DM Kathy Sunday April 3rd, 2005 10:59:29 PM
Mira and Arm slip into trances where they are (presumably) carried off to the Giggling Ghost--at least in spirit. Their bodies remain in the apartment. Evan lovingly does what he can to ensure Mira's comfortable transaition, then returns to where the other's are discussing Shadow's possible job offer.
Shadow explains the situation to his skeptical teammates. They get the pretty strong impression that this fellow, whoever he is, is very likely guilty of whatever he's charged with. On the other hand, if they can return what he stole they'd be making things right again. On the other other hand, persuading the Guard to release the theif may go against the grain.
And there's always the question of these "friends" of Shadow's. How trustworthy are they?
Uriel Sunday April 3rd, 2005 11:40:55 PM
Uriel looks hard at Shadow, and says, "Returning the property to the rightful owners is important but I don't want to be anyone's stooge, "Do you trust these friends?" the paladin asks somberly.
Evan Monday April 4th, 2005 5:45:57 AM
Evan listens to his friends discuss the possible job, having no input either way. In all honesty, his thoughts keep returning to Mira and Arm and the elves. In an effort to keep his imagination away from wild speculations, he carefully keeps his mind as blank as possible. He will follow along with what the group decides.
Kadaz Monday April 4th, 2005 6:12:09 AM
"Convincing the guards that someone is innocent may be beyond our power. But we can return any mislaid items and then do our best. Just to be clear Shadow, we will not offer any assurances for your guild member's future actions. Do you think this will be acceptable to your guild?"
Conner Monday April 4th, 2005 7:46:50 AM
"Agreed then, we'll return the goods to their owner, but let's keep our wits about us and make sure we're not being set up." Conner looks over to Shadow to see if he is in agreement.
Shadow Monday April 4th, 2005 8:39:19 AM
"Well my contact says that they will pay us for at least trying. I am not too sure we can convince the guards, but we can try. As far as the trustworthiness of my contacts, well they would be in serious trouble if we were trying to help out and things went awry." Shadow is glad and worried that his new companions are willing to do this for him. This will put him even better standing with the guild.
DM Kathy Tuesday April 5th, 2005 12:28:18 AM
The group is understandably reluctant, but agrees to at least look into the job further. Shadow returns to Grey and is given more details.
"The fellow's name is Bandren, and he's being held in the Guard post in the Hindquarter. He says he stashed the stuff in a greenhouse in the Druid Quarter."
Grey gives Shadow directions to the greenhouse, then adds, "Bandren says it's usually kept unlocked, and that he stashed the stuff in a bed of--well, he wasn't clear what, exactly. Bandren doesn't know from plants. One of the beds to the left as you enter through the main door. Buried a sack about eight inches into the soil."
Grey hands Shadow a small pouch, and adds, "There's more if you succeed." The pouch proves to contain 600 gold.
Wilfire Ironhouse Tuesday April 5th, 2005 2:11:37 AM
Wilfire accepts a job with whatever smith gives him a good vibe, and one who is willing to pay at least market value (OOC- as per PHB).
After that he considers Shadow's offer, and accepts it reluctantly. "Jus best not be a set up. If da guard hears bout us diggin for loot, dey may tink we took her."
With that though in mind Wilfire suggest smaking some type of contract with Shadow's contact. A signed letter that explains why the group is looking for treasure.
Uriel Tuesday April 5th, 2005 5:04:10 AM
Uriel laughs at Wilfire's suggestion. "A good idea my friend, but I doubt you would get any sort of contract with the thieves guild."
Uriel goes and gets his gear and weapons in preperation for any misunderstandings...
Evan Tuesday April 5th, 2005 5:49:18 AM
Evan prepares himself for the up coming job as well then stays close to Uriel as he is the only one who can clearly understand him at the moment. He silently suggests that the 600 gold be put with the platinum to be divided up when Mira and Arm return.
Kadaz Tuesday April 5th, 2005 6:11:06 AM
Kadaz thinks about how to retrieve the stolen items safely. "Here's one plan. Let's scout out this greenhouse first just so we're sure where it is. Then, Shadow and I, and one or 2 others, disguise ourselves as carters and make a delivery of fertilizer or plants to the greenhouse. While we're unloading the wagon Shadow can enter the greenhouse and retrieve the items. The rest of you will be nearby, ready to react in case something goes wrong."
"Any other plans come to mind?"
Shadow Tuesday April 5th, 2005 9:03:56 AM
Shadow returns to the group with the initial payment and the details. As the group discusses how they are going to handle this Shadow realizes that he is lucky to have become part of a group that does try to think before it acts (unlike many of the groups that he has worked with in the guild).
"I think Kadaz has a great idea and we should try and make it look like we really do have a reason for being near the greenhouse. Who would expect us to do this during the day, so that is an even better idea. As far as a contract, you would not get one that is for sure. Remember they want us to try and free Bandren without any reference to the guild."
Conner Tuesday April 5th, 2005 10:05:54 PM
"Fertilizer, right" repeats the fighter as he checks over the spikes on his shield, and then moves to inspect his sword. The tatooed man reflects back on their escapade in the dump, and thinks he detects a theme developing.
DM Kathy Wednesday April 6th, 2005 1:14:11 AM
You have a plan of sorts, but no contract. Grey will not put anything in writing, but offers Shadow his assurance that the deal is on the up-and-up--at least, on the Guild's end. "You're on your own with the Guard," he adds wryly.
You scout the area around the greenhouse, and find that it is on a quiet street with very little traffic--just the sort of place a thief might choose when trying to escape notice. Druids and other residents of the area pass by every now and again, but there are minutes at a stretch where there is nobody in sight.
You can obtain a wagon, peasants' clothing, and tools with very little trouble if you still want to put that plan into action.
Everybody who enters the greenhouse, please make a Spot check.
Evan d20+8=28 Wednesday April 6th, 2005 5:51:39 AM
Evan is beggining to think they should just buy a cart to keep considering how often it is used for disguises. He will volunteer to be one of the carters as it would seem natural for the.......handicapped guy to be day labor. Before they head out, he'll hide his two axes within the confines of the cart so that they will be in easy reach.
As they scout out the location, Evan keeps an eye out for any sign of a trap and the timing of the guard sweeps. (spot-28, nat 20)
Uriel d20+4=22 d20+4=9 d20+4=18 d20+4=16 Wednesday April 6th, 2005 6:02:26 AM
Uriel mentions Evan's practical idea to everyone and then decides to go for the 'wandering mercenary' look by leaving off the tabard and leaving the quarterstaff behind.
Uriel will be making spot checks outside not in, reminding those going inside to signal if there is any real trouble. Spot:22,9,18,16
Kadaz d20+1=16 d20+5=17 Wednesday April 6th, 2005 7:02:06 AM
Kadaz will drive the cart, with this flail hidden under the seat and dagger in his belt. At the greenhouse he will pick up a bag from the cart and carry it inside. There he scans the inside for trouble, then searches for the hidden goods. (spot 16)
Birdie tags along at his heels, also watching out for anything new. (spot 17)
Shadow d20+2=18 d20+2=22 Wednesday April 6th, 2005 8:25:52 AM
Shadow will pull out his peasant outfit and assume the disguise (Disguise=18). He will follow along with the plan and be part of the delivery people. When they get to the greenhouse he will approach the greenhouse looking like he is just walking up to make a delivery. He will slip into the greenhouse being very watchful (spot=22, nat. 20) of his surroundings. If he finds nothing he will go to the flowerbed and try and uncover the 'misplaced loot'. He will then move it to the cart to be hidden in it till they can return it to the guards.
Conner d20+3=11 d20+2=7 Thursday April 7th, 2005 12:16:45 AM
Having grown up the youngest soon of a tenant wine grower, Conner had seen his fair share of dirty jobs. Let the city dwellers dig in the dirt! He would keep watch with the paladin!
Spot=11 Listen=7
DM Kathy Thursday April 7th, 2005 1:31:27 AM
You don your disguises and head to the greenhouse. So far as you can tell, your ruse is holding up nicely. Nobody seems to be paying you any attention as you open the doors and move inside.
It's warm and humid in the greenhouse, and when you first step inside it feels as if it's going to be difficult to breathe. The place smells of greenery and herbs and turned earth. All around you, plants, shrubs, and even small trees stretch their leaves and branches upward toward the sun streaming in through the skylights overhead. It's like walking into a jungle.
You don't have an exact location for the loot--just that it's in one of the planting beds to the left of the door. You are about to start your search when Shadow notices something unusual. One of the vines appears to be moving, stretching out questing tendrils toward you. The movement is so slight he can't be sure he really saw it, but it puts all of his nerves on edge.
[Anyone wanting to identify the strange vine can make a Knowledge (nature) check.]
Wilfire Ironhouse Thursday April 7th, 2005 4:48:44 AM
Wilfire suggests that the group remain close, just in case. Otherwise he keeps his flail in hand and his eyes on alert.
Kadaz Thursday April 7th, 2005 5:47:01 AM
Kadaz peers closely and sees nothing moving. Wanting to get ths over with he moves to the first planter on the left and starts digging in the dirt.
Shadow d20+2=7 d20=10 Thursday April 7th, 2005 8:28:13 PM
Shadow says, "I just saw that plant move. Be careful." He hopes he is just jumpy, but will try and watch to see if it moves again. (Spot=7 Knowledge=10)
Conner d20+3=11 d20+2=7 Thursday April 7th, 2005 9:21:26 PM
Conner loiters near the cart, keeping an eye out for approaching guardsmen or any other potential trouble. [Listen=7, Spot=11]
Uriel Friday April 8th, 2005 12:44:55 AM
Uriel continues his lookout outside of the greenhouse.
DM Kathy Friday April 8th, 2005 2:42:46 AM
As the others remain on alert, Kadaz begins digging in the first planting bed. Shadow watches the vine closely, but doesn't see it move again. Maybe he imagined it?
After several minutes of digging, Kadaz is convinced that the loot is not in the first planter. Moving on to the next one means going closer to that vine Shadow thought he saw move.
Evan d20+4=5 d20+8=18 Friday April 8th, 2005 5:40:41 AM
Evan takes a moment to study the supposedly moving plant, but doesn't recognise it. Seeing that Kadaz needs to move closer to the plant, though, causes Evan to pull out one of his axes and move up beside Kadaz to provide protection. Evan keeps a sharp eye on the vine.
(Know nature-5, spot-18)
Kadaz Friday April 8th, 2005 6:28:35 AM
So that's why this job isn't going to be simple. Well, you have to earn your gold, nothing's free.
"Watch the plant" growls Kadaz. He moves to the next planter and starts digging, trusing the others to give him warning.
Mira Friday April 8th, 2005 7:23:12 AM
Mira stirs on her bed, and rubs her eyes. "We're home!" she calls out before she is even fully awake. Pulling herself to a sitting position, she lets her feet dangle over the edge of the bed for a while waiting for her mind to stop spinning. The sorcerer makes her way to the common room looking for the bard.
"Arm?" she calls tentatively into the quiet of the room.
Conner Friday April 8th, 2005 7:49:16 AM
The fighter continues scanning the area surrounding the greenhouse for trouble. He does his best to look the part of a farm-worker, not to difficult given his upbringing. He leans on the manure cart, apparently unconcerned about the odor of it's contents.
Shadow d20+2=17 Friday April 8th, 2005 11:19:31 PM
Shadow will continue to watch the vine that he thought moved. He is very concerned about the situation.
Wilfire Ironhouse Saturday April 9th, 2005 7:57:43 PM
"Yeh sur ya saw'er move?" Wilfire asked Shadow.
Wilfire ponders the situation for a moment and then decides the 'safe' thing to do is to cast a little magic.
OOC- Wilfire will cast enlarge and Bull's strength on himself, and then move up beside Kadaz. If the second plant "does nothing" after getting close to it, Wilfire will move on to another plant and touch it. He'll keep doing this until a plant "does something" or until his spells run out. (duration 3 minutes)
Uriel d20+4=10 d20+4=22 d20+4=15 Monday April 11th, 2005 12:06:26 AM
Uriel continues to keep a spot around the greenhouse. He will continue to stay in visual contact of Conner.
Spot:10,22,15
DM Kathy d20+7=17 d6+7=11 Monday April 11th, 2005 2:21:59 AM
Evan gives it some thought, but can't remember any moving plants that seem to fit this one's description. Neither he nor Shadow sees it move again.
Warily, Kadaz moves over to the next bed and begins to search. Wilfire moves up to support him. Unfortunately, neither one sees the plant move until it strikes. It lashes out at Kadaz with a tendril, trying to snatch the dwarf into a crushing grasp.
[Hit AC 17 for 11 damage. I assume that missed; I seem to remember K has a pretty high AC]
You can all see the plant clearly now, and it is definitely hostile.
Outside, Uriel and Conner do not see or hear anything out of the ordinary.
Meanwhile back at the apartment, Mira and Arm return from the strange meeting with much to think about. Their companions appear to have stepped out.
Evan (ac 17, hp 18) d20+4=14 d20+5=6 d8+3=7 Monday April 11th, 2005 5:55:55 AM
As Evan mhad been prepared for just such an attack, he strikes out with sword and axe, missing horribly with the axe. (hit ac 14, dam-7; missed ac 6)
Arm - home again Monday April 11th, 2005 5:59:15 AM
Arm awakes with a start...not only from Mira's call but also the events that have happened. Groggily, he sits up and responds, "Aye, I'm awake. Is the rest of the group out there? We REALLY need to talk to them.". He then proceeds to tell Mira of his overwhelming fears about the upcoming ritual, including his fears that HE may be responsible for ruining it by possibly harming or killing the Sleeper. "It is a VERY difficult decision...on one hand, this Sleeper may be the salvation of the Wold and I could be it's downfall, but on the other hand we were also warned to "beware the Sleeper", in which case I could end up SAVING the Wold...I honestly don't know which direction to turn to now.". Saying so, he puts his head into his hands, the ache in his head and neck getting worse.
Kadaz (AC 18, HP 44) d20+8=19 d4+4=7 Monday April 11th, 2005 7:09:33 AM
Kadaz jumps back and starts swearing. "By Domi's beard! A moving plant! Now we know why Shadow's friend couldn't retrieve the items."
Kadaz pulls a curved dagger (kukri) from his belt and slashes at the tendril. (hit AC19, 7 hp damage).
Birdie looks at the plant somewhat confused. Plants don't normally move and he's not sure what to do. It doesn't smell like a threat.
(OOC: Kadaz has his armor under his worker's robe but isn't carrying his shield or his axe.)
Shadow [AC 21/18 HP 20/20] d20+4=7 d6+1=7 Monday April 11th, 2005 10:59:25 AM
Shadow will try and help out his friends by striking at the offending plant (trying to stay as far away as possible, but still able to hit it). (To Hit=7 dmg=7)
Mira d20+2=11 Monday April 11th, 2005 8:32:05 PM
Mira sits down at the table opposite the bard and places her hands gently on his, guiding them away from his face, so that she can look at him. "Remember, the old fortune teller said whatever you decide, the outcome was already written. He said it wouldn't be your fault."
Mira looks into the half-elf's eyes, "you are good Arm. You couldn't knowingly do something bad, could you?"
Mira will look around (Spot=11) to see if the others have left any clues as to their whereabouts, however if there are none, she is prepared to sit with Arm and talk about the gathering at the Giggling Ghost.
Wilfire Ironhouse (AC 17, HP 24/35) d20+9=24 d10+10=17 Monday April 11th, 2005 9:48:31 PM
OOC- Wilfire's AC is 19, but he cast enlarge person before moving to the plant, so he gets a -2 to Dexterity and a -1 to AC, which gives him a 17 AC with the spell. Thus, he was hit.
OOC2- Enlarge person + Bull's Strength- large sized, +6 strength bonus. +10 grapple checks.
Wilfire shakes off the mighty blow, and counters with a flail attack of his own (Hits AC 25... I only gave myself a +9, but actually its a +10... for damage 17).
Conner d20+3=7 d20+2=10 Monday April 11th, 2005 11:10:20 PM
The burly fighter maintains his vigil outside of the greenhouse, oblivious to the altercation going on inside. Conner does his best to keep an eye on the street, but his concentration wanes under the hot sun and oppresive stench from the cart. [Spot=7, Listen=2]
Uriel d20+4=14 d20+4=14 Monday April 11th, 2005 11:30:58 PM
Uriel continues his vigil as well, nodding very slightly towards Conner. Spot:14 Listen:14
DM Kathy d20+7=12 Tuesday April 12th, 2005 2:25:52 AM
In the greenhouse...
Evan strikes at the suddenly mobile plant, but misses both times. Shadow also attacks and misses.
Kadaz, unhurt by the attack, pulls a knife and manages to take a pretty good-sized chunk out of it.
Wilfire lands a very solid blow, and the plant thrashes wildly--whether in pain or anger its hard to say. [OOC: The plant initially attacked Kadaz and not you, so you wouldn't have been hit anyway. :)]
The viny tendril lashes out again at Kadaz, but does not connect [hit AC 12].
Outside the greenhouse....
Conner and Uriel can now hear the sounds of a fight coming from inside.
Back at the apartment....
Arm is worried about making the right decision about the Sleeper. Mira can offer only her sympathy--nobody knows at this point what the right decision could be.
Mira looks around, but can find no clues as to the whereabouts of the rest of the group. Judging by the position of the sun in the sky, she and Arm were "out" for several hours.
Arm Tuesday April 12th, 2005 5:52:33 AM
Looking at Mira, his eyes full of tortured anguish, Arm says, "You are correct...I would knowingly do no evil...I only wish I knew if this "Sleeper" were good or evil..I'm beginning to think that it is not entirely on the side of "good"...perhaps the legends about it have glossed over the true nature of it and the people have forgotten. Also, I most certainly do not agree with the "not telling the other races part" of the meeting..we may be many, but we are not strong like the dwarves or plentiful like the humans. You and I BOTH know first-hand that there is strength in numbers, the more the better.".
Pausing for breath, then heaving a sigh, he continues, "I am also very concerned about how people will blame me for what is to happen, be it on the side of good OR evil. My chosen profession DEPENDS on my ability to play up to the public, and if everyone were to blame me for whatever is to happen, then I'd never earn even a copper at my performances...worse yet I may have stuff THROWN at me. Also, if I remain with this company, how many people do you think will be willing to hire us knowing that I am a part of it? I'm afraid, my dear, that my future at this point only seems dark and dismal.".
Evan (ac 17, hp 18) d20+4=21 d20+5=6 d8+3=11 Tuesday April 12th, 2005 6:27:29 AM
Evan gives a soft whistle of warning for those outside the greenhouse as he strikes out once again with sword and axe, again missing badly with the axe.
(sword hit ac 21, dam-11; axe missed ac 6)
Kadaz (AC 18, HP 44) d20+8=13 d4+4=7 Tuesday April 12th, 2005 7:12:33 AM
Kadaz swings again at the plant but as he is stepping backwards his blow is not as strong as the first one. (hit AC 13, damage 7).
Conner[AC=20, HP=32] Tuesday April 12th, 2005 7:44:56 AM
Conner slides his sword from beneath the seat of the cart and heads into the greenhouse as the sounds of combat reach his ears. He will move into position to attack the plants if at all possible. The tattooed fighter regrets leaving his shield behind but presses on anyway.
Uriel Tuesday April 12th, 2005 8:08:26 AM
Uriel is torn between keeping watch outside and moving into the greenhouse. He compromises by moving to the door and assessing the situation before deciding if he should stay outside or not.
Mira Tuesday April 12th, 2005 9:34:57 AM
Mira covers her mouth with her hand to hide a smile. So much angst! she thinks. Arms across the table, she keeps hold of the bard's two hands in her own. "I do not think that you can classify the natural world so easily, Arm. Nature, with all its phenomena is neither good nor evil.
As far as "other races" are concerned, well, it doesn't appear that we are a part of this or that the Sleeper would even hear us. A furrow creases the sorcerer's brow, and she continues, "some who are not elves but have a connection to the Wold spoke of sharing the dream or parts of it. I wonder that it isn't some inseparable quality of the elves that binds them to the natural world, and thus the Sleeper, that differentiates them from the rest of the noble races in this matter? It is good that so many are interested in the welfare and opinions of non-elves, but in the grand scheme of things, I wonder if it matters?"
Shadow [AC 21/18 HP 20/20] d20+4=20 d6+1=7 Tuesday April 12th, 2005 11:05:00 AM
Shadow recovers from his miss to once again attack the plant. (To hit=20, dmg=7)
Wilfire Ironhouse AC 17 (35/35) d20+10=13 Tuesday April 12th, 2005 2:06:33 PM
Wilfire puts everything he has behind his blow, but misses (OOC- at least I think a 13 is a miss).
DM Kathy Wednesday April 13th, 2005 2:19:04 AM
In the greenhouse...
Evan lands a solid blow with his sword, and Shadow also connects. Kadaz and Wilfire miss their attacks, but it doesn't seem to matter. The vine thrashes a few more times, then is still.
Of course, you still have no idea where this loot might be.
Outside the greenhouse...
Uriel listens intently, but the fight sounds seem to have stopped. Conner moves into the greenhouse to find his four companions with weapons drawn, staring down at a vine which they've apparently just hacked to bits.
In the apartment...
Arm seems to see his darkest fears becoming reality, but are things really as bleak as they seem? Mira tries to offer some words of insight.
Evan (ac 17, hp 18) d20+8=17 Wednesday April 13th, 2005 5:47:41 AM
Evan motions for Kadaz to continue his search, keeping an eye out for any more moving plants.
(spot-17)
Kadaz (AC 18, HP 44) Wednesday April 13th, 2005 7:02:12 AM
Kadaz puts his knife back into his belt and continues on to the 2nd planter on the left. He keeps a wary eye on the other plants in the greenhouse.
Conner Wednesday April 13th, 2005 7:47:16 AM
"Everything is in hand then?" the fighter shifts his curious gaze between the now shredded plant and each of his companions. "It sounded like trouble...I'll be outside if you need me..."
Conner returns to his post outside the greenhouse and continues his vigil. He keeps whatever thoughts he has about the strange behaviour of his companions to himself.
Arm Wednesday April 13th, 2005 8:52:15 AM
Arm smiles ruefully at Mira and says, "I do not know, my dear, I do not know. All I know is that I wish this whole afair was over and done with...only then will we know what to do, I fear. What say we head over to Samson's for a bite to eat while we wait for the others?".
Wilfire Ironhouse Wednesday April 13th, 2005 12:11:53 PM
Wilfire accompanies Kadaz to the next planter. If the plant is indeed a plant, he will move to the next planter and touch the plant with his hand. He'll move from plant to plant so long as his enlarge spell is in effect.
An Hour of Silence - DM Donna Wednesday April 13th, 2005 1:15:03 PM
This board will now observe an hour of silence in honor of Lynn Beck (and her husband Dave) who was taken away from The Wold before her time...
Good-bye Dave & Lynn Beck - DM Donna Wednesday April 13th, 2005 2:17:01 PM
The hour of silence is over now. Posting may resume. Thank you and let's all hope for the best for young Alex Beck.
Mira d20+4=14 Wednesday April 13th, 2005 11:28:18 PM
Mira nods in agreement and readies to leave for Samson's for some dinner. Before departing she leaves a brief note for Evan and the others, letting them know to go to the tavern.
Mira links arms with the bard and walks the short distance to Samson's in quiet reflection. Once inside she orders a simple meal and a glass of wine. Throughout the meal and afterwards she pays attention to the conversations around her, trying to pick up clues to the dream and the mood of the locals. [Gather info=14]
Uriel Wednesday April 13th, 2005 11:52:47 PM
Uriel goes back to his perimeter walk.
DM Kathy Thursday April 14th, 2005 2:20:25 AM
In the greenhouse...
Kadaz does not find anything buried in the second flowerbed, but luckily neither he nor his companions see any signs of foliage moving on its own.
Outside the greenhouse...
A woman in work clothes walks along the street, carrying a rake resting casually under one shoulder. She waves cheerfully to Uriel and Conner as she passes. It's the most exciting thing that's happened so far out there.
At Sampson's...
Mira and Arm sit down for a meal and a drink, continuing to mull over everything they heard in the meeting. Mira listens to conversations nearby, but doesn't hear anything specifically about the dream or the meeting. She does catch the words "Culverwood" and "Parnoth," but there's too much background noise to hear much more of the conversation.
Arm Thursday April 14th, 2005 5:54:38 AM
After eating a bit and drinking a bit more, Arm looks up at Mira and says, "SO....what would YOU do if you were in my situation? Would you agree to sing knowing what you know, or would you refuse, knowing that your not-singing COULD just make a difference?".
Kadaz Thursday April 14th, 2005 6:36:24 AM
Kadaz keeps searching the planters on the left. "Just how far in from the door could this guy have gotten before he buried his items? And was that moving plant here then?" he asks the others.
Evan (ac 17, hp 18) d20+8=17 d20+6=9 Thursday April 14th, 2005 6:43:26 AM
Evan moves to the planter that held the moving plant, keeping a close eye on it's remains. Caustiously, he collects a couple of the less damaged leaves as well as a bit of the stem so that he and Mira can do a little research on it so they will be better prepared the next time they encounter such a plant. He will then search the planter the moving plant was in
Evan Thursday April 14th, 2005 6:45:54 AM
(spot-17, search-9)
Conner d20-2=18 Thursday April 14th, 2005 7:53:02 AM
Conner smiles at the woman with the rake and does his best to look the part of a laborer. [Bluff=18]
Shadow d20+2=8 d20+8=28 Thursday April 14th, 2005 8:38:46 AM
"I am not sure, but was told that it was in a planter and on the left." Shadow says. He will continue to help search the planters on the left. (Spot=8 Search=28 nat.20)
Wilfire Ironhouse Thursday April 14th, 2005 1:54:00 PM
Wilfire follows Kadaz as he searches the next plant. If nothing is found Wilfire will move to a new plant.
Uriel Thursday April 14th, 2005 6:08:12 PM
Uriel nods and keeps his face neutral to the woman.
Mira d20+2=18 Thursday April 14th, 2005 7:42:31 PM
Laughing lightly, Mira reaches across the table and touches the half-elf lightly on the forearm. "You are the strangest bard I have ever met, Armathen. One who is worried about singing!" she says, adding, "if I were you, why, surely, I would join the song."
Withdrawing her hand the sorcerer takes a sip from her glass. "There are those who seem to fear the ascendance of nature or fair folk having some extra influence in the Wold, but I can see no harm in it. I did like what that older fellow had to say about opening the pathways to healing and knowledge."
Mira takes another sip from her glass. Her ears prick up when someone mentions the name of the green dragon and she listens more carefully. (Listen=18)
Arm Friday April 15th, 2005 6:00:20 AM
Arm grimaces a bit at Mira's attempt at levity, "It's not that I'm afraid of singing...the problem lies in whether or not I should sing THIS song, something that could bring grief, fear, and death to many people. Always remember what was told to us, 'Beware the Sleeper'.". Seeing that Mira's thoughts are elsewhere, he lapses into silence so that she may concentrate on whatever she needs to, and stares moodily into his drink.
DM Kathy Friday April 15th, 2005 9:46:13 AM
In the greenhouse....
You keep looking, and eventually find the small sack buried in the third planter.
With all of the foliage in here, it's hard to tell which planter the attacking plant was in--if it was in one at all.
Outside the greenhouse...
The woman continues on her way, clearly not suspicious that anything might be going on. The street is quiet after that.
At Sampson's...
Mira and Arm continue to talk. Mira strains to overhear the conversation about the Culverwood...something about innocent travelers being trapped into slavery to Parnoth.
Shadow Friday April 15th, 2005 10:03:16 AM
Shadow gives a sigh of relief as the group finally finds the sack. "We should move out of here and go back and change before approaching the guards." Shadow says as he starts for the door.
Evan Friday April 15th, 2005 4:03:43 PM
Evan nods in agreement, and heads out, intending on heading back to the flat. Now that they have found their target, his thoughts wander back to Mira and the dream journey she is on. A growing urgency builds witin him, lending speed to his steps.
Kadaz (AC 18, HP 44) Friday April 15th, 2005 5:24:35 PM
Kadaz is unnerved by the thought of more animated plants. "Let's get out of here. Enough excitement for one day."
Wilfire Ironhouse Friday April 15th, 2005 9:40:44 PM
"Sometin smells fishie ta me" Wilfire suggested. "Be at da ready."
Wilfire kept a careful eye out when he left the greenhouse. He had a sneaking suspicion that there was more to this job than fighting a plant... he wanted to get back to the safety of home quickly and quietly.
Mira d20+5=24 d20+4=17 Saturday April 16th, 2005 9:11:12 AM
Mira makes eye contact with the bard, putting a finger to her lips as she tries to catch strains of the conversation about troubles in the Culverwood.
Signaling Arm to follow her, Mira approaches the group she thinks she heard talking about the green dragon. "Excuse me, but did I hear you say there were some troubles in the Culverwood? Something about Parnoth harassing travellers?" The sorcerer reaches nervously for the silver and jade pendant at her neck as she awaits the response.
Diplomacy=24 Gather Information=17
Uriel d20+4=18 d20+4=21 d20+4=14 Sunday April 17th, 2005 11:06:46 PM
Once the group exits the greenhouse, he will go get back on his horse and shadow the group, looking for trouble.
Spot:18,21,14
DM Kathy Monday April 18th, 2005 1:10:49 AM
The group at the greenhouse retrieves the sack and heads back to the apartment. They are alert for any signs of trouble--in fact, their nerves are a little on edge.
On the way home, depending on your point of view, either nothing is suspicious or everything is suspicious. Nothing stands out, however.
At Sampson's the group at the next table looks up, a little starteled, when Mira addresses them. They exchange glances, then one of the men replies, "That's right miss. I was talking to a fellow the other day who heard from a traveling merchant with a brother that lives near the Culverwood, and he says Parnoth is enslaving anybody who travels near the place. So if you've any plans to travel that way, Miss, I'd cancel them if I were you. You don't want to be slave to a dragon." The others at the table nod with little murmurs of agreement.
Arm Monday April 18th, 2005 6:12:08 AM
Arm nudges Mira and motions to head outside..needing to speak with her about what the stranger just said.
Mira Monday April 18th, 2005 7:42:57 AM
Mira thanks the men with a nod of her head and a grim smile. "Thank you very much for the information. I will take heed of you advice," she says. The sorcerer then follows her companion and exits the tavern. In a low voice she says, "shall we return to the apartment? The others might be back by now."
As an afterthought she adds, "there were those at the assembly who spoke of a green dragon, Parnoth by name. From their expressions I gather he is no friend of the elves."
Wilfire Ironhouse Monday April 18th, 2005 1:19:58 PM
Wilfire sticks close to the group.
OOC- Flying from Seoul to Toronto. Won't be posting for a few days. All the best.
Kadaz Monday April 18th, 2005 4:12:56 PM
Kadaz watches the city as they return to their home, trying to spot trouble before it becomes a problem. He makes a wide berth around any vegetation.
Shadow Monday April 18th, 2005 4:47:15 PM
As the group returns to the apartment, Shadow keeps an eye out for anything out of the ordinary. (since he has experiencw with this he does feel like they made it back okay)
"We need to discuss how we are going to return this to the guards without them pinning it on us." He says to the group hopefully.
Conner Monday April 18th, 2005 7:08:47 PM
"Why don't we just hand it over to the guard post and say that we received an anonymous tip that the stuff was there and that the city guard might have a reward posted?" Conner knows his plan is simple, but why get complicated if you don't have to.
Uriel Monday April 18th, 2005 11:52:35 PM
Uriel listens and nods.
"How will that help Shadow's friend though?" not sure how that will show him any more innocent.
DM Kathy Tuesday April 19th, 2005 1:24:57 AM
Conner, Evan, Kadaz, Shadow, and Wilfire return to the apartment. Mira and Arm are gone, having left a note that they are at Sampson's. It would seem the "meeting" is over.
You begin discussing the best tactics. How best to return the swag to the Guard and get the rogue out of trouble?
Mira and Arm leave Sampson's, having heard an interesting tidbit of information. Does it have anything to do with the Dream?
They return to the apartment and find the other six already there.
Arm Tuesday April 19th, 2005 5:49:08 AM
On the way back to the apartment, Arm listens to Mira and nods in agreement, "Aye, they DID mention Parnoth at the meeting, and you are correct about it not being a friend to the elves. The reason why I pulled you out so quickly was that I am anxious to get back to see if the rest of us have returned. We need to let them know what has transpired at the meeting, and afterward I need to seek out Tal to ask him his thoughts on the matter...he was oddly silent during the meeting, and I'd like to know what he thinks.".
Once they arrive back home, he greets the rest of the group and begins to tell them about the meeting, as well has his fears and concerns.
Kadaz Tuesday April 19th, 2005 6:04:28 AM
Kadaz looks at the found bag, sitting on the table. "I really do wonder what is in there to be worth hiring us to retrieve it. But I think I'd prefer not to know."
Evan Tuesday April 19th, 2005 6:13:57 AM
Evan begins to relax once he sees Mira is safe. Joining her, he waits to hear of the dream meeting she and Arm attended. For now, he is able to quell the odd feelings of disquiet that grow within himself when he sees Arm and Mira together.
Conner Tuesday April 19th, 2005 7:50:54 AM
"Guardsman you are too honorable. I think we should look inside and see just what it is that can buy the freedom of a thief. It may determine how we handle the next part of the mission." Conner reaches for the bag and unless warned otherwise, spills it's contents onto the table.
Shadow Tuesday April 19th, 2005 9:58:36 AM
He is very concerned with how the group is going to play this out. He worries for the thief, but more so for himself and his companions. He is about to say something to Conner about opening the bag, but hesitates and is too late. He will look on in interest as the contents of the bag spill out onto the table.
(OOC: Arm and Mira you need to fill us in about the specifics of the meeting of the elves. Some of us did not get a chance to look over the GG posts, so we have no real idea what took place.)
Uriel Wednesday April 20th, 2005 1:56:12 AM
Uriel watches the bag come open.
DM Kathy Wednesday April 20th, 2005 1:57:07 AM
Conner opens the sack and pours it out. A small cache of jewelry lies gleaming on the table. You see a pearl ring, a faceted pendant, a cameo brooch, a fine silver chain, glittering earbobs, and other pieces.
Arm and Mira return and tell of the meeting that took place. Many elves of the Wold were there, including three renowned scholars. The scholars spoke of a prophecy, and of a King who, when awakened, would restore Nature's rightful place. A convergence of the planets is very near, and the scholars believe that, when the heavens align, the collective will of the elves could awaken the Sleeper.
But there are still questions: who, exactly, is this "Sleeper," and what does he intend? Is it better for the elves to solve their own problems than to call upon this unknown help?
There was some debate, and in the end it was left to individual elves (and half-elves) to decide whether to join in the Awakening Song.
[OOC: that's the gist of it. People who are curious for details can still read the text of the meeting in the Archives section of the Giggling Ghost board.]
Arm Wednesday April 20th, 2005 5:59:46 AM
Arm explains a bit more of the meeting, "It seems that several of us do NOT want to awaken this "Sleeper", myself included. Knowing what we know regarding the prophecy of "beware the sleeper" as well as my involvement in causing great harm and everyone blaming ME for it, I would really rather avoid the whole thing and just not participate at all.". If no one has any input on the matter, he will excuse himself and go seek out Tal at the institute.
Evan d20+8=24 Wednesday April 20th, 2005 7:00:34 AM
(tsk, I was looking forward to their explanation. As a student of human behavior, I was curious to see what Mira and Arm's impressions of what occured there were. After all, these impressions could color how the rest of the group reacts. And, as we all know, everything changes in the translation :)
Evan's eyes widen slightly as swag hits the table. He suddenly has a very bad feeling about the job they did and rises, moving to a window to look out to see if he can spy anything unusual going on outside. (spot-24)
Conner Wednesday April 20th, 2005 7:51:40 AM
Conner's eys widen as the treasure spills onto the table. This looks to be far more wealth than he has run across in his short time on the Wold.
"Well, it looks normal enough" he says hesitantly and pokes at the silver chain with a thick finger. "Can anyone tell if it's magic?"
Shadow Wednesday April 20th, 2005 9:49:31 AM
Seeing the spectacular display of jewelry, Shadow realizes why some of his kind live off of others welfare. He realizes that this is why he is not involved with most of the people in his guild. "I am not sure how, but we need to determine quickly how to return this and still try and get the guild member off." Shadow says to the group.
He looks hopefully to the rest of his new companions.
Mira Wednesday April 20th, 2005 11:04:22 AM
Mira takes Evan aside, and in low tones elaborates on her impression of the meeting. She describes some of the adventurer's who were present, reminding Evan that he had met some during the winter solstice party. She describes as best she can others who she had never met before, who had made their presence known by voicing there opinions. "Valdor was there," she says, a crease furrowing her forehead, "and he spoke against waking the Sleeper. I fear he has influenced many, and they will follow his lead without question."
Mira will outline the persuasive benefits to restoring natural order, and voice her opinion that, "the preponderance of evidence does not persuade me that bringing back this elven hero is a bad thing."
Lowering her voice even further, and punctuating her words with the hand gestures of sign language, she adds, "The scholars believe that it is a prophecy, and there is no real choice in the matter. Nothing can stop the planets and the Sleeper will wake. If Arm, and the elves withdraw their support, I fear it will be their undoing. Arm will experience the censure he so hopes to avoid."
The sorcerer watches as the bard slips out of the apartment, and heaves a heavy sigh. "Poor Arm."
(OOC: Very sorry for the missed post. I could have sworn...now where did I put it?)
Kadaz Wednesday April 20th, 2005 5:07:10 PM
Kadaz grins at the sight of the jewelry on the table. "Well, let's get that back to the guard so they can return it to the owner. I'm willing to go now. Anyone else? Preferably someone who can talk pretty."
Uriel Thursday April 21st, 2005 12:26:33 AM
Uriel will go to the guardhouse with the others.
DM Kathy Thursday April 21st, 2005 2:50:59 AM
It's the oddest thing. One minute you are sitting in the apartment, discussing the meeting and how best to return the stolen loot, and the next minute, you can all hear the faintest trace of music. It seems to come from all directions at once, but there is no visible source for the sound.
Arm can clearly hear that the music is made of several voices chanting or singing as one. He feels a strong compulsion to enter that part of his mind that is still connected to the other elves of the Wold.
Anyone else who succeeds at at DC 15 Listen check can also hear the voices. They are singing:
Kinsfolk, arise The Sleeper awaits To sleep or awaken What will be his fate?
We now must decide Let each speak their word Come, elves of the Wold Let your voices be heard.
[Yes, it's terrible. It's quarter to midnight; what do you want? :)]
The intent of the instructions are clear to Arm. The discussions and debates are over, and now every elf must vote, yes or no, to awaken the Sleeper.
Eva n d20+8=11 d20+8=28 Thursday April 21st, 2005 5:41:23 AM
As Evan stands at the window, gazing outside to see if anyone is approaching unexpectatly, listeing to Mira's explanation of the dream meeting, he begins to hear fiant sounds of song. He looks towards Sampson's a little surprised as very rarely does the place get so rowdy as to be heard at the flat. While he's certain there are words within the music, he canna make out anything
(listen-11, spot-28 nat 20)
Kadaz d20+1=11 d20+1=20 Thursday April 21st, 2005 7:12:43 AM
Kadaz starts gathering the stolen items up into the bag. He picks up a piece or two to examine mor closely but quickly has everything together. Due to the clinking of the gems and his concentrating on not breaking anything he hears nothing.
On the other hand Birdie clearly hears voices coming from everywhere and runs around the room, yipping, trying to find their source. (listen 20)
Uriel d20+4=9 Thursday April 21st, 2005 7:59:24 AM
Uriel in his preperations for heading to the guard house does not hear the voices.
Shadow d20+3=16 Thursday April 21st, 2005 1:32:53 PM
Shadow hears the voice, and is unsure of what it really means. Seeing the look on Arm's face, he is fairly sure that Arm can hear it and is not wanting to.
Shadow will wait to see what the others do.
Arm Thursday April 21st, 2005 2:34:02 PM
Arm pauses in mid-step, hearing the song in his head. "How can such a simple decision be so hard to make?" he wonders. Leaning against a nearby building, he gathers his strength and resolve, and thinks:
Yes I am kinfolk, that much is true, In some ways alike, but not always like you, But as sure am I standing here today, I'm afraid that my answer can only be "nay".
Realizing that it's pointless to seek out Tal now, Arm goes back to the flat, where he catches Mira's eye, shakes his head negatively, and goes to his room to contemplate what he has done.
Wilfire Ironhouse d20+3=10 Thursday April 21st, 2005 4:45:52 PM
Wilfire's too interested in the loot to notice the singing.
Mira d20+2=15 d20+8=23 d20+4=13 d20+9=27 Thursday April 21st, 2005 5:54:03 PM
Standing with Evan near the window, she hears an ethereal melody. (Listen=15) It must be the elven vote to wake the Sleeper! The dream-song! Where is Arm? she thinks.
Mira closes her eyes and strains to hear the words. She concentrates what magical energies she has on discerning the outcome. (Knowledge Arcana=15, Gather Info=13, Concentration=27)).
Mira opens her eyes at the sound of the door opening. The sorcerer can read Arm's response on his face, and she gets a sick feeling in her stomache as she watches the bard disappear into his room.
Conner d20+2=14 Thursday April 21st, 2005 9:26:22 PM
Conner shrugs his shoulders as the treasure is put away without the benefit of an examination by the magic users in the party. "So what do we tell the guard? That we were tipped off anonymously?" Conner can't think why that would lessen the punishment for theivery, but he doesn't have a better idea.
DM Kathy Friday April 22nd, 2005 2:33:26 AM
Arm joins the elf song just long enough to cast a "no" vote, then exits the growing gathering as best as he can.
Sitting nearby, Shadow and Mira can "hear" the voices raised in song, but very little of the substance of it gets through. They seems to hear more "yes" votes than "no" votes, but they can't be sure.
Meanwhile, Kadaz places the jewelry back in the sack, and the group prepares to depart for the Guard post. They don't have a specific plan, but are anxious to get the job done.
[There will be yet another special Wold-wide post tomorrow night--unless this one has been postponed, too.]
Evan Friday April 22nd, 2005 5:44:50 AM
Evan watches the interaction between Arm and Mira, curious by the sad expressions of both and cannot help but wonder what just happened.
But of a more immediate concern is the loot that needs to be returned. He turns to the others and signs, Give me the bag. I'll ride by the guard shack and toss it onto the step. That way, we do not need to make any explainations at all.
Arm Friday April 22nd, 2005 6:05:06 AM
Unless someone comes "a-knocking", Arm remains in his room, brooding about his decision and realizing that even if he voted "yes", he wouldn't feel any better about it than he does now. He resolves to lay on his bunk and watch the patterns on the inside of his eyelids, hoping to find an answer there but knowing that he won't.
Shadow d20+7=17 d20+2=3 Friday April 22nd, 2005 10:42:00 AM
Shadow is a little concerned with dropping the stuff off, but will not counterdict the group. If that is what they do, he will find a place that he can watch the guard post to make sure the guards get the bag. (Hide=17 Spot=3 nat. 1 - so what ever he sees it might be a mistake)
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