Setting forth (DMJK) Friday July 7th, 2006 12:49:48 PM
The group heads out of the city without much fuss or fanfare and heads north across the Plateau. The journey to Hoomwix is quick and uneventful save for "hellos" from the occasional traveler.
Hoomwix itself is a fairly small town. There's not much farming on the top plateau, and Plateau City dominates trade. So, the only reason for the existence of the town is the old Teucri lift that lowers travelers down to the lower plateaus.
There's a small collection of buildings offering the typical services that travellers need, notably food and lodging for both man and horse.
It's early afternoon by the time you arrive in town, and it looks like the line for the lift formed just before breakfast. The lifts can hold quite a few travellers at one time, but there are only two. And a round trip on the lift takes some 30 minutes -- 15 minutes down and 15 minutes back up.
There's a booth near the lifts selling tickets down. They're 5 silver each. A helpful halfling siting in the booth advises that there are about 8 lift loads ahead of your group, so you have about a two hour wait.
A teenage boy offers to hold your place in line for 2 silver per hour and suggests that the Red Stallion would be a quality establishment to spend the intervening two hours.
Additionally, you notice an old, wizardly looking man sitting in a chair near the edge of the cliffs some 60 feet or so away from the lift loading area. He seems to be staring at the group in an attempt to get someone's attention, but he doesn't go to enough of an effort to wave his arms or call you over.
Draax Saturday July 8th, 2006 4:37:05 AM
Draax pays for his lift ticket and then gives the kid a silver piece to hold their place. "Hold our place until our turn and I will add a gold to that silver."
Seeing the old guy trying to get their attention, Draax decides to see what the guy wants. "I am going to see why this guy is showing so much interest in us."
When he gets to the old man he asks, "Do we know you or are you staring at us for another reason?"
Arien Sunday July 9th, 2006 2:32:44 AM
Arien also pays for his lift ticket, then seeing Draax approach the old man, Arien follows.
Monthor Sunday July 9th, 2006 9:56:26 AM
Monthor pays and then hangs back to see what happens between Draax and the old man.
Feng Monday July 10th, 2006 1:45:24 AM
Feng hands the boy the requested silver and starts for the inn. When the others are not so quick to follow he stops and looks back.
Phil (DMJK) Monday July 10th, 2006 9:35:35 AM
The old man stares at Draax for a second and says, "All you young adventurers are rude and impolite. Wasn't like that in my day. We would have said, 'Greetings sir, how might we be of assisstance to you this fine morning.' But with all of you, it's 'What daya want?' In any case, if you'd be so kind as to allow me the opportunity to introduce myself without slitting my throat, I'm Phil, enterprising wizard. For a paltry 4 gold each, I'll cast magic that'll let you fly to the bottom with no waiting in line... no horses though. Scares them something terrible."
Draax Monday July 10th, 2006 6:50:16 PM
Draax laughs and then bows to the old man, "My apologies, you are correct. I sometime forget my manners in this dangerous wold. I hope you do not take this next comment as being ill-mannered, but since if we agree to your proposal we will be putting our lives in your hands. How safe is it?"
Draax waits for the man to answer before saying, "If everyone agrees I have no problem with it, but I do not want to fly down and then wait a few hours for the ones that take the lift to arrive."
Monthor Monday July 10th, 2006 9:26:24 PM
:: The dwarf walks up and joins the conversation. ::
" Or me could use me mammie's boots and fly down meself?"
Feng Tuesday July 11th, 2006 10:16:59 AM
"Its a long way down Monthor. Wouldn't want your boots to wear off in mid plummet." Feng says as he digs 4 gold out of his pouch.
Phil (DMJK) Tuesday July 11th, 2006 12:06:02 PM
"The fly spell should give you plenty of time to get to the bottom and then some, but if you fly around too long, the spell will wear off, and you'll fall. But, it's at least as safe as riding on those scary looking lifts. Anything that lets you fly to the bottom should work, so you can use his boots if you want... and if you're one of those dwarfs that hates spells and wizards, then do whatever makes you feel comfortable. I never go a day without casting all my memorized fly spells, so if any of you want to fly yourself down, that's fine by me. I've even seen a few yahoos jump off and hope they cast featherfall at the right time. It's a fine idea as long as you don't cast too early or as long as the speed of the fall doesn't scare the spell right out of you." Phil laughs and arcs his hand through the air in a manner suggestive of someone jumping off a cliff and falling. Then he claps his hands together in a way that ensures the word "splat" comes to mind.
"By the way, I'm a wealth of information. If you need to know something, ask old Phil. Before you ask me anythinig, just remember, Phil likes gold coins, and Phil likes cold ale. But, Phil hates goblins, liars, and cheats... not very fond of dragons either, especially blue ones."
Draax Tuesday July 11th, 2006 6:21:58 PM
Watching Feng pull out his gold, Draax decides to go for it too. He checks to ensure his Ring of Feather Fall is still on his finger, just in case. "Sure, I guess at least two of us are going to take you up on your offer. I will be back in few seconds; just want to let the young man know that he no longer needs to hold a spot for me."
Draax finds his placeholder and puts a gold piece in the lad's hands. "Thanks for holding the spot, but I no longer need it, but he is the gold I promised you anyway."
Returning to the old man, Draax produces the required 4 gold. He cannot think of anything to ask the old man, so he just gives Phil the 4 gold and waits for the spell. "OK, I guess I am ready when you are."
Tratain Tuesday July 11th, 2006 11:31:35 PM
Tratain walks over to the old man and listens to the conversation. Tratain describes the place the group is going to the old man and asks if he knows the place, how to get there, if there is anything of note in the area. Tratain will give him 20 gold for his answers.
Monthor Wednesday July 12th, 2006 7:45:29 AM
The dwarf waits for the others to talk to the old man and says nothing for now... except.
" Cold ale and dead goblins. Sounds like a good night out on the town to me. "
Arien Thursday July 13th, 2006 1:30:04 AM
Arien nods in understanding about the spells the mage proposes to cast for them, had Arien had enough spells memorized to cast them on the party that would have been an option he would have put forth. When the old man mentions being a wealth of information Arien asks, "Well Phil if you could tell us of any odd going ons here about or in the near area that you might have heard about I can make sure you'll have enough cold ale today to swim in."
Phil and... (DMJK) Thursday July 13th, 2006 12:05:18 PM
Phil stares hard at Monthor for a moment and then laughs, "I always like dwarves. Always funny when they don't mean to be."
As for your other questions, "There's certainly a waterfall, and there are trees around it. Whether or not one of them is the tree that you're looking for, I couldn't say. I might could tell you if I saw a picture, but unless it's unusual looking one tree looks pretty much like another to me. Now, if I knew what was special about the tree, I might could help more. Tree of life, magic wood, home of a bixie queen, that sort of thing. Those are the sorts of things I know about trees. As for where it is, you can't miss it. There's only one giant waterfall around here. I'm sure you can hear it. It's only about 100 yards past the lift." He points in the appropriate direction.
Then he turns to Arien and laughs, "I don't swim in ale, I like to drink a pint or two when I relax. I must look a sorry sight if you think I'm such a hopeless drunk. Plus, wizards shouldn't ever drink too much. Did you ever hear about Mad Mage Cwenlis? Ho boy, if you ever wanted a reason not to cast spells when you're drunk, he's a good example. Now for strange goings on, this is more of a "travel through" town. There's not anybody odd in town right now, but weird suspicious characters travel through all the time. There was a group of about 30 halflings that came through this morning. I thought THAT was pretty odd. They headed toward Plateau City four or five hours ago. While they were here, they made more noise than an ogre in a whore house, and I imagine they pilfered the pockets of everyone in town. As for things near the area that are odd, not much unusual up top, but the next plateau down is generally wild and dangerous. The Blackheart Preserve is right at the base of the plateau. The Gnowsy Vineyards are down there too, and it's generally pretty safe right around the base of the plateau, but as you head farther north, the preserve gets pretty wild. All manner of creatures in the preserve, but most of them aren't the treasure hording kind and probably wouldn't intrest you lot unless you just want to see what a giant centipede looks like or something. I think the most interesting place on the Second Plateau is the Dragonridge Hills. Always some bandit group hiding out there, and I know for a fact that a sapphire dragon lives somewhere in the northwestern part. I think his lair is in the Faces of Fate, but it could just as easily be in the Dragonridge. I wouldn't recommend fighting him. He's an accomplished sorceror, make that an accomplished dragon sorceror. But, he's worth talking to, and he sometimes gives his trinkets away to adventurers that he takes a liking too. His name is Patrark. He's also called the Patriarch."
While the old man is talking, Draax is telling his place holder that he won't be returning. As he's about to return, two horsemen ride up. Their clothes and mounts are exquisite. They clearly have money and may in fact be nobles. Rather than waiting at the rear of the line, they begin riding their horses to the front, threatening to trample the riffraff in their way. They wear swords but not armor, but most of the people in this line are peasants or farmers, and they scatter like flies to allow the horsemen to make their way to the front of the line.
:: Monthor rushes to position himself in front of the two 'nobles'. The burly dwarf crosses his arms in front of his chest. ::
{ This be going to be fun me boys. }
ooc> Monthor will move to block their paths and try to block them. If they try to move aroud him, he will use his strenth and dexterity to grab the horses' rains, yank down, and stop them.
Draax Thursday July 13th, 2006 11:36:11 PM
Draax watches the two horsemen come riding in his direction. When he sees that they plan to keep riding no matter who is in their way; Draax locates the young placeholder and guides the young boy out of their path. Draax planned to move slow enough to just get out of the men's way by only inches to spare, to let the men know that getting out of the way was his choice and not by intimidation. All that planning when out the window when Draax sees Monthor step in front of the horses.
Seeing Monthor doing his Hercules impression, Draax takes the moment to make sure that all the peasants and farmers are out of the way before turning his attention back to the mighty Monthor and the horsemen.
Tratain Friday July 14th, 2006 7:28:51 AM
Tratain makes his way towords Monthor, he stands and watches what happens. He will let Monthor Make his point before stepping in to calm everyone down and avoid a larger confrontation.
Ruffian (DMJK) Friday July 14th, 2006 11:01:40 AM
The horsemen stop in front of Monthor, and the one on the right says, "Ruffian, please be so kind as to step out of the way. We don't have time for your foolish dwarven nonsense." The words are polite, but the man on the left has moved his hand to his sword handle.
Draax has his eyes to the crowd and is able to get most of the people in the general vicinity out of the way, but... Highlight to display spoiler: {the combined press of Monthor and horsemen has disrupted the line and the front has moved closer to the cliff edge. Things are fine for now, but if a melee breaks out and people panic to get out of the way of swinging swords, someone could potentiall go over the edge. And with the bulk of the crowd and the horses between himself and the edge, Draax couldn't really get there quickly without shoving through and taking the risk of pushing the crowd even closer to the edge.}
Phil stands to his feet but doesn't otherwise involve himself.
[Draax can read the spoiler automatically. Monthor can't read it as he is otherwise engaged. Everyone else can read it with a spot check dc15.]
Draax Friday July 14th, 2006 8:27:00 PM
Seeing the situation Draax calls to Monthor, "HEY MONTHOR! Let it go for now, we do not want any of the bystander to get hurt or pushed off the ledge by accident. If you have a problem with the gentleman, WE (emphasize the word we) can handle it at the bottom. Maybe these gentlemen have a legitimate reason for pushing their way to the front of the line without any consideration for those that came before them, other than being impolite. We should give them the benefit of the doubt."
Draax waits to see how this plays out. People that arrogant are usually that way for a reason and he does not want to get on the bad side of anyone in power for killing their friend or relative.
Feng Saturday July 15th, 2006 12:33:47 PM
Seeing the disturbance Feng turns and walks toward Monthor and the two nobles. There are way too many people around for a fight and if blood is drawn surely the watch will arrest them and let the nobles go.
Arien Saturday July 15th, 2006 9:17:15 PM
Arien watches the burgeoning confrontation for the moment without interfering. Should the quarrel at any moment actually look like it could lead to violence Arien will try to stop that by offering to pay for having Phil cast Fly on the pair and their mounts.
Tratain Monday July 17th, 2006 5:33:12 AM
Tratain says "Aye Monthor Let it go for now." He turns to the Nobles and says "You should be careful where you steer your horses, if you should hit one of the people here a surley Dwarf will be the least of your worries. Have a good day." Tratain walks back towords the old Magician
Monthor Monday July 17th, 2006 5:59:43 AM
The dwarf looks at the speaking noble but addresses the other one.
" Draw that sword human and me will stick it up where the sun don't shine. "
" And ye..."
:: Adressing the first man now. ::
" Ye touch one of these good people waiting in line and me will stick your HORSE where the sun don't shine. Ye get me? "
Monthor sup. Monday July 17th, 2006 6:01:10 AM
ooc> To move things along. If the 'nobles' don't over threaten Monthor with their response, he will move out of their way and step to where Tratain is.
Belated Guards (DMJK) Monday July 17th, 2006 11:17:58 AM
As the party moves into position, five town guards arrive belatedly on the scene. Judging by such things as posture and the way the equipment is worn, only one of them appears to be competent.
They form up alongside the horsemen, and the competent one asks, "Is there any trouble milord Duke?"
The horseman who had already been speaking responds, "I imagine this dwarf was just leaving, Captain Klee. I believe that large horses simply make him feel inadequate, but if he causes any further disruptions, feel free to stick him where the sun doesn't shine, in other words jail."
Then he looks to Monthor, "If you care for a proper duel rather than a street brawl Master Dwarf, feel free to visit my castle. Just inform the gatekeeper that you're the Ill-Mannered Dwarf of Hoomwix, and you'll be admitted promptly. Be certain to mention Hoomwix as there a variety of ill-mannered dwarves who have received similar invitations. I would be delighted to have you accept the invitation, and I hope you won't prove to be so cowardly as to refuse my hospitatlity like most of the others."
Then the two horsemen urge their mounts to continue and move to the front of the line. Everyone is quick to get out of their way.
The silent one winks at Monthor as they go.
Captain Klee addresses Monthor, "I hope I won't need to be issuing a warrant for your arrest, Master Dwarf."
Sensing the excitement is over, the crowd begins to settle back into line, and Phil sits back down. However, Monthor is pretty sure that he was just called a coward.
Monthor Monday July 17th, 2006 12:53:18 PM
[Previously]
Then he looks to Monthor, "If you care for a proper duel rather than a street brawl Master Dwarf, feel free to visit my castle. Just inform the gatekeeper that you're the Ill-Mannered Dwarf of Hoomwix, and you'll be admitted promptly. Be certain to mention Hoomwix as there a variety of ill-mannered dwarves who have received similar invitations. I would be delighted to have you accept the invitation, and I hope you won't prove to be so cowardly as to refuse my hospitatlity like most of the others."
[Monthor]
" Oh don't worry me lad, me will gladely accept your hospitality. Ye can bet on it. Me will see ye soon enough Dooky. Yes me will.. and by the by.. Me name is Monthor. Monthor of the Axe Head Clan. Monthor of the Windhorn Hamleteers."
The silent one winks at Monthor as they go.
[Monthor]
:: Monthor smiles back the warrior. Acknowledging that the man was doing his job protecting Dooky.
Captain Klee addresses Monthor, "I hope I won't need to be issuing a warrant for your arrest, Master Dwarf."
[Monthor]
" Nah. I'll visit Dooky and spank some manners in him later. By the way, where can me fine Dooky's castle? "
Draax Monday July 17th, 2006 11:39:32 PM
Draax relaxes when he sees that Monthor is not going to take on the Duke and the town guards. He frowns when the Duke offers Monthor the opportunity for a proper duel. Their lives would have been a lot easier if the Duke could have just let it be. When Monthor ask for directions to the Duke's castle, Draax just shakes his head, "I knew those horsemen were going to be trouble."
Tratain Monday July 17th, 2006 11:52:26 PM
Tratain watches the Horsemen go. Just because he was born a Duke doesn't give him the right to push these people around.
Joe - ADM Posting Report Monday July 17th, 2006 11:57:48 PM
Player - MTWRF DM - xxoxx
ADM reports will be posted on the boards now, Try and keep the posting up, we want to post at least 4 days a week, 5 would be awesome.
Information Broker (DMJK) Tuesday July 18th, 2006 11:31:25 AM
Captain Klee nods at Monthor, "Very well, try not to land yourself into too much trouble. Unfortunately, I'm not an information broker nor a guide, but I'm certain you can find someone who will provide you with whatever gossip you care to hear about Duke Kolo."
The next lift arrives, and the duke and his companion are the first ones on it.
As it descends, Phil gathers the group back around him. Anticipating the question, he tells what he knows of the Duke, "I see you've made the acquaintance of Duke Kolo of Hammerhold. You certainly know how to pick a fight, dwarf. The Kolos control the Hammerhold Road between the First and Second Plateaus. The Duke's castle is at the top on the Second Plateau, but the rest of the family's holdings are at the bottom on the First Plateau. His father still lives on the First Plateau, but he passed on his title about three years ago. Tired of politics he said. Keeping the road operational and occupying the fort at the top has earned the Kolos quite a few concessions from the crown, including the right to free passage on the plateau lifts. The Highlord Mayor has not seen fit to reverse the concessions, especially since Kolo had been one of King Claudia's good friends. Furthermore, Kolo was one of the few nobles who backed Sturtevent in the early days. Now, Kolo comes through town about once every two weeks. He's the financial backer of several firms in Plateau City, and he is presumably always heading into town to check on his business interests. The quiet fellow with him is Sir Gilan. He's a Knight of the Realm and in charge of the Hammerhold garrison. He generally accompanies Kolo. Apparently the two are friends, but I've never heard Gilan speak. Now then, if you do accept his challenge of a duel, I suggest that you cheat because I understand that Kolo is an accomplished swordsmand and Gilan is even better. Certainly the pair would've been no match for your entire group, but one-on-one is another matter entirely."
Monthor ooc> Tuesday July 18th, 2006 6:03:12 PM
DM,any word on the rp awards and hero points from the last module?
Feng Tuesday July 18th, 2006 6:10:03 PM
"Perhaps there is still time to use the flight spell to beat those two to the bottom. They could use a lesson in humility. Maybe I will get a chance to show them what a real steed looks like. If I thought it would do any good Monthor, I would remind you that this isn't our present course of action."
Arien Tuesday July 18th, 2006 7:46:31 PM
"I doubt a lesson in humility, though needed, is something that we could truly teach one of the nobility. I say we just forget what has happened, it is typical of nobility, humans especially. Our goal is the tree and I say we move with haste."
Monthor Tuesday July 18th, 2006 9:21:57 PM
Monthor listens to everyone with a wicked smile on his face.
" No girlies.... Dooky threw down the gauntlet. He insulted me people and he insulted me. He said that dwarves are cowards. He said that me was a coward. Monthor ain't no coward and no one insultes me people without getting knocked on their back side. Me plan on walking up to Dooky's castle, knocking on the door and challenging him to throw down."
:: Monthor pauses and clenches his fist. ::
" No Princess, this ain't 'our' current course of action but it has now become mine. Arien, the rest of ye boys can go on if ye wish. Me will meet back up with you after me be done. Me not planning on killing Dooky but me will show him what a dwarf can do when a dwarf be ticked off."
Draax Wednesday July 19th, 2006 1:23:00 AM
Draax listens as the wizard explains about the Duke. He is not surprised when he hears that Monthor is not going to let the incident go. He smiles as he considered that the group was bored and need something to do and accepting a duel from the Duke is something to do.
Tratain Wednesday July 19th, 2006 9:33:00 AM
Tratain shrugs and follows Monthor. There would be no talking him out of accepting the Duke challenge.
Flight (DMJK) Wednesday July 19th, 2006 11:20:41 AM
Assuming everyone is ready, Phil starts casting the fly spells once he's received his money.
He adds a bit of parting advice, "The waterfall is just over that way, and remember one last bit from old Phil, ticked off dwarves may be a force to be reckoned with, but it still pays to be cautious around spoiled nobles who have nothing better to do than practice swordplay for four hours a day."
DMJK Wednesday July 19th, 2006 11:43:04 AM
ooc: Cayzle didn't pass on any info about roleplay exp or hero points, I'll ask him about it. Also, if you haven't emailed a character sheet to me yet, please do so. I don't want to blow anybody away in the first round of combat because you only had half as many hp as I thought.
Draax Wednesday July 19th, 2006 11:32:28 PM
Draax pays Phils, test the spell out by hovering a few steps, and then he flies to the bottom. At the bottom, he waits for the others to arrive.
Tratain Thursday July 20th, 2006 12:16:12 AM
Tratain pays Phil, then follows along to where the group decides to go next.
Arien Thursday July 20th, 2006 1:59:48 AM
Arien pays Phil and adds some gold for the information and then begins to fly towards the bottom.
Monthor Thursday July 20th, 2006 8:04:11 AM
To Phil:
" Well Phil me boy, between me new gear and my buddies' spells to boost me up me thinks me can take Dooky on. One way or they other, me and Dooky are going to throw down. May the better male win. "
Monthor clicks his heels twice and flies down on his own power using his winged boots.
Flight (DMJK) Thursday July 20th, 2006 11:02:28 AM
Draax sails out over the edge of the cliff and doesn't fall. It seems the spell works. The view of the cliff is amazing, but it hasn't really changed much.
Soon the rest of the party joins him in the air, and the trip to the bottom is quite fast. Indeed, you can all see that your flight is faster than the pace of the lift that's carrying the duke down the cliff face.
Feng Thursday July 20th, 2006 5:19:23 PM
"Perhaps if we hurry we can be down the road a bit before the Duke reaches the bottom. I'm sure he will be furious if we are simply traveling down the road as he heads for home."
Draax Friday July 21st, 2006 12:30:05 AM
Draax smiles at Feng's suggestion to get a safe distance away from the Duke. It would almost be worth it to see the Duke and Monthor go at it again.
"You are probably right Feng, for all we know he probably owns the road."
Arien Friday July 21st, 2006 2:56:02 AM
"I expect that you are right Feng, however I don't doubt that Monthor would also love the chance to rub it in the Duke's face that we arrived first. We do not know for sure how long these fly spells will last so I suggest that we head straight down then fly along the road until the spell wears off. We should be much closer to our goal by then."
Monthor Friday July 21st, 2006 6:51:53 AM
" You boys go on ahead. Me will catch up."
Monthor uses his boots to fly all the way down. He then finds himself a nice stump a little ways down the road and sits down waiting for Dooky and his pal to ride by. When he does see the Duke, he'll wave at him like a long lost friend.
DMJK Friday July 21st, 2006 11:08:37 AM
The waterfall that you came to investigate is between your present location and the road. Travel any distance down the road will take you farther away from the waterfall than you probably wish to go, unless you no longer wish to investigate.
Monthor bypasses the waterfall and takes up a spot along the road not too far from the lifts. The trees have been completely cleared for 10 yards on either side of the road, and there are absolutely no stumps or logs on which to sit.
The growth in the Blackheart Woods on the west side of the road is extremely dense and overgrown. The growth is more sparse on the east side, probably owing to the fact that there is a rather large vineyard just a bit farther to the east. No doubt you could see the vineyards on your flight down. The waterfall is also on the east side.
You also notice a rather long lift line at the bottom of the cliff, and Duke Kolo's lift is just reaching the bottom.
Draax Sunday July 23rd, 2006 4:39:02 PM
Draax heads towards to waterfall. When he reaches it, he will locate the tree and take a seat under it (if possible) while waiting for Monther to return.
Monthor Sunday July 23rd, 2006 7:31:34 PM
Monthor waits for Dooky and his friend to pass by.
ooc> Monthor will wave with much exhuberance towards Dooky and smile with a big dwavish grin.
Arien Sunday July 23rd, 2006 11:30:57 PM
Arien goes with Monthor, not out a desire to watch the inevitable, but to try to keep things as calm as possible.
Feng Monday July 24th, 2006 9:07:45 AM
The paladin summons his celestial war horse. Degg is a massive black warhorse with studded leather barding. Feng slides effortlessly into the saddle and turns the steed toward the end of the road in which they are headed. Instead of heading down that road Feng stays and keeps an eye on Monthor.
DMJK Monday July 24th, 2006 10:17:44 AM
Draax goes to the waterfall but is unable to locate the tree. In fact, this waterfall looks nothing like the one in the painting.
From their vantage point, Arien and Monthor are able to see the Duke leave the lift. He walks over to a guard and gives him some sort of brief message and a small leather pouch. The guard nods his head smartly as the duke mounts his horse and rides down the road.
His companion sees Monthor first and whispers something to the duke, but the duke doesn't seem aggravated to find the dwarf on the road. He stops his horse in the middle of the road and smiles at Monthor, "I'm glad to find you here. I was concerned that I had failed to give you directions to my estate. Just follow this road here to the north. At the first fork, head east. If you wish to fly or trample through grapevies, simply follow the Gnowsy vineyards. You can see our little fort from the northeast corner. I look forward to the pleasure of your company. Good afternoon."
With that, the pair makes ready to urge their mounts forward.
Monthor Monday July 24th, 2006 7:25:18 PM
ooc> Pre warning. I'll be away from the 28th to the 6th inclusive. I may be able to post once during that time mid week. Hey post bud, can you sub for me?
:: Monthor curtseys like a girl towards the duke and responds back. ::
" Don't worry Dooky. Monthor won't be far behind ye. "
Feng Tuesday July 25th, 2006 10:15:12 AM
The burly half orc sighed. They really didn't have time for this. The Duke may be an accomplished fighter but considering all they had been through it shouldn't be that big of a deal.
Farewell (DMJK) Tuesday July 25th, 2006 10:39:47 AM
The duke responds to Monthor, "Indeed." Then he spurs his horse forward and calls back with a pleasant, "Farewell."
Once the duke is out of sight, everyone hears a commotion and a cheer from the crowd waiting at the lower lift.
Draax is able to confirm that this is not the waterfall the group seeks, and while Monthor may wish to go to the duke's castle, it is out of the way if the waterfall is the group's destination. Of course, you don't really know what to expect at the waterfall except for a tree. The duke's fort might prove to be a more interesting destination.
Draax Tuesday July 25th, 2006 2:11:45 PM
Draax frowns as he realizes that this not the waterfall from the picture. "If we had something else to do, I would have said that this was a waste of time. It was nice to get out and do nothing for a change, but I would still like to find the waterfall with the tree."
Hearing the cheering at the lift, Draax goes back to investigate.
(OOC: I should be able to cover for your, just send me Monther's updated sheet.)
Monthor Wednesday July 26th, 2006 7:43:15 AM
Monthor rubs his hands together at the thought of a good brawl. He knows however that this is way to easy. Nobles, in his experience, don't tend to want to throw down and fight if they can get someone else to do it or if they think they have an advantage. He also wonders what Dooky's buisness with the guard was. Monthor signs and claps Arien on the back.
" Come friend. Let's go see what the locals are cheering about. "
First Impressions... (DMJK) Wednesday July 26th, 2006 10:33:32 AM
Draax and Monthor head back to see what all the fuss is about at the lift. One of the guards talks to the pair, "Yeah, it's always like this after Kolo rides the lift. Always pays for everyone in line when he gets off. Never does it when he gets on. Personally, I think he's scared the Teucri magic running the lifts will suddenly give out and drop the lift down the cliff, and that's his method of giving thanks."
Monthor Wednesday July 26th, 2006 10:38:01 AM
Monthor looks at Draax.
" So, Dooky doesn't mind throwing his weight around when he gets on but pays to ease his conscience when he gets off. Selfish Dooky. Very Selfish. Anywho, time start on me way to Dooky's. Me got some blue blood arse to kick. "
Draax Wednesday July 26th, 2006 10:37:21 PM
Draax openly laughs at Monthor's comments, "Yea, the Duke knows how to make an entrance and exit. If I would have known that I could have used the lift for free, I might have waited. I guess the waterfall is not going anywhere and if you are set on rumbling with the Duke, I might as well watch. Hopefully, the Duke will be hospitable to those that do not have a grudge with him."
Feng Thursday July 27th, 2006 9:42:28 AM
Feng rides along after the others. Something tells him that this is going to end badly, for somebody. The Duke seems to be challening adventureers for some time. No doubt that he has a few tricks in place to gaurentee his victory. Why else settle it at the compound rather than right in the street?
Tratain Thursday July 27th, 2006 10:04:12 AM
Tratain moves with the others, if the waterfall near them isn't the one they are looking for they will have to continue thier search after Monthor finishes with the Duke.
The road - DMJK Thursday July 27th, 2006 12:25:21 PM
When Monthor says he has some blood blood arse to kick the guard chuckles and says, "Good luck." The he turns back to his duties.
The road awaits, and whether choosing the duke or the waterfall, both destinations currently lie along the same road.
Assuming no other business, the sets off down the road. No one seems to be exerting themselves or rushing, but you all slowly notice that you're travelling very quickly down this road. The lifts disappear behind you faster than you would expect, and soon you come to a portion of the road with grapefields to the east and heavy woods to the west. The pace seems about the equivalent to what you would expect on horseback even though most of you are afoot.
Draax Friday July 28th, 2006 3:37:36 AM
When they come to the decision, Draax mentally marks the spot and then begins carefully walking through the grape field to the east.
Monthor Friday July 28th, 2006 7:42:47 AM
"Me going to Dooky's. So, who coming with me?"
ooc> And with that, I'm off until August 7th. It may be nice to have Tratain come along with Monthor to fortify him with some spells before the dual. Monthor can reason that Dooky will likely have his own tricks but Monthor wisdom (or lack there of) doesn't care. He plans on walking up to the front door, knocking and calling out the duke. Of course, Monthor has no intentions of killing him. Any blows will be of the non killing type. Monthor's preference will be to fistycuff but he will use his axe if Dooky insists on weapons. Monthor also reasons that his buds' abilities to teleport them away will likely be usefull once he trounces the duke. I'll email Draxx my character sheet over the weekend. Have fun boys and try not to get Monthor killed while I'm away.
DMJK Friday July 28th, 2006 12:20:56 PM
About the time Draax steps off the path into the vineyard, the group hears a scream off into the woods on the west.
Arien (Mage Armor) Saturday July 29th, 2006 2:38:04 AM
Arien hearing the scream, and not being the type of wizard to sit back in the event of trouble, heads into the woods, trying to find the source of the scream.
Draax Monday July 31st, 2006 3:43:21 AM
Hearing the scream, Draax stops and turns around to make sure what he heard was a scream. Seeing Arien start heading toward the wood, Draax hurries to catch up with the wizard and joins him in seeing what the trouble is.
Monthor (Stan) Monday July 31st, 2006 3:46:43 AM
Monthor hesitates as he hears the scream, he would really like to get his hands on Dooky, but the snob can wait for a few minutes while he ensures no one innocent is being hurt. Monthor takes once longing look in the direction of Dooky's castle before going to investigate with the others. "Dooky can wait a few minute while we see what is going on."
Tratain Monday July 31st, 2006 7:30:23 AM
Tratain Follows the others when he hearst the scream, going ot invistigate whats going on.
A pit (DMJK) Monday July 31st, 2006 11:40:26 AM
Following the sound of the screams, the group finds a young lady in her late teens or early twenties in what looks to be a freshly dug pit. It's too perfectly circular, about 5 feet in diameter, and some 10 feet deep. The sides and floor of the pit are dirt, and the girl babbles something about falling in while chasing her dog that ran off the path.
You see no sign of a dog up above. (spot or listen checks if you wish to make them)
Draax d20+7=22 Tuesday August 1st, 2006 12:28:09 AM
Draax tests the edge of the pit before leaning over to look at the girl. He says in a calm voice while pulling a rope out of his backpack, "Don't worry, we are here to help. Are you hurt, can you move?" Depending on the girl answer and the actions of the others, Draax will offer to pull her up by the rope is she is not hurt or if she is hurt he will let someone heal her before helping her out of the hole. (spot check 22)
Monthor (stan) d20+2=5 Tuesday August 1st, 2006 12:36:09 AM
Seeing what the commotion is, Monthor tries not to let the disappointment show on his face. He rubs his hands together and moves toward the hole. "OK, lets get the lass out of there, Dooky is waiting."
Feng Tuesday August 1st, 2006 8:51:10 AM
Feng sits back atop of his mighty warhorse. While they are helping the girl out of the pit he takes the moment to feel for lurking evil.
ooc: detect evil.
Tratain Tuesday August 1st, 2006 5:03:10 PM
Tratain Helps Draax pull the woman out of the Pit.
Ambush (DMJK) d20+3=6 5d4(2+2+4+4+1)=13 Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 10:56:09 AM
As the party gathers around the pit to help the lass out, a crossbow bolt sails over Draax's head and thumps into the base of a neaby tree.
Even as the bolt is quivering in the trunk, the girl casts a spell and a spurt of flames shoots up out of the pit. Draax, Tratain, and Monthor are all by the mouth of pit and feel the heat of the flames rush by them. (13 pts heat dmg, save DC15 for half).
The girl flies up out of the hole behind the flames and takes up a position some 10 feet above the pit.
Eight bandits step out into the clearing. Each is pointing a heavy crossbow at the group, but they are also clearly armed with other weapons. One on the north side of the clearing speaks, "It seems you've fallen into an ambush. If you toss all of your gold into the pit and for the safety of the road as fast as you can, you just might live to see tomorrow."
Feng [AC 23, HP 125/ 125] Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 1:41:07 PM
Feng slowly draws the great axe off his back as he sits atop his massive warhorse. "Gentlemen you really need to reconsider this life you have chosen for yourself. We have battled dragons and giants. Wizards of unspeakable power. We will not back down which doesn't speak well for you. You have one chance to lower your weapons and turn yourself in at the closest guard outpost."
CDM Jerry Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 3:03:18 PM
This game will shut down after Friday 11:59PM if the ADM does not place their posting report for last week on this board by then.
Email me if there is a problem. ;)
ADM Joe the Slacker Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 7:16:35 PM
Player - MTWRF DM - xxxxx
Sorry for slacking on this guys, have been busy but thats not really an excuse. Good posting from Monthor and Draax. The rest of us need to work on it, especially for combat.
Tratain AC 29 HP 106/113 d20+10=27 d20+4=12 d20+10=28 Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 7:28:19 PM
Tratain is able to Dodge out of the way of some of the spell (reflex 27) but is unable to tell what spell was cast at them.
Tratain Pulls out his Warhammer and Shield and if time while everyone is talking ready's an action to counterspell the girl if she attempts to cast another spell. (Useing counterspell to counter a Casted spell, Beats Caster Level 17 or Lower)
Tratain says "Throw your weapons in the Pit and do as My friend says, if you force us to fight you its not going to end well for you. We won't hold back and many of you will die before the rest realize you are no match for us."
Draax (hp 136/143, AC25) d20+10=30 d20+7=20 d20+7=14 Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 9:41:14 PM
Draax jumps away from the fames and only takes some of the damage (wasted natural 20). He pulls his sword and readies his shield. He turns slowly in a circle mentally marking the location of each bandit (spot checks 20 and 14 if necessary).
Monthor (HP: 117/124, AC: 29) (stan) d20+9=15 d20+5=18 Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 9:54:38 PM
Monthor side steps away from most of the flames and does not pay any attention to the minor burns he received (reflex save 15). He pulls his Dwarven War Axe +2 and stands ready for the bandits. He smiles, "I needed a little practice before taking on Dooky." After his last word is spoken, his axe burst into flames to add a little intimidation to his actions (intimidation check 18).
Arien (Mage Armor/ AC 21/ HP 60/60) Thursday August 3rd, 2006 12:23:22 AM
Arien readies an action to cast greater invisibility upon himself should the bandits press the attack.
Somebody's Funeral (DMJK) [atk bandit #2, hit] d20+17=34 [dmg to Feng= 4] d8+1=4 [atk bandit #4, hit] d20+15=25 [dmg to Feng= 5] d8=5 [atk bandit #5, hit] d20+17=33 [dmg to Feng=5] d8=5 [atk bandit #7, hit] d20+16=25 [dmg to Feng=3] d8+1=3 [atk bandit #3] d20+17=29 [dmg to Feng=6] d8=6 [atk bandit #6, hit] d20+17=34 [dmg to Feng=3] d8+1=3 [atk bandit #8, miss] d8+16=19 [atk bandit #9, hit] d8+17=24 [dmg feng=5] d8+1=5 Thursday August 3rd, 2006 11:56:48 AM
The speaker (#3) doesn't seem daunted and mocks Feng, "Sounds like fun." Then he barks out an order to his men, "Burn 'em down!"
The flying woman casts a fireball, but Tratain manages to counter the spell.
Seeing the spell doesn't work, the speaker calls out new orders, "Horseman!"
Arien turns invisible as all eight bandits then fire their crossbows at Feng. Seven of the bolts strike the paladin (dmg=31, make 4 fort saves and post DCs).
At that point, bandits 2, 4, 5, & 7 begin to reload. Bandits 3, 6, 8, & 9. Drop their crossbows on the ground, draw weapons, and charge toward the party.
#3 closes with Feng. #6 closes with Monthor. #8 & #9 close with Draax.
3 & 8 wield longswords. 6 & 9 wield great swords. #3 is wearing chainmail. The others are wearing banded mail. [swapped 8&6 here to correct the wield types -jk]
Tratain AC 32 HP 134/141 [Extended Magic Vestment; Shield of Faith; Bears Endurence] Thursday August 3rd, 2006 1:23:04 PM
Seeing the Bandits attack Tratain casts Quickened Shield of Faith upon himself, and follows up with Mass Bears Endurence cast upon the whole Party. When he finishes Casting Tratain takes a 5 foot step towords Draax.
-------------------------------------------- Extended Magic Vestment - +4 AC to Shield; 32 Hours Shield of Faith - +4 Deflection AC; 16 Minutes Bears Endurence - +4 Con; 16 Minutes
Monthor (the real one with a library computer) (AC 29, +1 dodge AC, Mass Bears indurance, fly) d20+27=29 d20+12=24 d10+12=18 d6=1 Thursday August 3rd, 2006 2:04:03 PM
Monthor clicks his heels, activates his winged boots and flies towards the flying mage for an attack.
" SURPRISE!!!!! "
If Monthor gets in range he attacks two handed with his axe.
Hits AC 29 for 22 (4 weapon, 12 strenght, 2 weapon sp. and 2 weapon bonus. I only counted the strenght in the above role. Ignore the D20+12 role) physical and 1 fire for 23 total damage.
Draax (hp 164/170, AC25, Bears Endurance) d20+24=42 d20+24=38 d8+12=16 d6=3 d8+12=19 d8=2 d20+19=24 d8+12=18 d20+14=25 d8+12=19 Thursday August 3rd, 2006 4:59:24 PM
Draax attacks #8 and with is first swing (hit AC 42 critical for 35dmg & 2 sonic dmg, total 37 dmg, disreguard 1d6 roll) he is reward with a thundering sound coming for his thundersword (if still alive must make Fortitude save (DC 14) or be deafened permanently).
He swings at #8 again (hit AC 24 for 18 dmg).
Draax attack #8 again unless he is down or deafened, if either case Draax will attack #9 (hits AC 25 for 19 dmg).
Draax (hp 164/171 AC25, Bears Endurance) minor correction Thursday August 3rd, 2006 5:03:21 PM
OOC: Minor corrections to HP, that 1 point might come in handy.
Arien (Mage Armor, Greater Invisibility, Bear's Endurance, AC 21/ HP 88/88) Thursday August 3rd, 2006 6:42:02 PM
Arien takes advantage of his invisibility and starts casting Summon Monster VII, calling a huge fire elemental.
Feng [AC 23, HP 94/ 125] d20+16=35 d20+16=34 d20+16=33 d20+16=22 d20+17=33 d20+12=13 d20+7=25 d12+20=26 2d6(5+3)=8 d12+20=28 2d6(2+6)=8 Friday August 4th, 2006 10:27:47 AM
Feng wishes it didn't have to come to this but then it always does. He gave them a chance and instead they wish to kill and murder. He brings his great axe down hard as his warhorse instinctively turns to give him the best angle.
ooc: fort saves: 35, 34, 33, 22 Power attack -5/ +10. Hit ac 33 for 26 (plus 8 if evil). Hit ac 25 for 28 (plus 8 if evil)
round 2 (DMJK) [ft save] d20+14=25 [#2, hit] d20+17=34 [#4, miss] d20+15=22 [#5, hit] d20+17=23 [#7, miss] d20+16=20 [#2 dmg to Feng=8] d8+1=8 [#5 dmg to Feng=7] d8=7 [#3, atk 1, hit]d20+20=23 [#3, atk2, hit, threat]d20+15=35 [#3, atk2, crit, hit]d20+15=28 [#3, atk3, miss] d20+10=18 [#3 dmg1 to feng=11] d8+4=11 [#3 dmg2 to feng=11] d8+4=11 [#3 dmgC to feng=5] d8+4=5 [#6, hit]d20+24=39 [#6 dmg to feng=20]2d6(6+6)+8=20 [#8, hit]d20+19=27 [#8,hit] d20+14=31 [#8, miss]d20+9=11 [#8, dmg to Draax=6]d8+5=6 [#8, dmg to Draax=13]d8+5=13 [#9, atk1, threat, hit]d20+22=42 [#9, atk1, crit, hit]d20+22=33 [#9, atk2, miss]d20+17=22 [#9, atk3, hit]d20+12=27 [#9, dmg1 to draax=18]2d6(6+6)+6=18 [#9, dmgC to draax=17]2d6(5+6)+6=17 [#9, dmg2 to Draax=13]2d6(6+1)+6=13 Friday August 4th, 2006 12:16:02 PM
Tratain casts his spells and moves toward Draax.
Monthor activates his boots and flies up to the sorceress, but he can not also make an attack after activating his boots and moving this round.
Draax lays into bandit #8. He hits his adversary three times, but the bandit neither goes down nor appears deafened. He doesn't even look angry.
Feng feels slightly dizzy after being struck with the crossbow bolts. He suspects it is not due to loss of blood. The effects are not bad enough to interfere with any of his abilities, at least not yet. He then regretfully turns to engage the bandit leader. He makes two solid hits, and his adversary looks much the worse for wear but remains on his feet.
The girl casts a spell and a wall of iron appears directly above Monthor. Not anchored to anything but empty air, it immediately begins to fall. [STR DC40 to catch it, Ref DC20 to get out of the way.] When the wall drops, she starts flying straight upward.
The crossbow men fire again. Again, they target Feng, and four more bolts streak toward him. It seems that combat has rattled their accuracy, and only two of the bolts strike home. [15 dmg, 2 fort saves]
Feng notes that the leader seems less sure of himself now; he might even be on the verge of panic. Nevertheless, he's determined to dish out some damage of his own, and he attacks Feng with the fury of desparation. [2 hits, 26 dmg total]
Seeing Monthor fly up out of his reach, #6 turns and charges Feng with his greatsword raised up above his head. Using that big sowrd, he hits considerably harder than his leader. [20 dmg]
Feng stays on his feet, but if all the bandits keep targeting him, he'll need help soon.
#8 attacks Draax with his longsword. He's all business and doesn't seem to be either enjoying or regretting his actions. [2 hits, 19 dmg total]
#9 ignores Tratain's advance and also attacks Draax. He swings that greatsword with a fury and hits Draax with one critical blow that really hurts. [2 hits, 48dmg]
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