Murdock d20+18=21 Monday December 18th, 2006 10:15:41 AM
Murdock respectfully recieves the welcome of the three citizens of the village. "I am Murdock Trizica, and it is my honor to meet with you.", he says to each in turn. He then turns to enter the temple with the rest of the pack.
He her's Tishe' take the lead in front of the elders and cast a detect magic. (spellcraft 21). However, he feels somewhat disconnected from the events, and so stay's silent as the others of the pack begin the work of uncovering the truth of this mystery.
Jake d20+5=8 Monday December 18th, 2006 1:59:59 PM
Jake happily shakes hands and says your welcome to all who are happy and is on something of a high as they get to the temple. "It's great to see we're heroes... Man, ah can't wait for us to be treated like that when we get back to Rattledam." Jake seems pretty sure they'll still get back somehow. "It's a pleasure to meet y'all," he tips his hat to the three. He's more wary than usual of hitting on the young woman; she's a priestess of gargul, and he figures that means she'll probably be as crazy as Grymash. Nope, not getting near that. Still, he does subtly check her out. He glances around for anybody in the crowd who looks suspicious, or anybody who might be trying to skulk about. Never knowing what might happen next. But most of all he loses interest in his vigilance, instead examining the femmes in the village assembled. (Bleh, spot 8)
Flea d20+9=17 d20+11=29 Monday December 18th, 2006 8:54:47 PM
Flea mumbles and ducks her head at the attention. The rogue is not entirely confortable with things related to the god of death and life, and worries that another audience with the grey-eyed one might be in the offing.
Flea places her hand on her chest where the gem has been embedded. She tries to tell if it is warmer or colder than her own body. She wonders if it still carries any magic...any magic at all...
Though she gives the appearance of being lost in a reverie, the gnome's sharp eyes and ears don't miss much.
Spot=17 Listen=29
Trellus d20+8=20 Monday December 18th, 2006 9:44:57 PM
The cleric briefly toys with putting on this pendant, but in the end decides to wait. If it belonged to a former citizen of IronHome, he might not be doing himself many favors by wearing it.
Trellus returns the greeting of everyone he can, making sure to put in a good word for the various sons and daughters and their actions as well - "She led all the rest of the kids out of harm's way -- He held a smaller child beneath his own body to keep her safe -- etc [Diplomacy 20]
Upon meeting the three witnesses, he nods and smiles warmly. "Many shadows," he greets them. "May your chief cross quickly to the Lands of Rest."
Trellus follows the three in, nodding acknowledgement of Tishe's words. He waits to see what happens next.
Gilan and Ciaran Monday December 18th, 2006 11:05:15 PM
Gilan takes the praises and thank yous in stride. He is not too much for the attention and several times he colors before he can even try to stop it.
Finally, and thankfully, they are at the entrance to the small temple. He greets each in turn and shakes hands with those that offer. After they have entered the building and as he stands off to the side for now...allowing Tishe' to take the lead on this one, he speaks to the three witnesses, Jalian and Rayla. "What is the reason for the party...if I am making no offense by asking?" He was a little curious and could not help but asking.
Ciaran is stiff-legged through all of the welcomes and all. Though none of it was directly aimed at him, he still felt nervous as people drew that close. Even inside of the temple he felt nervous. Maybe it was the unnatural surroundings, both dead and civilization.
Checks and measures. (DM Jim) Monday December 18th, 2006 11:20:00 PM
The neutrals enter the small temple and move off to the side. There are seats but they do not move to them but come to stand near the platform that the body is laying upon. You will notice that they have an unobstructed view of everything that will be going on but not be in the way.
Tishe' takes the lead in the whole process that they are about to work themselves into. Stating exactly what she is going to do and then doing just that. She does wait just long enough for questions, if any are asked. As she slowly moves around the body she notices no signs of magic about the former leader of IronHome.
The rest of the group moves off to the side alittle so that they too can watch and be ready if Tishe' asks for anything. Gilan poses a question to the group of neutrals, Jalian and Rayla. This question gets a smile from all five and it is the young priestess Eninea that answers. "Is it not so among your people to celebrate the continues life of someone that has died? You do realize that they go on to stand before Gargul and then enter into his realm, there to continue life anew." She glances to Grymash, finding it hard that a man of the faith would not believe this or maybe Gargul is not their main deity. She has of course been aware of the presence of another priest in the group, one of Domi...or could they revel in nature and all her glory?
Neela speaks up for a few seconds but it is to Tishe' that she speaks, though it is pitched so that the others have to hear as well. "You will check for poison as well then?" She looks upon the body of the Elder with a bit more grief and affection than most people that are not family or something else. "I remember the day he was brought into this village and he was as vital and healthy then as he was the day he died." This last is said almost forcefully as if she was reminding herself that this man should not have died yet.
Overtly noone sees or hears anything that would set your warrior tuned senses on their ear. There are also no signs of immediate magic around the body, though the pool of water some five feet away does have a faint aura of magic too it. There is also a faint glow of magic around the altar and statue of Gargul ahead of the area that the body is laying.
Tishe' Tuesday December 19th, 2006 1:16:29 PM
(OOC: My last post until living in Texas. MikeK is taking over Tishe' until I get settled.)
Tishe' nods to herself; it is as she expected. "No lingering magic", she confirms to her packmates.
Another nod to Neela, and Tishe' casts Detect Poison, once again looking at Grandfather and then at the surrounding area and people for any sign of poison.
Arcane Spells White -- Acid Splash, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand, Prestidigitation Red -- Grease, *Mage Armor, Summon I, Shield, Magic Missle Orange -- Glitterdust, See Invisibility, Web, Scorching Ray Yellow -- Summon III, Fly, Haste
Jake Tuesday December 19th, 2006 2:14:30 PM
"Ah guess we don't, really. Ah mean, we have these rituals and stuff, and people...especially packs, mourn those who are lost. Ummm. In Rattledam, it's mainly Pantheon in charge, that's what most of the monks follow. But y'know, if ah were to die, ah'd like it if one or two pretty gals cried at my funeral." Jake winks at the girl, not hitting on her, just trying to make her laugh. He probably won't succeed; priests of the dead aren't known for their humor. "Light, even if we do find something wrong, ah dunno what we'll do about it. This town is pretty set in its ways.. We should just move on, looking for Rattledam again."
Trellus d20+7=17 d20+7=9 d20+7=8 d20+9=14 Tuesday December 19th, 2006 10:10:40 PM
"I'll check for poisoning, as well as anything else I can find non-magically," the cleric states. "If that doesn't work, I can cast a spell to ask some questions of Domi, if he knows." He looks up. "Would that be acceptable?"
Trellus casts Detect Poison, and then breaks out a seldom used Healer's Kit to inspect the body. [Knowledge Arcana 17] [Knowledge Religion 9] [Knowledge Sargass 8] [Heal 14]
Gilan and Ciaran Tuesday December 19th, 2006 10:36:12 PM
Gilan takes the answer to his question as a good thing. It was actually a good way to look at death. Was not moving on to live in Gargul's realm not a new life.
Ciaran lays down and tries to keep himself out of trouble as best he can.
Good news, bad news. (DM Jim) Tuesday December 19th, 2006 11:33:34 PM
The five IronHome natives watch with some interest as the pack goes about thier own testing. Neela shakes her head as she has already done a simple spell to detect poison. To that she speaks up. "Unless the poison has degraded in his blood...you will find traces." She says no more as she has not tested the poison to see what kind it is.
Tishe' and Trellus both find traces of poison in the body of the Elder. Trellus, using more mundane means, finds that the poison was ingested. The Elder's tongue is slightly discolored on the underside, as is his throat.
The five watchers nod there heads as Trellus mentions asking for help from Domi, in the form of answers. You get the idea that to all five of these people it is important to find out the truth.
LOOT mithril chainshirt+2 morningstar of spell storing+1 ring of protection+3[Murdock] extend rod lesser empower rod staff of frost(20charges)[Tishe' or Murdock] wand of melf's acid arrow(28charges)[Murdock] wand of cure critical wounds(8charges)[party treasure(Flea)] bracers of armor+4[Murdock] lion's shield+2[Jake][/b] death ward scroll(CL7)[divine] greater magic weapon scroll(CL7)[divine] tonguesscroll(CL7)[divine] silencescroll(CL3)[arcane] blindness scroll(CL2)[arcane] vial(3) cat's grace potion(2) cure moderate wound potion fly potion pearl(2)[100gold per gem][Tishe'] pendant of order[Trellus] * +4wisdom(still has more secrets) broken ceramic jar with a little dirt left in it {powerful necromancy} bag from Jalian w/ 100platinum coin
[I will let the group know once again that yes you are allowed to visit the Catacombs and make purchases. You will not have the extra money from these items yet though as things are still being ironed out.]
Grymash d20=12 d20+2=16 Tuesday December 19th, 2006 11:42:11 PM
Grymash slowly pulls away the hood of his blackened priestly cloak away from his head. The shadows retreat from his face showing his eyes closed. His lips silently muttering the conclusion to a prayer. His head nods and a tusk-filled grin forms across his face, as if receiving favorable responses to his mute queries. "Hmmmm ... yess! Gargul bless yooz for speakin' words true," replies Grymash to the priestess. "It be written ... Da eye which Grymash sees Gargul, be da same eye Gargul sees Grymash. An what Grymash sees, Gargul sees too. So, witness ta Grymash an Gargul too will beez yoorz witness an hears da words yooz speak. An Grymash wills speak da words of Lord Gargul. Confess da stories of his life, so dat he gets his proper wage in death. Da Elder be wit Lord Gargul now an he know da truth. It be written!"
Murdock Wednesday December 20th, 2006 4:04:28 AM
Murdock remains silent, watching the proceedings and taking in the action of the pack.
Jake Wednesday December 20th, 2006 4:20:34 PM
Jake also remains silent...because he really has nothing to say. In fact, he's kinda bored, but he doesn't want to display it and embarass his packmates. Well, that and there's a dead body right nearby. Best not to do anything stupid or embarassing in front of that.
Trellus d20+5=18 Wednesday December 20th, 2006 9:32:47 PM
The cleric of Domi can't determine the type of poison either (Wisdom check 18), but he does point out to the IronHome dudes that the Elder ate or drank it.
Having received permission to continue, Trellus sets about preparing a spell he's never tried before. He scatters incense on the ground, and pours holy water in a circle about it. Stepping into the circle, the cleric lifts the small silver hammer he carries as high as he can while chanting an incantation. It takes some time. After many minutes of unitelligible syllables, a question -- [Cast Commune]
"Is the one who poisoned this man within the wall of IronHome?"
"Does the one who poisoned this man reside within the walls of IronHome?
"Is the one who poisoned this man male?"
[OOC - that's about as far as I can go without some answers. Still have 7 questions left]
Tishe Wednesday December 20th, 2006 9:34:10 PM
Tishe watches the Trellus intensely. A new pick! She LOVES new picks!
Gilan and Ciaran Wednesday December 20th, 2006 10:36:15 PM
Gilan stands back and lets Trellus and Tishe' go about thier work. He knows that he would only get in the way if he tried to help. Something about too many hands in the pot, spoiling the stew. He does watch with interest as Trellus starts to ask his questions with the conclusion of a spell.
Ciaran is lightly snoring in a corner, catching up on some needed sleep. Though occassionally you notice that his ears twitch as does his nose.
Answers. (DM Jim) Friday December 22nd, 2006 4:41:11 PM
As Trellus makes his preparations the others watch with some interest. Not that Neela is too happy about nonGargul magic being used in her temple...but it is for a good cause.
The others watch and wait as Trellus asks his first questions. For in front of him has formed the spectral form of a large hammer that even without eyes seems to regard him with pleasure. For each question there is an answer and he is in Domi's favor.
"No...Yes...No."
The spectral form of the hammer seems to quiver as it waits for anymore questions from Trellus. There is a flooding of faith in the room that touches everyone, easing everyones' minds.
[Sorry guys, had a few problems yesterday that had to be dealt with.]
Murdock Friday December 22nd, 2006 10:13:56 PM
Sits and waits, somewhat interested in the divine magic of the cleric of Domi, but mostly bored of the proceedings.
Grymash Wednesday December 27th, 2006 1:26:08 AM "Hmmmphf," thinks Grymash as he watches the floating hammer. Why didnt he think of that?! He has that magic too ... at least he thinks he does? Oh well.
Trellus Wednesday December 27th, 2006 1:35:01 PM
"Did Bertina of IronHome poison this man?"
Jake Wednesday December 27th, 2006 3:33:36 PM
The half-elf looks over at Trellus. That's some guess!
Flea d20+9=13 d20-1=11 Tuesday January 2nd, 2007 9:41:05 PM
The rogue isn't too keen on the dark Gargul stuff, but when Trellus starts to invoke Domi, and then the hammer appears! Flea has seen the hammer enough to know what that means!
Forgetting the place they are in, and the people who surround them, she looses her holy short sword from its scabbard, and with a ringing sound pulls it free. Waving the small blade in the air, she shouts, "I know you Domi! Get to know me!"
The gnome is rewarded by the warmth generated by the flood of faith that spreads throughout the room. Her quick eyes take in the reactions of the other participants in the room, wondering if their response might give them away. (Spot=13, Sense Motive=11)
Gilan and Ciaran Tuesday January 2nd, 2007 10:52:23 PM
Gilan continues to watch, now with a little more eye for detail as Trellus seems to be getting some answers. Then Flea pulls out her sword and he inwardly groans at this move. Maybe not the most delicate thing to do during a funeral or an inquiry.
Not a definite. (DM Jim) Tuesday January 2nd, 2007 10:58:30 PM
The large hammer seems to pulse and humm as Trellus asks this newest question. A minute passes and then four, till finally there is a reply.
"Impossible to answer."
The five people attending this turn to each other and fall into quick discussion. They seem to be trying to figure out the meaning behind this answer. The others had been straight and to the point but this one was not that easy.
Flea's display with her own sword does draw a few frowns from all those attending the questioning. Rayla and Neela both seem to frown the deepest but only roll their eyes, shaking their heads. It might be safe to say that noone in this room is guilty of much that is concerned with the Elder.
Murdock Wednesday January 3rd, 2007 8:41:32 AM
Murdock knows the hammer is divine magic, something he is not very interested in. The drow feels that true faith does not require proof of a gods existance granted by magic. However, Murdock keeps his mouth shut.
Being one of the more useless participants in this inqiry, as it is obviously the priest of the small band that are ment to truly be here, Murdock looks for a way to exit the premise without causing a sensation.
He knows that with a branch for the catacombs near by, he may be able to also find a way to link up with the guild of Star Mages, and find out more about this mysterious dirt.
Mudock is thinking about his very exit during the long minutes the spirit takes to answer the last question. When the spirit answers, his mind is set a spark, and he says, "Perhaps the spirit is not able to answer because the assasin had some form of magic to changes her shape?" It is the first words the drow has uttered since he has been in the chapel. "If this is the case, such magic would surely be a trail to the assasin, for no simple commoner could cast such a spell, or would possess a magic item capable of doing so."
Trellus Wednesday January 3rd, 2007 11:52:10 AM
The cleric is way too busy concentrating on his spell to dwell on the implications of the answers just yet. Knowing he has only a bit of time left to ask more questions, Trellus keeps weaving.
"Did a person not residing within IronHome order the death of this man?"
[If yes, was it the Barons? Else the RedClaws?]
Flea d20-1=9 Thursday January 4th, 2007 12:09:59 AM
Flea wishes there was some way she could help Trellus out with his questions, but she doesn't know how. The gnome lowers her sword, but doesn't sheath it. Instead, she continues to study the faces around her and tries to gauge their responses to the cleric's questions and the hammer's answers. (Sense Motive=9)
Is it really safe to say that no one in the room is guilty of much that is concerned with the Elder, she wonders.
Grymash d20+2=15 Thursday January 4th, 2007 1:29:39 AM
Grymash prays silently to Gargul a little more. "Uhhh Lord Gargul ... how dis treadle die? Gry means, Uhhh, hows he bite da deep dirt? Dis seem ta beez importent to da piggies heres in Ironhut. Gry no know why ... dead be dead."
He opens his eyes and looks around. Wondering if anyone is holding a bloody weapon, vials of poison and the like. Anyone that looks guilty or nervous.
(Spot 15)
Gilan and Ciaran Thursday January 4th, 2007 11:00:39 PM
Gilan relaxes into the wall with this newest revelation. This could have many implications but he will not speak them now. He to, goes to watching all those around him. Spending extra time upon those that had been voted to witness this quest for answers.
Ciaran continues to snore on blissfully unaware of what is going on around him. Those paying attention will notice that his ears twitch every once in awhile as if he is still listening and his nose seems to be working.
A twisted tale. (DM Jim) Thursday January 4th, 2007 11:09:29 PM
The hammer flares for a few minutes as the last couple of questions are asked. Still in the favor of Domi Trellus gets those answers...though as to how much help...that is uncertain.
"Impossible to answer."
With the last question now hanging in the air as Trellus has no reason to ask it, he wonders the import of this latest bit of news.
Rayla and Jalian have been whispering for a few moments now with the answer to the next to last question. They seem to be putting together some ideas of what may have happened.
The other three watchers seem to be frowning as this has not been as productive as they would have hoped. Though each keeps his thoughts hidden from being voiced or read on their faces...they do not believe the group had anything to do with this.
No answer seems to be forthcoming from Gargul as Grymash mulls thoughts around in his head. Though there are several thoughts going on about seeking answers from another God by one of the witnesses...maybe Grymash is thinking the same thing...but does he have access to the spell or will he actually think of it himself.
Jalian and Rayla seem to come to a decision. Jalian nods her head to Rayla and then speaks. "Go get Bertina...I think we have a few questions for her and maybe she can explain some of this." You can easily tell by the set of her eyes that she has her doubts as to how much help that woman will be.
Jake Friday January 5th, 2007 6:08:10 AM
Jake ponders what's going on. He concentrates a bit more, thinking about it, and giving some of his thoughts out loud. "Hmm... could be that it's someone who left last night. Or, could be that somebody did it 'cause they were ordered to... Or possessed by magic... or could be another god... There's too many things that could be to know for sure."
Trellus Friday January 5th, 2007 9:31:33 AM
A bead of sweat dribbles down the temple of the blond haired man wearing the robes of Domi. Trellus has time to ask more questions, but given the last two answers, he's not sure what to ask.
After several heartbeats, he decides to start at the beginning of the thread.
"Do you know who poisoned this man?"
[If yes - If I guess that person's name, will you confirm it?"]
Murdock Friday January 5th, 2007 10:13:48 AM
Murdock ignores Jake's supposition, although it is probably right on target. This man's death is quite obviously the result of a weak leader and someones evil ambitions, the mage thinks. The fact that Pantheon has judged this man unworthy of further life is simply a fact that must be accepted by this community.
Murdock has plainly had enough of sitting around on his hands waiting for this proceeding to conclude. He decides to wait just a short time longer, hoping without much hope that Trellus will conclude his spell and they can be gone from this place. If this continues much longer, the darkelf may just decide to leave the temple and attend to his business in the catacombs.
Jake/Mike ---Loot Friday January 5th, 2007 1:52:21 PM
((This is a summary, basically a reposting of Michael Knott's excellent division of how we did loot. Wanted tomake sure everyone took a good look.
mithril chainshirt+2 (5100gp) morningstar of spell storing+1 (8308 gp) (Murdock?) ring of protection+3 (18,000 gp) extend rod (11,000 gp) lesser empower rod (9000 gp) (Tishe) staff of frost(20charges) (22,500 gp) (Murdock?) wand of melf's acid arrow(28charges) (2250 gp) (Flea) wand of cure critical wounds(8charges) (Murdock?) bracers of armor+4 (16,000) (Jake) lion's shield+2 (9170 gp) death ward scroll(CL7)[divine] (700 gp) greater magic weapon scroll(CL7)[divine] (700 gp) tongues scroll (CL7)[divine] (700 gp) silence scroll (CL3)[arcane] (375 gp) blindness scroll(CL2)[arcane] (150 gp) vial(3) (guesstimated value 1000 gp) cat's grace potion(2) (600 gp) cure moderate wound potion (Jake) Fly potion (750 gp) (Tishe) pearl(2)[100gold per gem] (200 gp) (Trellus) pendant of order (16,000 +) * +4wisdom(still has more secrets) broken ceramic jar with a little dirt left in it {powerful necromancy} bag from Jalian w/ 100platinum coin (1000 gp)
Total (does not include jar or healing wand or healing potion) = 123503 Share value = 17, 643 and change.
Explanation: Basically, everyone gets 17,643 gold pieces. Keep in mind that items traded to the Catacombs for loot are only worth 90%... They can, if they want, take the items that are next to their names for full value. So, there's some math to do... Did it for Jake here as example: Jake: 750 (potion) + Lion's shield (9170) = 9920 Leftover money share he receives: 17,643-9920 = 7723. 90% cost from catacombs = .9*7723 = 2.7+18+630+6300= 6950.7
Math note aside: Now I could discount the 1000 gold split 7 ways out of this 90%... but that's just too much math for me to bother with for an extra 20 or so gold.
So Jake gets the potion of flight, lion's shield, and 6950.7 gold.
The advantage of all this math is that we each can get what we want, but if we take what the DM gives us, it saves a bit of money. Besides, most of the items he gave us are cool. Some people may want to have more items than they received in money. If you have the cash, you can pay into it to get those items. If you don't have the cash, it probably isn't worth it having those items at this time...just save your money up for it and get them next chance.)
Murdock Friday January 5th, 2007 4:31:56 PM
/ooc all of this
So let me make sure I understand. If I chose the ring, I would owe the group money. If I chose the bracers, the group with owe me money. If I can benefit from and chose both, I owe the group ALOT of money?
So if we run across stuff that we can use, but we dont have the money to pay in, the group just sells it, instead of awarding it to the person who can use it in the name of being fair?
I seem the wisdom of the system, but I also think that if we have item that can benefit the group by making a party member stronger, then the stuff should be used by the people who would benefit rather than just being sold because its fair.
It would be like selling your prized bag of dice, just because you got some more dice during christmas.
Following the system that you guys have in place. I will take the bracers and the cash.
Jake/Mikey Friday January 5th, 2007 6:38:17 PM
/ooc response: Logically, whenever anyone can use an item they should just take it. But because this is one of those games where any character can go to the Catacombs and get a magic item for the price, there really is no reason not to just take the cash and save up till you can buy it. I know what you're thinking: some characters may need a LOT of cash to get stuff they need to make themselves really powerful. Mages at any level, for example, can really benefit from lots of cash. Whereas with warriors, it might take an extra 10,000 gp or so just to get to the next +1 on their weapon or armor. So, should we give money just to the mages, and let the warriors have less? The mages can probably make more use of them. And at what point does it balance out? The real penalty comes from us NOT taking the magic items that are suggested if you can afford them. Keep in mind that you take the 90% value of items sold. That means if we were to get 100k gold of items and we divied it up, we'd only get 90k of items in the end. So in the end, let each person decide personally what they want, and avoid the idea of group buffing... tho, Murdock, if you need a few thousand gold, Jake can lend it to you to be able to afford that magical item.
Gilan and Ciaran Sunday January 7th, 2007 9:38:30 PM
Gilan watches as Jalian calls for the summoning of the woman who was a fixer of potions. He does not realize that he has spoken till he looks to the others, who are most likely giving him odd looks. "She would have the skills and time." He blushes deeply as he finds something interesting with the ceiling.
Ciaran continues to snore, lost in his own little world as things go on around him.
Hammer falls. (DM Jim) Sunday January 7th, 2007 9:49:09 PM
The hammer wavers for a few minutes as if it is thinking. Then it booms in a voice that all can hear inside the small temple.
"Yes."
Jalian sends Rayla out to get Bertina, as the rest seem to be nodding their heads. It is Edinea that speaks though and it is no surprise. "Something does seem strange here." She turns a withering eye upon the druid Gilan and then starts laughing. "He has the right of it." Both Olaf and Neela start to shake their own heads as they get sour looks upon their faces. Jalian goes white as she watches three of her fellow IronHomers seeming to come to an agreement. "But what would......." He statement stops as she realizes exactly what it is that Bertina would have to gain and what her outspoken thoughts have been all along.
Flea Sunday January 7th, 2007 11:12:02 PM
Flea just stares at the folks of Ironholme, then looks to her feet. As she turns the handle of her blade over in her hand, she mutters under her breath, "twisted threads...twisted threads..."
Grymash d20+2=7 Monday January 8th, 2007 1:14:30 AM
ooc: been saving my gold ginglies for a long time for something nice. funny, Gry's level 9 and his most powerful item is a +1 adamantine double axe. The cash in this treasure is the best thing for him. Nothing else he would use. Except he may be interested in the necromantic jar of dust, being a cleric of Gargul and all. ------------------
Grymash wonders what the others have planned to do. He hasn't the slightest clue. He looks around to see if any food is being served at this gathering.
Murdock Monday January 8th, 2007 12:55:37 PM
Murdock walks out with Rayla, thinking that if Bertina puts up a fight, he may be needed to subdue her.
Trellus Monday January 8th, 2007 3:45:34 PM
"If I correctly guess the identity of person who poisoned this man, would you confirm it?"
Trellus asks the question with a frown. Logically, a 'No' gets him back to Bertina. But he's not at all sure he wants that answer.
Gilan and Ciaran Monday January 8th, 2007 11:46:30 PM
Gilan tries to fight back the waves of shame that he feels for opening his mouth without thinking. Finding anything else to look at he tries to keep his eyes off the others in the temple. Even going as far as to pick at some imaginary dirt upon his clothes.
Ciaran continues to snore on, not caring about what is going on. He is probably the only one that is going to be well rested it seems.
The Woes of IronHome. (DM Jim) Monday January 8th, 2007 11:53:44 PM
Rayla looks at Murdock as he follows her out but says nothing. She does not really need a keeper but at least he is staying out of trouble this way. She marches off to the house that Bertina lives in, stopping to knock on the door. After a few minutes and no answer she pushes the door open to find the small house stripped nearly bare. "You idiot." She does not bother to say anything as she races back to the temple to let Jalian know the bad news.
Being inside the temple and not outside where all the people are at, Grymash can only find the body of the Elder that could be eaten. That is if he would want to eat the dead.
Trellus on the other hand has a sinking feeling that he knows where this might be going. He askes his next question of the hammer avatar. Knowing that he is not going to like this he can already see his next question and this one will not bode well for IronHome.
The hammer does not seem to be bothered by the question within a question, but answers in a clear voice.
"Yes."
[It will take at least one days post to get back to the temple and give the news to everyone. It is possible that those there may already have an answer.]
Murdock d20+10=30 Tuesday January 9th, 2007 9:43:18 AM
Murdock smiles at Rayla, guessing her thoughts as he exits the temple with her, and walks in companionable silence with her until they reach Bertina's house.
As Murdock gets his first looks at the empty house, his mind begins working. Bertina curses and then storms off. Murdock remains behind, knowing that something is always left behind when someone lives at a place for a long period of time. He also knows of powerful arcane magics that could help track Bertina's movements if he could find some personal belonging of hers. He starts to methodically search the house, looking for anything personal that Bertina may have left behind, down to a single hair shed from her head. (Search DC= 30 Natural 20)
CDM Jerry Tuesday January 9th, 2007 11:55:58 AM
Would the ADM please do the report for last week's posting and email me to let me know it's done. Thanks friends :)
Jake Tuesday January 9th, 2007 4:40:52 PM
Jake claps Trellus on the back. "Sweet Shade, looks like you're on the right track, here. Now, we just gotta guess the right person. But you already guessed Bertina...so it has to be one of the other girls. Can't be Rilay..."
Posting Report (ADM MikeK) Tuesday January 9th, 2007 9:57:03 PM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of Jan 1 - 5
Name MTWTF
DM JimW OXOXX
Trellus OXOXX
Tishe OOOOO
Jake OOOXO
Gilan OOXXX
Grymash OOXOX
Flea OXOOX
Murdock OXOXX
[X = post, O = no post]
ADM Note - Holiday weeks are over now. SteveK(Tishe) in transit till Jan 20. MikeK theoretically subbing.
Flea Tuesday January 9th, 2007 9:57:27 PM
Flea studies the tips of her embroidered boots, but doesn't miss a word that is being spoken.
Trellus Tuesday January 9th, 2007 9:59:47 PM
Two questions left. Its not Bertina? Maybe the name is wrong?
Trellus is running out of ideas. Maybe something different.
"Did the one who poisoned this man do so by the command of another?"
Gilan and Ciaran Wednesday January 10th, 2007 12:19:18 AM
Gilan keeps himself quiet this time around as he is truely interested in what the larger plot is here. He has an idea but will not voice it as soon Trell is on the same route.
The right question, the right answer. (DM Jim) Wednesday January 10th, 2007 12:24:39 AM
As Rayla races back to the temple, Murdock stays behind to check things out. As he stumbles through the few items that are left he is not fully prepared for what he finds. There are a number of small chests left behind, the lids open on two of them with clothes in disarray...the other three closed still. He also finds a large amount of herbs and other household items that she did not take along. What he does not find is what should bother him most...no hair or other parts of her remain...except for one black feather he finds in the corner.
In the temple the other quiet back down as Trellus asks his next question. There are held breathes as you all wait for the answer for this question. The hammer flares a little as it gets a little dimmer, telling all that the answers are almost done.
"Yes."
[Got the newest module approved so should be moving onto that...but this will be important in the future...I think. :)]
Grymash Wednesday January 10th, 2007 2:02:27 AM
While contemplating his navel, Grymash finds nothing of interest. He looks to Trellus for an explaination to what his hammer is talking about.
Murdock Wednesday January 10th, 2007 11:38:04 AM
Murdock knows that finding nothing of the occupant of a house is very strange indeed. Murdock raises an eyebrow in curiosity and then bends down to pick up the feather. He is no nature lover, but perhaps one of his friends can identify the source of the feather. He cast detect magic and walks through the house again, looking for any magical auras.
If Murdock finds no magical aura's he will move to the three closed chest and inspect them. If the chest are locked, he will leave them alone. Otherwise, Murdock will open all the chest to inspect there contents for lingering signs of Bertina.
After he has gathered up as much information as possible about the contents of the house, Murdock makes his way back to the temple, with the feather in hand, and questions on his mind.
Trellus Wednesday January 10th, 2007 9:11:17 PM
Last question. Time for a wild thread.
"Did the Red Claws order the death of this man?"
Gilan and Ciaran Thursday January 11th, 2007 1:16:40 AM
Gilan frowns at the newest question, wondering if it is possible. He nods as it very well could be possible that the RedClaws had something to do with the old man's death.
Ciaran wakes and looks around, finding nothing different really from when he went to sleep. Two people are missing but that is not enough to bother him.
The Good and the Bad. (DM Jim) 5d8(7+3+7+5+8)=30 Thursday January 11th, 2007 1:30:47 AM
Murdock is still going around the house when he finds the feather. He stoops to pick it up and a blast goes off in his face. The whole interior of the small house is blasted and left smoking or charred as the magic blasts the inside(30 damage, Reflex 24 for half damage). Once you are able to see again you notice that the few unopened chests have been neatly scorched and some of the contents emptied out on the floor, some of them liquids.
Trellus asks the last question of the hammer and it flickers for a few minutes before giving it's answers.
"No."
This last bit of news may put some questions in order but also open up a whole lot more of them. About this time, Rayla comes bursting through the door out of breathe. She glances to everyone a nasty look upon her face. "Bertina is gone, her house cleaned out pretty much and her couple of apprentices with her." Her eyes flash with hatred as she has never liked the woman but kept her tongue as the Elder had asked.
The three witnesses shake thier heads and begin to speak amongst themselves. You catch bits of it and get the general idea that they do not believe that the pack had anything to do with the murder. It is not hard to guess as to who they think was the principle player. Jalian shakes her head and then looks to the rest. "She is gone and we cannot chase her down." Though she has a worried look upon her face she also seems a little relieved. "Bertina would not dirty her own hands to commit a crime anyways...she lets others do that for her...remember the mysterious way her teacher died." She leaves it at that as she motions to the door. "Maybe it is time to rejoin the others and wish my Grandfather a fond farewell." She moves to the door not bothering to look to Rayla who's mouth is twitching. It is not hard to read her thoughts as they are plain upon her face...if she ever sees Bertina again it will be for the last time.
Murdock on fire! (11/35HP) d20+5=20 d20+18=36 d8+1=2 d8+1=6 Thursday January 11th, 2007 10:05:34 AM
(/ooc all for the want of picking up the feather before I cast the detect....../sigh!)
Murdock is at the epicenter of the fireball as it explodes. (Spellcraft DC=36 to determine it was a fireball) He feels the intense heat start to blister his skin, as his feet rise up off the floor. He is blown hard against the far wall, angry red blood oozes from his torn body.
Murdock struggles in wretched agony for a few moments before he finally stands again. His silvery white tatoos pulse a brilliant blue and then fade back to normal, giving the drow some much needed healing. (Rerolling the 1 for healing) Feeling slightly better, Murdock's body is still bloodied and beaten.
He cast a detect magic, and scans the liquids and the remaining contents of the chest for magical auras. After the brief scanning of the chest, he leaves the house, on his way back to the temple, still limping badly.
Jake d20+7=9 Thursday January 11th, 2007 3:06:20 PM
Jake nods. "Bertina.. not very nice person. Ah could tell that 'bout her from the start." Then the fireball goes off! "What in the heck was that! Must be an attack!" He draws his sword and rushes off towards the sound.
Trellus Thursday January 11th, 2007 5:35:05 PM
Trellus follows Jalian's lead, and makes for the door to leave.
At the sound of the explosion, he looks over at Rayla and Jalian. "What's that?"
Jake is running toward the sound, but heck, it might just be fireworks or something.
Grymash Thursday January 11th, 2007 10:21:24 PM
Grymash turns his head toward the sound of the explosion. "Hmmm, dat not better be Gry's supper gettin' burnt!!" He sniffs the air. His snout aroused by the first scent of broiled flesh. "Piggie Dumps! Gry's supper gettin' burnt!! GRRRRR!!" The half-orc quickly turns and exits the temple to follow the smoke trail.
Gilan and Ciaran Thursday January 11th, 2007 11:00:34 PM
Gilan is also exiting the temple, having taken the time to let Ciaran know that they are leaving. This had been a moot point really as the wolf had been on his feet before he got to within five feet of him.
So they exit together and then their is the sound of an explosion, though he is not sure what is in that direction. He looks to the others, but Jake who is already racing off. "Ahhh...that had better not be the Oglian back for another round." He does not really want to see those ants again or at least for awhile.
Fire burns....:). (DM Jim) Saturday January 13th, 2007 12:45:56 AM
Murdock casts his simple spell and searches the room for any other signs of magic. Disturbing his senses, is the fact that some of the liquids that are even now coming together...are magical. He can see nothing else of magical make or otherwise in the house. The few fires that burn inside of the metal house are starting to spread through the little things that were left behind.
Jake runs into Murdock as he is limping back to the temple. Both of you are only about a hundred yards from the metal house that once belonged to Bertina and it has flames, though not big, licking out of the couple of windows and door. Grymash comes upon the two just a couple of minutes after Jake had found Murdock in his not so healthy state. At least it was not his supper burning.
The rest of the group are back near the temple still but can just barely make out the starting of smoke in the distance of the village. Jalian and Rayla are quick to start getting the people together to stop the fire and you notice Rayla shaking her head. Jalian is the one that speaks. "Now you know why the houses here are made of metal...don't burn as easily and spread...just get really, really hot depending on the size of the fire." Soon she has a brigade of citizens marching off with buckets in hand and a few starting to mumble a few incantations under their breathe.
Trellus 2d8(7+7)+10=24 Monday January 15th, 2007 12:59:11 PM
Trellus nods to himself as Jalian explains the use of metal houses to control the spread of fires. As long as you got the metal, he finishes silently. No way Rattledam has that much iron laying around.
The burgundy vested cleric trots along with everyone toward the scene of the fire, and soon spots the scorched dark elf. His first thought is not a generous one...Light. That dude better not have ripped our picks to make friends here. But, Trellus keeps the thought to himself as he moves over to Murdock.
"Help you out?" he asks, and then casts a healing spell on the drow. [CMW - 24 hp healed]
Murdock (35/35 HP) Monday January 15th, 2007 6:06:22 PM
Murdock observes Trellus's stern look as he approaches, but can not guess it's source. The drow smiles greatfully as Trellus sends an large amount of healing energy through his body. As Murdock's mind clears and the agony of being roasted alive fades to an unpleasant memory, the surface drow relates the events that led to the explosion.
Murdock starts quietly, " As you all know, I left with Rayla, to come and find Bertina. I did not know if my services would be required to apprehend the villian. After we determined that Bertina had left, Rayla went back to the temple. I stayed behind, and surveyed the house, looking for traces of Bertina, that I might scry her whereabouts." Murdock shakes his head, obviously frustrated, "but there where no remenants of human occupation of that house, its like it hasn't been lived in for years. The only thing I found was a bird like feather, but when I reached to pick it up, the room exploded in a fireball!" Murdock crys out, "ALL FOR THE WANT OF A DETECT MAGIC! I AM SUCH A FOOL!" scolding himself for his stupidity more severely than he deserves.
Flea Monday January 15th, 2007 6:40:11 PM
The rogue trots after her pack as they follow the sound of the explosion and then the smoke from the strange metal house. She winces at the sight of the singed drow, but knows, from experience, that Trellus can ease the strange magikers hurts.
Despite her best attempts, she can not keep a smile from creeping across her face. Another curious cat! she thinks to herself.
Standing next to the cleric, she tugs on his tabard, and enquires, "can we go home now?"
Grymash Monday January 15th, 2007 9:00:15 PM "Feather fire?! Feathers no burst inta fires!? Do thays? Murduck's brain pan boiled overs. Talkin' crazy Murdockers is." Then the half-orc thinks a little more. "If Murlock wants uh magical divination, Gry could haves done its for ya! Gry could have learned yaz."
Turning to Flea after her comment. "Yeah, Flea right. When pack go back ta Rattleham?"
Gilan and Ciaran Tuesday January 16th, 2007 12:02:09 AM
Gilan moves along with towards the source of the fire. He does not lend a hand as the people here seem to be able to handle it just fine. As they come upon Murdock, he wonders what type of trouble they have gotten themselve into now. "I have to agree with Flea...I yearn for home as well." He stretches lightly as he watches the villagers go to work. Seems like a metal home would be hot, not just because of the fire either.
Ciaran padded along as well but stops to sit on the grass and watch. He would not get closer, well maybe if one of his pack was in trouble...but fire bothered him.
The long wait....is over. (DM Jim) Tuesday January 16th, 2007 12:14:03 AM
The villagers are quick to put out the fire and most go back to the celebration. Nothing was destroyed and the house will be liveable in a few days time.
Jalian and Rayla move off to the side with the Bloodpack in tow. Jalian smiles as she looks to each member of the pack in turn. "I want to thank you once again for everything that you have done. Both for us earlier and then with the death of my Grandfather." She glances around the village that will soon be under her command and shivers. "They council has decided that I will be given the position of Elder tomorrow and work towards the betterment of IronHome." Glancing to Rayla who gives her a smile and grips her shoulder lightly. "I have many around me to help keep me grounded and make the right choices. Do not think that IronHome will not give you shelter in the future if you need it while in the grass. We may provide the Barons with warriors and rapke but we still are able to make our own choices." It was something that her grandfather had been very proud off and something that had gotten him killed.
The rest of the night is uneventful and passes quickly, but you get warm welcomes and conversation by almost all of the citizens. It seems that things are not as bad here as it would have first seemed and that you may have won a future friend.
In the morning you find Rayla at the door of the place that you have been staying. She ushers in a group of seven women with a mighty breakfast, twelve large platters of food. Most of it you recognize as leftovers from last night, prepared in different ways for breakfast. "There is a grass ship here unloading supplies and the Captain has said that you may have passage aboard to Rattledam." She settles into a chair to wait for the group and possibly answer any questions that may have been left over from last night or this morning.
Then it is time to go.....HOME.
Jake Tuesday January 16th, 2007 1:10:39 AM
"Rattledam," Jake exhales... "Rattledam! This is great!" Jake pounds a fist in the air and pats his nearest companion heartily on the back. "Bloodpack, we're heading home, finally! And...we come in style, on a big ol' boat! Ah bet the blackpack'll be in tears of envy." Jake laughs happily. "And we left this town pretty good, didn't we guys? Ah mean, we saved the kids, uncovered a murderer, and spread good will into raider lands. And we came here only because we were lost." Jake chuckles. "And ah think we've seen the last of those ant-guys for a while."
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