Its Vomit Time! (DM MikeK) 4d20(2+7+12+7)+10=38 Friday November 2nd, 2007 8:27:44 AM
Berlon moves to the edge of the ship, and calls for the crowd to disperse. A giant Vauhwyt echoes his suggestion, while Oni waits nervously for something to happen.
Vorelle anticipates a fight, and regards the priest more closely, suspecting a darker purpose. However, she doesn't see anything in the man's actions that indicate more that way too much ale.
Theo, thinking along the same lines as Vorelle, readies a spell - just in case.
Berlon upstages the priest, dramatically telling the sot to go home. The priest reddens, and glances dangerously at his guards - none of whom move from their positions.
Vauhwyt asks the guards directly what is wrong with their charge. None answer, or for that matter, even look their way. The one at the gangplank is keeping his eyes focused on the spot where the gangplank meets the ship. Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { They are a disciplined group, and very hard to read. But the lack of eye contact, the tightly controlled faces, and their unwillingness to draw the longswords at their sides indicate that the four guards are embarrassed }
It turns out Vorelle's perception is right on the money. Despite the urging of Berlon and Vauhwyt, the crowd takes the insults and the sudden short flight of one of their own as an invitation - one they plan to accept. They push forward angrily. Three immediately end up face down on the dock, missing several teeth. In identical moves, three of the guards grabbed a foe, shoving his head down while bringing a knee up. The impact knocked out their opponents.
The crowd turns on the three guards. The fourth remains at the gangplank. None of the quartet make any move to draw their swords, making the hundred to three combat even-odds.
And then....
Theo casts his spell.
The entire dock area bordering the Dark Horse is enveloped in a bank of fog. A few seconds later, the entire dock area bordering the Dark Horse is covered in that morning's breakfast, accompanied by the heartfelt retching noises of a hundred or so souls.
Needless to say, the crowd disperses.
The priest collapses to his hands and knees. Based on his production now, he must have drank a LOT of ale.
One guards also gets sick. The other three don't. One moves to and supports the sick comrade at the gangplank. The other two grab up the priest. With an almost apologetic look toward the crew of the Dark Horse, they move off, dragging their charge with them.
Theodore and Macaw d20+3=22 Friday November 2nd, 2007 10:19:35 AM
Usually incompetent at readying body language, Theodore is able to interpret the guards' discomfort. (Sense Motive 22)
After the crowd disperses, and the guards have taken away the drunken priest, Theodore says, "Let them go. They weren't a serious threat, and we have more important matters."
Oni Friday November 2nd, 2007 1:48:05 PM
Oni watches as ther people lose their breakfast, and all else in their guts. The fog seems to cover most of it, but the smell gets irritatingly worse. As the fog clears so does the docks. Oni stays where he is, still feeling uncomfortable.
Berlon Friday November 2nd, 2007 10:17:33 PM
"Ew. Gross."
The gnome wrinkles his prodigious nose and heads back below decks.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20=19 Saturday November 3rd, 2007 11:28:10 AM
Sense motive 19.
The liontaur and familiar watch and listen for a moment.
Mookie says, "Boss! Boss! I have a question!"
Vauhwyt says, "Yeah?"
Mookie says, "It's sort of a dumb question."
Vauhwyt says, "Mookie, there are no dumb questions."
Mookie says, "Okay. How much muck can a priest upchuck, if the priest is one dumb f--"
"MOOKIE!" shouts Vauhwyt, interrupting the raven. "Stop that right now!"
She stuffs the rude bird into his pouch and ties it shut. "That WAS a stupid question, after all," she says.
Vauhwyt steps away from the stench cloud. She calls after the guards, "Take your besotted priest away and return when he is soberr. Or better yet, just go home." Her accent reveals that she feels a little bad for the soldiers.
She waits for the cloud to clear, and then suggests to her friends that it is time to go anyway.
Vorelle d20+13=23 d20+13=14 Monday November 5th, 2007 12:48:50 AM
Vorelle glances uneasily at Theo, and makes a mental note to stop thinking of him as a bumbling apprentice. He is now a mage of not inconsiderable power.
As the crowd disperses, she looks about, watching and listening for signs of trouble.
Spot 23, Listen 14 [natural 1]
Posting Report for 10/29/07 Monday November 5th, 2007 7:54:15 PM
SMTWTFS
Time to Go (DM MikeK) Monday November 5th, 2007 9:21:02 PM
The crowd clears rapidly, and the priest is hauled away by his bodyguards. After a bit, the fog cloud also disappates, leaving a dock empty of all but the leavings of the sickened crowd.
Vomit on the dock is not all that uncommon around here though, and soon a couple dockboys are sent down with buckets to wash the stuff into the sea.
With Theo having very efficiently ending the commotion, all that is left is to make what final preparations the party deems necessary and head for the Arena.
Oni Tuesday November 6th, 2007 5:42:13 AM
Oni cant help but be excited about the m,eeting. New experience for him. Many people making a decision, more than his small group of companions. And he knew how much trouble that always was.
Mixed in is the feeling of the pending attack on the city. Dread at the loss of so much life. Hopefully thye would be victorious in the end. Hopefully...
Berlon Tuesday November 6th, 2007 8:35:57 AM
"One day, one day soon..." Berlon says to no one in particular while taking a sip of tea, "there will no longer be blood on the streets of Dirt City."
"After that, we'll work on the vomit."
He takes a long sip of tea.
"By the way, has anyone talked to Dietrich about things? It might be a good idea..."
He blows on his tea to cool it.
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday November 6th, 2007 11:01:31 AM
"Yes," Theodore agrees with Berlon. "We should visit Dietrich and get him to come along. We should also drop in on Olyn and Rose and try to convince them to come with us."
He watches the vomit being cleaned off the dock and shouts over the rail, "Sorry! I'm sorry about that!"
Vauhwyt Tuesday November 6th, 2007 11:22:41 AM
"I already visited him once to let him know what happened in the swamps. We should also stop by to tell him our latet news and see if he wants to come."
"I wish Rose were around, and Umbriel and Olyn."
Vorelle Tuesday November 6th, 2007 7:08:47 PM
Vorelle disappears below, briefly, to say goodbye to Champ. "B-be good," she tells him.
Then she comes back up to join her friends as they get ready for the big meeting.
House Meet (DM MikeK) Tuesday November 6th, 2007 8:12:49 PM
The time is upon them, and the party traverses the short distance to the Arena Above.
A young human female, dressed in simple brown robes bearing the symbol of Wardd steps out from a nearby archway and approaches deferentially. "You are the Dark Horse Guild?" she asks quietly, clearly expecting an affirmation. "I am to escort you to the summit. Please follow."
Sense Motive - DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { The woman, well girl really, shows no signs of dishonesty or ill intent. }
The young woman turns, and walks back to the archway, and then turns to her right, following the main concourse around the Arena. The wide stone corridor is a familiar sight to those who have lived for any time in Dirt City, and not very surprising to those who have not. It is the same type of large hallway that likely circles every other arena and stadium in the Wold. During any event, the concourse would be crowded with spectators. But today, it is empty. The footfalls of the Dark Horse Guild and their escort echo along their route.
The woman turns again, entering an unremarkable side door set into an unobtrusive corner of the concourse. It is a stairway, and she descends to another door. She leads the group through a series of plain stone corridors and plain wooden doors of almost maze like complexity.
Int Check DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { She is taking a circular route, but you will be able to retrace the path, if needs be.}
Another door, and another hallway. But this one is wider, perhaps 15', and leads to a opening bright with sunlight. The woman heads that way, and the group follows. Stepping through the open tunnel, the heroes find themselves on the floor of the arena. Empty stands rise above the group in all directions. It is a somewhat eeire feeling for those who've only seen the arena packed with spectators. Almost hollow. However, the Dark Horse Guild are not the only ones on the arena floor. Filing in from multiple directions are quite a few other groups of people, each led by another brown robed figure. Like the party, each group moves toward the center of the arena floor, led by their guides in a manner so that none of groups approach within 40 or 50 feet of each other. As each group approaches the center, their guides stop. The young woman leading the party also stops, holding up her right hand to signal the party to do the same.
Across the dirt floor of the Arena, the groups assemble, forming a large circle.
To the party's right stands Jeraldh and four human males none in the group have seen before. The ablino wears black garments, calling out his paleness. He stands ramrod straight, his eyes taking in the members of the other groups in that calculating fashion he has. His four comrades flank him, two to each side. They are watching everyone else. All five are armed with shortsword and dagger.
To Jeraldh's right are the Teeth - Vox Requin and four guards. Vox stands comfortably, a six-foot tall, forty-something Amazon with long and lustrous black hair, and a muscular, athletic frame. Her large white teeth, square jaw, and pale grey eyes hint at an ancestry other than human. She stands proudly, but her eyes flick worriedly in the party's direction. She is armed with a longsword and a shortsword. Her guards carry - apparently a standard for the meeting - shortsword and dagger.
On Vox's right are the four leaders of the House of Wolves, and a single guard. They stand with quiet confidence - the stocky Mr Smoker, the rapier thin Mr Rapper, the effete Mr Smooth, and the tall, commanding shadow of Mr Silent. Smoker is apparently unarmed. The other three carry longswords.
Next to the Wolves stand an insanely fat dwarf, a thinnish man with terrible scars marking his face and hands, and three normal looking dwarves. Despite his girth, the fat dwarf moves as if he owns the place, and appears completely unconcerned about anyone else in the place. The thin man eyes the party carefully. He carries a longsword. The dwarves bear war hammers.
Next to them is a swashbuckling human with flowing black hair and black leathers. He carries a cutlass, and the arrogant sneer on his face never relaxes. Local Knowledege DC 12 - Highlight to display spoiler: { The man must be Spike, spokesman for the House of Darts. He's Well heard of in the City, especially since most of the other members try to remain unknown (its difficult to spy or assassinate someone if they know who you are)} Four more of the standard shortsword bearing guards attend to him.
To his right, a figure encased in a large, flowing brown cloak. A hood covers the figure's head, and a face plate guards against any sight of the features. The cloak is formless, and other than the fact the figure appears to be about 5 and 3/4 feet tall, nothing else can be determined. Standing next to the Cloaked Figure are four bodyguards.
To its right, Kassif and Neezer of the House of Merchants, accompanied by three guards. Kassif's girth rivals the fat dwarf, although the Merchant's robe are of much more expensive material and weave. Neezer inclines his head toward the party, a little smile playing across his lips.
Striding to the center of the formed circle is Clu'eth, priest of Wardd. As he approaches, the various guides retreat back to the arena's tunnels, leaving the leaders of Dirt City to their own counsel.
Vauhwyt d20=10 Tuesday November 6th, 2007 9:38:44 PM
At the entrance to the Arena, before entering, Vauhwyt casts a couple Message cantrips so that the party members can whisper to each other very quietly.
Vauhwyt wears her spiked armor and her spiked gauntlet, and she has her concealed weapons and her buckler, but she leaves her spear at home.
As they enter the arena, Vauhwyt makes sure that Mookie is secured shut in his pouch.
She gets no special vibe from the acolyte who leads them in. And since she is untrained, Vauhwyt cannot attempt a DC12 Know Local check.
Inside, she looks over the leaders and tries to assign them to houses.
"Jeraldh for the Keys, of course," she whispers to her friends. "Then the Teeth and the Wolves. Then the Knives, with those dwarves, for sure. Then the Darts, I'm guessing, and the Cloaks. Finally, the Merchants."
It actually calms her to think that the Dark Horse Guild has had dealings with five of the seven power centers -- six of eight, counting the Church -- and made enemies of none of them.
Vauhwyt bows to Father Clueth and murmurs to her friends, "This is the priests' party. Let them start it off, I suggest."
Theodore and Macaw d20+3=9 d20+4=17 d20+11=12 Wednesday November 7th, 2007 9:38:22 AM
(Sense Motive 9, Intelligence 17, Knowledge Local 12)
Theodore follows the guide through the maze and then out onto the arena floor. He feels his nerves begin to rise as they stand before the most powerful people in the City. Swallowing becomes a task for him.
"That's Spike, of the Darts, the one with the long black hair and black leathers," he whispers via Vauhwyt's message spell.
He has no issue with Vauhwyt's decision to let Clu'eth start things off. He wouldn't know what to say, anyhow. He tries to keep from fidgeting whenever someone looks his way.
Berlon Wednesday November 7th, 2007 1:38:35 PM
The gnome frowns slightly but intentionally at Vauhwyt and then Theodore. He then sighs.
"Fine," he whispers via the cantrip.
He moves forward slightly.
"Greetings, friends, those already known and those unmet." He smiles widely. "We do not wish to speak out of turn, especially given the... breadth of this meeting, but there is something you should be made aware of."
"From both first-hand encounters and celestial divinations performed myself, I can tell you that a not insignificant force of lizardmen plan on attacking the city before the sun rises tomorrow."
He looks around slowly. "To be honest, I don't believe we have enough time to prepare as it is, so any time given to discussion about this other matter could perhaps be tabled until the city is secure?"
He pauses a moment. "I'm not sure any of us has given you any reason to believe we would fabricate such a story."
He smiles politely, obviously done.
"Oh, er..." he stammers, having almost forgotten, "has anyone remembered to bring Dietrich the Bear? I was rather counting on him being here today..."
Oni Wednesday November 7th, 2007 1:40:41 PM
Oni follows the woman dilligently. He was lost within moments. No stars or sky to help with direction, he got lost easily enough.
Within sight of the arena itself, his blood begins to heat involuntarily. The smells. Although mostly human, still there were, feral scents as well. He grips hus halberd tighter, trying to keep up a good front.
Upon entering into the arena, flashbacks of terrible fighting flood his memory. Old wounds pulse where scars are now. His blood races through his body, and he can barely control his emotions, or can he.
Standing there looking at the others gathered before him he could not, would not allow them to attack him. The Drow had taught this Centaur well, fight weell or die in the arena. He takes a mock defensive stance with the halberd at the ready. Waiting for one opening and he would attack.
Oni hears nothing, sees nothing. At the same time alert as a cat on the prowl. Waiting...
So a part of his past rises to overwhelm him. Training in the arts of nature, the only barrier between his rage, and the foes that face him.
Vorelle d20+2=19 d20+2=8 Wednesday November 7th, 2007 9:26:37 PM
Vorelle finds herself trusting her guide, though the twists and turns of their route has her all turned about.
She glances about her with curiosity. Though born and raised in Dirt City, she has never actually visited the arena--lacking the inclination, and often the money.
She stands with her friends and watches the tableau unfold. As is her habit, she places herself at the back, and tries to be as inconspicuous as possible.
She waits for someone else to do the talking.
Greetings (DM MikeK) Wednesday November 7th, 2007 10:15:40 PM
Vauhwyt halts just prior to entering the arena floor, and casts a Message spell. The group's guide notes the action, but doesn't seem concerned or even surprised.
The liontaur quietly labels the various Houses represented, and suggests allowing Clu'eth to start things off.
Theo feels his nerves begin to rise as they stand before the most powerful people in the City. He readily agrees with Vauhwyt's suggestion, and waits.
Likewise, Vorelle waits for the others to make the first move.
Oni finds the memories of previous arena visits, and not as a spectator, threatening to take over the present. The taur assumes a defensive stance and waits. The guards of the Keys (to the right) and the Merchants (to the left) do not miss the signs, and keep a wary eye on the dark horse.
Berlon feels the need to move things along. He speaks up, revealing that the anticipated attack will occur before sunrise tomorrow, and asking that this meeting be tabled until the city is secure.
The reaction from the delegations can only be described as puzzled.
The fat dwarf snorts. "Well what did you think we're talking about, the weather?" Meanwhile, almost simultaneously, the Cloaked Figure, Jeraldh, and Clu'eth reply "its the morning after tomorrow." In response to that, murmurs arise from the Merchants and Wolves, as the leaders of those two groups hold internal conversations.
None choose to address the question of Dietrich.
Clu'eth raises his good hand, and slowly pirouettes, attempting to recapture the attention of group. The man's face is carefully controlled, and his withered hand is hidden in the folds of his robe. Sense Motive DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { He's nervous. }
"Berlon is correct that we should get moving." He clears his thoat, and speaks again, a more ritualized greeting. "Wardd thanks you for coming," he states formally. "We are all present, is it agreed?"
A voice emanates from the Cloaked Figure, a gender neutral voice that could pass for male, female, or even a child. "No" Clu'eth, startled by the denial, looks about, obviously counting groups. The Figure continues, each word carefully formed and slowly enunciated. "Seven Houses. Eight Groups. Too many."
Naturally, the entire assembly turns to regard the Dark Horse Guild.
"There does seem to be one too many groups here, Clu'eth," the swashbuckler drawls, before looking over at the party and addressing them. "Y'all may have appointed yourselves as a new House, but I don't recall anyone else agreeing to it." With that, the black clad man stares pointedly at Jeraldh. But the albino makes no comment.
Mr Smoker does. "The Dark Horse are friends of many Houses."
"Cloaks claim no friendship," responds the Figure, and the swashbuckler beams triumphantly. "I don't recall them doing any favors for the Darts either," he adds.
"For which we are all grateful," shoots back the fat dwarf, earning a sour glare from the swashbuckler.
Clu'eth raises his good hand again.
"The Temple of Wardd invites the group calling itself the Dark Horse Guild as witnesses to the impending crises," he declares formally. "They bear information of enemy forces and intent, and have experience fighting against them. Wardd seeks their story and their opinion."
"Speak yes. Vote no." the Figure replies.
Swashbuckler beams again, and addresses the party. "How 'bout it?" he asks. "You all agree you're here to bring us up to speed and then get out of the way? Or do you claim House status and voting rights?" The last sentence is spoken is a disbelieving tone, practically goading. The party can practically feel the stare of Jeraldh boring into them. Neither he nor any of the others seem to react to the swashbuckler's baiting tone. Sense Motive DC 17 Highlight to display spoiler: {Jeraldh REALLY wants no reaction to the swashbuckler's baiting.}
"Or perhaps," the fat Kassif interjects calmly, "your group will find commencement of this conference as the perfect opportunity to announce your affiliation with one of the existing Houses, in the interest of communal harmony and the preservation of our fair demense."
The assembly awaits an answer. Will the Dark Horses declare themselves a new House? Will they affiliate? Or will they declare themselves to be impartial newsbearers?
Vauhwyt Thursday November 8th, 2007 7:36:00 AM
"That's an easy question to answerr." says Vauhwyt, her accent revealing both her confidence and a slight undercurrent of nervousness. "We are not a House. We do not compete with the Houses, all of whom we respect."
"We are affiliated with all Houses who need help and ask for it. Sometimes they don't even have to ask. Our goal is to benefit all the City. If we have not directly helped the Cloaks and the Darts, then it is only because we have not had the opportunity."
"And although we have information, we are much more than mere newsbearers. We are protectors, defenders, and advisers. We were invited here for news, yes, and also, as we understand it, to give advice. Accept our help and advice, or not, it makes no nevermind to us. We will act, as we have acted, to help the entire city. That makes us friends to all here, and enemies to none."
"If that also makes us somewhat powerful, if it gives us a measure of influence, hey, that's fine with us too."
"We arre, if the good father will not be offended, much like the church. We serve all and hurt none but enemies of the City."
Theodore and Macaw d20+3=18 d20+3=20 Thursday November 8th, 2007 9:04:10 AM
(Sense Motive 18, 20)
"We have more sway here than they let on," he mumbles for only his friends to hear via message.
Out loud, he says, "As Vauhwyt said, we are here not to hinder the process, but to act as a voice for the people of Dirt City, those not affiliated with any House, but who still love this City." His nerves tighten as eyes are drawn to him. "Please do not think of us as anyone who wishes to usurp power from any House. We only want what's best for the City."
He then turns to Clu'eth. "Please continue, sir. You have our support." He hopes to confer some confidence in the priest, knowing he is backed by the Dark Horses.
Oni Thursday November 8th, 2007 1:43:57 PM
Oni fins himself sizing up everyone. D3finately the most dangerous is he who speaks out of mockery. It will be his guards Oni will need to worry about, used to fighting their masters fights.
But he stands listening. Calm surrounds him. His friends are talking, which is good. Patience Centaur. Yes just keep thinking that.
Berlon Thursday November 8th, 2007 7:11:05 PM
Berlon looks confused. "Vote? Vote on what? Technically I'm not even a resident of the city, but if I have a vote I'd like to vote for more money for guard patrol. Young Theo and I were accosted by a group of half-orcs roaming the street and had to defend ourselves!"
He catches himself mid-ramble. "But you're probably not interested in that."
With that he will recount the tale of the recent encounter with the lizardmen, including details about Thliss-Ka and the numbers they are dealing with.
Not so fast, my friend (DM MikeK) Thursday November 8th, 2007 8:59:03 PM
Vauhwyt and Theo make it plain the group doesn't want to become a new House and also doesn't want to affiliate with one.
Oni waits and watches.
Berlon goes off on a gnomian tangent, but sees his audience isn't in the mood. Instead he begins to recount the tale of their recent encounter with the lizardfolk. But he doesn't get but two sentences in before everyone calls out "Wait!".
Clu'eth shrugs at the party. "We need to move to a more secure spot before discussing these matters. Let us proceed." The priest claps his hands twice, and the floor of the arena begins a smooth descent. In a couple of seconds, the party can note that the whole convention has been standing on some kind of platform centered in the floor of the arena, and that platform is now descending to a lower level. No one in the any of the other Houses appear surprised or concerned about this development.
Soundlessly, the platform descends down a shaft. The floor of the arena is about 10' thick, and the shaft opens up on the north end and the platform stops. Led by Clu'eth, everyone files off of the platform and into a large, circular rotunda, about 150' in diameter. The platform rises back into its original position, enclosing the delegation in the space. Lights (Continual Light Spell) scattered liberally across the domed ceiling bathe the entire area. Visibility is quite good, and the multiple light sources ensure even the sides and corners of the space are lit up.
In the north side of this space, opposite the platform, is flat wall with three sets of plain oaken double doors. Clu'eth leads the assemblage across the space to the doors. All three sets are open, revealing a 60' deep, 110' wide square room on the other side. A large circular pedastal like table, about 30' in diameter, dominates the center of the room. Oak chairs, with unpadded arm rest and ornately carved high backs surround the table. On the right side of the room are scattered several smaller tables and with stools. The left side is open space. Like the atrium, the entire room is well lit with Continual Light spells on the ceiling and walls.
The delegations gather in the open space on the left side of the room.
Jeraldh clears his throat. "May we?" he asks Clu'eth, and the cleric nods. At that point, at least one bodyguard in every delegation breaks out at least one wand, and some two or three, and everyone starts casting spells. As some of the bodyguards spread out, holding wands and concentrating carefully on walls, tables, chairs and space, some of the House leaders also begin quiet investigations. Vox, Jeraldh, and Mr. Smooth begin a slow, careful walk around the large room, eyeing the wall.
The investigations take long enough that the bodyguards with wands are required to recast whatever detection spells they are using several times.
Clu'eth stands quietly, waiting for the various Houses to satisfy themselves that the room is safe and secure.
The party appears free to participate as well. It does look like it will be several more minutes before the Houses will be willing to hear Berlon out.
Vorelle d20+13=20 d20+13=22 d20+15=31 Thursday November 8th, 2007 10:51:38 PM
Vorelle is startled when the floor starts to move, but manages (barely) to contain her little "yip!" of surprise.
She watches the spellcasting precautions with bewildered interest. Unable to cast spells herself, she tries to see what she can determine from the more mundane evidence of her senses.
[Spot 20, Listen 22, Survival (to track) 31]
Theodore & Macaw Friday November 9th, 2007 10:51:39 AM
Theodore is also startled by the moving floor, but his love of the abnormal quickly takes over. "Who would have thought?! I wonder if it's magical or mechanical."
He is tempted to use his own magic to sate his curiosity, but decides he should save what he has for later.
When they reach the room, he casts a spell of his own, see invisibility. He then waits for the guards to finish their scrutiny.
"This is all very complex," he comments to his friends. "Kind of exciting, isn't it?"
Spells active: See Invisibility 80 min
Berlon Friday November 9th, 2007 1:00:01 PM
"That's one word for it, Theo..." Berlon says via the cantrip with a slight roll of his eyes. "Do you have a haste spell to get them to move things along?"
Oni Friday November 9th, 2007 2:28:22 PM
As the floor moves so does Oni. Instantly he takes a warriors attack stance ready to cleave the swashbuckler type in two. Something in the back of hisd mind shouts to wait. Oddly he blinks and looks around. Everyone else is calm, and secure. But the floor is falling.
Magic? Some form of mechanical imaginings? Oni's pride is hurt that he reacted in such a way. But he recovers quickly, surmising none of these had ever fought for their life in the arena. The had no idea. With thst thought he slowly calmed himself.
Casting spells in the room, everyone trusting noone. So that is why they did not react when he had, they also had trust issues. Just different ones. Oni decided at that moment, intrigue and politics were not for him. Keep his head down, and ears open. Yep this was not his world.
Vauhwyt Friday November 9th, 2007 6:53:38 PM
Vauhwyt chooses to cast a divination as well -- a holy divination!
Detect Victim
Divination Level: Avenger 0 Components: V, S, M Casting Time: 1 standard action Range: 400 ft. Area: 400-ft.-radius emanation centered on you Duration: 1 round Saving Throw: None Spell Resistance: No
This spell reveals, by direction and distance, the nearest creature in range who yearns for revenge against a specific offender. The material component is a possession, lock of hair, or drop of blood from the offender. The spell ignores the caster and the caster's associates within line of sight. At the DM's option, if the spell is cast with no material component, then the spell may reveal a victim who has prayed to Jancassis for help in revenge.
Vauhwyt casts it on herself, hoping to find anyone who years for revenge against the Dark Horse Guild.
Posting Report for 11/5/07 Monday November 12th, 2007 8:53:42 AM
SMTWTFS
No post tonight - DM Mike Monday November 12th, 2007 5:15:05 PM
Work stinks.
Sorry.
Vauhwyt d20+19=28 Tuesday November 13th, 2007 5:24:00 AM
Since she has the time, the liontaur also casts Alter Self on her familiar, turning him into a monkey. But he is still in his pouch, and Vauhwyt sends Mookie an empathic message that if he says even one peep, he'll be sorry! (intimidate check 28)
ACDM Cayzle OOC Wednesday November 14th, 2007 6:51:07 AM
Friends, the Powers That Be have heard from DM Mike. He is having some real life issues, and we are working hard to get a substitute DM in place asap.
Best hopes for Mike to return as soon as he can. Meanwhile, we'll keep you informed.
Jerry Wednesday November 14th, 2007 12:32:44 PM
Shegger is listed as the ADM. I'll email him and see if he can do his ADM job. ;)
DM Shegger Thursday November 15th, 2007 9:41:43 AM
Hey, all! So, it looks like I will be taking the reins for a bit. If you would all be so nice as to send me your character sheets, that would be terrific. The sooner the better.
mjhaman24@yahoo.com
I'm aiming for my first post tomorrow evening. For your reference, I will probably be posting Sunday - Thursday evenings.
Will also send this via email.
Vauhwyt Thursday November 15th, 2007 4:40:43 PM
Checking in.
Oni Thursday November 15th, 2007 8:42:31 PM
OOC I sent my CS today
Vorelle Thursday November 15th, 2007 11:14:31 PM
I sent mine, too. :)
Vauhwyt Friday November 16th, 2007 2:51:52 PM
Checking In
DM Shegger Friday November 16th, 2007 8:56:28 PM
Vorelle Highlight to display spoiler: {You notice that one of the walls has an engraving of manacles wrapped around an upright sword.}
Vauhwyt Highlight to display spoiler: {You sense no hostility directed towards yourself.}
After the guards have finished their inspection, Clu'eth enters the room and beckons for the rest to enter. "Take a seat. We should begin."
The heads of the Houses sit about the central table as their guards spread out through the room and the space outside of the meeting area.
"We know why we're here," begins Clu'eth. "The Dark Horse Guild has discovered an enemy of the City. This enemy is marching on us and we need to defend our city."
There is some muttering amongst the Houses as they debate amongst themselves. The muttering turns to louder arguing, denials, and calls to action.
Clu'eth tries to regain order, but his soft voice is lost in jumble.
(OOC - Next post will be Sunday evening.)
Vauhwyt d20+19=21 d20+19=21 Saturday November 17th, 2007 9:26:06 AM
Vauhwyt wishes she could cast an enlarge, but dares not, since it might be considered an attack. So she relies on her natural talent, size, and divine inspiration.
"Hey! Are you the leaders of Houses or of Barns!" she roars in her high-pitched voice, designed to drown out the others and intimidate if she can. "Show some respect! Listen to the priest, and take turns talking!"
Intimidate 21, but she uses one of her two hero points to reroll. Another 21! Darn it. Well, maybe it will do. And maybe some of her friends, like Oni, can give her a bonus with Aid Another.
Theodore & Macaw Saturday November 17th, 2007 8:33:16 PM
Theodore takes a seat at the tables, excited to be involved in such high filutin affairs. He grimaces when Vauhwyt shouts right next to him, but otherwise stays silent until things are back in hand.
DM Shegger Sunday November 18th, 2007 7:58:37 PM
Vauhwyt's demand for respect seems to do the trick. The speaking stops and all eyes turn towards the liontaur.
Clu'eth clears his throat and attention is again on the crippled priest. "Wardd has blessed us with a vision of part of the approaching army. We have seen an army of Undead marching on the City."
A hush falls over the assembly. The cloaked and masked figure speaks first, "And why should we believe the temple? They're known associates of the Dark Horses. This whole invasion is probably some scheme cooked up between them, the temple, and the Keys to take over our City. Bah!"
Voices are raised again, the normally tactful Jeraldh is standing and pointing his finger accusingly towards the masked figure.
"Hold! Hold!" yells the fat Kassif. "The priest tells it truly!"
The ruckus dies down again and the Merchant continues, "One of our caravans was ambushed on their return to Dirt City. They were attacked by ghouls."
"Aye," pipes up the fat dwarf. "Men from the Knives were with that caravan. I'll attest to the same."
The masked figure folds its arms across its chest and leans back in its chair. Otherwise, it says nothing.
Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {The masked figure appears to be a little shaken by the corrobarating talk.}
"I'm sure you've all done reconaissance on this information," Clu'eth takes the conversation back into his hands. "We should lay out what each of us knows and we can go from there."
He looks in the direction of the Dark Horses. "Please, would you all start us off. Everything you know or have heard of the coming attack, we need to hear about it. Now."
Vorelle Sunday November 18th, 2007 9:49:17 PM
Vorelle does what she usually does when somebody in authority demands answers. She gasps, chokes, and makes a few incoherent "urk" noises.
Theodore and Macaw d20+3=16 Monday November 19th, 2007 9:16:25 AM
Theodore is a little shocked about the news of an undead army. "We haven't heard anything about that."
"I wonder what kind of wizards and priests they have that would be able to raise an entire army. This might be real trouble."
He shakes his head, clearly troubled. Then he looks to Vauhwyt, and whispers, "Do you want to give them the run down of what we know. I still think we should keep Darid's name to ourselves. I let Seafoam know about him and to mention his name now would only cause infighting. If he's a problem, we can deal with him ourselves."
Berlon Monday November 19th, 2007 12:22:00 PM
The gnome's look of confusion is quickly replaced by a broad smile when Theo questions the logistics behind an undead army.
"Undead?" he messages with the cantrip, "we should BE so lucky. And Vauhwyt, PLEASE cut it out with the spells for the time being..."
Other than that, he remains silent until he spots an opening.
"If you all don't mind..." he says loudly, "there are some things that should be done if they haven't already." He finishes the sentence less loudly but no less firmly.
"Some riders should be sent out to let us know details about both the size and distance of any advancing groups. Some ships should also be sent out for the same purpose..." he pauses but only adds, "just in case."
"Once that is taken care of, and I'm sure it's already been addressed and I'm simply stating the obvious, you can continue your discussion..." He smiles broadly.
Oni Monday November 19th, 2007 2:41:37 PM
Oni has composed himnself now that he is out of the arena. Glad to be out of the arena. All this arguing seems to be normal. Just like the casting of spells and whatnot, this almost looks staged. Civilization had certain rules to live by, he guessed.
When Chu'leth asks for their story, Oni defers to Vauhwyt, the obvious choice for speaker. But before she says anything he adds simply, "We know of lizardmen coming. Now there is word of undead. How many other beings are aligned against the city? Sounds like the Houses need to alignm become allies, if any are to survive. The enemy seems to be well prepared, I see we are not," Simple said.
Vauhwyt Monday November 19th, 2007 4:33:17 PM
It falls to Vauhwyt to tell the tale, then, and she tells the long version.
How the Dark Horse Guild defeated Ba'Bac, the assassin who had targeted the Wolf Alpha's daughter. How he proved to be a Marteaus cultist.
How the Dark Horses teamed up with the Swords of Redemption to foil a cell of cultists who had killed the Prince's right hand, Th'ayvanen. How the Dark Horses first met some honorable lizard folk, learned of the invasion, and brought back the Cursed Book of Marteaus to the Prince.
How the Prince was corrupted by the Book, and chose to ignore the news of coming invasion.
How the party went to the coastal swamps, found Captain Rossa and his people about to be sacrificed, and rescued them. How another encounter with honorable lizard folk led to more information that the invasion was happening very soon.
And how the Dark Horses stole a list of cultists from the evil lizardfolk cultists, and how the list included names of those from several humanoid races. How that list of names also included Ba'Bac, making the circle complete.
DM Shegger Monday November 19th, 2007 8:19:28 PM
The Houses are quiet, for the most part, as the Dark Horses speak.
When Berlon demands the Houses send out scouts, several people respond.
"Of course, we have sent out ships," says the large Vox Requin. "The Teeth will protect our harbor." She says this last bit with enthusiasm.
"The harbor is an important part of Dirt City," adds Kassif. "It's vital to our survival."
Sense motive 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {The Merchants would have an obvious interest in keeping the harbor safe.}
"We have men out, as well," Jeraldh informs the table. "Of course, we will inform everyone as soon as we receive any information."
Oni voices his opinion and gets a few nods as well as some dirty looks.
Then Vauhwyt tells her story. After she is finished, the tall fellow from the Darts lets his head drift slowly to the side and snaps it back with a mock snore.
"No doubt the Horses are nothing but a band of bards and storytellers," he says with a smile. His gaze falls back to Vauhwyt. "And not very good ones, at that. As the astute masked...thing...has stated, we need proof of such an invasion. But, all you give us are words."
"We've given you proof!" Jeraldh says. "The Temple of Wardd has seen an army coming. The Merchants and Knives have been attacked by this same army!"
"Bah!" says the Dart. He doesn't appear to be rankled by the albino. "The Temple needs more petitioners. Nothing like a crusade against deaders to beefen up their ranks. The Merchants will do anything for money and the dwarves are too naive to think for themselves."
This causes another uproar around the table. Now even the gentle Clu'eth is standing, red-faced and shouting.
Only the Wolves are silent, now. The only House yet to offer a voice in the discussion. Mr. Smoker reclines lazily, enjoying a cigar as his eyes flit between the loudest speakers. Mr. Rapper smiles wolfishly at Vauhwyt. Mr. Smooth gives Vorelle a sly little wink. Mr. Silent stares at the table, apparently lost in thought.
Posting Report for 11/12/07 Monday November 19th, 2007 8:23:11 PM
SMTWTFS
DM MikeK has some real world issues he must see to. We should be back on track for this week, with the most estimable, handsome, and tactful DM Shegger stepping into Mr. Knotts' large shoes for a bit.
ADM Shegger
Oni Tuesday November 20th, 2007 2:11:44 AM
Oni stares at the Dart who had called him a storyteller.
"If you live after this fight I challenge you to a duel sir. Noone calls me a liar and gets away free. As for the rest of you, if an invasion is immenint then we should plan. If you are like the intelligent, gent mere from the arts, then take your leave now.
--OOC Seems the ADM is correct on all points.
Vauhwt Tuesday November 20th, 2007 5:54:01 AM
Vauhwyt whispers to her friends, "Take a lesson from the Wolves. This rude fellow wants nothing more than to get us angry and sow dissent. Do not let him get your goat."
What Vauhwyt says, speaking in a normal tone of voice so that anyone who wants to hear will have to listen, is this: "Sir Dart, you add nothing to this discussion. I see no reason to listen to you. We will save you with all the City, despite your effort to divide us."
Theodore and Macaw d20+3=23 Tuesday November 20th, 2007 10:04:49 AM
(Sense Motive 23, nat 20)
Theodore puts a hand on the rankled Oni. "Calm down, friend," he whispers to the centaur. "These guys don't fight fair. If you challenge him to a duel, he'll hire a knife to kill you in your sleep. Especially the Darts."
Theodore feels the tension building at the table and his own blood begins to boil at the Dart's taunting. He takes several deep breaths to steady himself.
He casts a prestidigitation spell to enhance his voice, "Gentlemen! He is right, of course. We don't have any hard evidence. But what we do have are corroborating witnesses. You have three Houses and the Temple of Wardd that affirm there's an oncoming army. You have another House that is willing to go on this information and send out scouts of its own to confirm. This is Dirt City. Information is one of our most vital exports and yet we dicker amongst ourselves over the lack of hard evidence."
Theodore looks at the Dart leader. "The evidence you desire will be at your doorstep in a few days. If that's the proof you're waiting for, I think you'll agree it will be too late to do much about it, at that point."
"Oni is correct," he continues, casting his gaze along the Houses. "The least we can all do is send out scouts. Shore up our defenses, talk out a strategy. If the army doesn't show up, where's the harm? If it does show, then we're prepared."
Vorelle Tuesday November 20th, 2007 12:19:14 PM
"I-I can sc-sc-scout," Vorelle says, astonished by her own boldness.
Astonishing herself even more, she turns to the Darts. "I c-c-can t-t-take y-you w-with me, i-i-if you l-l-l-like. You c-c-c-can s-s-s-see for y-y-yourself."
She takes a deep, shaky breath, wishing she could fight dragons or do something else easier than talking to these people.
Berlon Tuesday November 20th, 2007 5:35:44 PM
"Vorelle! Hush!" Berlon whispers via the cantrip, taking a moment to appreciate the odds of ever having to say that.
"Can we leave now?" he cantrips the rest of the group.
Vauhwyt Tuesday November 20th, 2007 9:05:34 PM
the liontaur whispers back to Berlon, "We can't leave yet. We have to stick around to make sure they don't mess it up. And we may have to coordinate our work defending the city with theirs. Where are we needed most? Should we scout? defend the port? defend the uppercity? Abandon the uper and defend in the tunnels? Go scouting first? Seek out the leaders of the opposition and kill them? We have to see what all are doing to decide what we will do."
Vauhwyt does not mind if she is overheard.
DM Shegger d20+1=5 Tuesday November 20th, 2007 10:00:48 PM
Through the various curses and accusations, you are all able to infer that the swaggering bravado that represents the Darts is named Spike.
Sense Motive 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Spike seems to take pleasure at all this attention directed at him. Even though it is mostly bad.}
"Aha!" squeals Spike. "Now we come to it!" He raises a hand, flat palm facing upwards, fingers pointed towards Oni. "These vagabonds are unable to hold a proper conversation but must resort to bullying tactics. Well, I'll let you know right now that the Darts won't be bullied!"
He thumbs his nose at the centaur. And then again at Vauhwyt for good measure.
Listen 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {"Four-legged freaks," he mutters under his breath.}
Theodore attempts to calm the angry Oni, but it might be for nothing. Then the wizard begins to speak, trying to cool heated heads. After his speech, everyone is quiet for a moment.
The masked figure, who everyone has been calling Mask, speaks again. "The Cloaks are dealers of information, Theodore. I'm sure your Master Geoffrey has explained this to you." The figure pauses in its speech and leans forward to place its hands upon the table. "But you speak well. The Cloaks know better than anyone else here the necessity of the spoken word. We also know how easily the word can be twisted and turned to resemble something the speaker wants it to be."
Mask leans back again. "We will play along for now," it says. "Assume you are all telling the truth. Because it would be a shame if this were some big scandal. We might have to bring in your friend Rose for questioning. Or perhaps Vorelle's mother could give us better...information."
Spike folds his arms over his chest with a harumph. Clu'eth looks at the sulking fellow, "And what are your intentions, Spike?"
The black haired fellow wags his head. "I'm still here, ain't I?"
During another moment of silence, Vorelle offers her services as scout to Spike. Berlon immediately calls her down, via Vauhwyt's message.
Spike smiles at the taciturn ranger, a playful twinkle in his eye. He unabashedly looks her over. "You can take me anywhere you wanna go, sweetie."
Jeraldh cuts in quickly, trying to deter another war of words. "We should move on to how we will defend the City. The Keys are ready to band with the rest of the Houses. Let's discuss how we should approach this."
Clu'eth agrees, "The table is open for suggestions. Ladies and gentlemen, we must devise a plan to protect our people."
(OOC - Let's start implementing the social skills, such as Bluff and Diplomacy. For the rest of this meeting, anyone who seeks to influence a reaction or direction of this meeting (such as convincing Spike or Mask to jump on board) should make the appropriate check. If your just providing information, no check is needed. Also, keep in mind that how you say things as well as what is said could add bonuses or penalties to your check. If I feel a particular action or speech would influence someone either positively or negatively, and you neglect to make your check, I will make one for you.)
When Spike threatens Rose, Vauhwyt says to Spike, calmly, "I know a certain lady, who knows a certain spider, who some say actually is the spider ... and this lady, who I serve, might grant me the grace to make you regret those actions, should you take them. Maybe not today, or tomorrow, but you would regret them, I promise you that.
Vauhwyt is making a bluff check to secretly communicate to Spike that she is an Avenger of Jancassis, and she it making an intimidate check to put the fear of that fact into Spike.
Bluff: 30 is a nat 20. Intimidate: a 24.
After a pause, Vauhwyt puts some questions on the table.
How big a force are we facing total? How big an army can we field to fight it? Should we put our army against the enemy in open battle? Should we retreat underground to make a stand in the sewers? Where are the leaders, and can we sneak in and kill them before the battle? What are our defenses? Traps? Tricks?
What high level resources do we have at our disposal?
Vauhwyt gives a general sense of the powers of the Dark Horse Guild: We have fair-to-middling powers, maybe one third those of the great Dragons such as Valdor.
Vauhwyt is a sneaky type with arcane magic. Vorelle is a ranger. Oni is a tank with druid magics. Theo is a mage. Berlon is a cleric. Rose is like Vauhwyt. Dietrich is a fighter. Olyn is a cleric. One other, maybe unknwn to you, is a rogue.
Vauhwyt clearly expects the other House Leaders to give some indication of the strengths they can bring to the table.
Diplomacy (untrained with bluff synergy) if needed: 15
Vorelle Wednesday November 21st, 2007 1:10:07 AM
Vorelle frowns at the masked man. "M-m-my m-m-m-mother is a l-l-l-liar," is all she says.
At Spike's crude innuendo, she hunches her shoulders a bit and sidles closer to Oni.
Oni Wednesday November 21st, 2007 2:27:10 AM
Oni simply stares at Spike, never taking his eyes off himn. Foe good or bad, the others need to know the seriousness of the offense. Oni does not intimidate, nor try and scare, simply is what it is. Maybe in earlier years he would have burst into a rage, reacting withour thinking. Now however was not the time.
So Oni simply stares at Spike not caring about what the man thinks. Although Theodores words were probably true, Oni was Centaur, and would not accewpt the slight.
When the subject of Jancassis conmes up, Oni does grin at Spike. Hopefully Spike knew the Drow worshiped the woman, and would make the connection with him as well.
--OOC Dont know how to play this. I am untrained in any diplomacy skills. Centaurs do get s'some' ranks in Intimidate, but it never says how much. So whether I fail or succeed, is a matter for the DM. In Oni's mind it just is, he is not bluffing or trying to scare. Just like paying the barkeep for ale, it just is.
Theodore and Macaw d20+3=22 d20+4=18 Wednesday November 21st, 2007 9:20:23 AM
(Sense Motive 22, Listen 18)
"Drop the back and forth with Spike," Theodore whispers to his friends. "He seems to feed off of it."
And then Mask is threatening his friends through innuendo. Vauwhyt returns the threat, as Theodore was sure she would. He's surprised, but thankful, that Oni is restraining himself.
A bit of order is restored and Clu'eth and Jeraldh begin to steer the conversation back towards relevant matters.
Theodore has little to offer in the matter of defense. His mind never really worked with such matters.
"Where's Dietrich, when we need him?" he mutters.
DM Shegger (OOC) Wednesday November 21st, 2007 9:23:07 AM
(OOC - Just a little more on the Diplomacy, etc. You can use the social skills untrained. Just add the appropriate skill modifier to your roll. Most importantly, roleplay your character how he/she should be played. But your character should also be cognizant of the situation they are in. You're meeting with people who run a city of thieves, liars, and assassins. Your words and actions here could have severe consequences, good or bad.)
Berlon d20+4=16 d20+7=24 Wednesday November 21st, 2007 1:53:05 PM
At Spike's innuendo towards Vorelle, Berlon stands between them. He looks the Dart up and down, sizing him up.
"You're like a child," he says slowly, as if realization is slowly coming over him (Sense Motive 16) "all you want is attention, and you don't care how you get it."
"Is that what you want? For everyone to tell you how wonderful the Darts are, and how much the Guild loves them? No, you just want to be noticed. Tell me how much you care about pending invasion. Tell me how much you care about the pending loss of life. Tell me why Oni and Vauhwyt are freaks. (Listen 24) Is it because they are different from you, or is it because they are bigger than you. No, it's not that, it's because you're a child. You dishonor yourself and the Darts."
"Go ahead," he finishes, "tell me, Little Spike, tell me you care about the invasion of Dirt City. Go ahead. Lie to me. I dare you."
"The times are changing," he says to the assembly as a whole, "the old ways are coming to an end."
"Your ways," he says looking at Mask but still theoretically speaking to everyone, "are coming to an end. It would be wise to adapt."
"And now," he says turning dramatically, "I have had my fill of both posturing and insanity. I have scrolls to scribe." He walks back towards the group and looks around. "What's the fastest way out of here?"
Vorelle [illegal second post] d20=10 Thursday November 22nd, 2007 1:40:29 AM
[OOC: I suppose I could roll a Bluff check, although Lisenne really is a liar. Bluff 10.]
Thanks for putting up with me, guys! DM MikeK's back! Hooray!
ADM Shegger
And baby makes three (DM MikeK) Monday November 26th, 2007 8:12:17 PM
Seriously irritated by Spike's tone, Vauhwyt responds to his veiled threat with one of her own. The dark haired man regards the liontaur, and then winks at her.
Vauhwyt plows on, asking the general stratetic questions one would expect in the face of an impending invasion. She goes on to describe the general abilities of the Dark Horse Guild, and waits the Houses to reciprocate.
Vorelle shrinks back next to Oni.
Oni stares down Spike, grinning as his fellow taur speaks of spiders and ladies who control them.
Theo attempts once again to get the taurs to emulate the Wolves, who've yet to respond to any insult or implied threat.
Berlon chooses the opposite tactic, attacking the honor and maturity of Spike, and telling Mask to get with the changing times. If his words have any effect on the Dart, Spike doesn't show it. The man's grin widens as he regards the pontificating gnome. The Mask makes no reaction at all. Berlon declares he's had enough, and looks to his companions to find a way out.
Clu'eth again tries to restore order, and shoots Theo a "Help Me" look while taking in the rest of the party with his eyes.
Spike is enjoying himself immensely, but doesn't say anything more. The Mask appears to be watching Berlon (in fact most of the representatives are) but he or she doesn't say anything either.
Into this slight pause comes the voice of Mr. Smooth. "The Wolves propose we select a Battle Leader to centralize defense plans for the duration of this crisis."
The Mask's reply is immediate, "Define the end point of the crisis."
"When we all agree, by majority vote, that these two armies no longer threaten us," Smooth states.
Jeraldh clears his throat. "Three armies," he declares. There is stunned silence. Jeraldh, almost apologetically fills the space. "We had a Clean Op in Plateau City. On the way back, our team spotted an army of goblins and orcs, a couple thousand strong, reinforced by trolls and giants, assembling a couple days walk west of here. Our team got in this morning."
"Cloaks second the Wolf's motion" Mask interjects into the strained silence.
None of the representatives are very comfortable right now. The thoughts of not one, but three, armies descending upon the city are enough to give even Spike pause. Eventually, Clu'eth realizes he must answer the Cloak.
"Uh, motion to select a Battle Leader?" he asks.
All seven Houses agree to the motion, which brings the inevitable question.
"Nominations?" the cleric asks.
"Is anyone interested that we don't already know about?" responds the fat dwarf.
For some reason, the seven House leaders turn to regard Theo.
Oni Tuesday November 27th, 2007 1:22:24 AM
Oni continues to stare down Spike. Her does notice all the attention shift to Theo. The wizard was probably casting a sell or something.
Berlon Tuesday November 27th, 2007 8:31:54 AM
"Define the end point of the crisis?" Berlon asks incredulously. "Well," he says, unsuccessfully trying to fight back the sarcasm, "when there are no more undead looking to eat your brains, or there are no more lizardmen looking to eat your liver, or there are no more goblins trying to eat your children, that would usually be the end point of the crisis."
He sighs heavily.
"But I digress."
He then clears his throat and speaks clearly and loudly, with a slight pause for extra dramatic effect.
"The Dark Horse Guild nominates Dietrich the Bear for Battle Leader."
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday November 27th, 2007 9:30:23 AM
Theodore is glad that the meeting is back on track. He touches Oni on the shoulder again, just as a reassurance that he has friends around him, too.
He puts his other hand on Vauhwyt's shoulder, to ease her temper, as well.
"We need to think rationally, now, guys," he whispers for the message spell to pick up. "These guys are trying to make us angry. Don't let them win. You said so, yourself, Vauhwyt."
He realizes how silly he must look: a tiny young man reaching up with either hand to console his vastly larger taur friends.
Seeing Clu'eth's wordless plea for help, Theodore removes his hands from their respective shoulders and stands up.
"People, please!" he makes a calming motion with his hands. "If we're to survive this attack, we must put aside our differences and work together. Most of us at the table agree. We simply have a few people a little too pig-headed for their own good." He turns to give Mask, Spike, Vauhwyt, Oni, and Berlon equal looks of "shut the heck up if you don't have something helpful to say."
Theodore sits back down, a heavy feeling in his gut when Jeraldh informs everyone that there's now a third army approaching Dirt City. He vaguely hears some others gabbling and then silence.
He looks up to see everyone looking at him searches his short term memory for what was just said. His face turns a pretty red and his eyes widen in horror. "Me? No-not me! I don't know anything about battle! I always get shot with arrows."
Berlon jumps in to save the wizard by nominating Dietrich. Theodore is glad for the shift of attention and thinks the gnome has a good idea. "As long as it doesn't impact Jeraldh's bid for Prince, Dietrich probably would make a good battle leader," he whispers via message.
Vauhwyt Tuesday November 27th, 2007 9:52:32 AM
Listening to Theo, Vauhwyt ignores further provocation.
"I agree with Berlon and Theo," she says, smiling. "Dietrich the Bear is the best choice. Not only is he a professional military soldierr, used to command, and tested on the field of battle, but he stands above politics, making him an acceptable choice for all."
"It is for that reason -- to avoid political entanglements -- that he chose to stay away from this meeting. He is even now ordering the defenses of the city with such resources as we can musterr. To some he is an enigma, because he has no personal ambition, but that makes him an even better choice since he will step down willingly when no longer needed."
"Let's call for him, and he will serve the City well."
Vorelle Tuesday November 27th, 2007 4:08:42 PM
Vorelle doesn't speak, but nods her agreement to Dietrich's nomination.
Nominations (DM MikeK) Tuesday November 27th, 2007 7:31:47 PM
Oni notices the attention shift to Theo. But Theo isn't the problem - Spike is. The centaur continues to bore holes into the annoying little man with his gaze.
Berlon helpfully supplies the representatives with a better idea of what is likely to happen very soon if they don't get to doing something about it. They listen politely, but make no other sign. Int DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { The general reaction to Berlon matches the general reaction to Spike - none at all}
Berlon then nominates Dietrich as Battle Leader.
Theo, correctly interpreting Clu'eth's cue, again attempts to restore some civility to the proceedings. The mage's look singles out Oni, Vauhwyt, Berlon, Spike, and the Mask as the main troublemakers. Getting nominated as Battle Leader is right out, however, and the mage declines vigorously.
Vauhwyt takes the hint, and stays on message. She echoes the nomination of Dietrich.
Vorelle silently agrees.
The fat dwarf from the Knives smiles broadly at Theo. "Relax, young man," he chuckles. "No one here is suggesting you be battle leader. You're just the only one of your group displaying any political sense at all, and we wanted to hear your suggestion."
Spike chimes in, "and you don't get to nominate. A House has to do that."
Clu'eth looks around. "Will a House nominate Dietrich?"
The dwarf shakes his head ruefully. "I don't see us letting a newcomer boss us around, even to save the city."
Vox Requin steps forward. "The Teeth nominate Dietrich." She casts a significant look at Theo. "Huh?" gasps the dwarf. "I thought your man Darid was all the rage." Vox frowns before replying, "Darid Skull is no longer of the Teeth."
Sense Motive DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The Knives and Darts are surprised by this news. The Keys, Wolves, and Merchants are not. }
"Any other nominations?"
Jeraldh steps forward. "Me" Mr. Silent does the same. "And me" The dwarf speaks up. "Liam Kent"
The name of the commander of the Woldian League of Adventurers ripples through the representatives.
"Actually," Spike admits grudgingly, "that's not a horrendously bad idea."
The dwarf nods toward the party, "same reasons as their man, just expanded a bit to a fellow we all know."
Jeraldh is about to reply, when he's interrupted by a loud noise from the atrium. The Knife guard closest to the doors looks out. "We're under attack!" he calls back over his shoulder as he draws his sword.
Theodore & Macaw HP 33 AC 16 (mage armor) d20+4=16 d20+3=20 Tuesday November 27th, 2007 9:14:36 PM
Theodore listens through the nominations. He is surprised at Vox Requin's nomination of Dietrich, and also when she claims Darid is no longer part of their house. He gives Vauhwyt a significant look.
Theodore gets a little flustered when Vox Requin looks directly at him and quickly averts his eyes to another's face.
He is a little curious about the Knives' nomination, but has no time to think about it. A guard is calling attack.
Theodore stands and casts mage armor upon himself. "How many and what are they?!" he calls to the guard.
Berlon Tuesday November 27th, 2007 10:40:19 PM
"'Political sense' is an oxymoron, and half of "oxymoron" describes more than half of you." Clearly Berlon has been conversing with hobbits lately.
"So," he says matter of factly to the assembly, "which of you would like to nicely ask the rampaging hordes to please hold a moment so you can continue your teatime conversation?"
"I *TOLD* you!" Berlon hisses angrily via the cantrip, "WHY must you insist on playing their foolish games?? No doubt innocent blood has been spilt already!"
Those paying attention see Berlon's fists clenched, shaking slightly by his side.
Vorelle d20+1=7 d20+2=7 d20+13=20 d20+13=24 Tuesday November 27th, 2007 11:50:30 PM
As usual, Vorelle completely misses the undercurrents of what is going on [Int check 7; Sense Motive 7]. It's just as well she makes a point of not trusting people.
At the noise, she moves to get a better shot at the door, though she keeps her bow in the magic quiver for the moment. She watches and listens for clues about the commotion.
[Move to P-11. Spot 20, Listen 24]
Vauhwyt (AC21, HP65) and Mookie (AC17, HP32) and Wolverine (AC14, HP28) d100=19 Wednesday November 28th, 2007 9:53:57 AM
Vauhwyt nods at the mention of Liam. But she has no time to voice an opinion. An attack!
Vauhwyt casts Reduce Person on herself, shared with Mookie. "Mookie! Animal!" she calls out. The monkey-form familiar climbs out of his pouch onto Vauhwyt's back, and pulls a furry ball from the Bag of Tricks.
Vauhwyt moves to Q15 and tells Mookie to cast the furry ball through the doorway. He tosses it through the door. It becomes a wolverine!
Active Spells: Alter Self (Mookie) Reduce Person
Wolverine Stats Size/Type: Medium Animal Hit Dice: 3d8+15 (28 hp) Speed: 30 ft. (6 squares), burrow 10 ft., climb 10 ft. Armor Class: 14 (+2 Dex, +2 natural), touch 12, flat-footed 12 Base Attack/Grapple: +2/+4 Attack: Claw +4 melee (1d4+2) Full Attack: 2 claws +4 melee (1d4+2) and bite -1 melee (1d6+1) Space/Reach: 5 ft./5 ft. Special Attacks: Rage Special Qualities: Low-light vision, scent Saves: Fort +7, Ref +5, Will +2 Abilities: Str 14, Dex 15, Con 19, Int 2, Wis 12, Cha 10 Skills: Climb +10, Listen +6, Spot +6 Feats: Alertness, Toughness, Track
Oni Wednesday November 28th, 2007 5:31:58 PM
Whether he is concerned or not, Oni shpows nop outeard appearance of danger. His gaze is still locked on Spike. The room seems to jump to activity, but he stays put.
This would be a battle of longevity, no use running off half cocked. Oni places himself in position to protect his friends. At guard, at attention, watching the betrayal of the one known as Sike.
Summit Attack - round 1 (DM MikeK) Wednesday November 28th, 2007 9:59:53 PM
OOC - We are in combat mode now. Please place stats in the post name, and provide any DM sanity information as you can.
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The cry of an attack mobilizes the Dark Horse Guild, as well as the other representatives. While some very interesting things were said, or not said, it can wait.
Theo casts a defensive spell upon himself and calls for more information from the guard who raised the alarm.
Berlon waits, the attack a validation of the urgency of the situation that no one but himself seems to acknowledge.
Vorelle moves to get a better view of the atrium area. She does not yet pull her bow.
Vauhwyt reduces her size, the better to get around in the crowded hall, and moves to the nearest doorway. Mookie, a monkey now, climbs onto her back and tosses a fuzzy ball into the atrium. The ball becomes a wolverine, which looks this way and that as it attempts to determine which of the thirty odd people around him are the bad guys.
Oni is a lot more concerned about betrayal from within the room, particularly from Spike. The taur watches the swashbuckler intently.
Berlon, Vauhwyt, and Vorelle all have a good field of vision into the large atrium. The platform at the far end is down, and a couple dozen humaniods are piling off it, weapons drawn and striking for the conference room. The attackers have split up into groups. The first group of seven swordsmen have formed a line, and are driving hard for the conference room. Behind them, another half dozen appear to be forming a perimeter, while a group of six or seven archers are just now exiting the platform behind them.
The fifteen guards in the atrium, accounting for all the Houses, close on the intruders.
Inside the conference room, all the various representatives are moving - some to get a better view, some to get closer to their guards, some to get away from everybody else. Weapons are drawn, but no one inside the room has attacked anyone else or appears intent on doing so.
Vorelle [AC 18; hp 68/68] d20+13=17 d20+13=26 Wednesday November 28th, 2007 11:52:54 PM
Still not sure what is happening, Vorelle leaves her weapons sheathed. She moves just inside the other room, continuing to scan for hints of what is going on.
[Move to R-16. Spot 17, Listen 26]
[Vorelle would like to remind the DM that she has the Quick Draw feat. :) ]
Vauhwyt (AC21, HP65) and Mookie (AC17, HP32) and Wolverine (AC14, HP28) Thursday November 29th, 2007 6:55:09 AM
Vauhwyt urges Theo to hit them with a stinking cloud or fireball while they are all bunched up in the front there.
She casts Expeditious Retreat and then moves 70 feet south to 29Q.
The wolverine makes a double move to 31Q.
Mookie gets a scroll of Cure Light Wounds out of Vauhwyt's saddlebags.
==========
Active Spells: Alter Self (Mookie) Reduce Person
Wolverine Stats Size/Type: Medium Animal Hit Dice: 3d8+15 (28 hp) Speed: 30 ft. (6 squares), burrow 10 ft., climb 10 ft. Armor Class: 14 (+2 Dex, +2 natural), touch 12, flat-footed 12 Base Attack/Grapple: +2/+4 Attack: Claw +4 melee (1d4+2) Full Attack: 2 claws +4 melee (1d4+2) and bite -1 melee (1d6+1) Space/Reach: 5 ft./5 ft. Special Attacks: Rage Special Qualities: Low-light vision, scent Saves: Fort +7, Ref +5, Will +2 Abilities: Str 14, Dex 15, Con 19, Int 2, Wis 12, Cha 10 Skills: Climb +10, Listen +6, Spot +6 Feats: Alertness, Toughness, Track
Theodore & Macaw HP 33/33 AC 16 (mage armor) Thursday November 29th, 2007 10:20:36 AM
"Unfortunately, I've already cast my stinking cloud spell," Theodore replies to Vauhwyt.
He steps out into the atrium and quickly moves to T16. Once there, he casts web upon the doorway the enemies are coming through, hoping to catch or slow the bulk of the attackers. (Reflex save 16 to avoid; http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/web.htm)
Active Spells: Mage Armor - 8 hours See Invisibility - 80 minutes from meeting's start Detect Scrying - 24 hours from this morning
Oni 79 HP 17 AC d20+11=25 d20+14=15 Thursday November 29th, 2007 2:02:33 PM
Oni stays put. He tries to make out the nature of his enemy before running smack into them. He watches as the others move into the atrium, although he is not quite ready to leave. Somethin is nagging at hinm. He checks the room for Spike and his crobies.
Nature 25, dont know if the skill applies or not. Spot 15 nat 1
Berlon - AC 20 HP 50/50 Friday November 30th, 2007 2:16:00 PM
Shaking his head silently and angrily, Berlon casts Divine Power on himself and prepares for the worst.
LOG ON