Warm day ahead/DM Buzz Friday August 8th, 2008 1:41:41 AM Theorex looks thoughtful for a few minutes. He would know, there are people that would be interested in the knowledge the group had. Foy is a past Captain and his friend Myrer is his old friend and past Manager. They have an estate outside of the fort a ways, but they are also known to own a ship. One or the other may be away, perhaps both.
Winterglade does not see anything within the dream of imporatnce and ask if they should go to Larmanes garden. Someone would remember them saying, they were collapsing the entrance after they entered and could open it again, when it is time for the rebellion. Discretion is imperative.
Flat-top worried about his magical tattoos, he feeds Heyoo snacks and asks what's next.
.Zeoll with embarrassment attempts to relate the part of the dream he is most uncomfortable with, but the subtleties do not get a cross to Winterglade. Highlight to display spoiler: {You didn't roll the DC 15 I spoke of in the email. Sorry, lets move on. There is quite a bit of information in the religion translation as is though, it's just in riddle form.}
Tiba gathers some food and heads back to the cave. A fire is needed to cook the rabbit, but the smoke may be noticed by passers by. She knows, it should not be eaten raw.
The heat of the day will soon be upon the day and the group needs to decide, will they braves the tunnels that lead back toward the city, or will they travel around through the farm lands and estates?
Gecktar AC22 HP 76/76 d20+8=24 ; Friday August 8th, 2008 3:32:46 AM
OOC : spells chosen are in Gecktar's character sheet
When Zeoll relates to Gecktar his full dream, Gecktar tries to discern the hidden signification of all this (religion check 24).
"Now time for decision. What are our possibilities."
"Finding Larmanes and Jacktar back and trying to help them when they will take an action. Doing this we put great dangers on the camp as we have many enemies always seeking us and willing to ally any evil that would help them. Said like this, I don't want to carry the burden of other innocent loss."
"Second, we could just go on and try to locate Dr Mauroth, and let Jacktar and Larmane with thier own problems." "Did I really say that is one of our possibility ? The image of the Chosen will be spoiled by this." "The image of the Chosen has to be a symbol for us to wield. We are nothing as taurs or persons. We could be killed in a wink of an eye, we could be defeated. A symbol could not be killed, A symbol will leave its imprit in the history. Our individual names could be erased from all tablets, the icon of the Chosen will stay." "So this is not a viable solution. We need our image almost as much as our swords."
"Next, we could take care of Blackmane. Our priority I think. But how ?" "Now thinking about it, do we really have the choice ? Trying to gather information magically could still be made, and I think we should. Any clue will help us. But finaly, we aren't going to stay outdoor, freezing the night and boiling at midday. No. Fort Stag is our only possible destination."
"If anyone has another idea, it will be welcome, but for now, I think we have to go back in town."
Winterglade Friday August 8th, 2008 4:03:13 AM
"Right. But we aren't just going to walk in and expect the guards to let us pass through? Sadly, Winterglade doesn't have any powers that aim at hiding one's true appearance. And given the composition of this party we couldn't be more conspicious unless Brahmah started playing war drums. Still, let us start walking, maybe we will find a solution by the time we reach our destination."
"One or two of us could probably move around the city undetected - invisible or under illusions - and if we had a safe place to stay the rest of us could wait until we have a plan..."
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) Friday August 8th, 2008 9:24:03 AM
Mac shrugs and screws up his nose. "I'm not much good on the undetected side of things."
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) Friday August 8th, 2008 10:16:53 AM
Looking thoughtfully at Winterglade, offering the rabbits to Heyoo, as she's willing to bet it'll be a cold camp tonight, she considers what he says.
"I've been out in the woods too much, but I can certainly track and stay quiet, gathering the information my sense find."
Looking at her muddy hoofs, she smiles wryly. "Not that I'm likely to blend in with a city-folk environment. And I can't cast Invisible, but I can lose just about anyone who follows me into the woods with a fair amount of ease."
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) ALARM 10hrs Friday August 8th, 2008 6:45:33 PM
"I suspect that if any Chosen are even within a mile of Fort Stag, we will likely rouse the attention of the fort. We are well known in the Fort. However, Tiba, Mac and Theorex are newest to the group and their association with the Chosen is less likely."
Heyoo enjoys all his food he's been given.
"Yes, lets walk and maybe something will come to us."
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Friday August 8th, 2008 11:38:37 PM
"I could make a few of you invisible while you move or fight. I could do this for about 4 of you or a little more but then would not be very useful when we get into a fight."
"Is the fort near a river or large body of water?"
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Saturday August 9th, 2008 12:57:53 AM
Zeoll likes the idea of approaching from the harbor under water.
(more later)
Winterglade Saturday August 9th, 2008 3:21:47 AM
"It's a harbor town. Come to think of it, the ship we came on is probably still anchored there. It seems to be a good idea to have the newest members of the Chosen go to take a look at things."
[The Diviner indeed needs to give up only one other school of magic. It's in the PH at the bottom of the page 57.]
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Saturday August 9th, 2008 9:32:00 AM
Zeoll thinks that getting to the city undetected should not be a problem. Charm and talk with a couple birds to act as scouts. Use them plus Wilderness Lore to get to the coast. Travel underwater to the harbor.
But what from there? Capture a city guards-taur, charm him, and get him to say where we can find Blackmaine? Then go there as fast and quietly as we can? Then attack with surprise?
Zeoll has several potions of sneaking that would work great with some invisibilities. That can get the group unseen and unheard through the town to Blackmaine.
Zeoll asks Theorex if he has any Knock spells as well as Invisibilities. He asks if the mage has any wands. Maybe a very quick trip to the Catacombs for wands of Knock and Invisibility would be a wise choice.
Apologies/DM Buzz Saturday August 9th, 2008 11:01:52 AM
Very well, I'm sorry about the diviner mistake. I wish the SRD could have all those little things included, now that the 4.0 is out.
Resolved/DM Buzz Sunday August 10th, 2008 1:31:44 AM Gecktar attempts to translate the subtleties of Zeolls dream, but he just is not quite able to decipher any meanings it may have. Many possibilities are available to the group, he believes, but only one that must occur.
Winterglade believes, the group would stick out like a sore thumb, together, but some discretion should net some results.
Mac relates to the group one of his few weaknesses.
Tiba offers her ranger skills to the group after realizing, the rabbit should be cooked. Assap with agility runs up to a rabbit as Heyoo sniffs it, locks his canine teeth onto the long eared rodent, and runs off a ways, looking to see if the ursa is in pursuit, before feeding.
Brahmah thinks the newcomers of the group would prove most useful, in avoiding unwanted attention to their own little coup. Heyoo sniffing the rabbit, flinches as Assap makes his move. The bear looks up toward Brahmah as if to ask, if the minotaur would let that happen, then wanders to a nearby log downed many years ago, hunting some grubs.
Theorex lets the others know, what spells are at their disposal. Winterglade reminds him of the port.
Zeoll believes it is easier then the others may think, to get in without difficulty. Magic and skills are very useful, but what will they do once they enter? Maybe they should visit the magic shop, to get some more arcane and very useful, items.
The day lends itself to something out of a romantic novel, if your clothing did not smell like seared flesh as a reminder of the living nightmare, the evening before. The group travels for a few hours, staying near the stream, they hear from behind them, off to the south, thunder heads are forming. A storm is on the way and you realize, your still about a full days walk to town. Survival DC: 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {The storm will be on the group in three more hours.} Survival DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {It will be very strong and lasting about 10 hours.}
DM Buzz: I will be getting the map together for Fort Stag soon. It will have to be done with "Paint". The conversion of grids on the AutoRealm program is quite the headache.
Winterglade d20+7=9 ; Sunday August 10th, 2008 4:50:51 AM
[Survival 9] "Looks like we are going to get wet. We better start looking for a shelter, preferably on high ground. A cave would be perfect."
The centaur urges the group to push on while the good weather lasts, but as they go, he will be looking for a suitable camping place [Take10 on Survival: the check to look for shelter from rain is 17].
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) ALARM 10hrs d20+20=37 ; Sunday August 10th, 2008 1:27:34 PM
Survival 37
"The storm is a big one. Lets make sure the cave won't flood from runoff. Should last about 10 to 11 hours at most... provided its a natural storm. Hunting will be useless, since the animals are smart enough to stay out of it for the most part, except bears who seem to hunt trout in rivers regardless of weather conditions." He smiles. "Heyoo, stay put."
He looks at Glade, "I thought we were in a cave Glade. Maybe I'm mistaken."
(ooc: Maybe I misread it, but I thought we were inside a cave, thats why Brahmah cast Alarm at the mouth and told everyone the password... sigh, I'm so confused.)
DM Buzz: Indeed, you were in a cave, then, from what I read, you all wanted to leave for town, so after a few hours of walking, you notice the storm coming in. Things to remember, The storm is coming from the south. The stream that run from the cave you stayed in also runs from the south, with your survival check you can tell, that stream will soon become a river, when that storm hits the area.
Reminder/DM Buzz Sunday August 10th, 2008 2:47:36 PM
Just to remind you all, you have the option of getting to town, over land, or back through the tunnels you all come to this area in. If you wanted the tunnels, you would not now be following the stream toward the outside estates of Fort Stag.
Mac nods in agreement with Brahmah. "Away from the stream then. If many people are trying to get into town for protection from the storm then that will help us - being some among the many."
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+13=30 ; d20+10=15 ; d20+26=35 ; Sunday August 10th, 2008 10:11:07 PM
Survival 30.
Background: We were in Fort Stag, and then went through some sewers to get out of town to Jacktar's Camp, right? So how far away can we be from the town? We need to know where the fort is, in what direction, and how far away.
So Zeoll uses his Wild Empathy (roll 15), a Bardic Fascinate (Roll 35), and a charge from his Speak with Animals wand (49 left) to befriend a nearby bird. Preferably, a smarter one, like a falcon, magpie, owl, or crow. He just wants the bird to fly up up up, look for the town, and come back and tell him direction and distance.
With any luck, this will get Zeoll a sense of how and where to go.
If the fort is close, then Zeoll disagrees with his friends.
"Goodbarrrel! Brrahmah! What arre you doing! The gods have dropped a fabulous boon on ourr heads, and you want to hide! Frrom some rrain?!?"
"What we have herre is an opporrtunity! We can use the coverr of the storrm to sneak into town unseen! This is ourr chance! Come on! Don;t be afrraid of the waterr!"
Does Zeoll think that the best approach, in order to sneak into the storm, is to head straight to town, or to head for the coast, and then come in via the shore?
Winterglade Monday August 11th, 2008 3:54:11 AM
"Come now, Zeoll! The fort is still about a day away. Let's get away from the stream before Goodbarrel has to play bear and fish you out of it like trouts!"
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) d20+11=31 ; Monday August 11th, 2008 6:16:10 AM
Looking at the brooding clouds in the sky, she considers the group, and Theorex.
"I am sure that a port town like Fort Stag is used to the variety of people's, like Theorex here. However, what will they think of him coming from the land, rather than from a ship? They found it highly unusual for him to hire me on originally..." Unsure of what she's going to suggest next, she pauses before going on.
"This rain will take arond 10 hours to work itself out, and it'll be a driving rain pretty much throughout. Unless any of you happen to know a gate guard in town, it might be better to take your back way in. My only concern is that Theorex, as a 2-legger, might not be up to the trek in, with his lack of mass against the rising water."
Looking at Bramah, she waits for his decision. __________________________ Survival 11(+d20) =31 (nat 20!)
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Monday August 11th, 2008 6:54:25 AM
If Winterglade is right, then, um ... never mind!
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) ALARM 10hrs Monday August 11th, 2008 12:32:13 PM
Brahmah looks between Zeoll, Mac and Glade. "Town, overland. Sneak in. Provided we don't end up swimming there."
Gecktar AC22 HP 76/76 d20+4=10 ; Monday August 11th, 2008 3:32:29 PM "Seems that the sky is going to fall on our heads...
Gecktar first thing about finding a shelter, but as Zeoll suggests sneaking in town during the storm, the idea sounds interesting to his ears.
"If we have 10 hours before the storm reach us, then we should go and see in few hours. I just hope that huricane wind aren't to be part of the storm.
Recap/DM Buzz Monday August 11th, 2008 10:15:18 PM
I just looked through the archives and determined, you are now east and north of Fort stag, perhaps six hours away from the main gate if you travel through the estates. If you go back the way you came, you would have to walk back for one hour to the valley of woe, then another hour back to the cave exit. Then you would have to deal with the door that miraculously open for you when it was before very difficult, then another one to two hours through the sewer tunnels to either get to the stair case you came down, or force yourself through the grates near the docks.
I suppose I will need to know what you all want to do, before I go into any great detail on what you see or encounter.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Monday August 11th, 2008 10:49:02 PM
"I would suggest using the least amount of spells is best or going through the underground if we can rest somewhere in the city. Is that even possible?"
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Tuesday August 12th, 2008 12:51:54 AM
Zeoll gets the feeling that the party is six miles from Fort Stag travelling overland.
It might be faster to use the sewers, but Zeoll still does not know who created those golems, and who animated those undead centaurs, so he would rather stick to the Great Outdoors and Mother Wold rather than the underground lairs of the enemy.
If we head to Fort Stag now, we can travel for three hours in fair weather, another three to six in foul weather (depending on how much the weather slows us down), and still have the cover of the storm to sneak into Fort Stag and surprise Blackmaine.
Also keep in mind that this is a new day, and we should have a full assortment of spells prepped.
Gecktar Tuesday August 12th, 2008 3:34:22 AM "I don't want to get back into the caves. Remember that their were dozen of monstruous spiders waiting for any prey that will come close."
"Sorry but I think this would be a major risk for the Chosen. Not that I fear these vermins but because one of us could easily fall in a fight like this. And we need everybody."
"I agree with Zeoll, outdoor seems the best"
Winterglade Tuesday August 12th, 2008 4:56:41 AM
"Oh, if you are ready to walk in the rain and get drenched through then who is Goodbarrel to stop you? Let's continue on, then."
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Tuesday August 12th, 2008 7:14:01 AM
"Drrenched, Schmenched! What's a little rrain!"
Zeoll grins at Goodbarrel.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) ALARM 10hrs Tuesday August 12th, 2008 11:12:22 AM
Brahmah ponders what is being said and thinks its quite sensible to avoid the sewers completely this go around. "The sewers are a maze and the storm is coming. The streets flush into the storm drains. I think it a bad idea to use the sewers again. And those spiders aren't an appealing thought either."
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) Tuesday August 12th, 2008 4:48:28 PM
Eyes widening, she looks at Theorex, then back at Bramah, and shivers.
"Yeah, lets not go through the spiders again."
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) Tuesday August 12th, 2008 8:54:12 PM
"Well, whatever we choose, it needs to be soon, or we'll all end up wet, or worse, swept away"
A short walk through chaos/DM Buzz Wednesday August 13th, 2008 1:21:33 AM
The party sets out toward town and after a couple of miles, they find a road that leads to the main road. They see farm steads, with young men pulling wagons through the field as the start of the last harvest is upon the land. Everything, from here seems at it should be, but as you get closer to town, it is noticibly more neglected. Some fields have not been harvested before this crop and food seems to be wasting on the ground.
Trees bearing fruit also have not been tended recently and it seems something is amiss with this. One estate after another, you notice a window that has not been repaired. Roofing, that is missing from a section of ones house.
The sun goes down and small droplets of rain begin to fall with the storm not yet upon you, when Theorex points out the house of Foy and Myrer. Their estate, still appears to be in order. The bushes trimmed nicely and the grass cut short, leaving it looking well groomed, which is a sharp contrast to their neighbors.
Across the road, a large party is in progress. A bonfire, with what appears to be large logs sits in what was once a very nice yard. Large kegs filled with drink seem to be off to the side, with many an imbiber dunking silver and golden goblets into the open casks before emptying the contents in to eager mouths. Drunken centaurs fist fight near the gate as a single female centaur, a comely lass, stands admiring the conflict, likely for her attention. As the two lust filled warriors strive against each other, she notices the group and with large blinking eyes, focuses her attentions on Zeoll as she points to him specifically, then purses her lips toward him . With a sultry sideways look to follow your direction, she seems to continue to face the conflict for her affections that evening.
Winterglade Wednesday August 13th, 2008 4:21:41 AM
"Ah, drinking and giving one another swollen eyes. Traditional centaur pastimes. Makes you really feel at home, in a kind of resignated way."
"Looks like a nice place to wait out the storm, though. Does anybody know anything about the people who live here?" - asks Winterglade, the inland, plain-dwelling centaur.
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) Wednesday August 13th, 2008 10:17:32 AM
Shaking her head, she looks sorrowfully upon the specatacle. " Sorry, but my tribe is from further south of here. I never had this kind of life, and I'm not sure I'm sorry I did." Looking over at the males in the fight, she murmers to bull-headed leader of the party, "Don't you think you could teach them a thing or two about how to do that properly?"
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+25=36 ; d20+25=40 ; d20+28=45 ; d20+28=44 ; d20+16=34 ; d20+16=21 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+19=27 ; d20+19=33 ; Wednesday August 13th, 2008 10:44:28 AM
Zeoll sees this cavorting and fears that he is seeing the influence of Caeroldra. Maybe his dream is a sign of deeper things happening.
"Goodbarrrel!" Zeoll exclaims when the centaur talks about holing up for the storm, "We'rre not going to wait out the storrm! We arre going to use it as coverr to enterr the city unrremarrked!"
"But firrst we need to know morre about this," he says, motioning to the revels. "If I get into trrouble I'll just go invisible, but be rready to help me out of this -- WITHOUT killing anybody!"
Zeoll casts Heroism, Taur's Try (to boost his spot), and Detect Magic and walks over to the group at the bonfire. He detects for magic as he approaches. He mixes and talks with people there. He puts folks at ease with his singing and drumming. He does his best to keep his ears and eyes open. And most of all, he tries to get a feel for these people. Are they charmed or magically influenced at all? He tries to figure out why these people are having a party when a storm is coming. Who started the party? Who organized it? Who brought the silver and gold goblets -- these are cups of the wealthy ... so are these folk nobles? or thieves? Are they dressed like rich folk? Where did they get such fine goblets?
Finally, he asks if there are any people here who honor Caeroldra. Any priests? He will mark those in his mind for special attention later.
Zeoll would prefer to spend no more than a half hour here, an hour max. Then it is time to get back on the way to Fort Stag.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) ALARM 10hrs d20+15=16 ; d20+14=31 ; Wednesday August 13th, 2008 12:08:19 PM
Brahmah does what he does best. He stick to Zeoll like a burr during the party, all the better, because Zeoll is most talented in situations like these. Brahmah is a bumbling fool at mingling. The ranger does his best to keep from ruining Zeoll's game.
He eyes the centaurs suspiciously.
Spot 16, Listen 31, versus centaurs +4
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+9=13 ; d20+7=27 ; Wednesday August 13th, 2008 2:29:38 PM
Hanging in the rear he listens for anyone approaching and listens for any conversations about the captain and such.
Knowledge Local 13 Knowledge Nobl/Royal about the house of Foy and Myrer 27
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Wednesday August 13th, 2008 2:46:13 PM
Zeoll notes that Brahmah is close by and gives the minotaur a wink and a grin. "Thanks, old frriend," he murmurs.
Gecktar d20+5=12 ; Wednesday August 13th, 2008 5:39:56 PM
Diving into the crow, is in fact the ways of Zeoll. Gecktar stays away from the scene knowing that too many bodyguard will ruin his efforts. But he keeps an eye alert to react if the situation becomes difficult.
(Spot 12)
If the estate is a rockin, don't bother knockin/DM Buzz d20+3=20 ; d20+3=8 ; d20+3=21 ; d20+3=16 ; d20+3=10 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+3=8 ; d20+3=5 ; d20+3=23 ; Thursday August 14th, 2008 3:12:41 AM Winterglade reminisces on the centaur way of life. Waiting out the storm, to him,. Is a good idea.
Tiba thinks the antics boorish and believes her new captain could show them a thing or two.
Zeoll believes, parts of his dream may have some merit to the present and lets everyone know, the rain will make entering the city easier. He does want to investigate the party though. I'm sorry Zeoll, but for Taur's Try, it is related to specific races and for liontaurs, it provides a +1 on Jump and Move Silently checks. Thank you for the link.
Brahmah joins the bard seer on his entrance..
Theorex is not able to know more then he already knows about Foy amd Myrer, but with his recent check, he knows, this residence belongs to a merchant by the name of Malica. He also knows, the term "Lord" is given to anyone that seems to have a strong presence of wealth about them. Some merchants, all the past fort captains and managers as well as adventurers of note. I'd hate to see you waste that natural 20
Gecktar waits outside of the estate.
As Brahmah and Zeoll walk toward the gate, the female centaur eases her way in between the two and hooks her arms in their's, now ignoring the fight for her affection. "Hello gentlemen. Welcome to the estate of Malica, please do come in. I see you have a drum, are you by chance a bard? Good bards have been so hard to come by lately."
She walks with you into the party and the revelers look over at the two of you, apparently unconcerned with the fact that armed adventurers of different races have joined.
From out of nowhere, your both handed a full flagon of what appears a fine red wine. By a couple of fine looking centaurs and the one in the middle has hers refilled as well.
Near the house, sitting in a high seat that is well adorned with red ribbons and roses of different colors, is a large almost obese centaur, with his own personal keg sitting next to him. A member of the crowd goes wide eyed as the two enter and he runs up to the man in the seat. He seems to be gesturing toward Zeoll specifically and without restraint he is seen to be playing, air drums, to demonstrate perhaps the instrument that is quite obvious to all. The fat merchant seems interested and speaks to the one that has informed him of your presence. He says something to the younger centaur and you can see, that same centaur that informed the merchant of your presence now approaches you. Unfortunatly, with all the commotion from the party, they can not be heard.
"Pardon me lords", he says as he approaches Zeoll and Brahmah, he addresses Zeoll specifically, "But are you the great bard Zeoll? Oh please say it is so, the master of the residence requests a performance at your leisure and you and your friends are more then welcome to join the festivities. Dinner will begin soon as well and your requested at the main table."
He bows gracefully and if you look back to the taur in the high seat, you can see his eyes are bright and his smile unwavering.
Winterglade d20+1=20 ; Thursday August 14th, 2008 4:46:43 AM
Winterglade stops next to Gecktar. "Good heavens, does this place feel strange! Taurs having a merry party while everywhere else the world is going to Nine Hells in handbasket. They could be good friends with Blackmane."
Deciding that a bit of snuffing around can't hurt Winterglade starts to mingle, too. He stays clear of Zeoll so that he doesn't ruin his show. Instead he chooses to talk to some of the lesser guests, and preferably those whose tongues have been already loosened by a bit of drink. He is interested in learning what is the cause of this celebration, do these parties happen very often, who organizes them and how the host and his guests view recent events and change of command at the Fort [Gather Information 20; 22 if they follow Wold gods].
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) Thursday August 14th, 2008 8:42:34 AM
Unlike Goodbarrel, Mac remains with Gecktar at the entry to the estate.
"So, there's a storm coming, and these good people are having a party. Does that sound right to you?"
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+12=22 ; d20+22=26 ; d20+22=37 ; d20+22=32 ; d20+22=42 ; d20+16=33 ; d20+16=24 ; d20+16=18 ; Thursday August 14th, 2008 2:45:59 PM
[OOC: Buzz, sorry, I was trying to do too much in one post. I didn't know if this was just a chance flavor encounter we should finish up fast or maybe something more. Thanks for clarifying!]
Zeoll enters smiling! He schmoozes with the centaur who greets him, and then with the chubby one who seems to be the host of the party. (Here's the first Diplomacy check from yesterday: a 36.) He keeps concentrating his active Detect Magic spell for as long as it lasts, using his concentration skill to do so while schmoozing (New Concentration check is a 22 to do so). And maybe Bluffing as needed so no one is suspicious (New Bluff check is a 26).
Zeoll introduces his friends to the company. As he does so, he sends a secret message to the casters in the group: Bluff checks to send secret messages: 37, 32, 42 ... all easily beating the DC20 check needed for sending a complex secret message. To party casters, I'm detecting faint auras around these folks. Someone with better Spellcraft than me should cast a detect on the sly and check it out, maybe when I'm distracting them with a song.
The liontaur greets the lord of the manor and is glad to offer some singing: First Perform check from yesterday is a 45. Then it is time for mixing and mingling. Zeoll is sure that getting to know these fine people will be no problem. But Zeoll regretfully declines dinner, hopefully with no hard feelings: "A storrm is coming, and we have an adventurre to purrsue (Second dip check, a 40).
Now he uses his eyes and ears ... Spot 33, Listen 15). And he tries to get a feel for whether any of these folks have been enchanted or charmed. New Sense Motive checks to do this: 33, 24, 18.
Zeoll keeps the eyes of the revelers on him with another song before the Chosen leave -- this one is a bardic fascinate, and the Will save DC to resist is the same as the Perform Check: a 44. The refrain of his song is this:
Oh come, good frriends and join in rrevelrry! Salute the Lorrd -- we feast at his decrree! Salute the Lady! Bless ourr jubilee!
[OOC: In this way Zeoll hopes to lull the Lord into being more receptive to the suggestion, see below.]
The trained bard and seer focuses the Fascinate on the Lord of the Manor, and tries to implant a Suggestion into the song: That he should tell Zeoll about his dealings with Blackmane and with the priests of Caeroldra. The save DC vs the suggestion is a 20.
After the song, Zeoll hopes to get back ont he road to Fort Stag with minimal delay.
[OOC: Buzz, if I've tried (AGAIN) to do too much with one post, then cut me off as you see fit! LOL!]
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) Thursday August 14th, 2008 4:44:50 PM
Watching the tableau, Tiba taps her hoof in time withthe beat. However, she'll stay back, away from the partiers.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) ALARM 10hrs Thursday August 14th, 2008 5:04:59 PM
Brahmah remains quiet, saying hello to those who speak to him and talking only when IF IS NECESSARY, otherwise he nods stupidly and looks unimportant.
He too avoids food, drink or smelling flowers, or smelling anything for that matter. In fact, he is jumpy at little things... a plung from a lute, which sounds like a bow string release, a thump from a percussion, which sounds like a shield being struck... etc. He really is beginning to dislike parties.
Gecktar d20+16=33 ; Thursday August 14th, 2008 8:07:56 PM
Gecktar answers to Glade "Yes, it's obvious that there is something strange..."
"And you're right, to be here the lord should have many relations."
Seeing that they are welcomed Gecktar come close from his Captain and Zeoll. Receiving the hidden message of Zeoll he looks attentively to try to dicern active spell manifestations. (Spellcraft 33)
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+16=31 ; Thursday August 14th, 2008 10:52:16 PM
Not drinking anything but holding the glass as if he is drinking. Says to anyone nearby "Nice party."
While everyone is enjoying themselves he casts Detect magic and tries to see what he can see.
Spell Craft 31
Clouds abound/DM Buzz d20+9=11 ; d20+1=19 ; Friday August 15th, 2008 12:07:26 AM Winterglade does his own thing while Zeoll does his. Tongues indeed do wag and when the current affairs of the area is mentioned, people seem to think, they are better off. Taxes have been waved. With this, a price in all commodities have dropped. Nothing though is mentioned about Jacktar. One female centaur seems to set her eyes on "Goodbarrel" and tells him Winterglade only Highlight to display spoiler: {"Malica has been chosen by Blackmaine to be the new Fort Manager until the winter solstice at the next election."}
Mac decides to stay near Gecktar and wonders at the party during a storm.
Zeoll tries to get across to the others that came in with him, he needs help. Sorry all, but an opposing Sense Motive check is necessary to translate a Bluff. I will roll for the characters that mention it in their posts that they do so. The DC for this is 20 Zeoll does not detect magic on the one who introduces himself as Malica and the only bard of the party mesmerizes the crowd with his first performance, and near the end, the rain begins to fall steadily. That's all you can get in for now.
Tiba stands off to herself, inside the estate, but it isn't long before she is surrounded by four fairly handsome centaurs that would "Like to get to know her better" and they all swear, the wine from their goblet tastes better then any others, as they offer her a drink. Her below average charisma easily offset by the low quantity of women at the party.
Brahmah with his reserved nature, accomplishes with success his unwillingness to be social. He's pretty much left alone except for the casual and respectful "excuse me" or "beg your pardon" as people pass him.
Gecktar enters the party after a noticeable welcome is offered. However, with the Bluff from Zeoll to take a hint, he believes that everything is alright and there is no magic about. Rolled 11 for Sense Motive. I did not include the -2 penalty to the roll, taking it from your sheet, so you receive false information
Theorex initiates a conversation with members of the crowd. Even with his smaller then normal stature though, he is well received and he in fact knows some people from around town, from their various businesses. Rolled 19 for Sense Motive. I did not include the -2 to your Sense Motive check. You failed by less then four so you neither received Zeolls bluff, nor do you have wrong information.
Zeoll is a huge hit, of course and only adds to the atmosphere of the party. But soon rain begins to fall and those that made their check earlier in the day knows, it's not close to what it will become. Malica expresses his concerns for Zeolls drums and asks if a canopy could be raised for him, when the estate cook comes out to tell everyone, dinner is served. Before Zeoll could plant a suggestion with his next song, Malica invites everyone inside to the dinning room. He looks to Zeoll and the others and as he flips the bard a Platnum Piece he says, "There will be one of those for each performance you share with us this evening, if your interested." then, pulling his very expensive cloak around his shoulders, to avoid the majority of falling moisture, he walks toward the very large house without looking back to see if he is followed.
All the Chosen, now on the estate grounds, are all but abducted, as arms are set around yours, guiding you to the house. In no way, does this seem suspicious to you, unless you are apprehensive of things and people by nature. Any resistance though is respectfully acknowledged and no one forces anything upon you if you decline.
Nothing of note was spotted or heard.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Heroism) d20+15=22 ; Friday August 15th, 2008 6:16:33 AM In no way, does this seem suspicious to you, unless you are apprehensive of things and people by nature.
Zeoll is a little disappointed that the rain has come so soon, dampening his hopes of learning something from these people.
But -- LOL! -- after our recent experiences with the evil Doctor Mauroth (not to mention that Zeoll has been more cautious than ever after being dead for a few years), there can be no question that the liontaur is both apprehesive and suspicious by nature! Just as he has tasted no drink and eaten nothing at all, there is no way Zeoll is entering the house. Instead, he makes his excuses that the Chosen have very pressing business elsewhere, and then he makes his exit, hopefully with everyone together, walking briskly in the rain toward Fort Stag.
That's Zeoll's Dip 40 check to make a polite farewell with no hard feelings.
Once they are on the way, Zeoll says to his friends (for their ears alone), "My hearrt suggests that therre is morre herre than meets the eye, but I fearr to enterr that house, and we must use the storrm while we can. I would prray to Grreat Domi to ease that fearr, but in trruth, we need to get to Blackmaine as soon as we can!"
"Come my frriends! This way!"
The liontaur turns now to his druid skills, hoping that with Brahmah and Tiba he can find the fastest way to their destination, despite the rain. Survival 22.
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) Friday August 15th, 2008 6:43:34 AM
Hearing Zeoll and his entreaty, she pauses a moment to rub her forearm, a palm sized tattoo of fog surrouonding the base of a mountain or volcano... She has been suspicious of the 4 taurs, as her own brothers used to tease her, calling her 'nag' in her teenage years. Shrugging at the thought, she also remember that she went to the Druids initially because of this, and how her life turned out since then.
As soon as the rain and fog have melded, she will send Assap to find the others, including Heyoo, to regroup themaround Zeoll... _________________________________ Bramah's Tattoos - 2 lvl --Fog Cloud
(DM- if I am trying to do too many things this round please go ahead and break it up as you see fit.)
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) d20+20=31 ; Friday August 15th, 2008 8:37:53 AM
Brahmah is relieved to be out of that party, but has to admit, now that they have seen some Chosen and the new people with the Chosen, that little ruse is less likely to work now.
(Survival 31) "This way." He takes a route which more or less traverses the main streets and keeps to alleys, much like his former pirate days. "Keep to alleys, more our type of peoples there." Smitty would say.
Winterglade Friday August 15th, 2008 12:59:33 PM
"Goodbarrel did a bit of eavesdropping. Blackmaine supposedly <chose> this Malica to be the next Fort Manager. In other words, the people there at the party are his supporters."
"We can't just remove him. We need to expose his wrongdoings: murder, high treason, necromancy - such things, and with proofs solid enough that taurs will have no choice but to reject him. If we just kill him off we could trigger a civil war!"
"This will be hard, frustrating, delicate work, but Goodbarrel feels that if we try to take a shortcut and act without really knowing what is going on we could have a disaster on our hands. The gnome mage might be our best mark. Capture him, charm or dominate him, and squeeze all the secrets out of him."
Gecktar Friday August 15th, 2008 5:54:13 PM "Wise words Goodbarrel, Wise words."
"I think that our return to Fort Stag is no more a secret now... There should be spies here."
"So let's go"
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Friday August 15th, 2008 7:16:58 PM
Sigh
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d4+9=13 ; Friday August 15th, 2008 8:24:54 PM
As we head out Theorex smiles and thanks the people around him for the fun.
After he is out of sight he casts Prying Eyes lasts for 9 hours.
A sprinkle of dust and a pinch of something he throws into the air saying "yeb ournd su ver" and little eye shoot out near him and listen to his words.
"Circle me and my friends here and look for any danger within a 100 feet circle of us." 13 eye's shoot out and look in all directions. "One of you stay close to look behind me."
Winterglade Monday August 18th, 2008 4:37:47 AM
[Do we have a plan to act on once we get past the gate? I've just gone over my character sheet. I don't have much to aid in spy work - just Divination and Scrying, and I would have to buy material components for both. Gilles, what was it that blocked your attempt at divination earlier? (I asked in character but you must have missed it).]
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Heroism) Monday August 18th, 2008 7:47:42 AM
As the Chosen walk forward in the rain, Zeoll outlines his ideas for a plan.
We head to the shore outside the city. We use water breathing -- Do we have one or two of those spells prepped? -- to sneak into the harbor. Zeoll sneaks invisibly to the Harbor Master's office, and if he is there, see if he knows where Blackmaine is right now. If so, go there. If not, go to the jail where Zeoll and Brahmah saw him before. Once there, sneak or break in, find Blackmaine, or if he is not there, charm an underling into telling us where he is. Go there.
Once we find Blackmaine, we either kill him or capture him.
As for Glade's point about going after the gnome wizard instead, well, we don;t know where he is, don't have any way to find out, don't have any teleport ability to chase him, and he may just be a hireling.
Zeoll is still in favor of cutting off the head of this sorry mess. Scum like Malica we can deal with later, either through diplomacy, or if he turns out to be a killer of Taurs, with justice.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Monday August 18th, 2008 11:00:59 AM
"Good idea Z."
Post/DM Buzz Monday August 18th, 2008 11:23:19 AM
Coming this afternoon.
Gecktar Monday August 18th, 2008 2:09:59 PM
After thinking about it, Gecktar answers to Glade question "About what blocked my divination attemp, I think this could be a simple spell like a protection from divination. My question was too specific about the person we seek so even simple spell protecting this person could foil the divination"
Muddy roads/DM Buzz Monday August 18th, 2008 5:40:46 PM
As the group leaves the estate of Malica the merchant lord, the obscuring cloud of vapor from Tibas tattoo causes some people to stir and enter the house faster then the rain alone would have.
The Chosen enter the street Spot DC 15 only Highlight to display spoiler: { Across the street on the second floor balcony, at about 300 feet, a lone silhouette of a centaur can be seen. Glowing embers from a pipe brighten on an inhale and slowly dims. The creature turns around and enters through an ornate double glass door.}
The group plans their next course and some fear, they walked into some kind of trap, where spies are present. It's determined, they must travel more to the west and will follow the coast South again. They will likely have the full storm upon them by that time, it being about another hour with Theorex on foot. Survival DC 10 only Highlight to display spoiler: {The current wind speed is 10 mph constant with gusts up to 30. It will likely double in the next couple of hours.}
On their journey they see the construction of a large tower next to an average sized house. The tower is half complete with the scaffolding dismantled and laying off to the side, in preparation of the storm. Off to the other side of the two is a large barn with a light apparent from the side window.
Near here is the best and safest location to enter the water if that is the wish of the party. Preparation should be made and keep in mind, without strong swimming skills in the thrashing ocean, your just as likely to be pulled out to sea as smashed up against tightly packed, wet sand.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) d20+15=21 ; d20+20=39 ; Monday August 18th, 2008 7:29:24 PM
Spot 21, Survival 39 (more relating to favored enemies)
Brahmah says, "Winds going to get worse. We're not going to be able to hear ourselves think soon."
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Heroism) d20+15=33 ; d20+15=17 ; Monday August 18th, 2008 11:38:01 PM
Zeoll pauses.
"Huh. What if the surrf is too strrong? We could end up batterred."
He thinks for a minute.
What if we each had a small water elemental or two to carry us under water deeper out, where the storm will rage above us but leave us in peace? Could we climb out if the harbor without danger? The whole idea of a harbor is that storms are not as bad in sheltered water. What does Zeoll think?
Spot 33, Survival 17 ...
Zeoll mentions a centaur at a balcony far ahead. What to make of that he does not know.
If it will help the party move faster, Theorex can ride Zeoll. But the liontaur wonders if the armor clad minotaurs are not slowing the group down more.
DM Buzz: If you worded the summoning spell very carefully, it is possible for the water elementals to guide a creature through the water with control. Not necessarily fast, I will have to check to see what the strength of them are.
Also, the centaur smoking the pipe was across the street of Malicas party. The well groomed estate belonging to Foy and Myrer. Former Captain and Manager.
Winterglade d20+5=19 ; d20+7=24 ; Tuesday August 19th, 2008 4:01:05 AM
[Spot 19, Survival 24]
"Goodbarrel doesn't have Water Breathing prepared, sorry. The plan came up after he was done restoring his powers for the day. He should be able to traverse water by himself, though, unless the sea is too rough. He will need to borrow your ring of invisibility to remain hidden, though. One other person he can get into the Fort through Air Walk."
"Um, Zeoll, Goodbarrel is rather sure it was the Harbor Master we found dead in the privy. He is not likely to be in his office. Let's hope."
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) Tuesday August 19th, 2008 6:16:23 AM
Unsure as to what is being offered, Tiba looks at Zeoll. "I thought we had decided to go in the front way, using the storm as a cover? Going in through the spider-laden tunnels just seems like a bad idea, again."
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Heroism) Tuesday August 19th, 2008 7:35:19 AM
Zeoll clarifies for Tiba.
"No, we arre not going thrrough the tunnels. My plan is to enterr the Forrt underr the coverr of the storrm. I had hoped to do so frrom the harrborr, but Goodbarrrel herre makes two good points. Firrst, that the Harrborr Masterr is dead. Alas, that I failed to recognize him beforre the firreball. Second, it may be that we have NO Waterr Brreathing spell available. So maybe we will just have to enterr the city frrom land and hope the storrm will suffice to conceal us."
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Tuesday August 19th, 2008 8:49:34 AM
"Does anyone have an invisibility prepped or a potion or ring? I could use my Spider Climb tattoo to hold onto the rocks in the surf and I'm fairly strong. Or I can climb the walls and let you all in somehow."
Gecktar Tuesday August 19th, 2008 4:38:23 PM "Or maybe, we could just rest in the tower here, wait for the end of the storm or at least the strongest part, then memorize water breathing spells and go to the harbor and enter the city by the waters. At least the sky would be cloudy and the weather rainy so the visibility would be poor and we would be able to sneak into the boat that lead us there."
Decisions, decisions../DM Buzz Tuesday August 19th, 2008 7:02:22 PM
The rain now all but horizontal slams wickedly into the face and singed equipment of the Chosen. Yelling necessary for common conversations, they all know, it can't get much worse, weather wise.
They continue to discuss what next to do, when the storm noticeably and unexpectedly begins to calm down, slowly. Survival DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {This is not natural}
Down the beach a ways, a beautiful female wemic dances in the rain, unseen before do to the visibility. 600 feet to the south.
She twirls and spins with grace, her long, wet, flowing blond hair streaming behind her as she is seen bounding and springing, playing. Allowing the surf to hit her and the wind to spin her hair about her like a shawl, then back out and behind her in full glory. It is with her hair animated by the wind, she is seen in a sheer white blouse that covers her entire body. The rain, causing it to cling to her naked skin underneath, leaving nothing to the imagination.
If she has seen you, she does not seem to care.
DM Buzz: I really didn't get direction from you guys in the last posts and I know I'm not helping you much by all the little visuals you are receiving, but it is what it is.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Tuesday August 19th, 2008 10:06:53 PM
Spot roll
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+9=15 ; d20+4=12 ; Tuesday August 19th, 2008 10:16:24 PM
Occ: sorry hit submit instead of roll. Spot roll 15. Survival 12 If I know that the person smoking the pipe was in the house of the former Captain I would tell this to the party.
"I saw someone smoking a pipe in what I believe to be the former Captain's house. I think we should find him and talk to him and see what we can learn. I don't think we can sneak in this weather without drowning. We might be able to scale the walls with rope but if we are spotted we will look as if we were a thief. I believe we should find the lay of the land and that man smoking might be our key."
Winterglade d20+7=26 ; d20+15=23 ; Wednesday August 20th, 2008 4:57:40 AM
[Survival 26] Winterglade points to the lone linotaur on the beach. "See that lass? You think she has something to do with how the rain is unnaturally slowing down? A druid, maybe?" The centaur sniffs the air and quickly goes through his memory trying to recall what magic might be used to affect the weather in such way [Spellcraft check to identify a spell already in effect: 23. Will identify a spell up to 3rd level].
"Anybody wants to go tallk to her? Because with visibility reduced this much Goodbarrel can just cast Air Walk on the strongest of us and let that person carry everyone else, one by one, over the wall."
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) Wednesday August 20th, 2008 6:42:12 AM
Seeing the essentially naked female on the beach, she smiles humorously, then turns to Zeoll. "Yeah, this one's in your court. If there is ever a need to talk to a named male, I'll be happy to help out..."
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) ~OOC~ Wednesday August 20th, 2008 6:46:07 AM
Hey all!
I've got Tiba covered for our vacation coming up soon (thanks Cayzle!) However, I know Jim will be unable to hit the computer everyday, and we'll be gone from Aug 25-Sept 5. Is there anyone who could possibly cover for him during that time frame?
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Heroism) d20+10=11 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+13=14 ; Wednesday August 20th, 2008 10:19:38 AM
Zeoll grins at Winterglade's idea. "That's a grreat plan! Airrwalk forr the strrongest of us -- is that you, Brrahmah? -- and he can carrry the rrest of us overr, one by one, hidden by the storrm! And whoeverr gets the airwalk can wearr my Invisibility rring."
He asks Theorex, "The Captain of what? Of a ship? How can he help us?"
Zeoll listens carefully to Theo and tries to remember what he can that might give him a hint of who this taur is, and how he could help: Know (history) = 11 (nat 1!); Know Local Untrained = 24; Bard Lore = 14 (ANOTHER nat 1!).
Then the storm worsens ... and he sees the liontaur female figure. He stops, flabbergasted for a moment. He is too troubled to laugh at Tiba's joke.
Then he speaks, shouting to be heard over the storm, using his bardic training to make his voice clear to his friends. "Frrriends, what would a liontaurr be doing herre, on Centaurr Isle, in the storrn, dancing, beyond the bounds of prropriety? I have drreamed that the God of Passion has an interest herre, and the revels at Malica's estate confirm her influence. Maybe herre we see one of herr prriests, or some otherr porrtent of herr interrest. It will do us no good to engage herr!"
"Let's head forr the hearrt of Forrt Stag now, using the airrwalk to get over the wall, to wherre we can hope to find Blackmaine. Orr let's visit this Captain, if he can help us!"
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Wednesday August 20th, 2008 11:43:01 AM
"If we use airwalk, I think invisiblity would be a good thing. Maybe that globe of invisibility if anyone has it. By the gods, I remember when I thought it would be neat to be famous, now we're skulking like common thugs. If I had my badge I would just walk in, demand to see the prat in charge and there you are."
Gecktar d20+16=35 ; Wednesday August 20th, 2008 6:29:03 PM "I don't want to be a mess but if someone uses such a spell in the storm he will be blown away by the strength of the wind, and we will find him dozen miles away..."
"No, no, really, this is not a good idea"
"But what about saying hello to this centaur female that seems to lessen the storm"
(OOC spellcraft check 35 to identify a potential spell)
DM Buzz: Without actually seeing or hearing a spell cast, not really. You would know that very few spells are powerful enough to alter a weather system.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Heroism) Wednesday August 20th, 2008 7:43:42 PM
Zeoll gapes at Gecktar. "My frriend, do not be fooled. THAT is a prriestess orr --" his voice drops to an almost inaudible level "-- avatar -- of the Goddess of Passion. At best, she serrves herr own agenda, not ourrs. At worrst, you will be charrmed and lost to us if you attend herr. Turrn away, frriend, turrn away!"
Unless there is something to this Captain, Zeoll urges the group to sneak to the Fort wall, wait for the wind to die down, and then airwalk across and into the heart of the Fort.
Watching ramparts/DM Buzz Wednesday August 20th, 2008 11:16:20 PM
Through the rain that is now slowing, but still existent, you can see, the walls are manned by guards, some of which are watching the liontaur maidens sultry dance. She continues as she was as the group decides on what to do?
Should they visit a previous Fort Captain and Manager, that resided across the street from the party, in what is a well kept estate in a community of chaos?
Perhaps they should wait the calming storm out in a structure under construction, on a property that belongs to someone else?
Will they use magic to try and cross over what appears to be a well secured fort wall?
Could they get information from a Wemic that dances in the rain against all common sense?
Stay tuned faithful reader, for what may happen next.
Winterglade Thursday August 21st, 2008 3:08:24 AM
Winterglade glances at the wall. The visibility is much higher than he would like; besides, the remark of Gecktar about the risk of being blown away has given him second thoughts about his airwalking plan.
"Let's stay away from that dancing furball, yes? The guards are watching her. If we are seen with her they will immediately know we are coming."
[Buzz, what is the visibility right now? Would by Winterglade's estimate somebody who is Airwalking be at risk of being blown away by the wind?]
[Buzz, isn't there an option to use Spellcraft to identify the spell by observing its effects only? I can see that in the description of the Spellcraft skill in the SRD I use. The difficulty is higher than for identifying a spell you see or hear being cast, but it is possible.]
DM Buzz: Visibility is between five hundred and eight hundred feet, depending on the gust, which is much improved before ten minutes ago, when it was at sixty to 200 feet depending on the gusts.
DM Buzz: at 30+ on a skill check a person would "Understand a strange or unique magical effect, such as the effects of a magic stream. Time required varies. No retry" but it does not say that the person can discern an exact spell from a multitude of spells, that could explain a sensory effect. With the check though as I said, it could be a Control Weather spell, or a Limited Wish spell, or even a Wish spell and the person would not know one from the other, just by witnessing the results.
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) Thursday August 21st, 2008 9:55:49 AM
After a long silence, Mac speaks up. "You've been talking magic which isn't my forte, and tactics which, while I am interested, isn't something I'm likely to be able to add to, given my unfamiliarity with the Fort and its occupants. That said, I like the flying-over-the-wall idea. I've done something similar in the past. Fly, enlarge, enhanced strength and group invisibility of some kind... shouldn't be a problem getting everyone over the wall at once."
"Yes, and giving the lady a wide berth sounds like a good idea here too."
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) ~OOC~ Thursday August 21st, 2008 12:47:09 PM
Eyes twinkling, she clasps her hands tightly, as if to keep from clapping.
"Then shall we move on?" And looks towards the location of the city they're headed.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Thursday August 21st, 2008 1:39:33 PM
"Heyoo, stay here."
"Okay. Seems we have a good plan. We go over the wall. I will climb it first to take a visual then give you all the sign to move. Theorex, do you have an invisibility ready? Or that eyes spell I saw earlier?"
He looks at the drow. "You you be against accompaning me up the wall and getting a view of the place from on high? I can piggy-back you if you like or I can carry you."
He casts Spider Climb from his tattoo. "Anyone else want to climb who doesn't like flying? I'll cast on them too."
[OOC: Jay, I fixed your header. - Cayzle]
OOC: Cayzle, what was wrong with it?
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Heroism) Thursday August 21st, 2008 4:31:17 PM
Zeoll moves with the group toward the heart of Fort Stag, looking for a place for the group to hide that is close to the wall. Hopefully we will be moving away from teh dancing vixen, and get under some cover so that we are not riduculous in our efforts to be sneaky.
Zeoll gives his Invisibility Ring to Brahmah and also gives him an Elixer of Sneakiness (+10 Move Silent for one hour). He says, "Go on yourr own now, while the winds arre high, and look arround. Then rreturrn when the winds die down a little, use the Airr Walk, and carrry us overr one by one. Okay?"
He asks Theorex if his eyes can watch while the party passes over the wall.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+9=16 ; d20+9=29 ; Thursday August 21st, 2008 9:59:28 PM
"Yes my eyes can watch 400 feet of the wall we are going to climb and let me know if anyone should be able to see us. I also can cast one invisibility spell today. This spell would allow the person to attack and still not be seen."
Occ: Tell Eyes to check the wall and area for anyone who might see us. Spot 16. Spot 29
Don't know how many spot checks you want my eyes to make.
DM Buzz: Theorex realizes, the eyes have the same chance of seeing things that he does, while they are close. They move much slower then everyone else also. They are not very useful in a wide open area.
Plans in motion/DM Buzz Thursday August 21st, 2008 11:58:53 PM Winterglade can tell, the storm is lessening in an unnatural fashion and after a few minutes, the group can see much further then before. The four legged female that pulls on various emotions as well as the fort wall, with guards walking their posts. Some watching the primal dancer, as she, like a kitten, pounces on the waves as they slam against the shore.
After much discussion, it is Theorex that believes, they should find information and perhaps allies, at the dapper estate across from the party. Others however feel, scaling the wall with magic or rope the best way to go. Tiba opens herself up for dealing with nude men in the future and it is mixed on whether the dancing female is worth approaching and asks why they don't just walk in through the front gates, covered by the storm.
Zeoll seems positive that the influences of passion are everywhere.
Gecktar knows, even with the wind slowing, it is still very strong and the use of an Air Walk spell would be difficult. Especially, if the wind is stronger in a higher elevation.
Mac admits, his forte is in weapons, not magic.
The sewer at this time is likely full of water as well, leaving that much more dangerous then the last time it was used.
The group pools their resources and they realize, they are lacking handy disposable magic at this time, so other measures must be taken.
Brahmah prepares to do whatever it is he was going to, to scale the wall.
They approach closer to the walls and it can be seen, one of the guards has spotted you as well. He motions for you to approach waving his arm toward you. He is also seen attempting to yell something, but it is very difficult to understand him in the weather. Listen DC 30 Highlight to display spoiler: {What are you people doing out in this? Either get in your house, the fort or back to Malicas'!}
For those of you with spells active, please keep a chart at the bottom of your posts for the durations. Thank you.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Heroism) Friday August 22nd, 2008 7:53:22 AM
Aaargh!
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) d20+1=6 ; Friday August 22nd, 2008 10:16:31 AM
"Is he inviting us in, or telling us to go away?" adds Mac, utterly perplexed.
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) ~OOC~ d20+17=20 ; Friday August 22nd, 2008 12:10:36 PM
Looking at Mac, she all but shouts "I dunno!" Leaning into the storm as much as necessary, she looks at Zeoll and Bramah, then heads towards the Guard. If she is stopped by someone, she will happily do so. ____________________________________ Listen= (d20)+17=20 ____________________________________ Level 0: 4 (Druid) Detect Poison (x2), Detect Magic, Create Water
Level 1: (Druid/Ranger) Shilleagh, CLW (x2)/Detect Plants or Animals, Entangle
Level 2: (Druid) Lesser Restoration, Barkskin
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) d20+14=16 ; Friday August 22nd, 2008 12:11:51 PM
"The dancing kitty is calling the storm." Its a statement.
Not hearing the guard, Brahmah simply looks at the wall, looks at the guard, looks at the group and screams, "I'm not bothering with the wall, it looks as if he's telling us to get in. If we try scaling, it could be reason to jail us." He walks right in through the front gate, past the dancers, guards and anyone else skulking.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Heroism) Friday August 22nd, 2008 1:47:22 PM
Zeoll laughs at Brahmah's solution, maybe in admiration, maybe in amazement. He too enters the fort, following Brahmah. "Come on, everybody! Looks like we'rre imprrovising!"
By the way, Zeoll has used two second level bard spells (Heroism twice, the second just now and extended with his rod) and did NOT give Brahmah his ring or elixer. He does take the time to drink an elixer himself as he might need to be sneaky in the next hour.
Active: Heroism (extended to 160 minutes), Sneaky (60 minutes).
Used: 2 second level bard spells, 1 use of rod of metamagic extend.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Heroism) Friday August 22nd, 2008 4:51:04 PM
OOC Note By Cayzle -- I'll be taking over Tiba starting Monday.
OOC/DM Buzz Friday August 22nd, 2008 5:36:37 PM
Did Theorex get covered?
Anyone have the time, or should I have him watching the dancer for the time he is gone?
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) ~OOC~ Friday August 22nd, 2008 6:04:16 PM
OOC: Theorex, so far, isn't covered... if someone is interested, please let Jim or I know, here or by email. DM, if you think it best, just please don't kill him outright. <grin>
DM Buzz: Where's the fun in that for either of us? Now, he may be captured, tortured and left to die somewhere at sea, but I would NEVER kill him outright..... :)
Gecktar doesn't understand one word of what could say the guard, but haven seen them, they have not other option than getting through the gate
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Saturday August 23rd, 2008 11:47:53 AM
OOC Jay here. I'll cover Theorex. Is there a current prepared spell list?
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) ~OOC~ Saturday August 23rd, 2008 4:02:57 PM
Check the last 30 days. He believes he listed it in there. He has done the eyes spells a couple of times so far, but other than that...
BTW-he thanks you!
Winterglade Sunday August 24th, 2008 5:31:50 AM
Winterglade sighs and starts to trot after the party. If anybody turns around he'll see that the centaur has a particularily unhappy expression on his face. "Why does Goodbarrel get this feeling that he is walking into his own grave?"
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Sunday August 24th, 2008 10:50:00 AM
Brahmah has little concern about what is going to happen with this Blackmane character for the time being. The goal at the moment was to get into the fort, which was done completely legally, not scaling a wall when the door was open and with a guards invitation. This challenge was over. Knowing that the new friends wouldn't or couldn't understand his view on the situation, Brahmah files away his explanation for later and moves on until another challenge presents itself. Domi seems to be guiding them, either to their peril or to his bidding, the ranger does not know.
"Hello." He waves cheerily at the guard who ushered them in, not knowing or caring if he was heard over the monsoon.
With an inch of mud under hoof, Brahmah steps carefully but hurries toward the structure the guard indicated.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Sunday August 24th, 2008 3:51:54 PM
Here is my list of spells I have memorized. I have only used prying eyes. This should be able to be used as a way to send out little hard to spot scouts to search from a distance ahead so we don't walk into anyone. If the DM could suggest how best to do this it would be much apprechated.
Thank you very much.
Jim 1st level spells DETECT SECRET DOORS, SLEEP, 2 x MAGIC MISSILE, IDENTIFY, BURNING HANDS 2nd SEE INVISIBILITY, SUMMON MONSTER, SUMMON SWARM, 3 x SCORCHING RAY Level 3 : 2 x FIREBALL, TONGUES, HASTE, DISPLACEMENT
Level 4 :
GLOBE OF INVULNERABILTY-LESSER, Arcane Eye, INVISIBILITY-GREATER, ICE STORM
Level 5 :
2 x CONE OF COLD, PRYING EYES
DM Buzz: Sorry Jim, but I can't see the eyes being effective in open spaces. The group moves fater then they do, unless they are walking and then, they have the same speed as you do. You would have to stand still for them to move ahead and "scout". If that is what you want to do, I will need to hear that, but I didn't. Now, you could have sent the eyes to the window of the barn to investigate, or the tower under construction, but you didn't. Now, you are heading into the fort.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+1=19 ; Sunday August 24th, 2008 3:56:21 PM
Following Brahmah lead he moves forward looking for anything out of place.
Spot from before 29. (see above)
Listen 19.
Winterglade Monday August 25th, 2008 5:08:35 AM
<Clop clop clop>
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Monday August 25th, 2008 8:00:49 AM
Brahmah strides in.
Theorex (Sub Jay) Monday August 25th, 2008 8:02:11 AM
Follows behind Brahmah, curious as to what the impatient minotaur will do next.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Invisible Heroism) Monday August 25th, 2008 4:59:34 PM
Zeoll wonders if the party knows what it is in for. On a whim, he activates his invisibility ring just before entering the gate.
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) ~Sub Cayzle~ d20+9=19 ; Monday August 25th, 2008 5:03:25 PM
Tiba tells her companion dog to heel as she enters the Fort, keeping as alert as possible. Spot 19.
A wet welcome/DM Buzz Monday August 25th, 2008 6:10:33 PM
The group need to walk about a quarter mile, from the east side of the wall, around to the South, uphill a ways. The fort, well designed to repel invaders of all types have steep slopes leading up to the Braie, with bushes and shrubs recently planted. The beginnings of a cobble stone road also apparent about one hundred feet from the main gate.
Approaching the gallery gate, the group sees a large billboard in very pretty calligraphy
Be it known to all who enter these gates. The following laws are now in place and violators will be subject to punishment, through humiliation, lashing, banishment or all of the above.
Spitting....................1 day in stocks. Littering...................2 days in stocks or five lashes. Public drunk............Stocks until sober and five lashes. Fighting...................20 lashes and/or banishment. Stealing...................20 lashes and banishment. Accidental death..... 20 lashes and 1 day in stocks. Murder...................100 lashes and five days in stocks and banishment.
Please do your part to keep this community well groomed and beautiful, so that we can enjoy it with all our heart.
Malica, the new fort manager, invites you all to his inaugural event this weekend. The populace and visitors are invited.
Other civil problems will be addressed by the new fort manager Malica, starting one week from this weekend.
Remember, to stay well groomed yourselves. A healthy and bright appearance outside makes a community stronger.
The group knows, the date corresponds with tomorrow. It should be a large event.
The gate, a large single, wooden door, iron bound, with a portcullis open, stands 15 tall and opens inward, has a large rope beside it, ascending up into a military drop box.
Upon pulling the cord, you hear above you a bell ring. A moment later, the door opens and is held at bay against the wind by a large centaur in leather armor. The group steps inside the gate house and the door is closed behind you, where it is now much easier to speak, with the wind and rain deflected by the security of the fort.
A smiling guard greets you, "Now then, I bid you welcome, what's your business here at Fort Stag?" he asks, as most of the group is not centaur, it's easy to assume your not all residents of the community.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Monday August 25th, 2008 7:53:16 PM
Occ:
Checking in and waiting for the others to respond. Since this is not his strong point.
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) Monday August 25th, 2008 8:12:24 PM
Prior to entering the gatehouse, Mac pauses to admire the artistry of the sign. Catching Goodbarrel as he passes he asks in hushed tones, "Is this important? I mean, important signs usually have big, thick words at the top, but this looks more like someone has taken words and tried to make them look like a picture."
OOC: this had to come up eventually.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky (not Invisible) Heroism) d20+4=7 ; d20+16=23 ; d20+28=42 ; d20+25=27 ; Monday August 25th, 2008 10:11:05 PM
Zeoll, invisible but dripping rainwater, also reveals his presence by speaking. "It's a beautiful sign; does it say anything imporrtant?" The liontaur is reluctant to waste his Read Magic and Comp Lang spell slots to gain an understanding of the writing. "I've never found the wrritten arrts to be all that compelling, despite what humans say."
As the party comes up to the gate, Zeoll is carefull to walk in Brahmah's shadow to minimize his obviousness (hide 7 plus 20 for invis minus whatever penalty the DM picks for dripping water). Also Move silently 23 with dex, race, heroism, and elixer untrained.
When the party is questioned by the gate, Zeoll makes a grand entrance by cancelling his invisibility with a drum roll, snapping his cloak, and singing, "TA DA! It is I, Zeoll, perforrmerr, seerr, and Chosen of Domi!"
Perform 42 to make a grand entrance.
"Let me thank you forr yourr warrm welcome to the city!" Zeoll says with his friendliest tone. He tries to put the guard at ease. he says that the Chosen are travellers here, that the group's boat is in the city, that they will be going back to it. He adds that the Chosen are the group of adventurers who destroyed the undead that had attacked the harbor a few days ago, using his diplomacy skills to slip it into the conversation without bragging.
Diplomacy 27 to put him at ease.
Zeoll offers, as a seer, to tell the guard's fortune.
Gecktar Tuesday August 26th, 2008 3:27:20 AM
Gecktar read aloud the "beautiful signs" to Zeoll and Mac before entering.
"Now you have all you need to stay in the right path. But I'm a bit confused... Who is this Malica they're talking about."
"Is it our Blackmane ?"
"And by the way I think this would be interesting to see how the population feast with the new fort manager. This would give us a sign of his popularity"
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Invisible Heroism) Tuesday August 26th, 2008 6:51:21 AM
Zeoll explains to Gecktar (and everybody) that Malica is the overweight centaur who was the host of the party we just left. He is a supporter of Blackmaine. Blackmaine wants to be the King of Centaur Island, and Malica is going to be Mayor of Fort Stag. Unless we stop them.
(The above spoken quietly, not in hearing of any guards.)
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) ~Sub Cayzle~ Tuesday August 26th, 2008 6:55:28 AM
Tiba thinks that as a centaur, she may have an edge here.
"Come, brother," she says, "these are friends to centaurs. They defended our harbor from undead. They are trying to help us."
Brahmah Tuesday August 26th, 2008 11:43:30 AM
The minotaur, who was about to say Business is our own., instead holds his tongue, entirely expecting Zeoll to do his thing, and there you have it. Diplomacy. Never got the hang. Oh well.
"Hello." Says the ranger, almost sizing up the centaur without realizing it.
A storm is here
Invisible encounters/DM Buzz Tuesday August 26th, 2008 9:03:18 PM
The group enters and the guard, after his greeting, looks curiously at the invisible creature dripping water and Theorex, surrounded by small eyes, until Zeoll suddenly appears with a flourish. The guard is taken aback a moment, reaching for his large Dire Flail and brandishing it in the wink of an eye, until the charm from the bard brings him back to an ease. He then nods in understanding, and places it back on his hip, in a much slower fashion "Ah, entertainers and prestidigitators eh?" He looks the three minotaur up and down, then toward Winterglade and Tiba "Which one of you are the animal trainers?" He laughs a moment, then holding up his left hand to the likely frowning minotaurs, "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, that was uncalled for, funny, but uncalled for. I tell you what, I'll buy you all a drink later to make it up to you." he shrugs off Tibas verse of diplomacy, "I said I was sorry."
Brahmah, Mac and Tiba can tell, this warrior is hardened and rarely is the gate captain not. His leather armor sporting marks of past battles with both weapon and beast and the combination of leather and dire flail means he is likely skilled and very dextrous, as well as muscular.
"Let me go through my spiel and you can be on your way." he reads the sign, that you see once again on the inside of the gate house. He goes over each one individually to insure there is an understanding of the current laws. "Now be warned, no ships are allowed to leave the harbor until the Fort Captain lifts the restriction, which should be a day or two, so you can go back to your boat if you like, or you can enjoy the various inns and taverns through out. The Constables office is on the North side of the fort. I hope to never have to see you there, if you know what I mean?" The last said with an eyebrow raised.
"I also suggest you keep your peace bindings on your weapons. You don't want to be involved with any fighting." He accentuates his words by once again pointing to the law on the sign he spoke of.
"Now, before I let you through, are there any questions, or would you prefer to leave?"
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Heroism) d20+16=25 ; Tuesday August 26th, 2008 9:57:13 PM
Zeoll listens very carefully to everything the gate guard says. He is looking at the guard's body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. When he goes over the rules, is he respectful? matter of fact? disdainful? Does he like these laws? Think they are a waste of time?
When the guard asks if there are any questions, Zeoll asks a few innocent ones -- innocent, that is, outwardly, but designed to help him understand the centaur's character. He laughs at the fellow's joke, and asks his name.
Here is the fundamental question -- is this fellow a follower of Blackmaine or of Jacktar?
Zeoll does his best to figure that out: Sense Motive 25.
Winterglade d20+1=7 Wednesday August 27th, 2008 3:16:06 AM
The centaur reads the offenses list and is rather puzzled. "A lashing and 5 days in stocks for murder? It is rather low penalty, don't you think? Most other communities consider murder a capital punishment crime. What do the locals say about it?" - he asks the guard, trying to gently prod him into talking about the mood in the city and the attitude of the populace towards recent changes [Gather Info 7].
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) Wednesday August 27th, 2008 8:13:48 AM
Mac lets the funny joke slide - not going to learn anything by coming to blows here. At the gate captain's offer of a round of drinks later he finally cracks what might pass for a smile.
He tries to get the odd question in between Zeoll and Goodbarrel, such as "Are there other ways of getting into trouble? I mean, are there other offences that aren't on the sign?" and "Can you explain to me exactly what the sign means by spitting, or how drunk (or public for that matter) one needs to avoid being in order to avoid being public drunk?"
To Goodbarrel he adds at a hush, "Don't forget the banishment! 100 lashes, 5 days in the stocks and banishment. If you survive 5 days you get sent on your... wait... have you ever heard of anyone surviving 100 lashes and then 5 days in the stocks?"
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Wednesday August 27th, 2008 11:58:03 AM
Brahmah calls for his sopping bear, who shakes off in the middle of the room as soon as he has entered. "Heyoo, no one else wants more of a shower, you daft bear!"
After chastising the black bear, Brahmah listens and has a few questions of his own. "Looks to me as you may have this job awhile. You like it? Hows the chain of command? I've been looking for a job like this after my job with the Chosen is over. I really like this place."
"Seems you've had a need for harsh punishment. Bad sort show up around here alot? I'm curious, because I'm a WLA member and was wondering if they have to be called in now and again." These statements are believable and from the heart, as well as fishing a bit for info, which the ranger needs SERIOUS practice at.
Gecktar d20+9=27 ; Wednesday August 27th, 2008 2:37:33 PM
Gecktar doesn't comment the guard's joke but instead look at the other guard trying to decipher if they approve or not what is going on
Tiba listens and looks around carefully. How many guards are at this gate? Where are they located?
Listen 21, Spot 21.
Is the storm dying down?
Many questions answered/DM Buzz d20+5=7 ; Wednesday August 27th, 2008 11:41:57 PM Zeoll has many questions, a diversion to perhaps learn other things. Highlight to display spoiler: {The guard is professional and friendly. He does not seem to distinguish himself in any way other then to serve his post and make sure visitors are informed of the standing laws. If he had an opinion, it is likely long burned out, by manner of repetition.}
At Winterglades disbelief in a stiff enough penalty for murder the fort has posted, Mac ponders if someone could live until banishment. A drink might sound good.
Brahmah asks some personal questions of the gate guard and informs him of his association with the WLA. Heyoo shakes the water off his fur and sits down next to Assap
Tiba and Gecktar look for this mans reinforcements.
Everyone can see above you, a solid planking ceiling, with murder holes, allowing the several guards above you all the ability to stab downward with spears using maximum coverage, or worse, pouring oil or acid down upon those within."
"My name is Gate Captain Goozma and the laws are simple enough. Blackmaine calls it tough love, I just follow orders. Spitting is considered rude and ugly, therefore banned in public. Public drunk is for people getting sick in the streets or passing out in front of shops. If you can get from one location to another while in control of your bodily functions, your likely alright. Accidental death is usually when people get into a fight and take things to far, or a drunk driving a cart kills a bystander. Laws are cumulative also. Murder, only the gods themselves would live through that ordeal of punishment. Mainly, these are in place to keep sailors and those seeking their passions from making the place ugly and disorderly. Never has a noncentaur been in the guard here. I'm not saying it's not possible, but one would have to prove their worth and commitment to the community first."
The Gate captain looks at you all curiously, "Pretty specific questions for people passing through on their way to their ship, but I'd be happy to share."
"I have the highest recurring position in the military. The current government set in place by the Corral in expectation of the Great Migration that occurred. They left right before it affected the Wold and Hollyhocks was the only one that remained to tend the grove of Whistal trees as the others went to perform Domis' bidding."
"We have no need of outside assistance in protection of our community." He says, with a hint of past memories and conflicts passing across his demeanor, "Many times we have repelled ships full of minotaurs and pirates that wish to prey on this land. We are not a weak race to begin with and when not fighting invaders, we have to deal with the likes of ankhegs, monster vermin and the occasional wyverns. Not to mention what crawls up out of the catacombs and water tunnels that run under Fort Stag and through this island." He tells a story of constant conflict in the region.
Winterglade Thursday August 28th, 2008 3:26:03 AM
[Mac:] "Have you ever heard of anyone surviving 100 lashes and then 5 days in the stocks?" "Ah. Good point."
The moment the centaur guard mentions commitment to community Winterglade classifies him as <good sort>. Damn. Would be a bloody shame to have to kill centaurs like this to get at Blackmane. And if we do take out Blackmane it will be them who are after us. And what about the good name of the Chosen? Acting in good faith they will pin on us the tab of traitors and murderers!
With every moment the centaur is having more and more second thoughts about the current plan.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Thursday August 28th, 2008 11:21:20 AM
"Seems to me this place is full of good people who have had to deal with more than they should. Who is this Blackmaine? Did he institute this tough love? Seems harsh to tell the truth. I would think fines might be best, or jail time, or both. Five lashes for littering? That seems real tough. Does one get stocked or lashed if their livestock.... well, you know, lays a road apple? Or someone drops some produce off a cart and doesn't notice?" He grimaces.
"To tell the truth..." He pauses. "...we haven't got a ship right now. We're traveling around, doing Domi's work. This was just the nearest shelter we could find before the storm hit. We'll be heading off as soon as this foul storm..." He thinks of a good analogy for what he's thinking. "...dies away."
Gecktar Thursday August 28th, 2008 3:39:12 PM "We just have to find a place to rest until the end of the storm. Well maybe could you give us some advices about respectful houses"
"Oh! and by the way, is there any temple of Domi in here. I haven't noticed one yet."
ooc/DM Buzz Thursday August 28th, 2008 7:37:08 PM
Waiting a bit longer for more posts.
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) Friday August 29th, 2008 6:04:46 AM
Goozma has done a good job of alaying Mac's concerns. He readies to enter the fort proper.
Winterglade Friday August 29th, 2008 12:02:56 PM
[On the side:] "We did kind of hire ourselves a ship, Captain. Rusty Fish Hook, remember? It should still be anchored at the harbour. Or were you trying to mislead the guard?"
"You clearly have the security of the fort well in hand, Captain Goozma. Thank you."
She wonders aloud if the party should go to the ship, or to find a place to rest, or something else.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Invisible Heroism) d20+25=45 ; Friday August 29th, 2008 1:27:30 PM
Seeing this honorable gate captain makes Zeoll wonder about their plan too. He thanks the Captain kindly and tries to part on a friendly note, allaying his suspicions. "A seerr is always currious," he says. (Diplomacy 45).
Once the party has moved on and entered the Fort, Zeoll says to his friends that it may not be enough to just kill Blackmaine. "We need prroof that he is a usurrperr. That it was he who killed the mayorr and the mayorr's daughterr, and sent the gnome who killed the harbormasterr and almost killed Jacktarr."
Zeoll says that with proof in hand, those centaurs of good faith, such as Goozma, will see the justice in killing Blackmane.
But how to get that proof?
Speak with dead? Talk with the Mayor and/or his daughter? Find out who raised those undead at the harbor and the golems in the sewers?
Go to the Temple of Domi tended by the Druids at the Whistal Grove? Hollyhocks may be there. That is where my heart leads me. We are dealing with divine issues here. The goddess of passion is trying to gain influence. Did you notice that the new laws are more concerned with beauty than justice?
We could go to the party. Blackmaine will likely be there, in a crowd. If I can get within 40 feet or so, I can Suggest to him something like, "Tell us how the Mayor and his daughter really died, and who killed them." If he does not resist my magic; and my magic is pretty strong, that would give us our confession, and then we could attack without mercy. Or I could make another Suggestion, like "Surrender to us now."
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Friday August 29th, 2008 7:21:21 PM
"I think we should go on to the Druid and gain more information before something rash is done and your good name is ruined."
Gecktar Friday August 29th, 2008 7:42:41 PM "You are right Zeoll. We need proofs to throw down Blackmane. It is not much constructive as we don't know how and where we could find something"
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Saturday August 30th, 2008 12:02:25 AM
Brahmah just remains quiet.
(OOC: Frankly can't remember a ship. But is been a long month.)
Winterglade Saturday August 30th, 2008 4:33:35 AM
The centaur grins and thrusts his hands in the air. "Well by the holy nightcap of Alemi, finally we are talking sense! We need proofs, proofs that can be demonstrated to the rest of the guard. A Suggestion and confession might not be enough, especially if it can't be repeated on accout of Blackmaine being, you know, dead, yes?"
"The fact that he installs the fort manager tomorrow is a great hindrance. He will be much harder to dispose of once there are people in position of power that will view a challenge to Blackmaine as a challenge to their own status as well."
"I suggest we spend this night very busily, trying to find out what we can. If we find enough proofs we challenge him tomorrow. If not, we will have to look some more and do it later the hard way, with Malica opposing us as well."
"But how should we start?"
[What is the time of the day/night?]
Entrance/DM Buzz Saturday August 30th, 2008 1:58:34 PM Winterglade seems to like the Gate captain and would regret doing him and others like him harm. Perhaps instead of heros they will be labeled villains if a new plan is not executed.
Brahmah has more questions after he expresses his condolences on the areas problems. The storm outside effecting his memory of how they came to the island.
Gecktar asks for recommendations on safe lodging and the status of a temple.
Mac feels like the head guardsman has done his job well.
Tiba commends the guardsman and asks the party what are they to do?
Zeoll wishes to leave the guard on good terms and upon entering the large fort, discuss what is next.
Theorex suggests seeing the druid at the temple.
Before the guard Goozma lets them go, he finishes answering their questions. "Blackmaine was chosen by the community as a replacement to the deserter Jacktar. He did institute the "tough love policy". He would rather not take money from the populace for some reason. It seems he is loaded anyway, handing out gifts to people in all manner of ways. He also doesn't believe in free loading or slavery, so jail is fruitless. Animal waste is cleaned up by the Scoopers that roam the city. They shouldn't have to clean up after that which can think rational. Ultimately, it's up to the guard that is dealing with the problem to decide on the situation."
"There are lots of taverns and inns. The one where the sailors go, by the docks, is called the Drunken Stupor. Fights are allowed on the inside and the likes of a few of you will solicit some challenges I'm sure. Then there is the Bottoms Up. It's a house of, well, you know. Visitors only stay a few hours there, if you know what I mean. The Vineyard is where merchants tend to go, that's a safe spot. I like the quiet locations myself, just down the street is the Silver Ring Inn. They have a good house ale. Very consistent."
"There are no druids or priests to Domi in town. Not since Hollyhocks came up missing the night the mayor was found dead and the body came up missing. Not a sermon in weeks, the town is suffering from it too."
"Open the inner gates!" He shouts up above you all and you can see the fort protects the inner wall from the wind and the rain still falls. "Stay out of trouble and have a good time."
When you all exit you hear his voice behind you. "Close the inner gate and prepare for the guard shifts."
The time of day is now about 6 PM and it is dark, mostly from the storm, then sunset. I'm not sure what Zeoll means by "the mayors daughter". I haven't seen that in the archives.
Winterglade Sunday August 31st, 2008 5:28:09 AM
[During our first meeting Blackmaine claimed that Jacktar killed mayor's daughter.]
Winterglade considers what the guard tells him. Later, when the party is left to themselves, he asks: "Did we do a Detect Evil on Jacktar?"
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Sunday August 31st, 2008 1:25:02 PM
"I think we usually take things for granted..." He whispers as he passes with the Chosen through gates. "...and if Jacktar was lying for some reason, then we have a big problem. Who is the evil or misguided one one? Besides, if Jacktar was smart enough for the deception, which we seem to fall for FAR too easily, he will have protected his alignment and possibly even protected against scrying. It is even possible that one or both are have been coerced or enchanted. Please, Chosen, here, we eat and drink nothing beyond what we brought with us or can summon from the Gods." The ranger looks around with more suspicion. "Things are going to get sticky and dangerous. Its Doctor Mauroth's island all over again! Lets not allow lightning to strike twice."
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Monday September 1st, 2008 11:12:32 AM
OOC: Anyone hear from Ceil lately? Is Flat-top not with us? Does she need a sub?
DM Buzz: I'll be writing to her again real soon.
Gecktar Monday September 1st, 2008 11:58:38 AM
[Winterglade] : "Did we do a Detect Evil on Jacktar?"
Gecktar answers "I scaned all the camp for any trace of evil and found none. I think that I would have detected it if he was. And I don't see Hollyhocks allying with Jacktar if not sure to defend the right cause... But I may be wrong on this..."
"My choice goes on the Vineyard or the Silver Ring. And nobody starts a Inn fight..."
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Heroism) Monday September 1st, 2008 1:43:24 PM
Zeoll finds that his mind is flopping around again.
"My frriends, this is not just the overrthrrow of the goverrnment! This is a warr on Domi himself! You hearrd the gate captain! Wherre arre the prriests and drruids of Domi? My drream told me that Caerroldrra is gaining in influence. How soon beforre therre arre temples to the God of Passion herre, in Domi's place? How soon beforre she trries to corrupt ourr people? I bet this festival tomorrrow is going to include prractices, and maybe prrayerrs, of the Temptrress herrself."
"Chosen of Domi, we cannot let this stand! Let therre be no doubt! It is Domi who chose us, not Caeroldra! It is Domi who made the Taurr races. We must be loyal to Him, and save the people herre in his name!"
"The guarrd said therre arre no prriests of Domi herre. But he was wrrong! Therre are fourr! Winterrglade and Gecktarr are high prriests! And Tiba and I arre drruids!"
"We should not go to a taverrn or a barr! Those are Caerroldrra's places! We must go to the Whistal Glade. The trrees therre arre wise and sacrred! I will ask them what happened, and they will tell me. Then, maybe we will do darrk worrk in the night, orr maybe we will rrest in that holy place and I can drream forr guidance frree of the foul influence of the god of passion."
Zeoll really insists that the Chosen go to the Whistal Glade, so he can cast Speak with Plants and find out what happened to the druids. Maybe that will give the prroof the Chosen need!
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) ~Sub Cayzle~ Monday September 1st, 2008 1:47:52 PM
As a druid and ranger, Tiba says that she is disturbed that all the priests are gone from the land. Maybe Tiba, a centaur herself, knew some of those priests. And she certainly would be more at home in the holy glade than in a bar. So she says she is inclined to agree with Zeoll, but she will do whatever the majority wishes.
Winterglade Tuesday September 2nd, 2008 2:12:08 AM
"Very well, let us go to the glade and see what we can find out."
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Tuesday September 2nd, 2008 4:30:48 AM
"I agree the glade seems like the place to go. We need information. Though we could get information from the bar but if it is posioned in some way then those who visit might be infuluenced. If a druid were to go there after and see if the drink or food is effected this would be a great point to show the people there then move on to the next place and show more people."
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) Tuesday September 2nd, 2008 5:18:29 AM
"The glade then?" adds Mac, just happy to be getting wherever they are going.
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) ~Sub Cayzle~ d20+9=17 ; d20+17=23 ; Tuesday September 2nd, 2008 7:22:38 AM
Tiba keeps alert with trained senses. She wants to know if the party is followed, or if there are spies in the glade. Spot 17, Listen 23.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Heroism) d20+12=29 ; d20+12=19 ; d20+25=38 ; Tuesday September 2nd, 2008 7:33:48 AM
Zeoll is glad there is agreement.
At the holy glade, he is alert to know if anything is not right. Know Nature 29.
He casts Speak With Plants both at the entrance, and at the heart of the Glade. (He has the spell prepped three times, and is using two of those now.) He introduces himself as a druid of Domi, and a friend of Hollyhocks. He tries to be friendly before getting too nosy. Wild Empathy 19, Diplomacy 38.
He needs to know where the druids went, what happened here to make them leave, and how the Chosen can contact them. If these trees are more wise and knowing than most, he will ask about Blackmane the usurper, about Caeroldra, about any necromancer or undead, about a gnome mage.
Other questions may arise naturally from the answers he hears. Zeoll also translates for the Chosen.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Tuesday September 2nd, 2008 12:06:45 PM
Brahmah looks as if he wants to say something but thinks better of it mid-stride. "Zeoll you nee.... Zeoll, is right. But I wouldn't go saying your a druid or their clerics too loudly. Who knows how many lashings you'll get for that, or maybe worse. Lets keep it quiet. Its bad enough we introduced ourselves as the Chosen." The ranger looks around. "I hate this place. It even feels oppressed."
Gloomy night/DM Buzz Tuesday September 2nd, 2008 12:27:43 PM
The group enters the fort proper and it is clear, the laws have been taken seriously. A dozen stocks for various sized criminals have been built at the main square and six of them are full. Three hold minotaurs, with clear welts across their back., the other three are large burly half orcs. One of them looks up as you enter and a large smile grows on his face, as he with a shackled hand, sends your group or someone within your group, a rude gesture.
It's easy to make your way to the temple of Domi. Through different walk ways, signs of a fist, jutting outward as if in a punch are posted with arrows to direct a visitor. The large and ancient trees easily protect those that seek refuge in their branches. There are visitors seen coming and going. Expressions of sadness in a time of a festival apparent.
The trees speak to Zeoll Highlight to display spoiler: { It has been almost a full season since someone has spoke with them. The last they heard from Hollyhocks, he groomed our branches and spoke of a large change in the world. Many of the priests and druids had to go elsewhere to stabilize areas the most effected by what he called a Great Migration. Many people come and go of various shapes and sizes. Some stay longer then others. They do not know the name of recent visitors, nor are they aware of the political situations in the area. They know there are wards against priests to the gods of testing on the temple, so none have entered. There is also a small parasitic infestation on the west side of the grove, they would like to have someone take a look at, please.}
In the crowd, those that are not praying at the alter, are talking in the community center of the complex.
No one knows what happened to Hollyhocks. Some people don't believe Jacktar is a murderer. Jacktar and Hollyhocks are on a secret mission. Blackmaine stabilized the town after the leaders came up murdered and missing. Domi is testing the community. Blackmaines new advisor is such a nice person. Malica is a respectable citizen of the community. Always kind and generous.
The group can stay here as long as they like. It seems some have taken it upon themselves to keep the place going, despite the lack of a temple leader.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Tuesday September 2nd, 2008 3:27:14 PM
"Who are the some who have taken upon themselves to keep the place going? What do they think has happened and have they noticed anything strange or out of place from the people in the city.?"
Winterglade d20+6=14 ; Wednesday September 3rd, 2008 6:30:10 AM
At the stocks Winterglade smiles back at the orc, waves, then picks up a rotten tomato from a nearby stall and throws it at his face [ranged touch attack hits AC14].
At the temple the centaur starts to shift uneasily, fighting a losing battle with himself. Finally he disappears. A moment later he can be heard starting a sermon from the main altar!
"Do NOT say that the Brawler is testing you! HE is NOT a god of testing! He is NOT testing you! YOU are testing HIM! His patience! Look at yourself and ask - are you still true to him and what he stands for? Do you have the courage to stand for what is right? Do you even seek to learn what is right, what is true, and what is a web of convenient lies fed to you by those who would see you fall away from HIM? Or are you content to live out your lives in comfort, while injustice happens outside your windows, in the house next door, on your streets? Let us all ask ourselves now - do we still remember the way of our maker!?..." - Winterglade takes in a deep breath, visibly he is only warming up-
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Heroism) d20+28=39 ; d20+25=41 ; d20+19=30 ; Wednesday September 3rd, 2008 2:37:53 PM
The Chosen get to the holy glade, and Winterglade preaches about how Domi is Not a god of testing. He does not make his followers pass tests!
Zeoll can only grin, since Winterglade is preaching exactly what Zeoll was thinking.
When Glade is done, Zeoll stands up and sings a hymn (to the tune of a common centaur hymn), using vice and drum to inspire the crowd and reinforce Glade's teaching.
Now let us prraise and honorr him, The god of both the brrave and weak! Oh Domi, fill us to the brrim With courrage grreat when things arre bleak!
But we all know, ourr lorrd is kind and neverr puts us to some test. Ourr strrength is grreatest when combined! Not sunderred, one against the rrest.
We prray forr wisdom in ourr tasks. With help, we shall not be undone! We offerr help, as Domi asks. We need to stand -- all taurrs -- as one!
Perform 39
Zeoll goes among the congregation, introducing himself and the Chosen (Winterglade is Brother Goodbarrel), making friends, pressing the flesh. Diplomacy 41.
He tries to gather news, both in general, and about the specifics of the deaths of the Mayor and his daughter. Also if any of the people who think Jacktar is innocent have any evidence. Gather Info 30.
He encourages Glade, Gecktar, and Tiba to continue to minister to the masses while he talks with the trees.
He relates to the Chosen exactly what the trees say: The priests went away before Blackmane took over -- at least a few months ago. They were called away on an important errand, about something called a "Great Migration," that Zeoll does not recognize. They can't say who has been here and who has not. The glade here is warded against other gods. And there's "a small parasitic infestation on the west side of the grove, they would like to have someone take a look at, please."
Zeoll asks Gecktar or Glade if they can cast Cure Disease to get rid of the infestation.
Finally, Zeoll asks all the people here to come to the festivities tomorrow. If the Chosen find evidence that Jacktar is innocent, they hope to tell all the town about it at the festival. Please bring all their friends and everyone who keeps Domi in their hearts.
Zeoll especially warns to avoid the temptations of the Testing Goddess Caeroldra, who prefers beauty to justice, and passion to protection.
Tiba (HP=71/71, AC=23 Assap (HP=36, AC=19) ~Sub Cayzle~ d20+9=28 ; d20+17=28 ; Wednesday September 3rd, 2008 2:39:45 PM
Tiba also joins in the services as a druid and a centaur. She also keeps her eyes open for spies and threats. She tries to overhear anyone plotting or scheming.
Spot 28! Listen 28! Woot!
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) d20+5=12 ; d20-1=0 ; Wednesday September 3rd, 2008 4:56:22 PM
Brahmah places his hand on Glade's shoulder and whispers. "Goodbarrel, keep it up. No centaurs in stocks here. Chances are you will not be harmed." Brahmah thinks it in the best interest of the Chosen and citizens that he takes a subservient role in the group at this point. No minotaurs in authority here, huh, well, that may soon change.
He looks very carefully at the minotaurs in the stocks. (Does he recognize them from anywhere?)
(Pro sailor 12, flat Int check 0... doh! Sneaky hunch one MIGHT be Vargas)
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+9=18 ; Thursday September 4th, 2008 8:55:46 AM
Listening to those around him Theorex tries to spot anyone watching and slipping away or anything else out of place.
Spot 18 Eyes are still searching the area and reporting back with any information in distant corners ect..
A dangerous sermon/DM Buzz d20-2=0 ; Thursday September 4th, 2008 11:44:38 AM Theorex mingles with the crowd. He introduces himself to those around him, but the people watching a bunch of eyes floating around him, puts some on guard, either that or his heritage, perhaps both. Still, he learns that the Matron Meredith and her three daughters have been keeping the place clean and fixing things that are wearing down, with some small help from others. He remains alert.
Winterglade while near the stocks, can see nothing but fresh fruits and vegetables are available and a tomato is easily purchased at three copper a piece. The half orc, not able to avoid the shot just laughs and sends another vulgar signal, specifically aimed at the centaur priest.
While in the temple, his emotions come to surface as despair fills the area, he rushes up to the altar to give a much needed sermon.
Zeoll accompanies the priest with a beautiful hymn and attempts to gather more information. Although he is very charismatic, people seem to excuse themselves or outright ignore him as they strain to hear Brother Goodbarrels sermon. Thoughts of Blackmaine and Jacktar shoved to the back of their conciousness.
Tiba participates where she can, while mainly keeping watch for the suspicious.
Brahmah does not recognize any of those held in the stocks and adopts a subservient roll while at the temple proper.
As Brother Goodbarrel gives his sermon, the group at the altar get wide of eyes and begin crying, as their prayers have been answered. They rise from their knees and almost charge the priest, touching him to confirm he is real. At first, it is through hushed tones and murmurs that word is spread through the temple a priest has arrived, then chaos soon breaks out as a literal stampede happens. People start yelling from the tops of the trees, or as high up in the trees as they are allowed with planked walkways, "WE HAVE A PRIEST!!! DOMI SENT US RELIEF!!! PRAISE DOMI WE AGAIN HAVE GUIDANCE!!! Soon, even through the rain and dark of night, a mass of people start making there way to the temple as their voices are raised in disbelief. Taverns and inns slowly empty out and it is clear, without an intelligence check, there will be more people here than the tree top structures can hold and many people will be endangered as the masses flock to hear a sermon.
It has only been about 15 to 20 minutes since the group has entered the fort.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Thursday September 4th, 2008 4:24:07 PM
With the influx of worshipers, Brahmah not only maintains his subservient role, but also takes up the mantle of protector to Glade, or in this case, Brother Goodbarrel. He still feels somewhat diminished without a badge or some other form of authority. Would I have any right to physically restrain or bludgeon anyone here in defense of a friend? He wonders. The ranger is entirely prepared to throw himself in the way of any harm to Glade.
Whispering, "Well, we wanted an audience with Blackmaine, and for hook or crook, I think we'll likely get it at this rate. Keep it up Brother."
Winterglade Friday September 5th, 2008 5:58:22 AM
During one of the short breaks in preaching the centaur manages to find time to have some quiet words with the rest of the group. "Well, if the main problem of the community is that it is really being swayed to another god, then we have just thrown down the gauntlet. No turning back now, whoever is trying to hold influence over them is not likely to let this go on unchallenged. Keep your eyes open. Also, ask a bit about this new advisor to Blackmaine Goodbarrel's heard mentioned. Could be our gnome."
Well, at mainland they would call what we are doing recon by combat...
The centaur climbs back to the altar and continues his ministrations. He speaks of duty, honor, and virtue of decent, hard-working life. Suddenly a thought strikes him.
"Sisters! Brothers! Fellow Taurs! It might be that it is not by chance that we have come here today! For tomorrow, a great event is to happen in the community! A new leader is to take charge of this wonderful city! Let us help him and his aides start their reign in the best possible way, by putting their faith in the hand of the Brawler! As is as ancient tradition-"
-Well, it is really an ancient tradition of the southwestern tribes, but an ancient tradition is an ancient tradition-
"-As is an ancient tradition, let us gather all together and ask them to take vows before eyes of the Brawler, vows that He himself will hear out, judge, and sanctify! Let them swear to uphold the virtues beloved by this community, the way of the Brawler! Let them swear that they have never taken and never will take an innocent life, that they have never committed and never commit any wrongdoing, and that they seek their position to serve the Fort! Let the power of the Brawler wash over them, so that all can see that there is no evil in their hearts!"
The centaur glances at Gecktar and Zeoll, looking for help. He is not sure if Gecktar will prefer to stay incognito. As for the bard, he has always had better way with words than Winterglade.
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) Friday September 5th, 2008 11:34:29 AM
Mac watches on, and takes Brahmah's lead... at following. He joins in with the assembly, speaking when Goodbarrel's words match those he was taught at home, and generally showing that not all minotaurs are destined for the stocks.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) d20+14=20 ; d20+15=20 ; Friday September 5th, 2008 2:37:41 PM
Brahmah is vigilant. He watches for signs of attack, anyone leaving in haste, or those who may not be happy with Glade's sermon. (Spot 20, Listen 20.... relating to centaurs, both 24, to humans, both 22)
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+9=22 ; Friday September 5th, 2008 8:10:59 PM
"My friends you should appoint some people as ushers after they hear a sermon to move the people on and keep the level of people at a safe point. Make sure that they also search those who come in for weapons as well. Hmm.. This person seems strong to hold back the throng. This person over here as well and this one... this one... this one... give them your blessing and send them out there to hold back the people so that they can safely see and here Domi." Looking for any weapons and sneaky or bad people.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Heroism) Friday September 5th, 2008 11:57:36 PM
Zeoll, not wanting to step on Winterglade's toes, does not sing or preach until the centaur's sermon is over. Then he tries to back him up, reinforcing his message.
An orderly line please/DM Buzz Sunday September 7th, 2008 7:40:11 PM Brahmah maintains his subordinate roll and ponders the legalities in defense of Goodbarrel, anticipating a meeting with Blackmaine
Winterglade spends a couple of turns preaching to the encroaching parishioners. Something occurs during your break, but you can continue with the rest of the post, if you desire.
Mac also stands near Goodbarrel with the intention of being an example as well as protection.
Theorex takes control of the crowd as it is clearly about to get out of hand. He knows, to remove weapons from people would cause trouble, since it is not against the law to carry them and the fort is always on alert for hostile situations every able bodied person must defend against. At first, his direction is rebuffed, but after a quick glance at Brahmah and Mac, they decide Theorex may give them guidance, averting a major catastrophe from all the weight that would soon be in the trees.
Tiba stays alert.
Zeoll realizing, he could no more keep a man 10 days in the desert from a water hole with out force then to get the attention of the populace without magical persuasion, continues to maintain his roll when instruments are needed.
In minutes, the crowd soon fills the alter chamber and with the quick thinking of Theorex an orderly line is soon in place. It travels through the community hall, outside in the rain, down several ramps and out into the main square. If Goodbarrel were to give twenty minute sermons, it would still take him around three to five hours to cycle through all those that are waiting in line.
A chorus is taken up by those that are waiting, "Preach in the square! Preach in the square!" obviously, waiting in the rain is not something over 1000 people want to do. Those on the inside, not wanting to leave, still in disbelief of a priest being present. "Are you going to stay? Please say your going to stay!"
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Monday September 8th, 2008 12:27:06 PM
"WE WILL STAY AS LONG AS THE POPULACE WANTS US!!!" Bellows Brahmah at the top of his lungs. "THE CHOSEN OF DOMI WILL STAY WITH YOU AND SUPPORT YOU IN ALL YOUR ENDEAVORS! WE ARE FRIENDS OF ALL TAURS AND OTHER PEOPLES. WE HAVE MORE THAN JUST TAURS AMONG THE CHOSEN. DOMI RECOGNIZES ALL!! HE IS WITH US ALL!"
Winterglade Monday September 8th, 2008 4:32:06 PM
"-and, if we all pray for it, he will guide us!"
The centaur is more than a bit taken aback by the huge and positive outcry of the populace. Moving to a place that can hold more people does seem like a good idea. He looks questioningly at the rest of the party and discreetly points at the way out. As the group contemplates moving to the square the centaur continues with his preachings, reminding them the basics of the faith.
"Off we go then, into the rain! Do you expect the Brawler to make the clouds go away? Do you? Well DON'T! Brawler will NOT sweep away all obstacles from your path! He will instead grant you fortitude and endurance to overcome them! Brawler will NOT carry you over every raging river you may need to cross in your lives! Instead, he will teach you how to build a bridge! He is not the god of the lazy! He is not the god of the seekers of luxury! He is the god of those who wish to MAKE something out of their lives! Something important! Something grand! So that later, others will look at us and say: YES, despite all the evil in the Wold, these Taurs lived out their lives with DIGNITY and JUSTICE and HOPE! And, despite all their toils and hardships and labours, they managed to live happy, fulfilling lives! And we want to be just like them!"
"Come now, talk is cheap, the Brawler is the god of action. If you know of the homes of any wounded that we might pass close to on our way to the square point them out."
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Heroism) Tuesday September 9th, 2008 7:50:36 AM
Zeoll helps guide the crowd as Winterglade directs.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Tuesday September 9th, 2008 12:08:47 PM
Brahmah briefly moves from Glade and assigns ushers. "Gecktar, you and Flat-top see to the doors and guide folks around. Tiba, you are our eyes and ears, let us know if danger is near or something is amiss. Theorex, keep doing what your doing and if you can go to the roofs. Looks out from above. I'll give you spider climb if you need it." He then sees Heyoo trying to stay out of peoples way. "Heyoo, you stay with Glade, you know, Goodbarrel." He whispers. Then both the minotaur and bear return to Glade's potium, or whereever he is now.
OOC/DM Buzz Tuesday September 9th, 2008 6:16:49 PM
OOC:
What's happening here guys?
I have written to Gilles about Gecktar, I haven't heard from him. Ceil is also AWOL, so I will likely be writing Flat-top out at the end of this week. I know Theorex and Tiba are being subbed, not necessarily daily, but at least I know their covered, so that's cool, but I can't plan encounters around inconsistant posting.
Any idea on what the problem is? Do I need to change something?
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Heroism) Tuesday September 9th, 2008 6:39:48 PM
I thought we were going to go preach in the square. Winterglade said it was a good idea, and I seconded, and Brahmah said he would help usher folks to the new locale.
Don't know what's going on with Ceil and Gilles. But I think we could use a new player. Maybe mention it on the DM Board and our Recruiter (Mike K) can find us someone?
OOC/DM Buzz Tuesday September 9th, 2008 7:07:23 PM
OOC I'm alright with that, I was worried about reaching the out come with so few people present.
Post to come
What's your business again?/DM Buzz Tuesday September 9th, 2008 7:45:29 PM
The group agrees to proceed to the square. Brahmah breaks character and issues orders to secure the area.
The square is in the center of the market district, beside the main gate. During times of peace, the economy thrives as just to the south of the market are the busy docks. Many residents live on the inside of the fort, either in the barracks as militia or homes that have been handed down through generations, built on the ground and in trees. Most of the buildings through the fort are small and could hold perhaps ten or less taurs at one time. Many ramps circulate through the boughs of the mighty Whistal trees that line the north and west side of the fort where other buildings rest securely in the branches.
As the group travels through these ramps toward the firm ground, those lining the walkways touch each of you, wanting to pat you on the shoulder or shake you hands. Toward the bottom, the crowd gathers around the central square where there is a large gazebo to help secure the attraction from the weather, either sun or rain. Standing there is a very cross looking Gate Guard, arms crossed, waiting for you to approch.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+9=13 ; Tuesday September 9th, 2008 9:11:00 PM
OCC: Shelia and I are back.
Actually all the posts have been mine. :)
I just couldn't post every day on vacation.
Theorex helps with the crowd and continues to try to spot any trouble their may be around. He also has others that are of the church search the crowd for weapons and such and have them spot as well.
Spot 13
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) d20+6=10 ; Wednesday September 10th, 2008 9:02:27 AM
The other taur continues to mill amongst the moving crowd. He keeps an eye on the people around him (Spot=10) and otherwise tries to avoid a scene.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Wednesday September 10th, 2008 11:53:13 AM
Brahmah falls back into his lesser role as doding guard and servant after issuing his suggestions.
Winterglade Wednesday September 10th, 2008 12:08:36 PM
"Oh goody, here it comes." - Winterglade whispers to the party members nearby through his teeth. "Maybe time to utilize Zeoll's silver tongue once again? But let's see what he says first." The centaur lets the crowd take him to the guard while keeping a small, innocent smile on his face, which he is actually good at because of a lot of practice. He tries to pass him by with a polite nod and climb onto the podium.
[Buzz, not sure about the others, but as for me I am a bit stumped and not sure what to do next. We know of at least three possible enemies - the church of Caeroldra, Blackmaine and the gnome, but we don't have enough information to move against any of them. Prudence screams to learn more before we act, and this is what we would do in a tabletop game, but putting together even a simplest of plans to spy on somebody in an online game could take weeks of real life. Also, there is the deadline of the swearing in of the new fort manager that cuts our in-game time to react hours, not days. We are rolling with the sermon, which is basically putting ourselves at risk in hopes that the enemies make a mistake and reveal themselves, but that puts us in a bit of a reactive role for a moment.]
DM Buzz: I understand your dilemma. The problem is, you walked away from each opportunity to gather information. At the very neat and tidy estate, the new tower under construction as well as the lady on the beach. Now, you kind of caused a riot after learning this people are still worshipers of Domi and need to know he hasn't abandoned them. No fear, you definitely altered the scene from where I expected it to go, but I find it fun also that different NPC plans also have to change.
Hmm...Three
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Wednesday September 10th, 2008 6:39:15 PM
"I suggest that we ask for those in charge to attend like it was suggested earlier by putting up signs saying that the population wants the new fort leader to swear to Domi."
What's your business again?/DM Buzz d20=17 ; Thursday September 11th, 2008 1:20:21 AM Theorex helps with crowd control. He walks up to a burly centaur in leather armor and a dark black eye patch over his left socket. The man appears to be expectantly waiting for the service to begin when he is asked for his weapon, a large two handed axe harnessed at the side of this hardened sailor. The warrior looks down at Theorex and puts his hand out away from him as if to keep the mage at bay, "Gunninggap will never leave my control so begone!" he then goes back to watching the service, with one hand on his peace bound weapon.
Mac strolls through the crowd, looking for anything suspicious.
Brahmah falls back into the role of body guard.
Winterglade anticipates an angry gate captain as they approach the stage. He attempts to bypass any conversation if possible.
The Gate Captain seems upset as you walk up the steps to the stage and approaches the group. "This wasn't exactly what I thought you meant by entertainers. Now what's going on here?" He asks in a matter of fact tone.
From out in the crowd a voice can be heard, "It's alright Gate Captain, let them continue." The crowd parts as a tall, strong and handsome centaur strolls from the rear ranks and walks up to the front of the stage. "We could all use a good sermon and perhaps, they will bless the inauguration of the new Mayor Malica tomorrow. He's attending his own affair this evening but he would be as happy as myself, if not more, to have you bless the ceremony." He then kneels down in the mud and awaits the sermon as the crowd around you erupts in applause and huzzahs at the words of the Fort Captain. Goozma salutes Blackmaine and leaves the stage toward the rear, issuing orders to the militia to stand down and return to posts and patrols.
After hearing Theorex proclaim the Fort leaders should swear an oath to Domi, Blackmaine will answer. " I do not want to set a precedence for other Fort leaders of the future. That they should swear an oath to Domi, when one willing to swear an oath to Alemi or Pantheon may also be to the benefit of the community, so no, I will not swear an oath to Domi as Fort Captain. I will however swear an oath to Domi as one who follows the ways of honorable combat, as a warrior!"
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Heroism) Thursday September 11th, 2008 7:25:57 AM
Zeoll waits for Winterglade's sermon to end, and as he does so, he turns on his invisibility and maneuvers to get within 40 feet of Blackmaine. When the sermon is over, Zeoll casts his Suggestion spell on Blackmaine.
Zeoll's suggestion is this: "A leaderr should be trruthful with the people. I suggest that you tell us now the trruth about who killed the mayorr and his daughterr, and yourr rrole in it."
The save DC on a Suggestion is a Will DC 22.
[OOC Notes between DM Buzz and Cayzle; Highlight to display spoiler: { Buzz: Two things. One, you will become visible after casting the suggestion. Cayzle: Yup! I just want to be invisible so no one will stop me BEFORE the spell is cast. Buzz: Two, if he saves, he will likely know a spell was cast on him and may declare he was attacked. Cayzle: Yup, no question on that one. If he saves, he will know that he was mentally attacked, likely by magic. Buzz: Your choice though. If there is no modification to your post, it will stand. Cayzle: Yuppers. I'm gambling that he is a non-caster with a crappy Will save, and that making that DC22 roll is a risk well worth taking, since a confession before a crowd of so many Domi-followers will be pretty damning! Let the roll of the die determine the course of events! Note! I slightly rephrased the Suggestion.}
This post edited by Cayzle at 11:40 am Thursday eastern time.
DM Buzz continuing conversation with Cayzle: Highlight to display spoiler: { This should be interesting. This is a big risk, but people, like at the valley, will notice you disappear, since the square is now full, and they will notice you reappear when the spell is cast, so if he saves, you will be suspect. That's quite a gamble. Anyway, where are you in the crowd when you do this? You are near Winterglade on the stage when he begins the sermon, but in the twenty or thirty minutes he speaks, you have free reign to move about. If your at the outside edge of the crowd, you're about 60' from the stage, leaving Blackmaine 55' away from the front or 75' away from the rear.}
Winterglade Thursday September 11th, 2008 8:23:57 AM Well, this certainly starts to turn interesting - thinks the centaur when he realizes Blackmaine himself graced his ceremony.
"Oh, we wouldn't ask them to convert, that would be rude." - replies the centaur with a smile. "A simple oath to abide with the ethic principles of Domi's faith witnessed by the gods would also be a very appropriate start of their term in the office. There don't seem to be any conflicts among the Wold gods as far as the basic code of conduct goes - be honest, just, suffer no evil and never harm innocents."
Passing by the gate guard Winterglade explains apologetically: "We didn't know spiritual healers were so sorely needed. It is really hard to push people back when they ask for help that desperately."
Stepping up to the podium Winterglade gulps. Sure hope there aren't any Windwalkers in the crowd or the bridges leading back home have just been lit up...
He starts speaking once again, trying to keep it brief and to the point because of rain. A 20 to 30 minutes cermon should do it. The centaur is now dog-tired and there is a temptation to just rush to the end and be done with it, but with an effort of will he shakes it off and really tries to give the Taurs his best. He initially intends to gently prepare the populace for possible revelations tomorrow, but after a minute he realizes with surprise that he is giving the good, straight, old-fashioned cermon from the depths of his heart.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) d20+2=15 d20+15=27 Thursday September 11th, 2008 1:20:01 PM
"Perhaps you should make an oath to support the beliefs of the populace and bring back clergy to this place." Suggests Brahmah, forgetting himself. "And rather than warrior, perhaps you should consider LEADER and SUPPORTER. Maybe even help to stop the division of the races in your community by leading by example and instead of by intimidation. As for honor, I question anyone's honor who would slap anyone into bindings for having a brawl to release tension. Perhaps your 'laws' have caused more to be broken than spirit."
(Brahmah is sizing up the centaur... Sense Motive 15, Spot 27... +4 on a centaur... if he is one :))
Dm Buzz: I need to know, is this before or after the sermon?
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Heroism) Thursday September 11th, 2008 3:32:53 PM
Zeoll will stand in the crowd, between Winterglade and Blackmaine, close enough to Blackmaine to cast the spell. He'll tell any nearby Chosen before he goes invisible that he is going to be in the crowd.
Also, since he is invisible, he would prefer not to be in the thick of the crowd, since people will bump into him, but in a thinner part, if possible.
In the end, wherever the DM places Zeoll will be fine.
Truth revealed./DM Buzz d20+14=28 ; d20+8=13 Thursday September 11th, 2008 11:48:03 PM Winterglade gives a good sermon. One he did not at first believe he had in him.
Zeoll sees that the Fort Captain has a front row view of Goodbarrel so must enter the crowd and leave the square to not be noticed going invisible, he can cast from off to the side of the gazebo then puts Blackmaine on the spot with a complex suggestion.
Brahmah begins to accuse the Fort Captain as well, of being dishonourable, questioning his punishment methods.
Blackmaine shakes off the liontaurs magic and after listening to the two, he walks up on the stage and speaks to the crowd. "Ladies and gentlemen of all races. Please allow me to explain what is happening here. The Chosen of Domi were hired by me to seek out and either bring back Jacktar to face charges of dissertion and murder or see to it he could never do either again. They were successful in finding him and they decided to not bring him to justice, which is of course your desire as well as my own." The crowd grows quiet as all eyes now turn toward the various party members that call themselves the Chosen of Domi. "I know this because it was my advisor Herkamer that followed the traitor Guido the harbor master to the lair of Jacktar and his outlaw minions. Herkamer waited several hours, watching the group to see if their actions were in your best interests and when my honourable advisor decided they did not, he attempted to execute the outlaw and his villainous retinue. He stops again pointing to those of you that are near him. "I had hoped they would have a good reason for helping him escape, but after one of them just attacked me with a spell, I decided, they are not good for the citizens of this Fort and should be banished. However, I will buy all the fruit and vegetables in the market, if you would like to express your sentiments about their welcome." He turns around and walks away as if washing his hands while whispering, Nice job, you have them right where you want them.
The crowd looks at each other in confusion as others start making their way to the market stands and it is now Winterglade and the others that are having tomatoes and such thrown at them with yells of Booo! and banishment as others begin to weep and cry out No, this can not be happening. The priest of Domi a traitor.
The large centaur with the large patch over his left eye and two handed axe walks through the crowd. up to Brahmah as everyone who does not participate in the banishment ritual sloths away in sadness. "Is it true? Did you have Jacktar in your grasp and you let him go?"
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Heroism) d20+28=34 ; Friday September 12th, 2008 12:43:38 AM
Zeoll shouts, with a bard's trained voice, "Wait! Good Taurrs! Wait, Blackmaine! Listen to ourr storry beforre you pass judgement!"
[OOC: I'm hoping that Blackmaine will still be within 90 feet when it is Zeoll's turn to act.]
The liontaur bard launches into song, a ballad to tell the following story of the Chosen on this island so far. As he sings, he drums a hypnotic beat, using the music to Fascinate both Blackmaine and the centaur talking with Brahmah. The Will save DC vs the Fascinate is the same as the Perform check, which is a 34.
The Fascinate and the song last for six rounds. In that short time, Zeoll tells this story:
We are friends to centaurs. We destroyed the undead that invaded the Fort. Yes, the Chosen found Jacktar. But before we could isolate and arrest him, a crazed gnome mage appeared and attacked everybody. If the gnome was Blackmaine's henchman, why did he kill innocents and attack us? And why is a Taur using a gnome to kill fellow Taurs? A few of us came very close to death. In the chaos, we lost track of Jacktar, and he slipped away. We don't know where he went, and we came back to the city after that.
But from what we heard, we think that Blackmaine knows more than he is saying, especially about the Mayor.
While he sings, Zeoll backs up slowly so that he is nearer to Brahmah, Tiba, Flat-top, Gecktar, etc. -- to the 90 foot range limit.
Zeoll also hopes that the song will help sway the crowd in favor of the Chosen.
Zeoll weaves a Bardic Music suggestion into his song, affecting Blackmaine, suggesting that he should tell all he knows about how the Mayor died. Bardic Music suggestion save DC is a 20.
[OOC to DM: Highlight to display spoiler: {Holy smokes, he has a +14 Will save? Darn that sucks for me! LOL! Against the Bard Music Suggestion he only fails on a 1-5. But it still seems worth a chance! And that's only if he saves vs the Fascinate, but he needs a nat 20 to save vs that.
If Blackmaine does not fail his fascinate save, but does make his suggestion save, and if with his action (after six rounds), combat does not begin, then is there any reason Zeoll can't start another Fascinate and try again? LOL!}
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Heroism) d20+13=33 ; Friday September 12th, 2008 1:14:56 AM
More OOC to DM: Highlight to display spoiler: { I was in the shower thinking ... fighter type ... evidently a charismatic leader type ... good will saves ... like a paladin ... evil ... an evil paladin ... maybe he's a Blackguard! So can Zeoll have that possible revelation too? Maybe he has heard stories of Blackguards? Here's a Bardic Lore check: a 33! Natural 20! Ha!
Also, if Zeoll thinks he can try another Fascinate after the first one, he'll actually move closer to Blackmaine so that the centaur can't get out of range of the next one too easily. Maybe 35-40 feet away, with people between to prevent a charge attack!
Finally, if I am pushing this course of action too far, just say the word, please! I do sometimes tend to push a good thing!}
DM Buzz to Cayzle Highlight to display spoiler: { Push away my friend, it's your game, just keep in mind for every action is an equal and opposite reaction as has come to pass.}
Winterglade Friday September 12th, 2008 3:57:24 AM
Winterglade, who didn't notice what was happening in the crowd, is taken aback by the events, especially how the crowd immediately shifts from being friendly to downright hostile. For a few seconds he is lost for words, and a well-aimed tomato doesn't help him to gather his thoughts, either.
"Traitors, are we?" - he finally shouts. "Blackmaine is the judge AND jury? He speaks and his words are sacred? THIS IS YOUR LAW? HE CAN CONDEMN WITHOUT TRIAL, SENTENCE WITHOUT PROOF!?"
"SO BE IT!" - shouts the centaur, making his way to the front of the podium in the rain of produce. "YOU BELIEVE THIS PRIEST FALSE!? THERE IS BUT ONE WAY TO DEAL WITH FALSE PRIESTS THAT DESACRATED THE NAME OF BRAWLER WITH LIES! TAKE A ROPE AND FIND A TALL TREE! OR LASH TO DEATH! AND TO THE VERY END YOU SHALL HEAR THIS PRIEST PRAY FOR MERCY ON THIS TOWN, FOR THIS DAY TRUTH HAS BEEN RAPED HERE AND JUSTICE HAS BEEN MURDERED IN COLD BLOOD!" There is fire in the eyes of the centaur as he now speaks not for himself, but for his god who has been just slandered. "YOU HESITATED NOT TO CALL A TRAITOR AND A FALSE PRIEST - DO NOT HESITATE TO DEAL OUT PUNISHMENT! TAKE THIS LIFE! IT IS GIVEN FREELY TO YOU SO YOU MAY KNOW THE PRIEST STOOD BY EVERY WORD HE SAID! TAKE THIS BLOOD! LET IT MIX WITH THE BLOOD OF WOMEN AND CHILDREN MURDERED BY HERKAMER IN THE FOREST! IT IS YOURS! TAKE IT! WITH IT THIS PRIEST SEALS A VOW THAT BLACKMAINE SPEAKS FALSEHOODS STRAIGHT FROM THE DEPTHS OF HIS EVIL HEART!"
The eyes of Winterglade now wander madly over the faces in the crowd. Any who look into them will see that the centaur really means what he says and is ready for death. Two big tears are slowly running down his cheeks.
[Folks, there is a small risk that I might be cut off from a computer during the next week. I should be all right, but I have never been at the conference center I am going to before, so in case there is no internet access there and there is no post from me on Monday please have Winterglade lose consciousness from emotions - M.]
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) Friday September 12th, 2008 8:24:48 AM
As the crowd thins, Mac makes his way to the greater number of Chosen, looking for a cue as to the next step...
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+9=16 ; Friday September 12th, 2008 10:29:41 AM
Waiting for response from crowd. Tell those that I and others recruited to look for and remove weapons from the crowd.
Cast improved invis to be able to move and watch for anyone going for weapons and such.
Spot 16
DM Buzz: Are you reading my posts Jim? :)
I said, you can not remove weapons from the crowd. First off, they are not against the law, secondly, no one will give you their weapons, just as Mac or Brahmah won't give someone their weapons, third, where would you keep and store safely over 500 plus weapons?
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Friday September 12th, 2008 11:50:17 AM
(Buzz, those Motive checks were on Blackmaine. Sorry)
Seeing the axe carrying centaur start to approach. "First off, this is the first time we've met Blackmaine. If you think us liers, someone should cast Zone of Truth AND give us a truth potion. We'll happily accept any test you would like to give us. We did the same to Jacktar and received no false emotions or lies OR EVIL! Will Blackmaine allow the same?" He looks at Blackmaine.
He stares down the centaur with the axe. "Friend centaur, I only wish to expose the truth, as it may stand and I will defend myself and the Chosen of Domi." There is NO false bravado here and he means every word and the centaur should sense it. He doesn't even care that Blackmaine or the crowd hears, in fact, he wants them too.
Heyoo's lip curls and he stands on his rear feet and sends a roar toward the centaur with the axe.
"As for false priests! This taur is far from false and Domi's Chosen will have words with any who say so. What an odd coincidence that the clergy disappears the moment Blackmaine shows up. Scared of him? Nah. Removed from the equation. Jacktar pops up with proof against Blackmaine, Jacktar is suddenly marked for death. Odd, wouldn't you say. You've been blinded, but not because of Domi or the Chosen, or priest or clergy. By this taur who enforces this 'tough love'. Any of you missing loved ones who were banished and never heard from again? Any odd rumors from the outside? Everyone just agree freely to these punishments? Were they voted on fairly by the populace? Who decided these were fair, just and civil?" He shrugs. "If you want, we'll leave."
"Buying fruits and veg to pacify a curious and scared populace is the act of a coward, Friend. Sounds like a bribe."
Flat-top Sunday September 14th, 2008 11:23:28 AM
As Flat-top enters his circle of friends, he yell to Heyou, "Do you like blueberries or rasberries?" The center opens his hands and there were Blueberries in the left hads, then the other hand had rasberries.
Taking one fast look at Heyou running at this poor Center, he tells himself "I guess you want them bouth??"
Fascinating performance/DM Buzz d20+14=27 ; d20+4=10 ; d20=12 ; d20=5 ; d20=11 ; d20=5 ; d20=16 ; d20=11 ; d20=13 ; d20=5 ; d20=7 ; d3=3 ; d3=3 ; d3=3 ; d20=1 ; d20=4 ; d20=8 ; d20=15 ; d20=15 ; d20=5 ; d20=14 ; d20=14 ; d20=5 ; d20=7 ; d20=12 ; d20=17 ; d20=15 ; d20=2 ; d20=6 ; d20=20 ; d20+14=28 ; Sunday September 14th, 2008 5:34:57 PM DM Buzz: I just wanted to clear up some possible things. I'm not sure if you remember it correctly, so I will refresh or if your intentionally saying what is a untruth.
The group had no intention of arresting Jacktar after you met him under the castle. . The gnome mage did not technically attack "everyone". His attacks were very specific in their manner and although there were other casualties, Jacktar was always the target of the spells. Herkamer was expecting Jacktar to run to the roof when he cast the DBF, instead he fell back for healing. . You did not lose track of Jacktar, you know exactly where he went. . No children were killed by Herkamer. . Technically, everything Jacktaur said today is correct. Although he did not meet with the entire group, it was his understanding that Zeoll was your spokesperson. . The clergy or "Corral" left long before Blackmaine arrived, and even then, Blackmaine has been here awhile before the deaths of the mayor and his daughter as well as Hollyhocks coming up missing. . Jacktar never had proof against Blackmaine all evidence came up missing before he deserted. In fact, he swears he was run out of town, chased through the same canals you all went through, by ten minotaurs in full plate mail. .
Zeoll uses his bardic power to capture the crowds attention. He forces Blackmaine to turn around and cross his arms, with a still satisfied smile upon his handsome face. The one eyed centaur addressing Brahmah also begins to listen. It is for the small majority of the crowd that was able to save that raises enough ruckus and distraction with thrown produce. Some missiles land on their mark hitting the heros with lucky shots, while others fly wide and hit bystanders nearby, trying to listen to the liontaur.
From the SRD: Each creature to be fascinated must be within 90 feet, able to see and hear the bard, and able to pay attention to him. The bard must also be able to see the creature. The distraction of a nearby combat or other dangers prevents the ability from working.
Winterglade barges into Zeolls now futile attempts at swaying the crowd by demanding that the mob should take his life and end it all. Declaring they are in the right with deep emotion.
Mac moves closer to his new friends waiting for something to be done.
Theorex receives rejection from the worshipers on disarming the crowd and with the argument, recedes back into the crowd. A spell of invisibility is cast allowing full actions while in use.
Brahmah chooses to not pull his weapon as the centaur approaches, and after his trance is broken by a stray melon to the side of his head, he comes back to reality enough to hear the minotaurs words. Brahmah only Highlight to display spoiler: { On your sense motive check, you can tell, it seems Blackmaine feels he has the upper hand on the group. He feels he anticipated the groups actions and will now use them against you. You will need to back up and start digging around for proof against him or abandon the fort to his will.}
Flat-top picks up some nearby fruit and feeds Heyoo in the midst of the giant food fight in place.
The crowd grows hostile at the many accusations thrown at Blackmaine further fuels the flames of angry people. Those that are not running from the mess is participating as hundreds of people surround the gazebo, the only clear path leading to the gate with a waiting Goozma and ten other burly guardsmen beside him. His expression one of frustration at the situation, but he does not seem to be forcing the group to leave yet.
The one eyed centaur looks at Brahmah with disgust on his face and says, "Your kind will never change, siding against the fort and our kind. Our conflict will never be over it seems." He then spits on the ground near his feet as he walks away without looking back.
From the open gate comes in a sparkling figure of true beauty. The liontaur lady you saw playing in the surf has finally come in from her pastime. She is now wearing a long blue shawl covering her voluptuous form, concealing much more then was visible as the group approached. She can see what is happening and appears to be talking with the Gate Captain in query.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+9=24 ; Sunday September 14th, 2008 8:55:13 PM
keeping watchful. Watching the lady and any other important looking people.
Spot 24
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Sunday September 14th, 2008 8:56:49 PM
Occ;
Sadly my wife has asked to be removed from the game for a while so she can get into taking her classes at night and working a 40 hour job. So if someone would like to NPC her for the next month or so that would be fine.
OOC/DM Buzz Monday September 15th, 2008 10:41:47 AM
OOC:
Jim, She needs to post this in the LnB to try and find her a substitute or you can post the sub request for her if you have the time.
Thank you.
ACDM Cayzle OOC to Theo, Buzz, and Tiba Monday September 15th, 2008 11:18:07 AM
If a player has to be absent for more than a month, we should really give the PC an honorable exit and then return later. For under a month, a sub is okay. But there's nothing wrong with going on a break for a while.
OOC/DM Buzz Monday September 15th, 2008 11:23:37 AM
Very well, I have concerns about the group missing another member though.
So, to offset the problem of irregular posting and absences, I'm going to lower the levels of any enemy NPC's that need to be dealt with. This also means their treasure will be adjusted as well.
By doing this, I also have to amend some of the actions that have been put in place as for the valley and for what is to come.
Let's just say, anything that does not mesh was a successful UMD skill.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Monday September 15th, 2008 11:40:01 AM
Brahmah looks at the centaur, not at all willing to confront the ignorrant taur.
"At some point honor and truth will prevail over fear and corruption. Chosen, we are not needed or wanted here. It is clear this entire fort is filled with brainwashed taurs and it saddens me to say it. I fear Blackmaine is the better taur. The best leader for these folks. Before things erupt and taurs get hurt, we shall have to part this nice fort and equally nice, yet misguided, Children and People of Domi."
Brahmah walks off the potium, past Blackmaine, the guards and off past the group.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Heroism) d20+25=37 ; Monday September 15th, 2008 5:14:22 PM [OOC to Buzz regarding what we know and what we don't know ... LOL! Is this players not being exactly clear on the details, or PCs? Or both? I honestly thought we did not know where Jacktar went! You mean we DO? Where is he? Maybe Zeoll is misinformed, but he did not deliberately lie.]
[Also, you posted "Technically, everything Jacktaur said today is correct." You mean that Blackmaine said, right? The same is true for Zeoll. Technically. LOL!]
Zeoll shrugs. You take your best shot, and if that's not enough, you regroup and try again later. If at first, and all that. He wipes a tomato off his armor and decides things are getting too rough for his magics to work.
He calls out to Blackmaine and the crowd, "Let Domi bless the people of this town, and let all those who hold Domi in theirr hearrts stay prroud and vigilant! See you all at the festivities tomorrrow!"
Zeoll leaves with Brahmah. He is not sure where the minotaur is going, but he knows when his Captain needs his support. "Come on, friends," he says to the Chosen, especially Flat-top, who is standing right next to him.
As I understand it, Following Brahmah means walking by the pretty liontaur, right? Not thinking any good will come of it, but nonetheless grasping at straws, Zeoll stops by her and says, in wemic, "Pardon me, miss, but may I invite you to tea and a chat, at your convenience? Or as soon as possible," he adds wryly, with a tail movement that might suggest mild embarrassment to another wemic, "considering that it seems we are about to be run out of this town any minute now."
Diplomacy check - 37
By the way, Buzz, how long has it been since we got to town?
DM Buzz: Jacktar and Larmane entered an old abondoned mine system that was at the North end of the valley. They said they would collapse the entrance behind them. Larmane said he could reopen the mines when it was time.
Yes, I meant Blackmaine, not Jacktar.
What Zeoll said that is not correct is this. "In the chaos, we lost track of Jacktar, and he slipped away. We don't know where he went, ......."
You have been in the fort now for about an hour. The time is around 7PM
ooc/DM Buzz Monday September 15th, 2008 6:11:43 PM
Forgetting some details that happened almost a month ago is totally understandable. Keep in mind, it's barely been 24 hours game time since you met with Jacktar beneath his castle.
I'm more then happy to refresh your memories on these matters and will rarely use things forgotten against you unless I'm sure that player knew what they were doing.
These are just imporatant points to recall if someone actually did take you up on a Zone of Truth spell or other magical means.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Sneaky Heroism) Monday September 15th, 2008 7:50:45 PM
My sneaky potion is just wearing off, but the Heroism still has 20 minutes to go.
Thanks for the clarifications, Buzz!
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Monday September 15th, 2008 9:01:39 PM
Following the others lead from a distance.
Theorex thinking to himself "Well I wanted this to be interesting and be with a group of people that are on the good path putting both heart and thought before deed. It seems we are doing well on that front, but sadly I know almost nothing about this history that is going back and forth and therefore cannot come to any significant conclusion to how I should procede. We also don't have the time for the group to debrief me. Ah well I shall trust my got and my thoughts to guide me through these trouble times."
Food farewell/DM Buzz d20+5=18 ; d20+8=20 ; Tuesday September 16th, 2008 2:05:04 AM
The group continues to receive boos and hisses as they are escorted to the gate by armed citizens bearing fruit. It seems all the criminals in stocks seem to enjoy the show, except one, the minotaur on the far right.
As the group gets closer to the gate, the guards are prepared for any problems and Goozma continues to look disappointed, as the female liontaur turns toward the group. Her face the image of a celestial creature. Highlight to display spoiler: { Picture Heather Locklear, T.J. Hooker years} and a body with mountains and valleys a pathfinder could get lost in.
She bats her long dark lashes as Zeoll invites her to tea. She responds with a beautiful sincere smile, "Well, I'm not sure I should. It seems you're the type of boys and girls my daddy told me to avoid." she flirtatiously remarks. Zeoll only Sense Motive DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Meet me down the beach a ways. }
Those that make Sense Motive DC 18 Highlight to display spoiler: { She attempted to send Zeoll a secret message.}
Those that make Sense Motive DC 23 Highlight to display spoiler: { You can read Zeoll's spoiler text.}
For the first time since you have seen Blackmaine, he does not look happy at you conversing with the female liontaur as she walks by you all with a slight wave and then does not look back as she walks through the crowd.
Goozma points to the gates, "No one has to get hurt here today, just be off with you and don't come back unless you can prove what you said." he looks each of you in the eye as you exit. Sense Motive DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { If you find evidence against Blackmaine, Jacktar or anyone else, you need to bring it to Gate Captain Goozma first.}
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) d20+6=14 ; d20+6=14 ; Tuesday September 16th, 2008 6:18:03 AM
OOC: General Sense Motive Check (we were asked for several): 14 (actually, worse than that...)
Pausing, Mac tries to get a better look at the one minotaur who isn't in the spirit of things. Spot(?) Check = 14
The dark minotaur plans to see all of the rest of the Chosen out of the fort city, and an opportunity to exchange a few words with Goozma provides him with that chance. Try to keep his voice quieter he says, "I'll hold you to your offer of a drink on my next visit Gate Captain. Nobody gets hurt here today. But when we are gone, you have an unpleasant duty to uphold, because in front of this large gathering we witnessed this Blackmaine spit on the ground and walk away - like the laws don't apply to him. When we return, and all this is sorted, please tell me how his day in the stocks will by then have gone."
And with that (barring any stragglers) he steps through... into the continuing storm, I guess.
DM Buzz: Blackmaine did NOT spit on the ground. That was the one eyed centaur with the large two handed axe that confronted Brahmah
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Heroism) d20+16=33 ; d20+16=26 ; d20+16=28 ; d20+22=30 ; d20+22=42 ; Tuesday September 16th, 2008 12:26:17 PM
Sense Motive Checks: 33, 26, 28! all passed!
Zeoll pretends to scowl in disapproval at the beautiful wemic, but really he is agreeing with her idea of meeting later on the beach. The bard notes Blackmaine's reaction and wonders.
Bluff checks: 30, 42 (a nat 20).
Later, in private, Zeoll tells the Chosen that he thinks Captain Goozma wants to hear any evidence before we confront Blackmaine. Zeoll thinks that might even be a good idea.
Zeoll tells Winterglade, "I'm glad no one took you up on yourr invitation to kill you, my frriend!"
The liontaur tells his friends about the meeting on the beach, and asks everyone to please come.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Tuesday September 16th, 2008 5:10:08 PM
Upon leaving and seeing Goozma, Brahmah says, whispering, "Just watch yourself friend. We'll be nearby."
As soon the group is virtually out of sight, Brahmah turns to Zeoll and is addressing the group as a whole, "You all know me well enough to know THIS is NOT over by a longshot. Before we're done here, Blackmaine will be gone and the citizens will have clergy." He smirks. "I'm surprised you looked so confused Z. What, did you think I was ACTUALLY giving up? No way! I've learned my lesson. Sail away from the rocks. If it looks smooth, the undertow with suck you in. That fort has the same issue. Shore looks inviting, even tempting, but its treacherous waters." He winks at Zeoll. "Besides, your girl friend would never forgive me." He laughs.
"We're not leaving. We're pitching camp somewhere nearby so that anyone from the fort can join us if they like. We may even make it easy to find us. I know, I know, ambushes, murdering us in our sleep. Thats a possibility, but if that happens now, the people will know some of what we said is true. They will begin to work against Blackmaine... and so on. Anyway, we won't be killed.
By Domi, I almost smell Mauroth again, don't you?!"
Thining storm/DM Buzz d20+5=18 ; Tuesday September 16th, 2008 8:37:05 PM Mac is unable to discern any subtleties with the exit of the Chosen. He speaks to Goozma mentioning that a centaur spit on the ground toward Brahmah, he responds "I saw it also and he'll be dealt with in due time." The rain gently falls on his face as he looks toward the open water. The storm now easing, the wind almost nonexistent.
Zeoll attempts to send his own secret message, but the woman does not look back to see it, perhaps confident you will be there. Once outside the fort he confides in his friends what just happened and is thankful "Goodbarrel" is still among the living.
Brahmah says some words to the Gate Captain which scowls at what might perhaps be a threat, but then he raises his right eyebrow at perhaps other options to the minotaurs words. He asks the group if they believed his absurd notion of surrender and has in his large nostrils a stench from times past
The group walks down the cobblestone walkway as far as it will go, and continues on to the road they were once before. The unfinished tower still standing away from the road a ways on a fenced property. The light in the barn on the other side of the one story house is now out.
Walking toward the beach brings a person to a clear and visible area but walking north a quarter mile brings someone near some bluffs some ten or fifteen feet above the water level. On this bluff is the light house which is guardian of the ships that travel through the area at night. It's cyclops like eye continually watching the skerries below, from right to left.
The group really wouldn't know how long she will be, if she hasn't changed her mind. What would the group like to do?
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) (Heroism) d20+12=25 ; Wednesday September 17th, 2008 6:35:28 AM
[OOC: What time of day is it? We walked a lot, stopped at Malica's party, and spent about an hour in the Fort, right?]
Zeoll guides the party down to the beach. There, he asks Brahmah to look for any signs the female wemic may have left in the sand to show where she was dancing. If the trained ranger finds anything, maybe it will be a clue. [Buzz, was it near here that she was dancing, or am I remembering things wrong?]
Zeoll looks for animals nearby, he casts Speak With Animals. He asks any creatures he finds if they have seen anything unusual around here nearby. Anyone moving under the cover of the storm? How about that beautiful wemic? Any undead? Wild Empathy, if needed: 25.
While the Speak with Animals is still up, Zeoll wades into the surf and casts Summon Nature's Ally I to call a porpoise. He asks the sea mammal to swim up and down the shore and report back anything unusual. It has 8 rounds to swim and come back.
[OOC: Buzz, I'm just doing whatever I can think of to get more info. Maybe something will click.]
Update on Spells 'n' Stuff Used Today
Druid Spells (underlined = used) Level 0: Guidance x2, Det Magic, Det Magic, Taur's Try Level 1: Speak with Animals, Speak with Animals x3 Level 2: Hold Animal, Charm Anim x3 Level 3: Speak with Plants x2, Speak with Plants
Bard Spells 0 of 3 Level 0 spells used 0 of 5 Level 1 spells used 3 of 4 Level 2 spells used
Bard Music: 3 of 6 used today Metamagic Rod: 1 of 3 used Wand of Speak with Animals: 1 of 50 used Goodberries from Wreath: 0 of 15 used Wind Fan: 0 used Elixers of Sneakiness: 1 of 6 used
Resources and spells used today: Charge of Speak with Animals wand - Aug 10 Bard Music - Aug 10 Heroism and Detect Magic - Aug 13 Bard Music - Aug 14 Extended Heroism - Aug 22 Speak with Plants x2 - Sept 2 Suggestion - Sept 11 Bard Music - Sept 12 Speak with Animals x2 - Sept 17
Correction on Zeoll's current Heroism spell: He used a charge of metamagic to extend it (Aug 22), so it has another 100 minutes left as of today's post, not 20 minutes left.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+9=15 ; Wednesday September 17th, 2008 10:53:59 AM
Theorex moves through the crowd trying to spot anything as he leaves still unseen being invis.
Spot 15
After leaving the place Theorex says to the group while being invis. in a way that hopefully doesn't scare them. "Its me Theorex I think we should all go to sleep now while it is light so that we can recharge and not get jumped while we sleep."
Occ: I will be taking over for my wife tomorrow and then on if you guys like.
JIm
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) d20+22=30 ; d20+4=18 ; d20+4=7 ; Wednesday September 17th, 2008 4:00:31 PM
Brahmah looks for the signs Zeoll asked about. (Survival 30 for tracks, 34 vs centaur-should there be signs of a struggle or such, two search checks 18 & 7)
Rendevous astray/DM Buzz Wednesday September 17th, 2008 7:06:50 PM Zeoll tests the waters after he attempts to communicate with any animals in the area. Likely most have hunkered down in various lairs until the rain has subsidded. A porpoise appears by jetting five feet into the saturated air and causing a large splash toward the multi-classed Seer. Highlight to display spoiler: {"Heythere Howyoudoing Nothingheretoattack WhatdoyouwantIwanttogetbacktomyfriends" it spills out it's thoughts to you. "Ohokberightback" He takes off and comes back near the end of the spell, "Stormstirredupschools Lotstoeat Heavyundertowfunfun Nexttimeyoucallletsgoswimming} Yes, you are near where you saw her earlier.
Theorex wants to get some rest after this somewhat short day. Jim, I don't have a problem with you taking over Tiba, if your able to post for both of them daily. If it's still alright with you, Cayzle can confirm it's alright and we can move on.
Brahmah goes down toward the beach with Zeoll and while the wemic talks with the cheetah of the sea. Brahmah Highlight to display spoiler: { You can see faint traces of her paw prints somewhat smaller then Zeoll, in the sand that continually gets beaten by the incoming waves.}
The porpoise comes and goes and Zeoll receives little satisfaction from his efforts, but soon, it is easy to brighten up as the female in a dark red full body cloak is seen exiting the gate with hood up. Her walk just as seductive as her eyes as she places one paw in front of another as if she was some runway model, which doesn't seem unreasonable to some of you.
Instead of walking to meet you though, she walks away from you, down the road eastward to some unknown location. Perhaps she wants to show you something or maybe she feels that all of you should not be seen together so near the fort or she could be leading you into a trap. Who can say? The time is now around 7:30 PM
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Wednesday September 17th, 2008 8:49:52 PM
"I would suggest staying here and sleeping. She will come back after dark."
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) Wednesday September 17th, 2008 10:44:13 PM
"I wish I had the gift for this. Has she gone another direction to avoid obviously following us, or because she thinks we can find her." says the minotaur as he absent-mindedly scratches the hair on his chin.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Thursday September 18th, 2008 4:29:28 PM
Where do the paw prints go? How far? Direction. He quickly goes in the direction of where they are headed. If they end abruptly, he turns and goes in the direction they came from.
Night falls like rain/DM Buzz Thursday September 18th, 2008 9:29:35 PM Theorex stresses the option of sleep.
Mac has no idea what to do, follow or wait?
Brahamh can see tracks coming from the fort that are less recent then tracks leading to the fort. They appear to be from the same creature that was prancing in the surf.
The figure continues to walk away from the group and the fort. Along the road until the dark of night conceals her features from your vision.
The guards along the wall of the fort still apparent but them too are fading from view with the night.
7:40 PM
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Friday September 19th, 2008 7:00:36 AM
Zeoll agrees with Theorex. It has been a long day. Let's make camp and recover through the night. Maybe our new friend will stop by later.
Zeoll thinks the group should not camp right at the water's edge ... what if more undead came by? He wishes he had his crocodile animal friend here now -- he would make a good guard here near the water. Alas, Zeoll left him at the ship.
Zeoll tells his friends that he will look for clues in his dreams. Zeoll hopes to find out how they can get real evidence of Blackmaine's guilt. So please do not wake Zeoll. Even if the undead rise, let Glade and Gecktar turn them before waking the liontaur. "That goes double for Miss Prretty! I don't need the likes of herr disturrbing my drreams, eitherr!" If she comes back when Zeoll is sleeping, she can wait for morning.
Before retiring, Zeoll passes out 15 goodberries. "Eat these," he says to his friends. "They will nourrish you." He also creates water to drink.
As he settles in to sleep, Zeoll says a few prayers and concentrates on Blackmaine, and on uncovering his guilt, and on getting proof of his crimes.
DM Buzz: If your not sleeping on the beach, I need to know where you are sleeping. Thank you.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) d20+20=29 ; Friday September 19th, 2008 3:47:21 PM
Brahmah follows the tracks away from the fort into the darkness, swords drawn. Heyoo follows closely, but strays to a fish corpse eventually.
The ranger looks around and is vigilant of his surroundings. (Survival 29, +4 vs centaurs and humans, +2 vs magical beasts)
Brahmah would prefer to stay somewhere they were not easily snuck upon. Someplace with only one or two entry points. The beach does not meet these requirements... unless a Chosen has a reason for it.
On through the night?/DM Buzz Saturday September 20th, 2008 1:05:01 PM Zeoll agrees with Theorex about rest but also realizes, the group rested until noon today and have only been on the road for six hours before reaching the fort. He passes out nourishment to the group.
Cayzle, under Seer it says this. This power is comparable to a Divination spell as well as this It is reasonable to limit the use of these abilities to once per adventure If not for this under Divination. As with Augury, multiple divinations about the same topic by the same caster use the same dice result as the first divination spell and yield the same answer each time. I would allow it
Brahmah pulls his weapon in anticipation of attack as he searches the area. He too is uncomfortable with the beach as a camp site.
So the group, in a quandary as to a secure place to sleep, continue to stand on the beach head as the rain gently falls from above.
Gecktar, Tiba, and Flat-top decide that they should split away from the main group, in an attempt to find clues. These three state they will search the sewers and attempt to find something there that may help them. Maybe it's the new advisor with the powerful magic that created the constructs that had to be dealt with when last you were in them.
DM Hint: If you guys could find damaging evidence about Blackmaine before the ceremony tomorrow, the group would have a distinct advantage over him and his "advisor", but once a fort manager is in place, his position will be secure because then there will be joint rulers involved. One of which (Malica) has strong ties to the community. So technically, you have 14-16 hours to find what you need, do you want to sleep away the time?
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Sunday September 21st, 2008 11:14:51 PM
"I have a strong feeling that I and someone else should sneak into somewhere in the city and get evidence that we need>"
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Monday September 22nd, 2008 11:11:29 AM
"I'm really to concerned to sleep. Lets go find someone to convince. Zeoll, is your female coming or should we leave."
Winterglade Monday September 22nd, 2008 3:14:01 PM
Winterglade, who allowed himself to be led away from town in stupor, finally comes to his senses once again. He sighs, wipes his face, retrieves an apple that stuck to the side of his shield and bites on it.
"Well, that was intensive."
"Amazing what kind of influence he has over the people. Turning them on us just like that, from exalted to downright hostile... Than he says with one breath that Jacktar was to face charges and that his assistant tried to execute him before he was found guilty - and nobody notices... What kind of brainwashed Taurs live in this place? Were there not so many of them one would suspect mind magic. Still, an interesting preaching experience for Winter- Goodbarrel."
"Let us follow that cat woman. She does not look like the kind who would wait for you all night to show up, and, frankly, she is our only lead right now."
[Sorry for a missed week. Turned out computers were sparse at the place I stayed at.]
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Monday September 22nd, 2008 4:45:24 PM
Zeoll agrees with Winterglade. Let's follow the liontaur.
OOC: Good ruling on the Dream Use, Buzz. I agree.
Zeoll also notes that he thinks the undead who attacked the harbor were part of Blackmaine's plan. If it hadn't been for us, the Harbormaster would have died earlier, and he was one of the few who still supported Jacktar. So one possibility is to go look under water for a clue as to where those things came from. Probably a sewer. Maybe there's a lair in the sewers that can give a clue. Those golems down there that we fought were not doing maintainence.
Also, there is the gnome that Zeoll sprung from prison first thing we got to town. I bet he's still around. Maybe he can give us a clue to what's going on.
But first, we look for the woman.
A single candle/DM Buzz Monday September 22nd, 2008 8:28:37 PM Theorex believes evidence might be in the fort and volunteers his skills to sneak in with another.
Brahmah Does not feel like sleeping and wants to continue the work of heros.
Winterglade recovers from the shock of what happened recently. How a mob could turn hostile with a few words from someone more then profound. He is sure to not let fruit go to waste as he wants to follow the lady wemic.
Zeoll agrees with the priest of Domi and concludes that undead are not indeginous to the region, therefore must have a creator near. He too wants to find the female wemic.
So the group heads up the beach and travel east down the road they once came (the DM assumes). The fort no longer visible against the back drop of a cloudy night without stars or moon.
Tracks of her passage easily seen in the mud assuring at least one in the party being able to follow them. They travel a quarter mile when the turn north on one of many abandoned properties. A small candle flame is in the bottom window, seen to have a slight flicker.
Please state any actions you would do before you approach the house.
The estate is a two story building with two windows on each floor, opposite the entry. On the second floor is a balcony that opens out above the foyer of the entrance. Numerous plants grow untended as nature takes it's course over the structure.
It is clear from 30' the double wooden door of the entrance is of fine wood with engravings of rich design. The right hand door slightly open.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Monday September 22nd, 2008 10:32:02 PM
Waiting for the others to make a move being invisiable and all it would be hard to follow his movements.
Winterglade Tuesday September 23rd, 2008 10:09:31 AM
Winterglade considers what powers he has left and which of them he is willing to expend. "Goodbarrel can scan for evil once today, maybe it will be useful to do so now. But, before we move in, let us take a look around the place and make sure we are not walking into a trap, yes?"
"Actually" - he adds, patting his heavy armor - "just one of us should go and take a look. Goodbarrel can be heard clonking when he moves about from half a mile away."
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Tuesday September 23rd, 2008 11:44:08 AM
Brahmah racks his mind at what and who they should find that might help.
[15:59:30 left] (Sorry, had to do the 24 thing... tick tock ;))
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+10=21 ; Tuesday September 23rd, 2008 1:57:57 PM
Zeoll thinks that if this woman is a danger, it is not the kind that comes from a sword in the dark or a mugging from surprise, but rather from the seduction of corruption and crimes of passion.
But Glade has a good point. "I'll detect evil just before I enterr," he tells his friends. He activates his tattoo (detect evil) and walks up. Just outside, he pauses to concentrate on the divination.
He looks at the engravings (Bard Lore 21).
He ponders speaking with the plants. But he decides not to delay.
Zeoll knocks and enters.
Wet entrance/DM Buzz Tuesday September 23rd, 2008 7:48:34 PM
The group warily advance toward the abandoned structure, one of many upon the road.
Theorex believing he can not be seen, soon realizes, the foot prints in the wet muddy road is one indication of a person, as well as rain splattering off the head and shoulders of his medium size. His Prying Eyes spell seem to follow the transparent entity.
Winterglade thinks a sacrifice of one a wise idea and in a sense, volunteers.
Brahmah senses the sands falling through the narrow hole of a time glass, knowing that success is crucial. I liked it, very nice.
Zeoll casts a divination spell, in search of evil. He concentrates long enough to know, unless deliberate precautions against such a spell are in place, the lower floor of the house is without evil. Four minutes later, Zeoll Highlight to display spoiler: { You admire the intricate designs in the door way and can determine, they are ancient knot work of the centaur race, embellished on the fine oak wood of the door frame. These same designs have been found on pictographs of their past in caves and tunnels that run under the island, when these peoples were still nomadic.} He does not wait for Goodbarrel to go first.
The house is of fine quality, with large rooms now empty. The entry way has an arched ceiling of large thick beams, shaped in the form of a dome. Above, you, it can be seen, the second floor balcony encircling the dome. Off to the right, a large empty dining room. The wench for the chandler and the pulley in the ceiling all that remain. A door leading to the culinary section of the estate, open on the other side of the room. Off to the left, a cold fire place sits almost alone in the dimly lighted room. The candle flickers anxiously as the opening of the door changes the current in the room. Directly ahead and on the right wall is a coat rack and perhaps 30' in on the other side of the rack are stairs leading to the second floor balcony. Looking to the left of the stairs a corridor goes back to more dark rooms. When the party enters, you hear a spell cast, "Illuminate" and a light source can be seen coming from a doorway deeper in the house. "Please extinguish the candle and come forth where we may chat." is heard from that same room. The voice almost music. Kind and sweet.
The sound of boots, and hooves on wood floors and the dripping of water from the groups bodies follow a similar moist trail to a back room, it's use before now, unknown. From the doorway you see before you a 20' X 40' room and across it, the figure of the lady you have seen twice before now. Her long blonde hair flows down her cloaked back. She is turned toward the wall, her face unseen as you enter, she sheepishly opens the conversation. "How may I help you?"
Winterglade Wednesday September 24th, 2008 6:12:41 AM
Winterglade tags along, painfully aware that he is leaving a trail of mud and water on the floor. He blows out the candle when asked to and absent-mindedly picks up a small gob of wax that he starts to twiddle in his fingers in a nervous way.
"We are a group known as the Chosen of Domi." - says the centaur as an introduction. "We were passing through, but got involved in the current problems of Fort Stag. From what we learned the populace is not aware that they are standing at the top of a cliff and are preparing to make a big step forward tomorrow."
"There have been many murders recently, some of which we even witnessed. What we care for the most is that the guilty of the crimes that have been committed are brought to justice and the Fort is in hands of somebody who will really care for its people."
"What we really could use" - the cleric says, throwing away the drop of wax - "is truth. You seem to wield power, so one can hope you might have had a bit more insight into what happened here before our arrival than a common taur did. If there is any information you could share with us that could help us in our work it would be most appreciated. Starting, maybe, with as much as you are willing to tell us about who you are?"
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+9=19 ; Wednesday September 24th, 2008 12:17:49 PM
Listening. Spot 19
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Wednesday September 24th, 2008 8:22:51 PM
The ranger, unsure and vigilant, remains at the rear of the party keeping watch.
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) d20+6=22 ; Wednesday September 24th, 2008 10:50:44 PM
With Brahmah holding the tail, Mac moves forward with Goodbarrel, and also keeps an eye open. Spot Check: 22
The truth be told/DM Buzz Thursday September 25th, 2008 12:30:48 AM
Taking up various positions in the house, the group moves forward out of the rain, Winterglade almost feels guilty at the mess left behind. After extinguishing the small dancing flame, he walks forward introducing the group. He relates a violent past the group was intimately involved in, then asks some questions.
Theorex stays toward the rear with Brahmah near the still open front door. Please relocate yourself to a different area of the house if you desire.
Brahmah stands near the intersection of the front rooms, able to keep an eye on the stairs and balcony from that position.
Mac stays near Brahmah and Theorex
She remains with her back to those that can see her, "I must apologize, but I must be very forward when I say, I can tell you nothing of myself at this time, for reasons that you may understand later, but not now. I can answer truthfully all your questions though and I can elaborate further, once on any subject" She turns to face you and her image is one of near perfection. It is odd really, that a person could be so attractive. "As to your first question about truth, I can tell you Blackmaine and Herkamer are both part of a sect named "Hands of "Love". They hold special sway over those that are friendly with them."
All note, there are no descriptions for these abilities listed under Caeroldra. Jerry gave me permission to install some. Please consider these only temporary until approved and this is a game test for them. Feedback through email is appreciated.
The gorgeous wemic rests by lying on the wood floor, her paws crossed over each other, back legs crouched under her. Her long slender arms rest gently in front of her, fingers entwined. Her words almost a song. She has a way with words that this unworthy writer could only vaguely project, so I will be direct to avoid confusion. "From what I understand, they each have the supernatural ability called Contagious Charisma. By using twice their charisma modifier, they can find a "True Friend". These true friends are completely loyal to the Hand of Love in so far as their life is not in danger. This is a voluntary action on the part of the True Friend and only those that would normally like the Hand of Love are eligible. Furthermore, each True Friend can brag about their benefactor and gather additional friends equal to twice the Hand of Loves charisma modifier, each. If for any reason the Hand of Love does something against the morals of his True Friends in their presence, he will immediately lose that True Friend as well as the friends that person brought into the circle."
"I know they have more abilities, but I have yet to discover them." She blinks her long dark lashes at the group, "What else would you like to know?"
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+23=40 ; Thursday September 25th, 2008 12:32:07 AM
Winterglade speaks for Zeoll, but the liontaur has a few words to add.
"Blackmaine, I think, has been planning this forr a long time. He is cold and calculating. I think that where his hearrt was, now grrows only ice and dead wood. I think that underr his rrule, judging from the so-called laws he has already set up, this place will become a deadly and cold."
"We hope that you can help us avoid that. We hope you can give us the evidence of Blackmaine's cold-blooded murders, that we need to stop his rise to powerr." The emotion and passion in Zeoll's voice is clear.
Diplomacy 40.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Thursday September 25th, 2008 12:32:32 AM
Darn! Missed by two minutes!
Winterglade Thursday September 25th, 2008 8:47:09 AM
"Oh." - The centaur starts thinking, scratching his head where his mane used to be before Herkamer burned it off. "Do you think it is some kind of mind control? Or does this effect merely enhance their own people's skills? Goodbarrel wonders if a Protection from Evil would break the charm, hmm."
"We were wondering if there were more sinister forces at play here. We encountered undead and flesh golems under the city and pondered if there were their doing, also. Would you have any knowledge about that?"
The centaur continues to list the things that have been puzzilng him. There are rethorical questions really, but after each one he waits to see if the stranger wishes to offer some of her own thoughts.
"They must have removed Belwinks for obvious reasons, but why his heart was removed from his body? Would they use it in some kind of ritual, or was it just to prevent bringing him back? "
"And where did Hollyhocks go?"
"Would Malica be in league with them, or merely trying to jump on the wagon to power?"
The centaur stomps his hoof absent-mindedly. "Herkamer is a constant danger. For all we know he might be standing now next to us, listening to everything we say. A complicated thing, and we have but one night to sort it out."
"Blackmaine seems to be too smart and level-headed to be provoked into losing control over the crowd by some impulsive act. He also proved earlier today that he is very good at thinking on his toes."
"They would be stupid not to cover their tracks well. It is doubtful if we can find anything but traces of evidence against them."
"And killing them like assassins is probably the worst thing we could do. We might remove them, but the town could lose its faith in Brawler for gods know how long."
"Even if we rasied Belwinks and brought him to testify against them, they would just say it is not really him and the crowd would listen."
"One thing is for sure. If we want to end it in a just and lawful way, we need to find a way to wrest the control over the crowd away from them. Maybe let's concentrate on this for a moment. Putting Blackmaine in a situation where he might make a mistake and show what he is really made of is grasping at straws, because it might or might not work. But maybe there is a more reliable way... Protection from Evil lasts just too short to be of use to us, even if we made everyone drink one..."
"Ah! What if we did go after both of them, but instead of killing them subdued them and dunked a Helmet of Opposite Alignment on their heads until its magic works? Then they would probably want to make amends and would help to resolve the situation themselves. Little risk to bystanders, no shedding of blood. Goodbarrel likes this idea."
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Thursday September 25th, 2008 7:00:37 PM
Being outside the room, hearing nothing of whats being said inside, Brahmah keeps an eye open and alert. (Perhaps backtracking a bit, but I didn't realize until now we were in a house. Brahmah will have cast Alarm on the front door for a mental alarm)
Lovely situation/DM Buzz Thursday September 25th, 2008 7:20:35 PM Zeoll all but begs for evidence to use against Blackmaine.
Winterglade asks a series of questions.
Brahmah secures the entrance with a silent alarm.
She maintains a friendly smile as she answers when she can. "The Contagious Charisma is based only on what they have for charm. Blackmaine and Herkamer have exhibited they are very wealthy, so it was easy for some to be friendly with them. There is no compulsion involved, but it is similar to one being best friends with another. Would it not seem preposterous to one of you, if the other was accused of murder? Also, if a True Friend shares the same alignment and morals as the Benefactor, there is nothing that the Hand of Love could do that would sever that tie. We are fortunate the people of this region are good people and may be turned in that way."
"Yes, there is a High Priest to Caeroldra here in the region. I assume, they are working together. As for undead and golems, there are thousands of miles of tunnels running under this island, it is possible they come from some lost and forgotten temple, but it is unlikely."
"I am not familiar with the dark practices of the gods of testing, but I could understand why they would remove the heart of someone they don't want returned to life."
'I do not know who Hollyhocks is. I have been here only three days. If you find him though, that could be your evidence. I pray your friend is still alive."
"I have met with Malica, he is a good man, but also a True Friend of Herkamer.
"There is no one present but us, I have seen to that. Herkamer is attending Malicas' party as we speak, and Blackmaine is having a banquet. After you were banished, he released the prisoners in the stocks to show his mercy to those that remained to see you off. You should also know, Herkamer is capable of scrying on those that are not protected."
"A Centaur with toes?" she giggles while placing her delicate hands over her mouth. "You're so silly."
'I can assure you, they are both very intelligent and not to be taken lightly. Covering their tracks is a mandatory precaution. They have the advantage at this point, but are not undefeatable, with or without battle."
"You can not break the bonds these two have created with the community without other evidence. Words will not do and magic is not involved"
"Would Domi be pleased with you for cursing someone, even for the common good? The only true path to reform is through willingness. Besides, who carries around cursed items to begin with?"
The last said with an arched eyebrow.
DM Buzz: I will be leaving Friday morning for an SCA event. next post will be Sunday night or early Monday day, depending on how much recuperation is necessary. Have a great weekend.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Friday September 26th, 2008 8:06:07 AM
Zeoll ponders the woman's words. He wonders who she is, who she honors, and why she is here. But he holds his peace as he tries to think.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Friday September 26th, 2008 2:44:58 PM
Brahmah is getting impatient. "Whats going on in there anyway? Do I hear a conversation?"
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) Sunday September 28th, 2008 5:23:00 AM
Mac raises one eyebrow to Brahmah and grins, but still remains quiet.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Sunday September 28th, 2008 9:13:39 AM
Zeoll thinks out loud. In summary of his thoughts and words:
What are our leads? What are the crimes?
1) Unleashing undead on the port, probably in an effort to kill the harbormaster. The problem wit proving this is that it might have been a surrogate of Blackmaine, not himself, in which case he can disavow knowledge, sacrifice the necromancer, and still stay in power. Also, there are miles and miles of tunnel to explore ... we have no time for delving water or sewer.
2) Murder of the mayor and his daughter. This happened long enough ago that we cannot raise them. And we have no leads as to witnesses or clues.
3) False accusations against Jacktar. Once again, we have no clues or leads. Plus that's a pretty weak reed.
We really have to prove number two. But how?
The liontaur returns to his thoughts.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Sunday September 28th, 2008 9:14:13 AM
By the way, if anyone is still outside, Zeoll goes to fetch them and brings them up to speed on what the party now knows.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Sunday September 28th, 2008 8:57:48 PM
"The only way to prove a murder is to have a witness or something left behind by the murdering party."
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+17=34 ; Sunday September 28th, 2008 9:18:50 PM
The hour is late, my friends, but we have to move. If this kind woman cannot help us further, then let us go a-searching. We must find the family of the mayor and his daughter. Starting with his wife, if she lives, and his family.
Perhaps, sad though it might be, we can disinter the body and cast Speak with Dead.
Gather Info to find the family: 34.
Winterglade Monday September 29th, 2008 6:19:18 AM
[Guys, the internet access at my university hasn't been fixed yet. I'm cut off for now, but hope I'll be back this week.]
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Monday September 29th, 2008 11:29:42 AM
"What we find out?"
Things to ponder/DM Buzz Monday September 29th, 2008 6:15:24 PM Zeoll thinks for a bit on what the lady in the blue cloak has had to say. He goes over in his mind several options and counter options that might play out, but only one that is probable. He ensures all are involved.
Brahmah wants to know what is being said, but there seems to be plenty of room for him to move forward, this house built for large dwellers. He asks what was missed.
Mac maintains his position.
Theorex is adamant that evidence is the only way to success.
Winterglade has asked all he can and allows the other group members their chance at questioning the female enigma.
In response to what the others have shared, their informant replies, "I don't think they wanted Guido dead until he lead them to Jacktars camp, which he eventually did. It is possible the undead were not meant for him or anyone else in particular. There was a burial for the Managers daughter, but Bewinks has not been found. Which is odd really. Why would they remove the heart and allow the body to be found, then get rid of the body, when they could have been rid of the body before it was found to begin with?" She asks, almost attempting to hand you a clue.
I can also tell you, it is not a random chance that I brought you to this house right here, but this is really is as much as I can share and still be able to assist you more in the future.
She stands to her small sized furry paws and pulls her blue hood up over her long, thick hair. Her eyes and mouth all that can now be seen of her face.
"It was a pleasure meeting you all and now I also have matters to attend to. I pray that someday we may all sit down over a nice mug of cider and relate our pasts in detail."
She starts for the door, but waits for a visible path to be made for her before she walks by you all, outside into the rain.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Tuesday September 30th, 2008 11:22:46 AM
Brahmah just watches her go. "What now?"
OOC: Come on guys?/DM Buzz Tuesday September 30th, 2008 3:34:28 PM
Do you need some hints or tips to get you going here?
The problem with "murder mysteries" is the more minds at work, the easier it is to solve problems, since there is only a few of you actively playing, I can see how it could be harder for you, so here are some tips.
The trees at the temple said "The priests of testing can not enter", but does that mean that a priest of testing couldn't be carried in by a priest of Domi? Especially if "playing" dead?
Who builds towers, especially new ones?
Why did this wemic bring you to this house, out of many others on the street?
Here are just a few to start with.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+3=5 ; d20+11=21 ; Tuesday September 30th, 2008 4:50:02 PM
Zeoll listens carefully, then nods in thanks and steps aside to let her pass. He notes that she said she might help us again in the future. He asks her how to contact her if they need to.
[OOC: Buzz, I'm sorry to be lame, but who is Herkamer? Who is or was Bewinks (the mayor?)? Guido was the harbormaster's name, right? Did the female wemic give us her name? If not, Zeoll asks her for it before she leaves.]
Zeoll wonders what she meant about this house. He looks around it. Who lives here? Is anyone here now? He will walk through, but first he asks Brahmah to go first to look for tracks and signs -- before Zeoll steps on anything.
Untrained Search 5 bleck.
Zeoll asks his friends if they think there might be something more going on at the grove. But the trees didn't say anything. Of course, they might not notice,
Zeoll uses his bard lore to think about what an evil villain might want with a murder victim's heart. Bard Lore 21.
Zeoll prays for guidance, too.
DM Buzz: #1 Herkamer is the gnome advisor to Blackmaine. Without having seen him, you don't know if it's the same gnome that attacked you in the valley. (Except for the fact Blackmaine admitted it was he that did so.)
#2 Belwinks was the Fort manager found dead with his heart removed.
#3 Guido was the Harbomaster.
#4 The female wemic says this when you first entered the room. "I must apologize, but I must be very forward when I say, I can tell you nothing of myself at this time, for reasons that you may understand later, but not now. I can answer truthfully all your questions though and I can elaborate further, once on any subject"
#5 Parts are used for many different things. From spell components to rituals of sacrifice, perhaps the eating of a foes heart makes another stronger? Those are a few of many reasons to obtain one.
What I would really like to suggest to you all, having much more 3.5 experience then I, to sit down as the bad guys and come up with ways that you could do what is being done here. You may find, there are not that many and they will not be far from the mark, if off. I can see frustration with a lot of these posts and you might just be thinking to hard on a lot of these situations.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Tuesday September 30th, 2008 8:22:39 PM
Occ: The problem that I am having as the Character, is that I don't have all the information I need to be helpful in this problem since I came into the story mid way through. My wife also came in at the same time. So I don't like to assume that my character knows something unless it was told to him. Ie by being written to him like this is being written.
So I am sorry I have not been much help. If you want to say that I know everything in all the posts but what was for blanked out then let me know.
Jim
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Wednesday October 1st, 2008 12:28:57 PM
OOC: Politics and intrigue are not my thing, hence the fact I amd playing a ranger and a monk in the Wold :), but I just started realizing this is a murder/who-done-it thing. My brain is being occupied with DMing at the moment so creativity is draining IC performance. Sorry. Some information does seem really vague at times and with no time to do much other than eating, sleeping and trying to keep the new kid at work from taking my job, I have had alot to occupy my mind.
IC: "Who owns this house? It seems odd that we are here. Is it hers?" Brahmah goes to find a study and any paperwork which might help to fill gaps. (Search Taking 50, I mean 20 ;)
Investigation, what a concept/DM Buzz Wednesday October 1st, 2008 4:29:28 PM Jim, you know as much as the rest of them do. They were only in town a few days when the found you and Tiba, so if you have time, go back to the archives and take a look at the couple of days you missed please.
So the group allows her to leave without further questions. She begins to walk east again mentioning something about it being a lovely night for a party.
The group searches through the house, using whatever light source they desire, the candle is still available as well.
Upstairs, you see a mural on the wall of the master bedroom. A friendly looking fellow with a young centaur maiden at his side, his arm gently over her shoulder.
On the outside, a root cellar with a beaten trail from many years of use sits near the garden, the door slightely open.
THE DM STRONGLY SUGGESTS INVESTIGATING THIS!!!
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+13=27 ; d20+4=6 ; Wednesday October 1st, 2008 5:16:41 PM
Zeoll says he suspects the woman may be going back to Malica's party.
Zeoll takes the bait! He turns invisible and sneaks down into the cellar, using only his low-light vision at first. If that reveals little, he will come back, get all his friends, and check it out in force.
Spot 27, Listen 6
The seer is thinking hard about the enemy, trying to put himself in Blackmaine's shoes. He mentions his suspicion that maybe Blackmaine is a Blackguard, that is, an Anti-Paladin. He certainly detected as evil when Zeoll scanned him.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+7=10 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+9=17 ; d20+5=19 ; Thursday October 2nd, 2008 8:28:54 AM
Still invisible Theorex searches the room for information and studies the painting. Knowledge local 10+2 =12 (sorry had a plus 9 not 7) :) Knowledge nobility 23
Spot for anything hidden 17 Search 19
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Thursday October 2nd, 2008 9:11:34 AM
"Ok I think we need a quick review since it looks like some time has passed."
OCC:It was a year ago in real life when this started.
Lets go after the information in this house and see if it points to the death of the leader. Also what about the death of the harbor master Guido. Why did he die? What did he know that needed to remain hidden?
It seems that the enemy doesn't want us to get information and sent us out of the city by challenging us and we just left. We look guilty to the hearts of the people by leaving. I think we should quickly go find as much as we can about where the deaths have happened and cast whatever spells we can to find out information and then go back to the city with the information and challenge Blackmane-Blackheart.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) d20+15=26 ; d20+4=23 ; d20+14=15 listen; Thursday October 2nd, 2008 8:07:37 PM
OOC: Wow, Essyx, yes, you should have probably waited to be introduced. Your lucky no one here kills on sight anymore. :)
IC: "So, I'll check the study and that sort of place. Then I'll see if there is a roof entrance and check that out. Remember everyone, I have alarmed the door and the passage word is 'WHO' YOU KNOW BEST IN YOUR HEART."
"Heyoo, you silly bear, stay with me."
He'll take 20. (Rolls in case taking 20 is a bad idea... Spot 26, Search 23, Listen 15)[increases with favored enemies]
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Friday October 3rd, 2008 1:47:52 PM
He goes off and explores the rooms mentioned. "Anyone else coming?"
From top to bottom/DM Buzz Friday October 3rd, 2008 8:51:56 PM Zeoll believes the mysterious lady intends to visit malica. He sets to work, hoping she hasn't lead them on a false trail. He goes invisible and steps back out into the rain to visit the root cellar.
Theorex still invisible studies the others rooms where things are dryer. The mural on the wall resembles the very estate this house rests on, with a view from the rear facing the back of the house. Others remind Theorex what the female wemic had said about them thinking Guido the Harbor Master being a spy for Jacktar and it costing him his life. He also feels, like Jacktar, they deserted the community and must make amends.
Brahmah after investigations can see, there is no door to the roof. One must climb up by using a ladder. The crawl space near the ceiling with no exterior access is large enough for repair work if it were necessary. Once, he searches through the house, he can find nothing else. Heyoo shakes off all the moisture he can before ambling after his horned friend.
The group can easily split up and stay within ear shot of each other, but as Zeoll descends into the cellar, he can see obviously large hoof prints, much like what Brahmah would leave behind. Hastily buried under a now rotting produce box, Zeoll finds a book, wrapped in many layers of oiled cloth to prevent moisture from ruining the text.
Anyone with a Comprehend Languages spell or the ability to read the centaur language Highlight to display spoiler: { It seems to be a journal from the daughter of Balentine the old fort manager. It goes back for years, but it is the entries from just a few months ago that catch your attention. It relates how she met Blackmaine on the road coming from Fort Damastes. "Oh what a fine and striking figure of a centaur he is too. He is looking to relocate to a new area and asked about Fort Stag".......................... Nothing of importance until a week later. "Blackmaine has told me he overheard jacktar plotting against my father. He told me not to mention anything, because then he could hide evidence that Blackmaine needed to thwart those plans. I think I'm falling in love with him."...................................... Another week goes by, "I must escape for my own safety, he tells me. My father was found dead and he thinks Hollyhocks and Jacktar are responsible. I can't believe it, Hollyhocks! He helped me live as my mother died in fathers arms. How could he be involved? I must get away from here, I have no one to trust, no where to go, wait, there is someone here, please if you're a friend of good, seek out Hollyhocks, my father, anyone and bring back what was once law to this fine area." The last words written in a hurried script.}
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) d20+2=10 ; d20+1=10 ; d20+6=16 ; Saturday October 4th, 2008 12:27:00 AM
"Sure!" Mac replies to Brahmah, and folows along.
Search=10, Listen=10, Spot=16
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Saturday October 4th, 2008 5:07:10 AM
"So it is off to find hollyhocks then. Does anyone have something that was of his?"
Winterglade Saturday October 4th, 2008 9:59:26 AM
[Sigh. Folks, looks like the best option for me right now is to remove Winterglade from the current module. It is not only my failing internet connection, but also work and other things to do in RL that have been stacking up. Sorry. Thanks and enjoy the game, I might hop back on board sometime in the future - Marcin.]
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Saturday October 4th, 2008 4:33:28 PM
OOC: Well, darn it. Goodbar-- Winterglade, its been fun. I hope you return soon.
IC: "Hey, anyone see Winterglade recently?" A horrible thought crosses his mind. "I haven't seen him since the female left. Could she have kidnapped him for ransom?"
Everylady needs an escort/DM Buzz Saturday October 4th, 2008 5:49:05 PM
Winterglade, stricken with the knowledge of the problems in this area. pirates and Ankhegs, monster vermin and drunks deides to attend the party with the female lady. She does not attempt to dissuade him as they walk out into the rain together. He offers her his arm in a gentlemanly fashion and with a smile and swish of her tail accepts as they enter the mud filled road.
OOC: That leaves no clerics now guys. I suggest you druid(s) pay close attention to your spell listings from now on.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Sunday October 5th, 2008 8:32:52 AM
Zeoll is struck dumb when Winterglade leaves. A moment later, he manages a good by and fare well. He is very sad to see the centaur go.
[OOC: I was under the impression that Hollyhocks left before Blackmaine arrived, and that he went with the other druids to help in the South. Is that right, Buzz?
DM Buzz: No, this is not correct. Hollyhocks was the only one to stay. He was the clergy for the town as the new political process was put in order. When Balentine was discovered with his heart removed, Hollyhocks had him taken back to the temple so that he could do a "Speak with Dead" in the morning. The problem with this is, that same night Jacktar was run out of town and Holloyhocks with the body of Balentine has come up missing. It had been mentioned that Balentines daughter was also murdered and that she was buried, but no one claimed to see the body during the funeral, it being a "closed casket" ceremony.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Sunday October 5th, 2008 9:31:05 AM
Theorex wave good bye to Winterglade. "Good fortune go with you my friend."
"I guess that we should find hollyhocks then or the person who wrote this diary or journal. Or perchance both."
Reminders for old and new players/DM Buzz Sunday October 5th, 2008 9:55:10 AM
Monday June 16th, 2008 7:21:27 PM 1.
Larmane stands perfectly still behind Jacktaur eyeing those that are handling their weapons. He in no way appears nervous or concerned about it however.
Jacktaur on the other hand has a wide array of facial expressions as each speak in turn. To Zeoll he relates, "Hollyhocks has not been seen in months. The last word that was heard from him was when Larmane here received an urgent message that his assistance was necessary, but by the time he arrived, half the warriors of Fort Stag was either outlaws or imprisoned. There are rumors Hollyhocks is also a prisoner in the dungeons of Fort Stag, but rumors are seldom accurate, even if they drift on the wind of truth.
When Winterglade speaks, Jacktaur does not look pleased, "You swore an oath to serve him, and you all do not know his name? You did this with the knowledge that he wishes total control over the centaur island?"
With a tainted tone of disdain he continues, "Those that are not his minions are either here, imprisoned or dead as you should be aware. Those here escaped in the night when we were all taken by surprise in our sleep by a large group of well armed and armored minotaurs. Minotaurs!" He does not seem to care that there is one in your party, but that the audacity of the situation has him on edge. "When I refused they drew arms and it was then, I knew there was something amiss. Thank Domi I had no wife or children in my hearth, but others are not so lucky. They are now held along with others that would not swear their fealty to him."
Larmane speaks for the first time in the meeting. He addresses the room, though his words are for the outlaw captain. "With my own faith, I believe their words are to be true, as were the other divinations.
Jacktaur smiles a genuine gesture for the first time. "I agree with all you have reasoned and if you are willing to take on this Blackmane then you are my guests."
Jacktaur relaxes and seems quite present in the moment.
"There are only two ways to approach this matter" Says the acknowledged captain of Fort Stag, "unless you have come up with a different plan you may share when I'm finished."
If I could address Blackmaine and challenge him to a Kayleb, then the populace would not or could not choose a side but of the victors. I do not know the power of this individual, I have never seen him either, but perhaps if I could win the Kayleb, there would be no bloodshed but our own."
He then shrugs his shoulders and takes a deep breath, "If I lose, then the island is stuck with a tyrant, which is the worst possible scenario."
"The other option is to find out where he is and take him on as a group to battle it out. Some bad sentiments will come of it with the population but with time it will improve."
"If only we could find out how powerful he is or perhaps better what weaknesses, he has that we can exploit?"
DM Buzz: Thus, Hollyhocks must have contacted Larmane the day they found the mayor dead and before he "came up missing". Since the group didn't go with plan A or plan B, I guess you need to determine what plan C is.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Sunday October 5th, 2008 12:35:47 PM
Thanks, Buzz! More later!
What does it mean?/DM Buzz Monday October 6th, 2008 5:51:08 PM Mac follows along with the others.
Theorex wonders if a possession of Hollohocks is available as someone continues to hold the weather protected journal.
Tiba left almost an hour ago and is not here right now. Sheila, please send me an email when you return so we can get you right back into the action.
Winterglade examines the journal for everyone, since he seems to be the only one that can understand the writing at this time, then with a gleam in his eye, goes after the lady wemic. All characters know what the spoiler says.
Brahmah says his goodby's to Goodbarrel and makes jest.
Zeoll too shows remourse at the leaving of their friend and comrade Winterglade, he shows appreciation to the spirits of time.
It seems to be a journal from the daughter of Balentine the old fort manager. It goes back for years, but it is the entries from just a few months ago that catch your attention. It relates how she met Blackmaine on the road coming from Fort Damastes. "Oh what a fine and striking figure of a centaur he is too. He is looking to relocate to a new area and asked about Fort Stag".......................... Nothing of importance until a week later. "Blackmaine has told me he overheard Jacktar plotting against my father. He told me not to mention anything, because then he could hide evidence that Blackmaine needed to thwart those plans. I think I'm falling in love with him."...................................... Another week goes by, "I must escape for my own safety, he tells me. My father was found dead and he thinks Hollyhocks and Jacktar are responsible. I can't believe it, Hollyhocks! He helped me live as my mother died in fathers arms. How could he be involved? I must get away from here, I have no one to trust, no where to go, wait, there is someone here, please if you're a friend of good, seek out Hollyhocks, my father, anyone and bring back what was once law to this fine area." The last words written in a hurried script.
The following characters are no longer in the group until I get an email from their players. Flat-top Tiba Gecktar Winterglade
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Monday October 6th, 2008 6:52:56 PM
OOC: OY! We need a bloody flippen cleric! Sheesh... you all go blooey right when things are dicey! ;)
OOC: Brahmah is high enough level to cast only one or two Cure spells, anything beyond is impossible. I know a couple of Chosen have Cure tattoos, but I think those PCs are gone now.
IC: "So this was Hollyhocks place? I wonder if there is more to this place than a diary?"
DM Buzz: NO! This is Balentines old house. Him and his daughter are on the mural.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Monday October 6th, 2008 10:15:24 PM
"hmm very well lets examine this journal and go after Hollyhocks."
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+10=13 d20+23=31 Tuesday October 7th, 2008 7:49:56 AM
The illiterate seer uses magic to gift himself with the art of reading. He cast Comp Lang and looks over the journal.
Zeoll ponders the situation. From the journal, he suspects that this house itself and its area around was the scene of some disturbance, maybe even the murder of Balentine. Something bad happened right here. He casts Speak with Plants and walks around the house, in and out. Maybe some tree here witnessed the murder or other crime. Maybe the plant would know Balentine, since he was the master of this house. Or Hollyhocks, a well-regarded druid.
It's a long shot, but worth a try. Wild Empathy and Diplomacy, if needed, to use in taking to trees and plants. If needed, Zeoll will double the duration of his spell with a use of his metamagic rod.
Wild Emp: 14 (sorry, only added +10 above; shoulda been +11) Diplom: 31
And it might be worth it to spend 15 minutes searching the area nearby for anything ... maybe a shallow grave? Zeoll asks Captain Brahmah to take a look with a ranger's eye.
Update on Spells 'n' Stuff Used Today
Druid Spells (underlined = used) Level 0: Guidance x2, Det Magic, Det Magic, Taur's Try Level 1: Speak with Animals, Speak with Animals x3 Level 2: Hold Animal, Charm Anim x3 Level 3: Speak with Plants x3
Bard Spells 0 of 3 Level 0 spells used 1 of 5 Level 1 spells used 3 of 4 Level 2 spells used
Bard Music: 3 of 6 used today Metamagic Rod: 1 of 3 used Wand of Speak with Animals: 1 of 50 used Goodberries from Wreath: 0 of 15 used Wind Fan: 0 used Elixers of Sneakiness: 1 of 6 used
Resources and spells used today: Charge of Speak with Animals wand - Aug 10 Bard Music - Aug 10 Heroism and Detect Magic - Aug 13 Bard Music - Aug 14 Extended Heroism - Aug 22 Speak with Plants x2 - Sept 2 Suggestion - Sept 11 Bard Music - Sept 12 Speak with Animals x2 - Sept 17 Comp Lang - Oct. 6 Speak with Plants - Oct. 6
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) d20+4=8 ; d20+4=13 ; d20+4=10 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+20=23 ; d20+20=28 ; d20+20=25 ; d20+20=37 ; d20+15=33 ; d20+15=16 ; d20+15=30 ; d20+15=35 ; Tuesday October 7th, 2008 9:07:37 AM
Brahmah shrugs and looks around for a shallow grave. He'll look in the basement, then move outside. (Takes 20 to Search the basement)
Moving outside, he'll take as much time as is needed to determine, one way or another, whether there is a grave on site. He will move out up and no further than 50 feet away from the house. He has a suspicion this house might still be being watched by offending parties. He will draw weapon as he searches.
Rolling four checks a piece, one for each direction searched from the house. (Search 8, 13, 10 and 15, Survival for general check 23, 28, 25 and 37, Spot 33, 16, 30 and 35)
(Can't find a recent spell list, but as it is rather short anyway, I have cast one Alarm and have an Alarm and I believe a Barkskin left)
DM BUzz: You also used a Spider Climb Tattoo just before entering the Fort.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+9=11 ; d20+5=25 ; Tuesday October 7th, 2008 9:10:35 PM
Can I have a discription of the rooms in the house and what is around the area so that I can picture it in my head?
Moving around Theorex tries to find anything that might tell who lives or lived here.
Spot 11 Search natural 20 yes for a total of 25.
"Ah this is interesting..."
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Wednesday October 8th, 2008 5:54:54 PM
OOC: Thanks Buzz, but I was just trying to remember ACTUAL spells prepared though.
IC: Brahmah feels a tug at his heart, as if something is closing in on the Chosen that no one, not even Domi, can prevent.
He continues searching, rather unethusiastically.
A trail of crumbsDM Buzz Wednesday October 8th, 2008 8:49:54 PM
The group searches through the house and yard until they find the journal. Within, a tale of fright from a young woman that is unaware of her predicament,
A set of hooves are found in the basement as well and after leaving the root cellar, Brahmah with some difficulty can tell, five minotaurs struggled with a captive north toward a ridge line of trees bordering the property. They then travel west toward the shore and enter what appear to be solid rock facing the crashing waves. Between the shoreline and the rock face lies a distance of around sixty feet.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Thursday October 9th, 2008 4:08:43 PM
He hurries to find the others. "I have something, come down stairs! Tracks and a trail that heads north then west."
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+3=10 ; Thursday October 9th, 2008 5:15:51 PM
Oh! Events reveal clues before Zeoll can even cast his Speak with Plants! He thinks that this will surely lead the party on to answers, or at least to adventure. The trail leads to a rock face. "Well, done, Captain Brrahmah!" says the seer.
Maybe there is a secret door in the rock face, or nearby. Zeoll looks -- untrained search is a 10 -- and encourages everybody to search too. Looking around, he realizes that "everyone" is just Brahmah and Theo.
"How odd, my frriends," Zeoll says. "That we arre so rreduced. How did that happen? Wherre is my oldest and dearrest frriend, Flat-top? Wherre arre Gecktarr and Winterrglade, ourr prriests of Domi?"
Suddenly returning to the sandy beach, Zeoll sits down in surprise. He seems only now to have realized his losses.
"Where is Torros, that brrave barrd and clerric and shadowdancerr? Where is Leets, my paladin frriend? Where is ourr grreenmage, Kanchana? Wherre arre Kale and Kenisha and Kalon? Do you rrememberr Cierra, Brrhamah? She was always hungrry, like Flat-top."
"Arre Solgrrin and Kanchana and Kenisha still taking carre of the childrren? The little unitaurrs. How special they arre. How frragile."
"Oh, well. The sea sprray has splashed into my eyes," Zeoll says.
He starts to sing a song, but does not make it past the first few words.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Thursday October 9th, 2008 7:14:23 PM
Brahmah pats Zeoll kindly on the shoulder. "How things change. Is it possible that Domi wishes us to END here on a long stretch of beach, so far from OUR homes? Just to fade out?"
Then the ranger shakes it all off. "But we have a mission and if it is to be our last, I want to finish at your side my friend."
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+9=12 ; d20+5=8 ; Friday October 10th, 2008 7:36:40 AM
Sitting down with his comrades Theorex takes out some bread and cheese for everyone to have.
"I know that you can not see me but I am here. I sadly have not found much even though I was sure I found something." " I am sure that our journey is not over. It is a time to have faith my friends in that Domi will provide worthy hero's to come right to this beach. Perchance maybe someone who saw events from within the city."
"Tell me what you have found my friends. Ah yes... Sadly I do not have the spell detect secret doors or a tracking spell in memory today but I can for tomorrow."
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) Friday October 10th, 2008 9:24:09 AM
"So far from OUR homes?! Would you like to guess how long it has been since I was as near to my home as you are far from yours?"
Pausing to chew and swallow some bread (thanks!) he adds, "If he tells you so, then please let us know. But the Domi I know is a Blacksmith - He doesn't discard his tools while there is still an ounce of strength left in them... while they can still do his work."
"And maybe this will provide me with a chance to demonstrate what I can do."
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Friday October 10th, 2008 9:44:50 AM
"Anyway! We still have a mission. We can help these people rid themselves of Blackmaine and the rest and go back to a good life. I have decided. If I survive this, I will return home and raise grapes. I might buy a ship too. Rather than revenging my father, I might just pick up where he left off."
Never say Goodby, but farewell/ DM Buzz Friday October 10th, 2008 5:57:25 PM
The surf pounds on the sands behind the party as the night slowly passes. The gentle droplets of water continuously falls on the heros and rolls down their body to land on the already wet sand. A voice that sounds like waves crashing against rocks fills the ears of the Chosen from behind them as they chew on what Theorex provides for them. Turning about, they can see the face of a man with an encouraging smile looking upon them, as tall as a tree.
His kind voice comforting as he speaks, "I can see that the time has not yet arrived for the races of these isles to come together as brothers and sisters. The gods of testing rest in the hearts of to many for it to be possible at this time. Yet, you have fought the good fight and you have done much in my name, in order for others to become better then they were before you came into their lives. Bridge island is even now sinking into the ocean, never again will the sun shine directly upon it as it once did. The peoples of these islands must come to their own understandings of what is right and wrong. Until then, they will continue to clash just as the waves create sand. I know your group is apart, but know, you will also be together, because I know in my immortal heart, you will always fight for those that can not fight for themselves. Many are called my children, but very few have been Chosen."
With that, a huge wave that would kill most mortals rise up out of the water and lands on the group of three. The warmth of the water like a warm blanket as it pulls you out to sea. Your instincts to struggle nonexistent as you watch your body travel further and further from the shoreline. Your destination unknown as the hand of Domi leads you to your next adventure. Where? Only he will know the answer to that and you are confident, wherever you make land once again, it is there you will be needed.
Thus ends the game named The Chosen of Domi, but be not fooled faithful readers, their story is not over, but truly, it has just begun.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Friday October 10th, 2008 8:40:18 PM
Zeoll's deep sorrow threatens to overwhelm him. But the words of the divine figure sink in, and he dares to hope for a new day.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Saturday October 11th, 2008 12:59:40 PM
Brahmah's thoughts fill with hope as the figure speaks. The large taur can only stare, even his heart, which is truly full now, has stopped beating. He simply says with wide eyes, "Domi..."
Thank you friends for your companionship this past seven years. See you out there... Have Courage and go with Honor!
(OOC: How fitting, Brahmah's first vision of the Chosen was across water and now his last is across water... full circle... :))
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Sunday October 12th, 2008 11:01:22 AM
"I am honored to have played with you."
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Sunday October 12th, 2008 2:15:30 PM
Brahmah moves alo..... oops, oh yeah,no more game, bye! :)
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Monday October 13th, 2008 3:06:35 PM
OOC: Keeping it alive!!
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Monday October 13th, 2008 9:59:13 PM
Zeoll pops in, takes a look around, and follows Brahmah.
/ DM Buzz Tuesday October 14th, 2008 3:32:17 AM
I suppose we could just keep posting. I'm alright with just four players, as i've said before.
Random encounters.
A lost dungeon
Something that actually involves not having to be heros but adventurers.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Tuesday October 14th, 2008 8:37:14 AM
Zeoll looks wildly around, as the waves bear him someplace new. A lost dungeon? Wowsy, as the cubs say, that would be swell!
[OOC: That would be sweet as a just for fun thing, Buzz! To the extent that it is fun for you and NOT a chore!]
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Tuesday October 14th, 2008 12:28:00 PM
I'M IN!!
/ DM Buzz Tuesday October 14th, 2008 8:52:45 PM
As long as Jerry doesn't mind, I'm totally down with that. We can even bring Kris in and we can call it an "experiment".
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Wednesday October 15th, 2008 9:16:08 AM
Zeoll takes a look around. Hmmmm. "Oh, Brrahmah, therre you arre? Has anyone else made it herre?"
LOG ON