Kayleb Before the Story (SteveK) Wednesday January 7th, 2009 1:45:59 PM
OOC: LInk to the Map (and background) of Cinnamon Valley http://www.woldiangames.com/Woldipedia/index.php/Geography:_Cinnamon_Valley ............................
The group stops an hour or two short of the anticipated inn to refresh themselves and have a formalized combat to determine group leader.
Marcas and Lucky prepare themselves for the combat, standing next to each other in melee range.
Glandum and Nirith argue that fighting for the leadership is a poor way to determine who would be best.
Sir John agrees that fighting for the leader's position is not the best, but since there isn't a proposed alternative, let 'em fight.
Sira has no opinion one way or another, but continues her verbal assessment of her companions, to include the stupidity of farmers who can't feed themselves.
.......................
The space is cleared and Marcas and Lucky (riding Cedric) prepare for thier fight.
ooc: roll d10 + Dex for Initiative and post five rounds of combat. The winner of the initiative will go first and I'll alternate the actions until one hero 'yields' or is incapacitated.
Marcasthai (SteveK) d20+12=32 ; d10+3=6 ; d20+10=19 ; d20+10=26 ; d20+10=24 ; d20+10=11 ; d20+10=19 ; d20+5=25 ; d20+5=25 ; d20+5=20 ; d20+5=6 ; d20+5=9 ; d8+4=7 ; d8+4=12 ; d8+4=6 ; d8+4=6 ; d8+4=7 ; d8+4=7 ; d8+4=8 ; d8+4=6 ; d8+4=10 ; d8+4=5 ; Wednesday January 7th, 2009 1:56:48 PM
The minotaur grunts and agrees with the humans and dwarf. "I am too blunt for talking, true. But as leader, I will ask those who are better than I to talk when talk is needed. And I will lead the fight when fighting is needed."
Marcas agrees to Lucky's suggestion and prepares an open space. "Sir John, will you be the facilitator for this Kayleb?", the minotaur asks in his deep, quiet voice.
Marcas ignores Lucky's banter with a smile (Intimidate:32), holds onto his large Ranseur and stands beside Lucky.
On Sir John's signal, Marcas turns to deliver a fearsome series of kicks and elbows at the diminuitive halfling! Marcas keeps within close melee range, and makes all his blows non-lethal.
Initiative: 6
Round 1: AC 19 Dam 7, AC 25 Dam 7
Round 2: AC 26 Dam 12, AC 25 Dam 8
Round 3: AC 24 Dam 6, AC 20 Dam 6
Round 4: AC nat1 Dam 0, AC nat1 Dam 0
Round 5: AC 19 Dam 7, AC 9 Dam 5
Sir John (Ken M) Wednesday January 7th, 2009 2:38:14 PM
Sir John nods solemnly and thanks Marcas for the honor of facilitating this combat, or Kayleb as his minotaurian friend calls it. "Remember, it is until one of you yields or is unable to yield, such as being unconscious. It will last five rounds and I expect both of you to fight honorably. As a wise man once said, Let's get ready to rumble (OOC = OK, I couldn't resist ;-) ) " With that said, he'll step out of the area and ensure that it is a fair and honorable duel.
Spells prepped - previously chosen at random: 0: Virtue, Inflict Minor Wounds, Create Water, Virtue, Detect Poison 1: Shield of Faith, Magic Weapon, Entropic Shield, Detect Law, Entropic Shield 2: Eagle's Splendor, Aid, Hold Person, Aid 3: Wind Wall, Inflict Serious Wounds, Protection from Energy
Other resources: 50 charge CLW wand. Magic Stone Tattoo x3. Stunning Fist 3/day.
Note: There are two ways that Lucky uses Tyco to gain cover. First, as in the first three rounds of the combat, he uses his Ride skill (DC15) to hang down on the side of his mount. Second, as in the fourth round of combat, he can dismount and put the mount between him and his opponent. The difference between these two forms of cover is that the Ride cover does not allow attacking or spell casting (it does allow other activities, such as activating magic items or using total defense). The Soft cover of the dismount does allow attacks and spell casting, However, his opponent uses a move action to go around the mount and then attacks once (a standard attack, not a full attack), then the opponent can totally negate the cover.
Round 1: Lucky starts with 5 luck points. He rolls his Base AC this round: a 4. Yikes. As a free action, Lucky swings down on Tyco, using the mount as cover. The Ride check for that is a DC15. Lucky has a +9 on Ride checks, and uses four luck points to boost him to a +13. His Ride check is a 29, so no problem, and he gets back his four luck points and an extra one. Now he has 6 Luck Points, and cover for a +4 AC boost. Then he uses a standard action to use Total Defense. That gives him another +6 AC boost. So Lucky's AC until next round is 4 base +4 cover +6 total def +3 dex +4 wis +1 amulet +1 ring +3 bracers +1 size = 27. Lucky has a remaining move action, but chooses not to use it. With his sweet sweet AC27, Lucky avoids both of Marcasthai's attacks this round.
Round 2: Lucky starts with 6 luck points. He rolls his Base AC this round: a 19 -- that gives him more breathing room! Lucky goes for cover again this round, again using four luck points to boost his Ride check to +13. A 14! What bad luck -- a natural one!! Lucky not only fails to get cover from Tyco, but he loses four Luck Points! He is down to 2! He chooses to activate a magic item -- his Tattoo -- and creates three magic stones. His AC this round is 19 base +3 dex +4 wis +1 amulet +1 ring +3 bracers +1 size = 32. None of the taur's attacks hit.
Round 3: Lucky starts with 2 luck points. He rolls his Base AC this round: another 4. Lucky again tries to use his mount as cover. He uses both his remaining Luck Points. His total mod is +11 to hit a needed +15. His roll is a 22! Success! And he gets another Luck Point. He again uses Total Defense. His AC again is a 27. Again, the taur does not land a blow.
Round 4: Lucky starts with 3 luck points. He rolls his Base AC this round: a 9. He chooses to dismount from Tyco. He tries for a Fast Dismount, a DC20 Ride check. He uses no Luck Points on this effort. His roll (at +9) is a natural 20! He dismounts as a free action. Now with cover, Lucky casts an Inflict Serious Wounds spell. Because he has cover, he provokes no attacks of opportunity (you can't make an AoO vs a target who has cover). Then he mounts his horse as a move action (no roll needed) and attacks the Taur with a touch attack (you can cast a touch spell and attack with it in the same round). He uses his combat expertise but is not fighting defensively. His attack therefore is a base +5 -4 = +1 vs the Taur's Touch Ac which looks to be AC12. Lucky's attack is a 13! He inflicts 3d8+5 damage to the Taur, that is, 18 damage. Lucky's AC this round is a 9 base +3 dex +4 wis +1 amulet +1 ring +3 bracers +1 size +4 feat = 26. None of the taur's attacks hit.
Round 5: Lucky starts with 3 luck points. He rolls his Base AC this round: a 10. He again tries a fast dismount as a free action. His roll is a d20+9=15 -- NOT a free action. Lucky uses a move action, therefore, to dismount. From cover, he throws a magic stone at the Taur. Doing so does not provoke an AoO because he has soft cover. He uses a luck point and rolls an at attack at +11 [later edit: +12 with PB shot, but it did not matter] vs Marcasthai's AC20 -- A miss and a lost Luck Point! Lucky's AC is now 10 base +3 dex +4 wis +1 amulet +1 ring +3 bracers +1 size +4 cover = 27, unless the Taur chooses to forego the full attack in order to move around Tyco and attack Lucky's AC23 without cover. If he goes the full attack option as rolled above, then no attacks hit.
At the end of round five, Lucky has inflicted 18 damage and has 2 Luck Points left. Marcasthai has inflicted no damage to the halfling.
"Had enough?" laughs the halfling. "Seriously, feel free to yield! It only gets messier from here on in! Odds are you won't even touch me. No shame is seeing that now."
Cap'n Lucky (Cayzle) Wednesday January 7th, 2009 4:15:45 PM
To Sir John, Lucky says, "I think we'll need a few more rounds!"
Cap'n Lucky (Cayzle) d20+11=15 ; d20=4 ; d20-2=6 ; d20=12 ; d20+9=21 ; d20+12=31 ; d6+2=7 ; Wednesday January 7th, 2009 4:35:27 PM
Fair's fair! Let me post a few rounds now.
Round 6: Lucky starts with 2 luck points. He rolls his Base AC this round: a 13 (entered in previous post). If Lucky needs to, he takes a five foot step to again use Tyco as soft cover. Lucky throws another Magic Stone, this time with no Luck Point, and provoking no AoO again. His attack is at +11 with PB shot. AC15, he misses. Lucky's AC until next round is 13 base +4 cover +3 dex +4 wis +1 amulet +1 ring +3 bracers +1 size = 30. Lucky has a remaining move action, but chooses not to use it. The Taur can take two attacks vs AC30 or maneuver to cancel the halfling's cover, attacking once vs AC26.
Round 7: Lucky starts with 2 luck points. He rolls his Base AC this round: a 4. Lucky chooses to mount Tyco as a move action and attack defensively using combat expertise and an unarmed strike. His attack, at -7, has a total mod of +5-7=-2. Lucky will need a natural 20 to hit. He misses. And Lucky's AC until next round is 4 base +4 feat +3 fighting defensively +4 wis +1 amulet +1 ring +3 bracers +1 size = 21. Oooh! Maybe a chance for the Taur to land a blow!
Round 8: Lucky starts with 2 luck points. He rolls his Base AC this round: a 12. The halfling tries to fast dismount -- a 21, success! Ducking behind his dinosaur (soft cover = no AoO), he throws a magic stone at +11 with PB shot and even gambles a luck point for a total +12. His attack is a 31! Yay! He inflicts 1d6+2 damage, or 7 more hp to the Taur, AND he earns a luck point! And his AC is 12 base +4 cover +4 wis +1 amulet +1 ring +3 bracers +1 size = 26, or 22 if the Taur uses a move action to nullify the cover bonus.
At the end of 8 rounds, Lucky has 3 Luck Points and has inflicted 18+7=25 damage to the Taur.
Cap'n Lucky (Cayzle) d20=6 ; d20+12=24 ; d20=13 ; d20+12=26 ; Wednesday January 7th, 2009 4:42:08 PM
Might as well go two more.
Round 9: Lucky starts with 3 luck points. He rolls his Base AC this round: a 6. Lucky mounts his dino pal as a move action, then tries to use it for cover (DC15 Ride Check). He uses all three of his remaining Luck Points in the effort, for a total +12. His result is a 24, which gives him his desired cover and an extra Luck Point. He uses his remaining standard action to use total defense. Lucky's AC until next round is 6 base +4 cover +6 full defense +3 dex +4 wis +1 amulet +1 ring +3 bracers +1 size = 29.
Round 10: Lucky starts with 4 luck points. He rolls his Base AC this round: a 13. He again uses his mount for cover, putting three luck points into the effort -- a 26 gives him that cover and an extra luck point. He uses a standard action to activate his tattoo and make another three magic stones. Lucky's AC until next round is 13 base +4 cover +3 dex +4 wis +1 amulet +1 ring +3 bracers +1 size = 30.
At the end of round 10, Lucky has five luck points again.
Glandum Wednesday January 7th, 2009 5:00:29 PM And the halfling lies.I wont use the mount for the combat, yet he's using it for cover, in essence using said mount for combat.
Instead of fighting why not have co-leadership then. The minotaur as strategic and combat and the halfling for diplomatic conditions? And when something comes up the two can put their brains together and decide on an appropriate form of action.
Two heads are better than one. Is that not the saying?
Nirith Dahaka and Nekron (StevenVdB) Wednesday January 7th, 2009 5:02:33 PM
Nirith watches as Marcasthai tries to hit Lucky over and over again...
'You'd think he would know by now that Lucky's always lucky..." she says to her companions that are also watching this strange ritual.
"KRAAAAA"
Nekron suddenly pops his head up and eyeballs the two fighters.
"The Short one is too chaotic to lead... the large one... just scares me..."
(ooc just a question, why doesn't Marcas use his reach of 10ft? Lucky would never have been able to use a touch attack - or am I missing something? In this case, both our friends would have been unharmed... glad I am on your team :-) )
Cap'n Lucky (Cayzle) Wednesday January 7th, 2009 5:13:04 PM
OOC:
(ooc just a question, why doesn't Marcas use his reach of 10ft? Lucky would never have been able to use a touch attack - or am I missing something?
I don't think it would have mattered, since Lucky could have just taken a five-foot step toward Marcasthai to get within range. Now, if the minotaur chooses to stand 20 feet back and use only his reach weapon, then I'd have to take a move action to close the gap. Maybe now that the taur sees he has underestimated me, he will consider backing off. :-)
Nirith Dahaka and Nekron (StevenVdB) Wednesday January 7th, 2009 5:38:17 PM
ooc : true, but could you take 5ft to close range, touch attack AND take 5ft step back to mount or take cover? That starts to become a lot of 5ft steps in just one round...
By the way, sheets for Nirith and Nekron are updated accoring to your remarks Cayzle - thanks a lot for reviewing!
Cedric AC 22 HP 77/77 - Deinonychus Form | Quellis (Bear) AC 19, HP 65/65 | Character SheetCurrent Spells (Troy) Wednesday January 7th, 2009 7:29:02 PM
Cedric nods to Sira, shrugging his fore shoulders. He points his fore claw at Quellis, the large armored bear, and then back at Sira. He gestures his head back to his saddle.
When the time to fight comes, Cedric stands in the middle of the two combatants. If a savage dinosaur with a vicious mouth full of teeth could be said to look bemused, you'd probably say it of him.
His large clawed toe taps in the dirt as the halfling mounts and dismounts him in rapid succession.
OOC:
Active Effects: Wildshape: 7 hours Long Strider (extended) 14 hours, SL 1, CL 7: cast in morning. Delay Poison (extended) 14 hours, SL 2, CL 7: cast in morning. Greater Magic Fang (extended) 14 hours, SL 3, CL 7: cast in morning.
Marcasthai AC 20 Touch 13, HP 49/74 (SteveK) d20+11=18 ; d20+11=28 ; d8+4=8 ; d20+11=12 ; d20+12=27 ; d20+11=23 ; d8+4=9 ; d20+11=13 ; d20+5=14 ; d20+11=19 ; d20+12=18 ; d20+11=29 ; d20+25=44 ; d8+4=12 ; d20+25=31 ; d20+25=35 ; d8+4=12 ; d8+4=10 ; Wednesday January 7th, 2009 9:14:38 PM
ooc: Loving the combat, lots of fun! Just need to make sure I understand Lucky's use of Cover. Per PHB, Soft Cover only gives +4AC to ranged attacks, not melee. Lucky had to use his Ride skill to get Cover from Cedric and so the +4AC when he succeeded. But when he dismounted, he didn't get soft cover against Marcas' melee attack, which prompts an AOO. Yes?
Round 3 AOO: The opportunity in the fight is lost as Marcas is just too slow to take Lucky's opening. AC 18 misses AC 26. Soft Cover: Creatures, even your enemies, can provide you with cover against ranged attacks
AOO Round 5 ; AC 28 Dam 8 Soft Cover: Creatures, even your enemies, can provide you with cover against ranged attacks
Marcas grins as the nimble halfling jumps around and lands a solid blow with the spell (in Round 3: Touch AC 13, still hits) While the big minotaur knew Lucky was skilled in his own right, he certainly didn't plan on such a hard time! Perhaps it is time to change tactics...
AOO Round 6: Marcas again reaches out and misses Lucky's dancing form. AC Nat1
Round 6: Noting that the halfling is back on the ground, Marcas squeezes past the standing and immobile Cedric and plows through Lucky in an Overrunning attack! With his training, Lucky can't avoid the advancing minotaur and they clash just beyond the leopard. Marcas' size and strength (Strength Check 27) is sufficient to knock his smaller opponent prone (using Wold special attack rules Lucky has a 13 opposing roll), then turns to deliver a hand chop. (AC 23 vs the prone Lucky without Cover hits. Damage: 9 points)
Round 7: From the prone, Lucky can take a move action to stand and another to mount (doesn't matter for his attack anyways) and Marcas turns to strike twice. (AC 13 and 14 both miss) before backing off 5 feet to gain some space.
AOO Round 8: In melee, Lucky has no Cover, but Marcas can't get a good strike against the very nimble foe.
Round 8: Struck again, Marcas uses his previously successful tactic of squeezing past Cedric and Overrunning the small halfling. (Overrun: 18) Again, the minotaur knocks the halfling prone, but this time, he moves to hold him there in a Grappling strike. (AC 29, Grapple: 44, Dam 12)
Round 9: Marcas maintains his Grapple on Lucky and delivers another blow. (Grapple: 31 Dam 12)
Round 10: Marcas maintains his Grapple on Lucky and delivers another blow. (Grapple: 35 Dam 10)
At the end of 10 rounds, with AOO Lucky should have 51 non-lethal damage. (43 without the one AOO), and should render that halfling unconscious.
If through some Escape Artist or other skill, Lucky gets out of Marcas' bear hug, the minotaur grins and is willing to use Glandum's compromise for the leadership position. "For you have certainly proven you can fight and to talk."
ooc: Yep, could'a used my own 5 foot steps to keep 10 feet away, drawing Lucky into more AOOs, but Marcas WAS feeling overconfident... and for his Player, I figured that a couple of straight attacks would give Cayzle a chance to show his unusual (yet effective) fighting style for everyone. :-)
ooc: turns out that the fight gave opportunity to show off some of Marcus' other fighting techniques, too!
Speck (Jonathan) Wednesday January 7th, 2009 10:08:23 PM
Speck watches the bout with amusement. He leans over to his neighbor and says over the din of the battle, "Lucky's been gone from home too long. The RIGHT way to settle this was back at the inn. Who can put away the most steak in an hour wins! And he calls himself a hafling? Tsk, tsk. Oh, I guess 'steak' would not be a very appropriate choice in this circumstance. Mutton. Yeah, Mutton. They could have decided this by who could eat the most mutton. That way, they'd both be full, happy, and sassy, regardless of who won! Oh well..."
And he goes back to watching the scuffle while finishing off a tasty desert pasty.
Cap'n Lucky (Cayzle) d20+9=26 ; d20+10=28 ; d20=14 ; d20+11=30 ; d8+1=2 ; Wednesday January 7th, 2009 11:01:02 PM
OOC: D'OH! You are right right right and I am wrong wrong wrong! I can't use soft cover either to avoid AoOs or to boost AC vs melee! But I hope I don't have to take the hit quite so many times.
Rounds 4, 5 & 6 Redux: Lucky learns that soft cover does not prevent AoOs. It does not matter in Round 4, since the minotaur's AoO misses. It matters in Round 5, when Lucky provokes an AoO and takes 8 hp damage. And it matters in Round 6, when Lucky is plowed down with an overrun attack and punched while prone for 9 damage. Question: How is Marcas overrunning and then attacking in the same round? An overrun requires a standard action in itself, right?
I submit that at this point, Lucky has learned his lesson, and will not attempt to use soft cover.
Round 7 Redux: Lucky starts with 2 luck points and is down 17 hp. He rolls his Base AC this round: a 4. Lucky stands from prone, provoking an AoO in so doing, but Marcas misses (if I understand correctly). Then Lucky tries to do a Fast Mount, a DC20 Ride check to get on as a free action. From this point onward I am rerolling skill checks and such. A 26 gives Lucky his free mount. Then Lucky tries to use his mount for cover, a DC15 Ride check. He uses one of his remaining Luck Points to help him -- the roll is a 28, giving Lucky the cover bonus and a Luck Point. With his remaining move action, Lucky draws his wand of CLW. He now has the wand in one hand and his remaining stone in the other.
Marcas attacks twice and misses.
Round 8 Redux: Lucky starts with 3 luck points and is down 17 hp. He rolls his Base AC this round: a 14. He attempts to use his mount for cover, adding two luck points: a 30 earns him cover and an extra luck point. From cover, Lucky uses his wand and cures 2 hp. Lucky's AC until next round is 14 base +4 cover +3 dex +4 wis +1 amulet +1 ring +3 bracers +1 size = 31.
Marcas may choose to act. We now come to the fun part of figuring out how an overrun/grapple works against a mounted foe. Seems to me, based on the Trip rules, that the only way to drag a rider from a mount is with a trip attack, and I can use my Ride skill to oppose it -- in Woldian terms, I can take 10 on my Ride check to obtain my Trip DC, with the +2 military saddle bonus to keeping my seat. Call it a DC21, and you still have to make the usual touch attack first. I do not think you can grapple or overrun a mounted foe. You CAN overrun or grapple the mount, and if successful we treat it as a falling mount, with a forced dismount and a ride check required to prevent 1d6 damage. How does that sound? I am, of course, open to any other interpretation.
So we are halfway through Round 8, with Marcas to act? Sound OK? Lucky is down 15 hp, and Marcas is down 18 hp? Lucky never threw his third stone, and so did not hit for 7 more. He has four luck points.
Sira Nailo Thursday January 8th, 2009 12:50:59 PM
She sighs. "Cedric, why play reined mount as part of this archaic ritual? It is technically an one on one battle of fairness and talent. Doesn't this violate some fundamental rule? Shouldn't the other also be mounted for it to be equal grounds?" She looks back to her nails and checks if they all have been cleaned. Still looking down, "I would like the blood measured and weighed at the end. I suggest when one spills the most blood, that one NOT be allowed to lead. A leader who leads by blood tends to kill his followers too, even if indirectly."
Sir John (Ken M) Thursday January 8th, 2009 1:07:21 PM
Sir John watches the combat intensly, a little disappointed that Lucky needed to use a mount to help himself. He initially agrees to the extended rounds, but after 10 rounds, announces "I think we've had enough combat, don't you all? Glandum had an excellent proposal, where one leads in tactical planning and another in diplomacy. However, I'm not sure who you had in mind, especially with the fact that diplomacy is not a strong point of lucky. On the other hand, we could put it up for a vote and see who get s the majority vote. After all, no one can force us to follow someone we don't want to follow, so this might well fix the problem."
Remembering his duty as a paladin, he adds "Finally, we have a mission to accomplish and worrying about the leader position is taking away from a more crucial issue. There is evil to conquer and I don't want to waste time before handling it."
Unsure of what everyone thinks, he'll step back and listen to feedback.
Marcasthai AC 20 Touch 13, HP 49/74 (SteveK) Thursday January 8th, 2009 1:51:21 PM
ooc: Cayzle, OK we're at round 8 with Lucky down 15 and Marcas down 18.
ooc: fun part of Overrun it is part of a move action! Then Marcas still has a standard action to act. :-)
The large minotaur is grinning and concentrating on this challenging Kayleb until Sir John calls out. Immediately, Marcasthai steps back and comes out of his combative stance, though he still keeps an eye out for Lucky since the halfling may not know all the rules for a Tauric Kayleb. Just to be sure, the minotaur calls out, "The Kayleb Facilitator has called the combat over, and so I will not continue the fight as is the rules and my duty."
It takes a little while for Marcas to get cleaned up and eating a short luncheon before he is ready to continue the walk with the group. "As I had more wounds on me at the cessation of the Kayleb, I will accede the leadership to Lucky. He has proven himself capable. Further, I see Sir John has also proven both wise and honorable as Facilitator, and will accept him as the Second."
Nirith Dahaka and Nekron (StevenVdB) Thursday January 8th, 2009 1:51:59 PM
ooc : Cayzle - I'm curious how to DM a combat with Lucky in it... since your AC is based on luck, how can we all - when we're DM'ing - if our blows connect? Is it feasible for Lucky to roll his luck rolls at the end of every turn so this is the AC used for the DM's turn? This would avoid a whole of of "If the monster hits... jadajadajada"
Lunch (and the Show) is Over (DM SteveK) Thursday January 8th, 2009 1:58:24 PM
OOC: DM forgot that Cedric was WLA Initiate too :-) Cedric (and anyone else who is WLA) was also called by Officer Jerrold and given the same information Marcas had in previous post. :-)
Several of the companions eat and watch the one-minute long battle between Marcasthai and Cap'n Lucky before Sir John calls a halt. Marcas backs off, and the battle is over.
Lunch is also finished up and soon the companions are moving north along the trade road towards the expected Inn where they are sure to find more information.
The two questions that are currently on the minds of most is ...
1) Who is the combat leader for the group? While there are some reservations, with Marcas bowing out, it appears that Cap'n Lucky is the only candidate left.
2) What is the plan once they reach the Inn?
........................
ooc: I'll post arriving at the Inn tomorrow. Just wanted to tie up the loose end of the fight for leader first. :-)
Cap'n Lucky (Cayzle) Thursday January 8th, 2009 2:27:40 PM
And suddenly the combat is over! "Hey! I was just getting warmed up!" says the halfling.
He listens to Sir John and Glandum, who offer the proposal of a battle leader and a diplomat. When Sir John says "Diplomacy is not a strong point of Lucky," the halfling bristles.
"Hey! Who says that I'm not diplomatic! Why, I've had Formal Training! I've got more diplomacy in my pinky fing-- hey! wait a minute! That's a test, isn't it, to see if I respond diplomatically! Well you won't catch me that easily, my wily paladinic friend! Truth to tell, I think I can speak for all sides in this debate when I say that my oratical, planalytical, comradical, and leadershipical talents are unmatched in this group! Besides, no one else has stepped up to take the job! Based on that peerless logic, I accept the proposal! I agree wholeheartedly!"
"Yes, this will be most excellent! Sir Minotaur here can be the Seargeant-General-At-Arms, leading us in all matters martial! Bishop Glamdring can be the Court Chaplain! My own good Tyco of Cedric will of course be the Royal Mounteback."
Lucky pauses to pat the dinosaur and say, "There's a good fellow!"
"And Sir John, I hope you will agree to be the Chargé d'affaires, since you will be in charge of my affairs. And you, sir, the one in the back" -- he points to Speck -- "are you not skilled in minstrelsy? You are the Musician Royale! And with me as King, our potential is limitless! Fear not, as Rulon of the party, I, your majesty -- no wait! -- WE, Your Majesty, King of our Conclave, Rulon of our Ranks, We shall endeavor to serve you, Our people, most well."
The halfling waves his hand, slightly dismissively, at Nirith and Sira. "And you two can be courtiers or sycophants, as you prefer."
"We stand before you most proudly, and now you may kneel before Us, and gaze adoringly upon Us, not standing on ceremony, as the impulse moves you! As your Royal, We thank you."
"Oh! speaking of the Royal We, battle-ing and decree-ing always make Us need to visit the little princes' chamber."
The halfling hops off Cedric and rushes off into the brushes to do his necessaries.
King Culrique (Cayzle) AC15 3d8+5=16 ; 2d8+10=18 ; Thursday January 8th, 2009 2:42:23 PM
The halfling comes back from the loo. "Oh, We almost forgot! The hands of the King are Healing Hands!"
He casts Cure Serious Wounds (spontaneously, over Wind Wall) on Marcas, healing him 16.
"Please, don't thank Us, good Serjeant! We are only doing Our royal duty."
Oh, and he used two CLW spells in the loo. "Do not fear for Us, good subjects. We laid hands on Our Own Person in the privacy of the privvy." (spontaneously, over Entropic Shield and Detect Law, healing himself 18)
"Come now, Our people, We command that the party move forward!"
Nirith Dahaka and Nekron (StevenVdB) Thursday January 8th, 2009 3:55:48 PM
Nirith casts a gentle smile on Lucky, or King Curlique as he seems to name himself now. She says a few simple words and makes a few gestures and suddenly there's a downpour of a good 6 gallons right on Lucky's head! (create water)
"KRAKRAKRAKRA... " Nekron goes...
"Terribly sorry my King but I thought you needed to be cooled quickly! ... now what's your plan for out little quest? You have given it some thought haven't you?!?"
Sir John (Ken M) Thursday January 8th, 2009 4:06:42 PM
Sir John can't help but smile at the new royal highness's (note the small caps) antics and does a half-bow towards him, saying kindly "Yes, your royal highness. Thank you for your generosity in healing our friend."
In spite of his normal formal, solemn behavior, he bursts out laughing when water appears over the royal highness's head. With a chuckle, he goes over to Lucky and says "My friend, or should I say, my leige, I am glad to serve with you. I pity the enemy that encounters your might and power."
When he has a chance, he'll go over to Marcas and while offering his hand in friendship, says, "Good fight my friend and you fought well and honorably. Joshua (pointing to the spackled war charger) and I will be proud to charge into a fight next to you."
He agrees with Nirith's observation and responds, "Yes, what is our next step?"
Glandum Thursday January 8th, 2009 4:41:32 PM
Sitting on the seat of his cart, glandum sits there, shaking his head. What weird people ive hooked myself in with.
Waits for the little fellow with the huge ego to pronounce the groups next move.
Cedric AC 22 HP 77/77 - Deinonychus Form | Quellis (Bear) AC 19, HP 65/65 | Character SheetCurrent Spells (Troy) d20+24=42 ; Thursday January 8th, 2009 5:13:20 PM
Cedric looks over to Sira and gives a warbling chortle. He takes his talon and writes in the dirt so only she can see wiping it away quickly. Sira: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Amuses me"}
When they finally begin to move forward, he continues to look for tracks, his prehistoric senses keenly scanning the ground ahead for any sign of recent trouble.
OOC: Survival / Track: 42 Active Effects: Wildshape: 7 hours Long Strider (extended) 14 hours, SL 1, CL 7: cast in morning. Delay Poison (extended) 14 hours, SL 2, CL 7: cast in morning. Greater Magic Fang (extended) 14 hours, SL 3, CL 7: cast in morning.
King Culrique (Cayzle) AC15 Thursday January 8th, 2009 5:15:49 PM
The king rolls his eyes when he sees that Glandrum, Sir John, and Nirith are all waiting for his orders -- just moments after he gave them!
"We can see that We shall have to use all Our considerable love and patience for Our subjects in order to be an effective leader," he mutters.
"Come, dear followers," he says with a forced grin. "As We just ordered, Let the party move forth!"
"You know, to that place we're going ... Sir John, recall it to Us please ... to that tavern or inn or what-have-you. Let's go there!"
And when the water washes down on him, the King laughs and laughs! He tumbles a quick somersault to fly off the most of the wet. He bows to the witch and says, "Thank you, my dear! Most refreshing after a fight and a trip to the necessary."
Marcasthai AC 20 Touch 13, HP 49/74 (SteveK) Thursday January 8th, 2009 5:40:50 PM
Brushing his long fur to ensure the best possible appearance, Marcus accepts Lucky's healing with a nod and thanks, but doesn't think much of the idea of a self proclaimed king. "Being a king is more than giving orders, and would make those who are nobility angry. Besides, there are rules about how to become a king. I don't like this, Lucky.", he says quietly while petting the long-haired white cat that rests on top of his knapsack. "You are leader, but no more than that."
The minotaur hefts his ranseur and moves down the road.
King Culrique (Cayzle) AC15 Thursday January 8th, 2009 7:22:43 PM
The halfling grins at Marcas. "What's not to like?" the king asks rhetorically. "As a famous wise man once said, 'It's good to be the king.' "
"Come, my friend, don't be so dour! Fair's fair, how about tomorrow YOU can be the king?"
Glandum AC 25/26 HP 73/73 Thursday January 8th, 2009 7:28:18 PM Gidyup, Glandum orders to the mule and the cart lurches forward.
Taking it slow, but steady, neither pushing nor holding it back.
Gauging the people around him. Smirking at the minotaurs' assesnent on the halflings illusion of royalty. Smiling, while humming a lively, traveling tune. Giving the witch a friendly wink, followed up with a smile.
Then, thinking about the upcoming work at hand, and the call for help from the Fixer, Glandum absently rubs the holy symbol dangling on the leather strap hanging around his neck, while thinking a prayer for all those up ahead who are in danger.
Nirith Dahaka and Nekron (StevenVdB) Friday January 9th, 2009 4:14:17 AM
With things settled and the road ahead Nirith is cheerful as they go. Whatever they'll encounter there's no other group she would rather face it with.
Sir John (Ken M) Friday January 9th, 2009 9:59:28 AM
Sir John turns and mounts his steed, reading himself to travel. He checks his weapons, shield, and his mount's armor. Once everyone is prepared, he joins his place in line and follows the group.
"Who wants to take point position? I'd assume it would be who is most stealthy and observant. I'll take 2nd or 3rd position..."
King Culrique (Cayzle) AC15 Friday January 9th, 2009 11:46:57 AM
"Oh, Sir John, fear not! We are not in hostile terrain, nor are we at risk of immediate attack! These are settled, friendly lands. We are more apt to meet farmers and merchants than ogres and wyverns. The person to go first must be the most diplomatic, and seeing as We have formal training as a diplomat, We shall lead the party."
The little Napoleon rides Cedric at the head of the party. Whenever he sees someone in the road coming from the other direction, he hails the stranger in a friendly voice, "What ho! Tell Us, friend, how far to the Wayfarer Inn?"
About a half hour before arriving, Lucky Eddie calls a halt to discuss his plan.
"A party such as ours is one to put a scare into anyone. So let us separate and approach the Inn in pairs. Each pair should arrive a little while after the other, so that it does not seem that we are a team. Just take a seat in the common room and pretend like you don't know the other pairs. We will go first with Tyco. When we all are all there, just follow Our lead."
Sira Nailo Friday January 9th, 2009 12:04:15 PM
The she-drow just smiles moves off with the group, blood spilling leaders in the lead.
"So, whats the gold look like for this mission?" Seems to be her refrain.
The Sourtusk Inn (SteveK) Friday January 9th, 2009 3:06:49 PM Lucky promotes himself to King Curlique and hustles everyone back onto the road, loudly leading the procession towards the anticipated Inn.
Nirith smiles at Lucky, and then douses him with an abrupt downpour with the raven kroaking its amusement.
Sir John also smiles at the halfling's antics and joins in the humor of the moment. The paladin congradulates the halfling and minotaur's mutual prowess and then tries to get people's minds on the mission at hand. Mounting, he looks for a defensive order.
Cedric and Quellis, the matching Large bi-pedal dinosaurs need very little time to get ready and march out with the group. During the march, Cedric keeps an eye out for tracks or other spoor that would indicate trouble. (Track:42)
Marcus accepts Lucky's healing, disagrees with the halfling being called 'king', and marches down the road.
Glandum orders his mule and the cart forward, gauging the people around him and keeping his thoughts to himself, but is easy enough with non-verbal approvals.
Sira moves with the others, but seriously wants to know that this is going to be a PAYING job.
............................
The walk north is easy along the well-maintained road in the comfortable sunlight. Lucky rides Cedric at the head of the party with the others following as they will behind. Whenever a southbound group or a couple farmers in the field are seen, Lucky hails the stranger in a friendly voice, "What ho! Tell Us, friend, how far to the Wayfarer Inn?"
Usually from the fields are just a cheery wave for the courtesy or complete concentration on their own work. However, there are enough merchant and farmers carts coming south that the group is able to find out the Inn is only a half hour away, and the name of the place is the "Sourtusk Inn".
Lucky's cheerful banter also brings out more information... The "Sourtusk Inn" is very close to the Dread border. Farmers come south here to hire help and to bargain with traders that won't go further north towards the Dread. (Local Knowledge Check DC 10: Highlight to display spoiler: {The Dread is a major area of organized undead, but the Cinnamon Valley has been protected from the walking dead by some protection of the dieties.}
...........................
About a half hour before arriving, Lucky Eddie's plan goes into effect. The halfling splits up the party to make it look less a threat as they descend upon the Inn, and the group pairs off to arrive at about 5 minute intervals. Lucky arrives first, shortly followed by the other pairs, and perhaps the halfling's plan has worked... there is certainly no hue-and-cry about seven heavily armed people with a matched pair of large dinosaurs arriving.
The group is able to get a large table in one corner and the mounts are well tended in the stable with the dinosaurs kept away and tied to a large oak tree. The Inn stablemaster makes it clear that carnivores are not welcome in the confines of the stable or paddock.
There are a couple tables of merchants haggling with one another or the odd farmer, one of farmers relaxing, and one of a dozen toughs who hire themselves out for odd jobs and protection to the farmers. The Inn staff is efficient and there doesn't seem to be any immediate problems.
That is, until a young dwarven boy arrives in the Sourtusk Inn. Looking to be about 10 years old, he looks around while getting used to the darker interior. The toughs at thier table look bored, and several call out to the boy in rough humor. "Get yersel a beer, it'll make your beard grow faster!" and "Yer lost, sonny, go on home to yer mommy!" and "Don't make 'em go yet, Thom, cause I bet I can get 'em to do our laundry for a couple coppers!" The men roar with laughter at their own jokes.
King Culrique (Cayzle) AC15 Friday January 9th, 2009 3:37:36 PM
A halfling and a dinosaur walk into a bar. The halfling says to the fellow behind the counter, "Barkeep! A beer for me and one for my pal the dinosaur!"
Glandum AC 25/26 HP 73/73 Friday January 9th, 2009 4:13:02 PM
Stands up, kicking his chair back behind him, causing his shield to fall over onto the floor, while the idiots make their jokes at the boys' expense.
Walking over to the lad, Glandum says: don't mind them my boy, they are just children telling childish jokes that shows nothing but how little their minds be. Then dropping to a knee Glandum looks up at the boy and asks: what brings you here son, and where might your kin be?
*Glandum is still wearing his armor save for his helm and gauntlets, and is still wearing his hammer on its sling, but his shield is back at the table, laying on the ground next to the kicked over chair*
Marcasthai AC 20 HP 72/74 (SteveK) d20+12=18 ; Friday January 9th, 2009 5:26:45 PM
Marcas takes his seat carefully, not at all certain that the bench will take his great weight and in order to make no sudden moves. Food is always good, but wine is the first thing ordered by the large, well-groomed minotaur.
Glandum may be the first one up, but Marcasthai looms behind the dwarf and stares down at the toughs daring them to intervene with the cleric's conversation with the young dwarf. He rolls his shoulders as if to loosen them for action as his black eyes stare at the table of toughs. (Intimidate: 18)
Sir John (Ken M) d20+6=9 ; Friday January 9th, 2009 5:37:41 PM
Sir John shakes his head and thinks to himself, "Starting bar fights is not how I envisioned my day starting."
Noting that Marcus has the intimidation tactic down solidly, he decides upon the diplomatic route. Hopefully the drunk idiots will leave Glandum and Marcus alone. For now, he'll keep his hands ready and near his axe and shield, but try to maintain a peaceful pose.
He tries to single out the leader of the group, and after standing up next to Marcus, in a firm and strong voice he says "Let's keep this peaceful, shall we? We mean no offense and our friend is merely trying to help the young boy. It looks like your drinks are getting low and how about I buy you a round?" (Diplomacy = 9) However, it seems that his distaste for strong liquor may be coming through as he tries to avoid trouble.
Speck (Jonathan) d20+8=15 ; Friday January 9th, 2009 10:01:26 PM
Speck sighs as the battle comes to an abrubt halt. On the other hand, conversation tends towards food, or somewhere where there is promise of some.
Speck is, however, still in doubt as to the leadership. Haflings, 'normal' haflings that is, aren't such braggarts, and certainly aren't self-proclaimed kings.
"Aye, Sir, I'll sing ye a song." Brave Sir Lucky Fought Today. Brave Sir Lucky didn't run away. Brave Sir Lucky Lived to fight another day, To our enemie's dismay!
OOC: Sorry I didn't get this out sooner. Started posting yesterday but got interrupted so many times I lost my train of thought. :(
Bluff 15 Sense Motive DC15 (-5 mod = you really want to believe he's sincere, +0 = you aren't quite sure)
Highlight to display spoiler: Highlight to display spoiler: { You sense that in the last phrase 'to our enemie's dismay', the word 'enemies' was hastily added.}
Speck (Jonathan) Friday January 9th, 2009 10:03:05 PM
Forgot to explain: If you make the DC15 Sense Motive check, read the spoiler, otherwise, well, read it anyway if you want.
Speck understands why the inn is so prosperous and why the whole area is not overrun by the undead from the Dread. (kinda rimes, Undead from the Dread, could be a musical group?) (SteveK: won't tell yet :-)
Upon entering the inn, Speck immediately looks around the room for knooks and crannies, and dark out-of-the-way corners, (Spot d20+5=14) as an instinctual habit for looking for places to hide. (under tables also qualifies as 'out-of-the way' places)
As the tables and chairs are made for larger folk, Speck forgoes attempting to be seated and wanders over to the hagling merchants and listens in on the conversation. (Listen d20+7= 27 N20!)
OOC: depending on the conversation topic, Speck will attempt to enter the conversation casually as a knowledgable person on the 'topic' and throw in some questions about any unusual happenings as of late, ie vanishing caravans, etc. by using Appraise (d20+5=23), or Gather Info (d20+7=9) or other skill method DM feels best appropriate, Bluff? Sense Motive? Just let me know if necessary.
Speck ignores the dwarf boy at first, even the taunting, but when the others of his group step up to defend the boy, Speck prepares himself for a bruhaha.
(where would Speck be in relationship to the bullies? Behind, to the side?)
He picks out who he believes is the toughest and marks him in his mind, (Spot? Sense Motive?) then slides to a dark spot or under a table where he still has visual contact with the bullies.
Hide d20+11 = 27.
Speck (Jonathan) d20+10=11 ; Friday January 9th, 2009 10:40:51 PM
In after thought, the above song probably should not have been a Bluff check but a Perform Check d20+10= 11... oh well, so he had some pastries and his mouth was a bit dry.
Cedric AC 15 HP 63/63 - Human Form | Quellis (Bear) AC 19, HP 65/65 | Character SheetCurrent Spells (Troy) d20+9=13 ; Saturday January 10th, 2009 9:40:31 AM
Before entering the town, Cedric shifts out of form, and goes over to see to Quellis. Giving him the command to 'Stay', he leaves the large brown bear tied tied to the tree. He does however, make sure the ropes are not tied well, enough that Quellis can break it should the need arise. He packs his form armor in Quellis's pack.
He then orders dinner in the inn, bringing out a plate of potatoes for Quellis, carrots and some greens as well if they have it. He doesn't bother trying to explain to the stablemaster that rarely eats meat.
Cedric eats similar, along with some water. Over dinner, he whispers to Sira in Drow: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Strange crew, do you think we're going to have issues with this Halfling?"}
When the boy arrives, he watches the reaction of the crowd with interest, trying to gauge if this is good natured teasing or something more.
OOC: What time of day is it? (DM SteveK: about lunch time) Cedric does not enter town as a Dinosaur, he will never intentionally cause a stir with it. Quellis is a Brown Bear, not a dinosaur. (DM SteveK: Oops! ;-)
Sense Motive on crowd teasing boy: 13
Long Strider (extended) 14 hours, SL 1, CL 7: cast in morning. Delay Poison (extended) 14 hours, SL 2, CL 7: cast in morning. Greater Magic Fang (extended) 14 hours, SL 3, CL 7: cast in morning.
Nirith Dahaka and Nekron (StevenVdB) d20+9=24 ; d20+2=12 ; d20+5=6 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+7=22 ; Saturday January 10th, 2009 1:28:34 PM
Nirith is one of the last ones to enter the Inn... not wearing any armor nor weapons and with more or less the appearance of a beggar there's absolutely nothing that would link her to the armor clad warriors that are seemingly picking a fight.
Nekron perches on her shoulder and observes the Inn more closely. (spot 24 ; listen 12)
Nirith walks over to the Bartended and in a soft voice she says: "Ale please... Selling amulets to ward you from danger and foul undead... interested? I'll be over there in the corner..." and she points towards a darker corner of the Inn.
"KRRAAA" Nekron croaks to the Innkeeper, "Good deal!"
With that being said, Nirith walks over to a darker corner of the Inn and sits with her back towards the wall... waiting... observing... (sense motive: 6 Nat 1 / Spot: 15; Listen: 22)
Sira Nailo Monday January 12th, 2009 6:54:43 PM
The drow doesn't even bother speaking Drow when answering Cedric, "Don't you?" She smirks.
The SourTusk Inn (SteveK) d20+2=18 ; d20+2=17 ; d20+2=9 ; d20+2=19 ; d20+2=16 ; Monday January 12th, 2009 11:04:29 PM Lucky walks in and calls for beer.
Glandum ensures his shield clatters to the floor before moving over and talking to the dwarf-child.
Marcas backs up his dwarven friend with a quiet show of power and threat.
Sir John shakes his head and worries about a bar fight. He decides to be diplomatic and offer the toughs a way out of thier predicament. (ooc: Changing others' attitudes with Diplomacy generally takes at least 1 full minute, so no changing attitude, but the suggestion is still there.)
Speck goes in and immediately checks his exits before wandering over to the merchants and listening in. Highlight to display spoiler: { Speck and Nirith hear that there have been stories of the weakening of the ley lines. Seems the Cinnamon Valley people believe the dieties created bands of uber-magic called 'ley lines' that fence the Dread from the Valley. The talk at tables doesn't tell any horror stories, but enough caution is there that no merchant will go any further north. Speck and Nirith also hear the farmers talking about hiring the group of toughs at the table for protection while they work thier fields. Seems that this is a common precaution this close to the Dread.} When the dwarf boy is accosted by the toughs, Speck prepares himself for a bruhaha.
Cedric shifts out of form, keeps his bear away from the Inn, and then goes in. While eating, he has quiet words with Sira. When the boy arrives, he watches the reaction of the crowd with interest, but is unable to gauge if this is good natured teasing or something more. (ooc: getting a hunch from a social situation will be a DC 20)
Nirith enters last, identifies herself as an interent merchant of amulets and picks her place in an out of the way place. There don't seem to be anyone who is overly eager about amulets against the undead, but the witch is able to pick up some good notes while listening. (ooc: read Speck's spoiler)
Sira smirks and speaks with Cedric. .........................
The toughs startle at the sound of Glandum's shield rattling on the floor and one is certainly worried about Marcas' size, but the leader clearly isn't quailing. However, it does look like they have brains, and the five are in no mood to test thier brawling against five well-armored and armed people. Sir John's offer is quickly taken and the toughs are quieter around thier new beer.
The boy doesn't seem too worried, and rubs his red hair that is cut in a Mohawk. The dwarf-boy wears hand-me-down farmer's clothes, and pinned to his chest is a old and well-crafted silver pin. (Local Knowledge DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { The pin is a "Family pin" designating him as the elder boy in the family. The pin is silver and very old dating back many generations.}
"I'm not afraid", he says with much aplomb, "I was told to look for you. My name is Dugan. I'm supposed to find you and bring you to my mom's farm and help protect it from invasion." The boy empties a small bag on the companions' table, and 5 platinum coins roll out. "This is the entire take from our crops last year, and can be your reward for one day's heroism. Not bad huh?" the boy chimes.
Nirith Dahaka and Nekron (StevenVdB) Tuesday January 13th, 2009 3:07:18 AM
Nirith raizes an eyebrow as she hears the tales and then notices the boy landing an entire take from last years's crop on the table! Looks like it is a lucrative thing to protect people around here!! (On the ohter hand 5 platinum for an entire group of warriors...)
Nirith does not interfere and lets her friends do the talking.
Marcasthai AC 20 HP 72/74 (SteveK) Tuesday January 13th, 2009 8:07:13 AM
Satisfied that Glandum will be able to speak to the boy without interferance, Marcasthai gingerly sits back down and resumes his careful and quiet ways. When the expected food comes to the table, the minotaur carefully sets his long-haired white cat on a chair beside him and ensures the feline has food and drink before beginning his own snack.
Sira Nailo Tuesday January 13th, 2009 10:48:11 AM
Sira slaps her forehead and looks at Cedric. "told you. Didn't I say? Five plat, 50 gold. I swear, I'm going to start looking before I leap headlong into such a *insert slang*." She stops in midword when she sees the boy.
Glandum AC 25/26 HP 73/73 Tuesday January 13th, 2009 12:20:55 PM
Overhearing the others, glandum returns to the table.
He just offered you everything they had to make a living. To pay for food for the family. For seed for next years crops. Yes, I know, they set aside a little but for these people, and especially everything that has been happening to them, that's quite a feat nowadays to save that much money up. But if money is all you care about, then take this too.
Glandum pulls out a pouch and dumps 200 gold coins out on the table.
Count me out on any cut except that gained from the creatures we defeat. I do this for the will of Domi, not to pad my pocket.
Turning to the boy:Dugan, I cannot speak for my other companions, but I will assist you and your family.
After the disposition of the meal, Glandum gathers his belongings rehitches his mule to the cart, offers a seat to Dugan and says: Which way to your home?
*follows Dugans' directions*
Ekim of Arn (Cayzle) AC15 Tuesday January 13th, 2009 8:02:44 PM
The halfling walks up to the boy, and tells him to take back his platinum. "You listen to the padre here. Your treasure is yours, young Dugan fellow. We'll find reward enough on our own, if we are lucky." The halfling winks at Sira. "And I intend to be lucky."
The halfling is wearing a few pieces of jewelry -- ring, necklace, bracelets -- but is of course most distinctive in his soiled pants, embroidered shirt, and top hat. Which he tips to the boy, and bows.
"I'm Ekim of Arn, and these are my friends. They mostly do whatever the heck they want to, and I tell them that I told them to do it. That makes me the leader. And I say we're going to go visit your good mom's farm and see what fate brings us."
"Right, everybody? Let's go then!"
Speck (Jonathan) d20+3=11 ; Tuesday January 13th, 2009 10:34:07 PM
OOC: so much for entering as seperate groups so we aren't seen to 'be together', eh? :)
Local Knowledge DC10: d20+3 = 11 (whew)
Speck, from behind a farmer's chair is not necessarily happy things calmed down and a brawl didn't occur. He always finds 'loose' things in a brawl and he eyes the bully again to see if there is anything he might not miss.
However his contemplation is interrupted as their 'leader' speaks up on their behalf to assist the dwarven boy. Casually exiting the inn with the others, he asks Glandum if it would be ok to ride in the back of the cart.
If Glandum oks it, Speck hops on, and during the trip, tells Glandum what he overheard in the in. (Read Speck's spoiler).
Glandum AC 25/26 HP 73/73 Tuesday January 13th, 2009 10:37:01 PM
nods his head to Speck
Outside the Sourtusk Inn (SteveK) Wednesday January 14th, 2009 12:10:21 AM Nirith keeps her understanding and opinions to herself.
Marcasthai sits back down and resumes eating.
Sira confesses herself disappointed in bleeding-heart heroics that don't pay.
Glandum rebukes the greed of some of his companions and offers them his pouch of money as well. The cleric offers his own services to the dwarf-boy and asks Dugan to lead the way.
Lucky introduces himself as "Ekim" and ensures the platnuim and gold get back to the owners' pouches (Glandum and Dugan), and encourages Sira in being able to find plenty of lucre. The leader accepts the offer and rounds up everyone with a jaunty "Right, everybody? Let's go then!"
Speck, unnoticed by the toughs as part of the dwarf, minotaur, human group (occ: I was reading different, sorry) pops himself back outside and bums a ride from Glandum's cart.
Sir John and Cedric follow the others outside. .............
Outside in the Inn-yard, a Fixer moves off a lounging bench and says, "Ready to go boy." His voice is weathered and tough, this human cleric of Alemi, but looks much like a dwarf. He is short, covered in muscles on muscles, and has a rather large vial of Woldsblood hanging on his neck as a holy symbol.
There must be obvious questions in the air, for the Fixer continues in his weathered voice. "I'm Shod Rivenstone, a Fixer of Alemi. If you agree, you stout fellas are to be the protectors of me and Farmer Thaela's family and property for 24 hours while I rebuild and set the ley lines of the farm. Those ley lines keep out the Dread Undead you understand?"
"See," the boy Dugan pipes up, "The Ley lines are totally busted at mom's place. Thaela's Farm is what its called. The Dread have been raiding for a week now."
The Fixer Shod adds in, "The lines must be rebuilt immediately before they totally fail or Thaela's farm will be razed to the ground, her family killed, and added to the Undead Army of the Dread. Will you provide aid in their time of need?"
Glandum AC 25/26 HP 73/73 Wednesday January 14th, 2009 2:05:37 AM Im in.
Nirith Dahaka and Nekron (StevenVdB) Wednesday January 14th, 2009 4:10:34 AM
Once everyone has left the Inn, Nirith too casually exits...
Outside she overhears the Fixer's mission and nods: "Undead heh... yuk... Well guess we're in!"
Nirith will trail the Fixer and Dugan as they head back to the Farm.
Cedric AC 15 HP 63/63 - Human Form | Quellis (Bear) AC 19, HP 65/65 | Character SheetCurrent Spells (Troy) Wednesday January 14th, 2009 7:45:57 AM
"In fairness, she did indicate she would be unhappy investigating farms without what she considers to be acceptable compensation." says the druid, making a nod at Sira. "There are few who truly speak what they mean, so much is coached in politeness and politics. It may be wise to learn to value that."
"But come, there will be treasures on these undead most likely Sira."
He then turns to Shod. "Have you been practicing your craft long Shod? My understanding is a fixer's path requires great focus and will. And to actually fix Ley lines, you must be quite accomplished in your path."
His voice becomes quite serious. "Perhaps you can describe our role more explicitly. I suspect your repair will require all your focus, and we are to guard you while you work and keep you from interruption? Are the undead drawn to the broken Ley lines? Will they sense your repair and try to stop it, or will they simply be present? And what support can we expect from you before hand? A few of your spells may make a huge difference to our success."
OOC: Long Strider (extended) 14 hours, SL 1, CL 7: cast in morning. Delay Poison (extended) 14 hours, SL 2, CL 7: cast in morning. Greater Magic Fang (extended) 14 hours, SL 3, CL 7: cast in morning.
Marcasthai AC 20 HP 72/74 (SteveK) Wednesday January 14th, 2009 10:08:15 AM
Outside, Marcas carefully ensures his white persian, Khleo, is situated within her pocket-nest of the minotaur's backpack before he shoulders his ranseur and listens to the Fixer. It takes him a little while to understand that the fast talking Lucky has yet another name, and he shakes his head in bemusement.
"I am Marcasthai, Hand of Imod, and I also will protect you."
The minotaur nods at the rightness of the mission and nods again at the wise words of Cedric. "Say what you mean. Good advice."
Sir John (Ken M) Wednesday January 14th, 2009 1:25:23 PM
(Sorry for missing the last few posts. My PC died, so I've had to get a loaner from the seminary. Dell Customer service is a joke.... Should have stuck with HP)
Sir John responds in a similar way to the request and says "Yes, I will also help watch over the farm. If evil rears its ugly head, I'll there to remove it. My name is Sir John and you have my word of honor as my pledge."
It appears that the others have asked relevant questions regarding the situation, and he'll add "What types of undead do you suppose we'll face? I want to be prepared."
As they reach the outside, he goes over to his horse and feeds him some more food. He checks Joshua's barding, making sure all is secure. He also whispers gently and informs him of their mission.
Once everyone is ready to depart, Sir John will mount Joshua and prepare to depart.
Ekim of Arn (Cayzle) AC15 d20+2=8 ; d20+5=14 ; Wednesday January 14th, 2009 5:52:53 PM
OOC: Skill Checks! Note to my friends -- stand within 20 feet of me for a +1 on all skill checks, saves, and attacks!
Untrained Know Local check: nope. Trained Know Planar check to know something about Ley Lines: 14 - not too shabby.]
Ekim of Arn grins and reaches out to grab the fixer's hand and pump it strongly up and down. "A Fixer, huh?" the halfling asks. "Does that mean you can help me get my daily fix? I can't live without my daily five minute fix!"
The halfling laughs uproariously, no matter how the Fixer replies. "Ha ha ha! That's just a little of what I like to call 'humor' for you. I know you dwarf types got no 'sense' of 'humor.' " The halfling makes air quotes motions with his fingers when he says "sense" and "humor." He continues, "But don't worry, I got plenty enough for both of us!"
Now, let's get the names out of the way. I'm Ekim of Arn, and my people here are Master Marks-On-Thighs, the Minotaur; Father Gland-glum, a 'dwarf,' like yourself, what gots no 'sense' of 'humor' like yourself; Sir John, who always has a good idea about this or that; North Dakota, and I'll intorduce you to her closer in a sec; Sira, a mercenary who would rip out and sell her own heart of gold if she could figure out how to do it and survive; and the Rest."
He does not actually name "the Rest" -- just kind of waves over there. "These lengthy intros are making my fingers tired. Plus I would actually have to scroll back up and see who's who."
"Anyhoo, we'll give you all a hand. But moving Ley Lines -- ain't that witchwork? Well, you know we got us a witch, too -- that's North Dakota over here." He walks closer to Nirith. "She'll be a right good help I guess. So we are all set. I guess you're lucky you found us to lend a hand! Lucky! Get it?"
"Did I mention that I'm the king of the group? They do what I say, sometimes, and right now I say we follow this Fix-It fellow to Mom's Farm! Come on Dugan, want to ride a dinosaur? Hey! Where's Tyco!?"
Ekim is either unaware or pretends to be unaware that Cedric is Tyco.
[OOC: Remember that if you want the +1, you have to genuinely wish Ekim well. I'm just making you work for your +1! LOL!]
Sira Nailo Wednesday January 14th, 2009 7:20:40 PM
The drow looks on. "I do hate undead." She rolls her eyes. "And with any luck, I'll get to prove myself right in yet another shipwreck of adventure." She smirks. "Dealing with humans is always so emotionally draining."
Walk to the Farm (SteveK) Wednesday January 14th, 2009 9:37:34 PM Glandum is succint in his willingness.
Nirith casually exits and trails the Fixer, Dugan, and the group as they head to the Farm.
Cedric defends Sira, noting that few truly speak what they mean. He then encourages Sira with stories about undead and guarded treasure.
Marcasthai introduces himself and praises Cedric's wisdom.
Sir John also agrees to the mission and asks for some details about the undead.
"Ekim of Arn" exuberantly introduces the group and is all ready to follow this Fix-It fellow to Mom's Farm.
Sira rolls her eyes and confesses her hatred of undead and her hope for some luck.
Speck quietly follows.
..........................
The Fixer, Shod, smiles at the group and openly grins at the mendicant. "It is good to meet you and yours, Ekim, and I'm glad you will help good Thaela."
Other answers move from his mouth as the group heads north in the afternoon sunlight. "Yes, my path does require great focus and will. I am confident that I will be able to repair and reset the ley lines if I focus and am undesturbed. With that, I will not be able to provide your defenses any benefit. You must provide me the benefits in order to protect these good people."
"Drawn to the ley lines? No. They are coming to the ley lines to destroy them and then raid into Cinnamon Valley for bodies and sow fear. You must stop them and I must repair the protections."
"I don't know the undead, but since they have attacked every night for the last seven, I will guarantee your services will be required. From descriptions from Thaela, they will be zombies, ghouls, ghasts, wights, or some other fleshy embodied undead for the initial assault."
......................
It takes three hours walk to make it to Thaela's Farm. The Fixer and Dugan seem used to walking and are not tired as the group passes a pair of stone pillars with "Thaela's Farm" carved in Dwarven, Hmaman, and Common. In front of the farm's main house in the distance, there stands the figure of a healthy dwarven woman, waiting for the group.
Speck (Jonathan) d20+3=13 ; Wednesday January 14th, 2009 10:05:19 PM
Speck watches from his place in back of Glandum's cart, wondering if the hafling leader is a real hafling or some polymorphed something or other into hafling form.
"Sigh," he expresses loud enough for Glamdum to hear. "That introduction show would be hard to beat," he says with a hint of irony. "Although in my years in the circus (OOC: updated Speck's Background on his CS) I've been the Ring Master numerous times and am good with intros."
On the trip to Dungan's house, Speck contemplates what kind of undead they'll have to face and searches his memory for any stories of weaknesses and protections against them.
Knowledge d20+3=13 +1 (luck) = 14
Glandum AC 25/26 HP 73/73 Thursday January 15th, 2009 3:48:06 AM He can keep the undead busy with his words while the rest of us send em back to hades where they belong. I don't think he could be quiet for more than five minutes without his head exploding. Glandum remarks non chalantly to Speck.
To Speck while in the cart traveling: was thinking about training to be what they call a Undead Hunter. Guess this mission will see if I have the mettle to take on that journey. I look forward to the challenge.
Drives his cart up the path to the house, stopping a good 20 or 30 feet from the dwarf woman, close to barn. After stopping and setting the brake, he ties the reigns of the mule to a post after climbing down from the cart. Then, dusting himself off, he pulls out his skin, takes a long draw from it, wiping what spillled on his beard and chin with the sleeve of his tunic, then heads towards who is obviously Thaela and waits for introductions to be tossed by the Grand Poobah.
Sir John (Ken M) Thursday January 15th, 2009 9:41:49 AM
As they approach the house, Sir John looks around and gauges the farm, the neighboring woods, potential sites where undead may attack and/or the group may defend best, etc. He also tries to identify good places for him to fight mounted, as well as ambush sites.
He greets the Thaela and graciously introduces himself. "It is an honor to meet you madam. We will do our best to protect your farm and you can depend on us."
Finally, he dismounts Joshua and lets him rest for a few moments. He then waits for the rest of the group to make their introductions.
Nirith Dahaka and Nekron (StevenVdB) Thursday January 15th, 2009 10:23:24 AM
Nirith frowns upon hearing what they are up against... a horde of Undead!... geee... makes you wonder what in the name of the seventh star cluster she's doing here?!?
Undead are not subject to Non-Lethal damage and euhm... nirith does only that :-/
Keeping up appearances Nirith shrugs her shoulders and says: "Undead huh? Oh well we've seen far worse than that..."
(ooc: hitting my head on the keyboard multiple times for being such an &é&é&'( to stay with non-lethal...)
Sira Nailo Thursday January 15th, 2009 12:17:23 PM
"Undead. Good, at least I'll be able to enjoy my work this time around." She smiles at Cedric. "See, this is what I've trained for." The drow actually looks genuinely happy for once, no pretense at all.
Ekim of Arn (Cayzle) AC15 Thursday January 15th, 2009 1:50:54 PM
"Fighting undead?!? Fighting undead! That will be great! We will have chased away the tiny zombie pests, and freed the pipe-like ruins of the carnivorous flower-creatures. Turtles will have been falling from the sky! And then I will commission a fantastic work of art to commemorate my victory! An fantastically unflattering work of art! And I will put it on T-shirts! And make tons of gold selling it to the masses! And the artwork will look something like this!"
Ekim is so caught up in his new T-Shirt scheme that he forgets to introduce himself to the lady dwarf, although he does show her the sketches he makes in the dirt and asks her if she would buy such a shirt, and what she thinks would be a reasonable price.
Marcasthai AC 20 HP 72/74 (SteveK) d20+7=13 ; Thursday January 15th, 2009 10:13:52 PM
Marcas stoically marches along, his ears becoming used to the buzzing of the incessantly talking Lucky. Whenever he thinks he can't take anymore, he reaches up and strokes the fur of the white cat and is able to calm down.
At the farm, Marcas also looks around, looking for any undead that may be lurking about. (Spot: 13)
Speck (Jonathan) Thursday January 15th, 2009 10:24:27 PM
With the cart now parked, Speck hops down and scans the environs. "I wonder where the fight will be," he mumbles to himself as he heads to the front of the house.
Expecting the 'worst' from their leader, he hums a tune as he goes.
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