Spot checks -- DM JIM Monday November 30th, 2009 7:51:31 PM
I don't usually ask for spot checks unless it's in battle, it kinda gives away if someone is sneaking about, etc... during roleplay.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 d20+5=20 ; d20+4=10 ; Monday November 30th, 2009 8:18:42 PM
Being a bit nervous about the brain eating monster, Maikill keeps a wary eye and ear open
Listen 20 Spot 10
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+7=13 ; d20+7=16 ; Monday November 30th, 2009 8:35:14 PM
Beri turns toward the the party members that grew up in Mudtown and whispers softly.
I can probably pick the lock on the store without a problem, but if I am breaking in I would rather do it while it's dark. Besides, there is no point in waiting and giving some petty thief the opportunity to wander off with possible clues.
Beri leans against the wall of the closest building, the back of his head firmly against the wall. He is much more concerned about the wrong people spotting them if they try to break in than he is about the monster, but he clearly doesn't want to make it easy for someone wanting to gnaw on his skull.
Listen-13 Spot-16
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20=7 ; d20+4=14 ; Monday November 30th, 2009 8:41:33 PM
Suddenly overcome by a sense of cautiousness, the blond cleric takes a defensive stance. It was as if Gargul was trying to warn him to be more cautious, a warning he. didn't expect would come a second time. Carefully Bosk scans the area and listens for movement.
Listen d20=7+3=10 Spot d20+4=14
Breaking into Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Tuesday December 1st, 2009 4:31:38 AM
ooc: I've got some saying yes, most saying no. What will it be? LMK and I'll post the turn.
Grendel (Jay) AC:15/10/15 HP 13/13 d20+3=13 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+3=7 ; Tuesday December 1st, 2009 8:45:17 AM
Grendel nods to the rogues. "Let's not waste this opportunity. You three get in there and see what you can find. Maybe a spellcaster with a magic detection spell should go in with them... might find what we're looking for quicker if it happens to be magical? We'll wait out here and stand guard. Call if you need help."
With that Grendel will actively scan the surroundings.
========================= Spot: 13 Listen: 14
If Grendel is selected to go into the shop with the rogues, she'll cast detect magic and search the area if nothing shows on her magic. Search: 7
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 d20+5=17 ; d20+4=11 ; Tuesday December 1st, 2009 10:22:38 AM
Maikill backs up against the building so nothing can surprise him from behind.
"I guard here, nothing come in after you."
His axe raised, Maikill continues to scan his surroundings.
Listen 17 Spot 11
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells Tuesday December 1st, 2009 12:42:00 PM I will go into the shop as well. If there happens to be someone already in the shop, I should be able to hold them off until Maikill can rejoin us. I would recommend at least one sharp eyed rogue enter the shop and one stay out here with Maikill to look for trouble.
ooc: Is there a way we can find out what happened to Xeron's face, or would that cause issues with metagaming? That's up to Xeron. -- DM Jim
Breaking into Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Tuesday December 1st, 2009 7:59:23 PM
ooc: which rogue will try to find traps (I'll make the roll) and pick the lock?
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+9=11 ; Tuesday December 1st, 2009 8:54:14 PM
After a quick discussion with the other rogues Beriothian determines that he has the highest lock picking skill and volunteers to tackle the lock. He examines the lock for a moment looking for any signs that the lock has been tapered with, and makes a mental note of the most likely traps that could be set for this particular lock. He removes two slender instruments from his case of thieves' tools and steps up to the door. He takes a deep breath as he slides the tools into the door... the moment his pick slides in a slight frown crawls across his face as it becomes clear to him that this lock is of a different design than first appeared.
open door = 11
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20+3=12 ; d20+4=17 ; Tuesday December 1st, 2009 10:30:17 PM
As the rogues decide who will work on the door, Bosk peeks i through the window (just in case a spot check did not cover this.) If the rogue / rogues fail (depending on how many tries we get) Bosk will listen at the door to determine if anyone is on the other side before attempting to break the door down.
listen = d20+3=12 (Unless I can take 20) Spot = d20+4=17
Breaking into Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 1:28:48 AM
Looking about to see if they're being watched, the nameless group moves back behind Black Harris' and Beri attempts the task of picking the lock--but first he makes sure that there aren't any traps. His search ends in him finding a small strip of parchment, about 1/4" wide by 2" long that is adhered to the top of the door frame and to the door itself. There is arcane writing on it, but in the dark it is impossible to decipher--a light would be needed to read it since it is concealed in the shadows of the door frame, but any light would give away the nameless groups' presence. Beri conjectures that if the door was opened, the strip of paper would be torn in half.
Bosk attempts to look into the shop through the window, but finds the thick shades are drawn closed and he cannot make out anything in the darkness within. The windows are also covered in ornate iron bars to ward off thieves on this first level and on the second level where Black Harris' most likely lived.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 3:16:42 PM
The blond cleric takes in the situation for a moment. At least this means it is less likely for someone to be inside. I suggest someone picks the lock, but keeps the door closed. We can then try to use something heavy, like my shield, to push the door open after we have moved safely away. What do you all think? Proceed now or wait to tomorrow when we have more spells and risk someone else getting in first? I think we should try now, but it is a risk.
Grendel (Jay) AC:15/10/15 HP 13/13 Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 4:25:14 PM "Maybe one of you could just cut some of the wood from the door that the magical paper is attached to, and disarm the trap. If our friends can't open it, eventually someone will come along with the skills to do so or will just smash a window and start looting. Either way, we're out our chance to secure the item if it's in there if we don't act now. If it goes off and doesn't instantly kill you I'm pretty sure I can keep you alive... probably." Grendel says with a smirk.
It's not everyday a priestess of flower is thinking of ways to break into a place...
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 4:31:00 PM
Xeron watches and listens in silence.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d20+5=24 ; d4=3 ; d20+4=7 ; Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 4:57:43 PM
Valla shrugs his shoulders and shakes his head as everyone decides to break into the abanded shop this night; By all means.... he whispers; keeping an eye out for anything at all; His sharp elven eyes, see through the darkness without any trouble;
I cannot detect magic this night; nor can I help with this door in any way. If the door is trapped and one of you cannot disarm it; lets go through a window and open the door from the inside; I believe Bosk would be the only one having trouble getting through the window, maybe Grendel and Maikill. He shifts his stance and looks around again; the elf is getting paranoid, In any case, I think we need to hurry; get inside this place, or get back to the inn. Standing here isn't a grand idea..
Spot: 1d20+5=24 Listen: 1d20+4=7 Ignore D4 roll;
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 5:08:39 PM
Maikill edges a bit away from the door as Grendel suggests that the trap could potentially be deadly.
"I die too many times this week, maybe the box is not important."
Maikill stands guard about 10 feet from the door and will wait to see what the group decides.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20+4=11 ; d20+4=8 ; d20=19 ; d20+3=12 ; Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 6:14:34 PM
Bosk quickly scans the area for an approaching guard or enemy (spot=11) before he searches the window for a similar piece of parchment that might trap the window. Search (d20=19) If there is no trap and the group wishes for the Horned Cleric to beak in through the window and/or bars, Take 20 I assume it will make little noise until the metal breaks) (or strength check=12
Ignore the double click on d20+4, only meant to press it once for a spot check.
Breaking into Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 6:42:04 PM
As the group decides what to do, Bosk takes a suggestion from the group and tries out the window bars, but even with his strength, he cannot budge them free whatsoever.
ooc: Sanji's player is out. He's in retail and only has access at work and with the holidays coming, it was becoming too much for him to work and post. Sanji will stick around for tonight, then probably leave.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 10:01:41 PM
ooc: Sanji opens the door?
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 10:14:27 PM
Beri leans his head against the wall and trys to act casual while preparations are made to break the door down.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 11:37:29 PM
(Bosk nominates Sanji, and offers to hold her gold for her so she is less burdebed :b...just kidding. That would. Be a bit out of character.)
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Thursday December 3rd, 2009 9:15:13 AM
OOC: Let's be heroes, not ruffians! ================================================================================= Xeron finally moves out of his stupor and decides to give a shot at disarming the trap. (disable device is +8 as I cannot seen to get the doc to publish).
If he survives, he will try to open the lock (+8 open locks).
================================================================================= OOC: That stinks for Sanji. We are down to 4 from the original 8. Hard to create a group atmosphere when characters are always coming in and out.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20=16 ; d20+3=13 ; d20+4=24 ; Thursday December 3rd, 2009 10:18:27 AM
As bosk continues his search, this time looking an alternate way to enter the building, he looks up as Xeron approaches the lock. Realizing what Xeron is about to attempt, Bosk encourages everyone to stand back and take cover incase the wost should happen. As he himself takes cover, he keeps an careful look out for anyone spying on them or who might have heard him working on the bars or be drawn to the location by Xeron doing his work.
ooc: Is Sanji retireing, or will sanji be back after the Holidays? Either way we'll miss you.
Breaking into Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Thursday December 3rd, 2009 12:12:10 PM
Set upon the task, Xeron attempts to remove the piece of paper from the door jamb, but instead he manages to rip it in half. Waiting for the pain subsequent to unsuccessfully disarming a trap, it never comes. Xeron opens his eyes to find he is unharmed and nothing happened. His attempts at picking the lock also prove unsuccessful.
The rest take up guard while Bosk has a look around and but see's no other place of easy ingress.
Those with sharp eyes note that from the back of Black Harri's place, there is an open area, then they understand why as an errant breeze brings the smell of a pig wallow nearby. In the near pitch black night, the nameless group is shrouded in darkness, barely able to make out each other. The sounds of activity, mostly nearby taverns, drifts on the evening breeze--all else is silent, perhaps for fear of the braineater, the streets are completely empty.
Breaking into Black Harris' place -- DM JIM d20+6=15 ; Thursday December 3rd, 2009 12:13:53 PM
In an effort to help the nameless group, Sanji takes a crack at the lock, but finds she also cannot open it.
Grendel (Jay) AC:15/10/15 HP 13/13 Thursday December 3rd, 2009 2:01:42 PM
Grendel sighs with disappointment as the lock refuses to work for our group of rogues. Thinking a bit about the awkward situation they have found themselves in Grendel asks, "Just to be clear... we're breaking in to find a puzzle box or some evidence... NOT to loot the place right?"
As long as we're mostly agreed that we're going to safeguard these goods until they can be claimed, then Grendel will continue along this line of reasoning that we need to get into this shop tonight. "Bosk and Maikill... level that door. I've kept a mending spell prepared just for this kind of work... hopefully you can leave it mostly in one piece so I can repair it. I've also got a spare 'detect magic' enchantment ready to use today if we can get inside."
Grendel will take a moment to cast and renew her boon of 'Shield Other' on Maikill. "Don't go hurting yourself now..." she says to Maikill and Bosk in jest.
============================ Only lasts an hour per cast. Luckily I can cast it as often as I like. =)
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 d20+5=24 ; Thursday December 3rd, 2009 2:25:19 PM
Maikill nods at Grendel's suggestion.
"You save my life, I do what you say. Bosk, we go together or just me?"
Maikill will rush the door with Bosk if there is room, if there isn't then he will rush it alone.
Strength check 24 to break door
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20+3=14 ; Thursday December 3rd, 2009 3:15:07 PM
It is up to the DM. If the door is big enough, Bosk will assist. If not, he will offer to hold his shield over Maikill / over the parchment paper to try to shield him.
Breaking into Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Thursday December 3rd, 2009 3:53:05 PM
As Bosk is thinking about whether the doorway is wide enough to help Maikill break the door down, the aforementioned half-orc barrels through the door with a thunderous crash, splintering the doorjamb and the wood pole that barred the door from the inside--when finesse fails, brute strength wins the day. Search, spot and listen rolls please :)
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 d20+5=24 ; d20+4=24 ; d20=6 ; Thursday December 3rd, 2009 3:58:35 PM
Maikill staggers to a stop just inside the door, surprised that he actually broke the door open.
"I thought I just break shoulder, not door." he says with a crooked smile.
he steps to the side, allowing the others to enter the shop.
Listen 24 Spot 24 Search 6
Breaking into Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Thursday December 3rd, 2009 4:01:03 PM
OOC:
I'd like to say I very much appreciate you guys sticking with the game. I'm trying to make it more character driven in this module--a bit more character exposition, but I've had to make some changes because of characters coming and going, so it's been delayed slightly. But fear not, we'll all find out soon why Bosk likes wearing a kilt and how Xeron learned to mix drinks behind his back, standing on one foot and whistling a marching tune :)
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Thursday December 3rd, 2009 4:05:00 PM
OOC: I enjoy the game, and know we will come together as a group. Maybe even getting a name. Meanwhile, why don't we recruit Lyle Allred to play in this game. He used to play in Cinnamon Valley with me, and recently was in Uncharted until he had to take a walk-about. He is now back to computer access and is a good player.
Grendel (Jay) AC:15/10/15 HP 13/13 d20+3=6 ; d20+3=13 ; Thursday December 3rd, 2009 4:49:15 PM
Grendel keeps her eyes outside the shop as some of the others check out the inside. At least, she will until she is called to detect magic. Taking stock of the door, she'll make sure it can lock/unlock from the inside without a key (like a deadbolt or something) before casting mending on the parts of the door frame Maikill busted. ================= Listen: 6 Spot: 13 Cast 'Mending' on the broken parts of the door frame.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20+3=20 ; d20+4=9 ; d20=11 ; Thursday December 3rd, 2009 4:51:20 PM
Bosk quickly looks around and listens for trouble, paying particular attention to where the parchment had been and trying to determine if it was torn or had any effect. If the area is deemed safe, he will enter the store and begin the searching for the puzzle box.
Listen d20+3=20 Spot d20+4=9 Search d20=11 (If it is safe and we are not interrupted can take 20?)
ooc: finales started today, however Monday life gets easier. I didn't know the kilt was public knowledge...
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 d20=8 ; d20=20 ; d20+8=23 ; Thursday December 3rd, 2009 7:55:03 PM
Xeron looks at the broken door and the massive half-orc. "I am nothing more than a fly compared to these guys. They could take me down in a second. Actually I am surprised than stand by me and did not ask me to take a hike. I cannot even open a door. I am utterly useless to them. They must be good people to stick with someone as useless as me "
He enters the room and does not hear anything (Listen: 1d20 = 8). However, his eyes are quite keen in that room (Spot: 1d20 = 20). He start searching for things, feeling positive he will find a thing or two. (search: 1d20 + 8 = 23).
When Grendel asks about stealing versus searching he replies "Don't worry my excellency. My stealing days are over for now and the rest of the group are all reputable good people. And trust me, I am a liar. "
He looks at the priestess and winks.
Breaking into Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Friday December 4th, 2009 12:59:22 PM
Inside the mercantile store, the group is faced with abject darkness. Only a faint sliver of light from a waning moon filters through the broken doorway and provides just enough light for those without darkvision to avoid any obstacles in their path. The heavy scent of old pipesmoke permeates the store--it's grimy soot covering some of the older items that haven't sold in some time. After a careful search, and keeping an eye out for any intruders that may have been there before them, Maikill is the first in the group to notice on one of the back shelves a wooden square that matches the description of the puzzle box. Bosk confirms the find and examines it as closely as he can in the faint moonlight. About six inches square, the box looks to be made of fine mahogany with a vibrant grain running throughout it. There is no obvious means to open it as it appears to be seamless in the low level light.
After examining the remains of the door, Grendel surmises it would take three mending spells to fix it: one for the door jamb, one for the door lock, and one for the wooden post that barred the door from the inside. However, even if she did repair the wooden post, there would be no way to drop it into place unless they stayed inside for the night, or left by the front door. Undoubtedly if they could break in, then a group or individual would attempt to do so in the future and loot the place--of which the inventory is probably worth several thousand gold pieces in value, so it remains unclear at this time what the nameless group plans on doing with Black Harris' place. Also, the upstairs remains unsearched.
A light breeze blows outside as the streets remain clear due to the fear of the roaming braineater--but then again, taverns do close sometime and some people do their best work only at night.
Grendel (Jay) AC:15/10/15 HP 13/13 d20+3=17 ; Friday December 4th, 2009 1:40:22 PM "All right, we've got the puzzlebox... nice find Maikill. Per Mud-town's ways this shop has 3 days from the death of it's owner before it can be looted. I say we protect the shop in that time, use the upstairs area to rest and then decide how to leave it once the 3 days are past and I've completely repaired this door." She'll then cast a mending spell on the wooden post so we can bar the door from the inside. Hopefully there will not be any external sign of the door's broken status from outside the shop.
She'll also examine the puzzlebox using her darkvision.
================= Assuming that the guy died yesterday, we've got 1 night of guard duty here. Sure beats paying out the nose for a stay at the Inn, and should be relatively as safe... relatively. =)
Search check: 17
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 d20+5=7 ; d20+4=24 ; d20=15 ; Friday December 4th, 2009 2:43:37 PM
Twice now he has done something useful instead of dropping to the ground bleeding. It feels good, actually much better than bleeding.
"I look hard, remember what they say about box."
he says beaming.
"You want me look upstairs, see if safe?"
Maikill makes his way towards the stairs, and will go up if it is agreed upon.
listen 7 spot 24 search 15
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Friday December 4th, 2009 2:44:17 PM
Xeron grimaces at Grendel's suggestion "Why should we stay in this nasty place and protect the place from being looted? It is none of our business. We are not taking anything, other than the puzzle box. Why should we worry if it gets looted? The merchant has no heir. "
He stops, hoping other will agree with his logic. If not, he will go with the group decision.
Grendel (Jay) AC:15/10/15 HP 13/13 Friday December 4th, 2009 3:36:56 PM "Because if there is no heir, we'll be in the prime spot to... keep others from being injured by fighting over these goods. We will safely see to their sale and reinvest the money in our operations to provide security to passing merchants." Grendel says to Xeron... then coughs and smiles.
"Besides... it's late and I don't want to waste 10 gold at the Inn a second night in a row. This place is as good as any."
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Friday December 4th, 2009 4:01:16 PM
Maikill nods at Grendel's words
"Grendel good, she help me. Now she help other people she not even know. I stay here with her."
Maikill then heads towards the stairs
"I go look upstairs now. See if safe."
listen, spot and search in previous post
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20+3=18 ; d20+4=10 ; d20=12 ; Friday December 4th, 2009 5:22:23 PM
After examining the puzzle box for a while, Bosk returns his attention to securing the groups location. I suggest that we all stay in pairs for a while, at lease until we have the building secured. Also, keep an eye out to see if anyone can find something we can use to temporarily bar the door. In the morning I can assist Grendle in mending it, if she would like. Aftering seeing Maikill head upstairs, the horned cleric asks if one of the rouges would like to accompany him or Maikill, and then heads towards the back of the building and checks that everything is secure. After he is finished with the lower level he will take a look back where the smell of pig wallow was coming from. While walking throughout the shop the cleric pays paticular attention to what goods are kept where.
listen=d20+3=18 spotd20+4=10 genericd20=12 (for examining the box, should that be search, use device, use magic device, Int?)
Inside Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Friday December 4th, 2009 5:24:55 PM Maikill cautiously ascends the single flight of stairs, ever wary of any traps or fiends hiding in the shadows. A quick jump here, a crouch then roll there, the half-orc clears the top level of the abode. He finds three bedrooms: The master bedroom is large and very messy--obviously the room of a bachelor; the second room served as guest bedroom, was spartan in it's furnishings and looked never to have been used; the last bedroom was furnished as if a small girl had once lived there long ago--the shelves holding her dolls and the room furnishings were all covered in heavy dust.
As Maikill passed the barred windows of the small room, he paused momentarily as he caught sight of someone standing in the large open backyard of the store-- barely noticeable in the faint moonlight. Squinting, because he thought he saw something that resembled a frail, gaunt, hairless human with bulging yellow eyes, Maikill looked closer as he moved to the window. It was his mother.
Wearing a long pale blue dress with a white apron tied about her waist, Long rows of razor sharp teeth bared themselves as she inhumanly smiled at her son--in her right hand she held a bloody handaxe. Then under cover of darkness she ran away, the image of her yellow eyes still burned into Maikill's mind as she disappeared into the night.
Inside Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Friday December 4th, 2009 5:32:58 PM
Downstairs Bosk carefully examined the puzzle box, remembering as a child that his father delighted in such things, ciphers and whatnot, then the Taur popped out a small square peg of the box. It still remained stuck to the box, but where he had pushed, a peg on the opposite side had popped out--that was as far as he could get with it.
Inside Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Friday December 4th, 2009 5:40:03 PM Grendel smiles in satisfaction at the mending job she did, making sure that the treble locks and wooden bar hold the back door fast. Seeing Bosk progress with the puzzle box, she also takes a moment to examine it. With the backdoor closed and locked, there is no light in the room now, but thankfully with her darkvision she doesn't have a problem. Make an Int check for the puzzle box
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+7=19 ; d20+7=13 ; d20+3=22 ; Friday December 4th, 2009 7:13:22 PM
Beriothian makes his rounds across the dusty house, his eyes closely examining the possible entry points into the house to make sure they are all secure. Upon returning to the main room he scans the shelves for anything that may be useful in guarding the shop while they attempt to "keep others from being injured by fighting over these goods." When he returns he sees that Bosk has made some progress with the puzzle box. Wow, great job Bosk. I wonder what will happen when we solve the puzzle. Mind if I give it a try?
Listen-19 Spot-13 Puzzle Box-22
ooc: I tried to post last night but I kept getting a error that the page was not found.
The website was down I think for a few hours -- Dm Jim
Inside Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Friday December 4th, 2009 9:31:51 PM
ooc: just so everyone knows, while inside the shop, with the windows and door closed, it is pitch black. Only those with darkvision can see in there, which means at the moment, Beri cannot examine the puzzle box accurately.
Inside Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Friday December 4th, 2009 9:38:21 PM "You know," Sanji begins to suggest, "If we can hold this place for the next few days, we could claim it as our headquarters. We could sell off all this stuff for half price in a day and with a little spiffying up, it could be a nice place. The front door looks to be quite sturdy with it's five locks and the back could use a little work to reinforce it against any further break-in's. What'cha think?"
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Friday December 4th, 2009 10:27:06 PM
ooc: can we light a candle without being detected? If so, I would like to light one of my candles and try the box (I have low light vision, so it only takes a little light.)
Don't know until you try :) -- Dm Jim
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Friday December 4th, 2009 11:50:03 PM
Moving towards the window to better see who is outside, Maikill stops suddenly.
"Mommy, it is me. I come find killer, Mommieeeeeeeeeee!"
the scream escapes his lips as the apparition bares its horrible teeth and shows the bloody axe.
"mommy, why you haunt me?"
Maikill backs away from the window. Grabbing a doll from the shelf he slumps down to the floor, stroking the dolls hair over and over.
"mommy, I good, promise I good. please mommy, go good place. I find killer, promise. I good, I good, I good, .......
Maikill sits stroking the doll's hair and repeating his words over and over.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Saturday December 5th, 2009 8:02:21 AM
In complete darkness, Xeron is facing a dilemna "What kind of good group is this? They break into a dead man place and want to sell its stuff and use the dead man house as a base. I thouhgt I was a thief and a killer but these good people surely have an interesting vision of the concept. I don't feel good doing what we are doing. "
Finally he said "Unless somehow we changed our approach but I do not believe we are group of thieves or looter. This place does not belong to us. What right do we have to just take it and sell the stuff who does not belong to us"
The world seems to be spinning on itself as the rogue is actually the conciense of the group.
Grendel (Jay) AC:15/10/15 HP 13/13 d20+3=4 ; Saturday December 5th, 2009 9:11:12 AM
Int check for when Grendel examined the puzzlebox: 4 ======================= When Grendel hears Maikill's scream she immediately rushes upstairs. Seeing Maikill in a psychotic state, stroking a doll in his hands Grendel cautiously approaches him aware that he might be under a compulsion of some kind.
Softly she asks, "Maikill... it's Grendel... what happened..." When he begins to speak she encourages him, "Take it slowly, be specific... try to remember the details."
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20=17 ; d20+2=3 ; Saturday December 5th, 2009 1:27:04 PM
Hearing the rogue's comment, the yound cleric speaks up. I partially agree with Xeron. I have no problem with following Mud town's "laws" or claiming the property and our own. That is the how people choose to live here. However I must insist that if a legitimate heir were to show up that we give everything to them to them. Otherwise we would be no better than the petty thugs of mud town.
As Grendle examines the puzzle box, Bosk searches through the stores papers looking for anything that may have clues to the puzzle box or indicate an heir.
Hearing Maikill yell Bosk follows Grendle upstairs. Fearing the worst he tries to keep to the shadows, but he soon discovers that there is no hiding a minotaur in an empty hallway.
search d20=17 hide d20+2=3
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Saturday December 5th, 2009 6:15:17 PM " I good, I good, no mommy, I good...."
Maikill strokes the doll, whose hair is starting to come out so that it has a large bald spot on top.
he stares toward the window, not noticing Grendel at first. Finally, he looks up toward her.
"Mother, she was outside, in the courtyard. She look at me, then [sobs] ..., eyes not right, big yellow eyes, then she smiles at me. Not mother smile, horrible smile. Sharp teeth, and she hold bloody axe. Then run away. I try be good, find mother killer. No understand why she come for me, come as horrible ghost. I no like Mudtown, I go home. Bad things here."
Maikill then resumes sobbing and stroking the now almost bald doll.
Inside Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Saturday December 5th, 2009 8:39:56 PM
Having followed the others upstairs, Sanji whispers to herself, "I've never seen a half-orc cry. By the gods, I have to get out of this town or it'll kill me."
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+7=21 ; Sunday December 6th, 2009 12:32:51 AM
Beriothian makes his way upstairs. He listens to Maikill for a moment then goes to the window and scans for any trace of a person outside.
Spot: 21
I don't know exactly what Maikill saw, but it looks like someone is already aware of our presence here. It would probably be foolish to chase after them right now, but we should probably send two people out to check out the are Maikill saw his mom. If someone is planning on coming in after us we are better off finding out now than tonight while half of us sleep. I would also suggest keeping at least one ranged attacker at this window to act as both a lookout and as backup while we look around.
Inside Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Sunday December 6th, 2009 2:02:02 AM
Sanji's eyes grow wide, "Do you think it's safe to send just two people out in the middle of the night, in such darkness?"
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d20+5=19 ; d20+5=19 ; d20+5=20 ; d20+5=14 ; Sunday December 6th, 2009 1:29:09 PM
While some of the group are picking away at the Puzzle box, others are trying to figure out what Maikill saw or if someone is after us, Valla simply searchs the rest of the downstairs, and the upstairs. Picking through papers; items and desk drawers. Looking for any indication their is/was an heir to this place. Looking for anything that may be useful, a scroll, arcane writings, other oddities. (Downstairs; Search=19)
Making his way up stairs, he picks through the master bed room, then the guest room; and finally the 'little girls room' where Maikill is having a mental break down; merely nodding to his comrads standing beside the half-orc, Valla is deep in thought and seemingly on a mission; (Up staris Search=19)after searching the room he peers out the window, scanning the 'backyard' for anything at all (Spot=20)
Only after doing his solo "Investigation" of the store, he speaks his mind, I think staying here tonight won't hurt anything; especially since I must be bedding down soon; as far as using this place as our Base of Operations; I believe that if in a few more days no one has come to claim the place, there is no reason we cannot use it ourselves. If Mr. Harris has any family I say we give at least half of what this stuff sells for to them, using the rest to fix up the place and start our own Merchants Protection Agency. That alone, I think, would raise up enough money to get us into Hook City proper; but we must not forgot this Brain Eater, it must be caught and killed, no matter what we do about his place here. I suggest making sure all entry ways are somewhat sealed, and discussing a watch for the night, I need to rest my friends....
OOC: Great game Jim! Sorry Im not a bit more consistant with my daily posting, stupid library only stays open till 5 on weekends, I get off work at 4, some times later.... Also; What time is it game time? I know its getting late, Valla needs to rest tonight, if were to do anything about Brain Eater tmw....
Inside Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Monday December 7th, 2009 3:01:23 AM
ooc: so everyone is spending the night here? Setting watches? Any spells being cast, any other precautions in this haun...err, house.
FYI, the large bedroom has two barred windows, and the guest and little girls room has one barred window each. Downstairs the only window is the large barred storefront window. All the shades are closed downstairs, but not upstairs as of yet. There is a water closet downstairs too, under the stairs.
There is still no light in the house.
Grendel (Jay) AC:15/10/15 HP 13/13 Monday December 7th, 2009 8:50:08 AM "Alright, let's settle in for the night. No lights, otherwise we'll attract undue attention. Though I need to sleep to replenish my spells I can see in the dark. Maikill and I make the logical guards for this watch. Anyone else have good night vision? Everyone upstairs, shut the drapes and find a place to crash, keep the doors open. Should there be a disturbance, quickly get some lights up and we'll deal with it as a group."
=========================== Unless someone else can help with the watch in the dark, Grendel will take the first watch and then will sleep in to get her 8 hours of sleep. She'll spend her watch time on the first floor, keeping an eye on the entrances. She'll also find a couple of metal objects to bang together as a warning should there be a break in.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells Monday December 7th, 2009 9:35:20 AM
Ooc: Bosk has night vision and will take any shift. I'll post this afternoon after my final.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Monday December 7th, 2009 12:51:58 PM
Maikill's sobs subside, but the haunted look does not leave his bloodshot eyes.
"I okay, no sleep now. Need to think. I stand watch with Grendel, sleep later."
Maikill will take first watch, has dark vision.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Monday December 7th, 2009 2:31:51 PM
Xeron tries his best not to bump into anything as he, poor weakling human, cannot squat in the house. He somehows goes upstairs without breaking his big toe on a stairs. When Maikill sorts of tell him why the big orc cries like a little girl lost in the dark, Xeron shakes his head. "Big guy, this is called an hallucination. That means it is NOT real. You have to remember you are human. Humans know it is not real. Stupid animal orcs believe it is real. No need to cry. Well, at least if you cry, you are lucky to have a shoulder of a female of your kind to cry on. "
He moves towards Bosk and Valla "I do not like the hallucination part. During my previous career, there was a drug, a black lotus mushroom who would make people see stuff. It nearly destroyed the guild. I took it once and saw my poor mother. That was enough for me to go clean forever. Somehow, there is a bad vibe here. Something or someone is making people having hallucinations. Given that thoughts come from the brain and we are chasing a brain eater, I would not be surprise if the two are related. And given the fact that Maikill just had a vision, this would be the brain eater is near by. Anyone wants to take a little walk outside? "
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20+3=6 ; d20+4=13 ; Monday December 7th, 2009 3:00:05 PM I don't think that is a good idea. The creature is probably trying to lure us outside. It is better to fight it under our terms, that means when it is light out and everyone is rested with their daily spells available. If it's alright with Grendle, I will volunteer for one of the two dark watches. The Lord of Life and Death has given me the gift of dark vision and I have a strong will and am fairly capable of resisting spells. I can take the first or second shift. I can then wake up the next person at dawn, when I usually take my hour of prayer and meditate to regain my spells for the day. I would also appreciate it if anyone with caltrops give them to someone with dark vision to place under the windows and by the doors. If there is any large pieces of furniture available, Bosk will push them in front of the doors. He will also look around for any small pointy objects or objects that will make noise when stepped on to place under the windows and doors as an early warning system. OOC: Bosk will sleep in his studded leather armor and change into his banded mail when he wakes up.
listend20+3=6 spotd20+4=13
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 d20+5=17 ; d20+7=19 ; d20+4=16 ; Monday December 7th, 2009 3:53:19 PM
Maikill shrugs of Xeron's try to calm him.
"You no understand. You call me human, then say Grendel is 'female of my kind'. I think you think us different. No matter, I just who I am. Try best, try to do as mother teach."
the mention of his mother has him inhale deeply, but he does not break down again.
Maikill takes first watch with Grendel. Maikill will wait by the stairs, listening carefully for any intrusions. He can't stand the idea of spending the time staring out into the dark.
Listen 17 Spot 16 ignore d20+7 roll, that was a mistake
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Monday December 7th, 2009 4:29:41 PM
Xeron shakes his head against at Maikill "You really don't understand do you? See Bosk? With the Horns? I consider him Human. But he is not my kind. I consider you and Grendel Human. But you are not my kind. Heck, I even consider Valla human and he is an elf! "
He tries to gently punch the half-orc in the shoulder and ends up hurting his fingers.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Monday December 7th, 2009 4:39:48 PM "Oh, sorry. I slow to understand. You help me, so know you nice. Say nice things too. Sorry Maikill so slow to understand. You sleep, we watch for now."
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells Monday December 7th, 2009 4:44:31 PM
Having made sure the house is secure and "trapped" (Xeron, are you willing to place your calatrops?), Bosk makes sure everyone is aware of thier placement before retireing.
(I am confused as to the time of night it is, howeverBosk will meditate at dawn.)
It was about 10pm when Maikill saw his mother. -- DM Jim
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 Monday December 7th, 2009 4:53:40 PM
Valla nods his head as Bosk talks Xeron out of going out side Going outside would be a bad idea I think. Like Bosk said, if the Brain eater is around, it wants us split up, and probably outside; I'd say...
Anyhow; I'll take a morning watch, after I've rested for 8 hours; yes I have Caltrops as well, you may use them where you think they would be most needed. I have no spells to create light, nor do I have any torches. I can see without much light, but with none Im as blind as Xeron. I would ask that if anyone does have a torch to let me keep it close with me tonight, in case something does happen. I'll have to get a sunrod or two once we have the chance to go shopping once again.
Valla hands Bosk his small pouch of Caltrops, and then waits to be handed a torch, or turned down, and then bids every one good night, he goes into the 'Guest' bedroom, closes the blinds and lays down until his turn for watch.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells Monday December 7th, 2009 5:12:57 PM
Bosk gives Xeron a torch. (I forgot I had any).
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Monday December 7th, 2009 7:59:06 PM
Beri finds a location in the main room that will provide a good view of the door should it be broken down, but will at least initially keep him hidden from view in the shadows. He loads his cross bow and sets it on the floor by his left hand. He turns his head toward the spot where he knows his comrades are standing.
What is the plan for the morning? If we are all going to stay here for a few hours so people can meditate I will start my trance at the same time (dawn) and will help keep guard tonight. I may not have night vision, but I have good ears. If someone comes through the door I should have plenty of light to fight. Otherwise I will start my trance in a couple hours.
Grendel (Jay) AC:15/10/15 HP 13/13 Monday December 7th, 2009 9:25:20 PM "It's settled then... Maikill and I will take first watch. We'll wake Bosk and Berothian for second watch (2am) and Valla will take the morning watch at 6am. I'll likely sleep til 10 or so... a girl needs her beauty sleep, and I need more than most." With that Grendel takes up a position on the first floor so she can keep an eye on the entrances. Every hour she'll take a moment to renew the boon on Maikill, hopefully it'll be in effect should anything transpire this evening.
Inside Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Tuesday December 8th, 2009 12:12:56 AM
After Maikill's breakdown and deciding not to venture outside for fear of being killed by the unknown, the group decides to hold up for the night inside the house. Taking further precautions to prevent the doors from being kicked in and the windows from broken and crawled through (such a feat would be nearly impossible), the group set up watches for the night and the rest set about going to sleep.
The wind blew through the tree outside in the back, they were rare in Mudtown, but a half dead elm swayed in the breeze. About an hour into the first watch, both on duty could hear a scratching from the outside of the west wall. There were no windows on that side and it faced another building so in order to see that was making it, someone would have to go outside--there were no takers and it didn't last for long.
Another hour passed and the heavy clod of footsteps ran across the front landing of the storefront, awaking most in the group. The drapes were pulled so nothing could be seen--it could have been anything, but no one chose to go outside to investigate.
Several hours later a light tapping came from somewhere outside the building. It was incessant and wouldn't go away. Pulling back the front drape cautiously, someone noticed it was a leaky rain gutter and the drops were hitting the edge of a railing; it was lightly raining now.
On the last watch, it was all quiet. The creaks of the well worn floorboards the group slept upon became familiar and no longer registered in protest to the sleepers minds as they finally settled in. All too soon it was morning and although some sought to sleep in, hunger pangs began to set in. Exploring the back room where the group broke in from revealed a small larder and a functional, but very small, kitchen--breakfast was readily accessible, all it needed was to be cooked up.
Outside people were already moving about and from the way they were stopping and talking to each other, something had happened. Currently it is about 8am and the start of the day.
Grendel (Jay) AC:15/10/15 HP 13/13 Tuesday December 8th, 2009 8:35:14 AM
If Grendel didn't need the 8 hours of rest to replenish her spells she would be cooking up a hearty breakfast right about now. The group will have to wait another couple of hours before she rose to start her day.
======================== Sorry guys... such is the life of a spellcaster. =)
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20=17 ; d20=1 ; d20=4 ; Tuesday December 8th, 2009 10:53:50 AM
As the group begins to wake up Bosk begins to collect the calatrops and return the furniture barricading the entrances to its original place. Having been up since his meditation at dawn, the minotaur enters the kitchen and cooks up a traditional tauric breakfast including eggs with large amounts of cream and butter. The only down side to the minotaurs cooking is that he has always used just enough spice to enhance and bring out the natural flavor of the meat, something that is not always advised in mudtown.
As the group rises and decides what to do, Bosk returns the calatrops to Xeron. I recommend the group goes out together to check out back where Maikill saw "his vision", and that we then go out to determine "what has happened".
[b]search 1d20=17
Gather Information 1d20=1
Inside Black Harris' place -- DM JIM d20+3=13 ; Tuesday December 8th, 2009 12:10:16 PM
Having no real skills in cooking (profession: cook), Bosk whips up a decent meal (DC13) or at least one that wouldn't gag a cat, after clearing the area of caltrops. In his perusal of the silverware, which was not silver, the Taur finds an extra set of house keys in the back of a kitchen drawer.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 d20+5=10 ; d20+4=19 ; d20=12 ; Tuesday December 8th, 2009 12:54:14 PM
Maikill stirs and looks around warily before going downstairs to see what the day brings. He is rewarded with smells coming from the kitchen and he joins Bosk there.
"That smell good, is okay I eat some?"
Maikill hungrily wolfs down his breakfast and the events of the past night play in his mind.
"That was bad last night, see terrible thing. Bad dreams too. I no like this place. Mudtown I mean. Maybe we kill brain eater and bad things stop?"
Maikill will follow Bosk around to gather information as Grendel gets a bit more sleep.
listen 10 spot 19 gather information 12
Inside Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Tuesday December 8th, 2009 2:08:38 PM
Now that there is a little more light, Beri is able to poke and prod the puzzle box and manages to slide another piece of the puzzle out of the way.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d20=12 ; d20+5=19 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+1=20 ; Tuesday December 8th, 2009 2:44:50 PM
Valla awakens from his much needed rest, being disturbed a bit during the night, the wizard slept an extra hour or so than he should have. When done resting, he study's his spell book for a while, preparing the complex arcane formulas in his mind, setting them to a readied position, only the trigger commands were needed now. He also takes his share of the breakfast, or cooks his own, depending on how much Bosk had made.
I think we should check out the back yard, very carefully, and then find out what all the commotion is about on the streets. And before we get on with things, let me take a look at the puzzle box Beri, Im a smart elf myself, maybe I can figure it out a bit I enjoy puzzles of this type anyways.
After toying with the puzzle box a bit, Valla will talk to Grendel and Bosk; I have a mending spell prepared today as well, this way we can fix the door fully. We have keys to the place so we can keep it locked up when we leave and at night. Making our secruity problems a bit more worry free. After which he will cast his mending spell on one of the parts of the door that needs mending.
Actions: Prepare Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { Cantrips: Light, Mending, Arcane Mark, Daze Lvl 1: Shocking Grasp, Color Spray, Ray of Enfeeblement } Cook Food: DC 12 Search/Spot Back Yard: d20+5=19 Puzzle Box: d20+3(int)=23 (Nat 20!) Gather Information: d20+1=20
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 d20+3=8 ; d20=16 ; d20+5=24 ; Tuesday December 8th, 2009 8:19:38 PM
Xeron thanks the Taur for breakfast and decides to check the box (1d20 + 3 = 8) but cannot figure it out. He goes outside and see to see if anything look different and approach a few people to learn a thing or two about last night activities. (spot 1d20 + 0 = 16, gather information: 1d20 + 5 = 24) ====================================================================== OOC: Can you let me know if my character sheet is published properly?
looks good to me -- DM Jim
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+7=14 ; d20+3=7 ; Tuesday December 8th, 2009 9:08:29 PM
Beri thanks Bosk and helps himself to a hearty breakfast. After breakfast he goes outside with the other to check the ground for clues of last nights events and the goes out with the others to gather information.
Spot: 14 Gather Information: 7
Inside Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Tuesday December 8th, 2009 10:27:52 PM
As Grendel continued to sleep, Valla studies the puzzle box with his astute eyes, then nods to himself and proceeds to push and pull various mahogany square pegs that form the box. In no time he has dissembled the entire box into a pile of wooden pegs, leaving nothing remaining but a diamond shaped red and black gem at what was once it's center. Half of the gem was dark red, possibly a ruby, the other half was possibly onyx. It was flat on one side and angled on the other and about one inch long.
Grendel (Jay) AC:15/10/15 HP 13/13 Wednesday December 9th, 2009 11:32:23 AM
Grendel slowly rises from her slumber as even her dreams are filled with the sounds of activity within the house. She spends a few minutes quietly considering the last couple of days and her new companions. She says a quick prayer to Flower for their continued protection before sitting up and earnestly beginning her daily prayers. Empowered by Flower's grace, Grendel pops out her spellbook and studies. For almost an hour this morning Flower prepares herself with the power of arcane and divine might that she may be well girded for the adventures of the day.
Finally the pains of hunger force her from her studies and she stands to her feet. Speaking soft words of power she mends the broken breastplate armor she purchased from the group. Another incantation and her skin is refreshed and her clothes are cleaned and mended. A soft sigh escapes her lips as she feels clean for the first time in days. Leaving her gear in a pile she quickly tromps downstairs and makes for the kitchen.
"Good Morning..." ====================================== Prepared Spells for the Day: Cleric: (D)CLW, Command, Inflict Light Wounds, Mending, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Magic
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20=13 ; d20=7 ; Wednesday December 9th, 2009 3:18:15 PM
Before the group can head out to investigate what happened outside Bosk makes an attempt to repair the door by physical means d20=13(not sure of stat bonus). If he can not manually repair the door Bosk will cast mend on the the door jamb as the back door can still be barred shut and the group can leave through the front door and lock it behind them. Upon finishing with the door, Bosk turns around just in time to see Valla solve the puzzle and uncover the mysterious gem. Try as he might, the taur is unable to recall any useful information about such a box or such a gem d20=7. Nice work Valla. I suppose the next items on our list to find out about the gem and determine what is going on outside.
Repair Door d20=13 Knowledge (Common) d20=7
Cast Mending on door jam
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Wednesday December 9th, 2009 5:18:13 PM
Maikill looks over as Valla works on the puzzle box and is amazed that so many took so long to open it.
"I could open with axe fast." he says matter-of-factly.
though when the box pops open and reveals a gem then Maikill adds:
"Maybe axe not good to open everything, maybe prize get broke. What good is it, it valuable? No look valuable. Not even look magic. Let's go look outside, find what is happen. See if mother left footprint."
Maikill then urges the others to go out with him, preferable someone who can spot footprints better than himself.
listen, spot and gather info in previous post
Outside Black Harris' place -- DM JIM Wednesday December 9th, 2009 6:57:25 PM
The morning drizzle had dried up and all that remained was an overcast sky. It was odd, there always seemed to be foul weather around Hook City, but not over the city proper--perhaps it is the result of so much weather manipulation over the fair city.
Stepping outside through the many mended backdoor, the group first investigates the backyard, but find that pigs from a nearby pen must have been running about the area--any signs of Maikill's mother would be impossible to find without the aid of a ranger.
Heading around to the front, the group asks some passersby what the commotion is all about. None want to talk to the Taur due to his intimidating appearance, but soon the group finds out that there has been another grisly murder, a merchant by the name of Hammond Delves has had his skull cracked open and eaten. Gossip has it that his partner, Chipper Wanes--who cannot verify his whereabouts the previous night, committed a copycat murder to take full control of the business so he could pay off his gambling debts. They ran a livestock business and some say they also dealt in rare animal curiosities.
Zamnoodle -- DM JIM Wednesday December 9th, 2009 7:05:30 PM
In the course of their talks with the streetfolk, Valla tunes into a familiar voice nearby. Looking with his keen eyes, he see's his nemesis, Zamnoodle, talking tersely to a lone individual. The man Zamnoodle was berating was nicely dressed and obviously not of Mudtown, looking more like a denizen of Hook City itself--Zam himself is accompanied by six of his companions from the looks of it.
"Look, you need protection," Zam said, "Else, a group of less than scrupulous men could take advantage of you, rough you up, understand?"
"Well, I'm staying at a good inn, I don't need any protection."
Pushing his gnome finger into the man's belly, "I says you do, else, you could get hurt, and I would be awful sorry to see that happen right here, right now. Understand?"
"Uh, no, I don't understand, what are you trying to tell me?"
"I'm trying to tell you that we're you're new bodyguards while you're in Mudtown, got it? And it'll only cost you 1000gp a day."
"Wha? I don't have that kind of gold on me!"
"Oh? Well that's a heavy looking backpack you got there, what's in it?"
"None of your business!"
"Oh, I think it's our business alright!"
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Wednesday December 9th, 2009 9:20:24 PM
Having first hand knowledge of wounds one would sustain from a genuine encounter with the brain eater Beriothian had been trying to find someone who had actually had a good look at the dead man when he notices Valla looking at a group of people a little ways down the street. He turns discreetly starts gather the group while pretending to still gather information.
ooc: is the gem back at the store? I have assumed Valla still has it -- DM Jim
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells Wednesday December 9th, 2009 10:36:58 PM
Can I get a discription of the party, arms and armor?
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Wednesday December 9th, 2009 11:13:47 PM
Maikill looks on with interest at the discussion taking place between the gnome and merchant. Stepping forward, he volunteers some information to the gnome.
"You protect people too? We do same. Help merchant other day, help him get to city safe. He pay us less than 1000 gp a day. I guess we work cheap, maybe not as good as you. If man not afford you, maybe we can help. We not charge much, new at business."
looking at the man with a gnome's finger in his chest he adds:
"You decide if you want another bid for help. We look for work too."
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+8=9 ; Wednesday December 9th, 2009 11:41:58 PM
While Maikill is distracting the gnome Beriothian glances around quickly to see if there is any cover/shadows he can use to sneak up behind the enemy (or any such favorable position for a sneak attack). If it appears he has not yet been spotted and there is cover Beri will attempt to start moving into position. If either of these conditions are not met he will stay by Valla for the time being. Either way, he has a gut feeling Wardd isn't with him at the moment.
hide (d20 +8)=9
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 13/13 Thursday December 10th, 2009 9:44:41 AM
Grendel will head out with the others after Bost fixed the door. Seeing the infamous Zamnoodle, Grendel curses her own lack of preparation as she is unarmored and only armed with a couple of boot daggers. She touches the hat of disguise whispering "Shizzle-bop" while imagining herself as a female human that is dressed as a dirty commoner, before moving into sight. Keeping her distance (30' behind Maikill) she whispers a blessing from Flower and renews her protection to Maikill with 'Shield Other'.
=============================== Grendel is currently unarmored. This is reflected in her AC, but also reduces the gear she has available at the moment to the following worn items: Holy Symbol, Healer's Kit, Travelers Outfit, Spell Component Pouch, 2 daggers(1 in each boot), Platnum ring (spell focus), and Hat of Disguise. Grendel casts 'Shield Other' on Maikill.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Thursday December 10th, 2009 10:52:33 AM
Xeron puts himself against the wall of a building while watching the scene. Then he follows Maikill comments addressing the merchant "Sir, I am sorry those low-lifes are annoying you. If you or your cargo needs protection, we are an honest group with competitive rate. We have a recommendation from Master Penn if you are interested. Our rates are very competitives"
Then he focus his stare at Zam "hey beardless dwarf, why don't you and your group take a hike? Unless you want to have the same fate as the Ironband? They tried to cross us and they are either dead or on the run. So leave this merchant alone and feel the consequences. "
He addresses the merchant again "We also do one time engagement such as getting rid of the vermin bothering you. Tell the word and they are gone. "
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20=4 ; d20=18 ; Thursday December 10th, 2009 11:57:54 AM
As Xeron approaches the group Bosk fears the worst. Trying to keep to the shadows hide=8 Bosk prays that the group is distracted as he attempts to sneaks closer to the group hoping to get an advantageous position for an attack. After hearing the exchange, the blond minotaur gives a sigh of relief as the event is handled much ore professionally than he had expected. Towering over the gnome, the Taur speaks in slowly and with a voice so cold that there was no mistaking the danger in his voice. Now Zamnoodle, you forgot to tell him that your group doubles their rate after the first night and will attack him in the middle of the night and fence his goods if he doesn't pay. Isn't that why Penn fired you and hired us? Now go, we re no longer under Penn's employ and won't bother you. But right now you are giving our profession a bad name, and that is something we will not allow. Go now and we will forget about this, otherwise I will introduce you to Gargul, Master of Life and Death, and reunite you with the rest of the Iron Bandintimidate = 19 hide=d20+4=4+4=8 intimidate d20+1=19
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells Thursday December 10th, 2009 12:01:04 PM
ooc: Is Sanji with us, or has she gone walk about?
--She is busy cleaning in the kitchen. Taurs can make quite a mess :) DM Jim
ooc-- DM JIM Thursday December 10th, 2009 12:12:25 PM
I'm going to hold off on posting till at least Valla posts, I think he would like to comment on the crystal and his friend Zamnoodle. If he doesn't post by tonight, then I'll process a turn and post the battle map :)
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d20+7=8 ; d20+1=9 ; d20+5=12 ; Thursday December 10th, 2009 5:54:36 PM
Valla is impressed with his handy work when the puzzle is unraveld. hehe; Elves are good for something I guess..
He studies the gem for a moment (Knowledge Check: 8...) but can't seem to rack his brain good enough this early in the morning. Figureing out the puzzle and studying has takin a toll on the wizards mind it seems.. He puts the gem away, in a pouch under his light armor, hidden from view.
While out with the group getting information, Valla is more concerned with Zamnoodle, down the street a ways. He stares at the evil little gnome and his company(Spot: 12) for a good time, and then follows everyone else as they approach him and the distressed merchant.
ZAMNOODLE!!! You Yellow-Bellied, Beardless-wanna-be-dwarf. Must you annoy and threaten everyone you meet? I cannot let you rob and decieve this man, he's done nothing to you. Valla glares at Zamnoodle, and then fits himself between the gnome and merchant. I think you'd better go on your way; I'd hate to let a Taur smash a tiny boy, such as yourself. besides, this merchant doesn't want anything you have to offer; of that I am sure.
Valla will then glare at Zam, eyes never leaving Zam's. A small smirk appears on the elf's face; and wiggling his fingers, his hand inching toward his sword hilt, he says Whats it goin to boy; boy.
Actions: Sopt: 12 Intimidate: 9
Jacob the Lesser -- DM JIM d20+2=22 ; d6=4 ; Thursday December 10th, 2009 6:57:31 PM "Well if it isn't my old friend, SCARFACE!" Normally a half-orc and Taur are enough to intimidate anyone, let alone a Taur trying to intimidate someone, but Zamnoodle doesn't bat an eye (check22, nat20!) when Bosk stares at him menacingly--and he out and out smiles when Valla attempts to intimidate him. "So I see you're still alive, too bad, I had hoped I would be dancing on your grave here soon--and yeah, I heard about that business with the Ironband, but it looks like you've lost a few of your members, too bad, really it is." Zam's fece's eating grin was almost too much for Valla to take, or at least the gnome was trying to make it so.
"Uhh, listen, I don't want any trouble here, but it does seem like I do need some protection, so yes, half-orc, I am looking for some guards." Taking a 5ft step behind Maikill, Jacob continues, "Sorry Zamnoodle, but I have chosen these men to guard me." Whispering to Maikill, "You're not going to charge me a 1000gp a day are you?"
Zamnoodle was about to say something, but then changed his mind, "Okay, fine, be that way. Lets go boys!" Zam and his companions back away from the group and move back down the street about 30ft before Zamnoodle yells out, "Now boys and girls, give em the arrows!" First person to post, roll 1d6, that is your groups initiative. Zam and friends have a 4.
J= Jacob the Lesser Z= Zamnoodle, male gnome; studded armor, whip 1= Zimina,female half-orc; hide armor, greataxe 2= Cade, male halfling; no armor 3= Hemust, male half-elf; breastplate, longsword, longbow 4= Jillian, female human; chain shirt, bastard sword, longbow 5= Burwotti, male halfling; studded leather, short sword, sling 6= Lilly, female halfling; studded leather, bandolier of daggers, sling
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20=20 ; d20=12 ; 2d6+5=8 ; Thursday December 10th, 2009 8:22:25 PM
Bosk's eyes harden as he quickly assesses the situation realizes the danger of the situation and just how careful the group needs to be. This is not good. What was Grendel thinking? Who ever heard of an orc not wearing any armor? To make matters worse Sanji stayed behind, what happened to the buddy system and staying together as a group? And then there is Beri...
Just as the minotaur is pondering the new rogue he sees Beriothian getting into position, when a realization dawned on him. With all that has gone in the past twenty four hours, we really haven't learned anything about Beri. For all we know he could be with the Iron Band, or worse yet somehow connected to the brain eater. .. Quickly weighing his options he makes his decision. Beri, help me take this one out. Your with me this battle. Xeron, you know what to do! Grendel and Valla your with Maikill.
Seeing that the best armored men are hiding behind the others, Bosk charges towards Zamnoodle (P,Q/10,11) bellowing as he does so. Swinging with all his might, the Taur uses his advantage of height and reach as he swings over Zamnoodle's head and arcs his Morningstar down hard on his head, easily getting through his opponents defenses. Following through his attack the minotaur spins and spins and slightly turns his head so that he can see just see Beri. Better to get this out of the way. If he is a traitor I prefer to know now than to find out when my back is turned. Should he prove faithful, I will have to learn more about him after the battle. If Beri comes to assist the taur, then he will continuing attacking Zamnoodle's group. If he should suspect Beri of treachery, then he will spin around and his left horn will be coming about to meet the young rogue.
================================================== Attack d20+3+2(charging) = 20+3+2=25 NAT 20!!! Confirm Critical d20+3+2=12+3+2=17 (19 if Beri or Xeron successfully aids another) damage2d6+5=8 (a nat 20 followed by a 1 and a 2 on damage just my luck) Crit=damage*2
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d6=4 ; d6=5 ; Thursday December 10th, 2009 8:23:17 PM
Sorry, forgot the d6. I didn't know what to do, so I rolled twice since it was a tie.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20=1 ; Thursday December 10th, 2009 9:19:51 PM
Beriothian hears the cleric call out to him for support. Not seeing any cover he can use to sneak behind the enemy he runs forward to aid Bosk, doing his best to stay behind the massive taur. As he approaches he sees the enemy readying their bows. Beri falls to his knees and slides toward Bosk with his rapier drawn. With one swift move he thrusts his sword between the taur's legs toward Zamnoodle in an attempt to aid Bosk in his attack. Not being accustomed to fighting with such a larger partner Beri quickly learns that his sword is barely long enough to extend past the giant legs in front of him, turning what he had hoped to be an impressive assist to his comrade into an almost comical failure.
Assist Target= 1
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 13/13 Thursday December 10th, 2009 9:24:15 PM
Grendel quickly moves to the corner of a building to keep from the arrow assault. She prepares an enchantment and plans on hitting the first opponent that comes within range. "Gargul take me for walking these blasted streets without proper armor. Domi pray to Ffloy for us..."
======================= Move Action: T-18 Standard Action: Ready an action to cast Charm Person at the first opponent to move within 30 ft.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 d6=2 ; Friday December 11th, 2009 9:52:31 AM
ooc: is there room to run past Bosk to Q-9? Ignore d6 roll.
YOu can move through a friendly square, but you cannot stop on one. Watch your AoO's.--DM Jim
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells Friday December 11th, 2009 11:22:46 AM
Finishing his attack on Zamnoodle, the minotaur turns a split second to late. His eyes widen as Beriothian comes into view. Still being carried by the momentum of his last attack, he is unable to respond as the rogue drops to his knees and slides across the ground, sword first, with the tip aiming straight between the clerics legs. Just as he steadies himself and prepares his counter attack re realizes that Beri's blade never connected. Looking down he realizes that he was lucky that he was unable to respond to the attack. That the attack must have been meant to either hurt or distract the gnome. I guess Beri isn't a traitor, just inept. At least he was brave and charged up here. It is easier to teach someone the sword than to break someone of cowardice.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 d20+8=24 ; d12+5=11 ; Friday December 11th, 2009 11:53:46 AM "No sir, we no charge you anything at the ....."
He stops in mid-sentence as Zamnoodle calls on his group to fire and Bosk goes charging forward.
Trying his best to stay in step with the Minotaur, Maikill runs forward to Q-9 and swings his axe at the gnome.
"Kill leader, others run away if they want live."
Hit AC 24 Damage 11
Round 1 -- DM JIM d6=6 init; d20+2=6 ; d20+2=7 ; d20+2=15 ; d20+4=16 ; d6=3 ; d6=1 ; d6=6 ; d6=5 ; d6=2 ; d6=4 ; d20=3 ; d20+6=9 ; d4=2 ; d6=5 ; d20+4=7 ; d20+5=13 ; d20+3=8 ; d20-1=14 ; Friday December 11th, 2009 12:47:33 PM
Before the group can react, a volley of arrows and sling bullets are let loose. Luckily, none hit our intrepid heroes. one amongst Zam's group, Cade(#2) quickly casts a spell to protect himself.
Bellowing combat assignments to his fellow companions, Bosk charges forward directly at Zamnoodle. Bringing all his weight to bear, Bosk slams his morningstar down on the hapless gnome, which nearly kills him outright. Critical X2 means roll twice, not damage*2. Also, you only do 2d6+3 damage, right? there is no extra damage for charging, just for hitting. Additonal Crit damage=+9hp
Beri rushes forward as Bosk commands, but finds his impromptu attack lacks tactical finesse and is more about seeing how much mud he can cover himself with.
Moving to take cover, disguised as she is, Grendel hugs a building corner and prepares to cast a spell.
Caught off-guard and in mid-sentence, Maikill joins the fight as he rushes forward, his axe finding a solid purchase in Zamnoodles head--killing him outright. Perhaps this wasn't such a bright idea, Zam thinks, the next to last in his mind before the axe ends his life.
With their leader dead, the rest become infuriated and attack wildly.
Zimina rushes forward and attacks Maikill, but can't seem to hit him. (Bosk gets an AoO on her)
Cade takes a 5ft step backwards and sends a magic missile spell into Bosk, hurting him slightly.
Hemust takes a 5ft step to the side and engages Bosk with his longsword, but he too cannot strike the beast either, so distraught over the death of his companion, Zam.
Jillian, Burwotti and Lilly also rush forth to attack the enormous Taur; Luckily for Bosk, none have a flanking advantage on him and even more luckily, none of them hit Bosk with their weapons.
J= Jacob the Lesser Z= Zamnoodle, male gnome; studded armor, whip 1= Zimina,female half-orc; hide armor, greataxe 2= Cade, male halfling; no armor 3= Hemust, male half-elf; breastplate, longsword, longbow 4= Jillian, female human; chain shirt, bastard sword, longbow 5= Burwotti, male halfling; studded leather, short sword, sling 6= Lilly, female halfling; studded leather, bandolier of daggers, sling
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20+3=9 ; d20+3=16 ; 2d6+3=8 ; 2d6-2=5 ; d20-2=8 ; Friday December 11th, 2009 2:20:42 PM
As Zimina rushes toward Maikill the taur attempts to slower her down with another swing from his morning star. Although the hit doesn't seem to connect, it at least appears to have broken her stride enough so that Maikill can dodge her attack.AoA=9 Maikill, take the orc out and then come help me. Go after the ones in the breast plate and chain mail next.
Watching as the Iron Band closes in around him, Bosk begins to get worried. Where did Grendel go, and what are Valla and Xeron doing just standing there? This could get ugly real fast. Xeron, Beri I could use a little help if it's not too much trouble. ( Aid another would be nice, for primary atk on Burwotti)
As the group closes in around him, Bosk feels a sudden pain as a magic missile connects with his side. Furious the Taur begins to give in to his anger, letting the more bestial side of his personality show through. Slowly his nostrils begin to flair while his eyes narrow and become cold. Evil must be destroyed... Bellowing once again, this time with something wild in his voice he declares, Gargul will judge your souls tonight! As he yells this, the taur brings down his mace upon the leather clad Halfling, atk=16 and feels his weapon connect. Without taking the time to look to see if the Halfling (Burwotti) could even feel the below through his amour, the taur follows with a second attack. Wildly swinging his horns at the Halfling female beside him (#6 Lilly)atk=8, his horn doesn't appear to connect, but hopefully it will buy him enough time for Maikill to dispose of Zimina and assist him.
Maikill HP (32)28/28, AC14 rage 1/8 d20+10=12 ; Friday December 11th, 2009 2:37:45 PM
The gnome died easily enough, as he expected. A half-orc clad in armor may be a different problem. The primordial yell for Bosk and the attack by so many on his friend has quickly taken Maikill to the edge. He lets out his own scream of rage and begins to furiously attack. He starts with the half orc in front of him but his swing seems to be off.
Spittle flies from his mouth as he yells "Die like gnome, die like dog. Come to me and die."
Hit AC 12
ooc: Next week I am going hunting but staying in a motel, so probably have internet access. Maikill is simple enough though, if I don't post in time anyone is welcome to jump in and do his attack. While in rage he has +10 attack and his axe does 1d12+7 damage.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 d20=14 ; Friday December 11th, 2009 3:54:57 PM
OOC: Cannot open battle map at work. won't be able to post later. So sorry about the louzy post. ===================================================================== Suddenly Xeron vision gets blurry and he moves toward the fight. He is not sure where to go but how to get there but his goal is to avoid an AoO and provide flanking if possible. At least, he hopes to be in a position to aid another. ===================================================================== Aid another if possible: 1d20 = 14
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d20+6=12 ; d8=5 ; Friday December 11th, 2009 5:00:43 PM
Valla isn't surprised at being 'ambushed' by Zam's party; as the enemies fire arrows at the group, Valla only smiles, and takes a good look around.
Seeing Bosk and Maikill handle Zam, Valla is slightly depressed, I wanted him for myself, but alls well I guess...
Valla then strains his eyes to study his opponents for a moment. He sees Bosk nearly surrounded. He takes his bow and fires at Lilly; the Halfling headed to Bosk's backside.
Watch your back big guy! Valla screams as he looses his arrow; After firing the Wizard quickly drops his bow to the ground; They need more help than an arrow will give...
Actions: Long Bow at #6 (Lilly): Hit ac 12; 5 damage Drop Long Bow
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d6+1=2 ; d20=6 ; Friday December 11th, 2009 8:17:56 PM
Beriothian jumps back to his feet and does his best to assist Bosk in his attack, but unfortunately has a hard time maneuvering his sword without slicing Bosk's legs. He will make sure his next attack hits it's mark.
d20=6 <If Xeron moved to P13 > After assisting Bosk he takes a few steps (to p12) in order to prevent Lili from moving behind Bosk.
ooc: ignore the d6, I thought I could both assist and attack this turn, but nobody is close enough.
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 13/13 Saturday December 12th, 2009 3:37:54 PM
Grendel moves forward after the arrows pass and her allies engage. Forming the words of power she points a finger at Jillian and shouts, "Fall!". Watching Berothian and Xeron form a wall on Bosk's left side to keep flankers at bay, she decides to keep an eye back toward Jacob the Lesser.
=========== Move Action: 30' to S12. Standard Action: Cast Command "Fall" (causing the person to fall prone and remain there for 1 round) at Jillian. (My hopes are that the others will either hit her when she is down or take an attack of opportunity on her when she stands.) Will Save (DC 14) to resist.
Note to Maikill's player: Under the effect of Shield Other, Maikill gains +1 deflection bonus to AC and a +1 resistance bonus to saves.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 Saturday December 12th, 2009 4:23:26 PM
Sorry guys, But I won't be able to post again today; I had hoped Jim would have the turn processed by now, I just got off work and made it to the library. My intentions for this round were to go forward and use my MW Longsword and possiby a bit of magic; depending on what the enemy did of course.
Jim, Bosk, Xeron, feel free to NPC for this round. I'll post again about the same time tmw; if the new turn has processed.....
Round 1 -- DM JIM Saturday December 12th, 2009 5:22:32 PM
ooc: I was waiting on Grendel to post... and I'm at work so I don't have access to update the map, so it'll be a few more hours until I post the turn. We're on schedule though, actually ahead of it since posting on the weekends are not required, but I haven't a thing to do so I like to keep the game going on a constant pace. If you can't post on a weekend, no prob, I won't process the turn. On a weekday if you're unable to post, then I will process the turn without your post unless someone else steps in for you with your approval.
BTW, just my personal opinion, but aid another when you have so many surrounding you is probably not the best tactic.
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 13/13 Saturday December 12th, 2009 6:34:34 PM
OOC Tactics:
Yeah, seriously. It'd make more sense to tag team an opponent for a turn. If he's still up you each can make a 5' step and flank him, which provides the +2 bonus AND gets our rogues the sneak-attack opening they want.
As for other group moves, it's beginning to dawn on me that we're doing a 'charge first, ask questions later' routine in most combats. We've got a bunch of finesse fighters and casters... maybe there is another way to proceed with future combats.
Not that I'm complaining... I don't mind using Grendel to run healing duty, that's part of her build, but we've gotten pretty close to complete failure and TPK before. I'd like to keep that from happening if at all possible.
For those of you unfamiliar with Dark*Sun or Planescape games, a TPK is a Total Party Kill. =)
Good Gaming! -Jason
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Saturday December 12th, 2009 8:01:53 PM
ooc: I am assisting because Bosk is requesting it and because with my current health if I to move a flanking position I will be exposed enough that I could easily die in one round (BTW Valla, I believe your health is about double what you posted it as).
Maikill HP (32)28/28, AC15 rage 1/8 Saturday December 12th, 2009 10:49:29 PM
ooc: AC adjustment
Round 2 -- DM JIM d20-1=15 ; d20+6=14 ; d20+5=13 ; d3=3 ; d20+4=18 ; d20+5=9 ; d20+3=22 ; d6+1=5 ; d20+1=6 ; Sunday December 13th, 2009 1:47:26 AM
Continuing to bellow out orders and keeping his mates organized, Bosk strikes out at Burwotti and would have failed to hit him if not for the timely assist by Xeron, which drove the halfling into Bosk's weapon, crushing a rib or two. Then Bosk takes a horned swipe at Lilly, but fails to connect. (Are your HP's right? Did you add your 2nd level Con bonus to your roll?)
Yelling a curse at his foe, Maikill fails to make good on it and misses Zimina easily.
Valla screams out a warning to Bosk as he fires an arrow at Lilly, missing her by a mile. From your CS you only have a +5 to hit, also, there is a -4 to hit for firing into a melee
Beri attempts to move to help Bosk also, but finds he cannot with Xeron blocking him. Xeron had to move to P12 to help assist Bosks attack on Burwotti
Calling upon her goddess to fell her foe, Grendel commanded Jillian to "Fall", but against all odds, the woman defied her prayer (check 15, even with a -1 Will save!)
Zimina strikes back at Maikill, her weapon glancing off the Shield Other prayer that Grendel had previously put on the half-orc. If the two had been back at the clan village, some would think they were performing a mating dance.
Cade targets Bosk again, this time sending a painful ray of frost into the Taur's shoulder.
Hemust quickly follows up with a devastating thrust, but Bosk's armor turns the blade away just enough to save him.
Jillian growls in frustration as her bastard sword, swung with both hands, fails to end the Taur's life as she swings wildly.
However, Burwotti manages to do what the rest did not, and chops his shortsword into Bosk's leg, causing him great pain.
Lilly makes a quick manuever around Xeron, flanking him, and strikes at his kidney with her dagger. Luckily for Xeron, her form is terrible and she misses completely.
Damage Taken ------------------ Zamnoodle: DEAD Burwotti (AC17): -8hp
Bosk: -3hp,-3hp,-5hp
J= Jacob the Lesser Z= Zamnoodle, male gnome; studded armor, whip 1= Zimina,female half-orc; hide armor, greataxe 2= Cade, male halfling; no armor 3= Hemust, male half-elf; breastplate, longsword, longbow 4= Jillian, female human; chain shirt, bastard sword, longbow 5= Burwotti, male halfling; studded leather, short sword, sling 6= Lilly, female halfling; studded leather, bandolier of daggers, sling
Maikill HP (32)28/28, AC15 rage 1/8 d20+10=26 ; d12+7=16 ; Sunday December 13th, 2009 11:54:48 AM
Watching Bosk being attacked and wounded by so many causes the rage within Maikill to become even more intense. This time he yells out curses, but the words are hidden in a primitive scream.
His axe swings at the half-orc Zimina. This time his axe seems to swing true and cut deep.
Hit AC 26 Damage 16
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 d20+2=10 ; Sunday December 13th, 2009 12:49:30 PM
Xeron knows his tactical careless will ends up costing him soon. He yells "Beri, go flank the woman attacking me (6) (i.e. go to P14). Between the 2 of us we can easily piecer her heart."
He strikes at the woman, but his aim is way off base (1d20 + 2 = 10) "[i]At that pace, I will rejoin my mom very soon []/i]
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 13/13 d8+2=8 ; Sunday December 13th, 2009 1:22:37 PM
Grendel moves up behind the great 'Taur and with a touch uses a boon of healing to keep him steady. "Fight Well, should they gather together I have a cone of fire prepared this day." Then she pulls a dagger so that she will not be caught unarmed in this attack.
=================== Free Action: 5' step to R11 Standard Action: Cast CLW on Bosk (8 hp healed) Move Action: Draw a dagger from her boot
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20+3=5 ; d20+3=18 ; 2d6+3=11 ; d20-2=17 ; d8+3=4 ; Sunday December 13th, 2009 4:09:29 PM
ooc: I personally have found the assist another to be useful for the first 1-3 levels (depending on character build) when a character has a low bab and low hit points. It gives rogues a chance to take advantage of a human shied and bide their time until they can move in for a sneak attack. It also comes in handy when no one can seem to land a hit (often in the first two levels).
As the half-elf attacks the horned cleric with his long sword, Bosk cannot help but to laugh as it bounces harmlessly off his amour. Just as he is about to taunt the attack he is hit once again by Cade's magic, this time freezing the shoulder of his amour and numbing the skin underneath. The taur has just enough time to recompose himself as he dodges Jillian's attack. An attack which surely would have hit the gigantic figure is she had taken an extra second to calm down and aim the gleaming broad sword. Preparing to strike back at the woman wielding the bastard sword, the taur howls as he is struck in the leg by Burwotti. Not only had the Halfling survived his attack, but after being attacked by his three comrades the taur had completely forgotten about him.
As the blood begins to trickle down his leg, the cleric begins to think to himself. Four on one, this is not good. If it hadn't been for Xeron and Beri things would be even worse. Hopefully Maikill can finish that orc off quickly and help devide this party up. Getting into a defensive stance, Bosk's tactics switch to one of pure survival. I just need to hold these guys off a couple seconds longer. Just as he is about to attack he hears Grendel's voice and feels the wound on his stitch itself back up. Turning slightly in the "disguised" half-orcs direction, he smiles and gives a slight nod to show his appreciation. [i] It appears Grendel is watching over me today.[i]
Just as he thinks this he sees Valla run up to flank Lilly (move to P/14 atk=5 and assist Xeron and Beri in taking down the foe. The realization that Lilly would not survive long and his friends would be flanking from the left as Maikill would soon be closing in from the right gave the Taur renewed strength. Abandoning his defensive stance the taur strikes out at Jillian (#4) and brings his Morning star crashing down upon her head (atk=18) and seeks to skewer the Halfling with his horn (atk=17), extracting revenge for his bloody leg.
================================ Valla Atk #6 Lilly=20+3=5
================================
Bosk Atk1 #4 Jillian d20+3=18 dmg 2d6+3=11
2nd Nat Atk #5 Burwotti d20+3-5=17 dmg d8+3=4
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells Sunday December 13th, 2009 4:26:15 PM
Sorry, I misread Xeron's post requesting Beri at P/14. Valla will move to Q/14 and allow Beri to pass through if he wishes to go to P/14
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+8=27 ; d20+1=14 ; d6+1=2 ; d6+3=8 ; Sunday December 13th, 2009 4:37:04 PM
Beriothian hears Xeron's call asking him to flank Lilly. Before he can respond Xeron moves to attack I need to get into flanking position if I'm going to be of any use, but I have to be careful. If I provoke an attack of opportunity I could easily find myself on the verge of death. Beri takes a running leap towards Lilly and deftly dives between her and Xeron's clashing swords, easily landing behind Lilly flanking her. It seems that Wardd is finally looking favorably on me. With Lilly's back to him Beri thrusts his sword toward her kidney.
Tumble= 27 Hit=14 (if hit connects) Sneak Attack=2 damage Attack damage (+2 for flank)= 8 damage
I believe that's Hit AC 16 (+2 for flanking), Damage 8hp (6hp +2 hp for sneak attack). -ADM Jay
Maikill HP (32)28/28, AC15 rage 2/8 Sunday December 13th, 2009 6:49:39 PM
ooc: correcting # rounds rage in header
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d20+4=22 ; d8+2=7 ; Monday December 14th, 2009 11:17:34 AM
OOC: Use Bosks post if you want; but I had intended to post today, just not again yesterday. And Valla's MW Long Sword gives another +1 to hit I thought, right? If not then Valla would hit AC 21 instead of 22.. Sorry about the bow mod, I thought I left out my BAB when I rolled.
IC: Valla runs to Bosk's aid, realizing his bow would be more danger than useful. He draws his MW Longsword and rushes Lily (#6). The elven wizards blood is pumping now, being nervous and anxious at the same time. Although these feelings are overcome once his sword connects with the Halfling. Zam's band; what were you thinking little one? Trusting a beardless gnome?
Lets go guys! These thieves don't deserve mercy! Let Gargul judge them this day!
Actions: Move Action: Move to Q, 14. Standard Action: Attack w/ MW LongSword Lilly, #6; Hit AC 22; Damage=7
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells Monday December 14th, 2009 12:42:07 PM
Sorry Valla, I read your post on Sunday morning and thought it was for Sunday. Although its up to the DM, I would have no problem / would not be offended if my post was not used.
I took the +3 to hit off your character sheet. It doesn't look like you updated it to the MW Sword & stats.
Longsword to hit +3 [+2 (STR) +1 Bab] damage D8 Critical (19-20) X2
Round 3 -- DM JIM d20+6=20 ; d12+4=12 ; d4+1=4 ; d20+4=19 ; d8+2=10 ; d20+5=12 ; d20+7=8 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+7=20 ; d20+5=18 ; d4=2 ; Monday December 14th, 2009 12:49:32 PM
Yelling out another curse, Maikill lands a solid blow against Zimina, his axe laying open her chest. It would have fell a normal man, but Zimina hangs on for dear life.
Xeron quickly realizes in he's in a bad tactical position and yells at Beri to outflank Lilly. Striking at the little halfling, Xeron misses the nimble little minx.
Seeing Bosk being the target of so many again, Grendel step up and eases his pain with the power of prayer (+8hp)
Acknowledging Grendel's timely healing, Bosk delivers a crushing blow to Jillian, but she continues to fight on regardless of the pain. Them turning a horn to Burwotti, Bosk gores the little halfling, nearly driving him unconscious.
With a death defying move, Beri leaps by Lilly, avoiding her daggers, and lands slightly behind her. Thrusting with his blade, he just misses the agile halfling.
Valla cheers his companions on as he outflanks Lilly. His masterwork sword plunges deep into her back, nearly felling her with one blow.
In pain, Zimina says through gritted teeth, "Too bad we fight... you strong... handsome too." Then she delivers a punishing cut with her greataxe (-6hp,-6hp to Grendel for Shield other).
Cade once again called on his mage powers and sent a magic missile burrowing into Bosks chest, then turned tail and ran.
Hemust smiles in satisfaction as his longsword slashes Bosk across the chest, sending a spray of blood from the wounded Taur (-10hp). Bosk, I think your HP's are wrong, you should have 20hp max, right? - DM Jim
Jillian screams once again in frustration as her bastard sword fails to breech Bosk's armor.
Burwotti see's his end coming soon, so he decides to try and tumble away from his foes, but fails miserablely. Bosk and Xeron both get AoO's on Burwotti as he moves away.
Badly bleeding, Lilly also decides to tumble away out of the fray and is much more successful than Burwotti on her attempt (no AoO's). Landing on her feet, she throws a dagger back at Xeron, striking him in the arm (-2hp).
J= Jacob the Lesser Z= Zamnoodle, male gnome; studded armor, whip 1= Zimina,female half-orc; hide armor, greataxe 2= Cade, male halfling; no armor 3= Hemust, male half-elf; breastplate, longsword, longbow 4= Jillian, female human; chain shirt, bastard sword, longbow 5= Burwotti, male halfling; studded leather, short sword, sling 6= Lilly, female halfling; studded leather, bandolier of daggers, sling
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 7/13 d8+2=8 ; Monday December 14th, 2009 1:48:18 PM
Grendel cries out as the axe slices through Maikill, her own flesh tearing open in the same place he was wounded. Amazingly, Maikill's wounds aren't nearly as grevious as one would expect after being smacked with a great axe. She smiles as she sees the wound on Maikill is not a serious one and he stands strong against our enemies... "A fair trade.", she thinks.
Steadying her footing behind the great Taur she again channels Flower's boon of healing to her large ally. "I can't keep this up friend..." she whispers and motions with a hand to Xeron, Beri and Valla to aid the 'Taur now that the halflings have been scattered. "Let them run...!" ==================== Standard Action: Spontaneously Cast CLW on Bosk in place of Inflict Light Wounds. (Healed 8 hp) Free Action: Call to others for help.
(Note: Guys, Grendel is out of CLWs now. If this battle turns, we'll have to run for it. I've got some Cure Minor Wounds and a healer's kit, both of which can stabilize you from bleeding out but that's about it.)
Maikill HP (32)28/28, AC15 rage 3/8 d20+10=22 ; d12+7=18 ; Monday December 14th, 2009 4:57:44 PM
Through the haze of battle rage he can hear his opponent speak, seemingly she wishes the battle did not have to take place. Then she strikes him deeply. Funny that she should speak words of regret as she attacks. Funny that her attack did not seem to cut as deeply as it should have, perhaps her axe is dull.
Maikill concentrates on the battle, yet the regrets spoken by his opponent have trickled down to his consciousness.
"Drop axe and live or I kill you." he sputters out between feints and swings.
He swings his axe will all his mighty rage at her, and will attempt to turn the axe at the last moment if she drops her weapon.
Hit AC 22 Damage 18
Xeron AC AC16 HP 11/13 d20+4=8 ; Monday December 14th, 2009 8:48:11 PM
Xeron screams as the dagger enters his leg. He pulls it out and throws it back at a running Lilly. "Thanks for the gift but it looks better on you.
(Throw dagger: 1d20 + 4 = 8). However, due to the excruciating pain, his throw is way of its marks.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20=13 ; d20-2=5 ; d20+3=15 ; 2d6+3=6 ; 2d6+3=6 ; Monday December 14th, 2009 8:51:45 PM
Seeing the groups enemies begin to run gives the Taur renewed strength and causes him to roar in victory. Taking a wild swing at Burwotti as he tumbles away, the minotaur feels another solid connection, however it is not enough to penetrate the Halflings armor (AoA=15). Before he can curse the lack of power behind his hit, he feels a magical force hit him in the chest followed immediately by a blade piercing his amour and cutting deep into his chest. Teetering on the edge of consciousness, Bosk begins praying to Gargul to heal his wounds. Amazed at how quickly the Lord of Life and Death answered his prayer, the taur realizes that once again Grendel had come to his aid and that it was her magic and not his which had saved him.
Feeling his strength return, the Taur continues to battle. Calling to his comrade he yells, Maikill, I could use some help over hear. Take care of her and get the guy in the center. With a might swing of his mace he makes a solid connection with Jillianatk=16. Hoping to finish her off quickly with the point of his horn the minotaur swings his head sharply and aims for Jillian's chest. However, be it from loss of blood or the excitement of the moment his attack misses completely.
AoA #5 Burwotti d20+3= 15 most likely a miss unless Xeron's AoA somehow helps dmg 2d6+3= 6
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+1=13 ; d20+1=9 ; Monday December 14th, 2009 9:53:45 PM
Beriothian takes his five foot step towards the fleeing Lilly and attacks for all he's worth, but the halfling is too flexible for him to land a hit on
attack 1=13 attack 2=9
What weapons are you using? Rapier and dagger? you do not have two weapon fighting so there are massive penalties involved. Also, your feat is improved init, which doesn't come in that handy in this game since we only roll once, if you would like to change it to something else, LMK. -- DM Jim
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d20+4=18 ; d8+2=3 ; Tuesday December 15th, 2009 12:27:32 PM
Valla smiles as he sees his foe turn to run after dealing a crushing blow. Why run now? Scared to meet your makers? The elf hardly notices Bosk being sliced and pummeld by the magic missile. But when Grendel catches his attention and motions for him to help out the big guy, Valla nods. His face turns a bit more serious and Valla takes matters into his own hands. He runs past Beri as the fellow elf fails to connect to fleeing Lilly; He runs with his longsword held in a striking position; as soon as he is in range he swings his deadly blade at Jillian; Die thief! He screams as his blade connects and rips through her chain shirt. Valla sees the blood spill to the ground and his face once again turns serious.
Don't let them get away! If we do, this will not end this day; the Noodle Gang must fall! Valla points to the fleeing Cade; Someone after him!
Actions: Move to O,11 Atk: MW LongSword: Hit AC 18; 3 damage
Round 4 -- DM JIM d20+4=19 ; d8+2=7 ; d20+5=14 ; d20+6=20 ; d4+1=3 ; Tuesday December 15th, 2009 7:21:18 PM
Painfully taking half of Maikill's wound, Grendel once again heals Bosk's new wounds, letting the Taur know that she can't keep doing it. Yelling to her companions to let the halflings run, Grendel stays where she is.
Through the haze of the red rage, Maikill heard something akin to regret, or was it his own. Offering the female half-orc a chance at life through gritted teeth, Maikill's mind had no patience to wait for an answer. His axe swung of it's own accord almost as it cleaved deep into the shoulder of Zimina, at a 45 degree angle, traveling deep down into her lungs, killing her instantly.
Thanking Lilly for the gift of her dagger in his leg, Xeron throws it back, but misses badly.
Taking a swipe at Burwotti as he tumbled away and missing, Bosk immediately turned his attention back to Jillian. Calling out to Maikill for some help, Bosk brings his mornstar to bear once more and strikes a glancing blow against his warrior foe. His horn attack fairs less than adequate.
Beri attempts to take a swipe at Lilly, but finds her much too agile an opponent to hit.
Talking smack and reminding his companions that their foes all had to die, Valla rushes Jillian and slashes her arm as he engages her, but it's still not enough to drop her.
Cade runs away, he's out of spells and he's no archer.
Hemust once again wounds Bosks, his longsword now drenched with the Taur's blood.(-7hp)
Jillian is on her last legs; she doesn't know she's been basically abandoned by half her crew, but with Hemust beside her, she keeps fighting. Unfortunately, today is not her day and she once again fails to penetrate Bosk's armor.
Burwotti was on the edge of death, but he had to help his companions, didn't he? Taking a 5ft step backwards, he took out his sling, loaded a bullet and sent it flying into the unarmored commoner standing behind Bosk and healing him. The bullet found it's mark, grazing Grendel's back.(-3hp)
Lilly wasn't about to die today and so she decided to withdraw from the battle, running as fast as she could down around the building that was in front of her and Beri.
J= Jacob the Lesser Z= Zamnoodle, male gnome; studded armor, whip 1= Zimina,female half-orc; hide armor, greataxe 2= Cade, male halfling; no armor 3= Hemust, male half-elf; breastplate, longsword, longbow 4= Jillian, female human; chain shirt, bastard sword, longbow 5= Burwotti, male halfling; studded leather, short sword, sling 6= Lilly, female halfling; studded leather, bandolier of daggers, sling
Maikill HP (26)22/28, AC15 rage 4/8 d20+10=26 ; d12+7=16 ; Tuesday December 15th, 2009 7:54:07 PM
His moment of humanity gone, Maikill continues his rage as he steps forward to attack Hemust. Hate for those who oppose him boils over, and he swings his axe at the half-elf. His axe swings true and he feels the satisfying crunch of bone at the end of his axe.
Hit AC 26 Damage 16
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Tuesday December 15th, 2009 7:55:08 PM
ooc: I meant AoO, not AoA.
No, she used a withdraw action and avoids an AoO from you. -- Dm Jim
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Tuesday December 15th, 2009 9:24:04 PM
Beri sees Lilly turn tail and run from the battle. It is starting to become obvious that he is frusterated that his sword has yet to penetrate the flesh of an opponent. "Come back here, I'm not done killing you!" Beri takes a quick glance in Bosk's direction. The massive taur has taken a beating, but from the bodies on the ground it appears that the skirmish to his has swayed in their favor. Beriothian takes a step forward, dropping his rapier at his feet. In one fluid motion his hand swings up and removes the cross bow from it's place on it's shoulder.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+5=9 ; Tuesday December 15th, 2009 9:27:27 PM
...turning the corner a bit too quickly he fires a shot half at the fleeing halfling.
hit = d20+5=9 ; ooc: I hate my laptop's touchpad
Xeron AC AC16 HP 11/13 d20=11 ; Wednesday December 16th, 2009 9:59:22 AM
Xeron sees the bloodshed around the taur and the barbarian and tries to stop it. "[b]Jilian, give up. Half of your crew has ran away and the other half is dead. If you give up now, you will lose your weapons and armor but you will still have your life. [b/]"
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 0 = 11
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 d4=2 ; Wednesday December 16th, 2009 12:34:30 PM
Grendel winces as the sling stone stings her in the back. "Little Runt!" she grunts out as she grabs her wounded back with a free hand. Though she'd love to engage the little pest, she knows Bosk can't stand another round or two more of this fight without falling. She had to do something and she had to do it now! "Hopefully the little menace will run away when his friends fall rather than sting me again..."
Unable to continue healing the great 'taur, Grendel goes on the offensive. Sliding past Xeron as he attempts to use words, Grendel smiles mischievously to herself. "I've got some words..." When in place she begins to call forth words of power. Spreading her fingers apart infront of her with thumbs touched together, they begin to glow like embers in a fire. A moment later a blast of fire envelopes her foes.
========= Move Action: Move 20' to N12. Standard Action: Cast Burning Hands. (This hits the following squares: N11, M10, N10, O10, M9, N9, O9) Damage: 2hp (Reflex Save for half, DC 14) *Also lights any flamable items within the area* (Takes a standard action to put out flames.)
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d8+1=5 ; Wednesday December 16th, 2009 2:30:44 PM
Feeling Hemust's sword cut deep into him yet again, the Taur decides that he has had enough. No longer caring for his own safety he lifts his Morning Star high into the air, determined to place all his strength behind his next swing. The people of this town need someone who is willing to stand up for them to people like this. I will bring honor to my Father's name.
Just as he is about to bring his morning star down upon his attacker, concentrating all of his fury into on deadly blow, Bosk sees Grendel run to the front line as a cone of fire erupts from her hands. Just as suddenly as his rage had built up it dissipated back to wherever it had come. Witnessing the orc's selfless action remind him that he is now part of a team. The cleric reprimands himself for his thoughtlessness. If Grendel is out of healing spells that means that the blessings that Gargul has bestowed upon me are the only ones left to keep us from his judgment. No wonder Grendel has readily placed herself in harms way without any armor. By the Eye of Gargul, may I be more open to seeing the groups needs and more willing to put their needs ahead of my own. Lowering his weapon, the cleric begins to pray for healing and once again feels his wounds begin to knit themselves back up. Be it by prayer or by steel I will protect his group.
If Grendel's attack killed Jillian, Bosk will move to M,N/9,10 in order to get into Flanking position on Hemust (Maikill should be opposite him).
Standard Action: Spontaneously Cast CLW on Bosk (himself) in place of Shield of Faith. (Healed 5 hp)
I won't be able to post the turn for a couple of hours, so...Casting a spell while in a threatened square gives your opponent an AoO against you. You have two opponents, that means two AoO's against you. You might want to change your actions before I post the turn. -- DM Jim
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20+3=11 ; Wednesday December 16th, 2009 4:15:23 PM
Errr....what I meant to say was fight defensively and attack Jillian.
Did you mean 'cast defensively' so Jillian doesn't get an AoO on you? If so, your concentration check has a modifier of +7... so you only need an 8 or higher to succeed (DC15). -ADM Jay
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d4+1=5 ; Wednesday December 16th, 2009 4:55:48 PM
Cursing himself for dropping his bow to the ground a few yards behind him, Valla makes a 5' step backwards, away from the engaged enemies and Bosk. He then turns around and sees Burwotti and Lilly moving fast, and away from the battle. Survivors will only cause more problems in the very near future, this band of idiots must be eliminated...
Valla nearly screams the incantations and flows through the simply movements; sending an energy bolt flying from the palm of his hand, the Magic Missile aimed at Lilly smashes into the halflings back. Valla prays her footsteps are now limited, if not done for...
Slowly he turns his gaze toward Burwotti; Stand and fight you coward!
Actions: 5' step to N,12 Move to M,11 Cast: Magic Missile at #6 (Lilly) Deals 5 damage
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells d20+7=13 ; Wednesday December 16th, 2009 4:58:33 PM
ooc: yes, thats what I would like to do.
Round 5 -- DM JIM d20+3=20 ; d20+2=7 ; d20+4=14 ; d20+5=6 ; d20+4=18 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+5=13 ; d10+4=12 ; Wednesday December 16th, 2009 7:32:39 PM Maikill continues to see red as he jumps forward and onto the lifeless body of Zamnoodle to engage Hemust, his axe cleaving deep through the man's left arm.
Dropping his rapier, Beri tries to get his crossbow out and loaded to fire at the fleeing Lilly, but is having a slow time of it.(you need a +1 bab to draw a weapon as a free action).
Trying to use diplomacy to stop the battle, Xeron pleads to Jillian to surrender, but it only serves to infuriate her more. (diplomacy checks taking 1 round have a -10 modifier).
Grendel decides to go on the offense after getting pegged in the back by Burwotti. Rounding Bosk, she unleashes a fan of burning flame that singes both Hemust and Jillian.
Adrenaline pumping through his veins, Valla invokes a magic missile and sends it straight int he back of the fleeing Lilly, dropping her to the ground like a sack of potatoes. (you cannot take a 5ft step and then move, one or the other).
Bosk see's the situation unfolding and knows that Grendel has gone on the offensive, meaning he would not be getting healed anytime soon by her. Attempting to cast defensively, Bosk fails and is nearly rewarded by two painful sword attacks from Jillian and Hemust. His subconscious brain wonders why he just didn't take a 5ft step back and invoke the prayer of healing--he would still be in striking range since he was so large. Fortunately he gets the prayer off and is healed somewhat.
Hemust is determined to finish off the huge Taur, but his sword this time glances off Bosk's armor.
Screaming wildly, which is probably throwing Hemust off, Jillian finally defeats Bosk's armor as her bastard sword drives deep into his chest (-12hp), dropping him to the ground. It was lucky for Jillian that Valla, who is so close, didn't choose to use his spell on her.
Burwotti decides that fleeing is the better part of valor and runs around the corner of the building he was at and out of sight.
J= Jacob the Lesser Z= Zamnoodle, male gnome; studded armor, whip 1= Zimina,female half-orc; hide armor, greataxe 2= Cade, male halfling; no armor 3= Hemust, male half-elf; breastplate, longsword, longbow 4= Jillian, female human; chain shirt, bastard sword, longbow 5= Burwotti, male halfling; studded leather, short sword, sling 6= Lilly, female halfling; studded leather, bandolier of daggers, sling
Xeron AC AC16 HP 11/13 d20+2=16 ; d6=4 ; Wednesday December 16th, 2009 9:59:35 PM
Xeron steps towards Jillian and attacks her with his rapier "I am sorry but you had your chance to have your life and freedom. Now you have nothing left as you will die here or in jail "
He sees the rapier pierce the woman armor and sadness enters his eyes as violence has won over civility.
Attack: 1d20 + 2 = 16 Damages: 1d6 = 4
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 d20+4=24 ; d20+4=16 ; d4+3=6 ; d4=1 ; Wednesday December 16th, 2009 10:06:31 PM
Grendel's eyes flash red. Everything in her blood screams charge but her calculating mind takes her on another path. As she goes she looks to the others and screams, "Flank! Get stuck in somewhere!"
Her actions are an example as she pulls up next to Hemust and actively flanks with Maikill. With a flash of her dagger she finds and opening and plunges it into a weak joint with both hands, buring the weapon to it's hilt with a solid impact. Knowing that she can't afford to get hit again and that Bosk is in dire need of healing she screams at the top of her lungs at the remaining combatants, exhausted and on the brink of bleeding out herself.
========= Move Action: 20' move: M11 to M10 to N9. Standard Action: Attack Hemust with her dagger using both hands. Attack roll: 24 (nat 20!) Crit Threat: Hit AC16 Damage: 10 hps (forgot the +3 on the crit damage)
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+5=6 ; Wednesday December 16th, 2009 10:52:16 PM
Beriothian sees Lilly dying on the ground and turns to help his comrades. He moves forward into flanking distance so that Jillian is between him and Maikill. From his distance he has a clear shot at her heart. He takes aim and pulls the trigger.... nothing happens. He pulls the trigger twice more, but the crossbow is jammed. He smacks the side of the cross bow, fixing the weapon and sending the bolt flying uselessly into the mud in front of him.
I must remember to try to do something to gain Wardd's favor when this battle is over, he seems pretty angry with me.
To hit: d20+5=6
Maikill HP (26)22/28, AC15 rage 5/8 d20+12=17 ; d12+7=8 ; Wednesday December 16th, 2009 11:59:22 PM
With alarm Maikill sees Grendel come into the battle without armor. He must end this quick, luckily Grendel has taken some of Hemust's attention and his axe hits.
Hit AC 17 Damage 8
Battle Resolved -- DM JIM Thursday December 17th, 2009 4:25:41 AM
In a stunning turn of events, Xeron regretfully lunges forward and skewers Jillian, sending her into unconscious agony at the end of his blade. At the same moment, Grendel yells for back up as she plunges her dagger deep into and past Hemust's collar bone, sending spurts of blood up her blade hanging in midair until it splashed down on her-- Hemust was out of the fight. Beri cursed his luck as Maikill stood poised over Hemust's body, just in case he tried to get up.
The fight was over and there were several bleeding and dead. Damage Taken ------------------ Zamnoodle: DEAD Burwotti (AC17): -8hp, -4hp Zimina (AC13): -16hp, -18hp DEAD Jillian (AC16): -11hp, -6hp, -3hp,-2hp,-6hp DYING Lilly (AC17): -7hp,-5hp DYING Hemust (AC16): -16hp,-1hp,-10hp DYING
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Thursday December 17th, 2009 9:56:27 AM
Grendel moves over the battlefield, using some of the minor boons she has left. First she goes to Bosk and stabilizes him immediately. Then she roams over to those who assaulted them in the street and finds some hanging on to life by a thread. She whispers a prayer of mercy over them and attends their wounds with the gifts of Flower. "After-all, these were children of some mother... somewhere... who would feel the pain of their loss. Flower Forbid!"
Turning to the others she gives the following suggestion, "Loot the dead, drag the survivors back into the house. It'll take two of us to move Bosk. Keep an eye out for the mage and the halfling that got away, they might seek vengence for the loss of their comrades."
====================== Spontaneously cast Cure Minor Wounds on Bosk, Hemust, and Jillian in that order. And with that, Grendel is completely out of healing magic for the day.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 11/13 Thursday December 17th, 2009 11:13:25 AM
Xeron watches Grendel heal her attacker and the sight still surprises him. He will likely never get used to such a good treatment of the ennemies.
He approaches the fallen taur and pets the furry head "Let me see if I can find a potion to bring you back to health, at least to make you available to walk. I do not feel like carrying you. "
He goes on and starts looking for any potion or scroll which could be a cure one. If he finds any, he will bring them to Grendel and asks if she can recognize them.
Maikill HP 22/28, AC15 fatigued Thursday December 17th, 2009 11:49:46 AM
Maikill stands over the fallen Hemust and breathes heavily. Slowly his shoulders relax and the look of wild rage leaves his eyes.
"Why they attack, why they die?"
looking carefully at Grendel he asks:
"You save Bosk? You hurt like me, hit by axe too. Same place? He no have axe, only her."
Maikill stands there with a confused look on his face and snaps out of it when Grendel calls for help moving people.
"I help move Bosk."
He pulls and shakes his head.
"Need help, he heavy."
OOC: I can drag 1000 pounds, Bosk is 1400 pounds.
The Dead and the Wounded -- DM JIM Thursday December 17th, 2009 12:25:56 PM
For a moment there the ivy dyed the evergreen trunk red - Rando, 1686
In another act of compassion, Grendel stabilizes not only friend, but also foes, all except Lilly who lays face down in the mud down the street--her fate will undoubtedly be a cruel one if left to the vices that roam the street.
On Zamnoodle and Zimina you find a small sized suit of studded leather armor, a medium sized set of hide armor that is really really stinky, one whip, one greataxe, two daggers and 420gp in assorted coins.
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Thursday December 17th, 2009 12:46:52 PM
ooc: Ooops... ment to catch everyone. I'll hit Lilly last with my healer's kit and take 10 on the check for an auto-success to Stabilize her.
Are you doing this alone? She is down the street and Burwotti was heading in that direction last you saw him. -- Dm Jim
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 17 of 17 Spells Thursday December 17th, 2009 12:57:07 PM
Laying in the blackness, unaware of his surroundings and with nothing but his thoughts to accompany him, the 'taur replays his final last battle in his head. Why didn't I take a step back to before healing myself? Surely with half of their group dead or running no one would not have mistaken it as cowardice or a retreat. I have got to quit mistaking my pride for honor. There is no honor in a stupid and avoidable death. Next time, if Gargul will have mercy and allow it, I need to take advantage of my height and reach. I also need to get used to fighting in a group, my tactics are not taking advantage of the situation. I should have reached across the gnome and helped Maikill finish off Zamina, or better yet pushed through the group to get behind them and allow our the others to get them from behind. If I am going to get surrounded and act as a meat shield, I can at least make it easier for the others to take them down. After putting aside his regrets from the ill-fated battle, the cleric begins to find peace. As he prepares his soul through prayer and meditation on remaining thought lingers in his mind. Gargul has not called me yet. There is still a chance...
It is a %roll. You regain consciousness. DM Jim
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Thursday December 17th, 2009 1:16:13 PM
As much as Grendel would like to wait, a person bleeding out on the street may not have as much time. If she falls while working as a healer then Flower wills it and Mud Town is a worse place than I imagined. She will call out to the others as she heads over toward Lilly. "Hey boys... watch my back, I don't want to be surprised while I'm healing the halfling over here."
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d20+1=17 ; Thursday December 17th, 2009 1:31:39 PM
Valla watches the remaining foes drop to the ground with horrific wounds, the elf only shakes his head and ponders silently as he walks to retrieve his bow. Were coming together as a group, but still need a bit of tactics work... This could have went much worse, luckily we are all alive at least. Poor Bosk; Im no use in helping to move or heal the Taur... He musn't end up like our foes though. Bosk is a good man, and deserves to walk this lawless town with us... Or maybe we deserve his help, yes... Thats the better way to look at it...
After getting his bow back onto his back, Valla sheaths his sword and looks at the entire group, Im worried, The mage and what looked to me another Rogue has escaped. Im sure this isn't the extent of Zam's gang. Maikill and Grendel should take Bosk back inside the house; Me, Xeron and Beri should stay out here, to keep a look out and to gather a bit more information about the new found dead man... Let Bosk rest as much as he needs; Maikill and Grendel can watch and protect him, and rest in shifts if need be...
The still enraged elf eyes the merchant that Zam's gang was threating. Walking up to the man with obvious distaste on his face, mixed with the horrid scars, Valla looks quite angry indeed. Mumbling to Xeron, I think this man may be of some use to us... At least in terms of staying employed...
Valla strolls up to Jacob the Lesser. Well met human. Im Valla, former employee of Venbolio Penn. Whether or not you were interested in protection before, Im sure the recent events have changed your mind. The elf sticks out a hand to greet Jacob. A smirk appears on his face as he continues, What do you say, for starters, you help us heal our comrade; since he did fall protecting you. After which we could discuss a fair pay for our group, of course it would be less than 1000gp per day; but were not cheap mind you...
Diplomacy: d20+1=17
The Dead and the Wounded -- DM JIM d100=79 ; d100=88 ; d100=90 ; d6=2 ; d20+9=25 ; d20=2 ; Thursday December 17th, 2009 1:34:01 PM
Several passersby stop and stare to see what Grendel is doing to the helpless Lilly and are surprised to see the half-orc patching her up. With nothing exciting left to see, the passersby keep moving, leaving Grendel to her administrations.
Down the street, Burwotti remains hidden(DC25) behind a stack of crates, noting what Grendel is doing. The thought of thumping her with a sling bullet came to mind but she was helping Lilly. He would have to keep an eye on them from a distance, after all, he couldn't abandon her, she was his sister--and where in the heck was his brother, Cade? Good for nothing...
Lilly is light enough to be picked up and carried back to the shop. None of the three foes who have been stabilized are conscious.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d20+4=8 ; d20+5=15 ; Thursday December 17th, 2009 1:34:22 PM
OOC: I posted as Grendel post... So:
Valla nods to Grendel and takes a look around, keeping alert to everthing he possibly can at one time... Listen: d20+4=8 Spot: d20+5=15
Hero points -- DM JIM Thursday December 17th, 2009 1:48:00 PM
I am awarding Grendel 1 hero point for keeping Bosk alive for so long and showing compassion for the enemy. Any nominations for anyone else?
Remember, you can NOT have more hero points than you have levels, so 2 Hero Points is the max for many of you right now. If you are awarded a Hero Point and you're at your max, you can use it immediately(meaning your next post) for a +3 on your die roll.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 5 of 20 Spells d8+1=7 ; Thursday December 17th, 2009 1:51:21 PM
As the darkness gives way to the gray light of Mud Town, he sees Maikill standing over him saying "Need help, he heavy." Not wanting to be a burden upon the group, or perceiving the half-orc as being particularly gentle, the cleric begins to speak. Thanks for the offer Maikill, but I think I can handle it from here. Closing his eyes slightly, the cleric begins once again to pray to Gargul. Lord, Judger of Souls and weigher of life and death, I thank you for your mercy this day. I ask for your blessing that I may be healed and able to carry out your will. Please, show me your path that I may better serve you. And I thank you once again for watching over me, the least deserving of your servants. As the cleric finishes his prayer he stands and thanks those who have helped him. Grendel, I am sure that it is you I have to thank for saving me. I will never forget this, and will find a way repay you. In the meantime, I still have the ability to heal a few others it they are in need. Please, let me know how I may help.
Bosk has three CmW and one CLW
CLW d8+1=7
Jacob the Lesser -- DM JIM Thursday December 17th, 2009 1:57:46 PM
Jacob listens with intent to Valla's words and smiles, "That was just great, very good, thank you so much for helping me out with those ruffians. As for paying for healing, I'm really not that rich. I passed a local healer/barber just a few minutes ago and they listed theur prices for a cure light wounds at 100gp a prayer. That's way too rich for my blood."
Jacob was dressed well, better than the common man and better than some merchants, but he was without an entourage or even a horse. "Oh forgive my manners, I am Jacob of Greendale, scholar by trade, but an errand boy in this case. My father has me delivering a 'package' for him to Magister Alistair in Hook City proper. Say, I have a writ of conveyance in my name, it allows me to enter the city unmolested by the usual method, but I still have to wait my turn to get in. It also allows me to bring along my personal bodyguard, would that help in the payment of our agreement?"
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Thursday December 17th, 2009 2:07:24 PM
Grendel smiles and nods. "I'm just glad I don't have to carry you into the house now you big lughead." With a laugh she drops the magic on her hat of disguise and lifts Lilly in her arms. "If you'd help me bring the wounded indoors, I'd appreciate it. Maikill has got a pretty nasty wound and I recall Xeron getting sliced by a dagger, make sure they're back in shape. I'm of little use other than tending the wounded until tomorrow, and I can heal up then."
As Grendel walks towards the house they have 'secured' she thinks of something else. "I might be able to help with checking out the loot. Strip the bodies and let me see what kinds of trinkets we picked up. Make sure the bodies are dumped rather quickly afterward."
Xeron AC AC16 HP 11/13 Thursday December 17th, 2009 2:09:40 PM
Xeron lets Grendel go heal the people that tried to kill. He shakes his head as he does not understand and he knows he never will. Having not find any potions nor scrolls, he leaves the rest in the mud as he decided to give up his corpse robbing way.
He listens to Jacob and then adds "We will protect you and in exchange, you will give us what you think it is worth to you. If it is only the access to Hook City, so be it. " He smiles because he knows how much access to Hook City is worth.
"Now, if you want a place to stay, there is this little shop we broke in, the owner got his brain eaten and has no heir we know about so you could stay there until it is time for you to do your delivery."
And then his whispers to Jacob "And the cleric "woman" is not a woman. She is an half-orc. You would not know it from her manners but she is. Shall I show you the way to our "place" "
Hero Points -- DM JIM Thursday December 17th, 2009 2:42:04 PM
Augh, not remembering stuff too well today... max hero points are character level +1 :)
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 d20+7=11 ; Thursday December 17th, 2009 3:02:09 PM
Grendel is going to chat it up with Jacob the Lesser once he's inside their little house. She's curious about his scholarly pursuits and any information regarding Hook City. She'll use the little bits of charm she's picked up from Flower's faithful to coax as much information from him as he is willing to give.
After a couple of minutes getting rudimentary information she considers using her last spell of the day to Charm him but then thinks twice about it. "After all...", she thinks, "He's already going to get us into Hook City."
================== Diplomacy check: 1d20+4 (ranks), +3(Hero Point immediately wasted... I mean... used.) = 11.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d20+1=14 ; Thursday December 17th, 2009 4:24:57 PM
Valla smiles as the man takes to him rather nicely, far nicer than Valla had expected anyways. Totally oblivious to anything the bodies of foes might have on them. Not knowing Bosk is back on his feet, and not knowing if anyone even listened much less agreed with his plan.
Yes, Jacob; Getting our band into Hook City would be a good reward indeed. Assuming it doesn't cost much for us to keep you alive that is.. Now, I know most of these types of things are kept with tight lips, but in order for us to keep you out of harms way, and know what might attack you, we'd need to know a small bit of information. First off, Who is Magistar Alistar exactly? What does he do? What is he in charge of? These things would help us know who might attack you. Secondly, what is the package? Or at least a general idea of what it is. This will help us figure out why people might attack you.
After the Reply from Jacob, Valla turns, and speaks loud enough for everyone to hear him. Ok guys, helping this scholar here, and getting into Hook City Proper are good ideas, opportunities and probably the best thing for us to do. Get out of Mud Town... But, there is still the matter of the Brain Eater... Turning back to Jacob, Have you heard anything of a Brain Eater Mr. Jacob? Anything at all? Or about the merchant that just died last night?
Diplomacy: d20+1=14
Maikill HP 22/28, AC15 fatigued Thursday December 17th, 2009 4:33:22 PM
Relieved, Maikill steps back from Bosk. The thought of moving him in his exhausted state made him well, exhausted. Instead, Maikill will carry the Hemust back to the store. He will go back and carry another if needed. When all are safely back at the relative safety of the merchant's shop he will go up to Grendel and take a careful look at her wound. He scratches his head finds a place to sit for awhile and think.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 5 of 20 Spells d8+1=8 ; d20+1=20 ; Thursday December 17th, 2009 5:28:00 PM
Taking Grendel's advise, Bosk looks over Maikill and Xeron before he comes to the realization that he himself was the most highly wounded. [i]Am I the only one to sustain substantial damage during the battle? What am I doing wrong? I am definitely going to have to be more careful in the future.[/b] Using his last big spell of the day the minotaur heals himself once again (CLW d8+1=8) before walking over to heal Xeron with his last two CmW. When he is finished he will see if he can borrow one of the groups rope and will then bind Use Rope =20 the captives and carry the remaining prisoners back to the house.
Back in the shop Bosk approaches Grendel. I was just wondering, are you able to identify the gem from the puzzle box or determine if it is magic? If not, perhaps we should take it to the catacombs and have it identified. ===========================================
ClW d8+1 =8 Use Rope d20+1=20
=========================================== Can I purchase the following items either here or from the catacombs, now or whenever our characters get time or gather info in the city next.
2 Cure Light Wounds Potions 50gp each 2 Mage armor potions 50gp each Caltrops 1gp 50ft Rope 10gp
Total 211gp
There is one set of caltrops and a 50ft rope in the Black Harris shop. The potions are not available yet. DM Jim
I don't believe we have access to the catacombs yet. -ADM Jay
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Thursday December 17th, 2009 6:05:15 PM
Xeron thanks the Taur for healing his leg. He watches with amusement and bewilderment as the same people who tried to rob the merchant and kill the group are now beeing healed in the safe house the group broke into. These various definitions of what a good person can and cannot do is giving the rogue an headache. He is still not why it is okay to be good and loot the dead. He always thought that robbing the dead was what he did as a bad guy.
He decides to stand by the door of the safe house and check the eye candy that might pass by. With the departure of Sanji, the only woman left is Grendel and half-orcs are not his taste.
He stands there, waiting for the merchant to get them in Hook City.
"May be I can sneak in to Pleasure Alley tonight. May be Valla will be up for it. Of all of them, he is the most likely to understand .... "
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d100=77 Thursday December 17th, 2009 8:29:33 PM
With the battle over Beriothian puts his crossbow back over his shoulder and retrieves his rapier. He bends down and looks for the bolt from his cross bow, if he finds it in good condition he will return it to his quiver. After collecting his equipment he notices that the party is already healed and moving people to the store
How long did it take me to find that crossbow bolt? Man these guys are fast.
Not that long, you're just slow :) The bolt is still in useable condition. DM Jim
ooc: Did the party not loot the bodies, or is it just Xeron who didn't?
As far as I know, only the dead have been looted/searched. Dm Jim
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Thursday December 17th, 2009 9:01:12 PM
ooc: I meant the dead bodies. Xeron said he left the rest in the mud, I just wanted to make sure somebody had the loot ;)
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Friday December 18th, 2009 8:54:20 AM
While providing long term care for the prisoners, Grendel will disarm them and strip them down to basic undergarments. She'll also do a pretty good search of them to make sure that they do not have anything hidden on their persons. She also nods to Bosk as he binds them. "Thanks... I was just about to ask if anyone was handy with a rope."
When asked about the gem from the puzzlebox, Grendel nods. "Yes, I can identify it but I'll need a 100gp pearl and a day to rest and renew my magic."
===================== Search check: Take 20 +3 = 23.
Also, could I get a list of gear from the dead & prisoners please?
Back at Blacks -- DM JIM Friday December 18th, 2009 2:20:07 PM
It was barely noon before the group was back inside Black Harris' shop. They had been outside for what, five minutes before a fight broke out? As Grendel thought in the back of her mind, it was a wonder that anyone was still alive in Mudtown with all the killing that goes on here. Valla was unable to get any answers from Jacob before everyone was brought back in, but he was willing to answer them now if asked.
Stripped to their undergarments and searched, the groups prisoners lay on the shops floor, tied securely to prevent escape. Outside the Wold went on as if nothing had happened; There were a few people who had noticed that the group had taken over Black Harris' shop and surely the word would get out and perhaps there would be a few angry citizens that would grumble that the group didn't wait the customary three days, but there wasn't anyone who would likely contest it--both Zam's and the Ironband had been defeated and they were at the time, the strongest groups in the neighborhood--if the shop had been a few blocks down, the story would have been different.
Soon enough the prisoners regain consciousness one after the other. "Ugh, my aching head," Hemust moans out. "At least your face is okay, I mean it still looks like crap." Jillian retorts. "Hey, whats your problem Jill, that time of the month?" "If I wasn't tied up, I'd kick your arse all over this place." "Oh geez, come on you two," moans Lilly plaintiffly, "do you guys ever stop needling each other?" "She started it Lil, never lets up." "I'm just keeping it real, and you're real ugly." "Yeah, whateva, like I give a crap what you think." "Uh huh, that's not what you said last night, remember? Stars and moon and all that, what's wrong, can't remember?" "Oh I remember, I remember I was drunk and you took advantage of me." "Of you? You wish, loser."
Hemust looks at the group surrounding them and asks dejectedly, "So, what are you going to do with us?"
You find the following items in total: small studded armor, whip hide armor, greataxe breastplate, longsword, longbow chain shirt, bastard sword, longbow studded leather, bandolier of 8 daggers, sling 1038gp
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 d20+4=24 ; Friday December 18th, 2009 2:37:58 PM
Grendel just shakes her head at the three. "Shhhh... plenty of time to talk later. For now your bodies need to heal, so rest. You are safe here and will not be subject to revenge or abuse. You've already suffered the punishment for your mistakes, many of your comrades are dead and do not have the luxury of still drawing breath in these lands as you do. Perhaps something to seriously consider."
Looking at Jillian and Hemust she adds, "You two I would like to have a private conversation with later. Rest now and take comfort in each other's company a familiarity that you share with few, a lucky thing you both survived the battle against us."
==================== Diplomacy: 24 (Nat. 20!)
I'll RP this as long as you do Jim. =) Grendel will likely council these two about the teachings of Flower where it relates to intimacy and monogamous relationships.
Back at Blacks -- DM JIM d20+2=22 ; d20+2=17 ; d20+2=18 ; Friday December 18th, 2009 2:51:32 PM
All of them sense that Grendel is telling the truth, they give out a collective sigh at the thought of not being tortured, again.
"I thank you on all of our behalf," Hemust says. Jillian see's the rapport between the two and only sulks; Lilly on the other hand rolls over on her side, briefly commenting that her back hurts exactly where Valla shot her. Closing his eyes to rest, Hemust says to no one in particular, "Perhaps we should find a different line of work." Jill replies cooly, "And what are you going to do? You're only good with a sword, Hem." "I could find something, start a business, you know, well, not now." "Yeah, I'm pretty sure we're broke and weaponless now, not likely they'll just give us our stuff back. "Yup, that's the way of it." "We should have saved our money instead of spending it so wantonly." "Who's 'we?'" "What?" "Nothing."
Just then the door to the water closet opens up and Sanji steps out into the main room, mop in hand. "What in the heck is going on here? Who are they? And why is my floor covered in blood? You know how hard that is to clean? I'll never get that out of the rugs! Ugh!"
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Friday December 18th, 2009 3:03:04 PM
Grendel attempts to keep them talking. Since they seem a little 'loose-lipped' at the moment. "Surely you have talents other than your sword arm. You mentioned opening a business, what specifically were you thinking about?" Grendel slinks over to where the halfling lays and slides her onto her lap. Reaching into her healer's kit she dips her fingers in a soothing balm and slides her hand up the back of Lilly's shirt to rub it in where the wound is. Her hands are those of a skilled healer and her massage rubs the lotion deep into the tissue of the halfling's back.
Looking to Jillian she asks, "And you... what future is in store for a lady like yourself once you are free to walk as you please? Mud Town is a dangerous place, especially with that brain eater wandering loose."
=========================== Long Term Care (DC:15): Take 10 + 6(ranks & ability mod) = 16 Auto-success. (I can tend 6 patients at a time.)
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d20+1=7 ; d20+2=13 ; Friday December 18th, 2009 3:37:38 PM
Valla only shakes his head at Grendel as she cares for the foes. What in the Wold is that orc thinking? Those people tried to rob and kill Jacob, and then us as well... I'll never understand... She's like an odder version of Padre...
Only smirking a bit when Lilly moans about her back; What business would you three lugheads open? A Thieves outlet?
With a small chuckle, and a very proud face, because this is probably the best joke the elf has ever came up with! Valla makes his way to Jacob, again.
I know I was a bit forward at first, but this is information we need to know, or at least as much as we can... Do you know anything about the Brain Eater? Or about the Merchant that died last night; his name, type of wares, oddities about him? Habits maybe? Anything at all may be useful...
Diplomacy: 7 Sense Motive: 13
Noodle Gang -- DM JIM Friday December 18th, 2009 4:30:00 PM
"What are you...? Oh...oh, that's...right there..." Lilly closes her eyes as Grendel soothes away the pain. Hemust looks on perplexed, he wasn't sure why the half-orc was being so nice, but he sensed she was genuine. "Um, I don't know, maybe a little shop like this, general merchandise and all. There aren't many shops in town, mostly taverns. Funny thing is, we, well, Zam, thought about coming here last night and taking this place. Seems the early bird gets the worm and you guys made out." Hemust looks over the place, more in a general look to see what was here, not like a thief casing the joint. "I always knew Zam's mouth would get him killed." Hemust said in a melancholy voice. "It's not good to speak ill of the dead," quipped Jillian.
Jacob the Lesser -- DM JIM Friday December 18th, 2009 4:33:33 PM
Jacob looks shocked, "Brain-eater? What brain-eater? There's a brain-eater in town? What's it look like?" Gulping deeply, "I just got here last night, checked in at an inn down the street, then went this morning to get in and was told I had to take a number to get through the gate. Now I'm stuck here for two more days they said. Not good, not good." Jacob looked worried, he obviously didn't want to be in Mudtown now. His little adventure, or errand his father gave him, has turned into more than he truly expected or wanted.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 5 of 20 Spells d20+3=22 ; d20+4=19 ; Friday December 18th, 2009 5:21:47 PM
Seeing some of the supplies he needs, Bosk wonders if it would be wrong to borrow them until an owner of the shop is established. Who would I pay, myself? There really is no owner, not even our group. They said that the law is whoever claims it and can hold onto it. Besides, if I tell the groups we will have emptied out the store. If I borrow eleven gold in merchandise someone else will take fifteen and the next one hundred. It's probably best if I do not tell anyone. If an owner to the shop is declared I can return the merchandise or pay the owner. Technically its not breaking any laws.
As he is pondering taking the caltrops and rope the prisoners wake up and Grendel begins tending their wounds. Suddenly remembering that there were others around him, the minotaur decides to leave the merchandise.Odd, I am unwilling to take the merchandise with others around. It seems that any time I begin to rationalize an issue I seem more inclined to do something morally questionable.
Stepping away from the goods, Bosk sits back and listens as Grendel probes the prisoners for information with the skill of a surgeon wielding a scalpel. Realizing that he would only be in the way, the minotaur keeps his eyes and ears open in case the those that managed to escape are around.
Bosk will also look around the the shop for a 100gp pearl. He will then speak to the members of the party about using the pearl (if he finds one), or else about chipping in to buy one if he does not.
Listen d20+3=22 Spot d20+4=19
Searching and such -- DM JIM d20+7=26 ; d20+2=15 ; Friday December 18th, 2009 5:53:04 PM Bosk searches diligently as Grendel chats away, but the closest thing he finds to a pearl is a small music box inlaid with mother of pearl. As he passes the front window, who's shades had been parted by Xeron earlier, he does not notice the small halfling hiding across the street.
"What are they doing?" asks Cade. "Not sure, I don't hear any screaming," replies Burwotti, "maybe they're burying them in the basement." "Don't say that!" "Hush, you idiot!" "You hush, you, you coward!" "Hey, I'm not the first one to run away, Cade." "I was outta spells, still am. If I wasn't, I'd throw a fireball in there." "Yeah, right, maybe in a year or two if we're not dead. And yes, that would be your fault." "My fault, are you kidding me?" "No, you always run, you need to diversify, get something more to attack with instead of those stupid spells." "It was a stupid spell that took out Lilly, right?" Burwotti didn't answer, he remained still and watching. Cade sighed and adjusted the makeshift piece of crating he was hiding behind--badly hiding behind, but at least he was out of the line of sight of the shop. "What are we going to do, Burt?" "We watch and wait, Cade, just watch and wait."
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 d20+4=23 ; Friday December 18th, 2009 8:49:13 PM
Grendel nods to Jillian, "She's right you know, it's best to let the dead lie in peace without remembering their faults. Though I agree... there is enough work in Mud Town without shaking down an easy mark, I am sad that your leader resorted to such tactics." As she speaks she applies a compress to Lilly's back and gently sets her back in place. Looking about she sees that everyone is in a talkative mood rather than a restful one. "I think introductions are in order, makes conversation easier since we seem to be getting to know one another. I'm Grendel. The large 'taur over there is Bosk. The two elves are Valla and Berothian. The other Half-orc is Maikill and our token human friend is Xeron. Sanji was the girl with the mop earlier. For now I need to get lunch preparations started... and looking down at herself she comments, "Oh my, it looks like I need some cleaning up first." and with that she grabs her personal kit and heads to the bathroom.
Once inside the bathroom she secures the door with shaking hands. Pull it together girl! She turns, and seeing her reflection in the mirror she drops her kit and gasps. She carefully pulls her bloodied garments off, with silent tears streaming down her cheeks. These were not like the wounds she received in the tribe... these were injuries from weapons... weapons aimed at killing her. The clothes, crusted with dried blood, opened up scabs as they came off which sent waves of pain and nausea over her. It was one thing to heal the wounds of others... quite another to tend to oneself. As she opened up her healers kit her body began to shake from what otherwise would have been loud sobbing. They need you now to be strong... even more so then in battle. She cleaned the wounds, the bitter smelling oitment burning as it contacted her damaged flesh, and applied clean bandages to protect her while she healed naturally.
Looking at the pile of bloodied cloths she couldn't bring herself to put them back on. Instead she pulled out a pristine white dress, a holy garment of Flower she usually used only for ceremonies. Sliding into it she took some time to arrange her hair as the other priestesses did. Looking back in the mirror she studied the image for a long moment. A half-orc, dressed in pretty cloths just looked more hideous, and her cheeks felt the warm flow of fresh tears once again. Wiping them away she touched the hat of disguise and pictured herself wearing her traveling cloths, cleaned up of course... her body no longer injured from battle... and her face free of tears or the evidence of them. She quietly whispered, "Shizzle-bop" and all was well again.
A moment later she glides through the bathroom door and out amongst the others. With a smile she heads to the kitchen to cook up a darling breakfast using the very basics. After all, it's not the ingredients... it's the technique. She makes enough for a dozen people to eat to their heart's content.
==================== Profession (cook): 23
It should be noted that the hat of disguise looked like a helmet when first found, when when activated to use it's powers, it changes to match the disguise adopted, so Grendel doesn't have to be wearing a hat right now, it could be a circlet, tiara, etc... DM Jim
Maikill HP 28/28, AC15 Friday December 18th, 2009 10:23:42 PM
Maikill sits and wonders about recent events. He looks at the place where he was wounded and now healed. He remembers the wound on Grendel. She emerges from the water closet without a wound and looking refreshed. Perhaps he was wrong, maybe she did not suffer a similar wound after all. With a renewed look of confusion Maikill begins to clean and sharpen his axe. When that is done he will clean up as best as possible. When finished, he looks at the bound prisoners.
"I told her to drop her axe. I did not want to kill her. Why didn't she drop it?"
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Saturday December 19th, 2009 8:47:40 AM
Xeron smiles at Valla's joke "Good one, elf! You are the only one with a sense of humor left these days"
He moves away from Grendel as the half-orc goes on preaching. He does not understand that cleric and never will. He looks at the prisoners and points to Grendel and whispers "I am sorry. Sometimes death is a better fate ... "
< deleted... you did not make a spot roll-Dm Jim >
He goes inside and asks Jacob "So Sir, do we have a gig? If yes where is the cargo we are supposed to protect? "
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d20+1=13 ; Saturday December 19th, 2009 11:49:04 AM
Valla smiles back at Xeron; I Knew that one would come around... Nodding his head when the Rogue talks to the prisoners.
< deleted... Xeron did not make a Spot roll. -- DM Jim >
Turning his gaze to Jacob, from across the room, Valla gestures to everyone in the room; Yes, answer Xeron's question. Where is this package; and since you don't know anything about the brain eater or the dead merchant, then a few of us must leave, and gather information. Or all of us, and we can drag Jacob here along with us. It may actually be safer for him on the streets with all of us, than inside the house with only half of us... Suggestions?
Diplomacy: 13
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Saturday December 19th, 2009 11:59:20 AM
When Grendel emerges from the water closet Beriothian enters and cleans the mud from his face. The battle may have been won, but the unlucky streak he had out there was getting to him. He takes out a clean cloth and polished the silver buttons on his armor, saying a silent prayer to Wardd as he cleans each one that luck will be on his side the next battle.
< Deleted... Xeron did not make a Spot roll -- Dm Jim >
Bad posts and edits -- DM JIM Saturday December 19th, 2009 5:30:50 PM
Because Xeron's player did not notice the "he does not notice the small halfling hiding across the street" in my post and did not make a Spot roll, I've had to edit three players posts. Please be more diligent in reading my posts, thanks.
Prisoners -- DM JIM Saturday December 19th, 2009 5:37:51 PM
In reply to Maikill's question, Jillian says sternly, "Well, ya didn't give her much time, did ya?"
"Ahem..." interrupts Hemust, "What she means to say is that during the heat of battle, there isn't much time to think, to take in someone's words when an axe or swordblade is coming your way. Perhaps if you had moved away or said it louder and held back your attack, she would have taken you up on your offer. I don't know, I personally did not hear you say anything."
Jacob the Lesser -- DM JIM Saturday December 19th, 2009 5:45:06 PM
Jacob cocked an eyebrow; Was this some half-hearted attempt at diplomacy? Obviously the scarred elf wasn't trained in the fine art of speech and figured that a mere attempt at it, without taking care of what is actually said, was good enough. "Well, if you must know, I carry with me a magically locked strongbox that I am to deliver to Magister Alistair. I do not know what's in it, it's for his eyes only. Any further questions, oh silver-tongued elf?"
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Saturday December 19th, 2009 7:03:10 PM
Grendel chuckles as she listens to the conversations going on in the main room. Her preparations finished she calls out, "Lunch is up! Get it while it's hot!" and slides the plates full of salted pork and buttermilk biscuits onto the counter next to a stack of plates. She then loads three already full plates on one arm and saunters into the main room where everyone is gathered.
Taking a seat among the captives, she sets down a plate for each of them. "Alright, there are two ways we can do this... either I can feed you each by hand or you can offer me an oath that you will behave and remain seated."
//ooc: Sense Motive: (+3 mod... Jim can roll for each of them if any/all of them decide to lie) As long as it seems well, I will remove their bonds and watch over them while they eat.//
Once everyone is eating Grendel will again start-up some conversations. To Jacob the Lesser, "Once we get in Hook City with you, how long are we allowed to stay and will you need our protection during that time or after it is time to leave Hook City?" To the prisoners (who have not given their names in introduction yet... quite rude), "Two of your number turned tail and ran during our fight, both of them Halflings. Would you care for us to send them a message on your behalf?"
Prisoners and Jacob -- DM JIM Saturday December 19th, 2009 9:15:30 PM
The three preisoners look at each other, and each agree to behave. Grendel can detect no deception on their parts and set's them free. They immediately scramble for the counter and push each other out of the way to get to the biscuits. "Pure torture ma'am," Hemust says, "the smell of these biscuits were just driving me crazy." "You too?" asks Lilly as she doesn't even bother to grab a plate, just grabbing a hot biscuit in each hand. The fare that Grendel made came out well, the salt pork was salt pork, nothing much you could do with it--but the biscuits were to die for.
"Oh, where are our manners; the little one there is Lilly," Hemust says pointing to the halfling girl. "Mo mou mave many mavy?" Lilly asks through a stuffed mouth, a new biscuit in each hand. "I think she's asking if you have any gravy? Anyways, this is Jillian." "And we are not dating," Jillian interjects. "Okay... and I am Hemust. We all thank you for not killing us and for this splendid lunch."
Jacob laughs a little at the turn of events and helps himself to a biscuit, "Oh yes, these are heavenly!" As for Hook City, he gives what he knows, "You can stay as long as you like in Hook City, but it's costly I hear, don't know how much since I've never been inside, but my father talks about it from time to time. There's no loitering to had there, no sleeping on benches in the park or in alleyways and the city guard patrol the streets incessantly from what I was told. I'll probably need you to escort me all the way to Alistairs, after that, well, I guess we go seperate ways. My father told me Alistair would send me back, so...umm, there you have it." Jacob was by all designs an aristocrat, but an odd one. He wasn't arrogant nor wanted to stick his sword in someone at the first hint of a slight, in fact he was totally unarmed. He seemed the more scholarly type and a careful eye could see that in his heavy laden backpack, there were books shoved in it alongside the outline of a large 12"x24x6" strongbox.
"By the gods." "What's happening in there, Burt?" "They're feeding them, Lilly and the other two, Hemust and Jillian." "What? Feeding them?" "Yes, that's what I said." "What are they feeding them?" "Biscuits." "Biscuits?" "Biscuits." "Oh. Biscuits. I could go for a biscuit right now." "Well, why don't you conjure up one? Oh yeah, that's right, you're out of spells." "Hey, I don't see you getting any biscuits." "I'm not a stupid mage." "Whatever." "I wonder why they're feeding them." "Oh. My. Gods. They going to eat them. They're fattening them up for the slaughter." "Get real." "Look at what they are--Half-orcs and a Minotaur." "What about the other elves, and human?" "Cannibals." "Ah geez, not this again. Just because Uncle Liam was eaten by orcs, doesn't mean that these half-orcs are going to eat Lilly and the others." "It could happen!" "Shh, Cade. Just... be quiet." Burwotti continued to spy on the group from his hiding place while Cade fidgeted behind his makeshift crate, getting bored of hiding.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC15 d20+4=9 ; Saturday December 19th, 2009 11:10:45 PM
Maikill finishes his sharpening of his axe and cleaning of his equipment just as Grendel brings out the food. It seems it is difficult to get to food when halflings are hungry, but he manages to push forward and get some.
To Jillian's rebuke, he says "It is difficult as Hemust says to stop in the heat of battle. For me, the battle seems to control me. I wish she would have dropped her weapon quickly, but I am sure I did not give time. Perhaps you should think before using tricks to attack strangers. Oh, and I did not give you the option Hemust to live. You are alive by accident."
Maikill glances out the window but does not put much effort into it.
Spot 9
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Sunday December 20th, 2009 9:24:18 AM
Grendel just smiles as everyone helps themselves to her meal. It feels good to be appreciated and hopefully some of that goodness is contagious. Looking at Jacobs backpack perks her interest some. "Jacob, tell me of your father. Is he a scholar like yourself? What fields of learning pique your interest?"
============= Didn't feel the need for a diplomacy roll for conversation. If you need to make one, my mod is +4.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+7=17 ; d3=3 ; d20+7=13 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+7=8 ; Sunday December 20th, 2009 11:38:48 AM
Beirothian reaches past the ravenous halflings and makes sure to grab a large helping of pork and biscuits before it disappears. Not wanting to get constantly elbowed by their small guests Beri makes his way to an open part of the floor. Delicious meal Grendel, it's amazing what you can do with so little resources. He listens to the halflings praising the great meal. For a split second he thinks he hears it from outside. He is sure it's just his mind playing tricks on him, but he knows paranoia will start to get the better of him if he doesn't check the window.
ooc: I'm going to need to adjust the sensitivity of my touch pad, please ignore all but the first 2 d20s, the other rolls were unintended.
listen=13 spot=17
Jacob the Lesser and Prisoners -- DM JIM Sunday December 20th, 2009 2:23:16 PM
"My father?" Jacob replies, "He's landed gentry not too far from here to the south in the Sargrass plains. We have a small community there that harvests the grasses and sells in the markets here in Hook City. As for being a scholar, nay, his interests lie elsewhere. He carved himself out a life with his sword and I fear is quite dissappointed in me." Jacob briefly reflects on his father, then continues, "As for my areas of interest, I enjoy them all and enjoy reading very much. Would you like to see my books?" Before Grendel could answer, he had opened his pack and was fishing out his set of three books. "I only brought the first three of my complete set of Thornhill's Libri Scientia, it covers the areas of Arcana, Architecture and Dungeoneering (each is a masterwork tool +2 for those knowledge skills).
The three prisoners soon retake their positions on the floor, worn out from the exertions of almost having been killed and fighting for the biscuits. Lilly was a pretty little halfling with a sly look in her eyes, she would have to be watched carefully. Jillian was a fair looking human female with short cropped tousled blond hair and blue eyes, and could be quite the looker if dressed in a more attractive attire. Hemust was likewise fair in appearance, his half-elven features, short blond hair and hazel eyes, made for the kind of look most women swooned over.
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Sunday December 20th, 2009 9:37:46 PM
Grendel looks over the tomes that Jacob shows her. With a smile she peers through the one dealing with arcana for a common link to all of the Brain Eater occurances. "This one is more along my interests, though I will admit that I'd gladly read the others if time permitted. You know, if you have some coin on you I'm sure you could pick up more of this collection within Hook City. I hear the place is filled with all sorts of wonders."
Grabbing a biscuit and a bite of pork herself she sits down by the prisoners. "Hemust and Jillian, I do not wish to intrude but you two have made it public that there is a rift between you. Would either of you welcome the aid of Flower, goddess of Family and all Good Relationships, to mend your dispute? Truly, your circumstances are dire... both of you would be better served by leaning on each other for strength and support. Flower sees that the spark is there between you. I think Hemust's desire to provide a stabile lifestyle by toiling in a shop is exactly what you've been seeking Jillian. Talk to me, this day could have been much worse... perhaps it will end much better,"
============================== ooc: Jim, I was looking for a list of gear we looted from this most recent fight.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 5 of 20 Spells Sunday December 20th, 2009 11:18:34 PM
Bosk secures the prisioners as before and helps himself to some of what is left of the food. Thanking Grendle for the meal, Bosk returns to the captives and begins to question them. So what are we going to do with you? Does your group have a system set up to pay ransoms, are they going to break in to try to free you, or will they abandon you to your fate? If the latter, do you have any way to convince us you will mend your ways and not attack us as soon as we let you go?
Finishing with the three the minotaur leaves, turning his attention to the Scholar who he decides to ask a few questions. You seem to know a little bit about everything. Tell me, have you ever heard of a tenticled monster that feeds on brains? There has been one on town lately that has been attacking merchants at night.
After the conversation, if he will allow it, Bosk will read the tome on dungeoneering.
ooc: If we are going into the city, I would recommend selling the merchandise in the shop first, or finding a better way to secure it.
Is everyone ok with chipping in for a pearl for Grendle, we can take it from the gold we "found"?
Also, is attacking our group an offense that we can turn people over to the guards for, or is thay too common in Mud Town for them to care?
Jacob the Lesser and Prisoners -- DM JIM Monday December 21st, 2009 1:17:30 AM
Jillian and Hemust's features soften noticeably, then Jillian begins to blush as she looks around, "I'd rather not talk right now about it, not here." Hemust concurs, it probably would be different if they were in a private room, but everyone was around them and Lilly, who's mouth still contained a scrap of biscuit and wide open as if she forgot to swallow, was gawking at the pair.
It all changed though when Bosk came over and tied up the three prisoners and began questioning them. Their answers were noncommital and definitely not forthcoming as they had been with Grendel.
"They're being tied up again, by the minotaur." "I told you, Burt, they're going to eat them." "No they're not, maybe beat them half to death, but not eat them." I hope.
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 d20+7=17 ; Monday December 21st, 2009 9:10:43 AM
As Bosk sets to work, Grendel clears her throat to get his attention and with a slight shake of her head she indicates that they do not need to be tied up right now. "These people are still severely injured, they need rest. Bindings will make that process more difficult and... longer. There's not much room in here as it is, let's not prolong this process any longer than necessary."
Turning to the prisoners she smile and gives them a telling wink. Softly to Hemust and Jillian she says, "My apologies, didn't know so many were about. We can talk later." then turning her head to Lilly to include her in the conversation she adds, "You all need to rest now. Let me know if you would like a message sent to you compatriots or family so they can come tend you... or at least know that you are alive and I'll see that it gets done."
========================= Forgot to make a knowledge (arcane) roll for consulting Jacob's book for information relating to or identifying our "Brain eater". Roll: 17 (includes +2 for masterwork book)
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 d20=10 ; Monday December 21st, 2009 9:19:36 AM
Xeron picks up some dried meat from his backpack that he washes with some stale water from his waterskin. He looks through the window and still sees nothing. (1d20 = 10)
When Grendel starts preaching again, he rolls his eyes, having no taste for priests of any kind.
When Bosk tied the prisoners again, he shakes his head. "First we try to kill them, then we save them, then feed them then tie them up again. I simply do not get these strangers methods "
He opens the door and watches the street, sitting on the porch, taking in the mudtown scene, wondering if he should go back to his old ways. He grabbed the wedding ring around his neck again. Behind good was hard work but was now ok for him to kill people and loot them in the name of good. He still did not know how this was different of when he killed people and looted their body when he was a bad man but there was a lot of things he did not understand. The behavior of this group was another thing he did not understand but if it made sense to them, why not? As long as he was not involve, he did not care what the other did in their free time.
He takes another piece of the beef jerky, without looking, hoping there is no mold on it. "I should go get myself some rations. May be after my little visit to PLeasure Alley. Hum... how to suggest the idea to Valla? "
Sitting on the steep to get in the house, he looks at the various denizens of Mud Town walking by the house.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d20+7=13 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+4=16 ; Monday December 21st, 2009 3:16:29 PM
Valla is somewhat depressed when Jacob had hardly anything to say about his "Box". The arcane book did spike his intrests a bit though; Do you mind if I look through that book there? A bit of knowledge in the Arcane ways never hurt anyone, especially a wizard as myself!
Valla thumbs through the book a bit, trying to discern anything about a tentacle monster that eats brains, or flesh for that matter, and anything about a Puzzle Box with magic gems. (Knowledge (Arcana) 13+2=15)
After looking through the book, Valla gets himself a plate and leans up aganist the wall next to the door; eyeing Xeron; Whats the young one looking at now? Hopefully not looking for an easy mark.. I'd hate to see him turn back into one of these pitiful excuses for people here in this damned town... He takes a bite of a biscuit, chews and then shoves the rest of it in a one time...
When he's done chewing his biscuit, he continues with his Rogue friend.
Xeron; what do you think? Should we get back out on the street and find some information? Valla says as he steps onto the steps with the young Rogue... I mean, Jacob here says once were inside Hook City, we can stay there for as long as we like; if we have enough gold that is... So; the way I figure it, once we get in, we won't be coming out here anytime soon after... I think we should figure out this Brain Eating Monster Mystery before we head into the City Proper.
As the conversation goes on, Valla looks around the streets, and keeps alert for approaching danger, You can never be to careful or cautious in this place... Knowledge Arcana: 15 Spot: 14 Listen: 16
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 Monday December 21st, 2009 3:17:23 PM
OOC: Using the Gold we just "found" from the Noodle Gang; to buy a peal or two for Grendels Identify spell is just fine with me. Its Group Loot for Group Purposes; thats my logic....
Jacob the Lesser and Prisoners -- DM JIM Monday December 21st, 2009 3:35:34 PM
Jacob has no problem with Grendel perusing his tome, but when Valla asks, he makes it a point that the elf should be careful with it. Neither can find anything about brain-eaters per se', but they do find a small section on brain moles, though it doesn't seem to be what they are looking for.
On the step outside, Valla and Xeron take in the sights--people passing by, buildings and tents, and a lot of mud. They do hear however as a group passes by, that the reward for the brain-eater has risen to 10,000gp.
"The human and the ugly elf are outside, on the porch." "Can you smell that, Burt?" "What?" "Biscuits." "Ah geez, stop thinking with your stomach." "You're right, those two probably came outside because they couldn't bear to watch the others butcher Lilly and the other two." "Like I said before, stop thinking with your stomach." "Eww, that's gross, I'd never eat my own kind." "Uhh huh, sure."
Burwotti didn't move and he continued to observe the group from his vantage point. His brother Cade was uncomfortable, hungry and ready to take action--if only he had some spells left. Actions guys?
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 5 of 20 Spells Monday December 21st, 2009 4:01:55 PM
Shrugging his shoulders Bosk once again removes the prisoner's bonds. They are in your charge Grendle. As long as you feel we can trust them... Finishing with the bonds he whispers I trust Grendel's judgement... Not knowing what else to say he begins heading back to the table.
Grendle treats these prisoners as men of honor, even after they attacked us from a distance and without warning. I hope the flower is guiding her decision rather than poor judgement. On the other hand she seems to be doing a better job of getting informstion out of them. Perhaps she can find a way to assure their cooperation if we let them go.
Bosk returns to the book, looking for any practical information that may comevin useful at a future time. While reading, he is careful to keep one eye on the three patients.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 5 of 20 Spells Monday December 21st, 2009 4:04:55 PM
Ooc: my last post was written while the dm was posting. It is not my response to the DMs post.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 d20+5=16 ; d20=7 ; d20=8 ; Monday December 21st, 2009 4:18:27 PM
Xeron gets as Valla talks to him. "Not a bad idea. Let's see what we can learn in this wretched place I called home. "
Xeron goes with Valla looking for clues or information or overall perception about the group or the fact it stole the place from the dead merchant.
Hey You! -- DM JIM Monday December 21st, 2009 4:40:50 PM
As the pair stop passersby and inquire about the group and what they think about taking over Black Harris' place, nearly everyone to the man says that they don't care, or don't want any trouble. The pair get the sense that they're not being told the truth, that the people who are traveling on the streets to destinations unknown don't feel like stopping and talking to strangers--and why would they, it usually ends up with someone getting mugged, kidnapped or killed.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC15 d20+4=14 ; d20+5=17 ; Monday December 21st, 2009 4:41:03 PM
Maikill finishes his breakfast and goes out onto the porch. He looks about, certain that something should make sense. He saw his dead mother, the brain eater has been busy and they have been attacked by a band of misfit thieves.
spot 14 listen 17
Diplomacy and Intimidate rolls -- DM JIM Monday December 21st, 2009 5:00:50 PM
As was pointed out to me in another game, it's not only what you say, but how you say it. When you guys make diplomacy and intimidate rolls, there's the way you say it that matters. Take for instance Grendel and Bosk, since they're the most recent cases of diplomacy use on the same people. Grendel went into deep detail about being nice to the prisoners, i.e. friendly. She got results. Bosk made his roll, but tied them back up and demanded answers, which was un-friendly. He did not get any good results. The same goes for Intimidate, but in reverse. if you ask please and are friendly and make a high intimidate roll, they're just not going to take you seriously. If you tell them you're going to gut them if they don't talk and make a high roll, you'll get results. The more you put into it, the more you'll most likely get out of it.
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Monday December 21st, 2009 5:23:02 PM
Grendel spends some time digging through the loot gathered after the fight with Zamnoodle's group. "Can't believe Zamnoodle didn't carry his spellbook on him... you'd think a wizard would keep a spellbook with him in this town." Looking to Bosk and the others she asks, "What do you think, add this loot to what we've got in the store or just sell it and get the cash. I'm still not sure what to do with this place. It's rather small for a group our size to use as a headquarters but it's already operating well as a general store. Perhaps we should re-think our plans to sell off all this inventory. What do you think?"
================ Here's what we got from the last fight: small studded armor, whip hide armor, greataxe breastplate, longsword, longbow chain shirt, bastard sword, longbow small studded leather, bandolier of 8 small daggers, small sling 1038gp
Hemust -- DM JIM Monday December 21st, 2009 5:29:15 PM
"Um, Zam wasn't a wizard, he was a Bard. He could tell the funniest jokes, but they sometimes got him in trouble." Hemust shrugged, not sure what else to say.
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Monday December 21st, 2009 6:57:50 PM
Grendel sighs. "Oh well, I never really knew him. I know Valla had a long standing rivalry with the man so I guess I assumed he was also a fellow wizard..." Grendel plops down with a Hmph!, "It's just that I came here to learn the secrets of magic... and all I've done is pick up the pieces after a fight and get myself all dirty. The sooner we get into Hook City, the better." and with that she offers a friendly nod to Jacob the Lesser... her key to the city of wonder.
Looking to the prisoners once more she adds, "I'm a little surprised that none of you wish to have your friends or kin contacted. At least your former comrades in arms deserve to know that you still draw air."
Grendel will also scavenge this shop for another healer's kit.... hers is about used up at this point.
Prisoners -- DM JIM Monday December 21st, 2009 7:39:32 PM
Lilly remained quiet, she wasn't the talkative type. "We don't have any kin, living that is, right Hemust?" Nodding to the affirmative, "What Jillian says is true, we're both orphans, well, sort of. When we got old enough, our parents went their own ways. As for Lilly, I'm not sure, we haven't know each other for more than a week, eh lass?" Lilly nods and still remains quiet. "Her brothers, the two who escaped, are probably looking for her. If you were to let us go before tomorrow morning, well, Cade wouldn't have his spells back. I'm pretty sure you wouldn't want to get sniped while walking downt he streets. Anyways, I dunno, I don't know them too well and Lilly, as you can tell, isn't very talkative."
Prisoners -- DM JIM Monday December 21st, 2009 7:43:23 PM
ooc: so far I get the inkling that some of you would like to keep investigating the brain-eater case, but haven't given me any specific actions as of yet.
Also, if you want to get a pearl from a local pawn shop worth 100gp, that's not a problem, just state someone is doing that and you can proceed with the identify.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+7=20 ; d20+7=25 ; d20+9=24 ; Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 12:45:02 AM
Beriothian finishes his breakfast and joins Maikill on the porch. It's not safe to be outside alone in this city. Between the brain eating monster and the escaped combatants from our earlier battle we have more than enough enemies here.
Beri takes a look around and perks up his ears to make sure nobody is lurking in the shadows.
I wanted to come out here right after you saw the person to look for clues, but it was dark and we weren't particularly ready for a fight at that time. The weather probably covered up any clues from that night's events, but I suppose we won't know for sure until we check.
As Beri talks with Maikill he carefully searches the ground around them for any clues as to who or what may have visited them that first night.
spot=20 listen=25 Search=24
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 9:16:25 AM
Grendel nods to Hemust and Jillian before turning her attention to Lilly. "Both of those halflings are your kin? I noticed one of them was skilled with magic, is he a sorcerer or does he study the art of wizardry?" Ignoring the earlier attempt to secure their freedom for fear of reprisal from Lilly's kin, Grendel pulls out her own spellbook and begins to look over the details of the identify spell she plans on casting tomorrow.
============================ Someone needs to fetch that pearl. I can't cast Identify until tomorrow so we're not going to see a break on the brain-eater case anytime soon from my angle.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 10:17:47 AM
Xeron goes back to the safe house and drops a pearl on Grendel's lap. "The party owes me 100 GP. "
He looks at the prisoners "Why are they still here? Let them go unless you need to have some brain dead followers for your church "
He goes upstairs and plays with his dagger.
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 10:42:19 AM
Grendel thanks Xeron one minute then narrows her eyes at him the next. "They're barely walking. Mud Town would eat them alive if we left them out like this. At the very least let them heal up and then we'll release them with the clothes on their backs and maybe a dagger and some coin in hand." Grendel just growls, her frustration evident. Good doesn't occur by the type of jobs you take, it's all about how you do those jobs. This town seems hopeless in that regard.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC15 d20+4=21 ; d20+5=11 ; Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 12:32:41 PM "Thank for helping me Beriothian. Maybe others not believe I saw mother. I know what saw, horrible sight."
He looks around with Beriothian, hoping to find any sign that might explain the nights sighting.
spot 21 listen 11
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 5 of 20 Spells Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 12:54:41 PM
Bosk reaches into his money belt and counts out the gold necessary to repay Xeron. (Since I have the greatest carrying capacity and I am keeping track of group loot/spending I figure I will act as the mule, if no one objects.)
The Horned Cleric wonders what the group plans to do in Hook City. They don't really plan to linger there do they? We should be able to do our shopping in a day and we have nothing to sell. Besides, if we wait too long someone may catch the monster before us.
Deciding to see where the others stand on these issues, Bosk approachrs the half-orc. Grendle, if you don't mind me asking, what brings you to Mud Town and what are your plans for Hook City? Although I would love to see the city proper, I have little gold to spend. I also worry about the safety of this building if we are gone too long, and I would hate for another group to claim the reward.
While speaking to Grendle Hemust's words continue to bounce around in his head until a idea begins to form. No one would abandon their sister, not even the criminals of Mud Town. Hemust is right, they probably are looking for her as we speak. I'll bet one of them is close by while another is getting renforcements. Relaying his thoughts to Grendle, he suggests they fortify the building and take Lilly outside for a minute to show she is safe and possibly call out for someone to negotiate their release. Even if her brothers are not in the area, word is sure to get around. Besides, everyone deserves to know the faith of their kin.
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 1:13:57 PM
Grendel first responds to Bosk's question about Hook City. "My intentions are to get in there and stay there for as long as possible. My desire is to study magic and there is not much magic in Mud Town. If I can't afford to stay within the city then I guess I'll be back here again attempting to master what I have learned until I can make enough money to get back in there again. You can't tell me you're goals are to live in Mud Town for the rest of your life, is it?"
After Bosk mentions a possible counter assault Grendel just shakes her head in disagreement. "No, I don't think that is valid. The magic user is likely out of spells and the other one I think got injured to some degree. I don't think their group is any bigger than what we already saw... they were out in force attempting to 'shake down' some easy marks." Looking to Lilly she asks, "What do you think? Are your kin within sight of this place or did they run off somewhere? If they are near-by we will invite them to sit and talk under a truce. I think they'll be happy to know you've been kept safe and well since the battle."
Searching and such -- DM JIM d20+2=12 ; Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 3:36:06 PM
Beri and Maikill search out back, but it's as Beri had feared, last night's drizzle has made a mess of the area and nearby the pig pen had been opened and the pigs had covered the area in hoofprints. Funny the elf thought, it isn't raining right now.
Lilly squints her eyes at Grendel and wonders what game they're playing. Naturally suspicious, Lilly remains quiet and isn't tricked into giving any information about her brothers, who were undoubtedly at a tavern somewhere drinking to her demise.
"I know this may sound, well, odd. But maybe we could help you with your situation with the shop." Hemust says, unsure of what his captors may say, but he goes for it. "Jill and I could help you run it while you're working on other things, you know, so no one else takes it over. We do owe you our lives and well, this life on the streets is a perilous one and I think we would welcome a place to stay and work." Jillian looks shocked, while Sanji who had finished cleaning the bloodstains from the floor, pipes up, "And I could keep an eye on them too." Giving the pair a wink, then thinking she just gave them the wrong meaning, she quickly adds, "Not like that! Just like, you know, track the money situation and keep the place clean!"
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 3:46:17 PM
Xeron comes downstairs, thanks the Taur for reimbursing me and look at the group and shake his head. He opens the door and tells Lilly: "how about your invite your brothers to join you? I bet they are soying on us. Life is safer here than in the streets. now this house is ours because we broke into it before the 3 days required. These newcomers have no respect for Mud Town traditions. So if you want to take care of it, good luck. At one point, we will need to order stuff to sell here so we need so merchant skills which no one has, although Grendel can charm anyone with her words. Everyone that has chosen a little of evil like you did has an epiphany moment wher they can change it. This is yours. I had mine. It still hurts. "
Lilly -- DM JIM d20+2=16 ; Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 4:36:47 PM
"Spying on us? Hah! You're as stupid as they come. What would make you think they would be spying on us, you have a crystal ball? You don't look like a wizard to me, and if you were, you're the stupidest wizard I've ever seen." Lilly was scathing in her rebuke of Xeron, but for what purpose?
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 6:44:29 PM
Valla stands watching the goings of Mud Town for some time. While Maikill and Beri search for clues about last night; He doesn't pay much more attention to the prisoners nor Grendel. The scarred elf feels along the lines as Xeron, but isn't as outspoken about it.
If they decide to turn on us; they won't win, I know this... Whats the point in arguing with the priest-mage.
Valla stands watching the runaways from across the street. His mind lingering on the puzzle and its mystery gem; but no break throughs today...
Grendels Identify spell is a good one; I should get with her some time, a broader selection of spells is never a bad thing.. For sure... She seems trustworthy enough... Valla glances Grendels direction while having this thought.
As Xeron drops the pearl into Grendels lap; Valla is shocked, but doesn't show it; Where did he get that?
He turns back to get small group across the street; carful not to make direct eye contact or look obvious. He then walks back inside and closes the door. About this time the prisoners, Grendel and Xeron had begun talking about using the shop as a shop. Valla waits for Xeron to finish, and Lilly's back talk; then with much thought, says his own opinion.
I think we should let these two run it... With Sanji around to keep an eye on them, not to much could go wrong. We could always use another source of income. And its a good way for wizards to get some pretty interesting things! Valla actually seems pretty excited about the shop idea.
He then turns to Bosk; I say staying in the city proper would prove more profitable for us as a group; and its a good way to get your name spread about. To me, thats a good thing... Part of my reason of coming here is to have my name more known throughout the land, and what place better for a mage to be known from, than Hook City? The scarred elf grins and pats Bosk on the shoulder.
Vellinius -- DM JIM Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 7:40:07 PM
Elsewhere...
Vell perused his journal and ticked off a few reminders that he had completed. "How bothersome, I wish...sigh, I just don't know how much longer I can hold out." Vellinius put down his quill and rubbed his temples, trying to ease away the incessant pain that throbbed in his skull. "I'm going to have to change my tactics if my progress continues to be so unsuccessful." Shaking his head and outlining things he needed to do, he sighed again, heavily, as he said to no one in particular, "How bothersome."
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 5 of 20 Spells d20+3=15 ; Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 7:48:38 PM
Puzzled by Lilly's reaction, Bosk does his best to sense her motives.
That makes some sense Valla, however I feel catching the brain eater would have a greater impact on our reputations. Either way, my main concerns are the cost and the shop. If Sanji will watch the shop I am willing to stay in the city as long as it doesn't bankrupt me. ========================= Sense Motive d20+3=15
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 8:25:05 PM
Sudden hatred appears in Xeron face and he goes within millimiters of Lilly's face. He yells at her with hate in his voice and eyes "Because if my sister was captive, I would spy on where she is kept to free her "
spit comes out of his mouth as he yells. He gets up after that and go sit down in a corner, trying to get his anger under control.
Bosk & Xeron -- DM JIM d20+2=16 ; Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 9:09:33 PM
Trying to take stock of the situation, Bosk is unsure as to why Lilly is acting as she is--maybe she's just mad.
"You have to have a mother to have a sister, gutter-trash!" Lilly yells back at Xeron and then spits on his back as he walks away.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 9:32:02 PM
Xeron gets up, his face as white as snow. He goes back next to the halfling, this time even closer, the noses nearly touching. "So you know who I am, don't you? Then you know what risk you are taking right now. You know about my mother, you know about me beeing a gutter trash. You also then know that you are really close to forfeit your life."
A dagger appears and the tip goes on the throat of the halfling.
"Now tell me, how do you know about me? Tell me all you know about me. "
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 9:38:49 PM
Grendel just checkles as Lilly and Xeron have a spat of words. "I'm inclined to keep the small one around just to keep Xeron company... with a mischevious grin she turns to Xeron and coyly remarks, "Xeron, I didn't know you had a sister."
With a laugh she stands to her feet once more and bodes the captives to please sleep now. "You all need your rest. We won't release you to the predators in this town until you are healed up and able to defend yourselves without passing out from the effort." She points upstairs, "You can use one of the rooms up there. Call if you need anything."
Once the prisoners are upstairs Grendel will address the group. "We can decide on the shop later. For now we need to rest and recover our strength otherwise another player in town is likely to come in here and whup us. We're in no state to fight at this point so we might as well rest and recover ourselves. If you need something done outside of this shop, take at least two others with you for safety."
============================= ooc If no one objects, I'd just as soon fast forward here. It seems we've come to agreement on this shop and the eventual release of our prisoners. My character can't do anything at the moment, some of you are in the same position yourselves. If you want to gather info or such, get a group of you together and do it. Otherwise I'd ask Jim to 'skip ahead'.
And who the heck is Vellinius?!?! =)
Lilly -- DM JIM Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 9:54:33 PM
"I don't know who you are," Lilly states cooly and without fear, "but I do know what you are." She leaves the answer unsaid and slowly moves away from Xeron's blade if allowed. Both Hemust and Jillian join Lilly in going upstairs to rest, that is unless Xeron pursues Lilly with the point of his dagger.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 10:17:39 PM
Beriothian hears shouting coming from within the shop and silently slips inside. He sees Xeron pull a dagger on the wounded halfling.
Hmmm, I was under the impression that Xeron was a man of honor.
Beri stands in the shadows of the doorway, his crossbow trained on Xeron.
Xeron, Sanji just spent an hour mopping the blood off the floors from when we first brought the halflings in here. Lets try not to spill any more until morning.
He gives a small wink to the halfling while Xeron's back is still turned to him.
Hemust -- DM JIM Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 10:57:31 PM
"Ah, geez," mumbles Hemust after seeing Beri level the crossbow at Xeron, "not good."
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 5 of 20 Spells Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 11:06:37 PM
The taur adresses Grendel as she sends the wounded upstairs. Do you think it is safe to leave them alone, without a watch? I trust Jillian and Hemust, but I have my doubts about Lilly. I am willing to volunteer to guard them, if we give the girls some of their cloths back. Even if they are not taurs, I don't feel comfortable watching the women dressed like that.
Bosk nods to Beri, indicating that all is well and to relax.
Bosk is willing to watch the prisoners now, and will volunteer for watch at night (dark vision) with his meditation at dawn. Once again Bosk will sleep in his light armor and change when he wakes.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 11:17:10 PM
Beriothian, trusting Bosk's judgement on the scene unfolding with Xeron, puts his crossbow back over his shoulder and heads back out to Maikill. He's not sure that Xeron even bothered to turn around when he addressed him... it may be better that way.
ooc -- DM JIM Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 11:39:45 PM
ooc: Vell was exposition, I've changed it to indicate he is elsewhere.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC15 Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 12:00:20 AM
ooc: fast forward would be fine by me. I hope nobody missed that fact that Jacob the Lesser comes from the Sargrass plains where they deal in making items from the grass that grows there. I think it might also be a good idea to designate somebody with charisma to ask questions and maybe somebody good at intimidation to do that when necessary. Good cop bad cop. I just don't feel that Maikill is the one to go around asking for information. He probably won't get any.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 5 of 20 Spells Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 12:14:11 AM
ooc: I am fine with moving forward, and with the Holiday excitement I forgot about the Sargrass Planes. Images of steelgrass armor once again come to mind.
I was hoping you wouldn't miss that :) DM Jim
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 2:53:54 AM
Xeron let Lilly move her throat away from his dagger. "So you know what I am? Am you still attacked me? Don't you know that the evil that grows in the gutter is dangerous? don't you know that once you get soiled from this gutter, you cannotget rid of it? "
He moves the dagger away and get up . " no you would not know would you? "
He moves back to his corner as spits at Grendel "I don't have a sister. Or anyone for that matter. Gutter trash like are alone. Always alone.
He goes sit down against the wall and plays with his dagger.
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 9:25:42 AM
Grendel ignores Xeron's emotional outbursts, or is just becoming accustomed to them. She nods to Bosk, "Guard them if you like, their clothes are over there. I think you are underestimating their wounds and the degree to which this shop is barred up. In order to get out they would re-open their wounds and lose consciousness. This would likely result in a fall to their deaths. I think they'll be good up there."
============== Grendel's got a charm person spell left for the day. She's having trouble deciding if she wants to hit Lilly, Jacob or Xeron with it. =) I'll probably just hold onto it. Better safe than sorry. If we fast forward, Grendel will take the opportunity to chat it up with Jacob and get to know him better.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 11:48:37 AM
The group decides to give the troubled rogue space who is sitting in croutching position. They do not notice the silent tears which a flowing on his check. His head buried in his knees, the rogue stays silent for some times.
Finally, he gets up and go walk the street of Mud Town, his former hunting ground. He knows that as a native, he will not be the first target ruffains will be looking for.
ooc -- DM JIM Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 3:04:04 PM
how far do you want to skip ahead? next morning, so you can get spells and whatnot back?
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 3:10:13 PM
OOC: the sooner of the next morning or the next significant event. Will Maikill Mom pay another visit?
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 13 of 20 Spells d20=19 ; Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 3:27:12 PM
Overwhelmed by the events of the last few days, Bosk takes a moment to reflect on everything as he hands checks the women's clothing before handing it back to them. Nodding to Hemust he says, As a gentleman I'm sure you understand if I grant the women a few extra curtsies for modesty sake. Nothing personal, just a precaution. Whichever room you are in, please leave the door open.
As the group marches upstairs, Bosk remembers that that Jacob comes from the Sargrass Planes. It has been his goal to get a set of rare steel grass armor from that region ever since he heard tale of the Blood Packs adventures and Grymash (another cleric of Gragul) who was know to have warn such armor. While searching for the armor he discovered that you can only receive it from the Manfri, a hard to find people in the Sargrass Planes. In all his travels, this was the first person from that region that he had ever encountered. Determined no to pass up this opportunity he approaches Jacob the Lesser. diplomacy = 19
Pardon me Jacob, but did you say you area from the Sargrass Planes and that you are from a community that harvests the grasses there? As an Eye of Gargul, I have been searching for someone capable of making a set of steelgrass armor for me, modeled after the steelgrass armor of Grymash, a devote cleric of Gargul and personal hero of mine. If you would have any information or connections in this area, I would be most appreciative.
diplomacy d20=19
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 13 of 20 Spells Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 3:28:44 PM
Morning is fine by me.
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 4/13 Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 4:00:20 PM
Morning is fine.
All Quiet... -- DM JIM Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 5:03:10 PM
Spitting blood clears up reality and dream alike. -Sunao 1926
Upstairs the three prisoners settled in, except Lilly. As soon as the rest were out of eyesight, Lilly tested the bars on the windows, and found them to be secure and too narrow for her to pass through. Chagrined about her captivity, she found a place on the bed, alongside Jillian, leaving Hemust the floor.
Jacob has a good talk with Bosk, he informs the Taur that his father does deal in Steelgrass, and has some ties with the Manfri. However, dealing with the Manfri usually exacts a cost not payable in gold or gems, and you must have the Manfri craft the armor, no one else can do it.
The day passes uneventfully, news of the brain-eater is spreading like wildfire through the narrow streets of Mudtown. Chipper Wanes remains in custody by the local merchant council ( a select few self appointed merchants in Mudtown) for his own safety--cries for a lynching calls for his sequestered state.
Shortly after midnight, something happens, or perhaps it's a dream. (DC20 Listen check Highlight to display spoiler: { You hear two halflings talking upstairs, but by the time you check it out, all is quiet.}). Jacob's door is locked, as he enjoys his privacy, and the rest sleep in the remaining room and downstairs in the main room.
In the morning, the street brings news of another murder, a merchant by the name of Hunsinger who has had his brain removed; Chipper Wanes is released based on this new murder and he even chips into the reward to catch the real murderer, bringing the reward up to 12,000gp.
Rested from the nights sleep, and everyone replenishing their prayers and spells, Grendel casts her Identify spell on the small crystal. The pearl Xeron had gone out and bought is crushed under the casting of the spell and it reveals the true nature of the gem--it is a magical compass. When placed on a thin strip of wood that is floated in a bowl of water, the red end of the gem points to something other than North.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d20+1=9 ; Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 5:14:38 PM
Valla nods to Bosk; Ya; as soon as we go bankrupt, I say we come back to the shop. Hopefully, with Xeron's quick hands, and my own intelect, I think we'll pull through in Hook City. Valla smiles once again.
But his tone changes a bit as more talk of the prisoners comes up. Letting them sleep in a bed, unguarded! Is the Half-orc crazy? Valla looks to Bosk; Keep a good eye on those prisoners; it doesn't matter how much pain your in. If you have enough will and determination, you can escape nearly anything He says, with a grim face, as he finishes he begins beaming at Grendel...
Eventually Valla calms down, he finds a place in a corner and begins writing up another scroll; He remains quiet through Xeron, Grendel and Lilly's conversation about who Xeron is.His mind can't seem to stray from Jacob thoug. The elf wanted to know more about him; so When Bosk and Grendel begin chatting with the scholar Valla makes his way into the conversation.
The Sargrass Plains? I've hardly hear of the place, but it sure does have a better sounding to it the "Mud Town". This armor Bosk is talking about; is it done with Magic? Or is it something the gods have brought upon us? Ever heard of a SteelGrass Staff?
Diplomacy: 9
OOC: Fast Forwarding to morning is fine with me as well; execpt Valla would like to Scribe another two spells onto a scroll.
Color Spray & Ray of Enfeeblement 100gp; 2xp
Sleep his eight hours and in the morning he will prepare the following spells; and make a point to speak with Grendel when he is finished. Spells: Highlight to display spoiler: { lvl 0: Mage hand, Arcane Mark, Acid Splash, Daze lvl 1: Magic Missile, Obscuring Mist, Shocking Grasp}
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 5:19:49 PM
I posted as Jim did... Sorry...
Valla wakes and finds Grendel; he watches the Priest-Mage cast the spell and is very intrigued at the results. I must know what this points to... But not today... We must look into this Grendel. But I think the Brain eater case needs to take priority. Murders every night; this needs to end before everyone starts killing everyone in fear for their own lives...
I Can't post again until the day after Christmas; the library's are closed Xmas eve and day. SO! Merry Christmas everyone, or Happy Hannuka! I'll post again on the 26th...
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 13 of 20 Spells d20=3 ; Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 6:31:19 PM Steel Grass
Bosk watches intently as Grendel works her magic and is amazed as the pearl is crushed under the casting of the spell. No mater how many times I see it, the depth of your magic impresses me. I have to admit that I want to try out the compass immediately, however we should wait until our obligations to Jacob are fulfilled. We might also wish to buy a few potions or prepare more combat oriented spells before we take on that endeavor.
listen d20=3+3=6
Maikill HP 28/28, AC15 d20+5=16 ; Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 6:34:13 PM
Maikill sleeps better, glad not to have another visit by the ghastly version of his mother. Waking up, he goes downstairs and watches at Grendel probes the secret of the crystal. Valla seems to dismiss it for the moment, apparently more interested in finding the brain eater. With a look of confusion, he asks:
"It not point north? What it point to? Too bad it not point brain eater. If point to brain eater we can find it, kill it. I wonder what it point to?"
listen 16
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+7=24 ; Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 7:00:05 PM
Beri kept watch until around two am when he started his nightly trance. During that time he periodically prayed to Wardd for a change in the horrible luck he had been having, hopefully the new day would find his patron deity watching over him.
Listen:d20+7=24 ;
ooc: I'll be out from about the 25th through the first, Bosk is going to do a few posts for me during that time.
Valla and Scrolls -- DM JIM d6=6 ; Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 8:36:54 PM
ooc: no problem on the scrolls
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 13/13 d20+3=22 ; d8+2=8 ; d20+4=7 ; Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 8:50:58 PM
Grendel spends some time that morning getting herself prepared for the day. Putting on her bloodied traveling clothes she casts a cantrip that launders both her clothing and her body. "Ahhh... that's better." Another incantation and she pours healing magic into her body, repairing the remainder of her wounds. Checking on the prisoners she inquires, "How did you sleep?" paying close attention to Lilly. It was definitely two halflings... which means one of her kin must have climbed up to the window. Walking downstairs she sees quite a gathering waiting for her to cast her spell. She obliges and determines a magical use for the gem. "I don't see why Jacob wouldn't want to accompany us on a little sight-seeing walk. I can't imagine you seek to stay cooped up in here for another whole day. Besides, where-ever it leads I think it's connected to the brain eater.
With that Grendel walks into the kitchen to begin breakfast preparations but her excitement gets the better of her and she overcooks the eggs. Palatable but nothing to write home about, which seems to fit both the cook and the meal alike. With a wave of the hand and a few choice prayers she blesses the food with a 'Purify Food and Drink' spell. =========== Remember guys... sleeping heals you 1 hp/level. (2 hp for most of us except Berothian who is unwounded anyway) Listen check: 22 CLW: 8 hp healed Profession(cooking): 7
Prepared Spells for the Day: Cleric: (D)CLW, Command, Inflict Light Wounds, Mending, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Magic
Cast: Prestidigitation, Purify Food and Drink & Identify
Et al... -- DM JIM d20+2=6 ; d20+2=21 ; Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 9:47:01 PM
Lilly is nonplussed when asked how she slept. Hemust was a little sore sleeping on the floor, but Jillian was beaming--in the morning light, she was actually pretty.
"Umm, actually, I'd like to stay in the shop, I didn't sleep too well last night--the excitement of the battle, I just couldn't get it out of my mind." Jacob looked tired and a timely Sanji stepped in, "I can stay and look after the shop and Jacob, just in case we get another visitor," her eyes looked upstairs where the prisoners were. "unless we are setting them free today."
Breakfast was a bust, perhaps because of the lack of resources to draw upon--the larder was getting thin.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+3=15 ; Thursday December 24th, 2009 1:30:38 AM
Beriothian ponders over the best way to find more about the events of last night. Lilly has been tight lipped this far, and is less likely to divulge even innocuous information willingly, so he decided to try Jillian for information first. She has been very loquacious thus far, and seems in a particularly good mood today. He is hoping that since she was laying next to Lilly that night that she would have been awoken when the unknown visitor arrived. He takes his breakfast plate and sits down next to her.
I hope you slept well last knight. I know it can't be easy to sleep with a massive taur like Bosk watching over you, but he's really just a big softy once you get to know him. It sounded like Lilly may have had a hard time sleeping last night until your friend came along.
Diplomacy d20+3=15 ;
Et al... -- DM JIM d20+2=12 ; Thursday December 24th, 2009 3:23:04 AM
Jillian cocks an eyebrow, "Friend? Whatever do you mean?" Then she goes back to eating. All three are still not up to their prime, actually nowhere near it, aches and pains are evident on each of their faces when they came down the stairs and sat for breakfast--the taste of which did nothing to loosen their lips. "Salt pork boiled in coffee. Interesting."
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 13/13 Thursday December 24th, 2009 8:07:38 AM
Grendel just shrugs. The orc pallet and what humans can stomach are often very different things. Looking to the others who have gathered for breakfast she comments, "I'm itching to get out of here and check out this magical compass. It would also be nice to pick-up some details about any other murders that might be attributed to the Brain Eater like this Hunsinger fellow. I'd also like to speak with Chipper Wanes and find out why he was so heavily suspected in all of this."
Looking to the prisoners she states, "Good to see you all this morning. It appears that you all will require several days to heal up. You are welcome to stay during that time and we will tend you. Hemust and Jillian, if you want the job of storekeeper... you've got it. The three of us should speak later regarding this as well as some other topics." and with that she gives them a knowing wink.
Turning specifically to Lilly she says, "You appear to want out, though I warn you that you need time to heal first, I am not going to force you to do the wise thing. Hemust and Jillian are compensating us with their service in our shop. I would ask that you also provide us with compensation. The price is a simple one, once free you will obviously connect with your kin... I'd like to meet them. Invite them to breakfast tomorrow under a flag of truce. They can bring weapons as long as they keep them sheathed. Do we have an accord?" And with that Grendel slides Lilly one of her daggers and 5gp, then she motions to the open door.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Thursday December 24th, 2009 9:09:44 AM
Xeron appears at the breakfast table with his eyes puffy and looking like hell as if he cried all night and could not sleep.
He looks at the group, his hair all messed up and his face needed a close shave. With a broken voice, he starts talking "My mother was a simple minded woman. The mind of a 5 year old in the body of an adult. Her parents abandoned her when they realize that. She ended up working in a church, cleaning the clerics mess. When she was 16, a group of men took advantage of her. They pretended playing her game but it ended in a group ..... " He stops, unable to say the word ....
Regathering whatever little composture he has, he continues Anyway, one of them is my father. When the clerics realized, she was pregnant, they kicked her out. This is why I have no time for priests. MY poor mother in her simple mind thought that Mud Town was the rigth destination, a city made of mud. Who know why? There, the thief guild understood that a beautiful pregant beggar could generate good gold and he did. They took her under their protection and took good care of her. After I was born, it was even better, a beautiful beggar with an infant. However, life on the streets of mud and me getting older made the begging less successful. This is when the beatign and abuse started. If she did not bring enough daily gold, they would d stuff to her. She never understood why they hurt her. When I was 5 or 6, I realize I was good with a knife so I started stealing to get the gold to avoid the abuse. Sitting in the mud all day, she got sick and lost her beauty ad her teeth rotted and she lost her gorgeous hair. So I go better at getting the gold at any price. She still loved me with all her heart, not knowing I was the cause of all her misery. When I was 13, I came back from a good raid when I find her dead. She had been beaten to death. I had enough gold to avoid Pig Alley. And I left the guild then and lived on the streets. I got good with a dagger and the sword and breaking locks and stealing. Killing became a natural. Then someone tried to change me. And I believed them. And I was wrong. I am gutter trash as Lilly called me. I am spoiled goods. I am only good at killing and stealing. This is who I am. This is what I do. I am your hired rogue. I have no mission to find and kill my father or my mother murderers. I have no goal to become rich and powerful. I am just here to kill and steal when needed. So this is what I do. Tell me when you need my hands or my blade and I will be there. I have allegiance to only myself and I choose to work for you. Tell me what you need and I will be there. My hands and blade are reliable. But do not ask me to pray or believe in this good things. It is your domain. I am here to help you with my skills. "
He then nods at the group and go stand by a wall looking at the window.
=============================================================================== OOC: Probably last post until 2010.
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 13/13 Thursday December 24th, 2009 9:40:27 AM
Grendel saunters over to Xeron. "I've endured beatings. I've had my life ruled over by those with power. When I left, I did so under threat of death. With nothing left in me but a desire to live I jumped into an icy river that would likely have been my death. It was a bunch of priests who saved me and showed me purpose. Maybe you'll have a similar experience some day..." Grendel sighs and recounts her thoughts for a moment. "You know, thinking back over it all... you know what the worst part of it was? Hopelessness." With that she pats him on the shoulder before resuming her tasks for the day.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Thursday December 24th, 2009 10:10:18 AM
Xeron nods at Grendel "Good for you they saved you. I never felt hopelessness because I never traded in Hope. Hope is an hallucinogen drug given to people to make them not look at reality. With the rally cry of hope, you will get get people to jump into a fire. But "hope" will not prevent them from getting burn. Hope is not a currency I use. I once had the most selfless powerful love given to me from my mother. I do miss it and know I will not feel it again. But I do not do hope. Actually I felt hopeless when I try to change into a good man. Waste of time. No need for hope. I just do other things with my hands and blades. Just say the word when you need it Lady. "
He stands there at peace with himself as a who he is: a thief and a killer. He does not need a reason or motivation for what he does. Let Grendel and Bosk with their moral compass deal with it. He just does what he does because he is good at it. No motive. No reason. Just skills.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC15 Thursday December 24th, 2009 3:44:26 PM
Maikill listens to the conversation between Xeron and Grendel and decides to join in.
"My Mother always tell me, "life not fair. Get over it." That what she say. Good advice. Mother alway smart."
Past misgivings -- DM JIM Thursday December 24th, 2009 4:59:22 PM
"My father never talks, talked, to me much, not much at all," Jacob adds into the conversation, making the mood even more somber. "It's a terrible thing to look up to someone so strong, so smart, and they won't give you the time of day. Terrible it is." Jacob sighed at the thoughts that came unbidden to his mind, "But my mother is great! Very caring, smart too and very beautiful. She jokes sometimes that father won her in a poker game, sometimes I think she's not joking." Jacob sighed again, this time even bigger. He obviously missed his mother and wanted to be back home.
"My parents were killed," Lilly said abruptly, "when my brothers and I were still children. We've been on our own since." Taking the dagger and 5gp, she looked on them with dead eyes. She had more daggers and about 200 more gold before she was captured, but she had her life, and more important, she wasn't beaten or worse--the memory of "worse" still burned in her brain. "I'll convey your invitation to my brothers--they never turn down a free meal." Lilly turned, then with the faintest of smiles, "Thank you Grendel." She then left the shop to join her brothers waiting across the street behind some crates. Soon they were out of sight.
"She's an alright kid, has had a tough childhood though," Hemust says after Lilly left. Turning to Grendel and the rest, "Thank you for trusting us, you won't regret it, right Jill?" Turning to look at Jillian, "Yes, Hemust." She didn't say anything else, maybe she was insincere, but Grendel understood since she was a woman--Hemust and Jill would be together, not just as members of the same merc group, but like boyfriend and girlfriend living under the same roof, and there were only three rooms in the place.
Look what I found -- DM JIM Friday December 25th, 2009 6:01:48 AM
Seeing that the mood in the place had turned somber, bordering on morose, Sanji spoke up about her new find, "Hey guys, look what I found!" It was a small wooden box, intricately carved on it's exterior and lined with red velvet on the inside. "I found it amongst some of the stuff on the shelf, most likely forgotten because of all the dust covering it. Well, I opened it up and found these inside, along with a note." Showing the group, inside were seven small round golden charms, about 1/2" in diameter, with a small golden ring piercing the top of the charm. On one side of the charm was a rune, possibly denoting luck, and on the other side a bas-relief of a rabbit. The note explained that the charms were made by the halflings of Greendale and would bring the bearer luck once a week when needed. The charm must be worn or held as an earring with the proper fastener, on a necklace or on a charm bracelet. It could even be fastened to a sword or dagger pommel, or on a musical instrument, but simply carrying it around in your pocket would not suffice. The note wishes the bearers many happy tidings and good luck on their travels. In game terms: This magical charm (fate item) allows you to reroll one roll, per in-game week, that you have just made before the game master declares whether the roll results in success or failure. You must take the result of the reroll, even if it's worse than the original roll.
Merry Christmas guys :)
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 13 of 20 Spells Friday December 25th, 2009 11:02:15 AM
Merry Christmas!
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 Friday December 25th, 2009 12:47:17 PM
Merry Christmas!!
Valla gets up, study's and then eats breakfast. Intrigued by the magical compass still, Valla nods when Grendel says something about it being connected to the Brain Eater. He stashes his newest scroll in the scroll case strapped to his backpack, looks through the pack and makes sure everything is in order. He then begins to hear Xeron's cermon.
I've been beatin, sliced, cut, nearly killed. My parents died in an Orc raid He starts beaming at Xeron, standing in the light enough to let everyone see the effects of his scars. Ends looking at Grendel and Maikill, the Half-orcs in the party. Don't worry, No resentment. No hard feelings. I trust you two with my life, and am at ease with that decision.
Valla stares at the ceiling for a while, I think we need to get back on track. Having Jillian and Hemust run the shop with Sanji is a great idea. Leaving Jacob here under their watch isn't a bad idea ethier. We need to find some information about the Brain Eater and investigate the compass a bit more.
When Sanji comes out with the charm, Valla nods to Xeron and Maikill, I think one of those two should use the charm. Luck comes into play for a Rogue more than most people. Maikill would need it more than Bosk.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells d8+1=5 ; Friday December 25th, 2009 12:56:50 PM
ooc: I brlieve there are 7 charms, one for everyone
Posting for Beri and Bosk
Coming down stairs just as Sanji makes her announcement, Bosk goes over to her and Beri and takes his time examining a charm, not quite trusting unidentified magic items. Immediately images of Grymash, another Cleric of Gargul, come to mind as he recalls a story he was told where the curious orc put on an unidentified magic belt and immediately was transformed into a girl. A smile crosses his face a he recalls the story. Although these charms were identified, not knowing the identifier caused him some worry. What if this was a trap?
Before the cleric can voice his concerns, Beri takes the one he was examining and puts it on. "My prayers have been answered. Just last night I was praying that Wardd would change my luck and watch over me and today he blesses us with this find. I am not one for preaching, but I think our fortunes are about to improve thanks to him." Hearing this The Horned Cleric thinks of Xeron. What happened to him? Could this have anything to do with last night? I should talk to him later. Nothing much, he doesn't seem open to the Word today. But perhaps a listening ear or stroking of the ego would help. He needs to realize the true value of his self worth.
Sitting down at the table Bosk greets his companions, amazed at how close they have become in only a few days. Taking a bite of the formerly dried pork, Bosk is amazed at how tender the coffee had made it. Looking up from his meal the cleric sees his opening with Xeron and says, Grendel, I am amazed at what you can do with such little resources. If memory serves me right, it seems that in all the excitement yesterday we forgot to restock the pantry. If you would like, perhaps Beri, Xeron and myself can go shopping today and get some more fresh ingredients. We wouldn't want to run out of food while entertaining our guests.
Bosk and Beri will get a weeks worth of food for 10 people.
============= Cure Light Wounds d8+1=5 Resting =hp+2 HP restored to max hp
Since Xeron cannot post I won't RP the conversation.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Saturday December 26th, 2009 10:34:25 AM
Maikill looks carefully at the small treasure box with the charms inside.
"One me? I like rabbits. Look good my ear."
he take a charm and attaches it to his ear by piercing his ear with a needle and attaching the ring to the new hole. A small drop of blood hangs from the end of his ear but Maikill does not seem to notice.
"It look good?" he asks Grendel
Merry Christmas
The day's activities -- DM JIM Saturday December 26th, 2009 6:28:36 PM
ooc: so does the group want to do this day?
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 13/13 Saturday December 26th, 2009 7:49:27 PM
ooc: I'd like for Grendel to use the magical compass during the day to see where it leads. If we could also get some time to interview the family of the dead merchant and the suspected merchant, that would also be helpful.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Saturday December 26th, 2009 8:08:39 PM
ooc: Maikill would agree and follow along. Hopefully everyone would go together. Tired of splitting the party up. Maybe we could have food delivered to Sanji.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells Sunday December 27th, 2009 12:52:32 AM
Bosk and Beri are up for anything.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells Sunday December 27th, 2009 1:08:54 PM
Bosk and Beri are up for anything.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 Sunday December 27th, 2009 2:36:44 PM
Valla interested in the compass as well, but thinks talking with the suspected merchant and the dead merchants family is the priority for right now.
I say, while Xeron, Beri and Bosk are getting food, why don't Grendel, Maikill and myself gather some info from the dead merchants family? Then we can all meet back up and talk to the suspected merchant together. I think the suspect is going to be more hostile than the surviving family. If at all that is...
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells Sunday December 27th, 2009 3:41:38 PM
ooc: I am fine with that.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Sunday December 27th, 2009 8:33:00 PM
ooc: good, go with it
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 d20+1=20 ; Monday December 28th, 2009 3:06:27 PM
Valla nods to his comrades, Maikill and Grendel, as he leads them into Mud Towns muddy streets. The elf leads his small team to the dead merchants family (Im drawing a blank on the name at the moment...)
Upon arrival Valla bows his head low, and offers a short elven prayer to their recently lost loved one. But, soon enough the questions begin.
Im Valla; a member of a newly, but fastly rising, group in Mud Town. We are trying to find out any information we can that may lead us to the capture or death of this mysterious "Brain Eater" monster that has been killing off merchants here in Mud Town. Somewhat of a way to avenge your loss, it would be very helpful if you could provide us with a bit of information. What kind of buisness did he run? Did his goods come from out of town or were they made here in Hook City? Has he had any obsession or want of a certain puzzle box? What did he do in his free time? Who were the last three people he talked to?
Valla will talk in as much of a caring and sympathized tone as he possibly can; also attempting to spare them the worst of his facial scars...
Diplomacy: d20+1=20
The day's activities -- DM JIM d20+2=14 ; Monday December 28th, 2009 8:02:42 PM
Deciding to split up, Xeron, Beri and Bosk head out to restock the shop's pantry, which was getting dangerously low. Valla, Grendel and Maikill decide to go talk to the family of Gerald Hunsinger, the latest victim of the brain-eater--leaving Sanji, Jacob, Hemust and Jillian to sort out the shop. Hopefully the two prisoner-warriors turned employees wouldn't kill Sanji and Jacob, taking everything the group had worked for and in the process, burn down the shop--but one could only hope.
Xeron, Beri and Bosk find ample groceries as there is a farmer's market nearby that has many a stall of fresh fruit and meats from local famers and ranchers that make the long walk from their fields to the north to sell their wares in Mudtown. --In game terms every character must spend a minimum of 50gp x current level per month for upkeep. However, since you have your own place and are cooking your own food, that price will be cut in half. So buying groceries for the month will cost the group 262.5gp (50x2x5/2=250+(25/2)=262.5gp). You do not have to pay for Sanji, Hemust or Jillian since the business will pay for them as long as it is profitable--More on that later.
Valla, Grendel and Maikill find that Gerald Hunsinger had left behind a large family, a wife and eleven children in all--five girls and six sons. Also, Valla recognizes one of his children as Rain, the girl Bosk has shown an interest in several days ago, and also that she was a twin. Gerald's widow, Mabel was gracious in her talks with Valla, although it was apparent that the scars on his face distracted her from time to time. In response to Valla's question's she answered the following:
What kind of buisness did he run? The family sells books, scrolls, artwork and copying services
Did his goods come from out of town or were they made here in Hook City? The books are from travelers who sell them and from other cities. The scrolls and artwork too, though the Hunsinger family does make copies and some original artwork from time to time.
Has he had any obsession or want of a certain puzzle box? Not that they know of
What did he do in his free time? He read a lot
Who were the last three people he talked to? Kweku the ink maker Yosef the baker Numitor the calligrapher
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 13/13 d20+4=16 ; Tuesday December 29th, 2009 10:50:27 AM
While Grendel walks around with Bosk and Valla she keeps an eye on the magical compass. If it points to a far away destination the compass should point more or less in the same direction. If the compass points to something nearby it will gradually move as they walk.
When with the family Grendel offers her sincere condolences and asks if they have any information that might be useful in this investigation... anything at all. Even the slightest details have turned out to offer good leads on this creature so far and we're close to tracking it down.
========================== Aid another (Diplomacy): 16
No one said they tried to make the compass, i.e. bowl, water, wood strip, etc... DM Jim
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells d20=17 ; d20+3=16 ; Tuesday December 29th, 2009 1:08:27 PM
After shopping the three return hope, hopeing that Grendel will come back to get them or leave word if they have discovered a lead. While they wait, Bosk looks around the shop, trying to determine the value of everything if it was sold off and trying to estimate how much money the shop would be capable of bringing in a week after paying the three workers. Is it more to our advantage to get a large sum of money right away, or to secure a steady stream of income? If we are better outfitted we can take on betterjobs and increase our reputation and our assets, however a wise man never looks only at the short term. Maybe I could sell my share of the bussiness, or buy one of the other members to increase my profits?
If the group learns where to meet Valla and the others, then they will join then and assist to the best of their abillities.
============================ Aid Another (Diplomacy) Bosk = 17 Aid Another (Diplomacy) Beri = 16
ooc: have we been told what our XP award for the last cycle was, other than that we are all at lvl 2? (Beri Excluded)
No -- DM Jim
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 d20+5=10 ; d20+4=5 ; Tuesday December 29th, 2009 1:10:07 PM
Maikill stays a bit back as the questions are asked of the dead merchant's family. He keeps an eye out for trouble, not quite sure how he can help with delicate matters of discourse.
spot 10 listen 5
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 13/13 Tuesday December 29th, 2009 4:11:07 PM
Grendel makes the compass from a piece of the doorframe that we busted, a bowl from the pantry and some water. She'll then begin tracking how the makeshift needle moves as she moves around.
The door was completely mended several times. Mending does not create anything, just puts back together the original borken pieces. DM Jim
The Business -- DM JIM Tuesday December 29th, 2009 5:25:36 PM
These are the generally accepted business rules in the Wold:
The player character sets up the business with an initial invest. That initial investment is used for profit calculations. The player can put more $$$ into the business each time he increases in level. This can be seen as upgrading or possibly diversifying the business. The player's cohorts and followers run it on a day to day basis and all wages are assumed to be taken into account before the profit/loss calculation.
Maximum investment: Character can invest level *1000 gps.
Modifiers: +1 for each 8 hour day the character works in the business (up to a player's maximum Charisma modifier) +1 Owner has at least 5 ranks in associated skill. +1 Owner has at least 10 ranks in associated skill. +1 Owner has at least 15 ranks in associated skill. +Owner's diplomacy skill/3. +Cohort's profession skill. -2 Owner spends less than 8 hours per week helping to grow the business. -1 Previous profit check resulted in a loss. +1 Previous profit check resulted in a gain.
All losses are deducted from the character's initial investment unless otherwise stated by the character. If the initial investment falls below zero, the business is bankrupt and closes. -------------
I'm valuing the shop at 2000gp. If you tried to sell it all immediately, 1000gp.
The formula I see for the shop is this:
((2000gp)*10%)*(Take10 or Ability check +5work days +3ranks +2diplomacy +5Hemust -25)/25
200gp*0=0gp/week if a Take 10 is taken. This pays for Sanji, Hemust and Jillian's upkeep.
If you sell everything, then you will lose Sanji, Hemust and Jillian since they will have nothing to do, not earning a wage and just eating you guys out of house and home.
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 13/13 Tuesday December 29th, 2009 5:44:38 PM
Can you explain how we can improve those numbers? I understand the +5 for Hemust as a hireling bonus, but what about the work days, ranks and diplomacy numbers?
You would have to increase either Sanji's, Hemusts or Jillian's stats or skills. But they are non-adventuring, so they will not imrove. The only other way would be for you guys to work in shifts or whatever in the shop on those days you're not adventuring. DM Jim
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:6/6 Tuesday December 29th, 2009 6:10:31 PM
Valla listens to the family's replys, and figures right away that most of the information is nearly useless...
Scrolls and Art work, Books and copying? Nothing in common with the others... Last three people he associated with are seemingly random... Although the fact that he does buy things from travelers... We may have something here...
Ma'am... This question my come off a bit blunt, but I think I need to ask... Is there anything about Gerald's buisness that may have been illegeal or maybe upsetting some one in power here in mud town?
After she answers the question, Valla is done bringing grief to the family. He motions for everyone to follow, and makes his way back to the "Shop".
He walks in the door, and looks to Bosk, Didnt find out much my friend... I think our next option is to figure out a bit more about this compass and where its pointing to... Its very possible, I believe, that its pointing to the Brain Eater itself, or possibly something to do with the monster...
Valla then finds a seat, and awaits everyones reply...
OOC: About the shop guys. I think we should invest into it. Selling it all now would result in some good items/weapons/armor but we don't have access to the Catacombs nor any other Magic Shop. Our party is decently outfitted with armor and weapons, and I don't see much use in more normal ones. As for scrolls and potions; We should all have a decent amount of money to buy/scribe/brew. Throwing another 300-500gp into the shop per person is probably a grand idea.
Widow Hunsinger -- DM JIM d20+2=19 ; Tuesday December 29th, 2009 6:50:46 PM
"Absolutely not," the widow replies to Valla, obviously a little incensed by his question, but holding back her tears.
Everyone reconvenes back at the shop.
ooc: did you guys spend 262.5gp for the groceries?
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Tuesday December 29th, 2009 7:22:04 PM
Maikill finds himself back at the shop, frustrated that they seem to be making little progress. He looks around and starts to fidget. Shop keeping is not his forte. Killing something bad, that would settle him down a bit.
"Why we not go to body pit, look for brain eater. I see it there. It take cart and horse. Many brains to eat there. We go look, together? I no like sit wait."
Maikill walks back and forth in the small shop, not wanting to sit.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells Tuesday December 29th, 2009 7:31:14 PM
ooc: I will need more time to look over the numbers / formula before I make a shop decision, however I am leaning towards keeping it for RP value. question Is the weekly pay in real time or game time? I assume it is game time. Could we invest in a magical item to enhance the three NPCs abillity checks (This may need to be bought in Hook City)?
Also, I was intending to buy one weeks groceries. 262.5/4= 65.625GP and so far there were no objections to that purchase. Alright, sounds good. DM Jim
Grendel (Jay) AC(unarmored):10/10/10 HP 13/13 Wednesday December 30th, 2009 12:26:21 PM
ooc: Might have sporadic posting until after the new year. My apologies.
The compass -- DM JIM Wednesday December 30th, 2009 3:41:52 PM
Once all are reconvened at the shop, Grendel goes about fashioning a makeshift compass. The red part of the gem that floats on the piece of elm bark points to the west. Traveling with the compass is at half speed, unless you dump out the water and then refill it later.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Wednesday December 30th, 2009 4:42:08 PM
Valla nods, somewhat excitedly when Maikill brings up Pigs Alley... Good Idea, Maikill... Valla looks over at Grendel as she makes the compass into a usable item.
West? Any chance Pigs Alley is to the west? In any case, I think we should go to Pigs Alley, and have a look around. And if thats not where the compass is pointing, then we continue toward where-ever it IS pointing, from there.We also have the "Suspect" to talk to still... He might be of some use, sitting in Jail im sure you'd hear some rumors, or at the least we might figure out what Hook City's Guard knows...
OOC: Valla will chip in for another Weeks worth of food stuffs... So; -65gp 6sp 3cp on my CS...
Pig alley is South.
The weekly upkeep is for all 6 characters, which Bosk has paid for... not sure if from personal funds or group funds. Dm Jim
OOC -- DM JIM Wednesday December 30th, 2009 5:29:48 PM
ooc: by my reckoning, it's only day 5 in the game since the start , right?
Day 1: fight to save running halfling Day 2: fight lumpy goblins; counterattack Ironband; rescue Penn Day 3: investigate murders; takeover shop Day 4: fight noodle gang; hired by Jacob Day 5: investigate; hire Hemust/Jill; release Lilly; make compass;buy food.
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