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.
Sitting Around -- DM JIM Thursday December 31st, 2009 5:33:17 AM
Sitting around their new shop, the group realizes just how much cleaner it is. Sanji was not very good with her rapier, but with a broom and mop, she was gifted. "If we're all going to stay here, we'll need a bigger place, more rooms which we can add on so we're not all sleeping on the main room floor."
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells Thursday December 31st, 2009 1:27:34 PM
ooc: For simplicity sake, Bosk spent group loot on the food. I will be updating my charactersheet after the new years when I have access to a better computer.
How much would it cost to upgrade our place with more rooms?
each 100gp will get you a 10x10 room which is good enough for 1 adult or 2 children(small). --DM Jim
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Thursday December 31st, 2009 5:10:37 PM
OOC: I already changed my sheet; just add another weeks worth of food to our Group Food Stash. Valla will pay out of pocket. Not a big deal... And yes Jim; day 5 seems right to me as well.
After s "stupid fit" inside his head; Valla realizes Pigs Alley is not west...
Well; maybe the Compass isn't pointing towards Pigs Alley; Ethier way, I still think we should take a look there; possibly while were out talking to the Suspect?
Valla finds a good spot; and begins thumbing through his spell book; reading up a bit waiting for the group to come up with some ideas...
ooc -- DM JIM Thursday December 31st, 2009 11:57:02 PM
Happy New Year guys!
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells Friday January 1st, 2010 8:57:36 PM
Bosk looks around the shop, somewhat in disbelief at how much better it looks. Sanji, did you do this? The place looks amazing! As she speaks Bosk nods his head in agreement. Your righ, after we return from Hook City we should look into expanding the shop.
Responding to Maikill and Valla he says, We really shouldn't be chasing the Brain Eater while we have taken on the obligation of protecting the scholar. His safety must come first. We can wait one more day. Besides, we may be able to learn about the creature in Hook City. A town that wealthy and well traveled is sure to have information.
Jacob -- DM JIM Saturday January 2nd, 2010 1:27:16 AM
"It'll be two more nights before I can enter the city and this menace will still be lurking about?" Jacob counts on his fingers to see if he remembered correctly when his time to enter was. "So that means at least two more people will get their brains eaten. I truly hope it isn't one of us!" Jacob visibly shivers at the thought. To all present, it was apparently obvious that Jacob did not like to read suspense novels.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Saturday January 2nd, 2010 11:05:09 AM "Two more die. No like that. Jacob stay here, lock door. He safe. We go find brain eater, go pig alley. I know what it look like. No afraid."
Maikill puts on a brave face though it is easy to see that he is somewhat apprehensive about facing the brain eater. His pacing does continue though, and it seems like he is equally uneasy sitting around a shop as he would be chasing down brain eaters.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells d20=4 ; d20+3=4 ; Saturday January 2nd, 2010 11:13:18 AM
The fear so apparent in Jacob's voice gives the tall minotaur an odd sense of relief. Although he felt a strong obligation to protect Jacob, he had never been one to enjoy standing around waiting for adventure to find him. If it was up to him the group would be out hunting the brain sucking monster. But with jobs as scarce as they were it would have been poor judgement to turn down the task, and now that the job was accepted it would be irresponsible and bordering on dishonorable to put Jacob in danger by hunting down the creature. However Jacob's reaction gave him an idea. If all went well they might be able to break away from the monotony of protecting the scholar for a while. It wouldn't be dishonorable to hunt the creature if our employer wishes us to do so. As long as we are not misleading him and he believes it is his idea...
I know how you feel Jacob. The waiting is the worst part, never knowing when or where the creature will strike. Letting the thing take it's time to plan an attack, waiting for people to let their guard down. If I had my way we would be hunting it rather than hiding from it. Taking the offensive, taking away it's element of surprise. You know, face the creature head on and under our terms. I have always preferred to take care of things quickly rather than the suspense and constant on edge feeling of waiting. However, that will have to wait until after you are safely into Hook City. I just hope our leads don't grow cold in the mean time. Turning to look more directly at Jacob he continues, Oh, don't worry, you have the best body guards in all of Mud Town. If the thing comes back we'll be ready for him. Besides, to my knowledge it has only attacked merchants without protection. It seems to prefer catching it's victims alone, which is why so many merchants are investing in security these days.
Realizing he that it had been a while since he last scanned the area and remembering that guests may be showing up for dinner, Bosk takes a second to observe his surroundings. Unfortunately it is just about this time that Grendel, Valla, and Maikill return from gathering information and the ruckus they make prevents he from observing much else.
====================== Valla: Your character sheet is not updated, my guess is that you need to click on the share tab in the upper right corner and then click on publish as web page, and then click on republish document. Perhaps we can deduct the gold you spent on food from you share of any building upgrades we plan to do (if we decide to do so).
Listend20=4+3=7[b/] [b]Spot d20+4=4
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Saturday January 2nd, 2010 5:16:11 PM
OOC: Happy NewYear Everyone! ======================================================== Xeron goes shopping with Bosk, acting as a body guard for the gigantic Taur, which is by itself a funny sight.
When they go back to the shop, he goes to the wall and sit in a corner. He picks up a twig from the fire place and sharpens it with his dagger, waiting for the group to ask for his services.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Sunday January 3rd, 2010 12:41:19 AM
ooc: I'm back from my vacation. I will post once I have caught up on the days I missed. I have a quick question about the shop, do Sanji and Grendel's diplomacy count toward the +2 diplomacy?
Only people who work in the shop. if Grendel or anyone else wants to work in the shop, then I'd add a portion of their diplomacy and other skills based on how many days of the week they work. DM Jim
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Sunday January 3rd, 2010 8:23:25 AM
Xeron sharpens and sharpens the twig to a point where the stick is ridiculously small. He sees all the pieces of wood on the ground and realizes he made a mess. He goes pick up a broom and showel and gather his trash.
After that, he goes see Sanji "Do you need my help? I am not the domestic kind but I'll give you a hand. You are still an adventurer at heart even if you are better with a broom than a rapier. "
Time passes slowly -- DM JIM Sunday January 3rd, 2010 3:22:17 PM
Jacob listens to Bosk's words intently, but says nothing in return, just nods his head in agreement and when the conversation is over, heads over to a corner and begins to read one of his books to wile away the time.
Sanji politely declines Xeron's help; the size of the place is not large and she already has helpers in Hemust and Jillian--which she has put to work already.
It is slowly approaching 4pm in the evening, darkness will prevail in a few hours...
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Sunday January 3rd, 2010 4:51:10 PM
Maikill's pacing has continued, and now he stands at the door with axe and gear ready.
"We turn into old shop keepers? Why we sit when they need help. Brain eater out there, come for somebody soon. We go, go now and find it. Who come with me? I tired of wait. I go now. Come if want, or stay safe inside. You choose."
Maikill swings open the front door and slams it behind him. He now stands outside, trying to decide how best to go and find the creature that scared him away a few short days ago.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Monday January 4th, 2010 9:47:44 AM
Valla continues to read his spell book for some time, until Maikill and his crazy outburst. I aint stayin here, if Maikill goes, I go... The elf shakes his head as he tucks his spell book into his pack and strolls out the door after Maikill;
Grendel and Xeron, you should come as well, who knows whats about to happen... Bosk and Beri too... He sighs, Shouldn't split up, we need to find this creature, if anything Jacob is more safe if we find it, than if we don't. He nods to Jacob,
This is not abandonment, its us doing our job. Even if it is the hard way...
The scarred elf motions for everyone to follow, and with staff in hand, he joins Maikill in the street.
To pigs alley then?
OOC: Thats fine, however the group decides to spend the gold is ok with me...
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Monday January 4th, 2010 11:07:39 AM
Xeron smiles at Sanji but his heart is bleeding inside. "Useless! I am totally useless unless I steal or kill!"
He goes back waiting until Maikil go crazy. When Valla follows the barbarian, Xeron shakes his head and follows the magician. "Just tell me what you want me to do, elf! "
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 Monday January 4th, 2010 11:59:14 AM
Grendel nods, "Aye... I'm game. Let's see where this compass leads first. If we find a dead end, then we can check out Pigs Alley." Grendel dons her new breastplate armor and heads out... this time with her gear. ----------------- To clarify, I'm not going to split off from the group. Only suggesting we use the compass first.
direction -- DM JIM Monday January 4th, 2010 12:20:40 PM
ooc: you guys splitting up? 3 so far are heading to pig alley with Grendel following the compass which does not head in that direction.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC16 Monday January 4th, 2010 12:45:44 PM
Maikill smiles as others join him outside. Perhaps he won't be a loner until his death after all. In fact, it looks like there will be plenty of company to watch him die, again. At Grendel's suggestion, Maikill adds:
"Good idea, you smart. I follow you."
ooc: let's not split up on this
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Monday January 4th, 2010 1:26:13 PM
Xeron follows Valla and Bosk (if they split will follow Valla).
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells Monday January 4th, 2010 4:14:40 PM What are your thoughts Jacob? As long as we are under your employ, me must know your thoughts on the matter. Would you prefer our group to take an proactive or defensive approach on this matter. Either way our group will protect you and leave you with no less than three guards, and a protected merchant has as of yet never been attacked. If you like we can secure the building, patrol the block, or follow our lead to chase the monster. If the latter, we can hunt the creature down while it is still light out and return at or shortly after night fall. This would be my suggestion, since all of the attacks on merchants have been in the dead of night. It is likely that the beast sleeps in the day. A daylight battle would also give us the most advantage and take away the monsters. It would also allow us to be back here at night when the creature is more likely to attack and gives us a defensive advantage when our other advantages are minimized. I also recommend an offensive beacuse killing the creature would also increase your safety when you choose to leave Hook City and are unprotected.
============================== If the group chooses to leave Jacob Bosk will go with the group, but will insist that Hemust and Jillian get their armor and weapons back, and swear an oath of allegiance and promise to assist Sanji in protecting Jacob. He will also instruct Sanji to place the stores caltrops by the doors and will assist in barricading the windows before they leave.
Jacob -- DM JIM Monday January 4th, 2010 4:42:17 PM
Jacob looked up from his book, "All I require is protection at night, since that is when the brain-eater seems to be out and about. What you do during the day is up to you, I think I'll be safe as long as I remain in the shop."
The Compass -- DM JIM Monday January 4th, 2010 4:48:54 PM
It was slow going, carrying the makeshift compass, but the group eventually made their way through Mudtown and ended up at an apparently abandoned building which the group thought was perhaps a small warehouse. It was dilapitated and although it had several small openings in the wood slats that could be peered through, the lack of sunlight didn't show much inside except a few crates perhaps. It's double front doors were blocked from the inside and it had no windows to speak of. This side of town was far from the central gate and not much foot traffic was happening at this time of the evening--sunset was in about one hour.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 Monday January 4th, 2010 5:27:48 PM
A small wave of the hand and a few whispered words and she renews her protective bond with Maikill.
With a nod to Maikill and the large 'Taur she says, "Break it down. We can always repair it with magic later if we are wrong. No sense losing the benefit of surprise by acting... civilized." Grendel pulls a javelin and sets her shield.
================== Casts 'Shield Other' on Maikill. Readied action: throw javelin at anything resembling a "brain eater" or "Tentaculed monster". 1st level spells readied: Command, Inflict Light Wounds and Enlarge Person.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells d20+3=7 ; d20+4=22 ; d20+3=8 ; Monday January 4th, 2010 5:46:18 PM Wait one second, lets make sure this is not a trap. Bosk takes a few seconds to look around the area and to listen to the door for any noise inside. If everything appears to be safe, Bosk will assist Maikill in breaking down the door. (strength check d20=8).
Before entering the building Bosk will cast Bless on the party.
Readied action: shield of faith if a "brain eater" or "Tentaculed monster" is inside.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 d20+5=11 ; Monday January 4th, 2010 6:17:27 PM
Maikill waits a moment for Bosk to look around, and then times his hitting of the door with Bosk.
Strength check 11
The Warehouse -- DM JIM Monday January 4th, 2010 6:38:43 PM
Listening first, Bosk hears nothing out of the ordinary. Maikill and Bosk then throw themselves at the locked doors and rebound off of them as they fail to bust them down. Whatever may have been unaware of them inside, was surely aware of them now. Actions?
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells d20=13 ; Monday January 4th, 2010 6:44:00 PM
Bosk is willing to try the door with Maikill again. Strength check 16.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+7=14 ; d20+7=9 ; d20+7=20 ; Monday January 4th, 2010 7:59:10 PM
Beri peers through one of the openings in the slats hoping his low light vision will reveal something, or at the very least confirm there aren't 20 well armed (and awake) guards now waiting for their entrance and listens for the sound of feet or the rustle of chain mail inside.
spot:14 listen:7
Well, if anything WAS sleeping it's going to be awake now. It can't hurt to try a more direct approach.
Beri talks in a loud voice toward the building.
Anyone home? Please wake up, we have a few questions we need to ask you and this really isn't the type of town where we want to have to try again once it starts getting dark.
bluff=20
The Warehouse -- DM JIM Monday January 4th, 2010 8:17:00 PM
...crickets...
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 d20+5=9 ; Monday January 4th, 2010 9:52:46 PM
Bouncing off the door Maikill staggers to his feet and tries to once again break down the door with Bosk. His shoulder seems to be taking the brunt of the hit.
Strength check 9
The Warehouse -- DM JIM Monday January 4th, 2010 11:06:37 PM
Once again the pair throw themselves against the doors and once more they are repelled. There is room for three medium sized people to assail the doors, but with Bosk trying, only one other can help. The door remains unaffected.
Beri looks in with his low light vision and can't see much--if only he had darkvision and weren't standing out in the light. Also, there is no response to the call to come out.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Tuesday January 5th, 2010 12:34:02 AM
ooc: updating my character sheet. Was the gp from the last fight put into group loot or split up?
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells Tuesday January 5th, 2010 9:40:18 AM
It has not been decided yet
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 d20+5=20 ; Tuesday January 5th, 2010 10:41:38 AM
Bouncing once again off the massive double doors, Maikill stands and rubs his shoulder.
"That hurt." he says with a obviously pained expression. "Want us try again?" he asks without much enthusiasm. If Grendel replies that he does, he musters up his courage and tries to envision himself actually going through the door. Nothing worse than planning on bouncing off and then not giving it the effort necessary.
Strength check 20
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 Tuesday January 5th, 2010 10:43:25 AM
Suddenly Maikill scratches his head and turning to the others asks "How door block from inside? Either another entrance or somebody inside. Do I think right?"
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 d20+4=8 ; d20+5=13 ; Tuesday January 5th, 2010 10:46:31 AM
Valla follows Grendel and her make shift compass; I think Pigs Alley would have been the better choice. Were not for sure this compass has anything to do with the Brain Eater; but were nearly positive thats what Maikill saw at the graveyard... I think were wasting time...
The elf looks at Bosk and Maikill; Well, break it down already. What are you guys waiting for?
Valla stands to the back of the group, watching up and down the muddy road, making sure no one is trying to sneak up on them. [(Listen: 8; Spot: 13)
To Xeron; he whispers; Tonight Im going out; to a bar; all these puzzles are driving me mad. I need a drink...
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Tuesday January 5th, 2010 11:04:26 AM
Xeron leans against a wall watching his co-workers do their thing rather inefficiently.
After a while, he says to Grendel, "I do not claim to have leadership abilities, pretty lady, but with two crafty sneaks at your disposition, why did you use force? Why does this group hits first, thinks later? Anyway, when you are tired of hurting your shoulders, may be I can take a look around that building. "
He stays there, leaning against the wall when Valla think "Words of wisdom, my friend. I wish you would lead rather than our impulsive beauty. [/b]"
As Valla whispers his plan, Xeron smiles "I know a bar or two and also a few friendly beauties ready to party with us for a few coins .... "
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells d20=10 ; Tuesday January 5th, 2010 11:10:19 AM
If no one else will help Maikill, Bosk will try one last time. strength check d20+3=13
The Warehouse -- DM JIM Tuesday January 5th, 2010 12:14:04 PM
Once more the pair slams into the doors and it audibly creaks this time, but still remains barred.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 Tuesday January 5th, 2010 5:49:44 PM
Grendel picks himself up one more time and rubs his bruised shoulder. It seems the doors a more than a match for the two of them. He watches and listens as Xeron speaks to Grendel.
"Grendel, what want me do. Try again?"
the small thief seems to have little regard for his method but does nothing. Turning to Xeron he says:
"Why not you do something. Use skill to help open door. No sit and do nothing but play with dagger."
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+9=13 ; d20+9=12 ; Tuesday January 5th, 2010 7:53:11 PM
Beriothian looks at the door and carefully examines the lock. After a moment pulls out his thieves tools and starts to work, but like the other locks in this town he has a hard time. He looks toward Maikill dejectedly.
Ok, I need a lot more practice at that. At this rate it would be easier to break through the wood slats we we've been looking through than to keep smashing the heavily fortified door. I wonder what's up on the roof...
He gives a quick looks around for a way up to the roof, as well as for any other possible way in. If the roof is low enough he will ask Bosk to help him up.
Open Lock=13 Search=12
The Warehouse -- DM JIM Tuesday January 5th, 2010 8:02:30 PM
Beri fails at opening the door, but see's the locking mechanism is hidden in one of the slight warps in the wooden slats. Considering all of this, the warehouse isn't what it seems to be--the lock is far too complicated and well made to belong to such a building. Also, it's looks like a magnet and special keys are to be used to open the main doors. The roof is thirty feet up and there are no handholds to help anyone make their way up--it would be a difficult climb.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells Tuesday January 5th, 2010 11:21:02 PM
Does it look like there may be a way in if we can get on the roof?
You cannot see the top of the roof from your present location. DM Jim
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 d20+8=28 ; d20+8=16 ; Wednesday January 6th, 2010 10:07:53 AM
Xeron just smiles at Maikill comments, continuing to lean against the wall and playing with his dagger.
When Bero fails in his attemp, the rogue finally gets moving.
He approaches the door and pulls out his tools. After playing around, he figures out the mechanism. (Open lock = 1d20 + 8 = 28 Natural 20).
After that he searches around to see if there is a way to open that door. (Search : 1d20 + 8 = 16)
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Wednesday January 6th, 2010 11:59:45 AM
Valla only smiles and nods at Xeron's leadership comments; the smile turns to a grin when he talks about knowing a bar or two.
The door isn't going to get broken down. If Bosk and Maikill, the groups two strongest, cannot break it open, no one else even has a chance. Especially me.
When Xeron approachs the door; Valla notices Beri looking up, Don't try and climb this building Beri... Thats not a smart idea....
While watching our semi-expert rogue play and work with the lock mechanism, Valla silently wonders to himself.
Pigs alley, or abandon warehouse? If I was a brain eater, I'd be at Pigs Alley... There are no brains here to eat, besides, what kind of tentaculed creature could construct a lock this good? Or want one?
Realizing that these thoughts should be broadcast to the group, Valla finds his voice, in a low monotone voice the elf speaks. If I was a creature who liked to eat brains; living or dead; I wouldn't lock myself into a warehouse, and make it hard for food to get inside. Futhermore; how would a tentaculed creature make a lock this complicated? Surly it didn't find the nearst lock smith and buy it. Yes; we should find out whats inside this building; but I think asking around town about the place, or watching the door for a night or two would be a better approach. I don't believe we will find the Brain Eater here.
He leans up aganist the corner of the building; facing the street; tapping his staff on the ground; awaiting the groups opinions...
The Warehouse -- DM JIM Wednesday January 6th, 2010 12:28:47 PM
Xeron tries the best that he can and comes to realize that the lock is out of his league--it is an amazing lock to be sure. Searching about, he finds nothing to indicate how someone would get the door open, other than having the correct set of keys and a magnet.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Wednesday January 6th, 2010 12:52:27 PM
OOC: Natural 20 fails!!!!! WOW! =============================================================================== Xeron goes back to the wall and pulls his dagger back "Stuff to tough for me! Ain't smart enough to open it! How about we listen to the elvish voice of reason and go take a look at Pig Alley? Are you game, Maikill, now that Grendel can protect you? "
He smiles at the elf, thinking of the good time they can have with the reward money
On skill checks, nat 20's are not automatic successes. DM Jim
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells d20=15 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+4=19 ; Wednesday January 6th, 2010 1:21:46 PM
Sitting back while the rogues attempt to unlock the door, the tall minotaur takes a moment to search the area looking for weak points in the perimeter. He pays particular attention to the walls, looking for an area that may be weaker than the door especially by the slats and makes sure to listen and look inside, taking advantage of his dark vision. He also backs up a ways and tries to determine if there may be a way inside from the roof.
Watching Xeron work with amazing skill, and still to come up unable to open the lock disapoints the blond cleric. I believe this is the right location. Think about it for a minute. The creature has the abillity to move around unseen or to blend in. It is targeting merchants, so it must have the abillity to think and from what Maikill has seen I believe that to may have magical abillities. Furthermore, a location away from the city where it is well protected would make sense and this magnetic lock is no more unreasonable to expect than a magical compass in a puzzle box.
Mentioning the puzzle box brings an idea to the clerics mind. Could the compass be a key? After all, compasses are magnetic so it may open a magnetic lock.
If durring Bosks examination of the building he finds a weak spot in the wall or access on the roof he will mention it to the group saying. It also looks like we may be able to get in to the building from the roof. If no one else has any ideas, Maikill and myself could lift one of the lighter members in our party (under 300 lbs.) onto the roof using an expandable rod I have (39.5 foot). I was planning on saving it in case I ever needed to barricade a door, because the magic only lets it expand once, however this may be the best opportunity to try it.
=================================
Search d20=15 Listen d20+3=14 Spot d20+4=19
The Warehouse -- DM JIM Wednesday January 6th, 2010 3:13:10 PM
In Bosk's searches for any unseen means of ingress, he uses his darkvision (cupping his hands about his eyes) and peers through one of the slats in the warehouses wall. What he finds is intriguing--there happens to be another building, one made of stones, inside the building itself. The outside of the building is just a facade.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Wednesday January 6th, 2010 7:12:13 PM I don't think we should try going over with a roof that high. Even if we find a way down we don't know we can open that door, and that could leave the person that went over stranded. We may want to head to pig alley, but we may want to consider how much day light will be left by the time we get there. We may just want to look here for any last clues while it is still light, possibly find a few locals to question.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 Wednesday January 6th, 2010 11:11:48 PM
Maikill sneers as Xeron has no better luck than he did. Well, at least the thief doesn't have a hurt shoulder, but Maikill won't give his the satisfaction of showing he is in pain.
"I no need Grendel or anyone protect me." he spits out at Xeron.
"I fight anything, no afraid. I even fight you someday maybe. No care who, if they bad I fight them."
then he visibly calms and adds "I no fight because taunt, you taunt me like others. That okay. Someday you learn be kind."
He looks to Grendel and Bosk and asks again "What we do now?"
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Thursday January 7th, 2010 10:22:57 AM
Xeron smiles at the gigantic orc "No need to fight me. I know you are stronger and better than me. MY death wish is not that strong. But I will never be kind. I cannot. I grew up in this mud. I am rotten to the core. Got to accept that. "
He listens to the various group members exposing their ideas and non chalanty, while leaning against the wall and playing with his dagger, he says "I am not the brain nor the muscle of this group. I am the nothing of this group. However, Valla has been making sense since the beginning. WHERE, I repeat WHERE is the ONLY place we know for sure the brain eater was seen? PIG ALLEY! And we have a lost cart and horse to show for it. So let's go for it. This thing is probably quite smart and will not attack all of us. But that does not mean we cannot attack it. "
He stops talking and refocus his attention to his dagger.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Thursday January 7th, 2010 2:41:40 PM
Valla nods to Bosk; I agree with most everything you said Bosk; Execpt one thing. I don't believe this creature is capable of constructing a lock this complicated. Xeron is an able rogue; one with much skill and he cannot pick the lock; even with his best tools. No; I don't think this building has much to do with the Brain Eater. After all; if my memory serves me right, the puzzle box was only in possession of two of the victims. Not a very good connection; since five have died now.
Valla spreads his arms to the building as he backs away; This place here is of importance, Im sure. He begins to shake his head as he puts his arms back to his side; lightly stampings his staff on the ground once again; But I don't think it relates to the Brain Eater. Although I wish to investigate Pigs Alley; because I believe its the most obvious place for the Brain Eater to be. It wouldn't have had to kill for some time to eat the brains of all the bodies lying there in death. Which would also mean its been here in Hook City for some time. Unless it must have Live food to thrive... Ethier way; Pigs Alley is secluded enough, only being visited when Bodies are being dumped; with its magical abilities it could hide easily there; look like nothing more than a pile of rotten flesh. I think thats where our brain eater is. But, alas, Beri is right. Its nearly night time; I think we need to find a few locals to question about this building and head back to the shop, We must protect Jacob tonight and continue our search in the morning once again.
Valla crosses his arms when he's done speaking; no grin, smirk or frown on his face. Only the monotone look of a passionless elf.
And Xeron; your more than the Nothing of this group; your the stealth and resourcefullness of this group. Sure Bosk and Maikill may have big muscles; Grendel and I have our spells and divine favors; but you, and Beri; rely on no one else. The ability to hide, hit, hide and hit over and over again. Killing your enemies before they even know you exist! Being able to sneak around unnoticed and get things done, thats a blessing son.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 Thursday January 7th, 2010 4:30:38 PM
OOC: sorry I've been away... had my baby boy on Tuesday. Just getting things back to normal today.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 Thursday January 7th, 2010 4:37:32 PM
OOC: Congrats Jay!! Knew you had a good excuse, none better. Good luck to you and your family.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 Thursday January 7th, 2010 6:02:56 PM
Grendel nods. "I'm not as willing to write off this building as Valla is, but there seems to be nothing we can do regarding this building at the moment. It's enough that we know of it and can track down some leads on it's purpose later."
Looking up to the sky she adds, "Maikill saw the creature at night, Beri was attacked at night, all of the victims went down at night. Now that the sun is going down, this is the PERFECT time to check Pig Alley."
=============================== ooc: Good to be back. =)
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells Thursday January 7th, 2010 6:38:29 PM
Before leaving Bosk will do to things. Check to see if the gem will fit any where or act as a key.
Please make a Dex check... don't roll a 1 :) DM Jim
OOC -- DM JIM Thursday January 7th, 2010 7:53:51 PM
Congrats Jay!!! But I think your wife had the baby and now you have a son :) Yeah, your right... it was my wife that was getting punched and screamed at the whole time... =) She actually tackled me at one point. -ADM Jay
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Thursday January 7th, 2010 9:08:52 PM
ooc: Congrats on the baby
Why are we assuming that the brain eater isn't smart enough to have this lock system? It is obviously using strategy, and it's victims are anything but random. It may be that the creature is working under someone, but I wouldn't be surprised if they are connected.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20=12 ; Friday January 8th, 2010 12:16:28 AM
Beri sees Bosk messing with the lock and offers him some advice
assist=12
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells d20=1 ; d20=13 ; Friday January 8th, 2010 12:10:37 PM
OOC: Congrats Jay!!!
Reading through my last post I realized that I didn't make it clear that I was planning on checking visually to see if the stone fit anywhere and was not actually intending to use the stone. I only mention this beacuse I didn't mean to steal it from Valla and don't want any hard feelings.
Dex d20=1+1=2
Dex d20=1+1=14 Charm Used
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Friday January 8th, 2010 2:54:08 PM
Xeron smiles at Valla as he speaks. He slowly moves away from the supporting wall and put his hand on Valla's shoulder. 'Thank you for the kind words Old Elf! I wish I could believe them. but if felt good hearing them! "
He turns towards Grendel "I don't want to rain on your parade Flower Girl but your good friend Maikill has his wits scared in the middle of the DAY! Not at night!"
Finally as Bosk starts playing around with the compass and the lock, the rogue moves away "Watch out Big Guy! You have no idea what we are dealing with here "
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 Friday January 8th, 2010 4:39:29 PM
Grendel begins to complain, "heeeyyy..." as Bosk takes the gem from her compass, then abruptly steps back as he makes for the locking mechanism of the door.
"It's not like this building is going anywhere, I say we hunt around the city for the Brain eater before heading back to guard Jacob... we can hit this place again in the morning."
==================== Going to start DMing a game in the Wold on the 15th, let me know if my activity here becomes erratic guys.
The Warehouse -- DM JIM Friday January 8th, 2010 6:44:31 PM
Try as he might, Bosk is no locksmith and has no luck with the gemstone or the warehouses lock--luckily he doesn't drop the gemstone between the wooden slats when examing the lock closely.
Stay or go? -- DM JIM Friday January 8th, 2010 9:55:23 PM
ooc: head to Pig Alley, or somewhere else? If Pig Alley, it'll be dark by the time you get there.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Friday January 8th, 2010 10:30:15 PM I would suggest we head back now. Our job is to protect Jacob the Lesser, and I think it would be better if we could keep watch over him once it gets dark.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Saturday January 9th, 2010 8:26:17 AM
Xeron shakes his head. "I go with protecting the gold provider but here are a couple thoughts which you should feel free to ignore. All the murders have happened in the STREETS. As long as Jacob stays inside, he is safe. If we spend the night with Jacob, he will be safe but likely another merchant will be dead. Which means another family will be without a father and husband. I think that we should patrol the streets, may be around the areas where the dead have been found to see if we can find that thing. I know that this thing can make the strongest of us feel unatural fear but we should still try to take it down TONIGHT. I am not sure I want to go on with this job knowing I could have prevented a death. Of course, these are just my thoughts and are usually worth less than 2 copper pieces .... "
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Saturday January 9th, 2010 4:48:26 PM
OOC: Valla hasn't had the Gem since Grendel used it to make the compass; which, by the way, was never RPed out; technically Grendel would of had to "Steal" it from Valla; I believe it was during the time my posts were... ahhh... Sporadic? But alls well, no harm done, he would have consented anyways. Congrats on the baby Jay; i've got 3 myself. 2 daughters and a son... Lovly wife as well...
Valla peers at Bosk; trying to figure out what the Taur is doing, as he checks out the lock, with the gem; Don't drop it...
He looks to Grendel; and jumps into her and Xeron's conversation; Yes; Maikill did get scared during the day; I don't believe the brain eater would stay holed up inside anywhere. Doesn't make sense; he's a flesh eater; possibly a tentaculed monster. How could something without thumbs construct this lock, much less without hands at all! It would make sense if its working for someone; and they stay in this place. But I think if the monster is on its own; we'd have a better chance in Pigs Alley; during the daytime though. IF you all wish to hunt for it at night time; I'd suggest patroling merchants shops and homes alike. Also; so far all the murders HAVE been, seemingly, Random.
Valla turns to Beri; and glares; showing his secretive reluctance to trust the rogue. IF YOU know something we don't that connects these men, please tell us Beri... What do you have in connection with any of the dead merchants?
The Warehouse -- DM JIM Saturday January 9th, 2010 5:32:20 PM
Several in the group notice that they have come under scrutiny by some passerbys (they are down the street) while they converse outside the warehouse--maybe they're talking about why Grendel is holding a bowl of water.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 Sunday January 10th, 2010 12:34:23 PM
Grendel will reconstruct the compass with her bowl of water and see if it still points inside the building or if it has moved. "Alright, let's go back to our place and start the patrol from there, that way we're close to Jacob and still able to possibly bump into this nasty monster."
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Sunday January 10th, 2010 2:58:37 PM
Valla merely nods his head in agreement with Grendel; Thats a good Idea; miss flower.
The Warehouse -- DM JIM Sunday January 10th, 2010 3:53:36 PM
Reconstructing the compass, Grendel does find that it still points to the warehouse--to it's southeast corner.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Sunday January 10th, 2010 4:43:07 PM
ooc: was it pointing to the same corner before?
Yes -- DM Jim
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 Sunday January 10th, 2010 8:58:20 PM "Alright, this compass seems locked on a single point that isn't currently moving. Let's get back to our store and check on Jacob before moving on to patrol the neighborhood. If this thing is out for merchants we might as well bait this trap." With a touch of her hand to her hat of disguise she imagines Jacob and whispers "Shizzle-bop" transforming into his likeness. Clearing her throat she says, "Let's go."
The Shop -- DM JIM d20+2=10 ; Monday January 11th, 2010 12:07:04 AM
The group makes it back to the locked shop as night falls. Sanji lets in the group and has dinner waiting--it doesn't smell that good, but it looks passable. Hemust, Jillian and Jacob are sitting at a cleared table, playing cards. Each say their greetings then return to the game, "So Jacob, you say a 2 is worth 4. but only on Monday in a month that has 30 days?" Hemust asks of the aristocrats son. "Aye, young squire, but it's worth 0 on a second Tuesday, and today is such a day, is it not?" Jillian looked up, the corners of her eyes squinting trying to figure out if it was truly Tuesday or not, let alone if it was the second Tuesday of the month--in the end she just shrugged her shoulders and tried to figure out if she was winning, losing, or breaking even.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Monday January 11th, 2010 9:48:38 AM
Xeron eats the bad food in silence. When he is done, he looks at the group "Who is up to patrolling the streets? Although, we should made a crude map of Mudtown and see where the various murder took place, to see if there is a pattern. "
================= OOC: DM, what skill roll is needed?
None, you just tell me whee you're going and for how long. DM JIM
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 Monday January 11th, 2010 9:56:55 AM
Maikill eats his food in silence. Once again he is back in the stifling shop, crammed in with a group of people he hardly knows. When he is finished with his food, he remembers the advice his mother gave him.
"Thank you for food Sanji. It is good, make my stomach full."
When Xeron asks about patrolling streets, Maikill perks up.
"I ready for anything. We kill monster, everybody happy. Mudtown be good place maybe."
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 Monday January 11th, 2010 10:01:54 AM
Grendel also eats the food. It's palatable and goodness knows it's better than some of the meals she forced herself to swallow back at the orc tribe. She offers a faint smile to Jacob, Hemust, Jillian and Sanji... unsure of which one attempted to prepare this meal and not wanting to offend.
"I assume that our little friends did not take us up on our offer to sit down and chat over dinner. It's a shame too, we might have benefited from their skills if we worked together on this Brain Eater thing."
Should there be nothing eventful happen in the next few minutes Grendel will make for the door and encourage the group to go patrolling.
============================ ooc: comment was made regarding the halflings from Hemust and Jillian's old group. Them meeting with us was a condition of Lilly's release... not that I suspected them to be the honorable types.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells Monday January 11th, 2010 12:26:06 PM
Bosk is glad for the food and chance to get some rest despite there being an off smell and taste to the meal. Watching the card game as he eats he quickly comes to the conclusion that it would be best not to join in. That game is to complicated for me and definitely gives Jacob the advantage. I would never be able to remember all the rules, let alone be able to tell if they were making them up or not. I think I will hold on to my money for now.
My suggestion is that we take turns sleeping. We can have those with night vision patrolling outside while those without can stay inside. I don't thin that the patrol group should go too far. We want the groups to be able to rejoin quickly if trouble should arise, and the creature will have the advantage outside at night. l would also feel better about splitting up if Grendel could come up with a way to use her magic to communicate between the groups in case one of us spot the creature and needs backup.
Bosk offers to patrol with the group, but will stand guard at the shop if necessary as long as he gets enough rest. At sunrise Bosk will use his remaining spells Highlight to display spoiler: { (Shield of Faith, Mend {if anything needs it}, Resistance, Guidance, and light if anyone wishes it.) } and pray to Gargul for his daily blessing. As always, Bosk will sleep in his light amour and put on his heavier armor when he is awake.
======================== Don't forget that we still need sleep. I suggest three groups. 1 resting, 1 patrolling , 1 guarding the shop.
The Shop -- DM JIM Monday January 11th, 2010 1:37:59 PM
In reply to Grendel's question, Sanji answers, "We just released Lilly today, wasn't the invitation for tomorrow, or am I really confused on the dates today?" Then looking to Bosk, "Splitting up is a really bad idea, by the time help arrives, you could be dead, then the help that arrived to help you would probably be killed. Not a good idea."
------------- ooc: so far I have Xeron, Maikill and maybe Bosk that wants to patrol. Give me a definite idea of who;s doing what and I can process a turn, even if it's you guys just sleeping in and letting another murder take place :)
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Monday January 11th, 2010 2:24:58 PM
Valla eats in silence, not paying attention to how bad or good the meal is; the Elf's mind is currently racing with different ideas and scenarios... Splitting up is a bad idea. If we are to patrol, we should all go; or at least most of us. But I need the rest; my spells are very important here...
I suggest we patrol for only a few hours; making a short circuit around the area near the shop. I also agree with Sanji; Splitting up is a bad idea. Maybe leaving one or two of us at the shop and every one else patroling; but even then we're taking a big chance. If we find this monster tonight I believe all of us will be needed to kill the beast. Valla sits on the ground, near the door
We need furniture...
Ethier way, Im up for patroling a bit tonight if at least four of us are patroling in the same group; then getting some rest; even if it means I must sleep in a bit later tommorow.
Valla looks to Xeron; a frown appears on his face; while he shakes his head... He walks over to the Rogue; Make the map for us Xeron; you know these streets better than every one else here, thats for sure[]b Then he adds, in a whisper; [b] Maybe tommorow night friend; tonight we'll be a bit busy I believe.
-------------------------------- OOC: Valla will go on the patrol ONLY if the group doesn't split its numbers too thin; any less than 4 in the patrol group (including Valla) and he will not join them. After which he will sleep and rest for his 8 total hours; and then prepare the following spells for tmw.
Spells: Highlight to display spoiler: { 0 lvl: Daze x2 Ray of Frost Message Open/Close
1 lvl: Shocking Grasp Magic Missile x2}
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 Monday January 11th, 2010 2:48:27 PM
Grendel nods as Valla speaks, "Aye, we need our sleep to replenish our power. I've got some magic left in me this day... let's patrol for a bit before retiring for the night. I'm in."
======================= Grendel will patrol with the group for a while, maybe until midnight. That way she can sleep and replenish her magic.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 Monday January 11th, 2010 2:51:26 PM
Maikill goes and stands next to Grendel.
"I ready go now."
Patrolling and the next morning -- DM JIM d6=3 ; Monday January 11th, 2010 3:01:09 PM
Deciding to go out on patrol and perhaps get lucky in finding the brain-eater, the group assembles and heads out. Sanji locks the doors behind them and wishes them good luck. Hours pass and the streets are deserted except for a few travelers here and there--all of whom run away from anyone else approaching them, including the group.
Around midnight, after no success, the group heads back and finds the shop as they left it. Once inside and secure, they settle down for the night and rest--the screams of an innocent murdered unheard by the group.
In the morning everyone is well rested and proceed on their morning routines. Shortly thereafter a faint tapping comes on their front door. Sanji see's it's Lilly with her two brothers--they all look hungry. "I hope you don't mind we came for breakfast?" Lilly says, somewhat pensive in her greeting and her eyes darting back and forth behind her. "Mind if we come in? There's been another murder last night and well, I'd rather be off the streets if you know what I mean--some poor sod by the name of Kweku, an ink maker by trade, got his brains taken out last night right inside his home."
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Monday January 11th, 2010 4:35:04 PM
The group patrols the streets and the few straglers reaction of fear remind Xeron of what he is. His face is inert but he is smiling inside.
The group stops at 12. Xeron would have continued longer but the overly cautious team leaders decided otherwise. His suicidal wish being at a low point, he went back to the hacked shop, as any good hired gun would do. He went to sleep wondering who the next victim will be and how would the people with a conscience could leave with themselve knowing they had another murder on their hand. He did not care as he did not have a conscience.
He woke up early and after a quick watch started to play with his dagger, waiting for the orders for the day to come in. When the hafling came in with the news of the murder, he smiles and said to himself "good thing we have our rest. Now we are all ready to be looking during the day for a night creature. "
When Valla finally shows up from his beauty meditation, he whispers to the elf "that thing is definitively quite smart. It goes after people alone, in the streets or in their house. Now if I was our brainy leader, I would go to the place to see if there are indications how the things got inside. And I would spend gold hiring a tracker, a skill this group lack. And I believe we should set a trap tonight and I am ready to volunteer if my share of gold is increase. I will pretend to be a drunken merchant (using some clothings from the dead guy we stole the house from while the rest of the group with balls will be watching for me. If I did give all my gold and equipment to Lola the Red in pleasure Alley. "
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 d20+4=21 ; Monday January 11th, 2010 9:36:23 PM
Grendel wakes, prepares her spells, prays and meditates on Flower... then heads to the kitchen to whip up a large breakfast. "It's about time I had access to a decent pantry..." Omlettes to order and a large tray of apple turn-overs with a heavy portion of hashbrowns country style with a kick of peppers.
With a tap on the door, Grendel opens it to find Lilly and the other 2 halflings. "Sure, come on in... might want to repeat that news for the rest of the group, I'm not sure I caught all of that. Kweku huh? What of your kin, I don't suppose you're going to introduce them?" She steps aside so they have room to enter and offers them a smile, "I'm Grendel, breakfast will be up shortly."
================== Profession(cooking): 21 I'll do my spells later (Promise it'll be before the next fight... rough evening.)
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+3=7 ; Monday January 11th, 2010 10:00:27 PM
After his morning trance Beri attempts to put the puzzle box that hid the compass back together figuring that it would make a good decoy should someone want to steal the item back. He can't help but think it would be easier to accomplish if he had seen how it was taken apart to begin with. Upon the arival of their diminutive guests he puts the puzzle down on a shelf and approaches them.
Good morning Lilly, glad you guys came to join us. We will be glad to have you for breakfast. He pauses for a moment in talking because one of their guests gives him an odd look upon mention of having them for breakfast ...While the meal is being prepared can you tell us any details you know about the newest murder? Are they saying that Kweku was a genuine murder or another copycat?
put puzzle back together=7
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 Monday January 11th, 2010 10:12:48 PM
Maikill watches as the halflings come in and can tell they are a bit timid to be around such large folk. When they mention they have come for breakfast Maikill can't help himself.
"I already had breakfast, perhaps I could have you for lunch?"
He then breaks into a laugh that sounds almost like a pig grunting.
Concerning Hobbits -- DM JIM Tuesday January 12th, 2010 12:23:07 AM
"I told you Burt! They means to eat us!" Exclaimed Cade as he began to back away. "Nonsense, Cade! Stop being a bother. For someone who's so smart, you haven't a wit in your brain" says Burwotti as he grabs his brother and pulls him back in. "These are my brothers, we've all met before," Lilly says as she starts the introductions and takes no notice of her brothers actions, "but not so formally. He's Burt, and the one trying to run away is Cade--as usual."
Once inside they say what they know about the murder, which is very little. In a nutshell, Kweku was killed at his desk last night. His assistant, who has a good alibi, found him this morning, so it seems the brain-eater has moved indoors.
When the smell of the fabulous breakfast Grendel has made wafts into the room, the three halflings clamber over each other to be first in line to eat.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 Tuesday January 12th, 2010 9:03:53 AM
Grendel rolls out breakfast and grabs an apple turnover before the onslaught of famished midgits and large muscled allies hits the table. "Come an git it!" As everyone makes for the food she finds a newly vacated seat to get comfy in and munches away at her breakfast. Quietly to herself she remarks, "Mud Town's not so bad..."
Breakfast -- DM JIM d20+4=14 ; d20+4=9 ; d20+2=14 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=3 ; d6=5 ; Tuesday January 12th, 2010 12:36:38 PM
Lilly and Cade were off in a dash, leaving poor Burt behind--he seemed more mature than either of his younger siblings anyways, so was less prone to forget his manners. It seemed an even heat, Lilly jumped, and Cade ducked under any obstacles, but in the end, it was Cade that reached the apple turnovers first. Noisily he crunched into one and remarked, "Mmmymodsmhismismood!"
Well seasoned cast iron skillet -- DM JIM Tuesday January 12th, 2010 12:45:14 PM
It was remarkable how well Grendel could cook--at the point of being sexist, she would make any man a fine wife, if they liked half-orcs that is. In the kitchen she seemed well versed and made a mean breakfast to rival many found in Mudtown or any other small village. She also recognized a good piece of kitchenware when she found it. In one of the cabinets she had found a well seasoned cast iron skillet that had looked unused for some time. She had cleaned it properly only with hot water and some salt and used it last time and also today and came to know the worth of it. It was perfect for making almost anything that would fit in it's 12" diameter face--it was a keeper. ------- ooc: the skillet is a masterwork item, giving you a +2 circumstance roll on your cooking skill :)
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 d20+5=13 ; Tuesday January 12th, 2010 12:54:03 PM
Being near Grendel, Maikill can't help but overhear her comment to herself.
"Mudtown ain't so bad if you ain't got brains, otherwise it seems dangerous. Me, I'm safe."
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells d20=19 ; d20=6 ; Tuesday January 12th, 2010 4:41:10 PM Grendel, you have really out done yourself this time. We may have to make it a point to restock the pantry more often if this is what you can do when properly supplied. Bosk quickly helps himself to some breakfast, carefully reaching over the halflings to get his share before it is all gone. Seeing no room at the table for someone of his stature he walks over to the middle of the room and eats his meal standing. As he waits for the others to complete their breakfast the minotaur picks up the puzzle Beri was playing with and quickly reassembles. As he does so a brief glint in his eyes hints at his true cunning, but once the puzzle is complete his eyes return to their normal relaxed state as he places the puzzle in his bag so it doesn't get forgotten on a shelf. (ooc: If Valla wants it back he can have it)
The young cleric occupies himself until it looks like everyone as about completed their meal. Waiting until the feeling of fullness sets in, relaxing the group while coffee is being served he tries to gather as much information as he can on the murders. Unfortunately he soon discovers that until the coffee takes affect his mind is a little slow in the mornings and he cannot remember all the questions he had intended to ask. I'll be glad when we stop these murders. I was wondering, do you happen to know....well...anything about the situation which you haven't told us? What time of night they murders occurred or anything of that nature?
Just great. the minotaur thinks to himself, I spend half the night thinking us questions that we need answered and now I can't remember what I had intended to ask. Next time I'll have to write them down. I worked hard to learn learn this language, I don't want the others thinking I am nor more intelligent than Maikill. He was right though, people don't think of us like other races. We have to work twice as hard to prove ourselves as "men".
============================== Int for puzzle d20= 19 Gather Information d20=6
Breakfast -- DM JIM Tuesday January 12th, 2010 5:02:10 PM
Bosk notices the puzzle box is put together wrong, very wrong, but sets it right after much concentration. Having seen how it was taken apart, it's easier to put back together, but it's still not an easy task to accomplish. Satisfied that it's as it should be, he places it in his bag and questions the halflings.
(Spot DC10 Highlight to display spoiler: {A sharp eye will notice Lilly is casing the place. Her intentions are unknown, but her brother Burwotti, a fellow rogue, is not casing the place. Perhaps it's just her nature.})
The only new info the three can give the group, that they remember right now, is that all the murders happened after midnight.
"So," begins Cade, "the first murder was who? A merchant dealing in wine? No, that was the second one. The first one was what, a book dealer? Then the third was ol'Iron pants himself, Black Harris. Now then, the next after him was uh, who was that again? I forgets, then this Kweku fella. Is there any relationshipship between any of them?"
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 d20+4=16 ; Tuesday January 12th, 2010 5:53:37 PM
Maikill, as always anxious to get moving paces the floor. Soon he wanders closer to the halfling Lily.
"You want me tell you where valuables are. Save you time. Maybe you get them fast, get away before they kill you. Maybe you luckier than you old boss."
spot 16
Lilly -- DM JIM d20+2=16 ; Tuesday January 12th, 2010 6:00:24 PM
"Wha? I don't know what you're talking about," Lilly retorted, looking genuinely hurt on her face, "I was just looking to see if you had anything like a... book to read."
Sense Motive DC16 Highlight to display spoiler: {Uhh, she's lying, duh.}
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells d20+4=12 ; Tuesday January 12th, 2010 6:01:27 PM
Bosk spots Lilly casing the store, but chooses to say nothing about it until Maikilldraws attention to it.
Relax Maikill, no one being that obvious is planning to steal from us. She is probablly just looking for the closest exit incase you get hungry. The blond cleric lets out a hearty laugh and does his best to soften his eyes and make it clear that was a joke and that no one would take him seriously. If one of their guests looks like they took him seroiously he will add with as straight a face as possible; Just kidding guys. Maikill is a vegitarian.
============================ Spot d20+4=12
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 d20+2=9 ; Tuesday January 12th, 2010 6:03:51 PM "Oh, I no read. Don't know where book is. Maybe Grendel help."
Maikill looks around and quickly spots Grendel, in a loud voice he says:
"Lily try find book to read. She look everywhere no find one. We have books?"
sense motive 9
Jacob -- DM JIM d20+2=13 ; Tuesday January 12th, 2010 7:43:41 PM
"Oh, I have a book she can read," Jacobs says quickly, then realizes who he may lend it too, "that's if, you don't mind reading here, in the shop."
"Oh, umm, what's it about?" Lilly asks, feigning interest.
"Architecture."
"Heh, no thanks."
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+1=4 ; d20+7=13 ; d20+7=9 ; Tuesday January 12th, 2010 8:42:30 PM
Beri takes his omelet and a large helping of hash brown, but opts out of having a sweet bear claw for breakfast. Let the halflings fight over it. He pours a little hot sauce on the eggs and smiles at Grendel.
This looks incredible, I love the peppers in the browns!
He takes his plate and a mug of coffee and wanders over to the steps. He slowly savors his breakfast when he suddenly hears Maikill yelling something about a book. Not having a book he goes back to his eggs.
I should try to pay more attention to what's going on, but these eggs are just soooo good.
sense motive=4 spot=13 listen=9
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 d20=15 ; Tuesday January 12th, 2010 9:42:15 PM
Xeron watches the commotion with a disinterested look, wondering what the fuss is about.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 Tuesday January 12th, 2010 10:03:21 PM "I never read book, what book you like to read?"
he looks with curiosity at Lily. This reading seems to attract a lot of attention for some reason.
Lilly -- DM JIM Tuesday January 12th, 2010 11:13:52 PM
"Pfft, I'll know when I see it." Lilly replied, somewhat annoyed and took another bite of her turnover. "So, Miss Grendel, was there a purpose for wanting to speak to my brothers today?"
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 d20+3=13 ; d20+3=7 ; Wednesday January 13th, 2010 10:31:18 AM
Grendel notices Lilly's actions as she cases the joint and watches quietly as Maikill confronts the small rogue. When Lilly offers the book explanation, Grendel almost jumps out of her seat... "How could she know that those were my intentions?!" she thinks to herself.
When Lilly questions Grendel's motives in arranging this little meeting, Grendel smiles and walks over to the little ones. "It's funny that you bring up books as that is exactly what I wanted to talk about..." With that she drops her spellbook with a heavy THUD infront of Cade. "The way I see it, you to owe us ransom. Instead of demanding it I'd offer Cade the opportunity for us to share each others spellbooks and both advance our knowledge. We could also use some aid in tracking down this Brain Eating Monster and would appreciate your help."
Crossing her arms she steps back and lets them chew on her offer... and her breakfast. "What say you?"
========== Spot: 13 (pass DC 10) Sense Motive: 7 (fail DC 16)
Cade -- DM JIM d20+2=12 ; Wednesday January 13th, 2010 10:45:39 AM "Swap spells? Well, I , uh, sure!" Cade wrestles his pack out and takes out a smaller spell book and slides it next to Grendels. Wiping his hands to make sure they were clean, Cade, with Grendel's permission, takes up her spellbook and begins to peruse it.
Cade's Spells ---------------- Shield: Invisible disc gives +4 to AC, blocks magic missiles. Mage Armor: Gives subject +4 armor bonus. Sleep: Puts 4 HD of creatures into magical slumber. Magic Missile: 1d4+1 damage; +1 missile per two levels above 1st (max 5). Ray of Enfeeblement: Ray deals 1d6 +1 per two levels Str damage. Expeditious Retreat: Your speed increases by 30 ft.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 d20+5=7 ; Wednesday January 13th, 2010 11:02:29 AM
Valla does take the morning to sleep in. After preparing his spells he sets off into another meditation; more for the stress during the last few days.
Xeron bringing his plan to his attention; that set Valla into gear. The boys right; we need to set a trap, at night to catch this thing... Sometimes I don't think right...
Valla finally comes from the room after everyone ate breakfast, right before the "Visiters" gave all the info they knew about last nights murder.
Another one? This is bad, although I think a plan has been formed my friends.
As Grendel demands arcane knowledge from Cade, Valla figures this is a great chance to get more spells, and then use tonight to search for the monster. Not noticing anything odd Valla makes his way over to Cade. I agree, he grins Share boy, as will I. He sets his spell book and scribing supplies on the table as well.
I think me and Grendel should do this bit of spell trading, while you guys get any supplies you think we may need for tonight; Xeron has came to me with a very interesting plan. Looking at Grendel; I think you should consider lending Xeron your special hat as well, it may prove useful; Valla looks to Xeron, Well, tell them friend, I'll not take credit for you good thinking.
Then Valla makes his way to get breakfast, and eats standing up while Xeron speaks; mumbling every so often, mmmgood food.... Grendel, good cook....
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Wednesday January 13th, 2010 11:03:16 AM OOC: Valla would like Puzzle back, for something to do when bored...
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells d20+3=20 ; d20+4=23 ; d20+3=12 ; Wednesday January 13th, 2010 12:27:29 PM Make sure you learn the spell he used to freeze my shoulder. That one was particularly annoying. Oh, and Lilly, please don't lie to us. Gargul has blessed me and helps me to know when someone is being dishonest. We know you weren't looking for a book. Don't worry, we're not mad. However if we are to get along and trust on another we need to be honest.
Bosk gives a quick smile in the halflings direction. While the others trade spells Bosk uses the time to give the house a good once over. Something about Lilliy was not right and images of the store being looted or a tentacle monster sneaking in start playing in his mind.
================================
Sense Motive[b/] d20+3=[b]20 Spot[b/] d20+4=[b]23 Listen[b/] d20+3=[b]12
Valla now has th puzzle.
Lilly -- DM JIM Wednesday January 13th, 2010 12:34:39 PM "Liar? you calling me a liar?" Lilly was mad, really mad. "Let's go boys." Turning to leave, she could see Cade about to protest and she reinforced her actions with a terse, "Now." Shrugging his shoulders, Cade set down Grendel's book, took back his own and left with his two siblings, looking dejected. After her brothers exit, Lilly makes sure to slam the door closed behind them. ------- There was not enough time to share any spells.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells d20=3 ; Wednesday January 13th, 2010 12:40:31 PM
Seeing Lilly take offense, Bosk quickly apologizes. What. No. Sorry. You guys are welcome here any time. You stay, I'll leave.
If they accept his offer Bosk will go outside. If not he will apologize to the group and continue his search.
Lilly -- DM JIM Wednesday January 13th, 2010 1:28:26 PM
Lilly pays no heed to Bosk's words as they leave--some would say she is "high maintenance."
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 Wednesday January 13th, 2010 1:40:35 PM
OOC: Time to list Grendel's spells for the day before the morning is done: Spoiler, highlight to review: Highlight to display spoiler: { Wizard: Detect Magic, Prestidigitation, Acid Splash, Charm Person, Burning Hands Cleric: Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Mending, CLW(D), Remove Fear, Command }
Danke Jim!
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Wednesday January 13th, 2010 2:36:29 PM
Xeron is all shocked when Valla asks him to say his plan out loud. He is so surprised , he drops his dagger. As he kneels to pick it up, he hears more commotions as people are calling each other names and the halflings leave the place.
He looks at everyone, shaking his head but says nothing. He takes a deep breath and starts speaking.
"I was thinking, yeah I know, it sounds strange coming from me, as I said I was thinking that you cannot catch this thing being in group or being locked inside. So if the group is willing to increase my share of the brain eater ransom, I am willing to go out there at night and pretend to be a drunken merchant and walk the streets. The one in the group willing to risk it can be within distance if they wnt and may be help me catch that thing. Why me? well I have no family and no goal. So if the plan fails, it will be okay as getting into Hook City was never one of my objectives in life. "
He goes back to the wall and looking at the ground, restart playing with his dagger.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 20 of 20 Spells Wednesday January 13th, 2010 3:06:27 PM
Bosk shakes his head. Two half orcs and a self declared low life of Mud Town and I am the one acting uncivilized. What is wrong with me? At this time he makes a promise to himself that he will speak to Grendel later and try to learn to act more....he pauses a minute. How does she act? Is it generosity or is it that she is planning ahead? Or could it be that she does not realize that these people could be truely dangerous? It didn't matter, either way he had to change. He could never let it be said that an orc had better manners than he did.
Xeron's idea is a welcome change of pace and the young cleric is glad for any reason to get him mind aware from his self condemnation. That is an interesting idea, however any plans should wait until after we are done in Hook City and have safely escorted Jacob inside. Also, if it will help, I am goind to start asking Gargul to grant me the abillity of Death Watch, so that I will be able to sense those in the area who are dead or dying. It may aid our search of the town.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 Wednesday January 13th, 2010 3:39:57 PM
Grendel just stares as the halflings rush out. It feels like someone just punched her in the gut and her face pales in reaction. As silent tears begin to stream down her face she snatches up her spellbook and runs upstairs, clenching the tome to her bosom. "I won't cry in front of them, they wouldn't understand what this arcane lore means to me anyway." A loud slam sounds from upstairs as she barricades herself in one of the empty rooms.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 Wednesday January 13th, 2010 4:18:30 PM
Maikill stands scratching his head and looks over to Bosk.
"I thought she wanted read book? Why you say she lie?"
then Grendel rushes upstairs with tears on her face.
"What just happen?"
on Bosk's idea of waiting, Maikill adds:
"He say he wait two nights before enter city. Still time tonight to kill brain eater, go into city maybe tomorrow or later. People die, we should help. Helping better than make money, money no make happy. Mother tell me that. I no understand Xeron idea good, but we all help same. Kill monster together."
Jacob -- DM JIM Wednesday January 13th, 2010 4:36:07 PM
Politely interrupting the conversation, Jacob lets the group know that tonight is the last night before he heads into Hook City tomorrow.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 Wednesday January 13th, 2010 4:57:24 PM
Maikill beams. "I remember good. We kill monster tonight, get reward in morning, then go to Hook City tomorrow. Have money to spend. Good plan Xeron. We do it. Maybe Xeron get extra 20 gp for idea?"
LOL! That cracks me up, 20gp, LOL! DM Jim
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Wednesday January 13th, 2010 5:36:50 PM
An unusual smile goes over the rogue face when Maikill mentions 20 gold pieces.
"Big guy, I was thinking a little bit more, not for the idea but for the risk. That creature is smart so if it is obvious, I am being watched, it won't attack me. We need certain distance to ensure that the monster really believe I am alone, which mean I could be dead tonight. If I end up dying please take all my possessions and give them to Lola the Red in Pleasure Alley. "
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 Wednesday January 13th, 2010 5:38:47 PM "Okay you dead we pay you more, you alive then pay same?"
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Wednesday January 13th, 2010 6:53:29 PM
Beri glances over at Xeron and shakes his head. I will volunteer to be the decoy. I don't need to be paid extra to do it, I trust you guys to keep me alive. Besides, I've been attacked by it before, I would love to play a bigger role in it's destruction.
Sanji -- DM JIM Thursday January 14th, 2010 1:30:21 AM
"You're just hoping that this thing gets you? Don't we have some more information than that so we can form a plan, maybe outwit it?" Sanji asks. "I don't even remember the first victim, does anyone else? Maybe him or the other's have a tie in with the latest victim, Kweku?"
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 Thursday January 14th, 2010 9:48:17 AM
Grendel decides to focus her mind on something else to ease the emotions that rage within her. Alright, Brain eater... focus... Brain Eater... only hitting merchants so far. Hit the Book Dealer, Wine Maker, This shop owner, then Hammond Delves the rare animal merchant, then Gerald Hunsinger the book dealer and now Kweku the ink maker. What's the pattern? 2 book dealers and an ink maker are related in trade. Black Harris had possession of the puzzlebox with the gem inside... presumably this was the reason he was targeted. What about the wine maker and animal dealer? There has got to be some connections...
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Thursday January 14th, 2010 11:36:50 AM
Xeron shrugs at Bero comments.
He goes to Maikill and taps the huge barbarian on the shoulder "You do not know it but you are the smartest member of this group "
Finally he goes see Sanji "I'll work on the shop today. "
Sanji -- DM JIM Thursday January 14th, 2010 12:02:47 PM
"Doing what?" Sanji asks in reply to Xeron's offer of help. "The shop is clean and we are not open for business as of yet."
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 Thursday January 14th, 2010 1:34:22 PM "I no smart, why you say that?" he looks with suspicion at Xeron.
He walks upstairs looking for Grendel, and softly knocks on the door.
"You okay? Sorry I call Lily thief, no understand she only want book. No understand why people read, no think of that. I worry about brain eater now too."
OOC: okay Maikill shouldn't be the one to work this out but Kewku was mentioned by one killed before him. They also say Numitor a calligrapher had talked to him (Hunsinger). Numitor looks like a likely candidate for having his brains sucked out. We should go talk to him, maybe set up a sting operation there if we don't come up with better ideas. Also, we should talk to Kewku's kin.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Thursday January 14th, 2010 2:06:00 PM
Xeron looks at Maikill with pure honesty in the eyes "I mean it man, you are the smartest one here. Just never forget that "
He looks at Sanji with a surprised look "Well may you need help getting the shop to open? Like going over the inventory or cleaning or whatever?" He stops and with a certain annoyance in his voice "Fortget about. This is the second time I offer to help you and this is second time you turn me down. You think I would not be that stupid and I would learn. "
With Grendel in her room and Bosk and Valla silent, Xeron decides to go out and wanders the muddy streets, like a refreshing return to his roots.
============================================================================ OOC: Mysteries are hard to solve in tabletop but at least discussion can happen as people discuss it during the game session. In a PbP, hints dropped by the DM are lost and it because very hard to impossible to put 2 and 2 together. MY 2 cents.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 Thursday January 14th, 2010 2:55:49 PM "Leave me alone!" Grendel snaps as someone knocks on her door. Stupid little halflings... steal my shot to gain some much needed spells... rig our shop for an easy break-in... nevermind there is still a Brain Eater on the loose. I gorram hate this place.
Gerald Hunsinger loved to read and last spoke with 3 people... Kweku the ink maker, who is now dead... and Yosef the baker and Numitor the calligrapher. We should visit Yosef and see if he likes to read as well. Undoubtedly, Numitor is connected to all of this as well.
With that Grendel bursts out of the room and slides down the railing of the staircase. "Sanji, one of the bars in the girl's bedroom upstairs has been loosened, see if you can't secure it." Grabbing up her gear she makes for the door. "Got a lead on the Brain Eater, let's go!" With that she heads out the door headed for Yosef the Baker's place.
Maikill HP 28/28, AC17 Thursday January 14th, 2010 3:29:55 PM
Maikill backs away from the door as Grendel shouts, a look of alarm on his face. This is more complicated than he will ever be able to understand. To think, Xeron calls him smart and he can't even figure out why the hafling woman and now Grendel are upset. He can't figure out women, he will never be able to figure out something more complicated like reading.
As Grendal heads out the front door, Maikill follows and shouts behind him.
"You heard her, let's go find the brain eater. Now."
Yosef's Boulangerie -- DM JIM Thursday January 14th, 2010 4:37:18 PM
Quick on the heels of Grendel, the group followed at a quick pace as the tempest of a woman stormed down the street--asking passersby where Yosef's was. Soon they were all at the crudely built shack, with Yosef's establishments sign hanging by a few lengths of rope from an oddly angled roof brace (he must have built the shack himself). "Allo, very nice to meet you," Yosef says, his accent heavy from some foreign land. "How may I help you?" ---------- ooc: whoever wants to be there, can. It is mid-morning, about 10ish.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 d20+4=9 ; d20+4=7 ; Thursday January 14th, 2010 5:17:39 PM
Grendel lays it out no non-sense for Yosef. "You were one of three people Gerald Hunsinger spoke to before he died. You, Kweku and Numitor the Calligrapher. Kweku died last night in his shop. I fear you may be a target yourself or possibly behind these attacks. Care to fill us in on why these attacks are happening?"
================== Diplomacy: 9 (Sorry, browser popped it twice)
Yosef's Boulangerie -- DM JIM d20+4=18 ; Thursday January 14th, 2010 5:42:35 PM
"Wha? What you say? I kill Kweku? You crazy! Kwe was my friend, I just talked to him two day ago!"
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 13/13 Thursday January 14th, 2010 7:49:38 PM
Grendel nods, "That's my point. You also spoke with Gerald Hunsinger two days ago, he too is dead. Might I inquire as to what you all were talking about those days ago? There seems to be a thread that connects all these murders and you. If we can pin-point the connection we may be able to keep you from being the next meal for this Brain Eating monster. What do you say? Want to tell us what you all were talking about?"
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 Thursday January 14th, 2010 8:15:56 PM
Beri chases after Grendel and Maikill, eager to track down the brain eating coward that attacked him a few nights ago. He hopes that Maikill isn't going to say something antagonizing to provoke another fight, but hopefully with a level headed cleric leading things will go smoothly. Almost as soon as they arrive Grendel accuses Yosef of murder... not the way he would have started asking questions, but he is going to trust Grendel as she is the one who has pieced together what is going on. Still, Beri decides it is best to make sure he stays toward the back of the group in case Yosef doesn't respond well to this direct approach.
Yosef's Boulangerie -- DM JIM 5d6=14 ; Thursday January 14th, 2010 8:20:58 PM
Yosef's eyes furtively skip back and forth over all your faces. It's obvious he doesn't know if he can trust any of you with the information he has, but he closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. His clenched hands loosen and he begins to talk, "Num...
BOOM!
The back of Yosef's head explodes in a ball of flame that engulfs him, his shop and washes over the group. ---- DC16 Reflex save. Fail = 14 damage, Save = 7 damage.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 d20+4=11 ; Thursday January 14th, 2010 8:48:11 PM
Valla sits quietly through all the commotion during the morning; finally Grendel rushes downstairs, saying she has a lead on the brain eater. Seriously? What is this woman thinking... Too much is going on for myself to think clearly, I surly cannot figure out any connection so far... Lets see what happens... Valla stands, and rushes behind Grendel, forgetting his staff on the ground.
When they arrive, and Grendel starts fireballing questions, Valla's mouth nearly drops to the ground, Maybe you should........ Ok, well we don't think...... Seriously... AHHH! Valla screams as the fire ball takes his by surprise; the flames ignite old scars, searing pain washes over the elf, setting his skin on fire. He screams in agony as he drops to the floor. He tears at himself, wanting the burning flesh off.
Finally, after several seconds of agonizing screams, Valla becomes a seemingly lifeless mound of ash and scarred flesh.
The pain, it stopped... Where am I? Blackness... Darkness... No wonder my father ran.... If he couldn't stand for this, how can I?
You fall unconscious, but I'll give you a few seconds of screams :) DM Jim
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:7/7 d20+5=21 ; Thursday January 14th, 2010 8:54:39 PM
Beri shouts an Elvish profanity as he throws himself to the ground to avoid the roaring flames and fragments of skull come hurtling towards him.
Reflex Save=d20+5=21
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP -1/13 d20=8 ; d100=39 ; Thursday January 14th, 2010 9:55:39 PM
The last thing Grendel sees is Yosef mouthing the name "Num..." but the image quite literally burns into her memory.
ooc: remember you each have a charm from Jim that lets you reroll once per ingame week. =)
Maikill HP 14/28, AC17 d20+2=10 ; d20+2=17 ; Thursday January 14th, 2010 10:16:46 PM
Maikill takes the full brunt of the blast, flames washing over him. He is surprised that he still stands as those around him drop. Immediately he drops down and tries to help Grendel with first aid treatment.
"What happened?" he seems to say to himself.
reflex save 10 heal check on Grendel 17
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 6 of 20 Spells d20+3=9 ; d20+3=13 ; d20+4=22 ; d8+1=4 ; Thursday January 14th, 2010 11:50:00 PM
Bosk shakes his head as the others run out the door.These guys are going to get me killed! How much more evidence do we need that this is a dangerous creature and that we need to plan things out before charging all over Mud Town? Has it never occurred to them that we should no be splitting up? Mud Town is dangerous enough without this thing on the loose. For all we know it is a lich or one of the undead horrors my father used to speak of. Even worse, we are leaving Jacob less secure this way. How do we know this thing will not attack in a building again or during daylight again? With all the murders, how much longer will it be able to find lone merchants? It will start having to go after groups.[/b] Despite being upset by the turn of events, Bosk follows after Grendel feeling it dishonorable to not be present if there is a chance that some members in his group may be placed in danger, especially with one of them being a woman. As the Grendel questions Yosef, he is surprised at her attitude, suggesting he might be behind the attacks. This was definitely more direct and less diplomatic the he would have expected. [i]If there is a chance he is behind the attacks, why didn't we bring the entire group with us? As he ponders this the young cleric keeps his eyes and ears open for any signs of danger and will (would) act accordingly.
Suddenly finding himself bathed in flame, the minotaur prepares for battle. Just as he reaches for his morning star he realizes that something is out of place. Valla's shouting stopped and he hears the squelching thud of several bodies collapsing like rag dolls in the mud. Gargul's Eye he mutters to himself as the full extent of the devastation he was seeing and the full extent of the danger of their situation dawns on him. Turning around the young cleric calls to Maikill, Grab Grendel and anyone else you can carry and follow me. I can save her, but only if we get to safety. If we stay here they will all die! If Maikill helps, Bosk will carry them to safety as fast as he can move. If not, he will grab his companions by the most convenient limb or article of clothing and drag them as fast as he can to some sort of sheltered location or safety. Once there he will immediately heal Grendel and bring her back to consciousness.
(If anyone is on fire, Bosk will also make sure they are extinguished.)
==================================== Reflex d20+3=9 Spot d20+4=22 Listen d20+3=13 CLW 1d8+1=4 Spontaneously cast in place of Bless
Maikill HP 14/28, AC17 Friday January 15th, 2010 10:42:43 AM
Maikill will do as Bosk suggests and carries Grendel out to some shelter. Once he has done so, he will return and carry out anyone else who has fallen.
Yosef's Boulangerie -- DM JIM Friday January 15th, 2010 11:57:28 AM
ooc: waiting on Xeron... :)
Maikill HP 14/28, AC17 Friday January 15th, 2010 2:26:16 PM
OOC: Last post he mentioned he was going on a walk around Mudtown. "With Grendel in her room and Bosk and Valla silent, Xeron decides to go out and wanders the muddy streets, like a refreshing return to his roots." Correct me if I am wrong and you changed your mind Al.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Friday January 15th, 2010 2:36:45 PM
OOC: Valla is unconcious as well; at -2 hp.... Hence the screams, and thoughts about a dark place.
Maikill HP 14/28, AC17 Friday January 15th, 2010 3:03:42 PM
OOC: yea, I didn't miss that. it was very good in fact. It is just that Maikill feels he owes his life to Grendel. I wasn't sure if Bosk was grabbing you or not, so I said I would go back and grab whomever else was still there. You are on the list, just near the bottom.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 6 of 20 Spells Friday January 15th, 2010 3:45:05 PM
ooc: I can carry one person or drag everone. If Maikill only carried one person (which he did) my intent was to drag everyone else to safety incase the building collapsed or the brain eater was around.
Yosef's Boulangerie -- DM JIM Friday January 15th, 2010 4:18:48 PM
Bosk and Maikill manage to pull everyone away from the remains of Yosef's shop--it's burning hull lighting the area like a bonfire. Yosef is obviously dead; Valla remains unconscious, Beri is disabled and the rest are conscious, but hurt. Xeron is nowhere to be found.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 6 of 20 Spells d8+1=3 ; Friday January 15th, 2010 6:11:31 PM
Seeing that Grendel has revived, Bosk works quickly to restore Beri and Valla. Grendel will have to finish patching them up, but in thr mean time this will keep them among the living. Placing one hand upon the wooden eye hung around his neck and other upon Valla and Beri in turn the blond cleric calls for Gargul's blessing as he casts CLW on Valla and CmW on Beri (assuming Beri is still at 0 and not -1)
CLW[b/] d8+1= [b]3 CmW+1hp
Yosef's Boulangerie -- DM JIM Friday January 15th, 2010 7:41:15 PM
It started raining again, soft at first, as if the sky was weeping, then hard in sheets of rain for what seemed like an eternity. It hadn't rained in almost a day in Mudtown, so one could say the clouds were just catching up on lost time. The sky over Hook City proper remained clear and free of any clouds or instances of weather other than perfect. What remained of Yosef's shack smouldered and sputtered against the rain, but eventually it was little more than a crater of burnt wood. The group stared on at the sight from their perceived vantage point of safety across the muddy path.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:1/7 Friday January 15th, 2010 9:55:05 PM
Beriothis lays in agony, watching the thin wisps of smoke floating up from the ruins of Yoseph's store. He's not quite sure what has happened, but he is sure things did go horribly wrong. He pulls out an ornamental silver flask from his breast pocket and closes his eyes in prayer for a moment, thanking Wardd for once again granting him the speed he needed to keep from dying. Upon finishing his prayer he takes a small sip from the flask and replaces it to his pocket. As he finishes he looks up to see the massive Taur casting a spell on him and thanks the cleric for his kindness.
Maikill HP 14/28, AC17 d20+5=13 ; d20+4=10 ; Saturday January 16th, 2010 3:08:26 PM
Now that they are in relative safety and nobody appears to by dying, Maikill leaves the healing to Bosk and stands in front of the group with axe in hand. He scans the burning shop and street, trying to make sense of what just happened.
"He start to say name of other person, then his head explode. I no say name. No want head explode too."
listen 13 spot 10
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 3/13 Saturday January 16th, 2010 4:08:18 PM
Grendel reaches up and grabs at Bosks throat as the giant 'taur revives her. With a wild look in her eyes she speaks firmly, "NOT YET GARGUL..." before focusing on Bosk's face and lowering her arm with a smile and a cough.
Sitting up she survey's the situation. "Are we still under attack? Who needs healing?!" If there is nothing else here Grendel will encourage everyone to move back to the shop to keep Jacob safe. Things in Mud Town are getting out of hand...
Yosef's Boulangerie -- DM JIM Saturday January 16th, 2010 4:17:46 PM
ooc: just to clarify, the spell emanated from the back of Yosef's head, it was not cast elsewhere.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 6 of 20 Spells Saturday January 16th, 2010 9:08:21 PM
As Grendel call out to Gargul the massive taur freezes in his tracks. Gargul....If he's here then we are in more trouble than I thought. Suddenly he feels the half-orcs hand fly up to his throat. Unable to help himself the blond cleric cracks a smile as he realizes that he was just mistaken for the Lord of Life and Death. Sorry to dissapoint you, but Gargul's not ready for you yet.
Yosef's Boulangerie -- DM JIM Monday January 18th, 2010 2:06:09 PM
ooc: are you guys waiting on me? Are you wanting to head back to the shop, or heal up and go somewhere else...?
Maikill HP 14/28, AC17 Monday January 18th, 2010 2:24:45 PM
OOC: I say we heal up and go talk to the other person. Time is running out.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 3/13 Monday January 18th, 2010 3:39:27 PM
Per my last post, Grendel would like to head back to the shop. Time to lick our wounds.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 11 of 20 Spells d8+1=5 ; Monday January 18th, 2010 4:17:13 PM
Bosk will head back to the shop. After talking to the group he will heal himself, unless the group wants him to save his last spell for death watch.
The Shop -- DM JIM Monday January 18th, 2010 4:40:20 PM
Perhaps feeling like they're in over their heads, and badly wounded, the group heads back to the shop. Once inside they lock the doors and rest. ------ It's a still a couple more hours to midnight and Xeron has not returned.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:1/12 Monday January 18th, 2010 5:09:11 PM
OOC: I assume Valla is a 1 hp?
Valla merely lies in the mud, awaiting care from Bosk and Grendel, Thanks big buddy... Don't know where I'd be, or how alive I'd be, without you... Valla softly says to Bosk...
Once back at the shop, Valla makes a makeshift bed in the middle of the floor. Using his bedroll and what not. While lying down, resting, Valla begins to worry abit about his new friend, Xeron.
Where did the boy go? Possibly to see miss Red? I wonder...
After a few minutes, Valla stands. He looks to Grendel, Can I ask a favor miss flower? Could you heal me up a bit? I understand the scars the flames must have left on my face, I can still smell the singing flesh...I refuse to look into a mirror now, for sure... But at least could you make these wounds stop hurting?
I think Yosef knew something, or was being watched. I think the spell that was cast from his head was merely a trap... I think we should look for this N.... Valla stops himself before speaking the name, Maikills words loud inside his own head.. "He start to say name of other person, then his head explode. I no say name. No want head explode too."
He shakes his head side to side; We need to settle this soon... I say rest up tonight and tommorow, and we patrol all night long when were ready for battle. Grendel and I should probably use this down time to make up any more scrolls we think might be useful. Consider this plan friends.... Valla finishes with a sincerity in his voice, a bit of worry as well...
Where is Xeron...
The Shop -- DM JIM Monday January 18th, 2010 5:33:57 PM
Sanji asks, "Don't you guys go into Hook City tomorrow morning with Jacob?"
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 3/13 d8+2=9 ; Monday January 18th, 2010 7:00:52 PM
Grendel nods and says a pray over Valla while touching his face. The burning sensation immediately vanishes leaving only a faint tingle. Grendel is indeed the consumate healer. "My thoughts were originally to trade scrolls with you to widen our spell selection but now I think we could use the extra magic in our pockets. I've got a single charm spell and a burning hands spell prepared today, might as well toss them on a scroll."
Looking to Sanji and the others Grendel nods, "Aye... maybe we can get the guard of Hook City involved since this beasty likes to prowl on merchants. Either that or we kick in 'N'-man's door before we get into Hook City?" ================= CLW on Valla: 9hp healed.
The Shop -- DM JIM Monday January 18th, 2010 7:08:54 PM
ooc: there isn't enough time tonight to craft scrolls safely. You'll need 8 hours and it'll be past your normal rest time. if you'd like to try you would need 4 Fort saves to stay awake. Failure on anyone means you've lost the spells, xp spent and the scroll itself.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:1/7 d20+9=23 ; Monday January 18th, 2010 8:04:05 PM
Beriothian walks into the store, obviously upset over the headstrong approach the group took during the last encounter... or possibly just upset that once again he finds himself covered in mud and not having been any help in battle. He listens to Grendel and Valla avoid using Numitor's name as they talk...
I don't think we have to avoid saying his name, after all Grendel said it during her confrontation right before the guys head exploded... that said, I'm not going to be the first to say it unless I'm standing next to someone I really don't like.
He walks into the kitchen and fixes himself a light meal consisting largely of cool liquids, then returns to the main room of the shop.
I'm going to start my trance early tonight so I'm in a little better shape when I start my watch. I suggest we take extra care to check all possible enterances tonight since half of us are wounded and since Lilly was messing with the bars.
Beriothian does a thorough search of the building before starting his trance. Search=d20+9=23 ;
You find nothing unusual in your search. DM Jim
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 3/13 Monday January 18th, 2010 9:09:33 PM
Grendel laughs at Berothian's comment about not saying the name unless he is standing next to someone he doesn't like. "I feel like we're over our heads on this one. That said, I'm all for crashing the place of N... the name that must not be uttered... tomorrow morning. If we're still alive we'l escort Jacob into Hook City and put this behind us for a few days."
Sanji -- DM JIM Monday January 18th, 2010 9:39:27 PM
"Do you think he'll still be alive? Seems like everyone else you guys have found about, have bit it."
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:1/7 Monday January 18th, 2010 9:41:49 PM I say we do not run head first into our destruction this time. Besides, we made an agreement with Jacob, let's fulfill our contract first. We would be smarter to wait until we are healed and have done a little more research before continuing with such a dangerous, brain eating monster. There is no reason for us to be so reckless every chance we get.
The Shop -- DM JIM Monday January 18th, 2010 9:52:28 PM
ooc: okay, give me some actions and for how long.
Maikill HP 14/28, AC17 Monday January 18th, 2010 10:06:09 PM
Maikill again seems anxious to be indoors, in the relative safety of the shop.
"Maybe there is no brain eater, maybe I see something else at Pig Alley. Maybe the head explode like we just saw, brains go out. People think they eaten, but they scattered on walls. We go warn man not to say names, keep his brains.
We have until tomorrow to stop brain leak. Then we go to City. Rest there, no trouble in City. Everyone happy."
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 11 of 20 Spells Monday January 18th, 2010 10:16:45 PM
Listening in on the others conversation, the cleric throws in his two cents. I suggest we wait until after we return from Hook City to investigate this matter further. What ever this thing is, we have clearly underestimated its abillities. If there had been a second explosion like the one we just experienced, it is very likely that none of us would be standing here right now. I suggest we wait not only until Xeron returns, but until after we go with Jacob into Hook City tomorrow and see what we can learn there. It would be a real shame to encounter the beast and miss our chance to get access. I have been dreaming about the chance to get some Steel Grass Armor almost as badly as I imagine Grendel has been to learn some new spells. Besides, I think our first course of action must be to learn more about this "brain eater" and my only idea is to see if we can find a Monsterologer, and the only place I can think to find one is in side the city proper. I have a feeling that even with our entire group, and currently we are missing Xeron, we are going to need to know the things weaknesses and tactics if we hope to defeat it.
ooc: If no one says otherwise in the near future, I am going to assume that no one wanted me to save my last spell to search for the creature or for Xeron.
I would like to stay in the shop until we leave for Hook City with Jacob.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 11 of 20 Spells Monday January 18th, 2010 10:47:03 PM
ooc: Grendel, how many CLW do you have left? I have 1 CLW and w CmW.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 8/13 d8+2=5 ; d8+2=10 ; Monday January 18th, 2010 11:04:11 PM
Grendel nods and blows the rest of her healing before hitting the sack for the night. "Better luck tomorrow." She will check with Sanji that the loose bars have been repaired beforehand.
remember, you heal 1hp/lv when you rest at night. =)
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells Monday January 18th, 2010 11:51:04 PM
Seeing Grendel use the rest her healing spells Bosk takes it as a sign that she won't go charging out again tonight and decides hoelw best to use his remaining spells. Although he feels bad for Beri, in the end the cleric decides he must use the last CLW on himself incase once again Grendel gets knocked out in the morning and he will need to stay alive long enough to revive her. After this Bosk walks over to Beri, and placing a hand on his shoulder recites some of the prayers of old in his native tongue. It may not be much, but it should keep you through the night.
I wonder where Xeron is? Doesn't he realize it is dishonorable not to fulfill a contract. Probably down at Pleasure Alley again....
CLW on Bosk=+5 hp (on earlier post) CmW on Beri x2=+2hp
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells Monday January 18th, 2010 11:53:24 PM
Sorry, misread Grendel's post. Make it 1 CmW for Beri and 1 CmW for Bosk.
Maikill HP 24/28, AC17 Tuesday January 19th, 2010 10:20:22 AM "Thank for heal me Grendel."
Maikill stops his pacing as it becomes clear to him that they are not going to chase after this creature tonight. He can't stop fidgeting though. It has been a confusing few days. He has been nearly killed three times, he was scared witless by something in Pig Alley and then again by some phantom appearance of his dear dead mother. Now a brain explodes for no apparent reason. To top it off, tomorrow they go into Hook City and leave all these worries behind.
"Okay, Maikill listen to smart people. We no go out again tonight. I take watch during dark part of night."
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Tuesday January 19th, 2010 11:06:35 AM
Xeron returns to the shop, all wet and muddy. His face is stoic and shows no expression. He asked Valla what happened and does not react to the tale of the exploding merchant head. Not the usual shaking of the head or the rolling of the eyes. Nothing.
He asks Valla "Can I help you with anything Elf? Water?"
He goes see the gigantic Taur and pat him on the back. And he goes back to his usual spot against the wall by the window and plays with his dagger.
No emotions, no anger, no happiness, nothing is showing on his face.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells d20+4=11 ; d20+3=15 ; Tuesday January 19th, 2010 11:51:30 AM
Bosk sighs and shows a visible sense of relief as Xeron pats him on the shoulder. I am glad you are safe, after our unexpected adventure I was beginning to worry. I should have know you would come out all right. As Xero returns to the corner, Bosk begins to worry again. Over the past few days the young rogue seems to have become more and more detached. Was this the way which humans expressed stress and fear, or was was it something deeper. For a moment he wished he had Grendel's gentle touch and way with emotion, but that idea is short lived. He couldn't see Xeron opening up unless there was the excuse of an over indulgence of Flaming Gnomish, and somehow he couldn't see him readily opening up to a woman. What am I thinking? I have only known him a few days and already I am making assumptions on his character. A rogue from Mud Town, for all I know this is a trap. The cleric pauses for a moment and looks back towards the emotionless rogue and lets out another sigh. [/i]It's no use, I have to speak to him. Perhaps we can find a nice bar in Hook City, somehow I don't feel safe letting my guard down and dulling my wits in this town.[/i]
===================================== Bosk will take one of the darker night watches. As usual he will sleep in his light armor and change back into his current armor when he awakes.
spot d20+4=11 listen d20+3=15
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Tuesday January 19th, 2010 12:53:47 PM
Xeron keeps playing with his dagger until he let's it fall on the ground. The dagger digs itself deep into the floor. The rogue kneels and talking to his dagger, he says in a emotionless voice "So this is it? We use the excuse of protecting our client to do nothing because we might get hurt? There is a foul play out there and we could stop it but we rather stay inside because we are safe? We have a lead. Let's use it. If you are too afraid, I'll go alone. After all, death does not scare me because I have no future. Bosk, Valla, give my stuff to Lola the Red if I die. Tell her it is from Little X. Also spend my gold to bury me near my mother. I do not want to finish in Pig Alley. Anyone else ready to come visit the third merchant with me?"
He is very matter of fact, with no emotion showing. He picks up his dagger which quickly disappear in his clothing and starts moving toward the door.
The Shop -- DM JIM Tuesday January 19th, 2010 1:19:26 PM
ooc: Xeron's post coincided with mine, but I'll allow his post to trump mine since his action will decide the future of all those involved.
Stay or go.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:1/12 Tuesday January 19th, 2010 1:35:01 PM
Valla thanks Grendel for the healing, and realizes he can't scribe scrolls tonight. With those thoughts, he merely sat at the table nibbling on dry bread, drinking a mug of water... He knows its high time the group did something about this monster, but feels we are missing somthing.
complex lock... head exploding? Maybe not a monster at all... Wizard; Sorcerer.... Magical being... I need to study, this monstoligist Bosk spoke about might be a good idea.
Then Xeron walks in; Hey buddy.... Is all Valla has to say. Shaking his head at the water request...
When Xeron has his moment of truth, Valla stands, nodding his head. He locates his staff on the floor of the shop, picks it up, and stamps it on the floor. I agree. Were not that injured. Its those who take risk who prosper; not the ones who stay safe. Life is a gamble. This is Hook City to boot...
Valla grins; dreaming of his own tower set in Hook City proper. Its vague for now, but things will unfold.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:1/12 Tuesday January 19th, 2010 1:37:29 PM
OOC: I was posting as Grendel did. I thought Xerons post took place the night before??? Why did Grendel go to the next morning?
--- My fault and coinciding posts.
It is still the night before heading off into Hook City. Both Valla and Xeron want to go after the brain-eater, this effectivily splits the group up if I go into morning, so I've backtracked a little. I've privated Grendel's post to allow us all to stay on the same page/night. DM JIM
p.s. I like the idea of the tower, but it would look better in Mudtown don't ya think :)
Maikill HP 24/28, AC17 Tuesday January 19th, 2010 1:59:10 PM "I follow Grendel. If she go, I go."
The Shop -- DM JIM Tuesday January 19th, 2010 2:01:23 PM
ooc: please update any headers and healing,spells etc, if you're leaving the safety of the shop.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 8/13 Tuesday January 19th, 2010 2:18:24 PM "IF we go... we're walking into some danger. Most of us are wounded still, we're completely out of healing magic, and whatever it is that we're fighting against it has the resources to drop a fireball spell... I can't even explain just how out of our league that is!" Grendel tirades against the mission.
With a sigh of resignation she adds, "But if the team is going, I'll tag along and do what I can to keep some of you from bleeding out in the mud. Hemust, Jillian and Sanji... arm yourselves just incase and for goodness sake, keep Jacob safe in the store."
The Shop -- DM JIM Tuesday January 19th, 2010 2:22:02 PM
ooc: as I posted before and if you survive this :)
ooc: guys, set a goal for yourself, or try to push others towards a goal; voice them in game or even in emails to me and I'll try to make it happen. Currently I'm working on Maikill's mother plot, Bosk's steelgrass addiction, and now Valla's tower. So if you can give me some ideas of what you want your character to pursue, please let me know. Thanks! DM Jim
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Tuesday January 19th, 2010 4:30:10 PM
Xeron looks at the group. Valla and Bosk are up for it. Grendel is doing it against her better sense. Maikill follows Grendel. His eyes ends up on Beri. He nods at the fellow rogue as if "let's go".
"Here is my plan. We go visit the 3rd merchant but we instruct him to say nothing. We explain what we know about the previous death and what has happened to Josef. May be we can even write it. Then we, actualu Valla go so the back of his head to see if there is a glyph or anything that would activate a spell. Basically a trap. Beri and I can be useful looking at trap. Then we ask him to write down what he knows. In case he goes kaboom aso, I would say that Bosk and Grendel stays outside of the shop, ready to come save who can be save."
He points a flask in his backback to Bosk. "If I am unconcious but still breathing, force feed me this potion. It will prevent me from dying (CLW Potion). So shall we go visit the next potential victim "
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells Tuesday January 19th, 2010 4:44:37 PM
Hearing Xeron's comments the taur shakes his head. Sorry to break it to you Xeron, but I can't heal anyone else until sunrise. Just as he says this the rogue presses the potion into his hands. Xeron, you know I want to stop this creature as badly as you do, but we have an obligation to Jacob. Besides, the creature has started attacking merchants in doors. That not only puts Jacob more at risk, but it also makes it less likely that another merchant would let us in or speak to us and increases the likelyhood that he would attack us rather than listen. Also, incase you haven't noticed, I tend to draw our enemies attacks. This may keep you guys alive longer, but with everyone being out of healing spells it doesn't loos so good for me. I think our best course of action is to stay here for the night, go into the city with Jacob to gather more information and come back here before Midnight to hunt the thing down.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 8/13 Tuesday January 19th, 2010 7:10:23 PM
Grendel looks at Bosk. "Stay back this time friend. Keep Maikill between you and the enemy. If you fall, I'll pick you up."
Going over to Valla she says, "Alright... is it just me or is this bigger than we first thought? I don't think we're dealing with a monster, I think we're dealing with an organization or a powerful wizard. My hopes are that we will be sufficiently powerful to stop whatever tool is being used to commit these murders. Chew on it a bit, I could use another intellect considering the implications of what we've been seeing."
Heading out the door she says, "Alright, let's see this thing through."
========================== I've blown my divine magic for the day, which leaves me only on arcane power. Should worse come to worse I do have a scroll with a single CLW on it if I really need.
The Shop -- DM JIM Tuesday January 19th, 2010 8:20:53 PM
ooc: I'll wait on Beri and then probably post late tonight or tomorrow morning.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:5/7 Tuesday January 19th, 2010 8:51:24 PM
Beri opens his eyes from the trance he was about to enter. He glances around the room, locking eyes with each person in turn, his face cold and emotionless for the first time since he joined the party.
I just want to make sure I am assessing the situation correctly. Right now almost none of us are at full health. We have no healing spells. We just saw a man's head blow up without us having any chance of saving him or preventing this destruction. And the plan is to try the same exact thing, only with a bigger group so we can have maximize casualties?
How about we try just a little bit harder with this whole strategy thing? We are a large group, with multiple rogues, and it is night. How about when we are all together we have one of us try to slip into his home undetected to ask questions while the rest act as decoys outside? Or how about instead of interrogating him we just invite him back with us and offer our protection services free of charge? An act of kindness towards a man who knows he is one of the next to be eater is more likely to help our cause than more threats! And how about keeping more than two people away from the door in the event of another explosion. It's a simple matter to run in and support a comrade, it's another to dodge a fiery mass of brains and skull. And we need to make sure we don't try to force ANY information from this guy, it appeared that Yosef knew what topics would get him, and us, killed. We should trust that Num knows the same.
Beri finishes his rant and rises to his feet. He walk into the kitchen and pours a glass of room temperature water then returns to the group.
Well, I'm ready to go if Bosk is. He was kind enough to watch my back during my first fight with you guys, and if he is willing to face death again tonight I'll be right there with him giving Death a run for his money!
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Tuesday January 19th, 2010 9:12:03 PM
Without emotions, Xeron listens to Beri. Then he says "Let me repeat Elf. I did not say we would threaten anybody. I say we go and speak to him. Explain to him he is next. Explain to him what happened to Yusef. MAke sure he does not say a word. Inspect the back of his head. I am at ful health. I will do that. If it kills me be it. I have nothing to live for, unlike all of you. So stay here if you must. I wil go see the merchant and watch. May be I'll get a sense how he dies. May be I get a glimpse of what kills him. May be I die. But I cannot stay here knowing that man wil most likely die. I would have done it before. But now I cannot. If this break my contract with Jacob, so be it. He will owe me nothing. But I know I cannot live with myself, knowing I could have potentially saved someone. We are all different. I am judging no one. Some of you have families, dreams, ambitions. None of this apply to me. So why not try to save someone. At least I know that Jacob is in good hands. "
The rogue face is emotionless, showing no judgement on any of the group members. He understand their concerns. He just does not think they apply to him.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells Wednesday January 20th, 2010 1:18:09 AM
The cleric shakes his head and hands the potion back to Xeron. Sorry, but I will be staying here. Jacob said we were free to do as we pleased during the day, but that he wanted our protection here at night and we all agreed to his terms in exchange for access to Hook City. We all committed to this agreement and I for one will not disgrace myself by going back on my word. It is not only dishonorable, but is bad for business. I can understand, Xeron, if as a native of Mud Town this is not how you are used to doing business. However I would expect a follower of the Flower, patron of peace, not to be charging off to look for the enemy, brain eater, organization, or unknown powerful wizard. You yourself said we are walking into danger. How are you showing your acts of servitude by walking out on an obligation you voluntarily took upon yourself. And Maikill, what would your mother say if she knew you offered to protect someone and then at the last minute abandoned them to go off at night looking for a monster. You promised Jacob you would protect him. That is part of being good, doing what you said you would do and protecting those that need protecting. Xeron, I ask you to wait one more night. Tomorrow we will have fulfilled our contract and be fully healed and have regained our spells. We may also be able to learn more about what we are facing while in Hook City. This thing is stronger than us, therefore we must be smarter and trickier than it. Surely on the streets of Mud Town you learned that. You use your advantages. For us that would be stealth, knowledge, cunning and daylight. It makes no sense to charge off in the middle of the night when half our party cannot see in the dark.
The Shop -- DM JIM Wednesday January 20th, 2010 1:31:47 AM
ooc: everyone has posted... so give me a final answer of who is going, who is staying--unless you're going to talk about it some more, which I don't have a problem with.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Wednesday January 20th, 2010 6:57:40 AM
Xeron taps the powerful Taur on the shoulder. With no emotion in his eyes he says "Bosk, you are a good man. You know what to do with my stuff after you find my brain less body."
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:5/7 d20+1=9 ; Wednesday January 20th, 2010 10:25:27 AM
Beri stands next to the Taur, willing to follow what ever choice he makes. If they seek out Num he is going to try to sense his motives to be prepared for another explosion.
Sense Motive=1
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Wednesday January 20th, 2010 10:37:14 AM
Xeron will go see Num. If others come, he will ask them to stay outside, holding his pack and his CLW potion. Then he try to talk to Num insisting that his life is in danger and he says nothing. He will mention the guy we took the shop from and Yusep, explaining what happened Yusep. After that he will ask Num the authorization to check his head and the back of it. If it looks fine he will ask Num to WRITE any information that might help solve the issue.
If Num has no information or refuse to help, Xeron will stalk the place to see if anyone enters the shop.
What rolls do I need?
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 8/13 Wednesday January 20th, 2010 10:58:55 AM "Jacob is safely under our protection in this shop with Hemust, Jillian and Sanji. I can't believe I'm agreeing with Xeron on something but he is right here, without our intervention we can be sure of another death in Mud Town this night. For evil to prosper it requires good men to do nothing. I will not, by action or inaction, allow death to stalk these streets each night."
"We've been down and out before. We've been wounded and completely spent of magic. It is our camaraderie that has seen us through time and time again. Come and see what glory awaits us this night."
Grendel is going.
Maikill HP 24/28, AC17 Wednesday January 20th, 2010 11:00:33 AM
Maikill holds his axe at the ready and steps toward the door.
"I go too."
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells d20+3=12 ; d20+4=9 ; Wednesday January 20th, 2010 1:06:59 PM
Suprised at how many of his commrades are leaving, the Taur looks over at Jacob, Hemust, Jillian and Sanji and tries to gauge thier response to the others actions. (Are Hemust, Sanji, and Jillian willing to guard Jacob, and does Jacob seem to mind?) After doing so he quickly retrives Hemust and Jillian's armor and weapons to return them to thier former owners.
The three are willing, as they have done so in the past. Jacob is already in bed, it being 10pm or so. DM Jim
Nice Hair -- DM JIM d20+4=18 ; 5d6(6+5+5+1+5)=22 d20=11 d20=15 d20=3 d20=14 Wednesday January 20th, 2010 5:49:10 PM
Deciding to split up, which not everyone agreed with, Bosk, Beri, Sanji, Hemust and Jillian stay at the shop to guard Jacob--who has already gone to sleep up in his room.
Xeron lead the rest through the deserted streets of Mudtown. Every so often a straggler would be seen running for gods know where, but in general, it was very quiet. Realizing they didn't know where Numitor lived, Xeron et al entered the Cold Comfort Inn and spoke to Lou. Slipping him a few gold, Lou took it nonchalantly--not expecting any form of bribe for information that wasn't so rare. The innkeeper remembered some of the group from a few days past when they lodged there, put two and two together and realized they were the same one's who took over Black Harris'. Even though he begrudged them the taking over of the place before the customary three days, he sensed these people meant good. Giving them the directions to Numitors, he also said on the sly in a hushed voice, to check out Num's mother's place--just a short distance behind Num's. Thanking the man, the group set out through the muddy streets, rain constantly pouring down on them from the heavens above.
It was some time before they made it to Nums; the rain, lack of lighting and trying to find the place--which looked like almost every other shanty house in the area, consumed a lot of time. Once there they saw how unremarkable it was, like most things in Mudtown. They would have missed it if not for the small business sign hanging from one of the eaves. On the front door was a small closed sign and the glass-less window was shuttered tight. There was a faint light inside as evidenced by the light barely spilling out of the cracks of the door and shutters. Standing outside in the pouring rain, the group didn't notice the dark figure hiding in plain sight. From the side of the building, the shadow cloaked figure moved toward the group--his face was covered with tentacles and even his arms were tentacles, one of which held a red glowing wand. "Your days have come to an end, now you die!" Pointing his wand at you, he utters a single word and a small ball of flame streaks towards you. The group tries to find cover, but it's too late--the flame erupts all about them, burning away flesh and muscle. Xeron screams horribly as his skin melts and Grendel screams out, "Bosk!" The minotaur awakens to find Jillian shaking him calling out his name, then gently caressing his brow. Bosk had fallen asleep for a moment and screamed out in his sleep Jillian tells him. Regaining his senses, Jill smoothes away the hair from his eyes and comments, "Nice hair."
Elsewhere, Xeron and the group eventually find Num's place thanks to a few stragglers they were able to corner. It was late and the building was unremarkble, like most in Mudtown. On the front door was a small closed sign and the glass-less window was shuttered tight. There was a faint light inside as evidenced by the light barely spilling out of the cracks of the door and shutters. Standing out in the pouring rain the group decided their next course of action.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 8/13 Wednesday January 20th, 2010 10:48:05 PM "I say we knock... Politely." Grendel offers.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:5/7 Wednesday January 20th, 2010 11:40:26 PM
Beriothian hears Jillian calling Bosk's name and runs to check on him. He pops his head into the room and sees Jillian playing with Bosk's hair.
Apparently Bosk is well on top of the situation, I should leave them be
Beri heads into the kitchen, feeling his appetite returning now that his wounds had been healed some.
Maikill HP 24/28, AC17 Wednesday January 20th, 2010 11:50:08 PM "Polite good idea, mother always tell me be polite. Even people not have much can be polite, make you better than rich person."
Maikill shrugs his shoulders
"That what she tell me anyway."
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Thursday January 21st, 2010 9:25:22 AM
Xeron will suggest that the rest of the group hides to avoid scaring the merchant. Being visited in the middle of the night makes one suspicious.
He will go and knock on the door. He will make his hands and face visible, showing that he has no weapon unsheathed. Assuming the merchant inquires who it is without opening the door, Xeron will say in an emotionless voice "Sir, I am part of a group investigating the brain-eater murders. We have come to the conclusion that you are potentially the next victim. First thing Sir please do not say an additional word. Please stay silent until I am done talking. We have reason to believe that some activities, you, Black Haris and Yusef have attracted the brain-eater. We went to visit Yepf at his boulangerie today and when we expressed our concerns, he started to talk and his head exploded, as if hit with a fireball. I believe you will be next. So in order to save you, will you be willing to share with us anything on that subject, including the business between you, Black Harris and Yusef. Do not speak. Write it down. Before that and if it is okay with you, would you let us inspect the back of your head to see if there is some evil magic at work here."
He stands back, motionless, waiting for the merchant answer.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 8/13 d20+3=20 ; d20+3=13 ; Thursday January 21st, 2010 10:11:59 AM
Grendel smiles at Maikill. "You mother sounds like the Goddess Flower. It is good that you heed her instructions."
Grendel is fine doing it Xeron's way for now and steps off a bit. 30-40' back from where Xeron is at the door and leaned up against one of the nearby buildings. She keeps an eye out for any movement around or within the house.
=================== Spot: 20 Listen: 13
Numitor's -- DM JIM Thursday January 21st, 2010 11:49:04 AM
Xeron knocks, but there is no answer. If there was someone inside they would have surely heard it. The shanty is about 10' x 15', small but better than a tent. Typically there is another window around back and a leaky roof.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Thursday January 21st, 2010 12:12:06 PM
Xeron goes around the shanty, hitting the walls and the windows saying out loud "You are in danger Sir, we need to talk to you ..... or you will end up like Yusep and Black Harris. "
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells d20+4=24 ; d20+3=21 ; Thursday January 21st, 2010 12:18:21 PM
The taur wakes up, his heart still pounding from the slaughter he wittnessed. Thank God it was only a dream. As the adrenalin wears off he becomes aware of Jill playing with his hair and relaxes a bit more. I hadn't realized my hair had gotten so long. I should probably take care of it before it causes an issue in battle. Bosk shifts slightly to get more comfortable and hears the familar jostle of his armor just as Beriothian walks in. Wait a second, something is not right. How did I get on the floor, and why am I still in my armor? One doesn't just fall asleep while standing in heavy armor. Panic begins to return as he remembers Padre telling him about Gargul giving him dreams and visions on street corners, was ot really just two days ago? Beri! the blond cleric calls out as he bolts upright. Come back! Something is wrong, and I believe the others are in trouble. The last thing I remember I was praying for the others saftey and the next moment I had a vision of the others being attacked. I know what you must be thinking, but this wasn't a dream. Since my father's death I have only ever had one dream, the same dream every night... the taur quickly shakes his head and redirects the topic back to his current dream. I'm getting off topic. The point is that this was not a normal dream, it was a warning. Please come with me, I know where they are. Jillian, thank you. Please watch Jacob until we get back, and don't open the door for any reason.
Bosk will go out looling for the others, going to the location shown in the dream. I hate to leave Jacob, but only a fool ignores Gargul. Besides, an oath is invoking the help of God and it is he who is calling me to do other wise. As he goes, he travels as fast as he can without becoming fatigued, full prepared and expecting to find a battle, his senses peaked to the point that almost nothing escapes his notice and reassuring him that Gargul is watching over him.
Spot =24 Nat 20!!! Listen = 21
Numitor's -- DM JIM Thursday January 21st, 2010 1:05:37 PM
There is no answer.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 d20+8=24 ; d20+8=23 ; d20+8=20 ; Thursday January 21st, 2010 1:15:39 PM
Xeron goes back to the group. "There is no answer. If it is okay with you, I will try to open the lock. "
If the group agrees, Xeron will a) search for trap, b) disable any, c) open the lock (or try to) while saying loudly "[b]Sir Numitor, I hope you are okay. I am trying to enter your house to make sure you are safe.[/]"
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 8/13 Thursday January 21st, 2010 2:01:02 PM
Grendel nods to Xeron. "Act quickly, we're right behind you in case there is trouble. If we see the beast, we engage... no falling back from this point forward."
Numitor's -- DM JIM Thursday January 21st, 2010 2:31:04 PM
Xeron works diligently at the door and discovers there is indeed a crude trap on the door, or more precisely, one above the door. Seeing through the cracks in the badly hung door, and using his special tools, Xeron discerns that there is a bucket poised above the inside of the door--the faint smell of raw lamp oil present in the air. Thinking about it a moment, he runs through it in his mind and determines that if the door is opened, whoever opened it would be doused with lamp oil. Then of course a flame source would be introduced, burning the intruder and the house down together.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:1/12 d20+4=23 ; d20+5=6 ; d20+4=16 ; Thursday January 21st, 2010 2:34:25 PM
OOC: I assume its not completely pitch black outside, otherwise Xeron would have a really really hard time with the door locks...
Valla does nod, and agree with Grendel; Before the group ever leaves the shop Yes, I think its not a monster. I think a wizard or sorcerer is our suspect here... A monster isn't smart enough of capable of doing the things this thing has done.... ---------------------------------- ---------------------------------- Valla will, of course, follow Xeron to Num's house. Upon arriving, he keeps his eyes peeled. He stands at least five yards (15-20 feet) behind Xeron, looking at the front of Num's house. I"ll only enter or come near once the door is open; I have a bad feeling about this Xeron... He's not answering for a reason. He possibly cannot talk at all. He could he a hostage right now, or he may not be here. But I think he's here... Valla seems very distressed.... Bosk isn't here. This isn't good. Bosk should be here.
Keeping his eyes peeled for any danger or sneaks, Valla trys to find a nice place to stand out of site. Behind some rubble or debris, corner of another "Shack", anything that may hide the elf from instant view.
Spot: 6 Listen: 23 Hide: 16 Cast: Message to Bosk
OOC to DM: The tower is a good idea I think; although Mud Town/ Hook City is still up in the air. I was thinking of something along the lines of a shop/living quarters. Possibly a "School" of sorts even. Thats why I had Valla say something about it being inside Hook City Proper. Another goal of Vallas would be to find his father or at least why he ran away from the barbarian attack, so long ago.
I edited your post because neither Beri or Bosk is there, and Message requires a line of sight to the person(s) you are attempting to speak to. -- DM Jim
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells Thursday January 21st, 2010 3:31:16 PM
Running through the darkness, Bosk groans as the ever present mud grips at his legs and binds his feet to the ground almost as if it was trying slows his progress. Pushing on he tries his best to remember Lou's directions and to recognize familiar landmarks, yet too him everything seems to look the same. Nothing in this God forsaken town stands out against the droll backdrop of mud town. How am I supposed to find my way in a place like his?
Turning a corner the taur finds himself lost and unsure where to go. Puzzled, he slows his pace momentarily. Where am I? What if it was only a dream? I'll give it a few more seconds, if I don't gain my bearings I'll head back. Looking around, he feels a curious sense of deja vu and continues on.
Replaying the dream over and over in his head he continues on, the dark image of a long tentacle curled around a wand burned into his memory and the echoing of Xeron's screams as his flesh melted away still ringing in his ears and then the deafening silence. The one thing he did knew was that if this was only a dream, it would be one that would haunt him for as long as he lived.
Every few minutes the mighty cleric thinks to himself, I only hope that I'm not too late, but as his journey continues he becomes less sure of himself and he begins to doubt the validity of his dream. With every wrong turn or unfamiliar area his inclination to turn around and return to the shop grows. Deep down he knows if he does not find the the house he will have to turn back, but for the moment he continues on.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 d20+8=27 ; Thursday January 21st, 2010 3:40:01 PM
Xeron goes back to the group and explains the trap which he was not able to disable, regardless of his effort. "It is quite obvious that Numitor is either absent or already dead. Regarding opening the door, I am open to any idea on how to avoid the place being torched. I was thinking that I could stand/sit on the shoulder of Maikil and catch the bucket before it falls. Another idea would be for me to check the window and go through them. Or we could use a weakness in the roof to make a small opening. "
As the group ponders their options, he goes check the window for any traps.
Search: 1d20 + 8 = 27
Numitor's -- DM JIM Thursday January 21st, 2010 3:57:05 PM
Xeron finds no traps on the window, but it is double barred. The only way to open it would be to bust through it and busting through a wall would probably be just as difficult.
Maikill HP 24/28, AC17 Thursday January 21st, 2010 4:00:07 PM
Maikill listens to Xeron and a concerned look comes over his face.
"You want to sit my shoulders, catch bucket of oil that is on other side of door. No possible, door between you and oil. I no want to burn up with you on me. No get away quick with you on me. Bad idea."
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 8/13 Thursday January 21st, 2010 4:02:53 PM
Grendel listens and nods. "It's a shame Berothian wasn't here to give that trap a go..." Looking at the house she says, "Check for a back door. If there is none, Maikill should take his greataxe to the wooden wall. Can't be that hard to bust open."
Maikill HP 24/28, AC17 d20+8=25 ; d12+5=12 ; d20+8=19 ; d20+8=19 ; d12+5=15 ; d12+5=16 ; Thursday January 21st, 2010 5:01:57 PM
Maikill will wait a brief moment, and if there is no back door he will then try to cut through a wall as far away from the door and bucket of oil as possible.
"Okay, I break open wall. Stand back."
1st swing hit AC 25 Damage 12
if needed: 2nd swing Hit AC 19 Damage 15 3rd swing Hit AC 19 Damage 16
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 d20+8=20 ; Thursday January 21st, 2010 5:14:46 PM
Xeron looks at Maikill " I told you you were smart! " He jokely punches the half-orc and the pain in his hand remind in how strongthe barbarian is.
Right before Maikill is about to hit the wall, Xeron says "May be you just have to make a small hole and I can sneak in "
If DM allows, use escape artist skill (1d20 + 8 = 20) to limit the number of hit which could make the oil falls.
Numitor's -- DM JIM d6=6 ; Thursday January 21st, 2010 6:09:00 PM
With Maikill's first hit, he breeches the wall, but the bucket filled with oil that was poised above the front door, falls and with it a nearby lit oil lamp tied to the bucket with some string. In an instant the shanty is ablaze. Xeron yells out from the blast of heat from the interior explosion, moving away from the hole that Maikill made.
Down the street, Bosk and Beri hear Xeron's cry and can only think they've all been killed just as he had seen in his vision. Smoke and flame lit the sky as Numitor's hut burned.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 8/13 Thursday January 21st, 2010 6:57:12 PM
Grendel just shakes her head. "Crap. That's not what we needed." If there is even a 30 second window of time where we can run in before the whole shop goes up in Grendel's opinion, then she'll make a bolt for the entrance Maikill made in the wall. If not, then she'll just keep an eye to see if anything or anyone emerges from the flaming wreck.
Sorry, no time to go inside unless you want to take damage, 1d6 per round. DM Jim
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:5/7 d20+7=14 ; Thursday January 21st, 2010 8:28:42 PM
Beriothian hears Bosk shouting to. Upon returning to the main room of the shop Bosk has already vanished through the front door.
Jillian, Bosk ran off without me, which direction do I need to go?
In a flash Beri is out the door running in toward Numitor's. For a few moments he wonders how he will know if he accidentally runs past the building. Suddenly he sees flames in the distance and he has little doubt that this is where he will find his party.
I see they must have gone with the shoot first, ask questions later approach. I hope they are all right, and that they succeeded before the explosion.
As Beri runs he will keep an eye out for anything (such as a water trough he can quickly soak his cloak in so he can possible enter the building safely for a couple seconds, use to put out flames on a comrade, ect.)
seach =d20+7=14 ; None in sight. DM Jim
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells Thursday January 21st, 2010 9:07:14 PM
ooc: I had meant my conversation to be with Beri, not with Lilly.
Bosk's heart sinks as the flames climb over head. Praying that it isn't too late, he looks behind him for Beri before charging towards the flaming building.
Don't let it be too late...
Numitor's -- DM JIM Friday January 22nd, 2010 2:27:05 AM
Luckily for Mudtown it rained often. Numitor's blaze would be limited to his hut and no others as it continued to burn the little hut to the ground. No one came out, nor did any cries for help ring out, and there had been time for such to happen if someone had been conscious inside the hut.
Running as fast as he could and with Beri closing quickly on his heels, Bosk rounds the corner to find the rest of the group standing across the street watching a hut burn to the ground. In the bright light of the blaze, the Taur could see no one was hurt, just getting more wet. Beri arrived right after him and also took in the surreal scene.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 d20+7=12 ; Friday January 22nd, 2010 9:31:14 AM
Xeron looks at the blazing shanty. As matter of fact as possible he says "Well, no one alive got caught in this fire. May be Num was gone running an errand. I think that the rest of you should go back protecting Jacob. I will do a stakeout here. I will hide and observe to see if Num comes back and if the brain-eater shows up. "
He find a spot in the darkness where he can seethe burning hut yet not be seen.
Hide: 1d20 + 7 = 12 (unless DM allows a take 20)
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 8/13 Friday January 22nd, 2010 9:44:53 AM
Grendel nods. "Back to the shop." and gives Xeron a wave as he finds a nice spot to stake-out the house before turning and heading back.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:5/7 d20+7=20 ; Friday January 22nd, 2010 10:26:20 AM
Beri runs as fast as he can towards the party. Is everyone ok? Anyone injured? What happened?!
Not seeing anyone a corpse with an exploded head Beri looks around for Numitor. spot=20
ooc: Beri can't comment on this since he is just arriving and didn't see the trap. A bucket above the door typically means you didn't leave through the door. While it's possible he climbed out the window on a rainy night to run an errand before we got here it's probably wise to check the one back window in the back for any signs of Numitor. Considering the location we should check below the window for footprints, or the window being open to make a silent escape from his escape.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells d20+4=23 ; Friday January 22nd, 2010 10:43:19 AM
Still wary from his dream, Bosk lowers hos hand down to the handle of his morning star as he listens to the others story.
That trap doesn't make any sense. What would the purpose be? It will not protect you or your stuff, it is too slow to gaurentee it will kill a tresspasser, and it os a risky way to destroy evidence. The only reason I can think to use the fire is as a signal to someone...I think we just walked into a trap. Be ready...
spot d20+4=23
Maikill HP 24/28, AC17 d20+5=23 ; d20+4=13 ; Friday January 22nd, 2010 11:33:48 AM
The fire blazes quickly and Maikill steps back from the flames.
"Sorry, I hit too hard."
he looks around a bit perplexed until Grendel mentions going back to the shop.
"Okay, we go back."
then Bosk and Beri run up.
"Trap?"
Bosk moves away from the group towards the most likely place an ambush may come from. He holds his axe ready and searches for an enemy.
listen 23 spot 13
Numitor's -- DM JIM Friday January 22nd, 2010 12:05:26 PM
The group talks about what to do, Grendel easily dismisses any further investigation until Bosk and Beri show up and start asking about. Talk of a trap and ambushes litter the conversation, but the latter never occurs. Grendel is walking away; Xeron is looking for a place to hide; and Maikill is looking for an ambush. From the groups current position, in front of the burning hut, no one spots anything unusual or life threatening.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells Friday January 22nd, 2010 12:20:43 PM
Not finding the creature, Bosk suggests the group head back. We better return to the shop. I don't see anything, and there is no sense in waiting around. Besides, we should be protecting Jacob.
Numitor's -- DM JIM Friday January 22nd, 2010 12:28:53 PM
ooc: guys, if you say you make a spot, listen or search roll and don't say what area you're looking around in, then it's considered whatever is in the immediate area. That does not mean back of buildings when you're standing out front--basically anything you have a line of sight too.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:5/7 d20+9=20 ; d20+7=17 ; d20+7=17 ; Friday January 22nd, 2010 12:42:08 PM
Beri starts walking around towards the back to look around
Bosk, you have night vision. Can you back me up and help me check the back?
Search=20 spot=17 listen-17
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:5/7 Friday January 22nd, 2010 12:42:49 PM
ooc: I am searching for the things I mentioned in my earlier post.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Friday January 22nd, 2010 12:49:39 PM
Xeron will search for a place to hide where he will have good view of the burning shack.
OOC: What roll do I need for that?
Hide. Dm Jim
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells d20+4=22 ; d20+4=12 ; d20+3=18 ; d20+3=4 ; Friday January 22nd, 2010 1:16:35 PM
Turning to leave the image of the tentacled creature flashes once again through Bosk's mind and he recalls the details of his dream even more vividly thean before. Immediately he turns to the spot where the creature had been in his dream and scans the area, readying to attack if he spots an enemy or hears someone outside of the group preparing to cast a spell. If nothing is found he will go with Beri and check beind the building.
Spot d20+4=22 Area from Dream Listen d20+3=18
Spot d20+4=12 Behind the Building Listen d20+3=4
Ready Action Attack
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 d20+7=26 ; Friday January 22nd, 2010 1:33:46 PM
Hide roll: 1d20 + 7 = 26. Is this good enough?
Numitor's -- DM JIM Friday January 22nd, 2010 7:28:55 PM
Grendel continues to walk away as Bosk and Beri search the area around the house and around back. Bosk's darkvision will not help him with the bright light coming from the bonfire that was once Numitor's hut, but the bright light does illuminate the pools of water that have collected in the muddy footsteps of someone walking from the back window of the house, to one of the nearby shanty huts, much like Numitors. There are three likely candidates of where the tracks lead, since neither Bosk or Beri having any formal tracking skills. There are lights on in all three, and of those in the surrounding area--probably all having awakened after hearing and seeing the blaze set off in Num's hut.
Xeron makes himself comfortable in the shadows of a sloping eave, ready to spring at a moments notice.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:1/12 Friday January 22nd, 2010 8:42:04 PM
Valla simply sat and watched the hut burn, thoughts of what may have been inside swirling through his brain... What a waste... I think much could have been in that hut...
Staying silent, he starts to wonder around back, finding Bosk and Beri at work already Valla looks at the three lit huts. I suggest we sneak away from here, That way we don't look as though this was our doing. We need to at least look around those huts He points toward them; then shaking his head
Surly we can't go back to the shop now, split up; two of us at each hut. Wheres Xeron? We have a lead and somewhat of a chase on our hands now.
He stops briefly, the appears surprised. Thats it! who ever made Yusef's head explode set that trap... We follow those tracks, I say we find our brain eater...
He stamps his staff into the ground half-walking toward the middle hut.
Valla beams at Bosk; Surly your not going to let this thing get away from us?
Maikill HP 24/28, AC17 d20+5=8 ; d20+4=24 ; Friday January 22nd, 2010 11:13:31 PM
Maikill walks over to where Valla is and looks down into the mud. It is clear even to him that someone has recently walked through the mud from the back of the burning shed.
"Grendel, come back. We follow track. I burn down someone house, need to pay to build again. No take someone house and run away. I pay myself."
Maikill will do his best to follow the tracks, saying softly.
"I sorry, I buy new house for you. Where are you?"
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells Friday January 22nd, 2010 11:25:41 PM
Bosk replies to Valla, What makes you so sure the footprints are not also part of a trap? Although the tone of his voice makes it impossible to determine how he meant the comment, his eyes indicate he is at least half jokeing.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:5/7 d20+7=15 ; d3=2 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+7=8 ; Saturday January 23rd, 2010 12:09:20 AM
Beri glances over his shoulder towards Valla I'm not so sure it's the same person. Why would someone who can make a gigantic fireball inside somebodies skull resort to using a candle and lamp oil? That said, I wouldn't be surprised if that's who Numitor is running from. He looks back toward Bosk Since when does a trap make a difference, it's not like our group is much for strategy. Beri gives Bosk a wink and nods his head towards Xeron letting both of them know he is up to something. He is going to walk out of view of the windows, then sneak to the doors to listen for people talking, movement, or anything else. His logic is that anyone inside is obviously awake and has to know about the fire, so if only one house is silent (or doing something out of the ordinary) odds are that is the location he ran to. He wonders if any other rogues will follow him.
listen house 1= d20+7=15 listen house 2= d20+7=10 listen house 3= d20+7=8
ooc:do I need to roll to hide if I am walking out of view of the windows? It shouldn't be hard if like Numitor's there are no side windows. Also, I am assuming I will need 3 listen rolls, one for each house. ignore the d3, that was an accident.
Only if you don't want to be spotted. Move silent rolls might be advantageous too, unless you're trying to make muddy slurping noises as you walk. DM Jim
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:5/7 d20+8=11 ; d20+8=12 ; d20+8=27 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+8=27 ; d20+8=12 ; Saturday January 23rd, 2010 12:43:37 AM
stealth and move silent rolls:
house 1 hide=d20+8=11 move silent=d20+8=12
house 2 hide=d20+8=27 move silent=d20+8=25
house 3 hide=d20+8=27 move silent=d20+8=12
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Saturday January 23rd, 2010 8:52:56 AM
Xeron sees Beri's nods and nods back. He stays hidden, watching Beri and is ready to intervene when needed. He unsheathes his weapon to be ready to strike.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells Saturday January 23rd, 2010 11:20:06 AM
Bosk nods to Valla and then towards Beri, indicating that he likes Beri's plan and will go with the wizard after the rogue has done his thing.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:1/12 d20+4=11 ; d20+5=14 ; Saturday January 23rd, 2010 1:07:27 PM Finally... Valla thinks to himself as Beri does his sneaking, and Bosk conforms to his plan.
Good point Beri has though... Maybe Numitor set the trap. Maybe he knows or thinks, he could be next.
Valla moves to go around to the side of the huts. Trying to watch Beri, while keeping his eyes everywhere, making sure the rogue isn't going to be ambushed or surprised.
Spot: 11 Listen: 14
The Search -- DM JIM d3=1 ; d20=18 ; d20=18 ; Saturday January 23rd, 2010 2:36:42 PM
Agreeing to Beri's plan, the elf carries it out methodically as he skulks around to the front of the first likely candidate. Whether it was fate or pure luck, Beri heard a very interesting conversation spoken in near whispers:
The concerned voice of a woman says in a restrained voice, "There is more than one, you said that there was only one that was after you." "I said I wasn't sure," a man said back in a whispered voice. "What are you going to do, where are we to go?" "Listen woman, I don't know, if I did, we would be gone from here." Silence... "What are we going to do now?" The woman's voice sounded resigned to her pitiful fate, "I'm sorry Arriet, I should have never involved you in this, I've placed you and the kids in danger." "Did you hear that?" Silence.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:5/7 Saturday January 23rd, 2010 5:58:20 PM
Beriothian carefully to the conversation in the first house... The luck of Wardd is with me today, it appears we found Numitor on our first attempt. Beriothian signals to the party that this is the house they are looking for and continues gathering information as the people inside talk with on another. Who is this Arriet? We must find out more about her.... us oh, did they hear me? Beriothian silently pulls out his rapier, a movement he knows those in his party will see and understand. He considers running, but under the circumstances he thinks he is best staying silent and staying hidden.
Maikill HP 24/28, AC17 d20+4=14 ; d20+5=18 ; d20+1=13 ; Sunday January 24th, 2010 12:27:48 AM
Maikill stops when he sees that Beri has found something he considers dangerous. Holding his axe at the ready, Maikill will try and move back behind the building.
listen 18 spot 14 move silently 13
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:1/12 Sunday January 24th, 2010 3:47:01 PM
While peering at Beri, Valla notices his kin unsheath his weapon. Looks like he's figured out something.
Valla looks to Bosk and Grendel; I suggest we see what Beri is worried about? Without waiting for a response, a smile appears on Valla's face, this is it...
He makes his way to the front of the hut; about ten feet from the 'building'. Not worried about being seen or not. Should I just knock? Lets see what Bosk and Grendel think about this. Interrogation and Information Gathering arn't my cup of tea...
With that he waves to the Taur and Half-orc. Hurry up! he mouths to his companions.
Likely Candidate -- DM JIM Monday January 25th, 2010 2:51:32 AM
The group, those that are willing, gather about the front of the hut Beri has chosen. What now?
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 8/13 d20+4=12 ; Monday January 25th, 2010 9:15:41 AM
Grendel moves up to the front of the hut with the others. A part of her REALLY wants to get back to the shop, but she reminds herself that Jacob is in good hands with Sanji, Hemust and Jillian. As she approaches she mouths the words, "Spread out" and motions with her hands.
Standing about 10' from the door of the hut Berothian selected she clears her throat loudly. "We are a group of protectors tasked with ending the Brain Eater Murders. Unless you are the murderer, you have nothing to fear from us. Come out slowly and I give you my word as a priestess of Flower, no harm will come to you."
================== Diplomacy: 12
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Monday January 25th, 2010 9:37:58 AM
Xeron does not know what Beri hears. But he sees the rogue pull out his sword. "He must have found the brain eater. Let's get ready to fight!
The rogue is ready to jump and kill, not knowing that it is poor Numitor that Beri found.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- OOC: May be we want NOT to scare the guy or his wife and kids?
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Monday January 25th, 2010 9:39:38 AM
OOC: Somehow Grendel post did not show up when I was posting ================================================================= Xeron hears Grendel and relaxes. He has misunderstood Beri action. He comes out of the shadows as he resheathes his weapon.
Maikill HP 24/28, AC17 Monday January 25th, 2010 10:50:37 AM
Maikill had headed around towards the back of the hut, if that is possible (see previous post for rolls on move silently, etc)
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells Monday January 25th, 2010 11:53:58 AM
Once again, Bosk finds himself feeling that he is neglecting his duty to Jacob. It is only by remembering the vision of his friends calling out in agony that can bring himself to stay by the burning building. Bosk positions himself slightly away from the rest of the group so that he will appear less threatening and the party is less at risk of having everyone taken out at once by a single head exploding attack, but he makes sure to stay close enough that he can charge in to attack if necessary.
Numitors -- DM JIM d20+2=17 ; Monday January 25th, 2010 1:13:59 PM
For a moment there is silence, then a woman answers from the other side of the door, "There's no brain-eaters here, so be on your way."
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Monday January 25th, 2010 1:43:25 PM
After Beri updates him on what he heard, Xeron decides to talk, hoping to say the right things "Mom, we have eveidences that makes us believe that Numitor will be the brain-eater next victim. We are his only chance. All we want is to talk to him. If you know him and care about him, let us talk to him. You can see from the window we mean you no harm."
He moves in front of the window, arms open and Surprise!, even put a smile on his usually emotionless face.
Sorry, there is no window. Also, in cases of diplomacy, please make a roll. DM Jim
Numitors -- DM JIM Monday January 25th, 2010 1:48:59 PM "Window? I've no window!"
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 8/13 d20+4=6 ; d20+4=24 ; Monday January 25th, 2010 2:07:58 PM
Grendel nods at Xeron as he attempts to calm their fears. Finally, we're starting to work together on this."Maam, my clothes are still scorched from our attempt to save Yosef. He exploded in a ball of fire and nearly killed us all. Numitor could be similarly in danger. Please let us try and help. I'm coming in now... unarmed. If you want to hit a defenseless priestess of Flower, then the god's will deal with you."
Grendel stows her javelin and shield and approaches the door with her palms open. The jewel hanging from her holy symbol shines for a moment, reflecting some distant light.
============================== Diplomacy: 6 Once a week re-roll using the charm: 24 (Nat.20!)
Numitors -- DM JIM Monday January 25th, 2010 2:39:01 PM
Grendel goes to open the door and finds it locked. Inside she can hear footsteps approaching the door, then a voice very close to the door--she can imagine the man who is speaking has his forehead rested against the door, his eyes closed, his plea filled with concern, "Please do not hurt the woman or children, please." The door is unlocked and opened as the man inside steps back and away from it. The interior is sparsely furnished, the man stands near the back of the 10x15 shanty hut, a woman he is shielding stands behind him. Up in the small loft area, two pair of childrens eyes gaze down from their bed at the group.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 8/13 Monday January 25th, 2010 2:58:39 PM
Grendel offer her hand to the man with a warm smile. "You have nothing to fear from me. I'll ask for two of my friends to come in as well, the rest will protect us from outside your home." She pokes her head outside and calls for Valla and Xeron to help her inside the house.
"Please do not speak sir. Yosef had a spell triggered when he attempted to speak your name and the explosion nearly killed us all. I'm going to check for a similar enchantment on you. The elf, Valla will help with this task, while our friend Xeron will check your home for anything... dangerous. Please have a seat and consider your dealings for the last few days. You know something important and I believe your life is in danger because of it."
Grendel casts detect magic, examines Numitor then looks around the rest of the house to see if there is any magical auras present. If she finds one she will focus on it to determine it's nature and level of power.
================== Cast Detect Magic.
Numitors -- DM JIM Monday January 25th, 2010 3:07:03 PM
As Grendel casts, the man says, "I am not Numitor, he is who you're looking for, right? I am Yosef, and I carry no enchantments or maladies upon me." Grendel's cursory scan proves this to be true.
Grendel (Jay) AC:17/10/17 HP 8/13 Monday January 25th, 2010 3:19:49 PM "Wait... YOSEF?!" Grendel exclaims, honestly surprised.
Does this man appear to be the same as the baker we approached that exploded?
Grendel will definitely pay close attention to her detect magic spell now. Auras?
=============== Nice plot twist Jim. =)
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 d20+8=24 ; d20+8=11 ; d20+8=19 ; d20+8=17 ; Monday January 25th, 2010 3:38:18 PM
Xeron enters the house, arms open and palms visible as a sign of peace. He starts looking inside the house, asking for authorization before opening any draw of closing. He is not sure what he is looking for, just something different suspicious.
Search: 1d20 + 8 = 24, 11, 19, 17 (not sure how many needed).
When the man identifies himself as Yosef and Grendel confirms he is not lying, Xeron looks at the man suspiciously. "Sir, who was the man at your shop? What dealing do you have with Black Harris and Numitor? Do you know where Numitor is? "
================================================== OOC: Great twist DM. Did not see it coming.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:1/12 d20+1=8 ; d20+1=13 ; Monday January 25th, 2010 4:52:02 PM
Once Grendel and Xeron are inside, Valla looks to Beri, Bosk and Maikill; This is getting odd; the man is Yosef.. Keep you eyes peeled; I suspect danger...
He walks inside; eyes locked on Yosef. Once inside, Valla stands just to the left of the door, he looks around the tiny hut, and upon seeing nothing worht mention right away, he helps Grendel and Xeron with questioning.
Both Xerons questions are very important, as are these. The hut thats burning down now; did you set the trap that caused the fire? We were told that was Numitors house; is this true? Do you know anything at all about a puzzle box? Or perhaps a valuable gem of sorts?
As the elf talks a small flicker of light shows through his robes; his charm being used for the first time this week.
Valla looks at Yosef with a questioning look' This is very odd... Who was the "Yosef" double? A Doppleganger???
Diplomacy: {8}13 w/ charm reroll. ======================================================= OOC: Really nice twist Jim! This is gettin good!
Yosef's -- DM JIM Monday January 25th, 2010 4:57:17 PM
"It may draw too much attention if your men stand outside. There is not much room in here, but perhaps it would be wiser if everyone came inside." Yosef motioned for those present to sit where they could, and said to the woman, "Arriet, some tea please." Nodding, she politely made her way through the group and put a kettle on the small floor firepit to bring to a boil.
-------- This man is black and bears no resemblance to the man you thought was Yosef.
Yosef's -- DM JIM Monday January 25th, 2010 5:09:22 PM
Sitting down, "Please, one at a time, I'll answer your questions, just give me some time to answer you."
---- Please restate your questions and I'll answer them as they come.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:5/7 d20+1=8 ; Monday January 25th, 2010 7:30:52 PM
Beri, who has been listening to the whole conversation makes a quick judgement call as to whether the man can be trusted, and if he has no reason to distrust the man he will enter.
Sense Motive = d20+1=8
ooc: didn't see that twist coming.
Seems sincere to Beri. DM Jim
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 16 of 20 Spells d20+4=12 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+3=18 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+3=10 ; d20+3=18 ; d20+3=12 ; d20+3=14 ; Monday January 25th, 2010 8:01:30 PM
As the group moves inside the small hut, Bosk looks and listens one last time to make sure that the group is not in any danger before proceeding. Upon entering the building the cleric stretches to his full nine and half foot height, acting like he is trying to stretch his back as he tries to get a good view of whoever may be hiding in the loft. Then, out of habit, he makes a quick survey of the room and chooses a spot leaning against the middle of the longer wall subconsciously deciding that it would have the greatest tactical advantage. Listening carefully as each question is asked of Yosef, Bosk does his best to sense his motive and to detect any misdirection of treachery.
====================== Spot Outside d20+4=12 Spot Inside d20+4=15 Listen Outside d20+4=18 Listen Inside d20+4=22 Sense motive d20+4=22,10,18,12,14 (I didn't know if you wanted separate rolls for each question)
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