DM Zach -- Surprise/ Round 1 d20+14=18 ; d20+14=22 ; d4+2=6 ; d4+1=3 ; d3=3 ; Monday January 9th, 2012 2:28:50 PM
In the Victory Inn right before midnight all of the Champions of Bryn Baraz are in asleep in their beds. Various dreams are in each of your minds are your drift into and out of REM sleep.
Zeph dreams someone is in his room and he can't wake up. He wakes with a sudden start as agonizing pain stabs into the lower right side of his back. Zeph attempts to scream but now words come out. A second, almost gentle puncture is made into Zeph's neck with a second blade.
Zeph: Only Highlight to display spoiler: {First I need a Fortitude Save: DC 20 or take 3 points of Con Damage. You need two saves to stop the effects. 1 Save negates the effects for that round. It is obviously a poison.
Second, a spell storing on the weapon goes off. Will Save DC 13 or Paralyzed as per the Hold Person spell.
Third, and by far the most serious, the assassins hit with his Death Attack after studying you for a few rounds. You need to make a Fortitude Save, DC 18 or die. Remember you can use the Cheat Death action with Hero Points if it gets really bad.
Finally, the Assassin's Underhanded and Sneak Blade abilities cause 40 points of sneak attack damage on top of the 9 damage from the daggers. The second dagger is placed in the first round of combat, so assuming you are not dead, or paralyzed, you may act this round.
I know this seems harsh, but this guy was made just for you. =)}
Dibs and Sjurd here a gasp and the silence coming from Zeph's room. It is enough to wake you up but you hear nothing else coming from his room.
Tara wakes up and shakes Garrett. "Garrett, I heard something... it came from Zeph's room."
Keela may act this round if you pass a DC 12 Perception check.
OOC: FYI, purchases and selling needs to go through the catacombs.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] d20+18=27 ; d20+20=31 ; d20+18=20 ; Monday January 9th, 2012 3:07:10 PM
Garret jumps awake at the combined sound of Tara and the noise in Zeph's room (perception: 27). As he moves towards the door, he touches the tattoo that runs up his neck and it flashes briefly (cast barkskin). He then moves out into the hallway, being as quiet as he can (Stealth: 31) looking towards Zeph's room (perception: 20, if needed).
Keela d20+2=22 ; d20=2 ; Monday January 9th, 2012 5:28:11 PM
Keela wakes with a start [Perception 22], but is completely unprepared for whatever happens next.
[You didn't specify what kind of save, but with a raw roll of 2, I don't suppose it matters. :) ]
DM Zach: My fault, I meant make a Perception Check. You may act this round.
Keela (additional) Monday January 9th, 2012 10:43:00 PM
Hearing the noise, Keela scrambles out of bed, grabs her staff, and heads for the door. She bursts into the hallway in her night-dress, long hair tumbling past her shoulders.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] d20+15=23 ; Monday January 9th, 2012 11:14:27 PM
Hearing the gasp from Zeph's room, Sjurd breathes deeply, extends his hands out to his sides, then breathes out and brings his hands together in a clap. If anyone else were in the room, they would see him shimmer and disappear (use polymorph SA to become Small air elemental as elemental body I). The bedding is flung aside and the door to Sjurd's room opens. A soft whirring of air breezes through the corridor towards Zeph's room and stops when he sees Garret. He whispers softly to the halfling, "Did you hear something as well?"
Stealth check 23
====================== TEMPORARY EFFECTS 88 temporary hit points Elemental body I - +2 size bonus to Dexterity and a +2 natural armor bonus. You also gain fly 60 feet (perfect), darkvision 60 feet, and the ability to create a whirlwind.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Tuesday January 10th, 2012 11:51:20 AM
Garret tries to remain hidden as he whispers to the air, "There, from Zeph's room."
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Tuesday January 10th, 2012 11:58:45 AM
"Then ve should check on him."
Waiting to post more actions until DM update.
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; d20+14=20 ; Tuesday January 10th, 2012 1:33:47 PM Dibs bowed to the audience when he was done singing, but their applause was cut short by the oddest of sounds; it was if the Gods themselves collectively sighed.
Suddenly Dibs was awake and on his feet. He looked left and right, but his room was empty. Yet, he was sure he had heard something and he suspected that the noise came from Zeph's room.
Dibs moved towards Zeph's door as he continued to listen for any sign of trouble, but all was quiet... perhaps too quiet.
"Zeph, sorry to wake you but I just wanted to see if everything was okay." Dibs said from outside his door.
Actions: Perception 20
DM Zach -- Holding Pattern Tuesday January 10th, 2012 5:58:18 PM OOC: Holding and waiting on a post from Addison. Normally I would just continue combat, but I'm not going to roll a save (or three) for a character when one of them might kill him.
Zeph Illidian HP 52/79 AC 19/18t/12ff CMD 21 Tuesday January 10th, 2012 9:21:35 PM
Sorry guys, post coming soon... I am immune to Snake and Spider-based poisons though. =)
Zeph Illidian HP 30/79 AC 19/18t/12ff CMD 21 (-3Con) d20+12=19 ; d20+11=29 ; d20+8=17 ; d20+12=25 ; d6=2 ; d20+17=29 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2012 12:17:05 AM
(Fort Save vs Poison DC of 20: 19, unless its Scorpion, Snake, or Spider based poisons, to which I am immune. Will save = 29, success, not held Fort save vs death = 17, using hero point to boost +2 to make it 19, thus barely surviving. Use hero trait to regain Hero point = 2, fail Second Fort save vs Poison = 25, success)
Zeph slumbers soundly in his bed...
Then pain engulfs his world, "Aarrrrrrgggghhh!" Everyone hears this The elf shrieks in surprise and anguish as the cold poisons infuse his body, causing him to convulse.
He barely holds onto life as he rolls off the bed in the opposite direction of the pointysticks, kicking his feet wildly to avoid any AOO (Acrobatics = 29, success)
He falls to the ground, his blood splattering to the floor. It is everything he can muster to cast a spell aimed at the other side of the bed: GlitterDust DC 17 will save or be blinded. Gold dust explodes from a point, covering the room.
(OOC: Hey Sjurd, do you think instead of upgrading my belt to Dex+6 for 18k we could do a Belt of Physical Might +4 for Dex/Con for 20K? I just realized how important a fortitude save can be... The belt started as +2dex, so I subtract 2k for the upgrade right?)
DM Zach -- Pressing the Attack d20=19 ; d20+13=30 ; d20+14=25 ; d8+5=8 ; 5d8=23 ; d4+2=4 ; d4+1=4 ; d20+14=29 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2012 12:37:32 AM
The Assassin is able to power through Zeph's spell (19 on the die.) The assassin feints as he jumps across the bed and slices into Zeph twice doing minimal damage. When the second dagger finds its home Zeph feels and uncomfortable "pulling" sensation" on his insides or being. The assassin is wearing black loose fitting garb, that covers his entire body except for his face, and hands. Over his hands are dark leather gloves. He wears a leather mask over his face and dark goggles over his eyes. He stands nearly 6ft tall and is noticeably thin.
OOC: Just realized that I am not certain if you can use Greater Feint as part of a move action. If not, negate the sneak attack damage.
Outside the rest of the party his a struggle taking place inside. Feel free to join the fray, with one person spending a standard action to open the door, or kick the door in as a free action as part of a DC 15 Str check.
Zeph: the Assassin does 8 points of Piercing Damage and 23 Sneak Attack damage, assuming I can feint as part of a move action. Also, the poison is Deathblade which I believe is a herbal poison.
Zeph Illidian HP 30/79 AC 19/18t/12ff CMD 21 (-3Con) Wednesday January 11th, 2012 1:36:30 AM
(OOC: Well, a Feint is a Move action, and moving towards me any more than 5feet is also a Move action. So you can't do both. The real question is whether jumping over a bed to attack me is moving more than 5feet. For that matter, its also a full round action to attack with two weapons, right? Also the DC for Feinting me is 10+10sense motive = 20, but it looks like you succeeded.)
Zeph Illidian HP 22/79 AC 19/18t/12ff CMD 21 (-3Con) d20+16=25 ; d20+10=20 ; 5d6=20 ; 4d6=10 ; d20+15=19 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2012 2:17:41 AM
The Assassin jumps over the bed and stabs Zeph in the chest again, sending spurts of blood to the ceiling.
Zeph gasps for breath as the blade's sharp edges bite into him. Before the Assassin can remove the blade, Zeph grasps his wrist and begins chanting a spell (Concentration to avoid AOO = 19, success).
Zeph ducks low (Feint = 25), a burst of electricity erupts from his palm and he thrusts it at the man's throat (Feint worked = flat footed AC. Spell = touch AC. So I gotta hit 10 absent rings of Protection, right? HIT Touch/FF AC 20 for 20electricity and 10sneak attack for 30damage)
Zeph grabs his adversary's windpipe and grits his teeth as he sends jolts through the man, saying, "By the gods, I shall not fall!" through spitting blood.
Then Zeph notices the Glitterdust spell coated both the room and the Assassin with the shiny metallic flakes and he smiles, whispering, "Despite my fate, yours is sealed as surely all that glitters is not gold."
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Wednesday January 11th, 2012 5:18:54 AM ooc: Can someone else kick the door? I don't want to waste my opportunity to cast a spell this round.
DM Zach -- Pressing the Attack Wednesday January 11th, 2012 7:19:51 AM
Zeph: Dont forget save against poison each round. Roll 1d3 for con damage.
Keela Wednesday January 11th, 2012 10:25:02 AM
Relieved to see her friends in the hallway with her, Keela flings open the door to Zeph's room, then stands back. The wizard should never be the first one through the door, she thinks.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] d20+18=24 ; d20+12=22 ; d8=2 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2012 1:07:12 PM
Garret will dive through the door and roll to his feet, ready for whatever greets him. When he sees the glitter and the man in black on Zeph, he quickly moves up to the man, ready to attack.
OOC: (I'm guessing a move action to get in, then determine what's going on, so no attack this around? Ready an action to attack the black-garbed man if he should disengage and run, stunning fist to stun, not kill: hit ac 22 Dam: 2, Fort save DC 20 or stunned one round.)
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] d20+15=30 ; d100=35 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2012 4:08:46 PM
Sjurd focuses for a moment, gathering the energy of the Wold around him (Bend Ley Line check 30, +6 bonus, Ley Line check 41). The air surrounding his hands becomes turbulent and shimmers as he quickly intones a spell toward the assassin. "Deg der! Jeg befaler deg til a bli en skilpadde!"
ooc: Cast baleful polymorph. DC 21 Fortitude or turn into a turtle. Sjurd will use Tugging Strands to force a reroll if the assassin successfully saves.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Wednesday January 11th, 2012 4:09:32 PM
ooc: Zeph - It's your call. Sjurd can auto-success either of those items with Spellcraft.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Wednesday January 11th, 2012 4:13:46 PM
ooc: Zeph - Yes, subtract an additional 2k for the +4/+4 rather than the +6 item.
Sorry for the brief post. :)
DM Zach -- Pressing the Attack d20+3=5 ; d20+3=8 ; d20+3=8 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2012 9:03:11 PM Zeph is able to do quite a bit of damage to his attacker.
Garrett is able to stun the attacker.
Sjurd steps in and turns the Assassin into a turtle.
Zeph needs to make a Fort Save for last round, this round, and three more rounds vs. the poison.
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; d8+1=2 ; d8+1=3 ; d8+1=3 ; d8+1=7 ; d8+1=6 ; d8+1=7 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2012 9:44:08 PM
Dibs entered the room and saw a turtle and and injured Zeph.
"Ohhhh... " he exclaimed as he started casting healing one Zeph.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] d20+19=35 ; d20+11=21 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2012 11:55:54 PM
Sjurd surveys Zeph lying in bed and gasping for breath. "Hmm... our naughty assassin used poison, did he? It appears to be a paralytic. Hold still a moment." The blood witch reaches in the air towards the elf, grasps a handful of air, and pulls away. The poison in Zeph's body seems to be drawn with it, leaving him weakened, if alive. (cast neutralize poison)
Craft (alchemy) check 35 to identify poison Knowledge (nature) check 21 to identify poison
Sjurd then walks over and gingerly picks up the erstwhile assassin. "Und you, my little friend, vill be our guest of distinction for the near future." He opens a pouch at his waist and gently drops the turtle inside. "He vill be safe here until I dispel the curse. In the meantime, ve must prepare some sort of velcome. I have just the thing in mind. Ah, yes. Just the thing. Ve must also heal Zeph. I vill begin casting divinatory spells in the morning to try to find any information I can. Perhaps the rest of you could perform a physical search this evening?" With that, he leaves the room, patting his turtle pouch on the way.
ooc: Sjurd's permanent mind blank ability also applies to his equipment, so no one should be able to scry or use divination spells on the assassin while he is still in his belt pouch.
Zeph Illidian HP 12/79 AC 19/18t/12ff CMD 21 (-5Con) d20+12=18 ; d20+12=25 ; d20+12=19 ; d3=2 ; d3=3 ; d3=3 ; Thursday January 12th, 2012 3:26:02 AM
The battle ends quite abruptly as the Assassin he has a strangle hold on first goes stiff, and then goes Tortoise
Zeph chuckles, Cowabunga... before falling to the ground, unconscious (Fail 2 Fort Saves for -5Con! Ohhh noooooh dropping me by 3con x 8levels = 24 hp, thus at -2!!! )
A dream.... not an image. But an emotion. Happiness? Why does this feel familiar... and .... comfortable?
Gasp Dibs is healing his wounds and Sjurd is pulling something from his body into the air.
Sweat drips from his brow and he struggles to speak as his eyes dart around wildly... then blacks out again....
Keela Thursday January 12th, 2012 10:10:39 AM
Keela hesitates, uncertain, in the doorway. It seems the battle is over, and there is only healing and interrogation to be done. Both of which she is terrible at.
"Oh, poor Zeph," she says. "Should I go fetch someone?"
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] d20+18=36 ; Thursday January 12th, 2012 12:03:55 PM
Garret watches in amazement as the assassin turns into a turtle and grins when Sjurd picks it up and drops it into a bag. He says, "Sjurd, that is not right."
When Keela asks, Garret replies, "I'm not sure who in town might be able to help. You can call for Tara, she may be able to aid us here some."
Garret quickly looks around the room to ensure there's not another assassin waiting in the shadows (perception: 36).
DM Zach -- Clean up Thursday January 12th, 2012 1:45:28 PM
In the brief few moments the Zeph is unconscious and close to death before his friends save and revive him, he feels his soul being pulled from his body. For a few seconds he is out of his body before Dibs healing washes over his body, pulling his soul back into his body.
Dibs is able to keep Zeph from dying as Sjurd keeps the poison from completely ravaging Zeph's system. Zeph is now conscious, but very, very week
Keela runs and gets Tara at Garrett's urge. She comes in with a small leather pouch she keeps with her at all times. She begins applying bandages and poultices to Zeph's wounds. A very deep puncture that penetrated his kidney. An incision in the neck that barely missed his jugular. A nick at the arm pit obviously going for the the artery there, missing, and a puncture near the heart doing no major damage either. It' is obvious the Assassin knew where to hit.
Sjurd is able to quickly tell the poison is that of the Deathblade. A rather nasty poison at that.
The Assassins items are on the floor and include: A well bound leather book that looks extremely old. 1 dagger 1 ornate dagger with large gem attached 1 cloak 2 potions 1 chain shirt
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; d20+14=29 ; d20+11=17 ; Thursday January 12th, 2012 5:27:56 PM
"Any chance any of you are a better healer than I?" Dibs said. "Serious wounds like these are well beyond my healing skills."
Dibs looked over all of the entry points to the room to try to determine how the assassin got in.
Keela Thursday January 12th, 2012 8:09:15 PM
Keela hastily twists her hair into a loose braid to keep it out of her face. Then, looking at the assassin's gear, she casts Detect Magic.
"I have no skill for healing," she says, concentrating on her spell. "But I can see whether any of these have a magical aura."
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] d20+21=39 ; d6=6 ; Thursday January 12th, 2012 9:16:20 PM
Sjurd will follow the protocol detailed below in interrogating the assassin. If any spellcasting fails, he will cast again. (Baleful polymorph and bestow curse are permanent, and the turtle isn't going anywhere, so I assume he can just keep trying until successful)
1. Cast bestow curse six times. (Please note I leave Intelligence alone)
Combined, this would entail a -7 penalty to his Fortitude and Will saves, and -3 hit points per HD.
2. Go to the village sheriff and request two sets of manacles. (I'm assuming someone has a pair, if not him)
3. Take the turtle outside to the cellar.
3. Cast hold person.
4. Cast remove curse on the baleful polymorph.
5. Shackle the assassin firmly to a chair or the wall and undress him to his skivvies before the spell wears off. Re-cast the spell if we need more time.
6. Interrogation begins. I'm assuming other players would like to join in the fun in asking questions. For an Intimidate check, the DC is equal to 10 + the target's Hit Dice + the target's Wisdom modifier (including the penalty from bestow curse.)
Intimidate check 39, treats me as friendly for 60 minutes.
"Vhat is your name?" "Vhat is your mission?" "Vere you sent alone?" "Who is your employer?" "Vhere is your employer located?" "Who is your contact und how vere you to communicate vith them?"
DM Zach -- Clean up Thursday January 12th, 2012 9:31:53 PM
The turtle dies from loss of hit points.
OOC: I am not doing this to be a arse. He was 9th level, with a con of 8. He had 50 hit points. Zeph hit him for 30, Garrett for 2, and the -6 Con dropped him to 27 for a total of 59 lost. This left him at -9. He died at -8hp.
Keela: The all of the items listed aside from the two potions show up as magical. His hood, boots, gloves and robes were non magical.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Thursday January 12th, 2012 10:27:43 PM
ooc: My bad. I should have specified healing him prior to cursing the daylights out of him. I will cast a few divination spells tomorrow.
Zeph Illidian HP 12/79 AC 19/18t/12ff CMD 21 (-5Con) d20+9=26 ; d20+9=28 ; d20+9=29 ; d20+9=14 ; Friday January 13th, 2012 12:21:18 AM
Zeph awakens to see Tara tending to his grievous wounds, he smiles and says, "Thank you."
When hearing of the uneventful killing of the turtle assassin, Zeph's jaw drops......
He says, "Oh well, at least now we don't have to decide on what to do with him. I certainly hope there is some marking on his clothing that is recognizable."
Speaking of which, Zeph would like to view the assassin's gear from his bed, searching for any reason why he would be the target of an assassination attempt.... what did I do? Zeph thinks.
(Knowledge History = 26, Knowledge Local = 28, Knowledge Nobility = 29, or any other knowledge that may apply 14)
(OOC: One of the things I love about Pathfinder is that they kept all the little items from 3.5 that may one day save your life when you least expect it. Here is a short list of things that could be crafted with Sjurd's help for the entire group's benefit, just gotta cut the prices in half:
Scarab, Golembane (A golem would ruin us right about now I think)- 2500gp Chime of Opening - 3000 Bottle of Air (you never know when they may try to drown us) - 7250gp Helm of Underwater Action - 22000 Rope of Climbing - 3000gp Circlet of Blasting, minor (for fun really)- 6000 Eversmoking Bottle (quick getaways) - 5000gp Hat of DIsguise - 1800gp STone Salve - 4000 Decanter of Endless Water - 9000 Immovable Rod (think of all the uses, door jam, climbing tool, fishing pole, zone indicator) - 3000gp Maybe Keela would be interested in AMulet of Magecraft or The Amulet of Spell CUnning? My personal favorite prank: Sovereign Glue Opinions?)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Friday January 13th, 2012 12:17:05 PM
Garret looks at the dead turtle and says, "Sjurd? You killed a turtle. Was that really necessary?" He tries to hide a smile, but fails.
To Zeph he says, "What did you do? This guy could have come after any of us, but he was clearly after you. And with that poison? You must have really angered someone, as that does not look like it was an inexpensive job. Someone paid a lot of gold to get you dead."
1. Bend Ley Line concentration check 35 2. Ley line total check 89 3. Cast divination 4. Question: "Will another assassin come within the next week?" 5. Success roll 63, Sjurd receives a correct divination.
1. Bend Ley Line concentration check 26 2. Ley line check 11 3. Cast contact other plane, target is Greater Deity (Wardd) 4. Use Bit of Luck to roll twice for Intelligence check, highest result 16 5. Questions: (1) "What is the identity of that assassin?", (2) "Who was the assassin's employer?", (3) "Where can the employer be found?", (4) "Why was Zeph their target?" 7. GM ROLL REQUIRED: True Answer 01-88, Don't Know 89-90, Lie 91-99, Random Answer 100
Keela d20+17=18 ; d20+17=26 ; d20+17=31 ; d20+17=21 ; d20+17=26 ; Friday January 13th, 2012 3:21:10 PM
Keela continues to concentrate on her spell, and attempts to identify the properties of each item.
[OOC: Since I had to look it up anyway, here is the information on identifying magic items using Spellcraft.]
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; Friday January 13th, 2012 4:45:03 PM
Suddenly Dibs broke into song... Dead turtles Dead turtles Dead turtles aren't much fun
They don't come when you call They don't chase rabbits at all Dead turtles aren't much fun
This turtle died from a curse spell No he's in amphibian hell Dead turtles aren't much fun, no no no Mom says turtle's days are through She's going to throw him in the stew Dead turtles aren't much fun
Come on everybody out there, sing along ok?
Dead dead dead dead turtles... Dead dead dead dead turtles... Dead dead dead dead turtles aren't much fun
And he bowed.
DM Zach -- Clean up d4=4 ; Friday January 13th, 2012 8:05:57 PM
While he is unconscious, Tara pours a cool green liquid down Zeph's throat. It appears to lessen the effects of the poison significantly, leaving only a trace of the weakness in his body. She smiles in relief seeing Zeph is out of danger. At least for the time being.
Garrett and Dibs both seem to be relieved the assassin is dead, making jokes and songs about the "turtle's" passing.
Keela and Zeph spend some time looking over the assassins equipment.
The book is very unique and stumps Keela as to what it actually is. However, when Zeph looks through it he finds some peculiar information.
The book is well bound and magically protected. A vast majority of the pages are empty, though the pages are through out are well turned. There is only about a half of a page written in the book.
It is written in Elven and reads: New Information for Deactivated Mark: Zeph Illidian Location Update: Bryn Baraz Known Associates: Zorra Illidian (Deceased), Keela Plainfield, Garrett Goodbarrel, Koko Dogtooth, Description: Brief Description of Zeph Additional Information: Mark previously thought eliminated when Zorra eliminated. Resurfaced as "Champion of Bryn Baraz" Status: Reactivated
-P
Second entry in different handwriting. Destination reached. Mark found. Resides in newly built Victory Inn. Mark will be eliminated by Sunrise.
-Varros
The writing in the book is in Dark Red and looks very similar to blood.
The first dagger is a +1 Dagger of Spell Storing
The cloak is a Cloak of Elvenkind +5
The chain shirt is a +2 Mithril Chainshirt
The dagger is something different. It is well crafted with a sharp blade (masterwork). It is unmagical though the Gem that attaches to it has a Major Necromatic Aura. You are uncertain what the "Gem" actually is or does.
I am not answering Sjurd's questions yet as he said he was asking them on the following day and time has not advanced yet. I'll answer them when the time advances unless you want them done tonight.
The cool green potion "fixes" 4 of Zeph's 5 Con damage.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Friday January 13th, 2012 8:19:13 PM
ooc: I'm fine with getting the answers tonight. No sense in waiting the whole weekend.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Friday January 13th, 2012 8:20:24 PM
OOC: WAIT! I see what you meant. When I said I would cast them tomorrow, I meant it was late for me and I would post the castings the next morning. Presumably Sjurd would cast the divinations immediately since he killed the poor turtle with his very first spell.
DM Zach -- Clean up Friday January 13th, 2012 8:41:16 PM
The divination responds with the answer. "That depends on your actions. Inaction will say yes."
For Contact Another plane the first answer is: Varros, second: Keepers third: Below fourth: Multiple
Keela Sunday January 15th, 2012 4:54:06 PM
Keela shares her findings of the magic items with the group.
"The book is worrisome," she says. "Has somebody been spying on us?"
Zeph Illidian HP 12/79 AC 19/18t/12ff CMD 21 (-5Con) Sunday January 15th, 2012 6:44:19 PM
Zeph reads the book... he is quiet, Rage flushes his face red.
"Zorra was my mother..."
After a breathing exercise, Zeph aligns his mind to the task at hand.
He looks to Sjurd, "Below? Could that mean subterranean? Keepers? Need more information on who they are. It was written in Elven..."
Then, he thinks of his friends... "I am marked, you are in danger if you are associated with me. Keela, I do not want to put your family at risk. I must find who is responsible, but I cannot ask you to accompany me."
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Monday January 16th, 2012 9:45:16 AM
Sjurd will find a local silversmith and request that the turtle's shell be fashioned into a small keepsake chest; a wooden hinge, velvet lining, and the name 'Varros' written in a flourish on the top.
He will also snip off one of the claws and cast remove curse, presumably turning it into a humanoid finger. "This vill allow me to assume his form if it is necessary to disguise myself as him."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Monday January 16th, 2012 1:11:19 PM
Garret looks at Sjurd and mumbles to himself, "That Sjurd is an odd one, isn't he?"
When Zeph mentions dangers, Garret stands as tall as he can and says, "Zeph, I was with you when we came to this land, and I will not leave your side now. If someone has marked you, they have marked me as well. They shall not again get so easy a shot at Zeph, for they shall have to get through Garret Goodbarrel first."
He continues, "I guess the word 'keepers' has no special meaning to you. Dibs, you ever heard of such a group?"
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; d20+6=9 ; Monday January 16th, 2012 5:01:48 PM
"Sorry Garett" Dibs said. "Though I perform like a bard I wasn't gifted with their knowledge. I'm not exactly sure who the Keepers are. But I mean to find out."
Turning to Zeph- "I'm going with you. An attack on you is an attack on all of us. Plus we can't have assassins thinking they can go around doing whatever they want in our town." Dibs put his hand in a fist, punched into the air and finished with- "DIBS McKoy will have NONE OF THAT!"
He paused for a moment for dramatic effect and then said softly. "So when do we leave?"
DM Zach -- Clean up Monday January 16th, 2012 5:25:48 PM
Before Zeph and Keela close the book to look for more clues, more writing begins appearing below the last entry, as if someone is writing in the book as you look on. It doesn't say much but the handwriting is the same as who wrote the first entry.
Status Report.
-P
Where the previous writings were a dry rusty maroonish color, this is a wet, dark red.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Tuesday January 17th, 2012 11:58:35 AM
Garret continues, not noticing the writing, "Well, I doubt anyone in this town is going to know who the 'Keepers' are. I wonder if we should head off to a larger city to try and get more information about this group."
Keela Tuesday January 17th, 2012 12:51:51 PM
Keela replies to Zeph, "If my family is in danger, then my best course of action is to help you find these people and deal with them. They already know I'm an associate of yours. Although they didn't get my name right, so they can't be all-powerful."
Her eyes widen as the demand for a status report blooms on the page. Immediately, a whole series of responses ping through her head.
Write that the mission is accomplished and try to find out more about who sent the assassin?
Write that the mission failed, and hope to get more information that way?
Write "Dear Diary" in a looping feminine hand, followed by vapid observations, just to mess with this mysterious "P"?
"What should we do?" she asks.
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; Tuesday January 17th, 2012 5:46:33 PM
Dibs considered the message carefully.
"We could write- Zeph's dead baby... Zeph's dead, and then ask where should we meet. But I wouldn't be surprised if they've got some sort of code, so our response might set them off."
"What if we wrote something like unforseen problem... we need to meet right away. If we get a message back that refers to a usual spot or something, than we respond with something like- that won't do. Place isn't safe. Let's meet at blah blah blah instead."
"What do you think?"
DM Zach -- Clean up Tuesday January 17th, 2012 10:09:31 PM OOC: I am going to wait on a few more posts or at least some one to make a decision on what to do or not do.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Tuesday January 17th, 2012 11:22:55 PM
"My divinations have not revealed all that I vould have vished. It appears that our invisible foes are indeed cloaked in secrecy und shadow to avoid our gaze. I do not know of these 'Keepers,' but I know that Vardd has told me that ve vill see more assassins if we do not act vithin seven days." Sjurd scratches at his mask where a man might keep a goatee. "Perhaps a great library vould have the answer?"
Keela Wednesday January 18th, 2012 12:21:28 PM
"I like Dibs' 'unforeseen problem' idea," Keela says. "It's possible we could learn more. Anyway, it's worth a try."
Zeph Illidian HP 12/79 AC 19/18t/12ff CMD 21 (-5Con) d20+9=28 ; Wednesday January 18th, 2012 6:20:03 PM
Zeph seems to calm down as his friends suggest solutions to the conundrum, he nods his head, "I briefly considered writing, 'Mark killed me, and he's coming for you.' .... but that would reduce our surprise advantage. Yes, lets lie."
And then Zeph takes a knife and pricks Varros' disembodied finger, dips a quill into his blood, and in an elven handwriting very similar to Varros's, (Linguistics = 28), Zeph writes, Mark deceased I may have been spotted Location compromised Meet three miles north of Bryn Baraz for extraction
Then Zeph looks to his friends, "If they chose to meet, then either I or Sjurd can disguise as Varros while you guys wait in Avis above..."
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] d20+16=25 ; d20+16=19 ; d20+16=33 ; d20+16=33 ; Wednesday January 18th, 2012 10:52:57 PM
Sjurd summons the strands of fate to aid him (use Bit of Luck) and takes another look at the magical items, examining the book (Spellcraft 25) and the gem on the pommel of the dagger (Spellcraft 33).
He considers Zeph's plan and nods in satisfaction. "Ve must be careful. It takes some fine vits to out-fox the fox, as they say. Perhaps they vill use scrying to discern if he has been successful? It may be prudent for one of us to disguise ourselves as the dearly departed Varros und travel away from Bryn Baraz to discourage snooping."
DM Zach -- Clean up d20+15=31 ; Thursday January 19th, 2012 12:05:57 AM "Ah, very clever. Using Varros' blood. I almost didn't notice the subtle difference in your styles of writing. That and Varros would have never suggested a rendezvous. So tell me, is Varros dead? How about Zeph? I'll assume he still lives since Varros has obviously been caught. Is this Zeph, or am I speaking to one of his associates."
The words in the book are a flesh blood red and appear just moments after Zeph's response.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Thursday January 19th, 2012 10:41:26 AM
Garret peeks over Zeph's shoulder and says, "Well, that sure didn't work. If we let them think that Zeph is dead, they may just go away and leave us alone. Then again, we won't have any idea where they are if we do that. I'm thinking we should let them think him dead and then we try and follow a cold trail. I'd rather be hunting than the hunted."
Keela Thursday January 19th, 2012 12:13:49 PM
"Why not leave it ambiguous?" Keela asks. "Write something like Why don't you come find out? I don't think they can afford to leave it up in the air; they'll need to send somebody."
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Thursday January 19th, 2012 11:20:16 PM
Sjurd shrugs. "I'm not a very good liar. Write vhat you think best."
Zeph Illidian HP 12/79 AC 19/18t/12ff CMD 21 (-5Con) Friday January 20th, 2012 11:27:06 AM
Zeph shakes his head, "He knows I live and knows we can lie. He's going to send more assassins either way.... I would."
Then Zeph pricks his own finger and writes back with ire, "This is your target. Varros was an insult, send better (or worse). If you don't, I'm coming for you."
Then Zeph pauses a moment and writes out of curiosity, "So, is unprovoked murder your forte? Or is the destruction of an innocent family just fun for you?"
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Friday January 20th, 2012 1:08:21 PM
Garret watches Zeph prick his own finger and says to Sjurd, "You don't suppose that by using his own blood that it will give this mysterious being some extra power over Zeph, do you?"
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Friday January 20th, 2012 1:48:46 PM
Sjurd cocks his head to one side. "If this person is powerful enough to ensorcel through a divinatory medium, then it is also likely so powerful that ve could never hope to defeat it. Blood magic typically requires a very personal connection, hence Varros' finger currently in my belt pouch."
ooc: Just a reminder, Sjurd can see any scrying sensors automatically with his true seeing.
DM Zach -- Clean up Friday January 20th, 2012 4:09:46 PM
The words take a few seconds before they appear this time.
"Innocence and ignorance, it all goes hand in hand. There are two sides to every story. Maybe one day you will hear the other side. I have some pressing matters to attend, but I'm sure we'll meet soon."
No scrying is detected by Sjurd
OOC: We will have two new players joining the ranks soon. Ben and I will get them worked in next week. Ben will be running the for the next few weeks as I start spring semester up this coming week and its seems like a good time to switch out.
Zeph Illidian HP 12/79 AC 19/18t/12ff CMD 21 (-5Con) Friday January 20th, 2012 4:58:00 PM
Zeph scowls and writes back quickly, Indeed, very soon.
Then he scrapes some of the blood handwriting from "P"'s script and places it in a vial.
He then begins to concentrate on a prayer to Jancassis, wondering if the material could be used in Nemesis Insight or possibly Nemesis Scrying As your servant, I ask for your guidance.
Keela Sunday January 22nd, 2012 7:09:44 PM
"Oh, dear," Keela says softly, but it looks as if the challenge has been issued.
Since getting back to sleep is all but impossible at this point, Keela returns to her room to prepare her spells for the day.
Today's Spells 0 Acid Splash 0 Light 0 Mage Hand 0 Prestidigitation 1 Color Spray 1 Feather Fall 1 Magic Missile 1 Protection from Evil 1 Ray of Enfeeblement 1 Unseen Servant 2 Acid Arrow 2 Extended Mage Armor 2 Rope Trick 2 Scorching Ray 2 Web 3 Dispel Magic 3 Fireball 3 Haste 4 Invisibility, Greater 4 Wall of Ice 4 Dimension Door
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] d20+18=22 ; Monday January 23rd, 2012 1:29:51 PM
Garret looks at Zeph as he prays to his god. He steps towards the door and looks out into the hallway, just to be sure there is no one else around, nor listening in to what is happening (Perceoption: 22). He mumbles, "I do not like all this magic going on. It does not feel right."
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; Monday January 23rd, 2012 2:54:39 PM
Dibs yawned and decided to turn in for the night before adding- "Should we post a watch?"
DM Zach -- Clean up Monday January 23rd, 2012 3:54:29 PM OOC: Hi all. Ben is taking over the DM posting for the next few weeks. WE are going to be introducing our new players in the next few days as well. Oh, and Addison, Zeph can use the blood to designate "P" as his nemisis.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Monday January 23rd, 2012 11:59:45 PM
Sjurd speaks up. "A vatch vould not hurt. If anything, ve should sleep in a common room to prevent being singled out by future assassins."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Tuesday January 24th, 2012 12:20:35 PM
Garret replies, "My guess is this was a one shot guy. I think we're safe until this P fellow decides to hire another assassin for Zeph."
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Tuesday January 24th, 2012 7:49:41 PM
ooc: We have no idea who these guys are and my best divination spells pretty much gave us zilch. I'm up for any suggestions on where to go from here.
Keela Tuesday January 24th, 2012 10:37:36 PM
Spells prepared, Keela re-joins the discussion.
"How did he get in, anyway?" she asks. "Zeph, was your door locked?"
DM Zach -- Clean up Tuesday January 24th, 2012 10:38:47 PM OOC: Hey all, Ben got stuck at work for an extended period of time (extra 24 hours or so... he's in the military.) and asked me to post.
The group makes it through the night, which after everything else was said and done, was rather uneventful.
After hearing about he rough night you had, a nice late brunch is set up for the group. The have almost every breakfast and lunch food imaginable... well, imaginable for a silver mining community.
OOC: Ben says he will post a substantial post tomorrow.
Zeph Illidian HP 95/95 AC 19/18t/12ff CMD 21 d20+16=20 ; d20+9=22 ; d20+9=12 ; d20+9=23 ; Wednesday January 25th, 2012 1:30:33 AM
Zeph looks at Keela wistfully and wonders if he could be so absent minded.
He inspects the door lock to see if it was picked by Varros, the untimely turtle assassin (Disable Device = 20)
In the morning, Zeph eats heartily and bounces ideas off Keela wilst sipping juice, "Could we contact Katarina, we need to find out who the "Keeper's" are. A large library such as the Star Mage's guild must have something on the group."
Zeph will find a library and begin searching in all texts
(Knowledge History = 20, Knowledge Nobility = 22, Knowledge Local = 12 Knowledge Geography = 23)
Later on, Zeph asks Ulfgar, "How goes the operations of the mine? Could we look at the security patrol together?
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Wednesday January 25th, 2012 2:46:16 PM
Garret nods at Zeph's questions and replies, "I'm not sure Katarina is so thrilled with us these days, but I'm not sure. I do think we need to get to a large city where we might find more information. I'm afraid our time of relaxation here is at an end."
CONSIGLIERE BEN Wednesday January 25th, 2012 9:11:05 PM
As the Uncharted Heroes feel a new sense of calm start to permeate the party. A little egg, a little bread, a little pork, and a crisp morning go a long way toward easing the "near death" tension.
Dibs appears unphased by the event, and reaches the brunch refreshed.
Garret and Keela seem curious about reconstructing the "what" and "how" of the event, trying to decipher the infiltration, entry, attack plan, and execution of the assassin.
Sjurd and Zeph pursue the "why" and "who" components in an effort to seek vengeance, retaliation, and turtle soup.
As the party catches glints of golden morning sunlight off the mithral statues, they hear a scream behind them. Turning toward the bridge on the North edge of town, Senna is seen kneeling over what looks to be a body. A glimpse around Keela's sister shows petite, broken, blistered, bloodied feet.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Wednesday January 25th, 2012 10:14:27 PM "Zeph, vhat poisons did you vish philtered in the meantime?"
ooc: I have the following available. Prices are on my character sheet in the Equipment List.
Zeph Illidian HP 95/95 AC 19/18t/12ff CMD 21 d20+9=15 ; Thursday January 26th, 2012 2:14:50 AM
Zeph thinks about the gruesomeness of the application of Poisons in a battle...
It would be irresponsible to not use every resource when lives are at stake.
He smiles at Sjurd and says, "I will invest in 5 of each of the poisons we can craft Bandages of Rapid recovery? The road may be long." (Aid Action Craft Alchemy = 15)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] d20+18=22 ; Thursday January 26th, 2012 12:16:19 PM
At the sound of the scream, Garret runs towards the bridge, scanning the area as he runs (perception: 22 I like rolling dice). He tries to get Senna away and get her to turn away from the body and attempts to comfort her as he watches around to see what's going on.
Keela Thursday January 26th, 2012 1:47:11 PM
"SENNA!" Keela picks up her skirts and runs for her sister as fast as she can, heedless of any other dangers that might be around.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] d20+16=33 ; d20+19=31 ; d20+19=35 ; Thursday January 26th, 2012 11:59:19 PM One week later...
Spellcraft check 33. Bandages of rapid recovery produced in eight hours.
The weighted average of the Fortitude saves for the doses of poison is 15.36. Craft (alchemy) check of 33 with Aid Another.
33(14.26)=499.1 499.1/7=71.3 per day(6 days)=427.8
Sjurd produces one Bandages of Rapid Recovery, 3 doses of belladonna, 5 doses of blue whinnis, 5 doses of malyass root paste, and 2 doses of striped toadstool. Total cost is 511.15 gold pieces.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Friday January 27th, 2012 12:00:00 AM
ooc: Sorry, the weighted average is actually 14.26. My calculations are correct, but the explanation is not.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Friday January 27th, 2012 12:38:46 PM
Garret continues to hold Senna and tries to guide her away from the body, hoping Keela might recognize it...
CONSIGLIERE BEN Friday January 27th, 2012 10:10:41 PM Keela barely recognizes the face of the battered and exhausted woman. It was a friend of her sister that got married months ago, but was looking to settle. The woman appears to have been beaten, and worse, with some strange teeth marks visible through some slits and gaps in her mangled clothing. Something awful has happened, but what? She is barely breathing, as though the bridge of Bryn Baraz was her only (or final) goal in life.
Garret escorts Senna into the new fortress for comfort and situational elopement. While distraught, she appears unhurt.
Senna turns to Garret, "Did you see her feet? She must have been running for so long..."
Sjurd and Zeph had just finished their plans before the brunch, and have a clear plan. However, coming to grips with legality, lethality, and morality proves more difficult for one than the other.
Should Zeph and the other heroes trust the moral compass of a brooding, brewing witch...?
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Saturday January 28th, 2012 12:51:24 AM
ooc:
Shot opens to show a farm. Cattle and sheep are lowing in the background. Sjurd stands in front of a barn, one foot and one arm resting on a post fence as he stares into the setting sun. He looks to the camera. "Hello, I am Sjurd. I vanted to take the opportunity to quell some rumors regarding me. Some have questioned vhether I can be trusted - vhether my 'moral compass', so to speak, can be relied upon. This, my friends is a subject of great importance. I vould like to express to you that my moral compass can, in fact, be trusted. You can trust that I vill poison, transmute, stab, strangle, or murder anyone who threatens the livelihood or good health of the party und people of Bryn Baraz. After all, I consider myself a peacemaker - und nothing is quite so peaceful as a dead troublemaker. I am Sjurd, und I approve this message." Shot fades to black.
Keela Sunday January 29th, 2012 1:11:02 PM
Keela looks helplessly at the woman's battered face. She knows magic, and history, and a lot of other academic stuff, but she doesn't know much about first aid.
"Just be still," she tells the woman. "Help is on the way." More loudly, she calls, "We need a healer! Dibs? Sjurd? Tara?"
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] d20+15=17 ; d20+15=19 ; d100=93 ; d100=61 ; d8=2 ; d8=3 ; Sunday January 29th, 2012 9:08:53 PM
One of the townsfolk races to the inn and interrupts Sjurd and Zeph's discussion on the finer points of malevolent herbology. The blood witch makes his way to the scene and casts several healing spells.
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; d20+20=25 ; d20+20=24 ; Wednesday February 1st, 2012 11:21:00 AM
Dibs tried to comfort the battered woman, while Sjurd cast healing spells.
"It's okay... you're safe now. Rest... rest..." Dibs urged as he studied the woman's wounds in effort to get a sense of what had happened to her.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Wednesday February 1st, 2012 12:26:21 PM
Garret replies to Serena, trying to keep her focus away from the beaten woman, "Yes, yes. Tell me, who is that? What happened?"
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Thursday February 2nd, 2012 12:27:13 PM
"Snap out of it! Speak to me!"
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; Thursday February 2nd, 2012 1:03:47 PM
...
DM Zach -- Clean up Thursday February 2nd, 2012 9:27:46 PM
Sorry, Wold being done has us off of schedule. Post coming soon, I promise.
CONSIGLIERE BEN Friday February 3rd, 2012 6:38:58 AM Sjurd imparts conjuration magic to the battered woman on the ground. Her swollen and misshapen face takes form of a cute young woman. The blisters and cuts on her feet shrink and smooth, and the bite marks on her hands, neck and legs shrink to pinpoints and vanish.
Garret encourages the young woman to speak, and finds himself screaming into her face at point blank.
It takes a long time for her to open her eyes, like days pass, until she speaks.
...wa... water...
Matronly Keela carries the broken woman to the tavern, where a small and exclusive crowd assembles to hear the story.
The mayor, the heroes, and a few others (possibly adventurers) all strain to hear the woman now identifiable as Suzy Scamper. She recently married a promising and professional prospector named Robert Scamper, and they went to establish a subsidiary mine for the region.
The conversation breaks down as does Suzy, but bacon and fruit juice and waffles from the brunch seem as sorely needed as the healing magic. Over the rest of the day, all listeners struggle to understand the sequence of events. After Suzy succumbs to exhaustion the posse cobbles together the following story (they think)...
---------------
While prospecting, some frontier settlers stumbled onto a long-abandoned boomtown. Golden Glen was the name on the rickety sign, but no life was found within. A few brothels, saloons, a general store, and a ghostly expanse of dust were all the settlers found. The town name seemed perfect, because in the dust the flecks of sunlight shone on motes of gold. The very earth was permeated by gold dust, and a mine seemed only logical. As the settlers went to make camp, they investigated for any obvious abandonment evidence. Why would any boomtown go empty with gold pouring out of the earth?
No signs were found in any of the buildings. Every hall and every room and every stable were undisturbed. No signs of struggle or violence were found. While perplexing, the sight of gold dust calms many nerves, and the pioneers made camp. The next morning a few of the men went to the mine, and found it collapsed, but with many signs of recent activity. Shortly thereafter they were set upon by extremely well equipped bandits, and had no chance to escape. Arrow, blade and blood filled the sky before the first settler could scream for help. It was no fight, just clean-up duty.
The bandits strode calmly to the town, and stealthily mowed down all the men, while herding the women and livestock. Magic and misery were thick in the air, as beast and beauty were discussed by the bandits. Four of them were counted, and foul were the four. The women knew they stood no chance, and made a pact. At dawn, they would all run. Most would die, but some might live. A long, dreadful, unspeakable night was endured, but no woman fought. The agony and the darkness would end together with the women alone in the wilderness.
Only she escaped and made it to Bryn Baraz.
Zeph Illidian HP 95/95 AC 19/18t/12ff CMD 21 d20+9=10 ; Friday February 3rd, 2012 10:54:14 AM
Zeph's fists shake in anger as he pictures innocent settlers being slain by wicked bandits, "Think we look like settlers enough to get robbed by these guys if we went to Golden Glen?"
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Friday February 3rd, 2012 12:12:14 PM
Garret smiles and nods to Zeph, replying, "I'm sure we can make ourselves look that way. Ready to head over now? I'm ready."
Keela Friday February 3rd, 2012 6:39:03 PM
Keela arranges for Suzy to stay at the inn for the next few days, paying out the coin herself if necessary. "You should stay where there are folks," she tells the distraught young woman. "Don't try to go back out to your place."
She smiles a little at her friends. "I look like a settler already," she says. "But if anyone needs to, they can borrow my hat of disguise."
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Friday February 3rd, 2012 10:03:42 PM
Sjurd throws up his hands in excitement. "Ve get to make new animal friends! Varros vas getting lonely sitting on the shelf by himself. I have a few preparations, but ve could leave by this evening."
The blood witch whispers to Zeph shortly before they leave. "Forgive me, but I must borrow the belladonna und striped toadstool. They are ingested poisons und I doubt you could force feed them to an enemy. I vill return shortly vith a little surprise."
DM Highlight to display spoiler: {Sjurd goes to the local baker and orders two pies. He assists the baker and adds (3) doses of belladonna to one pie and (2) doses of striped toadstool to another. He places them both in a cloth and tucks them in his backpack.}
Sjurd returns to the party, ready to depart. He gives a knowing look to Zeph and touches his mask where his nose would normally be.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Monday February 6th, 2012 10:07:52 AM
ooc: checking in
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Monday February 6th, 2012 12:15:57 PM
Garret looks around, trying to count where the rest of the group is at the moment. "I'm ready to head on over and see what we can see, fellow settlers!"
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; Monday February 6th, 2012 1:56:27 PM
"One sleep and I'll prepare a disguise spell" Dibs said. "But I can probably catch some zees on the road. Ready to go anytime...."
tap... tap... tap was the sound his shield made as he struck it with his drumstick.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Tuesday February 7th, 2012 7:31:03 AM
ooc: checking in
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; Tuesday February 7th, 2012 11:00:14 AM
OOC: checking in also
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Tuesday February 7th, 2012 12:15:08 PM
"I'm not sure how far away this place is. Does anyone have a map or directions we could borrow?"
Zeph Illidian HP 95/95 AC 19/18t/12ff CMD 21 Tuesday February 7th, 2012 3:50:15 PM
Zeph smiles inquisitively at Sjurd when he taps his nose, "Ingested eh?"
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Tuesday February 7th, 2012 5:18:41 PM
Sjurd nods. "Let us just say that a tummy ache may be in store for our enemies."
ooc: Did anyone else get a spam email from Zach?
Keela Tuesday February 7th, 2012 5:23:19 PM
"Dibs, you can use my hat instead of casting a Disguise spell," Keela says. "Unless you're already wearing magic headgear, that is."
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Tuesday February 7th, 2012 10:50:54 PM
ooc: So... is this game dying? Are emails going around that I am not receiving about this situation?
Zeph Illidian HP 95/95 AC 19/18t/12ff CMD 21 Wednesday February 8th, 2012 2:20:30 AM
Zeph puts on a dark cloak and walking stick.
Then he outfits a wagon with a tent and several chests to look like traveling merchants, "Can we get two faithful horses?"
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; Wednesday February 8th, 2012 11:23:03 AM
OOC- DM, DM where art thou DM?
"Thank you Keela. I can cast disguise spells at will, but by borrowing your hat I can spend my energies memorizing a different spell for the day."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Wednesday February 8th, 2012 11:55:57 AM
Garret says to Dibs, "I'm not sure we need that much detail in our disguises. I mean, if we just hide our weapons and armor, they're not likely to think we're anything but settlers, right?"
Keela Wednesday February 8th, 2012 12:32:09 PM
"Daisy used to be a plow-horse," Keela says of her mount. "I'm sure she'd like to come with us, but I don't want her to get hurt."
CONSIGLIERE BEN Wednesday February 8th, 2012 5:56:34 PM OOC: This game may not be dying, but the PCs, well... *BWAHAHAHAaa. ka kaough, hough hough, huff* Need antihistamines before evil laughter next time. I've been on vacation, and my mojo is very off. I took the garbage out on Sunday (collection is Tuesday & Friday). I'll cry negligence on my own behalf. Whether it's ignorance or apathy, I don't know and I don't care.
I never heard from Max or Alex about joining or creating characters, but I had hoped to include them at this juncture. New PCs: If you're out there, now is the time!
Sjurd makes a few mean pies. But not mean like average or mean like Michael Jackson bad, but like really custardly dastardly pie.
Zeph asks about wagons and horses, and is granted access to the finest equipment as a champion. However, his sense of justice and moral code drive him to pay full market value.
Garret tries to ascertain the specifics of the location. Senna provides the most reliable information for location specifics, as she has been tending to Suzy Scamper. There seems to be a significant shortage of information on a gold mine, a town, or any other pertinent detail that would typically surround such a point of interest.
Dibs preps for a Phase II merchant-settler infiltration of the town. An innocent appearance with a bait plan seems like the best course of action for Dibs but Garret seems to hold a differing opinion.
Keela funds and befriends the battered woman, but some deep psychological trauma has been suffered. Suzy spends nearly the next 36 hours alternating between sobbing and slumber.
The confusion and sadness have left a hollow feeling for the entire party, the entire outpost. Bandits, murder, rape, plunder, captive children, mystery and sorrow sweep the dusty streets of Bryn Baraz. From a heroes feast to an emotional famine, what a difference a day makes.
The adventurers glean enough information to plan a 30-mile trek. The dry spell continues, and now a chill bite stings the spring air, as though winter caught a second wind. The trees and grass attempting to bud feel stunted, stagnated. The chill air fails to carry any new pollen, and the scents of spring cease. Grey gloom looms above the town, despite the supposed changing of the season.
-----
Can you provide: 1) Marching Order 2) Travel Spells (if any) 3) Long-Term Buffs (days/hours) 4) Intent upon reaching Golden Glen
Keela Wednesday February 8th, 2012 9:46:08 PM
"If we could have the horses pull a wagon," Keela says, "we could have Avis in the wagon, covered with tarps. That way we'd have her just in case."
She offers to lend Dibs her Hat of Disguise, and offers Daisy as a suitably farmer-looking horse.
In preparing for the trip, she bundles some extra clothes into a satchel, buttons her long "duster" coat over her skirt and blouse, and takes up her staff.
She also casts an Extended Mage Armor (duration 16 hours)
As the group sets out, she stays near the back, as befits a squishy wizard with a poor Perception bonus.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Wednesday February 8th, 2012 10:50:05 PM
With a snap of his fingers, Sjurd disappears before the eyes of the party - replaced only by a vague hazy cloud. A disembodied voice speaks out, "I vill travel above the road und keep an eye out for trouble." The haze floats upward and stops, waiting for the group to leave.
ooc: Use polymorph ability to assume form of Small air elemental.
1. 160 feet above party. 2. Polymorph ability, no cast spells. 3. Polymorph is a permanent ability. 4. Scout overhead at height of 200 feet.
====================== TEMPORARY EFFECTS 88 temporary hit points Air elemental: If the form you take is that of a Small air elemental, you gain a +2 size bonus to your Dexterity and a +2 natural armor bonus. You also gain fly 60 feet (perfect), darkvision 60 feet, and the ability to create a whirlwind.
Zeph Illidian HP 95/95 AC 23/22t/16ff CMD 21 (Mage Armor, Prot vs. Evil)) d20+14=23 ; d20+12=15 ; Thursday February 9th, 2012 2:51:32 AM
"I will not stand for Bryn Baraz to have such crime, Ulfgar, we should train our soldiers to keep a peaceful and productive mining town. Call upon the Justicars of Pantheon to seek out any murderers and the like."
He is almost sad he can't stay to help, but knows the best method is to cut off the head of the Al Mathir
On the road, Zeph sees Sjurd turn into a gust of swirling wind and ascend to the heavens, and simply mutters "Wow"
As he casts his own enchantments.
Nodding, "Yes, Avis can be our cargo, good idea Keela."
Zeph will drive the carriage, if that's ok. Trying to make the ride as smooth as possible (Perception = 23, Ride = 15, bleh)
(Active: Extended Mage Armor (16hours) Protection from Evil (5hours)
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; d20+14=21 ; Thursday February 9th, 2012 10:09:10 AM
"Howdy partner" Dibs said as he tipped the brim of Keela's hat of disguise, and took a seat beside Zeph in the front of the wagon. "One for the road?" the gnome asked as he took out his drumstick and spoke a little tune.
You've have your day don't stand around and frown You've been a good old wagon daddy but you done broke down
Now you better go to the blacksmith's shop and get yourself overhauled There ain't nothing about you to make a good woman fall
Nobody wants a baby when a real man can be found You've been a good old wagon daddy but you done broke down
When you were in your prime you loved to run around You've been a good old wagon honey but you done broke down
Once the group left the safety of the town Dibs stopped his performance and focused his energies on the road ahead.
Actions: Perception 21
Intention once in town Scout the place out; get a sense of things before we go charging in.
Spells Cast: Mage Armor (extended)- 10 hours- +4 AC Chameleon Stride- 5 minutes (cast at will so always active)- +4 stealth; 20% miss chance
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] d20+9=29 ; Thursday February 9th, 2012 1:19:25 PM
Garret climbs up in the wagon when he sees Sjurd take to the air. "Watch good up there, Sjurd!" As Zeph tries to steer the wagon, Garret starts pointing out where he should be driving it and points out the ruts in the trail repeatedly (ride aid: 29). As they ride, Garret says, "When we get there, we should...hey Zeph, move this way a little...we should set up a camp like we're just settlers out for gold. Heck, if nothing happens at first, maybe we should just search for gold ourselves!"
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Thursday February 9th, 2012 11:39:23 PM
ooc: Checking in.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Friday February 10th, 2012 10:25:31 AM
When the wagon goes over a rather large bump and tosses the riders up in the air, Garret says, "No, Zeph, over here! See the holes in the ground? You're supposed to go AROUND those!"
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; Friday February 10th, 2012 10:44:31 AM
"Yeeehaw!" Dibs said as they went over the bump.
"Those bumps are giving Dibs an idea" Dibs said as he started mumbling the words to another song...
God bless the potholes Down on memory lane God bless the potholes Down on memory lane I hope some real Big ones open up And take some Of the memories That do remain
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Friday February 10th, 2012 5:58:53 PM
Sjurd floats down, drawn by Dibs' song. "I know one myself. It is rather... ribaldrous... compared to yours." Sjurd - or rather the hazy cloud of compressed air - clears his throat.
(PG-13 warning)[Edited by Jerry]
Keela Saturday February 11th, 2012 12:25:44 PM
"You know," Keela remarks conversationally, "most ordinary farmers and settlers don't have conversations with invisible flying creatures."
Zeph Illidian HP 95/95 AC 23/22t/16ff CMD 21 (Mage Armor, Prot vs. Evil)) Sunday February 12th, 2012 6:57:04 PM
The wagon bumps up and down under Zeph's amateur wagoning ability, Garret tries to help, "Yeah, I know. - erg, yeah, I got it. Y'know nevermind." '
Eventually he hands the reigns to Garret.
Then he pulls out his spellbook and begins to study Expeditious Retreat just incase we gotta makea quick getaway from bandits. How fast can hoves move?
HA, @ Dib's song, he replies "My bumps, my bumps, my lovely lady bumps. check it out."
SJurd's lude song makes Zeph chuckle under his breath, but then say, "Such manners good gust! Respect a lady's presence, shall we?"
snicker
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Monday February 13th, 2012 12:07:37 PM
Garret looks at Zeph in shock when he hands over the reins. "But I, well, I, oh heck, maybe I can miss a few of those darn holes in the ground!"
He looks up at the cloud hovering over them, telling lewd stories. He glances over at Keela and thinks, "Surely she's heard worse... I guess..."
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Monday February 13th, 2012 4:21:36 PM
Sjurd looks around, humming a tune as they go along.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Tuesday February 14th, 2012 11:46:30 AM
Garret calls out, "See anything interesting up there, Sjurd? And how long can you stay like that, anyway? I don't want you turning back solid and dropping on our heads without some warning, you know?"
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Tuesday February 14th, 2012 12:07:43 PM
"Hmm... that gives me an idea." With an audible pop, Sjurd reappears in the sky above the party. Hanging in the air for an instant, he plummets toward the ground. He whoops in excitement and flails his arms and legs. Just as he nears hitting the earth, he disappears again, leaving only the same hazy cloud as before. "That vas fun!" (180 feet above party, dismiss shapechange, fall 60 feet per round for two rounds, use shapechange again to assume form of air elemental and halt falling)
Stranger in a Pothold [DM Jerry] Tuesday February 14th, 2012 1:05:06 PM
As the wagon, its personal cloud, and passengers roll down the road, it is easy to wonder what could be so horrible on such a day as this.
Then, in the distance, among the dust in the road--which does seem to cling to this figure--something walks your way--if you can call it walking. It takes a few steps and then disappears into a pothole in the road. Then after a few seconds it springs up again, takes a few tentative steps, and then collapses into the next hole.
Very strange and somewhat disturbing.
------------
--Perception checks etc. to learn more about the figure at this point. Higher rolls earn more information. :)
--I will post daily, to the best of my ability, until I hear from Ben and he can return.
--need new players to email me. Get me 1st draft and I will get you into the game with the next day's post. Doesn't have to be perfect.
--Will be checking to see who's not posting and contacting them to encourage them.
--Communicate with me anything you need or that I'm missing. CC Zach and Ben. They may not have the time right now to read it, but it will be there for them to read later.
--Have sent an email. Will send another here in a sec.
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; d20+14=17 ; d20=19 ; Tuesday February 14th, 2012 1:48:59 PM
"Look over yonder" Dibs the actor said with a slight accent. For the next few seconds he studied the creature carefully in effort to determine it's nature.
Actions: Perception- 17 Knowledge check- 19+skill= 25 to 29; depending on the type of knowledge required
CONSIGLIERE BEN Wednesday February 15th, 2012 6:48:05 AM OOC: I'll wait for the potholer to resolve, but I'm ready to press to Golden Glen. From hear forward are the parts of the module I primarily authored/conceptualized. Let's see how it goes...
+1 Internets to Tanner for the Sjurd cut scene about trust. What a great perspective and great imagies!
+1 Internets to Jeff L for the songs in most posts. Very fun, very flavorful.
+1 Internets to Jeff O, Addison and Kathy for sustaining the game. The module was primarily authored with you guys in mind, as the other characters were in flux in December. Here we go...
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] d20-2=6 ; Wednesday February 15th, 2012 9:05:56 AM Perception check 6
"I definitely see a stranger in the road."
ooc: Sjurd readies an action to cast baleful polymorph at the first sign of aggression.
Keela d20+2=16 ; Wednesday February 15th, 2012 10:23:39 AM
Keela watches the strange figure for a moment, unsure what to do next. She is unusually observant, for her, but she doesn't kid herself that her observations will be better than the more attuned members of the party. She watches and waits.
[Perception 16]
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] d20+18=28 ; Wednesday February 15th, 2012 12:18:42 PM
Garret looks when Dibs points and squints his eyes (Perception: 28). "Oh yes, I see someone there."
Wagon + Bones + Guy Triple Point [DM Ben] Thursday February 16th, 2012 5:31:13 AM Sjurd notices a figure in the road, collapsing intermittently.
Dibs and Keela notice the figure is a skeleton, and the intermittent collapsing occurs when the shambling skeleton stumbles on a pothole. It takes a few seconds for the bones to reorganize, reconstitute the proper shape, and return to an upright position. The dust cloud puffs and billows with each collapse, distracting most of the party.
However, Garret notices. It just the foreground, but the background as well. A tall, robed figure meanders behind the skeleton a few hundred yards, projecting indifference with it's body language. Clearly twice the height of a halfling, the figure increases pace upon spotting the wagon train.
Davdok approaches the skeleton, tosses a small vial from his pocket, and the Skelton that was vaporizes in a surprisingly focused explosion of green gas and twisted yellow flames. "Sorry about that, I bumped into a small zombie throng Northwest of here, and was developing a dessication serum. I figured no one would miss a few zombies from the scab..."
--- Enter Alex! ---
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; Thursday February 16th, 2012 11:42:19 AM
Dibs hobbled on his wooden leg in the direction of Davdok. With his lips dressed in a smile and a twinkle in the eye the handsome little gnome performed for the stranger...
Nobody loves a zombie but his mother And she could be jivin' too
Nobody loves a zombie but his mother And she could be jivin' too
Sure be much better than ghosts Runnin' round screamin' BOO!
Dibs smiled again, tipped his hat and said in his put-on accent- "Howdy partner. Dibs McKoy at your service. Zombie throng, eh? How many of them are still walking? How far from here? Can't very well be having a zombie throng so close to town, now can we?"
"Say what's a throng anywho?"
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] Thursday February 16th, 2012 12:23:29 PM
Garret watches as the strange tall figure approaches and he reins in the horses. He stands, ready to leap and attack if needed. He says, "Zombies? From where do you come, traveler?"
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] Thursday February 16th, 2012 3:17:56 PM
ooc: We should describe our characters as well, right?
If Davdok were to look in the air above the party, he would see an invisible shimmer hanging in the air. It would appear to be intently studying the half-orc, as much as an invisible shimmer can appear to be intently studying. A disembodied voice calls out, "Speak, traveler."
Keela Thursday February 16th, 2012 7:46:56 PM
Keela is a human woman, on the tall side, with brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a long, lightweight "duster" coat buttoned over her clothes, which appear to be typical settlers' garb. She wears no armor and carries no visible weapons.
"Zombies?" she echoes faintly.
Chill to the Bone [DM Ben] Friday February 17th, 2012 10:19:02 AM Davdok delivers a detailed description "Delrid the Destined" and the Dwarven daredevils defeating, distracting and dissuading droves of deadites, and their drive to dislodge Duergar from the depths of DrakesMeade. He merely pilfered a few stragglers for experimentation.
The group notices the clouds are thinning, but the air remains cold. Sunshine may gently warm the face, but the air is still unseasonably bitter, as though winter refuse it's grave. The spring garments leave goosebumps on Keela's skin, her duster is perfectly appropriate for a spring day, but leaves her chilled in the brisk air.
Dibs finds his shield and bone slightly out of tune, as the chill kills any malleability of the metal. The bone vibrations become a little jarring, as each jounce rattles the marrow. The spirits of the party are darkened by the loss of music.
The party spirits are further darkened as Garret notices a torn article of clothing on the road. His keen eyes and drivers perch give him great perspective. Zeph wheels around the wagon and inspects the garment. It appears to be a small skirt, with...blood...or something on it. The buttons are missing, but the corresponding threads are freyed.
Sjurd, with his usual tact, declares "Zis garment vas not removed gently." The floating cloud creature diverts attention from the newcomer long enough to comment on the cloth.
The party advances, and in the distance spies tan tinders, where the Golden Glen should be. The ground does seem to glimmer, and as the sun approaches it's apex, the glint of gold sparkles in the dry terracotta dust. Gold, seeping out of the earth, would be a boon to any boomtown.
You see no signs of life. You feel the chill in your bones.
--------------
How do you wish to proceed? 1) Tactical Crawl: Maximize stealth and thorough investigation, sweeping building by building. No "Settler" subterfuge. 2) Medium Pace (sans shampoo): Extensive scanning from street level but potentially compromising cover. 3) Settlers Love Gold: Excited by your new find, drive to the heart of town and look for the stables. "We're so lucky to be here!"
Dibs Mckoy - AC 33/T27/FF25, HP -81/81; d20+15=28 ; d20+14=32 ; Friday February 17th, 2012 3:01:14 PM
"Now might be a good time to scout" Dibs said. "Those of us that are quiet might want to fan out and search the area building by building. So who's with me, eh?"
Dibs reupted his Chameleon Stride spell, then cast detect magic and then moved ahead carefully to scout.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:32/32/25 HP:66/66 Ki:11/11] d20+20=26 ; Friday February 17th, 2012 3:56:59 PM
Garret hops off the wagon and suggests, "I'll sneak around this side (Stealth: 26), Dibs, why don't you head that way. The rest can move into town as if you're settlers, excited by the gold. Sjurd? All clear up there so far?"
Garret's Appearance: An average size halfling, Garret is noticed mostly by the fact he's unnoticeable. He does not stand out in appearance at all, and in a crowd disappears more than normal due to his small size. His voice is quiet, steady, and even. His black hair is nearly always up in a topknot, sticking up about 4 inches, with the sides of his head shaved. On the sides of his head, and leading across to his eyes, there are various dark but colorful tattoos. He travels light, so is seldom seen with much gear. He is usually seen with tan leather pants that end just above his ankles and no shirt, showing his furry body. Around his waist is a rope belt with a couple small pouches hanging off of them, one heavy with small rocks. He is seldom without his sling, either in his hand or on his belt. On his back is a small backpack, clearly far from full.
Sjurd [HP:88/88 AC:18/15/18] d20+15=21 ; d100=68 ; Friday February 17th, 2012 4:06:42 PM
"VAIT!" The hazy shimmer floats downward and stops just above the party. "You vould think that none of you had ever heard of a divination before! Stand still."
Sjurd reaches out with his senses to view Golden Glen from a distance.
ooc: Cast clairvoyance, centered in the middle of the town. Ley line check 68 (successful).
Zeph Illidian HP 95/95 AC 23/22t/16ff CMD 21 (Mage Armor, Prot vs. Evil)) d20+13=27 d20+15=23 Friday February 17th, 2012 7:56:42 PM
Smiling to Davdok and shaking his head at the skeleton, I hate undead, Zeph picks up the garment that has been ripped forcibly from a person and looks it over.
"Yes, divination... and stealth."
Then he begins to cast Detect Victim using the cloth as a focus, hoping to find any survivors that are afraid and aching to get back at whoever caused Golden Glen to become a ghost town...
(Perception = 27, 28 for traps, and Stealth = 23)
Keela Saturday February 18th, 2012 12:35:42 AM
Keela continues to act like a settler, which isn't hard since she was a settler until she was selected for the security group. She chatters excitedly to the others about the town, and possible places to settle. "I can't wait for a nice hot bath," she says.
Zeph Illidian HP 95/95 AC 23/22t/16ff CMD 21 (Mage Armor, Prot vs. Evil)) Saturday February 18th, 2012 4:35:22 AM
Seeing Keela continue the ruse of settler, Zeph lightens up and relaxes.
LOG ON