Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Friday June 28th, 2013 9:15:56 PM
"Brothers..." Wilma says firmly, "What of our companion, Thessa? She was transformed into an ooze while we were on that plane...Emrys keeps her in a jar now. Can she not be returned to her true form...?"
DM Ezra The priests state they will see what they can do, but it will be neither cheap nor quick.
DM Tanner d20+11=18 ; Friday June 28th, 2013 9:39:23 PM
As the party stands in the street, wondering what to do and where to go, you see a crier wandering the streets, trailed by a crew of men plastering posters to lamp posts. His voice is as boisterous as his herald's costume.
"Hear ye, hear ye! The most ancient and noble House Indevan calls for adventurers of noble disposition and sturdy constitution. The revered remains of His Illustrious Majesty King Froederick the Great, honored be his name, have been vilely desecrated and stolen, and a sizable sum of gold is offered for its return! Hear ye, hear ye! The most ancient and noble House Indevan..."
Tuck HP 41/42 AC 18/18/14 Saturday June 29th, 2013 8:09:55 AM
Tuck is relieved at Vaniime's recovering and thanks the priests with a big smile and a hearty handshaking.
Back outside of the temple, Tuck believes it is time to discuss what to do with the children. "What are we going to do with these rascals? They have suffered so much and their family must have long since passed away. I'm concerned that they will have trouble acclimating to this new time. Perhaps we can ask Ms. Goode if she has any ideas. She's lived in the city for a while and has taken a shine to the children. Maybe she could direct us to a facility or some such that would help."
(OOC - I'm off to sunny beaches for a week and a half. Thanks Ariach for taking Tuck. Good luck all!)
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. light, deathwatch, detect magic Saturday June 29th, 2013 2:55:12 PM
Emrys' warmth almost glows like a halo when he reenters Vaniime's chamber during her recovery. "Didn't I tell you ... I saw it written in the stars, today was not your day," he says with a smile. "We're here for you, whatever you need ... except the killing spree you so enthusiastically suggested earlier."
Emrys will also make a request for help with their friend Thessa. He will leave the jar containing her with the priests unless they suggest someone more suitable. He keeps the jar containing the cultist ooze that molested his leg. He can experiment with that one.
Later that evening, in the street, as the sun is barely shown on the horizon, he witnesses the herald ... "nice outfit," he mutters to himself. After they pass, Emrys rips a poster from a lamp pole, folds it up and promptly places it in a pocket. "We are saving this for later! Right now, all we're going to do is find a suitable tavern and fill our bellies. I'm sure our food at home is more than spoiled by now." He gives a loving glance to the children and says, "The needs of our guests is the only reason I'm not immediately jumping in the river with my bar of soap. I can NOT suffer this oozing filth much longer!"
Emrys will also suggest an itinerary for tomorrow. "After dinner, we all bathe thoroughly and get a good nights sleep. Oh... that sounds so goood! In the morning, we need to start cleaning our poor, neglected home. I can go to the Farmer's Market and get our kitchen back in order. Any volunteers to take our guests shopping for new clothes. We all agree the condition of their attire is unacceptable, yes?" As Emrys continues to make a list of chores, he then mentions, "We were to meet with High Commander Graff this morning. I'm sure our absence was noticed. I'm even willing to bet they came looking for us. Let's make this meeting possible, shall we! They still owe us for our trip into Lasher Castle. After that we can take care of personal business, relax and recuperate. THEN and only then do we will consider the poster in my pocket."
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. light, deathwatch, detect magic Saturday June 29th, 2013 6:32:18 PM
In response to the priest's request for money and time to heal Thessa, Emrys whispers in Wilma's ear saying, "We have Thessa's gear, I'm sure she and her family wouldn't mind if we sold a portion of her belongings to pay for her restoration."
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Saturday June 29th, 2013 7:00:17 PM
"Here, brothers," Wilma said, producing ten gold pieces, "A down payment, if you will, on the cost of the ceremonies that will need to be conducted for our friend, Thessa. I will return to the temple from time to time to check on her progress." The young priestess gave the gold to Brother Julias (who seemed to her the most empathetic to Thessa's plight) and went to the sanctuary to pray to Gargul, thankful that Vaniime had been saved from servitude to Ga'al and beseeching that her more experienced fellows of the Black Cathedral could return Thessa to her true form.
Wilma emerged from the temple, leaning more heavily upon her carved staff than usual, a combination of her physical exertions, Van's combative healing session and the news that Thessa's condition would take a long time to reverse.
She watched as the children they'd rescued from their marooned existence walked more-or-less in a cluster, goggling at the hustle-and-bustle of city life. It made her smile--she was very glad that the castaways were no longer imprisoned by the madness of Shandresh. At least now the only people imprisoned on that pocket plane were those who had chosen to go there. Then the children and the Vanguard members returned to Number 2 Raven Crescent.
"We need to talk over where we're putting our houseguests..." Wilma advised as soon as she stepped into the foyer--then coughed for the coating of dust that covered everything. "And did anyone ever find out exactly how much time has passed since we first went to Mistress Goode's house for breakfast...?" She frowned at the dusty rooms.
"Thessa, can you conj--" Wilma instinctively asked out loud, then fell silent as she realized that the young wizard wasn't there, and would not be able to produce a handy-dandy Unseen Servant. She sighed.
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP63/68 Saturday June 29th, 2013 9:26:38 PM
Entering the room, Grell is relieved to see Vaniime recovering, but he stays quiet on the way back home. He considers his actions in the temple and the emotions that brought them on. He hadn't been quite so keenly aware, but his recent actions leave no doubt in his mind...he is thoroughly and completely in love with Vaniime. The thought shocks him and leaves him with even more questions in his mind. And so, as they travel back to their home, Grell is unusually quiet as he contemplates the thought of being in love and the potential weakness that results from the state.
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:40/45, Dodge Sunday June 30th, 2013 7:58:52 AM
Vaniime doesn't even remember thast few minutes of the seed removal, as at some point toward the end she thankfully passed out. When she rewoke the pain and odd feelings she had been having were gone, her leg was bandaged and Wilma was standing beside her with a worried look on her face. At the priest's final announcement that they got it out and that she was going to be fine, Van felt the tension ooze out of her and she greeted each of her friends with a genuine smile.
As they limped back toward home They hear the street crier, and Emrys' thoughts about Commander Graff and everyones thoughts about the kids and she agrees with most of it. It is only when Wilma wonders out loud about where the kids are going to stay, that she has any worries and agrees with some of Tucks' comments.
Mrs. Goode, what do you think should be done with/for the children? I'm not at all sure it would be right, in the long run, for them to stay with us, as we are likely to be gone for lengths of time and lets face it some of us are not much older then they are. What do you think?
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 59/59 Monday July 1st, 2013 10:17:54 AM
Hearing that the heartseed was successfully removed from Vaniim, makes Ariach really happy. When the topic comes to Thessa and her restoration Ariach proposes to use the group money for the costs inccured. For him it is clear that the Vanguards are responsible for Thessa´s recovery. And if it will cost all their money they have to pay it because a human´s life is worth much more.
DM Tanner Monday July 1st, 2013 11:47:00 AM OOC:
Dear Friends,
There is usually a period of awkward adjustment as a new DM takes the helm of a game. I'm not entirely familiar with all of the ins and outs of the Legacy of Heroes game and everything that has happened to you. If it seems that I am missing details, or I get something wrong, please let me know. Thank you in advance for your patience.
DM Tanner
DM Tanner Monday July 1st, 2013 12:34:03 PM
Realizing the need for rest and recuperation, your party heads home. Ms. Goode has prepared several hot baths, and several rounds of thorough scrubbing with scented soaps removes the last vestiges of slime and muck from your skin and clothing. You sleep - or rather collapse - for the evening.
You awake in the morning and get to work. You discover that despite the break-in while you were away, at most the house is in disarray, with nothing broken or damaged. Ms. Goode comments that you were gone for nearly a month. "I spoke with some of the neighbors and they said nothing happened, really. The city was quiet until a few days ago. Now all the washer-women talk about is how high and mighty House Indevan is brought low by the theft of their dear dead king. Or rather, his bones. They're offering a heap of gold for its return." Emrys departs for the marketplace, where he purchases vittles to last for a good length of time. He also stops by the tailor, and picks up two sets of clothing for each of the children brought back from the demiplane of ooze. (10gp total)
Rested, fed, clothed, and organized, you set out for the Woldian League of Adventurers headquarters. Plateau City is a hustle and bustle as thousands upon thousands of tailors, tinkers, smiths, carpenters, potters, merchants, and adventurers traverse the city streets. You make your way to the impressive WLA building, and after a brief exchange with the guards you are ushered into a foyer off the great hall. A few minutes of waiting later, and you are greeted by High Commander Graf as he enters the room. "Welcome, welcome! It is good to see you alive and whole. Tell me, what of Castle Lasher? We feared you dead after so long had passed."
DM Ezra Monday July 1st, 2013 12:46:06 PM I'm looking forward to having two DM's posting, occasionally there may be some back-tracking and catch up.
Ms. Goode asks where the other boy is. Looking about, it becomes apparent that Heath is not with you. Thinking back, you don't recall seeing him after Vaniime was cured.
Tuck Monday July 1st, 2013 4:39:07 PM
Normally Tuck doesn´t hesitate to taunt Grell even during dangerous tasks. But this time the monk feels a different in Grell´s behavior while focusing Vaniim´s bad health situation. Tuck sees and understands how this situation bothers Grell. Another sign of Grell´s bad mood is the lack of conversation and joking from the big warrior. Therefore the monk remains silent until the reach their home. "Grell, you know where i am if you are searching for someone to talk or if you need a friend."
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Monday July 1st, 2013 4:41:39 PM
OOC: I adjusted Ariach´s hitpoints
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:40/45, Dodge Monday July 1st, 2013 11:15:18 PM
Vaniime turns to bed as soon as she has eaten after returning to their home and gets a very good night's sleep.
As they are ushered into Graff's office, she looks around and then seeing no one else about to answer, does so herself.
"Well Sir, as you are aware the cleansing of the Castle went fairly well and that portal was closed. However when we returned home and were planning to return the next morning as you had asked so as to pick up our pay, we were asked to investigate something by one of our neighbors and ... ummm.... well.... we kind of discovered another portal and got sucked through. That's where we've been for the past month saving some kids dealing with the badguys and getting back again. Oh and closing the portal as well."
As she finished, she looks around at her fellows to see if anyone has anything else to add and then waits for a response from Graff.
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 d20+2=11 ; d3=1 ; d20+2=19 ; d20+2=6 ; d20+12=27 ; d20+12=17 ; d20+12=17 ; Monday July 1st, 2013 11:53:22 PM OOC: I'd like to point out that--under NO circumstances--would Wilma allow one of their charges to "just disappear" without having asked after them at least. They lost Thessa to transformation, nearly lost Ariach to the Monster Swamp Tide, and almost lost Van to a heartseed that hadn't been detected until almost too late. Any short counts on their rescuees would have set off alarm bells, especially since I've posted her preoccupation with the issue of "what do we do with the Anachronism Gang now?"
Just sayin'.
IC:
"First of all--thank you for being a great hostess, Mistress Goode," Wilma told the talented baker, "But...if Heath is missing, we have to go looking for him. Would you be so kind as to look after the other children while we search, please...?"
Wilma wolfed down whatever food there was for her and, taking up her distinctive staff, set off to search for the missing teen (assuming that Mistress Goode agreed to babysit the others.)
OOC: rolled a few times for any Diplomacy rolls needed to gather information from those whom she is asking "have you seen this boy...?" and a few Perception rolls for her to spot anything that looks likely to yield a clue as to where Heath has been/gone. Ignore the d3 roll--I hit the wrong button by accident.
DM Ezra - The only person that recalls seeing him was a scullery maid that saw him walk out the service door to the rear of the temple. This entry is normally used for deliveries and servants, as he was not in priestly attire, she assumed he had delivered something. Everyone else on the first level was pre-occupied with Vaniime, as you were. After talking to several people, a groggy Brother Guildlin comes out of a room rubbing the back of his head. The specimen tray he is holding at his side is empty. He thinks he tripped and fell on something. He thinks he was on his way back from the furnace but isn't sure. He isn't infected by the heartseed, nor is anyone else in the temple. (checking takes a couple of hours) There is no trace of Heath, efforts to track him down unfortunately prove fruitless as any trail through the city has drawn cold.
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. light, deathwatch, detect magic Monday July 1st, 2013 11:55:15 PM
Emrys is pleasantly surprised to find Ms. Goode having prepared everyone a nice, hot bath. He has to restrain his affections to a mere kiss on the hand. He would have given her a prolonged embrace if he wasn't so filthy. He soaks in the bath, with a wash cloth over his face for a good long time, well, until the water goes cold. As he sits at his vanity, wearing his favorite silk robe, he methodically brushes his long, coppery locks of hair. The window next to him is open and the night's breeze gently caresses his nearly unblemished skin. Blotchy acid burns barely show now, however they're only a minor annoyance. With each stroke of the brush through his hair, he begins to feel normal again. However ... what is normal? He looks at himself in the mirror. It was like meeting himself for the first time. Now that he knows the big secret. Suddenly from behind, in the mirror, Emrys spots an owl silently land on his windowsill. It breaks the silence with a spirited 'hoot'. "Gestalt!" he calls as he kneels next to the window. "Oh, Im so glad to see you. I'm sorry I was gone. We got back as soon as we could. I missed you too, but I'm glad you needn't suffer such a horrid place. You look well fed ... ahh yes, this city does have an ample rodent supply."
(Gestalt is Emrys' animal spirit - I forgot to include him in the last module, he was a new addition after the Great Woldian Paradigm Shift back at the beginning of the year.)
----------------------
After a good nights sleep, Emrys is up early to go buy the freshly picked produce from the farmer's market. "Ohh, what a nice selection of herbs as well!" He grabs some coriander, basil, blackthorn berries, aconite, breeam, hemlock, juniper bark, mugwort, some really fresh frankincense and some dried valerian leaves which should make a nice relaxing tea. There may still be some frayed nerves in the house.
After getting home with food, and new clothes for their guests, he looks around, counts a few heads and asks, "Where has Heath run off too?" He rolls his eyes, that one is trouble. In the kitchen, Emrys summons two unseen servants and gets to work cleaning the kitchen and pantry all the while preparing breakfast. Hopefully the scent of salted pork, fatback, eggs and toasting slices of bread in the oven will arouse some of the other Vanguard. Gestalt playfully pecks at his triangle while the invisible servants do their work in silence.
----------------------------
Later that day the Vanguard make their way to the office of High Commander Graf. (BTW, he knows the outcome of Lasher Castle, he lead the multi-group expedition. He's a very high-level rogue.) "Thank you, It is very good to be alive and whole, Commander." Emrys then gives a glance at Vaniime to see a reaction. Alas, not all is well. We all didn't return as we left. Thessa, although alive, now resides in a jar in the form of an ooze. She is in the capable hands of the priests at the Black Cathedral. She is in our prayers for a quick and full recovery." Emrys goes quiet to allow others to speak if they wish on the subject.
When the subject turns back to the Lasher Castle expedition, Emrys inquires, "Were we able to determine the source of the strange green portal? The slithering beast I saw within the portal haunted my dreams last night!"
Tuck Tuesday July 2nd, 2013 5:26:22 PM
Thankfully Tuck collapses into the bed of his room at the Vanguards´ headquarter and falls asleep soon. The next morning he fullfills his daily routine until they are invited to High Commander Graf.
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Tuesday July 2nd, 2013 5:42:28 PM
Ariach is happy to be home. There is no doubt that they were lucky to come back from this trip. But now they all are back at their new house and Ariach finds out that he feels very comfortable in his new room. He takes off his armor, shield and weapons and starts to clean it diligently. A few hours later after he has finished his work he goes to bed. That tired he falls in a deep sleep immediately. After breakfast Ariach get told that the Vanguards are invited to the WLA headquarter. Although he wishes to stay longer at home without chances of more troubles he has no choice other than following the invitation.
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP63/68 Tuesday July 2nd, 2013 8:58:31 PM
Grell spends his evening in solitude. He thanks Tuck for his offer to talk things through, but mostly he needs time to sort through his emotions. So much has happened since they left, and Grell finds himself wrestling with the emotions of losing his pet and then the heart wrenching experience with Van and the heartseed. Even though he is exhausted, Grell is not able to get much rest during the night.
Rising extra early, Grell doubles his early morning work out, starting with his daily jog up and down the stairs next to his room. Then he doubles his morning run and then heads to the WLA workout area for a little extra sword work. He is completely covered in sweat by the time the others finally head over to the WLA, but he looks quite a bit happier.
He listens in to the situation report made by the others and nods, but finds himself more than a little preoccupied by the sight of Vaniime. Though she still has a slight limp and she looks a little paler than normal, Grell is still completely overwhelmed with the sight of her well and sound. He thinks back to yesterday and the gut wrenching fear that he might lose her. His stomach knots up and the warrior attempts to draw his thoughts back to the current conversation, though it is a difficult task. Shaking his head in attempt to clear it, his mind wanders toward their pay for the Lasher Castle assignment...and he wonders if his share is going to be enough to purchase what he has in mind at the Catacombs.
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Tuesday July 2nd, 2013 10:28:47 PM OOC: Wilma is currently undergoing CS Surgery, as the player accidentally included a Feat in her sheet that is illegal, so she isn't going to be able to cast Locate Object to find the heartseed specimen with which she is so annoyingly intimate. Not yet, anyhow...
"I can't believe that I didn't miss Heath earlier!" Wilma fumed at her own preoccupation with Van's welfare. "How can I have failed him so? Especially when he was one of the ones who really wanted to get back to the Wold..."
DM Tanner Tuesday July 2nd, 2013 11:49:11 PM
High Commander Graf listens intently, stroking his beard and nodding as you relay your adventures through Castle Lasher, the demiplane of ooze, and rescuing the children. When you finish, he is silent for a beat before sighing heavily through his nose. "This is troubling. Agents of Ga'al are insidious and difficult to detect. They work in shadows. Some of our WLA contacts have reported unusual activities lately, magically intercepting several messages discussing plans for something big. What it is, we do not know." He shakes his head to clear his thoughts. "But that is another matter. You, all of you, have done fine work." He gets a twinkle in his eye and a smile tweaks the corner of his mouth. "Just a moment." He steps out of the room.
After several minutes, he returns with an iron-shod wooden chest. He places in on the ground with a grunt. "Since you are doing so well, I thought the least we could do is to properly outfit you." He opens the chest and rummages through a collection of items, most of which appear quite expensive. Some of them even glow with magic.
He removes a thick leather belt with a large steel buckle depicting the image of a flexing titan. "For the warrior," and hands it to Grell.
[You have received a belt of physical might (Str, Con) +2.]
He reaches in again and removes a small, square leather box with two leather thongs. "For the priestess," and hands it to Wilma.
[You have received a phylactery of positive channeling.]
He reaches in again and removes two pairs of bracers. "For the monk," giving one pair to Tuck, "And for the mystic." and gives a pair to Emrys.
[You have both received a pair of bracers of armor +3.]
He rummages through the chest, and frowns as he regards the last two members. "I don't think I have anything in here for you... but I know just the thing. If you don't mind?" He gingerly approaches you and removes several items of equipment from your person. "I will return in a few minutes. Let us see what we can swap these for in the vault."
He leaves, then returns promptly. He holds out a flail and shield. "For the defender," and hands them to Ariach.
[Your masterwork flail has been replaced by a +2 flail. Your tower shield +1 has been replaced by a mithral tower shield +1.]
Lastly, he holds out a fine suit of leather armor with shining metal studs. "For the woodswoman." and hands it to Vaniime.
[Your +1 studded leather armor has been replaced by +3 shadow studded leather armor.]
"You have a bright future ahead of you, Vanguards. I hope to hear more of your adventures. Go forth and do good, and may the sun always smile upon you."
Ding! Congratulations, every member of the party is now awarded enough experience points to bring them to 30,000xp! (i.e. Everyone now has 30k xp. Level yourself if necessary.)
DM Ezra Wednesday July 3rd, 2013 2:07:39 AM The heroes have several options open to them, if any have the ability to craft, a module has ended and a day for crafting is available (5 total crafting days for all gear). This would also be a good time to do any neighborhood character development you would like to engage in.
Vaniime feels eyes upon her as they walk to the WLA and as she tells their story, but she can't seem to find them until they are in the room and she realises that Grell has been watching her. Blushing slightly, she feels more than a bit embarassed that she wasn't stronger during her ordeal with the heart seed and its removal. And of all of the group it was Grell she wanted to impress the most. And there I was screaming like a little baby. How weak is that? Hardly the sign of a leader.
As Graff gives them their rewards, Van straightens up a bit and thanks him for the improved armor.
As they head out back to their home, she moves a bit away from the others, kind of walking in a bit of a funk and lost in her own thoughts.
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. light, deathwatch, detect magic d20+15=27 ; Wednesday July 3rd, 2013 2:28:20 PM
Emrys' eyes widen when he and Tuck receive their bracers. "Thank you, Commander Graf. These are truly glorious treasures you give us. Look Tuck, the hand-tooled leather! Such artistry, see the dragon hidden among the foliage? So intricate! Thank you again, this is so very gracious."
When they arrive home, Emrys decides he needs to recharge the soul and heads straight to the music room. Taking his darkwood lute, he begins to play. (Perform [strings]: 27)
(ooc: i have more but Im on my phone and got tired of the small keys.)
Tuck Wednesday July 3rd, 2013 7:00:06 PM
Tuck thanks the High Commander and observes his gift carefully. "You are absolutely right, Emry. These bracers are excellent craftsmanship." He puts them on immediately and cannot wait to test them while fighting. Maybe he asks Grell later for a practise fight.
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Wednesday July 3rd, 2013 7:14:21 PM
Ariach bows to High Commander Graf when he receives his donation. "I am not worthy of these gifts. It was my duty to act this way. I had to act in a way how the codex dictates it. I have not done anything heroic that deserves such a reward." It doesn´t matter whether Ariach receives the items or not. Ariach will thank the High Commander.
DM Tanner Wednesday July 3rd, 2013 10:53:53 PM
The group receives their gifts with praise for their benefactor and humility for their duties.
What shall they do next?
ooc: UPDATE - We have half a module ready. I have notes for the second half. Jerry needs to read it over and approve it before it officially starts. Sorry for the delay. Don't forget to level up and post any changes.
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Wednesday July 3rd, 2013 11:19:05 PM
Wilma gratefully accepts the phylactery but she privately wonders how she's going to be able to wear it and her brand-spankin' new Headband of Inspired Wisdom at the same time....
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP63/68 Wednesday July 3rd, 2013 11:33:16 PM
Vaniime's eyes turn toward Grell's and he instantly shifts his gaze to the ground. CRUD! She caught me staring at her!! Grell shift his feet for a few seconds of uncomfortable silence and then decides to approach the subject head on like any good orc would. His eyes still locked on the ground, Grell scoots over to where Vaniime is standing.
He tries his best to keep his conversation discreet and at a whisper while attempting to look interested in the briefing to Graff. "Hey, uhhh...Van...looks like the leg is holding up pretty good..." The warrior practically face palms himself....of all the STUPID things to say!! Think Grell...think man!
Grell scratches his chin idly, noticing the small patch of fuzz that's starting to form as he tries to figure out how to recover from such a stupid statement. "Errrr...you know...I would have broken one of those priest's arms if I thought it would help yesterday..." Geeeeeez....talk about making things worse...c'mon you half wit...can't you say something remotely intelligent?!
Grell clears his throat and his cheeks turn an awkward red as he decides to just get it out in the open. "Soooo...yeah....I just wanted you to know....ehhmmm...I thought you were really brave yesterday." His heart pounding in his ears, Grell shifts his stance from left foot to right foot as he tries to find the right words, "You remember that one summer when I was 7 and I stayed at the orc camp the entire summer? Yeah well, I uuuuhhhmm...I wasn't exactly truthful about what happened there. See, it's a long story, but I kinda ended up in the worg pen..."
Grell has a brief flash back of fangs and fur...the taste of blood filling his mouth...his strength fading as he tried desperately to crawl out... "Ahemm...so anyway, I got tore up pretty bad and Wilma had to patch me up...and well, I don't remember a lot after that because I passed out most of the time from the pain." Grell absently runs a hand over a particularly deep scar on his neck that just peeks out from the edge of his armor. Grell looks up at Vaniime as he shotguns the next words out, terrified that she will understand the depth of his weakness and push him away. "So I just wanted to tell you that I thought it was really amazing the way you were able to push through all the pain..." The words seem to hang in the air as Grell searches Van's eyes trying to gauge her reaction to his confession.
Grell is snapped out of his heartfelt confession when Graff turns to him.
"For the warrior,"
"Huh? Oh...hey...thanks, that's nice..." Grell's gaze shift to the belt that was just placed in his hand, and it takes a couple of seconds for it to register. A belt of STRENGTH!! HOLY MOTHER OF DOMI!! Grell fingers the buckle fondly. "Sir, thank you!!" The warrior's exuberance is almost puppy like. He has literally dreamed of these since his Dad took him on his first window shopping trip to the Catacombs. "Hey, would it be okay if I put it on??" Once he has approval, Grell buckles the belt on and is awed as the rush of adrenaline courses through his limbs, giving him strength he only dreamed of! He turns to his old pal Tuck and grins. "Maybe now I have half a chance at a wrestling match with you!"
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Thursday July 4th, 2013 2:51:56 PM
Tuck grins too as he responds to Grell "Not even half a chance! It´s the man who wrestles not the item!"
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Thursday July 4th, 2013 3:00:05 PM
At home Ariach examines his new items. The new flail is of course a very powerful weapon but compared to the new shield it is worthless. Ariach wonders how a human person can produce such a wonderful thing. The sparkle fascinates him every time anew. His new shield is worth to be the shield of a protector. Hopefully the protector is worth to wield the shield.
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. light, deathwatch, detect magic d20+15=16 ; Thursday July 4th, 2013 6:36:51 PM
(ooc: again from phone, so short and sweet.)
Emrys continues to play his lute. He sways with the melody, eyes closed as if in a trance. Suddenly a string breaks and he wakes startled from his dream of song. (Perform [string]: 16, nat. 1)
He just sits and stares at it in disbelief.
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, Thursday July 4th, 2013 10:29:52 PM
Van suddenly finds Grell up by her side talking to her.
"Errrr...you know...I would have broken one of those priest's arms if I thought it would help yesterday...
I just wanted you to know....ehhmmm...I thought you were really brave yesterday
So I just wanted to tell you that I thought it was really amazing the way you were able to push through all the pain..."
She acknowledges his presence but doesn't speak while at the WLA.
When they make it back to the house she walks right up to him, cornering him and Lightly kisses him on the lips.
Thank You"
That said she turns and heads upstairs to her room. Halfway up the stairs she stops and turns back and looking at him she smiles.
You do know I sent you from the room because I didn't want you to hurt the priests while they were doing their job and not because I didn't want you around, yes?
Without waiting for an answer she turns and heads back to her room.
DM Tanner Thursday July 4th, 2013 11:30:34 PM
ooc: Happy Independence Day! No posting today. :)
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Thursday July 4th, 2013 11:44:59 PM
Happy Independence Day to everyone! 8)
DM Ezra - Home at Last Friday July 5th, 2013 12:39:07 PM
The hero's return to their home, finding that a month's worth of dust has accumulated throughout the building. One broken window has let the cat out.
Ms. Goode has offered to put up the children for a few days, though she expects that someone will be doing something about a more permanent solution.
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Friday July 5th, 2013 6:56:17 PM
Ariach wonders what they should do with the rescued kids. They are old enough to start working. Following an idea he goes to different craftsmen asking for an apprentice position for one of the kids. If he is successful he confronts the kids with the results.
DM Tanner Friday July 5th, 2013 9:48:19 PM
Ariach visits stalls in the market, placing inquiries as to openings for apprenticeships.
What is everyone else doing with their resting/crafting time?
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Monday July 8th, 2013 7:21:19 AM
Wilma put the shiny, new (and rather pretty) phylactery away into her haversack...she paid all the money she'd been keeping in her lock box into the group's fund so that nobody else would be shorted for money because of the valuable Headband of Inspired Wisdom she was claiming from the loot the group had gotten from that awful Plane of Goo.
Plane of Goo...
Wilma meditated for a bit, then cast her spell to Locate Object, orienting on that terrible heartseed that had disappeared from the Black Cathedral before the clerics could secure it for study. She had a sneaking suspicion that, wherever the seed might be, Heath would be found with it...
Regardless of the outcome of the spell, however, Wilma was agreed with Ariach: the rescued children needed to be settled somewhere so that they could begin to live less restricted lives.
"If there is nowhere else to put them," the redheaded cleric told the others in the Vanguard, "We have plenty of room here in the townhouse--that nursery section with the playroom and the schoolroom are surely large enough to house them so that they aren't immediately separated from each other. We'd likely have to rearrange the furniture a bit--you know, move some of the bunkbeds from the old servant's quarters and such--but they'd still be together, more or less." She thought a bit.
"We can ask them if any of them would like to become apprentices or the like," Wilma said, "Those who don't might be amenable to staying here and helping around this townhouse until such time as they decide they do have something they'd like to do with their life..."
Tuck Monday July 8th, 2013 5:06:32 PM
Tuck meditates a few hours in his room before he comes downstairs to join the group. On his way down he knocks at Grell´s door. "Come on buddy! I am waiting downstairs for you. There is not time to rest but it is time for our wrestling practise. Unless you're too exhausted....." Never before Tuck has seen Grell in such a reflective mood. Vaniim injury had really bothered Grell. Hopefully Tuck will see the old Grell soon. At all events Tuck will try to help him to become the old again. "Come on Grell! I am waiting for you- you little sissy...."
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Monday July 8th, 2013 5:10:08 PM
As Ariach returns to the townhouse the warrior tells the others that he has found at least one craftsman who is thinking about taking an apprentice. The man is a blacksmith and maybe one of the boys is interested in becoming a master of this craft. "And there is still the possibility to send them to the Maplehurst Academy. If they survive such a long time in this hazardous environment they maybe have the skills to make more out of their lives."
After listening to his friends´ reactions he visits the temple of Domi and asks a priest for absolution because he is guilty of failing his companiens. He could neither save Thessa nor prevent Vaniim becoming the victim of the heartseed
DM Ezra - Home at Last Monday July 8th, 2013 7:16:30 PM
Ariach wonders about the children (they are all midteens, youngest is 14, oldest 17). He finds a blacksmith willing to take on an apprentice and suggests Mapplehurst Academy.
Wilma casts Locate Object. The spell searches for a corrupted heartseed within 600' of Wilma. Wilma wonders if it is fortunate that the response was negative. She suggests housing the kids in one of the rooms in the Vanguard home.
Knowledge:history DC 22 Highlight to display spoiler: {One of the surnames rings a feint bell, the name has been heard before, an old noble family?}
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. light, deathwatch, detect magic d20+20=23 ; Monday July 8th, 2013 7:26:34 PM
Emrys replaces the broken string on his darkwood lute and leaves it to rest on his bed. Gestalt keeps himself occupied with a good book over at the desk. His eyes scan across the pages, stopping only to carefully turn a page with his beak. Emrys freshens his appearance and then proceeds to put on his finest noble's outfit. He looks at himself in the mirror nitpicking at its fitting and adorning himself with his jewelry and signet ring. He takes his beloved walking stick and poses with it as he admires his reflection. "The perfect accessory, I must say." He's isn't sure how much time had passed as he stood there. It was easy to lose oneself in the presence of such splendor. Before he leaves his room, he takes the unfortunate scepter from the table and places it within a pocket within his inner cloak.
When Emrys makes his way down from his room, he pleasantly greets everyone he meets. He sees Tuck trying to persuade Grell into a wrestling match and he interrupts. "Tuck, Grell, I will be gone for a few hours. I going to Sage Guild to see if I can charm myself into their order. Wish me luck." He then heads for the front door. Before exiting the house, he activates a gold, garland band in his hair (Hat of Disguise) and transforms his atire to common-looking clothes with no special adornments. He doesn't want to draw any attention until just before he arrives at the sage tower (Disguise: 23). Before he comes into view of the guild, he releases the illusion and lets his brillance shine. He wouldn't want to insult their intelligence with such a simple trick.
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. d20+9=11 ; Monday July 8th, 2013 7:32:21 PM
(Knowledge [History]: 11. Whoa, a dark cloud hangs over Emrys. He hasn't rolled higher than a 3 in several posts. I guess he's distracted.)
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, Knowledge local d20+6=20 ; d20+6=14 ; d20+6=24 ; d20+6=19 ; d20+6=14 ; Diplomacy d20=9 ; d20=14 ; d20=16 ; d20=12 ; d20=8 ; Knowledge Nobility d20+3=19 ; d3=2 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=8 ; d20+3=10 ; Diplomacy d20=14 ; d20=6 ; d20=15 ; d20=17 ; d20=17 ; d20+6=9 ; d20+6=13 ; d20+6=23 ; d20+6=18 ; d20+6=7 ; Tuesday July 9th, 2013 8:14:27 AM
Vaniime spends her week on three specific tasks.
* Get fully healthy - exersize workouts and weapon forms and time in the druid quarter among the trees.
*Getting to know the neighborhood, the neighbors and the businesses.
She does this by being very visible and walking around introducing herself and talking with everyone from children to grans. She goes into all the shops and businesses to learn about their provender and to get to know them and to buy a little something in each. Diplomacy DC 14, 6, 15, 17, 17 Sense Motive DC 9,13, 23,18, 7 (nat 1)
* research info about the house Indivan and the Illustrious Majesty King Froederick the Great and the theft of his bones. knowledge local DC 20, 14, 24, 19, 14 Diplomacy DC 9, 14, 16, 12, 8 Knowledge Nobility DC 19 23(nat 20), 23 (nat 20), 8, 10
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 d20+5=15 ; Tuesday July 9th, 2013 3:32:26 PM OOC: First, sorry about not posting yesterday--slight medical emergency interrupted me, but all is fine now. Second, Wilma's Knowledge of History isn't good enough to recall anything at the moment...
The young priestess of Gargul came away from her meditation feeling more than a little disappointed: she probably should have cast her spell earlier, but she'd been busy with the situation at hand to even think of it. Now only the gods knew where Heath and that heartseed were.
She called a meeting with the other members of the Vanguard in order to talk over options for the youngsters they had rescued from the pocket plane of goo. When Ariach mentioned his inquiries after possible apprenticeships, Wilma had to smile.
"We'll have to ask if any of them would like to get into blacksmithing, then," she said with a nod, "But I was thinking--until they can find their way in today's Wold--we've got enough room to put them up here...we have three or four of the guest rooms empty...or we can even house them in the children's part of the house by relocating some of the bunkbeds into the rooms if they prefer to stay together. What do you all think...?"
Wilma went on to point out the obvious:
"We were lucky enough to get some cash and neat stuff--" Here the redhead touched her fingers to the headband that encircled her brow, "--but I know we'll be using most of that to upgrade our stuff and then make sure that our landlord is paid properly. I think we need to give serious consideration to that reward being offered for finding that missing ancestor stuff..."
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Tuesday July 9th, 2013 5:07:56 PM
Ariach agrees with the proposal to accommodate the children. "It´s strange for me to be responsible for these kids now. And to tell you the truth, it makes me feel uncomfortable. But it is important for me to help them finding a way back to regular life." Ariach takes a small leather pouch out of his backpack and hands it over to Wilma. "In here are 100 goldpieces. You always know what to to Wilma. Please buy new clothes, new furniture or whatever they need."
Afterwards he goes again to the temple of Domi where he prays for a long time. Before he leaves he donates 500 goldpieces to the temple in the name of the Vanguards.
On his way back home he passes a small market and buys a beautiful red rose. He leaves the rose in front of Wilma´s door.
Tuck Tuesday July 9th, 2013 5:12:10 PM
Tuck works a couple hours to adjust the big house after the long absence of it owners.
Of course he will assist Wilma whenever she needs a helping hand dealing with the children.
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP63/68 Tuesday July 9th, 2013 9:34:32 PM
Grell grins at Tuck's taunting. "Alright big guy, you're on...tonight after everybody's finished we'll throw down...and I'll embarass you in front of all the ladies." He acknowledges Emry's trip with a nod of the head. "Hey, can you pick up some more of that delish bacon?? Thanks!!"
Grell heads out for a mid day jog and exercise routine. After cleaning up, he heads over to Vaniime's room and spends the rest of his time hanging out with her...spending quality time sparring...working on refining his reflexive responses...and not a small amount of time just watching her move.
As Emrys continues on down the hallway from Grell's room, he pauses and a sly smile forms across his face. Answering Grell's request, he says, "Certainly. I will stop by the butcher on the way back." His smile continues all the way to the front door. He knew there was remedy for whatever ailed the troubled soul. For some it's music, art and fine drink. For others, it could be a walk in the woods or communion with their god. For Grell, it's a good cut of salt pork.
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Tuesday July 9th, 2013 10:34:41 PM OOC: Pickled pigs' feet, Emrys...Grell picked up that habit from his Dad. ;D
DM Tanner Tuesday July 9th, 2013 11:41:09 PM
ooc: Sending the module to Jerry for approval. Bleh, sorry for all of the delays.
Also, please remember to update your character sheets to level 6 if you were previously level 5, and post changes on this board.
Tuck HP 42/42 AC 18/18/14 Wednesday July 10th, 2013 9:00:46 AM
(OOC - I'm back! Thanks, Ariach, for taking care of Tuck. I'm posting now and will be updating Tuck to 6. Hopefully, he'll be set by tomorrow.)
With so many things on his mind, Tuck sets to to try and clean up their home. The labor takes his mind off off their recent trials.
Vaniime almost died. Thessa is an ooze. Orphaned children we need to find a home for, one of whom has gone missing with a heartseed.
He scrubs more vigorously.
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Wednesday July 10th, 2013 5:53:43 PM
Between his weapon exercises and his prayer meeting Ariach finds time to go to the WLA headquarter. He strolls around and is very interested in the other members who are there. Maybe he hears some news about Lasher Castle.
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. d20+9=23 ; d20+8=28 ; Wednesday July 10th, 2013 7:58:01 PM
(ooc: I guess Sage Tower will need to be resolved in a different timeline, possibly as a flashback in a future scene :)
Emrys returns home from his meeting with Sage Tower with a sizable cut of salt pork and fatback wrapped in sack cloth. "I must declare, Short Shanks is the finest halfling butcher in city. They made a very special cut just for you Gre ... oh pardon, am I interrupting something?" Emrys pauses to listen to the conversation.
"Ahh, the children. I've invested a great deal of thought about them as well. I recall one of them saying that they had seen Mistress Goode's cellar before. Doesn't that strike any of you as somewhat odd? If they date back to the Third Age, like I first surmised, then Mistress Goode's townhouse would have yet to exist, much less survive the great cataclysm of that era!" (Knowledge [History]:23. Knowledge [Engineering]: 28, nat. 20. To determine the age for Goode's house, by its condition and style of architecture.)
Emrys continues, "Has anyone tried talking to them? Possibly finding out their family names; where they are from. Maybe the length of their stay there was a fanciful stretch of the imagination. It would be difficult to calculate without the passing of day and night."
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, Know local d20+6=19 ; d20+6=26 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+6=11 ; d20+6=8 ; Know nobility d20+3=7 ; d20+3=17 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+3=10 ; d20+3=21 ; Doplomacy d20=18 ; d20=9 ; d20=1 ; d20=2 ; d20=1 ; Wednesday July 10th, 2013 8:41:31 PM
Continuing her workouts with Grell and information hunting. By the end of the five days she is getting a bit testy and irritated.
Know local DC 19, 26 (nat 20), 7 (nat 1), 11, 8 Know nobility DC 7, 17, 14, 10, 21 Diplomacy DC 18, 9, 1, 2, 1
(OOC: OOH Boy! someone is starting to irritata Vaniime and she is starting to get fed up with them.......)
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Wednesday July 10th, 2013 10:23:12 PM
"What you say makes a lot of sense, Emrys," Wilma agreed with the charming half-elf. "I'm not even sure if it's been properly explained to them about exactly what time it is in relation to when they were first transported to that horrible place. I'd feel a lot better knowing that they understood about that, as well as getting their input about where they all would like to go from here."
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP63/68 Wednesday July 10th, 2013 11:20:29 PM
Very much like a kid in a candy store, Grell beams his appreciation To Emrys. "Thanks! I've been craving some bacon FOREVER! "
Grell follows Vaniime around like a provebial puppy while she's on her information gathering. "Hey, what do you think about having the kids maybe help out around the place while we're gone. Like cook, clean... maybe hunt a little. Just a thought. "
DM Tanner Thursday July 11th, 2013 12:01:21 AM
ooc: I have a whole heap of information that I would love to reveal, in light of Vaniime's excellent rolls...
I just need approval on the module. It is worth it, I promise! To quote Jerry, "It is VERY good Tanner... I've gone over what you've done. It is very good [saying that again]." So thank you for your patience!
Thank you, everyone, for posting your leveling. I swear, I'm going to bury you all in adventure once we get the nod from Jerry.
DM Ezra - Centurion Children Thursday July 11th, 2013 2:13:14 AM
Emrys is able to determine, after looking over Ms. Goode's home from the inside, that the basement may indeed be that old. It looks like parts of the above ground were rebuilt more recently, but are still a couple centuries old.
Low level wizards can be hired to cast mending multiple times to maintain a residence rather then raze and rebuild.
It is likely that the children have not yet realized just how out of time they are displaced.
They did make comments about how much things have changed in a couple of years.
DM Tanner Thursday July 11th, 2013 9:08:41 AM
In the midst of repairing your home and discussing the next course of action, you hear a knock on the front door. Opening it reveals a halfling lass, clad in leathers with multiple daggers at her belt. She smiles, and holds a wax-sealed letter in her hand.
Introducing RobC!
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Thursday July 11th, 2013 9:17:57 AM
The young halfling girl stands at the doorway, rocking back and forth on her feet and whistling - badly. She does not appear to be much of a traveller as no pack can be seen on her back. Strapped to her back though is a well-fashioned shortbow and a quiver of arrows. By her side a rapier and a dagger. When the door opens she smiles broadly and greets whoever she sees "Hiya! The whats-a-name guy said to give this to you. Grof? Gref? Something like that" She holds out a wax-sealed letter, and peers through the open doorway at what lies within.
Anyone who opens the letter Highlight to display spoiler: {It is a recommendation from High Commander Graf, leader of the local WLA.}
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Thursday July 11th, 2013 4:07:51 PM
Hearing a knock on the front door Ariach approaches to see who it is. But then he stops and doesn´t open the door. Of course he is curiously but Vaniim, Emry or Wilma are more suitable to deal with whomsoever is in front of the door.
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 Thursday July 11th, 2013 5:26:03 PM
Tuck pauses in the midst of sweeping as he thinks that he's heard a knock at the door. Placing the broom against the wall, he meanders over to the front door to see Ariach standing patiently in front of it...unopened.
"Uh, Ariach, you have to open the door to see who's there. Unless you can now see through wood."
Tuck pauses a moment and his brow furrows.
"Can you see through wood, Ariach?"
Tuck opens the door to find the musically challenged halfling standing on their door step.
"Graf," he says to her as he takes the letter. He breaks the wax seal with a thumbnail. He reads the letter quickly and looks back at the halfling.
"Alleah, is it? My name is Tuck. The guy standing motionless behind me is Ariach. Please, come in."
If Alleah enters, Tuck will lead her to the sitting room. "Have a seat. Hold on a minute." Tuck walks to the doorway of the sitting room and hollers up the stairs. "Hey! You all come down here! We have a visitor!"
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Thursday July 11th, 2013 7:21:51 PM
Alleah gives a broad smile to the towering Tuck and wipes her feet before entering the house, giving an equally big smile to Ariach as she passes him. Have a seat. Though no doubt meant as an invitation to sit down, she wonders whether the seat would actually fit in her haversack. A quick mental check reveals the sack to be almost full as it is. The seat will have to wait.
She hops up with ease on the chair and dangles her legs, unable to touch the floor. Alleah looks about the room trying to take everything in - or perhaps just casing the place. She lightly taps her hands together while she waits to see what will happen next.
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Thursday July 11th, 2013 10:50:37 PM
The cleric knelt at her prie-dieux in silent meditation.
'Gargul, guide me...there are young people plucked out of time that I feel responsible for and I need to draw on all my training at your temple to help them adjust to their new Wold...' Wilma's prayer to the Lord of Life and Death was interrupted by Tuck's summons from the bottom of the stairs.
'Catch ya later, Gargul...' the young priestess concluded her session and went downstairs, where she saw Tuck and Ariach in the front parlor with a child--no, wait--a halfling female. Wilma smiled, holding out a hand to the newcomer.
"Hello!" she greeted, her sapphire eyes friendly. "My name is Wilma...who are you and how can the Vanguard help you..?"
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Thursday July 11th, 2013 11:41:36 PM "Wilma, eh? Then I have found the right place" the halfling relaxes more in her chair, but still dangles her feet over the edge like a child. "The name's Alleah Lighttouch. I was just telling Tucky here that High Commander Gre... Graf" - she corrects herself with a look to Tuck " suggested I pay you guys a visit. He said something about a group of 'well intentioned individuals working together to benefit the Wold'. He suggested I come along for the ride too. How could I say no? What with him catching me with my hands in someone elses purse and all."
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. d20+15=25 ; d20+10=14 ; Friday July 12th, 2013 12:37:56 AM
(Perception: 25)
Emerging from the kitchen, wearing a apron covered in a colorful, floral pattern, Emrys comes to see who the voice he heard belongs to. With a quick glance at Tuck, he gives a look that says ...'really?! is this a barn? are we cattle?' The bewitching bard rolls his eyes and then quickly regains his composure. He then greets their visitor with a warm smile. "Ahh hello, Alleah is it? Yes, I heard you from the kitchen. So glad to make your acquaintance. My name is Emrys Myrridanmyl. So the Falcon sent you to us. That is very interesting indeed. Would you like some tea, I was just making some?" (Knowledge [Local]: 14, to have heard of this Alleah Lighttouch.)
As he offers their guest some tea, he wonders if the water in his cauldron is about ready to boil. His original intent was to start making potions, but he could ladle a portion into a teapot. By now the water shouldn't have too much of an alchemical flavor.
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. d20+14=30 ; Friday July 12th, 2013 1:25:34 AM
Suddenly, Emrys feels a little uneasy. He doesn't understand it. The sensation wasn't intuitive, it was physical in nature. Like a cold hand pressed against his warm back. The rise of a shiver, the kind they say when someone steps over your grave.
(Sense Motive: 30.) He's certain he doesn't sense any ill will or ulterior motives. Alleah seems perfectly genuine. However, it may be prudent to put away his jewelry that he left strewn across his vanity.
"Excuse me as I see to that tea." With a short nod, he retreats to the kitchen.
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Friday July 12th, 2013 3:05:09 AM
"Welcome Alleah. Nice to meet you." With her winning smile Alleah seems to reach Ariach´s heart. The warrior acknowledges to himself that he likes the halfling. Small as a child Alleah provokes the emotion that she needs to be protected. But then Alleah says something about her hand in a foreign purse and Ariach reconsiders his first impression. There can be no tolerance for thiefery. But looking at his friends´ faces he notices one more time that they don´t complaine. The unintelligible reaction of his friends annoys him more then the fact having a thief sitting in front of him. It will be a lot of work to change their views into the right direction. Work he is willing to do.
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 d20+10=29 ; d20+5=13 ; Friday July 12th, 2013 5:38:20 AM
"Oh..." Wilma said with a sage nod, "...if Commander Graf caught you with your...um...hand in the cookie jar (so to speak), then I take it your skills are of the roguish sort..?" The young priestess sat down in the upholstered chair next to Alleah, using her training to see if she could detect an ulterior motive to the halfling's response. OOC: rolled a 29 for Sense Motive since everyone else in the room seems to be rolling for it. ;D
As she listens to Alleah, Wilma also tries to recall if she's ever heard of the cheerful halfling before. OOC: Voluntary Knowledge (Local) check result is 13.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 d20+9=14 ; d20+12=16 ; Friday July 12th, 2013 8:12:16 AM "It wasn't like that. It's just, the man was being rude to two kids who were only asking him to spare a copper. Someone has to look out for the little people - well, you know what I mean" the halfling says
"Anyway, I just helped lighten his purse to buy these" Alleah reaches into her magic pouch and pulls out two loaves of bread. "A man that size could afford to miss a meal or two anyway. I only take from those who deserve it, and always give the proceeds to those who deserve it more. Well, almost always" she blushes a little and grins mischievously "I think I can be forgiven for keeping the odd souvenir or two. Nothing of real value mind"
"So yes, my talents are of the roguish sort" she finishes
OOC: Since everyone else is.. Sense Motive: 14, Bluff: 16 - though she is speaking the truth
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, Friday July 12th, 2013 9:12:54 AM
Almost as if Alleah stopping talking was a sign the front door opens and a quite put out Vaniime steps through almost running into Alleah as she stands there, a scowl covers her face and there are furrow in her brow.
"Oh! Excuse me. I wasn't expecting there to be anyone standing there.
Looking around she sees the rest of the group, minus Grell, there as well.
I'm Vaniime Elemiire Claudia Nightseer. You are?"
(OOC: Vaniime looks like a pretty typical wood elf, pale skin, slender but muscular, five feet tall and coppery red hair, but then there are a few personal differences. Unlike most of her kin, Vaniime tends to wear her hair quite short, with bangs starting at just above her right eye brow and reaching to below her left eye when they hang free. At the sides of her head, her hair comes just below the ears and her hair at the back hangs to just barely collar length. Another difference is that her bangs are bleached out to nearly yellow and the bottom inch or so, of the rest of her hair, is dyed black as coal. Her attire is more standard being of earthy and wood tones of mottled greys and greens with an occasional brown thrown in. She carries a long bow and a long curved sword and wears studded leather armor that while well made looks like it has seen more than a bit of use. Other than her hair which is the first thing most people notice, the second most shocking thing are the well healed claw scars that run down her right arm from shoulder to wrist. )
DM Ezra - Centurion Children Friday July 12th, 2013 11:31:46 AM
Several teenagers come peeking out from upstairs, a pair of boys and four girls.
The children seemed out of place, they seem hesitant, with eyes that dart about, watching the adults greet the halfling. One of them is missing an arm, another is playing with a small ooze creature.
The eldest boy doesn't smile, and frowns at hearing about the pilfering. He tells the others to go back to their rooms. The one-handed girl holds back, an intrigued look on her face before she too heads back upstairs.
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP63/68 d20+11=21 ; Friday July 12th, 2013 9:02:34 PM
There is a loud clatter of pots and pans banging together in the kitchen shortly after Tuck's yell. A large, bulky warrior emerges smelling suspiciously of bacon. Grinning at Tuck, Grell tries to sneak up behind the monk and put him in a head lock. "Soooo...it's time to start the wrestling match eh? We'll I'm not gonna take it easy on you..." (Grapple=21) His enormous hands wrapped around Tuck's small shoulders, Grell happens to spot the halfing and falters, allowing Tuck the perfect opportunity to escape the hold. "Hey...I didn't know we added *ANOTHER* kid to the mix! Now I'm not going to have enough bacon wrapped chimera steaks for everyone!" Grell turns toward Emrys and flashes a toothy grin. "Boy, I tell you what, you were right about Short Shanks! He had these bad boys on sale and they're so fresh the fur was still soft!"
OOC: Sorry I'm so behind on my CS. I'm hoping to get the revisions done tonight or tomorrow. Thanks!
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 d20+10=26 ; Saturday July 13th, 2013 9:06:21 AM
Tuck smiles as Wilma and Alleah converse.
Looks like we've got a little rascal on our hands.
Tuck slips out of Grell's surprise headlock, and just to show that he can, honks the warrior's nose for fun. (Grapple 26)
"Well, Alleah, I can say that I'd be glad to have someone with a little subtlety to counter Ariach and Grell's stomping around. They're very loud. Why don't you tell us a little about yourself. Are you from the city? What is your motivation for joining us, other than Graf told you to?"
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. Saturday July 13th, 2013 5:16:58 PM
On his way back to the kitchen for the tea, he is greeted by a smiling Grell. 'He ate all of it! that was at least a two day supply,' he thinks to himself. Doing his best to conceal his shock, he replies, "You're welcome, Grell. I'm glad you enjoyed it. Those steaks should make an excellent dinner for everyone." He thinks he just earned Short Shanks place on the map and a long prosperous career; knowing Grell's appetite for meat.
After gathering on a tray all the necessary trappings for a proper tea party (teapot, cups, saucers, etc.), Emrys returns to the parlor horrified to see Grell, obviously in a state of pork-induced intoxication, and Tuck wrestling in front of their guest! Thankfully his unseen servant was holding the tray or he might've dropped it. "Gentlemen! We have a guest! There is no horseplay in our parlor." He instructs the servant to place the tray on the table. "Alleah, how do you like your tea?" He offers the same to everyone present as their conversation continues. When Emrys takes his first sip from his cup, his face turns slightly red with embarrassment. He shouldn't have used the boiling water from his cauldron. He detects a slight Reduce Person potion aftertaste.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Saturday July 13th, 2013 10:59:59 PM "Not a lot to tell actually" the little rogue responds as she places the bread back in her pockets. She gives a wink to the boy and girl she notices peeking from the stairs.
"Born and raised in Dirt City, south of here. Only recently graduated from Picklock College and have to work out what I'll be doing next to help The House. The fancy people might call this a pilgrimage. Me? I see it as a chance to see the world while working out how best I can help it. That's where Graf and I found common ground. Why do a little good on my own when I can be part of a group doing so much more? I'm told that's where we can help each other
She gives a little chuckle on seeing the wrestling match, and scoots forward in her chair on seeing the tea arrive. Alleah looks over the tray carefully. It's all so nice. In any other house half of the teaspoons would already be in her pocket. "I can do it" she responds to Emrys - unused to being waited upon. She pours herself a small cup of tea and then carefully places six spoonfuls of sugar in it. She gives it a stir and then sucks the spoon clean before placing it down on a saucer. "Mmmm"
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP63/68 Sunday July 14th, 2013 11:06:09 PM
Grell gives another look at the new comer...and the wheels slowly turn...no, she's not a kid...she's a halfling! Sounds like she's going to be staying too...
Grell rolls his eyes at Emry's scolding. He does some quick mental calculations...he's definately going to need at least a dozen more chimera steaks if he's going to feed this crowd! Grell listens in to what the halfling has to say and he can't but help but grin. This one sounds like a handful, but Grell has a good feeling about her. Just before he heads back to Short Shanks, Grell turns to Emrys. "Hey, I'm going out for more steaks. You need anything while I'm gone?"
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. Monday July 15th, 2013 12:05:42 AM
Emrys answers, "Something for my headache ... a jug of honey mead wine."
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Monday July 15th, 2013 5:06:55 PM
Ariach calms down after hearing that Alleah wants to make the wold a better place. If this is really her intention she could be a valuable member of the Vanguards. If not....anyway Ariach will keep a sharp eye on her.
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, Monday July 15th, 2013 5:24:47 PM
So, Alleah, Commander Graff sends you to us. That's all well and good, and that has gotten you in the door, but you understand that there will need to be a sort of a test period before any final decisions should be made, either by us or by yourself. I mean we may truly think you would make a good Guardian, but you may have serious reservations about joining us, or visa-versa.
For now absolutely, we would like for you to stay with us and get to know us etc. Just so you know, we all share in the upkeep of house as well as foods and beverages and anyother common needs but we are responsible for our own individual personal purchases and needs. That means that when and if we come into any sort of windfall, we treat the house as if it were one of us. So all rewards are split with the house being an equal party member.
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Monday July 15th, 2013 5:36:41 PM
Wilma smiled as Alleah explained her "cookie jar" situation.
"I am a cleric of Gargul," she replied, "I have no objections to those of the roguish persuasion as long as they are prepared to be judged on how they've lived when they face the Lord of Life and Death in the Lands of Rest." She glanced over at the children, who were retreating back upstairs even as she did so.
"Commander Graf--" Wilma said to Vaniime, holding out the missive bearing the man's seal, "--has highly recommended Alleah, here...I think she'd make a fine addition to our group. She has skills that we don't already have in the Vanguard." The redhead turned back to Alleah and nodded.
"I like what I see and I think we should at least give Alleah a trial period with us," the young priestess advised, getting to her feet. "Now--if you'll excuse me...I am needed upstairs." She strode out of the room and up the stairs, going to where the Centurion Children had chosen to make their hangout: the servants' quarters of the house--specifically, they now occupied what had originally been the Female Servants' Room and the Family Quarters East. Two sets of bunk beds were swapped with the double bed in the Family Quarters so that the girls slept there, while the boys were counter-intuitively occupying the old quarters for Female Servants after emptying the room of all but one set of bunk beds and then moving in a round table and six stools.
Wilma checked the kitchen first, but there was no sign of any of their guests, so she climbed the circular staircase all the way up to the top floor of the townhouse and knocked on the door to the boys' room. She entered after getting permission and found (unsurprisingly) that the kids had, indeed, come there.
"Sooo..." the redheaded cleric said, "...I think it's past time we talked. There are things you need to know...and there are things the Vanguard needs to find out from you if we are to help you find your way in this Wold today..."
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 Monday July 15th, 2013 7:45:42 PM
Tuck flushes in embarrassment at Emrys' admonishment for wrestling.
Geez. I thought I'd gotten away from lectures after I left the academy.
He folds his arms over his chest and tries his best to seem engaged during the rest of the conversation. "I vote "yay" for Alleah to stay," he says in an overly gruff voice. "See if she can keep up with us." A hint of a smile plays at his lips.
DM Ezra - Centurion Children Monday July 15th, 2013 8:09:56 PM Saw Wilma's post calling the kids Centurian Children, thought that sounded just nifty. Started typing something up then realized I wrote it... doh!
Having been the decision maker for so long, Andrei steps forward, I know it's been a while, but we'd like to get back to our families. Or, are you saying they aren't here anymore? Did they move away? It's only been two years. I would expect Uncle Pyotr would still be on the counsel, he was just elected before I left.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Tuesday July 16th, 2013 1:30:06 AM
Alleah simply smiles at talk of a trail period. It would indeed be the best way to ensure the group fits her needs, and Vaniime's explanation of the house upkeep and share made sense
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, Tuesday July 16th, 2013 8:33:54 AM
Ok then Alleah let me show you to the room you will be using. Van then takes her up to Thessa's previous domain.
So this is the Water suite. I will leave you to your unpacking and setting things up the way you would like them. If you hae any questions don't hesitate to ask.
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Tuesday July 16th, 2013 9:04:31 AM
For a moment, the young cleric of Gargul found herself at a complete loss for words--the training at the temple definitely had never included a handy-dandy guide on how to tell somebody they had been lost in time. She drew in a steadying breath, reminding herself that these young people deserved the truth--they needed it in order to start living again.
"Andrei...there is no way for me to tell you this except to just...say it," Wilma explained in a level voice. "Shandresh had somehow managed to exile you all in a place that was not only far away from the Wold's location...but also far away from the Wold's time. You all spent about two years in that place while you were there--but the Wold's time passed away much, much faster. To the Wold, you all have been away for about two or three hundred years..." The priestess' sapphire eyes were dark and compassionate.
"I'm sorry about that," she said sincerely, "But my best guess is that your Uncle Pyotr has been dead for a long, long time. Even Aisildur itself has changed a lot since you left...they still perform the heartseeding ritual but the ancient wards that surrounded that nation are gone, and the Wall of Kaazul no longer has any magic sustaining it anymore." Wilma drew in another breath.
"If you can tell us your family names and where you remember they lived in Aisildur during your time there, I bet we can probably track down where they are and contact them so that we can return you there...if you choose. You're all past the age of the heartseed ritual, but I've heard that--if you choose to accept a heartseed--it will still sprout and you are likely to become as the majority of your countrymen. But--again--this is only if you wish to do this. The Vanguard will neither force you to go if you don't want to...nor will we make you stay here if you choose to return to Aisildur."
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. d20+9=27 ; Tuesday July 16th, 2013 7:26:21 PM
Emrys has the unseen servant gather up the teapot and cups and take them back to the kitchen. He eavesdrops on Wilma's discussion with the children for just a moment before heading back to the kitchen. He has his own daddy issues at the moment and he doesn't want to focus on that just yet. However, the name, Pyotr, sounds interesting to him. He thinks he may recall something about that name (Knowledge [Local]: 27).
"Servant, clean the tea set," he commands. Emrys turns back to his cauldron, which has easily reached a rolling boil by now. Gestalt suddenly appears in the open window with a sizable sprig of mistletoe clutched snuggly in its beak. "Ah excellent, just in time. Now we can get started."
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 Tuesday July 16th, 2013 8:42:16 PM
"Well, I guess that's settled," Tuck says. "I'm going out for a jog. Anyone want to come along?"
DM Tanner Tuesday July 16th, 2013 11:56:39 PM
Andrei is shocked at the revelation given by Wilma. He falters for a response, before bowing his head and speaking toward the floor. "Thank you. Thank you for... everything. I know you risked your lives in saving us, and there is little that we can do to repay you. Still, it is hard... so very hard to hear this. Everyone I loved. Everyone I knew... I will let the others know. Some of the younger ones may understand in time. We will let you know when we are ready to try to move on." He moves to leave the room, then impulsively grabs Wilma's hand and squeezes it against his cheek. "Thank you." His voice cracks as tears well in his eyes. After a moment, he sniffs. "Pardon me. I should go. Thank you, again." Then leaves the room quickly, averting his face so you do not see him cry.
ooc: We are 99 percent completed with the module. Should be able to start tomorrow or Thursday.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Wednesday July 17th, 2013 2:02:40 AM
Alleah looks about the 'Water Suite'. It certainly is much larger than any accommodation she has previously stayed in. "I don't really have anything to unpack. I've found it usually best to keep my things with me at all times. You know, just in case I have to leave suddenly" She pokes through each of the cupboards and drawers to see if the previous occupant happened to leave anything behind.
DM Tanner Wednesday July 17th, 2013 9:26:53 AM LET'S GET THIS STARTED
Your research is successful!
Diplomacy and Knowledge (local): Asking around the city, you learn that House Indevan is one of the oldest, and most wealthy, families in Plateau City. They are majority stakeholders in a variety of shipping and merchant concerns, owning or controlling warehouses and caravans, as well as exclusive trade rights with a number of foreign concerns that allow them to monopolize trade on particular spices and rarities. They are, put simply, loaded.
They also claim to be nobility, which is funny because everyone knows that Plateau City doesn't have gentry! They claim that they are descended from a man named King Froederick the Great - some great high muckety-muck who lived a few hundred years ago. He and his son briefly ruled Plateau City, declaring it the seat of his throne and lordship of most of the plateaus. The fact that his dynasty was deposed after only 20 years shows how successful they were in enforcing that claim.
House Indevan owns a large manse in the ritzy part of town. High walls, guards, the works. Their family mausoleum is in the Plateau City graveyard just outside of town. They make it sound very important to them, but apparently security grew lax after hundreds of years. Thieves broke in and stole the old king's bones, as well as every bit of treasure and magic in the whole building. House Indevan wants it back, and they are willing to pay handsomely to get it.
Knowledge (history) King Froederick the Great was the first and only king of Plateau City - his son was crowned following his death, but was deposed in a popular revolt just two days later. King Froederick, like most kings, had bastard children. One of them was particularly successful as a merchant, and was able to form his own "House," which in actuality is simply a family-owned commercial conglomerate. As a bastard, he could claim lineage to the royal dynasty, but could not have a claim to the throne. The old dynasty died out, but their blood still lies in House Indevan. They use it to put on airs and false pretensions, despite no legal claim to rulership or military might.
After the dynasty died out, House Indevan paid for the remains to be reclaimed and interred in their own mausoleum as 'proof' of their successorship. No one takes them seriously, but they have the economic clout to be a major influence nonetheless.
In no time at all, you learn the location of House Indevan within the city, as well as the fact that their bounty has gone unclaimed!
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Wednesday July 17th, 2013 3:15:32 PM
Ariach is very annoyed that he doesn´t remember the location of House Indevan. He thinks he has known it before- before he left Plateau City to go to the Maplehurst Academy. On the spur of the moment he enters one of the warehouses which are controlled by the Indevan. "Greetings to you! My name is Ariach Gatelatch, member of the Vanguards, who is searching for the house Indevan. We accept the call of the herald helping them to find the lost relict. Where can we find your masters? We need more information to finish that task."
OOC: I am searching for a person who takes Ariach over for the next week.
DM Tanner Wednesday July 17th, 2013 3:38:49 PM
It is perhaps unsurprising that Ariach does not recall the location of the House Indevan manse. Being of 'old money,' they maintain a propriety and aloofness that is not seen in many of the new-money crowd. They attend only the most regal and solemn of feasts and social events, believing that the less people know about them, the safer they are. They are the hand in the shadows, so to speak, and have their fingers in many financial pots throughout the city.
The porter, a thick-necked man with a dim look on his face, furrows his eyebrows for a moment before a slow "Ahhh..." leaves his mouth. "You's be wantin' the main manah. They's ovah in the Noble's Quartah. Corner'a Parade 'n King's Road. Tight-fisted bunch, the lot of 'em. Had to go ovah to delivah package a few months ago, 'n they wouldn't even lets me through the door. Guard took it."
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, Wednesday July 17th, 2013 5:09:41 PM
At somepoint in time Van calls the Vanguards all together in the sitting room for a brief discussion about what's next.
Hey Guys for now any way I think the kids are deciding what to do after the illuminating of what has actually happened to them, So I was thinking as noone has apparentl;y been successful at finding the missing bones of King Froederick the Great, I was thinking perhaps we should offer our services as it were and collect a reward in the process. For the past week I have been trying to ferret out information about the family etc and this is what I have discovered so far. She then relays all the info above.
What do you think?
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Wednesday July 17th, 2013 8:38:58 PM
"I think we ought to see about that bounty," Wilma piped up, "Returning ancestral remains to the bosom of the family they belong to is rather nice for a paying assignment..."
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 Wednesday July 17th, 2013 8:58:48 PM
"Sounds okay with me," says Tuck. "I prefer to render our services to help people in trouble rather than a bunch of muckety-mucks get some old dead guy back. But nothing else seems to be going down, so I'm in."
OOC - Ariach, I'll take over for you. When are you leaving and when are you coming back? Also, have we changed our name from the Vanguard to the Guardians while I was away?
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Thursday July 18th, 2013 12:14:38 AM
Alleah shakes her head "Leave it to some thieves to go and give the rest of us a bad name". She sits idly rolling a silver coin up and down her knuckles. "It couldn't hurt to check out this hou - I mean - family. Any idea what sort of bounty we're talking about?"
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. Thursday July 18th, 2013 12:30:46 AM
Emrys suggests, "We should write an official Vanguard letter and send it by courier announcing our interest in solving their problem and when they can expect our arrival." He also adds, "Just so they know who we are and what our names represent. This is a family that expects certain protocols of noble society. We should at least give the appearance that we understand this. This quest could lead to an unprecedented flow of wealth and prestige for the Vanguard! Just think of all the good we could achieve."
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP63/68 Thursday July 18th, 2013 10:42:24 AM
Grell delicately juggles the rest of the chimera steaks on his return trip from Short Shanks, carefully balancing the wrapped meat. It's true that Emrys would probably consider his personal hygiene to be more than lacking, but when it comes to meat, Grell is fastidious about safe food handling.
Pushing his way through the door, Grell smiles at his friends as he bustles quickly from the sitting room into the kitchen. He catches a couple of blurbs from Vaniime about the proposition of their next adventure and nods his head distractedly. "Yeah, I agree with Van...we should help them get their bones back. Soo...if anybody needs me, I'll be in the kitchen grilling up the steaks. Oh yeah, and Tuck, if you could pick up some ale, mead and maybe some birch beer for the kiddos while you're out on your jog?" Grell looks over at Emrys briefly as he's sliding by on the way to the kitchen. "Hey Emrys...do we have any potatoes in the larder? You can't have steak without potatoes!"
That being said, Grell heads into the kitchen area and begins to delicately wrap each individual steak in bacon. Making sure each steak has the appropriate bacon wrap and that they are all secured well, Grell then reaches into a pouch and pulls out a small bag of spices.
Growing up in the Grell-Illutu household, the young man had gone through a particularly rebellious period where he had secretly (or perhaps not so secretly) scorned most of his mother's teachings. The one thing he had taken to heart was K'nara's cooking lessons. Having been the mother of such a large brood of children, she was a master at working with herbs to make sure the flavors complemented the particular cut of meat she was working with. Much to Lowell and Gunther's chagrin, Grell had spent many an hour in the kitchen learning the ins and outs of meat preparation.
Working a pinch at a time, Grell gently sprinkles the spices on each steak, making sure the coating is even. He then rewraps all of the steaks and stores them in the cool area of the larder while he works on preparing the potatoes...and oooooh yes! they have some squash! Humming an orcish battle hymn about eviscerating an opponent, Grell takes out the knife that Vaniime presented to him at Yuletide and beings delicately pairing the potatoes and squash.
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Thursday July 18th, 2013 3:48:26 PM
Ariach shares Emry´s opinion about the further course of action. He tells everybody about his gathered informations. "I prefer to send a courier to house Indevan. If we all go and visit them they maybe feel threatened. We should avoid that."
OOC: Thanks Tuck!
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Thursday July 18th, 2013 4:02:32 PM
"There's some parchment in the desk in the front parlor, Emrys," Wilma reminded the witchy bard. She had to smile when Grell's focus shifted from his protein to Van and back again. Grell was not the most couth of people, but he knew how to cook a steak properly for sure!
"Well, yes, Tuck," the priestess begrudgingly admitted, "This assignment isn't exactly the 'let's help the masses' sort of job we would all love to have, but we gotta start somewhere."
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 Thursday July 18th, 2013 8:54:55 PM
Tuck nods at Wilma's sagely observation. "Of course. I wasn't trying to say that we shouldn't do it. I'm just complaining to complain. Don't mind me."
On the way back from Tuck's jog, he picks up the drinks that Grell requested. The jog back to the house is slightly more difficult with the added weight.
"No ale for me," he says to himself, remembering the fool he was the last and first time he drank.
A Letter to House Indevan
DM Tanner Thursday July 18th, 2013 10:58:12 PM
The party considers the offer of House Indevan, wondering to themselves how best to approach their potential employers. Go in person? Write a letter? Send an envoy?
SKILL CHECK Knowledge (local) OR Knowledge (nobility) DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Despite not being nobility in the strictest sense of the word, House Indevan is still immensely powerful and influential. They own dozens of properties and employ hundreds of men throughout the Elennian peninsula. In all likelihood, a trusted steward, seneschal, or majordomo would be the point of contact for adventurers interested in the bounty. Actual family members would not associate with anyone so common. }
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, Thursday July 18th, 2013 11:43:45 PM
I agree. I say we write a letter and send it to the house and await a reply.
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. d20+9=20 ; Friday July 19th, 2013 2:05:32 AM
(Knowledge [Local]: 20)
Emrys continues, "It is most likely that we will not meet with the actual family. Our contact will certainly be with a representative, such as a steward of the estate. However, we are also not common folk, we too come from families of great influence and renown. I think it would be prudent to have the letter wax-sealed with an impression of each of our family signets. This will legitimize the Vanguard in their eyes and better our chances of meeting the family. Are we all in agreement?"
To Wilma, he answers, "Very good suggestion. That's very fine parchment in the parlor desk, envelopes too. I can go get my favorite quill."
Hearing Grell's questions and clamor from the kitchen, Emrys concludes, "This can wait until after dinner. I have to say I'm curious to witness Grell's culinary talents. Looks to me that William (the shy, overweight cleric from Maplehurst) had a greater influence with Grell than I had thought."
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 d20+5=18 ; Friday July 19th, 2013 5:26:24 PM
(Knowledge/local=18)
"When something got stolen it is our duty to find the thief and deliver him up to justice! Everybody should know that the Vanguards stand for law and order. Therefore it will be a great chance for us to increase our reputation if we help house Invedan."
Automatically Ariach faces Alleah.
DM Tanner Friday July 19th, 2013 8:47:07 PM
ooc: The consensus seems to be to write a letter to introduce your group. Shall I hand-wave it, or do you want to write an actual missive? I will allow a Diplomacy check through the letter.
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP63/68 Friday July 19th, 2013 8:57:23 PM
Grell looks over at Emrys and grins. "Normally I don't go for carrots...but you had me at honey-glazed!" Casting a side glance at the fey born bard, Grell pauses. "Hey, you don't happen to know the Oji to tli Omi Higgij Kemg do ya? It's been years since I've heard that sung! I never can get that last line quite low enough...."
Orcish translation for those that speak Orcish Highlight to display spoiler: {Ode to the One Legged King}
Grell begins happily singing away in his baritone voice that is pleasant enough in an orcish kind of way (ie loud and boisterous) making sure one of the cooking fire has a nice thick layer of coals, Grell stuffs the cleaned potatoes deep down in the coals and then begins to clean and chop the squash and an onion or two. Adding some special spices to the squash, Grell turns his attention back to the wrapped steaks. In perfect time with the music, he founds his fist roughly into the steaks several times, making sure they are perfectly tenderized.
Heading to the wash bason, he washes his hands thoroughly and then stores the steaks again. He turns to Emry and playfully slugs the bard in the shoulder. "Well...you gonna sing or what?!"
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Saturday July 20th, 2013 8:52:14 AM
Letters to announce one's imminent arrival? Things certainly are different here than in Dirt City.
"If you don't mind, put my name down on the letter as Alleah UnderBarrow. Probably best they don't realise they're inviting a member of the House of Keys into their house" the Halfling girl adds as she sips the last of her tea, avoiding any glances.
"In the mean time, I've always found the best way to get information about a house isn't from the masters, but from the help. They are the ones that know the true workings and gossip. I'm thinking I might make my way to House Indevan and wait outside for one of the servants to go out on a chore. Then strike up a conversation with them to suss out what they know" Alleah hops off her chair and straightens her clothes. "I'll keep an eye out in case I see any of you going to venture in, in which case I'll join you"
With that she gives a smile and a nod to everyone, a quick wave, and she's off.
DM Tanner Saturday July 20th, 2013 3:38:03 PM
ALLEAH Highlight to display spoiler: {You make your way through the crowded streets and teeming masses of Plateau City. Asking a few street vendors and pedestrians for directions leads you to the Noble's Quarter, at the corner of Parade and King Road. You find the residence of House Indevan, a large, walled villa of severe granite with iron shingles. Spikes top the wall and numerous turrets dot the perimeter. The front gate is closed, but a guard in chainmail with a longsword stands near a servant's portal set within the larger door. He notices your approach and raises an eyebrow. "Here for the bounty?" }
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 d20+5=10 ; Saturday July 20th, 2013 11:50:24 PM
Highlight to display spoiler: { "Uh, yes, actually - though I'm waiting on a few friends to arrive first. Would you believe I'm the muscle of the group?" she says flexing her 'muscles', trying to lighten the guards mood "So do you get many here for the bounty? I'm new to this town and today was the first I'd heard of it" Alleah will try and ease her way into a conversation with the guard and gently probe him for information (Diplomacy: 10). She will not enter the premises until the rest of the party arrives however. }
DM Tanner Sunday July 21st, 2013 2:55:41 PM
ALLEAH Highlight to display spoiler: {The guard looks down at Alleah and shrugs slightly, "We've had a few groups come by, but most have been turned away. The House steward, Master Ajah, takes one look at them and waves them away. Typically too desperate for coin or too scruffy to properly represent House Indevan. If you are without your group, I doubt Master Ajah would speak with you."}
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 Sunday July 21st, 2013 7:58:00 PM
"Oh man, you want to write a letter? Since when are we all upper crust and stuff. Whatever, just let me know when we're going."
Tuck retreats to his room until dinner.
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 d20+6=26 d20+6=9 d20+6=25 d20+6=25 d20+6=22 Sunday July 21st, 2013 9:53:19 PM
Wilma went to the desk in the front parlor and--since it appeared that nobody else was going to attempt it--drafted a letter:
To the Noble House of Indevan:
I am Wilma, daughter of the Emerald Dragons K'Nara Illutu and Gunther of the Tribe Grell. I am the resident cleric for the Vanguard, a seasoned group of adventurers headquartered in Plateau City. It has come to our attention that you are requesting aid in the search and retrieval of your venerable ancestor's missing remains.
The Vanguard humbly offer your family our assistance in this matter. Most of our company are graduates of the Maplehurst Academy and are second-generation adventurers whose parents include notable heroes from Plateau City and from the ranks of the Emerald Dragons.
If you wish a reference of our expertise, I refer you to Graf, Commander in the Woldian League of Adventurers, an organization with whom we are allied.
We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Wilma Illutu-Grell Priestess of Gargul Founding Member of The Vanguard
She looked over her handiwork and showed Van the result.
"What do you think, Van?" she asked. "Shall we have a courier go deliver this or what...?"
OOC: as the DM said "Diplomacy rolls throughout", I wasn't sure about how many rolls that was, so I rolled 5 times, getting 26 (natural 20, WOOT!!!); 9; 25; 25; and 22 for results.
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. guidance d20+13=29 ; Sunday July 21st, 2013 10:24:08 PM
(Emrys was going to help write the letter after dinner. As he mentioned in his previous post.)
"Wilma, this is a good first draft, but you failed to even mention the rest of us, or the fact that Graf is one of the six 'High' Commanders of the WLA, which is a big difference than just a regular commander. A fine first draft for sure, but there needs to be a bit of poetic flourish. Don't be so reluctant to be bold or even boastful."
Emrys pauses to clear his mind, hum a tune (casting Guidance, +1 skill check), and then dips his quill in the ink. He doesn't take anything away from Wilma's version, but instead adds to it with all the eloquence the bard can muster. He lists the names of each of the Vanguard, makes mention of their distinguished families and credentials, and assures the family that the Vanguard can restore the bones of the king to his royal sepulcher.
(Diplomacy: 29, for the letter, as instructed by DM Tanner)
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. guidance Sunday July 21st, 2013 10:33:43 PM
(Forgot to mention, about making dinner.)
Emrys answers Grell, in perfect orc, "Of course, I can sing! I thought you were performing a solo. How about singing it as a round? Shall we?"
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, Monday July 22nd, 2013 10:58:37 AM
I would agree with Emrys. If we are presenting ourselves to the "Nobility" we should absolutely name drop. Our parents were very well known in Plateau city at one time. I say we use them to get our feet in the door so-to-speak and then let ourselves do the rest of the talking.
DM Tanner Monday July 22nd, 2013 11:05:22 AM
ooc: I said, "I will allow a Diplomacy check through the letter." I didn't mean that you needed to make several Diplomacy checks representing the persuasive power of each paragraph, but rather that I would allow a well-written letter to enable a Diplomacy check even when you are not face-to-face with the target. Sorry for the mix-up.
Your letter is written, edited, written, signed, folded, stamped, and delivered. (cost: 5cp) You get the feeling that your efforts will not be in vain, for it is the little touches that speak the loudest when dealing with civilized company.
I will give a +2 circumstance bonus to your Diplomacy check for following protocol. Total check 31.
Within an hour, a knock at your door reveals a courier. He is dressed in House Indevan livery, striped white and blue, and bears an insignia on his breast - a white hawk with golden eyes on a royal blue field. Considering the fact that no one else in Plateau City uses livery, or would even think of using livery, this makes him stand out all the more among the crowd.
He touches two fingers to his forehead and gives a small bow from the waist. "Greetings. I am Elor of House Indevan. This is for you. Good day." He hands you a piece of folded paper, sealed with wax. With a respectful nod, he turns and starts back down the street.
Open the letter reveals a letter, addressed to the Vanguard.
To All Those in The Regal Company of The Vanguard,
You and your associates are cordially invited to Indevan Manor, at your earliest convenience. We would be most pleased to speak with you concerning our recent troubles, and services that could be provided to remedy our woes. We would like to extend to you our warmest regards, and the assurance that your efforts would be most generously rewarded.
Master Ajah Steward of Indevan Manor
Success! Unlike the common riffraff who must inquire at the gate, you have an invitation to a private meeting with the house steward. Are there any preparations you would like to make before leaving for Indevan Manor?
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Monday July 22nd, 2013 12:36:30 PM
Highlight to display spoiler: {Alleah simply smiles at the guard. It's possible that he just delivered her a mild insult. That's ok though. "I'll just wait for them across the street then" she says, and gives the guard a friendly farewell wave. When she sees what looks to be a courier leave the premises she follows in hot pursuit, hoping to find out some tidbit of information about the House from him. Surprisingly the courier ventures straight to the House of the Vanguard. }
"Well THAT was uneventful!" Alleah advises on her return to the house "The house is walled up tight, and they've got well armed guards there. Though the guards aren't willing to share too much information other than we best look good. They can't be too hard up for gold either. I'm liking the sound of this bounty already" She will happily relay the directions and description to those present.
Once done, she will excuse herself to her room to change into her courtier clothes.
DM Ezra - Nothing Important Monday July 22nd, 2013 2:14:26 PM
A group of four men, stroll down the street, their clothes mark them as outsiders. They appear to be chatting amicably with each other as they continue down the street, and out of sight.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Monday July 22nd, 2013 2:20:54 PM
Looking out the window Alleah notices the outsiders below. "Competition perhaps?" she wonders as she finishes tying her bodice. Black and velvet, it is kept for special occasions.
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 Monday July 22nd, 2013 8:39:18 PM
Tuck washes his face and hustles downstairs.
"I'm ready," he states. "I don't think that I should speak. I'd probably say something offensive."
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Monday July 22nd, 2013 8:42:27 PM
Ariach takes several minutes to prepare for such an exciting occasion. He gives his armor a quick polish. He shaves his face and combs his hair.
I hope that Grell and Tuck mind their manners. I'll need to speak with them later about behaving in polite society.
He marches down the stairs, ready to impress.
"I am ready."
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Monday July 22nd, 2013 11:45:44 PM
Wilma was happy that Emrys read her draft and added his own flourishes--there was nobody better suited to it.
She was very excited when the courier delivered a reply from the Indevan household, and dug out the only clothes that she deemed prop for a face-to-face meeting with people in the upper echelon of society...
...her prom dress.
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP63/68 Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 8:19:43 AM
Grell finishes his singalong with Emrys with a new found found appreciation for the bard's singing talents. Very few non orcs can pull off the last stanza of the Oji to tli Omi Higgij without doing serious damage to their vocal cords. Emrys had pulled it off without a hitch. Clearly there was more to the uppity dude than Grell had previously thought.
Before he knows it, the dinner is ready and served, and Grell is sitting back at the table relishing in the digestion of his feast. When the courier arrives, Grell is relaxing at the table with his pants partially unzipped.
He leaves the formalities to those best suited to them and heads back to his room to prepare for the impending mission. Staring at the broken window, Grell vows that when he returns he will find another kitten. Gathering an extra quiver of arrows and his favorite dagger, Grell heads downstairs in his armor, ready to go. Spotting Wilma in her dress, Grell shudders and shakes his head vehemently. "NO WAY! If you think you're gonna get me to dress up in some frumpy hoity toity dress clothes, you have lost your mind! If we have to dress up just to TALK to them, then just tell them I'm sick or something. Let me know when it's time to fight." Hands on hips, Grell is clearly not in the mood to argue about the point.
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. guidance Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 8:53:59 AM
"Vaniime, wouldn't Grell look absolutely glorious in his new shirt, belt and pantaloons? Oh, and I took the liberty to polish your boots. They shine like mirrors!"
Emrys looks ravishing as usual. He put together an ensemble that looks not only fancy and noble but also adventurous; along with the crest and colors of Culverheart.
DM Tanner Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 1:49:20 PM
Freshly groomed and coiffed, the Vanguard depart for Indevan Manor. The city is especially bustling today, and you make your way through the teeming masses toward the Noble Quarter. Several times you hear tradesmen and washerwomen talking about House Indevan and their missing bones. Speculation is rampant, both concerning the circumstances behind the theft, and the reward offered by the rich and mighty family.
You find the residence of House Indevan, a large, walled villa of severe granite with iron shingles. Spikes top the wall and numerous turrets dot the perimeter. The front gate is closed, but a guard in chainmail with a longsword stands near a servant's portal set within the larger door. He notices your approach and raises an eyebrow. "Here for the bounty?"
Presenting him with your letter, he raises his eyebrows and bows from the waist. "Pardon the interruption, honored guests. This way, if you please." He leads you through the massive gates into an expansive courtyard, filled with numerous fountains, walkways, flower beds, and topiary. All manicured to perfection. You see additional guards in livery and chain patrolling the grounds, and servants of all stripes hurrying from door to door, using the courtyard as a thoroughfare. It all just screams money. The guard leads you about halfway toward the main entrance, before hanging a right and approaching a large building with window panes for walls. It is an atrium, filled with exotic plants. Sunlight streams down into the room and washes the chairs and conference table at the center. "Please make yourselves comfortable, Master Ajah will be here in a moment."
The table is lined with a variety of foods and beverages. A plate heaped with fruit slices, a collection of dainty pastries, a bowl of mixed nuts, and several small boxes with a variety of smoking snuff stand next to jugs filled with iced lemon water, mint tea, and sweet vermouth wine. Enjoying yourselves for a few minutes, you hear a latch click and the door opens again. You see a dark-haired, clean-shaven man of approximately 35 to 40 years old, wearing a finely-tailored courtiers outfit. He wears a large, iron ring on his thumb displaying his mark of office. (Picture) He smiles and touches two fingers to his forehead. "Greetings, I am Master Ajah, Steward of Indevan Manor. I trust you are the Vanguard. I was most pleased to receive your missive. If you would, have a seat and let us discuss our current predicament."
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 5:22:14 PM
Ariach is impressed with the fortifications and security of the Indevan house. "My my, this is quite fun. Don't you agree, Wilma?" He looks at the priestess but quickly glances away, a bit of color rises on his cheeks.
Too nervous to eat, Ariach paces in the room until Master Ajah presents himself. Ariach casts a stern look at Alleah, Grell and Tuck as if to say, "Behave yourselves!"
Ariach bows to Master Ajah before taking a seat as suggested.
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 5:26:39 PM
Tuck casts an appraising eye on the guards as they enter. "I could whoop him. I could whoop him. I'd definitely whoop him!" he says to himself.
In the waiting room, Tuck helps himself to fruit and nuts. After Ajah told them to sit, Tuck finds a comfortable looking chair and does just that.
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 9:11:44 PM
Wilma suppressed a sigh.
"Grell," she said evenly, "I just know that both Mama and Papa told you that the Wold is made up of all kinds of people. We will be presenting ourselves at our best, yes...but nobody says you have to change yourself in a drastic nor a permanent way for them. We're visiting people who have fine things and will expect you to respect them and their position in Plateau City. After all--Grandpa Grell expects anyone calling on him as the tribal chief to respect him and act as the tribe would act...at least while they're seeing him. Same thing here. Nice clothes, controlled manners...while we're seeing them at their home. No more...no less."
She leaned over and slapped the back of her brother's head.
"Now go upstairs and change into the stuff Emrys got ready for you!" the redhead said emphatically, scowling. It was amazing just how much she looked like their mother, K'Nara, when she scowled. "No one expects you to be fancy-dancy forever! Just make a good impression!"
The priestess was courteous and demure for the group's arrival at the House of Indevan, bowing her head in acknowledgment of Master Ajah's salute.
"Good afternoon, Master Ajah," Wilma replied graciously, "May I present the Vanguard...?" She introduced each member of the party by their name, using her hand-carved staff to indicate each person in turn, saving herself and Grell for last.
"...and this is Grell, my younger brother..." the teenage cleric introduced, poking the slightly-slouching young man into a straighter posture, "...you would be hard-pressed to find a warrior with strength and stamina such as Grell possesses! And I am Wilma Illutu-Grell, cleric of Gargul." Once again, the redhead bows her head and then delicately perches on the edge of a nearby chair.
"Pray, Master Ajah...do tell us how the Vanguard may be of service to the House of Indevan...?"
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, d20+6=14 ; Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 10:19:44 PM
Vaniime gets ready for the meeting and heads out with the rest of them. She tries not to get prickly with the guard and his snidish remark and just hands him the invitation.
When lead into the atrium, she let'sloose a small sigh as the natural light and plants make her feel much more relaxed. Pouring her self a glass of minted tea, she looks around at the others, including their newest addition and nods thinking to herself. This is one good group of people.
Finding a place where she can observe the upcoming procedings, she smile knowing that Wilma will take the lead on this, leaving her to watch and interpret.
Something about Master Ajah doesn't quite sit right with her, which doesn't make much sense to her as she has never to her knowledge met the man, but she would watch and try to figure out what ulterior motive he might have in all this. Sense motive DC 14
DMTanner - Vaniime does not detect any ulterior motives.
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. guidance d20+10=29 ; d20+12=28 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+14=29 ; Wednesday July 24th, 2013 12:07:22 AM
(Knowledge [Nobility]: 29, to use proper etiquette with stewards employed by nobility. Diplomacy: 28, turning on the charm.)
As they are led into the Indevan Manor, Emrys tries to make note of the architectural design of the house and the courtyard. (Knowledge [engineering]: 10) However, he is unable to recall the style or even the designer. He gives a look to his friends as to say, 'check this place out!'
As they wait for Master Ajah, Emrys helps himself to some of the vermouth wine. As he sips from the wine, to calm his nerves, he takes stock of everything in the room and tries discern every bit of information he can from it, including the ring on Master Ajah's thumb as he arrives (Perception: 29).
Soon as Master Ajah enters the room, Emrys puts his glass down upon a tray and rises to greet their host. Emrys gestures the proper response to the steward's greeting with a little added flourish. He then waits to sit until their host does so as well.
"Master Ajah, we were equally pleased to receive your invitation. We are honored you made time for us."
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 d20+15=30 ; d20+16=35 ; Wednesday July 24th, 2013 1:27:21 AM
Alleah gives a slight nod to the guard and smiles once again to him as she passes in.
She gives a whistle of appreciation at the style of the atrium. Whoever lives here sure does have money to spare. The little rogue helps herself to a pastry and tucks in in much the way a proper lady wouldn't. She notices Ariach's glare and simply smiles back. "I might save some of these for later" Alleah says with her mouth full, as she helps herself to two more pastries. She stuffs them in her pocket, along with something else (Perception check to make sure noone is looking too hard: 35. Sleight of Hand: 30 to pocket one of the small snuff boxes).
She does so just in time before the steward arrives. Alleah stands and gives a slight bow to the Master but says nothing. Realising she still has some pastry on her face she wipes it away with the sleeve of her bodice, only to realise the flour stain contrasts her lovely black velvet top. She spends the next few moments trying to brush it clean. Not the way one usually impresses the upper echelons!
OOC: The next time Alleah levels she will be taking a level as an Obsessed (think kleptomaniac). Placing her in a room full of nice, rich things it's in character for her to try and pocket a little something
DM Ezra - Giggling Ghost Wednesday July 24th, 2013 1:23:52 PM
Each of the Vanguard finds something rustling in a pocket. Reaching in they find a small envelope. Opening the envelope reveals a golden ticket. The ticket wiggles and twists, casting off golden rays of reflected light.
You are hereby invited to the Giggling Ghost in celebration of the great and mighty heroes of Blackbird Lake! To journey to the Giggling Ghost, tear this ticket in half. Time has no meaning in the Giggling Ghost.
DM Tanner Wednesday July 24th, 2013 1:30:31 PM Alleah Highlight to display spoiler: {You swipe one of the snuff boxes in the blink of an eye. It is made of heavy white marble. On the lid is a blue shield of lapis lazuli with an ivory hawk's head. It weighs 3 lbs.}
He smiles a warm, charming smile at Wilma and steps toward her. "May I?" He takes hold of her hand and kisses it in a chaste fashion. "It is not very often that clergy visit the Manor. Occasionally a priest of Ffloy will come to witness a contract or bless a venture, but they are never so young and lovely."
Emrys can perceive that House Indevan is wealthy, indeed. Not only that, but they have been wealthy for quite some time. The manor is built of mortared granite blocks, giving it the strength and endurance of a fortress - compared to most villas that simply have wrought-iron fences and timber construction. The grounds are decorated with topiary and a well-cultivated garden - things that require time and attention and cannot simply be bought.
Emrys also notes that the iron ring on his thumb is a combination of badge-of-office as well as a signet for sealing letters. It denotes him as not only steward of Indevan Manor, but chief steward among all of the stewards of the various holdings of House Indevan.
Master Ajah pours himself a glass of lemon water, and takes the seat at the head of the table. He drinks and clears his throat. "The matter at hand concerns the earthly remains of King Froederick the Great, First King of the Plateaus. He lived approximately 400 years ago, and is the noble progenitor of this great house." He drinks again and furrows his eyebrows. "At least that is what the more zealous members of House Indevan espouse. In reality, he was a military strongman who seized power in a coup and ruled the lands surrounding the city by edict alone. He died 20 years after taking the throne, and his son was deposed the day after the funeral." He picks a fig from a platter and takes a bite, using the uneaten half to punctuate his words. "The king had a bastard, as most kings do, and that bastard founded House Indevan. He was a brilliant merchant and moneylender, and his descendants have wielded great economic power, but have no legitimate claim to rulership." He eats the remainder of the fig and brushes his hands. "The remains of King Froederick were interred in the Indevan family mausoleum, in the Plateau City graveyard. Four days ago the guards from the mausoleum stumbled into the manor, bruised and beaten. They had been subdued by masked assailants. A search revealed that the remains of the king had been stolen. Curiously, many valuable burial vestments and treasures on the other bodies in the crypt were undisturbed. They only wanted the king."
He takes a drink. "The chief constable and his men have scoured the mausoleum and graveyard, but have not discovered any clues to the whereabouts of the remains or the identity of the thieves. Our own magical examination of the guards showed that they were truthful. The constable is likely still there now, keeping away gawkers."
He looks at each of you, weighing you in his mind. "I am prepared to offer 35,000 gold pieces for the return of the remains. You will also have salvage rights to the jewelry and vestments on the body." He sits back and laces his fingers on his lap. "Is this agreeable?"
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 Wednesday July 24th, 2013 5:34:46 PM
The price seems reasonable to Tuck, though he has little care for money except how it can help to enhance his abilities or support those less fortunate. The story piques his curiosity. Why did they just take the king's remains? Quite intriguing.
Further details would need to be brought forth, such as how many attackers, whether the Vanguard might have a look at mausoleum, what else was on the body when it was taken, and what spices they used on their nuts. They were quite tasty! Tuck is confident that Wilma or Emrys would venture such questions and in a way much more delicately than the monk could.
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Wednesday July 24th, 2013 5:40:33 PM
Ariach nods along politely as Master Ajah relates his story. "I am so very sorry for your troubles, Master Ajah. Please be at ease. We will uncover the late King's remains for House Indevan. This I swear!" He pounds a closed fist into the palm of his other hand making a loud smack.
He looks to Wilma to continue the dialogue with Master Ajah, to iron out the details.
Such a well-spoken lady. And so radiant! How lucky I am to be in her presence.
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Wednesday July 24th, 2013 6:48:21 PM
Wilma's eyebrows twitched at Master Ajah's show of courtly manners, but she otherwise didn't react. She did, however, listen very carefully to the story of King Froederick and how his remains were stolen. Once the steward was finished speaking, the redheaded cleric asked her own questions:
"Four days ago, you say? Has nobody attempted to demand a ransom?"
"Have you any knowledge of rival factions that may have taken the Indevan ancestor in order to provoke the family..?"
"Do you know what the state of the remains were, sir? I mean--is King Froederick relatively-intact--such as a desiccated body or a whole skeleton--or has time reduced his state to a more...um...loose or even powdery existence?"
DM Tanner Wednesday July 24th, 2013 8:29:17 PM
As Tuck ponders further questions, Master Ajah turns to him and smiles. "Please feel free to speak. There are other talents beyond a honeyed tongue. There were two verifiable attackers. If there were more, they went unseen by our guards. Yes, of course you may see the mausoleum. I would expect it to be the very first place you visit. Items on the body included a burial shroud, funerary robes, and a variety of jewelry."
SKILL CHECK Knowledge (arcana) DC 22 Highlight to display spoiler: {Master Ajah has a detect thoughts spell currently active.}
He turns to Ariach. "Your enthusiasm is most appreciated, brave warrior."
He turns to Wilma. "I am afraid no ransom notes have been forthcoming. We initially supposed that a necromancer was responsible, but it makes little sense when a skeleton is a skeleton regardless of their occupation in life. Yes, he was a skeleton. His tomb was quite secure, and all that remained was a desiccated husk with bones inside. House Indevan has many rivals, and more than a few enemies, but they are all merchant houses and trade consortiums. If they wanted to hurt us, they would do it with coin, not our family crypt."
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. guidance d20+12=17 ; d20+15=26 ; Thursday July 25th, 2013 12:14:17 AM
(Knowledge [Arcana]: 17, bah! Of course if he is, a saving throw is required) (Perception: 26)
Emrys listens intently to everyone in the discussion. Something does strikes him as odd about the offer. He waits for the appropriate moment and then asks, "Master Ajah, your offer is very generous. However I have one question. Wouldn't the family be bothered about us claiming their ancestor's personal effects?" He certainly would feel outrage if someone had taken his mother's belongings from her grave, so this aspect of the offer presents a moral dilemma for the bewitching bard.
As he says this, something else puzzles him, but he can't put his finger on it.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Thursday July 25th, 2013 2:12:45 AM
Alleah's eyes practically glaze over at the thought of 35000 gold pieces. Of course, it wouldn't be all hers, but still.
"Have you commissioned any other groups at the present time to also undertake this quest?" she pipes in. Another thought then crosses her mind "Just out of curiosity, how would one be able to determine the King's skeletal remains from the remains of another? What would stop another less honest group from simply returning you a body they dug up from somewhere else?"
There is no malice in this question. Alleah intends to fulfil the quest honestly.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 d20+9=29 ; Thursday July 25th, 2013 4:42:44 AM Knowledge Arcana: 29. Oooooh
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, Thursday July 25th, 2013 7:40:16 AM
Vaniime listens and thinks a bit then waits for a lull in the conversation to insert her questions.
Is there anything special about the timning of this theft? Is there an important date or function related to or dealing with the "Kings" remains? Are there any cermonies, etc. that include the king or the mausuleum? What might happen to your house should these remains be brought back to animation and caused trouble? Or what if someone could prove that the remains were actually not those of the King?
I mean why would someone steal a bunch of bones unless they knew they could damage your house somehow through that theft? I just don't see the reason.
DM Tanner Thursday July 25th, 2013 11:38:13 AM
Master Ajah turns to Emrys. "While the remains hold great symbolic importance to House Indevan, the funerary vestments and jewelry have not been seen in at least 350 years. We can only assume that they are there since they were seen the last time the tomb was opened. It may be nothing but rust and rotted rags by this point, it may still be quite valuable. Regardless, House Indevan plans on making quite the public display once the remains are recovered, and will provide new materials for a re-dedication of the mausoleum."
He turns to Alleah. "Several groups have taken up the offer through the announcements of our heralds. But you, dear company, are the first to receive a private commission. I'm also offering you a higher compensation for your time and talents, since you are obviously of higher caliber." He takes a drink of his lemon water. "As for frauds... when a group returns the remains, it is presumed that they will also recover some of the funeral garb and jewelry, which will verify their claim. If not, magical scrutiny... very thorough magical scrutiny... will be used."
He turns to Vaniime. "There does not appear to be anything special about the timing of the theft. We have no anniversaries, no large business acquisitions or mergers, nothing that seems connected. If, gods forbid, the remains were to be animated, then it would of course cause a scandal. But then retrieving the remains would be all the simpler, wouldn't it? The scoundrels would make themselves known rather than hiding."
He sighs in annoyance. "I'm being completely honest with you when I say that I have no clue, not even the hint of an idea, why the remains of King Froederick were stolen. Many have suggested that it is to embarrass us, blackmail us, lower our morale... but other than forcing us to spend a minor amount of gold on a matter of maintaining House pride, nothing is being accomplished by the theft."
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 d20+5=16 ; Thursday July 25th, 2013 1:31:41 PM "A minor amount of gold?" 35000 is minor?!?" Alleah can't help but be amazed.
"I think we can help you, Master Ajah" the halfling girl responds with a smile, that quickly fades "It's just... the Vanguard currently have some orphaned children in care. Should anything happen to us while recovering the King's remains, the children will be without any means of support. Would it be an imposition for your house nurse to care for the children in our stead? Our house is well stocked, and it would only be until our imminent return of course. Why, not only would Indevan house pride be restored with the return of the King's remains, but consider the good will caring for these children would generate with the populace!"
(Diplomacy: 16. Alleah really does care for those worse off)
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Thursday July 25th, 2013 5:09:53 PM
OOC: Thanks Tuck for taking Ariach over!
For Ariach it seems that 35000 goldpieces are an enormous amount of goldpieces for that task. But although he would search for the King´s remains without getting payed, he knows how much good you could do with so much money. He keeps silent and waits until his friends have finished to ask their questions to Master Ajah. Eager to see the mausoleum Ariach cannot await the end of the conversation. "Let´s go to the mausoleum. Maybe we can find a hint of the evildoer."
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 d20+7=10 ; Thursday July 25th, 2013 5:45:42 PM
Ever so slowly, a perplexed look creeps over Tuck's face. His eyes squint and his nose scrunches up as he tries to figure out how Ajah knew what he was thinking. He looks quite silly.
Is he psychic? Wait, did he just hear me think that?! Wait, did he just hear me think THAT?!
His eyes open quite wide as mixed emotions and thoughts jumble about in his brain. He shifts uncomfortably in his chair.
Standing quite suddenly, he clears his throat. "Excuse me, but I believe I'm going to get some fresh air. Goodbye."
Quickly, he is through the door and heading back towards the entrance gate to get away from the spooky Ajah.
DM Tanner Thursday July 25th, 2013 5:50:25 PM
Master Ajah turns to Alleah, a small quirk at the corner of his mouth. "Yes, it would be an imposition. Our servants have duties keeping their time full and productive at Indevan Manor." He regards the halfling for a moment before continuing. "Would an advance be sufficient to cover your... domestic responsibilities... while you are away? It would not be difficult to pay you 1,000 gold pieces now, and 34,000 upon your return with the remains. With that money you could hire a very competent nurse."
He turns to Ariach. "Yes, please do. You will find the chief constable and his men still there. We are hoping that you will find something that they have not."
He watches Tuck go out the door. "Perhaps your friend needs assistance. I wouldn't want him barging into the kitchens when he is looking for the front door."
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 d20+1=11 ; Thursday July 25th, 2013 5:52:44 PM OOC: Wilma's Knowlege (arcana) sucks with an 11. Besides...I thought that you needed to do a Spellcraft check if you're determining a magic effect, right? Yes? No?
"Our apologies, Master Ajah, if our persistence about the why's and wherefore's of this matter are trying your patience," Wilma said glibly, "We are merely trying to be as thorough as possible." Her sapphire eyes roamed the faces of her compatriots.
"And I agree with Alleah about the children," the priestess added. "We only recently returned from a mission and have not had time to establish a governess for them. We appreciate your assistance on that front while we see to the retrieval of King Froederick's remains, so your offer of that advance payment is certainly satisfactory..." She pauses a moment.
"Can you recommend where we may ask after the proper person for such a position?" Wilma asked. "We have never even had to think of this type of situation before. I am sure that you know all the right sort of people who could qualify..."
DM Tanner Thursday July 25th, 2013 6:25:16 PM "Just a moment." Master Ajah looks at the floor between his feet and begins moving his mouth without making any noise. After a pause, he begins again, indicating that he is having a conversation with someone not present in the atrium. A minute later, he nods and looks up. "I have arranged for a nurse to watch your children. Her name is Goodwife Delvecutter, a dwarven woman, the wife of our head groundskeeper. In lieu of an advance, she will care for the children for as long as is needed and her wages will be deducted from your bounty. She has been informed of your address, and will arrive tomorrow morning." He smiles, satisfied at having solved a problem. "Is there anything else?"
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. guidance d20+12=14 ; d20+14=16 ; Thursday July 25th, 2013 10:39:36 PM
Emrys' eyes widen a bit when arrangements are made for the children ... so quickly, efficiently, and magically. "Very impressive, Master Ajah. We can now fully concentrate on the problem at hand without distraction or worry. We thank you." Emrys pauses to look for approval from everyone else, and then he answers with a grin, "If everyone is in agreement, then let the hunt begin."
(Emrys is so impressed, it distracts him from everything else. Knowledge [arcana]: 14, and Perception: 16)
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Friday July 26th, 2013 12:36:01 AM
Alleah gives a bow of appreciation to Master Ajah. He has been a gracious host.
"Yes, let's go"
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, knowledge arcana d20+7=11 ; spell craft d20+7=26 ; accident d20+7=9 ; Friday July 26th, 2013 7:50:27 AM
Vaniime gives Alleah, Wilma, and Emrys nods of approval as she keeps an eye on Master Ajah's body language, there is something just not quite right going on here but she can't quite put her finger on it. knowledge arcana d20+7=11 ; spell craft d20+7=26 Though perhaps it is just a bit of nerves. It would not be very good for their new carreers to be unable to complete this task satisfactorily. In fact it might put a serious crimp in future jobs. And Yet, she is pretty sure, with her family here, that if they put their full efforts into doing something there is little that they can't accomplish.
As she hears what seems to be the winding down of the conversation, she comes back to the present and adds her final comments as well.
"Master Ajah, We appreciate your invitation and your time and you may rest assured that The Vanguard will do its utmost to get to the bottom of this situation. Please keep us informed of any developments you might also hear about."
DMTanner - You detect no current magical effects.
DM Tanner Friday July 26th, 2013 8:48:49 AM
ooc: Since there seems to be some confusion, let's clear things up. I have italicized the applicable uses.
Knowledge (arcana) Identify auras while using detect magic Identify a spell effect that is in place Identify materials manufactured by magic Identify a spell that just targeted you Identify the spells cast using a specific material component
Spellcraft Identify a spell as it is being cast Learn a spell from a spellbook or scroll Prepare a spell from a borrowed spellbook Identify the properties of a magic item using detect magic Decipher a scroll Craft a magic item
You can identify a spell as it is being cast using Spellcraft, but you use Knowledge (arcana) to identify a spell that is currently in effect.
DM Tanner Friday July 26th, 2013 9:17:39 AM "Thank you, Vanguard. We hope to hear from you soon with good results." Master Ajah rises and rings a small bell on a table near his chair. A footman opens the door to the atrium. "Willem will show you out. Good day." The footman leads you across the immaculate gardens, back to the front entrance of Indevan Manor. The guards respectfully bow as you pass, having been show that you are far above the common riffraff that pass by their door on a daily basis. You stand once more in the streets of Plateau City, in the Noble's Quarter, having received a lucrative commission from one of the most powerful families in the Elennian Peninsula. Now to head to the graveyard to investigate!
End Scene 1. All PCs are awarded 540xp each for skillfully contacting and contracting with Master Ajah.
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