DM Zach Monday August 5th, 2013 11:34:10 AM
First Regimental Command Headquarters, Thankasis Citadel, on the coast between Rhaedell and Ham City. Thankasis Citadel is equal parts awe-inspiring and foreboding. Its massive, impregnable walls made of dark granite stand on a sheer rock cliff overlooking the Defile's Channel. The Citadel, as it is most often referred to, is approachable only from the south, as all other sides of the Citadel end with a sheer 300ft drop into the Defile's Channel.
The outer portion of the Citadel was created with little more in mind than how best to utilize the defenders martial prowess against any invaders. It has high walls with numerous arrow slits, and many siege weapons mounted throughout. The interior is much more practical, balancing the needs for storage, sleeping quarters, and training areas as well as various areas to properly handle any diplomatic or strategic matters as they may arise.
This has been your home for the last 3 years. Each of you are in your own private room, much better than the open barracks you spent the first 30 months of training in, preparing for the Regimental formation in the Citadel's famed Hall of Heroes. You each have about 10 minutes until muster and it is about at 5 minute walk from the Graduates Rooms to the Hall of Heroes. Being days away from Graduation, this will most likely be the Formation of the Fists Ceremony!
--------------- Please describe your character and your actions. Also, please note you are expected to wear your Academy Dress Uniform to the muster. Typically students do not wear their weapons unless attending a training session that requires them.
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15, (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper Monday August 5th, 2013 12:06:18 PM
Cameron finished the final polish on his boots and slipped his feet into them. For a Halfling this would be absurd, to wear boots. But the Fist expected uniform ranks of soldiers, that and growing up with Uncle Morgan for more than half his life had made him appreciate shoes. There was nothing more painful than helping out at the forge and having a stray spark ignite the fur on top of your feet. It had hurt for weeks and all of the other dwarves wondered why he couldn't just man up and deal with it. Uncle Morgan had understood though. It wasn't so much the physical pain, but the thought that the fur might not grow back and he would lose just that much more of his heritage. But it did grow back, thick as ever and he had learned to appreciate boots and their protective qualities. He checked himself in the small mirror in his room and liked what he saw. A dashing young Halfling with curly light brown hair, a pencil thin goatee and mustache framing his mouth, and a determined look in his deep green eyes. Today he would be named to his Fist more than likely, and he didn't want to be late. He smoothed his dress uniform and patted the small dagger tucked into the small of his back. Father would approve. He never went totally unarmed, even to bed or so Cameron had been told. Cameron grabbed the beret that was part of the dress uniform and dashed from his room eager to be on time for this muster.
OOC No armor worn, dagger only and it is tucked in the small of his back, as concealed as he can make it. I took liberties with the dress uniform since I have no idea what it looks like. Cadets wear berets, right? hint hint, nudge nudge.
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" Monday August 5th, 2013 12:40:00 PM
testing
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday August 5th, 2013 12:59:18 PM
Daemar, called "Tinker" by everyone, looks about the Graduates Room he was assigned and settles his shoulders looking at the job well done. Workbench with locks and manacles is dusted neatly. Bed made so you can bounce a copper piece off the taut blanket, chest of clothes neat with a place for everything and everything in its place. Armor stand with leathers, crossbow, bolts, and urgosh with a backpack already packed and only needing to be slung over a shoulder to move out.
He glances at the mirror of polished metal on the back of the door. A clean young dwarf warrior in Academy Dress Uniform looks critically back. Only the awful beret that looks like an overcooked pancake flopping on his head mars the overall effect. Flecks of rust streak his dark chocolate hair and trimmed beard, framing a chiseled bronze face set in a permanent frown of concentration. Yes, he looks like he's ready for anything! Tucking his personal lockpick set in his belt pouch with his other immediate odds and ends, he steps into the corridor, and has to wait until little Cameron the Halfling dashes past.
Tinker trots to keep up with the exuberant fellow, his mind considering the best way to get out of that most recent set of manacles...
...................
ooc: Tinker has on his person everything listed under his Explorers Outfit under Equipment in his PC Sheet.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Monday August 5th, 2013 1:09:31 PM
Pru finishes her braid at last, and ties it off neatly with a piece of unobtrusive black thread. She stands, smoothing her braid back over her shoulder where it falls past her hips. Her hair has never been cut.
She looks around her room, which, as usual, is neat as a pin and ready for inspection. All in all, her training with the Fist has been enjoyable. She's met some interesting people, and much of her time was spent in classrooms, learning to better understand and control her magic.
The physical training on the other hand--well, that had been a nightmare of rain and mud and people yelling at her. No matter how hard she'd tried, she just couldn't keep up, and the sergeants had been merciless. She'd been worried, for a time, that she'd wash out and have to leave. She'd made it through at last, though, and if she never had to hear a sergeant yell Move it, Gundle! again, it would be too soon.
She glances down and smooths her tunic. Her dress uniform is not, alas, an actual dress. She's still getting used to her Mailed Fist uniform; still trying to reconcile the views of the sergeant (There are no sissy skirt-wearers in my unit, Gundle!) with her mother's strongly-held beliefs (Only a harlot would dress in men's clothes!). The tunic is as long as the regulations allow, falling all the way to her knees, but it's not a skirt, and it still feels odd.
She moves to the little shrine she set up next to her bed, lights a candle, and begins a prayer. This time, it's Domi she calls on, for the strength and courage to meet whatever challenges lie ahead of her. The prayer is heartfelt, but short. She does not want to be late. Scarcely two minutes after she lit the candle, she extinguishes it again.
She brushes (largely imaginary) dust from her tunic and trousers one final time, takes a deep breath, and heads out the door.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Monday August 5th, 2013 2:18:10 PM
Linden usually attends the muster promptly, but is clearly not much of a morning person. Linden Brereburr's 23 year old centaur's blue eyes are alert. His pinto markings, red hair and bright blue eyes give him a youthful charisma. The cleric isn't physically intimidating, his lean form does however make him fairly graceful. In addition to his Academy Dress Uniform, the cleric wears his holy symbol of Flower. This was non-negotiable. He WILL wear it, citation and disciplines regardless. He is usually one of the first to muster, he is a bit of an insomniac.
Everyone knows this orderly and pristine look at the muster is in stark contrast to his normal disorganized and shabby look (think college student during morning classes). His reluctance to carry weapons has done nothing to impress the Fist. He nods at all of his fellows as they show to muster.
Carver AC 18, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 Monday August 5th, 2013 3:29:04 PM
Carver, adjusted his tunic and poofy hat, what use a beret was, is beyond him. Probably someone thought it looked good, but even that was a lie as far as Carver was concerned, but no one asked him, so he kept quiet. Looking down, he made sure his hooves were polished and waxed to a high gloss, he had standards to maintain, even if they were his own. Reaching over to a rack he with drew the Caparison with the Mailed Fist embroidered on it. He used it to cover the scars that marred his palomino coloring, over which he strapped on his saddle bags. He planned to leave most of his weapons and his backpack in the room. He slipped his hands into his polished gauntlets and with that he decided he was as ready as could be expected. Opening the door, he saw the others headed to the great hall, he made a quick detour to the temple and after saying a very short prayer he galloped across the courtyard and sedately entered the hall, not far behind the others, but before the time muster was called.
NikolaiAC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) Monday August 5th, 2013 3:47:12 PM
Nikolai opens his eyes from his Meditation when his Sand Clock chimes, the little sand bucket tipping over and hitting a bell, then popping back and starting to fill again, letting him know it is close to Muster Time. The Sand Clock was a present from his mother who had grown concerned about his habit of loosing track of time while meditating. Once he is assigned into a Regiment and shipped out, he'd send it back, but he would miss it.
Taking his uniform off the hanger he quickly put it on. This he did with utmost precision in mere minutes, thanks to his father spending months getting Nikolai ready for the Fist's Initiate Training Camp. His father, a veteran Fist commander in the Wolf Regiment, would have pulled strings to get him into the Cavalry, but Nikolai convinced his dad that it was best that he be placed where his training commanders felt best for him. Alexi agreed, with a grin and a chuckle and a slap to the shoulder that nearly knocked young Nikolai over. His boy was a grown man now.
HIs first weeks in training went as expected and was actually fun. Not the work part, but watching all the new recruits bumbling around, especially a hafling. Much of their training was quite a challenge for the height-deprived members. He was born into the Fist and grew up around Fist activities and had seen many Enlistment Classes come and go so he knew what to do and how to do it. But actually doing it proved a challenge. He saw several drop out early, more later on. But that was the way of it. He knew he'd make it and he felt confidence in his classmates that persevered as well, even in the hafling.
He eye the room one more time. The weapon's rack on the wall was neat, his bed flawless, the room spotless. He closed the door and turned his 5' 8" half-elven frame down the hall. Others were moving out to the Hall of Heroes as well. Passing an opened window the sun hit his golden hair. A smile cracked his face. His family would be arriving soon to see his graduation. HIs friends would get to meet his father and mother, both veteran Fist members. He had made sure not to boast about them, but on Graduation Day, he would not be able to contain himself.
OOC: wearing his uniform, carrying no gear.
DM Zach Monday August 5th, 2013 4:49:23 PM OOC: Please note, for my sanity, please list your name in your header as well as your character name. It makes things much easier for me. Also, during combat I would really appreciate it if the basics such as HP and AC were included as well. Thanks for humoring me... you all rock. And as for the uniform, I did not really envision a beret... but hey, whatever the majority thinks. The academy uniform is a very dull grey however, with black trim and brass buttons.
Posts look great thus far.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) Monday August 5th, 2013 4:57:59 PM
OOC: updating header as requested.
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Monday August 5th, 2013 5:40:31 PM
OOC: Updating Header
Bliss is up early, like always. He loves the earliest morning hours, the way the grey light makes everything seem soft and new, the way the dark of night turns into dim. In the early hours, Bliss has his tools arrayed out in front of him. An observer might think he is comparing them, polishing them, maybe meditating on his craft. In reality, a conversation is going on in the privacy of his thoughts. And he learned very quickly and very early to keep such dialog to himself.
He holds a large knife next to a similar but much smaller blade.
Mama! Mama! the little knife says. Mama, where are you going?
Don't worry, sweet one. Your people will take care of you. I have to go. Bliss passes the larger knife over the other tools, to one side, as if the larger blade is motioning to them.
The little blade hops over fast to the large blade and snuggles close to it. Mama, I miss you.
Be a good boy. Do what your teachers say.
I will mama. But it is not fair! Bliss actually murmurs the word, "fair."
Little edge, we obey even when it is not fair.
Yes, mama. I do, mama.
Mama. Mama. Mama. Mama. Mama.
Yes, child.
Mama. Mama. Will you play with me? Racing?
The mother knife agrees, and the two race back and forth on the hard cool floor.
Soon the horn sounds assembly, and Bliss knows that the muster is soon to start. He puts away his tools and dresses quickly in his dress uniform. He forgets to put on his seldom-worn beret, though. He sets his gear out on his bed, but takes none of it with him. As quietly as a mouse, he rushes to the Hall of Heroes. He forgets to put on his seldom-worn beret. At the hall, he stays in the back, still quiet.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) Monday August 5th, 2013 6:04:30 PM
OOC: bets on whether the Sorting Hat will be a beret? I'll toss 1 gp in the pot that it WILL be a beret.
:)
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15, (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Monday August 5th, 2013 6:24:55 PM
OOC Updating header Heh I wanted a foofy Musketeer hat but thought that was a bit over the top for cadets. And the beret stuck. I can't believe you all put it in even though you hated it. I guess it pays to post first. 8). The power of suggestion. I'll wager a gold that we get attacked at muster and Pru has to defend us all because she is the only one actually prepared.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Monday August 5th, 2013 7:56:53 PM
[OOC: Naw, we'll be fine. You've got your itty bitty knife. :) Besides, it's not like Nikolai can leave his hands behind.]
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Monday August 5th, 2013 9:41:27 PM
OOC: Hey, us Centaurs are always armed, plus I brought my Gauntlets.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Tuesday August 6th, 2013 12:00:56 AM
OOC: .....um, okay. Beret. Whatever. Linden will be sure to promptly lose it in the first combat. And continually lose them when replaced at the Quartermaster's. ;)
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14, hp 12/12 Tuesday August 6th, 2013 10:01:38 AM
William's room is sparse, as he's not much for fancy adornments. His passion is his books and casting materials... However, he does keep a few of his better targets from crossbow practice, as those are a source of pride. After packing up his personal material, he leaves it in a bag near his entrance, intending on retrieving it before heading out on his first mission...
He checks his dress uniform, wipes away any dust and admires the sharp creases, shiny buttons and bright badges... Once he's content, he leaves the room and looks for his fellow class mates before heading to muster... He's determined to make his uncle Joshua proud, a brave knight who recently retired to great acclaim. His uncle's Lord gave him this title of Courageous, noting that the young William stood up to bullies and troublemakers who often outweighed him. They could tell that the boy would show no hesitation when facing "bad guys" and would rather go down fighting than tremble in fear...
William is a human of average height, blue eyes and blond hair. He's dressed in explorer's garb, though his outfit and spellbooks make it clear that he's a wizard...
Bliss (Cayzle) d20+5=25 ; Tuesday August 6th, 2013 10:02:21 AM
On the parade floor of the Hall of Heroes, Bliss stands next to Cameron and whispers, "Hey, wanna see a trick?" He waits for the taller halfling to glance his way, and then shows off his latest bit of nonmagical prestidigitation.
Bliss takes a coin out of his pocket and spins it across his knuckles, flipping it over the back of his index finger, middle finger, ring finger, pinky finger, and then making it "disappear."
Sleight of Hand 25! Woo hoo!
The short halfling pulls off the trick effortlessly and even looks surprised himself! "Pretty nifty, huh?" he asks Cameron.
OOC: Friends, does your character have a nickname, or does he or she prefer the whole thing?
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15, (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Tuesday August 6th, 2013 12:48:34 PM
OOC Thats really up to the rest of you guys for me. Nicknames aren't made by the ones they name.... and like it or hate it they often follow you.
DM Zach -- Morning Muster Tuesday August 6th, 2013 12:55:38 PM
Every person on the Citadel, save for the on duty sentries are begin gathering into the Hall of Heroes. The Hall of Heroes is even more imposing than the rest of the Citadel. It holds the history of Mailed Fists most honored and glorified members along its walls. Some are honored with paintings, others tapestries, and some of the most well known, even with large statues of their bust.
From the most senior instructor to the greenest recruit, all are present. Everyone gathers around for a moment, speaking to each other, and passing time as they will, whether through small talk, parlor tricks, or checking their uniform over for the 100th time.
After a few moments the lead hand to hand combat instructor, Master Sergeant Redforge, an older greying Dwarven Monk, walks to the front of the Regiment and bellows, "FALL IN!!!"
Everyone complies and falls in to their respective platoons. Everyone having a place. Your Platoon, the one that will graduate in 3 days time, has approximately 100 recruits remaining. Not bad, considering 3 years ago it had over 400. As it stands there are almost 1500 students in the massive Hall of Heroes.
Once everyone is ready and in position, Redforge bellows again. "REPORT!!!"
The Platoon Leader instructors respond in turn, "All present or accounted for, Sir!"
After receiving the reports, Master Sergeant Redforge about faces and stands at attention for a moment.
Moments pass, and the Hall of Heroes remains utterly silent.
Before long the sound of boot heels on stone floor can be heard, echoing through the Citadel, getting louder and louder. After what seems an eternity Field Marshall Major Pavillon Nuterius and his predecessor, Former Field Marshall Major Thankasis Fokos emerge. Thankasis stands of to the side, inumerable medals adorning his uniform. Pavillion moves to stand in front of Redforge they salute and say a few words before ending the salute and Redforge walks around to stand behind and to the right of Pavillion.
Field Marshall major Nuterius calls out, "At Ease!"
Once the shifting has ended he begins again. "Graduation is upon us, it is time for the Fists to be formed, and the final exams to begin. We will detail the final exams in a moment, but first, time to Form the Fists. As is customary, 4 graduating recruits will be place with a senior level sergeant who will be the Fist Leader. Two fists will form the 10 man team that will compete in each of the exams. The Fists will be as follows:"
With that Master Sergeant Redforge pulls out a long sheet of parchement and begins calling out names and who they are assigned. After going through a few teams he calls out, "Recruit Daemer, Recruit Gundle, Recruit Komonov, Recruit Linden, you are with Sgt Trimmack." gt Trimmack is a human male that stands at 6'3" 215lbs of pure chiseled muscle. His skin is dark as ebony aside from a few red scars that trace his skin. He speaks with an air of confidence, but is not cocky. He speaks as a man who has faced overwhelming odds and came through the victor. He beckons the group to him and says, "I look forward to working with each of you. What are your names and what are your strengths?"
Recruit Steelshaper, Recruit Carver, Recruit William, Recruit Bliss, you are with Sgt Helmbane. Sgt Helmbane is a dwarven male that stands at 4'8" 205lbs. He is very gruff and does not speak much. He comes across as very gruff and mistrusting. He is obviously a lifelong soldier that is new to command. He beckons each of his recruits to him in a slightly different manner. "Get over here, now!!! Names!"
It is then said that Sgt Trimmack and Sgt Helmbanes Fists will be working as one team for the Final.
Bliss (Cayzle) Tuesday August 6th, 2013 1:12:29 PM
Bliss scrambles to put away his coin and hop to. It took him three solid years to learn to obey, without question or hesitation, but he has his lessons down by now. He hurries over to Sgt Helmbane and shouts ...
"Recruit Bliss, sir!" he pipes up.
(Bliss's shout is pretty much like a normal person's speaking voice.)
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Tuesday August 6th, 2013 2:08:26 PM
Hearing her name called, Pru walks over to Seargant Trimmack, moving briskly, but not hurriedly, just as she's been taught.
When he asks for names, she replies, "Recruit Prudence Gundle, sergeant. Elemental sorcerer."
[OOC reply to Cayzle: Pru's friends call her Pru. Most of the Fist call her Gundle. She answers to both. :)]
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday August 6th, 2013 2:08:41 PM
Tinker trots over to Sergeant Trimmack, for once sparked out of his reverie for mechanical objects by looking at the others in his Fist, his 'family'. A Human, Half-Elf, Centaur, and a Dwarf. A mage, monk, cleric, and rogue. Interesting. He looks over at the Fist that Sergeant Helmbane is commanding and they will be working together. Two Halflings, a Human, and a Centaur. A mage, archer, and two armored warriors. Tinker shakes his head, not understanding the reasons for how they were split but pleased that he knows everyone in the two Fists.
"Daemar, called Tinker, Rogue specializing in traps and devices, Sergeant!" Tinker stands straight, his head frozen facing straight and not looking at the Sergeant.
...................
ooc: shared PC Sheet with anyone who has the link. Everyone should be able to see now.
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Tuesday August 6th, 2013 2:49:48 PM "Recruit Carver, Sgt Helmbane. Calvary specialist, Sir." Carver doesn't shout it out, but does say it with gusto in a voice that is very deep, so it carries without much effort.
ooc: Carver is his nickname, and the only name anyone seems to know him by.
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15, (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Tuesday August 6th, 2013 2:56:11 PM
Cameron marches to his new Fist, just as he has been taught. When names are asked for he replies " Recruit Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper, sergeant." Unlike the other crew he was not asked for specialty so he doesn't include the information. He looks around at his Fistmates and is glad that Bliss is one of them. He doesn't act like a halfling all the time, but neither does Cameron. A Centaur and a human as well, all shapes and sizes it seemed in this Fist. Finally a Dwarven Sergeant and an obvious veteran to boot. They were in for a whole lot of determined leadership if what Cameron knew of Dwarves was still true in the Fist.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14, hp 12/12 Tuesday August 6th, 2013 3:35:41 PM
Hearing his name, William smartly marches forward, turns and ends up in front of the sergeant. Saluting as he was taught, he almost stops as he actually has to look down rather than up at his new platoon leader... However, he shows no hesitation and barks out, "Recruit William, Conjurer Wizard, Sergeant!"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) Tuesday August 6th, 2013 10:01:31 PM
Nikolai eases over to where his Fist is forming and waits his turn to announce himself. He snaps to attention and with measured force he states "Recruit Nikolai. My strengths are in my nimbleness and my fists, Sir!"
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Wednesday August 7th, 2013 3:49:38 AM
Linden doesn't really have a nickname that he knows of, but he answers to pretty much anything.
The young centaur has a straight posture and moves to formation. The cleric looks up and down the line for his 'friends', which are few among the group. Formation has never been his 'thing', but hey, three squares, a place to sleep and people to talk to... isn't all bad.
He doesn't slouch, but doesn't really 'snap' to attention either. With a loud but chill voice, he responds. "I'm, like, Recruit Linden Brereburr, Cleric of Flower, dude, er, sir. My strengths, um, are negotiation, morale and healing... um, yeah, lets go with that." He smiles, but seems genuine. His eyes bright, a bit bloodshot, but bright none-the-less, staring straight ahead.
DM Zach -- Duality Amongst Sergeants? Wednesday August 7th, 2013 9:09:39 AM
Sgt Trimmack nods as each of his recruits give their information... that is until Linden. In a a flat even tone that is neither loud nor soft, the Sergeant addresses Linden. "I am not a dude. My rank is Sergeant and I prefer to be addressed as such, though Sir is acceptable. Also, if your strength is in negotiations then might I suggest speaking clearly, perhaps dropping the like's, er's, um's, and what not." When the Sgt speaks he seems to be neither angry or upset, but demanding of respect with his actions more than his words.
"You all will be expected to move into your Team Quarters where you will live for the next few days until Graduation. The 10 of us will all be living together until graduation. After that, the two fists will go their separate ways. As of now there is nothing more to be done to day. You can consider yourself on liberty until tomorrow morning, at which time we will meet in regards to the up coming exams. I will be at the Last Assignment tonight and will buy the first round. Dismissed."
-----------
Sgt Helmbane has a slightly different approach for his Fist. He goes off on a expletive filled tirade until he is red in the face then stops. From what you can pull from between the expletive's, he is a Sgt, not a sir, because he works for a living, if any of you disrespect him the way Linden just did Sgt Trimmack, he will throttle you within an inch of your life, and you are all to report promptly to the Last Assignment at 2000 hours for "roll call". He then stops away which you assume to mean you are dismissed.
Bliss (Cayzle) d20+8=25 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=11 ; d20+8=20 ; Wednesday August 7th, 2013 10:57:11 AM
Bliss grins when he realizes that he has SO much time and no jobs to do. He goes up to Linden Brereburr and says, "Lindy! Lindy! Hey Lindy! Can I have a ride? Come on, please?"
If the centaur agrees, then Bliss clambers up and says, "Lindy, pretend I'm your little brother and you are giving me a ride on your shoulders." Bliss climbs up on Linden's shoulders. Then he says, "Lindy, pretend we are in a dungeon far away, and we found an under ground hall, and we have to check out all these mysterious statues for traps and secrets!"
If Linden agrees, Bliss will direct him to the different statues throughout the Hall of Heroes, looking at each one carefully for traps and secrets from a loftier vantage point than he himself can manage.
Perception checks to search: 25, 28, 11, 20.
As they move about the hall, Bliss teases Linden. "Clop clop clop! Lindy, the monsters are going to hear you," he whispers loudly.
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15, (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Wednesday August 7th, 2013 11:20:50 AM
Cameron smiles as Bliss drags Linden off to play time. Something about that guy makes you believe that childhood can last forever. Cameron heads back to clear out his kit and move it to the new team barracks. As he walks he wonders at the question Sgt Trimmack had put to his recruits. What was his role in the Fist? Diplomatically he could probably win most debates, he had been trained to use his natural charm and small stature to seem nonthreatening and that made him able to diffuse awkward situations and get people to trust him. He had also been trained, both by his Uncle and the trainers here at the Citadel to use his short stature to stay out of most opponents reach while still being able to hit them effectively. Finally he was a dead shot with a bow. He could hit almost any target the trainers presented him with, moving or not and even for his small size he could hit where it hurt hard enough to overcome any disadvantage due to his size. But what was his real role? Arriving at his room he packs his few training uniforms and prepares one for tomorrows final. He moves into the shared barracks and greets his new team mates and gets to know them (sharing anything in his background section). He also cleans and polishes his gear and makes sure everything in his kit is ready for tomorrow. At 2000 hours he reports to the bar in training dress, not fully sure what to expect. He ate a good dinner though and took a couple of slices of bread back to the room with him for just before this meeting. If their sergeant were true to dwarven form, someone would be leaving the bar tonight being carried by his teammates. Cameron did not plan to be that person.
OOC Sheet updated for the Underfoot racial trait ( yay more AC). What is Alemi's caster level for that boon from the GG? Will we be using it for finals or saving it for a real fight... assuming there isn't a real fight as part of finals. Cayzle comments -- per Jerry, for us it is the minimum level to cast the spell, so what, 11th.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Wednesday August 7th, 2013 12:21:46 PM Team Quarters
Pru glances around at the rest of the Fist to which she's been assigned. All men. She looks over to the other Fist that will make up the other half of the team. Also all men.
Pru had lived in shared quarters when she'd first started training, of course, but she had lived with the handful of other female recruits in the small Women's Barracks. After that, of course, she'd been assigned to a private room.
Now, though, she was expected to live with nine men. Unseemly didn't seem to do it justice.
And yet, what choice did she have? She'd signed on, sworn an oath. If she'd been too naive to understand all that her oath had entailed, well, that was on her. It would be difficult, but she'd adjust. She'd have to.
By the time she snaps out of her short reverie, the odd halfling boy and they very relaxed centaur had already departed. She looks over and smiles at the half-elf called Nikolai. "Hi," she says. "I'm Prudence Gundle."
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14, hp 12/12 Wednesday August 7th, 2013 2:56:57 PM
William snaps off a final salute once the profane tirade ends and he's glad inwardly that no member of his future squad would disrespect his leader in such a way as he just witnessed. After they're dismissed, he thinks, "Time to meet my future squadmates, and I hope we've got a solid group" as he walks over to Bliss, Carver and Steelshaper.
He recognizes them from his earlier training and offers his hand to each as a friendly form of welcome. If they're going to watch each other's back, then they need to start building trust and get to know each other better.
Bliss (Cayzle) Wednesday August 7th, 2013 3:13:39 PM
Bliss invites William to come along to see the Hall of Heros with him and Linden.
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+9=27 ; d20+10=13 ; d20+10=11 ; d20+10=15 ; Wednesday August 7th, 2013 3:49:29 PM
Tinker listens closely and when dismissed, comes to 'attention' and snaps a salute before jogging back to his private room and gathering his stuff. A chest, armor rack, and backpack isn't too heavy for the dwarf as he trots to the Team Quarters and selects a bunk on his new Fist's side of the room. Chest to the foot of the bed, arming rack at the head by the wall, and backpack on the floor. (Sleight of Hand DC 27 Highlight to display spoiler: {(and a dagger under the pillow.})
"Gundle, Nickolai", Tinker nods to both, and another to Linden when the Centaur arrives from his fun-filled frolic with Bliss. "Don't know much about you three, but I know Bliss, Carver, and Cameron from working in the Armory. They are good with their hands. I'm Daemar, but most people call me "Tinker" because of my unnatural curiosity for gnomish clockwork contraptions."
Tinker spends his afternoon with picking his favorite simple lock, but gets into a bit of trouble when he puts himself in a set of manacles. It takes a looooong time to get out, and he only has time for a quick splash of water before reporting to the Last Assignment for an anticipated round of ale.
................
Current Equipment: Explorers Outfit equipment only
Move chest with all other equipment - heavy load does not slow down a dwarf
Disable Device; Simple Lock (DC20) 13,11,15, all fail. Take 10 auto succeed
Escape Artist; manacles (DC30) take 20 fails (only 27). Tinker needs someone else to unlock manacles to get free.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Wednesday August 7th, 2013 4:49:53 PM
[Second post, for roleplaying only.]
Pru turns to smile at Tinker. "We have met," she says in her careful schoolgirl Dwarven. "You asked me to hand you a tool."
[OOC: Were we actually told which of the team quarters we'd been assigned to? It's not in the post, but is it one of those minor details that happens offstage?]
DM Zach: Sorry, you would have been told which quarters and having been here for 3 years, you also would have known right where to find them. You can RP this, or just say it happened off stage.
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Wednesday August 7th, 2013 5:16:22 PM "Yes, Sargent. Understood Sargent." He replies after the Sargent finishes his tirade.
Carver heads back to his quarters and gathers up his gear, as he looks it over, he notices that the majority of it is weapons... He lays his armor and shield across his saddlebags, and then uses the sheath he has for his lance, straps on his scimitar, shoulders his bow and straps on the greatsword. He shoves the rest of his gear in the backpack and with a quick look around makes sure the room is ready for it's next occupant.
He trots over to his newly assigned quarters, finds them a bit cramped, but finds a spot to unload and organize his gear and most of all his weapons. He uses a wall area and hangs them just so, readjusting them until he is satisfied.
He spend most of the afternoon packing and repacking the gear in his bags until it's packed perfectly. After dinner call, he makes sure his uniform is as close to perfect and his hooves are polished as well.
He heads out to the meeting so he will arrive a quarter hour early, remembering a quote from his parents. *Early is on time, on time is late, never be late.*
DM Zach -- Duality Amongst Sergeants? Wednesday August 7th, 2013 5:50:22 PM OOC: Please note, that at any time, any of you may make Knowledge rolls about whatever you like. Knowlege History or Local rolls for the Field Sgt Majors, or Knowledge Local to see if you remember hearing anything about the two Sgt's. If you want, you can ask around and try to gather more information. You all would have, at one time or another trained, probably extensively with MSgt Redforge. The two Sgt's are not instructors here and would have been recently promoted from their former Fist and just been given charge of these two new fists.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) d20+1=2 ; d20+1=17 ; d20+1=9 ; d20+1=9 ; Wednesday August 7th, 2013 8:40:37 PM
"Sure, I guess your right, sir." He can't resist a smirk.
(Unskilled Knowledge checks, 2, 17, 9, 9)
When Bliss drops or rather bounces by, Linden lowers himself to a height which the halfling can climb up on his own. "Blissard, you know dude you can get a riiide. Most centaurs don't consider it proper etiquette, or whatevs, but 'kay. We have a stigma." He points to his saddlebags and his black hooves. "Like, we can handle it and stuff." He begins a trot, then with a slyness, surges to a gallop, forcing the halfling to hang on.
He comes to an abrupt stop, putting a hand up to stop Bliss from falling. "Far out. A dwarf who tinkers with gnome toys. Weezy man."
He begins to think about the trio he's been placed with. Prudence, Nikolai and Tinker.
He'll spend a few minutes writing a letter to his parents, describing what is going with graduation and which group he has been placed in. The letter consists mainly of doodles in the margins and half complete poem. --------------------------- Here are some past interactions with the other Fist members, cus Linden is an open book, and his emotions are rarely hidden. He has helped everyone, seriously, everyone, in the Mailed Fist. (Think merit badge wearing Boy Scout)
He nods to Carver in passing, and rarely speaks with him, but being another centaur, he shows respect, even though he is older than the young paladin.
He's said hello to Tinker several times, but still doesn't understand a dwarf who fiddles with gnomish mechanical things. His conversations often grow technical and boring, but oddly interesting. He knows things about mechanisms and pulleys, dials and gears, that couldn't possibly fit into Linden's head.
Bliss he clearly likes, even calls him a friend. They talk a lot, but Bliss chitters like the birds in the Whistal Trees at home.
Prudence is a mystery to him. He knows her, but she's very proper in his view. Cute for a human, but a tad scary. The cleric steers clear, most times, of the elementalist. When he does speak to her, he calls her Prudence, because he's not familiar enough to call her Pru, but Gundle isn't fitting either.
Cameron is an interesting fellow. He's a halfling paladin, which seems a bit strange. But the few times Linden's attended sparring matches as a healer, and Cameron is in attendance as a fighter, he has rarely had to heal the halfling. This scares Linden a bit. Little guys are supposed to physically less dominating, but the halflings in the Fist are a different breed.
William is human and a wizard. Linden doesn't know much about him, but he's bookish.
When he first met Nikolai, he thought he was an elf, but soon found out otherwise. He is contemplative and quiet. --------------------------- Linden tends to spend most of his time, when possible, outside the compounds of the Fist school. He likes the underdogs and loners within the group and will talk with anyone who will talk with him.
Bliss (Cayzle) d20+8=27 ; Wednesday August 7th, 2013 9:09:47 PM
"EEEEEEEE" says Bliss (holding on easily with a Ride check of 27). "It's like flying again!"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) Thursday August 8th, 2013 12:11:13 AM
Nikolai salutes appropriately when dismissed. A scowl crosses his face when Bliss asks Linden for a ride. 'How rude'. he thinks. He shrugged. 'He'll let the guy know how rude it was if he was offended. Oh well.'
He is about to turn to leave when Gundle aproaches him. "Hi, Miss Gundle. Good to see you again." replies back, a little awkward. He looks around a little, not knowing what else to say, or what else Gundle expected him to say. Tinker helps break the ice somewhat and Nikolai chit-chats a little longer. "I have a sand-clock I believe was made by gnomes," he states, and describes how it works.
Soon, however, he gets annoyed by the shinnanigans of Bliss and Linden in what he strongly feels to be hallowed halls, a rather disrespectful display of disrespect, and excuses himself to go pack up his things and move them to their new quarters.
The move does not take long and after he insures his old room is spotless, he closes the door for what had been his home for a couple of years. In his new home, he picks an empty spot and stows his gear in the footlocker at the foot of the bed.
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15, (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) d20=18 ; d20+2=13 ; d20+8=17 ; Thursday August 8th, 2013 2:19:10 AM
Once Cameron has his things stowed he is able to watch and talk to the others. He sees Prudence s look of concern when she gets to the room and realizes she is the only girl in a room full of boys. (Sense Motive 18) Looking around he notes that there is still a corner bunk. Since it has two walls already a curtain could be rigged in front of it fairly easily. " Um, Prudence? Do you want the corner bunk? We could rig up a screen or something so that you can change without having to be in the same "room" with us if you want. Tinker It wouldn't be hard to set up would it?" When he see's Linden writing home he gets quiet for a few minutes, wishing he had someone to write to. There was Uncle Morgan. Maybe after the finals were done. After dinner he heads straight to the Last Assignment. Once there he listens hard and asks a few questions to try and get some background on their two new Squad Leaders.
Perception 13 to overhear conversations Diplomacy 17 to try and ferret out any tidbits
OOC Using the skills I have since you can't make untrained Knowledge checks
Bliss (Cayzle) Thursday August 8th, 2013 11:14:30 AM
After the fun is done, of course, Bliss brings all his gear to the muster at 2000 hours.
DM Zach -- First Time at the Last Assignment Thursday August 8th, 2013 1:20:39 PM
The group goes about their own business in different ways. Some horse around, others try to get to know their news Fist mates, while others practice and hone their skills. Regardless of how they spend their free time, they eventually all make their way into the new team barracks. They are nice, with each person having his own bed (do Centuars sleep standing up like horses?), foot locker, and wall locker. Some ideas are thrown about in regards to make Pru feel the most comfortable.
Cameron heads to the Last Assignment before the rest of the group in an effort to gather some information. This is his, along with the rest of the students first visit to the Last Assignment. It is typically for the instructors and full members of the Mailed Fist only, though it has always been a tradition that soon to be graduates are allowed to visit once they have been named to a Fist.
The Last Assignment is, just like the rest of the Citadel, made of stone. It is rather, simple, with no frills, but at least it has seating for Mercenaries of all sizes. There are three bartenders, all human, in uniform no less, serving drinks to quite a large number of patrons. Most are students that are easily recognized from your soon to be graduating company. There are also several instructors and quite a number of newly promoted sergeants at the bar as well.
Cameron can hear several conversations, though none are of any particular interest and certainly none are about his Sergeants. Most are about how the other students plan for their Team to be the Honor Team at the end of this years Exam. There is also quite a bit of rumbling about what this years exams might entail. Cameron will have to ask around to any number of non-students and see what they know. he is able to find table that will have enough seating for his entire Team if he wishes to hold it.
Nonetheless, it is only about 30 minutes until 2000 and his Sergeants and Teammates are sure to be coming soon.
OOC: Also, if you make some checks, please detail specifically what they are for.
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15, (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Thursday August 8th, 2013 1:45:37 PM
OOC I thought I did. Oh well. I am trying to get any information on the Sergeants. The Dwarf Mr. Uptighty pants and the Human, Mr Respect. Students would probably be most comfortable talking to me, but I'll need to ask other instructors to get any real info since these guys were just promoted from the field. So I do, hopefully diplomatically. Perception 13 to overhear conversations about my 2 Sergeants Diplomacy 17 when I start asking direct questions about my 2 Sergeants
DM Zach: I was referring to some knowledge checks. I gave you some information about your checks, but didn't want to assume you we're going to start asking instructors about your Sgts without you saying it.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14, hp 12/12 d20+4=5 ; d20+4=8 ; Thursday August 8th, 2013 3:36:56 PM
William agrees to go visit the Hall of Heroes and chats with the others about their new sergeants, what the future might hold, etc.
When he has a chance, he asks around about their new squad commanders (their background, motivations, likes/dislikes, habits, etc.), as well as trying to remember any rumors he might have heard too... (Know Local = 5; Know History = 8)
Finally, he makes sure he's where he needs to be at 20:00...
Bliss (Cayzle) d20+15=18 ; Thursday August 8th, 2013 3:52:18 PM
Bliss is glad to chat with William as they visit the hall.
Later, at the tavern known as the Last Assignment, Bliss looks around for his new teammates. He tries to find the two paladins, Cam and Carver; and the wizard, Will. He sees Cam, and follows him around until it is time to sit down.
Bliss does not say anything as he approaches and then follows Cam, just following quietly, and closely, but not too closely. If Cam talks to him, Bliss says in a quiet whisper: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Ssshhh! I'm pretending I am your shadow!"}
Stealth check to walk quietly behind Cam: 18
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15, (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) d20+2=21 ; Thursday August 8th, 2013 4:13:30 PM
Cameron spots Bliss, but doesn't say anything right away. From the corner of his eye he watches. Was Bliss copying his every move? He was, wasn't he? Cameron doesn't turn but whispers over his shoulder, Highlight to display spoiler: { " What the heck are you doing back there?}
OOC Thing is, none of us probably have those knowledge skills. I will when I become a bard, but knowledge skills, by definition, can not be used untrained. If we don't have ranks, we have to come up with more invasive ways to get information, like moting any previous unit insignias on their uniforms and looking for matching ones in the bar. Which is an awesome idea that just occurred to me...
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15, (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) d20+2=10 ; d20+2=11 ; d20+2=5 ; d20+2=21 ; d20+2=3 ; d20+2=11 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=23 ; d20+8=14 ; d20+8=14 ; Thursday August 8th, 2013 4:21:27 PM
While Bliss follows him around, Cameron wracks his brain trying to remember distinguishing marks from Sergeant Helmbane and Sergeant Trimmack's uniforms. They might still have old insignia on them that would help Cameron track down their old teammates and find out some info on them.
Perception 10, 11 to have seen and remembered the Sergeant's unit insignias. Perception 5, 21, 3, 11 to notice any matching insignias in the bar . Diplomacy 28, 23, 14, 14 to ask some questions without offending the soldiers if he does find old fist mates. ( though with some of those perception checks, I am not sure he could find the floor if he threw up.)
Because he is short,and he knows Bliss will have an idea how to do this better, he whispers to Bliss what he is looking for and asks him to look too.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Thursday August 8th, 2013 4:27:21 PM
Pru spends some time chatting with her fellow Fist members, then returns to her quarters to pack her things.
It doesn't take long, and soon she is lugging her pack, spear, crossbow, and other gear over to the team quarters. Once inside, she stops and surveys the space.
The oversize bunks would be for the centaurs, of course. No small bunks for the halflings, though there often weren't. And--
Cameron speaks up then, offering her the corner bunk. Pru smiles gratefully. "That would be great if nobody minds," she says. She begins lugging her gear in that direction. She hangs her spear and crossbow in the weapons rack, then stows the rest of her gear neatly in her foot locker. Which she has learned not to call "that little chest thing."
As best as she can, she changes out of the dress uniform and into a regular uniform [OOC: or does "at liberty" mean you can be out of uniform?]. She glances around at her new teammates.
She knows Linden, of course; the easygoing centaur seems to know everybody. She likes him for his relaxed attitude, and for the fact that he is a cleric.
William is the one she probably knows best; they've had several classes together. She gives him a friendly greeting.
She's seen Cameron at the temple a time or two, and of course she's tried to practice her Dwarven on Tinker. He just asked her to hand him things.
As evening approaches, Pru makes her way to the Last Assignment, wondering what the sergeant has to say to them.
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+6=9 ; d20+2=16 ; d20+2=12 ; d20+6=26 ; d20+6=24 ; Thursday August 8th, 2013 4:57:31 PM
Tinker thumps his forehead with a calloused hand. "That's right! Pru the human who knows dwarfish." That earns Prudence a genuine smile from the dwarf. When Cameron suggests a blanket, Tinker looks at the corner critically, checking stone and joins carefully before pronouncing it wouldn't be a moment of work.
Learning that NIckolai has a sand-clock, Tinker's eyes just about glaze over, and the dwarf simply has to watch the contraption in action. "Ah, ah-ha, yes!", is all anyone can get out of him for some time.
Then he commiserates with the Fist about Sergeant Trimmack and Sergeant Helmbane, who they are also going to need to know. Not knowing much, he urges the Fist to get to the Last Assignment early. "We spread out and see if we can see Trimmack or Helmbane and who they are talking to. All these new sergeants are from Fists that got promoted right? So the people our sergeants are going to talk to will be either their classmates from when they were a cadet or members of their last Fist. If we wait until our Sergeants aren't with the group, and then walk by to see what they are talking about. And snap! we can learn about our leaders."
Putting action to words, Tinker moves about the Last Assignment, testing his theory on how to learn information.
...........
Profession (Engineer): 9 to hang a blanket for a privacy corner.
Intelligence Check: 16 know anything about Timmack
Intelligence Check: 12 know anything about Helmbane
Perception: 26 to identify Timmack's battlebuddies
Perception: 24 to identify Helmbane's battlebuddies
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) d20=10 ; Thursday August 8th, 2013 5:10:33 PM
Carver arriving at the tavern, wears his duty outfit, not his assembly uniform. He spots some of the others of his Fist (perc 10) and looks around for a table to claim for the group. He knows he's not very good at asking politely, now brow beating information he can do, and these people are people he might be working with in the future and that could cause trouble.
Once at the table he orders a pitcher of beer and one of wine. He knows some of the others don't care for the wine he likes. He asks for 10 goblets or tankards or whatever they use for drinking out of.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Thursday August 8th, 2013 5:37:49 PM
The centaur finishes up his letter and sends out that days post.
He makes an effort to make it to the last assignment on time, hoping all the while he didn't sleep through the lesson which was sure to be on the assignment. What time was it currently, 1945? Hmmm..... he might have to run to make it. He hopes that Bliss is paying attention to the time.... his short little legs certainly would make him late. He makes back to the barracks and packs up a few things he might need and tosses them haphazardly into his saddle bags. He dusts off his cleanest spare uniform, cus the one got scuffed with halfling foot prints, and makes it out of the barracks with minutes to spare. He's glad centaurs don't have to wear the regulation shoes and pants!
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Thursday August 8th, 2013 5:40:01 PM
OOC: Never went to ROTC or military anything, I don't know what is what, duty uniform, assembly uniform... can't they just pick one?! ;)
DM Zach -- First Time at the Last Assignment Thursday August 8th, 2013 5:42:58 PM
OOC: Liberty you can wear what you want.
As soon as Cameron asks Bliss for help, the smaller halfling quits his shadow play and starts the new matching game.
Raw Int check to recall Trimmack's insignia: 16 (or 23 if you prefer Perception)
Raw Int check to recall Helmbane: 16 (or 23 if you prefer Perception)
Perception checks to find people with the same insignias: 9, 27, 26, and 25 (one clunker of a roll, but the next three are keepers!)
If he sees anybody, he whispers to Cameron, "Cam! Cam! There's one there. And that guy, And that one."
If he picks out more than Cameron, he says, "It's okay, Cam. You can be the second winner." If he picks out fewer, he says, "I'm second winner! I'm second winner!" If they both find the same number, he happily offers to shake hands with Cameron and says, "We are both the winner!"
If nobody finds any insignias such as the ones they seek, Bliss complains, "Cam, this game is too hard!"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) d20=6 ; d20+9=20 ; Thursday August 8th, 2013 9:32:57 PM
OOC: I would think we are to be in uniform at all times. Maybe I've watched Gomer Pyle to much, but they were always in uniform, even when off base on R&R.
Nikolai sets up his Sand Clock for Tinker to watch. "Alas, I shall have to return it to my mother as it is too delicate to take on assignments." Sand slips through an opening in the bottom of the bowl and starts filling up a bucket. The bucket is at one end of a lever, the other end has a counterweight. When the bucket is full, it dips and hits a bell, which in turn tips the bucket over emptying it into a small bowl. The sand then vanishes, ending up back into the top bowl. "I can adjust the buckets to take more or less time to fill, as needed."
Nikolai notes Pru's dilemma and suggested solution. He has time, so he strides over to the Quarter Master and requisitions a large canvas. Not particularly a normal thing for a recruit to ask but he tries to explain the reason. Dipl = 6 "We need to section off part of our barracks to give our female Fist member a little privacy. If you will, Sir."
If the section of canvas is given he salutes the Quarter Master and returns jubilant to their FIst quarters and presents the canvas to Prudence.
If the section is not given, he still salutes the Quartermaster but starts looking for alternatives. Any canvas laying around somewhere? covering some equipment? Anything?
Perc +9 (looking for spare canvas or other material that would serve) = 20
He also looks for a wooden pole to serve as anchor for the fourth corner and some rope.
If he finds the canvas, he tells his new Fist friends and works out a way with them to snatch it later on that night on their way back from the Last Assignment.
At the Last Assignment, as his friends talk about how to get information on their Fist leaders, Nikolai reminds them that their sergeants were from Fists out in the field, not at Headquarters. They could have come from anywhere, far or near. They have more likely seen many battles and their prowess is why they were chosen to lead a pack of Newbies.
"My father was..." he starts but then remembers not to brag about his family. He tries not to sound bragart when contines. "My father made sergeant after three years of full duty in the Wolf Cavalry Regiment. Three years may sound like a long time to make sergeant, but not so in the Cavalry. The turnover rate in the Cavalry is much less than in the infantry.
Nikolai turns to Carver and asks, "You mentioned you were a Cavalry specialist. Why join the recruits here in Thankasis instead of the Cavalry Headquarters in Ranashir?"
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Thursday August 8th, 2013 9:55:27 PM
Carver with a goblet of wine 3/4 the way to his lips, freezes and then looks at Nikolai, tipping his head slightly as he does so. "I guess you haven't noticed the larger 3/4 of my body then. All Centaurs are Cavalry, there is really no choice in the matter. We may do other things, but Cavalry is in our heart and soul. I grew up running the fields and outlaying areas of my tribal grounds, I even got myself into a bit of a sticky wicket a time or two, and then I was chosen at 10 to go on a raid, where I really got in trouble. Coming here was not really an option, too many there would know of me and I would prefer not too be too noticed. At least not yet." He then finishes the drink he was starting and refills the goblet afterwards.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Friday August 9th, 2013 1:25:23 AM
"Hey, Carv, man. Horses bite though, they're real mean... and it's harsh to get chomps from a horse. Centaurs are chilly cus we eat carrots in salads." He smiles like an idiot. "Snap! I'm hungry." He pulls a wheat bar from his bags and starts chomping.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Friday August 9th, 2013 1:56:53 PM
At the Last Assignment, Pru listens to her new teammates as they chat. "I'm afraid I don't know the insignias and stuff very well," she says. "William might know. He's pretty smart."
DM Zach -- Breaking Down the Uniforms Friday August 9th, 2013 4:16:21 PM Tinker quickly realizes that a few extra blankets off the empty racks and an easily found piece of rope makes a sufficient, if not pretty, divider for the lone female Fist Mate.
------------ Once everyone is together, it seems to be decided that finding as much information about their Sgt's... without the Sgt's knowing, is high on the list of priorities.
It takes a few moments, but with everyone working together, some information is pieced together.
First off, they are obviously wearing their old Insignia, as they have not been given their new insignia, nor have you received your first insignia. That means there are no official orders yet.
Second, both Sgt Trimmack and Sgt Helmbane were wearing identical Insignia. That means they were in the same Fist! Several of you note that is seems odd that two members of the same fist would be promoted at roughly the same time. Both had to have been promoted in the past year for them to have been assigned to a new fist like this.
Third, though it took some remembering on everyone's part, it is finally decide what they Insignia was. Tiger Regiment. Storm Company. D Troop. 1st Infantry. Danner's Fist.
The group also remembers hearing about the exploits of the Tiger Regiment. Storm Company. D Troop. 1st Infantry. Over the past 20 years, the 1st Infantry was known for taking on some of the toughest assignments and always seeing them through. Because of that reputation, much of the 1st Infantry is assigned to various parts of the Scab.
Looking around, the bar there are several Tiger Regiment members, a few are even from Storm Company. There are two from D Troop, but only one that can be identified as being from the 1st Infantry. He is rather large minotaur, even by minotaur standards, and is wearing an eye patch. He is obviously a newly promoted Sgt and is drinking at the bar with the 4 new recruits that belong to his Fist. The more you look at them, the more it looks as if someone is stacking the chips in their favor. Two are equally physically impressive Minotaurs with bad looking attitudes. One is a massive Half-Orc that would probably be the largest person in the room if Taur's were excluded. Oddly enough one is a Half-Elf female. By everyone's best recollection, she is a divine healer.
If the group wants information about their Sgt's, the brooding minotaur is going to be the best bet.
The group also thinks back to their Sgt's medals and ribbons as well as well as their Service Stripes. Sgt Trimmack had two service stripes which mean he had been in the Mailed Fist for at least 6, but not quite 9 years, as each Service strip is equal to 3 years of service. Sgt Helmbane had service stripes on his sleeve which would put him somewhere between 21 and 24 years of service. Oddly enough, out of all the medals on each chests, one truly stood out. It was a red and black medal and the medallion was made of adamantine. None of you had ever seen before. The best guess is that is wasn't give by the Mailed Fist. It also is higher than their other medals. What ever it is, it must be very important.
Bliss (Cayzle) Friday August 9th, 2013 4:26:51 PM
OOC: Oh, kindly DM, can I double check what you are saying? Trimmack, Helmbane, and this minotaur were all in the same fist, and all three are now seargeants leading their own new fists?
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15, (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) d20=6 ; Friday August 9th, 2013 5:28:17 PM
OOC No, but close. They were in the same grouping above Fist, which is Squad. It says 2-3 fists per squad so he is one of about 15 people that can tell us something about them.
IC Cameron listens to what the others have pieced together and thinks for a minute. Then he come up with a plan, their first action together if you will. " OK, so this is how I see this shaping up. That Minotaur Sergeant has one of the most physically tough fists here for the Final tomorrow. If it is straight up combat they may have no problem taking it. I doubt it'll be that easy though. What we need to be concerned about is tonight, the next few minutes in fact, before our sergeants get here. I suggest we buy their next round and deliver it to them. Hopefully this will favorably impact their view of us. Then we ask the sergeant straight up about our sergeants, what kind of assignments they had, where they served, how hardcore it is rumored they are all that jazz. If our friend Linden here can help me out without making them angry I think we can win them over that way and get some info from them. Sound good?"
"Oh and if things get physical, remember we are mostly unarmed and Minotaurs, like Centaurs come with included weapons that really hurt. They will be easier to hit out of armor and we, well some of us, will be harder to hit, but they will hit alot harder. So let's keep it from becoming a fight eh? Besides, getting tossed in the brig tonight could negatively impact our Final tomorrow. Just in case though, Tinker, do you have your tools on you and can you hide them effectively? Anyone think we can do better? I'm open to suggestions and or corrections."
Int check 6 does that badge( the adamantite one) mean anything to me having grown up with Dwarves? Is it a dwarf thing?
Does the bar have rules about fights breaking out? i assume it is frowned upon and I assume that leathal weapons get you in ALOT of trouble, so the taurs should be careful. ours and theirs.
We can wait to see if there are more ideas and we will get this party started 8).
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Friday August 9th, 2013 6:45:31 PM
Linden is doesn't care much which Sergeant comes from which regiment, etc, etc. They are officers now.
The centaur goes where his class goes to pass time. He doesn't get into conflicts and hopes to keep his classmates out of them too. He eats and avoids drink, though he wants to.
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Friday August 9th, 2013 6:50:55 PM "Let me make just a simple suggestion, we buy a drink for all of the other graduates. Then someone or someones go to each group and ask the same questions. Do not under any circumstance let it come to a fight of any type. I'm not up for getting booted out of the Mailed Fist or being sent back into training." Carver continues to work on his wine.
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15, (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Friday August 9th, 2013 6:56:57 PM
Cameron watches Linden's attitude and trys to softly adjust it. " Buddy, these new sergeants are going to be leading our Fists out in the field. We will have them for a long time and we need to know what sets them off so that we are not constantly in trouble. That Minotaur over there should know our sergeants and can tell us what will set them off, so we can avoid it. It is in our best interest to find this out." "Oh, and sergeants are non-commissioned officers, they are grunts like us with alot more responsibilities and deserving more respect They are veterans and know alot that we can learn, if we can figure out how to get them to teach us."
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday August 9th, 2013 7:07:34 PM
Tinker perks up, the thought of an opportunity to pick a lock that he hasn't before overcoming any common sense of not getting into a fight in the Last Assignment. "That I can, Cameron.", he says with confidence to the Halfling who knows more about dwarves than Tinker does himself. "And since their old battlemate is sure to tell Trimmack and Helmbane that we were pumping him for information, we'll either be praised for initiative or berated for snooping. Either way, we'll make an impression!"
Tinker is excited about working the scheme and helps carry the mugs over to the Minotaur Fist.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Friday August 9th, 2013 7:53:50 PM
Pru is interested by the fact that the sergeants share a background, but she doesn't see a need to press beyond that. "Maybe the whole unit got promoted," she muses aloud. "Has anybody heard where their last assignment was? Maybe they did something heroic."
Like Linden, though, she isn't interested in gossip. She mingles, chatting easily with her teammates and with other students, but doesn't try to find any particular information.
Bliss is too scared to buy drinks for anyone or to go talk to that giant. But he will hang around nearby and keep a low profile and listen to anything interesting he hears -- until 20:00 hours, that is. He has an order to be ready then, so he is careful to be at the table with his fist-mates at that time.
Stealth to avoid notice: 22
Perception to eavesdrop: 9! Ugh! Nat 1.
Bliss is distracted by some dust bunnies he finds in a corner, especially when a breeze stirs them and he imagines they are dancing hedgehogs.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) d20+7=21 ; d20+3=16 ; Saturday August 10th, 2013 12:29:35 AM
Linden shrugs. "Dude, whatever they are, they neeeed to chill some. That dwarf... I thought that vein on his forehead was going to erupt. At least Sgt Trimmack doesn't have a stick up his..." Just then he drops his mug of wine. "...duuude. I was enjoying that. Can I get another!" He raises his broken mug. "What was I saying?! Oh yeah. How do you guys think your going to do on the final? I just don't wanna come back next year." He retrieves his unbroken mug, filled with a light wine, probably basic white.
He maintain conversation with his classmates but he keeps his eyes open for anyone who looks like they might need a hand with a tray or down in the dumps about anything. He knows finals often bring on stress. He's got the cure. (Sense Motive 21, Perception 16)
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15, (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) d20+2=7 ; Saturday August 10th, 2013 1:30:18 AM " So far it looks like you and me Tinker. Yeah, we will make an impression one way or the other. Can you tell what they are drinking from here? Either that or we can ask the server getting their drinks." " Nikolai are you able to read those campaign ribbons ? At least the ones bestowed by the Fist? " Maybe having most of them stay back would b best. That way if trouble broke out they would be able to claim innocence and be the good guys. Cameron felt a bit of his father's bravado welling up and he hoped it turned out well. Perception 7 to tell what drinks to order for the table.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14, hp 12/12 Saturday August 10th, 2013 1:49:30 PM
William listens to the various plans and the information they've gathered... He's not into starting a fight either, as he wants to ensure he'll make it through the final and is fully prepared for their 2200 meeting... He'll stick with drinking whatever non-alcoholic drinks they have so as to avoid affecting his best weapon, his mind...
However, whatever info they can gather would be good and he says, "Count me in... Let's see what these vets or others can tell us... " He takes his mug too and walks over the Minotaur Fist with the others, though he remains near the back, with his physical back near the wall so that he's not going to be surprised...
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) d20+2=22 ; Saturday August 10th, 2013 6:42:55 PM
Linden shakes his head and heads over to the minotaur. "Um, Sir. I have a bet going with myself, what are you drinking? I think its wine, but me thinks its beer. I have to buy you one if I'm wrong." The cleric smiles like an idiot, but his question is an honest one. (In Minotaur tongue, Diplomacy... woohoo! 22!)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) d20+1=21 ; Saturday August 10th, 2013 10:51:14 PM
Nikolai chuckles at Carver's retort about noticing or not noticing his equine physiq. He thought of severla nifty retorts of his own but knew they'd be misunderstood.
"Carver, you didn't quite understand me, but that's probably because you just don't know. But the Wolf Regiment has its own Companies of Centaurs. As you just said, Centaurs are natural Cavalry experts. What I meant, and was not clear about, was why not have joined one of the centaur companies? Centaur Archer-Cavalry are some of the most feared, and the Heavy Centaur Lance Company is nearly unstoppable. But oh well, you are here, for now."
When the conversation turns to trying to pry information about their sergeants out of the Minotaur Fist leader. Nikolai just sighs and shakes his head. "Bad idea, boys. it would be easier to get information on Helmbane through Sgt Trimmak. I'm sure Sgt. Trimmak can be relied upon to tell some good ol' war stories. But if Sgt. Helmbane gets wind of our snooping... well, I'm glad he's not my immediate sergeant."
Nikolai is asked if he recognizes the campaign ribbons. He takes a sip of his ale and thinks back on his father's and grandfather's ribbons and all the friends that would stop by...
Knowledge History +1 = 21! Alrighty! N20!
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) d20+8=26 ; Sunday August 11th, 2013 10:08:59 AM
Cameron's mind starts to churn as he tries to think of an approach to get the Sgt talking and waits for Nikolai to recall the ribbons. He settles on congratulating the new Minotaur Sergeant on his promotion and wishing the other Fist well on finals and then bringing up the connection between their sergeants as first company veterans and see where that leads. He signals the waitress and orders the round for the fist at the bar. All he needs now is the riddle of the ribbons. He is thankful that William and Tinker will be at his side and the others will be safely out of the way in case this goes badly.
Diplomacy to 'get in good' with the other fist 26
OOC Waiting for DM post. Figured I'd get the diplomacy roll up so hee has something to work with. With Nikolai's roll we should get some good intel about their past exploits to run with
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Sunday August 11th, 2013 11:32:12 AM "Well Nikolai, I may be young, but I've noticed that once someone is with a group of others, they tend to begin share the same opinions about things. I have my own ideas about stuff, and it doesn't quite agree with most of the other Centaurs I've ever met. One of my ancestors, a great leader who sacrificed herself to save her raid, once said, to be yourself, you must first know yourself. Or at least that's how I heard it. Being among other 'Taurs would be a lot of influence to over come." As he speaks about his ancestor, an almost glazed look comes across his face. It's like he is actually recalling a conversation.
Bliss (Cayzle) Monday August 12th, 2013 7:48:36 AM
When he realizes that it is 20:00, Bliss starts and dashes to his group. He looks around, a little wildly, for his new commanding officer. He finds a seat, climbs up into it, and sits with his back straight against the chair back, legs out straight in front of him, hands clasped in his lap.
OOC: Morning Friends -- typing this from the hotel lobby as I'm away on an overnight vacation to a waterpark with the wife and kid. Just to explain lower than usual posting.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Monday August 12th, 2013 12:03:33 PM
OOC: Checking in.
DM Zach -- Breaking Down the Uniforms Monday August 12th, 2013 12:38:44 PM
Cameron can't tell much about the Medal, but he is certain it is Dwarven in nature. How odd that Trimmack also has one.
Both Cameron and Linden have a conversation on the Sgt's vs. Officers.
Carver sips at his wine.
Tinker decides the group will probably be best served by getting what information they can. The Fist likes initiative... right?
Pru has a great idea... Perhaps the whole squad did something exceptionally heroic. She might be on to something.
Bliss hides out... watching some dust bunnies dance.
Linden walks over and in a very round about way... buys the Minotaur Sgt a drink.
William follows him over.
Nikolai recognizes all of the campaign ribbons. Most show distinguished service in the Scab and surrounding areas. Many of the Medals were high ranking for Bravery, Valor, and being injured in the line of duty.
------------------------
The Minotaur looks at Linden and the smile leaves his face. "That has to be the dumbest thing I've ever heard..." however his smiles comes back to his face. "Of course, mama always said, don't look a gift horse in the mouth... I'll take any free drink I can get. And it beer."
The other Fist, once the beer starts flowing, begins talking it up with the group.
Only the halfelf does not drink.
"Ok, so why are you really here... not just to buy me drinks I am sure..."
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Monday August 12th, 2013 2:49:47 PM
"So, um, yeah, Sir, I was curious about your experience out in the real world, after school."
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Monday August 12th, 2013 3:44:27 PM
Pru drifts over to the half-elf woman, whom she vaguely recognizes. There aren't many women in the program, and they all started in the Women's Barracks three years ago [said the player, totally hijacking the narrative from the DM. :) ].
"Hi," she says. "I know I recognize you, but I'm afraid I don't remember your name. I'm Prudence Gundle."
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) d20+8=23 ; Monday August 12th, 2013 5:41:21 PM " Well my squad mate got ahead of the rest of us, but we were looking at your campaign ribbons and your unit insignia and were hoping you could tell us something about our new Sergeants since you had already served with them. Linden here serves under Sgt Trimmack and I am under Sgt Helmbane. Nikolai here says all your campaign ribbons are from the Scab and are all for Bravery, Courage and being wounded in combat. What did you guys run into that got so many of your Squad promoted? And finally I can tell that adamantite pin is Dwarven, but I can't place it. What is that one for?"
Diplomacy 26 ( I'll use the above roll from my last post if that's ok. If not 23 is my new one
Cameron waves the barmaid back over for refills and hopes that the Sergeants apparent good nature last long enough for him to tell them a few stories.
Cameron's bet is that they were named something akin to "Dwarf Friends" for their actions and are heroes among the Dwarves of the Scab.
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Monday August 12th, 2013 5:43:27 PM
Cameron plays up the youthful enthusiasm angle as best as he can.
OOC I go for a second eye surgery tomorrow morning. If I can't post I will talk to John and ask him to put something in for me.
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Monday August 12th, 2013 6:04:57 PM
Carver, if the other table looks towards the table will raise his goblet in a toast like fashion. "Nikolai, sorry for being defensive about my choices, but when one has an ultimate goal like the one I've set for myself, having to work against others who wish for nothing to change, would take too much of my time that I might be able to use to further those goals." He still hasn't said what he is aiming for, but with his dedication to Gargul as a holy warrior, it can't be something evil, that much is at least obvious.
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday August 12th, 2013 8:36:02 PM
Tinker brings a beer and passes it around, stopping when the elf doesn't want any. The dwarf shrugs, keeping two beers for himself. He looks around and doesn't see anything very interesting, so watches the swivels on the stools. All his questions were already asked by Cameron, so he simply waits to see what the minotaurs do.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14, hp 12/12 Monday August 12th, 2013 9:18:00 PM
William introduces himself to the Minotaurs too, remaining thoughtful and attentive on the conversation... he does add, "Tell us about these finals coming up in a few hours and what's the best way to be successful? We heard good things about you and thought you'd have the right idea..."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) d20+9=21 ; Monday August 12th, 2013 9:59:15 PM
Nikolai responds to Carver with a nodd of understanding. "My father had issues too when he joined the fist, although he's not been vocal about it. I got from my grandmother that much." He takes another gulp of ale then lifts it when Carver lifts his. "To success in our finals!" he exclaims to his table.
Having informed his friends what he knows about the ribbons, Nikolai would like to hold his breath while his friends are up at the bar with the minotaurs. But he can't do that and drink at the same time. He looks around for some other means to distract himself. A Bar Game would be nice to break the ice, he thought. He looks for a dart game or some other game of skill typical to bars.
Per +9 = 21
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Tuesday August 13th, 2013 5:56:07 AM
Linden stokes up a pipe of a sweet and tangy aroma. "Yup, I'm with the big dude. What do you know about 'im? Is 'ee chill? Or do I got to worry? Will he douse me in oil and light me on fire...? cus that would NOT be copes!" He smiles, eyes a bit saggy. "Hey, yeah!! To FINALS!!!" He raises a glass, then puts it down and raises his own.
Bliss (Cayzle) Tuesday August 13th, 2013 8:17:59 AM
With everyone else at the minotaur's table. Bliss sits at his group's original table and worries. Is this the right table? Why did everyone go over there? Is it Twenty O'Clock yet? Where is that seargeant?
He also worries about what he should so. Should he go over with the people in his group? Or is everybody else wrong? Why is everybody drinking beer? Should he drink beer? He hates beer. Just a little bit makes him sick feeling.
Nervous, Bliss sits perfectly still and silent. If he were casting a still silent spell, it would look just like that, except with no magic actually happening.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) Tuesday August 13th, 2013 10:14:59 AM
OOC: i believe the minotaur sergeant is at the bar with his four fist members. Not all of us are at the bar. At least Nikolai and Carver are still at their own table, which, I presume, is the same one as Bliss.
DM Zach -- A Beer With the Sgt's Tuesday August 13th, 2013 3:54:40 PM Linden sort of "halfway" comes clean about why he is buying drinks. The Minotaur takes a swig of his beer and smiles... sort of... "I know what you are doing. Heck, I did the same thing when I graduated here. You want to know about your Sgt. I don't know who you are assigned but I am guessing it is either Trimmack or Helmbane since you are asking me... They are both Grade A. That's all you need to know. Thanks for the beer."
William chimes in and the other minotaur just shakes his head in response to both Linden and William and says "Dude, they are your Sgt's, not tyrants... they will watch your back. And I don't know what the finals are going to be... but I ain't sharin' secrets... we are competing against each other ya know."
Pru starts a friendly conversation with her female counterpart. j"I'm Ta'Nalia but everyone calls me Tay. I know you... or, I know of you. But nice to officially meet you."(You are right, you would have seen her and worked with her on a few occasions. You probably would have known each others names... had you though hard and long enough.)
Cameron asks his question of the Minotaur Sergeant and he gets a bit more out of him. "I'll tell you this and nothing more, That is the Dwarven League's Medal of Valor... one of the highest awards they give... the highest that can be given to a non-dwarf. We lost a lot of good men at Riddleport. Now, no more questions... ask your Sgt's if you want to know more... if they will talk about it."
Carver and Nikolai carry on a conversation between themselves and look for a bar game of some sort, but stop short when they see their Sgt's walking towards their table.
Tinker passes some beverages around and makes sure no fighting breaks out. So far everyone seems amicable enough.
Bliss seems lost in contemplation when his Sgt's arrive at the table where Carver and Nikolai are in conversation.
----------------- Sgt Trimmack smiles to the three at the table and asks, "Will you round up everyone else please?" He seems to be genuinely friendly.
Sgt Helmbane immediately grabs the attention of a bartender and orders 10 mugs of The Lost Halls Porter. He has them waiting at the table for everyone when they arrive.
"Alright ladies, drink up... this is a team-building exercise, even if you don't normally drink you can at least do one..." The Dwarf holds his mug out and says "Cheers!" before downing the whole mug in one long drink.
Sgt Trimmack takes a sip of his porter then addresses the team. "Ok, who has any questions. Go ahead, get them all out in the open. I saw you talking to the good Sgt over there and I can only guess what you were asking him... go ahead, and ask... Better to get everything out in the open now than to worry about secrets in combat."
Cameron (John C posting for Dave F) d20+8=24 ; Tuesday August 13th, 2013 5:08:52 PM "We noticed that most of your ribbons were from the Scab, for Combat, Valor and Heroism. We were wondering just what it was that you did? We also realized, well actually noticed that that three of you were promoted to Sargent, there must be a story behind it. I also noticed you have a Dwarven medal for Valor, and was wondering about it. If you could regal us about them, it may have some impact on the trial tomorrow."
diplomacy 24
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Tuesday August 13th, 2013 5:15:02 PM
"Right! Tay, how have you been?" Pru smiles at the half-elf. "Is this your fist?"
The two don't have much time to talk, however, before the sergeants arrive. "Whoops! I have to go. It was good talking with you," Pru says, and returns to the table. She finds a seat as Sergeant Helmbane begins his instructions.
Alright ladies....
Pru rolls her eyes. One of those. She wonders briefly how Sergeant Helmbane would like it if people started using "dwarves" as an insult. She lifts her mug and takes a hearty swallow.
Sergeant Trimmack asks if there are any questions, and Pru's eyebrows raise a little at his phrasing. "Secrets? Are you keeping secrets from us, sergeant?"
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Tuesday August 13th, 2013 5:31:12 PM
Carver lifts the mug and since he's already started drinking downs it in a couple chugs, Belching afterwards.
"What I'm interested in is the types of testing they do. What we can expect or at least what it was like when you were tested."
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Tuesday August 13th, 2013 5:33:28 PM
OOC: I read that as LAD - EES not LAY - DEES, which is correct Mr. DM?
DM Zach: It was the same as saying girlies. Yes, he is annoying.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) Tuesday August 13th, 2013 5:59:35 PM
Nikolai stands straight as their two sergeants enter. Althought The Last Assignment seems to dispense formalities, Nikolai just doesn't feel right slouching in front of superiors.
"Yes Sir!" he says when Sgt Trimmak asks to gather up the others. The effort was not really necessary as his teamates also saw when the two came in, but Nikolai had spied Pru talking to the half-elf woman at the bar and wanted to get a closer look.
"Err... uhm... is all he gets out as Pru turns and heads back to their table. He shifs a foot rather uncomfortably then follows Pru back to their table.
'Boy, that was just great,' he sighs.
NIkolai falls in with a big "CHEERS!" and a big gulp. Knowing dwarve's capacity for drink, he does not empty his mug, wanting to be rather sober for any bar games later, if they have time.
'Secrets?' Nikolai shruggs...
Nikolai speaks up. "One of our first rules was to pay attention and notice who our superiors were and give them the proper salute. Extra duty for those that failed to do so. So it was natural that we noticed yours and that they were of the same unit and same campaign. It was also natural for us to wonder who or what you fought, what tactics you used to defeat the enemy, what weapons proved more effective, and so forth. We noticed that yon Sgt Minotaur had the same thing and impulsively went over there to ask about them without thinking about waiting for you. Sorry about that, Sirs"
OOC: Nikolai is not trying to Bluff or Diplomate here, just stating the facts as he 'perceived' it.
OOC: BTW. I'm leaving out of town tomorrow. I'll be at my parents through Sunday. I should have access to the Wold, it's mostly a matter of finding time and asking for permission to use their PC. If it looks like I'm not going to get a post in, feel free, anyone, to post something for me. Just don't get me drunk, just yet. :)
Thanks.
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday August 13th, 2013 6:14:28 PM
Tinker becomes less distracted as Nickolai, Carver, and Bliss 'round' up the Fists and bring them to the table. "Social drinking is what dwarves do", he remembers his mentor say years and years ago, but curiously, Tinker never got used to that. He accepts the Lost Halls Porter and takes a bigger swig than Sergeant Trimmack, but smaller than a full-throated guzzle, and listense to the instructions. What questions to ask? He has to think through his response.
"Sergeant Trimmack, Fists work together, right? And we're all trained, so you aren't an instructor for us, but more like the boss. Now, we see that three of you are all from the same squad. And we can also assume that the Fist Leadership is smart enough to figure out that just because you can fight good doesn't mean you can lead others. So you each have some training in leading others and how to pick teams and stuff." Tinker seems to run out of beating around the bush and has to take a breath before plunging in. "So, why us together as Fists? Looking around, most of the other Fists are mostly like-type teams so they can ALL be in the shieldwall or ALL be skirmishers. But us? We look like the parts that got left over."
Once he gets to the point, Tinker seems to be particularly blunt. It just takes him a while to GET there! "Are we just a bunch of misfits?"
DM Zach: This reminds me of Bean talking to Graff about Dragon in Ender's Shadow.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Wednesday August 14th, 2013 6:26:21 AM
The cleric looks at the minotaur and says, "umkaaaay, Well, I'magona go over here now." The centaur turns a shade of red. His tail swishes, a bit irritated.
The talk of competition sucks. This is the first he heard about it. These are his friends and comrades, not opponents.
"Misfit Leftovers." Answering the question.
Bliss (Cayzle) Wednesday August 14th, 2013 8:55:25 AM
"Hey!" says Bliss. "Don't call us names! That's not nice! I fit just fine!"
He looks around, glaring at Lindy and Tinker. "We got two big ones, two little ones, and four in the middle. What's wrong with that?"
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday August 14th, 2013 9:22:24 AM
Tinker looks a little surprised at Bliss' outburst, and shrugs. "I call 'em as I see 'em, Bliss. In every project, you put the pieces together for a gadget and there are pieces left on the workbench." The dwarf looks around, but is mostly blocked by the larger members of the Fists. "Every other Fist looks like it is built for something, something that fits with the Mailed Fist as part of a mercenary company. We look like the pieces that got left on the workbench and are cobbled together to be a paperweight."
Yep, Tinker sure is blunt!
DM Zach -- A Beer With the Sgt's Wednesday August 14th, 2013 11:18:23 AM
Cameron is blunt and gets straight to the point. Trimmack sets his mug down and begins. "I can answer your first three questions at once. Sgt Helmbane and I were in Tiger Regiment. Storm Company. D Troop. 1st Infantry. Danner's Fist. We were assigned to the Scab for... as long as I care to remember. We had been pulling missions all over the Scab, mostly caravan escorts and the like. We saw more than our fair share of combat. Giants, orcs, duergar, and the like. Typical stuff for the Scab. Well, then we started encountering undead, and a lot of them. Our next mission was to one of the larger trading hubs in the Scab, Riddleport." Trimmack stops for a moment as if lost in thought. Even Helmbane sets his mug down and swears under his breath at the mention of Riddleport. After a few moments Trimmack continues. "The city was always bustling. Tons of people, going about their business. Anything that happened in the Scab went through Riddleport. We were on the outskirts of town, on patrol, just a simple assignment, mostly to keep any eye out for any undead. The next thing we know, there was an explosion... bigger than anything I've ever seen. The whole city in a matter of seconds was destroyed. So many people died. Even worse, many of those who died, were turned into undead. We went into the destroyed city and started killing the undead. We saved those that we could, we fought off scavenging pirates and finally, when we though all was lost, a company from the Dwarven League came and helped us escort the refugees to safety. The refugees said we were heroes. The Dwarven League agreed with them. We were given the Dwarven League Medal of Valor. We were ordered back here to be reassigned since we lost so many from our fist and squad. Instead, they decided to promote those of us who survived into new fists. Out of our whole squad... 15 good men... only the three of us survived. Well, technically I was field promoted to Sgt by Sgt Danner as he lay on the battlefield with a mortal wound."
Helmbane takes over and answers the last question about the final exams. "They change every year. There is always some kind of combat trial, some kind of stealth trial, and some kind of knowledge trial. There are always three. They are scored on a point system. Team with most point is the Honor Team. You never know when they are going to happen." The Dwarf looks around for a moment before finding the bartender and calling for another round of Lost Halls Porter. "Drink up!"
Prudence is worried about secrets.
Carver drinks some more and gives his compliments to the Bartender with a belch.
Nikolai seems to be worried about offending his Sgt's. Helmbane smiles to Trimmack, "I like this guy. Intense. That's good, just save some of that for the battlefield."
Tinker is also blunt, but in a different way. Linden also chimes in about Misfits. This seems to really upset Bliss. Trimmack answers in his typical calm and measured voice. "I don't see US as a bunch of misfits. Some fists are put together to focus on calvary only, others as infantry, and some for stealth. In our time in the field, we found that adaptability was the key to success. That is why Sgt Helmbane and I both requested a mixed until fist. We did not get to pick who we wanted, but I am happy with those we got. You are no misfits. When we win Honor Team, I hope you will all see this. If not, once we are in the field you will understand."
The drinks that Helmbane ordered arrive and he starts passing them around. "Drink up, any more questions?"
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14, hp 12/12 Wednesday August 14th, 2013 3:55:10 PM
William's impressed with the story and if it's true, then these are sergeants truly earned their stripes in the field of battle... He has no love for undead either so he understands their actions...
He is curious about that explosion and people being raised from the dead and asks questions about if any necromancer types were seen, what sort of mages or wizards were present, etc. His goal is to find out who might have done the raising and what they used to do it...
He sticks with drinking tea, not alcohol, as he doesn't want to cloud his mind for the tests coming up... He's more of a listener than talker, but with sincerity, he says, "We'll do our best to win the honor squad for you sergeant and I'm proud to be a part of your team."
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday August 14th, 2013 5:13:49 PM
Tinker likes the straightforward answers, both as to their Sergeant's history and that the two groups are specifically set up to be "Utility Fists". He tries it out on his own tongue. "Utility Fist. Like we are ready for anything and can work where the normal Fists can't." He drinks more of his first ale before setting it aside and reaching for another. "I like the sound of that!"
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Wednesday August 14th, 2013 5:26:11 PM
Pru listens, wide-eyed, as Sergeant Trimmack tells his tale. It sounds as if his former Fist had indeed been heroic, and had paid a terrible price.
When she hears about all the people who died and became undead, she closes her eyes and offers a quick prayer to Gargul to have mercy on them.
She accepts a fresh drink, and takes a hearty swallow of this one, too. She can hold her liquor better than she looks--which isn't saying much, granted. She figures she can get nicely buzzed tonight and not feel the effects too badly in the morning.
She nods agreement to Tinker's assessment. "Me, too," she says. "A good Fist should be able to cope with all kinds of situations."
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Wednesday August 14th, 2013 6:14:16 PM
Carver takes another drink of his wine, finishing the goblet off. "Being well versed for almost anything is a good thing, but I also hate to be a mother hen. I think we should shy away from too much more drinking, but I think I will invest ion a couple more rounds on the other new fists." He looks at his Sgt. "You said it can be at anytime tomorrow, that means in under 4 hours if you think about it, tomorrow starts at midnight, and getting the others drunk sounds like fair game, because they have that option as well...." He looks at his fist mates to see what they think of getting the other testees drunk before the test starts...
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Wednesday August 14th, 2013 6:23:51 PM
The usually very happy centaur, even with pipe in his mouth and mug in hand, grows a bit morose. "I don't like the idea of undead. Trimmack Sir.... you have officially harshed what mellow I had." The blue eyes are sad and bit teary. "How can I be inspired after a story of so much death?!"
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Wednesday August 14th, 2013 7:18:18 PM " ,Linden man, if you can't get inspired by that then you are broken. They went from patrol to the middle of a war zone and managed not only to live but shepard civilians out of that mess. That is totally inspiring." " Carver, I'm with you, but make sure they get plenty more booze. Cameron tosses Carver another gold for the bar's drinks. " We however should slip out and get geared up and catch a few winks. Any objections Sergeants?"
OOC Still can't see too well. kinda hunt and peck here and the browser is turned up to about 1 word per line.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Wednesday August 14th, 2013 7:44:10 PM
"But so many died. How is that inspiring?"
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Wednesday August 14th, 2013 8:56:58 PM "So many died, yes, But so many were saved by so few is the inspiring part."
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Wednesday August 14th, 2013 9:01:41 PM
"The fact that any died..."
Bliss (Cayzle) Wednesday August 14th, 2013 10:40:33 PM
Bliss is focused less on the stories and more on the orders. First, the seargeant says, "Alright ladies, drink up... this is a team-building exercise, even if you don't normally drink you can at least do one..."
Bliss looked again at the huge mug in front of him. For a fellow who weighs only 32 pounds sopping wet, the sheer volume of the pint is daunting, to say the least. Then the other seargeant says, "Drink up." And then again he says, "Drink up, any more questions?"
Bliss does not have any question. He has been given the same direct order three different times. And if there is one thing he has learned to do over the last three years, it is to follow orders.
He takes his first sip. Then another. He's never liked the taste of ale. But then, he did not like crawling on his belly in mud, or running ten miles with all his gear, or swimming naked in an icy lake, but he learned to follow those orders too.
Bliss takes another sip, and another. The alcohol begins to have an effect on him. He takes a deep gulp. The mug is hardly dented.
He notes that William the Courageous is drinking only tea. He must have courage to disobey a direct order. Bliss takes several more gulps. He notes that the the level in the mug is a quarter down. He looks at William. "William! How come your disobaying n order like that you are? You gotta obay ordrs right sure you do. Sarj thair sez you gotta 'drink up! dsrink up!' You goota drinkem up like me!"
Bliss reaches for his mug, misses, reaches again, and chugs another quarter mug. "Seee thair!"
The little fellow valiantly tries to follow his order, lifting the heavy shaking mug with both hands. "That's a good mug. Stay still mug," he says, talking to the vessel. He drinks more, then dropping the mug to the tabletop, and only a few drops dash out.
Bliss hears several people mention death. "Aaaa taint soo bad," he says, taking another sip. "I been dead. Kinda peace, uh, peace, uh, uh, peachy. Don fill bad fr ded fokz."
Bliss drains the last of his mug at last. He crawls onto the table and tries to stand at attention. "I did it sarje! Did!"
Bliss falls down on his face.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Thursday August 15th, 2013 2:32:57 AM
The centaur just stares at Bliss, on his face, against the stained floor. He clops over to the little halfling, "C'mon friend." He drags the halfling onto his back and makes for the door. "This isn't a fair test man. He's tiny. The pint is half his size. Harsh... seriously."
(OOC: Need a ruling. I would like to use Sacrificial Bond on Bliss, but it seems vague. It says I can transfer damage and accompanying effects to myself as an immediate action.)
DM Zach: For this, I will allow it.
DM Zach -- Helmbane Shows... Remorse? Thursday August 15th, 2013 11:21:01 AM
The Sergeants take in all that is said and remain somewhat solemn about the their story.
When Bliss passes out they pay attention. Helmbane shakes his head in disgust, but seemingly more with himself than anyone else. "Bah, such a good little soldier. Took my words literally and as an order. I'm sorry about that. I meant nothing by it... I forget not everyone likes drink as much as me... You are all dismissed to do as you please. Sleep would be my suggestion. Sgt Trimmack and me... we'll be staying in the Team Barracks with ya'll until graduation."
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday August 15th, 2013 12:47:04 PM
Much uplifted by the sergeant's pep talk and learning more about his shieldmates, Tinker takes SGT Helmsbane's advice and stops drinking. He lifts up Bliss and tosses the little fellow over a shoulder after putting a bartowel as a pad. "Don't think he'll stay up on your back," he tells Linden. "And better he vomit over the towel than your fur.
Tinker, waits for as much of the Fist Team that is going directly back to the barracks before starting out, keeping together as a group. He helps undress and tuck Bliss into his bunk with a bucket just in case before cleaning himself off and tossing his hairy body on his own bunk in only his smallclothes.
Before going to sleep, Tinker reaches a hand beneath his pillow and ensures his dagger is still there. "G'night. No telling how long we'll have before the final tests!"
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Thursday August 15th, 2013 1:18:00 PM
Pru watches the halfling kid's performance in amazement, then alarm. "Hey," she says, a couple of times while he's drinking. "Hey, slow down, kid." Drat! What was the kid's name? Something happy....
Then he passes out, face down on the table. Pru reaches out and shakes him lightly by the shoulder. "Hey!" she calls. "Hey--" darn it! Joy? Felicity? Jolie? "hey, Bliss," she says, remembering at last, "are you okay?"
But Linden and Tinker seem to have things under control, so Pru sits back and picks up her mug again. Some of her Fist-mates are leaving, but it's early yet and she's having fun.
"Thank you for the drink, sergeant," she tells Helmbane.
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Thursday August 15th, 2013 2:05:42 PM " Damn, he did better than I did when Uncle Morgan took me on my first bar crawl. I didn't manage to finish the first pint before I gave it back to the table. Yeah, lets get some rest and hope Bliss is ok for tomorrow." "Sergeants, it took alot of courage to do what you did back then, and to tell almost total strangers about it now. I look forward to being under your commands. Thank you." Cameron extends a hand to each sergeant and then a salute before helping get Bliss to bed. He gets his gear ready to the point he can roll out of bed and into his gear when the need arises.
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Thursday August 15th, 2013 2:11:32 PM
OOC John has a bunch of Dr appointments today, so I'll post for him. I can't switch his header for mine though cuz I can't see well enough to not mess it up. Sorry Ken. As for me the eye Dr put a big contact in my eye to keep the abrasions from irritating me so I can see better, but still not reall good. Glad I learned how to zoom my browser..
IC CARVER carver takes his money and the gold that Cameron gives him, plus any other money donated by the others ( do the sgt's want in?) up to the bar and tells the barkeep to keep the drinks flowing for anyone that wants to drink for as long as the gold lasts. He then quietly walks out and heads back to their bunks for some rest after he makes his gear ready for wake up.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14, hp 12/12 Thursday August 15th, 2013 3:26:27 PM
William laughs at his friend questioning his beverage, and shakes his head, "You got me on that one Bliss... On the other hand, you've drunk enough for both of us, I'm sure. We'll just count them together and say that I gave you mine..."
When Bliss passes out, he gets up and helps the Centaur move him out of the room..."Let's get him back to the barracks and then we'll both have a good night's sleep... When do we need to report in the morning?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) Thursday August 15th, 2013 5:01:35 PM
Nikolai listens to their sergeants' story quietly. Their actions show they care about others, a quality one has to have to be a good leader.
Sorry to see Bliss pass out so early, Nikolai looks for those bar games again. "They'll more likely drink more if we can engage them in some bar contest," he states.
OOC: if there are no bar games (darts, bean bag toss, etc) he will challenge anyone to an armwrestle contest. Looser buys the drink for the winner. If he looses often anough, the winners will be drunk. :)
to DM: if you feel you don't have time for this, I guess skip it.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Thursday August 15th, 2013 6:37:26 PM
Thanking Tinker for the towel, Linden gets the halfling onto his back, trying to avoid jarring movements, then he says a quick prayer to Flower. He holds his symbol tight. "This sacrifice is made." The cleric goes still for a moment. (OOC: DM Zach can take it from here if he wishes. Otherwise, I'll just play it out, as a pint MIGHT effect a centaur. :))
Bliss (Cayzle) Friday August 16th, 2013 9:53:23 AM
Bliss would be so grateful for the care of his friends, were he awake to be aware of it. But then he is awake! Linden has taken the worst of the ale's effects from the small halfling. He sits up in bed, rubs his eyes, and says, "Wowsy, I just had the strangest dream. Lindy, you were in it."
Bliss looks around at his friends. "And you -- and you -- and you -- and you were there."
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Friday August 16th, 2013 1:29:14 PM
"Course not Blizzard. That's 'bout as crazy as me havvin' horns!"
DM Zach -- Go Time. Friday August 16th, 2013 5:44:01 PM
Most of the group heads back for the night. Linden feels a little nauseous but for the most part... he is no worse for the wear.
Nikolai stays at the bar and plays some bar games. Darts and arm-wrestling seem to be the two favorites. He wins more than he loses at darts until he realizes that losing would get others to drink more. Several members of several fists are still drinking, even though many had the bright idea to head back early like your fist.
Nikolai finds that those that are still here are inebriated enough that his departing will have no effect on them at this point.
With the Team, complete with its Sergeants, safely tucked in for the evening, thoughts of what tomorrow might bring are on everyone's mind. Random snoring, especially from near Sgt Helmbanes rack can be heard but things are quiet... right up until 0130 hours. The loud, rapid knocks on the door and a folded piece of parchment with a red seal is pushed under the door. Sgt Trimmack jumps out of bed and opens the door, letting in just enough light to read the parchment. His eyes move rapidly across the parchment before calling out, "All right, its go time. We have 30 minutes to be in the Hall of Heroes. Get your gear and check over each other... is everyone good?"
Ok, be honest with yourself. If you think that your character should have a penalty, you apply it. No drinking would obviously be no penalty. Drank to a buzz, maybe a -1. Slightly intoxicated, -2, pretty drunk, -3, and obliterated say a -4. You know what your character would have been when you went to bed.
Also, please note that I may or may not post again this weekend. Either way, DM Ian will be talking over on Monday. A Great first two weeks guys and gals... let's keep it up.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Friday August 16th, 2013 6:12:43 PM
OOC: Honestly, I think because he meant to take on Bliss' effects, and he was role playing it out, I'll happily take -1, since Linden is a centaur, Bliss is a halfling, volume is what matters here I think. As cleric, he would clear all the effects. If Cayzle believes Bliss was worse off, I'll take on that penalty. :) This is a generous character.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Friday August 16th, 2013 6:14:52 PM
OOC: AH! But Linden had had a drink or two himself. I'll call it a -2, stacking it with Bliss'.
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Friday August 16th, 2013 8:04:46 PM
OOC: Some wine and a pint of ale shouldn't even dent the constitution of a Centaur.
Carver muscles himself up and pulls on his armor, buckling it up tight. He then begins to strap on his various weapons and his packs, never know what might be needed. Once he's ready, he'll offer to double check the others gear as long as someone checks his for him. With 10 minutes left Carver gets everyone moving towards the Great Hall.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Friday August 16th, 2013 8:31:36 PM
Pru stays at the Last Assignment for a little more than an hour after Linden and Bliss and the others leave. She finishes the ale that Sergeant Helmbane bought her, and then has one more. Or maybe two--who's counting? She doesn't pay for them, of course; Pru is a pretty girl in a mostly-male facility. She hasn't paid for her own drinks since she got here.
She chats easily with people, and watches the darts game for a little while. She calls up a Prestidigitation, and amuses herself by sending brightly-colored soap bubbles wafting through the room. She makes her way back to the team's quarters, planning to be in bed by 22:00, because surely, surely that's early enough to be bright and chipper in the morning. She moves quietly as she enters the quarters, conscious of her teammates already asleep. And how in the Wold had they managed to fall asleep so early? Pru is still keyed up and buzzing with excitement; even with all the ale in her, she knows she's going to have trouble sleeping.
She removes her tunic and boots, but decides to sleep in her chemise and trousers. She doesn't know who's going to be awake first, or what kind of state she'll be in when they are. Best to stay covered up, really.
She says her prayers, but she doesn't light her candle so as not to disturb her sleeping teammates. Tonight's silent prayers are for Flower, as they often are. Pru is a 17-year-old girl, so True Love is of interest to her. More than that, though, she prays that her parents will remember how much they love her, maybe enough to relent and allow her to come home again.
Then she slips into bed where, as she had feared, she lies awake for some time before she finally manages to drop off into sleep.
Being awakened at 01:30 makes her very cranky. "Oh, come on!" she grumbles as she gathers her boots. "I just took these off!" she says, stomping into them with perhaps more force than is strictly necessary. She tosses on her tunic, but does take time to make up her bunk. She has never failed an inspection, and she's not going to start now. She makes sure everything is tidy, and her tunic is smoothed down and looking respectable, before going to the weapons rack to grab her crossbow and spear.
"I swear you've gotten heavier," she grumbles to her spear as she lugs it away from the rack. "Nnhnn," she adds as she gets into position.
Aside from the still-sour expression on her face, Pru is ready to go. Her bunk is made, her foot locker is neat and tidy, her tunic is on and straight, her boots are still good, her weapons are well-cared for and properly carried. Her hair, freshly braided just yesterday, will stay looking decent for another couple of days at least. She's not happy to be turned out, but she is turned out properly.
I'm going to giver her a -2, though, because she is still feeling the effect of those drinks.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) Friday August 16th, 2013 8:59:02 PM
Exhuberated at his success in the bar games, Nikolai returns to their barracks. He accomplished an extra goal not thought of. He had intended to loose a lot but found it difficult to loose even to those not already drunk.
Having drunk very little himself, his mind felt sharp as he lay in bed thinking about the tests coming up. He finally dozed off but a few hours sleep later and he awakes with a start from the banging on the door.
He quickly slips out of his sleeping clothes and puts on his outdoor clothes and boots not even remembering that there was a girl in their barracks until the sounds of grumbling and stomping from the corner. He turns a little red as he is half dressed but notices Pru's not paying any attention.
Bed made and his corner in order, he slings on his two bandoleers containing his shuriken (five on each belt, crossed over his chest). Tightens his weapon's belt and heads out to form up.
He gave a sympathetic glance at Bliss and avoided Pru, making a mental note of the woman's disposition when awoken before her full allotment of beauty sleep for the night.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Friday August 16th, 2013 11:29:35 PM
He drops the halfling at his bunk and makes off to the centaur quarters.
Before bed, Linden stays up, revising things he's learned, or tried to learn, over the past three years. The centaur is one of those hapless last minute crammers. But the ale and pipe weed didn't help, he crashes pretty promptly just before coming to the section he REALLY needed to work on.
He is jarred from sleep by the pounding and such at 130. "Mellow my good fellow! Just chill. Up. UP!" The centaur may usually be the first to wake, but it's difficult for anyone to wake after 45 minutes of sleep... rest. A nap. That what this was. A nap... of sorts.
However, within minutes, the cleric is scrambling.
Bliss (Cayzle) Saturday August 17th, 2013 2:40:39 AM
Bliss falls back asleep, trying to refind his way to his dream. It had a witch, and a flying monkey. Or was it a talking raven?
When the call comes to wake for the contest, he finds himself, amazingly, refreshed and ready. He does not know that Linden took away all his ill effects. But he is glad to be ready to start! He gathers all his gear except for his crafting tools, which he stows in his box. Then he is off to begin.
OOC: Many thanks, Linden! :-)
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Saturday August 17th, 2013 5:34:27 AM
Cameron was raised in a meadery ( is that a word) and then by a dwarf. Last night he barely scratched the surface of his ability to drink. He hops out of bed and slips into his armor and gear. Since it is light he needs no help. Once his gear is on he moves over to the centaurs, both in medium armor and helps them tighten buckles and get things straight. He grabs his bow and quiver and weapons belt and is ready for the finals. Before leaving he prays to Pantheon to guide them today and show them the truth of how much they have learned in their training.
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Saturday August 17th, 2013 5:37:40 AM
OOC Will one Dm play the npc sergeants while the other DM's? or will the same DM run the game and play the sergeants. Mostly, will the sergeants be doing their command thing or be passive and do what we tell them I guess is my question.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14, hp 12/12 Saturday August 17th, 2013 10:08:01 AM
William is snoozing peacefully when the banging on the door wakes them all up... He drags himself out of bed, grabs his gear and makes sure his squadmates are up too... Once he's brushed his teeth and put his uniform on, put his weapons and spellbook where they go, he says a quick prayer for their success and safety... He offers to help check his mates gear too and asks them to check his...
Once done, he gets ready to head to the gathering place...
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) Saturday August 17th, 2013 7:23:03 PM
Not a drinker, Tinker only had some gulps of each of the two offered mugs and didn't finish either one, and it was off to bed early. The Zero-Dark-Thirty wake up call comes as little surprise to the dwarf, and he shrugs off the few hours of sleep as another training alert that they've all gone through in the last three years.
Long practice makes it less than a minute before the dwarf is dressed, leather armor on, weapons sheathed and ready. His urgosh is laying across his already packed backpack, and Tinker moves around to help out the more sleepy members of the Fists. "C'mon Pru! Up and ready! Splash some water Bliss and get a jump on! C'mon you apes, you wanna live forever?" He cheerfully prods everyone to movement and bleary-eyed alertness. :-)
.............
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Sunday August 18th, 2013 5:08:20 PM
Linden is dragging to get started.
DM Ian - Go Time Monday August 19th, 2013 1:14:34 AM
The newly formed Fists wake up in various states of disrepair.
Carver does not seem troubled at all by the previous night's exploits.
Prudence feels the effects of last night's drinking, but still manages to stay organized as she prepares.
Nikolai pulls himself together quickly, having drank very little the previous night. While he feels sympathetic for the halfling Bliss, he avoids Prudence's gaze, knowing she can be difficult without proper rest.
Linden had a bit too much fun last night, causing mild panic in the centaur as he rushes to catch up.
Bliss attempts to find his dream again (something about a man in a striped shirt with long claws) but is awoken much too soon.
Cameron, prideful in his ability to put away quite a bit of booze, takes some time to get his armor ready, uttering a short prayer for guidance.
William grabs his spellbook, dragging himself along behind everyone.
Tinker proves to be perhaps the only dwarf that does not drink, getting up in a flurry of exuberance.
The Fists make their way through the winding corridors of the Citadel, which they find are bustling with activity. While incredibly early in the morning, many of the new Fists seem to be up and moving. Some are more prepared than your group, having missed out on the celebration last night, but others you see are in a much more panicked state. Yelling and screaming seems to be overtaking the latter, and you all take a bit of pride in knowing that you are not as disorganized as some others.
The Hall of Heroes is packed, although not so much as it had been the previous day during the Forming of the Fists. Standing on a platform, as he had been the previous night, Field Marshall Major Pavillion Nuterius waits, observing the Fists as they slowly get into formation.
DC 10 Perception Highlight to display spoiler: {There are many Fists that are still missing, even though there are only five minutes left until the time everyone needs to be here. It seems that the previous night's drinking has taken its toll.}
The Sergeants Helmbane and Trimmack organize you all into the proper configuration. Both glance at each other, sharing a look, and turn to look around at the bustling activity all around them.
DC 15 Sense Motive Highlight to display spoiler: {Both Sergeants seem proud that their Fists are well-organized enough to already be here.}
Hello everyone! Spells prepared yesterday are still prepared, as you only had half an hour to get to the Hall of Heroes. My posts will usually come in very early (going by EST) so everyone can have most of the day to post. I'm really excited to start DMing again, so if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask!
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) d20+3=6 ; d20+7=8 ; Monday August 19th, 2013 1:35:29 AM
Linden doesn't notice much, but it seems like the Sergeants are watching him ALL THE TIME...
(Perception 6, Sense Motive 8, -2 from last night)
His eyes dart back and forth waiting for the hammer to drop...
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) d20=12 ; d20=11 ; Monday August 19th, 2013 6:32:10 AM
Carver chivies the others into a line up of sorts, mostly arranged by height. With the Sargent on one side, the other three shortest to tallest lined up front to back and himself to the other side of the three from the Sargent. "Bliss, no sleep walking right now." He whispers to the little guy as he lowered himself and bent over to speak to him.
Perception (12)
To the rest of the group,"Seems like all the Ale and Wine might have had the desired effect on the other fists. There's still quite a few missing from formation, but there is still time to get here."
Sense Motive (11)
Carver looks at the Sargents to be sure that the formation he's put them in is acceptable, and misses the look of pride from them.
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) d20+2=17 ; d20=17 ; Monday August 19th, 2013 8:08:13 AM
Perception 17 Sense motive 17 Good news and better news greets Cameron as he enters the Hall of Heroes this morning. He notes that his group is all assembled but that several, almost many of the other new fists are nor. He lines up next to Bliss and points this out. Looking around he catches Sgt Trimmak and Helmsbane looking at one another and notes the glimmer of pride in their eye. Their Fists were doing well and towing the line, the Sergeants practically glowed with pride. He quietly points this out to the others and then stands ready for the Field Marshall to get the morning rolling and tell them their tasks for Finals.
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+6=15 ; d20+2=19 ; Monday August 19th, 2013 9:45:17 AM
Tinker stands where indicated, one hand stroking the hard haft of his Urgosh, his heavy pack not slowing him down. His eyes alight, he nods at Carver's assessment and also notices the proud glances of SGTs Trimmack and Helmbane. "Willakkers!", he softly utters the hardest profanity of his foster-mother. "It must be something about early in the morning that sharpens my gaze!" Tinker knows he would never normally care to notice such things as what others are thinking about!
...................
(ooc: non-drinking dwarf. I figured, why go for the obvious cliche'? :-) Anyways, he does drink, just not much.)
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) d20-2=14 ; d20-2=17 ; Monday August 19th, 2013 11:14:34 AM
It's official--Pru hates being chivvied into formation in the middle of the ever-loving night. And the ales she'd downed earlier don't help matters.
Still, there are others in worse shape. Pru notices that some Fists aren't even here, while others seem to be doing a lot of running and panicking. Pru herself is yawning and stumbling, but even so, she notices that the sergeants seem pleased. Which, surely, is a break for everyone.
As they move into the hall, Pru concentrates on holding her longspear at the proper angle, so that it doesn't accidentally poke anybody. Or rather, so it wouldn't accidentally poke anyone who was moving properly, with sufficient care, which isn't always the case. "Holding a polearm here," she says as a panicky recruit brushes too close.
In position at last, Pru places the butt of the spear on the ground and looks around her. And if she is using the spear just a teensy bit to steady herself--well, she's not the only one in the hall resorting to such tricks.
[OOC: I assume the -2 applies to all d20 rolls?]
DM Ian That would be correct, yes.
Bliss (Cayzle) d20+8=9 ; d20+2=5 ; Monday August 19th, 2013 12:39:09 PM
OOC: Perception 9, untrained sense motive 5.
Bliss is still woolgathering, and does not notice anything about the scene in the Hall of Heroes or about the sergeants. He's trying to figure out who or what that man with the striped claws was, in his dream. No wait, that wasn't it ...
Luckily, Carver nudges him out of his reverie in time to take his place and come to attention. Thanks to Linden's kind healing help, Bliss is feeling fine and ready to go! He checks his back pocket for his slingshot, and is glad to find it ready for use.
[OOC: Checked my sheet and caught a mistake. Slingshot damage (ie, sling damage) applies a -1 Str penalty, so Bliss is 1d4+1, not 1d4+2 on slingshot bullets.]
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) d20+9=14 ; d20+7=13 ; Monday August 19th, 2013 6:51:11 PM
Perc +9 DC10 = 14 Sense Mot +7 DC15 = 13
Nikolai follows Carver's suggested line-up, shorter ones in front, taller ones in back, that allows everyone to see the sergeants and the sergeants them.
He easily notices that not all the Fists are present yet, but is busy making sure his weapons are in order and his bandoleers are in place to notice Sgts Helmbane and Trimmack's looks.
Nikolai smiles with pride at their organization and preparedness, but keeps any thoughts of an easy victory pushed away.
DM Ian - Go Time Tuesday August 20th, 2013 12:23:00 AM Linden sees nothing, hears nothing, and says nothing, terrified that the Sergeants are staring at him.
Carver arranges the others in a proper order, taking note of the other Fists' weaknesses.
Cameron takes pride in his Fist's organization, standing at the ready for whatever comes next.
Tinker quietly exclaims surprise as his own ability to perceive, and receives a sharp look from Trimmack. It seems the Sergeant's ears are even sharper than the dwarf's.
Prudence manages to keep herself upright, though not for lack of others trying. It seems that very few people knew what they're doing.
Bliss is still distracted by his dreams, but manages to snap to attention with the help of Carver.
Nikolai tries not to let the easy victory over the others get to his head, trying to keep his eyes forward.
William seems to be a bit more affected from the drink than he thought...
As the time comes and goes that all of the Fists are supposed to be in formation, the Hall of Heroes is still bustling with activity. And yet, an incredibly calm Field Marshall Major waits, gazing upon his future soldiers and mercenaries. The Fists note that his predecessor, Thankasis Fokos, is absent. Perhaps they gave him the night off.
Finally, fifteen minutes after the designated arrival time, the last Fist falls into position with much hustling and bustling. There is absolute silence as Pavillon Nuterius overlooks the newest Fists with a mixture of respect... and disdain.
"All of those that have arrived late," he called out through the hall. His booming voice has no problem carrying throughout the entire room. "Will have twenty points docked from their final score. You must always be prepared for battle, even if it means waking up after a night of drinking and carousing to something unexpected." His face darkens as he continues. "If this were a real assignment, most of you would be dead."
A shiver goes through the crowd. Your young leader is quite the speaker, as many of you feel a chill run down your spine.
""Now, onto business. Your first test has come. Many of you have come armed to the teeth, rattling about in plate armour, carrying cumbersome weapons and useless items. All of these will prove to be impractical for your next test. Your Sergeants will be given directions to your individual training grounds, where you will receive further instruction and a chance to prepare." With a slight shake of his head, he adds, "And may the Gods grant you all luck. You will be needing it."
And with that, Field Marshall Major Pavillon Nuterius struts from the stage, storming out of the Hall of Heroes, leaving you all to wonder what may come next. Uniformed scribes begin handing out scrolls to the Sergeants, and Trimmack and Helmbane take theirs eagerly.
"Training Ground 42..." Trimmack mutters, looking over the scroll with his dwarven counterpart. "So, they have us doing the stealth test first, I see. Best prepare yourselves accordingly, Trimmack comments.
"Best get movin'," Helmbane growls, looking around. "People are startin' to move, we don't want to get caught up in the bottleneck."
Your Sergeants lead you quickly from the hall, weaving through the hallways as they dodge through slow-moving crowds and hungover Fists.
Everyone! Please make a DC 13 Skill check to get through the crowd! This could be anything from Acrobatics, to Escape Artist, to Knowledge: Local! As long you roleplay it out properly, almost any skill can apply to this challenge. Get creative enough, or roll high enough, and it might earn yourself a Hero Point!
Careful... roll low or roleplay poorly, and your Fists will reach your testing site late. You wouldn't want to leave a bad impression on the Judges!
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) d20+3=18 ; d20+7=22 ; Tuesday August 20th, 2013 5:59:41 AM
Actions: Hold Action to see what team mates do... may assist accordingly. (Perception 18, Sense Motive 22) Holding to Aid Another, Granted Power, doubles aid to +4 for skills as well.
OOC: Assuming it requires an attack roll, this might be FUN!! ;)
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) d20+4=7 ; d20+4=13 ; Tuesday August 20th, 2013 8:20:17 AM
Cameron thinks back to his youth, where his mother ran an Inn while his father made Honey Mead. They had been adventurers, but had retired to raise a family. What turns a room full of drunks into a den of chaos, with minimal casulties? He thought. It took only a moment to remember one of the most spectacular and messy memories he had. When he was 4, his father had decided to hold a Mead drinking contest. Many scoffed at mead, feeling it held no real alcohol content. It was made from honey after all. So his father made a contest of it, whomever could drink the most mead and still walk the length of the bar would win. After each drink, the contestant hopped up onto the bar and had to walk it's length. Quickly the field narrowed until IT happened. One halfling, about 6 pints in, got up onto the bar and suddenly turned green. He swooned, and then turned and vomited into the bar area. The other patrons, who had been doing their best to keep their mead down began a chain reaction and ALL of the patrons, already drunk, started to empty their stomachs. The mess was remarkable. If Cameron could replicate that here it would cause a huge distraction, allowing the others to make their way out a side door and to the assembly area while the rest of the drunkards were held up. Linden looked willing to help, so it was only up to Cameron to sell the scene. " Linden, hurry with me to the main entrance to the hall. The rest of you head for a side door, We will catch up... I hope" Cameron explains his plan to Linden as they move towards the front. He might need help on his acting, he had never tried this before, or maybe his bluffing. Hmm lots of ways this could go wrong, he started to notice now, oh well he was commited. Once near the front he swoons a little, making a scene. He had been drunk before so this was not hard he then proceeded to make his mostly calm stomach ( he had not had too much booze to handle last night, but enough to still have some on board) hitch and empty on the floor. He shouldn't need to sell that he was sick now, but he put the extra effort in and hoped it made the other drunkards sick too. Perform (acting drunk) untrained 7 ( probably the best roll to assist me on if you can Linden) Bluff (to sell the lie) untrained 13 ( remember bonuses for viewers wanting to believe ( +5) and being drunk (+5)though not all are drunk, and you possess compelling proof (+10) right there on the floor . I didn't add these since they are up to the DM's discretion.)
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+7=12 ; d20+7=17 ; Tuesday August 20th, 2013 9:41:47 AM
Tinker zips it as Trimmack gives him the 'look', and stands at a modified attention until dismissed by the Field Marshal Major. The dwarf grumbles a little at the implied rebuke of carrying too much as the group starts out of the Hall. "And if we weren't ready, he would have called us out on THAT, too!"
Tinker tries to weave his way out of the hall, sliding through some gaps, but his backpack banging into others. When that doesn't work, he merely slips through, deftly untangling himself from the pile-ups in the corridors.
"C'mon Cameron, don't fall behind!", Tinker calls out to the little halfling. All the while, Tinker reminds himself that with a shrug of the shoulders he can drop the backpack and the urgosh goes to the floor, and he will be ready as he can for any stealth test.
....................................
Acrobatics - 12 Escape Artist - 17
Bliss (Cayzle) d20+15=18 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+4=18 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+3=6 ; Tuesday August 20th, 2013 10:10:27 AM
Bliss gets it right away! It is a contest! Like a game! Who can be the first to get to the Training Ground first? He pauses for a moment to think about it. He has to sneak around and find a way through this tangle of legs. He has to jump and tumble around obstacles -- like the puddle on the floor Cam just made! Wowsy! He drank too much. Bliss is SO Lucky that Lindy healed him! But most of all, Bliss will have to dance around and about to get through first.
[OOC: Kindly DM, Bliss is rolling four skill checks, but if you really only want one, it is the Perform Dance that really fits best. Sadly, that's also his worst check!]
Before he heads off, Bliss sees Linden hesitate. "Good luck, Lindy!" he shouts. "Don't miss the race!"
Bliss sneaks around the crowd, avoiding eyes, skirting the other cadets. Stealth check 18.
Then he looks around for the best way through, alert to people moving in his way. Perception check 13.
He jumps over that puddle on the floor. Untrained Acrobatics check 18.
And he dances and twirls and pirouettes around legs and feet and through doors and corridors. Perform Dance check 7. Ugh! Bliss uses a hero point to reroll his check, trying harder than ever to win the race. Second Perform Dance check 6. Double Plus UGH!
Bliss bumps into the people who do not see him (he is stealthy but not graceful). He sees the feet and boots as he trips over them (he is perceptive but clumsy). And he jumps over the puddle only to fall on his face past it! (good at hopping but not at watching where his feet go, alas).
[Hero Point removed from sheet. :-( ]
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) d20+2=19 ; Tuesday August 20th, 2013 11:40:00 AM
Pru can't help but feel a little proud of herself and the rest of the team. They'd made it here on time, arranged themselves in formation, and had been ready to go. She was glad to be with a group that took this all seriously.
You must always be prepared for battle, the Field Marshall Major says. Pru feels an uneasy knot develop in her stomach. Always? Like, always always? She wonders yet again if she really understood what she was letting herself in for.
Many of you have come armed to the teeth, rattling about in plate armor, carrying cumbersome weapons and useless items. Pru is beginning to feel a little cross. Of course she had brought her weapons! With a shudder, she remembers what had happened the one time she had not brought her spear to training because it was big and awkward and she "wouldn't need it anyway." She'd done pushups clear through dinner. Leave it behind again? Yeah, not going to happen.
But soon they are dismissed, to find their own way to the test location. Acting on instinct, Pru turns on the charm.
"Excuse me, can I get through here?"
"Whoops, sorry! Ha-ha, quite a mob scene."
"Markus, hey! Crowded enough for you? Can I just squeeze by?"
"Can I just slip behind you here...thanks."
"Hi, Pete! Can I just slide past you here?"
...and so on, working closer to the door. Despite being tipsy--or possibly because of it--she negotiates her way through the room with ease.
[Untrained Diplomacy 19]
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) d20+4=16 ; Tuesday August 20th, 2013 12:22:38 PM
Carver, taking his cue from Cameron, heads for the side door, but he has plans of his own to get the group out as well."Just follow in my wake, I'll make a hole and get us out." he says just loud enough for the group to hear. He starts moving that way and once he gets bumped into a couple times it's time to put his plan into action. As he gets bumped into the next time, he shouts out "HEY! watch where you're stomping." As he shouts it out, he rears up and slams his shod hooves onto the floor, making a loud wham. He gives a harsh look at anyone and everyone that even appears to want to encroach on his space as he moves to the exit. He repeats the rearing and stomping as needed keeping the group moving towards the side door.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) d20-3=16 ; Tuesday August 20th, 2013 4:16:37 PM Spells and Things
Linden grins at the challenge Cam has presented him. "You got it!"
Still a little off from last evening, the cleric does what he can. (Aid roll, SUCCESS!! 16... +4 to Cam's Performance)
He claps a hand on the halfling's shoulder. "What's that Cam?! Your going to blow chunks? Look, the last time, we were cleaning up that little old man apron and shoes for hours. Please, like, excuse us and stuff. My friend here is going to blow chunks." The centaur waves his arms around, talking loudly, shooing folks out of his way. It was easy acting like a concerned friend and citizen.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14, hp 12/12 d20+8=10 ; d20+3=8 ; d20+2=5 ; d20+2=8 ; d20+2=5 ; d20=11 ; d20+8=13 ; Tuesday August 20th, 2013 8:37:46 PM (Sorry about missing Monday's posts... They are crazy busy days catching up from Sunday's worship service and then we have Krav Maga with my oldest son immediately after work until usually 9 or later.... We can't access game sites from church so ... usually I'll miss Monday's post but try to make up for it Tue ams...)
Standing with his group, William hears the leaders comments about armor not being helpful in this trial and chuckles, knowing that issues related to wearing armor will never be a problem for him...
As the others in his fist head out, he'll follow close behind, letting the bigger ones lead the way in front of him... He'll find the closest, biggest companion and stick close... Perc = 8
If anyone bumps him or gets in his way, he'll use his knowledge of spellcraft to cast a slight cantrip to create the sound of an angry sergeant or officer yelling, "Get out of my way you runts unless you want to fail your test!" Spellcraft = 10...
When that doesn't work, he tries to use his acrobatics to get around or under the nearest group... Acrobatics - 5
(how can you roll a 2, 5 and then 3????)
Undaunted (and living up to his title of courageous), he tries to use his escape artist to slip past anyone who bars his path... 8...
Still not giving up... he tries to determine who's going where and then he'll manage to avoid the biggest crowd... Sense Motive 5... (rolled a 3)...
He'll start bellowing curses at those in front of him to move out of his way... Intim = 11... but that doesn't work either...
And for his final effort (Ok, is the roller messed up or what????)... he'll start cursing in foreign tongues, hoping that the odd words get the attention of passerby's, thus distracting them and causing them to slow down and see what those odd words are ... and then he'll do his best to get past them ... Linguistics = 13... Yeah!!!
(OOC - Can we get a reminder of who's in what team?)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) d20+9=16 ; d10=4 ; d20+2=5 ; d20+9=13 ; Tuesday August 20th, 2013 9:45:13 PM
OOC: what Nikolai would like to do is put Pru no Carver's back and have her remove her top, then with her bared chest and her Charm, we should make it through the crowd easily. :} Alas, that idea might get a slap from Pru. Nikolai would offer to do it but it wouldn't have the same effect.
IC: Nikolai tries to get his Fist to form up and create a wedge formation, with the centaurs in front, the little guys in the middle, and the others at the edges, but everyone seems to break and go one way or another. Cameron and Linden seem to have some plan and move off to the main entrance. Pru works her way through using some of her girlish charms. Bliss also slips off into the crowd as well as Tinker. William seems to be getting bounced around a lot and not getting very far and in danger of getting lost into the blob of people.
Carver seems to have had the same strategic idea and grabs ahold of a strap for his gear and then reaches out to grap William. Acrobatics +9 = 16.
Carver, working his way in the crowed, assisted by Nikolai (Aid Another = 4) while he keeps a firm grip on William (STR = 5) shoves his way alongside Carver.
If he feels things falling appart, he will just attempt to get past it all on his own. (Acrob +9 = 13)
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday August 21st, 2013 9:00:49 AM
Tinker hears Carver's plan and immediately sees the value in working as a team. He slips back to the centaur's side, collecting Cameron and Bliss to the shelter of the centaurs if he can, and uses his ability to escape sticky situations to keep himself and the other smaller members of the Fists moving forward.
In the excitement of moving, Tinker also forgot that they are a TEAM now, and Trimmack and Helmbane are the leaders. He jumps to look around trying to catch the eye of the sergeants so they are all going in the same direction!
DM Ian - Go Time Wednesday August 21st, 2013 11:04:16 AM Cameron pushes to the front door, doubling over quickly as people try to push past. With the help of Linden, many people stop around them, clutching their stomachs. While none seem ill enough to actually do anything about it, they have most definitely stopped in their tracks. A success for Cameron and Linden! Cameron, please add one Hero Point to your sheet! If you already have one, then this Hero Point MUST be used during your next encounter!
Tinker tries to slip through the crowd, but finds himself pushed around far too easily. He quickly dips down a side hallway, managing to catch up with his Fist. He also sees that the Sergeants seem to be stopping and going quite a bit, having to wait for you all to catch up. A success for Tinker!
Bliss tries his best, managing to dodge through legs of those that tower over him, but quickly realizes that the fast movement is making him a bit dizzy. Upon attempting to dance, he falls flat on his face, arriving to the training grounds with a bloody nose. That is a tentative success from Bliss.
Prudence uses her feminine wiles to slip through the crowd, getting her to the Training Grounds just after the Sergeants arrive! A success for Prudence! Please add one Hero Point to your sheet! If you already have one, then this Hero Point MUST be used during your next encounter!
People scatter as Carver shouts over the din of the crowd. No one attempts to get in his way as he strides through the halls with ease.
William, frustrated with his multiple failures, finally begins speaking in tongues, remembering every curse word he's heard during his time at the Citadel. A few turn their heads, but many of his words simply fall upon deaf ears uttering the same ones. And William pulls through at the last second!
Nikolai wants to attempt some strategy, but is dismayed to see that his Fist has other plans in mind. Grabbing his ally William, he pulls him along with a good deal of effort. They both arrive at the training grounds out of breath, but on time. And a success for Nikolai!
The Sergeants are already there when you reach the front door, eager to move you along quickly to your proper training grounds. Looking around, you see many people scrambling to do the same, but what is most alarming is the state of the training grounds.
While still within the walls of the Citadel, the grounds are outdoors. The night sky is clear, showing a full complement of stars scatted across the dark tapestry. The rough ground ,usually packed down with the constant training of hundreds of recruits, is now broken up with what can only be described as... debris.
Burnt shells of buildings, enormous rocks, and even a few shacks that still stand are scattered throughout the usually empty grounds, making navigation quite difficult. The Fists weave through the maze of objects, arriving next to a small wooden sign stuck in the ground, painted with the number 42.
Three figures dressed in very nice attire stand behind the sign, eyeing you all carefully. Trimmack turns around quickly, shouting, "Fists! Atten-TION!"
The Fists are as follows...
Under Sergeant Trimmack are Recruits Daemer, Gundle, Komonov, and Linden.
Under Sergeant Helmbane are Recruits Steelshaper, Carver, William, and Bliss.
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Wednesday August 21st, 2013 11:06:19 AM
OOC This is kinda why I wanted to know if the sergeants are going to actively command us or not. It is all well and good to be in a unit, but if the figurehead that is supposed to be giving orders is an NPC and because of that is leaving how a job gets done to us we kinda need to know that as players. For example, a perfectly logical response to yesterday's situation would have been every one of us standing there looking expectantly at our sergeants for direction. Its not flashy, but it is kinda how a unit should react to the situation. Right?
DM Ian This will be addressed in tomorrow's post.
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Wednesday August 21st, 2013 11:26:51 AM
Cameron lines up with his fist and snaps to an inspection perfect attention and holds it until instructed otherwise.
Assuming that instructions about the exercise are about to be given, what follows are a summary of the questions Cameron may have so that they can be addressed without wasting a days posts doing so.
Is this a live fire exercise? for example, if reaching the other side of the training ground is the goal, is eliminating spotters allowed? Will we be shot if spotted?
Will we be continuing on from the other side of the training course (or whatever point we are to reach) directly or will dropped packs and discarded armor be allowed to be retrieved?
If we were at the retirement party is our heroes feast in effect now or should we be saving it for a "real" encounter? ( as far as I can guess, the extra hp will not be of much use to us here.)
DM Ian It should be saved until a "real" encounter, which your kindly DMs will inform you of when it comes time.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14, hp 12/12 Wednesday August 21st, 2013 2:47:09 PM (OOC - DM, I like the skills challenge you just ran us through and keep it up! Great and novel way to run an adventure ;))) )
William thanks Nikolai for his timely help and then joins his own Fist by the sign... He stands at attention when the sergeant yells, making sure that he's aligned correctly...
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Wednesday August 21st, 2013 4:47:51 PM
When they arrive at the site, Pru scrambles to get with the rest of her Fist: Nikolai, Tinker, and Linden. At the sergeant's call, she comes to attention, wondering what the test entails.
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Wednesday August 21st, 2013 5:30:37 PM
Carver, not quite ready to start stripping off his armor, he stands waiting for what to do....
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Wednesday August 21st, 2013 6:23:51 PM
Linden moves with his squad and joins Trimmack. He positions and then, as he usually does, comes to a relaxed attention. Nothing disrespectful or slouchy, but not stiff.
The centaur cleric is rarely 'prepared' for combat, so he wasn't wearing his armor this morning. Besides, it would have taken longer to get out the door. He ruffles his hair back into place, having to be hunched over a halfling musses hair. His eyes soon start wandering as he waits for Trimmack to start up. He watches a particularly interesting cloud pass behind a building and reappear on the other side in a completely different shape. This makes the centaur grin, then snicker.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) d20+9=25 ; Wednesday August 21st, 2013 10:42:15 PM
Nikolai would like to give the group a lecture on tactics but shruggs it off. 'It's Sgt Trimmack's job for lectures, not mine,' he muses as he looks around at the obstacle course as they pass through it.
Perc +9 = 25
He gets in line behind the shorter Pru and snaps to attention at Sgt Trimmack's order.
Bliss (Cayzle) Thursday August 22nd, 2013 8:40:53 AM
Blink falls in fast, one hand holding his slingshot, the other pinching his nose. His eyes are shiny, but he is determined not to cry.
He does see that there are three people waiting for him -- the two seargents and one more person. "Who's that?" he wonders mentally, but standing at attention, he knows better than to give voice to his thoughts.
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday August 22nd, 2013 12:29:46 PM
Tinker moves with his squad and joins Trimmack. He positions himself in line with the others, coming to a stiff attention with Sergeant Trimmack giving the first ever order since they've been together!
DM Ian - Go Time Thursday August 22nd, 2013 2:31:59 PM Incoming...
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Thursday August 22nd, 2013 2:52:10 PM
... ?
DM Ian - The First Exam Thursday August 22nd, 2013 4:00:27 PM
As the recruits fall into order, they try not to let their eyes wander, staring straight ahead as their Sergeants step forward. The three figures dressed in fine uniforms befitting their rank in the Citadel eye you all carefully, taking notes on small clipboards they each carry. There is a male elf with piercing green eyes, a human woman with bright blonde hair, and a male gnome, grinning widely.
DC20 Perception Highlight to display spoiler: {The elf is shooting daggers at Linden as he snickers.}
DC 17 Sense Motive Highlight to display spoiler: {They seem... unimpressed.}
"Sergeant Trimmack, reporting for duty!"
Sergeant Helmbane, reporting for duty!"
The elf takes his time looking at each of you before speaking. "You're late." Helmbane opens his mouth to say something, but the elf stops him with a raised hand. "There is no time for excuses." Looking up from the fuming dwarf, the elf launches into what is clearly a memorized speech.
"In the field, you will be faced with many challenges. These final exams will determine whether or not your time here has actually been worth anything. For your first exam, your goal will be stealth and infiltration." He gestures to the ground behind him, pointing out bright white lines that have been painted on the ground. "Behind me, there is a small field that has been marked for your test. In that area, there is a small building, and inside that building, there is a scroll. Bring that scroll to me within the time limit, and you will receive full points."
The elf takes a moment to eye each of you carefully before continuing. "Fail... and you will likely receive a low final placement, and the downsides associated with that. In your training ground, you will find many guards attempting to thwart you. In fact..." You see the elf smile for the first time, but it is most certainly not a happy smile -- at least not for the lot of you. "...they are also competing for points. The guards you will be facing are two more Fists."
Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Trimmack and Helmbane shoot each other a panicked look.}
"This is not a live fire exercise. I cannot stress that enough. The guards have been equipped with wooden swords and blunted arrows. If, at any point, they catch up to you, or manage to hit you, it will require you to leave the marked area and return to the starting point. There will, of course, be a penalty for this. You are not to harm the guards in any lethal manner. However, there are other ways to incapacitate your enemies."
The gnome pipes up with an almost comically high voice, saying, "If it has not yet been explained to you, your Sergeants will not be participating in the exercise itself. While they can offer advice and counsel in your preparation time, they cannot partake in the exam. You have five minutes to strategize and prepare yourselves. And before you ask, no, you may not look at the course itself before beginning -- in the field, you must learn to roll with the punches, as it were." He continues to beam widely, although his grin is much happier than the elf's.
"Your five minutes begin now," the woman concludes. "Anything you drop or remove can be retrieved at the end of the exam. If you have any questions, please address them to me."
Your characters now have five minutes in-game to prepare themselves for the upcoming trial! Remember, folks, stealth is key! But just because you don't have a high DEX, doesn't mean you won't be useful! Distractions will be important...
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Thursday August 22nd, 2013 4:31:46 PM
Pru sets her spear and crossbow on the ground, and gathers up with her teammates.
"All I have is live fire," she grouses under her breath.
"But I do have this one spell called Dancing Lights. I can use it to make pretty much any sized light I like, and move it around. I thought that, for a diversion, I could make a small, faint light. Like maybe we were sneaking around using a hooded lantern and trying not to be seen." She sighs. "I can't make any noise to go with it, unfortunately. William, I don't suppose you've got a Ghost Sound prepared?"
Bliss (Cayzle) Thursday August 22nd, 2013 5:14:12 PM
Bliss thinks hard about this. He speaks up with the confidence of someone who is confident in his abilities and has never failed in a significant way. Despite his bloody nose.
"Hey! Hey, you guys! I'm good at sneaking. I have some ideas. That's what I know about."
"You gotta have something to hide in, like mist or shadows or smoke. Or you gotta have something to hide behind, like anything you can hide behind. You guys can help."
"Miss Prudence, you can make fire, right? So set stuff on fire. Just not the other people. That will make smoke, and I can hide in it."
"Brave William, you can summon something small, right?"
"I'm small, right? Take a sack, and put me in it. Get three more sacks. Put straw or clothes in two of them and set those two on fire. Put the small thing William summoned in the other sack. Lindy and Carver, you are big and strong and fast, right? Each of you can carry a burning sack and a creature sack and get as close as you can get to the hut. When you get caught or to the hut, drop the sacks, draw weapons, and pretend to fight or something. The point is, you get me and smoke to the hut asap. Under the cover of the smoke, I crawl out and sneak to the hut and the scroll."
"Meanwhile, everyone else is pretending to try to get to the hut, getting caught, getting sent back, and like that. AND Nick and Cam, since you are sneaky too, you try to sneak up. If you get caught, that seems like we missed. If you don't, that's okay in case I get caught."
"Tinker I dunno what you can do, but maybe distract them with throwing things or something."
"What do you guys think?"
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14, hp 12/12 d20+3=15 ; d20+2=15 ; Thursday August 22nd, 2013 5:31:01 PM
William looks at each of the three figures (Perc = 15 ; SM = 15) but doesn't notice anything that he'd remember...
However, he does catch the nervous glances and his heart starts to beat more and more...
While the group strategizes, he offers, "Yes, I can summon twice by using my spell and a bonded ring... The creatures would be a dire rat, a dog, an eagle, a fire beetle, poisonous frog, pony and viper. However, they'll only be here for 2 rounds, so we need to save them for a battle... On the other hand, we could use the eagle to fly and grab the scroll in 1 round, and bring it back in the next... Or drop a pony somewhere to block their way from getting to you or maybe you could ride it to move quickly past the guards? Either way, I can cast it 2x.... Also, I could try to use my staff to keep the guards from touching me with their swords, but they're more skilled than I am..."
(OOC - So what're the rules for trying to evade someone's touch, maybe while using a staff to keep them at bay since you have a longer reach? Is it like using a weapon defensively to boost up your AC?)
He'll also get ready to cast Mage Armor to help boost his AC to avoid touches...
Spells Memorized 0 - Acid Splash, Light, Mage Hand 1 - SM 1, PfE, Mage Armor
Items to Use 1. Bonded ring - recast any spell cast today...
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) d20+9=14 ; d20+7=17 ; d20+9=11 ; Thursday August 22nd, 2013 8:53:26 PM
1st Perc = 14 Sense Motive = 17 2nd Perc = 11
Nikolai notices that the three are not impressed by his two Fists. Nor is he, he admits. But just as much for his own inexperience as for that of his friends.
He starts divesting himself of his weapons belts and backpack. While his friends discuss ideas surrounding burning sacks, he takes his silk rope over his shoulder and takes his caltrop sack and ties it to his white Novice Monk belt.
"A distraction is definitely in order. But those doing the distracting don't need engage the guards directly. Remember our defense classes and how we learned to defend only (Tota Defense)? That would stall the guards for some time, I hope.
Meanwhile, if there is, and probably will be, a guard in the shack with the scroll, a viper slithering towards the guard may be all we need to snatch the scroll and skeedaddle out of there."
The plan is to ammend Bliss's idea by taking Pru, William, Tinker, Cameron, and himself in a separate group while the other, larger ones go with Bliss and activate that portion of the plan.
The idea is to use Tinker to slow any guards that group meets while Pru uses her lights to try to bring any guard out from hiding. Nikolai and Cameron can hold the silk rope across the shack door while William summons a viper to go after the guard and snatch the scroll. When the guard comes chasing William he'll be tripped up by the silk rope. If there are more than one guard in the shack, Pru can help divert the other's attention.
He'll keep his caltrops in reserve for emergencies.
AC 17(19 w/shield), TAC 11, FFAC 15 (17 w/shield), (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Thursday August 22nd, 2013 9:24:22 PM
"Whatever." He shrugs at Bliss' suggestion. "I can't really help with spells, cus all mine last too little time. As for stealth, I can Aid Another but that's bit fleeting. I have hooves and I'm big. Apart from that..." He lets the matter hang. "But I'm in."
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Thursday August 22nd, 2013 9:52:21 PM "I think the best use of me is to take the burning sack or three and circle around at full speed, no attempt at being silent. dropping a couple of the burners as i go along. The last bag, the one with Bliss I'll drop after i get tagged out. And I'll walk back right through the middle of the area, they'll keep their eyes on me as I move along. Maybe Bliss can hide in one of my saddle bags... Up to you."
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Thursday August 22nd, 2013 11:07:59 PM
As soon as the rules are being announced Cameron starts undoing the laces in his chain shirt, Since this is tag, the armor will only slow down his stealth. He keeps his pack and produces tindertwigs for starting the fire. " Getting tagged out is bad, don't let it happen. Look at this the way they intend it, tagged is dead. I concur with Linden and Carver moving fast and causing chaos, that gives us stealthers a shot. Whoever feel up to being sneaky can try for the house, but the farther in any of us small folk get dropped the better since we are slower too. Show of hands, who is confident the can sneak in there? Second showing who wants to be a diversion? Once one of us has the scroll we might need an extraction. You centaurs try not to hurt folks when you bowl them over, OK? Do any of our casters know daze or flare? those would be useful for blinding guards and allowing the stealthers just a bit more chance to dodge a blow." Cameron raises his hand for stealthing in. His father's blood has been running high in his veins the past couple of days, and a smile his mother would remember well plays across his lips.
Cameron's touch AC will be 14 vs small opponents and 15 vs anyone larger than that His stealth check is at +7
AC 12, TAC 11, FFAC 10, (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Friday August 23rd, 2013 12:19:33 AM
"Well, um, broskees... I hate to bum this brain drain, but I think even trampling around and causing havoc will fail us just on principle." The centaur scratches his chin. "I like the smoke idea though. Is there any way to create a darker smoke? I know when the druids wanted to keep off the flies, they would create darker smoke. Damp moss or something... maybe damp hay. As for dazing, I have pipe weed." The corner of his mouth raises. "And some good wine in my locker in the barracks."
(OOC: Just realized I prepped Shield Other as my domain, but it is a redundant spell given the Granted Power of SacBond. Let's forget the fact that he doesn't even have the Focus purchased yet! Would have prepped CLW in Domain if I was thinking. After this Test and before adventuring, I'm rereading them carefully!!)
AC 12, TAC 11, FFAC 10, (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Friday August 23rd, 2013 12:31:05 AM
"Remember, stealth is key. And the scroll is important. What is the scroll? I know it's a test, but maybe they are looking at how we solve this too. Bribing one of the guards. Fabricating a scroll. I like the summoned owl idea, but for a distraction more than anything else. Ghost Sound too. "
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Friday August 23rd, 2013 9:44:08 AM " Bribing them won't work, they are competing the same as us. Would you settle for a crap posting for the next three years for whatever we could give you here and now? If one of our two fastest people doesn't want to be a distraction then I guess with sneaking out for you, you could just smoke a bowl and chill. Denser smoke would be better but remember we still need to get it out there and it will help them sneak up on us too. "
Bliss (Cayzle) Friday August 23rd, 2013 10:24:22 AM
Bliss is happy that his ideas are getting some traction. He agrees that no one should TRY to get caught. "Sure, right," he says, "Even a centaur might get lucky and stay hid as they hoof it towards the hut."
Then he thinks of something. "Um, does anyone have any bags?"
DM Ian - The First Exam Friday August 23rd, 2013 10:27:17 AM
As the Fists plan, their Sergeants fall in with them, listening to their plans. Trimmack speaks first, saying, "Summoning something would be an excellent distraction. I can't imagine they would see that coming. And I don't think that using your pipe weed will bring us any benefits, Recruit." He eyes Linden distastefully, turning to Helmbane.
"Summoning? You don't need fancy magic for this," the dwarf grumbles. "Every time I've needed subtlety, magic has just gotten in the way. Just trust your instincts and you'll get through."
Trimmack looks down at the dwarf for a moment before continuing. "Use whatever strategy you think is best. And remember, just because you don't see a torch, doesn't mean someone's not there. Do you remember anything else from our training, Helmbane?"
The dwarf strokes his beard for a moment. "I remember that our Sergeants were allowed to participate. And... maybe there's a second entrance. I never found it during my trial, but maybe you recruits can."
If the group feels prepared enough, I'll post the first round before Monday, as early as later today. But if not, you can use the weekend to prepare yourselves and strategize further.
Bliss (Cayzle) Friday August 23rd, 2013 11:37:18 AM
Bliss looks around to see if his bag idea is even feasible.
OOC: Any volunteers? Carver, you have a blanket and rope. We could use those to make four bags, couldn't we? A couple other people have bedrolls.
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+6=19 ; d20+2=21 ; d20+6=8 ; Friday August 23rd, 2013 12:12:30 PM
Tinker doesn't notice glances of anyone, not even the Sergeants, but does note that the judges are unimpressed. The dwarf mentally shrugs, they are recruits, they are supposed to be unimpressive, and it doesn't phase his attention.
The dwarf nods at mixing the Fists and having Bliss with Carver and Linden to do a noisy, smokey infiltration. The plan that the centaurs appear to be an obvious diversion when in fact holding the prime attack appeals to Tinker's sense of humor. "It is what my foster parents would call a great joke."
The other group, pretending to be the main sneakers, will have three big people for distractions, and the other halfling and Tinker to be the sneakers. "I am not a halfling, but I do have some training in being unseen."
"We should also think of the other Fists. There will be 8 of them. If we can see any, we may be able to remember who is on that Fist. And knowing, we may know their skills."
Tinker lays aside his heavy backpack, crossbow, and urgosh, keeping his armor, dagger, and sap as well as what he has with his Explorers Outfit. On impulse, he pulls out his 50 feet of rope. "A second entrance? Perhaps above or below ground level."
..........................
Perception: 19 Sense Motive: 21 Perception: 8
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Friday August 23rd, 2013 12:18:48 PM
OOC How big is the area, will they tell us that? What type of terrain, will they tell us that? obviously there is a building, but is the rest brush, tall grass, trees. Nothing specific, just general. If they do tell us in general, do we have materials to make a fast and dirty ghille suit type thing? Beyond what i needed to carry my gear I have no spare bags. That is not to say we can't ride in with one of the centaurs, if they allow it and dismount while they drop a smoking pile of grass. That gets us WAYYY closer fast and all we need to do is hide. Besides, Bliss and Cameron are small and easy to miss in the dark when we drop off our ride. we could hang on for a round or two even so they don't know where we drop off.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Friday August 23rd, 2013 12:45:38 PM
Pru listens in growing alarm at the complicated plan.
"There are a few things we should keep in mind," she begins cautiously.
"First, this is only the first test. It would be nice to think that they're going to allow a day of rest between each of the tests, but that seems unlikely. Especially since they got us up in the middle of the night. I think the other tests will come immediately after this one.
"That's important because of how magic works. How it works is, spellcasters only have so many 'big' spells they can cast every day. Once they're done, they're done for the day. That's important, because William's summoning spells are 'big' spells. If we make him cast them all now, he won't have them later. That my still be the best strategy, but we ought to keep it in mind."
[OOC: Yes, I know all the players know this, but the characters don't necessarily. And Pru certainly doesn't know that you know. :) ]
"There are also little spells, called cantrips, that we can cast as many times as we want. That Dancing Lights spell is one of those; I can cast it all day long if I want to. So one thing is, we maybe ought to think about what we can do with little spells and save the big ones.
"Another thing to keep in mind is that we've never worked together before. So something that involves lots of different groups doing lots of different things is going to be difficult to coordinate. Unless we yell instructions to one another, which isn't very stealthy.
"And another thing, is it's pretty dark out there." [OOC: I'm assuming. What are the lighting conditions like?] "Those of us with human vision will have a hard time seeing what we're doing. And we don't know whether anybody on the other team has darkvision or whatever.
"So, given that it's dark, and given that we've never worked together before, I think a simple plan is better. Maybe we only have two groups? One to sneak up and try to get the scroll and the other to create a diversion? And I think the thing with the bags and the fire is too complicated. Too much can go wrong. We should keep it as simple as possible."
[OOC: What are the lighting conditions like? Yes, I know I asked once before, but I want to be sure the DMs see the question. :)]
DM Ian My apologies for not answering sooner. See the post below for more details...
DM Ian - The First Exam Friday August 23rd, 2013 12:45:46 PM Helmbane listens to Cameron's questions, and takes them to the judges. You watch the dwarf speak with the elf, who says something back. Helmbane then begins shouting at the elf, something about "proper standards," and you see the gnome step between the two. After a few quick words, Helmbane comes stomping back to you.
"Damn elf, thinks he's better than... They said it's about 600 square feet. You can expect some burnt out buildings and half-walls, like these." He gestures around at the debris around you. "The shack is in the north-west part of the training ground, you start in the south-east.
It is pitch black outside. Currently, the immediate area is lit by a torch stuck in the ground near the sign reading "42". As Trimmack said, some of the guards may have torches, but others may not. You are allowed to carry torches and cast the appropriate spells, but of course, that could give away your position.
In terms of camouflage, getting creative with a Disguise check might not be a bad idea... but taking 10 would be impossible, as your characters only have a couple of minutes left.
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Friday August 23rd, 2013 2:18:11 PM " Don't worry Sarge, we can do this." " OK, so simple, two pronged infiltration is what I am hearing as the plan. I would say make it a three pronged attack because we can easily make three strong groups." " Bliss is ridiculously stealthy and could probably paint himself red and run all the way there and still avoid being spotted, I would say let him go on his own since he has the best chance, the rest of us would hold him back. A second, kinda stealthy group would be myself, Tinker and Nickolai. and the rest of you do something to distract them either through magic effects or random missile fire to get them going in the wrong direction or outright charging them to get them focused on you. One group goes up the right hand edge, the other stealth group goes along the left side edge and the troublemakers go up the middle. That way we are all doing things we know how to do, we all kinda know where the others are and we get three shots at getting the scroll. Sound good?" Pru, you have a cantrip that can clean things right? can it make them dirty and dull too? If so that and a little bit of local debris might give the stealthers an edge. That's All I can think of, any other ideas?" Cameron quickly starts scrounging fro leaves, twigs and grass to use as camouflage and he also makes 2 or 3 small tinder bundles, in case he needs to draw attention to himself to draw it away from someone else.
OOC can anyone use disguise trained or with a decent bonus to camo us up?
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14, hp 12/12 Friday August 23rd, 2013 2:52:51 PM
William likes the ideas and says, "Yes, i can cast light as a cantrip and maybe use it as a distraction while the stealthy groups move on another side. Also, you can use my bedroll as a bag if you want to... So to make sure, I'm going up the middle with the other noise makers while the stealthy types are on the edge? Finally, I'm assuming I won't cast any spells for now aside from light and will summon help if you want me too...?"
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Friday August 23rd, 2013 3:57:34 PM
OOC Hey Ken, your header made me look at your stats. How do you get d10 hp for a conjurer? I was looking at the feasabilty of striking to subdue if it came to it and didn't think I could even put down a mage at first level. I saw your hp and thought I must have done something wrong on mine 8).
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Friday August 23rd, 2013 7:03:35 PM "Ok, I'm going to wrap some of this burn building into my blanket and carry it in one hand and my shield in the other. I'll circle to the left and make an attempt at reaching the hut. when I get as close as I can, I'll drop the blanket like I'm hiding it, to give them something to search. There's not mush sense in my striping off my armor, even though it does make noise, what hinders a centaur in stealth isn't being a centaur, it's being so big, it's size based like you are better at stealth because you're so tiny." With that said, Carve finds a couple pieces of junk and wraps them up in his blanket for use as a distraction.
Bliss (Cayzle) Friday August 23rd, 2013 9:10:31 PM
"Okay, I'll go on my lonesome. I'm good at sneaking on the move."
OOC: Fun Fact -- Did you know that the Pathfinder Gurus at Paizo have revised the Stealth rules slightly? Check out the section on breaking cover in that link there. Essentially, if you are hiding successfully, you can dash ahead to another spot of cover and remain hidden, even if you lost cover as you dashed from one hiding spot to the next. I mention it because that kind of action is maybe something Bliss will want to try. Most people take a -10 on their stealth check trying to pull this off, but Bliss only takes a -5 because he has a special ability that decreases stealth penalties while moving by five.
AC 12, TAC 11, FFAC 10, (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Saturday August 24th, 2013 4:54:16 AM
OOC: Sorry for the late post. I was out of town dealing with some stuff that came up in RL. Oh, what was decided about Linden's gear? Can he have it, cus you were all correct, I think Linden would be in gear, setting aside any issue about what I think he should do. It's an academy and he would get sick of the 400 laps and 1000 push-ups for being dense.
IC: Linden thinks for a minute, puts away his pipe he had grabbed and not lit, and says. "I can't disguise well. I'm all for the fire and distraction. I can be distracting." He smiles impishly.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Saturday August 24th, 2013 1:14:36 PM I'll circle to the left and make an attempt at reaching the hut....
Okay, I'll go on my lonesome...
"Guys, hang on." Prudence is beginning to think she's getting a headache. "We really can't go charging off in eight different directions. We'll be caught for sure.
"How about this?" She takes a moment to collect her thoughts and plunges forward. "Me and the Clomping Hoof Brigade--" she grins at Linden and Carver to show she is teasing--"we stay near the perimeter creating a series of distractions. Carry bags and drop them, although honestly I don't know what good that will do. Make a noise like centaurs trying to move quietly, which I think we'll excel at. I can cast Dancing Lights at a distance of a hundred feet--make that look like another group trying and failing to conceal their light source.
"Meanwhile, the other five--Bliss, Nikolai, William, Tinker, and Cameron--you guys sneak as close to the target as you can safely get as a group. Then you split into two sub-groups. One stealthy group--which may end up being Bliss by himself, although I don't like the thought of sending him alone--one stealthy group goes after the scroll. The second group creates yet more distractions, staying close enough that they can support the stealthy group if they run into trouble."
She looks around. "Everybody has really good ideas, but we have to work as a team. For one thing, we'll get a better grade. But more importantly, we'll stand a better chance of succeeding."
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) Saturday August 24th, 2013 7:39:13 PM "Two groups aye", agrees Tinker. "But each group should be ready to try and get the scroll, don't put all the eggs in one basket, right?"
Tinker holds up one finger and points at Linden and Carver. " You guys of course are part of group One. Pru says she is with you, and anyone else? So you are going left and making as if you are going for the fast grab. If you see an opportunity, take it!"
Tinker taps his chest along with Bliss and Cameron. "We're part of Group Two, and anyone else. We'll go to the right. If you don't mind, I'll lead with my darkvision and stealth. Bliss, you should hang back and use our group for protection until we get attacked. At that point, you peel off. They should expect us all together or all alone, not a little of both. Maybe."
Tinker is aware time is running out and the two assault groups need to be identified.
Tinker is in Group Two.
...........................
Equipment= Explorers Outfit 50 feet rope
Bliss (Cayzle) Saturday August 24th, 2013 9:07:42 PM
"Group Two ... Stay with the group at first ... then go off on my lonesome when the right time comes. Got it!"
Privately, Bliss figures on never being seen by anybody, friend or foe.
Ac 18,Touch 14,Flat 15(+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 1 CMD 14) HP 15/15 Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper ( David Feest) Sunday August 25th, 2013 12:21:58 AM " Sounds good, lets get going." Cameron will be in group 2
AC 12, TAC 11, FFAC 10, (CMD 13,CMB 2), HPS 14/14 Linden (Jay B) Sunday August 25th, 2013 2:01:37 AM
"Wait wait! Does anyone know that Mage Hand spell?!" He grins, glad that he thought of it.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14, hp 8/8 Sunday August 25th, 2013 4:40:31 PM "Yep, I have it memorized," adds William... "What's your idea Linden? I can only move about 5 lbs of stuff with it... "
(oops... messed up my hps since I copied the formatting from my other PC (who had a d10) to this... Corrected to d6+1 for level in my FC + 1 Con)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 15 Tch 15 Ffted 13 HP 14/14 CMD 17/19(Grapple) Sunday August 25th, 2013 7:04:04 PM
The plan taking shape was somewhat along the lines of what he was thinking and he nodds his approval ot it.
"Second group, Good."
From his backpack he takes a plain sack and hands it over to Group 1.
"Ready whenever you are."
Carver AC 16, AC 18/ shield, CMB 5, CMD 15, HP 15/15 (John C) Sunday August 25th, 2013 11:26:24 PM "Give me a quick hand getting this armor off, I'll need all my speed" Carver strips it off in a hurry, only piling it neatly if there's time.
AC 15, T13, F12, CMD 15(19); HP 13/13 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday August 26th, 2013 8:12:11 AM
Tinker helps Carver with the straps on his armor to speed the process.
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