Bliss (AC22, HP23) (Cayzle) Tuesday July 8th, 2014 10:51:10 AM
[OOC: Although one never knows the price Gargul might demand for return to the Wold of the living, losing a level is not standard in the Wold.]
DM Ken E. Tuesday July 8th, 2014 10:57:57 AM
Sapping into the city was a cunning Gnoll trick, but it was also their downfall. As the last Gnoll falls, stuck in the city with no easy escape, and the remnants of the warband retreats with arrows chasing after them, the party heaves a mutual sigh of relief in tune with the cheers of the townsfolk celebrating their victory.
This is tempered with the knowledge that they lost two comrades and one is unaccounted for. Cobbleshot is too far gone for healing. Turley is wounded, but will pull through the night.
Still, they have saved many lives and kept the Gnoll threat from overrunning the town. After sending one last arrow after the retreating Gnolls, Carren, who got stuck in the thick of the melee, gives them an appreciative wave, and beckons them over.
"I guess it went well enough it the South! How has everyone fared?"
Camerons caravan has now decided to make all haste for Hornfowl and should be there in the morning.
Bliss (AC22, HP23) (Cayzle) Tuesday July 8th, 2014 10:59:40 AM
Bliss sits by Lindy's body.
"Do you think we could ask Lord Gargul to bring him back?" he asks everyone who comes by.
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 28/43 (John C) Tuesday July 8th, 2014 1:07:19 PM "Well Carren, we've had casualties, Including a couple of your men I'm afraid. We were dealing with a group lead by a trio of flinds, none of them easy to kill. Were many of the civilian guards killed? I'm afraid they might be back again later on today."
AC 20,T 16,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 15/42 Cameron (David Feest) d8=4 ; d8=2 ; d8=5 ; Tuesday July 8th, 2014 1:15:39 PM
As the performers push on through the night. Cameron tries to keep the horse, himself and Krog fresh by using his bardic splls to heal them when the traval gets to be too much. Cameron heals 6 hp Krog heals 4 hp Horse heals 7 hp though his isn't battle damage, just fatigue, which for a horse is still lethal damage.
OOC Cameron found nothing of note on the gnolls? He can detect magic as a cantrip. Also I still need a final count of how many gnolls, flinds and hyenas were in the group that attacked us. Finally is that Demon Gnoll distinguishable from a normal gnoll? Apparently he is Large rather than just a big medium.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 20/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Tuesday July 8th, 2014 3:00:15 PM
OOC: I forgot this is still night time. About what time is it?
Spells in Effect: Mage Armor; Prot. from Arrows: 40/40 (dmg reduction 10/magic) Not Fatigued Other: Low Light Vision 60'; Stunning Fist 2/2
IC: Nikolai stands at attention when Carren shows up. Maybe the rest don't remember proper unit formation when reporting, but he does. "Sir, we need to plug this hole tonight. Permission to requisition some help from the town militia to cave it in?"
OOC: Cayzle, be more specific in Bliss' healing. :)
He says, "We just need someone who can send us to talk with Lord Gargul. My Aunt Priss could do it, but she is too far away. And she's not a good friend to Lord Gargul. Maybe we can find a priest or someone?"
AC 21 w/shield of faith, AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS DEAD Linden (Jay B) Tuesday July 8th, 2014 7:07:45 PM
........
Prudence Gundle [AC 17; HP 15/39] [Mage Armor; Protection from Arrows 36/40] (Kathy) d8+5=6 ; Tuesday July 8th, 2014 7:18:13 PM
Pru reaches into her belt pouch and pulls out a pretty cut-crystal bottle. She holds it in her hands for a moment while vague memories of a Yule celebration in an inn beyond dreams flicker in her mind. Then she removes the stopper and drinks it down.
One cut-crystal bottle containing a fruity blue potion: it's a Cure Light Wounds potion--but it's one that has been personally brewed by the current Head Cleric of the Clearspring Temple on Centaur Island. That means when you drink THIS potion, the imbiber gets to roll a d8+5 to determine the effects of the curing! This potion was won at the Yuletide Festival in the Giggling Ghost and its magic will expire on January 5, 2015.
Feeling a little better, she goes to join Bliss in his vigil. "I don't know how, Bliss," she replies to his question. "But I think we should try."
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 20 with Mage Armor and PfE; hp 23/23 Tuesday July 8th, 2014 8:06:29 PM
William offers to help cover up the hole and prepare the fort for other assaults.... He also joins in saying prayers for the dead and comforting those who lost loved ones...
On the other hand, as much as he cared for his lost comrade, he won't join in any discussions to bring his friend back via a false god. He won't oppose them but he'll probably stay at the fort until they arrive back from their trip...
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 16/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday July 8th, 2014 8:21:05 PM
Tinker is healthier after Bliss' magic, wounds are scabs and bruises and all feelings of Fatigue are gone. Yet the miasma of lost comrades weighs heavy on his heart. The little halfling is with Linden, and so Tinker takes care of the body of Cobbleshot, composing the man so he is laid out with his own weapons in hand and the broken weapons and teeth of fallen enemy at his feet.
Slowly, the plaintive requests of Bliss make it through his dwarven head and into his brain. A fire kindles in his eyes for his two comrades. "I would go to the Lands of Rest and back for Linden and Cobbleshot. They gave their lives for us, could I do less?" The half-dead dwarf is ready to charge Gargul's Throne if it would help!
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 28/43 (John C) Tuesday July 8th, 2014 9:47:06 PM "I'll go to the lands of rest and fight to get our friends back if I must, it's the least I can do, I'll even beg Lord Gargul to retrieve them back to the lands of the living."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 20/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Tuesday July 8th, 2014 10:43:59 PM
Nikolai remembers a story his father told once, and only once. When with a group called the Iron Adventurers in some place called the Southern Continent, they fought a mass murderer and his minotaur minions in the middle of a hurricane storm. He was killed but Gargul saw to it to bring him back more so as a punishment and partly a joke, as Alexi apparently offended Gargul on a previous visit to bring someone important back...
"Uhm.... Is it wise to go petition Gargul to return Linden to the Living? I understand it changes people, even those who go do the petitioning. Do we know Linden wants to come back? I've heard that once dead, your perspective changes and you may not want to come back? Just wondering if all of you have thought of that. I'll go too, but beware, you may not like the aftereffects."
Bliss (AC22, HP23) (Cayzle) Wednesday July 9th, 2014 6:47:40 AM
"Don't worry, Nick," says Bliss, "Sometimes Lord Gargul is tough, but he is fair, and he likes adventurers!"
The tiny fellow looks around. "We just need a cleric or a scroll or a something to ask for an audience. Maybe if we pool our funds, we can get what we need at the Catacombs."
DM Ken E. Wednesday July 9th, 2014 11:24:46 AM
Carren takes the news with a measured amount of control. There is obvious hurt in the mans face, but his response is textbook.
"Cobbleshot was a good man. He will be missed by his comrades. At least his died with his wounds in the right place, and not from arrows in the back. You'll need to report to Sergeant Trimmack in the morning. He is recovering from his own wounds currently. I'll find a place for our wounded and dead apart from the Militia. "
Double Fist begins the task of helping gather the wounded before being dismissed back to bed.
In the morning, Sgt. Trimmack is found supervising the remaining townsfolk and the remaining militia in sorting the looted gear and weapons from the enemy.
"Glad to see you made it! Damn shame about Linden and Cobbleshot. Linden was always a little too soft for the Fist I think. He was too damn decent. The folks here are giving us a wagon to take this stuff home. Nearly 70 sets of armor and weapons, plus a few bows. It's a decent haul."
He takes a deep breath.
"Glad to see you made it through. If those Gnolls had made it behind our lines, the town would have been in all sorts of trouble. This group was much larger than even the secondary scouting reports showed. The militia here lost about seventy men, mostly after the furries hit the wall. I think you'll find a nice bonus in your paychecks when you get back to base. "
He spits.
"I'm glad you made the decision you did. It's never easy to leave a group of people in need, but when it comes down to it, there are many times more people that you saved by following your orders and defending the town. The great thing about orders, they often come with more information than you have available and you can let any issues of morality slip through the cracks when honoring your word means doing what you are told. Good job again, and I trust I will continue to see exemplary work from you all. You can start by...
Trimmacks jaw drops.
"I'll be damned..."
Following his line of sight, you see a shoddy caravan approaching. A giant is pulling a slip-shod cart, and a halfling rides exhausted on horseback. Minus two or three people, the circus caravan is riding into town..
Bliss (AC22, HP23) (Cayzle) Wednesday July 9th, 2014 12:33:27 PM
Bliss hops up. smiling for the first time since the battle.
Cam! Cam! You made it! You made it!"
He rushes over to his prodigal friend, overjoyed.
AC 20,T 16,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 15/42 Cameron (David Feest) Wednesday July 9th, 2014 1:58:20 PM
Cameron slumps in his saddle, exhausted from the ride. Dwarfkin he may be, but he didn't have their stamina. He looks little different from when you last saw him. Uniform, as always is crisp and pressed. He raises his head at Bliss's call and you start to see the effects that fighting alone have had. Both of his eyes are blackened and his face is swollen and tired looking. When he dismounts he goes to one knee before quickly standing up. He turns and gathers a couple of items from his saddlebags before approaching. Most all of the damage he took was blunt, but the way he moves shows what his armor hides. He steps up to the line and snaps to attention in front of Sergeant Trimmack. " Sir! Detached scout Steelshaper reporting for duty. We encountered a raiding party that was an even mix of Flinds, Gnolls and hyena. All were dealt summary justice and killed. To my knowledge, none escaped. Rusty was lost as was one performer when the gnolls got in among the performers by sneaking up behind the fight. Here is a tally of their numbers, one ear from each combatant and a more durable canine tooth from each combatant. I expect the head performer will want to speak to you or Sergeant Carren about paying his contract. Orders sir?" Cameron holds out a string with over a dozen ears on it and a piece of leather that contains a like number of teeth. He looks about to fall over, much as the rest of the Fist did upon arrival yesterday. He holds his attention pose until instructed otherwise.
DM Ken E. Wednesday July 9th, 2014 3:54:33 PM
-Bonus DM Post-
Trimmack looks at the pro-offered necklace and simply shakes his head.
"You aren't a scout. You aren't nothin. Carren removed you from your Fist and from his Squad. You technically aren't a part of anything at all right now, except maybe that circus whom we do not have a contract with. It takes a proper officer to establish a contract, you're not even a proper squaddie. I'll let Double Fist fill you in on what's happened here."
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 28/43 (John C) Wednesday July 9th, 2014 4:43:30 PM
Carver walks over and looks at Cameron. "You may have saved most of these circus people, but we lost people and a whole bunch wounded, who may or may not recover. No matter how well you did out there on your own, you're still going to be held responsible for the deaths and loss we suffered here at the place where our contract sent us. We could have used another two fists with the numbers that were arrayed against us, losing your services really hurt our abilities. I warned you of that before you split off on your own. There's not much that can be done, and I'm afraid that those in charge are going to come down hard on you with every rule and regulation they can. You've also made an enemy of Carren, and he is a fist leader, his report is gonna bury you, no matter what you accomplished. Just do yourself a favor, keep as much distance between yourself and him from here on our, maybe he'll forget about you."
AC 20,T 16,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 15/42 Cameron (David Feest) Wednesday July 9th, 2014 6:19:29 PM
Cameron looks as if Trimmack slapped him instead of just talking to him. At great expense he clenches his jaw. That action brings a tear to his eye since his jaw is just as badly bruised as the rest of his face. He snaps out a response of "Sir!" and waits for the rest of the double fist to speak and Trimmack to walk away so that he can slump down next to the fire.
Prudence Gundle [AC 17; HP 15/39] [Mage Armor; Protection from Arrows 36/40] (Kathy) Wednesday July 9th, 2014 7:03:03 PM
Seeing Cameron and the performing troupe coming into town is a bright spot in an otherwise terrible aftermath. "All the gods be praised," Pru murmurs.
Aloud she says, "Cameron, it's good to see you."
AC 21 w/shield of faith, AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS DEAD Linden (Jay B) Wednesday July 9th, 2014 7:20:58 PM
.........
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 16/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday July 9th, 2014 9:28:22 PM
Tinker moves up with Prudence and places a comradely hand on Cameron's shoulder. A short smile and nod is what the dwarf provides to agree with what the Sorceress says, but there is no beating around the bush, especially since none of the others have given the news.
"We lost Cobbleshot and Linden. They are dead." He says it bluntly, baldly, and quickly to reduce the pain for his companion.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 24/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Wednesday July 9th, 2014 9:52:47 PM
OOC: remember 8 hrs of un-interrupted rest you recover 1hp/lvl.
IC: Between Trimmack and Carver, Nikolai need not say anything to Cameron but the half-elf is glad the halfling is still alive.
He walks over to Cameron and pats the bruised head and says with a slight smile, "Glad you're alive," then goes looking for the town temple and the presiding priest. He poses the suggestion the others had to the priest, contact Gargul about returning Linden to them. "Is this something you can do?"
AC 20,T 16,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 15/42 Cameron (David Feest) Wednesday July 9th, 2014 11:28:42 PM " The gnolls got them? Guess I better go turn myself over to Sergeant Carren then. I'm glad you all made it. Try note to hate me. I couldn't just let them die." With no more words to say he heads off into the camp to deliver his report to Sergeant Carren and find out his disposition.
Bliss (AC22, HP23) (Cayzle) Thursday July 10th, 2014 7:34:24 AM
Mookie shakes his head. "You call those reports?"
Bliss agrees. "You're leaving out all the good parts!"
"Tell him, Kid."
"Okay, so we arrived all tired like, but we had hardly any chance to get ready when they attacked! They came in from the north, east, and west, firing arrows from far out. But Lindy had a hunch and went to the South Gate -- and it sure was good that he did! That's where the gnolls were tunnelling through secret like! Thank Goodness Lindy had his hunch!"
Bliss tells the rest of the story of the battle.
"So we were able to shoot some gnolls and fight off the ones at the South Gate. But Lindy got himself killed, Cam! Lindy's dead!"
The halfling pauses to wipe his nose on his sleeve.
"We gotta get Lord Gargul to send him back. He's a hero. He deserves another chance."
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 20 with Mage Armor and PfE; hp 23/23 Thursday July 10th, 2014 8:37:35 AM
William greets Cameron, glad that he managed to survive. However, he too is disappointed that his friend broke lawful orders to go save the caravan.His presence in this battle might have made a difference and Linden might not have died.
"It's good to see you again, but as you can see, the boss is really mad and you may be done as a Fist... But if not, I"ll be glad to have you back on the team..."
When he has a chance, he'll inquire of their leader when they'll have a chance to prosecute their victory and finish the gnolls off for good before they reform and come back again...
DM Ken E. Thursday July 10th, 2014 10:34:30 AM
As Linden floats above the Double Fist, he sees a strange glow off in the distance. From what he can tell, it's coming from the ground, in the very spot he died!
(DM Post inc. Linden you have mail!)
DM Ken E. Thursday July 10th, 2014 10:44:08 AM
When Carren reports to Linden, the Ranger is silent for a long time.
"I'm struggling here Cameron. Per regulations, you are in a heap of trouble. Then again, so am I. I never had authority to remove you from our Squad, but I did it because I couldn't risk relying on your strength and then missing you later on if you decided to sneak back to the caravan."
Carren observes the necklace for awhile. It's easy to see he has some respect for the grisly trophy.
"You followed your heart instead of orders, but that's not why Trimmack was so upset. He was set on you becoming Thumb of his Fist before you pulled this stunt, ya know. That will not happen now. And I WILL have to report this. For now at least, you are re-instated. Go tell Double Fist to pack their things. You've got to get Lindens body back if you are going to petition Gargul for your friend. No one here can do it, but there's a few Eyes of the Death God who can perform that task for you back in the citadel. Also, tell Double Fist to go ahead and hang on to the magic items they found for now."
AC 20,T 16,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 15/42 Cameron (David Feest) Thursday July 10th, 2014 11:55:52 AM " Sir!" " Had you ordered it I would not have deserted you. Direct orders from a commander onsite over rule stale orders by the rear echelon as far as I am concerned. But... they were completely defenseless. I will admit I was not the gnollslayer in that fight, but I want to think that through my organizing them and inspiring them to fight for their lives they were able to make the decision to live and act upon that decision. I knew there would be consequences with the Fist, and that losing my rank, possibly my life was one of them. Tell the brass whatever you have to in order to minimize your exposure. You were going to be promoted too. I can handle whatever their decisions entail, easier than I am handling the scorn of my Fist." "Sir!" Cameron spins on his heel to depart and carry out the Sergeant's orders. It isn't a textbook spin though, he nearly falls when he suddenly gets dizzy mid turn. He regains his footing and marches to the rest of the Fist and relays the message to get ready to depart, and to keep what they won for now as far as the magic items go. While e waits he unburdens his horse, combs it and feeds and waters it. He also tries to rest some. Out of spells he will not be able to keep the horse going on the ride back, and it too will die for his decision.
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 28/43 (John C) Thursday July 10th, 2014 1:30:19 PM
Carver goes to Cameron, and takes him aside, "I am glad to see you alive and back with us, but we really could have used you here. I'm at a quandary over what I should do, should I support your choice or should I stand for the rules we live by. I hope you can understand the place you have put me...." Carver claps him on the shoulder, then turns away and goes to see if they can get a wagon and a couple of draft animals. They'll need it to bring Linden's corpse back to the citadel.
Bliss (AC22, HP23) (Cayzle) Thursday July 10th, 2014 3:11:44 PM
"Well, I'm glad you're back, Cam!" declares Bliss loyally. "I would not want to have to ask Lord Gargul for you too!"
That makes him think of poor Lindy, and he goes over to help with the body, and to cast a spell to let him sleep easier for now. [Gentle Repose]
Prudence Gundle [AC 17; HP 19/39] (Kathy) Thursday July 10th, 2014 4:09:57 PM
As ordered, Pru gathers her things and gets ready to depart. There had been no time for such luxuries as bathing, and she feels like a filthy mess. But first things first. They need to report in, and they need to see what can be done about poor Linden.
AC 21 w/shield of faith, AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS DEAD Linden (Jay B) Thursday July 10th, 2014 6:21:59 PM
'Poor' Linden hovers there, looking at his flesh body. "Doesn't look like mirror or water reflections, does it?" Wait, no one could hear him. "They seem to be moving me. Petitioning for me to return? Would would Flower think? That's an odd feeling. Like being attached to a tether or something. Will Gargul like me? Too much. To give me up? Clouds." His thoughts are scattered, and he is unable to maintain focus on one subject at a time.
AC 20,T 16,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 15/42 Cameron (David Feest) d20+7=19 ; Thursday July 10th, 2014 7:45:13 PM
Carver wouldn't leave it alone, so Cameron finally answers him.
" The position I have put you in?" "You have dead Fist mates, but this is all about you, eh?" " Would that be the position of being a 'jackass' to me when I manage to come back? Everyone else has managed to either keep their feelings to themselves or at least have some respect for me and the fact that I probably ruined my career and life by choosing to save some performers, people that didn't sign up to be the main feature in an all you can eat buffet hosted by a pack of gnolls, instead of letting them die." "Or maybe its the position of knowing that instead of helping folks who needed it you followed orders. Because that is all it is to you right, just a job? Where I come from a Paladin is a beacon of shining GOOD, not necessarily a defense lawyer who will serve their client right or wrong. Paladins of Pantheon do that, and I am still pretty sure, based on his history, where my Uncle would have stood when he was ordered to let them go on alone. With the performers." "Or maybe it is the position that you could get to watch a third Fist mate die by the noose when charges are brought back home at the Citadel. That's a real possibility too, and one that I fully understood when I stayed behind." " So why return at all you ask? Why not leave after the fight and just make my way on my own and leave the Fist hanging? Because I didn't do the wrong thing. If the Fist finds it was wrong in their eyes then I am willing to pay for it. Not whine about the 'position I am in'." "Whether you are going to be a horse's ass about this or not is irrelevant. I failed to protect two people I ought to have been there for. That's on me. How you handle it is your own problem. So go somewhere that isn't near me and figure out how you feel." " You probably should be thanking me for stepping out of your way for Thumb. I could have had the position 'hands' down, but instead I showed a little moral spine and you can't handle that."
Perform Oratory 19 to be sure the defenders of Hornfowl and the performers both can hear him.
He shrugs off the hand on his shoulder and goes to the stables to see to his horse.
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 16/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday July 10th, 2014 7:51:04 PM
Tinker doesn't let Cameron report on his own, but stands with Cameron through the report and decision. He also walks back with the halfling, providing unspoken support. As they return to the team, he nudges the smaller man, shoulder to shoulder. "We are comrades, Cameron. The others may be telling you their fears. I am always here for you. We are comrades."
Tinker doesn't hang about, but gets ready to move out.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 24/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Thursday July 10th, 2014 10:37:56 PM
Nikolai misses all that frakas with Cameron, as he ends up in the stables getting the horses ready. The town priest lamented not being able to do anything for Linden so Nikolai left it at that. At least they had someone who could keep Linden's body from rotting on the trip back. The only other way would seem to make him an Undead and have him tag along...
The horses ready, Nikolai's gear packed and ready, he leads the horses to the town square and reports.
"All ready to go here, Sir!"
AC 21 w/shield of faith, AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS DEAD Linden (Jay B) Thursday July 10th, 2014 11:06:41 PM
"Bliss can do that?!" The centaur will miss the little guy. "Groovy."
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 20 with Mage Armor and PfE; hp 23/23 Friday July 11th, 2014 8:49:29 AM
WIlliam mounts his horse, unsure of what will happen next with their quest. He'll accompany his friends to help protect them, but wont get involved in negotiations or discussions as previously mentioned...
A Spell to Cast [DM Jerry] Friday July 11th, 2014 10:42:16 AM
The Double Fist prepares to head back to the Citadel to face the music and to convince one of the Eyes of Gargul to raise Linden. The morale of the group is variable with the hard decisions that had to be made this grisly day. Not everyone agrees with those decisions. There is a bitter taste in the air and pangs of regret. There is also thankfulness that only one died when it could have been several, or all. Some of the Double Fist talk a lot to relieve the stress and to keep from thinking about it all. Others are silent and pensive.
Then it happens. To Bliss. He glows. Just for a moment. Then for a longer moment he just stands there. Unmoving. Not breathing.
=====
A voice.
Only heard by Bliss.
"Son, it is time to be a man. Cast it. Have faith."
Vauhwyt? Mother? Can't be. But it is.
Then a more powerful voice. HIS voice.
"Bring them to me witch. Use your best spell."
Gargul will not be denied. The bloodpact is implied in his words.
Mother adds.
"Cast it perfectly. Do it well son. You will make me proud. Do it now, with the emotions from the day fresh on your mind. They will drive you, push you."
Where did this come from? Why were they asking him, Bliss, to do the impossible? Then his own words of a few moments earlier float back to him...."I would not want to have to ask Lord Gargul for you too!"
His words. Now his responsibility. His.
=====
Then as if a spell expired, Bliss takes a big breath. And another.
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 28/43 (John C) Friday July 11th, 2014 12:09:27 PM
Carver is trying to figure out how to explain something when he notices Bliss' reaction to something.... "Hey kid." He walks over and puts his hand on Bliss' shoulder, "Bliss, are you OK? What's wrong?" There is concern in Carver question.
AC 20,T 16,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 15/42 Cameron (David Feest) d20+10=21 ; Friday July 11th, 2014 1:21:23 PM
Cameron watches as Bliss seems to listen to something that Cameron's normally keen ears can't hear. He would say something to Bliss, try to reassure him, but Bliss just looks like he is trying to figure out a puzzle, so Cameron stays quiet. Besides, he is too tired to get involved. Perception 21-fatigue
Cameron is fatigued Cameron has no spells available to him until he can rest
Bliss is a little more than somewhat flabbergasted.
"Uh, I gotta, um."
"Wowsy. So ... um ..." He looks around as if in a dream.
Mookie, who only sensed the very edge of that mystical revelation, caws loudly, "Kid! Kid! Pull it together!"
Bliss shakes his head. "Okay, Mookie," he says to his familiar.
Bliss searches through the town. He needs blueberries, or strawberries, or olallieberries, or some other small fruits! Hopefully he can find some. If not, he'll have to do without.
He goes to each of his fellows on in the Double Fist. "Come ON!" he insists. Get over here NOW like! It's important! I ... think Lord Gargul is waiting! HURRY!"
"William! Nikky! Pru! Tinker! Cam! Carver! Stop doing whatever you're doing and come with me!"
Bliss leads his comrades-in-arms to Lindy's body. He gives each of his friends a berry. "Put it on Lindy when I cast the spell, please! Then the tiny witch does his best to cast his most powerful healing spell. [Sadly, that's a Goodberry spell!] He wants to be sure it works, so he'll use a hero point to get a +10% on his ley check. He rolls an 84, and the spell works.
He also murmurs a little prayer, commonly said by children at bedtime ...
Gargul, lord of life and death, watch me as I lay to sleep. If I take my final breath, guide me through the shadows deep.
Prudence Gundle [AC 17; HP 19/39] (Kathy) Friday July 11th, 2014 4:06:36 PM
Hearing Bliss's call, Pru slides down from her horse and comes over to the wagon bearing Linden's body.
Bewildered, she accepts a berry. "Bliss? Bliss, what are you doing?" she asks. She's afraid the halfling lad may have lost his mind, but she places her berry when prompted.
AC 20,T 16,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 15/42 Cameron (David Feest) Friday July 11th, 2014 4:47:33 PM
Cameron does his best to not stumble this time as he dismounts. He follows Bliss around and when Bliss says his spell he does as instructed, still not fully filled in on what they are on about.
A Place to Go [2nd ILLEGAL post-- I hope Jerry doesn't see this] [DM Jerry] Friday July 11th, 2014 5:46:23 PM
As the group gathers over Linden's body he feels a pull on his soul stronger than he could have believed and with a "yank," he is pulled into the Shadowlands. There he sees the River of Blood and seems to fly towards it, attracted to it like a moth to a flame.
After a long time, he reaches the River and plunges into it, travelling at a leisurely speed towards an unseen destination. Endless time is spent in this ever-flowing highway of souls headed for the Lands of the Dead. Eventually, the river flows into a lake. Crossing the lake seems to take just a few seconds as the lure of the Lands of Rest attract him. Landing on the shore, friends and loved ones from this life and previous lives wait for him and memories of all those lifetimes return to him clearly.
What follows is an extended time of joy, rest, and contentment. Some precious loved ones urge him to go before Gargul and state his intentions to stay. Some advise him to enjoy his time here and use it to heal the mind and spirit. He's a member of a double fist who cross the lines between responsibility to the task and adventuring spirit. This reincarnation is likely not ended yet . Time flows differently. If they can, his living comrades will indeed come for him.
Politely he walks away and busies himself sharpening his xbow bolts, memorizing spells, etc. until the rest of the group is done with whatever they're involved in...
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 24/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) d20+11=29 ; Friday July 11th, 2014 10:46:15 PM
Perc +11 = 29
Nikolai finds himself right next to Bliss when the halfling stops all movement and seems to go into a trance. The monk almost trips over the little guy. At first Nikolai thinks that all the events have finally caught up with poor Bliss and he is emotionally spent and exhausted. But in seconds he snaps out of it and starts calling everyone.
'First I'm Nikolai, then Nik, now Nikky? Geez!'
Nikolai nudges Bliss, "Hey, I'm right here, no need to shout."
Bliss want to have a ceremony to contact Gargul for the possible return of Linden to the living. As much as Nikolai likes all those in his Double Fist, he's not sure it is the best thing. Ultimately, since Linden did sacrifice himself with his Sacrificial Bond and saved Nikolai from certain death himself, Nikolai agrees, if not on religious grounds, at least for his memory. If Linden wants to come back and Gargul allows it, then so be it.
Nikolai follows Bliss' instructions and waits to see what will happen.
AC 21 w/shield of faith, AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS DEAD Linden (Jay B) Friday July 11th, 2014 11:41:37 PM
Linden moves along happily. He waits.
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 16/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Saturday July 12th, 2014 10:24:00 AM
Tinker is uncomfortable on several levels, and Cameron's situation is only one reason. Cameron himself telling Carver what a Paladin should or should not be makes the down-to-earth dwarf very, very uncomfortable. He thinks about Unrak Ironfist telling a young Tinker about rogues and some were acrobats, or scouts, or ... well... locksmiths! Stories have them in all different personalities and aspects, so he sees no reason why Paladins all had to be the same. Again, he stoically keeps his thoughts to himself.
And then Bliss falls over, and just as quickly jumps up with a plan about Gargul and Linden and ... too weird! But Bliss is a companion, and so is Linden and Cobbleshot. Tinker accepts a berry and places it on Linden. He will ask why later.
He looks over at William sharpening his crossbow bolts, and frowns, but then visibly shrugs. If he stays by Cameron for his decision to temporarily leave the Double Fist to play hero for a vulnerable caravan, he will stay by William for his decision to not help save Linden and sharpen his crossbow bolts.
AC 21 w/shield of faith, AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS DEAD Linden (Jay B) Saturday July 12th, 2014 10:47:03 PM
The cleric is touched by ALL of his companion's decisions and stands by all of them on some level. He has a love for each, a little different for each, but Flower understands even if he didn't. Sacrifice. It's something that the Mailed Fist understands, and his Fist as well. Maybe he would be more understood after this... assuming he is returned to the Wold. If not, he would move on.
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 28/43 (John C) Monday July 14th, 2014 6:48:33 PM
checkin in
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 16/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday July 14th, 2014 8:29:14 PM
Placing the magiked berry on Linden's corpse, Tinker remembers his battle companion's best actions.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 24/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Monday July 14th, 2014 8:52:15 PM
Double checking in... :)
AC 21 w/shield of faith, AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS DEAD Linden (Jay B) Monday July 14th, 2014 9:01:49 PM
um.... checking my dead character. ;)
Bliss (AC22, HP23) (Cayzle) Monday July 14th, 2014 9:17:10 PM
Bliss looks at the goodberries on the body of his deceased pal. He looks around at his friends waiting.
Mookie caws, laughing at the mercenaries standing in a circle: "Ah-hah-hah! He really got you guys good this time! Oh-ho-ho! The LOOKS on your faces!"
Bliss gets super red in the face. "You hush, Mookie! No, really guys, just be patient! Lord Gargul is going to appear! He told me so!"
Mookie continues his laughter. "Yeah, and each year, the Lord Gargul rises out of the corpse that he thinks is the most sincere. He's gotta pick this one. He's got to. I don't see how a corpse can be more sincere than this one. You can look around and there's not a sign of hypocrisy. Nothing but sincerity as far as the eye can see." Mookie has to take a break to get his breath back. Then, still chuckling, he says, "Tonight the Lord Gargul will rise out of this corpse! He flies through the air and brings toys to all the children of the Wold."
Bliss stamps his feet. "MOOKIE! SHUT UP!"
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 28/43 (John C) Monday July 14th, 2014 9:46:06 PM "Bliss, if you say this will work, who am I to argue with you. Only if it fails will it give me pause. You say wait, I'll wait, I also have faith in Lord Gargul. Mookie, want to come to dinner? I always like eating stuffed bird."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 24/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Monday July 14th, 2014 10:28:56 PM "I've never heard of Lord Gargul coming down to the petitioners. More likely we'll be going up to him, in some kind of trance state." Nikolai whispers to Pru.
Prudence Gundle [AC 17; HP 19/39] (Kathy) Monday July 14th, 2014 10:57:43 PM
Meeting a god. "But my hair's a mess," Pru whispers back to Nikolai. "And I still smell like burned dog."
AC 20,T 16,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 15/42 Cameron (David Feest) Monday July 14th, 2014 11:45:07 PM " shhh Pru, Bliss needs us all to hold our thoughts and train them to work with his right now. I think he might be too little to do this without our thoughts too." With a whispered song ans a gesture or two, the rest of the Fist, even Linden, look parade ground ready. Cast prestidigitation. Cameron then puts all of his will into Bliss's belief that this will get them an audience with Gargul. He concentrates so hard it hurts. Then he realizes it hurts because he is clenching his bruised face again. He concentrates nonetheless.
The Smallest Spell in the Wold [DM Jerry] Tuesday July 15th, 2014 9:03:16 AM
For the longest time, the Double Fist just stands there over Linden's body. It seems ludicrous that a Goodberry spell can raise someone from the dead or get the attention of the gods. Bliss must be overwhelmed by the events of the day or worse has lost his mind in religious fervor.
Then, the center of one of the Goodberries begins to glow. Like a tiny sun. Then another. Then all of them. Yet it still doesn't seem like enough. They just sit there. Glowing. The spell must have stalled or done all it could.
Several of the goodberries ruptures spilling glowing golden juice all over everyone's clothing and faces. Yep, the spell just backfired.
However, the glowing effect slowly spreads, working hard? As if refusing to give up on his spell. Some within the group begin to concentrate adding their will to the spell. Cameron says, "Bliss needs us all to hold our thoughts and train them to work with his right now. I think he might be too little to do this without our thoughts too."]
-----
[Sorry I didn't get the post in last night. I'll post again tonight.]
And the power multiplies. And Linden's body fades away. Strange. And the Double Fist, begins to rise into the air. The earth nearby begins to glow as well from the spilled Goodberry juice. Holy ground. A voice whispers from a great distance away,
"I HEAR YOU, COME."
Everyone knows that voice. Gargul's voice.
With a mighty wind, the party is whisked, in formation, across the sky and into a portal. Travelling through the Shadow Lands, with its creatures, shadows and the overwhelming glowing river of blood. The speed increases as the party rides a tornado of shadow across the plane that connects the realms of the dead with the living. The tornado turns into a water spout as it crosses the lake that surrounds the Lands of the Dead.
Then all awareness stops for a time. When the group awakens, they are standing at attention before the throne of Gargul. He sits there, regally, full of power.
Before him floats Flower, the most beautiful female in all of creation. She is speaking with Gargul. "THEY HAVE HAD A ROUGH DAY, GARG, BE PATIENT WITH THEM. THEY ARE YOUNG AND LEARNING. WOULD YOU STRIKE THEM DOWN IN THEIR YOUTH OR TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO HELP THEM MATURE?"
Gargul bristles at being called "Garg," and glares at her. "I TAKE YOUR POINT, LITTLE DANCER," he replied with a vindictive smile. "I PROVIDED THE WAY WITH THE LOWLIEST OF METHODS. LET US SEE WHAT THEY ARE MADE OF, SHALL WE? STAND BESIDE ME AND WE SHALL SPEAK WITH THEM."
Flower, nods and smiles at his repartee. "THEY ARE HERE." She moves to stand beside the throne, traipsing her body against the throne in a very sensuous way that instantly catches Gargul's notice.
She's definitely not a "little dancer" anymore.
The God of Life and Death turns his gaze upon the Double Fist party. "I WILL NOW HEAR YOUR PETITION FOR YOUR FRIEND AND COMRADE. WHO WILL SPEAK."
AC 20,T 16,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 15/42 Cameron (David Feest) Tuesday July 15th, 2014 12:01:20 PM
Cameron tears his attention away from Flower long enough to hear Gargul's request. Cameron steps forward and focuses his attention on the throne. Looking at Gargul was a bit scary, and looking at Flower all of his words fled his lips. His fatigued mind was not that focused to begin with, and the weight of his past decisions was tugging his emotions in all kinds of directions. He clenched his jaw again, and the dull pain brought his focus back. He stood as tall as his small, battered frame would allow and addressed the two deities, for once not trying to influence them in any way with his words, gods were above such things were they not? Two gods. He was actually speaking to two gods. amazing " I was not with the Double Fist when Linden sacrificed himself to save one of our comrades. Because I was not there to help I feel responsible for Linden's and Cobbleshot's deaths. Instead of doing my duty to the Fist I was protecting a caravan of performers from gnoll raiders. We had been ordered to leave them to their own devices to get to the town, but I couldn't leave them alone to face the gnolls that had already hurt and killed some of them. I am torn. I know that helping them was the right thing to do, every fiber of my upbringing tells me that. Yet by doing it I betrayed the trust put in me by my comrades, and Linden paid for that with his life. How can doing the right thing be wrong I keep asking myself." "The question at hand is Linden's and Cobbleshot's lives. I would greatly desire that you grant me the boon of allowing them to return to the Wold. I will strive to do whatever you ask to have this granted to them. My guilt or innocence in this matter will be decided by mortal hands, but Linden and Cobbleshot shouldn't pay for it with their lives." "Thank you" Cameron steps back into the line. He feels better having said what he can to bring his two fallen Fist Mates back to the living. He is sure he will not be so well received at his hearing.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 20 with Mage Armor and PfE; hp 23/23 Tuesday July 15th, 2014 12:45:10 PM
As William wasn't involved in all the ceremony, he remains at the fort, helping the wounded, clearing up the mess using his magic to summon minor creatures to help, etc...
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 16/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday July 15th, 2014 1:16:10 PM
Tinker had never imagined coming face to face with two dirties of the wold! For a moment, he stands still, literally unable to do anything else!
Cameron's words penetrate, and breaks (slightly) the spell of awe, at least enough for the dwarf to speak.
"I am Daemar, and I will speak. In the battle I hurried forward hoping to plug a hole, not realizing the strength of the enemy. While I tried to delay, I only succeeded in laying in a pool of my own blood for the rest of the battle. It was Linden who kept healing and gave his life so that others may live. It was Cobbleshot who plugged the gap with his arrows and finally his own body. They are the heroes of the village. "
Prudence Gundle [AC 17; HP 19/39] (Kathy) Tuesday July 15th, 2014 2:28:43 PM
Pru averts her eyes. She's been taught how to curtsey, of course, but she's not wearing skirts. She attempts a bow.
"Lord Gargul," she attempts, but her mouth is desert-dry, and all she manages is a squeak. She tries again.
"Lord Gargul, I humbly beseech you to allow Linden another chance at life." She blinks a few times, trying to order her thoughts. They stubbornly resist being gathered into any kind of order, so what comes out next is all garbled together in a rush. "Linden is really nice, My Lord, and very gentle, too, which you wouldn't expect from a soldier, but he is. He's kind to everybody and always tries to help and he's funny and he never says or does anything the least bit mean. He--" she stops, and manages to choke, "--he's my friend."
Bliss (AC22, HP23) (Cayzle) Tuesday July 15th, 2014 3:04:24 PM
Bliss stares goggle-eyed. He tries to speak, fails, tries again, fails.
Then he looks down at his feet. He thinks if he does not actually look at these beings, maybe he can get the words out.
"Um, Lord Gargul, I promised I'd serve you when I became a witch, like my mama did, even if Aunt Priss didn't think it was a good idea. Please bring Lindy back to life. He is a good person, like Pru says. And please don't blame Cam, he was just doing what he thought was right. He's a hero, I think. And so was Lindy. He rushed up to save his friends. He is brave and everything. Please."
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 28/43 (John C) Tuesday July 15th, 2014 3:26:26 PM
Carver, doing a combination of bowing from his waist, also kneels like a horse would, and comes back to attention. "I'm not very well versed as some of my other fist mates are Lord Gargul. Linden may seem useless to those who don't know him very well, occasionally he seems that way to me as well, if I'm to be honest. But he does follow someone other than you so, I assume he is doing his duty to Flower in the way he is expected to, which is more than some others do, even those who profess to be holier than others. Your decision is yours to make, but Linden and Cobbleshot give up their lives so others could continue the battle and protect innocent people who were in danger from the attackers. Both of them, would be welcome additions to the lands of rest, but also both of them would be of greater value in lands of the living. I leave the choice of whether they remain with you here or return with us entirely in your just hands." Carver then steps back and casually looks about, being here in this land, he is looking to see if his ancestor is lurking around the edges....
AC 21 w/shield of faith, AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS DEAD Linden (Jay B) Tuesday July 15th, 2014 6:29:33 PM
Liinden reaches out to his goddess, Flower. Strangely, however, he feels a pull for Gargul as well. Maybe this is what it means to be Fist? Maybe he is meant to be with Lord Gargul this early? Maybe Flower needs him?
(OOC: Still coming back! Just inner monologue! ;))
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 24/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Tuesday July 15th, 2014 6:39:36 PM
OOC: 'face to face with two dirties of the wold!' - really, SteveK? LOL
Nikolai is glad others spoke up first, it game him some time to get his own thoughts together. He stands at attention, mainly because he does not know how else to stand in front of deities. After saluting, he begins.
"Lord Gargul, Lady Flower. All of us here benefit from Linden's company, either in the barracks or on the battlefield. The day in question, Linden not only sacrificed his life for Tinker, but for Pru and I, as each one of us would have been killed had he not used his power to transfer the wounds to himself. But I cannot ask Lord Gargul for something I know not of. I don't know if Linden or Cobbleshot want to come back to the living. What I can humbly ask, from one that should be dead but for Linden, is that you give them a choice."
This is What Shapes a Man [DM Jerry] Tuesday July 15th, 2014 11:14:46 PM
Flower, lounging against the side of Gargul's throne turns her lithe body toward his. "SEE GARG, i TOLD YOU THAT..."
"SILENCE!!!"
His voice echoes throughout the Lands of Rest. Even Flower blanches. Gargul, the God of Life and Death, stands and drives his walking cane into the stone before his throne.
::THWAMM!!!::
"THIS DAY THESE MORTALS HAVE COME OF AGE. THE EXPERIENCES OF THIS BATTLE WILL LIVE WITH THEM WHILE THEY WEAR THE SPARK OF LIFE. THEY WILL STRUGGLE TO LEARN FROM IT, HAVE NIGHTMARES ABOUT IT, AND DOUBT THEIR DECISIONS AS THEY SHOULD FROM THIS DAY FORWARD.
"KNOW THIS YOUNG ADVENTURERS, FOR ADVENTURERS YOU ARE, THIS IS ONLY THE FIRST OF MANY SUCH DAYS. THE BURDENS GROW HEAVIER AS YOUR ABILITY TO BEAR THEM INCREASES. THAT IS WHAT SHAPES A MAN. FORCES HIM TO GROW OR GIVE UP.
"LIFE AND DEATH IS FULL OF THE DECISIONS THAT EACH OF YOU FACED DURING THE BATTLE, AS WELL AS AFTER. CHERISH THESE TESTS OF LIFE, FOR IT WILL SCULPT YOU INTO THE POSSIBILITY OF WHAT YOU MAY BECOME."
"I WILL NOT JUDGE YOU THIS DAY, AS TO THE ACTIONS AND CHOICES YOU MADE. YOUR CONSCIENCES ALREADY SERVE YOU WELL IN THIS REGARD. RESPONSIBILITY VS HONOR. WRESTLE WITH THESE CHOICES."
Gargul sits.
Flower, totally serious now, also speaks, in a normal voice, seemingly for effect.
"Some of you gentlemen do not agree with the actions of the others. Some of you doubt own actions. Yet, they were all honest actions done with love and caring for those you were trying to help. You are noble. Let it be enough to know that the decisions of each and every one of you were honest, heroic, and full of love."
She then stands and comes forward to each of you, kissing you on the forehead.
"I'LL BE WATCHING."
Gargul yanks his cane out of the ground. "NOW TO BUSINESS."
He looks into the distance across the Lands of Rest.
"COBBLESHOT, COME FORTH."
He does, bowing and looking exceedingly nervous.
"YOU HAVE EARNED LIFE SHOULD YOU WANT IT. YET, I RESPECT YOUR DECISION TO STAY HERE, REST, AND PREPARE FOR A NEXT LIFE. SAY YOUR GOODBYES."
Cobbleshot, bows again to Gargul and turns to the group, a slight smile on his face that is both happy and sad.
The old squaddie grins and rubs his bald head vigorously, as if wrestling with a decision. Finally he sighs and shrugs his shoulders.
"It aint so bad lads, bein' dead. There's a lot of fighting and dying that goes on in the Fist and it was starting to wear on me anyways. After my wife left, the Fist was a way to pass the years alone but not alone. I'm grateful eternal to Carren for lettin' me be me an lettin' me be a part of the team while being as alone as I needed when I needed it."
He straightens up and claps his hands.
"Well thats it then! Thanks for the intervention everyone, but I'm stayin' here. Tinker, you watch after your pups in Double Fist and tell Carren I said thanks for it all!"
Cobbleshot backs up, away from the others and heads again towards Gargul and Flower.
Prudence Gundle [HP 19/39] (Kathy) Wednesday July 16th, 2014 12:36:00 PM
Pru can't help but feel a little left out when Flower addresses the group as "you gentlemen."
It doesn't matter, she tells herself firmly. Flower loves me. Flower loves everybody.
She watches Cobbleshot depart. "Bye, Cobbleshot," she says softly. "I'm sorry the gnolls got you."
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 28/43 (John C) Wednesday July 16th, 2014 1:24:21 PM "I'll be sure to relay your sentiment to Carren and the rest of your fist, I'd say be well, but you'd already dead, so I'll just say, enjoy your rest and may you find the loved ones you've lost and be reunited."
Bliss (AC22, HP23) (Cayzle) Wednesday July 16th, 2014 2:46:04 PM
Bliss falls down when Gargul speaks so harshly. "SILENCE!" said his god, and that's an order he's not about to disobey!
When the goddess approaches and kisses him on the forehead, Bliss is overwhelmed. He dares not disobey Gargul by saying "Thank you," but he thinks it real loud in his head. Maybe Flower hears.
Bliss waves farewell to Cobbleshot, not trusting himself to speak, even after Gargul says it is okay to say goodby.
AC 20,T 16,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 15/42 Cameron (David Feest) Wednesday July 16th, 2014 4:12:25 PM
Flower's presence in front of him is overwhelming. Then she KISSES him on the forehead! Cameron's senses are overloading. Is this what mother felt when she prayed for her daily prayers? Is it what Linden feels? Total acceptance despite whatever fears and misgivings I myself have? Truly intoxicating She moves on too the person next to Cameron, but the feeling persists. Not being devoted to any one god, he wasn't sure what it felt like to pray to one and have those prayers answered with powerful spells. All he knew was the power of performance. Still he tears his attention back to the present and looks at Cobbleshot. He looks kind of relieved. No more decisions, no more worries. " Goodbye Cobbleshot. Carren already knows, but we'll tell him. Rest well and prepare for the next turn of the wheel." What if Linden decides to stay? What would they do then? The team they had would be broken. Cameron waits for Linden to be called forward.
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 16/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday July 16th, 2014 7:35:09 PM
Tinker is overwhelmed by Gargul's presence and pronouncement. The Grey Lord's words still ring in his ears as Flower descends to the group and kisses him on the forehead! Sparks light behind his eyes and he is all but deaf and dumb to anything else in the Wold.
It is the down-to-earth Cobbleshot who is able to refocus the dwarf. The older man was a good companion, able to trot down the road all day and not need to say a word, but always know he's there if trouble comes. And the man deserves his rest. They may be the same age, but humans age faster, and elves age so slowly, they act like much younger people nearly all the time. Tinker understands Cobbleshot, and it seems that the human had the same regard for Tinker, too. "I will. Good rest to you, Cobbleshot."
And then Tinker turns expectantly to see what is Linden's choice.
AC 21 w/shield of faith, AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS DEAD Linden (Jay B) Wednesday July 16th, 2014 8:17:20 PM
Waits. Might be called soon.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 24/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Wednesday July 16th, 2014 10:04:40 PM
Nikolai goes stiff when Lord Gargul speaks, the voice resonating throughout his body. He tries to concentrate on the words but he becomes slightly distracted when thoughts of how he'd tell his father about this.
His knees then go wobbly when Flower approaches and kisses his forehead. It takes all the effort of 3 years training at staying at attention through rain, cold, heat, and shouting sergeants to keep his knees from buckling but he manages it.
Now how would he tell his father about this!
He salutes Cobbleshot as the veteran turns to return to the Lands of Rest. He suspects that Linden, far younger and eager for life and adventure, will choose the opposite.
The Choice is Truly Yours [DM Jerry] Wednesday July 16th, 2014 11:11:16 PM
When all the goodbyes are said, Cobbleshot, seemingly torn, doesn't know whether to stay to see what will happen with Linden or to leave and be with family and loved ones. It is obvious he feels a pull in both directions.
Gargul looks almost softly at him and says, "COBBLESHOT, GO TO YOUR FAMILY. REST."
Cobbleshot throw up a perfect salute to the god and then bows as well. Smiling, his burdens relieved, he joyfully says, "So long friends. Until next time." Then turning he walks quickly into the waiting arms of a small group of spirits just outside the throne room amphitheater.
"NOW, LINDEN COME FORTH! WHAT IS YOUR DECISION, YOUNG ONE. WILL YOU RETURN TO THE LAND OF MORTALS OR REMAIN HERE. THE CHOICE IS TRULY YOURS."
Bliss starts to get nervous. What if Lindy doesn't show up? He doesn't have to. Some spirits get trapped in the deep shadows. That's what happened to HIM when he died. He was so lost he never even made it to Lord Gargul. Or sometimes spirits do not want to come. They prefer to be ghosts or worse.
He looks around, trying to peer through the shadows. [Perception 20].
Bliss calls out, very softly, like a whisper, "Lindy? Liiiindyyyy? Come oooouuut! Linnndyy!"
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 28/43 (John C) Thursday July 17th, 2014 4:16:45 PM "Don't worry Bliss, Linden will arrive in his own time. Just remember how he is in life, he does things his own way, even if it is not by regulations or according to orders." Carver rests his hand comfortingly on Bliss' shoulder to steady the young lad..... Here he is steadying a friend and calling him at least mentally a young lad, and Carver himself isn't truly much older, just seemingly he has more experience.
Prudence Gundle [HP 19/39] (Kathy) Thursday July 17th, 2014 6:19:03 PM
Pru waits, chewing her lip. She's not even sure what she's hoping for. Should she hope that Linden chooses to return and join the Double Fist again? But would that be selfish? Maybe instead she should wish that Linden find peace with his family. But if that's the way it's supposed to be, why had Lord Gargul given him this choice in the first place? Was it possible to choose wrong?
Maybe that's what she should hope for. I hope Linden makes the right choice. For him.
AC 21 w/shield of faith, AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS DEAD Linden (Jay B) Thursday July 17th, 2014 9:18:58 PM
Linden moves forward, at a trot, from the shadows. "This place is spooky! Most of my family are still alive, 'cept the greatgrand sires and they are grumpy. Let's get out of here." He moves to Bliss and leans down to his little buddy and whispers. "Dude, chillax." Then realizing the presence of the gods, he turns an eye to the ground. "Their watching huh?" He stands. "Lord Gargul. Sir. This place is a bummer..... um, anyway. I think I'm happy to return." If Flower remains, he shoots her a grin and wave.
AC 20,T 16,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 15/42 Cameron (David Feest) Thursday July 17th, 2014 9:51:26 PM Yup, just seeing him here, reacting to her. He feels the same thing when he prays each day/ That's my answer to that. " Welcome back Linden, lets get you home eh?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 24/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Thursday July 17th, 2014 9:58:43 PM
To Nikolai the time from Lord Gargul's call and Linden's appearance was only moments. To Bliss, it seemed like an eternity. Time, here, had no meaning. It felt strange. He imagined returning to the town and finding out they'd barely been gone at all!
But Linden's choice did not surprise Nikolai. He would have made the same choice had it been he instead of Linden. You have to feel ready, and Lord Gargul knows part of being in the Land of Rest is being ready to be there and being happy to be there. At least that's how it made sense to Nikolai.
Nikolai waits for Lord Gargul's response, still standing at attention.
Dishonored [DM Jerry] Thursday July 17th, 2014 11:22:28 PM
Gargul frowns. Then his eyes bore into Linden.
"DO NOT MAKE A MOCKERY OF MY THRONE ROOM!!!"
His voice echoes around the room.
"LIFE AND DEATH IS NOT FRIVOLOUS! YOU TREAT IT TOO LIGHTLY. IS THIS HOW YOU WOULD TALK TO YOUR REGIMENT COMMANDER? THE FIELD MARSHALL MAJOR?"
He stops, trying his best to not blast the young man into oblivion.
Flower speaks up. Even she has a shocked look on her face. In her normal voice she says,
"You tried to be clever. It didn't work."
Gargul stands and paces. He looks about to blow his top. Finally he turns to Linden rising to his full height.
"YOU DISHONOR YOUR FIST. BEGONE!"
With no fanfare, Linden disappears. A moment later, the Double Fist does too.
There is no "scenic return trip." It is uneventful. No bells and whistles. No crash landings. No fanfare. One moment you are before the throne of the God of Life and Death. The next you are back in the field where Linden's body had laid.
Linden is not there.
Far above a small scream is heard. A form falls. Spinning and with arms and legs flailing, it falls. And screams. Then with a small poof it lands where it dies.
Linden.
He lives, barely.
It remains to be seen as to whether that is a good thing or a bad or a good one.
-------
OOC: Linden has 1 hit point.
I hereby return the game to its normal DMs.
AC 21 w/shield of faith, AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS 1/41 Linden (Jay B) Thursday July 17th, 2014 11:41:36 PM
Laying in the dirt, eyes closed, no time to reply, the response comes too easily, low and weak. "Lord, the Commander would understand. He's..... used..... to it.... by.... now." He has no words in response to his Goddess. That one hurt. He's fast asleep.
Bliss (AC22, HP23) (Cayzle) Thursday July 17th, 2014 11:54:35 PM
"Oh man, I thought Mookie would get us in trouble! But it was you, Lindy, that ticked off the god."
Bliss giggles.
"That IS how you talk to officers, isn't it!"
The Voices Friday July 18th, 2014 12:42:49 PM
Bliss's harmless giggling is quickly interrupted.
"He has offended me."
Bliss looks around, but no one is there.
"I call in my token, Bliss."
The voice is powerful, deep and brooding.
"Say your farewells. I have need of you elsewhere. All will be right."
As Bliss looks around one last time, he is growing in certainty this voice belongs to no mortal. As he scans his surroundings, far to the east there is a giant column of light. Somethings pulls at him. Something powerful that will not wait for very long. Gargul isn't know for his patience.
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 28/43 (John C) Friday July 18th, 2014 12:55:55 PM
Carver bows his head and just stands there, he'd been banished from the presence of his god and was left with questions unasked. He had some information on how to become more attuned to Gargul, but due to one of his friends, he was now left without the chance to ask them and with feelings about said friend totally confused.... in a low soft mumble he is heard to say... "Lord Gargul, I can't and won't apologize for his actions, but if it pleases you, do not hold it against me, I will find a way to ask you what needs to be asked, have faith in me, please......"
Prudence Gundle [HP 19/39] (Kathy) Friday July 18th, 2014 1:09:27 PM YOU DISHONOR YOUR FIST.
But...but Linden was just being Linden. Thoroughly confused, Pru looks at the still form lying on the ground. Linden had acted just the same way he acted all the time. Pru never found it to be dishonoring.
But Gargul had said it was, and the gods are never wrong.
So, Linden had been dishonoring them the whole time? And Pru hadn't even realized it.
She tries to feel dishonored, but mostly still feels confused. "Linden?" she asks. "Linden, are you okay?"
AC 20,T 16,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 15/42 Cameron (David Feest) Friday July 18th, 2014 1:46:12 PM " Hope no one else dies. Gargul will not be happy to ever see us again. On the bright side, Flower was nice to us. Wish I could nap, but now we get to march back to the Citadel, and my hearing. Shall we...?" Cameron climbs back into his saddle and awaits the order to move out.
Bliss (AC22, HP23) (Cayzle) Friday July 18th, 2014 3:19:35 PM
"Welp," says Bliss, "That's as clear as clear can be." He feels the divine command like a direct order from a commanding officer. "And if there's one thing the Fist has taught me, it's how to follow orders!"
But Cam is asking the group to head back to HQ. That's not on the way! He walks over to Cam, reaching in a pocket as he walks and taking out his slingshot.
"Sorry Cam," he says. "But I'm not headed back. Maybe Lord Gargul did hear what Mookie said, or maybe seeing me just reminded him that I owe him a favor. Either way, he has something else for me to do."
"And I wanted to say I thought you were brave to help those circus folks. Braver than me."
"Anyway, please take this." Bliss hands Cam his homemade slingshot (it is a small masterwork sling reskinnd as a "slingshot.")
Next he walks over to Prudence. "Miss Pru," he says, "Thank you for everything." he hands her a magic fishbowl with a small goldfish swimming in it. (A 6" diameter sealed glass sphere containing water and a live ornamental fish - an iridescent gold-silver fish with black tips on its fins. The glass sphere has a minor conjuration enchantment that provides fresh, circulated water and food to the fish. It swims in lazy, contented circles. (4lb.) (Lotto win, 20 Apr 14).
"It is pretty and fiery, just like you," he says, blushing.
Next he walks over to Nikolai. He bows in the monkish fashion. "Master Nik, thank you for helping to teach me about fighting with my hands and dodging things with my will power and stuff."
Bliss holds his hand up to shake Carver's. "You were patient and nice when I was scared and nervous. I'll never forget you."
He walks over to William and tells him, in a whisper, "It's okay, I'm kinda scared of Gargul too. I hope you do not have to ever see him unless you want to. He shakes hands and moves on.
Bliss walks over to Tinker and grins. He says in dwarvish, "It has been a pleasure to sneak around with you, Mister Tinker. You keep practicing, and you'll be as quiet as me some day!"
Finally, Bliss runs and jumps right on Linden's back. He digs out his cure wand and gives him some hit points back. "Come *ON* Lindy! Get up! You're okay! Come on, let's ride one more time! Gee, horsie! Geeee!"
He whispers into his ear as he hugs the centaur, "And Lindy, please try not to make the officer types angry!"
After his good-byes, he calls Mookie down, and casts Enlarge on him. "Time for us to fly, Mookie old pal!"
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 16/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+1=6 ; Friday July 18th, 2014 5:55:02 PM
Tinker's head is reeling from everything that has happened in the space of a bare breath. Two gods, and Linden being Linden, and the loss of Bliss. He stands numbly at the little halfling's quip, and can only think of the last thing said... don't piss off the officers.
Silently, the dwarf goes to help Linden with a potion of cure light wounds, and then prepares for the trek back to the Citadel.
............
Cure Light Wounds Potion: Linden gets 6 hit points
AC 21 w/shield of faith, AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS 7/41 Linden (Jay B) Friday July 18th, 2014 6:27:57 PM
OOC: how many points does Bliss give Linden back? And thanks!
The centaur wakes, and very shaky, stands like a new foal. He looks down at Bliss, his expression dark, brooding and sour. Then he simply begins to weep openly. He says nothing.
To his departing friend, he says, "My friends, Bliss and Mookie, I'll miss you guys and may God bless you as you go forward. If there's anything you ever need from me, don't be afraid to find me and ask, as you've been loyal companions."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 24/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Friday July 18th, 2014 9:29:55 PM
Nikolai feels dejected. At first he just stands there where the god placed them. He thought that things were going well. He felt proud to be so young and be in the presence of gods. Not many can say that and be alive to live and fight another day. Then Linden went and did a 'Lindy'.
Nikolai shudders.
Then Linden comes flailing out of the sky and Nikolai things he's going to splat all over the town and flinches but the centaur just plops.
What can one say? Linden looks like he learned something. Maybe it's OK to be somewhat disrespective to one's officer, but certainly not a god!
His fist-mates get Linden back on his hooves and Nikolai busies himself with his horse. There'll be time later to say something helpful to his friend. There's a trip back to the Citadel to think about, and some gnolls still out there that may cause some mischief. Gotta remain alert, at all times.
Bliss (AC22, HP23) (Cayzle) d8=6 ; d8=7 ; d8=5 ; Saturday July 19th, 2014 3:39:51 PM
For Linden: three wand cures from Bliss: 21 curing.
Bliss frowns. "Come on, don't cry!"
Bliss starts to get weepy too.
Mookie rolls his eyes, but mercifully doesn't say anything. Highlight to display spoiler: {If you look super sharp, are those rolling eyes a little moist? Nah! Impossible.}
AC 21 w/shield of faith, AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS 28/41 Linden (Jay B) Saturday July 19th, 2014 5:29:17 PM
Linden pats Bliss' head, still not smiling, or saying anything. His head hangs, tail droops. He waves to his friend and Mookie and begins walking lazily off in some random direction. It is hard to hard to tell, but he might have said "Bye Blizzard."
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 28/43 (John C) Saturday July 19th, 2014 8:44:14 PM "You have to do, what you have to do. The same as Cameron did. I don't blame you, just like I don't blame him. I expect that you will probably be going and not returning, this does sadden me, so be well. Now to explain something to Cameron if he'll listen and not get mad and storm off. The reason I said I was in a quandary was due to your having left the fist short handed.... I can understand just why you did what you did, just that I can also see the situation from the side that the Mailed Fist is going to take when they court Marshall you. I want to defend your choice, but if they call upon me I may have to prosecute you. That would be the worst of all worlds from my view, because to defend the honor of the mailed fist I would have to do my best to convict you even though I still count you as a friend." Carver is sad to see Bliss go, he was a interesting little kid, even if the bird was a pain the butt, but the double fist has now lost 1 person permanently, 1 person basically on report and 1 who seems severely changed, but having died it is understandable that changes happen......
AC 20,T 16,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 15/42 Cameron (David Feest) Sunday July 20th, 2014 9:00:44 AM " What I said I still mean. Do what you have to do and don't get all teary and mopey about it. From my perspective I did what I had t do and I knew what might happen because of it. There are legitimate tactical reasons, but from what I have heard they will not apply. If called to testify I expect you to do so and not perjure yourself. More than one of us going down for this decision would not make it better or benefit the Fist. They will decide what they decide. It won't change my conviction that I did what I had to, no matter their decision." Cameron isn't angry. He just wants the Fist to get over it. If asked to give their account he expects that they will all answer truthfully and completely.
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 16/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Sunday July 20th, 2014 9:17:12 AM
Tinker remains with Linden, making sure he doesn't wander too far, being a shoulder to lean on, letting the centaur get used to being alive, seeing woldian gods and goddesses, and the impending loss of Bliss.
Prudence Gundle [HP 19/39] (Kathy) Monday July 21st, 2014 2:07:32 AM
"But--" Automatically, Pru reaches out to take the goldfish bowl. "But--but, Bliss, where are you going? You can't--I mean--" She looks around, utterly bewildered.
"All right, that's it," she says. "It stops here. Nobody else leaves, or dies, or stays behind with circus folk. We stay together, from now on." She looks down at the circling goldfish, trying hard not to cry.
Bliss (AC22, HP23) (Cayzle) Monday July 21st, 2014 11:55:51 AM
Bliss wipes his eyes. "Crying can fix things," he says solemnly. H's still teary, though.
"I'm sorry friends. I gotta go. I got to go. Sorry."
"Lord Gargul is not a tame god," Mookie says softly.
Bliss gets his things, packs everything away, and reduces himself again.
"Bye bye, my friends! I'll see you in dreams and otherwheres! Take care!"
Mounting up on enlarged Mookie, the tiny halfling flies away.
DM Ken E. Monday July 21st, 2014 12:00:15 PM
As the benevolent, though sometimes merciless attentions of Gargul and his fellow Gods withdraw from Double Fist, they are left emotionally drained. Even worse, Bliss now feels the call of Gargul in a different direction.
Honest and direct, as he always is, the young sniper tells the others he must go and departs, soaring upon the wings of his friend Mookie.
Prudence makes a powerful statement. From now on, they would stick together.
Cameron and Carver continue their icy relationship, soured by their opposing views of what constitutes duty. And it is duty that interrupts their somber reunion.
Color Sergeant Carren trots towards you, his long hair bouncing like a Fabio shampoo commercial.
"Double Fist, your lot has been detached from our Squad by command. We aren't bedmates anymore, just a couple of Fists now. Head home, Knight Commander Palance has requested you head back to debrief while we stick around here for awhile. Trammack will meet you at the northern gate when you are ready!"
Carren starts to leave, then turns and gives Pru a strong salute.
"I've always had my doubts about the place of spellcasters in regular squad assignment, Lance Corporal. I've felt they either absorb too many resources in the way of bodyguards, or were too brittle. But Turley told me how you continued to burn away those miserable creatures at close quarters without fear and without expecting rescue from the Squad. You performed admirably."
With a wink and a grin, he turns about face and trots back to his men.
Saddled up, your group meets Sgt. Trimmack by the gate. When you are all ready, it is time to go. The townsfolk give you a hearty cheer as you depart. Krog the Magnificent takes a small break from his new job in raising the towns walls, and waves cheerfully at Cameron.
The first couple of days travel is at a leisurely pace. When you come across the spot where you first encountered the traveling caravan, Sgt. Trimmack calls you to a halt. He looks a bit conflicted.
"Carver, I want to know where these Gnolls attacked from before we return. Divide the Fist and take a look. I want two groups maximum, for security purposes."
[Please each award yourselves 800xp for the combat. Also, make note somewhere of the magic items you received.]
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 28/43 (John C) Monday July 21st, 2014 1:24:11 PM
Carver speaks quickly, without seeming to think about it, "Pru, I'm leaving you in charge of the the second group, who will remain in this area with Nikolai, Tinker and Linden, your job will be to keep watch and to be on guard in case the other group comes back, which I'll be leading with gnolls in pursuit. Find a spot that's near by and is defensible. William you and Cameron are with me, You for your ability to summon creatures that can aid us if we run into trouble and Cameron, you're much better at tracking than the rest of us. Not to say you're a professional tracker, just that you are much more observant, which counts in following tracks. Cameron, you were out with me if I remember correctly and we followed the beaten grass, but not back to it's beginning, you'll be in charge of the tracking, I'll be watching with William in the other directions so we aren't surprised and ready to charge in needed. Pru, expect us back in no more than 12 hours, that's six out and six back. We should be able to locate them by then or they're further off than we expect and we'll all follow the trail tomorrow." With orders given, Carver pulls out his lance and approaches Pru, Niko and Tinker, each separately saying to each, "Keep a eye on Linden, his change worries me." He approaches Linden, "Chin up Linden, Flower seemed to accept you as you are, even if it's not what Gargul expected."
"Let's move out people."
AC 19,T 15,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 42/42 Cameron (David Feest) d8=5 ; d8=8 ; d8=8 ; d20+10=15 ; d20+6=24 ; d20+7=25 ; d20+11=14 ; d20+9=12 ; d6=1 ; Monday July 21st, 2014 2:22:32 PM
Cameron bristles at being told he isn't a professional tracker by someone that couldn't follow a water buffalo through a mud field, but says nothing and unlimbers his bow and checks the pull to be sure it is ready. He again leaves the tanglefoot bags on his mount but keeps his alchemist fire on his person. Having nursed his horse back to health after the forced march he finds the mount much better behaved than normal. He plans to lead it as he tracks, staying on the ground where he can see the sign better. The trail is old, almost a week old now. Had the gnolls taken ant pains to conceal it in the first place he wouldn't be able to find it. But, it was made by a ravenous pack of mongrels and Cameron follows the tufts of hair and broken twigs more than the scuffed paw prints and grass that has bent back to normal. With an arrow nocked and ready he pushes of into the forest, silent as a cat stalking prey. Bliss's slingshot tucked into his pouch reminds him how to be quiet. Perception 15 Tracking 24 Handle Animal 25 Stealth 14 Readied shot if they encounter a gnoll and it sees them hits AC 12 (AC 13 if within 30') for 2 damage (3 damage if within 30')
OOC the above rolls assume that "a couple of days" have passed and reflect one days healing from Cameron to himself. I am also assuming he has all his spells available today and is no longer fatigued since he has rested. Is this all right?
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) d20+8=16 ; Monday July 21st, 2014 3:08:58 PM
OOC: remember to update your headers. We'd be all healed up by now.
IC: Nikolai bids Bliss farewell. He doesn't understand it fully, but each one came with his or her own history, and Bliss' was tied to Gargul someway. More importantly, they've got to face the Mailed Fist Commander on Cameron's actions and now explain why another Fist member left, flapping off into the sunset. Nikolai just shrugs. What happens, happens, nothing can me done about it now.
Nikolai is relieved that the third Fist was staying. The town still needed help and there was still a large gnoll band out there, even if their leaders were dead. They'd find new leaders, no doubt about that. He himself would have preferred to stay a week or two and scout out the area but the orders were to return, so return they must.
Reaching the campsite where they first encountered the circus, Nikolai deduces that these gnolls here must be from a different tribe than the one that attacked the town. This may not be true, but it made sense, as they did not go join the others, several days away.
"A lot of gnolls in the area. That leader that we killed might have been strong enough, if he took the town, to gather all the tribes together. That would be a formidable army indeed.
With orders to make a secure camp, Nikolai wastes no time in searching for the best spot to make camp.
Survival +8 = 16
Next, he gets Linden and Tinker to help him position fallen logs to help provide some cover. For Pru he asks her to get some rocks and form a cooking circle and gather enough firewood for the night.
Prudence Gundle [HP 19/39] (Kathy) Monday July 21st, 2014 5:55:51 PM
Sergeant Trimmack had left Carver in charge, and Carver had placed Pru in charge of their little sub-group. So, although she is glad of Nikolai's help, she doesn't let him run things.
"Before we set up camp, let's have a lookout," she says. "Also, let's make sure this is the best place to make camp. Who's a good lookout?"
Not me, she thinks. Any of the other three would probably do an okay job, but she waits for a volunteer. She also welcomes other opinions of the best place to camp.
Once a site is established, she tries to get everyone to work together to shore up the defenses and gather water and firewood. Once their base is mostly established, Pru will set up a watch order.
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 34/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+6=8 ; d20+9=24 ; Monday July 21st, 2014 7:52:03 PM
Tinker listens to Sergeant Trimmack, then Carver, then Prudence. Bean Pole asked for volunteers and the dwarf speaks up. "I've got good eyes and a crossbow. I'll do it."
He looks for a broken wagon, small tree, or just a pile of rocks to scramble up and keep watch, his loaded crossbow in his hand.
..............
Climb - 8
Perception - 24
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 20 with Mage Armor and PfE; hp 23/23 d20+6=14 ; Monday July 21st, 2014 8:46:37 PM
William nods at the command, willing to play the support role he excels at... "I'm fluent in gnoll too so if we hear anything, I'll try to interpret it." he adds.
He follows the other two in his team and has his xbow ready...
Perc 14
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Tuesday July 22nd, 2014 12:00:51 AM 'Hey! I just said that!' Nikolai shrugs. Women. But, he did jump right in and didn't give Pru the chance to prove her leadership abilities. He chuckles as he does what he is 'told' to do.
Looking for a good camp site.
Survival role from above: Survival +8 = 16
DM Ken E. Tuesday July 22nd, 2014 10:55:14 AM
Tracking the Gnolls in daylight would be easy enough, as neither the Gnolls or their large animal companions were worried about concealing their tracks. The trail leads a few miles south to a copse of 10 or 15 trees, then stops cold.
Knowledge Nature: DC 15
Highlight to display spoiler: {These trees are Cypress trees, specifically Glyptostrobus Pensilis, which normally grows in a swampy environments. It is unusual to see a cluster of them growing here in an open plain.}
Back at camp, Trimmack wits with Pru and Nikolai.
"Its strange, seeing Linden up and walking around. I've been in the Fist for awhile, and Gargul usually doesn't let us come back. Something about how if no men stay dead from war, all men would wage it."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) d20+8=22 ; Tuesday July 22nd, 2014 11:39:06 AM
Nikolai chuckles. "That's rather simplistic, isn't it? Most men don't wage war simply because they want to fight and kill. There's reasons behind waging war, even if it is simply selfishness, greed, or Power. I think most men just want to live peacefully, get married, have families, grow old, without bloodshed. But, we'll never know for sure, will we?
Nikolai looks for edible berries for a treat when the others get back.
Survival +8 = 22
AC 19,T 15,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 42/42 Cameron (David Feest) d20+1=4 ; d20+6=26 ; d20+1=19 ; d20+1=14 ; Tuesday July 22nd, 2014 1:10:13 PM
Cameron follows the tracks back to the trees but then loses the path. He searches for some time but it isn't just hard to find, it is gone. Knowledge Nature 4 Tracking 26 " The trail leads into this stand of rees and then vanishes, boss. I did sweeps out from here t a hundred yards or so and nothing, there is no trail. It is like they were summoned here or something." Knowledge Arcane 19 Knowledge Planes 14 Cameron keeps looking, holding his bow ready, but he becomes more and more certain that somehow, someway, the gnolls just appeared here. Which is pretty disturbing.
OOC Was it obvious that the one gnoll, the large demonic one, was different? Is it conceivable to Cameron that they were somehow gated or teleported here? Because as William will confirm I am sure, a summon does not last as long as they did.
DM Ken E. Tuesday July 22nd, 2014 2:50:42 PM
OOC:
DM honesty time. I have no idea which demon-gnoll you are referring to. Its possible I overdescribed a Flind, or perhaps you are referring to the pack leader that attacked the carnival?
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 28/43 (John C) d20+3=13 ; Tuesday July 22nd, 2014 3:47:41 PM
Carver, listens and thinks a bit before replying.... "Did you check in that copse of trees, there might be a hidden entrance to a tunnel or something. I seem to remember that Gnolls like living underground, of course a lot of creatures do, so I'm probably just thinking of another monster type. Let's the three of us check out those trees carefully, if we can't or don't find anything, we'll head back and make our report, having done all we can to find out where they attacked from."
Perception 13
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 34/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday July 22nd, 2014 5:10:08 PM
Tinker keeps a sharp eye out.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Tuesday July 22nd, 2014 6:21:05 PM
"Well," says Pru. "I'm glad to have Linden back. He's really nice. And he's our only healer."
"Linden?" she adds, seeing the centaur looking a little dazed. "Are you feeling okay? We'll have a fire going soon--do you want some tea or something?"
AC 19,T 15,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 42/42 Cameron (David Feest) d20+10=21 ; Tuesday July 22nd, 2014 6:55:11 PM
Bonus post Reminded that he hadn't done more than look for tracks in the grove of trees, Cameron circles back and searches for a hidden entrance to a cave or something below the grove. Perception 21
AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS 41/41 Linden (Jay B) Tuesday July 22nd, 2014 8:19:09 PM
The first day Linden doesn't even bother topping off his wounds, his natural healing handles a portion, but come the second morning, he casts a cure.
........................... Linden lays, looking at the fire, and just stares at Pru when she asks if he wants tea. It's eerie. In the past, life was in those eyes. Now.... not so much. Pain. Depression. Apathy.
He joins Nik and Tinker for his mission, but avoids doing actual work.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 20 with Mage Armor and PfE; hp 23/23 Tuesday July 22nd, 2014 9:33:28 PM
William follows his while his two teammates search diligently... For now, he remains silent and cautious, trying to find anything of interest or any sign of the gnolls...
_____ DM OOC - I'll be going out of town starting Friday and through the next week. I should have internet access for most of the time, but there may be a few days I won't have it. So don't wait for me to post DM and I'll do my best to get access at our cabin...
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Tuesday July 22nd, 2014 11:38:33 PM
OOC: don't worry, we are good a keeping a conversation going. Have fun. :)
DM Ken E. Wednesday July 23rd, 2014 11:15:50 AM
The renewed investigations pull up little else, other than confirmation by a thorough search that no den is in this area. With no other options, the scout crew returns to camp.
Sgt. Trimmack gives the order to head on out, continuing back the ride back home.
The next couple of days pass in peace, with no real dangers lurking now that you are so close to the Mailed Fist headquarters.
"You know..", he says to no one in particular. "Knight Captain Palance is going to want an immediate report. Carrens misadventure, the combat, tactics you used and why, Lindens death and rebirth, and the suddenly MIA (missing in action) Bliss are all going to need to be covered. We will be home in a day, you guys might want to get your story together. "
He looks at Tinker.
"You're in charge from this point on, at least until the Knight Commander decides on a Thumb."
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Wednesday July 23rd, 2014 4:25:15 PM
"Get our story together?" Pru wonders. Generally, just telling the truth works fine, but she doesn't mention that now. Instead she says. "Well, we usually let Cameron do the talking because he's best at it."
Tactics? she thinks. Had she used tactics? She's not sure "keep setting them on fire until they stop moving" actually constitutes a tactic. Something to consider.
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 43/43 (John C) Wednesday July 23rd, 2014 4:34:41 PM
Having made the report and now almost back to the citadel Carver is glad to turn temporary command over to the next member of the double fist. "Easiest way to explain Bliss' leaving is to say what happened. He was directed by Gargul he was needed elsewhere. We are only mortal and when a GOD, who has just returned a member of the team to the land of the living demands a type of payment, you don't argue with him. At least that's the way I see it. He returned Linden and in return requested Bliss for some other mission elsewhere. I'm not even sure where Bliss was going, so...." And at that, Carver leaves the sentence hanging, unfinished.
AC 19,T 15,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 42/42 Cameron (David Feest) Wednesday July 23rd, 2014 5:04:46 PM "I think you misunderstand what the Sergeant is saying Prudence. B get your story together I believe he means decide who will tell the tale of what happened in Hornfowl. Since Iwas not in Hornfowl. I have only secondhand information from what you all have told me happened. I could spin a tale, yet the Knight Commander is no fool, not even close. She would see that the story was manufactured and then you would need to explain that. No, this time one of you, or all of you, will need to tell the tale of what happened in Hornfowl, including my absence. The Knight Commander will then decide what becomes of me and who takes the position of Thumb in the Fist. I will be disciplined as the Fist sees fit. There is no reason for any of you to be disciplined for making up a tale about an operation that you all saved from being a disaster. From what I was told, had Linden not been suspicious of the unguarded southern gate you all would have been taken from beihind and probably killed to a man. When we arrived the next day, the performers also would have been killed when they walked into a gnoll controlled town exhausted. You all saved the day in Hornfoul, and you should receive the credit for it." Cameron has not said this many words in nearly a week. He has been quiet and stayed apart from the rest of the Fist because only Tinker and Carver have said anything about his dereliction of duty, and only half of that was positive. He hesitates a moment and then says to all present, including Sergeant Trimack, what he has on his mind. " I want to apologize to all of you for not being there in Hornfowl. The orders went against everything I have been brought up on as far as doing the right thing. Linden, I am especially sorry that you were killed. I would love to tell you all that I won't do it again, and in the rest of my service to the Fist a similar situation may never arise again. But if I am to choose between my duty, and my, well my soul I guess you would say, I will not compromise my morals." " I was brought up to defend those that can't defend themselves. Heck, the dwarves that raised me are both Stone Wardens, which means that is exactly what they do, defend the dwarves that can't fight for themselves. It may sound harsh, but you, we, all signed up to fight gnolls, or whatever the Fist tells you to fight. Those performers and their families didn't. I hated leaving you guys, my friends, and pretty much my family to face what was in Hornfowl without me. But I couldn't live with myself if I hadn't helped those people." " I'll tell you now I wasn't the shining star of that fight. Rusty the lion killed at least as many opponents as I did and Krog killed probably twice as many as both of us, and saved my life after I fell. That giant was almost killed once he was alone. Not being the star doesn't mean I didn't make the difference in the fight though. I organized then, I motivated them to not give up and I gave them the hope to fight on." " I'm sorry I let you all down. I pray that you will all forgive me, and that nothing like that ever happens again." Deflated the halfling falls silent. He feels better having said it, but it still weighs on him that his Fist doesn't know if they can rely on him. Maybe they won't have to. The Knight Commander may muster him out for this, or even imprison or execute him. Only time will tell.
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 34/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday July 23rd, 2014 8:10:07 PM
It has been a really weird return to the Citadel. Bliss not there, Linden and Cameron different. And now Tinker is in charge. Fantastic, he thinks sarcastically.
Course, by now, everyone has their normal routine on where they ride during the day, who does what to set up camp, and the watches at night. Tinker decides he doesn't have to explain what everyone knows how to do anyways, and so concentrates his mind on what is different... the report.
"Whoever is in charge, they give the report. That's how it should be, so I will give the report." One decision down, thinks Tinker. "And Cameron is right that the truth is easiest to tell because there is less to try and remember."
"For Hornfowl, the battle swung on Linden; his investigation, calling the alarm, keeping others healed even at his life. Tactics were haphazard and we split our strength in the face of an unknown enemy... bad idea. At the end it came down to beating on the other guy until they were dead first."
"For Bliss, it is like Carver says. He was directed by Gargul he was needed elsewhere."
"For Cameron, Sergeant Carren allowed each of us to make our own choice and Cameron chose to protect the circus group. He succeeded. We succeeded. 'Nuff said."
Tinker helps Cameron out with his camp chores, and takes the opportunity to talk. "I mean it, Cam. You are my battle mate, and I'll walk through the Lands of Rest for you. To me, it looks like you will help the closest group that needs immediate help. Fine. But what if the next time you have to choose between helping a few people now and so can't help a whole bunch of people just a little ways away. You know, for next time." Tinker finishes the chore, gives Cameron a comradely slap on the back, and moves off to help Linden settle in.
AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS 41/41 Linden (Jay B) Wednesday July 23rd, 2014 8:58:00 PM
Not really caring at this point who is leader, or whether he's present at the debriefing, he wonders off to the worship hall/temple area.... but stops abruptly and doesn't enter. He stands just looking at the entrance. He remains there awhile.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Wednesday July 23rd, 2014 9:02:27 PM
Nikolai had purposely stayed out of the discussion of Cameron's decision. Not that he thought Cam had done the right thing, but because he felt there was no way to 'win', as it were. This was one of those times that one must make a decision and no matter which one you make, someone is going to suffer. He would have felt very bad and mourned the loss of the circus folk if they'd been killed, but he would get over it. Cameron might not have.
Someday, Nikolai ponders, that same decision may come his way.
"Well, we could make the point that even though the circus folk were not citizens of Hornfowl, they were heading there and as such could be considered guest-in-transit, or something like that, and therefore considered under our protection as well. It's a long shot, but worth a try."
Meanwhile, Nikolai goes over their tactics again. It seems like the main problem is that they only have one member that can charge into a fight. This is a good tactic in principle, but with no backup to cover the flanks, a serious flaw. This causes others in the group to rush forward to help support the Charger, and then you have a split in the ranks.
On the other hand, they are not like other Fists. They don't have a Shield Wall, Archer Volley, Charging Cavalry Line, etc. They have a large varied skill set that they are going to have to learn to mesh together.
In time they will do so, if they get the time.
"Tinker, tell the Truth. Tell it in short, concise steps. Don't worry about the details, we can fill those in later."
He busies himself back at the camp and spends his time on crafting his item...
(OOC - How many hours do we have for crafting? I'd spent 4 so far this adventure on crafting his 2nd item and would like to focus on that...)
AC 19,T 15,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 42/42 Cameron (David Feest) Wednesday July 23rd, 2014 11:19:12 PM
If a discussion of tactics breaks out, Cameron has some insight into it that he would like to share with the group. " Looking at our skills we are a varied group, at first it looks like we would never be able to fight as a team. Hindsight is perfectly clear, and I have had alot of time to think about this, time that you all in the heat of the moment did not have. That being said look at this as an analysis of how we would probably work best together and not a judgement, eh?" "Linden is our main healer, and thus needs to be within reach of us to do what he does effectively. With that in mind he should form the center of our unit, call him the hub of the wheel. Myself, Prudence and William fight at range and tend to not move too much. For what it is worth we seem to deal our damage at range, but can do more damage as our opponents get closer. We are the spokes of the wheel, staying near the hub and keeping it safe. Nikolai and Tinker can fight at range, but do their best work in melee. Provided they stay in range of Linden's healing and the spoke's support, they are the protection for the spokes, ranging at the edge of the spokes reach they are the surface of the wheel, where the wheel strikes the road. Carver is built to devastate a single target with each charge and one of our best at taking and surviving abuse. So long as he does not go out from the hub, spokes and surface too far, the whole wheel can move to him quickly if he gets in trouble. If we look at our unit like this, think like this, and remember to work like this I think we can be very effective." "Against a large single opponent Carver challenges it, absorbs the abuse and deals heavy damage to it, while the spokes either pour more damage into the main target or help the surface by finishing off their wounded. With multiple targets Caver charges through, likely killing with each charge and the whole wheel simply keeps turning, defending and supporting itself. I think a tactic and a mindset like this would be terribly effective on the battlefield. All we have to do is remember these things when combat erupts."
AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS 41/41 Linden (Jay B) Thursday July 24th, 2014 8:15:22 AM
Ooc. Missed Monday post.
Cayzle comments: Sure, I leave the game and posting goes to heck! :-)
DM Ken E. Thursday July 24th, 2014 2:20:16 PM
With Tinker having made his thoughts on the report and some light tactics discussion, night falls and behind it comes the new day.
Upon returning to the Mailed Fist headquarters, your ponies and horses are taken from you by the groomsmen. You are told to report directly to Constance with no delay, with orders to give a full account of the mission and all factors weighing upon it on arrival. After deliberation, you arrive at her office and knock upon the door.
"Enter!
Constance sits at her desk, clearly impatient for your report.
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 43/43 (John C) Thursday July 24th, 2014 2:29:18 PM
Carver takes a deep breath and then lets it out. Opening the door, he is as settled as he's going to be and walks in as directed. He stands to one side, making sure there is room for the double fist to enter and line up along side him. He will wait until all of the members are in before speaking, unless someone else speaks up first.
AC 19,T 15,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 42/42 Cameron (David Feest) Thursday July 24th, 2014 3:14:58 PM
Cameron makes his finishing touches to his uniform with Prestidigitation, making his creases sharp and removing any grime or stains from the road. Uniform u to par Cameron steps into the office of the Knight Commander and salutes. He holds the salute until it is returned or he is told to be at ease. Tinker is in command at the moment and has said he would present the report. Now all Cameron needs to do is wait and see what the Knight Commander says about the mission.
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 34/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday July 24th, 2014 5:19:01 PM
Tinker expected the commander to do exactly as she has done, and so it is no surprise that the group are hustling to the officer with road dirt and smells all about them. The dwarf doesn't even pause to wipe his face; if she wants now she gets now and bedamned to the niceties.
Tinker waits until all seven are lined up in Constance's office before taking a step forward and snapping a salute. "Lance Corporal Daemar Torvalsson and Trimmack's Thumb reporting as ordered."
"Link up and movement with Carren's Fist accomplished without incident until one day out of Hornfowl where we came across a circus caravan besieged by gnolls. On Carren's refusal to give an order to stay or go, Lance Steelshaper chose to stay and lead the caravan safely to Hornfowl, which they were able to do through a day-long running fight before entering mostly intact the morning of our departure."
"At Hornfowl, the gnolls made an obvious simultaneous attack on three sides while secretly tunneling under the low wall. Lance Linden conducted an interior sweep which discovered the ruse, raised the alarm, and stayed at the critical spot while keeping others healed even at his life. Tactics were haphazard and we split our strength in the face of an unknown enemy... bad idea. At the end it came down to beating on the other guy until they were dead first. It was here that Trooper Cobbleshot died."
"After the battle, Lance Bliss was directed by an unknown force to open conversation to Gargul where Linden was returned. Shortly after, Gargul cashed in his chips and Bliss was called to follow his god."
"At this time, the other members of Trimmack's Thumb will provide their analysis of their part in the battle."
Tinker shuts up and takes a step back into the line.
AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS 41/41 Linden (Jay B) Thursday July 24th, 2014 6:51:48 PM
OOC: Checkin'
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 20 with Mage Armor and PfE; hp 23/23 Thursday July 24th, 2014 10:13:26 PM
William, his uniform immaculate, boots polished and overall appearance excellent, joins the others in saluting their leader. He fills in information when appropriate as the others give their reports, doing his best to put his colleagues in the best light possible...
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Thursday July 24th, 2014 10:27:27 PM Analysis. Oh, Domi help me.
"Um," Pru says. "Um, well, when Linden alerted us that the gnolls were tunneling through in the south, we moved there as quickly as we could. I attacked the gnolls I could reach with my basic spells, and I was able to assist some of the rest of the Fist as they engaged the gnolls. Um, and it wasn't just gnolls; there were hyenas, too. And a dire hyena. And a Flind.
"Anyway, I was able to help for a while, but then my position was overrun and I had a dire hyena in my face and then it was just a question of trying to survive."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Thursday July 24th, 2014 10:53:56 PM
Nikolai, like most of the others, entered the office as dirty as the road. If the Commander wanted to know how bad it was, looking sharp and crisp and smelling like roses would not do it.
He stands at attention while Tinker gives his report. Short, concise, and to the point. Perfect. The Commander can ask for details if she wants them. When Pru mentions her part, that young boyish part of him overcomes his discipline to remain quiet until addressed, and he starts to speak, but has to clear his throat and bring his pitch back down to a more manly tone.
"When I arrived at the scene of the tunnel, Linden was on one flank, Pru was in the middle and Cobbleshot and another Carrne's archer on the other flank. Pru was doing well keeping the enemy at bay with her fire so I tried to assist Cobbleshot so they could use their archery more effectively. But when Pru was pounced upon by the dire hyena, I managed to engage the dire hyena to buy Pru some time. However none of that would have been possible if not for Linden's healing. Sir."
DM Ken E. Friday July 25th, 2014 2:47:48 PM
Constance leans slowly back in her chair, looking at each of you with a neutral expression. Her jaw clenches a few times before she finally speaks.
"So, we've had quite the adventure? Some of you more than others, right Steelshaper? This certainly is NOT what I expected from our prized Double Fist. A simple mission to kill some monstrous humanoids turns into a dead recruit, a dead Lance Corporal who is only still with us thanks to banter with Gargul, and a deserter in Bliss.
She shakes her head.
"THAT one pisses me off the most. I had high hopes for that kid and now I have to send to reclaimers after him."
Constance reaches into her desk drawer and pulls out a report and reads it, then places it back in her desk.
"I've got Trammacks recommendations for Thumb here. He says you gave some interesting responses to his questions and observations of leadership applied directly.. Tinker would rather die and pass on the mantle to another before sacrificing a green recruit to a trap? Nikolai responded cleverly. Carver would rather destroy every foe on the field than negotiate a surrender, even in exchange for a comrades life? And we shall not bother wasting our time speaking of dedication to comrades and mission with you, shall we Steelshaper?"
She looks back down to the report, then takes another from her desk written in her own ink.
"From the Desk of Constance Palance"
Per regulations set in place by Pavilion Nuterius, I hereby recognize and remove from the charter of the Wold Regiment the following asset:
"Wolf Regiment, Hurricane Company, A Troop, Trimmaks Fist."
Per regulations set in place by Pavilion Nuterius, I hereby recognize and add to the charter of the Wold Regiment the following asset:
"Wolf Regiment, Hurricane Company, A Troop, 1st Agents, Nikolai's Fist."
This asset will consist of Lance Corporal Prudence Grundle, Lance Corporal Linden Brereburr, Lance Corporal Daemar Torvalsson - alias "Tinker", Lance Corporal Cameron Honeytamer, Lance Corporal Carver, and Lance Corporal William.. " She pauses, then looks at William. "I couldn't find your last name anywhere. Did you really sign our roster as William the Courageous?
She rolls her eyes, then continues.
"This asset is mustered under the immediate leadership of Lance Corporal Nikolai Komonov.
Constance places the scroll in her desk.
"I hope you understand the significance of what just happened. After watching your squad's performance, it has become increasingly clear that your work as a Fist is too valuable to split apart and place into specialized Fists per regulation. Further, your high percentage of success when making your own decisions, even bad ones Steelshaper, fly directly in the face of our current policy that you be little more than the extension of your commanding officers. We can't have other Fists trying to copy you as things are right now.
You will remain a unit under the designation of Agents. You will remain a part of the rank structure of The Fist, but are immediately re-assignable by any ranking Warrant Officer within the organisation. Your assignments will often times call for quick judgement. Therefore, you are allowed to make field level decisions concerning the actions of your unit, even when not on special detail. You do not have leeway to order a superior, but if your mission requires it, you may ignore orders detrimental to the success of your mission.
With this much autonomy comes a hefty restriction. As long as you are a part of this unit, while your rank may increase, you will never receive a command of your own. This is it, as high up the totem as you go. Sorry, but the Fist needs able teams more than it needs another commissioned officer puffing out his chest.
Finally, all operations will have an after-action report required. Your decisions will need to be explained to myself, or whichever officer has placed you on assignment. Never forget that you might be Agents, but you are still a part of a whole. We haven't had a unit of Agents in Wolf Regiment for a long time. After that, you have 96 hours of liberty before your next assignment. It looks like we have to skimp on your promotion ceremony as well. Usually its our chaplains who put on these ceremonies, and for some reason the Eyes of Gargul have convinced them all to sit out on this one. "
Standing up, she clasps her hands behind her back as she looks down at the training grounds.
"None of you made Trimmacks decision an easy one. Well, except Cameron. A lot of it came down to who he thought truly wanted the responsibility. If there are no more questions, you are dismissed. Steelshaper stand fast."
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 20 with Mage Armor and PfE; hp 23/23 Friday July 25th, 2014 3:38:05 PM
Quick post on the way out of town, William will spend most of his free time trying to craft his next item, which will take the good part of his liberty. I will roll when I get back next week
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Friday July 25th, 2014 4:08:19 PM
Pru breathes a little sigh of releif. She has not been put in charge, Cameron gets to stay with the group, and they have 96 hours of liberty.
Looking forward to a real bath, she salutes Knight Captain Palance and leaves the office.
AC 19,T 15,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 42/42 Cameron (David Feest) Friday July 25th, 2014 4:36:24 PM
Cameron remains at attention as the remainder of the Fist files out. At no time does any of The Knight Commander's language surprise him. He had expected as much coming in. He had responses for each of the points she had mentioned, yet he knew that to answer was death. She did not want answers, she wanted unswerving loyalty. He waits to see what his private meeting will entail.
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 43/43 (John C) Friday July 25th, 2014 4:49:33 PM
Carver salutes and exits the office. He get's outside the building and waits for Cameron.
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 34/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday July 25th, 2014 5:16:22 PM
Tinker looks a bit surprised, he never said that! But he doesn't say anything because he sure felt that way!
The orders to be agents is another surprise. In three years of training, he never heard of an "agent" unit. He's gonna have ask about that.
But that is for later. Now, everyone is told to leave except for Cameron. Tinker hesitates and doesn't get out of line, still standing by his battle mate. And he fully intends to tell that to the Captain, too, except Tinker finds that charging into battle to save a friend is a lot easier than having Captain Constance frowning at him.
It takes another heartbeat, but Tinker salutes, lays a hand on Cameron's shoulder, and marches out.
Once out he lingers in the outer offices to escort Cameron home. If he can.
AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS 41/41 Linden (Jay B) Friday July 25th, 2014 5:31:53 PM
Linden mills around the temple grounds for awhile, never really making an effort to enter it. He eventually leaves just to disappear into a local tavern to lose himself in a couple of tall pints and some pipe weed.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Friday July 25th, 2014 10:19:11 PM
Nikolai felt like he'd gone pale at the announcement of their Fist being renamed, to his name! He gulped and hoped it wasn't audible. As dry as his mouth suddenly became he dared not say anything but saluted as best he could.
When ordered to leave he carefully spun on his heels and left with the others. He too stayed outside waiting for Cameron. He now was the leader, at least in name, and Cameron was just as important as any other Fist member.
Nikolai also felt Cameron might need a few drinks with friends. So he waits.
OOC: DM any word on Nikolai's Legacy Item approval? Since I can only afford the first couple levels, can I go ahead and 'purchase' them? I can role-play the event or you can do it. Either way I'd like Nikolai to have it before the next assignment.
AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS 41/41 Linden (Jay B) Monday July 28th, 2014 4:15:00 PM
Checking in.
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 43/43 (John C) Monday July 28th, 2014 7:16:44 PM
checking in
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14/18 (w/ Mag Amr), hp 23/23 (David Feest posting) . Monday July 28th, 2014 7:27:38 PM
Looking forward to the time off, William heads to his quarters to freshen up and then begin work on his magical experiments.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Monday July 28th, 2014 7:28:10 PM
Monday post. Is today a holiday or something? Very quiet on the boards.
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 34/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+9=14 ; Monday July 28th, 2014 7:35:24 PM
Tinker lingers around the outer office. Looking around and noting where the assistants and secretaries are, he sidles over to the wall near Captain Constance's door and tries to listen in.
Perception: 14
AC 19,T 15,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 42/42 Cameron (David Feest) Monday July 28th, 2014 7:35:51 PM
Cameron thinks about all he has learned in the past week as he waits for the Knight Commander to continue on. About the workings of an army, and about the fragile thing called morale.. An army is only as strong as it's weakest member. If one member chooses to disobey an order or simply disregards a standard practice, the whole force can be lost. He may not think his help would have mattered at Hornfowl, but he cannot help but feel that he may have been able to stop one of the killing blows from landing somehow. He hopes he will never need to make such a difficult decision again. Morale is a fragile, yet terrible emotion. Without the hope he had given the performers he is sure they wouldn't have been able to rally and fight off the gnolls. With his guidance and good decisions though, Krog was able to outlast their attacks and save the whole caravan.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Monday July 28th, 2014 9:39:57 PM
Nikolai as a little time to let the idea of being the Fist leader sink in. He tries not to let the pride he feels show, for it is not pride in himself, but in all his father's hard work of bringing him up from a clumsy care-free boy to a well disciplined soldier. Not that he doesn't know how to have fun, but he'll need to be extra conscious of his words and actions now.
Thing is, he knows full well he'll be very limited when combat starts. He knows his team well and they all have a mind of their own. He'll give suggestions, but then trust on each one's own wisdom, something they just got a bucket load off.
He'll have to wright his father, of course, but he may want to wait until after his first mission as leader. Boy will his dad be surprised!
DM Ken E. Tuesday July 29th, 2014 1:33:31 PM
While the other agents wait outside, Palance is fairly brief with Cameron.
"Steelshaper, did you know that we originally intended for this to happen? Double Fist becoming Agents? We realized it somewhere around the time you had your bust-up against those Paladin boys in Cheerful Stay. You prevailed over a solid unit of higher skill and strength due to your ability to maximize your effectiveness as a group."
She pauses for a moment then continues.
"This mission, while mostly about finding a Thumb, was more to confirm our choice in you than a true competition. You were eager, followed orders, and knew your job. I can't begin to tell you how dissapointed Sgt. Trimmak was with your decision. He insisted it be your decision in the first place... gave you the rope to hang yourself with, so to speak. If you were to become a leader of Agents, we had to see how you acted outside of the direct leadership bubble."
She crosses to a wall, filled with various decorations and medals. She touches one thoughtfully.
"Speak of this incident to no one. You are too valuable to hang right now Steelshaper. Only Carrens decision to remove you from the Squad has kept you alive. I'm not above gifting a second chance to people who I think can repay it. But know this, if you ever leave your Fist to hang again...causing them death and loss because of it...I'll drop the axe on your neck myself. I can't have you gambling our whole Fist of Agents every time we send you into the field."
She waves an arm his direction.
"Dismissed".
Back in the base, life slows down a little. Prudence is happy to some time off, and Nikolai is proud, Rightfully So!, of his newest accomplishment. Others wait like siblings to hear what punishment has been pushed on their little brother.
The Quartermaster is open, as well as the Libraries and training grounds. For the first time in awhile, you are free to do whatever the heck you want!
AC 19,T 15,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 42/42 Cameron (David Feest) Tuesday July 29th, 2014 3:03:24 PM
Cameron still says nothing as Knight Captain Palance explains things to him. What kind of gambler would he be if he let his face slip when secrets were revealed to him? Most of it was hardly a surprise. Cameron would have had to be blind and a fool to have not seen the disappointment in Sergeant Trimmack's face and voice when he returned. He resolves to do some research before they reenter the field though. This new title was a mystery to him. He liked mysteries, but feared them all the same. They were fun to unravel, unless they could get you killed. As he exits the Knight Captain's office he sees the crowd waiting for him. Smiling he approaches his comrades. " Well we have a new thumb to celebrate, lets hit the Last Assignment and do that properly, shall we? But first we need baths, and some fresh uniforms. Let's head back to the barracks and see if Prudence, Linden and William want to join us eh?" On the way to the barracks Cameron keeps his eyes open for Sergeant Helmbane. He needs to talk to that man dwarf to dwarf. Once in the barracks he lets the others know that the Knight Captain wishes to have the incident kept quiet and it should not be spoken of. Though she mentioned no official punishment, Cameron would once again need to prove himself to his comrades.
AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS 41/41 Linden (Jay B) Tuesday July 29th, 2014 4:31:24 PM
If you look for him, Linden is drowning himself in ale and pipeweed, somewhere it's allowed. His isn't a celebration however.
"Huh. SNik ish Thumb? Okay." Is all he says, is able to say.
OOC: Camping Wednesday and Thursday folks, so I'll be unable to post.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Tuesday July 29th, 2014 5:27:59 PM
Pru wastes no time when she gets back to the barracks, but grabs fresh clothing and heads for the baths.
Because she and her Fist-mates are at liberty, she emerges from the bathhouse in a dress, not her uniform, enjoying the feeling of being "decently attired" for a change.
She bundles up her dirty uniforms and takes them to the laundry. She could, of course, remove the dirt and grime with a Prestidigitation spell, but clothes never feel really clean to her unless they've been really washed.
Those chores out of the way, she reminds herself that she really ought to write to Sergeant Hammerheart, back at Akli Post, and tell him how she's been doing. She doesn't really feel like it, though. Her group had botched their first assignment, and nearly botched their second, leaving one of her Fist-mates dead, one deserted, and one in disgrace. Not the kind of thing she's really eager to share.
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 43/43 (John C) Tuesday July 29th, 2014 5:45:49 PM
Carver heads back with the others to the barracks and can't wait to wash up, he gets out of his armor and under garments and hits the baths. When he feels clean he gets out and puts on a clean uniform shirt, since he really doesn't own any other clothing and sets about cleaning the leather work. Even off duty, he carries most of his gear, not wearing his armor or carrying his lance though. When they get to the Last Assignment he'll stick to wine, it's what he's used to.....
(selling his non magical scimitar and buying a longsword)
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 34/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday July 29th, 2014 6:32:59 PM
Tinker is relieved that Cameron is cheerful enough, and that Knight Commander Constance wants to keep the story secret. "Right you are, Cameron, time for cleaning and celebrating Nikki's promotion to Thumb!"
With the others he bustles to the barracks and quickly strips, keeping just enough modesty for Prudence's sensibilities. A quick sluice and a long soak turns Tinker liveable. Trotting back to the barracks, he just manages to catch up with Prudence to take the dirty clothing to the quartermaster laundry. And the rest of the afternoon is spent cleaning and repairing every piece of his equipment and ensuring that it is ready to be counted on when needed. And then there is the evening...
The Last Assignment is familiar, and they are all Lance Corporals and veterans. Tinker quickly spots poor Linden drowning his sorrows, and realizes that it would be difficult for the centaur to come to their table, so he brings his food and tankard to Linden's table. Not sure what to say, he settles for a gruff "Sure are glad you are with us, Linden", and being a solid presence.
The next day is to troop with the group to the Quartermaster to collect their pay, hoping for more bonuses to adjust his gear...
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14/18 (w/ Mag Amr), hp 23/23 (David Feest posting) Tuesday July 29th, 2014 6:56:29 PM
William wants to get to his crafting, but the chance to toast his new commander is a fitting reason to put it off, for a little while at least. He joins his comrades at the Last Assignment.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Tuesday July 29th, 2014 9:39:02 PM
Nikolai is pleased that Cameron is back in full force with their Fist. "Welcome back to your Fist, mate." Seeing as getting cleaned up is what is on most the their minds, Nikolai heads on back to the barracks for his spare clothes and then to the baths.
Finally clean, really clean, he dons his fresh clothes, a plain tunic and trousers, and heads to the Last Assignment for some R&R. Tomorrow he'll have to start his duties as the Fist Thumb, but today, it is time to celebrate being back!
DM Ken E. Wednesday July 30th, 2014 6:40:31 PM
The Last Assignment is buzzing with activity. While the details of your promotion to Agents haven't been advertised (but its not a secret), many have heard of the stiff battle you fought. A few give you celebratory pats on the back, and a few others look at you jealously, wishing the glory had been theirs!
A few people of note emerge in the crowd, Qualtmie is there, wearing a short dress that makes her look childish to the average human. Trimmack as well, though not in a dress, but in his civilian attire. They aretalking with a few Minotaur that have grouped together.
A couple of soldiers have started some sort of drinking game, and seem to be seeking out new players.
(Please contain posts to the current evening. Qualtmie will open in the morning. =D)
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 34/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday July 30th, 2014 7:27:11 PM Tinker enjoys the evening but doesn't overdo it... he remembers the midnight alert during graduation exercises and wants to always be ready! Not really social or diplomatic, he keeps his hand full and listens and watches the others without really participating. ........................
Linden slumps a little in his corner, sliding back onto his haunches. "Heersh to NIk* (hic!) Nikolai. A thumb to shtick in the eye of an* (hic!) any gnoll!"
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14/18 (w/ Mag Amr), hp 23/23 (David Feest posting) Wednesday July 30th, 2014 7:53:20 PM
William has a few celebratory drinks to break in his new thumb but then retires to work on his magical research.
AC 19,T 15,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 42/42 Cameron (David Feest) Wednesday July 30th, 2014 8:05:35 PM
Cameron was prepared to drink until the wee hours celebrating living through the assignment and Nikolai's promotion until he spies Qualtmie there. Upon seeing her, dressed in her civilian attire rather than the uniform of the Fist, Cameron turns on the charm and tries to remain sober enough to remember the evening. He will pay for her drinks for the evening and try to learn more about the woman that has captured his heart. At the end of the evening he will make sure she gets home safely. Throughout the evening he also keeps an eye out for Sergeant Helmbane.
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 43/43 (John C) Wednesday July 30th, 2014 9:16:21 PM
Carver will propose a toast. "To Our Thumb, may he remain flexible enough to survive the rest of his fist."
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Wednesday July 30th, 2014 10:13:07 PM
[OOC: Hipster Pru was wearing a dress before it went mainstream. :) ]
Pru enjoys her evening at the Last Assignment. She drinks, but not too much, and is smart enough to stay out of drinking contests. She gladly toasts Nikolai with the rest, and spends the rest of her time chatting, laughing, and basically having fun.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Wednesday July 30th, 2014 11:27:32 PM
Nikolai tries to give Linden something to cheer about. "Linden, my friend, the hour is always darkest before dawn. There is a time to mourn, a time to wallow, end then a time to get back on your feet, and we'll be there with you when you decide to do that."
Nikolai returns the toast with one of his own, "To our Fist! May it be known by each one of us, not just by its Thumb! A Hand cannot be all Thumbs, you know, and a Thumb without a Hand is useless."
Nikolai has a few more drinks but keeps in mind his new position and doesn't let himself get drunk.
'Looks like tomorrow I'll be in the Library looking up the duties of a Thumb.' he muses.
After a few rounds of darts, he tips the barkeep, "See yonder morose centaur? See to it he gets to our barracks tonight." and hands him a gold piece. Then he heads to their barracks for a much needed rest.
DM Ken E. Thursday July 31st, 2014 3:24:05 PM
Qualtmie gives a cheerful wave in Cameronsdirection and beckons over towards her group. Ironically, he doesn't have to look long for Sergeant Helmbane, as he hears the mans booming voice behind him. With a sinking feeling in his stomach, he realizes Qualtmie was waving at Helmbane and not him!
Chuckling, the dour sergeant shoves past Cameron and makes his way to Trimmack and the quartermaster.
The barkeep promises to keep an eye on the Centaur.
As Prudence is being served, she is aware of her waitress eyeing her for long periods of time, then shyly ducking away every time Pru notices her staring. At one point the server comes back and pauses, biting her lip, poised on the edge of a question.
William retreats to his study, leaving the group early. As he nears his quarters, he is suprised to find a boy of around 11 years old waiting in front of the door!
Nikolai finds that his Fistmates are happy to celebrate with him, as are a few random revelry seekers in the Last Assignment. As he heads outside to the Library he is forced to cross paths with a Minotaur, obviously drunk.
The bullish wino snorts his direction.
"So yer a Thumb now? You think that makes you tough? Eh! I should have been a Thumb too!"
Shockingly, the Minotaur gives him a hard shove and snorts again, tipping his horns dangerously!
Tinker and Carver watch the numerous situations unfold! Cameron is now stuck between Helmbane and Trimmack, while wanting to talk to his object of desire! A barmaid is acting strangely around Pru. William has left very early and Linden is getting drunker by the minute. Then there's Nikolai, who had the misfortune of stepping outside right after a surly drunk minotaur was forcibly removed from the club!
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 43/43 (John C) Thursday July 31st, 2014 4:57:45 PM
Turning to Tinker Carver speaks just loud enough to be heard.... "Rescue mission? Niko seems in most danger, then Cam and Pru, then we all manage to drag Linden back to the Barracks ? For the most part, they don't look in danger. You get Niko I'll go face down the Taur." Carver then trots over to the door and heads outside, on his way he grabs a Stampede, a drink that usually run over the drinker and leaves him or her floored, hence the name. Once outside he'll go up to the Minotaur, "Hey buddy, I brought you out a drink. I saw how rude they were and figured it was the least i could do. Did I hear you say you were up to becoming a Thumb? I was hoping to become one as well, What's a person got to do to qualify, kiss so behind?" Carver offers him the Stampede and makes friendly like, trying to distract him from Niko, His thumb doesn't need trouble before he's been in charge for even a day.....
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Thursday July 31st, 2014 5:18:49 PM
Pru gives the server an encouraging smile. "Do you need something?" she asks kindly.
But then there's some shoving, and Pru turns to see what's happening. "Oops," she says. "Excuse me a moment. The boys are fighting again." She stands and begins making her way to Nikolai's side.
AC 19,T 15,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 42/42 Cameron (David Feest) d20+10=13 ; d20+12=24 ; d20+10=24 ; Thursday July 31st, 2014 6:27:09 PM
Cameron recently stared down over a dozen slavering creatures that wanted to kill him. That was easy compared to this. He had let Trimmack down and now had to hope that this wouldn't become a scene in front of the woman he so badly wanted to like him. Helmbane was running a gambling ring and had a man that Cameron owed in his debt. Cameron wanted to set that right and hope that the Sergeant would take his money and be happy. He needs to do all this without causing a scene and making an evening with Qualtmie impossible.
" Sergeant's, Miss Qualtmie, Let me buy you all a drink. Both of you Sergeant's trained me and I want to talk to each of you. Sergeant Trimmack, I let you down and I let my comrades down on our last operation. I appreciate that you had so much faith in me and wanted me for thumb. I'm sorry I let you down and I hope I never do again. I hope you can forgive me." Cameron offers his hand to Sergeant Trimmack in an offer of friendship and forgiveness. Diplomacy 13
" Sergeant Helmbane, it has come to my attention that a friend of mine, Mr Turley, owes you a great deal for bailing him out of 'trouble' . I in turn owe him and would like to pay his debt to you and I would also like you to refer hhim to me should he ever be in the same position again. I don't want him to get in more 'trouble' again." Cameron slides a small pouch across the table to Sergeant Helmbane containing the amount Turley had said he owed the Sergeant. Diplomacy 24
" As for you miss Qualtmie, I would be honored if you would join me for dinner?" Diplomacy 24
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14/18 (w/ Mag Amr), hp 23/23 (David Feest posting) Thursday July 31st, 2014 7:00:05 PM
William looks at the boy and then looks around. Turning to the boy he says " Heloo, may I help you somehow? Why are you here?"
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 34/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+10=27 ; d20+12=25 Thursday July 31st, 2014 9:26:27 PM Tinker is enjoying his evening even though he doesn't say much, it is nice to see his mates having fun... until Carver notes that Nikolai is NOT having much fun with a disgruntled minotaur. "Not to argue with you, Carver, but I've seen what happens when we split ranks."
The dwarf leaves Linden propped against a wall and table, and hurries out after Carver, Nikolai, and the minotaur, palming his Sap as he goes. Hardly lithe, the dwarf doesn't do any elvish skipping about, but still manages with a step here and deft lean to flank the minotaur and put the drunkard into what Sergeant Trimmack used to call 'a poor tactical situation'.
.................
Acrobatics - 27 Tinker moves to avoid any AOO and get opposite of Carver with the minotaur in the middle.
Slieght of Hand to palm the Sap without Minotaur seeing - 25
Holding a Sap, Tinker is armed.
//////////////////////////////////////
Linden snores softly in his corner.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) d20+1=6 ; d20=12 ; Thursday July 31st, 2014 10:04:55 PM
Nikolai is caught by surprise by the rudeness of the minotaur but smells the stink of drunkeness and decides a tactic other than a brawl is best. As he begins speaking, he notices a number of his Fist-mates emerge from the tavern and approach.
"Yeah, I'm a Thumb now. But toughness came from yonder obstacle course. I believe you are tough just as you claim I am. If it is your desire to prove yourself, then let's make a race of it. Your sergeants won't make you a Thumb for brawling, but they may make you a Thumb for defeating me in the obstacle course."
By now Carver shows up with a drink in hand and tries a little distraction.
"That obstacle course is a bear, a drink will certainly give you and edge over me."
Diplomacy +1 = 6
Nikolai waits, but prepared, for the the minotaur's response. Does he take up the challenge of the obstacle course? He hopes to wear the minotaur out and just leave him out there but the minotaur may be too drunk to understand the challenge. Either way, he tries not to let the minotaur realize the monk is in Total Defense. Bluff (hide Total Defense) = 12 AC this round = 20
DM Ken E. Friday August 1st, 2014 4:14:44 PM
As more of Nikolais Fistmates shuffle out of the bar, the Minotaur shifts his dull gaze to each fighter outside. Drunk he may be, but he is still a trained warrior and knows how to calculate odds. Snorting again, he turns to leave, barreling through any who don't move out of his way.
When she comes back inside, the girl continues to watch Pru closely.
Is.. is it true you burned a dozen Gnolls to ashes and then cooked and ate the heart of a Dire Hyena? That's what all the girls here in the pub are sayin'. It's been awhile since there's been a girl who goes out and dishes it like the boys. I mean... there's the Captain Palance, but shes not fer fightin' anymore."
The girl smiles shyly, then suddenly panics.
"Oh no! I'm bothering you again! My names Kaylee. Let me know if you need anything!"
She flitters away, passing by a angry looking Helmbane.
"I "loaned" him money. If you want to make his payment for him, be my guest, if you've got 300 gold just burnin' a hole in yer pockets."
Qualtmie gets a funny look on her face.
"Oh. I'm sorry Cameron. Sgt. Helmbane here is already taking me to dinner here shortly."
Helmbane grins.
"You can have the money ready for me tomorrow lad. Thanks again!"
In front of the barracks, William had come face to face with a small child.
"Hullo Sir, be you William the Courageous? I was sent by my mum to apprentice under you. I'm from Hornfowl see. Would you take me in please? I had to sign on with the Fist just to get this far, as a stable boy, but me bosses said I could see you if you would have me."
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 14/18 (w/ Mag Amr), hp 23/23 (David Feest posting) Friday August 1st, 2014 4:35:03 PM
William has no idea what the Fist's policy on apprentices is. It never came up in his studies and he never looked because he had no idea it would ever come up. Clearly he can't have a young boy following him wherever he went on assignment. Heavens knew they barley survived most of their fights themselves. Yet here was this boy standing here and already signed up into the Fist! Smoothly, he hopes since smooth wasn't exactly his game, he tells the boy," Why don't you come in and tell me this story in full and then tell me what you know about being a wizard. It is hard work you know, much harder than learning to fight like those knuckle draggers out in the training yard have it. Not only do you have to be able to fight like them, you must master the arcane arts and learn the deft and complicated moves involved in casting a spell...." William rattles on as he lets the lad into his quarters and listen to his whole story and assesses his potential.
OOC Good luck with this one Ken. I bought you some time to get back by asking to hear how this all came about. From here on hes all yours.
AC 19,T 15,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 42/42 Cameron (David Feest) d20+5=16 ; Friday August 1st, 2014 4:53:12 PM
Cameron barely hears the Sergeant as Qualtmie turns him down. He manages a quicky affirmation to meet Helmbane tomorrow and excuses himself from the table. His plans for the night in ruins, he can think of nothing better to do than join that drinking game that needed players. He has little trouble finding them since they are none too quiet about their search. He puts what he knows to good use and tries to win some pocket money to replace the debt of Turley's he will pay tomorrow. Profession Gambler 16
If you need to make more checks his profession gambler is at +5, his Fortitude save is at +5 and straight constitution save is at +2
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 34/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday August 1st, 2014 5:26:48 PM
Another casual lean and Tinker lets the minotaur by, the Sap unobtrusively slipping back to its thong. "Like my foster-brothers, eh? We'd squabble like furies among ourselves, but it is all for one if an outsider tried to take one of us." The dwarf gives a thumbs up to Carver and Nikolai before turning back into the Last Assignment and resuming his post to ensure no one bothers Linden.
.......................
Linden snores on, gives a snort, and resumes snoring.
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 43/43 (John C) Friday August 1st, 2014 5:59:06 PM
Carver, walks back into the Last Assignment and looks around.... He's looking to see if one of the Minotaurs from the rival fist that had been their competition for honors is in the place. If he finds one, he offers him the Stampede, if not, he'll just set it on the bar and go back to his wine..... something he can enjoy and still be ready in a moments notice for duty..... He'll keep watch over any members in the pub and be sure to keep everyone mostly out of trouble...... If anyone asks about Linden, he'll say"He has The Dread Pirate Robert's disease"...... if they don't get it, he'll say, He's been mostly dead all day." and leave it at that....
AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS 41/41 Linden (Jay B) Friday August 1st, 2014 9:06:04 PM
Linden wakes up to a horrible hangover and glassy eyes.
"I'm going shopping." And he slips out.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Friday August 1st, 2014 10:17:59 PM
Nikolai watches the minotaur walk away from the challenge and shakes his head. "It'll be a sorry Fist with that one a Thumb," he mumbles under his breath.
"Thank's, friends. I'd like to say I could have handled the drunkard on my own, but I'd prefer to avoid a brawl if possible. I want to enjoy my leave outside the infirmary. Your timely appearance did the trick. HA!"
Nikolai resumes his trip to the barracks. It is late considering their long day behind them. He wanted to be well rested for the next day.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Friday August 1st, 2014 10:27:19 PM
"It's nice to meet you, Kaylee," Pru says. "I'm Pru."
She listens to the barmaid's somewhat garbled account of the recent fight. "Well, no," she says. "Not really. That is, my Fist and I fought some gnolls, working as a team. I'm a sorcerer, you see, and fire is my main weapon. So I did burn some of our opponents, but not very many. And I certainly didn't eat anybody's heart, because eww!"
"Anyway," she continues, "there are plenty of girls in the Mailed Fist. Not as many as there are men, of course, but there are certainly more than just me and Captain Palance! There's Tay, for one--Ta'Nalia, a half-elf girl that graduated at the same time as me. Ruby and Shaila; they were also in our class. And back at Akli post, there were Kryry and Lidina. And Captain Akabi, of course. It's harder for girls, I think, because of all the training and stuff, but it's not impossible."
WIlliam waits for the boy to tell him his story, name, etc. and tries desperately to think of some non-dangerous way this child could apprentice while not getting himself killed...
(Craft check for my item that I was building during this time. Time goes back a while since it's from our last trip to the Catacombs... = 21. OK Plus vial to craft. ignore 3rd roll (accident) this one didn't go so well so assume wasted.)
AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS 41/41 Linden (Jay B) Saturday August 2nd, 2014 6:31:17 PM
Ooc: yes. Thanks for covering me too.
The centaur does not return quickly.
AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS 41/41 Linden (Jay B) Sunday August 3rd, 2014 11:44:44 PM
OOC: Checking in
DM Ken E. Monday August 4th, 2014 11:08:01 AM
The evening wears down to an eventual halt.
- Kaylee continues to dote over Prudence until she leaves. All the suspect signs on Hero Worship are there. Who knows how Pru feels about that?
- At some point, it will fall on Carver and Tinker to get Linden back to the barracks.
- Eventually, Helmbane and Qualtmie leave together.
- The boy at the door explains himself to William once inside. He is a young man named Rad, and his father died in the action at Hornfowl. His father had some trace of magical talent, and had been teaching his son cantrips before he died. With no formal education or father to teach him a trade, his mother had thought it best to send him to come study under the only Wizard she had ever seen: William the Courageous. After receiving Williams answer, the boy will depart.
The next morning some of you wake up fresh, others do not. You have to report for assignment in 2 days, when your 96 hours of liberty expire. A package arrives early in the morning, addressed to Nikolai. At first glance, it appears to be a fine wooden chest carved from a deep red cherry wood.
There is also a letter delivered to your barracks, informing you that payment is available with the Quartermaster for your latest action. In contrast to her usual cheerful demeanor, Qualtmie is quiet today. It seems even a new hairstyle, worn down and covering part of her face, isn't enough reason to be in a good mood.
Perception: DC 15
Highlight to display spoiler: {It appears that she might be trying to hide a purple bruise on her left cheek!}
She quietly hands anyone who comes in a letter of credit worth 750 gp, which can either be cashed in immediately or saved if desired.
( Please use today to make any Catacombs purchases and wrap up your gear. You will have another brief shopping period after the next scene starts, however. )
AC 19,T 15,FF 16 (+1 to all acs vs larger creatures), (CMB 3 CMD 17) HP 42/42 Cameron (David Feest) d20+10=30 ; d20+10=16 ; d20+5=7 ; Monday August 4th, 2014 4:32:19 PM
Cameron crawls out of bed around noon. He is pretty sure he won the drinking contest, though he can't remember. It was down to him, and a dwarf that he swears had a hollow leg. He freshens up in the bath house and goes to see Qualtmie,bearing the beverage she normally loves when he visits. He wonders how he could have been outdone last night by Helmbane, a dwarf with all the charm of a rattlesnake and a man that is too free with his hands. Investments like Turley's needed to be cultivated, not abused. At the Quartermaser's office there is a line, the head of which has a rather loud Corporal at it with a list he insists need to be filled NOW. This gives Cameron some time to look at Qualtmie and realize she is not at her best. Perception 30 He sees the bruise and has a fair idea where it came from. With a quick gesture and a whispered word he casts Message on Qualtmie and whispers." I know enough of the store to help this Corporal with the attitude. Would that help out?" Assuming she says yes he gets the Corporal what he needs and waits for Qualtmie to finish with the other customers. He then gives her the beverage he brought and quietly, through the message spell asks her what happened to her cheek. was it Helmbane? Diplomacy 16 Sense Motive 7 He has seen the Sergeant's work before and feels that this time the Sergeant has gone too far. He collects his pay chit and goes out, looking for Nikolai, his thumb. He explains the Turley situation and what happened with Qualtmie and asks what Nikolai can do about it. He follows the chain of command but WILL see something done.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) d20=18 ; Monday August 4th, 2014 5:09:05 PM
Pru is a little bewildered by Kaylee's regard. Pru doesn't regard herself as anything special--apart from her sorcery, which just sort of happened. She tries to explain that to Kaylee, and tries to explain that she, too, could join the Fist if she's willing to put in the work, but that doesn't seem to be what Kaylee is after.
Pru is still puzzling over it all as she makes her way back to the barracks. Odd, to have some girl mooning after her, just as if she were a boy or something, and...oh.
She stops in her tracks, stunned by the sudden thought. She had heard it said, once or twice, that there were some girls who liked other girls instead of boys. She wasn't sure she believed it. She still wasn't sure she believed it, even now. Was that what Kaylee was after? And if so, how in the Wold was Pru supposed to say "no" to a question that hadn't really been asked? Or had it?
Her mind whirling, Pru continues back to the barracks, where she says an extra round of prayers to all the gods, but especially Flower. Then she falls into a troubled sleep.
The next day, she collects her voucher from Qualtmie. She does happen to notice the bruise [Perception 18], but misses the significance. "Gracious, Qualtmie! Did you fall? You know, one of the priests should be able to just magick that bruise right off. It can't be comfortable going about with that on your face!"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 20/22(Grapple) Monday August 4th, 2014 9:10:47 PM
Nikolai wakes up early and starts planning his day. He plans to spend much of it in the library. There was a lot of things he needed to look up. Like how to be a good Thumb. Was his father ever a Thumb? His father had made it to sergeant before he left the fist and joined in that now-famous caravan to the wild unknown and uncharted lands known at that time as the Uncharted Lands (because they were uncharted). That thriving mining town of Bryn Baraz owes much of its existence to the brave men and women that picked up their roots and traveled into the unknown, his father being a member of a group of guards that made sure the caravan arrived safely, then they protected the small mining settlement from the hazards of the wild wild west.
Being a Thumb seemed small in comparison, but he smiled. It was a start.
He's up and ready for breakfast in mere minutes. Ah, it was good to have a real breakfast for a change. He was about to wash up when he spots the letter for their pay and the redwood chest. Puzzled, he looks the chest over, looking for who sent it. 'Surely I don't have a secret admirer and the Fist doesn't hand out gifts to mere Thumbs. It's not an actual promotion. I wonder...'
Later...
Nikolai takes a break from reading up on famous Thumbs of the past and heads to the Quartermaster's to collect his pay. Perc +11 = 18 OOC: I had to refresh and enter my login password and lost the die roll post but fortunately managed to save the text. That's why you don't see the 18 in the Die Roll box.
He notices the bruise. "Qualtmie, are the boxes giving you trouble? Just point the culprit out to me, I'll chop it into match sticks" he quips.
AC15 T13, F12, CMD 18 (22 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 34/34 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday August 4th, 2014 9:12:26 PM
Tinker helps Carver to drag a drunken centaur back to the barracks; hard work, but Linden is a mate, and that's all there is to it!
In the morning, he pops up and does his calisthenics and quick wash, hearty breakfast, and tries to be quiet for his companions who had too much.
The Quartermaster is important, and Tinker immediately cashes in in order to get to the Catacombs.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 20 with Mage Armor and PfE; hp 23/23 Monday August 4th, 2014 9:12:56 PM
William smiles at the youth and wistfully remembers when he was that age and was mentored by an experienced mage. "Rad, it's nice to meet you son and I'm glad to hear of your interest in the arcane arts. Here's my suggestion. If you agree to become my apprentice, I'll pay for you to go to classes at the local mage's guild that's outside the gates of this town. I'm a member there and if you're going to be a good wizard, I'd like you to learn the basics of magic. The fact that you've done magic before is great and they can build on that. Once you've done your studies, you start training in more advanced arts with me? What do you think?"
He takes the credit and considers what to buy at the Catacombs... For now he'll save the funds for later use...
AC 19 w/shield, TAC 11, FFAC 15, (CMD 16, CMB 4), HPS 41/41 Linden (Jay B) Monday August 4th, 2014 9:42:24 PM
When found, Linden is wearing plain grey robes and a burlap bag over his face. Eye holes cut.
(OOC: Is the 750gp a writ for future or only for this mission?)
DM OOC: It's regular pay, just think of the chit like a gem, it's less weight than 750 gold and you can use it now or save for later.
Carver AC 19, AC 21 with shield, CMB 8, CMD 18, HP 43/43 (John C) d20+3=19 ; Monday August 4th, 2014 9:53:06 PM
Carver cashes in his credit and stashes the gold with the rest of his money, it's not nearly enough for either the of the sets of shoes he wants, well actually needs to further his combat ability. He heads to the quartermasters to exchange the sabre for a longsword.... He sees the bruise, but it's honestly none of his business and lets it pass, unless others of the fist bring it up and demand some focus on it....
(weapons exchanged and cost deducted (sabre sold back at 1/2 cost))
DM Ken E. d20+2=19 Tuesday August 5th, 2014 10:58:47 AM DM OOC: Hey all! I'll be turning you over to Warren G. after this! Expect your first post in the new module today! I'm just wrapping up some RP stuff. So while this is a DM post it isnt THE DM Post!
Cameron sees fit to question Qualtmie on the bruise, and her response is immediate and curious.
"Oh heavens no! Um.. we had a good time Cameron, Helmbane and I! Please don't mention this to anyone else and drop it please! It's like Prudence said, I probably just bumped my cheek on a box. Bye Cameron!"
Nikolai's box is opened, and contains a cloth belt. The fabric tingles in his hands, humming with untapped power. There is a note inside.
"Nikolai, you bring yourself honor. Remember that it is not the tool that makes the artisan, but rather the master who brings out most from his tools. Continue to perfect your art."
His reading on famous Thumbs is slightly disappointing. Most famous solider of the Mailed Fist were Thumbs at one point or another in their career. He does find that the general principle that guides the most successful to have been summarized in a line in a junior officers book, "Throughout our brief history, the most successful Fists are those who are not burdened by constant re-assignment to other forces. They are held together by a strong, charismatic, and fair Thumb who helps his Fist succeed and attributes his success to his Fist. In this, a self sustaining camaraderie is created, and the whole Fist benefits."
END OF MODULE 4
XP Award for RP, a successful trip home, and PC resurrections: 500 xp each GP Awards: 750gp (Already paid out in post, but listed again here for record keeping.)
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