DM Hugh (on loan from Humble's) Thursday April 2nd, 2015 2:41:43 AM
The party spends the night in the Marsh House where everyone settles in to their new lodgings. Most of the group ends up sleeping in one of the many bedrooms. Var bunks down on a hammock on the porch while Ashley spent an uncomfortable night after an evening of revelry sleeping in a chair in the main room.
The next day around mid morning, there is a knock on the door. A runner had been dispatched from the Crescent Moons Trading Company. He bears a note asking you to head down to the main office at your earliest convenience so you set out as a group to the Crescent Moons Trading Company office.
Upon arriving at the office Madri shows you in to the now familiar meeting room. "I'm glad that you and Mr, Cother came to an agreement. Twas a shame to let the Marsh House sit idle. Mr Boggs will be out shortly. In the meantime please help yourselves to some refreshment." she says before leaving the group.
The table in the meeting room has an assortment of pastries on it. There is also a pot of tea, a carafe of coffee and a pitcher of water and some mugs, cups and plates. A few minutes after everyone has a chance to grab something, Boggs comes in from the back entrance.
"Welcome everyone. I have invited you all here because I have your second assignment. There are rumors circulating in the City Below of some sort of ghost or haunting in the Trade Quarter. As some of you may know, the City Below is generally managed by The Knives however the merchants being affected by this purported paranormal activity are loathe to go them as The Knives normal solution in this sort of situation involves asking those affected for more protection money in the name of hazard pay and then telling them to shut up. They have also not asked the company to look into this. Given your recent success with the undead problem plaguing Grubbertown, upon hearing these rumors I thought your group would be the perfect one to send down to the City Below and investigate. Now then, before you set out, do you have any questions?" Boggs asks the group.
Broom (HP 20/20, AC17/T17/FF14) Thursday April 2nd, 2015 11:37:18 AM
Broom grimaces as he hears the mention of haunting. He is starting to hate this creepy wormy things - he is never gonna get the goo out from his broom now.
Var HP:21/21 AC: 16(T:13/FF:13) CMD:18 Thursday April 2nd, 2015 2:55:30 PM
From around a mouthful of pastry Var says "More undead?" swallowing some coffee to wash down his breakfast Var continues, "Could this be related to the zombies? A necromancer causing trouble for the city?"
Avin Fellows HP:17/17 AC:13 Flat:10 Touch:13 d20+9=14 ; Thursday April 2nd, 2015 8:22:45 PM
Avin rubbed at the grit in his eyes from spending too much time asleep as he focuses on Boggs.
More undead? his thoughts echoed Var's words silently.
Pursing his lips silently, he attempts to sort out if a necromancer that created wights might be strong enough to arouse the very spirits of the dead but his mind seems to be sluggish and not quite caught up with the idea of being awake [spellcraft 14]. Nevertheless he is struck by another thought.
"What signs? How do they know its a ghost? What signs of spirits have there been? Might be a ruse. A hoax. A cover-up."
In the wizard's experience ghosts, although certainly possible, were rarely the actual reason for the little things people attributed to them and this was Dirt City. In a city of crime a little misdirection could go a long way. Then again they had just killed a number of the walking dead. Avin resolves to keep an open mind on this case both ways.
Ashley Steward[AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22] Thursday April 2nd, 2015 9:37:02 PM
Ashley sat at the table, nibbling absently at a pastry and drinking down water as he listened. Once the task was given, he looked to the others, echoing very similar thoughts.
"No such thing as coincidences, in my opinion."
Talanthrel (Paul) [HP 21/21; AC 17; Touch 14; Flat 13; Cmd17] Thursday April 2nd, 2015 10:10:39 PM
Talanthrel starts paying a little more attention to what is being said at the mention of a job "A Haunting?" he asks "Do we know if it is localized to one area?"
Toston Lotor[HP: 14/14; AC 18; Touch 14; FF 14; CMD 16] d20+6=25 ; d20+5=7 ; Thursday April 2nd, 2015 10:38:08 PM
Toston eats heartily from the bounty provided for them, listening aptly when Boggs is explaining their latest endeavor to them. The talk of ghosts sets the gnome's mind ablaze, churning and thinking of anything that he can recall or has learned about ghosts, both from a religious and sorcerous perspective.
"Once we figure out what we know about the task, we should move forward as quickly as possible!"
[Knowledge Arcana: 25] [Knowledge Religion: 7]
DM Hugh (on loan from Humble's) - Who you gonna call? Friday April 3rd, 2015 1:15:28 AM
Aside from the ever quiet Broom who reflects on what this ghost hunt will do to his broom, the rest of the party has questions and comments.
Wilford asks about a potential run-in with the Knives.
"It's a possibility, but unlikely. Follow the rules, peace bond your weapons at a checkpoint and use your collective heads and you shouldn't have a problem with the Knives. Remember violence is disallowed in the city below, so you should not have to worry about open armed conflict with the Knives." Boggs answers the man.
Var asks about the alleged hauntings being related to the zombie activity and the possibility that both are the work of a single necromancer intent on causing trouble for the city.
"If the hauntings are real, then it could be that the same person who created the wights, ghouls, zombies and skeletons is behind this or it could be a coincidence. At this point all we have is rumor and conjecture." Boggs tells the half-orc,
Avin asks about what has been reported and raises the possibility of a hoax.
Boggs says to the wizard, "You know how rumors are, everyone likes a good story and things get exaggerated or obscured in the retelling. The tales I heard range from strange smells and other phenomenons to the rising of a ghost army hell bent on taking back the city below. Its hard to separate fact from fiction. What we need is boots on the ground gathering intel. That is where you come in. Now there could be logical non spirit related explanation for the rumors, so if you find one and can debunk the haunting to put the merchant's minds at ease, great. However, it is also possible that the city below is haunted."
To that Ashley says "No such thing as coincidences, in my opinion."
Talanthrel asks if the hauntings are localized to one area.
"Good question," Boggs says as he pulls a scroll from his pocket, unrolls it a little and proceeds to scan the document reading it under his breath before answering the half-elf, "Yes. The spirit activity seems to be localized to a section of the city below in the Trade Quarter known as Clover Way. That seems to be the one thing these stories seem to agree upon."
Toston reflects on matters of the sacred and arcane and voices the opinion that the group should head out as soon as possible.
Toston : Highlight to display spoiler: {Toston knows that if a spirit is powerful enough it can manifest in such a way as to mimic the effects of spells.}
Boggs says to the group, "The thought that popped into my mind when I first heard these rumors was Who you gonna call, Boggs? The answer to that is you, my trusted undead busters. So go down to the city below, learn the truth of these rumors and report back. I will be at my booth in the scrum this afternoon again, should you need me." With that final thought the man with the common place face departs through the rear exit.
It is still mid morning, do you proceed to Clover Way in the city below directly or does anyone have anything else they need to attend to first?
Var HP:21/21 AC: 16(T:13/FF:13) CMD:18 Friday April 3rd, 2015 6:40:29 AM
"Another Day, another undead." Var says and finishes his coffee in one large gulp standing and shouldering his equipment, he grabs another pastry and says to the group, "I don't much like this talk of 'peacebonding' weapons - but I suppose we'll have to play by the rules in the City Below. I'm ready if you all are."
Broom (HP 20/20, AC17/T17/FF14) Friday April 3rd, 2015 1:19:35 PM
"Broom is alright. Use often to sweep the floor.", Broom muses softly.
"Sweep floor not hit zombie.", he added as an afterthought.
Wilford Grimly (HP:18/18; AC: 14; Touch: 12; Flat: 12; CMD: 14) d20+5=14 ; Friday April 3rd, 2015 2:35:31 PM
"What does he mean by calling? Does he expect us to yell at him over the miles?" Wil says as he pours himself a cup of coffee. He tips the cup to his lips but hears a scratching within his head. It continues as he places the cup down. "Oh and what's a buster?" He adds loudly as the scratching get louder. "Does anyone hear that scratching noise. I can't think?" He holds his ears but it does nothing to help. He disappears to the back of the room and mumbles in the corner. "Alright, what's going on here?" He says without moving is mouth. "Does this have anything to do with the new undead mission?" (OOC: Perception: 14 - to try to figure out what the scratching is. It could just be an undead spirit trying to get Wil's attention. If so then I can run with that while we do this mission. )
Wilford Grimly (HP:18/18; AC: 14; Touch: 12; Flat: 12; CMD: 14) Friday April 3rd, 2015 2:46:21 PM
"Anyone up for going back to the store? I would like to find a Silver dagger at Captain Dak's. A collection of many daggers will be useful sometime," Wil adds loudly and steps from the room.
Avin Fellows HP:17/17 AC:13 Flat:10 Touch:13 d20+8=22 ; Friday April 3rd, 2015 6:42:43 PM
Avin lifts his spellbook and taps the spine lightly. If Wilford intended to purchase new daggers he could spend the time scribing a new page from that scroll of Mount the group had found. Otherwise he would be as ready as ever. He frowns thinking ghosts normally had more to do with the faiths (Knowledge Religion check 22). He feels certain he knew something he is not remembering. Avin glances at Toston, wondering if the gnome might know more.
Toston Lotor[HP: 14/14; AC 18; Touch 14; FF 14; CMD 16] Friday April 3rd, 2015 9:55:04 PM
Toston adds to the conversation, almost throwing a pastry down his throat before starting to speak.
"If this is a ghost, then they can mimic the effects of spells and enchantments. It's possible that this a true haunting, however, it's also possible that there's a hedge wizard or some sort of apprentice playing a gag on the City Below. Or even worse, some sort of racket to get protection money into certain pockets. Regardless, we must investigate. Make haste!"
Ashley Steward[AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22] Friday April 3rd, 2015 10:09:09 PM
Ashley grunts at Wilford's question about calling.
"Fancy folk use the term calling on for taking a woman out to court. You're not my type, Boggs."
He smirks at the man who was, for now, paying them a living, standing up and cracking his back with a loud series of pops. Assessing the others now that his mental faculties were returning to him, he nods at the general ideas.
"Aye, preparations. Once everyone is ready, we should meet at the Merchant's Quarter below. Let's say an hour. We don't want to head straight to the Trade Quarter to meet. We need to be looking for signs of tampering or anything unusual on our walk to the Trade Quarter. All in agreement?"
Talanthrel (Paul) [HP 21/21; AC 17; Touch 14; Flat 13; Cmd17] Friday April 3rd, 2015 10:25:31 PM
Talanthrel nods in agreement "That sound like a plan. See you all in an hour." Giving a wave to everyone he snags a last pastry as he heads out the door.
Avin Fellows HP:17/17 AC:13 Flat:10 Touch:13 d20+9=17 ; Saturday April 4th, 2015 12:41:24 AM
Avin snorts amusement at Ashley's 'calling' comment which comes out sounding as if he were blowing debris from his nose instead. At mention of meeting in the merchant quarter his snorting ceases.
"Merchant quarter, just outside? Yes?" the wizard asks to confirm.
Nodding once more, the wizard steps out to purchase fresh ink to begin scribing (spellcraft 17 vs. DC 16 to scribe Mount). Grumbling at the cost of ink, he exits the building to return.
DM Hugh (on loan from Humble's) - Aye, preparations Sunday April 5th, 2015 9:35:02 PM
After some discussion you decide to take some time to do some incidental preparations before heading down to investigate.
Var voices his discomfort with peace bonding his weapons.
Broom being talkative for once seems to suggest that his broom is not a weapon but rather a floor cleaning device.
Wil seems confused about what Boggs had to say and acts like he is hearing some scratching noise that no one else does. He then says he would like to make a side trip to Captain Dak's. The trip to Captain Dak's is uneventful. "He" has the dagger still and parts with it for 22 gold as quoted previously. (OOC: subtract 22 gold and give yourself a silver dagger. Please note that since a dagger is not a bludgeoning weapon it has a -1 penalty to damage rolls for being made out of silver which is softer than other metals)
Toston tells everyone that ghosts can mimic the effects of spells, but that if there is some spell slinging going on it could just be an overactive hedge wizard. He also presses for haste.
Ashley offers an explanation to Wil on what Boggs might have meant and then sets the rendezvous for one hour at the checkpoint leading to the Trade Quarter.
Talanthrel agrees.
Avin ponders his knowledge of religion. He remembers something else about hauntings.
Avin Highlight to display spoiler: {If a haunt is legitimate there is usually something keeping the spirit bound to that particular place. If you can figure out what it is you may be able to get the ghost to move on. This is usually the role that Grims play. }
He then takes the hour to scribe mount into his spell book grumbling about the price of ink.
After preparations are made the group meets in one hour at the check point leading down to the Trade Quarter in the city below. There are 3 lines headed to 3 wooden boxy looking archways that have torches set in the sides. There are a few guards a little ways in front of the archways handing out red string and you notice that people are tying the string to their weapons and in some cases even their wrists before passing through the archway. After a person passes through the archway the flame either glows green or red. When the flame glows green the guard on the other side of the archway waves the person through. When the flame glows red, the guard on the other side of the archway takes a wand out and waves it over the person's body till it glows after finding the non peace bonded weapon somewhere on the person trying to enter the city below. For the most part when people cross the archway the flame glows green and people are waved through so traffic is moving at a pretty steady pace. Every now and then the flame glows red and someone forgot a single weapon or the fact that they are a spellcaster or are a martial artist and the guard with the wand hands them another string that the person ties to the forgotten weapon or their wrist if they are a spellcaster or martial artist before waving the wand over them again and ushering them to continue on their way when the wand does not glow a second time.
Perception DC 12 Highlight to display spoiler: {You notice a half-orc who made no attempts to peace bond his great axe and twin throwing axes being escorted off to a side passage with a sign just inside the passage indicating that that way leads to gaol. The guards at the gate have separated the half-orc from his weapons.}
Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You hear some of the guards call dibs on the half-orc's weapons as they discuss the penalty of gaol for blatantly ignoring the rules and not even attempting to peace bond any weapons.}
It is not yet noon. Do you proceed through the checkpoint? Please detail what weapons you are carrying and if you accept the offered string to peace bond them. Please also note if you try to sneak any weapons past without peace bonding.
Knowledge[local] DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Before heading down to the city below one's weapons need to be peace bonded. This involves tying a peace of string or chain around your weapon which reacts to the wards placed on the city below to keep things non-violent. The guards can forgive one weapon overlooked and they usually let someone off with a warning, insisting that the forgotten weapon be peace bonded. If you neglect to peace bond any of your weapons or it appears blatant that you are trying to take non peace bonded weapons below, the penalty can range from the confiscation said weapon, to a fine, to even time spent in the stocks or gaol. It is not recommended to try to pull something at a checkpoint.} (OOC: You can attempt Knowlege checks with a DC of 10 or below untrained)
Broom (HP 20/20, AC17/T17/FF14) d20+8=18 ; d20=17 ; Monday April 6th, 2015 11:30:10 AM
Broom ties a pretty white ribbon in his broom and two slings.
He looks curiously at a half orc, wondering if anyone else notices.
------- Perception 18 local knowledge 17
Var HP:21/21 AC: 16(T:13/FF:13) CMD:18 d20+9=13 ; d20-1=10 ; Monday April 6th, 2015 3:36:25 PM
(Perception: 13; Local Knowledge: 10) Var watches the Half-Orc get escorted off and recalls what he's heard about the checkpoints.
"Fancy piece of work, this is." Var grumbles to no one in particular as he queues up. Once he gets to the checkpoint i takes three threads, one for each of his handaxes and one for his masterwork longbow.
Wilford Grimly (HP:18/18; AC: 14; Touch: 12; Flat: 12; CMD: 14) d20+7=19 ; Monday April 6th, 2015 4:28:58 PM
Wil waiting in line. He attempts to tie up his daggers causing them to fall loudly to the ground often. Wil currently has 6 daggers and a hand crossbow. He manages to tie up all the daggers and at the last moment secures his hand crossbow. (Local Knowledge: 19) Secondly, the voice of a child peppers him with questions. "Do you have a mother? Is she nice? I like my mother but she's still in the land of the living. I'm hungry. Why can't I see you?"
Ashley Steward[AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22] d20+1=17 ; d20+3=7 ; Monday April 6th, 2015 8:46:55 PM
Ashley grumbles at peace-tying the weapons, but does so. The fighter's greatsword is the first thing that he ties, before moving to the belt on his waist, tying his one handed warhammer and dagger with the ribbons as well. Though he was recovering, the slight pounding in his head made him want to simply move along without having to deal with being hassled. He doesn't seem to notice the half-orc that has been taken off to the side, instead too concerned with his companions and their shuffling along in the line rather than other people. These other people weren't his problem, his companions were.
[Knowledge: Local - 17] [Perception - 7]
Toston Lotor [HP: 14/14; AC 18; Touch 14; FF 14; CMD 16] d20+1=8 ; d20+9=18 ; Monday April 6th, 2015 8:51:48 PM
Toston queues up with the rest of the group, making sure to tie his wrist, and also his many manufactured weapons. The dragon-blooded sorcerer wondered if peace tying one wrist would count for the purposes of his spellcasting and his claws, and bounced with a spring in his step as his curiosity is piqued by the thought, and what would happen next. Watching the half-orc being taken off, his anxiousness increases as he watches the line in front of him pass through the wards.
[Knowledge: Local - 8] [Perception - 18]
Avin Fellows HP:17/17 AC:13 Flat:10 Touch:13 d20+1=8 ; d20+4=15 ; Monday April 6th, 2015 10:02:31 PM
Avin readily binds his daggers but hesitates before placing an additional binding about his wrist which he attempts to cover with the cuff of his sleeve. Grumbling quietly he keeps his head down as he waits to pass by, limiting his perception of the area around him (Perception: 8). Based on his limited knowledge of the city (Local: 15) he thinks better of any attempt to trick the guards at the checkpoint.
OOC: He doesn't have his acid flasks peace-bound. If they trigger the flames he will bind them without a fuss. Not meant to be 'sneaking', just not sure if peace-bonding them would really do anything since it's made to break and not spill.
Talanthrel (Paul) [HP 21/21; AC 17; Touch 14; Flat 13; Cmd17] d20+5=20 ; d20+2=22 ; Monday April 6th, 2015 10:34:40 PM
Talanthrel joins the others on line. After the meeting he had swung by the house and dropped off the items he did not think he would need for this venture. Now as He stood in line he got four cords on for his sword, bow and both daggers. Shaking his head at the antics of the Half-Orc Talanthrel wondered what he was hoping to accomplish.
(Perception 1D20+5= 20) (Knowledge Local 1D20+2=22)
DM Hugh (on loan from Humble's) - Fancy Piece of Work This is d4=3 ; d2=1 ; Monday April 6th, 2015 11:04:44 PM
The party moves through the checkpoint taking cords for their various weapons.
Talenthrel makes it through the archway without raising any alarms.
Avin walks through the arch and the flames glow red. After a little bit of time the half-orc guard on the other side is able to get his wand to glow by waving it over Avin's Acid Flask. "I get it, ye be an adventurer and splash weapons are easy to overlook." The guard says handing Avin some more string for his flasks. He then waves the wand over Avin again after Avin ties the string on his flasks and then waves Avin through.
Toston was nervous. Not only is the monk/sorcerer carrying a small arsenal which he tied the string on each weapon individually, he also has his martial arts training, his claws and his spells. He hopes that one string tied around his wrist is enough. As it turns out, It is. The flame glows green as Toston crosses through the archway and the guard waves him through.
Ashley still suffering the effects of his hangover, bonds his Great Sword, daggers and warhammer and has no problem passing through the archway.
Wil secures his six daggers and his hand crossbow. He too passes through the arch unmolested.
Var grumbles about the checkpoint before accepting the string for his bow and handaxes and also makes it through with no problems.
Broom accepted 3 pieces of string. One for his broom and 2 for each of his slings. He sets off the arch walking through and the human with the wand on the other side of the arch Broom walked through sees the tip of his wand glow red when he waves it over the dwarf's ham size fists. "I dunno if you are a monk or some kinda caster but rules are rules. You gotta put this ribbon around your wrist if you want to enter the Trade Quarter." The guard says to Broom holding out a piece of string.
Broom, what do you do? Take the string and tie it around your wrist or do something else? (OOC: In his post Avin, indicated what he would do in the event of being stopped for the flasks and none of the other party members tripped the alarm)
After making it through the archways the party enters the Trade Quarter and shortly after that Clover way. There is a Tailor's shop called Golden Threads, the sign bears a picture of a needle pulling a thread of gold. An Alchemy shop called Alphonse's. There is also a gnome tinkerer riding a cart drawn by two riding dogs. A half-orc with a small lap dog yipping at his heels is sweeping the stoop at another shop.
Perception DC: 8 Highlight to display spoiler: {Upon turning down Clover Way you can't help but notice that foot traffic has started to thin out in comparison with the other parts of the trade quarter you had to walk through to get there}
Wil Highlight to display spoiler: {Your voices are silent. No one is talking to you at all.}
Avin Fellows HP:17/17 AC:13 Flat:10 Touch:13 d20+1=19 ; Tuesday April 7th, 2015 3:44:13 AM
Having passed through the checkpoint, Avin taps his wrist with two fingers encouraging the dwarf to accept the peace-tie. Feeling oddly exposed the wizard grumbles as the group moves through the district. He grows silent as the feeling redoubles when he notices a thinning in foot-traffic (perception: 19). Avin looks to his companions to see if they have any preferences where to go first.
Broom (HP 20/20, AC17/T17/FF14) d20+8=17 ; Tuesday April 7th, 2015 11:34:27 AM
Broom shrugs and ties the ribbon around his massive arms, glaring all that dares to smile.
------------ Perception 17
Wilford Grimly (HP:18/18; AC: 14; Touch: 12; Flat: 12; CMD: 14) d20+5=14 ; Tuesday April 7th, 2015 2:21:00 PM
As soon as Wil passed through the gate the noise within his head stopped and left him with an eerie quiet. This quiet was unlike a temporary pause outside of the gate. There was always some noise but not this time. Suddenly, he felt the urge to call out for the voice of his mother. Her death was a tragedy which was lessened by the fact that he could speak to her. Wil, though was distracted by the shops within the small town. "I think we could find something interesting in that Alchemy shop," Wil says as he points, "but honestly I'm bored and really want to start some trouble somewhere." Perception: 14
Var HP:21/21 AC: 16(T:13/FF:13) CMD:18 d20+9=14 ; Tuesday April 7th, 2015 5:04:09 PM
(Perception: 14) Var watches the crowds thin out, and begins to feel uneasy. Stuffed underground, banned from his weapons, and now walking out in the open without even a crowd to blend into, he feels very exposed and out of place.
"People live down here? I know that Dirt city isn't exactly the greatest place, but this hardly seems an improvement."
Talanthrel (Paul) [HP 21/21; AC 17; Touch 14; Flat 13; Cmd17] d20+5=22 ; Tuesday April 7th, 2015 10:31:31 PM
(Perception: 22) Talanthrel frowns as he notices the lack of traffic "Well it looks like the locals are definitely avoiding the area." Talanthrel starts browsing the shops in the area to see what they have available and what rumors the locals have.
Toston Lotor [HP: 14/14; AC 18; Touch 14; FF 14; CMD 16] d20+9=12 ; Tuesday April 7th, 2015 11:40:40 PM
Toston keeps his wits about him, looking for any clues that might lead them in the right direction, or for anything out of the ordinary. The lessened crowd in Clover Way helped the short gnome to be able to see better, but not by much.
"Let's see what kind of stories the people around here tell about the spirit. That should help narrow it down, or even give us some clues."
[Perception - 12]
Ashley Steward [AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22] d20+3=14 ; Tuesday April 7th, 2015 11:44:16 PM
Ashley, towering above most of the people down below, tries to use his vantage point to their advantage. While he notices the thin foot traffic here, he wasn't able to make out too many clues with the flow of people. Observing the scene, Ashley's gaze settles on Alphonse's, the alchemy shop.
"Let's try there first. I imagine the dabbling types pay more attention to this kind of thing."
DM Hugh (on loan from Humble's) - Something Interesting in that Alchemy shop Wednesday April 8th, 2015 2:12:42 AM Avin encourages Broom and the Dwarf accepts the string without incident and then the group makes it through to Clover Way. Everyone notices as the crowds thin out upon reaching Clover Way.
Var feels uncomfortable without access to his weapons or the crowds and voices his incredulity that people actually live in The City Below.
Talanthrel and Toston feel that the group should start talking to people to get information.
Wil and Ashley express preferences for the Alchemy Shop so to Alphonse's you go. Wil's voices are still silent.
The shop is on the smaller side. None the less the wooden shelves are still stocked with a variety of reagents, herbs, arcane material components and foci. The smell in the shop is kind of a mixture of flowery and astringent. In the shelves behind the counter you notice manufactured alchemical items like tindertwigs, acid flasks, and the like.
Manning the counter is a 5 foot 4 inch human female with Auburn hair that is tied into twin pigtails each with a blue bow, green eyes and freckles. Her blouse is blue and white vertical striped and is mostly obscured by the black smock she is wearing but you can still see her striped collar. She smiles as the party enters the shop and her gaze seems to linger particularly on Avin and Broom for some reason.
"My name is Wendy. What can I help you fine gentlemen with?" she asks, still smiling as she locks her green eyed gaze with the wizard Avin.
Sense Motive DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Wendy is acting like she is attracted to Broom and Avin.}
Avin Fellows HP:17/17 AC:13 Flat:10 Touch:13 d20+1=18 ; d20+9=26 ; Wednesday April 8th, 2015 6:25:59 AM
(Sense motive 18) Avin sneers back at Wendy and snorts before drawing away from the girl deciding it would be prudent to avoid saying something he would regret. Instead he focuses upon the merchandise and the shop itself looking for anything unique of interest (appraise: 26).
Broom (HP 20/20, AC17/T17/FF14) d20+8=14 ; d20+8=20 ; Wednesday April 8th, 2015 11:15:53 AM
"Dwarf", Broom mumbles softly as he looks around.
--------------------------------- Sense Motive: 14 Perception: 20
Var HP:21/21 AC: 16(T:13/FF:13) CMD:18 d20+4=24 ; d20+9=12 ; d20+3=13 ; Wednesday April 8th, 2015 12:42:10 PM
(Sense Motive: 24 (ooc: 'acting' as in pretending, or genuine interest?)) (perception: 12/Nature: 13) Var takes note of the saleswoman's approach and gauges her demeanor, before taking a deep whiff of the air and attempts to identify the herbs by scent alone.
DM Hugh Edit: (OOC: Genuine Interest)
Wilford Grimly (HP:18/18; AC: 14; Touch: 12; Flat: 12; CMD: 14) d20+5=8 ; d20+8=20 ; Wednesday April 8th, 2015 1:44:41 PM
Wil walks up to the pigtailed Wendy and smiles. He waits for her to acknowledge him that begins with a flirt. "Hi how are you? Don't see too many attractive red heads around here." He smiles. "I heard there was a ghost issue somewhere around here. Did your beautiful ears hear anything?" He pauses then continues. "On other issues, I would like to resupply my wares with some Alchemy Fire and some anti-toxin, if possible. Can I take a look at that Ambrosia and a bag of Black Powder may come in handy too." Wil smiles broadly.
Diplomacy: 20 Sense Motive: 8
Talanthrel (Paul) [HP 21/21; AC 17; Touch 14; Flat 13; Cmd17] Wednesday April 8th, 2015 8:13:30 PM
Talanthrel nods with a smile at Wendy and starts to browse the wares.
Ashley Steward [AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22] Wednesday April 8th, 2015 11:04:28 PM
Ashley smirks slightly at Wilford's flirting, but doesn't say anything, preferring instead to peruse the wares near the back of the store. He didn't want to horn in on Wilford's attempt to charm the small woman, instead looking at poultices, herbs, and ingredients he had no idea how to use.
Toston Lotor [HP: 14/14; AC 18; Touch 14; FF 14; CMD 16] d20+1=18 ; Wednesday April 8th, 2015 11:10:39 PM
Toston, unlike Ashley, stays at the counter with Wilford, attempting to aid Wil with his charming attempts, hoping to get some more information out of the clerk while he eyes some of the reagents behind the counter.
"We're here to help you, and the other people that live or work around here."
[Using Aid Another to give Wil a +2 bonus, making his total check a 22.] [Diplomacy - 18]
DM Hugh (on loan from Humble's) - Did your beautiful ears hear anything d20+6=15 ; Thursday April 9th, 2015 1:06:49 AM
Upon encountering the shop girl the party's reactions are varied.
Avin figures our that she is interested in him so he sneers and snorts, then tries to find anything interesting in the shop's inventory to avoid sticking his foot in his mouth. What Avin notices is 2 jars of a silvery shimmering paste labeled Silversheen sitting high on the shelf behind the counter. "See something you like?" Wendy asks Avin upon noticing his interest in her wares.
Broom softly attempts to correct the gentlemen comment by mentioning he is a dwarf and then takes a look around. Upon hearing the dwarf's correction she says, "I'm sorry I didn't mean to offend. I know that not all of you are human. I should have said gentle beings."
Var sizes up the saleswoman and then attempts to identify the various herbs by scent alone. It is quite the varied bouquet of smells but he is able to identify Oregano, Witch Hazel, St. John's Wort, Holly and Mistletoe.
Talanthrel nods and smiles at Wendy before looking around the store.
Wil walks up to Wendy and says, "Hi how are you? Don't see too many attractive red heads around here." He smiles. "I heard there was a ghost issue somewhere around here. Did your beautiful ears hear anything?"
Ashley smirks slightly at Wilford's flirting, but doesn't say anything, preferring instead to peruse the wares near the back of the store as he did not want to interfere with Wil's attempt at information gathering.
Toston adds, "We're here to help you, and the other people that live or work around here."
"My Goodness." Wendy replies, 'It's funny you should mention my ears. Recently I have started hearing things. Things like disembodied voices that appear to be coming from nowhere in both the common tongue and a language I don't recognize. I think I've clearly heard the phrases, 'We're trying.' and 'Leave now.' distinctly as well as other words I couldn't quite make out. I've also heard odd scratching and pounding noises.
She goes on, "It isn't just my ears that have noticed things. After closing up shop I was on my way home one evening and I saw with my own two eyes, glowing figures down one of the alleyways in Clover Way I pass on my way home. I don't remember which one as I was fairly shocked after seeing a ghost. To be honest until recently, I hadn't thought they existed. I know I'm not the only one down here that has seen and heard things. People talk and Clover Way...it wasn't always as deserted as it is becoming now. I'd leave this place and look for a job elsewhere, but I'm not sure if I could find something else below and the stories about the city above scare me more than the ghosts."
Wil then inquires about purchasing some alchemist's fire, anti-venom, ambrosia and black powder.
"Alchemist's fire are 20 gold a piece. Anti venom is 50 gold per dose. I'm sorry but we don't carry ambrosia or black powder." She answers.
Avin Fellows HP:17/17 AC:13 Flat:10 Touch:13 d20+9=16 ; Thursday April 9th, 2015 3:32:32 AM
Avin considers the silversheen for a moment. It could certainly prove useful if undead were again involved. He resolves to inform the other members of the group before leaving the shop.
(Spellcraft:16) The wizard immediately conjectures the potential causes of the sounds and visions to perhaps be mere Ghost Sounds and Dancing Lights although a slightly more experienced spellcaster could use Ventriloquism or even a Silent Image. He waves the thought away. It might be easy to replicate as a wizard but it could just as easily still be a ghost or even several ghosts. At least now the group would have an idea of what manifestations were about. Although...
"Alley?" Avin questions, "What alley?"
Wilford Grimly (HP:18/18; AC: 14; Touch: 12; Flat: 12; CMD: 14) d20+8=9 ; Thursday April 9th, 2015 4:25:41 PM
Wil smiles at Wendy as he orders 5 jars of oil and 2 jars of Alchemist fire. "No Black powder, that's a shame." "It's interesting the way you explain these noises." Wil began. "Do these noises you hear make you turn your head or do they seem to be in your head?" "I heard this scratching..." he began but stopped abruptly not wanting to tell the fine lady about the voices he heard. "I'm not a firm believer of ghosts myself but it's certainly something I would like to check out. How about you show us where you saw these ghosts?" Wil's elbow slides from the counter causing him to fall. He stand back up slowly, red-faced.
Diplomacy: 9
Var HP:21/21 AC: 16(T:13/FF:13) CMD:18 Thursday April 9th, 2015 10:06:33 PM
Var watches Will flounder and chuckles to himself.
Talanthrel (Paul) [HP 21/21; AC 17; Touch 14; Flat 13; Cmd17] Thursday April 9th, 2015 10:07:53 PM
Shaking his head ruefully at Will's antics, Talanthrel continues to browse the wares looking for Holy water and Sunrods, while listening to the conversation.
Toston Lotor [HP: 14/14; AC 18; Touch 14; FF 14; CMD 16] d20+1=21 ; Thursday April 9th, 2015 10:48:38 PM
Toston giggles at Wilford sliding off of the counter, striking up conversation as well to try and help the rogue recover.
"You said other people have experienced these sightings and strange sounds? Can you tell us who?"
[Diplomacy - 21]
https://docs.google.com/document/d/18Xiqovn-nhdth79jctcJs_jY7aNynRkHBOpJCMeq0Kg/pubAshley Steward [AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22] d20+3=21 ; Thursday April 9th, 2015 10:50:46 PM
Ashley contimnues to peruse the wares silently, keeping a wary eye out for anyone undesirable listening to their conversation with the young woman, as well as anyone else that might be lurking about in the shop.
[Perception - 21]
Ashley Steward [AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22] Friday April 10th, 2015 12:18:39 AM
[Messed up header, fixing.]
DM Hugh (on loan from Humble's) -Alley? What Alley? d20+6=19 ; Friday April 10th, 2015 2:15:23 AM Avin notes the silversheen, opts to bring it to the groups attention before they go and ponders what type of magic could recreate the described ghosts before asking Wendy the questions "Alley? What Alley?"
Wil requests 5 jars of oil and 2 alchemists fires from Wendy. He starts to explain about the voices he hears, but then thinks better of it before asking Wendy to show the party where she saw the ghosts. He ends up sliding down the counter to fall flat on his face. He picks himself up red-faced and chagrined.
Both Var and Talanthrel watch Wil's antics. Talanthrel looks for and finds both holy water and sun rods behind the counter.
Toston inquires as to who else might have seen or heard things.
Ashley continues to check out the goods on display while remaining vigilant for eavesdroppers. The small shop appears empty save for Wendy and yourselves. No one has entered or left since you arrived.
Wendy fills Wil's order. (OOC: Wil deduct 40 gold and 5 silver and give yourself 2 alchemists fire and 5 flasks of oil)
She then proceeds to answer both Avin's and Wil's further inquiries regarding the alley where she saw the glowing figures. "As I said I am not sure which particular alley it was as I was quite startled. It is one of the alleys in Clover Way between here and the entrance to the Halfling Sewer. As for showing you I can't as I have to watch the shop and as I just said I don't know which particular alley it was."
Wendy looks Avin directly in the eyes and says, "I'm sorry I can't be more help with the alley. I really am. I'm sure someone as intelligent as you must be able to figure it out." She smiles sincerely at Avin, "I saw the string around your wrist and the way your eyes were drawn to the silversheen. You must be a great and powerful wizard. Tell me your name, so that I may know who to thank after you put an end to the haunting."
She then says, "As to who else may have seen things, let me think...There is old man Jenkins. He is a frequent customer of the shops down here. Last time I saw him he was making some commotion about the spirits wanting people out of clover way. I believe the half-orc day laborer with the little dog said he saw something. I think Fletch, the gnome tinkerer with the cart said something about ghosts as well. Then there is Billy, the halfling that owns Golden Threads. He was complaining that the ghosts are driving away business. Lastly there is Three Bits, but she is a bit dodgy, so you probably want to avoid her. If you go to her there may be a price or favor involved to find out what she knows if she knows anything concerning this that is. I mean she traffics in information."
What will you do now? Purchase more items from the shop? Try to find the alley Wendy was talking about? Look for and question some of the other people Wendy described? It is just past noon.
Var HP:21/21 AC: 16(T:13/FF:13) CMD:18 d20+4=10 ; Friday April 10th, 2015 10:48:01 AM
Var watches the young woman to judge her sincerity (Sense Motive: 10) but figures that she must be telling the truth.
"Lets ask around a bit more..." Var says and heads outside, when the others join him he says "Lets talk to this Billy next, seems like he knows more about this. I think we should talk with this Three Bits, as well, if she deals in information she no doubt knows quite a bit more than what people on the street do."
"Asking as an outsider, what sort of history does the City Below have? Are hauntings frequent?"
Broom (HP 20/20, AC17/T17/FF14) Friday April 10th, 2015 12:13:46 PM
Broom nervously look at all the flammable stuff Wil is carrying. He doesn't think it is a good idea to have too much of such stuff with so much wood around, especially his treasured broom.
Ashley Steward [AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22] Friday April 10th, 2015 9:27:25 PM
Ashley moves out of the store without buying anything, nodding his agreement with Var as he looks around their surroundings once more.
"Aye, that sounds like a good plan. Golden Threads is close, we should start there before we start making deals with a broker."
Toston Lotor [HP: 14/14; AC 18; Touch 14; FF 14; CMD 16] Friday April 10th, 2015 9:30:08 PM
Toston's eyes light up at the mention of the gnome tinker, and as they make their way outside, the monk makes his opinion known.
"We should also try to find this tinker. We gnomes have an approximate knowledge of many things, so I would say that this tinker may have valuable information. he may even be working on sort of device to try to find the ghost, if that's possible without magic. I'm not sure. There's only one way to find out! While we're there we could check out his projects to see if anything would make a nice addition to the house. Oh yes, all it needs is some Gnomish ingenuity to spruce it right up!"
Avin Fellows HP:17/17 AC:13 Flat:10 Touch:13 Friday April 10th, 2015 10:30:11 PM
Avin takes an unsteady step away from Wendy, uneasy with her direct attention and tugs at his sleeves in a futile attempt to cover the peace-tie on his wrist.
"Thank Flower or whatever god you wish," the wizard mumbles. "Just leave me out of it."
Stepping aside he points out the silversheen to the warriors amongst the group and describes its purpose speaking hastily in a clear attempt to refocus on something not Wendy.
Wilford Grimly (HP:18/18; AC: 14; Touch: 12; Flat: 12; CMD: 14) Saturday April 11th, 2015 10:39:44 AM
Wil dusts himself off and thoroughly confident he had just made a fool of himself takes his purchases and packs them away. He then turns and waits by the door for the others. "What was that?" He says quietly to himself but loud enough so others can hear him. "I would like to see these ghosts in person. For some reason the voices in my head have disappeared. I could use them to discover the reason for this haunting."
DM Hugh (on loan from Humble's) - this tinker may have valuable information Sunday April 12th, 2015 11:06:00 PM Var voices that his preference is to interview Billy and Three Bits.
Broom eyes Wil and his pile of flammable objects warily.
Ashley agrees with Var about checking out the tailor.
Toston voices a preference for interviewing the tinker and brings up the fact that the tinker may have some traps they can deploy around the Marsh House.
Avin rebuffs Wendy's advances by telling her she can thank Flower or whatever God she wished but leave him out of it. He then points out to the rest of the group that he saw silversheen and lets them know what it can do.
Wil dusts himself off and then packs his purchases away. He voices his preference that he would like to see the ghosts in person to figure out the mystery of his absent voices. Wil's voices are still absent.
After exiting Alphonse's you see that the scene outside has changed. The gnome tinker who has purple skin and magenta hair done in a series of elaborate knots has transformed the cart she was riding in into a stall and has set up shop between Alphonse's and Golden Threads. The dogs that pulled the cart are tied to one of the posts and she has a customer. The half-orc that was sweeping the stoop is now out front of the stall and is engaged with the gnome in some sort of business transaction. The gnome is holding up a broom that has a leash holder built into the shaft and has a mini - bag dispenser at the top part of the handle. What Luck! You remember that the Gnome's name is Fletch and that both her and the half-orc day laborer whose name Wendy did not know had seen and heard some things regarding the haunting according to Wendy.
It is still a little after noon. Do you stop and ask Fletch and the half-orc day laborer with the dog what they know about the haunting or do you keep going to Golden Threads?
Talanthrel (Paul) [HP 21/21; AC 17; Touch 14; Flat 13; Cmd17] Monday April 13th, 2015 8:55:40 PM
Talanthrel purchases 4 vials of holy water (100gp) and 2 sunrods (4gp). Giving a cheerful farewell to Wendy he hurries out to the shop to catch up with the others.
Var HP:21/21 AC: 16(T:13/FF:13) CMD:18 d20+5=6 ; Monday April 13th, 2015 9:52:23 PM
Var follows Will over to the half orc, but seems to pay more attention to the dog (animal handling: 6). The thrusts his hand out to pet the dog and is met by a snarl.
Avin Fellows HP:17/17 AC:13 Flat:10 Touch:13 d20+9=20 ; Monday April 13th, 2015 10:20:46 PM
Taking after the group, Avin studies the cart's contents much as he did the inventory of the alchemy shop, (20 appraise check) while Wil begins to question the half-orc.
Toston Lotor [HP: 14/14; AC 18; Touch 14; FF 14; CMD 16] d20+1=13 ; Monday April 13th, 2015 10:47:29 PM
While the others engage the Half-Orc, Toston instead heads for his fellow gnome, flashing a smile of interest and curiosity at the tinkerer's inventions and creations.
"Good day to you! My companions and I are looking for information regarding the recent haunting. We were wondering if you know anything about them? By the way, your creations look very practical, and are quite creative!"
[Diplomacy - 13]
Ashley Steward [AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22] d20+3=19 ; Monday April 13th, 2015 10:50:59 PM
As the other companions speak with the Half-Orc, and Toston engages the gnome, the fighter instead lingers at the edge of the group, keeping an eye out for those paying too much attention to them as a whole. Even down here, prying eyes were everywhere.
[Perception - 19]
DM Hugh (on loan from Humble's) - this tinker may have valuable information d20+14=29 ; Monday April 13th, 2015 11:27:13 PM
As the group is on its way to visit the stall where the half-orc and gnome are engaged in business a human courier approaches the group. He is wearing green livery with a wooden button carved with the Crescent Moons Trading Company logo upon it. He approaches the group and says, "I have an important letter for a Mr. Broom."
Broom cautiously approaches the courier and raises his hand. The courier says, "Ah, yes I was told to expect a dwarf. This is for you sir."
Broom takes the envelope from the courier and reads its. He pauses for a moment and then quietly says, "I must go."
To the courier he says, "Take me there."
The courier says, "Very good, sir."
The courier leads the dwarf down the tunnel leading out of clover way and toward the halfling quarter. You see the figures growing smaller in the distance as they get further from you until they follow a curve in the passageway and with that the silent and steadfast dwarf monk is gone.
Talanthrel had let his mind wander while in the alchemy shop. Snapping to his senses he purchases some holy water and sun rods before catching up with the rest of the group.
Wil attempts to engage the half-orc day laborer in conversation about the haunting.
Var follows Wil's lead and goes over to the half-orc and tries to pet his dog, but the dog ends up growling at him.
Avin peruses the gnome's cart. Among the assorted tchotchkes he sees some barbed wire, a spiked snare trap and what appears to be some punji stakes. He also notices a beautifully crafted composite longbow with mother of pearl inlays and a small set of silver nunchaku, 3 silver tipped crossbow bolts and 2 silver tipped arrows.
Toston compliments the gnome tinker on her creations and inquires if she knows anything about the recent haunting.
Ashley lingers on the edges of the group and keeps watch for prying eyes but does not notice anyone taking unusual interest in the group.
The half-orc looks at Wil with an almost vacant expression, then gives the rogue a toothy grin and says, "I am Grut. I took Rocky on a walk some days ago and we saw a glowing ghost. Grut strong, but ghost creepy so we hurried away."
The dog growled at Var at the mention of his name.
Fletch looks at Toston and smiles warmly, she then says a greeting in gnomish.
Gnomish speakers Highlight to display spoiler: {"I don't see many of my people here in Dirt City and not every one appreciates Gnome ingenuity. My name is Fletch. What's yours?"}
Sensing that speaking in Gnomish may be impolite in mixed company Fletch switches back to the common tongue.
"It's funny you should ask about the haunting. I was riding my cart pulled by Bow and Arrow here," Fletch indicates the 2 riding dogs tied to the cart pole, "and I was passing one of the alleys on the way out of Clover Way and I saw strange lights. The lights didn't seem to be from prestidigitation or dancing light. They were very bright yellow. I also heard some voices. It sounded like a gruff voice said, 'A few day's more' whatever that meant."
Wilford Grimly (HP:18/18; AC: 14; Touch: 12; Flat: 12; CMD: 14) Tuesday April 14th, 2015 7:55:27 PM
Wil paused for a moment after the half-orc finished speaking. "Sorry, did you say Grut or Groot? I knew a guy once named Groot. Anyways, seems like these ghost like to hang around the alleys. How about we set up camp in an alley and wait?" Wil then walks over to the cart to possibly purchase the silver tipped bolts.
Var HP:21/21 AC: 16(T:13/FF:13) CMD:18 d20+5=16 ; d20+1=21 ; Tuesday April 14th, 2015 8:21:16 PM
Var awkwardly pulls his hand away from the dog, and listens to the Half-Orc, rolling his eyes at his at the stereotypical big-dumb-lug. "Okaythanksbye" Var says and hurriedly joins the others at the cart, saying a quick hello to the gnome, and a cautious hello to the Dogs (Animal Handling: 16), before inquiring about the silvered arrows, the spike trap and the longbow.
Picking up the conversation, Var says "How recently did you see this ghost? Do you remember the alley? What about any local legends about haunting down here?" (Untrained Diplomacy: 21 (OOC: oh that I roll a 20 on, but not Animal Handling!?))
Talanthrel (Paul) [HP 21/21; AC 17; Touch 14; Flat 13; Cmd17] Tuesday April 14th, 2015 10:24:58 PM
Talanthrel listens to the conversation while making sure the vials of holy water are stowed in hi pouch in such a way that they will not break.
Ashley Steward [AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22] Tuesday April 14th, 2015 10:28:11 PM
Ashley chuckles at Var's exchange with the other Half-Orc, but doesn't offer any further comment than that. Seeming satisfied that they weren't being eyeballed too closely, the human relaxes, though still stays out of the general bustle of conversation. Too many cooks in the kitchen, and all that.
Toston Lotor [HP: 14/14; AC 18; Touch 14; FF 14; CMD 16] d20+1=5 ; Tuesday April 14th, 2015 10:31:08 PM
"I'm Toston, Toston Lotor. A pleasure. You said that you heard a voice, could you tell how far away from the lights the voice was coming from? Any distinct accent, racial or regional? Oh, and how much for the nunchaku?"
The monk gestures to the silver nunchaku at the gnome's cart, smiling pleasantly, at least in his opinion. To others, it probably looks a bit creepy.
[OOC - gotta love low Charisma based rolls!] [Diplomacy - 5]
Avin Fellows HP:17/17 AC:13 Flat:10 Touch:13 Tuesday April 14th, 2015 11:07:58 PM
Avin remarks upon the wares to his companions, at least any that would take a moment from their investigation. He turns to Fletch and addresses her in the Gnome tongue, following her example.
For those who speak Gnomish. Highlight to display spoiler: {"Fellows. Avin Fellows. Say, this snare trap. Might a layman be able to set this without too much difficulty? How much would it and the wire cost?"}
DM Hugh (on loan from Humble's) - How recently did you see this ghost? d20+14=29; Tuesday April 14th, 2015 11:31:02 PM Wil asks for clarification about the the half-orc's name before inquiring about the silver bolts and suggesting the party stake out an alley to find the ghosts.
Var rolls his eyes at Grut and then joins the others at the cart. He greets Bow and Arrow and they receive him better than Rocky did.
Talanthrel listens to his companions while carefully stowing his holy water.
Ashley relaxes as the group does not appear to be being observed.
Toston introduces himself then asks some follow up questions concerning the ghosts and the silver nunchaku.
Avin introduces himself in Gnomish and inquires about the price of the snare trap and how difficult it would be to setup.
Fletch starts off by answering the business related questions: "Silver arrows are 2 gold and 5 copper each, Silver Bolts are 2 gold and 1 silver each, the masterwork composite longbow is 500 gold (OOC:It has a +1 strength modifier), the spiked snare trap is 500 gold and it isn't too hard for a layman to setup. By the way punji sticks are only 250 gold and if you are using them for home protection at a location in Dirt City I will set them up myself (OOC: I am actually lowering the suggested price here but traps are still expensive), the silver nunchaku are 22 gold."
"As to how recently I saw the lights and noises it was a few days ago now. It was one of the alleys closer to Clover Way than the halfling quarter, but I don't remember which one. As for local haunting legends, from what I understand this area of the sewer had none until a few weeks ago and then it suddenly became a hotbed of paranormal activity."
Perception DC:29 Highlight to display spoiler: {You notice that a cloaked figure, that is trying to not be noticed, seems to be taking an unhealthy interest in your conversation revolving around the haunting}
What now? Do you question Fletch further? Buy some of her goods? Continue to Golden Threads? Some other option?
Var HP:21/21 AC: 16(T:13/FF:13) CMD:18 d20+9=24 ; Wednesday April 15th, 2015 5:39:18 PM
(perception: 24) Var counts out 5 gold and purchases the silvered arrows.
Wilford Grimly (HP:18/18; AC: 14; Touch: 12; Flat: 12; CMD: 14) d20+5=12 ; Wednesday April 15th, 2015 6:10:33 PM
"Fletch, may I purchase 10 silver bolt, please. Your Composite Bow is very nice but I'm a little short on cash and this hand crossbow doesn't fetch much. It'd be nice to have." He says to the vendor. "Seems like the hauntings hang around the alleys a lot. We should start there." He suggests. Perception: 12
Avin Fellows HP:17/17 AC:13 Flat:10 Touch:13 Wednesday April 15th, 2015 6:40:44 PM
Avin's nose wrinkles at the price of the spiked trap. It might have it's uses but the price was greater than he could afford for such a luxury. Fletch's comments on the paranormal cut off his rising stream of grumbles.
"Sewers? What's happening in the sewers? The sewers?"
Talanthrel (Paul) [HP 21/21; AC 17; Touch 14; Flat 13; Cmd17] d20+5=25 ; Wednesday April 15th, 2015 10:12:39 PM
Talanthrel moves over to take a look at the quality of the Masterwork Composite Longbow, While dreaming of the day he will be able to craft one himself. (Perception=25)
Toston Lotor [HP: 14/14; AC 18; Touch 14; FF 14; CMD 16] - CMTC d20+9=10 ; Thursday April 16th, 2015 2:42:08 AM
Toston opts to purchase the silver nunchaku asking Fletch if she would accept mundane nunchaku in trade at 50% value. He is too caught up in the transaction to notice anything.
(Perception: 10)
Ashley Steward[AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22] d20+3=18 ; Thursday April 16th, 2015 2:47:21 AM
Ashley takes another look around Clover Way. Opting to let the others continue to question and make purchases of Fletch's wares.
(Perception: 18)
DM Hugh (on loan from Humble's) - Sewers? What's happening in the sewers? The sewers? d20+14=25 ; Thursday April 16th, 2015 3:07:39 AM Var counts out 5 gold and purchases the 2 silvered arrows.
Fletch gives him 9 silver in change.
Wil asks Fletch if he can purchase 10 silver crossbow bolts and compliments her on the longbow, lamenting his lack of funds and hand crossbow. He also suggests checking out the alleys.
(OOC 1: Wil isn't proficient with long bows so your hand crossbow is actually a better fit for Wil since he would take a -4 penalty with a long bow. Now if you want to find a composite or regular short bow, Wil could use that without penalty)
Fletch says, "I only have 3 silver bolts at the moment. You are welcome to them. If you want you can order the other 7 and I can have them for you in 4 days."
Avin asks "Sewers? What's happening in the sewers? The sewers?"
Fletch says, "Sewers is an expression. I mean where we are now. Clover Way. The entirety of the City Below used to be sewers before it was built out."
(OOC 2: I was looking at the map of the city below on the page and it makes a lot of reference to sewers so I thought the City Below = Sewers. That might have been a mistake on my part. Bad DM!)
Talanthrel admires the craftsmanship of the longbow, wistfully longing for the day he can craft one such as it.
Toston opts to purchase the silver nunchaku and inquires about trading in his old nunchaku.
"Normally I don't buy other people's items if it is something I can make myself, but for a fellow gnome I can make an exception just this once. 21 gold with the trade in of your old nunchaku." Fletch says.
Ashley takes another look around Clover Way. He still doesn't notice anything.
Perception DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {You notice that a cloaked figure, that is trying to not be noticed, seems to be taking an unhealthy interest in your group and is casually coming closer to the gnome's cart. The figure is moving in such a way as to try to not stick out.}
As noted earlier, the cart is situated between Alphonse's and Golden Threads. The alleys mentioned by Fletch and Wendy are in the opposite direction. Do you continue on your way to Golden Threads or follow Wil's suggestion and scope out the alleys? Or do something else?
Var HP:21/21 AC: 16(T:13/FF:13) CMD:18 d20+9=17 ; d20+4=12 ; Thursday April 16th, 2015 4:52:27 PM
(Perception: 17) (Sense Motive: 12) Var tries to pay attention to the conversation, and judge how sincere Fletch is being, but he's also quite enamored with his new arrows, which he tucks neatly into his quiver.
"I suppose we should go talk to this fellow at the Golden Threads, then we might want to find that information broker. But I'd like to begin hunting, soon; I'd...rather not be down here at night."
Wilford Grimly (HP:18/18; AC: 14; Touch: 12; Flat: 12; CMD: 14) Thursday April 16th, 2015 6:02:57 PM
Wil wonders about the time. How long till darkness begins to fall? He purchases the 3 bolts for 6 gp and waits for the others. He ponders about the silence within his head. The companions he was normally forced to deal with still didn't talk to him. "What kind of magic is this?" He wondered. Var stood next to Wil so he mentioned this fact. "You know I don't hear a thing from the undead. The voices are gone. It's quite disturbing once you have been hearing the mur murs for years."
Avin Fellows HP:17/17 AC:13 Flat:10 Touch:13 Thursday April 16th, 2015 8:04:17 PM
Although not entirely unpleasant, Avin gets the distinct feeling that the group should not tarry here with so little information apparent. He makes a soft rumble of discontent and begins to make his way to the Golden Threads. It might not be possible to get an interview later after all. He glances back to see if the others have agreed with his unspoken sentiment.
Toston Lotor [HP: 14/14; AC 18; Touch 14; FF 14; CMD 16] d20+9=28 ; Thursday April 16th, 2015 9:54:52 PM
Toston looks to the others, nodding his agreement to head to Golden Threads after securing the silvered nunchaku. Casting a glance about at their surroundings one last time, the gnome makes his way with the rest of his companions. When Toston notices the cloaked figure trying to blend in with the crowd yet continue approaching them, he tries to get the attention of the group without being too obvious.
"Hey guys, let's take another look at Fletch's cart. I just remembered some questions!"
The gnome's eyes, however, stay locked on the hooded figure, awaiting his companions to follow his gaze.
Ashley Steward [AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22 d20+3=6 ; Thursday April 16th, 2015 9:57:16 PM
Ashley begins to move off towards Golden Threads with the rest, grunting at the prospect of yet another string of questions. When Toston calls back to the group, the human turns around, suspciously looking first to the gnome monk, then to where his eyes are traveling.
[Perception - 6]
Talanthrel (Paul) [HP 21/21; AC 17; Touch 14; Flat 13; Cmd17] d20+5=11 ; Thursday April 16th, 2015 10:34:01 PM
Talanthrel looks at Toston and queries "What have we not asked?" (Perception=11)
DM Hugh (on loan from Humble's) - "What have we not asked?" d20+9=18 ; d20+14=15 ; Friday April 17th, 2015 12:02:53 AM Var is of the opinion that the party should visit Golden Threads then track down the information broker before hunting for the ghosts.
Wil wonders how long it is till dark and purchases the 3 bolts Fletch does have. He also tells Var about the absence of his voices.
Fletch says to Wil, "You are a little short. You owe me 3 silver pieces for the bolts. Each bolt was 2 gold and 1 silver."
Avin proceeds toward the Golden Threads making it known to his companions that they shouldn't tarry there with so little information apparent.
Toston secures the silver nunchaku and then takes one last look around the area of the cart before contradicting Avin's sentiment. He says, "Hey guys, let's take another look at Fletch's cart. I just remembered some questions!" as his gaze follows the cloaked figure with an apparent interest in the party, hoping the other party members will get the clue without alerting their shadow that they are onto him or her.
Ashley starts heading off to the Golden Threads then turns back when he hears the monk's outburst. His eyes first turn to the monk then to the spot where the monk is staring.
Talanthrel asks Toston, "What have we not asked?"
Your shadow had noticed the fact that some of you noticed her so rather than keep the charade going any longer she lowers her hood. A striking human female face is revealed with dark hair tied into a pony tail, brown eyes and a pale complexion.
She approaches the group and answers Talanthrel, "For starters, you have not asked who I am, though from what I gather you know my name already. Allow me to introduce myself. I am known as Three Bits. I believe that you have heard of me and are familiar with my trade."
"The answer to that question is on the house as is the answer to the question of how can I help you." She says matter o' factly. "I have been to the alley where the hauntings that you are interested in are said to have occurred and I have found something most peculiar. I know that you have been trying to find this alley and I can save you the trip of going there as the only thing of interest to be found there I have in my possession. I think it would go a long way to explaining what is going on here and I will give it to you in exchange for a small favor. You found me when I did not want to be found so you are obviously a capable lot. This favor should be no sweat for the likes of you. What do you say?" She smiles seductively at Ashley, "Surely a strong fighter such as yourself will have no trouble handling a minor pest problem." she purrs.
Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Three Bits is wearing a wig, though you can't tell what her real hair color is. Also the paleness of her skin is most likely accomplished cosmetically and her eye color is achieved through lenses.}
It is still early in the afternoon. Do you engage in further conversation with Three Bits, head to Golden Threads or do something else?
Avin Fellows HP:17/17 AC:13 Flat:10 Touch:13 d20+1=13 ; Friday April 17th, 2015 7:36:14 AM
Avin grumbles, he hadn't noticed Three Bits in the shadows and he was sure there was more than he wasn't noticing (perception: 13). He scowls at Toston realizing the gnome had been trying to alert the rest of them of the woman. He huffs and turns back to Three Bits.
"What thing is it?" the wizard asks bluntly.
Var HP:21/21 AC: 16(T:13/FF:13) CMD:18 d20+9=19 ; d20+4=7 ; Friday April 17th, 2015 12:56:22 PM
Var takes out the silver he was just putting back into his pouch, and hands 3 silver back to Fletch, giving Will a nod. "I can't say I know much about a...condition such as yours. You heard these voices before when we fought the undead, right? Maybe this isn't a ghost at all, if you aren't hearing them now."
(perception: 19) Var jumps visibly when he realizes they were being tailed. He follows her gaze to Ashley and then back again (Sense motive: 7), and then asks "What kind of pests?"
Wilford Grimly (HP:18/18; AC: 14; Touch: 12; Flat: 12; CMD: 14) d20+5=22 ; d20+8=23 ; Saturday April 18th, 2015 3:30:37 PM
Wil doesn't hear the vendor and begins to walk toward the stranger when he realizes Var has covered his mistake. "Thank you, my friend. It is appreciated." Wil walks up to Three Bits. "Your a bit of work, are you not. A wig and a thick covering of makeup to hide what?" Wil asks in the most pleasant way possible. "A favor for someone who hides and stalks others is a bit suspicious, you think?"
Perception: 22 Diplomacy: 23
Ashley Steward [AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22 d20+3=20 ; Sunday April 19th, 2015 10:51:56 PM
Ashley looks the woman up and down, half sizing her up, and half scoping her out for attractiveness since she started down the road of a flirtatious tone. However, the fighter knows better than to play into that veritable spider web, shrugging at the rest of the group as he responds to Three-Bits.
"We're willing to hear it out, but don't take it as a guarantee until we've heard it."
Toston Lotor [HP: 14/14; AC 18; Touch 14; FF 14; CMD 16] d20+9=25 ; d20+1=16 ; Sunday April 19th, 2015 10:56:15 PM
Toston notices the disguise that Three Bits has given herself, the gnome smiling knowingly to himself at the attempt to hide her true features from them.
"What an interesting shade of color! Did you tire of your natural complexion?"
Toston asks the question in a good manner, trying to get the information broker to slip up and reveal something about herself that she otherwise wouldn't. A slim chance, with her chosen profession, but any edge would be worthwhile.
Nicholas Butler Sunday April 19th, 2015 10:57:28 PM
OOC: I forgot to list the roll purposes in Ashley and Toston's Posts, so I'm placing them here.
Ashley:
[Perception - 20]
Toston:
[Perception - 25] [Diplomacy - 16]
DM Hugh (on loan from Humble's) - "What thing is it?" Monday April 20th, 2015 7:48:34 AM
The party has mixed reactions at the sudden appearance of Three Bits and her offer of something peculiar from the Alley in question in exchange for the party's assistance with a pest problem.
Avin is not amused at Three Bits sudden appearance and bluntly asks, "What thing is it?"
Three Bits responds, "Telling would ruin the surprise." She takes a small sack from her belt and says, "Rest assured the thing is in this bag and it will raise some questions concerning this haunting. It can be yours for the low cost of dealing with a pest problem." She then puts the sack back.
Var jumps when he realizes the group was being tailed then asks, "What kind of pests?"
Three bits says, "Some sort of giant insect I believe. Clovis, the guard that came to me said he can't stand bugs."
Wil says to Three Bits in the most pleasant way possible. "Your a bit of work, are you not. A wig and a thick covering of makeup to hide what?" Wil asks "A favor for someone who hides and stalks others is a bit suspicious, you think?"
Toston asks "What an interesting shade of color! Did you tire of your natural complexion?"
Three Bits smiles at Wil and says, "I would think one such as yourself, 'Wilford Grimly' could appreciate someone wanting to keep certain things about themselves private. In my line of work it pays to be cautious and approaching an unknown element without a disguise is like playing darts without a dartboard. As to what I really look like, lets leave that up to the imagination. As for hiding and stalking, I am a lone woman and you are a bunch of males and this is Dirt City. I need to evaluate the people I am looking to deal with before approaching them. You would begrudge me a bit of caution?"
Ashley sizes Three Bits up, shrugs to the group and says, "We're willing to hear it out, but don't take it as a guarantee until we've heard it."
Three Bits says, "There is your bit of caution that I won't begrudge you. To put it plainly, I will give you the contents of the sack, which is what I found in the haunted alley, if you will go to the warehouse that Clovis guards and help him with his insect problem. I will give you exact directions once we have a deal. After you complete this task the item is all yours. Easy Peasy. What do you say? Do we have a deal?"
Three Bits then adds as an afterthought, "Also, you don't even have to head directly to the warehouse first, if you want to question Billy at Golden Threads before you deal with the pest problem go ahead. I don't mind."
Do you agree to Three Bits offer? If so is it off to the warehouse or onto Golden Threads? If not is it onto Golden Threads or a different destination?
Wilford Grimly (HP:18/18; AC: 14; Touch: 12; Flat: 12; CMD: 14) Monday April 20th, 2015 11:37:33 AM
Wil laughed loudly at the veiled threat. "There is little wrong with 3 bit of privacy," playing off the brokers name. A lone woman in an environment like this is always an adventure. I have done many of smaller missions to save woman in the same. You seem fully capable of defending yourself given your bravery to threaten my privacy. I have no qualms with pest control, being within the Grubbers I have dispensed many times many creepy crawlers."
Var HP:21/21 AC: 16(T:13/FF:13) CMD:18 Monday April 20th, 2015 7:05:58 PM
"This warehouse is down here? How are we supposed to hunt bugs without our weapons?" Var says
Talanthrel (Paul) [HP 21/21; AC 17; Touch 14; Flat 13; Cmd17] d20+5=23 ; Monday April 20th, 2015 9:23:21 PM
Talanthrel smirks and says to Var "Ahh. But that will be the entertaining bit." Talanthrel continues to look around not trusting that Three Bits was alone or unfollowed. (Perception=23)
Avin Fellows HP:17/17 AC:13 Flat:10 Touch:13 Monday April 20th, 2015 9:43:17 PM
Avin stands by silently. his allies have perceived much more about this woman than he. He does however, find himself agreeing with Var's sentiment and nodding his head. If there was a solution to this problem it would be rather beneficial to the party to follow through on the opportunity.
Ashley Steward [AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22] d20=15 ; d20+9=11 ; Monday April 20th, 2015 10:06:22 PM
Ashley listens to Three Bits, considering her proposal before he smirks to himself. He may be pressing their luck, but he had to at least try for what he is going for.
"We might be inclined, but there's a problem. We don't know what's in the sack, do we? For all we know, not to insult, but the contents of that bag could be nothing. Show us what's in it, we won't touch, to prove that it's worth our while to inspect it."
The fighter takes a few steps towards the woman, looking down at her from his vantage point. His tone was business like and professional enough, but his body language clearly shows that he isn't asking her, more than he's telling her.
[For the Words: Diplomacy - 15] [For the Unspoken: Intimidate - 11]
Toston Lotor [HP: 14/14; AC 18; Touch 14; FF 14; CMD 16] d20+1=19 ; Monday April 20th, 2015 10:09:30 PM
Toston watches the group interactions with Three Bits carefully, noting Ashley's attempts to move the conversation further to their advantage. Seeing that Ashley had forgotten to stop slouching, therefore not cutting as imposing of a figure as he usually did, the sorcerer chimes in after the fighter.
"Though I believe we're going to accept your offer, regardless."
[Diplomacy - 19]
DM Hugh (on loan from Humble's) - I believe we're going to accept your offer, regardless. d20+12=27 ; Tuesday April 21st, 2015 12:18:43 AM Wil is unfazed by Three Bits subtle dig regarding the Darts and is of the opinion that she could take care of herself. He is game for some pest control. He tells Three Bits this.
Var says "This warehouse is down here? How are we supposed to hunt bugs without our weapons?"
Talanthrel smirks and says to Var "Ahh. But that will be the entertaining bit." before looking around to see if Three Bits has any cohorts.
Avin stands by silently nodding in agreement with Var's sentiment.
Three Bits answers, "I never said the warehouse was down here. The entrance to the Warehouse is in Backstab Quarter in the City Above. My reputation is known in more than just Clover Way so I do get patrons from other parts of the city."
Ashley attempts to use diplomacy with his tone and intimidation with his body language to get Three Bits to reveal the contents of the sack but is unsuccessful due to poor posture.
Toston chimes in that the group is willing to accept the offer regardless.
Three Bits laughs, "Didn't anyone ever tell you that you will catch more flies with honey than with vinegar, Ashley dear. I can assure you that there is an item in this sack and I did find it in the purported haunted alley but I can't exactly show it to you as I estimate most of its value is visual in nature. However I do want to negotiate in good faith so I offer a compromise. Either Toston swears on his honor and his master's name that he won't damage the sack or attempt to steal or look at it's contents and he can have a feel or I show all of you what I scraped off from the item on my dagger. This did not damage the item nor does it compromise its visual value. Though you could always take me at my word. Your choice."
You're conversation with Three Bits is interrupted abruptly as an old man with a white beard and mustache followed by well dressed halfling with curly brown hair and green eyes exit Golden Threads.
"Old Man Jenkins! Stop you forgot to pay for that scarf! Ooold Mann Jenkins!!!" The halfling yells after the man for some time.
Right before they reach your group the old man stops and turns around, "I'm sorry, Billy. I must be going deaf and getting senile. How much do I owe you for the scarf?"
"2 gold pieces. That is imported silk." The halfling says snootily.
It looks like you have found the last 2 people Wendy mentioned when you asked her about the haunting or rather they found you. Regardless what now? Do you opt to have Three Bits show you her dagger scrapings? Should Toston give his word and tell you what he feels inside the sack instead? Do you question old man Jenkins and/or Billy about the hauntings?
Perception DC 27 Highlight to display spoiler: {"Old Man" Jenkins has cosmetically altered his appearance to appear much older than he actually is.}
Var HP:21/21 AC: 16(T:13/FF:13) CMD:18 d20+9=18 ; d20+1=10 ; d20+1=18 ; d20+4=9 ; Tuesday April 21st, 2015 10:23:28 AM
"Oh, the city above? Well that would be no trouble at all!" Var says excitedly, quickly warming to the idea of a bug-hunt.
Turning to watch the commotion coming out of the tailors (Perception: 18), Var attempts to act quickly - (bluff: 10) "Ah yes, hello Mister Jenkins!" Var points the group towards Three Bits and her Dagger and steps out to greet the two.
"I understand you two have been witness to the haunting. Could you two please tell me more about it?" (Diplomacy: 18; sense motive: 9)
Wilford Grimly (HP:18/18; AC: 14; Touch: 12; Flat: 12; CMD: 14) d20+5=19 ; Tuesday April 21st, 2015 1:36:40 PM
Perception: 19 Wil says to Var, "We have some substantial feet to dispose of the bugs." He then laughs. To Three Bits, still a bit suspicious, "Why don't you follow us to this warehouse. We are more then happy to dispose of these pests but how do we know you are not just trying to send us to a trap?" He then attempts to weigh the items in the bag with his right hand by bouncing the items from below. "We should stop the old man to corroborate the story. Maybe he will recognize this item?"
Ashley Steward [AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22] Tuesday April 21st, 2015 9:38:25 PM
Ashley just shrugs at Three Bits when she mentions that he shouldn't be so harsh with individuals in negotiation. Her opinion didn't have much value to him, other than to show him that Toston's words had done more for the situation than his had. He shakes his head when she mentions Toston making a vow.
"Nay, he shouldn't be doing that just for my suspicions. Show us this dagger of yours, and then we'll be on with it."
He watches the commotion with Old Man Jenkins and Billy, but doesn't interfere, instead turning his attention back to the woman.
Talanthrel (Paul) [HP 21/21; AC 17; Touch 14; Flat 13; Cmd17] d20+5=16 ; d20+5=15 ; Tuesday April 21st, 2015 9:40:30 PM
Talanthrel grins at the interplay between Billy and Old Man Jenkins not noticing anything of note.(Perception=16) Seeing that Var was questioning the two Talanthrel takes a couple of step back not feeling comfortable with so many people in his personal space and keeps a watch on what is going on around and in the group. (Perception=15)
Toston Lotor [HP: 14/14; AC 18; Touch 14; FF 14; CMD 16] d20+9=29 ; Tuesday April 21st, 2015 9:43:54 PM
Toston listens to Ashley speaking on his behalf, starts to speak up, and then realizes that perhaps he shouldn't be making such promises such as the one Three Bits was asking for. Still, if they were going to be working with Three Bits in the future, it didn't hurt to foster some good will by showing some co-operation. Toston steps forward, looking up at Three Bits as he speaks.
"I have no qualms with agreeing to not abscond the item from you until our deal has been completed, should you allow me a tactile inspection of it."
When the Old Man Jenkins situation comes barging up to them, he gives the Old Man and Billy a detailed look, surmising Old Man Jenkins' ruse while he's at it.
"Old Man Jenkins? I don't see how you could call him an old man, he certainly isn't!"
The monk makes it seem like he is musing to himself, but he speaks loud enough for all to hear.
Avin Fellows HP:17/17 AC:13 Flat:10 Touch:13 Tuesday April 21st, 2015 11:29:40 PM
Avin looks about, distracted by the apparent chaos of the scene. Too many moving variables, it would be too easy to miss something important. The wizard is quite certain that he is helpless to avoid that much anyway.
"The dagger," he says, "Show us these scrapings you have and then we might do your task.
DM Hugh (on loan from Humble's) - I understand you two have been witness to the haunting... d20+11=28 ; d20+11=29; d20+9=28 ; d20+11=13 Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 3:05:54 AM Talenthrel grins at the interplay between old man Jenkins and Billy. He then takes a step back and scopes out the group and their surroundings.
Var excitedly says, "Oh, the city above? Well that would be no trouble at all!" before turning toward the commotion coming out of the tailor's. Var points the group towards Three Bits and her Dagger and steps out to greet the two. He then says to the old man and tailor, "Ah yes, hello Mister Jenkins! "I understand you two have been witness to the haunting. Could you two please tell me more about it?"
The pair have mixed reactions to Var's question.
Billy looks up at the ranger and says with disdain, "An Adventurer. How quaint. Still maybe one such as yourself is what this haunting needs. Very well, I will tell you about it, but I don't have all day. I have to get back to the shop. These clothes won't sell themselves and this miscreant population is likely to abscond with my wares in my absence. The cretins! About a few weeks ago I started to feel strange vibrations in the floors and walls of my shop. Generally these happen after hours when I am alone and they are fairly sporadic in nature. I didn't know what to think at first then everyone else in the quarter was abuzz with these strange light and noise rumors so maybe the vibrations are the work of the ghosts as well? Regardless someone has to do something about this ghost problem. It is scaring away a large chunk of my customers. It is completely bad for business."
Old man Jenkins gives Billy the two gold he was clamoring about and then says to Var, "I used to be an adventurer like you until I got arthritis in my knees. I saw a ghost. The apparition appeared in this very corridor not 5 feet from where we stand now. It was a sign. The spirits are restless, They have spoken to me and they want people to stay away from Clover Way in order to appease them." Sence Motive DC 13 Highlight to display spoiler: {He did not in fact used to be an adventuer}
Sense Motive DC 28 Highlight to display spoiler: {Old Man Jenkins is lying about having seen the ghost and about speaking with ghosts.}
After receiving old man Jenkin's gold Billy says, "You have heard all I have to say about it. If you will excuse me I have my money, I need to get back to my shop." Billy goes back to Golden Threads
Wil says to Var, "We have some substantial feet to dispose of the bugs." He then laughs. To Three Bits, still a bit suspicious, "Why don't you follow us to this warehouse. We are more then happy to dispose of these pests but how do we know you are not just trying to send us to a trap?" He then tries to lay his hand on the sack that is tucked away amid a myriad of pouches and other such containers at Three Bits belt but she nimbly dodges away,
"Don't be grabby Wilford. Your name is not Toston. What would your mother think of you trying to lay your paws on a woman without her permission, especially when you claim to have helped other women with these types of unwanted advances in the past." Three Bits chastises Wil. Will then suggests "We should stop the old man to corroborate the story. Maybe he will recognize this item?" Three Bits says, "You are taking a lot of liberties with what is currently my item. I will agree to no such thing and your behavior is making me second guess this deal."
Ashley watches the commotion between old man Jenkins and Billy but keeps his attention on Three Bits. He shrugs at her admonishment and then says in regards to her Toston suggestion, "Nay, he shouldn't be doing that just for my suspicions. Show us this dagger of yours, and then we'll be on with it."
Avin feels helpless in all the commotion. Something is bound to be overlooked. "The dagger," he says, "Show us these scrapings you have and then we might do your task.
Toston almost let Ashley's words convince him against it but decides that if it will help the group he will agree to Three Bit's deal. He tells her this.
Three Bits responds "Toston, that will not be necessary. Wil's overeagerness has removed that option from the table. I will still show you my dagger but this deal is in danger of falling through." She then removes her dagger from up her sleeve and holds it up to the light for visual inspection. You notice a few small flecks of bright vibrant yellow paint on the edge.
Toston then says in regards to old man Jenkins, "Old Man Jenkins? I don't see how you could call him an old man, he certainly isn't!"
"I am old. It is you who are mistaken. You are a gnome, your race ages slower than mine I don't see how you are qualified to judge my age." Old man Jenkins replies, questioning Toston's judgement. Sense Motive DC 29 Highlight to display spoiler: {Old man jenkins is lying about his age.} "I have to go too. I need to visit with someone." Old man Jenkins begins walking away from the group in the opposite direction of Billy.
It is still early afternoon. Much has just happened. What do you do now?
Var HP:21/21 AC: 16(T:13/FF:13) CMD:18 d20+9=24 ; d20+4=19 ; Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 5:24:28 PM
(Sense Motive: 19) Var looks at Old Man Jenkins suspiciously but lets him go on his way.
After the Billy and the Old man part ways, Var turns back to Three Bits and inspects the dagger (perception: 24). "Three Bits, what do you know about Jenkins?"
Talanthrel (Paul) [HP 21/21; AC 17; Touch 14; Flat 13; Cmd17] d20=1 ; Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 8:53:56 PM
Talanthrel accepts Old man Jenkins statement of being an retired adventurer without qualms (sense motive=1). He then raises an eyebrow at Will's, seeming attempt at molesting Three Bits. Though he is slightly disappointed at her mild response.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:14/14; AC:18; Touch: 18; FF:14; CMD:16] - CMTC d20+1=21 ; d20+7=15 ; Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 9:27:46 PM
Toston tries to diffuse the situation. "Three Bits, If I may. Wilford was not trying to attack your virtue. He merely was most likely trying to get a feel for how much the item weighs. I know you did not invite him to do this but he is a little off his game at the moment. The voices of the spirits are silent for him which is odd because Jenkins, I refuse to call him old man, said the spirits talk to him, though if he is making himself look older than he is and he is lying about the fact that he used to be an adventurer(Sense Motive 15) so maybe he isn't telling the truth about that but I couldn't get a good read on that statement so I don't know. I do know that he called me a liar and I saw what I saw. Anyway if we depart for the warehouse in the Backstab quarter post haste and allow you to chose whether you come with us or we rendezvous after the extermination is done to get the item do we have an agreement? I don't know what the significance of the shiny yellow paint could be so I am curious to know what the paint was used on." (Diplomacy 21 = natural 20)
Wilford Grimly (HP:18/18; AC: 14; Touch: 12; Flat: 12; CMD: 14) d20+5=22 ; d20+5=21 ; Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 10:23:45 PM
Sense Motive: 22 - Perception: 21 Wil embarrassed at his impulsive move or maybe clarity would dictate that it was a lack of patience. He was still like an impulsive boy which at one time was controlled by the not-so-gentle nagging of his mother. The missing connection to the spirit world was unsettling but so was the scene in front of him. So many untruths masked in makeup and magic. Within moments his embarrassment passed at he spoke carefully. "I've grown up a thief and a savior. Sometimes at the same time. I live amongst the Grubbers. The thieves and the killers. This place, below the world I know, is unsettling and I ask the group to decide on our fate." Wil looked at the dagger and the yellow paint. He tried to glean other facts from the scene. "A dagger with yellow paint just shows that you have stabbed a paint bucket." He then added. "Information broker, I do not intend ill will or insult but if you need this favor completed then I beg we leave this retched place."
Ashley Steward [AC: 17, Touch: 10, Flat: 17, HP 22/22] d20+3=14 ; Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 10:43:12 PM
Ashley rubs his temples between his thumb and middle finger, obviously growing tired of the ongoing negotiations with Three Bits, and the Old Man Jenkins fiasco of calling Toston a liar. The human sighs, looking about to see if there are any others that are taking an interest in their protracted conversation with the woman, and then speaks to his companions.
"I believe it's time we head to this warehouse. We're not getting anywhere further with this."
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