AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Monday March 2nd, 2015 8:26:31 PM " I'll make a trip to the catacombs for an axe while you guys do whatever investigating you want in the Quartermaster's office." If there is nothing else, Jasper heads to the catacombs. ( posted there yesterday, waiting for a clerk)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+12=26 ; Monday March 2nd, 2015 9:34:26 PM "Excellent!" Nikolai exclaims when William agrees to impersonate an accountant. "Here's the had. Best practice in front of us some before you head out. We can tell you were to adjust your looks. Now remember, you'll look like someone, but you will sound the same o'l William, so work on a chance in voice too. And if someone touches you, they will feel whatever you are wearing, not what you are portraying, so be careful not to brush up against anyone."
Nikolai wants his Fist to keep busy, so, while Jasper goes to the Catacombs and William does some book inventory inspection, he suggests that they take a trip around the outside of the Citadel and take note of the buildings that could be used as front, like armories, weapons smiths, empty warehouses, and so forth.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+12=18 ; Monday March 2nd, 2015 10:09:21 PM
Michael helps look around for places to hide the contraband. It seems like the crew has a good plan, so he goes with it.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Monday March 2nd, 2015 10:50:43 PM
Pru is reading over the file.
"I'd like to speak with the interrogators," she says. "They spent some time with the prisoners. Maybe they heard something or noticed something we could use."
Remembering what happened when she tried to talk to Qualtime, Pru adds, "And I'd like to not go in a big herd. Somebody can come with me if you don't like me going alone, but let's not all go trampling over there, okay?"
DM Warren Tuesday March 3rd, 2015 11:43:00 AM
Nikolai and William practice their accountant act. If only they had met the man it would be easier to imitate his demeanor. Still, the hat will do a lot of the work. William makes his way to Q's office, ready to ask what questions he may. Q, busy as always, looks up from her desk and notices him standing there, seeming a bit annoyed at the interruption. Can I help you? It's a bit early for the quarterly accounting meeting.
Meanwhile, Pru corrals one of her fellows into going to the dungeons to speak with the staff there, while Jasper does some shopping and Nikolai and William inspect the grounds. They find what you would expect to grow up around the Base of a military operation. Laundry, smiths, taverns, farriers, and other businesses that are necessary to support such an organization, as well as the homes of the workers and their families. Any number of them could be potential fronts, but are more likely just the ordinary homes and businesses of the citizens who live here.
AC 18 T14 F14 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday March 3rd, 2015 1:12:35 PM
Tinker gets his hear ready for a whirlwind trip to several nearby cities.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) d20+9=11 ; d20+9=18 ; Tuesday March 3rd, 2015 6:45:30 PM
Pru asks to speak with the interrogators. "We've been assigned to do a follow-up report on the theft of supplies," she says. She strongly implies, but does not outright say, that she's been assigned the tedious task as punishment of some kind.
She asks the interrogators whether they noticed anything unusual or out of the ordinary about the prisoners. Did they mention any names? Any places? What, if anything, did they say about the gang's overall plan? Do you (the interrogators) think there is something that the higher-ups may have missed? or not paid enough attention to?
General all-purpose Diplomacy check: 18 (Used a Hero point to re-roll)
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 Tuesday March 3rd, 2015 9:06:28 PM
In an officious tone, William explains that he is here to audit the books as a surprise inspection. If the quartermaster acts surprised, William shrugs and says something about how the quartermaster office was notified in the latest bulletin #3567.1 and if they didn't read it, then it's not William's fault. He adds that regulation 2.4.5 version A.2 says clearly that surprise audits will occur and any attempts to delay them will be viewed as potential guilt or attempt to hide something, per regulation 2.56.9 version G.5. Also, bulletin 4691.1 that came out two weeks ago notified all staff to be prepared and if Q isn't prepared for the audit, then that's her fault. Finally, if she doesn't like that, she is welcome to file form 546.5A and it would be reviewed per a time period commensurate with regulation 891.36 version A.6.
Once he's thoroughly buried her with names and forms and bulletin numbers, he'll do his inspection (hopefully without her watching over his shoulder and if she does, he'll delay long enough until she's bored and wanders off), looking to see how they match up with what's on hand, especially those items that were reported missing, high value items, easily moved items, etc.
(Yes, I'm ashamed to say I've both done and been through ISO 9000 and QS9000 and GAAP audits before. Luckily now that I'm at a church, we don't have to worry about that... )
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+12=19 ; d20+17=35 ; Tuesday March 3rd, 2015 10:34:42 PM
OOC: I don't know if I am awed or horrified by the fact that you have done these audits. my blood runs cold and my guts are filled with ice water at the thought.
Michael gets to thinking about movement of material.
How many gates does the citadel have? are they all watched? if any are not watched he sneaks in and sprinkles a light dusting of flower near the door to about 4ft out at all the non-watched gates. if they are all watched, are all entrances and exits logged? if they are logged, doing a traffic analysis vs departure of materials could reveal clues as to who the mule is. if all of the major traffic comes through the main gate, setting someone to co-log traffic through the gate clandestinely for a few days by simple number, then comparing the two logs might give a clue if the gate guard is complicit in the act. failing all of that, inspection of the walls for cracks or passages through would be in order, as well inspecting for tunnels into the citadel may be of value too.
Hey William, can your earth elemental find tunnels? Michael asks him once he is back from his QM audit.
perception 19 stealth 35 (I'm a ninja!) for placing the flour unobserved.
the other stuff is conjecture for the group to decide upon, and the DM to supply information on.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Tuesday March 3rd, 2015 11:05:06 PM
Jasper returns from the catacombs and immediately heads to a workshop. Once there he rigs another back sheathe for this second war axe, one that hides the head so that it isn't obvious that it is made of Alchemical Silver.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Tuesday March 3rd, 2015 11:34:32 PM
Once back from his inspection walk, Nikolai writes down the buildings of note. With his team split up, he decides to make a trip to the Catacombs himself.
OOC: going to buy some potions of Protection from Evil.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Wednesday March 4th, 2015 12:49:48 AM
OoC: Checking
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) d20=17 ; Wednesday March 4th, 2015 8:49:25 AM
Alongside Pru, Zieluviet is willing to help her gather whatever information the interrogators are willing (or not) to share. His first thoughts are on how well they will recall the prisoner's, then guess if, in case they don't tell enough, if they don't know or can't tell.
"Prudence, I'll back you up. Something bothers me, however... If they executed the prisoners, they must have a very reliable archive of everything that matters. If this doesn't get results, I may attempt to sneak in and search for this archive. Or we can ask a Halfling." Ziel whispers to Pru.
(Discerning the interrogator's behavior. Sense Motive: 17+2 = 19 / forgot the Wis bonus in the roller)
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 Wednesday March 4th, 2015 10:42:25 AM
William responds after the audit to Michael, Yes I think he can but it would be hard to keep quiet our summoning and using him "
DM Warren Wednesday March 4th, 2015 6:37:25 PM
@Pru and Ziel: The master of the dungeons is simply known as "The Gaoler." He is a gnome that was hired on while very young and just stuck around until he was eventually put in charge of anyone that needed to be locked up. I don't know much about interrogation techniques. I just let the questioner in and out and kept the ratmen locked up. I do remember a lot of yelling, but it didn't sound like he got much out of the prisoners before deciding he was done and sending them to the executioner's block. The gnome seems honest enough, if not the smartest fellow around. There is no evidence of him mistreating his prisoners. The cells you can see are neat and clean, if spartan in their furnishings.
@William: Qualtmie isn't impressed. Her records are meticulously kept and always ready for inspection, regardless of whether the accountant has paid the courtesy of scheduling an appointment. What exactly are you looking for today? If you tell me exactly what you need I can put hands on the right ledger in two jiffs. As you should know from our previous inspections. She seems a bit put out by you throwing off her work pattern. Please roll a bluff check
@Michael: Michael spends his time sneaking around, watching the traffic go in an out of the gates. There are only two gates large enough to accommodate wagons, and each is manned by several guards at all hours of the day, and no traffic is allowed in or out of these gates at night. He contemplates searching the entry and exit records, but those are likely in Q's books as well. He is sneaky enough to nick some flour, avoid notice, and place it in front of the pedestrian gates, though there is enough traffic that it would take an expert tracker to make any sense of the prints. He awaits William's reply to his question after he finishes his sneaking about.
@Jasper and Nikolai: Jasper and Nikolai do some additional preparations, making their best guesses as to what they will be facing. Jasper, please make a craft and bluff check if you are trying to functionally disguise your new sheath.
AC 18 T14 F14 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+7=16 ; Wednesday March 4th, 2015 7:29:12 PM
Tinker is pretty much at a loss of what to do. He had thought that the Fist was going to other cities first and was getting ready. Over dinner, the dwarf finds out that everyone else divided up and checked out the various areas of the Citadel first. Tinker scowls at himself. For someone so good with locks and puzzles, he is really bad at talking and listening to people. That evening, he will try to haunt the Last Assignment, not really hoping to hear any rumors that may help. After all, if the officers were keeping the rats hush-hush, there shouldn't be any rumors among the troopers...
Know Local 16
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Wednesday March 4th, 2015 8:13:51 PM
"Well, thank you," Pru says, taking careful note of what the gaoler said. "May we speak to the questioner, please?"
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 d20=6 ; d20+4=23 ; Wednesday March 4th, 2015 8:44:11 PM
William is non-plussed and responds curtly, "A surprise inspection is just that, a surprise. And if you've forgotten, policy 356.2 paragraph 3 specifically says that on surprise audits we may view whichever materials we wish to view. And paragraph 4.1 details that we are not obligated to specify what we wish to look at. ALL materials must be available and any hinderance to our audit is, per policy 356.78, a punishable offense with up to 1 year in the stockade and loss of rank as the penalty. And demanding that we tell you what we want to see is a violation of that policy, and if you see paragraph A.3 of that aforementioned policy, you'll see that spelled out. So where are your books? When I'm done viewing them and inspecting your warehouse, I'll ask you any questions that I choose to ask."
(Oh gracious DM, surely I get a bonus for the gibberish that I'm throwing at her. Accountants are some of the best at beauracratic policies and procedures....?)
Bluff - 6 (+ a bonus for those 2 solid, posts filled with policies and procedures???) Know (GAAP or ISO9002) = 23 (OK, that's a good roll, so certainly a bonus to my bluff for knowing the rules and regs???? Throw me a bone here oh mighty gracious DM)...
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+7=25 ; d20=16 ; Wednesday March 4th, 2015 10:00:28 PM
OOC not trying to hide the sheath so much as the blade it holds. IC Craft weaponsmithing 25 Bluff 16 Satisfied that his new weapon will pass muster he slings it on his back, next to his normal axe. He then goes to look for his Fistmates back in the Barracks.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Wednesday March 4th, 2015 11:21:31 PM
OOC: lots of ice and sleet tonight here in Dallas. May loose power over night due to ice on trees. Just a heads up in case you don't hear from me in a few days. :}
IC: Nikolai is satisfied that they are doing their best here at the Citadel before heading out. It is a long shot to find out something Captain Palance didn't, or couldn't, but you never know.
He returns to the barracks with his potions of Protection from Evil. Like the Catacombs janitor said, it would have been a better investment for the money to get a wand, but he didn't want his Fist to have to get in line for a dose while in the middle of combat. One gulp and six of his Fist can be protected at once, trusting their new cleric can have the spell memorized for himself.
Nikolai then goes to the kitchens to get trail rations ordered for everyone for their trip the next day and then to the stables to reserve horses for each one as well. That done, he heads back to the barracks and makes sure everything is packed good and tight.
"To that fabulous chocolate producing city tomorrow. Should be fun," he tells his Fist-mates.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) d20+12=21 ; d20+12=14 ; d20+12=32 ; Thursday March 5th, 2015 12:00:04 AM
Ziel walks around the room, corridor and inspects the cells again. He's determined to find something useful in here while helping Pru by picking suspicious points in other's statements.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Thursday March 5th, 2015 2:47:40 PM " Why do you keep mentioning this chocolate? Is there something I am missing? Are they affected by chocolate too?" Jasper seems very put out. This is alot of unfamiliar things for him to take in and process all at once, and his mind doesn't move a fast as it used to. Silver weapons, wolfsbane, chocolates and men turning into rats is all very hard to keep straight. That and they would be riding horses. This caused new levels of concern for the dwarf. Horses were for pulling carts, not riding. How his son managed to ride BEARS was another thing that concerned him, but not as much as riding a horse and falling off and breaking a hip did.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Thursday March 5th, 2015 5:01:52 PM just before this started an agent for the Sargrass plains power contacted us. actually he whisked us away to his extra dimensional ship floating on the grass, no seriously...hear me out. He is the historian for the power, chronicling the lives of the people of the Sargrass plains, whom the Power calls his own. The Power thinks that it is not eternal, merely immortal, so it wants a record of his peoples lives so that the eternal powers will know that they lived and lived well. Anyway. the historian, spends every waking moments weaving a tapestry of his peoples lives. but he was mortal once, and had some Chocolate from Wedding City that he still thinks about to this day. If we get him some chocolate he will make us items from Steelgrass!
DM Warren Thursday March 5th, 2015 5:53:30 PM Tinker is trying to find a way for his skillset to be useful and decides that he would be most useful keeping his ears open to any gossip that may be finding its way around. Unfortunately, he doesn't hear anything that seems to relate to the rats they're seeking. Though in this case, that's probably a good thing.
Pru asks the Gaoler for an interview with the man in charge of questioning the prisoners. There's no regular questioner, as we don't have much need for one in general. This one was involved in the capture of the rats, I believe. A Dwarf by the name of Sergeant Helmbane if I recall correctly. I'm not in charge of his schedule, so you'll have to seek him out if you want to talk to him.
Ziel's inspection of the cells backs up what the Gaoler is telling them. There is not much questioning done here. Most prisoners are only in to sleep off some extra liquor that they couldn't quite handle, and the occasional criminal goes off to trial, rather than face questioning in their cells.
William fidgets a little and his voice shakes with his nerves as he rattles off more numbers and regulations to try to throw Q off of her game. Maybe if she didn't work within these policies on a daily basis, it would be more effective. Strangely though, she seems to relax a bit. I only ask what information you're looking for so I can direct your search more efficiently. I would never withhold information from you, especially after you were so helpful before. She winks at William, perhaps not knowing exactly who she's dealing with, but certainly on the right track. Perhaps this is as expected, since Constance did say that Q would be fully cooperative, since she has as much interest in rooting out the rats as anyone else in the Fist.
Once she has an idea of which information is most relevant, she hands him a ledger of recent transactions that was prepared by one of her clerks. For William Highlight to display spoiler: {careful review of the ledger shows some very well hidden discrepancies. Once you uncover the pattern, it becomes easy to spot where certain items have gone missing and were covered up in the books. It seems that a greater than average amount of the missing material have been from missions involving Sergeant Helmbane's Fist.}
@Jasper: ooc: sorry, i meant weapon, not sheath - please make a note of your craft check on your sheet.
Jasper and Nikolai complete their preparation for the journey that is planned. Nikolai is excited to try some of the delicacies produced in wedding city, and it making sure he has enough coin to load up extra for the old man in the tapestry. That should be a fun tale to tell to Jasper on the way there!
AC 18 T14 F14 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday March 5th, 2015 8:12:11 PM
Tinker readies to travel tomorrow, even sneaking some apples to his pony. That night he tes the others that the rat men still seem to be a secret In The Citadel
"Ready to go!"
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 Thursday March 5th, 2015 8:52:05 PM
William winks back at Q and smiles at her, "Ma'am, you've been very helpful and I'll make sure to let your superior officer know. You passed the inspection with flying colors and form 367.13 will be filed to show just that."
After he leaves the office, he shares with the others, "Friends, I saw in the journal entries and ledger balances that a greater than average number of items tended to go missing or were covered up from missions related to Sergeant Helmsbane's Fist. It would be worth reading his after action reports to see where those missions took place, who was involved, etc. Of course he's sure that the Sergeant, if he is the guilty party, wrote them to cover his own tracks. But it might still provide some useful information."
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Thursday March 5th, 2015 9:12:48 PM "Did he serve with this other Sergeant that you ended up killing when you foiled the last theft ring? Could he be a wererat?"
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) d20+5=16 ; Friday March 6th, 2015 12:25:00 AM
Zieluviet is disappointed for not finding anything, but satisfied for sure that there's nothing to be find here. Returning to Pru's company, he gets updated with the new named subject.
"Sounds familiar even to me... high chances that Prudence has something to tell."
"Prudence, have you got any information about this Sergeant Helmbane? I'm guessing that's our next move. To Captain Palance's office?"
As Ziel starts walking, he tries to imagine the interrogation, but everything from the wererats to the betrayers to the fact that one stranger got the last information from the prisoners and then they're silenced forever, without this information making to the archives as it's confidential, then the people who are working on it don't have the intel. It's an unfavorable scenario. Everything is so messed up that even Ziel's current abstract thoughts seem to make more sense.
"We could also ask Jasper. You know, he's a Dwarf and aged on the trade. Actually, we could ask anyone. Oh, right. We'd better ask him personally. And if he doesn't answer properly, we can proceed to the backup plan."
-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~- Knowledge (Local): 16 Any info on Helmbane?
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Friday March 6th, 2015 4:40:51 AM wasn't Helmbane one of the sargents along with Timmerick to lead the agents when this fist was first formed? My old sargent talked about it once.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+7=22 ; Friday March 6th, 2015 12:36:42 PM
OOC Is he THAT old? Wow, if he is I might actually know something. I'll put a profession soldier check in this post, since it is our go to knowledge about the Fist skill, along with Knowledge local, to see if I do, saving the DM's a step. Profession soldier 22, not too shabby for an old guy.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Friday March 6th, 2015 1:15:15 PM
"Sergeant Helmbane was one of our sergeants when we first graduated from training," Pru tells Zieluviet. "We were a double-Fist; four of us under Sergeant Trimmack, and the other four under Sergeant Helmbane. I'm not sure whether Sergeant Helmbane is even at the Citadel anymore, but we can check."
Pru looks unhappy. "The last time we spoke with him, Sergeant Helmbane seemed....changed. Nothing I could put my finger on, but he was different." [OOC: It's hard, from a player's perspective, to know whether Helmbane's changed attitude is a clue, or just the result of changing DMs.]
AC 18 T14 F14 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday March 6th, 2015 3:22:19 PM
Tinker is also unhappy about hearing one of their former sergeant's names. "I was with Sergeant Trimmack , and Sergeant Helmbane seemed to not like playing second to the younger human, but was a good guy."
"William, you were under Sgt Helmbane; were the times listed the same times that he was our leader? If so, I bet someone wants to discredit us. "
DM Warren Friday March 6th, 2015 5:12:34 PM
The Agents get together and share what information they've managed to uncover. Between them, they remember different experiences serving under Sergeant Helmbane or Sergeant Trimmack.
The original Agents also recount to the new members of some trouble regarding Sergeant Helmbane, some younger recruits, and gambling debts, as well as treatment of women that is unacceptable from anyone, especially someone of his rank. Jasper has been around long enough to hear similar rumours about Helmbane, and validate that at one point he was brought up on some disciplinary charges, though since then he's seemed to have kept his nose clean.
The only question now is what to do with this information.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Friday March 6th, 2015 9:32:17 PM Could we, I dont know, find this Helmbane and maybe give him some food with silver in it or something and see if it makes him turn? It seems to me a lot of things are revolving around him, and not in a flattering way. We need to know what he knows.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Friday March 6th, 2015 11:54:42 PM
Ziel asks. "Are we off to find him? Captain Palance or Qualtmie should be able to point where."
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 Saturday March 7th, 2015 8:37:53 AM
William agrees that they should find this Helmbane character and ask him some questions. However, it's going to be hard to remain inconspicuous once they start grilling him, unless they are direct with their interrogation or if they have some good excuse to talk to him...
He suggests they follow Ziel's idea and ask the Captain for info on Helmbane's whereabouts...
AC 18 T14 F14 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Saturday March 7th, 2015 10:05:00 AM
"It would not be hard to talk to Sergeant Helmbane. Just invite him to the barracks for a reunion and dinner. When he is here, we confront him with everything and look for his answers
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Saturday March 7th, 2015 11:08:18 AM "Sounds good, Tinker. We might as well plan some 'bait topic' before we question the matter to see if Helmbane is being serious and honest. And, by the way, what kind of person is he?"
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Saturday March 7th, 2015 5:08:16 PM
"Yes, that is a good idea," Pru agrees. "Why don't I go to the Last Assignment and see if they're willing to provide the dinner?"
If her Fist-mates are amenable, Pru goes to speak with the cooking staff at the Last Assignment.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Sunday March 8th, 2015 12:02:25 PM
Jasper listens to the plans, but wonders about the automatic assumption of guilt. This Sergeant is a Dwarf and a former commanding non-commissioned officer in charge of the group. Do they think that little of him? Dwarves are not generally known for their guile. Jasper voices a slight change to the plan. " If I might Sir? While you do that, I will visit the hall of records and see whether this Sergeant Helmbane and the Sergeant you killed as a wererat, Sergeant Holdfast have any common postings. You were afraid that the inclusion of Sergeant Helmbane would implicate you, but maybe this Helmbane is another thorn in their side, or an innocent they are using to draw you into the open. They watch him and when you "pick him up" They know who is after them. An attack at that point that kills you and him could clear them to work for months more without interference, with the Knight Captain thinking that you got the theif and that he ended up killing you at the same time." "Sir, with your permission I will go to the Hall of Records and check on their postings and get some information to use in questioning Helmbane while you set up the venue. I think having information on the postings where supplies went missing might make it easier to determine if he is telling us the truth or if he is taking supplies." "Also, if we delay this interrogation until tomorrow, I can prepare a prayer to determine the truth in his statements. It will also affect us, so we will also be limited to telling the truth. Just so you know ahead of time."
AC 18 T14 F14 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Sunday March 8th, 2015 1:13:24 PM
Tinker is confused by the older dawrf's thinking. "Who said we thought Sergeant Helmbane was a wererat? I said invite him to dinner and tell him what we know; his illegal gambling, the records if lost items, and his intimidation of female troopers. And he has the opportunity to tell us what he knows before we take it all to the Captain."
"Unless he brings it up, we don't say anything about rat", the dwarf grumps, scowling at even the hint that Tinker would not be loyal to a former Sergeant and comrade.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Sunday March 8th, 2015 4:01:01 PM
Jasper just gives up and turns to his bunk and takes the few items that would be remaining here out of his kit and sets them up. He makes up his bunk and then heads off to one workshop or another to work on something he is familiar with.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Sunday March 8th, 2015 4:02:13 PM "Hey, hey" Ziel exclaims. "In my opinion, Helmbane can't be on the wererats' side. But he's probably caught in some web of treachery." He closes one fist then cover it with the other palm. "I just pointed the fact that he knows some facts of assumed secrecy and yet that this group, being the one under charge of this matter, still doesn't know the outcome of the interrogation, except that the prisoners were executed, and this hardly means that the secrets can't be spread. Actually, I would prefer them to be. Hate to see those bits of stories get buried."
AC 18 T14 F14 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Sunday March 8th, 2015 7:47:22 PM
Tinker harumphs again, somewhat mollified by Zieluviet's explanation. He worries a little about the older dwarf leaving because companions are, to the young dwarf's mind, supposed to stick together. Yet Tinker lets him go because, again because of his own training, battle mates also don't force each other to do anything.
He will wait to see what Nikolai says.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Monday March 9th, 2015 9:50:27 AM
OOC: sorry, looks like i missed a post. Feel asleep at the keyboard. :(
IC: Nikolai finally chimes in. "I do find it odd that Sgt. Helmbane was in charge of the questioning and I don't see the results of that questioning in this packet. You'd think that whatever they said would be in here. Unless they just didn't say anything. Sgt. Helmbane was one of our sergeants in charge during our first assignment. Meeting up with him for a casual dinner shouldn't cause any suspicions, and as long as we can keep it private, we can try to pry some info out of him. But it would seem that the Captain should know the same thing. I want to ask the Captain what she knows, then we can compare it with what Sgt. Helmbane tells us. Hopefully it matches up.
So the question is, do we continue with our plan to head to Wedding City tomorrow or postpone that trip for the day after? Perhaps it best to continue with our plans to visit Wedding City, then catch up with Sgt. Helmbane when return. I can go now and find out where the sergeant is stationed."
So Nikolai heads off to check the duty roster and find out where Sgt. Helmbane is stationed and if he's scheduled to be assigned anywhere else anytime soon.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+7=24 ; Monday March 9th, 2015 12:29:05 PM
Jasper's walk is at first hurried as he heads away from the barracks. Fool children, how can they think to question someone without having any facts to use on them? He keeps chewing this concept over in his mind and looks up to find that he isn't in one of the workshops but at the edge of the field where the new Bear Calvary is being trained. He sees an instructor leading a class on how to properly cinch the armor and saddle of a warbear. Jasper watches the class and finally sees what his heart was looking for. In the back, nearest the wall is Agate Steelfist, his son. The bear nuzzles the young dwarf as the rider checks and rechecks his straps. Quite obviously Agate has used all of his time out in the woods and put it to use here with the bear that will carry him into combat. What if the armor for the bears is damaged and can't be replaced because of low supplies? What happens in the field if the meat sent for the bears is spoiled and they go hungry? What if the bigger and stronger part of this unit, the bears, is somehow sidelined because they are short supplied? The response rasps from Jasper's throat in a voice he didn't remember he still possessed. " What happens then Jasper is yer boy goes into the meat grinder to try and complete a mission at half strength. You know that so well because when you were short men from losses the Fist had no more to send you. You were told to 'make due' and complete the contract. But your boys were hard, and were fighting a foe they had hated since they were placed in their mommies arms, still wet from birthing. No way they would have pulled out without proof that every greenskin was dead and you know it, so they made due and did their duty. Will yer boy do that. Flower as my witness he will, because he won't let his old man down, even if it kills him." " Curse those kids back in the barracks for fools and curse yourself for walking away and sulking. You know that the information is what you'll need when they talk to this Helmbane. A dwarf that knows he can outlast his questioners will never talk, not in a timeline they can use. It'll be like them trying to erode a stone with just water. It's possible if you have the years to put into it. The information on his postings, on people hurt because of his gambling ring, of abuses they say he is guilty of. Those things are the garnet sand in the water that speeds up the erosion and will loosen the man's tongue. And you know where all of that was kept back in the day. It worked then so why would the Fist change it." Jasper stops muttering and starts walking. Soon he finds himself in front of the hall of records and goes inside. Jasper looks for and makes notes of... Sergeant Helmbane's career. The with whom, when, where, and why of his postings as far back as Jasper can find. Sergeant Holdfast's postings, looking for all of the same information. Information on gambling in the Fist. Where rings were discovered, who was involved, what punishments were handed down. Information that reflects the gambling reports in places and at times Helmbane was stationed there. Historic treatment of female troopers and complaints they have lodged. Profession Soldier 24
DM Warren Monday March 9th, 2015 6:45:47 PM
The Agents discuss their plans for finding Helmbane and seeing what insight he may be able to provide on this investigation. Upon further review of the packet of information, the Agents do see the results of the interrogation, though they may have overlooked them at first. The report is minimal, only stating that the prisoners refused to talk and that they were scheduled to be executed at the earliest convenience. Sergeant Helmbane's prepared the report, but he did not specify that he carried out the questioning.
Highlight to display spoiler: {If you read back, it says that the Gaoler's opinion was that the questioning was minimal and harsh. }
Palance indeed can tell the Agents where and when Sgt. Helmbane is scheduled to be, but Nikolai knows that the duty roster will be an easier way to find out without broadcasting their intentions to anyone. He is currently stationed at the Citadel, training new recruits during the day and free in the evenings.
Jasper has a personal reason that he wants to see this thieving ring taken down. No way he is going to let his youngest go into battle without the best possible equipment. He is able to confirm what the other Agents remembered of Sgt. Helmbane's transgressions: gambling, mistreatment of troopers, abuse of power...However, he has already been formally reprimanded. He is no longer in charge of training any female recruits and he was made to scrub all the debts owed to him. This was in no small part due to the efforts of the Agents, who exposed him to Palance and provided the basis for her investigation.
Pru heads off to the Last Assignment to see about a special dinner. The owner isn't able to close up shop at the drop of a hat, but there is a private room in the back that can easily hold the Agents for their dinner should they wish to reserve it. The price for the room is 10gp for the night plus food, which varies depending on how rich they wish their fare to be: anywhere from 2 to 10 silver per person.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Monday March 9th, 2015 7:38:04 PM
Jasper returns to the barracks and looks for Nikolai. When he finds the thumb he reports what he found. " Sir, I went to the archives and looked for the information I thought would be needed to have the leverage necessary to make Sergeant Helmbane talk to you if he didn't want to cooperate. As it turns out you have no leverage on him. All of the things that were mentioned that he may have had a hand in he has been investigated for and reprimanded for. It seems that your group of Agents sparked an investigation that led to his reprimand. He may not be very happy to see you." Jasper then waits for any further orders. If they are still looking to go to dinner tonight to speak to the Sergeant, he will make sure to have his armor polished and he weapons, particularly his new axe, clean and ready to go, as if he would leave them any other way.
AC 18 T14 F14 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday March 9th, 2015 8:03:33 PM
Tinker silently fumes. It is true that there isn't any 'leverage' on Helsbane, that his past transgressions (other than what William has uncovered in the books) has had a conclusion, and that Helmsbane probably doesn't want to see the Agents any time soon. Being brow beaten with Jaspers assumption that there is no other possible way than Jasper's way (especially when he is right) ....
There just aren't words.
Tinker goes to the armory and works with locks, something he at least understands.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 Monday March 9th, 2015 9:07:31 PM
William is frustrated too at the lack of 'leverage' to help their investigation, but for now, he agrees that meeting him for dinner is a good plan and hopefully that will add some information...
On the other hand, he does hope that the group will remember that it's a team and work together rather than against each other... He'll do his best to keep the peace amongst the Fist...
He does ask the others if there are any spells they should have cast ahead of time, maybe something to detect lies or other magic to help them in case things go poorly...
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Monday March 9th, 2015 9:49:58 PM
Pru pays for the private room and about 8 silver per person for food. She stresses that she isn't looking for anything especially fancy, but it should be plentiful.
She returns to tell her Fist-mates what she has arranged.
When Jasper points out that they have no leverage, Pru says, "Well, then, we'll just have to ask him nicely. Which, to be honest was my plan all along." She sighs. "I miss Cameron. I'm not nearly as good at this as he was. But I think we ought to at least try."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Monday March 9th, 2015 11:24:53 PM
Having no leverage against Sgt. Helmbane apparently doesn't change things much. Nikolai is rather relieved about that anyway. He hated to see their drill sergeant in this mess but that wasn't their doing. That the sergeant wasn't the inquisitor, just in charge of the inquisition, helps some too. If Helmbane holds any grudge against Nikolai's Fist, hopefully this dinner can smooth things out with him. They owe him a lot and had no idea their own work would put him on disciplinary status. Of course, what he was doing was wrong anyway, just too bad it was this Fist that found it out. At least Helmbane wasn't going anywhere anytime soon.
"Thanks Pru, for setting the dinner up. Perhaps you can send the invitation to Sgt. Helmbane as well. He may be less likely to turn you down than one of us. This dinner will also be helpful in cementing our own new members into the Fist. We'll need a good solid group when we head out tomorrow to Wedding City."
With all that set, Nikolai makes sure his dress uniform is ready for the dinner too.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+7=16 ; Monday March 9th, 2015 11:25:25 PM
Sense Motive 16 Jasper sees Tinker's expression and knows that once again he has stepped on the other Dwarf's toes. As Tinker heads for the door Jasper steps in front of it and plant's his feet." Be better than I was a little while ago. Stay here and tell me why you are angry that I went out and got this information. Please. I'm new to your unit and don't know how you normally operate. I prefer to take as much chance out of a situation as I can. When you refused my ideas, and my request for permission to act on them, I went out angry and ready for you all to step into a pile of bear crap when you went to that meeting. I could then have sat there saying 'I told you so'. Where I found myself when I stopped walking angry and looked around was on the practice field, watching my boy put his bear through it's paces. Right then I realized if I didn't do what I could to help, whether you liked it or not, then I was letting you all down, letting the Fist down and letting my boy down. I don't want him to die on some battlefield because he didn't have rations, or the right armor or anything that the Fist should provide for him but might not if this theft ring continues. You want to stop it and finish what you started a few months back. I want to stop it because it is wrong and will get soldiers killed, maybe even my boy. So stay. Let's figure out another path and make it work." He steps aside and clears the door for Tinker. If he wants to leave, he can. Turning to William he says " William,I mentioned that I could do that if we waited until tomorrow. Is the meeting to be tonight Prudence, or another day later this week? If it is tonight and we can get a scroll, then I would be able to use a Zone of Truth to see if he lies to us. He will know that the spell is in effect and we will all need to tell the truth too. Being a dwarf he may very well resist it, leaving us to tell the truth and him to lie freely. If he is not involved he may welcome it and Prudence's honest and straight forward questions may help clear his name and may gain us an ally. I don't know him, you do. What do you all think will work?"
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Monday March 9th, 2015 11:33:27 PM You know we might be going bout this bass ackwards. If we have contact with him we risk exposing the investigation with virtually no possibility of reward. I see two roads forward. We keep Helmbane in mind as we work the cities and see if we can trace a connection back to the citadel, we were going to do this anyway. What we can add to this is perhaps a little sanctioned burglary of his domicile while he is elsewhere. We dont steal anything, but we can maybe find clues, if he is dirty, or give him a clean bill of health if he is not. The disguise cap could be used to hide the burglers true identitity if caught. The rest of the crew could post lookouts and run interference for the inside man.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Tuesday March 10th, 2015 12:17:46 AM
Ziel stretches his arms, then stands and goes to the door as he puts on the goggles.
"I'll be there. Since I'm a complete stranger to Helmbane, you may find me at a nearby table, picking up the conversation."
As he walks outside, the many disparities between Nikolai's Fist and Helmbane's history strike Zieluviet's critical sense against mercenaries. He recalls having being rude to Elijaham, but he hardly cares about it actually. It's just that Ziel is afraid of losing temper when dealing with people so different than what he expected. Palance was a surprise, but the Drow can foresee a worthy challenge in the future. His admiration for the Knight Captain is enough to claim a fair sum of his time just to imagine how it would be to test Palance's wits when strategy is to be served. She is very interesting and anything that pleases her at the moment can provide Ziel such amusement. But all this fantasy crumbles in face of the current mystery. Could the Mailed Fist be as punctured as that?
"It will collapse. Which is good. But the right people shall reunite for another call... a refined purpose... the truth."
With such thoughts bothering himself, Zieluviet goes to the watch tower at a gate. From there, he watches the Citadel as much as he can.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Tuesday March 10th, 2015 11:30:33 AM
"Well," Pru says, "I set it up for tonight, but I'm sure we can change that if we needed to. And I still say we should make sure we've found out all we can here in the Citadel before gallivanting all over the countryside."
She turns to Zieluviet. "I've set us up with a private room," she explains. "So you'll either be in there with us, or out in the common area. There's really no opportunity to hang close and just listen. I'm sorry; I didn't realize people might want to do that."
DM Warren Tuesday March 10th, 2015 7:09:06 PM
The Agents discuss various ways to go about their plans and try to predict how Sergeant Helmbane may react to being invited to a dinner and being questioned. They won't know for sure until it's done however.
@Pru Highlight to display spoiler: {Please tell me how you plan on inviting Helmbane or if you're rescheduling for another night. }
(Edited by KenM to fix spoiler headers)
Michael and Ziel favour performing more reconnaissance before anything else and are intent on watching activities at the citadel. They don't see anything that seems out of the ordinary during the day though.
Jasper and William prepare what magic they can to assist them in interrogating the Sergeant, but are not sure what the ramifications of using it will be.
Nikolai looks forward to the bonding opportunity for the Fist. Regardless of Helmbane, this will be a good chance to get to know each other in a safe environment.
Jasper is quick to realize that he needs to be more diplomatic with his new comrades instead of trying to assert his own ideas so forcefully. It can be hard to listen to others when you're old and used to dispensing advice to your children. This doesn't sit so well with Tinker, and Jasper is eager to establish a good working relationship.
Their ideas go back and forth, and all that remains is to decide on a plan of action for the evening.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Tuesday March 10th, 2015 7:30:16 PM
OOC DM Warren, I am assuming we came up with this plan after I had prayed for my spells for the day. If i can change them to have Zone of Truth for today please let me know.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 Tuesday March 10th, 2015 7:58:56 PM
William's not the diplomatic type, and he's content to stay on the edges, ready to react by summoning help if things go bad or at least keep Helmbane from doing much damage...
He continues working with Jasper on a good plan of action and possible spells to use...
AC 18 T14 F14 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday March 10th, 2015 8:04:49 PM
Tinker stands, unwilling to use force to push the older dwarf aside and Jasper says his piece. "You say that yours is the only possible way", Tinker says with lowered brows. "You are right and everyone else's ideas are wrong. You will force your will on me by standing in my way. And you are not the sergeant, you are not in charge. "
Tinker steps outside and turns back in to give a look to Nikolai, the dwarf is going to work out with his locks and will be back before they need him. He looks at the older dwarf. "You want to be my companion? Don't bully me. "
And Tinker goes to the armory.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Tuesday March 10th, 2015 9:35:23 PM " Is...is that what the rest of you think? Would it be better if I just stand here, hands at my side until you ask me to help you in some way? I am so confused."
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Tuesday March 10th, 2015 10:09:32 PM
[Pru set up the dinner for this evening. Thus far, she hasn't heard a reason to change it. So I think it's on for tonight.]
Pru looks at Jasper. "The thing is," she says, "we know Sergeant Helmbane. Some of us served under him. And--" she glances at her companions, "--and while I guess we don't exactly like him, we do respect him. He's had problems, no question. But I think he still has our respect. What we're setting up is a friendly meeting to try to get him to open up a bit because he knows us. This isn't an interrogation, and I think a Zone of Truth would be....would be kind of disrespectful. Like we don't trust him or something." She sighs. "I guess we don't trust him entirely. But let's not make that obvious, okay? We may need a Zone of Truth at some point, and I'm not saying we won't. But let's give him a chance first."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Tuesday March 10th, 2015 11:11:08 PM
Nikolai feels that it is time to step in and help out some. "This is an investigation and as such, all are suspects. If the sergeant has cleaned his act up, good. If not, we won't hold back. But playing our cards too soon will only make things far more difficult. We have our dinner but it will be just us. We celebrate our return from the swamp and a successful Mission Accomplished. Tomorrow we start our new mission. We visit the cities in question and see what we can find. We deal with the sergeant when we get back.
Jasper, you've been a leader for far more years than all of us put together, excepting Tinker. I don't know why one of such vast and long experience was assigned to such a novice group, but this is what it is, so be patient with us. By all means, do what your experience has taught you, but we are a Fist, and as such it only works when we work together. We've already found out the hard way what happens when individuals try to go it alone, whether by foolishness or rash bravery.
So let's make sure we are all on the same page. You have an idea, check it out with the Fist first if you can so we can help out, but if you can't, do what you feel needs to be done. That's the way we work," he slaps the old dwarf on the shoulder and smiles. "You'll do fine, and you will enjoy the freedom that a regular Fist does not have."
OOC: So the plan is to let Sgt. Helmbane be for now, we have our dinner tonight, and start out for Wedding City tomorrow early. That trip we have a legitimate excuse to visit and we go from there to the next. When we return we can check the books again and see maybe, if we can figure out the pattern, take up the job of delivering what we think would be the next supply targeted for pilfering, or follow it from a distance, or something in between.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Wednesday March 11th, 2015 5:13:12 PM
"Well," Pru says, "if it's just going to be us, would you guys mind kicking in a gold apiece to cover the costs?"
Privately, she still thinks it's a mistake to leave the Citadel without investigating here first, but she hopes it will all turn out for the best.
AC 18 T14 F14 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday March 11th, 2015 8:07:42 PM
Tinker locks and unlocks the simple mechanisms in the armory again and again. He will be ready to be with the team by evening, and when told, is more than happy to help with a gold piece for the special dinner.
DM Warren Wednesday March 11th, 2015 9:34:29 PM
The Agents gather in the evening in the private room in the back of the Last Assignment. It is a pleasant dinner, with richer than normal fare than is usually served in the mess hall. Many things can be solved with a little bit of social lubricant, including frayed tempers. Perhaps the group hasn't quite meshed yet, but with the issues all be in the open, they are well on their way to resolving them.
In the morning, with a fresh outlook, the Agents gather their things to travel to Wedding City. There is another fist gathering near the southern gate, making ready to depart as well. It's slower to travel with the wagons, but there is always safety in numbers, and they would not object to extra guards who are traveling in the same direction. The decision is up to Nikolai.
sorry for the lateness of the post, been laid up sick in bed all day.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Wednesday March 11th, 2015 9:57:38 PM
OOC Feel better Warren. IC Jasper is happy to chip in a gold for the private dinner. He even pays for a round or two of whatever the group is drinking. He listens to tales of their past missions, hoping to learn more about them and how to better fit in to their group.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+1=10 ; Wednesday March 11th, 2015 10:44:39 PM
Nikolai chips in his share and of the costs of the dinner and begins with a toast to the Mailed Fist and a toast to the success of their own Fist in scouting out the gnolls in the swamp and the capture of one of their leaders. He offers up one more toast to those members of their Fist that started out with them but are 'elsewhere' at the moment.
As they eat, Nikolai explains to the newcomers how they found out about the Bloodroot trees and how they work. He describes how the gnolls would capture humans, elves, dwarves, whatever, and use them as the blood price to teleport. He encourages Jasper to tell some of his stories and Zie some of his too.
After a while, when they make sure no one is listening, he offers his thinking. "We've been here almost a week. If we stick around longer, other Fists may wonder why we aren't being given an assignment. If we go visit a city first then come back and stake out the Citadel, this might let the culprits feel a false sense of security. Plus, we want to see where the stuff is going to anyway, and we need to do some market research on chocolates for our Sargrass Chronicler. Not bad getting two jobs done in one visit."
Early next morning Nikolai brings the horses around to their barracks. After a quick breakfast they get their stuff packed on their mounts and their spare pack horse. He has two ponies, one for Tinker and one for Jasper. It doesn't occur to the tall halfelf that Jasper may have difficulties on a horse since he knows Tinker has been doing fine.
At the gate they meet up with another Fist getting ready to depart. It looks like they have wagons in their entourage. Nikolai looks at his Fist and shrugs. Approaching the Thumb, he introduces himself and ask where they are headed, "If it isn't classified information, that is. If we are headed roughly in the same direction, we could join forces for that brief time. Company on the road is always welcome."
Diplomacy +1: 10 I definitely need to get some more skill points in Diplo. could use some help here
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Wednesday March 11th, 2015 11:58:08 PM
Zieluviet returns at dusk to the quarters. He takes out the goggles at the arrival.
The mess hall is disturbing to Ziel anyway, so he decides to look less like a stranger and approaches the private room with the group. He attempts to compensate Pru by placing 5 goldies on the table.
This time, Ziel feels way better and even smiles. However, he doesn't plan to start any topic, relying on the Agents for that. Except for one. He turns to Jasper "I've seen your new axe. Does this mean you declined my challenge? (You know, the one of crafting a weapon of that material)"
"I should also tell more about me, if there is. I'm actually interested in your experience, Jasper. Do you know any stories of behirs? I just know what they look like and that they used to live where some Drows made themselves into the underground. You said they are ferocious, but if it were not for one's work of a tunnel, my story would be many decades shorter at this moment.
As for how I joined the Fist, you may find it unusual...
You see, I used to carry requests that the usual bounty hunter could not. Those were missions with low risk and that demanded patience or wits. These things are too much to ask to the ordinary mercenaries and I'd pass a chance to get myself killed for some gold.
The job that got me here was to simply deliver a letter from Captain Palance's sister, from whose I've taken requests other times, though I didn't knew that the letter was adressed to the Captain at the time. It seems she left recommendations which led Captain Palance to request me to join. Honestly, I'd decline, as I'd rather not get myself shedding blood for some gold, but I expect more from this unit, Nikolai's Fist and Captain Palance. Something tells me she's trustable. At least, her smartness is certain."
At Nikolai's points: "That's right. A break may let the dust calm down. Though I am feeling obsessed with this assignment."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+12=32 ; Thursday March 12th, 2015 2:58:07 AM
When we all get settled at the table and i have ensured that we have privacy i being up the ideal of checking Helmbanes quarters again. guys if we go into the towns with nothing to go on, it will be like trying to find a needle in a haystack. We owe it to the spirit of efficiency to exhaust every lead here before we venture further, searching his quarters is a low risk high reward scenario, but I will not move in this direction unless i have everyone's approval on the matter.
Perception ( to see if we are being spied upon ) 32 nat 20!
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+4=23 ; Thursday March 12th, 2015 7:00:52 AM " I've no tale of glory, if that's what yer asking. I was one of the better fighters in my class, and after a couple of assignments I was promoted to be thumb because I could keep my head in a fight." " Soon after I was bumped up, me and several other Fists were sent to Glitterdelve in the Red Hills. Almost to a man we were a dwarf unit, and the mine had been having trouble with the local goblins and had paid for a garrison to sort the problem out. The settlement was little more than a mining camp. The only permanent house belonged to the mine owner and was still being built when we got there. The goblins were doing normal goblin things, sneaking into camp and slitting throats in the night, dragging off lone miners when they could, whatever they could do to weaken the camp. When we arrived they must have decided if the mine was worth protecting, then it was worth taking. They started full scale attacks. The perimeter was awful, there was no wall, a total nightmare. Worse the miners were there to mine, not help us keep them alive. The Fist had to clear the trees and build the palisade to defend them." " We managed, and kept the place safe. It grew and prospered until their mine started to run dry. We were recalled but by then I had met the woman I would marry. She was the owners daughter and the most amazing woman I had ever known. We married, had a bunch of kids and turned the mine around. She died bringing Agate into the world. I blamed him for it and left his brothers and sisters to raise him while I became an obsessive idiot, building a tomb for her. He knew I was upset and spent his days in the wilds, now that it was safer to be outside the walls. Flower finally showed me that he was the last piece of her I had left and I should cherish it. I started to, but he decided to leave and join the Fist, maybe to prove he was worthy of my attention. I signed everything over to my eldest son and followed him to try and keep him safe." At the gate in the morning, Jasper is not looking forward to this trip. Horses and he had never gotten along. When he sees the wagons his mood improves, since he could probably pace a wagon on foot, rather than riding the beast. Nikolai looks lost as he talks to the drover and Thumb leading the expedition, so Jasper steps up to see if he can help. " Flowers blessing to you all this fine morning. Are they headed our way Sir? We could travel with them and both have a safer trip, aye? Strength in numbers and all that." Diplomacy 23 ( With a roll like that maybe the group should help me? I kinda expected to fail the check to be honest. Either way, I'll help Nikolai get his point across.)
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 Thursday March 12th, 2015 8:29:00 AM
William agrees that traveling with another fist makes sense, especially if they run into trouble on the way. On the trip, he'll subtly inquire about the cargo, it's contents, etc.
AC 18 T14 F14 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday March 12th, 2015 5:32:13 PM
Tinker arrives at the dinner in a more subdues frame of mind. While working out with his lock sets, the young dwarf had the opportunity to review Jasper's words over and over again. Finally, he can't hide it anymore, not to himself; the old dwarf was right proper to Nikolai and didn't overstep. That Tinker is wrong doesn't put the young dwarf in a better mood, but if there is one thing he learned from his mentor, it is to correct mistakes you made.
"Jasper", he starts bluntly when he has a moment alone with the older dwarf, "I have felt you were impinging on my loyalty to Helmsbane today and thought you were trying to tell Nikolai what to do instead of just reporting." Tinker needs to take another breath before continuing. "I apologize." Tinker is in no mood for lengthy conversation or to continue this area of discussion, and spends most of the dinner being quiet. He eats and drinks frugally, drinking most deeply on the toast of past companions.
During the storytelling, Tinker unbends enough to tell his tale...
"A dwarf was found by a gnome family as an infant at the site of a destroyed caravan. The gnomes took him in and raised them as best they could, and named him "Tinker" because of his interest and ability with manipulating objects. Oh, he was good with his hands, and grew in a family that loved him, but naturally gravitated to the only other dwarf within a day's walk. When the time came that Tinker was asking about his parentage, the only thing that Jaspertink and Posiepocket were able to give him was a burnt board with dwarven runes that they said came from a bassinet. Tinker deciphered the board as "Daemar Torvalsson". Soon after, he joined the Fist to travel and seek his history, which begins this story. "
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) d20+9=10 ; Thursday March 12th, 2015 7:40:34 PM
Pru enjoys the celebration with her Fist-mates.
When Zieluviet slides his 5 gold over to her, Pru slides 4 of them back. "I doubt you'll be eating that much," she smiles.
She listens to Michael's suggestion with alarm. "I think you have a different definition of 'low-risk' than the rest of us," she says.
When Nikolai speaks to the other group's Thumb, Pru adds a winning smile. "It would be pleasant to travel together," she says. [Diplomacy 10, which is good enough for Aid Another. Nikolai gets +2 to his Diplomacy check.]
DM Warren Thursday March 12th, 2015 9:51:42 PM
The fist that is moving out welcomes the company of the Agents. Tinker investigates the wagons, but as yet they are empty. It seems this run is for supplies, and the wagons are laden with empty sacks. Tinker makes sure of this during the journey, and is glad for something to root through, since he has been denied scouting Sgt. Helmbane's rooms until they return.
All in all, it's a pleasant day for traversing the countryside as the wagons and the Agents begin on their journey to Wedding City. This fist is quite used to the journey, and tells the Aegnts that with the wagons, it will be a three day journey. The first of these passes quickly as the Agents' rear ends get reacquainted with the saddle. Night approaches and the wagons circle, placing a fire in the middle and using it to cook up their trail rations. There is plenty for all, and though the fare is less fancy than that of the previous evening, it is comforting, and a nice evening is passed before setting watches for the night.
let me know what your plans are for passing the night
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+7=11 ; d20+12=30 ; Thursday March 12th, 2015 10:55:55 PM
Nikolai shakes his head at Michael's suggestion to search Sgt. Helmbane's quarters before they leave. "It isn't just a simple matter of sneaking into his quarters and searching it. It is a matter of not having a search warrant. Do you want just anyone traipsing through our barracks searching through our personal belongings at any whim? There's a matter of trust. Without a search warrant, or some proof of wrongdoing, we would be trespassing, and if caught, could end up with disciplinary action against us. That would certainly put an end to our mission. So let's keep that card in our hands for now."
OOC: I gather that they are heading to Wedding City too? Did I miss something?
IC: Nikolai welcomes the company and during the trip, asks what supplies are they to gather and how often do they do this trip. He explains that he thought the Fists were assigned missions that entailed much danger. Had they had brigand problems? Theft problems?
Meanwhile, he takes note of the Fist's complement. What troops are they? All fighters? A mix?
Profession (Soldier) +7 = 11
At night, he suggests that one of his Fist stand guard with one of theirs and makes sure the spell casters in the group have enough time to rest.
He takes the last watch. Per +12 = 30
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+3=16 ; d20+7=14 Thursday March 12th, 2015 11:12:39 PM
Jasper tells Checker how long it would have taken to make the axe. " I would still be honored to work with you on weapons, but time was of the essence for this mission. To have crafted this weapon myself it would have taken more than a month of constant work at the forge. The metal is fickle and hard to shape, hardly the right thing to make a weapon of. But it is what we require, and so I bought it. We will talk of the Behir later. I have only seen the one, but I have heard tales from some of the woodsmen from around Glitterdelve of others. We will talk of them one day." Jasper is happy to ride at the slower pace of the wagons, at least until he becomes reacquainted with the saddle. When they stop for the night he stretches and groans, unused to riding for such a long period. Once camp is set, he seeks out Tinker, to try and smooth over their differences. " You were fierce in your defense of your shield brothers and sister, making sure I was not a threat to them when I joined your Fist. That kind of loyalty is earned through shared hardship. I hope that I have passed your test and met with your approval, and that someday I too will warrant that fierce camaraderie from you. What do you suggest for a watch order for me tonight? I assume you and your Fist already have an order established. I am not the most observant dwarf, but my eyes can see in the dark like yours, so tell me who to back up and I will." Jasper has a tent in his kit, and will set it up. Perception 16 If it is apparent what Nikolai is up to, Jasper will try to gauge the other fist as well. Profession soldier 14
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Friday March 13th, 2015 10:35:02 AM
Not having had an oportunity to visit with the new guy yet Michael volunteers to share lookout duty with him. At some point during the watch he tells the old dwarf his story. A couple of decades ago a merchant ship traversing the Lolgphi ocean came across the remains of a battle, lots of dead humans, demi humans and monsters floating in the water. In a lifeboat next to the body of a halfling mage with a ballista bolt through her neck was I. The captain took me aboard and delivered me to his employer in Aisildur. From what I've gathered he was the front man for a syndicate of poerful criminals hoping to "open" Aisildur up for exploitation. It was a bad idea. Aisildur has the best secret police force in the world. Everybody who has been Heart Seeded is a part of it. The guys who worked it tried to fit into society, I was used as a "child" for one of the teams. Thats how i learned most of my skills. Anyway...instead of opening the area, the syndicate spent the 15 years I was with them just trying to stay out of the secret police custody. When they fianally caught up with the cell I was a part of, they harvested the hearts of the adults to use in their sick rituals. I was the only child and thanks to anchange self scroll I was able to appear 5 or 6 years old. They put me in a state run orphanage till I was old enough to be heart seeded. I escaped as soon as their backs werenturned. There are places to hide in Aisildur. Some of those who are heart seeded dont come out right, they go insane. The population ignores them. I lived among them for several years till I could make my escape. The insane ones have strange powers and one of them opened a gateway for me into culverwood. I think I wandered in those woods for over a year, but i swear it only seemed like a few days. I came out near Tears of the Wood. The Fist has an outpost there. I joined up and here I am today.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Friday March 13th, 2015 10:39:29 AM
Michael makes sure to take care of his mule when they stop for camp. Rub down, feed, check her feet and wellbeing. He helps around the camp and generally tries to make himself useful.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Friday March 13th, 2015 1:27:39 PM
On the journey, Pru chats easily with her Fist-mates, and with the other Fist. When they make camp, she sees to her horse, then helps out with any camp chores that don't involve lifting and carrying. She is willing to take a watch, but does not insist on it.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday March 13th, 2015 6:24:11 PM
The ride at a slow pace is relaxing ffor Tinker because he has plenty of time looking over the backtrail from his usual place at the rear. He'll be companionable enough with any of the other Fist that stays with him in the back. "Practice as if you are always in unfriendly territory and you won't forget when it counts."
At camp that night, Tinker is wary when Jasper approaches, but the older dwarf has good things to say. Still, how Jasper speaks makes Tinker confused. Test? He shakes his head, but even he can understand that Jasper is making, well, an overture is what his foster mother called it. Tinker eagerly grasps on something Jasper says to break the ice.
"Mid watch and late night are the best two times for dwarves and those with dark vision. I'll take late watch and you can take mid. If you want that is", he adds only slightly late. Then Tinker looks at the other Fist and catches Nikolai's eye. "We should do guard one and one with the other Fist maybe. " As usual, Tinker does whatever Nikolai decides.
DM Warren Friday March 13th, 2015 6:46:51 PM
The escorting fist is proficient and well organized. They aren't the chattiest bunch, but they work well together and are able to adapt to the extra hands and mouths with ease. They seem to have this down to a routine, and when asked, they have done the Wedding City run dozens of times, and it's all old hat now.
The fist doesn't seem terribly worried about bandits on this road. It's well traveled, and all the best goods go by sea which is visible to the north over the cliffs. The most trouble they usually have is running off the wild dogs when they're bringing back a load of smoked meats.
There are plenty of eyes to keep watch all night without the spell casters needing to worry, and the night passes uneventfully. The next day passes in much the same fashion, and before they know it, it's the third morning and the Agents can see the towers of Wedding City about a half day's travel away.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 Friday March 13th, 2015 8:29:33 PM
(Previous before Fri nights post...) William will take the last watch of the night, ensuring that he has enough time to sleep and memorize his spells for the next day...
(Today) William breathes easier as they near Wedding City after an uneventful trip... He wonders where they should start their investigation, maybe with the local merchants or wherever this caravan is set to drop off its goods... He inquires more about the city itself, the powers in charge, local intrigue, the economy, trade centers, etc...
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Friday March 13th, 2015 9:44:11 PM "Mid works for me. Hopefully I am observant enough. My eyes are more trained to find flaws in stones or spot the glint of gems in a mine than to spotting enemies. It has been quite some time since I stood a watch." Away from the other Fist, Jasper asks William, the most well versed in the missing gear, what items were most prevalent in the thefts. His reasoning is that if they examine the places that deal in those items they might have a better chance of finding the thieves. He also takes a look at the file again, burning the symbol that marked the crates into his memory.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Friday March 13th, 2015 9:59:28 PM
As the landscape changes with the rising towers at the horizon, Zieluviet grows distressed.
"Nice view. Walking these streets knowing that some hostile could easily land an arrow on my head... I've yet to see death coming from above."
He's bothered at the crafting matters Jasper pointed. It's been so long Ziel last forged a melee weapon he could just imagine it to be as easy as to forge some bolts or broadheads and yet, he used to have plenty of time before being an Agent. Suddenly, the Drow was afraid of getting dull at the craft.
"A life of production exchanged for one of following orders and occasionally making Vynghol spill blood. How far can Captain Palance take me?"
He ponders so much that can be easily perceived as concerned by the companions.
"I'll know your reason, Palance! I'll find out what your eyes have seen that made them as sharp as my deepest fear. Your wits, your will... I know them and you know that I do. We walk the way of violence, yet we desire only peace. I'll have you trust me when the time arrives or die by your hands. Yes I will..."
The thinking ended with Ziel gesturing abstractly. He snaps and searches if someone has taken notice and shies away.
The plan in Wedding City is to gather some materials for crafting in the meantime. But still, the priority is to work the objective. Well, the pile has the search about the supplies on top and the chocolates at the bottom. Ziel doesn't care as much about that Steelgrass, though he'd be glad if could sit there and ask as many questions to the Weaver as he could come with in a lifetime - a Drow lifetime. That or learn about Steelgrass. Who knows Vynghol II could be made of it. That's a promising material actually. Research note added to his agenda.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+9=24 ; Saturday March 14th, 2015 12:04:24 PM
Tinker nods, pleased that they are able to work together, even if it was just planning.
Night passes and day breaks, the other Fist's professionalism sitting well with Tinker. He again puts his pony at rear guard, keeping watch over the backtrail on the way to Wedding City.
Perception. 24
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Saturday March 14th, 2015 12:15:37 PM
The sight of a city invokes a strange series of emotions in Michael. On one hand the pulse and press of humanity equates to anonymity and a wealth of places to hide, on the other hand his only experience with cites was in Aisildur, among the chosen of Ga'al and all the bad memories that entails. He is eager, excited and happy to finally arrive at a new place, but in the back of his mind, like the last vestiges of bad nightmare, or the echos of a scream in a dark room, a dread remains. Acceptance is the key, to embrace the fear, to run toward it with the same energy that some would use to run away. That is bravery. Just as boredom fully accepted is serenity, anger justice and sadness a sweet ache of remberance. He smiles and suddenly he cannot wait to explore this city.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Saturday March 14th, 2015 6:53:53 PM
Each morning, Pru casts an Extended Mage Armor on herself, and another on Nikolai, to keep them protected throughout the day.
As they approach Wedding City, Pru finds a moment to take Nikolai aside.
"Do you think maybe we should go back to the Citadel with this group as well?" she asks him. "It might give us a chance to observe anything that happens to the goods in transit."
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Sunday March 15th, 2015 11:23:56 PM
By taking Vynghol in his hands, Ziel feels troubled as if he abandoned the practice. His signature was the quality craftsmanship in that bow. The hand crossbow he carries as backup is also quite good, but wasn't made as Vynghol.
"Grah! My craft was supposed to be unmatched!"
He turns to the group, especially Michael, Tinker, Nikolai and Jasper.
"Alright. I'll make someone a bow if you can evaluate my work with absolute sincerity. Keep note that I mastered the composite craft and the work is promised to be of finest quality." The Drow peers the skies and the constructions. "Hmmm... it can also be a crossbow if you like, or even some melee weapons. All I ask is one week and that you keep it afterwards."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Monday March 16th, 2015 5:05:59 PM
Spells in effect: Mage Armor
OOC: I think I asked earlier what cargo they were carrying, ie. what were labeled on the crates, but I may have forgotten... IC: Nikolai agrees with Pru in inquires how long the caravan will be in Wedding City. During their trip, he pays close attention to the labels on the cargo. He intends to to make a note of where they are delivered and then pay a visit later on to each place. If something shows up worthy of further investigation, they'll mark that place for a covert operation.
Meanwhile, he enjoys the trip and getting to know better the new members of the fist.
With Wedding City in sight, he asks, "So, how long is your stay in Wedding City? Do you get to enjoy some RnR while here?" He does not mention anything about joining them on the return trip.
DM Warren Monday March 16th, 2015 7:51:25 PM
The Agents greet the city with various levels of excitement. Despite Ziel's musings, the city seems safe enough. Not crowded enough that views are obstructed, but busy enough that an assassin would have a hard time hiding.
(The wagons were empty on the way in, they're purchasing here)
The wagon driver responds to Nikolai. We don't have a set schedule. We'll be here until we get everything Qualtmie has requested for a fair price. The lads will have a chance to relax a day or so while I do the haggling.
The Agents go about their own business in the meantime.
(Anyone looking for the shipping label make knowledge local rolls
Otherwise, let me know what sort of things you're looking for while in town.)
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+3=19 ; d20+1=16 ; d20+9=22 ; d20+9=23 ; d20+7=15 ; Monday March 16th, 2015 8:45:46 PM
Going by the list of stolen goods Jasper visits any shops that he can relate to ( weapons, stonework, mining supplies, smithys). While there he looks for the crate markings and any of the items missing from the Fist's supplies. Perception 19 Knowledge local (I have no ranks) 16 Profession Miner 22 Profession Stonemason 23 Craft weapon smith 15
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 d20+8=22 ; d20+7=11 ; Monday March 16th, 2015 9:34:26 PM
William starts looking around the city, finding out about the local merchants or wherever this caravan is set to drop off its goods... He inquires more about the city itself, the powers in charge, local intrigue, the economy, trade centers, the shipping label, etc...
Know Local - 22 Perc - 11
(I'll be out of town the next several days, and I'm not sure if I'll be able to post anymore this week so if someone would cover for me, that'd be great. I'll try to post if possible, but am not sure...)
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) d20+8=19 ; Monday March 16th, 2015 10:40:57 PM
Pru is curious about these famous chocolates, and makes a point of seeking some out.
She also assists her Fist-mates. She doesn't have a clear idea of where would be best to investigate, so she accompanies somebody else, ready to smile winningly and try to get some information from talkative merchants or shopkeeps.
[Here is a general Diplomacy roll: 19.]
DM Warren Tuesday March 17th, 2015 5:28:23 PM Jasper wanders the city, looking for anything that may catch his eye. He sees a few of the items that the caravan they rode in with was looking for at what seems to be good prices, but he sees no sign of the shipping label that is in their dossier. He looks in several kinds of shops, but everything that is up front and for sale is on racks and shelves, with no shipping crates of any kind in evidence. Ziel accompanies him, looking for materials with which to craft a bow to display his skills.
William also takes the wandering method. The city is a hub of trade and largely under control of the merchants. You can find most anything you seek in Wedding City, but with such diversity, it is hard to find rare or expensive items other than what is produced here. As the name of the city would suggest, there are several rather upscale looking bakeries, and the air is perfumed with the aroma of breads and cakes. Pru's easy smile helps people to talk more, and the locals are more than willing to tell them which shops they consider to have the best chocolate around. There are rivalries between neighborhoods over which is the best, but they are all appear to have quite good products.
Nikolai, Michael, and Tinker stick with the caravan leader, seeing where he is shopping and admiring the skill with which he negotiates with the shop owners. It is obvious that he's done this before and the shopkeepers know him and how much he is willing to pay for their goods. The main items he's looking for are sacks of flour and other grains, preserved meats, cheeses, and dried fruit. He is also getting some smaller items, such as nails and miscellaneous tools.
No one sees any sign of the shipping label they brought with them.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Tuesday March 17th, 2015 6:12:56 PM "I suggest a try at any place. The sign should hardly be a secret around here..." Ziel gives a sidelong look and smirks. "...and if things walk the unwanted way we could also 'prevaricate', unless Sire Jasper is against it that is."
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+7=12 ; d20+9=10 ; d20+9=27 ; Tuesday March 17th, 2015 6:56:34 PM
Tinker keeps with the Thumb and helps with the purchases as he can. He keeps his eyes peeled and his ear to the ground , having a bit of local knowledge to look for the label.
He is also interested in the famous chocolates if Wedding City and will purchase one to taste. "Wonder why it's called Wedding City" he says to no one in particular.
Know Local 12
Know Engineering 10
Perception 27
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+3=16 ; d20+1=8 ; Tuesday March 17th, 2015 7:03:33 PM " I don't wanna pick a fight, this is supposed to be on the down low. But, if there is someone who feels our questions are enough provocation to fight us over them, I'll darn well finish any fight that starts. Let's just look for today and meet the Fist back at out lodging." ( I assume we set that up before running in different directions) Jasper is no sleuth, nor is his armored bulk very subtle, but he does his best to get a look into the receiving yards and back rooms of the places he visits. He also pays attention to the brands on any of the beasts of burden of the places he visits. Do any of them carry sketchy brands or marks? By sketchy he is looking for a mark or brand that might have been altered or branded over. In particular are there any Fist marks that have been changed? Perception 16 Knowledge Local (not trained) 8
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Tuesday March 17th, 2015 10:33:57 PM
While walking the city with the other fist, Nikolai inquires the best place for a restful night's sleep. Once that is determined, he informs the fist before they disperse to meet there.
After spending the rest of the time and learning a lot about haggling and bartering, Nikolai returns to the inn they've agreed upon and secures rooms for them all, Pru getting her own, the rest sharing.
Once all have met up at the inn, and when they insure no one can hear, he suggests, "Crates don't jut sit around in plane sight. They are usually stacked in the alleys, back rooms, and warehouses. Those left unattended usually end up as firewood for someone's stew. what we need to do is to go together as procurement agents of the Fist and ask to see their warehouse or stockroom to 'make sure they can supply the quantity the Fist needs'. If our pans come up empty by the time we leave, we should try hitching up with a supply run that is geared towards those items that are stolen. We plan that phase when we get there.
So tomorrow we stick together and visit the places that deal in the types of items that are being stolen. We want to impress upon the proprietors that the Fist is stocking up for a long assignment and we need to see their supplies. If that don't get us into their back rooms and warehouses, we put our heads together for some other cunning plan." he grins.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Wednesday March 18th, 2015 11:24:10 AM
During her wanderings about the city, Pru purchases a small box of chocolates to exchange for steelgrass, and an extra chocolate to try herself. She's a little disappointed in it. Sure, it's sweet and creamy, but on the whole Pru thinks she prefer's Ma's honey cakes.
When Nikolai outlines the plan, Pru looks worried. "Well...." she says. "Well, is anybody any good at lying? I mean, remember the group that was in that abandoned church? We're terrible liars. At least I am." She looks hopefully at the newer members of the team.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Wednesday March 18th, 2015 4:01:37 PM
Nikolai's plan seems effective and the Agents are resourceful enough to execute it.
At Pru's question, however, Ziel gets concerned. He hates lying, but experience has proven that a good lie is the best answer to someone who can't take the truth or is just conveniently stupid. There's one thing, however, that is the infamy a good liar can get. "Lies bear no strength as the truth does. It is said they take you nowhere... but I do know how to talk the way out."
Ziel places the right finger in his cheek.
"Besides, I know how well Michael can perform. Remember when we met at the swamp?"
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Wednesday March 18th, 2015 5:45:55 PM
Michael blushes,
I can lie if I need to, but I try not to make a habit of it. I would like to stop by the city court house and see If I can find some blueprints of the sewers. Rats live in sewers right? we can talk to the city workers and see if they have a rat problem in this city. That could be a clue. if worst come to worst we can concentrate on which ever city has the worst rat problem, or maybe...whichever one has the least rat problem, Can you smell what I'm cooking here?
DM Warren Wednesday March 18th, 2015 6:30:37 PM
Tinker wonders how the city got its name. As he walks around, there does seem to be an unusually large amount of couples smiling at each other and walking arm in arm. Perhaps people come here to celebrate their wedding?
Tinker and Pru each sample one of the famous chocolates. The flavors are subtle and delicate, distinct, but not overwhelming what is obviously chocolate of the highest quality. Still, perhaps Pru's tastes are not refined enough to appreciate them, and she would rather serve her wedding guests her Ma's home baked goodies. Then again, nothing is ever better than your Ma's cooking, right?
How much are you planning on spending on chocolates, Pru?
Perhaps they don't know much about the city, but they would have seen the sign if it was there, right? They certainly traipsed about for hours on end, eyes peeled for anything suspicious, peeking in back alleys at broken crates and being blocked from back rooms whose contents are none of their business. Japser doesn't notice any animals with Fist brandings or altered tack. Then again, there was no mention of stolen animals either.
That evening, Nikolai prepares a story with the Agents that he thinks will get them the information they've been looking for, seeing as their current methods have been unsuccessful. The problem is, who will spin the tale? Ziel and Michael may be able to lie for the good of the mission, if they think it's a good enough cause. It looks like they'll need their rest, as they have a lot of plans going for tomorrow.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Wednesday March 18th, 2015 8:50:30 PM
OOC Actually having the list in the packet would help us narrow down our search. Right now we are throwing things out there because we have a list but apparently can't read it. Several people have asked what was stolen.... IC " Like most dwarves, I am pretty straight forward . But to save my boy from being at a disadvantage in the field, I'd lie to a high priest if that's what it took. I am not going to be terribly convincing though."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Wednesday March 18th, 2015 9:09:19 PM
Nikolai chuckles at moral discussion. "Well, it is in part truth. We know the Fist is building a fort to guard the Bloodroot tree and ensure the gnolls stay on their side. So those manning the fort will need to be equipped and maintained. Also, I 'thought' I heard some talk about going after the gnolls once the intel we gave has been properly studied. Of course, the Fist may not go, but we don't know that 'for sure'. So we won't be lying. Our facts may be off a little, but I"m 'convinced' we are correct in that assessment of the need of supplies. It just so happens that they are the kind that seems to be getting stolen. Besides, we need to practice somewhere, better to practice in a city where there doesn't seem to be involved."
Nikolai nods at Michael. "I like that different perspective on it. What large city doesn't have a rat problem? We can call ourselves the Rattateers and hire ourselves out to clean the sewers from any rat infestation. We can even have a special Mailed Fist badge made up. I like that, I really do."[/b]
With everyone sort of spread out in rooms (OOC: how many per room? 2? 4?) Nikolai reminds everyone that even though they are in a city, not to be lax and set up watch. He'll take the first watch outside Pru's door and hopes the windows can be shuttered well enough.
Next day they start their 'procurement inspection' survey.
OOC: yea, a list of goods might help, otherwise we'll just say we go to [i]generic shop after generic shop and let you fill in the blanks. If that works best for you, ok, just as long as we know that. :)
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday March 18th, 2015 9:22:43 PM
Tinker is also a straight forward fellow and doesn't really care enough about social mores to know how to lie convincingly. "I'll help where I can with the plan", he says, "but not sure what I can do. "
Still, Tinker can look like a convincing guard. All he has to do is keep quiet, stay in armor, and look around suspiciously. And that's what he does all the time anyways!
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Wednesday March 18th, 2015 10:08:22 PM
It was a civilized city, and the rooms were quite nice. Jasper's posting at the mine had taught him a few lessons though. A watch was always a good idea. They had lost a whole fist after being there only a few nights. Bugbear throat cutters had snuck into the camp, enters that Fist's tent and killed three dwarves before anyone even woke up. Since then he had always kept sentries on his walls and locks on his doors and windows. Bugbears were sneaky, and silent as a cloud in the night air, but they couldn't pick locks to save their lives. Jasper will gladly split the night with his room mate, or room mates and take a watch. Aside from that, one of his axes beneath the doorknob and the shutters on the window secured should provide adequate security.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Thursday March 19th, 2015 9:07:40 AM
Even without the 'suspicious' towers above them, Ziel was be expected to have problems to sleep at Wedding City. He imagined if, for some time, someone managed to trace their way through the city and he didn't notice. He does recall some times when his attention got dispersed from them and whatever could be knocking at their doors, Ziel would rather have Vynghol ready to pin the intruder. That and the Wedding theme are making his thoughts circle a certain someone.
The Drow signals to the Dwarven Sentinels and whispers. "You may sleep, Sire Jasper. I can't anyway and we shall not waste efforts. Besides, I'm at home, literally, in the dark."
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Thursday March 19th, 2015 11:59:55 AM
[OOC: Pru spends about 10 gold on her gift chocolates, plus a single chocolate for herself, however much that ends up being. And some people just don't like chocolate. I'm saying Pru is one of those. :) ]
At the inn, Pru has the mixed blessing of a room to herself. It's nice to have some privacy. On the other hand, if she's going to keep watch, she'll need to stay up all night, because there's nobody to help her with that.
She decides to go to sleep.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 Thursday March 19th, 2015 5:39:35 PM
William agrees with the plan of Ziel and Michael's deception, and hopefully that'll give them a lead to follow... Otherwise they may need to move to a different city if this one doesn't pay off...
He'll take last watch in whatever apartment they share, so that he has time to memorize spells for the next day...
DM Warren Thursday March 19th, 2015 6:53:29 PM Sorry, thought I had done that a while back. The list consists of mundane arms, armor, medical supplies, and other common items such as traveling gear, ropes, etc.
Some of the Agents are more paranoid than the others and watches are set up to make sure no one breaks into their room from the hallway at least. They spend a quiet night. Pru is undisturbed and Ziel's eyes are bleary from his nightlong vigil. Morning comes, and they are ready to put their plan into action.
Pru - if you want steelgrass, the gp value of chocolate needs to equal the value of the items you wish. if it's just for gifting purposes, they will last about a week without some way to keep them cool. Ziel - DC15 fortitude save or gain the fatigued condition for staying up all night.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday March 19th, 2015 7:40:57 PM
Tinker rises and stretches, ready for the day. He preps to look like a bodyguard and keeps a good watch on whoever is the 'boss'.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Thursday March 19th, 2015 10:24:44 PM
Jasper gears up in the morning. They are supposed to represent the Fist as purchasing agents, so he makes sure his armor and weapons are in perfect order for the task. He can serve as either a guard or a specialist on the quality of weapons they are about to buy, as the boss requires. Jasper makes sure to keep the boss primed with guidance at all times to aid his negotiations.
Notes Guidance, Light, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Cure Light Wounds(d),Comprehend Languages, Protection From Evil, Shield of Faith, Magic Weapon, Cure Moderate Wounds(d), Find Traps, Hold Person
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+6=19 ; Thursday March 19th, 2015 11:27:06 PM
Michael sets up on third watch, if the rooms are indoors and upstairs, like in a tavern he sets himself up so that he can watch the approaches to the rooms and he periodically makes a sweep around the area, checking the rooms and such.
In the morning he makes good on his idea, as he now believes he has his Thumbs approval. He goes down to the city hall, commissars office or what have you. He inquires gently with the staff, mainly the blue collar guys, about the rat problems in the city. he walks to seperate Burroughs within the city, so that he can get separate stories from separate workers. If he gets one group saying there is not rat problem, and another saying the rats are taking over, they nay sayer may be a problem.
He does this by playing the part of a taveling rat catcher. so I'm going to use Perform as my skill for this.
perform 19.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+1=8 ; d20+1=6 ; d20+1=5 ; d20+1=14 ; d20+1=12 ; d20+1=2 ; d20+1=21 ; d20=17 ; d20=1 ; d20=4 ; d20=17 ; d20=5 ; d20=19 ; d20=3 ; Friday March 20th, 2015 12:01:53 AM
OOC: Nikolai had planned to have watches set in the hall, that way all doors would be watched by one person , but oh well.
IC: Next morning Nikolai rehashes the plan before they get some breakfast. "We will be posing as Procurement Quality Inspectors for the Mailed Fist. Our job is to inspect the quantity in stock of these items on our list and their quality. It should be very straight forward and not really far from the truth. As far as we know, the Fist does this same thing every now and then just to make sure they get the good stuff and that the suppliers don't get lax and cut corners."
So, after breakfast, they head out. They look for a big supplier and then hit a smaller one and back and forth all day, looking for anything that might have the symbol they believe belongs to the smugglers. For this task, Nikolai lets the sweat talkers do the talking and aids whenever necessary.
OOC: Nikolai's Bluff and Diplomacy bonuses are zilch so I'll roll some Aid Another and let the better Bluff and Diplomacy PCs do the talking.
Diplo Aid Another: 8,6,5,14,12,2,21 Bluff Aid Another: 17,1,4,17,5,19,3
P.S. Someone go with Michael, Pru probably.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) d20+2=17 ; Friday March 20th, 2015 2:21:49 AM
OoC: Not this time. (Fortitude: 17) -~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-
As Ziel watches the dawn, the stinging daylight prompts the Drow to put on the goggles. He feels a bit shaky, but gets better after the breakfast.
He disagrees with proposed pace of these operations, but follows them anyway.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) d20+5=13 ; Friday March 20th, 2015 5:26:54 PM
[OOC: Okay, I misunderstood. Pru spends 305 gp on her gift chocolates.]
As instructed, Pru accompanies Michael. She does her best to act like the wide-eyed apprentice, inexperienced and possibly not that bright, learning from the master rat-catcher, Michael.
[Untrained perform or bluff: 13]
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+7=11 ; d20+9=16 ; d20+6=20 ; Friday March 20th, 2015 7:56:42 PM
Tinker will help as needed, whether he can or not, but he best is able to keep his eyes open, hs ears to the ground, and help out determining the rative value of goods.
Know Local 11
Perception 16
Appraise (aid another) 20
DM Warren Friday March 20th, 2015 8:45:37 PM Michael and Pru put on quite an act, Michael talking to the populace and Pru acting wide eyed and innocent. As in any large city, there is quite a population of rats, yet their reception varies. The citizens of the town seem like they would welcome anyone that's offering to reduce the rat population, but the staff in city hall seems less enthusiastic. It seems they have regular staff for that sort of thing, and they don't take kindly to scabs trying to take their work. Still, they may be some private citizens that would employ them if they wanted to take a contract.
The others make the rounds of the city with a more focused goal this time. Their status as Agents of the Fist ingratiate them to the owners of the warehouses. Contracts with the Fist are lucrative, and everyone is more than willing to show off their goods in the hope of wrangling a large sale. The quality of goods varies between the merchants, but one thing is constant - nothing looks like it was ill-gotten. Everyone knows their product intimately and is either made by local artisans or is loaded in crates marked clearly with local stamps. Everything here seems above board, and there is no evidence of goods stolen from the Fist.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Saturday March 21st, 2015 3:03:44 PM
The day passes and Tinker has seen some quality goods, some interesting people, and some skilled artisans. What he hasn't found is anything remotely like a hint that something possibly is out of place. If the others are equally fruitless when that talk over dinner, the dwarf is glumly certain that Wedding City does not have anything to do with the mystery.
It is another thing that is more on Tinker's mind as the group returns to quarters; the good lives of the good people of the city. They lead simple, honest lives without the need to be ready to defend themselves at a moment's notice. It is something the young dwarf admires. And ponders.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Saturday March 21st, 2015 5:07:55 PM
After a hard day of pretending to be a slow-witted rat-catcher's apprentice (that is, a rat-catcher's apprentice who is slow-witted; not an apprentice to a slow-witted rat-catcher), Pru is more than ready for a good dinner and a relaxing evening at the inn.
If there is time, she uses the flute to return to the Sargrass with her chocolates to exchange them. [OOC: It wasn't clear to me whether we had to go in a group, or whether we could go one at a time. I'm also not sure how long it'll take.]
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Sunday March 22nd, 2015 12:52:15 AM "Well, this was very informative. There never was any guarantee that every city was involved. I'm personally glad Wedding City seems off the hook for now. I'll check with the other Fist and see how they fared and find out when they are leaving, if they know yet. Meanwhile, tomorrow you are free to do what you want if they are still going to be here. I'm going chocolate hunting."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Sunday March 22nd, 2015 1:19:11 AM
checking in
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Sunday March 22nd, 2015 1:21:20 AM
OOC: Hey Pru, I think the whistle for the sargrass planes is a one shot deal. I'd check with the DM before I blew it.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Sunday March 22nd, 2015 3:17:15 PM
Jasper agrees. Enough supplies have gone missing for the Fist, an enormous organization in and of itself, to notice them. If any were here they would have seen some sign. He is ready to head to the next city whenever the rest are. He has not got enough funds for anything made of Steelgrass that would do himself or his son any good so he does not need to make any purchases. He is also unclear if the old man's offer would even include him, since he was not one of the people to help complete the tapestry
William is frustrated that the investigation is taking so long, but he too is ready to move onto the next city as soon as they can find a transport or caravan...
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Sunday March 22nd, 2015 10:12:29 PM
Though he still thinks there's something to be uncovered here, Ziel had enough of this city. He suggests Nikolai to advise the other Fist about the stolen goods. Not necessarily the facts, but, in case of leaving soon, it would be nice if they could report whatever related news they find in the meantime.
DM Warren Monday March 23rd, 2015 4:05:58 PM DM OOC: The whistle is a one-shot deal. Everyone that wishes to trade for steelgrass must make the journey at the same time.
The Agents spent a lovely, if not entirely productive, day in a beautiful city that is a far cry from what they are accustomed to at the citadel. At least they found several chocolate shops in their wanderings, enough to be reasonably certain that they can acquire enough chocolates for any purchases they wish to make in the plains. It seems that almost to a one, they are ready to move on. The next place on the short list would be Ham City, which is back up the coast past the Citadel.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Monday March 23rd, 2015 6:13:01 PM
Nikolai keeps a list of the most favored chocolates. Knowing that people's tastes vary, taking a small variety to the Weaver would be better than just taking one kind. At least there, where the Weaver exists, Time is of no import as far as the freshness of the chocolates go and any amount they take should keep well until eaten.
Next day Nikolai confers with his Fist. Do they want to go back to the Citadel and do a Stake Out or go to the next closest city? He'll do whatever the majority wishes as he sees either way just as productive as the other.
If the Fist vote to go back to the Citadel, he will inform the other Fist that they've changed plans to return to the Citadel on their own. Nikolai does not want to be slowed down by the heavy laden wagons.
Of the Fist vote to head to the next city, he informs the other Fist that they've changed their plans not to join them in their return and wishes them well, then leave Wedding City.
For however many days it takes, Nikolai keeps the Fist on their toes with night watches and scouts up front during the day. Might as well keep practicing their skills, right?
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Monday March 23rd, 2015 6:39:48 PM
"I think we should take the opportunity of following the goods back to the Citadel," Pru says. "If that other Fist will allow us to go back with them."
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+7=14 ; Monday March 23rd, 2015 6:52:47 PM
Tinker frowns as he thnks, trying to understand how people work is hard! Finally, he shrugs. "Faragunians usually don't ask questions about people and don't give away secrets. It will be hard to go around looking for criminals without a cover story of the other Fist. I think we should either go with them or go back to the citadel. "
Know Local 14
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 Monday March 23rd, 2015 9:02:00 PM
William is ok either way but prefers to go to the next city. He's not much of an investigator and would prefer some action to monotonous searching...
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Monday March 23rd, 2015 9:02:36 PM " I don't think we have anymore to learn at the Citadel, unless confronting or enlisting Sgt Helmbane opens new leads. I think this Ham City should be our next target, using the cover of purchasing agents looking to supply the fort you were talking about."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Tuesday March 24th, 2015 1:25:25 PM
Michael takes the lessons to heart over discussing rat catching with city employees. maybe he needs to get some sort of legal, or sovereign bona fides to ease the way.
DM Warren Tuesday March 24th, 2015 4:52:04 PM DM OOC: don't want to make any assumptions - let me know what your decision is and i'll make the next post accordingly.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday March 24th, 2015 4:58:58 PM
Tinker shrugs. It doesn't matter to him where they go first, since they will probably go to all of them eventually.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Tuesday March 24th, 2015 6:31:37 PM
Ziel nods in agreement. "Indeed, Sire Jasper. We're wasting time while the problem buries itself in deception."
He turns to Nikolai, saluting almost formally. He thought of it because he's about to point something rather stubborn. "Nikolai, we should move on to Ham City. Our long presence here might gather suspicion. Even if the clues have been here, they're certainly gone by now."
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Tuesday March 24th, 2015 9:27:21 PM "I don't think they were here Checker. Some of the surrounding cities are probably not involved. If the thieves were active in more than one of the surrounding cities then the Fist wouldn't be bleeding supplies, it would be hemorrhaging them. We just need to pick up the trail in the correct city and, um, cauterize the wound." " I think looking for rat problems could help, but advertising we are looking for rat problems will most likely tip our hand. We have the advantage of knowing that this thievery ring has wererats among their number, but they don't know that we know. Several of us were not part of the Agents that brought their ring to task the first time that means that we are complete unknowns to this ring. If we keep the questions on the down low and maybe don't even mention that we are with the Fist we may find more than going in as actual Agents. Perhaps if we pose as the buyers for another mercenary company in the making, and on a budget, we would find suppliers with some goods that we need that, 'fell off a wagon' somewhere and they are selling at a discount. While we do that we scout for an abundance of rats but do it quietly. If they can make a quick resale without having to even uncrate the stuff I think we will be able to get them to come to us." "Worth a try commander?" Jasper lets the idea sink in a little. going about this as a rival company might just work he thinks.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Tuesday March 24th, 2015 9:27:34 PM
Nikolai counts on his fingers the votes for Ham City and the votes for returning to the Citadel and Ham City wins. "Ok, Ham City it is. Maybe Ham city is with pork like Wedding City is with chocolates, let's go see."
Nikolai pays their bill for their stay (DM, let me know what we owe or bill it to the Fist), and they go looking for the other Fist to inform them of their change in plans. Once that is done, they find the road leading to Ham city and start on their way.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Tuesday March 24th, 2015 9:30:57 PM
yeah lets get a move on to ham city. I"m ready to go.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Tuesday March 24th, 2015 9:34:28 PM
Nikolai listens to jasper's idea and it sounds good. Posing as purchasing agents from another mercenary company poses a problem, the likely hood that another one would try to form so close the the Mailed Fist would be very small. However, a lord looking for 'cheap' stuff to outfit his over-budget castle should work very well.
"Let's go with that. I do agree that purchasing agents of the Fist won't get us to any black market stuff. We'll just have to remove our uniforms and keep them at the bottom of our packs."
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Wednesday March 25th, 2015 12:22:46 PM
"Well," says Pru, "If we're leaving Wedding City, could everyone get chocolates who's going to get them? I'm not sure when we'll get a chance to come back here."
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+9=23 ; Wednesday March 25th, 2015 5:20:57 PM
Tinker sighs. "I don't have enough money to buy enough chocolate to get what I would like from the Manfri. We'll have to come back later or I'll forego my opportunity." Tinker as usual is easy to read; he doesn't like it but would give up his reward to help a battle-mate.
Mulling over ideas while on the road to Ham City, Tinker likes the combination. "Purchasing agents of a minor noble who is having trouble making ends meet. We aren't allowed to go into details or neap ordinate the situation. Sounds like a great key to the puzzle. "
Tinker keeps his tail-end Charlie position, watching the back-trail.
Perception 23
DM Warren Wednesday March 25th, 2015 5:40:12 PM
The Agents pay their bills, buy their chocolates, and bid farewell to the other Fist that is staying in town to finish their business.
let me know if anyone else is buying chocolates and how much they would like.
The Agents depart the noise of the city, heading back up the gentle incline towards the Citadel and Ham City beyond. They have a few days of travel ahead of them, but it should be a bit quicker without the wagon in tow. can make it to the citadel in two days if you want to push and chance fatigue, or 3 at a normal pace.
Knowledge: Geography DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Ham City is another 2 days of travel past the Mailed Fist Citadel }
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 d20+8=15 ; Wednesday March 25th, 2015 9:11:12 PM
On the journey, William stays in the middle, making sure he can move quickly to give support wherever's needed...
Know G - 15.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) d20+3=19 ; d20+12=23 ; Wednesday March 25th, 2015 10:09:28 PM
Ziel takes the front, with the hand crossbow cocked and 5 bolts in the strap by his reach. Not many thoughts bother him right now and he's expecting something to break the monotony. Well, except a thought of complaint. "This mission... All these days clueless... I miss not just making bows and working metal, but being 'needed' as well. Or having to solve anything. And to think I was an investigator, yet now don't even know where to start. Or continue."
"Say, anyone, do you enjoy riddles?"
Knowledge Geography= 19 Perception= 23
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Wednesday March 25th, 2015 10:12:43 PM
Jasper rides up and down the line, pretty much wherever his horse wants to go. He was never any good at riding these beasts. At best he could maybe steer it by banging it on the head with his shield. Thankfully it was pretty content to follow the other horses.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+2=19 ; Wednesday March 25th, 2015 11:47:10 PM
Nikolai looks at his paltry sampling of chocolates. He only bought a few of each kind as a taste test. "I'm afraid I don't have enough gold to make it worth the while to blow the whistle."
Knowledge Local +2 = 19
OOC: I didn't realize that going to Ham would mean passing right by the Citadel.
IC: "Hey guys, since we are going to pass right by the Citadel, I suggest I go in, and check with the Quartermaster if there are any shipments heading to Ham any time soon. If so, we could trail it from a safe distance and see what happens. If not, go ahead and go to Ham."
The quick trip into the Citadel and back should take no longer than a couple of hours and the rest can wait outside the city. Unless there is great disapproval of the idea, that is what Nikolai will do.
When the Fist reaches the outskirts of the Citadel town they will make camp. Nikolai will not use the Hat of of Disguise just in case there are magics at the gate that will sound off and spoil everything. Hoping that only one Fist member won't be noticed as much as a whole Fist, he finds Qualtmie and asks about any shipments going to Ham or expected from Ham. With that information he returns to the group for further planning.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Thursday March 26th, 2015 1:23:01 AM I'm Okay with that, we can also check to see if anything more has gone missing since we left, and maybe talk to the Captain about getting some sort of fake credentials or not so fake credentials to ease our way in the next town.
DM Warren Thursday March 26th, 2015 1:42:00 PM
Nikolai settled up with the innkeepers and got his receipt for his eventual report to the Knight Commander. He laments that he doesn't have quite enough cash to buy a significant amount of chocolates. Perhaps some of his comrades could lend him a few coins?
The first day and night of their travel back is uneventful. Some of the Agents are bored, but others could get used to peaceful times such as these. The second day dawns and it looks to be a gorgeous day, apart from a little bit of sun in their eyes as they travel.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+9=23 ; Thursday March 26th, 2015 5:21:25 PM
Tinker sees no reason to hurry along; sometimes you have to conserve energy for when it a needed, he reflects.
The idea of stopping by the Citadel makes sense, and Tinker continues to watch the backtrail.
Perception 23
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+3=23 ; Thursday March 26th, 2015 9:13:03 PM
Control of his horse a distant dream, Jasper simply holds on and tries to notice anything dangerous before it jumps out and tries to eat his face or the faces of his comrades. Perception 23, natural 20
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) d20=20 ; Thursday March 26th, 2015 10:10:17 PM
[OOC: How long will the chocolates last before they go bad? Assuming I don't accidentally sit on them. You know what--never mind.]
Pru silently hands her chocolates to Nikolai. "I don't really need a steelgrass weapon," she says. "Though I wish you'd said something when we were still in the city."
She follows her companions, trying to keep an eye out for anything unusual. [Perception 20]
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) d20+12=29 ; Thursday March 26th, 2015 10:41:50 PM
Still thinking about the proposal, Ziel works something to counter his boredom. Planning new crafting techniques, making riddles, even wondering how every corner of the Citadel is and which passages are hidden. He goes by the front again, enjoying the pleasant landscape. His concentration, however, sweeps every detail as much as he think he can, confident that he will catch something to make the day count.
Perception= 29
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+12=31 ; Thursday March 26th, 2015 10:53:26 PM
OOC: by my memory Pru was the only one that bought any chocolates other than Nikolai's little samples. If I understand it, the whistle is can only be used once. I'd rather use it when everyone has had a chance to purchase the amount of chocolate they want.
Perception +12 = 31
IC: Nikolai looks at the chocolates Pru give him. "Pru, this is so unnecessary... How much is all this worth? Hmm... We could use this chocolate for bartering when we find what we are looking for. I promise you'll get your money back, one way or another."
Although they are on well traveled roads, keeping the Fist sharp is important. They keep to their standard marching order and eyes sharp. Their horsemanship is lacking but that can't be helped, they aren't a cavalry unit after all. He was the only one that grew up around horses and learned how to ride as soon as he could walk, maybe even before that. Anyway, the Fist does fine.
Camping or traveling, they perform their duties as good Fists are trained to do.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+12=31 ; Thursday March 26th, 2015 11:06:27 PM
Michael makes enjoys riding his mule, and he never tires of seeing new places. Although he's traveled this road before, he has never traveled it in this direction! There is still so much to see!
Perception 31.
Hey Zie! I normally use a sling or a staff sling but if you want to practice, why don't you make me a short bow.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Friday March 27th, 2015 12:45:49 AM
Hearing Michael's words, Zieluviet opens a smile. It's as if had finally rained in the desert.
He lowers his head. "Michael, your recognition honors me."
"Please state your preferences. Metal-plated handle, carved image or pyrography, enamels, composite limbs... I've also researched some enchantments, so there's plenty of options. I'll work on the plans for now and execute it once we return to the Citadel."
"I could make it with the same stabilization and the composites as Vynghol. I may even imbue with the same magic, so your arrows will land as long as your volition marks the target. (Just between us, my aim may seem good, but actually half of it is Vynghol.)"
"Or, if you prefer, though it's not as majestic as a fine bow, I could make a sling as well, but I'm not sure on how to imbue it with the magic I know.
Hmmm... this begs further research."
DM Warren Friday March 27th, 2015 4:40:48 PM
The Agents continue to ride in the pleasant day, but it seems that none of them are lulled despite the seemingly peaceful surroundings. Ever vigilant, Ziel and Nikolai, followed shortly by the others, see a fin shaped object moving near to the ground, coming closer and leaving a trail in the dirt behind it. It is a couple of hundred feet away, but closing quickly.
You have approximately 3 rounds before the object will intercept your course at its current speed.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Friday March 27th, 2015 7:37:11 PM " Hmm, what's that over there? It looks like it is coming this way." Japer dismounts, not wanting to be trapped on a horse if something attacks them. He pulls his axe and braces his shield. Its been awhile since I listed spells, so I am going with the ones on my character sheet.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Friday March 27th, 2015 10:07:03 PM
As is her usual habit now, Pru had already cast Extended Mage Armor on herself and Nikolai this morning.
Now, she also dismounts, and grabs her spear. "What is that thing?" she asks her friends.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Saturday March 28th, 2015 1:03:48 AM
I need to know what the terrain is within the 300 yards of our current location. Michael has an inkling of what this might be, his studies in the library tickle his memory a bit, it's right on the edge of consciousness, but will not come to light. He has a feeling though that whatever it is will be very interested in him. Michael dismounts pulls out his rapier and gets a potion of cats grace ready to quaff on round 2. He positions himself so that when the creature comes out of the ground at him, he and his companions will be set to flank it
I don't know what it is but I've got a feeling it isn't friendly, I wonder how it's tracking us being as it's underground and all?
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Saturday March 28th, 2015 1:05:28 AM
ooc: if I quaff the cats grace potion my mod goes from +5 to +7, I'll reflect it on my banner when I take it.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) d20+12=28 ; Saturday March 28th, 2015 1:58:34 AM "Great."
Zieluviet dismounts and takes Vynghol out of the Efficient Quiver and a rope out the saddlebag, placing it around his shoulder.
"When caltrops don't help..."
The Drow scans the area, searching for rocky ground to set a position.
"I'd guess it's some kind of Earth Elemental. But it's quite the speedy! We should lure it to someplace hard. If it can pass through stone as easily, well... I'd rather not fight it."
Ziel also scans for something that he may staple the creature to, assuming it has appendages or something that makes it a valid target. (Perception = 28)
"If someone is feeling brave today, try readying a spear and be quick if this thing attacks from the ground. If it somehow abducts or bies or whatever from below, we will be in trouble."
-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~- OoC: Does Staple Trick can only target garment-using enemies? Can you please clarify me about that feature? By RAW, yeah, it's a very restricted trick shot that can be powerful when one group faces a single valid target by making it spend a standard action breaking the arrow/bolt every turn at the cost of the Sharpshooter's action. In other words, it's an effective control. But the conditions make it so easy to avoid even for a valid target. =( Oh, how those trick shots trouble me...
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+8=15 ; d6+1=2 ; d6+1=2 ; Saturday March 28th, 2015 7:49:51 AM
Tinker rides along, occasionally hearing conversation from the front of the short column. Pru and Nikolai talking chocolates ( the one Tinker bought and set was good!), and Z and Michael talking bows. Tinker's ears perk up at the talk and he considers the serviceable Mailed Fist Issue bow in it's case on his shoulder. It may be nice to get a better one and made by the master Zielvulit, butTinker isn't going to interrupt Michael's excitement just now. Come to think of it, he reflects, Tinker doesn't think he could ever interrupt Michael's enthusiasm about anything! Tinker briefly smiles, which anyone who knows the stoic dwarf would see as a huge grin.
Later in the day, the easy ride is interrupted by... A shark fin cutting through the ground and headed towards the Agents? "What magical beast is this?", he wonders aloud, "I don't know the Nature of such beasts, but any fin in the ground looks like trouble. "
Tinker also dismounts, preferring to fight on the ground, and takes a stance beside Jasper while bracing his Urgrosh to receive a charge. A glance at the older dwarf, and then Tinker looks back to the approaching fin. Trying to break the ice, Tinker grunts then... "Jasper, two days in the saddle and we smell just like our ponies."
Set to receive a charge. AC 15. Dam 4
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 d20+9=16 ; d20+7=25 ; Saturday March 28th, 2015 9:09:34 AM
William sees this creature coming their way and for now, will cast Mage Armor to ensure he's properly defended... He's tempted to summon help, but doesn't want to waste a spell if it isn't hostile...
He'll look for the nearest boulder or tree, and try to move away from the soft ground...
He'll try to reminder what he learned about these types of creatures in his monstrology class... Know (N) = 16, Perc - 25
Next Round (2 left) he'll likely cast summon monster...
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+7=10 ; Saturday March 28th, 2015 10:06:14 PM " Based on how it's following us, smelling like them is probably enough, but let's be sure shall we? Will ye stand with me and draw it's wrath? If so, get that butt spike ready and I'll pull it in." Jasper takes his drawn axe and begins rhythmic rapping the edge of his shield with it. He doesn't know what that beast is, but likely it is tracking them by the rhythmic plod of their mounts and their smell. If that is all it takes then he is now the perfect target for it. He touches his own chest and whispers Flower's name, wrapping himself in her protection (Cast Shield of Faith). He readies an action to swing if and when it charges them. Readied action hits AC 10 (yuck) I think I used up all 3 prep rounds.
DM Warren Monday March 30th, 2015 1:31:19 PM ooc @ Ziel: I would interpret the staple trick only works on enemies wearing clothing. Otherwise, you're just shooting the target, and arrows wouldn't generally penetrate enough to go through the target and into a hard surface.
@Michael - pretty much all around you is gently rising hills going back towards the Citadel. To the north several hundred yard is a cliff dropping down to the beach. Also, thanks for the update when you drink the potion, but note that the max dex on your armor is +6, so your AC will only improve by one.
Most of the Agents haven't a clue what this thing could be, but they assume it's hostile, or are at least prepared for it to be as they dismount and ready their weapons.
William, however, remembers reading about creatures that would be a match for the one in front of them. He wouldn't describe them as hostile, but rather as hungry. For anything and everything. And it doesn't look as if there is anywhere nearby to hide.
another 2 rounds of prep actions - will advance when everyone else has weighed in.
@William: Highlight to display spoiler: { The beast coming at you is a Bulette - bad tempered magical beast often called a land-shark, prefers to approach targets from underground and then leap into the air to pounce on them. }
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Monday March 30th, 2015 7:36:38 PM
Recap, round 1 dismount round 2 Jasper calls upon flower to protect him from the attack he is fairly certain will come next.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday March 30th, 2015 8:35:14 PM
Tinker takes some time while standing beside Jasper to cast Expedious Retrat on himself , and then starts stamping rhythmically while braced for a charge.
"Good idea. WilliAm, you seem to know more about this land shark. What is it?"
.....
Ready Urgrosh to receive charge Expedious retreat
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 d8+2=4 ; Monday March 30th, 2015 9:27:35 PM
William notices the large object and calls out, "Friends, it's not hostile... but it is hungry and I think we're the main entree...."
Round 2 He then describes what he remembers about how to fight it, and them summons Archie the lantern archon. Round 3 - Archie appears and casts "Aid" upon JASPER (Aid grants the target a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and saves against fear effects, + 5 temporary hps (forgot that its CL3, not 2).
ALSO, William moves 5' away from the creature and summons monster 2, calling forth Eddie the Earth Elemental...
________ Spells Cast 1. Mage Armor
2. SM 3 - Archie the Archon 6/7 rounds (Augmented - AC 15, 17 hp, Fort +6, Ref +3, Will +0; +4 vs. poison, +2 resistance vs. evil, DR 10/evil; Immune electricity, petrification; Speed fly 60 ft. (perfect); Ranged 2 light rays +3 ranged touch (1d6), At Will--aid, continual flame, detect evil, greater teleport)
3. SM 2 - Eddie the Small Earth Elemental - 7/7 rounds (Augmented, 17 hp, Fort +4, Ref --1, Will +3, Immune elemental traits, Speed 20 ft., burrow 20 ft., earth glide; Melee slam +8 (1d6+6)/ If earth mastery +9 (1d6+7); Special Attacks = earth mastery (+1 bonus on attack and damage rolls if both it and its foe are touching the ground))
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Monday March 30th, 2015 10:24:56 PM
Ziel feels this battle won't be as he would expect and wonders if he can be of any help beside lodging an arrow in the creature.
Living and letting be, the Drow gets in a good position and this means one that he's less likely to be attacked by a hungry mindless creature, since he's not a good dodger and dislikes armor, but is ready to jump in front of William or Pru should they be threatened, as Ziel can actually withstand some scratches or bites or sundering.
-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~- OoC: I doubt the amount of actions taken in my previous post would be only for one round, so I'm detailing the moving part =)
Here's a recap like David's (except mine also contains 'The Plan'): Round 1: Unmount, draw Vynghol Round 2: Take the Rope, positioning Round 3: ??? Round 4: Profit
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Monday March 30th, 2015 10:57:29 PM
round 1 dismount, draw rapier draw bottle of cats grace round 2 position myself such that team mates may flank creature if I am attacked, or I can flank the creature if Jasper or Tinker are attacked. Between me being a halfling and them making noise it's a toss up. round 3 quaff potion and get ready to rock!
Normally when Michael gets excited he bounces. but when he is on a mission his excitement becomes internal, it fuels the beat, his body is still but his awareness expands, his eyes dilate and his breathing gets deeper. the world seems to slow down as the bony fin gets closer, each moment stretching endlessly into the next.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Monday March 30th, 2015 11:43:21 PM
OOC: I was sure I posted something on Friday but, dang if I didn't! Sorry. :{
Spells in effect: Mage Armor (from Pru, I think she said she'd be casting it on Nikolai every morning or some such thing).
Round 1: IC: Nikolai doesn't know what it is but it isn't hard to figure out what to do. If they don't stop it, that is, if they find a way to escape its notice, it will only go after some other unfortunate and he's not going to have that on his conscious.
"It, whatever it is, probably senses motion through the earth. Dismount and send the horses away, we can catch them later. Then us warriors get in line and stomp our feet. William and Pru stay behind and stay still. We force it to come above ground and hope for the best. If Wiliam and Pru find a rock to stand on or can climb a tree, fine, but otherwise stay behind our stomping feet."
Round 2: now dismounted, he hopes the other fighters from up to his left and right, and he starts stomping his feet.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Tuesday March 31st, 2015 8:27:15 AM
"Better us than the horses," Pru says. "At least we can defend ourselves."
She sends her horse away, and takes up a position near Wiliam. But she also sets her spear against a charge, because you never know.
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 Tuesday March 31st, 2015 8:29:01 PM
William stays near Pru and also lets his horse run away, urging it to make noise to distract the landshark... (Check post...)
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Tuesday March 31st, 2015 10:24:43 PM
OoC: Checking
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+7=19 ; d10+7=14 ; Tuesday March 31st, 2015 10:27:08 PM
Recap, round 1 dismount round 2 Jasper calls upon flower to protect him from the attack he is fairly certain will come next. round 3 Ready an attack vs the monster should it attack us Attack hits AC 19 for 14 damage
Notes Spells prepared underlined spells have been cast Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Light, Purify Food and Drink, CLW(domain), Bless, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Shield Other, Sound Burst
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Tuesday March 31st, 2015 11:56:34 PM
Nikolai draws his kama while he stomps the ground and watches the fin plow through the earth.
"Train one of those and your planting time is cut in half," he comments.
DM Warren Wednesday April 1st, 2015 12:02:18 AM
Sorry guys, time got away from me today and suddenly it's past midnight. Will make it up tomorrow.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+15=34 ; d20+15=30 ; Wednesday April 1st, 2015 12:39:50 AM
Michael is suddenly intrigued by an interesting idea.
Moving as quietly as he can with all the stomping, pounding and shuffling going on. He positions himself so that the fin will pass right beside him. If it passes him by he will grab the fin and attempt to "ride" the beast By grabbing and holding onto the fin. "Oh Wardd, let this happen! What a story to tell!" he prays silently waiting for the fin. Stealth 34 grapple the fin. 30
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Wednesday April 1st, 2015 12:46:39 AM
Ooc. The fin grapple was using my modified dex + acrobatics. If this is incorrect the base was 15 + whatever mod the DM thinks appropriate.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Wednesday April 1st, 2015 11:26:14 AM
OOC Probably an actual grapple, by the rules would work better. D20 plus your CMB vs the Bulette's CMD.
DM Warren - Combat Round 1 d20+17=20 ; d20+12=30 ; d20+12=15 ; d20+12=19 ; d20+12=18 ; 2d6+6=11 ; 2d6+6=14 ; 2d6+6=11 ; 2d6+6=13 ; Wednesday April 1st, 2015 11:26:49 AM William and Prudence have a care for their animals, trying to get them to a safe distance as they are not as able to defend themselves as the two hardy mages. The others think that if they make enough of a distraction, the monster will come to them instead, keeping their horses near for a quick getaway if necessary.
It seems that the mages were right to worry though, as the Land Shark! breaches the ground in a spray of dirt and rocks and lands between the two lead horses. It doesn't even seem to notice the plucky halfling that snagged the fin as it zoomed by. Harder than the snag of the fin though is holding on through the bucking its making as it shreds and swallows huge chunks out of the first two horses in the line. DC21 reflex to maintain your grip - if you do, then it will lose it's dex bonus to you.
The creature seems satiated for barely a moment, before it turns to find itself surrounded by angry Agents that desire revenge for their poor dead mounts.
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+7=17 ; d10+7=15 ; Wednesday April 1st, 2015 4:04:54 PM
Jasper moves quickly and closes the distance between himself and the creature. His axe rises and then falls, skipping off of the creature's tough hide. Attack hits AC 18 for 15 damage
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) d20+11=29 ; d20+11=16 ; d8+2=6 ; d8+2=6 ; Wednesday April 1st, 2015 5:00:04 PM
OoC: I was going to say that Ziel readied an arrow, but it seems I missed the time =( -~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-
The Drow waits for the creature to blast from the earth, even more surprised at it's sheer strength and size. The astonishment makes him lose the focus he had been gathering, and forget the shot he had been planning, but as soon as he regains concentration, Ziel gives it all with two quick successive shots. The arrows' dim lightning is unnoticed given the bright ambiance, with the first giving it's best to pierce the creature's hide (hits AC 29 for 6 damage), but the second lacks this precision ('hits' (gags) AC 16 for 6 damage).
Just after firing the two arrows, Ziel yells, signaling the rope in his shoulder. "Hey, want to take the chance and capture it?"
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Wednesday April 1st, 2015 5:01:19 PM
OoC: Oh damn, forgot the Deadly Aim feat.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+10=14 ; d20+10=15 ; d8=7 ; d6=1 ; d6=2 ; Wednesday April 1st, 2015 6:58:57 PM
Two horses dead in seconds, and the Fist is left to react. Michael is on top and Jasper on one side, so the nimble Tinker seeks to hem the Bulette in. Skipping around the car side, Tinker acrobatically tries to avoid the dangerous mouth and ripping claws before finding an advantageous place for his axe!
Move to far side of Bulette, flanking with Jasper. (50 foot move) Acrobatics 14 Flanking attack. 15. Dam 13. (D8+3Str+ 3sneak)
Ooc. No d20 over 5. Typical. :-(
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 d6=3 ; d8+3=5 ; d20+10=27 ; d20+10=30 ; d6+7=8 ; 5d6(5+2+2+3+4)=16 Wednesday April 1st, 2015 9:35:22 PM
(DM, not sure if there is a map, but:
Option 1 - If William can, he'll shoot a fireball at it, centering it so that only the bulette gets hit and the rest of his party avoids it...) Does 16 dmg, Reflex 16 for 1/2 dmg
Option 2: If William can NOT safely launch a fireball, he'll use up his PoP to cast another SM3, bringing in another lantern archon, Arnold this time....
______________________ Meanwhile, Archie will keep flying clear of the shark and this time he'll touch Erniewith Aid, giving him 5 temp hps +1 to attack rolls, etc)[/b]
Also, Ernie will charge forward and moving into a flanking position, beat on the beast... Hit AC 29 for 8 hps of dmg (ignore 2nd d20 roll, forgot flanking bonus on 1st)
(OOC - JASPER, remember you have some modifiers and temp hps I gave you last turn! ) ________________________________________ Spells Cast 1. Mage Armor
2. SM 3 - Archie the Archon 5/7 rounds (Augmented - AC 15, 17 hp, Fort +6, Ref +3, Will +0; +4 vs. poison, +2 resistance vs. evil, DR 10/evil; Immune electricity, petrification; Speed fly 60 ft. (perfect); Ranged 2 light rays +3 ranged touch (1d6), At Will--aid, continual flame, detect evil, greater teleport)
3. SM 2 - Eddie the Small Earth Elemental - 6/7 rounds (Augmented and Aided, 23 hp, Fort +4, Ref --1, Will +3, Immune elemental traits, Speed 20 ft., burrow 20 ft., earth glide; Melee slam +8 (1d6+6)/ If earth mastery +10 (1d6+7); Special Attacks = earth mastery (+1 bonus on attack and damage rolls if both it and its foe are touching the ground))
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Wednesday April 1st, 2015 9:53:42 PM
OOC I had forgotten but went back and fixed it. Thanks for reminding me 8).
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) 3d4+3=11 ; Wednesday April 1st, 2015 10:16:10 PM
Before Pru can line up a Burning Hands or an Elemental Ray, friend and foe become hopelessly entangled.
"Only one cure for that," she murmurs, and casts Magic Missile at the creature.
[The bulette takes 11 points of force damage.]
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+9=17 ; d6+3=7 ; Wednesday April 1st, 2015 11:04:17 PM
Active spells: mage armor
Most plans don't work out as planned and this one goes in the Failed column.
Capture it? How'll you hang on to it? Nikolai replies while moving into position opposite the creature from Jasper, next to Tinker.
Kama attack +7 +2 (flanking) = 17, dmg = 7
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+13=15 ; d20+11=26 ; d4=3 ; d20+17=34 ; Wednesday April 1st, 2015 11:40:49 PM
A fierce grin splits Michaels face as the powerful jolt travels up his arms when he grabs the fin and locks into it's motion. Standing on the creatures back he hope to thrust his rapier through it's spinal column as soon as he can line up a thrust. But a sudden jerk as it tears out a horses throat causes his grip to slip and
(I don't know if you will let me but I would like to use my attack to re-grab the fin so the narrative would be:)
makes him scramble to get it back. (Acrobatics 34)
(of if I cannot do that)
his perfect thrust which was set to seriously mess up the creatures day, now only scratches the soft skin beneath it's fin. (to hit AC26 3 pts damage. )
(choose whichever one you feel I can do, but Michael will try to maintain his mount as long as possible.
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Thursday April 2nd, 2015 11:56:56 AM
OOC How big is this guy? The MM says it is Huge. If that is the case then Jasper tries very hard to be the first person to move each turn, so he can draw any AoO on his armored form. Also with flanking Jasper's attack would hit AC 20, which I think is still too low to make contact.
DM Warren - Combat Round 1 d20+13=15 ; d20+13=18 ; 2d8+9=16; d20+12=31 ; d20+12=21 ; 2d6+6=13 ; Thursday April 2nd, 2015 9:39:44 PM @Jasper - 15 foot space, and since you moved in first, you didn't have the flank when you made your attack.
Jasper is quick to react to the creature devouring their horses. He is prepared for its attack, but is still thrown off enough to miss his own attack. Tinker is quick to circle around, but perhaps the creature rearing from the arrow in its hide is what causes his attack to miss as well.
William is unable to find a way to use his flashy spell without charring either his friends or more of their horses in addition to the beast. Instead, he brings another ally into the fray, while his earthen friend lands a solid punch.
Nikolai also misses, and Michael's ride is cut short from the beast thrashing about, but he still manages to land a blow with his rapier as he gracefully somersaults onto the ground.
The Land Shark has plenty of targets about and it goes into a frenzy of teeth and claws. It quickly dispatches with Eddie and turns its attention to the armored dwarven nuisance that's trying to beat it with some sort of weapon, though it doesn't manage to get through the metal shell yet.
Bulette - 28 dmg
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+9=23 ; d10+7=17 ; Thursday April 2nd, 2015 10:13:58 PM
With Tinker on the other side of the monster, Jasper puts his back into another swing. However he still fears it is not enough. Attack hits AC 23 for 17damage
DM OOC: I'm assuming you were power attacking? Please note that in your attack details
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) 3d4+3=11 ; Thursday April 2nd, 2015 10:15:05 PM
Wincing a little as her Fist-mates dodge blows from the creature, Pru lets fly another burst of Magic Missiles.
[That's 11 more force damage. At least I'm consistent. :) ]
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) d20+9=22 ; d20+9=25 ; d8+6=7 ; d8+6=14 ; Thursday April 2nd, 2015 10:39:36 PM "Wow, it took the Earth Elemental as fast as that? No way I'm getting the front!"
That's how Zieluviet feels. He never faced a beast like that and wonders if behirs are as fierce, because they're probably quite similar regarding burrowing behavior and size, though he's not sure if this beast is as intelligent as the stories said behirs to be. Thinking about that, Ziel has seen images of these beasts before, though he never searched for what they are.
Nevertheless, the Drow looks for softer spots this time, confident in Vynghol's precision. He draws a bead, then double-strafes the bow for another two sucessive shots.
"Here's a tip for you: A flying steel tip on a shaft."
The first shot barely finds the mark and Zieluviet wonders if it even harmed the creature (Hits AC 22 for 7 damage), while the second shot would make even Vynghol as proud (Hits AC 25 for 14 damage).
He does a small leap (5' step equivalent) behind and retakes archery stance.
"Well, Nikolai, I'm not sure, but don't underestimate the mighty rope and some boldness."
-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~- OoC: Are those rolls correct? From what I recall, unless a creature has Multiattack, all the secondary natural attacks suffer a -5 penalty during an all-out attack.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+10=28 ; d6+3=8 ; Thursday April 2nd, 2015 11:01:19 PM
OOC: whatever the figure is for the secondary attacks, the MM should already include any penalties.
IC: Nikolai usually can hit the side of a barn, but this creature's side is very well armored. Hitting is one thing, penetrating the armor is another. The thing's rending ability prevents any attempt at capture.
Attack (kick) +8 +2(flanking) = 28, dmg = 8
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+17=25 ; d20+11=20 ; Thursday April 2nd, 2015 11:09:19 PM
sticking the landing Michael is on the move. depending on where he lands in relation to the behemoth. If I land near his tail I try and scramble back up to my position at the fin. If I land near the head, I pull a tangle foot bag out of my pocket and toss it in it's mouth. (Bills pants o plenty right pocket for that "extra sticky peanut butter sandwich")
Acrobatics 25 "to hit" AC 20 for the bag toss. ooc: whoever gets the peanut butter sandwich reference wins the no prize.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Friday April 3rd, 2015 1:12:14 AM
OoC: I think I recall some Charlie Brown story where someone (I think it was Patty, maybe) had an issue with sticky peanut butter. Just my guess =P
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+10=19 ; Friday April 3rd, 2015 5:26:23 AM
Tinker is afraid that this armored behemoth is too tough in the hide to easily die, but the Fist is committed now and would be folly to attempt to withdraw. Once again, he finds himself in a situation of win or die. "Then win, dwarf !", he says to himself, and tries to land a blow, missing.
Flanking AC 19
DM Warren - Combat Round 3 Friday April 3rd, 2015 11:41:22 AM OOC: my rolls were correct, and what are you guys doing reading the entry anyway ;-) only William knows anything about the Bulette from the knowledge rolls made, and that's assuming I'm using the base monster.
Any thoughts of capturing the beast are made moot, as the Agents gathered around it beat, slash, and magic the creature into a bloody, pulped mess. Michael is able to save his goo bag as the Bulette falls, though he and Tinker both stick it a couple of times with their blades just to be sure. Things are peaceful for a moment, until they hear a second explosion of rocks and dirt from behind them.
The Agents turn to find a second monster, twin to the first, has leaped from the ground to savage Pru and Williams horses , who were standing at what they had thought to be a safe distance, some 200 feet away.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) d20+7=26 ; d20+7=14 ; d8+5=12 ; d8+5=11 ; Friday April 3rd, 2015 12:29:03 PM
OoC: My apologies. I really thought those attacks had to take the -5 penalty, but the thing came because I remember the DnD3.5 entry for it, and the listed full attack had two claws with such difference. Anyway, I've not really read the PF Bestiary yet, so I'll settle for this one.
200ft you say? That's almost perfect =) -~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-
Ziel glares the other beast's claws and savagery, terrified by the subtlety and violence it attacked.
"Cursed Earthstalkers! Where are those coming from?"
The Drow promptly rises the longbow drawing it above it's eyes, then lowering it to the usual position just before putting the arrow to fly. Immediately, he takes the other arrow in the same grip, quickly placing it in the rest and firing it not as steadily as the first. The first lands to give the beast a shaftly protrusion from it's hide (hits AC 26 for 12 damage) while the second seems to barely bounce off the creature's hide and crashes in the ground close to it ('hits' AC 14 for 11 damage).
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday April 3rd, 2015 8:33:00 PM
Tinker whirls to see the second land-shark explode outward and savage two more horses. The beast is far away, and Tinker isnt sure that fighting this one is a good idea. "Maybe it will be content to just eat those horses?"
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+8=18 ; d10+7=8 ; Friday April 3rd, 2015 8:52:45 PM
Jasper agrees with Tinker's assessment and backs up toward the two remaining horses, readying an attack in case this land shark charges them readied attack hits AC 18 for 8 damage
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 d20+3=7 ; d20+3=4 ; d20+3=20 ; d6=2 ; d20+3=13 ; d6=2 ; Saturday April 4th, 2015 9:02:52 AM
William agrees with Jasper and Tinker's assessment, deciding to double move out of the way to get plenty of room against the creatures....
Meanwhile, both Lantern Archon's will let loose with a flurry of light rays, trying to slash it with their power...
Archie's Light Rays - RANGED TOUCH vs AC 7 (missed); vs. AC 4 (missed) Arnold Light Rays - RANGED TOUCH vs. AC 20 for 2; AC 13 for 2
_________ Spells Cast 1. Mage Armor, SM 2, SM3, Pearl of Power 3rd.
2. SM 3 - Archie the Archon 4/7 rounds (Augmented - AC 15, 17 hp, Fort +6, Ref +3, Will +0; +4 vs. poison, +2 resistance vs. evil, DR 10/evil; Immune electricity, petrification; Speed fly 60 ft. (perfect); Ranged 2 light rays +3 ranged touch (1d6), At Will--aid, continual flame, detect evil, greater teleport)
3. Arnold the Archon 7/7 rounds
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Saturday April 4th, 2015 1:04:02 PM
OOC: well, I didn't look up the stats, but being a DM, i've looked up plenty of monsters and the stats already reflect any penalties or bonuses. The difficulty is when changing the base creature and making sure the update to its abilities are correct. It can be very tricky. Try taking a base creature and making it an Undead!
Spell in effect: mage armor
Nikolai is glad that his Fist didn't just go charging after the second one. He's sad that the horses are being wantonly killed. He likes horses.
"Maybe, but they are Mailed Fist property and I'll defend them as much as I can. Besides, who knows what it will eat next? A poor merchant? Can't let that happen."
He stows his kama and pulls out his crossbow and loads it.
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Saturday April 4th, 2015 4:59:09 PM "I feel yer pain sir, but it ain't our job. Just sayin'. I'm with ye either way, I already prayed that Flower protect me, no need to waste it." Jasper keeps his axe cocked, waiting for the critter to make the next move.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Saturday April 4th, 2015 7:21:19 PM
Pru has nothing that will hit at this distance, and her companions seem content to stay where they are for the moment.
"Oh, those poor horses," she says, but she stays where she is.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC21, T17, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Sunday April 5th, 2015 12:07:19 AM Guys, I don't think we can out run these things. But, I'm willing to try if ya'll are. Thing about it is, If we leave this thing here, it's going to kill the next travelers through this area. We're kind of the only ones with the skills to take care of it.
DM Warren - Combat Round 4 Monday April 6th, 2015 1:44:20 PM
Despite the ease with which the Agents dispatched of the first Bulette, they seem reluctant to approach this one. Perhaps they can whittle it down with their long range firepower while it eats their horses.
It seems satisfied with horsemeat for a moment, but it can't ignore the pricks in its hide. It charges towards the group with as much speed as its stubby legs can muster.
Bulette 2 - 16 damage charges forward 120 feet
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+7=25 ; d8=8 ; Monday April 6th, 2015 2:27:02 PM "That's it. Come on down," Nikolai mutters as he fires his crossbow.
Firing crossbow at target when it reaches the end of its run, 80 feet away.
Bolt attack +7 = 25, dmg = 8
He then drops the crossbow and pulls out his Kama again.
Side-stepping, Zieluviet draws Vynghol as usual, confident that the charge will make things easier, though he still has to raise the arrow more than a straight shot would require. With one arrow on the rest and another readied in his left hand, the Drow double strafes, putting both to fly toward the Bulette.
The first arrow flies amlost perfectly stabilized by the longbow's dampeners that even seems to desire the creature slain. It zooms directly to it with such power and stability that, from where Ziel stands, the nock seems barely visible after the arrow landed (3xCritical Yeah! Confirmed on AC 26 for 23 damage). And the second hits shortly after, not spectacularly, but still with respectable precision (Hits AC 25 for 13 damage).
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+8=21 ; d10+7=13 ; Monday April 6th, 2015 6:02:26 PM
The drow is a splendid shot and Jasper can't help but admire the the bow and the skill with which it is applied. He continues to wait for the oncoming mountain of flesh with his axe. Readied attack hits AC 21 for 13 damage
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) 3d4+3=10 ; Monday April 6th, 2015 6:48:07 PM
Most of Pru's spells are short-range. She makes a mental note to do something about that.
Her Magic Missiles, however, will work at this distance. She fires a volley at the charging beast.
[10 force damage.]
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 d20+5=15 ; d6+2=3 ; d20+3=11 ; d6=2 ; d20+3=20 ; d6=1 ; d20+3=5 ; d20+3=15 ; d6=2 ; Monday April 6th, 2015 8:57:39 PM
William, seeing that his friends are hitting it with some well aimed shots, throws his own acid dart at it...
Acid Dart - Hit TOUCH AC 15 for 3 Acid Dmg
He then moves perpendicular to the charging beast, putting as much space as possible between them...
The duo of Archons fire another set of light rays... Light 1 = Hit RANGED TOUCH AC 11 for 2 Light 2 = Hit RANGED TOUCH AC 20 for 1 Light 3 = Miss RANGED TOUCH AC 5 Light 4 = Hit RANGED TOUCH AC 15 for 2
____________ Spells Cast 1. Mage Armor, SM 2, SM3, Pearl of Power 3rd.
2. SM 3 - Archie the Archon 3/7 rounds (Augmented - AC 15, 17 hp, Fort +6, Ref +3, Will +0; +4 vs. poison, +2 resistance vs. evil, DR 10/evil; Immune electricity, petrification; Speed fly 60 ft. (perfect); Ranged 2 light rays +3 ranged touch (1d6), At Will--aid, continual flame, detect evil, greater teleport)
3. Arnold the Archon 6/7 rounds
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+8=28 ; d20+8=18 ; d6+2=6 ; d6+2=3 ; Monday April 6th, 2015 9:52:49 PM
Tinker settles and waits, he and Jasper being the bulwark between the monster and the rest of the Fist. He sets, ready for the charge...
Ready set for charge: nat 20! Follow AC18
Set v charge = double damage. 9 dam
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+11(4), R+11, CMB+7, CMD+20 d20+11=21 ; Tuesday April 7th, 2015 7:44:46 AM
Michael smoothly pulls a sling bullet out of his left pocket, transfers it to the staff sling and sends it on it's way with as much force as his tiny body can torque out. The shot is good, but it bounces off the armored hide of the beast. Only after taking the shot does Michael realize. They are fighting instead of running. He grins, these guys suit him just fine.
Hey, Zei, maybe you can make some Armor Piercing sling bullets as well? you know, when you are making me that short bow...just sayin'
Michael kind of fell in love with the whole, "tanglefoot bag in the mouth" idea, so he pulls a tanglefoot bag ouf of his pocket and waits on an opportunity to use it as the beast approaches.
ooc: the "extra sticky peanut butter sandwich" quote was from "Peanut butter sandwich" a poem by Shel Silverstein in his book "where the sidewalk ends" I'm shocked, My Mercenary compainion are a bunch of uncultured philistines.
DM Warren - Combat Round 5 Tuesday April 7th, 2015 2:10:26 PM
Several missiles slam into the charging animal, but it hardly slows in its advance. It continues to run towards the group until a distance of about 40 feet, when it plunges its head into the ground and disappears. The movement of the fun through the ground is clear though, and it is still coming towards them.
20 feet away - 70 damage
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) d20+11=15 ; d8+6=7 ; Tuesday April 7th, 2015 3:38:17 PM
Ziel thumbs up for Michael. "You have my word I'll give it a try."
Then takes an arrow from the quiver, holding it in Vynghol and drawing the string a little. He slowly moves backwards, paying attention to the trembling ground.
(Readied attack is the lamest. 'Hits' AC 15 for 7 damage.)
-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~- OoC: Not diminishing the work of Shelby, but I've never came across one of his works. Maybe my father could have hit, but that would be cheating Google level. Anyway, I'm sorry Shane.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+9=19 ; d20+8=12 ; Tuesday April 7th, 2015 5:06:12 PM
The land sharks so far have ignored the group as long as there were horses about. Four horses are dead, and Tinker looks about to see if the remaining horses are nearby or is the only possible target the Fst themselves.
If there are horses in a single movement, Tinker will set up there with a readied attack. If there is not, Tinker starts stamping his feet. "They're gonna come up here I bet, be ready when it does!"
Moving about, Tinker is trying to make as big a target (and hard to hit) as possible.
Perception 19 to see horses
If horse close by; move and ready attack. AC 12
If horse not, stomp and go Full Defensive (+6 AC). AC 26 this round.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Tuesday April 7th, 2015 5:41:16 PM
Pru sets her spear against a charge and hopes for the best.
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+8=10 ; Tuesday April 7th, 2015 7:06:35 PM
Jasper thinks that Tinker's idea is the best for this fight. So, if there are horses nearby he moves to them and readies an attack. If not, he stands where he is, stomping and beating his shieldd as he readies an attack. Either way he misses, by alot.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+7=8 ; Tuesday April 7th, 2015 7:53:26 PM
OOC: Sigh... sorry Shane, never heard of him. :}
IC: "Good idea Tinker," Nikolai chimes in and follows suit.
1) If horses nearby, rush to defend them.
2) If not stomp on the ground.
Readied attack: Kama +7 = 8 ooops
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+11(4), R+11, CMB+7, CMD+20 d20+17=22 ; d20+11=24 ; d4=4 ; 3d6=7 ; Wednesday April 8th, 2015 6:54:03 AM
Michael Charges forward the 20 ft to the fin and attempts to grab it again. I do this for 2 reasons. 1. It gets me away from it's mouth. 2. it gives me a better shot at sticking a sword up it's spine.
Move to the fin (acrobatics) 22 sword in the spine hit AC 24 4 damage. if I get sneak attack +7 +3 bleed /round
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Wednesday April 8th, 2015 3:28:49 PM
OOC Thanks for that roll Jon, Now I don't feel so bad 8).
DM Warren - Combat Round 6 d20+13=20 ; 2d8+9=23 ; Wednesday April 8th, 2015 5:30:54 PM
Either something in his blood must smell similar to the earth that the Bulette is constantly burrowing though, or maybe it's something to do with the arrows that are adding up in its back. Either way, the fin orients itself squarely on Ziel and a huge mouth snaps up from below his feet, savaging his leg. Michael tries to snag the fin as it zooms by, but it proves to be more slippery than that of the other creature.
23 damage and make a Fort Save
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+8=21 ; d10+7=9 ; Wednesday April 8th, 2015 6:23:54 PM
OOC Soooo, relative to everyone else, where is it? IC Jasper takes whatever kind of move he has to to reach the beast and swings, trying to pull it off of the Drow archer. Hit AC 21 for 9 damage and if it was more than 5 feet, provoked an AoO.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+9=27 ; d20+8=13 ; Wednesday April 8th, 2015 7:21:43 PM
"Where is it digging?" Tinker calls and looks in the same breath. "If it only goes through dirt maybe a pile of rocks can keep us safe."
Tinker is worried. He moves to be next to William, Prudence, and Zielvulit. If they are all together, at least they'll be able to strike when it attacks.
Perception 27
Ready. 13. (Rats!)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+7=19 ; d6+3=9 ; Wednesday April 8th, 2015 8:01:17 PM
Spells in effect: mage armor
Nikolai held his action in case it came for him, but it didn't.
Provided the Land Shark is at least within 1 Move from him, he quickly moves over to attack. "Zie, If it is really intent on you, go into Full Defense mode and let us do the attacking. Shout at it or something, to keep it's attention on you."
Kama Att +7 = 19 +2 flanking = 21, dmag = 9
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) d20+2=14 ; d20+8=20 ; d6+1=7 ; Wednesday April 8th, 2015 8:49:33 PM
Fort = 14 Oops =( -~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-
Zieluviet perceives the beast and does his best to hit it, but the arrow he had been saving for it simply falls off as the bulette bursts out of the earth. His reflexes prompt him to fall back, but as he tries, something seems odd and his leg doesn't respond. At first, Ziel feels some of his blood dripping just by the moment and the creature's jaw soon seems to be loosing, then there's no pain...
"Why?"
He puts some effort on trying to keep standing and finds it to be harder than he could manage, if it were not for such a pinch. The shock also frightens Ziel and he can barely hear his allies, but, having heard or not, all he can think is to take it down before he himself falls.
Ziel draws the rapier kept at the side of his quiver and tries as hard as he can to distract it with a stab in the face, hoping it will aid the next attacker on hitting it (Hits AC 20 - flanking, for 7 damage).
"I'm fine! Argh! Not as much, but please make it bleed!"
OoC: Sorry Jon, but I thought we have better chances of dropping it this round than to have +4 AC. If it fully-attacks the way the last one did, high chances that Ziel will be pretty much dead.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 21/44 (Antonio) Wednesday April 8th, 2015 9:03:25 PM
OoC: I've set the hp before posting, but had an internet spike and had to reload the page, but the post header didn't refreshed as I expected.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+11(4), R+11, CMB+7, CMD+20 d20+13=29 ; d4=1 ; 3d6=13 ; Wednesday April 8th, 2015 10:15:09 PM
As the fin slips by him Michael turn and pounds after it, He gets a brief glimps of Zei as the beast rises from the earth until it's bulk obscures him. Michael's practiced eye notices that the creatures armor joins in such a way as to keep dirt from getting in the joints as it tunnels, Michael targets the opening in the armor with his rapier, flanking the creature against Zie.
to hit AC 29 1 point from the rapier 13 from the sneak attack 3 points bleed per round.
ooc; sorry for the wierd post times, with easter and my birthday, it's put me a little behind.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) 3d4+3=11 ; Wednesday April 8th, 2015 11:02:35 PM
With an explosion of rock and dust, the creature attacks! With a flurry of yells and clashing steel, Pru's companions move in to block her view!
It doesn't matter, though. Pru is a sorcerer; she can Magic Missile until the cows come home.
Assuming this thing doesn't eat them first.
[11 more force damage.]
DM Warren - Combat Round 6 d20+13=25 ; Thursday April 9th, 2015 3:40:14 PM
Between Michael's flashing rapier and more well-placed magical energy from Pru, the creature finally breathes its last, but not before offering one last parting shot at Jasper, which narrowly misses. Other than Ziel's heavy breathing from his gashed leg, everything is quiet once more save was only DC12, so you're fine . However, the Agents are down to three horses, which will make getting back to the Citadel a bit less pleasant.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+11(4), R+11, CMB+7, CMD+20 Thursday April 9th, 2015 6:55:01 PM if we can salvage a saddle off of one of the dead horses, we can mount someone on my mule and I'll ride double or walk. Or we could all walk and lug most of one of these things carcass back with us. These things have to be worth something.
Michael draws his rapier from the the beasts innards, and hands Zie a potion of CLW..two of them. He cleans his rapier off and sheaths it. he then takes out his dagger and begins the gristly and grisly! task of flensing the creatures. lets see... eyes, teeth, claws, heart, liver, check the stomach for valuables. oh and the crests.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 27/44 (Antonio) 2d8+1=5 ; Thursday April 9th, 2015 7:59:39 PM
OoC: Drows: making bad use of healing spells/items since 1977 oh yeah, and Warren, I was really thinking if that would be some kind of DC 15+ Fort test to avoid losing consciousness. -~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-
Ziel feels ashamed. Nevertheless, deeply thanks Michael for the potions. The pain was actually making him wish the bulette had taken the leg with it, besides, the Drow felt so unprepared for not having stocked ointments and healing stuff and, to make things even worse, the loss of horses means the group will also be limited in carrying capacity.
At first, he wanted to send one of the beasts to Palance as a memento and the other to Elijaham as a show of the Agent's strength. Too bad he suddenly changed opinion and is rethinking if he really wants to see a behir face to face. Even Vynghol's carved behir looks scary right now.
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d8=8 ; d8=7 ; Thursday April 9th, 2015 8:33:40 PM
OOC When you roll healing roll the dice separately. Ones are rerolled in the Wold. Also each potion would get a +1 to the die roll.
IC " You guys aren't used to having a healer huh? Those potions didn't even stop the bleeding. Let me see that wound." Jasper reaches out and lays his gauntleted hands on Checker's leg. What would be expected as a rough groping with the gauntlets is actually a gentle caress. Positive energy flows through his hands and into the wound, knitting the tissues and reducing the angry swelling of the wound. Ziel heal 18 damage
Notes Spells prepared underlined spells have been cast Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Light, Purify Food and Drink, CLW(domain), Bless, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Shield Other, Sound Burst
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+9=12 Thursday April 9th, 2015 8:57:26 PM
Running about, failing to wound either beast even once, and failing to protect either the more vulnerable Fist members or the poor animals. Except for one or two ideas, a completely dismal performance.
Tinker shakes his head at himself and begins to play with the manacles from his backpack. He will stoically pitch in to help where needed.
With an idea, he checks out the bodies of the land-sharks for any hint of treasure glitter.
Perception 12
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Thursday April 9th, 2015 9:55:24 PM
OoC: That roll was actually an accident two-ways. Lol. That's why it's listing +1 instead of +2 yet there had 2 d8's, but from what I remember, the houserule mentioned healing spells, so I wasn't expecting it to cover potions, even though they are CLW-tonics. Anyway, high chances that the roll was 1d8=2 1d8=2 because you know... healing Drows... -~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-
"Ummm (joint still hurts!)... My thanks, Sire Jasper."
Ziel attempts some steps and (despite the aching) feels refreshed. Maybe Vynghol can be reconciled with. He notices Tinker and will take a chance to have another customer of his bowcraft.
"Hey, Tinker, one moment of yours please... I think we could use more archers, you know... not that I'm not good enough archer or the back line could have more people to take the attacks, but honestly I had death up in my neck and that beast was insanely fast even burrowed. So I thought that if more of us could attack it at range, it would mean more efficiency from free hands while repositioning. Oh yeah, and also more resources and strategies at hand."
He takes a small parchment and a thin charcoal, also signaling to Michael to listen.
"So, Michael is next in the queue. I'm taking requests right now. Tinker, just list your preferences and it will be live at hand as soon as I can spend some days at the workshop. If your taste calls for slings or crossbows of any kind, they can be made as well. I can even try some magic at it, but bows are my speciality in that regard."
Ziel takes a folio from underneath the parchment.
"There's just one term you must abide by. And that is: Never abandon the weapon. You're commited to carry and it unless you give or lend it to someone else." The Drow smiles. "Do we have a deal?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Thursday April 9th, 2015 10:52:13 PM
Nikolai had learned long ago that what set this Fist apart from the others was Independent Thought. That didn't change Nikolai's duty to protect the members of his Fist and issue 'suggestions' he thought would do that. However he simply nods at Zie in acknowledgement of the risk he took.
"It worked. You are One-for-One," he smiles back.
He lets the other members of the Fist take care of dismembering the Land Sharks and saving the good parts. He gets Pru and William to help him remove the tackle and saddles from the dead horses and gather up the loose live ones.
"I can walk just fine, but since more than half of us have to walk, we might as well all walk except for Zie, unless he feels well enough after some healing. The remaining horses can carry the extra saddles and gear and critter parts. And DO find a way to keep those part from stinking up a swarm of flies and buzzards. Those fins, once treated and mounted, would look splendid in our barracks, eh guys?"
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Friday April 10th, 2015 12:59:07 AM
At Nikolai's direction, Pru helps unsaddle the dead horses.
"I can walk," she says, "but I don't 'lug'."
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday April 10th, 2015 5:59:15 AM
Tinker listens intently at Zielvulit and is about to agree when the dark elf says his last warning. "Um, like promising to not drop it on the ground in the middle of a fight? Or more make sure you recover it afterwards? You make fine weapons, but if it a choice between speed to meet a charging enemy and carefully sheathing a weapon ..." The dwarf looks over his shoulder where circumstances kept the shortbow for the fight and back at Zielvulit with uncomprhending eyes. "It's just a tool."
Nikolai's suggestion gets the dwarf moving. The idea of those fins on the wall... He gets his dagger and starts to butchering. "We could all walk, we've done it before. Save the horses for supplies, unneeded equipment like the Fist Issued tack and saddles, and for our prizes."
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Friday April 10th, 2015 3:33:52 PM "Dropping it is fine." Ziel chuckles. "Just don't make it too often. The term is just commitment to not abandon it. You're free to use it to strike an enemy in the face, but if I find that you left it behind and made the work go to waste..." Ziel takes a deep breath, then looks up. "Well, I have no stomach for such disrespect. So, if for some reason you wish to get rid of it, then give it to someone else who may use it. That's the term."
DM Warren - Combat Round 6 d20+8=20 ; Friday April 10th, 2015 6:18:57 PM
Between potions and some magic that isn't bent towards destruction for once, Ziel's injuries are healed. But more important than that, ripping apart the beast for the chance of treasure!
Michael gets down and dirty, ripping out anything that could have monetary, sentimental, or bragging value. Maybe that fin would make a fine trophy on the wall of his room in the fort. If only he knew how to tan the hide! [i]Michael, roll reflex vs DC 20, if you fail, roll fort vs DC12 [i]
The saddles of the mutilated horses are remarkably intact except for some straps that were severed as the Bulettes tore open their mounts' bellies. Tinker feels a bit of personal shame at his poor performance in this battle. Luckily, none of his friends were permanently injured, but he considers how he can step up his game for the next battle. His eyes, however, are quick to sort out the contents of the Bulette's stomachs as Michael opens them up to his sight. What first appears to be some plain black stones among the detritus that filled the stomachs is actually a handful of uncut diamonds. They could be valuable to a gemcutter, and as a raw material may be worth as much as 500 gold!
Ziel ponders the merits of having a stronger ranged presence on the battlefield. Chipping away at the enemy before engaging them directly can make all the difference in a battle. He's determined to complete a bow for his new friend.
Nikolai distributes the load of creature parts and tack on the remaining horses after Pru (and the others) decides that she can deign to walk.
The rest of the journey back to the citadel is uneventful, though the Agents are more tired than they would have been since they were forced to walk most of the way. The southern gates of their home are a welcome sight indeed.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday April 10th, 2015 7:42:27 PM
Tinker's face lights up at Zielvulit's explanation. "Now that is a princely offer and one that I would be glad to accept. For while a tool is not as important as a life, so a life's skill is not as much without a good tool in hand. I promise to take good care of it as it will take good care of me and my battle mates."
But a new bow is a careful consideration and one that will bear careful thought. Tinker's eyes spy the uncut diamonds and with a shout he cleans them off and shows them to his mates. "A pretty days work and we can truthfully say we killed em in self defense. " Tinker could only imagine the trouble they would have gotten in if they hunted down and killed these dangerous animals without a contract!
William the Courageous (Ken) AC 18, hp 30/30 Friday April 10th, 2015 9:53:23 PM
As they near their destination, a rider approaches and gives a message to William. After reading it, he tells his friends that he must leave, as his uncle, Sir Joshua has summoned him home for a family matter. Sadly, he tells his fist mates goodbye and gives Pru a hug. He uses a scroll provided by the rider to teleport home and disappears from sight.
OOC. Friends, as you heard, I have to take my leave from the Wold. Real life family and job situations have gotten so busy that I have to start cutting back, and sadly the Wold is one of many areas I have to give up. I've enjoyed playing with you all these years and getting to know each of you. It's been a real blast! May God the Father bless each of you and may Jesus his son and our savior fill you with his peace and grace as you walk through the hills and valleys of life.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+11(4), R+11, CMB+7, CMD+20 d20+13=20 ; Saturday April 11th, 2015 12:53:58 AM
The work is bloody and the shell is tough even when the creature is dead. He pays attention though and concentrating on the joints and growth joints he is able to get the beasts open. Luckily his dagger is sharp, a duller blade would have made him try to force the blade and he surely would have cut himself. as it was he almost cut himself a few times. reflex save =20
the eyes and all the other "perisable" stuff, put Michael at a loss. He needs a way to keep this stuff cool or cure it for travel, if he was carrying fresh meat they could smoke it for travel, he needs ice..
He shakes the Wizards hand before he leaves, and wishes him safe travels and blessings on his family.
"But...who's going to be the smart one?" she asks, sounding a little lost.
"Ice?" she echoes. "Erm...not very well. I've got the Ray of Frost cantrip. It doesn't do much, but I can cast it as many times as I want."
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Saturday April 11th, 2015 10:39:26 PM
Jasper want's no part in cutting up the monsters. After tending to Checker's wounds he stands guard while the others do their thing. Then he blissfully walks back to the Citadel. Not having to ride is pure happiness for his bruised and battered backside after the last few days of riding.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+11(4), R+11, CMB+7, CMD+20 Sunday April 12th, 2015 2:43:41 PM Yeah, that should work,
Michael take all the bits that could spoil and puts them in a sack, he takes another sack and fills it with grass from the plain they are in. He then puts the fiddly bits sack into the grass sack, making sure he nestles it in the middle of the grass, and obviously using as many sacks as needed to get the job done with all the bits.
Pur can you cast your ray of frost on the outside sacks, if you freeze the moisture in the grass it should keep the meat cool. Maybe since it's not a combat situation, you have some way you could modify the spell to just sort of cool everything down.
ooc: this is one of the things that has always aggrivated me about D&D magic, you can freeze a goblin solid, but you cannot easily make ice for a drink or cool something down in a non violent way. it's too coarse at times.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Sunday April 12th, 2015 11:09:09 PM
OoC: I have a question about crafting. Considering the class Artisan's Gift class feature, which allows for a projectile weapon to be crafted in a week (with the successful Craft check), may I roll for each day accounting for the respective fraction, thus making it possible to make the most of the 'breaks'? Also, I need to clarify if the feature allows it to craft a masterwork weapon in a week or only the 'weapon component' when crafting masterwork weapons.
Thanks for your attention.
DM response: I'll ask on the board and get back to you
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Monday April 13th, 2015 12:47:31 AM
Nikolai is not too tire to slap Tinker on the shoulder and congratulates him for the find of the gems. "Let's just hope the Stable Master doesn't take one of those as payment for the horses." he says, half serious.
He gives William announces his departure after reading the note, Nikolai has a hard time holding back a tear. [b]"We are going to miss you and your summoned friends,"[b] and grasps the Williams' hand real hard.
Finally arriving at the Citadel, or Home, the first thing he does is instruct the Fist to take the horses to the stables. Meanwhile, he sits down to write up his Report and hope his explanation about the loss of the horses is adequate.
DM Warren - Combat Round 6 Monday April 13th, 2015 3:54:26 PM
With some ingenuity and some well utilized spellwork, Pru and Michael are able to preserve the grislier bits until they can reach a place where they can treat them properly. Pru is getting a little mentally fatigued towards the end of the day from casting the same cantrip over and over.
The remaining horses are glad to be away from the scent of carnage, and the closer they come to home, the more eagerly they pull against their leads, ready to be in a familiar stable with good oats and grain instead of what forage they can find on the road.
When William receives his message, there is a round of heartfelt goodbyes, but he doesn't tarry long. Whatever matter came up must be important if his uncle felt the need to but out his contract with the Fist and spring for a costly scroll. Whatever task he is off to, he will not be far from the minds of the rest of the Agents, and he will always have a place among them.
The Stablemaster is none too pleased to hear of the mutilation of four of his herd, but it is the kind of thing that is risked every time a Fist takes to the field. All part of the cost of doing business. He appreciates the return of the tack, but would feel better if he had spare mounts to wear it.
Nikolai prepares to report to Constance the results of their venture, though at this point, he still doesn't have much to tell. Meanwhile, Ziel takes advantage of a free evening to begin work on the bow he had decided to craft. As long as he has his tools with him and takes care to not expose the wood overmuch to the elements until it is properly seasoned, he should be able to work on it during breaks while on the road without any problems. roll your craft check at your convenience
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Monday April 13th, 2015 5:31:17 PM
Jasper, at liberty as far as he can tell goes to watch his son practice at the training grounds. Afterwards he gets some grub, a drink or two and heads to his rack for some welcome rest.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday April 13th, 2015 6:09:46 PM
Tinker shak s hands with William, choosing to remember his good friend and save brooding for later. When the group gets back, he helps with the tack and the. His own equipment, making sure everything's by is repaired and ready in his pack for whenever he needs it before thinking about food. He helps out Michael too, with the land-shark fins. Tinker doesn't know anything about taxidermy but is sure there is someone in the citadel who does!
Know Local. Take 10. 17
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) d20+15=33 ; Monday April 13th, 2015 6:26:45 PM
OoC: Craft (Bowmaking) = 33 That's 13 + 2 from masterwork tools +18 from the roll, which would account for 66gp in one week for crafting the Small Masterwork Composite Shortbow. I wasn't meaning to be able to craft in days of travel, but if that can be, I'm not complaining =D What I meant actually was to simply have the benefits of Artisan's Gift for non-consecutive days of work, so if you come to decide that crafting can't fit in a day of travel, I will have no objections. -~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-
With plenty of work to do, Zieluviet gets to a workshop in the armory and begins the boring process of making shapes for the limbs' curvature. At the same time, some oil is heated and he sets an exhaust for the heat to soften the outer, harder wood. Then, preliminary planning and cuts, adjusting the lengths. It's a boring part the beginning... The handle is tomorrow's target, as well as some press to get the limbs perfectly set in the shape. And get some clamps.
The busy day means no time for the usual night stroll around the Citadel, but Ziel wants to claim a position in the armory on the long run. Ideas to employ steelgrass also begin to shape and the Drow wonders if he will have the honor and the chance to learn from the mysterious Weaver.
There's some expectancy of impressing Palance when she sees the bulette fins. And also, to make Elijaham see what the Agents can spontaneously do. It can't be helped... Ziel was envious at first of his position, deeds and attitude... and the Drow believes he will feel better by making Elijaham's team feel inferior to the Agents. When talking about competitiveness, Drows seem to take it too seriously, and to worsen things, Zieluviet felt his pride was jeopardized that day.
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Monday April 13th, 2015 7:38:56 PM
OOC So 49.5 gp of the 75 gp of the composite bow component. I guess you were correct when you said you could make a bow in about a week, if it were a normal shortbow. I stand corrected. The masterwork part will take considerably longer though.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Monday April 13th, 2015 10:11:08 PM
After a quick bath to wash off the trail dust, Pru heads for bed, hoping some rest will cure the throbbing headache.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Monday April 13th, 2015 10:43:50 PM
OoC: Yeah, that would be the case if the shortbow were to be crafted the 'regular way', but my hope is this lv1 Sharpshootery thingy:
Highlight to display spoiler: {Artisan's Gift (Ex): Sharpshooters are especially proficient with weapons that they make themselves, using their own crafting ability. They can craft (not enchant) any projectile weapon with a successful craft skill check and a single week of work. When using a projectile weapon that he has made himself, the Sharpshooter receives a bonus to attack rolls (but not to damage rolls) equal to one third of his appropriate Craft ranks (round down) plus 1. For slings and crossbows, use Craft (Weaponsmith) ranks; for bows, use Craft (Bowyer) ranks. This bonus is referred to as his Artisan's Gift and stacks with all other modifiers to attack rolls. A sharpshooter loses this bonus when using weapons another has enchanted, even if he originally made it. He also loses this bonus when wearing armor heavier than light.}
And it's also possible to increase the DC by 10 to make it faster. The trump will be get that Woldian item Vedik's Circlet of Focus, that can increase one Craft by 5 for the lesser version, though the circlet's best features would be wasted in this scenario... Well, they did say I would have a hard time playing a non-spellcasting crafter anyway (Hello chunk of mithril, this is my friend Fabricate. Care to be made into a Mithral Full Plate 12 million times faster than the 'average' master armorsmith would take?). Good thing the class has plenty of flavor.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+11(4), R+11, CMB+7, CMD+20 Monday April 13th, 2015 11:04:57 PM
after tending to his mule, squaring his stuff away and checking in, Michael head to the portal to the catacombs to see what land shark parts might fetch at the market.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Tuesday April 14th, 2015 12:47:32 AM
Nikolai's report really does not say much. He isn't sure how much he can trust who all reads the reports. He simply states that affairs went as expected and planned except for an attack by creatures commonly known as Land Sharks. Their fins are now trophies on their barracks wall.
A good rest and then some planning. What to do next?
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Tuesday April 14th, 2015 9:24:27 PM
If Nikolai asks Jasper recommends solidifying their cover story including who is doing the talking in the next city when they pose as purchasers for a lord's army.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Tuesday April 14th, 2015 11:46:52 PM
Pru has a little trouble falling asleep, but she persists. She runs over in her head all they have found out about the thefts. It is a depressingly short list. She turns to counting sheep instead.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Wednesday April 15th, 2015 12:23:25 AM
Nikolai figures this would be a good time to do some better planning. Instead of just heading to a city and looking around, find out when the next shipments are leaving and where they are going. From that, find out who the escorts are going to be and if they are they usual ones for that run. They can then pick one to follow and see what happens.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Wednesday April 15th, 2015 1:46:55 AM
back from the portal, gets rid of the offal that could rot. he keeps the teeth, claws and crests, He thinks he might makes adornments for the crew with them.
You know Nikolai, we might have been going about this backwards, I think that since the thefts are happening here, here is where we need to be looking. we need a way to set up some sort of Canary trap...Hey that may be it! Okay...let me see if I can explain this to everybody.
We have just returned from a mission, our story could be anything. so we make up a story, several in fact. We know that thieves have a man on the inside. we even have an idea who, so our story is like this, we just returned from a heck of mission, we just intercepted a payroll caravan from Aisildur, taking payroll to a bunch of Ga'als chosen who have been giving Weddin City some trouble. There was this chest, we couldn't get it open, but man was it heavy for such a small size, but judging from what William was able to find out, it's got to have more than 100,000 gold pieces in it. He's gone to Eyrie to find a mage with the skill to open the chest. He should be back here in about a week to get it open. strange thing though,, I wonder why they would paint the chest (blue, yellow, red). any way we put it in the quartermasters for safe keeping.
we tell this story to whomever we suspect of being complicit with the thefts. but before we do we get three small chests filled with lead a continual light spell and sovereign glued shut, we paint each chest a different color and we put all three chests in the quartermasters storage. when one of the chests goes missing it will narrow down the field to who we are looking for. I don't know maybe we can get some way of tracking the chest, but that's beyond me.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Wednesday April 15th, 2015 3:56:49 AM
Ziel returns late from the armory with the face between bored and focused, catching up with the discussion about the mission, which is evidently more important than thoughts about pride and bow designing/making.
"Sounds good. You could also add a bit of flour or some diluted syrup, just a little bit and pierce a small hole underneath it. Something hard to notice. The flour or sweet syrup may not be enough to track by eye, so they won't see it at the time, but if it happens to make a trail, in a few hours, some ants will do the job of tracking them for us. And finding a trail of ants is easy enough."
The Drow rubs his forehead. "Oh, right, that's considering they use a slower, hidden route. If they take it to a cart, then the trail won't take us too far."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Wednesday April 15th, 2015 7:35:45 AM
[b] the continual light spell will give the chests a magic aura, making them very heavy will ensure that they only take the right color chest, and gluing them shut will make it seem like they are wizard locked. whichever chest is missing, that's the person we lean on. If we can track the chest, or when we go outside the citadel, if we find the chest, that is a positive indication that we are in the correct place. although absence of the chest does not correlate to being in the wrong place.
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+5=7 ; Wednesday April 15th, 2015 11:14:25 AM "There are good points to that plan and bad points. Let me explain." "The good parts are that if the thefts are happening inside the Citadel, we would have a good chance of the thieves being tempted by a score that large. Your idea to color code the chests and tell specific people we suspect about specific colors of chest being the right one could pretty well help determine who is the thief. Your ideas of how and what to do to make the chests seem valuable seem sound as well." " The down side I see is we are already inside and didn't offload the 'heavy' chests from the few mounts we returned with. Any spy or thief worth his salt would know that. If we were to persue another lead and return in a week or so with the chests, then we could complete the ruse more easily." " Second, you cover story needs work. I don't know much about Ga'al, but what I do know is that his best and brightest don't follow him for monetary rewards. They surrender themselves to his will and abandon any will of their own. They concede that Ga'al knows best what is right for them, for their neighbors and for all of Alsidur. All of the taxes and fines on the unheartseeded that remain is Alsidur are not to raise funds, though they do that as well, but to push any that would disobey Ga'al or his heartseeded out of the country. If there is no one there to speak against the evil that Ga'al decides to perpetrate, then the evil will continue." Jasper shakes himself, throwing off the anger and yes, fear he feels for people like that. The smile returns to his face and he tries to make the plan better. " I have heard of people using magic to locate a certain object that they are familiar with. I am not powerful enough to do this, but with a scroll I might be able to track your chests that way. Or maybe Prudence knows this spell. We will have to ask her." Assuming we are not disturbing Pru's rest to talk about this in the barracks while she tries to sleep 8).
DM Warren Wednesday April 15th, 2015 11:25:31 AM
Apologies for yesterday, didn't have access to a computer all day.
I should clarify - I didn't mean you could craft while traveling, but if you have your tools while you're adventuring and you have free time, you can spend it working on the bow. So yes, non-consecutive days count.
Tinker doesn't know much about tanning, but he can certainly follow his nose to where the leatherworkers in the citadel have their shops. The fins can be preserved easily, but it will cost a gold piece for the pair, unless he wants them mounted as well.
Michael goes to investigate what parts of the Bulette's would be worth. Unfortunately, other than trophies, they aren't worth much. They creatures that went into creating it are too polluted to be used for food, and the demon blood used in the process is too diluted to be extracted in any useful amounts. The mage's school may be interested for the purposes of anatomy studies and theory on creation of beasts, but in chunks, they aren't of much value.
After unwinding after their travels, the Agents get back to plotting, hoping to uncover some more information before going on another wild rat chase.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Wednesday April 15th, 2015 12:34:20 PM
When apprised of the plan, Pru is skeptical. "But how do we know they'll take the bait?" she asks. "I mean, they haven't taken anything big and conspicuous before, have they? It's all been supplies and things. Stuff we have lots of. Nothing unique. That's why it took a while to even realize that stuff was going missing. So why would they take a unique chest that would be missed immediately? Even if we make it really tempting for them, I'm not sure they'll go for it."
"Also...." she hesitates, and goes on. "Also, this plan calls for a lot of magic. With William gone, we may have to re-think how we do magic stuff. Arcane magic, I mean. I'm sure Jasper does the priestly magic just fine."
"But, see, I'm a sorcerer, not a wizard. I don't have a spellbook. I don't know very many spells. Here are the spells I know:" she ticks them off on her fingers. "Dancing Lights, Detect Magic, Message, Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost, Read Magic, Burning Hands, Endure Elements, Mage Armor, Magic Missile, Ray of Enfeeblement, Invisibility, Protection from Arrows, and Scorching Ray." She spreads her hands. "That's it. That's all I've got. And I probably won't be able to learn another one for a couple of months. So if we need me to cast anything else, we'll need to get a scroll of it. And that means a trip to the Catacombs."
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday April 15th, 2015 5:50:02 PM
Tinker chips on the gold piece without a thought. A pair of those fins on the wall of the barracks will look great for visitors!
Coming back for the planning, the dwarf at first is warm to Michael's idea and then sours as Jasper puts holes in it. "A couple days rest once back from a mission would be normal for us. We have that much time to come up with a plan. And if we don't , we go to The next city and get the boxes before we come back "
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Thursday April 16th, 2015 7:57:25 AM Valid points Father Steelfist..a moment...Prudence, i did not know that you did not need a spellbook, you just do that with raw ability? That is freaking AWESOME!
As to the Asildurians not needing payroll, you are partially correct. When operating outside asildur, you have to be able to purchase supplies, grease palms and such. If it was a clandestine force working to undermine wedding city preface to an invasion, large cash transactions could also be used to finance rebels and irregular troops.
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Thursday April 16th, 2015 12:03:40 PM "True, that is a good point. Nonbelievers would need payment. If they were smart though they would understand that eventually it would be convert or most likely die." " It is a workable plan, we just need to refine it a bit."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Thursday April 16th, 2015 2:24:10 PM and to answer Pru's question about the probability of them taking the chest. Thieves cannot pass by thenopportunity of a big score. Let me put it like this. They are making a fair profit sneaking stuff out of the citadel, but they have to know that every time they do, they inch a bit closer to being caught. They dont know when though. A big score, landed right in their lap will be a huge temptation. Take the big score, then cut and run. It has to look real though, they will already suspect a trap. Hrumph....you know if we can make them believe it, we might not need the colored chests. The mole will probably absconde with the rest, cause he would know that the hammer will fall after something like that.
DM Warren - Back to the drawing board Thursday April 16th, 2015 3:51:29 PM
The Agents, not satisfied with the results of their previous excursion, sit down to discuss what they should try next, and how they can have a more successful operation. Good points are made all around, but it seems like it again falls to Nikolai to make the final decision.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Thursday April 16th, 2015 5:57:45 PM
OOC: Sorry, oops. Had to be at work at 4am and was trying to do my DM post. Didn't get either. :(
IC: Nikolai decides that going blind is not a good use of their time. "I'm going over to the Quartermasters, maybe disguised as a merchant, and find out what are the next shipments, when, and where. I don't think the thieves are going after such mundane items as food so no point in chasing after those shipments."
Nikolai tries several 'merchant' looks with input from his Fist. Once satisfied, he leaves the barracks as Nikolai but at a spot where he can be unobserved, changes into the Master Merchant Hossennffeffer and heads to the Quartermasters. He pretends to inquire on supply demands so he can adequately stock his warehouses but when given the chance (when no one is around, even the help) he gives a signal to Qualtmie to let her know it is Nikolai and proceeds to ask for a detail of the next incoming and outgoing shipments and their contents.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday April 16th, 2015 6:27:26 PM
Tinker decides that if they are going to be at the Citadel for another day, then perhaps another look at the area is in order. " Nikolai, I'm gonna see if I can't find any more secret entrances in the walls of the Citadel. I'll say that my Fost tasked me to study up on fortifications which would be all the excuse needed for a day of walking outside the Citadel and staring at the walls. "
Waiting to see if that is a good plan as any, Tinker then caries it out the next morning. If questioned, Tinker grumbles about hard-nosed sergeants and their inability to listen to the reasoning of perfectly good troopers.
Perception to notice unusual stonework, traps, hidden doors when passing within 10' (+11) Tinker carefully looks at the outside walls of the Citadel, take 10= 21 perception.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) d20+8=26 ; Thursday April 16th, 2015 7:17:31 PM
"All right, let's give it a try." Pru says. "There's a spell called Arcane Mark. It's only a cantrip, really, but I don't know it so I'd need a scroll. The scroll wouldn't be very expensive, though. We could put an Arcane Mark on the chest, which would serve two purposes. It would help us find and recognize the chest again, and it would make the chest detect as magic, which we want in order to tempt them to take it."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Thursday April 16th, 2015 9:13:44 PM thats a good idea Pru! I would go get it for you but im gold poor after I bought all this gear. I was hoping the land shark parts would net me a hot cash injection...but it was not to be..."zhis iz not zee butcher"...pasty faced blood sucking walking corpse, look down your nose at me will ya...well okay..i know he can't help it...but still.
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Friday April 17th, 2015 12:18:01 AM
Ziel reminds Pru and Michael that most of his goldies are at their service to execute any plan they come with (mainly because the Drow desires nothing that money can buy anyway - and any guesses will be probably wrong) and asks for any accompaniment to stock some Potions of Cure Light Wounds because the bulettes' attack taught him that lesson the hard way.
Checking in the workshop, the Drow mounts the press and shapes, then heats the would-be limbs parts so they get soft as before, but this time they'll be pressed with resin carefully placed in points of minimal tension when arched. The middle is filed and marked to receive the handle afterwards. As the excess resin begins to escape the wood, Zieluviet scraps it so it doesn't take a full day of sanding (and to make sure wherever has to be attached is indeed).
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+9=14 ; Friday April 17th, 2015 1:47:59 AM " I've worked plenty of stone in my day, mind if I tag along while you inspect the wall Tinker? If something bad should happen like you find a hidden door and it is in use when you do, at least you will have some backup." Jasper's eye, though trained is less sharp than Tinker's. Take 10 on perception 13, 15 with Stone cunning Profession Stonemason 14, 16 if it is modified at all by Stone cunning. (19 and 21 if just taking 10)
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday April 17th, 2015 5:36:51 AM
Tinker nods at Jasper,"the ruse should work as well with two as long as Nikolai backs it up if he is asked".
As to the box plan, the young dwarf thinks of an idea. "If we want them to have a heavy box and a hard time opening it, we could commission a carving that looks like a box in another city. No need for the lead because it will be solid and no need for the Glue because it couldn't be opened anyways. ". He ponders for aoment and snorts. "By Ffloy, we could shape it because it doesn't have to look like anything other than exotic and box-like."
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Friday April 17th, 2015 1:16:09 PM " Having seen you work with your locks and puzzles, I feel confident that you can help make an unopenable box look convincing. I like this idea. Also the box will be unique and able to be tracked with locating spells. An excellent refinement to the plan."
DM Warren - Back to the drawing board Friday April 17th, 2015 8:59:52 PM
Plans are refined by Michael and Pru in the barracks and decisions are made. Other Agents have things to keep them busy.
Nikolai tips off Qualtmie once he is able to catch her alone, and she is more than happy to go over shipment information with him. I don't know how much help this will be though. I haven't let any books go by without my personal inspection, and maybe the increased inspection has scared them off. In any case, nothing has been disappearing lately.
There is however a quite large shipment of goods going out to Isumbre to help continue the outfitting of the Shark Company.
Ziel is an impressive sight in the weapons shop. He is obviously a master of his craft, and the pieces of bow are coming together.
Jasper and Tinker apply their dwarven senses to the wall, but it is as solid an edifice as the Fist could build. They patrol both sides, and there is nowhere on the entire length that a secret entrance could be concealed.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Friday April 17th, 2015 11:51:57 PM
with the meeting broken up, Michael goes and gets a bath, He then wanders the citadel looking for things out of place, thinking about what he would do if he were to steal from this place.
ooc: since I cannot actually see the citadel, and I do not actually have ranks in thieving skills I'm going to ask some yes or no questions.
Perception 24
Do I as a rogue think that it would be possible to smuggle stuff out of here with out a man on the inside?
does the guard system setup present holes that could be exploited?
These are not a yes/no questions but they are things that I think we would know.
What items have been stolen from the citadel?
Were the items checked into the citadel? or were they missing from the bill of lading when the items arrived?
when were the items reported missing? how long after delivery? is there a pattern?
when did the thefts start? does it correspond with any new arrivals of troops to the citadel?
any other questions that anybody has, lay them on this is a chance to get them answered.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Saturday April 18th, 2015 1:00:31 AM
Nikolai ask Qualtmie if she knows who is in charge of the shipment and who is escorting it. Following along with the idea of planting a false box, he asks to see the boxes so they can make a copy for their tracking purposes. He'll develop that plan further later on when the Fist are together that night.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Saturday April 18th, 2015 8:03:56 AM OOC. Everyone please read the new Mailed Fist. Three huge changes are: - Biggest units are Companies, not Regiments. The Mailed Fist is less than 3000 mercenaries now. - Moral ambiguity is mostly gone. The Mailed Fist won't fight for people they know are on the wrong side. - Benefits have changed A LOT! The DMs will be giving us a timeline on when to convert our PC sheets. ...................
tramping around the walls all day in the sun is both boring and hot; well deserved to be called work. No one seemed to question why Tinker and Jasper were doing this exercise either, which makes Tinker conclude that there was no one who saw them and we're trying to keep something secret either.
Still, a day verifying a possibility does not exist is still a piece of a puzzle. What's more, a day of being together, not talking much nor looking at each other seemed to make friends of Jasper, solidifying the battle mates earlier shoulder to shoulder stand against the land-sharks.
Tinker gives a self satisfied smile. It was a good day.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Saturday April 18th, 2015 6:20:22 PM
Nikolai; ask Q about the warehouse mark.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Sunday April 19th, 2015 4:41:34 PM
"So...am I getting a scroll of Acrcane Mark? Are we decided?" Pru asks her companions.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Sunday April 19th, 2015 11:51:25 PM
I'm all for it.
DM Warren - Back to the drawing board Monday April 20th, 2015 4:33:28 PM
Michael looks around the Citadel in general, trying to determine how he would sneak weapons, armor, and general supplies out of the grounds. The walls are solid, the guards are alert, and there are regular shift changes with duty rosters easily accessible. There don't seem to be any holes that he can see.
Looking back through their notes, Michael can see that goods that are manufactured in the Citadel have been disappearing from the storehouses, and things being shipped out arrive at their destination lighter, though the actual delivery personnel have been cleared from the suspects list.
The problem seemed to have stopped after the Agents dispatched with some wererats before Michael joined. They have since started up again. There seems to be no pattern to the thefts. Whomever is behind it seems better at covering their tracks than the last culprits.
Qualtmie is able to provide names and times of the next shipment, and asks Nikolai what he wants to know about the warehouse marker.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Monday April 20th, 2015 9:24:16 PM
"All right; I'll be back soon," Pru says. She departs for the Catacombs.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday April 20th, 2015 9:25:57 PM
Tinker listens to Michael going over their notes and wonders if the box is even going to work because only stuff manufactured in the Citadel seems to become missing. Missing from storehouses and wagons. He shakes his head, the dwarf unable to come up with a solution to the puzzle.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Monday April 20th, 2015 9:53:32 PM " If we can't figure out a pattern, then we are going to be very busy following shipments until we see something fishy. What are we missing?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Monday April 20th, 2015 11:08:36 PM "Hmm... Thanks, Qualtmie. About the warehouse marks. Do each warehouse at each destination have a unique mark? Do you know them all?" and he describes the mark they saw on the boxes from the warehouse outside the Citadel that they raided.
Back at the barracks, Nikolai describes his meeting with Qualtmie and the names and times of the next shipment. "Let's look over these and pick the one most likely to be raided. I suggest following it at a distance and hidden. Something is happening to them in route that the escort Fist don't notice. Are they being put to sleep by magic at some point? Are they being charmed somewhere on the way? Being with them won't work. We need to trail them like we trailed the gnolls and see what happens, keeping an eye out for others trailing them too. I know it is a long shot, but we have to start somewhere. Other ideas?"
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Tuesday April 21st, 2015 11:17:49 AM Alright, the culprits are being very cautious, we need to know what the warehouse marker means, the thieves have to have a man on the inside. If it were me, I'd roll dice or flip coins to keep my thefts as random as possible. I would say look for a guy with dice, but...well...soldiers you know. the shipments are leaving here intact, but they are arriving at their destination light. this means that they are either getting filched en route, the warehouse man and the guy holding the bill of lading are complicit, or the bill of lading is wrong on the front end. No love there. At the same time we have material going missing from our warehouses, at random intervals as well. Could someone be padding the shipments going out with material from the warehouses and the the agents on the outside take it in and then say the shipment is light to pull attention away from the warehouse thefts? it's a bit convoluted, but maybe it's possible. It does tie all of it together in a nice neat package though. first thing we need to do is start working to figure out 1. who inspects and confirms the load out and bills of lading. I know it's Q's job, but maybe she has a helper or has a thumb do it. I need to know more about Logistics SOP for this. 2. we need to find our if there are certain way points that the transporters stop at from time to time. 3. I"m thinking that the wizard mark spell, if it can be tracked, should go on something that the thieves would like to steal. that way we can follow it. 4. is there a magical component to all of this? could they have a mage working for them cloaking their movements? gaining them access? is there a way to check?
sorry guys I'm just brainstorming here,
DM Warren - Back to the drawing board Tuesday April 21st, 2015 12:47:48 PM
Qualtmie says that she knows of several shipping marks, but is only really familiar with those that she works with on a regular basis. There are dozens or companies that transport goods in just this area. The one that the rats had had stamped on their crates was not one that she has seen before, so it's likely not from Wedding City or Ham City, where most of the goods that come to the Citadel are routed through.
Meanwhile, the Agents refine their plans, Pru goes shopping, and Nikolai proposes the next step in their investigation. Whatever they want to do, they need to do it quickly if they want to trail the shipment to Isumbre leaving the next day.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday April 21st, 2015 7:03:58 PM
Tinker is willing to support any plan by his battle mates because he is completely out of ideas.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Tuesday April 21st, 2015 8:58:05 PM
Pru returns from the Catacombs with three Arcane Mark scrolls. "Just let me know when you want me to cast them," she says. "Or are we still doing a decoy chest? Do you want to follow the shipment instead?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Tuesday April 21st, 2015 10:31:26 PM
Nikolai builds upon what Michael laid out. "If Qualtmie verifies that the crates are intact when they leave here, then some switch-aroo is happening while en route, either at some warehouse way point or on the road itself. If the thieves are smart, they'll not attempt anything here since they'll figure the Citadel will be on its toes. So our objective is to find out if it is happening in a warehouse somewhere between here and its final destination or on the way. My suspicions are that the crates are being switched out at some in-between warehouse, but we can't rule out some switch-aroo on the way either. So mu suggestion is to prepare for a long trip tailing this next shipment and staking out wherever it ends up," Nikolai smiles confidently.
Meanwhile, he ponders the appropriate use of the scrolls Pru got.
"Pru, how long does the spell last? Long enough for a trip? If we managed to sneak into and remain hidden in the warehouse, that might be the time to place the marks. At least my plan counts on us being able to get into the warehouse and hide, watching the crates."
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 2:23:43 AM
For Zieluviet, hours are spent at the workshop. The handle is sculpted in true Rosewood and the front of the finished limbs is Red Ipe, while the back is Yew, making a composite of both woods to harness the tension at its finest. There's still a lot of work to do, as the stabilizers and dampeners the Drow designed still have to be crafted and installed, then preliminary adjustments before it can even be strung for the first time. This day, however, is reserved for that handle, whose shape is to become as perfect and balanced as it can be. The arrow rest is carved then filed, first roughly, then aligned in reference to the limbs.
By the end of the day, the handle is ready to receive a coat of sealing resin. The limbs are heated in the presses to fixate the shape and melt again, infiltrating deeper into the pores and causing both woods to almost fuse at the joint surface.
By exercising the craft, Ziel questions if his talent for bowmaking should be really exchanged for dangerous and uncertain adventures. He keeps this question for further thought and expects to present it to the group when the opportunity arrives.
-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~- OoC: I'm announcing my leave. Please know that it's not personal. However, I've been feeling here is not where I belong to, then interest began to drop and I finally couldn't take it anymore. Bet you were expecting it, so I'll have to make a surprise =)
I apologize for leaving like that, but since there's so few players in a game with this much time already, I'd also feel guilty for abandoning and 'endangering' the game even more. This means I'll only leave with Warren and Ken's permission or a slow and crazy campaign-friendly method. Just keep in mind that my leave is imminent.
Some things I dare to point: lack of trust, lack of content (plus, BGC gives off an impression of unfriendliness), unbalanced foundation (read as impossibility of basic achievements without optimization or high-tier classes) and, finally, a take on morality that I, personally, would rather avoid. The latter is more about personal likes and, as example, the reason for why Agents of the Fist was my choice was actually because it seemed to break from the simpleton Woldian morality (please forgive my rudeness). I do not like this Manichaeism and we all know that the meaning of morality can't be ascertained yet. And then to make simply everything play the A is right because it's good, B is wrong because it's evil. Oh heck, can something made by men be free from evil ends? To answer that, remember to differentiate hypotheticals from facts and be surprised that it's still not hard to deduce what I want you to think.
Maybe it all means a lot more to you, who have accompanied these games for longer, but for me, the take on Woldian history, myths and folklore seemed too fantastic and 'pretty' to be enjoyable. Refitting the mercenaries to refuse gold from who's in "the wrong side". So this 'wrong side' means evil? Do you really want to tell about justifiable evil that doesn't fall into the Neutrals basket? To be honest, I don't believe every tyranny to be evil, nor liberty to be good. They're just two sides of the same coin, facing opposite directions. One is despair for peace, the other is willingness to battle. Liberty/Freedom is nothing but a need. If someone doesn't feel the need for it, anything, from weakness to trust, can be pinned on it.
History already tells of stealing 'for the good', but that's bull. Anything succeeding a capital sin can be seen as evil, and the fun part (oh, fun...) is that a response from someone aside the primary subject also 'shows colors of evil'. Killing an evil perpetrator, for example, is by no means a good act. It may just fall into the logical category, which I would put as an evil act with a productive purpose. Then there's the leges imperfectae that keep sprouting in attempt to mend as much as all the broken concepts that come from assumption of a poorly made morality.
Whew, I may have gotten somewhat angry. I'm sorry. This matter deeply depresses me =(
Again, personally, I've came to reject alignment since it's as illogical as it is. I challenge you to justify it if you like, but alignment as it is in D&D/PF and almost everywhere else is seriously flawed. Your own arguments will carry what is needed to rectify them.
I do, however, like to discuss about it =)
Anyway, I do not regret playing under Ken and Warren and alongside you. Everyone treated me well and I knew it would be like this. I'm glad for being invited and will gladly keep contact with any who wishes for it. The choice is up to you.
DM Ken Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 9:37:00 AM
DM Ken: OOC
Thanks for your time Antonio. Now is as good a place to exit as any. The Wold isn't for everyone. The restrictions on language, alignment, and content generally frustrate some players who are used to either edgier, optimized, or realism based gaming.
We will move you to inactive and wish you the best.
In regards to the BGC, if you would please, explain what part you found to be unfriendly? Was it an experience you had or the rules as laid out?
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 12:53:07 PM
Jasper agrees with Nikolai's ideas, but reminds the thumb that he is in no way stealthy. " I'm old, short and encased in enough metal to make a potbellied stove big enough to heat a lodge. I can move right well enough to not trip over myself, but stealth is a dream I never entertain. Still, your plan makes good sense and I will help in any way I can."
Zieluviet Iezerth - AC 17 (TAC 14, FF 13) HP 44/44 (Antonio) Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 4:01:59 PM
OoC: I will answer about BGC via e-mail.
DM Warren - Back to the drawing board Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 5:04:31 PM
Ziel pours his heart and soul into his craft, creating a weapon of true power and beauty. He is so moved by his work that he decides that it is his true calling, creating things, rather than employing them. It seems that he will stay behind when the Agents embark again. Hopefully, they will solve the problem soon, so that the things he creates will not also be subject to pilfering.
Pru obtains her scrolls, and reports to Nikolai that the marks are permanent once placed, unless removed by her or another caster with the appropriate magic.
Tinker, Jasper, and Nikolai go about preparing to embark on the following day, following the supply wagons at a careful distance, or at least far enough away that the clanking of Jasper's armor won't give them away.
Upon asking, Qualtmie gives Nikolai a description of the crates that are being loaded up for shipping out. Currently, they are in the warehouse on their wagons, only needing to be hitched to the draft horses the next day.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 6:37:17 PM
OOC. Good luck in the future Antonio. .....
Tinker is ready to help where he is invited, be it setting up the fake box, inventorying the planned shipment, or just in keeping alert.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 6:53:17 PM "How big are these crates? I'm noisy when I move around, like when I am following the caravan. But if I were in a crate that supposedly contained armor, I wouldn't sound any different from that armor. It might also allow me to hear what was going on and determine what was happening if the switch were made." "I am just offering since I am not stealthy like most of you are."
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 11:19:52 PM
"I'm not especially stealthy either," Pru assures Jasper. "And I don't like the idea of you being in a box. What if somebody needs healing?"
"Maybe the stealthy people should follow the caravan," she adds, "and the not-stealthy people should follow the stealthy people. That will put us farther back, and make us less likely to be noticed. What do you think?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 11:38:38 PM
Nikolai sees Jasper's predicament. They had the same problem in the swamp, but then they didn't have to stay so close to their quarry.
"Pru, or anyone else here, don't we have a Silence spell we can use when necessary? If not, I'll go get some scrolls. Meanwhile, instead of making a fake crate, Pru, while using the Hat, can get into the warehouse where the crates are stored and mark those. She can pose as an accountant making one last count of the goods before they go out.
We won't be using horses this time as we will probably be taking to the brush and trees on the side of the road and horses can be too easily seen. Some of us can move just as quick as a wagon anyway. This will be a good test of our stamina, for sure. If it doesn't work, well, we try something different next time."
OOC: If we don't have anyone that can cast Silence, Nikolai will purchase some scrolls of the spell.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Thursday April 23rd, 2015 2:10:27 AM " Aye, I can cast a spell that'll silence me, but it affects the area around me as well. Provided we are far enough away we would be fine. If we are close, then I would leave it to the professionals like Tinker and Michael and yourself." "As fer following the wagons, stamina I have. It's just stealth I lack."
DM Warren - Back to the drawing board Thursday April 23rd, 2015 5:02:35 PM
With marching orders set and no horses to worry about, the Agents seem to have made themselves a workable plan.
Pru gets some papers together and dons Nikolai's hat, ready with a cover story for last minute cargo checks as a cover for marking the crates with her special brand of magic. Or someone else's brand channeled through her, at least. She is almost disappointed when the warehouse is empty and she doesn't need to provide the fake name and persona she had spent so much time crafting. Darn!
The following morning, several workers pile into the warehouse with Qualtmie and hitch up horses to the wagons with the shipment bound for Isumbre. The Agents go about their normal morning business, but keep an eye on the activity, waiting for their opportunity to sneak out to follow them. A bit to their surprise, there has been a last minute change in the escort, and the new Fist that is accompanying the wagons is under the command of none other than their good buddy Sergeant Helmbane. The men are efficient, and it is very soon that the wagons are riding out of the northern gate, heading on their lumbering way.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Thursday April 23rd, 2015 8:37:25 PM
Jasper eyes the roster change with suspicion. He asks the rest of the Agents. " How sure are you that this Helmbane wouldn't be involved in this theft ring? His name has come up before and now, his fist is the escort for another caravan we suspect will be plundered. I won't accuse him but it is starting to look fishy."
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday April 23rd, 2015 9:32:23 PM
Tinker is glad Jasper can't do a quick change into a box. It could take several days and how would he eat or.... No, better this way.
With a quick check to ensure nothing was 'accidentally' lady off the wagons after inventories, Tinker stays with the group to follow
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Thursday April 23rd, 2015 11:28:37 PM
Pru chooses three different kinds of containers to cast her three Arcane Marks on. [OOC for example: a large crate, a small box, and a barrel. Or something like that.]
Then she joins her Fist-mates.
"We're not certain at all," she tells Jasper sadly. "I think we kind if didn't want it to be him. But...this doesn't look good."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Thursday April 23rd, 2015 11:53:11 PM 'Helmbane? ...
Any number of reasons why a Fist is reassigned. Yet it begs for some further investigations. Nikolai waits until the wagons leave the Citadel then catches up with Qualtmie.
"Quartermaster Qualtmie, why the sudden change in escort? Who authorized the change? Who chose Helmbane? Where is the Fist that was to be the escort?"
They don't have much time, but Nikolai figures that any shenanigans won't happen so soon. If they need to, they can travel some at night as well. Either way, Nikolai can't pass up on this information. Whoever made the change could be in on it as well, otherwise, why the change?
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday April 24th, 2015 11:32:09 AM
Tinker suggests to Nikolai and the others that Helmbane may be a fall guy and if this is a robbed caravan, it may be the one who did the reassigning that is behind the thefts.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Friday April 24th, 2015 11:52:19 AM "All possibilities. I am just wondering why his name keeps coming up. If he is being set up he could be looking into the thefts himself and getting close to whomever is doing the stealing. If we have to confront him I think it would be best for him to be taken alive, so that he can be questioned."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Friday April 24th, 2015 2:23:32 PM
Nikolai looks at Tinker and bows his head in sadness.
"We should have checked the contents of the crates before they left. If he is the fall guy and the contents have already been pilfered, how are we to prove him innocent? Pru said there was no one watching the warehouse when she got there. It will be my fault if this investigation fails."
DM Warren - Back to the drawing board Friday April 24th, 2015 5:55:06 PM
Qualtmie looks down at her notes. It looks like the assigned fist had its thumb and one of its other members come down with some sort of malady. Sgt. Helmbane and his fist were unassigned today, so they were the logical choice to take over the escort job. Orders came down from Palance, as they always do.
The Agents let the caravan get a ways down the road before they start following, the stealthy members keeping on eye on the wagons and the noisy ones keeping an eye on them.
anyone stealthily following the wagons make your rolls.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+10=30 ; Friday April 24th, 2015 7:15:40 PM
A suspicious malady just when Helmbane's Fist was available is just another footnote on this whole case. Nikolai has to shrug off the questions he wants to ask the sick Fist, too much time taken to track them down. They have to leave in moments and he returns to his Fist and relates what he found out.
"Ok, let's do this," and leads the way. Knowing the road they took made it easy to catch up, but once that was done, the tough job of keeping concealed began. When they catch up to the wagon train, he tells his Fist, "If we are seen or caught, remember, we are only on an exercise in Stealth and this wagon train was the only one available at the time to test our skills on."
Stealth +10 = 30!
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Saturday April 25th, 2015 7:42:33 AM
Jasper looks at Nikolai as he hoards the responsibility if the mission fails. " Nah sir. If the mission fails we all failed. There's no me in the Fist, just us." When the reasons are revealed about the malady striking the escort fist Jasper's eyes narrow. He opens the dossier again and reads. Then he shakes his head. " You guys go on, keep the caravan in sight. Sick troopers will have gone to the infirmary, and they will know what happened to them. I would bet a weeks pay they came down with filth fever, like the report says some of your fist did when they fought the rats the first time. I'll confirm that and use a...horse, to catch up with you. The horse knows it's home and will go back when released." "With yer permission of course sir." Jasper adds at the end. It is clear his mind is already working out the details of what to say in the infirmary and the dread of riding back on horseback at more than a trot.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+9=13 ; d20+10=14 ; Saturday April 25th, 2015 9:21:12 AM
Tinker nods, "There is no I in..." He frowns and shrugs, "well, if there wasn't that would be a good thing to say. "
The dwarf is a stealthy one and moves out to practice moving unheard and watching unseen.
Perception 13
Stealth 14
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Saturday April 25th, 2015 2:26:22 PM
"Oh!" Pru exclaims. "I forgot. Invisibility. Would anybody on the stealthy team like to be invisible?"
Pru casts Invisibility on whoever requests it. Let me know so I can mark off those spells.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Saturday April 25th, 2015 8:10:33 PM
Tinker figures it may take days of stalking to see something and so declines Prudence's generous offer.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+17=25 ; d20+12=23 ; d20+12=14 ; d20+12=21 ; Sunday April 26th, 2015 1:04:40 AM
ooc: forgive me guys. My mom called and had me travel to Oklahoma on Wednesday, she died in her sleep on Thursday morning. I've been dealing with family, making arrangements and mourning.
Michael request an invisibility spell,
stealth 25 +20 for invis= 45. he also has jasper cast silence on a copper coin that he will carry with him. but unless we have a way of extending the duration of these spells they really won't do us much good, rounds and minutes vs days on the road and all. in any case I case the caravan and look for things a thief would look for.
perception 23 (sorry hit the "roll" button 3 times.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Sunday April 26th, 2015 11:18:12 AM
OOC Shane, I'm sorry to hear that. Take whatever time you need with your family.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Monday April 27th, 2015 10:49:45 AM
OOC: our thoughts go out to you, Shane. Post if you can but we'll understand if we don't hear anything for a little while.
Nikolai would have done what Jasper suggests doing had it not been for him being the leader. "Go then. If there is a mix up and you come across Helmbane, just keep on going as if you are a messenger. Once out of sight, pull off and keep watch for us. In any case, we'll keep an eye on the road to catch you as you pass by."
DM Warren - Back to the drawing board Monday April 27th, 2015 3:57:22 PM
Nikolai proves to be quiet as a rat and has no problems following the caravan, moving from shadow to shadow, some made by something no bigger than a clump of grass.
Michael is quite stealthy as well, but with his shorter legs, it is difficult to keep up.
So, the Agents form sort of a train, with Nikolai keeping his eyes on their quarry, Tinker and Michael following behind, and Pru following at her own pace, not worried about being noticed, as she is too far away to be noticed.
Jasper, however, makes a quick trip to the infirmary to see what might have brought down two hale and hearty recruits at such an important time. They are in no condition to speak, but Jasper's long service makes him welcome in the sick ward, especially if he is willing to help the patients. make a heal check to determine information on their illness.
DM Warren - Back to the drawing board Monday April 27th, 2015 3:58:36 PM
OOC: Sorry to hear that, Shane.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+7=11 ; Monday April 27th, 2015 7:47:26 PM
Heal check 11 Jasper looks over the sick troopers and also asks the healers what could make such healthy troopers so sick. He does what he can to help them and to find out what happened to them to make them ill. Once he has found out what he needs to know and then gets a horse from the stables and rides to catch up with Prudence and the loud part of the group.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+12=25 ; d20+10=19 ; d20+9=29 ; Monday April 27th, 2015 8:41:55 PM
With instruction for those bringing up the rear to watch for Jasper, Nikolai takes the lead (Move 40'). He knows that at first caution is unnecessary but after a few miles and some calculations on wagon speed, he slows down and has everyone move into the brush and stuff along the side of the road. Where there are hills or creeks they risk crossing the road when the other side is easier or simply risking the road when not.
This was a good exercise in their stealth capabilities and their overland tracking as well. Nikolai will write all this down in a small treatise on Stealth Tracking, if it works, and compare it with any other such thing in the Citadel's library.
In this manner they continue their tracking until he notices that Helmbane and the caravan have stopped for the night. A smokeless night for Nikolai's Fist is nothing new and they are well practiced at camping out too. With the Silence and Invisibility spells he asks if Tinker would like to give a try to get close and hear any conversations. Nikolai himself will remain at such a distance to be able to see the camp but not close enough to be heard if he burps or sneezes.
Perception +12 = 25 Stealth + 10 = 19 Survival +9 (find a good spot for the Fist to watch the camp but safe enough to not be overheard to easily) = 29! Yeah!
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday April 27th, 2015 9:32:51 PM
Tinker knows Nikolai is as good as he is for stealth and is faster to boot. So the dwarf gives Michael a look and fades back to be with Prudence. "Can't have anyone alone, right Beanpole?"
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Monday April 27th, 2015 9:45:38 PM
"Well," Pru says, "it's nice to have company. Though I'm sure Jasper will catch up soon."
She sighs. "Maybe someday I'll be able to teleport us all. That will save a lot of walking around."
DM Warren - On the road again Tuesday April 28th, 2015 6:36:58 PM Jasper can't identify the exact sources of the men's distress, but from the symptoms, it doesn't seem to be any disease. In fact, it looks like they just have a bad case of food poisoning.
Once on the road, it doesn't take him too long to catch up to Pru and Tinker. Night falls, and the Agents gather themselves out of sight of the wagons and ruminate about the hardships of long walks and fireless nights.
let me know if Tinker is scouting with Pru's spells and such
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Tuesday April 28th, 2015 7:49:36 PM
Jasper is ashamed of his lack of ability in figuring out what ailment sidelined the troopers. Even with the limited information he was able to gather he feels sure it was planned.He rides to catch up with Prudence and stands ready to follow the Fist tomorrow. If needed he will help stand watch on the nighttime activities of the caravan. He asks if it is prudent for him to pray to Flower for silence, which silences quite a large area, or lesser restoration so that any scout keeping watch during the night can be refreshed in the morning. (showing silence prepared, but I can swap it based on the groups consensus. I personally think we need the restores for whomever is spending the night watching the caravan.)
Notes Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Silence, Silence 0/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 0/6 rebuke death used 0/6 calming touch used
OOC Dang it. I could have used calming touch to remove the sickened condition from those troopers. Thankfully I read it and I CAN use it to remove the fatigued condition, so no discussion needed about spells, I will keep silence prepared. DM, will that allow the touched person to travel afterwards without rest, or will they still need to sleep? Same question for Lesser Restoration.
DM OOC: Yes, removing fatigue negates the need to sleep. It does not allow arcane casters to prepare spells though.
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Tuesday April 28th, 2015 10:05:31 PM
"Well, my Invisibility spell only lasts about 5 minutes," Pru admits. "So it's not really a long-term solution. We should keep it in mind, though, if somebody needs to get closer to the caravan for a bit."
"Just remember that we can't cast spells inside a Silence," Pru reminds Jasper. "Though I may still be able to use my elemental ray."
[OOC to DM: I've had DMs rule both ways on this. Can Pru use a spell-like ability inside a Silence?]
DM OOC: As long as there is no verbal component.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+9=19 ; Tuesday April 28th, 2015 10:09:15 PM
Tinker doesn't ask Prudence for any spells, since he is walking with her and not scouting ahead. He welcomes Jasper back, frowning in thought. "No need to jump to conclusions, but it is looking that way."
Tinker takes the night shift to keep his friends safe.
Perception: 19
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+30=49 ; d20+12=26 ; d20+10=12 ; d20=3 ; Tuesday April 28th, 2015 11:51:59 PM
Nikolai agrees that the ailment suffered by the other Fist members is suspicious but could be explained. Unfortunately time would not allow a more detailed investigation. "We will just have to leave it at that for now," he reluctantly admits.
Nikolai is still curious enough to volunteer getting a close look at the camp. With Invisibility and Silence spells cast on him he moves into a position close enough to be able to overhear any conversation but remain hidden behind a rock or tree when the spells wear off. He will listen in until the camp settles down for the night and then returns to his own camp.
Stealth + 30 (approaching their camp) = 49 Perception +12 (listen in on conversations) = 26 Stealth +10 (leaving) = 12. oops, hopefully he chooses a time when the sentry looks away.
OOC: if it looks like Nikolai is heard when leaving, he will make a howling noise like a wild dog and run full speed (80') away and keep going, in the opposite direction from his own camp. Bluff = 3
OOC: he certainly would not try to leave while Helmbane is on sentry duty, but one of the human Fist members.
DM Warren - On the road again Wednesday April 29th, 2015 5:14:31 PM
Nikolai has no problem remaining unobserved while he approaches the camp. It's a little bit boring waiting until the silence wears off, and he almost jumps out of his hiding spot when the noises suddenly come rushing back. There is little to be heard from the camp, but he can see several forms sleeping on the ground around the embers of a fire. It is too dark to make out exactly who is on watch.
Nikolai stumbles a bit when he leaves, and he lets out the best darn wild dog imitation he can before hunching over and running full tilt from the camp. roll perception for your midnight run.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+9=22 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2015 5:38:06 PM
A wild dog howls in the night while Tinker is on watch. It brings him to full alertness. He doesn't try to stare through the night, but let's his eyes unfocus and he feels the environment around him, alert for something out of place.
Perception 22
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) Wednesday April 29th, 2015 10:15:40 PM
Pru takes a watch if she needs to, and otherwise spends a peaceful night.
In the morning, she casts extended Mage Armor on herself, and on Nikolai if he's in camp. Otherwise, he'll have to make do without it. :)
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+37=46 ; d20+12=18 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2015 10:45:58 PM
ooc: sorry guys, I planned on posting yesterday, but got involved with other things.
If Michael is going to watch the camp, he will have invisability and silence cast upon him. He will find himself a good hide near the camp, but out of sight of the campers so that when the spells wear off he is hidden. he will then watch the camp all night for evidence of pilfering. if the hide seems good, he lets the camp move off of him, rather than risking detection by trying to extract.
stealth d20+17+20 = 46 perception. d20+12=18
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+12=25 ; d20+12=31 ; d20+10=15 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2015 11:09:26 PM
Nikolai has to rely on his elven parentage for navigating through the bushes and brambles and rocks and sticks but does his best.
Low Light Vision, Perception + 12 =25
He stumbles into his own camp stifling a guffaw. It is all he can do to keep from laughing so hard he could wake up Helmbane's camp as well.
Once settled down he works on trying to get some sleep.
Next day the process is the same. Stealthy ones follow close enough to keep an eye out on the caravan, the others bringing up the rear. Nikolai makes sure he leaves obvious tracks for the others to follow.
Perception +12 (keeping an eye on his surrounding while following the caravan) = 31 Stealth +10 = 15
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Thursday April 30th, 2015 9:55:33 AM
Jasper uses his silence spells and generally helps any way he can. He uses calming touch to remove any fatigue that the night watchers might experience. He tries his best to keep the camp neat and as comfortable as he can, since sneaking is pretty much out of his wheelhouse.
Notes Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Silence, Silence 0/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 0/6 rebuke death used 0/6 calming touch used
DM Warren - On the road again d20+8=18 ; Thursday April 30th, 2015 5:40:04 PM
When Nikolai finally returns, Tinker gives him some pointers on his howling before they bed down. In the morning, they catch up with Michael, who has stayed vigilant until the wagons left in the morning.
With a couple of touches filled with Flower power, the all night watcher crew is felling refreshed and ready for another day of stalking. It is easy to follow the trail, as wagons do not make for a sneaky mode of travel. And besides, they have no reason to hide, right? The day passes slowly, and though their bodies don't complain, their minds are soon screaming in boredom for the slowness of their travel.
Night falls, and Nikolai, Tinker, and Michael head back to where Pru and Jasper are following along so they can make camp and wait for the cover of night to resume their spying on the wagon train. Things seem peaceful, despite the lack of a hot meal again.
perception checks for this evening, please
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday April 30th, 2015 5:59:18 PM
Tinker knew it would be a long watch. In three days to get to the destination , the wagons would only have one possible action. Or as one of the training sergeants had told Tinker during a rest when a recruit: "Being in the Fist is long stretches of boredom punctuated by moments of pure terror "
He tries to keep his eyes alert as his hands automatically play with a horseshoe-and-nail puzzle.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+3=13 ; Thursday April 30th, 2015 7:36:55 PM
Jasper stays alert. Having been a miner, he is used to long stretches of boredom and tediousness. When they set up camp he again does his best to make it easily defended and comfortable for the ones doing the night scouts. He will allow Prudence to sleep so that she can regain her spell without mishap and rely on Flowers blessings to keep him refreshed and on watch. Perception 13
Prudence Gundle (Kathy) d20=5 ; Thursday April 30th, 2015 10:29:32 PM
Pru amuses herself by making up stories. She tries her best to stay alert, but she has never been the most watchful member of the Fist.
[Perception 5.]
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+12=15 ; d20+37=40 ; Thursday April 30th, 2015 11:29:30 PM
Michael slips invisibly and silently into a good position to watch the wagon train, He keeps vigil, but finds his attention wandering with the boredom of the night, He resists the urge to fidget and finds a mental groove that keeps him still, but the groove also leads to memories of hearts wrapped in hankerchiefs, and a god that believes in his will and his will alone. It's a waking nightmare, a directed journey through the worst parts of his life, helplessness, persecution, and the rare numbing feeling of true fear. it keeps him still, but the cost is a peek inward, to a life he left behind long ago.
perception 15 stealth 40.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+12=28 ; d20+10=11 ; d20+9=14 ; Friday May 1st, 2015 12:29:54 AM
Spells in effect: Mage Armor
The thrill of their successful tailing of the caravan is enough to stave off boredom from taking over Nikolai even though it is not a real challenge. For one thing, his Fist is learning to work together and that was exciting too.
Perception +12 = 28 Stealth + 10 = 11 Survival +9 (find a good spot for the Fist to watch the camp but safe enough to not be overheard to easily) = 14
The terrain was harder to work with this time and finding as good a spot to camp as he did the night before proved much more difficult. But the Fist manages to make do despite the challenges.
DM Warren - On the road again map Friday May 1st, 2015 3:33:25 PM
Perhaps it is a lack of wariness after a long boring day, a sub-optimal camping location, a poorly acted dog's howl, or a combination, but it seems that the Agents are not the only ones sneaking about this night.
Nikolai barely has time to shout a warning before their assailants are upon them. Nikolai has a surprise round action. Map in header.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday May 1st, 2015 4:58:07 PM
OOC: DM! I dont' have permissions to view the map in the header.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Friday May 1st, 2015 9:49:09 PM
I have no access either.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Saturday May 2nd, 2015 6:58:01 AM
I am denied permission as well.
DM Warren - On the road again map Saturday May 2nd, 2015 4:58:15 PM
sorry all, everyone should have access now.
Prudence Gundle [AC 14; HP 48/48] (Kathy) Saturday May 2nd, 2015 6:05:41 PM
I'm going to assume they attacked after the Mage Armor wore off.
And I'm going to assume that, since Pru doesn't get to act in the surprise round, all I'm doing right now is updating my header. :)
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Saturday May 2nd, 2015 7:36:11 PM
As Prudence, Tinker is surprised, and can only understand they are under attack before the enemy is upon them!
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Saturday May 2nd, 2015 9:55:33 PM
What Nikolai things to be some nocturnal rats turns out to be something other and Nikolai perceives the attack just in time to issue a warning, "Rats wielding swords! Danger, danger! Red Alert, Red Alert! To arms! The Attack of the Wererats!"
Seeing Pru in direct line with oncoming wererats, he moves to put himself in front of her, drawing his silvered kama as he moves.
OOC: I'm assuming the boulders provide enough cover, so I placed Nikolai one square north of the boulder. If the boulder is not big enough to provide cover for Pru, he should be directly between her and the wererat.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+3=6 ; Saturday May 2nd, 2015 11:02:46 PM
Jasper too stands there slack-jawed. He tries to see if they have any ranged weapons or if they are just wielding swords. Mostly he just stands there slack-jawed though. Perception 6
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+12=23 ; d20+11=20 ; d6=4 ; Sunday May 3rd, 2015 1:01:26 AM
ooc: I'm a bit confused, My understanding was that during the night Nikolai and I watched the caravan while the rest of the crew staged at a cold camp. I am going to assume that this encounter occurs shortly after we get back to camp.
perception: 23
Never one to wait around Michael quickly surveys the approaching creatures, he then move to a position where he can take the closest ones under enfilade, Jaspers armor should allow him to delay the other 2 till they can take care of the closest. He sends a silver staff sling stone at the closest. (if I have enough actions left, if not I do it next round. but I'll post the to hit rolls on this post.) to hit ac 20 sling stone 4 -1 = 3
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Sunday May 3rd, 2015 7:22:30 PM
OOC: I wasn't sure how far to post, so I just included setting up camp and observing Helmbane's camp, not Nikolai's return to his own camp, but I'm OK with whatever timeline DM perceived it to be.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Monday May 4th, 2015 1:42:10 AM
Me too..just thought I may have missed something is all..
DM Warren - On the road again map d20+4=11 ; d20+6=17 ; d20-1=9 ; 2d6+2=8 ; d20+5=22 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+5=17 ; d8=3 ; d6=2 ; Monday May 4th, 2015 5:42:47 PM ooc: this is the next day before you had a chance to go spy on the wagons, since I assumed that like the previous night, you waited for nightfall to cover your approach. If you didn't, then I'm fine making it after you came back tired from a full night of watching =)
Nikolai quickly puts himself in front of Pru, and he is just as inviting of a target. Why attack the one wearing armor, right? The first ratman misses, but provides enough of a distraction for his companion to strike him from behind. 8 damage
Jasper spots the other two holding crossbows, just in time for them to each send a quarrel his way. One bounces off his armor, making him jump, but the other finds a chink into which to slip. 5 damage
Everyone else finally recovers from their surprise, and the fight is on.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+8=27 ; d6+2=3 ; Monday May 4th, 2015 8:41:31 PM
Tinker takes a step towards the rock at his back, and getting in line with one rat and its sword. His dwarven urgrosh whips out and about, the silvered spear point jabbing at the rat's gut.
"Back off vermin!", he growls dangerously.
Attack 27, Damage 3 with a Silvered Weapon
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 30/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+7=23 ; d6+3=5 ; Monday May 4th, 2015 8:43:27 PM
OOC: i like DM timeline better. :)
Spells that may be in effect by end the Fist's Turn: Mage Armor w/ AC 20/20/17
Nikolai feels the sharp stab from behind when the ratman flanks him. Seeing Tinker protecting Pru from the other side of he rock, he takes a step to his right to stand between Pru and the other ratman. As he does so he slashes at the ratman now in front of him.
Prudence Gundle [AC 14; HP 48/48] (Kathy) Monday May 4th, 2015 9:31:29 PM
Pru scrambles to her feet and casts Mage Armor on Nikolai. She cast a regular Mage Armor, not the Extended version, becasue surely this fight won't last five hours. :)
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 46/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+6=17 ; d10+7=15 ; Monday May 4th, 2015 11:16:34 PM
Jasper rushes the crossbowmen. As he move he reaches back and draws his axe, the new silver one. He give a terrific shout as he swings it for the ratman's head. Power attacking, draw a weapon with a move, normal move to my new position. Hits AC 19 for 15 damage, silver.
OOC After looking at the map again I think I need to charge to make it there, adding 2 to my to hit. I will have a 2 worse AC for this round. 22/9, yeah, 9/21
DM Warren - On the road again map d20+4=7 ; d20-1=9 ; d20+6=24 ; d20+1=11 ; 2d6+2=9 ; d20+4=7 ; d20-1=2 ; d8=6 ; d20+14=23 ; d10+5=11 ; Tuesday May 5th, 2015 4:57:19 PM
The Agents retaliate with a flurry of attacks, Their preparations serve them well, and there is a slight smell of burning in the air as various silver implements cut into the rats.
The rats are well coordinated, too, going after the most vulnerable targets once they've identified themselves. Rats 1 and 2 step around to flank Prudence after she casts her spell. 1 hit for 9 damage
Rats 3 and 4 are intimidated after Jasper's blow, but hold their ground. And the reason why is evident. R3 cannot get through Jasper's armor, and R4 steps back to quaff a potion. But a yell cuts through the sounds of battle as an armored figure plows into Jasper from behind. 11 dmg
R1: 6 dmg R2: 4 dmg R3: 0 R4: 8 dmg
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 20 HP 35/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Tuesday May 5th, 2015 5:41:45 PM " Sergeant Helmbane I presume? In the name of the Mailed Fist and by Flower's loving hand I offer you this one chance to surrender. If you refuse I will cut you down like the traitor you appear to be. What say you?" Since the armored figure is dwarven, Jasper assumes this is Sergeant Helmbane. Jasper steps back toward the group (using the diagonal I should draw no AoOs) and better armors himself through his faith in Flower. Cast Shield of Faith after moving.
OOC DM Warren, after seeing Nikolai's damage post above I realize I did not take the -1 damage for a silver weapon, please remove 1 damage from the ratling I hit. Thanks Jon 8). AC is correct in the header now. Have I got my 2nd level spells or do I have them expended for the boys to go watch the camp? I really need someone to firmly decide what time this fight happens. I am assuming I don't have them in this post. Let me know.
Notes Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Silence, Silence 0/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 0/6 rebuke death used 2/6 calming touch used
DM OOC: This is before you would have buffed for scouting, so your silences would not be used.
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+10=19 ; d6+2=5 ; 2d6=9 ; Tuesday May 5th, 2015 7:04:05 PM
Tinker slides about, accepting the possibility of getting flanked in turn to catch the rat-man in a pincer between Prudence and himself.
He grimly smiles at the slightly burning smell, hoping to kill the evil thing with a quick stab.
Jasper calling out causes Timker's head to whip about. "helmsbane? No!"
...........
Attack : flank; rat loses dex bonus. AC 19. Dam 5 +9 sneak attack
Prudence Gundle [AC 14; HP 48/48] (Kathy) d20+5=7 ; Tuesday May 5th, 2015 7:07:53 PM
Pru steps out of flank [5-foot step], and sends an Elemental Ray at one of the were-rats. She rushes the shot, though, and it goes wide.
Hope Sinclair Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 d20+5=8 ; d20+8=18 ; d8+9=10 ; Tuesday May 5th, 2015 7:44:19 PM
From the south approaches a human female that moves with both grace and purpose. She is lightly armored and has a sturdy looking bow in one hand. A menacing looking black wolf is running stride for stride with the human.
Upon closer inspection she has a Mailed Fist emblem embroidered on the left best of her cloak.
She yells to her wolf companion, "Take'em down boy!" The wolf obeys, by charging toward Ratman #1 and attempting to engage, rather ineffectively.
The woman then fires a silver arrow at Ratman #3.
She calls out to whoever will listen, "I am with the Fist!"
----------------
Attack Rat#3: 18 Damage: 10
Bane (Wolf) Trip CMB: 10 (forgot charge)
OOC: I am glad to be here. Realized I don't have my animal companion CS viewable... working on that now.
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 20 HP 35/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Tuesday May 5th, 2015 8:11:56 PM
More than a day out and on a secret mission Jasper wonders at the newcomer. He shoots a quick questioning glance at Nikolai. " We have backup boss?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 30/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+4=8 ; d20+4=5 ; Tuesday May 5th, 2015 10:51:32 PM
OOC: Jasper, DM said the timeline was after we set up camp but before we went to spy on Helmbane's caravan, so you should have your spells.
Spells in effect; Mage Armor
IC: "Gargul must not want to see us so soon again!" replies Nikolai but his confidence just took a blow when Hembane jumped in and attacked Jasper. Things like that, though, have to be thought out and distilled later. First order of business is always to take care of business at hand first, and that was to eliminate the wererats and try to neutralized Helmbane, if possible.
Nikolai tries to keep Ratman 2 too busy to target Pru again. Flurry of Blows: Att1 +4 = 8 Att2 +4 = 5
Maybe Helmbane's appearance jostled Nikolai more than he thought it would.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+11=26 ; d4=4 ; 3d6=9 ; Tuesday May 5th, 2015 11:50:48 PM
ooc: Sorry guys, I was dealing with my daughters myoclonic seizures yesterday during the time I usually post, or more specifcally the after effects of only having 2 hours sleep in the last 24.
Michael spots the other dwarf enter the scene, and adds him to his calculations, his main concern is to whittle the rats down a bit so he charges rat 1 to pin him against Pru, he slides his slivered Rapier into the unarmored area of the rats armpit, He feels the slightly duller edge of the silver as it's friction makes the thrust a wee bit short, but the aim was good and he feels the spongy resistance of a lung hit as he pulls the rapier out,
To hit ac 26 damage d4=4-1 3 backstab 3d6 =9 for 12 points total. plus 3 points bleed damage per round starting with the rats round.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Tuesday May 5th, 2015 11:59:27 PM
sorry forgot to take off the cats grace potion from my char sheet. to hit ac should be 24 not 26.
Prudence Gundle [AC 14; HP 39/48] (Kathy) Wednesday May 6th, 2015 10:29:21 AM
[Whoops! Updating header.]
DM Warren - On the road again map d20+5=25 ; d20+5=18 ; d8+1=4 ; d20+4=21 ; d20-1=4 ; d6+2=3 ; d20+4=15 ; d20-1=8 ; d20+6=25 ; d20+14=33 ; d10+5=10 ; Wednesday May 6th, 2015 4:33:51 PM
Jasper issues an ultimatum to the armored dwarf and his verminous companions. They answer with bolts and steel. With some luck, the bolt from R4 finds its way into Jasper 4 dmg, crit not confirmed.
R2 moves into a flanking position, but concentrates his blows on Nikolai. 3 dmg Nikolai is keeping the rat busy, but events are moving quickly and keeping him from lining up his strikes. Helmbane? A mysterious archer? Looking at her, she reminds him of Constance of all people, the way she moves, how she fires a bow. And, she's shooting the right people.
Tinker and Michael manage to take out R1, just before his friends charges up behind. R3 manages to evade the wolf snapping at his heels but cannot find purchase with his blade.
The dwarf ignores Jaspers words and focuses on putting his axe in him instead. 10 dmg
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+10=28 ; d6+3=6 ; Wednesday May 6th, 2015 4:48:44 PM
Timker's rat drops, the other two nearby rats are engaged with Nikolai and the mysterious stranger. She is shooting at the right people but Tinker warns her about the foes. "We are Fist, you are Fist, but they are wearing Fist badges too! Your help is timely and if you help take the rats, I can help take the traitor."
With those dire words, Tinker whips his urgrosh up and charges Helmsbane!
"You trained us, lived with us, led us. But you lead these rats and attack us? You are no battle mate. Live for the Fist! Die for the Fist!"
Tinker strikes with his silvered spear point, wondering if the burning smell will come from Sergeant Helmsbane...
Charge +2 attack, -2 AC Move to beside Jasper and in front of Helmsbane Attack 28 Damage with spear (silvered weapon) 6
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 20 HP 21/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+8=19 ; d10+6=7 ; Wednesday May 6th, 2015 7:12:40 PM This is starting to become serious. Thinks Jasper, when Tinker sends a message to Helmbane with the tip of his weapon, the silver tip. Jasper takes advantage of the distraction to turn and smash the ratling between himself and Nikolai. Hopefully this will allow Nikolai to finish the rat and allow Jasper a chance to heal himself and keep the rest of them standing. Power attacking, Flanking Attack hits AC 19 for 7 damage(silver)
Notes Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Silence, Silence 0/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 0/6 rebuke death used 2/6 calming touch used
OOC Awesome, thanks for the time update, I wasn't sure what time we were doing this before, now I know.
Hope SinclairDrake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 d20+8=26 ; d10+9=11 ; d20+3=5 ; Wednesday May 6th, 2015 7:19:02 PM
The new combatant is understandably confused by the Dwarf's comments, but knows now is not the time to argue.
She moves with a fluid, cat like grace about 15ft to the north. Turning abruptly, she fires a silver arrow at the rat that is directly to the east of her, which easily finds its mark.
"Get that one Drake" the archer calls to her wolf companion.
Drakes attempts to comply but seems to be doing a better job of harassing that tripping.
Prudence Gundle [AC 14; HP 39/48] (Kathy) d20+5=16 ; d6+2=4 ; Wednesday May 6th, 2015 10:31:34 PM
Pru moves and fires another Elemental Ray, this time targeting Rat #3. It is a much better shot.
[Hit Touch AC 16 for 4 damage. Pru has the Precise Shot feat.]
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 30/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+6=20 ; d20+6=23 ; d6+2=6 ; d6+2=8 ; Wednesday May 6th, 2015 10:41:11 PM
OOC: hope your daughter is better. :}
Spells in effect: Mage Armor
Nikolai figures that this new Mailed Fist member was on return to the Citadel from some messenger errand. Her stealth and expertise with a bow, plus her canine friend would explain the solitary trip and not with a unit.
"The ratmen are certainly the enemy and will kill you sure as day!" he yells over his shoulder at her. "But yonder hefty dwarf we want to bring in alive, or as much alive as possible!" he exclaims as he takes two more swipes at Ratman 2 while it is still flanked.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+9=10 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+9=12 ; d4=2 ; 3d6=10 ; Wednesday May 6th, 2015 11:11:47 PM
As the rat man collapses Michael hears/ feels another one come up behind him, (since it had to close to within 5ft of me I get an AoO don't I? as well as my normal attack?) He thrusts he rapier at the creature, but misses. it does give him enough time to orient to face the creature though. he feints at the creature trying to put it off its game. but it warily dodges his attempt and the silver point finds nothing of value.
AoO to hit AC10 feint 15 to hit ac 12. if I hit 2 -1 = 1 point damge. 3d6 backstab 10 +3 bleed/round.
DM OOC: you only get an AoO if it moves through a threatened square
DM Warren - On the road again map d20+10=24 ; d20+10=18 ; d10+9=12 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+3=6 ; d20+4=11 ; Thursday May 7th, 2015 5:56:39 PM
Another rat falls to Nikolai's blows, and the others are starting to look worse for wear. The dwarf is still full of fight though, and proves it with a mighty blow that slashes past Tinker, but fails to get through Jasper's defenses. cleave hits Tinker for 12, misses Jasper
R4 tries to go to to his commander's aid, but has to contend with wolf jaws first Drake gets an AoO
R3 is still involved with Michael and would prefer not to turn his back on him. miss
Hope SinclairDrake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 d20+3=20 ; d6+1=2 ; d20+5=23 ; d6+1=3 ; d20+6=14 ; d20+6=20 ; d8+9=10 ; d8+9=14 ; Thursday May 7th, 2015 6:22:27 PM
Drake gets a teeth on the Ratman, but does little in the way of damage as the Rat moves past him. Like any good wolf, Drake follows and takes another bite out of the creatures.
Hope decides to try and hit more targets with less accuracy. She will fires twice at which ever enemy combatants are still standing.
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 20 HP 21/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+6=9 ; d10+6=11 ; Thursday May 7th, 2015 7:16:47 PM
Jasper circles the enemy dwarf and swings hard, trying to distract him and let Tinker get around him and drive that spear point home. He fails to connect, but hopefully sets Tinker up for success. Power attack Attack hits AC 9 damage 11 if I should somehow hit
Notes Spells in effect Shield of Faith 3/30 rounds elapsed Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Silence, Silence 0/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 0/6 rebuke death used 2/6 calming touch used
AC 20 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 30/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+10=15 ; d20+10=26 ; d8+3=10 ; 2d6=6 ; Thursday May 7th, 2015 9:38:30 PM
Tinker understands what Jasper is doing and slides around Helmsbane himself, getting in a flanking position. There was no burning of the dwarf, so Tinker figures Helmsbane isn't a lycanthrope. He switches up for his axe blade side of the urgrosh and slashes down!
It nearly misses, but with a heroic effort, Tinker tries again, connecting solidly.
AC 15 Hero Point AC 26 Damage 10+6 sneak attack= 16 damage!
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 27/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+7=24 ; Thursday May 7th, 2015 9:58:55 PM
Spells in effect: Mage armor
Now free of his foe, he retrieves his Tanglefoot bag (Move) and tosses it at Helmsbane.
Precise shot/ Point Blank shot: Tanglefoot bag Range Touch +7 = 24 -2 (range) = 22
DC15 Ref or become glued to the spot, Save = move 1/2 speed, -2 to Attack, -4 to Dex.
Prudence Gundle [AC 14; HP 39/48] (Kathy) d20+5=22 ; d6+2=6 ; Thursday May 7th, 2015 10:48:44 PM
Pru fires another Elemental Ray at Rat #3, and singes off some more fur.
[Hit Touch AC 22 for 6 damage.]
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+9=28 ; d4=2 ; Thursday May 7th, 2015 11:49:26 PM
it's much more difficult to hit a creature that is actively dodging and trying to do shove a sword through your gut. This bit of wisdom from his drill instructor passes though is mind as the he narrowly sidesteps the sword aimed for his gut. The rat man overstepped himself though and Michael is able to touch him with the silver blade.
to hit AC 28 damage 2-1 = 1
DM Warren - On the road again map d20+4=21 ; d20+8=24 ; d20+3=16 ; d10+9=18 ; Friday May 8th, 2015 9:46:05 PM
Some well placed rays and arrows take down the last two rats, leaving only an angry, gluey dwarf with which to contend. reflex 21 He still has no problem hitting Tinker, though the glue does slow down his followup enough that Tinker can dodge it. 18 damage
With his ability to flee taken away, it seems like this dwarf is in it to the end.
R1: down R2: dying (7) R3: down R4: dying (-5) Dwarf: 22 dmg
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 20 HP 21/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Friday May 8th, 2015 10:19:17 PM "Orders sir?" Jasper prepares to back away if Nikolai calls for it. With the dwarf slowed they should be able to easily run him down if needed.
Hope SinclairDrake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 d20+6=10 ; d20+6=9 ; Saturday May 9th, 2015 6:26:21 AM
The archer calls for her wolf to heel. She readies to fire should the group decide to not take the dwarf alive.
Ready action: Miss!
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Saturday May 9th, 2015 5:17:41 PM
With the last rats down and the dwarf somewhat in hand. Michael sets to stabilizing the ones he can. Getting info is their primary concern and these rats know something and can colaborate stories during interrogation.
Ooc: cant access char sheet from phone, so im going to post the rolls when i get to the house.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 27/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+8=17 ; Saturday May 9th, 2015 9:49:37 PM
Spells in effect: mage armor
Noticing that Helmbane is NOT a wererat from Tinker's weapon choice, Nikolai switches his attack mode to his unarmed attacks. Swiftly moving in, he attempts to knock Helmbane out of commission.
AC 26 Touch 13 FF 25 CMD 20 HP 21/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+8=23 ; d10+6=11 ; Saturday May 9th, 2015 11:30:47 PM
Jasper follows his commander's unspoken order and keeps swinging. Hit AC 23 for 11 damage
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+3=11 ; d20+3=18 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+3=16 ; d20+13=20 ; d20+13=24 ; d20+13=27 ; d20+13=17 ; Sunday May 10th, 2015 12:16:29 AM
trying to stabilize 4 rats, tirage, start with rat 2 then 4 then 3 then 1. using heal skill. heal 11 heal 18 heal 7 heal 16
I then bind any rats that I stabilize. can't have them running off (don't know what skills to check to do this by I'll assume its escape artists. using escape artist skill. tie up. 20 tie up 24 tie up 27 tie up 17.
I figure doing this will keep me occupied for the rest of the combat. but I keep an eye on the remainder of combat, if it looks like things are going to get out of hand, I will stop with the rat reclamation project and step in to help.
Prudence Gundle [AC 14; HP 39/48] (Kathy) d20+8=12 ; Sunday May 10th, 2015 1:22:01 PM
Pru moves toward Sergeant Helmbane. She extends her hands in a spellcasting stance, looking miserable.
"Sergeant Helmbane," she says, "please don't make us do this. Surrender, and we'll figure something out. We'll work it out, I promise. Just--stop fighting. Please?"
[Diplomacy 12. Crud.]
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 27/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d6+3=4 ; Sunday May 10th, 2015 11:28:52 PM
OOC: it occurred t me that with his diminished Dex, 17 might hit, so:
Non-lethal dmg = 4 Stunning Fist: Fort DC15 or stunned for 1 round.
AC 20+6 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 12/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday May 11th, 2015 9:16:52 AM
Tinker is wounded badly, he knows from training how hard Helmsbane can hit and this time he is using edged steel! But the odds are against the renegade now, and Tinker knows that all he has to do is keep Helmsbane in play.
So his urgrosh begins to weave, enticingly opening and closing, making it much more difficult to hit the young dwarf. "Lay down! Take back your duty for the Fist, your honor as a dwarf!" Tinker isn't persuasive himself, but he hopes to break through and appeal to the Helmsbane that once was.
Total Defense. +6 AC
DM Warren - On the road again map Monday May 11th, 2015 5:35:11 PM
It takes a few rounds, but Michael manages to stabilize and bind one of the ratmen.
The dwarf looks around at his fallen troops and knows he's outclassed, or at least outnumbered. He drops his axe and raises his hands, lifting off his helm at the same time. The suspicions of the Agents were correct - the dwarf is indeed Sargeant Helmbane. He looks none too pleased to have been taken down by his subordinates.
Well I suppose you've found me out. There is no honor in the Fist - we sell ourselves to the highest bidder, like any good merchant does with his wares. The only thing we're good at is taking money from those weaker than ourselves. I was just better than most at it. Only question now is what will you do with men and my men? Or what's left of them, at least.
AC 20+6 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 12/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday May 11th, 2015 6:04:15 PM
Tinker sheathes his own weapon, knowing his battle-mates will cover him while he gets out the manacles he keeps and lock them on to Helmsbane's wrists behind the dwarf's back.
The younger dwarf keeps quiet for a moment: Helmsbane's words have much truth in it. Really, that was why Tinker said 'Duty to the Fist' and 'Honor as a Dwarf'. While he himself had honor, he wasn't certain the Mailed Fist had much. Still...
"And how much honor is there in turning on those who are your companions?", Tinker asks heavily, a ringing indictment from Tinker who is loyal to a friend even against great evidence. He glances at Nikolai before continuing. "You are surely not the leader for the were-rats, they must have a nest or leader? If you hold fast to your oath to the Fist and tell us who is really in charge, I will be a character witness on your behalf at your trial in the Citadel."
...........
Manacles Break DC 26 Escape Artist DC 30
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d4=2 ; d6=5 ; d6=6 ; d6=3 ; d6=6 ; d8=6 ; d8=1 ; d8=2 ; d8=2 ; Monday May 11th, 2015 7:29:35 PM
Jasper looks down at the one wererat that Michael has been able to stabilize. "You want this one up and moving sir? I can heal him up enough that he can move under his own power, not sure I want him awake though. Can they shift out of their bonds?" If Nikolai says yes he will use Rebuke Death on the stable ratman healing 3 damage. Once all of the prisoners are secured he will pull the wounded of the group aside and channel energy to heal them. He then uses his spells to heal himself and Tinker since they are more injured. Jasper heals any wounded party members for 20 points of damage. Tinker heal an additional 9 points Jasper heals an additional 10 points Once the healing is done he prepares to head back to the Citadel escorting their prisoners there.
Notes Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Silence, Silence 2/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 2/6 rebuke death used 2/6 calming touch used
Hope SinclairDrake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 Monday May 11th, 2015 9:17:47 PM
Hope is slightly overwhelmed with the fluid efficiency in which the group goes about there tasks. She decides she should probably put her bow until she proves she is not a threat.
"Hope Sinclair reporting to Thumb Nikolai for assignment."
She holds an envelope with a Mailed Fist seal out to whoever will take it
JonathanT - fixed brackets.
Prudence Gundle [AC 14; HP 39/48] (Kathy) Monday May 11th, 2015 10:13:28 PM
Since the others are kind of busy, Pru reaches forward to take the envelope from Hope.
"It's nice to meet you, Hope," she says. "I'm Prudence Gundle, and this is Jasper Steelfist, and Michael Wittman, and Daemar Torvalsson, called Tinker. And this is Nikolai Komonov, our Thumb."
Pru does not open the envelope; she only holds onto it until Nikolai has a free moment to deal with it.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Monday May 11th, 2015 11:10:53 PM
Michael wipes his forearm across his brow, careful to keep his bloodstained hands away from his mouth and eyes. We are what? two days from the citadel? If I were the wererats I'd have a staging area nearby, and I'd prolly leave a watch to report back in case something went wrong. Which means we are going to be getting some company just as soon as the watchmen can report back that the mission has been compromised. We Prolly need to high tail it back to the citadel post haste, We at least need to get these prisoners back. Or get a message back so a relief column can be sent out to retrieve us. This also means, if they do get word back, that the nest of rats will have bugged out, which will make these prisoners info invalid.
He takes the envelope from new fist mate and brings it over to Nikolai.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 27/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+7=16 ; Monday May 11th, 2015 11:31:12 PM
OOC: Technically, without a Heal check, we have no way to know if any foe is -1 or -10 hp, only unconscious and bleeding.
Spells in effect: mage armor
Stunning Fist: 3/4
Nikolai is relieved that Sgt. Helmbane didn't fight to the death. On the other hand, what will the Mailed Fist court martial do?
Tinker takes out his manacles and Nikolai makes sure Helmbane complies to their proper usage.
"Sgt. Helmbane, you are wrong! There is Honor in the Fist. There is Honor in doing business with Honesty and Integrity, performing out duties as promised. We don't force our services nor do we exact protection money. Nor do we hire out to those that would use our services for evil intents!" Nikolai blurts out, remembering his father's, alas, his whole family's history of dedication to the Fist and its noble ideals.
"To many blows to that hard head of yours have addled your brain. But even if you lost sight of the Fist's purpose, the why didn't you just quit? Why choose to embezzle and steal from the Fist? Was this your idea or are you just a patsy? Oh never mind, Captain Constance will get your full story."
He tells Tinker to make sure the manacles are very secure then turns his attention to Michael and the others, "Good job in trying to save whom you could. I'll look at these others too. However as long as they are alive and stable, we should do no more. We don't know enough about wererats to risk them getting active again."
He turns to a wererat that Michael has not seen yet but overhears the newcomer's introduction. Glad that Pru is taking command of those formalities, he looks the wererat over:
Heal Check +7 = 16
"Miss Sinclair, welcome to our Fist. I'm Nikolai, honorary Thumb. I'm sorry we've met in such circumstances but I'm awfully glad you found us when you did," Nikolai tries to smile. "We really aren't usually this rough of a bunch," he grins broadly this time.
Receiving Hope's papers, he opens them. "Good work Fist. We really stuck together. Good teamwork. They got the jump on us but we kept our heads and formed up real well. The Captain will want a full report so start thinking on it." He figures this might take their minds off the fact that their own sergeant seems to be deeply embroiled in the thefts.
He then reads the official assignment papers Hope brought.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 27/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Monday May 11th, 2015 11:41:28 PM "Settle down Michael. We'll be all right." He lowers his voice so only the Fist can hear, "Once we get everyone here taken care of and whatever prisoners are still alive tied up real nice, we will need to visit the caravan. The drivers may be completely innocent. If that turns out to be so, we'll need them to take a different route, postpone the inevitable news that ratmen's plans have hit a hitch. If the wagons go back, their contact there will pass the word on.
On that note, we'll need to get into the Citadel with the prisoners unnoticed. I suggest we find an empty house in town somewhere and using the hat enter the Citadel in disguise, finding the Captain and getting her to send an interrogation crew to the house. It is a rather unusual tactic but secrecy is paramount."
DM Warren - On the road again map Tuesday May 12th, 2015 4:51:31 PM Michael and Tinker make sure everyone's bonds are extra tight, Jasper gets the group healed up, and Pru and Nikolai get Hope sorted out at introduced to the group. Her papers are an assignment from Constance herself - she oversaw much of Hope's training, and with their recent losses in members, decided that Hope would be a good addition to the crew. It seems she was right, as Hope fit right into their battle formation.
Nikolai confirms that the last ratman is stable, though still unconscious.
Sergeant Helmbane doesn't seem remorseful at all. Turning on my companions? It seems I was true to them until the end. He indicates what remains of his Fist, who are slowly shifting back to their human forms in the moonlight. And why quit? My Fist and I still had to eat. And drink. And all sorts of things we had become accustomed to. I had to find some way to make ends meet after you busted up my gambling services.
You'll never find the Rat Chief. Heck, his own boys can't even find him when he doesn't want to be found. This was our last haul. When the caravan doesn't show, he and his boys will bug out so fast and so far that you'll never find them.
AC 20+6 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 12/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+10=15 ; Tuesday May 12th, 2015 7:13:33 PM
Tinker frowns, Helmsbane is hardly being sorry. While Tinker admires his loyalty it seems that that loyalty is a little shortsighted. There is more to doing the right thing than taking care of the immediate people within hands reach! The thought bothers Tinker for some reason, but he shrugs it off. There are other things he needs to do.
He nods, the convoy needs coverage. And there is a cache around here somewhere that may be recovered even if they can't get the Leader. "Looks like we recover the convoy, check for trails to a cache, and then head back to the Citadel?" O Tinker sets himself up as one of the prisoner guards, checking bonds in a random pattern every few minutes to make sure there are no escape attempts.
Perception 15
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+7=16 ; Tuesday May 12th, 2015 7:55:58 PM
At Helmbane's defensive words justifying his acions, Jasper attempts to remind him what Tinker actually asked him. It is clear he is thinking not only of his own boy when he speaks, but also of these fresh young soldiers he finds himdelf serving with. " Yer missin' the point, BOY. Yer goin' to the block fer this. The lad here, generous beyond reason, is willin' to put his good name on the line to vouch fer yer lyin', stealin' carcass and maybe save yer life. His question wasn't what the rat would do. Any idiot, not just you, can figure out that he will disappear. With his thieves exposed again, any savvy businessman would be smart enough to cut his losses and run, abandoning his operation and doing business again somewhere else." " What Tinker asked is, if you value yer life and yer honor, enough to help the Fist make sure he won't bother it again. Ye see, we actually are patriots to the Fist and to our brother's in arms in the Fist. Yer stealin' has left other soldiers under supplied and behind the eight ball out in the field. You've put their lives at risk to line your own pockets because you were too lazy for honest work. These kids, Flower save them, respected you because you taught them how a mercenary company works. Today you delivered your last lesson to them in the form of how it does NOT work. You don't deserve to wear that uniform. You are a disgrace to this unit and to dwarves in general." Jasper's voice had started out in a growl. When he ends he is standing directly in front of Helmbane and shouting at the top of his lungs. He had sheathed his axe while he called on Flower's holy power to heal you. Now his hand dips to his belt and comes up with a star knife. Three quick slashes are all he needs to rip from cuff to shoulder both of Helmbane's sleeves and a cut right down the back of the uniform coat. He grabs the fabric and tears it from Helmbane's back, leaving only his undergarments on his torso. He never draws a drop of blood in the process. Rage and protective anger war across his face for a moment as he stands there, balled uniform in one hand and star knife in the other. Protective anger finally wins and he backs away from the traitor to go to and tend the wounded wererat. Heal 16 Once he rises from the task, he points to the other wererats. "We need to strip the uniforms from them and should bury them. They were brother's in arms once. That they followed this leader means they are now dead. It pains me that they could have been you guys. Bless Flower you had more sense and decency. The wagon probably has shovels on it for getting out of tight places and such. If not I have my own." Jasper will strip the uniforms from the three fallen wererats and then proceeds to start digging graves for them. Once he has finished he will say a prayer for their souls and bury them, unless he is stopped.
Hope SinclairDrake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 d20+9=19 ; Tuesday May 12th, 2015 10:03:55 PM
While the rests go about their various tasks, Hope decides to keep an eye out for further damage, unless told to do otherwise. When things aren't so tense, she will take the time to introduce herself and Drake in more detail and explain her strengths and weaknesses. Now doesn't seem like the best time for that.
Perception: 19
Prudence Gundle [AC 14; HP 39/48] (Kathy) Tuesday May 12th, 2015 10:14:32 PM
Pru wants to cry. She has learned how to stop herself, but it's a near thing. She swallows hard.
"We'll bury the dead," she says softly, "and take the prisoners back to the Citadel. It's all we can do for now."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Tuesday May 12th, 2015 11:12:12 PM
Seeing the stalwart Dwarf pray for the souls of the departed rat men strikes a chord with Michael. He drops to his knees and adds his prayers to the departed. Maybe the one he saved can be healed of his affliction, then perhaps this was not all in vain.
after he is done he helps to make preparations to leave.
You know, if we put that wizard mark on something in the wagon, if the rats steal it would it enable us to track them?
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 27/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+10=25 ; Wednesday May 13th, 2015 12:01:22 AM "You mean companions in crime, that is. Hardly what the Mailed Fist intended to mean by the oath. You sought wealth by any means but honestly, it would seem. But why side up with some elusive boss? Someone who has no regard to others, who'll use them up and toss them out on a whim, like he's doing to you? Poor choice of friends, I'd say." With that Nikolai has finished with speaking to Helmbane.
"I'd like to stay and help bury the dead, but I need to check on the wagons. The teamsters may be innocent or maybe not. Either way, we'll want the wagons to transport this sorry lot back home. Jasper, Pru, Hope, stay here. William, Tinker and I will take a look at their camp and see if anyone has hung around. I'd take you, Jasper, but we need to sneak up on the camp. We'll be back soon."
Nikolai takes Tinker and goes to spy out the wagon camp. If nothing is there they return. They'll need daylight to look for tracks. If the wagons are there but no teamsters, they'll bring at least two wagons back. Of the teamsters are there, Tinker and Nikolai will awaken them and have them bring all the wagons back to their camp. If they put up a fight, We use non-lethal to knock them out. We'll deal with that if it comes up.
Stealth +10 = 25
Hope SinclairDrake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 Wednesday May 13th, 2015 12:56:04 AM
Thumb Nikolai, shall I follow using stealth, or stay with the rest. I am capable remaining in the shadows.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Wednesday May 13th, 2015 11:48:11 AM I'm not William, sure do wish he was here right now, but I know stealth, I'll go.
DM Warren - On the road again d20+10=23 ; d20+17=33 ; d20+8=27 ; Wednesday May 13th, 2015 3:53:24 PM Jasper vents some rage at the Sergeant as he deprives him of his insignia. The armor is harder to deal with without removing the manacles though. Pru helps prepare the bodies for burial once the others return from the wagons.
The others make their careful way to the caravan to see about the teamsters. While quiet, the ears of those they are approaching are hyperalert, as if they have been straining to hear when the soldiers would return. From the fact that those approaching are moving stealthily, it is obvious that it is not Helmbane's fist that is returning. A voice calls from the dark wagons:
We surrender! A solitary wererat comes out with his hands in the air and no visible weapons. Please don't kill us, we were only following orders.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Wednesday May 13th, 2015 8:12:07 PM
OOC: DM, from following the caravan, how many wagons are there and how many were left with them? We have four back at our camp, that leaves how many more?
Sorry Michael, it was late... :}
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Wednesday May 13th, 2015 9:06:12 PM
Jasper finishes burying the dead ratmen and awaits Nikolai's return.
AC 20+6 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 12/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday May 13th, 2015 9:14:33 PM
Tinker stands and shows himself, coming into camp to reassure the waggonneers. He helps Nikolai to calm and organize people before bringing the two parties together.
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 Wednesday May 13th, 2015 9:48:34 PM
Hope pets Drake and tells him what a good boy he is while they wait on the rest of the fist to return. She keeps an eye towards their prisoner to make sure he isn't slipping his bonds. If need be she will take a turn at digging graves or whatever task is asked of her.
Prudence Gundle [AC 14; HP 39/48] (Kathy) Wednesday May 13th, 2015 10:21:48 PM
Pru helps keep an eye on the prisoner, and awaits the others' return.
She tries to avoid heavy lifting. Or digging.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+12=14 ; Thursday May 14th, 2015 12:10:29 AM
Nikolai warns Tinker "Watch out, it could be a trick. He could have a hidden dagger or something. Michael, keep vigilant, the others could be trying to circle around. Stay here until they are all out in the open."
Still in the dark, he calls back, "Well enough. Everyone get out in the open with your hands up and over your heads." Knowing exactly how many should be left in camp, he waits until they are all out in the open before showing himself. Meanwhile he pays careful attention in case there is an attempt to ambush them.
Perception + 12 = 14 oops!
DM Warren - On the road again Thursday May 14th, 2015 2:41:36 PM
The surrendering rat appears to be on the level as he gestures behind him for the others to join him. All told, there are four ratmen, which would account for the drivers of each of the four wagons.
AC 20+6 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 12/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday May 14th, 2015 9:20:35 PM
The waggonneers were darken too? Tinker's head reels. No wonder they couldn't pin on one group! Because there were multiple groups covering for each other. Without one MO, it became extra difficult to identify a culprit.
Tinker has to admire the an, and at the same time wants to Thief-Catch the brain behind the outfit.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Thursday May 14th, 2015 9:28:20 PM
Michale assists in rounding up the caravan, The wererats seem like loyal fist members, but at the same time, they cannot be trusted, He acts accordingly
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 Thursday May 14th, 2015 9:56:27 PM
Hope continues her duties around the camp.
Prudence Gundle [AC 14; HP 39/48] (Kathy) Friday May 15th, 2015 12:30:20 AM
Pru is releived that everything seems to be going so peacefully, but she frets about the fate of their prisoners once they return to the Citadel. Sergeant Helmbane was....well, he had never been very nice to Prudence, it's true. And he hadn't been her sergeant; that was Trimmack. And...
But still, she knew him, and she would feel bad if...if his punishment were too harsh. She bites her lip and frets for a while.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Friday May 15th, 2015 12:53:07 AM
It would take too long to get the horses hitched up to the wagons so Nikolai takes the ratmen-teamsters' word of surrender for what it is. Once all four are together he marches them back to his camp. Once their, he has Jasper and Tinker make sure they carry no weapons and then has them tied up as well.
"We don't want to leave the horses and wagons unattended, so let's move this lot back to their old camp. Come morning we hitch up a wagon and head back to the Citadel. Helmbane is probably right in that once this caravan doesn't make it to their rendezvous point, the Big Cheese will have split. Hopefully to leave the Mailed Fist alone forever."
In the morning they hitch up the wagons and Nikolai puts the prisoners in the back of the lead one. Each Fist member takes their pick of a wagon to bring back. Nikolai follows on foot behind the lead wagon, keeping an eye on the prisoners. Thus they return to the Citadel.
AC 20+6 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 12/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday May 15th, 2015 10:29:14 AM
Tinker smiles; a were-rat called the Big Cheese indeed!
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Friday May 15th, 2015 1:50:01 PM
Jasper strips the uniforms from each and every one of the ratmen (They are Fist right?). He then searches them for weapons and hidden implements they can use for escape. Once that is done they are bound and watched until morning when they all return to the Citadel.
Notes Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Silence, Silence 2/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 2/6 rebuke death used 2/6 calming touch used
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 Saturday May 16th, 2015 5:18:21 AM
Hope takes whatever watch she is assigned to watch over the captives.
DM Warren - On the road again Sunday May 17th, 2015 10:26:27 PM
The wagon drivers look saddened when Nikolai says they're headed back to the Citadel.
Can you not help us? If the pack master disappears, it will certainly benefit your organization, but it will leave our families in is enforced servitude. We serve him because he is the pack master, having fairly defeated the previous one. But service under him nothing like before. We fear for our lives. Our old leader would never have held our families safety for our continued service. But there is nothing we can do...
He is breaking down a bit, obviously distraught.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+4=17 ; Sunday May 17th, 2015 11:42:58 PM
(assuming this is in front of the rest of the group) " So ye know where he is then. I'll tell ye what lad. Ye seem a bit more intelligent than this worthless bag of skin here." He nudges Sergeant Helmbane with his foot. " Ye at least have something more than the jangle of gold in yer pocket to live for. Ye tell us where we can find this pack master, and Flower as my witness, I'll speak for ye at the small and short hearing the Fist will give you. It probably won't save yer skin, I have to tell ye that. Ye went against the Fist and caused men that were yer shield mates ta die. That's unforgivable, and the Fist will not likely spare ye. But, yer families will get to live. They never swore nothin ta the Fist. They never broke their oath. And with this information, you'll allow them to not be held accountable by this pack master. Help us end this." Diplomacy 17 Jasper is telling what he deems to be the truth. The Fist will execute these teamsters just like they will Helmbane. His testimony and even the testimony of a hundred more from the Fist will not bring back those that have died because they lacked the gear they should have had. But at least he and Nikolai's Fist will be able to put paid to this pack master and end this once and for all. hat should allow the teamster's family to live out their lives.
DM note: this is the wagon driver talking. The sole living rat fist member is still unconscious.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Monday May 18th, 2015 2:42:16 AM I don't know Master Steelfist. These guys were operating under duress, they lives of their families being held over their heads for their cooperation. On top of that they are the victims of a terrible curse, lycanthropy, that has to have affected their reasoning. I'm betting that with proper legal representation, full cooperation on their part and a successful conclusion for this, they have a good chance of getting off with banishment, with an outside shot at something more.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Monday May 18th, 2015 8:06:21 AM " If that's what ye believe then ye never seen a soldier tried er doin' somethin' stupid while drunk, lad. The Fist doesn't have a reprimand system. It's harsh, which is why so few ever break the rules. That one must have had friends up in the ranks or there was no real evidence against him when he was caught. Otherwise hebe out on the street or a head on a stick somewhere." Again Jasper indicates Helmbane.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Monday May 18th, 2015 4:25:29 PM Okay. granted. but these guys aren't officer rank, and they were under the direct orders of an NCO. if anything its the NCO or Officers fault. they might have suspected something was wrong, but they couldn't skip the chain of command, they couldn't even speak about what was going on or their families were forfeit. once we find out just how far this rot goes we can start executing folk. but if we start executing grunts for following orders we might as well just get out of the profession of arms.
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 Monday May 18th, 2015 7:21:59 PM
Hope really wants to help save the family members of the men before them. Maybe it was just her nature. At the same time, being new to the Fist, she did not want her first opinion voiced to go against her new thumb.
Trying to be a good soldier, Hope prepares to go wherever she is ordered and will do whatever it takes to keep her new companions safe and accomplish the mission.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Monday May 18th, 2015 7:39:25 PM " Oh, no. I won't be executing anyone unless they try to run. At that point I will use whatever force I need to to stop them. If that force is more than they can handle, but not enough to kill them I will revive them. No, the Fist will convene a tribunal and that body will make the decisions. They are known o be strict though."
Prudence Gundle [AC 14; HP 39/48] (Kathy) Monday May 18th, 2015 9:31:38 PM
[OOC: I assume the group is still separated? And we're not where the stuff is happening?]
AC 20+6 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 12/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday May 18th, 2015 9:39:58 PM
Tinker nods; what Jasper says lines up with what the younger dwarf thinks too. "No promises, but you help end this and I'll also put in a good word with the Captain. "
The. The young dwarf notices Hope and her shaggy. He hasn't had a moment since the fight to make appropriate introductions and now is still not a good time. But leaving her hanging at the edge of the group when she did such good service is no good either.
Tinker goes up to Hope. "Glad to have had your help back there. Very timely. What I would expect a battlemate to do. Daemar Torvalson at your service. "
Once done with that, he turns back to Nikolai. "Looks like an opportunity to get the Big Cheese after all "
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Monday May 18th, 2015 10:13:25 PM
OOC: surely they know immediately they'll be sent back to the Citadel, when the guy spoke up I'm not sure but Nikolai would have passed the information along to the others anyway when they returned and so it is safe to assume we are all together again for this little debate. I would think it is still night time though.
IC: Nikolai likes to let his team mates speak their minds first before speaking up for two reasons: he doesn't want to influence anyone, letting them freely speak their thoughts and he likes to hear ideas first, sometimes they are better than his.
Nikolai speaks loud enough for all the prisoners to hear, knowing Helmbane won't cooperate in any case. "So your Pack Leader is holding your families hostage for your service? What a cheesey way to run an outfit. Look, you are all Mailed Fist members so you know the Court Martial rules. You know we are only Junior Officers and we can't make promises on the outcome of that. The only promise we can make is that we can put in our testimony of your willingness to surrender and co-operate. If you indeed can give the information that puts your Pack Leader away for good, proving that you broke your Oath to the Mailed Fist only under dress and that you would never have done so otherwise, the Mailed Fist judges may make an exception to the rules. We cannot guarantee that but it is a card worth playing, especially since it is the only card you have. He pauses then adds, and your families depend on it as well. If we don't know where they are being held, we can't rescue them."
DM Ken Tuesday May 19th, 2015 3:07:44 AM
Conversation is made, but a decision is not. As of now, the Fist has Helmbane and his new, strange fist in custody. They could turn back and hand the matter over to tribunal, or they could carry on to Isumbre and catch their enemy before he has the chance to run.
Nikolai follows his usual style of leadership, giving his men and women say in the matter. From the side, Helmbane speaks up.
"I know where they are keepin' the lads kin, Nikolai. Their new alpha, he is in Isumbre's Warehouse District, dock #4. I've been there more than once. Its a pretty big spot, an' they've got room enough for hostages."
He spits.
"I can't say how long he will be there, but he was supposed to be there for this stuff. He's been planning a bit of a pow wow with his top boys. You can either take us with you an' we can do him in together, or you can take us back and get that trollop Palance to send you by ship. But for gods sake boy I didn't teach you ta sit around with your thumb up yer butt."
AC 20+6 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 12/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday May 19th, 2015 5:48:42 PM
Tinker is quiet. Trust Helmbane and the rat-Fist to turn on thier boss in the presence of thier boss just on his say-so? Ludicrous! Unthinkable! But they are stuck in a hard spot with a chance to let the big fish get away... The only other option is to let this group go and try and beat feet to Isumbre first.
Hmmm... "If we let 'em go without weapons or armor and only some food, we can get to Isumbre without worrying if they will stab us in the back." He doesn't say it loud, it's not a very good idea.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Tuesday May 19th, 2015 5:56:08 PM " Much as I dislike the way he put it, we are wasting time sir. I move that we return to the Citadel and go to Insumbre by ship. Once there we take this leader down and any that stand with him. If Knight Captain Palance will not hold their trial until we return then we have to take them with us. He is a traitor and will get what he deserves. He should be jailed and not taken along. The others are at least loyal to their kin, and in that I can trust them, to a point. They will get us where we need to be because their families lives are on the line."
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 Tuesday May 19th, 2015 7:31:22 PM
Hope smiles to Tinker, thankful for the kind words. "Thanks, nothing to it."
She listens to all options and takes a chance at voicing her own. "I think taking the prisoners we have back to the Citadel, then taking the fastest mode of transportation, whether that be boat or beating feat is the best option. No offense, but if these traitors turned on the Fist once, they will do it again, especially they feel it is the only way to keep the noose from around their neck. While they may be telling the truth about the chief ratman having their families, perhaps us being delivered to him would be enough for him to free their family members. And it would keep them from facing the judgement of the Fist."
Hope looks to her new companions. "I think taking them with us is asking for trouble, and we certainly can't just cut them loose. I only see one viable option."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Tuesday May 19th, 2015 8:13:03 PM
Nikolai knows that Helmbane is just trying to get him rattled. Wasting time, huh! "You were so sure of yourself earlier you chose to keep mum about his location. Now you are singing a different tune. Very interesting," is Nikolai's only response.
He takes the Fist aside to confer. In quiet tones he puts forward their options. "One, we take them back assuring a partial success in our mission, or Two, we take them to Isumbre in hopes of total success. If we go back, that is at least two days travel and then however long it takes to get to Isumbre by ship. Too long for my liking. If we take them to Isumbre, we risk them being able to get away but maybe the Fist can hunt them down later. One thing for sure, we cannot enlist their help. They already proved treacherous and I'm sure Helmbane would stab anyone of us in the back, given the chance. What they say about their Big Cheese may or may not be true, but we can't give them any slack.
One idea is to take them to Isumbre and leave them tied up somewhere outside of town, that way we know they've no chance to outrun us and warn their Big Cheese. If they've gotten loose once we get back, so be it. Entering town, Jasper can be wearing my special hat so he looks like Helmbane. Jasper can probably do the best imitation of him. We proceed to the warehouse and pretend we are Helmbane's Fist. If asked about the lack of wagon drivers, we tell them they were sent off as a decoy when we suspected we were being followed.
In any case, we can't just let them go, they probably can beat us to Isumbre and we can't risk that."
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Tuesday May 19th, 2015 9:11:52 PM
OOC DM Ken, how long will it take to travel to Insumbre by caravan? How long will it take to get there by boat from the Citadel? How long does it take to get to the Citadel with our prisoners?
I ask because I get the impression we could return to the Citadel and sail to Insumbre in less time than we could walk there with the wagons. This path also leaves us options for the prisoners. That's the impression I got from Helmbane's speech.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Tuesday May 19th, 2015 10:47:22 PM We have horses and we can put them in a place where they have none. Let all but Helmbane go, tell them they are ordered to return, best speed to the citadel per Nickolai's authority as Fist and put themselves into custody. Those that return, will have gone a long way towards proving themselves as loyal, those that do not will be named Nemesis, and hunted. This allows us to get to Isumbre before anyone can get the news, it seperates the sheep from the goats so to speak, it gets rid of the threat of having unknown agents at our back when we assault the "big cheeze" and it reduces our logistical train as we travel.
DM Ken Tuesday May 19th, 2015 10:54:20 PM
Ooc: Honest answer, I don't know.
One of the things we don't have for this map is a scale. I intend to make a list of travel times for each city.
SO. For right now, having read back, you were only a few days on the road with the wagons with a long way to go. If you head back, you will be home in two days, and smooth sailing granted, you should be to Isumbre in 3 days at sea. So five days total.
If you keep moving ahead, with wagons, you can figure another 14 days of travel.
Prudence Gundle [AC 14; HP 39/48] (Kathy) Tuesday May 19th, 2015 11:01:34 PM
"We should take them back to the Citadel," Pru says. "I think we can request that Captain Palance delay their court-martial until we return from Insumbre. After all, we may return with more evidence."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Wednesday May 20th, 2015 12:56:19 AM and what I mean by we have horses, we can put the wagons off the road, hide them and take the horses from the wagons.
DM Ken Wednesday May 20th, 2015 9:53:50 AM
Opinions given, all that remains is for Nikolai to reach a decison.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Wednesday May 20th, 2015 10:59:45 AM
If it is nearing dawn, or when dawn breaks, Jasper needs to stop to pray. He renews his spells and prays from something more useful for controlling prisoners.
Notes Old spell list Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Silence, Silence 2/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 2/6 rebuke death used 2/6 calming touch used
Notes new spell list...( do the daily uses refresh if we are not able to rest?) Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Hold Person, Hold Person 2/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 2/6 rebuke death used 2/6 calming touch used
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Wednesday May 20th, 2015 12:08:01 PM if we take these guys back to the citadel, whatever agents the big cheese has there will report back to him, even if we try to pull a switch out, there is still a chance. if we let these little fish go we have a better chance of getting the big fish.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Wednesday May 20th, 2015 1:10:58 PM Okay a good plan might be for Hope to ride back post hast to the Citadel while we trudge on toward Isumbre. She could take the disguise hat with her and stash her mount and wolf out of sight, when she gets to the citdel she relays the story to the Captain. The Captain sends out a relief column to take the prisoners in custody and possibly supply us with horses or a quick route to Isumbre. This way we dont lose any time towards Isumbre, the mission stays fairly secret, and get rid of the prisoners. if the Captain has reson to suspect any of the troops she sends, she could either draw them from one of the other Citadels or give them orders to not bring the prisioners back till after we reach Isumbre.
OOC: this is reposted from the email thread.
AC 20+6 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 12/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday May 20th, 2015 9:00:16 PM
Tinker doesn't say anything, just nodding with Prudence's idea and waiting for Nikolai to set the direction for the team.
Prudence Gundle [AC 14; HP 39/48] (Kathy) Wednesday May 20th, 2015 10:34:10 PM
"I like Michael's suggestion, too," Pru says. "That is, if Hope thinks she'll be all right on her own."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Wednesday May 20th, 2015 10:53:00 PM
OOC: I'm sure that the PCs, having spent two years at the Citadel training, would have had the occasion to know a good deal about their surroundings. They probably even took training trips into the wild. So whatever the DM decides is the distance, the PCs would know or have had a real good idea. Part of military training is knowing how fast you can move and not moving to far ahead of your supplies. So figuring out how long it would take the wagons to make it to Isumbre would be an easy calculation to do.
IC: Nikokai makes a decision based upon what he knows of the captives and of the road ahead. "I like parts of your ideas and I plan to use them. Here it is. Since any Ratmen operative at the Citadel won't know Hope is with us, she will return to report to Palance and have a trusted Fist come meet us on the road and take custody of the prisoners. We return post haste. Meanwhile Hope will have advised Palance of our need of a ship, so by the time we arrive, hopefully the fastest ship available will be ready for immediate boarding. We won't even enter the Citadel but go straight to the ship and leave as soon as the tide is right."
Nikolai looks at his Fist for any flaws in his plan. If no major flaw is presented, he gets one of the wagon horses ready and sends Hope back to the Citadel at first daylight. Meanwhile, the rest of the Fist make regular checks to insure the prisoners are secure and when all is ready in the morning, they start back to the Citadel.
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 Thursday May 21st, 2015 3:39:42 AM
Hope smiles to Prudence, "I'll be just fine."
She prepares her things to be ready to leave at first light and report to Captain Palance.
------------- OOC: My apologies for missing yesterdays post. I decided to take a quick nap because I was feeling ill and woke up about 10 hours later.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Thursday May 21st, 2015 9:19:24 AM " Hope, the fist coming to take custody of these rats needs to be using alchemical silver weapons. Be sure that Knight Captain Palance knows this and plans accordingly. If you don't have silver arrows, you might want to get some. These ratmen shrug off mundane and even magical weapons."
DM Ken Thursday May 21st, 2015 12:23:40 PM
Hope turns and rides for the Citadel, with the rest of the Fist and it's captives bringing back the wagons as best they can.
Hope arrives many hours before the rest of her unit, and is rewarded an audience with Palance, who quickly gets word to hold a vessel planning to sail in a few hours. Hope is dismissed after giving a brief report, which Knight Captain Palance takes without betraying any real emotion.
Transporting the prisoners is a dull event, none try to escape, though a few begin to look increasingly worried as they get closer to the citadel. Later, Hope returns at the head of another Fist, riding hard down the road. The prisoners from your charge, Nikolai's plan to skirt the citadel has no hiccups, and he finds the ship, Shark Tooth, waiting for him and his men.
The captain says nothing as they come aboard, but gives a knowing nod and a wink.
Leaving the docks located to the side of the fortress, the ship travels west keeping the coast in sight. For the rest of the morning, the boat traverses the rocky named the Upper King's Channel. About midday, the ship passes the western end of the peninsula and soon it is passing Wedding City.
During the afternoon, nasty looking clouds roll in causing the captain to constantly look at the sky and curse. Crossing Defiles Channel, the ship loses sight of the shore for a few hours.
The captain says, "If we're lucky we'll get there before dark with the building of these winds, assuming we're not caught in the storm."
Almost on cue, the rain begins to fall and the wind begins to blow. The ship hands immediately become very busy adjusting the sails and discussing whether the sails should be taken down. Dragging Nikolai and the Fist aside, he yells over the rainfall patter into their ears.
"We can either wait it out safely in cove near here, or push through! I know your mission, from the Knight Captain, and it's up to you, Agents!"
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Thursday May 21st, 2015 5:19:51 PM How far are we from Isumbre? How about overland? could we make better time if we disembarked at the cove?
DM Ken Thursday May 21st, 2015 5:26:19 PM
The captain squints through the rain, and spits out an answer.
"The storm winds gave us a boost. We could be in near twilight if we could hold a steady course. Of course, that also brings the risk of collisions and navigating this whale at sea during storm, since we will have to pull away from the coast line. If we hit the cove, we avoid all that, but we arrive about mid-day tomorrow."
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 Thursday May 21st, 2015 7:03:05 PM
Hope frowns, "I'm no sailor, and I am sure the Captain knows best, but I don't think a half-day to days travel is worth braving the storm. Not when we have already saved as much time as we have. We are already scheduled to be there well before the wagons would have arrived, are we not?"
AC 20+6 T15 F15 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 12/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday May 21st, 2015 7:18:39 PM
Tinker nods as Nikolai makes the call and the Fist swings into action. He makes sure Hope has enough food and water for the dash back to the Citadel, knowing better than to mouth silly sentiments or unwanted advice. Just ensuring she has the items she needs, Tinker shows she is a member of the team.
Guarding the prisoners is a dull affair but Tinker keeps his duty about him when on guard. He makes an attempt with one of the ratmen to learn something to protect the families supposedly held hostage. "Anyway for us to know your kin, or they know we are coming to the rescue? A token or saying you have used?" Whether it works or not, soon the relief is there. And the arrival at the Citadel is a whirlwind affair, soon getting aboard a Mailed Fist ship!
Tinker has been in small boats, but a large ship is like a floating house, and he enjoys himself immensely until the wind starts picking up. "14 days for the caravan to make the city right? I think we could take a day of shelter, Thumb. "
Whatever the choice, Tinker takes off his armor and carefully stows it along with his urgrosh. No sense in drowning!
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 16 Tch 16 Ffted 13 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Thursday May 21st, 2015 9:59:20 PM
Nikolai sees Tinker's idea and expounds on it. He has the prisoners give him the names of their kin and writes each one down alongside the prisoner's name. "If this is to work, we need to make it look like we are part of the pack at least in some small way."
Nikolai is relieved when Hope returns with the relief Fist and congratulates their new member for her expedience. "Well done, Hope. Captain Palance made a smart choice in sending you to us," he grins.
The boring, yet tense task of escorting the prisoners done, they hightail it back to town and meet the waiting ship. "This is going to be quite the story to tell dad. I don't recall him ever being out to sea. He did fly in a magical wagon but he's never been on a ship, Ha!" He reminisces out loud to his friends, "If we had that magic flying wagon my dad help capture from the Al Mathir, we would be there by now. Oh well."
Nikolai does not have sea legs and agrees that the risk of the storm is greater than the reward of not loosing a day. "We put in at that cove you suggest," he tells the captain of the ship, then asks, "Do you know that cove well? Any chance of danger from other sources? We should keep a close watch at all times."
He lets his Fist choose watch duties and picks one with Hope. He senses that they have a good bit in common. She seems the type more attuned to nature like he is to some degree and wants to get to know her better and how best to utilize her skills. He doesn't want her to feel left out, considering everyone else pretty much knows where they best fit in.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Thursday May 21st, 2015 10:44:51 PM
Jasper disappears as soon as they get on board the ship. As the seas get rougher, he reappears on deck. His complexion is a bilous green and he looks awful. He makes his way to the rail and heaves his lunch out to sea. Between trips to the rail he manages to weigh in on the plan." Flower's dainty feet this is awful. I move we wait it out in the cove. This heaving deck is worse than any nag you could put me on. I am so sorry I was in favor of this route, but it is saving us a bunch of time. Oh gods, not again, clear the rail!!"
Prudence Gundle [AC 14; HP 39/48] (Kathy) Friday May 22nd, 2015 12:11:41 AM
Pru's one comfort during the voyage is that she is not as sick as Jasper. She feels quesy and disoriented, but she never loses her lunch over the side. Well, except that one time, but nobody saw.
She isn't in any particular hurry to reach their destination, and agrees that it is better to be safe than sorry. Prudent, in fact.
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 Friday May 22nd, 2015 1:25:18 PM
Hope quickly got used to the swaying of the ship. Keeping both legs slightly bent helped immensely. That being said, she was very much relieved by the decision to find a cove to weather the storm.
-----
OOC: Got to get my post in early, heading out out of town to go camping for the weekend and not sure I'll be able to post again.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Friday May 22nd, 2015 1:26:38 PM
After a few trips to the rail, Jasper's stomach is empty and settles a little. He is still green, but no longer incapacitated by the nausea. He removes and cleans his armor and weapons, then cleans himself up. By then the glint of a warrior hatching a plan has returned to his eyes, replacing the fears of a dwarv who will drown at any moment. He gathers his new friends together ad says what's on his mind. First, he speaks to the newest member of the group, introducing himself to Hope. Jasper is probably one of the oldest dwarves you have ever seen. Despite his apparent age, he still moves with the practiced gait of a warrior and almost glows with a clam inner strength. His beard is snow white with only the vaguest hints of the lusterous red it must have been in his youth. His head is naturally bald, and shows scars only a true warrior could have survived attaining. Usually, he wears solid looking full plate with red trimmed white vestments over it,like a surcoat. Around his neck is worn an ancient looking holy symbol of Flower. now he is dressed like a deckhand, but the symbol remains around his neck, and the paired axes are still on his back. " Lass, it is good to meet you. Despite what you may have seen while we fought and dealt with those traitors, I am a loyal man. I was a member of the Fist over a hundred years ago, until I met the woman I loved more than anything, We settled down and made a family. My last boy was the end of her though. Either she was too old, or he came at the wrong time, only Gargul knows. I resented the boy for a long time, until Flower showed me that he and the other children were a symbol of the love that I had for Mica and I was a fool to scorn that love now that she was gone. So I took up Flowers symbol and started to follow her ways." "My boy, he decides to enlist in the Fist like his old man. There were plenty of kids ahead of him to inherit the mines and he wanted, just as I had all those years ago,to make his own name for himself. With my other young'uns safe and secure, married or set to the tasks they would dedicate their lives to I followed him to watch his back in the Fist. He is now a recruit to the bear riders, but they stuck me here with the Agents, said I could help them, and my boy more here. Now I see what they meant. These rats have burrowed a hole into the very structure of the Fist and they kill the soldiers through depriving them of the tools they need to do their jobs. These Agents are young and can use some guidance for sure, but they are smart and resourceful, and I can learn as much from them as they can from me. I look forward to learning from you too. Maybe you can make me more at ease with riding, in case Palance ever sees fit to let me be with my boy." He extends his hand to her and her companion both, instinctively knowing, maybe from watching his son with the bears, that they are a whole, rather than 2 separate parts. " All this brings me to wonderin' about the plan to end this slow bleedin' of the Fist. We know where this big rat lives, and we know somethin' about his people, their loyalty and how leadership is determined among them, so what's our plan? You always seem to like to sound out yer soldiers, so if I may, I'll offer ye my insights to this operation Nikolai." "They respect strength but apparently they deplore the strong arm tactics their lord is usin' to make them compliant. They said that leadership is won by killin' the leader. To look at the shifty little scrags I would guess that killin' is done in the dark o' the night with a blade in the back. Many f his subjects are not gonna be loyal to him because of how he uses their kin as insurance. To be honest that makes me as physically ill as this boat rockin' too and fro. Problem is he will have a hardened core of followers about him, and they won't be the little ratlings we fought in the woods. They'll be hardened killers. As I see it, out best bet is to land in Insumbre, infiltrate the base as quickly and deeply as possible, and kill him. N talkin' to him, no negotiatin'. He has led to the deaths of a bunch of the Fist already and is capable of killin' dozens more by bleedin' them of the supplies they need to carry on. He should get no quarter. If we can accomplish that cleanly, I think we stand a chance of all but that hard core group of his comin' to our side and callin' us their new leader." "As to gettin' inside, it will probably be all blood and blades. Nothin' in our demeanor strikes me as people he would hire to work for him. Why? Because we all have a spine. We will stand out like a sore thumb their midst. I doubt any of them would ever befriend a wolf, and armored and capable fighters , especially dwarves like myself and Tinker just won't be able to blend very well. Last reason, and it's a pretty big one, I won't lie to them to get inside. Lets face it, to people I don't know I'm about as cuddly as a teddy bear made from pointy shale. Even you lot saw that when I first joined you. They are murderers and thieves and I have no use for them. Had I not believed the drovers about how they were being used we would be on a ship full of lamp oil and I would be pushing for us to just crash it into their warehouse and light it ablaze while we sat outside with silver tipped crossbows to kill the stragglers. But, those drovers spoke true. They know what they are doin' hurts folks but are forced by their love o' their kin to do it. It's a sentiment I can understand. " " So hit them hard, and fast and penetrate to their core and kill the leader. That is what I propose. Flower compels me to try to spare those that have been used like the drovers have been. I can use the names and examples that you all collected from them, to try and Enthrall the guards around him. It is a prayer of hers fraught with the possibility of going wrong, but if I can get them to listen, I might be able to keep the oppressed out of the fight Problem is, I will also be out of the fight. Sir"
Notes Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Enthrall, Calm emotion 0/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 0/6 rebuke death used 0/6 calming touch used
The night is not an easy one, the storm blows the ship and harries it all the way until anchor drop in the small cove between Isumbre and The Citadel. The captains judgement seemed sound, as the ship's beating from the storm seemed to lessen almost immediately among the breakers where the large ocean waves were sapped of their full strength.
The next day the Fist gather on deck to the calls of the Captain gathering his men to make way and set sail. Jasper is out of his usual armor, and in the clothes of a deck hand. Seeing you muster, the captain quits his shouting and trots over.
"As soon as this fog clears, we will be on the move. That should put us in Isumbre still at midday or before and.. "
The captains voice is cut off by the shouting of men. Annoyed, he turns to yell at his boys but cuts his shout off. He points to the fog, then draws his cutlass and spits out his pipe.
"Boarders! We be under attack!"
The is the wet sound of feet flapping against rock from above the ship, then silence for a brief moment, followed by four echoing thuds of something very heavy landing on the ship. Through the din of the fog you could make out four dark shapes. Now that they are on the lighted ship, you can see the scaly flesh of these humanoid attackers, with their large teeth and spiky hair, two immediately set to work slashing with their nasty claws on ships crew. Two more set their beady eyes on the Agents! One rips into Hope with his jagged teeth, and the other slashes his claws across Jaspers chest!
Surprise Round:
Monster Actions: ???'s storm the ship! Jump vs DC 12 Passed x4.
1st Round, Top:
Monster Actions: 2 ??'s kill 2 crewmen!
??? vs Hope: Bite hits AC 22 vs 17 (flat-footed till you act) for 11 damage! ??? vs Jasper: Claw hits AC 17 vs AC 10 (assuming no armor, yes shield, flat footed) for 6 damage!
Link to map in header!
As Always!
I save a copy of the map round by round.
Move your own token.
Honor system for AoO's and movement allowance!
Enemy Info: 10 ft reach, Claw Attack, Rend Attack, Bite Attack!
Knowledge Nature DC 15 to identify!
AC 15 Touch 11 FF 14 CMD 18 HP 45/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+7=14 d10+7=14 Friday May 22nd, 2015 7:12:42 PM
With no armor to slow the beasts claws, Jasper's flesh rips easily when the critter slashes him. He knows this fight needs to end as quickly as possible so he springs into action. Calm emotions might save the crew, but casting it here will get him slashed again, and the creatures might be mentally tough enough to resist the effect. In the end he chooses to just try to put the creature in front of him down. 5 foot step and attack Power attack Attack hits AC 14 for 14 damage
Notes Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Enthrall, Calm emotion 0/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 0/6 rebuke death used 0/6 calming touch used
AC 15 Touch 11 FF 14 CMD 18 HP 45/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Friday May 22nd, 2015 7:16:35 PM
By the way, I am only allowed to view, not edit the map, so I cannot move.
AC 15+6 T15 F10 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday May 22nd, 2015 9:54:57 PM
Tinker is vulnerable without his armor, but also right under the claws of one of the monsters. He grabs his urgrosh and weaves a defensive line to not let the creature past him.
"What are these monsters?", he shouts to the other Agents.
Full Defensive, AC +6
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 d20+4=14 ; d20+6=19 ; d20+6=18 ; d8+10=13 ; d8+10=18 ; Friday May 22nd, 2015 10:27:38 PM
Hope grimaced in pain, steps back and fires.
Sorry, can't see map .
Knowledge Nature: 14 or 18 if Monstrous Humanoid (someone please aid another just in case).
Attack: 9 or 13 Attack2: 18 or 22 Damage: 13 or 17 Damage2: 18 or 22 Second numbers are if Monstrous Humanoid.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20=19 ; d20+15=24 ; d20+9=24 ; d4=4 ; 3d6=7 ; Saturday May 23rd, 2015 12:21:45 AM
OOC: I cannot edit the map either.
The buzz starts again. The huge monstrous shapes appearing out of the mist, the blood, the sceams. Chaos reigns, and things get panicky, but for Michael time seems to slow down, He has seen these creatures before, in a book in the library. He watches as one of them reaches down to take a bite out of Hope, and he moves. He tumbles past the beast to position himself where he can flank it against Hope. He then runs his rapier up the inside of the creatures thigh, past its pelvis and into it's abdominal cavity. A gush of rancid blood follows the blade out.
Know nature 19 acrobatics 24 to hit ac 24 damage rapier sm 4 pts back stab 7 pts 3 pts bleed damge per round = 11 +3 beginning of creatures turn.
DM Ken - Battle on the Sea Fang! Saturday May 23rd, 2015 4:35:43 AM
Ooc: permissions should be fixed, sorry about that.
boat and Michael easily identify the scaled creatures as Scraggs, cousin to the troll.
DM Ken - Battle on the Sea Fang! Saturday May 23rd, 2015 4:35:43 AM
Ooc: permissions should be fixed, sorry about that.
Hope and Michael easily identify the scaled creatures as Scraggs, cousin to the troll.
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 48/48] (Kathy) Saturday May 23rd, 2015 8:58:59 AM
As is her standard practice, Pru had cast extended Mage Armor on herself and Nikolai at the beginning of the day. And now more of her companions need her help.
Tinker is right there, and unarmored, so Pru casts Mage Armor on him first.
"Better than nothing, right?" she asks him. Then, "Can you scooch over so I can get Jasper, too?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+8=11 ; Sunday May 24th, 2015 7:56:35 PM
NIkolai had just about thanked the gods that they had managed to weather the storm unscathed when the attack commenced. Thankful that Pru always buffed him up with Mage Armor first thing when they awaken, he first sees that the attack, so far, comes from only one side. With a shout to the sailors on the starboard side to man the rails and fight any new boarders, he moves next to Jasper and joins in the defense of the ship.
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 Monday May 25th, 2015 7:31:23 PM
Czeching in. I was under the impression today was not a Woldian holiday.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Monday May 25th, 2015 8:29:53 PM
OOC: DM must be busy with the BBQ. We here in Dallas are busy trying to stay away from tornadoes!
AC 15+6 T15 F10 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday May 25th, 2015 10:01:39 PM
Time slows. Droplets of seawater sparkle in the moonlight as it hangs in the air. The dwarves urgrosh spins in a silver cascades of reflected light to Block a reaching claw...
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 48/48] (Kathy) Monday May 25th, 2015 10:48:21 PM
Even as she is trying to maneuver close enough to armor her friends, Pru is using her best tactical-mage thinking to try to calculate the best use of her other spells. Of course, it's going to depend on whether the enemy stays bunched like that, or whether they spread out. Or whether there are more of them....
DM Ken - Battle on the Sea Fang! Tuesday May 26th, 2015 12:54:51 AM
Late post incoming. I had to drive to Oklahoma City from Chicago.
Tinker quickly takes a defensive position, deciding not to press his luck until everyone is on the same page. He asks about the monsters, and though Hope and Michael figure it out, neither has time to reveal their information yet.
Having figured out her foe is in fact yet another vile monstrous humanoid, Hope aims for the sweet spot, and sinks her second arrow deep into a Scrags white underbelly. (Hope, please give me a rundown of your damage modifiers, I think I'm missing where one of your numbers are coming from.)
Michael wants to flank with Hope, but has two problems. The first is that she is holding a bow, so it's impossible for her to distract the enemy in such a way. Luckily, Drake is there, and can help Michael get the distraction he needs. Using his swift and agile feet, he solves the second problem, his position. Tumbling into place, he draws a gash across the Scrag which bleeds readily.
Prudence moves to support her allies, gifting her usually armored companions a taste of magical armor. So lightweight!
Jasper and Nikolai both move to engage the creatures, but find their attacks bouncing off of scaly thick hide!
End Round 1.
Round 2.
The scrag which took the brunt of the Fists attacks pauses a moment, looking down at Hopes arrow.. He glares menacingly at Hope, but cannot reach her, so he spins and tries to tear apart Michael!
Scrag 1 vs. Michael: Bite 13, Claw 14, Claw 28 (crit confirm vs AC 24) for 14 damage.
The second Scrag in the lines of the Agents looks confused. Its dull eyes try to find the largest threat, then finally it seems to decide against the squat dwarf it has already slashed.
Scrag 2 vs Random = Jasper: Bite 26, Claw 13, Claw 22 for 22 damage.
The third creature pauses a moment to lick the dripping gore of the sailor from his talons, then takes a loping step towards Nikolai, and tries to savage the Thumb, but the canny monk dodges all the lumbering attacks.
Scrag 3 vs Nikolai = Bite 9, Claw 11, Claw 19.
The final Scrag continues his rampage through the sailors, scooping one up and gnawing through his throat before tossing him aside.
The crew begin to panic, as they are simple sailors and not hardened Fist mercenaries. They scurry for below decks, but one is not so fortunate, and is caught in a wide lunging bite that nearly pierces him from check to back.
The captain, made of sterner stuff, draws a crossbow and fires, before slashing with his cutlass! The scrag makes him pay for the gambit, but the captain remains standing.
Scrag Info: AC 16, Regeneration, 10 ft reach, Claw Attack, Rend Attack, Bite Attack!
AoO vs Nikolai miss.
AoO vs Captain hit for 11 damage.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+9=20 ; d4=4 ; 3d6=12 ; Tuesday May 26th, 2015 3:05:03 AM
With frightening speed the big Skrag whirls on Michael, He dodged the bite and one of the claws but the inviting target the beasts presents offers too much temptation for him to resist, off balance from it's spin and open from it's attack Michael sinks his rapier deeply into it's throat, the flexible blade slding down into it's chest due to it having to bend over to get to him. He yells Sea Troll!!!
to hit AC 20 rapier = 4 sneak attack 12 total 16.
ooc: scrags only regenerate when in contact with water. is it still raining?
Dm Ken: He didn't regenerate any health. The rain is gone.
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 48/48] (Kathy) Tuesday May 26th, 2015 8:19:02 AM
Pru casts Mage Armor where she is standing, then steps up to touch Jasper to deliver the spell. "That's everybody, I think," she says.
[OOC: Doing it that way should avoid an attack of opportunity, even against a 10-foot reach.]
AC 19 Touch 11 FF 18 CMD 18 HP 23/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+7=26 ; d10+7=12 ; d20+7=25 ; d10+7=13 ; Tuesday May 26th, 2015 10:01:10 AM
OOC Nice Kathy, way to think tactically! IC Jasper is bleeding badly and the creature is unscathed. If he moves away, Nikolai will be squeezed between two of the manglers and sorely pressed. His companions have wounded the one to his right but not killed it. Something has got to give. Himself, Michael, Hope and the captain are hurt. One spell will not help them all, but Flower's embrace will heal them all, and the Troll. Coughing blood the dwarf makes his choice. " Hope! help me put this one down or I'm finished. Leave the other to the Wolf and Michael." His beard now as red as it was in his youth he prays silently to Flower to let him not falter. Too many people are depending on them. With a roar he swings again at the beast in front of him, holding nothing back. Power attack Attack hits AC 26 for 12 damage His axe sinks deep into the creature's shoulder. With a grunt he rips it free and heroically swings again. Attack hits AC 25 for 13 damage Spent, he cowers behind his shield, waiting for the next assault of claws and teeth.
Notes Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Enthrall, Calm emotion 0/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 0/6 rebuke death used 0/6 calming touch used -1 hero point
AC 19 Touch 11 FF 18 CMD 18 HP 23/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Tuesday May 26th, 2015 10:18:03 AM
OOC I get all of Hope's numbers to work, except I get her damage bonus as +14 vs monstrous humanoids if she has deadly aim going. She should be at +10 to hit, +14 to damage
to hit +5 bab +3 dex +1 enhancement +1 Point Blank, +4 monstrous humanoid -2 rapid shot -2 deadly aim Damage +4 str, +1 enhancement +4 monstrous humanoid +4 Deadly aim +1 Point Blank
Without deadly aim I get +12 to hit and + 10 to damage
That's a pile o' modifiers 8).
Also looks like there was a typo, her first attack should have hit AC 19 or 23 instead of 9 or 13. From what I can see that troll looks to have like 25 more damage coming from last round.
DM Ken: Thanks bud. And I agree, looks like a typo there. That changes things significantly.
AC 19 Touch 11 FF 18 CMD 18 HP 23/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Tuesday May 26th, 2015 10:25:42 AM
OOC Also folks, please update your headers, making me reread several DM posts to know how hurt you are is cruel.
DM Ken - Battle on the Sea Fang! Tuesday May 26th, 2015 11:12:24 AM
DM Ken OOC: In light of hopes typo and adjusted damage, Scrag 1 has an additional 25 damage as adjusted on the map.
Hope: I noticed you were only rolling d20+6 to hit. I think you should be rolling d20+10 (or +12 if not using deadly aim). You damage also didn't account for deadly aim.
The Scrag is still up, but teetering hard.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP29/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Tuesday May 26th, 2015 12:37:35 PM
ooc: updated
AC 15+6 T15 F10 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+8=17 ; d8+3=4 ; Tuesday May 26th, 2015 5:36:59 PM
Everyone is engaged, so Tinker needs to get into action and be more offensive! First, he needs to address the captain and the bleeding Jasper.
"Captain! Withdraw, and to get your men below for a last line of defense."
There! That takes care of the captain. Now for Jasper.
Tinker steps up beside the sea troll attacking Jasper and throws his weight into a hard/with his urgrosh!
.... AC 17. Dam 4
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 47/47 -- CMD 22 d20+10=18 ; d20+10=17 ; d8+14=15 ; d8+14=17 ; d20+3=20 ; d6+1=4 ; d20+4=23 ; Tuesday May 26th, 2015 6:02:09 PM
Hope hears Jasper's plea and sends two arrows towards the Scrag that is attacking him... she only hopes it is enough to help. Knowing the creature's language, she hopes she can goad it into attacking her instead of Master Steelfist using a few giant insults she picked up in the Scab.
In Giant: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Hey Sea Hag, yeah you, the flop eared, elf-lover I just put two arrows in... why don't you fight something a little more your speed... like me."}
Intimidate Scrag #2 in an effort to get him to attack Hope: 23
-----------
OOC: I was using Deadly Aim and Rapid Shot. I also was not certain at that time whether or not they were Monstrous Humanoid. Plus I was camping and posting from my phone. I also could not see the map hence, why I was so nondescript in my post.
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 36/47 -- CMD 22 Tuesday May 26th, 2015 6:03:59 PM OOC: Sorry, forgot to update header... that's better.
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 36/47 -- CMD 22 Tuesday May 26th, 2015 6:05:41 PM
And finally, the intimidate would be 27, with a +4 vs. Monstrous Humanoid... ok I am done... I promise.
DM Ken: Intimidating an opponent to demoralize in combat is a standard action. I assume you'd rather keep your attacks?
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 36/47 -- CMD 22 Tuesday May 26th, 2015 7:49:13 PM
OOC: Yes, more for fluff than anything. Feel free to ignore the roll. She is hoping her words anger the Scrag so that he attacks her. Wishful thinking, but you never know.
DM Ken - Battle on the Sea Fang! Tuesday May 26th, 2015 10:14:15 PM
(Just waiting on Nikolai, tough fight, so I'm not skippin anyone.)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+5=16 ; d20+5=14 ; d6+3=8 ; Tuesday May 26th, 2015 10:15:03 PM
Nikolai tries not to get emotional over his friends' injuries, part of his monk training, emotional stability in the face of chaos. And this certainly fit the bill. He continues to slap the creature threatening Jasper and himself.
Flurry of Blows: Att1 +5 = 16, dmg 8 if hit. Att2 +5 = 14, pretty sure its a miss.
DM Ken - Battle on the Sea Fang! d20+8=16 ; d8+5=11 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+8=12 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+8=9 ; d20+9=24 d20+9=28 d8=3 d8=1 Wednesday May 27th, 2015 1:13:46 AM
Jasper double downs on offense, and figures he won't out-tank the troll, but maybe they can focus it down. For his part, he performs admirably, tearing large chunks of meat from the scrag.
Hope does her part too, loosing arrows into the scrag in a violent hail of doom. Her taunt perks the creatures ears, but he cannot make it to her, so he shrugs off the words. Her wolf moves into position, and takes a set of snapping troll teeth for it's trouble. In return, he locks his jaws on the scrags leg. Drake takes 11 damage AoO.
Michael takes the enemy attack in stride, and trades a wound for a kill, sinking his blade far enough into the troll that it collapses in a heap at his feet.
Tinker jumps in as well, and the Scrag begins to look a bit panicked at the focused assault, and screams for help from it's feasting comrade, only to realize it has no voice. Looking down at it's bleeding throat, it falls in a flap on the deck.
Prudence successfully gives Jasper something more than hope to rely on.
Nikolai finally lands a blow on the creature, and which had been impervious to his fists thus far.
End Round 2
Start Round 3
Snarling, one of the Scrags lopes within reach of hope and swings, but misses her badly. The second shuffles closer to Nikolai and lets loose a howl of frustration as the slippery elf dodges every attack.
Confident, the captain laughs off Tinkers order.
"I'll not abandon the fight for my ship, Dwarf!"
He drops his crossbow on the deck, retrieves two more, and fires both into the oncoming Scrags.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP29/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+9=23 ; d6=6 ; d20+12=31 ; Wednesday May 27th, 2015 3:14:41 AM
Wishing that he could strike a cool pose as the monster falls dead to his blade, a smile and wince of pain cross he features as he turns from the beast and cracks his neck back in place from where the thing hit him.. He sees the 2nd troll fall and notices the other two move to engage, He won't be able to flank till positions consolidate a bit so he quickly pulls a sling stone from his pocket loads it into his hoopak and hurls it at the beast assaulting Hope and his spell caster. His postion on the forecastle affords him a good view over the heads of his compatriots. the bullet sails true and imbeds itself in the meaty shoulder of the creature. He keeps an eye out for a convenient rope from which to swing,
perception 31 to hit 23 sling bullet 6 pts.
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 36/47 -- CMD 22 d20+10=24 ; d20+10=16 ; d8+14=17 ; d8+14=16 ; d20+3=5 ; Wednesday May 27th, 2015 3:29:52 AM
Hope takes a quick step away from the Scrag near here, and lets two arrows fly towards the Scrag near her Thumb. After seeing Drake take a hit, she yells at him to hold his position, not wanting him to get hurt further.
Attack: 24 and 16 Damage: 17 and 16.
Drake Hold Action to Attack enemy that comes into range: 5 meh.
AC 19 Touch 11 FF 18 CMD 18 HP 23/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+7=10 ; Wednesday May 27th, 2015 10:43:04 AM
Well within reach of the two remaining trolls Jasper has but one mission, keep as many of the Fist alive as he can. Hope is their best "hope" for that since she is a giant killing machine. So his path is clear. He raises his axe and steps into troll 4, swinging hard. Sadly, he misses, leaving him wide open in front of the troll. " If ye can, burn the ones that're down. I know fire is taboo on a ship, but we can't risk them standing back up. Trolls are known for that." Power Attack Attack hits AC 10, miss.
Notes Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Enthrall, Calm emotion 0/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 0/6 rebuke death used 0/6 calming touch used -1 hero point
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 48/48] (Kathy) d20+6=18 ; d6+3=5 ; Wednesday May 27th, 2015 1:26:34 PM
Pru grins. "Did somebody say 'burn'?" she asks.
She steps back from the live troll in front of her and aims an Elemental Bolt at the one on the deck, hoping that it's precise enough to avoid setting the ship ablaze.
[Attack troll #1. Hit AC 18 for 5 points of fiery goodness.]
AC 15+6 T15 F10 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+11=28 ; d20+8=17 ; d8+3=5 ; Wednesday May 27th, 2015 6:16:53 PM
Tinker is glad he was able to help, but now the last skrag is headed for Prudence, Hope, and the Captain! A quick glance sees that Michael, Nikolai, Jasper, and even the dog is fully occupied. Tinker is the only one who can move.
No armor helps Tinker skip across the deck to confuse the skrag and confront it with a dwarven urgrosh! Feint with the spike and overhand with the blade, Tinker snarls. "You enjoy blood? Let's see some of yours!"
Move to in between Prudence and the unengaged Skrag.
Acrobatics to avoid AOO. 28
AC 17. Dam 5
DM Ken - Battle on the Sea Fang! Wednesday May 27th, 2015 9:11:56 PM
(Will post after I get something from Nikolai.)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+8=21 ; d6+3=6 ; Wednesday May 27th, 2015 9:56:54 PM
Spells active: Mage Armor Stunning Fist 3/4
With no time to celebrate their success so far, Nikolai notices Jasper move behind him to help Tinker. That also puts Jasper in danger of being flanked!
He moves 10' to the right to keep the water troll from taking a step forward and swiping at Jasper from behind, but that also opens up an opportunity for Michael to flank the creature as well.
AC24 vs AoO
Att w/Stunning Fist +8 = 21, dmg 6
Stunning Fist: Save Fort DC15 or Stunned for 1 round - can't take actions, loses any Dex bonus to AC, takes -2 penalty to AC.
Michael starts off the assault against the next scrag by thumping it in the chest with a rock. It grunts, barely registering the bullet. When Hope adds her shots however, it yowls in pain! Jasper sneaks inside it's grasp while it yanks out the arrows, but his attack is wild and misses badly.
Prudence relishes the chance to make something burn, and despite their aquatic nature she finds that Scrags burn just fine. The scrag on the deck convulses, then is no more. Tinker rolls over the burning corpse and near the flailing troll, smashing it with his urgosh.
Nikolai moves to position himself out of Michaels way, easily batting aside a swipe from the troll as he moves. He slams a fist into the Troll, which doesn't really seem to notice.
- End Round 3-
- Round 4-
Snarling, the troll lets out a fierce yowl and sets its beady eyes on Prudence, who has just displayed an affinity towards fire. Loping closer to her, he lashes out fiercely, jabbing two gore encrusted claws into her side, then rending flesh apart as it rips them out. It yells something out in it's strange tongue.
In Giant: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Fire witch has burned Scrik!"}
Vs Prudence: Bite 16, Claw 22, Claw 21 for 29 damage.
The last scrag, which has slapped unsuccesfully at Nikolai, steps towards Prudence, but stops to take a shot at another, closer enemy. This Scrag however, is combat deficient, and once more swings stupidly at air, giving Jasper another round of reprieve.
Vs Jasper: Bite 13, Claw 14, Claw 11
The captain of the ship tosses his last two crossbows on the ground and tumbles forward, cutlass and dirk in hand, but his sword bounces harmless off the Scrag.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP29/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+11=27 ; d4=4 ; 3d6=10 ; Wednesday May 27th, 2015 11:50:36 PM
When the opportunity opens up Michael is there like a shot. Charging through the intervening space and running his rapier up into the trolls kidneys, he feels the vibration in the blade subtly change and knows he bisected one of the spongy masses, he wiggles the blade as he withdraws and is rewarded with a veritable fountain of blood from the wound.
to hit AC 27 (+2 for charge) rapier 4 damage +10 for sneak attack = 14 3 points bleed damage per round starting with creatures turn.
AC 19 Touch 11 FF 18 CMD 18 HP 23/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) Thursday May 28th, 2015 11:28:46 AM
OOC Are the sailors obviously dead, dead, really dead (head or limbs missing, completely lifeless) or is there still some hope they are alive?
DM Ken - Battle on the Sea Fang! Thursday May 28th, 2015 1:29:20 PM
DK Ken: A standard action heal check could tell you the answer to that question.
AC 19 Touch 11 FF 18 CMD 18 HP 23/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d20+7=22 ; d10+7=8 ; Thursday May 28th, 2015 5:01:49 PM
Jasper steps up and swings at the troll menacing Prudence. From what he has seen, she is a tough shield sister, but that attack looked pretty bad. Powerattacking Attack Hits AC 22 for 8 damage
Notes Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Enthrall, Calm emotion 0/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 0/6 rebuke death used 0/6 calming touch used -1 hero point
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 29/48] (Kathy) d20+6=11 ; d6+3=9 ; Thursday May 28th, 2015 5:17:52 PM
[OOC: Pru's Armor Class is 18, so unless I'm missing some nuance, the 16 would not have hit her. Based on the DM rolls, I'm extrapolating that she took 19 damage instead of 29, and am updating my header accordingly.]
"Nngh!" Pru staggers and grunts as the sea-troll attacks. "Well," she says shakily, "guess I got their attention."
She sidles over behind Hope and shoots an Elemental Ray at the troll.
[Shooting at troll #4. Hit Touch AC 11 for 9 damage.]
DM Ken: 29 is accurate. Two claws hit for 17, and Rend does an additional d6+7 if both claws hit.
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 19/48] (Kathy) Thursday May 28th, 2015 6:22:45 PM
[OOC: Thanks, DM Ken! Header updated.]
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 36/47 -- CMD 22 d20+14=31 ; d20+14=31 ; d8+14=16 ; d8+14=16 ; Thursday May 28th, 2015 6:27:41 PM
Hope steps back and fire twice more into the nearest Scrag unless of course it is down, in which case she will fire one, or both into the other standing troll. She taunts the trolls back in Giant, Highlight to display spoiler: {"Unless you want to burn like Scrik, you should flee now!"}
Drake continues to follow orders and stay out of harms way.
-----------------
OOC: Miss rolled, the first two should both be 27's to hit.
Attack: 31 Attack: 31 Damage: 16 Damage: 16
AC 15+6 T15 F10 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+11=14 ; d20+8=24 ; d20+8=11 ; d8+3=11 ; Thursday May 28th, 2015 7:37:12 PM
Tinker slides in between the troll and Prudence again, not doing a good job of acrobatics, but not needing it either.
His urgrosh rises and falls to slice the monster. "Die, vile scum!", he shouts!
5 foot move to in between Pru and last scrag
AC 24. Dam. 11
aOO if Scrag moves out of Tinker's threatened area. 11 (miss)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) d20+9=26 ; d6+3=5 ; Thursday May 28th, 2015 11:06:11 PM
Spells active: Mage Armor Stunning Fist 2/4
Nikolai is quite unhappy that his attacks are only making slapping noises and seemingly not harming the creature. A second of deliberation produces a kama, which he proceeds to use against the sea troll.
As Michael closes in, the embattled Troll rips his teeth into the oncoming halfling. ( Hit AC 21 for 11 damage). The Halfling makes a show of causing pain, and the troll bellows again. Jasper switches targets, and tries to peel the Scrag off of Pru. He smacks it with his axe, and is rewarded with a "splotch" as he breaks skin.
Prudence gives the scrag who tore a little piece off something to think about, and is rewarded with a menacing glare as it's flesh sizzles. Tinker jabs his Urgosh into the wound, and the Scrag screams it's last!
The remaining Scrag seems to heed Hope's warning, or maybe it didn't like the torn flesh courtesy of Nikolai and his Kama, and withdraws, leaping overboard with a splash and vanishing under water.
(Withdraw, no AoO)
As quickly and abruptly as it began, the Scrag assault is over!
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP29/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 d20+3=11 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=13 ; Friday May 29th, 2015 12:47:04 AM
When the skrag jumps ship Michael sees the remains of the sailors cut down by their rampage bleeding out on the deck, he rushes to them and begins to triage the remains. Master Steelfist, come quickly! we may be able to save someone!
Heal check for each of the four downed sailors. 11, 22, 23, 13. to stabilize.
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 36/47 -- CMD 22 d20+1=3 ; Friday May 29th, 2015 2:25:47 AM
Hope isn't much in the way of a cleric, or medic, and certainly no nurse, but she will do what she can to help Michael and Jasper patch of the sailors. "Just tell me what to do and I'll do it." The problem is, Hope is getting in the way more than she is helping.
Aid Another: Failure 3
AC 19 Touch 11 FF 18 CMD 18 HP 32/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d6=4 ; d6=5 ; Friday May 29th, 2015 8:31:28 AM
Jasper carries healers kits, and Flower would allow him to tend to a large number of wounded one at a time, but the sailors have been on the deck too long for such half measures. Jasper calls his comrades and the captain closer as he rushes to the sailors. Once all are within range he call's upon Flower to heal their wounds and channels her positive healing energy. He does make sure to move at least 30' from the nearest troll before doing so. Channel energy for 9 healing
Notes Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Enthrall, Calm emotion 1/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 0/6 rebuke death used 0/6 calming touch used -1 hero point
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP27/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Friday May 29th, 2015 10:15:51 AM
updated
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 28/48] (Kathy) Friday May 29th, 2015 4:45:19 PM
Pru lets out a little sigh of relief as the healing energy washes over her. Hopefully, there's more where that came from, but she realizes that everybody will be a little busy for a time.
"Did we lose anybody overboard?" she asks.
AC 15+6 T15 F10 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+11=21 ; Friday May 29th, 2015 8:48:19 PM
Tinker momentarily slumps as the battle is over, but quickly takes a station to guard. Seeing Hope flounder, the dwarf calls bluntly. "Hope! Maybe get your bow and take a watch. We can cover the others as they do their healing. Never know if the skrags may come back. Hmmm, gonna need to burn em too"
After the fight, the ships crew is gathered on the main deck as quickly as possible. The men tensely watch their fallen friends as Jasper focuses his healing channels, and a few of their chests rise and fall once more. The troll remains are burned, ashes scattered. The captain gets a small short party together to bury and say farewell to their lost friends.
Back on path, the ship encounters some gentle rains, the refreshing kind that makes you feel brisk and spry for having been in it. The gentle rain-spatter accompanies you all the way through your journey. Even through the rain, you can see the 1000 Spires of the Cult of Isumbre, which never fails to send chills through the most stalwart heart. As the boat looks for a berth, the bells go off sending a prayer skyward.
A shoreboat rows itself alongside the ship and calls out a dock to the captain. He yells some sea jargon back, and retrieves an item from his belt that looks like a silver shark. He whispers the number into it's ear, then throws it overboard. Within moments, the ship lurches and is steadily dragged to it's pier.
With a wide, toothy grin, the Captain gives a friendly bow to the Agents, with the exception of Hope and Prudence, who each also get a bow with a flourish, wink, and tip of his hat.
"Thanks fer sailin' with me Agents. It's been grand. If not for you, we might have been lost to those damnable Scrags."
The Warehouse District is easy to spot, being pushed right up against the giant piers. The Agents are literally a mile from their goal.
End of Scene Xp: 500 per player. End of Scene Hero Points: +1 to Hope, who has earned the eternal hatred and fear of the Scrags of Dirglet's Cove. +1 to Michael, for wonderfully descriptive battle text and the gory finishing of foes.
AC 15+6 T15 F10 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+7=22 ; Saturday May 30th, 2015 2:15:42 PM
Tinker is happy that the agents were able to win the battle. It was tough, but with teamwork, they were able to win again. And now, the team is able to look across the waters to see the 1000 Spires of Isumbre.
Tinker talks with a sailor as he goes about his duties, learning the local knowledge of the town, docks and warehouse district.
Know Local - 22
Hope Sinclair -- Drake Zach -- AC 20/13/17 -- HP 36/47 -- CMD 22 Saturday May 30th, 2015 5:12:02 PM
Hope smiles back at the Captain as they prepare to disembark. The first chance she gets, she approaches Prudence. "That fiery display back there really got the attention of the Scrags. One of them even called you a Fire Witch. That was quite impressive. You know, almost all of the female recruits at the Citadel look up to you."
Hope also tries to find Jasper. "Thanks for the kind words before. I didn't get a chance to mention that before because of the Scrag attack."
Then to the group she asks, "So what should I know about the 1000 Spires? I'll admit, I don't know too very much about the history. The geography sure, but not much else."
AC 19 Touch 11 FF 18 CMD 18 HP 47/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d6=6 ; d6=3 ; d6=4 ; d6=2 ; Saturday May 30th, 2015 8:19:28 PM
OOC DO we have a plan? If we do can I hear it again? I remember posing as buyers before we caught Helmbane and his crew. But that's done with right? Was the new plan that we know where we are going, kick in the door and carve ourselves a path to the big cheese? Sorry, I get easily distracted by trolls.
IC When some of the fallen Sailors stir Jasper lets out a breath he hadn''t been aware he was holding. He draws any more of the crew that were hurt in as well as making sure his friends that are hurt are close and channels again, then again. Healing 9, then 6 more for a total of 15 healing Once he is assured everyone is feeling better he goes below and changes back into his armor and vestments. He solomnly helps wrap the dead sailors and will accompany the shore detail to bury them, giving them Flower's blessing to take with them into the lands of rest. When he returns and finds out if they are going to assault the warehouse straight away or wait until tomorrow he will decide how to heal any remaining wounded.( I think that is just Pru and myself and a tap from the wand should heal each of us if the raid is today. If it is tomorrow then 2 CLW from Jaspers Spells will do.)
Notes Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Enthrall, Calm emotion 3/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 0/6 rebuke death used 0/6 calming touch used
AC 15+6 T15 F10 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Saturday May 30th, 2015 9:23:07 PM
Tinker watchers the approach of Isumbre. And looks at Nikolai. "We have enough of a lead to rest a day, I think. And then we kick in the door and carve ourselves a path to the big cheese, right?"
The young dwarf has many skills and loves puzzles, but people and tactics he knows nothing about.
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 43/48] (Kathy) Saturday May 30th, 2015 11:32:40 PM
Feeling quite a bit better after the additional healing, Pru smiles at Hope. "Thanks. Fire's about all I do, but I do it a lot." Then she shakes her head. "Look up to me?" she asks. "What for? The only reason the Fist took me at all is because of my magic, and that's just a fluke. If you ask me, they're better off looking up to somebody like you."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Sunday May 31st, 2015 3:37:27 PM
HP adjusted, +1 point for rest. [bThanks Jasper, this is sure a lot better than what Pru makes us do to heal up...she just says to rub some dirt on it.[/b]
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Sunday May 31st, 2015 5:36:42 PM I think we should scout the place out and see what we are dealing with first. If I were a rat or thief I would have an escape route, maybe split the party and have one group waiting at the escape route and the other assaulting. in any case the lay of the land will effect the geometer of the battle. I'd like to try and get the women and the children out before we hit them. If there is one thing if learned in this life it's that it sucks to be a hostage.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 20 Tch 20 Ffted 17 HP 38/38 CMD 22/24(Grapple) Sunday May 31st, 2015 11:48:07 PM
Nikolai oversees the destruction of the sea trolls, glad to learn that they don't regenerate like their land cousins. He looks into the deep waters and wonders what treasure horde they've accumulated and sighs.
"I wish we could compensate the families of these sailors, but if they had any treasure, it will stay put for a long time."
Nikolai smiled inwardly as Pru's reputation grows when Hope mentions how the other female recruits think of her. His own mother was a formidable mage, but she was sent off with a battalion and never came back to the Citadel. Mixed in with many other mages, reputations are harder to garner. But here at the Citadel where most of the inhabitants are recruits, a reputation can stick easier. Of course Nikolai would rather such attention not be upon himself. He has no desire to have a cadre of recruits hanging around him all the time.
With the sailors healed or buried at sea the ship underway again, talk goes back to what plan to use once they arrive. A frontal assault is mentioned, a days' rest and some scouting is also mentioned.
"With the hat, each one of us can make a pass by the warehouse and study it some without raising suspicion so a scouting trip is a good idea. We can locate any obvious exits. I'd rather not just barge in, but gain entrance by subterfuge pretending to be Helmbane with Jasper wearing the hat. Once inside we try to find out where the families are being kept then let loose with all we got. Our group is too small to split up, unfortunately, otherwise having a couple enter through the back door would be a good idea too. But such places probably have traps against such a thing. Best we stick together."
There is still time before they need to choose a plan and the layout of the warehouse may give them some other option.
"At least for now, lets plan on a scouting trip. Tinker likes such things. Wearing the hat can try to get close and look for some means of stealthy entry we might try at night. Perhaps cut a section of roof of and go in that way. Just won't know anything until we get a look at it."
If the group agrees then, they'll first look for a decent inn to 'camp' out at, then start their scouting trips. Each one who wants, dons the hat, taking on some different look, then passing by the warehouse as best they can without raising suspicion.
AC 24 Touch 11 FF 23 CMD 18 HP(56) 51/51 Jasper Steelfist (David Feest) d8=2 ; d8=2 ; Monday June 1st, 2015 12:18:07 AM
Jasper overhears Prudence's response to Hope. His demeanor is light when he answers her question, but his face is serious.
"Lass, you don't seem to understand what they see in you. I belonged to this army for a long time, a long time ago. I know a few things about how they view recruits, and I have seen the file on your unit. Let me explain what they see, and why it inspires them." "Almost to a man, your unit was created to fail. You were an untrained farm girl, with no instinct to fight or kill anything. The halfling ranger you had never saw an order he couldn't find a way around. The cleric in your original group was stoned out of his mind half the time. Even when he knew where he was, he didn't have any martial training or inclination to gain any. Tinker is a dwarf, that has no roots as a dwarf. With no sense of who he is, they saw little to motivate him to accomplish much. Your halfling marksman was a crack shot, but a little more than slightly insane. Nikolai was from an old Fist family, and the paladin was the right kind of recruit to pass muster, but other than that, the double fist was put together to fail out elements that the command structure saw as weak."
"What the other women in the Fist see in you, and admire is that none of you let the command structure be right. You all did well on your individual written tests because you all knew how to think and act on your best hunch. The ones that fail that test are the ones that look at the question and say, 'but we were never taught that' and give up. Your double fist knew they were on the edge of failing out and applied themselves. So what if you don't know the answer? You know that putting SOMETHING down means you have a chance to be correct. So you guess at a few, and drive home the answers on the questions you know."
"Then after that showing they decided to test you in the field, thinking that surely you would fail at that. You were far from a homogenous unit. You were all different and all fought in a different manner. The thing they didn't count on was that you had everything to lose if you failed, which meant that failing was not an option. You blended your various styles together and made a great showing. Then there was the stealth test. Fist doctrine would have made you leave your loud heavy hitters behind and only use your stealthy assets. Instead, you used those without skill at stealth to distract your opponents and screen your stealthers, to great effect. Every time your should have failed, you came out on top."
"Why do they look at you as a shining example? Because against every wager to the contrary, a simple farm girl like you has not only managed to beat the odds, but to make the top of the scuttlebutt list while doing it. Do you think it is a coincidence that your success at holding off the gnolls at Hornfowl boils down to a tale near the end of the fight where you, a skinny farm girl not only stood tall and delivered when it was needed, but are credited with saving most of your fist by refusing to pass out or die like mst mages would have after being used as a chew toy by a massive hyena? Instead the tale goes that you kept burning the beast until IT fell over dead."
"Most soldiers don't want any kind of fragile mage in their unit because they feel they will have to risk their lives to keep that mage alive. Today, as if to add to your growing legend, you kept your entire Fist alive by putting you magic between us and those trolls. I'm old, and about as agile as a three legged cow. Dodging those trolls was going to do nothing to save my hide. But a quick bit o' magic and a touch from you, and I lived to be able to help save a couple of those sailors. You are the stuff of legends to those girls who are used to seeing a girl like Hope in the Fist, not a woman spell slinger. Maybe if some of those girls start believing in themselves because they have you as an example, then more competent women will join the Fist, and things like what Helmbane was originally reprimanded for won't happen."
"That's why you need to be the inspiration that you already are. Hope is proof herself that not only a man can fire a bow with speed accuracy and enough force to drive nails with the arrows. Soldiers expect that kind of strength from their shield mates. The kind of strength, fortitude and toughness you show every time you fight and return not only alive, but figuring prominently in your whole Fist returning alive makes those soldiers think it might not be so bad to have a mage in their Fist." Let them look up to you. Let them reach to be as good as they can be with you as an insperation. The Fist only grows stronger with idols like you to look up to."
Jasper heals himself and Pru since the plan seems to be to wait until tomorrow.
Jasper heals 5 hp Pru heals 5 hp
Notes Spells prepared: Light, Detect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison, CLW(domain), Bless, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith, CMW(domain), Enthrall, Calm emotion 3/3 channel energy used ( 2d6 healing per use) 0/6 rebuke death used 0/6 calming touch used
AC 15+6 T15 F10 CMD 19 (23 Bull Rush or Trip); HP 42/42 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday June 1st, 2015 6:53:08 AM
Tinker shakes his head and smiles. The older dwarf is a good companion (after a rocky start between them), and his heart is definitely in the right place, but he CAN talk your ears off. Tinker thinks a moment. Kind of like home with a family of gnomes", he murmurs before looking at Prudence.
"And why shouldn't women AND men look up to you, Bean Pole? You are a true and trusted battlemate." Tinker doesn't say any more because for him, that settles the matter right there.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC20, T16, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+9(4), R+9, CMB+7, CMD+18 Monday June 1st, 2015 10:46:41 AM
Michael listens to the old dwarf speak, thinks about his words, the contributions Pru has made and his personal experience with Pru. He then pats her on her lower back, smiles up at her and nods affirmative.
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