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Invitation to Join the Dragon Consortium


Valdor the Dragonstone [Jerry] 
Wednesday July 29th, 2015 11:52:58 PM
Silver of hair, Valdor is older than one would expect, appearing about 60. Still strong, but the muscles are now lean and fit instead of bulging--well as bulging as a half-elf gets. He is dressed in light brown with shades of red. He is not wearing his adamantium two-handed sword with golden accents, but it is behind the bar on a shelf. In fact the only things golden on him is his ring and the necklace with the Dragonstone on it.

"Greetings everyone! Please relax. I'm not much on ceremony, but I....have learned to....survive such functions." He grins sheepishly and then his face turns serious for a second as if a thought had just occurred to him. "Please relax, but not too much, as we have business to discuss this night. I am honestly excited to finally get to meet the Iron Dragons.

"I want you to meet Dalinor Tor, a member of our newest Consortium group, The Shining Dragons. She's been shadowing me wherever I go for the past few weeks. I think they have given her the assignment of watching over the old doddering fool, afraid I'll mess up my silver hair and try to dye it blond again."

He grabs his ale off of the bar he's leaning against and holds it aloft. "To the Iron Adventurers! And to the joys and challenges of adventuring!" And in a softer voice, "May it always keep us honest and humble."

He pauses for a second and then smiles winningly. Setting the drink back down, he mingles.

Valdor first glances at Sesha as he has heard so much about her, but sees Dalinor headed her way and smiles. No need to compete for conversation.

He starts conversations trying to get a personal feel for each person.

So he moves towards Restlin and puts offers his hand. "Greetings Restlin. Valdor, at your service. Now it is our honor that you have accepted our invitation to join us this evening. It is way past time that we've had the opportunity to meet you and your friends." He listens and then asks, "I have more details about the group and what you have done with them than I know about you the person. I know you are a Mendicant and a Mage. And I know that you have been with this group since the beginning. I know the facts, but I don't know you. So please tell me about yourself. Why do you adventure? Is it different now from when you started?

Approaching Zane, Valdor says, "Greetings, Zane. I am Valdor. Very glad to meet you sir. How did you come to be a Monk and then a Sorcerer. That is an unusual combination of talents. That has to be a good story. Would you mind sharing some of it with me?"

He walks up to Beri and greets him by his full name. "Beriothan, it is very good to meet you. I know you are another of the original members of the Iron Adventurers. Do you stay in the tower or have a grove of your own outside the city?" When hearing a request for a story, he says, "Then we''ll trade. You tell me a story of the Iron Adventurers and I'll regale you with one of mine. That's only fair. :) I've never been one to laud my own accolades. It just seems kinda arrogant, doesn't it? I know it is expected, and I will, but that sort of thing is usually done better by Joe Hand or even Mordrid. My job is usually to fuss at them with mock severity and say that they are exaggerating.

After meeting a few, he heads back to the bar, as best he can, and takes a long swig from his ale. Muttering to himself, he smiles at his need to escape for a minute before heading out to meet the rest of the IA.

He turns towards Sesha and smiles warmly making his way towards her.

-----

Sorry Rob, you posted while I was and I didn't see ya.

Dalinor Tor [Cayzle] 
Thursday July 30th, 2015 8:09:49 AM

Following a half step behind Valdor is a short elf with black hair, dressed impeccably in fine brown leathers and silks. Her cloak is covered in eyes, which sometimes blink or look here or there. She carries a plain staff that radiates power. She has the same ring that Valdor wears.

When Tink offers her greeting, this elf returns the bow and replies smoothly. "Dalinor Tor of the Shining Dragons, at your acquaintance, as well." As she says this, a brief look passes over her green eyes, as if she looking inward instead of outward. "Ah, yes, Katinka Hushfoot, Justicar of Pantheon. We always need justicars in the Dragon Consortium."

She exchanges a few words with Tink, then sees the witch. Dalinor bows to Tink, then approaches Sesha. Another inward look, and then she greets her. "Sesha Cha'Kwaina, of the Ga'alin Barbarians and Blood-Kin to the Twilight Elves of It'lal. We have heard much of your doings. How does a witch, bound to a dead god, manage to adventure in the company of those devoted to Gargul? It betokens a committment to diversity and a tolerance for other views that we find commendable in the Dragon Consortium."

She listens carefully to any answer Sesha might give.

A little later, Dalinor continues to mingle, and meets the one who might be most opposed to Sesha's work. "Bosk DeOx, a paradox of contradictions. Not merely clad in steelgrass, rare enough, but a friend to the manfri as well. Interesting. A true child of the South, yet devoted to Northern gods. An avenger in the company of a justicar. One sworn to divine revenge, yet, by reports, being wedded to vengeance does not mean you ignore just causes or those in need." She pauses in this recital, then asks, "Is there room among the forces driving and pulling at you, Bosk DeOx, for commitment to the Dragon Consortium?"

She looks at Garret, and hopes she has time to engage him before Valdor signals her to start the meeting formally.

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/11 
Thursday July 30th, 2015 9:04:11 AM
"Holy handbasket, I'm talking to Valdor himself," is all the magepriest can think at first. Luckily, his tongue catches up.

"Honor's mine. Really. Pleased as punch to be here." He takes a moment to think about the question, wanting to be sure & get the first impression right. His eyes sparkle as he ponders why he adventures, and try as he might, he can't help but gush a bit, his youth betraying him. "I guess I always wanted to be an adventurer. Even before I got off my tush and started adventuring, it's all I thought about. Riding dragons, rescuing maidens, vanquishing evil," Restlin looks around, gets in closer to Valdor, and in a hushed tone continues, "I've done all those things and more." The magepriests eyes widen as he recalls his adventures. "I feel like the luckiest guy in the Wold. Twenty years old, and I've already lived a lifetime of adventure. I'm carrying a gift of my god on my hip" he says while motioning to Shiny. "I've helped the Iron Adventurers make the Wold a better place for decent folks and locked away so, so many evil artifacts out of the reach of those who would do harm with them."

Restlin takes a breath and calms himself down a bit. "And to answer your last question, have my reasons for adventuring changed? Not really. Matured, maybe. Yea, they've matured. I'm not out to prove myself as much as I was at first. I don't have a long term plan here, other than do good while I'm able and have a lot of laughs with my friends while doing it. Kinda goes with the gig," he holds up his holy symbol to Wardd as he says this. "The fact that I get to do with all with such a fine group of friends is really the icing on the cake, though I wish folks would stick around more often. We've lost some good people. Oh, there's a wemic named Zeoll who got stolen by the Chaos Bell several months back. He is missed. I don't suppose you've seen him in your recent travels? Great guy, that Zeoll, but if you ever catch him casting a calm emotions spell, you'd do well to back up if you're not looking for trouble. And this dude named Trellus didn't stick around like I was hoping he would. He had this really great slang that I didn't have enough time to really pick up on. OH, and Kyan. That guy let us think he was dead, came back, and left again. Dude still owes me like a jillion chit...err, coins. We don't have chits anymore." Some of the light leaves his eyes. "Yea, losing people is the hard part."

"Anyway, that's me. Shiny says hello, by the way. He's honored to meet you as well. OH!" Restlin reaches into his pocket and pulls out an official Woldco Dragon Adventurer Collectible Trading Card featuring Valdor the Dragonstone, and a pen. "Won this in a fishing contest at the Giggling Ghost Yuletide party two years back. I'd be honored if you could sign it." The young magepriest grins stupidly as he waits for a reply.

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:33/28/27 HP:126/124 Ki:14/14 CMD: 34] 
Thursday July 30th, 2015 9:09:44 AM
When Sesha offers the nice tunic to Garret he says, "So, this is a tunic, eh? Never saw much need for one before. But I suppose this is some special meeting thing, so I'll put it on if you want. You aren't going to make me wear shoes, are you?"

When they arrive at the manor, Garret shifts uncomfortably in his new tunic, then peeks around and past TInk mumbling, "I don't see any food here. Are they going to starve us?" As Valdor walks around introducing himself, Garret sneaks over to the bar and looks to see if there is any food stashed behind the bar.

RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Thursday July 30th, 2015 9:44:36 AM
Tink feels slightly more comfortable that Dalinor didn't make a big deal of her tongue-slip. "It is SUCH an honor to meet you." The normally unflappable halfling is practically gushing over Dalinor "I've read so much about you, that it is just unbelievable to see you in person. There .. there are no words"

"Leave it at that Tink. Don't embarass yourself further" She nods politely as Dalinor moves to speak to Sesha. Would it be considered ill form to perhaps ask for an autograph later?

Tink - grinning like an idiot - moves to find Garret. "This is just so thrilling!" she calms down a moment to speak quietly with Garret "Did you notice that Valdor mentioned the 'Iron Dragons'? Do you think he meant us?"

Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Thursday July 30th, 2015 10:56:21 AM

Sesha isn't as worried as some of the others about making an impression, but is definitely worried that her reservations about the Dragon Consortium might bleed through. She makes a note to keep them in check.

Then it turns out, it might not be necessary.

Dalinor immediately upends any cautions Sesha might have had, when she makes reference to the "Twilight Elves and her Blood-Kin." Sesha considers her words carefully for only a moment, pondering just how delicately Dalinor had chosen her own. It was possible the other elf possessed an insight into Sesha that would see past delicate choice of terms.

"It's because of the insights of Little Spirit, Serenbeth, that I can adventure with anyone, of any religion, and any race, m'lady. When I first left the Ga'alin, I served my tribe. Then, later, through It'al, I served my blood-kin and another, more destructive power. Later, I was dispatched to Bryn Baraz to set up trade. On my way, I felt the teasing laughter of another entity unraveling the hard knot of intolerance I had become. Out of curiosity, I relented, and struck a new bargain with what I only knew as Little Spirit. After the Chaos Bell sent me from Bryn Baraz, Serenbeth coaxed me towards serving myself."

She considers how that sounded, so explains further.

"It is a strange independence, not being tied to tribe or people. I don't have to serve others by bond, and that frees me to make the choice to serve from compassion, rather than duty. I still hold my cultural upbringings, from both the Ga'alin and the nobles of It'al, I just temper the rage of one and the servitude of the other with the search for contentment that Serenbeth always asked her clerics to teach."

She checks on Garret and Beri, then smiles and finishes, glad that old racial prejudices weren't present here. Long ago, the barbarian in her would have sough immediate enmity with another who had ties to those who caused her blood-kin so much grief, even if it were centuries ago.

"The day may come when I have to remind Bosk that I am not a Cleric of Serenbeth, though I strive to live by her tenets. I am a witch, trained in wolds-blood and I will use it as I have been taught. It's by the wolds-blood and Serenbeth that I am powerful enough to effect change on the Wold, and I won't suppress that for anothers feelings. Until then, I can only hope to build enough friendship between us that he forgives whatever offense I make."

She notes Valdor approaching.

"I think I shall soon be swept away from you Dalinor. Your companion is coming this way."

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells  d20+19=35 ;
Thursday July 30th, 2015 5:48:18 PM
Bosk smiles as Dalinor speaks, seeing that his reputation precedes him and that it is both somewhat enigmatic and positive. Pride has always been a weakness for the blond taur, but his training as an Avenger has taught him to control the impulses it brings about in him. Those who have been chosen of God put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. The gods gave us rules for our benefit, but they recognize some take advantage of these rules turning pity for the guilty into treason to the innocent. The Wold would fall into chaos if everyone hardened their hearts and gave themselves over to their vengeance. Justicars and Avengers are tasked to step in that good may prevail and evil never feel peace. I was a benefactor of such an agent when the gods of the Taurs fell short. I have since followed the path of the Grim Avenger, helping those as I was helped and following the gods who helped me.

Overhearing Sesha's comments (perception 35) he adds, Gargul had a hand in bringing us together, so I must believe he is at least tolerating her ways, for now, so I do as well...though I do hope someday she will see the innate sacredness of Wolds Blood. Although different, we are all forces for good and try to help those in need. It would seem the gods and the fates have conspired to bring us together for some greater purpose, and it is in our diversity that we find strength.

As you have said, there are a multitude forces driving and pulling me, but the trick is making sure that they all synchronize and move in the same formation. The Dragons are a FORCE of good in the Wold, and that is the direction ALL of my motivations pull me. It is both a commitment and an honor I would gladly undertake and risk my life for.

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Thursday July 30th, 2015 6:22:14 PM
Zane returns Valdor's greeting and when asked for some of his background, he decides honesty is for the best, most likely.
"To the best of my searching for my parentage,I have discovered that I was born either shortly before or just after my mother, who was the Captain of the Taurish warship Stormfront set sail. From what I've been able to discover it was sailing to eliminate a pirate haven in the southern seas. They had been raiding ships and my mother's ship and crew were given the honor or taking care of the problem.
I don't know if they ever did make it to the Pirate's Haven or not, but sometime around then, the ship was hit by the mother of all storms.
I was discovered washed on the shore a few days east of here by a sect of monks out working not far from their temple. I never have figured out why they call it a temple, they don't actively worship any god I've heard of there.
Well anyways, I learned to fight there, it was also mostly to teach me to refocus my anger. When I was younger I was truly mad at the Wold. I was a lone Taur, in a foreign land, you have no idea what sort of anger I housed back then.
The Magic, well, you never really train to be a sorcerer, it's just sort of comes naturally. I'll never become a major magical force, but I have learned to focus a lot of that magic into my own style of fighting.
I only recently rejoined the IA on their adventures. I spent a few years shipping around the Wold following and finding yet more rumors of my parents. I've come to believe that if I could survive as a baby, fully grown Taurs could survive too."
Having realized how much time he'd already taken up with him, "Please accept my apologies Valdor for taking up so much of your time."

At Alistair Manor - co-DM SteveK 
Thursday July 30th, 2015 8:48:23 PM
introductions are the order of the day, and the Iron Adventurers begin to get to know two of the most focus people in the entire Wold. Each hero has his or her own deep personality and motivations, but there seems to also have a spark in common as well.

Garrett's spark is hungry, and he pokes around hoping to scrounge a snack to keep him over to dinner. From seemingly out of nowhere, Gaston appears with two other smartly dressed staff. Without a word, a platter of crackers and cheeses, another of vegetables with whipped toppings, and a third with skewers of colorful fruits. "Take one, take a hundred, good sir, the staff of Alistair's Manor only want to satisfy your every whim."

Valdor [Jerry] 
Thursday July 30th, 2015 10:07:50 PM
Valdor joins Dalinor and Sesha. Hearing her remark about him 'sweeping her away,' Valdor laughs. "I see you two have met and are becoming fast friends. I wouldn't dare. He bows. I am Valdor. I am so glad to meet you. We can talk later. As he leaves, he turns.

"Please excuse me for listing as I approached. I am trying to learn about each of you and what drives you as a person." He pauses. "It wasn't easy for us at times. When Joe Hand killed his own twin boys, I hated...

"Sorry I don't want to bore you good folk. This evening is about you: not hashing through my old stories. I am honored--to meet you Sesha." He bows again and moves on.

Valdor turns to Katinka and laughs out loud. "My mistake. I should have said Iron Adventurers. However, I don't think it is a secret as to why we wanted to meet you. I am honored to meet you. We will discuss business after we feast." He looks at Katinka for a few seconds. "You do not have the personality one would expect from a Justicar. I'm guessing that a different side comes out when you are on a mission for Pantheon? I want you to meet Mordrid at some point. When we were in our heyday, Pantheon was not a god or alive. He played a similar role in our group, however. He was a bounty hunter. We did have a role in raising Pan from the dead, however. We fought a battle on Pan's dead body in an alternate plane. The magic expended gave him just enough to claw his way back by combining his personalities with the other Gods of Yore. Yes, its a long story. Ask me later and I'll give you the boring details. It is very good to meet you maam."

Valdor, seeing Garret at the bar seizes the opportunity to go meet him. "Master Garret, I am Valdor. I am honored to meet you." He takes a drink from his ale finishing it and motions for another. "I get hungry ALL the time. Note that we'll adjourn to the banquet hall for the feast here in a bit. Have you had a chance to ever return to the monastery you grew up in? Yes, I know about your upbringing, but I haven't heard what made you decide to become an adventurer and what has kept you wanting to adventure over the years. Would you tell me? I really want to get to know each of you vice versa. Do you have anything you'd like to know about me?

"Now who have I not met yet? Ahh, Bosk the Giant." He maneuvers through the group listening closely until he reaches the minotaur. "Bosk DeOx, I am Valdor. I am honored to meet you." ::Valdor bows:: "I'm seeing that the Iron Adventurers seem to come in twos." He shrugs knowing how lame that sounds. "Two minotaurs, two halflings, two followers of Jancassis." He sobers. "There does seem to be many who's parents and family have passed on to the Lands of Rest. I don't want to bring up a bitter subject, but I'm wondering if that was a factor in the forming of the Iron Adventurers? Or was it something that helped keep you together?

Having made the rounds and met everyone, he takes a few moments to think about what he has learned.

-----

He makes these comments as well:

Turning a bit pink, Valdor signs Restlin's card. "If things work out, you'll be doing this soon, my new friend." Nodding, Valdor says, "Yes, my heart is heavy at times with those I've lost as well. And with those who we were unable to save, both literally and from themselves."

Valdor listens carefully to Zane's story. "No, please. I'm the one who needs to keep his stories short. As I get older they tend to get longer and... "This is not manipulation, but if you join us, you will have more avenues to chase down what happened to your parents." He smiles, a decision made. "And if you do not join us, I'll help you...if that is something you want to do, Zane."


Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Thursday July 30th, 2015 10:36:24 PM
Beri raises his glass to their kind host.
Cheers and well met. I actually do have my own room in the tower. Had I been a druid back then I might have had a grove outside the city, but my background was originally as a rogue. I enjoyed my work back then, but the powers above have a tendency to change the Wold, and I found the roll I loved no longer an option. I decided at that time to look for another calling, and took the more natural life of a druid.

Hmm, a story of my own. As a rogue I was once possessed by the spirit of a high level wizard. You see, as a rogue I had developed a keen eye, and saw an almost invisible piece of silver jewelry a prisoner was about to grasp. I figured out that it was a trap, but in the split second we had I misjudged what the trap was... I assumed it was a weapon or a teleport. As it turns out, it transferred the spirit of this monstrous wizard to my body. The great irony in this was that as a rogue I was the perfect mismatch for the wizard. He was completely unable to cast spells in my body, and lacked any real way to take advantage of my dexterity. Even so, with my agility he was almost able to escape by tumbling past half the group. He may have succeeded too, except for someone had the quick thinking to simply close the door to put an end to his mad dash out of the room.

What about you? Tell me of one of your great stories. And how does one become a knight-at-large?

RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Friday July 31st, 2015 2:59:12 AM
"Not have the personality one would expect from a Justicar? Curious..."

"Master Dragonstone, the honor is indeed mine. I must admit that in my travels - our travels - I meet very few Justicars. And those I do meet have quite different personalities. I think perhaps the only similarity is perhaps the drive to see justice afforded for all. Though you do make me wonder. What sort of personality were you expecting of me?" she toys with Valdor, though the muscles in her jaw tighten when he draws a parallel between her and a bounty hunter "You'll forgive me. There is quite a difference between them and Justicars. What Bounty Hunters do for gold and greed, Justicars do out of a sworn duty for justice. I mean no offence, of course. I'm sure to travel with the likes of you and Lady Dalinor, this Mordrid person must have been of good standing"

Tink hopes that she has been tactful enough. To be compared to a gold-hungry bounty hunter would be an insult to any Justicar, and while she knows it was not intended as such, she does feel that she has made her position clear. She quickly changes the subject.

"As for what keeps us together, why, the simple answer is friendship. It is a rare thing in the Wold to find one, let alone a group of people you would gladly call friend. People you would risk your own life to save. People who would risk their lives to save you. We may have each travelled our own paths before, yet they all led to the same place. And now we not only journey together, but live and thrive together. Alone we can each do alright, yet together we seem to be able to complement each other in fascinating ways. The family members we may have lost in the past cannot be replaced, yet I have come to think of each person here as members of my own family. There is nothing I would not do for any of them" Tink raises a glass and nods to each member of the party in turn.

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:33/28/27 HP:126/124 Ki:14/14 CMD: 34]  d20+15=27 ;
Friday July 31st, 2015 8:04:58 AM
As Katinka heads over to the bar to talk with Garret, he looks up at her (she is a foot taller than him) as she gushes about Valdor. He nods and asks her, "Have you seen any food around? There seems to be quite a lack of food in this place." He smiles and nods when Valdor mentions "Iron Adventurers" to Tink, but figures it is not polite to just ask the hosts for food.

He notices Sesha checking on him and he quickly puts his hands behind his back and gives her a smile and an exaggerated wink to let her know that he's not doing anything he's not supposed to do. About that time the three stewards appear with the plates of food. He gestures at the bar, hoping they will set the plates of food down there so he doesn't have to follow them around the room. He smiles when they set them down and he quickly scampers up a bar stool so he can be seated right next to the food. He stuffs a couple crackers in his mouth as Valdor starts talking to him.

Valdor says, "I get hungry ALL the time. Note that we'll adjourn to the banquet hall for the feast here in a bit." Garret smiles and says through a mouthful of crackers, "Oh, there's a feast? Was I supposed to wait? I'm sure I will leave some room for more food, I haven't eaten since lunch you know."

Valdor continues, "Have you had a chance to ever return to the monastery you grew up in?" Garret stops chewing for a moment as Valor keeps speaking, "Yes, I know about your upbringing, but I haven't heard what made you decide to become an adventurer and what has kept you wanting to adventure over the years. Would you tell me? I really want to get to know each of you vice versa. Do you have anything you'd like to know about me?"

Garret eyes Valdor carefully and wonders if the fellow really does want to know more about Garret, or if he is just trying to be polite (Sense Motive: 27). Garret swallows and grabs a drink before responding, "Yes, the monastery. Even while I was there, I knew it was not where I was going to always be. There were those who remained there always, but I knew from the start that I was going to be a wanderer. I do often consider stopping, but my time has not yet come. I know that I am needed elsewhere in the Wold and should I survive long enough, I may one day stop."

He looks around the room and then says in a quieter voice, "Hey, you seem to know a lot about a lot of people. You wouldn't be able to check in on a certain beautiful Halfling lass that lives in Bryn Baraz, would you? I mean, I do not even know where that is from here, coming through a portal and all, but I would not mind knowing if she we doing okay, you know?"


Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Friday July 31st, 2015 12:27:57 PM
Bosk shakes his head when the topic of dead parents and a possible connection tot he Iron Adventurer's comes up. As I said before, it was fate that brought us all together. A large fight broke out in Mudtown and several strangers stepped in to keep the peace and protect the innocent. After that we decided to all grab a beer together when a merchant who saw what happened hired us, thereby binding the group together. Not long after that an Ilithid began an occult and trying to control people. Beri was attacked by it, but the creature was scared off when we approached. He joined our group and shortly afterwards we officially formed the Iron Adventurers. Since then our group has changed many times, but Beri and I have been part since its formation.

We met Resltin sometime later, after moving from Mudtown into Hook City proper. Can you believe we met him at a girls finishing school of all places?! With his help we saved Hook City from the zombie invasion. Garret and Sesha were brought to us through the Chaos Bell and the intervention of several gods and powers of the Wold. This may be part of why we get along so well. Although we have some fundamental differences, if the gods felt the need to put us together despite our differences, then who are we to let them split us apart? Then there is Zane. He joined us after we saved the city from Zombies and parted ways for a little while after our second battle with a dragon. We only just recently found him again in the destroyed Sargrass while hunting for the Teucri.

I think what holds us all together is that we know we can trust one another and that we all strive to make the Wold a better place and to be a force for what is right and just.


Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Friday July 31st, 2015 5:02:00 PM
Zane garners a bunch of the fruit skewers to keep his stomach from grumbling overly much. He is a minotaur after all, you always hear of halflings and dwarves always eating so much, and centaurs drinking their weight in wine, he's just glad no one really recognizes that most minotaurs are constantly stuffing some form of food into their mouths.
When Valdor mentions the records and such available, "That would be nice. I know I have parents, I really would like to know what actually happened to both of them. And I'd be honored if you wished to help on my personal quest. I'm sure that once I solve my personal mystery, yet another quest will present itself that needs to be solved."
Zane lets the others do most of the conversing, he'd rather listen that add to that conversation....

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/11 
Friday July 31st, 2015 5:29:16 PM
Restlin's enjoying this conversation and all, but boy is he ready to find out what this shindig is all about. He controls himself, though. He eats, drinks, mingles...he can do that kind of thing.

Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Friday July 31st, 2015 7:54:27 PM

Sesha wonders for a moment, if she offended Valdor. She thinks though, that he was simply trying to be polite. Then he says something that catches her interest, in chat with Tink. She quickly excuses herself from Dalinor and practically chases Valdor down.

"Sorry Tink."

Sesha gives the Halfling an apologetic glance.

"Valdor, I can't think of any other way to say this than I do want the incredibly boring details of how exactly you brought a dead god back to life. Given my circumstances with Serenbeth, I would be very interested in every last tidbit."

Dinner is Served - co-DM SteveK 
Friday July 31st, 2015 9:09:50 PM
Gaston, the liveried maitre d, opens a pair of double-doors that leads to a large dining area. Elegant and tasteful, the table is a circle without head or foot, and laid out with the finest delftware, silver, and fine linen napkins. A spiral stair in the middle of the table descends to the kitchens. A soon as the Consortium and Iron Adventurers are seated, the courses begin to arrive; trays of spicy pickled vegetables and soft cheese; a hearty shellfish bisque, delicate green salad, a caramelized haunch of beef expertly sliced as the heroes watch and served with tureens of mashed roots and a pungent Stingroot paste that brings tears to the eyes, a refreshing iced sherbet, and finally trays of bite-sized tarts of various shapes and flavors. More servants on the outside of the table keep fresh water, light wines, sweet fruit juices, and hearty ales flowing so no cup is ever empty.


Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Friday July 31st, 2015 9:11:41 PM
Beri joins up with Bosk after they have both talked to Valdor.
You tend to know more about the various organizations around the Wold, what do you think of the Dragon Consortium? Think we could be invited to join? That would be amazing wouldn't it! I wonder if there have been many minoaurs in the consortium.

Dalinor Tor [Cayzle] 
Friday July 31st, 2015 9:27:08 PM

Appearing at Beri's shoulder, Dalinor Tor smiles and says, "Beriothian Galanodel, I am heartened indeed to hear that you think well of the Dragon Consortium. You are aware that the Dragon Heroes of the Wold are committed to fighting evil in all its forms, as a force for good." The short elf in the cloak of eyes looks at Beri, and he might feel that every eye on her garb is looking at him too. Dalinor asks, "And yet, some odd reports we have had suggest that you seek to tread the line between good and evil? Is that true? Do you think that there is a middle ground?"

After hearing his reply, she moves gracefully over to Garret. "Garret Goodbarrel," she declares, "now please enter and discover that the hospitality of this place will indeed answer your appetite." She motions to the dining room. "Please lead the way. And by the way, are you the leader of your group? If not you, then who? Do you have a leader?"

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Saturday August 1st, 2015 10:58:16 AM
ooc: Does anyone remember the answer to this? I could not find it in the archives. I want to say that when we originally registered as a Protection Group Bosk was listed as the leader (and the Tower was in Valla's name) because it was cheaper than forming one run by a committee and we were short on cash. However I think we may have switched to the more expensive committee that has no leader (committee vote) and the tower was put the organization name rather then Valla's after one of the DM switches or APG revamp/rollback to make things easier on the DM. (To our current DMs, there was a point where Hook City bureaucracy and paperwork was overwhelming.)

co-DM Steve: And Hook City bureaucracy is still overwhelming. :-) The difference now is that the Iron Adventurers are high enough level that the HCG has assigned a liasion (Auslander) to the group who takes care of all those nit=pick regulations. Moving on up to the East Side, to that deluxe apartment in the skyyyyy...

Oh, as to David's question, Bosk is listed as the leader, and the Tower is in the collective name of the Iron Adventurers (according to Hook City). All of which bears no resemblance to the question of the Dragon Consortium...

Valdor [Jerry] 
Saturday August 1st, 2015 2:32:31 PM
Valdor grins as dinner is announced. To no one in particular, he says, "I had a large snack a couple of hours ago so I wouldn't come off as a pig tonight, but this looks good!"

During dinner he continues conversations. "Beri, it is good to know more about you. I too have some rogue training, but it is not substantial. Possessed by a mage? That's amazing. Normal folk just don't understand the risks we take to keep their lives...normal." When Beri asks for a story from Valdor, he replies, "Somehow, I don't think I'll get out of that. I usually don't. Yes, very well, but one. This night is not about me." He smiles warmly at Beri.

Replying to Kakinka Valdor says, "Oh, I'm so sorry. That did not come out as I intended. I'm better at these occasions than I used to be, but obviously not polished enough. Back in those days, Pantheon was...was not. The only options for the one who would bring in the guilty that the city guard could not reach was to hire an adventuring group or to hire a bounty hunter. Mordrid was a bounty hunter before we met and became adventurers. He did his...."hunting" in an honorable fashion working out of the Floating City. I do remember he had a rival named Korig the Stalker who approached things from a dishonorable fashion. If Mordrid had grown up in today's Wold, he likely would have been a Justicar. He does tend to follow Pantheon today, as much as he follows any individual god. That was what I intended to say, but Mordrid and Onrad both told me before I left that they would skin me if I told too many stories. They threatened to make me take bard lessons for a week if I did." Valdor shudders.

-----

Garret studies Valdor for a bit and realizes that he really does want to get to know the group and what makes each of them tick. He seems to carry a heavy load of responsibility that he imposes upon himself. It reminds one of the old phrase, 'carrying the weight of the Wold on his shoulders,' which is said sometimes of Domi, the god Valdor patrons.

-----

"You found Restlin at a girls finishing school, Bosk? Oh, I shouldn't laugh." He looks around quickly to be sure that Restlin wasn't offended. "Friendship and a sense of being family is one of the things that keeps most adventuring groups together over the years. It is perhaps the most important quality I look for. And yes, it is the inner qualities that define one, not what they can do physically or what martial talents they have. He listens carefully. "A zombie invasion? That's...incredible!"

-----

"Zane, I'd be honored. All 'Dragon' groups have a permanent teleportation circle installed in their castle. So you will be able to travel the Wold at will and teleport home again. You may return home and investigate starting in the Taur Islands. And if my influence can help, I would be honored to help you. We can go talk to Maab in the Lands of Rest as well if she will see us. She loves solving mysteries as well. One of the initial concerns when we recruit a group to join the Consortium is to help them conclude anything that would keep them from worrying too much about problems at home. For instance, the Emerald Talons, who became the Emerald Dragons, didn't really feel that they could move forward as a 'dragon group' until Parnoth had been slain and all the monsters that would be released upon the Emerald Kingdom had been dealt with. So we helped set things in motion so that they could have that final confrontation with Parnoth and leave home without undue worry."

-----

"Very well, Sesha. I guess that will be the official story for the night. But not until the end of the evening, please. It involves places and situations I'm not at liberty to tell just anyone. And if Mordrid or Onrad ever ask, it is the ONLY story you were EVER able to drag out of me this night.

"Hmm...I have a question for you, milady. Have you ever met the Crones? I understand they have a strong witch following here in the south and that they are originally from the Gateway Downs. I've never met them nor anyone who patrons them and I was just curious."

Valdor eats lightly, but wishes he could feast as his stomach longs for him to. "Gaston, please prepare me a late night followup to this grand..."

"Already done sir."

"And I think everyone is an anxious as I to begin the business of the evening so, bring the dessert as soon as..."

"Yes sir."

Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Sunday August 2nd, 2015 12:36:01 AM

Sesha nods, then sits as close to Valdor as is polite, dragging Restlin with her. Her knew magic. She just knew how to use it. She was learning more as she spent time around him, but he still held the concepts much better than she.

"No, I've not met The Crones. I can't say I've heard of them either. I'm from the North, It'lal. I'm only here because of a very chance occurrence with a bell full of chance occurrences."

RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Sunday August 2nd, 2015 12:41:22 AM
Whenever one of the servants places a tray of food before her or fills her glass, Tink makes eye contact with them, smiles and says thank-you. A lesson from her mother sticks in her mind: "A person who is nice to you but not the waiter is not a nice person".

Tink blushes at Valdor's response. She did not mean to embarrass or upset him. These social situations can be harder to work through than a minotaur maze! "Perhaps a simple toast to celebrate the good hearted people of the Wold, wherever they live and whoever guides them?" That seems like a way to pay testament to all.

She grins and silently watches Bosk squirm with the question as to "who is the leader?". Having not been with the Iron Adventurers as long as some, she has never seen anyone act as leader. She had thought the group a collective, each leading at different times depending on their strengths. Bosk with the undead in the Gaeli tomb, Sesha with the constructed chit machine, Garrett with ... food? "This will be interesting..."

"It really is an honor for us to dine with you" she interjects with Dalinor "I hope we didn't keep you waiting too long. We were unaware our trip to another realm would keep us so long. If I might pry, is there some greater reason for you being here? I've heard rumour that members of the Consortium are being seen much more frequently throughout the Wold now-days. The local gossip is that two recently spent some time in Bonetown. Are the Consortium working on some grand plan?" Tink's eyes glisten a little as she speaks. Imagine - something so big that the whole Dragon Consortium were at work! Her mind races at the possibilities, very excited and just a tiny bit scared.

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/11 
Sunday August 2nd, 2015 8:03:01 AM
Restlin leans in close and whispers in Sehsa's ear, not wanting to publicly embarrass her. "You met the crones, love, though you probably didn't know who they were. Remember those women who were there when the Chaos Bell brought you, Garret, and Anrete from the north? Those were the crones. You showed up after the conversation and they didn't stick around much, but they were there & had a big part in you being here."

The wizard makes a mental note to give her the basics on them later, seeing how their magic mirrored hers much more that his own abilities did.

Time to Talk - co-DM SteveK 
Sunday August 2nd, 2015 9:47:19 AM
Gaston anticipates Valdor's every request and motions for his serving team to finish up.

Finally, the trays of pastries are all out with a cup and extra flaggon of each heroes favorite beverage at their elbow. The servers withdraw, closing the doors to the kitchen stairs and the double doors to leave the Dragon Consortium and Iron Adventurers alone.

Valdor nods to Dalinor and the mage casts a 'Mage's Private Sanctum' spell, sealing the area from
any magical or mundane eavesdropping. And then the real meeting can begin.

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Sunday August 2nd, 2015 8:16:58 PM
Zane contemplates the information about Dragon Groups being able to travel the Wold at will. Then it also dawns on him that Groups sponsored to the Consortium deal with Major problems and not just local troubles.

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:33/28/27 HP:126/124 Ki:14/14 CMD: 34] 
Monday August 3rd, 2015 8:14:07 AM
Garret continues to eat from the crackers tray as the conversation continues. When Sesha rushes over to talk with Valdor, Garret puts down a piece of cheese and starts, "I was just..." then he realizes Sesha wasn't rushing over to get him in trouble. He quietly steps back as Sesha speaks with Valdor.

He looks around and as he is trying to decide what to do next, Gaston opens up the doors to the dining hall and Dalinor invites her to lead the way into the room. She also asks him about their leader and Garret mumbles a reply that can't really be heard because he is quickly leading the way into the dining room. Spotting the large, round table, Garret starts at the near end and grabs a couple items of food and quickly makes his way around the table towards the far side, making sure he samples a little of everything before picking out a seat. Even when he sits, a few tarts and items find their way into his belt pouch while he stuff his face.

Garret occasionally leans over to watch the servants disappear into the stairway in the center of the table. He says, "That is a pretty neat idea there."

As the servers withdraw, Garret makes sure his plate is piled high with food to ensure he doesn't run out once the meeting has started. He sits quietly, but still looking around a bit, when the meeting starts.


Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Monday August 3rd, 2015 2:05:09 PM

Satisfied, and a little embarrassed, Sesha shelves the rest of her questions. The private sanctum spell is impressive.

"Sometimes I get jealous of you mages. You can cast so many spells that do so many things. Witches do what they do well, and struggle with things that don't come first nature, but there are some magical concepts that are just impossible for us."

She sits back and waits for the important things to start.

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/11 
Monday August 3rd, 2015 3:40:04 PM
Restlin shrugs, "sure, we can do a whole bunch of stuff, but every. single. adventure we've ever been on has involved at least one instance of me going 'boy, I sure wish I had prepared a whatever spell.' It gets old."

The wizard eats & drinks. Not as much as Garret, but who does?

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Monday August 3rd, 2015 6:35:51 PM
Bosk remains silent as the group as the Mage's Private Sanctum' spell is cast. Is this standard procedure for inviting a group to join the consortium, or is there some other purpose behind this dinner? The cleric thinks to himself as he waits for answers.

Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Monday August 3rd, 2015 7:20:18 PM
Beri turns his head to Dalinor quizzically, taken by surprise by his statement.

As far as I know the only people who would think that I wish to toe the line between good and evil are the bureaucrats in Hook City who believe that the measure of good vs evil is whether the proper paperwork was filled out before hand. I suppose as a former rogue I also have a little bit of a reputation for being sneaky, though I was still good even back then and always tried to obey the law.

The legal bureaucracy on the other hand is something I could do with out. Don't get me wrong, I respect the laws as much as the next guy, but when someone is kidnapping children or makes a threat against someone I hold dear then I'm not about to let a piece of paper stop me from doing what is right. Forgive me if I seem jaded, but Hook City has more paperwork that just about anywhere in the Wold and it's caused the death of more innocent people in the time I've been here than I'd like to recall... I'm sure that in such a magical society there were needs for additional laws, but over the years the laws themselves became more important than what they were put in place to protect.

ooc: Cayzle, sorry about the confusion. I never noticed that when I updated my character sheet to a druid I mis-copied my alignment... it was supposed to be neutral good since as a druid I want to do what is right and good for the Wold and those around me, but I don't quite care as much about the bureaucracy of the urbanized world when it makes it impossible to do what is clearly the right thing. It's been corrected, and I'll try to have the rest of my sheet updated by the end of the week.

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Monday August 3rd, 2015 9:42:43 PM
Zane nurses his large stein of beer, he's ready to listen to what is going to be said here. He expects the spell was cast to ensure privacy, so it will probably be important.....

RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Monday August 3rd, 2015 10:07:39 PM
Tink sits. And waits. Quietly. Valdor or Dalinor are about to say something important. She can feel it in every fibre of her being and doesn't want to put embarrass herself any further by speaking before they do.

Valdor [Jerry] 
Monday August 3rd, 2015 11:32:14 PM
Valdor continues his conversations until he gets the nod from Dalinor. He takes a final drink of water this time and turns to the group, remaining seated.

"We have sealed the room. The Consortium has powerful enemies. I wanted to be sure that there was no scrying or other means available to them to know what we discuss tonight. It will be public news, no doubt, no matter of the results of this meeting, but the longer it can be kept to those within this room the better.

It is interesting that Valdor slides into the role of the leader naturally and without anything untoward or contrived. You sense the change in his manner and the palpable seriousness of the moment.

"I sit rather than stand because I want to make the point that I consider us all equals here. The time of the Red, Gold, Storm and Emerald Dragons has past. Now is the time for the Shining Dragons and those who would ally with them. We want you to join the Dragon Consortium with all that means both good and difficult."

He pauses looking each in the eye, serious of demeanor.

"Dalinor and I will stay all night if need to be answer all your questions. After that, we will give you all the time you need to talk to each other and make your decision.

"I ask that you do not immediately come out with a yes or no answer until all questions and answers have been discussed until each of you are content that we have told you everything and are holding nothing back and you have done the same in return. Then, we will excuse ourselves to the other room until you are done discussing matters.

"So, where to begin? These talks never go the same way twice. I should mention that there is a time of trial so you can discover whether you wish to join us and we can confirm what we think we know about you already, that you are worthy. We will want you to go on two adventurers.

"The first will be aimed at your homeland of Hook City and the Southern Continent. There are issues at large that have not been solved here. It is unfair of us to ask you to represent the Wold as a whole without letting you take care of outstanding issues in your homeland as they occur.

"The second trial will be....elsewhere. I won't go into details concerning it yet, unless you insist.

"Hmm...perks. You will be considered nobility and knights at large, both here in Hook City but in every respectable government in the Wold. You will build a castle, perhaps around your tower here? Or perhaps move this tower and incorporate it into where you choose to build your castle? Or perhaps cede the tower to a younger adventuring group and build anew? That is totally up to you. The tower will contain everything you need to have court, protect loved ones, train up the next generation of adventurers, etc. Adding to it beyond that would be your choice.

"Within your castle a permanent Teleport Portal which operates like the Greater Teleport spell will be installed. Working like the high level spell, it can take you pretty much wherever you need to go within reason when wearing your ring. We will teach you other methods of travel as well and all accumulated knowledge of the Dragon Consortium will be at your disposal. You will therefore your Consortium Ring like the one we are wearing, talk to each other at will no matter the distance while on the same plane of existence. You may talk to anyone who has one of these rings at will, privately or in a group. These rings will also let you teleport singly back to your castle.

"That's the majority of the perks. However, while I know you like shiny things as much as I do, joining the Consortium is more of a responsibility than a funhouse of toys in the form of your castle. I've talked to each of you pointedly tonight, double-checking what I thought was true: none of you adventure primarily for the treasure or the accolades. You adventure to help people. To give the downtrodden hope. To make the Wold a safer place for children and their families.

"As you might expect, the joy of adventuring is a very rich joy. Both in the lives we get to lead and the inner joys of folks appreciating what we do. However, there have been times when all that is lacking and our inner will and the things we believe in were all that kept us going.

"I'm sure that you've experienced all these things as well. I guess a good way to put it to understand that joining the DC will increase all these aspects a good bit. More accolades....more worries. Situations that affect large numbers of people and the rich reward of succeeding when you can. Nothing changes, just increases five-fold.

"Ahh, I'm making speeches again. Please forgive me. Most of this you probably already knew, but it is good to have it stated. So, Bosk, Restlin, Beriothian, Zane, Sesha, Garrett, and Katinka, hit us with your questions, honorable Iron Adventurers!"

-----

[ooc: time was short tonight so please forgive any glaring errors on my part.--Jerry]


RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Tuesday August 4th, 2015 2:09:41 AM
Tink brings her hand to her chin in deep consideration. The joviality of the dinner has long past. The discussions are much more serious now.

"Have you ever regretted joining the Consortium?" she asks Valdor and Dalinor directly.

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Tuesday August 4th, 2015 2:49:09 AM
Zane considers his question very deeply and those who know him, know he is very concerned about whatever it is he is thinking about.
"What is the Consortium's position on mixed race members." with this he takes a towel and starts removing the black he put on his horns, revealing the bronze colored horns underneath. Or is it actual bronze not just colored.....
He knows it's important to be fully informed, but to also to fully inform about his heritage as well.
"I mentioned my Mother earlier and wondering about my parents, I do not believe that my father was fully `Taurish, or possibly even a `Taur at all. As I said, Magic is bone deep in me, just not coursing through my blood. It's another reason my teachers worked so hard to teach me to refocus my anger and rage."
Zane after speaking, hangs his head, waiting for the fateful answer to his question......

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Tuesday August 4th, 2015 8:09:46 AM
Garret listens to the announcement then leans over to Restlin and says, "Sounds fun. Um... Does this mean we get to ride on dragons?"

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/11 
Tuesday August 4th, 2015 8:32:44 AM
He whispers back to Garret, "I don't think that's guaranteed, but it's certainly possible. I rode a dragon once, and judging by the reactions I get when I tell people that, I'm guessing it's pretty rare."

Restlin decides to not act impulsively, since this is kind of a big deal. So, he tries to think of things he should be worried about. There would be a lot expected of him as a member of the Dragons. Nothing he couldn't handle, but still, he'd probably lose some anonymity. He also might have to go off and save some far away land while the locals the Iron Adventurers have supported are left to other protection groups. Restlin liked Hook City, even with all its bureaucracy and faults.

None of this makes it out of his mouth, since the answers are pretty self-evident. Plus, he wants to hear the answer to Tink's question. He nods & points his finger at her as she asks. "Yea, and has anyone ever failed at these tests you're wanting to throw our way?"

Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Tuesday August 4th, 2015 10:19:54 AM

Restlins question sets Sesha on edge.

She was deathly interested on how that one would be answered.

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Tuesday August 4th, 2015 1:48:01 PM
I ask that you do not immediately come out with a yes or no answer until all questions and answers have been discussed... Somehow this strikes the cleric as funny. This is the most prestigious group in the Wold offering his the thing he has wanted since he set out on his first adventure. What minotaur child did not pretend to be one of the great dragons during their pretend battles and mock kaylebs? In a society where might made right the Dragon Consortium was recognized as being among the mightiest. The idea of turning down such an offer is so far removed from his mind that he does not even picture the dishonor and humiliation that turning it down would result in. All he can think is that this is a dream come true.

The other thought that occurs to him is the sheer poetry that a follower of the God of the Shadowlands would become a Bright Dragon. The dual images of brightness and shadow appeals to him in a strange way. After all, he followed the god of life and death and brought peace through vengeance and was a dual citizen residing in both the Shadowlands and the physical plane. It seemed his lot in life to find harmony between opposing side of the same coin.

My father once told me "Fearless of all consequences, you must do the right. You will need the courage of a bull unhesitating to pursue a course of moral principle." I understand the need for secrecy and that the dragons have the best of reputations, but it would be foolish to undertake any task without asking...if you cannot tell us the exact nature of our trials, can you guarantee that they are honorable and that we will be asked to do no evil. Furthermore, once we are members, do we decide what tasks must be undertaken or are they appointed to us?

Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Tuesday August 4th, 2015 5:13:21 PM
Everyone starts asking question about moving forward, though the former rogue's mind is still reviewing some other questions of his.

You seem very well informed about each of us in the Iron Adventurers, you have clearly done your homework on us. Out of curiosity, have you been briefed by others on our past adventures? To have caught the eye of the Dragon Consortium I would assume you have learned details that have been kept from the general public. If so, did you hear of these from the source, or have rumors of our deeds made there way to the public during the months we've been away? I want to make sure there are no new security concerns we need to be aware of.

As for our first trial, while I have no doubt that it s for the greater good can you tell us whether we are aiding both Hook City and the Southern Continent, or is this a situation where what's best for Hook City is on one side, the needs of others in the South are on the other side, and us in the middle? I'm not sure that it wold affect our decision, but I feel it's important to know if we are being asked to take actions that could make our friends and neighbors feel we are turning our backs on them.

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Tuesday August 4th, 2015 9:30:23 PM
ooc: With the jump ahead I forgot about Grendel's Black Pearl. Can I assume we put it in the vault like we had planned?

For those who might not know:
The Iron Vault will become, in fact, an extra-dimensional space. Both the 20th lvl Cleric and 20th lvl Mage are required to create the Iron Vault.

Iron Vault Fate Item APPROVED by Rob for play on 2013MAY20 [Cauldron and Spear Module]

1. Basement: The door to the room is guarded by twin Symbols of Sleep and Stunning that are on the inside of the door lintel and will be keyed in on the Iron Adventurers (further, the IA are able to Key in new members and key out old). Coupled with the Symbols is an Permanent Alarm Spell that will go off if the Symbols are triggered. The alarm sounds in a location chosen by the Iron Adventurers. The Room is further covered by a Permanent Private Sanctum and Permanent Dimensional Lock (with a 10x10 hole APG Shaping Metamagic) where the Vault is located.

2. Entrance: The entrance is like the entrance to a Magnificent Mansion; invisible until a Command Word is spoken (Iron Adventurers Choose), then opens into a 10x10 hole into a void-like area filled with objects and sparkly lights floating in a vast black void. This is a demi-plane.

3. Vault: Any magical item thrown into the Vault spins slowly in the void and immediately creates 9 copies of itself. Each copy is alike in physical and magical aura characteristics, but does not possess any other power. The demi-plane is infinite and filled with flotsam and jetsam, so is nearly impossible to recover an item. On the off-chance one is found, there is only a 10% chance that it is the correct item!

The Iron Vault was placed into a new, unmapped room in the Basement, with the alarm going off in the Kitchen, and the password (that can be keyed in on any current IA hero) being "Shibboleth".
Information from posts on 7.21.13 and 07-.23.13


co DM SteveK. Yes, the Black Pearl is now in the Vault


Dalinor Tor [Cayzle] 
Tuesday August 4th, 2015 9:38:21 PM
Dalinor keeps track of the questions -- you can see her lodging them in her mind, and then she answers them precisely one by one.

"Have you ever regretted joining the Consortium?"

"My history is unusual," she answers. "I was lost in the dimension of nightmares, lost and wandering for a long time. There I lost my self, my history, my very essence ... all became as shadows to me. But I was redeemed by the fellow lost souls I found there. We found each other, and we emerged from the shadows renewed and redeemed. That is why we are the "Shining Dragons," because we reject the shadows that bound us in Koshe Marr. So I have no regrets, because I come from darkness, and my path ever since has been one of movement into the light."

She pauses, thoughtfully.

"But you, who have a history not lost in the dark, who have relationships and lives reaching back. Perhaps you will have regrets. But for me, no, not a one."

"What is the Consortium's position on mixed race members."

The elf looks startled at that. "Please, we are not barbarians. Nor do we accept the bias that some taurs have for their siblings. Nor does any Dragon Hero harbor any animus towards the surface drow; they have proved themselves many times over since they returned to the sun. But I would say the same for any creature, regardless of kith or kin. To judge any soul based on their parentage seems to me anathema to the ethics and fundamental core of what it means to be a Dragon Group."

"Does this mean we get to ride on dragons?"

The elf mage smiles, glad to break the tension with a light question. She answers it seriously, however, since it is her nature to answer all questions seriously.

"You will not gain dragons as mounts, if that is your query. In fact, there are deep and subtle bonds of respect that lie between the Dragon Consortium and the Dragon Nation, such of it that survived Marteus's Plague. I will let Valdor Dragonstone address the details. But I can certainly say that the Dragon Consortium has not earned its name by mastering dragons, but by emulating and respecting those who inspire awe and deserve respect."

She pauses, and does offer one caveat. "On the other hand, it is true that when a creature qualifies as a calamity to the Wold, that creature may be an evil dragon, and the Consortium has dealt with such in the past, and will again at need."

Then it is time for another serious question. "Yea, and has anyone ever failed at these tests you're wanting to throw our way?"

Dalinor sighs, a rare sign of emotion. "Yes, of course, some adventuring groups have been tested and failed. The test is real. The chance of failure is also real. You must treat your quest with all your puissance, resolve, and wit."

"If you cannot tell us the exact nature of our trials, can you guarantee that they are honorable and that we will be asked to do no evil?"

She answers simply. "Yes, we so guarantee. There may be hard decisions and trials that test you to the core, but we do not ask you to become less heroic; to do so would be self-defeating."

Furthermore, once we are members, do we decide what tasks must be undertaken or are they appointed to us?

"All Dragons are first among equals. We may alert each other to needs; we may pass along requests. We may gather and reach a consensus for action. But there is no General Dragon, no Chief who gives orders. We see needs and we answer them; it is our nature to answer them. That is what it means to be a Dragon."

"Out of curiosity, have you been briefed by others on our past adventures? To have caught the eye of the Dragon Consortium I would assume you have learned details that have been kept from the general public. If so, did you hear of these from the source, or have rumors of our deeds made there way to the public during the months we've been away? I want to make sure there are no new security concerns we need to be aware of."

Dalinor looks stern, and her tone becomes a bit scolding. "We would no more betray our sources than we would ask you to reveal your confidences or secrets. Suffice to say that we know what we know through means accurate and secure and moral. I will note that we follow in the footsteps of the divine and the powerful, and with resources that the Dragon Consortium can command, you should not be surprised at what we know."

"Can you tell us whether we are aiding both Hook City and the Southern Continent, or is this a situation where what's best for Hook City is on one side, the needs of others in the South are on the other side, and us in the middle? I'm not sure that it would affect our decision, but I feel it's important to know if we are being asked to take actions that could make our friends and neighbors feel we are turning our backs on them."

"We understand that heroes are attached to the places they have adventures, to the people they have served. But the Consortium serves the entire Wold. You must accept that you are the protectors of all; you are not merely the city guard of your home town."

"That said, again, I will say that we do not seek to make you betray those you have helped in the past. To say farewell is a price you may have to pay. To stab your loved ones in the back is not a price we would ask."

"In honestly, I wonder what you have heard or fear, that you ask such questions! But please let us reassure you."

"More specifics about your quest I leave to Valdor Dragonstone, unless he wishes me to speak from my lesser knowledge." She nods to the greatest of the Dragons.


Valdor [Jerry] 
Wednesday August 5th, 2015 12:39:39 AM
Question: "Have you ever regretted joining the Consortium?"

Valdor frowns and thinks for quite a while. In a low voice he says, "During one period, which I believe I spoke of with one of you earlier this evening I quit the Gold Dragons, but I did not leave the DC. When King Claudia was kidnapped by Flamelich and made her pregnant, her twin sons were born inherently evil without any choice to be good or evil. Joe Hand, the love of Claudia's life, took the twin boys, one that looked normal and one that was born with dragon scales, and killed them behind Outcast Castle with his own hands. I couldn't stomach that. None of us could for our own reasons. It was an out of control situation. I hoped for other solutions. Who knows the limitations of love, magic, or if we could get the gods to intervene? The events of that night, ruined us, the Gold Dragons, ...for years. We all picked up our swords and walked off in different directions after that night. Only time and some perspective healed those wounds enough to carry on after several years.

"Other than that, it has enabled me to help more people than any other path I could have chosen, as far as I know."

Question: "What is the Consortium's position on mixed race members."

Valdor gives a very short answer. "I am a half elf. It is what is in one's heart that matters."

Question: "Does this mean we get to ride on dragons?"

"I have. I still consider it a great honor when one intelligent being agrees to bear another in such a way. If I was a Centaur, for instance, I would not want to be considered a mount by another as a matter of course. I have never asked to ride on a dragon or any other honorable being of conscience."

Question: "If you cannot tell us the exact nature of our trials, can you guarantee that they are honorable and that we will be asked to do no evil?"

"It is an honorable question. Dalinor answered it well."

Question: Furthermore, once we are members, do we decide what tasks must be undertaken or are they appointed to us?

"No DC member can command another. We do work together. Once in the DC, you will not be "told" to do anything, but you may be asked. You may discover two great needs and only be able to accomplish one. In that case, you might contact the Shining Dragons and ask for help with one of them. I'm sure they would help if they could.

"We do assign the trials. You may decide to change your mind about joining us at any time with no consequences to yourselves should you choose not to accept one of them."

Question: "Out of curiosity, have you been briefed by others on our past adventures? To have caught the eye of the Dragon Consortium I would assume you have learned details that have been kept from the general public. If so, did you hear of these from the source, or have rumors of our deeds made there way to the public during the months we've been away? I want to make sure there are no new security concerns we need to be aware of."

Valdor smiles a tight smile and nods to Dalinor. "Dalinor, VeMundr, and myself took on the task of deciding whether to invite you to join the DC. No others were in on our discussions. VeMundr needed to take on another task or he would have been here with us. We are always security minded."

Question: "Can you tell us whether we are aiding both Hook City and the Southern Continent, or is this a situation where what's best for Hook City is on one side, the needs of others in the South are on the other side, and us in the middle? I'm not sure that it would affect our decision, but I feel it's important to know if we are being asked to take actions that could make our friends and neighbors feel we are turning our backs on them."

Valdor says, "We ask that all DC groups build their castle in their homeland. This is for several purposes. One is to remind ourselves of where we came from and that they still have responsibilities to home. Another is to have a place where those we love can come for help, even when we are gone. And we always return home when called away. Sometimes, after a difficult adventure, coming home eases the heart in a way that nothing else can. Your scope of influence will become global. Hook City is included in that and should always have that special place in your hearts.

"Beyond that, I think you should trust us. We will talk of the first trial if you accept our invitation to become part of the DC.

"What other questions or concerns do you have friends?"

=====

[ooc: Ve Mundr is Daniel K and he went on vacation this week.]


RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Wednesday August 5th, 2015 12:44:41 AM
Tink weighs the words spoken by Dalinor and Valdor. She clasps her hands together and sighs quietly, contemplating all that has been asked and answered.

"I have no further questions to ask. And I thankyou for answering mine honestly"

Tink is ready to deliberate with the rest of the IA in private.

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Wednesday August 5th, 2015 1:44:52 AM
Zane looks directly at the both of them, "I don't think you understood my question. I may look like a Minotaur, but I'm not a full blooded Minotaur. And since we are talking about the Dragon Consortium, the Dragon's themselves will probably have a problem with me, unless you can figure out who the other half of my parentage is.
As I said, I know my mother was, possibly still is a Ships Captain for the Minotaur's warship fleet, although there has been no sight of her in over 20 years.
My father was definitely not a Minotaur, though he apparently looked like one from the rumors I've heard.
Since this is a secured room, and I wish to be fully honest.
I've told my friends, but none of them have ever seen me actually unleash my rage in any form."
Zane stands up, moves well away from everyone, he ends up hunched over, his ears actually fold forward, towards the floor, then begin to shrink. At the same time, the fur on his head and neck begins to turn the color of his horns as well as scaly. His snout gets slightly longer, but his jaw changes shape, with viscous teeth growing from both lower and upper jaws.
Going unnoticed until he brings his hands across in front of him as if tearing at the very air itself, each of his fingers now ends in a giant bronze colored claw. And when he finally looks up, staring directly at Valdor, his head, from his shoulders to his snout is no longer a Minotaur's. It is most definitely a Bronze Dragon's with a great big mouthful of teeth and vertically slit golden-green eyes .
He then turns away from everyone, and shortly there after he turns back, but his hood is now pulled up and covering his head as he usually wears it, he also refuses to look anyone in eyes, since he's now shown his greatest shame, as well the source of his magic and unnatural strength of body.
"Now, I hope you understand my question, fully."

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Wednesday August 5th, 2015 7:25:59 AM
Garret starts to say something when Zane gives his performance. He sits and stares openly while eating a tart. When Zane sits back down Garret ponders saying something, but he remains quiet, not wanting to be the first one to break the silence.

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/11 
Wednesday August 5th, 2015 8:11:23 AM
"Soooo...one of the Iron Dragons will be an actual dragonkin? That sounds pretty boss to me." He doubts it will be an issue to Valdor and Dalinor, but he waits to be sure.

Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Wednesday August 5th, 2015 10:16:47 AM

Sesha observes Zane, but doesn't make any vocal judgements. Whatever she has decided, she files away in her brain. However, she has a pretty good idea of how the consortium will respond.



Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Wednesday August 5th, 2015 2:09:10 PM
When Zane's comments on mixed races come up the cleric allows his mind to wander. Although extremely proud of his heritage, the cleric remembers how it was a halfling that cleared his father's name. In the land of might makes right and it was a halfling who came to his aid. Any potential seeds of racial bias were washed away that day. Still, it occurs to him that he never discussed such issues with the group...Zane is concerned with his racial identity, I wonder what he will think about my situation. Not an accident of birth, but an intentional abdication of my humanity. Once I get my vengeance on the lich that kill my family I will become an outsider in the Wold. No longer a mere humanoid, but an agent of the gods straddling the realms.
(10th lvl Avengers who have their vengeance have the outsider creature type)

I have no more questions and I think we all know how we would like to answer as individuals, but we will need a couple minutes to discuss this as a group.

Dalinor Tor [Cayzle] 
Wednesday August 5th, 2015 3:48:43 PM
"It would be illogical and hypocritical for me to judge you for your parentage, Zane Stormfront of Hook City, even if I felt any negativity toward your heritage," says Dalinor, "which I do not."

"And I will not speak for Valdor Dragonstone, but did you not hear the grief in his voice as he told the story of two ill-fated half-dragon babes?"

"Perhaps there might be those among the good dragons of the Wold who would look askance at you. So what? The Consortium is not governed by the opinions of those outside its membership, be they dragon, demon, or demigod, not in matters of ethics and morals, of right and wrong."

She rises and makes ready to leave with Valdor, in order to give the Iron Adventurers time to deliberate.

Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Wednesday August 5th, 2015 7:14:56 PM
Beri looks on at the transformation, and his druid curiosity is the only one that has questions, and those mostly concerning biology and shape shifting... but none he would ever ask out loud. He has no further questions and allows the others to leave so the IA can deliberate.

Valdor [Jerry] 
Wednesday August 5th, 2015 10:22:04 PM
Valdor doesn't blink an eye. "It will not be a problem with me, Zane Stormfront. It may give Joe Hand some misgivings when you meet and he WILL see through your disguise. But though his emotions may get the better of him for a bit, meeting you will be good for him. He just may not know it yet. In fact, with your leave, I will tell him before the two of you meet to spare him some possible unneeded memories. We will talk later.

"The other future issue may be, though it does not affect our decision here today, that at some point, you may be called before the Council of Dragons. I do not know how they will react to your heritage." Valdor grins mischievously, "And that likely will be good for them to see as well!"

"Again, neither of these possible situations should affect your decision or give you a moment's hesitation, Zane."

With that, Valdor stands, and pulls back Dalinor's chair for her, being a gentleman.

"Since all your questions are answered for the moment, we will excuse ourselves to the other room. If any questions come up during your discussion, please call us back in to ask. Take your time."

And with that, Valdor leaves with Dalinor leaving you alone.


RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Thursday August 6th, 2015 6:15:53 AM
Tink waits for the pair to leave and for the IA to be alone once more.

"Well this is ... interesting. Perhaps we should do a quick show of hands to see who's in favour and who isn't before we get into deep discussions?"

If there are no objections, Tink raises her hand in the air "All in favour of the IA joining the Dragon Consortium?"

The process might seem like that from a court or trial, but it's what Tink knows.

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/11 
Thursday August 6th, 2015 7:40:33 AM
Restlin simply raises his hand.

Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Thursday August 6th, 2015 10:08:17 AM

Sesha isn't sure, and it shows.

"I've always been a servant to others. I've just started doing things for myself. I don't know if I want the rest of my, potentially very long, days ahead to be spent guarding the Wold."

She sighs.

"But it's a group that Serenbeth would have approved of, and Valdor has brought a dead god back. And I spend time helping people anyways."

She raises her silk-wrapped pebble-holding hand.

"I'm in."

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Thursday August 6th, 2015 10:51:28 AM
Garret shrugs and raises his hand, saying to Sesha, "You know, that is what we seem to be end up doing all the time anyway, so why not get a little more organized? And it's not like we can't quit if we don't like it, right?"

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Thursday August 6th, 2015 11:49:17 AM
Bosk raises his hand in the air. The Dragon Consortium has protected the Wold against the worst of catastrophes, and we have been asked to join the greatest force for good the Wold has ever seen. Each of us began our journey weak, but the gods drew us together and strengthened us through our trials as the smith tempers the iron in his flames. The journey turning iron into tempered steel is a long one taking time and enduring the heat, and we have come out the better for it.

Now we are being given a choice. We can help protect the Wold and stand up for all that is good, or we can sit back and let others do that job...It would never sit right with me to put that much of my fate in another's hands.



Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Thursday August 6th, 2015 12:07:55 PM
Zane, still with his hood pulled far forward, simply raises his hand without saying a word.

Time to Talk - co-DM SteveK 
Thursday August 6th, 2015 3:05:06 PM
The Iron Adventurers continue their deliberations alone. As Valdor said, time is on their side, but it appears they are deciding quickly!

Because if the Inner Sanctum spell and no servants in the room, the heroes will have to knock on one of the doors. And it looks like another benefit of the spell, the DC are serious that the Iron Adventurers can talk in complete privacy!

Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Thursday August 6th, 2015 4:33:12 PM
I agree, I have only heard good things about the DC. I am sure the members are as varied as anywhere else, but they all seem to have their hearts in the right place. And it makes sense to join a group that can help us make the Wold a better place. I say we join.

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Thursday August 6th, 2015 5:28:53 PM
"I have no fear about joining them, it's just I'm worried about the rest of you. You are associated with me, which I've heard will cause a majority of dragons to kill me out right, I just worry that will cause you all to do something that will be detrimental.
That is my only worry about it, I trust the Consortium, it's just the reactions of others that worries me."
Zane empties his over sized stein and then leans back in the 'taur sized chair.

Time to Talk - co-DM SteveK 
Thursday August 6th, 2015 6:21:27 PM
And with an unanimous vote, do the Iron Adventurers want to continue talking among themselves? Or do they want to bring Valdor and Dalinor back into the room?

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Thursday August 6th, 2015 6:35:45 PM
"I know we've already made up our minds, but maybe a reasonable time of 15 more minutes would seem like we thought a bit harder, even though in our hearts we know this is right."

Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Thursday August 6th, 2015 6:46:41 PM

Sesha shakes her head and grins.

"No point. I have something I need Valdor to explain. I'm sure we aren't the shortest deliberation they've ever had either."

Sesha stands and pokes her head out of the sanctum.

"We've decided!", she yells. "Each for our own reasons, but I think it's safe to say we are ready for your tests."

She looks at Valdor and says a little quieter.

"And for my bedtime story. The one about how dead gods come back to life."

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Thursday August 6th, 2015 7:22:53 PM
I do not think they can hear us in here. I think we need to knock on the door due to the spells in place. The horned cleric picks up his drink and raises it in the air. May the gods find favor in our decision, and may we prove ourselves to be an unfaltering force good. He then takes a sip, stands up and goes to knock on the door.

Valdor [Jerry] 
Thursday August 6th, 2015 11:20:04 PM
Valdor and Dalinor are sitting at the bar when the knock comes.

"That was fast. I guess they have another few questions? Come, partner, let's go ease their hearts with more answers."

He stands and lets Dalinor lead the way to the door and opens it for her. Closing the door behind them, he smiles entering and sits, growing serious and listening hard.

"Yes? Do you have some more questions for us?"

RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Friday August 7th, 2015 12:07:38 AM
Tink stands as the two members of the DC re-enter the room.

"Thankyou for giving us time to discuss your proposal. I think my sister, Sesha, says it best. We each have our own reasons for our travels, much like we all have our own reasons to wish to join the Consortium. We wish to face the trials" She then smiles a little "After a few stories and ales, of course"

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/11 
Friday August 7th, 2015 8:52:52 AM
Restlin can't help but chuckle at Zane's worries. "Dude, I know you're being serious, but I've already been killed by a dragon. What are the chances of that happening twice? We'll be good."

When Valdor and Dalinor return, Restlin nods along with Tink. "Yea, we understand this is a big deal, so don't think we're treating it casually. For many of us, this is something we've dreamed about; the decision was made long before you two walked into our lives."

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Friday August 7th, 2015 10:00:07 AM
When Restlin mentions being killed by a dragon, Garret mumbles, "There sure is a lot of talk about dragons, but somehow I'm guessing I am not going to get to ride on one."

He picks up the last of the tarts he had piled on his plate and munches away.

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Friday August 7th, 2015 10:40:32 AM
Bosk smiles. A wise man once said that you can do anything if you stay focused and keep your mind on it. Gods only know how many creatures I have ridden. On the Day of Faith, just before the chit machine went crazy, a bunch of dinosaurs escaped from a circus and I took the opportunity to dimension door onto its back and rode the thing through town. I only wish I could have convinced the owner to sell it to me as a mount.

Now you are a monk, there is no reason you cannot jump on to the back of just about anything. The way I see it, we have fought two dragons. One volunteered a ride to Restlin and one was a witch who transformed herself using some forbidden magic. That would have been the perfect opportunity to jump on her back and "grapple" her.

Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Friday August 7th, 2015 2:43:14 PM

Sesha winces a bit at Bosks comment about forbidden magic.

"I think he meant to say unusual magic. Nothing is forbidden a witch, it's how we use our magic that counts, not the spells we cast."



Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Friday August 7th, 2015 4:59:28 PM
I suppose you *could* jump on a dragon's back, but if a hamburger jumped on your head would you leave it there or would you gobble it up? I would suggest not trying mount a dragon without it having given you permission first.

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Friday August 7th, 2015 6:03:27 PM
Bosk shakes his head. Sorry, this was just before you were with us. I should have specified. It was not that it was a witch spell, and not because of the special nature of dragons that I say this spell was forbidden. She was drawing upon the power of the Chaos Bell for her magic. I do not pretend to understand the full extent of the powers of the Chaos Bell or how her magic worked, but if memory serves me right, it could have destroyed the entire Southern Continent if not the Wold. I may not agree with your magics, but at least they do not put entire Wold in danger.

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Friday August 7th, 2015 7:01:50 PM
"It was the bell that caused the land to move wasn't it? It is not something anyone should be using, especially those capricious enough to not care about the results of it's use.
Some of the members here, those that have been around the longest that is, have probably noticed my horn, hooves and nails. The more powerful i become in magic, the more my dragon-kin blood shows in my nature. That's one reason I try not to use those special abilities, because dragons are special. It may not be forbidden, but it is highly frowned upon, and the consequences could be severe, or so I've at least heard."
Zane stays casually seated in the chair he's occupied, waiting for the Consortium to respond to the groups decision.

Valdor [Jerry] 
Saturday August 8th, 2015 12:49:20 AM
Valdor listens, face serious and then wonders as the group instantly devolves into another discussion of riding dragons. After a moment's reflection, he puts it down to stress relief at the decision being made.

He laughs out loud at Beri's quip. "That's the....most amazing statement I've heard in a long time, Beri." Then he catches his error. "Sorry, I should have asked. May I call you Beri?"

"Excellent! We are honored to have you. He nods to Dalinor and asks her to widen it to cover the entire building. I think some celebration is in order."

"Gaston! Champagne please! And anything else that these heroes want!"

He then sits back and enjoys the company of these fine heroes.

Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Saturday August 8th, 2015 2:09:46 AM

Sesha huffs.

"I'm totally strong enough to endanger the world with my magic. I just choose not to. That witch wasn't so great, if I had a chaos bell.."

Sesha trails off, pondering a showdown on in the realm of shadow with this un-named and probably dead Witch she suddenly considered a rival.

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/11 
Saturday August 8th, 2015 11:12:59 AM
Restlin casually takes Sesha's hand. "Of course you are, dear. You are Sesha the Cruel, destroyer of worlds. Only a fool would underestimate you."

There's no apparent sarcasm in his voice.

Time to Talk - co-DM SteveK 
Saturday August 8th, 2015 2:23:10 PM
At Valdors call, Gaston immediately responds. Each hero has their own assigned servant bring them a crystal flute (appropriate to their size) of an amber, bubbly wine and a ready carafe to ensure they are never empty. Gareth actually has two servants buzzing around him, the second arriving with a platter of those delectable a the half long had most enjoyed during the social hour and dinner.

Yet it seems Valdor is not quite done yet. The servants place the its on convienient folding tables and again bustle out. The thought wafts through various minds: there has been talk of trials....

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Saturday August 8th, 2015 2:46:44 PM
Garret quickly slaps his head, looking for a hamburger. He then glares at Beri for apparently trying to trick him into thinking there was a hamburger on his head.

When the servant arrives with the wine Garret whispers to him, "Are there any hamburgers around?"

Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Sunday August 9th, 2015 12:00:05 PM

Sesha grumbles, but appears soothed by Restlins affections.

She thinks a minute about their quest that's soon to be revealed. She pours some of the offered drink into Pot-pot, her sentient cauldron, then waves her hand over it. Soon the drink turns pink and bubbly, and she sips the fizzy drink contentedly.

"I had good friends in It'lal who tried to pass your trials. The Shadow Guardians never became the Shadow Dragons, but from chance meetings in the Giggling Ghost they were able to tell me about how much they learned from their trials... about my blood-kin, how they were called the Twilight Elves.. and about the wars against them were little more than fear of thier skin. I've still to decide if I think their eventual split over the trials was worth the lore they discovered about our heritage."

She pauses and frowns, apparently discontent with the number of bubbles in her tiny cauldron. She blows into her straw and the bubbles increase. Satisfied, she starts again.

"I was worried that some similar task might split the Iron Adventurers. We don't share the same racial prejudices that the Shadow Guardians did, but I fear religious differences might pull us in different directions. Still.."

She winks at Valdor and beams her childish grin.

"The chance to get the backing of the Dragons might be enough for me to find what I need to get Little Spirit up and running again, back in heaven where she belongs. Bring on the trials please, Sesha the Powerful needs a chance to prove to the world the might of Serenbeth and the Blood Witches of the Ga'alin!"



Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Monday August 10th, 2015 12:51:10 PM
Garret looks around at the others, not quite as impressed as everyone else. He says, "Will the testing be after dessert?"

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Monday August 10th, 2015 6:59:50 PM
Bosk raises his glass. May no man separate what the gods and powers of this Wold have brought together. The cleric then takes a long drink and lets the cool liquid slide down his throat.

Silently he prays the prayer that he has so often prayed. Let these trials bring me closer to my vengeance... He knows it might not happen today or tomorrow, but with the gods of vengeance and balance on his side it was his destiny to some day find that which he so ardently seeks.

Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Monday August 10th, 2015 9:36:40 PM
Beri takes takes the glass in his hand.
Well, all my friends call me Beri so as long as you consider me a friend go right ahead.
The druid joins the others in taking a taking a long drink of the cool gold liquid.

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/11 
Monday August 10th, 2015 9:44:56 PM
Restlin calmly drinks his champagne. "They sure are milking the suspense," he thinks to himself.

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Monday August 10th, 2015 9:57:18 PM
Zane downs a taur sized mug of beer and refills it.....

RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Tuesday August 11th, 2015 12:47:35 AM
Tink refrains from drinking too much, and just nurses the one mug.

Valdor [Jerry] 
Tuesday August 11th, 2015 2:14:53 AM
Valdor gives Dalinor a short quick look after Sesha finally makes her true feelings and attitudes known.

He turns to her, and gives her an honest, but serious face. "I wondered when you would finally broach the subject of the Shadow Guardians, Sesha. What happened with that group was...tragic and it may have been our fault, I'm not sure. I hold the opinion that we asked them to join the Consortium too soon after their group merged together. I believe that they did not split over the trials, but due to their own inability to work together as a team. But you are correct, that they split apart as an adventuring group during the trials. After your trials, when you are full fledged members of the Dragon Consortium, I will talk with you more concerning this if you wish.

"Sesha, if you are concerned about the trials splitting the Iron Adventurers, then make it your personal charge to see that they do not."

He signals for a piece of Wild Cherry Pie and when it is brought, he digs in with a large bite and wipes his mouth with a napkin.

"Which I guess is as good of an reason to move forward and offer you your first trial. Remember, if you choose not to accept it, we will part on good terms. If you do accept it, please sign at the bottom."

Valdor signals to Gaston.

"Yes sir." Gaston crosses the room to a desk with two vases full of Ironflowers sitting on it and opens the single drawer removing an elaborately carved wooden scroll case.

He carries it to the center of the banquet table and sets it down.

Valdor says, "Thank you Gaston."

He turns to the group. "The case has no magical protections on it."

Valdor waits to see who will open the case.

-----

Once opened, there is a scroll inside. The writing is in the best calligraphy and the ink simple and black. There are no other adornments or flourishes upon the scroll.

The wording is very simple:

-----

Iron Adventurers First Trial and Mission.

- We have information that there is a threat to the Wold from Jerichospace. Ve Mundr had a Divination that revealed "Oyster Bay in Gateway Downs will be the first to fall."

Instructions Are:

- Find 'Oyster Bay.'

- Find the nature of this threat.

- Assess situation, if feasible end it. If not, get information back to The Dragon Consortium in Hook City.

- Protect innocent life.

Sign below if you accept this mission as your first trial:

-----

Valdor sits back and takes another bite of pie. He glances at Dalinor and smiles encouragingly.



RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Tuesday August 11th, 2015 6:02:23 AM
"Um, anyone have a quill?" Tink is quite ready to sign the document

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/11  d20+18=37 ;
Tuesday August 11th, 2015 6:13:25 AM
Restlin produces the pen Valdor used to sign his card. The wizard's signature takes up a massive amount of available space, leaving roughly half for the rest of his friends.

In his defense, his mind is elsewhere, already trying to figure out what oyster bay could be.

Knowledge, Geography: 37

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character  d20+7=18 ;
Tuesday August 11th, 2015 6:33:56 AM
Zane walks over and signs his name.
As he returns to his chair he thinks back to his time spent on ship in the last couple years, because it sounds like a port where ships would be common....

Profession, Seaman 18

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Tuesday August 11th, 2015 7:22:53 AM
Garret gobbles down some pie and after the parchment is revealed, he scampers over to quickly sign the paper. After he signs he looks down and tries to wipe away the bit of cherry that he left on the paper.

Dalinor Tor [Cayzle] 
Tuesday August 11th, 2015 7:24:47 AM

Dalinor listens carefully. She wonders a bit at the japery and light approach of this group. Her own group, she thinks, is more serious. But surviving Koshe Marr would make anyone serious. Different groups, different styles.

Still, is the gnome really more interested in dessert than the quest? What's this obsession with riding dragons? Has the witch really destroyed worlds? Why would being killed once by a dragon mean you are immune to being killed by a second dragon? These are all "jokes," surely. Of course they are. Only the slightest puzzlement shows on Dalinor's face.

The elf wizard sips her wine and listens some more.

RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility  d20+12=25 ; d20+12=23 ; d20+12=14 ; d20+12=26 ; d20+22=29 ;
Tuesday August 11th, 2015 12:18:35 PM
Tink frowns and casts a Prestidigitation spell to remove Garret's cherry pie stain from the parchment.

With that done, she prepares to sign her name, but then pauses. "Before I sign what might very well be some legally binding document, might I ask a few things? Firstly, why do we need to sign such a document? Will there be any repercussions should we fail or deviate from the task? Secondly, the task states that we are to contact the Dragon Consortium here in Hook City. How is that contact to be made, and to anyone in particular?" Tink grins slightly "I don't suppose you would be granting us temporary use of a consortium ring? Only should contact need to be made of course. Thirdly, are there any time constraints for us to complete this task by?"

A legal document is practically a sacred thing to a Justicar, and Tink has no intention of failing the trial before it has even begun.

---------------------
Knowl Arcana: 25. What possible threats could come from Jericho Space to affect a specific town?
Knowl Geography: 23. Anything of note regarding Oyster Bay or Gateway Downs? Distance from Hook?
Knowl History: 14. Anything in the history books on Oyster Bay or Gateway Downs?
Knowl History: 26. Anything in the history books about something from Jericho Space impacting the Wold?
Sense Motive: 29. Any indication that Dalinor and Valdor know more than they are letting on?


Mission and Contract - co-DM SteveK 
Tuesday August 11th, 2015 1:45:07 PM
Gaston produces the scroll case and Katinka jumps at the chance to open it, but then holds back, asking several pertinent questions involving the jurisprudence of the case.

Restlin, Zane, and Garrett sign, and the others have opportunity to sign or ask (or ask then sign!) the document of the First Trial.

Restlin is almost certain that Oyster Bay is a town in Gateway Downs. Yes! There were a couple of merchants talking about Pearl prices on The Bridge during the Day of Faith. They had mentioned there was a ship in from there with a cargo then. Perhaps the location could be found at the docks?

Zane also checks his memory, but this 'Oyster Bay' must be rather small and out of the way. Zane's extensive sea knowledge has never heard of the place.

Katinka thinks back on a different set of knowledge, that of the arcane and history. She readily knows that Teleportation Circles are set for a single location and and distance within the same crystal sphere (ie anywhere in Jericho Space) would not be a problem. She also remmbers that the Teucri are supposed to have been from(and returned to) Jericho Space. And there was history of the adventuring team Children of Chaos battling an organization of Inevitables from Jericho Space, who also came to the Wold, homing in on the Chaos Marks of the CoC themselves. Why, Peerimus or one of the other Retired CoC the heroes have met may have more information!

Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Tuesday August 11th, 2015 5:43:59 PM
Beri is about to open the box when Katink is starts to... then she holds back... and Beri isn't quite sure if it's opened from his angle, but in the case it wasn't opened he will open it
***
This looks in order to me. From what I see this is pretty much what we would do anyway other than we are now involving the Dragon Consortium if we can't stop the threat... though what concerns me most is the phrasing "first to fall". I really hope the divination hasn't foretold that we will arrive to see the first city fall before we are able prevent this threat.

Beri signs his name at the bottom with the others, then joins Garret for a large slice of pie.

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Tuesday August 11th, 2015 11:52:54 PM
Bosk begins walking over to sign until the Justicar offers her help with reviewing the legalese. Although he trusts the dragons completely, he figure he should let Tink do her thing. After she asks her questions it is clear that she knows her stuff, and so he waits for her to give her approval before signing his name.

Valdor [Jerry] 
Tuesday August 11th, 2015 11:59:39 PM
Valdor pushes his pie plate back before he is tempted to get another piece and listens to Katinka nodding.

"I would be disappointed if some of those questions were not asked.

As to why we sign this, there are several reasons. One it adds a formality to the proceedings which has proved helpful in the past. Two, there is a Dragon Consortium Museum being currently constructed in Plateau City. They are clamoring for exhibits, so this can possibly be given to them if the information therein is not still sensitive after the trials are completed. Third, Mordrid asked me to. He is from the Floating City. If it was up to him, he'd hire a 3rd party Justicar and make it a magical binding. We disagreed on that. He ceded the point to me. We have this discussion every time we start the trials witha new group.

Deviate from the "path," as needed to accomplish the mission. As I'm sure you have experienced in the past, 'no plan survives first contact with the enemy.'

"When you are done, send a messenger to this location and that will trigger one of us to return to Hook City to meet with you. And no, we will not give you a communication ring until after the trials, Sir Hushfoot." Valdor tries unsuccessfully to hide a grin at that question. He hastily adds, "If the situation truly warrants contacting us before the trial is completed, by all means, contact us. If that occurs, then something untoward has happened."

"There are no time constraints on the mission unless moving too slowly causes the threat from Jerichospace to succeed."

Grunting with a bit of rheumatism, he rises and pours himself come Klah. He sniffs the caffeinated beverage and mutters, "Just enough cinnamon." Blowing on it, he begins to sip.

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Wednesday August 12th, 2015 8:17:26 AM
As the others discuss Oyster Bay, Garret says, "Sorry I can be of no help there. I know very little about this land, but I am quite eager to look around and see if we can locate it quickly."

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/11 
Wednesday August 12th, 2015 8:24:17 AM
Restlin is so glad Tink can deal with all that.

"Oyster Bay is a small town out in Gateway Downs known for its pearl trade. Oysters, pearls...yea, you get it. Unremarkable place unless you're into pearls. Should be easy enough to get there even without the Dragon's fancy rings."

Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Wednesday August 12th, 2015 12:53:45 PM

Sesha grins.

"Pearls are pretty. We should definitely go."

Sesha signs using the undercommon alphabet. Such a practical thing, she is able to sign neatly, with some minor flourish, wholly within a swoop of one of Restlins letters.

"Even your signature puffs out like a peacock, Mage-priest. I'm afraid one day I'll find you raiding my dresses."

She winks, and looks around pointedly. If she's the last to sign, she will hand the book back. If not, she hands the pen off to the next person.

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Wednesday August 12th, 2015 6:00:02 PM
Zane nods as he he listens to what's being said. He gets up and refills his drink and then grabs a piece of pie before retaking his seat.

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Wednesday August 12th, 2015 6:05:52 PM
Bosk waits for Tink to sign before adding his own name to the sheet. Glancing at Sesha he adds Just to be clear, my signature is large, not puffy. He then gives a slight tug to straighten out the coat he found on the last mission. A handsome thing sewn of chimera skin. The material is strangely soft and warm, thick enough that it conceals any weapons or armor underneath yet light enough to be cool to wear in the sun...but more importantly he loves how the end sweeps just above the floor as he walks making him look totally bad but in a good way. Basically, the complete opposite of a dress.

Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Wednesday August 12th, 2015 7:27:27 PM
Bosk, you name is only four letters... I'm not sure how puffy you can make that. If you want to make it bigger I suggest adding a nickname in the middle... maybe Bosk "the puff" Deox.
Underneath Bosk's name Beri signs his name in the flowing Spencerian script he was required to spend hours practicing in school. His fingers start to hurt just thinking about the hours he'd spent just learning to sign his name to his teachers exacting standards... a task that comes up surprisingly infrequently in the Wold.

Mission and Contract - co-DM SteveK 
Wednesday August 12th, 2015 9:04:36 PM
All the Iron Adventurer heroes have signed the contract save Katinka.

It looks like the meeting is winding down... Unless any of the heroes have more to say?

Valdor [Jerry] 
Wednesday August 12th, 2015 9:21:01 PM
Valdor, shrugs and joins Zane in another piece of pie. "Good isn't it? Want some Klah?"

RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Wednesday August 12th, 2015 9:58:49 PM
After much contemplation, Tink signs the document. The Dragon Consortium didn't get their reputation for tricking or deceiving adventurers. She is quite confident they can be trusted.

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Thursday August 13th, 2015 7:29:40 AM
Garret pats his round belly and says, "I think I might actually be full."

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/11 
Thursday August 13th, 2015 8:25:18 AM
Restlin shakes his head. "Dear, have you seen my closet? My wardrobe's much nicer than yours. Your dresses are safe."

The wizard finishes up his dessert & champagne. While eating, he completely fails to ponder any metaphorical meaning to Sesha's signature being encircled in his own.

Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Thursday August 13th, 2015 11:29:41 AM

Sesha shrugs and makes a mental note to go spy in Restlins closet.

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Thursday August 13th, 2015 12:37:20 PM
For those curious about Restlin's room, here you go. It looks like some of our old files disappeared, so I re-uploaded what I have for peoples room images. I think I still have newer the map files, but it will take a while for me to find them and convert them to image files. I do not think I have worked on these sinceI was ADM for Hook.

Iron Tower
Roof Top Garden
(Originally Zeoll stayed here. Also works as a Druid garden)
Bosk's Room
Restlin's Room
Sesha's Room
Beri's Room
Garret Room
Tink's Room

I these are not complete, especially Tinka's and Beri's, and Zane still needs a room, but this is what I have so far. I can till add to and edit peoples rooms. Also, these were smaller images from my email. The full rooms on the maps have much better detail.

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Thursday August 13th, 2015 6:15:32 PM
Looking at Valdor, "I have no idea what Klah is. I'm just a simple 'Taur."

Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Thursday August 13th, 2015 6:22:16 PM
You know, Valdor, there is one more thing I forgot to ask. Are there any specific groups that have it out for the DC that we should know about? I doubt it would change our minds any, but we would like to be able to ask our eyes and ears around town to notify us if they happen to notice members of such a group congregating close by.

ooc: James, can I swap my room for the rooftop druid garden (with the addition of a small covered hut/bed... Beri don't feel the need to rough it as much as Zeoll, especially after a hard month of adventuring)
James That would be a group decision since is more than redecorating your current room and should be discussed via email. I can easily add a fountain and plants to your room.

Valdor [Jerry] 
Thursday August 13th, 2015 10:27:40 PM
"If there is an evil group out there, they dislike us. Followers of Marteaus and Ga'al. We stopped both of their last bids for dominance. The situation is; however, that we tend to bury our opponents rather than just stop them. For instance, have you heard anything over the past few years about the Sons of Dread?

"On top of that, we have had a "smaller footprint" upon things over the past few years with my generation needing to retire and the next generation getting somewhat of a slow start. With the Shining Dragons and now the potential of adding you heroes to our ranks, we'll be in a much better standing."

He stands.

"A toast! To the Iron Adventurers, to the First Trial, and to the future. May it be bright!"



RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Thursday August 13th, 2015 11:16:50 PM
It's not every day that someone from the consortium gives a toast in your honor. Tink practically jumps to her feet, thrusting her mug into the air with gusto - and then awkwardly twisting and moving so as not to spill her drink.

OOC: Nice work on the rooms James!

Mission and Contract - co-DM SteveK 
Friday August 14th, 2015 4:00:23 AM
Valdor and Dalinor toast the success of the Iron Adventurers and their First Trial, and the meeting and dinner come to a close. Soon the heroes have left Alistair's Manor and have travelled back to the Iron Tower.

So, it looks like several actions need to commence!

- Find Ouster Bay
- Upgrade the Iron Tower
- Go to the Catacombs
- do necessary training, research, or visits

It looks like for the time being, the Iron Adventurers actions are on their own initiative!

OOC: Bosk (James) gets a Hero Point for the terrific work on the Iron Tower. Well deserved special award!

ALL HEROES get an additional Hero Point for joining the trial for the Dragon Consortium (they are going to need them)

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Friday August 14th, 2015 8:15:28 AM
Garret raises his mug in a toast and looks down at the small IA emblem he had commissioned some time ago. He smiles a little, proud to be part of such a group. His eyes glaze over as he thinks of the heroes and people he was with over the past years who are not here today with them.

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/11 
Friday August 14th, 2015 11:52:07 AM
Restlin heads right to bed afterwards. Maybe he had too much to drink, or maybe it was just a heck of a night & took a lot out of him. Regardless, this little magepriest is going to bed.

In the morning, he does his thing before heading downstairs to take advantage of whatever it is Bosk feels like cooking that day. When everyone gathers round, the wizard casts a silent image on the wall of the Gateway Downs.

"Here is about where I think Oyster Bay is," starts the wizard, indicating with his finger.

OOC: Knowledge roll was 37. Do I know right where it is, or just an idea of the location?

"Heranmar is pretty nearby once we enter the Downs. We could always stop there to hone in on the location. They're a xenophobic bunch, but we helped them rebuild their town after a hurricane a while ago, so I bet we could get some good info about just where Oyster Bay is, and any odd happenings lately.

"I'm going to need a few days before we leave; gotta beef this baby up a bit." Restlin points to the protection ring on his finger.

DMSteveK. Restlin does NOT have a clue where Oyster Bay is. What he had is a lead that maybe someone at the docks would know.

Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Friday August 14th, 2015 12:39:15 PM

Sesha grabs Restlins pointing hand, and turns it to point at his bicep.

"I completely agree!"

She laughs, and starts munching on some rolls.

"While you take care of that, I've got some things to handle myself. We were told there's no timeline, so lets not rush more than necessary. Since all of you are happily enrolled with the WLA, I'm going to be spending some time over there. I also have my volunteer time with the butchers, as well as a little bit of potion-making to do. Anyone have any requests before I blow all my money?"



Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Friday August 14th, 2015 1:50:42 PM
ooc: Here is a start for Zane's room. I wanted to make sure everyone at least had a room before I make then look a little nicer. I also am figuring out how to get higher quality images uploaded on this sight. I noticed some items like Tinkas desk that are very detailed are not showing that detail. I tried fixing that below.

Zane's Room
Tink
Iron Tower, better resolution (I recommend zooming in on the kitchen)

Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Friday August 14th, 2015 5:41:00 PM
Well Restlin, that sounds about right but no reason not to get the exact location from someone at the docks. We may have to buy someone a pint or two, but shouldn't be a problem. Maybe we can even book passage with someone heading there, cut some time off our trip.

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/12 
Friday August 14th, 2015 9:00:33 PM
Without looking or comment, Restlin picks up a piece of whatever they're having for breakfast and hurls it at Sesha.

"Hmm...now that I look closer at this map, it appears the area I've circled is the entire coast of the Gateway Downs. Perhaps Beri is right. Zane, I bet you'd have good luck with that..."

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Friday August 14th, 2015 9:35:02 PM
Bosk frowns. Alistair teleported us the first time by an under ground portal under the docs. Unfortunately, when we destroyed the chaos bell I think we destroyed the last of he magics that allow for teleportation between the regions of the Southern Continent. Unless we plan to go through the Koshe Maar, it looks like we are going the long way.

RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility  d20+31=38 ; d20+21=32 ;
Friday August 14th, 2015 10:52:56 PM
"I plan on doing some research in the Hook city library. I understand it to be first class, and given its records on the Teucri, it should have something as mundane as a map of the Southern Continent. After that, I can prepare a teleportation spell to get us there quite quickly" (OOC: If Oyster Bay is in the Gateway Downs - as Hook is - we might be able to teleport there)

Tink walks proudly through the town of Hook displaying her WLA badge. It's a bit strange for her. Allowing herself to be so widely seen in public. Quite a distance from her comfort zone of stealth.

Perception to find the right book in the library: 38
Diplomacy to Gather Info from the local scholars about Oyster Bay: 32

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Friday August 14th, 2015 11:14:23 PM
"Well, I can go down to the docks and see if any of the captains currently in port have ever called at Oyster Bay. Some of the ships down there may even be familiar to me. Anyone want to tag along?
Since I already stopped at the catacombs, I think I'm done shopping and having spent a month on my last ship voyage before I joined you wherever we were, I really don't need to rest up."

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Saturday August 15th, 2015 12:41:59 AM
Bosk shakes his head. "Something as mundane as a map of the Southern Continent"...no such thing exists. Sorry. It is not worth the effort or cost to create one. Having been there twice and having had a member in the IA who had been there before the great migration I can assure you that they are in different regions. Currently we are the North Eastern most region in the Southern Continent.

For those of you new to the area, geography is...fluid here. Every so often the continent rearranges itself, most recently due to the Chaos Bell. Cities and regions switch places and sometimes vanish all together while new ones appear or reappear after many ages. Previously Gateway downs was to our North, the Sargrass to our South. This was just before I arrived in Hook City. Now it is the Ocean to our "North". However the entire city rotated. The South of the city that accepted the floating land boats of the Sargrass now faces East and accepts ocean going vessels. The Gateway Downs is to our East, but with the rotation lines up with the old North of the city, so no change was made on our end, however their city flipped on end and now we are closer to their old "Northern Side" as opposed to the "Old Southern Side". Since one cannot teleport or move magically between regions, and because maps change randomly and frequently, no one bothers to make them. The best you can do is teleport to the edge of a region, cross it on foot and then teleport across that region.

RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Saturday August 15th, 2015 12:52:28 AM
"... or find out as much information about it as possible so that I can scry the location and then try a teleport" Tink is ready to give up on the teleportation idea just yet.

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Saturday August 15th, 2015 1:06:59 AM
We can still teleport. We just need to either do it in two jumps or travel to the edge of our region's borders and teleport from there.

Mission and Contract - co-DM SteveK  d10=7 ;
Sunday August 16th, 2015 3:32:03 AM
Several plans and ideas are bantered around, but only Katinka moves those ideas on what they COULD do to actions she IS doing.

The next day, Katinka goes to one of the librarys of Hook City and spends a fairly fruitless day. It is only towards the end that one of the apprentice librarians hesitantly approaches. "Madame Katinka, you are from the Iron Adventurers who had dinner with the Dragon Consortium? I can't help but notice your Woldian League of Adventurers badge. While there are dozens of liberators and scores of sages in Hook City, maybe you can get your initial information from the WLA? They deal in information after all."

RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility  d20+7=17 ;
Sunday August 16th, 2015 10:00:33 PM
"I already have much initial information, but it cannot hurt to have too much." Tink lies through her teeth (Bluff: 17)

When the friendly librarian scholar has disappeared from view, an embarrassed Tink hurriedly slinks away from the library and makes a bee-line for the WLA.

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Monday August 17th, 2015 7:34:26 AM
Garret volunteers to go with the massive Zane to the docks saying, "Hey, sure, I'll tag along. Surely some captain will know some tales of such a place."

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/12 
Monday August 17th, 2015 9:57:08 AM
Restlin opts to stay home and work on crafting his ring. His friends are capable people who can track down Oyster Bay without him.

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character  d20+7=18 ;
Monday August 17th, 2015 12:48:47 PM
Zane nods to Garret, gathers up his gear and heads towards the docks.
When Garret asks about he gear, "I've learned to be prepared. Take for instance my arrival at the pyramid. I was just entering the tower when suddenly I was there. Imagine if I hadn't been just returning from an ocean voyage and showed up in pants and shirt. I'd have been in a bit of a really tight spot."
Continuing to the docks, Zane will head for ships that are longer ranged, rather than locals, they'll most likely have more of a chance at knowing about Oyster Bay.

Profession Seaman 18

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Monday August 17th, 2015 4:56:41 PM
Garret looks down at himself, dressed only in pants, no shirt, and no shoes and says, "What's that, now?"

Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Monday August 17th, 2015 5:54:32 PM
Beri joins Zane and the others heading toward the Bay.
I agree, it's always better to be prepared, though it helps when the bulk of your strength comes from within. It also doesn't hurt being able to adapt to your surroundings should you find yourself in an unexpected situation.
As the group walks Beri's beard starts to shorten and his hair becomes much more manageable. His shoulders appear widen and his back becomes taunt as if he's spend a dozen years loading ships and tying down sails. (Druid skill-A Thousand Faces)
I'll never fully understand why people feel more comfortable with someone that looks more like they do, a dog doesn't care if another dog's spots look different. But as long as people are hung up on looks, there's no reason I shouldn't take advantage of it. Now, let's see if we can find the Oyster Bay.

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells  d20=2 ;
Monday August 17th, 2015 9:04:03 PM
Not having his friends skills at gathering information Bosk spends his tie crafting and training a the WLA. When he is done he begins cooking a nice dinner for the group...until he realizes that there is little fresh food left in the kitchen after the groups long quest (cooking = 2). After trying to make do with what the group has on hand and failing miserably he runs into town and picks up dinner and brings is back for everyone. They'll never know who made it once it is served on our plates.

Docks and Training. co-DM SteveK 
Monday August 17th, 2015 10:56:10 PM
After the first day, it is evident that Oyster Bay is going to be harder to find than wandering and asking occasional people. The team at the docks finds no sailor or ship captain who knows of Oyster Bay! (Though the harbor master assigns an assistant to comb the dock registers for the name ). The team at WLA are equally stumped, although at least there the outpost manager willingly will peruse through old reports to see if another group had been there before.

It may take some time. And at the docks, maybe there is only one or two sea captains who have claimed to have known the place.

Probably taking some time to pursue the heroes own pursuits while the rumor mill runs is a good idea. The thought arrives that it may be at least a week.

NOTE: all Catacombs purchases are now available for use.

RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Tuesday August 18th, 2015 6:15:14 AM
Tink returns to the IA tower, a little discouraged by the lack of information she has been able to dig up.

"Since we have some time, I don't suppose anyone has some good divination spells that might help us narrow the search?"

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Tuesday August 18th, 2015 7:23:09 AM
Garret watches Beri transform on the way to the docks and says, "That's a pretty neat trick. Can you make yourself appear smaller, like my size?"

When they cannot find anything at the docks, Garret starts to wonder, "If no one here knows the place, maybe it's not really a place. Maybe it used to be a place. Or maybe it's more like the name of a building, Inn, or section of a town rather than an actual bay."

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/12 
Tuesday August 18th, 2015 8:16:07 AM
Restlin shakes his head at Tink's query. "I don't really *do* divination magic. Divinations & enchantments give me headaches. Honestly, how many times have you witnessed a divination actual return something that was useful BEFORE it happened? It's always 'OH, now that cryptic divination makes sense. Too bad we're all being eaten already.'"

With that, Restlin resumes working on his ring.

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Tuesday August 18th, 2015 11:14:15 AM
Bosk thinks about it for a minute. I am not the most powerful of spell casters. The need for vengeance gives me power, but it has its cost as well. I can cast divination tomorrow. However another in our group may have better luck (My caster level is reduced due to my prestige classes).

The horned cleric continues. The Teucri are the only creatures I am aware of in Jerichospace..but I am not an expert in that field. If we can confirm that the Teucri are responsible then there is a possibility that could use one of my Nemisis spells to help us along. That said, I want to be sure. I have mentioned these spells before, but few of our targets have proven worthy of my sacred vengeance. It is not decision I take lightly. Grendel whose evil cursed the land around him and made it barren did not even earn that wrath.

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character  d20+7=19 ;
Tuesday August 18th, 2015 8:27:48 PM
Zane, everyday will head to the docks, check with the harbor master and see if any new ships are in port. If there are, he'll go and question those captains. He'll also say hello to those Captains he's already questioned, you never know, one of them may remember something and cough up a piece of information.
Zane also stops at the small bakery and picks up a meal for while he's down at the docks, a seaman gets all the fresh food while ashore he can, because once at sea, fresh goes over the side within a week of setting sail.

Profession, Seaman, 19

Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Tuesday August 18th, 2015 9:01:17 PM
Beri returns home the first day mildly disheartened at their failure to find the location. On the way back he picks up his order at the catacombs.
Once he has returned to the quiet of the druid garden in the Iron Tower he takes his armor and casts Transmute Metal to Wood on it so that it will be acceptable to place upon his druid skin. He will then cast Ironwood on it, a task he will repeat every two weeks to keep the armor in this form.

When that task is done he will turn to his trusty staff and and cast spellstaff on it. A smile crawls across the druids face as he stores changestaff inside the staff, a spell he has waited a while to gain the skill to cast.



Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Tuesday August 18th, 2015 9:22:58 PM
Sesha comes back day after day exhausted from her work with the WLA trainers. She's picking up some good stuff, but feels pretty drained afterwards.

One thing she does make time for is a special project. Using her divination magic, she is hard at work each night before turning in. The routine is the same. Divination, Scrying, Dreams, Divination, Scrying, Dreams.

She's sent many many feelers out to those who use Woldsblood like herself, waiting for the right one to answer.

Docks and Training. co-DM SteveK 
Tuesday August 18th, 2015 10:24:06 PM
The Iton Adventurers are disheartened in that Oyster Bay is not an easy place to find, but persevere. Rest lim was sure a merchant on the Bridge mentioned there was a Captain he dealt with from the place, so it almost HAS to be a place.

Catacombs purchases are made, training at the WLA is keeping some people busy, and life around the City. Some of the neighbors ensure they visit the resident heroes.

Madame Weaver stops by to talk about her children and grandchildren. She asks if anyone has heard from her youngest daughter, Tishe', who once adventures with the Bloodpack in the Sargrass Plains. She also checks over Bosk's Steelgrass Armor and makes minor repairs with her manfri-trained weaving skills.

JimBim Brodery stops by to share a mug and talk about economics. The young man has become quite the apothecary and leader among the small merchants in the area. "And all thanks to you guys saving us and giving a leg up!" He tells the heroes that the city is getting calmer. Institutions are in place to go to the gold standard and maintain status as the premier magical city of the Southern Continent.
....

It takes three weeks, 21 days, and then the Iron Adventurer's luck changes.

The WLA sends a young bard over to recite some stories of adventurers in Jericho Space. The Blackbird Lake Heroes of the northern continent swam through a tube; the Children of Chaos more recently fought a whole civilization of clockwork beings called Inevitables from Jericho Space. And a footnote that Peerimus of the CoC has a network of Druids and Eberyon allies across the Downs.

Zane's sea strolls and sailing professionalism pays off. A captain admits to knowing a ship and captain who sail from Oyster Bay which is supposedly on the West Coast of Gateway Downs, days sailing south of The Three Forks Inn. The interesting thing is that the ship's navigator was a Druid who was taught nearby Oyster Bay.

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Wednesday August 19th, 2015 9:03:58 AM
Most days Garret tags along with Zane, often completely disappearing behind him. He pops up now and then, listening in to various conversations and learning about captains and the sea. He hasn't ever been on a real sailing ship, so is intrigued by the various stories.

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/12 
Wednesday August 19th, 2015 10:07:11 AM
Listening to his friends talk while he continues working, an idea occurs to Restlin.

"What if Oyster Bay is a druid grove? That would explain why their navigator had to be a druid. Beri, maybe you could talk to our turtle friend in Maab's temple?"

RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Wednesday August 19th, 2015 10:26:07 AM
Tink is happy to play host to Madame Weaver. She puts the kettle on and is happy to let old woman talk. "Tishe is your daughter? Oh wow! I cast one of her spells every morning! You must be very proud of her" Tink will ask after the other children, what they have been up to, are they all living in Hook, and so on. When the hour gets late, Tink offers to walk the Madame home safely.

Tink will also see to it that at some point the party play host to the Inspector to toast and celebrate his promotion. If possible she would like to try and find a small gift for him. A weapon might send the wrong message, and a piece of armor would be too bulky. Hmm... he doesn't look the sort who would wear lots of jewellery. It takes a few days, but Tink thinks she finally comes across the right item: a finely made quill and ink set (To DM: Can I find something like this at say 10gp to gift to the Inspector?)

...

Tink nods at Restlin's suggestion "An interesting suggestion. I don't suppose they mentioned what race the ship's navigator was? It might help narrow the search as well. But still, a lead is a lead. Perhaps we should find this ship and captain who sail there?"

Docks and Training. co-DM SteveK 
Wednesday August 19th, 2015 5:31:55 PM
Madame Weaver is delighted to speak with Katinka, especially hearing about Tishe having created a spell! "Please, call me Mara. My Dafydd and I had three daughters before Tishe'. They and their husbands and children all work at my shop and live in the city. Tishe' was the only one with her father's wanderlust, Sargrass bless her heart!"

"Still, I had received regular messages from her when she was with the Bloodpack until the destruction of the Sargrass and Great Migration. Since then, not so much."

Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Wednesday August 19th, 2015 7:15:04 PM
Yes Garret, I can pretty much change into any humanoid shape that's between my size and yours... wouldn't be able to turn into a Taur though. That would require a full transformation.
Beri listens to Restlin's idea. It's a long shot, but even if it's not there might end up being a druid grove close by.
That's a good idea Restlin. Hopefully that is the case, it would make getting there a snap if I could simply cast Transport via Plants... actually, even if it's not a druid grove it maybe worth talking to him to see if they know any plants large enough we can use to travel that grow in that climate. At the very least I can look for plants in his grove and ask permission to use them for future travel. Would you like to come with me to ask? The grove is a very beautiful place.

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Wednesday August 19th, 2015 7:48:25 PM
"It's a bit more information, and it sounds like enough for some of you to go on researching. If you need any help, just ask. I'm going to take a couple days at the WLA while you do some searching.
I'll keep checking at the docks, but only a couple times a week. I think the Portmaster is getting sick of my mug, and not irritating him will probably be a good thing.
Hopefully if he hears anything more about Oyster Bay, he'll send a message my way."
Zane works with one of the specialists at the WLA. The one who teaches knots and stuff, and how to get out of them.....

Zane also politely says hello to Madame Weaver, but doesn't intrude into Katinka's conversation....

Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Wednesday August 19th, 2015 8:40:02 PM

Sesha continues with her dreams, sendings, and divinations.

There is a goal, and one she thinks she might be able to achieve ever since meeting the Dragons, but she needs the right people in place to pull it off.

Between her time with the butcher, WLA, and her own goals, she has very little to contribute to the search for Oyster bay. Still, she offers spells where needed.

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/12 
Wednesday August 19th, 2015 9:49:46 PM
Restlin slams his jewelry box closed at Beri's invitation. "Yes I would, Beri. Yes I would." With that, the young wizard rises, snatches Shiny off a nearby table & fixes the blade around his waist. One arm around Beri's shoulder, Restlin ushers him out of the tower.

"So, how are you at turning into a flying camel?" can be heard as the two exit the tower.

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Thursday August 20th, 2015 7:02:33 AM
When Zane mentions he has other business at the same time Beri mentions visiting the Druid grove, Garret pipes up, "Oh, that does sound like fun. I've never been to a Druid grove before. Are there... any rules that I should know about before we go? Like are we allowed to eat fruit from the trees there?"

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Thursday August 20th, 2015 9:53:55 AM
Bosk thanks Mara for working on his armor and looks up to see where she has his old steelgrass scythe displayed. As the others do their thing Bosk keeps trying to think of what he might need at the Catacombs, but his eyes keep returning to items and enchantments out of his price range and decides to save most of his money for another time. Perhaps before the second task.

Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Thursday August 20th, 2015 6:24:01 PM
Beri returns with Restlin.
Not good I'm afraid, I couldn't find many details on them on our last visit... remind me to ask our turtle friend if he can teach me that form.

Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 74/85 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30] 
Thursday August 20th, 2015 8:27:13 PM

Sesha sets up from her dreams, covered in sweat. Finally.

She had found him, and made the call. Now all she had to do was wait.

News- co-DM SteveK 
Thursday August 20th, 2015 10:13:29 PM
The heroes continue their individual tasks.

Bosk considers buying more things but decides to save his coin

Sesha does her own research too.

Zane is able to get some training, and also keep things cordial with the harbor master.

Garrett, Beri, and Restlin go see the High Priest of Ma'ab in Hook City, the Awakened Tortoise, Torm. The temple is the same as before; a series of grottoes that look like every possible environment. Torm meets you in a grotto that is hot and filled with tall grasses. He listens to their story, considers for a bit and then tells the group that there is a Druid named Graybeard in western Gateway Downs. "He is one of Peerimus' network, and may assist you in better locating this Oyster Bay you are seeking."

Inspector Auslander also stops by the Iron Tower with some momentous news; the restrictions to teleporting in the Southern Continent seem to be gone! "Don't know what has happened, but mages and sages have determined that teleporting between lands of the Southern Continent is possible once more".

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Thursday August 20th, 2015 10:20:55 PM
Zane greets the Inspector when he stops by the tower. He makes sure a drink is offered to him, not that he expects him to partake, but it's only polite.
He spends evenings relaxing, telling tales to his friends if they're around to listen to them. He'd heard some really strange tales in the Giggling Ghost, not sure he believes them, but they are fantastic none the less....

RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Friday August 21st, 2015 12:04:08 AM
Tink welcomes the Inspector, and is surprised by the news. Does the functional teleportation have anything to do with the party's Teucri investigations? Does it relate to the Chits? Does it relate to Oyster Bay? She gets the feeling that there are connections she just cannot see yet.

When the moment is right, Tink will present the Inspector with the gift she bought for him.

Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Friday August 21st, 2015 8:59:29 AM
Garret thanks the tortoise and says to the others, "I guess we need to go to Gateway Downs next. Does anyone know the way?"

Bosk AC: 31/15/28 (AC lowered dut to enlarge person) CMD:28 hp (100/127 Bear's Endurance) Spells 
Friday August 21st, 2015 5:55:20 PM
Bosk takes a minute to ponder this sudden ability to teleport. From what we were told the inability to teleport from region to region was tied with the lands tendency to rearrange itself. The Chaos Bell previously allowed us to pass through these unseen barriers, but we had to sacrifice that power back to the bell. Do you think this is related to our mission? If the land lost its barriers, perhaps it is also affecting its ability to change. Land masses have been known to flip upside down, burying the exposed side and revealing an all new area. That could put all of Oyster Bay in danger.

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/12  d20+18=19 ;
Friday August 21st, 2015 6:15:55 PM
Restlin shrugs. "Where the chaos bell is concerned, anything is possible. We have a lead in the western Gateway Downs. Tink and I are familiar enough with Heranmar to teleport all of us there safely. Still, the Downs are a big place. Let's see if we can find out where this Graybeard lives. Maybe he's the navigator Zane heard about. Anyone have any way of contacting Peerimus?"

Knowledge, local: 19 - nat 1 - Do I know who this Graybeard is?

Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19 
Friday August 21st, 2015 8:03:13 PM
Beri bows before the wise tortuous.
Thank you for all your help. Do you happen to know if Graybeard has any suitably large plants in his grove that we can use to travel there? I would assume most druids with an established grove have something there they can use for traveling.

Zane (JCC) AC 31, CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 149/166(178), Character 
Friday August 21st, 2015 11:12:33 PM
Zane, looking at Bosk, "I can't teleport, that magic is way beyond my meager abilities. I'm more powerful physically than I am magically. Are our friends magically powerful enough to get us there? I know taurs are hard because we are so large."

Image of Greybeards Grove - co-DM SteveK 
Friday August 21st, 2015 11:14:42 PM
Restlin doesn't know who Graybeard is, but it looks as though Torm does. The great tortoise slowly nods and gets up. "I will show you the entrance of Graybeard's Grove in a vision tomorrow. You may... Bring all your friends and be prepared for travel tomorrow. Yes, I will see you tomorrow. "

It seems that little bits of information here and there have turned into a big enough lead to do some traveling! All the heroes will need is to be ready together and see Torm.

Inspector Auslander thanks Katinka for the gift, and politely declines, just as he declines the drink by Zane. "When on duty always on duty I am afraid, and I don't want to give anyone the opportunity to say I accepted bribes. Still, your offer makes me feel very appreciated and I thank you ". Wow, the Inspector really seems to have let his hair down!



RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 24/16/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 92/109 -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility 
Sunday August 23rd, 2015 3:10:00 AM
Katinka stutters "Oh, um, I'm terribly sorry. I do hope you realise this was not intended as a bribe, and I am dreadfully sorry if it appeared as such" How could she be so foolish! No doubt in Hook City of all places there are processes and procedures for providing a gift to a city official.



Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 HP:124/124 Ki:15/15 CMD: 33] 
Monday August 24th, 2015 7:46:30 AM
Garret smiles when the Tortoise mentions that he will help them travel. "I do enjoy traveling and seeing new places."

Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +9/+6/+6 CMD: +14 HP: 105/105 (Spells) Luck Points: 3/12 
Monday August 24th, 2015 12:23:20 PM
Restlin provides some comfort to Tink. "Honestly Tink, that's kinda the way Hook City works. If you're a believer that it's the thought that counts, consider your gift a success." He peers over her shoulder at the writing set. "Still, it's a very nice set. It'd be a shame for it to go to waste..."

The morning they're supposed to go see Torm, Restlin walks down to Sesha's room and knocks on her door. "Hey lady! You've been in there for days now. I know you like to be mysterious and whatnot, but we have to go see a giant turtle about a druid."



Sesha [AC 29 /18 To/25 Fl] | HP 205/93 | CMD 19][Cat's Grace, LR 30]  d20+16=25 ; d20+16=22 ; d20+16=20 ; d20+16=34 ; d20+16=29 ; d20+16=27 ; d20+16=35 ; 15d12(2+5+10+12+10+12+7+9+11+7+3+10+3+8+3)=112
Monday August 24th, 2015 1:51:27 PM

Sesha quickly pokes her head out of her door.

"What? We get to see Torm? Great! I'll be right out."

She pops back in then comes back out a few moments later, dressed and ready to go.

She's also bundled up a bunch of potions very carefully, and starts handing them out.

"I've been working on these the last week or so. They won't last forever, but the effect does. I suggest we all go ahead and drink them now. It gives you a bit of a taste of whats it's like to be a Witch, I think."

She pauses.

"Bosk, it's made from Woldsblood. I won't be offended if you choose not to drink it."

3 weeks work window.

Step 1: WLA Training. Notated on character sheet.
Step 2: Surrender Self: Eye, Finger, Ear. Gain Divine Favor, True seeing, Cat's Grace.
Step 3: Will Saves vs DC 16 via Sprit Brew:

Sesha: Pass
Restlin: Pass
Garrett: Pass
Zane: Pass
Katinka: Pass
Beri: Pass
Bosk: Pass

Step 4: Volunteer time with butchers as per DM arrangement for Temp Hp recharge.
Step 5: Divinations and discovery of Cohort and start to gather followers. Approved by campaign DM, awaiting specific cohort, follower, and set-up approval from DM's Steve and John.
Step 6: Cauldron ritual completed.

---ooc---

WHEW!

Spirit Brew: Choose 1, though I suspect many of you will choose the latter.

Restore Spirit: Acts like a Greater Restoration Spell.

Fill Spirit: Bestows 1d12 temporary hit points per caster level. The added hit points last until used and stack with hit points gained through the Salve/Slay ability.

So basically, 15d12 hp for each of you. (Sesha can use surrender blood to raise her caster level by 2. Next time, she'll have to make the party casters part of a coven so she can boost to 20!)

I'll let you roll your own. Remember it's not healing, so no re-rolls of 1's. They last until used, so there's no point in saving it for later.

Temp Hp = 112.


Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109/130 CMD = 19  15d12=107 ;
Monday August 24th, 2015 8:17:38 PM
Berithian bows before his turtle brother.
Thank you so much Torm. I can't begin to tell you how much this means to us, and for those we are seeking. I'll tell the others right away.

At the castle Beri fills in the others about what they learned with the druid Torm over a round of drinks from Sesha
Thank you so much Sesha, I haven't felt this good in ages. So, in short we are going to travel via plant tomorrow to visit a Druid named Graybeard in western Gateway Downs. I can only take 5 medium people with me per trip, and unfortunately our larger party members are twice as difficult to take, so I'll need to prepare three copies of the spell tomorrow so I can take as many as I can, return, and take the remainder with us. Unless someone has another way to follow.
(temp hp = 107)

Beriothian -- AC:23/16/21 HP: 109 (+107 temp)/130 CMD = 19 
Monday August 24th, 2015 8:18:33 PM
Berithian bows before his turtle brother.
Thank you so much Torm. I can't begin to tell you how much this means to us, and for those we are seeking. I'll tell the others right away.

At the castle Beri fills in the others about what they learned with the druid Torm over a round of drinks from Sesha
Thank you so much Sesha, I haven't felt this good in ages. So, in short we are going to travel via plant tomorrow to visit a Druid named Graybeard in western Gateway Downs. I can only take 5 medium people with me per trip, and unfortunately our larger party members are twice as difficult to take, so I'll need to prepare three copies of the spell tomorrow so I can take as many as I can, return, and take the remainder with us. Unless someone has another way to follow.
(temp hp = 107)
ooc: accidentally bumped the check box and made this a private post before... roll is in private post

Image of Greybeards Grove - co-DM SteveK  d100=15 ; d100=72 ; d100=93 ; d100=61 ; d100=57 ; d100=2 ; d100=100 ;
Monday August 24th, 2015 9:34:51 PM
Inspector Auslander assures Katinka that he knew her intentions were good.

Sesha learns that the Woldsblood is a hazardous place. Of the seven days of Spirit Brew that the BloodWitch attempts, she can only successfully complete four. The other three spells were ruined by Sesha having to interrupt her own spell in order to defend herself from the dangers of the Realm of Shadows! (Note: please identify which four get the potions)

Sesha's other preparations all work as planned, even with the rock in one hand.

Beriothian, Restlin, Sesha, and Garrett are all ready to go see Torm. Since that is a clear majority, they bustle Bosk, Zane, and Katinka along with them. And soon they are standing with the Awakened Tortoise, Torm.

Torm casts his scrying spell, and the heroes are able to see the entrance to Graybeard's Druid grove. There is a mighty oak that shades a statue. Beriothian casts his Transport via Plant spell (three times) and the heroes are ... Elsewhere!

........

EACH HERO GETS 4750 XP!

Beriothian gets a HERO POINT for successfully finding a way to transport the team to the adventure!

.........

Co DM JonT will take over tomorrow!

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