Your Warehouse (DM Cayzle) Monday March 7th, 2016 10:15:05 PM
As the business leaders lingle with youo to shake hands and offer best wishes, Martisan tells her own stry and puts in a good word for Jaspar. She does not know why Eleazar acted as he did.
Pesmer’s tone and words only build good will with the party’s patrons.
Zanderallen mingles in similar fashion, and as he introduces himself, it is clear that several of the business leaders are quite glad to have a paladin on board.
After the meeting, Micah wants to talk about the warehouse and how to best use it. [OOC: I’ll give you full maps of the warehouse as soon as my laptop is back from the shop.]
Keen-minded Stohp recalls the original treasure offered … even with the free board and the warehouse lease, she is not sure that the original deal was not better. She reserves judgement for now — but does she share her misgivings with her friends?
It occurs to her that depending on how much they buy, the discount at Haights may make up some of the difference.
Norr, a taur of few words, nonetheless communicates his feelings clearly, then draws his friends together to chat.
Introspective Micah thinks about how the world moves on, and how he has found such a group as this one to join.
===== ===== =====
Over the next few weeks, the party settles into the warehouse. Do you keep it looking as a warehouse? Do you add sigul or signage? How are you arranging it? [OOC: Maps to come, as I was saying.]
Now is also the time to visit the Sages Guild, or indeed any other organization in which you are interested. [OOC: Let me know if you want to be approached or invited to join any group. Or any other business you prefer.]
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 14/15 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Tuesday March 8th, 2016 12:33:09 AM
Agrippa is still in shock from the generosity of both her party, the Silver... Something, and the business owners. She keeps a thumb on the hilt of her new rapier, hoping to have a different fate then that of its previous owner.
Although she would prefer the 250g in everyone's pockets, having a place that not many know about with unique access to the underground is quite valuable, especially if we're potentially waging a subtle war with the richest persons upstairs. Agrippa trusts the will of her new friends, and shakes all of their hands as they stand.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 14/14 AC:12/12/10 Tuesday March 8th, 2016 4:06:02 AM "I vote we call ourselves.. The Silver Somethings. For some reason it has a nice ring to it.. We are making a name for ourselves.. For the Fence.. We are making something of ourselves in a place that is often overlooked. The Silver Somethings sounds.. Poetic."
Pesmer throws his vote in for the name but will not argue with the group if they come up with something different.
Over the next few weeks, Pesmer will back to the Star Mages guild to put in his application to join. He will try and join in as a Tier 1 Journeyman (Requirement of being Caster Level 2 which Pesmer is) and will happily pay the cumulative cost of 175 GP.
Note to DM- Where do I pay Guild fees at?
(Questions on loot. I looked over your treasury list, Zachary, and I wasn't sure if we had split up the gold loot we had acquired as of yet. It says we gained 1500 GP in just pure coin. If we split that up we each get, I think, 214 GP and some silver and copper. Have we done this yet? Pesmer has bills he needs to pay. :P )
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 18/18 AC: 15/12/12 CMB: +5 Tuesday March 8th, 2016 10:00:21 PM
The next day Stohp tracks down what happened to Koh. Happy remembers that a messenger came for her while we where down in the sewers and she ran off, and Grokk can tell her that a small group from the Temple of Domi came to pick up all her things. She finally tracks Koh down there, and after a long wait her sister emerges to explain her sudden disappearance.
It seems that an old master monk's health has deteriorated to the point where everyday tasks tire him. After much deliberation, he choose Koh to be his new apprentice, teaching her the fighting arts in exchange for her services in helping with cooking and cleaning chores. The messenger had been looking for her all day, and she had to reply immediately or miss this extraordinary opportunity to improve her skills. To do the job properly requires that she move in and remain secluded with the master, so they won't be able to see each other much. In their native tongue Koh is much more elegant than in common, telling her sister, "I know I was more eager to be an adventurer than you, but I cannot pass this up. Carry on the torch for me Stohp."
The pair separate, slightly tearfully, and Koh tramps back to the master's rooms, promising letters and messages to keep in touch.
Your Warehouse (DM Cayzle) Tuesday March 8th, 2016 10:09:40 PM
[OOC: Sorry to post before 24 hours have elapsed since my last post, and with only a few players weighing in, but with my laptop in the shop, I gotta take my chances to post when I have them!]
Agrippa ponders the change in situation that the party has experienced, and on the whole seems pleased.
Stohp track down her sister and finds out that her monkish obligations are keeping her from the adventuring life, for now.
Pesmer proposes that the group name itself "The Silver Somethings"!
He heads to the Sage's Guild on the monthly day of testing. There are four candidates taking the test -- the other three are all apprentice researchers who have served in the guild. After asking your name and academic qualifications, the clerk at the guild asks Pesmer for the name of the Chamber of the Guild to which he is applying. Pesmer is told that there will be two exams, one written, and if he passes that, then an oral exam.
In his role as party treasurer, Zanderallen realizes that he has missed some treasure ...
On Sept 17, two masterwork medium longswords.
On Oct 7, you spent 7 gp on your party registration fee. You gain a scroll (nonmagic) recognizing you as a group of adventurers (Name TBD).
On Nov. 27, the alchemist gave you a wand of Reduce Person with 23 charges left and four potions of Hide From Animals. You subsequently used 8 charges, so there are 15 left.
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 14/15 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Tuesday March 8th, 2016 10:22:53 PM
Agrippa will take some time attempting to clean up the warehouse. She'll attempt to bleach the rat smell from every corner, as she becomes somewhat sensitive to that smell after a while. Observing the entrance into the sewer, she understands that the lever closing the portcullis should would be more advantageous inside the warehouse, not in the sewer. She'll also study up on possibly adding a small pipe from the inner warehouse to the sewers to communicate, in case someone is stuck in there for whatever reason.
Agrippa will pretend that fixing the warehouse is her day job for a while, but she will return to her mother every night. She hopes that the preparations the group is making will give her an advantage in trying to find her father.
Micah (John) HP: 16/16 AC: 17/10/17 Tuesday March 8th, 2016 10:36:33 PM
Micah throws in with Agrippa in cleaning up the warehouse. As part of their efforts he will try to bring order to anything else in the building that they have not already claimed or dealt with.
The simple, honest work is refreshing and unless he notices Agrippa's annoyance, he will pass much of the time pleasantly humming as he labors. When they take breaks together, he will make a point to learn more about her. He is warm and accepting and willing to let her set the pace of any conversation.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 23/23 AC: 19 T: 11 FF: 18 Party Treasury Wednesday March 9th, 2016 12:15:58 AM
Zanderallen reports back to the church of Domi seeking official blessing to joining the adventuring group. He isn't worried about it with the work the group has already done but he doesn't feel right pledging himself to any cause without a blessing. He feels strongly their is a right way to do things.
After that he will spend several hours in prayer and meditation thanking Domi for his rescue from the hands of his captors. While it would be very hard to tell from his outside actions his capture and experience shook his feeling of invincibility, probably making him a wiser paladin he reasons at the end of his prayers.
The next day he will join his companions at the warehouse and lend a hand however he can. Zander is beginning to think of this warehouse as their stronghold and castle and seeks for weak spots or places where improvements can be made. He catches up with Brother Micah when the job allows and is open and friendly to Agrippa, for he respects the courage she showed in the warehouse.
As long as no one else opposed he will move his meager possessions into the warehouse, once a spot has been cleaned enough for sleeping quarters, and take up residence at the warehouse. Although the first night he spends there he can't help but keep getting up and looking for rats.
Martisan Odenthorp (Damarr) HP: 15/15 | AC: 18 | T:14 | FF:15 Wednesday March 9th, 2016 4:30:46 AM
Martisan joins the others in clearing out the remains of Eleazar's presence from the warehouse. The Halfling moves in the very same night after the meeting with the business leaders, her own small backpack (with everything she owns) taking up a single well-swept corner.
It becomes more and more evident over the next few days that Martisan did not previously have a consistent home herself. Although she doesn't say anything about it, if she's asked she glosses over how she most often bartered her skills for lodging with the poor folk on the Fence, and just more recently stayed at the Fatted Calf with some of the others.
As the group slowly settles in, Martisan spends most of her time in the early days split between Pesmer and Zanderallen. She takes comfort in the latter's sense of order, matching her own equally structured (albeit more light-hearted) meticulousness. With Pesmer, she revels in their shared curiosity over the mysteries of the arcane, bugging the wizard for his learned insights every chance she gets.
Taking most of her own share of the divided gold (250gp from treasury), Martisan runs a few errands around the Float. She first approaches the Sage's Guild, but is dismayed to hear about the exams. "I can read and write just fine, but I never learned about magic or adventuring or anything like that out of a book. At least, nothing except the common laws here in the Float." She tells the clerk, vowing that she'll be back after studying some more.
With her pockets heavy, Martisan makes her way to Harry Haight's. She greets the merchant warmly, pulls the whip off her hip, and places it on the counter. "I'm looking for another whip like this one, hopefully something a little better put together - you can see strips of leather just starting to fray at the end here."
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 14/14 AC:12/12/10 Wednesday March 9th, 2016 6:14:00 AM
Pesmer spends a bit of time with Martisan and any and all who wish to share his company, though he found Martisan's thrust for knowledge matching his own. "I will gladly share what I can with you, friend, and I look forward to seeing if magic burns within your heart. Or maybe its just heartburn.. Hehe.." He teases his friend as the two spend time together.
Pesmer smiles as he speaks to the clerk at the guild. "I am looking to join the Transmutation Chamber of the guild as a Tier 1 Journeyman. I will gladly take any written or verbal test to show that I belong in this Guild." He practically beams with confidence and pride as he was finally at the door steps to the beginnings of his dream. He knew this guild would be the way for him to master his art. "I will do all I have to do join The Star Mages Guild and I will become a great Transmutation Wizard." He says proudly to the Clerk, though he was probably just going over the top now.
Having the 250 Gold from his share of the pot, Pesmer was ready to pay the guild fee the moment he passed his testings.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 23/23 AC: 19 T: 11 FF: 18 Party Treasury d20+8=27 ; Wednesday March 9th, 2016 8:52:22 PM
Zanderallen finishes settling in at the warehouse, "We really need a name for our warehouse. But I probably shouldn't mention that until we fully settle on a group name." he thinks to himself.
Later that day Zanderallen seeks out the others, "I plan to seek out the Woldian League of Adventurers chapterhouse and seek to join them. Does anyone wish to join me?"
Zanderallen will seek out the WLA chapterhouse with anyone who is interesting. He will ask around to find the chapter house and seek to join them. (Diplomacy 27 to find them and get in.)
Micah (John) HP: 16/16 AC: 17/10/17 d20+7=23 ; Wednesday March 9th, 2016 9:40:04 PM
Micah was not familiar with the Woldian League of Adventurers, but after hearing Zanderallen speak of them, he decides they are worth investigation. Taking a break from the cleaning and clearing of the warehouse, he accompanies him in search of the chapter house. Perfectly content to let him take the lead, he will support his efforts to gain entrance. (Diplomacy >10 to Aid Another)
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 14/14 AC:12/12/10 Wednesday March 9th, 2016 10:41:09 PM
Blinking a bit, Pesmer realizes he went to the completely wrong guild.. The Sage's Guild. Sighing and feeling embarrassed after making such a prideful speech, Pesmer will pull out the Rat books he wanted the Sages guild to look over. "I was told the Sage's Guild might be interested in purchasing these novels which dwell extensively on Rat lore." He happily lets the clerk look over the books and is hopeful he will get a good price for them. Once he sells the books, Pesmer makes his way over to the Star Mages guild.
Huffing and puffing, he enters the Guild and finds the nearest clerk who can help him. "Is this.. The Star Mages guild? I was looking to enroll my application into your most prestigious Guild. My name is Pesmer Zerase, Transmutation Wizard. I wish to enroll in the Transmutation Chamber of this guild as a Tier 1 Journeyman." If this is the right clerk, he will give his information to the person and attempt to fully enroll within the Guild. "I will do all I have to do, be it verbal testing, written Quiz's or lecture halls, if that is what it takes to join the Star Mages Guild." His speech this time is a bit less prideful as he was still embarrassed about going to the wrong guild before.
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 14/15 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Wednesday March 9th, 2016 11:15:45 PM
Agrippa agrees to investigate the Woldian League of Adventuring as well. She wonders if that is more of an established place one becomes known, as opposed to "registration".
Your Warehouse (DM Cayzle) Thursday March 10th, 2016 12:08:32 AM
Agrippa and Micah take the time to make the warehouse livable, clean, and comfy.
Zanderallen meets with his spiritual mentor at the Church of Domi, a Brother Faranc. In his shaky voice, he reminds Zander that while only some are called to the vocation of adventurer, in fact that was the path taken by Lord Domi himself when he was a mortal. He offers his blessing and urges the young paladin to work at guarding well those in his care who are weaker than he is.
At the warehouse, Zanderallen notes that there are but two doors in and out of the building, but that there are also the windows on the upper floor that overlook the lake. Those are the weak points. He also notes that there is no easy way onto the roof.
At the warehouse, he brings up the idea of naming the place. He also declares his intent to join the Woldian League of Adventurers, and asks who else is interested. First to speak up is Agrippa.
At the Sage's Guild the clerk there explains to Martisan -- with an air of great boredom -- that the exams are very difficult and that you can only try three times. "Probably a little girl like you would never get a pass. Though I could tutor you if you like. For a price." [OOC: You have to pass two DC20 skill checks to enter the Guild.]
At Haight's, Harry is willing to order Martisan a whip sized to fit her needs. Does she want it to be a master-class weapon?
Also at the Sage's Guild, one sage hears about the rat books and is eager to buy from Pesmer. "Oh, this IS interesting," says a Chamber of Experimental Magic researcher. "I use rats in my experiments, and this will be invaluable. 300 gold for the lot!" He also asks if you have any rats.
Later, Pesmer seeks out the Star Mages. They are based, it turns out, at the center of the Open Air level, where they maintain the teleportal that serves as the major umbilical connecting the Float to the civilized world. At the Floating City Chapter House, he learns that there is no test so long as you can cast an arcane spell and can pay your member fee. However, you do have annual duties to teach three classes and contribute a report to the Guild on a relevant topic.
===== ===== =====
As you know, the three major taverns of the Fence Level -- The Giggling Ghost, The Fatted Calf, and The Brass Toad -- are sharing the expense of feeding you. The way this works is that over a 20 day month, you get seven free boarding passes for each establishment. You use one pass each day.
Well, eating at the Giggling Ghost is always a fine experience. Adventurers from all over the Wold wander in through the magic fireplaces, and grand adventures take place within the magical tapestries. Meals there are adventures in their own right, what with the ghost, the remarkable servers, and the demon chef. If anything, you feel young and inexperienced here.
The Fatted Calf is darker, larger and roomier -- it gives taurs a place to relax without being hemmed in, and that gives it a calm vibe. No one bothers anyone else, which is a blessing considering that in some places taurs are bitter enemies. This is a relaxing place to eat, in privacy.
At the Brass Toad, as soon as you arrive, a semi-talented minstrel -- Brassy's niece, actually -- steps out into the street and starts playing. Brassy shows you to the "best" table, located in the center of the dining floor, surrounded, with some breathing space, by the other tables lining the walls. The minstrel sings about you all, naming names, telling about your adventures, praising you as the new heroes of the Fence.
Any night you eat at Brassy's place, the common room fills up with gawkers and lookie-loos ... although, on the whole, you cannot help but note that the people seem happy that you are there, and they often toast to you as you eat your meal. Sometimes people come up to you cautiously to tell you they are grateful for your good work. They heard about those rats and that crazy fellow, and they know you risked disease and worse to protect the neighborhood. There are many comparisons between yourselves and the city guard, in which you all come off much the better.
After one such dinner, a warrior approaches the table and asks to speak with you. [OOC: That's the cue for our newest and eighth player to introduce himself.]
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 18/18 AC: 15/12/12 CMB: +5 Thursday March 10th, 2016 2:21:06 AM
Stohp, wrapped up in her own plans and worries, doesn't meet up with the rest of the party much for the next week. She spends her time sleeping in the Fatted Calf, mostly eating there, and occasionally seeing the others when/if they decide to eat at the calf. The following Tuesday she goes to her appointment to join the WLA, presumably beating the rest of the party to the punch.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 18/18 AC: 15/12/12 CMB: +5 Thursday March 10th, 2016 2:30:06 AM
Nor spends the next few days helping the others out with any heaving lifting that needs to be done while cleaning out/fixing up the warehouse base.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 14/14 AC:12/12/10 Thursday March 10th, 2016 6:11:14 AM
Pesmer blinks a few times as a sage offers 300 Gold for the books and asks if he has any rats. "Hmm.. Um.. Well.. I don't think we have the rats anymore, sadly, but I will gladly accept your offer of 300 Gold." Pesmer smiles and exchanges the books for the gold and goes on about his way.
At the Star Mages guild, Pesmer nods to the clerk. "I will gladly attend to these annual duties and I can cast magics." Pesmer will demonstrate by casting the shield spell upon himself, hoping that should work. He will also gladly pay the 175 in membership fees as he wishes to skip the first Tier of 0 and go right to Tier 1, which requires Pesmer to be level 2, which he is. (I mark this on my character sheet that I have paid the dues, yes? Is there anything else I need to do, Mr. DM Cayzle?)
At the Brassy Toad with everyone else enjoying drinks and the like, Pesmer is surprised so many people are thanking them for the services they did within the Fence. He was used to people ignoring the lot of them so all of this attention was.. beyond words. Shaking hands and raising glasses, he would notice a warrior approaching the table to speak with the group.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 14/14 AC:12/12/10 Thursday March 10th, 2016 6:13:42 AM
Pesmer will also hand over the 300 gold he got from the selling of the books so the party can divide it up equally, of course. He pockets his share of the wealth and smiles, having more gold now then he has had his entire life.
K (Carl) HP: 20 AC:17/14/13 CMD:18 Thursday March 10th, 2016 10:57:46 AM
"Well K, there they are," the lone paladin mumbles to himself. "Time to go make friends."
A human male in his early 20's...maybe late teens, hard to say, clears his throat as the adventurers he's heard about lately count their coin. He obviously doesn't make a lot of effort to fancy himself up. He wears a simple set of studded leather armor, though notably the symbol of Flower, goddess of love, is branded into the chest. A rather fancy bow is strung across his back, and a much less assuming rapier sits on his hip.
Even though he doesn't appear too fancy, he is strikingly handsome. His hair is brown and messy, but in that good kind of messy, not the slovenly kind of messy. His eyes are a vivid green. He looks more nimble than strong, but is still rather well defined.
"Sorry to bother you," he starts. His voice is deep, but not not gravely. "Name's K. Well, that's what I go by anyway. I serve Flower, though lately I don't feel I've been doing quite enough, what with my whole solo gig. You folks have made a name for yourself around here. I was wondering if my bow and I could come join you."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 23/23 AC: 19 T: 11 FF: 18 Party Treasury Thursday March 10th, 2016 2:04:33 PM
As Pesmer puts the last of the gold from the book on the table Zanderallen finishes counting the rest and handing out shares. "After selling the last of the gear and petting aside our agreed upon 10% into a common fund we should all receive 340 gold pieces and 7 silver pieces. Agrippa if you would double check the division, you seem to have a good grasp on coins and trade."
Wow that's a lot of gold Zander thinks to himself. Maybe I'll make some improvements to the warehouse or get Norr a sword, shame those long swords we found were a bit small for him.
As he sees the newcomer approaching the table Zander takes a moment to study him as he walks up and introduces himself. At first glance, a ranger come to join us? No, he bears Flower's symbol like a badge, and that aura about him. He said he serves Flower, he must be a paladin. And he uses a bow. I've seen followers of Flower, and they're good people, but out fighting evil with a bow?
Regardless, Zanderallen stands to welcome the newcomer. Also in his early twenties, wearing chain mail and a tunic emblazoned with Domi's symbol, a dependable long sword at his side, and a generally well kept appearance augmenting his natural good looks, Zander senses a potential rival in this newcomer, better try and make it a friendly one. "Well met K. My name is Zanderallen. If you are willing to battle evil and protect the innocent then I for one welcome you to join the Silver Shield.", Zander says with a warm smile and extended hand. Having heard none of his companions object to the name Zander decides he'll just start using it in hopes it will catch on.
Martisan Odenthorp (Damarr) HP: 15/15 | AC: 18 | T:14 | FF:15 d20+10=27 ; Thursday March 10th, 2016 5:03:32 PM
Back at the Sages' Guild, Martisan waves off the clerk's offered tutoring. "You heard him." She jerks her head toward Pesmer as he slinks away, hands placed defiantly on her hips as she stares up at the bored attendant. "I'm here with Pesmer the Great Transmutation Wizard! He'd pass your exams and take your job if it wasn't a waste of his time. His heartburn's with magic - a much better teacher!" The Halfling storms off after her friend, pausing to call back, "I'll be back to pass your tests later!"
Martisan tells Harry to get the best quality whip possible, thanking the merchant for his help and generosity.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
After Pesmer hands over the remaining gold to be distributed and Zanderallen finishes the tally, Martisan reluctantly takes the remainder of her share. "I've got an order in with Haight for a new whip, that'll be a good 270gp at least." She shrugs, grabbing a small turkey leg from a nearby platter, a tiny club in her hands. "Whatever's left from that could probably be put to good use fixing up the ole' 'HQ'. I'd like to get a training room somewhere in there." She swings the turkey leg about, as if fighting an imaginary enemy, to the delight of the small group of children that often trailed the Halfling like a shadow.
Turning to the newcomer, Martisan eyes him appraisingly (Sense Motive 27, DC 20 to get a feel for a person/situation, or opposed by Charisma/Bluff). Standing atop a stool herself, not quite eye level with the others, she leans closer to 'K', squinting with a mock scowl, "Hmm, right, well.... I suppose we could let you tag along for a bit, see if you're as useful as you are decorative." She gives the man a wink before settling back with her turkey leg. "I'm Martisan; and I'll add the necessity that you uphold truth and justice, to our friend Zander's requirements."
K (Carl) HP: 20 AC:17/14/13 CMD:18 Thursday March 10th, 2016 9:15:38 PM
K nods. "Battle evil. Check. Protect innocent. Check." The paladin takes a seat before calling for a drink. "Never been much of an adventurer, really. Plenty of bad folk round the Fence to keep me busy, but it's getting old.
He leans back in his chair as his drink, mead for the curious, is delivered. "Silver Shield, you say? Hadn't heard you folks had named your group. I like it." He holds up his glass. "Here's to making a difference in this place."
For those trying to get a sense of him, K doesn't seem to have a duplicitous bone in his body.
Micah (John) HP: 16/16 AC: 17/10/17 Thursday March 10th, 2016 9:57:32 PM
After the first evening of attention at the Brass Toad, Micah dreads each future visit there. Given the central location of the table it is difficult to remain inconspicuous, but he tries nonetheless. He graciously accepts any praise, not wishing to offend the praising party. He will gently, but firmly accept no comparison that paints them as superior to the guard. He is quick to point out that those men and women do much more than take care of a sudden vermin problem and have been doing so as long as anyone can remember.
Micah appraises the newcomer. An archer could be useful, he thinks to himself. I wonder what he means by serving Flower. Is it a matter of conviction or vocation?
He winces as Zanderallen offers him admission to the group, thinking the offer and the assigning of the name a bit premature. Martisan and the paladin were accepted into the group in what could be considered "battlefield commissions", one having joined in the middle of the sewer pursuit; the other having done at the onset of the final battle. This stranger, however, makes his approach after the group is receiving the praise and adoration of the community members as well as some significant income.
Micah rises slowly and addresses him, "Perhaps I should clarify: Zanderallen is suggesting you join us in our efforts to keep the Fence safe; actual membership in our group is something that would have to be decided by us as a group."
Extending his hand with a genuine smile, he continues, "With that clarification I, too, welcome you. The name is Micah Smith, a servant of Domi. Please join us and tell us more about yourself." He gestures to the servers to bring settings and a chair. Having just established that K is not yet one of "the Silver Shield", later on he discretely makes arrangement with the host to pay for K's meal from Micah's purse.
Your Warehouse (DM Cayzle) Thursday March 10th, 2016 10:11:37 PM
Stohp finds that the WLA chapterhouse in the Float is located on the Gold Level, off Gold Lane.
[OOC: Is anyone else interested in the WLA -- it would be easier to RP all applicants at once.]
=====
At the Star Mages, Pesmer is just about set, except for the matter of the Rules. He has to agree to abide by the strictures of the Star Mages, to wit:
Never perform a spell casting service to the public for free. If you are an adventuring member, you may cast spells upon your followers and party associates, as it increases your chances of survival.
Never share knowledge of any spell with anyone other than fellow Star Mages.
Do not act as an official representative of the Star Mage Guild unless specifically given permission to do so by the guild, and only within the confines of that permission.
Does Pesmer agree?
=====
Zanderallen makes the newcomer feel welcome. And subtly pushes the group name he prefers.
Simply known as "K", the newest member of the group impresses with his honesty and lack of ceremony.
Martsan has a hunch that K has nothing to hide. She explains the group ethos to the newcomer.
Micah also has friendly words for K, but there is a slight reserve there as well.
=====
Quiet but capable, Norr slips away, not wanting to fuss. Later, a note makes his excellent reasons clear, as well as the hope for a reunion some day in the future. You may be sorry to see him go, but you understand that sometimes the Wold moves on.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 18/18 AC: 15/12/12 CMB: +5 Friday March 11th, 2016 12:03:16 AM
Stohp is less than impressed at Brassy's "best seat in the house". He's clearly using the party to increase his business, and if it was up to her she'd ignore him and move the whole party to a different table. She would have loved this as a teenager and basked in the attention; she dreamed of being a respected warrior then. Older and far more cynical now, she ignores the crowd instead of basking in the attention.
When K approaches and Zanderallen greets him so openly Stohp grunts in disapproval. The last thing they need is to start inviting every 2 bit glory chaser to join them; if their really is a new thieves guild out there the group has to be careful of spies. "Make your case, warrior of Flower. Why should we accept you into our number?"
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 14/14 AC:12/12/10 Friday March 11th, 2016 1:15:47 AM
Pesmer couldn't help but chuckle as he watches Martisan tell the Clerk off with her speech, finding her stubborn pride rather enduring. "You sure told that poor Clerk off, Martisan. I fear for him when you do indeed return to pass his tests with flying colors." He grins down at his friend as they walk out of the building together.
Back at the Star Mage's Guild, not only does Pesmer nod with agreement, but he will also recite the vows and pledge that was just told to him.
"I will never perform a spell casting service to the public for free. I may cast spells upon my followers and party associates, as it increases my chances of survival."
"I will never share knowledge of any spell with anyone other than fellow Star Mage's."
"I will not act as an official representative of the Star Mage's Guild unless specifically given permission to do so by the guild, and only within the confines of that permission."
He says each word carefully and with as much pride and honor as he can sum up, wishing to show just how serious and dedicated he was to joining the Star Mage's Guild.
Back at the Inn with the rest of the group, Pesmer will happily take his share of the gold and hold it close, rather amusement at how much gold he has acquired, even if he had to spend half of it just on Membership fee's alone...
Watching over this curious human male who asked to join them in their guard, Pesmer notices how quick Zanderallen is to let the male join their ranks. Listening to what Martisan, Micah and Stohp have to say first, the wizard would stand and shake the males hand as he greets him like the rest. "A pleasure to meet you, K. The name is Pesmer. While I appreciate Zanderallen's acceptance of you, I must agree with the others that we cannot simply let you in until we get to know you a bit. A hasty alliance could lead to disaster. That said.. I do like that you use a bow. We need more people blasting from the back.. Too many of us run face first into the enemy. " He teases and laughs, rubbing the bite mark upon his shoulder that his dear old friend Rooger had left for him. A memento. No one can say Pesmer didn't bleed to get their new hideout, heh..
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 14/15 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+6=17 ; d20+6=10 ; Friday March 11th, 2016 5:50:13 AM
(Ooc: I mailed my calculations of the dividends. We'll need to confirm.)
[At the Bar] Agrippa is a bit timid in Brassy's bar. She would prefer a place that is more accommodating than it is boasting. Judging by the looks that the Taurs had when walking in, she can guess they had a different preference as well (Sense Motive: 17). But Agrippa is determined to make the best of her complementary meals. Sitting down, she attempts to converse with the hard-to-seat. "I hope they got some good garlic 'n here. 'Scuse me, sir?" she directs at a waiter. "Garlic 'n mashed 'taters please." Can't say no to a free meal~
When Zander spoke of her share of the pot, she started running the numbers in her head to see if everything sounds right.
As the human walked up to the table, announcing himself as, "K", Agrippa will grow somewhat nervous. Zander and Martisan only add to this when they accept him without hesitation. But her hope remains as Micah and Stohp speak up. During these conversations, she has trouble getting a hunch at whether or not this man has good intentions (Sense Motive: 10). Her ears will visibly perk around her cloak as Stohp requests "K" to, "...make his case." Even though he's easy on the eyes, she'll keep them on her food for now.
[Beginning to head to the Woldian League of Adventurers] "Yeah, I'm interested. Anyone else comin'?
K (Carl) HP: 20 AC:17/14/13 CMD:18 Friday March 11th, 2016 10:07:51 AM
K listens, and nods along. "Never assumed I had officially joined you. Just complimented the name." He takes a long pull of his drink before setting it down before him. He sits forward in his chair & tells his story.
"I serve Flower. I don't serve her because my abilities line up with her sphere of influence, I serve her because I believe in her message and what she stands for." He picks his drink back up. "People do get a bit confused about the whole 'holy warrior of love' thing, but I've seen good, peaceful folk take up arms to protect the ones they love, even when they didn't know which end goes in the bad guy." He finishes his drink in one pull before setting the glass down.
"There's where I come in. I'm pretty good with this bow. I'm not bad with the rapier here either, but it's not my first choice of weapon. Sometimes ensuring love can grow involves doing battle with that which threatens it. It's a thin line I walk, and one I'm still figuring out if we're being honest, but this is what I've chosen for myself.
"Anyway, if you'll let me tag along for a while, I'm confident you'll see my intentions and abilities are on par with what yours." He points at Micah and Zanderallen. "Besides, I'm pretty sure both of you would know if I had evil in my heart. Thought about serving Domi myself for a while, but it just didn't feel like the right choice."
Martisan Odenthorp (Damarr) HP: 15/15 | AC: 18 | T:14 | FF:15 Friday March 11th, 2016 3:50:16 PM
Satisfied with K's story, Martisan nods and regards her companions, glad to see them cautious with the group's newfound fame.
For the lad to even suggest he might join us shows he's confident, and at least passingly competent. Sounds like his head's in the right place too - I doubt it takes long before the others warm up to him, if he is as he says and appears to be.
"Worst case scenario, I'm sure you'd make a pretty addition to our new base." She teases the young, ambitious bowman. Content with the mysterious paladin's vow, Martisan turns back to the children she was previously entertaining with a snippet of the group's sewer adventures.
~~~~~
Martisan will return to Harry Haight's as soon as her small, expertly-crafted whip is ready. [OOC: Let me know the final cost, Cayzle. Should be 270gp 9sp for masterwork, with our discount and a base 1gp for a whip.]
She will also ask the merchant about training tools, specifically looking for an assortment of combat dummies and archery targets. "I've got some new fighting techniques I've been working on, but I need some new equipment to take my training to the next level." She tells Harry with a small measure of pride, "I know you've had fair dealings with the group since before I joined, so I thought I'd come to you for a quote on those materials before checking with the other merchants."
With that concluding all of Martisan's current business, the Halfling will spend her time split between organizing the warehouse and trolling the inns and marketplace for information, waiting for her orders to come in with Harry while keeping an ear out for any odd news that the group could investigate.
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 14/15 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Friday March 11th, 2016 9:52:14 PM
Agrippa finishes crunching the numbers. She sits next to Zander to have a more private conversation, but doesn't make much effort to lower her voice in case someone is curious. "Apparently rat-like jewelry don' sell very well 'roun' here any more, Zander. We only got 200g instead of 400g from tha' transaction. So..." She moves her abacus studs around. "I came up with 310g 8s 9c per person, with a petty cash pot o' 241g 8s." She blinks and the hair on her arms starts to stand on end. "...Tha's a lot o' coins to rub together."
When Martisan speaks of the "base," Agrippa is reminded to ask the party. "So we deducted 10% from everyone's share for a 'party' fund. I jus' wanna make sure if we intend to use some o' it to touch up the warehouse. Soun' good?"
When K makes mention of his servitude to Flower, she relaxes a little bit. She'll trust the instincts of those who have kept her skin from scarring after battle using Domi's healing. Her old merchant trainer also had good words to say about Flower's effects on commerce. She'll sum up her courage and introduce herself. She stands up and turns to him. "Agrippa Fairgew," courtesy, "Well met, Kay." She'll shake his hand if he appears to offer one, and then walk back to her plate of garlic mashed potatoes.
Your Warehouse (DM Cayzle) Saturday March 12th, 2016 9:22:57 AM
Pesmer joins the Star Mages with the enthusiasm of youth! Several nearby members offer congratulations.
=====
The party greets K with diverse levels of welcome. K responds forthrightfully
Stohp sees that Brassy is using the party to attract custom. Then again, by boosting the fame of the Silver Shield, Brassy may be helping you as well. Look! Already your growing fame has attracted a new recruit.
Agrippa tells Micah and Zanderallen that she will join the WLA with them. Anyone else?
=====
Martisan spends 270 gp on a new small-size masterwork whip.
=====
Coming Monday AM -- WLA membership and Warehouse Floorplans!
Martisan Odenthorp (Damarr) HP: 15/15 | AC: 18 | T:14 | FF:15 Sunday March 13th, 2016 3:39:15 PM
Martisan quietly addresses Agrippa's question on warehouse modifications; "Depending on the details, this might be a conversation better had in private." She says with a glance to the festivities going on around them. "Since you brought it up, my first concern, after a nice table and a few chairs, is a decent practice room. Some place to keep ourselves sharp and work on new moves in between adventures. A nice office, or meeting room, should suffice for handling official business; planning our next moves, meeting with guests, compiling information on possible adventures and all that."
"Also, I think we should clear out that debris underneath the sewer entrance. We can set up a better system for coming and going down there than an old pile of crates, and make it harder for folks to stumble on our back door the way we did. Maybe a hidden rope ladder, with a keyed locking mechanism that can be opened and closed from outside, in addition to the gate lever that's there now."
"I certainly wouldn't be opposed to a starting our own library, either, if we have the funds and the space." Shrugging, Martisan pats a pouch on her belt; the coins inside clink lightly together. "I'm willing to put at least fifty of the sixty gold pieces I have left from my share toward the improvements."
Micah (John) HP: 16/16 AC: 17/10/17 Sunday March 13th, 2016 10:46:56 PM Time and actions will tell, thinks Micah as he listens to K explain himself. He is willing to give him a chance.
Once he, Agrippa, and Zanderallen make plans to pursue WLA. "It seems we have a name, it is time to register it. Are there any objections to us," he asks with a gesture to include Agrippa and Zanderallen, "taking care of this detail while we go to the League office?"
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 14/14 AC:12/12/10 Sunday March 13th, 2016 11:35:29 PM
Pesmer smiles and shakes hands with nearby members, thanking everyone for their kind words.
Being with the rest of the party drinking at the inn, everyone could see Pesmer wearing a silver star brooch upon his cloak, it shinning brightly just as the prideful grin upon his face. He was now an official member of The Star Mage's guild, a guild that would bring him ultimate power! Or at the very least some arcane help and a few new spells.
"I am very okay with Martisan and you others using the group gold as you all see fit to fix up our place. I trust you all in this endeavor. I would agree with a library eventually." He smiles at the party.
Pesmer will go with everyone else to the WLA membership to cheer everyone on.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 18/18 AC: 15/12/12 CMB: +5 Monday March 14th, 2016 12:46:37 AM
Stohp glances at the pile of gold with a marked lack of interest. "I don't really need anything at the moment. I'll donate my share to the party funds." She slides it back to the center of the table to rejoin the gold set aside for the party
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 23/23 AC: 19 T: 11 FF: 18 Party Treasury Monday March 14th, 2016 10:52:46 AM I'll certainly help improve the warehouse. We definitely need to address the backdoor into the sewers. I like the idea of a retractable ladder., Zanderallen, noticing the new badge on Pesmer's robe, turns to him next, Congratulations on joining the Star Mages. I hope we are as fortunate as you in joining our chosen guilds.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 23/23 AC: 19 T: 11 FF: 18 Party Treasury Monday March 14th, 2016 11:36:57 AM "I plan on helping improve the warehouse. We will need to do something with the backdoor into the sewers at the very least.", noticing Pesmer's new badge, Zanderallen turns to him and offers condratulations, "Well done getting into the Star Mages. I hope the rest of us have the same good fortune in joining our chosen guilds."
K (Carl) HP: 20 AC:17/14/13 CMD:18 Monday March 14th, 2016 2:06:44 PM
Seeing the adventurers are speaking business that doesn't apply to him yet, he takes his leave.
He produces a small slip of paper with his address. "This is where I can be found most mornings and evenings. If you folks plan on doing anything that I can assist in, I'd appreciate you letting me know."
With that, K heads out the door, breathing a sigh of relief as it closes behind him. "Well, K, you did it," he states to himself. "Hopefully they'll come calling soon..."
He walks home to his dingy hovel. It's not much, and certainly not becoming a paladin of Flower, but it's home.
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 14/15 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Monday March 14th, 2016 6:25:14 PM
Agrippa watches Kay take his leave of the table. Detecting no malice from the human, she wonders when the group will see him again. In the meantime, she jots down a list of chores in her head; 1: Purchase Masterwork Studded Leather Armor for 157g 5s. 2: Attempt to join the League of Adventurers with some of the others. 3: Fix the door into the sewers so that it can be opened/closed from the inside.
Finishing her garlic potatoes, Agrippa will thank the chef and take leave of the table. "I'll be a' the warehouse tomorrow... afternoon(?) if ya' need me."
Micah (John) HP: 16/16 AC: 17/10/17 Monday March 14th, 2016 9:38:22 PM
The next morning Micah rises early, starting the day with prayers and meditation.
With a pleasant smile on his face, he does his stretches and exercises before breakfasting.
Looking forward to their trip to WLA he watches for his new friends and enjoys the peaceful time when the town goes through its waking routine.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 23/23 AC: 19 T: 11 FF: 18 Party Treasury Monday March 14th, 2016 11:40:27 PM
Zanderallen can hardly fall asleep anticipating the chance to join the WLA. His childhood heroes were member of the WLA. To think he might be able to join their ranks. Thanking Domi for this chance Zander finally dozes off.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 18/18 AC: 15/12/12 CMB: +5 Tuesday March 15th, 2016 1:23:01 AM
Stohp, who's is still staying at the Fatted Calf, whittles for an hour before bed - have to keep her crafting skills sharp. She's still not sure if she'll move into the warehouse once its all fixed up; while the solitude at the Calf is nice it might be better to be with the group in case of emergency.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 14/14 AC:12/12/10 Tuesday March 15th, 2016 5:21:50 AM "Why thank you Zanderallen. I do wish you all luck in joining whatever guilds and organizations you wish to be a part of. Now that I have passed it feels like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders." He laughs, not feeling the anxiety of trying to impress the Mages guild anymore.
Sleeping that night after saying goodbye to K, Pesmer dreams good dreams before waking in the morning. Rising around 9 am, the wizard will spend an hour preparing his spells before joining the others for breakfast and conversation. "Are you all ready for your big joinijng of WLA?" He asks everyone. "Oh and how K.. What did you all think? Shall we have a vote and see if he is accepted into the Silver Shield?"
Martisan Odenthorp (Damarr) HP: 15/15 | AC: 18 | T:14 | FF:15 Tuesday March 15th, 2016 5:22:05 PM
Making her way back to the warehouse as the group separates, Martisan spends a bit of time pacing their new base, taking notes on the dimensions and layout in her journal. After tumbling a few crates from the top of the pile in the sewer, the Halfling heads back to her tidy little corner, shoulders sore from her short battle with the large wood boxes.
In the morning, Martisan says a quick prayer to Pantheon before briefly consulting her journal and meeting the others for breakfast. "I'd like to see how the boy handles himself in a fight." She says when Pesmer calls for a vote on K. "I don't doubt his intentions, but until I can be sure we won't be babysitting a soft-hearted day-dreamer, my vote's gonna be a big 'No'. Martisan shrugs as she shifts her pack from one shoulder to the other.
"You all have fun checking out that Adventuring Guild. Congratulations on your own success, Pesmer. I'm not quite ready for the Sages' entrance exams myself, but I have been feeling a bit restless; might go pay our new friend a visit and see if we can't drum up some trouble to test the lad's mettle just a tad."
Micah (John) HP: 16/16 AC: 17/10/17 Tuesday March 15th, 2016 9:54:16 PM
Micah quickly swallow the piece of bread he was chewing to voice his agreement with Martisan, "There definitely should be a probationary period of some sort. I believe it will likely be a formality in this case, but at the least it avoids setting a dangerous precedent for future applicants."
Your Warehouse (DM Cayzle) Tuesday March 15th, 2016 10:33:31 PM
INDIVIDUAL ACTIONS
K offers his address and a pleasant farewell. He hopes that the group will contact him when it is time to adventure. He heads back to his dismal home, a single room rented above a blacksmith, with no sink or privvy other than a chamberpot. He takes care of buying water from a street merchant -- and bringing his pot to the night soil wagon -- himself, unless he wants to pay a boy a couple coppers a day to do such chores for him.
At home, he finds Sister Delphia, his theosophy mentor, waiting for him. "Really, K," she says, "there is a value to living in beauty and art, sayeth the Lady Flower. Do you have to live in such squalor?" It's a bit hard to hear her over the banging of the smithy.
Agrippa finds that there is no problem obtaining the desired armor from Haight's, at the 10% discount.
Martisan considers a stroll in the Big Float -- any destination in mind?
THE NEW HQ
Martisan proposes fixing the back door and maybe creating a library. A less ratty library, presumably! :-)
That will take some funds, but both Martisan and Stohp seem willing to share. Zanderallen wants to help fund a better back door. Although Stohp is not 100% on board with moving in.
THE WLA
Micah, Agrippa, and Zanderallen visit the WLA chapterhouse on Gold Lane, on the Gold Level. Pesmer joins in for moral support. The building -- it looks like it may have been a hotel in a previous life -- is flying the WLA flag, with the organization's symbol (see here, but just the logo, not the tower) in gold on a field of bright sky blue.
Inside, the former "common room" is filled with adventurers. There are two gnomes and two centaurs looking at a bulletin board of some kind. There is a small bar serving drinks -- evidently for free -- with four humans and half-humans talking over tankards. Another area has a dart board, where an elf and two humans are playing.
A human woman in chain mail comes over to you, gives you a look over, and asks, "Your badges, gentlemen, lady?"
REGISTERING THE GROUP NAME
So is it official? Is this band of heroes "The Silver Shield"? Or is it the "Silver Shields"? And who will go to the palace to set the name in stone?
K (Carl) HP: 20 AC:17/14/13 CMD:18 Tuesday March 15th, 2016 11:49:12 PM
K carefully sets down his recently washed & emptied chamber pot before greeting his guest.
"Welcome, Sister. Always a pleasure. I'd offer you something, but I make it a point not to store food here." K turns around to look at his hovel. "No, I don't have to live in such squalor. I know I'm welcome back home with mom and dad at any time."
K sticks his head out the window, trying to gauge how long it is until the smithy retires for the evening. "It's not so bad, though. Four walls, a roof...plus it's not like I don't pick up after myself."
That last bit is true. It's a hovel, but K keeps it clean.
"Anyway, we both know I don't really fit in back at the temple. Welcoming as you folks are, my place is here...at least for now. Met up with those adventurers what took on the rat problem the Fence has been having lately. Maybe I'll be moving up in the world before too long. 'Nuff about me though, what brings you?"
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 14/15 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Tuesday March 15th, 2016 11:51:10 PM
Agrippa looks around the common room of the League's chapterhouse. (ooc: what races are around the tankards? She's looking to see if any other half-orcs are here.) "It certainly looks impressive..." she says to herself under her breath.
As they are approached and asked upon by the human woman, she waits for Micah or Zander to speak out of habit. She looks for badges on the other adventurers around the League to see what she's talking about.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 18/18 AC: 15/12/12 CMB: +5 Wednesday March 16th, 2016 1:25:41 AM
Stohp enters the WLA and notices her party members. She's a bit surprised so many of them are here, but that's what she gets for not paying attention to what everyone else is doing. Joining the group, she tells the woman "I believe we're all here to apply, so we don't have badges yet."
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 14/14 AC:12/12/10 Wednesday March 16th, 2016 5:44:28 AM
Pesmer smiles to his smaller friendly, nodding as he shows off his shiny new brooch. "Thank you kindly. I can help you study for the exams if you so desire. I cannot actually teach you spells and the like, though. Star Mage has all kinds of rules I am forced to follow. I agree with K being on probation. Seems reasonable enough for us to get to see his skills before he officially joins. "
Pesmer will blink at the human woman in chain mail as she asks for badges. "I won't be joining you all so I might as well go register our group name. Is it The Silver Shield or Silver Shields?"
Whatever they quickly vote on, Pesmer will wish everyone luck before leaving the guild and make his way to the official building to formally register the groups name.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 23/23 AC: 19 T: 11 FF: 18 Party Treasury Wednesday March 16th, 2016 8:31:00 AM "As my companion Stoph said, we're actually hoping to get our badges today. I'm Zanderallen, this is Micah, and this Agrippa", introducing himself and his companions as he mentions their names. "We are members of the soon to be registered Silver Shield adventuring party. Silver Shields adventuring party? No, I like Silver Shield. We heard today was the day to join the Woldian League of Adventurers."
Zanderallen tries not to over do it but he gets obviously more and morr excited as he talks. As he finishes talking he is left with a hude grin on his face.
Martisan Odenthorp (Damarr) HP: 15/15 | AC: 18 | T:14 | FF:15 Wednesday March 16th, 2016 8:12:05 PM
Martisan nods to Pesmer before the group heads out, "I understand; gotta keep the Guild secrets and all that. I would join the Star Mages myself, but my interest in the arcane is more a means to greater truth, rather than exploring the mysteries and power of arcane magic itself. Although there's certainly enough there to study." She nods to Pesmer, a sign of respect for the wizard's abilities and knowledge of magic. "It seems like the Sages might have more avenues for me to explore than arcane lore alone. If we do have a bit of time before any more trouble springs up I'd certainly appreciate a few pointers on the more studied aspects of spellcraft."
With the rest of the group going to the WLA, Martisan takes her time heading to the address Z provided, surprised to find the devoted servant of Flower in a less-than upscale neighborhood.
Knocking on the door to the hovel, Martisan calls out lightly "Z! The others went to the Top to join the Woldian League of Adventurers and officially register our group name. I thought maybe you'd be interested in taking a tour of the warehouse we recently acquired. Give us a few tips from your patron on how we can make the place feel a bit more like home, maybe scope out a space for yourself, if you've any interest in moving after you join up with us." She eyes the man's current accommodations with a look of interest. "Good chance to get to know each other a bit better in any case."
When Z sees Martisan, she is attired as before - manacles, shortsword and whip hanging from her belt, with a hide shirt beneath nondescript traveler's clothes. Newly acquired, however, is a flowing black cape, trimmed in purple, with a gold shamrock clasp. The cape flutters as the Halfling's moves, billowing out behind her as she walks and adding an extravagant flair as she motions with her arms (always talking with her hands, that one).
[OOC: Martisan's not there to answer the question, but I like The Silver Shield (Guardians of the Fence!) better as well.]
Micah (John) HP: 16/16 AC: 17/10/17 Wednesday March 16th, 2016 9:25:38 PM
Micah quietly nods agreement as the others speak out then asks, "Can you direct us in knowing how to join? We all are in accord with our understanding of the tenets of the league and wish to pledge ourselves to its cause."
Micah (John) HP: 16/16 AC: 17/10/17 d20+7=26 ; Wednesday March 16th, 2016 9:26:30 PM
[Diplomacy check 26. Forgot to add to post.]
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 14/15 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+5=10 ; Wednesday March 16th, 2016 11:31:06 PM
As her party makes mention of the party's intention, Agrippa focuses her attention on if the other patrons see us as a distraction, or a curiosity. She tries to listen into their conversations (Perception: 10).
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 18/18 AC: 15/12/12 CMB: +5 Thursday March 17th, 2016 12:21:50 AM
Stohp takes note of the lovely furniture in the room. Simple, solid, excellent craftsmanship. Unfortunately it looks like almost no one else appreciates it considering all the scars from people testing weapons on tables. She even sees a couple people putting their feet on the table - she's glad she's not eating off them.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 14/14 AC:12/12/10 Thursday March 17th, 2016 3:12:17 AM "Sure. I have no problems teaching you a few things about the arcane and its spellcrafting capabilities." Grinning, Pesmer pulls out a piece of parchment as he pretends to write upon it. "Standard fee for pointers given.. Expense of talking.. Time spent holding nose in air and scoffing.. Yes, that shall do. The fee for me to train you comes out to be 9000 gold, 42 silver and 52 copper.. Coin only please. I do not accept trade goods." He smiles all innocent like as he hands the bill over to Martisan, though really it was just a blank piece of parchment.
At the official office, Pesmer gives them the name 'The Silver Shield'. He will sign any and all forms of paper work that he must.
Your Warehouse (DM Cayzle) Thursday March 17th, 2016 8:58:40 PM
At K's HOVEL OF A ROOM
Sister Delphia smiles when K asks why she has come. "Is it not enough to know that there are those who care about you, and who want you to do better than ..." she looks around and actually gives a little sniff. "... this?"
"But I *do* have another mission. I am charged with visiting all of our people who do not live at the motherhouse to warn them to be alert for the misdeeds of our old enemies, the Hands of Love."
[OOC: K, you are aware of the Hands of Love as radical followers of Caeroldra who feel compelled to spread their own twisted definition of passion and love to others.]
"There are rumors that they are gathering their energy," explains Delphia, "to do something bad. We are worried that they will set on and kill or abduct our people they meet out and about on their own, singly."
At about this time, Martisan arrives. Delphia is, of course, very gracious, and is skilled at making conversation and putting people at their ease. She asks Martisan many leading questions under the guise of conversation. If she discovers much of the truth, by the end of the visit she says to K, "I'm pleased to see you making friends, young paladin. Do try to have a friend nearby if the Hands reach out to you. The Big Float is not a safe place."
Martisan invites K to come visit the warehouse.
AT THE WLA CHAPTERHOUSE
Agrippa's sharp eyes see a half-elf, a half-orc, and several humans drinking. Most have badges -- maybe all, but she cannot see their fronts.
Talkative Zander is clearly excited about joining.
Micah is more polite and restrained, but just as interested.
Stohp says that they have no badges, but they are all here to get badges, and to join.
Pesmer corrects that accidental error, explaining that he is a Star Mage, and just here for encouragement.
The fierce-eyed human woman in chain mail grins and invites you in -- except for Pesmer. He is not welcome.
The other four heroes are shown to an inner sitting-room, with a number of comfy chairs, some sized for gnomes and halflings, and including cushions meant for liontaurs and big chairs meant for minotaurs. (Centaurs generally stand.)
After a brief wait, a remarkably clean human in a noblewoman's kirtle enters and sits down with you. She is wearing a badge -- a stone tower with the WLA symbol on it; she gets right down to business. "I am Lady Olisa, and I am an officer of the WLA. Please, each of you, tell me why you wish to join our organization, because we do not take everyone who wishes to join."
ON THE OPEN AIR LEVEL
Rebuffed, howsoever cheerfully, Pesmer makes his way to the Palace, registration paperwork in hand, and finds himself by the taxi stand looking up at the Palace. He is told that with no voucher, this time it costs 10 gp to get a flight to the Palace.
AT THE WAREHOUSE
Here is a description of the warehouse that you are making into a headquarters.
Neighborhood. The wide street is Lakeview Passage. The warehouse is between the Passage and the Lake.
Floor 1. You were here for the fight. The large open room you first entered has very high ceilings (18 ft) and big double doors. This room was used for rat food storage. Within are a few offices and a secret door with stairs going down to the back door, a small chamber with a steel-plated portcullis, that leads to the sewers.
Floor 2. This floor has a bedroom and a library, and stairs going down and up. 8 ft high ceilings. The bulk of this level is the high ceiling in the main storeroom on the first floor.
Floor 3. This huge open room has 8 ft high ceilings. It was used as a brreding room for rats, and is filled with tables and cages. There are also three windows looking out over the lake.
Micah's Post Via Email Before Last Turn ... submitted by Cayzle Thursday March 17th, 2016 9:30:46 PM
Micah turns to Pesmer, "It appears we will have to part ways for now, but this will give you an opportunity to register our group's name. I will catch up with you either at the warehouse or dinner, depending how long we are here. Farewell."
He then bows with a smile to their hostess and follows her lead. Given the opportunity he will try to check out the bulletin board. [perception 14]
Micah (John) HP: 16/16 AC: 17/10/17 d20+3=14 ; Thursday March 17th, 2016 10:51:25 PM
[test after relogging in. Interestingly enough it still has my perception roll from my earlier attempt to post]
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 18/18 AC: 15/12/12 CMB: +5 Thursday March 17th, 2016 11:17:21 PM "Why do I want to join?" Stohp ponders the question a moment before answering. "Lets be honest, I didn't seriously consider being an adventurer; I've always been fairly weak and try to avoid fights. But some stuff happened, one thing lead to another, and at this point I"m basically committed. If I want to do the best job I can and stay alive I figure I'd better get some training and advice from the people who actually know what they are doing."
Stohp shrugs self-consciously. "Maybe not the best reason, but it's what I've got."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 23/23 AC: 19 T: 11 FF: 18 Party Treasury Thursday March 17th, 2016 11:36:10 PM "Lady Olisa, I am Zanderallen Baker. I grew up an orphan on the Fence and after a time spent as an apprentice baker I was given the opportunity to join the service of Domi. After studying his ways I chose to join the paladins to do some good in the world. I have heard stories of the heroes of the WLA and I wish to join your ranks to aid in the advancement of good in the world as did Domi himself. My dedication to Domi will always be first but there is no reason these two commitments can't align. If you will have me I am ready to pledge myself.", Zanderallen says with a bow. He becomes very serious as he presents his case.
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 14/15 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+6=11 ; Friday March 18th, 2016 3:02:06 AM
At the request of the clean human woman, Agrippa attempts to recollect what information about her she might have learned on the streets (Knowledge Local: 11). Not finding much, she switches to her formal accent and speaks;
"I am Agrippa of the Fairgew family. I was raised surrounded by the experiences of adventurers, their run-ins with death and fortune, and I was charmed. However, after my fa-" She glances at her companions nervously. "...my Father , Falgar, disappeared under unexplained circumstances serving the Royal Army, I decided against Ffloy's standard teachings of the loyal merchantman, and practiced in gathering the information only softly spoken. In this way, I hope to know what befell Falgar. If they are acceptable, may I practice and hone such skills here?"
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 14/14 AC:12/12/10 Friday March 18th, 2016 4:35:44 AM
A dark cloud hangs over poor Pesmer as he is dismissed from the WLA so sharply, yet he does his best to cheer up as he makes his way to the higher levels to register. And yet.. That dark cloud quickly returns, darker and with more rain and lightning, as he is told he must spend 10 gold just to get a taxi. "It is now 30 gold I have spent on this group.. My poor treasure..." Sniffling, he will give the taxi owner 10 gold and take the trip up to the palace, all gloomy and defeated looking. As he is taken the the castle, he dreams of being a dragon so that he could fly to any place he could so desire. He also dreams about burning the taxi services down.. And maybe the woman in chain mail.
K (Carl) HP: 20 AC:17/14/13 CMD:18 Friday March 18th, 2016 8:43:54 AM
"I grew up in the Temple. Of course I know I'm loved, and you know darn well that the love given to me by you, my parents, and the rest is returned. As for wanting to do better than this...well, you and me both, doll. You and me both."
His mood darkens when he hears the Hand is up to shenanigans. It never occurred to him before now that moving away from the temple meant one less able-bodied warrior was there to protect it. "Give me details, Sister. I'm a paladin; I take the fight to our enemies, not wait for them to attack our faithful." It's about that time that Martisan arrives. K is somewhat nervous, he even forgets to correct her when she calls him Z. Thankfully, Sister Delphia is a sparkling conversationalist as always.
K embraces the Sister when she takes her leave. "Give my love to everyone. I'll come by for a visit in a couple days. Thanks for checking in on me." Alone with Martisan, he's happy to go along with her to see their warehouse. He's not one for small talk, but keeps a conversation going along the way.
"Sister Delphia there was warning me that the Hands of Love are getting active around here. A ridiculous name for a group of small-minded, short-sighted idiots. Caeroldra's teachings are profane enough without radicalizing them." He looks around at the Fence as they walk, noticing its unsavory elements all around them. "This whole place is a testament to how quickly following individual passions without care to the ones around you turns to crap. The Sister and my parents may not approve of what I've chosen to do with my life, but this place needs unselfish love more than most..."
Micah (John) HP: 16/16 AC: 17/10/17 Sunday March 20th, 2016 12:24:59 PM
Waiting for the others to finish, Micah then gives his own reasons, "My lady, as a priest if Dom I am dedicated to protect the downtrodden and oppose those who would oppress and destroy. As recently demonstrated to me through my participation in the newly formed Silver Shield," here he gestures to include his companions, "it is best to join together with like minded souls in such an endeavor. It is the League' commitment to such ideals and my desire to be a part of something bigger than myself that leads me to seek membership. I am also not unaware of the benefits of such membership and hope that, over time, I could be in a position to give back to the organization."
[please recall the 26 dilplomacy check for this encounter]
K (Carl) HP: 20 AC:17/14/13 CMD:18 Sunday March 20th, 2016 7:55:36 PM
K shakes his head. Too much negativity isn't good for the soul...or something like that. His mother used to say it all. the. time, and try as he might, K just can't shake the lessons of his parents.
"Enough about me. Tell me about yourself..."
Rumors and Portends (DM Cayzle) Monday March 21st, 2016 11:23:57 AM
Micah sees the following on the notice board:
JOBS
- Heroes are wanted to help defend the new Colony of Cliffendor-Across-The-Lake. Only the bravest should volunteer.
- Adventurers are needed to guard caravan trains across land and sea to Plateau City. This is for cargo too big to bring through the magical portals that link the cities. A druid is especially sought to care for the giant turtles. Experience in wilderness required.
- Messengers sought to find and deliver messages and light goods to the elves and drow of the Crying Woods. Experience in the Crying Woods preferred.
NEWS and RUMORS
- Mask day is coming soon, and rumor has it that a known thieves guild will be wearing hawk masks for a special job.
- Vigilantes (Unregistered adventurers? Others?) have been attacking muggers on the Barracks Level. They have foiled one attempted rape but also beat up a couple innocent drunks.
- A new hero group has been fighting an infestation of vermin on the Fence.
- Dragon Consortium members have been seen visiting hero groups around the Big Float recently.
- Lars Tokasis MAY be visiting the chapterhouse in a couple months to give a talk.
===== ===== =====
Slightly bitter at being refused entrance to the WLA, Pesmer purchases his ride to the Palace. There, it is a simple matter to have the bureaucrat fill in the space on the group's registration with the official name chosen: The Silver Shield.
===== ===== =====
Delphia tells K and Martisan that the Hands of Love have been more aggressive lately. They are spreading out on the streets, especially in the Barracks level, where they are preaching their creed of passion and -- rumor has it -- getting into brawls with those who disagree. No one has caught them at it yet, however.
She says her farewell, and K asks Martisan about her background.
===== ===== =====
Lady Olisa says to Stohp, "You seek training. But what will you do with our training? We will not train mercenaries or murderers."
Agrippa explains that she seeks to answer the mystery of her missing father. Olisa nods in empathy. "I am glad you care about others, but to belong to the WLA, you must care for those outside your family. Or rather, you must understand that all the noble races are a part of the same family."
Zanderallen says he wants to do good in the Wold. Olisa smiles. "Now we come nearer the mark. The WLA is dedicated to opposing evil in all its forms. Excellent."
Micah says that he seeks to "protect the downtrodden and oppose those who would oppress and destroy." The lady is pleased, and she tells him that she would be glad to recommend him for membership immediately.
She turns back to Agrippa and Stohp to see if they have anything else to say.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 18/18 AC: 15/12/12 CMB: +5 Monday March 21st, 2016 12:13:15 PM
Stohp snorts. "Murderer? So far I feel like I"m the only person determined to bring in our targets alive. This is a city not some backwater or warzone, if we don't at least try non-lethal methods we're no better then the criminals we're fighting; worse then some.
As for being a mercenary, money doesn't really interest me, certainly not enough to risk my life for it. I can make a decent enough living with my woodcraft, anything I get from the adventuring will go towards keeping myself and my fellows alive."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 18/18 AC: 15/12/12 CMB: +5 Monday March 21st, 2016 4:10:48 PM
Reazling she didn't actually answer the question, Stohp adds. "I guess I'll use the skills for police work? We formed to "clean up the fence", so tracking and capturing/eliminating criminal organizations."
Martisan Odenthorp (Damarr) HP: 15/15 | AC: 18 | T:14 | FF:15 d20+10=28 ; Monday March 21st, 2016 5:12:31 PM
A fine interlocutor herself, and fairly intuitive besides (SM 28), whether Martisan sees Sister Delphia's probing intentions or not is unclear, but she answers the woman's questions earnestly, giving K's old friend a sense of the newly formed Silver Shield and the Halfling herself.
"I grew up in the Trash, myself." Martisan tells K as they head to the warehouse. "Ran with a bad crowd through my youth until a servant of Pantheon tracked our group down and brought us to Justice. I got off easy enough, with a few others, and only had to serve the Justicar and learn the tenets of his faith, with a promise to continue furthering truth and justice after leaving his care." The Halfling shrugs, causing the hem of her cape to flutter briefly around her waist. "I was never treated so well before, and I've yet to find a force more powerful than Truth itself, so I did what I could around the fence here, helping folks with a bit of legal advice here and there and the occasional light investigative work, until I started looking into the vermin problem and ran into the others."
"I don't know much about Caeroldra, but that 'Hands of Love' group sounds like a growing bit of trouble." Martisan says with a hint of excitement as she runs a hand through her golden curls. "We should bring it up to the others; it might bear looking into. If they're already causing trouble on the Barracks Level, who knows the kind of problems they'd cause on the nearly un-policed Fence if they came down this way. Like you said, we definitely need more of the right kind of love around here to strengthen the community; not the unbridled passions that lead to arguments and brawls."
When they reach the warehouse, Martisan leads K through the building, making light commentary throughout the short tour. "Y'know, I think we should actually make a trip to the Barracks Level ourselves, you and me. Definitely tell the others first, of course, but we can probably get more done with just two or three of us rather than with a big group. Sounds like those Hand hooligans are more likely to reveal themselves to an individual or small group - and we can maybe be a little more discreet in our search."
It's quite clear that Martisan is more excited about the prospect of another adventure than fearful of any possible dangers lurking.
K (Carl) HP: 20 AC:17/14/13 CMD:18 Monday March 21st, 2016 8:09:15 PM
K nods as Martisan speaks. He takes an instant liking to the halfling, especially when she says they should just go investigate themselves instead of waiting around.
"It's a nice place you have here. Hopefully you folks will see I'm not a pretty face & invite me to join. In the meantime, I'm up for a trip to the Barracks level. I'll need to swing by my hole first so I can grab a cape. We're not likely to get the Hand to approach us if I'm sporting this symbol of Flower on my chest.
"Let your people know what we're up to while I get myself somewhat more disguised. We'll meet back here before we go."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 23/23 AC: 19 T: 11 FF: 18 Party Treasury Monday March 21st, 2016 11:21:23 PM
Zanderallen bows slightly to Lady Olisa as she addresses him and then waits for his companions' answers. As he does so he reflects on Micah's answer. Such wisdom and such simple truth seem to come from this brother. This serves to only heighten his respect toward the clerical arm of the priesthood of Domi.
Zander briefly wonders how his other friends are getting along. Hopefully Pesmer isn't having trouble getting the group registered. We better get the party purse ready, Pesmer always seems to run into some expense on our behalf. Such terrible luck. Martisan was sure to be getting into trouble somewhere, and then there is K. Strange man but I guess we'll have to see if he fits in, I'm willing to give him a chance, Zander thinks to himself.
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 14/15 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+6=14 ; Tuesday March 22nd, 2016 4:52:56 AM
Agrippa raises an eyebrow when she says the word "...noble...," (Sense Motive: 14) but will give her the benefit of the doubt, perhaps meaning that all races are noble. [b]"Ffloy has given me a reverence for life. I wish to share this reverence with all I meet, and aid in its preservation as much as I can. I hope that the resources that this League offers and requests can tip the scales when it comes to each of our empathetic endeavors." She'll give a small bow to finish her statement off.
Micah (John) HP: 16/16 AC: 17/10/17 Tuesday March 22nd, 2016 7:36:53 AM
Micah fears that Olisa, not having seen their actions as he has, may not give his companions the chance they deserve, but is concerned that him speaking on their behalf might insult them or possibly even hurt their cause.
Deciding that these concerns should not prevent him trying to aid his friends, he speaks up, "I know not if my words should bear any weight with you or whether it appropriate for me to give them voice in this situation, but my experience with each of these individuals as we have worked together for the greater good of our community tells me that they, too, share the ideals that the League holds to. As Stohp has said, her motivations are neither greed nor bloodlust, but a desire to provide aid to those who need it. And Agrippa's desire to provide aid, as she says, extends well beyond her relatives or those she would call friends."
Rumors and Portends (DM Cayzle) Tuesday March 22nd, 2016 11:01:37 AM
Lady Olisa listens to Stohp, and at first it takes the taur a moment to get to the point. Then she talks about stopping criminals and such groups. Olisa tugs on her braid and nods. "That will suffice," she says.
Agrippa wonders what "noble" means to this lady, but holds her tongue on that issue and avows her dedication to life.
Micah speaks up in support of his two friends.
Zanderallen listens intently, glad of the wisdom of his comrade.
The lady nods. She talks with you all for a while, explaining how the organization works, the very expensive dues that must be met once you have more experience, the benefits and the responsibilities. She emphasizes the latter.
After a couple hours, she asks if you four are all willing to take the oath and commit to the organization. "There's no dishonor in turning away now," she says, "but after you swear the oath, you are bound by your word, and by all that is sacred."
===== ===== =====
Martisan's intuition regarding the priestess of Flower is that she is concerned about K and generally open anf forthright. She tells K about her own background, and is eager to embrace adventure.
K agrees, and the two decide to head up to the Barracks level to see what they can see with regard to these Hands of Love. But first K wants a cloak to hide his symbol of Flower, the god most opposed to Caeroldra.
Walking along Lakeside Passage, a young boy stops you. "Hey miss! Miss!" he says to Martisan. She recognizes him as a brother of the boy who was attacked by rats. "Miss, you did it! Everyone says so! MAMA! MAMA! It's the hero!"
The boy's mother, a woman you met in your initial investigations just before joining the party, emerges from a bakery where she works. "Oh, the young hero! Well, you just must stop in and have some pie!" The twinkle in her eye tells you that she is well aware that pie is a dessert of choice for those of the halfling clans.
===== ===== =====
As Pesmer returns from the palace, the flying carpet / taxi stand's owner's daughter is the one to pick him up. She recognizes him and flirts a little more than somewhat with the arcanist. She suggests that he treat her to a visit to the midway, now that he is a real hero.
K (Carl) HP: 20 AC:17/14/13 CMD:18 Tuesday March 22nd, 2016 11:23:23 AM
K is not being addressed, and therefor remains silent. He fixes his gaze on the woman, however, to see if evil resides in her heart. Can't be too careful around these parts...
***
Detect evil on the mother. My understanding is that this can be done w/o drawing any attention to myself. It's not worth it to K to risk upsetting someone trying to be kind in The Fence. If he can't do it w/o being noticed, he won't.
Martisan Odenthorp (Damarr) HP: 15/15 | AC: 18 | T:14 | FF:15 Tuesday March 22nd, 2016 3:40:06 PM
Before leaving the warehouse, Martisan scrawls a quick note and leaves it where the others will find it if they return before she and K can meet up with them.
Good afternoon friends! I hope congratulations are in order from your visit to the Open Air! I stopped by our new... applicant, K's home (dingy little place - he called it a 'hole' himself; not the sort of digs you'd expect to see a Paladin of Flower in) and I brought him by our place here. There was another member of K's faith visiting him when I stopped by - a Sister Delphia - who was warning K about a cult, 'Hands of Love,' that's been causing trouble on the Barracks level. If we haven't run into each other yet, K and I are going to go see what information we can find out about this cult. We'll be on the Barracks Level.
~~~
Grinning broadly, Martisan saunters over to the woman's bakery, unable to resist the paired offering of pie and praise. "Well now, if you insist, I suppose one piece can't hurt!" As she passes the boy, Martisan shrugs her shortbow over her head and hands it to him with a wink. "Don't go snapping yourself with the string, now." She cautions, gently jostling his side with an elbow.
Glancing back to K, Martisan waves for the paladin to join them. "One quick bite and then we'll continue on our way. We should still be able to catch one of the others up Top and tell them our plan. I left a note back at the warehouse as well." She turns back to the woman, shrugging off her backpack to set it just inside the doorway. "How's the family? No more worrisome bites, I hope."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 18/18 AC: 15/12/12 CMB: +5 Tuesday March 22nd, 2016 6:51:50 PM
Stohp raises her hand (or whatever gesture is appropriate) and intones “I, Stohp, do solemnly swear to uphold the ideals of the League, to protect the innocent and combat evil wherever I may find it.”
Inwardly she adds to herself Until I die or come to my senses and quit.
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 14/15 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Tuesday March 22nd, 2016 7:09:47 PM
Agrippa can tell that this organization is diligent and prudent after the few hours of learning what they stand for. She is proud to make the oath, not only to further her own investigation into her 'father's' disappearance, but to aid like-minded individuals. Ffloy certainly respect diligent effort as opposed to wasteful risks of mercenary life, so it seems like Agrippa is in the right place. She makes the oath.
"I, Fairgew, Agrippa, do solemnly swear to uphold the ideals of the League, to protect the innocent and combat evil wherever I may find it."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 23/23 AC: 19 T: 11 FF: 18 Party Treasury Tuesday March 22nd, 2016 9:49:04 PM
Zanderallen listens intently to the history and workings of the WLA, much better than he has ever paid attention to any history lesson. He nods solemnly at the responsibilities and takes them to heart.
Putting his first over his heart in the tradition of warriors, "I, Zanderallen, do solemnly swear to uphold the ideals of the League, to protect the innocent and combat evil wherever I may find it."
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 14/14 AC:12/12/10 Tuesday March 22nd, 2016 11:01:11 PM
Pesmer, having turned in the groups name, would make his way back to the taxi stand only to be greeted by the taxi stand owner's daughter. With her flirting with him in such an obvious manner, he replies with awkward stuttering and a nervous sweat upon his brow. When she spoke of him treating her to the midway, however, it was then that the mage mustered up his courage. Who was he to be afraid of a little flirting and laughter? He had slain rats, thieves and cut-purses alike! Who was he to be afraid of a young woman with a twinkle in her eye.. Gulp.. Maybe he could summon something to be his wing-man..
He would agree to spend the evening taking her to the midway, telling her stories and getting to know her. He would spend a bit of his precious coin upon her as he would pay for dinner and maybe a gift or two. It was nice spending the evening with a friendly face compared to searching the sewers for thieves.
Micah (John) HP: 16/16 AC: 17/10/17 Wednesday March 23rd, 2016 7:30:08 AM
As Olisa explains about the league, he privately prays to Domi. Everything he hears confirms in his heart and mind that this is what his master is calling him to do.
When it comes time to give his oath to this organization, he confidently states, "I, Micah Smith, do solemnly swear to uphold the ideals of the League, to protect the innocent and combat evil wherever I may find it.
He looks at his companions and smiles, thinking, "First the Silver Shield, now the WLA. Domi, I know not what you have in store for me, but it appears whatever it is you wish me to not do it alone."
With a warmth in his heart that seems as if it can barely be contained and an enthusiasm he does not really understand, he asks, [b]"What next?"
Rumors and Portends (DM Cayzle) Wednesday March 23rd, 2016 4:14:27 PM
In this situation, in which he is not being addressed or even much observed, K thinks these folks will not notice his effort to look into the mother's soul to see if she harbors an evil nature. In another situation, among more savvy or alert folks, the sight of K standing quietly and intently may provoke some notice. But not today
And in fact, K sees not a shred of shadow on the mother's soul; she seems as sweet and caring as her exterior implies.
So there is no reason to avoid her offer of hospitality and pie to Martisan and her friend. Indeed, Martisan is an exemplar of graciousness, gladly accepting a large slice of pie and engaging the lady of the house in conversation. She says that no, there have been no further incidents, and she is so glad and grateful. Why, her cousin Mabel just this morning was saying she met a fortune teller who said things were looking up here in the neighborhood, and you heroes are a good part of the reason for that. She asks if Martisan's friend is a hero too, and she wonders if you would stay for dinner.
===== ===== =====
Stohp, Agrippa, Zanderallen, and Micah all swear the official oath of the Woldian League of Adventurers. Then Lady Olisa stands and embraces each of you. There is a ceremony in which each of you receive a "Adventurer" WLA badge. She reminds you that after you have a little more experience, you'll want to pay your dues (1,000 gp due after you gain your 3rd level). and exchange your badges for Journeyman badges.
She speaks with you about your starting courses of study, and you decide what to focus on at first. [OOC: Please pick one skill for a +2 bonus, or two skills for a +1 bonus in both.]
===== ===== =====
Pesmer gathers his courage and tries his best to chat with the girl taxi-flier. She grins and calls him by name, reminding him that hers is Elspeth. After a false start or two, Pesmer invites the vivacious girl to an evening on the midway. From her reaction, she is surprised -- she was just thinking about an hour or two this afternoon. But she switches gears quickly, tells Pesmer to dress "nice," and gives him a peck on the cheek as she drops him off at the end of the ride. She'll see him tonite!
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 14/15 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Wednesday March 23rd, 2016 8:45:53 PM
Agrippa dons her new badge. She wonders how silly it looks compared to an actual army ranking. In any event, she congratulates her other members as they walk back down the hall near the entrance. "Y'know, I kinda like how personal they got. It's nice knowin' tha' everyone else 'ere took that oath too, tryin' ta make this place better." If the party wants to talk about a request at the board, she'll join them for that. If not, she'll head to those classes they were offering.
She chooses to take classes teaching about the Nobles in the Float, and of their customs. She also takes the opportunity to learn about how magic works. Her curiosity was peaked after having watched Martisan cast the Message spell. She remembers a friend from a few years ago who learned how to do that trick, but without words or motions.
If the party has other business that they want to discuss, Agrippa will be at the warehouse after her classes, but before the meal.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 18/18 AC: 15/12/12 CMB: +5 Wednesday March 23rd, 2016 9:05:23 PM
Stohp slaps her badge on haphazardly - it's actually a little crooked. Tracking down the more... morally flexible members of the guild Stohp learns a bit more about telling baldfaced lies. After all those are the best kind of lies! (+2 Bluff).
After her training she heads to the warehouse with Agrippa, the first time she's been there since the renovations. She's suitably impressed by everyone's hard work.
K (Carl) HP: 20 AC:17/14/13 CMD:18 Wednesday March 23rd, 2016 11:31:03 PM
As soon as K senses no ill will from the woman, all apprehension washes away & he smiles genuinely at her warmth. "No ma'am, not a hero yet. Plan on changing that, though." He moves his cloak back, revealing the symbol of Flower on his armor. "...and dinner with you folks sounds great by me. I've eaten far too much stale bread & tavern food lately."
Inwardly, he's glad Martisan came and fetched him. This was all much better than listening to the smithy work all evening.
Before the meal, with his host's blessing, he'll offer a prayer to Flower. "Lady Flower, kindly watch over these folk. Their generosity and hospitality are a model for your teachings," he takes a deep whiff of whatever it is they're served, "and my goodness they must love to cook. I will keep them in my prayers."
His prayer ends abruptly. "Thanks for letting me pray, ma'am. Means a lot." He digs in w/o further ado, trying hard not to eat more than his fill.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 23/23 AC: 19 T: 11 FF: 18 Party Treasury Thursday March 24th, 2016 1:00:41 AM
After returning Lady Olisa's embrace, Zanderallen takes some time arranging his badge just so, trying to balance it and the symbol of Domi sewn on his tunic. After it is placed to his satisfaction he says to Olisa, "You can be sure I will return when I have the time, coin, and experience to be worthy of training. There is no point in doing something if it's not worth doing in full. I will do my best to make the League proud."
For his courses he seeks out those skilled in the ways of influencing others and reading their emotions. (Diplomacy +1, Sense Motive +1) [b]"Always been a people person"[b]
After that Zanderallen will head back to the warehouse and see what everyone thinks of any of the quests posted on the WLA notice board or if anyone has heard anything else that would need the Silver Shield's attention.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 14/14 AC:12/12/10 Thursday March 24th, 2016 1:54:06 AM
(Letting you know I put a +1 in Spellcraft and +1 in Knowledge Arcane)
A few butterflies would dance within Pesmer's stomach as Elspeth gave a sweet kiss to his cheek. There was no known spell to cure butterflies, sadly.. With a plastered silly grin upon his face, Pesmer Elspeth goodbye for the moment as he goes off to fetch something 'nice'. Sadly he didn't have any formal clothing of any kind so he would head off to fetch himself a nice outfit to wear for his date. He would pick up the outfit where he could, looking for something a tad more elegant but not overly so, before making his way back to the hideout to see what everyone else was up to.
Micah (John) HP: 16/16 AC: 17/10/17 Thursday March 24th, 2016 4:40:26 AM
Micah also affixes the badge. He pauses a moment to consider his Domi necklace as he does. Having already resolved his decision to join the League, it is a moment of reverence rather than doubt.
He joins Zanderallen in his pursuit of improving his interpersonal skills, but rather than spend time to improve his ability to influence others, he focuses on his ability to discern their motives. (+2 sense motive)
As he returns to the warehouse with the others, he voiced a concern he has been pondering, "Do any of you think our membership will adversely affect iur relationship with the others? Perhaps I am over thinking this, but our pathetic each of us just swore could set us apart from the rest of the Silver Shield."
Martisan Odenthorp (Damarr) HP: 15/15 | AC: 18 | T:14 | FF:15 d20+8=16 ; Thursday March 24th, 2016 3:11:20 PM
Martisan nods, smiling, as the woman describes the improvement in the neighborhood. "Good to hear! I think the lad's got the stuff; he'll make a hero of himself in time!" she laughs, patting K's arm, "We haven't had much need for heroics since we sorted out that rat business, thankfully, but we've heard rumors about a cult stirring on the Barracks Level. 'Hands of Love' - have you heard anything about them?"
Martisan maintains the niceties as they wait for the meal to be served, spending some time 'playing hero' with the woman's son (they are almost comically close in size, the boy actually a couple inches taller than the small bard). She bows her head respectfully as K says his prayer, making silent obeisance herself, and continues to probe for any other general rumors the woman might've heard, keeping the conversation light and pleasant (Diplomacy 16 to gather info).
The Halfling eats more than would seem possible; two or three times what you'd expect for her size. As things conclude, Martisan leans back in her chair and pats her stomach "An excellent meal, thank you! I would love to purchase a few pies to take home, if you have any you could box up for me?" She offers the woman two gold pieces for as many pies as she can carry - overpayment for the simple pastries, certainly, but the largest amount Martisan thinks the woman might accept for her wonderful hospitality.
"You've been very kind; it's good to know we're doing some real good for the folks here. Please do stop by if there's anything we can help with." Martisan gives the woman directions to their nearby warehouse. "I'm heading back there now," She tells K while loading her arms with pies. "You're welcome to come; we can see what the others have to say about the news we heard earlier, find out what they've been up to and see about moving forward with our search."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 23/23 AC: 19 T: 11 FF: 18 Party Treasury Thursday March 24th, 2016 9:44:02 PM "Brother Micah, that is a concern. We must strive to make sure that does not happen. Also we must make sure that we of the League take care not to dedicate an undue amount of the groups time and resources to solely advance the League. But since I think all of us are driven, in our own ways, to do good I think we will all manage to work together. It is something to watch for certainly. What do you two think?", Zanderallen finishes speaking and turns to Stoph and Agrippa.
When Pesmer gets back to the warehouse he greets him, showing off his new badge, "Hello Pesmer, you are not the only one with new decorations. How was your trip to the palace? Did you get the group registered?"
Rumors and Portends (DM Cayzle) Thursday March 24th, 2016 10:40:33 PM
Zanderallen, Agrippa, Stohp, and Micah peruse the notices board (see above) and arrange for their training.
On the way to the Fence, they meet Pesmer, fresh from shopping for some nicer clothes. Does the young wizard tell his friends about his upcoming date?
[OOC: Pesmer, there are a myriad of shops, fine, fancy, and less so, lining the way from the Open Air level and down. You can spend as much or as little as you like. You can add a line to your PC sheet, for example ... "fancy outfit, 50 gp" for example. Note that the prices in the core rules apply ... a courtier's outfit is 30 gp; a noble's outfit is 75.]
Walking back to the warehouse, the five meet K and Martisan, the latter carrying a pie. The two just finished their meal and took their leave of the friendly family (who, alas, has no news of any Hands of Love for Martisan).
Together again, the group returns to the warehouse. By the way, has the party determined a name for the place yet? And do you plan to put a sign or sigil on the door or building? A silver shield, perhaps? :-)
There is news to share and a couple things to discuss.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 18/18 AC: 15/12/12 CMB: +5 Thursday March 24th, 2016 11:06:40 PM "Hand of Love...?" Stohp thinks back. "The alchemist we met, the guy who's cellar was full of rats, might know more. His daughter apparently ran off to join them; that's why he's been having alcohol problems. While you investigate on the barracks level I can go talk to him."
Micah (John) HP: 16/16 AC: 17/10/17 Friday March 25th, 2016 7:07:19 AM "Good idea," agrees Micah, "As you say, Rielbel was devastated by his daughter's joining them. Though I have no desire to cause him more pain by reminding him of his loss, I suspect he remembers it well enough without any reminders.
Perhaps by providing us any information he may have, it could bring him some comfort. Gods willing, we might even have the joy of seeing them restored. If you do not mind, I would rather accompany you than try to find K and Martisan."
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 14/15 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+6=9 ; d20+7=23 ; Friday March 25th, 2016 7:34:21 AM "I'll see wha' I can find out too." Agrippa adds. She'll comb the Fence and Barracks levels when she can to attempt to learn of locales, events, and such (Diplomacy: Gather Information = 23)(Knowledge Local = 9). She also thinks to herself that people calling themselves the 'Hand of Love' can't possibly be too... cultish. Can it?
K (Carl) HP: 20 AC:17/14/13 CMD:18 Friday March 25th, 2016 1:16:44 PM
K comes back to the warehouse with pie, "you folks should try this. That lady knows how to pie."
He grimaces when he hears that one of their contact's children went to join the Hand of Love. "I know I'm not really one of you yet, but I hope you'll take my advice not to take these folks lightly. Goddess of Passion sounds like a good thing, but her ideals warp what is part of many healthy, loving relationships into something selfish and twisted. Her church teaches people to abandon their children if they're not passionate about raising them. It teaches a commitment to self that just ain't healthy."
"Some people are passionate about rushing to physical violence. If that cult has attracted those types and fostered that passion, it could be a bad situation."
His piece said, he'll accompany Martisan if she still wants to check the Barracks level.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 14/14 AC:12/12/10 Saturday March 26th, 2016 2:36:03 AM
Pesmer will pick up a fancy outfit with 50 gold pieces, his shiny new duds still looking more like fancy wizard's robes then anything else.
"Good afternoon friends. I see you all have your badges. Good show and congratulations. Seems we are all becoming important, busy people. The group is registered and all set with our new name. I enjoyed my time out and about. Even got myself a date with the taxi stands daughter this evening. How was all of your day's? You all seem interested in a new mission of some sort?"
Pesmer asks as he safely secures his new outfit within his backpack, eyeing his friends as they speak of bad situations.
Rumors and Portends (DM Cayzle) Saturday March 26th, 2016 10:23:52 AM
OOC: FYI - You are al together now. Pesmer met the WLAers on his way back from the Palace. And all five of you met K and Martisan on Lakeview Passage as you headed to the warehouse. You al went there together to fill each other in on stuff. That's where you are now.
Stohp thinks of the alchemist you met recently, the one whose daughter was sucked into the Hands of Love. Micah concurs And evidently he is thinking of you all, because a message has been delivered from Rielbel -- asking for you all to meet with him -- tomorrow if it is convenient. The message shows signs of being both wine stained and tear stained, but it does little more than ask your kind indulgence for a meeting any time tomorrow.
Agrippa wants to head out to listen for rumors, and K seems inclined to have himself and Martisan join her.
Meanwhile, Pesmer shows off his new clothes, informs the other Silver Shields that they are official, and mentions that he has a date!
The night passes. Pesmer has a wonderful time -- Elspeth wants t try all the attractions on the Midway, especially loving the performances of combat expertise, acrobatics, knife-juggling, and magic. She wants to know if Pesmer can do that! There are pastries and music and -- if Pesmer agrees? -- some dancing!
K, Martisan and Pesmer make the rounds and hear this: The Hands of Love are seeking a higher profile in the Float. They are looking for recruits, and also acting as vigilantes around town. One group has registered as adventurers, but rumors say some are acting under the law. One old woman tells Martisan that there will be something happening on Mask Day, maybe, but she does not know what.
The next day dawns beautiful and bright.
K (Carl) HP: 20 AC:17/14/13 CMD:18 Saturday March 26th, 2016 3:29:06 PM
K wakes early, does his morning prayers and exercises, then goes to see Martisan & the rest at their warehouse to see if they're still interested in pursuing the Hand.
"I'm somewhat torn on this. On the one hand, I know those people are up to no good. On the other, if they ain't breaking any laws, I'm not the sort to act as judge & jury."
K frowns. He was hoping this was a problem that could be fixed with some good ol' fashioned bad guy thumping.
He checks the calendar, trying to see how far away Mask Day was.
"Maybe we focus our efforts on this Rielbel's daughter instead of trying to fix the problem in one big swoop."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 23/23 AC: 19 T: 11 FF: 18 Party Treasury Saturday March 26th, 2016 9:13:33 PM
Zanderallen starts his day as usual, prayers and drills, and then heads to do some shopping. He goes out looking for a good heavy sap. These Hands of Love blighters may have to be dealt with a little less violence than other troublemakers if they have elements operating within the law. After finishing up that endeavor he will send the rest of the day getting to know K better and brainstorming ideas to stop the Hands of Love. He is quite against the perversion of any holy teachings, and this group sounds like trouble.
Maybe some of us could pose as recruits to try to find their hideout? Wander the barracks level and try to get jumped by them? At the very least we need to help Rielbel. He must be worried sick about his daughter. With a sly grin at K, "If only we had some good looking fellow well versed in the doctrines of love to sweet talk her out of this cult."
Martisan Odenthorp (Damarr) HP: 15/15 | AC: 18 | T:14 | FF:15 Sunday March 27th, 2016 12:18:55 AM "Congratulations on your successful membership! Glad to see the League hasn't drawn your attentions away too much - there's much work to be done here on The Fence, and The Float at large." Martisan gives Agrippa a companionable pat on the leg, smiling up at her tusked friend.
"And how was your evening, loverboy?" Martisan asks Pesmer slyly, enjoying a pie for breakfast with her journal open on the table next to her. "All these rumors about the 'Hands of Love' are a bit confusing." She agrees, finger sliding down the page as she reads through her notes on the strange cult. "I agree that reuniting the potion maker with his daughter may be the most important aspect for us to focus on, but we definitely need more information on this troublesome group."
"I think we should meet with Rielbel, but we don't all need to go. I understand your first meeting with the alchemist was a bit touchy - perhaps those who are already familiar with the man would be the best to see what news or requests he has for us now." Martisan nods to Stohp and Micah, eyebrows raised at the stains on the letter they received.
"If a faction within the Hands of Love have officially registered as an adventuring group with the city, that gives us a safe, formal avenue to check for more information on this curious group. I'd rather we follow up with our fellow adventurers first, before looking for trouble on the level above or trying to trick our way into the organization. If the law-abiding Hands don't have any leads for us, or if they turn out to be less honorable than other adventurers," Martisan nods to her friends with a trouble-hungry smile, "Then we can try to draw the ruffians out, or play the innocent lover looking for a like-minded group to join. A short trip to the palace and an honest inquiry should lead us to those of Caeroldra's followers who fancy themselves adventurers."
Micah (John) HP: 16/16 AC: 17/10/17 Sunday March 27th, 2016 7:48:31 PM
Micah volunteers to be one to speak with Riebel and agrees with Martisan's suggestion to keep it a smaller delegation. To K he suggests, " Perhaps you should join us when we speak with Riebel. This man's apparent love for his daughter is more in line with your deity's sphere than what his daughter seems to have fallen into. Your presence might give him hope."
Regarding the adventuring group, he suggests, "Perhaps we should investigate further the rumors about their methods and find out where they are operating. This may be a task for the more subtle of our group."
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 14/15 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+7=25 ; Sunday March 27th, 2016 8:01:02 PM
Agrippa gives a gentle smile at Martisan's remarks, but she'll just about jump when she feels the halfling's hand on her leg (Martisan's Diplomacy = 25 (Hope it's okay if I rolled for her)). She'll cover the part of her belt where she conceals a dagger, smile turning into a grin while taking a step back.
Listening to Kay's suggestion, Agrippa will volunteer, "I can try findin' an' tailin' Rielbel's daughter while you guys try 'n find the registered adventurers. I don' know abou' sweet talkin' her until we know wha' she's drinkin' first. How 'bout we meet for lunch a' the Peacock Inn on Proud Street with our info, jus' to touch bases?" She'll suggest going in a bit of a disguise, without badges, just in case the Silver Shield's reputation precedes them.
Martisan Odenthorp (Damarr) HP: 15/15 | AC: 18 | T:14 | FF:15 Sunday March 27th, 2016 9:52:27 PM
Still smiling, Martisan raises an eyebrow at Agrippa's jumpiness. "If you think you can find the girl; tracking her down is half the trouble. All that's left after we locate these folks is sorting out the troublemakers and finding the ones that just need a nudge in the right direction. The father might have some ideas on where to start looking for the misguided lass."
The halfling pulls on her pack and checks the weapons at her belt. "I'm all for skulking through alleyways," She gives Micah a wink, "But I'm going to find the official Hands of Love adventuring group first and ask some questions there. We'll see how forthright they are about the rumors regarding their vigilante fellows. Might be they have a warehouse of their own that could use a little quiet inspection, but the fact that we're operating on the same legal grounds means our initial interactions with this group need to be handled with care. We don't know anything concrete about them; numbers, resources, connections - we should avoid making hasty enemies through a careless or deceitful approach."
"Whatever tasks we decide on, we should travel in groups no smaller than two, just to be safe. If one of you folks with a shiny new badge wants to join me in finding and contacting the registered Hands, that'll probably help add some validity to our inquiry. I'm perfectly capable of handling a bit of bureaucracy, but the folks upstairs like their visible authority."
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 14/14 AC:12/12/10 Monday March 28th, 2016 1:40:03 AM
Pesmer will gladly show off his skills of magic, doing a few prestidigitation spells and the like to try and impress her. Maybe conjure a sweet smelling rose or cause a few bits of playful fire to dance within the air. Nothing that would break his oath with the Star Mages guild, of course, but hopefully enough to impress. He will dance and laugh with Elspeth, though his skills in dancing are lacking, and will try and at least make her laugh and have fun during their night out together.
"Heh, I had a wonderful night, Martisan. Elspeth is a lovely young woman who has brought the terrible dancer out of me.." He grins down at his friend, giving her a few of the details of his date night.
"Sounds like an interesting group.. I do say we must make sure nothing foul is going on with them and this potion makers daughter. I will go with Martisan, if you are alright with it, and investigate the group. And this mask day thing is important. Who knows what is being planned."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 18/18 AC: 15/12/12 CMB: +5 Monday March 28th, 2016 2:03:46 AM
"I'll join you on the WLA excursion; you could use a suspicious mind to watch your back around these so called adventurers." Stohp tells Martisan.
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