Prudence Gundle Monday September 19th, 2016 3:09:30 PM
Pru was also looking forward to getting rid of the road dust, and is a trifle disappointed that she won't have time. She certainly won't have time to wash her hair. So she makes the best of it, washing her face and hands and brushing the worst of the dust off her uniform, before joining her Fist-mates to report to Captain Palance.
DM Warren Monday September 19th, 2016 4:06:01 PM
An Agent's duty never ends. With the dust of the road just newly washed off of faces and hands, the Agents assemble in front of the staircase and ascend in a group. There is nothing to fear here, but they are still dressed to respond to anything, as any good soldier will do.
With a quick knock to announce themselves, they present themselves to Constance in her office, which is comforting in its clutter and seeming disarray. They know that she can put any paper she needs in hand at a moment's notice, and cleaning up would only waste time she could spend on other, more important tasks.
Glad to see everyone back, safe and sound. Much quicker than I would have thought, too. Things all sorted out in Cove, then? Because if they're not, you can just march right back there until they are.
This last is said in an almost humorous way, though if it were true, you know that she would be quick to back up her threat.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 d20+16=24 ; Monday September 19th, 2016 7:29:29 PM
When Shane questions Anna about her abilities she says, "Right now I can only stay in a different form for about 5 minutes, but I think one day my lady will allow me to live as either a different humanoid, or lesser plant or animal. This is my normal form, as you can see I look different than I originally did as a druid, perhaps more comely?" She blushes.
When asked about being able to change her voice she parrots back in Shane's voice, "even their voice." (Disguise:24)
After they are in front of the commander Anna presents her with the shroud they wrested from Cybrene tells the commander its provenance and how to activate the shroud. "This shroud doesn't radiate evil commander and we even used it to bring back Tinker from death."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Monday September 19th, 2016 8:31:43 PM Ma'am, you know how we roll, we either come back with our shield or on it. Seriously, though, if we would have needed help we would have messaged you for reinforcements. The brigands were a bit more organized than we would have expected, they had AntiPaladin's in control and were...I don't know..."raising"?? a long dead necromancer named Cybine Pavillion..she came back as a ghost..we really didn't get to talk to her that much, with all the undead minions and herself trying to kill us and all..but I wonder if there is a connection between her and the ex-Field Marshall Neutronis...there was a bandit that tried to waylay us on the road to Cove, his name was Gerard and he claimed he received a bag of gold, a letter and orders to report to Cybine. The letter was signed by the "Sons of Pavillion"
OOC: I need values for the emerald neckless and earrings, the 30ft silver chain and the holy symbols to jancassis (silver or wood?).
Prudence Gundle Monday September 19th, 2016 9:51:30 PM
Pru speaks up, "We also recovered an item that we would really like the priests to look over. It isn't actually evil, but....well, considering the source, we need to be sure."
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70 Monday September 19th, 2016 9:53:32 PM
"The letter may be a bit of a mystery, but I guess it is safe to say that the 'Sons of Pavilion' did not completely perish along with him." Trayvin reads the relevant recollections of the battle with Cybrine and the trek into and through the cave from his journal. "Cove was not as damaged as we initially thought upon arrival. We saved a number of the villagers that would have died at the hands of the bandits. We assisted with repairs and took out leave when there didn't seem to be much else for us to do."
"Oh and regarding the shroud, there is some evil magic wrapped up in there too. I think we should counsel the leaders from one of the churches and figure out what to do with it."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Monday September 19th, 2016 11:40:38 PM
Nikolai waits until all who want to say something do then presents Commander Constance with the written report. "it's all written down here in much more detail. The short version is that a pirate from some time ago had tried to extend her life but ended up as a ghost. Some bandits found the cave she haunted and served as her prison and released her. It could be the Sons of Pavillion knew of her and sought her out on purpose. We'll never know. This bandit Gerard was recruiting bandits for her cause and ambushed us. He spilled the beans about Cove being under bandit control and Cybrene behind the bandit problem.
In Cove we were ambushed again and again we defeated them. The villagers told us about the old pirate tale of Cybrene and her island prison so we went there and confronted her. We put an end to her ghostly undead dreams.
There's probably still remnants of the Sons of Pavillion around since we never new how many there were, but there are some 20 or so fewer now."
DM Warren Tuesday September 20th, 2016 3:38:40 PM OOC: loot values sent via email
Constance takes in the reports calmly, waiting until everything is out, and then glancing briefly through the report and taking the shroud in her hands.
Cybrine. The name isn't familiar, but Neutronis' life before the Fist is somewhat of a mystery, and with the way he turned, I wouldn't be surprised to find some skeletons in that closet. I'll get the librarians working on any family he may have had. Having a name may clear up some questions.
I'm glad you were able to end her threat, and doubly glad that Tinker is still among the living. Sounds like there was a close call there. And I'm sure relations with Ailthmar will improve when I let them know that we've removed at least two groups of bandits from their lands.
I'll have to send to one of the larger cities to find a cleric with enough authority to determine what to do with the shroud. Unless you would like to deliver it, and then spend a couple of days leave in the city. Otherwise, you can spend a few days here resting and recovering, before I send you on your next assignment.
1000 exp and 1 hero point to all for completing the scenario!
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday September 20th, 2016 5:06:41 PM
Tinker is stoic throughout the meeting with Palance, only grumbling a little. "I wasn't THAT dead."
But the dwarf keeps quiet and frowning into himself, merely giving a regulation salute when the meeting is over before being released for a couple of days. What to do?
Well, checking out the armory, grabbing a mug and studying the recruits as they go through their drills, and a big dinner at The Last Assignment is the order of this day. Tomorrow will come soon enough.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday September 20th, 2016 8:19:19 PM
"Thank you, ma'am," Pru says when the group is dismissed. Like the others, she is looking forward to a couple of days of rest.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Tuesday September 20th, 2016 9:13:34 PM
"I'd be interested in delivering the shroud, but if the majority of the group would rather spend their leave at the citadel I won't press it." Anna says
"If we stay here we could teach the recruits tactics for dealing with exotic foes as I turn into various plants and animals. However I really would like to know more about the shroud and if Gargul would get mad if we tried to use its other power."
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70 Tuesday September 20th, 2016 9:35:50 PM
"The shroud is a Fate item. It may be important that it has been found. I think we need to know more about it. And Anna...Gargul may not be upset at the use of the other power, but I would be. Using such magic is a quick path to the road that Neutronis traveled down. I wouldn't recommend even trying it."
"My vote is for the city."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday September 20th, 2016 10:42:20 PM "We brought the item back with us, it is our responsibility. We'll take it to the city and guard it, Nikolai answers. He's not concerned whether the others agree or not. If they don't want to go, then they are free to stay.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Tuesday September 20th, 2016 10:58:57 PM Hey this would be a great time to head to Wedding city and get the guy his chocolate we can prolly find a cleric who can look at the shroud there while we are at it.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday September 21st, 2016 12:12:23 PM
Tinker shrugs and nods. Even with thier pull, he doesn't yet have the coin to purchase the advanced training. Going to Weeding City is as well as any other.
DM Warren Wednesday September 21st, 2016 5:57:00 PM
Constance confirms that Wedding City is an appropriate place to take the shroud, and a great place to take a few days off. She gives her approval to leave, should that be what the team wants to do. Until then, the shroud will be kept under lock and key and spell in her keeping.
Give me a confirmation, and I can make that happen.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Wednesday September 21st, 2016 7:53:19 PM
Anna says, "I'd be okay with a trip to Wedding city as long as I don't have to marry anyone when we get there. No offense to any of you of course, I'm just not ready to settle down yet." She smiles, "What say the rest of you?" she asks
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70 Wednesday September 21st, 2016 9:34:40 PM
"I'm not ready for marriage either." Trayvin indicates he is ready to depart as soon as everyone else is.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday September 21st, 2016 9:47:06 PM
Pru sighs a little as days of leave go flitting out the window. "Of course, if you think we should go, I'm ready to go," she says.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Wednesday September 21st, 2016 10:09:05 PM
LOL..I've heard they have some killer bachelor parties there! let's do it!
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday September 21st, 2016 10:28:16 PM
Nikolai agrees that Wedding City would be a good diversion for them. "Wedding City it is then. We can take a day to rest and deal with going to the Catacombs and exchanging the loot we don't want for goods we do, then take the trip to Wedding City. Just make sure you save enough money for some top quality chocolate there and perhaps we can find some small box that magically keeps food items fresh indefinitely."
Nikolai shrugs at the notion of marriage. 'Like we've had time to fall in love!' he muses, then cracks a smile, remembering his father's story of how he and Mom got together. It took his great grandfather's death to bring him home from the Uncharted Lands and at the funeral he met Mom. Good thing his dad and grandfather patched things up between them. Staying around the house and being relatively idle is what gave his dad time to court his mom.
Idleness... that's what did it! Get too idle and you'll fall in love. Stay busy, that was the remedy.
"If we've sorted through the loot and got all we want, we can head on over to the Catacombs now."
DM Warren Thursday September 22nd, 2016 3:15:17 PM
The Agents have varying levels of reaction to their upcoming trip, but all agree that a trip to the Catacombs is due first. Wedding city has the best chocolates, and the profits from their trip to Cove should buy enough chocolate for a good trip to see the Manfri.
The Agents make their preparations, and soon enough, they've retrieved their donkeys, horses, carts, provisions, and a letter of introduction from the Knight Commander to the Temple of Gargul in Wedding City.
It will be a journey of several days down the coast to get there, but it should be relatively peaceful, as this area is well patrolled by the Agents, as well as the guard contingents from the other cities on the coast.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday September 22nd, 2016 6:39:55 PM
Tinker isn't used to that soft bed, and so he is happy enough to be on the road, even for a relatively safe journey to Wedding City. "We've been there before, no sudden marriages to speak of", he confirms to the others thinking a little quizzically. "What does love have to do with marriage anyways?"
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70 Thursday September 22nd, 2016 9:22:08 PM
"Sometimes it has everything to do with it Tinker. Many who share ancestry with me have origins rooted in....unpleasant circumstances. But my parents love each other and married. If it wasn't for that love, I don't think I or my siblings would be around today."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Thursday September 22nd, 2016 9:29:05 PM yeah! what's love got to do with it? What's love but a second-hand emotion? Still, I'd like to love the lady I wind up with, I mean I've got to spend my life with her, it'd be nice if we loved each other. I probably won't ever get married, though...I figure the odds will catch up with me one day and I'll go visit Gargul...and even if they don't I can't really see myself working a garden and fixing things around the house. besides, I don't even think that Q is the least bit interested in me. .
Once things get settled Michael begins getting stuff together for the trip to Wedding City.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Thursday September 22nd, 2016 11:05:08 PM
"I honestly don't know who my parents are. I was raised by Kara Greeneleaf, the half-elf druidess that the Fist charged with raising me when I was deposited as a foundling on the doorstep of the citadel. I'd like to know who my parents were and if they were married or if I was born out of wedlock." Anna says as she travels down the road.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+14=17 ; Friday September 23rd, 2016 12:36:13 AM
Nikolai enjoys the soft comforts of his bed but when it is time to head out to Wedding City, he is ready. He misses the soft bed but that was one of the sacrifices he chose to make.
"There are various reasons why the identity of your parents are a mystery, Anna. Perhaps they were too young and poor to properly take care of you, or maybe it was in fulfillment of a religious vow that you were left there. However, the reason why you were dropped off at the Citadel has nothing to do with what you have made of yourself and who you've become." Nikolai hopes that these philosophical words help Anna reconcile with the probability of never knowing who her parents are, or were.
On the road, and ever vigilant, the Fist keeps a sharp eye out even in well known territory.
Perception +14 = 17
Prudence Gundle Friday September 23rd, 2016 12:59:27 AM
"My sister is getting married," Pru says softly. "Oh, not in Wedding City, of course. Back home. But she's very excited."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Friday September 23rd, 2016 12:49:39 PM Reall Pru? That's great! We aught to get her a Wedding gift and go see her on her special day! I'd like to meet your family! I never really had one, just a bunch of thieves too busy trying keep from getting heart seeded and survive, and of the folk who birthed me, well...the sea has them. Really you guys, and the Fist are the closest thing I've got to family. I'd like to see how a real family works! Any sister of yours is...well...I guess...my sister too. What do you think she would like or could use in her marriage?
DM Warren Friday September 23rd, 2016 5:02:32 PM
The Agents ponder the meanings of love, marriage, and if they really go together like a horse and carriage.
Tinker ponders duty, and knows that some marriages come from a responsibility to one's family. Trayvin thinks of his parents, and is glad of their love and the family it begat. Anna muses about who her parents could have been, but information is difficult to come by, barring some powerful magic, or maybe a fortune teller.
Pru quietly mentions the wedding of another of her sisters, and seems a bit sad that she can't be there. Still, the fact that her sister was able to write to her is uplifting, and perhaps Wedding City will have an appropriate gift to commemorate the occasion.
The road to Wedding City is just as peaceful as could be expected. Almost too peaceful. They start anticipating something coming over every ridge, but nothing ever jumps out at them. Every so often, they pass a patrol on the road, which probably has something to do with the lack of monsters and brigands.
The path has been going downhill steadily for the last day, and soon enough, the spires of the city are in view, and still just as beautiful as they remembered.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday September 23rd, 2016 8:52:46 PM
Tinker grunts, acknowledging Travin's point.
Wedding City looks the same as the last time. The dwarf smiles. I'm ts going to be a good day.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Friday September 23rd, 2016 11:49:11 PM
Michael smiles, it really is a pretty city. Hey, Tink, I bet I can eat more chocolate than you can!...no bet on Trayvin or Anna though...Half orc's have got a mean appetite and Anna could turn herself into something that could eat the world!
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Saturday September 24th, 2016 2:58:27 AM
"I would like to learn the mystery of my parentage one day." Anna says to Nikolai
"I can turn into Large Animals now so I don't know about eating the world but I imagine that I could probably eat a lot of chocolate, I just don't think i should turn into a dire wolf to do so if wolves react to chocolate like dogs do, maybe I should turn into an ape or a bear and enter your chocolate eating contest." Anna muses in response to Michael, "Though if memory serves aren't halflings like yourself renowned for their appetites with the whole second breakfast custom and all? Mayhap I'll turn into one of your brethren and compete that way."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Saturday September 24th, 2016 10:24:31 AM
Michael says with a totally straight face. HA, that's a lie put forth by vertical centric interests to keep the small man down. his voice rises in righteous indignation. 2nd breakfast! Like I have time to eat a second breakfast! what with my short legs and all it's all I can do to get to assembly on time on one breakfast. Sometimes I even have to skip brunch! and I haven't had luinner in weeks! and you can just forget about after dinner dinner! he feigns weakness and depression it's just not worth it on trail rations, and cookie closes the kitchen at 8 at the last assignment on weekdays. I'm wasting away! Look at me! I'm puny and thin! You think I could match appetites with you or Trayvin? He gets contemplative. Tinker...sure...all I'd have to do with him is put a lock in front of him and he's quit the match. I can't compete with Nickolai he's my commanding officer, and I can't compete with Pru, if I beat her it would be like kicking a puppy.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Saturday September 24th, 2016 11:57:47 AM
Nikolai keeps out of the chocolate eating contest discussion. Eating too much chocolate makes you sick to the stomach.
"You guys want to stay in the same place we stayed in last time?" Nikolai asks butting in. "First order of business is to secure a place to stay. Then we can go look for that temple of Gargul. Chocolate last."
Prudence Gundle Saturday September 24th, 2016 12:47:21 PM
Pru frowns at Michael. "Most puppies can't set you on fire," she points out.
"Yes, let's stay in the same place," she agrees.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Saturday September 24th, 2016 6:33:09 PM
Tinker smiles indulgently at the conversation until Michael mentions a lock. And his hands start to itch; it's been more than two weeks since he last picked a lock. Tinker stuffs his hands roughly under his armpits and flowers at Michael.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Sunday September 25th, 2016 11:17:08 PM
ooc: Sorry guys, I'm having a bit of trouble convincing the catacombs that he owes us 36,950.9 instead of 33,642.9. could one of you double check my numbers and his on the Catacomb board?
DM Warren Monday September 26th, 2016 3:04:58 PM
Michael, as always, provides some levity after a long, though generally pleasant trip. In the course of his plans though, he seems to have forgotten that he needs to save some chocolate for the manfri, else they will have to do this trip again after their next windfall!
The Agents quickly settle on using their previous accommodations, and are settled in with a bath and a good meal before heading off to the religious district.
The temple to Gargul is easy to find, as familiar as they have all become with his motif. Carrying around his holy symbol on a chain helped a bit as well. Having come near the middle of the day, there are no services going on, but priests are within and without the temple, going about their business.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Monday September 26th, 2016 9:03:20 PM
Red potatoes, pheasant smoked over alder wood, with a cranberry reduction. greens and Apple pie with cheddar cheese. The fish was good, but man it's good to be around real food again. After they enter the temple Michael looks curiously around the temple grounds, then asks to be directed to someone who could identify an artifact for them.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Monday September 26th, 2016 9:17:29 PM
Oddly enough, Nikolai worries a little. They are not used to things working as smoothly as things have so far. The Mailed Fist may not have a bad reputation in Wedding City, but enemies of the Mailed Fist can show up anywhere and at any time.
Leaving their horses and wagon in the inn's stable, they head to the streets and find Gargul's temple. Good thing it isn't busy. Accosting the first priest he can get his (or hers) attention, he asks, "We need to speak to your chief priest on some very important matter." Their Mailed Fist uniforms serve as introduction as to who they are.
Prudence Gundle Monday September 26th, 2016 9:30:36 PM
Pru stands aside and lets Nikolai take the lead, because Nikolai is really smart. And tall. And his hair looks really nice today....
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70 Monday September 26th, 2016 9:47:46 PM
Trayvin hasn't much to say at the moment. He waits for the priest to indicate whether or not they would be admitted. Instead he thinks about the chocolate, he's never had any and wonders what all the fuss is about.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Monday September 26th, 2016 10:53:44 PM
Anna waits for the temple leader to show differing to Nikolai. What could she say the man's hairdo lent him a commanding presence.
DM Warren Tuesday September 27th, 2016 6:00:06 PM
The priest that they find looks a bit confused at first. He seems to recognize the Fist uniforms but is confused at why they would be there asking for the head priest.
Chief Priest - hmmn, he should be available. But it is very irregular to ask to see him without an appointment. Who did you say you were, and why do you need the chief priest's attention? An artifact of some kind, your friend said?
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70 Tuesday September 27th, 2016 7:48:42 PM
"We're Agents of the Mailed Fist, here on official business." Trayvin will let someone else explain the artifact part, might not be a good idea to say too much up front.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Tuesday September 27th, 2016 7:52:13 PM
Michael, was too busy being stunned by the rapture which is his bosses hair to feel the groove of where his boss was going with all of this. so he stays shut up and lets his boss field the questions. but he smiles and tries to look friendly to try and set the priest at ease.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday September 27th, 2016 8:11:24 PM
Tinker stays silent, making himself look like he's on official business.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Tuesday September 27th, 2016 8:34:29 PM
Anna continues to study Nikolai's hair trying to commit every detail to memory. She plans to adopt that hairstyle at some point in the future if she needs to morph into a male humanoid. She smiles at the cleric and chimes in what she knows about the artifact should it become relevant after Nikolai has responded.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday September 27th, 2016 9:55:54 PM
"Yes." Pru smiles. That usually helps most situations. "You see, we found this artifact, and we're pretty sure it isn't actually evil, but, you know, we are just soldiers. We wanted to get an expert opinion."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday September 27th, 2016 10:27:03 PM "To be more exact, we are Nikolai's Fist. And I'm Nikolai. Agents of the Mailed Fist are often given the task to find someone to identify things that are found and brought to the Citadel. As complete as our records are, they can't cover everything, and Gargul is one god we don't have much on. As far as artifact goes, anything found that we can't identify becomes labeled [b]Artifact. We came here as Wedding City is one of the larger cities with a temple to Gargul.
Now, it may be that it is nothing, but we'd like your Chief Priest take a look at it and get his own opinion so we can update our records correctly.
So, we need an appointment? Let's make one right now. How's 5 minutes from now sound? 10 maybe?"[/b]
Nikolai makes the appointment request in a casual manner, attempting not sound threatening.
DM Warren Wednesday September 28th, 2016 9:50:08 AM
The possibility of an artifact of Gargul coming back to the church is enough to convince this man that they should be admitted. That does seem important. Come with me then, we'll see if he is free.
The priest leads the Agents back through the vestibule to a waiting area outside a large wooden door, intricately carved and painted with scenes from Gargul's scripture. Wait here a moment.
He knocks quietly before opening the door and slipping inside. A few minutes pass before he returns. High Priest Hobbes will see you now. He escorts you inside an austere looking office, with a man wearing the robes of the high priesthood sitting behind a desk that is a fair bit neater than the Knight Commander's.
Welcome to the Lord Gargul's house in Wedding City, Nikolai's Fist. I hear you bring an artifact that may be of the church? Please, tell me how you came by it.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) d3=2 ; d20+8=11 ; Wednesday September 28th, 2016 7:14:03 PM
Tinker tries to think if he has heard of High Priest Hobbes before, and pass that information to Nikolai and Anna for help with the negotiations.
Know Local. 11
Prudence Gundle Wednesday September 28th, 2016 8:09:28 PM
"We slew an evil undead," Pru replies. "This was...well, it's hard to describe. In her possession? Anyway, it was left after the battle was done."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Wednesday September 28th, 2016 8:38:03 PM
"The shroud was all that was left from an incorporeal undead creature leading what appeared to be a cult. I cast detect magic on the shaw and determined that if you say one command word it can revive someone from the dead or near dead if you act fast enough. Saying another command word creates an undead minion from a recently slain corpse. It can only achieve these effects once a day. We used it to bring Tinker back from the dead but we have not used the other ability. Would Gargul be offended if we did? I admit there is some division among us in contemplating the other use. Trayvin is staunchly opposed to it, but I wonder if there might be some circumstance where it could be justified." Anna explains to priest Hobbes.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70 Wednesday September 28th, 2016 9:54:04 PM
Trayvin has nothing to add, he nods in agreement with the recounted story, especially the part where he disagrees with using the other power of the shroud. He walks around Priest Hobbes' office looking at anything interesting. "I have studied and learned information regarding all of the deities, but I admit I know the least about Gargul. Would you mind explaining some of the more intricate parts of the religion?"
Trayvin was especially interested in finding out why Gargul would allow an item of his to have both good and evil powers. He thought Gargul had given up all the evil aspects of his domain.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Wednesday September 28th, 2016 10:10:10 PM
Michael cannot contain himself when it comes to a good story!
we were contracted to do some charity work for Asildur, specifically, there were bandits around a fishing village called Cove that they wanted to be eliminated. Turns out a long time ago there were pirates and a necromancer named Cybine Pavillion, they hid some treasure in a secret base on an island, she did a bunch of necromancy things got killed and the tomb sealed. well these bandits under the "sons of Neutronis" which was our ex-field marshall "Pavillion Neutronis" personal bully boys, opened the tomb and got a bunch of bandits together to give her ghost a small army of undead servants. Well, at least until we showed up...then Pru was like...fireball..pew..pew.. Nikolai was like...Falcon Punch! and Anna was like..choppy chop chop. Trayvin was like...YOU SHALL NOT PASS! Tinker was like...well..he died...and I was like...Man, you can't backstab a zombie! so when they small army was dead...well ...re-dead...cybine dropped some loot...show him...who's got it? anyway, it brought tinker back to life! but maybe it didn't... It could have been my CPR...I don't know...be we need to know what it is. Man. ya'll have really good coffee in this city!
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday September 28th, 2016 10:22:25 PM
Nikolai listens and nods as Anna briefly explains the method of acquisition of the shroud.
"That's pretty much it. Full details can be found in the Mailed Fist Archives. The undead entity mentioned was actually using the shroud to animate the corps of those she killed to build an army of undead. We don't have the desire to do such a thing but it certainly worked in our favor to bring Tinker back from the edges of the Woldsblood River. A couple of things we need to know, if possible, is who is the creator of it and why the dual purpose use, one for great evil and one for good. Next we need to know if Gargul himself is offended if it is used to bring back one that is crossing that bridge of Life before he's gone too far. And then, anything else you can figure out from it, of course."
Nikolai motions for Anna to show him the shroud.
DM Warren Thursday September 29th, 2016 1:27:23 PM Well I can tell you one thing with certainty. If The Lord Gargul was displeased with the use of the shroud's power, he would have made it known by now. If Tinker had not yet entered his realm, then Lord Gargul would not yet consider him to be in his power. Tinker's will to protect his friends and Anna's quick use of the shroud's power prevented you needing to petition for his resurrection.
He takes the shroud and casts the same spell that Anna had to examine it, carefully inspecting the weave and material, trying to ascertain its secrets.
Even the greatest force of good can become corrupted under the wrong circumstances. This artifact may have been given freely and used for good, saving those that had eaten spoiled food, or come out the womb not breathing. Somehow, this creature you slayed came into possession of it, and either through great evil, she corrupted it, or some trauma corrupted the shawl and the late Miss Pavilion. Who knows how many hands it may have passed through before coming to that place.
I can undergo a ritual to remove the less savory aspect of the shroud, should Lord Gargul tell me that is the correct path. If not, it will be locked away where another cannot make use of it. But I must thank you for delivering it to us here, where it can be protected.
I would offer you a reward for your part in the artifact's recovery. 1000 gold pieces for each of you seems appropriate for your service.
Michael doesn't know anything other than what he's learned here about this High Priest.
He is more than willing to elucidate on some of the mysteries around the worship of Gargul, and recommends attending their service at nightfall should they wish to hear more.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday September 29th, 2016 6:22:19 PM
Tinker is very ... Well, he doesn't really have a word to describe it, but he doesn't like people always talking about how he died and is not dead. Why him? Why twice in his short life? Why not others who would deserve it more.
Tinker remains silent and doesn't contribute much. He continues to be uncomfortable. That's the word, vey uncomfortable about the whole thing.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Thursday September 29th, 2016 9:05:12 PM
"While my services are sworn to my lady Queen Ma'ab and I am an emissary of her consort Lord Eberyon, I am not disrespectful towards the other powers and deities in the Wold. If we would not be interrupting may we attend the service where you ask for Lord Gargul's guidance?" Anna asks
"Furthermore if he instructs you to purify the shroud and remove its negative aspect may we have the cleansed shroud back or do you have another use to which it may be put to more good? The way I understand these legacy items is that they are hard to get rid of and I can't help but wonder if it may have come into our possession for a greater purpose than just saving Tinker." She follows up.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70 Thursday September 29th, 2016 9:15:03 PM
"I am content to abide Gargul's decision regarding the shroud. Who are we to gainsay a god? I'd like to attend the service, I would find it interesting to learn more."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Thursday September 29th, 2016 10:48:42 PM our service gives us few opportunities to attend services to the Gods of the wold, I would be honored to attend tonight. and thank you for the gift.
Michael bows deeply and with a flourish.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Thursday September 29th, 2016 11:26:10 PM
Nikolai wasn't as interested in the service but considering their line of work, he decides it's not a bad idea after all.
He speculates on what Cybrene had intended. "My guess is that Cybrene wanted to become a Lich. Since the process is dangerous and prone to fail, her lieutenant pirate was to use the shroud to bring her back so she could try again. He didn't do that and her spirit, in such a rage of anger thus became a ghost instead. But that's just a wild guess."
After each have given their thoughts about the shroud, he says, "Well, in our line of work, where we face death from blade or spell on a regular basis, keeping the shroud seems the most logical thing to do. But if it is going to be used on a daily basis to save a child born entangled, or save the mother who bleeds out, or the father who fell off a scaffold, or any other such thing, then it most certainly will get far more use left here," he says, however he makes no decision yet.
"Well discuss this, and have a decision tonight after the service. For now, at least, try to remove the evil half of shroud."
Prudence Gundle Friday September 30th, 2016 12:50:13 AM
Pru smiles. "I'm looking forward to attending services this evening," she says. "As Michael said, we don't get a lot of opportunity for this kind of thing."
DM Warren Friday September 30th, 2016 11:00:01 PM you are most welcome to attend public services, but the consultation and ritual will be confined to the priesthood. I will likely have to send for others to assist in the cleansing, if that is what must be done.
I doubt this Cybrine was a ghost. If so, she would have made herself known again by now. Can you tell me how she acted? She may have been some other sort of undead creature with nothing to the her to the physical world.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Saturday October 1st, 2016 2:16:25 AM She pierced me with her gaze and I felt panic try to take control of me, I was able to fight it off, but I was still shaken for a bit. I did see her pass through a wall like a ghost. Tinker and Trayvin can tell you more, she actually touched them. .
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Saturday October 1st, 2016 11:14:09 AM
Tinker frowns, an instant of resentment against Michael for being put on the spot. But then duty, that harsh mistress, stiffens his resolve and forces him to speak.
"The monster moved through the cave walls and appeared in front of me, just casually reaching through my armor before I could dodge. Her touch was very cold and everything went shadowy. And I dreamed of red sparkling lines in the air."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Saturday October 1st, 2016 1:24:04 PM "She had all the looks of a ghost, but she had a shriek too. She was incorporeal and very hard to hit, like trying to hit through a fog. Sometimes we thought we hit but actually missed. And only magic weapons had any effect. Magic Missile worked just fine, though. That doesn't say a whole lot, there are quite a number of incorporeal undead and she could be, or could have been, a one-of-a-kind. I looked up Ghosts in our library and typically a ghost's touch ages the victim, but that aging should not have much effect on dwarves and elves. Her touch actually killed outright."
Prudence Gundle Saturday October 1st, 2016 6:38:50 PM
"And she commanded a group of bandits," Pru adds. "Though that may just have been by promising them things if they did what she said."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Sunday October 2nd, 2016 5:06:48 PM
"Actually I had a chat with one of the cult members when I disguised myself as the leader of a bandit subgroup we encountered in the field. He told me that she visited them in their dreams and that they believe that they join with her in death. He tried to commit suicide to rejoin her since he was captured." Anna mentions
DM Warren Monday October 3rd, 2016 4:10:41 PM Hmmn: A frightening gaze, a deadly touch, attacking through walls, and messages in dreams? Sounds like the makings of a kamarupa. And if you destroyed her, then there is no fear of her returning, and you have done this world a service.
The high priest answers any other questions they may have, but soon moves to dismiss them so he can go about his work, and prepare to contact Lord Gargul about what should be done with the shroud. The Agents, having discharged their duty, are free to do as they wish in Wedding City, and with pockets full of gold, almost any diversion is within their reach.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday October 3rd, 2016 8:15:46 PM
Hmmm. Says Tinker. Chocolate?
With thier take, Tinker may have just enough to finally blow that Manfri Whistle and trade Wedding City chocolate for Sargrass armor.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Monday October 3rd, 2016 8:58:22 PM
"I'll go with you to the chocolate-er but I am not sure if I will buy enough to get a sargrass weapon or shield. Seeing as metal is no longer forbidden to me my mythral full plate seems to be adequate and as I understand sargrass it makes weaker versions than standard shields and armor. Maybe I'll buy enough to get a dagger or something made as a souvenir?" She says
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Monday October 3rd, 2016 9:21:32 PM
Nikolai figures he could learn more about this kamarupa undead thing from a library and not waste this good man's time with a bunch of questions. While studying this thing he can write down any questions and then have some intelligent conversation with him.
"Thank you so much for your time. We are rather relieved she's not coming back, for the town's sake. We'll stay around in town for a few days until we hear Gargul's response to the shroud. We'll keep in touch," he thanks the priest.
Getting confirmation on the time of their regular services, he follows his friends out of the temple. Tinker mentions chocolate and Nikolai grins wide. "Thanks for Michael's hard work in the catacombs with all our loot, each share ended up being 5,104.66 gold coins. After subtracting out my magic bow and the tanglefoot back, that left me with a total of 3,779.66 gold. That should by a lot of chocolate. We do need to make sure we get the best of the best, though. Typically, the locals know who's the best. Let's do some chocolate scouting. Michael? Tinker? You guys with the best noses for chocolate, start sniffing for the best."
Prudence Gundle Monday October 3rd, 2016 9:45:51 PM
Pru smiles. "No chocolate for me," she says. "I'm off to the Catacombs."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+6=26 ; d20+14=29 Monday October 3rd, 2016 9:54:59 PM
Micheal is a bit confused, How did the cleric know that this was one of their artifacts? He does not know much about artifacts, but 7000gp is a cheap price for an item of that power. Still, if Trayvin and the rest are okay with it, he isn't going to say anything. he does try to discern if the cleric is being duplicitous, though.
sense motive 26 (Nat 20!!)
As his boss commands he starts snooping for really good chocolate. first off he looks for chocolatiers, finding some he watches to see which one has the most customers, rated against the wealth of the patrons. in other words, busy and rich= 5 star busy and poor= 4 stars he's lookng for the best, though...not necessarily the most expensive so obviously some sampling will be in order. He buys small samples from his 4 best picks. 7 from each or 28 total. he has each of the boxes labled 1 through 4. once he gets this he takes it back to the party and they sample the chocolates the one that is the clear winner of the 4 will be the one we pick.
perception:29
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70 Tuesday October 4th, 2016 10:07:07 PM
"Well, looks like some shopping is in order. I must admit to being a little concerned though, we just dropped off a rather powerful item with very little knowledge of those who now have it. Maybe while we are shopping we could find out more about this temple and the people running it."
OOC- sorry about the missed posts, family emergency. Should be back to normal now though. Also, I could use a 'final breakdown' of Trayvin's share of treasure.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday October 4th, 2016 10:23:40 PM
Pru does accompany her fist-mates to buy quality chocolates, and makes suggestions about which ones look the nicest. Her mind, however, is on her trip to the Catacombs.
DM Warren Tuesday October 4th, 2016 10:28:46 PM
All attempts to find ulterior motives come up empty. This high priest seems to be on the level.
The 7000 is less a payment than a reward for returning an item that belongs to the church. It is a mark of appreciation.
Michael goes a scouting, and he finds the best of the best. The rumors that the chocolate here is the best is certainly not exaggerated. He does his best to bring the same favors from each different chocolaterie.
It is somewhat a matter of preference. One place has the best tempering, another has the more flavorful ganache. The caramel at once place is rich and smooth, and the choices of fruit are exotic and adventurous at the last. It may come down to buying out several places of their daily stock, but each of the choices are superb. Hopefully, the manfri is not allergic to anything.
Unlike the others, Pru is all business and heads off to buy herself something shiny.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday October 4th, 2016 11:33:30 PM
Since the church seems to prefer to lay claim to the shroud and a sum of 7,000 gold coins for the reward in returning it was offered, Nikolai adds 1,166 gold coins to his money pouch, the remainder of silver and copper he drops in the church's charity box.
"Since we really don't know the Manfri's preference, I suggest we buy an equal amount of each kind. Some with filling, some plain dark pure chocolate, some with nuts, and whatever else. Now the question is, how much? 1,000 gold? 3,000 gold? Is there going to be any chocolate left in town by the time we are done? Are the authorities going to think we are trying to corner the market and create a rush on chocolate to inflate the price?
One thing is for sure, once we buy the chocolate, we must immediately call upon the Manfri in order for him to get have it all as fresh as can be."
Nikolai still does not really know what he'll be asking for.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday October 4th, 2016 11:49:51 PM
The Manfri's words come to mind, 'When you want to return, blow this flute. Any tune will do, and you will return here. In exchange for the Steelgrass, I want chocolates. Not just any chocolates, but some from Wedding city! When you have your Steel-grass wish in mind, the will of the Sargrass will guide you. It's always spoiled me, and I suspect it shall do so in this endeavor as well, hoo ho!'
Nikolai will think on it overnight.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Wednesday October 5th, 2016 12:54:28 AM
(OOC: What was the exchange rate on the chocolate? I know it is at least 310 for the masterwork Ranseur. I think I'm going to go for a heavy reach weapon at a lower weight, so it should be only 4 lbs for a reach disarm weapon)
"I think I want a ranseur on second thought. It is a lot more practical than a dagger since it gives new options. in combat" Anna says.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday October 5th, 2016 5:49:16 AM
Tinker also doesn't know how many chocolates they need to bring to the Manfri. He follows along and thinks about it, picking up a flavor here and there, until he has 1000gp worth of Wedding City chocolate. "That should be enough for some masterwork half-plate", he says guardedly.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Wednesday October 5th, 2016 10:36:08 AM
Michael still does not quite know what he wants as well, the only thing he really truly wants is to get that weaver some chocolates with which to pass his lonely vigil. He picks the best of each chocolate from each confectioner for his lot. laying down 1000gp for the lot of it. he may only get a breastplate...or perhaps something else...He wonders if the allotment could include instructions on how to create Steelgrass instead of an actual item? maybe with the promise that he will teach the technique to no one save his children in return. if not that then maybe a Steelgrass spear for Pru, he has noticed how she struggles with her spear, maybe a lighter one would be of benefit to her....he keeps his own counsel on the matter, reserving his final decision on what to get until things develop more.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday October 5th, 2016 3:33:31 PM
Pru returns from the Catacombs looking no different, except for a lighter purse. And has she actually gotten prettier? Because it's a little ridiculous at this point.
She is willing to help with the Great Chocolate Hunt, but she has no interest in any Steelgrass items.
[OOC: As I recall, you essentially spend enough gold on the chocolate to cover the gp cost of the Steelgrass items. And that's either Masterwork cost or double Masterwork cost; I don't remember.]
DM Warren Wednesday October 5th, 2016 3:40:06 PM Pru is correct - 1:1 ratio of gold spent. 1000gp of chocolate buy 1000gp of steelgrass item, which will be masterwork (300 weapon, 150 armor).
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70 Wednesday October 5th, 2016 9:30:04 PM
Trayvin doesn't have much interest in the steelgrass items, so he just does a bit of shopping at the catacombs.
"I wonder how long we will have to wait to see what will become of the shroud?"
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday October 5th, 2016 10:51:56 PM
Tinker has a good time in Wedding City, and tries to put the whole dying from a touch thing behind him
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 d20+9=24 ; Wednesday October 5th, 2016 11:09:46 PM
(OOC: so it is 1000 + MW + weapon cost?)
Anna plays her guitar while waiting for someone to lead the way to the Manfri after she made sure she had enough chocolate for the Ransuer. (Perform: 24)
DM OOC: sorry - that was just an example. Steelgrass Ranseur is 310 gp
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday October 5th, 2016 11:31:57 PM
OOC: er, no. Ranseur = 10gp, MW = 300gp, so for a MW Ranseur made of Steelgrass = 310gp worth in chocolate, a 1:1 ratio. A +1 Ranseur would add 2000gp in chocolate to that. I think that's the way it works. Special discount for us I think.
IC: Nikolai can't think of anything specific that he needs in steelgrass like armor and such and he already has a strong magic kama, but he does not want to go empty handed to see the manfri. So he settles on a steelgrass nunchaku of masterwork quality. He savors the chocolates following Michael's example and ends up with an assortment of various types of chocolates worth 400gp, enough for a MW nunchaku and some left over as gift.
"I need to make a trip to the catacombs as well. Pru, are you taller? You look, well, I can't put my finger on it, but, maybe its that extra sparkle in your eyes..." Nikolai trails off, turning a little red with embarrassment.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70 Thursday October 6th, 2016 9:30:14 PM
Trayvin can't dismiss all the chocolate talk anymore. He buys a few small pieces just to try it out. "Hmmm." Doesn't look like much. Actually it kinda reminds him of something gross. With a scrunched up not sure that he will like this look on his face, he eats the chocolate......
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Thursday October 6th, 2016 11:09:31 PM
Nikolai it at a loss of words at Trayvin's apparent dislike of chocolate. He shrugs. Oh well.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Thursday October 6th, 2016 11:40:15 PM
(OOC: To clarify Anna has purchased 310 gp worth of chocolate for a masterwork steelglass ranseur)
Anna takes stock of her chocolate. Among her various offerings she has some chocolate covered pretzels, chocolate covered cherries, truffles, white chocolate, dark chocolate and milk chocolate. She hopes the Manfri will like her picks.
Prudence Gundle Friday October 7th, 2016 12:48:53 AM
"Um....well, thank you, Nikolai." Pru does some blushing of her own. "It's just an enchantment, really. On my headband, so I can cast spells better."
DM Warren Friday October 7th, 2016 7:06:34 AM
Purchases are made, from both the chocolate shops and the Catacombs. They have not heard from the High Priest yet, but from what he said, gathering the appropriate clergy and performing the ritual will be a matter of weeks, not hours. Once all business is handled, the Agents reconvene for the playing of the grass whistle.
A tune is played, which rings out high and sweet, before the whistle unweaves itself into a portal that looks into a familiar expanse of multitudes of grasses, and a cheerful man waving in excitement for them to come through.
The manfri is excited to hear of their most recent exploits, and has tales to share as well, between chews of chocolate at least. He puts the rest of his saccharine loot into a bag at his hip, and asks what things he can make for his friends.
As they talk, he weaves the steelgrass into their weapons of choice, which is a strange process to watch, though it is quickly forgotten. It seems that the technique protects itself from those that have not grown up with it, much to Michael's disappointment. All too soon, their items are done, and it is time to return to their own world, and the responsibilities of the Mailed Fist. He offers to transport them directly back to the citadel, and assures them that anything left behind in Wedding City will make the trip as well.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday October 7th, 2016 4:24:50 PM
Tinker steps through the portal to the little man called a Manfri. As before, the heat punches him like a physical blow, and he immediately begins sweating. Tinker's not sure how the Manfri can live here, "let alone not let the chocolate melt. But then again, that's his choice.
The weaving of the grasses is both fascinating and forgetful. Tinker swears that it was a special grass and some mud crawling with insects, but that is just too crazy to get such a fine piece of armor!
Thankfully, thier stay is short and quickly they are back to the Citadel. "Nice magic!"
Prudence Gundle Friday October 7th, 2016 9:07:29 PM
Pru enjoys the outing, even though she herself isn't interested in a Steelgrass item. She does enjoy watching the process and being with her friends.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70 Friday October 7th, 2016 9:13:38 PM
Trayvin had never had any chocolate before. It turns out he likes it. He likes it so much in fact, that instead of trading any to the manfri, he keeps a small supply for future enjoyment and to hand out to children in towns the Agents will inevitably pass through.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Friday October 7th, 2016 10:55:48 PM
Stepping through the portal Nikolai smells the strong scent of the grass. He is glad to be in a place of Peace for a change.
The Manfri, in his own way, is all business, and Nikolai hands him his box of assorted chocolates. In return, he receives a nunchaku made of steelgrass. Someday he'll put some other enchantments on it. He is very pleased to have helped the Manfri pass his time with some sweet memories.
Not having left anything at their inn except an unpaid bill, he hopes that the local Mailed Fist office will dutifully pay it and get their wagon back as well.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Saturday October 8th, 2016 1:21:27 AM
Michael enjoys the Sargrass plains, the floating barge never ceased to amaze him, and for once he is actually bigger than someone! He talks with the little Manfri, looks over the new Steelgrass breastplate he has just received. it's a work of art. When he tries it on it fits like a second skin. the decreased armor vs his mithril chain shirt is a bummer, but he is sure he will find a use for it. he uses the rest of his allotment of chocolate to have the Manfri make Steelgrass long spear for Pru since she's too selfless to want anything for herself. Man she's pretty...I hope she likes it. it occurs to him that he has never heard the little Manfris name...so he asks.
Thank you sir, for your gift to us, I hope you enjoy your chocolates as well. I'd like to know your name, Mine is Michael Wittman.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Sunday October 9th, 2016 1:38:45 PM
Anna hadn't been with the group last time they saw the Manfri.
"As you know the Mailed Fist roster keeps changing but I was informed of your generous offer and have brought you a small pile of chocolate I was hoping to exchange for a steelgrass ranseur. I appreciate the generous offer you have made." She says.
"My name is Anna Morphling and I am an agent of the Fist emissary of King Eberyon and servant of my Lady Queen Ma'ab."
She says to the crafter offering her hand.
After she has the Ranseur she experiments with its heft before returning with the others to the citadel.
DM Warren Monday October 10th, 2016 7:09:00 PM
The Agents have a vague remembrance of a lovely time spent sampling chocolates and watching their host weave steel strong blades of grass into their equipment. But the exact techniques he used, and even his name, are a fleeting memory. It seems that the Manfri have ways of protecting their secrets.
The Agents return to the Citadel and the mood seems much lighter. It is still not light and airy, but it has improved from the last time the Agents returned from a mission. When they report to Palance about successfully delivering the shroud, she seems distracted, and she thanks them and dismisses them rather quickly from her office, and says that the Agents are free to take some time to relax. She mentions that Rusty at the Last Assignment had mentioned in his way that he wanted a chance to catch up, but the Agents suspect he just wants to hear the latest gossip from the people that were most recently out of the Citadel.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Monday October 10th, 2016 9:04:07 PM
Anna spends some time practicing with her new Ranseur seeing as how she doubts she'll need to use her SLAs for the immediate future she practices wielding the Ranseur while large sized as well. (OOC: if I use enlarge person while wielding the Ranseur does it's range become 15 ft or 20 ft?)
She later joins her friends at the Last Assignment for a drink.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Monday October 10th, 2016 9:44:40 PM
the talk of wedding city and marriage have gotten Micheal to thinking, so while the rest fo the party goes off doing whatever Michael goes down to the Quartermasters to flirt with Q.
he follows the rules he was taught on humint and social engineering
1, he puts on a genuine smile 2. he approaches Q in a way that is forthright and open. 3. He asks leading questions, that get her to talk about herself. 4 he compliments her or finds something about her that is deserving of praise and does so. he is in this for the long haul, so over the course of this, he will vary the praise schedule in a random manner. some days a lot of compliments while none to a few on others. 5. while doing all of this he actually tries to befriend her and get to know her. 6. if he receives no positive feedback within one week he will abandon the endeavor, a woman makes up her mind about a man within the first 15 minutes of meeting him. if i don't notice interest in a week, there is no use beating a dead horse.
Prudence Gundle Monday October 10th, 2016 10:03:47 PM
Pru checks to see if there is a letter for her, and, regardless of whether there is one, writes a letter to send home,
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70 Monday October 10th, 2016 10:43:46 PM
Trayvin spends the downtime working out in the Citadel forge. He hammers out some mundane tools, nails, and whatever else the Citadel may need.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Monday October 10th, 2016 11:09:40 PM
Nikolai first takes care of Fist business, writing up the report and so forth then takes his new steelgrass nunchaku out for practice. It weighs differently but he soon has it down. One of these days he'll need to enchant it further. He also astounds those out at the practice field as they watch him practice walking on paper and not leaving the slightest mark. He astounds them even more when he tells them to make a path of caltrops and he walks over them without any hindrance or a scratch. He merely grins.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday October 11th, 2016 8:31:57 PM
Tinker is very happy to be back at the Citadel. Time at home, at the armory, among the training firlds, and resting at night with his froends at the Last Assignment... the dwarf has the time of his life!
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Tuesday October 11th, 2016 9:28:24 PM
The forge work was good. Trayvin forgot how much he missed it. It reminded him of home and family.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday October 11th, 2016 10:07:38 PM
Once she has sent her letter, Pru wanders over to the Last Assignment to speak to Rusty.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Tuesday October 11th, 2016 10:40:37 PM
When the initial contact with Q is done, he invites her to the last assignment for some relaxation with friends. he then wanders over to see what Rusty has to say. He gets some sheppards pie and a beer while there.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday October 11th, 2016 11:27:31 PM
Nikolai finishes his training and heads for the Last Assignment to meet up with his mates and friends and catch up on any news from around. How were things going with their neighbors? How were the other Fists doing?
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Wednesday October 12th, 2016 12:32:55 AM
Anna is sitting at a table nursing a cup of mead at the Last Assignment when she notices Pru enter. The red headed morphling waves to Pru as she enters the bar.
DM Warren Wednesday October 12th, 2016 9:43:28 AM
ooc: new job started so I was in the field all day, phone wouldn't let me post, and then my computer had to update at home. Sorry!
While hanging around the Last Assignment Inn, the Agents hear several rumors: Marauding tribes of gnolls in the north are becoming more active. Mysterious sailing vessels have been spotted on the horizons to the south. An evil witch was killed near Sandrill Crossing. The Mailed fist will be disbanded. Griffins are battling enemies in the mountains.
At some point, a messenger will enter from the library. The messenger is a teenage boy, who the Agents may recognize as their recent friend Thogo, back from Echo Dwelling. He has been dispatched from the library and told to find the Agents with news that the librarian Luna has information for them.
When they reach the library, the will find that the library is in a much better state than when they last saw it. The librarians have been hard at work trying to clean up the mess that was made by the paper golem. Luna is sitting at a desk, sorting papers and looks up when the group arrives.
“We have found one clue, one piece of paper that we cannot make sense of yet, but I thought I should share it with you. This piece of paper we managed to salvage from the very heart of the strange paper-beast. It is torn along the edges and the corners of the paper is burnt. After careful examination, we have found three letters on one side of the paper, but we do not know what they might mean. We are still working to examine more of the papers that we have gathered and to discover the source of the monster.”
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday October 12th, 2016 8:43:03 PM
Tinker enjoys his time with his friends and is interested in the rumors, especially about the gnolls and griffins. "I owe the gnolls some payback", he growls, but is more worried that just the word 'griffin' is going to make Michael over-excited! The messenger from the library comes just I. Time.
Tinker waits patiently until he can't wait any more. "Well, what are the three letters?", he growls.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Wednesday October 12th, 2016 9:22:18 PM
The rumors are interesting and most of them would likely merit some investigation. Enough to keep the Agents busy for awhile. Trayvin mentions to the group that we should follow up with Palance and see if any of them are worthy of an assignment.
Trayvin isn't sure what to make of the librarians message. You..ummm wanted to see us right. I'm not sure that any of us are experienced researchers, so is there something we can do to help with this problem?"
OOC- no worries Warren, life happens.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday October 12th, 2016 10:05:12 PM
Pru gives a guilty start when she learns that the mysterious paper is partly burnt. She had nobly refrained from hurling fire spells inside the library, but once the fight had moved outside....
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Wednesday October 12th, 2016 10:30:56 PM just three letters? Man Pru, That was a lot of paper! you blew it to ash! AWESOME. Do the three letters mean anything? and Yeah, I'd love to go after the griffons, but if the Gnoll prophet is starting to mobilize it could destabilize this entire region. Remember guys he was trying to colonize the swamps to relieve population pressure when gnoll tribes get too big they swarm and try to acquire more territory, they do this until enough of them are killed or enough territory is taken to even things out. If he's got all the tribes cooperating, that means he's gonna have a really big army and a lot of mouths to feed, which means he will put his eyes squarely on where the most food and good land is, that's this region. Of course, if we had Griffons to ride, we could fly over those thousands of troops he has and get into his rear areas, where we would have a much better chance of finding him.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 d20+19=29 ; d20+13=21 ; d20+8=14 ; d20+7=20 ; Wednesday October 12th, 2016 11:08:51 PM
Anna takes all the news in "What about the witch, the vessels and the Fist breaking up?"
"Does anyone know who her patron was?" She asks
Later at the library she asks to examine the paper. Assuming her request is granted she grabs a scroll of CR 1 Cleric detect magic from her magic bag and easily casts the spell (UMD 29)
She then carefully examines the scrap of paper (Know[arcana]:21, spellcraft 14, Perception 20)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday October 12th, 2016 11:35:43 PM
The gnolls are of more interest to Nikolai than the other things. The Fist breaking up? Didn't that happen already? The wicked witch is dead, looks like no work to be done there. An ocean voyage is not appealing to Nikolai at this time. Help the griffins? That would be the most interesting, but the most pressing would seem to be the gnolls again. There is a lot of unfinished business with those gnolls.
"Thogo, is there any word from the Fist that was keeping an eye on that bloodroot tree the gnolls were using to teleport? I'm hoping that watch post was not abandoned due to the war. It could be that the gnolls think that with the Mailed Fist only a fraction of its size will prevent us from pushing them back. We'll need to see Commander Pallance about this."
Nikolai lets his friends investigate the sheets of paper with the writing and sits back to watch them work while sipping on his ale.
DM Warren Thursday October 13th, 2016 3:35:58 PM
"Oh, no help is necessary. We just thought you'd line an update. The letters are P, R, and U. Huh, hadn't noticed that connection before, maybe that's a new line of research we can pursue. "
Thr Agents are interested in several of the rumors, for different reasons. The Witch sounds a lot like the kamarupa that the Agents hust dispatched, and no evidence can be attached to the breakup of the Fist. The others certainly merit more research, and maybe a mission from Palabce is in store.
Thogo pleads ignorance, saying he is only a simple page, and doesn't know the comings and goings of any Fist.
Before they have a chance to ask more questions, a second page comes running breathless into the library.
“Oh, I am glad to find you here. I was told to find you very quickly, Knight Commander Palance has demanded your presence immediately in her office!”
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Thursday October 13th, 2016 6:37:22 PM
"Well looks like one of the rumors may result in a mission sooner than expected. As for the letters..."
Trayvin wonders if it is a coincidence that they spell part of Pru's name.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Thursday October 13th, 2016 9:04:51 PM
"Maybe someone was trying to send you a message in a paper golem?" Anna says to Pru, "certainly beats a bottle."
"Let's go see the commander." Anna says making a bee line for her office.
Once there the morphling snaps to attention and says, "You requested us, Ma'am?"
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday October 13th, 2016 10:22:20 PM
Tinker likes puzzles, but he doesn't like the direction of the Paper golem puzzle pointing to Priludence. The dwarf is positively happy when the summons comes. "C'mon! Can't keep the Captain waiting!" Tinker is up on his feet m,cajoling and urging people out the door to get there quicker.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Thursday October 13th, 2016 11:54:40 PM
Nikolai chalks the surviving three letters up to mere coincidence. A world of speculation would do no good to explain it any other way. Fortunately they didn't have to as the second page comes rushing in.
A new mission, he hopes. They've been on R and R long enough already. Upon entering their commander's office, he comes to attention. "Reporting as ordered, Commander."
Prudence Gundle Friday October 14th, 2016 12:03:40 AM
Pru greets the news of the letters with a heartfelt "Oh. Um. Oh." She is relieved when the messenger arrives, and follows her Fist-mates to the Knight Commander's office.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Friday October 14th, 2016 4:43:18 PM
Trayvin reports along with the Agents to Commander Palance. He waits patiently for orders and instructions.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Friday October 14th, 2016 10:10:59 PM
So much to do! So much to do! Michael lives to move and having a situation where there a plethora of tasks is almost like heaven! He reports to his Commander with a non-regulation smile on his face. Sargeant Michael Wittman reporting for duty, Ma'am! he says as he stands at attention and renders a crisp salute
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Saturday October 15th, 2016 12:32:30 AM
Nikolai hands her his written report. "For your files, Commander."
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