Pompous AC 26 CMD 24/19, HP 64/81 Friday September 1st, 2017 4:49:10 PM
Pompous pulls out a feather token from his pouch. The sign of the swan on the boat gives away it's identity.
" Rowing? We don't need to do no stinkin' rowing! My one use self propelled swan boat is at the party's disposal. It's only good for a day but at max speed (ooc> 60) we should be able to make some good time."
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 89/89 Character Sheet Friday September 1st, 2017 6:31:13 PM " I do not think we are due back at the Citadel yet. Add to that the fact that we have friends, family and a great deal of food and drink here, and we were allowed to go on a vacation. I think we should stay and spend some time enjoying ourselves before returning to the regimented ways of the Fist. Take some time to smell the roses and walk back rather than rush back in a boat. We deserve it."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Friday September 1st, 2017 7:28:11 PM "I agree. We should escort Tinker back to let his family know he is leaving us on his own an that we will sorely miss him. Besides, it's more good home cooking. And, none of us know how to manage a boat. We could get by, but I do better on land. We can keep the boat option for when there is an emergency."
He asks for a raise of hands to escort Tinker back home to insure his safe return.
OOC: I'll go over the loot we've gained since we left this weekend.
Trayvin AC 27/12 touch Hp 86/86(BrianZ) Friday September 1st, 2017 9:58:34 PM
"I agree we should escort Tinker, but I think we should spend another day here and make sure the vampires are cleared out."
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 51/67] Friday September 1st, 2017 10:16:20 PM
Pru will, of course, spend as much time with her family as time allows. "But if Tinker is in a hurry to return to his kin, we should respect that," she says.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- 24/14/21 HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Saturday September 2nd, 2017 12:43:04 AM
(OOC: Per the rules aren't survival or Profession[Sailor] checks the preferred way of handling boats?)
Anna says, "Well I was with Shark regiment back in the day, but that was because even as a druid I could take the forms of aquatic creatures and I still can do that only I become more things for a much shorter duration. Even though I'm not a sailor, I still seem to remember picking up things her or there related to survival skills that do involve watercraft. As for getting back, I'm okay with hanging around here or escorting Tinker back to his gnome family"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Saturday September 2nd, 2017 4:23:59 PM
[b]"Question is, is the wedding still or is it off? If Pru and Zoonor are still to be married, we need to stay for that. It is what we came for anyway!" Nikolai says with a laugh.
He hands 100gp to the vampire hunters and thanks them for their diligence but says nothing about their inadequacies except that they are welcome to join the Mailed Fist if they wish to be better vampire hunters.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 89/89 Character Sheet Saturday September 2nd, 2017 6:37:21 PM
Sigvar raises an eyebrow as Nikolai speaks. " Prudence and Zooner are to be wed? That's kind of sudden don't you think? II mean they only met yesterday..." Sigvar's tone is clearly playful, but this doesn't seem like a slip that he is going to let go of anytime soon.
Pompous AC 26 CMD 24/19, HP 64/81 Saturday September 2nd, 2017 8:24:41 PM
Pompous looks around the markets for a nice holy symbol. Something from the church of Domi. Maybe a smith too. Someone that could make some silver head arrows for him.
His own preference would be to go back to citadel... that said, as the junior member, he'll follow the rest of the group.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP55/70 Me+12(9)11 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Sunday September 3rd, 2017 1:38:33 AM
if they stay for a few days. Michael hangs around Tinker, gets drunk and talks about the past with him. Eventually they break into song, get a little rowdy and wind up passed out on the floor.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Sunday September 3rd, 2017 10:36:25 PM
OOC: I just noticed I typed 'PRU' instead of 'VERITY'. Sorry about that. LOL!
Trayvin AC 27/12 touch Hp 86/86(BrianZ) Monday September 4th, 2017 9:33:36 PM
It would seem there are several things vying for the Agents time. Hopefully they can finish everything they set out to do.
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 51/67] Monday September 4th, 2017 10:14:22 PM
Pru isn't sure anybody is in the right frame of mind for a wedding--even supposing Verity and Zoonor still want to go through with it. "Maybe we should postpone," she says. "And enjoy the wedding-feast and celebration in honor of the vampires' defeat."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- 24/14/21 HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Monday September 4th, 2017 11:28:33 PM
"You know I can become mist like a vampire now." Anna says, "Our most recent adventures have taught me how to do that, I can also become a chupacabra, with or without wings."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Monday September 4th, 2017 11:46:59 PM "I guess it is up to Verity. My thoughts are with yours in that they should postpone and think about it," Nikolai agrees with Pru.
Nikolai jokes with Anna, "Ok, so how about a jackalope? with sharp pointy teeth?"
Nikolai does not want to overstay their welcome but does not want to seem to want rush off. Whatever Pru's family decides to do, have the wedding or have the feast in celebration of the vanquishing of the vampire, they'll do, then head off to Tinker's home then back to the Citadel.
The Vampire's Cliffside Getaway Tuesday September 5th, 2017 5:56:46 PM
It is generally determined that walking is the way to go. Though that means they can't linger too long before heading back, since vacations don't last forever. Trayvin especially wishes to make sure no lingering vampiric activity is in the town.
This also gives them a couple extra days to say goodbye to their dwarven friend and make sure he makes it back to his family safely. Though if anyone could make it to the gnome camp unscathed, it would be Tinker.
As for now, it seems the wedding is off. Whether Zoonor and Verity wish to pursue a more traditional courtship is yet to be decided. Luckily, Pru comes up with a great idea for all the goodies that have been brought to town, and proposes a great feast to celebrate life free of outside influences.
The night falls with no end to the celebration in sight. The fancy wine is brought out as well, since there is no old man to bogart it for himself. As they look to the would be undead hunters that they've gifted with some gold to properly outfit themselves, the Agents notice them deep in conversation with someone they haven't seen around town yet, who looks like he knows more than any of them about how to hunt and dispatch the undead. He does look a bit familiar to some of them though...
Akir Al'Kaban (Ken E) Tuesday September 5th, 2017 8:12:12 PM
Heavily armored, with a wicked looked Scythe at rest in a holster behind him, the dark skinned man does indeed look familiar.
He seems certain and confident, and several fetishes crafted from the remains of undead creatures hang from his waist and neck. His clothing is road worn and dirty, consisting of his armor and the heavy cloth wraps accented in bright thread, a hallmark of the mercenaries trained in the strange Eyrie of Eagle Company. Metallic colored dressings indicated he was currently, or was once, a color sergeant of the Mailed Fist, before that rank was disbanded and new structures put in place.
He looks up at Nikolai and locks eyes, then grins with confidence.
"Greetings Nikolai! Greetings agents of Knight Captain Palance! The last time I saw you all, I was ordered by the Great Traitor to bind you as prisoners and stuff you in a tent while we sacked Alithmar. I never got the chance to thank you for the sending spell. That probably saved Torus Minek his head, and our company it's reputation."
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 89/89 Character Sheet d20+10=20 ; Tuesday September 5th, 2017 8:19:46 PM
Sigvar does not know this man, but looks him over with a cautious eye. Since he seems to know his way around dispatching undead, the Minotaur looks closely for signs that he is indeed a trained undead Hunter in Lord Gargul's service. Perception 20
Trayvin AC 27/12 touch Hp 86/86(BrianZ) Tuesday September 5th, 2017 8:23:43 PM
During the celebration, Trayvin tries some of the 'fancy' wine that wasn't available earlier. With an eyebrow raised he sips at it cautiously, hoping there is nothing 'wrong' with it since it was the preferred drink of their now former antagonist.
Trayvin notices the newcomer and nudges a few of the more stealthy Agents in the hope that they will go and take a closer look at this person talking to the rookie undead hunters.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP55/70 Me+12(9)11 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Tuesday September 5th, 2017 9:05:13 PM
A bit in his cups, Michael goes up to the newcomer. Heeey, (hic) I remember you, from Althi,atla...parmar...you know that town that Nut boy tried to sack. I"m glad you made it! Pavlov, may the gods blow their noses with his soul, sure did a lot of damage to the Fist with his shenanigans. Hows the Eyrie dealing with the cutbacks?..m' sorry...I'm Staff Sargent Wittman, Michael Wittman. What brings you out...all the way out here?
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday September 5th, 2017 10:09:35 PM
It takes a moment to recognize Akir with all his new trappings. "I like the conditions of this meeting better than the last. Well met Akir. Glad to see you still alive. You know, it took a lot of effort on our part to not dispatch your Fist like we did the one at the pier before our boat ride over to your territory. Boy, you've changed. Having fun with... what's this? ghoul claw? Alas, vampires leave no trophy body parts to wear when we are done with them," Nikolai laughs and welcomes Akir to the would-be wedding party turn victory celebration.
"So, what have you been up to?"
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 51/67] Tuesday September 5th, 2017 10:18:58 PM
Pru spends much of the celebration with her family, but she does take some time to greet the newcomer. "Hello," she says. "I'm Prudence Gundle, though if you were one of the ones who captured us, I guess you already know that. And I'm sorry--I didn't catch your name?"
[OOC: Pru can't see your header! :D]
Akir Al'Kaban - AC 19 - Hp 90/90 (Ken E) Tuesday September 5th, 2017 10:40:24 PM
Akir grins and dismisses the vampire hunters.
"I was supposed to be coming here as a hired hand to assert my dominion over some mewling vampires, but it seems I came to late. I'm on leave, officially, and working freelance for awhile."
He smiles at Prudence.
"I suppose I should reintroduce myself, now that we are all on the same side again! Forgive my rudeness!"
Akir bows, as deeply as possible in his chainmail armor, then continues.
"I am Akir Al'Kaban, Instructor Sergeant with the Eyrie and Eagle Company. Last we met, your Fist had surrendered to mine on the shores of Alithmar. When the Great Traitor was exposed by your work, you arranged to have one of F'floys clerics send a message to me, which I passed to Knight Captain Minek."
He smile fades, a little.
"Bloody affair, that business. Afterwards, when the companies were diminished, I stopped leading Fists and was transferred to an Instructors role. I teach the blending of martial magic to our newer recruits, a process which now takes much longer than it did, after it was reviewed when your report called out companies that were spending less time in training."
He becomes aware of Trayvin, whom he recognizes, and Sigvar, who is completely new to him.
"I had to take on some more specialized roles with our reduced ranks. I already had a knack for Necromancy, and it was my studied school in the colleges at the Eyrie. I trained some as an Undead Hunter, in service to the Eyes of Gargul, then returned to service as one of the Eyrie's Weapon Mages."
Akir crosses and secures a drink, then tips his cup to Nikolai and the others.
"You were right about one of two things, Nikolai. Pavonis was a rat not worth our loyalty."
He spits.
"Enough about that, what has Nikolai's Fist... or is it Grundle's now? What have you all been up to since the way?"
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- 24/14/21 HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Tuesday September 5th, 2017 11:47:12 PM
Anna makes sure to get more of the good wine, yes she had some when the old man was around as she wanted to make sure he wasn't drinking blood at the time. She revels in the exquisite flavours of cocoa and rich earth, with a mineral finish once again. She asks whoever is acting as Sommelier if she can get a bottle for set aside for herself to take with her when the Fist eventually leaves.
She goes over to Nikolai, wine goblet in hand and says to her Thumb, "You know the first time I had this it was because I was trying to call the vampire lord's bluff as I had assumed he was drinking blood. I meant to ask you at some point how is it possible that he was actually drinking wine? I was under the impression that vampire's could no longer eat or drink human fare."
She goes over to the newcomer when he makes himself known. Anna Morphling has red hair, pale skin and green eyes. Her 5’ 9” frame is fairly compact and she has decent muscle tone. She wears a polished suit of mithril full plate armor under an explorer’s outfit in earthy tones a magical messenger bag. She says, "Well met again Al'Kaban...Since you are some kind of expert in undead mayhap you can weigh in on a question that has vexed me since we ran into the vampire lord. The last time we had festivities here the creature was drinking this very wine. I was under the impression that the only thing a vampire could drink was blood...unless is there such a thing as blood wine?" She looks askance at her glass as she says this.
She says to Akir, "I don't suppose I could get a dance?" and flashes him a smile.
If Akir assents she dances with him and tries to gauge his measure from the dance. She says to him while they dance, "A pity you just missed the tussle with the Vampire Lord. We don't fight undead all that often honestly at least we haven't since I joined this Fist. Judging by all your trophies, you seem to though. How do you do against non-undead though? You must be fairly specialized."
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 89/89 Character Sheet Wednesday September 6th, 2017 4:51:48 AM " Sigvar offers his hand to the weapons mag. Sigvar Ironhorn, formerly of Bear company, now an Agent under Nikolai's Fist. And it's Gundle, no R. This is her family's celebration, so that is important to get right. After today's fighting I may take you up on learning some techniques of undead hunting." Sigvar is what you would expect to see in a Fist raised Minotaur fighter. He is large, muscled and has a dark hide. His hair is worn in a warbraid that comes from the back of his head. Other than that he wears no hair, it is shaved so that if he chose, a helmet would fit properly. He has a few silver tattoos on his body, gifts from his mother. He has scars on his hide, lighter colored stripes mostly on hs forearms and torso. All of them appear to be battle wounds.
Akir Al'Kaban - AC 19 - Hp 90/90 (Ken E) Wednesday September 6th, 2017 10:57:55 AM
Akir grins at Sigvar before strongly shaking the Minotaurs hand.
"Gladly! I already have half a mind to spar with good Nikolai on principle. We each hold the stance the other is lucky that he came to me under a flag of truce! And I had no idea this celebration was in Staff Sergeant Gundle's family home!"
His smile is genuine, with a hint of amusement.
"I meant no offense. Now if you'll excuse me, I was offered a dance. I've learned that when you live the life of a warrior, dances and food should never be turned down!"
Akir happily joins Anna for a dance. His hands might be placed a tiny smidgen too low, and his body pressed perhaps a smidgen too tight. If he is aware, he isn't showing it.
"Vampire's don't need water or food for sustenance, but perhaps some former tendencies are hard to abandon? Perhaps he likes the taste? We don't need cake or wine, water and bread will sustain us, but life is much better with them!"
His steps and frame are both strong, and conversation reveals his mind is trained as well. His muscle tone suggests that he is probably every bit a match for Sigvar, or more, in strength alone. While his steps are intentional and precise, he does not seem exceptionally nimble. His moves are straightforward, without finesse.
"While I was trained to combat undead, it did not come at the detriment of other general training. Magic is magic, and while my time was spent between the colleges and the training fields, magic suffers when it isn't the only focus in your life. I drifted towards Necromancy, because I was already well attuned to the mortal body."
He grins.
"Mine, and those of my companions."
Chuckling at his own joke, he continues, after stiffly twirling Anna.
"So while I am a competent Mage, my Weapon is used to deliver my magic, and it's arrangement that suits myself quite well. I hope to teach this style to others in time, and improve upon it, to be honest."
The Vampire's Cliffside Getaway Wednesday September 6th, 2017 4:06:19 PM
The celebration continues long into the night, but eventually, everyone is exhausted and goes to bed. Michael sleeps especially well, being out of the influence of the vampire. No more darkness is haunting his dreams.
In the morning, Akir informs the Agents that he has been sent to report to Knight Commander Palance, but he stopped by Twin Lakes when he heard the undead rumors. He is glad indeed that it has been rooted out, with very few casualties. He asks if he can accompany them back to the Citadel when they leave.
Pompous AC 26 CMD 24/19, HP 64/81 Wednesday September 6th, 2017 4:29:18 PM
After a good long rest, Pompous completes his toilet. A little touch up on the flat top hair cut. A little hemming of the uniform. Pompous can't wait to get back and upgrade his gear. He's not happy that he was left unprepared against a hoard of undead. What would his hero Monthor have thought?
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 89/89 Character Sheet Wednesday September 6th, 2017 7:48:43 PM
Sigvar wakes, trains, and then bathes and grooms himself, most of these things are a luxury he can not avail himself of on the road, and so he relishes them. When all this is done he eats some breakfast and is ready for whatever the day will bring.
Trayvin AC 27/12 touch Hp 86/86(BrianZ) Wednesday September 6th, 2017 8:58:14 PM
It seems as though the Agents have someone new to travel with back to the Citadel, and the party here is over. Celebration is done, and wedding on hold maybe for awhile.
"Well that was certainly an interesting vacation. Might I suggest we now do something more relaxing like get back to work?" Trayvin says this with a smile. Even though the Agents were on leave, they were never really taking a break from making sure the Fist earns back the good name it once had.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP55/70 Me+12(9)11 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Wednesday September 6th, 2017 9:55:10 PM
Michael snorts at Trayvins comment. Boy that's the truth. we ought to call this outfit the "bad copper" unit.
Michael is a bit short, even for a halfling, and far from being rotund, he is actually quite lean. he is decent looking but has no truly distinguishing facial features. He wears pants with many pockets on them and a mithril chain shirt. a rapier and a wicked looking short sword hang off each hip. there is a haversack on his back. Although he's being outgoing at the moment, one can see how he could easily blend into the background.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday September 6th, 2017 10:36:50 PM
Nikolai listens to Akir's story and nods. "Glad F'floy preserved you. He must have seen our words take root in your heart. As you may have heard, the god took great vengeance upon those who held true to the Great Traitor."
Anna approaches and asks a question. "It is my understanding that vampires can eat and drink any human food, but gain no sustenance from them, only from blood can they keep their life essence strong. We can look that up again in the Citadel library."
Nikolai tells Akir their encounter with the ghostly witch and he underwater enclave. Then about their encounter with the undead sorcerer and her peeve against Nikolai's Fist and her ambush on the road and then her brazen attack right outside the gates of the Citadel. "Oh, and a dragon that bit off a bit more than he could chew. We just might meet him again."
If Pru consents, he has as many dances with her as she allows. Otherwise, he has at least one dance with Verity if she is up to is. He tries to lift her spirits with positive things about her family and Pru.
When Akir reveals his desire to join them in their return to the Citadel, Nikola welcomes him wholeheartedly. "Anna sais that we seldom encounter undead, but Nikolai's Fist has a certain reputation of finding undead. Our first mission took us to a village being assaulted by zombies. Since then I've taken up studying undead when I get the chance. There's so much to learn though. I think vampires enjoy good food and wine but primarily as a deception to his guests. Only blood sustains them though."
He consults his map to find the best rout home afoot and is ready to lead the way whenever Pru gives the word.
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 51/67] Wednesday September 6th, 2017 11:10:19 PM
Pru gladly dances with Nikolai, and then sits down to talk with him for a bit, and then dances some more. Are there other people at this party? Oh, right, Verity. Pru waves at her, then goes back to Nikolai.
The next day, she departs with her companions to return to the Citadel. "I suppose this was sort of a busman's holiday," she says with a little laugh.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- 24/14/21 HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Wednesday September 6th, 2017 11:59:38 PM
That night Anna thanks Akir for the dance and says, "In my experience it never hurts to be flexible. As a Morphling I can really be anyone or anything with in certain parameters as the situation dictates."
Anna gets ready to move on the next day with her friends and returns to the wine cellar to find out if there is indeed any bottles of the Vampire's reserve she could take with her to commemorate their adventure and save for a future special occasion.
The Vampire's Cliffside Getaway d20=16 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+10=20 ; d20+10=19 ; d20+10=29 ; d20+15=24 ; d20+17=22 ; d20+18=29 ; Thursday September 7th, 2017 4:46:37 PM
The Agents (and Akir) relish the chance to complete their morning ablutions, getting themselves nice and clean before a long dusty ride back home. Farewell's are made and Pru hugs her family all around, promising to write them soon. If there is more wine to be found, Anna doesn't see it. However, Zoonor approaches them as they leave. He seems a bit in a haze, as if coming out from a long time compulsion. Still, he sees fit to gift them with quite a nice vintage of whiskey that managed to avoid the feasting tables.
They do their due diligence, setting watches when they stop to camp and being generally observant throughout the day. Where they noticed a lack of wildlife in the area before, the forest seems to be coming back to itself. The animals can certainly sense the lack of undead in their home and are coming back to a more normal way of life.
During their second day of travel, near midday, Akir and Pompous see a shape flying off in the distance. It could be a bird, or it could be a dragon. Maybe Nikolai's recounting of their recent adventures just have dragons on their minds. Either way, it is gone nearly as quickly as it is noticed.
As night is falling, the group makes their intentionally noisy way into Tinker's family's camp to loud cries of welcome and steaming bowls of hearty stew. If you stay here too long, Michael is sure to lose that trim physique that he's so proud of.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 89/89 Character Sheet Thursday September 7th, 2017 8:23:27 PM
Sigvar is happy to see the gnomes again. Their food and their company was most welcome last time, and it looks like he will end up stuffed again. He will be sad to see his friend go and tries to understand the pull of family and kin. He knows he still has kin, his clan fights an unending battle against the undead at home. But he has never met them and it is hard to feel close to those he has never known.
Akir Al'Kaban - AC 19 - Hp 90/90 (Ken E) Thursday September 7th, 2017 8:31:09 PM
Akir points out the flying shape in the distance, motioning towards it with his armored gauntlet.
"Are there many large flying beasts in this area?"
The question is directed towards Anna, whose intelligence and knowledge in a wide variety of affairs, as well as her similar belief that flexibility trumps specialization, has earned a bit of his admiration.
Over the next couple of days, he shares his spellbook with the others, letting them know what kind of spells are available to him should they need something in particular prepared. He tries to strike up conversation with Pompous in particular, whom he has not yet spent much time with. He points to the mans quiver.
"Are you a trained archer? Or do you just carry the bow to have options? I had a man in my fist once who shot an arrow straight as any. I learned a spell just for him, that could make up to fifty of his arrows at a time burst into flames when hitting the foe. It lasts for a whole hour, as well! If you would like, I could keep a scroll or two of this spell on hand, to help you pin down our enemies?"
Akir tries to make himself scarce when Tinker takes his leave, other than a brief word of support to the dwarf.
"Congratulations, brave dwarf! You have survived your tenure of service! Many others are not so fortunate. I remember when your wisdom and calm prevailed in a tense conflict, and saved your comrades from the heated words of your thumb."
He bows to the gnomes.
"Good hands watch you all!"
With no more to say, he lets Tinkers friends and longtime allies have their moments of farewell, unhindered by a strangers gaze. He takes some time to himself apart from the others, performing some maintenance on his spellbook and weapons.
Trayvin AC 27/12 touch Hp 86/86(BrianZ) Thursday September 7th, 2017 9:14:14 PM
Trayvin heartily enjoys the gnomes food once again. He may have been hoping to see Tinker home just for the food...
He says a fond farewell to Tinker. He is less sorrowful of the parting, now that it has had a bit of time to sink in. "You will be missed."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP55/70 Me+12(9)11 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Thursday September 7th, 2017 10:28:23 PM
while travelling and talking about undead vampires Michael has a question. What gets me is this. How in the heck did the master vamp stay active during the day? We was there for three days and he was out and about for all three of them.
Michael eats heartily of Tinkers Moms cooking. He's got a fast metabolism so he's not worried about a belly. He gets a bit maudlin with Tinker leaving.
when they say their final goodbyes he is not as talkative as he was earlier. I'm going to miss you brother he chokes out. He quickly mounts up and rides away. He keeps his cloak hood pulled up so he can deal with the loss of his friend without the shame of anyone seeing his tears.
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 51/67] Thursday September 7th, 2017 11:11:29 PM
Pru is impressed that Akir has a spellbook. "You're a wizard, then?' she says, peeking at the arcane writings on the pages. Her own magic always seemed so haphazard in comparison with the tidy world of wizardry. "You must be really smart."
She tries not to cry as she bids farewell to Tinker, but it's hard. Pru and Nikolai are now the only ones left from the original Honor Fist that graduated together.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- 24/14/21 HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 d20+15=24 ; d20+15=31 ; Friday September 8th, 2017 12:06:12 AM
Anna searches her memory regarding flying creatures that may reside in the type of biome they find themselves in. (Knowledge[Arcana]: 24, Knowledge[Nature]: 31)
Anna shows Akir her bag of tricks and informs him she can pull up to second level scrolls or up to first level potions from it. "I could probably fool your scrolls into working for me." Anna says to the newcomer, "I'm very skilled in the usage of magical devices."
Anna shakes Tinker's hand and says, "May Ma'ab and her cohort Lord Eberyon smile on your future endevors."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Friday September 8th, 2017 12:10:11 AM "Remember, he stayed in the very dark carriage and managed to avoid the sunlight every which way. A difficult task, but he managed," Nikolai shrugs.
Returning to Tinker's home means more to Nikolai now than before, as he knows them and is comfortable with them, but knows they must only stay a day or two at most, for Tinker's sake.
He says his goodby's to Tinker and wishes him well in getting his family's business back on track. "You will always be welcome back into the Fist. Don't even need to call ahead," he laughs as he hugs Tinker.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 89/89 Character Sheet Friday September 8th, 2017 4:33:50 AM " It wasn't difficult for him. He had the orb to make sure that whenever he was going to be out during the day it would be overcast. No sunlight, no dead vampire. An ingenious way for him to act like he was alive."
Pompous AC 26 CMD 24/19, HP 64/81 Friday September 8th, 2017 6:34:30 AM
Pompous thinks back to their initial contact with the old gentlemen... He thinks... { I should have put a shaft in his keister when I wanted to in the first place! }
The ranger then says his goodbye again to Tinker. " Laters Tinky. Your time with the Fist will always be remembered. Trust me.... "
The Vampire's Cliffside Getaway Friday September 8th, 2017 9:02:27 PM
Michael is a bit stumped about how the Vampire survived in the daytime, but among them, they figure out how he managed. It took a lot of planning, but he somehow managed it.
The gnomes toast the group for bringing their boy back, and many of them find themselves holding back tears as they bid their friend one last goodbye.
In the morning, Mama Posie packs the group off with several packed meals and her arm around her adopted son. They wave as the Agents make their way back home. After a few days of travel, the towers of the Citadel come into view and they can see their home.
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 51/67] Friday September 8th, 2017 10:13:43 PM
Pru is glad to be back, and gladder still to have reconciled with her family. Practically the first thing she does is sit down and write a long letter, detailing her journey back to the Citadel and expressing again how very happy she was to see everybody.
To her Fist-mates, she says, "we should probably send somebody to the Catacombs--I don't think we plan on keeping that gear, do we?"
Akir Al'Kaban - AC 19 - Hp 90/90 (Ken E) Saturday September 9th, 2017 3:07:56 AM
Akir enters the Citadel and gives it a slow, appraising look. He notes the defenses, the watches, the guard placements, the wall supports, and as much as he can take in with a ride to both stable a horse and find berthing.
He nudges Nikolai.
"Where do we put our possessions? Are we in separate quarters? After the reduction in force, there was enough room left in the Eyrie that typically us veterans got out own quarters. How does the Knight Captain Palance handle things here?"
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP55/70 Me+12(9)11 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Saturday September 9th, 2017 10:59:45 PM I'll get him settled in Sir, Michael says, to Nikolai and Akir, Follow me, if you would. as they walk Michael talks.
We. as Agents, get our own rooms. I kind of miss the camaraderie of when we had our own barracks, but getting a wing in the keep is nice, and like I said, we get our own rooms. Since Tinker has gone back home, I guess you should probably get his room. I'll take you to it so you can drop off your stuff, then I'll arrange for the Stewards to come pack all of Tinkers stuff up and send it to him.
They walk into the room and it's classic "Tinker" gears, locks, tools and other knickknacks are setting all over the place. Proof of his obsession with locks as well as a life lived fully with adventure. Michael picks up a polished stick of blood red wood from Tinkers work bench and stares at it lost in thought. partially to himself but also to Akir, he speaks.
This is a stick of Blood Cypress wood that Tinker brought back from the swamp south of Hornfowl. That was around the first time I met him. I was with Sgt Carrens scout platoon when we got word that the Agents were being pressed hard by Gnoll troops. There was a Eyre Wizard at the Citadel who was enlisted to teleport us out to them. Sgt Carren was ordered by the Knight Commander to provide Cadre to the agents after they were reinforced. I was the new guy, so I got voluntold to transfer. wasn't too long after that the Will-O-Wisps attacked, Tinker was killed. He was holding the line against the Gnolls as we tried to deal with the Wisps, and got cut down. He was always like that, He always put himself in the most dangerous postions to keep the rest of us safe....Anyway I guess even the Gods knew how good hie was, Gargul showed up to bring him back. You ever met a god Akir? I did and it was all because of Tinker...
with a start he comes back from the trip down memory lane, he puts the stick back on the desk and looks around.
Anyway...This will be your room, drop your stuff and lets go to the PX and get something to eat, we will probably need to go see Commander Palance, tell he we are back and that Tinker has resigned, I guess we also need to see about getting you officially with us as well. He smiles and pats Akir on the Thigh.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- 24/14/21 HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Sunday September 10th, 2017 8:06:33 AM
Anna says to Pru, "I need to go to the catacombs anyway to get the wild enchantment put on my armor so I can utilize its protection while I take other forms. However, I am a little short of gold needed for the enchantment from all the scroll pulling I have done so I'll need to make one transaction to sell all our stuff and another to get my armor magicked. I know I can do it in one go, but I'd feel more comfortable keeping the 2 transactions separate so I can make sure everyone gets a fair share from the transaction."
(OOC: Is there a list somewhere of all the loot we accumulated from this trip and what we are keeping and selling?)
Pompous AC 26 CMD 24/19, HP 64/81 Sunday September 10th, 2017 5:23:41 PM
Pompous retires to his quarters and neatly puts his gear away. A quick hot bath helps the ranger to refresh himself from his most recent adventure. A clean shave and a manicure completes the process.
He then sits himself at his small writing desk and adds a few paragraphs in his memoirs...
{ With friend Tinky leaving the group, we have now been joined by a new member. A gentleman by the name of Aquire El' Kaboum.. or some such... A tall, muscular gent, this new addition seems to be very knowledgeable of the dark arts and it's minions. Which doesn't inspire me to have a whole lot of confidence in him.. yet...Now that we are back at the Citadel, it would be wise to upgrade our equipment. What was very apparent during this adventure was that we were not ready to face the undead and it's legions of evil. It was only by our hero's skill in battle and exceptional leadership... and the help of the other party members.. that they were victorious. While equipment does not MAKE the man, it doesn't hurt to be prepared for anything! }
And with that, Pompous puts his book away and lays down for a well deserved nap.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Sunday September 10th, 2017 8:42:22 PM
Nikolai lets his friends take care of their new member, Akir, and the loot they gathered while on vacation. Once he puts his gear away and cleans up a bit, he seeks out Commander Palance to report their return, promising a full report the next day.
The Vampire's Cliffside Getaway Monday September 11th, 2017 4:48:28 PM
The Agents assess the recent additions to their treasure horde, deciding how best to allocate it all. Michael shows Akir around the Citadel, offering to set him up in Tinker's old room after helping mark everything for storage or to send on to Tinker at his new home.
Many of the Agents seek their beds or a bath after a long journey. Others stop off at the Last Assignment for a drink and a chat with their favourite barkeep.
Nikolai, ever the example of responsibility, clean up his uniform and reports to Palance. While not an official assignment, they did discover several things of note that she may be interested in.
After settling his things, Akir joins Nikolai in reporting to Palance. It seems she was expecting him. "Sad as I am to lose such a soldier as Daemarr, I understand his wishes to take care of his family. In recognition of his service, rather than accept his resignation, I'll list him as on an extended leave. That way, he can return to the ranks should he wish it with no marks on his career.
I've spoken with your former commander, Akir, and I've agreed to let you join with the Agents so you can field test your new techniques in a variety of environments and assignments. I was going to assign you a room based on your rank, but since Tinker's room is open, you are welcome to use it. In fact, I think it may be the best way to begin integrating with your new fist mates. Welcome to the team."
The Agents have a few days at the Citadel to do as they like. Palance says that she will have an assignment for them soon.
Pompous AC 26 CMD 24/19, HP 64/81 Monday September 11th, 2017 8:07:44 PM
Pompous hangs around the Citadel, exercises a bit, and gets to know the surroundings a bit better.
Akir Al'Kaban - AC 19 - Hp 90/90 (Ken E) Monday September 11th, 2017 8:43:48 PM
Akir takes a moment to settle in, then strips off his armor and makes his way around the Citadel. He still wore his sashes and insignia that marked him a soldier of the Eyrie, but that was fine with him. He was an Agent, and an Eagle warrior, not a Wolf.
He tries to get his bearings, then remembers he is supposed to meet Michael for a trip to the PX. He sifts through the food and taps Michael on the shoulder.
"Do they ever serve spicy dishes? It has been forever since I had a proper curry. The Eyrie forbade most powerful spices, once recruits made a game of replacing each others spell components with scorpion pepper seeds and powdered hellspice."
When they sit, he gives a small prayer before eating, then eats his food, mostly without pause. He finishes, and points his fork at Michael.
"So what is your role with the Agents, Michael? Many halflings serve as scouts and ranged support, but you don't seem to carry a bow."
He tries to explain his own style a little more to the halfling.
"The Weapon Mage is supposed to blend armor, weaponcraft, and sorcery all into one versatile warrior. We train our minds, and our bodies. Our magic augments our fighting, it does not replace it. If I knew what your strengths were, maybe I could find some spells that benefit us mutually? I should also spend time with Staff Sergeant Gundle. Since she is a sorcerer, there is little need for my spells to overlap with hers. Variety is one of life's most prized spices, I am told."
Trayvin AC 27/12 touch Hp 86/86(BrianZ) Monday September 11th, 2017 9:13:52 PM
"Well Akir, you will certainly find some variety with this group. Our skills seem to cover the basics of what is needed for most situations."
Trayvin listens to the man explain his fighting style. "It sounds kinda complicated, but then clerics usually are able to weave a mix of magic and mayhem as well. Have you trained in the Mailed Fist teamwork skills? We may be able to complement each other well in a combat situation."
Over the few days available to them, Trayvin will spend the time making sure his gear is cleaned, repaired, and ready for the next assignment. He spends the rest of his time at the Citadel forge, getting a good workout and helping the Citadel armorers with any ongoing projects they might have.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 89/89 Character Sheet Monday September 11th, 2017 9:45:47 PM
Sigvar was conflicted. The vacation had highlighted a few things he had been trying not to think about. He knew things about his family, his clan. All of it told to him by his mother so that he would know who he was, his place in it all.But what was he doing here if not training to return to a home he had never seen to help save his clan from the undead hordes that assail them. The Vampire had shown him he was not ready, made him question the training he had taken up until this point. He needed to get his head right. He heads to the Citadel chapel and secludes himself in prayer and fasting until the Agents need him.
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 51/67] Monday September 11th, 2017 10:22:20 PM
Pru wastes no time getting cleaned up and putting on a dress. She even takes the time to wash her hair--an involved process, even with Prestidigitation to help with getting it dry again.
She visits the Last Assignment, and catches up with friends.
When Akir talks to her, she says, "Well, um, I mostly have fire stuff. Fire spells. I'm an elemental sorcerer, you see. Uh, I can cast Dispel Magic, but honestly, disrupting another caster is kind of hit-and-miss. Oh! My new spell! I should tell everybody about this, but I can cast Telepathic Bond now. I can't get everybody in one casting yet, but I can cast it more than once. And then we can just think to each other. It might be good for tactics and stuff. At least, I hope it is."
[OOC: Feel free to look at Pru's list of known spells; we can assume she eventually told you all of them.]
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Monday September 11th, 2017 10:59:05 PM
After Nikolai leave's Palance's office, he feels like a hot meal and heads to the Last Assignment. The tavern inside the Citadel is busy and he finds most of his friends already there. He informs them they have a few days rest before their next assignment.
"I've been thinking of that Vest of Escape. It goes well with my ability to get into trouble and has certain usefulness when dealing with locks and traps. I'd like to claim it and those potions of Shield of Faith we found. Just a few extra protections can make a big difference."
He sits at Akir's table with a plate of food, steaming hot, and a mug of beer."I hope the Citadel becomes a comfortable home for you. There are Fist members from all around. Although they stick to their old regimental insignias, no one really takes offence. If you decide later on to switch to Wolf Regiment, that's fine, but if not, that's no big deal. Anna and Sigvar are from different Regiments also.
As an Agent, having Fist members from different Regiments is actually the best way to go," he grins then digs into his meal.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP55/70 Me+12(9)11 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Monday September 11th, 2017 11:05:31 PM Wow Akir, that sounds like a really Awesome fighting system! I mean i use magic weapons but you incorporating magic in your being and in the middle of combat...that's powerful.
Michael takes a pull from his beer, pauses in thought, then answers Akir's question.
I guess I'm the kill shot of the group. I'm a good scout, Jack of all trades, and handsome as can be, but my main skill is that I've studied anatomy quite extensively and I can bring the hammer down on single opponents pretty quickly, more quickly now, that i've learned how to use blades Akimbo. Pru's the real Hammer though if we can keep out of her way she can deal some major hurt to everyone. and she can quicken us make us faster. Sigvar proved in this last engagement that he can go through massed attackers like poop through a sick cat. Trayvin keeps us all in the fight, Anna...heh..man Anna..she can turn into a lot of things, she's kind of a jack of all trades person as well. Pompous looks to be our long range guy and Nikolai leads, tanks and everything else.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- 24/14/21 HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Monday September 11th, 2017 11:56:03 PM
Anna escorts their mounts to the stables, stows her gear in her room and the joins the others at the last assignment.
She gets a chalice of mead and sits with her friends.
To Akir she says "First off, I'm originally from Shark regiment but I have taken the mantle of wolf, though with my new abilities maybe I'd make a better snake...long story but to sum it up I used to be a druid from an esoteric sect involving a focus on wild shaping but Ma'ab came to me in a dream and offered me a metamorphosis. I am now a fighter, cradled morphling and my Lady has blessed me with the ability to turn into a lot of things. I can turn into animals from size tiny to huge, plants from size small to large, trees, mist, small or medium magical beasts and a variety of humanoids. My talent with my transmutation abilities allow me to craft specific disguises even mimicking someone's voice. I can also take 6 seconds and change what form I'm in once I've activated an ability. My newest ability is the ability to benefit from wearing wild armor but I need to get my armor upgraded. I also have the ability to pull low level scrolls, potions and mundane items from my bag of tricks and I can use a variety of magical devices through convincing them to work for me with force of personality."
The Vampire's Cliffside Getaway Tuesday September 12th, 2017 7:52:27 PM
There is discussion of tactics and getting to know eacg other all around. The Agents enjoy their free time and go to bed with new things to consider all around.
In the morning, the pages come by with an invitation to see Palance after breakfast.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 89/89 Character Sheet Tuesday September 12th, 2017 8:45:14 PM
When the page finds Sigvar, it is clear he has not done much more than pray the entire time he has been back at the Citadel. He leaves the chapel and gets some grub and a bath before reporting for the meeting at the appointed time. He arrives in full kit, since these things sometimes lead directly to action.
Trayvin AC 27/12 touch Hp 86/86(BrianZ) Tuesday September 12th, 2017 8:57:09 PM
Trayvin meets the rest of the Agents on the way to see the Commander.
"Sigvar, how are things at the Chapel? I only stopped in there once or twice since we got back."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP55/70 Me+12(9)11 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Tuesday September 12th, 2017 10:28:43 PM
Michael arises early in the morning. he performs his morning absolutions and then goes out for a quick run. He drops back by the library for a few minutes and then heads off for breakfast. when he gets the summons he finishes his meal and follows the rest of the crew to go see the Commander.
Akir Al'Kaban - AC 19 - Hp 90/90 (Ken E) Tuesday September 12th, 2017 10:30:14 PM
Akir takes a deep breath, and wistfully heads off with the others.
He had learned little, not nearly as much as he wanted. It seemed that a mission would be the place to bond with the other Agents after all. That reminded him.. someone had asked him about his own training.
"Whoever asked, I've trained up to Specialist II. I'm trained in allying other spellcasters (Teamwork Feat: Allied spellcaster), since it was exceedingly common to pair with magically skilled partners in the Eyrie."
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 51/67] Tuesday September 12th, 2017 10:31:13 PM
"Back in uniform," Pru says. At least it's clean. She tidies her quarters, has a quick breakfast, then joins her companions in Commander Palance's office.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday September 12th, 2017 10:49:14 PM
Nikolai is up early with his meditations and when he receives the invitation, he puts on his normal gear, which means pretty much everything. He meets the others and heads to the commander's office together.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- 24/14/21 HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Tuesday September 12th, 2017 11:42:10 PM
Anna grabs a big bowl of porridge, takes her time eating it and then heads to the Commanders office to rendezvous with her friends.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 27 (T 12, FF 25) CMD 29 HP 114/114 Character Sheet 4d6=16 ; Wednesday September 13th, 2017 12:48:14 PM
OOC Sigvar's header is updated Please ignore the last post Sigvar posted and use this one instead. Old post can be deleted as can this OOC part. IC Sigvar awoke on the floor of the chapel to the page shaking him to deliver the message that Commander Palance required the Agents to attend to her this morning. His head hurt like he had been drinking for days and his right eye felt like someone had shoved a spoon in it. He was also completely naked lying in front of Gargul's altar. He acknowledged the page and dismissed him, wondering what the soldier might be thinking. At least the lighting is dim in this section of the Chapel he thought. As he placed his hands on the floor to rise, he almost slipped in the half dried blood on the floor. Groggy from fatigue and feeling a shooting pain go through his head as he rose he put his hands to his eye and wondered why it hurt so much. Instantly his eye felt better and his fatigue was lifted. Strange, it was as if I had been healed by a cleric just now he thought Looking around himself he found that the lighting was murkier than he remembered, but on the altar to Gargul was a pile of gear. Large Full plate armor, his sword, and much of his normal gear, but a few things were different. The armor was no longer made from adamantite, but the sword remained the same. The tattoos on his body had faded, but now there was a circlet and a sash in the pile of gear. Donning the gear he also found a letter, written in what looked like his own hand, in what looked like his own blood. In the flickering light on the chapel he tried to read it, finally holding it up to one of the candles to make it out. " Child, you prayed to me for days until your body could no longer bear the burden of lost rest. You beseeched me to make you into the warrior that your clan required to cleanse it's home. I asked you what you would give to make this transformation. In answer you plucked out your own eye, knowing that my followers gain the powers of sight through me and not their own bodies. I have accepted your sacrifice and have transformed you into what you think you need to become, a holy warrior in my name and a hunter of the undead. Nurture these gifts. Feel them grow inside you. Learn to use them with the wisdom your mother showed in raising you and the dedication she showed by sacrificing herself for her Fist. You have all the tools you will need, you only need believe you can use them." Now he understood the healing touch he had delivered to his own face. He understood why the room looked so dim. Gargul had heard him. His prayer and sacrifice had been enough. Now he only needed to prove himself worthy. He carefully stowed the note in his backpack, where the cat rested, waiting to greet him. Following the page's invitation he bathed and stopped by the leather worker's to acquire an eye-patch. He ate a hearty breakfast and joined his friends at the commander's tower. To Trayvin's question he answers, " Things are blessed in the chapel. Gargul has heard me pray to him and I am transformed into a new Minotaur. It may take some time to get used to, but I don't think you will need to worry much about keeping me alive in combat anymore. And undead should now fear us even more."
Pompous AC 26 CMD 24/19, HP 64/81 Wednesday September 13th, 2017 7:56:19 PM
Pompous wakes from his nap and notices that he had been summoned with the other to see Palance. Quickly, he gears up and races to join the others.
Trayvin AC 27/12 touch Hp 86/86(BrianZ) Wednesday September 13th, 2017 8:55:56 PM
"That is well. Any weapon against the undead is a good thing to keep around." Trayvin notices the eyepatch but he says nothing. Sigvar would share that story when he was ready.
"As for combat, I always worry about the Agents. But it is good to hear that you feel ready for new challenges."
New Faces, New Challenges Wednesday September 13th, 2017 9:21:33 PM
Michael doesn't know why he had the urge to read, but there it was. When he got there, the librarian handed him a package tied up with twine. "I don't know where it came from, but it feels like a book in there. It just has your name on it. If you want to share, I'd be more than willing to discuss with you."
As the Agents gather outside, everyone looks a bit different, new trimmings, clean gear. But Sigvar's change is more than just internal. Something has changed inside him, and he just seems more right with the Wold.
Palance calls them in after a few minutes.
"I hope you are well-rested because you need to deal with a dragon.
Let me back up. A man calling himself Lord Klirt has requested to hire the Fist to take care of some business for him. He is apparently expanding his holdings, completely legally before anyone asks. He has purchased an old keep far to the south and started to repair it, but he claims it was taken over by a dragon.
According to Klirt, the dragon appeared, ate his workers, and then a wizard showed up and moved into the keep. He says the two are working together and he wants the Fist to get them out of his keep.
Now, between you and me, no one has verified a dragon sighting in the area, but his gold is good. I trust you can suss out what's going on. Lord Klirt is staying in the inn right outside the Citadel, so he should be quite easy to find for more details."
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 27 (T 12, FF 25) CMD 29 HP 114/114 Character Sheet d20+6=7 ; Wednesday September 13th, 2017 9:30:47 PM
Strangely, Sigvar feels he should know something about this Lord Klirt, yet he can find no memory of him in his mind. Knowledge Nobility 7 " How would you like us to proceed? A dragon is no trifling matter. They are generally old and quite the handful in a fight. Yet they are not known for stupidity, so it might be reasoned with. Does the Fist wish to have a dragon for an ally, if that can be arranged?"
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP55/70 Me+12(9)11 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Wednesday September 13th, 2017 10:29:34 PM
Michael listens to his commander. putting the package in his haversack till he has time to look at it.
was there any indication of the type of dragon? Or any info over what the wizards name was. Is there a map of the keep?
Prudence Gundle Wednesday September 13th, 2017 11:23:18 PM
"Well," says Pru, "we've been hearing rumors of a dragon for some time. I wonder if it's the same one we fought before? Anyway, if we're to fight a wizard, I'm glad we have Akir with us."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- 24/14/21 HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 d20+15=32 ; Wednesday September 13th, 2017 11:39:00 PM
Anna thinks about what she knows of dragons and shares what she knows about the creatures. (Know[arcana]:32)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Thursday September 14th, 2017 1:55:22 AM
OOC: sorry, fell asleep and nearly forgot to post
IC: "It would be quite the coincidence to be the same dragon but I guess it doesn't matter. That green dragon joined up with that undead witch so I'd not be surprised to see that it joined up with a wizard."
Pompous AC 26 CMD 24/19, HP 64/81 Thursday September 14th, 2017 6:30:56 AM
Sarcastically, Pompous says under his breath... " Sounds like fun... maybe picking up an arrow of slaying or two is on order before we leave...."
Akir Al'Kaban - AC 19 - Hp 90/90 (Ken E) Thursday September 14th, 2017 10:37:56 AM
Akir frowns.
"Dragons mean spell resistance, and that is a problem for many of my spells. As a mixed specialist, I have a hard time. I'll likely be augmenting my allies here. Especially you, Pompous. There's also their fear auras to consider..."
Thinking a bit more, he listens to the conversation.
"We estimate it's a green dragon? That information will be useful when choosing defenses." He realizes he is postulating quite a bit in front of the Knight Commander, and he brings his musings to heel.
"That is all something for soldiers to figure out, our orders have been given. Is there anything else, Knight Commander?"
New Faces, New Challenges d20+23=41 ; Thursday September 14th, 2017 4:40:01 PM
Sigvar muses about a draconic ally, though if it green as they are guessing, that's not too likely. In fact, they wonder if this could be the same dragon they fought in the wood a few missions back.
"It doesn't sound like anyone survived a close encounter with the dragon or wizard. If they did, Lord Klirt didn't give me that information. There may be plans to the original keep lying around, but it was falling apart before he took it over and the workers had started gutting it for the redesign, so I'm not sure it would do much good."
Still, an idea of color gives them a direction, and it doesn't sound like there's any rush to making preparations. They have the several hours before they need to set out.
Trayvin AC 27/12 touch Hp 86/86(BrianZ) Thursday September 14th, 2017 5:48:48 PM
"Regardless of what type of dragon it is, we will need to deal with fear and breath weapons. If we prepare for those we can adjust for the rest."
"We should meet with Lord Klirt and see what other information he may have."
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 27 (T 12, FF 25) CMD 29 HP 114/114 Character Sheet Thursday September 14th, 2017 7:42:55 PM
Before they leave Sigvar has more questions for the Knight Commander. " Any news of the signet ring Tinker provided? Was it the sigil of the woman you thought it might be, and if so is she really gone? This 'wizard' may just be her in another guise working with the dragon she was already allied with. We could be walking into another trap by taking this lord's coin and cause." He waits to see what the librarians have come up with regarding the Signet ring Tinker found and thought might belong to the undead woman that ravaged the outdoor meeting before they left on R&R.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP55/70 Me+12(9)11 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Thursday September 14th, 2017 11:00:02 PM
Michael opens the package and finds a book beneath the wrappings. there is a letter inside as well. He reads it.
Dear Mr. Wittman,
it is my hope that you are well. while I had no meaningful information regarding Will-O-Wisps when first you wrote to me I have since taken possession of several books that mention them. Your descriptions of the battle between your Agents and the Gnoll/Wisps was quite fascinating and it has kept me alert for any info regarding them. you will find in this package the following.
Trask's field guide to creatures of the swamp by Lucent Trask
Practical swamp survival by Tim Sorenthal.
The last book is odd. I found no name upon it, and it seems to be a journal of some sort. but I was thinking of your request when I opened it and low and behold if there was not some mention of a fight with Will-O-Wisps on the first page. I have included it for completeness sake.
I hope these books help to answer your questions.
I am.
Arcan Shath Dean of Acquisitions Floating City. Wildlands.
curious Michael thumbs through the books, not looking for anything in particular, just skimming. he figures he'll delve deeper later. when he gets to the journal he gets a shock! both figuratively and physically. the first page has an essay over practice techniques to make fighting with your off hand more accurate. Idea's come to mind, and he thinks, man that's helpful, I think I'll write down some of my own insights and practice the ones within..
he follows the rest of the party toward the meeting with the client, but he's got his nose stuck in a book the whole way.
Prudence Gundle Thursday September 14th, 2017 11:35:40 PM
"Well, it sounds as if speaking with this Lord Klirt is our next step," Pru says.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- 24/14/21 HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Thursday September 14th, 2017 11:56:33 PM
Anna says, "Some of my plant forms impart certain energy resistances so depending on what type of dragon we are fighting it may makes sense for me to turn into a plant creature."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Friday September 15th, 2017 12:19:48 AM "Yes, it's just guesswork right now. We'll only find out answers on location."
Turning to his commander, he hands over a couple of parchment sheets. "I know we were on vacation and a formal combat report is not the norm, we feel that for the records, the account of the presence of vampires in the region of Pru's home town is very important to in respect to the Mailed Fist doing good things not just for the money, as we did this on our own volition."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- 24/14/21 HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Friday September 15th, 2017 6:21:53 AM
Anna chimes in, "Not to mention the cave trolls we fought with Tinker's people also of our own volition. Ma'am I just had a thought. I know in the wake of the schism that the Fist isn't as respected as it once was and I know that yes we do what we do for coin, but might it make sense to essentially create a good will Fist sending them out to essentially just do good in general? I know we as an organization would foot the bill for this pro bono work but wouldn't it make people think of the Fist in a positive light and actually potentially attract more future business?"
New Faces, New Challenges Friday September 15th, 2017 3:34:52 PM
Palance shuffles some papers, then answers Sigvar's question about the signet ring.
"It appears that the witchfire was a reincarnation of a woman who referred to herself as "Madame Wizard" who attempted to take over the peninsula many years ago. We sent a large contingent to battle here and ended up leveling her keep in a large explosion. Apparently she was spiteful enough to come back. I don't think she can come back from being destroyed though, so this new wizard must be a new player."
To Anna: "Don't worry. Our PR team is hard at work improving our reputation in the area and beyond. I'll mention the idea of a 'good samaritan' group that can do some good in the countrside."
She also thanks Nikolai for his professionalism and makes a note to followup on the undead presence to make sure it's well and truly gone.
Departing through the front gate, it is not long before they come to the inn at the crossroads. There is a grand carriage outside and many horses bearing the same livery. Entering the inn, they find that is has in essence been taken over by a small man in expensive looking clothing on a chaise in the corner who they can only assume is Lord Klirt. A buxom woman stand near him waving a fan while others rush around keeping his snack tray and his wineglass full. A guard stands to one side, trying to look intimidating, but not managing much more than frowny.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 27 (T 12, FF 25) CMD 29 HP 114/114 Character Sheet d20+14=30 ; d20+6=22 ; Friday September 15th, 2017 6:02:14 PM
Sigvar steps into the Inn and squints at the noble and his circus with his one good eye. This will be trying, I can see it now He stands at parade rest to one side of the door. Idly he wonders if this man is trying to abuse their help. He looks the place over with a warriors eye. As the others chat with the man he quietly concentrates on detecting if the man, or his hirelings are evil. He also listens to the man's words, trying to judge their truth and sincerity. Perception 30 Sense Motive 22 Detect Evil
Pompous AC 26 CMD 24/19, HP 64/81 Friday September 15th, 2017 7:18:28 PM
Pompous walks in the inn (hey, that rhymes!) behind Sigvar. Not being as discreet as his partner, the rangers gets two glasses of wine before making his way towards the so called "buxom woman".
With a wink and a nudge, he addresses the lady..
" How you doin'?!?"
Trayvin AC 27/12 touch Hp 86/86(BrianZ) Friday September 15th, 2017 8:15:20 PM
"Well, looks like he's well-funded." Trayvin steps to the side and lets the other Agents make the formal introductions. He looks around to make a few general observations about the Lord and his retinue.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP55/70 Me+12(9)11 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Friday September 15th, 2017 10:04:12 PM
Michael enters the inn, stows his book and sizes the client up. Well to do. used to being served. probably thinks of us as hired thugs, one step above trash. he needs us though, so he's willing to associate to get what he wants. need to be professional and distant. obsequiousness and subservience will make him think he is in control and ensure that he will not answer our questions,
Michael walk up to the man and nods his head in a semblance of bow. Lord Klirt, I presume. I am Staff Sgt Michael Wittman. My commander said that you have retained our services and that you have a problem infesting your keep. I'd like to get the story from you. what exactly do you know? when did this all start? do you have any names or descriptions?
Michael then proceeds to grill the man, not being harsh, but getting the full story. Who, what where, when why, and how. He even re asks the same question in a different way hoping to tease out fact that were unintentionally hidden.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC24, T19, FF18 (ucdodge) HP82/82 Me+14(9)13 for TW,F+6, R+14,W+7, CMB+12, CMD+24 Friday September 15th, 2017 10:25:22 PM
header updated.
Akir Al'Kaban - AC 19 - Hp 90/90 (Ken E) Friday September 15th, 2017 11:43:35 PM
Akir is more than happy to let the others ask all the questions. He's somewhat impressed at the initiative the members of the Fist take, without much prompting at all from Nikolai.
"Is your Fist always this pro-active?", he asks under his breath to Nikolai.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- 24/14/21 HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 d20+9=17 ; Saturday September 16th, 2017 5:34:45 AM
Anna starts talking to the horses. She starts by introducing herself, "Hello noble horses. I am Anna Morphling a servant of Queen Ma'ab."
She then asks the liveried horses, "How are you being treated in your service to Lord Klirt?"
(Wild Empathy: 17)
Prudence Gundle d20+16=34 ; Saturday September 16th, 2017 4:28:01 PM
Pru also approaches Lord Klirt, and tries to somewhat soften Michael's bluntness. "We of course extend our deepest sympathies to you and yours for the damage and uproar all this has caused," she says. "We would like to resolve this as quickly as possible so that things can get back to normal."
[Diplomacy 34]
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+15=35 ; Sunday September 17th, 2017 10:47:02 PM
Nikolai watches as the others take the initiative to initiate the conversation. Perception +15 (looking for the man's general demeanor towards the Fist members)= 35
OOC: using old stats, I'll finish updating PC sheet once we get our loot share and purchases.
He whispers sideways to Akir, [I]"Yes. It allows me to watch more carefully and assess our 'opponent' before he knows who's the titled 'leader'.'[/b]
Noticing Lord Klirt's demeanor, that is, setting up court wherever he is, he realizes this is going to be very, very formal.
Nikolai approaches Lord Klirt and bows courtly, as best he can remember since he's not done this in a very long time, and presents the lord with a document. "This is our contract needing your signature. It includes the Terms of Service and the guarantee that what we find in the old keep is ours to keep as a Finder's Fee. If you agree to the terms, you've got yourself one of the best Fists in the Mailed Fist at your service, Sir," and he finishes with a salute. Bowing to the man to often might not be a good idea. Better to look more military like.
New Faces, New Challenges Monday September 18th, 2017 4:34:41 PM
Sigvar takes one step in and is already tired. He scans the group and there is no presence of evil. Plenty of haughtiness and greed though. Trayvin notes similar things. There is nothing hidden about this man. He either isn't clever enough to hide his avarice or doesn't care enough to try.
Michael is no nonsense, making sure sure Lord Klirt knows who they are and that while they are working for him, they are by no means servants, and will complete the job as they see fit. Nikolai nods his approval at the method and follows it up with some official documents. Pru is there as always to make sure the stick is at least sugar coated.
Akir just observes. He will have to get used to how a special unit functions.
Meanwhile, Anna is outside with the horses. She sees no signs of mistreatment. In fact, Lord Klirt probably cares more for his horses than his human staff, as a less than perfectly healthy horse would lower his standing among his peers.
Lord Klirt assesses Michael, who gets the feeling that he would be beneath his notice if he were there alone. However, since it is clear that this is who has been assigned to help him, he deigns to answer their questions.
"Oh, I got this keep as a birthday present. It's needs a lot of work of course, but I'm sure it will be the place to go for the best parties once it's renovated. Of course the dragon will need to be dealt with first. Now of course, I wasn't there, but one of my Guardsmen was driving a wagon of supplies to the keep and saw it from afar. A dragon swooped in and ate several live workers, and scared the others into fleeing. Following the dragon was a small flying figure who shot fire from his or her hands! Can you imagine?! Shooting fire! At my keep! I assume they're still ensconced there. It's only been a week.
The guard had to be let go for not rushing in to slay the vile beasts of course. As for whatever you find there, the keep was rotting away before I took over. You're welcome to whatever baubles you may find. We'll be needing new tapestries and fixtures anyway."
"
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 27 (T 12, FF 25) CMD 29 HP 114/114 Character Sheet d20+4=10 ; d20+6=17 ; d20+6=19 ; d20+14=33 ; d20+15=16 ; Monday September 18th, 2017 5:37:02 PM
Sigvar can think of several follow up questions to the starter ones, but for now just observes. The man isn't evil, and isn't stupid. He knows that alot of his reputation is just that, reputation and he has to act a certain way to maintain that. So long as they don't challenge him then they will get the things they need, like information and whatever help he can provide. The thing is, alot of this sounds jarringly familiar to the Minotaur. That lady, the one that shot green sickening fire from her hands was an undead returned to take vengeance on the Fist. She had a dragon that was supposedly helping her, a green dragon. The dragon knew trouble when it saw it and skedaddled rather than press a fight it was losing vs the Agents. It then also declined flying over and strafing the Citadel at her command. In those regards the dragon was apparently smart enough to know tactics and when to quit. She was defeated, but was she? She dissipated when she took too much damage, but did that free her soul and return her to the foot of Gargul's throne to be judged? Sigvar thought it might not. It could be her spirit survived and sought a new host, leading to the problem they now faced. With some protections and knowledge of the Fist it had already faced, the dragon, and the undead lady could be drawing them into a trap. While the others keep questioning Lord Klirt, Sigvar steps to the bar, orders a couple of mugs of ale and heads over to the bodygaurd. The guy was probably already on edge because the last guard had been fired for not charging to his death. With job expectations like that, who wouldn't be on edge. Sigvar offers him one of the mugs and tries to talk shop with him. Profession soldier 10 Sense Motive 17 Diplomacy 19 Perception 33 " Some job expectations, eh? You don't charge blindly into a situation that you can't handle and you get fired for it? At least the guy is still alive. You know where he is? Did he talk to you about what happened? I want some more details, so I can get a better read on what we are walking into, so anything you know might help. What color was the fire that this wizard was shooting from his hands? Did the other guard say what color the dragon was or what type for breath it used to frighten the other workers from the keep?" Sigvar also ponders what kind of undead that lady might have been with his new Gargul granted knowledge. Knowledge Religion 16
Pompous AC 25 CMD 25/2, HP 87/87 Monday September 18th, 2017 8:03:11 PM
" He was fired for not facing the fire... how punny is that?"
Pompous, wearing his new gear, occasionally winks at the buxom fan waver...
Pompous AC 25 CMD 25/2, HP 87/87 Monday September 18th, 2017 8:03:11 PM
" He was fired for not facing the fire... how punny is that?"
Pompous, wearing his new gear, occasionally winks at the buxom fan waver...
Trayvin AC 27/12 touch Hp 86/86(BrianZ) Monday September 18th, 2017 8:35:11 PM
Trayvin tries a different tactic.
"Well, I can certainly understand why you had to let that employee go. I assure you we will not be so easily frightened away. It would be useful for us to question the guard, so we can determine just how scared he was. That should help us prepare for facing this duo."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC24, T19, FF18 (ucdodge) HP82/82 Me+14(9)13 for TW,F+6, R+14,W+7, CMB+12, CMD+24 Monday September 18th, 2017 8:39:03 PM You fired..him? interesting. any idea what color the dragon was? Oh yes the guard you fired knew that. Why exactly did you stop by here to talk to us? do you have any salient useful facts at all you can impart to us? a key to the keep perhaps so we don't have to bust down the doors to get in? a map to the place or a guide to get us there?
If this turkey has no more information when Michael can he extracts himself from the situation and goes to the Fist Armory.
Hey Chief, I'm not getting any satisfaction at the Catacombs. they want to sell me 50 Dragon bane holy arrows and all I need is 4. What can you do for me?
Akir Al'Kaban - AC 19 - Hp 90/90 (Ken E) Monday September 18th, 2017 9:09:38 PM
Akir raises an eyebrow at Nikolai.
"Tactful bunch."
His arms crossed, he figures at this point there's not a whole lot else they can get from the man, other than maybe the name and location of the fired guard and the color of the dragon. If they pushed him too hard, they might not even get that.
Still, Akir knew he had a tendency to rub people the wrong way. He also knew, from discussion long ago, that some of his philosophies lined up different from Nikolais. He could understand the firing of the guard, in a way.
Not one for crowds, Akir slips outside, and notices Anna.
"They say that animals are probably better company than humans because they don't think they're better than anyone else. They do what they do, and allow the same. What's your opinion?"
Prudence Gundle d20+16=35 ; Monday September 18th, 2017 10:11:14 PM
Pru winces a little at her Fist-mates' bluntness. Well, we're soldiers, not diplomats, she thinks.
Still, she can attempt to soften the rough edges a little. Her friends have already asked the pertinent questions, so she concentrates on soothing any potentially ruffled feathers.
"That sounds really scary," she says. "It's no wonder you're upset. But we're very good at what we do, you know, so if you give us all the information you can, I'm sure you'll be throwing those parties in no time."
[Diplomacy 35]
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- 24/14/21 HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Monday September 18th, 2017 10:15:18 PM
Anna says to Akir, "Well I figure you can learn something about somebody by how they treat the animals in their care and employ. I happen to have been blessed by my lady, Queen Ma'ab with the ability to empathize and communicate with animals. Among our company the ability to talk with plants and animals is a unique ability that I possess but I believe Nikolai and Pompous can also empathisze with them. With that being said I am not without my abilities that I can use on humanoids but my abilities towards humanoids are better used for subterfuge and dissembling. I can disguise myself as anyone including their voice however I will wait to hear what the others have to report before I essentially lie to our employer."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday September 19th, 2017 12:47:44 AM
Nikolai puts away the singed contract and pulls out a map and unrolls it then approaches Lord Klirt. "Here's a map of the area. Show us the location of the keep and the location of your home. And while you're at it, where we can find this guard. Oh, and excuse our bluntness. We've encountered a dragon a month or so ago and are curious if it is the same one," he smiles as he holds the map in front of the lord.
New Faces, New Challenges Tuesday September 19th, 2017 4:44:02 PM
It seems that the blend of blunt fighter types softened by Pru's charm does the trick. However, Lord Klirt doesn't seem to have that much useful knowledge. "Oh I'm sure the guard may know more. He's probably sulking in some bar or other in Wedding City over the unfairness of it all. As if a lowly guardsman could really understand the complexities of how their better employ people. I can say that he didn't mention the dragon breathing anything at the time, and I'm sure if the fire from the wizard was strange, he would have mentioned that too."
He marks a location on the map that appears to be about 2 days travel almost directly south of the Citadel.
The fan girl blushes a bit at Pompous, but doesn't stray from her duties. He'll have to stop by again once the Lord has vacated.
Meanwhile, Akir escapes the confines of the inn to chat with Anna about the company of animals.
Michael, having stormed out of the inn and back into the Citadel courtyard, strikes up a conversation with the Blacksmith on duty. "Sorry, Mikey. Palance did pass down a thought about some weapons useful against dragons when that one decided to buzz the Citadel, but we've been backed up on orders since then. If you want me to fast track some arrows, I could get to work on them in a few days. Sorry I can't help you now. But let me know if you want to trade in that rapier for a set of nunchaku or something."
Akir Al'Kaban - AC 19 - Hp 90/90 (Ken E) d20+10=13 ; Tuesday September 19th, 2017 5:37:41 PM
Akir grins, his thin mustache and beard framing his bright white teeth.
"Anna Morph, you have the potential to be positively terrifying. It's not your nature, but the matter of fact way you state what you can do. I look forward to seeing your work."
He produces an apple from his bag and feeds it to one of the horses before giving the mount a heavy pat on the neck. He whistles to himself, hands in his pockets, and he makes a quick round about the tavern, looking for anything or anyone out of place.
If something seems not right, he will stop in his pacings and observe. If everything seems okay, he will complete the lap, and lean against wall near the entrance and observe those coming in and out.
Perception: 13
Shane P Michael Wittman AC24, T19, FF18 (ucdodge) HP82/82 Me+14(9)13 for TW,F+6, R+14,W+7, CMB+12, CMD+24 Tuesday September 19th, 2017 8:40:15 PM Well crud, Thanks for the honest answer Cheif, We got a Dragon infestation problem, We were hoping to get our archer some Dragon bane Holy arrows. Our new..uh...battle wizard? thinks he can make them even more effective. Have you met Akir yet? Akir Al'Kaban. he really seems to know his stuff. Is there anybody else you know of who could get us the arrows? I think this is kind of a rush job. We got a foppish noble wants his keep cleared in time for him to throw a party.
Michael sighs. his time in the catacombs was really really frustrating. He thinks he probably could have been a little more tactful with the Lord Klirt. but then again. In the mood he was in if, the fop would have talked down to him he might have had to open a vein in his leg. He catches himself. Tinker would be ashamed he was contemplating such thoughts....Man I miss you brother, you made me a better person
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 27 (T 12, FF 25) CMD 29 HP 114/114 Character Sheet Tuesday September 19th, 2017 9:13:26 PM " Thank you." Sigvar exits the Inn. He really didn't know what kind of undead the woman was or if she might be able to possess another host. That was frustrating. He waits outside to see if the others want to pursue questioning the guard or if they feel ready to go after the dragon and wizard. Seeing Akir, Sigvar reaches into his pack and approaches the Wizard. " Do you know how to make people fly Akir? Prudence suggested I get a scroll so I could keep up with the dragon, but I like being self reliant so I bought a potion, but I got a scroll too, in case we had time to prepare. Maybe it would be better if you learned the scroll and put it in your spellbook. That way you could make more than one of us fly, and get the melee folks up near this thing. I felt left out in the vampire fight since the old man hugged the ceiling the entire fight. I only got to hit him once, although I made short work of his minions." Sigvar offers Akir the scroll.
Pompous AC 25 CMD 25/2, HP 87/87 Tuesday September 19th, 2017 9:22:12 PM
Our hero notice's the fan girl's blush. He smiles to her a promise and then turns back towards the bar. Better to not get her in to much trouble with her lord.
Trayvin AC 27/12 touch Hp 86/86(BrianZ) Tuesday September 19th, 2017 10:15:02 PM
"Don't worry Michael. If we can't the arrows you need from the Citadel, another solution will present itself. We always find a way. Maybe one of us could add an enchantment for you during the fight."
Prudence Gundle Tuesday September 19th, 2017 10:21:34 PM
"Thank you very much--er, Your Lordship," Pru says, hoping she got that right. "The Mailed Fist is on the case."
She joins her Fist-mates out in the courtyard. "I'd say we have as much information as we're going to get here," she says. "Are we ready to go dragon-hunting?"
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- 24/14/21 HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 d20+10=19 ; d20+31=50 ; d20+10=26 ; Tuesday September 19th, 2017 11:59:26 PM
Anna grins back at Akir and says, "I also look forward to see what someone who has been trained in the Eagle style of blending martial and magical arts can do. I met a gnome once who was trying to do something similar but I think he was part sorcerer and part monk or was it just a dream? I seem to remember something about Yule, curious."
When she hears the news from Michael she says, "I don't suppose adding 4 more of those types of arrows using my gold could get us a rush job...hang on I got an idea to use my Morphling powers to help here but maybe Nikolai should sign off on this as I'm kind of unclear as to its legality."
She goes to Nikolai and whispers, "Permission to turn into Commander Palance and then order the Smith to sell us the arrows that Pompous needs as a rush job?"
If Nikolai assents she gets near to the smith's shop and looks for some place she can discretely alter her appearance.
She then activates her Alter Self Morphamancy with her perfect disguise ability to assume to form of Commander Palance (Disguise: 50; with the +10 bonus from using the SLA) and enters Smitty's forge.
She clears her throat and says, "I understand there is some confusion as to the provisioning of Nikolai's Fist? Please see to it they can get everything they need on priority."
If the smith assents she says, "As you were." then turns curtly and walks out of the shop. She looks for another place she can go to end her disguise, taking care to observe if anyone is following her (Perception: 26) She resolves not to end the disguise if she is being followed and tries to lose any potential tail.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday September 20th, 2017 12:00:40 AM
Nikolai thanks the lord for his directions. "We've got a little business to wrap up here at the Citadel first but that should only take the rest of the day. We should be heading out tomorrow morning if our Commander is satisfied with these documents. Thanks for your help and we'll keep in touch."
Nikolai bows then leaves. Outside he hears someone mention flying to keep up with the dragon. "Not a good idea unless we all can do the same. I don't want anyone flying off alone. The dragon has that wizard companion to help so don't do some rash heroics that split us up."
Nikolai felt sheepish saying that but they've done that before so at least they have the official orders to stay together.
"Lord Klirt said the guard that survived may be in Wedding City. Do we risk that trip to possibly not find him or find out he knows nothing much or head straight for the keep? I'm open to suggestions."
Akir Al'Kaban - AC 19 - Hp 90/90 (Ken E) Wednesday September 20th, 2017 12:24:10 AM
Akir waves to Sigvar, then listens as he asks.
"No, I do not have that spell in my spellbook, though I could scribe it from your scroll. I am worried about the spells I will have at my disposal against the creature. Helping the rest of you reach it would be a better use of spell power than tossing fireballs or lightning bolts."
He shakes the scroll at Sigvar.
"You do not mind?"
When Pru asks if they are ready to leave for dragon hunting, he asks a question of his own.
"Could we figure out what color the dragon is? Did he know, or are we going to have to go in blind?"
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 27 (T 12, FF 25) CMD 29 HP 114/114 Character Sheet Wednesday September 20th, 2017 4:39:32 AM " I do not mind. Having us more prepared means you all do not need visit my lord to ask favors. He is a busy god." " As for the guard I say risk that he knows nothing and look for him. Akir is not like Prudence. He need to prepare his spells in advance. If he prepares lightning and it is immune or resistant, then he is reduced to his swordsmanship, throwing years of study to the side to bash his foe like a savage. Plus, I would like to know what kind of spells to pray for to protect us and be as effective as possible. I say look for the guardsman." Sigvar certainly has changed. A few days ago, he would not have mentioned the distinction between how sorcerers and Wizards prepare their spells, nor spoken so harshly against his treasured melee skills.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday September 20th, 2017 6:38:22 AM
Nikolai frowns at Anna's suggestion. "Not a good idea, specially right here at the Citadel. We'll do it by the Book and I'll talk to the Blacksmith and get it done legally. If need be we can have Commander Palance sign off on a rush job. I don't want to have to deal with a Court Martial upon our triumphant return."
That being said, Nikolai heads off to the smithy and asks the blacksmith what are the orders that fall before some Dragon Slaying Arrows. He then takes that list to Commander Palance and asks her permission to authorized the blacksmith to expedite the arrows past those orders on the list.
New Faces, New Challenges Wednesday September 20th, 2017 5:30:37 PM
Palance looks over Nikolai's request, but regretfully shakes her head. "Sorry, we can't just put your orders before everyone else's. If we let someone's wealth determine what jobs get priority, we start to lose the honour of the Fist all over again. I'm afraid you'll just have to manage without this time."
It doesn't seem like there's much more to learn here. Nikolai weighs the merits of a trip to Wedding City, but going there and back will add near 10 days to their travel time, for only a chance of finding the right guard and hoping he remembers things clearly after a week in his cups. Though their arrow order may well be ready by the time they get back. But who knows what mischief a dragon and a wizard can get up to in almost 2 weeks?
With all the new strategy though, they are more prepared than they have been for many fights, and have always come out on top before. They certainly beat the snot out of the last dragon that thought to challenge them.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 27 (T 12, FF 25) CMD 29 HP 114/114 Character Sheet Wednesday September 20th, 2017 8:22:19 PM
As they walk, Sigvar wants to know more about their foe. " Who can tell me what to expect from a dragon? I mean, I know the basics. Big, scaly, hard to penetrate scales, some kind of elemental breath weapon, lots of melee attacks, but what else? There has to be more to them."
Akir Al'Kaban - AC 19 - Hp 90/90 (Ken E) Wednesday September 20th, 2017 8:31:31 PM
Akir points out what he knows.
"They also have fear auras, as well as different special powers based on their colors. Some can burrow through the ground, others can slow you with their breath. It just depends."
He scratches his chin.
"As far as your spells are concerned, anything that helps those who fail to stand firm in it's presence is useful. Spells that resist energy damage don't require us to designate what kind of energy before hand, so they work as well."
He shrugs.
"I'll try to handle as many of those incidentals as I can. I'll prepare scrolls against fear, energy, and prepare fly spells. I may not be able to hurt it much directly, but I can enable others to do their job all that much better. Short of illusions and enchantments, I'm flexible."
Trayvin AC 27/12 touch Hp 86/86(BrianZ) Wednesday September 20th, 2017 9:35:26 PM
"You have it mostly covered Sigvar. Just one more thing. They are smart. Really smart. They aren't dumb brutes with some fire breath. They expect to win any fight and will use tactics to do so. With a wizard's help, they will be a challenge."
Pompous AC 25 CMD 25/2, HP 87/87 Wednesday September 20th, 2017 9:58:15 PM
To our hero, trust doesn't come easily. All of this information about the foes they will soon be facing all seems to "convenient" .
The Ranger leans on his bow, as he tends to do when thinking and says out loud, to no one in particular...
" Doesn't this all sound to easy to everyone? 'Hey heroes, one dragon and one wizard now go get ready!' What are the chances that this is all just a deception? "
Prudence Gundle d20+10=14 ; Wednesday September 20th, 2017 10:17:12 PM
Pru listens to the information about dragons, but has nothing to add. [Knowledge: Arcana 14]
Akir says, "Spells that resist energy damage don't require us to designate what kind of energy before hand."
"Mine do," Pru sighs. "I can only protect people against fire. I guess that's because I'm only a sorcerer."
"I can link us together telepathically, though," she adds. "That might be good for strategy and stuff."
Pompous suggests that it might all be a deception. Pru grins. "Yes, maybe it's just a goblin with a bag of rotten fruit. I hope so!"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday September 20th, 2017 10:33:29 PM "We'll manage, Sir, but I thought it wouldn't hurt to ask." He salutes and leaves. Rejoining his friends he tells them what the commander said.
"Sorry, friends, we'll just have to do with what we've got. But that's ok, we'll come up with some novel idea that never occurred to them."
Nikolai anxiously awaits the results of the Catacomb transactions. The cash could help in this endeavor against the dragon and it's wizard partner.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- 24/14/21 HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 d20+15=18 ; Thursday September 21st, 2017 12:04:33 AM
(Know[Arcana]: 18)
Anna also has nothing to add considering she was distracted by the whole ordeal with the order of arrows.
"What makes more sense Allosaurus versus Dragon, Behemoth Hippopotamus versus Dragon or Stegosaurus verus Dragon. I can finally take the forms of Huge Animals and I would have to say those are probably my best options. Come to think of it can Dragons be tripped?" She asks her fistmates.
Akir Al'Kaban - AC 19 - Hp 90/90 (Ken E) Thursday September 21st, 2017 2:13:11 AM
Akir laughs at the absurd, but also sincere sentence Anna put together.
"I think the Hippo is your best choice, Anna. Maybe your larger size would make the dragon weaker to a grapple! And besides, if we cast fly on you first, the sight of a behemoth hippopotamus flying through the sky after a dragon would fill a million dinner conversations with wonder."
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 27 (T 12, FF 25) CMD 29 HP 114/114 Character Sheet Thursday September 21st, 2017 4:39:56 AM " OK, I can handle most of those possibilities." Sigvar stops and gathers his friends. He begins to explain his time in the chapel, showing them the note he found upon awakening "Like I mentioned before, Gargul has transformed me. After the Vampire, where I sat in a magic circle and was unable to reach the enemy for almost the whole fight and feared that my weak mind would be our undoing I prayed to him to make me the Minotaur my mother envisioned to help save my clan. As he is fond of eyes, and of followers that know he will have their backs when they are devout, I gave him one of my own." Sigvar raises the eye-patch to reveal an empty socket. The wound is healed, but it does not appear that the eye was removed gracefully or with any kind of precision. " In return, he forged me into a weapon that can fight well against most foes and decimates evil, dragons, demons and mostly, undead. Through my trust in him, fear no longer affects me, nor does my mind lend itself to being controlled by outside forces. Several times a day when I will it, Gargul's wrath will descend on an evil foe I choose and make me the instrument of their destruction. My strikes will be more accurate and my blade will do more damage to them. My armor will also deflect their attacks better. I can also call upon a spirit to inhabit my blade and grace it with some magical properties." "Gone are my fighting with two weapon skills and my ability to down multiple opponents when they move within my reach. My skill with a shield is now the same as any Fist trained warrior. He made me smarter and more compassionate, but it cost me the nimbleness I once had. He granted me spells that enhance my combat abilities and the power to tell evil in people and places. Our new employer may be a self centered fop, but his intent is not evil. So on that, I doubt HE is sending us into a trap, though the fact we knew nothing of the only other caster we have faced that had a dragon for help remains, and she may well be the wizard, and laying a trap for us." " His protection against fear extends to those close to me, but as I intend to be in melee with the dragon if it chooses to fight, that may be of limited use to some of you who fight best at range. So I can protect myself against the fear, the breath, defeat the thick scales, at present fly enough to be a threat and his power in me allows me to heal damage to myself through positive energy." " That is where I stand in readiness, how fare the rest of you?"
LOG ON