DM Robert - "That way we can possible grab the initiative instead of running around a step or two behind him--or her." Tuesday May 14th, 2019 8:14:33 PM
Stoph is all about putting a stop to Crimson. But then she remembers that the party is still on a mission.
Micah knows that the party needs evidence that will hold up in court. The merchants may be too scared to act. And his brother may be in danger. Then he remembers that there was one of the books that Sir Stephan Imbry stole, and according to Imbry's diary was enough to get "C" off his back...But it was hidden.
Stock thinks the party should just start taking out the thugs threatening merchants. Whittle them down as it were.
Bartomus likes the way Stock is thinking.
Dorbin dashes through the streets.
Zanderallen wonder about visiting Lord Paragon Belkior, after all he was a former adventurer in the Crimson Shields of Hope, plus he's on the city council. Zanderallen heads down the stairs after realizing Dorbin has taken off.
Dirk? Sid?
=============== John's OOC: I am not understanding something. Torbin is out of his immediate money problems and he gave over the book. Is his angst merely worrying about his future lumber business or am I missing something? = Reply, he's caught up with his payments and payroll, but there are still payroll and expenses looming.
OOC: The missing book:-Ust Delmah by Glenn Hembree Brown leather 11 by 9. This is a one of a kind. It is a leather journal chronicle the adventures of the Crimson Shields fighting a criminal boss that styled himself Lord Diamond. It was never put into actual publication because of a City Edict. = Reply, INDEED Where would be the best place to hide a book...specifically a place that Imbry would possible frequent if he needed to get his hands on it. ---
Torbin's head whirls as the party speaks about doing things and getting things done. "Look I know this may not be my place to say, and I know that I'm surely partly responsible for the insurance racket. But I don't think you can just round up the enforcers and sweat them. The guard has tried that and I hear there's some lawsuits no pending against the guard for harassment, illegal search, and false arrest. The problem is that the merchants are still too afraid to press any charges because of fears of their own safety. I mean how can we know we arrested all of them at the same time?"
Knowledge Local 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { to know the laws, he's right, you would need to have a witness to testify, that means getting a merchant to agree to testify, or setting up a sting like operation to catch them trying to 'sell' a new insurance policy.}
Knowledge History 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { There are historically 2 options in this kind of operation. 1 - Catch some of the lower fish in the act, get them to spill on higher ups to get a lighter sentence. 2 - devise a system of tailing the criminals to find out who they are working for and where they are meeting. }
Torbin considers what he knows of the Shields and their abilities. "I guess I probably should turn evidence of what I know...If you guys can protect me and my family. Though I'm not sure how much good it will do toward actually getting any kind of conviction without more evidence."
Zanderallen looks out the door at the bottom of the steps. There he sees Pepper Plate, the spunky red headed reporter of the Weekly Herald sitting on her tush and looking up the street. She is waving a closed fist in anger. Zanderallen can just see the top of Dorbin's head as he rounds a corner.
Torbin then turns to Sid. "I know what I said earlier about partnerships. And generally that's true but it appears matters may be out of my hands. There's payroll that is going to need to be met next week. I only have half the money for that, and if I can't pay that, I'll be in arrears to my employees. I've got to find some way to get more business I'm going to have to let people go. How fast can we get this garbage collection serive going? We're going to need to have contracts either with the city.....or maybe privately with different businesses."
As it stands now you can continue with your mission to gather items, of which you've managed to get 3 so far. However, there appears to be bigger problems afoot in The Float. Where do the Shield's priorities lie? ____________________________________ OOC As it stands now, you've come up with several avenues of investigation, updated... Do you want the book descriptions added in?
2 - Check on Sir Stephan Imbry's past, you know he... a - owed back taxes b-owed money to the Gnomish Exhange (a bank) c - as well as Warrd’s House of Luck - Note Warrd's House of Luck is both a temple and a CASINO d - The journal mentions paying off gambling debts to Peerimon, and also mentions a "C" that he feels is too dangerous to try to blackmail. HOWEVER he does say that "C's" secret is in the book Ust Delmah by Glenn Hembree, and that he hid it somewhere...
5 - The missing loot...That's in The Float A - Sages' Guild: 1-bk, An Expedition to the Barrier Peaks, B - Lord Jonas Yeager: 2-bk, Pharaoh C - Lord Peerimon: 3- bk, The Oasis of the White Palm, and the painting The Drow NOTE: According to Imbry's journal/diary these books were given to Perimon to pay a gambling debt... Slave Pits of the Undercity, by David Cook; -Secrets of the Slavers Stockade, by Harold Johnson; -Assault on the Aerie of the Slave Lords, by Allen Hammack; -In the Dungeons of the Slave Lords, by Lawrence Schick, BUT, according to Sturgeus he Sold to Unger Platt in Plateau City D - Torbin Cook: 4 - bk, The Lost Tomb of Martek
In your possession:
3 painting has been recovered and returned so far.
"Too many hands weaken the steel," exclaims Micah, unintentionally quoting his father.
[b]"Stohp, you are right. We cannot do everything at once, but perhaps the recovered property is sufficient to keep Rosebud solvent for a while. Zander's suggestion may be the most efficient. The Paragon may be a useful ally both in pursuing Crimson and in approaching Lord Peerimon about the stolen goods in his possession. Whatever we do, however, for Domi's sake, let's do it together."
"Where's Dorbin? he exclaims when he processes the implication of Zanderallen's outburst.
======= Rolls in Stock's post were actually for micah Knowledge Local: 8 failure Knowledge History: 25 success
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+7=21 ; Wednesday May 15th, 2019 10:09:56 AM "Either will need to see these folks in action or the guards will to get them locked up," Bartomus said with frustrated certainty. He nodded at Torbin and watched in surprise as Zander went rushing out of the office and down the stairs. Micah's comment about weaken steel seemed to already be in play. "so, uh, do we follow, are we done here?" -- Kowledge local - 21
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Wednesday May 15th, 2019 12:03:14 PM
Doribn rushes into the sage's guild and directly up the stairs to start his search for more information.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Wednesday May 15th, 2019 7:10:41 PM
Sid nods, "We need to start now and worry about the fine details later dreams a good, but gold is practical. I obviously have business to attend to first. I'll meet you here tomorrow to go over details." Sid reaches into his bag and pulls out 500g and puts it on the table. "Here's some capital to prove I'm serious, we can talk about how much more we need to buy in for a proper partnership."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Wednesday May 15th, 2019 7:47:28 PM
Stohp face-palms. "Oh yeah, don't run off by yourself, let met run off by myself after you. Brilliant notion."
DM Robert - "That way we can possible grab the initiative instead of running around a step or two behind him--or her." Wednesday May 15th, 2019 8:21:44 PM
Stock agrees to protecting Torbin Cook and his family.
Micah theorizes that you have found and returned enough so far that Rosebud can take a back seat.
Bartomus feels frustration at the whole affair.
Doribn digs into the Sage's Library.
Sid puts his money where his mouth is, or at least on to the table.
Stohp is concerned that the party seems to be splitting up.
Zanderallen (In Zachary's defense, he had a rough day at work today.) Dirk? ------------------
Torbin is delighted with Sid's forthright manner. "Sir I thank you. I'm not the first person that tried to set up timbering in the woods, but I was at least smart enough not to cut the sentient part of the forest. Still it was a risk, The Float needs raw materials and farmland or it's not going to survive. It used to be on a different lake you know. Must be, oh, I don't know something like 15 years ago, used to be on a lake almost right next to Plateau City. Things were different then, more prosperous. Being hemmed in by these woods as stifled growth."
Knowledge local 20 or History 20 or Noble 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Indeed 10 years ago the then Lord Peerimon (not the one you currently know) set up a village to the west of the Float in an attempt to harvest the woodlands. It failed miserably. In fact the remains of that village were the ruins you found and set up as a waycamp for the rat/beastfolk before finding the Ziggurat. }
Zanderallen automatically offers a hand to the damsel to help her up. Pepper Plate brushes off her clothes. "Really that was quite rude of him. I suppose just because you are adventurers you think you've got the right to go charging about knocking people over." She blushes and then smiles at Zanderallen. "Well not all of you are rude." She quickly whips out her notebook. "I'm working on a story and need to ask you guys some questions."
Dorbin spends some Library, he will be gone for at least an hour. But here is what Dorbin finds. Highlight to display spoiler: {Many many years ago there was an an adventuring group called The Diamond Circle or The Diamond Blades, they battled some vampires on the merchant level. Then they left the city. There is some reference to a symbol of a diamond, alluding to the Lords of Diamonds group.
From your own past, Shredds and Father Arellius used a red metal medallion etched with a symbol of a diamond on each side.
The Big Float does not permit guilds, believing that such things take away from the freedoms of the citizens. Therefore, such guilds that exist are thinly disguised as clubs or individual businesses. The most prominent of these are the three distinct groups of thief organizations. These are the Rogues’ Fellowship, the Black Blades, and the Lord’s of Diamonds.
Apparently 10 years ago there was several assassinations of city leaders and the attempted assassination of the Overlord. At each assassination there was a calling card of a circle with a diamond etched on it on one side and a mock of a king of diamonds playing card but titled Lord Diamond. The culprits were caught by the Crimson Shields of Hope. There is no reference to who the culprits were or why the city council members were assassinated.}
So at this point the rest of the party needs to blow an hour. I need to know, 1, what are you going to do about Torbin and his family (1 wife 2 children in their mid teens). 2, Are you going to let Pepper Plate question you? 3, Where are you headed next?
"Miss Plate," Micah says in greeting, his warmest smile adorning his face. "I do not know what story you think we can help you with, but we are aware of something that could surely benefit from the type of exposure at which you are so capable of providing. It appears that the good people of the merchant level are being terrorized by a protection racket led by a man in red. The merchants would suffer horribly if they were to help you directly, but perhaps with your investigative skills you might uncover something that could help them and with them the entire Float."
================== Know History 18 fail Diplomacy 31 against Pepper to divert her to focus on thugs.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Wednesday May 15th, 2019 10:26:05 PM "We will protect you and your family. Any chance you could move in with us on the Fence level? When can you leave?" offers Stock as he starts looking for things they will need to take with them to HQ.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Thursday May 16th, 2019 4:38:04 PM
Dorbin stays buried in his books and cross-reference checks in the library.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Thursday May 16th, 2019 6:32:47 PM
Zander lets Micah set the reporter on the path of the criminals. He hopes Dorbin isn't getting into trouble but he's not splitting the party further
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+16=18 ; Thursday May 16th, 2019 7:27:42 PM
Sid nods, "Well now we'll make a new day my friend. One step at a time. Now, my companions are leaving me so until tomorrow. Just send a message to the Split Arrow or the the Shield's HQ is anything changes.
Sid runs out after the whomever is the last to leave.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Thursday May 16th, 2019 7:49:29 PM "We are not inviting the family of every merchant on the fence into our place." Stohp says in exasperation to Stock. "We're already full and asking everyone and their brother to uproot their entire lives to live in a glorified warehouse, even if a refurbished one, is going to make us no friends. There's way to many people involved in this for that to be at all realistic."
"Look if anyone asks you just say we came looking for the missing book, you told us you sold it, end of story. Heck even mention that you might enter business with Sid, that gives us an excuse for you to pass us messages. Basically be completely honest and just forget we mentioned the symbols to you at all. Until we're ready to move our best bet to keep everyone safe is to just pretend like nothing happened."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Thursday May 16th, 2019 8:07:05 PM
Bartomus followed along and nodded in agreement to the offer of sheltering the family in the Shield's headquarters. "Wonder if we could pay a kid or two to tell us if anyone or anything comes near the warehouse while we are gone? Be good to have some info if the folks in red come back here."
When Stoph expressed the error in this thought, "So, you would be like a double agent in effect. Hey that might work, if you were go give them a list of folks we set up for watching and guarding. That could work really really well right?"
He turned to Stohp with hopes of getting some affirmation. "So we are off to see Lord Perimon, right?"
DM Robert - "Until we're ready to move our best bet to keep everyone safe is to just pretend like nothing happened." Thursday May 16th, 2019 9:31:16 PM
Micah attempts to sic Pepper Plate on the Protection racket.
Stock asks Torbin to move into the Shields headquarters.
Dorbin works on the books.
Zander stays quiet, obviously concerned but not wanting to muddy the waters.
Sid prompts Torbin to pack up and get down to HQ.
Stohp thinks moving the Cook's to HQ would be a bad idea. And comes up with an alternative approach. Hero point for Stohp thinking outside the box, but still working with details that have occured.
Bartomus thinks that Stoph's idea bears merit.
Dirk?
____
Pepper eyes Zander and splinks her eyelashes at him. When Micah joins the group she smiles wistfully at him and sighs dreamily. "Such fine strong men, defenders of the Float, excelary symbols of Domi." Sense Motive 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { Oh boy is she trying to butter you up.}
She looks at you suddenly a gleam of determination in her eyes. "Look I know stuff is going on here, I'm an investigative reporter. You don't think I don't know some nogoodniks are putting the squeeze on merchants. I was wondering if you've seen this symbol and might know what it means."[b] She flips her notebook out and shows a drawing of a circle with a diamond shape in the center. [b]"I figure it has more significance than just marking the doors that 'curly' and the gang go to every few days. Oh I don't know if that's his real name, but how many half-orcs are there walking around the Float?" Knowledge local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Well there are a few, some of them work on the docks, that alone is not enough to be able to pick anyone up.}
Torbin nods. "Yes I think that staying here might be a good idea. I can even start advertising trash pickup services."
The party attempts to sidestep Pepper, but she stays with you as you walk. (She is waiting to see what you say but also letting you move onto your next desitnation).
After some time you come to the temple of Lord Paragon Belkior and stand before him in a small anti-chamber. Everyone feels a sense of healing and relaxing of tensions. He motions for you to sit while saying, "What can I do for you gentlemen, and lady?"
Stock (subbed by John H) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Thursday May 16th, 2019 9:57:59 PM
Stock looks is a bit uncomfortable going to see the paragon, but relaxes once in his presence. For once, he decides to let others start the conversation.
Micah sighs heavily in release as tensions are relieved. This being Zanderallen's suggestion, he pauses to allow the paladin to take the lead, ready to contribute to their cause.
======= Auto succeed on aid another check with diplomacy. Add +2
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+7=11 ; Thursday May 16th, 2019 10:25:06 PM
Bartomus walked along as Pepper is talking to the group. When she mentioned the gang leader being a half orc"A few work down on the docks, is this one from there? Any other way to describe this Curly? How often do you see him and his scuttling about?"
He continued walking and when they came to the Paragon's temple, he took a position against a wall near the door letting the others step forward and do the talking.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Friday May 17th, 2019 11:14:32 AM
Dorbin discovers a little more and runs to another room to check another book... :)
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+14=30 ; d4=3 ; d20+1=12 ; d20+17=26 ; d20+14=29 ; Saturday May 18th, 2019 1:35:42 AM
Zanderallen shakes his head at the oh so apparent attempts of Pepper to get information out of them, "Sweet talk isn't going to get you anywhere Miss Plates. You want to stir up some trouble go ask around about a Lord Crimson. Maybe you can figure it out before we do." He then waves her off and ignores any further comments or questions she makes.
Once sequestered in the chamber with Belkior Zander bows politely and takes the offered seat, his face still a little tense even with the calming presence, "Lord Belkior, it's time we talked. I apologize if this brings back any unpleasant memories but we need information to be able to protect the Float. About 15 years ago there was a crime lord using the name Lord Diamond that tried to seize power. Story goes the Crimson Shields of Hope, of whom we know you were a member, had a run in with him, and matching time lines that about when the Crimson Shields broke up. What happened with Lord Diamond and do you have any idea who Lord Crimson might be? Lord Crimson is making a play for power on the Merchant level and is marking the doors of his protection racket with a diamond. I think something happened 15 years ago and it's been covered up. There was a book titled Ust Delmah that the council banned publication of that we've been told contains Lord Crimsons secret. You know anything about that?" As Zanderallen speaks he leans forward in his chair, as he finishes the calming aura takes effect and he sits back, carefully eyeing the Paragon Lord for any reaction. --------------------------------------------- Sense Motive(Pepper): 30 Know(local): 12 Diplomacy(Belkior) 28 (26+2 Micah) Sense Motive(Belkior): 29
DM Robert - Who was Lord Diamond Saturday May 18th, 2019 8:38:30 AM
Stock hangs back and listens.
Micah lets Zander lead.
Bartomus ask's Pepper about Curly.
Dorbin has finished his research...and wonders where the others could be.
Zanderallen gives Pepper the 'Big Brush Off'. He lays it out for Belkior.
Dirk? is apparently trying out how to be stealthy.
Sid? is silent.
(I'd hate to see the Sherrif's report on the Board Activity). --------------------------
Pepper Plate tells Bartomus what she know's about Curly, large, muscled up, half-orc, with no hair, and two small tusk/teeth showing. It is pretty vague, but then how many bald half-orcs are there? At Zanderallen's brush off she tilts her nose up. "Well okay Mr. High and Mighty. I think I've got there routine established, I'll just follow them tomorrow." She walks off in a huff. Perception 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {That's right she said she has their shop visit routine figured out and she's going to be following them tomorrow.}
Belkior sit's back in his chair. "Well now, that's a pretty tall order isn't it. You see it was about 12 years ago I guess. The world has just gone topsy turvy, like it just recently did again when the Sargrassy Plain came back from...well where-ever it went. The Float was transported to its current location. We were cut off, except for the Gates. Time's were, strenuous. 'Lord Diamond' well he was actually the then Lord Peerimon. You have to remember the times. Lord Peerimon advocated quite forcefully that the surrounding forest was the Float's territory and needed to be harvested as a natural resource. The Druids in the circle (he's referring to the Float's own Druids) argued against him. He could not get the full support of the Float Council so footed the expenses himself and outfitted parties to clear the shorelines, and establish a village to start farming. The forest was less than pleased. Peerimon's efforts were a complete flop. To that end he lost a great deal of money. We later found that he blamed the Council for his financial set-backs and was then trying to stir up a party to call for new elections. Unfortunately the Undercrats are appointed not elected, and the positions of Mayor is exchanged yearly with the Underlord and the Overlord, for life, barring retirement, death, or commitment of a crime."
He pauses and takes a sip of juice brought in by and cleric, who also offered each of a you a cup.
"Lord Peerimon tried to recruit the efforts of the Diamond Lords Club to form a political party. It didn't work. Then he tried to make some opportunties through assassination. It didn't work either. By now we were on to him and he was forced to leave the city. But we didnt' realize that he'd allied with some renegade Drow and in fact had now formed his own Dark Druid Circle. They planned, well I'm not sure what they planned. However, we know they interrupted the "Entwining" ceremony of the Elven community that called for the sacrifice of elves in order to harness their spirit to help moderate the temperament of the forest. One of our member, Florin merged/sacrificed himself instead to join his spirit with the forest. After that the Crimson Shields may have sacrificed their own sense of Justice for a commitment to Vengeance."
He looks up at you. "Suffice it to say that we took care of Lord Peerimon. However, we may not have acted within the exact bounds of the law. We reported to the city council. While a great threat had been averted, because if Peerimon would have been successful the Drow would have had free reign through the forest and been able to attack the Float, it was decided that maybe not everything should be revealed. After all the young Lord Peerimon was innocent, and the council didn't want it made known that one of the City Lord's was capable of turning on the city."
He finishes his juice. "The Crimson Shields disbanded after that. As to who this new Lord Crimson is I have no idea. I've been keeping an eye on the council to make sure no one is acting up again. I have not seen anything, but I'd say that more than one lord is always playing the politics game for some increase in personal wealth or power. No one seems to be doing more than the other, and so far they are all being normal in their ways."Think of normal politicians today doing what they do.
He finishes and waits to see if there are any follow up questions.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Saturday May 18th, 2019 5:56:29 PM
Sid follows Stohp and he thoroughly has lost the thread of what's going on.
==========================
((Sorry, sudden OT and I thought I had posted, but I was remembering Thursday.))
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+12=14 ; Saturday May 18th, 2019 7:13:00 PM
As he listened to the Paragon talk, he started to frown a bit. "So, the old Lord Crimson was all about controlling the wood trade. Then he and his own shields gets put in their place. His son, what a child right at the time, is without a dad and everything is hushed up." Bartomus swung his head in a bit of disbelief and the dangling carved bone acorn tapped his horn.
"Also, a new Lord Perimon is in possession of the goods that we have to get and return." He continued talking aloud. "Anyone else think that maybe the son has grown up, discovered what daddy was doing, and thought - hey, wonder if we could build on a family tradition?"
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 d20+4=14 ; Sunday May 19th, 2019 10:29:04 AM
Micah looks at Bartomus gravely, then adds with a shudder, "The same thought occurred to me"
Then he turns to Belkior and asks, [b]"What are your thoughts on the current Lord Perrimon being Crimson? Given his position, he certainly has the means and opportunity, and vengeance of his father would certainly be a strong motive."[b] [i]Now I sound like Lukas,[i] he thinks to himself.
============= Perception Pepper 14 fail
Stock (subbed by John H) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Sunday May 19th, 2019 10:33:52 AM
Stock notices Sid's confusion and gives the elf an encouraging, but staggering slap on the back. "That's okay elf. The talkers will take care of it for us."
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=21 ; d20+2=16 ; Monday May 20th, 2019 11:30:39 AM
Dorbin dashes out of the library with his new information and runs down the levels of the float. Suddenly he stops and realizes he has no idea where the rest of the group are. He looks around where he last saw them to see if he has any thoughts or ideas where they might have gone...
OOC: Perception: 21 Wisdom?: 16
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=25 ; Monday May 20th, 2019 6:25:19 PM "I also remember from Sir Stephan's journal that he said he owed a lot of money to Lord Perimon, and Torbin mentioned owing a lot of money to Lord Perimon as well. Torbin's money was also connected to the wood industry. How would Sir Stephan been connected to Lord Perimon I wonder?" ------------------------ Perception 25
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Monday May 20th, 2019 7:16:38 PM Someone's definitely doing something. We have evidence to connect this lord Crimson to the weird plant based zombie thing in the trash and a protection racket. We just need to connect the name to an actual person, something we haven't been able to do so far."
DM Robert - "Someone's definitely doing something." Monday May 20th, 2019 8:09:46 PM
Sid tries to keep up.
Bartomus tries to get things straight in his head but comes up with thoughts of Lord Peerimon the younger following in Lord Peerimon the elders footsteps.
Micah asks Belkior about Lord Perrimon being Crimson.
Stock is content to let the talkers talk.
Dorbin dashes down to the merchant level.
Zanderallen tries to figure out all the money angles.
Stohp points out that they can connect Lord Crimson to crimes on the Trash Level, and the Protection racket on the merchant level. They just need to know who Crimson is.
Dirk???
________________
Dorbin gets to the bottom of the stairs and looks around, realizing he's not quite sure how to proceed. He spots Pepper Plate near the bottom of the stairs consulting a notebook, and remembers the last time he saw the nosy reporter was just outside Torbin Cook's place of business...oh and that he knocked her over.
- - - Belkior considers his words as he address Micah. "Well I've no evidence that he's done any wrong doing. That's not to say he couldn't be up to something. There are ways in and out of the levels. Each level has a corresponding sewer level that keeps feeding downward to the Trash level. I'm pretty sure there's probably more than one nefarious route between the levels that avoids the stairs. Of course I'm not sure how refined one might look if they resorted to such passages."
He laughs and turns to Zanderallen. I can tell you that Lord Peerimon frequents Warrd's House of Luck. He has more than the usual amount of luck there. Sir Stephan Imbry was also a 'guest' if I remember right, he was not as lucky. As to buying interests in other business, as I said his father sort of ran them close to bankruptcy. The current Lord Peerimon, Damon, is trying to rebuild the family fortune and seems to be doing a good job of it."OOC would it be easier to refer to the Current Lord Peerimon as just Damon to keep things straight?
Belkior rubs his chin and pauses to think. He turns to Stohp and says, "I'm not sure I like the idea of some criminal using the name Lord Crimson, sort of smacks of a stab at the former Crimson Shields. As to the best way to find a criminal would be to follow the henchmen back to a hideout, or catch the criminal red-handed. Though I'm not sure what sort of trap you could use to lure out this Crimson fellow."
After giving the others a chance to follow up with any further questions, Micah bows in parting, "Lord Belkior, than you for your time and your assistance. You have given us much to consider."
Once outside, he turns to Stock, "Belkior seems to favor your suggestion with the slight modification that we follow the henchman rather than, um, disable them. Then to the others he adds, "But first maybe it is time to approach Lord Peerimon." With a nod to Stohp, he explains, "It is consistent with our objective to recover the lost goods and, should he be guilty, perhaps he might slip and reveal something."
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Tuesday May 21st, 2019 8:57:50 AM "Got it, Micah. Wait...why did you tell me that in particular?" He keeps a straight face for only a moment before letting out a wheezing laugh. "Actually if we approach Peerimon, maybe that will force some hands to act against us. Otherwise we need a plan to track down some of the henchmen."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Tuesday May 21st, 2019 10:11:57 AM
Bartomus bowed at the Paragon out of respect and followed the others.
"I am on Stock's side here. I think we approach Peerimon about the numerous things that we know came his way. We might then get a response not only from Peerimon, but if Stock is right, maybe some information about who these Crimson folks are."
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Tuesday May 21st, 2019 10:16:47 AM
Sid, catching up on events says, "Wait, I don't mind acting as bait to lurch out our Lord Crimson, but are we ready for retaliation? Do we need to have Rodrigo and some of his boys reinforce anyplace? I know I'm not the only one with loved one on the Float right? And besides a frontal attack I like the idea of hunting down the henchmen and seeing where we end up. I know if we confront Peerimon and he is Crimson, then it would kick things off." Sid pauses a moment, "You know, I always thought 'Lord Crimson' would be like a minor functionary, or some second or third son that wasn't going to inherit. Someone that felt like they were being robbed of their 'True Place' of importance. I'd find it funny if it was an actual Lord of the city."
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Tuesday May 21st, 2019 7:06:36 PM
Dorbin heads over to Pepper and stumbles through words, "Sorry... C...c...crashed... running... all you okay?"
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Tuesday May 21st, 2019 7:17:48 PM "Yeah, but if he's personally visiting his minions then he's an idiot. We've yet to be able to work up the chain to whoever he is without someone along the way fighting us to the death."
DM Robert - Dirk Departs Tuesday May 21st, 2019 8:26:40 PM OOC sitting in the basement with the dogs as the storm goes over and the tornado signs go off.
Micah proposes they visit Lord Peerimon and then perhaps try to follow the henchmen carrying on the Protection Racket.
Stock thinks if Peerimon is guilt his conscious will betray him when the party goes to see him. Otherwise there is of course the henchmen.
Bartomus is all about visiting Peerimon.
Sid worries about possible retaliation.
Dorbin tries to apologize to Pepper.
Stohp doubts Peerimon will actually visit his minions.
-------------------
With Stohp's comment the party pauses to consider their past. Knowledge local 10 or Knowledge History or Intelligence 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { You know that may not be true Shredds at least indicated that he had direct contact with Crimson as his boss. That being said though, nothing means that Crimson didn't see his henchmen while in his super villain outfit, i.e. the crimson cloak and face mask.}
The party stands milling about but starts to head to Lord Peerimon's house. They come to it and see a two story mansion, with a third story probably hidden by the high, deeply sloped roof. In fact you see what may be an iron wrought fend along the top of the roof, there are two pillars in front supporting a large overhanging balcony and more pillars above the balcony forming several archways on the second floor. (Okay, think Tara from Gone with the Wind.)
There is nothing in the way of a yard, but after all this is the Float, space is a premium.
It is now about 4 pm.
- - - Pepper gives a glare at Dorbin. "Hurmph." She consults her notebook. Behind her Dorbin spots Dirk peering over her shoulder silently reading her notebook. She flips her notebook shut and gives Dorbin the eye again. "You really need to work on your manners. If you weren't heroes rushing about to save someone people might take offense. Your companions are not much better right now. Here I have information on people being forced to give money to be protected from violence from the very people they are paying and your lot is more concerned with heading upstairs to see the high priest of Alemi on the gold level."
She turns her back to you and struts off. Knowledge Local 10 or History 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {You do recall that the party was talking about visiting Belkior but also visiting Lord Peerimon because of the stolen goods.} Perception 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Pepper is deliberately sashaying away to try and draw your attention.}
Dirk walks over to Dorbin. "Hey Dorbin, I've received a message from the bard's college in Plateau City. They are offering me a one semester grant to study. So I'm going to have to head out for awhile." He takes a piece of paper out and writes on it briefly. "I saw some of Pepper's notebook. She apparently has been trying to track the enforcers. There is a note about the guard doing the same thing and failing. After every pick up the guys walk down the road a bit turn the corner and then dissappear. Might be something to have Micah ask his brother about. Anyway there are two pickup locations and times." The note he hands Dorbin says 'O'Rullies Pharmacy 11am' and 'Cinnamon's Hot Crossed 2pm'.
Dirk then turns and tries to hide a tear in his eye. Then marches off toward the gate.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Tuesday May 21st, 2019 9:33:34 PM
Zanderallen likes the plan of confronting Lord Peerimon the younger and goes along with the party to his house.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+7=11 ; d20+12=17 ; Tuesday May 21st, 2019 10:14:56 PM
Bartomus looked at the house and its pillars. [b]"So, do we just walk up to the door and knock? I guess that makes more sense than yelling at the house, throw a rock at the door?"
He looked at Zander and Micah for an answer as he shrugged in their general direction.
Knowledege local -11; Perception 17---but the latter seems to be for Dirk or Dorbin
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+3=8 ; Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 9:33:20 AM "Wait, Bart, you want me to throw a rock?" Stock takes a moment to look for something suitable..and then realizes that it probably isn't the best course after all. "OK, Micah, Z, lead the way. You guys do the talking. I'll be watching."
======= Knowledge Local 8
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 d20+1=12 ; d20+5=8 ; d20+4=8 ; Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 1:04:07 PM "What? Wait, Dirk!" exclaims Micah when he realizes the bard is leaving. He jogs after him, not very quickly in his armor, and embraces him once he catches up.
"Take care of yourself. Keep and touch and I look forward to seeing you back," he adds somberly as he watches him depart.
After some time, he focuses on the information in the note. "Well, at least we know where to start when we are ready for that step.
He pauses a moment to consider their approach to Lord Peerimon, then shares his thoughts, "Although Peerimon seems to have means, motive, and opportunity, we have no evidence. He is also a very legitimately powerful person, so we must tread carefully. I propose we proceed as if we do not suspect a thing and ask for the stolen goods, just as we have had with the others. If he is innocent, then we have not maligned an innocent man. If he is guilty, then he might reveal something, but he might think we are not on his trail."
====== Knowledge Local 12 vs 10 success Knowledge History vs 10 Fail Perception 8 vs 10 fail
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+1=10 ; Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 4:23:11 PM
Zanderallen wishes Dirk the best of luck on this next step of his journey and sends him off with an embrace.
"I agree Micah, until we have evidence Lord Peerimon is an unfortunate victim of poor business dealings regarding stolen property." With that he marches up to the door and knocks loudly, if someone answers he states, "Silver Shields adventuring party. We need to talk to Lord Peerimon on business. Shouldn't take but 10 minutes of his time." --------------- Know(local): 10
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+12=29 ; d20+8=15 ; Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 6:47:13 PM
Dorbin takes the note from Dirk and watches him go. He calls out, "Oh, I bet that will be interesting, good luck in the college!"
He thinks for a moment and figures the group might be headed off to see Lord P. As he gets ready to head after them, he spots Pepper walking away and she clearly has his attention. He feels a strong blush rush to his face and looks around to see if anyone else can see. He tries to call after her, quite flummoxed, "I... uh... the protection violence..." He continues to stammer and with a quick glance in the direction of Lord P's, he follows after her...
OOC: Knowledge, history: 29 Perception: 15
DM Robert - "We need to talk to Lord Peerimon on business." Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 8:07:07 PM
Bartomus wonders at the best approach.
Stock suggests Micah or Zanderallen take the lead.
Micah advises wariness but straightforwardness in approaching Lord Peerimon.
Zanderallen goes up and knocks on the door.
Dorbin rejoins the party. Pepper was on the Merchant level, she is not on the Gold Level.
Sid....?
----
The party is rejoined and Zanderallen goes to knock on the door. However, he does see a nice brass door knocker and decides to use that as he announces the group. After a very short wait the red wood door swings open. "Yeesss." The butler draws out his query as if one was addressing persons that dare knock on the front door and not the service entrance.
Zander proclaims "Silver Shields adventuring party. We need to talk to Lord Peerimon on business. Shouldn't take but 10 minutes of his time."
"Hmm. Very well if you will step this way I will see if Lord Peerimon can make time to see you." The butler opens the door and you see a grand entrance with plush red carpeting and a T branching grand staircase in the back of the entrance hall. He takes you to your right and opens a door into a salon style sitting room. There are numerous chairs, some small end tables, and a painting on the wall opposite the window. "Please wait here." The butler leaves and you are left alone in the room.
Appraise 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {The furniture is well made and luxurious. The seat cushions are soft and filled with some substance that gives but also provides support.}
The painting is immense 5 foot high by 8 feet across. It depicts the Float being attacked by vines from the sea and pulled 30% off center. You can clearly see some hero types trying to fight the vines and the dark figure in the clouds in the background. Knowledge History 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { The picture represents valiant heroes who fought the massive lake-vines raised by the Fey King to swamp the Float during the events of the Dark Fae Rising. (especially showing the Float cantilevered 30 degrees off true as the vines try to tip over the city)}
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 9:10:42 PM
Stohp waits patiently, looking at the furniture and painting. Which one was it they were after again here...?
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+3=14 ; Thursday May 23rd, 2019 12:40:17 AM "Well, that was a lot easier than I guess I realized," Bartomus said as they waited for the Lord of the Manor to meet with them. He looked about and nodded in approval of the decore. He turned himself to where he stood looking at the wall sized painting. The fact that it showed an attack on the Float and the Float shifting off of center was both intriguing and frightening."Did this uh, actually, happen?"
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Thursday May 23rd, 2019 9:20:01 AM
Stock finds his way to one of the comfotable chairs and then looks up at the painting. "No idea. Looks exciting though."
He then looks down and notices some flaking blood and mud from one of their trips caking the side of his armor. He takes a rough finger nail and scrapes it onto the floor.
"So I'll just sit here. If you guys are playing Good City Guard and feel like you want me to play Bad City Guard, just mention my name or something."
He then goes back to picking clean his armor and dropping the remnants where he sits.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Thursday May 23rd, 2019 10:20:04 AM
As Dorbin joins with the group, he hurriedly and quietly whispers all he has found in the library about the history of the lord diamond.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Thursday May 23rd, 2019 6:32:16 PM "According to the records, Lord Peerimon purchased a painting "The Drow", and a book, "The Oasis of the White Palm"." Zanderallen looks around at the room.
Micah listens carefully as Dorbin shares his new found knowledge, nodding in remembrance as he mentions Shredds and Aurelius.
==================== FYI: Dorbin's information is contained in the spoiler text from the May 15 DM post
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+8=24 ; Thursday May 23rd, 2019 7:51:25 PM
Sid studies the scene of the Float and nods as he listens to Dorbin.
((Sorry! My week was disrupted. I almost forgot!))
DM Robert - "Well, that was a lot easier than I guess I realized," Thursday May 23rd, 2019 8:07:56 PM OOC Well I see some d20 rolls but only one person bothered to say what they are for.
Stohp asks what they are specifically looking for here.
Bartomus wonders if the painting on the wall is fiction or nonfiction.
Stock likes the painting and then sits down to and becomes uncouth. Hero point to Stock for making the DM laugh.
Dorbin tells what he learned in the Sage's Guild. TO WIT: Many many years ago there was an an adventuring group called The Diamond Circle or The Diamond Blades, they battled some vampires on the merchant level. Then they left the city. There is some reference to a symbol of a diamond, alluding to the Lords of Diamonds group. Apparently 10 years ago there was several assassinations of city leaders and the attempted assassination of the Overlord. At each assassination there was a calling card of a circle with a diamond etched on it on one side and a mock of a king of diamonds playing card but titled Lord Diamond. The culprits were caught by the Crimson Shields of Hope. There is no reference to who the culprits were or why the city council members were assassinated.
The Big Float does not permit guilds, believing that such things take away from the freedoms of the citizens. Therefore, such guilds that exist are thinly disguised as clubs or individual businesses. The most prominent of these are the three distinct groups of thief organizations. These are the Rogues’ Fellowship, the Black Blades, and the Lord’s of Diamonds.
From your own past, Shredds and Father Arellius used a red metal medallion etched with a symbol of a diamond on each side.
Zanderallen answers Stohp. "According to the records, Lord Peerimon purchased a painting "The Drow", and a book, "The Oasis of the White Palm"." These were bought from the merchant/fence Jennings “Spider” Sturgeus from his consignment shop Sturgeus Selling: ALSO, you have Imbry's journal which mentions paying off gambling debts to Peerimon, specifically with the books Slave Pits of the Undercity, by David Cook; -Secrets of the Slavers Stockade, by Harold Johnson; -Assault on the Aerie of the Slave Lords, by Allen Hammack; -In the Dungeons of the Slave Lords, by Lawrence Schick. BUT, according to Sturgeus he sold those 4 books to Unger Platt in Plateau City.
Micah listens carefully as Dorbin shares his new found knowledge, nodding in remembrance as he mentions Shredds and Aurelius.
Sid recognizes the scene depicted in the painting as a true event and tells everyone that really happened.
====================
Lord Peerimon enters the room from a door opposite the one you came through, and nods to you. He is dressed smartly in a black dinner jacket, white shirt, and black pants. He has a black bow tie on. "Gentelmen and lady, to what do I owe the pleasure of your company?" He moves over to the wall near him (that would be an interior wall, but not the back wall where the painting is hanging) and presses something. The wall slides back revealing a well appointed liquor cabinet. "Would you care for something...brandy, port, perhaps a nice sherry?"
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Friday May 24th, 2019 9:16:24 AM
Stock grumbles something about not drinking on the job and then goes silent. He begins tapping his foot and staring at Micah, Zanderallen and Stohp, imploring them to speak up so he isn't the one to break the ice.
He then folds his arms and tries to look tough.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Friday May 24th, 2019 10:47:53 AM
Bartomus turned from the painting to see the Lord of the Manor. He seemed to be a man of distinction what with his crisp attair and setting of the room. Bartomus waived off any drink with a "No thank you, sir."
He glanced back at the painting and then back at the Shields. Then he looked at the Lord and then at Zander.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+17=30 ; d20+14=27 ; Friday May 24th, 2019 1:06:01 PM
Zanderallen bows politely and declines the offer putting on his best charm and tact, "Lord Peerimon, your offer is most generous but sadly we are here on business. And somewhat unfortunate business. A friend of ours, Miss Daneel of Rosebud publishing, found that many books and paintings were stolen by her late fiance's partner and sold off. We have been tracking them down and I'm sure by no fault or knowledge two possibly three of these items we believe came to your possession. A painting called The Drow and a book titled The Oasis of the White Palm and then possibly a book titled Ust Delmah. I truly hate to be the bearer of such bad news but we have come to return them to their lawful owner. Zander's sadness at reclaiming the items is not fake, as he doesn't like taking things they may have purchased in good faith. But that doesn't stop him from watching Peerimon very closely, especially when he mentions Ust Delmah. ----------------------------- Diplomacy 30 Sense Motive 27
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Friday May 24th, 2019 1:08:53 PM
Zach, please check your email and contact me please. ;) DMs may delete this once Zach says he has seen it.
Micah suppresses a smile as the silver tongue goes into action. He too is watching Lord Peerimon carefully for any reaction to Zanderallen's words.
Before the Lord can reply he adds, similarly gravely, "Unfortunately, I must add to Zanderallen's list. We have also been told that you may also possess the works, Slave Pits of the Undercity, Secrets of the Slavers Stockade, Assault on the Aerie of the Slave Lords, and In the Dungeons of the Slave Lords as well. He bows as he finishes, acknowledging the unpleasantness of his information.
============ Diplomacy: >10 to aid Zanderallen: Make that a +32 Sense Motive: 25
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20=20 ; Friday May 24th, 2019 6:44:09 PM
Dorbin smiles and nods as Zander starts speaking and compliments Lord P on his dinner jacket.
OOC: Diplomacy to aid another: natural 20.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+12=15 ; Saturday May 25th, 2019 8:40:15 AM
Sid walks close to the door and listens to his friends. Realizing recently that he really isn't good at talking, he keeps an eye open to make sure that he can't run and he can block the door if others try to come in.
DM Robert - Lord P (I wonder if the kids call him that?) Saturday May 25th, 2019 9:59:49 AM
Stock grumbles tries to look tough.
Bartomus declines to drink
Zanderallen ask about a painting called The Drow and a book titled The Oasis of the White Palm and then possibly a book titled Ust Delmah.
Micah adds a query about, the works, Slave Pits of the Undercity, Secrets of the Slavers Stockade, Assault on the Aerie of the Slave Lords, and In the Dungeons of the Slave Lords.
Dorbin smiles and tries to help out.
Sid walks around to try and block the far door.
=============
Peerimon arches an eyebrow and purses his lips. "Hmm, well I do have a painting featuring some Drow on it that I bought at a shop on merchant level. I believe I acquired The Oasis of the White Palm there as well. I can't remember the name of the shop, but I believe it was a bit off the beaten path."
He pauses as he eyes Sid moving around. "Would you care for something?" He indicates the liquor cabinet and then goes over and pours himself a brandy. He turns back to Zanderallen, "I don't seem to recall a book called Erst Dalmah. What language is that in?"
He takes a small drink of Brandy. "Well actually I did once have the Slave Lord series, that is the books. Slave Pits of the Undercity, Secrets of the Slavers Stockade, Assault on the Aerie of the Slave Lords, and In the Dungeons of the Slave Lords. The books were given to me by Stephen Imbry to pay off a debt he owed. I guess I should have been more suspicious of where he got them. Sadly my house was burglarized a few months back and the thieves took off with them and some other articles."
Knowledge Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You could always check his story with the local 'police'.}
He takes another sip of his drink and then snaps his fingers. "Say do you think any of my other stolen items might be at that place I bought those items you claimed were stolen?"
Diplomacy 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { The question is what were the other 'articles' of his that were stolen."}
Knowledge Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { You did find Sturgess's books on what stolen goods were sold to where. Maybe if you ask the guard nicely they will let you look at them again.}
He goes to a corner wall and pulls a small rope that was hanging from the ceiling. The butler enters the door that Peerimon came from to find Sid partially blocking the door. The butler gives Sid the eye of indignation and then addresses Lord Peerimon. "You rang sir?"
"Yes Smidely, please fetch the book, The Oasis of the White Palm from the library and that painting of the Drow from the game room." The butler nods and departs.
He turns back to you. "Was there anything else?"
He seems pleased by most of your manners (diplomacy). You can't get a feel for him one way or the other, (sense motive) which is slightly unusual in your experiences. Before you've been able to get a good sense whether someone was being honest with you or trying to dissemble. Perhaps it's a sign of being a really good poker player.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+15=35 ; d20+15=29 ; d20+8=23 ; d20+10=30 ; Sunday May 26th, 2019 8:33:15 AM "I believe my companion Micah gave you the full list." Stohp says, understanding what he's asking (Diplomacy 23). She's aware they can go to the guards for more information if needed (know local 35 & 29) and she eyes the man, trying to get a read on him (sense motive 30 - cause I'm contrary :P)
It concerns Micah that Lord Peerimon claims that the Slave Pit books were stolen, contradicting the information they received from Sturgeous who claims they were sold to Unger Platt in Plateau City. What troubles him further, however, is that he is totally unable to get a read on this man.
Hiding his concerns, he responds with a bow, "Lord Peerimon, your graciousness in returning the items you still have is commendable. Perhaps we could help you recover your property that was taken along with the books. What can you tell us about the burglary and the other items that were stolen?"
=================== Diplomacy 25 vs DC 20: Success
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+7=21 ; d20-1=9 ; d20+7=11 ; Sunday May 26th, 2019 9:32:26 PM
Bartomus shrugged as the man talked and nodded in agreement with Stohp. But, when he mentioned going back to where they had already come from, he gave the man an odd, puzzled look. Weren't we already there?"
His question was more of a talking aloud without any real tone to it and he shrugged and listened. Micah and Stohp talk to the guy. He was a bit surprised when he called his butler asking him to bring the book and painting. He shrugged and smiled.
KnL 21; D 9; KnL 11
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+3=9 ; d20+1=7 ; d20+3=16 ; Monday May 27th, 2019 8:13:43 AM "Burglarized? That's a shame. Have you heard of a lot of that kind of activity lately? I tell you things aren't quite as safe around here as they used to be. I mean just today we were accosted by some thugs. Ha! Smashed 'em."
======== Knowledge Local 9 Diplomacy 7 Knowledge Local 16
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20=12 ; Monday May 27th, 2019 4:45:24 PM
Dorbin listens closely and when Stock starts barging around, he tries to step in front of him and make the party look more respectable.
OOC: Aid another, diplomacy: 12
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+17=33 ; Monday May 27th, 2019 7:28:39 PM
Taking every in stride Zanderallen bows again, "Your return of the items is most gracious, I believe Erst Delmah to be in common though I really couldn't say for sure, it was just listed with some of the other items. The whole series stolen right out of your manor. How terrible! I do believe I might have seen one of those titles in Sturgeus' ledger. You might wish to check with the guards of the Gold level, they are following up on some of the other leads. Did any other items go missing? I'm trying to think back to his shop." ------------------------------ Diplomacy 33
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+1=15 ; Monday May 27th, 2019 7:43:14 PM
Sid, examining the general house layout, bows slightly to the lord. "I greatly appreciate it, but we're not quite at the end of our day yet and I am not sure how many more stops we'll have to make today."
Diplomacy(For politeness): 15 ((Hey, at least I'm trying ^_^))
DM Robert - "I tell you things aren't quite as safe around here as they used to be." Monday May 27th, 2019 8:29:58 PM
Stohp continues to study Lord Peerimon.
Micah tries to find out what was stolen.
Bartomus is slightly puzzled but thinks all is going well.
Stock laments the crime in the city and brags about smashing some thugs.
Dorbin downplays Stock's boasting.
Zanderallen also probes about what was stolen. Zanderallen deliberately copies the way that Peerimon pronounced the one book... Perception 20 or Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {The actual title is Ust Delmah, Zanderallen pronounced it that way at first, Lord Peerimon responded with Erst Dalmah, which was meant as a subtle mispronouncing. Did he do this on purpose? He seems quite sophisticated and intelligent, how hard is to mimic back a book title?}
Sid declines to drink. ==============
Lord Peerimon purses his lips. "Well there were some golden candelabras, a silvered tri-bladed dagger with some unusual markings on the hilt. I was studying that trying to make out where it was from. Archeology is something of a hobby for me. There was a medium sized crystal ball, well not crystal it was sort of a turquoise or jade color, depends on which way you held it in the light. The ball had a golden worked casing around it allowing it to be held without actually touching the crystal. Oh and course several old gold coins. I'm a bit of a collector of ancient history and what better way than old coins.
Stohp has noticed that Lord Peerimon appears to have a habit of pursing his lips and pausing before launching into explanations of certain things.
The dagger somehow seems interesting... Knowledge Arcane 20 or Knowledge History 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Basically imagine a Phurba dagger, if you're curious look it up on Google. These are rare and often magical daggers, mostly used by practicers of arcane magic.} Knowledge Local 15 or Linguistics 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You don't recall any description of mention of that in Sturges's books.}
And that crystal ball seems interesting... Knowledge Arcane 25 or Knowledge History 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { Begora, that sounds like an orb of Draconkind. Of course there's no way to be absolutely sure.} Knowledge Local 15 or Linguistics 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You don't recall any description of mention of that in Sturges's books.}
The butler returns to the room rather awkwardly. He hands the book to Peerimon who then turns and hands it to you while motioning to the butler to hand over the painting. The painting is about 3 foot by 3 foot. Examining them you can be assured that these are the genuine articles you're looking for.
Lord Peerimon smiles at you and bows. "Well if you find any of my stolen items please let me know, or you can return them in person." Sense Motive 35 Highlight to display spoiler: {That smile holds no humor.}
The butler crosses the room to the other door and holds it open for you....
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+7=20 ; d20+7=23 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 12:27:52 AM "Don't recall any dagger or crystal ball being missing," Bartomus shrugged as the man kept talking. When the butler returned with the book and painting, he stepped over and took the painting from the man. It was less awkward, but still slightly awkward, for the taur to hold it.
KnL 20; Knl 23
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+17=24 ; d20+17=22 ; d20+17=30 ; d20+17=30 ; d20+2=22 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 1:40:47 PM
Dorbin nods thoughtfully and says, "Indeed. That sounds like a phurba dagger and perhaps an incredible find, and orb of dragons. That would indeed be something to have stolen."
OOC: Knowledge, Arcane, DC 20: 24 Success to know dagger Knowledge, Local, DC 15: 22 Success to know about dagger mention Knowledge, Arcane, DC 25: 30 Success to know crystal ball Knowledge, Local, DC 15: 30 Success to know about crystal ball Sense Motive, DC 35: 22 :)
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+14=17 ; d20+5=25 ; d20+14=32 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 4:51:23 PM
Zanderallen notes the mispronouncing of the book, he copied Peerimon to lead him in believing they were clueless as to it's nature. He ponders if Peerimon is trying to hide it so as not to lead people to finding our what it contains. "We shall be sure to keep an eye open for them Lord Peerimon. If we find them we will return them in person, we've already had one group of thieves attack us for a different painting we were returning. We have taken far too much of your time, thank you again for returning these items. Their return might not bring back Lord Arlen, but it will allow his fiance to keep his publishing house open. Good day."
Zander waits for Peerimon to dismiss them and then leads the Shields out with the recovered items. --------------------------------- Sense Motive 17/Perception 25 succeeds vs. DC 20
Sense Motive 32 fails versus 35.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+13=14 ; d20+13=24 ; d20+10=16 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 6:24:25 PM
Stohp also notes that the artifacts weren't listed (linguistics 14, fail, 24, success). She eyes the lord, wondering if he's reported stolen things he didn't have so as to get the party to secure them for him (sense motive 16).
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+3=4 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 6:27:23 PM "Likewise to what Z was saying, please feel free to contact us again in the future if you run into more trouble. We are always willing to help any of the citizens of the Float."
Stock begins making his way to the door. In the meantime, all of what Dorbin says goes right over his head...again.
======= Knowledge Local 4
DM Robert - "Good day." Tuesday May 28th, 2019 8:08:18 PM
Bartomus takes the painting.
Dorbin blurts out information on Peerimon's stolen items.
Zanderallen thanks Peerimon and says they will keep an eye open for his items and herds the party out the door.
Stohp gives Lord Peerimon the eye.
Stock heads out the door.
Micah...remains silent....
=============
"Indeed?" Peerimon asks of Dorbin's analysis. "That certainly is interesting." Perception 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {You see Peerimon's one eyebrow arch upward at Dorbin's statement.} Sense Motive 35 Highlight to display spoiler: {You're pretty sure you've gotten his attention, and that he was not surprised to know what those items were.}
The party exists the house with the painting and the book in hand. Where to now? Lord Jonas Yeager's has the book Pharaoh. Knowledge Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {His house is about 20 minutes walk from here. It is in the better part of the Gold level.}
Or do you head back down the stairs to the merchant level to deliver what you have now?
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 d20+18=35 ; d20+5=20 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+18=24 ; d20+18=37 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 10:27:34 PM OOC: Hmmmm. I posted, but I must not have hit submit or it didn't upload properly. My rolls are still there from yesterday. Too tired to try to repeat it.
After the Shields leave, Micah tells the others, "Did you notice that Lord Peerimon took note that Dorbin knew the identity of those items, but appeared to already know their identity?"
"Other than that, he did not reveal much more than that I would not want to play him in poker."
"As much as I would like to save the steps and stop by Lord Yeager while we are near, I think we are best to rid ourselves of these valuables as quickly as we can."?
=========== Last roll is new for this post. Sense Motive 37 vs DC 35
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+7=13 ; Wednesday May 29th, 2019 12:13:22 AM "Dorbin, how did you know that stuff? Wasn't on the list was it?" Bartomus asked as they headed back out amongst people. He looked at Micah and agreed with the idea of delivering the valuables first, then going on to the next person on the list. "Don't want to be trying to juggle too many of these things."
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=13 ; Wednesday May 29th, 2019 11:43:15 AM
As they depart, Dorbin does not notice Lord P, but he takes note of what Micah says. He replies to Bart, "Indeed, no, those items were not on the list. Clearly something is going on here. I wonder if we are perhaps being used or taken advantage of... But yes, let's return these items to HQ before we move on."
OOC: Perception vs DC 25: 13 failure to notice Lord P
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=12 ; d20+14=16 ; d20+1=11 ; Wednesday May 29th, 2019 4:53:47 PM "Keep your eyes open everyone, for whatever reason it seems like Crimson is targeting these valuables. I can only guess it is to antagonize us, we have been a thorn in his side for some time now. As to Lord Peerimon hiding the exact identity of the items he mentioned as stolen I wouldn't think too much of it. For one who has been working on rebuilding the family fortune those are immensely valuable items. And whatever reputation we may have adventurers as a whole are often regarded as treasure hunters. He might think it better if we didn't know the value of what he possessed. After we return these items we can visit Lord Yeager and decide on our next steps towards finding Crimson or rounding up his thugs." ---------------------------- Perception 12 Sense Motive 16 Know (local) 11
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Wednesday May 29th, 2019 7:29:44 PM
Stock shakes his head but remains otherwise silent. [b]I will lead the way as always.[b]
[i]Too many things going on that I can’t follow. Just give me some thing to smash.[i]
Stock chuckles and then let’s out a belly laugh.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Wednesday May 29th, 2019 7:45:52 PM
"Man I could use a drink." Sighing Sid laughs with Stock, "I know right! Just give me a bow to fire or a lock to pick and leave the machinations to those with more free time than sense."
DM Robert - " Just give me some thing to smash." Wednesday May 29th, 2019 8:11:51 PM
Micah thinks it would be best to drop off their finds at the publishing house.
Bartomus agrees with the idea of dropping things off.
Dorbin thinks something is going on, he's just not sure what it is.
Zanderallen thinks the party should keep their eyes open because Crimson is targeting the valuables.
Stock chuckles and then let’s out a belly laugh as he wishes for things to smash.
Sid agrees with Stock.
Stohp stays quiet.
===========
The party heads toward the stairway. Editors note, the geometry and layout of the Float is somewhat vague on where the stairs are by level, sometimes not even having an indication of any. So unless and until the powers that be say otherwise I'm putting a staircase running outside the north tower. There are approximately 6 stories between each level, so 60 feet. That means the stair case will wrap around the tower over the water at some points. There is going to be a landing at each corner. Best idea I could come up with. I'm going to say it's 15 feet wide but people are going up and down so sometimes things could get tight depending on the load.
It's between 6:30 and 7 pm. Traffic is light.
How about a marching order?
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 Wednesday May 29th, 2019 11:09:40 PM "It is not paranoia if someone really is out to get you," says Micah in response to Zanderallen.
"These stairs would be a good place for an ambush. Zanderallen, you should join Stock in the lead with Sid right behind you, looking for trouble. Stohp and Bart, with your reach you would be good in the next rank. Then Dorbin and I can guard the rear."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Thursday May 30th, 2019 8:37:40 AM
Stohp nods and takes her position (sorry for poor posting, haven't been sleeping well. Will try to do better).
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=27 ; Thursday May 30th, 2019 11:48:20 AM
Dorbin looks around nervously to see if he spots anyone watching the group (perception: 27) as they head down the stairs.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+13=32 ; Thursday May 30th, 2019 12:34:59 PM
Stock leads the way through the town, doing his best to avoid knocking anybody over as he bulls ahead. "I know we didn't get everything we thought form Peerimon but at least we got something." Then in a lower voice, "And if he has some connection to Crimson, maybe it will lure out some thugs."
He frees his flail from its holder and keeps a steady eye out for trouble.
====== Perception 32
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=16 ; Thursday May 30th, 2019 5:07:01 PM "Aye Micah", Zander takes a spot in the lead, eyes and ears open. He watches the passersby closely, looking for suspicious persons or a sudden lack of foot traffic. People had a way of disappearing when there was trouble around, almost a 6th sense. -------------------------- Perception 16
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Thursday May 30th, 2019 5:53:21 PM "Ok, sure, sure, remember though, trying to balance a painting here. So, we need to protect the things we just picked up." Bartomus said in agreement with Micah's suggested order. He was really hoping that they could just drop these items off and then maybe find something to eat and drink as a well earned reward. It was a nice, pleasant hope he maintained.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+12=31 ; Thursday May 30th, 2019 6:46:08 PM
"Let's see, too cramped Daffyd, so Holly it is," Sid makes sure his Shortsword of Subtly is easy moving and at the ready. "Ok, ok, ok ok," he mutters as he looks around behind Stock.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Thursday May 30th, 2019 7:06:51 PM
Stohp notes the rest of the party prepping for a fight. "You guys seem ready for a fight. Did something happen?" (remind me, did anyone inform Stohp and the others you were attacked?)
DM Robert - "So, we need to protect the things we just picked up." Thursday May 30th, 2019 8:38:14 PM
Micah sets a marching order.in response to Zanderallen. (except he put the two size large people side by side on a 15 foot walkway).
Stohp ambles along. (A fight has not started yet, but the party is reading the warning signs, especially when the DM posts and asks for a marching order.)
Dorbin tries to keep an eye out.
Stock frees his flail from its holder and keeps a steady eye out for trouble.
Zanderallen keeps an eye out for suspicious persons.
Bartomus tries to be ready but has to hold onto the paintings, and wonders about food again.
Sid loosens his sword and starts looking around. -------- You are walking down the wide steps (the steps being 10 feet wide to accommodate all sizes and strides) Stock and Sid notice 6 people on the landing below, they appear to be playing some sort of dice game. Also they appear young, late teens maybe. As you come down you notice that they are not really making that much of an effort to play dice, and then you notice their rapiers and shortbows.
Micah notices that another group of young people have been coming down the stairs behind them. At first glance they would appear to be a group of young noble types out for a night on the town. They also are probably in their late teens. However, his keen eye spots at least the two in front having saps out in their hands.
Ahead of you one of the youths does a head flick to move long dark hair out of his eyes. "Good Evening. I'm afraid it's after 6 and there is now a toll to walk these stairs."
When Micah realizes what is about the happen, he sighs in resignation.
K did that so much better," thinks Micah as the boy flips his hair.
He turns to face the speaker, clearly presenting his anvil and hammer of Domi, along with his WLA badge. Calmly and without any sign of concern, he responds, "Oh, that is the way it works here. Just how much is toll? If it is reasonable enough, there won't have to be any bloodshed."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Friday May 31st, 2019 8:36:08 AM
Stohp knows she should just stay quiet and let Micah try to resolve things peacefully but she just can't help herself. "Seriously? This is your concept of a good idea? You pick the most heavily armed and armored group you can to try to hold up while also either failing to recognize us or so arrogant as to not care that we're the most celebrated group of adventurers currently occupying the city? Gods I thought by this point random thugs would know better, but I guess the world is full of idiots. This is almost as silly as when that Shreds guy decided to pick a fight with us and an entire temple of priests at the same time."
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+12=21 ; Friday May 31st, 2019 9:47:22 AM "HA Stohp! Good one! Remember how I busted through a wall and clobbered some priests? I was out of practice then too. I'm sure it would go so much quicker now." He chuckles and then says to the one he picks out as the most leader-ly, "For a toll, too? Who are you even? I mean seriously who are you. I need you to tell us, tell us who you are working for and then get out of here. The Float doesn't need your kind of anarchy. What's this no-bloodshed talk, Micah? These boys are walking down a path of plenty of bloodshed."
======== Intimidate 21
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Friday May 31st, 2019 10:47:00 AM
Dorbin mentally counts all the yoots, then starts talking quietly to himself (casting a summon spell).
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Friday May 31st, 2019 12:12:01 PM
Zander stops, stares for second, and starts laughing as he listens to his companions outbursts, his full plate creaking as he rocks back and forth, "Now, now "hahahah" there's no reason a bunch of young hooligans need to get killed this evening. Broken bones and a good dunking are a hell of a teacher." Finally able to control his laughter and get his words out, Zander straightens and pulls his sap from his belt looking suggestively over the edge of the stairs.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+2=16 ; Friday May 31st, 2019 6:35:29 PM
Stohp eyes the youths, noting their clothes look to fine for them to be desperate ruffians. "Looking at you I'm guessing you're after something specific, not just a few gold coins, and you were at least smart enough to ensure you outnumber us and surrounded us. So let me my the situation very clear; you won't get whatever you're after, and even if you win this fight you lose. Half the town knows our names, and you weren't smart enough to conceal your faces. Between the 8 of us we can remember all of you well enough to describe the lot of you and soon half the town will be hunting for you for payback when they hear you waylaid the local heroes. Don't think your rich parents can protect you if you're related to nobles, we didn't get this far without making contacts of our own with the higher-ups. Walk away, and we'll forget you tried this. Stick around, and one way or another you're going to end up bruised and bloody on the ground." (intimidate 16 to aide Stock)
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+1=15 ; Friday May 31st, 2019 6:36:33 PM
She also suits actions to words and memorizes as many faces as she can (int check? if so, 15, should be good for a couple faces)
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 37/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 2d8+2=15 ; d20+7=26 ; Friday May 31st, 2019 7:08:09 PM
Bartomus looked downward at the one group, then back up at the other. He sighed loudly then chuckled when Stohp and Stock laid things out pretty clearly. He lowered the painting and turned it to where it was shielded away from himself and the approaching thugs. "Wait, wait, you mean we can't electricute them, us just want us to break bones and not like burn them to crisps? Well, I guess I need to take a sip of this to calm me down a bit."
He reached into his pouch and pulled out a small vial. He swalled it quickly and then began talking aloud softly. ----- Swallow cmw potion for +15; aid in intimidation with a 26
DM Robert - " Broken bones and a good dunking are a hell of a teacher." Saturday June 1st, 2019 10:04:30 AM
Micah sighs and tries to talk peace asking what the toll price is.
Stohp is incredulous and tells the group they are out of their depth.
Stock talks up the game and actually tries to intimidate them.
Dorbin starts preparing a spell.
Zanderallen adds to the intimidation talk.
Stohp catches on and adds to the intimidation.
Bartomus drinks a potion and helps with the intimidation.
Sid...
---- The 'yoots' move around. When they are asked who they are working for they momentarily look at each other. Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { They honestly seem confused by the question.}
"Look you," hair toss boy on the lower landing says. "Toll is...200 gold for each taur and 100 gold each for the rest of you."
From above one of the yoots speaks out, this is girl with shoulder length blond hair. "If you really are the Silver Shields, then you guys know how tuff it is to make a living. Ain't nobody from the upper crust level willing to help out for those of us what lives below."
"Shut up Sheila." Hair boy says. "Look at them, just like the rest, buying 'paintin's and what not when they could spend money to have a starving artist make them something new and unique." He turns his attention back to you. "Talk is cheap, I bet most of your rep is just hooey from that schlock Weekly Bugle newspaper." Perception 25 OR Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Sounds like he's trying to rally the troops.}
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+1=11 ; Saturday June 1st, 2019 12:43:49 PM
Sid steps forward, "Hi, Sid from the Split Arrow here. We're actually on business at the moment. Sheila?" He says looking at the girl, "If you need a job or training, I can get you an apprenticeship to be a bowyer right now, and that goes for any of you. I can probably do woodcutters as well. I have some odd jobs coming up that will pay well and can be as long term as you want."
Sid holds up his left hand so that the scarred stub of his pinky-finger is clear. "I have no patience tonight. Any who try to take will pay the price and win their own bone dice." He reflectively touches a pouch that hangs around his neck. "Wardd's Grace is how you use it. So consider wisely." His eyes are hard and dangerously hungry as he looks at them.
Intimidate: 11 ((Shame too because he is so sincere.))
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 37/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+8=15 ; d20+8=20 ; d20+7=19 ; Saturday June 1st, 2019 3:13:11 PM
Bartomus held the last word of his spell as he looked between the two who were leading this shake down. When Sid went up, Bartomus vanished and walked down finishing the spell as he reappeared in front of the rude lad.
"Boo, little boy," he said loudly, [/b]"and you never talk to a lady like that."[/b] He held up his stone encrusted fist in front of the hair tossing man. His voice had a deep tone to it when he spoke at the man now right in front of him. "Imagine, what stone would do to that nice haircut, are you really sure you want this fight today?
SM 15 and then 20; Used Hide Away to move the 25 ft down to "c" and then a 19 to intimidate.
"It appears their working on their own," he tells the others loud enough for the group to hear that they are being talked about in third person while present.
Then he addresses the apparent leader, "Actually, we did not buy this painting. It was stolen and we are returning it to its rightful owner--someone who would be destitute were we not helping them out.
"I will agree with you on one point, however. The Weekly Bugle is schlock."
He relaxes his stance and speaks calmly and warmly, "Listen to Sid's offer. He is working on something that will help out many people. There are real opportunities he is offering. I am offering you a carrot, but my friends here are ready to provide the stick, should you continue to hinder us.
Sense Motive 22 vs DC 20 Sense Motive 25 vs DC 20 Diplomacy 24 to influence the hooligans.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+1=10 ; Saturday June 1st, 2019 11:05:12 PM
"I'll even buy dinner and a drink for anyone who makes up the offer now. We know carpenters, sailors, cooks, inn keeps. Ffloyd's Awl, half of us are WLA members or scholars of some stripe." he says pointing to his WLA badge.
He says to Micah, "I like their comics though. I can usually get a chuckle from that fat orange owlbear, and it's always nice to read Prince Valiant. Really though they can't spell their own paper's name right half the time."
Diplomacy(Aid Micah): 10 ((*Sighs* Talking just really isn't my strong suit))
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Sunday June 2nd, 2019 9:56:31 PM
Dorbin lets Bart move forward and finishes his spell. As he does so, a large hound archon appears behind the group of youths (at H32).
OOC: Hound Archon AC 19; HP 51; DR 10/evil; Aura of menace; magic circle against evil, 10' r.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=12 ; d20+17=34 ; Monday June 3rd, 2019 11:01:21 AM
Dorbin looks around at the gathered youths and tries to see if he can spot any that might look like a spellcaster in the group near the archon (perception: 12; knowledge, arcana: 34).
OOC: Hound Archon AC 19; HP 51; DR 10/evil; Aura of menace; magic circle against evil, 10' r.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+6=26 ; d20+13=14 ; Monday June 3rd, 2019 1:49:59 PM
Stock stairs down the group and comes to the same realization that Micah did. "Hmm. So you're either not working for anybody or don't realize you're working for somebody." The tension goes out of Stock's stern visage and he rocks back on his heels a bit, realizing his turn to talk is over.
========== Sense Motive 26 Perception 14 Nat 20, Nat 1 and the world reverts to the mean
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+14=21 ; d20+14=23 ; Monday June 3rd, 2019 2:05:25 PM
Zander relaxes a bit as the talk seems to be heading towards a peaceful resolution. He almost jumps as in the midst of it all he hears and feels the release of magic. Bart seemingly appears in front of him and he sees a hound archon cutting off the retreat of the upper group. He bites back several scathing comments and instead prepares for the worst while trying to head it off, "Everyone stand down, Dorbin call off the attack dog." He feels a little bad about calling the hound archon an attack dog but only after it comes out. ------------------ Sense Motive 21 Sense Motive 23
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+8=19 ; Monday June 3rd, 2019 6:31:40 PM
Stohp is sympathetic, but firm. "Look, I do know how hard it can be. When I moved here I had nothing and I was quickly stuck living on the streets. This isn't the way to turn things around though. Even if you get your 1000 gold, split what, 10 ways? 100g is a lot, but it won't last forever, and if you're injured in a fight getting it then you have medical bills to pay for and if you go to a temple then you might easily be tracked down. You don't want to spend the rest of your life hoping the guards aren't coming to throw you in jail. We know people all over the flaot, we can help you find work without resorting to armed robbery."
Dip 19
DM Robert - " Broken bones and a good dunking are a hell of a teacher." d20+3=17 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=4 ; d6+1=4 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+4=24 ; d20+4=17 ; d6+1=5 ; d20+4=16 ; d20+12=32 ; 2d4+4=11 ; d20+12=17 ; d20+12=19 ; 2d4+4=9 ; d20+11=16 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+11=29 ; d6+1=6 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+12=25 ; 2d4+4=8 ; d20+7=21 ; 2d4+4=9 ; d20+12=20 ; 2d4+4=8 ; d20+7=17 ; 2d4+4=8 ; Monday June 3rd, 2019 8:48:29 PM
Sid talks diplomatically but acts intimidatingly.
Bartomus (Okay you said you moved down to C but C is up. Hair boy is 3. As that is who you are talking to I'm moving you 'Down' to him, you can't quite make it all the way.)(Please let me know what spell you have cast. DM's Gotta Know!) and if you want to actually move that direction.
Micah tries to be diplomatic.
Sid does some more talking.
Dorbin summons...a hound Archon? I don't think so. You used your summon monster IV already for this "day". You have not rested and this is still the same day as the halfling encounter and the thieves after Sturgis's shop.
Stock figures this group may just be a bunch of youth's out to make a buck off the rich.
Zanderallen tries to calm things down.
Stohp tries to be diplomatic.
------ I'm an wiping the turn and allowing you all a redo on this one because of the confusion on spells and where up and down was.
If you go back and read the turns, at least once a week I was putting in a time reminder to let you know the time of day you were still in.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Tuesday June 4th, 2019 4:47:26 AM
Stohp's actions stand.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 37/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+7=13 ; Tuesday June 4th, 2019 9:26:10 AM
Bartomus stood there looking down at the mouthy kid (#3) and holding a stare, or tried to with an intimidating tone. However, he was somewhat distracted by the sudden amazing motions of Sid that literally shocked the taur in their rapid sequence of movements.
"Truly, lads, we can all just let this be a big misunderstanding and you could come join us for a good meal at the Ghost," Bartomus said to the other young thugs.
---- Spell was Stone Fists and it remains; following Sid's amazing acrobatics, attempt to hold the other's attention and intimidate roll of 13
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Tuesday June 4th, 2019 11:44:44 AM
Dorbin sees Sid fly into action and quickly debilitate one of the gang. He pauses and doesn't quite finish his spell as he anxiously waits to see what will happen next.
OOC: I think we're still a little off on up and down. I thought Bart went up, towards the bottom of the map, towards youths b through g. But then Sid went down, towards the numbered group, right? Anyway, presuming everyone's attention is towards the group down the stairs (the numbered group), Dorbin will prepare an action to cast a web across the stairs between the shields and the lettered group, should any of that group start to attack. With a 20' radius spread, it should completely block the stairs (cover and combat maneuver or escape artist, DC 18 to get through).
"Did he just do that?" marvels Micah at Sid's sudden attack.
If the boy is unconscious Seeing that Sid used the flat of his blade, Micah calls out to the kids, Do not be alarmed! He is merely unconscious. We wish you no harm, but will not be assaulted.
If the boy is still up He calls out to Sid's target, "Had enough? Know that we will continue to focus our response on you while defending ourselves from the others. Do you still want to lead this fight or are you willing to stand down and talk peaceably?"
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Tuesday June 4th, 2019 2:15:47 PM
Zander is both impressed and shocked at Sid's acrobatics and blow. But he prepares to back up the party line, sap ready but holding his position.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Tuesday June 4th, 2019 2:23:03 PM
(See email: I think Sid cancelled his action. Not certain though)
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+13=15 ; Tuesday June 4th, 2019 5:00:16 PM OOC: Yeah Andrew asked for his post to be removed. I guess I'll give two posts to work off
If hostilities have started: Seeing Sid take the first action, Stock moves up, drops his flail and grabs the nearest kid. "I can't believe I'm saying this but just COOL OFF, EVERYBODY!"
If Sid did not attack: "So what will it be, boys? The Carrot or the Stick?" This last bit is emphasized with a rhythmic tapping of the handle of Stock's flail against his hand. "In case you couldn't tell, I'm usually The Stick."
Grapple: 15, provokes
Posting for Sid Tuesday June 4th, 2019 7:53:17 PM
"Ok, ok, let's calm down." Sid says raising his hands, "Now, we know what it's like to have it rough, but you don't have to go about it this way. I can promise an apprenticeship to anyone who needs it. I'm part of The Split Arrow and we could would fletchers and bowyers. We know wood workers, cutters, masons, bakers, tavern owners. I tended bar up to a year ago myself on top of the bowery. We don't want this, for you or for us. Please, let's go to Brassy's, have a drink and a meal, and talk about what we can do for the long term. Because, trust me, this doesn't last long, and the ending isn't a good one." (Diplomacy +1, aiding Micah)
DM Robert - "Because, trust me, this doesn't last long, and the ending isn't a good one." d20+8=28 ; Tuesday June 4th, 2019 8:30:22 PM I'm doing some razzle dazzle with your postings...Sorry I missed Sid saying to delete his post and then was waiting for an email from him to drop into his post, so things got a little curvy.
Bartomus turns invisible advances down the stairs and pops up a few feet from the dice rolling group threatening them with a stony fist and some big words.
Stohp tries to reason with them, pointing out that their 'toll' is not going to net them a lot of money in the long run.
Bartomus tries to setting things down by offering a meal to everyone.
Dorbin readies a spell and holds onto it.
Micah tries to influence the gang in regards to Sid's actions.
Zander is ready to back things up.
Stock emphasizes that he's got a big stick and isn't afraid to use it
Sid continues to try and find gainful employment for the group.
-----------------
The gang at the lower end (the numbers) are looking at one another while also keeping an eye on you. Perception 20, hearing, Highlight to display spoiler: {They are whispering and discussing their options, clearly they feel they are not up to your challenge. But also many of them are whining about actually having to work and not being able to sleep in and do what they want. It's about a 50/50 toss up right now.} Sense Motive 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { You get the sense that some of the yuts might be interested in the jobs aspect of things, but some of them seem to be just not suited to working for the man and following that sort of lifestyle.}
Meanwhile the gang at the top of the stairs (the letters) seems to also be talking in whispers while keeping an eye on you. Perception 20, hearing Highlight to display spoiler: {They are talking about loosing the advantage and if the guys down stairs bolt they will be less effective in trying to make some money. Their blond leader points out that they have other ways to make some money than getting into a fight.} Perception 28 seeing Highlight to display spoiler: { you see all of the members of the gang at the top of the stairs reach about their persons and retrieve a vial of some kind which they appear to also be popping off the corks as it were.}
opps map you are now on the tab 'counting down' I didn't know what else to call it since we're not in combat rounds yet.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+13=31 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+13=17 ; d20+13=26 ; Wednesday June 5th, 2019 10:08:57 AM
Stock's attention is focused on the youths in front. "Of course the other option is that we can just bring you to the guard. I'm sure they can figure something to do with you...Heck, maybe they would even take on some apprentices. And don't let me hear this guff about work, I've spent my whole life working - either in the mines, in the military or building out some rich guy's place upstairs. Life is work. Get over it." ====== Perception (1) 31 Sense Motive 8 Perception (2) 17 Perception (3) 26
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=14 ; d20+2=16 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=11 ; Wednesday June 5th, 2019 11:22:37 AM
Dorbin hears the youths at the top of the stairs talking about "other ways" of taking money. He mumbles, "Right. No fighting." He waves his hand and tosses a strand of a spider web in their direction. A massive web appears between the youths and the Silver Shields, blocking the stairway. He says to the shields, "They were planning some trickery. I'm done with them. Shall we be off?"
OOC: Perception, lower end, DC 20: 14 fail Sense Motive, DC 25: 16 fail Perception, hearing, upper, DC 20: 28 success Perception, seeing, upper, DC 28: 11 fail
Web: 20' radius should block stairs, extra-thick. cover and combat maneuver or escape artist, DC 18 to get through.
Micah sees the talking among the two groups, but is unable to discern what it is about.
When Dorbin casts the spell and announces trickery, his eyes narrow in concern.
Deferring to the wizards perception and judgment, he prepares to cover Dorbin's withdrawal, ready to repel anyone who should try to come through the protective web.
====== Perception 14 vs DC 20 Sense Motive 21 vs DC 25 Perception 11 vs DC 20 No check vs DC 28
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=19 ; d12=5 ; d20+14=28 ; Wednesday June 5th, 2019 4:44:22 PM
Getting the sense that the group below is split on their idea of a good day's work and Dorbin's cutting off of the upper group Zander moves to grab the painting. "Alright ladies and gentleman, you've got three options right now: Step aside and let us through. Walk with us and learn about some job opportunities. Or get free lesson in head knocking." He moves a couple stairs down and surveys the group of hooligans. ----------------------- Perception 19 fails Sense Motive 28 succeeds vs 25 (ignore d12)
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Wednesday June 5th, 2019 6:39:37 PM
Sid nods walking forward steadily with the rest of the Shields as they move. "Really, if we were serious about this, we would have finished this already. If you want to receive training, food, and possibly shelter, follow me. I you want to be maimed or possibly die, stay in our way. Personally I prefer the former. Less paperwork, right Stock?"
((I totally posted and didn't realize that the redo had been. Let's see if they attack again!))
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+14=20 ; d20+14=31 ; d20+14=30 ; d20+10=23 ; Wednesday June 5th, 2019 6:40:52 PM
Stohp listens in on the conversation and notes the drawing of bottles (perception 20, 31, and 30). She agree's with her fellows that it's time to leave and she follows cautiously, watching for any nasty surprises from either group.
DM Robert - "Because, trust me, this doesn't last long, and the ending isn't a good one." Wednesday June 5th, 2019 8:45:22 PM
The webs stretch from the floor of the stairs to the ceiling (remember the stairs go round and round, so the ceiling is about 15 feet high and is just another level of stairs) and from the wall to the 4 foot high railing. Really it's quite the mess. Your vision is obscured but you're pretty sure the upper level gang turns back and goes up the stairs.
The yuts in front break ranks with the casting of the web spell that cuts them off from their 'buddies'. All but 2 of them flee down the stairs. The other two.."Um, really I'd like to know about getting some sort of job.", the other one nods his head. "Yeah, but we really don't have any skills to speak of, we just sort of well you know knock heads every now and then, but mostly with each other."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 37/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+12=15 ; d20+8=18 ; Wednesday June 5th, 2019 10:39:39 PM "Sure, sure, I suspect we can find you something," Bartomus said in a quick realization that they were talking to the group of the Shields. He turned back to the others and added, "we can find them something respectable, maybe with the new venture we suggested to our milling friend? But, can we at least buy you something to eat?"
Sorry, I thought I posted, but aparetly rolled perception and sense motive and then walked away from the computer.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Thursday June 6th, 2019 4:51:49 AM
Stohp smiles and nods. "That qualifies you for any number of jobs. Bouncer is the one that comes to mind imediantly, there are plenty of bars in town that could use one. Guards, both the official type and private ones. We could probably find you a job like that and you could work on learning whatever skill your interested in on your off time."
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Thursday June 6th, 2019 11:20:54 AM
Stock shrugs his shoulders and then leads the group forward. "To the newspaper then for another delivery. And then where?"
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Thursday June 6th, 2019 11:54:57 AM
Dorbin smiles as he sees the Silver Shields victorious without having to kill a bunch of kids. Then he ponders and realizes that he's not much more than a kid himself. He is glad that a couple of the kids are open to changing their life for the better.
As the group starts down the steps he says to no one in particular, "That web will stay there for about an hour. Do you think I should get rid of it before we go?"
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 Thursday June 6th, 2019 1:14:01 PM "I think is has served its purpose," responds Micah with a grin. "Well played," he adds with a head bow to Dorbin.
He, too, is happy with the outcome and joins the other Shields, along with their two new charges, down the stairs.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Thursday June 6th, 2019 6:26:36 PM "Haha, I imagine it would be rather irksome to leave the web up. But come along you two, we have a quick stop to make and then we'll take you to the Fence level to have dinner. I'm sure we can introduce you to some merchants or others that would be more than willing to take on a few extra hands, especially if you're willing to apply yourselves. A lot of opportunities opening up with the forest being open to us now." Zander helps Bart grab the painting and heads toward Rosebud.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Thursday June 6th, 2019 6:30:19 PM
Sid exhales and goes to the two yuths, "I'm Sid," he says holding out a hand. "and welcome to a good decision." After shaking their hands and getting their names he says, "Alright, come along. We've got some business to finish, but we'll talk and figure something on the way. Now, what do you two want to do? If you want to be a tough Stohp has some good ideas. If not we can probably figure something out. If you have no idea, well I've got something for that as well."
DM Robert - "To the newspaper then for another delivery. And then where?" Thursday June 6th, 2019 8:25:20 PM
Bartomus is pleased that apparently some of the young one's are willing to break away from a life of crime. Hmm, has anyone else had posting issues? I know John/Micah had issues and now Rod/Mitch? Do we need to notify the powers that be that there may be an issue?
Stohp starts naming several jobs that the two may be able to get right away.
Stock is ready to get the show on the road.
Dorbin is happy at the way things turned out. He asks if he should get rid of the web or let it stay for an hour. Knowledge Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { There will be some traffic on the stair way, but not much as it is already past closing time for most of the shops on the merchant level.} Hero point to Dorbin for realizing those kids were pretty close to your own age.
Micah thinks the web has served it's purpose.
Zanderallen has the painting and is all for dropping it off and then having a meal. He mentions several opportunities for the lads.
Sid asks what the two want out of a career.
---------
Sean shrugs his shoulders. He is average in height and build, you get the impression that he may not make the best of bouncers. "I don't know. Never thought about it really. Been scrapping a living on the trash level since me mum died about 8 years ago." Sense Motive 20 a Highlight to display spoiler: {From his body language you get the impression he has had a long life of hardship but that there is some spark in him that kept struggling to survive and prosper.} Perception 20 a Highlight to display spoiler: {The lad can't be more than 16 years old.}
Thomas smiles at Sid. Then he glances around at Bartomus and answers somewhat nervously. "Honestly, I like to sing. My dad wasn't having it though and he would often smack me around when I tried to play music or write some songs. He always said I was a disappointment to him and that if I would have tried harder I would have been a guard like him." Sense Motive 20 b Highlight to display spoiler: {Bartomus is by far the largest of your group, and did play up being intimidating. Perhaps just for a moment Thomas was recalling images of his childhood and a large parental figure cuffing him.} Perception 20 b Highlight to display spoiler: {He's not bad looking, a little dirty and maybe he needs a bath. He certainly has some charm in his smile.}
You arrive at Rosebud Publishing right as Miss Daneel is locking up. You can see Hanse standing next to her, scanning the streets. He leans over and whispers to her. Miss Daneel turns around and seeing you quickly unlocks the door. Hanse motions you in but eyes the two youths severely.
She takes you to the library. IF you recall the library is a large room 40x70, richly appointed and spacious, the walls beneath a 15 foot ceiling are lined with well-filled wooden bookcases 9 feet high. Above the bookcases, the wall are decorated with swords, battleaxes, maces, shields of various designs (all of which have been blunted and rendered useless). Several helms sit upright on the top of the bookcases. Flanking the door are two suits of plate armor, each holding in one gauntlet a 14 foot pike. The window drapes are heavy dark green velvet. There are three small desks in the room and 2 couches and 5 chairs. The couches and chairs are all worn but comfortable looking. Perception 10 c Highlight to display spoiler: { One desk appears to have a ledger on it and there is a stack of books on the floor next to the desk.}
Miss Daneel says, "Thank you for your efforts. You have done more in one day than I thought possible. I can honestly say I'm very relieved. I think we can stay afloat for a few more months but we really need to find some blockbuster story."
The Sheilds take their leave and head down to the Fence level. Unless you wish to speak to Miss Daneel more...
To which restaurant do you wish to go...The Giggling Ghost, the Fatted Calf, or the Brass Toad?
"Thomas, we know some people who might be able to help you there. I can't promise you anything but a chance to make your own way. Micah, we have some Bard friends we can reach out to right?"
"And Sean, if you're not sure what you want to do you can always apprentice with us at The Split Arrow. Making bows and arrows is an honest trade and if you don't like it then you should at least learn enough to figure something out."
At Rosebud:
Sid notices books and glances at the titles and the ledger if it is open.
((Please ignore last roll, I did 3 perc then 3 sm checks because I got in a grove))
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+6=24 ; d20+13=20 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+13=17 ; d20+13=19 ; Friday June 7th, 2019 9:49:31 AM OoC: No posting problems for me (yet) "Let's go to the Ghost. All this hoofing about town has me hungry."
On the walk over Stock moves between Micah and Stohp and says, "You know, if this Sean kid is interested, we could also probably have him work with Rodrigo in helping to mind the warehouse while we're gone. Granted I don't know if I trust the kid yet but it is worth thinking about."
In response to Sid, Micah shakes his head sadly, "The bards we no are not on the Float, at least for now." Loud enough for the paladin to hear, he adds in a false whisper, " Our paladin is a passable musician. Maybe he can help Thomas develop his skills."
When Stock makes his suggestion, he thinks for a moment before agreeing, "He strikes me as survivor, with enough initiative to be willing to try to change his lot. Rodrigo might be a good influence on him at that."
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Friday June 7th, 2019 4:50:03 PM
Stock says to head to the ghost, so Dorbin follows along, not thinking of any better ideas at the moment.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+14=28 ; d20+5=11 ; d20+14=28 ; d20+5=15 ; d20+5=24 ; Friday June 7th, 2019 5:35:50 PM
Talking to the youths, "I'm not sure I would even claim passable, I have dabbled in music as a hobby. But I have a basic knowledge of chords I could attempt to pass on. As to Rodrigo, you both might benefit from some time working under him, he has a lot of experience in the world. We'll just have to give him a bonus for taking in a couple cubs wet behind the ears." He grins at the two youths as he says it.
As the deliver the painting and the book Zander notes the signs of trouble but hopes they are helping, Just glad to help out after what happened. I'm sure something big will come along for you."
He then takes his leave and heads to the Ghost with the others. He motions for Sean and Thomas to join them at a table and pays for their meal. ------------------------------- Sense Motive:28 Perception:11
Sense Motive:28 Perception:15
Perception:24
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Friday June 7th, 2019 9:06:55 PM
Sid nods to them, "I was pondering Rodrigo. Thomas, Sean, Rodrigo does guard work. Capable fellow. Seen bad and good. Helping us guard our Home right now. Think on that too. I'm good for the Ghost," he says to Stock, "I keep dreaming I'm there in the loo or unwrapping presents. It'll be good to actually be there for once."
DM Robert - "I'm not sure I would even claim passable, I have dabbled in music as a hobby." Saturday June 8th, 2019 10:09:51 AM
Sid tries to make the fellows feel somewhat welcome.
Stock suggests having the kids work with Rodrigo, and he wants to head to the Giggling Ghost.
Micah suggests that Zanderallen try to help Thomas and agrees Rodrigo might aid Sean.
Dorbin is ready to eat at the Ghost.
Zanderallen hands over the goods and agrees some time with Rodrigo might do them good.
Stohp?
Bartomus?
==========
Looking at the ledger, it appears they are trying to go through the entire library inventory to see if anything else might be missing?
The Giggling Ghost is packed tonight. It looks like a full house. Happy see’s the party however, and with a loud voice announces “The Silver Shields!” The local patrons seem to look amongst themselves and by some mysterious consensus move from one of the large tables to several surrounding tables. Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {There is a faintly luminescent creature floating among the patrons. Looks like the ghost is directing traffic and clearing a lane for the shields. }
The party sits and dines well. Happy will not take payment. The crowd for the most part leaves you alone. There appear to be a lot of ‘travelers’ in the Ghost. More than once you see the fireplace flare and then someone new is in the tavern.
Sean and Thomas are in awe. They’ve never been here before. Thomas leans over to Zanderallen, "Have you ever played here? What instrument do you play?"
The food is quite good. But you get the sense that it would not be a best place to discuss plans. After dinner you go to Headquarters.
The door is locked but Rodrigo lets you in….
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Sunday June 9th, 2019 11:17:28 AM
Sid looks at the young men and smiles a bit, and then goes and makes tea for everyone. He comes back with a pot, some cups and biscuits. He pours himself a cup and waits for the others to be ready.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 37/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+12=21 ; Sunday June 9th, 2019 4:12:30 PM
He had to look over his shoulder when they announced the arrival of the Shields. It still took him by surprise that he was a part of this group and that they had done what they had done. The others were in toe with them and they seemed a bit overwhelmed. Good food, talk and a bit of drink made for a good evening.
"There are a lot of opportunities about, if you set your mind to it. Playing here could be one of those things for sure!" He followed the others to their headquarters and looked about when let in. "So tomorrow do we try to find the other missing items, or just hang here?"
Sorry, daughter's HS graduation and all of the prep for it took my time and then some.
Micah keeps an eye on Sean and Thomas at the Ghost. He suppresses a smile as they react in awe.
Once back at their quarters, "Thank you, Rodrigo. Let me introduce to you a couple of new wards, at least for the moment. This is Sean and this is Thomas. They will be staying with us temporarily. Would you mind running them through some drills and seeing what you think." This is all said in front of the boys, with a kindly but firm expression he addresses the two youngsters. "Master Diaz here will be evaluating you on your ability to take care of yourselves. He is a veteran warrior and worthy of respect. What he says goes. Do you understand?"
==== perception 15
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+13=17 ; Monday June 10th, 2019 9:43:43 AM
Stock double takes at the mention of Rodrigo's last name. "Your last name is Diaz? Huh. I never knew!...Ok. Now off to Yeager? Come on Shields! Don't tell me you're getting tired! It's just walking and the occasional run-in with some unsavory types! Ha!"
======= Perception 17
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Monday June 10th, 2019 11:42:32 AM
Dorbin is glad to be back at the HQ. Emily the cat shows up and meows as the group enters. Dorbin wonders if they have room to put up their somehow expanding group of wards. He plops down in a comfy chair as the group discusses what to do next. Emily Jasmine jumps up on his lap as he does so.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=17 ; Monday June 10th, 2019 6:00:36 PM
Zander enjoys the Ghost as always. He laughs as Thomas asks him about playing here, "I've never played here, my skills are not that great. I play the lyre, I would gladly show you the chords." Back at HQ he sits down thanking Sid for the tea. "It would make it a late day, but if we head out we could see if any of the bouncer groups are making late collections." -------------------- Perception 17
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Monday June 10th, 2019 7:50:56 PM
Stohp is rather amused at the reactions of the two. She guesses they believe they are who they said they were now. She tries to judge the time and if they can get more done today or if they should call it. After all it doesn't matter if they're able to stay up all night, no one will be awake to answer questions and open doors eventually.
DM Robert - "Your last name is Diaz? Huh. I never knew!" Monday June 10th, 2019 8:13:06 PM
Sid makes tea for everyone.
Bartomus muses on the plans for tomorrow.
Micah turns the lads over to Rodrigo for a proper evaluation.
Stock is ready to go back out tonight.
Dorbin relaxes with Emily Jasmine.
Zander considers heading out to check on the collection racket tonight.
Stohp wisely wonders if the night is getting too late to get anything done.
==========
As everyone talks about what to do next there are some sudden insights (since most of you grew up on the Float). It's well after diner, few shops will be open on the merchant level, or any level for that matter. The places that will be open are taverns, gambling houses, places of ill repute, and churches. The honest folk will be settling down for the night and getting ready for another day of work tomorrow.
Also the spell casters of the group have had a busy day. No doubt they may want to rest and recover their precious arsenal before venturing out again tonight. After all Bartomus has already been almost dead today, there was a lot of healing applied earlier.
As to what to do next. Well there are only two items left to recover on the Float, A - Sages' Guild: 1-bk, An Expedition to the Barrier Peaks, and B - Lord Jonas Yeager: 2-bk, Pharaoh. You have already returned quite a bit in one day. At this point in the evening it would be imprudent to try and visit one of the Lord's of the City, so going tonight is out of the question. Also, which is the more pressing issue at this point, two more stolen items or the threat to the merchant level with people running a protection racket. And if you recall Torbin Cook did mention that the 'enforcers' were talking about a guard named Smith that was giving them trouble and would possibly have to be dealt with.
In the distance you can hear Rodrigo putting the two youth's through their paces. After awhile he comes to you and waits for a break in your discussion. "They are not without some small fraction of potential and a minor amount of skill. They could help guard the place but I'm not sure long term if that is best for them."
Your beds beckon and you realize what a truly long day it has been.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+12=15 ; d20+15=33 ; Monday June 10th, 2019 8:41:22 PM
"Alright Lady and Gents, I think I will bid you a good morrow. The boys can use my room as long as they don't touch anything."
He goes to Thomas and Sean, "Remember, if you want to be guards you can, but that's just option one. If you decide you're not taking to it, we can find something else, and I've always said that no skills are wasted."
Sid goes out into the night, making his way to home. He ducks into an alley and waits for five minutes and then sneaks home, keeping an eye out as he goes.
Micah is pleased at Rodrigo's report. He nods thanks his thanks and heads up to his quarters.
"Night all," he says as he heads for the stairs.
He carefully removes his armor and inspects each piece as always before setting it aside for the evening. He quickly falls into a peaceful sleep and wakes, as always, before dawn to spend time in meditation, stretches, and prayer.
Refreshed, he heads down to the kitchen area and starts coffee and breakfast.
He is concerned about what sounds like a threat to his brother. As others arise he suggests they go see Lukas to find out what he has been doing. Knowing that the thugs are worried about his actions, learning what those have been might give them insight into what they are afraid might get discovered.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Tuesday June 11th, 2019 10:34:53 AM
Stock chuckles at Rodrigo's comment. "I'm not sure long term any of this is for the best for any of us. But then again here we are, happily marching to knock evil down a peg."
Without another word he heads to the workshop where he puts in a few hours mindlessly planing a pair of wooden planks, enjoying the repetitive motion, the smell and the growing pile of shavings at his feet. Eventually he straightens, yawns and heads up to bed.
He will obviously be first awake in the morning again.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 37/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Tuesday June 11th, 2019 10:57:43 AM
He nodded at Micah, "Night Micah, well earned rest ahead for all of us I hope."
He thought about the day and it was a rough one. There were freshly healed scars made possible by the contributions of his fellow Shields, and there were tired, tense muscles that needed to relaxed. He looked about, "Sleep well Shields, we've earned our rest."
He mounted the stairs with a bit of ache mixed with a bit of slowness. He entered his room and looked at the bed and such. He laid down and spread out on the bed with slumber hitting as quickly as he got comfortable.
When first light came, he rose, took care of his morning business, cleaned up and then put on a cleaner shirt. He moved about and found his way out to the window looking over the lake. His morning contemplations and mediations ended with some thoughts for the day. He got up and stretched then found his way back to the Shield's headquarters.
He wandered throught the large open room and heard a bit of movement in the kitchen. He followed the sounds and wandered in, "Morning Micah, good night sleep here, you? Ready to find what we have left on the list?
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Tuesday June 11th, 2019 12:31:19 PM
Dorbin starts to fall asleep in the comfy chair with the cat. He wakens with a start to see the others heading off to bed. He climbs out of the chair, and Emily Jasmine complains. He waves at her, then heads up to his room for the night.
Emily Jasmine explores a bit and appears inside Micah's armor as he is checking it.
The next morning Dobin wanders downstairs, looking for food and drink.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Tuesday June 11th, 2019 7:23:21 PM
Stohp, having participated in no combat, is not nearly as tired as some of the others. She stays up and chats with the newcomers for a bit before bed, asking them general questions about their interests and stuff. She doesn't stay up to late and rises with the others. She agrees with Micah in that they should check on his brother.
DM Robert - "Sleep well Shields, we've earned our rest." Tuesday June 11th, 2019 8:17:09 PM
Sid arrives at home unmolested and spends a quiet evening with his lady love.
Micah suggests they go see Lukas to find out what he has been doing.
Stock sleeps smelling of pine.
Bartomus asks about going after what's left on the list.
Dorbin rests and Emily prowls about.
Stohp, chats with the youths. In the morning she agrees they should go see Lukas.
Zanderallen....is quiet and contemplative.
- - - Sean is not very forth coming. He is very shy and after a bit Stohp begins to understand that he fights only as a means for survival as he is unschooled in his letters. He may be better qualified in another profession, but what.
On the other hand Thomas talks with enthusiasm about songs and regales you with a tale you've heard in the taverns before. It of course was about the Silver Shields fighting the wheat zombies. You've heard it before and begin to tune it out. However, Perception 20 or Appraise 20 or Perform 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You realize that his singing voice lacks something tempo or something, but then you realize that he's not really singing he's reciting it as a ballad. As a straightup story told in front of a fireplace you realize he's quite good at painting pictures with his words, whether an instrument would help this or not, well only a true bard could tell.}
The party seems split, but most seem to indicate finding Lukas might be the best course of action for the day. With that you prepare to set off for the day.
Are all of your preparations made? All healing done? Bartomus and Stohp your headers still show damage. A nights sleep will restore your level plus your con bonus in hit points. Please make sure your headers are up to date.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+12=15 ; Wednesday June 12th, 2019 9:57:50 AM "Alright, then we find this Lukas, and hopefully we can get the last items on that list." Bartomus said with a smile feeling better than he had when he went to sleep. "Do you think we'll have to figure out how to deal with whoever is also wanting these items?"
Got it, thanks DM. Perception role 15
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+13=23 ; Wednesday June 12th, 2019 11:21:18 AM
Stock greets Lukas warmly, "Have you been ruffling some feathers among the town's undesirables?"
====== Perception 23
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=25 ; Wednesday June 12th, 2019 11:35:25 AM
Dorbin notices Thomas' speaking and says, "Thomas, I do believe you've got the spirit of a bard in you. Now where did Dirk get off to? Maybe we can connect you with an old friend of ours that might be able to help you out there developing your talents."
When the time comes to head out he says, "Let's see what we can find about Lukas, but I think we may see more of the crimson fellow as we explore, so keep your eyes open."
Lukas Smith's body lies on a wooden table, his corpse draped in the city's flag. Dignitaries line up in silent homage to the brave guard. Micah's father looks stern and somber and afraid to meet the priest's eyes. His mother how ever, eyes wet and bloodshot, mouths quietly but fiercely, How could you let your brother die? What kind of priest are you!?"
Micah jolts awake, drenched in sweat. He takes a moment to calm his breathing and reassure himself it was merely a dream. But was it. Worry that this might be a sign gripping his very soul, he goes to Domi in prayer. As he does so, as he was trained to do, he goes other what they have learned and what they may encounter as the day unfolds. He weaves thoughts and prayers together, praying for Domi's help and mentally, and spiritually, preparing for the day.
He descends to the common room and is comforted by everyone's willingness to go check on his brother, Lukas.
============== Micah will have healed anyone who needs it. He cast magical vestment on his shield before departing. Prepared spells updated
Perform 17
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+6=10 ; d20+14=32 ; Wednesday June 12th, 2019 5:18:53 PM
Zanderallen comes down rested and ready for the day after his morning devotions. As they breakfast and prepare to head out he keeps an eye on Micah noticing he seems a little worried under his calm visage. Before they head off he talks to Micah away from everyone else, grabbing him firmly by the shoulder and looking him very earnestly in the face, "Fear not Brother Micah. Lukas may be threatened but it will take quite a bit to take down a Smith. We'll get to the bottom of all this long before they figure out how to stop him." He grins and adjusts a couple straps on his armor before glammering it to look like a Domi crested tunic and clothes. "Let's get moving while the day is young. If Lukas has been marked as causing the criminals trouble he may very well know more than he thinks he does." ----------------- perform 10 Sense Motive on Micah 32
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Wednesday June 12th, 2019 6:28:03 PM
After an early breakfast, and lively debate over whether or not they can afford an apprentice, Sid makes his way back to the Shields. If Sean's concerns are mentioned to him or he hears them as their are said, he will nod and say, "First off, we can learn you your letters if you want to learn them no worries. If you don't want to be a guard, again you can apprentice with me at the Split Arrow. Bows are a good profession. Or I have some new jobs opening up in sanitation. Not glamorous, but it'll be vital for the Float. Think it over and learn what you can from Master Diaz. Make the most of the moment right yeah?"
"I'm ready when the rest of you are. I have a little bit of business in the afternoon, but I should be good until three or so.
DM Robert - "Have you been ruffling some feathers among the town's undesirables?" Wednesday June 12th, 2019 7:59:48 PM
Bartomus is ready to go after more of the lost items.
Stock gives Lukas a hearty greeting.
Dorbin thinks Thomas would make good bard. He is ready to see Lukas.
Micah has a terrible dream. Fortunately his prayers give him some comfort and is happy everyone is willing to see his brother.
Zanderallen offers some comfort to Micah and then makes ready to see Lukas.
Sid encourages the youngesters and is ready to get the day going, because he has an appointment at three.
Stohp apparently stayed up to late and is groggy this morning.
- - -
The party ventures forth, making their way to the Merchant Level and then to one of the guard towers. Entering in the morning you find the place pretty quiet. The desk sergeant nods at you. "Can I help you?" he asks in almost a bored fashion. When you explain you are here to see Lukas he nods again. "Roll call will be over shortly." He points you to some uncomfortable looking chairs indicating that's where you need to wait. Sense Motive 20 a Highlight to display spoiler: {If ever anyone was just marking time to retirement this guy would win the prize. He barely looks interested, and actually doesn't look to be in that good of shape.}
After maybe 15 minutes the guards come out of a room further back and begin heading out the door. When Lukas see's you, you see a number of expressions cross his face, happiness and worry being the chief among them. "Micah, what brings you back again so soon. That fence we shut down seems to have clammed up tight."
When you ask about trouble on the merchant level he subtly shakes his head. Then in a slightly louder voice, "Well I guess I can take you back to Sergeant Lestrade, since he's in charge of burglary." He motions you to follow him. Sense Motive 15 b Highlight to display spoiler: {He's definitely wary of letting someone know what's really being said, but the only persons in earshot are yourselves and the desk sergeant.}
He leads you back into the guard tower and there you see a door marked "Lestrade - Burglary". He gives a quirky knock and you here someone moving inside the room and then the door opening, just enough to let one person in. Lukas motions you in and follows you inside, closing and locking the door. Perception 15 a Highlight to display spoiler: {There are areas of the wall with things posted on them, you realize one is a map of the Merchant level and appears to have some markings in red. There is another area with drawings of faces on them.} Perception 20 b Highlight to display spoiler: {that knock was a coded knock if ever you heard of one.}
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+14=26 ; Wednesday June 12th, 2019 8:02:45 PM
(I think that damage may be from the previous module; she didn't get into the first fight of this one and we avoided the second)
Stohp eyes Sean. "It's fine if you don't know what you want to do. Before the Shields I was mostly just supporting my sister and going through the motions. How about this; between us and our various contacts we can teach you a lot of things and let you try a lot of things. If you're willing I suggest you just try a bunch of different things until you find something that strikes your fancy. Even if it takes a while you'll be picking up useful skills along the way."
As for Thomas, she listens carefully, though she's heard it all before (perception 26). "You tell the story well and I agree with Dorbin. You have some talent, and with some support and mentoring you could make a fine Bard."
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+5=13 ; d20+5=12 ; d20+12=23 ; d20+12=31 ; d20+16=25 ; Wednesday June 12th, 2019 9:18:37 PM
Sid shuffles through, noting the nod and looking at the board trying to piece together the information quickly from what he knows of events that they have been talking about, but also general news of the Float.
Sense Motive: 13 Sense Motive: 12 Perception: 23 Perception: 31 Knowledge(Local): 25
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+6=13 ; d20+6=16 ; d20+6=18 ; d20+6=11 ; Thursday June 13th, 2019 10:05:55 AM
After the greeting with Lukas, Stock is wary to say the least. His instincts are up and it's unclear how to direct them.
Stock will greet anybody in the room with a silent nod and looking at the map with red marks on it, tries to piece together if they represent the same locations that we saw with a diamond...or alternatively if the places with the diamond are all NOT marked in red. ====== Sense Motive 13 Sense Motive 16 Perception 25 (I rolled +6 instead of +13) Perception 18 (I rolled +6 instead of +13)
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+8=11 ; d20+8=11 ; d20+12=21 ; d20+12=14 ; d20+7=25 ; Thursday June 13th, 2019 10:13:35 AM
He just followed along with the others as they headed to the guard station. This was a place he, fortunately, hadn't had to visit in his few years living in the Float. When they all followed along, he glanced into the office and caught sight of the map with the red marks. He saw the drawings of pictures as well. "I can wait out here if there's not enough room for a taur or two in there."
As he stood, he tried to keep the image of the map firmly in his mind and looking over the glance he had to see if anything stood out with where the red x marks were.
SMa - 11; SMb - 11; Pa - 21; Pb - 14; so uncertain as to how many could go into the office. Wrote it as if only one person could go in. KnwL-25 to try to see if there is a pattern with the marked locations on the map of the Merchant Level.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=16 ; d20+8=22 ; d20+17=24 ; Thursday June 13th, 2019 12:01:05 PM
Dorbin follows along quietly watching. He spots the map and also looks for the significance of the markings.
OOC: Perception a, DC 15: 16 Perception b, DC 20: 22 Knowledge, Local: 24
Micah notes the mixed emotions on Lukas' face, but keeps his own reaction to himself.
He similarly suppresses his reaction when he observes the map with its markings and realizes his brother is notifying Lestrade by use of a coded knock.
He waits until all are inside and the door closed, then looks first at Lestrade then his brother, "It appears the rumors we have heard of the danger you are in have not escaped your attention, either." He pauses to look back at Lestrade. Then with a thoughtful expression asks, "What would have been different had Lukas not provided the correct knock?"
================ Sense Motive 34 vs 20 Sense motive auto success Perception a, 22 Perception b 21
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+14=31 ; d10=9 ; d20+14=29 ; d20+5=20 ; d20+5=12 ; Thursday June 13th, 2019 5:10:37 PM
Zanderallen great Lukas and then notices the restraint he is showing towards open discussion so he keeps his questions contained until they are safely locked in Lestrade's office. "Greetings, Sergeant Lestrade I hope you are in good health. It looks like you're already working on what we discovered when returning Miss Daneel's stolen goods. Someone is making a move on the Merchant level in a big way. Lukas you were specifically called out as being trouble, that tells me that something you're doing is close to the heart of the operation. We need to know what you've been sticking your nose in so we can look for what you've gotten close to. I think our two groups need each other, somewhere there are some very powerful people involved. What leads do you have so far?" As Zander speaks he moves around the room looking at the marked maps and sketches. His face is serious and his tone neutral as he hides the very real concern building in his heart. -------------------------- Sense Motive a - 31 Sense Motive b - 29 Perception a - 20 Perception b - 12
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+10=29 ; d20+10=17 ; d20+14=33 ; d20+14=28 ; Thursday June 13th, 2019 7:49:11 PM
Stohp is easily able to read the guards as they go through the facility (sense motive 29, 17, Perception 33, 28). Putting two and two together, she asks "You're worried about dirty guardsmen aren't you? How bad is it?"
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