DM Ken: Taking some time Monday October 21st, 2019 8:10:44 PM
Things have been ...hectic... for the crew of the Lionfish. Saving literally millions of people across a splaying multiverse isn't an easy task, ever, but not only did they succeed, they did so admirably.
With their latest adventure closed up and in the books, only one wrinkle remained, and that was Tinker. No one could really tell the Sea Dragons what he was up to now, and who knew if they would ever find out?
The heroes now shift their focus and their attentions to home. After an adventure, there's always a number of things to work out. Treasure, sale of surplus magic items, upgrading of gear, time spent with chosen organisations or professions, and as Rill recalls, establishing a home base for their dragon group.
Rill decides the way to start is checking in with the Temple of Rest. A few crews got into tussles, there's an invasive fish species that people are getting tired of catching, and some thinks they saw a zombie or two piloting a ghostly rowboat somewhere nondescript. All in all, nothing to catch his attention.
Aexana wants to catch up on some crafting with Leafy, and she's going to have plenty of time in the forest for that and more, if she pleases.
For most of the Sea Dragons, there is little going on now. Sure their reputation is spreading, and a few folks chuckle kindly in passing about bothering the "Great and Powerful Sea Dragons!", but all in all, life is normal.
-------------
OOC: Please take a post or two to catch your character up with the WLA, leveling up if needed, buying and selling, all that good stuff! We will get into your next scripted bit soon enough, so feel free to enjoy some downtime with your characters!
-DM Ken -------------------------------------------
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Monday October 21st, 2019 10:42:54 PM
With nothing much else to do at the moment, Terser heads to the tavern. He asks the brewer some questions and looks into what supplies he would need to make some Dragon Brew in his eventual brewery in the stronghold.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Tuesday October 22nd, 2019 4:23:13 PM
All day long Aex does not show up in town... nor that night... assuming she's sleeping somewhere in the forest in some animal shape most likely... dreaming of past adventures and wondering what is out there still... longing for her little shop back in Plateau City where her daughter still is... when all her work is done here she'll retire there and hope for her daughter to give her some grand children...
Bralin - MikeK - (AC35 T14 F31, HP 221/221) Tuesday October 22nd, 2019 6:40:27 PM
Bralin agrees with Rill about the fortress. "We are the Sea Dragons. Should our base not be on the sea? Mayhap at the mouth of the harbor?"
In the meantime, the dwarf continues to find himself drawn to the stone. He spends his free time watching the local stonemasons go about their work, and getting involved when and where he can.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Tuesday October 22nd, 2019 7:20:29 PM "Awright folks. I'm headed to the Catacombs to sell our stuff, except for the scroll that Bralin is hanging on to. If you all want to plan, I figure each share will be a little over 20,000 GP. I'll let you know."
Rill will head to the Catacombs.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 152/203 (236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday October 22nd, 2019 8:50:58 PM
As she had been wanting to join a dragon party for a long time Fang had put in a lot of thought as to how to design a fortress. She tracks down the captain of the ship, who knows the group and the town far better than herself, and starts quizzing them. "I'd like to work out a few suggestions for our fortress for the others, can you help? We need a place that's both dependable and public. Symbolic, but practical. As dragons it's out duty to been seen to watch over the people, but we'll have enemies that will happily sneak, break, or charge into our fortress. It'll have to be somewhere on the water so our ship can be protected by it - a fortress does no good if our mode of transportation is vulnerable. What jumps out immediately in your mind? I brought a map, lets mark a few options to bring up to the others..."
DM Ken: Taking some time Tuesday October 22nd, 2019 9:24:26 PM
Terser finds his way to the tavern for drinks and quiet reflection. He asks the brewer about supplies needed to make his own beer. The tavern owner isn't particularly certain.
"Sorry Terser, but we don't brew our own ales or spirits here. Everything is bought from the ships coming in. Im sure if you asked around though, your sure to find a sea dog somewhere who knows a bit more than the average deckhand about grog and brewing?"
Aexana continues to spend her time away from the others and in peaceful solitude. She reflects a little on her desire for a grandbaby. She must have fond memories of Plateau City and the nearby Monster Preserve, to already be thinking that far ahead.
Bralin and Fang both consider different plans for fortress building. One of them considers a coastal mooring or lighthouse type fixture, and the other considers somehow creating a mobile, floating fortress.
Bralins search takes him to observe what small bit of stone masonry exists here. Being mostly a naval port and town, most of the stone work is aimed at both private housing, or decorative carvings. As he watches, one man running a stall takes note of his curiosity.
"Well, don't that beat all. It's not often a dwarf will watch a human work stone instead of tellin' 'im he's doin' it all wrong."
The man has been making small charms, chiseled from soft sandstone he's had delivered. They are mostly religious symbols, custom heraldry, and a few other easily sold knick-knacks. He hands Bralin a small fist sized lump of sand stone and some tools.
"If you know how, take a spin at it!" (Bralin, please give me a relevant craft check for something that could be made of stone.)
Rill figures out lootshares, and decides its time to make off to the catacombs.
Fang, meanwhile, focuses on the fortress alone. Her DM can't quite respond here, because he isn't sure if an NPC or a player is the captain of the Lionfish. He will amend this bit in a little bit. ;)
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 6:09:49 AM
Tahni spends a few hours by herself, meditating and trying to process all that has happened. Meeting Maab will be something she will remember for years to come. Quite the honor.
When she's cleaned up she joins Terser in his search for an ale recipe. If she knows the recipe and ingredients he uses perhaps she will be all the better placed to treat those that over-indulge?
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 5:12:15 PM
Terser tends towards ingredients that remind him of home, but he also wants something that the whole crew would enjoy. And certainly at least Captain Jozhur has a refined palette. Things certainly tasted a bit different when he was inhabiting the Captain's body.
Something light and summery. Not too hoppy. Hints of citrus in the first try at least.
Jozhur (Brock) Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 6:34:45 PM
Jozhur spends some time at the WLA, furthering his martial training.
He likes the idea of some fortification at the mouth of the harbor, controlling the main entry point to Bonetown.
Jozhur is also sure to give Terser his advice on what to brew, and reminds Terser he is no longer Captain. "Yes, not really my preference, but an "island ale" with citrus, or maybe banana, would be good. Or even coconut, that would be...different. Ooh, age a dark ale or porter in a rum barrel, that should be a hit here."
Bralin - MikeK - (AC35 T14 F31, HP 221/221) d20+14=18 ; d20+17=18 ; Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 6:39:08 PM
Bralin nods to the fellow, and takes the sandstone.
Reaching into his pack, he retrieves his own set of well-worn, masterwork, stone working tools.
Finding a convenient seat, the dwarf works the rock with a steady scraping and clinking.
Soon enough, he has a decent replica of a sailing vessel roughly shaped. [Craft - Sculpture: 18]
"Not my best," Bralin admits. "I am out of practice".
He holds a hand out to the man. "I am Bralin Stoneminder. I have some skill in sculpting and masonry, but no experience with the business. I have been thinking of opening a shop or mine or craft works. I do not know yet. But, in the meantime, I would like to watch and learn the particulars of managing the trade."
[Diplomacy 18]
OOC - Roleplay gaining ranks in Profession: Stonemason
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 8:48:26 PM
The following day Aex returns and checks in on her friends to see what they have been up to.
"No evil demon anywhere? That's odd..."
DM Ken: Taking some time d20+5=12 ; Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 9:33:44 PM
Tahni finally rouses herself from post adventure stupor. First there's meditation, then there's medication. Of course, part of the fun in finding out what makes a hangover hurt, is earning it in the first place.
Terser and Jozhur decide that a summery, island brew, with citrus is probably the best approach. Should Terser decide to pursue the secrets of making such a thing, some time spent asking around alehouses, gardens, and sailors might be the best approach.
Jozhur also reminds Terser he is no longer captain. His DM is unsure what that is all about. Perhaps the ADM could enlighten him?
Bralin gets to work, and shows the kind merchant his skills. While Bralin was trying to be humble, his work completely outclasses that of the human.
"Bwa ha!" His laugh is loud, abrasive, and genuine. "Tis what I get for tauntin' a dwarf over stonecraft. It's a nice piece Bralin. Much better than what I got."
The man thinks for a minute and rubs his beard stubble.
"Tell ya what. You bring me one of these a week, my materials, and I'll learn ya good on how to run a good business. We are in the right spot for it. You won't sell lots here in Bonetown, but by shipping lanes you are connected to pretty much the whole wide Wold."
(If you are interested, I would be happy to use the Woldian alternate rules for running a business. They've asked for more people to test those rules anyhow. Send me an email if you'd like, or turn the old man down. He won't be offended!"
Aexana finally returns from her rest, and finds it odd there's no demons, no threats, and no catastrophes anywhere in spitting distance. It's good to relax!
DM Ken: Use this last post to wrap up any RP bits or training hooks, then find a reason to head back to the house. The new module starts with tomorrow nights post!
Fang (Mitch) HP: 152/203 (236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 10:09:14 PM
(I forget who's the actual captain, but there's an NPC that runs the crew and that's who I meant. I didn't want to interupt whatever other folks were doing).
Fang spends some time on the ship consulting with the crewmen who know the area about the shoreline, defensible locations, and so on. She heads back to the house with an armful of maps marked all over with ideas and suggestions from various people.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+2=9 ; Thursday October 24th, 2019 6:27:46 AM
With Terser seemingly in good hands, Tahni makes her way back to the house. She stops via a few stores along the way though, picking up a few different meats and some vegetables.
Once back at the house she sets to cooking up a meal for the party and the brothers. Something simple. A casserole perhaps? Yes. A beef and vegetable casserole with potatoes.
The chopping is pretty easy as is finding a suitable pot to cook it in. After about an hour of letting it cook she decides to give it a sample taste. It doesn't turn out as well as expected though. "Waaay too much salt" she notes to herself. (Untrained Profession(Cook): 9)
Tahni looks about the kitchen to make sure she isn't being watched and casts a Prestidigitation spell to actually make it taste quite good. Hey, it's not cheating to cast a spell when you're a caster! That's her justification anyway.
Now satisfied with the taste she prepares a few plates and let's the party know via the rings that dinner is ready.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Thursday October 24th, 2019 3:33:44 PM
Rill returns to Portside House with the results of his Catacombs sale.
"Awright, here's everyone's share. I held out 500 GP for ship maintenance, provisioning and crew."
First he hands the Scroll of Breath of Life to Bralin.
Jozhur - 22,721 GP Rillett - 22,721 GP Aexana - 22,721 GP Terser - 22,721 GP Tahni - 22,721 GP Bralin - 21,596 GP plus scroll
"Fang has no payout this time as he paying back his share for an expensive item last time. Fan, you sill owe 14,103 GP.
"On the Captain thing, I was made Captain of the Lionfish. It's largely ceremonial, and it's really Tula that runs the ship for us. Certainly, if we want to pick another Captain that's fine with me."
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Thursday October 24th, 2019 3:39:37 PM
(Did we all get a hero point for advancing to level 18? I don't think we got any hero points in the last adventure.)
Jozhur (Brock) d20+23=43 ; Thursday October 24th, 2019 7:03:59 PM
Having advised Terser on his own taste in beverage, Jozhur decides to sample some of what is available locally.
While doing this, it is customary for Jozhur to chat up an attractive barmaid. He will pick up whatever bits and pieces of news he can. It's probably pretty mundane, but he acts interested. (Diplomacy: 43).
He cuts himself off before drinking himself too silly. It seems trouble could find him at just about any moment, especially now that the Black Lions were Dragons.
Ooc: I need to fix my post header, hopefully tonight when I get to a PC.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Thursday October 24th, 2019 7:14:27 PM
Terser thinks over the ingredient list, but if anyone knows about cooking up a good ale, it will be the brothers back at the house.
If there are any local makers of equipment though, he'll be sure to commission stuff there.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC35 T14 F31, HP 221/221) Thursday October 24th, 2019 7:38:35 PM
Bralin nods to the man.
"Agreed," he declares, and takes the man's hand.
With business concluded, Bralin returns to the house, mentally going over what to create for his next piece.
He arrives in time to receive his share from Rill.
The dwarf considers. Mayhap a trip to the Catacombs is in order.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Thursday October 24th, 2019 8:32:31 PM
Aex also collects her share of the spoils and intends to use it at the catacombs. Who knows what they'll meet next anyhow!
DM Ken: Knock Knock. Thursday October 24th, 2019 9:04:07 PM
Rill returns to the house, payouts in hand. He divides up the shares of gold, makes note of the amount of credit that Fang owes, and offers to step down as captain. Do any of the others want to take a turn perhaps? (Send me an email if you are interested in taking a stint at honorary captain).
Fang, Terser, Jozhur, and Bralin return home to the rich smells of meat and vegetables after wrapping up their respective business. Tahni is just setting out the food, seasoned to magical perfection.
The night is nice, and sometimes, its good to remember what the world is like when you aren't up to your necks in monster guts, forces of evil, and pressure from a pantheon. Or a Pantheon. The night turns old, and then the morning is young.
-----------------------------
Its still early in the morning, and a lazy fog rolls over the low tide outside. The fog is strong, and deep. It masks the bottom of the wooden piers, casting the illusion of pier-stilts that reach endlessly down to an impossibly far away ocean floor.
There is an excited knock on the door of the Portside house, and an eager voice calls in through the door.
“Hello? Hello!? I’m here for my appointment with the Sea Dragons! I’m just a little early, but .. oh bother.. this wind just won't ... OH NO!”
Fang (Mitch) HP: 152/203 (236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday October 24th, 2019 9:17:18 PM
Fang, who is a she, walks up to Rill with her maps and plans. She sets them down. "Here are some of my ideas for our fortress, I"ve been talking about it with some of the crew I hope you don't mind. What do you think?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Friday October 25th, 2019 1:18:46 AM
Since Jozhur has confirmed her identify, Terser tips his non-existent hat to Flora and thanks her for conveying the message. It's been such a mad dash around the last few days that it will be nice to take a bit of a break.
He conveys some extra thanks to those that have been directing them in their attempts at good deeds, both for becoming dragons and after. He can only trust the Gods that their future guidance will be so inspired.
thanks Kathy, it's been a blast =D
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Friday October 25th, 2019 5:31:02 AM "We're taking appointments now?" This is certainly news to Tahni. She excuses herself from the table and proceeds to the entryway.
She opens the front door to the house quite slowly "Hi! Can I help you?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Friday October 25th, 2019 2:50:28 PM
Rill is very interested in what Fang proposes for a fortress, and will go over what she is thinking. But mostly because he appreciates Fang taking the initiative on this.
Rill is much more at home aboard a ship and seeing the rest of the Wold. While he appreciates the symbol of a Dragon Consortium fortress, he has little interest staying there much.
---------------------- As for the morning visitor, particularly one that mentions an appointment we never made, Rill is cautious. Perhaps, Brother Engev or Brother Lansel made an appointment, this this person is mistaken. Still, Rill will use his Sense Outsider and Sense Construct abilities, and once Tahni opens the door, he uses Deathwatch to see make sure they are, well, actually alive.
--------------------------- Deathwatch - Range 30'. You instantly know whether each creature within the area is dead, fragile (alive and wounded, with 3 or fewer hit points left), fighting off death (alive with 4 or more hit points), healthy, undead, or neither alive nor dead (such as a construct). Deathwatch sees through any spell or ability that allows creatures to feign death. Sense Outsider - Sense direction and distance to any outsider, fey, demon, devil, or elemental within 1,120 ft., even through solid objects. Sense Construct - Sense direction and distance to any any construct, animated object, or golem within 1,120 ft., even through solid objects.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 152/203 (236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Friday October 25th, 2019 10:08:22 PM
Fang is way to wrapped up in her maps and plans to pay any attention to a visitor at the moment. She flips through the maps again to remind herself of all the details while Rill is checking out their guest; planning has never been her strong suit so she has to work hard at it to keep all her facts strait.
DM Carl - Were we expecting visitors? Friday October 25th, 2019 10:45:59 PM
OOC: Your normally scheduled DM Ken post has been usurped by DM Carl, so that Ken can go play table-top roleplaying on an actual table. He's worked hard and deserves it.
***
The door opens to a somewhat chaotic scene. A young half-elf scoots about, bent over, trying to pick up dozens of spilled rectanges of card stock. He places them into a small metal box. "Well, isn't this just perfect," he says to himself before he realizes the door's been open. He freezes, eyes wide as they meet yours. A small bit of seagull droppings are smattered on the lenses of a pair of thin, wire spectacles. No doubt this is the reason he dropped the card stock in the first place. He hastily removes them and tucks them into an interior pocket on his jacket. Gross...
"Th-th-th-thank you for answering, Miss Wyrmrider. I’m uh, Parnell Ragsby! I’m ahem, here for our .. interview? That we definitely have scheduled for today. I think?"
The man continues fumbling over his cardstock, now scattered all over the docks.
"Oh bother. I need to pick these up. Thanks for your patience!"
He starts chasing down the last of the cardstock.
Skill Checks!
Sense Motive DC 10: Highlight to display spoiler: {The man is telling the truth, or at least thinks he is.} Diplomacy DC 10: Highlight to display spoiler: {Parnell is more than a little star-struck.} Perception DC 18: Highlight to display spoiler: {The card stock has penciled in drawing with vague outlines, but no faces. } Perception DC 25: Highlight to display spoiler: {One card stock has blown itself into a fog nestled corner of the front estate. Parnell is unaware of its location. Perhaps a kind person would point it out to him? }
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Saturday October 26th, 2019 1:54:50 PM
(Don't know how that post popped in again. Oh well. Had intended a similar post to Tahni's, wondering when we got a secretary.)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) d20+20=37 ; Saturday October 26th, 2019 1:59:46 PM
Perhaps being lower to the ground has its advantages, as Terser leans down to pick up the card hidden in a dark corner and hands it back to Parnell.
(Perception 37)
"What is it you have drawn here? Is it related to the interview?"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+3=13 ; Saturday October 26th, 2019 9:37:14 PM "Oh dear" Tahni helps the man collect the cards that litter the ground. Terser has already picked up the runaway one.
"Interview you say? Interesting. Interview for what exactly?" She hands the fallen cards back to him. Tahni has no intention to leave the man on the doorstep "Perhaps you would like to come in and discuss this a little?"
She speaks to the others over the rings "He seems to genuinely think that he is here for an interview. He's also a little star-struck"
-------------------- Sense Motive check vs DC10: Autopass Diplomacy check vs DC10: 13 = Pass Perception check vs DC18/DC25: Autopass
Fang (Mitch) HP: 152/203 (236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Sunday October 27th, 2019 8:23:22 PM
Fang sighs as the man is let in. While she appreciates that they can't just leave him out in the cold, she was trying to get things done here! Regretfully she starts to clean up the table so that the man can spread whatever it is he brought along on it.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 d20+23=33 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+3=14 ; Sunday October 27th, 2019 8:28:46 PM
Aex observes the man as he walks in and begins rambling. (Perception 23 / sense motive 10 / Diplomacy 14)
Despite the fact that he seems to be telling the truth, Aex is just a little curious exactly why he's here...
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Monday October 28th, 2019 12:01:09 PM
Perhaps, Brother Engev or Brother Lansel made an appointment, and this person is mistaken. Maybe the Harbormaster sent him here. Or maybe this is the Tinker in disguise, and the card Terser just picked up has already done it's damage. Or maybe I'm getting paranoid.
Rill regards the new visitor coolly, his tone not quite matching the warmth of his words. "Greetings and welcome Parnell Ragsby. I am Rillett Savenport. With whom did you speak in setting up this interview?"
Parnell seems sincere enough - but people are not always as they seem. Looking at the man, Rill uses Deathwatch to see make sure this creature is, well, actually alive and healthy. Then he will use his Sense Outsider and Sense Construct abilities.
He knows that Tahni's glowing eyes will tell her if the man and his cards are magical or under the effects of magic.
Rill will silently relate what he learns to the others. -------------------- Sense Motive check vs DC10: Autopass Diplomacy check vs DC10: Autopass Perception check vs DC18/DC25: Autopass --------------------------- Deathwatch - Range 30'. You instantly know whether each creature within the area is dead, fragile (alive and wounded, with 3 or fewer hit points left), fighting off death (alive with 4 or more hit points), healthy, undead, or neither alive nor dead (such as a construct). Deathwatch sees through any spell or ability that allows creatures to feign death. Sense Outsider - Sense direction and distance to any outsider, fey, demon, devil, or elemental within 1,120 ft., even through solid objects. Sense Construct - Sense direction and distance to any any construct, animated object, or golem within 1,120 ft., even through solid objects.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Monday October 28th, 2019 6:46:54 PM
Drawn by the commotion, Bralin wanders over, while listening to various reports in his head.
The dwarf regards the newcomer, and waits patiently.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Monday October 28th, 2019 9:22:04 PM
Aex does not partake in the discussion... she never does... but none the less she is intrigued about what is to come...
Jozhur (Brock) d20+23=43 ; d20+23=33 ; d20+27=28 ; Monday October 28th, 2019 9:27:55 PM
Jozhur watches silently from the back of the room, arms crossed. He's not to thrilled about having some ranting person the don't know in their house. The Black Lions certainly have new enemies since joking the Dragon Consortium.
DM Carl - Were we expecting visitors? Monday October 28th, 2019 11:49:10 PM Terser picks up the wayward card and hands it back to Parnell, asking what is drawn on it. A cursory look at the card shows a lightly-drawn outline of a humanoid figure in a dramatic pose. He asks if it's related to the interview.
The question brings a confused look to Parnell's face, but he quickly erases it.
Tahni helps pick up the cards, asking what they're interviewing for as well. She fills her fellow dragons in on his motivations.
Fang has things to do, darnit...
...but she's supposed to be gracious, so she starts clearing the table.
Aexana observes the man. Bralin joins the gathering at the door, taking in the newcomer before he takes any action.
Jozhur's not happy to see the fellow, and watches from the back in an unfriendly pose.
Rill's paranoia rises. If Parnell is a threat, he's an astoundingly cleverly disguised one. Rill introduces himself. Parnell's eyes shine when he starts to talk, but the confused look returns when Rill asks who he spoke with. Rill's various senses fail to detect anything outsiderish or constructed about him, and he's in fine health.
"Begging your pardon, sir Rill, and it is wonderful to finally make your acquaintance, sir." He winces a tiny bit when he realizes he's about to start rambling. "I haven't actually spoken to any of you, but you and I coressponded via letter setting this up." His card stock returned and the box they were in closed, he places them down and feels around in his coat until he finds a rolled up scroll, wax seal already broken. He unrolls it and quickly reads over. "Yes, yes I'm quite sure our appointment was for today.
"Understandable you may not remember, what with your busy schedule. If it's not a good time I completely understand if you need me to return at a later date." He says this, but the poor guy's obviously desperate to keep his appointment with you.
Sense Motive DC 10: Highlight to display spoiler: {Parnell's not being the least bit deceptive about this. He honestly believes he's here on Rill's invitation.} Perception DC 25: Highlight to display spoiler: {That broken wax seal? It's yours.}
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Tuesday October 29th, 2019 4:18:46 PM
Rill relaxes a bit with the man. He looks at the seal and at the "Black Lion" signet ring he and some of the others wear. Same design. Rill was careful to not hand these out to any but those in our party. And he trusts the maker here in town.
Judging from the surprise of everyone at this person's arrival, Rill says, "This is indeed out seal. So, either one of us is sending messages in their sleep, or someone is impersonating us. Let's at least see what we said."
Rill will first cast Detect Magic on the scroll, and if it is magic he will not read it until we determine the nature of the enchantment. Assuming it is in fact not magical, he will open it to see what is says.
-------------------- Sense Motive check vs DC10: Autopass Perception check vs DC25: Autopass
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Tuesday October 29th, 2019 5:32:51 PM
Terser speaks telepathically to the others through the rings. "We did get awfully toasty at our confirmation. Maybe that included sending some strange missives."
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Tuesday October 29th, 2019 6:32:21 PM
"Aye", Bralin says aloud, in response to Terser.
But, other than that, the dwarf continues to stand still, regard Parnell evenly, and wait.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Tuesday October 29th, 2019 7:22:53 PM
Tahni raises an eyebrow at this new development. "Please. Why don't you take a seat while we get to the bottom of this."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 152/203 (236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday October 29th, 2019 7:31:43 PM
At the suggestion of impersonation Fang finally gets that no one was actually expecting this guy. She squints at him suspiciously.
Aex senses nothing wrong with the guy and recognises the Black Lions seal as well... she's been here for quite a while now and she cannot remember anyone writing some letter like that...
"Looks like he's an honest man sent here to meet us... unless some one of us actually wrote that letter it looks like someone else was setting Parnell up...
Aex checks to see if Parnell has any other stuff he was carrying... backpack perhaps? What else has he brought to this meeting??
DM Carl - Were we expecting visitors? Wednesday October 30th, 2019 1:05:22 AM Rill relaxes and asks to see the letter. Parnell eagerly hands it over.
Terser wonders if they agreed to something while toasty at their official dragon party. Bralin agrees it's a possibility, but holds off on taking further action.
Tahni invites the man in. Parnell's eyes positively twinkle. "Oh thank you, miss Wyrmrider! You have my word I'll do you and yours proud!" Parnell makes his way in doors and finds an empty seat. "Will this do?" He looks around. "I'll also require a surface to draw on, of course. A small table, perhaps? I'm not picky!"
Fang gets suspicious when she realizes Parnell was not expected.
Aexana senses nothing shifty about Parnell and inspects his belongings. He's already opened the small bag he came with, showing several pieces of charcoal and graphite. The box he carries just contains card stock.
Rill's first action is to cast detect magic on the scroll, and boy howdy does it radiate some strong illusion magic. It's obviously divine in nature. Though he avoids reading anything, he can't help but notice the penmanship on the scroll matches his exactly.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+31=32 ; d20+12=17 ; Wednesday October 30th, 2019 7:08:00 AM
Well, by all accounts this Parnell chap seems to be on the level.
"What is it you want to draw, friend?"
At this point it could be anything: plans for a superweapon or portraits of the party.
"Hmmm... portraits of the Dragons? That actually would make sense. I bet it's portraits" she thinks to herself.
-------------------------- Perception: 32 + Arcane Sight + Darkvision + See Invisibility Sense Motive: 17[/i]
Fang (Mitch) HP: 152/203 (236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday October 30th, 2019 8:27:34 AM
Fang always has her axe on her. She puts a hand on it just in case the flustered visitor turns out to be a Red Dragon or something. You never know.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 d20+15=22 ; Wednesday October 30th, 2019 11:45:25 AM
Parnell seems occupied for the moment.
"There is a very strong illusory magic on this scroll, and it appears to be my handwriting on a scroll I did not pen. We might want to know what the effect is before we actually read it. I'll try to identify it, but I'm not as good at this as Tahni. Tahni - you want to have a look too?"
Rill will use Detect Magic to try to identify the magic on the scroll. (22, so he would identify up to a 7th level spell effect, or a magic item created by a 14th level caster if it's a permenant item.)
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Wednesday October 30th, 2019 11:46:46 AM
Also, are there any enchantments or magics on this Parnell guy?
(I think it's nice we were able to find a place for him to sit and color while the adults figure out what's going on here.)
:)
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Wednesday October 30th, 2019 5:38:46 PM
Bralin remains still and silent.
His eyes flick from Rill to Tahni to Parnell, as he awaits results of the spellcaster's investigations.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Wednesday October 30th, 2019 9:36:33 PM
This is not going as it is supposed to go... like Bralin, Aex too eyeballs between Rill, Tahni and Parnell...
"Get beside me Leafy... you never know...", Aex sends to her companion. Leafy shuffles as casual as a plants can shuffle through the room.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+32=43 ; Wednesday October 30th, 2019 9:58:50 PM
Tahni nods to Rill and has a closer look at the parchment.
Spellcraft check: 43
DM Carl - Were we expecting visitors? Wednesday October 30th, 2019 10:58:58 PM Tahni wonders what it is Parnell is going to draw. Portraits? Probably portraits.
The confused look returns to Parnell's face, but is quickly replaced with a look of sudden understanding. "I think I see what's happened here," he says as he smiles at Rill. "Perhaps Master Rill meant this as a surprise for the rest of you."
With that, he stands and bows deep. "I am Parnell Ragsby, writer of tales, lifelong follower of the exploits of the Dragon Consortium, and proprietor of the official WoldCo Dragon Consortium Trading Card company. With Master Rill's permission, I am here to chronicle the stories of your rise to prominence, and capture your likenesses for our collectibles."
Master Rill did no such thing, of course. At least not that he recalls.
Fang keeps her hand on her axe. Not friendly, but it's a dangerous world out there. Bralin and Jozhur silently keep vigil as well.
Rill takes in Parnell's announcement, checking him out for enchantments of some kind. He's completely magic free.
The scroll doesn't register as a specific spell, but some divine entity has obviously messed around with it. He still avoids reading it, but can't help but notice something's up. The longer he looks at the script, the stranger it seems. After a bit, the words seem to buzz about the page, and wriggle excitedly under his gaze. Rill is aware, quite suddenly, that while the words are shaking and shimmying faster and faster, the world around them moves slower and slower. Tahni appears to be noticing the same as she peeks.
Finally, after much contorting and shifting, the letters on the page literally fly into the air, and then rearrange themselves on paper.
“Hey Heroes!
You all did a really great job shaking me loose from Pantheon! I mean, not that he’s a BAD boss, but he ain’t MY boss, ya know? Anyways, this Parnell guy has got a good heart, and he loves himself some adventurers! He’s been following the consortium heroes for most of his half-elven life. I figured it would be good for all parties involved for you all to meet, and for your good name to get out there a bit more. You can’t let those cocky Iron Dragons get all the new fans, now can ya?”
That Gimp. What a kidder. Just like that, time snaps back to normal.
If Parnell notices Aexana's plant approaching, he doesn't give any indication.
"So!" starts Parnell. "Let's get started!"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Thursday October 31st, 2019 7:41:38 AM
It sounds like Gimp is in a good mood. Nice. It means the party are getting noticed.
"Capture likenesses? Sounds like portraits to me. Mental high five!" Tahni smiles to herself.
She looks about the others. Most have had the chance to rest, refresh and clean-up. Always good to look your best for a portrait however. Tahni will cast a number of Prestidigitation spells to clean up anyone who wants it, paying particular attention to Terser's beard. "Need you to look your best big brother"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Thursday October 31st, 2019 5:06:18 PM
"Thanks, Sis. I was just about to ask. Think I could do with a rebraiding?"
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Thursday October 31st, 2019 5:20:09 PM
Bralin doesn't move. Not so much as a twitch. He says nothing. He thinks nothing.
And yet, he somehow seems more relaxed than he was a moment ago.
The dwarf waits.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 152/203 (236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday October 31st, 2019 8:23:41 PM
Fang hesitates, uncertain (did the message from Gimp go to all of us or just Rill and Tahni?)
Jozhur d20+35=36 ; Thursday October 31st, 2019 9:29:52 PM
Going to assume the message is passed to all.
Jozhur is less than thrilled with the idea of having his face plastered everywhere. So much for ever beeing discrete without a disguise. He makes himself scarce in the nearest dark corner.
Stealth: 36
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Thursday October 31st, 2019 10:51:09 PM
Rill will cooperate with the picture thing. After all, what could go wrong?
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