DM Mitch Monday April 5th, 2021 7:55:36 AM
As the party starts to get up the next day you have a surprise visitor, Berg from the Sages guild. "Oh good you haven't left yet. We have a client who asked for our help but our efforts proved futile. Perhaps you might have more success, would you be willing to hear them out?"
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Monday April 5th, 2021 9:47:38 AM
Succotash looks at Berg for a moment, does his best to shake the flaming green gnomishes, from the night before, out of his head, then says, "Since it's you and not that stick in the you know where, Dean Winkmann, asking, please come in, and we will see if there is anything we can do to help.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) Monday April 5th, 2021 1:28:32 PM
Pressi continued her daily rituals as Berg entered the room. "Please, tell us what's on your mind."
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Monday April 5th, 2021 5:46:07 PM
"Hi Berg," says Kezzem. "If Dean Winkmann was complaining that someone moved all his furniture by like an inch, I promise it was not me that did. Bliss helped."
Bliss HP152 of 222 AC28 CMD40 | Mookie HP76+13 AC42 | Cayzle Monday April 5th, 2021 10:59:37 PM
"I dreamt I was playing chess by moving giant pieces around on a magic board!" says Bliss, trying to reconstruct yesterday's events after the flaming gnomishes. "And when I woke up, my pillow was gone."
Mookie just puts his head under his wing.
Hobie (Nick T) HP 198/198 AC 37 Touch 23 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells Tuesday April 6th, 2021 1:30:38 AM
"Sure. We've certainly got time enough to come and listen to their request."
Hobie will follow Berg
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40(N/A) CMB 24 CMD 44 HP Tuesday April 6th, 2021 2:49:26 AM
Murphy passed on information to the WLA. He enjoyed touring the city with his wife, his friends. He took exactly one sip of a Flaming Green Gnomish, just so he knows what it tastes like. And does not know if he ever will try another.
"Because you ask, good man, we will listen. And despite his gruff and tone-deaf ways, I still respect the Dean and his pursuit of learning. I just don't take kindly to him insulting my friends. Can we get breakfast there? Or shall we do that before we come over?"
DM Mitch Tuesday April 6th, 2021 6:56:35 AM Succotash looks at Berg for a moment while trying to shake the flaming green gnomishes off. He’s open to hearing what Berg had to say as Berg is not Dean Winkmann. Pressi continues her daily rituals and ask what is on his mind. Kezzem promises it wasn’t all him that moved the furniture in Dean Winkmann’s office as Bliss helped. Bliss explains he dreamt he was playing chess while moving pieces around a giant board. Mookie just hides his head. Hobie says they have the time and follows Berg. Murphy had enjoyed time with his wife and friends. He has precisely one gnomish and is uncertain if he will ever have another. He tells Berg they will hear what Berg has to say and that he respects the Dean despite his gruff ways he just doesn’t enjoy his friends being insulted. He asks if they can get breakfast there or should they eat first.
Berg says, “Yes, well the Dean means well, he just is a little misanthropic. He’s fun at parties once you get a few drinks into him. I apologize for any insult he proffered. Anyhoo, as to your question on breakfast as luck would have it we will be meeting the clients at a Dwarvish restaurant on the Merchant level. Come on.”
The Merchant level is a bustling even at this early hour. Berg leads the party through crowded main streets through eventually a less crowded side street to a moderate sized building carved from stone with a metal roof. The sign on the place is in Dwarvish. Dwarvish: Highlight to display spoiler: {The Melting Pot}
Berg ushers the halflings into the restaurant which is mostly empty aside for a large party of Dwarves on the far side of the restaurant and 2 Dwarves seated at a large table on the near side of the restaurant, looking like they are waiting for someone.
Berg leads you to the table with 2 Dwarves. One is male with a long amber beard, keen grey eyes, and a hook nose. He is wearing fine clothes and a breastplate.
The other is female. She has long black hair, kind green eyes, and a nose resembling a rather large button. She too is wearing finery but no armor.
The male Dwarf calls out, “When you said the adventuring party you were recommending was a bunch of halflings I figured meeting at a restaurant to discuss business would be a good idea. I hope you all are hungry. Well met, my name is Mafrid Steelbeard.”
The female Dwarf says “and I’m Vokwabyrn Smeltshaper. I co-own the Red Rock foundry with Mafrid here. We can discuss business later. I’m assuming you are all hungry?”
The restaurant staff bring out bowls of porridge all around to start with. While everyone is staring on that they then start bringing out plates containing things like a stack of thick flat bread, spicy sausages, large rashers of bacon, eggs scrambled with mushrooms, a potato casserole with a strong yet surprisingly sweet cheese, large stacks of pancakes, and cinnamon rolls.
To drink there is ale, goat milk, coffee or water. The ale and coffee are strong . After everyone has their fill, Madrid says, “Now to business. As Vokwabyrn said we co-own the Red Rock foundry in the Scab. We are a somewhat newer foundry and we are pioneering new techniques of metallurgy. Unfortunately as of late someone has been robbing our shipments of one of our most precious newest alloys. It is a proprietary mixture of steel and mithril that is stronger, lighter and more durable than normal steel but not as expensive as straight mithril. If its use catches on it could revolutionize the industry. Unfortunately we can only produce the alloy in small batches now but there is a decent amount of interest. However, the robberies are delaying orders to our clients and we have to eat the losses. We are a relatively new foundry as we’ve stated. We can’t continue operating in this way. If things keep us as they are we won’t be able to continue to operate. We tried to hire Berg to scry on our missing shipments but he came up empty. He mentioned that your group had just done a great service for the Mage’s Guild and we were hoping that you could help us too.”
Bliss HP152 of 222 AC28 CMD40 | Mookie HP76+13 AC42 | Cayzle Tuesday April 6th, 2021 10:34:19 AM
Bliss bows low upon meeting the dwarves and says in flawless dwarven, "Let us remember the faces of our fathers as we are met in honorable camaraderie. It is a great pleasure to meet you both. I am Bliss, son of Vauhwyt, at your service."
He repeats his words in common and invites his friends to introduce themselves.
Bliss is a merry fellow, very young for a halfling adventurer. He's dressed in bright colors, obviously well bedecked in magical gear. Staff-sling and buckler, but no armor.
At his side is a raven as big as he is (both small), who Bliss introduces as Mookie. The raven is dressed in a crisp white vest and a little white top hat. A bandolier of potion bottles and an amulet shaped like a hand completes his ensemble.
The bird looks at the spread and declares, "Waiter, there's no fly in my soup!"
"It's not a good soup unless there's flies," Mookie says, in an aside, to Vokwabyrn.
Bliss has his mouth too full of bacon to comment.
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Tuesday April 6th, 2021 10:44:10 AM
As Succotash reads the sign, he says, more to himself than anything else, "The Melting Pot, a proper name for a dwarven establishment. This should be good!"
Succotash is a handsome halfling in his mid 30s. He wears green clerical robes over the top of his mithril breastplate. By his side is his trusted friend and battle partner, Valerie. Valerie is a velociraptor that wears mithril breastplate barding, and a pink bow on her head. The pink bow is actually a slotless cloak of protection,
After he is introduced he says, dwarven, "Well met, Mr Steelbeard, and Miss Smeltshaper. You have us figured out, we have been known to put down more food that a band of Minotaurs. if you need help with the bill just ask."
Succotash then goes to town on breakfast, eating his impressive fill of the banquet, making sure to toss Valerie a sausage or five, as well as a few rashers of bacon. As he's eating, he says, "The only people I know who can put out a banquet as good as us halflings are you dwarves! We are the only races I know of that truly honor food and drink!"
After breakfast is over, and the dwarves share their story, Succotash says, "Of course we will help if we can. Do you have any clues at all, or at least can you take us, or direct us to the last known location of the missing shipments?"
Hobie (Nick T) HP 198/198 AC 37 Touch 23 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells Tuesday April 6th, 2021 1:02:38 PM
"If I might be frank Mr. Steelbeard and Ms. Smeltshaper, with all due respect, we are typically used to dealing with potential Wold ending threats. I'm not sure some stolen metals really qualify for our services. I'm by no means the leader of the group, so I don't speak for everyone, but I think as far as pro bono work goes, there are needier people out there in the Wold than your business.
I do have a proposal though, should my friends think it worthwile as well.
We have talked of late about the idea of settling down and founding a new town when we retire. If we should help you, would you repay us by signing a contract to open up a second foundry in our town, which would provide jobs and give the burgeoning economy a boost?"
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) Tuesday April 6th, 2021 4:50:53 PM
Pressi eyes the newcomers but stays silent for the moment. A couple of empty glasses remain near her hand, but she doesn't show any signs of drunkenness.
A lady of almost 30 (but who seems unnaturally, magically younger), she remains adorned in black leather, silver chains and weapons around her waist, a twisted holy symbol of pantheon around her pale neck. She makes a quick glance at the door, where Harper lays more alert than she appears. She makes another glance at her husband Murphy.
Every once in a while she glances down at her holy symbol, and it doesn't take long for her friends to recognize that she's studying the dwarves, looking for lies or something hidden. "And since, as my friend Hobie said, you don't actually need an adventuring party for a handful of thefts, I'll go ahead and take a shot in the dark. Either enough of this metal has been stolen that the thieves can make a weapon... or you've run into some clues that you're not just dealing with bandits. Also, I'm assuming you'd like to keep things quiet."
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Wednesday April 7th, 2021 12:01:31 AM
"It's kind of offensive to think that just because we are halfling we like to eat," says Kezzem as he helps himself to a second serving.
"Oh, your the Mages Guild," says Kezzem. "That makes much more sense. All this time I was wondering what you guys had to do with herbs.
"So we are these minotaurs, and do we have time for desert before leaving?"
Succotash informs Kezzem that he only mentioned minotaurs in jest.
"That's why you should leave the comedy to the professionals. It's too confusing for those of us who don't pay attention."
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40(N/A) CMB 24 CMD 44 HP Wednesday April 7th, 2021 1:24:38 AM
Murphy post 20210406
Murphy thinks on what his friends told him about the dwarfs who tried to take over the Iron Giant toward the end of the giant invasion not that long ago. Followers of Skald. They had seemed evil, despite their protestations to the contrary, or the result of any detection spells. Their actions were wicked by Murphy's count, and that of his friends. Some were clearly evil. Ketia, though, the leader - she may have been technically neutral in alignment - yet allied with evil. And monomaniacal. And she swore some sort of vengeance, did she not? Murphy had tragically been whisked away to another plane just prior to this decisive attempt to take over the Iron Giant - which had nearly succeeded.
Might any of them be tied up in this? No way of telling at the moment.
He takes samples on his plate of this and that. He eats well, but not gluttonously, as he listens to the dwarfs and halflings talk.
Murphy is partial to the dwarves of Glimstone, who let them pass through their land under the mountains to find the passageway to the source required to repower the gems of the Iron Giant. And to Kade, who had initially opposed them when first the Iron Giant had been moving to destroy Humble's Ford. Now Kade works on mushroom planting and harvests, underground tunnels just outside the walls of Sanctuary.
Dwarfs helped Humble's Ford on other occasions.
"It may take strong mettle to make so strong a metal," Murphy quips. "Well met, Mafrid Steelbeard, Vokwabyrn Smeltshaper. My name is Murphy Leafwin Pipewood, a druid, and son of Samell, bard and crafter of toys and musical instruments. Also I am husband of Pressi Silverglove," and he inclines his head toward his dark-haired wife. "I was first leader of Humble's Sword, and Pressi the second - though we've developed into a more egalitarian mishmash of random actors who somehow pull things off with coordination challenging to discern."
"Your aims sound worthwhile. Tell us more, if you will." He reaches into his haversack, and pulls out a scroll. Unrolled, it is a map of the Scab - drawn by himself, with features detailed where he knows them himself, and a more generalized sketch taken from other maps. "For instance, about where might we find your mine on this map?"
DM Mitch Wednesday April 7th, 2021 7:55:47 AM Bliss formally introduces himself to the Dwarves with a greeting in their mother tongue and in common for the benefit of his friends. Mookie makes a joke about there being no flies in the soup. Succotash is excited by the name of the restaurant and also greets their would be clients. Before breakfast he offers to help with the bill for the restaurant seeing as how the halflings of Humbles can eat a lot. After breakfast he offers to help them with their problem and asks if they have any clue regarding the missing shipments. Hobie questions if stolen metals really qualify as something that is on par with the skills of the group. He wonders if there might be needier folks looking for pro bono work and suggests in exchange for their assistance in the matter of the shipments if they’d open up a second foundry in any towns Humble’s Sword founds when they retire from adventuring. Pressi observes the Dwarves while consulting her holy symbol looking for lies or other deceptions. She surmises that either enough of the metal has been stolen to create a weapon or some other clue informs them they aren’t dealing with average thieves and that the Dwarves want to keep things quiet. Kezzem tries a bit of a comedy routine that falls flatly. Murphy thinks back to all the interactions Humble’s Sword has had with Dwarves over time some positive, some negative. He wonders if these new Dwarves had anything to do with the followers of Skald at first but is later reminded more of the Dwarves of Glimstone. He inquires as to where they might find their mine on the map.
Vokwabyrn says to Mookie, “I hadn’t heard that one before.”
Mafrid says to Succotash, “The breakfast is on us. As to any clues well like we said we tried to have Berg scry on the missing shipments and he came up with nothing. Whoever is ultimately behind the theft has some means of obscuring what they are doing with the metal. Furthermore besides whatever is blocking scrying survivors of the raids have informed us that the bandits that attacked them wielded powerful magicks”
Vokwabyrn says to Hobie, “You misunderstand us. We are not looking for charity. We were planning to compensate you for your services, somehow. If you want us to setup a foundry should we have the resources to, in your town, when you found it we are more than happy to have a contract drawn up stipulating this in remuneration for your services in putting an end to the threats to our shipments.”
Mafrid says to Pressi, “I suppose whoever took the shipment does have enough of our alloy to build several weapons depending on the size or possibly one rather large weapon depending on what their designs are for it. With the scrying being blocked who can say? Metal can be shaped for a variety of purposes some of it peaceful some of it violent. As for whether or not we are just dealing with bandits well, do bandits typically wield strong magic or employ means to thwart scrying on what they have stolen?”
Vokwabyrn points out where Red Rock Foundry is on Murphy’s map of the scab. She says, “It is a foundry not a mine. We are supplied by the mines of course, but our operation is concerned with refining the gifts of the Wold not prying them loose from the ground. There is nothing wrong with mining as it is a noble profession but it is not ours. We would like you to come to Red Rock Foundry and see the place for yourselves, maybe look around for anything we might have missed locally and then join a caravan containing one of our shipments as guards. With any luck maybe you can find those responsible on the trail and put an end to their banditry. If you can recover any of the alloy lost in the previous attacks that too would be appreciated but the main focus is on ending the raids. It is possible that what was stolen in the previous attacks has already changed hands so we are willing to write it off considering our scrying attempts have been thwarted. We can cover the losses we’ve sustained thus far but they are starting to have an impact so we really can’t afford to lose the shipment you will be guarding.”
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Wednesday April 7th, 2021 9:36:51 AM "Oh joy, powerful magic users, my favorite. I almost hope Ketia is involved, I have a little unfinished business with her! Not only did she send me to see Gargul, but I lost Miss Piggy in the process!" Turning to Valerie he says, "Don't worry girl, I love you, and your every bit Piggy's equal, and in a fight I think you would mop the floor with her, but I still miss that pig, we had been through a lot together."
Hobie (Nick T) HP 198/198 AC 37 Touch 23 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells Wednesday April 7th, 2021 2:05:50 PM
"I sure do miss that ole pig!"
"If these are indeed powerful wizards or such who are stealing large quantities of your metal, we might indeed have a problem warranting our special talents. Let's look into it, shall we move to your foundry so we can investigate further? Do one of you have the ability to teleport us there?"
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) Wednesday April 7th, 2021 9:27:59 PM
Pressi sniffs at Mafrid's comment. "As a matter of fact, Bandits DO typically carry the means to thwart divinations. I believe they call this magical artifact 'a thin sheet of lead,' found sometimes in places where they work with metals, if I recall."
Pressi takes a sip. "Of course, a bandit that knows magic well enough... I suppose that is a sight rarer. You said that you've been making and selling this material for some time. Any potential suspects thus far? Competitors or disgruntled employees, perhaps? A customer that seemed out of place?"
Religious zealots, Pressi thinks to herself. Still... "We all have our issues with Ketia, and Ketia with us. However, it seems a stretch to assume any particular person on such thin leads. And not to defend her, but this is hardly her M.O. Seems a rather odd tactic for any mage with mind blank, for that matter....
"At any rate, I would be glad to investigate."
Bliss HP152 of 222 AC28 CMD40 | Mookie HP76+13 AC42 | Cayzle Thursday April 8th, 2021 12:28:45 AM
Bliss explains that the party has been to the Scab before, and counts a number of dwarves as friends, and a few as former adversaries.
"That said, I think we would be glad to take on this mission."
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40(N/A) CMB 24 CMD 44 HP Thursday April 8th, 2021 3:38:20 AM
"So, as I understand it, you would want us to come to the Foundry," Murphy begins, "see if security and defenses might be shored up, join in a caravan of one of the shipments, and see what happens. Thwart any attempts to rob the caravan. Recover what has been stolen previously if possible. Seek to ensure the predatory activities do not resume. Does that sum it up?" he asks their hosts.
DM Mitch Thursday April 8th, 2021 8:45:08 AM Succotash (sarcastically?) comments that powerful magic users are his favorite and wonders if it’s someone he knows who killed him once. He misses his old companion
Hobie agrees they miss the old companion and asks if the dwarves will be providing eleportation.
Pressi comments on bandits using lead to block divinations, though concedes them knowing magic well enough to do that is a bit rare. She asks about suspects and doesn’t think Ketia is involved.
Bliss comments they’ve been to the area before.
Murphy summerizes the job.
Vokwabyrn says to Succotash, “I don’t know this Ketia nor why she’d be involved in stealing our shipments.”
Mafrid says to Hobie, “We are artisans, not magic wielders but if you can’t get there yourselves we could arrange for someone to teleport us all there.”
Vokwabyrn says to Bliss, “Welcome aboard.”
Mafrid says to Pressi, “Well we’ve been running for a few years and we started making the alloy more recently. I don’t think any of our customers could be behind it and our employees seem like a good lot. As to our customers well it would seem odd if they stole something they had previously purchased.”
Vokwabyrn says to Murphy, “Pretty much. Like we said recovering what has been stolen is a secondary concern to stopping the attacks altogether.”
Mafrid says, “I’m glad you all agreed to help us. Do we have to arrange for your transport or will you meet us at Red Rock on the morrow?”
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Thursday April 8th, 2021 11:28:41 AM "I can get half of the part there without any problems, using greater teleport, and if you don't mind a oak tree in your front yard, Murph here can easily get the rest of us. Heck we could probably even transport the two of you if you like."
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Thursday April 8th, 2021 6:08:40 PM
"Yuck, Ketia," says Kezzem. "Stupid non-evil dwarf. I'll need to upgrade my daggers if we are going up against something I can't smite my way through."
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) Thursday April 8th, 2021 9:14:20 PM
Pressi nods. "Nevertheless, I do feel an investigation is in order, even if it only yields witnesses. So I'd like full access to the interior and to your files.... minus any information about how the product is made, of course. We will need to check the exterior, figure out how they got in and found the stuff...
"What about Red Rock itself? Any smugglers? Libraries about regional politics? It seems a long shot, and I'd prefer to get to the place as soon as possible, but they have to be using or selling the stuff somewhere."
Most likely, Pressi gets ready to pack.
Bliss HP152 of 222 AC28 CMD40 | Mookie HP76+13 AC42 | Cayzle Thursday April 8th, 2021 11:10:44 PM
Bliss gets all his gear together.
"But wait! What about loot and pay from the artifact quest we were just on? I wanted to buy a Necklace of Adaptation. Didn't we get any loot at all? What's the split."
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Friday April 9th, 2021 12:50:36 AM
"Yeah, what about our loot?" asks Kezzem.
"Hey Bliss, do you think they might have a flying skateboard in the catacombs?"
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40(N/A) CMB 24 CMD 44 HP d20+18=30 ; Friday April 9th, 2021 4:26:41 AM
[It would help if the DMs could show a spot on the Scab's map where the foundry is. Murphy knows some of the areas, has flown over portions. And the party recently walked along the coastline of the Scab. That could help determine a number of things.]
"I should think we will need a few hours in the Catacombs - and it sounds like some of our group needs to discuss a few matters with the Sages. Say, I am a sketch artist. If we can take twenty to thirty minutes, and you could describe the area, say, around the entrance to the Foundry, that will help Succotash and me to handle our transportation on the morrow. Sound good?" If so, Murphy does elicit a description, get a feel for relational positioning of various parts of their compound, adding, making slight corrections as they are suggested. Rolled a 30 for the quality and accuracy of his sketch-map.
[How about someone, or a few of you, take the time to ascertain the value of our acquisitions, and whether the Sages intend to grant further remuneration? My next several days will be action-packed, and I will be absent on Monday.]
DM Mitch Friday April 9th, 2021 7:24:43 AM Succotash says he can transport half the group and the rest can come by oak tree.
Kezz’m doesn’t care for fighting non-evil targets.
Pressi talks about the investigation she’d like to run
Bliss remembers he should spend money from the last adventure Kezzz’m agrees they should shop.
Murphy comments a trip to the catacombs is in order and asks about drawing an outline of the foundry.
Mafrid says to Succotash, “Can the Oak Tree survive the terrain? Furthermore our forges do require fuel, I don’t want there to be offense if someone ends up trying to cut down the oak for fuel. If you really mean to travel by oak and we don’t want there to be misunderstandings we have to let our people know the oak tree that will appear is off limits”
Vokwabyrn says to Pressi, ”You are assuming those who robbed the shipments on the trail actually visited Red Rock at some point? I can get you the records of our sales and the blueprints of our buildings minus the forges as the design of the forges is a trade secret. As to your question about smugglers and regional political libraries Red Rock is not really that big of a place. We have an administrative building, our foundry which contains our forges, dwellings for Mafrid and myself, dwellings for our staff, a general store, a tavern and dwellings for the folks from the general store and tavern. We do not have a political library and are we large enough to warrant smugglers?”
Mafrid says to Murphy, “I can sit with you a bit while you work on your sketches of the area.”
Mafrid stays with Murph while Vokwabyrn pays the bill and leaves.
(OOC: When we wrote the module, we didn’t necessarily pin down the location of the foundry. I have an idea but I want to verify this is a valid location before saying more but you can assume that Mafrid gives you the details you need to accurately get yourselves there magically. Jerry is not feeling well right now and I’m trying to consult the other ACDMs. I will let you know as soon as I can get the location pinned down - Hugh)
The party agrees to meet at Red Rock tomorrow and for the rest of today there are plans to talk to Sages further and go shopping.
Bliss HP152 of 222 AC28 CMD40 | Mookie HP76+13 AC42 | Cayzle Friday April 9th, 2021 9:02:48 AM
Bliss takes his share of the loot and rushes off to the Catacombs.
[OOC: Guys, I'm sorry, I just do not have the bandwidth today to go back through the posts and figure out the loot.]
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Friday April 9th, 2021 10:16:17 AM
Succotash says, "Well the tree would be Murphy's and would be planted by Pressi or myself. There would be no fear of it being cut down while in use for transportation, and after we are done with our task, unless Murph has some opinion to the contrary, what you do with the tree is up to you."
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Friday April 9th, 2021 2:50:24 PM
"If it's a fun tree, maybe you could talk to it," says Kezzem.
Hobie (Nick T) HP 198/198 AC 37 Touch 23 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells Friday April 9th, 2021 2:52:19 PM
Hobie will join Bliss at the catacombs in order to stock up on scrolls and such
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40(N/A) CMB 24 CMD 44 HP Sunday April 11th, 2021 2:48:45 AM
"Thank you for working with me on this, Mafrid. It looks like a good representation to you?" he asks.
"It would be agreeable were the oak tree to be left in place," says Murphy. "Oak trees have their charms and uses, and it can be pleasant to have a good size specimen around as a meeting place, not to mention its beauty. But at minimum, until we finish this project on your behalf, for folks to not harm it is my request. There are a few things I can do to ensure it has the foundation and soil needed to allow it to last."
Murphy catches up to the people heading to the Catacombs.
[Friends - I likely cannot post this Monday. Should be back Tuesday. If someone wants to post on my behalf, that would be good. Just don't turn Murphy into a Kezzem or the like ;-) ]
Bliss HP152 of 222 AC28 CMD40 | Mookie HP76+13 AC42 | Cayzle Sunday April 11th, 2021 11:10:57 AM
Since no one is dividing the loot, Bliss keeps the nonmagical silver and coral necklace he took before, as well as the unclaimed +5 heavy wooden shield of fortification (moderate). That should pay for all his needs.
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40(N/A) CMB 24 CMD 44 HP Monday April 12th, 2021 2:52:48 AM
Murphy must find a source of chocolate, and high-quality coffee, and a good supply of teas - black, green, white if possible. He purchases 5 pounds of chocolate, 5 pounds of coffee, 5 pounds of black tea and a similar amount of green tea, and 3 pounds of white tea.
Murphy shows Succotash the fairly accurate sketch of the foundry he put together in consultation with Mafrid, to help him out with the teleport.
Once everyone has what is needed, the druid prepares for the tree-side of transport - sending a tree (oak) feather token ahead with Succotash, and then casting the spell to take himself and up to five more people (animals) along with. Unless, due to the high-end teleportation facilities available on the Float, there is no need for him to use transport via plants.
DM Mitch Monday April 12th, 2021 7:24:34 AM Bliss takes his share of the loot and rushes off. Succotash explains they’ll bring a tree with them. Kezz’m suggests they could talk to the tree. Hobie goes to stock up on scrolls Murphy comments on the advantages of having an oak tree and requests at the very least it be left alone while they work on the job. Bliss claims some of the loot. Murphy buys some chocolate, tea, and coffee.and consults with Succotash and Manfred on the teleport.
Mafrid hears the opinions of Succotash, Kezzem and Murphy on the Oak before taking his leave.
He says, "Well like I said, I'll talk to my people about the Oak and see to it that it is not touched for the duration of your work with us. I'll also see if I can get them to agree to leave it alone beyond that considering your wishes."
To Hobie in particular he asks, "How does one know if a tree is fun or not?"
He takes his leave of the group and reiterates one more time about the plan to meet Humble’s Sword tomorrow at 9 am sharp at Red Rock foundry.
Looking down at the map that he had updated thanks to Mafrid’s help Murphy sees that Red Rock Foundry is near the Caves of Glimstone to the West. The Caves themselves are a few miles from the Scab/Crescent Valley border.
Shopping trips are had by some in preparation for the upcoming investigation and Pressi spends some time packing.
(OOC: Someone mentioned something about the Sages guild but all everyone seemed interested in was heading to the catacombs. Any interest in anything related to that? Or are you all set and if so in your next post can you detail your travel plans explicitly? Who exactly is teleporting in, who is planting the tree and who is traveling by tree?)
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Monday April 12th, 2021 10:13:08 AM
Succotash takes the feather token from Murphy, and the next morning, after giving Murphy's drawing the once over, He takes Valerie and up to 5 others with him via Greater Teleport. He makes sure to bring Pressi along as one of his passengers, so she can communicate with Murphy that the tree is ready. Upon arrival, He wastes no time planting the feather and watches as a full grown tree emerges in a matter of moments. The cleric then gives Pressi the green light to message Murphy.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) Monday April 12th, 2021 10:56:58 AM
(OOC: I don't think there's any reason re the sage's guild. It didn't seem like we needed to visit for this mission and we tied up stuff with them pretty neatly last mission.)
Pressi is more focused on other issues, and never really makes it to restock. At any rate, there's not much that she needs at the present time. (IRL I don't really have the time or energy for inventory, but I should be able to handle the support.)
To Manfrid, "Wait, I know this one... No, that's mushrooms."
Pressi travels with Succotash as directed, then turns her attention to the surrounding area.
DM Mitch Tuesday April 13th, 2021 7:21:32 AM
Pressi, Succotash, Valerie and 4 others teleport to Red Rock Foundry the next morning. Succotash plants the token Murphy gave him and the rest of the party arrives via tree.
As Mafrid has described the foundry seems to consist of a few buildings. The administrative building which is on the smallesh end for buildings used for this purpose is closest to where you arrived via tree.
Central to the location is the forge, with plumes of smoke ventilating out the multiple chimneys of the building.
On the left side of the area is a tavern with a sign that reads The Mother Lode and on the right what must be the general store. There are several nondescript dwellings spread out around the edges. Two of the dwellings appear larger and more centrally located than the others.
The door to the administrative building opens and Mafrid comes out of it waving in greeting.
He calls out, “I trust you found the place ok?”
Know[Engineering] DC 30: Highlight to display spoiler: {Red Rock Foundry is a smallish foundry. Despite its small size if the mithral steel alloy it is selling ever really took off in popularity it would certainly become a threat to some of its larger competitors considering the fact that it is lighter and stronger and possesses less impurities than normal steel despite its higher cost.}
He points out the forge, the Mother Lode Tavern, General Store and Administrative Building as well as the 2 larger centrally located dwellings as belonging to him and Vokwabyrn.
“So where would you like to head first?” he asks.
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Tuesday April 13th, 2021 10:29:38 AM
Succotash is all for getting down to work, and asks for a tour of the facilities, and to be introduced to the members of the caravan they will be escorting.
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Tuesday April 13th, 2021 12:49:16 PM
"Did we ever get that loot split?" asks Kezzem.
OOC: I'm really busy right now and don't have time to calculate our shares. Can somebody else take care of it this time?
Hobie (Nick T) HP 198/198 AC 37 Touch 23 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells Tuesday April 13th, 2021 4:06:17 PM
Hobie is also eager to get going with the tour and the meetings. He'll follow Succotash and the others.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) Tuesday April 13th, 2021 8:34:49 PM
Pressi first signals Murphy to come.
Not really knowing anything about engineering (or particularly caring), Pressi votes to start at the administrative building, while signaling Murphy to check the perimeter. After that, she moves to go directly to where the special metal was stolen. (If there's time, she hits the tavern last.)
In the meantime, she begins asking basic questions. When and how many times was it stolen, when were the thefts discovered, how many people work at the facility, was there any footprints or broken locks, etc.
She also uses her justicar ability to see if she can spot any tracks.
Bliss HP152 of 222 AC28 CMD40 | Mookie HP76+13 AC42 | Cayzle Wednesday April 14th, 2021 2:18:19 AM
Bliss shows off his new ioun stone, which lets him be an octopus without worrying about breathing.
The slight halfling waves to Mafrid and sticks close to Miss Pressi.
He mentions to Manfrid and his fellow bloodwitch that a retrocognition spell would give some good info at the most recent crime scene, but the 1d10 casting time may make it impossible.
"At the least, we should try a divination." Bliss will cast this if no one else wants to, asking about the criminals behind the missing shipments.
[OOC to our kindly new DMs: Every morning, Bliss (and Pressi?) use the Warding and Shared Spell rituals. Also every morning Bliss casts Heroes' Breakfast.]
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40(N/A) CMB 24 CMD 44 HP d20+26=40 ; d20+43=49 ; Wednesday April 14th, 2021 3:50:38 AM
"Ah, we know this area somewhat - especially Glimstone. Should you ever travel between there and Humble's Ford, like as not you'll see stands of three oaks spread out every so often - at least the ones the giants did not trample." Murphy planted them on the way up on their first trip to that place, and, during party downtimes, has occasionally gone along and cast plant growth on the trees, so that many are maturing much faster than normal.
"Nice ioun stone, Bliss!" Murphy exclaims, pointing to Bliss's acquisition, then points to the pale green prism ioun which circles his head. "I like these little satellites!"
Murphy comments to Mafrid, "If I understand what you've told us, this small Foundry could prove quite valuable, with significant competitive impact from your lighter, purer and stronger steel alloy. More dear than standard steels, less expensive than pure mithril. Anyone with a hankering for more deadly and durable weapons, as well as the defensive value of body armor could be moved to covet the fruit of your labor. Among the candidates for suspects... well, we can get into that once we've seen what you have to show us. Also, know this: We aim to do what is right, especially when someone has brought us on to help them out - with a recommendation from the Sages' Guild. We understand the importance of keeping confidence. Well, most of us do. My father is an inventor and has taught me some things about trade secrets.
"So, I hope you don't mind if we nose around. Of course, you have just invited us to do so. As you all decide what order to take in touring the place, may I have your permission, Mafrid, and Vokwbym's, to do a quick fly over to get the general lay of the land? I can catch up in a few minutes."
He does not want to miss out on touring the various buildings, but Pressi asked him to first check the perimeter, so he is fine with that. He definitely wants to see the forge.
Assuming Mafrid tells him 'yes,' Murphy moves over between two buildings close to each other, transforms into a large air elemental, ascends at 71 mph into the sky ('running' move at 625'/second for 1 minute, up to about 1.1 miles) descends in a more leisurely fashion in a wide circle, and continues his flight downward in a narrowing spiral, pausing when a particular angle looks good to examine, then going ever lower. Closer to the ground, he takes a quick lap to look at the building exteriors from about 20'-50' in the air, and finally settles back to the ground, and to his own size and shape as he moves between two close buildings, changing back into halfling form when out of sight from most angles. He returns to the group - as he will be able visually to keep tabs on which building(s) they have entered and exited. Figure a 10 minute flyover. Pressi gets quick mental notes for items of significance.
Know [Engineering]: 40 vs DC30 - success. Murphy will mentally pass on the spoiler information to Pressi. Perception: 49 - for visual information gathering during his flyover.
DM Mitch Wednesday April 14th, 2021 7:35:34 AM Succotash is ready to work Kezz’m wonders if the loot from last time was split. Hobie is equally ready to start Pressi asks some basic questions about the robbery and prepares to check the perimiter Bliss suggests trying some divinations
Mafrid says to Succotash, “Ah a tour, yes”
To Pressi he says, “The bandits attack along the pass out of the area, never in the same spot. They appear out of nowhere, with overwhelming force, and kill any who resist. Cooperating with them lets the drivers and guards return unharmed. We’ve lost 5 shipments in this way. In each shipment the alloy was kept in several crates on wagons with about a hundred five pound ingots per crate. Each caravan had 6 crates of the alloy. We didn’t have any broken locks or footprints or anything as the thefts occurred off site, in transit. The tavern has a barkeep and servers, The foundry has several smiths and their apprentices, the general store has a staff. The tavern has a few rooms for rent upstairs that our suppliers sometimes rent out. We are provisioned with ore thanks to the miners from Glimstone. "
Bliss casts his divination, the spell appears to succeed he gets this response, “Thieves commissioned to purloin for a generous bounty of coin”
Mafrid says to Murphy, “We invited you out here, do what you think is necessary.” permitting the fly over.
Murphy’s elemental’s eye view allows him to get an appreciation for how the Red Rock foundry is layed out. As Vokwabyrn and Mafrid said this place is a smaller operation with the forge, tavern, general store and administrative building being the key points of interest. The various dwellings are utilitarian in design favoring function over form. He doesn’t really find anything of note in checking the perimeter.
Mafrid leads the way to the Administrative building. It is on the smaller side and it appears that a table has been moved into the waiting room / atrium / entrance way of the small building in preparation for your arrival. Spread out on the table are the blueprints for the foundry and a book of sale that Vokwabyrn promised you at yesterday’s breakfast meeting.
Vokwabyrn stands behind the table. She says, “I’ve gathered the documents you inquired about yesterday. Everything is here.”
Mafrid asks, “Shall we continue the tour or do you want to take some time to look over our records first before we move on. I mean based on Pressi’s priorities the foundry would be left. I can show the loading dock where we transfer shipments to caravans. The next caravan isn’t ready to leave yet but I can get you when it arrives prior to loading as some of the wagons were used in previous shipments that were robbed. If you’d prefer to wait for the caravan I could show you the tavern next if you prefer”
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Wednesday April 14th, 2021 11:04:46 AM
Succotash has no love for documents, or their perusal, so he says, "Lead on my friend!" He then remembers that some of his friends, Murphy and Pressi to be precise do enjoy perusing documents, so he adds, "Unless someone wishes to go over these documents first."
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40(N/A) CMB 24 CMD 44 HP Wednesday April 14th, 2021 1:03:19 PM
"So, 500 pounds times six is 3,000 pounds, and that times five is 15,000 pounds of mithril-alloyed steel," Murphy calculates. "What is your valuation on a pound of the alloy?"
"I'll look over the documents, if anyone wants to join me in that, please," volunteers the druid.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) Wednesday April 14th, 2021 8:59:40 PM
Pressi nods. "Simple smash and grab, got it. Interesting that they never vary their techniques. Sounds more like overconfidence than intel, and I'm guessing this is the first time you've beefed up security. I need to know who else knows that you've hired us."
She thinks a little bit. "If you know the main play, than security should be trivial. I leave it to the group whether we want to show up with some flash, though some simple traps and a few ambushes should be all it takes, spellcasters or not. However... If we happened to FAIL in this mission, if they were to grab a special box or a hostage, for example, then we could follow them back to the lair and find out who hired them. Otherwise, we'd need to take prisoners ourselves."
In response to Murphy, "Yeah, I didn't need a degree in engineering to start suspecting competitors. But I wonder also if a disgruntled employee is involved." Which is part of the reason she takes some time to review the records. "Any strange behavior from any employees? I assume that you vary the delivery times and maybe the routes. But there may be a smaller number of employees who can pass that information on..."
Pressi pauses for a second. "You said that they come out of nowhere. Did you mean that literally or figuratively? Because it could be either way, so I figured I should check."
Pressi is in favor of waiting for the caravan first. She's also leaning towards something more subtle than announcing there's a new sheriff in town.
Hobie (Nick T) HP 198/198 AC 37 Touch 23 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells Thursday April 15th, 2021 5:29:36 PM
“I want to examine the wagons that were robbed, it might be helpful to see exactly how the operation went down. Find the weaknesses, see if it’s possible it was an inside job”
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Thursday April 15th, 2021 7:11:46 PM
"Oh no, math! Help! I'm being attacked by numbers!"
"Um, maybe we should send out a decoy wagon and get a look at what we are dealing with?" suggests Kezzem. "Then we can prepare our ambush tailored to these bandits."
DM Mitch Thursday April 15th, 2021 7:40:41 PM Succotash says to lead on unless the rest of the group is eager to dive into paperwork. Murphy does some math to figure out how much was stolen and volunteers to look over papers. Pressi finds the robber’s technique interesting and thinks security should be trivial as long as a hostage isn’t taken. She asks about competition or disgruntled employees and literal or figurative appearing out of nowhere. Hobie wants to look at the wagons. The Kezz’m suggests a decoy wagon to spy what they’re dealing with.
Mafrid says to Murphy, “Each pound is worth approximately 24 gold with each ingot valued at 120 gold. This is a very fair price when you consider mithral typically adds 500 gold per pound to the cost of making an item, granted our steel / mithral alloy isn’t as light as mithral alone is but it is a higher quality grade than normal steel.”
Murphy and Pressi review the documentation and the only unusual thing they find in the blue prints or book of sale is that payments from the Red Rock Foundry seem to be made slightly more frequently to Thirmid Deepmantle of the Deepmantle Hold of the Black Dwarves Clan than other suppliers the foundry uses with some of the more recent payments being made in advance of the corresponding delivery of ore being purchased from him.
Vokwabyrn says to Pressi, “Well the Sages guild was the first serious attempt at help we got. We tried to petition the Black Dwarf clan for assistance but being as we are Independent the price they demanded for their help was too steep. Essentially if we were to accept their help then Red Rock foundry would become a Black Dwarf operation beholden to one of their holds and we would have been adopted into the clan. Sure, we would have gotten security but at the cost of losing our autonomy.”
Mafrid says to Pressi, ”As to the behavior of our employees, well we haven’t noticed anyone acting strange but you are free to talk to them if you prefer. I can take you to the foundry, tavern or general store and make introductions. We can also get you our employee records if you’d like though it might take a little time to get everything together. I can continue the tour while Vokwabyrn gets those records for you. Also regarding the attacks on the Caravan, from what we can gather the answer to your question is literally, supposedly one second no one is there and the next there are knives at people’s throats.”
Mafrid says to Succotash, ”Where would you like to go next?”
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) Thursday April 15th, 2021 9:22:27 PM
Pressi listens carefully, but it's clear that she's putting the pieces together. "And I'm beginning to guess that there might be other ways Red Rock becomes a Black Dwarf Operation. Say, if you can't continue making these payments? We might need to find this Deepmantle and ask a couple of questions."
She raises an eyebrow at the "sudden appearance" description. "I'm beginning to see why you began to suspect magical play."
As for the records, "I'm willing to wait for a while and I'm not much of a tour participant. But I think I could use myself a drink from the tavern.... I'd prefer if you didn't introduce us as security, just in case. Were you by any chance planning to hire more drivers or personnel? Bringing on more customers?"
After hearing Kezzem, "That... is a really good idea. Like, suspiciously so. Who are you and what have you done with our Paladin?"
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40(N/A) CMB 24 CMD 44 HP Friday April 16th, 2021 1:39:40 AM
Murphy post 20210415-b
"So the amount of mithral is less than five percent of the alloyed metal." Murphy makes some rough calculations. "Perhaps 1/40th to 1/25th of the total? As it also seems likely you mix, besides iron and mithral, some other element or elements to make the right blend to ensure desired characteristics."
Am going to assume that Bliss told us the results of his divination. "Potent thieves are commissioned to steal in exchange for hearty payment. Yes. Who are the commissioners?" He thinks on the books, and Pressi's queries.
"Yes, please Vokwabryn, we would appreciate that. Meanwhile, I would love to see the Foundry itself."
Hobie (Nick T) HP 198/198 AC 37 Touch 23 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells Friday April 16th, 2021 8:03:49 AM
Hobie heartily agrees with Kezzem's thought. "I think a decoy would be a great idea. It would be great to get a real idea of what we are dealing with, we could probably take a hostage and get more information.Also, my gut tells me that it's these Black Dwarf guys who are responsible. They wanted an excuse to try to take over Red Rock, and it's possible that they are even now studying the stolen wares in an effort to replicate them."
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Friday April 16th, 2021 9:32:01 AM
Succotash urges his friends not to jump to conclusions, saying, "Just because the Black Dwarf group may seem suspicious, doesn't mean they are to blame. Remember the majority of dwarves, though obviously not all, are a goodly sort who value law and order. Jumping to conclusions can lead to places we don't wish to go. That said, though a pint sounds marvelous, I would love to see the foundry first. Oh and I too like the decoy idea."
DM Mitch Friday April 16th, 2021 8:15:28 PM Pressi wonders if the black dwarves are plotting to take over, acknowledges the possibility of magic in play, and decides to go get a drink. She requests they not be identified as security and is surprised at Kezzem’s idea. Murphy comments on the make up of the ore and wonders about who might be paying the thieves before asking to see the foundry. Hobie thinks a decoy would be a good idea and seconds the thought that the black dwarves might be behind things. Succotash urges the group not to jump to conclusions too early.
Mafrid says to Hobie, “I can take you to the loading docks and you can see the types of wagons involved when the caravaneers get here. We work with a few different folks but I believe the group we have you traveling with was robbed before. I don’t know if they will bring the same wagon on this trip. I would presume so.”
Mafrid says to The Kezz’em “Do what you think is necessary but you will have to get a decoy wagon from somewhere or make one to pull off your plan. People come from elsewhere to pick up shipments, we don’t have wagons and drivers sitting around to be used for such purposes.”
Mafrid says to Murphy, “Yes there are other metals in our alloy besides Mythral and Steel. The exact combination is a proprietary secret. I can most certainly take you to the foundry next, though.”
Vokwabyrn says to Pressi and Hobbie, “Thurmid Deepmantle is an old friend who just happened to ask if we could start paying him up front for ore shipments sometimes. I didn’t think it was an issue at that time as he made the request prior to the robberies. I do not think he had nefarious motives in making this request of us though nor that he’d betray years of friendship that goes back to when we were children. He said he needed money but he didn’t want to be a beggar and we told him we could order more shipments of ore from him and pay for some in advance if that would help him. “
Mafrid adds, “The arrangement between Thurmid Deepmantle and us goes back before the ore shipments started being robbed. I really doubt he had anything to do with this. Do you want me to escort you to the tavern and drop you off before I take the others to the forge, not introducing you then or are you going to go for a drink on your own? I suppose there is nothing stopping a traveler of the Scab stopping at the mother lode for a drink if you would prefer to not be associated with us at this time. I don’t think the Black Dwarf clan is so unscrupulous to be behind this but I could be wrong. I doubt my old friend is involved either, but you’re the experts.”
Manfrid and Vokwabyrn nod along in agreement at Succotash’s comments.
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Saturday April 17th, 2021 1:20:40 AM
"What? I have lots of ideas, some of them are bound to be good!"
"Wait, I've got an even better idea! Maybe we could be on the 'decoy' wagon and pretend be mushroom farmers, and they'll be like 'We're sorry, we thought you were dwarf ore shippers,' and we could be like, 'No problem, would you want to buy some mushrooms?' and they would be like 'Of course we would like to buy some mushrooms' and then we sell them some mushrooms and....wait, that's not it, oh yeah, we instead say 'Surprise!' and I can be like stab-stab-stab and Hobie can be all shoot-shoot-shoot, and Bliss can be all 'I'm an octopus now' and Murphey will turn in to an elemental and Press...can do whatever magic stuff Press does."
OOC: And...he's back.
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40(N/A) CMB 24 CMD 44 HP Sunday April 18th, 2021 11:13:57 PM
"Let's go to the Foundry," suggests Murphy.
DM Mitch Monday April 19th, 2021 9:36:37 AM
Pressi heads to the Mother Lode tavern while Mafrid escorts the rest of Humble’s Sword to the forge.
At the Mother Lode Pressi is greeted by an enthusiastic buxom tavern wench. “What can I get for ya, love?” She asks as she notices the halfling enter the tavern.
----------------------------------
Meanwhile at the Forge Mafrid has opened the main doors and is starting to introduce you to some of the forge workers.
The first dwarf Mafrid introduces you to has a bushy black beard and a long apron. Mafrid says, “Everyone, I’d like you all to meet Forgemaster Novid Coalhelm.
To the black bearded dwarf Mafrid says, “Novid, this is Succotash, Murphy, Hobie, Kezz’m and Bliss. These kind heroes have agreed to look into our little problem and before we send them on their way guarding the latest shipment they volunteered to take a look at our organization and improve operational security in general. “
Novid said, “I’m sure if you were hired by the boss then you guys are good. I’ll be happy when we can put this behind us and we don’t have to repeat the same order multiple times for a given order.”
While the party is getting to know Novid another dwarf enters the room from a door that leads deeper into the forge. This dwarf has a grey beard and asks, “What’s going on, boss?
Mafrid says to the new Dwarf, “Vokwabyrn and I think we finally found the solution to our problem with lost shipments. These fine halflings are helping us out. Hopefully they’ll put a stop to the robberies for good. Before they leave with the caravans though I invited them to take a look around here first to help beef up security.”
Mafrid introduces the new Dwarf as Steelsmith Botheal Steelbraid.
Mafrid says to Botheal, “How is Aden? Seems like it has been a while since I’ve seen your wife.”
Botheal says, “She’s fine. She’s just been tending the hearth. I’ve got a lot of work to get back to. It was nice meeting everyone.”
Sense Motive : 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Botheal seems a little nervous at the prospect of outsiders poking around or maybe it was the mention of his wife by Mafrid}
Mafrid shows you around the complex of the forge. You see the smelters, hammers, anvils, typical things you find in a metal works.
He caps off the tour by stopping at the loading bay. A number of crates have been piled up in anticipation of the upcoming caravan.
Mafrid says, “And this is the loading bay. We will open the doors when the caravan gets here and load. Is there anything else you’d like to do before we rejoin Pressi at the tavern?”
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells d20+17=23 ; Monday April 19th, 2021 10:38:40 AM
Sense Motive: 23
Succotash quickly catches on that Botheal is a bit nervous and quickly says, " Don't worry Humble's Sword is on the case!" He isn't sure what to think about his behavior, and makes a mental note to mention it to his friends later.
When the tour is over, he is more then happy to join Pressi at the tavern.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) Monday April 19th, 2021 9:48:53 PM
Pressi nodded as she listened to the dwarves. "I meant no offense, of course. And I certainly hope that your friend isn't involved. But you hired us to find the thieves and you have to be prepared for what we actually find.
"At any event, Succotash is right. We have a motive and a few connections but no actual proof. I still believe, however, that a bunch of bandits, magical or not, can't simply pull this off unless someone has been providing information. Until I see a scrying sensor..."
Pressi stops to look around them, and briefly considers mind blank. "Until then, I'm going to keep digging for possible suspects, best friends or not."
---------------------
Pressi smiles at the wench as she slides up to the bar. "Just a couple of ales to start. Might have to start riding soon."
After dropping some coin, Pressi scans the room to take note of who else is in the tavern before turning back to the wench. "Speakin' of, I might be looking for work at this factory. Need a bit of coin before I pass on to the next town. You hear of any rumors that they need a driver?"
If she can get the wench to talk about the thefts, she expresses some surprise. Eventually, she asks some questions about whether drivers (or rich strangers) show up at the tavern. She also asks if anyone talks about delivery times or routes when they come in,
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Tuesday April 20th, 2021 1:31:01 AM
"Sure thing, once we find these culprits Murphey will give them a stern talking to," says Kezzem. "And if that doesn't work, well, you don't happen to know where we could find some stirge cages around these parts?"
"What? I was just asking!"
DM Mitch Tuesday April 20th, 2021 7:57:49 AM Succotash tries to reassure Botheal. Pressi explains her thoughts on potential moles in the operation and moves on to the bar where she starts talking about work here. Kezz’m promises to give the bad guys a good talking to and maybe put them in cages if more is needed.
At the Tavern:
Pressi looks around. The tavern is slow at the moment but there are a few Dwarves scattered around the room eating and/or drinking but Pressi is alone at the bar save for the wench on the other side.
She accepts Pressi’s coin, pulls her a pint and answers, “Well I don’t know if they need drivers or not considering Mafrid and Vokwabyrn seem to like to hire others to do the deliveries and they seem to always have their own people and enough of them, but with the robberies there might be work to be had as a guard. I don’t know what your skill sets are but we could use some help here in the kitchen and I think they have an opening at the general store as well if you’d rather do that instead.”
When Pressi presses her about drivers or rich strangers she says, “Sometimes the caravan folks stop in and have a bite before they head out. You hear chatter so sometimes they do discuss the job at hand and are talking shop while others work seems to be the furthest thing on their minds. As for rich strangers, well I don’t know about strange, but when the miners and other suppliers come into town, dropping their ore shipments or other supplies off they sometimes spend some of their bounty here before heading on their way but after a while they cease being strangers.”
--------------------------------- At the foundry and then to the tavern:
Before he left Botheal did not seem comforted by Succotash’s assurances.
Mafrid says to Kezz’m, “I don’t think stirges are native to this climb. I thought you were a paladin not a comedian. Probably best not to quit your day job.”
Mafrid escorts the rest of the party to the tavern but does not go in himself, remembering how Pressi did not want to be introduced as security. He says to the halflings before taking his leave, “Vokwabyrn should have those personnel files by now, if you’d care to return to the administrative building when you are done here.”
Upon entering the tavern you see a few dwarves seated at tables eating and drinking and a buxom tavern wench talking with Pressi at the bar. She notices the 5 halflings enter the place and says to Pressi, “We don’t get so many halflings here usually. I’ll be right back.” She leaves the bar, greets you all and asks, “A table for five? Right this way.”
She settles you in at a corner table and takes your orders.
The tavern starts to fill up with more dwarves. It appears that it is now lunchtime and the workers are starting to shuffle in.
You notice Botheal seated alone at a nearby table.
Perception 25: Highlight to display spoiler: {Is it your imagination or does the tavern wench like to linger at his table longer than others}
(OOC: what else would everyone like to do at the tavern? Gather information? Ask questions? Talk to nearby worker dwarves? Something else?)
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Tuesday April 20th, 2021 10:29:10 AM
Succotash easily notices the special attention that the serving wench gives to Botheal (+35 perception). Realizing that Pressi may wish to appear a loner, Succotash walks over to the bar and says to her, "Strange seeing another halfling in these parts, would you like to join us? I mean, if you prefer the company of others, who am I to judge, but you're welcome to join us."
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Tuesday April 20th, 2021 12:15:36 PM
Kezzem whispers to Succo: "Is my day job being a paladin or being a comedian?"
Kezzem will get a table for the group.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) d20+18=29 ; Tuesday April 20th, 2021 9:40:25 PM
Pressi thanks the barkeep for the information. "I'll keep that in mind, Miss... sorry, don't think I caught your name. Anyway, many thanks.... These robberies, they any violent? Because I got to tell you, I ain't much built for wrestling anyone."
Pressi stops as the rest of the group comes in. In response to the bartender, she shrugs. "If they're mushroom farmers, you may want to give them a wide berth. Little bit of halfling humor."
As the wench deals with the rest of the group, Pressi tries to mage hand an apron or lock of hair from the back of the bar (for scrying later)(sleight of hand 29 to hide what she's doing). She also notices the connection with Botheal (no fail) but doesn't really know what to do with it. She also uses a few rounds of remote viewing (audio) to see if she can overhear any conversations.
At Succotash's invitation, "Thanks but I've got to tell you up front. If you're hitting on me, I'd have to be a whole lot drunker than I am now.... Thirty, maybe 45 minutes. If you're recruiting me instead, it's at least an hour and a half."
Bliss HP188+13 of 188 AC28 CMD40 | Mookie HP87+10 AC42 | Cayzle (by Kim) 2d8=13 ; 2d8=10 ; Wednesday April 21st, 2021 3:35:51 AM
Bliss in the tavern has a little stone of sorts flying around his head - kind of like what Murphy has orbiting his head, too. "I like this, because it distracts people, and makes me harder to hit, I think." He looks around the tavern. "Is it polite to wear one inside, though?" he questions himself.
Mookie stares at the buxom wench. He says in Bliss's mind, "Hey, Rocky, how much do you want to bet that barmaid over there is spillin' the beans to the robbers?"
Bliss looks over at her for a moment. He holds up his hand to get the wench's attention. "Yes, ma'am. Do you have fried turnips available? Or potatoes?"
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40 CMB 24 CMD 44 HP 196+8 d20+43=55 ; d20+32=41 ; 2d8=8 ; Wednesday April 21st, 2021 4:01:59 AM
Murphy has paper and pen out, and is jotting down notes, conjectures on the information they have been gathering in the Auran tongue, with a mixture of elvish and halfling script. He has been writing during his entire adventuring career, and is able to do so without having to look down at the page more than once in a while. He keeps his eyes and ears out. He has excellent peripheral vision. Murphy is a perception machine. He notes people's styles of speech, clothing worn, subtleties of expression, imprints on the clothing of what may be hidden underneath, social interactions, apparent ranking within the social groups.
He checks out Pressi's thoughts from time to time, and shares his with her.
Perception: 55. He notices. A lot. Sense Motive: 41 - Why are the 'wench' and Botheal interested in each other. What does she hope to gain from him? Murphy is not quite as perplexed about what he might hope to gain from her. Forgot to roll for Heroes' Feast: 8 temp hp
DM Mitch d20=11 ; Wednesday April 21st, 2021 8:24:42 AM Succotash pretend not to know Pressi, not knowing what she’s planning. The Kezz’m wonders if his day job is being a comedian or a paladin. It probably depends on what he gets paid more for. Pressi thanks the wench and asks about the robberies and comments on halfling humor. She snags a lock of the wench’s hair and plays along with Succotash pretending they’re strangers. Bliss wonders if the stone is polite indoors, wonders if the barmaid is talking to the robbers, and makes an order. Murphy is very observant and takes a lot of notes.
The tavern wench says to Pressi, “The name is Dinna. Well met. And what is yours if you don’t mind me askin’?”
In response to the question about the robberies being violent she says, “From what I hear only if the caravaneers resist.”
In response to the quip as the other halflings enter the establishment, “You’ll have to explain the mushroom farmer joke to me, later.” she replies as she heads off to deal with other customers.
Dinna does not notice Pressi gather a lock of her auburn hair. (Perception: 24) She’s too intent on taking Bliss’ order. ”Of course we have that. Which do you want, or are you going for both?”
When Pressi uses remote viewing (audio) to overhear conversations she picks up the following snippets:
From a table of 2 Dwarves, Highlight to display spoiler: {“ Dwarf 1: “...and then I said, ‘Miner? I barely know her?’ Ah hah hah hah” Dwarf 2: “ah hah hah, that’s a good one. Did you hear the one about the man with a wooden leg named Smith...” }
From a table of 3 dwarves Pressi(remote viewing) : Highlight to display spoiler: { Dwarf 1: “What is Botheal doing sitting there alone? Is he too good for us, his fellow forge workers?” Dwarf 2: “I think Dinna has something to do with it. I hear he is cheating on Aden with her.” Dwarf 3: “That is such a horrible rumor, Gloin and hard to believe to boot.. I heard him talking with the boss today, about Aden and she is such a devoted wife, I doubt he could do that to her.” }
Botheal and Dinna, one of their conversations in passing Pressi(remote viewing) : Highlight to display spoiler: { Dinna, “So what time do you get off work today, love?” Botheal, “The same time I do everyday, but don’t worry I’ll swing by for my customary end of the day pint before heading home.” Sense Motive 19 - see outside spoiler text block 1 if you succeed Dinna, “You’d better. I’ll even make it a barrel aged one if you want, seeing as how hard you work. You deserve it.” Sense Motive 14 - see outside spoiler text block 2 if you succeed }
Pressi’s outside spoiler text block 1, tied to sense motive 19 Highlight to display spoiler: { “customary end of the day pint” is code for some meeting arrangement between the 2 of them }
Pressi’s outside spoiler text block 2, tied to sense motive 14 Highlight to display spoiler: { “barrel aged one” seems to imply things could be made longer by Dinna’s actions towards Botheal today as opposed to a shorter normal engagement. There also seemed to be a lot of emphasis on Botheal deserving this treatment }
From another table of 2 Dwarves: Pressi (remote viewing) : Highlight to display spoiler: { Dwarf 1: “...Wait, what? Forgemaster Novid makes how much?” Dwarf 2: “He’s certainly worth it. He’s one of the most skilled smiths I’ve ever seen and he’s probably a large part of the reason why this place is so successful or at least it was before the robberies. As I was saying his salary is 12 thousand gold pieces a year and for some reason that still isn’t enough. I heard him asking Mafrid for an advance the other day.” Dwarf 1, “You know he had to go before Holder Deepdelver for his various debts? I wonder if this is related” Dwarf 2, “You don’t say. You think you know a guy…” }
Despite how busy she is, Murphy notes that Dinna steals more than a few glances Botheal’s way and goes out of her way to pass by him often. Highlight to display spoiler: { he’s pretty sure those glances and actions are romantic in nature, and the feelings seem mutual.. It’s a bunch of small things both do nothing overt to draw attention to their silent flirtations, but it’s definitely there if a skill observer is looking for them as he is.}
The ale served at the Mother Lode is cold and strong and the food is tasty.
(OOC: Anyone else want to do anything else at the tavern? Those requested records are waiting at the administrative building)
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Wednesday April 21st, 2021 11:15:09 AM
Succotash answers Kezzem, "I think your official title is paladin, which would make that your day, and sometimes night, job, unless you make more as a comedian then as an adventurer"
Succotash acts shocked, and stutters a bit, "Well, well well, Miss, I was simply offering an invitation to join us halflings, we may be looking to recruit, but the offer was simply to join us for a pint, and a bite to eat."
After a quick bite to eat, and a pint or two, Succotash is ready to head back to the admin office.
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Wednesday April 21st, 2021 4:01:37 PM
"Actually, after business expenses, I don't seem to make much money doing either," says Kezzem.
"Hold on, let me check something Pressi gave me. He pull's out a sheet with various numbers and descriptions of abilities. Let's see here, I'm trained in Perform...oratory? And it's only a plus 7? Wow, I could have sworn it was comedy. No wonder my jokes keep bombing. I'm going to have to fix that next time we 'level up' as Pressi puts it. Now if I could only find some steps so I could go up a level...."
Hobie (Nick T) HP 198/198 AC 37 Touch 23 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells Wednesday April 21st, 2021 5:11:31 PM
Hobie will excuse himself to the restroom and while there, activate his ring of invisibility. He’ll go near Botheal and look for a loose beard hair on his clothes or something for scrying and then he’ll just linger near Botheal for a bit, listening.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) d20+25=45 ; Wednesday April 21st, 2021 9:31:45 PM
(Bluff Nat 20)
Pressi smiled. "Yamyra," she told the barkeep. "A pleasure to meet you, Dinna. Not much for sticking around, but... I am beginning to take a shine to this place. Who knows, I think you might get that mushroom joke explained fairly soon."
She frowns at Dinna's comment, wondering how many times people tried to resist.
As she listens in, a few leads begin to pick up, though some of the names are unfamiliar. An underpaid Forgemaster, a love triangle with a couple of loose ends, and... well, Pressi doesn't know who a Holder Deepdelver is but she's pretty sure she knows the clan.
(No fail on the sense motives but I might need some roll to keep Pressi from stabbing herself in the ear.)
After messaging Murphy with this stuff and getting his own notes, Pressi messages him that he's not going to like her next move but he might understand at this point.
After a couple of pints, she calls Dinna over, pretending to be more drunk than she is. "I know I'm asking a lot but I did have one more question. This general store..."
Pressi takes her wedding ring out of her pocket.
"Does it buy jewelry? I'd throw it in the nearest lake but I need the cash."
----------------
Remote Viewing: 4 rds
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40 CMB 24 CMD 44 HP 196+8 Thursday April 22nd, 2021 4:34:06 AM
Murphy 'accidentally' drops his pen on the floor when Pressi makes her move to inquire about selling her wedding ring. He can't trust his own face to conceal his consternation, yet his heart trusts in his wife. He manages to cover over by feigning irritation at having to crawl under the table to fetch the writing instrument.
The druid decides it may be prudent for him to go elsewhere and gather what information he may. Well, to the administration building, then, to review the records.
Bliss HP188+13 of 188 AC28 CMD40 | Mookie HP87+10 AC42 | Cayzle (by Kim) Thursday April 22nd, 2021 4:36:43 AM
"Ah, both please, then, turnips and potatoes, and some good sausage, and has fresh bread been baked today? And what is on your pies menu, or other desserts of you're short on pies this day?" Bliss asks.
Mookie says, "Sheesh."
DM Mitch Thursday April 22nd, 2021 8:15:04 AM Succotash comments on Kezzem’s job and that they were just inviting Dinna to join them for a pint. Kezz’m claims he doesn’t make much money doing either and then breaks the forth wall. Hobie goes all Bilbo on Botheal to steal some of his hair. Pressi wonders about sticking around and if she’ll end up having to stab herself in the ear from all these rumors she’s hearing. She pretends to get drunk and offer to sell her wedding right. Murphy drops his pen and wonder’s what his wife is up to. Bliss makes a large order of food.
At the Bar:
Dinna does not seem to detect Pressi’s subterfuge with the false name or if she does she isn’t letting on.
When asked about the general store she says, “ They might. Though they are not a pawn shop, then again dwarves do appreciate metal working, not sure about a halfling sized ring though, but you could try. If you want to try they are just on the other side of forge. You can’t miss it.”
The Rest of the Party:
Hobie is able to find a hair on the overcoat Botheal hung on the back of his chair. Hobie notices that Dinna, the serving wench certainly seems to come round Botheal’s way a lot and when she brings him ale she spends more time than she does with the average customer. Other than that Botheal eats alone, silently.
Dinna says to Bliss, “You halflings sure put away a lot for people so small. I mean no disrespect, everyone likes a big eater at least in the hospitality industry. Good for business you understand. As for desert, well we have custard pie. I’ll see you get a large slice, lad.”
Meals are had, banter is exchanged, 4th walls are broken, some snooping is done and then finally the party minus Pressi and perhaps Hobie (OOC: are you coming back from the bathroom when the others go to leave or staying invisibly on Botheal?) proceed back to the administration building.
Vokwabyrn and Mafrid greet the party at the same table they did last time only in place of the bill of sale are a number of file folders bearing the names of various employees. There is also a ledger that tracks wage payments made.
Vokwabyrn says, “I put together everything we had on our employees. Where is Pressi though? Wasn’t she the one most interested in this?”
(OOC: you are free to make whatever checks you deem appropriate as you peruse the documents; we will interpret the results)
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Thursday April 22nd, 2021 10:30:45 AM
Succotash takes one look at the pile of documents and says, "Here you go Murph, Have fun perusing all these documents!"
Hobie (Nick T) HP 198/198 AC 37 Touch 23 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells Thursday April 22nd, 2021 3:06:36 PM
Hobie will head to the bathroom and go visible again, then return to his group as they leave the bar
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) Thursday April 22nd, 2021 9:14:34 PM
Pressi was hoping for... really anything besides a straightforward response. Some sign of emotion, a larger opening for bonding. At this point, though, the seed had been planted.
Having gotten some ideas, and fairly certain that hanging around the bar would prove fruitless, Pressi "stumbled" out of the bar after saying some public goodbyes and appropriate one liners.
From there, Pressi began to do some of the following things.
First, she attached the lock of hair and her scrying mirror to Harper, and messaged Murphy to tell Bliss to intercept it. She told Murphy of the rendezvous and figured Bliss could perform the scrying to follow her.
Second, she messaged Kezzem to meet her at the general store, got into a set of reassurances that she isn't going to sell the ring, and told him to pull the files of Botheal, Aden, and Novid. She asks Murphy to ask about Aden's disappearance and about Holden Deepdelver. She also sends her apologies for missing the files tour after all, and tells Kezzem he can grill the shopkeeper about this or any other rumors or major purchases.
Before making her way to the general store, Pressi sneaks her way to whatever passes for a loading dock or where the caravan is about to leave. Using Hide in Plain Sight and a change in outfit glammer (to the forge's uniform), she decides to see if anyone is lurking about and tries to get a better idea of how the caravan is set up. There's also a quick check for clues before anyone else arrives.
Bliss HP188+13 of 188 AC28 CMD40 | Mookie HP87+10 AC42 | Cayzle (by Kim) Friday April 23rd, 2021 6:14:11 AM
"Custard pie? Oh, yes, a large slice would be perfect!" Bliss tells Dinna. "Sometimes I don't eat much, but where the food is good, I must take fair samples, right!?" He enjoys the meal, and leaves a tip.
When Murphy lets Bliss know that the big cat has something for him, he looks for Harper, and takes the mirror and lock of hair.
"So this is a cloak and dagger and hair and mirrors operation, eh, Boss?" Mookie comments. "With a cat courier to boot."
Bliss will initiate the scrying mission at the time Pressi communicated through Murphy, and see what the dwarfs who are not married to each other are up to.
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40 CMB 24 CMD 44 HP 196+8 d20+43=58 ; d20+32=35 ; d20+15=16 ; d20+15=34 ; d20+16=27 ; d20+18=30 ; d20+17=22 ; d20+27=45 ; d20+18=32 ; Friday April 23rd, 2021 6:30:52 AM
This dutiful husband carries out his wife's various wishes, filling Bliss in on the lock of hair and scrying mirror, ("I bought that mirror myself just before we went to rescue the Second Dinner Club members from the Red Hills," he mentions); and making quiet inquiries about Aden's disappearance (or whereabouts), and also sees what else he may discover regarding Holden Deepdelver.
"Yes, Vokwabyrn, she was," Murphy says regarding Pressi's request, "but has been diverted for the moment. She sends apologies, but I'll go ahead and look through the material she requested. Thank you so much for helping us - I trust your efforts will give us some insights into accomplishing that for which you have brought us here."
More than that, he spends an hour or so quickly getting an overview of the available documentation, and then delving more deeply into things that may possibly shed greater light on recent events, players, connections. ========== Perception: 58 Sense Motive: 35 Knowledge, Arcana: 16 Knowledge, Geography: 35 (should have been +16, not 15) Knowledge, History: 27 Knowledge, Local: 30 Knowledge, Technology: 22 Knowledge, The Planes: 45 Linguistics: 32
DM Mitch Friday April 23rd, 2021 9:27:52 AM Succotash is happy to pass on the pile of documents. Hobie goes visible and rejoins the group. Pressie is very busy organizing the continuing investigation. Bliss is always happy for more food and is prepared to do the requested scrying. Murphy does Pressi’s requests then talks to Vokwabyrn about the paperwork before doing a deep dive on it.
Pressi swings by the forge before hoping to rendezvous with Kezz’m at the general store. She has sent several messages to Murphy and Kezz’m with requests for the 2 of them and Bliss to do as she asked. It is ultimately up to them to comply with her requests. She uses hide in plain sight and a change of outfit glamour to blend in, the thing is unless her outfit glamour can change her size, being a halfling, she is woefully smaller than the other forge workers(Who are dwarfs) so if she ends up doing anything to draw attention to herself her disguise might not hold up under serious scrutiny. Unless she wants to enter the forge through another entrance she can only get to the external portion of the loading dock. There is an overhang with a road running through it attached to a wall of the foundry with a securely locked solid-locking built-in double doors and ramps extending from road level to the door. There is no-one around the external part of the loading dock as the caravan has not arrived yet and when nothing is being loaded they keep this part of the forge secure it would seem.
It is only after lunch, there are still several hours left in the workday, Dinna and Botheal’s rendezvous is still hours away.
The party in the administration building starts reviewing records, Murphy leading the charge.
Vokwabyrn says to Murphy, “Yes, well we just wanted to make sure this is being taken seriously. We do appreciate you helping us.”
As to the inquiries of Holden Deepdelver, Mafrid says, “I do not know of a Holden Deepdelver, if you mean Holder Deepdelver then that is an honorific bestowed on the leader of a Hold of Dwarfs. Red Rock being an independent operation is kind of an exception to the rule but in the Scab Dwarves are typically organized in clans with several holds making up a clan and the leader of a hold is called Holder. Holder Deepdelver leads the Deepdelver Hold of the Fist Dwarves Clan not be confused with Holder Deepmantle who leads the Deepmantle Hold of the Black Dwarves. When it comes to hiring, we are purely a merit based organization so our employees may have ties to some of the Holds or Clans. We try not to pry into their personal lives too much. What they do on their own time is their business. What they do on Red Rock time is ours”
Murphy pulls the documentation on Botheal and Novid. He asks about a lack of a folder for Aden Steelbraid and Mafrid replies, “Aden is Botheal’s wife. She is a homemaker. I was inquiring about her not as boss to an employee but as a concerned friend. We used to see her out and about or at events but it seems like for some reason she doesn’t get out as much as she used to. I wanted to make sure she was okay. Surely you don’t think she had anything to do with what is going on?”
Looking through the documents on Botheal you find that he is a model employee with not one demerit to his record. He doesn’t appear to be as skilled as Novid and his salary reflects this.
Novid though was given a raise involving being paid several more thousand gold pieces a year not too long ago. More recently however the payment ledger reveals that in spite of this hefty paycheck he still requested and received an advance on his salary. His record indicates his skill and doesn’t indicate any problems either.
As to Murphy’s general thinking session, Botheal and Dinna appear to be up to something but whether it is mere infidelity or something else is hard to say at this time. Thirmid Deepmantle, a friend and supplier, has started delivering more shipments of ore and is being paid more frequently and sometimes in advance because of this. Novid requested and received a raise in pay but also put in for some salary payments in advance. The new alloy Red Rock has been developing seems like it could be useful if it ever takes off and the Black Dwarf clan at least seemed interested in acquiring Red Rock in exchange for protection, whether that means the robberies are their racket or they are just taking advantage of a situation is yet to be seen. The bandits appear to attack caravans on the move as they pass through vulnerable positions seemingly out of nowhere whether they have spies locally or are figuring out movements some other way is also yet to be determined. Perhaps taking a look at one of the caravans when they load up before they head out on guard duty may yield further insight. The one thing Murphy remembers that is new information relative to this case from his previous journeys into the Scab is that Coalhelm if he is not mistaken is a Dwarf family name tied ot Fist Dwarves clan potentially to the DeepDelver Hold if he is not mistaken in his Dwarvish genealogies. He doesn’t think he is considering halfling genealogy is somewhat of a hobby for him but there are some differences between Dwarves and Halfings.
There are still some time before the caravan arrives to load up and the scheduled rendezvous between Botheal and Dinna will likely take place after that. What would you like to do now?
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB d20+3=23 ; d20+24=31 ; Friday April 23rd, 2021 11:39:57 AM
Kezzem grills the shop keep, as per Pressi's suggestion, but in the most Kezzem way possible.
"What is your name?" "Who do you work for?" "What is your favorite color?"
Intimidate: 23. Natural 20. Sense Motive: 31.
Also, detect evil.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) Friday April 23rd, 2021 8:22:46 PM
Pressi considers entering the foundry but doesn't do so at this time. She figured that she wouldn't see much, with the robberies occurring on the road. But she doesn't really see anywhere that a person can skulk, so she can rule here out as the leak.
Unfortunately, this also meant that it would be hard to make a decoy or fortify the caravan without drawing attention, and she didn't think inside the foundry would be a much more private. And doing it on the road might be tough. She'd have to think on this further. Maybe get an idea of where the robberies occurred in the past.
(It occurred to Pressi that she might be paranoid. That there might not be any leak at all, and the bandits are just using choke points and good observation. But she also doesn't want to walk into an ambush herself.)
From there, she moves on, switching to her normal look (the traveling outfit, not the rock and roll one) and makes her way to the general store. (I leave it to the DM to decide how long Kezzem badgered the poor shopkeeper.)
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40 CMB 24 CMD 44 HP 196+8 Friday April 23rd, 2021 8:46:11 PM
Murphy telepaths to Pressi, "I could put most of the alloy into a portable hole that I carry, leave at least one real container and some false containers in each wagon, and thereby preclude the theft of the whole shipment. As well as leaving things, markers, with each ingot that would allow us to use some sort of scrying to locate the objects should some be successfully grabbed."
"And maybe wagons over mountain passes are not the best way to transport the materials. Sure, not everyone has access to the means, but teleportation, or tree travel, or shadow transport, or using some of the tunnels and tubes under the mountains may provide greater security. Old-school wagons - very vulnerable."
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Saturday April 24th, 2021 5:59:02 PM
"Do you like mushrooms?" "Do you know anything about the missing ore?: "What about shitake mushrooms?" "Do you think I would look more cool riding a shark mount than a pony?" "Do lady dwarf's have beards or do they shave?" "Do you have anything to do with Skald?" "Do you think my jokes are funny?" "What is the air-speed velocity of an unladen flying skatesboard?"
Hobie (Nick T) HP 198/198 AC 37 Touch 23 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells Sunday April 25th, 2021 2:45:37 PM
Hobie will join Kezzem at the shopkeep. “I assure you Sir, all of these questions are vital to our investigation, tell the truth or risk great peril. Especially on whether the shark is cooler than the pony!”
DM Mitch Monday April 26th, 2021 7:54:30 AM The Kezz’em scares people with a barrage of questions. Pressi considers her options, including the possibility that she might just be paranoid. Murphy talks about ways to hide the ore and ways to track the ore after letting it get stolen. Hobie helps Kezz’em. Well if assisting in the intimidation of the local shopkeeper can be counted as helping.
Kezz’em and Hobie burst into the general store giving the shopkeep the tenth degree. There conversation goes something like this:
Kezz’em: "What is your name?" Shopkeep: “Fili Heavycloak at your service and who might you be?”
Kezz’em: "Who do you work for?" Fili: “Why I work for Mafrid and Vokwabyrn, owners of the Red Rock foundry like everyone else here. I hope you treat the other employees of theirs a mite better”
Kezz’em: "What is your favorite color?" Fili: “Gold, of course.”
Kezz’em:"Do you like mushrooms?" Fili: “They are not my favorite but I eat them on occasion”
Kezz’em: "Do you know anything about the missing ore? Fili: “Are you implying I had something to do with the robberies? My name may be Heavycloack, sir, but I can assure you it isn’t because I pilfer items.”
Kezz’em: "What about shitake mushrooms?" Fili: “Don’t think I ever had those.”
Kezz’em: "Do you think I would look more cool riding a shark mount than a pony?" Fili: “I fail to see how that has any bearing on what is going on…” Hobie: “I assure you Sir, all of these questions are vital to our investigation, tell the truth or risk great peril. Especially on whether the shark is cooler than the pony!” Fili: “Depends on the type of shark I suppose.”
Kezz’em:"Do lady dwarf's have beards or do they shave?" Fili: “Neither, they just don’t grow facial hair.”
Kezz’em:"Do you have anything to do with Skald?" Fili: “No and why would I? We respect the Woldian Pantheon here. Ffloy, in particular as this is a house of trade.”
Kezz’em:"Do you think my jokes are funny?" Fili: “Well this one certainly isn’t.”
Kezz’em"What is the air-speed velocity of an unladen flying skatesboard?" Fili:”For some reason I feel compelled to ask, African or European?”
Fili does not detect as evil.
Pressi walks in on the question about the skateboard and subsequent answer.
Pressi, Hobie, Kezz’em - Sense Motive 10 : Highlight to display spoiler: {Fili does not seem too happy. He’ll likely tell Vokwabyrn and Mafrid about his interaction with Kezz’em and Hobie and not in a positive way}
Pressi, Hobie and Kezz’em are in the general store with Fili Heavycloak.
Meanwhile Murphy, Bliss, Mookie and Succotash are still in the administration building. Murphy is deep in thought about their quandary.
It has been a little over an hour since lunchtime.
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Monday April 26th, 2021 11:09:28 AM "Well my friends, and this may just be my adventure lust kicking in but, I think our only course of action is to hitch a ride on the next caravan, and hope we can make contact with the miscreants causing all the trouble. This place has it's intrigues to be sure, but I fear we will find nothing concrete until we hit the road."
Hobie (Nick T) HP 198/198 AC 37 Touch 23 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells d20=3 ; Monday April 26th, 2021 2:31:23 PM
Hobie, being woefully unable to Sense Motive, doesn't read Fili well.
While Kezzem is questioning Fili, Hobie uses prestidigitation to move some bottles of liquor off the highest shelves and over to the counter. "How much for these Mr. Heavycloak? You wouldn't believe the things we've seen, and I imagine whatever we see next could use some whiskey. We killed a dragon you know. And a number of giants. And a Devil. And some TERRIFYING invisible blade creatures in the Sargrass."
ooc: Man, I don't know if you guys pictured those Sargrass invisible creatures the same way I did, but I legit still have nightmares about those things. If you remember, Hobie interrupted some attempts at diplomacy by firing an arrow without hesitating, and I think I did that because those things sincerely freaked me out.
[OOC: Hi friends. Back after taking a week off to deal with RL stuff. Thanks to everybody who helped cover for me.]
"Oh, this administration building is very interesting. Look here, Mookie, at this!"
Perception 38
Bliss points out the detail that he just noticed.
"Oh, and what about this!"
Know Nature 15
Bliss tries to link some petty bit of natural lore to something he sees right over there.
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Monday April 26th, 2021 3:36:41 PM
"Sorry, my good dwarf, but I was instructed to grill you, and I don't think she meant for me to cook you (at least I hope Press didn't mean it that way). The good news is you passed! The bad news is, I can't buy anything right now because I'm still waiting on my last paycheck. Would you settle for a joke? A human, a half-orc, and an elf walked into a bar. The halfling walked under it."
"Well, Press, the shop keep checks out," says Kezzem. "He doesn't hate mushrooms, so he can't be a bad guy."
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) Monday April 26th, 2021 9:05:59 PM
Pressi stared at Kezzem and Hobie in what remains one of the few ways to strike fear in the heart of a paladin.
"My apologies, shopkeep, but I have never seen either of these two men in my life. I will call the cops if you prefer, but I hope you will take pity on what is clearly a diseased mind.... Put down the bottle, put it down..."
After she pulled them out, "Yeah, I did not instruct you to grill him, let alone... whatever that was. Did you ask him about anybody with suddenly deep pockets or any rumors? Maybe if there was anything that would cause someone to run up a huge debt? Or maybe just scout the place for anyone out of place?
"Or heck, maybe just not antagonize the person and make threatening mage hand moves to someone we might have to buy stuff from?"
Pressi closed her eyes. "Did either of you come up with anything useful, say better ideas for how to secure the transport?"
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40 CMB 24 CMD 44 HP 196+8 d20+43=54 ; d20+25=44 ; Tuesday April 27th, 2021 5:25:31 AM
At some point, and with people who ostensibly might know, Murphy asks a series of questions. "It would be good to get descriptions of the robbers. How were they dressed. What race or races did they represent. How many were there? It sounds like the attacks took place in a different location each time - is that the case? Did anyone witness more than one of the robberies? Did their tactics change from situation to situation? Did they use arrows? Daggers? Swords? Magic? Did they fly?" and other queries along those lines.
Whatever patterns he is able to discern from the files, ledgers, and so forth he will try to discern.
Perception: 54 Survival: 44 (maybe I can survive this investigation)
DM Mitch Tuesday April 27th, 2021 7:38:03 AM Succotash thinks they’ve gotten all they will out of the foundry folk. Hobie is oblivious to the shopkeepers discomfort. He tries to buy something. Blizz finds the administration building interesting. Kezz’m apologizes, tells a bad joke, and blows Pressi’s cover. Pressi tries to cover before scolding her compatriots. Murphy asks some pertinent questions about the robbers.
At the Administration Building:
Mafrid says to Succotash, “The caravan should be arriving soon to load up and head out.”
Bliss notices that the administrative building has oak paneling on the far wall, it isn’t really relevant to the task at hand but it looks nice.
At the General Store:
Fili says to Hobie, “Careful! You break those you bought ‘em. As for price, Whiskey is 20 gold per bottle. You got the coin?”
Fili says to The Kezz’m, “Are you sure you know what you are doing? Don’t you have better things to be doing then spending your time badgering an innocent shopkeep about trivialities?”
Fili says to Pressi, “I don’t know if these clowns are with you or not. I do know you are all halflings and we tend not to see many of your kind out here so you probably are together. When my shift is up I’m gonna let my bosses know what transpired here today, don’t know if it will make a difference or not but it is exceedingly rude to enter someone’s place of work and accuse them of stealing or being affiliated with rogue Immortal Powers. I’d suggest you get on your way and leave me out of whatever investigation the one with the drinking problem was talking about from now on.”
Shortly after that exchange Pressi, Hobie and The Kezz’m are discussing things outside when they notice a small wagon train complete with outriders approaching the greater foundry areas along the road outside. It hasn’t reached the boundary to foundry grounds yet, but it won’t be too long before it will be at the loading bay.
Vokwabyrn answer’s Murphy’s questions. Reports where a little confused, as things often are in such things, but the consensus leans towards a half dozen bandits or more. Daggers, swords, and bows were reported as armament, and magic was probably used so that they could pull their appearing out of nowhere act. No one mentioned any flying. The attacks usually happened along a long, narrow pass that had to be taken to leave the area, but always on a different stretch of the pass making it hard to pinpoint any sort of staging ground or camp. Reports lean towards them being some kind of lizardfolk or beastfolk.
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Tuesday April 27th, 2021 10:21:06 AM "Sounds like a mixed bag when it comes to the martial types, with magical assistance, but it appears that the magic user or users don't want to get their hands dirty, Well, I for one am in favor of rubbing some mud in those clean hands!"
Bliss HP152 of 222 AC28 CMD40 | Mookie HP76+13 AC42 | Cayzle Tuesday April 27th, 2021 11:05:43 AM
Bliss listens carefully to the fellow talking with Murphy.
"So how's about we go along hidden like on one of these runs and ambush the ambushers, then?" asks Bliss.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) d20+24=43 ; Tuesday April 27th, 2021 9:51:36 PM
After settling down and seeing the caravan, Pressi popped back in. "I again apologize for some of the rudeness of my companions... though I should point out that technically I don't think they even implied towards theft or 'Immortal Powers', and I find it slightly odd that you immediately went that defensive.
"So... here's what I'm going to do. I'm going to ask you again if you know anything about the thefts, and I mean anything at all. People with large purchases, rumors of magic users or people in debt, political stories with some of the supplying clans or customers, anything at all, really. I'm going to put a hundred gold coins down here on the counter for the two bottles of whiskey, and then leave before you say anything else. You think about it, and you think about how much more annoying it will be if this whole place goes under or if we have to come back again under less pleasant circumstances.
"If you later happen to have anything come to mind, you can probably find me directly or through your bosses, whatever's more comfortable. Should you think of nothing, the money's still yours, though I'd prefer if the events that transpired stayed within this room. Should there be a higher price for, I dunno, something rather uncomfortable to divulge, I'm sure such coin will also make its way to the counter."
(Diplomacy 43)
--------------
Pressi led the other two back to the loading bay.
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40 CMB 24 CMD 44 HP 196+8 Wednesday April 28th, 2021 12:05:17 AM
Murphy asks his friends, "Does anyone here have or know the shrink item spell? If so, we could reduce some of the ingots to much smaller sizes, even turn them into pieces of cloth. When they arrive at their desired destination, then - presto! - they change back to mithral-enlaced steel. What are the dimensions of the ingots, again?"
"Not only do we want to thwart the theft, but also trail / trace back to their lairs - or the place of the person who hired them. Or places of people who did so. And perhaps recover a healthy percentage of that which has been stolen."
He asks for a map of the route to the intended destination - and if they cannot give him one, he is pretty good at quickly copying and/or memorizing such. He also asks to be shown the respective planned destinations of each of the stolen shipments, and wishes to plot on the map the location of each of the robberies.
"Are there any underground routes that would allow passage from here to a decent place beyond the pass?"
He also wants a description of the terrain. And thinks it might be wise to scout ahead, invisibly, perhaps a pair of party members.
Hobie (Nick T) HP 198/198 AC 37 Touch 23 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells Wednesday April 28th, 2021 2:59:14 AM
When the shop keep asks Hobie if he has the coin to buy his whiskey, Hobie's jaw drops.
"I'm dressed head to toe in magical gear, my buddy here is wearing a Mithral breastplate, and you ask if I can afford your 20 gold piece whiskey? I may not be so perceptive, but man, you are about as thick as the wall of ice I could block your entrance with in 6 seconds."
Hobie puts 3 bottles in his bag, drops 6 platinum pieces down on the counter. He activates his ring of invisibility and disappears. A few seconds later the door slams.
DM Mitch Wednesday April 28th, 2021 8:31:26 AM Succotash muses on the enemy group’s composition. Bliss suggests they hide themselves to ambush the ambushers. Pressi tries to smooth things over with the shopkeeper via a smooth tongue and a lot of bribery. Murphy suggests shrinking the goods to hide them and asks for routing information and a map. Hobie is offended at the money question and also overpays.
At the Administration building:
Mafrid says to Succotash, “So long as their attacks are put to an end you can rub all you want.”
Vokwabyrn says to Bliss, “Well we mean for you to be guards. If you think using your small size to your advantage and lying in wait for the bandits to show up will be an effective strategy then by all means employ it. We don’t mean to tell you how to do your job, just that we want the bandit attacks and ore robberies stopped.”
To Murphy, Mafrid says “Each 5 pound ingot is 8 and ¾ inches by 1 inch by 2 inches. Today’s shipment is intended for the Anvilhand Hold of the Fist Dwarves. Anvilhand Hold is sort of located in the North Central area of the Scab” he points on a map.
“This will be the third shipment we will be attempting to get to the Anvilhand Hold. Two of our other shipments were bound to the trading post in Cthonia and the last two were supposed to go all the way to the Float. A human smith there by the name of Mayfield I believe took an interest in our new alloy. Sadly he has had to wait quite some time for it.”
He pauses, “As for the terrain, it is typically roads carved out of the mountain, for the most in decent condition, though there can be some precarious places depending on the particular route taken. Unfortunately there are no good alternative routes besides the road until you get beyond the pass.”
===============
Back at the general store
Fili says to the leaving Hobie as he turns invisible and storms away, “Now you know how I felt when you folks barged in here and started interrogating me as if I had something to do with what is going on with the robberies.”
Fili says to Pressi after her apology but before she makes her offer, “They barged in here and essentially interrogated me. One of the questions asked seemed to imply I had something to do with the missing alloy by the tone they took in asking it. The other question asked if I had anything to do with Skald and my understanding is Skald is a chaotic immortal power that brings nothing but trouble meanwhile the Woldian Pantheon including Floy, especially brings prosperity and stability.”
After Pressi overpays for the 2 bottles of whiskey, he says, “You know maybe I jumped to conclusions and what we had was just a minor misunderstanding between friends. In fact I see no reason to get the bosses involved. Let’s let bygones be bygones. Now lets see. Well the caravan robberies have been the talk of the foundry, but you probably already know that. Supposedly some sort of beast folk come out of nowhere and threaten death if they don’t get compliance in handing over the alloy. The bosses went to the Black Dwarves clan for help but the Black Dwarves wanted the foundry so the bosses said no. Speaking of the Black Dwarven Clan supposedly Thirmid Deepmantle, a miner and friend of the bosses, is in need of some serious scratch and the bosses are trying to help him out. Lastly while we are on the subject of debt, rumor has it that Novid Coalhelm, the forgemaster, has his own debts, of course he’s of the Fist Dwarven Clan so he’d have to deal with Holder Deepdelver about that. That’s about all I can think of. Hope that helps.”
When folks head over to the loading bay things are abustle in activity. The caravan has arrived and the double doors are now open. Forge workers and caravaneers are attempting to secure the crates inside some of the wagons.
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells d20+35=46 ; Wednesday April 28th, 2021 11:32:52 AM
Succotash gives the loaded wagons the once over. (perception 46) He is looking to make sure everything is secured safely, as well as making sure everything is on the up and up.
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Wednesday April 28th, 2021 11:46:04 AM
To Hobie, Kezzem says, "Some people just don't appreciate an ole fashioned game of bad paladin, good witch. Besides, the Black Dwarf clan are clearly behind this," says Kezzem. Pressi can only silence him with a glare for so long apparently. "This is a classic protection racket. Watch, pretty soon one will show up and say, 'That's a nice mine you've got here. Be a shame if something happened to it.":
Hobie (Nick T) HP 198/198 AC 37 Touch 23 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells Wednesday April 28th, 2021 12:19:09 PM
"I'm in full agreement that this is a protection racket."
Hobie gathers himself and his gear "Okay, so are we going out with this caravan? Let's get moving"
Bliss HP152 of 222 AC28 CMD40 | Mookie HP76+13 AC42 | Cayzle Wednesday April 28th, 2021 12:24:26 PM
Bliss will assume his witchy cat form today, the better to hide in the caravan and surprise the ambushers.
Other business: Every morning Bliss casts Heroes' Breakfast for the team. And he loads up on his usual spells and rituals.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) Wednesday April 28th, 2021 9:35:45 PM
The kid is making it real hard to get her to bed so I’m scratching this on my phone. No notes, no real thought, and my apologies no witty dialogue or pithy observations.
Pressi doesn’t quite agree that this is a protection racket. She’s pretty sure that someone inside is involved, and something seems real off. Like the magic stuff, not typical for dwarves. This beast folk wrinkle also makes her unsure of herself.
She makes a couple of proposals. First, she’d like to be on the caravan as a guard, and maybe have Valerie inside the vault. She figured Murphy could follow (with the real caravan if they are doing the decoy). She considers if anyone else on the team would be good at going undercover but it might just be her. (She was planning to put Kezzem as a driver, but he’s kind of on the outs. Does Succotash want to take a shot.)
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40 CMB 24 CMD 44 HP 196+8 Thursday April 29th, 2021 2:24:01 AM
Murphy communicates with Pressi frequently enough to keep abreast of what she is seeing, learning and doing, and passing on his information gathering and perspectives as well. He shares likewise with Bliss, Succotash, and other party members if they are nearby.
"Our boys sometimes seem to have rather rocky social formations," he says to her, smiling. "Perhaps in the next few months we can get them enrolled in etiquette classes."
Murphy asks for a place to leave some of the items he normally carries in his portable hole. He privately, discretely, asks Mafrid if about two thirds to three quarters of the ingots could be placed in his portable hole. "Maybe put something along the bottom of the crates of equivalent mass, and topped by real ingots. If by chance they are able to get away with some of the shipment, my having the bulk of them in what looks like a black pocket handkerchief can preclude them from getting the whole thing. But if possible I don't want the people with us knowing that I have them, lest in a moment of weakness one or more of them think they should tell the robbers. Does that make sense to you?" He thinks it may also be wise, should Mafrid agree to this plan, to have a few ingots kept with other party members.
He also asks whether the carts or wagons were stolen, or simply the metal. If only the latter, how did they carry them off? Beast creatures? Of what sorts?
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40 CMB 24 CMD 44 HP 196+8 Thursday April 29th, 2021 2:31:22 AM
At some point before they leave, Murphy enters the shop. "I wish to apologize for the apparent rude behavior of my companions. Both of them are capable of great deeds, but one can say the oddest things, and the other is one of the best archers I know, but courtesy of speech is not always his strong suit. Also, though most shopkeepers I know tend to be pleasant and helpful, in our hometown the fellow who runs the general store is not noted for those characteristics, so sometimes customers can reciprocate. Which I am confident is not the case with you. If there is something I can do for you, or help obtain for your store, please let me know."
He checks on his oak tree, and spends a bit of time examining where it was planted, and figuring what he may need to do to alter the ground at some point so it does not up and die over the course of the next few months. That may have to wait until after the shipment business.
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40 CMB 24 CMD 44 HP 196+8 Thursday April 29th, 2021 2:33:47 AM
To the shopkeeper, "Oh, and my father and one of my brothers hold quite a bit of respect for Ffloy. Interesting fact: In Humble's Ford, the temples of Flower and Ffloy share a building. Plants, familial love, and profits, as it were."
Hobie (Nick T) HP 198/198 AC 37 Touch 23 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells Thursday April 29th, 2021 8:56:52 AM
Hobie would like to use his ring of invisibility and just be invisible somewhere in/on the caravan, perhaps just sitting on top with his bow ready like a turret
DM Mitch Thursday April 29th, 2021 9:08:03 AM Succotash double checks the cargo. Kezz’m is convinced it’s the black dwarf clan Hobie agrees with him. He’s ready to go. Bliss goes cat. Pressi considers possible plans. Murphy suggest etiquette classes, suggests hiding the goods, and asks if the wagons were taken or just the goods. He adds another round of apologies to the shopkeeper.
Murphy is able to visit the general store before going to the loading bay at the foundry.
In response to his apology for Hobie and Kezz’m’s behavior, Fili says, “That is quite alright, that charming halfling woman managed to straighten things out. It was just a misunderstanding between friends but if you still feel the need to help provision the store, if you come across any rare or unusual spirits in your travels a few bottles or so would not be declined. As I told the others we respect the Woldian pantheon not just Ffloy but we hold him in the highest esteem considering our profession. That temple devoted to Flower and Ffloy must be a sight to see.”
Murphy is also able to check on the oak tree, the soil here is rather poor. The oak should be fine at least until the business with the bandits is seen to but if he wants it to last for the long term the soil will need to be enriched.
When everyone is able to gather at the loading bay the following happens:
As Succotash peruses the wagons he notices the cargo is securely lashed where it can be and everything is shipshape.
Hobie is anxious to be on their way but not all the cargo has been loaded yet.
It is still the same day, but at the depot Bliss can stalk around as a cat if he wishes
At the loading depot Mafrid introduces everyone to Henmil Chaosfeet, the leader of the caravan. He is a middle aged Dwarf with a bushy chestnut beard.
Pressi volunteers to serve as a guard with Valerie inside one of the wagons holding the alloy cargo while Murphy and the others except maybe Succotash follow from behind.
Murphy takes Mafrid aside and offers an alternate tactic of hiding some of the ingots in his portable hole.
Mafrid says to Murphy, “The cargo is being loaded as we speak. If we take it off the wagons then everyone will know about your portable hole. I am not opposed to your idea though and if your group wants to go through with it I will instruct Henmil to give you access to the wagons and provide you with a pry bar so that you may open the crates and get the ingots into your hole. I will loop him in to what is going on as well because he is ostensibly responsible for the cargo as well and should know so as to not think they were robbed after all should you reach your destination without incident.”
Henmil responds to Pressi when asked about decoys, “We might be able to shift the cargo around so that one of the wagons is mostly empty and you can use it as a decoy if you wish. It might delay our leaving further but if you think it will help against the bandits then who am I to argue?” While this is happening the party can see that the crates have finished loading and that it is quitting time for the day at the foundry. You can see Botheal headed out, likely to his rendezvous with Dinna... Do you want to implement Pressi’s decoy idea, Murphy’s portable hole idea? Both? Neither? Some other option?
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Thursday April 29th, 2021 11:15:02 AM
Succotash would be fine driving the decoy wagon, besides he isn't so sure how Valerie would react to being hidden in the wagon, if he wasn't near by to comfort her.
Bliss HP152 of 222 AC28 CMD40 | Mookie HP76+13 AC42 | Cayzle Thursday April 29th, 2021 3:14:12 PM
Mookie stays with the party, but Cat-Bliss hangs out in the depot and around the wagons. He keeps alert for anything odd or out of the ordinary.
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40 CMB 24 CMD 44 HP 196+8 Thursday April 29th, 2021 3:32:54 PM
"I'll see what I can do for you on the spirits, good dwarf," Murphy tells the shopkeeper. "I occasionally get to Plateau City - no doubt I could pick up some interesting bottles for you there. Might take a few weeks or months, but I'll do something like that for you."
Murphy concurs with Mafrid that Henmil should know. "Let's run with the decoy notion - and that will afford me the opportunity to offload at least one of the crates into the portable hole. Can we get one more crate to bring along to take up the space vacated for the one I hide? Put some rocks in it maybe. Though I'd prefer the partial taking from each crate, under the circumstances putting one whole crate into the portable hole is not a bad measure - honestly, there'd be room two or three crates, but let's do one for now. Perhaps another later, but we'll see as we go along. Any asks, and it's 'security measures'. Because, it really is!"
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Thursday April 29th, 2021 4:13:56 PM
"So we're going with my decoy wagon idea?" asks a surprised Kezzem. "Are we just going to let them attack and see what we're up against, or should we just try to take them out on the spot?
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 96/102, CMD 30 (35) Thursday April 29th, 2021 9:42:58 PM
To Kezzem, "Part of the reason I want to be on the decoy wagon is to size them up. I can keep them talking, detect whatever magic they're using, and start counteracting them long before they realize what they're up against... though I probably will need an extraction at some point. I could also have the empty cart filled with summons or something I can animate, and I'm thinking some contingency spells with Blink might not be a bad idea..."
Pressi turns to Henmil. "How are your drivers and guards in an actual firefight? Because I should warn you that this could get ugly, and I don't want to put anyone in harms way or assume they have my back. If nobody can fight, keep them off the decoy and we'll modify our plans accordingly." If Henmil says some of them can fight, she asks if any of them have weapons or training.
"I'm thinking it will be tough to completely separate the decoy from the rest of the pack but I could have it far forward while Bliss and Mookie scout ahead. We need a way to make sure they attack the decoy car first, though."
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Friday April 30th, 2021 1:55:50 AM
"I'm not much for bluffing these days so I don't think going undercover is a good fit for me. I'm still pretty stealthy so I can hang nearby, especially if somebody can make me invisible or something. I could hide in the back or keep a distance, in which case I'll need to get close pretty quick. Rumpus is pretty quick, but I don't think I can hide a horse and I don't want to waste time summoning him if your in danger. Do we still have that flying carpet?"
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 46/T25/F40 CMB 24 CMD 44 HP 196+8 Friday April 30th, 2021 3:42:12 AM
"Flying carpet? Yes." Murphy produces it for Kezzem.
He adds, "So far, unless I am mistaken, the robbers have not taken anyone's life. Am I correct in that? Now, they certainly are affecting people's livelihoods. My hope would be to avoid killing where possible, though if some of the attackers are taken down, I may not mourn too greatly. But along with stopping the thefts, we want to try to trace where the stolen ingots have gotten to. It may be easier if some of the attackers be subdued and questioned. If need be a ransom paid with mithral-alloyed steel, and a promise never to attack the delivery wagons again. Hobie, I am so glad your bow has the merciful aspect. Others, too, among us, can keep these things in mind."
DM Mitch Friday April 30th, 2021 7:39:35 AM Succotash is fine with driving the decoy wagon. Bliss in cat form keeps alert for odd goings on. Murphy offers to bring good spirits back to the shopkeeper one day. He agrees to the decoy option and specifies some preparations. Kezz’m is surprised the group is going with his idea. Pressi wants to be able to talk to the bandits, size them up and be able to detect their magic. She asks about the fighting prowess of the caravan group. Kezz’m follows up with a suggestion he stealthily shadows the party and asks about a flying carpet. Murphy produces said carpet and asks about deaths in the roberies.
Cat-Bliss and Mookie don’t see anything unusual at the depot aside from the following proceedings between his friends and Mafrid and Henmil.
Mafrid calls Henmil over to where he and Murphy are discussing things. He says, “Murphy is going to put a crate of alloy ingots in his portable black hole from the wagon you will remove cargo from to act as a decoy. He says as for the other crate, well maybe we can put rocks in it or maybe we can put some scrap metal cast-offs. This is a foundry maybe if the thieves don’t have an eye for metal and things head south they might accept scrap as what they are after.”
Mafrid goes into the loading bay and finds Novid and the two of them come back a little while later with another box. He says, “Scrap decoy box ready to go.”
Henmil says in response to Pressi, “My guards can fight off run of the mill bandits, but these ones are abnormal. Their magick alone sets them apart leaving my men outmatched. We’ll give your decoy a wide berth though we have crossbows, swords, clubs and spears amidst our number”
Mafrid says in reply to Murphy’s inquiry, “Well the first wagon lost some folks but that was a different caravaneer. Some foolhardy guards got it into their heads to try to mount a counter attack during the offloading of the ingot boxes. They went down amidst a flurry of axe and rapier blows or so I am told. Later raids everyone behaved and were allowed to leave with their lives”
The caravaneers shift the cargo around leaving the wagon you designated as decoy mostly empty save for the scrap box Mafrid and Novid got you and a few crates of supplies. While the cargo is being shifted around Murphy is able to put the crate full of alloy ingots originally in the shifted wagon in his portable hole. Is there anything else you’d like to do before the caravan heads off?
It sounds like the Marching Order will be:
Bliss and Mookie advance scouts, Succotash and Pressi external on decoy with Succotash as driver and Pressi as guard with Valerie on the inside.
The caravan’s outriders serving as a buffer
The rest of the caravan with Murphy, Kezz’em and Hobie amongst them. Kezz’em with the magic carpet in case he needs to rapidly get to the decoy
Please correct any misinterpretations on the DM part with respect to marching order. It’s also important to know how far ahead of the main wagon you intend to be with the decoy- do you intend to look like one big group, or two caravans that happen to be on the same road? In earshot of each other, within sight but not shouting distance, or far enough the bandits won’t be able to see both groups?
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 128/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Friday April 30th, 2021 11:29:24 AM "I know it's dark under the tarp, girl, but trust me, it's for the best" Succotash says to Valerie using his speak with animals ability. He also takes the time to explain the plan to his dino friend, using simple terms so she is sure to understand.
When everyone is ready to depart, Succotash takes the reigns and says, "Giddy-up" as he pulls the decoy wagon away from the loading dock, and starts down the trail.
The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36; HP 246/248; Boots of Speed (5/10), FoM, GMW, WB Friday April 30th, 2021 6:18:26 PM
"Okay, we're taking them alive this time," says Kezzem. "Anybody have rubber daggers?"
Bliss HP152 of 222 AC28 CMD40 | Mookie HP76+13 AC42 | Cayzle Saturday May 1st, 2021 12:02:54 AM
Bliss will be an advance scout. He has the stealth for it. But Mookie will stay with the main caravan. That way he can relay any telepathic reports he gets from Bliss.
DM Mitch Monday May 3rd, 2021 6:48:31 AM
“Rawr!” Valerie says agreeably to Succotash from under the tarp.
Bliss serves as kitty advance scout with Mookie perched on one of the wagons with the main group to serve as a messaging relay.
Travel is slow and uneventful at first. Considering you left late in the day you won’t be able to reach the pass where all this is happening on your first day. You are going to have to make camp.
There are 3 places that Henmil recommends. The first is a flat stretch of land where the stones have been rearranged into a sort of a windbreak. The second is near a small spring with clean water bubbling up and the last area is near a kind of scraggly wooded area.
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