DM Robert - Is it like this every election? Wednesday March 9th, 2022 5:46:13 PM EVERYONE scene change, 2,000XP for roleplaying
Bartomus is ready to eat. Brittanica buys a bard for the night. Stohp asks about politics. Stock gives background on some politicians and asks questions. Delia deals with eavesdroppers. Zanderallen wonders about those that serve. (Your math is correct, but with a city theoretically of 50,000 less than 1% of the population is called upon). Ohen? _____
The Bard readily complies with songs. He starts with the Ballad of Jose Wellus, a sure rip-roarer. Then he goes into Molly Malone and the whole Inn joins in. He moves to the Wild Rover and other ballads, along with an occasional ditty.
Grokk replies to some of your questions between taking orders and bringing the dishes. Seems he's serving you himself and the help is taking care of everyone else. "Well I'd say it's pretty much the same every year. Lots of people throwing their hat in the ring as it were. Been a few years since an UnderLord retired so while we've had Mask Days we haven't had an election to go along with it. So a new Overlord is not a regular thing. As you know the current Overlord automatically descends as the new Underlord." He steps away for a minute.
Delia notices that patrons have scooted their tables a bit away from the Shields. But still have left walkways for the servers to get through. Grokk returns, "I've got some cinnamon sweet rolls anyone interested? Let's see, yup the politicians are laying it on think. Don't know if the will of the people influences the priest of Flower or not. Lets see so I hear, mind you none I know have actually been in temple on Blessing Day, well anyway the priest of Flower actually does that commune thing and comes out and announces which candidates would bring prosperity to the city. Most that aren't named drop out of running at that time. Heard tell from by pappy that one time one of the candidates didn't drop out and continued to campaign. He convinced enough people to vote for him that the other votes split among the other candidates wasn't enough to win. That was not a good time from what pappy said. But nothing to do about it. Free will and the like. Though I think a good many people started leaving donations and prayers to different temples asking for the Underlord to retire so a new election could be held." He shrugs.
The meal progresses. If you have nothing else, then I suggest head back to HQ and I can advance the clock to the morning of the next day.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 0/120 AC 21; CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 Wednesday March 9th, 2022 8:59:45 PM
Bartomus listened to the conversations and the songs enjoying both. He appreciated the good food, service, and drink and made a point of thanking Grokk every time that he brought something new to the table.
"So is there anything the current Overlord could gain by becoming the new Underlord? Anything at all?" Bartomus just had to ask as the election element had his head swimming, or added to the feeling left by the mead.
He followed the others back to the HQ and made his way up to his room. He glanced over at the bear mask and shook his head as he still wasn't all that fond of the mask, but it would work and it was purchased.
Brittanica Mundy (Hugh) HP 87/120 [99 / 132 - w/ con bonus] AC 25 / Touch 17 / Flat 22 CMD 17 d20+24=43 ; Wednesday March 9th, 2022 11:51:59 PM
(OOC: Brittanica would like to scribe new spells in her spell book, but in order to be able to pay cost to scribe 4th and 5th level spells Brittanica would need to advance a rank in the guild meaning she has to publish and pay the fee for the next rank. Per the requirement Write Report: The member must prepare a "Book" or "Report" on some field of magic using Know Arcana, Spellcraft, or UMD. DM may use the report in future Wold adventures. Brittanica would like to publish the volume of the Encyclopedia Brittanica that covers Abjuration, Conjuration and Divination and a smattering of articles related to non-magical topics A - C. This skill role covers her endeavor: Know[Arcana] - 43; Can I deduct the 3000 gold for dues, give her tier 4 rank, and start scribing 4th and 5th level spells into her spell book by paying donations to the guild in what she should have spent in material components considering she has a blessed book and it was ruled by the PTB that if you have a blessed book and you can scribe levels of spells from Star Mages guild you still pay the material component costs as a donation to the Star Mages guild, you'd otherwise skip?)
Brittanica asks, "When they retire does the Underlord lose their memory of what transpired while they were down there like the Undercrats do when their sentence is over? I only ask because I honestly don't see the allure of having to go down there at all and yes title of Overlord must come with a lot of juice if so many people are seeking it but what good is that juice when one day the guy before you retires from his new job down below and its down you go, cut off from everything above and in essense all that power you gained. Has their ever been an instance where an Overlord decided to retire before they were called on to serve their time as Underlord for the person they succeeded?"
That night she works on doing what she needs to finish publishing with the Star Mages the first volume of her Encyclopedia Brittanica (OOC: see my note above) and should have netted an upgrade to her Star Mage Pendent and ability to start using the Star Mages Guild Library to start scribing spells into her spell book only paying what would have been material costs as a donation to the guild.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 67/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) d20+18=24 ; Thursday March 10th, 2022 7:02:08 AM
Stohp enjoys the meal and possibly is able to continue the history lesson even after the meal (knowledge local 24)
Stock (JonM) HP: 159/159; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 33; Rage: 0/33 used Thursday March 10th, 2022 9:17:32 AM
The food is good and the reminders of the layers of bureaucracy are slightly maddening. Then again, it is a crazy Wold out there so sometimes this stuff just doesn't shock him.
Stock is among the last to leave The 'Calf and helps steady any Shields who have overimbibed.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 139/139 AC: 30 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 24 Thursday March 10th, 2022 1:18:17 PM
Zanderallen remains mostly quiet for the rest of the meal. He thanks Grokk for the excellent food and service and leaves early to walk Pepper home. "I guess we'll just have to see how things turn out, dear. Good night." He then heads back home to sleep, glad for the security of the city instead of the malice of the woods.
Delia (Hannah) HP: 97/97; AC 24/17/18; CMD 31 Thursday March 10th, 2022 5:44:06 PM
After scaring the nearby patrons, Delia lapses into silence, enjoying her meal and listening to her friends.
DM Robert -Good night Thursday March 10th, 2022 5:53:20 PM
Bartomus asks a question Brittanica asks about the underlord as well And yes to all the Starmage Guild requirement stuff Stohp thinks about history. Zanderallen takes a stroll. Ohen? Delia? _______
Stohp ponders, there's really no power or prestige that comes from being Undercrat....of course no one really knows what goes on in the bunker. [i]The bunker is in the center of the Trash level map The Trash Level is where all trash is gathered, sorted, and deported (formerly done by the beast folk that inhabited the Float). This level is lit by torchlight only because it is actually underwater. Once a year this level is flooded to get rid of the smell and refuse. A dead body hidden here might remain where it was put for months. Anarchy rules here. Justice is by cash value through the After Midnight Ulterior Court.
There was one Underlord that served for 31 years. It was a record. There was another that served for 1 year. That was another record. Few of the Underlords serve the full 20 years as the undercrats, and yes they too are memory wiped, or Geased by the gods to never reveal in any way what goes on down there. No one is really sure as none of you....to your memory...has served as undercrat of Underlord, and none of them have ever talked either because of the memory wipe or geas.
The Underlord and his bureaucracy chronicle the history of The Wold and run/maintain the machinery that keeps the city afloat. Their volumes are kept in a variety of institutions around the Wold. So there must be some form of scrying devices or such that allow them to keep tabs on everything going on in the wold during their tenure. Their volumes of history never mention anything else that goes on in the Bunker where they live or what they do there.
Dawn comes and is well up into breakfast time for the Shields when there comes a rapping rapping at the HQ doors.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 0/120 AC 21; CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 d20+15=24 ; Friday March 11th, 2022 1:01:49 AM
Bartomus had gotten up, found the much-needed facilities, managed to get himself dressed, and was about to go find his tree and porch to begin his mediations when he heard it. It was becoming something of a reoccurring thing at the headquarters. It rarely ever indicated something enjoyable was about to happen. It almost always created the exact opposite of something carefree, relaxing, or amusing.
It was the rapping, always the rapping, at the door.
Bartomus huffed and clenched his jaw as he crossed the common room and its foyer and pulled open the door just wide enough to peek through the fist-wide crack he had created.
"What do you want?" He asked without much emotion and gave a rather false smile through the thin opening.
Perception 24
Brittanica Mundy (Hugh) HP 87/120 [99 / 132 - w/ con bonus] AC 25 / Touch 17 / Flat 22 CMD 17 Friday March 11th, 2022 3:45:22 AM
Brittanica goes downstairs to see who it is. If she has time she'd like to get over to the Star Mage guild to start copying new spells into her spellbook as it will take time but it won't cost too much and there are several spells she has her eye on now that she can get 5th level spells at cost.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 67/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Friday March 11th, 2022 7:11:53 AM
Over breakfast Stohp has a sudden and amusing notion. "What if being an Underlord isn't horrible and the memories are erased so it won't scare people, but actually so incredibly awesome that if the gods let Underlords talk about it people might fight wars to claim the float and the chamber they operate from? I mean I doubt it but it's an amusing notion."
Stock (JonM) HP: 159/159; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 33; Rage: 0/33 used Friday March 11th, 2022 9:00:20 AM "There's plenty of 'what if's' we could do about the bunker. What if there is some kind of extraplanar portal there that needs to remain secret? Or what if just being there causes you to know everything happening in the Wold so it can be documented but in the process, wrecks the sanity of anybody there...Just a strange place..."
He gets up when he hears the rapping at the door, following Bart to see who it is.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 139/139 AC: 30 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 24 Friday March 11th, 2022 12:04:01 PM
Zanderallen wakes early, exercises, prays, and joins the other for breakfast on the main level. "Secret mind wipe bunker that keeps tabs on the Wold, this secret keep afloat on too many dark secrets in the Trash level."
Bart beats him to the door so he looks up muttering to himself, "Who could this be at the HQ door, a visitor and nothing more."
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 91/91, AC: 23(15T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis Saturday March 12th, 2022 12:58:05 PM "Perhaps there's good reasons for keeping everything so secret down there, I just don't get why it has to be random people ripped from their families keeping them. But of course the gods know best and I shouldn't worry my little mortal head over it."
DM Robert - What do you want? Saturday March 12th, 2022 5:54:25 PM
Bartomus answers the door. Brittanica goes to the door. You should have time. Stohp has an interesting theory. Stock has an intriguing idea, and goes to see who's at the door. Zanderallen is perplexed by it all. Ohen makes a sound judgement. Delia? ___
At the door is a young man dressed in the livery of the pages of the city council. You recognize the uniform because you've seen them before at your door. The page stammers at seeing Bartomus and his greeting, "he he hello sir." his voice squeaks. "Sp ecial d d deliver." You can see there's several scrolls tucked under his arm. He almost reverently takes them and hands them to you. They are on fine vellum and wrapped with a red ribbon. On each scroll is one of your names. The page snaps a salute on handing over the scrolls and beats a hasty retreat.
There is one scroll for each Silver Shield. Opening the scroll you find the following message in calligraphic silver ink. You are invited to attend the Blessing Ceremony tomorrow in the Diamond Cathedral at noon. Seats of prominence have been selected for you. [Remember to bring your masks as the last week officially begins after the ceremony.] --Overlord Aerashkiel
If you are from the Float... Knowledge local 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Being invited into the temple for the is a big deal, only movers and shakers (you know important or rich or famous people) usually have the ability to get entrance. It's definitely a great honor.} Sense Motive 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {You're probably getting in because you are becoming one of the movers and shakers on the Float, when you talk people listen. Also you have had several encounters with the City Council and done some jobs for them. And you're famous for having saved the Wold and the Float on separate occasions.} Knowledge noble 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Being a big deal this is like a black tie formal wear, Sunday best, sort of suit occasion. Definitely not battle dress and weapons reception.}
If you are not native to the Float... Knowledge local 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Being invited into the temple for the is a big deal, only movers and shakers (you know important or rich or famous people) usually have the ability to get entrance. It's definitely a great honor.} Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You're probably getting in because you are becoming one of the movers and shakers on the Float, when you talk people listen. Also you have had several encounters with the City Council and done some jobs for them. And you're famous for having saved the Wold and the Float on separate occasions.} Knowledge noble 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Being a big deal this is like a black tie formal wear, Sunday best, sort of suit occasion. Definitely not battle dress and weapons reception.}
So you have a day and a half to get ready.. . . . . . . .
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 0/120 AC 21; CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 d20+7=25 ; d20+12=19 ; d20=5 ; Saturday March 12th, 2022 10:24:08 PM "Oh, oh, come on in lad, my apologies. Was trying to tend to some morning necessities and such." But, his outstretched hands were filled with the scrolls and the young lad scampered off. He grimaced and it was obvious that the Taur was a bit embarrassed by how he had greeted the young messenger.
"Well, um, uh I think we all have one."
He opened his and as he read it his eyes went larger and larger.
"Uh, uh, I got, I mean we got, we are going to the Cathedral. We have seats at the Cathedral!" Bartomus sputtered it all out and he was wide eyed at the end. "Where's my drow spider silk court attire. We gotta look fancy!"
[I]Know Float 25; Sense Motive 20; Knowledge noble 5
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 67/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) d20=4 ; d20=13 ; d20=7 ; Sunday March 13th, 2022 9:27:10 AM
Stohp immediately recognizes the import of the letter and explains to anyone who doesn't seem to get it (21, 26, and 7 for checks). She has a fine selection of dresses to wear and goes to pick out her finest.
Brittanica Mundy (Hugh) HP 87/120 [99 / 132 - w/ con bonus] AC 25 / Touch 17 / Flat 22 CMD 17 d20+12=19 ; d20+12=26 ; d20+5=7 ; Sunday March 13th, 2022 11:59:12 PM
Know[Local]:19 Know[Nobility]:26 Sense Motive: 7
Brittanica says, "Well this certainly checks out with what we were talking about the other day. Apparently seats like this are for movers and shakers so that would explain why every politician and their brother is soliciting our endorsements."
She says to Bartomus, "Yes they expect us to dress for the occasion and not for battle."
"Anyway, I'm off to the Star Mages guild. I have some spells I would like to start adding to my spell book and since I published my first edition of the Encyclopedia: Brittanica I'm also moving up in the guild and there are spells I need to copy into my book so I will be talking to you after I am done there."
Between the day and a half she has she figures she can copy in 3 5th level spells so she does so. When she gets more time she plans to go back and keep adding more spells to her spell book.
Stock (JonM) HP: 159/159; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 33; Rage: 0/33 used d20+3=16 ; d20+12=22 ; Monday March 14th, 2022 8:59:49 AM "Bah. I'm wearing my armor. It's MITHRIL - probably worth more than the fancy attire of any two fancypants nobles; and looks nicer too."
He tucks his scroll in his belt and heads into the workshop where he begins carefully carving a symbol in a slightly curved piece of wood.
========== Local: 16 Sense Motive: 22
Delia (Hannah) HP: 97/97; AC 24/17/18; CMD 31 Monday March 14th, 2022 10:21:36 AM
Delia's mind was wandering, thinking about Ulrich. He seemed a good lad. He'll do well for himself given the chance. Her head snapped up at the knock, but seeing it was just a messenger, she relaxed again.
"Wow. If we're sitting at the Cathedral we'll have to behave ourselves," she gives Stock an amused look and Ohen a mildly concerned one.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 139/139 AC: 30 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 24 Monday March 14th, 2022 12:16:06 PM
Zander's eyebrows shoot up as he reads the notice. He sits there stunned for a moment, going over what this meant. He then glares at Stock, "I know for a fact you possess a suit of fine Drow silk made for just these sort of occasions. You can wear your mithril underneath but you are dressing up if I have to dress you myself." He pauses before continuing, "This event would also not a good place to make grand political statements. This event will be as much a social event as anything." ------------- Know Local 12 (take 10) Sense Motive auto pass Know Noble auto pass
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 91/91, AC: 23(15T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis Monday March 14th, 2022 3:46:30 PM "This'll be fun. And while we don't want to be political at this event, we should probably decide if the Shields should endorse an overlord or stay neutral."
DM Robert - If we're sitting at the Cathedral we'll have to behave ourselves, Monday March 14th, 2022 5:43:12 PM
Bartomus gets excited. Stohp decides she needs to look at her dresses. Brittanica goes off to the Star Mages Guild. Stock is not a fashionnesta. Delia wonders about some of the Shields behavior in certain company. Zanderallen threatens Stock. Ohen is up for the challenge. _________________________
Zanderallen has issued a challenge to Stock. How will he respond.
OOC, in a previous adventure the Shields were gifted with fancy spider silk outfits. I"m not sure who was there at the time. SO yes fancy dress is expected, if you don't have one of the following you may need to go out and purchase it. Cleric's Vestments Courtier's Outfit Noble's Outfit Royal Outfit Scholar's Outfit
The other question the group has to consider is do they want to endorse a candidate. Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {That may be best to decide after the 'accepted' candidates are announced by the head cleric of Flower.} Knowledge Local 15 or Knowledge Religion 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {the head priest is a human female named Alexis, she is probably in her early 40's and has long brown hair.}
The Diamond Cathedral on the Open Air level of the Float.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 0/120 AC 21; CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 d20+12=17 ; d20+7=17 ; Monday March 14th, 2022 8:21:13 PM "So wait, Zander is going to dress Stock? Can we get an artist to capture that and maybe Pepper could use that?" Bartomus asked with a very teasing, mocking tone.
"I am going to wear my gift from the drow. Can't get much fancier than the finest of custom-made courtier clothes in spider silk no less." Bartomus offered. "But, I gotta wonder if Stock is on to something with the want to be armored. Not sure if we want to sway the political futures of the Float, unless someone is like the Paragon, then I would be all for that. Also, not sure what can go wrong in a cathedral? I mean, it should be safe right?"
Sense motive - 17; Knowledge Float - 17
Brittanica Mundy (Hugh) HP 87/120 [99 / 132 - w/ con bonus] AC 25 / Touch 17 / Flat 22 CMD 17 d20+24=39 ; d20+12=23 ; d20+5=10 ; Monday March 14th, 2022 11:42:18 PM
Brittanica living the sheltered life of someone who prior to her adventuring career rarely left the Guild decides it is time to buy a nice dress and some jewelry to wear to the ceremony.
She purchases a Courtiers outfit which in her case is a long flowing sleeveless green dress with shoulder straps. She accentuates the ensemble with turquoise and ivory jewelry which she thinks with her red hair the outfit really makes her look nice. She also has the mirror mask which she isn't sure if it fits right with the outfit but she bought the mask before she had to go and play dress up.
She decides to model the outfit for the other shields prior to the ceremony and asks them what they think saying, "It isn't spider silk but I think it gets the job done."
(Know[religion]:39, Know[local]: 23, Sense Motive: 10)
She says, "I don't suppose we can go visit the head priest of Flower Alexis prior to the ceremony? I do have some questions for her or would that be improper?"
(OOC: Brittanica would like to visit Alexis prior to the ceremony if possible)
She also says, "I don't know who I would endorse. I mean anyone but Rothschild is where I am currently at. Elric Storm seemed nice but then again I don't know if we need more than just an economic plan. I am inclined to not endorse anyone at this time but maybe I'll change my mind later?"
(OOC2 : is Elric based off of that guy from Arcane?)
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 67/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Tuesday March 15th, 2022 7:19:06 AM
Stohp would happily loan fancy clothes to those who need it but sadly no one else is a minotaur lady so the clothing wouldn't exactly fit.
Stock (JonM) HP: 159/159; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 33; Rage: 0/33 used d20+12=27 ; d20+3=5 ; Tuesday March 15th, 2022 9:07:15 AM "What!? Mithril isn't enough on the outside? Well my silks won't fit over the mithril so...I guess I'm wearing my drow suit.
I for one will not be endorsing a candidate. We all have our own mind so I won't push that on anybody but to the point of not making any political statements - any statement can be seen as political so mind your tongues.
And for my part I'll try not to get riled up."
=========== Sense Motive 27 Local 5
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 139/139 AC: 30 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 24 Tuesday March 15th, 2022 4:00:34 PM
Zanderallen lets out a breath he didn't know he was holding as Ohen and Stock agree to behave at the event, "I personally plan to stay neutral, but if you have candidates you like don't be afraid to say so. Just be very careful not to be pulled into any statements or promises you'd rather not back. The more we can stay unattached to the council the better."
"While it would not do to be armed and armored for this event, if anyone has any gear they would like brought with the group out of sight, there is extra space in my bag of holding. Which I will be bringing with my gear." ---------------------------- Sense Motive: auto pass Know Religion 21 (take 10 + 11)
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 91/91, AC: 23(15T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis Tuesday March 15th, 2022 5:29:10 PM "I don't know enough about the city to get entangled with politics already. I just thought we should all be on the same page. "We can't bring our weapons and armor Bartomus. We're going to a social event at a cathedral. You people have been adventuring too long, it's starting to show."
DM Robert - And for my part I'll try not to get riled up. Tuesday March 15th, 2022 5:58:38 PM
Bartomus wants to see Zander dress Stock. Brittanica goes shopping and returns to model. Stohp realizes her dresses are only in her size. Stock agrees to dress up. Zanderallen suggest taking some emergency gear in his bag of holding....So I'm envisioning a bag of holding as something the size of a potato sack. How's that going to fit with your clothing.... not like it's a pouch or handy haversack. Ohen claims the party has been adventuring too long and it shows. Delia? _________
OOC 1 - Free knowledge - Alexis is busy with setting things up, she isn't going to have time to see anyone. OOC 2 - Elric is actually based off Elric of Melnibone - a fictional character created by English writer Michael Moorcock and the protagonist of a series of sword and sorcery stories taking place on an alternative Earth. The proper name and title of the character is Elric VIII, 428th Emperor of Melniboné. Elric's sword was called Stormbringer.
The group seems in agreement that they are going to try and avoid any sort of endorsements for now. Perhaps they should have a safety word to say if someone is giving them a hard time and need one of the others to step in. Or maybe plans for mundane conversation diverters.
Banter travels back and forth and Brittanic returns late in the day after doing Guild things and some shopping. She models her dress and jewels.
Some discuss how to pack in some 'precautions'. Things which wouldn't be too obtrusive and maybe blend in with your fancy gear... The magical... Knoweldge Arcane 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Amulet of Mighty Fists, Horn of blasting, any of the magical belts, maybe some of the boots, bracers, or gloves, cloaks, crown of blasting, necklace of fireballs... depends also on what those attending might also recognize and raise an eyebrow about.} The mundane Knowledge Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { things that could be easily hidden in a pouch, boot, etc. Sap, dart, dagger, bullet and sling, shuriken, flask of acid, alchemist fire, tanglefoot bag, thunderstone.}
If nothing else needs doing do you want to be heading to the cathedral tomorrow?
Delia (Hannah) HP: 97/97; AC 24/17/18; CMD 31 Tuesday March 15th, 2022 6:01:23 PM
Delia looks at Zanderallen in horror at the suggestion of replacing arms and armor with formal clothing and glares at Ohen, "Easy for you to say, you can just wiggle your fingers, blow people up, then disappear! Some of us folks still have to protect ourselves the old fashioned way."
Delia will pull out her brown, cleaned "forest" tunic, as she switched to her gray "city" tunic when they got back to the Float. Grumbling about how no nobles were going to make her buy new clothes just because she was suddenly useful to them, she gives Zanderallen her bow, a quiver, and her longsword. Her glare daring him to comment about her wardrobe.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 0/120 AC 21; CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 d20+7=27 ; Tuesday March 15th, 2022 6:31:10 PM
Bartomus thought about a couple things he might be able to hide in his clothes such as a sling, a few of his acorns he could enchant, and a couple of the magical bullets. The latter he could put into his money pouch and go light on the coppers and silver for gold and bullets.
know local 27
Brittanica Mundy (Hugh) HP 87/120 [99 / 132 - w/ con bonus] AC 25 / Touch 17 / Flat 22 CMD 17 d20+24=37 ; d20+12=19 ; Wednesday March 16th, 2022 1:12:05 AM
Brittanica says, "Well there are a number of magical items you could wear openly and probably not have them look askance at you."
She proceeds to list them.
She then continues, "Alternatively there are some small mundane and alchemical items you could probably hide about your person and be all set."
She proceeds to list those options.
She then says, "It isn't Zanderallen or my fault some of you chose professions that require hulking armor to be effective. If it makes any of you feel any better I practically have enough spell slots for two casters given my unique proclivities and will be more than happy to summon backup should something unexpected happen and things get dicey. Honestly though if this ceremony is full of movers and shakers then presumably it will have top notch security no? I'm all for being prepared but what is the worse we are going to face?"
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 67/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Wednesday March 16th, 2022 8:15:43 AM
Stohp sighs but doesn't object to the worries of her comrades. It's like they've never been to a fancy dinner before.
Stock (JonM) HP: 159/159; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 33; Rage: 0/33 used d20+3=13 ; Wednesday March 16th, 2022 9:06:53 AM
Stock can't help but to chuckle over the inherent lack of trust among the group. [b]"Sounds like we're set.
Z - if it's all the same to you, I'll give you my flail to hold."[/i]
========== Local 13
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 91/91, AC: 23(15T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis Wednesday March 16th, 2022 5:06:12 PM
Ohen will go out to the nearest mask shop, buy a mask without hardly looking at it, and return. He will buy the latest local fashion of nobleman's clothes, but use his circlet and headband as the main jewellery. "Yeah, I guess I can wiggle my fingers, blow people up, and then dissappear. It's a little concerning when you put it like that."
Delia (Hannah) HP: 97/97; AC 24/17/18; CMD 31 Wednesday March 16th, 2022 5:32:05 PM Sorry. I've had busy work days with meetings scheduled late in the day. I at least started that post before the DM post was up...
Delia will go with Ohen to the mask shop, realizing that both of their mask shopping was interrupted by Ulrich's struggle. If there's a hawk-ish or bird of prey mask at that shop, she'll pick it. If not, she goes with whatever is left.
On the way to the cathedral, Delia will be wearing a clean tunic over her armor and a dagger strapped to her belt. "Brit, no offense, but I like defending myself with my own hands. Not all of us had an opportunity to get learned in magic, even if we woulda had the inclination for it."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 139/139 AC: 30 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 24 d20+3=18 ; Wednesday March 16th, 2022 5:40:43 PM
Zanderallen accepts the items to be brought if feasible. Preparing himself in his spider silks and meticulously grooming himself he dons his wondrous items and is ready to head out. ------------- (OOC: I've always pictured a bag of holding as a large coin purse. Something that would definitely be noticeable and people certainly might identify, but that wouldn't be that crazy hanging on your belt. If it's that large he wouldn't bring it)
Know Local: 18
DM Robert - "Some of us folks still have to protect ourselves the old fashioned way." Wednesday March 16th, 2022 6:04:56 PM from the description of bag of holding..."This appears to be a common cloth sack about 2 feet by 4 feet in size." So I'm assuming you're not bringing it.
The next day dawns. Fortitude check 15 to avoid having butterflies in your stomach about this whole thing.
Happy himself drops by with a continental breakfast for you. "Hear you received some sort of scroll from the council." He sets out the breakfast of muffins, bread, butter, honey, various jams, a collection of fruit, a few assorted cheeses, some summer sausages, carafes of coffee, tea, orange juice and milk. Eventually he nods and departs.
As noon approaches you can travel up the Float. DM note, because of the structure of the magics and what not holding the Float together, teleporting between levels is not possible. If you are near an 'edge' of the Float you can teleport off the Float, teleporting back on is just going to put you on an edge but you could at least bump floors. Along the way you note people are carrying their masks and congregating along the edges and stairs. You see reporters from the paper, town criers, and a few bards pressed into service at each level to spread the news from top down.
The Open air level is the home to the rich and important as well as the location of the most important of the local temples, The Arena, Diamond Midway, The Underamp and Overlord Palace. Various parks, connecting trails, and roads wind throughout the level showcasing monuments to various heroes and causes. The final assent is made up the under-ramp and there's quite the crowd standing to the sides. You have to beg several pardons but people generally try to step to the side to allow you to pass once they recognize you. You come up facing the arena. Walking the streets you note many are lining the streets. Houses along the way have windows open and servants leaning out watching. The Diamond Cathedral is located at the top of the southwest tower. You can see how it got its name for it appears to be made of glass and jewels. On closer inspection it could me silver and glass. It is It soars into the air perhaps 40 feet.
It is even more congested as you near the cathedral. But again people stand aside when you near. As you approach the door you see two paladins of Flower guarding the doors....well actually they are just standing to either side trying to look impressive.
If you bring the bag of holding this applies. Highlight to display spoiler: {One of them see's you and says specifically to Zanderallen "Uh, do you want to check your bag sir?"}
There's another temple functionary at the door checking invitations. Knowledge Noble 20 or Knowledge Local 20 to have remembered you need to bring the invitations with you. Otherwise it's time to do some diplomacy..,
Trying to peak inside Perception 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {The cathedral is huge, and amazingly bright. Looking in at the back rows you feel under-dressed, people are really in finery. The place is huge, probably sitting 2000 or more.}
Brittanica Mundy (Hugh) HP 120/120 AC 19 / Touch 15 / Flat 19 CMD 17 d20+19=28 ; d20+14=21 ; d20+12=18 ; d20+12=19 ; Wednesday March 16th, 2022 10:19:28 PM
That morning Brittanica works with the 2 'Arries and her cauldron to complete the ritual of warding (28 vs DC 20) and gain +1 to AC and Saves.
She does not have butterfiles (21 vs DC 15) so she eats heartily of the provided meal.
She then changes into her finery and wears her cloak of resistance, headband of intellect, belt of physical might, amulet of natural armor and star mages pendant in addition to the turquoise and ivory jewelry she bought to accentuate the outfit. She carries the mirror mask.
Know [Local]: 18 Know[Nobility]: 19
She does not remember the invitations but she is also not a diplomat so she defers to some of the other members.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 67/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) d20=12 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 8:06:56 AM
Stohp knows to bring the invitation (know local 29) and shows it to the paladins. She's wearing one of her finest dresses and is unarmed. Should something absurd happen that the servants of flower not be able to handle she can always just grapple it into submission.
Stock (JonM) HP: 159/159; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 33; Rage: 0/33 used d20+16=22 ; d20+3=11 ; d20+19=38 ; d20+19=23 ; d20+3=7 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 9:47:21 AM
Stock is in line behind Stohp and feels annoyed when he sees the invitation which, not only did he not bring, he actually threw away back at Silver Shield HQ. If there is any reaction from the guards, he just says, "Clearly you know who we are and if Stohp's supposed to be here, so are the rest of us. If you'll excuse us we need to find our seats inside."
======== Butterfly Save 22 Local 11 Perception 38 23 was a misclick Diplomacy 7
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 0/120 AC 21; CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 d20+7=15 ; d20+15=35 ; d20-1=18 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 11:01:13 AM
Bartomus fidgeted with his courtier's outfit. He shifted and turned and then decided it looked as good as it was going to look. It was rather fancy by his standards and as a gift from the Drow court, he felt that it would be more than appropriate for visiting the cathedral. He grabbed his mask and headed down the stairs to join the others not realizing the small personal scroll with his invitation was left on the floor.
He followed along with the others and was excited to see what the cathedral would look like on the inside. He imagined it would be filled with people, decorations, and that fueled his nervous excitement. As they got closer to the large doors, he saw that those in the line were showing their invitations. He shifted his large bear mask and began trying to find his invite. He couldn't find it. He glanced up and over the crowd and through the opened doors. The cathedral looked beautiful. It was huge and light streamed in from all directions it seemed to him. That same light revealed that those seated at the back closest to the doors were dressed better than he was. That made him fidget even more.
Stohp and Stock were the first to talk with the guard and the finely dressed temple functionary checking invites.
"I think in all of the excitement to be here on time, we forgot our invitations. I am really sorry, I just have never been invited to something like this, and seems the Silver Shields may need to take a few classes in special event protocols." Bartomus spoke up and tried to offer an explanation for their obvious faux paus.
Knowledge Float - 15; Perception 35; diplomacy 18 with a minus one, wow! If it isn't enough to help, willing to toss in a hero point to boost that
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 139/139 AC: 30 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 24 Thursday March 17th, 2022 2:24:31 PM
Zanderallen reluctantly leaves behind the bag of holding. Paladins of Flower were decent enough, K was the only one he could ever take seriously of their kind though. Outwardly he is all smiles and good cheer as they wade through the sea of opulence, but on the inside he can't help but think about the differences in walking the Open Air versus the Fence.
As they approach the functionary at the front door he produces the invitations for all the Shield members who never thought to grab theirs. "Here you go, sir." -------------------- Know Nobility 20 (Take 10 +10)
Delia (Hannah) HP: 97/97; AC 24/17/18; CMD 31 d20+10=27 ; d20+22=29 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 3:36:23 PM
Delia, stubbornly attired in her armor (though worn under her tunic) and with a dagger strapped to her belt, is not terribly concerned with what the nobility thinks of her and has no more than her regular amount of nerves in unfamiliar crowd. She did, however, come without Hawky. Well-trained though he is, she didn't want any fragile nerved noble freaking out and bothering them.
As they approach the doors, she looks around in concern as the invitations are checked. But she settles, seeing Zanderallen holding a handful of scrolls. "Now it makes sense why they sent each of us one..." she mutters to no one in particular.
She looks through the doors, eyes widening at the finery and crowd. Well, she thinks to herself, No way I could compete with that amount of fancy, so I'm glad I didn't waste money to have tried.
===== Butterflies check: 27 Perception: 29
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 91/91, AC: 23(15T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis d20+8=9 ; d20+17=28 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 5:17:28 PM
Ohen, despite being extremely social is uncomfortable and says nothing.
Fortitude: 9 Perception: 28
DM Robert - "Now it makes sense ..." Thursday March 17th, 2022 6:06:46 PM
Brittanica is ready. Stohp is ready and has her invitation. Stock is ready and slightly unwilling. Bartomus is ready but realizes he forgot something. Zanderallen is ready and has the shields covered. Delia exhibits a stubborn streak. Ohen has the butterflies.
Fill free to 'whisper' to each other about things you may learn from the various rolls. As well as any other roleplaying you want to do. _______
The door greeter nods accepting your invitations and snaps his fingers. A young man dressed in clerics vestments jumps from the shadows. "Take these gentle beings to row 4 please. Center." The young man gives a half bow. "This way sirs and mams."
Inside you see that there are 3 aisle of pews, left, center and right. The page leads you forward. #1Perception 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {you hear people whisper, 'I think those are the Silver Shields.' 'Yeah that's the silver shields, I met them once.' etc.}
You are shown your pew, row 4 center. You note that the pew is cushioned and should be wide enough to accommodate the large sized members of your party as well. However, those sitting directly behind them may have some trouble seeing. Then you see that there is a large stage/dias and podium and such that anyone would be able to see over the taur's to the stage. Directly in front of you sits the current Overlord members of the city council not running for office. The front pew is occupied by the people running for Overlord. #2 Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Most people around you look to be the citizens living on the upper open air level, you don't recognize anyone. Most are talking quietly about mundane things.}
There is a wait as more people are seated and things are prepped. #1 Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Most people around you seem unperturbed by the wait, this must be normal operating procedure.}
At last the doors close. A hush falls over the crowd. You see the head priests of all the temples on the Float proceed up the dias. They arrange themselves in a semi circle around the central podium. Alexis, the high priestess of Flower comes from the back and steps between the priests, in roughly the center of the semi-circle but not quite at the podium. All priests in the semi-circle begin casting. #1Spellcraft 18 Highlight to display spoiler: {They appear to be casting Prayer} Alexis then begins casting. #2Spellcraft 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {It appears to be a modified form of Commune}
Alexis is bathed in a golden nimbus of light. She steps forward. "Only one candidate has the blessing of the gods."
The audience rumbles, shouts out. Several of the candidates stand in protest. It takes her standing there for most of a minute before can hear her again and she says.
“I speak only the words Flower has given me.”
She closes her eyes for a moment and continues. The glow returns. She starts over from the beginning. “Only one candidate has the blessing of the gods. But this ONE does not have your blessing yet. On election day, you may vote for or against this candidate. If you vote against this approved one, the current Overlord will still have to descend to become the Underlord. But she will declare a regent to preside over the council until the next election." She pauses “This candidate is , Drezz Dinoryn. merchant, artist, and member of the Lords of Diamonds!"
There is a shocked silence. #2 Sense Motive Highlight to display spoiler: {All HECK is about to break loose.}
Who or what are the Lords of Diamond, if you live on the float you've heard of them. Even if you don't live on the Float you've heard rumors of a secret society on the Float. What you've heard, that's the question. Either chose one of the rumors below or roll a d3 to determine what you've heard. Honor system, don't look at the other options. Roleplay what you know from now on during the module. Stick to it.
Rumors about the Lords of Diamond
#1 Highlight to display spoiler: {They are the rich elite that control the economics of the city. They want to extend their control of other cities' economies.}
#2 Highlight to display spoiler: {They are made up of all the intellectuals of the city and seek to control the world for some unknown purpose, but it can’t be good.}
#3 Highlight to display spoiler: {They are made up of people that have secret knowledges of ancient engineering and they are the descendants of the builders of the Float. Why they live in secret among you is unknown, perhaps it is a grand experiment.}
Brittanica Mundy (Hugh) HP 120/120 AC 19 / Touch 15 / Flat 19 CMD 17 d20=1 ; d20=4 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+24=40 ; d20+24=36 ; d20+5=24 ; d3=2 ; d20+24=38 ; d20+24=25 ; d20+24=40 ; Friday March 18th, 2022 2:21:39 AM
Perception1: 1 vs 15 = fail Perception 2: 4 vs 20 = fail Sense Motive: 24 vs 20 = pass Spellcraft 1: 40 vs 18 = pass Spellcraft 2: 36 vs 20 = pass Sense Motive 2: 24 vs 20? = pass
Brittanica follows the Ushers and takes a seat at the indicated pew.
As the time drags on and people take their seats Brittanica whispers to her companions, "At least the wait is normal"
When the priest begin their casting she whispers to her companions, "They are casting prayer"
When Alexis begins her casting she whispers, "She's casting Commune but it has been modified in some way, Interesting, now I definitely want to talk to her about that."
After Alexis makes her decree, she says, "This could get dicey. Maybe some of you should have worn mithril afterall"
(OOC: rumor = #2)
Brittanica is rankled that the Flower endorsed candidate is a member of the Lords of Diamond. Here she is one of the smartest people that she knows and seeing as how they are made up of the intellectuals here in the float it had always bothered her that no one had ever asked HER to join. Granted she didn't want to take over the world, just learn all there was to know about it, but still she should have at least had the option whether to join them or not seeing as she herself was an INTELLECTUAL being a wizard, blood witch, Master Mage in the Star Mages Guild and polyglot. Then again she never exactly saw herself as a Silver Shield either until she was asked to join them. Perhaps the Lords of Diamond started looking at her around the same time she was tapped to join the Silver Shields and they have some policy that precludes active adventurers because they in fact really were up to no good? Then again they did call themselves Lords of Diamond, maybe they were an old boys club and didn't like her because she was a woman and a smart one at that.
Brittanica whispers to the other Shields, "I don't trust the Lords of Diamond. Here they are a group of Float based intellectuals and they never once thought about asking me to join them. Now I don't want to rule the world, mind you, just learn all I could possibly learn about it, but I should have at least had the opportunity to be asked and turn them down considering my Intelligence level. Clearly they are up to no good and their aspirations of global domination are for nefarious purposes. Maybe they were intimidated by my strong moral compass seeing as how I'm an adventurer with you guys or maybe they are a misogynist old boys club and are intimidated by women who are both strong and smart? Either way whatever they are up to cannot possibly be good and if they are really that intelligent then they probably do have casters amongst them. Perhaps they figured out some way to hijack that modified Communion spell Alexis cast and get their boy Drezz Dinoryn.rigged in there as the only Flower endorsed candidate?"
She then starts wondering if is indeed theoretically possible to hijack a modified Communion spell and insert an altered message from the Gods. She also wonders if there is a way to do so such that the receiver on the other end isn't aware of the tampering.
She then says, "I've said it before and I'll say it again. I defintely want to speak to Alexis now."
Stock (JonM) HP: 159/159; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 33; Rage: 0/33 used d20+12=20 ; d3=1 ; Friday March 18th, 2022 9:18:28 AM
Stock relaxes when Z somehow pulls out his discarded invitation. Finding his seat he is bemused by both the recognition from some and the lack of recognition from others at their presence. He whispers to Delia, "Sometimes I wonder how people look at us in this town...are we vigilantes or heroes...or both maybe?"
He watches the ceremony with interest, studying the various priests. When the announcement is made, he is satisfied that the situation is resolved and is about to stand when he realizes that stuff's about to go down. Listening to Brittanica he responds,
"I think you're overstating The Diamonds' importance. They're just a bunch of rich guys that think they make the money flow. I don't think I've ever met one so I can't really say whether this is good or bad. I do think it would be a gutsy move to try to change the message of a god though. I feel like that's the type of thing that gets you struck by a bolt of lightning from above."
============ Perception Autopass Perception Autopass Sense Motive 20 Rumor 1
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 67/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) d20+17=35 ; d20+17=37 ; d20+13=24 ; d20+13=17 ; Friday March 18th, 2022 10:39:33 AM
Stohp is able to overhear the whispers without even really trying (35 and 37). She waits calmly like the others (sense motive 24) but misses how tense everything gets (sense motive 17. When the others start expressing their concerns and theories she rolls her eyes. Yes clearly it's all a plot because they didn't invite Brittanica and involved complicated magical shenanigan's instead of good old fashion bribery.
Quietly, but firmly, she tells the group, "How about we discuss this after the very important ceremony finishes? It'll be easier then whispering in the dark here."
She's heard the 3rd rumor, but knows better then to put stock in it. All kinds of wild theories show up around any secret society.
Delia (Hannah) HP: 97/97; AC 24/17/18; CMD 31 d20+4=8 ; d20+4=5 ; d20+4=10 ; Friday March 18th, 2022 11:34:03 AM
As they are seated, Delia sorts through the whispers and pushes them to the background when there's nothing interesting. She snorts at Stock's comment, "Depends on what their intentions are, I reckon."
Once the one candidate announcement is made, her hand strays to her dagger and she will scan Alexis and the other priests to see if any of them look guilty, not surprised etc (Sense Motive 10, 14 if human)
Delia leans over to Brit, "Supposedly, they only invite descendents folks who built the Float as members. So that could be why they never invited you. Folks like to talk about their secret knowledge about engineering and such. Maybe they know how the Float... floats."
======= Autopass perception 1 & 2 Sense Motive 1: 8 Sense Motive 2: 5 Rumor 3 known
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 139/139 AC: 30 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 24 d20+7=20 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+19=26 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+5=15 ; d20+19=27 ; d6=6 ; Friday March 18th, 2022 12:10:33 PM
Zanderallen smiles as people seem to recognize them, he wonders what the opinion of the Shields was on the upper levels. He ponders it a little as they wait in their seats for the ceremony to begin.
He watches the ritual with interest. When Alexis makes her opening statement the hair on the back of his neck stands up as he can feel the energy of the crowd. He whispers to the others, "Keep together, this may be a fancy crowd but it can still turn into a mob." His eyebrows shoot to the top of his forehead when Brit shares the spell has been modified.
When Alexis makes her full pronouncement he very quickly goes into danger mode as he can feel the energy of the crowd growing around him. He reflexively reaches for his weapon before awkwardly letting his hand dangle as it finds no comfort at his empty hip.
He whispers quickly to the others, "This is about to get ugly, keep calm, keep together, and please don't break anyone. The Lords of Diamonds are supposedly the descendants of those who built this place and know how it works. Something is going on if they are getting involved." ------------------- Perception 20 pass Perception 18 fail Sense Motive 26 pass Spellcraft 24 pass Spellcraft 15 fail Sense Motive 27 pass d6 = 6 3rd rumor
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 91/91, AC: 23(15T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis d20+17=28 ; d20+17=24 ; d20+1=2 ; d20+16=17 ; d20+16=17 ; d20=17 ; d20=2 ; d20=11 ; d20=7 ; d20=7 ; d20=14 ; d20=4 ; Friday March 18th, 2022 12:30:35 PM
Ohen has little to add since he's rolled 4 ONES IN 7 ROLLS. "Does it matter if the Commune has been modified? We only have her word what Flower said anyway. What I mean to say is even if it was a regular old Commune she could just lie about it for mysterious Lords of Diamonds reasons." ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Perc 1: 28 Perc 1: 24 Sense: 2 Spellcraft 1: 17 Spellcraft 2: 17 Rumor 3 D20 testing
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 0/120 AC 21; CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 d20+15=32 ; d20+15=28 ; d20+12=15 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+4=20 ; d20+12=18 ; d3=1 ; Friday March 18th, 2022 11:41:31 PM
Bartomus sighed in relief at Zander's save with him showing up with everyone's invitation scrolls. He gave Zander a smile and thankful nod as they followed the page who led them through the cathedral and up to almost the front of the cathedral. As he walked forward he could hear some of the folks pointing at them and identifying them as the Shields. He smiled, gave a wink or a slight wave to some of the folks who mentioned them. When the page pointed to their row, he shifted inward and took a seat. He shifted about and turned back to those behind him.
"Sorry, which way would be best for me to sit to make sure you all can see? He asked over his shoulder. When he got an answer he agreed to try sitting in a manner that didn't block the view of the others. However, he was absolutely certain that he had no clue as to who any of the folks about him actually were. Well, he thought to himself, except for his fellow Shields. As others took their seats, Bartomus was looking about the building's interior his mouth slightly agape in awe as he took it all in.
The doors shut and Bartomus turned his attention to the dias. He worked on trying to remember who was representing which temple. He wasn't sure what they were all working on, but when the high priestess of Flower started casting he was pretty sure they were trying to talk with Flower directly.
When she said only one of the candidates had the blessing of the gods, the place went nuts. Bartomus listened, watched, and shrugged. When the room quieted, all eyes turned back to Alexis including Bartomus.
When she mentioned who the one candidate was, Drezz Dinoryn, Bartomus' eyes went wide. He was pretty sure he knew of their work. There were a lot of artists, but the name sounded familiar. He had heard rumors, though, that the richie, rich, rich folks of the Lords of Diamonds were all about the gold and controlling how it was made and by whom. He looked about sensing that there were others that were not happy about this revelation by Flower.
DM Robert - "This is about to get ugly, keep calm, keep together, and please don't break anyone." Saturday March 19th, 2022 12:08:20 PM
Brittanica is intrigued by the spell. the spell is "modified" because it's giving more than yes no answers to questions, which is typical of Commune, I could not find one that specifically does what needed doing. Stock is unperturbed. Stohp feels all secret societies are a bit off. Delia feels that Alexis is truly speaking the word of Flower. Zanderallen feels the tension in the air. Ohen is a bit overwhelmed by it all. Bartomus ponders on Drezz briefly. ___________
Bedlam erupts! Shouts, "It's a plot!" "OH MY!" "Unheard of!" "Let's get him!" pushing and shoving. The candidates seem even angrier. Marcus Rothchild actually pushes Drezz from behind and Gerard Gilcrest takes a swing at him. Drezz is in shock. He shouts, “No! I’m not a member! I’m not! Believe me!” Elric Storm twists a ring on his finger and disappears.
Spellcraft 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Elric used teleport}
Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You see the glint of steel appearing in hands around you, definitely some knives coming out.}
Knowledge Local 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Drezz Dinoryn grew up in Floating City and his parents used to be ambassadors from It’lal the Surface Drow city WAY back in the day before the city appeared to drop all contact with them. The parents haven't been around in decades. He's tall and skinny. Has a bit of a crooked smile. Owns an art studio and gallery called The Last Inspiration somewhere on the Merchant level. ps it's not actually listed anywhere so that's where i'm going to say it is.}
The doors to the temple bang open and you spot several people heading out, shouts of "The gods endorse Drezz Dinoryn and he's apparently one of them Lords of Diamond!" People in the temple around you start making rabble rabble noises.
The Overlord, Aerashkiel sitting just in front of your turns around saying, “The Lords Of Diamond will kill him if the audience doesn’t! Get him out of here! Now!” She points her finger. “Your responsibility! Go! I’ll send word to Shield House as soon as I can!”
Time to decide what to do, and start doing it. The rabble is still pretty disorganized, and being on the upper end of the social scale not necessarily used to doing things for themselves. Drezz will be pretty bussable, meaning he'll go where you shove him or drag him.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 0/120 AC 21; CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 d20+15=23 ; d20+7=14 ; d20+15=25 ; Saturday March 19th, 2022 7:21:33 PM "This isn't going to go well." Bartomus said as he continued to watch the upset crowd. "I see steel teeth. We need to get out of here."
Then the Overlord called out to them and ordered the Shields to get Dizzy out of the cathedral.
"If we are going to move him, we need to do it now." Bartomus looked at the dias and tried to see if there might be a way behind it to get out of the cathedral quickly. He started moving towards the confused nominee.
Perception 23; KnowLocal 14; Perception door search 25
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 67/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) d20+17=29 ; d20+16=20 ; d20=15 ; Sunday March 20th, 2022 8:47:15 AM
Stohp sighs as people overreact and she sees knives come out. (perception 20, knowledge local 20). She knows about Drezz and it doesn't seem like murder is the appropriate response. "Here." she says as she slaps her Hat of Disguise on him. "Picture yourself as someone else. My hat will change your looks and make it easier for us to get you out of here". (he gets +20 to disguise checks - even a minimum effort will make it hard to spot him and lynch him).
"Closest exit is best. Let Flower's people control the crowd, our job is just to leave as quickly as possible. If there's a crowd heading out the closest entrance all the better for us to blend in."
Brittanica says to Stohp, "You're going to have to carry me out of here. I'm going to try to use magic jar to possess Drezz Dinoryn and magic him out of here."
She then burns 1 5th level bloodwitch spell slot (OOC: edited; forgot that Illusion was my other opposition school not necromancy) to cast Magic Jar and attempts to possess Drezz Dinoryn's body assuming that since Rothschild pushed him forward he is somewhat isolated from the other candidates. Drezz needs to make a DC 23 will save; failure puts Drezz's soul in the gem that Brittanica has on her person and Brittanica's conscioiusness enter's Drezz's body. Success means that Brtittanica is still inside the jar and Drezz is immune from further possession attempts.
Assuming she is successful she then herocially casts Word of Recall using a 6th level bloodwitch slot and teleport her consciousness inside of Drezz's body back to the sanctuary of the Shield House.
Stock (JonM) HP: 159/159; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 33; Rage: 0/33 used d20+3=19 ; Monday March 21st, 2022 8:57:54 AM
Stock moves quickly with Stohp to Drezz's side and barks out to Z, "How did all of these people get to bring knives? All I wanted was to bring my flail and not even have it handy but we decide to follow all the laws."
He takes up position and will hold back anybody who tries to approach Drezz.
"Hey Rothchild! How's it going? I wouldn't recommend pushing this guy again. Whoa there Gilcrest, that seems excessive."
======== [i]Autopass perception Local 19
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 139/139 AC: 30 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 24 d20+5=23 ; d20+7=22 ; d20+3=9 ; Monday March 21st, 2022 10:09:47 AM
Zanderallen swears loudly as people start talking about murdering Drezz and knifes come out. He doesn't let that stop him from acting as several people speak up with ideas at once. He's not a huge fan of the magic Brit is using but if it gets the job done he's not going to argue too loudly. With minimal effort he throws her over a shoulder in fireman's carry. He then leaps the benches in front of him to close rank around Drezz's position, making sure to give Rothchild a friendly shoulder on the way by. He points to the closest exit door, "Stock you're point, anybody stops us from getting out that door use the fists Domi gave you. We've got to get to Shield House before the Lords of Diamond do. I don't want to come home to another murder scene." ---------------------------------- Spellcraft 5 Perception 22 Local 9
Brit with equipment looks like she'll barely put Zander at a medium load. So less encumbered than his normal armor and still at 30ft move from his boots of S&S
Delia (Hannah) HP: 97/97; AC 24/17/18; CMD 31 d20+14=27 ; Monday March 21st, 2022 10:22:26 AM
Delia, seeing the light glinting off the knives in people's hands, springs to action. She lets loose a piercing whistle (...animal handling? 27) and bellows, "Everyone, listen!" and elbows Zanderallen hard. She starts towards Drezz, hoping Zander has enough clout to stop a riot before it begins.
If Brittanica successfully possesses Drezz, Delia will firemans carry her fellow Shield's body out. If a higher strength party member offers, Delia will pass Brit over.
============ Autosucceed perception Whistle: roll 13 +14 if animal handling applies Heavy load capacity 175, with the gear Delia and presumably Brit have left at HQ, I should be right around 175, meaning AC is reduced to 19 & speed is 25ft
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 91/91, AC: 23(15T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis Monday March 21st, 2022 11:22:24 AM
Ohen will cast Haste on the Shields as they close around Drezz's position, muttering something about not ever leaving his metamagic rods behind again. He will then wait and see if Brittanica's magic works.
DM Robert - "This is about to get ugly, keep calm, keep together, and please don't break anyone." d20+7=15 ; Monday March 21st, 2022 5:32:44 PM
Bartomus ponders exits. Stohp slaps her hat of disguise on Drez. Brittanica casts A spell Keep the hero point, if you recall I posted on Wednesday the 16th, you CANNOT teleport between levels. He fails his save. Stock moves in. Zanderallen grabs Brittanica's body. Delia elbows Zanderallen and takes Brittanica's body. Ohen casts haste. _________________
I reiterate since apparently not everyone is reading the posts carefully. DM note, because of the structure of the magics and what not holding the Float together, teleporting between levels is not possible. If you are near an 'edge' of the Float you can teleport off the Float, teleporting back on is just going to put you on an edge but you could at least bump floors.
Even as the Shields take position the ceremony continues. The old High Priest of Alemi moves to the podium in a calm but trained speaking voice says, “Ladies and Gentlemen. This concludes Blessing Day.” He then holds up his mask, which looks like all other Priest of Alemi masks, and shouts with joy, “YOU MAY DON YOUR MASKS! MAY THE GODS BE WITH ALL OF US.”
Everyone slips on their masks....not doing so would attract everyone's attention.
Bartomus realizes there are probably other exits but having been in other temples in the past realizes that the hallways and such behind the dais would more than likely be an effective maze to anyone that wasn't familiar with the Diamond Temple. The easiest path is going to be the way you came in, straight down the aisle and out the door you are just outside the Diamond Temple at the V of Diamond and Midway streets. The underramp is the only way to foot travel off this level.
Choose your path or try to do something else unexpected.
Brittanica Mundy (Hugh) HP 120?/120? AC 19? / Touch 15? / Flat 19? CMD 17? Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 1:44:21 AM
(OOC 1: what are my new physical stats now that I am inside of Drizz? The body retains its Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, hit points, natural abilities, and automatic abilities; You keep your Intelligence, Wisdom, Charisma, level, class, base attack bonus, base save bonuses, alignment, and mental abilities)
(OOC 2: I thought teleportation worked because it worked for Elric Storm...I'm so confused)
She says to the party, "It's me Brittanica, the spell worked. I can't teleport so I'm going Ethereal. You won't be able to see me but I'll try to keep up with you guys"
Brittanica casts Find the Path on Bartomus specifying Shield house as the destination, he should be able to guide the party to the shortest path to take to get to Shield House even if that means braving those twisty corridors.
Brittanica dons whatever mask Drizz was holding when she took over the body. She then heroically uses a 6th level bloodwitch spell to cast Ethereal Jaunt making her well Ethereal.
Ethereal Brittanica in Drizz's body then heroically casts Elemental Body I turning her into a small air elemental with +2 to Dex, a 60 foot fly speed of perfect +2 natural armor, darkvision 60 feet and the ability to create a whirl wind
As a small hasted air elemental with a 90 foot fly speed she can move 45 feet while ethereal giving her plenty of speed in order to keep up with the party.
Her plan is to keep pace with the party getting a little bit above them if she can while remaining Ethereal for the next 11 rounds
She also wants to cast the following buffs at a rate of 1 per round unless she detects some kind of danger to her ethereal self in which case she might heroically start casting faster: bear's endurance false life mage armor mirror image stoneskin barkskin shield of faith deathward
Active Effects: Bartomus (Find the Path) - The recipient of this spell can find the shortest, most direct physical route to Shield House Find the path works with respect to locations, not objects or creatures at a locale. The location must be on the same plane as the subject at the time of casting. The spell enables the subject to sense the correct direction that will eventually lead it to its destination, indicating at appropriate times the exact path to follow or physical actions to take. For example, the spell enables the subject to sense what cavern corridor to take when a choice presents itself. The spell ends when the destination is reached or the duration (110 minutes) expires, whichever comes first
Haste - +30 foot move speed; +1 Reflex Save; +1 AC Ethereal Jaunt - Ethereal 11 rounds Elemental Body 1 - 11 minutes - +2 Dex, +2 Natural AC, 60 foot fly speed (perfect) 60 foot darkvision, ability to create whirlwinds Magic Jar - 11 hours; possesses Drizz's body
Bloodwitch Spell slots: All 0th 1st: 6 unused +comprehend languages unused 2nd: 6 unused +detect thoughts unused 3rd: 6 unused+speak with dead unused 4th: 5 unused+divination unused 5th: 2 unused+true seeing unused; 1 used 6th: 1 unused+find the path used; 1 used
Current spells prepared 0th: Toros Taur Try, Read Magic, Light (takes 2 slots) 1st: magic missile (takes 2 slots), mage armor, shield, grease, ray of enfeeblement + feather fall 2nd: acid arrow, glitterdust, false life, hideous laughter, mirror image (2 slots) + Bear's Endurance 3rd:summon monster III, arcane sight, fireball(takes 2 slots), gaseous form+ haste 4th:summon monster IV, black tentacles, greater invisibility (takes 2 slots), dimension door + elemental body 1 - cast 5th: summon monster V, telekinesis, hold monster+ overland flight
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 67/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 7:25:04 AM
Possessing a stranger without permission to protect them also seems overkill but Stohp isn't going to start that argument now. It's time to be leaving.
Stock (JonM) HP: 159/159; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 33; Rage: 0/33 used d20+19=34 ; Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 9:14:22 AM Effects: Haste
Stock hears Brittanica's "voice" come from Drizz and sees Brittanica's body slump and is pretty confused. "Come on Drezz. We need to move as a group toward the exit."
Stock starts barking at anybody in his way to move it. "Official Shield Business. Move it or lose it." He doesn't push anybody...but certainly makes some bodily contact.
He slips his mask on and moves his way to the exit.
============ Intimidate 34 to get people out of our way
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 0/120 AC 21; CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 d20+7=13 ; d20+15=27 ; Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 10:19:18 AM
Bartomus pulled on his bear mask as he hears Brittanica's voice coming from Drizz.
Ok, well that's a new one, he thought to himself.
Looking about, he got a strong sense of the best way to head out from the dais and joined Stock.
"We gotta head that way, it's the quickest way back to HQ. Just know it, let's not ask how." Bartomus said as he pointed to the exit that he was getting the clear indication that that was the way to go.
He tried also shouting at those that might not have heard Stock's warning, but he came off a lot less intimidating. He kept scanning about the area looking for any shift of those upset coming at them.
Going the direction that the spell is indicating, thanks Brittanica. Intimidate - 13; Percetion 27
Delia (Hannah) HP: 97/97; AC 24/17/18; CMD 31 d20-1=2 ; Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 1:20:33 PM should have refreshed so I saw Z's post... my bad on that Seeing that Zanderallen is carrying Brit, she would have just moved with the party
Delia slips her mask on, forming up with the Shields. She keeps a hand on her dagger to make sure no one else draws it, but just keeps pace with Stock and tries to physically back him up, but she doesn't seem very scary.
She asks the party, "Once we break from the crowd, I can run ahead and scout HQ to see if danger has beat us there."
============ intimidate aid: 2
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 139/139 AC: 30 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 24 d20+6=13 ; Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 4:18:44 PM
Zanderallen uses his free hand to slip his mask on awkwardly, hoping Brit not wearing hers will be unnoticed with her hair hanging over her face. His anger is mounting about this whole situation but he keeps outwardly calm as he falls in with the middle of the group, "Brit, I hope you know what you're doing because we can't see who we're supposed to be protecting either." He growls at anyone blocking their path, aiding Stock in verbally clearing a path to avoid physically clearing a path. ------------------- Intimidate Aid 13 - +2 to Stock
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