DM BrianZ Sunday March 27th, 2022 10:45:42 PM
The group arrives at the Hollow Pit. There is some mention that if the group is to stick together, then maybe they will need a name at some point.
The Hollow Pit is located in the Nightmare Quarter, near The Black Gate. A multi-storied complex, it even has a small tower.
Mavros greets you warmly and directs the servant to get some refreshments. Mavros chuckles at Myre's query. Ahem, no, no, I am not Jason. Though there is a mage here by that name. So, what brings you to my school at this late hour? Certainly it is not unusual for some of my students to keep many waking hours after dark, but it is unusual for us to receive guests. At any hour really.
Mavros is a middle-aged gnome, and he eyes you curiously while twirling his gray moustache.
OOC-please indicate if your character has entered the mage school or has remained outside.(If you haven't already) Musetta will remain outside or join you inside if there is a preference. Nintos does recall a necromancer named Mavros who parted ways with the Star Mages Guild.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Sunday March 27th, 2022 11:40:44 PM It's nothing too concerning, really, says Muuru. My excitable friend and I have been asked to look into some suspicious activity in the area, and we heard that Jason may be able to give us some information. We'd wait until morning, but you know how much happens in this neighborhood after dark.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Sunday March 27th, 2022 11:44:30 PM
[ooc: Obviously, Fingers went inside.]
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Monday March 28th, 2022 9:17:22 AM
To Rhys: Was this where we were bringing the body, or should I drop it off somewhere?
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 d20+2=10 ; Monday March 28th, 2022 10:55:03 AM
Rhys waits outside, wrapped in his cloak and hidden from view in one of the alcoves near the entrance to the school. (Stealth 10)
(OOC Grothic, the body has already been collected by the Black Cathedral…you no longer have it with you)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 Monday March 28th, 2022 2:34:24 PM
Paige approaches the door to the edifice after Fingers and Myre have entered the building. Pulling the door partway open, she spots a waiting room with some couches and her companions speaking with a gnome who seems nice enough - and he called for refreshments!
Paige beckons for those outside the building to follow her, as she passes through the door and into the waiting room. The cleric will take a seat on one of the couches and scan the titles of the books on the nearest end table.
Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - CMD:13 - HP:11/11 - Spells Monday March 28th, 2022 6:06:47 PM
Fen heads in and looks around
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Monday March 28th, 2022 7:50:00 PM
[Ooc] My bad. My last post can be deleted. I'm not ad caught up as I'd like.
Grothic enters. Since it's late, Grothic gives Musetta five of his silver coins. Go get food and come back, if you think you can do it safely. If not, we will find you something when we're done here.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Monday March 28th, 2022 9:45:35 PM
Kwarsk will wait until the other seven have entered, and then move to a position near the front door, watching and observing all who come to enter.
IF any appear to come bearing arms, Kwarsk will then enter the building, and then look to find his companions and stand between them and any threat.
Kwarsk is otherwise still nonchalantly standing around with a tower shield pretending not to be watching passersby for signs of threats.
Something strange is a foot(DM BrianZ) Monday March 28th, 2022 10:22:33 PM
Musetta shakes her head at Grothic. At this time of night? It isn't safe. Walik said to never wander around at night, especially near the Scar.
Oblivious to events outside, Mavros replies. Suspicious? Well, we are in the Nightmare Quarter after all, eh? The servant returns with refreshments. A tray loaded with cheese, fruit and nuts. He has also brought a bottle of cheap wine and fresh water to drink. With a bow he turns to leave, and Mavros calls after him. Thank you Carmine. Oh, and please see if Jason is about, I think these people would like to speak with him.
Carmine leaves the room with a nod, and you notice a slightly odd shuffle to his walking posture.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Monday March 28th, 2022 11:56:30 PM
Muuru shakes his head. The one time we agree to stay together, its to ambush a potential lead. He takes a glass of water and some nuts, takes a seat on the floor (away from Mavros) and speaks to Myre.
When this fellow comes out, we want to know if he knows how to make a sleep potion that would affect elves. And we'd like to know where we'd get any special ingredients or equipment. And does he know anybody who might be involved with that.
Now, he lowers his voice, what we really want to know is, is he involved. Don't ask him outright, but feel free to scare him into sneaking out to warn his buddies. One of our teammates outside will follow him
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Tuesday March 29th, 2022 11:20:45 AM
Rhys shakes his head as most of the party heads into the school “hadn’t we agreed to only send in one or two?” the cloaked elf thinks to himself. He briefly contemplates going in with the rest but decides to stick with the plan and see if the overwhelming presence inside the school flushes anyone out. If that’s the case, he will follow as stealthily as possible.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 d20+3=6 ; Tuesday March 29th, 2022 12:14:00 PM Myre briefly wonders if she's Murru's "excitable friend". She looks around, trying to see if he might be talking about someone else.
"Excitable? Am I excitable?" she thinks to herself. "I thought I was being rather subdued."
No matter. Myre helps herself to fruit and water if they've been offered. Wouldn't want to help herself to this gnome's dinner. She makes a point to look around. "Mavros...I'm Myre, by the way, of House Av..." She stops herself, and her face betrays her when a flash of irritation (obviously directed at herself) crosses it. She regains her composure in less than a second and continues. "Just Myre." She looks down when she realizes her hands are moving. Sure enough, there's Waddles, free from her pack and enjoying Myre's affection as much as a rubber pig can. "And this is Waddles, though I'm not sure how he got out."
She wanders, genuinely taking the place in and looking for anything that catches her eye. She must be distracted, though (perception 6). "I'm new to this area, Mavros. What do you teach here? This is a school, yes?"
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 d20+6=8 ; Tuesday March 29th, 2022 12:46:56 PM
Paige helps herself to some refreshments - a little of everything - except for the drink. She studies the servant, Carmine (Perception=8) but isn’t sure what she sees. She returns to studying the titles of the books on the nearby end table.
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 8/8 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:12 CMB:0 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:3 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 Tuesday March 29th, 2022 2:20:20 PM
Hearing the name Mavros, Nintos recalls hearing about the gnome who parted ways with the Star Mages Guild I wonder if he broke any of our ideals, or if he left due to other ambitions.. Nintos follows those who go inside.
Seeing the refreshments, Nintos helps himself, and takes a little extra for Merletta; “Thanks you Mavros, your hospitality at this time of night is most gracious.”
Looking around at the room, Nintos chimes in when Mavros sends away for Jason. “Mavros, I am a teacher also. I find myself in the employ from time to time as a tutor or an aid. I am always looking for something more long term. What is it that you teach here at The Hollow Pit?”
He picks out good pieces of fruit and nuts for Merletta and feeds them to her.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Tuesday March 29th, 2022 5:59:49 PM
Grothic suddenly remembered his part of the plan was to stay outside. He walks out.
Something strange is a foot(DM BrianZ) Tuesday March 29th, 2022 9:51:43 PM
Musetta remains outside with Grothic. She spends as much time as everyone else looking around, as if expecting trouble to hop out of a shadow at any time.
Mavros' face brightens as you ask him about the Hollow Pit. Yes, indeed this is a school. You see I studied and even taught for a little bit with the Star Mages. But they wouldn't approve some of the experiments I wanted to try and so I struck out on my own. A handful of students came with me, and I've picked up a few more since then. This school specializes in Necromancy.
There, I can see it in your faces. Not the most prestigious field of study. But I feel it has much to offer that is often overlooked. I'm sure we would be much more appreciated if we can find an arcane cure for some of the ailments which can only be tended by priests currently. Necromancy deals not just with death, but also with life. I intend to prove that it is possible for good necromancy magic to exist alongside that which you are probably more familiar with.
As he finishes, a man enters the room, led by Carmine. After checking the refreshments are topped off, Carmine returns to his duties.
Greetings, I understand you are looking for me? Jason is lean, by body type, not malnourished. He is clean shaven and has an interesting gold amulet on his left wrist.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20=19 ; Tuesday March 29th, 2022 11:45:37 PM
Muuru sits and keeps eating, watching the upcoming conversations with Jason. Sense Motive: 19
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Wednesday March 30th, 2022 1:50:50 PM
Rhys maintains his vigil from the darkened alcove across from the entrance to the Hollow Pit. His thoughts drift to what he has learned or rather not learned of their mission since arriving in the city only that afternoon. ”Why would the guard cede jurisdiction of dealing with the poisoners guild to the church, yet intercede in the death of the thief? Why were the merchants in the market opposed to our actions in trying to stop the thief? Why is Clarisse so secretive and if it is for her safety, should he be worried about retribution for the actions they have taken so far?”. The elf shakes away all of these thoughts for the moment and refocuses on the building that Musetta led them to.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Wednesday March 30th, 2022 2:59:46 PM
Test
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 d20=20 ; d20+1=3 ; d20+6=8 ; Wednesday March 30th, 2022 3:54:50 PM
Paige manages to keep a straight face (Bluff = 20) when the gnome identifies The Hollow Pit as a school for necromancers. From her place on the coach she turns to the fellow, and asks: ”teacher Mavros, how do your neighbours at the Black Cathedral view your school and the research you do here?” (Diplomacy = 3, ugh!) but her voice trembles, as she finds it hard to keep her biases in check, ” A school of magic where spells manipulate the power of life, unlife, and life force, seems a dangerous place!”
When Jason reappears, lead into the foyer by Carmine, the half-elf cleric gives the servant the side eye whilst trying to figure out Carmine’s altered gait. (Perception = 8, more ugh!). She stands up, and acknowledges the man with a brief nod of her head when he addresses those from her party that are in the room.
(Is Carmine a human male? Is Jason a human?)
Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - CMD:13 - HP:11/11 - Spells Wednesday March 30th, 2022 6:45:44 PM
Fen is out of his depth and watches silently
Something strange is a foot(DM BrianZ) Wednesday March 30th, 2022 10:11:47 PM
Mavros responds to Paige's questions. Well, I suppose it could be considered dangerous by some. But I certainly don't feel it is any more dangerous than practicing other forms of magic.We have never received an official emissary from the Cathedral, so I don't have any idea what they think about us, if anything at all.
Jason also eats some of the snacks while he waits to see what everyone wants from him.
Outside, things remain quiet. Maybe too quiet. The City certainly doesn't seem very active at night, at least not in this area.
OOC- my apologies, Carmine is a human male, as is Jason
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Wednesday March 30th, 2022 11:53:20 PM
[OOC - Still waiting to overhear conversation between Jason and Myre, who seems to have missed yesterday's post
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Thursday March 31st, 2022 1:12:58 AM "I come from a family of bloodwitches, Mavros." It sounds almost like she was about to continue, but she doesn't. Evidently she feels that's explanation enough for her beliefs. Perhaps it is.
Myre spends some time looking Jason up and down. "JAY-son. JAAAAaaay-son. Son of Jay...yes, that's a funny name for someone learning here. Anyway, Jason, we've heard you like buying plants. Do you like buying plants, JAY-son?" In a miraculous feat of linguistic skill, she manages to say all that without coming off as condescending.
OOC: Looks like the DM and I both post in the late PM, which means being delayed a couple hours could put me over the line. I'll work on moving to earlier posts.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 d20+2=8 ; d20+6=22 ; d20+8=21 ; Thursday March 31st, 2022 9:35:24 AM
Paige takes up a spot behind Myre[ and looks up disarmingly at the slender human male, ”word on the street says you’re a ‘customer oriented pharmacist’” (Aid Another, Diplomacy = 8, a fail?).
The cleric lowers her gaze, but not before looking about to see if anyone else is listening in on the conversation.
She resumes he study of Jason and asses his next words (Sense Motive = 21)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 Thursday March 31st, 2022 9:40:46 AM
(OOC - second roll goes with second line - (Perception = 22)
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Thursday March 31st, 2022 10:36:47 AM
Rhys pulls another strip of smoke cured venison from his pouch and chews on it in silence as he watches the doorway of the school. ”Things are sure quiet here at night” he thinks to himself. ”Strange for such a big place, the forest makes more noise than this at night”. He settles into his watch with just a little more unease than previously.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Thursday March 31st, 2022 12:41:36 PM
Grothic asks Musetta Is it normally this quiet?
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=12 ; Thursday March 31st, 2022 8:03:36 PM
[OOC - sorry for the delay in response; life got busy]
Kwarsk continues to monitor the outside for interlopers. [Perception = 12]
Something strange is a foot(DM BrianZ) Thursday March 31st, 2022 9:15:38 PM
Musetta responds to Grothic with a whisper. I'm not sure we don't usually go out at night.
Kwarsk and Rhys have not noticed anything suspicious.
Jason seems confused by your line of questioning and does not indicate any frustration with Myre. Yes, of course. We do sometimes use various plants for spell components. Some of the mages here also conduct a bit of alchemy as well. Is this why you came here in the middle of the night? Are you looking for a potion?
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Thursday March 31st, 2022 10:05:58 PM "Yes yes, Jason. I know mages use plants for potions and spells. I asked if you liked buying plants. I would, very much, like to buy something to help me sleep." She points to her slightly pointed ears. "The normal sleep potions don't work on my kind. Do you know anything about potions that can help me sleep, Jason?"
She rocks back and forth on her heels, hands behind her back. Her head cocks to the side and waits for his answer.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 d20+8=14 ; Thursday March 31st, 2022 10:08:04 PM ”Actually, I am! “ volunteers, Paige. ”I practice the healing arts…field medicine, if you know what I mean, and I’ve heard on the street that there’s a potion or something that can make a person fall into a very deep sleep.”. Paige tries to judge the fellow’s reaction to her words (Sense Motive = 14) before hurriedly adding, ”you know, like if I had to sew up a wound or amputate a limb. Wouldn’t want a fellow to be conscious during the procedure. You know where I might procure such a drought?”
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Thursday March 31st, 2022 11:53:54 PM
Muuru thinks enough people have accosted our hosts, so he continues to listen. (Remember, his Sense Motive roll was 19)
Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - CMD:13 - HP:11/11 - Spells Friday April 1st, 2022 9:00:46 AM
(OOC: Has any resting time passed between us receiving this mission and arriving here? If so Fen would have adjusted his spell list to contain detect poison and would cast it now. He would walk outside to cast it (not in front of the non-party / npc's).
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 d20+3=15 ; Friday April 1st, 2022 11:32:23 AM
Rhys continues to watch the entryway and listens to his general surroundings (Perception 15). It has been a long day with no rest since they entered the city in the early afternoon. The smoked venison strips do little to ease his hunger, but they do add to his thirst.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Friday April 1st, 2022 9:36:34 PM
Grothic tries to remember where the last inn he passed was.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Friday April 1st, 2022 11:43:49 PM
Kwarsk continues guard duty. He thinks about his original plan to come to the city to rent his services out as a guard, or bodyguard, and as time passes with nothing happening and boredom slinks in to attack from behind, Kwarsk continues to be watchful while contemplating the many possible tasty uses of white gold (milk).
Something strange is a foot(DM BrianZ) Sunday April 3rd, 2022 10:16:01 PM
Jason nods his head. Ah yes. That's what you're after. Well, you could have just asked. I'm not sure how my name got dragged through all of this, but I did in fact acquire a sample. I was hoping to figure out what was in it, but my other research has mostly been my focus.
Jason appears to get a little bit more serious than the light banter that has gone back and forth. I got the sample from a poisoner's guild, I heard them call themselves the Sharas Tel. I suspect that is a phrase in another language, but I have not researched it. They seem like dangerous people. If you are going to go there, I advise a lot of caution.
Jason provides directions to the place, known locally as the Pumpkin Patch. It is located within the area of the Scar. If anyone asks, he will return to his quarters and fetch the sample to give to you.
OOC- Paige notices that Jason does not seem surprised at the line of questioning. OOC- the group has not yet rested, there may be a few options for that...
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 Monday April 4th, 2022 2:33:18 PM Sharas Tel. Paige’s brown furrows. If scholar like Jason doesn’t know what it means, Paige is pretty sure she wouldn’t know either. (Paige knows Common and Elven).
You have only one sample of the potion, and you’re trying to analyze it? You would give it to us instead?. She looks at Myre, Nintos and Muuru her brows raised in enquiry, then turns back to Jason and says: Sure!. The cleric rubs her temples, frowning. Her senses are off, and she seems unable to gather any information from the behaviour of the fellows in this school or figure out the servant’s altered gait. It’s late, and it’s been a long day.
If/while the potion is being fetched, Paige will ask Muruu if he knows of an inn nearby where she and her travelling companions might find a place to stay. The Minotaur seems to know his way around the city.
Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - CMD:13 - HP:11/11 - Spells Monday April 4th, 2022 4:40:23 PM
Looking like the job here is done Fen prepares to leave.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Monday April 4th, 2022 4:58:07 PM
Jason was..,helpful? Myre was not expecting that. How to proceed, she wonders?
Then Paige accepts the sample, and that's that. She looks Jason up and down. "Well, Jason, it appears I underestimated your willingness to do the right thing. Shame to lose access to the sample you were given, though. I feel like you should be compensated."
"Assuming he's on the up and up," is left unsaid. She waits to see his reaction and judges it as best she's able.
OOC: Sense motive is only +1.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Monday April 4th, 2022 5:25:22 PM
Rhys waits and watches to see if anyone leaves the school. He will follow anyone that leaves that is not one of his companions. Should Paige and the others leave he will wait for an obvious signal before emerging from the shadows.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Monday April 4th, 2022 5:57:58 PM
Grothic sits patiently, thankful that nothing has attacked.
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 8/8 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:12 CMB:0 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:3 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 d20+4=12 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+3=6 ; Monday April 4th, 2022 8:20:55 PM
[ooc]Earlier[ooc] Nintos thinks to himself Wouldn’t approve if some of his experiments? The Star Mages wouldn’t have frond upon his studies unless they were unethical or were made with cruel intent.. He locks this bit away for a better time than now. Onto more important things, like this Poisoner’s Guild.
As Mavros responds to Paige’s question, Nintos can not help but chime in. “There is not an exact balance when it comes to magics. Any form of magic could be dangerous when used improperly or with the wrong intentions.”
[ooc]When Jason arrives[ooc] Hearing Sharas Tel, Nintos lets the name roll around his mind; A Phrase in another language? Thinking if he can sypher it with his previous studies. [Int Check = 12]
“If you are looking to analyze it, maybe we could collaborate and see if we can figure out the recipe for the elixir, then we could both benefit from having it?” [K-Arcana = 25 to aid with the potion] [Sense Motive = 6 to read the situation… that’s about right]
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Monday April 4th, 2022 8:44:07 PM
Kwarsk continues on guard duty, doing his best not to be distracted by an annoying insect...
Something strange is a foot(DM BrianZ) Monday April 4th, 2022 10:37:02 PM
Paige isn't sure what language the phrase is, except that it is not elven or common.
Jason turns over the vial. Yeah, I didn't want to waste much money on it until I had a use for it. Also, it's not magical. It must be alchemical in nature, or maybe a poison.
Jason shrugs at Myre's suggestion.I didn't pay much for it, and I figured I could get more if I needed it.
Mavros agrees with Nintos. Of course, you are correct. Necromancy can lead down a dark path. I am hoping to show that it can be used for good as well.
Jason shakes his head at Nintos' suggestion. Perhaps another time. My current project has become more time consuming and complicated than I had anticipated.
Nintos is not sure of the phrase either. Anyone with a rank in linguistics may attempt a DC12 check to determine the language.
Outside, it is still quiet. There is almost a sensation of a chill, or hair on the back of the neck standing up, in anticipation of something happening, but nothing does. If the group is finished at the Hollow Pit for now, some suggestions on where to spend the night are tossed about. Locally, there is an Inn for travelers who have business at the Black Cathedral. It is called the All Tucked Inn. They have good rooms for 2gp and common rooms for 5sp. Each room has accommodation for 2. Musetta also suggests a cheaper option, the group could stay overnight at the orphanage if they wish. There are other places to stay in the City, but those are the closest options.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Tuesday April 5th, 2022 3:17:10 AM
Muuru speaks Common and all the Tauric languages. If Sharas Tel isn't one of those, he Takes Ten on his Linguistics roll and gets 18.
[OOC: I'm not clear on something: did Jason confirm that this potion is supposed work on elves?]
As for rooms, Muuru votes for the All Tucked Inn. At his size he'll probably need a room to himself, but he's willing to foot that bill.
Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - CMD:13 - HP:11/11 - Spells Tuesday April 5th, 2022 7:56:48 AM
The speaks druidic and sylvan he ponders the poisons name in that context.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 Tuesday April 5th, 2022 11:03:30 AM
When Jason returns with the potion, Paige thanks the fellow and hands it off to Muuru, suggesting he and Nintos and possibly others might want to evaluate it along with the components Fenfaren collected from the thief - when time permits. She takes her leave of the school, acknowledging Jason and Mavros with a “good night!”
On exiting the school, Paige will make a signal in order to gather those who remained outside the building. She will give a brief summary of what transpired* adding, ”the school isn’t going anywhere, and we can always check back. I suspect this Pumpkin Patch is next, but that is for another day.”.
Stifling a yawn, she endorses the idea of putting up at the All Tucked Inn.
*OOC: for those who stayed outside the building, you know about the school and persons inside it per the summary sent out via e-mail yesterday.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Tuesday April 5th, 2022 2:37:29 PM
Rhys pulls back the cowl of his cloak and slips out of the shadows to join Paige and the others in the street. He listens to all that is described and nods his head to the suggestion of retiring to the All Tucked Inn. He ponders the name Sharas Tel at whether or not it has meaning in either elven, sylvan or draconic. He follows the others to this inn.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Tuesday April 5th, 2022 8:34:33 PM
Kwarsk is distracted from the buzzing insect by people coming out of the school - ah, his adventuring companions!
Kwarsk listens with interest to the lodging options and says, to those who have expressed an opinion thus far, "yes, I agree with the All Tucked Inn. A cost in money, but worth the extra security."
Kwarsk then stands at attention, counting his companions as they exit, to ensure all have returned safely.
rest and revelation(DM BrianZ) Tuesday April 5th, 2022 10:38:02 PM
The group agrees to rest at the All Tucked Inn. On the way, Muuru recalls the phrase from the language UnderCommon. It roughly translates to: servants of the drow
No one recalls Jason confirming if the liquid will work on elves, but he did mention that he hadn't worked on it yet.
Paige recounts the events from inside the school for those who stood guard outside, and everyone is relieved there were no attacks, inside or out.
The Inn is located near the Black Cathedral, and a few of the rooms even have windows that face the structure. There are a handful of patrons still up, perhaps drinking their sorrows. The bartender invites you to sit wherever you'd like, and introduces herself. Greetings travelers. My name is Minna. The kitchen is closed, but I can get some drinks. There are also plenty of rooms available if you're interested.
OOC- this DM is not tracking very minor expenses such as this unless it turns into a very prolonged stay.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 d3=1 ; Wednesday April 6th, 2022 8:31:26 AM
Grothic pays for two rooms, one for himself and one for Musetta.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 d20+3=16 ; Wednesday April 6th, 2022 9:14:49 AM
Rhys approaches the bar and orders a large mug of ale while scanning the room to see if Clarisse or Berem are present. ”A room as well please.” He places an appropriate amount of coin on the bar and returns to scanning the room, looking to see if anyone seems to be taking a special interest in them. (Perception 16)
Once they are all gathered at a table, the elf enquires about a plan for moving forward with the investigation.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 d20+5=14 ; Wednesday April 6th, 2022 12:41:00 PM
OOC: I swear I posted yesterday, but it's not showing. I may have forgot to hit submit. It would not be the first time. It will probably not be the last.
Surprisingly enough, Myre does not speak undercommon. Her mother's house was made of surface drow and the language was not used except among its oldest members.
"Maybe I could test it out on me? I mean, that's a terrible idea, but it would let us find out quickly. I don't know a bunch about potions, but I did soak up a lot about herbalism when I was growing up. Maybe the stuff has a distinct scent?"
Knowledge, Nature: 14. Myre remembers what herbs the dude who stole them was after. Can that, along with the appearance, aroma, texture, etc. of the poison tell her anything significant?
She'll also take a room. She glances at Paige as she puts coin down. "How big are these rooms? I don't want anyone to sleep on the floor, and sharing a small bed is not fun unless it is, but maybe we share?"
She nurses a small glass of amaretto, enjoying the burn in small sips, and looks around the table. It's the first time they've really had some time to sit around and talk about stuff that wasn't "stop the poisoners." She looks down, and sees Waddles had the same thought. He's in her lap and facing away from her. It would look like he was taking everyone in if he wasn't an inanimate rubber pig.
"So," she begins. "Anyone know any good stories?"
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Wednesday April 6th, 2022 8:41:57 PM
Kwarsk says, "Minna, thank you kindly! I will have a tall mug of wh--- milk, please!"
Kwarsk pays for a standard room while waiting for his milk to arrive, and then spends time smelling it, sniffing it, and then begins drinking it slowly, taking his time with each rich mouthful. Kwarsk, being a dwarf, is totally unconcerned of the opinions of the non-dwarves around him...
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 Wednesday April 6th, 2022 9:12:16 PM
Paige takes a seat next to Myre and after ordering a large mug of warm milk, she endorses the idea of sharing a room, volunteering that she thought she had heard each room could accommodate two.
Paige also endorses the idea of testing the potion. ”If you don’t mind waiting until tomorrow, I might be able to detect if it is a poison, though I don’t know if I can offer you any protection from it if you quaff the whole thing!” The cleric suggests just dipping a finger into the fluid, and tasting it for starters.
The half elf reaches tentatively toward the unusual creature on Myre’s lap, then hesitates, looking enquiringly before petting the thing.
rest and revelation(DM BrianZ) Wednesday April 6th, 2022 9:28:36 PM
Rhys scans the taproom and notes that none of the patrons have taken any particular interest in the group.
Minna confirms the rooms have 2 separate beds each. She has a handful of rooms with larger beds and she will make sure Muuru is assigned to one of those. She does have a few suites with larger occupancy, but they are currently rented. She serves milk, warm or cold as requested, and ale, wine, amaraetto or water. This Inn caters to a diverse clientele, and they have a large selection of beverages to choose from. Even though the kitchen is closed, she does bring a biscuit and an apple for Musetta to munch on.
Myre suggests testing the potion, and Paige thinks she can confirm if it is poison. Myre isn't sure if she can confirm what is in the potion just from the herbs the thief was trying to steal.
It could be a good time for telling stories, as suggested, or maybe to discuss various topics.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Wednesday April 6th, 2022 9:28:39 PM
Muuru holds up the vial and says to Myre: Tasting this before testing? Yes, that's a bad idea. Telling stories? Maybe a few before we head to bed. But first:
To Rhys: If I had access to the right equipment, I could tell us more about this stuff. Maybe in the morning Mavros can rent us an alchemists' lab -- or an alchemist -- for half a hour.
So, Sharas Tel means something like "Servants of the Drow". Meaning they're not deep drow themselves. Either they work for them, or they're drow wannabees who -- "
(Picture a word-balloon over Fingers' head, with a "!" in it.)
"Myre? Do you think you could...portray a deep drow?
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Thursday April 7th, 2022 11:34:04 AM ”I see where you’re going with this Fingers. We have a disguise kit that could help anyone of the right size potentially pass as a drow, but the game will be up if any of these Sharas Tel seek to converse in the Drow language”.. The elf sits back and further contemplates the notion presented by the Minotaur.
Rhys listens to the conversations about testing the potions received from Jason and the vendors in the market but with no knowledge of these things he maintains a studied silence. When his compatriots retire for the evening, he will take a bed near a window with who ever chooses to share the room with him. Prior to sleeping, he examines his sword for damage, gently tracing the flat of his thumb down the entire length of the curves blade. Satisfied, he cleans it with a small oiled rag kept for just such a purpose, and slides it back into the scabbard. The sword remains by his bedside in easy reach; the rest of his gear is positioned at the end of the bed. He rigs a small tower of items behind the closed door, set to fall if entry to the room is attempted.
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 8/8 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:12 CMB:0 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:3 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 d20=7 ; Thursday April 7th, 2022 5:40:01 PM
Realizing that it is later than expected, Nintos agrees with the All Tucked Inn. “Hello Minna, juice if possible, otherwise water would do. Please.” He says as he looks for a place to sit with the group. Hearing Myre Maybe I could test it out on me makes him widen his eyes. “Though I am normally against magics that would Enchant someone into doing an action they would not normally do, I would like to take notes on this since it is with a willing subject.”
Stories He things to myself; “My son always told me I wasn’t good at stories, but then again he always did love the one about the brave and bold Sir George the knight and the dragon he face off against.”
[perform 7] He begins the story when the child was born, begins filling the tale with too much detail and facts. Seeing the blank faces in response; “Well, I did say my son told me I wasn’t good at it… The academia was my strong suit.” He sits back in his chair.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 Thursday April 7th, 2022 8:12:17 PM
Paige is surprised by how many of the party have decided to stay at the inn, since she thought that half of them were already living and working in the City. The cleric listens to the stories in hopes of learning more about the motivations of her companions, before volunteering a little about herself.* She will also recount the adventure of killing the giant spider [/b] “it was as big as a dog!”[/b]
Before retiring, she will ask Muuru if she can at least smell, and taste the potion (in the morning) before he takes it off for analysis. ”I’m not sure about this analysis business, Fingers. It seems like anyone just having a bottle of this dangerous stuff is suspect - what will folks think about someone who tries to break down the formula?”
Her warm milk finished, Paige will wait until Myre is ready to retire. The cleric will strip off her armour, attend to basic hygiene, then exhausted by a demanding first day in the City, fall into bed.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 Thursday April 7th, 2022 8:14:25 PM
Oops! Forgot to add:
*anyone who listened to Paige, learned the narrative of the background story as written out on her PC sheet.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Thursday April 7th, 2022 9:47:18 PM "His name is Waddles." Myre offers the pig to Paige to hold or pet, but it's just a little rubber pig. No magic, no empathic or telepathic thoughts. He certainly doesn't talk.
"Story time it is," she thinks before continuing. "My dad gave him to me when I was just a baby. He said it used to be the brain of an intelligent asteroid that he polymorphed into this." She gestures to the pig. "I know that sounds ridiculous, but mom and their adventuring buddies swore it was true. Anyway, he got inside my head somehow. It's why my magic comes naturally. Both of my parents had to study for theirs. Mom's tried to throw him away dozens of times, but he always ends up back with me." She accepts Waddles back from Paige. "He's my little bad penny." She pets the pig and smiles before looking up at Fingers. "Depends. Can I fool a human into thinking I'm a dark-elf? Probably. Another dark-elf? Not a chance."
rest and revelation(DM BrianZ) Thursday April 7th, 2022 10:07:13 PM
The evening winds down and the group finds the way to their rooms. They are all comfortable, but not opulent. There is no disturbance during the night, and everyone wakes refreshed.
Regrouping in the main taproom, the smells of breakfast have everyone's attention. The room is fuller than the previous evening, as the patrons are all preparing to start their day. Minna is not visible, there is a bartender at the bar, and three servers taking orders at the tables. One of them, a young man who resembles the bartender, stops by to take your order. Hello, I'm Liam. Would you like the large meal, or small meal? I can also take custom orders. We have a diverse clientele here and are prepared to make most things you might want to order.
After decisions on breakfast are made, the group will need to decide their next move in this investigation.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20+5=11 ; Friday April 8th, 2022 12:05:41 AM
[bAll right, what do we know about the Pumpkin Patch? [/b]
OOC: What do I know about the Pumpkin Patch? Knowledge (Local): 11
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Friday April 8th, 2022 7:53:43 AM
Grothic eats silently.
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 8/8 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:12 CMB:0 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:3 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 d20+4=12 ; Friday April 8th, 2022 10:01:01 AM
Waking up from a good night’s rest, Nintos stretches as he stands up to look out the room’s window. Seeing that the sun is just starting to crest the horizon Nintos opens the window causing Merletta to stir from the perch she made in the corner of the room. “Go on, find something to eat. The alleyway should provide some scraps from last night.”
Closing up the window, Nintos prepares for the day, studying his spell book, taking notes in his journal, gathering his belongings and making sure everything is in place.
Arriving in the taproom Nintos’ stomach grumbles at the aroma of breakfast. Sausage, bacon, sweet breads cause his stomach to take over his mind. “Liam, this morning seems like a large meal kind of morning!” seeing his minotaur companion he quickly adds “Large for a human. And a coffee please.”
Hearing Fingers bring up The Pumpkin Patch Nintos takes a sip of his coffee and thinks if he has heard of this location before. Though Nintos is not from the city, he has spend several years here studying and teaching. [Int Check 12 – If K-Nature/Planes/Religion is better that is a 16]
“Fingers, you mentioned the need of a way to study the… formula. I don’t know what it would cost, but I do know the Star Mages’ Guild strive for research and study. If we do not have another option I might have a way in.”
Once his meal is delivered, Nintos turns his attention to his breakfast.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Friday April 8th, 2022 10:55:41 AM
Rhys wakes early as the first of the common blackbirds begin their morning chorus, not the melodious song of many of the forest birds, more of a raucous argument between neighbours full of squawks and chirps. The elf spends the next 1/2 hour following a regimen of stylized movements that emulate armed combat. A thin sheen of sweat drapes his torso when he is done. He quickly wipes down with a wet cloth and bucket of cold water before donning his shirt and studded leather. Ready for the day, he heads downstairs for breakfast and the day ahead.
Rhys selects a moderate breakfast of cheese, sliced meats, bread and a single apple. ”I would like to talk with Berem or Clarisse about our findings to date. They may know more of this ‘Pumpkin Patch’ and the Sharas Tel” he offers as they eat.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Friday April 8th, 2022 4:09:27 PM
[Ooc] Did Musetta rejoin us for breakfast or did she disappear overnight?
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Friday April 8th, 2022 5:29:18 PM Myre watches as Nintos orders a meat-rich breakfast. Wordlessly, she places Waddles on the table. The pig silently stares at Nintos as he eats. Myre makes no comment.
"Do we go back to our handler with just a name? Sounds like that might be a disappointment. They hired us to get to the bottom of this, didn't they? Maybe send them a message detailing what we found, but continue doing our own investigation?" She digs into her own breakfast of shredded potatoes and cheese. "Maybe this Pumpkin Patch is common knowledge around these parts? We could ask that Liam fellow when he comes back around."
.Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Friday April 8th, 2022 9:33:17 PM
Paige wakes up feeling much better than when she went to sleep. She gives the wound on her forearm a cursory examination, and wonders if it will leave much of a scar. After cleaning up, but before donning her armour, she spends time in contemplation and prayer, asking her god to guide her with the choosing of her gifts for the day.
The cleric joins her companions for breakfast, and enquires if there is a hot cereal available - but doesn’t want the kitchen to go to any bother. She will lace her porridge with honey, nuts, and cream and tuck in with vigour.
Paige will ask Muuru if she might have a sniff of the potion he holds for the party, and the tiniest drop to taste.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Friday April 8th, 2022 11:52:53 PM
Muuru, not surprisngly, eats twice as much any of the others, mostly hot cakes with honey and sausage. As long as we report to the Cathedral, who cares how many of us go? And Rhys is right; they might know something that could help us. Hmm. I guess it's really just a one-person job; fortunately, Rhys just volunteered. Any other thoughts about finding information?
He passes the potion to Paige.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Saturday April 9th, 2022 9:28:07 AM Sending two people on a one man job is a good way to get them both back, especially in light of recent violence. I will go with Rhys, if he will accept the company.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Saturday April 9th, 2022 10:56:54 PM
[add to previous post]
He passes the potion to Paige. "Taste it?" Is that how you do your Detect Poison spells? Sounds risky.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Sunday April 10th, 2022 10:27:16 PM
"Liam, I'll take the large meal," Kwarsk says.
Kwarsk listens to the conversations among the others, and then speaks up.
"So are we splitting up then, some to the Cathedral, some to the Pumpkin Patch? Also, I speak Undercommon as well. This Sharas Tel is... concerning...
Kwarsk trails off, and then picks up his milk and drinks some, nursing it until his meal arrives, and then Kwarsk attacks his meal as though it had stolen his last copper! Kwarsk is methodical, but not messy, and one could be forgiven for mistaking his fork for a glaive-guisarme and his knife for armor spikes...
A new day dawns(DM BrianZ) Sunday April 10th, 2022 10:45:16 PM
After Liam takes the orders, a messenger arrives to your table and presents a letter to Fenfaren. The letter is from some beastfolk who claim to be relatives of his and that they have some information on the memory loss he recently suffered. The letter asks that he travel at once to a village north of Plateau City, and meet with them for the details. Fenfaren eats hurriedly, and then departs, promising to return soon.
So far not much is known about the Pumpkin Patch. It looks like some information gathering may be in order.
All requested breakfast items are served. Looking around, you can see a wide variety of food ordered by the patrons. And also a large variety of people, by the dress and speech accents, it seems like some of them have traveled here from a number of different places, presumably for business at the Black Cathedral.
Nintos suggests the Star Mages guild may be of assistance with the 'potion'.
Rhys would like to checks in with Berem.
Musetta stayed in the room with Paige and Myre(a temporary bed was supplied by Minna) She sits next to Grothic and tucks into breakfast like a dwarf after a long march. I'd like to stop by the orphanage today and let them know I am ok. Can we do that?
Myre agrees with checking in, but feels there isn't much to report yet. When asked, Liam agrees he has heard of the place, and thinks it is nearby.
Paige is served the hot cereal, with all extra ingredients as requested. She would like to test the potion.
Fingers agrees to check in, and wonders how the group can get some more information. (Paige now has the potion) He is concerned about what might happen if it is tasted.
Grothic volunteers to join Rhys and check in.
Kwarsk digs in to breakfast, laying out the options while he eats.
So, through the discussion, it appears a few options are most relevant. 1)check in with Berem 2)gather information on the Pumpkin Patch 3)escort Musetta to the orphanage 4)other?
Some decision will need to be made on whether or not to split up, and where everyone is going.
If Paige tries to taste the potion, I will need a fort save.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Sunday April 10th, 2022 11:09:17 PM
Rhys finishes his breakfast and looks about for a napkin to wipe his hands. Seeing none he contemplates wiping them on a nearby dog that rests beneath a neighbouring table, but thinks the better of it and wipes his hands across the legs of his trousers. ”Right…Kwarsk and I will head for the Black Cathrdral in search of Berem or Clarisse and see what they know of our unfortunate thief from last evening as well as the Pumpkin Patch, Sharas Tel, and these academics at the Hollow Pit. Where shall we find the rest of you once we finish?”
The elf clasps Fenfaren by the shoulder and wishes him well in his venture and blades him safe return. When Kwarsk is ready they head out side by side. ”I welcome your company my dwarves friend. This is a big city, much bigger than any I have known and clearly more dangerous than any I have experienced.”
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Monday April 11th, 2022 7:16:09 AM
(OOC) apologies…I meant to drag Grothic along to the Black Cathedral with Rhys…just got confused…Kwarsk is also more than welcome to join us.
.Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+5=7 ; Monday April 11th, 2022 10:51:21 AM
Paige accepts the potion from the Minotaur, assuring him ”You can have this back in a moment.”. The cleric carefully unstoppers the vial, and takes a sniff. She will share her impressions with those remaining at the breakfast table. With her finger over the top, she quickly inverts the container, then rights it so that the thinnest layer of fluid coats her digit. Handing the potion and stopper to Muuru she says, ”there is plenty left for your analysis.”.
The half-elf licks her finger-tip and registers the taste and any effect, (Fort = 7).
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Monday April 11th, 2022 6:17:52 PM If we are splitting up, is anyone going near the orphanage on their way?
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 d20+4=20 ; Monday April 11th, 2022 9:57:43 PM Myre watches Paige with some trepidation. She remains still in her seat, but prepares herself to come to the girl's aid.
Later, assuming Paige lives through her snack, she'll canvas the area looking for information about a "pumpkin patch". She does her best to play the rube tourist looking to follow up on a "secret local hangout" or some such nonsense.
Diplomacy (gather information): 20
A new day dawns(DM BrianZ) Monday April 11th, 2022 10:05:18 PM
Paige tastes the potion, and the effect is nearly immediate. She has just enough time to take note of the earthy taste before the effect hits. Paige is overcome with extreme sleepiness. (Paige is fatigued; -2STR and -2DEX) Paige, I will need a 2nd fort save.
Rhys would like to stop by the Black Cathedral, and Grothic inquires about the orphanage. Myre indicates she will try to find out more about the Pumpkin Patch. But it looks like there is a more immediate concern.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Monday April 11th, 2022 10:16:51 PM Paige... wha?... oh no!?! Kwarsk exclaims as he looks up from his just-emptied plate to see Paige experiment on herself.
Is there a Cleric in the house???
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20+6=16 ; Monday April 11th, 2022 11:52:09 PM
Although he braced for this, Muuru can't help but jump to his feet. Fool of a...! Stop. Focus.
If she gets worse....what can I give her? Is there anything that can treat the poison, hopefully something common and nearby? (Alchemy: 16)
And Kwarsk has the right idea. But if there's no cleric here, Muuru is ready to carry Paige next door to the Cathedral.
.Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+5=11 ; d20+5=21 ; Tuesday April 12th, 2022 11:18:10 AM ”Smells…tastes…earthy” muses the half elf aloud. ”So sleepy” Not surprised that there is an effect, Paige is none the less taken aback by the intensity. If the tiniest drop can have such a fatiguing effect, how dangerous could a larger dose be?
”Clarisse is a cleric” volunteers the red-head, looking at Kwarsk. I’m a cleric… she thinks acknowledging to herself that her repertoire of simple healing magics aren’t likely to help in this situation. Paige tries to fight off the effect (Fort Save=11). Looking ‘round at her worried companions, she closes her eyes, and digs deep (burned my Hero point to re-roll, Fort Save = 21) as she tries to fight off the poison.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Tuesday April 12th, 2022 11:25:32 AM
Rhys is startled by the rapid influence of such a small exposure to the poison on his friend. ”Oh oh. I don’t like the look of this” he says to no one on particular. The elf hovers nearby, unable to offer any suggestions of value.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 d20+3=18 ; Tuesday April 12th, 2022 1:25:54 PM "Hmm, that's interesting," thinks Myre to herself as her companions jump up. Myre focuses instead. She has no manner with which to assist, other than letting Paige rest her head in her lap. So, she pays close attention to Paige and looks for any outwardly visible physical reactions like rashes or whatnot.
Perception: 18
"We should remind her to wash her hands before she continues eating," she says to no one in particular as she stares on.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Tuesday April 12th, 2022 1:48:42 PM Maybe a hair of the dog that bit her?
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 8/8 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:12 CMB:0 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:3 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 d20+8=12 ; Tuesday April 12th, 2022 7:33:44 PM
Nintos’ eyes about fall out seeing Paige take a taste of the potion. Seeing it have a negative impact on her, Nintos moves to examine.
*Detect Magic & Spellcraft 12
“I don’t know if I have experienced anything like this before. I am no alchemist…”
A new day dawns(DM BrianZ) Tuesday April 12th, 2022 10:29:49 PM
Paige has a close call, but is able to fight off the remaining effects, whatever they were. Paige remains sleepy for the next minute or so, and then the effect fades. (fatigue also runs out, and Paige feels back to normal)
The poison does indeed seem to work as advertised, and does appear to be very potent. The group rallies around Paige, with ideas on how to help. Some recall that there is an alchemy item called antitoxin which would prove useful against the substance. There are some spells which could prove useful, but they are currently out or reach. Delay poison and neutralize poison would both presumably work on this substance.
So you know the poison is real, the question is, what are you going to do now?
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Tuesday April 12th, 2022 11:30:43 PM Hmm... who was taking Musetta by the orphanage now that Rhys and Grothic seem headed to the cathedral? If anyone is planning on it, I would like to join that group and we catch up later to the group investigating the pumpkin patch. The guards in town are... somewhat active... as is the poisoners' guild, and I think I am best suited to stand between Musetta and danger until the whole group is gathered again," Kwarsk says.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Tuesday April 12th, 2022 11:45:10 PM Antitoxin! says Muuru. We're buying a gallon of the stuff and I want all of you to carry some at all times!
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 8/8 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:12 CMB:0 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:3 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 d20+3=18 ; d20+8=15 ; Wednesday April 13th, 2022 7:26:44 AM “Kwarsk, I can go with you to the orphanage. I can have Merletta looking from above for anyone that might appear to be trailing us.”
Looking to the rest of the group; “Once we are finished at the orphanage are we meeting up near the Pumpkin Patch, or should we all gather together before heading that way?”
[ooc]Once we are on the way: Nintos Perception 18, Merletta Perception 15.[ooc]
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Wednesday April 13th, 2022 10:03:53 AM
Grothic is prepared to leave, and says goodbye , for now, to Musetta.
.Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Wednesday April 13th, 2022 1:51:51 PM
Paige blinks, yawns widely, stretches out her arms, then rolls her shoulders. The pupils of her eyes, which had dilated under the influence of the potion, return to normal. Looking sheepishly at her companions, she says ”that was interesting”… and a little scary, she thinks to herself.
Handing off a small pouch to Muuru she volunteers, ”there’s 83 GP in there, courtesy of the thief from the market. Put it towards the cost of antitoxin for the group.”
The young cleric indicates that she will accompany Rhys and Grothic and anyone else heading for the Black Cathedral, after agreeing with Kwarsk that the group meet-up before tackling the Pumpkin Patch as a united front.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20+6=13 ; Wednesday April 13th, 2022 2:07:16 PM All right, Nintos and Kwarsk are taking Musetta to the orphanage. Myre, find out what you can about the Pumpkin Patch. Like where it's located. Take Paige with you, and don't let her taste anything.
Rhys, Grothic, check in at the Cathedral and tell them everything we've learned. See if they know anything that can help us.
I'm going to buy that antitoxin. Everyone meet back here in an hour.
With that, Muuru heads for the door.
OOC: It's been a few weeks, so I don't remember the details of the herbalist's shop, or if I ever found a genuine alchemist. Muuru will look around for the best place to buy several vials of antitoxin. If necessary, he'll speak to Mavros at the Hollow Pit.
Whoever he ends up talking to, he'll discuss the question he had earlier: what unique or special ingredients or equipment would be needed to put an elf to sleep? And where would you have to go to get them?
Knowledge (Local): Take 20 = 25 Craft (Alchemy): 13
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Wednesday April 13th, 2022 5:02:26 PM
Rhys breathes a sigh of relief when Paige rallies and shakes off the poison. He didn’t know how he was going to explain all of this to the cleric’s mother and father back in Magpie Crossing.
Rhys sets out to the Black Cathedral with Grothic to find Berem or Clarisse. He will report their progress as well as asking about the dead thief, Sharas Tel, and the Pumpkin Patch. He will also see what. If anything they know about activities at the Necromancy school at the Hollow Pit.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Wednesday April 13th, 2022 5:33:36 PM Myre looks Paige up and down once she's upright again, mostly making sure she didn't wrinkle any clothing or have anything knocked out of place. It's important to look one's best.
That done, she continues with her original plan to shake the locals for information.
A new day dawns(DM BrianZ) Wednesday April 13th, 2022 10:45:56 PM
Plans set, the group splits up to attend to a few tasks, with an agreement to meet back at the Inn before investigating the Pumpkin Patch.
Nintos and Kwarsk escort Musetta to the orphanage. They do not notice anyone following them. The other orphans are ecstatic to see her alive and well, and there are lots of hugs all around. A man(human) approaches, and introduces himself as Walid. But the kids call me Wally, and you may too if you wish Wally is an older gentleman, and speaks in a grandfatherly way to everyone. We thank you for her safe return. We heard the guards had her, but didn't find out anything else. This place is, or used to be, the Puccini Coffee Shoppe. Used to be a bunch of stores right near here. They got abandoned when the Scar crept too close. The patrons didn't like it. Anyway, it's the only one with the sign still hanging, so we decided to use it for the name of the orphanage.
Musetta thanks Kwarsk and Nintos. I know you have some bad people to check on. I think it might be safer if I stayed here for now. But I hope to see you again soon. She gives them both a hug.
Paige, Rhys and Grothic check in at the Black Cathedral. They find it in it's usual busy but subdued state. Berem is in his office, and he is intrigued by what the group has uncovered so far. Berem agrees to check on the dead thief. I will pull the paperwork on that as soon as I can, and see if there is any apparent connection. He is not surprised to hear the poisoner's guild has a name. The name having a connection to the drow is troubling. I still feel that it is a good thing we are working on this now, hopefully before it gets out of control.
Berem has heard of the Pumpkin Patch. One of a number of businesses within the Scar. Supposedly nothing shady happens there, but in my experience many things in the Scar are not what they seem. He can give the location and agrees it should be checked. He hasn't heard much about the Hollow Pit. It's not really my area, but if you feel it is important, I will have my clerk start a new file on them.
Myre works the crowd. She quickly finds that people near the Black Cathedral mostly wish to be left alone, as many of them have either just completed making final arrangements for a loved one, or are on the way there to do so. The nearby streets are a different matter. People out taking care of normal business, work, or shopping are mostly agreeable to talk, and several of them can give directions to the Pumpkin Patch. One woman informs her that the owner is quite unpleasant, and she has taken her herbs and spices needs to the Skull Market instead. A gentleman suggests the business changes its' wares after dark, but that is also the time when shadier clientele can be found in the area.
Muuru does some shopping. He learns the best place to buy stuff is at the Catacombs, but it is across town. Mavros is sure there should be a few available from one of his students. They are charging normal price, 50gp per dose. The Skull Market vendors do not have any of the regular antitoxin. But some of them have what they call a lesser version of it. It is cheaper, and according to the vendor, it will work, just maybe not quite as well as the regular stuff. Their version costs 20gp per dose. Fingers learns the nearest actual herbalist shop is the Pumpkin Patch, and receives directions to it. But he may not want to go there yet.........
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=4 ; Wednesday April 13th, 2022 11:11:50 PM
Kwarsk smiles at Musetta's kind words and waves to her as she returns to the orphanage.
Kwarsk considers Wally's behavior (Sense Motive = 4) but has no particular hunch that Wally is putting on a front. Kwarsk thinks to himself, I hope she makes the best use of this second chance...
Kwarsk speaks to Wally, "Wally, I'm glad she's back too. You should know that she was caught stealing by the guard. I know it's hard being poor, but the Plateau City Guard don't play around, even with a child like Musetta.Tell me... does the orphanage need food donations right now?"
(OOC: Kwarsk intends to find out from Wally, without directly stating it, what kind of help the orphanage needs so orphans like Musetta don't feel the need to steal. Kwarsk intends to use that information to consider what he can give, and can convince others to give, from time to time as adventuring pay is received. /OOC)
Once Kwarsk finishes a brief conversation with Wally, as above, Kwarsk turns to Nintos and says, " Well Nintos, my new friend, shall we get back to our compatriots now?"
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 8/8 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:12 CMB:0 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:3 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 d20+3=18 ; d20+3=8 ; d20+2=22 ; Thursday April 14th, 2022 12:05:04 PM
[ooc]Perception:18, Sense Motive: 8[ooc] Walking into the orphanage, Nintos takes in the surroundings. Are they understaffed, anyone look sketchy that might have ill intentions for the kids. Why was this child out when she was stealing when she got caught.
As Wally comes forward and introduces himself Nintos smiles and gives him a slight nod; “Wally, my name is Nintos. I too am glad for her safe return. Had a few of us not stepped in there is no telling what could have happened. I would hate to see such a young girl be branded a thief for the rest of her life. That surely would spoil a ceiling for her future, would it not?”
Nintos kneels down to returns Musetta’s hug, and in doing so he tries to be secretive as he pulls out two gold coins and slips them into her palm. [Slight of Hand: 22] Whispering; “Turn away from the path you are heading towards. You are smart and know the city, you can do better. Learn an honest skill. Next time you get caught you might not be so lucky…” Watching her run off Nintos hope to see the day, when he is old and gray, and he crosses paths with Musetta again and they share a ‘remember when’ conversation.
Turning back to Waly; “I could not begin to imagine the pressure and stress you have on your shoulders while running the orphanage. But, I must ask, what is in place to help the orphans? There must be skilled crafters looking for apprentices, or temples looking for acolytes, or have any of them been tested at the Star Tower to see if they have the spark of magic within them?” Looking at the building and the empty husk of the stores around them; “I would hate to see their future echo what is going on around them.”
“Or anything in general?” Nintos adds when Kwarsk asked if the orphanage needs food donations right now?
Once the conversation is over and Kwarsk ask if he is ready, Nintos nods. Once they are far enough away; “There are great advantages to large cities like Plateau City, but in my home village if there was a child who lost their parents, they would be brought into another family and raised as their own. Not discarded into a building in a dying sector of the city, brushed away from the eyes of the population.”
Nintos pulls out his journal and begins to make a few notes, ideas, of what could he do once this investigation is over, and he has more time. Shaking his dead at his own thought when I have more time…
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Thursday April 14th, 2022 5:04:05 PM ”Yes. I think it would be wise to start a file on the Hollow Pit. Jason was implicated in buying this Drow poison and other potions and alchemical components from street thieves. There maybe a deeper connection to the Poisoners Guild than we know.”. The elf pauses for a moment before broaching the matter of the dead thief. ”As for the thief brought in last night, He too may be more than just a thief. Did he have any tattoos or other items that might indicate a gang membership? He also was wearing some studded leather armour that we would like to claim.”
Once business is completed with Berem, Rhys will suggest a quick side trip to the WLA headquarters to ask for information about the Sharas Tel, the Hollow Pit, and the Pumpkin Patch. They may also know of affordable housing in the city.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+2=22 ; Thursday April 14th, 2022 5:45:10 PM
The cleric is in agreement with the course of action taken by Rhys and makes sure her WLA badge is displayed prominently on her person. She will smile winningly, and reiterate her elven companion’s questions regarding the Sharas Tel, Hollow Pit and the possibility of rental accommodations at a reasonable price. (Diplomacy (nat. 20!) = 22)
She will remind the elf and half-orc, that they mustn’t dally, and should hurry back to the inn where they had breakfast in order to rendezvous with their companions at the inn.
A new day dawns(DM BrianZ) Thursday April 14th, 2022 9:16:18 PM
Wally appears to have a bit of anxiety as he begins to speak. I think I should explain, so there is no misunderstanding. My friends and I were once part of a minor thief group. Not even enough to call it a guild really. We were strictly non violent stuff, picking pockets and such. We were forced into a bad situation by one of the larger guilds, and several of us died. There were only four of us left.
He seems tired suddenly, but continues. We decided to give it up. But as a result of what happened, we ended up with several orphaned children in our care. And we did care for them. But we had no resources, no money, and we were all starving. So we turned to the only thing we knew. And we taught the kids as well. The guards are a lot easier on the kids, and usually let them go with a warning. I hope you can understand, it was the only way we had to survive. Over time, many other orphans came to us. It's not much, but it's dry, kind of clean and we have enough to eat most days. These children are safer here than most other places in the city. If you have some other solution, we would surely be glad to hear it.
Kwarsk and Nintos may have other questions, but the rendezvous time is approaching
Rhys and Paige pay a quick visit to the WLA. They do not have any information on Sharas Tel, or the Pumpkin Patch. They are aware of the Hollow Pit, but at this time there have not been any concerns raised by citizens, or guards. The WLA does occasionally have a few rooms available to house members temporarily. They do require all such to be full members.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Thursday April 14th, 2022 11:28:23 PM
On the road to the rendezvous, Kwarsk is silent for a time, and then turns to Nintos as they walk and says, "Nintos, I think we can help them, and there's a chance they may be able to help us. As we check in on Musetta from time to time, we can bring whatever people want to donate, but also ask Wally and the kids what they've heard about various clues. Wally probably also knows who the big bosses are in the current thieves' guild, and so on...
So Nintos, on a different topic, you're often talking about your magical abilities. I may value a good axe and shield and armor, but I've seen magic change the tide of even small battles... what kind of magic can you do?"
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Thursday April 14th, 2022 11:29:28 PM
Muuru returns to the tavern with four doses of the lesser antitoxin. He also spends 50 gp of his own for a dose of the good stuff. He realizes that he may be overreacting to what happened to Paige, but now -- well, everything seems real.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Friday April 15th, 2022 2:45:20 PM
Rhys leaves the WLA headquarters building in Adventurer’s Square with obvious disappointment and heads towards the Skull Market and the tavern to meet up with the others. ”Well, that was a waste of time” he voices to Paige. ”I would have expected that the headquarters of the WLA would know a little more about their own city, and have at least a suggestion about where to look for cheap digs, especially since we were wearing our WLA badges! Not quite what the outpost at Magpie Crossing told us when we signed up.” He walks the rest of the way in silence, wondering what approach they will take at the Pumpkin Patch.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Friday April 15th, 2022 3:43:09 PM ”Considering the League’s primary task is ‘to gather local knowledge and information’ and share situational awareness, this first visit is kind of underwhelming. Maybe they aren’t the organization they once were?”. Paige wonders if it is worthwhile saving up the 1000 GP to become a Journeyman.
”I wonder how the others did?” she muses aloud.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Friday April 15th, 2022 3:56:52 PM
Grothic says goodbye to Paige and Rhys as they go to their guild. He will wander the city before heading back to the meeting point.
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 8/8 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:12 CMB:0 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:3 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 Friday April 15th, 2022 5:22:23 PM
Nintos nods at Kwarsk’s idea; “Eyes and ears of the city… Most people probably overlook them at every turn.” Smiling at the dwarf; “Not having to spend time in the street I don’t always think of these kind of options. I like it.”
As they continue on back to their rendezvous point, Kwarsk mentions how Nintos often talks about his magical abilities;[b] “Do it?” thinking to himself; “My studies are often focused on conjuring something out of nothing. But I do also appreciate magics that help make life simpler for myself.”
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 8/8 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:12 CMB:0 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:3 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 d20+8=20 ; Saturday April 16th, 2022 10:40:09 AM
Realizing that he himself has gone silent after talking about himself, Nintos continues in asking Kwarsk a question: “You said that you have seen magic change the tide in battles. Have you seen many battles? Though I can use the arcane arts for many different purposes, I have never used my abilities in combat. Well, real combat.”
Nintos whistles and calls back Merletta from her scouting behind to see if they had a tail. [Merletta Perception: 20] ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Memorized Spells: 0: Acid Splash, Detect Magic, Mage Hand. 1st: Summon Monster 1, Grease
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Sunday April 17th, 2022 11:13:00 PM Myre is quite pleased with the knowledge she has gained, though she's mighty curious about what the nighttime wears entail. "Maybe that's when they bring out the heavily spiced pies. What do you think, Waddles?"
Waddles has no further insight on the matter. Myre resists the urge to probe further into what the Pumpkin Patch sells at night. That seems to be a "if you have to ask, it's not for you" situation. She heads back to the inn after a day of talking to too many people.
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