DM Robert - "I imagine we should travel in a pack..." Wednesday June 29th, 2022 5:46:22 PM experience: I think you-all should be around 490,000 experience +/- a couple hundred
Spellbook: Hmm, module writer didn't write it in, here's his spells on tap, he had multiple meta magic feats though: Lvl 0 (DC 16): Mage Hand, Message, Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost Lvl 1 (DC 17): Grease, Mage Armor, Magic Missile*, Magic Missile*, Magic Missile*, Ray of Enfeeblement, Reduce Person Lvl 2 (DC 18): Glitterdust, Resist Energy, Resist Energy, Scorching Ray*, See Invisibilty, Silent Magic Missile*, Silent Shield Lvl 3 (DC 19): Non Detection, Ray of Exhaustion, Silent Resist Energy, Silent Resist Energy, Wind all, Fireball, Empowered Magic Missile* Lvl 4 (DC 20): Dimension Door, Dimension Door, Dimension Door, Enlarged Fireball*, Overland Flight Lvl 5 (DC 21): Enlarged Maximised Magic Missile*, Enlarged Maximised Ray of Enfeeblement, Maximised Scorching Ray*, Silent Greater Invisibility, Wall of Force Lvl 6 (DC 22): Chain Lightning*, Enlarged Maximised Scorching Ray*, Enlarged Maximised Scorching Ray*, Greater Dispel Magic
Consider that his spell book
Armalad does some more checking and turns up spellbook. Bartomus eyes the belt of giant strength. It's magical it sizes to fit whoever is holding it Stohp is grateful the attacks aren't coordinated. Zanderallen heals and relieves the fatigue, and asks about picking up the evidence. Stock is worried about the living/hiding situation. Delia keeps Hawky on lookout. ___________
As the party gathers up things the crowd disperses. Overlord Aerashkiel comes over to you. "I have a suggestion. Perhaps it would be better to take all the candidates to the palace?" She points upward where you note that Overlord's palace floats above the city. "That way you would have better security and the palace guard could help?"
Drezz nods and says to you'all "It's a thought. Also with me naming the other lords of diamond they may soon have a price on their head as well. That's usually how the lords keep themselves a secret society."
He thinks for a minute. "I think for now we should leave the evidence where it is. Even with all of us going I feel that they may try something and I don't want to be responsible for collateral damage to the citizens of the Float. We got lucky today."
Armalad (Hugh) HP 80/93 AC 24 / Touch 18 / Flat 18 CMD 25 Thursday June 30th, 2022 2:44:12 AM
(OOC: oh right we are on the medium track but I still appear a little off so I guess I'll go to 490k?)
Armalad says, "Can I have that spell book or rather any spells I don't already have in mine? I can scribe the spells into my own spell book with a little bit of time."
To Drezz she says, "We could always act like we are moving your evidence to somewhere else and set a trap for those who have been setting the terms for us."
Cast Nondetection Drezz 9 hours- The warded creature becomes difficult to detect by divination spells such as clairaudience/clairvoyance, locate object, and detect spells. Nondetection also prevents location by such magic items as crystal balls. If a divination is attempted against the warded creature or item, the caster of the divination must succeed on a caster level check (1d20 + caster level) against a DC 20 (11 + 9 in Armalad's case) See Invisibility (90 minutes): You can see any objects or beings that are invisible within your range of vision, as well as any that are ethereal, as if they were normally visible. Such creatures are visible to you as translucent shapes, allowing you easily to discern the difference between visible, invisible, and ethereal creatures. Prepared: 0th: Detect Magic, Message, Light, Toros Taur Try 1st: Feather Fall, True Strike - cast, True Strike-cast, Mage Armor, Mage Armor, Alarm 2nd:Glitterdust - cast, Glitterdust, See Invisibility - cast, See Invisibility, Detect Thoughts -cast, Rope Trick 3rd: Tiny Hut, Tiny Hut, Fly-cast, Nondetection 4th: Nondetection (3rd level in 4th level slot) - cast, Resilient Sphere - cast, Confusion 5th: False Vision, Waves of Fatigue
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 46/86 hp AC: 27/15/23 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 24 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Thursday June 30th, 2022 7:08:21 AM
Stohp thinks the palace works. Extra security is nice, she wonders why Drezz wasn't taken there immediately.
Stock (JonM) HP: 103/159; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 33; Rage: 6/33 used Thursday June 30th, 2022 11:46:57 AM Status - Letting Heroism and fatigued expire
Stock says to Stohp, "We didn't exactly have a lot of time to make decisions here on bringing Drezz and the other candidates to the Palace. Maybe that's the new SOP for elections. I like the idea. I also like the idea of setting a trap with the evidence.
Drezz - What form is this evidence? Papers? Books? Paintings done by local masters? Apologies if you told us this before." ====================== Here's the link to the party treasury: http://bit.ly/2x0LVar Delia has already claimed 3 items...Stock is passing on this batch
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 118/139 AC: 31 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 29 Thursday June 30th, 2022 11:59:31 AM
Zanderallen wonders how many more assassins might still active in the city after the last 24 hours, but he's not going to argue with the added security of the palace. He wonders what the Overlord thinks about his speech but frankly doesn't care all that much. "Taking all the candidates to the palace also lets you keep an eye on all of them, doesn't it? Very well, I can't think of any reason not to accept your gracious invitation. We can leave the evidence for now, we'll see how the next 24 hours play out." Zander is ready to depart. ------------------------------ Protections on Drezz Cast at 11:30am Shield Other - +1 AC, +1 Saving Throws, half damage taken goes to Zander, must stay within 50ft - 10 hours Delay Poison - Poison doesn't affect target until spell ends - 10 hours cast at 11:55am Magic Circle Against Evil - +2 AC and Saves vs Evil, Immune mental possession by evil entity, Evil summoned creatures cannot enter the circle - 100 minutes Divine Bond +3 Weapon enhancement on Shield 13 minutes 4/5 Smite remaining 4/12 Lay on hands remaining
(OOC: Zander is leveled, not adding the bonuses till we get a chance to rest. Zander is also passing on any magic items from this batch. Thanks for recording those Jon.)
Delia (Hannah) HP: 97/97; AC 28/17/22; CMD 31 Thursday June 30th, 2022 12:18:41 PM
Delia turns to Drezz when his evidence comes up,"Is the evidence something you can have someone fetch for you? I don't know if anyone dangerous will be watching it, but if not, I could retrieve it with a low chance of being seen. Being loud about it to set a trap works too." After her suggestion, she will continue to remain on watch.
====== (I'd be replacing the +2 protection and resistance with a +1 each for loot purposes. And will happily relinquish claim if others don't have a +2 version either - will be leveled tonight or tomorrow & for reference am at 485,700)
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 AC 21 [0/130]; 1/10 CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 Thursday June 30th, 2022 5:25:58 PM "If you are the only one who knows where the evidence is, and please keep it that way if that is the case, then taking you to the palace may be safer." Bartomus offered, then he continued. "But, if it is in the hands of someone else, then we may need to move it to a place where it is safe and where others have seen it so it doesn't suddenly vanish. You have made accusations, but if the evidence vanishes, well then is there in fact proof of what you said?"
XP - 470450 based upon the tally sheet and level 14. Bartomus will follow along with everyone else.
DM Robert - "I like the idea." Thursday June 30th, 2022 6:03:44 PM
Armalad 490 check wonders about setting a trap, again collateral damage. Stohp thinks the palace might work and wonders why it was not the first place to go. Stock wants to know what the evidence looks like. Zanderallen is for getting to the palace to rest. Delia offers to get the evidence. Why don't you bump to 490 as well Bartomus asks about the evidence. _____________
Drezz says, "Well actually the evidence isn't actually in the city. I thought it best to have it hidden elsewhere. I can send for it but it may take a few days to get here. It's large, documents, notebooks, witness names and such. I really don't want to say more with anyone nearby that could overhear things and spread the word." He thumbs toward Rothchild and Gilcrest.
Overlord Aerashkiel answers, "Well I didn't want to make is seem that there was favoritism involved in protecting a candidate. And usually after the ceremony in the temple there's more that one choice so the candidates do some heavy campaigning in the city. But now with things the way they are, I can justify bringing everyone to the palace."
Aerashkiel turns to Lord Marcus Rothchild and Gerard Gilcrest who are lingering just inside the temple. They both look unpleased. She says "Is that agreeable to you two?
Gilcrest nods emphatically. Rothchild sneers a little "If it please your lordship."
The magic carpet service will conduct everyone up to the palace.
Armalad (Hugh) HP 80/93 AC 24 / Touch 18 / Flat 18 CMD 25 Thursday June 30th, 2022 11:09:13 PM
Armalad requests a private audience with the Overlord when they get to the palace.
If granted she will pitch her idea for Drezz's protection to him.
She says, "Sir, your palace is large enough that we could put Drezz in one room but use the false vision spell to make it appear as if he was in another room at the opposite end of the palace. With your permission I would like to do just that. We sequester Drezz in a room in one wing and I cast the false vision spell on said room making it appear to be in another wing. We have a skilled guard detail lying in wait at the other location and when the assassins show up, Drezz will be nowhere nearby and the assassins can be dispatched"
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 46/86 hp AC: 27/15/23 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 24 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) d20=10 ; Friday July 1st, 2022 7:22:51 AM
Stohp keeps a close eye on things during the trip (perception 27)
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 118/139 AC: 31 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 29 Friday July 1st, 2022 2:10:50 PM "It's your call Drezz, but seems to me we're going to need that evidence sooner rather than later. I agree with keeping it quiet though." Zanderallen is not fully convinced of the safety of the palace. But it should be harder for anyone who doesn't belong to get there. He stays near Drezz at all times. -------------------------------- Protections on Drezz Cast at 11:30am Shield Other - +1 AC, +1 Saving Throws, half damage taken goes to Zander, must stay within 50ft - 10 hours Delay Poison - Poison doesn't affect target until spell ends - 10 hours cast at 11:55am Magic Circle Against Evil - +2 AC and Saves vs Evil, Immune mental possession by evil entity, Evil summoned creatures cannot enter the circle - 100 minutes Divine Bond +3 Weapon enhancement on Shield 13 minutes 4/5 Smite remaining 4/12 Lay on hands remaining
Delia (Hannah) HP: 107/107; AC 28/17/22; CMD 31 d20+23=24 ; d20+14=17 ; Friday July 1st, 2022 2:34:24 PM (leveled)
Delia keeps a general watch as they move Drezz, wondering if the Shields will be expected to protect Rothschild and Gilcrest now that they were outed as Lords of Diamond. She frowns, hoping that responsibility will fall to the palace guards instead of them. Hawky circles through the air above them as they take the flying carpet, watching for anything out of the ordinary.
Perception: 24 Hawky Perception: 17
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 AC 21 [0/130]; 1/10 CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 Friday July 1st, 2022 5:15:45 PM "So, your Overlordship, what would you like us to do?" Bartomus calls after the Overlord and before the carpet starts ferrying people to the Palace. He rides along and gathers with the other Shields while looking about.
DM Robert - "what would you like us to do?" Saturday July 2nd, 2022 3:26:58 PM
Armalad proposes a plan. Stohp keeps an eye out. Zanderallen is not sure about the palace. Delia and Hawky stay on alert. Bartomus wonders what the Overlord has in mind. Stock ? _______________
Please let me know when your characters are all raised.
The Overlord responds to Armalad "That seems dramatic but I guess it sounds reasonable as well. I hadn't planned much beyond moving your combatants out of the way of our constituents."
To Zanderallen and Bartomus she says, "Stay on guard with Drezz. While I trust Captain Vala we've seen just how the wealth and power of the Lords of Diamond can draw from a vast amount of resources."
You are shown to a suite of rooms where you can rest. suite
Once you get there Drezz says, "I can contact and have the documents sent for, if you can get me a feather token."
DM Robert - "what would you like us to do?" Saturday July 2nd, 2022 3:26:58 PM
Armalad proposes a plan. Stohp keeps an eye out. Zanderallen is not sure about the palace. Delia and Hawky stay on alert. Bartomus wonders what the Overlord has in mind. Stock ? _______________
Please let me know when your characters are all raised.
The Overlord responds to Armalad "That seems dramatic but I guess it sounds reasonable as well. I hadn't planned much beyond moving your combatants out of the way of our constituents."
To Zanderallen and Bartomus she says, "Stay on guard with Drezz. While I trust Captain Vala we've seen just how the wealth and power of the Lords of Diamond can draw from a vast amount of resources."
You are shown to a suite of rooms where you can rest. suite
Once you get there Drezz says, "I can contact and have the documents sent for, if you can get me a feather token."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 46/86 hp AC: 27/15/23 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 24 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Sunday July 3rd, 2022 10:55:45 AM
Stohp isn't needed for the moment so she'll go on the errand to get a feather token.
Armalad (Hugh) HP 88/101 AC 24 / Touch 18 / Flat 18 CMD 25 Sunday July 3rd, 2022 11:37:36 PM
(OOC: Leveled; I'll have to look at the spell list of the spell book we captured, figure out what I don't have and start making my copy rolls a day at a time)
Armalad says to the Overlord before they go, "Can someone show me to the room where we are planning the trap so I can get the details right for my false vision?"
Assuming she gets and escort she goes and studies the room carefully planning to recreate the scene with her false vision. She then returns back to the group.
Armalad says, "I guess I'll get us set up then. If you are okay with my plan that is Drezz. I think I should start with a tiny hut and then my second spell."
Cast Nondetection Drezz Tiny Hut - 10 Hours : unmoving, opaque sphere of force of any color you desire around yourself. Half the sphere projects above the ground, and the lower hemisphere passes through the ground. As many as nine other Medium creatures can fit into the field with you; they can freely pass into and out of the hut without harming it. However, if you remove yourself from the hut, the spell ends. False Vision - 10 Hours : This spell creates a subtle illusion, causing any divination (scrying) spell used to view anything within the area of this spell to instead receive a false image (as the major image spell), as defined by you at the time of casting. As long as the duration lasts, you can concentrate to change the image as desired. While you aren't concentrating, the image remains static. Prepared: 0th: Detect Magic, Message, Light, Toros Taur Try 1st: Feather Fall, True Strike - cast, True Strike-cast, Mage Armor, Mage Armor, Alarm 2nd:Glitterdust - cast, Glitterdust, See Invisibility - cast, See Invisibility, Detect Thoughts -cast, Rope Trick 3rd: Tiny Hut, Tiny Hut, Fly-cast, Nondetection 4th: Nondetection (3rd level in 4th level slot) - cast, Resilient Sphere - cast, Confusion 5th: False Vision, Waves of Fatigue
If Drezz is on board she casts Tiny Hut first and then False Vision making the vision of Drezz appear to be a Tiny Hut in the other wing of the palace.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 118/139 AC: 31 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 29 Monday July 4th, 2022 4:18:42 PM
Zanderallen calls out after Stohp that they already have 2 feather tokens from the Overlord but she's already gone. Oh well, getting an extra wouldn't hurt. Zanderallen checks the doors and windows to the outside to see how secure they are. "Anybody ever heard of assassins getting to the Overlord's palace before?"
Delia (Hannah) HP: 107/107; AC 28/17/22; CMD 31 d20+23=34 ; Monday July 4th, 2022 5:48:50 PM
Delia will join Zanderallen in checking on the windows and doors around Drezz's quarters and peering into any shadowy corners (perception 34)
DM Robert - "what would you like us to do?" Monday July 4th, 2022 5:54:25 PM
Stohp takes a moment to get a feather token, forgetting that Zanderallen had some. Armalad sets a trap. Zanderallen wonders about assassins making it to the palace, no one has ever assassinated an Overlord. Bartomus? Delia sees nothing of interest. Stock ? ________________
Armalad basically take the same room layout but flip it 180 degrees (east to west).
The big speech having taken place at 1, you find yourself ensconced in the palace at a mere 1:30. Time is on your side.
A palace guard comes by to announce that there will be a large ball/banquet at 9pm. Everyone is invited. The Overlord is going to bring up all the important people and business men from the city. It is another opportunity for Drezz to get the word out.
Drezz is very excited about attending. "It's the last chance to make an impression before voting starts tomorrow."
Consider yourselves with 8 hours rest, even if it's not quite 8 hours. The palace cleric will heal everyone back up to full.
Armalad (Hugh) HP 101/101 AC 24 / Touch 18 / Flat 18 CMD 25 Monday July 4th, 2022 11:44:52 PM
Armalad says, "Oh goody so we can go to a dance with all the muckity mucks of the city where hidden among them will be Lord of Diamond Assassins because Lords of Diamonds are big muckity mucks themselves. Whatever could go wrong?"
(OOC: Re: the 8 hours rest. Does this mean I could change some of my spell selections?)
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 46/86 hp AC: 27/15/23 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 24 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Tuesday July 5th, 2022 8:27:38 AM
Stohp returns with the feather token and gives it to Drezz. She decides not to dress up for the party - she's there as a guard and needs to look like it. Also, she doesn't want to get in a fight without her armor.
Stock (JonM) HP: 172/172; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 34; Rage: 0/35 used Tuesday July 5th, 2022 1:17:31 PM
Stock hears Stohp mention how she is not going to be in fancy dress and nods wholeheartedly. "That finery the Drow gave us won't stop an axe like my armor. I'm wearing it. Granted I can't dance at the ball like I could in my silk but, dance is not a skill that I've been graced with anyway.
Armalad - you are both speaking the truth and also overthinking it. Somehow problems just seem to find us and then get resolved. It comes with the territory of being a Shield.
Z - is your plan to bestow the same kinds of protection on Drezz as he had for the speech?" ============ Get in your last minute Catacombs requests on the loot sheet. I'll be selling everything tomorrow Stock is Level 14
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 AC 21 [0/130]; 1/10 CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 Tuesday July 5th, 2022 2:36:26 PM "Sorry, lost track of things there for a bit," Bartomus said with no real specific aim in mind other than to explain his staring off into space as the announcement was made about the public event that evening.
"I could wear the Drow courtier clothes, but I agree with Stock, it doesn't have the protection that armor provides. I think I need to see about investing in something that is a bit more fashionable and very protective.."
He looked about trying to find a good location to rest and focus his thoughts on the events that might transpire later in the evening.
Delia (Hannah) HP: 107/107; AC 28/17/22; CMD 31 Tuesday July 5th, 2022 3:08:30 PM "Good. Dressing up seems like a waste of effort to me. Remaining a visible and looming presence is probably a good idea too. I don't know if the fancy "muckity mucks" care for the Shields as much as regular people, but the reminder that we are backing Drezz is good for his politics? Right?"
DM Robert - "Dressing up seems like a waste of effort to me. " Tuesday July 5th, 2022 6:11:22 PM
Armalad is not happy about the banquet (yes you can change spells). Stohp is ready to guard at the banquet. Stock is not made for dancing....eating maybe. Bartomus prepares for the evening. Delia is ready to stand guard as well. Zanderallen? _________________
Time creeps on. Drezz is excited. "Oh I say, I love having this glamor effect on my armor." Drezz proceeds to stand in front of a mirror and 'change' his clothes by concentrating.
Next post is the start of the banquet, unless you want to do something more preppy.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 AC 21 [0/130]; 1/10 CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 Tuesday July 5th, 2022 7:58:20 PM "So our goal tonight is to protect Drezz and not get anyone injured in the process, right?" Bartomus asked the group as they started to get ready to go to the banquet.
"Oh, unless they are the bad guys and are trying to kill Drezz or any of us, right?" He quickly adds.
Armalad (Hugh) HP 101/101 AC 24 / Touch 18 / Flat 18 CMD 25 Wednesday July 6th, 2022 2:05:55 AM
Armalad says, "Unless anyone wants to quickly divy up that loot and sell what we don't want so we can buy new gear from the catacombs I think we are ready."
Cast Tiny Hut - 10 Hours : unmoving, opaque sphere of force of any color you desire around yourself. Half the sphere projects above the ground, and the lower hemisphere passes through the ground. As many as nine other Medium creatures can fit into the field with you; they can freely pass into and out of the hut without harming it. However, if you remove yourself from the hut, the spell ends. False Vision - 10 Hours : This spell creates a subtle illusion, causing any divination (scrying) spell used to view anything within the area of this spell to instead receive a false image (as the major image spell), as defined by you at the time of casting. As long as the duration lasts, you can concentrate to change the image as desired. While you aren't concentrating, the image remains static. Prepared: 0th: Detect Magic, Message, Light, Toros Taur Try 1st: Feather Fall, True Strike, True Strike, Mage Armor, Mage Armor, Grease 2nd:Glitterdust, Glitterdust, See Invisibility, See Invisibility, Detect Thoughts, Rope Trick 3rd: Tiny Hut, Lightning Bolt, Fly, Haste 4th: Shapable Fireball, Resilient Sphere, Confusion, Crushing Despair 5th: False Vision, Waves of Fatigue, Shapable Shout
Stock (JonM) HP: 172/172; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 34; Rage: 0/35 used Wednesday July 6th, 2022 9:26:41 AM
Stock shakes his head at Bartomus, "No, that's not my goal. That sounds too much like only going halfway to me. If the Lords of Diamond pop up tonight again and things get physical, I'm not pulling any punches."
If anything, Stock's demeanor shows just how ticked off the dwarf is. It doesn't seem like it will be hard for him to summon his RAGE.
Delia (Hannah) HP: 107/107; AC 26/18/20; CMD 32 Wednesday July 6th, 2022 10:59:39 AM
Delia trades out the new ring and cloak, adds the amulet, and is ready to go. She nods in agreement with Stock. One of the assassins had already killed some priests. The only quarter shown would be to get answers, but since none of them so far had known anything useful, she would just have to see what happens.
DM Robert - "If the Lords of Diamond pop up tonight again and things get physical, I'm not pulling any punches. " Wednesday July 6th, 2022 5:48:12 PM
Bartomus wants to make sure of the directions for the night. Armalad is ready (You know you have to remain inside the Tiny hut for it to continue the duration, and it can't move?) Stock is ready to level the field at the slightest provocation. Delia is in agreement with Stock.
Stohp? Zanderallen? __________________
The banquet hall is quiet large, it is open air to a 'second' story high and there's a balcony that looks down into the hall on the west wall. There's stairs up to the balcony level at either end of the room (north and south edge of the west wall). It looks like it has been set up as a buffet service line as well as waiters moving about the room with trays of various beverages. Since it is indoors everyone has their mask off. Many are dressed in their finery, but some have opted for some armor options.
1-Perception 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {You spot Happy in the crowd. He seems to be talking to some other people you've not seen before.}
2-Perception 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You spot Rothchild and Gilcrest in the room. They seem to be walking around eating from small plates that they deposit on waiters trays when they grab a drink. They are not together.}
3-Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You spot Lieutenant Lestrade and few other guardsmen in the crowd. They appear to be wearing finery above their normal spending allotment. The guardsmen you recognize are all from the fence level.}
4-Perception 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {You spot Phaela Vala on the second floor balcony. There's a constant stream of waiters that seem to be coming to her, but they don't have any trays with them.}
5-Perception 30 Highlight to display spoiler: {You note that all the waiters are armed under their white coats. Lestrade and his men are armed as well.}
Knowledge Nobility 15 to not stick out like a sore thumb and give the wrong impression of the Shields to the more gentile folk.
Diplomacy 20 to stay with Drezz and not muck things up.
Intimidate 20 to stay with Drezz and make anyone think twice about anything.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 AC 21 [0/130]; 1/10 CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 d20+15=31 ; d20+15=22 ; d20+15=32 ; d20+15=30 ; d20+15=23 ; d20=6 ; d20+7=26 ; Wednesday July 6th, 2022 11:43:36 PM
Bartomus followed the others to the party and tried to fit in, but gave it up to just glare at anyone that got too close to Drezz that he didn't recognize. He waived at Happy and shrugged off the fact that he didn't recognize anyone the bar owner was talking with. What he did notice was the livery of the guards and that it had been upgraded rather well above their pay.
"Anyone know if the Guard suddenly received bonuses lately? Otherwise, we might not want to rely upon their help in anything right now." He shared with others standing near him. "Also what's Phaela up to?"
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 94/94hp AC: 27/15/23 CMD: 24 (+4 vs grapple, disarm, +2 vs trip) d8=6 ; d20+17=20 ; d20+17=31 ; d20+17=19 ; d20+17=32 ; d20+17=24 ; d20=8 ; d20+10=30 ; d20+2=8 ; Thursday July 7th, 2022 12:44:15 AM
(I have dinged. Can you even make knowledge checks untrained?)
Stohp notices some things but not others and doesn't comment on them either way. In her leather armor she certainly sticks out (nobility 6) but she doesn't muck things up for Drezz as she sticks close to him (diplomacy 30). She's not very scary (intimidate 8)
Stock (JonM) HP: 172/172; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 34; Rage: 0/35 used d20+19=33 ; d20+19=32 ; d20+19=20 ; d20+19=37 ; d20+19=31 ; d20+18=23 ; Thursday July 7th, 2022 9:25:12 AM
Stock wanders around the party in a slow circuit centered on Drezz wherever he is. If and when he sees somebody giving the Drow the business, he wanders over and scowls at them until they leave Drezz alone.
As he wanders past Bart, he hears the question and says, "They are probably 'undercover' though I'm not sure who they are trying to fool. And I'm not sure what Vala's up to..."
In general, he sticks out in crowds like this and doesn't really care.
========== Perception 33, 32, 20, 37, 31 Intimidate 23 Knowledge check untrained can only be attempted up to DC10 although I think you could aid somebody Autofail on Nobility
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 94/94hp AC: 27/15/23 CMD: 24 (+4 vs grapple, disarm, +2 vs trip) Thursday July 7th, 2022 9:29:22 AM
Specifically Stohp noticed Rothchild, Happy and Gilgrest, and Phaela Vala. Which is nice because I don't remember who most of those people are (I am bad with names)
Delia (Hannah) HP: 107/107; AC 26/18/20; CMD 32 d20+30=40 ; d20+1=15 ; d20+23=38 ; d20+23=36 ; d20-1=9 ; d20+23=24 ; Thursday July 7th, 2022 12:35:07 PM
Delia lurks around 30 feet from Drezz, trying to stay out of the way of the fancy people she knows she will offend, but close enough to intervene should it become necessary.
Her eyes steadily pass over the crowd, taking in the flurry of activity. She watches Rothchild and Gilcrest for a moment, then moves on, unless they get close to Drezz. She gives the same consideration to the well-dressed guards, ignoring them unless they get close to Drezz. She notices the "waiters" reporting to Phaela, noting the odd shapes under their coats that could only be weapons.
Whenever anyone who is armed gets within arm's reach of Drezz, Delia gets ready to spring into action. She also watches for disturbances in the crowd that could mean someone going against the flow of traffic
============ Stealth to lurk nearby relatively unnoticed: 40 (Ranger lvl 12+ gets a hide in plain sight in favored terrain ability (Camouflage) so I become one with the wall or something) Know (nobility): 15 (apparently staying out of their way is effective - or I fail because untrained) Intimidation if I do get noticed: 9 Perception: autosucceed first 3 38 v dc 25 36 v dc 30 General Perception if needed: 24
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 118/139 AC: 31 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 29 d20+7=21 ; d20+25=41 ; Thursday July 7th, 2022 5:42:48 PM
Zanderallen stays with Drezz, easily mingling among the nobles and other upper class. He wonders what so many of the Float level guard are doing in the Overlords palace. -------------------- Perception 21 Know(Noble): 20 (Take 10) Diplomacy 41
DM Robert - "They are probably 'undercover..." Thursday July 7th, 2022 6:13:49 PM
Armalad notices some things. Bartomus notices some things. Stohp tries to be diplomatic. Stock notices things and looks intimidating. Delia is observant. Zachary blends into society quiet well. _____________ Happy runs the Giggling Ghost where you sometimes get free food. Rothschild and Gilcrest two of the Outed Lords of Diamond. Lestrade one of the city guard you've had encounters with in the past. Phala captain of the palace guard.
1 - Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You suspect that the guard have been brought in to act as undercover guards since the full compliment of Palace guard are probably casually known to high muckety mucks. Also the full Palace Guard is decked out and stationed everywhere.}
2 - Sense Motive 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {You put two and two together. Phala is tracking Rothchild and Gilcrest. Everyone they talk to is tagged by a rotating 'waiter' that is always nearby offering food or drink on a platter.}
The party progresses quite a bit. Drezz is working the crowd and making inroads. Around 11pm Drezz says to you all "I would like to thank you for all your help. Whether elected or not, I will always remain in your service for anything I can provide."
A few minutes later Rothchild comes over to Drezz. He holds his hands in front of him in a sign of unarmed/peaceful intentions. He quietly says, "We should talk. Midnight? There's a conference room off to the side over there." He walks away.
Drezz has a look of deep contemplation. "If elected, I won’t be able to rule if assassins are coming right and left for me. I can't effectively rule from the security of the palace. At least it appears secure. I think meeting with Rothchild could be beneficial. I don't have enough to take the Lords of Diamond down completely because they are so secretive in their identities. Putting them to rest may take years."
He looks up. "Would you care to examine this conference room for safety?"
What do you want to do in prepping and reconnoitering the room?
Armalad (Hugh) HP 101/101 AC 24 / Touch 18 / Flat 18 CMD 25 d20+2=18 ; d20+24=32 ; d20+18=29 ; Friday July 8th, 2022 12:09:02 AM
Sense Motive: 18
Armalad - Perception : 32 Joker - Perception: 29
Armalad casts Toros Taur Try Minotaur on herself and Joker then both thoroughly examine the conference room for any surprises like trap doors, hidden passageways, hidden weapons caches, etc.
She then says to Drezz, "With your permission I'd like to cast resilient sphere on you after you enter the conference room prior to your meeting. You don't need to hug or touch Rothschild right? So if you are inside the resilient sphere you would protected for the 10 minutes the spell lasts. I mean you don't have to do this but I'm assuming we can't be privy to this meeting. If you say no will you at least leave the conference room door open so I can be closeby with a fly spell and see invisibility and a message spell cast on you and the party so we can know to rush over in case this is another trap?"
Armalad then gets near Rothschild and casts detect thoughts turning her thought detecting cone towards Rothschild and concentrates for the requisite 3 rounds to hopefully get all the details she can from Rothschild's surface thoughts.
If possible she gets near Gilcrest as well and reads his surface thoughts. She doesn't trust these guys as far as she can throw them and expects them to be up to something considering this could be like the last chance for 2 outed members to do something about Drezz and maybe not see them get taken out by others of their ilk.
If Drezz says no and her thought detecting exercise has yielded any troubling information she immediately divulges it to Drezz out of earshot of Rothschild and Gilcrest to see if he might change his mind about that Resilient sphere after all.
Potentially Cast dependent on Drezz (OOC: will update my spell tracking accordingly based on Drezz): Resilient Sphere - centered on Drezz - 10 foot diameter sphere that functions as a wall of force, protects Drezz for 10 minutes or until Armalad dismisses See Invisibility - Armalad - 100 minutes - You can see any objects or beings that are invisible within your range of vision, as well as any that are ethereal, as if they were normally visible. Such creatures are visible to you as translucent shapes, allowing you easily to discern the difference between visible, invisible, and ethereal creatures. The spell does not reveal the method used to obtain invisibility. It does not reveal illusions or enable you to see through opaque objects. It does not reveal creatures who are simply hiding, concealed, or otherwise hard to see. Message - Party + Drezz - 100 minutes: You can whisper messages and receive whispered replies. Those nearby can hear these messages with a DC 25 Perception check. You point your finger at each creature you want to receive the message. When you whisper, the whispered message is audible to all targeted creatures within range. Magical silence, 1 foot of stone, 1 inch of common metal (or a thin sheet of lead), or 3 feet of wood or dirt blocks the spell. The message does not have to travel in a straight line. It can circumvent a barrier if there is an open path between you and the subject, and the path's entire length lies within the spell's range. The creatures that receive the message can whisper a reply that you hear. The spell transmits sound, not meaning; it doesn't transcend language barriers. To speak a message, you must mouth the words and whisper.
Cast: Detect Thoughts: 60 foot coneshape emanation, concentration up to 10 minutes; Will Save 1st Round: Presence or absence of thoughts (from conscious creatures with Intelligence scores of 1 or higher).
2nd Round: Number of thinking minds and the Intelligence score of each. If the highest Intelligence is 32 or higher, you are stunned for 1 round and the spell ends. This spell does not let you determine the location of the thinking minds if you can't see the creatures whose thoughts you are detecting.
3rd Round: Surface thoughts of any mind in the area. A target's Will save DC 18 prevents you from reading its thoughts, and you must cast detect thoughts again to have another chance. Creatures of animal intelligence (Int 1 or 2) have simple, instinctual thoughts.
Stock (JonM) HP: 172/172; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 34; Rage: 0/35 used d20+13=32 ; d20+19=36 ; Friday July 8th, 2022 9:14:14 AM "Z - Stay near Drezz while we check this out. Let me know if there is anything you'd like us to look for."
Stock starts sweeping the series of rooms (in number order) looking for anything out of the ordinary. "Armalad - Do you detect any magic in here?"
At one point he climbs under the conference table.
============ Take 10 on sense motive 23 vs DC20 Sense motive 32 vs DC25 Perception - 36 sweeping the conference room and adjoining areas
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 94/94hp AC: 27/15/23 CMD: 24 (+4 vs grapple, disarm, +2 vs trip) d20+10=24 ; d20+17=26 ; Friday July 8th, 2022 9:58:41 AM
Stohp notes the undercover guards (senes motive 24) and helps check out the conference room (perception 26)
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 118/139 AC: 31 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 29 d20+20=28 ; Friday July 8th, 2022 12:40:35 PM
Zanderallen nods to Stock, managing to move through the crowds to somehow always be near Drezz without openly following him around. "I think talking to him is a good move. I think talking to him alone is too dangerous. I would like to be in attedance at this meeting" ----------------- Sense Motive 28
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 AC 21 [0/130]; 1/10 CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 d20+12=25 ; d20+12=18 ; d20+15=34 ; Friday July 8th, 2022 7:02:55 PM
Bartomus followed along with the others to sweep the conference room. As they look about, he kept looking about to see if there were any odd shifts in the room like what they might have seen with the creatures that attacked their HQ.
"What would be the best way to be in this room while it's going on? Change shape maybe?" he asked Stock.
[I] sense Motive 1 = 25: sense Motive 2 = 18 Perception 34
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 AC 21 [0/130]; 1/10 CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 d20+12=25 ; d20+12=18 ; d20+15=34 ; Friday July 8th, 2022 7:02:55 PM
Bartomus followed along with the others to sweep the conference room. As they look about, he kept looking about to see if there were any odd shifts in the room like what they might have seen with the creatures that attacked their HQ.
"What would be the best way to be in this room while it's going on? Change shape maybe?" he asked Stock.
[I] sense Motive 1 = 25: sense Motive 2 = 18 Perception 34
Delia (Hannah) HP: 107/107; AC 26/18/20; CMD 32 d20+4=11 ; d20+23=35 ; Saturday July 9th, 2022 12:02:21 AM "Wait, we're contemplating letting Drezz - who has had at least 5 different groups try to kill him in the past, what, 24 hours, out of our sight? That sounds like a hard no."
She will assist in examining the rooms, making sure to listen for things like out of place rustling that could give away invisible opponents as well. ================= Sense Motive: 11 Perception: 35
DM Robert - "I would like to be in attedance at this meeting." Saturday July 9th, 2022 4:17:05 PM
Drezz does a lot, (but never mentions casting detect magic.) Stock sweeps the meeting chamber. Stohp also checks out the meeting chamber. Zanderallen thinks they should be in the meeting. Bartomus examines the room. Delia is adamant about staying with Drezz.
__________
Everyone finds nothing physically amiss in the room. It's sturdy. In fact the outer walls (dark black line) are stone and the inner walls and doors are sturdy wood. The furniture is made of wood and quite sturdy. The privys are clean. The serving room has no food but is well stocked with wine and other alcohol. Each of the rooms in back has a desk and desk chair along with a two lounge chairs. There are no hidden doorways or secret passages. There are no physical traps.
Stock only Highlight to display spoiler: {you notice something odd about the outer walls. Close examination reveals the mortar to be glittery. There's diamond dust used in the mortar between the stones.}
If Stock mentions what he found, Knowledge Arcane 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {The walls have been proofed from teleportation, ethereal crossing, scrying, etc.}
Armalad finds Rothchild's mind a blank. He's protected from mind reading apparently.
Armalad finds Gilcrest and reads his thoughts Highlight to display spoiler: {He's running through various ideas to spin events into the their favor. His thoughts are revolving around an evolution of making the Lords of Diamond an opposition party to the government and spinning events to a more favorable light.}
Drezz tells everyone "Well the resilient sphere idea seems prudent, but I think I'd like to have a more open approach. However, I agree that you all should be in the room. It only makes sense. So how about not casting the resilient sphere right away, but have it ready if you deem the situation is getting out of hand."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 AC 21 [0/130]; 1/10 CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 Sunday July 10th, 2022 10:42:13 PM
Bartomus walked out of the meeting room suite and shrugged.
"Well, it's nice, clean, and tidy. So that makes me rather nervous, but that could just be me. We can figure out what we should do when Stock gets out here." Bartomus said shrugging and then pointing back at Stock.
"Hey, is there any like terrible curse that we can get the tree candidates to all swear to that will police them on their own? Like if someone tries to harm someone, those trying to harm anyone get turned into like dung beetles and live as such the rest of the mortal lives and not the bug's?"
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 94/94hp AC: 27/15/23 CMD: 24 (+4 vs grapple, disarm, +2 vs trip) Sunday July 10th, 2022 10:56:17 PM
Stohp considers. "If something goes wrong now, it'll probably be the remaining lords trying to kill all three of them because they've been outed. From what Drezz says that's a death sentence, so I half expect they want to meet to make some sort of deal."
Armalad (Hugh) HP 101/101 AC 24 / Touch 18 / Flat 18 CMD 25 d20+23=35 ; Sunday July 10th, 2022 11:11:34 PM
Armalad says to the others out of earshot of Gilcrest and Rothschild. "Rothschild's mind is a blank. He is protected from mind effecting spells somehow. Gilcrest is running through various scenarios of how to spin the outing of the Lords of Diamonds in his favor from transforming them into a secret society into an actual legitimate opposition party. I don't know if Gilcrest is powerfully placed in the organization, naive or ambitious but it is odd to me that Rothschild is the one who wants to meet with Drezz while Gilcrest is trying to scheme his way out of this. I don't like this as I don't know what Rothschild is up to but if we are going to be in the room where it happens with me readying a resilient sphere on Drezz at the first sign of trouble and Zanderallen ready to cast other protective / healing magic on Drezz should this go sideways we should be okay. We've kept him alive through 2 previous assassination attempts. Anyone got a death ward spell they can throw on Drezz prior to going into this meeting. I would hate for Rothschild to have some sort of death effect spell lined up and for us to miss it. Not that I know if Rothschild is capable of casting or anything but with enough discipline people can learn to cast off spells or use wands. I mean I tought Joker to do it."
Armalad casts the Message spell between the group and Drezz anyway in case things get hairy and they need to talk to eachother at a distance.
She readies to cast Resilient Sphere at the first sign of trouble when the meeting starts.
Know(Arcana): 35 - didn't look at the spoiler; pre-rolling in case Stock shares any insight.
Delia (Hannah) HP: 107/107; AC 26/18/20; CMD 32 Monday July 11th, 2022 9:33:01 AM
Satisfied that the room is safe, Delia will content herself with glaring in the general direction of Rothschild.
Stock (JonM) HP: 172/172; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 34; Rage: 0/35 used Monday July 11th, 2022 9:56:06 AM "Whoa check that out. This feels noteworthy. There's diamond dust in the mortars. Either there's some magic going on here or the Float is a lot wealthier than I thought, mixing diamond in their construction materials."
To Bart he says, "Probably no use to transform in the room in order to hide, we'll all be there. But you could always transform into living fire or something to present a more intimidating target. I don't know about curses but that sure would be useful. I guess in this story though, we're the curse and if either side asks up, we smash them like a dung beetle."
Stock listens to Armalad's description of what purpose the diamond might serve and nods. "Good to know. Keeps everybody from leaving at will. I'm not sure if it represents a trap or just a security measure for the palace. Let me ask Phala."
He ducks away from the Silver Shield Huddle and goes to find Phala and ask her about the diamond dust.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 149/149 AC: 31 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 30 Monday July 11th, 2022 3:37:43 PM "I've been preparing Death Ward ever since we started bodyguard duty, it just didn't last long enough to cover the whole speech so I was saving it for somebody to start slinging Death Magic. It should cover a quick meeting though. I wonder if this is a trap for Drezz, or if Rothchild is trying to work out a deal on his own, in which case it could very easily become a trap for both of them. While I would shed no tears for Rothchild's death he may have valuable information on other Lords of Diamond."
DM Robert - "Hey, is there any like terrible curse that we can get the tree candidates to all swear to..." Monday July 11th, 2022 5:34:30 PM
Bartomus wonders if there a curse that can be taken by everyone. Stohp theorizes about the meeting. Armalad reveals what she learned and says the conference room is fairly proofed. Delia tries to look menacing. Stock runs to Phala to ask for some information. Zanderallen wonders about what Rothchild could know about the other LoD. __
Stock finds Phala. She seems a bit put out as she has to stop her instructions to the 'servants', but then considers the priorities of the day. "Well there are some rooms in the palace that when it was built were made proof from all sorts of scyring and teleporting and such. Usually they are conference rooms, the treasury, the records room, and the Overlord's bedchambers. It costs way too much to do it for the whole palace but I guess when the Float was first built it was deemed an acceptable cost. At least that's what I've been able to determine. The city was built in the third age by the Teucri, and that's like thousands of years ago right?"
Drezz goes into the conference room and takes a seat. "I would like all of you to pick your seats. I'm not elected Overlord yet so I can't set up my advisory council yet. But I'd like your assistance in this. I know there's no way you could really serve on the council and still do what you do best for the Float but at least for this night I hope you can serve. And also maybe decide where Rothchild should sit. I mean it's his request for the meeting, we can set some of the rules."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 AC 21 [0/130]; 1/10 CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 Monday July 11th, 2022 9:44:50 PM "I kinda feel like I should hold up one of the walls outside one of these hallways, if you all don't mind." Bartomus pointed to where the two hallways opened into the conference room. "Probably be helpful if someone else took the wall on the other side too."
He looked at the table and where Drezz took his seat.
"How the ends pointing back towards the kitchen and the privy be the seats for the guests? That way no one is claiming the center there as their's as none of you are elected yet?"
[I]Bartomus will take up the space at the corner of the conference table at ST2/3 and pointing to the other corner near ST 13/14 & Drezz.
Armalad (Hugh) HP 101/101 AC 24 / Touch 18 / Flat 18 CMD 25 d20+24=25 ; d20+18=29 ; Tuesday July 12th, 2022 12:30:19 AM
Armalad sits at O12, Joker sits at N12.
Armalad says, "For this night I will serve, and while I am fairly smart and nimble, politics and people skills aren't really my thing. I don't like that a certain someone was a blank to me but I guess we will just have to deal. Hopefullly this isn't a trap but I can't help feeling like it is. At least this place is proofed against teleportation so we don't have to worry about rogue spellcasters dimension dooring in. I feel like we've dealt with that far too often recently."
Armalad also readies to cast resilient sphere on Drezz at the first sign of trouble and keeps an eye out for said trouble
Perception: 25 - Armalad Perception: 29 - Joker
Cast - Message 100 min - party + Drezz + Joker; whispered conversation within 200 foot range Cast - Toros Taur Try (Minotaur) on Armalad and Joker; +1 Perception / Intimidation - 10 minutes
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 94/94hp AC: 27/15/23 CMD: 24 (+4 vs grapple, disarm, +2 vs trip) Tuesday July 12th, 2022 5:26:15 AM
Stohp will park by the door at K/L 9/10. That way she can hopefully catch anyone who tries to break in. Or run out after doing something foolish. She also checks all the other doors into the room and locks them if possible.
Stock (JonM) HP: 172/172; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 34; Rage: 0/35 used Tuesday July 12th, 2022 9:48:54 AM
Stock nods along with the room layout and considers sitting next to Rothchild, wherever the man sits but then rejects it as too overtly aggressive. Stock knows he can be almost as aggressive from across the room so he chooses to sit at the middle of the table that Drezz is at (O12).
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 149/149 AC: 31 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 30 Tuesday July 12th, 2022 4:04:56 PM
Zanderallen likes Bart's suggestion but gently guides him to take a seat on Drezz's side of the table. "I like keeping the center of the table open to show equality. But we should all sit on Drezz's side since we're taken to be supporting him, regardless of actual individual support, no reason to crowd out Rothchild or anyone he might bring. It would be an honor to serve as your advisory council for the evening Drezz." Zanderallen takes a seat immediately adjacent to Drezz, Q12.
Delia (Hannah) HP: 107/107; AC 26/18/20; CMD 32 Tuesday July 12th, 2022 4:12:00 PM
Delia will remain standing behind Drezz (Q13). She gives him a slightly sheepish smile, "I'm honored, but I'm much better off being your bodyguard than your advisor. Plus... if necessary, it's easier to shoot Rothschild - or anything else - when I'm already standing..."
DM Robert - "... if necessary, it's easier to shoot Rothschild - or anything else - when I'm already standing..." Tuesday July 12th, 2022 6:07:32 PM
Bartomus leans on a wall. Armalad and joker takes a seat. Stohp checks the doors, they all lock from the inside. Stock looks to pick a seat, but then notices that Armalad beat him to his choice seat, so he settles to sit between her and Zanderallen. Zanderallen takes a seat and asks Bartomus to reposition. Delia stays on her toes.
----
Armalad, Knowledge Arcane 18 Highlight to display spoiler: {Ring of Mind Shielding. Also I don't believe you ever cast detect magic and looked around the banquet hall. There's a lot of idle rich with the magical do dad to enhance something or other. Not to mention what the known Lord of Diamond people may be wearing.}
Rothchild enters followed by Gilcrest, a woman enters with them and you recognize Florance DeChancy, the other Lord of Diamond that Drezz outed. You're not sure how you missed her in the banquet hall. Rothchild smirks at you. "Well Drezz, quite the spectacle you've created."
Drezz seems cold and distant. "I have no idea why Flower revealed me to be a Lord of Diamond. But I guess you know some of it from my speech. I intend to make the Lords of Diamond pay for all they have done, especially the murder of my sister."
Rothchild responds, "You're a fool Drezz. You have no understanding of real politics and nuisances with which you are up against." He pauses and then points at all of you in a sweeping gesture. "Democracy is over-rated. It can't make the hard decisions during hard times. It has to appease the masses to stay in power. The Float needs to be run by true nobles and have a new king. That's what you're up against Drezz, and it's not going to stop."
Knowledge Nobility to rebut his claims of nobles and kings being the best form of government. Not setting a number, you can refute in character or roll, better/higher role of course will cite more convincing arguments.
He continues, "As to your sister. Well she's been gone a long time now and unfortunately you will never be able to extract your revenge. I did some checking, The Lord responsible was Crimson. And he is no longer around."
For those of you that have been around a while... Knowledge local 5 or Intelligence 5 Highlight to display spoiler: {Lord Crimson aka Lord Damon Perimon. He was a thorn in your side for quite some time and is currently a prisoner of the Merfolk for what he was attempting to do with them, as well as what you uncovered of his doings in the city. Feel free to recount his evilness and your justice upon him.}
Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {For someone with a supposed death sentence on his head he seems pretty calm. He's not trying to work any kind of mutual assistance pact. Do you question him?}
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 AC 21 [0/130]; 1/10 CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 d20=14 ; d20+7=12 ; d20+12=30 ; d20+5=12 ; d20+5=18 ; Tuesday July 12th, 2022 8:45:46 PM
Bartomus took his position holding up the wall. He watched as the parlay began with the entrance of not two of the Lords of Diamond, but what must be a third member of the group Drezz had called out in his speech. He caught the smirk from Rothchild and made a note that he needed to renew his own membership in the "not a fan of that man" club. He watched as Drezz cooly laid out his basis for what he had done and nodded in agreement as it was consistent with what the man had repeatedly said from the start. Bartomus felt that that deserved some level of recognition, but Rothchild had none of it.
"Isn't always interesting that those wanting kingdoms always assume they will be the king and not someone that gets tossed in a dungeon by one of those supposedly supporting them? Sorry, sorry, shouldn't have spoken up." Bartomus spoke with a slow, steady tone and looked at Rothchild when he mentioned being a king, and then with a growing more and more sickeningly sweet smile turned his gaze from Rothchild to Gilchrest. As he finished his question, he ended it with a wide smile and winked at the Lady of Diamonds that had come in with the other two. He then shrugged as he muttered his apologies.
Knowledge Nobility - blind role - 14; Knowledge Local - Crimson - 12 (Good lord and I played for a while...Bart you are killing me!) Performance 12 (keys stuck so ignore the 18)
Armalad (Hugh) HP 101/101 AC 24 / Touch 18 / Flat 18 CMD 25 d20+23=32 ; d20+10=27 ; d20+10=12 ; d20+2=6 ; Wednesday July 13th, 2022 2:00:07 AM
know arcana - 32 = pass know nobility = 27 know local = 12 Sense Motive = 6
Armalad says, "Personally I think a pure democracy is nothing more than mob rule. However I think a monarchy is also overrated considering one hands sovereignity over to a family or lacking heirs a designated successor for essentially no good reason. I'd love for citizens to be truly sovereign to make their own decisions and stand or fail completely by their own merit however I don't think that is possible in an area as large as the float, I think that system would be theoretically possible in a small locality but the Float is too big an area for that to work. With that being said a representative system of government where the people hold free and fair elections to elect their chosen representatives is probably the best we can do. The people get their say in who gets to be Overlord but then the Overlord is designated with making the tough decisions. While personally I believe in the Woldian pantheon I don't quite understand why Flower gets to play an outsized role in the candidates considered "worthy" and I think that part of our electoral process a bit too theocratic for my taste, the people do have the ability to reject Flower's chosen candidate or candidates at the ballot box so I guess the people still have the ultimate say, though I imagine having the endorsement of one of the Gods must carry no small weight. I guess if I had to chose my preferred system of Government I'd say libertarian sovereign citizens is greater than an elected representative system is greater than a democracy is greater than a monarchy. No one man should have all that power, it must be tempered by something whether it be the will of the people or some other check or balance a monarchy is far too easy for a tyrant to abuse and Rothschild it seems to me that you are nothing more than a would-be tyrant."
Joker says, "You tell 'em boss"
Armalad clears her throat and says, "As for Lord Crimson well I believe he was dealt with by The Shields before my time with them. I believe he's rotting in a merfolk prison at the bottom of the ocean somewhere for what he attempted to do to them. Though one could argue Crimson is just a cog in your machine so in order to have true justice for Drezz's sister taking your entire corrupt organization down does seem fitting. By what right do you collectively have to rule? Just because your ancestors were prominent in the founding of the Float or your family amassed a lot of wealth doesn't mean you personally are anything special for just as no man should be penalized for the sins of their father should no man be elevated for their father's accomplishments. Rothschild you will be judged and you will be found wanting."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 94/94hp AC: 27/15/23 CMD: 24 (+4 vs grapple, disarm, +2 vs trip) d20=6 ; Wednesday July 13th, 2022 7:18:02 AM
Stohp is unimpressed and uninterested in Rothchilds self justifying philosophy. She keeps a close eye on things and waits for him to get to his point (perception 23)
Stock (JonM) HP: 172/172; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 34; Rage: 0/35 used d20+4=13 ; d20+13=18 ; Wednesday July 13th, 2022 10:23:25 AM "So wait - we're just supposed to take your word on the whole 'Crimson did it' thing? So here's the real problem with your super secret society. Once the cracks start to form, it just falls apart. I mean how can anybody trust anything that you say? Also how does it even work now for you that you've been outed?...I pity you." His tone is dripping in (fake?) sympathy as he finishes.
"As for the proper form of government goes, I'll leave that to the intellectuals just so long as it provides the services that ordinary folk need to thrive." ========= Local 13 Sense Motive 18
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 149/149 AC: 31 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 30 d20+10=20 ; Wednesday July 13th, 2022 3:13:20 PM
Zanderallen fights to maintain an aura of calm, What would Micah do? he echos in his head as he marshals his rebuttal. He then speaks with deadly intense but a level voice, "Let us not mince words over Crimson, better know as former Lord Perimon. He was himself one of your so-called "true" nobles. Who abused his power, abused his station, and attempted to dominate the hard working men and women of the lower levels for his own personal gain. And for his arrogance now rots in the deep in Merfolk prison. This is the kind of man you would elevate to rule the Float?! The nobility of this city is rotten to the core, scheming, plotting, and murdering to line your own coffers. That is why you hate us so isn't Rothchild? Because we have foiled your enrichment schemes in protection of the common people? You build a temple to Domi on the Open Air level but you throw his tenets out the window as soon as stepping over the lower classes adds coin to your purse. Do you know where the Silver Shields came from Rothchild, hm? Merchants of the Fence got together to encourage and supply a group of people they thought could make the Float a better place. What if that ability was given to all the levels, to elect representatives, to have a say in how the city is run? Instead of the Open Air nobles lording it over all with this stupid lottery? What if, god's forbid, even the Trash Level got to elect representatives to the City Council? Maybe they could actually make it a place where the guard wasn't scared to go. But that doesn't benefit your does it Rothchild, have you been promised Kingship? Oh, that would be something wouldn't it? King Rothchild. Makes me sick just thinking about. What support do you think you have Rothchild that you're so confident in your assertions? There is still time to cut a deal, the nobles also needs representatives on the council, reveal the Lords of Diamond and you might escape the doom awaiting them." ----------------- Know (Nobility) : 20 Know (Local : Auto pass Sense Motive: Auto pass
Delia (Hannah) HP: 107/107; AC 26/18/20; CMD 32 d20+8=18 ; Wednesday July 13th, 2022 5:35:56 PM
Delia snorts in derision at Lord Rothchild's claims about government and leaves it to her compatriots to refute.
========== Sense Motive: 18
DM Robert - "...just so long as it provides the services that ordinary folk need to thrive." Wednesday July 13th, 2022 5:57:43 PM
Bartomus takes a stab at Rothchild. Armalad dissertates. Stohp is vigilantly unimpressed. Stock tries to pity Rothchild. Zanderallen gives a cutting reply to Rothchild. Delia? __________
Drezz is taken aback. "Lord Crimson was Lord Damon Perrimon? And he was responsible for my sisters death. And is now beyond revenge, but I guess he is also serving justice in a way." He sighs.
Rothchild sneers at you. "It's a good thing to have a bit of blackmail to keep the assassins at bay. We all learned from Crimson with that ploy. His father kept a well packed diary that he threatened everyone with in order to have his plans take precedence all the time. With your spouting of evidence at the speech it put some of the assassination plans on hold. But if you reveal all that you have then there would be nothing protecting you would it?
Knowledge Local 15 (Stock, Stohp, Zanderallen, or Bartomus since you're the only remaining 'old' players) Highlight to display spoiler: {Way back in the Rosebud episode you learned that the then Lord Perimon had had a book stolen and was looking for it. He had been stolen by the person that was murdered in that episode and it was in fact the 'missing' diary of evidence. It has not yet been found.}
Drezz says, "Be that as it may I promised the people the evidence would be made public and it shall be. So you three are definitely going to be shown for what you are. But perhaps I should hold back on some of the other pieces until I've managed to uncover everything." He turns to you all "I ask your opinion, is holding back some of the evidence to ensure against assassination attempts a reasonable thing, or should I reveal everything I've managed to uncover. And of that I'm sure it's only a tip of the iceberg."
Rothchild rolls his eyes. "Yes ask political questions of the hired muscle. Think what you may about the Lords of Diamond. You will soon face us in a new light. I've spoken with several others. I think that we may come out as a party of opposition. So I warn you, if you become Overlord you may be safe from assassination if you hold back but if you continue with this vendetta then we shall see how attentive the rabble is to a long campaign of he said she said. It would be better to work with us than against us."
Drezz shakes his head, "I just can't do that, working with you would go against everything I've worked for." He looks to each of you. "What would you recommend?"
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 94/94hp AC: 27/15/23 CMD: 24 (+4 vs grapple, disarm, +2 vs trip) Wednesday July 13th, 2022 8:09:31 PM
Stohp remembers the book mystery, though not if it was ever known that it was blackmail materials for the other lords. At Rothchild's claims Stohp smiles pleasantly. "If we had that book you and your associates would be dead. Executed for the crimes no doubt mentioned in it. I suspect one of your fellow lords has it for leverage in exactly this scenario. I look forward to pressuring whomever it is to the point they are forced to use it. to save their own skin." She's not trying to intimidate him, just stating cold fact. The others can and probably will provide intimidation.
To Drezz she says, "We have so far outclassed every assassin sent after you, and the supply of expert assassins is not endless. Rothchild wouldn't be talking to us at all if he didn't think his situation dire for all of his supposed confidence, and the other Lords would be happy to murder and make scapegoats of those whom you've revealed. Make no deals with any of them that doesn't help us bring in the rest, or your entire operation will be wasted as the worst of them escape justice. When one of the two turns up dead, the other will come running to us Or they both die as is their just deserts and we have to press on without them. Rothchild's position is patently ridiculous and should be ignored."
Armalad (Hugh) HP 101/101 AC 24 / Touch 18 / Flat 18 CMD 25 Wednesday July 13th, 2022 11:42:32 PM
Armalad says, "We've managed to stop every assassin that has been sent at you, but can we continue to do what we do and guard you as Overlord? We can serve as your council tonight and your continued personal guard at first assuming the people heed Flower's advise but there will come a time when some situation arises where we Silver Shields are the best situated to handle it and we must be dispatched to deal with it. You've promised the people transparency, if elected I think you should deliver on that promise while it could be prudent to hold some information back, perhaps if you reveal everything you know others will come forward that know things emboldened by your example and we can be rid of the Lords of Diamonds once and for all. If you hold back and they do transform themselves from shadowy power brokers and shot callers to an in the open opposition party then they can attack you for a lack of transparency if you do hold back what you know. I argue you share everything you know with the people even if it is only the tip of the iceberg and then we move fast in dismantling the organization based on what we do know. Alternatively now that we know about this existence of this condemning book once in the position of Lord Crimson but now vanished we mount an expedition searching for it. It seems like if we could come into posession of it, it would provide a blue print for getting most if not all of the Lords of Diamonds. There has to be some way either arcane or divine to determine where the book is located and then it is only a simple question of retrieving it."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 AC 21 [0/130]; 1/10 CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 d20+7=14 ; d20+7=14 ; d20+7=22 ; Thursday July 14th, 2022 12:39:38 AM "I do think you have a pickle on your hands your lordships, and ladyship." Bartomus smiled from the far wall. "Way I see it, there's additional evidence out there in someone's hand and they have it. What is already revealed might just be the pieces they needed to put everything together right? Just like Stock was saying?"
Bartomus looked across at his fellow Taur and shrugged uncertainly.
"But, here's the thing. The paper already has a story and is waiting for even more of one. I think the fancy folks up top, kinda forget that it is all of those folks down below that make things work for them. Suspect that there are others we could ask for help to make sure things go fairly - some ratkin, drow, oh and merfolk. Not sure your magic carpets will get you all that far. Messages are all written out and would be tree walking with the druids in a moment's notice. Wanted a war did you? Really, want a war? With one army in the lower parts? Three more coming through portals, trees, and from the bottom of the lake? Sounds rather fun actually?"
Bartomus smiles wickedly at Rothchild.
"Such grand fun, you two would want to play in that game, wouldn't you, your ladyship?"
Know Local - 14, so following Stock's lead Bluff - 14 - about the papers and Pepper Pots Intimidate -21 - about the war
Stock (JonM) HP: 172/172; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 34; Rage: 0/35 used d20+4=21 ; Thursday July 14th, 2022 9:24:54 AM "Share all your information Drezz. If I remember right, your goal was never to be the Overlord anyway, only to dismantle the Diamonds and right a wrong done to your sister. You can accomplish that and you might still be stuck with the Overlord position...don't know why anybody would want that...Anyway once you are Overlord, you can do your best to right this ship. And don't worry about the effect this tit for tat will have on the common people. They'll persevere like they always do. It's usually the nobles that end up with their head on a pike."
============ Local 21
Delia (Hannah) HP: 107/107; AC 26/18/20; CMD 32 Thursday July 14th, 2022 10:22:48 AM
Delia steps up to stand right behind Drezz's shoulder, looking at Rothschild, "Cornered animals are the most dangerous. Keep your promises, Drezz, and we'll keep ours to put down whoever comes after you."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 149/149 AC: 31 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 30 Thursday July 14th, 2022 1:33:23 PM
Zanderallen grins, like a tiger playing with his food, "Rothchild, my poor deluded lord. Drezz has walked away from how many assassination attempts now? Which thank you by the way for paying for those during the debate, really no better bit of evidence that a secret organization is trying to kill you than when they try to kill you in the middle of revealing them. For calling us hired muscle you really do make a flub out of your own political maneuverings. Kind of like when you lost out on advantageous trade deals with the new lizardfolk town because they knew how to ask all the right questions. Or when the drow made trade deals with all the local merchants because a random trade festival popped up. Or when you lost out on the free trash services of the ratfolk so they could have a better life. But we're just dumb hired muscle."
He then turns to Drezz, "Don't be swayed for an instant with his heavy handed attempts to dissuade you from your path. Let the Lords of Diamond come out in the open if they want, expose as many of them as you can. Let them see how long the attentions of the Fence, Barracks, and Merchant levels will hold out if they want. I'll back the people, not these wanna be lordlings. My advise is give them each 24 hours to join you in taking down the Lords of Diamond or to fall with them."
DM Robert - "If we had that book you and your associates would be dead." Thursday July 14th, 2022 5:41:58 PM
Stohp says what's on her mind. Armalad muses about the missing diary? Bartomus bluffs about the paper already having a story. Stock is for laying all the cards on the table. Delia encourages Drezz to stay the course. Zanderallen hands a piece of crow pie to Rothchild. ____________
Drezz nods to you. "Thank you for your confidence and support." He turns to Rothchild, "Let the chips fall where they may. I made a promise and I intend to keep it. You can join me in revealing what evidence each of you has or face public trial for your crimes. I'm sure you haven't managed to corrupt all the courts. I doubt the people are so naive as to believe any so called flim-flamery you think you can pull over their eyes."
Rothchild harumphs and stands. His lackeys follow him out of the meeting.
Anything your characters want to do to influence the election or do you want to stay holed up with Drezz in the Palace the next day?
Armalad (Hugh) HP 101/101 AC 24 / Touch 18 / Flat 18 CMD 25 Friday July 15th, 2022 12:33:06 AM
Armalad says, "Should we go out and campaign for Drezz or send some of us who are persuasive to do so? I'm not really good at people skills but maybe I could shoot arrows with vote for Drezz notes tied to them into walls or notice boards?"
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 94/94hp AC: 27/15/23 CMD: 24 (+4 vs grapple, disarm, +2 vs trip) Friday July 15th, 2022 8:11:46 AM "If I saw an arrow that said vote for someone I would take it as a threat, not an ad campaign. Those who think they can help can do so by all means but most of us should stay on guard."
Stock (JonM) HP: 172/172; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 34; Rage: 0/35 used Friday July 15th, 2022 9:23:19 AM "I'm not much for standing around but I'm not sure how good I'd be at campaigning. If anybody else heads out, I'll accompany you.
Drezz - Let me know if you want me to hang fliers anywhere."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 92/92 AC 21 [0/130]; 1/10 CMD 20 Melee +12;Perc+15;Heal+9 2d8+2 Friday July 15th, 2022 10:31:55 AM "If we are going to go out, shouldn't we take him with us? Or, are we going to split? I mean I like the digs about here, glittery and all, but wouldn't mind a good meal down at the Ghost." Bartomus said and his stomach grumbled in agreement.
I will do the Level 14 upgrade of Bart this weekend.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 149/149 AC: 31 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 30 Friday July 15th, 2022 1:57:53 PM
As much as Zanderallen would like to go out and talk to their friends he knows that his place is by Drezz's side until the election is over. Being most able to protect him and easily move among the circles in the palace made too strong an argument for staying in the palace. He gives Drezz space to move and make connections among the movers and shakers at any events going on but always manages to be within reach in case something happens.
Delia (Hannah) HP: 107/107; AC 26/18/20; CMD 32 Friday July 15th, 2022 3:38:11 PM "Ok... so other than completely destroying the Lords of Diamond, how do we stop them from trying to kill Drezz? Is there like a 'if you survive 3 weeks, great job! You made it' clause? "We can only keep a constant watch on him and defend him from every threat for so long, and even then there's always the chance that something slips through."
DM Robert - "...but wouldn't mind a good meal down at the Ghost." d100=5 ; d100=11 ; d100=67 ; Saturday July 16th, 2022 6:23:59 PM
Armalad asks about campaigning. Stohp thinks guarding is more her thing. Stock is up for poster hanging. Bartomus is down for another meal, like the banquet wasn't enough, but then did he eat there? Zanderallen is going to stick by Drezz's side. Delia wonders how long they have to guard Drezz.
________
Drezz says, "Thank you for your concern Delia. But one way or another I feel it will all be over after the elections. As we just had that meeting, it seems the Lords of Diamond are content to let the cards fall where they may. I think too many of them may feel safe in their anonymity. I think it best we stay here though until the election is over."[b]
Night descends.
The next day is election day and all the Float heads to the polls. There is actually a polling booth on the palace level where you can go to cast your votes. Probably because much of the staff can't get time away from the many chores of running the palace, keeping it clean, cooking, guarding, and the like. In any case it is a vastly boring day for you all.
By evening it is announced. Drezz won by a landslide and will be appointed the next Overlord. There were a few votes for Rothchild and Gilcrest but hardly worth noting.
There's a knock on the door. Answering it you see Captain Phaela Vala and a full contingent of palace guards. [b]"Overlord Drezz we are here to escort you to the main suite. It is secured from entrusions by magic and proofed against all detection spells. Further, we've ejected the other candidates from the palace. Overlord Aerashkiel will meet with you and go over all the details for transfer of power."
She turns to you'all. "Thank you for your service. I'm sure we could not have gotten this far without your help. Tomorrow is Mask day and the big ceremonies are going to in full swing."
Knowledge local 10 or Intelligence check of 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {As written in the module, mask day requires all residents to be present on the street for the big parade at their designated places. You of course have assigned places on the Fence level. The procession by the undercrat starts at the highest level and then descends into the Trash level to enter the sanctum. After that the 20 undercrats procession up to the temple of Flower with many but hardly everyone joining after them to witness their fates and choices.}
Drezz turns to you'all as well. "I can't thank you enough. It seems you've saved my life at least 4 times or more with all these assassination attempts. Rest assured you'll have no more trouble with the city council and you have but to ask of me and I will help you with whatever you need."
EVERYONE gets 6000xp each for role playing.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 114/114 AC 21; CMD 20 Melee +13;Perc+16;Heal+9 2d8+2 d20+7=8 ; d8=8 ; Saturday July 16th, 2022 7:59:18 PM
Bartomus smiled at the Captain and realized he had absolutely no clue what was said. His mind was swirling as he started to see a way to cast a very different spell using fire and at the same time heard a whisper that told him he could make someone dance whether they wanted to do so or not.
When Drezz started speaking, he focused on Drezz and not the ideas that had locked into his mind. He nodded and then smiled.
"Well, it's been an adventure and then some, but congratulations Overlord and just promise to do all of those things you promised you would do now that you can, ok?" He walked over and shook the man's hand.
[I]Knowledge float..um failed, of course, he did. But, leveled up and realized (a) his hit point score was not current and (b) rolled an 8 so that was awesome for Bart.[/i}
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 94/94hp AC: 27/15/23 CMD: 24 (+4 vs grapple, disarm, +2 vs trip) Sunday July 17th, 2022 3:25:54 PM
Stohp is a little concerned that there's some follow up assassination plot coming, possibly during the precession. Still the previous overlord who was after the Diamonds never died so presumably they can handle it. She's familiar with Float costumes (+17 local so auto pass)
Armalad (Hugh) HP 101/101 AC 24 / Touch 18 / Flat 18 CMD 25 d20+10=23 ; Sunday July 17th, 2022 11:28:12 PM
Know Local: 23
Armalad says, "Congratulations Overlord Drezz. You won in a landslide so I guess the endorsement of the Gods and assassination attempts while you are exposing a shadowy organization in a speech combined to win the day. I agree that you must honor your promise of total transparency when it comes to dismantling the Lords of Diamonds. I still think we should use either divine or arcane means to try to locate that book of blackmail the late Lord Crimson had on the other lords of diamonds. WIth that in your posession Drezz you could dismantle the organization in no time based on what the others said."
She continues, "If you do happen to turn your magical energies towards that book and you find where it is and you need help retrieving it, I'm willing to help out with that."
Delia (Hannah) HP: 107/107; AC 26/18/20; CMD 32 Monday July 18th, 2022 12:33:47 PM
Delia will shake Drezz's hand in congratulations, "Now that you're one of the big, powerful people, don't forget about the little guys. Stay safe."
She is then ready to return to HQ and hopes for an assassin free Mask Day.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 149/149 AC: 31 T: 13 FF: 30 CMD: 30 Monday July 18th, 2022 4:55:04 PM
Zanderallen congratulates Drezz on his win, "Don't bet on this being over just because you won the election. And remember if you want to really make some changes on the Float you're going to have to come talk to the people lower down than the Open Air, or even the Gold Levels. If the palace doesn't get to you, you can count us among your friends. If the nobles get to you then we might just have to test how secure this palace is." Zander makes all his statements with a large grin and deadly serious, or is he? He's not sure himself if he expects Drezz to make anything change.
Stock (JonM) HP: 172/172; AC: 28/25/16; DR 3/-; CMD: 34; Rage: 0/35 used Monday July 18th, 2022 5:03:43 PM “Good luck, Drezz. Just remember- with great power comes a great ability to squash the little guy accidentally. Don’t let that be you.”
LOG ON