“You, you sweet child, over there. Welcome. Behold, the magic and wonders unimaginable within the Wold itself, mysteries to confound and delight the mind. Please welcome, please enter… if you so dare.”
The full mustached halfling barker in a coat that was not quite red continued to beckon from just above the din of the city. Sparks flew at the unassuming doors of the “Banne Ears Hall and Marx” Card Shoppe and Museum, ignored by the citizens that walked by. And so it sat, the Skull Shaped Temple of Gargul visible to the hills above, the beckoning bars and shops continuing beyond the street.
Legends spoke of the days before. Of dark clerics and bright shadows wandering the streets, back before it became the place to find the best bars, the most interesting stores. Back before the city leaders began to beat back the energy from the scar, before they began to cleanse the city as the newest tourist destination of the Ellennian Peninsula.
Rumors spread far and wide, attracting a wide variety of onlookers, of fortune seekers, of those looking for fame. And above all, for those who wished to truly know their destiny.
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OOC
Welcome, all, to the first post of Nightmare Quarter, the Woldian’s newest module. This is the time for your character to see the sights, partake in the tourist attractions, and of course introduce your characters. In the next post, you’ll get the location to pick up your first assignment.
Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11 Monday February 28th, 2022 2:42:53 PM
To Nintos: "Well, I was born ~ what date is it today"? Hearing the answer he declares "Wow, it was my Birthday yesterday"! Fen has an infectious happy, innocent energy. "Like a leaf in the wind I drifted here, but I do not know what this place will be to me yet, 'Home'? He shakes his head and the spider in his antlers falls out of it's cobweb, but having pre-webbed itself it twangs back like an elastic band, face planting its own web. Shaking itself the spider crawls out of sight. Fen walks with Nintos and asks all sorts of questions about his life. He seems very curious. In return he offers. "I was born in a Sea-Cave. I miss those days sometimes, it was peaceful and I had many friends. Finchy always made me laugh"! He dances around mime-impersonating 'Finchy' who obviously did some kind of crab~robot dance "And Beldor" he gasps and wriggles his hands "She was the best you've ever met at tickling!" Then he becomes serious. "Then I met my first humans, elves and dwarves and they needed help so I went on a long journey, it was a quarter of my life! Eventually we stayed in a town where I met some people from the WLA who gave me a shiny badge after I told them what I was like. Then the last quarter of my life was another long journey. I think now I have found this magical City there cannot be much more to my life. So I have come here to face death and die"! He faces up proudly puffing out his chest in defiance ~ fearless!
DM Melvin Monday February 28th, 2022 2:45:31 PM
Most of the new adventurers easily begin hearing of a place called the Catacombs, where oddities are easily purchased, and wherein jobs can often be found on the various boards.
Other businesses begin to reach the adventurers eyes and ears: the Crooked Inn, the orphanage, the Raven's Alehouse, Grumble and Sprock. But it eventually becomes clear that the Catacombs is a common destination for those seeking fortune and fame.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 4 Monday February 28th, 2022 3:24:47 PM Myre looks around. Her mother was no stranger to the dark and spooky, even if it did hide the goofy woman she could be when she let her guard down. She used to disfigure herself every morning to gain power. She'd bleed in a day more than Myre had her entire life (at least up to the point where she got herself enslaved by those orcs). Myre wonders whether she'd feel at home here, or consider it passé. She looks down at the rubber pig cradled in her arms and smiles. "Yes, she'd say it was passé, but would she mean it?"
She pauses and chuckles. Here she was, a continent away from her mother, half-way around the Wold to get some space. Even here the woman took up residence in her thoughts. She banished them, and moved on. She absent mindedly pet Waddles (the aforementioned rubber pig) as she walked. She didn't usually walk around with him, but in this place it seemed...appropriate. Here, she is simply a weirdo amongst weirdos.
Myre looks up at the night sky and feels the familiar pang of longing. She still does not know where the pang comes from, or indeed whether it is her pang at all. Her petting of Waddles ceases, the pig suddenly uncomfortable in her arms. The moment passes and she resumes her ministrations of her beloved (maybe) companion. She returns her white hair back behind her almost-pointy ears. She smooths the little night-blue dress she wears against the dark-elven skin she inherited from her mother. One could be forgiven for not seeing her father's influence in her features, though she sees them in the mirror every day (think: when was the last time you saw a drow with emerald green eyes?). Mostly, her father can be seen her her immaculate appearance and tasteful outfit (as well as the faint smell of lavender).
...and here we were, back thinking about her parents. She looks down and scowls, angry with herself. This behavior would. not. do. She looks up at the gaudy little halfling. Maybe he could distract her for a while. She tucks Waddles under her arm with a practiced motion and points up at the curious creature. "You there, strange man. I seek a distraction. Entertain me. She awaits his response.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Monday February 28th, 2022 3:50:51 PM I am sure I will see you at the catacombs, well met new friends!
Grothic takes a quick trip to the orphanage. He had heard that a group of crimson somebodies set up an orphanage here. He wishes something like this could have provided him and his brother a better childhood. Grothic discretely donates 5 gold, leaves and makes his way to the catacombs.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Monday February 28th, 2022 3:54:42 PM
Paige approaches the northernmost gate of the Big City. As she passes through, she notes a sign marking it as Quest Gate. The young cleric advances several paces into the square in front of her, before stopping in order to ensure she isn’t blocking traffic coming up behind her. Astonished and nearly overwhelmed by the sights and sounds that surround her, she slowly turns full circle taking it all in and trying to orient herself. She looks for a signpost that might provide directions or a map.
Turning to Rhys the red-headed half-elf asks: ”should we check out the WLA* headquarters first, or get something to eat?” . Turning to her other travelling companions, she enquires: “you fellas want to split up, or stay with us?”
Paige Potter is a medium height (5ft 7in) half-elf with a broad shouldered athletic build. Tip tilted green eyes hint at her elven antecedents, though colouring and rangy muscular build (140 lbs) comes from her human father. She is dressed in comfortable travelling clothes in mostly brown colours. The clink of scale mail is muffled by a voluminous brown cloak held together at the neck by a WLA pin badge. There is a pack on her back, with a mace - it’s spiky head covered by a thick hide pouch - firmly attached.
*WLA - Woldian League of Adventurers
DM BrianZ Monday February 28th, 2022 5:21:27 PM
OOC- Jonathan, I updated your post header link. Please update the numbers
Fingers (Shawn) AC 14, HP 13/13, CMD 15 Monday February 28th, 2022 8:02:24 PM
The Catacombs! That's it! Someone had told Muuru that jobs can often be found on the various boards there.
In the late afternoon, when the stalls at the market have started closing down, Muuru does the same. He packs his largest tools and materials into a few nondescript crates. The traps are hidden from the observer, of course, but so are the locks, to keep them from seeming too interesting. Then he proceeds to the Catacombs.
When Murru came to Plateau City, he was more than a little self-conscious walking through the streets. At eight foot, two inches tall (not counting his horns) and 1200 pounds, he was sure that the staring humanoids were all thinking the same thing:
"That's the shortest minotaur I've ever seen."
But by now, he'd heard none of the short-jokes he was used to back on the Taur Isles. Maybe the populace hadn't seen enough minotaurs to know that he was not quite as massive as most of his fellows.
The thought made him smile.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Monday February 28th, 2022 10:01:45 PM
Kwarsk replies to Paige, "Rhys, I am eager to get to the Catacombs to see what jobs are available, but your mentions of the Woldian League of Adventurers intrigue me. Perhaps we could all stop by the WLA HQ first, then on to the Catacombs for the job board and the food shops therein? Hopefully they'll have some white gold... I think the humans call it... milk? Rothe produce nothing like it!"
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Monday February 28th, 2022 10:32:34 PM ”The WLA it is. They may be able to point us to reasonable lodgings while we are here and they too may know of work for us” Rhys replies. We can circle back to the Catacombs after that. They are both around this area”. The elf picks his way easily through the crowded square, sidestepping other denizens of the city with graceful abandon. His long brown hair falls over the back of the dark green cloak he wears. The simple leather and wire wrapped hilt of a long curved blade protrudes upwards from the scabbard strapped across his back. ” Follow me, I think I see the WLA symbol on that building ahead” he calls back over his shoulder.
When he arrives at the WLA headquarters he waits for his companions before entering, his badge is clearly displayed at the throat of his cloak. Once inside he will introduce himself and ask for information about accommodations and any work for new adventurers.
Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - CMD:13 - HP:11/11 - Spells Tuesday March 1st, 2022 6:49:59 AM
As they walk together Fen asks Ninto: "Where shall we go"?
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 1st, 2022 10:33:48 AM
As Fenfaran mentions coming to the city to face death and die, Nintos furrows his brow; “I don’t know if I can help you to face death and die. Yes, we do all meet our end. But having seen it first hand…” Nintos trails off as visible pain covers his face. A simple perception check would have you notice that Nintos is spinning a ring that is worn on his left hand.
“Yes, let’s walk! There are many wonders to be seen in this city. Though I am also relatively new to this city, I can help show you around a little bit?” Nintos smiles at the mention of the Woldian League of Adventurers; “I have heard many good things. Have you been to their headquarters here in Plateau City? Actually… If you are looking for an adventure I have heard of a place called the Catacombs where one could find a posting of jobs… Maybe you can face death there?”
With Pursed lips Nintos lets out a rhythmic whistle that calls Merletta to him. “Come, since we are already in the Dragon Quarter, let’s go take a look at the Catacombs and see what we can find.”
Fingers (Shawn) AC 14, HP 13/13, CMD 15 Tuesday March 1st, 2022 4:08:31 PM
When Muuru enters the Catacombs, his presence does turn a few heads. He's learned that by maintaining a pleasant expression, and simply saying "Excuse me" when he has to push through a crowd of smaller citizens, most will simply step aside and let him be.
The job posting "board" is actually several sections of wall and a few pillars. They are covered with small sheets of parchment, each describing a party, a mission, or an individual looking to join one. The pages have some kind of enchantment; when someone removes a sheet from the wall, a duplicate appears on the wall in its place, with the same writing.
Muuru takes a few pages describing potential employers, then he finds a stack of blank pages. He takes one, pins it to a wall, and writes down his name, skill set, and the location of his alleyway practice.
After pinning the sheet to a wall, he wanders towards the sales floor. He's first drawn to the magical trinkets and clockwork gadgets, until he notices several garment-dummies wearing chainmail.
Hmm. If I'm going start adventuring, I'll need some armor. And a weapon.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Tuesday March 1st, 2022 5:51:33 PM
Grothic watched the massive bull-man remove a sheet from the wall and then saw it magically reappear. He didn't want people to know he had never done this before, so he casually walked to where the minotaur was and removed the same slip of paper.
He looked at the sheet re-appear and back to the copy in his hand and wondered why he had bothered.
This would probably be incredibly useful, if I could read.
DM Melvin Tuesday March 1st, 2022 9:19:23 PM
Some people try to make their way to the closest WLA charter house. Others look for a good place to eat, like the Crooked Inn or the Raven Alehouse. A few of the sights and sounds.
Myre gets a little bit of a tour of the Card Shoppe and Museum, though card readings seem to be closed as "not the correct time" signs adorn the area. Grothic makes a donation to the local orphanage, a hallowed out yogurt shoppe that seems off, even for an orphanage in the wake of a black cathedral. Paige makes her way to the Raven Alehouse, and is served by a minotaur that would make Muuru feel small.
But all roads and rumors eventually make their way to...
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The catacombs bustle and flow with all sorts of creatures moving to complete their shopping. A small tiefling child is pulled away by her mother, admonished for staring at the floating pig. Linotaurs eye Muuru carefully as one receives a tatoo of glowing magic. Fenfarn and Nintos walk past a couple of adventurers arguing with vendors about the price of belts and headbands. Grothic stops by as the latest holy avenger sword is added to the display in a tent, a crowd straining to see how its design. Rhys and Paige feel the warm smell of popcorn as snack carts begin to move into position.
The catacombs connect throughout the world by magic and tunnels, the place to buy anything and everything a group might desire, and many of the new adventurers have no problem picking up weapons and armor, despite the crowds and overworked employees. (OOC: This will be the place to purchase items or sell treasure every time you end a module.) Everything from iron daggers to staves of power to what adventurers dream of after a hard day of clearing a kobold cave.
Muuru's post for someone looking to be hired attracts a number of onlookers, a crowd in its own right. And for a brief moment, a hooded figure in black robes begins to scan the crowd after reading it.
The board itself seems quite advanced for any of the new adventurers. Calls for negotiating with a dragon, or for clearing out a cave of ghouls and ghasts, or for fighting a demonic slavery ring - these seem more the norm. A posting to clear out a city of fire giants hidden in a pocket universe is notable for having already been claimed, and only by people with halfling names. A single sign says only "gremlin invasion" and the new adventurers wisely ignore it.
Eventually, however, a sign near a bunch of scribes catches the eye of each of you separately. A request from The Black Cathedral regarding a local matter, newer adventurers preferred, with a promise that it could lead to future assignments. The posting is vague: to perform a service to the local community and stop a group of criminals. The note instructs the group to report to the office of local administrative affairs at the Black Cathedral, Nightmare Quarter. The posting offers to pay 200gp for completion of the task, and a one time discount available at the Catacombs.(For purchase of a single half price potion cl1).
Each of the members inevitably pulls an address tag from the sign. And as you do, you see each other take this tab, the team beginning to form.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Tuesday March 1st, 2022 10:21:17 PM
Paige makes to follow her friend Rhys as he moves through the crowd. She glances backwards but can’t see her new companion Kwarsk who had been there just a moment before. Lost, and buffeted by the crowd she finds herself pushed towards an ale house she has no intention of visiting. The cleric doubles back towards Adventurer’s Square and ends up in front of an enormous castle-like market place.
”Rhys! Kwarsk! Grothic! Anyone! “ she calls, as she finds a spot against a wall, and tries to avoid getting trampled by the folks milling around in front of the big store called The Catacombs
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Tuesday March 1st, 2022 10:31:28 PM
Kwarsk ponders the tab held in his thumb and forefinger with curiosity, momentarily taken aback by the visions of Rhys, Paige, Grothic... and others (!) taking the same tab - a human, a beastman, a half-elf, and... a minotaur???
Kwarsk looks at his tower shield, then contemplates the minotaur... then contemplates a tower shield as big as a minotaur... good to see so many warriors in the group, why with the minotaur leading the charge, we'll be invincible! Now... hmm... no one looked like a traps expert... hopefully this quest doesn't involve a dungeon, else traps may be a problem... perhaps the minotaur can just step on the traps and crush them with his mass?
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Tuesday March 1st, 2022 10:40:34 PM
Rhys reaches the steps of the WLA headquarters and looks back only to discover that neither Kwarsk or Paige are in sight. He scans the crowd in the square to no avail and begins retracing his steps back towards the gate. It is only then that he hears Paige’s voice above the general din of the square. The elf swiftly navigates the crowd and arrives at her side. ”Are you OK? I lost you there for a moment and I have also lost sight of Kwarsk. Never mind, we seem to have found the Catacombs. Let’s go in and see what it’s all about. I hear they may have work postings for adventurers inside”.
Rhys guides Paige through the doors and into the famed marketplace. They spend some time scanning the postings and eventually come across one for work in the Nightmare Quarter working for the Cathedral. A number of other adventuring types have also grabbed copies of the same posting. “This one looks interesting Paige. Any job working for a cathedral must be working against evil, right?”. He shows the paper to Paige and scans the room. ”Look, there’s Grothic over by the wall, let’s see what he has found”.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 4 Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 1:34:29 AM Myre pulls an address tab off the listing, ignoring the fire giants posting. Even if she were powerful enough to take on such opponents, she knows better than to involve herself in the affairs of halflings.
She is not the most observant person in the Wold, but she can't help but notice she's not the only one holding the little paper tabs for the listing. She chides herself for her instinct to hurry and beat them to the job. She came all this way to meet new people, but old habits die hard. She grips Waddles and gives it a stern look for floating after it promised never to do that again*. She takes a breath and scans over the others. They seem to know each other already. Then, a voice calls out through the crowd:
"Rhys! Kwarsk! Grothic! Anyone!"
"I'm anyone," Myre thinks to herself. When she sees the tell-tales signs of another half-elf on the speaker, she makes up her mind. She takes a deep breath, then boldly walks (stomps) over to Paige and thrusts her hand out, waiting for it to be shaken. "I'm Myre." It takes her a moment to realize that may not be enough. "I, um...wanna go stop some criminals?" She holds up the address tab from the flyer.
*OOC: Waddles no longer floats. The Powers The Be had concerns Waddles was too cheeky, so there was some compromise.
Fingers (Shawn) AC 14, HP 13/13, CMD 15 Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 4:04:14 AM
"Pardon me," Muuru says to the half-orc holding a copy of the notice. "Are you a....party?" He points vaguely to the others who pulled the same notice. "I was thinking of applying for this mission, because I know some of the people at the Black Cathedral. I've done work for them...but they probably won't send me out on something like this by 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 Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 8:19:18 AM
As Nintos and Fenfarn enter the Catacombs, Nintos has to fight the urge to study what he sees. A floating pig, A magical tattoo. The underground magical network that spans the Wold. Not now, you’ll have time to examine these later.
Seeing the adventure board, Nintos waves Fenfaran closer; “Stay close if you want to find a way to ‘face death.’” As he examines the board Nintos begins to mutter under his breath; “humm, negotiations with a dragon would be interesting. Ghouls and ghasts… the dead should stay dead. Demonic slavers should be impeded from their trade,” turning to Fenfaran; “but if we lose there we would just become one of their slaves. No death to be found.”
Looking over the rest, Nintos believes they are just out of luck. That is until he spies the request from The Black Cathedral; “I think this is just the one! ‘New Adventurers’ is what they are requesting. Seems like us.”
Seeing others pulling the same tab, Nintos takes in the group. Seeing Myre’s hand out, Nintos extends his hand and shakes; “Hello Myre! I am Nintos, my friend here is Fenfaran.” Landing on his shoulder is a black raven; “Oh, this is Merleta!.”
“Criminals? I suppose so. My friend here is looking to face death. I think that this task would be a proper place to start. I’m not really the adventuring type, I am here to help Fenfaran. I prefer a good library or study.” ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Memorized Spells: 0:Acid Splash, Prestidigitation, Mage Hand. 1st: Summon Monster 1, Grease
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 8:29:27 AM Are you a....party?
Grothic looks up at the giant bull speaking to him. He had never seen a minotaur before, but noticed a slenderness and agility about him that would probably be a nasty surprise to anyone who met him in combat. Grothic wonders about the wisdom in facing something Fingers could not face alone.
I could be a party, as you need an escort and I need someone who can read what this says. How much does this job pay? Also, if you don't mind a few more, I met a capable looking group of individuals yesterday on the road. We all said we'd meet up around here to look for work.
Grothic scans the crowd.
Do you see a small drawbridge moving of its own accord? That's Kwarsk.
Fingers (Shawn) AC 14, HP 13/13, CMD 15, F:+2 R:+4 W:+0 Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 12:08:32 PM
Muuru scans the crowd; not sure what this fellow is getting at, exactly. "I'll keep an eye out. I'm called Fingers, and this says..." He reads the notice aloud to the half-orc. "I'll be honest," he continues. "I'm mainly a locksmith/trapsmith, and I'm looking forward to the 'future assignments'. But I can probably help knock a few street thugs around."
Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - CMD:13 - HP:11/11 - Spells d20+10=21 ; Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 6:47:21 PM
With Nintos Fen appreciates the tour asks exuberant questions. He also spots the movement of the ring (perception:21) but fails to understand the meaning, it has no context in his world.
As he enters Fenfaran looks like a boy (4 ft), then you notice the antlers, he wears hide and carries a staff with carvings and seems friendly if a little shy. "I'm not what's going on here but there is an alignment of energy that makes the hair on my arms stand up"! To make his point he holds an arm up slowly and ~ there's some fur, it's not much but it's furrier than a humans arm. Maybe it's standing up? Hard to say.
He watches everyone and introduces himself: "Greetings, I am Fenfaran". He puffs his chest out, it's like he's been rehearsing it. He means well though and seems to be enjoying himself.
DM Melvin Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 9:02:22 PM
OOC: I got a little lost with myself regarding the orphanage. The three things I wanted to get across was:
1) The orphanage takes up what used to be a storefront (yogurt shoppe). 2) The people who run the orphanage seem guarded in a way Grothic can't understand. 3) I forgot to mention this at the time, but there's something strange about the number of visible orphans... there aren't any, though Grothic doesn't go deep in.
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Paige gets lost. Rhys eventually finds her, and then gathers Grothic.
Kwarsk continues to contemplate the members of his group, glad to have a minotaur fighter on their side, but wondering who will handle traps.
Myre eventually joins up, quite glad to have avoided the affairs of halflings. (But for the record, if he took the time to know these halflings... he'd leave the continent.)
Slowly, the group begins to form. Fingers introduces himself, followed by Nintos, Grothic, and finally Fenfaran. Greetings are made, members are introduced and vouched for, and a team begins to form.
The tabs held by each of the members continue to beckon to the Black Cathedral's administrative offices. It doesn't take long for clues as to its location. Signage indicates that the Black Cathedral houses the largest religion in the Quarter, the worshippers of Gargul. And they beckon towards the large skull building in the middle of town. One of the signs speaks of an ice cream social tomorrow, but the job listing seemed to want someone sooner, it's magical ink shifting to add the word 'now' to it.
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The administrative offices of Gargul look more like the great document storage room of the planet, as papers fly between barely balanced boxes, only some of them food stained. In the corner, a large man can be found bumping underneath a desk, screaming for a "Miriam" to bring him yet more paper files.
Eventually, he pops out, a mug held upwards in triumph. His balding head swivels towards the adventurers in the doorway, and for a moment the world is silent.
"Tell your bosses I gave at the office," he finally whines. "Wait, wait, are you here for the... you know, the flyer?"
Fingers (Shawn) AC 14, HP 13/13, CMD 15, F:+2 R:+4 W:+0 Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 9:12:33 PM
"No," says Fingers. "We're here early for the ice cream."
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+6=23 ; Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 9:54:06 PM
Paige’s good friend guides her through The Catacombs steering her towards an employment board of sorts, from which he pulls a recruiting announcement. She watches as a middle aged man shakes the hand of an interesting looking half-elf with a piglet(?) tucked under her arm. The man introduces himself, and his young companion. The cleric waits her turn, then she too offers her hand - acknowledging each by name - ”Myre, Nintos, Fenfaran” nodding her head, as she clasps firmly, but is careful not to squeeze too hard. Looking at Fenfaran’s furry arm, she volunteers ”looks like you might be on to something, little guy. Same thing happens to me, but I feel it here - on the back of my neck.”. The half-elf lifts the hair off her neck and turns to show the beast-boy.
Propelled unceremoniously out of the marketplace, Paige spots her travelling companions from earlier. The dwarf and half-orc seem to have acquired a new friend who seems to know his way around the city and says he knows someone people at this Black Cathedral. Paige will follow those following the one who calls himself Fingers, since they seem bent on the same task.
Once inside the administrative offices, Paige studies the balding man, listening to what he says and attempting to learn what he doesn’t say. (Perception = 24)
DM Sanity Info: Orisons: 0/3 used Prepared: detect magic, guidance, light Level1 spells: 0/2 used Prepared: bless, magic weapon Domain Spells: 0/1 used Prepared: sanctuary
Having taken note of
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 9:57:16 PM
Kwarsk says to the bald man, "Ah... yes, sir, we're here for the flyer. I... we're ready to work. Who are the... criminals, exactly?"
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 10:57:44 PM
Rhys introduces himself to the others as they head out the door of the Catacombs and follows the minotaur and assembled acquaintances south through the Adventurers Square . “Remarkable” he thinks to himself, ”all of these races seem just as rash and impetuous as each other, a few tickets from poster advertising some work, a fast handshake or two and it’s off to who knows what danger. Is it excitement they crave? Or is it purpose?”
The elf follows along behind, taking in the sights as they cross into an area dominated by two large castles and a temple wit three domes before crossing a wide bridge over the river. This area is decidedly more rundown, shoddy houses and tenements line the dirty streets. Rhys instinctively keeps a tighter grip on his purse as they traverse the area before exiting upon a large dark cathedral in the shape of a skull.
Rhys stands next to Paige as the others converse with the bald headed administrator.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Thursday March 3rd, 2022 7:58:20 AM
Grothic points Kwarsk and his tower shield as he whispers to Fingers. That drawbridge. I thought it was dumb at first because it was so big, but standing next to it makes you feel safer. It's like a blankie for grown ups and he does all the work carrying it around. I don't really know much else about him except he really wants to try... Grothic looks again at his new bovine traveling companion. Something, I forget what.
He steps away from Fingers and addresses the administrator. "When you said gave at the office, did you think we were the criminals?"
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 4 Thursday March 3rd, 2022 10:52:42 AM
Myre walks along with her new...companions. We'll call them companions right now. Before they set off towards the Black Cathedral, she tucks Waddles back in her pack. She hadn't planned on meeting anyone today, else he would have stayed put away.
She has a brief moment of anticipation when ice cream is mentioned, but soon realizes this Fingers character was just being sarcastic. She manages to swallow her disappointment, making a note to suggest ice cream to celebrate once these criminals are dealt with.
...and on that subject, she waits to hear what this man has to say about them.
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=16 ; Thursday March 3rd, 2022 12:03:52 PM
Looking at those who have pulled the tab from the poster; “The Black Cathedral, I am not one who is big on architecture, but the way they built the Cathedral is rather amazing. If you were to fly above it, an amazing feat in itself, it has the look of a skull looking up to the gods.”
Walking with this possible forming ‘party,’ Nintos looks at those around him; “You all seem well equipped, ready for battle and travel.” looking at the one called Grothic and his weapons; “Have you see so much battle to need that many weapons?”
Entering into the Black Cathedral, Nintos thinks to himself; The worshipers of Gargul truly need someone with organizational skills. Those files are everywhere. What one could learn during that time… as he looks at the papers in passing.
Kwarsk, was his name? Direct and to the point, but then again, I don’t know many dwarves who like to dance around the matter at hand. But, why is this follower of Gargul so secretive… Merletta lets out a slight squawk as she flutters her wings on Nintos’ shoulder; “Yes, yes. I know.” (Sense Motive = 16)
Chiming in after the dwarf; “Yes, and possibly more important, what were the crimes they were charged with?”
Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - CMD:13 - HP:11/11 - Spells d20+10=18 ; Thursday March 3rd, 2022 3:23:49 PM
Fen looks at Myre's neck and smiles. Later he nudges her and asks: "What's ice cream"?
Following the crowd he looks around the cathedral and gasps when Nintos explains the skull. He frowns and pays close attention (Perception: 18)
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Thursday March 3rd, 2022 7:41:29 PM
Grothic replies to Nintos:
I have only seen one battle. I showed up at the end and from behind. My weapons and armor were looted from that incident. To tell the truth, I wish there was a way I could practice or spar without paying a trainer or committing a crime.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Thursday March 3rd, 2022 8:33:35 PM
Kwarsk, waiting for the bald man to reply, is someone dumbstruck by the cacophony of voices around him as the rest of the party enters, talking about architecture and flying and ice cream and the obvious comfort of a tower shield. And... wait... ice cream... Kwarsk turns to the minotaur (Fingers) twice his height and stammers out, excuse me great warrior, but what is this "ice cream" you speak of? I have enjoyed ice cubes, but found nothing creamy about them, compared to a stout mug of dwarven ale..."
DM Melvin Thursday March 3rd, 2022 8:53:48 PM
Fingers says he's here for the ice cream. (I'm pretty sure Fingers is joking, but the balding man takes him as seriously as Myre does.) Kwarsk and Rhys introduce themselves normally. Fenfaran wonders what this ice cream is exactly.
Paige tries to make what I assume is actually a sense motive check (which the DM roled silently).
Paige Only: Highlight to display spoiler: { The balding man didn't actually expect anyone to answer this ad. As Grothic presses him, Paige also gets the sense that he feels himself too good for this place. }
The man begins to stammer near Grothic, but eventually composes himself. "Sorry, let me introduce myself, Berem at your service," he continues in a low nasally voice, slow as molasses. "And, no, no... It's just administrative stuff, high level, you know how it goes."
Berem takes a deep breath, whispers a few reminders to himself, and begins his spiel. "We are the division of the cathedral tasked with nothing less than the ultimate cleansing of the Scar, the cursed site that left this area in darkness for so long. Having pushed back the dark forces, we are now ready to make this the tourist attraction it long deserved to become... you know, eventually, it's a matter at work."
He pointed to Nintos. "This guy gets it, right to the point," he continues slowly. "Well, this is a bit of a mundane matter, to start. Test a few people out, just a bit of a trifle really... some mischief... Anyone hear of something called The Poisoner's Guild? No, of course not, bit of puffery in the name."
He paused for a bit.
"Anyway, a few members of the guild have been making some waves, trying to restart stuff, bad for business, you know how it is. So, we just want to send you to some of the places sighted, see if you can track any of them, report back either way, and you get the money when you figure out what they've been working on. Kind of a chance to start some sparing now."
Before you can say yes or no, he begins to write on a paper information about your contact, Clarisse, and where to find her.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Thursday March 3rd, 2022 9:06:05 PM
Kwarsk hears Berem scribble, and being lower to the ground than the tall folk, leans over past his tower shield a bit in order to read as Berem writes... once Berem finishes, Kwarsk looks around to see if one of the tall folk is going to do their tall-folk thing and try to take charge of the situation just because they're tall. That's what Dad told him tall folk do, so Kwarsk, finally having an opportunity to watch tall folk in action, looks back and forth between them and watches, also noting that one, the beastfolk, is about Kwarsk's eye level, which makes Kwarsk sigh a bit in relief.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Thursday March 3rd, 2022 10:03:16 PM It has been a rough time for the 18 year old cleric. Walking half the day just to reach Plateau City, getting lost on her way to the WLA headquarters, mauled by the crowds in Adventurer’s Square, dragged through what seem like the seedier quarter’s of the City, only to be confounded by a self important buffoon? Paige just wants to get cleaned up and have something to eat….but 200 gold!…that’s 25 gold apiece for the 8 of them, when most regular folks are lucky to earn 10 silver a week!
“Let me get this right,” she says from her spot farthest away from Berem and his desk, 200 gold for ‘completion of the task’, which is to figure out what some folks who call themselves the Poisoner’s Guild are about? Can you be a little more specific?”
Paige can not see what the officious man is scribbling, but if she can catch the eye of any of the 8 who’s acquaintance she has made, she will nod her head in acceptance of the task. If Fenfaran makes eye contact, she will rub the back of her neck and grin at the beast-boy before nodding her head.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Thursday March 3rd, 2022 10:28:45 PM
Rhys stands with his back against the wall, arms crossed against his chest. ”Seems an odd thing” he says to no one in particular, ”to make amusement from a cursed place that has likely caused little but grief and suffering”. Rhys hopes that this Clarisse can provide more insight into the task at hand. ”Perhaps the WLA can share some information about this ‘Poisoners Guild’ and recent goings on in the Scar” he thinks to himself while awaiting the judgement of the group.
Fingers (Shawn) AC 14, HP 13/13, CMD 15, F:+2 R:+4 W:+0 Friday March 4th, 2022 3:03:49 AM
Fingers chuckles at the dwarf's question. "I'm just having some fun with our host here. Ice cream is a frozen dessert they're serving at a party tomorrow. If we do our task well, perhaps we'll be invited."
(Fingers waits for Berem to answer Paige's question. If he doesn't say something like "Clarisse will give you the details", Fingers will suggest it.)
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 March 4th, 2022 8:08:36 AM Earlier “Opportunistic,” Nintos says to Grothic as he explains how he received his weapons and armor; “Don’t sell yourself short. Seeing battle at any phase is a test of ones will and fortitude. Seeing the fallen will siphon the wheat from the chaff, and you are still here.”
Hearing Grothic mention a desire to spar, Nintos nods; “As you can see I am no warrior, but I might have just the answer. I can conjure forth different creatures, even if it is just for a short period. If there is free time, we could test your ability against different types of creatures.” Nintos shrugs questioning the Half-Orc. “Could prove interesting, and it would test my casting skills under pressure. A win win.”
At the Black Cathedral Listening to Berem, Nintos chimes in agreement with Paige; “Yes, I would also like more details. What kind of waves are the guild members making? Bad for whose business, the Poisoner’s Guild or… yours?” ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Memorized Spells: 0: Acid Splash, Prestidigitation, Mage Hand. 1st: Summon Monster 1, Grease
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Friday March 4th, 2022 2:20:38 PM
To Nintos That sounds interesting and I would like to take you up on it, when we have time.
To Berem When you say Poisoner's Guild, do they make the poisons or use the poisons? And just so everyone's on the same page, what do you expect us to do when we find them?
Fingers (Shawn) AC 14, HP 13/13, CMD 15, F:+2 R:+4 W:+0 Friday March 4th, 2022 2:22:48 PM "His business, of course," Fingers says to Nintos. "The Cathedral's business is the natural operation of life and death. A 'Poisoner's Guild' probably encourages death. Either they get paid for it, or they're some sort of cult that hopes to kill more people than every viper and scorpion that ever lived. And get paid for it."
Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - CMD:13 - HP:11/11 - Spells Friday March 4th, 2022 5:37:21 PM
Hearing Berem say he wanted a cursed area of 'doom and gloom' as a tourist attraction made Fenfaran's tummy churn, slowly he works his way to the back and when he sees Kwarsk people-watching he 'looks up' and winks, then notices Paige and grins back. A big cheeky one. Somehow she was all the way at the back and won the 'furthest away from Berem' game. He was just about to up his when Rhys speaks and Fen blurts out "SEE HE GEts ... it"! He starts off enthusiastic but as people look at him ~ it wanes fast! He gets stage fright and freezes. Then awkwardly shuffles out of sight.
As the conversation flows he listens and remembers a far away land. She who dances in the wind as he played his flute...
DM Melvin Friday March 4th, 2022 9:02:17 PM
Kwarsk decides to let the bigguns handle this.
Paige asks Berem if he can be more specific. Grothic asks what to do when they find them. It's at this pont that Alexander comes in to serve the team some coffee, and looks askew at the various questions.
Fingers already figured that Clarisse will give the details. Validating this, Berem notes that it's less about what to do when they find them, and more about finding what they are up to, and stopping them. "Aside from that, no no," Berem replies tensely.
Nintos is confused as to whose business. Fingers gets that it's Berem's business, contrasting the cathedral and a poisoner's guild on the philosophy of death. Berem nods along with this, adding slowly that "even the god of life and death cares about helping the neighborhood."
Grothic asks if the Poisoner's Guild makes or uses the poisons. "Both," Berem replied, with a glance at Alexander about the first one.
Rhys and Fenfaran are skeptical and philosophic about turning such a place into a tourist spot. "It isn't about the tourism," Berem replies defensively. "It's about rebirth. About bringing the true nature of Gargul back to an area that focused on the wrong side of life and death."
Berem sighed. "It is our job to aid the community by helping the members in need. There are tasks out there and we complete them, except... We're actually a bit outside of the Church of Gargul, here at the Office of Local Administrative Affairs. It's really just me, Alexander, Clarisse, and whatever priest wanders in on occasion, and everything else... that's why we're reaching out to adventurers like yourselves. We're a little over our head with this poison business, and I'd like to stop it quietly, before it's too late to stop... I mean, before it becomes a concern for my supervisors. If you aren't up to the task, I'd be glad to find other adventurers that can handle this. In the meantime, all of your questions will be answered if you go to this street corner by this time.... By the way, do you have a team name? Some way to collectively refer to you?"
---------------
When the team arrived at the Black Cathedral in mid-afternoon, the imposing skull shaped structure gleamed with black radiance as you approached. The rest of the temple was just as grand. Large windows showed a magestic view over the entire city. The interior was set pragmatically and without lavish waste, but still provided an aura of grandeur and significance. Orderlies and priests went about their business, preoccupied with their duties.
Leaving is a different experience. At sunset, the team exits to find a body lying on a gurney, just delivered, and about to be whisked off for a quick preparation and burial. A quartet in black stand on the steps, chanting an ongoing night prayer about life, death and judgement. The members in general begin to prepare for nightfall.
And as the team moves toward their destination, as night began to fall upon the city, the temple changed, glowing violet behind them.
------------------
At just a few blocks to their destination, with only a few minutes to spare, shouting cand be heard in a nearby alleyway. A few passers-by glance toward the commotion before continuing as before.
Perception 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You can track the noise to it's source.}
Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You can make out two voices, that of a large man and of a little girl.}
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 d20+3=22 ; Friday March 4th, 2022 10:08:29 PM
Rhys listens to the discussions between Beren, Alexander, Nintos and Fingers and the other members of the group. ”While I am prepared to undertake this venture in the company of these …these…brave souls, perhaps we can leave the naming to a later time when we have discovered more of who we are” the young elf speaks his mind.
As they leave the temple for the meeting with Clarisse, the purple hue of the building provides little in the way of comfort given the vivid reminder that death haunts the place.
Rhys follows Fingers along the narrow streets as they head to their rendezvous and is just about to ask exactly where they are headed when loud voices intrude upon the moment (Perception = 22). He tugs at Fingers sleeve and whispers ” A man and a child are shouting somewhere over there” he points in the direction the noise is coming from. ”They may be in trouble, I think we should investigate”.
If Fingers is in agreement Rhys will lead them to the altercation he has heard, quietly drawing his sword from the scabbard secured across his back. The long curved blade glints along its razor sharp edge in whatever small amount of light reaches it from above.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=16 ; Friday March 4th, 2022 10:28:01 PM
Kwarsk says, "Well, it seems we have the details we needed, for now. I'm new to Plateau City - anyone know where that street corner is? We should at least take a look around as the twilight fades... Anyone know if the Poisoner's Guild is most active at night or day?
Kwarsk then follows Fingers and Rhys, beckoning to the others to follow.
(Perception = 16) " Hear that?" Kwarsk says to Fingers, Rhys, and the others following. "Sounds like someone is in trouble - let's see if they need help!"
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20=17 ; Friday March 4th, 2022 10:28:34 PM It boggles the mind! thinks the cleric. Having arrived just that day, Paige and her three travelling companions don’t even have a place to stay for the night, and she knows next to nothing about the other four having exchanged few words since meeting around the job board in the Catacombs. She’s not even sure if she trusts the Minotaur! He seems to know an awful lot about the City, the worship of Gargul, and the Poisoners Guild for a seemingly young taur.
Maybe call us ‘The Temps’ since this is a temporary solution until we sort ourselves out? she says to Barem.
As Paige makes for the exit, she calls over her shoulder: Kwarsk! Collect that sheet of information from Mr. Barem, and then let’s get going.
Paige will follow at the back of the group and try to engage Fenfaran and [/b]Nintos[/b] in conversation. ”So you live here? In the City?”
Perception = 17 Paige hears a commotion in the alley. Great. Just great. she mutters, as she reaches over her shoulder for her mace.
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 2d20=16 ; d20+3=4 ; d20+8=12 ; Friday March 4th, 2022 10:33:05 PM
[ooc]When rolling, I want to make it known that my roll will always be first, then Merlettas. Disregard my first roll… I thought it was going to roll the 2 20s individually… sorry still learning the boards.[ooc]
Earlier Holding his hand out as if making some kind of deal, Nintos responds to Grothic; “May the best man win! I will be sure to memorize an extra Summon spell in the morning for us to have this little dance.”
At the Black Cathedral Hearing out Berem’s response and his call to aid, Nintos nods; “I somehow managed to get myself into this. Fenfaran, looks like I will be joining you on this adventure.” Thinking to himself Never thought I would be an adventurer…
As Paige approaches; “Live here? Oh, not exactly. I have been here for a few years. Studying at the library. Learning to properly say these incantations, being a teacher and tutor at the youth academy. You?”
At the Commotion Hearing shouts, Nintos moves himself behind the shields of the likes of Grothic. Looking to Merletta; “Go on, fly up to safety.” the black raven flies to the sky out of the reach of potential danger, but also keeping an eye out below.
Fingers (Shawn) AC 14, HP 13/13, CMD 15, F:+2 R:+4 W:+0 d20+5=13 ; Saturday March 5th, 2022 1:58:21 AM
Perception check: 13.
Fingers (Shawn) AC 14, HP 13/13, CMD 15, F:+2 R:+4 W:+0 Saturday March 5th, 2022 2:21:25 AM
(BTW: All will have seen that Fingers wears leather armor, has a crossbow across his back, a quiver on his left side and a sap on his right. All are Large-sized, and purchased while you were all at the Catacombs.)
If Fingers is in agreement...
Of course. He pulls a massive blackjack from a belt-loop. Let's go.
Rhys will lead them to the altercation he has heard....
Fingers pictures a ragged vagrant snatching candy from a little girl, only to run headlong into this armed war-party. THAT will sure scare him straight...
Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - CMD:13 - HP:11/11 - Spells d20+10=22 ; Saturday March 5th, 2022 9:02:39 AM
In the Temple (to Nintos): "Jobs fill your pockets, adventures fill your soul. Besides, if you were meant to stay in one place, you'd have roots ~ not feet"! He wanted to add 'Also, when we come back, we see the place we left with new eyes and extra colors” but shyness kicks in.
Outside (to Paige): "Live here? Oh no! I plan to die here! My life has been long and prosperous, I have traveled to many places and made lots of friends, so there cannot be much of it left"?! He shrugs acceptingly. "I figure this is a good place to face my death"! He says it all very calm and matter of fact.
(Perception:22) "Why does big man shout at little girl"?
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Saturday March 5th, 2022 9:11:30 AM earlier...
Kwarsk had taken two steps when he heard Paige, and, gathering himself, pivoted left, still grasping his tower shield, and with a knowing glance at Berem, grabbed the paper strongly, but without ripping it, then pivoted again and charged out the door after Fingers and Rhys, making up time lost...
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 d20+5=11 ; Saturday March 5th, 2022 2:38:31 PM
Grothic doesn't hear whatever commotion is bothering his companions, but gets the impression that a bully needs bullying. He leaves his weapons sheathed for now and runs out the door.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Monday March 7th, 2022 8:21:54 AM Flashback to Grothic introducing himself while we wait
Grothic is a muscular half-orc, with scars on the back of his neck and arms. If you see him without armor, the scars fill the entirety of his back. He has mentioned (probably a lot) that he grew up pushing an oar as a slave on an orc merchant vessel and that he has an adopted-ish human brother named Drellen whose whereabouts are currently unknown.
He and the orc he calls Grandfather escaped slavery together (after throwing Drellen onto a life raft full of humans). They were found my bounty hunters who thought they should go back to slavery. Grothic was the only survivor of that fight and wears the bloodied armor and weapons of his opponents. If asked about his sarcasm, he says that he learned it from Drellen and it often doesn't go over as well as he thought it would (hence the 8 in charisma).
Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - CMD:13 - HP:11/11 - Spells Monday March 7th, 2022 3:43:32 PM
Fen has his staff ready as he follows the crowd.
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 Monday March 7th, 2022 4:42:12 PM Earlier in the Temple Nintos let’s those words roll around his mind Besides, if you were meant to stay in one place, you’d have roots ~ not feet! “There is some wisdom in those word Fenfaran. I have seen my fair share of greyness in this wold, I would like to see it in extra colors.” Patting the young beastfolk on his shoulder.
At the Commotion Seeing that Merletta was able to fly up to safety, Nintos looks around Grothic to see what he had missed Why does big man shout at little girl? “That is a good question to ask…” Nintos reaches into his belt pouch feeling for the wax parchment wrapped sliver of butter as he keep a watchful eye out.
It is a unanimous decision that whatever the consequences of lateness or the dangers that await, the team should head to the screaming that is currently ongoing.
(Exceptions are made for those that can't quite make out what's going on. Those teammates vote to hunker down, but it sounds like they'd rather engage than avoid.)
"Let's go, you little thief," a gruff voice shoots through the darkness. The team slowly moves down the alley and eventually sees a large guard tightly holding a small elf girl, no more than 20. The elf girl, for her part, can be heard screaming though the city as she struggles to get free.
For a moment, it seems unclear which has the upper hand. The guard, easily twice the girl's size, has her trapped but seems unsure himself how or where to move her. "Just give up, and stop making this worse," he finally implores, exasperated.
The girl's continued screaming and kicking indicates otherwise.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Monday March 7th, 2022 9:02:18 PM
Rhys takes in the scene before him and immediately sheaths his sword. He feels for the guard who struggles to deal with the girl in his grasp without resorting to more severe means. ”I think the local guard has this well in hand”. The elf looks over at the ‘thief’ and implores her to cooperate with the guard. ” If you are innocent child, the truth will be known and you will be set free. If not, you will only worsen your situation by resisting. What do you say?”.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=11 ; Monday March 7th, 2022 9:11:34 PM
Kwarsk has to sprint to keep up with the tall folk, but does so, trusting to his hardy Dwarven guts.
On arriving, Kwarsk hesitates a tick, torn between assuming that either the guard must be brutally abusing his authority, or that the girl is in fact a thief.
Kwarsk's eyes shift to the Guard for a long moment, looking for some official indicia that the Guard works for Plateau City or some other famous organization. (Perception = 11) This is Kwarsk's first time in Plateau City, but he hopes to distinguish between an official guard and some hooligan abusing any semblance of authority.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Monday March 7th, 2022 9:30:41 PM ”Rhys! Let us know if you need any help” calls the half-elf as she halts, and returns to the mouth of the alley. “Kwarsk, what exactly did Administrator Barem write down on that note of his?”
Paige hadn’t heard any directions other than the group was to get further information from a person named ‘Clarisse’ that they were supposed to meet that night. She did not hear a time, nor learn of the rendezvous-vows point. It all seems rather clandestine.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Monday March 7th, 2022 9:41:22 PM
Move action: Grothic approaches the scuffle, drawing rope from the side of his backpack.
Standard action: Grothic attempts to tie a loop around the girl's waist. I imagine there would be an attack of opportunity, but she's grappled and unarmed so I'm not too worried about it.
Free action: Relax, lawman. It is my intent to help you but I really don't feel like chasing anyone. A half-orc? Chasing a pretty little elf? I'd be dead before you could say damsel in distress.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 4 d20=15 ; Monday March 7th, 2022 11:09:10 PM Myre's gut kicks into overdrive when she sees the big 'ol human manhandling the girl, but her companions have the right of it...maybe. She eyes the guard, seeing if she can figure out how official he looks.
Perception: 18 - Does this guard look like an actual guard? Is there a badge or something that identifies him? Does it look legit?
Fingers (Shawn) AC 14, HP 13/13, CMD 15, F:+2 R:+4 W:+0 d20+4=18 ; Tuesday March 8th, 2022 2:55:15 AM
Rhys and Grothic seem to be echoing Muuru's thoughts, so he holds back and says nothing. And yet, after a month or so in the city, he's heard stories of rogues who stage fights or other distractions for the benefit of their cut-purse partners.
This seems to be a real arrest in progress, but even so --. Yeah. Muuru scans the crowd to see if anyone is taking advantage of this "excitement".
Perception: d20+5 = 19 [correction to automated roll]
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 ; Tuesday March 8th, 2022 8:47:15 AM
[ooc]20 for an elf is very young. Is she really 20 in elven years or relative to a human? I’m moving forward with the idea that she is 20 in elven years.[ooc]
Seeing the young elven child, Nintos rounds the flesh wall of Grothic and begins walking towards this situation. This is not right… Nintos thinks to himself. As he approaches, Nintos tries to see if there is something in either of their hands that would mark this child as a thief Perception 18
“Stop! What is the meaning of laying hands on this little girl.” Seeing Grothic trying to tie her wrist up, Nintos puts a hand in the way to try and prevent it.
“What has this child done? You call her a thief, what has she actually stolen?
Nintos remembers a time when he way a young married man with an infant and the coin pouch was empty. The thought had crossed his mind to steal food many times. Thinking to himself Hunger and love for your family will drive you to do almost anything.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Tuesday March 8th, 2022 9:45:14 AM
Whispered to Nintos Highlight to display spoiler: { [b] We can ask all those questions after we convince the guard we're on his side. If he's doing the right thing, which is a high probability, then stopping him is a crime. If he's not, we can figure that out in a minute. The rope is still attached to my backpack. Please trust me before you get yourself arrested. If she is a thief, then we've made a friend with the guards. }
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 8th, 2022 5:07:47 PM
Hearing Grothic’s whisper, Nintos realizes that he is probably running on passion. My own little girl would have been 12 this year… He goes silent and withdraws a little bit.
Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - CMD:13 - HP:11/11 - Spells d20+10=11 ; Tuesday March 8th, 2022 5:20:05 PM
Fen watches and looks for clues. (Perception:11 ~ 'nat 1').
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 4 Tuesday March 8th, 2022 10:57:31 PM Myre worries that things are about to get heated. The guard probably is a guard and probably is stopping a crime, but she still feels the need to make sure a child's not in danger.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Tuesday March 8th, 2022 11:07:29 PM
Kwarsk replies to Paige, "Berem wrote 'information about our contact, Clarisse, and where to find her.' according to what Berem said. I didn't have time to read it before we ran here."
[OOC] The DM did not reference Kwarsk's earlier post about peeking around his tower shield to read what Berem was writing, or Kwarsk's later post where Kwarsk took the writing from Berem, so Wayne does not know what words are actually written there.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 d20+1=19 ; Tuesday March 8th, 2022 11:26:44 PM
Rhys grows confused by the situation that has unfolded. ”Perhaps not as straight forward as it initially appeared” he thinks and reserves both judgement and further action until either the guard or the girl responds. (Sense Motive = 19)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+6=11 ; Tuesday March 8th, 2022 11:27:23 PM
From her position at the mouth of the alley, Paige looks up and down the street and wonders what their contact ‘Clarisse’ looks like. (Perception = 11)
Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - CMD:13 - HP:11/11 - Spells Wednesday March 9th, 2022 4:06:24 AM
(OOC DM are we currently anywhere near the street corner we were supposed to be heading to?)
DM Melvin Wednesday March 9th, 2022 11:32:49 AM
The argument continues as to whether this girl is actually a pickpocket or not, along with a few side issues regarding mercy, class differences, lots of new curse words the group now learned. The girl is in rags, and clearly underfed (if healthy enough to hold off a grown man).
Rhys takes the guard's side, going so far as to order the girl (just so we're clear, we're talking 7 in human years) to stand down. Grothic goes so far as to grab the girl himself, and gets a kick in the face for his trouble (no damage). (I thought he was taking her side at first, grabbing her away from the guard.) Myre and Finger come on board.
Nintos, however, takes the girl's side, at least for a moment. Grothic whispers to Nintos something that gets him to calm down.
Kwarsk and Myre make an attempt to determine if the guard is legitimate. His perception is just enough to see what looks like a uniform and insignia, though he doesn't really know the area well enough to check legitimacy. (For what it's worth, Myre can see that the girl treats the guard as legitimate. She's resisting because he says he's a guard, not because he's lying about who he is.)
Fingers checks to see if this is a distraction or anything, but the area is quiet and he doesn't see anything.
Paige stays a bit behind, hoping to make their meeting, but doesn't know where they're going. Kwarsk tells her where to go.
(OOC: I'm not treating it as a big secret for only some of you. Rather than write out the location or who can see it, I just kept it vague. But for the record, it's a particular street corner a few blocks from both here and the skull market. Basically everyone is presumed to know it unless they say IC that they didn't look at the paper.)
With Grothic's help, the guard can finally take the little girl into a carrying position, and remove the necklace she pickpocketed. The girl, for her part, stops struggling, broken, in tears.
"Well, I do appreciate the help," the human guard replies. "Bersi, by the way. Well, off with her to processing... And a late night of paperwork. Fun. Well, maybe I'll see you around."
With that, he begins to head toward the police station.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Wednesday March 9th, 2022 12:12:18 PM
Rhys nods to Bersi and turns to head back out of the alley. ”We had better be on our way if we don’t want to be late for our appointment. We can check back on the waif afterwards”. The elf waits back at the street for Fingers or one of the others who know the city to take the lead.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Wednesday March 9th, 2022 12:46:53 PM "I will walk with you Bersi, if you don't mind. You can present me to your supervisor so I can get a well-earned pat on the back and I can assure my companions that you're not some kidnapper of stray children."
To the others "I can catch up to you soon. I promised Nintos that I would make sure this is legitimate. Once I see her safely in a cell, I will come find you, you're not a hard bunch to track. Besides, I donated some gold to an orphanage when I got here and it was really weird. I'd like to ask Bersi and his boss if they know why."
Guardsman Bersi, do guards not return stolen property in this city? Seems an extra hassle if you already know who it was stolen from. Grothic says as he catches up to he guardsman.
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+11=15 ; Wednesday March 9th, 2022 2:20:06 PM
Seeing the girl in rags and malnourished, Nintos’s heart breaks for the girl. “Can’t you see she is but a child and hungry? How much could that necklace be? Here, I’ll give you the coin for the necklace, and you can do with what you will with both the coins and necklace if you leave her in my care.” (Appraise 15 on necklace)
What are you doing… You were incapable of raising Alexander… Shaking his head free of that though; “I will see that she is fed and put on a proper track. Mercy is what she needs, not a T seared on the back of her hand, or her hand completely cut off for that matter.”
[OOC]I don’t know the local laws, I’m just running with historical/fiction punishments for thieves[OOC}
In Elven (Highlight to display spoiler if you speak elven) Highlight to display spoiler: { “Plead for mercy child. I wish to help you find a better life.”}
Nintos stands aside if the guard takes her in. Laws are laws for reasons, and every action has a balanced consequence.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 4 Wednesday March 9th, 2022 5:14:17 PM "Golly. This dude sure cares about urchins." Myre isn't so cold-hearted that seeing a crying child get dragged off doesn't hurt, and she knows that society is probably more to blame for her crime than she is, but rules is rules, yea? She's also pretty sure that what this Nintos fellah just did is technically bribery. Myre is no barrister, but she doesn't think thievery is forgiven when a nice stranger gives the guard a handful of coins.
She looks down at the rubber pig in her hands. Didn't she put him back in her pack? Yes...yes she did. She must have fished him out without realizing. "No, Waddles, I don't think he's trying to bribe the guard. I think he's just trying to get that girl out of trouble." ... "No, he probably doesn't know her. Some people just have a soft spot for kids." ... "No, it probably doesn't extend to pigs, and certainly not rubber ones." ... "Then I suppose you had better not try and steal anything. I certainly won't be buying your freedom." ... "She'd probably leave me in jail so I could learn not to steal...or to not get caught stealing. Not sure which..." She looks up at the rest of her new companions that aren't inserting themselves into this guard's day. "They'll catch up, right? Let's go talk to this Clarisse.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Wednesday March 9th, 2022 5:20:14 PM They would be in a better position to support a child or sponsor an orphanage if they had work and a steady income thinks the cleric. The middle aged man named Nintos seems to have employment and a home in the City, but at the rate he is spending his gold, the half-orc, Grothic will be living on the street! There must be dozens of lost or abandoned children living in the city…
”Those who wish to accompany Guardsman Bersi, declare yourselves.” she sighs, shaking her head. ”I’m for meeting this Clarisse. We can all meet up at the Black Cathedral in the morning.”
Paige hopes she will be able to find a place to rest and get some food after the meeting with Clarisse and learning more about the job they seem to have accepted.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Wednesday March 9th, 2022 7:03:43 PM
Rhys pulls two thin smoke-cured slivers of venison from his pack, offers one to Paige, and begins gnawing on the other. ”I hadn’t realized how hungry I am. It’s been a long day with nothing to eat since awakening”.
Fingers (Shawn) AC 14, HP 13/13, CMD 15, F:+2 R:+4 W:+0 Wednesday March 9th, 2022 8:23:31 PM "I know where that corner is; lets go. By the way, He lowers his voice. I get the sense this could be a...subtle affair. Let's separate into pairs so we don't look like a party marching over there. When see Clarisse, um...Myre," (who has the highest CHA) "You go and talk to her first. Let her decide if she wants to be seen with the lot of us crowding around her."
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Wednesday March 9th, 2022 8:42:26 PM
Kwarsk muses, and comes to the conclusion that those who head to meet Clarisse are likely to be in the most danger, comparing an elven girl to a Poisoner's Guild. The corner-squad may then have need of Kwarsk's legendary iron stomach!
Kwarsk replies to Paige, "I will join you, Fingers, and anyone else meeting Clarisse. My skills are not... subtle... in fact they're a bit noisy. I should probably pair with someone else who is noisy so the two of us can serve as a distraction enabling... subtle allies... to survey the situation. If Myre will handle the wordsmithing, then I wouldpair with her since Clarisse will see her coming anyways. Do you agree, Myre?"
DM Melvin Thursday March 10th, 2022 10:30:06 AM
Grothic decides instead to head with Bersi, to ensure that the crime is legitimate.
Nintos also heads along, asking if he can pay to release her. Myre worries that this can be seen as a bribe. Bersi seems to get what Nintos is offering, and seems even open to the idea. In the end, though, he chooses to take her in and process her. "Maybe I could release her into your jurisdiction, but that isn't really fair to you or this city. Besides, I can't just release her to one person. This isn't her first arrest and it won't be her last."
The police station, such as it is, remains as chaotic at night as the quarter's streets are during the day. Guards are shuttling in and out, moving arrested people into small cells and scribbling stuff on parchment. Bersi takes one of the small desks, speaking to himself as he scribbles. "Musetta... female elf, age old enough to know better...."
"Ooh, maybe you'll make captain," Musetta snarks to Bersi from a nearby chair. "Big arrest right here. Everyone look at the arrest that required three people."
Nintos makes sure that the little girl isn't tortured, much to Bersi's indignation and Musetta's humor. There's some argument about how bad Musetta has it in for or how civilized the place is, but it's pretty clear she isn't going to be tortured and that these guys are legitimate.
Grothic asks what Bersi will do with the necklace. Musetta suggests that it brings out the color in Bersi's eyes. Bersi remarks that it's evidence but will eventually be returned when they track down who she stole it from.
Musetta finally starts eyeing Grothic and Nintos carefully. "Speaking of shady dealings, I couldn't help but notice the two of you were walking around for no reason. In a large and rather diverse group. With lots of armor and weapons. At night."
Bersi warns Musetta not to talk, but you can tell he starts eyeing you two as well.
"I initially figured you were part of the circus freak show, but that's next week," Musetta remarked.
Grothic asks about the orphanage, and notices by this point that there are a number of children arrested. Bersi waits until Musetta is out of range before answering. "Well, I can't speak on the record except it's kind of new. They call it the Puccini Coffee Shop because they took over an aging tavern, and... Well, you met one of its residents already. Brats, all of them, all getting into trouble and hijinks."
And then Bersi began to soften. "But between you and me, that Orphanage Head, Walid, the rumors you could hear from him or about him. Frankly, part of me thinks they're better off in prison."
--------------
Rhys is ready to head on their way, giving the group dinner as they head over. Myre joins her. Paige joins them but can't stop thinking of the little girl. (Maybe if they were in better shape to take a girl in....)
Fingers joins them. Under his strategy, the group splits up into pairs, with Myre tasked to make the first connections. Kwarsk agrees to act as a sort of distraction.
Fenfaran remains silent, going with the default (so we have three pairs).
Eventually, they meet Clarisse, a blond human figure in cleric's robes and a hood. After stalking the area, she finally moves to shake Myre's hand.
"I was going to chew you out for being late, but at least you had the training to evaluate the situation. I was afraid that Berem was just going to throw a flyer up on the catacombs and grab eight people at random.
"Anyway, we don't have much time before the transaction goes down. The Poisoner's guild is already on the move and if this gets out into the greater use... Lord, I hope we aren't too late to stop it. So are you familiar with Mailed Fist maneuvers or should we just move in to Black Cathedral option 3?"
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 4 Thursday March 10th, 2022 11:46:43 AM "I'm supposed to do the talking? Oh bother..." Myre smiles big, though. "Sure thing! Happy to do my part!"
Then, she meets Clarisse and realizes she may be in over her head. Maybe her new companions know what a "Mailed Fist maneuver" is, or what "Black Cathedral option 3" means? She scans them, looking for signs they know what the heck this woman is talking about. If anyone does, she lets them take over talking. She considers lying; she's good at stretching the truth into uncomfortable shapes, but doing so right now may well get someone hurt. Sometimes honesty is the best policy, she supposes.
"Ma'am, it looks like I'm going to have to confirm Berem's failure to provide properly briefed applicants for this job. We're quick learners, though!" Well, she hopes the rest of her companions are. She also realizes that they're down two people because the men felt the need to protect a little elf girl. Typical*. She looks up at Clarisse, waiting to see how the woman responds. It would be a shame to get fired before they even got started.
*OOC: I mean no offense to anyone by this statement!
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Thursday March 10th, 2022 12:55:08 PM I beg your pardon, but how do you know she stole the necklace? Since you don't know who it belonged to, you obviously didn't see her take it. That would also mean that no one has reported it stolen. Surely those sworn to uphold the law can't just kidnap people for wearing jewelry. I would be correct in assuming you had more incriminating evidence, right?
Grothic faces Musetta. The more you talk, the more you remind me that you kicked me in the face. I would suggest silence.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 d20+5=15 ; Thursday March 10th, 2022 1:55:33 PM
Intimidate check for Musetta (15).
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Thursday March 10th, 2022 5:09:05 PM ”Alas your presumption about our hiring is quite accurate. A random group of individuals recruited through a rather vague poster is a very accurate description of the situation. I for one have no idea what the Mailed Fist is, let alone what the maneuvers are, and no one from the Cathedral has explained option 3 or options 1 and 2 for that matter. Nor do we know what the Poisoners Guild is up to. Berem has told us to report to you for clarification and direction”. The words spill out of Rhys in a torrent, partly in exasperation at being left in the dark, and partly in apprehension that they will be found unsuitable for the task at hand.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20=6 ; Thursday March 10th, 2022 7:50:06 PM
Calm washes over the cleric as she chews on the bit of venison jerky provided by her elvish friend. She mentally chastises herself for not listening to her body, and providing for herself from her meagre store of travelling rations. She realizes she didn’t even have a chance to try the strange hot beverage served at the office inside the Black Cathedral. The half-elf takes a swig from her water skin.
Paige listens as Myre responds to the blonde woman’s questions. She ponders over the rotund porcine creature she had seen previously with the small sorcerer and wonders if it is some sort of comfort animal. Paige’s healer father had explained how some folks with psychiatric disabilities found the companionship of animals contributed to their well being. Paige plans to speak with the dark magicker about it…when time allows.
Whilst Rhys elaborates on the party’s provenance, Paige studies the human woman in cleric’s robes to see if they match what she saw on the folks back at the Black Cathedral or that of some other religious sect.(Knowledge Religion = 6)
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 Thursday March 10th, 2022 8:39:14 PM
Seeing that the girl is being taken in he feels sorry for the girl and the life she was born into. We can live into what we were born into, or we can pull ourselves out of the muck Nintos thinks to himself.
Seeing the group split, Nintos decides to follow the girl to make sure she is taken care of when she is turned in.
Hearing the girl smart off to the guard and to those of us who went with her he shakes his head.
In elven Highlight to display spoiler: { “You might outlive us humans, but you are not living up to the potential that you could be. I hope you find your path.”}
Nintos then heads outside of the station; “I will wait for you outside.”
Outside, Nintos sits and plays with Merletta, tossing her crumbs of bread from their earlier meal. “I know… not everyone can be saved.”
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=5 ; Thursday March 10th, 2022 10:04:04 PM
Kwarsk wonders what he's gotten himself into. During his own training, Kwarsk had plenty of time to speak with Dwarven soldiers in the Scab, and Clarisse sounds like she's leading a special forces assault or something. Kwarsk sighs with relief that Myre and Rhys have enlightened her, and then tries to keep an eye on Clarisse and his ears open for unusual sounds, such as someone screaming after being poisoned...
[OOC] Perception, result 5.
DM Melvin Friday March 11th, 2022 10:47:12 AM
(OOC: Ok, I'm going to break the fourth wall for a moment to save some time. The little girl did do it, and the guard is just a beleagured guard legitimately doing his job. You are allowed to intervene if you feel pity for her, or leave because she did the crime. We figured you could choose either track. But I can't cover every avenue of maybe she's innocent, so I might need some handwaving.)
Grothic warns Musetta to be quiet, and gets a raspberry for his trouble.
Grothic starts asking a bunch of questions about the process, and Bersi begins to show signs of fatigue. But since he asked nicely, he starts to talk about how she stole the necklace from a patron of a nearby bar called The Crypt. ("The real thieves of this city," Musetta interjects.) There's some twists and turns but he pretty clearly has the right elf girl.
Nintos tells the guard that he wants to wait for her and to make sure she gets home. Bersi again has to clarify that she's going to be in jail, at least for a few days. And it sounds like that's going to be the end of the matter.
Musetta for her part mouths off at both Bersi and Nintos' cajoling to live up to her potential, and it's easy to forget that she's a little girl.
And then she's placed in a cell with other people, small, trying hard not to show fear. And it's easy to forget that she's anything but a little girl.
------------------------------
The rest of the gang quickly explains that they are somewhat in the dark, and it takes a moment for Clarisse to realize that she wasn't kidding.
(Paige tries an untrained religion check to see if she can recognize the symbols, but she can't. Figuring she's a cleric of Gargul is not a bad guess.)
Clarisse takes a long time to collect herself. "The Poisoner's guild is what we're calling a local group that's been producing drow sleep poison... and we're pretty sure that they have a direct source. People have been found by guards in a state of induced sleep and robbed of all useful possessions. We're going to call that the not so bad part."
She took out what looked like some rolled tobacco. "Picked a heck of a time to quit smoking. Anyone got a light? Anyway, the other part? They've been hitting herbalist shops, magic shops, glass factories. We think they're working on new, more potent variants. Rumor says they've figured out a poison that can put elves to sleep, though we can't confirm. It's the nearby Scar, it's making the whole area crazy.
"Getting back, the locals have a significant concern, but the guards don't have jurisdiction, so it got handed to the Church, who handed it to our lovely underfunded outfit so they can claim they did something. And now, we're outsourcing it to you. There's a nighttime market festival in the Skull Market tonight, and someone there might know something, but they'll be wrapping up soon so you need to go now.
"One other thing, we do have a lead at a local wizard school, that one of the mages might know something. I'm going to hand you the information now, but I leave it up to you whether you want to split up or deal with it afterwards.
"Are there any questions?"
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Friday March 11th, 2022 3:12:29 PM
Paige listens to Clarisse and attempts to catalogue the facts. Folks are being drugged, robbed, and worse? Legitimate merchants are being vandalized for ingredients and such. The activity seems to be coming from or focused in the area of town called The Scar.
The blonde woman has given the party two leads, but Paige figures Nintos would be an asset if the group is going to visit this mage at the local wizard school, so probably best to wait for him and Grothic to show up. Besides, it’s getting late in the day….might as well reconnaissance the Skull Market before turning in for the night, and visit the mage tomorrow.
Paige asks Clarisse if she has the names of any citizens working the market festival who might have been victims of the guild’s activities, and then readies herself for a night-time adventure. She waits for Clarisse to answer her question, and any the other party members might ask, before asking the group: to the market?
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Friday March 11th, 2022 3:23:42 PM ”Questions”? Rhys thinks to himself, ”I have nothing but questions”!. The elf pauses for a moment, still somewhat abashed by his last uncharacteristic outburst. ” I have several questions. Assuming we find something of importance, who are we to report to? At what liberty are we to intervene should the opportunity arise? Is this strictly fact finding, or are there expectations that we will mete out justice as we see fit? And if you please, what are these Mailed Fist maneuvers you would have us know, and what of ‘Option 3’?”
The dark-cloaked elf waits calmly for answers from Clarisse.
Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - CMD:13 - HP:11/11 - Spells Friday March 11th, 2022 4:59:42 PM
With a furrowed brow and crossed arms Fen asks: "Who exactly is your underfunded outfit"?
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Friday March 11th, 2022 10:14:17 PM
Grothic speaks to Musetta through the bars and then to the guard.
Highlight to display spoiler: { "Let's talk like we're two orphans that want to be honest with each other. I know you have a bright future with your career of petty street thievery and it's getting you into all the up and coming jail cells. Your other option is to work for me. The hours are terrible, it's pretty much twenty four seven. Pay is crap, too. Five silver a week, but I'll cover food, clothes and lodging no worse than mine.
Here's the actual sales pitch: you apprentice to an adventurer. Learn how to make money without being the cancer to society you are now. First, you have to tell the guard who he can give the necklace back to and maybe he will put off charging you with it. If you give the wrong name, he comes and finds you and throws you in jail. If you run off, I tell him and he finds you and throws you in jail. If I introduce you to my companions and so much as a shoelace goes missing, I tell him and he arrests you for the necklace. I can't tell if you noticed, but you'd be on a pretty short leash until the statute of limitations runs out. I will give you a minute to think it over."
He tells the guard the same thing. If asked, it's because someone took Grothic under his wing, and it made a difference.
}
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 4 Friday March 11th, 2022 10:18:02 PM Myre snaps her fingers, and a small lick of flame pours from her index finger long enough to light Clarisse's smoke (prestidigitation). Far be it from her to deny a woman her simple pleasures.
She does feel a quick twinge of worry at the mention of drow sleeping poison. Myre's dark-elven family was the above ground type, but some people don't appreciate nuance getting in the way of their bigotry. She assumes Clarisse is metropolitan enough know the difference, or at least not stereotype her. She nods along, listening to Clarisse's explanation.
"What, specifically, is our aim here? Bring in the ringleaders...or their heads, maybe? Dismantle the operation and destroy their supplies and research? Scout and report back? All of the above? Something else?"
"Wardd above, Myre. Stop talking and let the woman answer." Her face fails to reveal her self-admonitions.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Friday March 11th, 2022 11:08:50 PM
Kwarsk ponders for a long moment while others ask their questions of Clarisse, mentally checking off questions he had but which others have already asked.
Kwarsk takes a breath, and says, "Clarisse, when you said 'hitting herbalist shops, magic shops, glass factories' and so on, does 'hitting' mean 'stealing from', 'vandalizing,' or 'buying large amounts of poison supplies' ?"
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 March 11th, 2022 11:28:29 PM
Nintos waits outside patiently as the rest of the party still deals with the guard and the elven girl.
[OOC]This feels like a phoning it in, but he is waiting for the rest of them to finish up and I don’t want to penalize us by not making a post. [OOC]
Fingers (Shawn) AC 14, HP 13/13, CMD 15, F:+2 R:+4 W:+0 Saturday March 12th, 2022 4:43:46 PM
Muuru thinks. A potion that can sleep elves?. From what he's learned about potions, this could involve some exotic ingredients or equipment -- stuff you can't get from herbalist shops or glassware vendors. Let me think...
Craft (Alchemy), take10+6 = 16
Whether or not something comes to mind, he might know someone who knows even more. Whenever he makes a poison trap -- like the reliquary he made for Captain Chorma* -- the client has to get the poison from somewhere else. Certainly, the most renowned potion maker -- especially of sleep potions -- in the Skull Market would spare a moment for a friendly chat with a trapsmith, who is basically a colleague.
Now, who is the most renowned potion maker in the Skull Market?
Knowledge (local): Take10+5 = 15
*[OOC: Captain Chorma is the NPC paladin I made up for Fingers' introductory post, which also mentioned that she was planning to use a sleeping potion. If these skill checks fail, I may try to track her down and ask who her potion supplier is -- assuming the DM allows her to exist!]
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Sunday March 13th, 2022 12:39:48 PM
(OOC) the posting report below shows very few posts for Friday but if you look at the posts, they actuall6 occurred on Friday. Something isn’t right with the posting report.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Sunday March 13th, 2022 4:07:00 PM
(OOC) I agree with Bob. My tally should be: 5th: 2 8th: 1 9th: 1 12th: 1 (or 2, if you count private posts) Maybe the chart is thinking in UTC or something, so our tallies appear a day earlier than they should?
DM Melvin d20-1=5 ; Monday March 14th, 2022 10:41:56 AM
Between Grothic's own "child of the street" history and Nithos' own kids issues, they aren't just going to leave.
Grothic can see Musetta struggle to form a response. He doesn't need much to see that she's scared and distrustful, or full of ego. But she's also rather stuck in terms of options.
She does, however, make one last plea to be returned to "her family," which you slowly realize means back to the orphanage.
Dealing with the guard proves far less effective. Grothic doesn't have a great amount of diplomacy and Nintos is outside waiting. (I rolled for Grothic's diplomacy but not well.) But, Grothic does have some good ideas of how to structure this, and Bersi isn't without compassion for the situation.
"Ok, I'll tell you what I'll do so that I can go home sometime this year. You'll need to figure out some way for me to track you down, I'll be popping in fairly frequently to make sure this is legitimate, and I'll need to see this lodging and the work you have in mind. You'll eventually have to clear it with Walid yourself, and you should assume the guards will be watching you in all this."
Musetta watches as Bersi opens the door to her cell, then begins to straighten her clothes and open her mouth.
"Oh, one more condition. If either of you says a single word before you leave, I'm getting out the chains."
(OOC: It's up to you if you want to rush to the meeting place now, or if you want to do something else in the city.)
-----------------
As Clarisse gives her talk, the rest of the group begins to absorb just how big a deal this mission is. A consensus seems to form that the remaining members will hit the skull market first, then the magic school.
Paige asks if she can talk to any of the market people about the robberies. Clarisse doesn't have anyone specific, but herbalists seem to be your likeliest bet.
Rhys begins to... lets call it having concerns, particularly about the chain of command and particular maneuvers. Clarisse, who has calmed down, finally accepts that this is going to be a little more informal than she'd like. SHe finally answers him, "You will continue to report to myself or Berem, you'll stop crimes as you see them, we or the guards will handle arrests for any... survivors. Oh, and we are the good guys, so no killing people who surrender or are incapacitated, no torturing people, you know the drill. We're the light side of death, and all."
(OOC: We don't punish people for bad acts so you don't have to worry about stuff like a bad guy getting away or coming back if they surrender.)
Fenfaran asks who they are. "Are you kidding? I just told you. We're the Local Administrative Office of the Black Cathedral under the Church of Gargul. I mean, I know that the church is more about appearance than fact in these matters and Berem thinks he's above us, but still, we're as legit as you're going to find."
Clarisse doesn't notice Myre's twitch, being absorbed in ther own thoughts. She seems rather taken aback by all the pushing. "I'd like to go as far up the chain as we can, figure out as much as we can, dismantle what we can."
Kwarsk asks for clarifying the term "hitting." "Why, I mean theft of course, what a knock kneed how do you do is that?"
(OOC: Please don't ask me what those terms mean. I have no idea.)
Fingers tries to imagine what would allow this. His knowledge rolls are good enough to recognize that we're more in the land of speculative fiction at this point. As in, what even does a sleeping elf look like. He wants to go higher to the source, which can be tough. But Clarisse has some options that she might pull together. (OOC: if the trail goes cold, I'll answer the question then.)
As activity begins to sound ahead, the group makes its way to the Skull Market.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+6=25 ; Monday March 14th, 2022 12:09:31 PM The parameters of the job seem kind of vague thinks the half elf to herself, as she makes her way towards the market. Walking beside the beast-boy, she teases Fenfaran: ”Let me know if you get a premonition like before. You know, with the fur on your arms?!”. She volunteers: ”sometimes the god Domi helps me see things more clearly, you know, like good and evil. Is it like that for you? Can you sense certain things? Things other folks don’t quite see?”
Paige looks about the market, attempting to spot a herbalist who might be approachable. (Perception = 25). She wonders how Nintos and Grothic are managing and wonders if they are still interested in the job? She wonders if the small elf thief and her robberies are somehow tied up with the Poisoners Guild?
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Monday March 14th, 2022 12:25:04 PM
Rhys listens carefully as Clarisse elaborates the parameters of the job and who to report to. He nods in tacit understanding with each point. ”When we get to the market I will hang back a bit and keep watch for anyone skulking about or taking any untoward interest in those of us asking questions of the merchants” the elf explains as they make their way back towards the cathedral and the market place nearby. He pulls the deep hood of his cloak up over his head, checks that his weapons are ready and slowly distances himself from the procession until he is some 30 feet behind.
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 Monday March 14th, 2022 4:07:38 PM
[OOC]I feel like I need to clarify. As soon as Ninto's offer to pay for the stolen item was refused and the girl was being taken in he was okay to move on. March 9th Nintos stands aside if the guard takes her in. Laws are laws for reasons, and every action has a balanced consequence. He probably would have went with the other group but was written into the story to follow the guard and Grothic, which is fine. He is just waiting outside not to bail on his companion/s who is/are inside. He has his own issues due to his past, but also knows he now has a duty that he can make a real impact.[OOC]
Finishing up feeding Merletta the crumbs of bread heel he had remaining. He works with the spell Prestidigitation to create floating targets that Merletta flies through and even attacks causing them to break. Smiling at her growing ability, Nintos thinks to himself I have heard of a familiar delivering spells, her agility and grace would make her a candidate to do so. I will need to spend some time in the library to study how that form of our connection could work.
Looking around, not knowing where the other group went to. Ninto's thinks But that could be a ways off at this point.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Monday March 14th, 2022 6:16:50 PM
Grothic exits the guardhouse with Musetta. Musetta, meet Nintos. Nintos, Musetta. I hired her as a guide through the city. If this adventuring thing doesn't work out, she can show us the best people to steal jewelry from. Time to go?
Assuming I haven't wasted enough time already, Grothic heads to the rest of the team to introduce them to their new guide.
Rule number 1, if a fight breaks out, hide. Rule number 2, if it looks like you could steal it, don't. Rule number 3, don't wander off.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Monday March 14th, 2022 9:07:06 PM
Kwarsk bows slightly, " Thank you Clarisse for clarifying. I'm sorry for not making a proper introduction, but I tend to seek understanding before small talk...."
Standing straight again, Kwarsk nods at Clarisse and catches up with the rest of the group.
Kwarsk is not the happiest dwarf when glad-handing a whole string of strangers, and plans to be no more than 10 feet away from those, like Paige, who appear to be heading for just such glad-handing a string of strangers to pump them for information - Kwarsk won't just be on guard duty, but will also be pretending to sightsee the various vendor carts etc, hoping to draw the attention of those who might otherwise notice Paige's conversations (and the conversations of any other party member nearby and glad-handing).
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 4 Tuesday March 15th, 2022 12:35:13 AM
Myre can almost sympathize with this woman. She asked for professionals who knew her way of handling business and got us. Still, we all volunteered to help out a good cause. A little more tact would have been nice. Clarisse's answer isn't clear, but she gets the message anyway: figure it out, just don't grab the first minion you see and call it a day. With some horror, Myre realizes she might have to do some talking again. She relaxes a bit when she remembers it's ok to lie to the people you're trying to entrap.
Is it entrapment? She'd heard a few arguments about the subject. Something about it not being entrapment if law enforcement pushes you to do something you wouldn't have done otherwise. "I wonder if that will be an issue," she thinks to herself.
She realizes her hand is moving, so she looks down to discover Waddles back in her arms as she lightly strokes his head. She makes an exasperated sound and rolls her eyes before stuffing the rubber pig back in her sack. It looks like a motion she's made many times before.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Tuesday March 15th, 2022 3:26:10 AM When we get to the market, says Muuru, I'm going to talk to an alchemist. He might be able to tell if the Poisoners would be looking for special ingredients or equipment.
I guess the rest of you plan to ask the herbalists if they caught sight of their thieves, or anyone "casing" their stands? Be sure to ask if anyone has come to them asking about materials that are especially unusual or exotic.
DM Melvin Tuesday March 15th, 2022 2:49:53 PM
Under the "watchful eyes" of the purple Black Cathedral, the Skull Market fills the plaza below, extending east towards the black gate. Booths line up along the pathways as if set up by drunken sailors. Vendors of all races for all strange trinkets, even more strange than the catacombs.
Some of the group takes a look through the various items, a mix of the "daytime touristy" and the rather bizzarre. Stuffed monsters (cotton and taxidermy), tokens to prevent or cause this and that, which type pretend curses and some real ones, macabre art of all types, potions (real and pretend) for all types of dark things. Masks from the floating city, jewelry and trinkets from the Drow, cursed items you should absolutely buy and bring to your house.
And of course, cookbooks and cookware. You realize it and halfling scarves are the big item tonight.
Paige and Fingers find their way towards a herbalist. While nobody seems pure, you find an excitable gnome that sells a number of herbs and potions along with a number of single magic trinkets. Before you ask him any questions, he begins to push the love potion spiel.
Rhys, and Kwarsk hang back, looking for anyone who is skulking around or any trouble (you both need to give me a perception check then, as does anyone else who wants to look for similar).
Myre wonders if he can lie to suspects. (Yes, in part because you aren't cops.)
---------
(OOC: If I place people into the wrong group or otherwise move/interpret the action/belief wrong, you can email me at that point or correct it in the next post. I was ready to move everyone to Clarisse and must have misread Nintos' post. But I won't force you into a position you don't want to do, and you should feel free to state your PCs intentions.)
Grothic comes out with Musetta, who introduces herself again to Nintos. "Well, well, ok, guess I can do that... Not really sure where to even take you, since I don't know who you are and what you want and that's fine."
She's silent until Grothic finishes the rules. "So... if it doesn't look like I can steal it, that's allowed? I only ask because it's a thing now. Know a lot of guys stealing plants, pretty childish if you ask me, was that something you had in mind?"
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Tuesday March 15th, 2022 3:36:46 PM
Grothic laughs. That sounds like a thief's version of the chicken and egg paradox. Can you make a decision to steal something if the part of you that makes decisions decides that it doesn't look stealable? What kind of plants are getting stolen? Are they selling plants or are they starting some weird nature cult?
Let's get you to the rest of the group. We're working a job and I'm sure there's some information in your head that can help.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+1=8 ; d20+8=27 ; Tuesday March 15th, 2022 4:32:59 PM
Paige approaches the excitable gnome herbalist, and blushing to the roots of her hair brushes aside the potion he is shilling. ”Actually, I’m looking to add a few things to my kit” she volunteers, speaking in a normal voice and eyeing the interesting components on display. ”I’ve got a knack for looking after folks, if you know what I mean - and I’ve been studying the healing arts.” Lowering her voice, and looking meaningfully at the gnome, she solemnly enquires: ”do you know where I might get a potion or something that would make a person fall into a deep sleep? (Diplomacy = 8) she hastily adds, you know, like if I had to sew up a deep gash, or amputate a limb! Wouldn’t want the fellow to be conscious during the procedure… The half elf cleric keeps her eyes trained on the vendor of herbs, studying his appearance and awaiting his response (Sense Motive* = 27)
If Perception is more appropriate the roll would be with +6, so = 25)
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 d20+3=13 ; Tuesday March 15th, 2022 5:17:37 PM
Rhys stays at the periphery of the action, keeping a careful eye on the rest of the party. (perception=13). Trying to remain inconspicuous, if he crosses paths with a vendor offering cooking herbs and spices he will inquire about ingredients to rub on meats to enhance their flavour; the bland flavour of the smoked venison fro earlier in the day is still on his tongue.
Fenfaren d20+10=24 ; Tuesday March 15th, 2022 5:47:08 PM
Fanfaren wanders through the stalls keeping his companions in sight but always scanning the surrounding area for things of a nefarious nature.(Perception =24). His concentration on the task at hand is occasionally broken by his innate interest in the odd trinkets and goods being offered for sale, but for the most part he remains vigilant.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=18 ; Tuesday March 15th, 2022 10:27:53 PM
Kwarsk, looking around for trouble, perhaps finds some? (Perception = 18)
Kwarsk continues pretending to "window shop" while keeping alert. Kwarsk is meticulously focused, but if he happens across a vendor selling cow milk ("white gold" !), he might forget his task and buy a cup...
Raising an eyebrow at Grothic’s hired her as a guide“Welcome aboard! I have a feeling you know the ins and outs of this city…” Nintos holds a hand out allowing Musetta to take the lead. “If a fight breaks out, stand by me. I won’t be going into the fray of things but I am capable with the arcane that I can help keep us both alive.”
[OOC]I cannot recall or find where we were heading before the split.[OOC]
Intelligence Roll = 24: “Oh we were heading to [insert location], but I have a feeling there was a bit of a time crunch. We should hurry.”
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Tuesday March 15th, 2022 11:54:44 PM
Muuru pretends to be looking over the baskets of herbs while doing his best to overhear the exchange between Paige and the gnomish fellow. He tries to remember how far the alchemist's shop is. If it's not far, and the conversation with the herbalist doesn't get interesting in the next minute or so, he's going to wander over to the alchemist.
DM Melvin Wednesday March 16th, 2022 10:50:22 AM
Grothic continues to push towards heading... I'm assuming towards the original meeting space. Musetta looks at him carefully at the phrase "working a job," and it's pretty clear she has no idea what she signed up for. "We're not murdering a bunch of people and taking over the planet or something, right? Because I only signed up to be a small time thug."
At Nintos' suggestion of the need to hurry, Musetta asks where exactly they want to go.
In response to Grothic's question, "Oh, I'm pretty sure it's the second. You know I've met losers who claim to belong to some 'Poisoner's Guild' with a straight face. Ok, buddy, taking you so seriously."
--------
Paige and Fingers try to pry for some poison, seeing if he's involved. She can tell from sense motive that the gnome barely understands English. Also, the bottles he shows in return maybe are sleeping potions. You may have to roll the dice on it.
Pretty much everyone makes a valid perception check (no spoilers) and sees a male human in the crowd. He stands out because of his dark armor and shifty demeanor. In particular, he seems to be eyeing the items in your gnome's booth as he stands next to Paige. From there, he moves to another booth, watching the items carefully.
Fenfaren (BobW for Iain) d20+6=10 ; d20+8=23 ; Wednesday March 16th, 2022 11:16:06 AM
Fenfaren scans the tables of goods displayed at various stalls, looking at herbs, fungi, and even types of bark to see if any are known to him as having sleep inducing properties (Knowledge Nature = 10). He notices the darkly clad human in the crowd and as surreptitiously as possible nods towards him, trying to draw Rhys and Kwarsk’s attention towards the human. Fenfaren will try to slip into the crowd and find a location from where he can better observe his subject (Stealth=23).
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 d20+3=5 ; Wednesday March 16th, 2022 11:29:28 AM
Rhys continues to feign interest in the wares offered at various stalls when his attention is drawn towards the shifty human in the crowd. He watches as Fen drifts further into the crowd and slightly behind the same human. The elf maintains his current position and checks to see if Kwarsk has also noticed Fenfaren’s signal and crafty repositioning. He looks to see if the suspicious character bears any insignia that might suggest affiliation with any group, but it is hard to get a good look through the milling crowd without drawing any unnecessary attention to himself (Perception=5).
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 4 d20+5=24 ; d20+8=17 ; Wednesday March 16th, 2022 12:09:16 PM
OOC: Bah, thought I had a few more hours to sneak a post in. Sorry for missing again. Still trying to work this into my routine.
***
Ah, the shifty human in dark armor. Myre loves a good trope. She ponders how best to handle the situation. She eyes the herbs, trying to see if many she knows what they are & what they're used for (know, nature: 24).
"Maybe", she thinks to herself, "provocation is the way to go." Myre moves to stand next to Paige, but between the herbs and this shifty guy (assuming that's possible). She then stares him down, sending a clear non-verbal message that these are she'll be the one acquiring these herbs (or at least stopping him from said acquisition).
Intimidate: 17
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+1=4 ; d20=4 ; Wednesday March 16th, 2022 12:10:24 PM
Paige had addressed the vendor in Common, but he seemed to have trouble understanding. She looks at the bottles he shows her to see if they are labelled, and what the labels might say. You make these yourself?(/b] she asks slowly and articulating each word carefully, [b] or get them from someone?. (Diplomacy = 4). When the shifty stranger in dark armour visits the gnome’s booth and stands next to Paige, the cleric gives the human the once over, then returns to studying the bottles (Appraise = 4) when the stranger moves on.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Wednesday March 16th, 2022 3:59:38 PM
[Ooc] If I haven't mentioned, we're walking and talking with the intent to meet up with the group. Their last known whereabouts to Grothic before the split was the Market.
Need to know basis, I'm afraid, but I will re-negotiate terms if world domination comes up. Tell me about the Poisoner's Guild. They probably throw some really fun parties.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=15 ; Wednesday March 16th, 2022 9:54:09 PM
Kwarsk notices Fenfaran's signal (Perception = 15) and stays about two vendor carts behind the shifty human, shadowing him while pretending to window shop.
(OOC) do I need a skill roll for what I'm doing? Not trying to be quiet/stealthy, just trying to blend in. (/OOC)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Wednesday March 16th, 2022 11:57:15 PM
Muuru notices not only the armored human, but how all his friends have noticed him too. He wonders why this guy hasn't realized this. Just be ready in case something happens, I guess.
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=12 ; d20+8=26 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 8:28:21 AM
[ooc]Sorry about missing last night. My boy wasn’t feeling the greatest and I fell asleep laying with him in bed.[/ooc]
The market! That’s right Nintos thinks as they walk along.
A small time thung? Nintos whistles to bring in Merletta to fly close by “Musetta, tell me about your parents?”
Nintos whispers to Merletta “We’re looking for out new friends.” Nintos sents her up to help look.
DM Melvin d6=1 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 11:03:36 AM
As soon as the man in the studded leather begins acting suspicious, the group springs into action.
Fenfaren manages to spot him stealthily, while Rhys and Kwarsk and Fingers hold back (no roll needed, just don't get too close).
Paige, meanwhile, continues to ask this herbalist some questions.
And then, Myre decides to make her move. Swiftly, she moves next to him at the booth and gives him a very clear non-verbal stare message.
And she can see in his eyes just how intimidated he is, for better or for worse.
With a smooth motion, the mark grabs a bunch of items, pulls the booth towards them both (Myre - reflex DC 15 to fully avoid, 1 non-lethal damage otherwise) and runs into the crowd. Vendors start screaming, tourists dive in various places, and intricate scarves and trinkets fly into the air.
"Buy now," the gnome screams at Paige. "You buy now."
(Everyone needs to make survival checks to follow. Next round will be chase and/or combat, and I'll post the map then.)
--------------
Grothic and Ninthos continue to make their way towards the market but it takes some time walking there.
Musetta responds to questions about her family as "need to know" and that raspberry. She stares at Grothic carefully as he asks follow up questions. "I don't really know much about them. If they do throw parties, they don't invite us orphans, but when other thieves... excuse me, royal other thieves... show up, we at least get a bit weary. But as for motives or what they're using these plants for... Should we be taking these guys more seriously?"
(OOC: there is some information she can provide, if needed. But I'll wait for the group to reconvene and the matter to be resolved.)
Merletta scouts ahead, and her perception is high enough to hear the clatter from the skull market.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 d20+5=21 ; d20+3=8 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 11:39:05 AM
[/]”YOU THERE! THEIF! STOP THEIF!!”[/b] Rhys calls out and immediately dashes after the human in the dark armour. The elf does his best to slip between other bewildered patrons of the market and maintains chase. (Survival=21, Acrobatics to slip through the crowd = 8). ”STOP HIM FEN!! “, he yells out to Fenfaren.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20=6 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 11:52:57 AM
Survival: 6, plus any possible bonus for being tall enough to see over the crowd.
Fenfen(Bob for Iain) AC 18, CMD 13, HP 11/11 d20+3=4 ; d20+3=8 ; d20+8=15 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 11:54:31 AM ”At last. My opportunity for an honourable death may be at hand.” Fenfaren thinks to himself and swings into action from his position behind the man. Twice he strikes with his staff hoping to interfere with the thief’s getaway but likely to no avail (Hit AC = 4 and 8). Despite his poor attempts with the staff he gives chase in pursuit of either the thief’s capture or his own glorious death. (Survival = 15).
Fenfen(Bob for Iain) AC 18, CMD 13, HP 11/11 d20+3=4 ; d20+3=8 ; d20+8=15 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 12:20:56 PM ”At last. My opportunity for an honourable death may be at hand.” Fenfaren thinks to himself and swings into action from his position behind the man. Twice he strikes with his staff hoping to interfere with the thief’s getaway but likely to no avail (Hit AC = 4 and 8). Despite his poor attempts with the staff he gives chase in pursuit of either the thief’s capture or his own glorious death. (Survival = 15).
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 4 d20+2=20 ; d20+1=20 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 6:04:18 PM Myre nimbly steps aside (reflex 20) when this idiot tries to rob the place in broad daylight. She sighs, then points at the fleeing thief's feet and yells out, "have a nice trip!" A pool of grease forms under him. Reflex save DC15 or he's on his butt.
She gives chase, somehow keeping pace despite her lack of physical ability (survival also 20).
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+4=24 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 8:53:09 PM
When the gnome vendor starts screeching, Paige backs away from the booth, elbows bent and palms facing out to show she hasn’t taken any of his wares. Turning at the commotion, she moves in such a way as to end up as close to Myre as possible.
If the thief evades the pool of grease created by the little magicker, Paige will tap Myre’s arm, and grunt out ”this way!” as she tracks the thief’s progress. (Survival nat. 20, for 24)
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 March 18th, 2022 12:49:05 AM
With Musetta's raspberry Nintos speaks up; "So, what you are telling me is not much discipline was shown."Not my child, but she sure could use her tail jerked. As he watches her as we continue on.
If the clatter at the market is enough to sense through the Empathic Link of his familiar, Nintos will let his two companions that there might be a need to move on faster.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Friday March 18th, 2022 6:19:03 AM Musetta, as your employer, I'm going to need you to be a touch more respectful. I will remind you that as your probation isn't official and I receive nothing from the city as compensation, it means there are zero repercussions for me if I just give up and you go back to jail. None, whatsoever. It means I get to make up implied terms: like if you become more trouble than you're worth, then you go back to jail.
I'm sure you're a smart young lady and it's not going to come up. What has come up, however is your knowledge of this city and its shortcuts. Lead the way.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=21 ; Friday March 18th, 2022 8:28:02 AM
Kwarsk is an unstoppable grunting force of tower shield, deftly but gently making his way through the crowd, twisting his tower shield at precise angles so as not to slow his pursuit. (Survival = 21)
Kwarsk hopefully zigs to the side enough to avoid running through Myre's Grease spell and cut off the mark's escape presuming the mark in fact falls on his butt in the middle of the grease.
DM Melvin d20+5=22 ; d20+4=22 ; d4=1 ; d20+2=19 ; Friday March 18th, 2022 11:21:14 AM
Not everyone has luck in the pursuit. Fingers finds himself unable to track through the thick crowd, his size both an asset and a hindrance. Fenfaran comes out swinging, and gets a tough look from some vendors.
Myre attempts a grease spell, but the thief skids along it, getting some distance. Myre is able to run on his tail, if a bit behind Rhys, Kwarsk and Paige. (Your survival roll determined map position.)
Turning, the man takes a swipe at Paige with his sword, and connects (2 damage). Laughing, he rolls away a bit (no attack of opportunity for Paige), laughing at her.
------------
Nintos and Grothic both seem to think that Musetta, a functionally 7 year old child with who knows what mental issues, background and training, just needs discipline and threats. I'll let you know how it goes.
Nintos' remark about how Musetta needs discipline goes unanswered as he recieves a message from his familiar, and urges the group to go faster.
(OOC: Emphatic link can be a DM call in regards to what constitutes an "emotion." DMs here generally rule that "trouble this way" is simple enough, and that Nintos can fill in the details from that. But the familiar can't pass along any info about the trouble or it's precise location.)
Grothic asks Musetta if there's a shortcut. After some thinking, Musetta points through a dark alleyway.
(Note, the alleyway actually leads to a 10 foot drop at the line.)
Rhys (BobW) AC 17, CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder, HP 12/12 d20+4=22 ; d20+4=12 ; d10+3=10 ; d10=5 ; Friday March 18th, 2022 3:41:40 PM
Rhys continues to sprint after the thief in a shallow arc that brings him just behind his quarry (Q6) drawing his long curved blade as he runs. The cold hard steel glistens even in the small amount of light that penetrates this part of the Nightmare Quarter. With a quick flick of his arm from the shoulder he send the edge of his blade towards the thief (Hit AC22 Critical confirm with a 12 for 10 dmg or 15 dmg if confirmed). ”Cease your attacks on my friends or your blood will certainly join theirs in the gutters of this street.”. Rhys stares the man down, ready to counter his next move.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 d20+4=21 ; d8=5 ; Friday March 18th, 2022 3:56:40 PM
Paige is shocked by the sudden violence upon her person, but then a calmness overtakes her. Courage she thinks as she moves into position (O8) flanking with her friend, Rhys. Drawing her mace, she strikes out at the thief (hit AC 21 (added +2 for flanking so +4 to hit, and 5+2 = 7 dmg )
DM Sanity info:
Orisons: 0/3 used (detect magic, guidance, light) Level 1 spells: 0/2 used (bless, magic weapon) Domain spells: 0/1 used (sanctuary)
Fenfaren (BobW for Iain) AC 18, CMD 13, HP 11/11 Friday March 18th, 2022 4:02:25 PM
Fenfaren gets somewhat lost in the crowd as the commotion erupts around him. If he notices the angry stares of the vendors he assumes that they are meant for the thief and not for him. All he can do now is chase after his new friends as quickly as possible, a frat for which his small size and cumbersome armour are not made for. (Move to N9).
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 March 18th, 2022 4:35:34 PM
The sense of urgency Nintos is feeling from Merletta is strong enough that it pushes the concern of Musetta out of his mind, for now. what have your found girl? Nintos thinks as worry and concern for his friend crosses his mind.
“Grothic, Musetta, this way! I am not sure what she has found, but Merletta is calling us onward. We should hurry!”
Unbeknownst to him, Nintos naturally reaches within a pouch on his belt and takes hold of a sliver of butter wrapped in waxed paper.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Friday March 18th, 2022 4:39:08 PM
All Muuru knows is that the party is chasing the thief, so he runs around the bystanders to H4. If he can see the thief now, he'll complete a double-move and continue to N5; otherwise he'll stay at H4 and pull out his crossbow (not yet loaded). He doubts he'll need it, but he'd rather be ready.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=13 ; Friday March 18th, 2022 9:30:28 PM
Kwarsk's eyes go wide as Rhys nearly cuts the thief in half! "Rhys, no! You can't just murder him for stealing!"
If the thief is tough enough to keep running after Rhys' slice, Kwarsk moves 20' to O8 and tries to Trip X1 with his Tower Shield. (Attack = AC 13)
If the thief instead collapses, or even falls in two halves, Kwarsk still moves forward but stops short, aghast at the cruel slice in broad daylight against a mere thief.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 4 Saturday March 19th, 2022 12:00:57 AM
Ok, she can admit it: sliding along her grease spell like that was pretty baller. She's getting ready to position herself for something else when Rhys straight up hacks at the thief. This upsets the dwarf, it seems, but the dude swung at Paige first and people have a right to defend themselves. Still, their presence limits her options. She scoots closer (L6) and casts a daze cantrip instead (will save DC is 14).
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 d20+4=22 ; Sunday March 20th, 2022 3:50:19 PM
Grothic takes a double move action and has 8 squares to work with. There are seven squares between him and the 10 foot drop. It seems reasonable to (biased) me that I could grab the ledge and climb down just enough to make it a five foot drop.
Climb check 22.
Musetta, stay up here and out of sight. You can't get killed by what can't see you. And you can't get paid if you're dead.
DM Melvin Monday March 21st, 2022 4:17:06 PM
The crowd goes silent for a moment, frozen in shock.
Rhys and Paige strike hard and strike true, to the point that others worry that maybe the rest of the team needs less lethal means. But by the time of Paige's hit, the fight is over. (Anyone who moved after can save their resources or spells.)
The rest of the group manages to reconvene, just as a guard makes his way over to the body. "Anyone here want to explain what happened?"
(Everyone gets 150 XP for the fight. Searching the body finds a kukri, some studded leather (medium), a disguise kit and 83 gp. Also the odds and ends of what he stole.)
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Monday March 21st, 2022 4:44:17 PM ” We were chasing down this thief who has just stolen a number of items from a potions and components stall in the Skull Market when he turned on us and attacked my companion” , Rhys points out the damage inflicted on the young cleric of Domi. ”I slashed at him with my sword to protect my friend and unfortunately it resulted in his death. The fault is surely mine, although he did draw and use his weapon first.”. The elf tries to explain as calmly as he can but in truth his heart is racing with the turn of events. His father had warned him that real combat would be different than the sparring sessions he had endured in the training yard. He was only now realizing that truth.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 d20+1=19 ; d20+11=12 ; Monday March 21st, 2022 5:13:01 PM
When the thief goes down, Paige takes a knee and checks for signs of life (Heal check = nat. 1!, 11). Looking up at Rhys she presses her lips in a thin line, and shakes her head. During her check of the body, she collects the kukri, the disguise kit, the sac of gold, and the stolen items. After a quick peek into the bag (83 gold!) she makes a pile of the items, leaving the man in his armour.
From her place down beside the dead thief, she points to the pile and volunteers: he could have paid, but instead he chose to steal from yon vendor, and use that weapon to wound, and possibly kill. [Diplomacy = 19) She points to the gash on her forearm.
While waiting for witnesses to say their piece, and the guard to provide instructions, the young cleric opens her healers kit and riffles around for some bandages.
Fenfaren (BobW for Iain) AC 18, CMD 13, HP 11/11 d20+6=24 ; Monday March 21st, 2022 5:31:18 PM
Fenfaren moves up towards the body and leans in to hear the explanations offered to the guard. Unsure of what the fuss is all about, the young Druid can only guess that a good death is not as appreciated by these strange city folk as it is elsewhere in the Wold. He retreats behind the larger folk and casts his mind back to the various stalls in the market, once again trying to recall If any of the plants, seeds, fungi, insect parts and other assorted components had particularly sleep inducing effects (Nature=24).
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Monday March 21st, 2022 6:00:25 PM
Grothic helps Musetta off of the ledge and Nintos, too if he needs it.
Grothic whispers to Musetta. [Ooc] I will introduce her once this bit is over.
Musetta, I would hate to imply you know all of the dirt bags in this town, but do you know anything about this one?
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Monday March 21st, 2022 11:12:37 PM
Kwarsk hesitates as the death blow is delivered by Rhys, stops, and listens to what follows, while watching the crowd and the approaching guard.
Paige was wounded, yes, but the thief is dead, or dying.
Kwarsk mumbles a prayer to Pantheon, that if the thief is dead, that he'll get a fairer trial in death than in life.
Kwarsk knows nothing of Plateau City's laws, and waits to see how the Guard judges the situation - was it self-defense, or could Rhys have chosen to wound rather than kill? Perhaps Rhys is a novice with his sword, and didn't expect a killing blow? Kwarsk muses within himself, "I must study these new companions. They don't seem bloodthirsty killers, but this was not the first impression of them I was hoping for... theft deserves jail time if true, but not death."
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 3d6=12 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+8=14 ; d20+6=25 ; Monday March 21st, 2022 11:59:02 PM
Muuru sling his crossbow to his back, then approaches the scene. For now, he stands behind the first row of humanoids that are gathering around, and peers over them; trying to appear as one of the bystanders .
He was afraid of this; a smash-and-grab burglary becomes fatal. Was this really necessary? This group should have a serious discussion about appropriate force.
Granted, it's true that this fellow could have bought several baskets of herbs with that gold, much less the stuff he grabbed. And who goes shopping in armor? (Looks down at himself.) All right, someone who came here straight from work.
Muuru looks at the pile of stolen material, seeing he can tell what it could be ingredients for. (Alchemy: 8, Arcana: 14)
[OOC: The 3d6 was for another game. I needed a die roll]
Flashback In the Catacombs, Muuru has agreed to go with his new friends to the Black Cathedral - but first, he needs to buy a weapon and armor.
He's surprised to see a full selection of crossbows sized for people like him. He really likes the hand-crossbow -- compact, elegant -- but it's really expensive. The light-crossbow will do. If only it wasn't quite so bulky.
Hmmm. If the arms were hinged here[/] and [i]there, it could fold up in such a way that would make it easier to carry, or at least less conspicuous in public. He wonders if he could make something like that in the future, given access to a workshop. (The closest skill he has is Craft: Locks: 25. Maybe he's inspired.)
He also asks the weaponsmith his opinion about that idea. And how much he thinks such a custom job would cost (in the future after his new adventuring career takes off).
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+2=21 ; Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 10:20:06 AM
Seeing the 10-ft drop of the ledge, Nintos uses Grothic’s aid to help himself down. But to his, and possibly Grothic and Musetta’s surprise, Nintos is very agile in climbing down. [Dex 21]
Seeing the rest of the new party, Nintos moves forward; “Sorry about that, it seems we were pulled into the workings of Plateau City’s municipality…” seeing body Ninto’s listens in on Rhys explanation of what happened. “Rhys, this is not your fault. Had you not defended yourself it could have been you on the ground. As you said, he turned and attacked you first.” looking to the rest of his companions; “and it seems you have enough witnesses to corroborate your story.”
[ooc]Since Nintos/Grothic showed up at the end of the fight are we included in that “everyone” for the xp?[ooc]
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 11:09:04 AM Myre lets the cantrip on her lips fade when the stupid thief goes down. She idly strokes Waddles' head as she ponders her next move. She hangs back, waiting to see if Paige and Rhys get arrested before figuring out her next move.
Her eyes slowly lower to the pig in her arms. When did he get out again?
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 11:30:38 AM
Grothic echoes Nintos' sentiment. Yeah, if he would use lethal force to escape cature, then he would use lethal force to escape capture. If we trusted the known homicidal thief to spare innocent lives while his instincts are telling him to fight or flee and he killed an innocent bystander, would not that blood be on our hands? And did he not sign his intent in the blood on our teammate's arm?
Grothic looks away and slightly puzzeld. Quietly, to himself: Who is this person the forest has turned me into?
[ooc] sorry for the inevitable double post when the DM posts later. I wanted to jump on the ethics train while it was still in the station.
DM Melvin d20+8=11 ; Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 3:14:41 PM
The group explains the situation to the guard, examines the body, and generally discusses with the guard (and themselves) whether they did the right thing. Grothic and Nintos make it down, followed by Musetta (who lets out a lot of cursing when using her acrobatics roll to drop down fails).
Fenfaren collects the various parts and studies them. There are definitely ingredients for the making of normal underworld (as in: not surface) drow poison, a few things that clearly got grabbed at random, and he can't quite make sense of the others. (Does he return the items to their rightful vendors or do something else with them?)
The guard listens to the statement easily enough, but scoffs at the idea that violence needed to be done, especially as a vendor notes that Paige chased him first. "Let me guess, number of adventurers, first mission, playing by your own rules, associating with..." He takes a glance at Musetta before continuing. "I think all of you in the future should think long and hard about how you conduct yourselves further. I'm letting you off with a warning, since he did strike first, but the city doesn't need a bunch of vigilantes."
Grothic asks if she knows anything about this particular dirt bag. After some thought, and some study of his clothes, she nods. "Let's just say I happen to know a dirt bag who knows this dirt bag. Hangs around the various businesses a lot, usually steals for quick sale, wonder where he was taking this lot. Wanna meet the guy who usually buys stuff from him?"
The group should take a round to discuss what to do next.
Fenfaren (BobW for Iain) AC 18, CMD 13, HP 11/11 Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 3:39:13 PM
Fenfaren suggests moving the body of the now dead thief back to the cathedral. ”Perhaps the clerics of Gargul can get some answers out of him yet” he suggests. ”They can at least deal with his corpse and send his soul along its final path” . Once the guard has left he will relate his observations about the components and potions to the others. ” These here are key components of Drow poisons” he waves his hands across a selection of items, “but these others I have no knowledge of”.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 3:45:04 PM
Rhys helps pick up the items for transport and then looks to the dwarf ”Kwarsk, can you help carry him? We can use your shield as a litter and we can each take an end”. If the dwarf is accepting he will help roll the dead thief onto the tower shield and then assist in carrying the makeshift stretcher back to the Black Cathedral.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 d20+4=22 ; Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 4:12:55 PM
With a shrug of her shoulders at the nonchalance of the guard, Paige picks up the pouch containing the gold, the disguise kit, and the thief’s weapon. Clarisse did say it was up to us how we dealt with the criminals, that the guards had no jurisdiction, and it was up to ‘them’ to deal with survivors. I guess that means the clerics at the Cathedral, and lord Gargul, will mete out justice. Gesturing towards the deceased, she adds: well, this one’s on his way to his meeting with the God of Life and Death, but I’m sure there are others from the Poisoners Guild about.
Paige is glad that her first night in the City won’t be spent in a jail cell. She scans the sky and her surroundings in order to get a sense of the time of day. (Survival=22). After all, Clarisse had said that the market was getting ready to close up.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 6:14:47 PM I can carry him, Grothic says as he hoists the thief onto his shoulders. But remind me again why we're stealing the body? Also, has everyone met Musetta? I've hired her as my guide through the city and my reading-eye dog.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 8:55:46 PM Myre is glad these folks aren't arrested. She keeps a straight face when the guard lectures them, but rolls her eyes internally. Heavens forbid the guard give up their monopoly on acceptable violence. Not even a thank you!
Whatever.
She looks the elf girl up and down, remembering her from before. "Reading-eye dog?" Her face scrunches up in confusion. "Do you not know how to read? Surely there are teachers at the WLA instead of dragging this poor girl along with us." She turns to Musetta and offers a hand. "Myre, and this is Waddles." She holds up her pig.
"Asking a priest to make this corpse talk seems pretty extreme as a first step. Maybe we search the body more carefully for clues and ask if anyone around here knows him?"
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 11:54:37 PM
[OOC: Can Muuru add anything to Fenfaren's judgement of the materials? I assume you'll use the rolls he already made: Alchemy: 8, Arcana: 14]
You're right, says Muuru to Myre. Besides, it's getting late and we shouldn't take the time go all the way back to the Cathedral.
Muuru squats down to the elven girl. Musetta, I'm called "Fingers". Is there someplace nearby where we examine our late friend here, without being watched?
And while we're on our way, I'd like to know about that fellow you mentioned -- a "fence", is that what they call it?
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=20 ; Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 7:29:22 AM
Listening in on what everyone is saying, Nintos takes a look at the extra components that Fenfaren wasn’t sure of. [OOC] Nat 20, depending on the Knowledge skill needed that could be a 28 for Arcane/Dungeoneerng/Nature/Planes/Religion, or 20 for the rest/INT check[OOC]
Looking through the components; “Is there a chance you could fill Grothic and myself in on what you discovered? We split up after the Cathedral and here we are now standing over a dead body.”
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 10:22:59 AM
Kwarsk is silent for a moment, then speaks to the group, loud enough for the group to hear, but not bystanders further away, " I agree that we should move the deceased to the cathedral. I am surprised Rhys did not seek to strike with the flat of his blade. It would have been much better if we could have captured and then questioned the thief. It didn't look like he was striking to kill - I saw him use the cart to block Paige, and she was incidentally injured. A priest of Pantheon would say that the thief was pretty reckless, but didn't try to kill Paige. We should talk more on this as we work."
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 11:03:01 AM
Rhys stares incredulously at Kwarsk. ”Are you blind dwarf??? The thief used no such cart! He drew on her with his blade and deliberately cut her! Thee was nothing incidental about it! “. The elf stars directly at the dwarf, challenging him to refute the facts.
(OOC. The DM posted nothing about a cart and explicitly stated that the thief purposefully slashed at her with his blade before rolling away and laughing at her)
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 11:28:01 AM
Kwarsk closes his eyes and thinks again, "Hmm... did I confuse Paige with Myre perhaps?" he says aloud.
[OOC: I was half-remembering from a DM post: "With a smooth motion, the mark grabs a bunch of items, pulls the booth towards them both (Myre - reflex DC 15 to fully avoid, 1 non-lethal damage otherwise) and runs into the crowd." Sorry for attributing the thief's non-lethal "attack" on Myre to Paige.]
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 11:43:02 AM I don't know where this is coming from, but something inside of me thinks that bringing the flat side of a blade to the sharp side of a sword fight is a good way to get dead. Why bother defending yourself if you're not going to get hurt, but will spend time in jail if you lose? Are you so certain in your advice dwarf that you would match the injuries on your person of anyone who listened to you? I believe you might have carried that shield so long that you forget the rest of us are not invulnerable.
DM Melvin Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 2:46:34 PM
Fenfaren and Rhys prepare to take the body themselves, perhaps back to the Black Cathedral for questioning. Grothic offers to carry the body but doesn't really think it should be moved. Fingers notes that they don't really have the time to head back to the Cathedral, and wonders if they should move it to another place.
Paige figures that if they really did wrong, they'd be in jail right now. (Or at least senses a power vacuum that means the group has to mete out justice on occasion.) She tries to get an idea of time of day (10 PM.) Myre snarks at the guard's attempt. The guard, for his part, seems to indicate that moving the body crosses some sort of line, but notes that the body will eventually make it's way to the Black Cathedral.
Grothic introduces Musetta to the group, and she seems to shrink back for the first time, clearly overwhelmed with the group's size and non-chalance over the dead body. Myre is less than thrilled at picking up a ward, and votes for asking around the vendors. Fingers seems to be more inclined towards the young girl.
Nintos asks for some idea of what's going on. Kwarsk seems a little confused about the situation, and arguments arise. (But for the record, he pulled a vendor tent on Myre, then deliberately struck out at Paige. If the group wants to address whether non-lethal activity should have been used, it might be good to reach out via email.)
With not much left to learn from the body, Fingers asks a bit more about the... fence, is that the term? (DM: I'm assuming people want to move on, tell me otherwise.)
-------------
"I can't say for sure that he's a fence," Musetta says as she leads you around the street. "More of a very customer oriented pharmacist, kind of a strange guy. But yeah, he's the go to if you happen to want to sell stuff, no questions asked. Macaroni art, in my case, but there mght be others.... And here we are, the Hollow Pit."
The black tower, covered with ravens statues and cobwebs, sat quietly among the taverns and shops.
Dramatically, Musetta gestures at the wood door. "Guy you want is named Jason. I assume this is your part?"
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 3:25:49 PM
Paige looks up at Nintos and fills him in on what has transpired since the party split up. We met up with Clarisse, our contact. She confirmed the job is to ‘dismantle’ the Poisoners Guild. They’ve figured out how to make a sleep poison and have been drugging folks and robbing them. They’ve also been robbing local merchants for supplies in order to make this poison. The cleric tries awkwardly to bandage her wound arm using one hand, and continues: Clarisse says the Office of Administrative Affairs has legitimate authority, but is understaffed. The Guard don’t have jurisdiction, for some reason she shrugs her shoulders. She provided two leads, but was concerned that something was going down tonight at the Market tonight, so we came here first. Apparently there is a mage at the Wizard School who might have some insight into the matter. The young half-elf looks expectantly at the middle aged human, then up at the Black Cathedral looming over the Market. Lets send this fellow on his way, and call it a night. Maybe seek out this mage tomorrow?
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=9 ; d20+4=21 ; Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 3:35:14 PM
[OOC]Any chance I learned anything from my Knowledge roll to help out Fenfaren?[OOC]
Earlier Moving up next to Grothic, Nintos raises a hand; “Woah, we weren’t here when this all went town, so without hearing all of the facts it’s hard to judge. What I do know is we don’t want to be fighting among ourselves and have someone walk by and see a group of people arguing over a dead body…”
Nintos looks around; “I have plenty of questions, like what is going on for starters, but I do not think this this the time or the place to do it.” motioning to the corps; “Move him or leave him, we have to go. My vote is to not leave him for any of his buddies to discover him and start hunting down his killer.
Following Musetta Nintos calls down Merletta;[b] “Fly up and keep watch for anyone following us.” [ooc]Merletta Perception = 9, Sense Motive = 21 I wish the rolls were reversed…[ooc]
“A pharmacist?” Nintos ponders Not knowing what or the way “Is he connected to the Poisoner’s Guild that we are looking for? Regardless, a man in his station would be useful in distribution of poisons and gathering and ingredients one might need. I have studied some on Scribing Scrolls, and there are spells require unique components. He would be a great connection for me to make.” Nintos trails off in though, the latter half probably more of a mental note than part of the conversation.
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 Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 3:44:01 PM
[ooc]Ninja’d by Paige. Add this to the post I just made[ooc]
When Nintos hears of the connection between the Poisoner’s Guild and a mage at the Wizard School he instantly becomes invested; “Of the Wizard School? By chance was this mage’s name offered or which school they studied or taught at?” Being a student of Conjuration and an Novice of the Star Mage Guild Nintos thinks With so much to explore and study when it comes to Magic, how does a Mage find time to get caught up in this. Unless…
Fenfaren (BobW for Iain) AC 18, CMD 13, HP 11/11 Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 6:52:08 PM
Fenfaren listens to the arguments and explanations whirling about him, acknowledges the new ‘assistant’ under Grothic’s protection with a nod, and goes over to assist Paige. “Can I help with that? Securing bandages with only one hand can be difficult.”
When talk turns to visiting the thief’s fence, Fenfaren asks aloud Do we have a plan? Or are we just going to barge in an demand answers? A man who buys from one thief surely buys from others as well. If we sleep watch from a distance we might learn of others and maybe even catch a bigger rat…say a poisoner of this guild. Maybe only send one person in to talk and the rest of us stay out of sight?”
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 7:07:48 PM
Rhys steps back from the dwarf. He eyes the young elven girl suspiciously and looks over at Grothic in surprise. He keeps his thoughts to himself but cannot help but wonder if it wise to involve a child in what clearly can become a violent business at the drop of a coin.
”I am not comfortable abandoning this man’s body to whatever comes forth in the dark to feed. I will go with whoever wishes to return the body to the Black Cathedral, or I will wait here and maintain vigil until the clerics of Gargul or their acolytes come to collect the remains. We can meet up again at the cathedral later.”
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 11:54:25 PM
[OOC: I'm a little lost at this point, but it sounds like Musetta led to Jason's shop while everyone else continued to debate.]
All right, says Muuru. Go back and tell everyone you brought me here. Try to get them to move that body someplace nearby where it won't be seen for a while. And if any of them are going to come here, tell them I said to leave someone outside to watch who else comes and goes through this door.
And with that, Muuru enters the store.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Thursday March 24th, 2022 12:18:03 PM
Kwarks says, "Grothic, I must have missed seeing the thief strike first; my apologies for that. I still think it would have been better if we could have questioned him alive, both for him and for us. Changing topics, I'm impressed you convinced the Guard to release Musetta into your care."
Kwarsk listens to Musetta's conversation with Fingers.
Kwarsk says to Grothic, "shall we follow Musetta and Fingers at a short distance to provide backup if the meet turns into a combat? I plan to," and with that Kwarsk follows behind Fingers about 30' back and beckons Grothic to travel with them.
Kwarsk plans to "stakeout" across the street and a bit diagonal to 'Jason' (30' or whatever feet to the opposing side) and pretend to be minding his own business.
(OOC)(no skills in this area, let me know if I should roll for anything)(/OOC)
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 d20+3=20 ; d20+3=5 ; Thursday March 24th, 2022 1:18:27 PM
Dead bodies are icky, and Myre doesn't have a strong opinion on the matter, other than making sure it was searched. Was it searched? She'll hold her nose and to that if it wasn't: Perception 20.
Otherwise she walks in with Muuru. She feels pretty tiny next to the taur, but she had two minotaur "uncles" growing up who were kind to her. Being back near one is a little comforting.
"Listen first, then talk," she thinks to herself. Instead of opening her mouth right away, she looks around and takes as much in as she can (she'll use that 20 from earlier as her perception roll if it wasn't needed, otherwise it's a 5).
DM Melvin Thursday March 24th, 2022 1:39:32 PM
(OOC: I didn't realize there was a split, and I apologize, so I moved you back to the market, but the lead is there. I'll let you continue to work out what's next.)
(OOC: There's some push as to whether you can crack the formula or otherwise analyze the ingredients, but I don't really have anything else to give you. You can basically return the stuff to the correct vendors, and see if they know anything more. But you can't create the particular poison because you don't even know if it really exists.)
Paige would rather wrap up at the market, pushing stuff until the morning (and maybe bringing the body back). Rhys says he can't abandon the body either. (Paige reminds them that Clarisse mentioned something about the college as well, so maybe they know something.)
Nintos wants to move on, and seems intrigued by the school, though he's flexible where and whether it's with the body. Fenfarem would like to discuss plans before they leave, and seems to favor splitting up (at least to avoid overwhelming the next person to talk to). Fingers and Myre are ready to just enter, but wants Musetta to stay outside where it's safe. Kwarsk remains open to all suggestions, but agrees to stay a bit behind as backup.
The local guard starts calling for someone to move the body, and the vendors move back to the place. Most of the guards and vendors seem to continue their disapproval, but they've by and large left you to your actions. (You'll make the usual checks if you return their stuff. They aren't hostile.)
(I'll give the team another day to decide whether to work the skull market, return to the cathedral, or go to the house. Likewise, decide if you want to continue on or find a place to rest to the next morning. You might want to work it out using an email thread, I'll stay off of this one.)
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 Thursday March 24th, 2022 4:56:32 PM
As Fenfaren comes up with the idea of sending in one person to talk, Nintos offers a suggestion; “I am not the person to go in and have this conversation, but I would be willing to send in Merletta. She isn’t much of a combatant but if a struggle starts to go down for any reason I would sense the stress it would cause her.” looking around to who it might be that goes in; “We would be able to rush in, that person would not truly be alone.”
With a flutter of a whistle, Merletta swoops down and lands on his shoulder. “Just one of the endless options.”
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 d20+8=20 ; Thursday March 24th, 2022 8:26:50 PM
Paige accepts Fenferan’s assistance securing the bandage over the gash inflicted by the thief. As she packs up her kit she answers Nintos’ question: ”Clarisse was pretty vague about the details - said they had a contact at the local wizards school, and that one of the mages might know something.” The cleric looks apologetic. ”She seemed pretty anxious that we hustle over to the Market…said it would be wrapping up soon, so we needed to go right away. Maybe Clarisse or Barem will provide some names when we report to them about tonight’s events?”
As she moves away from the body, she sees there are more guards about now, and the first one on the scene has directed the removal of the thief’s body.
Paige’s mind boggles at the thought of trusting a mouthy kid, and a thief at that, to lead the group to who-knows-where. Could it be a trap? (Sense Motive (on Musetta) =20)
OOC to Myre/Carl - Paige picked up the thief’ kukri, disguise kit, and bag with 83 GP
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 d20+3=12 ; d20+2=17 ; Thursday March 24th, 2022 8:46:41 PM
Rhys settles in to wait for the body to be collected for delivery to the Black Cathedral. He lets the others know that he will follow them to the residence of Musetta’s contact, ” Just tell me how to find the place and I will be along shortly and position myself in an alcove or some other darkened spot to keep watch. a street name or house number would be most helpful.”
When someone shows up to collect the body, Rhys asks them to “find Berem at the Cathedral and let him know that this fellow Is of special interest to him, and that we regret he unwittingly chose death over capture and questioning. We will touch base later when we know more.”
The elf will then find his way to rejoin the rest of the group and stand watch from an alcove or alleyway, the hood of his cloak drawn up over his head. (Perception 12; Stealth 17)
DM BrianZ Thursday March 24th, 2022 8:49:14 PM
OOC- Greetings, I think everyone was on the mail. Is there a substitute available for Grothic for a few days?
Fenfaren (BobW for Iain) AC 18, CMD 13, HP 11/11 Thursday March 24th, 2022 8:57:28 PM
Fenfaren readies himself to follow the Minotaur and the young elven girl to this ‘fence’. ”I think we should hold on to all of these potions and components until we know more about them. Maybe Musetta’s friend can help, or one of the mages at this college you speak of.” he looks at Nintos for affirmation.
” What are we going to ask this guy anyway? Do you think he will answer us, or just tell us to go eat Rapke dung? Maybe one of us should be ready to follow him afterwards…”
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Thursday March 24th, 2022 11:41:28 PM
[OOC: Waiting for the DM to describe the interior and inhabitants of the Hollow Pit.
BTW, I'm posting this at 8:40 pm PDT on Thursday. I need to know what the posting time and day is according to the website.]
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Friday March 25th, 2022 11:12:42 AM
Kwarsk's attempt to follow some of the group to the house and stand guard at a distance has not changed.
(OOC I, and Kwarsk, are in favor of speaking to Jason before Jason necessarily finds out the thief is dead.
Presuming DM Melvin means the group must stick together here and only choose one of the three paths, of course; I think a split is better narratively, but probably excess work for the DMs to resolve, and if there's a combat, the combat is probably balanced for 8 PCs not 2-3 PCs... /OOC)
DM Melvin Friday March 25th, 2022 2:06:40 PM
The arguments continue on as whether to return to the Black Cathedral or follow Musetta. But at the end of the night, it's only Paige that's against following Musetta, with most of the team already deep in planning. So the team moves to head to the magic house after the body is collected and Rhys passes along her message. (If Carla prefers, she can post that Paige heads back to the Black Cathedral on her own along with the body collectors. But I think the decision for the team has been made.)
Paige doesn't exactly trust Musetta, and her sense motive would indicate that she's done her share of thieving (though she seems to be legit on the particular information). Musetta, for her part, picks up on some hostility easily enough, but aside from an "I won" look, she seems to behave herself for now.
(DM Note: I actually have to roll the sense motive checks privately. Just state you're using sense motive and the modifier.)
Others begin to make plans. Nintos considers using his familiar as a scout. Fenfaren wants to hold on to the stolen goods as evidence. Fingers proceeds to enter the magic school, while Kwarsk keeps an eye out from the outside.
Fenfaren asks whether he'll ask honestly, and gets a shrug from Musetta. "We're not exactly going against the smartest or the strongest willed, if that's what you mean. I wouldn't trust him completely, and don't know exactly how deep he's in, but I expect he'd eventually crack."
-----------------
"I can't say for sure that he's a fence," Musetta says as she leads you around the street. "More of a very customer oriented pharmacist, kind of a strange guy. But yeah, he's the go to if you happen to want to sell stuff, no questions asked. Macaroni art, in my case, but there mght be others.... And here we are, the Hollow Pit."
The black tower, covered with ravens statues and cobwebs, sat quietly among the taverns and shops.
Dramatically, Musetta gestures at the wood door. "Guy you want is named Jason. I assume this is your part?"
Fingers enters first, squeezing through the "small" door between two candleabras into what appears to be a waiting room designed by a necromancer. That went blind. Old couches lay haphazardly, books protected the floors and end tables from dust, and the entire room was lit by candles that barely glow.
From behind a rickety desk, an old gnome peeked out at the minotaur. "Hi, my name is Mavros, I'm the headmaster."
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Friday March 25th, 2022 3:20:43 PM
Rhys adjusts his cloak and slips into the shadows outside the school. When gets a chance he asks Musetta ”Exactly what part of the city are we in? Is this still the Nightmare Quarter I have we gone farther afield? I had heard that the Mages tower was shaped like a star, but this place doesn’t look like a star??”
With nothing to do other than wait and watch the elf settles into the shadows for what he anticipates may be quite some time.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 9/11 Friday March 25th, 2022 4:14:31 PM Domi, give me strength! thinks Paige, when the kid gives her ‘the look’ . The cleric plans to talk with Grothic about shipping Musetta off to that nice orphanage outside of town - the one endowed by the Crimson Shields - but that can wait for later. Paige trails after the group, and catching up to Nintos points to the dark tower indicated by Musetta, and asks: ”do you have any knowledge of this ‘school’? Do you think it might be the one Clarisse spoke of?” The red-headed half-elf wonders what kind of ‘students’ attend such a creepy place, and if classes are actually taught at night!?
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+5=21 ; Saturday March 26th, 2022 8:01:53 AM
[OOC]I rolled a Profession Teacher (21), but if a flat Int would be better that would be a 20 then.[OOC]
Nintos thinks of those he has encountered while at the Star Tower. Remembering who the teachers were of the different schools, a mage named Jason, and if there was any connection to this Hallow Pit.
[OOC]Nintos would share any information that he knows.[OOC]
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Saturday March 26th, 2022 2:20:06 PM
Grothic follows the group, with the thief on his shoulders. A grim sight, to be sure but he looks pleased that his Musetta gamble seems to be paying off, at least for now.
[Ooc] Unless I missed something, it's still around ten at night.
After this, it might make sense to part ways, get some lodging and meet back up in the morning. And have we given any more thought to our team name? Temps is fine, but Tempest would be a good name for a group that is a force to be reconed with somewhere between 'everyone has their own way of doing things' and 'not getting along.'
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Saturday March 26th, 2022 4:33:30 PM
OOC: I realize my charisma modifier makes me a natural face for the group, but I've had very little time to devote to the game this week & everyone kinda doing their own thing has left me a bit lost. This won't be the norm for me, it was just a rough week. As such, someone else should talk.
***
Myre shudders to think what kind of student would see this place and think, "Yes. This is the place I need to be." She's a little confused still; she's been lost in her own world today it seems. Still, this Mavros guy is still sitting here waiting for an answer.
"Hello, Mr. Mavros. Is there a...Jason here? Jason. JAY-son. Weird name, I think. Kinda plain? The sort of name a completely unremarkable person would have. What's in a name though, right?" She tilts her head and looks sideways at him. "Are YOU Jason? Jason Mavros? You don't look like a Jason." She makes a point to look around. "Come to think of it, this doesn't seem like the kind of place one would find a JAY-son. Are you sure there's a Jason here?" She tilts her head the other way, and waits for an answer.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Sunday March 27th, 2022 4:08:31 PM
Kwarsk continues to stand guard outside while Fingers "works" Jason for info, trying, perhaps too hard, to look inconspicuous...
A Day at the Office
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.
Little Shop of Horrors
The approach(DM BrianZ) Sunday April 17th, 2022 11:25:36 PM
The team meets near the All Tucked Inn, a few short hours after breakfast. Nintos gets the impression from Merletta, that they were not followed. There are a few thoughts about how to help the orphanage, and perhaps they will have some useful rumors for the team as well.
The WLA did not seem very helpful this time, apparently there are some gaps in their information on local knowledge.
You know where the Pumpkin Patch is. The next decision is, how do you approach, and will it be during the day, or at night?
OOC- the lesser antidotes that Fingers acquired act the same as the regular version, except the bonus is +2(DM fiat item, these will not be available in the Catacombs)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Sunday April 17th, 2022 11:54:06 PM Okay, the Pumpkin Patch is some kind of herbalist's shop. We could start with the subtle method, like yesterday -- a couple go in and ask in whispers about "special ingredients". Meanwhile, we look around for trap doors and suspicious characters, stuff like that.
I still like the idea of sending in Myre as a deep drow, just to see how they react. I think I can teach her a few phrases like "Shh! Don't talk in Undercommon here!"
Depending on how all that goes -- I dunno, maybe we'll go back at night and sneak in. Or barge into their secret labs or something. But if we do that...
Fingers hands a vial to Paige. This is the full-strength version. Its effect last for an hour, so you should probably take it as soon as we enter. Actually, carry one of the lesser ones too, in case you have to administer it to someone else.
Now, who wants to take one of the other three vials?
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Monday April 18th, 2022 10:09:01 AM
Rhys takes a brief moment to relate the very little they had learned in their inquiries. ” Neither the WLA nor the Cathedral seem to know much of anything about the Pumpkin Patch or the Sharas Tel. Berem seemed pleased with our progress but had no further insights.”
The elf declines the offer of the antitoxin and ponders the options for infiltrating the Pumpkin Patch. ”whoever goes in should use the disguise kit to better their chances of fitting in” he suggests.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Monday April 18th, 2022 5:43:13 PM
Paige accepts the vials from Muuru and tucks them into the pouch with other items related to her vocation. Handing over the Disguise Kit to the Minotaur, she volunteers this will increase the chances of Myre fooling someone into believing she isn’t who she really is, so it could also keep her safe. Maybe you will help with the application of the disguise?” (+2 to disguise)
Turning to Kwarsk she asks, ”maybe you could pose as Myre’s companion. You could appear silent and stoic, but alert to any whispers or conversations. You understand undercommon, right?”
”Depending on the size of this shop, we could go in as two separate groups, browsing and looking at wares and trinkets. We could also check it out during the day, and then return in the evening in order to witness the transformation the shop is reported to undergo with nightfall. What do you think?”
What would be wrong with the direct approach? Walk in, lock the door and shake them down? What benefit is there in deception here? If they see through the ruse, then a fight is on with weapons sheathed and allies outside. What are they going to do, report being interrogated about true criminal activities to the authorities?
The approach(DM BrianZ) Monday April 18th, 2022 10:18:23 PM
Plans are made, but not yet in motion. The team seems ready to set up some disguises and check it out, when Grothic suggests the trying the direct approach.
You will need to formalize a plan if you want to visit before lunch.....
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Monday April 18th, 2022 10:24:53 PM The point, Grothic old boy, is that they may give us more or different information willingly than they would by intimidation. But really, we could do it both ways.
Team A goes in and talks sweetly, but if it turns out see through my disguise as an eight-foot drow with horns, then Kwarsk gives the signal of a Dwarvish battle-cry, and you and Team B come in and proceed with the "direct approach".
Assuming, of course, that Kwarsk hasn't finished the fight by then.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Monday April 18th, 2022 11:38:37 PM "Hmm. I'm pretty good at...playing make believe. Yes. We'll call it that. Maybe with some good disguise work I could pull it off?" She pokes through the kit. "Does it come with pointy ears, or do you have to make them yourself with this...what is this, wax? clay?" Myre obviously knows a lot about disguise.
She chuckles at Fingers' idea of disguising himself as a drow. "Maybe if you also added 6 more fake legs? They like spiders, right?" Myre seems pretty ignorant of drow culture for someone made of 1/2 dark elf.
"Let's try disguising me instead, big guy. So long as someone's there ready to throw a punch when I go in, I can do my best to fake it."
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 April 19th, 2022 9:20:52 AM
Giving Grothic a sideways glance when he says What would be wrong with the direct approach? Walk in, lock the door and shake them down? furrowing his brow “What would be wrong? There is the fact that it is a crime, there is also the fact that we don’t know the connections these people have and what they could do to us. Oh, and the effect that potion had on Paige with just the tiniest of taste. We need to tread lightly for this one.”
Hearing Fingers suggestion; “If we go with the two team approach, I would go with team A.”
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Tuesday April 19th, 2022 10:05:55 AM Why would we care if it's a crime? Is the fact that we haven't done anything illegal some magic force field that will keep us safe from them? The potion Paige drank didn't care.
We can do this however you want to, but there's a saying I heard growing up:
Don't plan for the best if it all goes well, plan to survive when it goes straight to hell.
A ruse might work if it was some old lady behind the counter, desperate for conversation and naive to the fact that a scoundrel could be in her store, but that is not what we're going to find in there. This ruse might work if nobody was ever clever enough to try it on the criminal we plan on talking to or he's never thought about trying it on anybody himself. What happens if they look at you and immediately know you’re not part of their community and you don’t pick up on it?
Just don't let anyone lock the door if we're not all together. They know the law will be on them eventually so it's going to be reinforced. There's also going to be muscle in the back, because if you don't keep your muscle close, they're not there when you need them. If that door gets locked and you’re in a fight inside, we will have to break through from the outside. In broad daylight. In a town with guards.
Look, I spent years on a slave ship filled with criminals in a forced retirement with nothing better to talk about all day than which one was the smartest criminal mastermind and why. They aren’t all idiots and we know these ones run a poison making operation and haven’t accidentally killed themselves or gotten caught. I think we could be more careful than splitting up before going into a den of fiends when we don’t know exactly how dangerous they are.
This is the last time I will bring it up for this shop. However the group decides to play this, I will back you.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 Tuesday April 19th, 2022 11:31:21 AM ”Grothic has the right of this. We should not be separated. I suggest we enter as two separate groups; the muscle first and the diplomats second. Once we are all inside, the ruse can begin. “. Rhys looks about the room to see if there is general agreement. ”I will accompany Grothic and hope we are not needed.”
The approach(DM BrianZ) Tuesday April 19th, 2022 9:12:11 PM
A consensus seems to be reached. The group will split into two teams. Team A will try some diplomacy, with maybe some disguises mixed in. Team B will be ready in case things get rough.
OOC- please roll skill checks for the disguises etc in your next post, and indicate which team you will be with.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Tuesday April 19th, 2022 9:15:38 PM
Kwarsk listens to all of the plans, alternately giving no reaction, then perhaps a slight nod, then a hearty nod at Rhys' summation.
Kwarsk speaks up, "Rhys, I agree with you and Grothic. The diplomats probably need one bodyguard, so whoever's doing the talking, I will be with them in group B. If a battle begins, remember my... ever-so-slightly not-super-tall legs... and leave open the flank nearest me in case I need to charge forward to join the fray. If you insist, I could be in the lead group, but I am loath to leave the diplomats unprotected"
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20=17 ; Tuesday April 19th, 2022 9:19:21 PM
[OOC] I cross-posted with BrianZ's post.
Corrected post, taking his post into account: [/OOC]
Kwarsk listens to all of the plans, alternately giving no reaction, then perhaps a slight nod, then a hearty nod at Rhys' summation.
Kwarsk speaks up, "Rhys, I agree with you and Grothic. The diplomats probably need one bodyguard, so whoever's doing the talking, I will be with them in group A. If a battle begins, remember my... ever-so-slightly not-super-tall legs... and leave open the flank nearest me in case I need to charge forward to join the fray. If you insist, I could be in group B, but I am loath to leave the diplomats unprotected."
[OOC] Kwarsk is untrained in Disguise, but I've included a roll just in case. Disguise is CHA-based; Kwarsk has CHA 10; Disguise == 17. [/OOC]
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+1=7 ; d20+2=12 ; Tuesday April 19th, 2022 10:13:19 PM
Paige volunteers to go with ‘the diplomats’. She will volunteer to help Myre with her disguise (Disguise = 7) and then accompany the sorcerer into the Pumpkin Patch.
”Remember! It may be a different place during the day, then it is at night!”.
The half elven cleric will try to look friendly and genuinely interested in the wares in the shop. (Diplomacy = 13)
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 d20+4=5 ; Tuesday April 19th, 2022 10:16:37 PM Myre allows Kwarsk to apply the best disguise he's able. She tries to help, but mostly ends up messing things up & making him reapply what he's already done (aid another: 5 - fail). She tries to not talk while he's working on her face.
"So, am I the diplomat, then?" She looks at her companions. Good people, no doubt, but they seem a bit...pedestrian? Is that right? Maybe. She continues, "what's our actual story, anyway? 'Hey there, Mr. Poison Man! I would like some of your special poison, please!'" She gives an exaggerated wink that ruins the work Kwarsk put into making her eyes more almond shaped. She fails to notice, of course.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20=18 ; Tuesday April 19th, 2022 11:53:12 PM Don't laugh, but I'm going with the diplomats. I'll play the part of the drow's bodyguard. It will give me an excuse to walk in with my weapons, and give her an excuse to speak in Common instead of Undercommon. 'Sorry, about Thog, here; if someone talks to me and he doesn't understand, he gets violent'
Now, I will use the disguise kit a little. I've been in town enough that someone might recognize me, so a little applied color could make them think I'm some other minotaur. Charisma (Deception): 18
[b]Now what should Myre ask about? If she just asks for sleeping poison, maybe they'll just sell her one and we'll have to leave. Maybe she should inquire about buying it in bulk, or wanting to negotiate for the recipe. She'll want to talk to the big boss or head cook or something, that might lead us somewhere. Thoughts?
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 Wednesday April 20th, 2022 9:51:33 AM “I will be going with the diplomatic team. I’m clearly not the greatest with words, as those of you who experienced my story last night, but I can provide knowledgeable insights during the discussion. And, while we are inside I can have my friend Merletta here flying the perimeter of the building and I would be able to sense if there is any one approaching of fleeing.”
Nodding at Fingers; “It would be great to have a bodyguard on the off chance things go sideways.”
“Rhys, I don’t know if it would be best for the muscle to go first. If that doesn’t work out then they would be on high alert when the diplomatic group shows up… making it difficult. But, ill agree with what the majority decides.”
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 d20+3=12 ; d20-1=14 ; Wednesday April 20th, 2022 5:39:58 PM
Rhys prepares himself for what he hopes will be a peaceful encounter and follows the others at some distance. He keeps an eye out for anyone shadowing the group while at the same time trying to appear as a lone tourist in the streets. (Perception 12, Performance/Bluff 14)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Wednesday April 20th, 2022 5:45:35 PM ”Maybe just present as two or three groups of shoppers? Maybe ask about antidotes to sleeping potions, after volunteering that one of us was a ‘victim’?”
Paige expects the daytime appearance of the shop to be more legit, with a transformation to something more sinister when night falls.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Wednesday April 20th, 2022 9:57:33 PM
Grothic will be in the outside group.
[b] Does anyone have a crowbar? [b/]
The approach(DM BrianZ) Wednesday April 20th, 2022 10:31:02 PM
The group(hmm, we need to work on the team name) approaches the Pumpkin Patch. It is an hour or so before lunchtime. There are a few people about, but as this location is very near the Scar, it is less well traveled than other areas of the city. As you approach, you can see the large jumbled mess of the Scar, with piles of debris as high as 60 feet in some places. There are some people in there, going about their business, but many seem to try and avoid it. You also notice some holes in the street, you have heard local residents call them 'potholes'. A guard walks by, absentmindedly kicking a piece of debris into one of the potholes.
Grothic and Rhys remain in the street, keep an eye on things and looking around for potential trouble. Merletta flies nearby, looking for anyone shadowing the group or fleeing as instructed.
Fingers follows the disguised Myre into the store. Paige, Kwarsk, and Nintos follow shortly after. (please determine with your next post if you will be acting as separate teams of shoppers.
The building is large, and although you can't see it all from the street, it definitely has the appearance of having many rooms. Inside, a man with very faint drow ancestry is behind a counter. He seems to be taking care of the sales and customers. He speaks in common, perhaps expecting the need for his customers at this hour of the day. Greetings all, what are you looking for today? Perhaps a few love potions? There is another man behind the counter. He is busy unpacking some supplies, but he seems more interested in those that entered the store than in his work.
There are currently no other customers in the store.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Wednesday April 20th, 2022 11:48:43 PM
Fingers, playing the part of "Thog", will be taciturn and speak mostly in grunts. He's already told Myre that to pay attention if says something about unnamed female, presumably drow. (For instance, if the shelves here have bottles of Eye of Newt, and I think we should get some, I'll tell Myre "She said don't forget the Eye of Newt.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Thursday April 21st, 2022 12:01:05 AM Myre checks herself out in the mirror. She looks more like a drow then when she woke up this morning. Hopefully it'll be enough.
Her heart does sink just a little when she sees the person behind the counter has drow blood as well, but at least he started the conversation in common!
"Sleeping poison," she says to the man. She folds her hands lightly on the counter. "Something strong...and the antidote, if one's available." She waits for a reply, wanting to see if the man jumps to the right conclusion.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 d20+5=16 ; Thursday April 21st, 2022 2:45:34 PM
Perception roll 16 to watch for threats.
So, Rhys. What brought a guy like you into adventuring? Surely, you could have held down a real job.
Does the shop have windows that we can see in? Did we ever check for a back door?
Nintos sends Merletta off; "Keep an eye out, watch if anyone approaches or leaves from the back."
Nintos heads into the shop separate from the group. He goes in as a shopper. He begins looking for simple ingredients of the spells he knows in his spell book; clear crystal, firefly, copper wire, brass key, cured leather, tiny bag & small candle. He also looks for the resources needed to scribe his scrolls.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+6=10 ; d20+8=9 ; Thursday April 21st, 2022 6:19:19 PM
Whilst the sorcerer engages the individual who called out the greeting, Paige separates herself somewhat from the main group inside the shop and scans the environs for displays of wares. She looks along the walls, shelves, counter tops, and studies the ceilings for signs of what this shop is all about. Inhaling deeply, she tries to discern any smells - familiar, or new. (Perception = 10)
The cleric gives the side-eye to the second person at the counter - the one unpacking supplies (Sense Motive = 9) to learn what he is about, but doesn’t get a particularly good look.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 d20+3=21 ; Thursday April 21st, 2022 6:21:43 PM ”Not much to tell really. I had a sheltered childhood, never really left our village. Schooling, training in swordsmanship and exploring the surrounding forest is about it. My father is a member of the elven council and hopes one day I will take his place, but not before I know more of the outside world. He has sent me away from our home to explore and learn about other people and their cultures. I met Paige in Magpie Crossing and she was headed here to Plateau City. Seemed as good as any other place to experience the Wold. “
Rhys scans his surroundings as he talks (Perception 21).
What about you Grothic? You escaped from a slave ship right? So now what?
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=9 ; Thursday April 21st, 2022 9:03:57 PM
(OOC: Perception = 9 to watch for threats /OOC)
Kwarsk likewise separates himself from the main group, appearing to be a shopper. Kwarsk tries to stay within ten (10) feet of Myre and Nintos, with preference for Myre if forced to make a choice.
Kwarsk's "act" is to be his usual taciturn self, grunting occasionally as he scans the shelves and containers, looking for anything familiar to him, given his life growing up underground in The Scab.
The approach(DM BrianZ) Thursday April 21st, 2022 10:51:57 PM
While Myre talks to the shopkeeper, the rest of the team poses as shoppers or servants.
Merletta circles around, but with the adjacent buildings she is not sure which ones are connected to the building you are in. There are some doors in that area, maybe some of them connect? She isn't sure. (In the front, the shop does have some windows, and they are very nice quality. The layout of the front area reminds you more of a foyer to a mansion than a shop.)
Nintos discovers the shop to be well stocked with common spellcasting ingredients, along with typical herbs and spices.The items which would be considered alchemical in nature are behind the counter.
Ah, Merritt says, winking at Myre. You're here for the special stock. He looks out the windows for a moment and seems satisfied not to spot any guards. That stuff is in the back, I'll just be a moment.
Merritt heads through the door into what is presumed to be a stockroom. He nods at his employee on his way into the room. The employee calmly sets down the box he was unpacking, pulls a crossbow out from behind the counter, and then ducks behind it for cover. Another man similarly armed comes out of the room and also ducks behind the counter. You can hear Merritt yelling at them from the next room. Take them out, we can't let them interfere with our plans! You can hear Merritt making some noise in the next room, but you aren't sure exactly what he is doing.
Rhys and Grothic notice the flurry of activity.
We are in combat rounds! I will get a map posted up as soon as I can, but in the meantime you can take your actions. The counter runs the length of the room, you will need an acrobatics check to hop over it without falling prone. The men behind it have cover (+4 AC vs ranged attacks)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Thursday April 21st, 2022 11:32:36 PM
Fingers draws his crossbow and moves. His movement depends on a ruling:
I have reach. If it's possible to melee attack one of them across the counter (horn-gore), I move to where I can do that.
If not, I position myself between Myre and the combatants.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 Friday April 22nd, 2022 12:13:28 PM Well, I might still be escaping it, as the previous owner of this sword was hired to bring us back after the ship burned to the ground. I'm also looking for my broth... ah, sticks.
Grothic draws his greatsword as he Charges the door. He is going to try the handle before kicking it down.
If it's locked Highlight to display spoiler: {[b] See if they have any "I told you so" potions in there!}
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Friday April 22nd, 2022 12:52:32 PM "I put on make-up for this, dude!" Myre ducks behind the counter, where she takes a moment to realize she sounds just like her father when under stress. She peeks up, waiting for one of these jerks to make themselves visible. When they do, she'll try and scramble them a bit.
***
Readied action: Cast daze when one of their attackers is visible. Will save DC 14 or dazed one round and can take no actions.
I'll let our DMs decide how much cover Myre has behind this counter.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Friday April 22nd, 2022 2:56:12 PM
Leaping over sales counters is not something one does in mail and under a medium load! Paige looks about to see if there is another way to get behind the counter - a door? A hinged section? A gap between it and a wall? She also looks for something that might provide cover and makes her move to avoid becoming a target for the individuals with the cross bows as she snaps open the top of her spell component pouch.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 d20+3=4 ; d20+3=23 ; Friday April 22nd, 2022 3:35:49 PM
Rhys ducks into the shop behind Grothic. Staying low he scans the room to identify where their assailants are positioned (Perception 4). The elf tumbles to a crouching stop some 15 feet into the room to avoid any attacks aimed in his direction (Acrobatics 23, Fighting Defensively +2 to AC).
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Friday April 22nd, 2022 8:16:13 PM
Kwarsk is slightly slow to react (that Perception roll of 9 in the prior post), but as Myre takes cover, Kwarsk quickly scans for vulnerable friends, and sees he has a choice between Paige and Nintos, glancing briefly at Paige, Kwarsk says, " Raise your shield, or move behind me!" and then Kwarsk deftly moves between Nintos and the crossbowmen (Move = up to 20') and uses his Tower Shield as a wall between the crossbowmen and Kwarsk and his ward Nintos.
(OOC: standard action to gain Total Cover along one edge of the square Kwarsk is in; Nintos is 1 square back, and DMs may need to rule on how much cover Nintos gains; Kwarsk himself counts as 1 square of soft cover, even without the Tower Shield /OOC)
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 22nd, 2022 10:07:37 PM
[ooc]I don't think I see a map[ooc]
Nintos sees the whirlwind of action take place. Startled by the start of combat and the crossbow aimed his way, Nintos pulls free a piece of wax paper with a sliver of butter in it. Muttering a few arcane words; “duulo svabol wux shilta ti jilg” grease appears to cover the crossbow.
After the spell is cast, Nintos tries to dodge behind some form of cover.
[ooc]He needs to make a Reflex save DC 16 or he drops the crossbow[ooc]
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 22nd, 2022 10:08:14 PM
[ooc]I don't think I see a map[ooc]
Nintos sees the whirlwind of action take place. Startled by the start of combat and the crossbow aimed his way, Nintos pulls free a piece of wax paper with a sliver of butter in it. Muttering a few arcane words; “duulo svabol wux shilta ti jilg” grease appears to cover the crossbow.
After the spell is cast, Nintos tries to dodge behind some form of cover.
[ooc]He needs to make a Reflex save DC 16 or he drops the crossbow[ooc]
I placed everyone on the map at best guess based on the posts. Please let me know if any adjustments are needed.
-Fingers moves up to the counter, and positions himself in front of Myre while he does so. The thug will have a cover bonus to AC, but you can attack him from there. -Grothic starts telling a story when he notices the activity inside. He kicks the unlocked door open, and moves inside -Myre laments the waste of her disguise. Later she may wonder what tipped them off. Myre does not have cover on this side of the room, except for Fingers standing in front of her. When the thugs peek out to shoot, she casts dazel at one of them. -Paige casts a bless spell, the entire party is affected. She thinks the area of the counter near C6 may have an opening. -Rhys tumbles into the room, ready for action -Kwarsk provides some cover for himself and Nintos, putting an imposing shield between them and the crossbows (there is no initiative in the Wold) -Nintos casts grease at one of the thugs. (Thug 2 made the save and holds onto the crossbow)
Thug1 pops up for a shot and is dazed by Myre's spell. He spends the round trying to shake it off Thug2 is concerned about the large minotaur stomping towards him and shoots. AC14 Hit! Fingers takes 6 damage from the bolt, and I will need a fort save(dont forget the bless) Merritt is in the next room, still making some noise. There may also be some mad cackling or it could just be your imagination....
DM reminder to self, new roll vs grease next round
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20+3=22 ; d20+1=21 ; d8=5 ; Sunday April 24th, 2022 11:34:55 PM
[ooc: Adjustment: Fingers is Large and takes up a 10-foot space. (Not sure if this means 5x10 or 10x10). You said to apply the bless bonus to the Fort save. The book says this is for saves vs. fear, but I assume you know what you're doing]
Fort save: 22 Fingers gives a sudden yelp and stumbles at the attack; it's clearly hurt him a lot. He does something probably no one expected: he brings his head down on Thug 2, goring him with his horns.
DMBZ- sorry, was thinking of a different spell, bless would not apply to the fort save. Also, you will need a confirmation roll on the crit
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=23 ; d20+3=17 ; d6+1=2 ; d6+1=7 ; Monday April 25th, 2022 11:09:26 AM
[ooc]First roll is a Natural 20, 2nd roll to confirm critical hit. If range touch critical hits 9 Acid damage, 2 Acid damage if crit doesn't hit[ooc]
Seeing Thug2 land a blow on Fingers, Nintos shouts out “NO!!”, muttering an arcane phrase; “uvelucal valignatic uvelucal saskic” an Acid Dart launches from his finger tips and hits Thug2 square in the chest.
“Grothic, you were right. Diplomatic route wasn’t the right one.” Nintos says as he tries to keep his cover with Kwarsk
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Monday April 25th, 2022 12:03:24 PM "Great, a cackler." Myre doesn't know what he's doing in there, but she's pretty sure it would be funny if he dropped whatever he was working on. She sends a grease spell in that direction.
***
Grease spell (DC15): 10' square from F7-G8 Move: She'll move wherever she needs to for LOS
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 12/12 d20+3=9 ; d20+3=6 ; Monday April 25th, 2022 2:30:52 PM
Rhys can only presume that the shopkeeper is trying to escape and leave his toadies to take the fall. He dashes towards the counter and tries to vault it between the two thugs (Acrobatics 9). Regardless of his success or not he tries to ascertain what is going on behind the counter (Perception 6).
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Monday April 25th, 2022 4:51:44 PM
Morningstar in hand, Paige moves towards the possible opening (C6) in order to get behind the counter, and uses all her movement to get through. If there is resistance, she stops in front of the barrier (door?)
Bless in effect for 1 minute (1/10 rounds) +1 morale bonus on all attack rolls, and saving throws vs fear affects for everyone in the party
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 18 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 combat expertise 1/-1 Monday April 25th, 2022 6:26:35 PM
If there is a hinged door somewhere in the counter (I read it in an email) Grothic will take a double move (8 squares) to get adjacent to one of the thugs.
Combat Expertise is active.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Monday April 25th, 2022 9:23:40 PM
Kwarsk continues to present his tower shield to provide maximum cover (OOC standard action to provide Total Cover along square edge facing crossbowmen) for Nintos, turning his head to the right slightly to wink at Nintos and point towards the crossbowmen's general direction with his right hand and index finger, saying nothing.
(In battle, Kwarsk seeks to maximize the tactical advantage of not shouting every tactic he executes, like a good taciturn Dwarf...)
-Fingers feels sleepy for a moment, but is able to shake off the effect of the poison. He gores the thug, dealing 8 damage to him. (I rolled to confirm the crit, and missed)(please update your hp in the header) -Nintos hits the thug squarely with his acid dart, and with a look of surprise the thug drops to the ground(crit confirmed) -Myre drops a grease spell into the next room, hoping to interfere with whatever Merritt is up to. -Rhys leaps over the counter, not very gracefully but does manage to land on his feet. He can see into the next room, which looks like a cluttered mess. -Paige takes the easier route, and moves to the end of the counter and pushes the swinging door aside to get behind it. -Grothic follows Paige, and moves in front of her to get next to the remaining thug. -Kwarsk continues to provide some cover and indicates a new target for Nintos.
-Thug1 seems to have orders that he is not willing to disobey. He drops the grease covered crossbow, pulls a dagger and takes a swipe at Grothic. He missed. Grothic can see an oily liquid dripping off the blade. -Thug2 is down, and doesn't look like he will be getting back up. -Merritt throws something at Rhys, and it hits him, exploding in fire. Rhys takes 1 point of fire damage. Rhys is still on fire and will take some more damage next round unless it is put out.(If desired, the target can use a full-round action to attempt to extinguish the flames before taking this additional damage. Extinguishing the flames requires a DC 15 Reflex save. Rolling on the ground provides the target a +2 bonus on the save.) -Thug 1 takes 1 point of fire damage from the splash. Thug2 is also in range, as is Fingers. Fingers takes 1 point of fire damage from the splash.
DMBZ- the next room counts as difficult terrain due to all the clutter, movement is at half speed.
Fingers cocks his crossbow and fires at Merritt. (Since he's Large and Thug 2 is prone, I assume there's no trouble firing over him).
Att: 10, less any mods for aiming through the doorway. If by chance that hits, it does 2hp piercing.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 18 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 combat expertise 1/-1 d20+6=12 ; 2d6+8=16 ; Tuesday April 26th, 2022 6:00:08 AM
Grothic swings his greatsword at Thug 1. A) 12 D) 16
If it hits and T1 goes down, Grothic will move four squares around the grease towards the remaining enemy.
Otherwise, five foot step south.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 11/12 d20+7=24 ; d10+3=6 ; Tuesday April 26th, 2022 9:35:47 AM
Rhys winces as the flaming liquid hits him, but he knows the thug between he and Grothic must go down before he can deal with the flames licking at his cloak. His curved elven blade glints in the light as he slashes at his opponent (Hit AC 24 for 6 DMG; +1 Bless, +2 Flanking)
”Grothic and I have this scum handled” he calls out. ”Everyone else, get that cackling alchemist…alive if possible but if not….” Rhys leaves the alternative up to everyone’s own imagination.
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+2=8 ; d6+1=5 ; d20+8=23 ; d20+4=14 ; Tuesday April 26th, 2022 10:27:52 AM
Not wanting to get in the way, Nempura narrows his eye on Merritt; “You will not get away! uvelucal valignatic uvelucal saskic!” and an Acid Dart flies from his hand as he makes a throwing motion. [OOC]Unless Merritt has a low touch, I doubt an 8 would hit him. If it does 5 Acid Damage[OOC]
Merletta is still flying around outside watching the back. Still keeping watch, does she see Merritt fleeing the back of the shop? [OOC]Perception: 23 – Sense Motive: 14[OOC]
Talking out loud to himself; “Merletta, please be watching and not eating on a mouse.”
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+6=17 ; Tuesday April 26th, 2022 3:32:08 PM Courage, my friends! thinks the cleric as she concentrates on the spell she shares with her comrades.
Bless in effect for 1 minute (2/10) +1 morale bonus on all attack rolls, and saves vs fear affects for everyone in the party.
Paige will carefully wend her way through the stock room, avoiding the patch of grease and the detritus about the place, and making sure she is not presenting her back to a thug. She keeps an eye open for any danger, like traps or additional ‘staff’ hiding in the clutter (Perception = 17)
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 d20+2=17 ; Tuesday April 26th, 2022 3:42:01 PM Myre isn't close enough to do anything to Merritt. She needs to get closer. Without hesitating, she leaps over the counter (acrobatics: 17) and past Rhys, briefly sorry she has no way to help the dude as he starts to burn. She makes a diagonal jump through the door to avoid her grease spell. She lets fly a rainbow of color that should just barely get Merritt at the apex of its range.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=18 ; d10+2=7 ; Tuesday April 26th, 2022 8:27:22 PM
Peeking around the corner of his Tower Shield, Kwarsk observes one thug is down and the other is now actively wielding a dagger.
Kwarsk springs into action, moving adjacent to Thug 1 (OOC square F5), then drawing his waraxe as he goes (OOC has +1 BAB and therefore can draw a weapon as part of a move), and finishing with an overhead chop onto T1 (OOC roll = 18) which, presuming it hits, slices cleanly into Thug 1 (damage = 7), hopefully taking Thug 1 out of the fight!
The approach(DM BrianZ) d6=2 ; d20+4=7 ; Tuesday April 26th, 2022 10:36:57 PM
OOC- sorry, still getting used to google docs, Fingers takes up 4 squares technically.
-Fingers shoots at Merritt, but the shot flies wide -Grothic swings at thug1 and connects solidly. (flank bonus+human target) the thug staggers for a moment but is still standing. (Grothic is between the wall and the counter, there is no further move action available this round) -Rhys hits the thug again, and this time he drops. His attack has a cost, and the fire burns him again before extinguishing. Rhys takes 2 more fire damage -Nintos fires another dart of acid, this time at Merritt, but also misses. Merletta is flying around, looking for anyone running. So far she has not seen anything. -With both thugs down, Paige is able to squeeze past the fighters and enter the stockroom. Staying close to the wall, she can avoid the area of the grease spell. The room is full of clutter and is slow going. There are several cages here, some with living or dead animals in them, and a few that are open and empty. She detects some movement to her left. -Myre hops over the counter with a bit more grace than Rhys used, and hops into the room. She knows Merritt will still be just out of range of the spell and saves it for next time. -Kwarsk sees the thug has already dropped and double moves behind the counter ready to get to the next room. (DM fiat, please let me know if you would like another alternate action)
With the ranged fire coming his way, Merritt ducks behind the wall. But you know he is still there, as he is yelling madly, something that sounds like: 'you'll never take me alive!' and 'get them my pretties!'
The movement Paige noticed gets closer and reveals itself to be a giant centipede. It tries to bite her, but does not get through the armor. It doesn't seem deterred and stays next to her.
Paige and Myre can both tell there is more movement in the cluttered room....
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 6/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20+2=18 ; Tuesday April 26th, 2022 11:44:36 PM
Fingers is proabably too big to avoid the grease patch, so he'll use Acrobatics to step carefully: 18 should do it.
Even so, the grease on the floor, the clutter in the room, and the human-sized door each have the same effect on Fingers' movement: they cut it in half. By my calculation, a double move should put Fingers at G10.
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+2=3 ; Wednesday April 27th, 2022 10:19:55 AM
Nintos moves from where he is standing and begins to pursue Merritt. Clearly there is more to this place. I am not sensing anything from Merletta Doing what he can to avoid the Grease on the floor, the end result of a spell Nintos is very familiar with.
If Nintos falls in the Grease he will use his second move action to crawl out into H8. If Nintos makes it past the Grease, he begins to double move and end up at H11 against the wall.
[OOC]Nintos moves from G1 to H8. Single move action. Dex check 3 to avoid the Grease[OOC]
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+3=6 ; Wednesday April 27th, 2022 1:18:57 PM ”Aarrgh! shouts Paige in frustration as she takes a swipe at the centipede with her Morningstar (Hit=3+2+1 bless = 6) and misses?
Bless in effect for 1 minute (3/10) +1 morale bonus on all attacks, and saves vs fear affects for everyone in the party.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 d20+3=14 ; d20+3=8 ; Wednesday April 27th, 2022 1:33:59 PM
With the second thug now incapacitated or dead, Rhys turns his attention towards the alchemist in the back rooms. He carefully winds his way through the remnants of the grease spell and the cluttered storeroom to arrive at the doorway to the next room beyond. (Acrobatics 14, double move to arrive at G11). The elf relies on his dark vision to identify any immediate perils as he moves through the dimly lit space (Perception 8).
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Wednesday April 27th, 2022 8:33:44 PM
Kwarsk continues his double move with a goal of 1) crossing the one grease square between him and the first open square (H8), and 2) if 1) succeeded, then presuming he sees (Darkvision if necessary) the centipede, Kwarsk will continue the second half of his move to end adjacent to the centipede (I8, but if someone else takes I8 first, Kwarsk accepts the risk and pressed on to J8, giving the centipede an AoO).
-Fingers moves into the cluttered room(the grease is a reflex save, but I'll take it) -Nintos follows. He slips on the grease, and crawls to H8(you will need to use a move action to stand up from prone) -Paige swings at the giant centipede and misses. It could be her imagination, but it is acting like it is hungry -Rhys falls on the grease(this is a reflex save, DC 15 from Myre's spell, I will take the roll as I did for Fingers, but this is a miss). He is able to crawl out of the area, to F9. (you will need a move action to stand up from prone) -Kwarsk moves into the room, he manages to keep his footing on the grease, and squeezes between Nintos and Myre to end up next to the centipede(I rolled reflex for you) -Myre readies to fight -Grothic- moves into the room, and falls on the grease.(I rolled reflex for you) He crawls to the side(you will need a move action to stand up from prone
-Merritt peeks around the corner, and tosses another bomb into the room, hitting Rhys with acid. Rhys takes 2 points of acid damage, Fingers takes 1 point of acid damage from the splash. Mad cackling ensues. This time you don't imagine it.
More centipedes crawl out from under the debris, and move to attack the fresh meat which was kind enough to walk in. It seems obvious now what was in some of those cages. -C1 attacks Paige and scores a hit on her leg. Paige takes 1 point of damage, and I will need a fort save from the poison which she can feel from the bite -C2 attacks Kwarsk and is not able to get through his armor -C3 attacks Rhys and due to being prone, finds a spot to bite. Rhys takes 1 point of damage, and I will need a fort save from the poison which he can feel from the bite -C4 attacks Grothic and is not able to find a weak spot to hit, even though he is prone
The room is poorly lit, but no special senses are needed to see what you need for the combat. Standing up is a move-equivalent action that provokes an attack of opportunity. Merritt is benefiting from partial cover from the doorway.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 5/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20+2=20 ; d8+3=11 ; Thursday April 28th, 2022 12:23:52 AM
As the only one with a clear "shot" at Merritt, Fingers head-gores him. Att: 20. Dmg: 11
(Still holding crossbow, unloaded.)
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Thursday April 28th, 2022 12:31:27 AM
OOC: Bother, I got Color Spray's range confused with Daze's. Sorry about the missed post; I winded up in the ER all night.
Myre is frustrated. She can't really go anywhere and that jerk is just out of range of her spell. She uses a different spell instead, trying to daze Merritt.
***
Move: Pout a bit Standard: Daze at Merritt. Will DC 14
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+5=9 ; Thursday April 28th, 2022 9:21:20 AM
Nintos stays seated seeing the giant centipede appear, he begins casting a spell defensively but the spell fizzles. “Blast it!”
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 d20+5=12 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+3=14 ; d8=5 ; Thursday April 28th, 2022 10:06:00 AM
The attack from the centipede unsettles the cleric, but she manages to keep her wits about her and the bless magics persist (Concentration check = 12). Whatever toxins are carried in the creatures bite likely don’t affect Paige (Fort save = 24) and she Carrie’s on with the task at hand, once again swinging her Morningstar in the creature’s direction (Hit = 11 +2, +1(bless) for 14)*
*5+2 = 7 pts dmg if successful
Bless in effect for 1 minute (4/10) +1 morale bonus on all attacks, and saving throws vs fear affects for everyone in the party
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 18 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 combat expertise 1/-1 Thursday April 28th, 2022 3:35:25 PM
There are two things Grothic likes, adreneline and being part of a team. He missed the bond of a group fighting for their lives every day. There is nowhere he would rather be than the back of this potion shop fending off a giant bug.
He stands, either deflecting the bug's bite or taking teeth to his arm. He would love to go with a wide, crashing strike but the sword might get caught on the ceiling or counter. He moves in, keeping the arc of his sword as close as possible.
Math Highlight to display spoiler: {Attack +6 = +4 STR+1BAB+1Bless}
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 18 /12/15 -- CMD 17 -- HP13/13 combat expertise 1/-1 d20+6=7 ; Thursday April 28th, 2022 3:36:30 PM
[OOC] Forgot to roll the attack. Looks like a 1.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 7/12 d20=19 ; d20+5=18 ; 2d10+3=19 ; d10+3=6 ; Thursday April 28th, 2022 6:01:41 PM
In the flurry of activity Rhys narrowly avoids falling on the greasy section of floor and narrowly avoids the centipede that attacks him. He continues his advance on the alchemist that has been lobbing vials in at the group. Once in range he moves smoothly into his attack. If the alchemist is holding any vials in his hands, Rhys will attempt to disarm him (CMB 19+4=23), otherwise he simply attacks the cackling mage (Hit AC 24, Critical confirmed with an 18 for 19 HP; 6 HP if not critical).
“Enough of this you cackling fool. Call off your vermin!” Rhys maintains a defensive posture while waiting for what comes next.
-Fingers hits Merritt with his horns, even though he was using the doorway for cover. -Myre attempts to daze Merritt, and is successful. -Nintos misses his spell, but at least the centipede did not get a free bite. (you will need to use a move action to stand up from prone) -Paige hits the centipede in front of her solidly and crushes it. -Grothic gets to his feet, relishing the combat with friends by his side. The centipede manages to bite him as he stands. Grothic takes 1 point of damage from the bite. I will need a fort save. He swings at the centipede, but missed -Rhys moves in on the mad alchemist(Rhys was not prone, that was my error). When he moves the centipedes take some opportunistic bites at him. The second bite misses, but the first is a crit! Rhys takes 5 points of damage from the bite, and I will need a fort save vs the poison. His focus is apparent however, as he hits Merritt with a crit! The alchemist drops to the ground, whatever his next vial was, it remains safely on his belt. -Kwarsk stands ready for action
Merritt- dead C1- dead C2- attacks Kwarsk again, and once again does not get through the armor C3- moves next to Fingers and tries to bite him, and also missed C4- seems to be focused on Grothic, tries to bite....and missed.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 5/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20+2=5 ; d8+3=7 ; Thursday April 28th, 2022 10:58:47 PM
Fingers does a 5-foot step to H10:I11. (This way he and Kwarsk will flank C2) Then he head-gores C3. Att: 5, Dmg (yeah, right): 7
Use a move action to ready one of the antitoxins. (Holds crossbow in off-hand)
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=5 ; Thursday April 28th, 2022 11:10:52 PM
Kwarsk comes out of a momentary daydream, briefly hypnotized by the writhing centipede's motions, and sees Fingers step into a flanking position. Kwarsk waits (OOC Delays) until just after Fingers completes his slight move, and then Kwarsk swings his waraxe at C2 mightily (Roll = 5), overcompensating for his daydreaming and slices about 6 inches higher than the centipede is tall! Kwarsk grimaces, and focuses on the combat with C2.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Thursday April 28th, 2022 11:11:25 PM
(OOC Correction - Roll of 5, +2 for Flank, +1 for Bless = 8, still a miss I think)
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 13 / AC 18 Touch 13 FF 14/ CMD 17 / CMB # / Fort 5 Reflex 4 Will 0 d20+4=20 ; d20+6=7 ; Friday April 29th, 2022 6:21:57 AM
20 for the Fort, nat one on the attack.
In his defense, it's hard to swing a greatsword against the thing biting your arm.
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+2=14 ; Friday April 29th, 2022 12:28:45 PM
Nintos attempts to stand up defensively to not provoke an attack from the Giant Centipede. [ooc]Dex/Acrobatics 14 to avoid AoO… If possible[ooc]
Once standing He moves back away from the creature to a free space. [ooc]Moving to J7 through Paige’s square of I7 to avoid AoO[ooc]
Nintos’ eyes go wide at the sight of Merritt falling; “Someone get to him! See if he still lives. We need him alive!”
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 2/12 d20+4=13 ; d20+5=11 ; d10+3=9 ; Friday April 29th, 2022 9:20:05 PM
Rhys instantly rues his decision to attack when the crazed alchemist drops to the ground. ”I didn’t mean to hit him so hard” he exclaims. The centipede bite begins to take effect (Fort save 13). If Rhys continues to stand he will attack the centipede (Hit AC 11 for 9 HP) otherwise….
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 d4=1 ; Friday April 29th, 2022 11:26:05 PM
Myre chooses to pretend her daze helped. She targets the critter chewing on her new minotaur friend and rains down a small pillar of tiny meteors. They don't do hardly anything, but it's real pretty.
***
Standard: bloodline power minute meteors. 1 fire damage.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 5/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20=19 ; d20+2=8 ; d8+3=11 ; Friday April 29th, 2022 11:58:51 PM
Unless Merritt is obviously dead dead, Fingers will drop the stuff he's holding and quickly try to stanch Merritt's bleeding, using some of the guy's loose garments or whatever comes to hand.
Heal (First aid) to stabilize: 19
If Merritt is clearly beyond saving, Fingers gores the centipede C3: Att: 8, Dmg: 11
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 d20+3=12 ; d8=7 ; Saturday April 30th, 2022 9:42:49 AM
Paige takes stock of the health of her friends and notes that Muuru and Rhys are both badly injured. The cleric makes her way down the room along the wall (corridor J) sliding past Nintos. She stops at the centipede (C2) and swings at it with her Morningstar (Hit 12 (9 +2, +1 blessor 14 if flanking for 7+2=9dmg, if hit).
”Hang on guys!” calls the red head. Thoughts racing as she tries to figure how best to minister to her wounded companions she wonders if the venom from the creatures they are fighting is a component of the sleep poison? ”I’ve got healing and antitoxin!”
Bless in effect for 1 minute (5/10) + 1 morale bonus to attacks, and saves vs fear affects for everyone in the party
-Fingers moves to flank with Kwarsk, but missed the attack -Kwarsk swings at the same one, but also missed(There is no delay in the Wold, your actions happen at the time of your post typically) -Grothic shakes off the centipedes' poison, but missed his own attack -Nintos withdraws from the centipede to avoid its' next attack(this is the only action that would avoid the Aoo, and uses up the full round) -Rhys shakes off the effect of the poison, but missed his attack -Myre hits centipede 3 with some damage -(Fingers has already taken an action since the last round) but I will confirm, Merritt is dead -Paige moves a bit, and flanking with Fingers, she hits the centipede, squashing it flat(eww)
Merritt- dead C1- dead C2- dead C3- attacks Rhys and missed C4- attacks Grothic, and scores a hit. Grothic takes 1 point of damage. I will need a fort save vs DC13
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+6=14 ; d10+2=3 ; Sunday May 1st, 2022 11:09:41 PM
Kwarsk moves to flank with both Grothic and Rhys (OOC space E9) and then attacks C3 (Roll=14 including flank and Bless) for damage (OOC 3) if he hits.
(OOC - C3 is entitled to an AoO on Kwarsk.)
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 13 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 17 / CMB 5 / Fort 4 Reflex 4 Will 1 Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 178/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/1 d20+4=15 ; d20+8=24 ; 2d6+6=16 ; Monday May 2nd, 2022 8:27:46 AM
15 Fort 24 to hit 16 Damage
Grothic's mounting frustration propels his sword into the bug.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 Monday May 2nd, 2022 1:27:29 PM
Paige follows Kwarsk but the detritus in the storage room makes the going tough as she attempts to reach the injured Rhys (dash at half movement = G9) and there is a giant centipede blocking the way! She concentrates on supporting her allies with her magic.
Bless in effect for 1 minute (6/10) +1 morale bonus to hit, and saves vs fear affects for everyone in the party.
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 d20-1=13 ; d6+1=3 ; Monday May 2nd, 2022 1:31:12 PM
With Paige mentioning that she can heal, Nintos’ attention moves from Merritt to the two remaining Giant Centipedes. With an arcane incantation; “uvelucal valignatic uvelucal saskic!” a Acid Dart flies from his hand towards one of the remaining creatures
[OOC]He would target C3 first because it is in the way to get to Merritt.[OOC] [OOC]13 Touch attack (this is with -4 for shooting into combat and +1 bless) 3 damage[OOC]
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 2/12 d20+7=15 ; d10+3=9 ; Monday May 2nd, 2022 3:39:55 PM
Rhys attacks the centipede that has been harassing him (C3: Hit AC15 (+1 Bless, +2 Flanking) for 9 HP). ” Argh…these creatures are a scourge!”
The approach(DM BrianZ) d20+4=6 ; Monday May 2nd, 2022 10:39:42 PM
-Kwarsk moves into a tactical position to hit the centipedes. C3 tries to bite him as he moves, but missed. Kwarsk takes a swipe back and hits it. -Grothic shakes off the poison and then cuts the centipede clean in half with his sword -Nintos shoots an acid dart at C3 and finishes it off. -Rhys wants to make sure and hits it again.
The centipedes are all dead, and no other enemies present themselves.
OOC- we are out of combat rounds
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Monday May 2nd, 2022 10:54:23 PM
Kwarsk snickered as C3's strike bounced harmlessly off his tower shield, grimaced as his axe cut across the centipede, not finishing it, and then shouted a "Nintos my friend! I knew you had it in you!" as Nintos' acid dart finished the kill.
Kwarsk takes some breaths after the sounds of battle come to an end, looks around, and says, "Is everyone all right? I hear some centipedes have poisonous bites... Paige, you're skilled at healing... any chance Merritt can be made conscious to question, or... (Kwarsk turns his head to look at Merritt) oh... well, maybe he left some writings around here? Also, anyone see any reinforcements for Merritt outside, or the Town Guard?"
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 d20+1=13 ; Monday May 2nd, 2022 10:57:12 PM "That lady didn't mention anything about bugs." Myre tries very hard not to get any bug on her. "Think maybe these centipedes were the primary source of the poison and we just saved the day? That could happen, right?"
Once she's sure all the critters are dead, she'll start snooping around (perception: 13).
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 5/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Monday May 2nd, 2022 11:50:58 PM
Muuru feels woozy. Maybe it's the poison, or maybe...
I just killed a person. Well, I helped...[i]
He'd been in fights back home, and no one seriously injured. Maybe humans are more fragile. Why didn't he use the blackjack? Is there going to be much more death?
Paige? I think I need some... He drops heavily to the floor.
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 May 3rd, 2022 12:56:24 PM
As the sound of battle fades and the adrenalin wears off Nintos looks to his hands then at the Giant Centipede that he killed Did I do that? Is that what I have studied for? Shaking his head clear he checks to see if he had been hit when he hears Kwarsk’s statement.
“That makes one of us! Though, through study, it seems that muscle memory took over in the combat.” It kind of dawns on him; “I have been in combat…”
[ooc]Taking 10 on K-Nature = 18[ooc] Turning to Myre; “You are right! They have glands that produce the poison that can be extracted and used for just those purposes. If you were bit, be careful. The poison can tend to linger for a short bit and will make you feel anemic until you recover. You will feel weaker than normal.”
Nintos doesn’t have the skill to remove the poison glands, but he will see if any of the Giant Centipedes have them still intact. If so, “Does anyone have skills with dressing animals? Removing these glands here would be similar, but could lead us to more antitoxins or poisons. Both could be useful moving forward."
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 d20+11=27 ; d20+11=14 ; d20+11=21 ; Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 3:59:21 PM Rhys is looking pretty messed up, but as the cleric makes her way towards the elven fighter, Muuru calls out. [/i]”What is this!”[/i] she cries out in surprise as the large taur unexpectedly drops. Paige breaks her concentration and releases the bless spell as she changes focus and checks the health of those who are severely injured or down.
Heal checks* in order to learn true status of:
Muuru/Finger = 27 Rhys = 14 Merritt = 21
+11 (did not use healer’s kit)
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 2/12 d20+3=16 ; Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 4:19:02 PM
Rhys sheaths his sword and begins to look around the storerooms for any signs of a lab, a desk and other assorted paperwork (Perception16). ”Be careful of what you touch”!l he warns. ” Things could be coated in poison and there may be other traps.”
The elf picks his way carefully through the storeroom, stopping only briefly to acquiesce to Paige’s impromptu check-up. ”Thanks Paige. I should be fine for the moment, I don’t know about this cloak though.” he holds up the dark green fabric to reveal a number of small holes earthen through it from the acid attack.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 8:43:20 PM "Of all the people we might have to carry out of here...why did it have to be the minotaur?" Myre silently chastises herself for the thought.
She wants to help her new friend, but she doesn't know the first thing about treating him and she'd only get in the way...but maybe there were potions of some sort around here? Antidotes, maybe? Myre casts a quick detect magic and starts looking around, seeing if anything registers.
The lair(DM BrianZ) Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 10:21:49 PM
The battle is over, and there are various feelings about the fight, at least everyone came out of it alive. The remaining poison from anyone that was bit by the centipedes wears off quickly. (all saves were made)
The room you are in housed not just centipedes, but also other similar items. There are very small venomous snakes, spiders, and scorpions in other, smaller cages. Looking about the room, there are also what appear to be glands from some larger creatures. Nintos wonders if the glands from the centipedes could be harvested, but he doesn't have the knowledge.
So far, there is no other noticeable activity in this place.
OOC- since we are out of combat, you may take additional actions per post, such as healing checks/spells.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 2/12 Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 10:56:58 PM
Rhys takes his time and thoroughly searches the bodies of the alchemist and his two thugs, piling anything valuable including armour and weapons in the centre of the floor. He also searches the counter area for anything of interest. ”Surely there are some records here of what has been purchased and sold…or even some recipes for the poisons they are making”.
The elf busies himself with his investigations and then a thought strikes him. ”If we wait in here undetected, perhaps some of these poisoners will come looking for either the alchemist or his products. We could lay a trap and capture one.”
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 5/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Wednesday May 4th, 2022 12:18:04 AM
[OOC: in last post I meant to say Muuru drops to his knees. He's still conscious]
That...Muuru says to Rhys, while wincing..could take all night, waiting for someone. But you're right about searching.[b]
He stands. [b]Nobody touch anything until I've searched for traps. But if you see any recipe books, vials, or evil-looking cooking equipment, tell me at once.
He drinks his "lesser" antitoxin, and proceeds to search the front and back rooms. Perception, taking 20 = 26. (If he has to make a separate roll for each room, he takes 20 each time.)
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 13 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 17 / CMB 5 / Fort 4 Reflex 4 Will 1 Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 178/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/1 Wednesday May 4th, 2022 6:16:36 AM
Grothic takes a peek out the front window to ensure the group isn't about to have a town guard problem.
If possible, close the blinds, flip a sign to closed and lock the door.
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 13 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 17 / CMB 5 / Fort 4 Reflex 4 Will 1 Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 178/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/1 Wednesday May 4th, 2022 12:50:30 PM
Grothic takes a peek out the front window to ensure the group isn't about to have a town guard problem.
If possible, close the blinds, flip a sign to closed and lock the door.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 Wednesday May 4th, 2022 1:00:23 PM
After assessing her comrades, Paige determines that Rhys is most in need of her ministrations. The cleric lays her hands on the elven fighter and channels healing energy into his body.
(Used level one spell slot to cast Heal http://legacy.aonprd.com/coreRulebook/spells/heal.html#heal - Rhys gains 10 HP)
DM Sanity Info:
Orisons: 0/3 - detect magic, detect poison, purify food and drink Level 1 spells: 2/2 bless, magic weapon - spontaneous casting of heal spell Domain spell: 0/1 enlarge person
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 d8=6 ; Wednesday May 4th, 2022 1:16:37 PM
OOC: my bad! Can’t do heal yet. Should be Cure Light Wounds 6+1 = 7 HP for Rhys
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 Wednesday May 4th, 2022 5:06:42 PM
Nintos is just about to help search through drawers when he hears Fingers call out Nobody touch anything until I’ve searched for traps. “This isn’t the library you dummy, of course there might be traps…” he says aloud to himself.
“Merletta is watching the back, I’ll keep a contact with her she was to watch the bad door and warn me if someone was approaching.”
Once the drawers are cleared of potential trap threats, Nintos helps to look for any useful information.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Wednesday May 4th, 2022 6:50:26 PM
Kwarsk moves to stand near Grothic, figuring Kwarsk is the best one to guard the door while his more perceptive friends search the place. "Quite the battle, eh Grothic? You handled yourself, and that centipede very well indeed!"
The Lair(DM BrianZ) Wednesday May 4th, 2022 10:50:36 PM
The group gets to work, there is much to be done. The front of the 'store' is secured and set as closed to the public. The building is searched, and turns out to be larger than expected. Three floors, a cellar, and numerous rooms. A few rooms in, you find a small courtyard, behind which is an alley. The place is a veritable mansion.
Most of the rooms appear to be unused, only two of them have sleeping accommodations set up. Nothing else of value is found in the stinger room. Something will need to be done to dispose of all the poisonous creatures within.
You find an alchemy lab setup in one of the rooms, and it looks like it has seen much use. Merritt and the thugs are searched, and useful equipment is set aside. Nothing of note is found regarding the sleep poison, regarding its' source, but a few vials of it are present. They are stored in an airtight box with a note not to open it during the daylight hours.
A suggestion is made to set a trap for potential guild members who were not here(if any?) but there are wounds to heal as well. There is a possibility the guild has been cleaned out.
Treasure: Merritt: elixirs of hiding (2), potion of barkskin, potion of cure light wounds, potion of invisibility, acid (3), alchemist’s fire (3); Other Gear: leather armor, masterwork dagger, antitoxin, everburning torch, thieves’ tools, smokestick (2), tindertwig (4), 171 gp
thugs: masterwork padded armor x2, daggers (6 total), masterwork short sword x2, each thug has an empty vial. Due to your previous testing, you are confident that they contained the sleep poison. Their weapons will need to be handled carefully until cleaned
lab: 3 sunrods, 4 alchemist fire, 4 antitoxin, 2 smokesticks, 2 tanglefoot bags, and 3 thunderstones. There is a total of 150gp worth of miscellaneous alchemical supplies and 112gp in various coinage. There are 15 vials of the sleep poison in the sealed box.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 5/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Wednesday May 4th, 2022 11:57:55 PM
Muuru goes wide-eyed at the alchemist's lab, not to mention the unused rooms that are doubtless bigger, cleaner, and dryer than the shack he's been living in. You know, suddenly I *like* the idea of waiting here for the guild members to show up. Even if it takes weeks or months...
Okay, seriously -- when our mission is complete, what are the chances we could move into this place?
[OOC: Assuming that this place does not become our new headquarters, I have a question about the "miscellaneous alchemical supplies." Could they be packed into two or three crates and transported to wherever we do set up shop? Or are we talking full-sized cauldrons and stuff, that would take a major operation to move?]
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 13 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 17 / CMB 5 / Fort 4 Reflex 4 Will 1 Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 178/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/1 Thursday May 5th, 2022 11:56:19 AM We're not robbing this place, right? There's clearly a difference in the job we were paid to do and killing everybody and taking their stuff, or is that just me?
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 Thursday May 5th, 2022 1:44:22 PM
Nintos finds himself feeling a little guilty as he was looking over the Everburning Torch, Smokesticks, and the Tanglefoot Bags. “Grothic does have a point. This shop and its contents do belong to someone, but I don’t know if it would hurt to resupply our antitoxins that were used… though it would be nice to have a few of these items for future adventures…” the word seems foreign in his mouth.
[ooc]Nintos would be interested in a few of the alchemical weapons: Alchemist’s Fire/Smokesticks/Tanglefoot Bag/Thungerstones and the Everburning Torch. Not exactly sure how loot works, if we need to divide it up evenly or people kind of speak for what they are interested in.[ooc]
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 2/12 Thursday May 5th, 2022 2:27:49 PM
Rhys joins the debate. ” These guys are evil! They won’t be needing any of this stuff, and anyone who would come to collect it would put it to evil use. I don’t see why we wouldn’t keep it if we need it or sell it to finance our continued pursuit of what I hope are good endeavours. As for this place, “ the elf continues with a conspiratorial wink to Grothic and Kwarsk, ” It would make a great headquarters. Once we move all the chemicals and vials and other nonsense out, we could use the space as a training room for sparring and exercise!”.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Thursday May 5th, 2022 3:46:57 PM
Kwarsk ponders for a moment. To the group, "Back in the Scab, my homeland, priests of Pantheon were often attorneys who worked with our government to determine ownership of property when the deceased left nothing in writing about what to do with their property. Plateau City may have laws covering these. I know it seems silly, but we probably want to find out whether the City officials, etc. would be expecting to come in and follow some written procedures.
That said, if the City has no issue with it, like Fingers and Rhys, I do think this would make a good headquarters for us on our current mission, but it would also make us a target of any of the poisoners' enemies who might attack or rob here, expecting to steal from the poisoners.
Perhaps we should seek advice outside our own group??
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Thursday May 5th, 2022 7:02:40 PM
Rhys thanks Paige for the healing she has provided him ”Thanks! I should have said something earlier, but my mind was on other things when it should have been on the present. Please forgive me. “ He gives the cleric a brotherly hug.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 Thursday May 5th, 2022 7:35:59 PM ”To the victors go the spoils!” volunteers Paige. The cleric chugs one of the vials of antitoxin* Muuru had procured earlier and spends an hour carefully moving the crates containing the poisonous creatures out of the stinger room into the courtyard. ”Maybe the folks at the Black Cathedral will know how to dispose of these critters in a humane fashion, otherwise I could try?” she says with a big grin. ”We’re going to have to let Clarisse and Barem know about this” she gestures in the direction of the villains the party has dispatched “and mayhap claim the reward!?”
Paige likes the idea of having a place to stay in Plateau City even if it is in the Scar on the edge of the Nightmare Quarter. She suggests the ‘loot’ be divided amongst the party and/or sold at the catacombs and the proceeds divided evenly amongst the group - but that can wait until ‘ownership’ of the mansion, formerly known as the Pumpkin Patch is established.
* the lesser antidote (+2 CDM fate item)
The Lair(DM BrianZ) Thursday May 5th, 2022 9:30:42 PM
To the victors go the spoils! There is some discussion on the legality of cleaning the place out. But there can be no doubt the authorities would give their blessing to rooting out a group which would not be recognized as lawful by the city. The poisoners fired first, and seemed to have no compunctions against causing injury or death to you.
Some discussion takes place on the location, but that status is, as yet, unknown.
So what is the decision? Wait for any other Sharas Tel to show up? (if any) Retreat with the spoils and recover from the wounds? Report to Berem? Or maybe just get lunch. By your estimation, the time is just past noon.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Thursday May 5th, 2022 9:34:08 PM "Yes, Rhys has the right of it. Victors. Spoils. Etc." She looks around. Once the blood was cleaned up and the place had been thoroughly fumigated, it could make a serviceable HQ.
***
Sorry, short post. Spent most of today at the hospital getting my youngest an endoscope.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 5/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Thursday May 5th, 2022 11:58:56 PM
[b]I think once all the poisoners have fallen, been arrested, or flown the city, we can talk to the City officials about taking possession of this place.
But I'm sure we can keep the stuff these fellows had on them. Spoils of war, adventurer's custom, something like that.
Meanwhile, we should report to Berem.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 d20+6=16 ; Friday May 6th, 2022 12:53:03 PM ”I’ll keep an eye on the poisonous critters, as well as the back alley, if somebody will make a call at the [i]Office of Administrative Affairs[/]. If anyone needs me, you can find me in the courtyard.”
Paige checks the back alley, then closes and/or latches any door or gate to ensure no one from the alley will wander into the courtyard where she has piled the cages with the snakes, spiders, and scorpions that had previously been inside the building. She keeps the back door of the ‘mansion’ open so that she can hear her friends, and they can hear her. If there is a barrel or upturned crate that can serve as a seat, the cleric settles in to clean the bits of centipede from between the spikes of her Morningstar whilst keeping watch (Perception = 16)
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Friday May 6th, 2022 2:32:24 PM
Kwarsk says, "I agree with Fingers, reporting to Berem sounds best to me. It's possible that when we leave, other members of the Guild are waiting to ambush us along the route to Berem, so if Paige or others have any healing magics left, it might be time to use those before leaving."
Kwarsk then gives himself a self-guided tour up and down the levels for 5 minutes, and then, satisfied, returns to the main floor where everyone else is at and stands near the front door, looking at everyone expectantly.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 d20+3=16 ; Friday May 6th, 2022 4:06:07 PM
Rhys continues searching the building for interesting items, hidden rooms, and any other clues to its former uses prior to being a poisoners den. (Perception 16)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 5/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Friday May 6th, 2022 11:30:57 PM
Muuru goes out to the courtyard. Paige, would you mind healing me? I've got to go to my place and get my tools before any of the poisoners show up. I've looked over this whole building, and it doesn't seem to have any traps.
Yet.
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 13 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 17 / CMB 5 / Fort 4 Reflex 4 Will 1 Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 178/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/1 Saturday May 7th, 2022 1:00:03 PM You may keep my share of the opportunistic loot. My feelings are that if the law came in through the door right this minute, someone would shout this isn't what it looks like and that person would be wrong.
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 Sunday May 8th, 2022 9:50:14 AM
Nintos helps to gather up all that he can when it comes to the loot gained. When others begin to talk about making this place a headquarters, Nintos pauses on gathering loot and begins looking around; “It does have some good bones, might need some remodeling to allow Fingers to have full ease of access to the place,” he nods and smiles at the minotaur; “but it would be nice to have a place to call home.” He says as he takes in this motley crew.
[OOC]I made this loot sheet below. Let me know if you would like me to keep track of loot. This is only from the battle we just finished. I can add everyone’s email address so we can all edit, if you’d like. It is easy enough to move unclaimed items to the claimed items with people’s names next to it. Let me know what you would like me to do.[OOC]
Checking In(DM BrianZ) Sunday May 8th, 2022 10:13:35 PM
The treasure has been collected, and there are still some wounds but it seems like most are ready to head out and check with Berem.
Are you stopping along the way, or going directly to Berem's office?
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 5/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Sunday May 8th, 2022 11:32:46 PM
[b]Wait, I don't think most of us should go. We need to defend this place, under the guise of continuing to operate as if Merritt and his boys are still alive.
Kwarsk, while you're out front: if anyone wants to come it, tell them we're really busy and they have to come back later. If they're insistent, they're probably the bad guys, so let them in -- but don't let them cause any trouble.
Myre, touch up your disguise and sit behind the counter. Pretend you're reading the financial records. No, actually, *do* read the financial records; we're looking for anyone else in the supply chain. If anyone comes in, be curt and unfriendly.
We need someone to watch the rear entrance, and someone to patrol the building in case someone slips in through a secret door or something. But everyone try to stay in earshot of the front room. Espeically you, Grothic.
When Paige patches me up, I'll go report to Berem.
Any thoughts on this plan?
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 Sunday May 8th, 2022 11:40:37 PM
Paige places a hand on Muuru’s arm and explains: ”Domi grants me a daily boon of some magics, but once I have used them, I must rest and then spend time in quiet contemplation in order to have the ability restored. When I assessed your health, and that of Rhys, I determined our elven friend was the more grievously wounded.”
The cleric looks into the Taur’s large dark eyes, and continues: ”if you were able to take a long rest, I am convinced your health would be restored to you. If you are concerned that there might be further dangers in store this day, avail yourself of the healing potion (CLW) Nintos has collected.
If the party decides to decamp as a group, Paige will follow along to The Black Cathedral with the intention of debriefing to Barem and Clarisse.
(OOC: Paige has 2 Level one spells per day. She must choose her spells at the start of the day, but can ‘burn’ a spell slot and spontaneously cast CLW. She cast Bless during combat and used her last slot on Rhys who was down to 2 HP.)
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 Monday May 9th, 2022 9:55:01 AM
Nintos produces the curative potion for Fingers should he need to use it; “Any of this stuff that we could use immediately please take. Alchemical weapons, while powerful to the commoner, are only useful for a short while for adventurers.” Pointing to the pile of armor and weapons; “and some of those are of a fine quality. Possibly better than what some of us are already wearing or using.”
As the mention of splitting the party up, some defending the Pumpkin Patch and others heading back to the Black Cathedral, Nintos chimes in; “I can also stay here and help guard. I am out of my most powerful spells, but I do have a few arcane tricks that seemed to work in the battle we had here.” He says with a satisfied smile; “Also, I can give Merletta new directions to alert me if someone is coming through a specific enterance. That way we can focus our attention elsewhere. She is quite the secretive scout.”
Regardless of what the plan is, Nintos reaches out to Merletta and calls her in.
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 13 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 17 / CMB 5 / Fort 4 Reflex 4 Will 1 Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 178/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/1 Monday May 9th, 2022 10:43:35 AM I am leaving. There is no way for anyone to know what property here was procured illegally and and what is legitimate business. Anyone who heard the fight is finding a guard as I am saying this. At best, this is going to look like one criminal group attacked another; at worst it is going to look like we annihilated an innocent small business owner. What are we hoping for? That our employer will vouch for us? How much do we know about them? What would we gamble that they aren't also criminals?
Imagine a group of criminals that could accomplish all of the violence we just did by nothing more than finding a group of novice adventurers and saying they'll get paid later.
I will never tell anyone in this group what to do, but picking through the wares of a destroyed shop after we killed its employee is only motivated by greed. I say we leave it, walk out and at least look like the good guys.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Monday May 9th, 2022 11:44:40 AM Myre scratches her head at Grothic's words. "Isn't sticking around to talk to the authorities and answer questions honestly what the good guys would be doing in this situation? Seems like fleeing before the guards arrive would make us seem more like criminals, not less."
Though she has to admit, his point about them being used as suckers was a good one. She was too new in town to be 100% that the people who sent them on this mission were on the up and up...or was she?
(OOC: I'm honestly not sure if Myre would know that or not.)
"Plus, we're supposed to be tracking down the leadership. Offing some of their henchlings and running before we could investigate more seems like a poor way of doing that. I'm not too interested in loot regardless. I just think staying is the smart move." She shrugs and makes no effort to stop Grothic should he decide to go. If he's right, they can always say it was his idea anyway.
Myre winces and chastises herself for the thought. It wasn't very nice.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Monday May 9th, 2022 3:09:16 PM
Rhys volunteers to stay behind a help secure the building. ”Grothic may have a point, but I don’t think we can let this poison or these poisonous creatures fall into the wrong hands. If Fingers and Paige can consult with the Cathedral we can likely resolve things with the authorities.”
The elf continues searching the shop for items of interest, including the two crossbows that were originally used by the two thugs when they entered.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 Monday May 9th, 2022 3:32:20 PM
(OOC: per Friday’s post, Paige was in the courtyard keeping an eye on the caged poisonous critters she had moved out there. She is also keeping a watch on the back alley that is beyond the courtyard. (The Perception roll did not elicit a response.)
If she is needed for a trip to the Black Cathedral in order to report to Berem, Clarisse, and the Office of Administrative Affairs she will be a part of that company. She would not let Fingers go alone.
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 13 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 17 / CMB 5 / Fort 4 Reflex 4 Will 1 Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 178/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/1 Monday May 9th, 2022 6:12:25 PM
[Ooc] Just to make sure Grothic's point doesn't get lost, the only thing he has a problem with is taking store property. Sorry for the double post.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Monday May 9th, 2022 7:10:57 PM
Kwarsk contemplates Fingers' words, and says, "Perhaps you're right Fingers, and the rest of you - we send a few to Berem to update him, and maybe find out if he has any opinions on what to do with the bodies, if the guard will want the loot as evidence, etc. I'll stand guard here, then."
DM Melvin Monday May 9th, 2022 9:25:49 PM
More discussion is made of whether to continue to wait around, and maybe it's another chance to split up.
Fingers wants to lay a trap, but volunteers to head to Berem. Paige notes that they may be running out of spells, so they have to decide some risks.
Ninos wants to further spell fortify the place, and sets Musetta to work. Grothic, however, wants to leave lest they get in trouble with the cops (or otherwise). Myre points out that it might look less suspicious to wait until the cops arrive, and hopes that they can make their employers. Neither is quite sure whether their employers can be trusted.
Rhys is in favor of at least securing the building and continuing to search for clues. Paige begins to note that somebody (preferably more than one person) needs to report to Berem. Grothic clarifies that he's just trying to avoid taking property. Musetta pipes up that she's less religious but not ready to go back to jail yet either.
(For all the tough front, it's pretty clear that the last couple of days has had an effect on her. She's seen a lot in her short life, but nothing like this.)
I'll give you another post to decide exactly where everyone goes.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Monday May 9th, 2022 10:03:10 PM
Rhys stays put and helps secure the premises. He examines any doors and windows with an eye towards protecting them from forced entry. Once that is done he spends time cleaning and sharpening his sword and assisting the others with any clean-up efforts underway.
(OOC Nintos is working with Merletta , his bird. Musetta the street urchin has been returned to the orphanage )
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 Monday May 9th, 2022 10:41:33 PM ”Okay! I’ll go with the folks going to the Black Cathedral, report to Berem, and find out if we can expect any help from the Office of Administrative Affairs with regards to ‘cleaning up’ if you know what I mean.” The half-elf flicks a look over the bodies - humanoid and giant bug - in the stockroom. ”Mind the back alley and the critters in the courtyard ‘til I’m back”.
Paige will take the most direct, and safe, route to the Black Cathedral with those who are headed that way.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20+1=15 ; d8+1=8 ; Tuesday May 10th, 2022 12:02:26 AM Sorry, Paige; I did not realized you weren't ready for me. I'll just take a potion and I'll be fine.
[First roll was a d20 by mistake. Second roll: Cured 8 HP]
[b]Grothic, you can come to the Cathedral with us, but I'd feel better if you stayed and help guard until we get back. If the guards show up, tell them the truth: we're working for the Cathedral, we were attacked and defended ourselves, and your buddies are on the way to report in. Tell them we'll pay for the things we appropriated, if the legitimate owner of the property wants us to.
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 May 10th, 2022 11:39:38 AM
Nintos hands Fingers the potion, then begins looking around any paperwork that is on the desk and starts going through the draws of the desk and any filing cabinet. He is specifically looking for any names that might be important to this investigation or names that Berem might want.
Loot Sheet [OOC]Be sure to check out the loot sheet above. Off to the right on the sheet you can put an X next to the items you’re interested in your character’s column. Once everyone has a chance to claim what they want I/we can sell off the rest and divide the gold.[OOC]
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 13 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 17 / CMB 5 / Fort 4 Reflex 4 Will 1 Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 178/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/1 Tuesday May 10th, 2022 8:38:05 PM I am afraid I must stand firm in this. I am fine with investigating suspicious activity on behalf of a private employer and I am fine with self-defensing anyone who needs it to death. I am not fine with this "take what we want and ask questions later" idea, especially when we just killed everyone who might be considered a rightful owner.
I'm no paladin and I have no judgment for anyone here, but there is something inside me that wants me out of this building, empty handed and as quickly as possible. I am leaving.
DM Melvin Tuesday May 10th, 2022 9:33:25 PM
(OOC: thanks for the heads up. Just ignore the Musetta stuff, it was tangential anyway.)
At the Pumpkin Patch, Rhys secures the area. Nintos and Merletta look for clues like paperwork but nothing of note remains. That leaves Myre and Kwarsk to stand guard.
It's still the middle of the day, and people continue to pass by the Patch without barely a look. It slowly begins to dawn on the remainder that they've learned as much as they can, and nobody seems to be visiting or checking out the place.
-------------
Paige and Fingers head back to the Black Cathedral. Fingers asks Grothic to guard, but he leaves after one last push to change the mind of others. (Since we need to move on, and since most of the group seems resolute in staying, I'm going to assume that he just leaves.)
As soon as you have arrived back at the offices, Anthony provides you with a spot of tea. It takes another half an hour before Berem arrives, beaming and patting everyone on the back. Clarisse remains in the doorway, quiet."
"So I've been hearing odds and ends that my favorite employees have been busy. So, who wants to give the report?"
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Tuesday May 10th, 2022 10:44:20 PM
Rhys keeps a special eye on the cages that Paige had piled in the courtyard. The creatures give him the Heebie- jeebies so he keeps a safe distance whenever his rounds bring him back to the area.
The elf’s mind wanders back to the last conversation with Grothic and the half-orc’s unyielding take on the matter of claiming the possessions of the poisoners. Had not Grothic done the same to the bounty hunters he had killed whilst escaping the slave ship? Why would this be any different? He would need to think more on this.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 Tuesday May 10th, 2022 10:55:10 PM
After nodding thanks to Anthony, Paige answers Berem: “Posing as customers we went to reconnaissance the Pumpkin Patch in the late morning. Unfortunately our cover was made, and the three individuals working there pulled weapons and attacked. They seemed determined to fight to the death, and have been sent on their journey. The god of life and death will determine their fate now.”.
The cleric will confirm two thugs, along with their leader are dead, as are several giant centipedes. She will describe the mansion and include details like ‘well used alchemy lab’ and the crates with live venomous creatures. She looks at Clarisse, then back at Berem, and continues: ”Several of our companions have remained at the site and are keeping watch. Do you think you can spare some folks from the Cathedral to help clean things up?”
The red headed half elf catches Muuru’s eye, and enquires: ”Did I forget anything?
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Tuesday May 10th, 2022 11:01:26 PM Myre clears her throat. "After we spent some time canvasing the area, we kept hearing about the same place over and over: The Pumpkin Patch." Myre blinks a moment. "Did anyone actually see any pumpkins there?"
She shakes her head and gets back on track. "Over dinner and breakfast the next morning, we spent a lot of time discussing plans and strategy, culminating in this serviceable disguise I'm still wearing." She pulls off the elf ears, revealing her still pointy but less so ones. "It was all a complete waste of time since they saw through us immediately and attacked." She leans forward. "...and I'll tell you what, they cheated. They sucker punched us, used poison, even made their pets attack us. Too bad for them it didn't make up for their incompetency. We made sure no one came along to ransack the place until the law came." She thinks a moment longer. "Oh, and we can confirm the poison does make elves and their kin fall asleep. Based on how many poisonous critters they had, it's likely they were being harvested to make it." She doesn't elaborate since she's just guessing at this point.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Tuesday May 10th, 2022 11:45:49 PM We've spent a little time going through their records and paperwork, but so far we've found nothing to point to suppliers or accomplices. I suspect that those individuals will show up at some point, probably as soon as tonight, and we have to know how to deal with them.
Personally, I like the idea of pretending to be their colleagues or something until we can learn as much as we can; but it certainly hasn't worked so far. I've probably heard too many tavern tales. Our first question is, how would you suggest we proceed?
Now, as novice adventures, we've come across a...situation that we have some disagreements on. I've always heard that when a party defeats its enemies, it keeps whatever items the fallen enemies had. Now, out in the wilderness, that's probably practical. Here in the city, where we're basically mercenaries under the auspices of the cathedral -- I'm not sure what's the right thing to do.
[b]I know that half an hour ago, I drank a healing potion that had belonged to Merrit. He's the one who'd done the damage to me, so I think was the least he could do. But it would be good to know, going forward: what is the legal thing to do with such property? And, since you're our party chaplain, what is the ethical thing?
[b]We may have talked about this after that fight in the marketplace, but now there's more at stake than just robbing some dead bodies. I don't know if you're familiar with the Pumpkin Patch, but the building is larger than it seems. Three floors, a cellar, and numerous rooms. Even a small courtyard. It has a fully-stocked alchemy lab that alone is bigger than the shack I'm living in. Naturally, when all this is over, I'd love for this place to be our new "guild hall".
But we don't know if anyone still has a claim to the place. If it was Merritt, does he have any heirs? Would the city claim it because it was used for illegal activity? Can we stay there until this is all resolved?
Muuru takes a breath. Sorry, I do tend to go on at 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 Wednesday May 11th, 2022 12:52:36 PM
Nintos seems shocked at Grothic’s response and how he storms off. “What just happened? ‘take what we want and ask questions later’ Were we not the ones ambushed when our intention was to be diplomatic?” He says as he unsuccessfully looks through some of the files.
Pushing Grothic’s response out of his mind with a shake of his head, Nintos turns to those who remain with him; “Looks like people are just passing this place up. Come to think of it, were there people coming and going while it was under surveillance or even when we came in this morning?”
Nintos goes and checks out the shelves seeing if there is standing dust. Nintos thinks to himself What if this shop is just a front and no one comes in? Transitioning from though to speaking; “That’s why they would have known we weren’t here to shop!” If the others look at him oddly; “What if it’s a front?” He examines the age of the goods on the shelves.
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 13 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 17 / CMB 5 / Fort 4 Reflex 4 Will 1 Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 178/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/1 Wednesday May 11th, 2022 10:00:52 PM I cannot speak for everyone, but it would make me feel better if we made our employment more official. Could we get a temporary badge of office, in case the law starts using words like 'robbery' and 'massacre'?
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Thursday May 12th, 2022 12:01:04 AM Myre nods enthusiastically and points both hands at Grothic. "Yes! What he said. We had a whole talk about it earlier and everything."
DM Melvin Thursday May 12th, 2022 9:27:14 AM
Paige provides a report, and requests for help cleaning up the patch. Myre expresses some anger and frustration that the villains 'cheated' (and it took me a while to realize that you were placing Myre in the report back group).
Fingers consider whether they can take loot from their enemies like they would in the wild (and I'll go over the ethics rules in a separate email, but the general rule is that you treat this like you would a goblin cave, unless we indicate otherwise).
Myre and Fingers continue to discuss strategy.
Grothic asks if they can get some sort of official badge. Clarisse snorts in derision before anyone can answer. Anthony makes himself scarce.
Berem looks like he was hit by a bus, but he begins to recover. "Well, I must say that is very good for my promotion... of this fair city being cleaned up, excuse me. As for recovery of the patch, don't worry about it. They could leave right now, and we'll take care of any legal issues or people showing up."
He turned to Grothic. "I understand your frustration that we work halfway outside the system, but it's how we are set up, and necessary for facing certain problems within the city. For now, know that we do have your back and you guys are doing fine in taking the spoils.
"I'm sorry to say, though, that the group has indeed been made... and the poisoner's guild has already struck back. There's been another sleep poison victim, occurred shortly before your altercation.
Clarisse begins to pipe up. "We don't know much, but the attack occurred at the Crypt, a well known gambling establishment close by. You may choose to continue subterfuge but simply showing up to ask for details should suffice."
--------
At the pumpkin patch, the group deals once again with being split up.
And they continue to keep busy. Rhys keeps an eye on the cages. Kwarsk continues to stand guard.
Nintos tries to shake off Grothic's words... and has the realization that nobody comes in to shop.
"That does sound like quite the possibility," a boisterous voice calls from the door.
And so walks in a full mustached halfling barker in a coat that is not quite red. "Such wonders, being in a place of magic."
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 Thursday May 12th, 2022 12:39:35 PM
Having started to inspect the shelves for sign of age, Nintos jumps a little when unexpectantly the boisterous voice booms in. Looking up from the shelf Nintos speaks up; “This is a magical place. My first time in the shop and I have been astonished with the alchemical ingredients and spell components they have in stock or are able to procure.” He says as he randomly grabs an ingredient off of the shelf and looks it over.
[ooc]I am going to move items from the unclaimed to the claimed tab with characters names next to it. Please go ahead and add those items to your sheet. I’ll give it another day or two before taking steps to sell of the remaining items.[/ooc] ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Memorized Spells: 0: Acid Splash, Detect Magic, Mage Hand. 1st: Summon Monster 1, Grease Acid Dart: 4/7 (per day) 1d6+1 (+1 per 2 lvl)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 Thursday May 12th, 2022 3:59:37 PM ”The Crypt. Right”. The half elf cleric figures getting sent off on missions with sketchy intel is the standard operating procedure for the Bureau of Administrative Affairs. Paige will wait until the rest of the group is ready to head back to the ‘Patch’ and join up with the other half of the party. If there are any food vendors along the way, she will pick up enough meat pies, pasties, or other street food for lunch* for herself, and those who stayed back at the shop to guard.
*Let me know if there is a cost, or if this okay for role play.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Thursday May 12th, 2022 7:07:48 PM
Kwarsk suddenly shifts from his stoic guard stance, peering around the edge of his tower shield, seemingly relieved.
(OOC From Kwarsk's perspective, there's an informal camaraderie amongst the 'small folk' (Gnomes, Halflings, and Dwarves), and even if he's mistaken about the halfling's intentions, Kwarsk's mood has visibly warmed. /OOC)
Kwarsk says, "Hail and well met, 'little brother.' what brings you here?"
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 d20+1=20 ; Thursday May 12th, 2022 7:16:56 PM
Rhys is startled from his reflections on Grothic and his reluctance to capitalize on their victory over the Poisoner’s Guild by the entrance of the halfling. He remains just out of sight in the back room while Nintos and Kwarsk engage the red- coated visitor in conversation. ”What can this fellow want in here?” he thinks. (Sense Motive 20)
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Thursday May 12th, 2022 10:21:33 PM "Judging by how quickly and totally subterfuge failed, I'm willing to...what's the term? Throw some weight around?" She ponders. "Yes, that's it."
No badge was a bummer, but she gets the feeling that's a dead end. Myre looks at her companions. She knows that if she is unfairly detained or imprisoned her family will intervene*. Her new friends have no such luxury. She decides the only course of action is to be the one who gets arrested, should it come to that.
For now, she's content to bring news back to the others and go investigate this new poisoning.
***
OOC: This is purely a RP statement from me and I have no expectations that my parents are actually going to swoop in and deus ex machina me.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Thursday May 12th, 2022 11:41:45 PM The Crypt. Got it. Guys, I'm going to stop by my shack for some supplies. I'll meet you at the Patch and then we'll go over together.
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 13 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 17 / CMB 5 / Fort 4 Reflex 4 Will 1 Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 178/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/1 Friday May 13th, 2022 7:59:38 PM
Grothic remembers the story of failed criminals on his childhood slave ship and almost all of them had stories trusting the wrong people and being victim of cut losses.
Well, so long as you have our backs. It's a concept I'm fairly familiar with says Grothic, as calmly and warmly as he can manage. As he turns to leave, he adjusts his armor, as if the sweat or heat was bothering him. Anyone watching him walk out the door sees a patchwork of old whip scars starting at the base of his neck going to his shoulders and continuing under his clothes.
DM Melvin Friday May 13th, 2022 9:11:30 PM
Nintos humors the halfling, noting the magic of the Pumpkin Patch. Kwarsk feels better, sensing an informal camaderie.
In answer to Kwarsk's question, "Why, I am here for you, my good man... Kwarsk, was it?"
He leaned over conspiratorially. "The orphanages have thin walls, if you get my meaning."
Rhys is a little more wary, but he doesn't sense anything of ill will or threat. Highlight to display spoiler: {Rhys does get the feeling, though, that this guy is hiding something about the town or what he knows, but that's for when the time is right. Got to save something for the mid levels.}
"No, I'm just here to invite you and your friends to an experience like no other. Tell me, friends, how would you like to have your fortune told. As real as anything else in this fine city or on this fine planet."
------
Paige begins to resign herself to how things work. Grothic remains silent for a moment, but finally mentions that he'll trust the group.
Myre decides its time to throw some weight around, worried as she may be about the police. Berem looks less than happy about that, but Myre does get an approving smile from Clarisse.
Fingers tells the group that he wants to stop by the shack for supplies, before meeting up at the patch. Paige decides to get lunch for everyone (cost 2 gold coins total, or RP if given say by the church. It'll sort of come back by level up time, but this is a good reminder that I need to discuss consumables over the weekend). Fortunately, there are a number of establishments.
As the group walks down the street, they begin to see another small child, a human with caramel skin and rags wrapped around her body.
"Well, fancy seeing you folk around. Name's Isabella. Just wanted to say thank you for all the help you gave to my little sister Musetta... And maybe see if you're in the mood to keep taking orphans under your wings."
Isabella thought for a second. "Oh, and one more little thing.... Got myself a message for you all."
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 Saturday May 14th, 2022 10:10:35 PM ”Not another one…” thinks Paige when the group is accosted by an orphan who claims an acquaintance with Musetta. ”Here. Have something to eat” she says, breaking a big meat pastie in half and handing it to the girl, before adding ”come along and spill your ‘secrets’” The half elf continues on towards the herbalist shop/lair and her friends who stayed behind to keep watch on the place.
The cleric wonders if the mansion might make a better home for the orphans, than the abandoned coffee shop. Pumpkin Patch Kids sounds better than Puccini’s Coffee House and Orphanage, though Paige really thinks they would all be better off shipped to that nice orphanage in the country set up my the [i]Crimson Shield’s of Hope[i]…
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Sunday May 15th, 2022 10:09:21 AM
Rhys stays in the background and continues to watch and listen to the conversation between the halfling and Kwarsk. Although he senses no immediate threat, the elf does not entirely trust the visitor. ”Who would want to know their future?” he wonders. ”what good could possibly come of knowing that you are destined for ill luck, or greatness, or infamy? Better to let life play out and live it how you choose!”
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 13 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 17 / CMB 5 / Fort 4 Reflex 4 Will 1 Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 178/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/1 Sunday May 15th, 2022 3:19:30 PM
Grothic returns to the potion shop.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Sunday May 15th, 2022 9:45:52 PM
Kwarsk replies, "'Little brother', I thank you for the kind offer, but the timing seems... curious. What name do you go by... today?"
Kwarsk is mildly skeptical of the sudden appearance of the halfling, and for the purpose of 'fortune telling.' Kwarsk is thinking 'fortune telling' is cover for some other kind of meeting, event, or even ambush, but is giving the halfling the benefit of the doubt by granting him additional time to make his case.
DM Melvin Monday May 16th, 2022 3:56:55 PM
Paige provides some food that Isabelle politely refuses before taking it. Where Musetta might have made a smart remark regarding whether "more than one orphan" exists, Isabelle remains more polite and restrained.
Grothic leaves before this plays out.
---------------
Rhys sees danger in knowing the future, but keeps it to herself.
Kwarsk asks for the halfling's name. "Oh, I think we very well know what I say won't matter tomorrow," he replied soothingly. "But since you asked, it's Susan... today anyway."
-------------
Regardless of location, either Isabelle or the Mysterious Halfling tell you all about the wonders that meet you at The All Seeing Eye. Run by two witches with the gift... and who admittedly hired them to find every one of you directly. (You can locate it on the map, along with the Crypt. And, not that either could possibly know this, the group does have a few hours to kill.)
And with that, they leave, their message done.
Shortly after Grothic arrives to the Pumpkin Patch, members of the Black Cathedral begin to enter the building. Along with bringing thick scrolls and measuring ropes, they do much that the group was already doing. A lead gnome in black tells the group that they can leave for now.
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 13 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 17 / CMB 5 / Fort 4 Reflex 4 Will 1 Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 178/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/1 Monday May 16th, 2022 6:16:00 PM
[Ooc] Are the town guard and the black Cathedral affiliated?
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Monday May 16th, 2022 8:57:59 PM
Rhys, the male elf considers the message from the halfling and wonders just why these witches would hire anyone to seek them out, and how they knew about them in the first place. Upon seeing Grothic arrive he welcomes the half-orc and let’s him know what has transpired in his absence.
When the members of the Black Cathedral arrive Rhys advises them if what has been discovered and where, making special mention of the crates in the courtyard.
Rhys waits for the rest of the party to arrive before agreeing to leave the Pumpkin Patch.
DM Melvin Monday May 16th, 2022 9:32:00 PM
OOC: In answer to the affiliation question, I guess I see the two groups as loosely affiliated but with different spheres and kind of getting on everybody's nerves.
Think of the guards/constabulary as the local priests, and the Black Cathedral guys as the feds, but without the gravitas behind it. The groups sort of work together or around each other, though.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Monday May 16th, 2022 10:08:24 PM "Wonders await us..." Myre lets the words wash over her. "Wonders. Await. Us." She chews them slowly.
"Yes, that sounds fishy. That said, it's been taught to me since birth not to discount witches." She absently turns to head to The All Seeing Eye, gently petting Waddles. "I wonder what kind of wonders await us. Maybe it will even be the kind that doesn't cost us up front..."
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Monday May 16th, 2022 11:33:10 PM
[OOC: I may be getting some of these events in the wrong order...]
Muuru, carrying a box of trap-making gear, gets back to the Pumpkin Patch in time to see the Cathedralians shooing the team out into the street. Oh, great. What am I supposed to do with this stuff now?He asks the Cathedral staff if he can leave the box in the lobby for the time being, then joins the team at lunch with Paige, where he says:
These fortune-tellers sound intriguing, but unless they can foresee what will happen to us at The Crypt, we really need to head there to investigate the poisoning. Pass the salt...
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 Tuesday May 17th, 2022 2:19:05 AM
Paige shakes her head when the orphan delivers her cryptic message. Arriving at the Pumpkin Patch she distributes the food she bought to her friends, keeping the half pastie for herself. As she watches the folks from the Black Cathedral take over responsibility for the poisoners’ lair, she listens to other folks opinion on this ‘fortune telling’ business.
”I guess if the witches can see the future, they must know all about us? Maybe they have a ‘job’ for us? Or just maybe they can answer some of our questions? Like who are these ‘servants of the drow’?”.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 Tuesday May 17th, 2022 10:31:20 AM
OOC - that comment about ‘not another one’ was posted as Paige ‘thinking’ - so unless Isabella/Isabelle is a mind reader, she wouldn’t know about it.
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 May 17th, 2022 12:19:13 PM
With the halflings statement of ‘The orphanages have thin walls’ Nintos swallows Damn it! Yes and ears all over this city. Should have assumed that there would be some in the orphanage itself he thinks.
“Fortunes told? As is divination magics? I don’t personally know much about the school, but I would be willing to study it in action.” Nintos’ is interested in where this might be leading.
“Susan,” he says using the clearly fake name; “when are we to be expected? We still have a few matters to tend to first.”
[ooc]Once ‘Susan’ leaves[ooc] Nintos looks to his companions; “Depending on when we need to arrive, are we in any shape to throw ourselves into the unknown? I personally could be better prepared….”
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 13 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 17 / CMB 5 / Fort 4 Reflex 4 Will 1 Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 178/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/1 Tuesday May 17th, 2022 6:08:02 PM
Grothic thanks Rhys for the update. So they showed up and told us two witches wanted to read our futures or something? Did you get the sense we were going to pay for this service and they would surprise us with that when we got there? The sun is up in the Nightmare Quarter, so who knows what they're up to. This is either a really weird, scammy business model or they're going to try to get us to kill someone.
DM Melvin Tuesday May 17th, 2022 8:26:40 PM
The aftermath of the strange offers leaves the group uneasy.
At the pumpkin patch, Rhys has a number of questions, and Myre senses trouble. But neither of them really want to skip this.
Fingers arrives after shopping for traps, the one person who didn't encounter either salesperson, and didn't know the Black Cathedral was coming. He's less than amused, but the Black Cathedral gladly takes the traps and reimburses him. He wants to move right to The Crypt, but Paige points out that they might need to hear what they have to say.
Nintos notes that they might need to be prepared. Right now, the big preparations is the group having lunch.
Grothic is sure this is either a scam or the way someone dies. Kwarsk remains silent.
Despite it all, curiosity gets the best of the group.
And so they make their way to the All Seeing Eye. The building seems to have been renovated, the cobwebs nearly added, the entranceway curios clean and dust free. At the doorway, a few tourists take a look at the wax figures up front, or at the floating devices in the window.
But the fliers tell you to go to the card reading room in the back.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Tuesday May 17th, 2022 9:47:54 PM
Kwarsk says, "Well, if we're going in, I'll go first, just in case this is an ambush... yes, I'm being paranoid, I know. That's a guard's job." Kwarsk cracks a wry half-smile at the last bit.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Tuesday May 17th, 2022 11:03:01 PM Myre just walks on in, then raises her hands to the sky...well, ceiling. "IT IS AS THE PROPHECIES FORTOLD! WE HAVE ARRIVED!"
She puts her arms down, not noticing that she's grabbed Waddles from her pack as she does so. When nothing happens, she looks and finds the flyers directing them to the back. She pouts, having wasted levity on a few tourists instead of a few witches. She starts heading to the back. A low, slow squeak follows her as she grips Waddles a little too tightly.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 d20+6=13 ; Wednesday May 18th, 2022 9:03:11 AM ”I agree with you, Nintos. I have less of Domi’s daily gifts to share at this point. We will just have to be careful. Seeing that these ‘fortune tellers’ use orphans and halflings with a sense on humour - do you anticipate danger at the All Seeing Eye? I believe the Crypt could be another matter - however it is a tavern and would be a public place…?”.
Paige examines the wound from the giant centipede. It has stopped bleeding, and doesn’t look infected.
The cleric finds an opportunity to walk beside Kwarsk as the party makes it’s way to their next destination. She explains that she has one special magic prepared for the day that she would share with the dwarf should the party fall into dire circumstances - but she would use it only if the dwarf was in agreement, since it required laying her hands upon his person and a temporary transformation of his very self. She explains the Enlarge Personhttp://legacy.aonprd.com/coreRulebook/spells/enlargePerson.html#enlarge-person spell, adding ”mind you, this would be only if we get into some sort of trouble.”
The young half-elven woman looks about the strange ‘museum’ pays particular attention to the wax figures (Perception = 13) as the group passes by on their way to the card reading room.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Wednesday May 18th, 2022 9:38:30 AM
Rhys follows along to this ‘All Seeing Eye’ with reservation. He agrees with Grothic’s assessment of the situation and tells him so. ”We will need to be on our guard in this place”.
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=27 ; Wednesday May 18th, 2022 11:02:44 AM “I won’t fight you for going in first, but if this is just a show of divination magics I will want a closer look.” Nintos says closely tailing Kwarsk.
When the show begins to happen, Nintos spends his time and energy studying what is going on [K-Arcana 27, will cast Detect Magic when he finds something that might appear to be of the arcane arts.]
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20+5=8 ; Wednesday May 18th, 2022 3:13:53 PM
Fingers joins the group in the rear entrance. He's heard how some charlatans use tricks -- hidden gadgets, trap doors, etc -- to fake magical ability. He'll keep an eye out for such things (Perception: 8, with +1 if any hidden device could be considered a "trap")
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Wednesday May 18th, 2022 8:12:16 PM
Rhys follows along to this ‘All Seeing Eye’ with reservation. He agrees with Grothic’s assessment of the situation and tells him so. ”We will need to be on our guard in this place”.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 Wednesday May 18th, 2022 9:12:08 PM
Grothic checks that his vials of healing potions are undamaged, his the rings of his chain mail are free of giant insect, his blades are sharp and his wounds are not infected.
[b] I'm ready when you guys are. [b/]
DM Melvin Wednesday May 18th, 2022 9:16:46 PM
One by one, the group enters, with varying degrees of trepadation.
Kwarsk enters first, ready for anything. Myre enters next, declaring herself to the amusement of the onlookers. Rhys enters next, also on guard.
Paige prepares for a second fight, but she also takes some time to look around. The wax figures are endless and disorganized. A number of sailors around a crescent moon on the docks. A trio of robed halflings next to a leg of iron to the right. A group of minotaurs out in the distance, followed by a group of dwarves, followed by a painting of the culverwood.
(OOC: I can tell you now: it's references to other games being played currently.)
Fingers finally comes in, spotting no traps. He can hear the tourists discuss just what he was wondering, whether they are charlatans or real.
Only Nintos is excited, prepared to study this ancient tradition (and using know arcane and detect magic).
Grothic enters last having checked his gear.
And thus does the group enter the room in the back.
Sparse, clean and tasteful are words never used as descriptions of the room. Some words that might include paint peeled chairs, flickering candles, tapestries of indeterminate color. Strays of magic can be detected in the room, but Nintos can't quite make out what magic is being used.
Two old witches stare at the group without speaking, staring past. Finally, one of them welcomes you. "Greetings, members of the Black Cathedral. Welcome to our little abode. Just one gold piece per person, already waived, and maybe your lunch leftovers, and we shall tell you of your fate."
The other nodded. "I am Abigail and this is my sister Gabriel. Pleased to see that Isabelle has once again served us well. Such a talented girl, she will make a great bloodwitch of her own one day..."
"One night. We saw each of you in a vision," Gabriel intoned. "First you were apart, then you were together..."
"Together, we saw," Abigail finished. "Have you known each other long?" If the group answers no, "Curious that you have not known each other long, to our knowledge. But we are in a bit of a hurry, so..."
"So we shall begin as the vision instructed" Gabriel finished as she began using magic to light more candles. "Sit, please, and allow us to read the cards for you. But we should warn you..."
"Warn you that you cannot unsee what you have seen today." Abigail slowly took out a deck that Nintos recognizes as a Harrow set of large tarrot cards. Thunder can be heard from the walls, the storm moving fast. It is difficult to discern if the table has begun to shake.
"Our vision did not reveal much," Abigail continued. "Only that we would perform the reading, and that you would attend."
In unison, "Every person picks a card. When one of us points to you, you will place the card where we so indicate. When nine cards are drawn, the past, present and future will be revealed. Let us begin."
(Everyone should post that they take a card but don't look at it.)
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Wednesday May 18th, 2022 10:27:41 PM
Well, this all sounds like a load of hooey...is what her dad would say, but Myre knew better. She'd seen divinations proven right too often to just discount them.
Plus, what's the harm? Myre's the first to take a card. She does not look at it, but when she thinks no one is looking, she gives Waddles a peek. She silently tells the pig to keep it to himself.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Thursday May 19th, 2022 2:45:42 AM
Fingers takes a card and holds it face down.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 Thursday May 19th, 2022 9:33:46 AM
Grasping her holy symbol in one hand, Paige takes a card from the deck and awaits instruction.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Thursday May 19th, 2022 9:45:11 AM
Rhys slips a card from the rack and leaves it lying face down on the table.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 Thursday May 19th, 2022 2:04:53 PM
Grothic takes a card, places it face down and whispers to his more magically gifted friends.
Is there a way for a malevolent spirit to sign a contract with a mortal by turning to divination magic such as this? Clearly this is important to these people but not so much that they would charge us gold. They only want our consent and participation in whatever this is, and I can't think of a motivation for them that isn't terrifying.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Thursday May 19th, 2022 7:52:26 PM
Kwarsk is skeptical, but politely takes a card without looking at it.
DM Melvin Thursday May 19th, 2022 9:22:28 PM
The sisters continue to move in their divinations, almost as one mind. As the room begins to darken, the candles brighten, the sounds of motion surround the group, and finally, finally....
Most of the group thinks this may be a con... and considers that the good revelation. Nevertheless, they each take a card, and as the sisters gesture to each of you in unison, stopping only to gasp or to chuckle, the following cards are drawn.
The Past
Nintos draws The Tyrant. "This card reveals a ruler who was a blight upon those he ruled." Gabriel intoned. "But notice how the card is in a misaligned position. That may show a tyrant that was revealed or overthrown."
Abigail draws The Marriage, and pauses, unsure. "This card can be a union. A union of people, ideas, kingdoms, or other things. The union may have brought forth a new power, or may have been a ruinous change. Either way, the cards show permanent change."
Kwarsk draws The Cricket, to nods from the witches. "This card is associated with travel," the witches speak in unison. "With a treasure at the end."
"But probably not the type you're thinking of," Abigail intercedes to the adventurers. Gabrielle gives her a side eye before they continue.
The Present
Myre draws The Mute Hag. Abigail notes that "this card invokes blood pacts and treacherous secrets. However, it is misaligned, and in this position it indicates unshakeable loyalty and lucidity of speech."
Grothic draws The Waxworks, and the sisters argue with each other for a few moments. Finally, Gabriel turns. "This card is a place of helplessness and physical entropy. It is the card of torture and imprisonment, signifying literal inability to move or a paralysis of a more prosaic kind."
Fingers draws The Unicorn. Abigail begins this time, "This card offers that which you seek... but it is misaligned and reveals instead betrayal, poisoning, or a false friend.
The Future
Rhys draws The Avalanche. The sisters give meaningful looks and gasps to each other, and their unison talking takes on almost an echo. "This card shows disaster. It is an unthinking, unreasoning thing that overruns all who get in its way. The card is misaligned in this position, and indicates a calamity may be averted, though not without consequence."
Paige draws The Uprising. "This card represents being caught in the clutches of something much more powerful than you," Abigail speaks, as if in a trance. "It can be an overwhelming strength that crushes what comes in contact with it, or the overthrowing of a leader of some sort. It indicates a force that is stronger than yourself."
Gabrielle takes a moment to survey the room, almost shaking. Nintos' detect magic can almost see the woldsblood swirling in her very arteries. She herself seems outside of her body, yet there is a twinkle in her eye as she draws the final card.
She draws The Teamster, as the room falls silent save for Gabriel's whisper. "This card is a driving external force that keeps the subject going, no matter what. The force can be physical or mental, for good or ill... but cannot be ignored."
----------------------
With the reading over, the room is what it was before. The sisters look tired, but quite pleased at their divinations.
"This is your destiny. This is the birthright of this group, this town, this world," the sisters say in unison. "The reading is over. Please avail yourselves of its message. It is time now to go an meet your fate, and you may leave tips at the jar by the door. Also, the spirits would be contented if you could fill out a comment card on the way out...."
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Thursday May 19th, 2022 10:08:34 PM The Mute Hag? That's a little on the nose...
Myre doesn't waste any time before standing. Seems she's not one for pondering her next move. "I will say this, ladies: if you're charlatans, you're very convincing charlatans." She means that in the best possible way. Hopefully it came out that way.
"Thank you for the reading. It's my sincerest hope that we don't gleam its significance moments before our unpleasant demise." She gives a slight bow, then heads out. She drops a gold coin in the jar (and a silver from Waddles, though she's not sure why). She takes a comment card with her. "I'll bring this back when I'm confident this reading was genuine...or false." She walks back out to the common area of the shop and raises her arms again as she walks through the room towards the exit. "IT IS AS THE PROPHECIES FORTOLD! WE ARE DEPARTING!" She'll wait outside for everyone to come along.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Thursday May 19th, 2022 11:49:27 PM
Muuru stands. So, I will find what I seek but look out for -- hidden dangers and poisons? He laughs. Either the ladies are true diviners, or my reputation as a party rogue is spreading around town. Good news either way! He leaves with the group, dropping 2 gold into the tip jar.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 Friday May 20th, 2022 8:32:22 AM
Paige studies the card laid in front of her, and considers the reading as a whole. She is already feeling manipulated by events, so the card she has drawn individually isn’t a surprise. After dropping a coin in the jar, she follows her companions.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Friday May 20th, 2022 2:43:03 PM
Rhys listens to the revelations laid before him and those of the group but says nothing. He leaves a gold piece in the jar before leaving.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 Friday May 20th, 2022 6:20:16 PM
Grothic leaves his card on the table and exits with the party.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Friday May 20th, 2022 10:27:21 PM
Kwarsk leaves his card on the table and exits with the party. Once outside, he lets out a snorting laugh, "Now that was a con! I still can't believe some of you paid real money for that! I suppose it was harmless entertainment, but if they were in need of money I'd rather they have just asked for money and pleaded poverty."
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Friday May 20th, 2022 11:46:25 PM Oh, don't be a spoilsport, says Muuru, after writing a few compliments on the comment card. Now, which way is The Crypt?
[ooc: The Teamster represents you, Melvin, doesn't it?.]
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 Saturday May 21st, 2022 8:25:21 AM
[Earlier upon entry] Nintos thinks to himself What is the source of this magic, and what is it being used for? Nintos takes a card but doesn’t pay too much attention to it as he is lost in thought.
[During the reading] When his card is flipped over, revealing The Tyrant Nintos begins thinking through his studies. Kings and Queens who ruled with an iron fist, rulers who stolen land and enslaved people, mages who use their arcane power to force others to do their will.
“Thank you for the reading.” Nintos says as he stares at the card on the table, still thinking of his history studies.
On his way out he fills out a comment card and places two silver pieces within the tip jar. Nintos knows that not all trades are looked highly upon and that every little bit helps.
[Leaving with the group] “I don’t put much in harrow cards, reading tea leaves or similar foretellings, but I do know that there is a link between those things and the divine, arcane, and at times infernal.” thinking upon the cards; “and depending on the spirits that are being called upon, I would tread lightly.”
Once outside Nintos will detect magic to make sure that there are no arcane bonds that have been placed upon the group.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Memorized Spells: 0: Acid Splash, Detect Magic, Mage Hand. 1st: Summon Monster 1, Grease Acid Dart: 4/7 (per day) 1d6+1 (+1 per 2 lvl) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ [OOC] I am leaving on a family vacation today. I will have my laptop with me and there will be wifi there. Incase I miss a couple days that is why.[OOC]
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Sunday May 22nd, 2022 11:28:00 PM Myre looks back at the entrance and wonders what's keeping her new friends. Were they in danger? Did her hasty exit save her from some terrible fate? Should she go back in there?
She looks down at her hands and finds Waddles looking back at her. They stare at each other in silence. "No, you're right. Someone has to go for help if they're in trouble. I'll wait out here." She looks back at the door. "That's the smart thing to do." She nods, convincing herself.
DM Melvin Monday May 23rd, 2022 10:45:15 PM
Everyone leaves the place, with varying degrees of certitude as to its realness. Discussions are also made as to what the reading might mean.
It is late afternoon when the group leaves, so thoughts are brought as to when to go to the Crypt. The group has a couple of hours (a round, two max) to decide whether to do any last minute preparations or to just see some sights.
(OOC: My apologies for the late evening, so I'll try to give everyone time to post tomorrow.)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Tuesday May 24th, 2022 3:26:25 AM
[ooc: Reminding us that Clarisse has said the poisoners have struck back by sleeping someone at a gambling hall called The Crypt. She recommends we go in and start asking questions. Like last time, it will probably lead to an immediate battle.]
Anyone need a short rest?
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Tuesday May 24th, 2022 2:31:53 PM
Rhys thinks little of the reading…” disaster? Catastrophe averted? Not really much to go on there!”
When discussion turns to the Crypt the elf is ready to go with no need for further preparations. ”What’s the plan? Who is doing the questioning? And where do you want the rest of us?l.
(OOC. Rhys had claimed to vials on elixir of hiding from the loot list but I no longer see them listed…does that mean they are now in my possession? If so I will add them to my character sheet)
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 Tuesday May 24th, 2022 4:06:19 PM Actually, one second. I've got an image in my mind of someone offering me wine and not drinking it themself.
Grothic opens the door, puts one foot in and holds a gold coin over the tip jar.
One more card, please. For you.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 10/11 Tuesday May 24th, 2022 4:14:39 PM
The cleric’s brow creases in thought at Muuru’s suggestion. A siesta might be of some benefit, but Paige suspects a long rest would be better for her and the magikers in the group. However, time is of the essence and it looks like a visit to the Crypt is in order before the day is done.
”Nintos, do you still have those light crossbows recovered from the Pumpkin Patch? Or, have they been sold? “ Without access to her full complement of daily spells, Paige fancies a ranged weapon could come in handy.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Tuesday May 24th, 2022 5:18:41 PM Myre is only down one spell slot, so should be ready to go.
"I can do the talking again. People seem to want to tell me things when I'm around. Usually they end with 'so go ask him and leave me alone' or something similar. Almost like they want to get rid of me!" She chuckles. "I don't see why. I'm quite charming." She puts Waddles back in her pack and straightens out her dress. She's ready to go anytime.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Tuesday May 24th, 2022 7:54:20 PM
Kwarsk says, "I was not hurt in the fight, so we can go now or later, as the group thinks best. I, too, am concerned over the new sleep victim, so perhaps time is of the essence?"
DM Melvin Tuesday May 24th, 2022 9:50:40 PM
Fingers wonders if they should rest. Rhys is ready to go (after a quick discussion). Paige wonders if a rest would do well (but to be honest, I figured you guys rested and healed before leaving the Pumpkin Patch, so you really should have all spells and HP by now.)
Grothic pries open the door, asking (I think) if the witches can see a card for their future. The witches, however, seem to be absent from the room, so they can't answer.
Nintos or Know Arcana 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You're a little less confused about the reading but understand its even less useful. You know that the cards are tied not necessarily to the drawer of the card or even to the group. It may be, for example, about the city itself. You also know the process: 3 cards about the past, 3 cards about the present, and 3 about what may come to pass.}
Myre offers to talk her way through, and is dressed for the occassion.
Kwarsk is ready to go.
Nintos, even with his on fire arcana check and detect magic, can't tell if what happened was a trick, or what magic was used. What he does figure out: Highlight to display spoiler: { 1) There seem to be a lot of non-divination magic going on (like prestidigitation) and a few areas where magic was absent but should have been present. 2) Divination is present on the cards themselves, as might other expected things like conjuration. But how it's done is obscure, possibly because they are using tarot cards rather than scrying objects. 3) No, I am not the taskmaster. I'm one of the witches. }
I'll give the group one more round to make plans, then assume everyone enters (unless told otherwise) at the end of the round.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Wednesday May 25th, 2022 8:06:04 PM (OOC: so it is as if we had a long rest and all spells and HP are restored?)
”I see no reason we can’t try diplomacy in this circumstance! Paige answers in response to Myre’s suggestion. ”Lets see if we can question the victim or the sleep poison and learn something of what happened.”
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Wednesday May 25th, 2022 8:51:43 PM
Kwarsk stands impatiently, humming a Dwarven tune (OOC: off-key, but there's no other dwarves here to notice!), maintaining his readiness to go.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Wednesday May 25th, 2022 9:25:03 PM
Rhys nods in agreement when Paige mentions diplomacy. ”I’ll just stand ready if needed” he says and prepares to enter the Crypt when the rest of his companions enter.
DM Melvin Wednesday May 25th, 2022 9:38:53 PM
Night begins to fall as the group makes it's way toward the Crypt. Guards continue to mill about the alleyway, scrying and searching for any clues that have been left.
One or two of them eye you warily as you approach, but they don't seem interested in approaching you.
Down the staircase into the landing below, a guard continues to argue with a ratfolk bouncer. Through the door, all sorts of conversation and music can be heard, the ratfolk's feet bathed in red and blue candlelight. Occasionally, a couple of patrons in fancy clothes file in and out, giving a greater amount of the din.
Only Myre gets a smile from the bouncer, but he doesn't seem interested in blocking anyone else from going inside.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 Wednesday May 25th, 2022 9:59:20 PM
Grothic enters.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Wednesday May 25th, 2022 10:41:23 PM
Kwarsk enters, to the right of Grothic if possible, else right behind Grothic.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Wednesday May 25th, 2022 10:54:40 PM
Fingers enters and stays near Myre, again trying to appear to be her bodyguard. His crossbow is slung and his blackjack holstered; if the guards in this place to require us to check our weapons, he will.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Thursday May 26th, 2022 1:12:09 AM Myre watches people enter and leave for a bit. "I believe," she starts, "this is one of those places that only wants attractive people to enter." She blushes, then quickly adds "The fancy kind of attractive, I mean. The kind that wears a suit or pretty dress, like so." She gives the dress a little flourish. She clears her throat and puts on her regal face. Surprisingly enough, she pulls it off. Just like that, Myre has the air of someone who grew up among nobility. She catches on to Fingers' plan and likewise puts herself in the minotaur's shadow while adopting a more fearless demeanor. She hands her bag to Fingers' to hold, indicating he's here to keep her safe. She smiles as she passes the bouncer, but makes no attempt to explain Fingers' presence. She expects the bouncer to let her bodyguard pass, obviously.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 d20+3=14 ; d20+1=2 ; Thursday May 26th, 2022 10:55:31 AM
Rhys delays going in, ostensibly to allow the others to precede him, but also to hear what the guard and the bouncer are discussing. (Perception to hear conversation 14; Sense motive to see if bouncer is being truthful 2).
Regardless, Rhys will follow the others into the Crypt
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+6=9 ; Thursday May 26th, 2022 4:52:46 PM
Paige follows her friends past the smiling bouncer who doesn’t seem interested in blocking anyone from going inside. She listens to the conversations going on inside the tavern (Perception = 9) as she enters the place.
DM Melvin Thursday May 26th, 2022 9:23:23 PM
The bouncer glowers at the group carefully, but decides to let you enter. He takes a moment first, to remind you that you can easily find some ways to spend money by gambling, drinking, and so forth. In case you weren't planning on it.
Also, "your weapons. I expect that you won't draw any of them within the establishment itself, and that we won't have any trouble. Enjoy your evenings, gentlemen, ladies."
Grothic and Kwarsk enter the building first as a pair.
Myre and Fingers enter as the next pair, figuring they at least look the part.
Paige enters next, focusing on the conversations.
----------
Rhys stays behind, wondering what to say, and Nintos seems unsure of what to do.
From what Rhys can hear from his questions, there was an altercation the night before (shortly after the battle at the Pumpkin Patch). But unlike the Crypt's usual nightly altercation, this one was bloodier. A ruffian resorted to using a poisoned dagger after a fight broke out over one of the games.
And so the victim remained in a deep slumber for several hours, unable to be woken.
The bouncer, for his part, continued to insist that his owner and the patrons know nothing, pointing out their quite extensive and very legitimate connections. "Now, we called you so that you could... handle this little indiscretion, and I hope that won't be a problem."
----------
Inside, waiters and waitresses move drinks among gaming table after gaming table. Aside from some curious looks towards Myre and Fingers, most of the patrons seem to be quite interested in their activities or their table mates. A band continues to provide music to the room.
It can be hard, with most of the group in formalwear, to see if anyone sticks out.
Know Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { At one of the roulette tables, a man that seems to be the owner remains deep in conversation with what appear to be a couple of ogres.}
Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { You spot the necklace of one of the patrons, because it's distinctive. It's the necklace Musetta stole when you first met her, and apparently returned to its owner. }
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 d20+5=20 ; Thursday May 26th, 2022 10:37:52 PM
[Ooc] Perception 20. No reason to bother anyone, but I will point it out.
I'm nervous that they didn't take our weapons. I almost would have preferred it. An assault with a poisoned dagger will put all of the regulars on edge. If they weren't bringing weapons before, they defiantly will tonight. Some of them might be so zealously self-defensive they will pre-emptively pick a fight, probably with a group of armed newcomers like us. There's no pay in a random bar room brawl with swords, so if ever we can talk our way out of a fight, this might be the one. I'm going to find a corner to brood in and sip an ale. Make eye contact if you think a conversation is going south.
Also, if blood starts gushing and heads start rolling, that lady over there has the pendant Musetta stole when we met her. Might make a fun gift if we ever see her again.
Grothic is the kind of guy that you can't tell if he's joking.
Muuru speaks quietly. We need to find out who the dagger-boy was. If the patrons and staff don't know, we should ask the victim. At least he got a good look at guy.
By the way: see that fellow at that roulette table? Talking to the two ogres? Pretty sure he's the owner. The big ones don't seem to be guards -- can anyone tell what they're talking about?
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 d20+3=15 ; Friday May 27th, 2022 12:06:12 AM Myre assumes Grothic is not joking and makes a mental note to swipe the necklace from the woman's headless corpse should the opportunity present itself.
"That's twice we've over-planned for a simple task. We should stop doing that." She looks around. "So, we're supposed to handle this indiscretion, but the owner and the patrons 'don't know anything'." She makes little air quotes to punctuate her point. It's a dreadful habit she'll never grow out of. "That leaves the staff...and maybe the patrons' help if they brought any? Keep an eye out for a valet." She spends no time considering if the cliental of this place would have such a thing. "I'm going to go with the obvious and start with the man mixing everyone's cocktails."
She walks with purpose towards the bar...there is a bar, right? Surely there's a bar. She walks to it. With purpose. "Excuse me," she starts. "We've been brought in to simultaneously look into last night's fun and not bother the patrons or owners of this...charming establishment. Since I assume you're neither, are you able to tell us anything about what happened? Maybe you know the stabber or the stabbee?" She leans in, conspiratorially. "Maybe there's some dark underbelly your conscious is desperate to tell someone about?" She holds his eyes and nods slowly as she talks. In her head, she's giving the poor man the chance he's been waiting for. Hopefully he doesn't burst into tears or anything.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Friday May 27th, 2022 8:36:17 AM
Rhys enters and holds a position nearer the door where he can observe the situation and hopefully spot anyone positioning themselves to do harm to his companions.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Friday May 27th, 2022 4:56:27 PM
Paige studies the woman Grothic describes as wearing the pendant Musetta swiped. “She must have been one of the first victims of the drow sleep poison then? The cleric feels like she has something in common with the lady. ”I wonder if she has any ideas who might have slipped her a draught the other night? Didn’t seem like it was delivered at the point of a knife, like the last victim!?!”
The half elf will look for an empty table or chairs sufficient to accommodate the party somewhere in the establishment where the might have a good view of the various patrons and staff.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Friday May 27th, 2022 11:50:15 PM
Keeping an eye out for trouble, Muuru goes to speak to the bouncer. [b]You said the owners and patrons don't know anything. What about you? Did you see it? I assume you don't know the ruffian or the victim, but can you describe them? Are the in here often?
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=20 ; Saturday May 28th, 2022 7:27:13 PM
(OOC Perception = 20; Kwarsk spots the necklace Musetta stole, and tucks that knowledge away for safekeeping.)
As Grothic heads to a corner to sip his ale, Kwarsk notices Nintos just standing around making an unintentional spectacle of himself. Kwarsk goes over to Nintos and begins gently guiding him toward the bar, "come on friend, let me buy you some white gold." Once at the bar, Kwarsk orders two milks, (and steam will exit his ears if the barkeep says they don't have milk) and then Kwarsk will keep a lookout in the immediate vicinity of Nintos to ensure he doesn't daydream himself into an envenomed dagger between the shoulderblades...
DM Melvin Sunday May 29th, 2022 9:49:24 PM
Grothic notes that this might be a fight, though the various guards and bouncers would seem to mollify that.
Fingers notes the nearby owner, currently wrapping up his conversation with a smile and a rather large cigar.
Grothic half considers restealing the necklace, and Myre makes a note of it.
Rhys enters but spends some time keeping an eye out for trouble. Nearby, Fingers takes some time to talk to the bouncer.
"Hey, I didn't see nothing, and I aint going to say I saw nothing. We are a prideful family establishment here, and absolutely shocked at such violence."
Myre makes her way to the bartender, asking for some information. Despite some decent diplomacy, the bartender basically remains mum... until he overhears Paige speculating the woman with the necklace is "the victim" and the 'dark underbelly of his subconscious' lets out a snort of derision.
"Ok, fine, that was funny. Victim of the poison. Hey, not saying anything, except that the gal has an airtight alibi of not being anywhere near those market robberies or poisoner guild members... unless you can prove some link to her being nearby. Victim, that's a good one."
The bartender made a good show of shaking his tip jar, and a remark about their consciences. A couple of the other patrons do seem to be eyeing Myre in particular.
At which point Kwarsk and Nintos go up to the bar and asks for some milk. To this day, the musicians refuse to indicate how they copied a record scratch into silence, not knowing what a record is. A couple of patrons glance at hiding places behind tables.
After a glance at the owner, and a touch of searching, the bartender manages to give Kwarsk a glass of what might be a mix of milk and cream. "You're lucky the boss likes himself the occasional White Asildur."
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Monday May 30th, 2022 12:31:27 AM "Why's he shaking his tip jar? He hasn't even served me OH he wants a bribe." That's fine by Myre, but she's unsure of what a good bribe would be. Too much and she's a chump. Too little and he's insulted. She gets an idea that she hopes is a good one.
"Hmm. You know, we were encouraged to come in here and 'throw our weight around', but I'm starting to think that would be a bad idea for a whole bunch of reasons. The biggest reason being that you said I was funny." She drops two gold coins in the jar (OOC: if the amount of coin in the jar indicates that's a small "tip", she'll increase it within reason). "That and because everyone's being so very accommodating and we don't want to be jerks. Anyway, I like it when people call me funny. I assume that's why everyone's looking at me, right?" She looks back at those eyeing her. "Because I'm funny? No? Maybe you could help fill in some blanks, then?"
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+1=5 ; Monday May 30th, 2022 6:06:24 PM
As the bartender shakes the tip jar, Paige wonders why? He jumped into a conversation to which he wasn’t invited, and was rude to boot!
The red head tries to look stern (Intimidate = 5) but comes across looking more like a schoolmarm, if there is such a thing in Plateau City. ”I’ll have what they’re having” she says, nodding at the dwarf and the middle aged human, ”as well as anything you do know about the ‘attacks.”
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 d20+3=16 ; Monday May 30th, 2022 8:44:44 PM
Rhys maintains his position and remains alert to the goings on in the Crypt. (Perception 16).
DM Melvin Monday May 30th, 2022 8:45:07 PM
For a long time, the bartender stared at the women unable to take a hint. His sigh could be heard in the halfling villages and was promptly ignored.
"The woman over there is involved with the poisoner's guild," the bartender said slowly, just in case. "The fact that her necklace got stolen at the scene of the crime when she claimed to be somewhere else proves she's involved. She presumably would have worn her "I did it" sign if it didn't clash with her shoes. Please talk to her because that means you'll stop talking to me."
The next 10 sentences out of his mouth concerned his feelings on tourism.
(OOC: My feelings on this are not the bartender's and I hope this isn't too mean. But I was pretty sure I was clear the last time.)
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=11 ; Monday May 30th, 2022 9:13:08 PM
Kwarsk continues to keep one eye on Nintos' back and the other scanning from place to place.
(OOC Perception = 11)
Kwarsk finally takes a swig of his White Asildur.
If (1) it truly is milk and cream, Kwarsk is smitten by it and it becomes his new favorite drink at the Crypt. Else if (2) Kwarsk instead notes the telltale heft of alcohol, he grimaces, swallows the one swig, turns to the bartender and says, " Barkeep, I said milk, not booze!"
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Monday May 30th, 2022 11:12:57 PM
OOC: No offense taken. I was pretty bleary-eyed when I was trying to post.
Myre scratches her head. "Guess I'm just used to people being blunt instead of dancing around with their words." She reports back to her friends what she's learned. It's probably a bad idea to just walk over there alone.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Tuesday May 31st, 2022 1:19:34 AM
[OOC: I'll be busy all of Tuesday, so in advance: when we decide to talk to the woman, Fingers recommends that we approach from opposite sides in case she starts to run or target a spell or sometihng. If he can't everyone to do this in an organized manner, he will at least try to be a few squares "behind" her as the others approach her from the front]
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 Tuesday May 31st, 2022 7:34:23 AM
Grothic sips his ale.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Tuesday May 31st, 2022 10:56:19 AM
Earlier (see Friday’s post) Paige had looked for a table with sufficient seats to accommodate her and her friends. She scans the room again to see if there is anyone seated with the woman wearing the pendant, or if there is an open table near the woman. Quaffing a potion* the cleric then chases it with a sip from the drink provided by the bartender.
After dropping a few coins in the tip jar, the red-headed half elf nudges Myre and asks: “do you think she would mind sharing her table? Methinks she might like the company of other womenfolk.”
* Antitoxin
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Tuesday May 31st, 2022 10:34:22 PM
Rhys continues his vigil.
DM Melvin Wednesday June 1st, 2022 9:45:35 AM
Kwarsk makes it pretty clear that he's a dwarf that doesn't like the alcohol, but notes that it is truly just milk and cream.
After the bartender's blunt remarks, the group begins to make plans. Myre figures that they should move as a group. Fingers suggests that they try to surround her. Grothic continues his drink.
Paige looks to see if she's sitting down, and notes that she seems to be milling around, working the room. You should be able to get her more or less alone, if not completely private.
Rhys continues to keep an eye on the group.
Nintos continues to stare into space.
The woman kind of glances at a couple of you wearily but continues to do what she's doing. Some of the other people around the bar also seem to be getting suspicious in general.
At a key moment, the woman begins to cross the room towards the boss, moving past the bar, not talking to anyone.
Sheriff Harley (Kim) Wednesday June 1st, 2022 1:22:50 PM
[Request: Can someone step up and sub for Carl / Myre this week? - Sheriff H]
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 d20+5=14 ; Wednesday June 1st, 2022 1:52:12 PM
Grothic scans for danger. Perception 15.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Wednesday June 1st, 2022 4:33:33 PM
With her drink in one hand, Paige links arms with Myre and weaves through the patrons on a course that will position them both by the boss just as the woman reaches him. ”Did I ever tell you about the time I killed a giant spider?” she says, winking at the dark skinned magiker.
Myre (Carla temp sub for Carl) - AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP 12/12 d20=18 ; Wednesday June 1st, 2022 4:42:30 PM
Myre listens to Paige with half an ear, with the other ear and a half she listens to how the woman with the pendant and the boss greet each other. (Sense Motive = 18)
(OOC: I’ll sub for Carl for the rest of the week - Carla)
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Wednesday June 1st, 2022 10:06:44 PM
Rhys senses a growing agitation among the patrons of the Crypt and mentally prepares himself for trouble.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Thursday June 2nd, 2022 5:52:28 PM
Muuru casually moves to be (if possible) no more than 15 feet from the woman, the boss, and Myre and Paige. He palms a vial of antitoxin from his belt pouch.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 Thursday June 2nd, 2022 6:56:22 PM
Grothic is standing against a wall, hopefully avoiding chit chat.
DM Melvin Thursday June 2nd, 2022 8:50:02 PM
The team springs into action.
While Grothic scans for danger, Paige and Myre decide to listen in and follow her, hoping to listen to her conversation with the boss.
And maybe if it was just the two, some stealth and bluffing would pull this off. But it doesn't take long before she starts to scan the room, Rhys preparing for a fight, Fingers trying to stay close, Grothic against the wall, Kwarsk and Nintos still hanging at the bar...
It doesn't take long for her to move back towards Myre and Paige, staring straight into their eyes.
"You have gotten my attention," she tells them. "What is it that you want?"
Myre (Carla temp sub for Carl) - AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP 12/12 Thursday June 2nd, 2022 10:29:10 PM
Myre looks down, and finds Waddles looking at her. She unlinks her arm from that of the cleric, and guides the floating pig out of sight behind her. Tilting her head to one side, she looks up at the woman addressing her, and says: ”We are here to look into last nights events..are you able to tell us anything about what happened? Anything about the individual stabbed? The one doing the stabbing?”
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+8=27 ; Thursday June 2nd, 2022 10:36:38 PM
Paige looks right back at the woman (Sense Motive = 27), and awaits her responses to Myre’s questions.
DM Melvin Friday June 3rd, 2022 9:16:19 PM
The woman glances back towards the bar, at a half orc sitting next to Grothic. In hindsight, he's dressed like he's trying to look like an alley backstabber.
"I have no idea what you are possibly talking about," the woman rasps unconvincingly. "Surely, you don't think I know exactly who stabbed someone outside, and who might have enough info to make a deal? How ridiculous."
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 Friday June 3rd, 2022 11:09:20 PM
Grothic let his mind wander and has lost track of his companions.
Sticks, now where did everyone go?
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Friday June 3rd, 2022 11:47:17 PM
Paige turns her head and looks in the same direction as the woman with the raspy voice. She tries to catch Grothic’s eye, and then with eyebrows raised, nods her head sideways a few times in the direction of the half-orc sitting beside him.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=20 ; Saturday June 4th, 2022 1:15:03 AM
Kwarsk has been talking to Nintos, who seems absorbed in his own troubles, but eventually Kwarsk realizes Nintos is just going to be mopey for a while and looks around.
Kwarsk looks around to account for all of his companions, and seeing Paige and Myre near another woman, Kwarsk then scans the room to see if the woman has any associates moving into position to ambush Paige and Myre. (OOC - Perception = 20)
(OOC sorry for missing 3 posts, real life got busy for a bit)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20=2 ; d20=18 ; d20=8 ; Saturday June 4th, 2022 1:15:41 AM
Muuru approaches the half-orc and taps him on the shoulder.
Hey. The boss needs to talk to you. Come with me. I hope he doesn't notice that I didn't say his boss.
If by chance he goes along willingly, Muuru will lead him out the front door, signaling the others (or at least Grothic and Kwarsk) to follow. We'll question him there.
Myre (Carla temp sub for Carl) - AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP 12/12 Monday June 6th, 2022 3:32:15 PM ”I think I’ll hang out with you” says Myre, addressing the woman with the rasping voice. Bringing her head to neutral, then tilting it to the other side, she fixes a quizzical look on the woman and asks: ”I heard you lost that pendant earlier and it’s just been returned. It’s quite intriguing. Does it have a story? And by the way, have you ever shopped at The Pumpkin Patch?”.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Monday June 6th, 2022 3:56:18 PM Myre keeps her face calm, not letting on that she thinks this woman is a very bad liar...which is odd. Usually people who appear rich are excellent liars. Myre's not sure there are many ways for a truthful person to get rich, other than adventuring (maybe).
***
OOC: Many thanks to Carla for subbing for me. I'm ready to take back over now.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Monday June 6th, 2022 4:02:18 PM
Unless otherwise signalled by one of his compatriots, Rhys maintains his watch over the patrons of the Crypt, alert to anyone or any group trying to encircle his friends.
DM Melvin Monday June 6th, 2022 8:48:27 PM
Grothic tries to figure out where everyone went.
Paige tries to signal Grothic to look at the thug next to him.
Kwarsk gets tired of Nintos' silence, and moves to guard along with Rhys.
Fingers tries to get the half orc to follow him but his untrained bluffs (both to him and secret messages) doesn't get him anywhere.
Myre decides to ask about the necklace. "I know what this is about, and I don't like it. Just so we're clear, I was in the poor areas and near the street fair, sure. Just doing my part to keep an eye on the tourism for my politician husband... but yes, being in such uncouth locations could cause a bit of a scandal, so I did have to lie. And now, I expect that I can rely upon your discretion."
(Myre's sense motive doesn't pick up any lies.)
The thug eyed up the situation carefully. "I'm fine staying where I am. You guys constables? You gotta tell me if you're constables."
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 d20+5=12 ; Monday June 6th, 2022 8:52:14 PM
Grothic looks at the thug next to him, with prejudice. Perception 12
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Monday June 6th, 2022 9:10:31 PM
Standing next to Myre, Paige looks at the woman, then at the ‘boss’, then back at the woman, and asks: “is he your politician husband?” She hooks a thumb over her shoulder in the direction of the individual the woman seemed intent on joining up with earlier.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=13 ; Monday June 6th, 2022 9:56:46 PM
Kwarsk notes Grothic staring at a particular thug, and thus Kwarsk turns his attention to Myre and the woman having the conversation, thinking Grothic can handle a thug... if the woman is hiding magic or a poisoned dagger or something, I'd best be ready to move between her and Paige...
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Monday June 6th, 2022 9:57:31 PM
(OOC forgot to add the roll was for perception to watch the woman; DM Melvin, totally ok to slurp this post onto the end of my first post, if you would kindly make the edit)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Monday June 6th, 2022 11:42:30 PM Constables? No. We work for the Cathedral. And if you're not ready to talk to our boss, Clarisse...Grothic?
Muuru grasps the thug by the arm, and signals Grothic to grasp the other.
...Then we're empowered to hear your confession.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Tuesday June 7th, 2022 1:47:10 PM Myre doesn't think she's lying, but she'll wait to see what Paige says about that. "We have tried, and failed, several times to be discrete since we took this job." She waves her left arm around the room. "We've decided it is not for us." Then, Muuru grabs a dude. "Yes. Discretion time is over." She looks to Paige, wanting her opinion on this woman's truthiness.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 d20+8=18 ; Tuesday June 7th, 2022 4:29:30 PM
Sense Motive = 18 on the woman
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 d20+3=21 ; Tuesday June 7th, 2022 5:54:12 PM
Rhys watches as Fingers and Grothic move in on the Half-Orc and he edges in towards them in readiness. He tries to keep his eyes on the location of the Boss/ Owner of the Crypt as he slowly moves through the patrons. (Perception 21)
DM Melvin Tuesday June 7th, 2022 9:06:37 PM
Posts cleared out, everything should be fine.
DM Melvin Tuesday June 7th, 2022 9:11:42 PM
Grothic looks at the thug with prejudice. But it's nothing compared to the prejudice the mysterious woman shows at the very idea of Paige that this THUG could be her husband.
Kwarsk keeps an eye out for any attacks but aside from some minor attempts to move away, but nobody really moves. Not even when Fingers grabs the guy. Myre decides that discretion won't be part of the job. Rhys keeps an eye on the boss.
Indeed, various figures do begin to move, including the boss. The mysterious woman disappears in the crowd.
The thug, however, seems to surrender and go limp. "Ok, ok, you got me, and I'm willing to come with you and answer some questions... if you keep the constables from taking me. They're really itching to take me in, and I think they're on to me anyway, so lets see if you can get me out of this."
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=13 ; Tuesday June 7th, 2022 9:17:18 PM
Kwarsk guesses that everyone except the boss is likely to attack first, and continues to watch for a fight breaking out (OOC Perception = 13), in which case Kwarsk will move, if possible, to interpose between the most vulnerable of his comrades and whoever is attacking them (OOC Move and Ready a Move to prevent any assailant from meleeing Kwarsk's charge).
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 d20+5=6 ; Tuesday June 7th, 2022 10:19:54 PM
Grothic checks the thug for weapons.
Nat 1 on Perception
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20+2=19 ; d20+5=15 ; Tuesday June 7th, 2022 11:15:25 PM
[OOC: I didn't think about searching the thug until Jon mentioned it, so I'll leave it up to an Int check: 19. If that means it occurs to Muuru to search the guy, his Perception is 15 (or 16 if the guy has a booby trap on him).]
Muuru, a little surprised that the thug is willing, nods at him appreciatively and leads him out the front door.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/1 d20+2=22 ; d20+1=17 ; Wednesday June 8th, 2022 1:15:50 PM ”Wait!” calls Paige as the woman misunderstands (OOC: Paige referred to the boss - not the thug) and makes a grab for her wrist (Grapple = nat. 20, for 22), adding ”why the hurry?” (Intimidate = 17)
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Wednesday June 8th, 2022 4:15:28 PM
Did...did that woman just melt into the crowd and vanish while Myre was talking to her? Now THAT is some serious discretion.
She sees Paige make a grab for her and immediately gains respect for her new friend. If Paige manages to grab her, she'll give her a genuine "not bad!" nod, then continue. "I think this one considers herself above the law...well, above the non-deputized special investigators anyway. The thing about lying, you see, is that it makes it hard to just believe your whole 'I didn't kill anybody' story."
Somewhere in the back of her mind, she wonders if grabbing a mob boss' wife like this will cause some kind of ruckus. It seems pretty ruckus-inducing, but Myre thinks a little ruckus would be ok right now.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Wednesday June 8th, 2022 6:59:21 PM
Rhys does his best to keep an eye on the movements of the boss while also saying in close enough contact with his comrades to intercede should a scuffle break out.
DM Melvin Wednesday June 8th, 2022 8:44:52 PM
Kwarsk and Rhys prepare for a fight but it never comes. Grothic tries to check for weapons (Nat 1 means nothing for a skills check) but doesn't see anything.
Muuru begins to lead the thug out the front door, after searching him for anything funny, but he's able to start leading the guy out without incident.
Paige makes a really good grapple attempt but the crowd is too thick, and she is gone. Myre, impressed, notes correctly that continuing this might lead to a ruckus.
At any event, it's pretty clear that it's the thug you want, at least for now. In fact, he's actually pretty friendly and talkative for a thug, already admitting to the stabbing, and promising to tell you where Jason is... if you get him out of this.
Up ahead, you can see the constabulary entering the bar, and they clearly haven't seen you. Which means a lot of options, including discretion or talking, might still work.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/1 Wednesday June 8th, 2022 9:15:31 PM
Eyeing the constabulary that have entered the bar, Paige announces ”this place is getting too crowded for my liking.” The cleric downs the last of her drink, and sets the mug on a nearby table. Pulling her cloak close, she makes her way towards the front door with the intention of exiting the establishment.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 d20+2=22 ; Wednesday June 8th, 2022 11:47:36 PM
Muuru, seeing the constables, does his best to maneuver his size-L body between them and the thug so they can't see him clearly. (Stealth: 22)
I'm sure our new friend is looking at the floor, rubbing his forehead, etc. to obscure his features.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 d20-1=2 ; Thursday June 9th, 2022 4:03:50 PM
Rhys wanders over towards the guards as they enter the Crypt, hoping to spot Bersi, the guard that had originally captured Musetta. If Bersi is among the constabulary, Rhys will spend some time explaining that a woman was seen wearing the exact necklace that had been recently stolen. Otherwise he will do his best to distract the guards away from Fingers and the thug and towards the least place he has seen the boss of the Crypt. ”He went over there in that direction. He was talking with this suspicious lady wearing a necklace that had been stolen just the other day…said she was a politicians wife…what would a lady of high position be doing down here in this part of town?”
(Bluff or Performance = 2. Ugh!)
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 d20-1=2 ; Thursday June 9th, 2022 4:03:50 PM
Rhys wanders over towards the guards as they enter the Crypt, hoping to spot Bersi, the guard that had originally captured Musetta. If Bersi is among the constabulary, Rhys will spend some time explaining that a woman was seen wearing the exact necklace that had been recently stolen. Otherwise he will do his best to distract the guards away from Fingers and the thug and towards the least place he has seen the boss of the Crypt. ”He went over there in that direction. He was talking with this suspicious lady wearing a necklace that had been stolen just the other day…said she was a politicians wife…what would a lady of high position be doing down here in this part of town?”
(Bluff or Performance = 2. Ugh!)
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 Thursday June 9th, 2022 7:10:56 PM
Grothic keeps his hand on the thug he searched. It wouldn't do to lose anything important.
DM Melvin Thursday June 9th, 2022 9:14:50 PM
Rhys almost blows it, but thanks to Fingers' large size, getting him out of the bar is quite easy.
"Well, thanks a lot to you all, and I guess I'll be seeing you around the..."
Grothic keeps his hand on the thug.
"Er... I mean that I was just about to tell ya how I was set up. How was I supposed to know the punk had a bunch of black cathedral robes this Jason guy wanted?"
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/1 Thursday June 9th, 2022 10:24:03 PM
Once Paige gets outside the Crypt she looks around to see if all her companions have made it outside as well. She overhears the half orc ‘thug’ mention the name ‘Jason’. “Wasn’t he the fella over at the Hollow Pit? The one who gave us the vial of drow sleep poison? she asks, looking around at her friends in surprise.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. Thursday June 9th, 2022 10:57:59 PM
Kwarsk casually strolls out, not in a particularly straight line for the door. Kwarsk's intent is to bring up the rear as the group leaves.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Thursday June 9th, 2022 11:05:52 PM Myre nods. "He's the boring guy who liked plants. JAYson, Son of Jay." She turns to the thug. "We found him easily enough. Maybe you want to tell us why you thought we'd want to know? That seems much more interesting to me."
She ponders. Is it possible the dude responsible for all this was one of the first people they talked to? That they thanked him and walked away even after he freely gave them a vial of the very poison they're supposed to be investigating? Boy, that would not be a good look.
"Or maybe Jay has many sons," she thinks aloud suddenly. She looks down and finds herself stroking Waddles. "Yes, you're right. That does seem like too much of a coincidence." She frowns.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Thursday June 9th, 2022 11:50:41 PM
[ooc: We've only been doing this investigation for a short time, but in real life it's been long enough that I'm a little lost. I know some guy stabbed some other guy with a sleepy drug. One of them was the thug, and the other had some black cathedral robes, is that it?
And do we think the necklace lady is involved in anything criminal, or is she just trying to keep a low profile in this seedy part of town?]
[In any case, Muuru suggests that someone send a message to the Cathedral right away that someone may be impersonating their priests. Tell them to have their members carry some incontrovertible identification on them at all times.
Since the guards are here at the Crypt, we should tell them about the stolen robes. If a "priest" is seen doing something unpriestly, it's best that everyone knows NOW that he could be an imposter.]
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Friday June 10th, 2022 10:18:48 AM
OOC: Oh thank glob. I thought I was just the slow one.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Friday June 10th, 2022 6:21:10 PM
Rhys brings up the rear, taking an extra moment leaving the Crypt to ensure the guards take no additional interest in the rest of the party and their new informant. Once outside and away from the guard, he listens in on the thugs remarks. ”Sounds like you have an interesting tale to tell.” he encourages.
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 June 10th, 2022 9:23:54 PM
[ooc]I apologize for the MIA following my vacation. That was just irresponsible on my end. But I’m back.[ooc]
Nintos sees the group leaving the Crypt and falls in line next to Rhys; “Sorry for the hang up Lucky for me, Merletta is a good enough scout and tracker.” He says as he nots up to the raven flying overhead.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Friday June 10th, 2022 11:58:06 PM
[Waiting for the thug to tell us his interesting tale. And for the party members to respond to my ideas about alerting the Cathedral and the nearby guards.]
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/1 Saturday June 11th, 2022 9:51:55 AM ”Please elaborate” Paige responds to the ‘thug’ in Grothic’s grasp.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 d20+5=12 ; Sunday June 12th, 2022 7:22:31 PM
Grothic gives the thug a grin.
My friend referring to Carla is trying to have a conversation with you. It would be rude to ignore polite conversation.
12 Intimidate
A job Well Done
Questions and Answers DM BrianZ Sunday June 12th, 2022 10:01:58 PM
The constables look around a bit, but after checking in with security, they decide to leave well enough alone. The Crypt does too much business, and has too many VIP clientele for the constables to cause any kind of ruckus with out extremely good reason.
The woman seems relieved that you are leaving her alone, and returns to her gambling. Hopefully her important husband won't be too upset at the money she is leaving on the tables.
Leaving the hustle and bustle of the busy gaming hall behind, the team has the thug outside. Security gave no issue as you take him out. Apparently he was drawing the wrong kind of attention and they were glad to see him leave. The thug looks around is perhaps not completely intimidated, but seems to realize the position he is in. Look, just don't kill me, I'll tell you whatever you want to know.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 3 Monday June 13th, 2022 12:19:24 PM Myre smiles. "This one has a good attitude. I say we don't kill him...provided he tells us everything he knows about who's behind this poison that's going around."
*I don't remember. Did we move him somewhere safe, or are we having this conversation in the middle of the street? We should move him if we are.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/1 d20+1=20 ; Monday June 13th, 2022 1:36:55 PM
Paige gets in the half orc thug’s face (Intimidate = 20) and gives him a hard look, followed by a poke in the chest with her finger as she picks up where Myre left off. ”Names. Locations. What’s really going on?
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 Monday June 13th, 2022 2:09:35 PM
Hearing the start of the conversation; “Maybe we should move this conversation to the store” Looking around and whispers; “Before we gain unwanted attention…” Nintos is clearly speaking of the pumpkin patch where we had the run in with the centipedes.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Monday June 13th, 2022 6:42:07 PM
Depending on the detail provided by the thug in his recounting of the activities of the Poisoner’s Guild, Rhys will ask for elaboration on Jason’s role, the name of the lady in the bar and her activities, the connection of the guild to the Sharas Tel and the Drow, and what the long term objectives of the guild are.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 14/14, CMD 15. d20+3=14 ; Monday June 13th, 2022 9:51:27 PM
As Kwarsk exits the gaming hall, he sees Paige begin to interrogate the thug in broad daylight. Kwarsk looks around to see which direction the most bystanders are in, if any, and moves between Paige/thug and the largest amount of bystanders, using his Tower Shield (OOC total cover) to at least block the bystanders' view of the interrogation, and then in a low voice to Paige, "Friend, I think we should take this questioning on the go -- let's all walk, and you two talk."
Kwarsk then looks this way and that to find the way away from the gaming hall with the fewest bystanders along the path, and then gestures to Paige and the thug in that direction.
Questions and Answers DM BrianZ Monday June 13th, 2022 10:07:34 PM
The team is able to find a moderately secluded nearby alley. The thug loses the rest of his resolve now that he is running out of room to run.
Ok, so, there's this Jason guy and some other guy who run this guild. They needed some time, so they sent me over here to cause a distraction.
I didn't stab that guy that hard, just sliced his arm a little. That's all that was needed for the poison to work. Then I hit him with it again so it would take full effect. Of course by dumb chance it was a contact for Jason. Not sure what they were going to use him for.
They're back there, getting ready for you. They figure you'll be back so they set a trap. You know the place, where you fought the other alchemist.
They figure with you out of the way, they'll be able to start producing a lot more of this stuff, and start shipping it to cities all over the Wold. They don't quite have the formula all the way fixed. I heard them say maybe it doesn't work right on the surface or in the sunlight. But it works good enough. They can make a lot of money and cause people a lot of problems along the way.
Umm, the lady? Oh I think she was just some sort of coincidence. Never waste an opportunity eh?
The drow? I never saw any. They were mentioned a couple times, but I don't know if they were working for them or if it was just a coincidence.
Umm, I think that's it. Can I go now? I need to get out of the City. If you win, well, you'll never see me again. If they win, they'll try to kill me. Either way, I need to leave.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Monday June 13th, 2022 11:34:03 PM Sure, pal. Thanks a lot.
To the team: Okay, trap. Probably an ambush, maybe some practical traps too. We need to scout that place -- starting with Merletta, I suggest. Then I can look around the perimeter for tripwires and whatnot.
[b]We should head there right away. Maybe we can get there before they're finished setting up. If anyone in a Cathedral robe approaches you -- play along, but be suspicious.
And keep an eye on their hands.
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 June 14th, 2022 9:49:03 AM “Merletta can give us a general top down view of the place. See if anyone is watching from the rooftops.” When Nintos hears Fingers say We should head there right away. he nods in agreement; “As much as I’d love to have prepared different spells, I believe that getting the jump on them and catching them not fully fortified would give us the upper hand.”
Once we are away from prying ears and able to plot a plan:
Tapping the scroll case at his hip; “If we want to come at them from two directions, I can cause a distraction that might pull eyes towards a separate entrance.” smiling; “Obscuring Mist.”
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 4 Tuesday June 14th, 2022 11:32:27 AM Myre smiles sweetly and puts her hand on the nameless thug's shoulder, easily sliding into the role of good-cop to Paige's unexpectedly strong bad-cop.
"Thank you. You've done the right thing. Feels good to do the right thing, doesn't it? You should remember that in whatever life you make for yourself after you flee...which you should probably do now if there's nothing else you can think of. We'll take care of Jay's son." At least, she sure hopes they will. She (assumedly) watches the thug take off, hoping Paige would pick up on it if he was fooling them.
"Yes, let's go now. If we find a group of them together, I can take them out if I can get close enough. Oh, and try not to get between me and the bad guys. It really limits what I can do in a fight." She smiles, but she's holding Waddles tighter than usual. Seems she's nervous about this.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 16/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 9/12 Tuesday June 14th, 2022 12:09:22 PM
Rhys effortlessly slides a curved elven dagger from beneath its cloak and angles the blade to glint into the thugs face, just inches away. ”Enough of this, I asked the name of the lady! There are far too many coincidences here! You will give me her name!”. Only when the thug has answered to his satisfaction will he allow him to go.
Once he has his name or is otherwise duly satisfied that the thug has answered with all he knows, Rhys will join the discussion about reentering the Pumpkin Patch. “We should use up the antitoxins we have left just before entering…and one of us should use the same invisibility potion to get closer to Jason, if we can take him down, the rest of the fight may be easier!”.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/1 d20+1=4 ; Tuesday June 14th, 2022 3:08:22 PM ”Not so fast” Paige growls whilst taking up a position along with Myre and Rhys blocking the thug’s escape. ”The bartender distinctly implicated this ‘politician’s wife’ as being involved with the Poisoners’ Guild*, and we want her name and the name of her husband, while you’re at it!”
*see DM post 30 May, 2022
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/1 Tuesday June 14th, 2022 3:27:15 PM
Once satisfied that the thug has shared all he knows, Paige is in accord with the party with regards to returning to the Pumpkin Patch.
Questions and Answers DM BrianZ Tuesday June 14th, 2022 9:05:33 PM
The thug is very rattled at this point. The woman? I don't know any woman. I guess you'll have to ask the bartender about that. The guild had dealings with lots of people. Some of it even legitimate business. Kept the guards from looking too close at some of the supplies they had shipped in. So maybe she helped them, or maybe just thought it was a good story to tell her rich friends that she bought some weird stuff in the weird part of town.
The team seems ready to charge back into the den of the guild, but it seems that preparations are in order. This doesn't appear to be the time for a quick attack, when they may be ready for you.
OOC- For those that missed it in the email, you may level up your characters. Any questions, please ask.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15. Tuesday June 14th, 2022 10:52:23 PM
[OOC: Added one level of MONK. Yes this is intentional. Yes Kwarsk is staying armored and shielded and not using the Monk AC bonus unless we have to enter somewhere armor is banned.]
Kwarsk says, "friends, we could let him go, or maybe let our patron ask him some questions too. I think now is the wrong time to return to the gaming hall. What say you all?"
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Tuesday June 14th, 2022 11:37:24 PM You're right. Let the guy go, and let's hurry to the Pumpkin Patch.
. Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 12, HP 11/11 Wednesday June 15th, 2022 4:15:57 PM Sure, let him go adds the half elf, echoing her companions. Paige turns to say something to Rhys but a sudden feeling of fullness in her chest has her grasping for the holy symbol that hangs from a cord about her neck. The cleric’s eyes go wide as a bright light sears her brain, burning away dark thoughts, doubt, and confusion - leaving her with a sensation of warmth about her heart and soul.
”Domi?” she whispers…
(Paige just acquired 8 additional HP pending DM approval of my d8 roll in The LnB!)
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 Wednesday June 15th, 2022 4:18:25 PM
Grothic pulls five gold pieces out of his belt pouch and hands it to the thug.
Out of politeness, I will say that this is for your time and discomfort, but to be clear, we value information and reward those who share it with us.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 20/20 Wednesday June 15th, 2022 6:29:32 PM
Rhys slides the wicked looking dagger back into its concealed sheath and releases the thug. ”Its best you leave the city now…before what comes next. If I see you again, I will have no choice but to believe you have conspired against us.”
Once the thug has departed with Grothic’s hard earned coin Rhys addresses his compatriots. [b]”Before we simply barge into the trap that awaits us we should have a plan. We should be protected by antitoxins at the very least. Should we go in from the front? The back? Or both? Should one of us be invisible to sneak up on the primary target? Is that Jason or someone else?
(OOC. Character sheet has been updated to Fighter2)
Questions and Answers DM BrianZ Wednesday June 15th, 2022 8:12:28 PM
The thug nods his thanks at Grothic and Rhys. Just so you know, I hope you win.
With that, he departs quickly. The team spends a few moments considering what they have learned through this investigation, then begin making some plans.
OOC- LnB rolls are considered approved as soon as they are rolled. As a reminder, you should list each roll separately on your sheet by the hp area, along with the total.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 12 HP: 12/12 Spell Slots Remaining: 4 Wednesday June 15th, 2022 9:40:24 PM
OOC: Obviously Myre waits until Paige and Rhys are done interrogating the thug before she says her bit.
***
It hits Myre like a thunderbolt. "Hey guys, why are we thinking of walking in alone when there's a known trap? Weren't we hired by folks who could help? Wouldn't it make more sense to get that help and surround the place?"
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 13/13 | CMB:3 CMD:15 | Fort:2 Ref:4 Will:0 Wednesday June 15th, 2022 11:22:07 PM It would, says Muuru, but as always, time is of the essence. If those constables are still nearby, or we meet any on the way to the Patch, we can ask them to watch the building and grab anyone who runs out. But I don't think we should take the time to report back to the Cathedral.
Rhys is right: everyone drink an antitoxin. Merletta looks for lookouts, I search the perimeter for traps -- does anyone remember how many entrances there are?
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=28 ; d20+4=20 ; Thursday June 16th, 2022 7:38:37 AM
[OOC] Added one level Wizard – Picked up Comprehend Languages & Hold Portal Spell[OOC]
Nintos nods as Fingers says it is time. He whistles and calls Merletta down and tells her what she is to do. Whispering; “If you see anyone on the roof, or looking out of the windows start to feel stressed and overwhelmed. That will be your signal.” Merletta will fly away and look. [Perception: Nat 20! 28 for Merletta]
When Fingers ask does anyone remember how many entrances there are? Nintos thinks to himself, trying to remember the layout of the patch. [ooc]Clint doesn’t remember, but I am sure Nintos would. INT check 20[ooc]
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 22/22 Thursday June 16th, 2022 11:11:27 AM
Paige adds her observations: ”Well, there was the front door, of course - and then a back door that opened onto a courtyard. That’s where I brought the crates containing the poisonous creatures. There was an alley-way behind the court yard, but the whole time I was minding the critters, I never noticed anybody using it.”. *
*May 9th
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: 5 Thursday June 16th, 2022 3:20:00 PM
OOC: Why did my post take hours to appear? That's a bother. Anyway, Myre's sheet is updated.
***
"They'll be expecting us to use the door." She strokes Waddles as she paces around, thinking and talking to herself. "I guess setting the whole building on fire would be a bad idea...right?" She looks around, hoping someone says otherwise.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 20/20 Thursday June 16th, 2022 4:20:24 PM
Rhys gives Myre a wide-eyed glance and quickly agrees ”Yes! A very bad idea indeed. I can only imagine how quickly that might spread to the surrounding buildings.”
The elf gives the problem some for thought before voicing a suggestion. ”They don’t know that we are aware of the trap! If most of us go through the front door as expected we might turn the tables on them by sending someone in by the back door that Paige speaks of…someone using the invisibility potion. He or she might then create some real havoc and cause either a premature triggering of the ambush, or perhaps interfere enough to spoil the ambush altogether.”
Questions and Answers DM BrianZ Thursday June 16th, 2022 8:30:16 PM
A plan seems to be materializing, with suggestions to break the ambush by hitting both ends of the place at once. Who will be positioned and where, remains to be determined. There is also a suggestion of fire, but without the means to control it, that could be a very bad idea.
OOC- I will post the group at the Patch on Sunday, with a full rest in between. If you feel you need more time to plan, please say so. Please try to finish levelups over the weekend, or your character will enter the combat without the extras.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday June 16th, 2022 8:55:47 PM
Kwarsk considers, and says, "I can only be in one place at a time... if we split front and back, would you all prefer I be near the front entrance to provide cover as our main force advances, or instead guard whichever one or two of us are trying to come in the back way? I'll go with majority decision."
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Thursday June 16th, 2022 10:02:20 PM
[OOC: Character sheet updated.]
Muuru pulls his antitoxin from his belt pouch, but fumbles and drops the glass vial. When he tries to catch it, the vial stops in mid-air and returns to his hand. He looks a little startled.
Huh. I haven't practice the Mage Hand in a while -- but that time I wasn't even trying.
Grothic (Jonathan) -- AC 17/13/16 -- CMD 17 -- HP11/13 Thursday June 16th, 2022 10:35:46 PM My friends, I will reiterate that I command no one and I will go along with what the group thinks is best.
That being said, it sounds like we are planning to hit our target from opposite ends. Hopefully we will walk over our enemies again without too much trouble, but what if they are slightly stronger than we are used to or if one of us slips on blood and knocks himself out?
What happens then is one group runs into trouble and the other isn't in a position to help. We fall, one half at a time.
I think we are a new group who have never never trained together and only briefly fought beside each other. The simplest plan might be the best: everyone in through the back door. We hit hard, we hit fast and if we have to bail, grab our wounded and get out.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: 5 Friday June 17th, 2022 1:47:03 PM
Myre sighs. Rhys is right, of course...
"I think I can be useful in the back, especially if we get the drop on a group of them." She thinks. "I don't much like the thought of splitting up. If they've got both doors trapped or guarded or whatever and they're ready on both ends we'll be in trouble.
If we're not gonna get help, then it makes sense to get over there as soon as possible and hit hard." She smacks her fist into the palm of her other hand for emphasis, but then looks around unsure. "Right?"
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 16/16 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:13 CMB:1 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:4 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 Friday June 17th, 2022 4:43:48 PM
Listening to the plan; “If we are allow enough time to prepare an assault, it would outweigh their preparation. Unless they know we are coming…”
Looking to Myre; “If we have someone who could help a small team sneak in the back, it might be valuable. Hang back until the team in the front pulls the attention then sneak in. If I am with the team in the front I could always send Merletta up and over the building to signal the stealthy attack.”
Turning to the rest of the group; “Depending on how we want to strike the front I could always use my magic to try and open the front door. If its locked, it won’t open. But, if it isn’t and it is trapped it should spring the trap.” Shrugging; “But I would be open to suggestions.”
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 22/22 Friday June 17th, 2022 7:06:53 PM ”I’m not quiet, nor good at sneaking, so the Invisibility potion would be wasted on me. Maybe Muuru should use it, or you, Rhys.” Paige then volunteers to be part of the Front Door group, if the party decides to take a pincer approach. ”Though we would be split up, this approach would ensure the bad guys don’t get away”
(Charatet sheet has been updated and is ready for DM review.)
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 20/20 Friday June 17th, 2022 7:15:51 PM
Rhys listens to the others discuss his proposal and awaits some kind consensus to unfold. ”Whether we go in as one group or as two, I would like an antitoxin if there are any to spare.”
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 19 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 16 FF 16 / CMB 6/ Fort 6 Reflex 4 Will Friday June 17th, 2022 11:15:12 PM I've thought of a purpose for splitting up. We've got two unclaimed tanglefoot bags in our possession. The main pack kicks in the door and causes a distraction, giving the person with two tangles an opportunity to immobilize the biggest, toughest looking villain there. While he's tied up, the rest of us try to kill anything out of his reach. Once he looks like he's getting free, the stealth team tanglefoots him again. I know nothing about magic, but don't you have to hurt someone to break invisibility? Keeping their scariest fighter out of the fight for even ten to fifteen seconds might make this go a lot easier and if they're all looking at us, they might not know we have anyone behind them.
[Ooc] Character sheet updated. Took a level in barbarian but the hit point roll could have been a lot better.
Cleaning House
Back to the Patch DM BrianZ Sunday June 19th, 2022 9:29:21 PM
The team is rested and ready for action. The approach to the Patch is still under discussion. A quick scouting reveals the shop is 'closed'. There is no visible activity at the store, but considering the size of the place, there could be a lot going on inside.
Merletta can complete a flyover of the rear courtyard and alleyway, it is also quiet in that area. It may seem to be your imagination, but there is much less activity overall in the area, almost like the locals can 'sense' that something is off. You notice the normal guard patrol activity, but as usual, they steer clear of this area near the Scar as much as possible.
The team, can go in the front again, the rear courtyard area, or split between the two. Please indicate which in the next post. If you are taking any pre-combat potions, or spells, now is the time.
If you need another post to decide on a course of action that is fine. You may use OOC email for this as well if needed.
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 16/16 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:13 CMB:1 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:4 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 Monday June 20th, 2022 1:02:01 PM “I could take one of those tanglefoot bags if it was available. I am a good enough shot to hit someone, but it won’t take away the threat of one of you who is better equipped with a bow. From that point I have plenty of spells to help cover from behind.” Nintos says as he pulls free the extra tanglefoot bags offering the second to anyone who’d take it.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 22/22 Monday June 20th, 2022 4:32:48 PM ”Keep it Nintos, and don’t be afraid to use it, but ‘ware party folks who might be in range when you toss it!” suggests Paige, [/b] as she fishes around in her pouch and pulls out an antitoxin (a full strength one) and hands it to Rhys. Left hand on the elven fighter’s shoulder, and looking into his eyes as she covers her holy symbol with the right, the cleric asks her god to provide [i]Guidance* to her friend.
Paige is excited, and thinks the element of surprise provided by those sneaking in from the back will work to the party’s advantage. She quaffs an antitoxin (one of the ‘mild’ ones Muuru had procured earlier with the 83 gold pieces. ”I wonder if this is Jason’s ‘project’? she jokes, raising an eyebrow. (ref.DM post April 4)
*Guidance cast on Rhys +1 competence bonus on a single attack roll, saving throw, or skill check. Must choose to use bonus before making the roll to which it applies. 1 min or until used.
DM Sanity notes:
Orisons: 1/4 used - detect magic, detect poison, guidance, light Level 1 spells: 0/3 used - Bless, command, Magic weapon, shield of faith Domain spells: 0/1 - Sanctuary
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 20/20 Monday June 20th, 2022 7:01:47 PM
Rhys thanks Paige for the antitoxin and the Guidance she has cast upon him. He turns to Nintos, ”C’mon, we had better get into position and see about getting in through the back. Stay close to the wall and maybe we can get there without incident.”
The elf checks his weapons one last time and heads for the ally. ”I’ll wait a couple of minutes to give you some time to force your way in.” he calls back over his shoulder. Rhys quickly drinks from a small vial as he moves (Elixer of Hiding).
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 19 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 16 FF 16 / CMB 6/ Fort 6 Reflex 4 Will Monday June 20th, 2022 9:08:23 PM
Grothic draws his great sword. There is a spot of blood he never could get cleaned off and he knew it was the blood of his adopted grandfather when he first met the prior owner of this sword. He felt anger welling up in him and shame for using a weapon he associated with everything he hates. He's going to need to replace it.
It's fine if I couldn't convince you not to split up, but I insist we all agree to meet up at the Cathedral if this ends up going badly. Take note of anyone we leave behind dead or dying and do not get followed back the the Pumpkin Patch. First one there set an ambush in case we were followed and wait an hour.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Monday June 20th, 2022 9:13:03 PM
Kwarsk says, "Then it's settled. Good hunting Nintos and Rhys!" Kwarsk coordinates with the others in Team Noisy/Front so that Kwarsk is taking the lead. Kwarsk then pulls a potion from his belt and drinks it just before the order is given to advance forward.
Kwarsk informs all that he'll be moving half speed (Move Action 20' + Total Cover) from the edge of the 'sidewalk' or similar in a straight line towards the front door.
[OOC: Potion of Barkskin (+2 Natural AC, 3 minutes) Potion is drunk just before the start of the advance into combat, whenever that may be.
Also, Kwarsk has:
Stonecunning: Dwarves receive a +2 bonus on Perception checks to potentially notice unusual stonework, such as traps and hidden doors located in stone walls or floors. They receive a check to notice any such features that they pass within 10 feet of, whether or not they are actively looking.
This player imagines some sort of cobblestone street, sidewalk, path to the front door which could have been trapped by our adversaries; Kwarsk will get a Perception roll in that event.]
Back to the Patch DM BrianZ Monday June 20th, 2022 10:34:13 PM
The team splits up, with Paige, Grothic, Kwarsk, and Myre set to tackle the front, and Rhys, Nintos, and Fingers sneak around to the back.
The plan is set and both teams move in.
Perception checks please as you enter the building. Please list active effects in your post. I was having issues with google docs, I will have the map up tomorrow as early as possible. This is your last chance to switch which team you are on, indicate in next post if there is a change.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: 5 d20+4=24 ; d20+2=3 ; Monday June 20th, 2022 11:01:12 PM Myre looks at Grothic, probably thinking the same thing he was.
...but the plan's been made and it looks like she's going in the front. Time for talking is done. If there's enough antitoxin, she'll down a dose as well. She looks down at Waddles as she gets ready to risk her life. "Hush you. Be a brave little pig. There's bad people in there and it's our job to stop'em." She wordlessly puts her friend back into her bag. She keeps her head down and eyes open (perception: 24).
She stays behind Kwarsk, moving slow and staying as quiet as she can...which is not very quiet at all. She catches herself whispering loudly to Waddles, who has somehow made it back out of her pack. She blushes fiercely, shuts up, and puts him back again (stealth: 3). She purses her lips, the trigger word for a daze spell on them.
***
Move: Stay behind Kwarsk Readied action: interrupt any enemy shenanigans with a daze spell (will save DC 14).
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 d20+3=17 ; d20+8=27 ; Monday June 20th, 2022 11:38:54 PM
The healer should be the best-protected, so when Muuru sees Paige start to drink her "light" antitoxin, he tries to block her from doing so, then switch it with the full-strength one he's carrying. (Disarm attack? Sleight of Hand?) After this attempt, he'll drink whichever one he's left holding.
All right, everyone stay back here and be quiet for a few minutes. Sticking to the shadows (Stealth 17), Muuru gets just close enough to the front of the building to look for traps. He spends two minutes searching (Perception, Take 20, Result: 26). He'll also try to peek in the windows without being seen.
If the finds a trap on the front door, what he does depends on what kind of trap it is. (He may want to trigger it as a distraction.)
If Muuru can reach the rear door stealthfully within a minute or two, he'll examine the rear door also. If there's a trap that does not look "complex", he'll disable it. (Disable Device: 27). Also peeks inside windows.
Then he returns to the group.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Monday June 20th, 2022 11:46:48 PM
OOC: Brian, I think I was writing my post when you were posting yours! I've been saying for three days that I wanted to look for traps!
Muuru stays behind the others so as not to block them. Crossbow is loaded (sleepy-poison) and at the ready. A Thunderstone, Tindertwig, and Smokestick are all where he can draw them quickly.
Once inside, he'll try to stand away from the others, to make it harder for *all* of us to be seen (or targeted).
DMBZ- Highlight to display spoiler: {I didn't miss that, I was waiting for that interaction upon the group entering the building. They did not trap the front or back door}
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 d20+5=6 ; Monday June 20th, 2022 11:48:33 PM
PS: As we enter, Perception: 6 (or 7 vs traps, but it's still a natural 1. We're so dead.)
Back to the Patch DM BrianZ Tuesday June 21st, 2022 9:05:09 AM
Fingers checks the front door area, and finds no traps set in that area. There is also no one visible in the foyer.
He then moves into position in the alley, and also does not find any traps on that door. There is no one visible in the courtyard......
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 20/20 d20+4=11 ; d20+12=16 ; Tuesday June 21st, 2022 10:48:37 AM
Rhys scans the courtyard for any movement or signs of a trap (Perception 11). He pays particular attention to the crates of poisonous creatures that he and Paige had previously positioned there. (Are they still there? are they still inhabited? If so are they still securely closed?). Once he has ascertained that nothing is amiss he signals to his companions that he intends to skirt the crates along the edge of the courtyard and make his way towards the doorway to the building. The elf moves quietly, using what cover he can find (Stealth 16).
If Rhys detects anything untoward he will signal to the others and indicate the direction of the peril.
Active effects (Antitoxin +5,Guidance +1, Elixer of Hiding +10)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 22/22 d20+6=21 ; Tuesday June 21st, 2022 11:06:10 AM
As the party moves into the foyer, Paige edges around Kwarsk and scans the room (Perception=21). Not yet sure of what she sees, she casts a spell (Bless) that will provide a morale boost to her companions, then makes sure she has a tanglefoot bag and her Morningstar close at hand.
Kwarsk, Grothic, and Myre don’t forget to add Bless: +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and saving throws vs fear effects - 1 min. - 0/10 rounds.
(OOC: if Myre didn’t ever claim a vial of antitoxin, Paige will give her a full strength version (+5) from her pouch. @ Carl let me know if you take it so I can cross it off my list!)
Position: Paige will move along with Kwarsk but fan out to be at his (right?) shoulder in an arrow formation.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: 5 Tuesday June 21st, 2022 11:51:46 AM
OOC: Yes, I'll take the vial. Thank you much.
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 19 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 16 FF 16 / CMB 6/ Fort 6 Reflex 4 Will d20+6=24 ; Tuesday June 21st, 2022 2:54:20 PM
[Ooc] Perception 24
Grothic's plan is to stick close behind Kwarsk until violence is inevitable.
Fingers continually look for traps (assuming I'm entitled to another roll: Perception 16). He stands still as possible (Stealth 11) and peers down the corridor to see if there's anything to see.
[OOC: Brian, could you use more distinct colors for Stairs Up and Stairs Down? My color vision is poor, so they look very similar to me.)
Also, how do you do that Spoiler Text thing?]
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+8=19 ; Tuesday June 21st, 2022 5:41:54 PM
[OOC Perception = 19 entering the building, per the Monday Night Post]
Kwarsk moves to C12 [OOC Move Action 20' is exactly enough with the diagonal], mildly surprised that no one was in the foyer to greet them.
[OOC Once Kwarsk reaches C12,
IF Kwarsk sees any foes in the hallway within 20', Kwarsk will move up to 20' to be able to threaten the closest foe.
ELSE no visible foes in the hallway, Kwarsk next moves to E12, and pokes his head around the corner and IF Kwarsk sees foe(s) THEN Kwarsk will shout "foes ahead!"
Back to the Patch DM BrianZ d20+4=24 ; d20+4=17 ; d20+4=24 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+4=13 ; d4+1=3 ; d4+1=5 ; d4+1=5 ; Tuesday June 21st, 2022 9:05:51 PM
OOC- the tags for spoiler are found on the same wold wiki page as the others. It is the word spoiler in brackets, followed by /spoiler in brackets at the end.
Myre has a daze spell ready for action as she follows her team inside
Rhys checks the courtyard and finds the crates of poisonous creatures are still there. The crates appear to be intact. He follows the wall and sneaks up towards the doorway.
OOC- (please indicate location using map coordinates in future posts, see Kwarsk post as an example, otherwise I will take best guess)
Paige keeps a lookout, and moves in with Kwarsk. Bless spell is active for those around her.
Fingers is also on the lookout, and peers down the hall.
Kwarsk moves up and looks down the hall, he detects some movement, and guesses there is someone there.
Grothic and Nintos move in with their teams.
OOC- I havent found a good graphic yet for showing open/closed doors. Assume all doors are open unless specifically stated otherwise.
You can hear someone yell, Kill them all, before they ruin all of our plans. Once they are dead, no one will stop us!
Thug1 has a dagger ready to throw at anyone that comes around the corner. Thug2 throws a dagger at Kwarsk when he looked around the corner, hit AC 24, (no crit), 3 damage, Thug3 throws a dagger at Nintos when he looked around the corner, hit AC 17, 5 damage, Thug4 throws a dagger at Fingers when he looked around the corner, hit AC 24, (no crit), 5 damage,
for those hit by the daggers:Fort save DC 13. (Elf and half elf receive +2 bonus on save) Effect: fatigued and roll new save next round.
You can hear someone casting a spell, spellcraft DC 13 may read: Highlight to display spoiler: { the spell is shield}
OOC- For those who may have missed it, Jerry could use some help with a new DM for the Wold. If you have any interest, please let Jerry know. :)
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: 5 Tuesday June 21st, 2022 11:04:53 PM Myre gets right on Kwarsk's tushy, ready to follow him in. She puts a hand on his back, letting him know she's there. "I'm right behind you, but let me reach past you with a spell before you start making new holes in them. I just need to be a little closer."
*** This is assuming Kwarsk moves up. If he doesn't, she hangs back until her meat shield front line friends move. Move: Move right behind Kwarsk. Standard: Color spray on the thugs once Kwarsk moves up close enough. Obviously she reaches past him instead of hitting him in the cone. Will save is DC 15.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 17/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 d20+4=16 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+2=5 ; Tuesday June 21st, 2022 11:45:15 PM
Fort save: 16. Still awake. Spellcraft: 7. They're either throwing a fireball or ordering a pizza. We'll see which arrives first.
Fingers throws a smokestick so it fills F32:G33. I believe I have to make a ranged attack vs AC 5: I roll 5. (Must be drowsier than I thought.)
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 20/20 Wednesday June 22nd, 2022 7:27:55 AM
Rhys seizes the moment as the smoke stick spreads across the hallway and darts forward up into and through the smoke (double move) to arrive at F26. He hopes the thugs have not had time to draw new weapons after having already thrown their daggers.
Active effects (Guidance +1, Antitoxin +5, Elixer of Hiding +10)
[OOC] Does T3 who attacked me have cover or partial cover? [OOC]
Nintos moves behind the shield wall of Fingers and begins casting a spell (full round action) as he shouts out, "They are raising their defenses!" in reference to the spell he heard being cast.
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 19 / AC 17 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 16 FF 16 / CMB 6/ Fort 6 Reflex 4 Will d20+4=24 ; 2d6+8=16 ; Wednesday June 22nd, 2022 2:50:22 PM Not quickly enough, they aren't.
I would like to take one diagonal square south past Myre and five more directly south to put me in the corner. If that line immediately south of Paige and Kwarsk is a wall, then one square to put me behind Paige and five more east to put me behind the wall at H12. I imagine T1 has a readied shot at me so fire away. During this move, I would like to draw a javelin and fling it at T1 as my action.
Nat 20 on the attack roll. 16 piercing javelin damage. It's 20 if thug 1 is a human or half-bred, assuming favored enemy stuff gets doubled on crits.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 22/22 d20+6=7 ; Wednesday June 22nd, 2022 6:01:32 PM
Paige will follow on Kwarsk’s shoulder, but move over once there is room, in order to accommodate Myre …(G13? Or thereabouts). The cleric is unlikely to be close enough to a bad guy to use her Morningstar, or toss the tanglefoot bag, so she concentrates on maintaining the protective magic of Bless in place whilst scanning the room for troublemakers. (Perception = 7)
Krarsk, Grothic, and Myre don’t forget to add Bless +1 morale bonus to attack rolls and saving throws against fear effects. 1 min or 1/10 rounds.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Wednesday June 22nd, 2022 7:54:20 PM
[OOC The dagger misses - Kwarsk is AC 21, 23 with the Barkskin Potion, and as he just peeked around the corner with his head and maybe an arm, the wall was +4 AC for cover, total AC 27. Even at +2 for partial cover, that's AC 25.]
Kwarsk advances to 10' away from T1 (OOC ends in F15) and Readies to attack any adjacent foe with his Dwarven Waraxe. Kwarsk will obligingly tilt his head the other way when Myre reaches forward to Color Spray.
[OOC - Kwarsk either draws his Waraxe as part of this post's 20' move, or had already done so earlier.]
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 17/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Wednesday June 22nd, 2022 11:12:53 PM
Fingers double-moves to F30:G31.
In this spot, he threatens T3 (for AOO, etc.). He and Rhys are now flanking T3.
Back to the Patch DM BrianZ d20+1=6 ; d20+1=11 ; d20+3=6 ; d20-4=1 ; d8=6 ; d20+5=23 ; d6+1=6 ; d6=4 ; Wednesday June 22nd, 2022 11:15:46 PM
OOC- While the DM is never wrong ahem....I may have missed the weird gravitational effect that penalized the dagger throws. Nintos is not hit by a dagger. However, even with the penalty, Kwarsk and Fingers were both hit due to rolled nat 20.
Kwarsk moves into position in front of the thugs. (please roll save for last round, and a second save if you miss).
Myre follows, and leaning around Kwarsk hits the thugs with a color spray. Both thugs are affected by the spell, both of them drop to the ground, unconscious.
Fingers shakes off the effect of the sleep poison. Then he tosses a smokestick to provide some cover.
Rhys takes advantage of the covering smoke and moves down the hall. (I have you at F27 with 60feet of movement) The surprised thugs don't have time to react. (no AoO)
Nintos moves up behind Fingers and starts casting a spell. (Nintos does not take damage from the dagger last round) He shouts out a warning.
Grothic prepares to move from cover and throw a javelin, but the target is down. He can ready his throw for another threat. (I placed you inside the room since everyone else moved in already.)( Your attack will coup the thug, I will let you decide if your character would do that or not)
Paige moves into the room, keeping everyone in range of her bless spell. She looks around for danger.
Thug1 is unconscious Thug2 is unconscious
Jason steps out from behind the door. Did you miss me? He casts a spell at Rhys, but the ray missed. He curses and prepares to start casting another spell. Don't worry I have some more!
Frederick steps out from behind the other door, and whistles at the two remaining thugs to keep Rhys occupied. Then he throws a flask at the group in the front, but it flies wide. The flask explodes behind Paige and Myre(each take 1 point of fire damage) Arrgh, it's like these fools are blessed by the gods!
Thug4 moves up and circles behind Rhys, drawing a short sword as he moves. Rhys may make an AoO on this thug Thug3 takes advantage of a distracted Rhys, and tries to stab him. Hit AC 23, damage 10 plus fort save vs poison. Fort save DC 13. (Elf and half elf receive +2 bonus on save) Effect: fatigued and roll new save next round.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 13 HP: 19/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/4 Thursday June 23rd, 2022 12:13:34 AM Myre audibly gasps when both thugs go down. She quickly looks back and forth between Grothic, Paige, and Kwarsk, making sure they saw that. She tries so hard not to grin like an idiot.
Then some jerk throws fire at her and ruins the moment. Ugh...
She glares so hard at the two jerks hiding behind their minions and moves to cover next to Thug1, then calls out to Jay's son. "We were nice to you, you...butt!" She casts a daze spell at him, reminding him that he only has more if she says so.
***
Move: H17 Standard: Daze Jason (Will DC 14)
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 16/16 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:13 CMB:1 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:4 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 d20+3=19 ; d4+3=6 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=18 ; d6+1=6 ; d6+1=7 ; Thursday June 23rd, 2022 8:29:42 AM
Nintos finishes casting summon monster 1 and a dog appears from another plain. “Get ‘em!” He says as he points into the building. The dog charges in at burst through the fog and flanks T3 with Rhys. (19 or 21 if Rhys has a weapon) (Bite damage = 6)
Nintos moves forward and 30 feet and readies an attack of acid splash vs the first bad guy he sees. (Nat 20, 18 range touch for confirmation. 6 for normal 13 if crit confirmed)
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 10/20 d20+7=8 ; d20+12=16 ; d20=10 ; d20+8=21 ; d10+3=13 ; Thursday June 23rd, 2022 9:42:50 AM
Rhys turns with the thug trying to encircle him and his curved blade slices through the air missing thug 4. (AoO 8, included Guidance as part of attack). The elf staggers under the attack from behind but easily fights off the poison that coats Thug 3’s blade (Fort Save 16)! He cries out a curse in elvish and in one smooth motion spins and swings down with the wickedly sharp, curved blade at his attacker. It is a move he has practised time and time again and it seems effortless to him. (Hit AC 21 for 13 dmg on Thug 3).
Active effects: Elixer of Hiding +10, Antitoxin +5
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 21/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+9=13 ; d20+6=14 ; d10+2=7 ; Thursday June 23rd, 2022 9:51:53 AM
[OOC backing up in time to take 3 damage from the uncannily accurate dagger]
Kwarsk quietly yelps, "Ow!"
[OOC Kwarsk's save bonus is +7 Fort normally, +2 for Poison due to being a Dwarf = +9, with a result of 13, exactly saving due to his Hardy Dwarven nature and recent training with the Monks of Pantheon.]
Kwarsk CHARGES with his Waraxe and attacks Jason, shouting, "You'll pay for your backstabbing, you dirty poisoner!"
[OOC Kwarsk ends in F21 and threatens Frederick too.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 d20+9=11 ; Thursday June 23rd, 2022 11:17:44 AM ”Good one, Myre! Paige calls to the little magiker, who’s on fire figuratively…and then literally!! The cleric becomes distracted when she is hit and looses her concentration (Concentration check 11) The Bless spell is gone! Plowing ahead, Paige reaches the thugs felled by Myre’s spell (G16?) and proceeds to remove anything that could be considered a weapon, tossing them across the room and out of reach of the thugs.
Grothic (Jonathan) HP 19 / AC 15 Touch 12 FF 15/ CMD 16 FF 16 / CMB 6/ Fort 6 Reflex 4 Will rage rounds 5/6 d20=9 ; 2d6=6 ; Thursday June 23rd, 2022 4:50:54 PM
[Ooc] Two ways this can happen: 1) there is a straight line between Grothic's current location and G21. In that case he charges and attacks Fred. If not, he double moves to the same location.
Grothic hears a storm that can only be the raw power of an armored dwarf running. He drops his javelin and falls in behind Kwarsk's tiny legged rampage.
Could you hold your shield a little higher? They can still get my face.
Immediately after the dwarf swings at Jason, Grothic steps in beside him, facing down Frederic and either swings with his great sword or prepares to do so next turn.
If I get to attack, I rage.
19 to attack Highlight to display spoiler: { 9 rolled + 6 normal + 2 rage +2 charge}
19 damage
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 17/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Thursday June 23rd, 2022 7:09:54 PM
Fingers runs 30 feet, finds himself still in the smoke cloud, and continues (double-move). Now in the clear, he can't actually join the fight this round; he steps into one of the side rooms (H30:I31).
Back to the Patch DM BrianZ d20+4=12 ; d20+3=20 ; d6+1=2 ; d20+4=23 ; d6=2 ; Thursday June 23rd, 2022 10:23:30 PM
Myre moves into range and casts a spell at the dirty backstabber, Jason. He is caught by surprise, and is momentarily unable to offer a witty retort.
Nintos completes his summons, and a dog enters the fray. The dog promptly bites the thug in the rear, causing a bit of pain. Nintos moves ahead, ready to enter the fray himself. (you need a double move to get past the smoke)
Rhys missed one thug, but solidly connects with the other. along with the bite from the dog, the thug drops to the ground, and moves no more. Rhys shakes off the poison.
Kwarsk also shakes off the poison, if barely, and moves up to the guild leaders. He takes a swipe at Jason with his axe. The strike aims true, but bounces off of an invisible force.
Paige maintains her spell! (continuous concentration is not needed for bless), and moves up to the unconscious thugs. She takes the visible weapons carefully, in case they are poisoned! and tosses them across the room back toward the entrance.
Grothic moves up beside Kwarsk(double move) to threaten the guildmaster. He looks like some anger is about to get unleashed. (you dont have to make an attack to start a rage, for ex if you want to take advantage of the will bonus. But I know rounds are limited at this level and you may want to conserve)(the first room you passed through is still cluttered from the last time you were here and is not clear enough for a charge)
Fingers moves ahead and steps into a side room.
Thug1 is unconscious Thug2 is unconscious Thug3 is dead
Thug4 looks and sees nowhere to run to, so he continues the attack on Rhys with his sword. Hit AC 17, 2 damage and fort save(Fort save DC 13. (Elf and half elf receive +2 bonus on save) Effect: fatigued and roll new save next round)
Jason starts to shake off the daze, it will be gone next round.
Frederick can't believe how poorly this is going. He steps back out of range, and tosses another fire bomb, this time at Grothic. Hit AC 23, Grothic takes 2 points of fire damage. (On the round following a direct hit, the target takes an additional 1d6 points of damage. If desired, the target can use a full-round action to attempt to extinguish the flames before taking this additional damage. Extinguishing the flames requires a DC 15 Reflex save.)
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 13 HP: 19/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/4 d4+1=2 ; Friday June 24th, 2022 12:21:03 AM
Oh bother, Kwarsk is on fire. Myre thinks for a moment that this place is probably going to burn down anyway, and that all this could have been avoided if they'd just gone with her plan. She makes a promise to herself to stick up for her ideas in the future.
Unfortunately, Myre has no way to extinguish Kwarsk. She decides that ending the threat quicker is the best thing she can do for him. She points at the ceiling over Jason's head and a small portal opens it. Tiny micro-meteors streak down onto Jay's Son's head. She frowns. They're usually not that small.
***
Move: None Standard: Minute Meteors bloodline ability. 2 damage to Jason, reflex DC 15 to avoid all damage.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 8/20 d20+12=26 ; d20+6=25 ; d20+6=12 ; d10+3=10 ; Friday June 24th, 2022 5:47:18 PM
Rhys feels little but anger as Thug 4’s blade cuts him (Fort Save 26). He turns to face his remaining opponent, a wry smile spreads across his face. A half step to the left to draw attention away from the flash of cold steel and voila his blade strikes the exposed flesh of the thug. (Hit AC 25, critical unconfirmed with 12 for 10 HP dmg). ” It may be time to lay down your weapon and seek mercy while you’re still able” the elf intones.
Active Effects: Elixer of Hiding +10, Antitoxin +5
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 Friday June 24th, 2022 7:27:25 PM
The moment of self doubt passes, and Paige realizes Domi’s blessings still course through her and protect her companions! The half elf hustles down the corridor heading straight for Grothic. (Position G20?) ”Let me help you, friend!” she cries. The cleric attempts to smother the flames bothering her half-orc companion, calmly adding ”There, there. It is only I, your friend Paige.” Remembering he does not like to be touched, she does not want to startle the fellow!
Hopefully Paige can extinguish the flames so Grothic can dispatch his adversary.
Kwarsk, Grothic, Myre don’t forget to add Bless + 1 morale bonus to attacks amd saves vs fear effects 1 minute, or 3/10 rounds.
Fingers takes a 5-foot step south, leans out of the doorway, says Excuse me to Nintos, and fires at Fredrick.
Attack Roll: 6. Certainly misses, especially since the edge of the doorframe gives Fred +4 AC for cover.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 21/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+4=15 ; d10+2=11 ; Saturday June 25th, 2022 7:15:30 AM
Kwarsk grimaces at discovering Jason has magical protections, and says, "Does your fancy invisible armor cover you everywhere?!?" and Kwarsk attacks again with his Waraxe, searching for some flaw in Jason's defenses.
[OOC 3 normal +1 bless = +4. Hit AC 15 for 11 damage (!)
Kwarsk does not change position/square, intentionally leaving open Grothic's path to pursue Frederick.]
Grothic (Jonathan) rage rounds 5/6 d3=1 ; d20+9=16 ; 2d6+9=14 ; Saturday June 25th, 2022 10:33:43 PM
Grothic's rage blinds him and barely notices Paige's attempts to help him (Ooc but that was awesome, thanks!) as he moves in to strike Frederick.
Attack roll 16 (18 if he's human) Damage 14 (16 if human)
Ignore the d3 roll, it is a symptom of a syndrome known as fat fingers.
***** Experimenting with tracking hp and stuff. Highlight to display spoiler: {Grothic 2 Half-orc barbarian 1/ranger 1 NG Medium humanoid (human, orc) Init 2; Senses darkvision 60 ft.; Perception +6 -------------------- Defense -------------------- AC 15, touch 10, flat-footed 13 (+5 armor, +2 Dex, -2 rage) hp 21/23 (2 HD; 1d10+1d12+9) Fort 8, Ref 4, Will 3 Defensive Abilities orc ferocity -------------------- Offense -------------------- Speed 40 ft. (30 ft. in armor) Melee greatsword +8 (2d6+9 S/19+) or short sword +8 (1d6+6 P/19+) Ranged javelin +4 (1d6+6 P) Special Attacks favored enemy (humans +2), rage (6 rounds/day) -------------------- Statistics -------------------- Str 22, Dex 14, Con 19, Int 13, Wis 12, Cha 8 Base Atk +2; CMB 8; CMD 18 Feats Combat Expertise Skills Acrobatics +2, Climb +7, Craft (weapons) +4, Intimidate +5, Perception +6, Profession (other) +5, Profession (sailor) +5, Survival +6; Racial Modifiers +2 Intimidate Languages Common, Goblin, Orc SQ fast movement, orc blood, track +1, wild empathy +0 Combat Gear potion of cure light wounds (2), oil (3); Other Gear scale mail, greatsword, javelin (3), short sword, backpack, bedroll, belt pouch, flint and steel, hemp rope (50 ft.), hooded lantern, sack, trail rations (14), waterskin, whetstone, 6 gp, 5 sp -------------------- Special Abilities -------------------- Combat Expertise +/-1 Bonus to AC in exchange for an equal penalty to attack. Darkvision (60 feet) You can see in the dark (black and white only). Fast Movement +10 (Ex) +10 feet to speed, unless heavily loaded. Favored Enemy (Humans +2) (Ex) +2 to many rolls when dealing with creatures of the humans category. Orc Blood Orc Ferocity (1/day) If brought below 0 Hp, can act as though disabled for 1 rd. Rage (6 rounds/day) (Ex) +4 Str, +4 Con, +2 to Will saves, -2 to AC when enraged. Track +1 Add the listed bonus to Survival checks made to track. Wild Empathy +0 (Ex) Improve the attitude of an animal, as if using Diplomacy.
Hero Lab and the Hero Lab logo are Registered Trademarks of LWD Technology, Inc. Free demo available at https://herolab.online Pathfinder® and associated marks and logos are trademarks of Paizo Inc.®, and are used under license.
}
Grothic (Jonathan) rage rounds 5/6 Saturday June 25th, 2022 10:34:16 PM
I have regrets.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 17/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Sunday June 26th, 2022 5:37:02 PM
[OOC: - Grothic, who's allowed to read the spoiler?
- DMs: Just realized that had not taken a move action in my turn. My move action is to reload my crossbow. I'm pretty sure that's permitted even though I took a 5-ft step.]
Myre resolves in the future to stand up to teammates not catching on fire, and fires some meteors at Jason. He manages to avoid them, even to his own surprise.
Rhys takes a swipe at thug 4, smacking him hard. He tries to talk the thug into surrendering but that doesn't look likely.
Paige tries to put Grothic's fire out, but simple patting is ineffective for alchemist's fire (OOC: Paige doesn't really explain how she tries to put it out, and I don't even know if someone else can put it out with, say, a reflex roll but I can't even pull up the sheet to roll for you.) I'll give Paige a chance to reflex roll instead of Grothic, DC 15 to put him out.
Fingers fires a bolt at Frederick but misses.
Kwarsk takes a swipe at Jason, and manages to connect.
Grothic takes 3 fire damage, but he smacks Frederick hard.
Thug 4, freaking out, swings his sword again, connecting for 3 damage (but no poison this time).
Jason and Frederick begin arguing about which one should take all the blame for this. Finally, Jason uses his chill touch (Kwarsk and maybe Grothic gets AoOs (the latter is weapon dependent) and lets loose on Grothic (7 vs touch AC so it misses, if it had hit, its for 4 damage, Fort DC 13 vs 1 str damage).
Frederick throws an acid flask at Kwarsk (12 vs touch AC, so it hits), Kwarsk takes 4 acid damage, Grothic takes 1. He still needs to decide if he'll keep fighting or try to put out the fire.
Current Damage
Thug1 - unconscious thug2 - unconscious thug3 - dead thug4 - 10 damage (AC 14) Jason - 12 damage (AC 15 with shield) Frederick 15 damage (AC 13, human)
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 16/16 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:13 CMB:1 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:4 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 d20+3=4 ; Monday June 27th, 2022 4:58:14 PM
Nintos calls for the dog to charge thug 4, but the attack misses.
As Nintos takes another move action to move up through the smoke and sees Frederick standing there. He loosens his readies Acid Splash.
[ooc]Previous post 6/23: Nintos moves forward and 30 feet and readies an attack of acid splash vs the first bad guy he sees. (Nat 20, 18 range touch for confirmation. 6 for normal 13 if crit confirmed) [ooc]
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 13 HP: 19/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/4 d4+1=2 ; Monday June 27th, 2022 5:00:37 PM Myre watches hopefully as the acid flask sails towards Kwarsk, but is disappointed when the liquid fails to extinguish the fire. She lets a little sigh pass her lips before she sends more meteors down on Jason's stupid head. Then, the sigh turns to a grumble as the tiny meteors are once again very tiny. At least she's keeping him on his toes.
Move: None Standard: Minute Meteors bloodline ability. 2 damage to Jason, reflex DC 15 to avoid all damage.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 17/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+4=23 ; d10+2=4 ; d20+4=10 ; d10+2=3 ; Monday June 27th, 2022 5:47:06 PM
Kwarsk spots Jason casting a spell and with practiced reflex, brings his Waraxe backswing to bear on Jason!
[OOC 3 (normal) +1 (Bless) = +4; Hitting AC 23 (not a crit threat) for 4 damage on Jason]
Kwarsk grimaces in pain as the acid burns him, thinking about switching targets.
Kwarsk selects his target and attacks, "fall, you dirty backstabbers!"
[OOC - Kwarsk continues attacking Jason if the 4 damage didn't drop Jason, ELSE IF Jason falls from the 4 damage attack, THEN Kwarsk 5' steps to F22 and attacks Frederick.
Kwarsk's attack result - hit AC 10 (I think that misses any target) for 3 damage]
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 17/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Monday June 27th, 2022 5:48:18 PM
[OOC that first attack was the Attack of Opportunity DM Melvin called for]
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 8/20 d20+8=19 ; d10+3=9 ; Monday June 27th, 2022 6:48:27 PM
Rhys circles his opponent (thug 4) warily, putting the thug between himself and the Nintos’ dog. He continues his banter as further distraction before once again lashing out with his sword, searching for a weakness in the thug’s defence. ”You are brave indeed, to stand and fight when your companions have already died. Who is it you seek to impress? Surely not the alchemist or his friend! You have impressed me, but that is a sad epitaph to inscribe on your headstone.”. (Hit AC 19 for 9hp)
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 5/20 Monday June 27th, 2022 6:52:34 PM
OOC. Correcting Hp in header to reflect 3 dmg taken from thug 4
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 d20+1=6 ; d20+6=16 ; Monday June 27th, 2022 7:47:34 PM
The cleric recognizes after the fact (Reflex save = 6) that it will take more than patting at the flames on Grothic to put them out! The half orc seems nonplused by the pain, however and continues to go after his opponent.
Paige darts her hand quickly towards Kwarsk’s weapon transferring a bit of holy magic* onto the war axe, before withdrawing her hand just as quickly!
Unable to get past her companions or the poisoners trafficker’s, the half elf will instead look back over her shoulder to check that the unconscious thugs are still out of commission! (Perception = 16)
* Kwarsk’s war axe is now a Magic Weapon +1 enhancement bonus on attacks and damage rolls - 1 minute, or 10 rounds
Kwarsk, Grothic, Myre don’t forget Bless + 1 morale bonus on attacks and saving throws vs fear effects - 1 min or 4/10 rounds
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 17/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 d20+2=4 ; Monday June 27th, 2022 10:59:02 PM
[OOC: After Fingers' 5-foot step, he's in the doorway: H31:I32]
I'm not clear on whether Nintos is still standing in doorway.
IF Nintos is still in G31, Fingers fires at from his current spot; Fred gets +4 AC from cover
IF no one is standing in G31:32, Fingers does a 5-foot step to G31:H32 and fires at Fred.
Attack roll: 4. Sheesh. Move action: Reload.
Grothic (Jonathan) rage rounds 5/6 d20+9=17 ; 2d6+9=18 ; Tuesday June 28th, 2022 6:23:57 AM
Grothic takes a five foot step towards Frederic but takes a rage and bless fueled swing at Jason (unless he's dead for some reason in which case he attacks Fred).
Great sword attack=17 (19 if human) Damage=18 (20 if human)
AC 15, touch 10, flat-footed 13 (+5 armor, +2 Dex, -2 rage) hp 17/23 (2 HD; 1d10+1d12+9) Fort 8, Ref 4, Will 3
DM Melvin d20+1=9 ; Tuesday June 28th, 2022 3:09:18 PM
Nintos' acid flask sails across the air at Frederick and it strikes true (crit confirmed). He makes a gurgling sound as it completely melts his back, taking him down.
Myre sends more meteor's Jason's way, this time striking true.
Kwarsk lands an attack on Jason, but Jason's too quick for the followup. "Perhaps you should have stayed down in the caves," Jason chortles.
Rhys finishes up thug 4.
Paige buffs Kwarsk's weapon, regretting that she couldn't put grothic out.
Fingers fires at Jason, the last man standing, but misses.
"Don't you understand," Jason shouts at the group. "We will continue, long after you are gone!" He begins to charge his next chill touch. "We are death itself!"
Grothic closes Jason's mouth with a final swing.
Thug1 - unconscious thug2 - unconscious thug3 - dead thug4 - dead Jason - dead Frederick - dead
battle over
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 5/20 Tuesday June 28th, 2022 3:39:23 PM
Rhys watches as thug 4 falls to the ground, a wide swath cut across the man’s torso. The elf shakes his head at the pointless death and surveys the room. With all of their opponents down he takes the time to cut some clean cloth from the thug’s cloak and binds his own wounds. ”Somebody tie up those two thugs out front and make sure they have nothing dangerous at hand!”. He quickly wipes down his blade on the same cloak and returns it to the sheath strapped across his back. Rhys will then thoroughly search the two thugs that lay dead at his feet, ever careful to not mishandle anything sharp or potentially poisonous.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 d20+6=13 ; Tuesday June 28th, 2022 3:44:14 PM ”On your guard!” advises the cleric, adding, ”Drop and roll,Grothic! It should help extinguish the flames!”
Paige will keep an eye on the unconscious thugs as she makes her way back towards the front of the ‘store’. (Perception = 13) tanglefoot bag in hand - just in case…
Bless is still up 5/10 Kwarsk’s weapon is still magiked 2/10
Antitoxin +2 in effect
Grothic (Jonathan) rage rounds 5/6 Tuesday June 28th, 2022 11:08:02 PM
Fatigued, Grothic attempts to follow instructions and put the fire out.
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 16/16 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:13 CMB:1 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:4 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 d20+2=4 ; Wednesday June 29th, 2022 7:18:26 AM
Hearing Rhys, Nintos begins to approach the bodies on the ground, mutters a word of incantation “nasir mitne wiap” and one at a time the weapons float off to the side in a pile. “Does anyone have the ability to know if their blades are poisoned?” he motions towards the weapons once they are collected.
Nintos will try to aid anyone tying up the thugs. Failing to do so he realizes he is just in the way and begins to keep a look out for anyone else coming this way.
Grothic (Jonathan) rage rounds 5/6 Wednesday June 29th, 2022 10:39:20 AM Paige has a knack for that kind of work.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 13 HP: 19/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/4 d20+4=5 ; Wednesday June 29th, 2022 2:35:58 PM Myre looks around at her new friends. "That was great, everyone! Real class A fighting."
She looks down at the thugs. "Hey, these guys will wake up soon. They'll be blind and stunned for a bit after. If we wanna tie them up or something, we should do it quick." She does a quick once over of their belongings. Is there any evidence that puts them in this group, or are they just mercenaries who took a bad job?
Perception: 5
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 d20+4=15 ; Wednesday June 29th, 2022 4:53:25 PM ”Use the thugs belts to bind their hands and feet!” suggests the cleric, as she moves past the folks assembled around the the unconscious individuals towards the pile of weapons near the front entrance. ”I disarmed them of all visible weapons earlier, but did not have the time for a thorough search of their persons.” (OOC: see Paige’s post and DM’s post from June 23)
Paige will use one of her Orisons (Detect Poison) after carefully pushing the weapons into a pile. If they are indeed dangerous, she will attempt to identify the nature of the poison (Wisdom = 15).
In effect: bless on Kwarsk, Myre, Grothic, and Paige (1 min) Magic weapon on Kwarsk’s war axe (1 min) Antitoxin +2 on Paige (1 hour)
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 17/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Wednesday June 29th, 2022 9:04:34 PM
Kwarsk says, "I'll check downstairs. Someone else check upstairs for enemy reinforcements?"
Kwarsk heads downstairs to check for enemy reinforcements.
DM Melvin Wednesday June 29th, 2022 9:56:05 PM
Rhys searches the bodies for anything sharp or poisonous.
Paige suggests it might be time for Grothic to put out the flames, and keeps an eye on the unconscious thugs.
Grothic puts himself out and finally rests.
Nintos uses magic to move weapons away from foes, and asks whether some blades are poisoned. (The short answer is that every thug has a short sword and a dagger with a single dose of poison each when the fight began. But you should be able to move them without poisoning yourself, just like they did.)
Myre takes note of their uniforms, which seem to indicate that everyone was a true believer.
Paige finally starts binding and I'll assume that others join in.
Each of the thugs has a masterwork shortsword, ranged daggers (3), and masterwork padded armor.
Frederick has a potion of barkskin (if he didn't initially use it), a potion of cure light wounds, a potion of invisibility, two remaining each of acid flasks and alchemists fire. He's wearing leather armor, and has a masterwork dagger, an antitoxin, and thieves tools.
Jason has bracers of armor+1, masterwork quarterstaff, his acolyte robes (indicating he was a necromancer) and bonded amulet, his spellbook... and his government credentials.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 5/20 d20+4=14 ; d20+12=31 ; Wednesday June 29th, 2022 10:07:41 PM
Rhys heads upstairs as Kwarsk suggested to look for any other would be assailants. He moves carefully and quietly through the rooms, trying to remain undetected as he searches. (Perception 14, Stealth 31)
Active effects: Elixer of Hiding +10, Antitoxin 5
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 17/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 d20+5=15 ; Wednesday June 29th, 2022 10:31:25 PM
Government credentials? Fingers examines those carefully. What does it tell us?
And what can he infer that it doesn't say? Does it look like he's publicly a government employee but secretly a bad guy? Does it look like he's secretly a fed and they know about this?
That's probably a lot to glean, but what do I know of local affairs? (Knowledge (Local): 15)
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 13 HP: 19/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/4 Thursday June 30th, 2022 12:19:49 AM
Myre is super glad the thugs are cultists instead of mercenaries. She follows Paige's lead and binds their feet with their belts. She'll "borrow" belts from the other thugs for further binding. That finished, she heads over to stand by Jay's poor dead son.
"You don't think we ruined his sting operation, do you?" She looks around at everyone. "Like, he was their man on the inside and we killed him? That probably wouldn't go over well." She ponders this, gently stroking Waddles' head. "Nah, he was the last one up and wasn't all like 'Woah! I'm on your side!' or anything." She glares down at him. "I should have realized he was toooooo boring when we met him. I should have seen right through that act. Even wizards aren't that boring." She nods to Nintos, thinking her words are complementary.
She bends down and gently lifts his hand by the wrist. "He doesn't need these bracers anymore, right?"
Grothic (Jonathan) rage rounds 5/6 Thursday June 30th, 2022 11:16:05 AM
[b]I don't think we have to worry about a sting operation. I've got a hunch spies of all types are the last candidates to fight to the death on anything.
Does anyone need that staff? The very fine one. I have some skills in making weapons, and that stick could be quite deadly, with the right attachments.[b]
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 d8+1=8 ; Thursday June 30th, 2022 7:10:11 PM
When Rhys returns to the front of the store to report the findings of his reconnaissance, Paige will burn her last level 1 spell in order to seal the fighter’s wounds. (Cure Light Wounds = 8) As she checks the elf for any remaining injury, she speaks to the group at large - congratulating them on a job well done, and singling out Myre on the effectiveness of her magiks.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 17/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday June 30th, 2022 8:09:19 PM
Kwarsk continues to explore the downstairs to confirm that no other foes are down there.
[OOC - Kwarsk began this action on yesterday's post, but the DM post didn't address it, so Kwarsk continues, in case it takes more than one post to call "all clear."]
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 16/16 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:13 CMB:1 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:4 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 d20+8=26 ; Thursday June 30th, 2022 9:08:21 PM
Seeing another casters spellbook, Ninto’s interest is piqued. “Although I have spent my fair share of time in the library, I did have a social life when Breaunna was around. She could dance the night away. I always regrated it the next day with my two left feet.” gets quiet for a brief moment; “Studying helped distract my mind. Yes the bracers would be useful, but I would be interested in studying what this necromancer was into.”
Bending down to pick up the tomb; “Even if it is a school I am not fond of, learning their secrets could prove useful.” He doesn’t crack open the Necromancers spellbook, but he will slide it into his side bag if no one objects. He also picked up the bonded amulet
Nintos helps with Fingers looking over the Government credentials (K-Local 26)
[ooc]I am going to add the following items to the loot sheet below. Feel free to mark on the sheet once they are loaded what your character wants and then I will remove them. I put a list on here, let me know if I missed something.[ooc]
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 16/16 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:13 CMB:1 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:4 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 d20+8=26 ; Thursday June 30th, 2022 9:20:42 PM
Seeing another casters spellbook, Ninto’s interest is piqued. “Although I have spent my fair share of time in the library, I did have a social life when Breaunna was around. She could dance the night away. I always regrated it the next day with my two left feet.” gets quiet for a brief moment; “Studying helped distract my mind. Yes the bracers would be useful, but I would be interested in studying what this necromancer was into.”
Bending down to pick up the tomb; “Even if it is a school I am not fond of, learning their secrets could prove useful.” He doesn’t crack open the Necromancers spellbook, but he will slide it into his side bag if no one objects. He also picked up the bonded amulet
Nintos helps with Fingers looking over the Government credentials (K-Local 26)
[ooc]I am going to add the following items to the loot sheet below. Feel free to mark on the sheet once they are loaded what your character wants and then I will remove them. I put a list on here, let me know if I missed something.[ooc]
Kwarsk and Rhys take a look around for other assailants but don't find anything.
Fingers looks closely at the government credentials but can't really evaluate if they are fake or not, or what they are used for. It's not even entirely clear as of yet which government it's for. Myre briefly wonders if he was undercover but it's pretty clear he wasn't.
Grothic wonders if he can craft the staff into something else (the DMs need to review further).
Paige heals Rhys.
While searching, the group finds the nonportable alchemists lab, Frederick's journal and 10 doses of poison.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Thursday June 30th, 2022 9:48:45 PM
Rhys returns from his watch of the upstairs and reports that it is clear. He thanks Paige for the healing she has bestowed upon him, ” If you ever get to meet my mother you must promise to never tell her about this! I promised her I would be careful.” He removes the makeshift bandaging and admires her handiwork.
”We’d better have a look through that journal to see what else this Frederick has been up to. It may have some clues as to the government papers that Jayson was carrying, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it ties back to the politician’s wife we met at the Crypt…something doesn’t add up about her. Who knows how deep the rot may go.”.
Rhys carefully picks through the assembled spoils but selects nothing for himself. ”We can sell most of this stuff at the Catacombs along with the other stuff we have and split the proceeds. Maybe there will be enough to get some things we really want.”
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 17/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday June 30th, 2022 10:10:33 PM
Kwarsk says, "Fingers, maybe you want to take a look at Frederick's journal? He seemed a tricky fellow, and tricky knows tricky, yes?"
To all, Kwarsk says, "Hmm... with all this lab equipment, if we get city approval, using this site as a base for our missions seems like a better and better idea, though we'll have to figure out how to keep things safe when we're all away from town."
[OOC on the loot sheet, Kwarsk requests (1) the new potion of barkskin, to replace the one he used this battle; and (2) as there are three (3) full-power antitoxins listed, Kwarsk requests one (1) of them.]
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 13 HP: 19/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/4 Thursday June 30th, 2022 10:29:15 PM Myre shakes her head at Rhys' suggestion. "Yes, it may be practical to use economics to convert these things into money, but then I won't be able to start a story with 'See these bracers? Pulled'em off a necromancer that was trying to poison the whole town.' I don't think 'See these bracers? I bought them at market price at the Catacombs' has the same ring."
...and oh dear look at that. Myre's already unclasped them and is trying them on. She smiles at Rhys and pats him on the shoulder as she walks past him. "Dad always told me stories were important." She casually starts looking at the lab. She recognizes the labels on some of the bottles. She has no idea what they do, but it's something. She keeps an ear open as she pokes around, curious about what's in that journal.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 17/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Thursday June 30th, 2022 11:00:51 PM
Fingers takes the journal. Sure, I'll take a look. But you, Kwarsk -- what were you thinking, sneaking around the basement alone?
You too, Rhys! We already know this is an enemy stronghold -- and you both think you can clear a whole floor by yourselves? That is not wise!
From now on -- buddy system! Move around in pairs! I'm serious!
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 d20+4=23 ; Friday July 1st, 2022 6:50:08 PM
Paige looks at the Acolyte robes and attempts to identify their provenance (Knowledge Religion = 23)., then studies the rest of the ‘loot’. ”Everyone should aim to carry antitoxin and potions of healing, but if no one claims these, I’ll hold on to them and distribute them as needed. she suggests.
Nothing stands out as particularly useful to the half elf cleric, so she suggests whatever doesn’t get claimed, should be sold and the proceeds distributed amongst those who didn’t find a prize amongst the loot.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Saturday July 2nd, 2022 7:06:13 AM
Rhys ponders the next steps to wrap up their investigation. The list is long; read Frederick’s journal, follow up on Jason’s government documents, search Jason’s office at the school for more evidence, and bring their findings to Berem or Clarisse or perhaps the city guard. ”this whole affair is bigger than anyone anticipated…I’m thinking we should be asking for a bonus at the end of this.”
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 16/16 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:13 CMB:1 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:4 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 d20+9=12 ; d20+9=29 ; Saturday July 2nd, 2022 8:27:29 AM
Ninto’s nods when Rhys mentions the Catacombs; “It seems that everyone has claimed what they want. When we are back towards the Catacombs, I will drop by and sell off the rest. We do already have some gold collected, but from the looks of this gear we should be able to get some better fortifications.”
Watching people being healed; “There also might be things that we need if we are going to stay together as a group. Our follower of Domi cannot bet expected to use all of her magics to heal us. We might want to invest in a wand to help her workload. Or even something that would bring us restoration when someone needs it.”
Nintos begins to look over the Necromancer’s spellbook (Spellcraft 12). Looking up from the book he rubs his eyes and thinks; Clearly this isn’t the place to study another’s life’s work. I will study this more once I am back at my room. He closes the book and puts it away.
Seeing Paige studying the robes, Nintos detects magic on it. (Spellcraft 29) Sometimes there are hidden magics in a mage’s robes. Whispering to Paige; “You know, I have heard of Necromancers using a rather wondrous set of robes called the Robe of Bones. To the untrained eye, it appears to be a normal set of robes, but only the wearer can see the embroidery of undead creatures upon them.” holding out a hand; “May I?” Nintos ask. If Paige allows, Nintos will put on the robes to see if this could be such a robe.
Grothic (Jonathan) rage rounds 5/6 Monday July 4th, 2022 2:52:34 PM
Grothic tries to fight off the fatigue his rage brought on. It appeared bestial, with more snarling and single-mindedness than would befit his personality.
[Ooc] we're at a campground that promised WiFi but it seems to be under construction. Cell service doesn't work either. If Grothic appears short this week, it's nothing personal.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 Monday July 4th, 2022 4:08:58 PM
Paige watches as Nintos dons the intriguing robes. ”Do you feel anything? she asks, tipping her head to one side, and studying the fit. ”You figure we should haul these guys over to the Black Cathedral for questioning? Or maybe turn them in to the constabulary?” she gestures to the bound thugs. Her eyes fall on the bodies of the poisoners and their henchman in the hallway, and she adds: ”We will need some real clerics of Gargul to deal with the bodies and send the souls on the way to their audience with the god of life and and death.”
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 17/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Monday July 4th, 2022 10:30:10 PM I'm not fond of lugging these guys all the way to the Cathedral if I don't have to, but there won't be any Constables nearby. Muuru starts using the shredded clothes and whatever's nearby to bind the survivor's into a chain-gang, so we can walk them to the Cathedral without their making a run for it.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 d20+4=6 ; Tuesday July 5th, 2022 8:49:42 AM
Rhys keeps a watchful eye on the two remaining thugs who lay bound on the floor of the ‘Patch’. Distracted by the discussions that surround him, and still recovering from his wounds, the elf finds his attention drifting to other matters (Perception 6).
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 17/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Tuesday July 5th, 2022 11:01:28 AM
Kwarsk says, "I agree with Paige, about taking the survivors to the Black Cathedral for questioning. We don't really have a lot of knowledge of Plateau City, and I'm beginning to think that's one of the reasons the Black Cathedral agreed to hire each of us..."
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 16/16 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:13 CMB:1 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:4 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 Tuesday July 5th, 2022 1:42:02 PM
[OOC] Sorry about not posting on the 4th [OOC] Nintos nods in agreement with Fingers; “I agree with Fingers on this one. We need to remember that these guys have… had Government Credentials on them. If we move them and someone looks into it, they could lean in on those credentials and then we will find ourselves in the stockades.” Looking, and trying to remember; “Did anyone see a cart? If we could transport them while they are under that would be advantageous. Tie them up, gag them and cover them with a tarp might be our best bet.”
As Paige mentions the robes Nintos turns his attention back to them.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 Tuesday July 5th, 2022 3:08:56 PM
Paige points out that the Black Cathedral isn’t really very far from the shop, but the constabulary - or at least the jail where Musetta was processed, is farther away.
(OOC: per Woldian maps of Plateau City, The Scar is across the street from the Black Cathedral, which dominates the Nightmare Quarter pretty much like Norte Dame in Paris, or Westminster in London.)
DM Melvin Tuesday July 5th, 2022 9:12:13 PM
(OOC: My apologies for not posting yesterday. Things just got hectic with the July 4/family stuff.)
Generally, the group begins to discuss Frederick's journal with interest, as well as the loot they discovered. A discussion as to efficiency vs story begins to break out.
The journal does in fact make a mention of Jason's documents, as how they were able to reacquire the pumpkin patch. (It doesn't look like Jason was in fact a government official, but how he got the documents remains a mystery for another time.)
At the end, Rhys suggests that they head off to Berem to report, and ask for a bonus. Paige still thinks they can have a working relationship with the constabulary.
Nintos decides to see what spells are in Nintos' spellbook in private.
---------------
Story after story in Frederick's journal speaks calmly over the group's desire to bring power over death, of the corruption of the city, and of the person that they would work for, the powers greater than himself to which he is beholden.
It speaks of meeting after meeting with the man known only as "The Beholder." An unnammed benefactor, the man who supplied Sharas Tel with the sleep poison formula. It details the guild's issues with making it work properly. And to their satisfaction, they have gotten close. Close enough to sell it. Close enough to do their plans, big plans, into motion.
Inside the book is the poison formula, and a note that the posion does expire after a few weeks on the surface.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Tuesday July 5th, 2022 9:56:55 PM
Rhys ponders what has been learned from the journal. ”bad news if this guy named ‘The Beholder’ is actually a Beholder…I have heard stories about them.”. The elf helps organize and pack up those things they intend to deliver to the Cathedral. ”We should probably suggest a visit to Jason’s office at the school to see if there is anything else there. I am sure they would be anxious to cooperate to avoid being tarnished by association with Jason and his friends.”
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 17/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Tuesday July 5th, 2022 10:35:15 PM
Kwarsk says to Rhys, "When you say 'suggest,' do you mean suggest to our employer at the Black Cathedral? If so, I agree - Black Cathedral first, the school and other locations afterwards. Although... if we're going to walk into another place where there might be people ready to fight, say, any of Jason's friends, then we should consider resting and healing between the Black Cathedral and our next stop."
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 17/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Tuesday July 5th, 2022 11:09:48 PM
Unless someone locates a cart in the next few minutes, Fingers will gag the sleeping thugs, and wrap each up in a handy cloak or sack or something.
Okay, let's quit jawing and get moving before these two wake up. I'll take the lighter one; Grothic, you get the other, unless you're feeling ambitious and want to carry them both.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 13 HP: 19/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/4 Wednesday July 6th, 2022 12:24:28 AM
Myre frowns, then realizes she's been doing that a lot lately. Hmm...
"It says how long it lasts 'on the surface'? Suppose that means we're dealing with my underground cousins." She pauses and tilts her head. "You know, I've never met another dark elf who didn't live on the surface. That's not important now, I guess. Anyway, are we sure that the rest of the school isn't in on all this? We already trusted one stupid cultist from there. It would not reflect well on us if we made that same mistake again." She pokes at the journal. "Did this say anything about that, or was he the bad apple in that bushel?"
Grothic (Jonathan) rage rounds 5/6 Wednesday July 6th, 2022 11:32:01 AM
Grothic hoists one of the thugs to his shoulders.
Can we interrogate these two before we turn them in? If the poison lasts weeks above the surface, then there's a good chance one of these buildings has a tunnel to the underground around here.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 Wednesday July 6th, 2022 2:17:42 PM ”I’m in agreement with Kwarsk. Anything more taxing than turning these fellows in, reporting to Barem, and maybe tidying up this place and making it suitable for habitation, would best be undertaken after a long rest.”
Turning to Fingers the half elf asks the Minotaur if he has the ability to secure the front and back entrances with locks or alarms. ”We don’t want any ‘undesirables’ taking up residence whilst we’re out!”
(OOC: did Paige or Nintos learn anything about the acolyte’s robe?)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 17/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Wednesday July 6th, 2022 8:35:59 PM I can whip up something up, but it will take a little while. Somebody just barricade the rear door, then get going. I'll change the lock on the front door, toss in some sleepy poison, and meet you at the Cathedral.
DM Melvin Wednesday July 6th, 2022 8:56:05 PM
Rhys hopes this is a non-literal nickname, and considers contacting Jason's school. Myre wonders if there are others from the school but you don't really have any more leads - this looks like the core of the poisoner's guild.
Kwarsk is ready to bring it all back to the Cathedral.
Fingers finishes tying the thugs up - no escaping for them - and is ready to move.
Myre realizes the poison is for the underground drow. Grothic wonders if they should search for the drow on their own. Paige is ready to just return to the cathedral.
Paige and Nintos take a closer look at the "acolyte's robes," but they seem non-magical, cleric's robes.
---------------
Things move fairly quickly as the team approaches the black cathedral. Prisoners and dead are promptly taken, and the various priests look upon the group with awe. It is clear that the Bureau is composed of rookies no longer. (You also have the option to give them the formula and/or the poison samples, or you can hold on to them for a bit longer.)
Berem himself looks pleased. "Gentlemen, ladies, a great congratulations on the final defeat of the poisoner's guild. Clearly, clearly, I was a major genius for hiring you all. Now, before we settle up, are there any final reports or questions?"
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 16/16 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:13 CMB:1 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:4 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 Wednesday July 6th, 2022 9:36:43 PM
With a slight twinge of disappointment, Nintos takes off the Necromancer’s robes but puts them in his bag.
As the arrive at the Black Cathedral, Nintos decides he doesn’t have an interest in the poison samples or the formula. That is more for the alchemist of the Wold, and doesn’t chime in when it comes to giving them either.
“Thank you Berem, it was quite the team effort. I have yet to be with a band of adventurers, but this one is quite the strategic party. I will need to study battle strategies to come up to their knowledge.”
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 17/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Thursday July 7th, 2022 2:26:08 AM
[OOC: I missed the part about the formula. Fingers will keep the book and the samples.]
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Thursday July 7th, 2022 8:08:51 AM
Rhys takes his time and and carefully lays out his report. ”Berem, there are a number of loose ends that need further investigation; Who is ‘The Beholder’ and what does he or she want, and the same for the SharasTel? What more information can be found in Jason’s office at the school, and is the school itself further involved? what has become of the stolen robes from your cathedral and what further use might they be put to? And finally, what of our pay? Surely a bonus for our success is in order.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 13 HP: 19/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/4 Thursday July 7th, 2022 12:50:22 PM
Myre decides she doesn't like this guy very much, but keeps that opinion to herself until she gets paid.
She wonders if her and these new companions should just take it on themselves to find this Beholder person, even if the Black Cathedral wants the matter done with. She puts a pin in that until Berem responds to Rhys' inquiry.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 Thursday July 7th, 2022 4:32:01 PM
Paige supports Rhys adding a detail, here or there as he debriefs and concluding your immediate problems with the poisoners guild may have been resolved, but there is more going on with these villains and their expressed desire to have control over what is Gargul’s dominion - they wish to have exercise ‘power over death’!”
When the elven fighter mentions a ‘bonus’ Paige suggests some paperwork granting the party ownership of the Pumpkin Patch might be in order.
The cleric thinks the ‘shop’ is big enough to be both a place to live and work - with the laboratory for the tinkerers, a courtyard for exercise and the practise of martial arts. Maybe there is a space for her to run a small free clinic as thanks to Domi for his blessings?
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 17/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday July 7th, 2022 5:55:16 PM
Kwarsk waits for his opportunity, and then asks, "Berem, that 'Pumpkin Patch' seems like it would make a great base of operations for our group. How do we go about getting the legal right to live there, or even to own it outright?"
Grothic (Jonathan) rage rounds 5/6 Thursday July 7th, 2022 6:43:53 PM
Grothic returns the staff to the group's gear. He mumbles something about wood flexibility and centeredness and needing to start from scratch on a dire flail.
DM Melvin Thursday July 7th, 2022 9:57:12 PM
Most people give reports and thanks. Some have questions, but they will wait for another time.
Fingers decides to keep the formula and the samples for now, and nobody else volunteers the information. (Berem for his part doesn't seem to have given the possibility of this knowledge any thought.)
Myre wonders if they should strike out on their own. Paige notes that dark forces may still arise, but Berem reminds them to take the win. Of course, they will have to follow up on these leads, but that's for intelligence at the moment.
Grothic mutters at the inability to turn a staff into a flail.
Paige and Kwarsk ask if they can get ownership of the shop.
"I agree with you that the Pumpkin Patch would make an excellent base of operations, once repairs are made, but I'm afraid we have a problem."
Berem's smile began to break out. "It would appear that with the approval of our superiors and the council that you now already have ownership of the property in question, at our expense. So if I ask them to do the paperwork again, they might not like that."
After a chuckle. "You all did earn this, and we are glad to provide a base of operations. A little reminder that we take this group seriously, no matter how strapped for cash and separate from the government we may be. I should note that we are covering living expenses and food, but your group will have to pay for repairs and upgrades."
Also as agreed upon, Berem pays the promised 200 gp per PC (1600 gp total), and a wand of CLW (CL2) with 40 charges.
"Or, I guess you can go on your own, but I do hope we can work together again in the future." Berem sighs. "I hope you'll be sticking around the quarter. We need more good folk like you."
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 17/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Thursday July 7th, 2022 11:22:56 PM Oh, Berem -- no one told you about the formula, did they? One of these books had the formula for the sleep potion; if you want, I'll send you a copy. They also had a box of the potions; we'd like to keep them to use in the service of good.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Friday July 8th, 2022 3:15:48 PM
Rhys likes the idea of being on retainer with the Cathedral as long as it is not exclusive. He gratefully accepts his portion of the gold and suggests that Paige be the recipient of the wand. Will you be following up on Jason’s office at the school? Or is that something for another time?” he asks.
Once they are away from the Cathedral Rhys suggests holding Fenfaren’s share as a party share to put towards healing potions or security for their new digs. “We definitely need to rename the Pumpkin Patch, and for that matter come up with a name for ourselves if we intend to hire ourselves out.” he adds.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 Friday July 8th, 2022 8:59:29 PM ”I’ll tKe that thank you very much!” Paige says as she takes the wand of curing from the administrator’s hand and tucks it into her belt. She collects the bounty as well. ”Repairs, eh? she mutters under her breath…wondering how much the costs might set the party back.
On the way back to the shop, she queries Kwarsk and Rhys about what they saw when they explored the basement, and the upper floors of the building.
(OOC: any chance of a map or floor plan of the building?)
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Sunday July 10th, 2022 7:45:11 PM
Berem once again thanks the group for their service to the City and its' people. He turns down the offer of a copy of the poison formula. I think the less people that know about that, the better. I would caution you to limit its' use as there was a recent scare in the City over that stuff, and you don't want to give people the idea they have traded one set of poisoners for another. Some of the paladins of the Church may also take exception, so I am going to file that part deep in the report.
Berem is not aware of any other issues at the necromancy school, but agrees they will need to be watched more closely.
As for the Patch, it is yours to do with as you wish. Certainly the property is large enough for many uses, so it's up to you to decide.
OOC- Greetings! I am back in the DM chair.
A job well done
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Monday July 11th, 2022 4:40:43 PM
Rhys rethinks what he saw when exploring the upstairs s of the ‘Patch’. ”I think it may have once been some kind of factory or perhaps just a warehouse but wood and plaster walls have been erected upstairs to divide the space up into separate rooms. Four lie along the front wall with windows overlooking the street. They push open from the bottom. There are 4 more rooms of equal size lining the back wall overlooking the courtyard with similar windows. The floors are wooden, maybe pine, maybe spruce, and there is a closet of some kind at the far end of the building. I think it holds cleaning supplies. A second small room sits at the other end with what looks like a wash basin and maybe a lav. There seems to be some kind of access to the roof, makes me wonder if there is a cistern up there. Not much in the way of furniture, some simple beds, a few wooden chairs. Looks like it was meant as only temporary housing for the thugs.”.
The elf stops to think about the main floor and court yard, ” I’m pretty sure I saw a fireplace downstairs in the back, might have been used to cook up some of the poisons, could maybe be used as a kitchen. It was dark back there so I didn’t get much of a look.”
Myre (Carl) -- AC 12/12/10 CMD: 13 HP: 19/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/4 Monday July 11th, 2022 4:47:06 PM
Myre has many thoughts flying through her head. Only one manages to escape. "Hey, we got all the bug and human corpses out of there, right? Otherwise it's going to start getting ripe. That smell does not wash off easily." She looks around, hoping someone has an answer.
Whatever that answer is, she'll give Berem a little curtsy. "Thank you, and please thank the higher-ups as well! We will take good care of the patch." She considers it a foregone conclusion that they will be keeping the name "The Pumpkin Patch" for their new base. She counts all her companions on her fingers. Seven bodies, including a minotaur. She hopes there's more to the patch than the body-strewn bits they saw.
Grothic (Jonathan) rage rounds 5/6 Monday July 11th, 2022 7:40:19 PM Do we have a blacksmith among us and could the fireplace be converted to a forge?
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 Monday July 11th, 2022 8:55:53 PM
On arriving back at the ‘store’ Paige goes looking for the cleaning supplies, claims a bedroom, and gets to work setting it in order. Once the room meets her standards, she moves downstairs to the common rooms and sets to work with broom, dust cloth, and wash bucket - muttering about cleanliness being next to godliness, by Domi!.
As she works, her mind returns to the events of the last few days and the troubles plaguing the quarter where the group will now be making a home. Looks like there will be lots of work to do!
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Monday July 11th, 2022 9:23:37 PM
The team sets about with some cleaning and some discussion is started on the layout and how rooms may be adjusted. Most possibilities can be accomplished with a bit of work. There is plenty of opportunity.
Later in the morning, a wagon stops by and drops off some mundane supplies and tools. There is also about a week's worth of food. Nothing fancy, but it should tide you over for now. The laborers pass a message from Berem leaving no mystery to the source of the supplies. There is also a note detailing the incarceration of the two thugs you captured, and that all the bodies have been consecrated and taken care of by the Church.
In the afternoon, Musetta and Isabella show up, with ten more orphans in tow. Hey, we heard you moved in. It will be great to have some nice neighbors. Would you like some help cleaning up?
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 17/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Monday July 11th, 2022 10:28:29 PM
Kwarsk looks around, finds Nintos, and says, "Well, Nintos, perhaps you and I can guide our young friends in helping out while our fellow adventurers make plans?" Kwarsk smiles.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Monday July 11th, 2022 11:08:23 PM
Muuru puts himself in charge of security and alchemy. He starts organizing the lab, cataloguing, and making a special section for items he does not recognize.
Next, he starts planning locks and traps for the whole building, starting with the doors and ground-level windows. See if there are any likely places for secret exits or passages. While he's at it, Last, he'll plan locks for the individual quarters, plus traps at the residents' request. That's when it occurs to him to claim a room for himself.
Are those eight rooms larger than 10 x 10 feet? If not, they'll be cramped for Muuru. Not to mention that he'd like to move his tools here from the alley he's been using.
Maybe he can set up a "workshop" in the courtyard? Need a shed or something to keep the weather out. Hmmm....
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 16/16 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:13 CMB:1 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:4 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 Tuesday July 12th, 2022 8:14:27 AM
As Nintos receives his payment from Berem he nods; “Thank you! I hope we can work together again also!.”
Upon returning to the Pumpkin Patch; “Rhys is right, we do need to rename this place. And a new coat of paint on the front would give it the facelift it needs under new ownership.”.
Pulling out the gold from selling off the extra loot; “The stuff we sold gained us an extra 1648 gold.” counting it out, Nintos makes 8 purses; “there are eight of us, so we each get 206 gold.”
Leaving his pile of gold on the table; “I did take the spellbook from the Necromancer. I am excited to learn what is within. I know others did not get any upgrades, I am willing to divide my gold among those who did not gain anything.” Looking at Myre & Grothic; “I am not going to say you two should do the same, but we did get some cool items.”
Nintos takes his gold and divides it into 5 even piles of 41 gold 2 silver for Fenfaren, Fingers, Kwarsk, Paige, and Rhys to take if they desire. [b]“Please. The better equipped we all are, but better further adventures will be.” Nintos will collect any of his share that is not taken.
When Musetta and Isabella show up and offers to help he smiles; “Many hands makes light work, and we have a lot of work to do if we are going to turn this into a base of operations.” Nintos begins by collecting files that we do not need to be turned over to the cathedral. Just because we don’t need them doesn’t mean they can’t help someone else. And he sets off to work.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Tuesday July 12th, 2022 10:06:01 AM
Rhys declines Nintos’ offer to share his gold. ”Keep you share friend. I simply trust that when I find some magic thing of use to me, that there will be no argument. As for the share for Fenfaren, I suggest we simply keep that as a common share and use it to support us all, whether it be to fix up this place or to buy healing or magical services as required. If Fenfaren returns we can turn whatever remains back to him. And since we are only seven, I suggest Fingers take the last two rooms at the front and knock out the dividing wall to accommodate his…his…well you know what I mean.”
Rhys claims one of the rooms overlooking the courtyard. ”Perhaps an open air space like the courtyard is the better place for a forge than indoors, we could build one near the outer wall and away from the building itself so as to avoid any unfortunate accidents.”
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Tuesday July 12th, 2022 10:16:36 AM Myre looks at the stack of coins in her hand, then admires her new bracers. She'd never had to worry about coins before, but she knew the bracers were worth considerably more than the gold. She adds her coins next to the stacks of 5 that Nintos created. "You're right, though I do hope we can all be more friends than business partners. I'd hate to end up coppering and silvering each other."***
Now that the trivialities were dealt with, she turns her attention to the important matter at hand. "Wait, we're not going to call it The Pumpkin Patch still?" She scratches her head. "I'm not sure you're all thinking big picture here." She sweeps both arms around, palms up, inviting everyone to consider their surroundings. As she's bringing her arms back in, her right arm reaches behind her and snags Waddles from her pack. She begins stroking his head. "We're in the Nightmare Quarter. This place oozes with...what's the word...kitsch? Yes, kitsch. I think the name is perfect...though maybe we should actually grow some pumpkins."
She trails off, lost in thought. She looks down at her pig & cocks her head. Her eyes furrow just a bit and the corner of her lip turns down. Her voice is barely audible when she speaks, "and where did you come from? It's still nap time..."
Over the next few days, Myre aids in cleaning. It turns out she has a real knack for it, though she never touches a broom, mop, or rag. Instead, she uses a combination of prestidigitation and mending. The results are impressive nonetheless. There's a faint citrus and rosemary smell that lingers for an hour or so after she's done. She relaxes noticeably as she polishes the group's new home.
***OOC: House rules state we have a maximum amount of wealth per character level. The item Myre took puts her right at that 1000gp limit for a 2nd level character, so she can't hold onto the gold. If ya'll don't want to take the share from the those of us who got goodies, we should add it to the party's coffers.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 d20+8=15 ; Tuesday July 12th, 2022 4:16:18 PM ”That smells really nice, Myre” volunteers the cleric as she sniffs the air. Paige collects her share of the reward, but frowns at the coins left on the table by those who have claimed magical gear. ”I’m with Rhys. If we come across something that, you know, has ‘cleric’ written all over it…well…” she looks down at the very special wand tucked into her belt before continuing ”anyway, I suggest you spend your coin on a potion or two of curing to keep on your person…just in case”.
Hands on hips, Paige will study the orphans (Sense Motive = 15) knowing that their antecedents were questionable. Then she will capitulate, and give them each a cursory examination to get a general idea as to their overall health before putting them to work picking rocks and creating an even surface for martial practice in the courtyard.
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Tuesday July 12th, 2022 9:04:55 PM
Everyone continues to clean, and with the help of the orphans and a bit of magic the place is starting to shape up. There is some discussion on a new name for the building, and the orphans cheerily join in with numerous suggestions, but the choice is ultimately up to the group.
Some of the rooms upstairs are larger than standard size, and Muuru does find one of them to be perfectly comfortable.
Paige finds the orphans are genuinely pleased to have you moving in here, and are not up to any mischief. They are not malnourished, and seem well enough fed. Things are not perfect for them, but they have enough to eat.
One of the orphans asks if your group is going to sign up with the WLA. That would be pretty cool!
OOC- split 7 ways for now, we can catch Fenfaren back up upon his return. Also, I think we are ok exceeding WBL for now, considering the cost of low level items.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 17/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Tuesday July 12th, 2022 9:19:17 PM
Kwarsk watches the orphans get to work, smiling at how eager they are to help, and then considers - if we're neighbors to the orphans, and if our base is attacked, they could be at risk... Kwarsk ponders on this a bit, and elects to finish the thoughts with a group conversation once all of the orphans have gone back to their residence.
Kwarsk waits until all of the heroes are in the same vicinity, and says, "Say, do any of you know where we could get a decent map of the surrounding area, say covering at least a few days' travel in every direction? Our future jobs might involve travel outside the city, and I'd rather we have good maps on hand than just rely on whatever maps our patrons might offer us."
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Wednesday July 13th, 2022 1:13:19 AM
[OOC There are still unclaimed alchemical items (potions, thundertwigs, etc.) I'm claiming them so our quartermaster is not tempted to sell them. If anyone still wants some, feel free to take it from me on the spreadsheet.]
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Wednesday July 13th, 2022 4:09:40 PM
When the kids from the orphanage show up he enlists those he can to help him scrounge up any good solid bricks from the damaged and abandoned buildings in the area. ”they need to be good and solid mind you” he reminds them. ”I am going to build a small forge and they will need to stand up to some very hot fires!”. Rhys pays the children in copper pieces for each brick they return with, albeit not all are as sound as he had hoped. Once there is a reasonable pile he thanks them for all their hard work and begins to lay out the bricks in the the shape of a simple rectangle with an opening near the front, a vent at the top to allow the fumes to escape, and another slot low down at the back where the bellows would insert. Satisfied he jots down a few items that will be needed to complete the work, heavy tongs, an anvil, some hammers, a grindstone and a water trough for cooling the forged metal. He shares his notes with Grothic and shows him the roughed in forge to see if it meets with his approval.
Grothic (Jonathan) rage rounds 5/6 Wednesday July 13th, 2022 4:46:17 PM
Grothic tries to pretend 206 gold pieces isn't heavy. He finds his companions and speaks in a whisper.
Are the children staying? I had half a mind to adopt Musetta earlier, but now we've made enemies and this home we're building wouldn't be too hard for them to figure out. I watched the boat I grew up on burn until it sant, and no doubt there were souls still aboard. My conscience couldn't see children suffering the same fate. Orphans, no less.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Wednesday July 13th, 2022 5:11:30 PM Yeah, it's probably best if they continue to reside at the orphanage. We can still provide for them...oh, there's my ride!
A two-wheeled horse-cart has pulled up to the courtyard gate. Muuru addresses the youngsters. This fellow is going to help me fetch my equipment. Anyone want to ride over and help me load it up?
[OOC: I've hired the horse and driver, but I've purchased the cart outright. If we ever have an out-of-town mission, we may get horses, but I'm too big to ride one. Besides, the cart will be useful for the loot.]
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 Wednesday July 13th, 2022 7:58:19 PM ”Some of us are already signed up! Paige tells the kids, showing them her WLA badge, and pointing out the elven fighter constructing the small forge in the courtyard. ”Didn’t do us much good, though. The cleric was sorely disappointed by her first visit and the general lack of information provided to her and Rhys by the WLA folks when they made their first visit to the league.
”We could probably pay the WLA headquarters a second visit, though. They might have a map for you, Kadaz. What do you think?”
If the dwarf is interested, Paige would willingly accompany him to Adventurers Square and the building that is the headquarters for the Woldian Legue of Adventurers. ”We could check out the job boards while we’re in the area, and see if there is anything worth investigating.”
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Wednesday July 13th, 2022 9:58:08 PM
Kwarsk makes some inquiries regarding maps. Some of the orphans offer to draw some for you, but these may not be as detailed as you might like. One of them suggests that someplace in the City probably has some for sale. Maybe the WLA?
Fingers completes some inventory of the remaining alchemical items. He can hand some of it out if needed.
Rhys begins construction of a forge. The orphans do turn up a useful number of bricks. These kind are mostly used in building construction, but they should work for now. If the forge sees serious use, an upgrade may need to be looked at later. Rhys can pass along the requested list to Berem, he may be able to send the tools the following week. (Do you want to locate this across from the alchemy lab?)
There is some discussion about the orphans to which they seem to pay close attention. They are disappointed about not moving in, but all seem very glad the group will provide them with some support and help.
Fingers acquires a cart, planning ahead. It may prove useful.
The orphans crowd around to see Paige's WLA badge. Some of them say they want to join someday too. If the group pays another visit, hopefully they can be more helpful this time.
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 16/16 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:13 CMB:1 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:4 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 d20+9=15 ; Wednesday July 13th, 2022 10:52:55 PM
[OOC]I have divided the 1648 by 7, each of us will receive 235.[OOC] [OOC]Consumables like Alchemical Items I won’t sell because we will never know when we will need them. Fingers, if you claim them I will move them to the claimed list under your name.[OOC]
“Not everyone is made for the Woldian League of Adventurers.” He says with a smile. “Some of us have a more arcane approach to life…” Nintos turns to in the Pumpkin Patch and with an incantation He uses Mage Hand to life up a few mundane items, and Open/Close to open and shut the closest door. “Do any of you have an interest in the arcane?”
Nintos spends a little bit of the free time testing to see if any of the orphans have an innate ability of magic If any of these orphans had just a spark of arcane ability within them the Star Mages would take them in as adepts or apprentices. That would be a much better life for them. He thinks to himself.
With the offer of a trip to the WLA from Fingers, Nintos chimes in “The WLA headquarters? I have never been there. I think I might just get in the way of handling your equipment. I will continue with the work around here.”
Nintos looks over the Necromancers Spellbook again. (Spellcraft 15) I might have to just ready the Read Magic spell for tomorrow He thinks to himself.
If given the time, not sure what time of day it is, but as evening approaches Nintos will scribe a scroll of Grease. 2 Hours of work if allowed.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Wednesday July 13th, 2022 11:33:12 PM "I'm pretty sure a bunch of caster types are in the WLA." In fact, she's 100% sure there are. She scratches her head at the orphans' disappointment about not moving in. Surely they didn't think that was going to happen?
Of course, if a few of them show themselves to be trust worthy, they could help keep an eye on their Patch if work ever takes them away.
"That reminds me," she says to no one in particular. "I haven't picked out my room yet." She looks around to see what's available. She might be the smallest member in the party, so she'll save the bigger rooms for others. She doesn't need much space.
She stops for a moment to tell Waddles, in no uncertain terms, that he does not get his own room...and also that he doesn't get the bed in their room to himself.
Once that's settled, Myre tears the place apart, making sure there weren't any lingering varmints or critters left over from those experiments.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 17/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday July 14th, 2022 12:19:55 AM
Kwarsk says, "The Woldian League of Adventurers? I've never heard of them other than the brief mention a few days ago, but now you have me curious. I'll go along and see what they have to offer - perhaps you're right and they do have good maps?"
While waiting for the WLA-curious to assemble, Kwarsk takes a quick self-guided tour of the Patch, and picks out a room on the second floor, closest to the staircase landing so that he has a better chance to hear any intruders creeping about at night, especially now that he's been trained by the Monks of Pantheon in honing his senses.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 Thursday July 14th, 2022 9:34:13 AM
The half-elf isn’t worried about walking the streets of Plateau City in broad daylight and sets out with any companions who are interested. She will take the most direct route - even taking a taxi barge along part of the Endless River. ”My mother was based out of The City, but settled in Magpie Crossing after meeting my father. I’ve always wanted to see it myself.”
Paige will explain what she knows* about the WLA, and suggests a quick trip to the Catacombs for a little shopping might be in order as well.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Thursday July 14th, 2022 10:17:46 AM
Rhys completes his list of requirements to finish the small forge he has laid out (1 anvil, 2 sets of tongues, 2 hammers, 1 smaller hammer, 1 poker, 1 box bellows, 1 grinding wheel) and drops it off along with a note asking for Berem’s assistance in procuring the items. He then joins Paige, Kwarsk and the others headed to the WLA headquarters. Along the way he will take note of any weapon smiths and other forges where he might buy raw steel and other components for the forge.
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Thursday July 14th, 2022 9:00:53 PM
Nintos questions some of the orphans, they indicate it might be neat if he stopped by the orphanage sometime and tested them all. Maybe they are all adepts? There is much excited chatter at the possibility.
Myre does some cleaning and makes sure Waddles understands how much space he gets in their new room.
Kwarsk picks a room, and agrees to tag along to the WLA with anyone else who may wish to go.
Paige leads the group out to visit the WLA. The orphans pack up and leave for home, but not before getting a few promises of a near future visit by the group.
Rhys sends the request to Berem via messenger, and joins the trek to the WLA.
On the way to the Dragon Quarter, the group hires the cheap and reliable taxi barge to get them there. It is a little slower than other methods of transport, but it is scenic and has the benefit of reducing the interaction with local crowds.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Friday July 15th, 2022 12:00:54 AM
Sure, I'll tag along to the WLA. (By the way, I bought a wagon, not a cart.)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Friday July 15th, 2022 12:01:01 AM Yeah, it's probably best if they continue to reside at the orphanage. We can still provide for them...oh, there's my ride!
A two-wheeled horse-cart has pulled up to the courtyard gate. Muuru addresses the youngsters. This fellow is going to help me fetch my equipment. Anyone want to ride over and help me load it up?
[OOC: I've hired the horse and driver, but I've purchased the cart outright. If we ever have an out-of-town mission, we may get horses, but I'm too big to ride one. Besides, the cart will be useful for the loot.]
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Friday July 15th, 2022 1:13:39 AM
Myre flexes her arm and pats her bicep. "You need muscle, eh? Well let's go!" She hops on the cart.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Friday July 15th, 2022 4:14:45 PM
The water taxi provides a relaxing break along the way, one that Rhys exploits by lolling about the deck and enjoying the view. When they arrive in the Adventurer’s Quarter the elf follows Paige into the WLA headquarters and looks for someone to report his findings to. He explains the role of Jason and potential links to the school of necromancy and tells them of the links to the Sharas Tel and a leader called the beholder and their threatened plans for wider spread mayhem.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 17/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Friday July 15th, 2022 5:48:41 PM
Kwarsk, riding the water taxi, looks like he's still getting used to the idea of a horizon, his gaze often returning to a distance of no more than sixty feet away, then suddenly looking up and far again along the length of the river.
Once at the WLA, Kwarsk files in behind Rhys and awaits his turn to ask about regional maps.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 Friday July 15th, 2022 8:18:06 PM
Paige makes sure her WLA badge is all shined up and worn where it can be seen. Whilst Rhys shares information with an officer of the league, she looks about for someone who might be available to help her procure maps of The City* (since she’s ‘new’ to the place) and to help her friend Kwarsk with information and maps of the environs beyond it.
* (OOC: I’d be happy with the knowledge that the maps of Plateau City and it’s various quarters are the same as what is available in the Woldpedia.)
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Saturday July 16th, 2022 2:14:42 PM Myre realizes she doesn't know what she signed up for. She turns, then looks way up into Muuru's eyes. "What kinda equipment is so heavy you need help lifting it?"
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 16/16 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:13 CMB:1 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:4 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 d20+9=25 ; d20+9=24 ; Sunday July 17th, 2022 5:48:31 PM
With most of the crew heading off to the WLA, Nintos will make himself comfy in Room 1 at the Pumpkin Patch.
Merletta calls as she pecks at the window. Nintos moves to open the window and look at the rooftop outside of it. “There you are girl, Head on out and see what you can find. Keep an eye out for anyone watching our new home a little too closely.” She flies off and Nintos shuts the window enough that Merletta could get back in. (Perception 18 w/taking 10)
Once Nintos has everything in place he sighs; “Well, this will do. Seems like I have some time to kill.” Knowing that he needs to memorize Read Magic, he goes to work Scribing Scrolls of Grease & Obscuring Mist (Spell Craft 25 & 24 Checks)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Sunday July 17th, 2022 7:52:36 PM Tools, mostly, says Muuru to Myre. Woodworking and metalworking, to make coffers and chests with locks and traps. And some scrap lumber. Nothing's really heavy, but the gang (points over his shoulder to the urchins who joined them in the wagon) and I don't really want to lug it all the way from that alley. Not when I've got our fancy new wagon!
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Sunday July 17th, 2022 10:12:17 PM
With most of the team out, Nintos takes advantage of the downtime.
Fingers meets the team at the WLA with his wagon, and a number of orphans along for the thrilling ride. He will be able to stop on the way back and pick up the tools and supplies he is looking for.
There is a small amount of traffic at the First Chapterhouse, and after a short wait in line a female human clerk asks you to state your business.
The orphans, meanwhile seem to be everywhere, looking at everything. Some of them want to know how old you need to be to join and how much money can you make working for them.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Monday July 18th, 2022 4:02:56 PM
Rhys makes sure that his WLA badge is not obscured by his cloak and approaches the clerk. ”Good Day. My name is Rhys Saelion and I along with my colleague were enlisted in Magpie Crossing and have taken up residence here in your Nightmare Quarter.” Rhys nod towards Paige as he speaks. “In the short time we have been here we have disrupted the activities of a group calling themselves the Poisoner’s Guild. This group was locally led by an instructor named Jason from a necromancy school called the Hollow Pit. This guild had some connection to the Drow and a group called the Sharas Tel who we know little about, except for the name of a leader they call The Beholder. The poison they made and were distributing between cities was based on Drow poisons and was even rumoured to put elves to sleep. WLA branches elsewhere should be alerted to the potential of these poisons and perhaps some deeper plans of these Shara Tel.”
Rhys pauses for a breath and looks to his friends for any further elaboration.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 Monday July 18th, 2022 6:56:14 PM
Paige picks up where Rhys left off. ”We’ve been doing our work at the behest of the Office of Administrative Affairs at the Black Cathedral. Though we may have scotched their plans for the nonce by shutting down the poisoners’ laboratory, I do not think the villains have been routed from the City”.
The cleric does not expect the clerk to be able to do anything, but does know that the Legue’s primary role is to gather local knowledge and information and to offer members situational awareness of events in the Wold.
The half elf will repeat her earlier request regarding the availability of maps - of Plateau City and the various quarters for herself, and of the environs beyond the city, for her friend Kwarsk.
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Monday July 18th, 2022 11:06:23 PM
The clerk is able to provide copies of some maps, free of charge to the WLA members present in the group.
Her name is Sasha, and she has many questions for the group regarding their recent activity. Hmm, that's very interesting. I will make sure all of this gets passed along to the other chapters. That sounds pretty serious and you did well to root them out.
After some tedious minutes of waiting, she finally completes the notes for the log. So, is there anything else I can help with today? Do any of your other friends want to join? Do you want to register your group officially into our logs?
OOC- the maps provided match those found on the wiki page.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Tuesday July 19th, 2022 12:14:57 AM Myre decides not to decide on joining the WLA. Her parents were members, but they didn't talk of it much.
She tries to relax and settle in, but she can't. There was a loose end from their success: this Beholder thingy. She didn't know if that was what they were called, if it was just a metaphor she misunderstood, or if (Wardd forbid) there was an actual beholder involved. She knew good and well that such a beast was beyond her.
A thought occurs to her: did they ever confront that school and demand to have access to Jason's stuff? Seems like something they should have done. She stands, ready to march over there, then stops and looks over at Waddles. She stares into his eyes a moment, then speaks. "Yes, I know I'm part of a team now."
Waddles stares.
"No, I suppose I don't want this to end up like last time."
Waddles stares. Myre sighs, then plops back down on her bed. "Fine. I'll bring it up after they're done at the WLA."
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 Tuesday July 19th, 2022 9:42:04 AM
Paige accepts the maps for Plateau City, rolls them up together, and tucks them into her pack, her business done for the day.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Tuesday July 19th, 2022 4:40:08 PM ”Thank you for your help Sasha. It is probably a bit to early to register our group having just formed, but you can reach me in the Nightmare Quarter at a place known locally as the Pumpkin Patch, or through the Cathdral’s Office of Administrative Affairs if need be.”. Rhys leaves the WLA office with a sense of optimism that he did not have after his first visit.
”Where to next?” he asks the group. ”The Catacombs to look for our next adventure?”
Grothic (Jonathan) rage rounds 5/6 Tuesday July 19th, 2022 6:15:15 PM
Grothic responds to Rhys. Are you sure we have no loose ends with this poison affair? We've killed people, stolen their base of operations and are using it as our home. Are we sure we have rooted out everyone who would seek vengeance upon us later?
[Ooc] is that pronounced Reece or Rice?
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Tuesday July 19th, 2022 7:55:04 PM
With their business at the WLA concluded for now, the team contemplates their next move. Is there unfinished business with the poisoner's guild? The group will need to decide if they want to follow up on any remaining issues......
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Tuesday July 19th, 2022 11:17:24 PM Myre fidgets on her bed a while, trying to relax. She fails. Her balled fists both slam down into the mattress before she gets to her feet, grabs her pack, throws Waddles into it, and stomps out the door in search of her new friends.
She immediately walks back in, fishes Waddles out of her pack, and apologizes before placing him in his usual strap on the exterior of her pack. THEN she stomps back out...
Not wanting to interrupt their training, Myre waits outside the WLA. She paces back and forth with a silent intensity until everyone exits back onto the streets. She quickly walks over to intercept everyone, and gives no preamble when she begins talking. "We're not done, right? Maybe our benefactors are satisfied with us, but we're living in that group's poison den. We need to keep digging, right? Find out who this beholder is?" Her head swivels from person to person, looking for validation.
Grothic (Jonathan) rage rounds 5/6 Wednesday July 20th, 2022 10:17:28 AM I agree, but I also worry that curiosity doesn't pay the bills. Maybe we can spend some time figuring out who they are specifically to find someone else that will pay us to find out who they are.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Wednesday July 20th, 2022 5:42:36 PM ”We can always stop by the Hollow Pit on the way back to the Patch and ask to search Jason’s office for any clues to who he has dealt with but the Catacombs is just around the corner so why not have a quick visit while we are here?”
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Wednesday July 20th, 2022 5:49:05 PM
[OOC hadn't posted Tuesday before the site went down for a bit, so:
Tuesday: /OOC]
Kwarsk listens to Sasha for a bit and then says, "Sasha, I, Kwarsk, would like to join the WLA. What do I have to do first?"
Kwarsk then turns to Paige and says, "Thanks for getting the maps. The WLA seems like a good outfit to be part of, like our group."
[OOC
Wednesday: /OOC]
Kwarsk listens to Myre and Grothic, and then adds, "I agree with both of you. Myre, yes, we need to more fully investigate the Pumpkin Patch for clues on an ongoing basis - we'll have adventuring jobs, but we should always be looking for more, checking for secret doors or compartments, and so on. Grothic, you're right too - good business sense, thinking of ways to get patrons to pay for what we want and need to do anyways! Maybe some of our charismatic members can ask around town about the Guild and who liked them / hated them, etc while the rest keep eyes and ears open in taverns, and so on?
[OOC DM BrianZ - can we assume that we've had a chance to heal up since the battle yet? (Kwarsk was down to 17/24, but I've updated the header to 24/24 on the assumption that we're healed before our next adventure)]
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 Wednesday July 20th, 2022 5:59:52 PM ”Oh! The immediate threat from Jason and his group may have been dealt with, but I’m sure there is something bigger going on.” Paige volunteers. The cleric wonders what Clarisse is up too, seeing as she wasn’t present at the Black Cathedral when they reported in the past couple of times.
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Wednesday July 20th, 2022 8:49:16 PM
Sasha beams with excitement with Kwarsk joining as a new member. Well, for now, you will just need to take the oath, and promise to uphold the ideals of the WLA. Mostly, those are covered in the oath. Just a moment She retrieves a badge from her desk, holds it out, and asks you to repeat the oath.
“I, (state your name), do solemnly swear to uphold the ideals of the League, to protect the innocent and combat evil wherever I may find it.”
And that's it for now. When you have a little more experience, come back for some training. There will be some dues that need to be processed at that time. The training is valuable, and isn't free. Sasha pins the badge on Kwarsk and welcomes him to the group.
Kwarsk:Highlight to display spoiler: {OOC- Kwarsk may add two skill bonus to the character sheet as outlined in the woldipedia entry for WLA. Please note which these are and keep track as you add more with levels.}
The orphans enjoy the ceremony, and talk excitedly about it afterwards.
There are some suggestions to stop by the Catacombs, visit the Hollow Pit, and track down Clarisse.
OOC- the team has rested since the fight at the Patch, everyone is healed and has spells restored.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Wednesday July 20th, 2022 10:13:21 PM
Fingers is tempted to say "State Your Name" when he gives the oath, but he says "Muuru Murgirun".
[OOC: Remember Finger's plan for locks and traps for the Patch? Can you give me an idea of how much the materials will cost? I'll do it in stages: a) Locks for exterior doors and windows, b) traps for the two or three most "obvious" entry points. c) Locks or traps for some interior doors.
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Thursday July 21st, 2022 11:02:38 AM
Rhys leaves the WLA offices and heads over to the catacombs where he scans the message boards for any help wanted ads before heading for the Hollow Pit and a follow up visit with the officials there.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 d20+9=27 ; Thursday July 21st, 2022 1:06:56 PM
Bills...right. Those were a thing. She's heard stories of notice boards put in large cities advertising opportunities for adventurers, but were they really a thing?
Myre's face lights up when Kwarsk suggests talking to the locals. "People love talking to me. I bet I can find out how well they were liked!" She excitedly bounds out the door and scans the streets for someone who looks "local" enough. She runs up to the first person she sees.
"You! You look like you're from around here. Did you know the people who lived in that Pumpkinless Patch over there?" She points at her new home, then looks straight into the poor soul's eyes. "What did you think of them? Were they liked around here?" She looks a little more intensely into their eyes. "What do you know about them?" She then stands back and smiles, waiting for an answer.
Intimidate: 27 - NOTE: Myre is not TRYING to intimidate anyone, but for her approach it's probably more appropriate than diplomacy.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 Thursday July 21st, 2022 2:51:20 PM
After the brief indoctrination of new WLA members, Paige trails Rhys as he goes to the Catacombs. She reads the job board where they picked up their first bit of work from the Black Cathedral[/b] to see if there are any new opportunities for employment. Afterwards, she follows the elven fighter to the [i]Hallow Pit. ”For all Mavros’s talk about necromancy being misunderstood as a bad thing, I have yet to see something good come out of that school!” Paige opines, adding: ”What do you plan on doing, Rhys, once you get there?”
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Thursday July 21st, 2022 8:09:14 PM
Rhys welcomes Paige’s company. ” l am going to ask to search Jason’s office and lab at the school. If they are reluctant to allow that I will threaten them with the constabulary and ask if their reputation can withstand the scrutiny of their association with the Poisoner’s Guild. I think they would rather have a quiet private investigation than a full blown official and very public inquiry.” .
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Thursday July 21st, 2022 9:26:03 PM
Fingers also takes the WLA oath and receives a badge.(please also add and track the 2 skill bonus to your character sheet) He considers having a bit of fun with the clerk but decides against it.
With a bit of shopping, Fingers can determine that all the typical types of locks and traps can be acquired in this city. (anything in the core book) Berem may be able to supply some of that, but even with the new stipend from his superiors, he can only funnel so many resources to your group every month.
A trip to the Catacombs does not turn up any currently available work, but an employee encourages you to check back soon. Always new opportunities here eh? reminder:Highlight to display spoiler: { dont forget you each get a free level 1 potion, you may add this directly to your sheet, just kindly let your dms know what you picked}
Rhys would like to revisit the Hollow Pit, and follow up with the necromancers. It looks like he has some support.
Myre tries to get some information from their new neighbors, she may not be intimidating, but certainly seems rather convincing. Of those neighbors whom happen to be available, they mostly agree that the poisoners kept to themselves, and seemed strange enough that the nearby residents steered clear of them. Especially at night. They seem glad to have better neighbors if perhaps a little wary of the minotaur setting locks and traps everywhere.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday July 21st, 2022 10:01:55 PM
[OOC re: 7/20 post /OOC]
Kwarsk ponders joking with Sasha by repeating "state your name" in the oath, but is too Lawful to treat something so important so cavalierly.
"I, Kwarsk, ..."
(OOC Kwarsk faithfully takes the whole oath.
Moving on to 7/21 post /OOC)
" Fingers! great choice, my comrade in arms and now fellow WLA member! We'll have to teach each other the secret handshake... or perhaps Rhys or Paige can do that for us?"
(OOC
1 - My son and I are going camping, leaving Friday night, returning Sunday afternoon; if there's a Friday post I hope to get to it on Sunday.
2 - Kwarsk's level 1 potion choice is Shield of Faith; will note on character sheet. /OOC]
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Thursday July 21st, 2022 11:26:44 PM
Muuru selects a Feather Fall potion, and (when adventuring) keeps it in his belt pouch where he can grab it quickly.
[OOC: Could you re-explain the "2 skill bonus"?] DMBZ- will explain in email
Rhys (Bob) AC 17; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Friday July 22nd, 2022 4:04:20 PM
Rhys tucks his new vial of Oil of Bless Weapon into his belt pouch and proceeds to open the door of Hallow Pit.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 16, CMD 13, HP 21/22 Friday July 22nd, 2022 7:12:03 PM
Paige collects a potion of Longstrider and adds it to her kit. She follows Rhys asking him in a low voice, ”you want me to do the talking?”
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Sunday July 24th, 2022 8:41:24 PM
After the WLA visit is complete, the team decides to stop by the Hollow Pit for a bit of follow up. Last chance for discussion before heading in....
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Sunday July 24th, 2022 10:21:49 PM
Kwarsk contemplates for a few moments, then speaks.
"Fellow adventurers, since Jason, a necromancer, was connected to this whole drow sleep poison thing, and we're about to go ask them questions... well, if they're all in on it with him, they might all have the drow sleep poison, and so we might want to stop off at an alchemy shop buy several minor antitoxin doses, and each drink one before we go inside? I'd only recommend this if the inexpensive minor antitoxin doses are for sale - the full dose is a bit steep.
Also, Nintos, perhaps you could dress up in full Necromancer gear and take the lead in talking to them? They might not shoot us full of poison all at once if one of their own appears to be in charge."
[OOC - 1) DM, in the Wold, are those Minor Antitoxin doses on the permanent menu, and 2) if not, are they on the permanent menu in this Nightmare Quarter campaign, specifically?
3) IF the Minor Antitoxins are available, Kwarsk will buy 2, quaff 1 just before entering the Hollow Pit, and log it on the Catacombs later, if necessary. /OOC]
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Sunday July 24th, 2022 10:37:07 PM Myre listens to the locals describe how much better Myre's new friends are than the weird bug people who lived in the patch before, resisting the urge to throw out a "well obviously" at everyone.
Back with her friends, she fills everyone in. "Seems the locals knew something was fishy with Jason and his crew. They're mostly glad we've moved in. This is good news. Maybe we'll even get a welcoming basket of some kind, or some nice homemade cookies!"
She looks askew at Kwarsk's suggestion. Isn't that underestimating their intelligence just a tad? Surely they'll remember us."
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 Monday July 25th, 2022 10:51:41 AM ”Don’t accept any food or drink - if it is offered” suggests Paige, though she doubts refreshments will be provided this time.
She follows the impatient Rhys through the doors and into the foyer of the Hallow Pit advising sotto voce ”diplomacy first my friend!
Rhys (Bob) AC 18; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 d20+5=17 ; Monday July 25th, 2022 5:07:03 PM
Rhys looks about the foyer for the administrator that had staffed the desk on their last visit. If he spots the man he will begin. ”My apologies for the unannounced visit, but these are difficult times. It appears that your school has been implicated in a serious breach of the law through the activities of one of your professors. It will surely be very difficult for a school of necromancy to operate in the open if it is linked to the ‘Poisoner’s Guild’ and so I offer this opportunity to clear the name of the school by cooperating with our continuing investigation in Jason's activities. If you would please show us the way to his office we would be sure to include your assistance in our report.” The elf puts on his most officious manner and stares directly at the administrator (Intimidate 17)
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Monday July 25th, 2022 8:13:13 PM
OOC- the 'lesser' antitoxin was made available for the opening module only.
Upon arrival at the school, a servant answers the door. He leads you to the same waiting area that you were in last time. By the time he returns with refreshments, Mavros has stopped in to greet you.
The Church informed us of Jason's demise, and his role in the poisoner's guild. Of course, we will comply with any official investigation. It is important to me that we are cleared of this matter so that our studies are not interrupted.
I suppose it was inevitable that someone was attracted to this school with less than pure intentions, but I assure you I have no interest in training those who intend to do harm with the knowledge. Now, you want to inspect his room, yes? Umm, perhaps just two or three of you could do it? I'd rather not be disruptive with the entire lot of you stomping about the halls.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Monday July 25th, 2022 9:17:30 PM
Kwarsk contemplates...
Kwarsk turns to his friends and says, "Perhaps Nintos, Grothic, and Fingers could go? I'll take the place of anyone who doesn't want to go, if needed."
Grothic (Jonathan) rage rounds 5/6 Tuesday July 26th, 2022 7:42:10 AM
Grothic will go.
Nintos (Bob for Clint) Tuesday July 26th, 2022 8:55:31 AM ”I will go.” the Wizard answers. Nintos knows his knowledge of arcana may come in use, besides he is curious about the ways of this school and what else might be learned about this institution of learning. The Wizard waits for his escort to lead them to Jason’s office.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Tuesday July 26th, 2022 10:47:51 AM Myre realizes she's not the ideal person to so searching through the room, so she'll hang back and chat with Mavros.
"So Mavros, magic gives off an aura, right? Was he practicing necromancy here? I know necromancy isn't inherently evil, but I'd think it was something that would warrant some oversight."
Rhys (Bob W) d20+1=7 ; Tuesday July 26th, 2022 11:13:15 AM
Rhys waits to see who else will be searching Jason’s office. He remains suspicious of all associated with the school and especially Mavros (Sense Motive =7).
Rhys (Bob W) d20+1=7 ; Tuesday July 26th, 2022 11:51:23 AM
Rhys waits to see who else will be searching Jason’s office. He remains suspicious of all associated with the school and especially Mavros (Sense Motive =7).
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 d20+6=25 ; Tuesday July 26th, 2022 5:45:11 PM
The cleric had been considering the use of her magics to spot dangers from evil or poison, but she shrugs her shoulder’s and stays back in the foyer, when Kwarsk suggests that others search Jason’s chambers. She looks about for the servant she had seen at their last visit…the one with the limp. (Perception = 25)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Tuesday July 26th, 2022 10:16:46 PM Sure, I'll go. Not everyone is paranoid enough to trap their room, but I gotta keep in practice.
Hey, Grothic, are okay? It looks like your Rage is still going.
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Tuesday July 26th, 2022 11:43:38 PM
Nintos, Grothic and Fingers go to check out the room.
Meanwhile, Paige, Myre, Kwarsk and Rhys are entertained by Mavros. Well, we are all 'practicing' necromancy, but studying would probably fit better. I have set the rules for those who come here, but I can't watch everyone, every hour of the day. Come, I will show you something, maybe you will be convinced.
Mavros leads the team to a laboratory. The limping servant you met previously is here. And now you see the reason for his limp, he is missing a leg. Mavros explains, he lost it in an accident. He would not have survived without our help. While some would have given him crutches to 'walk' with, we are trying to give him a new leg. We are using necromancy give him a new leg, one powered by necromantic energy. Instead of begging on the streets for scraps to eat, he can be productive again. We are still working on it though, so it looks natural. The bond is still not perfect and causes a limp.
The first team is shown to Jason's room by a servant. I have been instructed to tell you that you may take whatever you need for the investigation or as compensation. He had no relatives that we know of, and the Church has not requested anything more than a payment for the services provided. Whatever remains will be donated when you are through. As the servant leaves, you can look over the room. There is a desk, bed, trunk, and an armoire with clothing. There are a few books on a shelf above the desk.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Wednesday July 27th, 2022 12:10:14 AM Myre's eyes practically bulge when Mavros shows her the man's leg. She eagerly runs up to the limping servant and boldly states, "May I please see it?!" She kneels down and stares at the leg, excitedly waiting for the man to raise his pant leg. Somewhere, in the excitement, she's retrieved Waddles. She grips the pig tightly in front of her, as if letting him see first.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Wednesday July 27th, 2022 1:46:09 AM
Fingers does a slow, careful search. Perception check, Take 20, result: 25 (or 26 to find any traps). He urges the others to do the same.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 Wednesday July 27th, 2022 9:36:30 AM
Paige stands back and studies the servant as Myre moves forward. ”This ‘new’ leg of which you speak, Mavros, where did it come from?” The cleric is half fearful of the answer .
Nintos (Bob W for Clint) Wednesday July 27th, 2022 7:24:18 PM
Nintos moves carefully through the room, trailing fingers as he searches for traps. Once he has cleared the bookshelf, the Wizard examines the books and checks for any margin notes or papers that might be concealed within.
Rhys (Bob W) Wednesday July 27th, 2022 7:25:57 PM
Rhys listens to Mavrosk explanation, but otherwise remains alert to anything amiss, or any calls for assistance from the team sent off to search Jason’s office.
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Wednesday July 27th, 2022 9:11:30 PM
The servant, Boris, is hesitant, but he shows you his 'new' leg. As you may suspect, it is animated 'dead' flesh.
Mavros explains. The leg came from a pirate who died trying to raid one of the ships coming into port. We did get permission from the Church, although we had to agree to a number of concessions. We did not, and will not rob any cemeteries. The gentle repose spell used will keep it from decaying. It was acquired pretty quickly after the incident, and is still in good shape, although it is not a perfect size match.
I hope you can see where this could help people. No commoners could afford a regeneration from the church. We are hoping to find better, and more permanent, arcane solutions to help people.
Fingers examines the room for traps, and does find something on the trunk. A quick flick with a pick, and the poison needle is disabled. Fingers isn't sure, but it may be the sleep poison, and if so, may no longer be virulent depending on how long since it was applied.
You already have his spellbook, and the rest of the bookshelf appears to be pretty standard fare. There are books on herbalism, alchemy, poisons, necromancy, and other similar topics. If using an hour to reference, they would provide a +1 circumstance bonus on a knowledge check in these fields. Alternatively, they can be sold to appropriate experts for 100gp total.
The trunk contains a few items, which glow with a magic aura when Nintos checks. You also find a journal. It is mostly filled with notes on the trial and error of trying to perfect the sleep poison, and that there would be 'consequences' if the group did not perform well for their benefactor, someone or something? called beholder. There are also a few references to drow, but whether they were involved, or simply subject of discussion since it was their poison the guild was trying to make, are not completely clear.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Wednesday July 27th, 2022 9:33:42 PM
Kwarsk looks somewhat unnerved at the explanation for the reanimated leg. He makes a mental note to ask a senior priest of Pantheon about this later, since it's unnerving, but Boris is clearly alive, or at least nine tenths of him.
Kwarsk looks to Paige and says, "Paige, what is this 'gentle repose' spell? It sounds more divine than arcane, doesn't it?"
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Wednesday July 27th, 2022 10:53:29 PM
[b]I vote we keep the books. Having our own library will help me to craft your tinderstones and thundertwigs and stuff.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Thursday July 28th, 2022 12:38:18 AM
The amount of willpower it takes not to poke the man's leg is legendary, but Myre behaves. She looks up, confused as Mavros speaks. "The church had a problem with you repurposing a dead man's leg? Why? Is that where they think the soul is kept or something?" She looks back at the leg and mumbles under her breath, "not like the pirate needed it. Serves him right to hobble along in the Plane of Shadow for being a stupid pirate. Better this nice custodian who brings us snacks use it."
Still kneeling, she turns Waddles around and looks into his eyes. The two stare for about 5 seconds before she blurts out, "nobody has that much flesh just lying around! It's preposterous!" She stuffs Waddles back onto his strap on her pack with a huff. She turns her attention back to the dead-legged custodian. "Does it hurt? Can you feel it at all?" She casually grabs her left hand with her right one, making sure it behaves. She turns back to Mavros. "Could you not...trim it to size? Maybe take a little off the top?" She ponders her own question. "No, I bet the knees wouldn't line up." She chuckles happily before adding, "and it's not like you can take any off the bottom. That's where the foot is!" She beams up at the custodian and Mavros. "Anyway, I think it's wonderful. Keep up the good work!"
She stands and dusts off her dress.
Nintos(Bob W for Clint) d20+9=15 ; d20+9=15 ; d20+9=16 ; Thursday July 28th, 2022 10:17:09 AM
Once the Wizard notices the magical auras emanating from the contents of the chest with his Detect Magic he continues to focus on the items to identify the auras and their strengths (knowledge arcana 15 and 15). If Fingers gives him the nod, he will pick up the items and try to determine what particular effects the items might have (Spellcraft 16).
”I suggest we also bring these items with us to have them more thoroughly identified” he suggests.
Rhys (Bob W) d20-1=15 ; Thursday July 28th, 2022 10:22:41 AM
The elf tries to hide his disgust at the idea of a lump of animated dead flesh being pasted on to the poor servants body. ”Lots of sailors tromping about with wooden legs…no need for this foulness” he thinks to himself. (Bluff 15)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 Thursday July 28th, 2022 5:10:27 PM ”I know this spell!” Paige answers in response to Kwarsk’s enquiry, the cleric elaborates:”Gentle Repose is a fairly straightforward spell for a cleric of my limited experience*, or for a wizard or sorcerer** with some extra practice. It keeps remains of a dead creature - including a severed limb, from decomposing.” Turning to Mavros, Paige asks: ”my understanding is that the magics of Gentle Repose are limited by a fixed number of days. How do you keep this man’s leg from eventual decay? Is the man bound to a cleric or magiker with knowledge of necromancy in order to have the ritual performed regularly in order to maintain his health?”
Paige understands that some folks quaff remedies on the regular for certain maladies, but she has never heard of cobbling together body parts. ”Next thing you know it will be the transferring of blood from one person to another!” she says in a quiet voice, so only her companions can hear.
* Cleric level 2 ** Wizard/Sorcerer level 3
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Thursday July 28th, 2022 8:47:55 PM
Mavros responds to Myre, No nothing like that. They certainly know where the soul ends up. They simply found it....unsavory.
Turning to Paige, he nods agreement. Yes, of course you are correct. The spell must be renewed occasionally, although we are hoping for a more permanent solution. This of course is an example of necromancy magic being used in a positive way.
Nintos looks over the found items, a ragged hat, a necklace, and three feather tokens. The auras are weak, but will require more investigation to determine the effects.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Thursday July 28th, 2022 10:52:03 PM "Ugh, I don't get people some times! You think a leg transplant is gross, don't get one. No need to go a step farther and stop everyone else who misses a leg, or arm...or lungs? Kidneys?" Myre shakes her head and stops the train of thought. She just doesn't know enough about bodies to continue that thought experiment. She smiles at the custodian one last time, then rejoins her friends while they wait for the snooping posse get done snooping.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Friday July 29th, 2022 3:58:35 PM
Kwarsk silently ponders to himself whether necromantic magic can ever be used for good, and also speculates as to what information the investigation team has found.
Rhys (Bob W) Friday July 29th, 2022 4:05:54 PM
Rhys watches as the servant limps away. ”Mavros, are you aware of any particular contacts Jason may have had outside your academic circle? We’re there any particularly generous benefactors that may have provided endowments in support of his work in particular?
Nintos (Bob W for Clint) d20+9=28 ; d20+9=13 ; d20+9=22 ; Friday July 29th, 2022 4:13:19 PM
Encouraged by his detection of weal auras, Nintos continues to study the items, hoping for more clues as to their identities (K Arcana for the hat =28 , for the necklace = 13, for the feathers = 22).
”We may as well take the whole chest” he observes and then begins rifling through the desk and armoire.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 Friday July 29th, 2022 7:20:58 PM
Paige has much to ponder. She understands what Mavros is trying to do. She admires his motivation, but isn’t too sure of his methods.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Friday July 29th, 2022 11:42:28 PM Oh, yes -- take the chest! It already has its own trap!
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Sunday July 31st, 2022 8:55:07 PM
Mavros shakes his head. Alas, whatever other contacts he had, he kept those to himself. I think I'm going to have to implement a more strict system of checking new recruits. I don't want to see something like this happen ever again.
The investigating team carry the chest back out to the lobby. There is nothing else in the room worth taking. Nintos is able to identify the hat as a hat of disguise, and the tokens are: bird feather token, campsite feather token, and floating feather token. The necklace he is unsure about.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Sunday July 31st, 2022 9:57:49 PM
Kwarsk, upon seeing Finger, Grothic, and Nintos return, with a chest says with a smile, "Well, looks like you came back with some... buried treasure. Was Jason a pirate as well as a poisoner?"
Kwarsk stares intently at the chest, pondering what could be inside!
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Monday August 1st, 2022 3:19:27 AM
[b]I vote we keep the books. Having our own library will help me to craft your tinderstones and thundertwigs and stuff.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 Monday August 1st, 2022 1:55:29 PM ”Allrighty then! Shall we head back to ‘the Patch’? Paige enquires looking to her diverse companions.
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Monday August 1st, 2022 2:33:51 PM
DMs check email and DMboard please.
Rhys (Bob W) Monday August 1st, 2022 7:04:28 PM
Rhys is relieved to see his compatriots return without incident. ”Thank you for your cooperation Mavros. We will be sure to highlight that in our report.”. The elf turns to leave after making sure that all are accounted for.
The elf is anxious to get back to their new abode and to begin finalizing the construction of the small forge area he had started on. ”Grothic, do you still have that horse stabled at the inn? We could probably build a small stable to house it in the courtyard.” he suggests.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Monday August 1st, 2022 9:27:30 PM Grothic, you own a horse? That's convenient -- we need two to pull the wagon. I'd been hiring a pair to move stuff around town, but for longer trips it would be better to have our own.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Monday August 1st, 2022 11:07:31 PM Myre smiles and waves at Mavros when they take their leave. "Not that I'm turning my nose up at treasure, but didja find anything about The Beholder in there?"
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Tuesday August 2nd, 2022 6:46:17 AM
Their business at the Hollow Pit concluded, the team sets out to return to their new headquarters. On the way, there is discussion about turning part of the courtyard into a stable, and acquiring another horse for use with the wagon.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 d20+6=16 ; Tuesday August 2nd, 2022 2:21:56 PM
Walking through the streets with her companions, Paige keeps an eye open for folks she might have seen before as she attempts to familiarize herself with the neighbourhood that will be her home for the immediate future. (Perception = 16)
”I’m curious about this Beholder fellow, as well as a few other folks we’ve met.” the half elf says after Myre’s enquiry.
Rhys (Bob) AC 18; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 d20+4=18 ; Tuesday August 2nd, 2022 3:53:24 PM
Rhys keeps an eye out for local woodworking shops and for sources of raw metals and charcoal as he walks back towards the Patch. ”Best to shop local” he thinks to himself, ”make ourselves a valued part of the community”.
(Perception 18)
”Have I told any of you of my idea for renaming our new home?” he asks aloud.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Tuesday August 2nd, 2022 8:54:09 PM
Kwarsk replies, "No, Rhys, what is your idea?" with some interest.
After Rhys replies, Kwarsk says to all, "Say, didn't someone say something about going to the catacombs next to look for adventuring jobs?"
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Tuesday August 2nd, 2022 9:00:53 PM
Rhys can definitely find some smaller shops that will have what he's looking for.
There is some discussion on renaming the Patch, and a decision has yet to be reached on a name for the group as well.
Walking through the City back to their home, the group comes across a familiar face. She catches Paige's attention first, and then comes over to the group. Clarisse looks a bit like she's been in a fight, or maybe just overworked. Well met. How is everyone doing today?
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Wednesday August 3rd, 2022 12:23:49 AM Myre looks Clarisse up and down. "It takes some real class to show up looking like you've been to war and still start off by asking us how we're doing. We are all fine, Clarisse. Maybe you'd like to accompany us to our new patch? No pumpkins yet, but we're making it our own, and I'm pretty positive we handled all the vermin."
She keeps her attention on Clarisse, confident that her sharper-eyed friends can keep an eye out.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 Wednesday August 3rd, 2022 2:07:58 PM ”Whoa Clarisse! Rough night? Why don’t you come over to the Patch so I can check you out and minister to your hurts?! Paige says to the agent of the Black Cathedral as she is completely distracted by the woman’s bedraggled appearance.
Rhys (Bob) AC 18; CMD 17/18 vs Disarm & Sunder; HP 13/20 Wednesday August 3rd, 2022 7:34:46 PM
Rhys explains his ideas to Kwarsk and the rest of the team. ”I suggest we shorten the name of our new Headquarters to ‘The Patch’. It keeps a familiar part of the name that is known throughout the local community and it speaks to the idea f being a bandage or repair to what is broken in the Scar and the Nightmare Quarter in general. Paige can provide low cost or no cost medical treatments to the locals, while Nintos, Fingers and Myre can provide alchemical remedies. The rest of us can assist with protecting the locals from the less scrupulous members of society and we can continue to help the Cathedral with their endeavours to improve the lives of our new community.”
Rhys scratches out a design for a sign with a shield sporting a Red Cross and a crossed sword and magical staff. ”We could get a sign something like this designed and made to hang out front and some of our earnings could be used to help out the orphanages, and some of the orphans might be able to help us out like apprentices…”
The elf is clearly excited about the idea and he looks eagerly to his companions for their support and suggestions.
Nintos (Bob W for Clint) Wednesday August 3rd, 2022 8:45:42 PM
Nintos considers Rhys suggestions before turning to Clarisse. ”Tell us, Clarisse. What has happened to leave you in such a state?”
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Wednesday August 3rd, 2022 10:58:03 PM
The team discusses a new name for their new home. Clarisse is thankful for the offer of aid.
Thank you, but I'm not injured. Although I guess I must be a bit of a mess. I've been working on cleaning up the Scar. I'm on my way back there if anyone would like to help.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Wednesday August 3rd, 2022 11:31:25 PM
To Rhys, Kwarsk says, "Rhys, interesting... The Patch, you say? Perhaps then our group could be called "The Patchers" because we're the ones patching up Plateau City and its residents?"
Without waiting for a response from Rhys, Kwarsk then turns to Clarisse after hearing what his friends have said as well as Clarisse, and says, "Clarisse, what do you mean by "cleaning up?" Clearing out gangs, cleaning debris off the streets, something else? I suspect we're willing to help anyways, but more information would be useful..."
Nintos (Bob W for Clint) Thursday August 4th, 2022 7:15:18 AM
Nintos considers Rhys suggestions before turning to Clarisse. ”Tell us, Clarisse. What has happened to leave you in such a state?”
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 Thursday August 4th, 2022 4:29:39 PM ”You’ve put a lot of thought into this, Rhys. I like shortening the name of the place to ‘the Patch!” Paige say to the fighter with a big grin. Turning to Kwarsk when he suggests a name, she adds ”Yeah! Maybe we can lend Clarisse a hand at ‘mending’ what’s wrong with the Scab?”
Raising one brow in enquiry, she turns to Clarisse and waits for her answer to the questions asked by Kwarsk and Nintos.
Nintos (Bob W for Clint) Thursday August 4th, 2022 8:35:10 PM
Rhys waits for Clarisse to elaborate on what ‘cleaning up’ entails. He in anxious to finish the forge, but helping Clarisse and the local community will almost certainly take priority.
Rhys(Bob W8 Thursday August 4th, 2022 9:58:08 PM
OOC. Pre is post for Nintos is actually for Rhys!
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Thursday August 4th, 2022 10:15:58 PM
Clarisse is happy to elaborate. Well, every day the Scar leaves debris, mostly a pile of rock and metal junk. It sometimes piles as high as 60 feet. Some of it falls into the street. Residents will usually clean up the stuff that falls to keep the streets around there a little cleaner. I help them. There are also 'holes' in the ground. I try to fill them with the debris. Sometimes it's difficult to see how far down they go.
I also try to use spells like consecrate on the area. But they don't seem to have an effect so far. But I'm going to keep trying. Something has to work. And I'm worried about what might happen if no one tries to fix it.
So if you have some time, I could use the help. Otherwise, maybe some other day?
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday August 4th, 2022 10:43:48 PM
Kwarsk contemplates... 'Sometimes it's difficult to see how far down they go' Clarisse said.
Kwarsk turns to his companions, and says, "Friends, I know we were heading straight for the Catacombs to check on new jobs, but what say we go with Clarisse to the Scar, do some cleanup and examining of holes, and then go to the Catacombs?
My concern here, as one who grew up in 'holes,' or caves, is that if any of these holes went deep enough, they could expose Plateau City to incursions from Drow, Aberrations, or worse!
What say you, shall we go help with, and investigate, the Scar now?"
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Thursday August 4th, 2022 11:40:02 PM Myre hides her frown behind a cool façade. What Clarisse was talking about sounded suspiciously like work, something which she was just not built for physically or otherwise. She takes a deep breath, conjuring up memories about talks of "character" and "getting off the sofa" and "go outside for goodness sake and get some air". She smiles.
"Yes, of course. Let's go haul dirt. Piles of mud and stone, and holes in the ground? Sounds like it's a problem that provides its own solution." She has visions of pushing mounds of dirt neatly into holes, fixing both problems efficiently. Surely that's how it works, yes?
Rhys(Bob W) Friday August 5th, 2022 3:52:55 PM
Rhys nods his head in agreement. ”Lets drop this stuff at the Patch along the way.” he suggests while waving his hands at the books and chest they had just acquired.
Nintos (Bob W for Clint) Friday August 5th, 2022 9:40:23 PM
Nintos nods in understanding as Clarisse expands on her activities and can’t help but wonder whether the holes are natural sink holes or perhaps deliberately made. ” Perhaps I might be allowed to examine these holes that are opening up. I may be able to determine the mechanism of their origin.” . The Wizard is already thinking of how water might form a hole versus just the collapse of unstable rock, or even what marks might be left by the tools of men.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Friday August 5th, 2022 11:15:13 PM Yeah, let us drop this stuff off and we'll be right with you. So these -- holes; they just appear in the ground? No one sees them appear?
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 Friday August 5th, 2022 11:39:09 PM
Paige stares saucer eyed at Clarisse, Fingers having articulated what she had been thinking.
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Sunday August 7th, 2022 7:22:45 PM
Clarisse is glad to have the help. I'll walk with you. The area is not far from your home.
Yes, that is true. The magic of the Scar is strange, the debris and 'holes' appear overnight, and last throughout the day. The residents have grown used to it, but I am concerned about what it could all mean.
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Sunday August 7th, 2022 11:48:28 PM
Jonathan, I send you an email. Please read and reply sir. You may ask your DMS to delete my post once you've seen it.
::waving at everyone::
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 Monday August 8th, 2022 6:18:37 PM
The young cleric follows Clarisse, asking questions: ”How long has this been going on? Does the debris pile up if it’s not cleared away? Has anyone gone down int the holes to explore?”
Rhys (Bob W) Monday August 8th, 2022 7:21:45 PM
Rhys follows along as the group heads towards the Patch, listening closely to Clarisse as she elaborates on the questions asked by Paige and he others.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Monday August 8th, 2022 8:27:24 PM
Kwarsk says, "Clarisse, what's the most notable hole you've seen or heard of so far?"
Rhys (Bob W) Monday August 8th, 2022 9:03:47 PM
Nintos anxiously awaits Clarisse’s answers to their questions, especially whether any exploration within the holes has already occurred and perhaps what has been found.
Rhys (Bob W) Monday August 8th, 2022 9:39:36 PM
Nintos anxiously awaits Clarisse’s answers to their questions, especially whether any exploration within the holes has already occurred and perhaps what has been found.
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Monday August 8th, 2022 10:29:33 PM The debris seems to pile up every day, but not so much that it completely clutters the streets. As for the holes, I never went into one. I don't know anyone else that has either. Aside from kicking some of the debris into them, most people just avoid them. They don't always appear in the same spot, it seems somewhat chaotic.
Myre (Shawn) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Monday August 8th, 2022 10:48:54 PM Oooh, holes go deep underground, and they're chaotic? That means -- the land of demons! Because it was lawful it would be devils, right? I get those confused.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Monday August 8th, 2022 10:52:33 PM
[b]Myre, dearest, you get me confused. Clarisse, show us the nearest hole that's not filled with garbage, so we can get an idea how deep it is and how much rope we have to buy. [b]
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Tuesday August 9th, 2022 2:38:40 PM
Kwarsk adds, "I agree with Fingers, with a brief stop if necessary to unload cargo first."
Rhys (Bob W) Tuesday August 9th, 2022 5:18:36 PM
When Rhys arrives back at the Patch he will help unload and secure the items Fingers has recovered from his alley as well as the items recovered from Jason’s office at the necromancy school. Once that has been completed he quickly readies himself for assisting Clarisse.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 Tuesday August 9th, 2022 5:25:45 PM
Paige makes sure she is equipped and mentally ready for another adventure!
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Tuesday August 9th, 2022 8:07:20 PM Dearest? Myre looks sideways at Fingers, wondering how to let him down gently. She decides to deal with it later, after she's figured out this demon thing.
"Yes. Yes we should absolutely climb down these holes and investigate.""...so we don't have to move dirt around," goes unsaid. She looks down at her hands, pondering how climbing down a hole by rope in a dress is going to work. Maybe Fingers will give her a piggy back ride since he evidently has a crush on her.
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Tuesday August 9th, 2022 8:37:30 PM
the Team stops by the Patch, and offloads their items. Clarisse leads them to the area nearby, where she intends to continue her work. She gets right to it, clearing some debris from the street. The debris is piled high here, as high as 60 feet in some spots. The local people mostly ignore it, having gotten used to it.
The team can examine some of the holes they find. Only one of them seems large enough to climb into it. A light spell cast on a piece of rubble and tossed in reveals a drop of maybe 30 feet. There is nothing remarkable about the holes, except the fact that they are there.
Clarisse gets to work.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Tuesday August 9th, 2022 11:03:08 PM
[B]Okay, what I'm going to suggest is going to sound like I'm overthinking it, but 1) someone should stake out a hole and a debris pile and see what happens when it disappears. Maybe the orphans can take shifts.
2) Offer a small bounty around town for anyone who can tell us as soon as a new hole or pile has been found. Maybe we can time them.
3) Someone should add the holes and debris piles to a map and see if there's some kind of pattern.
4) I want a close look at that debris. It has to come from something.
5) Who wants to drop down into this hole for a close look for anything helpful?
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 Wednesday August 10th, 2022 2:18:55 PM ”Do you just toss all the debris back into the holes?” Paige asks the representative of the Black Cathedral as she looks around to see if anyone at all is joining in the effort.
(OOC: What time of day is it?
Rhys (Bob W) Wednesday August 10th, 2022 5:16:19 PM
Rhys nods his head in agreement with Fingers assessment of the situation. ”Let me know when you are ready to lower someone down the hole and I will either assist or go down myself”.. Until then, the elf assists Paige and Clarisse with moving debris and filling some of the smaller holes.
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Wednesday August 10th, 2022 8:43:47 PM
Fingers and Rhys discuss a plan for investigating one of these holes.
Clarisse nods at Paige's question. Yes, it is the most convenient way to clean it up. Besides the holes don't seem to mind. With that, Clarisse gets to work, not wanting to waste any more of the day on idle chatter. It is midday, perhaps just past noonday meal.
A courier arrives at the area where the Team is located. He bears a message for Grothic. The message is from his adopted brother Drellen, with a request for Grothic to come and visit and see Grandfather. The message indicates that it would be prudent if he arrives sooner rather than later, and though unsaid it seems Grandfather may not be well.
Nintos (Bob W for Clint) d20+3=23 ; d20+9=12 ; d20+8=19 ; Wednesday August 10th, 2022 8:47:38 PM
Nintos carefully approaches one of the holes and peers into it. He pays special attention to the walls of the hole and any debris that may be at the bottom if he can see that far. He tries to determine what natural or other cause may be play based on the smoothness of the walls, any gouging or other marks and the size and nature of any debris (Perception 23, Knowledge Dungeoneering 12, Knowledge Engineering 19)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Wednesday August 10th, 2022 10:57:25 PM Good luck, Grothic. Hope you're Grampa's okay
It's not unusual that a dying elder asks to see his kin before the end. And yet...this sounds like one of those passing-of-the-torch situations.
Somehow, Muuru suspects it will be a long time before we see Grothic again.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Wednesday August 10th, 2022 11:05:42 PM
After listening for quite a bit, Kwarsk says to Rhys and Fingers, "That's a great plan. I am skilled in climbing. I am willing to help out in any way, whether securing rope at the top or being the one rappelling down."
Kwarsk looks over the slender elf for a few seconds, then adds, "Hm. If you go down, I can secure the rope and provide ballast and strength to pull you back up, or Fingers could, assuming he has strength to match his size. If I go down the hole... (looks at his Tower Shield and assorted gear) it might take both you and Fingers to provide the ballast and strength to pull me back up..." Kwarsk finishes with a Dwarvish grin.
"What do you say Rhys, shall we flip a coin for it?"
---
Separately, when the courier for Grothic arrives, Kwarsk turns to Grothic and says, "Grothic, you look disconcerted. What kind of message is it, my friend?"
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Wednesday August 10th, 2022 11:41:34 PM
Myre frowns. Grothic was leaving already. Seems like that was the norm with adventuring groups. Still sad, though.
***
After saying her goodbyes, Myre heads to the edge of the pit everyone's looking at. "I don't weigh much, and can't really help much up here. Lower me down there too."
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Thursday August 11th, 2022 9:48:32 AM
DMs, have sent you an important email. ;)
Grothic (Jonathan) rage rounds 5/6 Thursday August 11th, 2022 10:06:07 AM Sorry, everyone. I apologize for leaving, but it appears family issues have to take care of. I wasn't sure my brother was alive, but I know for a fact I buried my grandfather. So, if you will excuse me, there's a trap I need to walk into.
(Ooc) farewell everyone.
Rhys (Bob W) Thursday August 11th, 2022 4:29:23 PM
Rhys listens to the options as laid out by Kwarsk, ”No need for coins or games of chance my friend. I’ll go down and let you and Fingers do the heavy lifting! “. The elf ties one end of a rope in a figure 8 that encompasses his legs and slides it up to cradle his rear end. ”What do you see down there Nintos? Anything worth further investigation?”.
Once Fingers and Kwarsk have secured the other end of the rope, Rhys prepares to be lowered down the hole, repelling downward with his feet against the walls. ”I’ll call up if I need more slack or want to come up. If you feel two hard pulls on the rope, get me out quick!”.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday August 11th, 2022 6:57:18 PM
Kwarsk says, "We've got you Rhys. Hold tight Fingers!"
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Thursday August 11th, 2022 7:53:14 PM
Rhys is lowered into the hole in the ground, it's close to the middle of the street. He finds the inside to be unusual, with block sized indentations all around, not jagged like a cavern. He continues to descend, getting to something resembling the 'bottom' around 35 feet below the surface.
The area around the bottom is a bit cluttered, possibly from people tossing or kicking some of the debris up top into the pit. There are a few much smaller holes , barely large enough to fit a hand into. A light source does not penetrate very far into these crevasses, and determining how far they go would seem to be out of reach for today. You can determine that nothing larger than the size of your hand would be able to come out of those holes. However, you find no evidence of any insects or any small animals inside this area.
You don't feel any specific sensation, but some part of your senses indicates you shouldn't remain here for long.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 d20+6=26 ; Thursday August 11th, 2022 10:40:38 PM
Paige stands at the edge of the crater watching the team effort of Kwarsk and Fingers as they lower Rhys down into the hole. The cleric doesn’t have much to add to the project, but keeps an eye open for anyone or anything that might menace the success of the project. (Perception = nat. 20 for 26)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Thursday August 11th, 2022 11:57:08 PM
Muuru braces himself more than he really needs to. Human-types seem to assume he's much stronger than they are, but back home among the Minotaurs, he was considered a bit of a lightweight. Likely came from all the time he spent studying rather than fighting.
Well, he'd hate to disappoint his friends, so he'll just keep that to himself.
Nintos Melinous (Clint) | HP 16/16 | AC:12 T:12 FF:10 | CMD:13 CMB:1 | Fort:2 Ref:2 Will:4 | Merletta (Familiar) HP 4/4 | AC:15 T:14 FF:13 | CMB:0 CMD:6 | Fort:1 Ref:4 Will:2 Friday August 12th, 2022 11:35:38 AM
Nintos continues to peers into the holes, the small holes. His minds begins to wonder about what could be in these holes that doesn't need light with how dark it is. (Taking 10 on K-Nature or Dungeoneering = 18/19) He steps back from the openings and moves back towards the party; "It might be best if we move on. It doesn't appear that there could be any rodents, large insects or even swarms that would dash out from within, the gods only know what might have made these holes." Taking his journal, he takes down a few notes and simple sketches what is there.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Friday August 12th, 2022 12:23:06 PM
Something in Myre's brain asks her a question. She passes it on to the group.
"Are the holes regular? Like...all the same size and shape? What shape are they?"
Rhys (Bob W) Friday August 12th, 2022 5:21:33 PM
Rhys calls up to Fingers and Kwarsk for his removal from the hole. Once back at the surface he relates what he has discovered. ”The walls are not natural! They are covered with block sized indentations which must have something to do with how the holes are created. There is not much in the way of debris at the bottom, so perhaps the debris here on the surface is from the holes, we should check it to see if the same pattern of indentations I’d on the stones up here. There are also a number of smaller holes and crevices at the bottom… not big enough for any but the smallest creatures to get through but I had the distinct impression that it was unsafe to stay down their any longer.”
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Friday August 12th, 2022 5:53:58 PM
Kwarsk says, "Rhys, great work! We'll have to investigate more to find out what to do next. In the meantime, perhaps we should finish helping Clarisse clean up and then go to the job board in the Catacombs?"
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Friday August 12th, 2022 11:15:08 PM
While helping with cleanup, Muuru examines the debris. It was mentioned that some parts looked metallic; do I get a sense of what they may have come from?
I show some of the rocklike lumps to Rhys. Does this look like it could have come from the indentations?
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 Friday August 12th, 2022 11:59:29 PM ”When does this phenomena occur? Paige says, making a sweeping gesture with one extended arm. ”Has no one ever posted a watch? Been witness to an occurance?”
The whole thing seems odd to the cleric.
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Monday August 15th, 2022 4:36:32 PM
The team completes their investigation of the hole. A quick survey of the area shows that none of them are exactly the same size or shape. The debris on the surface, in some places stacked as high as 60 feet seems similar to the material in the ground. But with all the various sizes and shapes of it, it is anyone's guess if it came directly from the holes.
Asking around, you can discover that the residents are uneasy around the stuff, but have gotten used to it. No one really knows when the debris or holes appear, everyone says it just kinda happens overnight.
You spend the rest of the day with Clarisse, cleaning up, and helping out. The citizens are grateful, but skeptical of the work doing any good. Approaching late day meal, she calls a break to the work and seems satisfied of the progress. She excuses herself to get cleaned up and eat at the Black Cathedral, and hopes to see you all soon. She thanks you for the help before departing, and seems convinced that despite the citizens concerns, some good was done here today.
The team is now free to get a meal, or take care of any other business.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Monday August 15th, 2022 6:31:25 PM Myre looks down at her hands in naked horror. They were dirty. There was gunk under her nails and everything. She lets out a light gasp as she finds a tear in her dress. Oh, this would not do.
"We're done here for now, yes? Time to go clean up?" She doesn't seem to wait for an answer, instead cleaning herself up using prestidigitation. A quick mend spell fixes up her dress nicely. Even Waddles gets a light whiff of lavender scent. "Just because you're a piggy doesn't mean you can smell bad."
She absently nods in agreement with Paige. "It does seem unlikely that no one saw all this, but that doesn't mean anyone's gonna talk to us." She narrows her eyes and looks around, "not unless we ask real nice." Myre notes any homes close to this location, or with a high vantage-point above it. "Hey Paige, did you check this place and those holes for evil? Even Rhys thought it was spooky down there."
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Monday August 15th, 2022 6:54:31 PM
Kwarsk says, "Hmmm... are the Catacombs still open, or at least is the job board still open? I suggest we head there first, and then afterwards find a good tavern to eat at, preferably one that serves white go-- milk."
Rhys (Bob W) Monday August 15th, 2022 9:19:13 PM
Rhys surveys the work they accomplished. ”Looks like a dog has been searching for a it’s bone…” the elf’s voice tails off as he thinks through the obvious. ”I wonder if someone isn’t looking for something very valuable that may have been lost here when the original destruction happened. Something that might be emanating the evil I felt when down below. Does anyone know much about the original catastrophe that took place here?”
Rhys suggests delaying a return to the catacombs to the following day. he has some local shopping to do for some raw steel and wants to get to work setting up the small forge in the courtyard of the Patch. He also wants to speak to a local sign maker about his idea for some signage. And then of course a meal and some ale!
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 Monday August 15th, 2022 10:40:57 PM ”I’m for a meal, having worked up an appetite doing what seems like a ‘make work project’ if you know what I mean.” The half elf casts a baleful eye over the holes and accumulated rubble.
”Clarisse said she hopes to see us ‘soon’, so maybe she has a job in mind?” the cleric shrugs her shoulders, let’s discuss things over dinner. Did you like ‘The Crypt’, or should we explore a neighbouring quarter?”
Paige consults the map of Plateau City she picked up at WLA headquarters to see if there are any taverns listed in quarters that abut Nightmare Quarter.
A Job well done- DM BrianZ Tuesday August 16th, 2022 7:24:20 AM
There is continued discussion about the Scar, and how it all started. The team shares a meal, and gets cleaned up.
Rhys explores the possibility of setting up a forge at the Patch, and getting some signs made to let the neighbors know that the old guild is fully gone.
The team visits the Catacombs, but finds nothing on offer.
A few days pass, with some continued cleanup at the Patch, and settling into their new home. Then a messenger arrives, with an urgent request to visit Berem at the Black Cathedral.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, CMD 13, HP 22 Tuesday August 16th, 2022 9:56:19 AM ”Lead on” Paige says to the messenger, as she prepares to follow.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 21/T 12/FF 19, HP 24/24, CMD 15/19 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Tuesday August 16th, 2022 2:29:42 PM
Kwarsk says, "Agreed, Paige. Shall we, friends?"
Kwarsk polishes the flat of his now-masterwork dwarven waraxe one last time, mounts it across his back in the usual manner, and stands near the doorway, ready to escort his friends to their next adventure... job... jobventure?
Rhys (Bob W) Tuesday August 16th, 2022 4:13:29 PM
Rhys completes the construction of the small forge in the back corner of the courtyard and tests it with a small fire. ”Now if only Berem and his lot can come up with the bellows, anvil, and other tools they had offered” he thinks to himself. Satisfied for the moment he cleans up and prepares to revisit the sign maker’s shop when word comes from the ‘Black Cathedral’ calling for them once again. The elf dons his new chain shirt, admiring the blackened links and how they fade from view beneath his dark green cloak. And finally he slips the tooled leather scabbard across his back, the hilt of the long curved elven blade protruding above his shoulder. He follows Paige and Kwarsk out the door.
Myre (Carl) -- AC 13/12/11 CMD: 13 HP: 20/20 Spell Slots Remaining: Inf/5 Tuesday August 16th, 2022 11:25:09 PM Myre peers into the common area when the messenger comes. Her eyes peer around the door frame. Waddles' eyes peer directly above her head. She looks up at him, and nods. He falls forward into her hands before they both vanish behind the door.
A few minutes later, Myre reappears dressed in more appropriate clothing & ready to go.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 22/22 | CMB:3 CMD:16 | Fort:2 Ref:5 Will:0 Tuesday August 16th, 2022 11:50:18 PM
In the lab, Muuru hears the call, carefully pulls his project from the cauldron, douses the flame, pulls on his armor, grabs his go-bag, and joins the others.
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