DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Friday May 17th, 2024 7:31:01 AM Torry reiterates she wants no part in anything promoting slavery or anything bad. She also suggests that the minotaur put himself in their shoes in their shoes. She points out how he has not provided proof of his claims and while their employers reasons for acquiring the box were only marginally altruistic. She’s ready to stop the hunt if what the minotaur says is true Mortimer remembers the scrap of ancient paper and tries to give the others a knowing glance. He then asks the minotaur what they found on him Loryn compares the box to an elemental gem and prompts a follow up to ask about the sequence of events. He asks if the breach and the evidence they found below predates the sacrifice an order member made. If that is the case though he argues eagles pass and Kronk become unimportant. He says he’s for the solving of mysteries and finding antiquities but if that is the order of events that makes this a backburner Ash points out that there are stories of djinn and genies being trapped in artifacts and lamps throughout history and nowhere did it ever say that is slavery. He changes gears and acknowledges the minotaur and their group believes they are doing the right thing but suggests they could just have outdated views. Manolo gets the impression the minotaur is being honest but something bothers him. He asks what the prophecies of the elders say about their party and what is going to happen now. Gnubert agrees something is off about this whole thing and that Lorryn is correct about needing more information and the whole truth. He asks the minotaur how do they know he is telling the whole truth and not just a partial version to manipulate the party Hank finds it weird that the minotaur’s order has magic that can detect when someone is searching for the box but they don’t have magic that can find the box. He suggests allowing treasure hunters finding the box and then having the order buy it off them.
At Loryn and Ash’s comment the minotaur raises clenched fists. His veins pop, his eyes bulge, and he takes a threatening step forward before very visibly forcing himself to not physically assault the pair. ”How dare you.” He whispers, voice dripping with rage. ”If some being from another plane came to your home, dragged your grandparents back to theirs, and magically bound them there in forced servitude would that not be slavery? But oh, as long as they’ve done it for generations it’s fine, it’s just tradition. No one ever called it slavery, you’re overreacting. Monsters, all of you. I have said my piece. We will meet again, and when we do you will have abandoned your quest, or I will kill you with my bare hands."
He whirls about and storms off into the woods. You get the feeling attempts to stop him or continue the conversation will end in violence.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Friday May 17th, 2024 9:53:36 AM
"If you were able to kill us, you would have already. But you know that's not possible. " Ash yells to the retreating minotaur. "Why not jump to the fun part now, cause we're not all the brightest here and we certainly aren't calling it quits in the mission. You show up and give us convuloted riddles and expect us to jump to at your snap of a finger. "
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Friday May 17th, 2024 10:01:39 AM
~~ ”Um...actually...I am rather minded NOT to proceed further with this. This isn’t going to bring good and could very well bring a lot of harm. It’s just not a Scared Dancer thing to do; so when we get back to town, that’s it for me.” Torryn replied.
The man with al the presents had been very generous and not just to them, to the town, but getting the box simply didn’t seem the ‘right thing’ to do to her. It wasn’t to thwart evil or perpetuate good. It was for a collection. Contrariwise, the others appeared to be not evil and wishing to see that evil was not spread. That to her, was a more telling argument.
~~~ Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1 ~~~
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky d20+6=12 ; Friday May 17th, 2024 12:01:10 PM
Both eyebrows rise as Mortimer is surprised by the minotaur's rather emotional response. What he knew of the bloke from their various meetings was that he was very controlled at disciplined. He was mindful and carefully worded his responses, even when they were threats. This was a very emotionally charged subject to him to lose control like that.
Mortimer turns back to Loryn and Ash and says, "Oi, that got personal quick! There's more ta this than meets the eyes, yeah." He then winces when Ash attempts to escalate the situation, "Whoa!"
When the minotaur appeared to be thoroughly out of earshot, Mortimer explains his thoughts. "I'm thinkin' this is not your run of the mill taur. He could very well be a djinn 'imself or part of a djinn bloodline, yeah. Didn't ya hear 'im mentionin' grandparents and all? Odd thing ta say, it is!"
(Sense Motive: 12, to confirm his theory.)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky Friday May 17th, 2024 12:08:37 PM
(ooc: I recall that we found some gear in the vault, but I can't find a list of it anywhere. Just wondering what the items were, so I could list them on the party treasure list. )
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Friday May 17th, 2024 12:37:36 PM
(no one has gotten around to identifying them yet.)
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday May 17th, 2024 7:09:19 PM "Well, that was odd. He shows up, threatens us, and refuses to explain himself before leaving. Then he shows up again, gives a few cryptic statements, gets offended, and leaves again. What a goober! I'm guessing he spends too much time with his secret order and not enough time socializing with a wide variety of people. It's like talking to an isolated hermit who doesn't understand how other people think." Hank taps his bat against an open palm. "The only thing he said that wasn't cryptic was a promise of violence. I am more than happy to oblige."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Saturday May 18th, 2024 9:21:19 AM
Loryn steps back when the minotaur steps forward. Not the reaction he was expecting. He casts an eye up at Ash and then to the minotaur, or rather likely a djinni in minotaur form to see if the wizard had escalated the encounter.
While I want to know more about this box and such, I tend to agree Torrnyashkabbeth. I did not find him all that cryptic. This Box, binds a djinni within and his order and very much threat , lets call him a minotaur for now, finds is extremely offensive and akin to slavery. His order feels the Box is safe in it's lost status and doesn't want people, us, poking about for it. " Loryn shrugs, "I'm inclined to be satisfied with that. Let's head back to Windhorne, we can Identify the magical gear we discovered and tell Nick that we are closing the book on this and strongly urge him to do so as well. we have no compelling good reason to go after the thing and if it is remotely as dangerous or what have you as it is now being suggested, It's best it stays lost and there is an entire group trying to keep it that way. I'm good."
Active Spell: Light; Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Monday May 20th, 2024 8:48:50 AM Ash suggests if the minotaur were able to kill them it would have done so already and suggests he just jump to the fun part right now saying they aren’t calling it quits nor are they jumping at the snap of the minotaur’s fingers. Torry has a different take than Ash and thinks they should no longer continue looking for the treasure box and that although their patron seemed benevolent his reason for searching the box was collecting versus the order not wishing for evil to be spread which is more compelling to her. Mortimer is surprised by the minotaurs emotional response. He suggests that there is more to the minotaur than meets the eye and reasons that the minotaur might be part djinn or from a djinn bloodline. Mortimer Highlight to display spoiler: { The minotaur did fly away last time and that isn’t something minotaurs or monks are known for doing, djinn on the other hand… } Hank thinks it odd that the minotaur showed up threatened them and then refused to explain himself before leaving and then shows up offers cryptic statements gets offended and leaves again. He suggests the minotaur spends too much time with the order and agrees with Ash in being ready to oblige the promise of violence Loryn does want to know more about the box but tends to agree with Torry. Reasoning he wasn’t all that cryptic. He suggests that this box binds a djinni within and the order considers that a threat. The minotaur doesn’t want them poking around for it and he’s inclined to be satisfied with that suggesting they get back to Windhorne, identify the gear and tell Hiroshi Katsu they aren’t continue the pursuit.
Sounds like the party is split on what to do. It sounds like Loryn and Torry are ready to call it quits on the treasure hunt and let the box stay lost. Ash and Hank are undeterred in continuing the hunt and are ready to exchange violence again with the minotaur in the future. Good thing you have a short while to get to Windhorne to figure out just how you want to proceed moving forward.
Once they get back they’ll have some errands to run as well. They need to identify the magic items and message their employer to set up a meeting.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Monday May 20th, 2024 9:01:07 AM
~~ Heading back Torryn’s mercurial mind was not on the matter of the mysterious box, their employer or even the sundry magical items that they’d found. No, she was thinking about Spot. Spot would need her exercise and it was a pleasant day for it. It would have been nice to bring her along on this journey, but it had proven a prudent choice not to bring her, given the arrival of the minotaur. That being said, he hadn’t seemed the sort to harm a horse. Then there was practice. She always needed more practice. It wasn’t a chore for her. She loved to dance. So it was she skipped and danced her way back to town.
~~~ Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1 ~~~
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Monday May 20th, 2024 9:29:32 AM
"Thought so" Ash whispered to himself. His mind went back to his schoolmates teasing him when he was younger. He instinct put his hands to his bent nose. His dad made him go back to fight, but Ash wouldn't raise his fists and got another beating. His dad kept sending him back until Ash finally fought back with some minor magic to inconvenience their lives. Ever since then, he swore no threat wouldn't be matched with a fight from him.
"Ahh.. now where were we.. I guess we have some things to discuss. Myself Personally, I'm in favor of the ruling of the majority. We vote to go, I go... we vote to quit. I quit. "
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday May 20th, 2024 2:04:05 PM "Well, here's what I'm thinking -- some members of the party don't want to continue because finding the box doesn't really accomplish any good, right? But what if, bear with me, what if a bunch of evil people find the box? Wouldn't that make the world a slightly less pleasant place to live? Wouldn't it be better if good people find the box and make sure that it stays safe, or take steps to see it destroyed? Just a thought."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Monday May 20th, 2024 6:06:32 PM
"I am with Hank on this one....we are not the only ones who search for this box, if someone with ill intentions finds or gets the box we are actually to blame..", he pauses and continues. " Remember that we don't have a specific hardline time limit on this special quest"
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday May 20th, 2024 6:24:31 PM
Loryn nods and agrees with Hank, "I hear what you are saying, however a few things. We don't have any idea where the box is. We don't know of anyone except us looking for it and there is already a group protecting it and and and , yes Manolo, exactly that. We are under no time frame pressure at all. We just came from the only clue anyone, as far as we know, in the Wold has. The Spire Armory, and that clue is several hundred years out of date and cold.
The minotaur and his crew want to keep the box safe, i say let them do their job. If they need help, they know where to find us. I'm going to be a hard no outside of a compelling reason and what if a bad guy finds it is not remotely good enough. No reason not to tell our man who put us on this, everything we know and urge him to lay off as well. My life is better spent elsewhere and on other things rather than taking on the roll of eternal guardian."
Active Spell: Light; Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Monday May 20th, 2024 8:26:32 PM
OOC: I am sorry for missing Friday's post. Took a trip to San Antonio for the weekend and returned home late. I have been there several times but it was the first time I managed to make it to all 5 Missions set up by the Sapnish and it was amazing.
Gnubert keeps his mouth shut this time as the minotaur disappears into the trees. "Perhaps this time we just let him go. After all he said he may return, and in that case we should be ready for whatever comes our way. As for this box, and treasure. We need more answers. What was this place? What order is the monotaur a part of? Is it possible to be part djinn? Those questions deserve answers. Should we get them they may decide our journey"
Gnubert turns to Loryn and Torry, "They are correct about the search though. Does this box need to be drug out into the world if it is lost, and has been lost for however long? I am not sure, and both groups seem to have a different reason for their search. Perhaps we should allow them to destroy each other, and we can protect the hamlet."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky Monday May 20th, 2024 10:41:37 PM
After having had two encounters with the minotaur and his secret order and learning the reasons for what they do, Mortimer is perfectly fine with letting this job go.
"Torryn, do monks ever learn ta fly in all their mystupfin' ways? The minotaur took to the air like a leaf on the breeze when first we met. Not very monky or taurish, it is!"
Turning back to everyone else, Mortimer suggests a third option, "Even more now, I'm thinkin' this taur is a bona fide djinn. We should strike deal with'em. We team up ... they get the box an do with it what they will. We pinch all the rest."
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Tuesday May 21st, 2024 5:55:27 AM
Torryn considered Mortimer's words before answering.
"Not usually, although I have heard that some can jump vast distances and fall, like a leaf with sustaining harm. I guess that's almost like flying. As to Sacred Dancers, I hear that it IS possible with a LOT of training, but Mr Mino wasn't a Sacred dancer. that's for sure." He might not be evil, but she wasn't minded to trust him sufficiently to want to team with him. there was still a lot he'd left unsaid.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Tuesday May 21st, 2024 8:18:56 AM Torry’s thoughts turn to Spot as she dances her way back to town. Ash figures they have some things to discuss and is willing to go along with the group’s decision moving forward. Hank suggests it is better for good people to find the box and make sure it stays safe or take steps to destroy it lest evil people find it. Manolo says he’s with Hank on this one and agrees they aren’t the only people searching for the box and if someone with ill intentions gets their first they’ll be to blame Loryn nods and agrees with Hank except he points out they don’t have any idea where the box is and there is already a group protectiing it and that the Spire Armory clue was several hundred years out of date and old. He figures let the minotaur and his crew protect the box and he’s a hard no outside of a more compelling reason than what if a bad guy finds it is not good enough. He suggests they tell Hiroshi everything they know and urge him to lay off as well. Gnubert thinks they need more answers before deciding their journey. He turns to Loryn and Torry and asks if the box needs to be drug out into the wold if it is lost and has been lost for how long? He suggests letting both groups destroy each other so they can protect the hamlet. Mortimer asks Torry if monks ever learn to fly in all their mystupfin ways. He points out that the taur flew like a leaf on the breeze when they first met and that that isn’t very monkey or taurish. He then suggests a third option that if the taur is a bona fide djinn they strike a deal to team up and the order would get the box to do with as they will while the Argentum gets the rest of the treasure they find.
The party gets back to town late in the afternoon, having spent most the day just traveling and the rest underground. They could try to squeeze in a meeting with their employer tonight or wait until morning. There’s other stuff to do as well such as figuring out all these magic items and distributing them.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Tuesday May 21st, 2024 9:49:28 AM
~~ There were more important things than boxes, angry minotaurs and magical items. Things like looking after horses. So it was that Torryn headed straight to the stable.
”Hello Spot, what have you got to tell me? You didn’t miss much – not really, just some icky undead and a grumpy old minotaur. I think…..we should go for a ride. It’s not too late. What do you say?” Torryn took Spot’s whickering as assent and in short order they headed back out of town, headed towards the coast for some fresh air.
~~~ Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1 ~~~
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Tuesday May 21st, 2024 9:53:25 AM
Hank holds out his hands in appeasing gesture. "Okay, just thought I would try. It sounds like we have agreement. Let's go tell our employer what happened, give him the clue we found, and be done with it."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday May 21st, 2024 12:11:52 PM
Loryn nods, looks like the group is essentially in agreement to let this lie. At least for now. if more information becomes available or the 'minotaur' asks for aid, they would address it then.
Back in town, Loryn thinks sooner is better than later and agrees with Hank to have the meeting before retiring for the evening. The items could wait, or if Ash or Mortimer rather tinker, that was fine as ell. Torrnashkabbeth was already out the door before the quick minded gnome could even think to say something, no worries. The young lady was quite capable of handling anything that could be about the hamlet.
A quick Prestidigitation later and Loryn was set to be presentable to their now former employer. "Let's go deliver some news and advise."
Active Spell: Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky d20+6=18 ; Tuesday May 21st, 2024 1:32:20 PM
Knowing they are being spied upon, either magically or not, Mortimer casts Detect Magic within their common room. He scan the room for magical sensors of the divination sort.
(Mortimer casts Detect Magic. Range: 60-ft. Duration: Concentration, up to 7 minutes. Spellcraft: 18, to determine if any detected auras around the room are Divinations.)
IF he does locate a divination sensor, Mortimer will look at it directly and give it a knowing grin and a wink; in a way that says, 'you've been made!' If he detects this, he will address his on lookers, "Oi, why won't you stop by for dinner, yeah? 'ave a nice talk. Bring somethin' ta drink, will ya."
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Tuesday May 21st, 2024 8:20:51 PM
Gnubert agrees to go with Loryn and Hank to deliver the notice to their "employer". The cleric isn't a fan and will do his best to keep his mouth shut.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Tuesday May 21st, 2024 9:47:55 PM
Ash agrees with the majority, and follows suit with their decision. If they go to meet with the boss, he'll take the trip, otherwise he spends his time identifying the items they found .
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Tuesday May 21st, 2024 10:03:09 PM
Manolo doesn't do anything special but goes to rest for a bit...
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Wednesday May 22nd, 2024 7:08:03 AM Torry goes to visit Spot and then goes for a ride along the coast Hank holds out his hands in an appeasing gesture and says that he thought he’d try but the party has an agreement. He suggests they go to their employer, tell him what happened, give him the clue they found and be done with it. Lorryn nods that the group is in agreement to let this lie. He agrees that sooner is better than later and agrees to a meeting in the evening with their employer. He cleans himself up with a quick prestidigitation and says lets go deliver some news and advise Mortimer casts detect magic within their common room looking for magical sensors but doesn’t find anything Knowledge: Arcana 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { The minotaur mentioned prophecy. There are spells such as the one’s Gnubert used where you magically get an answer for a question, and it is likely that is how they are predicting where you’ll be rather than active spying. } Gnubert agrees to go with Loryn and Hank to deliver notice although he isn’t a fan and will keep his mouth shut. Ash agrees with the majority and follows suit with their decision. He agrees to go with the group to meet their employer Manolo goes to rest
Hank, Gnubert, Lorryn, and Ash go to arrange a meeting with Hiroshi to discuss their recent adventure and to tell them the Argentum is done with the hunt. At the Inn it turns out you can’t just waltz up to the door of a tenant and say hi; the party is met at the door by the owner of the inn who sends up a messenger. Hiroshi’s response is sent down. ”In the middle of something at the moment. Perhaps your whole group may join me for dinner in 2 hours?”
Given that there is now time to burn the party is able to identify all the items they found.
3 longswords - 45 gp (15 gp / per), 6 shortswords - 30 gp (10/per) 3 composite longbows with a +3 strength rating (400 gp) +2 Scale Mail - 4200 gp +1 light crossbow - 2,335gp ring of jumping - 2500 gp ioun stone - dusty rose prism - 5000 gp Potion of Resistance CL 1 - 25 gp oil of shilelagh - 50 gp oil of grease - 50 gp work breastplate - 350 gp +1 spiked gauntlet - 2,305 headband of inspired wisdom +2 - 4000 potion of invisibility CL 3 - 300 +1 light steel shield - 1159 gp warhammer+1 - 2312 gp Elixir of Vision - 250 gp
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Wednesday May 22nd, 2024 8:48:45 AM
~~ After her ride, Torryn again groomed Spot, but cheated in that the judicious application of her magic made the task that much quicker. Thereafter she stre4tched. Stretching was very important for Sacred dancers! Thus it was rather late by the time she returned home to learn of the dinner appointment.
”I think he’ll take it well. After all, he did say we were free to withdraw from any agreement at any time we wanted.” She said optimistically.
~~~ Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1 ~~~
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Wednesday May 22nd, 2024 9:28:16 AM "True, and we are going to give him what might be the only clue in the whole world."
In regards to loot, Hank indicates that he would like one of the composite longbows.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday May 22nd, 2024 1:19:44 PM "Dinner always sounds good, please let Mr Hiroshi know that we will be in attendance."
Loryn heads back to Minerva's and assists in the identification of the items. "Not too shabby at all, about 30k so 15 at the Catacombs or roughly 2,100 each. But we can go through more after dinner. Oh everybody get your spruce on as we are going to meet with Mr Hiroshi over dinner tonight in about 2 hours."
while many of the items are useful, Loryn doesn't feel they are of particular use to him and will pass on it all.
Active Spell: Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Wednesday May 22nd, 2024 7:07:25 PM
Manolo prepares for the dinner...eager to see what hiroshi’s response is going to be
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Wednesday May 22nd, 2024 7:51:02 PM
Gnubert grumbles about waiting on Hiroshi and trudges back to the inn. Gnubert cleans his surcoat, and gear. When it is time he follows the others back to dinner.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Thursday May 23rd, 2024 12:41:27 AM
Ash just nods when Loryn replies to the dinner. He'll head back and get ready.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life d20+6=10 ; d10+7=13 ; Thursday May 23rd, 2024 1:00:01 AM
(Knowledge [Arcana]: 10, typical.)
Mortimer is disappointed he doesn't spot a sensor. He'd love to catch them in the act. Oh well, he'll have to wait a little longer for a proper excuse to be smug.
He prepares for dinner. He decides to go ahead and fortify himself if the evening goes sideways ... or in case of a food fight. After muttering of a few necromantic words of power, his skin turns a lighter shade of pale and his features appear slightly more severe. (Mortimer casts False Life. +13 temp. hit points. Duration: 7 hours.)
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Thursday May 23rd, 2024 8:13:39 AM Torry returns home late to learn of the appointment and figures their patron will take it well considering he did say they could back out at any time. Hank points out they are going to give him what amounts to what might be the only clue in the whole world and with respect to the loot is interested in a composite longbow. Loryn thinks that dinner always sounds good and then assists in identifying items. He points out that the total worth of all of it is about 30000 gp so after selling it at the catacombs they’ll get 15000 gp and that amounts to about 2,100 gp each but they can figure it more after dinner. Loryn personally isn’t really interested in any of the items. Manolo prepares for dinner, eager to see Hiroshi’s responses Gnubert grumbles about waiting on Hiroshi and gets his surcoat and gear clean. Ash nods in response to the dinner invitation and plans to head back and get ready. Mortimer is disappointed he doesn’t spot a sensor and then fortifies himself with magic in case either things go sideways or there happens to be a foodfight
The time comes for the party to once again be led up to the top floor for a grand meal. Hiroshi refuses to talk business over the meal once again, instead telling stories of past adventures and item’s he’s tracked down. After the meal winds down and the plates are taken away he leans back with a satisfied sigh before speaking. ”I had expected to hear from you through the conch shell, but since I didn’t I imagine things went well but you didn’t find the box.”
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Thursday May 23rd, 2024 11:48:13 AM
"Oh yeah....the shell thing. I forgot about that." Mumbled a decidedly embarrassed Torryn. [b]"I guess I was more worried about Spot."[b] She added defensively.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Thursday May 23rd, 2024 1:18:42 PM
"Understandably so Torryn. A loyal friend to you like Spot is an obvious choice of your time and mind. " Ash says to his friend.
Turning to Hiroshi, Ash's face is devoid of any emotion. " Fair warning, I am a bit riled up. A few of us actually are. So, to begin, I'm not a big fan of being fed tidbits of food. I'm a big boy, give me the whole buffet. Catch my drift? Anyway, Minotaur leader of some cult keeps bugging us, telling us to not find the box, or not turn it over. Also happened to threaten us when I explained we don't like being kept in the dark. So.. all cards on the table, djins, minotaur, slavery, and all the dark around the facts... what are we dealing with, what's your reason for this, are they djinn, what's this secret sect of protectors and why do they want us to keep things as is? Why is this all secret and suspect, because at a certain point, our lives go in the line of danger all while we are being intentionally kept in the dark."
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday May 23rd, 2024 2:06:01 PM
Hank takes one last bite before the attendants remove the platters and cutlery. As he chews he motions with his thumb to Ash, and gives a thumbs-up.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+6=26 ; Thursday May 23rd, 2024 3:09:49 PM
Loryn takes a casual sip of wine as Ash begins and the gnome immediately misses Drack. Diplomacy would probably get them more information then not so veiled accusations and while Loryn had a silver tongue, it was just geared a much different way and that would probably not be so useful here.
He decides to give it a whirl and adds some color, "The Conch did not seem the appropriate method for the meeting that we, as the Argentium, wanted to have. Much more of a face to face meeting like well rounded adults. Ash has valid points and things we discussed, but as a bottom line to what we have discovered about the Box, is that we are no longer going to be actively or even passively seeking its location. There is enough evidence to warrant that the Box itself is an imprisoning device and an order of sorts is determined that it can never be put forth to that business again. We are excepting that and encourage you to do the same. Let the Box remain lost."
Diplomacy 26
Active Spell: Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Thursday May 23rd, 2024 7:47:26 PM
Manolo will let the others speak.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Thursday May 23rd, 2024 10:51:37 PM
Gnubert purposely doesn't eat, in fact when dinner is being served he places his cutlery on his plate in an "X" shape signifying he is finished. The young Gnome casts his gaze around the room wondering what surprises might await the party.
As Ash and Loryn begin speaking Gnubert slides forward in his chair, his feet dangling like a child's (which infuriates him this evening) and waits to interject but hid friends seem to cover both sides of the argument well, leaving little else to say
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Friday May 24th, 2024 8:37:34 AM Torry says she forgot about the shell thing being more concerned about how Spot was doing. Ash is riled up and says a few of them are and the accuses Hiroshi of holding out on what he knows of the box and then asks what they are dealing with, what is the reason for Hiroshi doing this, are the order djinn, what is the secret sect of protectors and why do they want things kept as is and why is everything secret and suspect implying they are being intentionally kept in the dark while risking their lives. Hank chews a final bite of food and gives Ash a thumbs up Loryn misses Drack as he sips his wine during Ash’s tirade. The gnome takes a more diplomatic approach explaining the conch didn’t seem appropriate as the Argentum preferred a face to face meeting. He explains that they no longer wish to seek the box as it is an imprisoning device and encourages Hiroshi to do the same. Manolo let’s the others speak. Gnubert purposely does not eat and casts his gaze around the room. As Ash and Lorryn speak he slides forward and waits to interject but between the two of them everything is covered.
Hiroshi seems more amused than angered by Ash’s insinuations, a bright twinkle sparkling in an eye. ”Ho ho ho, I’m not sure what dark secrets you are implying I have. I have been fully honest with you and shared all of the information I have. You are right of course that it is full of holes, but I thought it was fairly clear from the start that this was the nature of the job. We’re chasing ancient history and lost artifacts, piecing together things from fragments of fragments of information. It took me months to confirm the Treasure Box of Svengaxi was ever a real thing and not some ancient rumor or fiction.
It is obvious that in your hunt from the spire you have learned far more as to what is going on then I. The box is a tool for imprisoning things you say? That could be potentially alarming depending on the specifics.
Let us do this. As they say, the devil is in the details, so let's walk through everything we have as a group. Tell me everything about your search and what you found, leaving out no details. The smallest thing could be important! In turn I will walk you through my own research and show you what scant documentation I have. Once we have reviewed all the information we have it’ll be easier for all involved to decide how best to proceed, whether that be myself continuing on my own, you continuing to help me, or all of us abandoning the hunt and trusting this secret order to protect this dangerous artifact.”
Hiroshi will get up from the table and invite anyone interested to join him at a longer table in the back of the room that stores a variety of tools and carefully preserved documents. The documents are cracked, smudged, badly damaged, and in ancient writing styles. Linguistics or Knowledge: History 15 to follow along in Hiroshi’s explanation and examination (or other skills if you can convince me they apply honestly) - Highlight to display spoiler: { The documents are mostly in common, just in a very archaic writing style that’s hard to follow. He walks you through how he first stumbled across a mention of a powerful artifact box with the picture he showed you before in a forgotten corner of a forgotten archive in Plateau city. Curiosity piqued, he kept his eyes open for further mentions and only years later found follow up documents (in terrible shape and barely holding together) mentioning Spire Armory securing the incredible artifact known as the Box of Svengali and a barely legible description of it’s properties. Months of work later he confirmed vague mentions of a Spire Armory that existed a few hundred years ago in a travelog. The author was traveling from Plateau City over land to Thistleport placing the armory somewhere in the area.
It basically lines up with everything he said when he hired the group. With how vague and fragmentary it is it’s honestly no wonder he needed local expertise to narrow things down further, and the description of the box is so damaged you can only make out the details he shared of it producing strange orbs and enough details to match the faded picture and link all the clues together.}
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Friday May 24th, 2024 9:45:47 AM
~~ All the stuff on the table looked technical and held no interest for Torryn. Hiroshi seemed nice enough, but that wasn’t sufficient to motivate her to change her opinion. Seeking the box was not in itself a good thing that would aid others. If the box was that good, others would most certainly have found and used it by now. Moreover, if it was that good, why hadn’t he said so? He seemed honest enough in admitting he was an avid collector, but she wasn’t and collecting for collecting’s sake seemed a waste of time when more positive and helpful pursuits could be undertaken. Her problem was, how to articulate all that and have it carry some significance. She felt she’d just come across as a childish girl.
She kept quiet and crossed her legs whilst still seated at the first table whilst she did her best to meditate and ponder the matter in more depth, all the while someone else would find the words to say what she could not.
~~~ Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1 ~~~
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life d20+2=5 ; Friday May 24th, 2024 12:52:03 PM
(Linguistics: 5 ... hate you so much die roller!)
Never mind being fluent in two of the oldest known languages (Draconic and old High Woldian), Mortimer is having trouble making heads or tails of Hiroshi's collection of ancient writings.
Mortimer appreciates how open and transparent Hiroshi is being with him. What issues he had about keeping things secret, he pulls out a scroll case and takes out the papers they found in the vault.
"Oi, then ya will appreciate our findin's from the vault. All the loot was nicked long ago, includin' the box. This is what we found." Mortimer sets the papers on the table with the rest.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday May 24th, 2024 1:18:32 PM "Nerd alert!" he thought to himself. Hank waits to allow Hiroshi time to examine what they have brought and respond to their earlier questions, because obviously he would need to connect the dots for them.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20=4 ; Friday May 24th, 2024 9:46:08 PM
Manolo takes a look at the symbols but he could not make sense of anything. He looks helpless, not understanding any of it. Linguistics 5
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+10=15 ; Saturday May 25th, 2024 10:25:24 AM
Loryn hops down from his chair and heads over to the other table, frowning upon arrival until he spies a small footstool to bring over to provide enough height.
Loryn knew that at this juncture, Ash would likely be the most valuable member of their group. The Wizard was well versed in a wide variety of knowledge. For himself, though, he had studied the planes and if this Box indeed imprisoned an extra planar being, perhaps that knowledge would be of some assistance as well.
Knowledge Planes 15 Casts Comprehend Languages
Active Spell: Comprehend Languages
Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 4/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Saturday May 25th, 2024 12:58:03 PM
(Comprehend languages works you may read (and/or share) the spoiler stuff)
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Sunday May 26th, 2024 8:57:52 AM
Loryn arches an eyebrow as re reads the documents, the spell working better than he expected and the gnome is delighted that the trust he had put in Hiroshi on being upfront was well placed and now proven. Loryn will essentially re-read the documents, this time aloud to the entire group concluding that his line of thinking is that the orbs the Box produces captures and thus enslaves a djinn.
"There might be a reason to find this Box after all." He further muses aloud. "If the box produces Orbs, as in more than one, there could be a host of Djinn imprisoned within. If that is the case, or could be the case,...Hmmm I think it might warrant further investigation."
contents of Spoiler shared: The documents are mostly in common, just in a very archaic writing style that’s hard to follow. He walks you through how he first stumbled across a mention of a powerful artifact box with the picture he showed you before in a forgotten corner of a forgotten archive in Plateau city. Curiosity piqued, he kept his eyes open for further mentions and only years later found follow up documents (in terrible shape and barely holding together) mentioning Spire Armory securing the incredible artifact known as the Box of Svengali and a barely legible description of it’s properties. Months of work later he confirmed vague mentions of a Spire Armory that existed a few hundred years ago in a travelog. The author was traveling from Plateau City over land to Thistleport placing the armory somewhere in the area.
It basically lines up with everything he said when he hired the group. With how vague and fragmentary it is it’s honestly no wonder he needed local expertise to narrow things down further, and the description of the box is so damaged you can only make out the details he shared of it producing strange orbs and enough details to match the faded picture and link all the clues together.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 d20+2=3 ; Sunday May 26th, 2024 7:09:37 PM
Gnubert shakes his head and mentally curses the fact he was not as smart as the rest of his family. The cleric wishes he had memorized some spells to help but they were mostly combat spells, and therefore unlikely to help. The gnome looks over the documents (Intelligence DC 3 wow, impressive) and nothing makes sense.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+10=26 ; d20+15=31 ; d20+15=19 ; d20+15=25 ; d3=3 ; d20+10=27 ; d20+6=18 ; Sunday May 26th, 2024 9:33:44 PM
Ash reads the words on the papers(linguistics 26), but listens as Loryn tells everyone what the words say. Ash tries to recall anything that can fit into a blank spot.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Monday May 27th, 2024 11:20:35 AM Torry thinks about trying to articulate why she still objects to continuing the treasure hunt and ends up meditating on the matter in depth while relying on someone else to find the words to say. Mortimer is having trouble making sense of Hiroshi’s papers but appreciates their patron’s openness so he no longer feels like things are being hidden from them he shares the papers they found. Hank waits for Hiroshi to examine what they brought and respond to their earlier questions in order to get the dots connected. Manolo cannot make sense of the symbols. Loryn figures Ash would be their best bet towards having a breakthrough on their end but he casts comprehend language and is able to make headway. He suggests that there is potentially a reason to locate the box afterall being that the orbs the box produces could potentially enslave an army of Djinn and that further investigation is actually warranted. Gnubert curses not being as smart as the rest of his family as he struggles to make heads or tails of Hiroshi’s documents Ash reads the words on the pages but listens while Loryn tells everyone what the words say. He attempts to fill in any gaps with his own knowledge.
Ash, Loryn, and Hiroshi go over everything together and have a little confab. With his extensive knowledge in various topics Ash is pretty sure he knows what the artifact does, though of course it’s all speculation from vague descriptions. The artifact itself seems to have the sole purpose of creating these orbs via an unknown method. Perhaps it just generates them over time, perhaps material or a ritual is required - Ash suspects the former from what he’s read. These orbs then must be what enslave the Djinn. The notes they found indicate they cannot drag Djinn here from other planes (Quote: “and though I know of no way he (Warlord Kronk) could summon such a creature to use it on should he manage it his power can only grow.”), so they likely must directly target a Djinn already here to enslave, perhaps also trap them on the plane where they are captured at.
Hiroshi agrees with Ashes’ assessment and overall it paints a fairly grim picture of the artifacts use. To the average person it’s just a fancy box, useless unless they meet a Djinn which is fairly rare. A powerful wizard though could do all kinds of damage with it, dragging Djinn to this plan and enslaving them over time, potentially building up an army of them, all enslaved to his will and able to do just about anything with them.
At the end of the discussion, once everyone returns to their seats Hiroshi addresses the group. ”I can see why you reacted so strongly. The papers you found are very enlightening and remarkably well preserved - perhaps some sort of enchantment on the vault? They paint a fairly grim picture should the artifact ever be discovered and used by those of evil intent. Now the question is what to do about it, and if we trust this Order to protect it.
From everything you’ve told me we can make some educated guesses as to the Order’s capabilities. You mention they seem to be predicting where you will show up, and I believe asked why they don’t have the artifact secure themselves if they have such scrying power. I suspect that the artifact itself has protections against being located magically. Other major artifacts I have researched over the years, and if one is going to be enslaving Djinn who’s relatives would love to track down and free their brethren it seems an obvious enchantment to introduce. Indeed, trying to divine the box’s location is one of the first things I did when I found the picture I showed you.
That leads to problems though. If the artifact is lost and the Order merely accosts anyone they predict will search for it all it takes is one person with magical protections against divination magic searching for the box for it to be returned to circulation. Potentially just someone stumbling across it with no idea what it is might also foil the Order’s efforts.
I, personally, do not believe the situation is tenable long term. I’ve heard of many dark artifacts, found a few of my own in my day, and trusting that long lost artifacts will remain so rarely works out. Whether it be months, years, or decades someone will find the Treasure Box of Svengaxi, and it will be pure chance if they are virtuous or not. Better that it be found now, by those with good intent, and either secured, locked away under powerful protections, or destroyed, if such destruction is possible. It is simply too dangerous to hope that it will remain lost forever, even with someone actively trying to keep it that way.
So I ask you, will you continue this quest with me?”
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Monday May 27th, 2024 11:37:04 AM
"no." Said Toryn quietly, but firmly.
"Your argument is flawed. let's say that it is a fact that the box will be found at some point. Let's also say that there's a chance it may be by someone with evil intent. How does finding it now and presenting it to you actually alter that? It is very well secreted at the moment. No one knows exactly how well, but sufficiently so that it has stayed hidden for a very long time. If we were to unearth it, that knowledge might - and in all likelihood - will, quickly spread thereby enhancing the danger to the box and those poor djinn. Given that the box is very well secreted and given that it has a cadre of capable protectors, I see no need for us to change that at this time. Were there a more immediate and direct threat to the safety of the djinn, then yes, we'd feel obligated to act, but that patently isn't the case." She smiled apologetically in conclusion. It was never nice having to let someone down, particularly when they'd been nothing but good to you, but she could not ratify the search for the box with the tenets of being a Sacred Dancer.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20=3 ; Monday May 27th, 2024 7:23:44 PM
Manolo stutters and mumbles before shouting/asking not nicely. "We encountered one of them ! He said something about a prophecy! Do you know any connections to a prophecy?"
Diplomacy 10
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Monday May 27th, 2024 7:31:14 PM "I am not sure how we can truly trust either party in this. Both claim to be in it for some good, but as my dad used to say, Ultimate power corrupts ultimately." Gnubert shrugs still not quite understanding what the heck in going on.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Monday May 27th, 2024 11:19:28 PM
Ash doesn't give any answer, but does pat Toryn on the shoulder to show he supports her.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday May 27th, 2024 11:23:58 PM
Hank shrugs. "I think destroying an evil artifact would count as community service, but I'm the new guy to the group."
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Tuesday May 28th, 2024 7:37:08 AM Torry tells Hiroshi definitively no explaining that his argument is not good enough absent an immediate and direct threat to the box given it has both a well-hidden current unknown location and cadre of capable defenders. Manolo stutters and mumbles before asking about how one of them said something about a prophecy and if Hiroshi knows of any connections to prophecy. Gnubert says how he is unsure how the Argentum can trust either party as his dad used to say Ulimate power corrupts ultimately still not understanding what the heck is going on. Ash pats Torry on the shoulder in agreement Hank says that he would think destroying an evil artifact would count as community service
To Torry Hiroshi says, “How confident are you that the order of zealots you came across are capable protectors? Do you think they could defend the box from any comers or do you think their leader’s anger is a liability that could be exploited by a cunning adversary? You say you aren’t obligated to act outside an immediate and direct threat but are you comfortable in security by obscurity combined with an order led by some sort of minotaur with obvious rage issues being the box’s only line of defense? Let me assure you that should you reconsider and recover the box for me, it will be safe behind fortifications, wards, spells, and even powerful guardians. No one will merely stumble across it blindly should the box end up in my collection or that of another collector I know with even better protections than my own who shares my sensibilities.”
To Manolo he says, “I’d have to check my collection and get back to you regarding your question. Prophecy tends to be vague and my own research in connection to the box said nothing about any prophecy as I have shown you. I'll tell you what. You reconsider my offer as Torrynashkabbeth seems to have given a definitive no and as a token of good faith will open my entire library of documentation related to prophecy open to your group. It may take me a little bit of time to transfer the documents to a secure facility local to Windhorne Hamlet that you can peruse but once there you can browse to your heart’s content. ”
To Gnubert Hiroshi says, “I have been nothing but open and honest with you in all our dealings. I seek the treasure box as a collector’s item and it is in my best interest that it never be used again. Aside from one private showing to fellow collectors where I may bestow it as a gift to a fellow collector with better security than my own who shares my sensibilities and would never use the box himself nor want it used for evil purposes should the box end up in my possession or said fellow collector’s possession it will never again see the light of day. This is far stronger protection than what we have now with security by obscurity and some ragtag group of djinn blooded zealots.”
Hiroshi says to Hank, “I don’t think the artifact is evil in and of itself just has the potential to be used with evil intent as the journal I found related to the spire armory said the box didn’t radiate evil. Frankly, such items tend to be nigh impossible to destroy, and if it was possible this secret order would have likely done so. Sealing it away securely, behind the most powerful protections possible, is the safest, most likely course to succeed.”
To the group as a whole he has one last thing to say. ”I understand your hesitation, as this is a lot bigger than initially thought. For myself though this is nothing new. I’ve been pursuing powerful magics and lost artifacts far longer than most of you have been alive. I have dealt with far darker, more dangerous artifacts and successfully removed them from circulation before. Your expertise and local knowledge will greatly help, but I will pursue this regardless.”
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Tuesday May 28th, 2024 8:16:27 AM
"Whilst I am sure that you have indeed been successful, I'm afraid that your arguments again fail to stack up adequately. These amazing, super=powerful wards and defences will most likely be superior to any currently in existence, but then.....you are going to reveal it's location to others. What then if you are blackmailed or manipulated into circumventing those same defences? Or your friend is? Anything is possible and it seems to be that if this box has successfully evaded detection by someone, even with your undoubted skills, it is safe enough. As to the minotaur, everyone has their faults. He may not be the ideal protector, but he isn't evil and is acting for the best interests of others. It feels wholly wrong to go against that. Well, it does to me." She explained, before appending a 'sorry' at the end. She didn't like letting anyone down and Mr Hiroshi had been very kind. Still, she'd made up her mind and believed that it was the correct decision.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Tuesday May 28th, 2024 11:28:07 AM
Manolo thinks ' We are in a pickle, we have raging zealots who seem kind and good hearted but very violent bent on keeping a relic out of anyone's hands at any price and methods necessary. On the other pickle, We have a mysterious person who collects dangerous and powerful objects for fun'. Manolo taps his head for a few moments. Hearing what the others have to say.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday May 28th, 2024 1:15:38 PM
Loryn was not liking this much either. He was starting to feel like simply flipping a coin and Warrd figure it out. Problem was, he didn't put much faith in the God of Luck. he had one piece that bothered him the most, or rather swayed his thoughts on the matter the most,
"The current situation of obscurity is wrapped around the idea that a member of the protecting group sacrificed himself to put the Box into obscurity. I'm no Archmage or Magus, but the that type of act is usually far more powerful of a ward of protection than any spells of guardians we might put forth. It's not like the Box is sitting on a shelf hoping nobody finds it. And if we are right, that it was a Djinn that did this, to dumb it down to security by obscurity is an adolescent argument. No. I am of the mind that this is something we should not be prying into and bringing more attention to. We..." The gnome gestures to the group,
"have no wards or divinational protections and are becoming more and more known regionally all of the time. By our involvement to locate a box which should not be located, welcomes outside attention to the very thing. We are out until such time as we are needed, and that need, is not finding the box."
Active Spell: Comprehend Languages
Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 4/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Tuesday May 28th, 2024 4:43:56 PM
Hank clears his throat. "You know, you could always hire criers to spread the word that the box has been found and you successfully destroyed the evil magic, and that additional details can be found in your upcoming memoir. Nobody's going to look for something that they think is gone..."
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Tuesday May 28th, 2024 7:18:05 PM
Gnubert looks with pride at his companions. Their ability to so clearly state their positions so passionately and yet so controlled amazes the young cleric. "I stand with my friends sir. I believe we have given you our answer." Gnubert stands, and prepares to leave.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Tuesday May 28th, 2024 8:51:31 PM
"We're opposed to a relic that enslaves and I feel like Torry has expressed her stance, and she won't be enslaved to another point of view. She's entitled to her stance, and frankly I commend her for being so steadfast with it. So I believe you have your answer."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Tuesday May 28th, 2024 10:27:05 PM
Mortimer stares on ... motionless and unresponsive. He's fine with the others being vocal with their opinions. It's almost humorous, he thinks, he can hear a chuckle deep within. A half smile briefly forms on his lips with the mental musings of, what petty concerns of mortals ... that's a strange thought to think, he ponders. This Hiroshi assumes he's the eldest in this room; the thought almost makes him want to laugh. Mortimer doesn't however, he's becoming concerned by these intrusive thoughts. They sound like him, but not. A sudden burdening weight from the depths of his soul makes him feel sick with experience. The gloom of unending, restless existence through the prospective of a living soul. It was unbearable and Mortimer quietly takes a seat to wait out the funk of despair.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Wednesday May 29th, 2024 8:44:03 PM Torry tells Hiroshi his arguments fail to stack up properly as although his protections sound impressive he intends to show the location of the box to others which would open the door to potential blackmail or manipulation. She further explains that if the box has evaded detection of someone of Hiroshi’s skills then it is safe enough. She also says that the minotaur may not be the perfect protector but he isn’t evil and acting in the best interests of others. Manolo thinks to himself about the predicament that they are in and continues to listen to what other people have to say. Loryn was starting to feel like flipping a coin and let Warrd sort it out but he didn’t much care for the God of Luck. He suggests the current situation is more than just security through obscurity because a member of the order may have sacrificed themself to put the box into obscurity. He also suggests that the group has no wards or divination protections and that as their group is becoming more well known it would bring unwelcome attention to the box if they continued the search. Hank suggests Hiroshi hire a crier to tell the world that the box was destroyed as no one is going to look for something they think is gone. Gnubert is proud of his companion’s ability to state their positions both passionately yet controlled amazes the young cleric and says he stands with his friends and that they have given their answer. Ash says that they are opposed to a relic that enslaves and Torry has expressed her stance that she won’t be enslaved to another point of view and that she’s steadfast with that and that is his answer. Mortimer is quiet and somewhat lost in the funk of his own thoughts.
Hiroshi has been very patient and only showed jollyness or seriousness up to now, but it seems the party’s constant questioning of his morality and/or capability has successfully gotten under his skin. “You think so little of me that I would endanger the box willy nilly by showing it off to thugs and hooligans? As I said the reveal would be a private affair amongst collectors such as myself. Between us we enshrine a variety of rare, dangerous and powerful artifacts and have been at it for longer than you’ve been alive. The collector community is one built on mutual respect and trust and no single member of the community would stoop so low as to steal from another.
Our community could do so much more than hide and hoard ancient treasures. You act like I’m arbitrarily showing this off, like I’m acting only in my own self interest and not for others. With this I could gain influence, sway them to be more active in helping muggles. Our elder will be leading a meeting soon and the protections on his collection rival anything else on any plane! I would ensure the box vanished from history and greatly sway the others simultaneously.”
Horishi takes a deep breath and lets it out in a huff. ”You are obviously set against continuing the search. That is your choice. I will find others to help me and continue it without you. Though you raise some valid objections to the hunt and alternative solutions I find them no more convincing then you find my own arguments. Should you change your mind later, leave a message for me here and I will get it. For now I bid you goodnight.”
He pushes back from his chair, gives a polite bow, and starts to leave the room.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Wednesday May 29th, 2024 8:59:04 PM "Well, now that we know the artifact will be super-duper protected, and kept from bad guys, and we will be rewarded, AND this could be the start of a very lucrative string of contract work with this organization... Can we continue this job? Even if all you care about is protecting this village, this is a potential win for everyone."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday May 29th, 2024 9:31:22 PM
Posting in the morning
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Thursday May 30th, 2024 5:39:59 AM
No." Torryn answered quietly. She stood and walked gracefully towards the door, but stopped and turned. this time addressing Hiroshi.
"Think about what you just said. You want this box to elevate your position amongst your peers. This, arguably the greatest prize ever attained by 'collectors' will disappear. Disappear for how long before the need to prove you actually succeeded reasserts itself? Your arguments are full of holes. I stand by my conviction that it is best left where it is. At least for now. Thank you again for your kind hospitality. Good night." So saying she turned and left.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Thursday May 30th, 2024 7:29:03 AM
"I grew up in the upper crust of society, people who are "thugs and hooligans" can also have money and be the "finest collectors". Sure Hiroshi, you seem honest and good, but that whole.room of collectors isn't accounted for and any one of them can be exactly what we're protecting the relic from"
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday May 30th, 2024 8:36:39 AM
Posting in the morning
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday May 30th, 2024 11:03:32 AM
Hank listens to the words of his fellow party members, then looks at Hiroshi while shrugging and making an apologetic motion with his hands. As if to say, Sorry, my group has spoken.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Thursday May 30th, 2024 12:45:54 PM "Hmmm elder, muggles, sway...sounds like you have a 1% club. Interesting..." Gnubert opens the door and steps out.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday May 30th, 2024 4:54:26 PM Well that went south quickly though Loryn had to admit he was unsure why it took such a quick turn. The meeting was quickly dissolved and Loryn was just as conflicted as when it started. If anything, Hiroshi was now even more determined to find this Box, thus inevitably turning to someone else, possibly here in Windhorne to assist who would clash with the current proctectorate cult, leading to violence and that violence could see itself taking place within Windhorne. Yes the gnomes spinning mind did not like where things were left and where things were going at all.
Yet, there was no good solution that he could fathom.
Loryn remains at the dinner table, pours himself another small glass and leans back into the chair exhaling and taking in the flicker of a candles flame.
Active Spell: Comprehend Languages
Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 4/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Thursday May 30th, 2024 7:36:34 PM "That went as well as expected, yeah," he remarks in an indifferent and distracted tone. The heaviness he felt throughly crushed any concerns about the displeasure of ancient beings of power.
There wasn't much difference between Hiroshi and himself. Mortimer was a collector or sorts. Under his bed is box of graven mementos that he had stolen during his years as a gravedigger. Most are worthless trinkets: lockets, rings, little bits and bobs left by the family; having only sentimental value. The living have no idea how these things torment the soul. In life, needs of the flesh is like an armor of justification against the regrets, failings and wickedness of life. When shed of that flesh, the soul is defenseless against their guilt. Hell has no need for demons, souls willingly cast themselves into the flames. The dead want no memory of their lives. So Mortimer removed every reminder he could. To allow the soul that chance for a peaceful oblivion.
"Let's go, yeah. Feelin' a bit knackered, I am."
DM Hugh & Mitch - A letter Thursday May 30th, 2024 8:57:30 PM Hank suggests that now that they know the artifact will be super-duper protected and kept from the bad guys and that they will be rewarded and that this could be the start of a lucrative string of contract work that could be a win for everyone. Torry says no, suggesting that Hiroshi’s arguments continue to be full of holes and leaves Ash says he grew up in the upper crust of society and that thugs and hooligans can have money and fine collections and while Hiroshi seems honest and good the whole room of collectors isn’t accounted for. Hank shrugs at Hiroshi given the rest of his groups firm resolve to the turn the man down. Gnubert remarks that Hiroshi has a 1% club and steps out. Loryn thinks that things went south quickly and he was unsure why things took a quick turn. He was just as conflicted as when they started and now Hiroshi is even more determined to find this Box which could lead to more violent with the protectorate that could potentially negatively impact Windhorne. There was no good solution he could fathom so he pours himself a drink. Mortimer reflects he is in some ways similar and the nature of death. Also he’s kind of tired.
The next morning the Argentum have a messenger at their door.
He gives them a letter and leaves
The letter reads: Dear Argentum, I assume this will fall on mostly deaf ears and part of me wonders why bother when agents are so easily replaced.
However part of me still feels the need to better explain to you certain realities. Collections are sacrosanct. The collecting community is more than just an exclusive club, it is something you are born into and as such each of us is bound to the others by ties of blood and magic. It is these strong ties that prevent us from acting against each other. As Ash observed the upper crust of society even among the noble races can be filled with thugs and hooligans who may have money and fine collections but we are better than that and I’m sorry that you don’t believe me. I had hoped to be able to show you one day but as things stand now I'm not sure if that will ever come to pass.
Furthermore, using the box to gain influence among my people is a one shot deal. I can’t just pull it out of my collection whenever is convenient because in order to gain influence with it I would have to give it to the elder holding the meeting himself and even then if enough other collectors have grander gifts then my gesture is meaningless. However I’m willing to part with such an exotic artifact from my own collection if it means there is a chance things will be better for everyone, not just the collecting community. The majority of you probably still don’t believe me even if Hank is interested but the offer still stands.
Yours Truly, Hiroshi Katsu
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Friday May 31st, 2024 4:54:29 AM
Torryn read through the letter when it came to her. She shrugged.
"Strange, is it not? We were told that we could, at any time elect to withdraw from this arrangement, yet he moves Heaven and Earth to have us again do his bidding. Personally, I am not minded to do so. His arguments still smack of elitism and very little of altruism. Such is not the way of the Sacred Dancer." Having said her piece she returned outside to perform some 'dances'.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday May 31st, 2024 11:18:34 AM
Loryn finishes his last glass and after a few more moments exits to take a winding route home to Minerva's. Once there, he tries to unwind and set his troubled mind at ease in the kitchen. A bit of this, a dash of that and what happens if add this to that. Loryn dabbled in spice, herb and sweeteners the way other gnomes played with cogs, gears and illusions. Soon, relatively speaking, the trash was nearly full of failed baked goods and soups and the pantry was practically depleted and an assortment of cakes, breads, marinades and marmalades occupied nearly every square inch of every horizontal surface. Loryn smiled at the late nights work and departed for bed.
Loryn listens as the letter is read and knows where the brash youth of the Argentium are going to go with their thought train before it is boarded to depart. A smile and shake of his head is all he puts forth on the matter initially. "Might I suggest a return letter simply stating that then. 'As per our original agreement of postponing or even terminating our part in the search for the subject item, The Argentium is politely and respectfully doing so. Signed us'."
Loryn gives a smile to Torrynashkabbeth upon finishing his input or the matter and declares the kitchen open to all to enjoy what he was up to last night, "I must provide some caution however as I was in a tinkering kind of mood."
Once the team was at the main table Loryn offers up an additional thought, "I believe, whether we like it or not, that we are going to become entangled with the quest for and against the box in the future. Now I also believe our decision is correct, if not for all of the same reasons, but we came to it amicably to ourselves and that says a great deal about us I believe that the 'Collectors' are no more mortal noble than the minotaur is a minotaur and going forward it would serve us well to keep that in mind. We are not dealing with nobility, aristocrats or members of the Chancer Club. Mr Hiroshi Katsu intends to pursue this to its end and he will bring others into it. Those others will clash with the Minotaur and his group and I think it would serve us and more importantly, our community, to keep our eyes open going forward. this is not cause for me to change my mind, nor am I trying to change any of yours. I feel we should strive to become the heroes we wish to be. Heroes of the Wold, or of at least the lands around Windhorne. From there, we will be better suited to have our own thoughts and concerns about the box and much more heard and heeded."
Loryn sits back and shakes his head, "Sorry, that really came off as a speech, my mind tends to race and ramble on sometimes."
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Friday May 31st, 2024 12:09:44 PM
Ash takes a bite of the food presented.. and smiles and grunts out a Yumm. He nods his like of the food to Loryn.
After Loryn speaks, Ash ponders for a few seconds before adding. "I feel Torryn and Loryn both speak from the same spot. Let's face it, we're the only ones we can all trust. We also have each other's backs and well being in mind. Maybe we continue this search, but don't turn it over to anyone. There's smarter people out there than a collection of rich collectors and a cult's word to protection. Maybe we finish this and bring the item to a neutral, more aligned with our views, type group. We have WLA members here, there's powerful adventuring groups all over the wold... a rich guy and a minotaur who likes to butt in aren't our only players in this game."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Friday May 31st, 2024 3:43:48 PM
Mortimer, who had his eyes closed as he listened, opens them slowly and says jokingly, "You bein' paid by the word, sounds like."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Friday May 31st, 2024 5:28:41 PM
Manolo looks at everybody and hears everything. "Well... something is bound to happen, with us or without", he says and laughs and yawning after that.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday May 31st, 2024 9:45:55 PM
Posting in the morning
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Friday May 31st, 2024 10:13:00 PM Torry finds it strange how hard Hiroshi is trying to convince them to continue considering he said they could leave whenever. She thinks his arguments smack of elitism and have very little to do of altruism and she says such is not the way of the Sacred Dancer going outside to perform some dancing. Lorryn suggests a return letter saying that the Argentum is politely and respectfully postponing or terminating their search. He had spent the previous night baking up a storm and offers the fruits of his labor to his team. He suggests they keep their eyes open moving forward considering Hiroshi is undaunted and whoever he finds next will likely clash with the minotaur and his group. He says he doesn’t think they should change their mind rather continue to be the heroes they want to be. Ash takes a bite of the food presented and nods in approval. After Lorryn speaks Ash concurs that Torryn and Lorryn speak from the same spot. He suggests they consider finding the artificat themselves and then take them to a neutral third party such as the WLA or a higher powered adventuring group. Mortimer who had his eyes close as he listened opens them slowly and jokingly says “You being paid by the word, sounds like.” Manolo looks at everybody and hears everything. He reasons something is bound to happen with or without them.
Several days pass peacefully. On a particularly dreary day, one where it’s always raining but not really enough to use as an excuse not to go outside there is another knock at the door. Whomever opens it finds an unexpected guest on the other side - the Minotaur and the two pather beastfolk who cast slow at their first encounter. The minotaur is glaring at the door when it’s opened but smooths his expression to something more neutral once it’s opened. ”Parley?” he requests.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Sunday June 2nd, 2024 8:56:58 AM
The matte settled, Loryn spends a few days restocking the larder and at the WLA to see if the Argentium may be of some help.
Loryn, happened to be in the front room when the knock at the door occurs. Upon opening the door the gnome looks up, way up to find the minotaur looking back down. "Parley?" he questions back.
"Well I suppose we've eliminated vampires from thee list so...Please. Do come in and make yourself comfortable in the front room and I shall inform the Argentium that we have guests."
Loryn heads into the kitchen to retrieve a couple of pies and lets those in the dining and kitchen area know that the guardians are back and that means something is wrong.
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Sunday June 2nd, 2024 9:24:20 PM
Gnubert listens to the others but says little. The cleric spends time contemplating the conversation, but says little, the mention of the WLA causes his ears to pick up and he nods his head at that suggestion.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Sunday June 2nd, 2024 10:48:37 PM
Ash smiles and let's a snide giggle escape his mouth when he sees their guests.
He doesn't say a word, but crosses his arms and plans to listen.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday June 3rd, 2024 1:47:16 AM
Hank sits and listens, because, why not?
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Monday June 3rd, 2024 5:25:08 AM
Torryn emerged clean and refreshed. It was, she felt, the perfect day for a run: to get outside and see the beauty of the day without other people distracting her. It wasn't a dank or dreary day to Torryn. It was all just weather and all weather could be appreciated. So it was she entered in a good mood and smiled pleasantly at the giant minotaur, for such he was to her.
"If you would be seated to talk, that would be greatly appreciated as it will spare so many of us having to crane our necks to look up." She said with a broad smile.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Monday June 3rd, 2024 8:22:19 AM Loryn spends some time restocking the larder and visiting the WLA. When the knock on the door comes he tells his guests to come in and goes to retrieve a couple of pies while letting folks know the guardians are here and that means problems. Gnubert listens to the others but says little. The cleric spends time contemplating the conversation but says little. Hank is willing to listen because why not? Torry likes the current weather and asks the visitor to take a seat so they don’t have to look up at him.
The minotaur accepts whatever seat is offered, though hesitates if it doesn’t look particularly taur-safe. The twin panther sorceresses just shake their heads at the offer and stand silently flanking their spokesman.
There’s a long, awkward silence. One of the panther women nudges the minotaur. ”So I presume you followed my advice and abandoned the quest?” he ventures.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+6=26 ; Monday June 3rd, 2024 10:40:40 AM
Loyn puckers his lips at the refusal of the panther woman to try and make this less awkward, but what can you do. "We have postponed our search after some private discussions. Care for some pie and not to be presumptious, but you feel anxious. Best way to go is probably just to say it straight forward. What brings you by?"
[i]Diplomacy 26[/b]
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday June 3rd, 2024 10:59:57 AM
Hank sits down and cross a leg over his knee. "We abandoned the quest, but not really because of your advice. Now, speak your piece. I will not break the laws of hospitality, but you are on my dren-list."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life d20+7=13 ; Monday June 3rd, 2024 12:38:51 PM
Mortimer attempts to lighten the mood in the room with a simple question directed at Hank.
"What law of 'ospitality is that? Yours truly," pointing to himself, " 'as been shown the door more times than I cares ta count! And not always on my own feet." With a wry grin, he continues, "I've been expectin' ya and I'm all ears to what ya came here ta say. So you're more than welcome ta be here. You should really try Loryn's pie; Really good, it is!"
(Diplomacy: 13.)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Monday June 3rd, 2024 12:40:13 PM
(ooc: I forgot to say how much I dislike the dice roller.)
Sheriff Harley (Kim McCoy): Will someone step forward to post for Manolo this week? Monday June 3rd, 2024 1:35:51 PM
[OOC: Michael Albu is out for this week. Can one (or more) of you volunteer to sub in posting for Manolo this week? If so, cool. Also, make the header something like this:
Manolo (Kim sub for Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43
- But instead of 'Kim' - put your name.
I'll delete this post once I see someone stepping in for him. Thanks in advance! --Sheriff Harley]
"We took no advice of yours, we just paused to figure our our gameplan. Now I doubt you came here to exchange recipes, so can we skip the pleasantries and just tell us why you're here."
Manolo (Nick K sub for Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Monday June 3rd, 2024 2:53:13 PM
Manolo hung back, staying near to the wall in order to be overlooked. His self appointed job was to listen and observe: to try to read between the lines. So he said nothing.
"There's no need to be rude." Torryn admonished quietly. "Please, you are most welcome and yes, the pie is excellent." She informed the minotaur. "Ladies, you should also partake." She told the two panther women.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Monday June 3rd, 2024 7:16:36 PM
Gnubert scowls at the minotaur. The cleric refuses to sit at the same table as the beast, and walks as far as he can from it. "Hospitality my foot! he murmurs more to himself than to anyone. The cleric's dislike of the beast can be easily read by all in the room.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Tuesday June 4th, 2024 5:04:09 AM Loryn puckers his lips at the refusal of the panther women and then explains they have postponed their search after some private discussion. He asks if they’d care for some pie and suggests they just straightforward say what they came to. Hank sits down and crosses a leg. He confirms that they abandoned the quest but not on the group’s advice and also asks their guests to speak their piece. He mentions he won’t break the rules of hospitality but the minotaur is on his dren-list. Mortimer attempts to lighten the mood by kraken the door about Hank’s hospitality and then says he’s been expecting them. He says they are welcome to be there and that they should try the pie Ash couldn’t stay silent. He says they took no advice of the order’s and suggests they skip pleasantries and get down to why their guests are here. Manolo stays back to listen and observer Torry says their is no need to be rude and agrees that the pie is excellent and suggests their guests partake. Gnubert scowls at the minotaur and says hospitality his foot
Things were going pretty good until Gnubert’s outburst. In response the Minotaur has one of his own, leaning forward with a deep growl
“Look Gnome, I don’t like this anymore than you do, but I have my orders even if I disagree with them.”
One of the panthers standing next to him reaches out and squeezes the minotaur’s knee, saying “Peace Razahtlab. If we are to pitch the alliance that the elder suggested then we must be polite to our hosts.”
The other turns her attention to the Argentum, “It is said the enemy of my enemy is my friend. You turned down your former patron’s continued employ and you know the score with the Treasure Box of Svengaxi. We know he won’t give up that easily and we don’t trust him. You are a competent adventuring party and a known quantity. The elders think that if it is inevitable that the box is found, it is better for us to hire you to recover the box for us to hide and hold, before anyone else can claim it. With your former employer able to hand out powerful items like candy a direct confrontation seems unwise.”
The minotaur has no interest in snacks, but though they turned down the chair the women accept the food. It seems that they are less unwilling to sit and more staying right next to their companion to be in range to prod him when he’s being rude.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:26 F11: R12 W:15 Tuesday June 4th, 2024 5:42:28 AM
"Alas, the argument that I presented to Hiroshi holds just as much for you as him." Torryn replied calmly. " Whoever sacrificed themselves to ensure its secrecy did a very good job. Why compromise that? I suggest you continue in your chosen path: watch, monitor and react dependent upon the situation. You certainly seem very well informed." She really didn't see that much good could come from this box and felt that the Argentium's could be far better spent actually helping others: good people that needed their help.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Tuesday June 4th, 2024 10:07:05 AM
Ash walks closer to Gnubert, and pats the man on his shoulder. The mage himself keeps his mouth shut, but his stare at the minotaur let's anyone know how much he doesn't like the creature. Figuring Torryn's words were in line with his, he lets her speak her mind for him.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Tuesday June 4th, 2024 11:55:07 AM
'Torryn is right ' , Manolo thinks. 'Something so world breaking , where are the gods? If something is lost they should just destroy it after finding it, He smiles, looking to see how things unfold.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Tuesday June 4th, 2024 12:03:12 PM
Hank chews his cheek in thought as the others speak, then raises a hand to draw their attention. "If I may share a thought? I come from a family of merchants. I am a security specialist, but I rub shoulders with salesmen everyday. I think the problem is with your pitch. This group," he gestures to the party, "Is not the most mercenary-minded group of people. They want to help good people in need. What you, and Mr. Hiroshi, have presented are hypotheticals -- a mysterious artifact that could hypothetically cause harm to a hypothetical victim. It's too murky. They want something concrete and specific, otherwise it just feels like their only motivation is profit. Which doesn't bother me, but obviously you need to. Get the whole group on board. We need a concrete danger and a concrete victim in need of our help."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday June 4th, 2024 4:44:04 PM
They certainly were well informed. To the gnome's knowledge no one else should no anything about any of this. Then again, the near involvement of the Argentium was bringing precisely the type of attention that no one wanted concerning the 'box'.
At least no one was angry at the pies, but how could one be really. A silly thought. Loryn tilted his head, "Excuse me I might be a bit confused here. We were under the direct impression that a powerful sacrifice was made in order to assure the 'Box' was never located. Now you are saying your elders believe the rediscovery is inevitable and apparently imminent and a being of considerable power who wishes to keep the 'box' safe is not a good thing. I feel like you are here for us, not because you believe we are a good and proper group over the collector Hiroshi, but because we are believed to be harmless with regard to the box. in other words, Hiroshi could put it to use and we cannot."
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Tuesday June 4th, 2024 7:19:30 PM
Gnubert leans forward meeting the beast's growl with his own, "Look Beast, the Gods themselves would need to magically appear in front of me, anoint me with oil, and make me King of the Wold before I would consent to do anything with, or for you!"
Gnubert stands up tall (all 3 feet of him) and glares at the minotaur. Diplomacy be damned.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Wednesday June 5th, 2024 6:54:18 AM Torry suggests that whoever sacrificed themselves to ensure the secrecy of the Box did a very good job and there is no good reason to mess with that. She asks why compromise that and suggests they go back to monitoring the situation.
Ash walks closer to Gnubert and pats him on the shoulder. He stares daggers at the minotaur. Manolo thinks that Torry is right and wonders where the Gods are.
Hank suggests the order members need to alter their sales pitch to convince the rest of the party Loryn suggests that the elders believe that the finding of the box is inevitable and that the party is preferable to Hiroshi because Hiroshi could potentially use it while the party could not.
Gnubert says the Gods would have to annoint him with oil as king of the world before he would do anything with the minotaur
The minotaur glares at Gnubert and through clenched teeth says, Were it up to me I wouldn't work with you either, but wiser heads then mine make such decisions."
One of the panther sorceresses takes over. ”You make a sound argument, the same argument we have been operating under these centuries since the Box was lost. Our elders command powerful divination magics allowing them to prophesize whenever someone might find the box. Through this we have intercepted them and discouraged their search. This has worked until now.
The other one continues, Now the situation is different. As your gracious gnomish friend surmised we no longer think this is possible. Our elders have been working hard to try to predict the outcome of our dispute for the past several days and while they cannot see who will find the Box, they are certain it will not remain hidden where it is.
The minotaur nods at the two sorceresses having calmed down and says, “Despite your ignorant comments several days ago you seem honest and good hearted, and as you surmised even if you took the box it is far less a threat in your hands then in others. If this man who hired you finds it, maybe it just disappears into a collection for all eternity, but events are stirring and at this point we cannot determine how many are hunting the box. Maybe the only player on the board is your former employer or maybe not but typically the more one is determined to pull a thread the more things unravel and others start to pay attention. While I don’t like you and would prefer to just confront whomever finds it and take it from them, the elders feel you can be trusted to win the race to the box and surrender it to us.
(OOC: please check your mailboxes for an important email regarding the future of the campaign)
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:26 F11: R12 W:15 Wednesday June 5th, 2024 8:13:39 AM
"Well, that IS a problem." Agreed Torryn. "It just seems that 'box-hunting' isn't really the Argentium thing to do. Stopping bad guys IS. Yes, we can - " She didn't get to finish her sentence as in came her teacher, Agratha. The elderly halfling was waving a letter excitedly.
"Oh, I do beg your pardons. I didn't mean to interrupt. If I could just borrow Torrynashkabbeth for a few moments." She smiled apologetically.
Torryn stood and approach Agratha. She was worried. That was because no one ever called her Torrynashkabbeth unless she was in trouble. However, at her approach Agratha smiled broadly and thrust the letter at her. Torryn read it and beamed in delight. She spun around to inform the others.
"I did it! I got in! I've been accepted at the Sacred Dancer Academy of Fine Arts! Oh...." She rushed forward and embraced each in turn, giving them heartfelt hugs. "But I must leave at once. the new term has already started!" She then spun around to face Agratha anew. "Do my parents know yet?"
""Oh yes, it to them that the letter went. You've been very busy, you see. Now come, we must go arrange everything and ensure that Spot is happy to make the journey." Agratha replied with a gentle smile.
"This is all so sudden. Goodbye everyone. Thank you for being such dear friends. I know you'll carry on doing the right thing. fare well!" And with that she darted out of the door before the tears came. Agratha stayed a moment and bowed to the gathered assembly.
"I know Torryn's departure doesn't help, but it is necessary. Such is the way of the Sacred Dancer." She then calmly left; that calm in total contrast to the whirlwind that was Torryn's exit.
~~~~~~~
OOC: Thanks all! I am winding down. Just one game left to smoothly depart. All the best!
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Wednesday June 5th, 2024 11:16:16 AM
Manolo is left flabbergasted by the event unfolding in front of him The sacred dancer is gone to the dance academy? What nonsense was that, he couldn't believe it. "This must be some kind foolery and trickery by the gods, she didn't just leave, did she?", he says after Torryn leaves.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Wednesday June 5th, 2024 2:33:28 PM
"See, you almost had me... until you said our ignorant statements. The only ignorant here is you. Even your two compatriots have enough tact and class to be forthcoming...." Ash's words trail off as Torryn is accepted into the dance academy. He smiles, but is also a little upset as one of theirs is leaving.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday June 5th, 2024 2:53:47 PM
Loryn looks on to the exchange between Agatha and Torrynashkabbeth. He sists straighter and hops up on his chair as he learns what is going on, a last joke, "You can't leave! All the plants will die!" He provides a good hug, as best as he can manage and a proper wink for good luck. "Fare thee well Torrynashkabbeth, Sacred Dancer" and with that she was gone.
Was that 5 now? No at least 6 perhaps more, though some felt more keenly than others by their duration of stay. It was the way of the Wold and certainly the life of a hero and adventurer. Speaking of which...
Actually 'Box' hunting was right up Loryn's alley, but he knew several in the group were not overly keen on the matter and when it looked like there was to bow out, he sided that direction to do so. Now Drack was gone and Torrynashkabbeth was leaving as well, which were the two in most opposition to a treasure hunt. Minotaurs came off gruff, so they say, and this particular minotaur had really struck a cord with Gnubert. Loryn was not quite sure he followed why, but sometime things can simply rub you wrong.
Loryn turned his attention back to the matter at hand, "Other groups? Race to the Box? The only clue we have is hundreds of years old, or at least that was our impression. Has precisely what we were hoping to not happen, now happened? Sounds like you are saying 'The orc's finger is out of his nose and everyone can see his business.' I have so many questions and most of them have to do with what has so radically changed?"
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Wednesday June 5th, 2024 7:19:58 PM
Gnubert smiles broadly at Torry knowing this was her dream, "Be safe dear friend. I will miss you and your dancing." The cleric watches another of his friends disappear and silently wipes his eyes. too much like family, although is it ever too much Gnubert thinks to himself before turning back to the interlopers in his family. The cleric continues to glare at the beast but attempts to listen to the arguments being laid out in front of him.
OOC: Be safe Nick!
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Wednesday June 5th, 2024 11:26:55 PM "Wha?!" Is all Mortimer can say. This was quite the shock, he wasn't expecting this. He even forgot to roll his eyes at the Minotaur's snide comment or Ash's retort. He didn't know how to react. He had neither the propensity or the inclination to express affection or tenderness to someone. Why would he, none had ever been given to him. He just gives a simple wave goodbye, which seemed sufficient in most situations. This was what she always wanted ... and with that, he was glad for her.
He wishes he had stolen something of hers ... a memento. Now he's missed his chance.
(ooc: Sorry to see you go, Nick.)
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Thursday June 6th, 2024 9:36:03 AM Torry was in the middle of explaining box hunting isn’t really the Argentum’s thing when Agratha showed up and delivered news that Torry had gotten into the Sacred Dancer school of Fine Arts and she bids the others good bye. Manolo is left flabbergasted by the event unfolding in front of him. Ash said the minotaur almost had him till he mentioned the ignorant statements but then is distracted by Torry’s departure. Loryn cracks a joke about all the plants dying if Torry leaves before hugging her goodbye. He then turns his attention back to the matter at hand and ponders all the questions he has specifically what has changed so rapidly. Gnubert smiles broadly knowing Torry is following her dream. He thinks that this is too much like family and then glares back at the interlopers. Mortimer is shocked and uncertain how to react to the sudden departure.
Their guests give the party time to say their goodbyes. The minotaur very clearly wants to clearly wants to retort to Ash but holds himself back until after everyone’s had a chance to calm down.
Once things do, the minotaur states to Ash, “Yes ignorance regarding lamps, bottles, elemental gems and other means of enslaving sentient creatures to forcibly do one’s bidding. You likened the treasure box to one of these lesser items of enslavement like it was no big deal. But to some people it is a big deal and the treasure box and the possible endless supplies of orbs it produces are so much worse than a mere lamp, bottle or elemental geml, which I would also argue are only tools of evil”
The Twins panthers look at each other for several moments, considering. ”We’re getting off on tangents. It is clear members of our groups do not like each other, Arguing semantics and insults won’t change the nature of the situation.” One says.
The other continues, ”The situation is simple - the box will be found, either by this Hiroshi, his agents, or some unknown party protected against our divination. This we know. Our order will not let it fall into the hands of another. There is simply too much risk with such a dangerous item.”
“You can remain uninvolved, trusting that it will be found by someone with good intentions, but if you are wrong this area you protect will face the consequences first. It was last reported in this area, and someone with ill intent will likely test it’s powers nearby if they claim it.”
“Will you help us prevent this risk? Or will you stand aside and do nothing? Discuss among yourselves and tell us your decision. Nothing else needs to be said.”
Finished with their statement they nudge the Minotaur and move off with him to give the party privacy.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday June 6th, 2024 10:32:00 AM
When the three guests are out of earshot, Hank whispers to the rest of the party. "I say we go back to Hiroshi, take the job, find the box, get a big payday, and do some good in the world. These guys bug me, and I have no problem with hurting their feelings by returning the box to Hiroshi."
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Thursday June 6th, 2024 10:59:19 AM
"I don't know if I trust Hiroshi one way or another" Ash whispers to the group. " I do know I don't like that bull headed goon though... though his allies seem to be okay." Ash adds as he steals a glance at the panther ladies, even given a small smile to them.
" I say we be heroes... right. That's us.. we go get this box and we give it to neither. Turn it over to the wla, or one of the Dragon Groups. "
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday June 6th, 2024 12:56:17 PM
Loryn has been understanding the Minotaurs' stance on the aforementioned bottles, lamps and gems ever since the gnome brought it up originally and it had given him pause on the matter. Loryn would not be baited into a larger debate on the subject and thus he was content to steer the conversation away from that area. Loryn ushers the Argentium out of the front room and into the kitchen. He did not think they would snoop about beyond the front room, but he did think they might try to drop eaves on the conversation.
Once in the kitchen, he stokes of the stove and puts several pots to cooking. "A little background sound and..." the gnome casts Message
"Better, now lets discuss. Given what has transpired so far, I am inclined to agree with Ash. This latest round if information, to me, says we should get involved. Now, we either side with one or the other or we go it alone. The downside of going alone is to be cut from what seems to be some pretty capable divination and informational magic. I don't, rather I wont side with one just for the info and then NOT turn over the item.
Loryn lets that sit and then adds, "My preference is to be independent and upon finding the item we take responsibility for it." Looking to Ash, "I dont think its right putting a burden like this on someone else. As you say, we are to be the heroes...that and I believe the 'Dragons' are a thing of the past, we have to look to ourselves now.
Thoughts?"
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Thursday June 6th, 2024 5:21:12 PM
"By finding the box with no patrons and on nobody's side .....we are going to potentially end fighting Hiroshi's agents and the crazy minotaur and his cult", Manolo adds. "Both have an agenda and I don't like either of them...if we get rewards for it.....seems nice but again I can't trust either one of them at all", he says, thinking about their conundrum
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Thursday June 6th, 2024 6:54:40 PM
Gnubert says little, knowing he will agree to do what the party decides. The cleric nods slightly at the thought of going without either sides assistance but says nothing.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Friday June 7th, 2024 12:02:12 AM "Wit' Hiroshi and crew on one side ... and the minotaur gang on the other, I don't cotton to the idea of bein' the meat in that butty. Pick a side ta run with, we should."
He looks around to make sure no one is listening and he continues. "I say we go with Puss an' Hooves in there. They 'ave powerful diviners ... not ta mention, lore that Hiroshi may not 'ave. An' they're less likely ta kill us if we're workin' with'em, yeah."
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Friday June 7th, 2024 6:08:54 AM Hank whispers to the rest of the group that they should go back to Hiroshi and take the job to get rewarded and he has no problem hurting the order’s feelings.
Ash says he doesn’t know how he feels about Hiroshi, that he doesn’t like the bull headed goon but his companions seem okay and that they should be heroes by getting the box and giving it to neither party.
Loryn ushers the Argentum into the kitchen and makes it difficult to be eavesdropped on using mundane and magical means. He voices his support for the independent route and suggests dragon groups are a thing pf the past.
Manolo suggests they are going to have to fight both Hiroshi’s agents and the cult but both have an agenda and he doesn’t trust either. Gnubert says little as he knows he will agree to do what the party decides. Mortimer isn’t so sure fighting both sides is a good idea and suggests they should pick one or the other.
The discussion continues. Two seem to be in favor of going it alone, while others are torn or favor one side or the other.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Friday June 7th, 2024 6:18:57 AM
Manolo scratches his head as an idea, a crazy one, pops in his head. "We could potentially split up and work for both", he simply says. "Otherwise , I don't know if we can agree about what to do but leave it all alone and potentially make the consequences appear surprisingly in our own turf and the very place we want to protect"
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Friday June 7th, 2024 7:04:18 PM
Ash nods to Loryn in agreement on his last line. "Listen.. we have to find it, that parts a definite. It's just the aftermath of what we do with it that needs a discussion, and that can be figured out on the way.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday June 7th, 2024 8:09:33 PM "If we don't pick a side, they will smash us between them. If we have to pick a side... Well, one side has fed us, rewarded us, and complimented us repeatedly. The other side insulted us, threatened us, and attacked us. It seems like a pretty easy choice."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Saturday June 8th, 2024 4:21:38 PM
Loryn listens and nods at Mortimer, though in truth, he was pretty sure he did not understand much of it. He recognized the words being used, but the way in which they were strung together left his mind baffled.
"True enough and I agree as well." is the gnomes response to both Ash and Hank
"One last thought, what if we told both sides that we intend to locate and secure the chest? Any assistance provided would be appreciated with the understanding we will be determining what to do with the item once we have it?
Loryn sighs, "Either side is going to be nearly instantly aware if we pick a side ahead of time. As soon as we tell Hiroshi we are in, that group in there, is going to know. If we go with Hiroshi, which if we have to choose, I feel is the better course, I'm also making sure those three know that before they leave."
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Sunday June 9th, 2024 8:01:08 PM "Let's see we have one side that has bribed us," Gnubert points to the ion stone above his head. "We have one side that has tried to kill us" Gnubert points to the Minotaur and party. "We have one party who wants a cool box to gain more influence with his friends," Gnubert points to the stone again, "and one that wants to ensure the cool box isn't used against others." Gnubert points to the minotaur again.
The gnome pauses for a moment and rubs his chin. "Neither sides choice is better than the other. And while I would rather beat that bull headed beast with a maul than do most anything. Sideing with those who would prevent slavery, and domination may be the better choice."
Gnubert clambers down from his chair, "That being said being good, and doing good for good's sake is the best option. We are good. Both parties are obviously not. I choose my friends over either of them everyday of the week, and twice on Sunday. I will happily walk into oblivion with each of you before I willingly let harm come to any of you. Make the decision, and let's get this thing started."
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Monday June 10th, 2024 5:03:47 AM Manolo scratches his head as a crazy idea pops into his head. He suggests split the party up and work for both groups. Otherwise he suggests potentially going back to leaving it alone and try to direct the consequences to their own turn and the place they want to protect. Ash nods to Loryn in agreement on his last line. He says they have to find it and that is definite but the only thing up in the air is what to do with it and that needs a discussion and can be figured out on the way. Hank suggests if they don’t pick a side they’ll end up smashed between the two and points out how the one side has fed and rewarded, and complimented them repeatedly while the other side has insulted, threatened and attacked them and it seems like an easy choice to him. Loryn listens and nods at Mortimer then tells Ash and Hank he agrees with both. He suggests telling both sides they intend to locate and secure the chest and any assistance provided would be appreciated with the understanding they will be determining what to do with the item once they have it. He points out that either side is going to be nearly instantly aware if they choose one and says if they do make their choice first and it is Hiroshi they should tell their guests. Gnubert summarizes their choices and suggests neither choice is better than the other and while he’d rather beat the bull headed beast with a maul than do most anything siding with the group looking to prevent slavery and domination may be the better choice. He says being good and doing good for good’s sake is the best option. He says he would chose his friends over any of them every day of the week and twice on sundays and would gladly walk into oblivion with each of them before allowing harm to come to any of them so they should make the decision and get things started.
The discussion continues but no clear consensus has been made.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Monday June 10th, 2024 11:48:03 AM
Mortimer knows his street speak gets a little thick the more frustrated he becomes. Everyone, especially Loryn, is looking at him as if he were 'git faced'; deserving to be punched.
"Are yoos no' understandin 'he wawds comin ou' ov me gob, yeah?" he asks. (translation: Verily I say unto you, do you understand not the words I speak?")
(ooc: Maybe Mortimer needs to have his 'My Fair Lady' moment some time in the near future :)
After Gnubert has his say, Mortimer aggressively points to the priestly gnome and says, "Yeah! That's no blatherskite there!" He says in agreement.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday June 10th, 2024 2:28:02 PM
Hank sighs and nods his head. "Okay, let's break this deadlock. I am fine with going with the minotaur under three conditions." He holds up a finger. "One, they do not send a babysitter to accompany us." He holds up another finger, "Two, we negotiate compensation ahead of time, half up front." Another finger. "And three, we have full salvage rights to anything besides the Box."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Monday June 10th, 2024 7:00:24 PM
Manolo sighs. ' I wonder what Lanliss companions would have done?' He didn't gave the luxury of tj.e to ponder and wonder . He stands up slowly going to face the minotaur. He looks at him dead in the eye. "You are quick tempered and easily angered. It would have helped if you were less aggressive but I can accept the reason why" He stops thinking and raises his hand slowly, he looks back and makes a gesture with his pinky finger."Pinky promise me that you are not the bad guy and that you will do everything to protect the box And make sure it is either kept very safe or destroyed. ". He waits for response.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Monday June 10th, 2024 7:42:01 PM
Gnubert looks at Hank, "As acceptable as anything else I suppose. Let's get to it."
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Tuesday June 11th, 2024 9:05:36 AM Mortimer asks the others if they can understand him and then agrees with Gnubert’s reasoning. Hank sighs and nods his head and finally relents that he is willing to work with the minotaur on 3 conditions. The first the argentum does not get a babysitter from the order, the second is they negotiate compensation ahead of time and the third is they have salvage rights to anything that is not the box. Manolo approaches the minotaur and tells him he would have helped if he was less aggressive though he can accept the reason why. He asks the minotaur to pinky promise him that the minotaur is not the bad guy and that he will do everything to protect the box and make sure it is either kept safe or destroyed. He then waits for a response. Gnubert accepts Hanks conditions to present to the order and then suggests they get to it.
The minotaur looks at the offered human pinky with a raised eyebrow. It is small and pink and so much smaller than his own. After a pause he then extends his own furry brown thick pinky and links it with Manolo’s. When the action is done he asks, “So are we going to work together then to recover the artifact?”
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Tuesday June 11th, 2024 9:10:02 AM
Ash still has resentments but keeps his mouth shut. When the two pinky swear, Ash just looks down at his boots, but again keeps quiet.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday June 11th, 2024 7:17:19 PM
Chin up Ash, Loryn whispers through the spell. “We’ll see it done”he replies to the Minotaur “ our first order of business is going to be to establish a trail from this warlord that sacked the Armory. Ant thoughts or clues from your end?”
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Tuesday June 11th, 2024 7:35:53 PM
Gnubert watches the pinky swear and laughs to himself. I guess that is just as good as any he thinks to himself. "Well any suggestions on a direction of travel?" the cleric asks the new members of the alliance.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Tuesday June 11th, 2024 8:54:30 PM
"Yes", Manolo says firmly. "One moment", he says quickly afterwards. "We are doing this together, any last objections or change of heart?, now is the definitie time" If no one objects or has a change of heart, Manolo takes this as a sign that they finally chose a side for the time being and can focus on doing something regarding the box.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Tuesday June 11th, 2024 11:34:07 PM "Sooo, let's discuss our terms. What are you willing to offer in terms of retainer, per diem, and salvage rights?" Hank smiles his best customer service smile.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Wednesday June 12th, 2024 7:34:08 AM Ash still has resentments but keeps his mouth shut. He looks down at his boots as the pinky swear occurs but keeps quiet. Loryn tells Ash to keep his chin up via the spell. He says they’ll see it doen and the fist order of business is to establish a trail from the warlord that sacked the Armory and asks for any thoughts or clues. Gnubert watches the pinky swear and laughs to himself and figures it is as good as any. He too asks for travel directions. Manolo asks for any last second objections. Hank wants to talk terms.
The minotaur answers Hank. ”The thing with being a secret order is that to stay a secret we don’t interact with the outside world much. That’s why the elder’s felt we needed you to act openly on our behalf. It also limits us in terms of payment. We cannot offer you gold or riches, but my elders are skilled in the ways of magic. They could craft magical items to reward you for your efforts. Other than that, we care only for the box. Anything else you find is yours.”
The panther ladies add, “We have tried to research the time period the box vanished as best we can despite our isolation, so we may be able to help. Did that armory happen to hold the name of the warlord that ransacked it?”
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Wednesday June 12th, 2024 11:45:36 AM
Ash immediately looks up, and Nods to Loryn. He turns his attention to the minotaur and panther ladies, listening to their end of the deal and payment they are willing to offer.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Wednesday June 12th, 2024 4:13:06 PM
Having read the old papers he found many times, he immediately recalls the name of the person in question. Mortimer replies to the panther ladies question.
"Yeah... it was a big, arse-faced ogre tha' wen' by the name of Warlard Kronk! Ring any bells, yeah?"
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday June 12th, 2024 5:47:06 PM
Loryn was not overly interested in getting paid or what not, but was not about to speak up on that as he knew at least Hank was of that mind. For the gnome, the adventure, experience and excitement would be enough. Of course, he would not be turning things down and away either, those were part of the experience after all.
Mortimer had the name readily available and so Loryn nods in agreement and starts thinking where they could do some leg work themselves. The WLA seemed his best likely next stop, but in the morning.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Wednesday June 12th, 2024 7:14:50 PM
Gnubert shakes his head, perhaps we chose poorly afterall he thinks to himself. Gnubert listens but says little else
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Wednesday June 12th, 2024 7:21:07 PM "Well, renumeration in currency is always preferred, but I suppose we could accept magical services in lieu of direct payment. Between the base retainer for adventurers of our caliber, per diem expenses, hazard pay, and service fees, I believe an amount of 5,000 gold pieces, or its equivalent in magical services, per team member would be sufficient. However, since payment would be in the form of magical services, it would be necessary for said magical services to be rendered prior to adventuring activities. Both to ensure successful renumeration, as well as to increase the likelihood of successful adventuring activities." Hank smiles. "I can understand any hesitation you might feel to provide renumeration before we engage in adventuring activities, but you are members of a secretive cult, and we are prominent members of a community with a fixed address. I am sure you understand."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Wednesday June 12th, 2024 8:03:44 PM
Manolo lets the others do the negotiations.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Wednesday June 12th, 2024 8:04:23 PM
And the info giving.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Thursday June 13th, 2024 7:22:09 AM Ash immediately looks up and nods at Loryn. He turns his attention to the minotaur and panther ladies to learn about their end of the deal and potential payment. Mortimer remembers the name of the person in question and tells the panther ladies it was the big arse-faced ogre tha went by the name of Warlard Kronk. Loryn was not overly interested in getting paid or what not and deferred to Hank on that front. For the gnome the adventure, experience and excitement would be enough but he wouldn’t turn down things down and away as that is part of the experience after all. Loryn nods in agreement with Mortimer’s name and figures they should do some legwork themselves so he plans to visit the WLA in the morning. Gnubert wonders if they chose poorly after all while listening and saying little. Hank says currency is preferred by quotes an amount of 5,000 gold a piece in magical services is fair for their labor and that payment is expected up front to increase the odds of success and increase the likelihood they get paid. He says he can understand hesitation on the up front payment but the order is a secretive cult and the Argentum are prominent members of a community with fixed address. Manolo defers to the other for negotiations and info giving.
Their party’s new allies are less than impressed by Hank’s spiel. Pulling out a full money pouch the minotaur opens it to reveal it’s mostly copper, with a few silver here and there. After a moment of counting and mental math he says, ”I have maybe five gold. You two?”
The other two shake their head, pulling out their pockets to show nothing but pocket lint. ”Again, we are a secret monastic order sworn to safeguard a dangerous item. While we command powerful magics, selling those magics to make money would raise far, far too much attention to us and we could hardly remain secret. We mainly subsist on what we can create ourselves. Nor do we have piles of excess magic items lying around - we create only what we need or are actively using. I propose a compromise. Decide each of you what magic item you would desire as payment and make a list. I shall bring it to our elders. While you complete the job, they shall craft the items in question. It is the best we can offer - delaying things so we can make a payment in advance just makes it more likely Hiroshi or some other may beat you to the box.”
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Thursday June 13th, 2024 7:33:02 AM
(whoops got so distracted researching peasant income forgot the other half of the post)
The trio consider the information Mortimer and the others offered. "The name is vaguely familiar. one of the panther woman says. "I believe he was defeated in the Red Hills relatively near here." The other one adds, "I think it took place somewhere called Eagle's Pass? It should be easy enough to locate if you ask around."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday June 13th, 2024 10:18:05 AM
Loryn arches a brow as Hank speaks, his head spinning a bit. Now was not the time to appear anything but unified here so Loryn hops up and take the offer. "More than fair and we will get back to you on that." he answers.
Sitting back, Loryn is concerned about how readily that information was available. It seemed almost common knowledge to any who have studied the area, and Hiroshi has most certainly studied the area. The gnome comes to the conclusion that not only does Hiroshi know everything they do, but he knew it sooner and is working to get someone to the pass.
Loryn gets up, "We have a considerable amount of work to do and time is pressing I'm afraid. If you will excuse us we need to get at it." Loryn ushers the visitors out of Minerva's.
First things first. "Hank? That was too far. We are striving to be Hero adventurers, not a sub group of the Mailed Fist. We decided to go after the box for the betterment of the area and others and i don't think we're sold yet on if we are even going to turn the box over to them anyway. Said my peace let's move on. I assume, Ash? you know where Eagles Pass is. If not, i would suggest a discreet visit to the WLA and look it up on maps of the area ourselves. Asking around brings that good old unwanted attention. no need to broadcast where we are going. I'll stock up the Bag of Holding with supplies and we should be good to go by tomorrow morning, uness the Pass proves a problem in locating. All Good?
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Thursday June 13th, 2024 3:56:27 PM
Manolo is happy with Loryn bossing everyone.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+10=27 ; d20+6=20 ; Thursday June 13th, 2024 9:56:37 PM
"I can figure it out," Ash answered Loryn. Ash excuses himself and heads to his room to check some books. Once he has the location, he'll rejoin through others and share.
Knowledge geography 27 Knowledge local 20
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Thursday June 13th, 2024 11:09:09 PM
Gnubert looks up at the ioun stone floating above his head, and then back at Hank. Perhaps a visit to the temple is what I need thinks Gnubert. "Loryn that is a great idea. Tomorrow then." Gnubert says before heading to his room. The young Gnome can only stand so much hypocrisy, especially his own.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday June 13th, 2024 11:57:31 PM
Hank holds out his hands in an appeasing gesture. "It was worth a try. After all, we would use any magic items to help those in need, anyway. Tomorrow it is, then."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life d20+14=16 ; Friday June 14th, 2024 12:43:00 AM "Don't forget, if we needta be dodgy an' discreet, like ya say," Mortimer then tips his hat with a nod. The shadows shift and swirl around him as he takes on a new appearance ... that of a short, potbellied and hairless, middle-aged human. With a wicked smile, he adds, "Make the rounds, I can, an' none the wiser, yeah."
(Mortimer activated his Hat of Disguise. Disguise: 16, natural 2, I hate the die roller.)
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Friday June 14th, 2024 7:14:11 AM Loryn arches an eyebrow at Hank but knows now is the time to send a unified front so he accepts the offer from the trio and says they will get back to them on that. Loryn figures Hiroshi knows everything they do and must be working to get someone to the pass as well. He ushers their guests out, then has a chat with Hank. He then asks Ash if he’s familiar with Eagle’s Pass otherwise a trip to the WLA is in order. He says he’ll get supplies in order and they’ll leave tomorrow. Manolo is happy to let Loryn be the boss. Ash says he can figure out the location then goes to consult his books. Gnubert thinks he needs a visit to the temple. He agrees Loryn has a great idea and then heads to his room. Hank holds his hands in an appeasing gesture and says it was worth a try as they would use any magic items to help those in need. He agrees that tomorrow is a good day to set out. Mortimer uses his hat of disguise to be dodgy and discreet and says he can make the rounds with none being the wiser.
The minotaur’s group are slightly confused at the sudden exit but don’t resist. ”Find what you can and return. We will know when to meet you here. Even just well preserved remnants of the old battle might be enough for us to scry a clue.”
Preparations are made. Ash is able to confirm the location of Eagle’s Pass. It’s a valley through the hills too far from any trade routes to be used and otherwise unremarkable, at least in recent times. It shouldn’t be too hard to find, though finding the old battle site once there might be harder. The next day the party is fully ready to depart.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Friday June 14th, 2024 9:36:29 PM
Manolo is eager to go and explore.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday June 14th, 2024 9:54:06 PM
Hank has no particular preparations to make, and stands ready to depart.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Saturday June 15th, 2024 10:55:46 AM
Ash shares any info he finds out, and preps his bags and spells before mustering with the group.
LOG ON