DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Monday August 12th, 2024 8:07:16 AM Loryn figures that a shipwreck at the bottom from over 100 years ago is going to be a tough find. He hopes they can get the route that the Blue Diamond likely ran. He raises a glass to the Minotaur in thanks for the information. He suggests that tomorrow they can work on selling the treasure from the vampires and seeing what company the Blue Diamond was with, assuming of course it was part of one. Gnubert raises an eyebrow at the thought of another underwater adventure. He nods his head towards the minotaur but says nothing. Ash is not looking forward to the open ocean.
After sharing a meal with the party and accepting their thanks the Minotaur takes his leave. "We will try to learn more about possible obstacles. Once you have secured the box it will be best if you make land rather than return to port - showing up with valuable treasure will draw too much attention. We’ll predict your landing spot for the hand off, then your ship can continue on with whatever else you find."
Now with all the clues they need the party just has to do a bit more investigating to get their final destination. They have the name of a ship and gear bearing sigils of what is likely the trading company the ship belongs to. They’ll also need a ship and captain who can be trusted to help with the salvage - unless the party thinks they can sail and run a salvaging operation on their own.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Monday August 12th, 2024 8:33:09 AM "Does anyone know any ships or captains at this port?"
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 Monday August 12th, 2024 6:59:56 PM
Gnubert waits until the minotaur leaves, "Well heck! Seems like we will have our work cut out for us. Anyone know if this town has a library, or a shipping guild? They maybe able to help us figure out where this ship is, or was headed, and have charts that can assist us in figuring out where shipping routes were at that time."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 d20=2 ; Monday August 12th, 2024 7:38:27 PM
Manolo catches only some of what has been said as he was between sleep and wakeness. .local knowledge d20= 2
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:70/57. false life, darkvision, heroism Tuesday August 13th, 2024 12:32:07 AM "See ya later Mister Numcy," he says with a smirk as the minotaur leaves. "It's so nice bein' able ta put a name to a face, yea'."
After the question is asked about ships or captains, Mortimer shakes his head no. "Sea Captains don't cotton ta 'avin' yours truly on their scip. Especially when they finds out your named means 'dead water'. Prolly a good idea not ta tells them that, yea'"
He tries to be optimistic, even though it hurts, "Maybe that sunkin' tub is dry docked in an underwater cavern, accessible via a tunnel at the edge of town."
DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Tuesday August 13th, 2024 9:01:48 AM Hank asks if anyone knows any ships or captains in port Gnubert waits until the minotaur leaves. He figures they have their work cut out for them and inquires if anyone knows of a local library or shipping guild reasoning either place could help Manolo catches only some of what is said being between sleep and wakeness Mortimer says that his name means most captains don’t like having him on their ship as his name means dead water.
In a port like this tracking things is of great importance. Somewhere there are records of ships, what they were carrying, where they were going, and when they arrived and left. Such record keeping is crucial for things like taxes, enforcing laws, and keeping ships safe or knowing where to look for lost ships. It’ll take some asking around but the party should be able to get the information they need. (Knowledge: Local, Diplomacy, or any other check you feel relevent will work, as well as what you are looking into IE, the ship, the company, or a captain to help you).
The party has never been here (to my knowledge), so as far as they know there is no captain they already know who could help. Of course ship captains tend to go from port to port so there's maybe a small chance.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 d20+5=7 ; Tuesday August 13th, 2024 7:35:14 PM
Gnubert looks at the others, "I will head to the local temple, and see what I can find out. Plus helping others is never a bad thing! the gnome says with a smile. Gnubert will skip cheerfully out of the tavern and head that way. Upon arriving the cleric offers his service as a devoted cleric and broaches the subject of sunken ships specifically the one they are after with others in the temple (Diplomacy 7 oof)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 d20=15 ; Tuesday August 13th, 2024 9:55:49 PM
"Yo drink it is", Manolo simply says. He stands up and says: "I am going to check in any local taverns or pubs for any Captain that is worth his gold". Manolo thank will go out and search for a worthy captain.
Local knowledge 26
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Tuesday August 13th, 2024 10:42:31 PM "I suppose talking with a Harbormaster would be a good idea, but I usually let my brothers handle those sorts of things. I'll tag along, but I may not be much help unless we encounter some thugs." Hank shrugs.
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+14=29 ; Wednesday August 14th, 2024 7:43:05 AM
Loryn heads to the harbor master to look into ggodly captains open to a non standard voyage. As members of the WLA the Argentium is looking to recover some records of members that were on a ship lost. Bluff 29 + WLA badge bonus
Flying to Punta. Sorry for short post
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:70/57. false life, darkvision, heroism d20+5=24 ; d20+8=25 ; Wednesday August 14th, 2024 8:26:39 AM
Mortimer decides to take care of the most important task... selling the loot and trinkets. He puts on this best, most convincing face. He'll even use his hat of disguise to improve his overall appearance; without altering it too much that he looked fake. He'll even cast his Luckism spell (aka. Heroism) to give himself the edge.
(Mortimer casts Heroism on himself. Duration: 80 minutes.)
(Appraise: 24. Diplomacy: 25.)
DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Wednesday August 14th, 2024 8:59:10 AM Gnubert tells the others he needs to head to a local temple and see what he can find out. He points out that helping others is never a bad thing. Upon arriving at the temple he offers his service as a devoted cleric and broaches the subject of sunken ships. Manolo says drink it is and heads out to the nearest tavern to find a worthy captain Hank is willing to go along to the harbormaster but doesn't usually do the talking for such things. Loryn goes along with Hank and steps up to do the talking. Mortimer goes off to sell the stuff using his skills to try to get a good deal.
At the temple… A lone tiny forlorn voice chimes up from a pew in response to Gnubert’s inquiry. “I had a ship once. Used to run a salvage operation so I saw a sunken ship or two or three and salvaged some as well. But that was in the past. I doubt I’ll ever get my ship from those Half-Orcs and their crooked card game. Unless… do you mean what you say sir cleric about being here to help or is that merely empty words? I don’t know what it is but something about you seems less than sincere. Can’t help but be frank with you. Perhaps my mouth is part of what got me in trouble at that card game.” You follow the voice to the pew and see a middle aged female gnome wearing what seems to be an artisan’s outfit that has been heavily modified. She’s wearing boots, pants, a blouse and leather apron with a number of thingamabobs and doodads tacked on.
Manolo ends up at an establishment called The Rusty Ear… When he inquires about a captain one of the patrons says, “I don’t know if you could call her a captain but Regina, she runs a card game out of one of the back rooms here and recently came into possession of a ship that seems to be specially outfitted for salvage operations. Perhaps she could take you where you needed to be for the right price? Alternatively maybe she’ll sell you the ship or even wager you for it of course you’d have to be able to beat her and her crew and as far as I know no one has come out ahead after playing them. It’s as if they collectively had Wardd’s own luck going for them but they are mortals so they can’t have the luck of a God unless they are doing something unethical perhaps?”
Hank and Loryn track down the harbormaster…
A harried looking liontaur mans the harbormaster’s office. In an official-looking uniform she bears scars that speak of a once adventurous lifestyle. Annoyed at the interruption, she dismissively directs the pair to the warehouse where all the old records are kept. They arrive to find a giant warehouse of cabinets, each labeled clearly with what it contains.
At the shops...
Mortimer has a lot of things to sell for a large amount of money. Fortunately as a port town this place is used to large amounts of valuable things flowing through so he is able to find buyers for his various stuff. It takes a while though, talking all through the morning and into the afternoon to various merchants, shop owners, and other potential buyers.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+6=21 ; Wednesday August 14th, 2024 9:22:06 AM
Ash tags along with Hank and Loryn. Going through files and manuals Harkens back to his time spent in a library.
Once there he begins perusing books and manuals.
Perception 21
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+14=29 ; Wednesday August 14th, 2024 9:34:59 AM
Loryn heads to the harbor master to look into ggodly captains open to a non standard voyage. As members of the WLA the Argentium is looking to recover some records of members that were on a ship lost. Bluff 29 + WLA badge bonus
Flying to Punta. Sorry for short post
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 d20+11=19 ; Wednesday August 14th, 2024 8:21:47 PM
Manolo asks about the back rooms and what was betted inside but doesn't enter for now.
'They are definitely cheating and I am at a disadvantage ', he thinks. ' who knows ? Maybe someone bet their ship', he thinks more.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 Wednesday August 14th, 2024 8:22:01 PM
Local knowledge 19
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 Wednesday August 14th, 2024 10:04:28 PM
Gnubert slows down and approaches the gnome, and bows his head respectfully, "I am always avaialble to help where, and how I may. A prayer, a spell, words of compassion, or grace, perhaps even a rebuke if necessary, and on occasion a mace." Gnubert slides into the pew close to the woman but not so close as to invade her space. "Tell me of these orcs that cheated your work from you"
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Wednesday August 14th, 2024 11:55:36 PM "Well, Loryn, I guess we just start looking." Hank will begin rifling through the stacks and drawers, looking for something close to the timeframe of the shipwreck.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:70/57. false life, darkvision, heroism Thursday August 15th, 2024 1:53:08 AM
At the end of a long day of bargaining and jedi mind tricks, Mortimer returns to the Inn to rejoin the others. He presents the bounty of treasure discreetly to the group, not to draw unwanted attention.
DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Thursday August 15th, 2024 8:12:47 AM Ash tags along with Hank and Loryn. Going through files and manuals reminds him of his time in a library so he peruses books and manuals here too. Manolo asks about the back rooms and what is betted inside but doesn’t go in for now. Gnubert slows down and approaches the gnome, bowing his head respectfully. He says he’s always available to help where and how he may. A prayer, a spell, words of compassion, or grace, perhaps even a rebuke and on occasion a mace. He slides into the pew getting close but not too close to be invasive of the gnome’s space and asks her of the orcs that cheats your work from you. Hank tells Loryn they just have to start looking and tries to find in the records something close to the timeframe of the ship wreck Mortimer returns to the inn after a long day of haggling to turn their unwanted sellable items into treasure and discreetly shows his haul to the group.
…At the records building
The records are both remarkably well-preserved and organized. It takes a while of digging, but the group is able to find records of old shipping organizations and quickly match the symbol of the gear they found to one. From there they find the ship known as the Blue Diamond belonging to said company - which is good because it turns out there have been many blue Diamonds over the years. Having the right ship and company they’re able to look up the documents on the final voyage the ship took. It carried some of the vengeful locals to the coastline near where Kronk's lair was before the battle and was to return them to the port once the fight was over, but never returned and was presumed lost on the way back. No one ever went looking for it, as no one seems to have known it was carrying treasure from the battle when it sank.
Digging through the records and discovering everything takes most of the day.
…At the Rusty Ear
The patron Manolo was chatting with says, “The gamble for pretty much anything of value. Ships, real estate, magic items, gold, platinum, trade goods, gems, artwork. You have the gold or platinum pieces or something worth a lot of gold or platinum pieces and it will get you a seat at the table. Of course whatever you brought to get you into the game probably won’t be yours much longer once you get back there.”
…At the Temple
Ducet says, “Well they say the Half-Orcs came from Dirt City. There’re four of them and they like to play Dirt City Hold-em which is a poker variant only cheating is encouraged, but getting caught cheating is not. I only learned that part after the fact, mind you. Their leader is a rogue called Regina, the other three are Baldrick the bard, a mage named Saul, and their muscle Franz. I had an idea for a new invention to improve how I could detect sunken ships only the materials needed to build it were prohibitively expensive. I heard about the card game in the back of the Rusty Ear and thought since I’m not so bad at cards myself maybe I could win enough to build it. Well I didn’t wager my ship at first. I turned the profit I had from my business into my stake only it didn’t seem to last that long and the Half-Orcs were getting ready to kick me out. I don’t think they’d appreciate the various inventions I made to improve my ability to tinker that I keep on my person so in desperation I wagered my ship and lost. They kicked me out after that.
After I learned what Dirt City Hold-em meant with respect to cheating and not getting caught I went back there and tried to get my ship back. They said straight up they were cheating, that was the game, and if I could guess how they’d let me play one more hand on the house for the ship. I saw Regina and Baldrick do some pretty fancy shuffling so I guessed they used Sleight of Hand to their advantage, I said the mage used magic and the other guy was just a good gambler but that wasn’t good enough for them. They wanted to know what particular spell the mage was using and if Baldrick was doing anything else. I was starting to make a scene at that point which was unwanted by the Half-Orcs so Franz roughed me up a little in kicking me out. That’s kind of when I ended up here.
I thought maybe I’d offer up a little prayer for help. o tell me sir cleric, are your prayers, spells, words of rebuke and potentially even your mace up for helping a poor old gnome recover what’s rightfully hers? Based on your original inquiry about sunken ships it sounds like you need to salvage something from one. I’d gladly help you do it for free if you got my ship back. That’s really all I have to offer.”
that evening...
The party gathers again with a variety of information and money to distribute. All together Mortimer was able to make 35,000 on the bounty of Vampire loot. He also learned there is Black Genie access here.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 Thursday August 15th, 2024 7:01:22 PM
Apart from sharing the information, Manolo adds. "I don't like the idea of playing against them, I can deal with cards but not with magic....what good will be my quickness with the cards if magic can disrupt everything?" "....perhaps unless any of you have an idea....I would resort to violence... they don't seem good kind people....they practically stole that ship"
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 Thursday August 15th, 2024 7:57:11 PM
Gnubert's face reddens and the cleric struggles to contain his rage, however, he manages to do both and after about 30 seconds he turns back to the woman "There are two issues the first, unfortunately, is you were at fault you didn't ask what the rules were and that puts part of the blame squarely on you. That being said, they took advantage of you and that is on them. I have some friends that should hear your story. Would you accompany me back to the inn and relate both your story, and your salvaging experience, and inventions. If we can convince them they may agree to help."
After finishing his day assisting in the temple Gnubert will walk with the woman back to the inn and introduce her to the others, By the way my name is Gnubert Glitterdust. What is yours?"
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Thursday August 15th, 2024 11:50:32 PM
Ash shares the info about the ship sinking with the others. He eats a quick meal before waiting on what the others want to do.
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday August 16th, 2024 6:44:50 AM
Dirt city folk, says it all for the most part. The Tide is from there though, but they are probably off saving the Wold. I’m willing to help a fellow gnome get her ship back. We have buy in and more than a little magic ourselves sounds like it could be fun. Catching them cheating is just as good as cheating ourselves.
treasure splits to 5,555
DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Friday August 16th, 2024 8:17:20 AM Manolo says he doesn’t like the idea of playing against the Half-Orc crew as they use magic and what good would his quickness with the cards be against magic. He proposes resorting to violence instead. Gnubert’s face reddens and he struggles to contain his rage. After about 30 seconds he composes himself and tells the gnome woman that there are two issues. The first is that part of the blame is on the woman for not asking what the rules were ahead of time. He points out that the half-orcs still took advantage of her and that is on them. He proposes she come back with him to the inn and relate her story and salvaging experience and inventions to his friends and she may have help. He later introduces himself and asks for the gnomish woman’s name to which she replies, “They call me Ducet because of what I find.” Ash shares what the others found about the ship’s route. Loryn reflects that Dirt City folks explains a lot and wonder’s what the Tide are up to.
Ducet agrees to accompany Gnubert back to the Inn and pretty much tells the party everything she’s already related to Gnubert, the fact that she used to own a ship specially outfitted for salvage operations and could probably help them find and recover the treasure of the Blue Diamond (assuming the party shared with her what they were looking for) for free if they’d retrieve her ship from the half-orcs
Manolo suggests they resort to violence when dealing with the half-orcs. Ducet says, “Well Franz did rough me up the second time I went to the their door but the thing is they pay the establishment a cut to look the other way when they do something but were someone to try something to the Half-Orcs in broad daylight the Rusty Ear’s patrons, staff and the town guard might intervene. I’d suggest if you are just going to fight them for it, that you attack in the dead of night. Things calm down pretty much after 1 am at the Rusty Ear”
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 Friday August 16th, 2024 10:09:53 PM
"So what are your thoughts folks?" " Fighting ? Or playing a game of cheating without being caught and or...", Manolo laughs. " or even if we catch them cheating, we fight them", he says .
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 Sunday August 18th, 2024 6:41:38 PM "Perhaps we detrmine how they are cheating and beat them at their own game. The last thing we need is to make enemies of the entire town," Gnubert muses. "They did tell Ducet if she could tell them how they were cheating she could have her ship back."
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Sunday August 18th, 2024 10:08:44 PM
"Lets go an watch. Maybe if we show up en masse, they'll frazzled and reveal themselves?"
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Sunday August 18th, 2024 11:44:39 PM "Where is the ship currently docked? I think we could arrange for the crew to receive some drugged wine, and toss them dockside when they are passed out. What do you think?"
DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Monday August 19th, 2024 7:55:00 AM Manolo asks if they are going to fight or play a game of cheating without getting caught or if they catch the Half-Orc’s cheating they fight them. Gnubert suggests they determine how the Half-Orcs are cheating and then beat them at their own game. He suggests they don’t want to make enemies of the entire town. He points out that they did tell Ducet if she could tell them how they were cheating they’d spot her another hand for the ship. Ash suggests they go and watch. Perhaps if they showed up en masse the Half-Orcs might get frazzled and reveal themselves. Hank asks where the ship is currently docked and suggests arranging for the crew to receive some drugged wine and toss them dockside when they are passed out.
Ducet says, “I modified my ship so that I could run it by myself, however I’m pretty much the only person who could do it that way. The half-orcs hired a retired naval officer as captain and some deckhands they picked up at one of the lesser establishments in town as crew,”
It’s getting late, which is when the card game is supposed to happen. If the party decides to go watch or play they should head out soon, if they want to fight or tamper with drinks then they may want to get some sleep early so they’re fully rested for their night time activities.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:70/57. false life, darkvision, heroism Monday August 19th, 2024 8:33:03 AM
When it came to playing cards, Mortimer knew the basics. He also had a very believable poker face. His ability to lie has always been his ace in the hole. Unfortunately he could never really have an actual ace in his hand. Of course, Wardd does favor those who press their luck.
Mortimer listens on to what the others have to say. He's not really in a talkative mood. He's been running his mouth all day trying to sell their loot.
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday August 19th, 2024 10:21:31 AM
Loryn scowls at Hank and Manolo and state emphatically "No. The Argentium will not be drugging anyone and sneaking into a tavern and accost people. Lets do as Ash is suggesting. Let's go and see if we can observe a game and gather some real information. But lets go not as a massive group. Gnubert and i are gnomes and surely we all look alike to most and half orc aren't known for their keen recall. Story will be my Cousin Gnubert is visiting with his friends Ash and Hank. Now Mortimer you bluff your way in with Manolo as visiting merchants. Hey you spent the entire day selling stuff, how much more of a Merchant could you be. Also makes you loaded with coin. Mayhaps we can get invited to join a game and better yet as some individuals who do not know each other."
Loryn opens his hands looking for agreement and if so, gestures for Ducet to lead the way to where she could point out the tavern. Loryn strongly suggests she stay behind and out of sight
Active Spell: Mage Armor +4AC 8 hours Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: Dancing Lights 1st lvl: 7/8 2nd lvl: 8/8 3rd lvl: 6/6 4th lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 Monday August 19th, 2024 7:14:24 PM
Gnubert looks at Loryn his mouth agape,"you came up with all that just off the top of your head? I guess I should probably not wear my surcoat and tuck my holy symbol under my shirt as well! That was amazing my friend and should probably work."
Gnubert unlaces the sides of his surcoat, and folds it up carefully before placing it in his haversack. "I am ready."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 Monday August 19th, 2024 7:58:17 PM
Manolo looks at Gnubert and replies, "off we go, I guess the less time we delay this the less time our friends will have the chance to prepare for our arrival at the table".
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Monday August 19th, 2024 9:47:08 PM
Ash is good with the ruse. He's easy to blend into the story, as he usually won't open his mouth and keeps to himself. When they head out, so does Ash.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Monday August 19th, 2024 11:47:53 PM "You know, I'm the one who opened with negotiation with the vampires, and I'm the one suggesting we take the ship through trickery. I hope you would give the fighter of the party credit for being the least violent..." Hank gives Loryn a wink.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:70/57. false life, darkvision, heroism Tuesday August 20th, 2024 8:31:54 AM "I could be a blind merchant." Mortimer closes his eyes and reopens them as gray, pupil-less orbs devoid of vision. (Thanks to his hat of disguise.) "Who would suspect a bloke like me, yea'?"
He immediately goes into the 'blind man grift' with looking blindly into the distance. Manolo, 'ere," as he purposely points in the wrong direction, "can be my partner and guide."
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 Tuesday August 20th, 2024 8:21:46 PM
Gnubert shakes his head and laughs long and hard. When they are ready to leave the cleric will follow them trying to not draw attention to the group.
DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Tuesday August 20th, 2024 9:23:31 PM Mortimer realizes he knows the basics of cards and has a very believable poker face. His ability to lie had always been his ace in the hole and listens to what others have to say. He’s not really in a talkative mood as haggling is tiresome. Loryn tells Hank and Manolo that the Argentium will not be drugging anyone or sneaking into a tavern to accost people. He suggests they follow Ash’s lead and see if they can observe a game and gather some real information. He suggests they not go as a massive group. He suggests Gnubert and him pretend to be related and visiting with his friends Ash and Hank and that Manolo and Mortimer can be visiting merchants who are loaded with coin and potentially get an invite to play. If there is agreement he looks to Ducet to lead the way toward the tavern while staying unobtrusive Gnubert looks at Lorryn with his mouth agape that the other gnome came up with that plan off the top of his head. He suggests he hide his vestments and holy symbol and that Lorryn’s plan is a good one that should work. Manolo looks at Gnubert and tells him off they go while he figures the less time the half-orcs have the less time they’ll have to prepare the table. Ash is good with the ruse and he’s easy to blend into the story as he won’t open his mouth and keeps to himself. He heads out with the rest. Hank comments on being very non-violent. Mortimer suggests he could be a lind merchant. Gnubert is amused by the party’s suggestions.
The party heads towards the Rusty Ear. Rather than the run down bar the party might have expected the place is fairly well maintained, with sturdy walls and clean floors. There are rusty old anchors, chains, etc. either hanging or sitting in various places and the lights are a bit on the dim side but that’s clearly part of the aesthetic.
They arrive a bit before the evening rush and are able to find places to sit, either as a group or separately as Loryn suggested. The barkeep and waiters greet the new customers warmly and they are quickly served. The bar has a large common room with many tables, but the back is sectioned off by a large window (perception 15 or engineering 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {the glass is leaded, likely to prevent divination through it}, alternatively Knowledge: Arcana 18 or Spellcraft 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { the tiny runes on the edges of the window are some kind of anti-divination ward} ). A table with neatly stacked poker chips on the other side indicates this is where the game takes place.
A sign next to the back section exclaims:
“Dirt City Hold ‘Em! Every night! Win riches or lose everything!
Rules: Standard ruleset Anything can be bet, but all gamblers must agree before the hand is played. All bets are final No outside help Magic is allowed”
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+17=22 ; d20+12=32 ; d20+14=19 ; Tuesday August 20th, 2024 10:53:19 PM Im not forgetting Hank. You got yourself an odd sense of when to talk and when not to. That's for certain." he winks back at the big man "I know Gnubert, not my best work, but we are pressed for time here." He throws another wink
Loryn arrives with Gnubert Ash and Hank separately from the others
Spellcraft 22 Perception 32
Loryn points out a table for his group and looks to send an Secret Message to Mortimer to take the nearby table Bluff 19 to send message covertly
Looking at the windows to the back, Loryn notes the leaded glass and glyphs and lets the others know. "Have to be in there to do or note anything with magic and so that is where a couple of us need to be. Also does not look like its hard to get in, pretty open game. I think Ash and Are are good candidates. Hank and Gnubert, maybe you watch for the outcome? You can of course join the game too.
Active Spell: Mage Armor +4AC 8 hours Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: Dancing Lights 1st lvl: 7/8 2nd lvl: 8/8 3rd lvl: 6/6 4th lvl: 4/4
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 d20+12=26 ; d20=5 ; Tuesday August 20th, 2024 11:04:10 PM
Manolo looks around, looking at Mortimer sometimes. Trying to be a guide and act as if he is a guide and business partner to Mortimer.
Perception 26 D20=5 ( if roll needed but not sure which ability is best or needed)
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 d20+13=15 ; Tuesday August 20th, 2024 11:39:08 PM
Hanks nods to Loryn's suggestion and watches the game outcomes.
Absently looking around the establishment between hands, he raises an eyebrow. "Hm, that glass over there is leaded. Typically lead glass is used for drinking vessels or decorative vases due to its clarity. It is pricy. The only reason to have an entire window of lead glass, indoors of all places, would be to block divinations."
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+7=23 ; Wednesday August 21st, 2024 12:02:15 AM
"And the tiny runes along the edge are also anti divination. " Ash adds. He nods to Loryn's suggestion about joining the game.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:70/57. false life, darkvision, heroism d20+14=19 ; Wednesday August 21st, 2024 11:36:00 AM "I remember there bein' a table over here, yea'," he mutters to Manolo. He blindly taps his walking stick on the floor lighty as he makes his way in the general direction of the table Loryn urged him to take. "Ahh, 'ere it is."
(Bluff: 19)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 d20+19=31 ; Wednesday August 21st, 2024 7:26:43 PM
Gnubert follows Loryn's lead and takes a seat, "I will watch for now. We definitely need a plan to win, or at the very least provoke them against us so we can defend ourselves as necessary."
Gnubert shakes his head, Have I spent too much time around Mortimer he wonders to himself.
Gnubert nods at Hank, agreeing with his assessment (Perception DC 31)
DM Hugh - Ready or Not, Player One d20+4=19 ; d20+13=21 ; d20+19=24 ; d20+13=19 ; Wednesday August 21st, 2024 10:42:45 PM Loryn responds to Hank, picks out a table, and directs the ‘blind’ pair to take a nearby table. He suggests who the best people to go in and gamble could be. Manolo and Mortimer continue the blind act and find a table. Hank notes the significance of the leaded glass Ash notes the magic runes. Gnubert follows Loryn’s lead and is ready to watch or get them to start the fight, wondering if he’s spent too much time around Mortimer.
The first player or rather victim of the night reveals themself. A catfolk decked out with all manner of gold and jewels approaches the back room. He reaches into a pouch and pulls out what has got to be one of the largest rubies you’ve ever seen.
“This is my ante. A flawless ruby of 25 carats valued at 200,000 gold pieces!” The bejeweled catfolk announces
The female half-orc who leads the group and must be Regina as identified by Ducet nods and the door is opened for the catfolk.
A seat is pulled out of the table and the ruby is exchanged for a neat pile of chips.
Regina says, “Now you offered us a gem valued at 200,000 gold pieces and we have a matching set of 4 exquisite platinum chalices depicting the four seasons created by a highly skilled artisan. Each chalice is a high value art object appraised to be worth 50,000 gold pieces. You have a stake of 200,000 gold worth of poker chips and each of my crew, myself included will have 50,000 gold worth of poker chips, meaning we are wagering equivalent sums if you count my crew as a unified team and yourself as a team. Do you agree to these terms.”
The catfolk nods
Regina says, “Then lets play some cards.”
The bejewled catfolk started as dealer.
The bejeweled catfolk doesn’t appear to be that good a poker player. He blew 50,000 gold worth of chips on the first hand which went to the river and all he came away with was a pair of twos. Regina, the mage who must be Saul and the bard who must be Baldrick all folded early leaving Fritz to go head to head against the catfolk.
Perception: 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { Fritz seems to be nothing more than a seasoned gambler. } Sense Motive: 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { Fritz is obviously the grizzled veteran of many a campaign and what do soldiers or fighters do when there is downtime? Gamble. He’s honed his skill with cards as a soldier of fortune who has seen some action at the card table and on the battle field }
On the second deal the catfolk ended up wagering two thirds of his remaining chips with both Regina and Fitz both playing to the river.
Regina won the hand with a straight flush, the catfolk had 3 nines and Fritz had a full house of Jacks over threes.
Perception: 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { Regina bottom dealt herself the winning hand using her impressive manual dexterity } The catfolk says, “I think I’d rather cut my losses. Can I convert my chips into gold pieces or one of your art pieces?”
Regina smiles and says, “Lets make this interesting. 1 more hand. Winner takes all. We all play and we all stay in to the river?”
The catfolk grows a spine and says, “Okay but someone else deals as I don’t trust your bottom dealing.”
Regina says, “You caught me. I guess I sit this one out.” Baldrick says, “I’ll deal.” Perception 19 Highlight to display spoiler: { He slipped the ace of spades up his sleeve. He’s not as good as Regina } The catfolk frowns and says to Baldrick, “Take that ace from out your sleeve. You’re done son.
Fritz, Saul and the Catfolk all stay in till the river.
Saul had 2 pair of jacks and fives The Catfolk had three sevens Fritz won again with a straight
Perception: 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { Fritz seems to be nothing more than a seasoned gambler.} Sense Motive: 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { Fritz is obviously the grizzled veteran of many a campaign and what do soldiers or fighters do when there is downtime? Gamble. He’s honed his skill with cards as a soldier of fortune who has seen some action at the card table and on the battle field } The catfolk says, “I know when I’m beat. It was a nice evening. I’ll be going now.”
Regina calls out to the house, “Whose next?”
What do you do?
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+7=21 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+7=11 ; Thursday August 22nd, 2024 12:36:45 AM
Ash didn't catch the bottom dealing the catfolk mentioned, but he did see ace go up the sleeve.
He looks around at the others, the 200k was too rich for his blood, but if they needed a body he'd go in.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Thursday August 22nd, 2024 12:59:07 AM "There is no way in the Nine Hells that was legitimate. They must be working together and lying through their teeth to attract high rollers. Even in a middling real estate market, a luxury villa is 15,000 gold pieces. For 200,000 gold pieces you can buy a +10 magic weapon! We are supposed to believe that someone lost it in a card game in a seedy tavern in Dirt City? And that a bunch of pirates have an equivalent amount of loot to ante for a card game? And that the catfolk wouldn't immediately call the guards when he saw cheating? AND that the catfolk was willing to play against multiple players at the same time, giving them an enormous likelihood of winning, with an identical ante? I am officially calling shenanigans."
(For reference, the average peasant makes 1 silver piece per day engaged in manual labor. Using the U.S. federal minimum wage as a standard, 1 silver piece equals $58. The catfolk just lost $116,000,000 in a single game of cards.)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 d20+19=28 ; d20+20=26 ; d20+19=21 ; d20+19=38 ; d20+19=24 ; d20+20=28 ; Thursday August 22nd, 2024 7:25:31 PM
Gnubert frowns slightly, How can this be legal he wonders to himself. Thegnome turns to Loryn and whispers, "There is nothing but cheating going on in there. I don't understand how the authorities are turning a blind eye. It appears our friend from the temple was right. She was cheated out of her boat and property."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 d20+12=26 ; d20+12=19 ; d20+12=14 ; d20+12=32 ; d20+12=14 ; d20+12=22 ; Thursday August 22nd, 2024 10:15:45 PM
Manolo scratches his head, dumbfounded by the idea that they are up to a game of cards with grandmasters of cheating. He looks at Morty, whispering to him, "Did you just see that?, they are real pros at cheating"
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Thursday August 22nd, 2024 11:14:23 PM
Hank laughs. "Oh, they're not just cheating at a game --- the game is a cheat. A ruse, a hoax, a con. Do you think they would care about one ship, when they just won enough money in a single game of cards to buy a whole fleet of ships? All of this is fake. They are trying so hard to attract high-stakes gamblers that they are using goofy made-up numbers in their clumsy attempt."
DM Hugh - The gambler Friday August 23rd, 2024 2:40:29 AM Ash caught some cheating but not others. The game seems to rich for his blood. Hank doesn’t think that round was legit, pointing out how absurd the numbers were, and thinks the whole thing is a con trying to ineptly attract high stakes gamblers. Gnubert wonders how the game can be legal with all the cheating happening. Manolo is a bit dumfounded at the idea. Hank points out the whole game is a cheat and their numbers got ridiculously out of proportion in their clumsy attempt.
With the excitement of the first game out of the way. The bar quiets down a little. Regina calls out to the crowd, “Don’t be intimidated by the stakes we just wagered. We can adapt to a variety of antes. In fact we have a wide variety of things we can wager from a restorative ointment we won off a healer, to a ship we won off of a salvage specialist to a warehouse we won from an importer/exporter…”
A rather rotund looking human with rusty brown hair approaches the backroom. “I’d like to wager this cloak of resistance +2 against your restorative ointment. It was my uncle’s. He was in the Mailed Fist you see.” as if to explain how he’d come by such a thing.
Regina frowns, clearly hoping someone would be interested in something more expensive, but ends up just shrugging. She says, “You’ll get 4000 gold worth of chips for your cloak. My crew will each get 1000 gold worth of chips as the ointment and cloak are worth the same amount of gold and we’ll play Dirt City Hold-em till either my crew or you run out of chips. Winner or Winners take all. Deal?” she asks.
The man says, “Aye.”
Meanwhile the enormity of what the catfolk just lost seems to have sunken in and he leaves in a huff saying, “I certainly won’t be darkening this establishment’s door anymore!” in an over loud tone
Sense Motive DC 11 Highlight to display spoiler: { Something seems off about the catfolk }
The crowd starts to part near the entrance a little in order to allow the catfolk to leave.
What do you do?
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:70/57. false life, darkvision, heroism d20+8=25 ; d20+6=11 ; d20+8=18 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+6=10 ; d20+6=25 ; d20+8=23 ; Friday August 23rd, 2024 7:07:01 AM (Multiple Perceptions and Sense Motives rolled.)
As soon as Mortimer hears the amounts these people are gambling with, he nearly falls out of his chair. They are were playing with a King's bounty. He is beginning to wonder if he joined the wrong gang. With that kind of coin, he wouldn't need to make good on his past ill deeds, he could simply pay the fine.
However as the evening progresses, he realizes the amounts of gold trading hands has clouded his judgement. Something about all this doesn't feel right. He feels like a rube for having fallen for it.
As he blankly stares out into the supposed darkness with his blind eyes, he tries to steal. a glimpse of the catfolk. Something isn't right about that cat. (Perception: 23)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Friday August 23rd, 2024 11:54:25 AM
"Wait.. I'm in. " Ash yells before he can think. " watch them, and tell me when and how they're cheating. " He whispers to the others.
Ooc: Did someone cast message? If not, can someone?
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 d20=20 ; Friday August 23rd, 2024 11:11:30 PM
Sense motive natural 20 Something set Manolo senses off. Something wasn't alright.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 d20+20=21 ; Sunday August 25th, 2024 6:24:54 PM
Gnubert still can't wrap his head around about what is happening. Gnubert shakes his head to Ash as to say no. Gnubert can tell there is something off about the catfolk but can't tell what it is. "Are they drawing marks in by playing against themselves?" Gnubert asks the others quietly. "There is no way they are playing this type of game down here with teh winnings they are making."
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Sunday August 25th, 2024 11:01:15 PM "Even if their stakes are legitimate -- which I do not believe in the slightest -- they still expect you to win against a team of players. I have seen bottom-barrel carnival games less rigged. I say we leave." Hanks stands up to go outside.
DM Hugh - Know when to hold-em... d20+15=30 ; Sunday August 25th, 2024 11:23:46 PM Mortimer feels like he joined the wrong gang for a moment before he thinks things through. He watches the catfolk closely. Ash attempts to jump into a game before he can think. Manolo is sure something is off here. Gnubert wonders if they’re playing against themselves to bait marks in.
As Mortimer looks out the door into the darkness after the departing Catfolk he quickly loses sight of him. The Catfolk was obviously trained in the ways of stealth and his small size didn’t help anything either.
Regina looks at Ash, winks and says, “Wait your turn, honey. My crew agreed to a game with this gentleman here, so you’ll have to volunteer some other time. That is if you have something worth wagering. Maybe you want to take some time to think about it?”
The game against the rotund man who wagered the cloak of resistance+2 passes rather quickly with the half-orcs ending up owners of the cloak when everything is said and done. Another person comes forward to wager against the Half-Orcs after the rotund man lost his uncle’s cloak. This time it is a barrel chested Dwarf with a bushy red beard and the Dwarf wagers his mithril chain shirt against a pearl owned by the Half-Orcs. The Half-Orcs ending up expanding their wardrobe by acquiring the chainshirt to go with their cloak. The next round it is a half-elf wagering boots of elvenkind against the half-orcs’ goggles of minute seeing and needless to say the Half-Orcs end up with a pair a boots to go with their cloak and shirt. As with the game with the catfolk at times the Half-Orcs have to sit out a hand. Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { It would appear that one of the rules of this Dirt City variant of Hold-em is that if you are caught cheating you have to fold either the round you were caught in or the next round catcher’s choice.}
What do you do now?
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Monday August 26th, 2024 1:56:49 AM "They staged a high-roller to get everyone hungry, and now they have fleeced three gamblers in a row. I say we leave."
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday August 26th, 2024 10:21:16 AM
So sorry all. Back and will go with Loryn not being in the current game and will contribute from the side
Active Spell: Mage Armor +4AC 8 hours Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: Dancing Lights 1st lvl: 7/8 2nd lvl: 8/8 3rd lvl: 6/6 4th lvl: 4/4
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday August 26th, 2024 10:34:35 AM
Loryn grimaces a few times at what is going on and nods at Hanks assessments. "I think we all understand the game here but let's see if the odds can be steadied by having 3 of us join the same game. Ash just stepped in,
The gnome casts Message and covers all in the group. He then casts Read Magic and Detect Magic[/i] and whispers to Mortimer,
"Let's join Ash in this round. We each put up 3k means they each put up 9k. No appraising shannanigans, straight coin."
The gnome, assuming no one stopped him from his spell casting. "Ill join this round as well." he steps forward and produces a pouch of 3,000 gold from the recent selling
Active Spell: Mage Armor +4AC 8 hours Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: Dancing Lights 1st lvl: 7/8 2nd lvl: 8/8 3rd lvl: 6/6 4th lvl: 4/4
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Monday August 26th, 2024 6:46:21 PM
Ash moves closer to the table, waiting for his turn. He likes the idea of the three of them playing, be easier to catch them cheating and make them sit out hands.
"If they bet big and get caught cheating, force them out to forfeit there hands."
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 d20+19=24 ; d20+19=23 ; d20+20=40 ; Monday August 26th, 2024 7:30:07 PM
Gnubert catches the rules of the game (Perception DC 24), and nods at Loryn's suggestion. "I will watch from teh sidelines, and try an dlet you know what is going on." Gnubert moves to get the best view he can and watches for signs of cheating, (Perception DC 23, Sense Motive DC 40, nat 20! first in a long time!)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 d20=2 ; d100=71 ; Monday August 26th, 2024 7:52:33 PM
Manolo joins as well. ( If he has the money) Perception d20=2
DM Hugh - Know when to fold-em... Monday August 26th, 2024 10:07:09 PM Hank wants to leave. Loryn thinks 3 should join and that he has a grasp on the rules. Ash moves closer and likes the odds with 3 of them joining. Gnubert catches on to what’s going on. He says he’ll watch from the sidelines. Manolo joins the game and has his eyes peeled for cheating.
Int check DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { One of the rules is no outside help. That likely means if you are not in the game you can’t help catch cheating so if Gnubert wants to use his big roll he has to join in. Or secretly pass the message, as if he’s caught providing outside help his teammates will have to fold a round.}
Regina considers the group of 3 humans and a gnome who just stepped up to play. When she sees Manolo she says, “We could play coin against coin as you suggest, but I believe a little birdie told me [i]you[i], she says pointing at Manolo, were in here the other day asking after a ship. Isn’t that what you’re really after? I’ll tell you what you can wager your 3000 gold pieces a piece and we’ll put up our recently acquired modified sailing ship. Does that sound like a deal? To make it even more interesting, about 1 round, we all go all in and the winner takes all, with the normal Dirt City rules dictating forced folding of course. That is unless you are too scared to play against us.”
Do you accept Regina’s Terms?
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Monday August 26th, 2024 11:37:27 PM
Hank shrugs, then takes a seat. "I can always just thump their skulls if you need me to. Go ahead, good luck."
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+3=22 ; d20+14=17 ; Tuesday August 27th, 2024 8:35:05 AM
Loryn whispers to Gnubert, You have to play to help, you get caught, we get booted.
Loryn looks at Regina with a curious expression on his face, "If you want to play them for some ship, I have no issue with that, but my friend and I are here to play for some coin." indicating Ash
"This" gesturing between Manolo and Regina, [/b]"Feels personal, So we'll sit out and take the next game."[/b] Bluff 17...a '3'..sigh
Active Spell: Mage Armor +4AC 8 hours Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: Dancing Lights 1st lvl: 7/8 2nd lvl: 8/8 3rd lvl: 6/6 4th lvl: 4/4
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:57/57. heroism d20=11 ; d20+8=20 ; Tuesday August 27th, 2024 7:41:56 PM
(Int check: 11. Perception: 20, from the previous day.)
(ooc: FYI - I'm not a gambler. I don't gamble or play gambling card games, especially for money. I know little to anything about gambling. It's why I have zero desire to go to Vegas, except for the buffets. I think the only card games I know are Uno and Solitaire. Don't believe I would be much help here.)
Mortimer sits back and watches over his friends. If things go sideways, he'll do his best to come to the rescue. He continues the blind act and has another sip of his ale.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 d20+2=19 ; Tuesday August 27th, 2024 9:02:36 PM
Gnubert looks at Loryn, "I can play but with the party treasure. I have no funds of my own. Next round with you two then." he whispers.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 d20=17 ; Tuesday August 27th, 2024 10:24:10 PM
Ooc: I am not sure I have the amount of gold coins required?
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 d20=3 ; d3=3 ; Tuesday August 27th, 2024 10:55:37 PM
Manolo takes a coin and throws it. But before that. He says his thoughts, " Oh Wardd, I am giving it all, give me a sign , help me do some good in this world 'Heads I Go forward'-1 'Tails I don't gamble'-2 He looks at it, it was quite peculiar situation. " Not heads nor tails, interesting, I guess no luck is involved playing against you", ' I am going to lose ', Manolo thinks. " I challenge you Regina ", he exclaims loudly. D3=3 ( didn't have d2 so decided to go with d3) Ooc: I am not sure Manolo has enough money but I am going with the flow. Ooc2: I don't know any poker either, but why not try.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Tuesday August 27th, 2024 11:13:28 PM
Hank watches skeptically. Very skeptically. He squints his eyes in skeptical skepticism.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Tuesday August 27th, 2024 11:56:24 PM
"Whatever floats your boat" Ash starts... "just make sure you make the cheating a minimal. "
DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Wednesday August 28th, 2024 8:17:40 AM Hank shrugs takes a seat and reflects he can just thumps skulls if it comes to it. Loryn whispers to Gnubert that he has to play to help otherwise if the gnome got caught the players would get booted. He then looks at Regina with a curious expression on his face and says if you want to play them for some ship he has no problem but he came to play for coin with Ash. He tells Regina the thing with Manolo feels personal and he and Ash will sit out and take the next game. Mortimer sits back and watches over his friends. If things go sideways he’ll have their back but continues the blind act for now. Gnubert says he can play but with party treasure and he’ll aim for the next round with Ash and Loryn Manolo isn’t sure if he should go with this and flips a coin with a prayer to Ward. He gets unexpected results. Hank watches everything skeptically. Ash says whatever floats their boat.
Regina looks from Ash to Loryn to Manolo and says, “I’m sorry but I was under the impression that the three of you were together. That is are you not members of the adventuring company that arrived by ship yesterday? But then again I could be wrong about these things and you could just be a group of 2 and a group of 1 unrelated. If that is the case though that group of 1 would have to put up a significantly higher wager than 3000 gp against the ship.”
It seems they have at least heard of the party arriving in town. Likely they keep track of everyone showing up who might be good marks - maybe the absurd bets were meant to draw in rich adventurers!
The party just sold their treasure for 35,000g so should be flush with cash (going to comment in e-mail)
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday August 28th, 2024 3:47:10 PM
Loryn keeps his smile up, unsure if Regina saw through his bluff or not. He was a gnome arriving by ship to a city full of gnomes. He also couldn't quickly think his way to a new spot from where he was. Inspiration.
Loryn gives Ash a a nod and a smile as he nubs his nose, "I don't know about all that, but I think a ship could be a benefit. So I'll tell you what. My Friend Ash and I will join your game, stakes are fine, but just run to River? That removes all skill and so no. That will not do. I propose 2k buy in against your ship to the Flop. The Turn and River are bet as normal
Whispering under his breath to the group We are going to need to possibly touch the entire 35k during the Turn and River here. All in gang?
Active Spell: Mage Armor +4AC 8 hours; Detect Magic, Message, Read Magic Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: Dancing Lights 1st lvl: 7/8 2nd lvl: 8/8 3rd lvl: 6/6 4th lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 d20+19=27 ; d20+20=22 ; Wednesday August 28th, 2024 7:06:03 PM
Gnubert whispers via the message spell, "I will go with your guidance. Do what you think best. I believe in your wisdom." Gnubert watches from the outside (Perception DC 27, Sense Motive DC 22)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Wednesday August 28th, 2024 7:45:54 PM
Ash nods to Loryn to assure he's in with the plan. "Money comes and Goes.. Im good with whatever my friend is good with. " He says, turning to Regina with a smile.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 d20=8 ; Wednesday August 28th, 2024 8:09:46 PM
"Wardd is not on your side today", Manolo says in an attempt to bluff and fake confidence. Bluff 16
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Wednesday August 28th, 2024 10:57:13 PM
Hank orders a mead and watches the proceedings.
DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Thursday August 29th, 2024 7:43:15 AM Loryn tries to haggle, offering a start of 2k and talking about turns and rivers Gnubert tells the others he’ll follow their lead via message. Ash nods and is ready to go in. Manolo tries to fake confidence. Hank orders a meal and settles in to watch.
The pirates frown at Loryn’s proposal and offer a counter offer. After some haggling everyone eventually settles on a wager and ruleset everyone is happy with. The ship will be used as the pirates collateral, valued at 12k that the party must meet or exceed to win it (you could win extra cash here, wooo).
Once everything is agreed on the players go sit down to start the game (From our count Loryn, Ash, and Manolo are playing). As the game warms up everyone has to decide how they are playing (describe your general approach to the game. Are you a cautious or reckless gambler? Do you try to cheat? We have a full write up of how we’re going to run the game in the post is up email, please read it and make any relevant skill checks for the Deal phase)
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+14=15 ; d20+14=34 ; d20+12=27 ; Thursday August 29th, 2024 10:05:17 AM
Loryn nods his agreement after a bit if back and forth to set up the game where he feels at least the odds are more even. It is still 3 hands to 4, but if it were easy everyone would do it and where would the fun be in that. The deal would be fairly important, but the Flop of the next 3 cards is what truly made or broke hands and that is where he would really be watching the dealer and the reactions of the other players.
During the deal, he would set his poker his and start using his currently active Detect Magic spell to see what the other players might already be doing. Know Arcana to ID spell 15 nat 1 fantastic Bluff hide feelings and such 34 Perception to read others as they look at their hands and watch the deal 27
Active Spell: Mage Armor +4AC 8 hours; Detect Magic, Message, Read Magic Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: Dancing Lights 1st lvl: 7/8 2nd lvl: 8/8 3rd lvl: 6/6 4th lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 d20+19=23 ; d20+20=33 ; Thursday August 29th, 2024 7:09:25 PM
Gnubert watches the game and attempts to learn its flow (Perception DC 23, Sense Motive DC 33) and how the opponents might be cheating.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+4=21 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+16=19 ; d20+16=32 ; Thursday August 29th, 2024 8:34:52 PM
Ash plays very defensively, trying to use his intellectual to figure out percentages for certain cards. He also scans the other non party members for cheating.
Sense motive 21 Perception 18 Knowledge arcane 19 Spellcraft 32
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Thursday August 29th, 2024 11:52:35 PM *gulp, gulp* Hank watches intently.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 d20=7 ; d20=10 ; Friday August 30th, 2024 12:02:38 AM
Manolo tries to bluff about his hand and will keep watching out for any possible cheating. Bluff 15 Perception 22
DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Friday August 30th, 2024 8:17:05 AM Loryn likes the set up they were eventually able to get and reflects on their odds. He looks about with his detect magic. Gnubert watches from outside the game. Ash plays defensively, hoping to use his knowledge and intellect to carry the day. Hank watches the game intently Manolo tries to bluff about the strength or lack thereof of his hand
The game quickly heats up. The orcs play a lot and it shows, cards and bets flying fast and frequent. Each soon starts to show a unique style, and if any are cheating now would be the time to catch them. Franz is a methodical poker player. He goes about the game with a workman-like sense of focus. Baldrick wagers aggressively. He appears confident in the strength of his hand and enjoys trash talking. Saul seems to come from the don’t play the cards, play the opponent school of poker players and appears uncannily insightful.
Ash, Manolo and Loryn please roll DC 16 Will Saves
Regina seems to be knocked off her game a little by all the haggling the party did leading up to the game. When she deals the cards the moves she makes aren’t as fancy as they were in the previous games
Outside the game
A gnome in a rather nondescript outfit has just walked into the bar. Sense Motive 16 Highlight to display spoiler: { Something about this gnome seems suspicious } Perception 36 Highlight to display spoiler: { That’s no gnome! That is the same catfolk from earlier disguised as a gnome. What is he up to?}
A canine beastfolk in a well worn traveler’s outfit has entered the bar Sense Motive 25: Highlight to display spoiler: { This guy is very cautious. Almost overly so. He takes a seat facing the entrance Highlight to display spoiler: {} Perception: 34 Highlight to display spoiler: {} He appears to have a vial of something hidden on his person }
A halfling in cleric vestments of Ffloy has entered the bar Sense Motive 15 : Highlight to display spoiler: {This halfling is a cleric of Ffloy appearing to be engaged in business} Sense Motive 20: Highlight to display spoiler: {He appears to be looking for someone}
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+7=24 ; d20+14=23 ; d20+14=28 ; d20+7=8 ; d20=7 ; Friday August 30th, 2024 8:47:53 AM Will Save 24 Loryn spends another round scanning his opponents with his active Detect Magic as he glances down at his hold cards and starts calculating out his chances of pulling a winning hand. The group has one thing on their side and that is the ability to tell each other what they have down and than limits what the other could have. Detect Magic reading any auras 23 vs 15+ spell level
Loryn lets slip a quick breath of excitement as the next set of cards are revealed and like slow bets after the catching the eye of a couple of his opponents. He's got a great hand and he's trying to hold down his excitement to keep the others from folding Bluff 28
The gnome is absorbed in the game and notices little else. Perception 8 Sense Motive 7
Active Spell: Mage Armor +4AC 8 hours; Detect Magic, Message, Read Magic Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: Dancing Lights 1st lvl: 7/8 2nd lvl: 8/8 3rd lvl: 6/6 4th lvl: 4/4
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+10=25 ; d20+7=8 ; d20+4=14 ; Friday August 30th, 2024 11:15:44 AM
Ash is pretty sturdy vs whatever magic effected them(save 25). He's too entrenched in the game to notice anything going on around him. He continued watching fot any spell activity.
Using rolls from last round at the table: Knowledge arcane 19 Spellcraft 32
Perception 8 Sense Motive 14 Will Save 25
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 d20+20=40 ; d20+19=31 ; d20+20=31 ; d20+20=39 ; d20+20=35 ; d20+19=35 ; d20+20=36 ; Sunday September 1st, 2024 7:52:02 PM
Gnubert feels as though something is off about the gnome (Sense Motive DC 40) but can't quite place it (Perception DC 31). The canine beastfolk definitely catches his eye (Sense Motive DC 31) and turns to keep a slightly better eye on him when the Priest of Ffloy walks in (Sense Motive DC 39 & 35).
Gnubert fakes a yawn, and covers his mouth where he whispers though the message spell, "Something is afoot out here. I don't know what it is but, and this will sound like a joke but a gnome, canine beastfolk, and a Priest of Ffloy walk into a bar..."
Gnubert glances at the table trying to discern the cheating from the orcs (Perception DC 35, and Sense Motive DC 35)
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 d20+1=8 ; d20+1=9 ; Sunday September 1st, 2024 11:18:20 PM
Perception 8 Sense Motive 9
Hank is distracted by the various graffiti carved into the table.
DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Monday September 2nd, 2024 10:46:44 AM Loryn watches the other gamblers carefully and tries to hide his excitement as he gets a good hand. Ash is so focused on the game he notices nothing else, but also keeps whatever that will save was out as well. Gnubert notices some things are off. He mutters about a joke trusting his magic to send the message to the others. (Message requires you to point to whom you’re sending it to. It is also blocked by a thin amount of lead, like in the windows, so it won’t work if he’s trying to talk to those in the game) Hank is watching the game but then gets distracted by something someone wrote on the table. Who is Red and why did it matter he was here?
=====At the game table Loryn is able to tell that Saul has a faint aura of divination about him and Baldrick has a faint aura of transmutation about him
Ash thinks it looks like Saul has cast detect thoughts and Baldrick has cast glibness both spells are considered cheating in this game. He can use this information to force the two to fold.
Baldrick looks carefully at Manolo, Loryn and Ash. He says to Manolo “I think you are bluffing, (Sense Motive 26 vs Manolo’s 15) which isn’t cheating but still your hand is no good right?”
Regina, Saul and Franz don’t really appear to be skilled in areas involving detecting cheating or bluffing considering that really wasn’t their strategy. They don’t offer anything to the conversation that Baldrick started with Manolo.
=======Outside the game table The cleric locks eyes with the canine beastfolk, nods, then sidles up to the bar.
The canine beastfolk takes a seat at a small table near the bar but with his back facing the cleric.
The gnome moves throughout the crowd, he’s about 30 feet from where you are seated. Perception 34 Highlight to display spoiler: { It looks like the gnome pickpocketed something off one of the bar patrons }
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 d20+19=38 ; Monday September 2nd, 2024 7:06:00 PM
Gnubert doesn't realize his message failed to go through as he notices the gnome lift something from one of the patrons (Perception DC 38). Gnubert stands and makes his way towards the gnome, and whispers to them in Gnomish "You should put that back! It doesn't belong to you!"
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 d20=16 ; d20+12=16 ; d20+12=25 ; Monday September 2nd, 2024 9:29:44 PM
Manolo tries to cheat in the game but he focuses a little bit more on the others to see if they are cheating.
Ooc: sorry folks, bad roll for sleight of hand, didn't want to cheat with dice roller, sorry if being caught. Will save 22 Sleight of hand 16 Perception 25
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Monday September 2nd, 2024 11:02:52 PM
Hank smiles at the carving, then looks over at the ongoing game. Then he specifically looks at the orcs' shoes for any signs of cheating. Because, after all, how often do you look at a man's shoes?
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 1:31:35 AM
Ash smiles.. loving the fact his intelligence is once again helping. Smiling to Saul "you've cast detect thoughts, thats cheating and Baldrick has cast glibness. That's also cheating. You're both out. "
DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 8:10:51 AM Gnubert doesn’t realize his message failed to go through but notices the gnome lift something from one of the patrons. He makes his way towards the gnome and tells him he should put that back as it doesn’t belong to him. Manolo is ready to cheat should another hand be dealt but focuses on the others to see if they are cheating. Hank smiles at the carving then looks over at the ongoing game and then looks at the orc shoes for signs of cheating. Ash calls out Saul and Baldrick knocking them out of the hand.
At the card game At being called out by Ash the two pirates grumble but fold good naturedly. Regina tries to take the distraction to slip a card from her sleeve, but Manolo catches her in the act eliminating her as well. Perhaps emboldened, Manolo tries to cheat himself but is instantly called out by the sharp-eyed Franz, leaving three players still standing at the turn are Loryn, Franz and Ash.
Before gameplay narrowed down to 3 players wagers had been pretty large so that the pot included Ducet’s ship and then some gold on top of it.
Loryn nearly raised all of the party’s remaining 35,000 gold and Baldrick being the only remaining member of Regina’s crew not to get caught felt that wager was too rich for his blood so he folds, earning the party the ship back.
If you cash out now you can get Ducet’s ship and maybe a thousand extra gold a piece for your trouble. On the other hand Regina’s crew still has more chips, and per the rules everyone is dealt back in. Dare the party risk it all for more riches?
Outside the card game The gnome having been caught says to the patron he lifted the coin purse from, “Buddy, I think you dropped this. You really need to be more careful of your belongings, especially in crowded rooms like this one.”
Seeing as how Gnubert had caught his pickpocketing attempt the other gnome moves toward the door.
The canine beast folk and the cleric bump into each other. (Perception: 38) the beastfolk slipped something into the cleric’s pocket. The cleric says to the beastfolk, “You’ve dropped this.” as he hands canine beast folk an overfull bag of coin.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 9:37:14 AM
" Cash out now" Ash whispers to Loryn. " we got what we came for. "
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 2:01:35 PM
Loryn nods to Franz as he folds and congratulates him on playing a good game. Agreeing with Ash, Loryn cashes out. They did have what they had come for and he was no professional. "where do we square up with the ship then?" he asks Franz
Active Spell: Mage Armor +4AC 8 hours; Detect Magic, Message, Read Magic Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: Dancing Lights 1st lvl: 7/8 2nd lvl: 8/8 3rd lvl: 6/6 4th lvl: 4/4
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:57/57. heroism d20+14=31 ; Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 5:40:21 PM
(Sorry for not posting. Work has been crazy and I mentally shutdown over the Labor Day weekend.)
Mortimer continues to enjoy his ale as he passively keeps track of his friend's card game. Or was he, because he suddenly wakes up realizing he had been dreaming of a card game very similar to this one. How embarrassing. He does his best to hide his mortification.
(Bluff: 31)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 d20+19=34 ; d20+19=23 ; d20+20=34 ; Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 9:01:22 PM
Gnubert watches the gnome return the pouch, and leave but doesn't see anything out of place (PerceptionDC34). The cleric turns back to the game and focus his attention there (Perception DC 23, Sense Motive DC 34)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 d20+12=27 ; Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 10:46:21 PM
Manolo is happy that they won but looks out for any possible surprises against the party. Perception 27
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 11:35:13 PM "Hey-hey! You proved me wrong. Let's keep it that way. We should pack up and head out."
DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Wednesday September 4th, 2024 8:07:30 AM Ash whispers to Loryn that they should cash out now. Loryn nods to Franz as he folds and congratulates him on playing a good game. He asks the veteran fighter where they square up with the ship. Mortimer continues to enjoy his ale as he passively keeps track of his friend’s card game. He wakes up realizing he has been dreaming of a similar card game and does his best to hide his mortification. Gnubert watches the gnome return the pouch and leave but doesn’t see anything out of place. He then turns his attention back to the game and focuses his attention there. Manolo is happy they won but keeps a lookout for any possible surprises against the party. Hank suggests they pick up and head out
Franz says to Loryn, “You’ll have to ask Regina as she’s the boss. I’m just the muscle and a decent honest card player.”
Regina says, “If you gentlemen will excuse me for a moment while my compatriots discuss something.”
The four half-orcs whisper amongst themselves for a while before Regina steps forwards and gives Loryn the papers ceding ownership of Ducet’s ship to the party. She also hands over a pouch containing the additional gold the party won.
As if addressing the crowd outside as much as the party, “Let us not be said that we are not magnanimous in losing and that we do not honor our debts. Even though this is the first game we lost, anyone can win!”
To Loryn, Ash and Manolo specifically she says, “Come back anytime if you feel like pressing your luck again though you might find the outcome quite different.”
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday September 4th, 2024 10:49:31 AM
Loryn nods to Regina and takes the ownership papers. He folds them twice and stuffs them deeply into a pocket of his trousers. Loryn puts his arm in far further than possible and than when drawing his hand from the same pocket, he pulls an entire full wineskin. He puts the newly acquired bag of gold deep into another pocket as well as his own gold and then after taking a drink, he returns the wineskin to the first extradimensional space.
Loryn exits the gaming side of the area to return to the others, "I think now is a fine time to head back to our own place."
Once in their own rooms, Loryn conveys that he would no be surprised if the group was visited this evening and so we should set up our standard watch.
Active Spell: Mage Armor +4AC 8 hours; Detect Magic, Message, Read Magic Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: Dancing Lights 1st lvl: 7/8 2nd lvl: 8/8 3rd lvl: 6/6 4th lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 d20+19=33 ; Wednesday September 4th, 2024 7:49:43 PM
Gnubert follows the others to the inn keeping eye out for signs of danger (Perception DC 33)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Wednesday September 4th, 2024 11:43:03 PM
Ash pats Loryn on the back, as he follows the man out of the bar.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Wednesday September 4th, 2024 11:52:41 PM "Woah! Hold on there. If I were an unscrupulous pirate captain -- which I am not -- but if I were, I would steal our new ship this very evening, give it a paint job, and register it with a new title in the morning. I think we should go straight to the ship and secure it so that nothing sneaky happens during the night."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:57/57. heroism Thursday September 5th, 2024 4:32:15 AM
Mortimer remains in character but privately feels pride for the other's accomplishment.
DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Thursday September 5th, 2024 8:22:43 AM Loryn nods to Regina and takes the ownership papers and gold and secures them on his person. He suggests to the others that now is a fine time to head back to their place. Gnubert prepares to keep an eye out should they head back to the inn. Ash pats Loryn on the back as he follows Gnubert out Hank suggests they take ownership of the ship first and secure it against would be sneak thieves in the night. Mortimer stays in character but is proud of the party.
The party heads out. Hank raises a point, possibly diverting the party. They could go to the ship and claim it, or just watch it potentially. At least for the moment there is no sign of danger that Gnubert can detect, so they likely won’t be mugged for the documents while walking through town.
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday September 5th, 2024 9:41:53 AM
Loryn stops short and looks up at Hank. "You know, that is a mighty good thought there Hank. Let's do that. To the ship!"
Loryn wheels about and heads to the docks and what is technically the Argentium's new ship, though he has little intent on keeping the vessel. Arriving at the vessel, Loryn suggests the group give her a look over and get familiar with the layout and as before, tonight will have watches and the gang plank will be drawn up. She is still moored, of course, but if anyone wants on this evening, they are not going to simply be able to walk up.
Loryn will refresh his Mage Armor spell at sunset
Active Spell: Mage Armor +4AC 8 hours; Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: Dancing Lights 1st lvl: 7/8 2nd lvl: 8/8 3rd lvl: 6/6 4th lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 Thursday September 5th, 2024 6:14:42 PM
Gnubert nods in agreement as they pivot and head for the ship. Once they arrive the cleric turns to the others, "Definitely watches, and sleeping on deck doesn't seem like a bad idea."
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Thursday September 5th, 2024 9:49:48 PM "Noice. Let's head to the ship!" Hank is ready to go.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 d20+12=17 ; Thursday September 5th, 2024 10:03:11 PM
Manolo tries to look out for any signs that something is strange going on or happening. " I feel like we won relatively easy" "Perhaps we got lucky" He says
Perception 17
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Thursday September 5th, 2024 11:17:44 PM
Ash's family ran a shipping business.. but Ash didn't know the first thing about boats . He hoped one of the others did.
Drack Friday September 6th, 2024 10:11:40 AM
(I think Drack has been updated Mitch and Hugh. Let me know)
DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Friday September 6th, 2024 10:59:26 AM Loryn stops short and agrees with Hank that they should head to the ship. Arriving at the ship he suggests the Argentium give it a look over as tonight will have watches and the gangplank drawn up. If anyone wants on they are not simply going to be able to walk up. Gnubert nods in agreement as they pivot towards the ship and once they arrive he agrees with watches and sleeping on deck. Hank is glad to head towards the ship Manolo tries to look out for any sign that something strange is going on or happening. He feels like they got lucky Ash reflects on how his family ran a shipping business but he doesn’t know much about ships. Drack is ready to return (but we need a sheet link)
When the party gets to the ship they find the gangplank already raised and someone else on watch.
The crewman on watch says to the Argentium, “Halt who goes there?”
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PEwCn4Ab_xuODPQPsOql0ivp4dBgDuR2VUneAgsI2eQ/mobilebasic# Friday September 6th, 2024 2:19:16 PM
(Thanks. Next time I am on my my laptop I will try and set up header.)
AC 20 HP 84 Drak ; Chris J Friday September 6th, 2024 2:19:49 PM
(Thanks. Next time I am on my my laptop I will try and set up header.)
hopefully helps out dk
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday September 6th, 2024 4:30:49 PM
Loryn reaches into his pocket and produces the writ of ownership and holds it aloft, "My good man, I am Loryn Glitterfall. Rightful owner of this fine vessel. Do be so good as to put out the entry bridge thing so that i and my comrades can board or that you can more closely verify this writ"
Active Spell: Mage Armor +4AC 8 hours; Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: Dancing Lights 1st lvl: 7/8 2nd lvl: 8/8 3rd lvl: 6/6 4th lvl: 4/4
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 Friday September 6th, 2024 9:16:04 PM
Manolo looks at the guard at disbelief but says nothing... 'We could have the ship for ourselves without playing this dangerous gambling our money game', Manolo thinks.
AC 20 HP 84 Drack ; Chris J Sunday September 8th, 2024 2:44:37 PM
header test. Think it is good
AC 20 HP 84 Drack ; Chris J Sunday September 8th, 2024 2:45:02 PM
(Thanks Dan)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 d20+19=36 ; Sunday September 8th, 2024 7:55:09 PM
Gnubert stands with Loryn and keeps an eye out for danger (Perception DC 36)
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Monday September 9th, 2024 1:20:54 AM "I know, right? Let's hope they hired one of the rare and elusive semi-intelligent guards."
DM Hugh - Know when to fold-em... d20+12=22 ; d20+11=26 ; d4=3 ; d20+35=37 ; d20+16=32 ; d20+19=24 ; d20+30=36 ; d20+14=16 ; d20+16=25 ; d20+19=34 ; d20+15=26 ; d20+9=28 ; d20+20=31 ; d20+20=38 ; Monday September 9th, 2024 1:51:24 AM Loryn reaches into his pocket and produces the writ of ownership and explains he’s the owner and that they should lower the entry bridge so the party can come aboard and the writ can be verified. Manolo thinks they could’ve had the ship without gambling their money. Gnubert stands with Loryn and keeps an eye out for danger Hank says he hopes they hired a semi-intelligent guard
The crewman on watch says, “I need to get the captain.” The crewman on watch returns with the captain. The captain appears to be an older half-elf gentleman who carries himself with composure and the captain says “I heard you are alleged to be the new owners of the ship, I have a contract with the old owners to command it. I’m willing to stay on for a reasonable fee should your papers prove legitimate and I give you permission to come aboard to discuss in my cabin though I apologize that the quarters are a little cramped.” The crewman on watch lowers the gangway and beckons for the party to come aboard.
As all this is going on you look to your side and see a familiar face. One minute he wasn’t there and the next he was. Drack rejoins the party.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:57/57. heroism Monday September 9th, 2024 8:36:30 AM
Mortimer continues his act of blind tavern patron and gets up and leave after finishing his drink. He leaves the typical tip for the serving wench, then with walking stick in hand, he gently taps his way out the door. He later rejoins his mates on the ship. He looks around with a bit of awe. "All this with a hand of cards?!"
He then turns to be greeted with a familiar face, "Oy ... Drack! Back from your divine intervention, you are!"
AC 20 HP 84 Drack ; Chris J Monday September 9th, 2024 10:03:48 AM
Drack looks about, and sees his friends. It has been a bit. "Greetings Mortimer. Apparently that i am no longer needed elsewhere, i am needed here. I am glad to see you all again. What trouble have you gotten us into now?" He says with a grin. "Hopefully there is some evil to destroy? And by the way, what's with the ship? You all know my feelings about water..."
Lay hands 11/11 spells: 1st: Divine Favor, bless, prot. from evil 2nd: Bulls strength, shield other
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday September 9th, 2024 1:36:27 PM
Loryn beams a smile at his big friend, "You're feelings for the water is precisely why we sought this particular commission out. Behold! Argentium's Business On Aquatic Terrain vehicle. Now as to evil to dispose of, well not quite yet. This here is to properly bring us to a recovery sight.
Still following the thing for the folks to stop the others from doing stuff and all that."
Loryn heads aboard and gives a good natured wave to the crew and captain and turns to follow to the aforementioned cabin for a meeting. With the Captains Permission, Loryn will cast Message to all of the party and that way everyone can participate without necessarily having to cram into the captains cabin. As the caster, Loryn then heads into the cabin with the writ to set everything right.
Active Spell: Mage Armor +4AC 8 hours; Message Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: Dancing Lights 1st lvl: 7/8 2nd lvl: 8/8 3rd lvl: 6/6 4th lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 d20+19=30 ; Monday September 9th, 2024 6:58:16 PM
Gnubert does a double take, and then smiles broadly as Drack appears on the dock with the party. Gnubert lets Loryn and whomever else wants to cram into teh cabin while he keep watch outside. (Perception DC 30)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 33/51 Monday September 9th, 2024 7:57:12 PM
Manolo looks at Drack happily, " nice to see you back, I hope you got stronger from when I last saw you". He hugs him and then replies to Drack's question, "currently we are fighting evil to prevent evil but with an added bonus of having to race other people to hopefully prevent it".
To Drack's other question he simply replies cheerfully, "just playing lost and found in the sea",
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Monday September 9th, 2024 11:42:40 PM "Drack! You old so-and-so. Welcome back. We are currently chasing a rare artifact at the bottom of the ocean. Which is a typical place for a lost artifact, as opposed to an abandoned storage unit or something." He leans in close and whispers. "We just won a ship, and we need to evict all of this current crew. I wouldn't trust anyone hired by pirates."
DM Mitch and Hugh Vampire Ogres! Tuesday September 10th, 2024 7:53:08 AM Mortimer continues his act of blind tavern patron as they leave the bar. As he later rejoins his mates at the ship he remarks, “All this with a hand of cards?” in awe only to be surprised again by Drack who he greets. Drack looks about and sees his friends as it has been a bit. He explains he is no longer needed elsewhere but instead is needed here. He asks about the ship considering his feelings about water Loryn says that Drack’s feelings on the water are why they sought out this commision. He explains it is to properly bring them to a recovery site as they are still following the thing for folks to stop other folks and all that stuff. Loryn asks the captain to cast message then he follows the captain into the quarters to set things right with the writ. Gnubert does a double take then smiles broadly as Drack appears on dock with the party. Gnubert keeps watch outside. Manolo looks at Drack happily and says it is nice to see him again and he hopes he’s gotten stronger. He explains they are fighting evil to prevent evil but with an added bonus of having to race other people to prevent it and that they are playing lost and found at sea. Hank is also happy to see Drack and explains they are chasing a rare artifact at the bottom of the ocean and then whispers that they won the ship but need to evict the current crew as he doesn’t trust anyone hired by pirates
The captain grants Loryn’s request for the Message spell and still says, “Even with just you and me, things are going to be a little cramped. You see this cabin was built for a gnome minimalist at least when it came to space for quarters”
True to the half-elf’s words the “Captain’s Cabin” is no bigger than a large closet. It has a bed that has been folded in half to be a chair and a short desk with a chair opposite each other. “I am told the original owner reduced the captain’s cabin to make room for gizmos and gadgets that are supposed to make it easier to crew this ship alone and run salvage operations. I’ve found these custom “improvements” and honestly I’m loath to touch them as despite my years of experience as a naval officer with the Mailed Fist I can’t quite tell just what each one is supposed to do and I’d hate to accidentally find a self-destruct button. I’m not sure how familiar you are with the eccentric do-it yourself crowd but whether it be an exotic lair or some kind of modified vehicle normally there is a self-destruct button somewhere in my experience so I’ve been very firm with the crew about not touching anything. Granted that would make things harder if we actually ever had to sail this thing but for right now my orders were just to occupy her, maintain her and prevent trespassing. I know my employers are fond of gambling and just as things can be won they can be lost so if you’ll be as so kind as to show me that writ of ownership you were talking about, we can get down to the business of negotiating my continued employment…that is if you are interested in my continued employment. You are interested in my continued employment, yes?” The half-elf asks Loren
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Tuesday September 10th, 2024 10:11:55 AM
"Drack's back" Ash says as he pats his friend on the back. " A little card game and we're in the shipping business. "
AC 20 HP 84 Drack ; Chris J Tuesday September 10th, 2024 11:09:12 AM
Drack hugs Manolo back. "good to see you my friend."
After Hank speaks, Drack looks at the heavens. This is when you send me back my lord? for an ocean adventure?... Your will be done my Lord."
Drack whispers back to Hank, "who is going to run this ship if we evict them all? I don't know squat about boats. Let us wait and see my friend. perhaps they are just honest sailors trying to make a living. when the time is right, I will discern what evil lays amongst them."
"good job keeping these spell casters alive Hank."
Drack gives Ash a pat on the back in return. "good to see you again my friend."
Drack then waits to see what Loryn works out with the captain.
Lay hands 11/11 spells: 1st: Divine Favor, bless, prot. from evil 2nd: Bulls strength, shield other
AC 13 HP 50/50 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday September 10th, 2024 12:11:49 PM "Nobody?" the gnome looks around at the flat no response to his, in his opinion only likely, beautifully crafted joke. " Ack What do you know from funny"
Loryn heads into the cabin, luckily he's a gnome and doesn't occupy too much room because ono exaggeration on the cramped quarters. Loryn relays the Captain's words to everyone else as he hands the man the writ for all the examination the good captain wants to do. The Mailed Fist, well that perked his thoughts and calms him somewhat. The group should be dealing above board with the current occupants then. Mailed Fist was a group of mercs sure, but they were generally all rules and contracts and such.
"Being a kind of tinkerer myself captain, I can appreciate the forethought on your part to not press the jolly candy like button. As to continued employment, I feel honesty works best here and the truth is, we hadn't considered a crew to be aboard, let alone employed. That will need to be a discussion point tomorrow amongst us I think. For now, we plan to remain aboard and personally protect our property as sometimes those who lose do not take it well."
Loryn pauses for feedback through the Message and to get the captain's reaction.
Active Spell: Mage Armor +4AC 8 hours; Message Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: Dancing Lights 1st lvl: 7/8 2nd lvl: 8/8 3rd lvl: 6/6 4th lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 59/59 CMD: 6 d20+19=34 ; Tuesday September 10th, 2024 6:54:31 PM
Gnubert whispers his approval via the message spell, and continues to stand vigiantly outside keeping watch (Perception DC 34)
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 26 -- HP 77 Tuesday September 10th, 2024 11:51:32 PM
Hank softens a bit when he hears the captain is a veteran of the Mailed Fist. Hmm... Maybe he will be alright. He waits to listen to the conversation unfold.
LOG ON