Sunblaze Thursday March 8th, 2001 7:31:33 PM
Sunblaze hears the voice and listens carefully. "Did anyone hear that?" She didn't really ask it to anyone, it just slipped her lips. 'Trent...did you hear that as well?' She looks in wonder as she is told not to destroy the place. "What if the chance is handed to us? If it is right there for us to use?"
Sunblaze looks at Oratai. "I wish for it to happen. Two minds, one body..." She looks around for a moment. "Please don't tell the others this, but it is my own fault. I failed with magic and this is what came of it. I haven't been able to use a Dispel Magic spell, so I have been stuck like this, but I think it was just undone. I no longer feel the other me... I thank thee." She is somewhat scared that her information will get out.
Sedar the Chameleon (ring) Thursday March 8th, 2001 9:14:23 PM
"Well, I would have to say that making such scrolls takes a certain talent. A few of us could begin with reseaching the magic academy for those who are strong in such talent or those who have shown a wicked humor in its uses. At least a start before we track them further."
Arien Friday March 9th, 2001 12:25:11 AM
"Most paper makers leave a watermark on their works, if it is still on these pieces of paper we should be able to use it to trace it back to the manufacturer, from there a spy or a well placed bribe or two could lead us to these people rather quickly. After that we would simply need to follow the people back to their base of operations and we could then implement a simple rotating schedule for surveillance."
Rond Friday March 9th, 2001 8:26:51 AM
"Are there common areas where the messages are showing up in? Or is there no pattern to where they are being found?"
Farlonger Friday March 9th, 2001 8:01:03 PM
"Er, if I may interject and be a bit of a snobbity-poo for a moment, I've got a few ideas. If you want to hear them?"
Farlonger looks around at those accompanying him, but doesn't seem to mind whether they actually want to hear said ideas or not. Undaunted, he continues.
"The guy in my head told me that on the next full moon, the people affected by the posters were to gather in the Arena for some sort of Wold-ending ceremony or some such. So that gives us two options!
"The first is doing a round of the local city dweller temples and finding out about any orders that have some kind of doomsday outlook. It's important that we don't make it clear we're interested as part of the poster conspiracy... er.. that is.. unless we WANT to be followed. So we can follow them? Hey, there's an idea!
"The second is to go to this Arena place and see what its lay is, in case we have to camp out there or end up going there, anyway."
Farlonger blushes to the tips of his pointy, pale ears.
"Well, those are my ideas anyway. I'm going to go see if I can't prepare myself to ask the pigeons what they've seen. Pigeon's eye view and all. I'm not intruding too much, am I? Tell me if I am!"
Oratai (DM Kim) Saturday March 10th, 2001 1:32:38 AM
The wise woman, Patriarch of Alemi, looks at Sunblaze as the latter speaks her confused words. "Come see me tomorrow. Damocles will show you the way. Good night, daughter." She takes her leave. ---------- [OOC: We'll handle the meeting via email -DM Kim]
Bill Troublefinder Saturday March 10th, 2001 1:54:24 AM
"'Snobbity-poo'!" Bill quotes Farlonger. "Good word!" he comments with a chuckle. "Well, let's see. Sedar - so, you think we should find out who makes scrolls, and who might be inclined to make these types of scrolls. Arien - you think there might be watermarks, or at least some way of finding out where the parchment or paper was purchased. Rond - you want to discover the patterns of distribution. Farlonger - you suggest we find out what cult or cults are focusing on doomsday. Ha! What about the Sons of Dread? Maybe there are others, too. And check out the Arena, and talk to the birds. What do birds know? No offense, Farlonger, I just wonder what a pigeon's gonna know about scrolls. Bread crumbs, yes. Draax - you get some sleep, and maybe in the morning you'll have some ideas. Oh - here come Sunblaze and Damocles. Those are great ideas, guys. We already know some of the places they've been posted, right, Rondaroonie? And M... Mr. Hammer told us some places. Wow! More money, just for finding out things! I like this place. I wonder if I can get a red wig."
When back in the rooms where the group stays, Bill whispers, "Let's call the fellow who's asking us for help 'Mr. Hammer' - so that we don't use his real name, and somebody overhears us. Okay?"
DM Kim Saturday March 10th, 2001 2:02:49 AM
The members of the group find their way back to the rooms they have rented. In the morning, a messenger arrives. "I was told to give this to an ugly guy name of Rond," a pimply boy announces. "Rond here?" When Rond shows up, he is handed a little card. "Varian's Costumes: Varied attire for those whose needs vary" are the words written on the card. An address in the Noble Quarter is given. "I can take you there, or you can get lost yourselves," the lad offers, holding out his hand in the time-honored way of messengers expecting something of value to be placed therein.
Draax Saturday March 10th, 2001 2:37:37 AM
Before heading back to their rooms Draax says to the group. "I cannot think of anything that has not been said already. I do like Farlonger's idea about going to the arena to see what's going on there. I think we should go before the meeting, during the meeting, and after the meeting if necessary. The only problem that I see with this idea is that, since suggestion type magic was used to get the people to the meeting. They may use the same type of magic or stronger at the meeting and Oratai will not be there to dispel it this time."
Looking at Bill. "You are right Bill, maybe I can come up with something better after a good night sleep."
Damocles Saturday March 10th, 2001 3:48:44 PM
"Hmm. An enjoyable morning it seems," states Damocles, offering up his morning devotions. "Sunblaze, shall we walk together?" He asks, turning to the Bard. "I would not like to keep the Mother waiting, if it can be avoided."
Rond Monday March 12th, 2001 9:43:39 AM
Rond herds the boy outside of the room, " I will be along shortly, to follow you back to the shop. I need a minute to discuss some things with my friends". Once the lad is deposited outside, Rond comes back in to the room. "Why don't we consider meeting together right after the meeting. I could plan on not going to the meeting, and meet you afterwords. We could either ask for someone to accompany us, and check for magical influences. Or, when someone doesn't make the meeting, then determine that we need some help at that time. Assuming that everyone that makes the meeting is in fine mental health (cough cough)." At the end of his statement, Rond first looks to Bill, with a twinkle in his eye, and then looks towards Sunblaze,with a little more seriousness.
Sedar Monday March 12th, 2001 8:15:43 PM
"Rond I'll go with you this morning. I'll like to see this place. Afterwards I'll drop by the guild to see what I can find out and meet everyone back here again.... so what time you want to go, Rond?"
Bill Troublefinder Tuesday March 13th, 2001 2:47:15 AM
Bill takes the outstretched messenger's hand and gives him a polite halfling handshake (not too hard, not too soft). "Glad to meet you, lad. Oh, right, Rond." He releases the boy's hand, and follows his tall friend back into the room. "So, you want some of us to go with this guy to Varian's? Oh - bye Damocles, bye Sunblaze. But - Hey, guys," he says to the retreating cleric and mage/bard, "let's meet back here for brunch."
"Good idea, Rond. You want to go in with most everyone else, and I'll wait outside, kinda in the shadows, y'know? Then if'n there's trouble of some sort, I can roust the cavalry? That what you have in mind more or less?"
Pimply-faced boy (DM Kim) Tuesday March 13th, 2001 2:53:29 AM
The messenger, maybe 13 years old, looks at the hand that the halfling just shook. He rolls his eyes, and as the door closes, he is seen crossing his arms and tapping his foot.
When the adventurers leave the room after their conference, the boy says, "So, what, you want me to take you there or what? I'll do it for nothin' if you pay me a silver," he states ambiguously. "No skin off my nose either way."
Bill Troublefinder Tuesday March 13th, 2001 2:55:15 AM
Bill pays the boy a silver piece, and hands Sedar a second. "Give this to him if he gets you there with no problems, 'kay?"
Bill follows the group at a distance, trying not to look as though he is following them.
Rond Tuesday March 13th, 2001 5:53:54 AM
"Actually, I meant the rally meeting, that the others were talking about. There was some concern that if someone got caught up in one of the spells, that how do we counter that. So I was thinking that we could have a meeting time and place for after the rally, where, if someone didn't make it, we went looking for the person, and got them magical help."
"I was planning on going to Varian's anyway. If you wanted to follow, you could."
Once the meeting breaks up, Rond joins the boy outside and gathers everyone that is going in a group. "Okay, child, we are ready to go."
Draax Tuesday March 13th, 2001 9:54:40 PM
Draax joins Rond, Sedar and anyone who comes along. "Anyway, have we decided a plan for the meeting?"
Arien Tuesday March 13th, 2001 10:44:17 PM
Arien decides to put a disguise together at the shop before going to investigate the matter at hand.
"Follow me." DM Kim Wednesday March 14th, 2001 2:22:30 AM
The boy leads on. The group passes through the Merchants Quarter, then to the bridge just south of Riverside and Vault Roads - not too far from the University of Magic. Well-armored guards issue challenge at the bridge. The boy holds up a round piece of leather with a gem sewn into the middle. The guards stand back. "Walk on in peace," one says.
Along the King's Road, the boy turns right onto Parade Road. Where that intersects with Crystal Way, one of the many walled fortress-like mansions stands. "Follow me," he says, turning left into an arbored pathway toward a building with five towers. Halfway down the path, he pushes through some bushes to the left, walks parallel to the path for fifteen feet, then pushes back through the vegetation back on to the path, walks up to the door, knocks once, and waits a moment. "Follow me," he says, heading back down the path. This time, however, at the fifteen foot section he earlier bypassed, you see him descending into the pathway, as though walking down stairs. On the other hand, it appears as though the cobblestone path is swallowing up his body. His head disappears beneath the path.
Another path. DM Kim Wednesday March 14th, 2001 2:40:11 AM
The Shrine of Alemi lies in the Outcast Quarter, not too far from the Foreign Market of the Foreign Quarter. Damocles and Sunblaze skirt the Abandoned Pyramid, then pass on into the Outcast Quarter. They see over the rooftops the upper levels of Lasher Castle. One of the Alemian brotherhood motions for Sunblaze and Damocles. "She awaits you inside, brother, sister," he says. Amidst run-down shacks which surround the shrine is one that looks as though it has been treated with greater care, and it is into this that the brother beckons the pair. Damocles recognizes him as Gordinian, a fair-minded adjudicator by reputation, and mid-level in the church's hierarchy.
Damocles (near Alemi's Shrine) Wednesday March 14th, 2001 12:43:38 PM
"Hello Brother, it is good to be again in the care of the church," Damocles states, greeting him. "For as though I decided the life of a monk was not the one I needed... I am still comforted by Alemi's warm embrace on the grounds of my God."
He pauses for a moment and gestures to Sunblaze. "This is Sunblaze, as I am sure the Mother has told you."
DM Kim Wednesday March 14th, 2001 3:38:47 PM
As the group follows the boy, they descend beneath the illusory surface, and, past a door at the foot of the stairs, enter a medium-sized room with a couple of hallways and a doorway or two. In the room stand a number of statues dressed in many different styles of clothing. A banner says, "Welcome to Varian's".
A short, plump man, clad in a plaid vest, brown bloomers, a red beret, and other odd accoutrements, walks in through the doorway. "Ah, Jasper, thank you, lad," he says in an adenoidal voice. He hands the boy a little pouch. "Now shoo, boy." Jasper leaves.
"Yes, yes, Marcus made an appointment for you. It's disguises we want, eh? Right place for you today! We have vast variety in our vaults." The man steps behind the counter next to the entryway, which makes it difficult to see him. Rond, being tall enough to see over, notes the man removing his vest, and doffing his beret. He then stands up straight. His 4'6" foot height has changed, and he now stands about 5'6", the rather pasty complexion now supplanted by a light tan. His eyes are the same color, though. "So, tell me, Varian that is, what kinds of disguises you would like," he says, now in a well-modulated voice, with none of the adenoidal effects heard earlier. Had Rond not observed the whole thing, it would have seemed foolish to think this is the same short person who greeted them.
Sunblaze (near Alemi's Shrine) Wednesday March 14th, 2001 7:52:00 PM
Sunblaze comes along, she seems nervous. Unlike Damocles have ever seen her. Her hands are sweaty and she seems to be taking all this in with a heavy heart. "I could have been more helpful with them... disguises..." She is ready to run out of here if she needs to, or feels she wants to.
Draax Wednesday March 14th, 2001 11:44:01 PM
The 5'9" half-elf looks at the man with a puzzled look on his face. "I never really thought about what disguise I would use. Turning to everyone. "You guys are better at this than me. What would you suggest for a disguise that I could pull off?"
Bill Troublefinder Thursday March 15th, 2001 1:22:45 AM
Bill looks around at all the costumes, and walks around touching the different fabrics. He looks into the openings - hallways? other rooms? to see what lies beyond. "Do you think I should disguise myself as a stone giant, guys? Or maybe a dry sahuagin? I know - Fipps! I could do him." Approximating the cleric's irritating voice, he mimics, "'Hello miss, My, what an ugly dress you are wearing today. It does match your bushy eyebrow, though.'" Then he shudders. "No, sorry guys, I don't want to do Fipps, on second thought."
"Draax? How about a ... a ... hmmm. I dunno. Shopkeeper? Clerk? Bouncer? Curmudgeon? Circus trainer?" Bill seems remarkably full of energy this morning. "Varian, we are going to be merchants, I think. Selling gear for adventurers, maybe, or something like that. Our friend is helping us get set up. But sometimes we want to ..."
Varian (DM Kim) Thursday March 15th, 2001 1:33:08 AM
"Yes, yes, yes," the costumer interrupts Bill. "I don't likely need your life story." He pulls out from behind the counter a box, 9"x11.5"x4", and opens it. "Makeup here. See this little pop-up mirror? Helps you see where you are putting it. Touch here," and he touches a little white stone in the tray, "and the light comes on." A soft white light illuminates the area before the mirror. He touches it again, and it gets moderately bright, a third time and it is very bright. "One more touch turns it off. As you see there are a number of different foundations, rouges, powders, eyeliners, lighteners, darkeners, and such. This deluxe kit goes for 560 gold." He lifts one corner, and a tray comes up, revealing another underneath, holding still more makeup paraphenalia. "I have lesser kits, of course. For as little as 50 gold. I'm afraid nothing less expensive than than, as I will not carry anything of poor quality. Although, once you learn enough about disguises, even poor quality can do in a pinch."
"Plenty of clothes, of course. And a few items of magic which can help out. I have a few hats of disguise, great for quick changes. Got one for two thou, one at twenty two hundred, and one at twenty five hundred gold." He reaches under the counter, and puts on the red beret the short fellow was wearing when first you saw him. It changes into a green 'Robin Hood' style cap, and now Varian stands over six feet tall, slender, with a ruddy complexion, and forest greens. "Danger is, somebody touches you, and what they feel doesn't match up with what they see, they can get confused at best, suspicious at worst. If you take care, though, you can cut down on that problem. Takes practice."
He goes over to a rack of clothes. He takes down a satiny red cloak. "Somebody is following you. 'Get the guy in the red cloak!'" he shouts theatrically. Varian reaches in through a small slit, grasps something inside, and shakes the cloak - and the cloak goes inside out. Now he holds in his hand a soft flannel brown cloak. "Then you turn around and say, 'The red cloak went thataway!'" He wiggles his now handsome eyebrows up and down.
"Fake mustaches, beards, beauty marks. Got 'em all. Got some dust of illusion - 500 gp, a little dust of disappearance - 3,500 gp, a wand of enlarge - 750 gp, a kilt of gender reversal - gotta check the price on that - been having a few kinks with the last couple of kilts. Now, I don't have one here today, but a robe of blending is a sweet item. Can cost ten, eleven thousand gold."
"So!" he says, rubbing his hands together. "You give the say-so, and I'll come up with some mundane disguises for each of you. I can do masks - I see you have one already," he says to Rond. "Or whatever is necessary. Tell me how you'd like to look, or what role you want to play, and we'll work on it together."
Morning Tea (DM Kim) (near Alemi's shrine) Thursday March 15th, 2001 2:38:13 AM
"Yes, Damocles, of course, of course. Sunblaze, I am Gordinian. You needn't be nervous. The Patriarch will see you. We've prepared some herbal tea." The brother leads the two down a narrow hallway, and into a side room. "Have a seat, please. She will be right in."
Moments after Damocles and Sunblaze are seated at a small round table, Patriarch Oratai enters the room. "Please don't stand. We need no formalities this morning." Oratai places her hand briefly on Sunblaze's shoulder. "I'm glad you chose to come this morning, dear. Thank you for coming, good brother." Oratai takes a seat, and Gordinian pours three cups of tea. He places some scones before each person on a small plate. A cloth serviette rests under a table knife and spoon next to each plate.
Gordinian looks upward. "For Thy bounty and goodness, we thank Thee, Blessed Alemi," he says. He nods in leavetaking, and exits the room.
Oratai sips some tea, and eats her scone, encouraging her two guests to do the same. "Now, dear. I know you are unsettled, and apprehensive," she says to Sunblaze. "If you are honest, whatever you perceive the cost of that honesty, you have little or nothing to fear. Tell me, how long have you been of two minds? And just what is the fear that possesses you?"
Need some coaxing? (DM Kim) Thursday March 15th, 2001 3:00:36 PM [OOC: Gentlemen - c'mon, tell Varian how you want to change. What type of changes? This is a good time to describe how your character normally looks - eye & hair and skin color, length and style of hair, complexion, size of nose, facial hair, warts or wrinkles or scars or other salient characteristics. Also - tell us here how your character is normally attired. What kind of clothes, colors, fabrics, jewelry, other accoutrements? Let's post, gang! An important part of role-playing and character development is to have a good mind's-eye view of what your character looks like, and to communicate such to the other players and DM. No blank-face characters. I'll pull out my secret stash of rewards to those who do a suitably good descriptive job.
One other item: I've received only two updated 3e character sheets following the magic distribution. Please get those in right away. -Thanks -DM Kim]
Sunblaze Thursday March 15th, 2001 9:03:15 PM
(First things first. Will I have a chance at disguises, because that is something I, Sunblaze, would love. Second my character sheet will be with you soon. In 'new' text format.)
Sunblaze is puzzled at why this woman would ask of her past. Yet she seems willing. "I have 'been of two minds' for not long. It has been less then a year, and it is my own fault." She stops as if to ponder. "It was because of magic, magic that I failed to use at an abled stage in my Magehood. I tryed to make a double of me... an extremely hard spell even for those who knew it. But, alas, I am not the strongest mage. It ended up not making two bodies, but two minds. That is my story, although it is not a great one, it is true." She smiles fakily.
Sedar of the Chameloen Friday March 16th, 2001 2:25:13 AM
"Rond I think the bouncer type is a good disguise for you. Maybe working the door at some tavern would give you some an earful of tips to help us out." The light-framed 1/2 elf then turns to the disguise master, adding, "Well Varian, those items you mention sound great, but I am interested in some that just won't make me stand out in a crowd. You see I have this nice little ring of chameleon powers. It really allows me to blend in with a crowd well, along with other things. So a disguise that will help me go simply unnoticed is what I am after. ... Rond if you bounce at a place maybe I'll bartend. That way we could keep an eye on each other. ... Hey Bill what think you of working in a watering hole to gather some info?"
Arien Friday March 16th, 2001 2:57:00 AM
"Hmm, I think that looking like a fop could be interesting. Let me see what you have that's bright." Arien browses through the selections pausing a few times to consider a piece, those that meet his approval go slung over one arm. After he finds what he is looking for he approaches the shopkeeper, "Pardon me but could you show me to the changing rooms? I would certainly try before I buy."
After secluding himself in one of the indicated rooms Arien changes quickly. After finishing the task he examines himself in the mirror. After a moment he nods in satisfaction. The clothes he wears now are almost completely opposite of what he normally wears. Used to sneaking about Arien usually wore muted tones that could blend in with the night. These clothes do anything but blend however. He wears a shirt of bright blue silk and bright scarlet pantaloons. The soft leather boots reach up to the knee and the long, blue cloak drags on the floor. He sports a yellow sash with his rapier and dagger on either side. Then to top it all off he wears a broad brimmed hat that is somewhat fastidiously tilted and crowned with a great green plume.
Satisfied, he stows his old clothes momentarily, then returns to the group. As he approaches them he gives his cloak a dramatic swirl and bows deeply to them. "Arien Silverbow at your pleasure, swashbuckler extrodinaire."
Damocles (near Alemi's Shrine) Friday March 16th, 2001 9:06:54 PM
The priest remains silent, watching, and observing the goings on. He seems rather unfamiliar with this type of situation, and almost a bit uncomfortable in the presence of the high priestess.
Draax Friday March 16th, 2001 10:51:11 PM
Draax looks into a mirror, wondering how he would look with his black hair changed or his hazel eyes another color. He thinks about Bill's suggestion about a shopkeeper, but thinks that he would fit in better as a bouncer or bodyguard. "Hey Varian, I will take one of those 'hats of disguise' and one of your lesser kits." The half-elf smiles to himself. "This just might be fun."
Oratai (DM Kim) (near Alemi's Shrine) Saturday March 17th, 2001 2:53:45 AM
"Do not smile to please me," Oratai says to Sunblaze, a harsh edge to her voice. Then she tempers the rebuke by adding more softly, "Words of truth are pleasing to me, and to Alemi above. We have sought His counsel, and heard what you have said."
She turns to Damocles, notes, "You feel unsure of yourself, brother Damocles. Fear not. Two questions for you: Do you, Damocles, vouch for this woman, Sunblaze? You have known her not long, I realize. But I repeat: Do you vouch for this woman? If so, will you stand by her in her time of need?" She awaits his answer...
Then returns her attention to Sunblaze. "You said last night that your doublemindedness was dealt with through the dispellation of magic. There is one more thing that will seal the process. After that, I will give you a scroll that you must read daily, which will help to strengthen the oneness of your mind, and soul, and spirit. Will you submit to this process and regimen?" the Patriarch of Alemi asks Sunblaze.
Sunblaze (near Alemi's Shrine) Saturday March 17th, 2001 12:42:52 PM
The smile leaves Sunblaze's face the second she's told to. She knows that trust is something earned, but she just wants it over with. She wonders how Damocles could help her, in her time of need. When asked if she shall submit to the process she considers for a moment. Then she looks up. "Yes I shall."
Farlonger Saturday March 17th, 2001 11:34:02 PM
Farlonger considers the shop full of costumes and illusionary devices for a moment, scratching his chin thoughtfully. After taking it all in, he turns to the shopkeeper.
"Do you have anything resembling a religious pilgrim's robes or anything to that effect? Nothing immediately indicating a specific religion mind you. Just something... clerical looking. Am I making any sense? OH! And make them in something nice and flashy. I'd like to be noticed, too..."
Farlonger stops, and pulls out a strand of his chalk-white hair, chuckling a bit.
"I'll probably need some hair dye and some make-up, too. Or... no wait! I'd like a hat of disguise! But I'd still like all of those robes and what not. Okay, that'll be fine..
"Say, I think I'm beginning to like this shopping business! So when is the next full moon, anywho?"
Damocles (near Alemi's Shrine) Sunday March 18th, 2001 4:55:11 PM
"Yes honorable Mother, I shall agree to vouch for her and keep her safe. I shall hold this as sacred an Oath as one can hold in the eyes of Alemi." Damocles, on that note, bows his head to the high priestess as a sign of reverence before turning to Sunblaze. "The scales of your mind can now be balanced, and internal justice will be done. By the grace of Alemi."
Oratai, Patriarch of Alemi (DM Kim) Monday March 19th, 2001 12:56:43 AM
Oratai attends to what Sunblaze and Damocles say. "Very well. Damocles, as you rise in power, one day you may be able to cast the spell which today I prepared for our friend here. There are many applications of the healing arts. Alemi allows us in the heal spell to channel positive energy into a person, or creature, to wipe away disease and injury. By His virtue, it cures nearly all diseases, blindness, deafness, wounds, even some short-term mental or physical losses. It serves as well to neutralize poisons in the person's body. Some spells which produce feeblemindedness are overcome by this gift from above. And, most important for you, today, Sunblaze, is that mental disorders caused by spells or injury to the brain are cured. A single application of the spell is needed to simultaneously achieve all these effects."
Her instruction and explanation complete, Alemi's Patriarch tells Sunblaze, "I shall call forth words of power, and place my hands upon your head." As soon as Sunblaze is ready, Oratai raises one hand to the sky, and places the other over her own still-slender belly. She chants a couplet of sanctified words, then her hands come to rest on the half-elven mage/bard. Sunblaze feels a warmth, a sense of well-being, and a reintegration of her heretofore somewhat mixed-up self.
Oratai then looks into Sunblaze's eyes. Apparently satisfied, she pulls out from her sleeve a scroll tube. "Words of wisdom are written herein. Each day, read for at least five minutes what is scribed herein. Twenty one sections there are - one for each day of the month, plus one extra. One day a month, read two of the sections. All other days, one section. Do this, Sunblaze, for at least three months. After that, pick it up and read it from time to time, as you feel the urge. I read from it now every fifth day, and each day during the Month of The Sun and the Month of Pilgrimage. If you have questions, ask Damocles. And, dear one, you are welcome to come and ask of the brothers and sisters here, or of me."
She stands. "Now, your friends are at Varian's," Oratai says. "Come with me, and you may join them." She leads the two adventurers further down the narrow hallway, which comes to a T-intersection. To the left she goes. Gordinian is there. "Brother. Take our brother and friend to the Noble Quarter. A boy there will lead them the rest of the way. Use the underpath. Then, Gordinian, administer these potions to the sick at the Shrine of St. Cormac in Shanty Town Quarter. Sister Hairgold will help you," she says, handing him a box in a sack. The lady, both gracious and regal, nods her head to Sunblaze and Damocles, and turns to go. Then she pauses, and holds up a warning finger. "Please, speak not of the underpath to others, outside of those with whom you met last night. Discretion." She then walks gracefully away, round the corner and out of sight.
Gordinian on the underpath (DM Kim) Monday March 19th, 2001 1:59:19 AM
The brother bows to Oratai. "Wait here a moment," he says to Sunblaze. He takes Damocles into the next room. "Here, brother, are the two wooden slats you must depress at the same time to open..." and he presses two slats on one wall. A click is heard, and Damocles notes a rectangular hatch has lifted slightly off the floor. "...this trap door." Gordinian slides his hand under the edge, and lifts. There is no discernible sound as he lifts the door. "Last year a thief saw a vision of Alemi, and converted to faith. He has made improvements in certain areas since he joined. Regularly oils the hinges," he points out.
"C'mon in now, Sunblaze," Gordinian beckons. He leads the two down the steps below the trapdoor, and picks up a torch from a neatly piled stack of torches next the landing. He takes a moment to light his torch, then lights two more, handing one to each. "I'll get you into the Noble Quarter. Follow me!" he says cheerfully. The underground passageway varies from five to ten feet wide. Other passageways intersect, join, split off from the path the priest of Alemi takes his brother in the faith and Sunblaze through. There are guards at a few intersections. Gordinian pulls a medallion he wears around his neck up from under his robes to show to the guards, and they wave him to pass with his companions. At one point as they draw near another intersection, the sound of pottery breaking is heard, followed by a word of profanity, and the sound of feet running away. Gordinian presses his finger to his lips, indicating silence, then continues on, leaving the intersection behind. At last, another set of stairs is reached. Gordinian asks Sunblaze to wait just around the corner. He shows Damocles how to unlock the door at the top of the stairs, then calls for Sunblaze to join them. They come out into a small stone chamber. He presses his hand on two stones, and rests his knee on a third stone, not hiding this from Sunblaze. Click. Slide. A room is through the 4' wide opening just before them. He extinguishes his torch, and instructs them to do the same. He leans the torches against one wall of the stone chamber.
"Take the door next the statue," he tells them. A statue of a boy fishing by a stream sits next to the indicated door. "The boy should be waiting for you. Blessings!"
Pimply-faced Jasper. Costume Reunion. (DM Kim) Monday March 19th, 2001 2:09:31 AM
"'Bout time. Your friends probably are done by now." The boy who brought Varian's card to the group this morning stands there, his arms crossed. He leads Damocles and Sunblaze a few manors down to Varian's shop. "Look, here are your friends," he says, then himself leaves. Draax, Rond, Sedar, et al are trying on various interesting and outlandish sets of clothing.
Bill Troublefinder Monday March 19th, 2001 2:17:07 AM
Bill laughs at Arien Silverbow's flourish. "Yeah, Sedar. If a watering hole is a good place for information, sure. How about a bar or tavern, instead?" Hard to tell whether Bill is being facetious, but the twinkle in his eye might give a clue.
"Varian, I'd like some wigs. Do you have any small stilts? There's still one hat of disguise left, right?"
Varian (DM Kim) Monday March 19th, 2001 2:41:30 AM
The costumer answers most of the adventurers' questions in the affirmative. He adjusts clothing here and there, opens chests to suggest accessories, takes out three or four different long narrow strips of cloth with lines marked in small regular increments, and jots notes down on a little pad of paper.
"Full moon?" he responds to Farlonger's question. "You lookin' like one of those nature boys, figured you'd keep up on that sort of thing. It's ... I think maybe fourteen days from now. Fifteen? About then."
There seems no end to the varieties of clothing he possesses. His skill with chalk and scissors are clearly evident. One might suppose him the nimblest tailor in the city. Varian recommends that each person have at least two sets of disguises. "Maybe you'll like one more than another. But at least you have a choice that way."
He tallys what each person has chosen. Figure 50 to 100 gp for each full getup. The fancier outfits (such as Arien's getup) can run to a few hundred. The kit for Draax is 60 gp. "You need this special makeup with your complexion," he explains.
He grins with delight at Arien's outfit. He suggests the addition of a brooch on his upper right breast. "Make sure the blouse does not bunch up under the pants. Smooth it out first. If you're going to do a fop, attention to detail says it all." He brings a ruffled collar to add to the mix. And offers a choice of three different wigs - powdered white, brown, and auburn.
Varian expresses an interest in Sedar's Ring of the Chameleon, and politely requests to take a look at it. "A find indeed, a find indeed. Seen a few of these in my time. By its markings, I'd say it comes from ... Fargunia, if I'm not mistaken."
"So, anything else? Yes," he answers Bill, "Three hats of disguise. 2500, 2200, 2000. Wigs aplenty. Stilts? Got some longer ones. Could have short ones by tomorrow, or maybe this afternoon."
When Sunblaze and Damocles arrive, he claps his hands together. "Ah, more from my friend." He runs them through what is available at what prices.
Damocles Monday March 19th, 2001 12:31:52 PM
Upon hearing Varian prattle of the list of items, Damocles begins doing something that takes the rest of the group a bit by surprise. His clothing begins to rapidly shift form as he begins to knowingly smile. Finally, it takes the form of a full suit of plate mail, resplendently and ornately crafted. "Glamered plate mail solves the part of actual cloth costumes for me. And I'd wager I'm the least easily recognized of any of the hamleteers.... but if the rest of you feel more is appropriate."
Draax Monday March 19th, 2001 7:38:09 PM
Draax listens to Varian give a total of expenses. "Hey Varian I requested one of the hats of disquise too." Draax wonders to himself why no one wants to sell him magic items.
Varian (DM Kim) Monday March 19th, 2001 7:54:10 PM
"Remarkable!" remarks Varian at the transformation of Damocles' clothing into armor. "Of course, sometimes it is the countenance or coiffure that needs realignment. And don't forget the shoes. One fellow disguised himself as a pauper, but his fine shoes gave him away at a glance."
Varian replies to Draax, "Oh, yes, yes, of course, there is one for you, sir. Take your pick." The first one looks like an elegant lady's hat with three feathers coming out of a mother of pearl shell on the left side. The second like a dirty, rumpled, hole-ridden cap of a laborer. The third has a broad rim, made of felt, and looks good for keeping out the rain. "Don't be deceived by the looks," he tells Draax. "Any one of these can change, depending upon your whim or need. Oh, next week I'm expecting a few additional magical aids to disguise, just so you know. Tell Marcus if you're interested, and he'll arrange a meeting. My shop moves all over town, so don't expect to find me here next time."
Rond Monday March 19th, 2001 10:33:57 PM
"I am not sure what I should be. I think that maybe the bounce should be the last choice, since I have to respond to fights, which would put my face in front of people, possible, or at least their fist, which, I wouldn't be happy about." Rond walks about, peering here and there, looking at colors, trying to size up anything that might work on his 6'4" frame. "What do the hats of disguise allow you to do? Maybe I could do something completely different, that wouldn't be related to who and what I am now."
Sedar Monday March 19th, 2001 11:04:08 PM
"Hey go ahead Draax and Rond, you guys need the most help with disguises. Take the hats. I have my ring here to help me out." Turning to Varian, Sedar says, "I would like a nice three outfits. One for moving in the merchant area something say middle classish. Another for the tavern hopping rather utilitarian, you know a little rugged looking. And one last one for the mages guild, to make me look rather well off. We can take measurements right away. Time is awasting you know." He smiles as Arien comes out of the dressing rooms. "Arien that looks great. Could barely recognize you." Then winks in return to Bill T. "I guess the real watering holes are for the animals after all."
Arien Tuesday March 20th, 2001 1:03:56 AM
"Ahh yes a brooch would do nicely, details indeed. I think I shall take the auburn wig. Hmm and another disguise is it? Well then I shall have to browse for a little longer till I find something that strikes my fancy."
Damocles Tuesday March 20th, 2001 2:14:01 PM
Damocles looks about the shop a bit more before turning to Varian a moment before they exit. "Oh... Well, these boots keep my step lively so I can move under all this weight, so I'd rather not go without them... same for the cloak." As they step outside his armor shifts form into that of a set of noble's clothes. 'Well, that's a bit better... So what are we doing from here? I had thought we were opening up an adventuring shop."
Draax Tuesday March 20th, 2001 10:31:24 PM
Draax looks at the various hats. "OK, I will take the laborer looking hat. I have a general idea of what the hat does, but does it comes with instructions?" Draax takes the hat and starts to experiment with it.
Sunblaze Tuesday March 20th, 2001 10:59:03 PM
Sunblaze seems speechless at the ongoings. She keeps quiet and nods her head if needed. As she leaves the place with Damocles she speaks quietly. "It seems I'm becoming a priest as well my friend. Your Patriarch seems a nice lady, and what god does she follow my friend? Was it Alemi?"
When she reaches her friends she seems to have put her troubles aside, along with her interest in the Priestly way. "What have you got my friend?" Her eyes looking at the store. As Varian says some items Sunblaze repeats them. "Wand of enlarge... Kilt of gender reversal... Deluxe kit..." She walks around the outfits and watches the others. "I also have a Ring, it is one called of a creature that can go into its surroundings and blend... what was that creature's name?" She finally decides something. A smile crosses her face. "Damocles - I can help with the adventure shop I can make scrolls and some magic items. But what about this? We could open a Costume shop!!! That would be perfect." She then starts to decide what to buy. "That Cloak thingy sounds good... how much? Also I want a Kilt of Gender whatever...big word; Wand of Enlarge; Deluxe Kit - that'll do for make-up. Wish I could've gotten one of those hats, shucks. A wig, blonde. I'm going to love this. Wow... never been like this before." She looks around. "I think I'm going to want a Priest outfit - to the god of Alemi, if possible. Perhaps I could even learn some stuff from Damocles too!" She looks at what she has with her now and laughs. "Anything else that I might need my friends?"
Varian (DM Jerry) Wednesday March 21st, 2001 3:43:25 PM
Oh, I would suggest that you not disguise yourself as a priest. That cover is too easy to penetrate. You can't cast spells and Gods tend to frown upon such things. Now a set of worship clothes to go with the "wardrobe" of your alter ego is a good touch. Think in terms of the "complete" person you with to become.
It's sorta like role-playing. You're designing a whole person to be.
Will the Real Hamleteers Please Stand Up (DM Jerry) Wednesday March 21st, 2001 3:49:52 PM
The shopping and planning of your alter egos continues. After a few hours, everyone seems satisfied. As you begin to sweat the cost of the bill that is to be offered, you find that it has been taken care of.
(Make sure that your character sheet now contains two descriptions of your character. "True Appearance" (Spy) and "Disguised Appearance" (Everday alter ego).)
The party heads out in their disguises. (Please describe yourself in disguise with your next post. If we need a couple of days here we can take them so you can be satisfied with your alter ego. I need 3E character sheets ASAP please before we proceed please. Email me if I can help.)
Rond Thursday March 22nd, 2001 2:28:38 AM
"So what are we planning on doing then? Are we going to open up a shop? Are only some of us going to open the shop, and others will work someplace else? I ask, because I'm not sure me being a bounce in an adventurer's shop, would be a good thing?!"
ADM Todd Thursday March 22nd, 2001 2:30:03 AM
At the very least, lets keep posting and figure out what the characters are going to do inside the city.
Who Are These People? (DM Jerry) Thursday March 22nd, 2001 4:36:32 AM
As you emerge from the building into the early morning sun, (don't ask me how....I'm declaring a time) you find yourselves amidst a group of total strangers! You know who they are, and yet you don't. You look at each other with strange appraising looks and amusement.
Perhaps introductions are in order?
Sontra(AKA Sunblaze) Friday March 23rd, 2001 12:34:27 AM
A dark skinned man can be seen exiting from Varian's. His skin is a mixture of dark and light. If his eyes are looked at they seem quite depressing. His eyebrows, and lashes are that of one who never touches them. His head is covered by a hat, silvery and metal. Slightly blond hair can be seen coming from it's sides. His mouth is covered by a mustache, and his chin by a bead, both are the same color as his hair, only slightly darker. On his back a Shield can be seen, only barely because a Havernsack is covering it.
On his hands can be seen two rings, one a golden looking one and the other rusted. One of his hands is almost resting on a sword, held to his side. On the other side there is another sword, this one seems less...powerful.
A red cloak covers from almost head to toe, but beneath that red can be seen on the pants a shirt. He walks over to the crowd and is about to speak and then all of a sudden stops. He looks coldly at them, not a mean cold, but a tired of getting this cold.
Braald (Damocles) Friday March 23rd, 2001 2:00:40 PM
Garbed from head to toe in ornate, polished and spiked full plate mail, the great helmeted warrior that stands before you seems a bit intimidating. At 6' even, he is not as great in stature as some of those around him, but nevertheless, the confidence of his gait would suggest one that was familiar with the art of war. He wears a long, white cloak over his shoulders and bears a great mace at his side. "I am Braald," he proclaims, voice booming. "My arms are at your disposal."
Steps (AKA Draax) Friday March 23rd, 2001 6:36:24 PM
A young human youth about 16 or 17 summers stands before the group. He wears some hand-me-down leather armor with a brace of throwing knives across his chest and a headband. He stands about 5ft 9in, 170-180 lbs (the same height and weight as Draax). In a tough voice he says. "They call me Steps, I hear that there is an opening for a box boy or something. You name it; I can do it. You need someone thrown out; I can do that too. I'm just your average street punk, willing to do odd jobs for money." The tough looking young man's face begins to lighten up as he smiles and then he becomes mean looking again. "So, are you people hiring or what?"
Tamosvar (AKA Arien) Friday March 23rd, 2001 7:22:58 PM
Also exiting the shop is what can only be an Elven fop, or a swashbuckler. He walks with a swagger and with each step the large green plume on the top of his hat bobs. He removes his hat and makes a sweeping bow to the group. "Greetings there my dear fellows, I am known as Tamosvar and I am new to these parts. I am looking to go into business around here and am looking for some partners, from the looks and my instincts I would say that you chaps would work out just fine, so what do you say? Perhaps this isn't the place to discuss things though, mayhap we should retire to a nearby inn and discuss this over a fine wine?"
Varien (Dm Jerry) Saturday March 24th, 2001 2:24:04 PM
"Hmm....good, good, good. Uh, mister Damocles? I realize that wearing plate mail may have been a dream of yours for a long time, but I've never seen a merchant in armor. And if you became a bouncer, they'd just run past you. Plate mail is slow my friend. Why don't you come back inside and let's try something with an apron?"
He counts. "One, two, three, four. Shall we have a seat here and watch the others make their grand exit?"
Those who have exited see a posting board nearby with all kinds of notices on it: official, adverts, wanted posters, and classifieds. There are hundreds there.
Then he turns to Tamosvar and says, "Hmm... a swashbuckling merchant? Well it's original. Are you a former adventurer then retired to the merchant life? People are gonna ask that ya know...."
Damocles Saturday March 24th, 2001 4:53:09 PM
A long sigh is heard from inside the armor. After a moment passes Damocles pipes up with his normal voice... "All right..."
He steps inside the doors for a moment and allows the armor to take the form of a normal apron once out of view of the crowd. "So what do you suggest? I was never very good at acting..."
Sontra Saturday March 24th, 2001 7:38:55 PM
Sontra looks at Steps and comes to a decision. "Boy, you help me? I have a job or two for you." He watches the crowd, and keeps an eye on Steps.
Tamosvar Sunday March 25th, 2001 2:42:00 AM
"Retired? Not at all, not at all. You see when one is adventuring one finds all sorts of odds and ends that are often just left behind as their value to the adventurer is often less than the things they carry with them in the first place, so what better to do than to sell it to those newly aspiring adventurers or the type? Adventurers aren't the only ones who need arms, armor or other items, there are often mercenaries or merchant guards who need new equipment. Plus if the stock runs low it can be replenished by both adventure and the more mundane means."
Steps Sunday March 25th, 2001 1:42:00 PM
Steps looks at Sontra, the street youth takes a dagger in each hand, spinning them a few times before returning them to their sheath. In a tough sounding voice Steps replies to Sontra. "You have work? That's good, I work hard for my pay and you will not be disappointed. So how much does it pays?" He leans against the wall, pulls a dagger and begins picking at his fingernails.
Sontra Sunday March 25th, 2001 4:35:35 PM
Sontra looks at Steps. "I have work, although it doesn't pay much at the begining, if you show you can do it then it can pay very well! But it all depends on how you work...if you slack off I decrease your pay. Got it?" He looks around for a moment. "I'll need all the help I can get though, so if you know anyone who can help..."
Nel - psst! It's Farlonger! Sunday March 25th, 2001 6:40:55 PM
Shortly, another person emerges from the well-hidden store. Dressed in simple flowing gray robes and wearing a wide brimmed hat, a human with a blotchy, red complexion and frazzled raven-black hair, the stranger steps towards where the others wait.
"So, friends," he says, performing a small turn so as to show off his new attire, "do I look convincing enough to be a religious pilgram? I think this is about right. They used to walk by my grove all the time back in the old days...
"Oh. Heh. It's me, Farlonger. But call me Nel. I'm going to use this to ask around at the temples about the doomsday prophecy. Think I can pass, maybe?"
Greeley -(Sedar of the chameleon ring) Sunday March 25th, 2001 9:45:56 PM
Wandering out with the crowd walks a nondescript individual. He seems to blend in with those about him. Some take him for a swashbuckler friend. Others for a young eager lad's sidekick. And yet another as a fellow pilgrim. "Who was that guy anyway. Did you see what he looked like?" There was that sly grin on his face as walked on by. Wasn't there?
Roger (Rond) Monday March 26th, 2001 2:10:30 AM
A man emerges wearing a leather tunic and belted leather pants. He's blond, stands about 5'8", and is very muscle bound. "Call me Roger. If someone is being a menace in your store, I'm the person to call." Dropping to a hushed voice, he says, "I suggest that we not worry too much about what we are supposed to do, until we have agreed upon a business. We probably want to get back with Marcus, and see what the next step is."
Workers Needed (DM Jerry) Monday March 26th, 2001 6:05:43 PM
Suddenly one of the posts is blown off of the "Posting Board" across the street. It flies by, tempting each of you to grab at it, looping right in front of Greeley's face.
Greeley doesn't see the whole ad, but he does pick up on the big words as there is a lull in the breeze.
THE BEER AND BATH WORKERS NEEDED
There are other similar postings on the board across the street.
Bill Troublefinder - as himself! Monday March 26th, 2001 7:01:32 PM
The halfling pulls at the edge of 'Steps'' tunic. He whispers, "Hey, just want to let you know, I've gotta go now. Somethin's come up, so you-know-who wants me workin' for him elsewhere for a little bit. I'll be back, maybe in a few days or so, I hope. Pass it on. Bye!"
Sontra Monday March 26th, 2001 8:01:55 PM
Sontra looks amazed when Bill says he isn't coming. "But... Bill..." He quickly recovers and moves over to the board. "Well boy, you may get a better job there, and I might as well!" He laughs, his mouth booming.
Steps Monday March 26th, 2001 8:26:56 PM
Steps looks down at Bill as he begins to whisper. "Got ya, seeya soon." He will inform those of the group that were not aware of Bill's departure.
He nods to Sontra. "You may be right, it looks like finding or creating work will not be a problem." He tries to focus on Greeley, but gives up as his eyes continue to avoid looking directly at the man. Steps walks over to the board and begins pulling posts that have work that would fit with his character.
Sontra Monday March 26th, 2001 9:46:33 PM
Sontra sees the clever boy pulling down all the ones he wants and does the same, taking only those that might help him gain some way of finding a decent spot to work. He also takes any that might fit his counterpart, Sunblaze. "Boy, you truly know what to do when it's needed."
Roger Monday March 26th, 2001 10:16:23 PM
When Roger is informed of Bill's departure, he mutters, "I wish Bill a safe journey."
As the others gather the various signs from the billboard, he asks, "I wonder if we should change back, or just go back to the inn, to talk with Marcus?"
Greeley Monday March 26th, 2001 11:21:41 PM
Quick and nimble hands grasp the floating paper as it brushes by his face. After gathering with the group and saying goodbye to his good friend Bill T., Greeley asks those gathered. "Hey all, just saw something interesting. Take a look at this." He lets those interested read on. "Beer and Bath looking for workers. It's an odd combo of things, but that should just suit us fine. Draax and I could go check it out. To see if it's a good idea or not. What say you there, Steps?"
Harry (Damocles) Tuesday March 27th, 2001 5:10:30 PM
A youngish blond haired man steps out, smiling as he does so. Youth is clear in his complexion, and he looks to be about twenty summers, and fair of skin. He wears simpler garb, fit for walking around town, a nicely made pair of boots and a long white cloak are the only pieces of his garb that vary from that of, perhaps, a minor merchant or artisan.
"I'm Harry, beginning actor... I'm looking for a stage to play on, but in the meantime am in sore need of employ. Would any of you gents 'ave an idea of where I could find work?"
Notices (DM Jerry) Tuesday March 27th, 2001 8:54:32 PM
THE BEER AND BATH WORKERS NEEDED Had to fire the whole lot due to thievery. Emergency pay for the first two weeks for quick responses! See Stella manager.
The Flying Pig Need bartender and bouncer See Hobnob
House of Blood Gladiator School now taking students for upcoming semester.
The Crypt needs ghosts. Nuff said.
Sontra Wednesday March 28th, 2001 12:24:28 AM
Sontra looks at the notices and looks torn. "Emergency Pay... Blood Gladiator... Flying Pig?" He looks towards those who are his 'friends'. "Any of ye decided? I would be well to be with some of those whom I know... even only slightly. The Gladiator School looks good, but the Flying Pig needs a Bartender... and I can do that..."
Roger d10=10 Wednesday March 28th, 2001 12:59:00 AM
"I think it is whether we all want to work together or not. Or we could work in shifts at one place (all of us), and then splinter off according to your tastes."
Steps (aka Draax) Wednesday March 28th, 2001 8:41:09 AM
"The 'Beer and Bath' sounds good to me Greeley." Steps goes over a takes a look at the posting. "OK, let's do it." He waits to see what the others are going to pick, before heading over to the 'Beer and Bath' with Greeley.
Harry (Damocles) Wednesday March 28th, 2001 1:15:44 PM
"Crypt needs ghosts? Wunder wot that means. Anyone else want to look into that with me?" The young actor makes some spooky noises. "Boo..." He cackles momentarily and then continues in an eerie voice. "I am the ghost of the crypt... muahahaha," before laughing a bit. "I suppose I would need to work on the act."
Tamosvar Wednesday March 28th, 2001 11:12:29 PM
"Well I think I could make at least a decent ghost, shall we go take a look to see what it exactly entails, my good fellow?"
Whither or Thither (DM Jerry) Thursday March 29th, 2001 1:53:04 AM
Steps and Greeley are talking of visiting the Beer & Bath. While Harry and Tamosvar seem to initially favor the Crypt.
Roger instead focuses on the strategy end of things. He suggests that the heroes need to decide whether to work together or separately.
Steps Thursday March 29th, 2001 4:11:10 PM
Steps looks over at Roger. "OK Roger, you are suggesting that we all work in the same place. That seems like a wise plan. How about if me and Greeley go and check out the Beer and Bath? Get information about what is required of the job, how much it pays, and how many workers they can hire. Harry and someone else can go to the crypt and find out the same information. Others can come with either group or check out another job."
Steps looks at everyone to get their reaction. "We can all meet back here tonight, put our information together, and vote on the job that we will choose. How does that sound to everyone?"
Sontra Thursday March 29th, 2001 8:40:46 PM
Sontra heads off to the Flying Pig. Alone and wondering what shall become of him and his friends. "Alone we were, but friends we are, We have traveled long and far.
Together we shall be as one, To be the best might under the sun." His hands sweat, and he goes of into the shadows and places a little bit more make-up on them. Just to be sure.
Greeley Thursday March 29th, 2001 8:51:33 PM
"OK Steps. We'll meet back here in about an hour then. Let's go." The mage heads off with his friend. "I think we'll need to stop and find directions." Chuckling at their choice of direction. "You think this is the way to start?"
Shopping for jobs in disguise (DM Jerry) Thursday March 29th, 2001 9:57:26 PM
So our brave heroes split up to check out their opportunities for "mundane" employment.
Sontra's trip to the Flying Pig will occur here for your reading enjoyment.
Those going to the Beer and Bath and the Crypt will be handled either by email or chat and then posted here. :)
Sontra asks directions and receives them. He is directed to Circus Quarter just east of Scalzo's Circus House on Centaur Street. The area is just south of Dragon Quarter and Adventurer's Square and just north of the Endless River.
When Sontra arrives, he sees a 2-story beat up building. The placard of a flying pig has been scratched up and a crude drawing of a monkey has been etched over it.
Inside, is the most horrible beat up place that Sontra has ever seen. Tables are nailed together. In fact the common room has a couple of carpenters putting a few tables back together. It is full of patrons though and all are drinking!
A snot nosed wart faced female dwarf comes to him and says, "Have a table bub."
Roger Thursday March 29th, 2001 10:00:26 PM
"Yes, let's scout what these places offer, and what they are like, and the temperament of the people in the place. You might also take time to study the patrons, to see if we're going to be able to get any information or not.
"We are looking for a place that probably has a mix of people, from all classes, and all walks of life.
"Do we want to meet back here, or back back to the RWI, where we can talk in private?!"
Sontra Thursday March 29th, 2001 10:34:26 PM
Sontra smiles. "Well... I was expecting... something... oh never mind. That's too Sunblazely." He sits. "I'm here about the jobs!" His voice is loud and growly.
Harry Friday March 30th, 2001 1:58:51 AM
"Well then, I'm off to the crypts... anyone want to come up with me? If you can keep pace, that is," says Harry.
He skips off at a steady pace, turning back to the gathered group. "Well, any other would-be actors want to play the ghost for some coin?"
Tamosvar Friday March 30th, 2001 6:12:02 AM
"Aye friend I'll come with ye to the Crypts, don't worry fellows we'll find out all there is to know about this opportunity."
Wartti (Waitress of the Flying Pig) (DM Jerry) Friday March 30th, 2001 6:32:33 PM
"We got two. One for bartender, one for bouncer. But before I sends ya back to see the Chief Pig so to speak, I needs to know somethin'.
"Do you believe that pigs can fly?"
Sontra Saturday March 31st, 2001 3:23:19 PM
Sontra, about already decided about this place thinks for a moment. 'These people must be either insane, or just be extremely poor...' He looks up at the waitress. "Eh? Pigs can fly, in many different ways. They can - I'd show you - but alas, magic escapes me." He smiles faintly. "So, do I get to see him or not?" He asks pressingly.
Warrti (DM Jerry) Monday April 2nd, 2001 1:20:16 PM
"No magic needed mister. Just a drink of this."
"One for table 4!"
One for Table 4 (DM Jerry) Monday April 2nd, 2001 1:25:22 PM
A voice says, "One for table 4 coming up."
The whole bar gets quiet for a second and then suddenly you find yourself surrounded by everyone in the place. And all of them begin chanting:
"PIG! PIG! PIG! PIG! PIG! PIG!..." over and over again. This seems to be the signal for others to also order this strange drink. It comes. It is pink. It smells horrible. Three others join you.
"To Pigs that Fly!"
And the crowd answers, "And Monkeys that don't!"
::everyone spits::
Then the three of them look to you and one says, "On 3."
1......2.......3.
They down their drinks. Everyone looks at Sontra to see if he does the same.
Sontra Monday April 2nd, 2001 7:09:35 PM
Sontra, on three downs it. He wonders what exactly is in it. He slams the glass down on the table and yells. "GIMME ANOTHER!" He looks around, hoping he did what he should have. "Wow, good stuffs..."
Flying Pig (DM Jerry) Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 10:12:40 AM
Suddenly the chant grows in volume....or is it the drink."
"Pig! Pig! Pig! Pig!"
Your fellow drinkers rise to their feet. You feel all warm inside. Then it hits you. Dizzy, yet all-powerful. You could take on the world! You could slay Flame the Dragon with a dagger! You could....
Wait, where is this that your new friends are leading you? Up the stairs? To The Balcony? To the broken spot in the balcony? And what's that happening down below? People gathered around a table like it's a trampoline?
Your first friend yells "YAAAHHHHHHHH!" and dives off of the balcony onto the table. The table breaks in to halves and everyone holding it steady crashes to the floor. Your new friend lies unmoving.
Then a few seconds later he slowly gets up, swipes the dust off of him from the dirty floor and yells. "Pigs Fly!"
Everyone screams.
You feel the electricity in the room. The excitement is becoming a part of you. A new table (well an old one nailed back together) is brought into the landing area.
Everyone looks at you.
"Pig! Pig! Pig! Pig!"
You may give into the feeling and jump, or you may try a saving throw of will with a DC of 22 if you wish not to jump (and disappoint your new friends.)
Sontra Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 11:19:36 PM
Sontra throws himself down, the whole time yelling. "PIG PIG." He hits the table violently, without realizing what has happened he gets up and starts to yell to the next person. "PIG PIG PIG PIG..." His words are slurred together, back in his mind he can hear Sunblaze saying. 'Gunna feel that in the morning.' Sontra not thinking he missed the table starts to bring another one over, he places it half on top of the first. He then finds a seat with a drink at it and start to guzzle it down. "PIG...PUG...BLOOB."
Warrti (DM Jerry) Wednesday April 4th, 2001 10:37:30 AM
"So, what do your skills lie? Bartender or bouncer?"
"I think maybe weze has job for the likes of a pig like you!"
Sontra Wednesday April 4th, 2001 7:14:38 PM
"Bartemders my game... I mean bardener... Oh nevermind you know what I mean." He hiccups a couple of times. "I just checking... not sure yet..." He decides to sit down, in a stable spot although the room is spinning.
Steps Wednesday April 4th, 2001 11:02:39 PM
Having completed his job interview Steps heads to the RWI to meet the others. He keeps looking around for Greeley wondering where he disappeared to.
Steps' Adventure (DM Jerry) Wednesday April 4th, 2001 11:19:43 PM
Getting There (DM Jerry)
Steps asks around and get instructions to the establishment. It is in a prime location and looks to be a very new building. It is in Adventurer's Square on the very northern end. Just south of it is Finlon Vod's Party House. North of it is the courtyard just inside Adventurer's Gate.
Inside is a wetbar to the right that flows past a few tables down into an indoor pool with a waterfall pouring into it. The water swirls and smells great. There are stairs leading up on either side of the waterfall to private bathing rooms above. A staircase behind the waterfall leads down to the lower level where there is storage, and more private areas.
A slightly plump woman sits at the bar doing books. Without looking up she says, "We're closed. Sorry. Hope to be open in a few days."
--------
Steps:
Steps calls out before the woman turns around. "Excuse me, we hear that there are openings for jobs. My friend and I are here to see it about the postings that we read."
He waits to see if the woman replies.
---------
Glint In Her Eye (DM Jerry)
The woman slowly turns. "You must have lost your friend on the way mister. I see no one but you. Why do you want to work here at the B&B? Why does it intrigue you?"
She has a glint in her eye that says she is appraising you like she would a diamond or a ruby.
Then as she finishes turning, you realize that the coat that she wears makes her look overweight, when actually she is quite the looker. Perhaps older than some men desire, but a timeless beauty nonetheless.
She wears a diamond necklace and a matching bracelet. She has on a fashionable bathing suit under her white wolven fur coat.
--------
Steps looks around for Greeley and then remembers the ring that his friend wears, but he wonders why his friend would use its power now. He shrugs his shoulders as to say 'Oh well.'
He turns back to the woman. "My friend must have gotten loss along the way. I was at the job posting board with a few other job seekers and saw your posting about job openings. I am in need of a job at the moment, so I thought that I would come and see what is required of the job and to see if I meet those requirements.
I have to admit that I do not know much about the 'Beer and Bath' but I am a quick learner. I think that I could be a good bouncer or stock guy, and I know a few others who may need a job if they have not found one already."
Steps looks at the woman and lets his appreciation of her beauty show on his face. "Well miss are you hire? If you are, what are the job requirements and pay?"
---------
Checking out the Meat (DM Jerry)
"Hmm...."
She gets up and walks around you as if inspecting a piece of meat. She squeezes your muscles. "Bouncer pays more. We don't use stock boys as such here. We, instead have need of 'waiters and waitresses' who carry drinks and bathing items to the various rooms as well as 'preparation staff' who prepare the baths and clean up after each visitor. They keep the water smelling and feeling good, and add the idiosyncracies to each theme room.
"The scale is high, because I want the best.
"Bartender: 200gp a month Bouncer: 150gp a month Toter: 75gp a month Preparation Staff: 50gp a month.
"All this is in addition to tips and overtime.
"As I'm in need of workers in a hurry to get this place open again before the owners come a fussin' about me firing the previous staff, I'll give you a try. If you work hard and well I'll keep you. I'll let you know it's permanent in a week.
"You start now. Your first job is to find me more staff. Hit the bars and the streets. Find me 2 bartenders, one more bouncer for the hours that you are not working (we are open dawn until way past midnight most days), 6 toters/waitresses/waiters, and at least 10 preparation staff. We could use more.
"I'll give you half a week's salary of the position concerned for each person you hire. Find me a bouncer and I'll give you half a bouncer's salary for a week.
"I am Chenna. It is good to meet you." :)
-------------
Steps:
Steps smiles to himself, glad that he did not change his height and structure with the hat of disguise, knowing that when she touched him it would have defeated his disguise. "Nice to meet you Chenna, you can call me Steps. That is a lot of workers, but I did see a few other job seekers at the posting board and I am sure that I can track down a few of them down and maybe some others. I will bring or send to you all that I find and I will report back to you daily with a progress report. Thank you for the opportunity."
Steps gives her another appreciative look and says "Again, it was nice looking I mean meeting you."
Step goes back to the meeting place to give the others the news.
----------
Sedar and Bill say Goodbye (DM Jerry) Wednesday April 4th, 2001 11:27:55 PM
Two hooded figures approach the table in the Red Wyrm Inn.
Bill's voice speaks.
"We just wanted you to know. We've been recruited by ah 'Mr. M.' to handle a special mission. We'll be gone for awhile. We hope to see you soon."
Sedar says, "We wanted to say bye in person. If anyone asks you didn't see us. We were not ever here. We are supposed to just disappear, but we couldn't do that to you guys. You are to find two new people to take our places as if we quit or died or something. We'll leave that to you. Tell them everything, but make sure that for your sake that they take the oath with Oratai at the Temple of Truth. She is expecting you within the next day or so with your new recruits."
Bill says, "Wow, but this is all so exciting and stuff. I can't wait to tell you all about it. It's very cool."
Sedar says, "Ok, we gotta go. See you guys soon. Good luck!"
They walk off. As they leave, Bill says, "See, I told you they wouldn't be mad."
Sedar says, "Just wait. They will be."
Sontra d100=64 Wednesday April 4th, 2001 11:28:24 PM
Sontra looks at whomever is talking to him. He seems to have forgotten, it's as if he just became sober. "...I need to know... how much do the jobs... pay... and do you need more wokrer... worrieirs... WORKERS!" He shouts, the voice is odd for a moment then back. Once he has gotten the information he trudges slowly to the door, still not feeling well, looks in his haversack, then thinks 'Waterskin'. There it is. He grabs it, and drinks it down, in an effort to feel... unqueazy.
Draax Thursday April 5th, 2001 10:45:28 PM
Draax listens to Bill and Sedar. "OK guys, do what you have to do, stay safe, and hopefully we will all survive long enough to work together again." Draax shakes both of their hands in farewell.
Wartti (DM Jerry) Thursday April 5th, 2001 11:00:47 PM
"Just a bartender and a bouncer. It pays 5 gold a week. Bouncer 10. Why, got a friend?"
Sontra Thursday April 5th, 2001 11:26:13 PM
Sontra looks up. "Friends...yah...got lots...but a few might wanna have the job." He smiles and heads back to his friends, sweat dripping down his face, he goes down the wrong ally a few times. Finally she appears back at her friends. She looks like she had too much to drink. She tries to sit, twice, both failing so she decides to stand.
"Good...plece...oplace...place..." Finally it comes out right. "But two...joubs...and drimking..." She shouts out. "ARGGGGGGGG!" Her voice is slurred.
Comparing Results (DM Jerry) Monday April 9th, 2001 11:54:29 AM
Two of the three groups return to the sign board where the others await them. Those who went to the Crypt also finally return. (I couldn't wait on posts from the Crypt people any longer so I'm moving ahead. Those people very slow in posting so I'm making an arbitrary decision here...)
Those going to the crypt report that it is a den for thieves and what not, which would not be so bad, but it would take some doing to get in there and work your way into their trust. If we do go with this option we're looking at weeks or months before they'd trust us enough to hire us. The place is full of secrets and a feeling of evil and darkness. Twould be a difficult cover.
Our brave heroes in disguise now sit and discuss their results and which jobs they should persue while awaiting the return of the final group. Read on brave reader and see where the group decides to work while they are in disguise.
Sontra Monday April 9th, 2001 8:32:27 PM
Sontra looks at the group for a moment. "We're NOT working there! Horrible place, and the drinks..." He tails off, not saying much more than odd words put together. Slurry and slow, that's how he speaks throughout the entire thing, making it quite boring. "Whatcha find? Goodness?"
Steps Monday April 9th, 2001 9:16:34 PM
Steps looks at the group and in a soft voice, but loud enough for everyone to hear he says, "The Beer & Bath may be what we are looking for. They are in need of workers right away. I took on the job of a bouncer and they still need the following:
"Two bartenders, another bouncer for the hours that I do not work, they are open from dawn until past midnight, six toters/waitresses/waiters, and ten or more preparation staff.
"Bartender: 200gp a month, Bouncer: 150gp a month, Toter: 75gp a month, Preparation Staff: 50gp a month. In addition to tips and overtime.
"So, if we all take the jobs, we will still need to find a few others who are not in our group and I think that our mutual friend may be able to help us find a few people to fill the additional position.
"So what do you guys think? If you agree, pick the job that you want and I can take each of you there two at a time so that she does not see us as a group."
Steps waits to see what the others say.
Roger Tuesday April 10th, 2001 8:39:50 AM
"I think the Beer and Bath would work fine. I imagine that I could be the other bouncer."
Sontra Tuesday April 10th, 2001 10:28:27 AM
Sontra laughes. "Me barntedner....well, the drink person..." He looks at his friends. "Gave me big drink, lots of alchol...scary..." Sweat is on his face, and he seems to have a brusied spot down his arm.
What Shall We Be? (DM Jerry) Tuesday April 10th, 2001 10:57:00 AM
Our courageous spies to be are making the important decision of what their cover in real life shall be. It appears that they are close to their decision. May they choose well.
Harry Tuesday April 10th, 2001 5:27:32 PM
"Beer and bath sounds like it'd be good rates.. I don't know what position I'd take. But I'm sure the gods will provide." Harry looks a bit worried. "I don't know about this whole situation though."
Sontra Tuesday April 10th, 2001 7:17:23 PM
Sontra throws some water on his face and seems to sober up. "I feel very much the same, I think we are being set up here...But by whom I am not sure of. Many people could be doing it, and we are not even sure if we are being thrown into horrible places." He looks around for a moment. "I suggest we watch ourselves for the next little while, enemies are many, and friends are few in times like these."
Steps Tuesday April 10th, 2001 10:27:58 PM
Steps listens to the others and then begins to think to himself for a minutes.
"If we are being set up, I hope it is by the good guys, because if it is by our enemies, that would mean that they know who we are and it would be a waste of time to go around looking like we do. Like Sontra say we need to be watchful."
Steps pauses for a second and then continues.
"Back to work, I agree that it would have been better to have more than one choice for employment where we all could have worked together, but the woman that hired me seems to really be in need of workers right away and if it is a set up they did a good job.
If you do not know what job you would like we can let the employer decide. She will give those that she hires a week to prove that they can do the job. The only problem that I see is that she needs a lot more people and we need those same people, so if we do need to be absent for some reason or another, we will not be missed. "
Steps looks at each of the members at the table.
"I can take a few of you to the place and the rest of you can go there on your own or I can take everyone at the same time or different times, because she did tell me to go out and find some more help. However, when we do this I think that we should at least stay in groups of two or more, so that it does not look strange to our new employer that some of us may need leave work at the same time if the need arises."
Sontra Tuesday April 10th, 2001 10:59:25 PM
Sontra looks at Steps. "I shall return with you. A bartender will be good for me, as I have had to sell some drinks in my time..." He smiles, and sets the waterskin back in his bag.
"If nobody else comes with us, then you shall have to stick together, and we don't want to lose anyone... Like we did Bill, although I'm sure he's ok..." He grabs from his side his dagger. "Take this, on it you shall find names, they only come under the moonlight, but if we ever get split up, please tell these people if I am gone. They shall find me..." She smiles and hands it to anyone who isn't going with them.
Tamosvar Wednesday April 11th, 2001 12:03:40 AM
"I find that the bartender often learn things of interest from those they serve, since I am in the market of interesting knowledge I would like the other bartending job."
Roger Wednesday April 11th, 2001 2:11:21 AM
"I think at least one or two of us should probably approach her on our own. In order to give her someone else to confide in. I do not think we want to overwhelm her with people that might be loyal to Steps, instead of her"
Being Set Up (DM Jerry) Wednesday April 11th, 2001 1:35:05 PM
A voice from behind you says, "Of course you've been set up. But by a friend."
A sound of hoof on cobbles can be heard. A nearby wagon rises as a considerable weight steps down from it.
Then materializing from thin air is a Minotaur. He is over 8 feet tall and carries himself as a warrior. He also carries a holy symbol of Domi.
"I am Bull. I set you up."
Sontra Wednesday April 11th, 2001 11:27:59 PM
Sontra turns quickly, eyes on the creature. Muttering under his breath. "And we know you're a good guy because?"
Sontra's eyes fall apon the symbol of Domi. "A follower? Or a fake?" He pulls his severely magical sword from his side and looks prepared to fight, if needed.
Roger Thursday April 12th, 2001 7:11:11 AM
Roger quickly turns towards the Minotaur. He sizes up the Minotaur, and quickly swallows anything he might have had to say. Quickly, Roger look around the rest of the area, within the wagon (as best he can), to determine whether the Minotaur is acting alone. While looking around, Roger backs up, or situates himself so that he has enough room for combat, if it should arise.
Steps Thursday April 12th, 2001 8:46:47 AM
Steps looks at both Tamosvar and Sontra. "Ok, that takes care of the bartenders. Roger can go talk to the woman on your own and decide what job you would like from her. It would also be nice to see if she tells you the same things she told me."
As the Minotaur speaks and then appears, Steps looks up and just shakes his head. "I knew something weird would have to happen. Things were going normal for a little too long."
To the Minotaur he says. "As my friend said. "What makes you the good guy? How are you setting us up? And you say your name's Bull, is that suppose to mean something to us?"
The disguised half-elf says everything in a calm voice, but he is ready to spring into action if needed.
"And most important," he says with a smile, "eavesdropping on a private conversation is not polite."
Harry Thursday April 12th, 2001 2:26:29 PM
"Hey kip," says Harry to Bull. "How're you doing bout these parts? Locals treat you well? Haven't seen your like around these parts, but doesn't surprise me anymore." He extends his hands.
"I'll give you benny of the doubt, even if these chaps won't. What can I do you for? Or what can you do for me?"
Tamosvar Friday April 13th, 2001 6:32:53 AM
When the minotaur appears Tamosvar's eyes widen a moment in surprise before he readies himself for combat if need be. He stands there arms negligently hanging by his side but there is an impression of an explosion of movement ready to burst into being at anytime.
Bull (DM Jerry) Friday April 13th, 2001 8:50:06 AM
Bull watches the various responses to his appearance closely appraising the group.
After an appropriate dramatic pause, he pulls a satchel off of his shoulder and lays it on the ground.
"Inside this satchel is a scroll of Detect Lie, Detect Invisibility, and the signet ring of Marcus along with his password. I'll need the ring back."
He looks around the area as if for something specific.
"I was part of a now defunct group named The Grey. We worked for Marcus as you do now. The Loot & Booty was built by us and is still owned by us. Chenna now manages it for us in a blind trust. She knows me as a customer, but knows not that I be one of her secret owners. I saw that the wickedness of the staff was exposed in such a way as to cause her to fire the staff. She had been instructed to fire the whole staff if corruption was discovered within the staff.
"I did this as a last favor to Marcus to help you get a cover job where you could remain together for mutual protection and secrecy. So of course, I watched to see that you made the correct choice for a place of employment. When you correctly saw through the obvious hole in my plans--that this job was just too easy--I came forward. Otherwise, you would not ever trust your cover. Now all you have to overcome is your mistrust of me. Thus the items in the satchel.
"Your plans for going for positions separately is well thought out. I do suggest that you all get on the same shift if possible so that you are all available at the same times of day to meet your responsibilities to Marcus and the HLM.
"So do your magics and satisfy your curiosity and skepticism. Then do not approach or talk to me again about such things. I will be outside of the loop. As I said, this should be my last act for Marcus.
"I await your ministrations."
Sontra d20+9=14 d20+9=24 d20+9=24 d20+9=13 d20+9=11 Friday April 13th, 2001 12:47:11 PM
(OOC: Sorry the rolls are an act of hitting the wrong box, and typing.)
IC: Sontra picks up the satchel and looks through it. Once satisfied that these items are what Bull says he pulls out the Detect Lie Scroll. "This shall help us now... unless it is a one use..." Sontra looks at his friends. "We can trust you? Well I shall put my hand forward, but I shall find out your true intentions." He walks over to Bull, completely interested. "Minotaur you say? I wish I could have met you under better conditions. We could have been good friends." He seems giddy at the sight of this 'Taur'. "Perhaps you could tell me about Minotaurs later, for I would love to find out more about you..."
Roger Friday April 13th, 2001 1:27:09 PM
Eyeing the Minotaur, Roger makes sure to get an eyeful of the signet ring, to ensure it belongs to the suggested owner. After seeing the ring and verifying the owner, Roger will then ask, "Would you prefer these questions asked here on the street, or would you prefer to move to a more private spot? So we can not be blamed for any eavesdropping that might take place."
Harry Friday April 13th, 2001 2:31:17 PM
"Well, sounds good to me." Harry nods to the Taur. "So shall we all just show up at once? Rather than go piecemeal? This job is the only way to go, I think, so whoever found the work first should lead the rest of us to them, right?"
Steps Friday April 13th, 2001 9:52:51 PM
Steps waits to see if the Minotaur has any suggestions. Steps looks the ring over thoroughly and then nods his head, satisfied that it is original.
"OK Bull, I am convinced and thanks for clearing up the mystery about the job and for your advice. While you are here maybe you can help with the filling of the other positions at the Beer and Bath. I would like to be able to bring her more workers than those gathered here and I would prefer that more workers outside of the loop apply on their own. Being new to the city I would not know where to find these workers."
Steps waits to see if the Minotaur has any suggestions.
Tamosvar Sunday April 15th, 2001 5:49:59 PM
After seeing that the Minotaur was friendly Tamosvar relaxes and lets the rest of the party ask the questions. Instead he makes a slow circuit about the group making sure that no ones grows too interested in them.
Bull (DM Jerry) Monday April 16th, 2001 11:38:30 PM
"These advertisements should suffice to bring in others also. Good work is hard to find."
"Otherwise you seem to have things in hand. It appears my final favor for Marcus is complete. Good luck. I have a dragon to consult. Farewell."
He turns walks down the street and dissappears.
We got Jobs! (DM Jerry) Monday April 16th, 2001 11:44:12 PM
One by one, two by two, our brave spies approach the Beer & Bath and obtain jobs from Chenna.
[please post your selected job in your next post.]
The jobs are for Bouncer, bartender, reservation desk, and a sortie of waiters and water toters.
The rest of the day is spent working hard preparing the B&B for reopening, training in your new occupations, etc.
[You have the freedom here to freelance a bit about your new duties and tell an anecdote of something that happened the first day of work.]
Harry Tuesday April 17th, 2001 3:20:24 AM
Harry signs on to work the front desk, knowing that he'll be better in a role where he gets to meet a good number of people than he will putting together those bitter, nasty alcoholic drinks (he is, after all, a moralistic Brother at heart).
((will continue later. 3:30 AM here... creative juice is dying))
Sontra Tuesday April 17th, 2001 6:15:35 PM
Sontra taking the only job where he would fit with experience, The Bartender. He got into it quickly, and tried to make friends with any others around him. Trying to find who he could trust.
Sontra on the first day figured how to set drinks on fire for show, and got caught on fire himself. He ran and rolled around for a little while. He got back up and tried it again, this time succeding, although it took a while before anyone would get near him doing it.
Sontra spent alot of his spare time exploring the bar, getting to know it inside out, and then everything in between. Although he hasn't had alot of time, he has enough to know how to escape if needed without the front door.
Harry (cont.) Wednesday April 18th, 2001 3:38:54 AM
After dealing with a few pernicious customers who demanded more service than he could give them (subtly, Harry reminded himself as he carried the eight cart of food to the man on the second floor, "The customer is always right"), Harry called it a day. He handed over his key to the night clerk and moved off into the streets, waiting for the others to finish their shifts.
When they began to pour out he commented, "Well... should we all board together since we all work together? Or shall we find separate places to hang our hats?"
Room and Board (DM Jerry) Wednesday April 18th, 2001 11:03:29 AM
Harry is pleasantly surprised to find that the top floor is for staff lodgings. There are a set of apartments designed to house two bunkmates per room. A common room is for socialization, cooking and shared restrooms.
Sontra does not find a secret exit from the bar. The nearest one would be the staircase heading down or simply diving into the big pool that bumps up against your bar making part of it a wet bar.
Roger Wednesday April 18th, 2001 1:33:34 PM
Roger applies, and picks up the job as bouncer. For his first day, he works on learning who the staff are. Where supplies are, and helps out with moving some of the bigger and heavier pieces of inventory.
Whenever Roger is not actively engaged in moving items, he does his best to keep an eye, and respond to any customers that might be over enthusiastic about getting to know the staff, or any other customers.
DM Jerry Thursday April 19th, 2001 5:16:00 AM
[Due to my late post yesterday, I'll wait until tonight for the rest of you to have a chance to post.]
Harry Thursday April 19th, 2001 4:23:57 PM
Harry drags himself up the stairs, slowly, and into his own room. He offers up a short prayer to Alemi, quietly, before returning out to the common room to wash and eat a quick bite before he goes to sleep. He remains mainly silent to everyone else, but notes that if needed, they know where to find him. He seems exhausted, as if this were one of the first days of truly difficult labor he's ever gone through.
Steps Thursday April 19th, 2001 6:35:17 PM
Steps enjoys his job as one of the establishment's bouncers. He keeps an eye on the door, being polite to all the customer even as he escorts a few out. As he throws one drunken customer out he says in a calm voice. "Please come back again."
It's Time....but for what? (DM Jerry) Thursday April 19th, 2001 9:23:21 PM
As the party settles to relax a bit in the late hours, a man enters the bar as it is closing. He approaches Steps.
"I'm looking for a job."
He grins and shows the sign of Marcus.
[This is Carl's entrance. I'll leave it to him to continue the conversation and describe himself]
Back in the common room, an owl flies into Harry's private room and holds his leg out.
The note reads, "Good hunting tonight. I need to know the source of those fliers. Be careful.
Also, I am sending you a new potential member. He is trustworthy. He carries my sign."
It is signed with Marcus' seal.
Sunblaze Thursday April 19th, 2001 10:09:28 PM
(OOC: Sorry about the not posting, it seemed repeating every time I tried.) Sontra looks at the newcomer with a smile. Then she signals a waiter. "Find out what he wants, please... say it's on me..." Sontra grabs a glass and cleans it up, making sure it's nice. She then looks to (Carl?) with a moan. "Great... another guy..."
DM Jerry (Jerry) Thursday April 19th, 2001 11:18:15 PM
Because of the confusion of having two names for our characters (alias and real) plus adding the new folk, I want everyone to put their first name in parenthesis after their character name. If you are posting for your alias, do it like this:
Alias Tamsuar (i.e. Arien) [Adam]
Otherwise just:
Arien [Adam]
This will help us to get used to all the name stuff...I hope.
Tamosvar (i.e. Arien) [Adam] Friday April 20th, 2001 2:03:46 AM
While not having any major accidents during his first few days of training as a bartender the hot headed elf does almost skewer some of the more annoying patrons. Only the fact that he didn't wear his rapier into the bar room and the realization that stabbing customers would probably get him fired, although he was never quite sure with the way these humans acted at times. Despite these troubles the first few days went rather smoothly and Tamosvar eventually learned to subliminate most of what the patrons said beyond their orders for more drinks.
Alias Gullion (Carl) Friday April 20th, 2001 7:20:59 AM
The man who grins up at Steps is a short, stooped fellow, who might have once been healthy, but is now florid of face and running to fat. His skin is mottled, and shows evidence of a bout of the pox at some time in the past. His hands shake a little, as if he has spent too much of his time at the bottle. His lank, greasy black hair is plastered to his scalp, and a beaded cap (which has seen far better days) is perched upon his head. His face wears an ingratiating grin, which parts to reveal unhealthy looking teeth and worrisome breath. He is clad in a grubby embroidered robe of indeterminate colour, that like his cap is showing its age. His shoes are red, and have long, pointy toes. He gives the impression of a friendly, worn out and slightly pot-bellied weasel.
Gullion swiftly tucks Marcus' sign back up his baggy sleeve. As he does so the hilt of an ornate dagger is momentarily visible. He smiles leerily at Sunblaze, and bows. "The pleasure is all mine, m'dear."
He turns back to Steps. "Now I happen to know for a fact that the last fella who served nibbles and treats for the clientelle of this fine establishment was run out of the joint when it turned out his Exotic Eastern Kebabs were actually Rat on a Stick. An' that, sadly, is depriving your poor payin' customers of the opportunity of sampling some o' the finest wares this side of Ilthmar."
He grins again, and with a flourish reveals a tray that had somehow been tucked under his robes. "Ladies an'Gents, may I offer for yer delectation an' appreciation, Gullion's Tray of Multitoodinous Delights!" He coughs unpleasantly, hawks up a gob of flem, and spits it noisily into the cobbles.
Upon close inspection the tray seems to hold a bewildering assortment of snacks, powders, herbs, unidentifiable objects and assorted bric-a-brac. Upon even closer inspection the astute observer will note the stuff is all junk, but Gullion never seems to shut up long enough to make closer inpection possible.
"Yessir, Gullion will provide items of exotica to clients of taste, an' provide a friendly ear to those with troubles an' woes. An' of course half me profits will go to the House. Well, I guess you'd better introduce me to me fellow workers, eh fella?"
Roger (Rond) ((Todd)) Friday April 20th, 2001 9:37:51 PM
Having never done table a waiting before, Roger is surprised to seem to have a knack for balancing things, and to carry them to the table. The first couple of days go a little slow, as Roger gets use to where everything is. But over time, he starts to serve up quite a storm.
Water Toter or bust (DM Jerry) Friday April 20th, 2001 9:46:58 PM
Channa the owner saunters over to this new applicant.
"Sir Gullion I don't sublet within the establishment that I manage. That would cut into my profits. However, if you're willing to clean up, we need water toters to empty and fill the baths. If you show talent, we'll let you perfume them too. Sound exciting? I'll pay you 25gp a week plus tips."
"Sir Steps, please close up the building for the evening. I'm going home." She leaves, living in her own apartment elsewhere.
In the meantime, the group begins to gather in the common room to discus how best to find the source of the magical fliers that Marcus had shown them.
It's nighttime... time for aliases to be dropped and for the true spies to emerge. Watch carefully! They blend with the shadows and work the thankless tasks that keep the kingdom great.
So let's get to it. The first task at hand, is to find the source behind the magical fliers that seem to be charming the readers. The flyers say, "The end of The Wold is near."
Marcus said that those who succumb to the charm hear an additional command to: "Come on the night of the full moon to the Arena for an important meeting which may just save your soul from the awful things to come."
[It's been a while getting to the point, but this is it my friends. Let's get to Marcus' task.]
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Steve] Friday April 20th, 2001 10:18:14 PM
Sontra knows his job has been finished for now at the bar, and cleans up. He sets himself up to go. He gets the others and with a smile sets off. "I believe we have about 7 days until the full moon... I have already gotten this message, so I know what it was like. We might want to all go visit the arena and see if we can dig up any clues as to who is planting these fliers, but keep your hands on your blades and spellbooks, for I have a feeling that we're in for a wild ride." She goes over to the door and is about to open it, waiting for any last comments.
Harry (Damocles) [Dave] Saturday April 21st, 2001 12:29:07 AM
"I'll go with you Su... Sontra... I'm afraid I'm not the bluffer that you are and will need someone else to do the talking for me," says Harry, as he exits his room, wearing a normal looking outfit, drab browns and greens, and a long, flowing cloak... He seems to be moving with an uneasy step, although his speed is unaffected, his step is off. Odd... The large mace at his side indicates that he's ready for business.
Alias Gullion (Renik) (Carl) Saturday April 21st, 2001 10:53:31 AM
At Chenna's words Gullion's face splits into a grin. "Water toter? That's three promotions up from Nibble Salesman!" Aside to Sontra he whispers, "And the pay is tenfold!" Back to Chenna; "Boss, I accept! You've just found yerself the finest Water Toter in Yrth's Peninsula! Why, my old Dad, bless his dear departed soul, spent his whole life aiming to be a Water Toter. Never made it higher than Human Waste Shoveller, I'm afraid, but them's the breaks. An' truth be told, he was a right idle bugger." He grins round at the assembled group, and continues rambling in this vein until Chenna departs.
Once she leaves, Gullion smiles at the group, retrieves a sack stashed at the entrance to the Beer and Bath, then vanishes for several moments into the nearest washroom.
The figure that emerges is quite unlike the hunched, half-crippled individual who entered. It is a slender man of average height, graceful and agile, good looking in an angular sort of way. In his movements, face and eyes he gives the impression of being alert and quick witted. He is pale skinned and clear eyed, and his hair is shoulder length, brown, and wet from washing. He is dressed for nocturnal city life; black calf length boots, grey trousers, dark grey shirt, black doublet. Over this he wears exquisitely made black leather armour, studded with black iron rivets. At his side he carries a rapier, and on his belt an ornate dagger, along with a buckler on his left arm. This matches the armour, and is black, expertly made, and studded.
He pulls on a long grey cloak, and introduces himself. "Companions, my name is Renik Dacour, and I, like you, have been charged with a mission by our mutual benefactor. We all know what we must do, and I will speak of it further now. One can never be too careful. I apologise for my somewhat colorful alter-ego, but it occurred to me that in a guise such as that I might perform information gathering even whilst in disguise, without attracting undue suspicion."
His jaw sets firmly, and he continues, "But now the time for disguises is past. If I am to face unknown dangers I will do so as myself."
He looks at the assembled group, and smiles. "We've got a lot to accomplish before the full moon. Shall we get to it?"
Arien [Adam] Saturday April 21st, 2001 4:30:55 PM
Shedding his colorful disguise rather eagerly Arien quickly changes into his old clothes and throws his cloak over his shoulders. Stepping lightly and yet moving quickly the elf seems to glide into the common room and sits with the rest of the party. After listening to the conversation for a bit he interjects, "I say we scout out this arena early so we can get a feel for the place. There also might be some... visitors there that know something about these flyers. But whatever we do we should do it quick, there is little time left to us."
Draax (Steps) (Stan) Saturday April 21st, 2001 7:39:12 PM
Steps greets Gullion/Renik, "Welcome. We can always use more help." After Channa the owner leaves, Steps locks the doors and makes sure that all the windows are secure. As the group gathers in the common room, Steps' human features slowly change into to those of a half-elf. Still wearing the same leather armor as his alias Steps, Draax looks as everyone goes through their transformations.
"Before we begin, everyone please remember to only be seen entering and leaving here as your alias."
Draax listens to the others as he changes into his chain mail, helm, ashen grey cloak, and gathers his shield and weapons.
"I think both Sunblaze and Arien are right, we should scout the place out early and also be there for the event. I do not think that anyone should go alone unless others will get in your way. I think that some of you stealth types should scout the place and a few of us can be near by in case things go awry. We can meet at the inn and make plans on what we find or don't find.
"If no one disagrees, those of you that have already changed complete out of your disguise should leave from the back, one at a time. Those that are still in your disguises or/and can change your disguise magically should leave from the front."
Draax's image shimmers for a second and Steps stands before the group again. He goes to the back, making sure that there is no light, and begins to let out those leaving from the back. After everyone is gone, he locks up the place, goes to an area where he cannot be observed, and changes his image to himself before heading to the arena. As he gets on his way he begins to smile. "Now the fun really begins."
Harry (Damocles) [played by Dave] Monday April 23rd, 2001 12:13:21 PM
"Draax.. um..." The priest sighs his familiar sigh. "It's just that... why should we take off our disguises at all? We're going to be trying to gather information and -- well, it'd be easier to do in disguise, wouldn't it?"
Roger (Rond) ((Todd)) Monday April 23rd, 2001 2:00:41 PM
Listening to the conversation as it unfold. When Draax is done he comments, "I agree. For now, we should start learning the lay of the land, also. So that we can maneuver around as unobtrusively as we can. I wouldn't try anything too sneaky tonight. I'd just try to identify some people or places that we may want to follow up on." Once all conversation dies down, Roger is going to head out the front door. He decides that he's going to go have a drink or two, before heading to bed.
Draax (Steps) [Stan] Monday April 23rd, 2001 7:40:21 PM
"Harry, that really depends on what we will be doing. I would rather not have Steps found breaking into to somewhere, fighting or bringing attention to my alias. If we are going to get down and dirty, I really don't want any customers recognizing Steps as someone they seen causing a commotion. I may be able to look like Steps, but I can only fight like Draax and any good fighter that takes a measure of both may put it together.
But like Roger said, if we are only going to get the lay of the land, we can remain as our alias until we start actually doing things that may bring attention to ourselves.
So, are we going to wait until tomorrow or do some of you still want to check a few things out tonight?"
Draax waits to see if anyone is still going to go sneaking or if everyone is going to retire like Roger did. He will retire with everyone or provide backup.
Bring On The Night (DM Jerry) Monday April 23rd, 2001 10:37:45 PM
Those exiting the building in disguise, use the front entrance. Those exiting out of disguise use the rear entrance.
The group has no problem exiting the building and meeting around in the short alley behind the Beer & Bath that runs from Adventurer's Square to Warriors Lane.
The night is dark. The magical mist that covers Adventurer's Square to the southeast that has been in the news glows in the slight moonlight. This ominous event seems to have quieted the sounds of the night. Your steps on the cobblestones seem loud to your ears. Everything is sharp, distinct. Senses alert.
Bring on the night.
Sontra/Sunblaze [Steven] Monday April 23rd, 2001 11:29:05 PM
Sontra, glad to stretch his legs goes out the front door, meeting at the alley. He watchs around, seeing if more than his friends are there. If not, he takes off his kilt, and Sunblaze's hair grows back, and her features show.
"Ahh, tis a wonderful night... Now to our job... We should split into two groups, on to the arena, the other to search about for the scrolls." She pulls her haversack out of her bag and puts the kilt in. "The ones at the arena should has at least on map maker, so we get to know the lay-out. I shall join that group so I can 'fake' us being travellers or the like if need. Also I could try some spells in spots so that we may be able to use them ahead of time..." She rubs her head, straining for ideas. She looks up and comes to a realization. "I didn't read my scroll!" She rubs her head some more. "Harry... should this happen?"
Renik (Gullion) [Carl} d20+12=31 d20+12=29 Tuesday April 24th, 2001 6:33:22 AM
Renik pulls up the cowl of his hood, so that his face disappears into shadow. Then he slips out of the back door, and silently into the darkness of the alleyway behind the Beer and Bath.
As he joins with his newfound companions he glances nervously at the mist across the square, and the local gossip springs unbidden to mind; "It claims the souls of any who enter it, feeding on them to grow ever larger!" "It sucks flesh from the bones!" "It is a hole in the Wold, sucking our reality away and spewing it out into endless nothing, endlessly consuming until nothing remains!"
These tales are doubtless wild and fanciful fabrication, but here in the dead of night, confronted by the eerily glowing mist, the effect is nonetheless disquieting.
He smiles inwardly at himself. Come Renik, you are a professional, keep your mind on the job! You of all people should not be prey to childish night-fears! He turns his attention to the mission at hand, and nods at Sunblaze's suggestion.
"I concur. The Golden Arena should be examined before the Full Moon. I will join you, Sunblaze. My forte lies in concealment and infiltration, so if you are in agreement I will go first by some 20 to 30 feet, attempting to remain hidden in case we encounter any lookouts or sentries, or other unwelcome attention. Let us decide who is going where, and be off, for the night grows no younger, and," he cannot help mentioning, "the sooner we are away from that accursed mist, the better."
Assuming the others are in agreement, Renik heads off towards the Arena. His planned route is simple. He attempts to avoid busy areas where possible, melting into the shadows and moving slowly, and in total silence. (Hide check 19+12=DC31, Move Silently check 17+12=29) He keeps to the back alleys around the back of the Green Tortoise Club, then comes up the alley alongside it to peer into Warrior's Lane, scanning the area for signs of activity. If all is clear he motions the party forward, and down towards the intersection with Adventurer's End, heading for the path that leads into Gladiator Park.
(DM Jerry) Tuesday April 24th, 2001 11:17:58 AM
(I looked in Duncans Travel Agency under the Continent of Yrth, country of New Elenna, Plateau City, Dragon Quarter: and found that JK has placed Duncan's Travel Agency where the Beer & Bath should be. So when you look on that map, the Beer & Bath is not listed. It should be in the building/location where Duncan's now is. Duncan's should be on the river in Circus or Hindquarter.)
[hint to the wise: stay in one group.]
Draax (Steps) [Stan] Tuesday April 24th, 2001 4:07:07 PM
Feeling the excitement of starting a mission, Draax listens to everyone as they decide which group to join. "I will go with the group looking for scrolls and people carrying scrolls. If anyone is coming with me, just remember not to read the front of the scrolls. I do want to go around chasing chicken people again."
The chuckles as he remembers the last time.
Dave, OOC Tuesday April 24th, 2001 5:25:33 PM
(I'm getting pretty tired of this splitting up business. We're not going to split up. Period. It's too much of an inconvenience to work things that way. Jerry has noted on repeated occasions that we should NOT split up. If the rest of you keep insisting on this course of action... I'm sure consequences will follow)
Arien (Tamosvar) [Adam] Tuesday April 24th, 2001 5:32:55 PM
"Well then if we have two objectives it makes more sense to quickly accomplish one then move onto the other. Splitting a party is never, never, an option. So the real question now is which do we want to do first? We know where the arena is so we could go there first, between the group of us we can easily get an idea of how the layout works there. Then we can spend the rest of the night looking for anyone spreading these flyers."
Should the group decide to go to the Arena first Arien will follow along on the roofs to keep a good look out for anyone wanting to ambush the group.
Organization and a Stranger (DM Jerry) Wednesday April 25th, 2001 12:07:40 AM
Our heroes of the night discuss the value of staying together over the expediency of splitting up. Some take some false starts only to be drawn back into the alley to hear what the others have to say. The conversation continues in whispers and low tones in the shadows outside their back door.
(OOC: Methinks Dave is very wise.)
Renik notices a solitary figure looking into the alley as he begins to leave. The figure enters.
Meanwhile, a solitary figure approaches. He reveals a glowstick which shows, once again, the sign of Marcus and a holy symbol of Wardd. He grins. "I believe that if you can match my sign, I am to join you. The ahem....big "M" apologizes for all the interuptions this evening, but warns that he's sending one more soon." He waits for you to show your matching symbols and then breathes a sigh of relief and introduces himself in low tones."
[this is the introduction for Michael's character. Michael you may now begin posting.]
Adam OOC Wednesday April 25th, 2001 1:16:36 AM
Well after seeing what can happen to split parties and having that warned against in very strong terms by Chris Lindsay over in game 3 when I was just learning the game I too have adopted the "No splitting the party" policy. Unless of course I'm the DM then I just let my evil chuckle warn them that that might not be such a great idea.
Garmik (Alias Mismor) [Michael Tedin] Wednesday April 25th, 2001 2:10:45 AM
Garmik is dressed in non-descript clothing covered by a grey cloak. He brushes his brown hair to the side with his hand and speaks in hushed tones. "I should introduce myself. I am Garmik Bilsch, but you may call me Mismor while at the Beer and Bath. I'm hoping to get hired as a performer there. If not, I can wait tables." Garmik looks around the alley to make sure nobody is watching or eavesdropping. His voice drops lower. "I don't know how far you have gotten in finding the source of these fliers, but I suspect that you have not found much. In any case, I am think we should get away from the back door before we raise suspicions. If we are going to look at the Arena, I am willing to follow. Renik, you seem to know the way. Can you lead?"
Renik (Gullion) [Carl] Wednesday April 25th, 2001 5:10:07 AM
"Welcome Garmik, it is good to have you along. I cannot agree strongly enough that we should depart at once. This is not the place for debate, we are certain to attract attention if we tarry any further. Are we in agreement? We adopt Arien's suggestion? First we head to the Arena, then if there is still time we investigate the flyers. Well then, let's go."
Renik has been growing somewhat impatient with the indecision of the group, and is relieved to get going. He reflects wistfully that such missions are easier to organise when operating solo, but quickly dismisses the thought. Marcus put this group together for a reason, and he suspects that it is because he fears their enemies are dangerous and powerful. No sense in playing the lone wolf under those circumstances.
If the rest are ready, Renik will set off on his previously described route, in the previously described fashion, watching Arien's effortless scaling of sheer walls with a mixture of envy and admiration. Now that's an ability that would come in handy, he thinks.
Harry (Damocles) Wednesday April 25th, 2001 12:24:07 PM
Harry nods to the rest. "It seems that we are going to go to the Arena then, eh? Well, it is always best to know the ground that you are fighting on, possibly, I suppose... But a place like that..." He sighs as he pauses. "It's just that -- there might be people there after hours already, might there not be? Oh dear... I suppose if we are dead set in our ways already..."
Harry begins following ofter Renik, keeping a fair clip, but staying mainly on the streets. He'll try not to attract attention simply by not doing anything out of the ordinary.
(Roger)((Rond))(((Todd))) Wednesday April 25th, 2001 7:03:39 PM
Feeling a bit odd, Rond shivers. Noting the current conversations he comments, "Let's move. Afterwards, we may want to consider some public, noisy place, for discourse."
Sunblaze Wednesday April 25th, 2001 7:43:51 PM
Sunblaze looks at the newcomer with a scowl. "I wish Bill was here instead..." She mumbles. She looks around and sets off towards the Arena with her friends. She holds her head, as she has a splitting head-ache, it seems odd to her. She watches slowly as the new comer walks along. Trying to keep her head up without it hurting.
Garmik (Alias Mismor) [Michael Tedin] d20=7 d20=1 d20=13 Wednesday April 25th, 2001 9:22:53 PM
Garmik notices Sunblaze's apprehension, but says nothing. As the party moves through the streets, Garmik stays to the shadows as much as possible, though he makes sure that Sunblaze and the others know exactly where he is. (Hide Skill Check of 7+7=DC 14) Along the way, Garmik keeps his eyes and ears open for any potential trouble (Spot Check of 1+6= DC of 7 oops, Listen Check of 13+6= DC of 19).
Renik leads the way (DM Jerry) d20+11=31 Wednesday April 25th, 2001 11:12:50 PM
Renik leads the way as described: "He keeps to the back alleys around the back of the Green Tortoise Club, then comes up the alley alongside it to peer into Warrior's Lane, scanning the area for signs of activity. If all is clear he motions the party forward, and down towards the intersection with Adventurer's End, heading for the path that leads into Gladiator Park."
Looking to the right down Adventurer's End one can see the Golden Towers of Gold Dragon Castle. All is dark there except for the lit grounds.
You must now turn north and go past Gold Dragon Castle to the nearest park entrance. The Golden Arena is within the park.
As you get farther from the strange mists in Circus and Hindquarters, the sounds of the night return. Night owls, insects, especially coming from over the wall to the park to the west. Plus the sounds of humanity: A drunk in an alley, the sounds coming from The Golden Griffin Inn and the Red Wyrm Inn.
Suddenly a group of three figures appears atop the park wall to the west. When they spot you (d20+11=31) [natural 20] they freeze. As most of you are hidden at any single moment, they pause as if ascertaining how many of you there are and whisper to each other. They, however, are totally exposed on the top of the wall separating Adventurer's End from Gladiator Park.
All three carry a large jingling sack. One looks back over his shoulder nervously.
Sunblaze Wednesday April 25th, 2001 11:36:42 PM
Sunblaze looks over to the people there and then is stunned. She unsheaths her sword and prepares to fight. She moves closer to the new band and holds it up. "Who is thee?" Her head still hurts, but she ignores it for now.
Harry (Damocles) d20-3=16 Thursday April 26th, 2001 1:53:25 AM
Harry bolts towards an alleyway, hoping to not be noticed by the others. (Hide check 16, due to armor penalty). He clanks a bit as he moves, but doesn't seem to be going any slower. Once out of sight, great wings unfurl from his back and his clothes become a suit of glimmering armor with a full helm that shields much of his face. He prepares himself for the worst case scenario, but hopes for the best.
Renik (Gullion) [Carl] Thursday April 26th, 2001 5:38:46 AM
Renik looks up to see the three men appear at the top of the wall. Swiftly unslinging his bow he notches an arrow and trains it on the three.
"You heard the lady, gentlemen," he calls. "Come down here and let's discuss this like civilised fellows, I dislike chatting to folk perched up on walls. We wouldn't want you to fall off and hurt yourselves, would we?"
He grins from within the shadow of his cowl, and takes closer aim with his bow.
Draax (Steps) [Stan] Thursday April 26th, 2001 6:29:28 AM
Draax nods to Garmik in greeting and then smiles at Sunblaze's comment. He sees the other group carrying the sack just as he hears Sunblaze address them. He draws his bow and readies an arrow, but makes no other move.
Roger (Rond)((Todd)) d20+10=30 Thursday April 26th, 2001 9:20:32 AM
Not wishing to give away party numbers, and letting those that have identified themselves have the limelight. Roger jumps into the shadows. (hide check 20+10)
Garmik (Alias Mismor) [Michael Tedin] d20=6 Thursday April 26th, 2001 8:48:32 PM
Garmik follows Sunblaze's lead and unsheaths his sword, but holds it at his side. He attempts to move back into the shadows, hoping he has not been seen. (Hide check 6+7=DC 13.) He whispers to Sunblaze and Renik, "Be careful, it may not be necessary to fight these people. It may draw more attention than we want. Let us quickly find out what these men are about and, if it does not concern us, move on. If they know nothing of the fliers, we should leave them be. Remember the job we were hired to do. Ask about the fliers."
Arien (Tamosvar) [Adam] Thursday April 26th, 2001 10:00:09 PM
After seeing the men Arien crouches at the edge of a roof. Arms crossed and resting on his knees Arien makes no hostile overtures and keeps an eye out from his vantage for any companions the trio may have that might be trying to flank the party.
Strangers In the Night (DM Jerry) Thursday April 26th, 2001 10:23:21 PM
In response to Sunblaze hailing, "Who is thee?" Stranger #1, a long haired male with an earring in the left ear.
He says, "We want no trouble here. And we suggest that you give us none."
And with that he does a flip in the air and lands on his feet... a bit roughly.
Harry is most likely seen when he heads toward hiding, but he is probably not seen to change appearance.
The 2nd gentlemen drops his bag to the ground below him and then gently floats to it. "We'd love to discuss the hour of the night wit' ye pretty lassie, but we must be off rather quickly you see."
Rond disappears like a ghost (perfect roll). His performance is not lost on the 3rd of the figures: a black headed female. "We don't want a tangle with you fine folk. I am Midnight. We are known as the 'Stars of Midnight.' We must be on our way and so should you. For we are followed indirectly."
The three of them then run forward smiling and saluting.
Sunblaze 2d4(4+2)=6 Thursday April 26th, 2001 11:19:48 PM
Sunblaze sees the 'thieves' as she guesses running away and then follows in suit. "I'm coming with you Stars... I would rather know who you are and why you were here than think you were criminals." She laughs, her head pounding, and she seems to be ready to pass out.
She drops her sword and comes to a dead halt, then she begins to cast her spell (Sleep, 6 HD are affected[2d4], Wizard Spell, but sung).
"Weary Thieves, stop and rest, I would think it best. Your bones are sore, Stay awake for no more."
If any fall asleep she runs after them, grabbing her sword and trying to drag them into an alley. "Help me my friends."
Harry(Damocles) Friday April 27th, 2001 11:48:50 AM
Harry rises aloft out of the alleyway, and in doing so, one might notice his new likeness to the devas and Aasimar of myth. He soars well above the street level, trying to rise high enough so as to not be noticed by anyone who is not watching him exit the alley. From his greater vantage point he attempts to see who it is that follows the group already at work.
Draax (Steps)[Stan] d10=6 d20=3 Friday April 27th, 2001 12:52:11 PM
Draax listens as Sunblaze converses with the alleged thieves. Upon hearing that others may be in pursuit of the rogues, Draax begins to looks and listen (DC 3+6 =9) for any sign of pursuers. He turns toward Sunblaze as she begins to sing, he then looks toward the retreating rogue to see what the results are. He keeps his readied bow pointed to the ground, but ready to bring into position and fire if needed.
Renik (Gullion) [Carl] d20+12=20 Friday April 27th, 2001 5:28:18 PM
Renik sighs. He is sure this is not what Marcus had in mind when he suggested they keep a low profile. He has a nasty feeling they are about to get caught in a confrontation that is not their affair. Still, the die is cast now, and he had best be ready. The fact that pursuers are likely to be on the scene at any moment has not escaped him.
Attempting to keep the fleeing Stars of Midnight within bowshot, he melts into the shadows of a doorway (Hide 8+12=DC20), and waits to see if Sunblaze is succesful in bringing down any of the thieves.
Garmik (Alias Mismor) [Michael Tedin] d20=1 Friday April 27th, 2001 8:59:41 PM
Garmik is unsure why Sunblaze is acting so rashly towards these men who seem to want no trouble. He is even more apprehensive about the pursuers they mention. He does a quick check around to see anything that might look like pursuers. (Spot check 1+6= DC 7) He keeps quiet, tries to stay unseen, and keeps his sword ready at his side.
If any fall asleep as a result of Sunblaze's lullaby, Garmik will first defend Sunblaze against any violent response from the Stars of Midnight. If there is none, he will help Sunblaze drag sleepy bodies into an alley.
Arien (Tamosvar) [Adam] d20+7=23 Saturday April 28th, 2001 1:07:39 AM
Storing the name of the group away for later use and inquiry Arien jogs lightly across the rooftops to find a better vantage point. Once there Arien gives a sweeping glance of the general area before focusing on the way the trio came from. (Voluntary spot check.)
DM Jerry Tuesday May 1st, 2001 12:33:28 AM
[Game halted until character sheets are in. Next goal date: Wed.]
Party Initiative Results (DM Jerry) d20+7=26 Friday May 4th, 2001 11:20:57 PM
Sunblaze's Sleep Spell focuses on Thief #2. He staggers and then recovers continuing on his way. (Will Save of d20+7=26)
(Kim by private post bids me to tell you that Midnight has black hair and is not "blackheaded." I say: Kim if you don't like my blackheaded comments, you can come back from your self imposed vacation and start DMing again [grin])
Damocles (hopefully we have put away Harry's disguise for the evening's spying) rises using his Wings of Flying 30' above the ground and 45' forward progress (see Fly spell and the comments there on wearing heavy armor when flying) He ends up pretty much in plain view of everyone. He is not yet high enough to see any pursuit beyond the wall to the west.
Renik runs to the nearest doorway and attempts to hide there in the shadows.
Garmik detects no sign of pursuers. Garmik finds it hard to remain unsen as he is in the street. However, it isn't far to the edge of a building. (see map.)(The word "defend" isn't a combat term. If you wish to interrupt any attack upon Sunblaze, state that you are readying an attack upon anyone who attacks Sunblaze.)
Arien finds that he is already in the best vantage point that he can reach in one round so he remains where he is. (see map.) He looks around (see map). Then he focuses on the area of the wall and beyond where the trio came from. He spots what appears to be several figures on the other side of the wall approaching it at a run.
Suddenly Arien hears footsteps behind him on the rooftop. A figure approaches him moving across the roof as one born to them. He flashes Marcus's sign and squats down beside him. (This is Paul's entrance for his character named Kale. Everyone is now been introduced into the game. Yeah!)
(Remember that when I end a post with three dots that I have another post yet to do and you should wait to post until you see that I've ended my last post without those tell-tale three dots. In combat, I will always say that it is now party initiative as my last thing.)...
Stars of Midnight Initiative (DM Jerry) d4=1 Friday May 4th, 2001 11:45:40 PM
#1, having run through the group last round, and his way clear with nothing in his way, increases his speed to quadruple his normal (120').
#2 after stumbling from sudden sleepiness barks out in a loud whisper, "We've been attacked! Sleep spell!" He immediately slows to let Midnight catch up with him and follow her lead. He readies an attack upon anyone who attacks Midnight or anyone Midnight attacks.
Midnight, "Curses! You fools! What did we do to you?"
She continues forward eyeing Damocles with respect. "Stay with me Tumble. I'm going to send out an invitation to this party for all to attend."
She stops turns and casts.
"WALL OF FIRE"
The night sky lights up with fire as a wall of the stuff stretches from one side of the street to the other attaching itself to the buildings on either side of the street. It is nearly 15' tall. The heat washes over everyone. The light from the flames lights up the scene making it look as if the whole street and wall was lifted from The Wold and placed in hell!
Garmik being within 20' of the wall on it's "hot" side takes d4=1 hit point damage from the flames.
It is now player initiative.
(next turn due 5PM CST Monday.)
Sunblaze Saturday May 5th, 2001 1:41:25 AM
Sunblaze make a small shout to her friends. "GET AWAY! WE'VE BEEN HAD!!! Meet at my place!" She hopes her friends got the message and she focuses her ring's power. Any watching see her blending with the surronding area.
Sunblaze now 'hidden' goes towards the door near Renik and tries to pull it open. If she manages to, she runs it, trying to find something that is an exit, that's beyond the Fire Wall.
If she does, but can't catch them she pulls Trent out of her sleeve and whispers. "Stay with them, I'll contact you later... If they escape, don't worry, I'll help you." With that she throws him out gently and thinks. 'Good luck my friend...'
Garmik (Alias Mismor) [Michael Tedin] d20+7=8 Saturday May 5th, 2001 12:52:04 PM
Garmik steps back at least 20' from the wall of fire towards Draax.
"Is Sunblaze always this rash? I think we should get away from here. This flame is going to attract a bit of unwanted attention. Let's let these Stars of Midnight go on their way."
"We should continue on our business this evening. I see nothing that has interrupted it if we get away from here quickly."
Garmik then heads north away from the wall of fire and towards the entrance to Gladiator Park, encouraging Renik and Draax to follow. He will attempt to hide in the shadows once he gets away from the light of the Wall of Fire (d20+7=DC8 I guess there is just too much light). As he moves north, he will scan the rooftops looking for Arien and Rond.
Damocles d20+8=25 Saturday May 5th, 2001 3:09:24 PM
Damocles soars over the wall of fire (as it is 20' high), landing on the other side with his palms up and facing Midnight. "Pax, shall we all take flight together? I have no desire for combat... only a single one of us does, and she is out of sorts. We can aright this problem." (Diplomacy, 25).
Arien Saturday May 5th, 2001 10:35:51 PM
Unsure whether the wall of fire constituted an act of aggression or not Arien does not attack but has his bow in hand and an arrow nocked. He however does not attack but waits to see what further action the trio will take.
Draax Sunday May 6th, 2001 1:54:40 AM
Draax see the firewall go up and his half-elven face can be seen mouthing all types of profanity and finally says loud enough to be heard. "This is just great! Our first scouting mission and the first thing we do is bring attention to ourselves."
Noticing how everyone is beginning to move in different directions, he turns to Garmik. "I have not known her that long, but I will definitely note the rashness in her character for future references."
He sighs. "But, you are right; we should flee this place, even if they were not being pursued. That wall is going to draw a lot of attention."
Draax puts away his bow and moves away from the firewall in the same direction as Garmik, but keeping his distance. In a voice loud enough to be heard by anyone close by, he says. "If any of us make it out of here with out any complications, let meet at the place where we were heading."
Walking very fast Draax heads in the direction of the park.
Renik Sunday May 6th, 2001 11:38:56 AM
As the Firewall flares into life, Renik claps a hand to his forehead in despair. What a fiasco! Half the city can probably see this! And it is certain whoever is pursuing the Stars of Midnight will see it too, and come running. He makes a mental note to have a serious word about the nature of spying with Sunblaze when they return to the Beer & Bath.
As Garmik and Draax start to head for the park Renik slips out of the cover of the doorway and starts to follow them. He notices however that Damocles has disappeared over the wall. He spots Arien, perched on a rooftop beyond the twenty foot high sheet of flame. Who is that next to him?
He puts two fingers to his mouth and lets out a piercing whistle to attract his companion's attention. Assuming Arien does spot him, he signals urgently; "Let's go! Trouble coming!"
Arien Sunday May 6th, 2001 10:14:19 PM
"Well then whoever you are looks like we need to get out of here, and quickly. I'd introduce myself but I'm sure Marcus has told you all about us, and well like I said, we need to be on the move."
A moment later the arrow is back in his quiver and his bow was once again stored away. With a practiced loping run Arien heads towards the Arena, keeping an eye out to make sure the newcomer doesn't fall far behind.
Fire is the Devil's Only Friend Monday May 7th, 2001 5:01:55 PM
On the rooftop beside Arien, the newcomer raises his hand in a gesture of restraint when he sees the elf nock an arrow. When he realizes that Arien was not intending to fire, though, he nods and creeps closer to the roof’s edge. A halfling by his size, his features are difficult to discern in the faint moonlight, until he leans over the cornice to survey the unfolding fiasco below. For an instant the firelight illuminates a swarthy face of middle years, which looks accustomed to laughter but at the moment wears a scowl of disbelief. Then he pulls his head back into the safety of the darkness.
As Arien turns to vacate the scene, the halfling lingers for a moment, held both by curiosity at who might have been following Midnight, and by worry that the firewall might set the whole neighborhood ablaze. But with the attention the spell is sure to draw, there will be little chance of learning much, he decides…and plenty of hands to deal with any fires that break out. With a last disbelieving shake of his head, he turns and scrambles across the rooftop, hurrying to keep up with the longer-legged elf.
[OOC: Hi everyone, great to be aboard. My name’s Paul, and I’ll be playing the role of Kale, or Mike as he calls himself in the Beer & Bath. I look forward to getting to know all of you!]
Flight the Better Part of Valor (DM Jerry) d20+10=14 d8+10=16 d20+3=19 d20+3=6 d6=4 Monday May 7th, 2001 8:48:39 PM
Sunblaze reaches for the doorknob of the door near Renik and as she pulls she realizes that the door opens in. Almost at the same time, she realizes that she's been had. The doorknob sends a shock up through her hand, up her arm, and into her body. Suddenly she finds that her feet have left the cobblestone as the shock goes through her body her hand unable to let go of the door (Shocking Grasp must hit with touch attack [d20+10=14] which it does doing (d8+10=16 hpd.).
When the shock finally stops, Sunblaze's eyes roll up in her head and she collapses to the ground.
Garmik heads north towards the entrance to Gladiator Park. After a bit when things get darker, he stops to hide in the shadows.
Damocles easily lands facing Midnight and makes his proposition.
Arien waits for a bit and then heads west across the rooftops. As he moves west to the next building there is a 10' drop in height which is no problem for Arien with his tumbling skill. (Should we still be in combat, this would be all he could do. Check the scale on the map. However, we are now out of combat.) The next building is again 10' shorter and Arien jumps down easily. As he approaches Adventurer's End, he sees a 25' jump to the ground in an area where any followers could see him if they come over the wall. We leave him here for this post to ponder his next action.
Draax also heads north after Garmik at a fast walk.
Remik also heads north after Garmik and the others.
Kale scrambles after Arien. Lacking Tumbling, he uses his Jump skill to avoid damage from the two jumps. He makes his first jump avoiding damage. He fails the second landing on the roof with a thump (d6=4) and takes 4 hit points damage from the bad landing as he finds himself hitting rump first. . .
Midnight (DM Jerry) Monday May 7th, 2001 8:50:44 PM
Midnight looks over Damocles seeming to stare in his eyes for a moment. Then she smiles and says, "Come on!" She runs ahead trying to catch #1. (We'll handle this separation from the party via email very quickly.)
Garmik [Michael Tedin] Monday May 7th, 2001 10:03:07 PM
Garmik waits for the others to catch up. He allows Draax and Renik to pass him and watches behind for Arien and Damocles.
[OOC Is Garmik or anyone else in a position to see what happened to Sunblaze?]
Draax [Stan] Monday May 7th, 2001 10:29:33 PM
Draax walks past Garmik and slows down his pace as he periodically looks around and behind him for the others and for any sign of pursuit.
Kale (aka Mike) d20+3=10 2d6(2+5)=7 2d8(7+2)+3=12 Monday May 7th, 2001 10:37:01 PM
[OOC: All these actions are based on the assumption that Kale can see that Sunblaze is hurt from his rooftop position. He's got a clear line of sight to her now, and Midnight's firewall provides plenty of light... but I don't know if Sunblaze's camouflaging ring still functions when she's unconscious... Also, this would be more than one round's worth of actions were we in combat; let me know if it's too much to post in one chunk. I'm still getting the hang of how things work here; apologies in advance for the mistakes I'm sure to make. ;-) ]
Pulling up short at the third roof-edge, Kale judges the long drop and decides that Wardd won't object if he and the elf take a bit more care in this descent than in the last two. "Rope's in my pack," he says quickly. "Can you grab...damn, no time; someone's hurt down there. Bet or fold..."
With that oddly cheerful remark, the halfling steps out into empty space. A moment later a sharp grunt of pain from street level betrays the fact that he's misjudged his landing on the rough cobbles below. [OOC: Missed jump check, 2d6=7 points falling damage.]
He's on his feet as quickly as he can shake off the fall, and moving at a fast limp as he skirts the blistering heat to reach the fallen mage. "O Lord of Second Chances," he intones the moment he's at her side. "Please stake this lass to play one more hand in thy name. Salutos Wardd Ramidae!"
With that, he places one hand on the woman's badly burned arm, the other over her heart, and closes his eyes as he becomes a conduit for the Lucky One's grace... [OOC: Giving up Entrall spell to cast Cure Moderate Wounds; 2d8+3 = 12 points healed.]
Arien Tuesday May 8th, 2001 12:25:54 AM
Arien pauses where he is and drops flat to the roof to conceal himself. There he waits to see if any pursuers will be coming over the wall and also waits for the rest of the group to catch up.
Renik Tuesday May 8th, 2001 11:49:16 AM
As Renik heads off after Garmik and Draax, he hears furious crackling, buzzing sound, and a flash of eirie blue light. When he looks around Sunblaze is lying unconcious, smoke curling from her twitching right hand.
He is about to call the others back to assist her when he hears someone grunt in pain, and a moment later a limping halfling appears. Could that be the figure he saw a moment ago, perched next to Arien on the rooftop?
Before he can reach Sunblaze the little man is at her side, and they are both lit with the unmistakable white glow of healing magiks.
"Whoever you are, friend, I thank you for your kindness." Says Renik as he reaches the two, and leans down to help Sunblaze to her feet. "But I would advise you get as far from this place as possible, for this blaze will bring unwelcome questions at best."
And checking that Sunblaze is sufficiently recovered to follow, he sets off again after his companions, not expecting Kale to follow.
Sunblaze d8=1 Tuesday May 8th, 2001 6:04:39 PM
Sunblaze grabs the door and is hit with the bolt. As it runs through her body she smokes slightly, then she falls to the ground. The electricity still goes through and then dies.
If Sunblaze is healed, and survives she bolts up. She pulls from her side a wand and then holds it tightly. She uses it on herself and a heals slightly, then she runs after her allies.
Kale Tuesday May 8th, 2001 6:26:05 PM
Glad to see that the patient is back on her feet and seems alert, the halfling breathes a quick word of thanks to his deity. Then he grins up at the human who has run back to help. "Good advice, friend, but you're stuck with me," he tells Renik. "Name's Kale; Big M sent me."
Assuming everyone in the trio is capable of running now, Kale sets off northward before he's even finished speaking, moving at the fastest clip his short legs and his injuries allow. He'll try to keep up with the others, or at least keep them in sight; failing that, he'll settle for deducing their destination and catching up with them once they reach it.
Garmik [Michael Tedin] Wednesday May 9th, 2001 3:02:16 AM
When Garmik sees that everybody is up and moving north, he waits until Kale draws near and moves north as well. He flashes the holy symbol of Wardd to Kale.
"Well met, brother. May the Lord of Luck be with us for the rest of the night. That run-in with the Stars of Midnight was a bit of bad luck. But luck comes and luck goes as Wardd wills."
Garmik then moves north, making sure Kale can keep up.
Masks of Red, Doors of Blue (DM Jerry) Wednesday May 9th, 2001 4:28:18 AM
A lot happens in the City of Adventurers. It is said that there are upwards of 100 "official" adventuring groups in the Big Plat at any time. One can hardly go anywhere without running in to some of them, whether it be day or night... or Midnight.
Sunblaze is healed. (Hero point to Kale. Nicely done.)
Arien realizes that everyone else in the group has gone north and is on the other side of the intersection than he, except for Damocles who ran off with Midnight and her two friends.
The rest of the group, minus Damocles, moves north passing Gold Dragon Castle and ending up at the East Gladiator Park Gate. There is a bulletin board, with several of the tell-tale advertisements you are attempting to trace.
Suddenly, a Dimension Door appears near the gate and Damocles steps through, seemingly none the worse for wear.
Just as suddenly a dozen or so robed figures drop over the wall back down by the intersection. Wearing red masks, they head east hard on the trail of someone or something. One stops to look north and spots your group near the gate. He pauses, then moves on with the others.
Renik Wednesday May 9th, 2001 5:15:53 AM
"Kale, eh? Glad to have you aboard, Kale, that was a good save back there. I'm afraid our friend Sunblaze is somewhat... impetuous. Your timely intervention saved a bad situation from degenerating further."
As they reach the East Gate Renik is somewhat startled to see Damocles step out of a shimmering gateway in the air. Is this Midnight's doing?
"Damocles! Good to see you back! Did you learn anything of value concerning the Stars of Midnight?"
At that moment the masked, robed figures appear, and one gets a good look at them before heading off, presumably after Midnight.
"Perhaps we should get into the park and under cover," suggests Renik. "We are too exposed out here on the streets."
Draax [Stan] Wednesday May 9th, 2001 4:01:33 PM
Draax listens as Renik talks to Kale, He tries to get an impression of the halfling and decides that he likes the newcomer.
"Kale, let me add my praises to your smart thinking and quick action. Also let me welcome you to the group, I am Draax, I will let the others introduce themselves."
Turning to Sunblaze he says. "Now maybe you can tell us why you cast that spell on that group? Did you see or know something that the rest of us didn't?"
While waiting for an answer from Sunblaze, Damocles suddenly drops in. Draax looks over at him in surprise and then looks to make sure that he is ok, after seeing no visible damage, he turns his attention to robed figures until they disappears. Many questions comes to his mind to ask Damocles, but he decides to wait.
Draax goes over to the bulletin board and looks at the advertisements without reading them to see if there are any obvious clues, although he does not expect any. He takes one down and then turns toward the park entrance.
"Renik is right, maybe we should get off of what seems to be a high traffic area."
Draax will head into the park unless someone comes up with a better place to go.
Sunblaze Wednesday May 9th, 2001 8:09:14 PM
Sunblaze looks at the group for a moment. "I thank you for saving me..." She turns to everyone else. "Yes, I saw people running away, probably thieves...and us being near-by we would have easily taken the blame, forcing us to reveal ourselves, as they wouldn't let us keep our stuff with us." She stares at them. "Don't get angry with me because I tried to help us..."
Sunblaze walks towards the park, although she doesn't want to go, she wants to go back. She'd created a big problem tonight, and didn't want to worsen it by angering her friends, but she was perfectly in the right, even if they didn't think so.
Damocles Wednesday May 9th, 2001 8:30:48 PM
Damocles shifts back into the form he was wearing when he left, that of an iron clad and angel winged warrior of the upper planes. "They are friends. Nothing more. Seeking to right a wrong."
He turns to Sunblaze and looks deeply into her eyes. "You must remember, in the future, to take precautions against such indiscretions."
He begins moving towards the park with the others, wings trailing behind him.
Garmik [Michael Tedin] Wednesday May 9th, 2001 9:41:31 PM
"Renik is right. I also prefer the cover of the park to the exposure of the street."
Garmik quickly scans the bulletin board for anything new or out of the ordinary. He also checks the flyers to see if they are different in any way.
Garmik takes another flyer and follows Draax and Damocles into the park.
Arien Wednesday May 9th, 2001 10:34:06 PM
Deciding to put caution to the wind Arien quickly scales down the wall and darts across the square to the other side and just as quickly scales the wall over there. He then moves along the walls slowly to find the party. When found he whistles quietly to alert them to his presence and descends to them.
Into the Park (DM Jerry) Wednesday May 9th, 2001 10:46:56 PM
The red masked ones disappear quickly down the street.
Garmik spots on the bulletin board a few of the flyers in question. There are several held on with a tack. It looks as if people have been tearing one off and leaving the others underneath.
As the party enters through the stone and steel bar gate, the scenery changes dramatically. A road goes to the right hugging the wall. Another road goes straight going forward disappearing into the park. Trees surround you. There are the sounds of the night. Owls, night birds, crickets and grasshoppers.
Suddenly crashing through the gate is a carriage. A rather plump woman in a party dress opens the door of the cab before it comes completely to a close.
Whispering to another woman in the cab who is as skinny as the first is plump, the plump one says, "No, he has to be here. My finder's stone is practically burning my hand off. Ouch I broke a nail!"
She steps out. She whispers, "Gullion, are you here my friend? Gullion?"
Kale Thursday May 10th, 2001 12:20:44 AM
"Greetings, Brother," Kale grins back at Garmik as they run. "Any luck you walk away from is good luck, I always say…so Wardd’s with us yet tonight. So far, that is," he adds, glancing over his shoulder as the first of the masked figures appears over the wall. He remains silent after that, conserving his breath to keep up with the longer-legged folk until the party pulls to a halt beside the bulletin board. As the halfling limps to a halt beside the others, his breath is ragged and his face is flushed from exertion, but he seems to have enjoyed the desperate sprint.
"Hiya gentlemen," he says, returning Draax’ and Renik’s greetings. "Name’s Duckwell. Kale Duckwell. We’ll have to repeat the introductions the proper way later – over a hand of cards, that is – but for now I wager you’ll be wantin’ to see my credentials." He proffers a letter marked with Marcus’ seal, then wanders over to the board to pluck down one of the gimmicked papers, which he rolls up and stashes in a case at his belt.
He seems to take Damocles’ appearance in stride, nodding an affable greeting, but boggles at Sunblaze’s words. "I shoulda checked her for head wounds," he mutters under his breath, then swallows his annoyance while he scrambles to match the tall elf’s stride. "Listen," he tells her, "I’d be the last to harp on that mess back there. When folks with enemies surprise each other in dark streets, mistakes happen. Wardd knows I’ve authored some colossal blunders in my time." His tone of voice and barely suppressed chuckle carry an odd note of pride at this confession. "What worries me is that you sound like you still think attacking those three was a smart move. So by all the gods, lass... PLEASE say you won’t do that again?"
Kale (after seeing Jerry's post; oops.) d20+10=18 Thursday May 10th, 2001 12:31:28 AM
As the carriage barges into the park, Kale breaks off his negotiations with Sunblaze and vanishes into the foliage beside the path (Hide roll 18), where he watches and listens with great curiosity to see if the woman's contact will appear...
Renik (Gullion) and Gullion (Renik) d20+7=27 Thursday May 10th, 2001 4:44:57 AM
As the carriage comes to a halt and the plump lady leans out Renik curses softly under his breath. What on earth is Lady Flora doing here? Is everyone in this city to know their movements this night? Still, it must be something important for her to track him down at this hour. Whispering urgently to his companions "Hide! Hide and be silent! This woman knows my alter ego, and she must not connect him with this group! he ducks into the foliage, rummages in his backpack and retrieves Gullion's red beaded cap and his disguise kit.
Working furiously he roughly applies the makeup, hair oil and breath 'freshener' that would normally take him several minutes to apply. The overall effect, though rushed, is remarkably convincing when combined with Gullion's stoop and clumsy gait. (20+7= DC27: Woo hoo!)He calls softly from behind the bush "My Lady? Lady Flora? Is that you?", then stands and approaches the carriage, his long grey cloak drawn up around him, hood half hiding his face. The voice is markedly different from the assured, confident tones of the man who stood there just moments before. This voice has a nasal, wheedling quality to it, and if his companions had not been aware of the change, they would scarce believe this is really Renik Dacour.
As he reaches Lady Flora, Gullion peers about nervously, and launches into his typical babble. "My Lady! What brings you here at this hour? An exquisite delight though it is to see you (as always), I fear this is not the safest place for such a delicate rose as your beauteous self. And in truth it would be better if vagabonds and hoodlums such as frequent these parts did not discover your humble servant here either. Do you you have urgent news for me?"
Garmik [Michael Tedin] d20+7=16 d20+7=9 d20+6=10 Thursday May 10th, 2001 9:06:55 PM
To Kale, Garmik replies, "A game of cards might be just the thing to pass the time. Perhaps later back at the Beer and Bath. As for Sunblaze, I don't think a head wound has caused her strange behavior."
To Sunblaze, Garmik asks, "Did you study one of these flyers? My understanding is that they can cause strange behavior in those who read them."
Before he can get an answer, Lady Flora's carriage enters the park. Garmik heeds Renik's warning and attempts to hide in the darkness (Hide check d20+7=DC16). Unfortunately, the darkness makes it difficult to see in the brush that Garmik hides in. (Move Silent check d20+7=DC9)
Once hidden in the brush, Garmik will stay still and attempt to listen to the conversation between Renik (Guillon) and Lady Flora. (Listen check d20+6=DC10)
Draax [Stan] Thursday May 10th, 2001 9:40:15 PM
As the carriage comes crashing through the gate, Draax begins to go for his sword until he see who is driving and hears her calls. Draax stands his ground as others disappear around him.
He keeps his hand on his sword as Renik goes through his transformation. As Gullion begins to talk to the woman, Draax slowly moves away and stands next to the closest tree, looking around for any other unexpected guest.
Damocles Thursday May 10th, 2001 9:54:08 PM
"All too odd," states the priest. "It appears as if someone's found a long lost friend." He tries to stay in the dark as much as possible, but is afraid that light will glint off his armor a bit too much to be subtle.
Lady Flora (DM Jerry) Thursday May 10th, 2001 10:14:27 PM
Ahh, Gullion my friend. I thought I heard others. Are you ok? Good. Yes to the point. There are some black clad folk in Gold district this very minute who are putting out those flyers you asked about. If you're quick, you might get there before they leave the area. That's it. Now will you come to tea one afternoon?"
"No time for your stupid fantasies Flora, we gotta go now," says the skinny lady with her. She looks with disgust at Gullion.
"He's the one you said was cute? Gods Flora! We gotta get you a man!"
Flora's friend pulls her into the carriage and it rockets forward into Dragon Quarter.
Sunblaze d20+19=35 d20+19=23 Thursday May 10th, 2001 10:56:39 PM
Sunblaze listens to her friends for a moment. "Well, next time I'll consult you all before I try to help us!" Sunblaze listens for a moment, trying not to attack Kale. "I'll do what I need, if you don't like that, Marcus will find ya another group!" With that Sunblaze tries to go away. Hidden from their comments (Hidden easily).
Sunblaze walks along, mumbling. "What right did they have to be mean? I did what I could for the party. Maybe I'll buy them all a nice gift... they'll like that..." A smile comes to her face and she feels Trent sliding around. "You too..."
Sunblaze reachs the carriage, and slips down(hides again), watching. She wasn't about to be this person's friend because he was sent by Marcus...
Arien Friday May 11th, 2001 1:49:26 AM
Waiting until after the carriage has left Arien turns to the others and says, "It seems now we have two options. One is to continue onto the park and scout it out, something that in my opinion can wait. Or two we can find these people who are distibuting the pamphlets and track them to their headquarters, an opportunity that I doubt will come so easily again."
Kale: Gold Quarter and/or Bust Friday May 11th, 2001 2:35:16 AM
"Fastest way to the Gold Quarter is straight through the park," answers Kale as he climbs back onto the road, brushing bits of shrubbery from his clothes. "And you're right, Arien; we can't ignore a stroke of luck like this. Good luck or bad luck, we'll see -- how trustworthy is this ladyfriend of yours, 'Gullion'? -- but the important thing is: it's luck."
If the party is in agreement, Kale sets off at top speed along the path leading west into the park. "Three-to-one...naw, maybe five-to-two against," he can be heard to mutter cheerfully as he runs, though he doesn't say what he's figuring the odds of.
Renik Friday May 11th, 2001 5:15:22 AM
As the carriage rounds a corner, Gullion straightens, and is replaced by an animated Renik.
Stuffing his cap into his bag and removing his makeup swiftly with a rag, Renik rapidly nods at Kale and Arien's words. "To the best of my knowledge Lady Flora is to be believed. I have no reason to doubt her word." His movements have taken on an urgency now that they have their first real lead to pursue. "As I see it we have no choice but to locate these dark-clad figures and follow them."
When Kale mentions the best route to the Gold Quarter Renik grins. "It seems I'm not the only one who's been brushing up on my maps of the city! If I remember right we follow Unicorn Trail to Gladiator's Curve. We should make haste."
He is about to set off when a thought occurs. "Damocles, could you take to the air, fly high so as not to be seen, and act as our spotter? Perhaps you could signal us from the air as to the location of our quarry, unless anyone here has a means of remote communication?"
Once this is settled he tears off at top speed after Kale.
Draax [Stan] Friday May 11th, 2001 6:10:34 PM
Draax listens as Gullion and the lady talks, he looks directly at the lady when she mentions the flyer. He smiles and gives a silent thanks to WARDD, God of Luck.
He looks over at Sunblaze and hides a smile, thinking to himself that nobody gets it right 100% of the time in this business. If we did where would the adventure be?
He nods his head in agreement with the others about going to see about the men in black. He holds back just long enough to make sure that everyone is following before moving on himself.
Garmik [Michael Tedin] Friday May 11th, 2001 9:10:43 PM
As people head off, Garmik follows quickly behind muttering to himself.
"Unicorn Trail to Gladiator's Curve. Then what? She could have been a little more specific. Where in the Gold Quarter? Gold Street? Blue Ale Tavern?"
Louder, he says, "Once in the Gold Quarter, we should stay nearer the more traveled streets. If they are posting flyers, they will likely post in the high traffic areas."
Oh well, he thinks to himself, roll the dice. Perhaps we'll find something if we move quickly. It'll be difficult to see men in black at nighttime. Even seeing a signal from Damocles might be difficult. He will have to rely on the elves for better vision.
Arien Friday May 11th, 2001 9:20:21 PM
As the party sets out to locate the people posting the flyers Arien takes a moment to scale a nearby building and thus taking once again to the rooftops quickly follows after the rest of the group.
Through Gladiator Park (DM Jerry) Saturday May 12th, 2001 12:11:03 PM
The party takes Unicorn Trail to Gladiator's Curve straight into Gold Quarter. The walled Gladiator Castle is on the right and is a bit tall for Arien to climb and might have guards.
Arien looks left and sees buildings of the appropriate height there, but every couple of buildings is broken by an alley, meaning lots of climbing up and down again. He looks to see where to begin.
(Arien, I need you to be specific about which building you'll climb. Sending everyone a copy of Gold Quarter that should be better quality than the one online.)
The gaudiness of this quarter is evident. Glowglobes are everywhere lighting the streets and alleyways. All the buildings are of the finest stone and wood. Everything is freshly painted with gold in the color scheme of nearly all the structures. The Temple of Karinthis towers over everything, with Gladiator Castle and The House of Blood coming in a close second. The two gladiator training schools almost seem a blot on the landscape. At the west end of this quarter, the city walls, tall and broad, keep one from seeing the inevitable 5000' drop that plummets on their other side down to the second level. Oh, what the view must be from that wall at sunrise and sunset.
Sunblaze Saturday May 12th, 2001 1:18:16 PM
Sunblaze looks at the group, watching them. She liked them, but they didn't seem to like her much. She'd get them all to like her, if it was the last thing she'd ever do.
Sunblaze looks up, trying to see the stars, when she spots Arien she smiles. "Freedom, to fly whenever you wish. It must be great Arien..." Sunblaze is just staring up, imagining it. Flying, soaring, with the birds. She'd get there, eventully.
Kale: The game is afoot Saturday May 12th, 2001 5:53:32 PM
"Maps, hell!" Kale grins back at Renik. "I live here! Well, not right here in the park. Or in the Gold Quarter, Wardd help me... but I've been there once or twice."
As the party spills out of the western park gate into the shadow of Gladiator Castle, the halfling is puffing from the sprint across the park. "Must be gettin' old," he admits between gulps of air as he peers down the darkened streets. "That or the rest of you all have freakishly long legs."
"Like Garmik said, main streets are where we'll have the best chance of spotting 'em. If we get separated, let's meet in front of the Temple; it's hard to miss."
[OOC: It would be logical to split up and fan out across the district, but I know it's a pain in the ass for Jerry if we separate the party too much.
I haven't received the more detailed map Jerry mentioned... but working from the one on the website, how's it sound to everyone if we cut through an alley to Competition Street, then circle that island of buildings in front of the Temple (the cluster that contains Sparkle's Exchange). If there's no sign of the fliers or their authors there, we can try circling the next block south of there; it also looks like a high-traffic area...
Meanwhile, Damocles can be scanning the whole quarter from the air.]
Draax [Stan] Saturday May 12th, 2001 7:22:54 PM
Draax looks yearningly towards the gladiator training schools. “I bet someone could learn a lot in one of those.”
He turns his attention back to the group. He listens to Kale’s suggestions and not being from this city, he cannot think of a better plan.
“I have no problem with Kale’s plan, especially if he is familiar with the area. Is there anyone else in our group that lives or lived in this area?”
He turns to everyone, trying not to look directly at Sunblaze. “OK, when/if we do run into these flyers posting guys. The plan is to trail them,not fight them, right? And since we want to trail them, any of you guys that can blend into the background or become invisible may want to remain out of sight. So if they see us, they will not become suspicious, when we follow them. Us clumsy types can follow a trail you leave us at a safe distance.”
Arien Saturday May 12th, 2001 8:44:33 PM
Seeing the situation with the buildings around this area Arien mutters to himself for a moment then decides just to catch up with the group and leave the wall climbing for when they find the people posting the flyers.
[OOC: Arien isn't the one who flies, he's the climber, Damocles is the nice big target in the sky ;p]
Garmik [Michael Tedin] d20+7=12 d20+7=15 Sunday May 13th, 2001 8:15:10 PM
Following Draax's suggestion, Garmik hides in shadows (Hide in Shadows check d20+7=DC12).
Following Kale's suggestion, Garmik quietly follows the group through the alley to Competition street, then circling the block in front of the Temple of Karinthis towards Gold street. (Move silently check d20+7=dc15).
Renik d20+12=14 d20+12=22 Monday May 14th, 2001 5:03:54 AM
Good, a local, that helps. He nods at Kale's suggestion, then nods again emphatically when Draax speaks. He whispers back, "I entirely agree. Stealth is the key here. Though it will mean moving a little more slowly, it is imperative we are not spotted if we are to trail these miscreants to their lair."
Following Kale's lead he sets off, flitting from shadow to shadow (Hide 2+12=DC14) and moving silently and surely down the empty street (Move Silently 10+12=22).
Damocles Monday May 14th, 2001 12:45:37 PM
Damocles moves higher, his wings continuing to pump. He tries to gain a better vantage from where he is.
"Oh to have eyes of an eagle. How easy things would be were I able to see from these heights," he murmurs to himself, hovering while scanning the area.
Kale Monday May 14th, 2001 5:00:16 PM
Kale nods at Renik's words as the group hurries along. "If they do spot us first," he adds, "no great harm done. Just act like we're tavern-hoppers: raise a heartfelt cry of 'To the Blue Ale!' and then stumble off to the south."
"The moment we're out of sight, of course, the sneakier folk can double back and catch the pamphleteers' trail, and the rest can follow a bit further behind. With stalkers on the ground, Damocles in the sky and Arien on the rooftops, we should be able to keep track of 'em then."
The Luck of Wardd (DM Jerry) d20=17 d20=19 d20=18 d20=8 d20=4 Monday May 14th, 2001 11:07:08 PM
The luck of Wardd must be with our heroes this night. The group follows Kale's plan and cuts through to Competition St. and then around the blocks in front of the temple. At the same time, Damocles wings it over the buildings rising higher until he can see the whole quarter (300' unless Damocles says he wants to be at a different height.)
The main group spots fresh flyers as they move across town. Then they spot a group of black dressed individuals at a bulletin board in front of Sparkles exchange. This might be them. One of them spots the group almost immediately. Damocles notices that they round the corner onto Gold Street. The party is in the courtyard in front of the temple some 80' away heading SE walking towards Sparkle's Exchange.
A loud whistle sounds through the night.
[Sorry. Forgot to send the map.]
Sunblaze Monday May 14th, 2001 11:36:42 PM
Sunblaze the second she sees the possible culprits runs out of hiding and shouts to her friends. "There! And they might be werewolves!" She smiles as she says that. She'd figured that out by herself, previous experiance told her that they, under the full moon become wolflike, which would explain why they wanted people to come at mid-night! It was a perfect plan. Althought there was a slight chance she was wrong, but when had she ever been wrong before? Sunblaze just started running (round action, x4, attack of opportunity for enemy, 120f if needed, pg. 143, Player's Handbook).
Garmik [Michael Tedin] d20+7=22 Tuesday May 15th, 2001 12:17:24 AM
Garmik remains in the shadows, allowing Sunblaze to move forward. (d20+7=DC22)
He remains silent and waits.
If the black cloaked figures run, he will follow in the shadows. If the defend themselves from Sublaze's onslaught, he will remain in the shadows.
Kale: *whimper* Tuesday May 15th, 2001 1:02:37 AM
Kale watched in helpless dismay as Sunblaze breaks from cover and charges toward the cloaked figures. "Lass, that's not...damn," he mutters weakly. Damage control time...
"Werewolfesh!" he shouts after her, staggering drunkenly into the middle of the street. "Thatsh a good one, lassh! C'mon, have another drink b'fore the bottlesh all gone!"
If Sunblaze can be brought under control, Kale will join her in lurching away down a side street, drawing along any other party members who have come into plain view. He'll lead the group in a rousing chorus of his favorite Dwarven drinking song (titled "Drink!") and make enough noise for any ten drunks, hopefully covering for the more subtle party members as they stalk their quarry.
Arien d20+6=19 Tuesday May 15th, 2001 1:43:12 AM
Wincing when Sunblaze goes hurtling down the street Arien quickly climbs a nearby building that is in the same area as Sparkle's. Then keeping low to avoid detection he moves to the end of the roofs overlooking Gold Street to see if he can spot the retreating figures.
Draax [Stan] Tuesday May 15th, 2001 2:59:59 PM
Draax sees the cloaked figures and tries to act normal; as they turn the corner he starts to walk a little faster attempting to get them back in sight. He looks up hoping to spot Damocles and see if he is moving in the same direction as the bad guys.
As Sunblaze shouts Draax turns and looks at her in surprise, as she begins to run after them the half-elf stops and actually starts to laugh. "I guess it's time for another plan because I just saw stealth and surprise go flying away."
More quietly he says, "At least they did not see some of you and do not know our full numbers. If we are lucky we still might be able to pull off the original plan. If they run home Damocles may still be able to follow them."
If Kale is unable to bring Sunblaze under control Draax will jog after her trying to keep her in sight, but also watching the shadows. If Kale does get her under control, Draax will join in the drunken song and dance.
Damocles Tuesday May 15th, 2001 4:52:52 PM
Snapping his wings back, Damocles drops in height from where he is, plummeting to get a better vantage point on the figures but trying to avoid any missile fire. He looks to his comrades, indicating where their quarry is, and hoping that they come along soon.
Where Did They Go? (DM Jerry) Tuesday May 15th, 2001 9:20:09 PM
Sunblaze rounds the corner of Sparkle's Exchange to see... nothing.
Damocles, diving to get to where he can see around the back side of Sparkle's Exchange, gets far enough to see one last figure wave his hands and disappear in a flash of light.
Flyers scatter everywhere, seemingly dropped at the last moment. Hundreds of them. The wind carries them away swirling down the street.
Garmik [Michael Tedin] Tuesday May 15th, 2001 10:05:26 PM
Garmik follows as the black cloaked figures go around the corner of the Sparkle exchange.
"Damn!" Garmik mouths silently to himself. Is Sunblaze purposely trying to sabotage our work, or is she truly touched in the head? Is it a curse? If so, it is a curse on us all.
In any case, if these are the flyers, they may be more dangerous scattered to the wind than posted to walls. He comes out of hiding and starts picking up the flyers and stuffing them into his backpack.
As he gathers the flyers, he says to the others, he says, "It seems we scared them off. Did they leave tracks?"
Sunblaze Tuesday May 15th, 2001 10:24:20 PM
As Sunblaze reaches the corner she almost screams, but it's not quite that loud. "ARG!!!!" She looks at the flyers and grabs some, shoving them into her bag. "We were sneaking and they saw us, but how... is there someone in the group? No... why would they do that?
"Don't bother for tracks, they used magic to escape, so unless we use magic to trace them... Next time we need to do this hidden... they saw those who weren't hidden. So who can't hide? Because I have this ring..." She was trying to speak, but her mind was racing. If it was werewolves then a lot was at stake... but werewolves were wonderful creatures. At one time she wanted to be bitten by one... but then the problem of not being able to change whenever. But what if they weren't werewolves? ... Maybe she should stop thinking so crazily.
Draax [Stan] Tuesday May 15th, 2001 11:08:51 PM
Catching up with the others and hearing how the cloaked figure disappeared, Draax looks around to make sure the group is alone. He looks over at Sunblaze, shaking his head. "Werewolves hmmm? Well, they know someone is after them now. Hopefully they are all not mages, they probably have devices that allow them to teleport."
He thinks for a few seconds. "Or maybe just disappear. If I heard right, you only seen one vanish. How do we know that the others are not still in the area standing near us invisible or hiding? Maybe we should give round one to them and get out of here. Unless someone has a better suggestion. They have the upper hand for now. They know that we are here and we have no idea where they are."
Draax puts his hand on his sword and starts scanning the area with his eyes, waiting for the others to agree to call it a night or to come up with another plan.
Kale Wednesday May 16th, 2001 2:05:27 AM
Kale drops his drunken ruse as Sunblaze disappears around the corner, and instead hurries to catch up with her and the others. He arrives in time to hear Draax's analysis.
"A lot more likely they can go invisible than teleport," the halfling opines in an overly calm voice that hints at suppressed tension. "So please assume one or more of them are hearing every word we say. Does anyone have magic on them to see the invisible?" He turns to Sunblaze, a bit reluctantly: "Any spells of that sort?" he asks her, his calm tones now the dint of great effort.
Renik d20=19 Wednesday May 16th, 2001 6:34:54 AM
Renik appears from the shadows where he has been hiding, and listens to the exchange. When Sunblaze speaks his eyes light up. Of Course! How devious! He turns to Kale and under his breath so only the halfling can hear he whispers, "I suspect Sunblaze is under the mental control of our enemies, quite possibly as a result of reading one of those flyers. She seems to be deliberately sabotaging our plans, and doesn't even seem aware she is doing so. We need to contact our holy friend as soon as possible to determine if Sunblaze is indeed afflicted. She should be able to cure her if so."
Renik is unwilling to name Patriarch Olatai in public, and hopes the halfling catches his meaning. He assumes the Patriarch also oathbonded the more recent recruits. He looks around, then leans down once more.
"However we may have a more immediate problem. If our enemies are in fact invisible and we have no means of detecting them, returning to our home ground becomes a fraught affair. The hunters become the hunted!"
Speaking to the group at large he asks, "Would it be possible to tell from the spell's visual manifestation what it was? Is anyone here sufficiently versed in the mystic arts to tell that?"
Another thought strikes him. Sunblaze said don't look for tracks... "Does anyone know how to track? That should tell us if our foes are still here or not!" He dashes off to the spot where the figures vanished to see if he can spot tracks leading to the point they disappeared, and if any lead on any farther. (untrained Track roll of 19.) He will prod the air with his sword where the tracks end, just in case. (OOC: If there is too much in this post I apologise! Renik will carry out any incomplete actions next time.)
Damocles Wednesday May 16th, 2001 5:54:02 PM
Damocles drops to the alleyway floor, retracting his wings. He shakes his head in silence and turns to look to Sunblaze. His eyes are heavy, and filled with sorrow. "Tomorrow you shall return to the church. When you have realized the error of your ways, when you are cured more. Return then. Now you are endangering not only all of us but all denizens of this free city."
To the rest of the group he then speaks. "They disappeared. As for being werewolves -- I assume this is the product of a fevered mind, for I saw nothing of the sort. Had I a moment more..."
"I assume it was teleportation magic, the tracing of which is far outside my realm. Remember that, for the future." He picks up a flyer blowing in the wind and places it in his satchel. Then he releases his wings again.
"I suggest we return to home. We are being paid to work and cannot do such on no sleep."
Arien d20+12=30 d20+7=14 Wednesday May 16th, 2001 10:25:48 PM
"Actually friends, there are many things that may appear to be magic, but are simple mundane items. Perhaps a flash pot that obscured the vision while the figure slipped into a sewer or nearby alley. Still, there is the possibility of teleporting, though I doubt they would all have it. Then there is still the option that that one person may have been merely a diversion while the others slipped away." Thus said, Arien moves back to where they first saw the people posting the flyers and follows the route they took up to where the last one disappeared, searching for anything that might indicate something other than magic. (First roll was a search check, second was a spot check.)
No Clues (DM Jerry) Wednesday May 16th, 2001 11:25:03 PM
No tracks are found.
Most of the flyers are collected.
It is getting late. More than one of you is found to be yawning as you have worked a full days and nights work. A bell tolls the third hour. (3AM)
Renik d20+4=15 d20+4=23 d20+4=6 d20+4=6 d20+4=18 Thursday May 17th, 2001 5:06:18 AM
"Very well, it looks as if no more can be achieved tonight. What say we return home and get some rest?"
If the rest of the party are in agreement Renik heads back using the route they came by, and gets some sleep.
On the journey back Renik will hang back a little from the party, listening carefully for the sound of following footsteps. (Listen DC15, 23, 6, 18: take as many rolls as required for the journey)
Draax (Steps) [Stan] Thursday May 17th, 2001 7:29:09 AM
Draax will stop at the Red Dragon Inn. He get a drink and goes to a dark corner. After about 15 minutes Steps can be seen coming out of the inn heading home for a quick nap before going to work.
Garmik [Michael Tedin] d20+8=26 Thursday May 17th, 2001 9:57:09 AM
Putting the last flyer into his pack, Garmik agrees, "Yes, it is getting late. I wish to know more about what happened here, but some among us seem would probably not endure a full night out well. And many of you have work tomorrow, correct? Just one thing before we go."
In order to determine what kind of magic the black-cloaked figures used, Garmik casts Detect Magic on the area where they disappeared. (Spellcraft check d20+8=DC26 to determine what kind of magic was used).
That done, Garmik will head back towards the Adventurer's quarter with the others. "The way back to the Bed and Bath is shorter from here if we go by the south side of the Arena. I will need to speak with the proprieter of the Bed and Bath tomorrow. Do you suppose it would be a problem to spend the night there tonight? It is a long walk across town to my regular residence."
Damocles Thursday May 17th, 2001 10:07:43 AM
"I think it would be too conspicuous were one of the workers to stay away for the full night," states Damocles. As he speaks he undergoes a transformation, his gleaming armor becoming a set of plain clothes, and his enormous wings transforming back into the cloak that he oft wears. "Let us return by the quickest route."
Arien Thursday May 17th, 2001 2:40:04 PM
"Indeed we should head back but when we near the B&B we should split up, returning in groups of two or three; and approach the place from different directions. Just to throw off any watchers."
Sunblaze-Sontra Thursday May 17th, 2001 7:06:09 PM
Sunblaze finishes with the fliers and then adorns her kilt, in the shadows. She then casts Invisibility on herself, becoming hidden. She walks ahead, running to the Bed and Bath. She opens the door and then goes quietly up to her bed. Lying down, she forgets to end the spell.
Sunblaze Disappears (DM Jerry) Friday May 18th, 2001 12:42:48 AM
Everyone heads back to the B&B. Sunblaze disappears after casting a spell. Nothing else is seen of her.
Garmik has a room both in the B&B and his own apartment so he has a choice of where to stay.
The next morning, the group seems to have slept in a bit. The B&B is not yet open, yet those not in the group seem to have already eaten and moved into the B&B proper. Everyone is a bit sleepy having only 3-4 hours sleep. However, it is a new day with new challenges.
Gullion (Renik) Friday May 18th, 2001 7:06:39 AM
Gullion rubs the sleep from his eyes and heads downstairs to grab some food before the first custom of the day. He grins leerily at his companions as they too appear. "A fine day, an' no mistake, am I wrong?" Even his normal endless banter is somewhat muted by tiredness. Still there is work to be done, and he settles down to his duties swiftly, keeping an eye out for his 'special' clients.
Steps (Draax) [Stan] Friday May 18th, 2001 12:48:01 PM
Steps comes down from his room and nods a greeting to Gullion and any of the other members that is in the area. The young human wipes the sleep from his eyes and sits down for a quick breakfast.
For the sake of those in the immediate area but is not of the group, Steps says. "I hope work is not eventful today, I was up most of the night over at the Red Dragon Inn. I guess I am not experienced enough to know my limit yet."
Mismor (Garmik) [Michael Tedin] Friday May 18th, 2001 4:00:32 PM
A man dressed in brightly colored clothes comes down the stairs, singing and humming. He cheerfully greets each of the patrons and the staff in the Bed and Bath with a "Hello! How are you doing this fine morning?" or "You look lovely this morning, lady!"
He carries a lute on his back and is dressed in a multicolored jacket of greens and blues and yellow hose.
"Pray tell, where might I find the proprietor of this establishment? Mismor is here to entertain the patrons." He then pulls out his lute and starts absent-mindedly strumming a tune.
Sontra-(Sunblaze) Friday May 18th, 2001 5:00:34 PM
Sontra awakens, as if he wasn't out last night. His ring kept his body running fine. He comes out dressed and ready for work. He goes over to his bar and starts to set things up. Getting glasses out, making sure the ale is ok.
Sontra looks at the group leave, then starts to watch the others, the ones who came here because they needed the money.
Tamosvar (Arien) Saturday May 19th, 2001 12:01:46 AM
With a flash of color Tamosvar bounds down the stairs and into the common room with a swish of his cape and the doffing of his hat he bows low to everyone in the room and cries happily, "Greetings dear friends, another fine day it is! To those who do not call themselves friends yet," the fop adds with a wink, "We shall have to work on that."
After sitting down to a quick breakfast Tamosvar circulates with the other workers getting to know them better. When reaching Mismor he gives a happy little shout and cries to him, "Now this is my kind of man! Knows his clothes well he does! Although the colors do seem a bit muted and you need some more accessories, but we shall work that!" Together the two make quite the impression, and eyesore. One a man in greens and blues and yellows playing a lute. The other in a bright blue shirt and crimson pantaloons. With a yellow sash and a deep blue oversized cap, and to top it all of a bright green plume rising out of a large, jauntily tilted hat.
Mismor the bard (DM Jerry) Saturday May 19th, 2001 9:42:42 AM
As mentioned above, it seems you have the run of the staff common room for the nonce and can talk freely.
Mismor is quickly hired as the house bard at 100gp a month.
Let us watch, brave readers, as our heroes discuss last night's venture and plan what they will do tonight to discover the ones planting the notices of charming. Let us also see if they can keep their eyes open during the day on 4 hours sleep.
Harry (Damocles) Saturday May 19th, 2001 3:10:19 PM
Harry offers up a quick prayer for a slow business day and takes up his place at the desk. If Sontra wanders his way he gestures for the barkeep to come over to him, a heavy glower on his face.
Steps (Draax) [Stan] Saturday May 19th, 2001 6:13:43 PM
Steps covers his eyes to shade himself from the brightness of Mismor clothing. He walks over and welcomes the new bard to the B&B. "The name is Steps and I am one of the bouncers, if any of the customers gives you any trouble. Let me know and I will handle it."
Steps smiles as he thinks to himself that 'this acting is getting easier everyday'.
Steps looks around in the common room and makes sure that no one except the group members are present. He looks over at Sontra, then moves close enough to him to speak without his voice traveling far. "This seems to be becoming a habit of me asking you the same question, but do you mind telling me why you reacted the way you did the later part of last night." Steps looks at Sontra waiting to see if he will answer the question.
Sontra (Sunblaze) Saturday May 19th, 2001 7:52:54 PM
Sontra looks at Steps. "I'm busy sir, you'll have to wait until I'm done here." He doesn't even look up at Steps. Just loud enough for Steps to hear he speaks. "I don't know you... remember..."
Sontra walks over to Harry. "What is it? Got a problem with me?" His voice is stern, but quiet. Sontra's twiddling with his fingers. The group was angry, he'd seen that coming, but maybe they should have looked around better. It didn't matter that Sunblaze had run at the Flyer Posters, they'd seen them already.
Tamosvar (Arien) Sunday May 20th, 2001 12:13:38 AM
After checking to see when he was due to the bar Tamosvar circulates a bit more with the people about the B&B. Then depending on his schedule he either heads off to take his turn behind the counter or heads up to catch up on as much sleep as possible so that he would be ready for the ventures this night held for him.
Steps (Draax) [Stan] Sunday May 20th, 2001 1:13:47 PM
Steps looks around the common area only seeing the group at this moment. Shaking his head and smiling at Sontra response, he realizes the truth of the statement. As he turns to head toward the door to resume his bouncer duties he says in a low voice. "That is correct, I do not know you."
Mismor (Garmik) [Michael Tedin] d20+6=20 Sunday May 20th, 2001 1:46:13 PM
Noticing that only those hired by Marcus are in the room, Mismor visibly relaxes. He flops down in a chair and sets the lute down. "By Wardd! It is too early in the morning for this persona. Mismor is a night person and our adventures last night only reinforced the feeling. Also, I suspect that I shall be playing late into the evening."
Mismor then picks up his lute and plays an upbeat, working song. (Perform check d20+6=DC 20)
To Tamosvar, he says "Accessories? With accessories such as yours, I would be dangerous just walking down the street. Perhaps we can go shopping later in the day. I may need a nap first."
More quietly to the rest of the group, "What of last night, then? Can we speak freely here? We must get Sunbl... er, Sontra to the Patriarch, correct? And what avenue shall we pursue now that the Men in Black know that we are looking for them?"
Harry (Damocles) Sunday May 20th, 2001 7:51:06 PM
"Shouldn't you be headed to church? You're a pious man and need to go daily for morning devotions" Harry states to Sontra. He looks directly at him, not a hint of joviality on his usually warm face. "Else... well. We need reliable workers here at the Bed and Bath, and if there's irregularity..."
Roger (Rond) Sunday May 20th, 2001 10:15:41 PM
Coming downstairs in the morning, Roger starts sweeping up and, setting the tables and the chairs up for the next day of business.
After getting the floor cleaned up, Roger approaches Sontra. "How are our supplies holding out? We may need to talk to Marcus, our supplier. See whether he has some half-baked plans for how we are going to do our jobs. We seemed to have lost our ability to subtley mix and blend our alcohol. This is not going to make good business for our employer. We may even require some of the bartenders to talk with each other, before presenting their drinks. Someone has to be in charge, but we seem to keep losing that idea. I might recommend going back to our employer, and updating him as to what is going on, along with a written report. What do you say?"
Sontra (Sunblaze) Sunday May 20th, 2001 10:55:23 PM
Sontra looks back at Roger. "Well we will need to inform our Supplier, and it seems I will need to go to the church this morning." He looks at Roger, with a plea. He mouths out 'Please, don't make me go back....' His head goes down. "I have done some things which I shouldn't have, but maybe it's because I'm getting used to this new change... which Damocles helped me out with. If you give me one more chance, the drinks won't be messed up again, and I won't get anyone hurt. Just come on..."
[OOC: Jerry, Can my items be entered yet? Or do I need to wait? I'm talking of course about the Catacombs items.]
Gullion (Renik) Monday May 21st, 2001 6:50:44 AM
Looking around to ensure there is no-one around to overhear, Gullion approaches Sontra in the common room, a frown upon his face. He seems reluctant to speak, but he steels himself. He must, for his own safety and the good of the mission.
"Sontra, we need to establish something. Forgive me if I speak plainly, but I feel it is necessary." He looks to the rest of the group. "We are alone here, and need not speak in code. What I have to say I must say clearly." He turns back to Sontra.
"Your actions last night put all of us in danger, and more importantly deviated from our core mission. Remember what our benefactor told us; gather information on the enemy, avoid confrontation if at all possible. Last night you seemed intent on fighting anything that moved. We attracted a great deal of attention, and alerted our foes to the fact that there is a group in pursuit of them. To my mind this constitutes an abject failure in our mission thus far."
"We are spies. Understand that. Regardless of how you may once have acted, how you may once have battled, your nature must be now one of subtlety. You must be as the shadow, silent, still, unnoticed. It is our job to gather information, and most importantly, to gather that information without the enemy being aware of us. That is what it is to be a spy. There is no glamour, no glory. I have trod this path for several years, and so have some experience of this life. It has taught one thing above all others; the loud spy is soon silenced."
"Now your behavior may be simply foolish, or there may be a more sinister force at work. It is possible your actions are being caused by the influence of the posters, and so we must visit the Patriarch to ensure you are not the victim of some malignant spell. If that proves to be the case then I apologize now for my harsh words; you are not in control of yourself. If, however, it turns out that your actions are entirely your own, then heed this, and heed it well; I will not be put in danger, and have the mission jeopardized by you again. If you are uncertain how to act then do nothing; follow those who have experience of these matters. If you follow this advice then perhaps we can succeed in our mission. If you do not I will be forced to lodge a formal protest with our benefactor about your behavior. You have asked for one more chance. That is precisely what you will be given."
He sits, and looks shaken and drawn. Working alone is _so_ much easier! He has never had to reprimand a colleague before (he has rarely had colleagues at all!), and it leaves a bitter taste in his mouth. Roger is correct, they do need someone to take the lead, and perhaps a return visit to Marcus is the best way to establish that. He suspects, if last night is anything to go by, that Kale would be a good candidate.
The B&B gets busy (DM Jerry) Monday May 21st, 2001 10:00:36 PM
During this second day of the reopening, the crowds come back. You deal with over one hundred guests at some points. All of you are stretched thin. Both bartenders are busy. There are over twenty five in the main pool at any time, with the rest in private pools and small group pools. Many order water treatments and perfumes, etc., from the "bath" menu. Incense abounds in some where bubbles and fake waves make others content.
(During the day you have chances to continue to talk privately to each other so feel free to address you want to address without fear of being overheard. We'll assume that you're being careful.)
Mismor (Garmik) [Michael Tedin] d20+6=18 Monday May 21st, 2001 10:17:15 PM
Mismor plays his lute throughout the day, taking breaks occasionally. For the most part, the songs are more of the quiet type, allowing people to relax in the pools. (Perform check d20+6=DC18) In spite of a slight weariness, the performance is not bad.
During breaks, Mismor will retreat to the staff room. If there is some privacy, he will address those whom he knows.
"Do we have a plan to find these Men in Black? Last evening was a colossal disaster, should we try it again or attempt a different approach? One suggestion I have is to try to find the posters during the day. Perhaps they post the flyers then as well? It is worth a chance, isn't it? After all, Wardd rewards those who make their own luck."
"Oh, since I have only recently joined this little band, I am unfamiliar with the um... protocols. To put it more plainly, who is in charge here?"
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Steven] d20+5=19 Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 1:03:17 AM
Sontra gets straight to his job, slightly angry about the group, but starts to realize they could be right. He mutters out loud as he pours some drinks. "The scrolls could be getting at me. Maybe they're right... Let's hope so."
Sontra decides to get some attention over to him, so he can drop a message to someone in the group. He quickly casts a spell (Unseen Servant), hoping none will see. Then he brings out a bottle, and sets a glass on the counter. Then he shouts out. "I will bet anyone here that I can make this glass float up, and then as if through magic pour some ale into this glass!" If anyone takes the bait he then holds the glass up to where he commands the Unseen Servant to go and then drops it, telling it to hold it. He then drops the bottle, having the creature grab it, and pour it into the glass.
Sontra quickly grabs on of his friends who are nearby and mutters something. "I'll need someone to take me to the Temple, I can't be trusted alone..." Then he goes back to his job of pouring drinks.
While pouring drinks to various people, Sontra listens for anything having to do with the Fliers, werewolves, or the Windhorn Hamleteers (+5 bonus to listen check).
Gullion (Renik) Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 6:29:34 AM
During a brief lull in the busy day, Gullion finds himself and the others alone in the common room. He speaks quietly and urgently to the others.
"Sontra is correct, someone should act as chaperone on the visit to the temple. Sontra, you mentioned Damocles helped you once before, perhaps you might prevail upon him to do it again?"
Looking to Damocles and the others he says, "Regarding tonight's sortie, whatever we do, it strikes me that we have one strength that we could capitalize on. Damocles' ability to fly is an invaluable asset, but could be made even more effective. If he could be rendered invisible, either by spell or potion, our spotter could not in turn be spotted. Perhaps in addition we could enquire at the Catacombs if any items are available which might enhance his eyesight, or allow him to communicate with us from a distance. Would the group be willing to invest together in such items? Or do any of us have spells or items that might assist? (I fear all I can contribute is a 100GP Catacombs voucher.)"
Satisfied they are still alone Gullion continues; "Mismor, I suspect hunting for the 'Men in Black' during the day would be fruitless. They seem to wish to remain unobserved if last night is anything to go by, and so are much more likely to work at night. Also, we will have precious little free time during the day if the last few hours are anything to go by! So what are we to do tonight? We never did investigate the Arena, should we start there? Hopefully our contacts will provide us with further leads, but failing that the Arena strikes me as the best starting point. Our only other real option is to stake out the location where we interrupted the MIBs last night, but I would have thought that has little chance of success. Aware of us, our quarry are hardly likely to return to the one spot where they know they have been observed."
He is about to return to work when a final thought strikes him. "Mismor, I am new here too, but from what I have seen there is no current group leader. I for one think that a group spokesman or decision maker in a crisis situation can only help. Does everyone else feel the same way or no? If we do decide to elect a leader, my vote is for Kale. He proved himself a quick thinker last night, and he is familiar with the city streets. What say the rest of you?"
(OOC: Sorry the last couple of posts have been so long, I'll try to keep them shorter now all that's off my chest!)
Roger (Rond) Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 8:57:40 AM
Roger begins to learn how to duck and weave in and amongst the patrons, as he learns how to take orders, and deliver orders.
He meets up with the others when there is a temporary break in the action. "Since Sontra is willing, he should probably go to the church and get checked out. If the same escort would escort him, I think that would work also. Though we as a group might want to be a little more clear as to WHEN, who is who. I've seen a tendency for us to mix and match our names, without too much thought as to when and what we are up to. We need to decide when, if any time, that we are going to change back and forth, and then stick to those names.
"Personally, I see very few instances where I need to change, nor instances where we as a group need to be our old selves.
"We could set up a party gold account, for the purposes of outfitting or getting equipment for the purpose of helping the party. It would have to be clear that these items would be returned, or traded, as necessary, depending upon party needs. I have not spent any of my money just yet, so I can make that available as a party account. If someone who is familiar with magic could look up what we would need to give our airborne friend some extra benefits. You might want to include something that would make him silent, in case he has a rough landing. I do not know if any others have more gold to contribute. I do have a holding area, that we could combine all this stuff to.
"I do not mind having a party spokesman/leader. Keep in mind, though, that Steps and I, and our missing compatriot, have been working together for a long time, so we might be a little more vocal than some."
(ooc I would say, do not worry about the posting, since it is all pertinant! ;) I'm more worried that your posts would force me to consider adding more to mine! ;)) (ooc can we have dick tracy watches?! ;) )
Steps (Draax) Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 2:15:02 PM
Steps listens to members talk about last night's catastrophe, he moves closer and voices his opinion.
"I do not think we need an overall leader of this group just yet. We are still getting to know one another and like Roger said, he is the only one that I have been working with for an extensive period of time. Although, I do think that we need someone to take charge of this situation. What I am trying to say is that with such a diverse group and depending on the situation and our experiences, every one of us might take the lead at one point. If this group stays together long enough eventually one of you or one of our previous members (if they return) will earn the right to be the group's overall leader. And although Kale has only been with us only one day, with his knowledge of the city and he seems to have the ability to think quickly, I have no problem with him taking the lead with this mission, if he wants it and everyone agrees."
Looking directly at Sontra Steps says, "But, I follow no one blindly. I do not expect a person to explain everything to me right away, but when things calm down, I would like to know why we did something that I did not understand. That way I can learn from their experience and I can also learn to trust the individual and their judgment. I do not want to follow the advice or decisions of someone that I have no faith in."
The humanly disguised half-elf looks around at the other members. "I like the idea of the silent invisible flying scout. I spent most of my money at the catacombs, but I am willing to donate as needed.
"Since we are almost back to square one Gullion's idea of checking the arena is my vote too."
Tamosvar (Arien) Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 3:08:52 PM
Although busy for most of the day Tamosvar does find a few moments to slip away and confer with the rest of the group on the matter of the disaster last night. After listening to the rest of the group put forth their suggestions and complaints Tamosvar adds a suggestion as well. "Perhaps one of us more skilled in the art of discretion could have a talk with Sontra? I think there is little to gain by a confrontation. Most Bards and Wizards aren't used to having to sneak about so perhaps he is simply confused as how to act and a simple conversation highlighting the advantages of knowing what and when to do something would have as good an effect as taking him to someone."
Harry (Damocles) Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 4:27:32 PM
"I agree about spying from a distance... Let me see what I have in my change purse. I doubt it's enough for anything... Dear me." Harry murmurs something about running out of money too quickly.
"When's payday around these parts?" He looks around for a moment. "Ah... Can someone ensure that Sontra makes his way to church today? I think that should be foremost on our platter... and I'm busy at the desk."
The End of a Busy Day (DM Jerry) Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 9:53:32 PM
More staff has been hired so that none of you have to work more than eight to nine hours each day. You also get one day off each five day week. All of you have been placed on the day shift so that you are off slightly after suppertime, letting you do some planning and perhaps get some more sleep before it gets late.
The hours tick away and soon you are cooking up a fine stew in your quarters. It is an hour or so before sundown and a good five hours before midnight.
(Again, for simplicity, feel free to just speak. We'll assume that you are doing it in such a way that you are not overheard. From now on, unless I state differently, you may talk freely without worry of being overheard.)
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Steven] Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 10:06:40 PM
Sontra, knowing that his job was done, for a short time anyway, goes and relaxes. The day turned out well, not much happened in the flier problem, but that didn't mean anything. "You guys, can one of you take me? I've got my little ring her, but I know that you all need some sleep..." He stands up, and quickly looks around. "We should hurry, as we don't want to keep the priests up all night..." He grabs a couple of things and then waits for someone to go. "Everyone else sleep... you'll need it."
Mismor (Garmik) [Michael Tedin] Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 10:38:53 PM
Mismor finishes his shift with an upbeat song, suitable for dancing, as the evening shift begins.
"As for a group leader, I have rolled my dice and trusted to luck that each person in this group would be trustworthy. I am willing to have er... almost anybody take the position of leader. Seniority might be an appropriate method of choice."
"I agree with the idea of staking out the men posting the flyers where we saw them last night. Perhaps they will return. Perhaps we will get another stroke of luck like our tip last night."
"Before going to the Gold Quarter, Sontra needs to tend to her uh, his religious duties. I'm willing to escort him. Is anyone else willing to come along? I hope someone is willing, as I am not sure which church we are speaking of. Should we go shopping on the way, Tamosvar?"
Steps (Draax) [Stan] Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 11:46:57 PM
Steps finishes his shift and takes a nap to get himself refreshed for tonight's outing. If no one has escorted Sontra to the church by the time he wakes up, he will volunteer to serve as escort.
Gullion (Renik) Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 6:00:17 AM
Gullion nods at the various comments about leadership. "It seems we are not entirely of one mind on this subject. Perhaps as Steps says it is a little too early to choose. Shall we leave the issue until we have spent a few more nights out together?"
After a long day, Gullion is relieved to finally get some rest. Though he is used to going for extended periods with minimal sleep, he knows that one can only perform at one's peak when sufficiently rested. He takes the opportunity to grab some shut-eye before darkness falls, and the group make their preparations to take to the streets once more.
Rond Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 3:48:04 PM
"I can accompany Sontra, with Mismor, if no one else is interested. But I may have to bow out of the night activities, in order to catch up on sleep."
Harry (Damocles) Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 11:45:56 PM
"It's my church. The Church of Alemi. Rond, if you really feel tired, see what the Patriarch can do for you there to alleviate it. He understands what we're going through, and should aid a friend in need."
Harry ponders something for a moment and pulls the flier out of his satchel. "Wherever they're making these fliers, they need adhesive, or nails. For quite a few too. But I think that's beyond the point. Should we just sweep the city again tonight? They probably won't hit the same spot twice..."
He thinks for a moment more, scratching his chin. "What if I ask the Stars of Midnight?"
At the Cathedral of Truth (DM Jerry) Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 11:54:51 PM
Several of the group take Sunblaze to the Cathedral of Truth to be sure she is in her right mind. You travel much the same path as last night but going south past gold quarter through Wealthy Quarter and onto the island where the Cathedral stands. It is an overwhelming sight functioning as church and training center for clerics of both Alemi and those of general faith.
Inside, you ask for Oratai and you are told she is unavailable. When you insist, they take your names to her aid and they find to their surprise that you are on her shortlist. She leaves a meeting and meets you in a side chamber. Once she hears what you need, she grows very serious and asks Sunblaze for permission to examine her magically. She then casts several spells and says, "I find nothing."
She pauses. "There is only one way to be sure. The Sword of Justice. Hold on."
She leaves for a bit and then returns with a jeweled sword that glows with a holy might when pulled from its scabbard. "If you're enchanted in any way other than the Oathbonding you took with me, this will let us know. If so, it will hurt you some. So brace yourself."
She lowers the flat of the blade to your head, her eyes turning silver as she wields the silver blade. Sunblaze feels the magic course through her system. Yet she feels no pain.
"She's ok." Oratai says. Now what brought this on?"
(You may answer if you've decided to go along.)
Gullion (Renik) Thursday May 24th, 2001 6:05:33 AM
Before the others leave with Sunblaze, Harry suggests contacting the Stars of Midnight. "It certainly can't hurt," comments Gullion. "They seem to spend a fair amount of time in the city at night, perhaps they have learned something. You never know," he says, scratching his chin. "Those masked figures we saw chasing them may even have some link to the mystery."
"If you folks are happy to go with Sontra, I will see if I can pick up some magical supplies for tonight's mission, if you are happy to co-fund it. As I said, I'm afraid I can only contribute 100 GP, what can the rest of you chip in?"
(OOC: If you could let me know how much (if anything!) you are prepared to contribute I'll go pick up the items mentioned before from the Catacombs, then perhaps we can leave any money left over as a group kitty? So far (in order of priority) I'll be getting a potion (or two) of invisibility, something to provide sharp eyesight, something for remote communication, something to silence Damocles (might interfere with the communication though), and a bunch of CRL potions. Obviously I'll only get as much as I can afford. If anyone wants to add anything to that list, or wants something removed, please let me know. Perhaps we should sort this out by email so as not to clog up the board too much.)
With funds gathered Gullion heads off to the Catacombs, makes what purchases he is able, then returns to the Beer and Bath in time to grab a further 40 winks, remove his disguise and prepare his equipment for that night's mission.
Roger (Rond) Thursday May 24th, 2001 9:30:41 AM
Prior to departure he says to Gullion, "You are going to have to just price the items, and get back to me. All my gold is in storage, and you'll need a note from me to to release it. It is going to be easier if you price everything, and then we as a group can decide what we need. Once I see the price list, I'll be able to fill in more about how much is covered. Also check into what it might be like to special craft a ring that does all the functions we're looking for, rather than trying to buy the effects individually. For potions, make sure you get the duration of the potion."
Once Roger makes it to the temple, and after Oratai is finished, he states, "We wanted to make extra sure about Sondra. Our first night out has not been as successful as we might want." Roger sighs, "We went to look around in the arena. As we approached the arena, we happened to disturb 'The Stars of Midnight'. They were on their way out, and just happened to be on top of the wall as we approached, and we noticed them. Sontra hailed them, the rest of us tried our best to disappear into shadows and cover any sudden attacks. When the Stars announced who they were, we don't know them, they told us they did not want to be bothered, and asked to let them pass since they would not bother us. Sontra proceeded to attack them, rather then let them pass. As a result, a wall of fire was put up, causing quite the disruption. When the party regathered, and asked that Sontra be more careful about outright attacking people, he became upset with the party. We then got a lead on people posting more fliers. We quickly headed that way, in order to intercept and see what they were up to. I'm pretty sure most of the party intended -- just intended to observe. But before we could even get in place, Sontra calls out that they are werewolves, and goes on the attack again. Our prey quickly disappears, and it is unsure whether they might have gathered who we are. Several of us are upset with all this rashness about him. I'm not sure if any kind of secondary Oath can help us out with this rashness. This was also why we felt there was an outside chance that there was some kind of outside influence." If Oratai has further questions about what we were doing, Roger will fill her in as necessary. If Mismor or Sontra/Sunblaze has other points to add to his story, Roger pauses to allow Mismor or Sontra/Sunblaze to add their points.
Mismor (Garmik) [Michael Tedin] Thursday May 24th, 2001 10:43:22 AM
Before Mismor, Sontra and Roger go to the Cathedral of Truth, Mismor says to Guillon: "I have 100GP credit at the Catacombs, but the rest of my money is hidden and I have not counted it in a while. I can get back to you later with a precise figure, if you wish. I do not suspect that I will have a great deal to add."
To Harry, Mismor says: "If the people chasing the Stars last night have any connection to those posting the flyers, then this may be an excellent place to ask questions. Even if there is no connection, it would be a good idea to find out if they know anything."
More quietly to the group, almost in a whisper, "I am having a hard time distinguishing everybody in their disguises. Which one of you is Kale?"
Once the smaller group arrives at the Cathedral of truth and Roger gives his account of the previous night, Mismor adds, "That pretty much sums up the events. The only thing I would add is that the posters dropped a number of flyers, which we were able to pick up. Should we do anything with these?"
Steps (Draax) [Stan] Thursday May 24th, 2001 4:58:05 PM
Steps wakes up feeling refreshed and well rested. When he notices that others have taken Sunblaze to the church he feels relieved. Waiting around with those that remained, he goes over a few things in his mind. He wonders why he did not think of Damocles using his newfound friend as an information source.
Looking at the others he says. "If our flying holy man can get some information from his friend, then we might have a better place to start than the arena. If not, then the arena will have to do."
Step relaxes and mentally prepares himself for the transformation into his Draax personality.
Harry (Damocles) Thursday May 24th, 2001 8:01:25 PM
"Well," states the priest, swinging his feet off the table. "I shall see what the Stars of Midnight can offer me, I suppose. I'm sorry that I have nothing to donate to the collective coffers. When payday comes round there'll be something for me to give."
He pauses before the door. "Any of the rest of you care to come along and meet this band?"
Sontra(Sunblaze) [Steven] Thursday May 24th, 2001 8:06:36 PM
Sontra looks at his friends. "Here... it'll hide you from prying eyes, but can only be used twice a day, so use it wisely. AND DON'T BREAK IT!!!" Her voice is stern as she hands over her ring of chameleon power. "I've had that for most of my life, and it means a lot to me... so just be careful."
Sontra looks at Oratai without a smile, or even happiness within her face. "The group believes that because of one of these flyers I have been acting rash, and now I have come to realize that is probably the reason. Although I cannot be sure if it is my foolishness, I surely hope not, as the group will not stand for that."
Oratai (DM Jerry) Thursday May 24th, 2001 9:35:08 PM
Oratai looks sternly at Sontra. "Young woman, there is no magical enchantments upon you other than your oath. Any bad decisions you have been making have been made by you and you alone."
The high priest of the lead god of The Wold cocks her head to one side and then says, "Not everyone is born to this life of adventuring Sunblaze (using her real name). I can release you from you oath and you can go your own way if you wish. You certainly don't wish to be a hindrance to your party young lady.
"Or you can remain and control your impulses. But know this. Marcus doesn't stand for incompetence. Discipline yourself before it is too late.
"Now I must go back to my meeting. One final word folks, I am here for you, but not on a daily basis. I may not be able to see you on a moment's notice the next time. You can set up a meeting with me or Marcus by leaving a message for "the chameleon" at Waldo's Armor Shop. Waldo will have a return message for you with a time and place within 4 hours. I wish you well. Good day!"
And with that she smiles a serious smile, lays one hand on Sunblaze's shoulder as an encouragement and then departs. You are left to find your own way out.
[Remember to contact informants/friends, etc. or to Gather Information, send me an email with 5 dice rolls made here on the board with a private message.]
Mismor (Garmik) [Michael Tedin] Friday May 25th, 2001 3:35:37 AM
Garmik is impressed with the sternness and authority of Oratai. "Well, I suppose there is nothing left but to meet up with the others. I wonder if Damocles has found the Stars and if he found anything out from them?"
Steps (Draax) [Stan] Friday May 25th, 2001 8:57:33 AM
Steps looks up as Harry stops at the door. Tired of sitting around waiting he decides to go with him to see the lady Midnight. "Hey, Harry I will go with you if that is OK." With Harry/Damocles's permission, Steps/Draax will join him and anyone else that goes along.
Renik (Gullion) Friday May 25th, 2001 12:43:04 PM
Removing the last of his makeup, Renik looks up as Harry calls out his offer. "Yes, good idea, Harry, if you don't mind I'll tag along. Are you not going to remove your disguise before we depart? The Midnights only know you as Damocles."
Round Midnight (DM Jerry) Saturday May 26th, 2001 10:27:35 AM
One group returns from the Cathedral of Truth while the other goes in search of Midnight. In the meantime, no one gets much sleep (-1 to attacks for this evening's activities) and midnight approaches.
[Remember to do anything with contacts/friends and Gather information checks, which includes contacting Midnight, you must send me 5 gather information checks. If more than one person is going, there may be a penalty or bonus to that roll depending on the situation. Only the person who knows the contact should roll. Semd me what you want to do via email as I instructed earlier. :) ]
Mismor (Garmik) [Michael Tedin] Saturday May 26th, 2001 6:12:30 PM
Mismor is tired after a short night and a long day, so he gets some sleep at the Bed and Bath. Hopefully, others will find something out this night.
Roger (Rond) Saturday May 26th, 2001 7:57:11 PM
As the group travels back from the church, Roger speaks up, "Sontra. Since it appears that you were not under the influence of anything magical, let us make a little deal. I hold no ill will towards you, and know that you are attempting to help. Why don't you chosse to work with either Steps or me. Then, anytime you want to do anything, you run your ideas, or thoughts through us, and let us talk things over, BEFORE you do anything. In situations that are hot, like battle, you help to protect our backs, and allow either of us to direct you. Taking only those actions to make the battle come to an end, when told to do so." Roger will then wait for her/his response.
Once the group gets back to our quarters, Roger says, "Since we went to the church, and since I know I'm tired, I'd recommend that we three sleep tonight, and let the others make what contacts they can."
Renik Sunday May 27th, 2001 4:43:13 PM
Renik leaves with Damocles to talk to Midnight. He is mindful, however, of his own conmtacts, and of any news they may have for him. He is also concerned by the hour; he does not wish to spend so long talking to informants that they are unable to visit the arena this evening.
(OOC: You have my rolls, right Jerry? Visiting Midnight doesn't preclude my own researches does it?)
Tamosvar (Arien) Sunday May 27th, 2001 7:59:00 PM
Deciding to leave contacting Midnight to the others, Arien spends part of the night pursuing some of his magical studies, then turns in for a good night's sleep (hopefully).
Sontra (Sunblaze) Sunday May 27th, 2001 9:27:02 PM
Sontra looks at the people who are among him. "It isn't my choice to stay... you, my... friends shall choose and I shall go with what you want." He looks preoccupied, his mind reeling.
Draax [Stan] Monday May 28th, 2001 12:23:34 AM
Draax joins Damocles and the others as he contacts his new friend for information. Draax hopes that the information will give them a solid lead or leads, but his main reason for going along is just to have something to do.
Harry (Damocles) Monday May 28th, 2001 7:16:10 PM
Damocles ponders for a moment as he stands at the door and turns back to those coming with him. "I don't think... actually... that we should go tonight. They didn't know anything yesterday and probably wouldn't today. And they had more pressing matters on their hands." He sits, leaning his chair against the wall. "Let's just travel tonight to the arena again, by a different route this time."
Making Plans (DM Jerry) Monday May 28th, 2001 9:15:03 PM
Some sleep, some plan, some don't. Read on as our heroes continue to plan their next move.
[We're all over the place guys. Make a decision as to what to do. :)]
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Steven] Monday May 28th, 2001 9:54:40 PM
Sontra looks upon the group. "Who is awake enough to go? Do you guys need to rest? If some don't then we can go, while the rest stay and sleep." He smiles faintly, he'd messed up twice, and was going to do whatever they said.
Renik (Gullion) d20+12=17 d20+12=19 d20+4=16 d20+2=6 Tuesday May 29th, 2001 9:17:55 AM
Biting back an exclamation of annoyance, Renik decides it's about time things got organised.
With all of the party in one place he says; "Enough of this. We have very little time to track down the perpetrators of the poster campaign, and staying here and sleeping isn't going to get the job done. We are going to get tired. Better that than we fail in our mission.
"Everyone needs to change out of their day disguises and into their true personas right away, and then we're leaving for the arena. ALL of us. We can contact our informants at other times, but we must take advantage of the few hours of night we have to attempt to track our enemies down. Everyone ready? Right, let's go."
And without waiting for arguments or excuses he sets off, jaw set and fists clenched, following the same path they took the night before.
(OOC: Renik will head for the arena whether the others follow him or not. He will move silently (DC 17) and in shadow (DC19), keeping a lookout for danger (Listen DC16, Spot DC 6)
Damocles Tuesday May 29th, 2001 12:22:13 PM
Damocles nods to Renik and says "I shall follow you from above." He heads to his room and opens the window, grabbing his mace before he leaves. Leaping out, his wings unfurl and lift him skyward as his day to day garb transforms into the metallic armor that is its true appearance. Damocles pumps his wings to carry him skyward, examining the ground below for the posters.
Draax Tuesday May 29th, 2001 2:51:59 PM
When he finds out that they are not going to see the informants, Draax is a little disappointed and he goes and sits down, waiting for the others to return from the church. When everyone is together he listens to Renik make his speech before exiting. He then watches as Damocles takes to the air. "I guess that's settled, the arena it is." Without waiting to see who else comes along, Draax leaves the building going in the direction of the arena. Not being one to hide, Draax quickly over take those hiding in the shadows. He will take the exact same path that they took the other night before they got diverted.
Off to the Arena (DM Jerry) Tuesday May 29th, 2001 9:07:54 PM
Renik, Damocles and Draax begin to leave for the Arena to check it out. (300xp for Renik for his leadership.) It is a windy night with cloud cover. It looks as if there might be a storm later. Damocles finds going west to be difficult into the wind, but he manages for now.
Perhaps the others will follow and go on this excursion as well.
[Damocles I need 4 spot checks please in your next post.]
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Steven] Tuesday May 29th, 2001 10:26:27 PM
Sontra quickly follows his friends, taking the rear, and muttering to himself about how chilly it was. "I hope Damocles finds nothing... or maybe something..." Her voice can barely be heard, but what can, is indecisive.
Roger (Rond) d20+11=15 d20+11=27 Tuesday May 29th, 2001 10:33:55 PM
"I personally think that changing out of our disguises creates too many discrepancies. But I will follow."
As soon as they are out the door, Rond will do his best to disappear (DC=15) and follow quietly (DC=27).
Arien Tuesday May 29th, 2001 11:40:56 PM
Arien changes quickly out of the frippery of his disguise and dons his adventuring gear. Then he slips out the window of his room and moves quickly to catch up with his friends.
Renik (Gullion) d20+12=25 d20+12=22 d20+4=8 d20+2=17 Wednesday May 30th, 2001 4:20:10 AM
Glancing back Renik spots the others following. Phew! I'm not alone on this excursion then, he thinks to himself.
He continues to make his way towards the arena, doing his best to avoid getting spotted (Hide DC 25) or overheard (Move silently DC 22). Again, he will keep a close ear (Listen DC 8) and eye (Spot DC17) out for danger.
However it does occur to him that all this prudence is likely to be for naught if Draax insists on marching out in front. He had thought they had agreed that the more light of foot would lead the way, with the others following behind, so as to minimise the risk of any further encounters like last night. Still, that is something they can discuss later. There is no point drawing even more attention to themselves by arguing in the street.
Draax Wednesday May 30th, 2001 9:27:34 AM
Draax continues to walk openly in a casual manner as they head towards the arena. He knows that trying to hide and move without being noticed is slow going. He walks at a pace that allows him to casually look up and try to see Damocles. He does not look around for his shadowy comrades, he just figures that they are somewhere near. If nothing else happens before they reach the arena his will stop and wait for his comrades at the entrance to the park.
Damocles d20+4=9 d20+4=24 d20+4=7 d20+4=24 Wednesday May 30th, 2001 10:51:47 AM
Damocles scours the ground from his aerial vantage point, looking back and forth. Although he cannot always peer into the deepest shadows, his eyesight becomes keen and focused after some time in the air. (DC: 9, 24!, 7, and 24 again... unreal). He tries to focus in and more carefully make out what it is he sees.
Arien d20+7=25 Thursday May 31st, 2001 1:43:26 AM
Arien catches up to Draax and saunters along with him. As he walks he keeps an eye out for Renik, Damocles and anything else out of the ordinary. (Spot check roll.)
Onward (DM Jerry) Thursday May 31st, 2001 8:58:42 PM
(assuming that everyone is along) The party makes it through Dragon Quarter without incident to the gate at the edge of Gladiator Park. The wind is definitely gusting. The scene before you suddenly gets darker as a cloud hides the light of the 2nd moon.
Draax Friday June 1st, 2001 12:05:31 AM
Draax stops at the edge of park and motions for Arien to do the same. When the others catch up with them he says, "I don't like how it suddenly got dark, but it may work to our advantage. Now that we are here, I think it would be better to sneak into the arena, especially after last night's debacle?"
Draax stays low while he is talking. He tries to be alert, looking and listening for anything that may be out of place. After everyone says the piece and unless a better idea come up, Draax will let those that work well in the shadows go ahead a little ways before he starts into the park.
Damocles Friday June 1st, 2001 12:47:01 AM
Spotting nothing on the ground but shadows and tricks of light, Damocles climbs higher up as they near the park, keeping an eye on the rest of the party and ready to provide support from his aerial vantage.
Renik d20+12=17 d20+12=16 d20+4=11 d20+2=6 Friday June 1st, 2001 4:34:42 AM
Renik nods at Draax's words. Sneaky it is. He peers up and just makes out the form of Damocles overhead, moving higher. He hopes this wind doesn't get any stronger, or flying is going to become difficult.
He sets off using the shadows to his advantage (DC 17) and treading as softly as he is able (DC 16). He keeps his ear tuned (DC 11) and eyes peeled (DC 6) for danger.
(OOC: Gaah, what a hopeless set of rolls!)
Sontra (Sunblaze) d20+4=5 Friday June 1st, 2001 10:28:19 AM
Sontra walks along, following friends, and listening carefully to their words. When he hears hide, he hides, trying to slink into the shadows, but instead tripping over his own clothes. As he hits the ground he muffles a shout and then tries to pick himself up again. He quickly casts Invisiblity on himself, disappearing.
Sontra follows along, behind them. Trying to cover their backs, and stay out of trouble.
Arien d20+12=29 d20+6=25 d20+7=13 Sunday June 3rd, 2001 12:36:50 AM
Nodding his agreement to Draax's words, Arien wraps his cloak about himself a little tighter, silently glides into the shadows, and seems to disappear there. Sticking to the shadows he makes his way closer to the Arena while keeping an eye out for anything. (Move Silently roll, Hide roll, and Spot roll.)
What Damocles Spots (DM Jerry) Sunday June 3rd, 2001 10:20:03 AM
Damocles as he rises higher realizes that he is going to be shortly in danger of lightning as a storm is beating up against the cliffs west of town and rising up the cliffs as Woldian storms are sometimes wont to do. Especially when Donyra has given them instructions.
However, as he looks around he spots 3 dark figures nailing flyers to the bulletin board by the entrance to The Golden Arena. He also spots movement to the northwest across from the entrance of the Arena.
It now seems as if they, having completed nailing the flyers on, that they now pull them off and then begin nailing them on again. Strange.
Roger (Rond) d20+12=28 d20+12=18 d20+1=11 Sunday June 3rd, 2001 11:09:04 PM
Roger moves deeper into the Arena. He continues doing his best to stay to shadows (DC=28) and being quiet (DC=18). He keeps at least one eye peeled, in order to see trouble (DC=11) (ooc though he doesn't have a peeler on him ;) ).
Renik (Gullion) d20+12=17 d20+12=14 Monday June 4th, 2001 7:03:25 AM
Glancing up nervously at Damocles and the increasingly violent weather, Renik notices Damocles gesticulating towards the Arena entrance (OOC: hope this is OK, tell me off if I've overstepped the boundaries!).
He crouches down, and keeping well hidden (DC 17) and inching forward as quietly as he is able (DC 14) he finds a spot to observe the flyposters. He intends to wait and see what they do next. He gestures at the others to keep well back, and remain as quiet as possible.
(OOC: Jerry, Assuming I've not been spotted due to more appalling die rolling, how far is Renik from the posters?)
Draax Monday June 4th, 2001 6:56:45 PM
Draax moves into the area cautiously. He gives those who are hiding a big enough head start, which should allow them enough time to come back and warn him before he runs unknowingly into trouble. If he is warned about the guys posting the flyer, he will stay away from their immediate area ensuring that they do not see him until he is contacted by one of the guys who are scouting ahead.
Sontra (Sunblaze) Monday June 4th, 2001 8:26:18 PM
Sontra, seeing the figures, quickly casts Invisibility on himself and then whispers to Draax, "I'm going ahead, but I will leave them alone." He waits for an answer, then starts off, staying close to the group.
Damocles Monday June 4th, 2001 10:26:49 PM
Damocles motions towards where the posters are before snapping his wings back and beginning a dive towards them, hoping that his flight remained relatively silent. As soon as he is within range he unleashes a powerful spell of paralysis on the furthest poster. (Hold Person DC 16).
Arien Monday June 4th, 2001 11:00:47 PM
Still sticking to the shadows, Arien creeps his way deeper into the Park, heading towards the Arena through the deepest of the shadows.
Perspective (DM Jerry) Tuesday June 5th, 2001 4:31:52 AM
[Yes. It is very important to keep your posts in sequential order. Assume that the posts above yours happen before yours do. It helps the story to flow better. So if Damocles has not posted yet, you cannot assume that he will do a certain thing. He might not.
Therefore the specifics of most of today's posts are void and null, although I will allow general progression towards your target which is across the park still and several hundred feet away.
You may post today your general approach with respect to the party (getting into formation, sneaking, boldly running ahead, etc.).
Roger moves towards the Arena sneaking. He is with the party. (Not in the Arena yet, my friend, just in the forest around it and moving towards it.)
Renik also sneaks forward and is with the party. He warns the party to stay together and be careful.
Draax also moves forward carefully, slightly behind the party so that his lack of sneaking skills doesn't harm their efforts.
Sunblaze lets Draax know what he is doing, goes invisible, and moves slightly ahead of the rest of the party.
Damocles finds it hard to dive forward as the wind buffets him back. He can dive, but it it mostly straight down towards the party. (You may either dive now and travel at a lower level, or hold and dive later when you arrive.)
Arien also sneaks forward with the party.
[There will be one more post of approaching the posters describing how you approach that area. Then the following post you will be in range.]
[Note that it is my final week of school. I'm pretty burnt out. Just barely hanging on. So please hold all Gather Information checks until I return from vacation about the 28th. I'll allow multiple checks at that time. I leave for vacation on the 15th. Todd will run the game for us from then until my return about the 28th. Feel free to take the initiative to email those who are not posting. I don't have the time right now. Sorry. Todd if you get to a point where you could possibly take over early to give me a break, I'd appreciate it.]
Renik (Gullion) d20+12=13 d20+12=25 d20+4=22 d20+2=17 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 5:54:16 AM
Renik continues to sneakily approach the posters until he is within bow range. He turns back to urge the others to keep together and silent, then grimaces as a kicked pebble clatters against the cobbles (Move Silent DC13: Aaargh! What is going on with these dice!), and hopes that the wind will cover the noise. He makes especially certain that he is as well hidden as possible (Hide DC25).
Finding a spot that offers a degree of cover he crouches down and unslings his bow, notches an arrow, and strains to discern anything the flyposters might be saying (Listen DC22) or doing (Spot DC17).
Roger (Rond) d20+12=24 d20+12=19 d20+1=7 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 9:37:23 PM
Roger continues sneaking forward, moving as stealthfully (DC=24) as he can, trying to keep as little noise (DC=19) in his step as he can. As he starts to approach the posters, he'll start looking around in the shadows to see if they have any lurkers (Spot DC=7).
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Steven] d20+3=11 d20+5=21 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 11:42:29 PM
Sontra, watching his friends go forward, slides along the ground, attempting to move quickly, but silently (Dexterity, +3 bonus=11). He tries to unsheath his longsword, smiling as it leaves its scabbard.
He awaits a proper moment before moving close enough to his enemies. When he is within hitting distance, he waits for his allies to make the first move. He watches and listens (1 rank, 2 wisdom, 2 racial=21) carefully, as his opponent moves the posters.
Damocles Tuesday June 5th, 2001 11:45:38 PM
The priest shifts to a lower level, but does not dive altogether. He is still trying to attempt to close with the flier posters before he has to reveal himself, hoping that the aerial vantage will allow him to cut off any that try and flee.
Thunderstruck! (DM Jerry) Tuesday June 5th, 2001 11:50:50 PM
With a mighty whoosh, the storm rises over the edge of the city with a lot of magic in it. The wind stops for a moment, causing Damocles to have to catch his balance in the air for a second.
Then......... BOOOOOOOOOMMMMMM! Thunderstrikes immediately after the sky is lit up with chain lightning, blue with ozone.
Then the storm begins. Rain slices down. Wind buffets cause sheets of water to cross from west to east. Trees bend. It is impossible to communicate out loud without yelling.
The party, still a bit away (only two posts), works their way around the huge arena's outer curve, distance distorting due to the storm. Any moment now... they will be there. Any second now... Any second....
[encourage each other to post via email please.]
Sontra (Sunblaze) Wednesday June 6th, 2001 12:04:36 AM
Sontra, taken aback by the wind, quickly drops to the ground, but seeing as nothing was hit, gets back up again. He made a shush movement to his friends, only realizing that he couldn't be seen.
Sontra runs forward, moaning about not being able to hear. He holds his sword tightly, not wanting to lose it, as it is his most prized object...
Arien d20+6=23 d20+12=31 Wednesday June 6th, 2001 12:59:23 AM
When the thunder crashes the area Arien grimaces and shakes his head in annoyance. Then he continues forward toward the Arena and the posters. (Hide and Move Silently rolls respectively, although I doubt the second one will be needed.)
Renik d20+2=20 d20+12=27 Wednesday June 6th, 2001 8:02:41 AM
Doing his best to keep the posters in view through the driving rain (Spot DC20) Renik continues to approach, bow in hand, attempting to keep to whatever shadows and cover are available amidst this flashing lightning (Hide DC27). Given the horrendous racket the storm is making he abandons his attempts to move silently, favouring instead speed as he flits from hiding spot to hiding spot.
Roger (Rond) (where are my earmuffs!) d20+12=17 Wednesday June 6th, 2001 8:43:08 AM
As Roger continues to close with the flyer posters, he looks for ways to keep trees and nature cover in the way. Since there is lightning now going off, he fears about his location being given away in the full light of a lightning strike. He continues to move in shadows as best he can. Though he is forced to slow down his approach (DC=17), in order to go stock still every time lightning strike happens.
Draax Wednesday June 6th, 2001 6:13:46 PM
Draax continues to move slowly as he moves in the direction of his hiding comrades and the arena. With his sword and shield ready, he stops and bends low each time the lightning flashes. He counts to three and then continues his slow march toward the arena.
There They Are! (DM Jerry) Wednesday June 6th, 2001 9:41:49 PM
Suddenly a flash of lightning reveals the posters dead ahead about 80'.
One turns your way as the lightning strikes as if looking for something, then shrugs and turns back to his work. There are 3 of them there. All are dressed as mages. The wet seems to fall off of them not getting them wet.
One pulls the last of his papers from his satchel and begins handing them out to be nailed to the wall.
(No time for a detail map until this weekend. Sorry. Use your Arena map for now.)
Renik d20+12=18 Thursday June 7th, 2001 4:34:44 AM
Ensuring that he is well hidden behind cover, Renik trains his bow on the group of spellcasting flyposters. Mages! And, he suspects, quite powerful ones at that. This could be tricky.
He finds himself in something of a dilemma; he does not wish to attack the mages for risk of showing their hand or scaring them off like the previous evening. However if they wait to tail them back to their lair they run the risk of losing them if their preferred mode of transportation is teleportation. Frowning, he decides their best best is to wait and observe, then follow at a distance if they are able. He only hopes the rest of the group is of a like mind.
Roger (Rond) d20+12=15 Thursday June 7th, 2001 9:44:14 AM
Rond continues working his way as close to the mages as he dares. If he can get a good look at their faces, that is what he wants to do. (MS DC=15) (assuming natural sounds are still covering our approach.)
[DM Jerry: shouldn't it be Rond (Roger)?]
Draax Thursday June 7th, 2001 6:37:27 PM
Once Draax moves up close enough to see the mages or see his comrades stop and signal him about the mages, he will stay low and behind anything that will provide him cover. He will get on his belly and use his magical hat to change his clothing and armor to the same color as the grass he is crawling in. Draax begins to inch forward from cover to cover if possible and still able to remain undetected. When he reaches the closest hiding place that he can reach unnoticed, he stops and stay covered, wait to see what happens next.
Sontra (Sunblaze) Thursday June 7th, 2001 8:21:14 PM
Sontra, still hidden, walks closer, waiting for a movement from an ally, or from an enemy. It wouldn't be long, before battle broke... unless his team wanted peace.
Damocles Thursday June 7th, 2001 11:29:52 PM
Stunned by the sudden storm, Damocles begins to descend rather quickly, directly for the group of three, but trying to approach from an angle that will herd them towards the rest of the party. Again, he tries to get a hold person spell off, hoping that this time he is within range for the magics to take effect.
Arien d20+6=17 Thursday June 7th, 2001 11:34:11 PM
Keeping well back in the shadows to stay hidden, Arien draws his dagger and waits for someone to make the first move. Normally he would use this vantage for sniping arrows, but the wind made that pretty much impossible, he figured. As he waited, he silently reviewed the spells he had committed to memory, and with a nod of satisfaction, shifted silently and continued to wait.
Jerry Thursday June 7th, 2001 11:59:12 PM
Sorry no post tonight. Will post tomorrow night. Thanks for patience.
It begins (DM Jerry) d20=11 d4+1=5 d4+1=4 d4+1=2 Monday June 11th, 2001 8:50:12 AM
Damocles, positions himself to drive the mages into the party. He casts....
Mage #1 freezes in place. The other two spin towards him shouting something lost in the wind.
Rond for a second catches a glimpse of faces and a ring...the ring...and the faces have the tell-tale scars magic. It suddenly occurs to him who these mages are:
SONS OF DREAD!!!!!
Mage #2 spins on Damocles, again shouting something. 3 Magic missiles shoot out of his hand striking Damocles in the chest for 5, 4, and 2 hpd. (total 11).
Mage #3 moves into the crook of a nearby tree and casts something (50% cover). He begins to move faster, almost in a blur as a result of his spell.
[We are now in initiative. It is party initiative.]
[Damocles, when in the air, please give how high you are each round. Watch your possible distance. ;) I think this will help.]
[Casters, when you cast, if there is to be a saving throw, please list the DC for saves vs. your spells. In fact, add that to your character sheets for next time. A list of the DC vs. each level of spell you can cast.]
Renik d20+8=14 d8=7 Monday June 11th, 2001 9:24:03 AM
Well, the die is cast. They need to put these mages down fast, and hope there is enough left over to tell them what they need to know.
He aims at the remaining non-paralised mage in his view (Mage #2) and looses his arrow (hitting AC 14 for 7 HP). Before he has even registered the effect of the first arrow he is readying a second.
Damocles (60 ft) Monday June 11th, 2001 10:14:38 AM
Damocles raises his brows in anger after being struck by the glowing beam and drops swiftly towards the mage, falling to a height of 60 ft. He readies his mace at the same time, so that next round he can unleash the magics within upon striking the mage. He yells to the rest of the party "Keep harrying them, but don't hurt the frozen one!"
Renik 2d6(2+6)=8 Monday June 11th, 2001 1:14:43 PM
(OOC: Apologies, I didn't check the map before posting, and didn't realise how close we were.
Renik aims for the exposed neck of his target, craning up at Damocles, and looses his arrow.
(OOC: If he can get to within 30 ft of Mage 2 and use a sneak attack he will do so, inflicting a further 8HP dmg.)
Draax d20+8=11 d20+8=16 d6+3=5 Monday June 11th, 2001 6:12:57 PM
Draax takes a step into the open and fires two arrows at mage#2. (Hitting AC 11 and AC 16 for 5 point if 16 hits)
Sontra(Sunblaze)[Steven] Monday June 11th, 2001 7:34:06 PM
Sontra, seeing the battle break out, quickly draws out his wand(Summon Animal). He just thinks of Summoning an animal, any animal, doesn't matter what comes out, just a distraction. A Celestial dog appears near the second Son of Dread, and Sontra screams to attack the enemy near it(Do you roll for the dog, for I don't have the Monster Manual yet).
Sontra then runs towards the frozen one. He drops his sword on his bag, and still invisible cast yet another spell(Charm Person, DC 14[10 + spell level: 1 + charisma mod: 3]). He mutters the words, unknown to any but Magelings, moving his hands, although none but him see them, and focusing apon the Son of Dread, his enemy.
"Orith, notlianous sliyith NOKARA!" And with that his spell is cast, leaving a faint trace of magic in the air. Sontra waits, hoping it worked, but grabs his sword, waiting, watching.
Arien d20+6=20 2d4(4+3)=7 Monday June 11th, 2001 9:24:50 PM
Arien steps to the side to get a better view of mage #2 and pointing the first two fingers oh his left hand at the mage casts a spell. A bolt of acid streaks from his fingers towards the mage. (hits ac 20 for 7 points of damage, lasts for 1 additional round, no saving throw.)
Roger (Rond) d20+12=18 d20+12=13 Tuesday June 12th, 2001 6:54:32 AM
Seeing the attacks begin, Roger rolls his eyes. He mutters under his breath, "bloodthirsty still, I see", as he becomes infuriated about this tendency to always fight. Roger tries to use the cover that mage #3 is using as a shield, so that he can attempt to sneak up on him. HS=18 <MS if still needed is 13 (which is a fumble?!)>
Garmik (Michael Tedin) d20=13 Tuesday June 12th, 2001 10:32:04 AM
Garmik emerges from hiding in the trees across the road from the party to fire an arrow at Mage #2. (d20+7=13-1(tired)=12 to hit) He is clad in a grey cloak.
"By Wardd! I thought we were going to track these guys to their hideout?"
Party Results (DM Jerry) d20=7 Tuesday June 12th, 2001 12:35:20 PM
(Mages are AC16. -3 range attacks due to the wind--per range increment.]
Renik's arrow flies to the left of #2. The arrow buries itself in the bulletin board.
Damocles closes preparing his future actions.
Draax steps into the open and fires hitting once and missing once. The wind carries the second one away narrowly missing Damocles as the wind carries it upwards. He does 5hpd to Dread #2.
Sontra summons a dog which appears near Dread #2 and attacks him. It misses.
[Dog is 15AC, 6hps, Bite +2 melee for 1d4+1dmg., +8 to tracking by scent, smite evil for +1 dmg. once a day, darkvision, 5 hit points damage of resistancd to acid, cold, and elect.]
Sontra does not draw her sword as she has already moved and drawing a sword is a move-equivalent action.
Arien hits #2 with acid for 7 hpd. with more to come next round.
Rond sneaks up on #3 prepared to attempt a sneak attack next round. (could have done it this round as you were aboutt 23' away.)
...
The Mighty Dread (Monster Initiative) [DM Jerry] Tuesday June 12th, 2001 12:40:43 PM
#1 stands held.
#2 shouts ,"RUN!" and runs west at triple speed.
#3 follows at double speed since he was in the trees.
(It is now party initiative.)
Damocles d20+6=24 d8+4=7 Tuesday June 12th, 2001 1:39:29 PM
Damocles flies as quickly as he can, pumping his wings with great haste trying to slam into the fleeing Mage #2 and strike him with his mace (AC 18/24, should hit, 7 damage) and unleash the spell of hold person kept within. If he cannot reach the mage in time then he shall pick up speed to the greatest level he can (difficult to tell looking at the fly spell) and continue to chase after the Mage shouting "I could use some help here!"
Draax d20+8=17 d20+8=18 d6+3=9 d6+3=6 Tuesday June 12th, 2001 2:39:52 PM
Trying to take aim at the speedy mage #3 Draax lets two arrows fly. (Hitting ACs 17 and 18 for 9 and 6 hps, 15 points in all.)
Renik d20+8=21 d8=2 Tuesday June 12th, 2001 5:16:38 PM
As Damocles has closed with the second mage Renik aims instead for the fleeing figure of mage # 3.
He looses his arrow, which flies true, but with the shimmering outline of his target he cannot be certain he has hit (Hit AC21 for 2(grrr) HP). He then pursues the fleeing spellcaster as fast as he is able.
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Steven] Tuesday June 12th, 2001 6:18:37 PM
((This is assuming that I didn't get my spell out... just a repeat.))
Sontra then runs towards the frozen one. He drops his sword on his bag, and still invisible cast yet another spell(Charm Person, DC 14[10 + spell level: 1 + charisma mod: 3]). He mutters the words, unknown to any but Magelings, moving his hands, although none but him see them, and focusing apon the Son of Dread, his enemy.
"Orith, notlianous sliyith NOKARA!" And with that his spell is cast, leaving a faint trace of magic in the air. Sontra waits, hoping it worked, but grabs his sword, waiting, watching.
Arien 2d4(3+4)=7 Tuesday June 12th, 2001 9:28:15 PM
Arien's acid spell contiues to eat at the fleeing mage, inflicting another seven points of damage before it evaporates.
While his spell is doing its work Arien twirls to face the way the third mage is running then with a quick command and an outstretched hand he hangs a Web in front of the fleeing mage, anchored to two trees on either side of the road. (Reflex save negates vs. Spell DC 16)
Garmik (Michael Tedin) d20+7=26 d6=1 Tuesday June 12th, 2001 9:51:36 PM
(OOC: I don't know where Garmik is on the map, but I am assuming he is among the trees near the intersection of the south and southwest roads.)
Seeing that Damocles is in melee with Mage #2, Garmik fires an arrow at Mage #3 (d20+7=26-1(tired)=25) and does (a stinking) 1 hp of damage (d6=1).
Garmik then drops his bow and draws his short sword, ready to move and intercept mage #3 next round.
Roger (Rond) Wednesday June 13th, 2001 8:46:21 AM
Cursing heavily, Roger stamps his feet in disgust as he sees the wholesale, unjustified slaughter (even though he's a member of the Dread clan), of the fleeing mages. Considering that they are moving faster than Roger can keep up, he keeps his eyes out for trouble as he moves to the frozen mage, in order to tie him up before the spell effect is done.
(ooc I didn't get a chance to look at my book last night. I didn't go for the attack on Mage #3 because I was assuming that MS would have slowed me down somewhat. Even if the storm was covering my approach, until the mage started to move, I think he would have been slowed, in order to not get caught when the lightning went off).
Player Results 2 (DM Jerry) d20=9 d20+5=24 Wednesday June 13th, 2001 11:31:42 AM
Damocles slams forward into #2 hitting the dread powerfully with his mace for 7hpd. #2 staggers, severely injured. (Damocles can't attack and cast. Read your rules D. :) )
[Damocles, what is your movement rate while flying? Don't forget to list altitude.]
Draax hits #3 Dread twice doing a total of 15 hpd. One arrow hits him square in the back, the other in his leg. He also staggers, severely injured.
Renik runs 30' and then stops letting his arrow fly. It hits #3 in the shoulder causing him to scream in pain and surprise at the brutal assault.
Sontra casts Charm Person on #1 Dread who is held. (He receives his usual bonus and an extra +5 as he is being currently threatened by Damocles spell of Hold Person.) There is no response from the Dread who is held and cannot talk or even blink a response. It is impossible to tell whether #1 is charmed or not at this point. (I erased the roll from the die rolls field.) Sontra having cast a spell targeting a foe, becomes visible.
Arien's continued acid damage eats at #2 and he drops unmoving. Arien casts Web in front of #3. (Since it was cast in front of him, I'm giving him a hard tumble/dex check to avoid the web before his save.) He runs into the web (d20=9). He makes his check however (d20+5=24, sliding under the web. He ends up in a sitting position, just beyond the web. (nice try)
Garmik fires at Mage #3 and does 1hpd. #3 screams his frustration and pain, but does not go down.
Roger, seemingly frustrated at the turn of events, moves forward to tie up #1. However, when he checks his supplies, he doesn't find any rope. (none on sheet.) [Sorry Todd, was checking to see if you had silk rope which gives a +2 to the Using Rope skill and didn't find any rope at all. :( ] ...
A Small Ambush (DM Jerry) d20+6=15 d20+6=17 Wednesday June 13th, 2001 11:42:53 AM
A voice cried out:
"NOW! NOW!"
Two burly fighters wearing strange armor and holy symbols embroidered into their chests of a "green heart" run at Damocles, now that he is at striking height. Both come from the trees to his north. (We will designate them G1 and G2 on the map for the green holy symbol.)
G1 slices with his longsword at Damocles missing him (d20+6=15).
G2 does the same, attacking and missing (d20+6=17) his blade whistling past Damocles left wing.
[correction] Dread #2 remains unmoving.]
[correction] Dread #3 runs into the trees to the north. He limps from his various injuries.
(G1 and G2 have an 18AC.)
It is now party initiative. Good luck.
Arien Wednesday June 13th, 2001 8:29:49 PM
Cursing as the mage slips through his web Arien draws his dagger and rapier and takes off after the mage to finish the job. Without stopping he runs at the web. As he hurtles towards it his cloak molds itself to his form and he slips through the web as if it doesn't exist. As he passes other members of the party he shouts out for them to burn it to get by and then on the other side of the web he pauses to take stock of the situation.
Draax Wednesday June 13th, 2001 9:04:31 PM
Seeing that the web blocks a straight path to the mages, Draax sprints to the far tree that is being use as an anchor for the web; hoping to run around the tree to get on the other side of the web.
Renik d20+8=28 d20+8=27 2d8(5+3)=8 d8=5 Thursday June 14th, 2001 7:00:29 AM
Renik slips through the trees to the south of the web, then aims and fires another arrow at the shimmering Mage (3). The arrow leaves his bow with a mighty "TWAANG!!" and flies directly towards its intended target's head (Hits AC 28, Threat hits AC27: Crit 3d8 dmg =13).
(OOC: Jerry, on Map 3 you show Renik in his original position, but in my (and your) post he has moved 30 feet, which will allow the above move and shot. Also in the first of your posts Mage 2 has fallen unmoving to acid damage, but in post 2 he is running into the woods. Is he up or down?)
[Edited that mistake. 2 is down so he didn't enter the trees.]
Garmik (Michael Tedin) d20+6=16 Thursday June 14th, 2001 9:44:34 AM
Seeing two burly fighters ambush Damocles, Garmik thinks twice about checking on Mage #2.
Instead, he goes to the aid of Damocles and attacks G2 with his short sword. (d20+6=16-1(tired)=15 - miss)
Roger (Rond) Thursday June 14th, 2001 10:26:43 AM
<DM woke up late this morning, didn't get a chance to respond. What you have for Rond is correct, though you didn't respond and tell me whether my correction on his spell casting was correctly read from page 45 of the HB. If it is correct Roger can close and cast entangle (I don't have a map at work so I'm not 100% sure on whether he has enoough range to do so). Anything between the DM tags can be deleted. /DM>
[I'm not sure about what you're referring to. Explain in an email in detail please.]
Seeing the additional guards, Roger says, "Sontra can you tie up everyone?" He moves to helps his friends. As soon as it is feasible, he casts entangle between the escaping mage, and the guards.
Party Results (DM Jerry) Thursday June 14th, 2001 10:56:58 AM
Arien passes through the web, then pauses to assess the situation.
Draax makes it to the north side of the webbed tree.
Renik can just barely make it far enough through the south trees to get off his shot. (Because I forgot to move #3 from his position, this will stand. Otherwise he'd be out of sight or at least behind cover.) Renik's critical hit drops #3. He lies unmoving.
Garmik moves as fast as he can through the trees, but cannot close and attack (max move of 30' and still be able to attack). ...
Ambush continues [opponent's initiative] (DM Jerry) d20+6=26 d20+6=25 d8+2=10 d8+2=3 d20+6=18 d8+2=7 d20+6=24 d8+2=7 d20+8=25 d8+2=4 Thursday June 14th, 2001 11:09:42 AM
A voice rings out again:
"NOW! NOW!"
Two more burlies exit from their hiding places in the trees to the south of the road. (G3 and G4)
G3 closes with Garmik and attacks him hitting him with his long sword (d20+6=26) and scoring a threat. He hits with his followup critical as well (d20+6=25) and does d8+2=10 as well as d8+2=3 totalling 13 hit points damage.
G4 closes with Arien (d20+6=18) and hitting him for d8+2=7hpd.
G1 continues his attack on Damocles hitting him with his blade (d20+6=24) for d8+2=7hpd.
G2 takes a 5 foot step so that he can flank Damocles. He then attacks with his sword hitting (d20+8=25) for d8+2=4hpd.
The rain continues to pour soaking you to the bone.
(no penalties for rain since it would be the same for both sides.)
It is now party initiative.
Damocles Thursday June 14th, 2001 11:50:09 AM
Damocles curses as the blades cut into him, quite out of character for the priest, and pumping his wings, lifts himself further skyward (OOC: Since he never landed, but rather attacked the mage while still airborne, does he provoke an attack of opportunity by lifting in height? If he does, then he'll just make a full move and fly over to where Mage #2 is frozen.) He soars for the frozen mage, urging his comrades to grab their prisoner and retreat.
Draax d20+3=7 d20+3=10 Thursday June 14th, 2001 4:25:14 PM
Seeing Damocles begin to regain some height and fly back toward the web, the half-elven fighter steps just around the tree and fires two arrows in the direction of G1 trying to buy his comrade a few seconds. Both arrows fly wide of his target. Draax mentally berates himself for not taking careful aim before shooting a couple of arrows into oblivion.
Arien 6d6(5+3+6+6+3+3)=26 Thursday June 14th, 2001 5:31:22 PM
With Damocles clear of G1 and G2 Arien sees the possibility to inflict some real damage. Stepping cautiously about G4 Arien retreats a bit back until he is in the woods with the angle he is at he can still see G4 who is now in a line with both G1 and G2. Then pointing his dagger at the fighters he unleases the magic stored within. A brilliant blue-white bolt of electricity bursts out of the dagger and blasts through the three guards. (Reflex save vs. DC 17 for half damage.)
Garmik (Michael Tedin) d20+7=8 Thursday June 14th, 2001 7:47:17 PM
Garmik just about loses his nerve and gets ready to flee when Damocles takes off.
However, Arien's bolt of lightning encourages him, so he takes a swing at Guard #3. (d20+7=8-1(tired)=7 Miss) Unfortunately, Garmik is a bit intimidated by they burly guard in front of him and his swing goes wild.
Sontra (Sunblaze) 2d4(2+4)=6 Thursday June 14th, 2001 10:41:54 PM
Sontra has the dog run by the web, hoping the spell won't run out. He watches the battle progress and realizes that his help wouldn't be much, he was a mage, and battles weren't for the magelings, much less inexperienced ones, such as himself.
He turns towards the web, keeping away from the main parts and casts a spell (Sleep, affects 6 hit dice of enemies, DC 14-13 [10 + spell level: 1 + intelligence mod: 3 or wisdom mode: 2 I'm not sure which one if any.]) towards the enemies, his words are slow and meaningless, unlike the strikes of a sword in battle.
"Tinulith majolawun porsile NOKARA!" The magic seems to blaze towards the battle, and hope streams through Sontra's face, although only for a moment.
Renik d20+12=26 d20+2=16 d20+4=14 d20+12=31 Friday June 15th, 2001 5:52:27 AM
Renik draws his rapier and moves quietly (Move Silent DC26) through the trees in a circling manoevre until he is behind the hired muscle battling it out with Garmik. As he goes he looks around (Spot DC16) and listens carefully (Listen DC14) trying to pinpoint the source of the voice that keeps summoning these accursed goons. Ensuring he is not seen (Hide DC31) he prepares to launch a sneak attack on his unwitting foe.
(OOC: I will attack with Sneak attack next round, as I assume I can't move, draw my weapon, scope out the area, remain inconspicuous and sneak attack all in one round.)
From his vantage point he spies Damocles rising into the air and retreating from the battle, calling for the others to do the same! Silently he curses to himself. What is the feathered fool doing? He got them into this mess by attacking the mages when they should have held back and observed. Now when the going gets tough and they are committed to battle he calls for a retreat that likely as not only he can survive unscathed! How can it be that four opponents can be causing such problems for this group of six? Their teamwork, he decides, _really_ stinks. If they get out of this in one piece, something will have to be done about it.
His thoughts of doom and gloom are swiftly dispelled, however, as Arien pretty much single handedly turns the battle in their favour. Perhaps they can get by without teamwork after all! There is a glint in his eye as he creeps up on Garmik's thug, rapier in hand...
ADM Todd Friday June 15th, 2001 10:24:41 AM
Just a quick note. I cannot access private notes on the board. So if you have anything to say in private while Jerry is gone, please send via e-mail.
Roger/Rond Monday June 18th, 2001 8:10:58 AM
Roger crosses the clearing, and heads for the treeline, in order to go around the web. As he comes into the trees, he pulls out his bow.
(ooc: DM will post tonight between 8-9pm EST. I thought I was ready to post their move now, but discovered I hadn't read up on something, which affects what they'll be doing. Sorry for the delay)
And so it goes (adm Todd) d20+6=11 d20+4=6 d20+4=15 d20+4=7 d20+4=17 d20+1=12 d20+1=11 Monday June 18th, 2001 8:36:33 PM
Damocles continues flying past the guards and attempts to pick up the downed Dread #2. (Dex DC check 15 or higher, to keep your balance with the additional load, and strength DC check 15 or higher, to hold on to your load. Plus we still need your movement rate while flying.)
Arien takes a 5' step towards the woods, and concentrates on lining up the three guards. This provoke an attack of opportunity for G4. With the area turning slushy, the guard's footing throws his swing wide. With Arien's move complete, he lets loose with the lightning bolt (all guards take full effect, and I'm assuming that the 26 that you rolled is the damage -- you didn't say).
Sontra's spell goes off (for wiz spells, int is the mod, for bard it's charisma).
Renik successfully moves into place.
What's next (adm Todd) d20+8=27 d20+8=26 d8+2=3 d20+6=9 Monday June 18th, 2001 9:07:54 PM
"Retreat to the temple!".
Guard 4 moves to a flanking position on Garmik and swings, scoring a critical threat, but only scoring for 3 points of damage.
Guard 3 also swings are Garmik, and gets disctracted by thinking about his retreat.
Guards 1 & 2 start traveling west.
This next round, Guards 3 and 4 will begin disengaging. Renik and Garmik will have one attack of opportunity, besides their regular attacks, on either guard 3 or guard 4. Please specify.
Let me know if you feel a map is needed.
Forgotten (adm Todd) Monday June 18th, 2001 9:08:45 PM
I meant to show this in the previous post. Sondra's spell has no visible effects.
It's the little things (Todd) Monday June 18th, 2001 9:10:40 PM
The dog is just closing with guard 4.
Damocles d20+1=15 d20+3=16 Monday June 18th, 2001 10:29:21 PM
Damocles buzzes by the mage's head, scooping him up from under his arms, while barely managing to stay aloft. He turns to the others and states, "We have one, let us cut our losses. This is all we need!"
Garmik (Michael Tedin) d20+7=26 d6+2=5 d8+5=12 Tuesday June 19th, 2001 12:45:03 AM
Garmik takes the attack of opportunity against Guard #3 as the guard flees. (d20+7=26-3(-2 because I actually have only a +5 with a sword and -1 for being without sleep)=23. I assume I hit, Damage d6+2=5 hp)
Feeling a bit like ground meat, Garmik takes a five foot step away from guards #3 & #4. He then casts Cure Light Wounds on himself, converting the 1st level spell Random Action to a heal spell. (d8+5=12 hp healed. Garmik is now at 25hp)
When the guards have retreated far enough, Garmik asks the rest of the group: "Is anyone else hurt? If so, I have another healing spell, by Wardd's luck."
To Renik, he says: "Renik, I will follow your lead, should we pursue these villians or retreat ourselves?"
Arien 2d4(4+4)+2=10 Tuesday June 19th, 2001 3:25:24 AM
Muttering arcane phrases and gesturing magically Arien sends two bolts of magical energy into the fighter who had attacked him (G4) and strikes him for 10 points of damage.
Renik d20+9=16 d6+5=6 2d6(3+4)=7 d20+9=19 d6+5=10 2d6(2+1)=3 Tuesday June 19th, 2001 5:43:47 AM
Emerging as silently as a ghost from the depths of the shadows, Renik plunges his blade into the exposed flank of Guard #3 as he retreats past him through the pouring rain (Attack of Opportunity: Sneak attack (no dex bonus to AC: hits AC 16 for 13HP). Then before the guard knows what has hit him Renik's rapier flashes once more, flicking up into the unprotected armpit and sinking deep into defenseless flesh.
(OOC: I'm a little unclear on the rules here; the first attack was an attack of opportunity, effectively a free strike. As the guard gets no dex bonus to AC,(Renik is behind him and has emerged from hiding) Renik can make a sneak attack. However his normal attack (which was originally intended as a sneak attack) is also made from behind his foe, so again there should be no dex bonus, therefore, again, a sneak attack. I've rolled it as such, but if you disagree simply remove the 3HP Sneak attack damage on this second attack. Shutting up now.)
(Hits AC19 for 13HP)
As Damocles suggests they retreat, Renik (encouraged by Garmik's words) cries "No! Do not let them escape! If even one gets back to their headquarters we will be identified and our enemy alerted. We must stop them all if we are to remain unknown to our foe! Attack, my friends! They are sore wounded, and must fall soon!"
And so saying he tears off after the fleeing guards, rapier flicking nervous circles in the air at his side.
He prays that they can stop the remaining guards before they find reinforcements. This situation brings to mind a wasps' nest; easy to kill one or two guards, but if scouts return to the nest with news of the attack, soon the whole hive is swarming, and you won't get near.
It is a shame it came to this; far better simply to observe the enemy at their work, then tail them to their base and report their findings to their employer. This way the stakes are significantly raised. On the plus side they do have the opportunity to learn much of their foe (so their foe retreat to "the temple", do they?), but they risk much too. He can't help thinking that the group still follow the path of the warrior, not the spy. And when their goal is information, not conquest, that path may well lead them to failure.
Renik (Not done yet!) d20+9=20 d6+5=10 2d6(1+6)=7 Tuesday June 19th, 2001 6:18:07 AM
(OOC: Sorry, I just remembered; Renik has the Combat Reflexes feat, giving him up to 4 AoOs per round against separate opponents. So:
Renik also lunges at Guard 4 as he moves past him, effecting retreat. The rapier point drags across his armour, then finds a point of ingress near the base of hapless soldier's neck. Once more the blade sinks in deep, and blood sprays from the wound. (Hit AC20 for 17HP)
(Again, not sure about the Sneak Attack element, so I've included it and you can remove the extra 7HP if you deem it neccessary.)
Draax d20+8=19 d20+8=12 d20+6=12 d6+3=9 Tuesday June 19th, 2001 11:39:12 AM
Draax takes aim at the fleeing G1, but hesitates for a slight moment as he receives conflicting signals from his comrades. He agrees with Damocles that they should leave because there is no sign of the other two mages and they do not know how many of the enemy are about.
Seeing that his other comrades are not withdrawing he decides to enjoy the moment as long as possible. Taking careful aim at the retreating back of G1, Draax lets the arrows fly. His first arrow flies true, hitting the villain in the back (AC19 for 9dmg). He does not have as much luck with his second arrow as it flies wide. (OOC: last d20 sent by mistake)
His only problem now is charge or retreat. He thinks to himself that they have what they came for, he does not remember coming to get a captive, but he is not one to turn down a gift. He see no real point in continuing the fight, but this is the most excitement that they had in a long time and he is not really ready to stop right now. He smiles to himself as he comes to a conclusion. In a low voice to himself he says, "I guess it going to be charge."
Garmik (Michael Tedin) Tuesday June 19th, 2001 12:19:45 PM
(OOC: I need a map before I can give my next move. I need to know where everybody is.)
Sontra (Sunblaze) Tuesday June 19th, 2001 2:00:47 PM
Sontra seeing his allies flee runs over to the held mage and looks into his eyes. "I'm going to try and get you out of this battle..." With that Sontra tries to lift the Mage, and if he can't then he tries to drag him.
"Friends we must run -- this battle is useless..." She thinks about covering their tracks and then speaks quickly, and loud enough so that the Guards may hear. "Grab the dead... they should be buried properly." She prayed that her friends understood and started to run back the way they had come.
Damocles Tuesday June 19th, 2001 10:16:49 PM
Damocles looks at the mage in his hands and realizes he's lugging a dead body (Just as a note, I had been trying to pick up the Held Mage... should I assume that's who I have?). As his hands are tied up, and he has no spells that can be used without them he begins to drop to the ground, stopping behind his companions.
Garmik (Mismor) [Michael Tedin] Tuesday June 19th, 2001 11:00:20 PM
Garmik suddenly shouts out, "Lord of Luck, bring your blessing upon me and my compatriots." (Cast Bless with a range of 50'. Arien, Renik, Rond and Garmik are within range. This confers a +1 morale bonus to all attack rolls and saving throws vs. fear effects.)
Garmik (Mismor) [Michael Tedin] Tuesday June 19th, 2001 11:04:16 PM
(OOC Oops, forgot to move. If G3 is dead, then Garmik will move.)
Garmik casts his spell, then moves 30' in the direction of G1 and G2.
Roger/Rond Thursday June 21st, 2001 6:27:07 AM
Seeing that the enemy is fleeing, Rond moves into the trees to get to the other side of the web, in order to pursue, if that's what the group decides. "We have one of their group, which we can find out more from. We can ask him where this 'temple' is, that they've talked about. We can follow, in order find out where their hideout is, if we want to. But I for one, don't think we should take them on just yet. The Sons of Dread are a sneaky bunch, and I don't know that we're ready to take them on."
As the Wold turns (Adm Todd) d100=84 d100=81 d20=18 Thursday June 21st, 2001 6:56:13 AM
Garmik's attack of opportunity was actually a critical threat (19-20 for short sword). Roll another d20 to see if it's a crit, if you hit the guard's natural AC with all your bonuses, then it's a crit, and you roll another damage die, as per normal short sword damage. As Garmik slashes the guard, he realizes that is the first time the guard has been hit.
As Arien's magic missile enters in to guard 4, the guard grunts in pain, and collapses from the combined effects of the magic missile, and the attack from Renik.
Renik's listening tells him that the voice is south and east of where he is currently. Renik attempts to deliver a mighty blow to guard 3, but his first blow misses the mark (What Jerry passed to me is their AC was 18 without dex adjustment) and bounces off the guard's armor. Renik quickly follows up with a second shot, doing 10 points of damage (it's hard not to notice something bouncing off of you ;) ). (The attack of opportunity on guard 4 comes from when he tries to leave your threat range, not from you entering his threat range. If he had spotted you, he would have had an attack of opportunity on you, because you were moving into his threat range.)
Damocles flies back to the clearing with his payload, and quickly checks to see if the mage is still alive. (This is mage #2 who was unconcious as of the time you picked him up, it is not mage #1 who Sondra is trying to drag away right now.) A heal check (DC=15) in order to figure out the mages condition.
Draax's arrow finds a target, as the guard grunts with surprise from the arrow finding it's target. (further shots at guard 1 & 2 will be with partial cover to their benefit, unless you move. Guard 3 will have that benefit in one round).
Sondra attempts to start moving the held mage. Like a plank standing on end, Sondra can get the mage to fall into his hands, and start dragging him. But it is a mighty chore for Sondra to accomplish on his own. (considered a heavy load, movement is 20 ft)
What next? (Adm Todd) Thursday June 21st, 2001 7:00:21 AM
With Renik following the guards, and Roger a little further behind, the chase begins. The guards continue to move to the west. (Guard 3 has about 15 ft lead on you, the other two are 45 or so feet in front of that, heading down the open area on the map currently).
(Garmik's last posted action was premature, and can be taken back, if he chooses to do something different. I will send out a new map after this round of decisions. )
Renik d20+2=8 d20+4=12 Thursday June 21st, 2001 8:03:28 AM
Renik curses as the three guards sprint away. There is no way they'll be able to stop them all before they find reinforcements. He had hoped more would fall before they fled, with the remainder fodder for missile weapons. But now...
And anyway, there is someone else here, someone who has been shouting instructions to their enemies... they have been identified anyway. He stops and turns, acknowledging defeat. At this stage the best they can do is retreat, particularly as most of his comrades seem to have already decided on this path.
He starts to run back towards the rest of the group, peering into the undergrowth where he thinks the voice came from, trying to spot the ringleader. (Spot DC8, Listen DC12)
Arien 2d6(4+6)=10 Thursday June 21st, 2001 3:17:43 PM
As G1 flees Arien drops another spell on him. A burning globe of fire appears right in front of the fleeing fighter. (Reflex save negates vs. DC 16; 10 Damage)
Damocles d20+7=18 Thursday June 21st, 2001 6:20:15 PM
Damocles lands at the rear of the pursuers, and gently lays down the body of the unconscious mage. Putting his fingers against his throat and leaning his ear against his mouth he checks the mage's breathing to see if it is still present, hoping that he can heal him on time.
Draax d20+8=28 d20+8=16 3d6(3+4+3)+3=13 Thursday June 21st, 2001 11:24:03 PM
Draax takes careful aim as G1 continues to run, the half-elf tries to aim just ahead of the guard in hope that the guard and arrow will meet at the same spot. To his surprise the arrow flies true and catches the guard and buries itself deep in his side (critical hit 13 dmg). After seeing the success of his first arrow, Draax quickly sends another after the wounded guard, but could not find the same luck as he did with the first as the arrow flies over the targets head. Draax gets ready to retreat to the other side of the web as he does not see anyone continuing the chase.
Roger/Rond Friday June 22nd, 2001 7:58:34 PM
Seeing the guards flee, and seeing Damocles fly behind him, Roger turns around and proceeds to help with the two mages the party has.
A pig in a poke? (Adm Todd) d100=50 Friday June 22nd, 2001 8:09:56 PM
As the group makes their final efforts against the fleeing guards, Arien's and Draax's damage is enough to overcome the guard. As Renik makes his way back, he doesn't see anything obvious in the trees. From inside the tree area, though, he hears, "Come to the temple, IF YOU DARE." Making a quick search of the area doesn't provide anything though.
When Damocles checks the condition of the mage, he finds that the mage is pale, and his pulse is very thready. Bandaging him quickly, the mage seems to stabilize, albeit it's hard to tell if he's going to survive.
As the party gathers at the board clearing and checks in with each, they find out that everyone is at least alive! They also have one unconscious guard, and one unconscious mage, and one conscious mage.
What shall the party do next? (As far as I know, we are out of combat at this point).
Damocles d20+7=17 Friday June 22nd, 2001 10:30:33 PM
The priest nods to the rest of the party and looks over the scene. "I'm going to see what I can do for the other, try to stabilize him as well." He hurries over to the downed guard (40' movement) and, opening up his healer's satchel, removes the arrow head and dresses his wounds. He gestures for one of the larger party members to help him move the body, gingerly motioning how he can be carried without wounding him further.
"Must we be so violent as to try and kill these people? There is still law in this city, is there not? I wanted to take merely one, and escape back into the night again, the other... I could have frozen him too, but for some reason Justicar," he pats his mace, "seems to not carry the sting that it should be. Still..." he looks himself over. "Damn. I seem to have some scratches."
Sontra (Sunblaze) Saturday June 23rd, 2001 3:29:35 AM
Sontra looks at the party and at the traveler he had. "Hello friend... I hope that you have awakened. We are ready to set you free of that spell, that twas placed apon you while you were looking the other way." He looks at the group as if trying to get them to play along.
He whispers to the group. "Remove the hold spell. If he moves, we attack..." Sontra waits.
Arien d20+10=14 d20=16 Saturday June 23rd, 2001 12:32:02 PM
After placing a makeshift bandage over his wound Arien moves slowly to where the party seems to be gathering. Once there he keeps himself a little apart so as not to be distracted by their talking and keeps an eye and an ear open in case those that fled decided to return with more people. (Spot and Listen checks respectively.)
Renik d20+2=20 d20+4=12 Saturday June 23rd, 2001 2:42:01 PM
Renik is somewhat concerned that the entire evening would seem to have been controlled from the first by the Sons of Dread. First the ambush, then that eeerie, mocking challenge; clearly their enemy is well organised and extremely dangerous. To set up such an ambush, presumably as a result of the previous evening's abortive attack, suggests their foe also careful. Even with the location of the temple, this is going to be difficult. The enemy know Sontra can fly, and have no doubt got details on the rest of them...
Lost in thought he nevertheless provides a rearguard to the group, keeping a wary eye (Spot DC20) and ear (Listen DC12) out for signs of pursuit.
OOC: Sontra Saturday June 23rd, 2001 5:58:33 PM
Sontra can't fly... It's Damocles or Draax.
Draax Sunday June 24th, 2001 5:55:48 PM
Draax comes over to the others and takes a good look at the situation that they find themselves in. He shakes his head. In a low voice he says, "Three prisoners and we are not prepared for one."
He looks over a Damocles and admires his preservation of life trying to save the lives of the men that were trying to take his life just a moment ago. Draax know that if it were his choice they would only have one prisoner alive to deal with, and then just until they get the information that they needed. Knowing that his prejudice of the Sons of Dread is very great, the half-elf makes sure that he gives the prisoners a lot of room.
Given a few moments to reflect on the evening events, Draax is not surprised that the Sons of Dread were ready for them, but he is surprised that it's the Sons of Dread. Following them to the temple would be very stupid at this time, but if they cannot get any information from their captives, they made be forced to walk into another trap.
He brings his thoughts back to the present. What to do with the prisoners? Draax moves over to Rond and in a low voice for Rond's ears Draax says, "Where can we takes these guys, we cannot take them back to our place and I did not set up another place, maybe one of the others have someplace we can go. But first things first, we will need to strip these guys of anything magical and/or traceable, if we are to move them away from here. I would hate to bring a dread rescue or assassin party to our doorstep."
Arien Monday June 25th, 2001 2:12:35 AM
"I would say that we bind, gag and stow these scum somewhere safe then arrange for them to be taken in by some of our employer's men. That stop them from connecting us the him and keeps these fellows from rejoining their friends, and it gives us the opportunity to have them questioned at length."
Roger/Rond Monday June 25th, 2001 11:19:21 AM
Hearing Draax's comment, Roger nods in agreement.
Looking around at the party, Roger notes that the party is at about medium capacity. Hearing Sontra's comments, Roger pipes up, "He is a mage, and belongs to the Sons of Dread. I do not trust him. I agree with Arien. We will bind and gag our guests, until we can get them somewhere safe."
OOC: Steven Orr Wednesday June 27th, 2001 2:40:39 AM
I just want everyone to know that the name is SONTRA, not SONDRA as many of you seem to believe, I'm sorry, but it's starting to bug me after a week or two.
Aftermath (DM Jerry) Wednesday June 27th, 2001 10:35:22 AM
The rain quickly comes to a stop. It is still cloudy and dark. There is a cold chill in the air.
The two prisoners are easily bound and gagged.
The unconscious one seems to be getting a bit weaker every few seconds.
(A healing check is needed to stabilize the unconscious prisoner. DC 15 is needed. If the Healing skill is not taken you may use a wisdom check.)
The rest of the opponents flee and are gone as far as can be determined.
(Thanks Todd. Very good job!!!!!)
Sontra (Sunblaze) Wednesday June 27th, 2001 5:36:39 PM
Sontra walks over to the group, staying away from his mage. "I may have charmed this one... I can't tell though. It might be friendly to me, or hostile, but if it's charmed we can find out everything we need to know, but it will only last a short time..." Sontra looks at the group, as if expecting a response.
Roger/Rond d20+6=9 Wednesday June 27th, 2001 8:24:13 PM
"Can you cast it again, or have you lost the ability for the day?"
Noticing the condition of the downed guard, concern shows on Rond's face as he quickly goes over to check him out.
"We appear to be losing this one, but I'm not sure what to do." (failed healing check)
Damocles d20+9=26 Wednesday June 27th, 2001 10:27:21 PM
Damocles looks at the unconscious prisoner and quickly binds and dresses his wounds. Turning to Sontra he beckons for the bardic mage to come near. "Perhaps," he whispers "It would be prudent for you not to ensorcel one that is already paralyzed, but instead bear your force at more meatier prey." ((OOC: By my count we have three, two mages and a guard. Is this correct? Do I need to stabilize anyone else?))
Arien Thursday June 28th, 2001 4:47:10 AM
While the others see to the wounds of their captives Arien prowls the area to make sure no more ambushes will be sprung in the group. As he prowls he reviews the short battle in his mind, mulling over what could have been done differently. Remembering the lightning bolt he grins to himself and twitches his hands in anticipation of when he can cast such spells un-aided.
Renik Thursday June 28th, 2001 5:01:32 AM
His companions seem to be discussing something, as they huddle around the downed forms of their captives. Renik wishes they would come to a decision swiftly; if they are planning an interrogation they should find safer ground. Perhaps it would be an idea to set up some sort of safehouse, where they could stash these prisoners. Or perhaps the Church can imprison them...
Peering over he spots Arien performing a similar lookout task to himself. Remembering his pivotal role in the battle, just when things were looking their bleakest, he flashes Arien a grin, and a swift thumbs up.
Draax Thursday June 28th, 2001 4:58:10 PM
Draax looks around and waits until Damocles stabilizes or loses the prisoner. He looks toward the way they came. "OK, I think we have been in one spot long enough. Let's move these guys somewhere other than here and then we, I mean you can decide what to do with them. I exclude myself from the decision, because I would decide only one fate from them." He slowly simulates moving his dagger across his throat.
Draax moves over to one of the secured mages and gets ready to pick him up, but stops as he remembers something. "Did anyone check these guys for magic? I do not want to walk around carrying a tracking device."
Where To Go? (DM Jerry) Friday June 29th, 2001 11:10:06 AM
The party finds chainmail shirts 1 of masterwork quality on each of the downed fighters. the two mages each carry a blue potion. The letters "CLW" is on each.
Damocles finds that all the rest of the opponents are dead. He stabilizes the mage.
Suddenly, there is the sound of metal tipped boots on cobblestones. The sound that can only be the Constable Watch. It comes from the west.
Roger/Rond Friday June 29th, 2001 2:31:30 PM
"Okay. Time's up. Damocles you need to get airborn, and make sure we don't get boxed in by the approaching guards. SonTra (sorry bout that) you take the lead through the gate, and keep an eye on Damocles, so he can point you in whatever direction, if we need to change what we're doing. The rest of us are going to carry bodies. If someone can handle it alone, go for it, if not together. If we have to leave behind bodies, it will be done in this order. This unconscious mage first, then the guard. But I want best effort to keep everyone. Grab anything else that you can, if possible."
As everyone responds to Roger, he'll start eyeing those people that are going to carry, to try to judge who's carrying the least load, and capable of carrying a body on their own.
Roger/Rond Friday June 29th, 2001 2:32:23 PM
"We keep this one," Rond insists, pointing to the frozen mage, "no matter what."
Draax Friday June 29th, 2001 5:44:53 PM
Draax switches from the mage, picks up the downed guard and heads away from the watch with the others. "Leg's go. We can worry about stowing these guys once we are away from here." Draax moves as fast as he can while carrying the guard.
Renik Friday June 29th, 2001 6:12:43 PM
Renik nods in complete agreement at Rond's words. Quick thinking, and decisive action. He moves to grab the prone form of one of their adversaries (as per Rond's instructions), and sets off following the group. As he does so he turns and calls over quietly to his companion Rond, "A sound plan, my friend, and well implemented. What is our destination?"
Sontra(Sunblaze) d20+5=15 Friday June 29th, 2001 7:18:36 PM
(OOC: Please take back my last post. Me and Rogar must have been on at the same time, only his finished first. I'm going to repost in response to his.)
Sontra nods at Rogar. "I know a friend who might be able to get us hidden, but we have to take a leap of faith." He looks for the Watch's light. Sontra starts off, his ears straining (Listen check, [+5: 1 rank, 2 wisdom, 2 racial]), leading the group out of the hoping to hear the oncomer.
Sontra leads them towards the University of Magic, unless those above (Damocles) have any objections.
Damocles Friday June 29th, 2001 10:09:32 PM
The priest turns towards the others and sighs, unfurling his wings as he does so. He seems very weary as he begins to move towards the skies, and before he raises aloft he cautions the others, "Bring them both, but be gentle with them. I shall try and guide you on a path where the watch shall not find us."
Out of the Park (DM Jerry) Monday July 2nd, 2001 2:57:21 PM
The guard seems to arrive at the site of the battle about the time that you get out of the park through the east gate.
You hear a whistle and some commands barked. Soon you hear footsteps running on the cobblestones a few seconds behind you.
Sontra(Sunblaze) Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 3:11:59 AM
Sontra listens behind him, and tries to speak to the group, quietly. "I have a place near the University of Magic...A friend pointed it out..." He keeps a slow pace, watching ahead.
"How long can we keep them there...When will they be found...To many questions with iffy answers." He muttered as he walked along.
Renik Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 4:22:30 AM
Running along as fast as he is able lugging his prone thug Renik gasps "Near the University of Magic? Fine, let's move! Does anyone have any illusion magics to throw the watch off our scent?" He peers upwards, looking for directions or warnings from Damocles.
Damocles Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 7:34:32 AM
Damocles looks at the watch chasing the group, trying to assess how much further they are behind him while at the same time shifting the color of his armor from the normal brilliant gold to a jet black, hoping that it will help him to blend in more with the night sky.
Avoidance (DM Jerry) d20=1 Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 9:28:25 AM
[Remember to use your maps to get to where you want to go!]
The group continues in a nondescript direction avoiding the guard.
One guard rounds the corner on you. "There!"
The other guard with him crashes into him and both tumble to the cobblestones [d20=1].
The God of Wardd must be watching over you.
Suddenly a line fires out of a crossbow from a nearby rooftop.
A feminine figure there waves and slides a net down the slender rope going across the street. Two men catch the other end of the net. They wave you on smiling. It is Midnight!
Roger/Rond Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 10:21:05 AM
Roger frets as the party moves out the east gate, and starts heading to the University of Magic.
When Sontra voices his worries Roger whispers, " We'll worry about that if and when we get there. But it wouldn't be long, I think"
As the first cry goes up, Roger gets ready to turn about and distract the guard. When the guard slips, giving the group some crucial extra seconds, Roger thanks the stars.
When Roger notices the rope, and the encouragement and help, he redoubles his efforts to get the group out of harm.
When Roger realizes he's following Sontra, Roger bites his lip with concern. Things have been iffy at best with Sontra. Roger prays for that extra bit of luck to extend to Sontra, with the hope that for once, he knows what he's doing. ( ooc :) )
Renik Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 10:45:13 AM
Praise all the Gods, but Midnight turned up the nick of time! A fight between them and the guard they can _really_ do without! Even if these particular guards seem better at running into one another than running down fugitives. Renik flashes her and her men a grateful grin as the group dash past, and offers a brief salute to the efficacity of their methods.
(OOC: Folks, I'm going to make an assumption on where we are; If I've got it wrong or you have a serious issue with my choice, by all means override my post. Otherwise...)
Renik racks his brains as they continue their mad flight South along Adventurer's End.
"Sunblaze, the University of Magic is in the Merchant Quarter, isn't it? Just off Merchant Square?" If this is indeed their destination, Renik suggests the following route; "Let's carry on down here till we hit the Guild Square, skirt that and head South down Merchant Street, which should (if memory serves) lead us to the vicinity of the University. Does that sound OK?"
As he runs along, lugging the dead weight of his chosen Son of Dread, Renik fervently wishes their destination wasn't quite so far. But he reminds himself that Sunblaze's eleventh hour bolt hole is considerably better than none at all.
Draax Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 2:36:49 PM
Draax continues to carry his burden as he runs following the others. As the guards are held up by their ally’s trick, Draax uses his hat to change his appearance to a shorter human in plain clothes. He figures that if the guards get close enough to see him they will not be able to give an accurate description of him.
He nods at Renik's suggestion, not being able to think of a better route. He thinks to himself, 'Doing things on the fly really complicates things.' He smiles to himself as they continue to run, realizing that he has not had this much fun in a long time.
Sontra(Sunblaze) Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 3:35:22 PM
Sontra seeing Midnight, smiles and waves back. Hoping that they understand he's sorry for what he did before.
"Good Idea Renik, I was thinking about a longer route, but I forgot that you were carrying the Sons of Dread." He begins to go down towards Guild Square. Sontra takes a glace behind him, and then goes on.
Arien Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 10:21:50 PM
With a nod of acknowledgement to Midnight and her two friends Arien dodges around some trash on the ground and follows the rest of the party to wherever they are going.
The Safehouse (DM Jerry) Wednesday July 4th, 2001 11:45:41 AM
The party follows Renic's route and finds the safehouse. You enter a triangle shaped shed filled with road construction equipment. There Sontra stamps three times on a floorstone and it pops open. Underneath is a small apartment.
It has food, water, bedrolls for 10, a barred from the inside secret door to the sewers as a backdoor, and strangely a guestbook. The floorstone can be secured from the inside.
The party owed Midnight a huge debt it seems. One wonders at the timing. Was she there? Was she watching the party's actions tonight? Was she already after the guard? Her presence raises interesting questions.
About this time, the mage who was held is freed, wisps of purple smoke coming off of his clothing as the spell releases.
The mage turns to Sontra and says, "Thanks for saving me, I think. What do you want from me?"
The other mage, remains unconscious on the floor.
A rat scurries for a hole.
Renik Wednesday July 4th, 2001 12:22:20 PM
Renik drops his charge and collapses on the floor, utterly spent from the night's exhertions. As soon as he regains his breath he says "Excellent work, Sunblaze! Last night you may have caused us problems, but tonight you have saved all our skins! I'd say you've paid off that particular debt! And it looks like your friend has finally woken up. Why don't you two have a little cozy chat?" He leans back and relaxes for what seems like the first time in days. No more fighting, disguises, or worrying, at least for now.
It occurs to him that their escape from the guard this evening is nothing short of miraculous. "Damocles, you seem to have a close relationship with Midnight and her group. can you think of any reason they might be following us? Do you think their goal might be similar to ours, and that they are using us to do their dirty work? It might be an idea to gently quiz her on the subject next time you see her."
He checks the bonds on the remaining unconcious prisoners, then relaxes. Quite the night's work!
Let us just hope, he ponders, that Sunblaze is able to determine the whereabouts of the temple, details of its defences, and the reason for all this subterfuge by the Sons of Dread. If they can just glean this information they can return to their employer on the morrow, the first stage of their investigation complete. He wonders if they should mention the involvement of Midnight's group or not.
Damocles Wednesday July 4th, 2001 2:12:39 PM
The priest turns to Renik. "Well, I can think of no reason for them to be after the guard per se, but it is someting that I will most certainly look into. Perhaps I will try and get someone to cover my shift tomorrow and go and have a meeting with our friends." He walks over to the unconscious mage and begins binding his hands, gently as to not hurt him. He casts a brief detect magic orison, to see if there are any emanations coming from devices on his person. "If someone can help me with this one, I can revive him to consciousness."
Sontra(Sunblaze) Wednesday July 4th, 2001 2:54:06 PM
Sontra smiles for a minute when the mageling awakens. Before talking with the charmed one, he gives a quick nod to Renik.
"I tried to save you, because I believe you might be able to help me. Your friends caused quite a rumble, and it isn't helping us very much. We were forced to stop them, although we will help them free, if they are willing to calm down." He looked at him, and took a chance, although a fake one. "I am Trent Trunith...And you might be?"
"We need to know what the Sons of Dread are doing, with the posting of those fliers. Could you tell us?"
"What is happening on the full moon? Is there something important going on?"
Then a smile comes to his face. "Could I look at your spellbook? If you have it here of course..."
Draax Wednesday July 4th, 2001 9:10:00 PM
Upon reaching the safe house Draax drops his burden down on the floor and then moves off to a corner out of the others' way. After taking a sit on the floor Draax pulls out a pair of his daggers. He puts one on the floor beside him and begins to clean his fingernails with the other. Draax keeps his face turned away from the conscious mage so that his hatred will not show on his face. After a couple of minutes of listening to the others, Draax leans back and rests his eyes, waiting until it is time to head back to the B&B.
Roger/Rond Thursday July 5th, 2001 11:47:07 AM
As the chase abates, Roger thanks Wardd for their luck. Roger helps getting the prisoners into the apartment, and makes sure everything is secure, before worrying about anything else. As Roger sits down to take a small breather, he listens in to the other party members.
As Renik speaks, Roger rolls his eyes, and offers another prayer to Wardd for luck.
Listening to Damocles reply, Roger feels the hairs on the back of his neck raise, expecting the worst.
As Sontra speaks up to the prisoner, Roger pulls his hand across his face, trying to remain patient. Hoping that the prisoner is still under the influence of the spell, Roger hopes beyond all hopes, that the mage is very stupid, and won't remember some of the slips that just happened.
Who I Am? (DM Jerry) d20=11 Thursday July 5th, 2001 12:35:52 PM
"My name is Bolelin. Thank you for saving me. You want to know about what?" [Allowed a saving throw here: d20=11 failed.]
He convulses a bit and seems to want to fight off the spell. Then he relaxes.
"The Sons of Dread are preparing for a great meeting which will make all of us powerful beyond our wildest dreams. There has to be lots of people there for it to work. I don't know the details. I have faith. It will be wonderful!"
"Yes, the full moon is when the meeting is to be. Hopefully the place will be packed."
"No my spellbook is at our temple."
Sontra(Sunblaze) Thursday July 5th, 2001 1:02:54 PM
Seeing the man's attempt to fight the spell, Sontra continues on, quickly. "Where is the temple located? And do we need anything to get in? Such as a brooch, or do we need to say a password?" He looks at the group, them being sleepy and tired, him being refreshed and ready to go.
"How about battle stratigies? What are they? How can they be stopped? And what are their flaws?"
"What have you defended the temple with? Spells? Warriors?"
"Do you know of anyone named Midnight? And whom they might be?"
Renik Thursday July 5th, 2001 3:32:48 PM
Renik settles back, eying the prisoners carefuly, and listens as Sunblaze continues the questioning. So far so good, he thinks.
Roger/Rond Friday July 6th, 2001 10:35:04 AM
As Roger watches the proceedings, he wonders how long he should wait before heading to the groups own temple, to drop the note that we need to have a meeting with Marcus.
Bolelin (DM Jerry) d20=16 Friday July 6th, 2001 12:40:02 PM
Bolelin without thinking says, "It's in the Foreign Quarter in the old Abandoned Pyramid."
Then he thinks and fights the spell again.
"Oh I am doomed."
A potion appears in his hand from somewhere up his sleeve. He drinks it.
A few seconds later he is on the floor in convulsions.
Sontra(Sunblaze) Friday July 6th, 2001 3:42:10 PM
Sontra grabs the mageling, and holds him there as he dies. He says a quick prayer. "May he live, free and happy." He looked, and checked the dead man.
"Well we know where it is, but it cost us lives. We didn't have to kill them, nor did we have to fight them the way that we did." His voice sad. "How many people do we have to kill to merely find the answer to a question?"
He stood up, and walked over to an unused wall, and sat there, face towards it. He was trying to sit there, and think about the days to come.
Renik Friday July 6th, 2001 5:35:46 PM
Renik checks to ensure none of the other Sons of Dread have awoken. It has dawned on him that he has been altogether too loose lipped in their presence already. (OOC: D'oh! Sorry! Rushed post= brain not in gear!) When he is satisfied he is not being overheard he speaks.
"Well, tonight has been a qualified success. We have the identity of our foe, the location of their headquarters, and some inkling as to their plans for the night of the full moon. This much we can report to our benefactor. However they are also aware of us, and are likely to realise the extent of our knowledge.
The question is, do we report back and await further instructions, or strike before our foe has a chance to consolidate or relocate his base of operations?"
(OOC: Jerry, how many nights now until the full moon?)
Draax Friday July 6th, 2001 6:11:47 PM
Draax does not show the happiness he feels at the death of the Son of Dread member. In his opinion the only good Dread member is in the same state as the mage lying on the floor. His only regret is that they did not get more information from the mage before he took his own life. He disagrees with Sunblaze's statement about not having to kill them, but he keeps that to himself also.
To Renik's question about should they report their newfound knowledge Draax replies. "I think that this information is too valuable not to pass to our employer. We were hired to gather information and as you have stated they are aware of us now and if something should happen to us, it would be best if our employer was not caught unaware."
Arien Friday July 6th, 2001 9:33:26 PM
Arien grimaces in distaste at the self-poisoned mage and walks away from him abruptly. He checks the makeshift bandage about his wound one more time before he speaks. "Someone should bring this attention to our employer, immediately. Then after he has been given word I say we go after this temple. They'll be ready for us but there's no helping that, they were alerted to our presence after the first night. Should we fail in out attempt to stop them then we will likely be dead but our employer will know what is going on and where to go to stop it." That said he surveys the faces of each of the group in turn before asking, "What say you?"
Roger/Rond d20=12 d20+11=17 d20+11=27 Sunday July 8th, 2001 4:46:44 PM
(ooc Roger's spell wasn't designated, so I'm going to try this. You can always reject what I post. :) )
Seeing the questioning going fairly successfully, Roger is shocked into action as he sees the potion appear in the mage's hand. Mumbling to himself, "You're not getting out of this that easily," Roger uses a hero point and casts delay poison on the mage. Once the spell is cast, Roger says," That's not doing to delay his death for very long. But I want to turn him and his gang over to our employer, so they can do what they see fit with him. I'm going to drop off a note for them to contact us ASAP. Someone needs to go back and meet them, in order to bring them here." With that, Roger heads towards the temple and follows the agreed upon signal, to have Marcus meet the group at B&B. (If needed. Move silently (fail)=12 HS=17) (don't want to be found by city guard (if they have a descrip), nor by Midnight.)
He lives for now. (DM Jerry) Monday July 9th, 2001 11:17:24 AM
Roger's efforts seem to have paid off. The mage takes another ragged breath and then another. Then he settles into a deep sleep.
Roger delivers the note in the prescribed way and then waits for them at the B&B. When Marcus comes, he leads him to the safehouse.
Marcus descends the ladder and enters the snug little apartment.
He notices the unconscious mage and speaks something soft into a ring on his finger.
"Clear that table." He says calmly.
"Now what have you to report."
Sontra(Sunblaze) Monday July 9th, 2001 7:36:40 PM
"I'll inform you, if you don't mind. I believe they all need their sleep." He walks over to Marcus, eyes scanning.
"The Sons of Dread are preparing for a meeting which will make all of them powerful. They need many people for it to be done properlly." He mutters something then continues. "It's in the Foreign Quarter in the old Abandoned Pyramid." "We gained an ally yesterday. Midnight... They helped us escape the guards. If we can get their help..."
He wonders before putting an opinion in, but then does so. "If we strike tomorrow or tonight, we can take them by surprise. But any later and they will know of the battle in the park."
Arien Monday July 9th, 2001 8:11:59 PM
"Actually Sunblaze," Arien interjects. "If you remember that voice which alerted those fighters to our presence also invited us to the temple if we dared. So I am afraid that regardless of when we choose to attack they will be ready. But if we are to strike soon I would suggest not until tommorow during the day. These Sons of Dread seem to be more active during the night and perhaps attacking in the daytime will be some small boon. Plus it would give us today to prepare and a full night's rest to make sure we are at our best. Of course," Arien adds, "We could be getting ahead of ourselves here, let us wait and see what the powers that be decide."
Draax Monday July 9th, 2001 11:18:06 PM
Draax listens to the others speak and nods his head in agreement to Arien's statement. "Arien is right, no matter when we strike they will be ready. They have already set one trap for us, so we can expect another one. The last time we encountered the Sons of Dread they did not take kindly to anyone that got in the way. They were ready to sacrifice everyone in my village and possibly the wold for their beliefs. So I say we go in and kill every one of them and then ask questions, but that's just my opinion."
Renik Tuesday July 10th, 2001 5:37:01 AM
Turning to Marcus the slight spy speaks.
"Sir, unfortunately the enemy are alerted to our presence, and will be ready for battle. Is this something Plateau City should deal with officially, through the Guard, or a Dragon group or suchlike, or do you wish us, your eyes and ears, to act also as your fist in this matter?"
Roger/Rond Tuesday July 10th, 2001 7:20:39 AM
Roger watches as Sontra reports to Marcus. When Sontra finishes Roger listens as each person adds their comments. When everyone has had their say, and Marcus has had time to digest the information he was given, Roger will speak up.
"Earlier this evening we were out scouting about, trying to track down more information about the fliers. When we got into Gladiator Park, we discover these this person (pointing to the mage), and two other people posting fliers. I believe we as a group, attempted to get closer, to see if we could overhear anything.
As we got closer to the group, I realized that this looked like the work of the Sons of Dread, from our Windhorn Hamlet days. We got too close, and the three posters attempted to flee. We tried to chase after them. I had the hope that we might subdue one of them, or be able to follow them. We were only able to do this with this one (pointing to the mage), because we were able to put hold person on him. But it seems they had some sort of ambush set up for us. Because this person (pointing to the guard) and 3 other buddies, came out of the trees in an attempt to overwhelm us.
The ambush failed to take us out of the picture, but we were unable to follow them back to this 'temple' that they keep talking about. We had to quickly clear out, because the city guard was coming. We picked these people up, and came here. Our escape was assisted, it seems, by Midnight. It was not something that we set up in advance.
When we got here, Sontra was able to talk to this one (pointing to the mage). Sometime during the battle (I didn't see), he was able to get another spell on this person. So using charm person as best he could, he gathered that this temple is an abandoned temple, and that this is for something that will make the Sons of Dread powerful. Again (rolling his eyes).
This person (again indicating the mage) seems to have taken some kind of poison, once he realized that he gave away too much information. I have currently delayed the poison through divine providence. This was in case there was something further you might want to do with these two.
Roger/Rond Tuesday July 10th, 2001 10:28:06 AM
(ooc. hmm. gotta work on that thinking vs typing thing. I still can't type as fast as I think, and I miss a few words as evidenced by the above post). :)
Damocles d8+5=8 Tuesday July 10th, 2001 11:24:00 AM
Damocles gestures to the other stabilized mage, that is still unconscious from the fight. "I'm going to revive this one. If you can hold him down" He mutters a quick spell of healing over the bound mage and seals whatever wounds he may have, reviving him to consciousness. "Marcus, I would like to see these two brought before a fair and just committee of trial. They seem to have nothing magical on them, but likely are concealing poison."
Marcus (DM Jerry) Tuesday July 10th, 2001 2:29:12 PM
Wait to revive him until after I leave. A healing kit should arrive soon. I sent for one when I first arrived. Keep the table clear.
You have done well. They know who you are, but they don't know your aliases and they don't know where you live. You know which organization they represent, their ultimate purpose, and their hideout.
Good idea also to have this safehouse set up. I suggest that you arrange for 4 or 5 more under pseudonames and while under other disguises. Never use one more than once in an emergency.
I will send a reward from your country to your next safehouse once you let me know where it is. We thank you for what you have done.
Now, the innocent are already charmed to come to this vile ceremony. However, every person we can save from this fate the better at this point. So I have your next task.
We know The Sons of Dread are using these flyers to first charm and then to give instructions to come to a conclave on the next 1st full moon. This full moon is not an ordinary one. It is known as the night of the bloody moon when Kerracles the Moon turns red for an hour. Witches and Druids consider it holy for different reasons.
The meeting place is the Arena. This means they plan on having a huge crowd. The Arena holds 40,000 people. If full, this could be quite the event. They do have something quite nasty planned for that night, for astrologers as well as dreamers of Jantierri are prophesying this as a night of doom and dread.
My task for you is to go back into the pyramid of the Sons of Dread and destroy whatever or whoever it is that is that's making these infernal Flyers of Charming. Every person who is not charmed by these nasty things is one that is not in danger upon that night. I think they have had a magical breakthrough allowing for quick copying of written materials. If so, it could be a huge boon in the right hands and a dread in the hands of evil. If you can, steal it, or bring back plans to it. But if not, destroy it.
I already know that other parties have also discovered the magical properties of the flyers now, and also search for their own reasons to find the Sons of Dread, so watch your 5. (20 hour day in The Wold, thus the phrase changes to "Watch your 5."
Any questions?
Sontra(Sunblaze) Tuesday July 10th, 2001 4:42:06 PM
Sontra listens carefully, and when he understands what needs to be done, he nods. He looks to the group, knowing that the older members of the group would jump at the sight of killing the Sons of Dread.
"Marcus, If we do not return, then we have failed, and I suggest that you find some way to destroy most of the Arena. I believe that without the arena they will not be able to do their...whatever they want to do." Sontra's voice is somber, but ready.
"We strike tomorrow then? Well I suggest we all leave early for different reasons. Or we don't show up at all. You guys need more sleep then I do. I can watch these prisoners until we go."
Draax Tuesday July 10th, 2001 9:52:20 PM
Draax listens as Marcus states their new tasks. To Marcus he says, "Sir, I do have one question or maybe it's more of a request. As Sunblaze stated, some of us do need rest. You seem to have some kind of friendship or contact with our other employer. All of us needing to miss work tomorrow may bring some unwanted attention to us, identifying us as a team or at least being together. Is there some way that you can get our employer to close the business for the day or at least have no need for our services and the services of a few of the other workers?"
No matter Marcus' answer to Draax's question, the half-elf will begin studying the guard's facial features, uniform, height and built, and anything that he will have to practice duplicating.
Roger/Rond Tuesday July 10th, 2001 11:57:07 PM
"We will make the appropriate plans, and proceed as soon as possible. Do you have any plans for these people? We'll of course divest them of any gear they have, in order to both learn about them, and hopefully masquerade as them a little bit."
If the meeting is finished at this point, Roger then heads back to the B&B. If not, then we'll see what is to be seen in the next scene.
Arien Wednesday July 11th, 2001 12:59:10 AM
"Draax my friend," Arien says with a grim chuckle, "That is likely exactly what we have to do. Like I say, when dealing with enemies, kill them all and let the gods sort them out." Arien the hides a yawn behind his hand and scratches his head absently. Then turning to Marcus, "Shall we leave this fellow with you and be on our way or do you want us to dispose of him?"
Renik Wednesday July 11th, 2001 4:58:59 AM
Renik nods at Arien's question. "Indeed, if we could arrange to have all our captives passed over to your (or the city's) custody once we have finished questionning them, that would certainly help us."
"Regarding safehouses, before I started at the Beer & Bath I had room hired in the Rogue Quarter. It has two exits, one into an alleyway. It should prove a suitable bolt-hole, should it be required."
"Marcus spoke of our identities; I think it sensible that we stick strictly to the use of our aliases in the daytime, our true combative personas at night, and perhaps establish an emergency identity in case our aliases are uncovered. In fact establishing the safehouses under these emergency personas will add an additional level of security. What say you?"
He looks at the others, then back at Marcus. "Marcus, there is something I would ask of you. It seems my companions are all well aquainted with our foe. I, however am unfamiliar with these 'Sons of Dread.' Is there anything you might tell me about them that would be of use? Do they worship evil Gods, or are they primarily an arcane order? Up until now, what has been known of their aims?"
"Further, are you able to provide our group with any funds? Though I have gathered a little wealth (and this strange Halfling fellow approached me in the Catacombs and donated 500GP to the group; most odd), we could really use sufficient funds for a number of healing potions, invisibility potions, and fire related magics for this assault."
Marcus (DM Jerry) Wednesday July 11th, 2001 1:44:22 PM
"I know just what to do with your prisoners."
He pulls out two daggers and plunges them deep into the chest of each captive. Killing blows.
"We work outside the system gentlemen. Never forget that."
He looks in bewilderment at Sunblaze's comments and simply shakes his head.
He turns to Renik and his answer to his questions is just a smile.
"Delivery will be made to your room Renik by sundown. Write the address of the place on this paper."
Hands Renik a slip of paper and a pen.
"Go home. Sleep. Sleep some more after work. Go tomorrow night. We can't call in sick everytime a mission is ongoing."
Renik Wednesday July 11th, 2001 5:22:07 PM
Nodding Renik scrawls an address on the slip of paper and hands it back to Marcus. Though the others cannot see, it refers to a building on the corner of Silent and Scream Streets in the Rogue Quarter. "Use the alley entrance" he comments.
He seems entirely unfazed by Marcus' murderous methods. Clearly he has seen just as bad (and worse) in his career.
"Well then, I have just one further issue to raise with the group before we leave for a well earned rest. I think it is something we really must decide on, and right now, before we see combat again. The members of this group are too unfamiliar with one another to function well in combat without someone to take the lead. We saw that all too clearly last night. No doubt familiarity will come in time, but for now I propose we elect a leader, to whom we should look for guidance in battle. Someone to coordinate our disparate talents. That way we can fight as a team, instead of as individuals. It is up to each of us to decide how that election procedure operates if the proposition is passed. But for now, will you each vote on the proposition, Aye or Nay?"
Then with a grin and a wink "Oh, and for the record - Aye"
Draax Wednesday July 11th, 2001 10:57:14 PM
As Draax studies the features on the guard, he witnesses Marcus plunge the dagger into the guard's heart. Draax smiles as the Dread members breathes his last breath. "Ya know, I have been itching to do that ever since we grabbed those guys."
When Marcus tells them to go home, Draax laughs, "OK, I hear you, we are not getting a day off. It was worth a try anyway."
"As to a specific member formulating a plan and taking the lead during combat situations, I will say aye to that."
Sontra(Sunblaze) Thursday July 12th, 2001 12:05:45 AM
Sontra watches as the dagger sinks into their flesh, and then turns away, as if disgusted. He pulls from his bag some bottles and sticks.
"These might be able to help us out, for our upcoming battle. There are many things here: Wand of Cure Light Wounds, A potion of potion of Animal Friendship, A wand of Light, Potion of Spider Climb, Potion Of Hide, Bracers of Armor(+1), Cure Light Wounds Potion, Oil of Timelessness, Potion of Sneaking. Grab one which you think will help you most."
He decides about voting and then speaks, slowly. "I think a leader would be good..." He cuts himself off, as if wanting to say more, but deciding against it.
Damocles Thursday July 12th, 2001 10:38:42 AM
Damocles turns towards Marcus an aghast look of horror on his face. "Be assured the Holy Mother will know of what you just did." he says, spitting on the floor before Marcus. "Life is sacred, that is why we have justice. You sir, have no concept of what that means, evidentally."
Roger/Rond Thursday July 12th, 2001 12:23:50 PM
You see the blood drain from Roger's face as he stands there stunned. Slowly, you see his knees buckle, and he sits down. Roger sits and thinks for a couple of moments, as everyone else reacts to the situation.
Eventually he looks up and begins to speak slowly, "I believe they might already know. In the end..... it might be ..... easier for them this way. I'm not so sure it would be as smooth...... for those of us that took oaths, should the situation be reversed. Our group does not have the right to make that decision, but since Marcus is our de facto employer, that is his perogative. I also believe that we were.... warned about this activity."
Turning away from the slain bodies, "I too, believe that we have to have someone act as the head, for the body of our group. We've be flailing away at our task, with no real direction. I think we've been lucky to get as far as we have."
Marcus Reacts (DM Jerry) Thursday July 12th, 2001 12:43:40 PM
Marcus whirls on Damocles his eyes appearing as daggers in their anger.
"Get used to it. This is your job. You and I work outside the law. We do the things that the High Lord Mayor cannot do within the law for the good of the kingdom. Next time, don't make me do what you should do. And if you can't take it, get out!"
He turns whirling his cloak and climbs the ladder out.
Suddenly a satchel appears on the table. It is filled with 2 vials labelled magical antidote, 2 vials labelled, Cure Moderate Wounds, and one each of Cure Blindness and Cure Disease. A holy cracker is in a small box. The Box says regenerate.
It is late. Some of you are fighting off yawns.
Sontra(Sunblaze) Thursday July 12th, 2001 7:32:30 PM
As Marcus leaves, Sontra turns to him with a curse. "We don't work outside the law... You do Marcus. You kill people because you enjoy it! You're no better than they are." With that he turns away, as if ignoring more comment.
His eyes close and he just stands there, then finally he speaks, quietly. "They could have been given a chance... To die fighting..." He looks up, towards those yawning. "Let us return, and sleep. We will attack tonight (I presume it's past 10:00am)."'
As they return, Sontra looks at Damocles. "We shouldn't let him get away with that... It's not right. We should turn him in... At least we killed our in defense and in battle."
Draax Thursday July 12th, 2001 9:29:44 PM
Draax shakes his head at all the anger and then put it out of his mind as he fights off another yawn. "Sunblaze is right, whatever our feelings to the way our employee handled this situation. We need to get to sleep. I will see you guys at work." Draax leaves the safe house and changes to his Steps personality before entering the B&B.
Arien Thursday July 12th, 2001 10:12:47 PM
Arien makes a sound of disgust at the reactions to Marcus' actions. Apparently some of them didn't realize exactly how hard the streets were, and how hard a person had to be to live there. "Listen you, what Marcus did was illegal, yes but as he said, we work outside the system. That may not mean much to you but remember this, the Sons would not hesitate to kill us had they the opportunity. I think," he adds while turning towards the entrance, " that there is one truth that you would do well to remember around here, enemies are for the killing."
That said Arien changes into his disguise and returns to the B&B for some much needed sleep.
Roger/Rond Thursday July 12th, 2001 11:53:13 PM
If Marcus does exit, then Roger says:
"Enemies are only worth killing when your life is in danger. If I call you enemy right now, does that give me justification to kill you? What if my justification for killing you is just because slighted my sister? No it is not right what has been done here, by the laws of the land, in my opinion. But what about the flip side of the coin? There are those people that work outside the law. Neither in the law, nor directly opposing the law. How does one take care of that?
The Sons of Dread of cause much mischief for Draax and I in the past. Because of their indirect actions, what happened here is their fault. They should not be trying to meddle, as is wont their way. If they were following the laws, their friends, would not have been killed. So ultimately, this wrong goes on their head. For forcing Marcus to make that decision. So we must keep sight of what we are here to do. Everyone should go home and sleep on what has transpired here tonight. Everyone should also consider who they would want for a leader. We'll decide that in the morning, when everyone gets up.
Renik/ Gullion Friday July 13th, 2001 6:38:20 AM
"Aye, sound plan my friend" comments Renik. "We should choose a leader in the morning, when we have all had a chance to rest. I would suggest we each get one vote, with the proviso that we can't vote for ourselves. But the details can be worked out later. For now..." he has been rummaging away with his disguise kit during these words, and now surfaces transformed into Gullion; "...we should sleep before work." He slips out into the night, and cautiously makes his way back to the B&B.
As he goes he ponders on the moral debate sparked by Marcus' actions. He has never really thought too deeply on the subject; in his line of work a captured enemy is a liability, once information is extracted. And because his job so frequently calls for plausible deniability on the part of his employers, imprisonment is rarely an option. He supposes this transition from heroic world of adventuring to the twilight world of the spy must be hard on some of his companions. They will have to be careful the issue does not further divide this fledgeling team.
Marcus (DM Jerry) Friday July 13th, 2001 8:22:33 PM
Looking down from the storage room above, Marcus spits this out.
"I repeat Sunblaze. If you can't hack it, quit!"
Reward and a Day (DM Jerry) Friday July 13th, 2001 8:31:49 PM
The next day 5000 gold pieces are found on the table at Renik's apartment.
Everyone gets a partial night's sleep and works the next day. You get a chance to finish your sleeping after work while waiting for the late parts of the night to arrive. You awake around midnight.
[There is time for shopping during your lunchtime during work or after work if desired.]
Gullion (Renik) Friday July 13th, 2001 9:16:15 PM
Though the lack of sleep makes the next day at work considerably tougher than usual, Gullion muddles on as best as he is able. When the team get some private time together Gullion says;
"OK, folks, let's have this leadership vote. Now, to my mind, the best way of doing this is that each of us gets a vote, and we can't choose ourselves. The most votes wins. Assuming the rest of you are OK with this plan, my vote goes to Rond. How about you?"
Gullion looks to the others for their opinions.
(OOC: We should probably get together off-board to sort out what we want to buy with our new-found cash (and who will do the buying; remember I have an extra 500 GP from Bill), and to divy up Sunblaze's generous gifts. Although I don't mind staking an early claim to those bracers, if no-one else desperately wants them! But we should do this quickly, as the Catacombs can be slow! If you want to include me on a round of emails, I'm at carlw@clara.net at weekends (home) and carl.white@oldenglishinns.co.uk during the week (work))
Steps/Draax Sunday July 15th, 2001 11:13:53 AM
Steps goes about his daily duties in the B&B. In between yawns he reflects on the events of the prior evening. Going against the Dread in their home will be very difficult, but also very rewarding if they can cause any discomfort to the Sons of Dread. He also looks back on his reaction to Marcus' execution of the Dread members and he is very surprised that his only regret is that it was not himself that did the deed. The half-elf realizes how far he has come from the young warrior seeking adventure during his first run in with the Sons of Dread.
Bringing himself back to present Steps thinks about a leader for the group and decides that he will vote for Rond whenever they get around to voting.
Damocles Sunday July 15th, 2001 3:07:22 PM
"I am oathbound to serve with you all, but know this. As soon as I am able to free myself from this oath, I will be taking leave of you. I cannot operate under these pretenses. The behavior of our employer was simply unacceptable to a person that has devoted their life to the service of justice. I will withdraw my name from any consideration for a leadership vote, and will abstain from voting as well."
Midnight (DM Jerry) Monday July 16th, 2001 7:21:49 PM
Tonight it is a clear night with both moons shining bright. Looking at Kerracles the first moon, you can tell that it is getting close to the full 1st moon. Perhaps 3 days.
[ooc: Dave, I've sent you an email. Please reply.]
Sontra (Sunblaze) Tuesday July 17th, 2001 2:37:53 AM
Sontra goes through the day, thinking of the way the Wold works. They let a man who works for the king kill two, who would never return to this being. If he had killed them in battle or defense it would have been fine, but while they were unconscious? No. If she told the King he would dismiss her, if she told the guard... that might help them.
Gullion/ Renik Tuesday July 17th, 2001 8:13:13 AM
"So, two votes, one abstention. Hardly the greatest voter turnout in history. And with no leader decided, no plan of action for tonight's assault. Come on friends, we need to reach a decision! Whilst I respect Damocles' right to abstain, those others who have not voted must do so now. Well? Who are you voting for?"
What Have We Gotten Into (DM Jerry) Tuesday July 17th, 2001 11:13:51 AM
As some of the group wrestle with what they have committed themselves to do, there are some strange silences.
Some of the group remain in their rooms. (nonposters)
Roger/Rond Tuesday July 17th, 2001 12:34:40 PM
Prior to going out to work on the floor, Roger uses the hat to make sure his disguise is in place, with as little fatigue as can be noted. (ooc not using any toothpicks, thank you). Whenever there is a break in the action, Roger has to fight with his fatigue from the night before.
When the group gets together, Roger listens to the comments everyone makes. "Damocles. I understand your hesitation about what we just witnessed. I too have some problems with the seemingly frivolous killing that we witnessed. But we are also the only people that are currently poised to potentially stop this new threat. If it troubles you so, you might take advice from Oratai (ooc our oath-binder). I do not know if she is a superior to you, or not. But she may have a different insight into what we are facing, that might be able to help you with your current feelings.
"When this is all done and said, and I can have a chance to see what we've accomplished, then I will figure out whether I have done or witnessed something wrong.
"As far as my vote for a leader. As per your guidelines, I cannot vote for myself. So I chose Renik."
(OOC: Officially, Renik, you have not mentioned running into Bill, or having the extra cash, or what you found at the catacombs. I know, from reading, what you found. But I'm assuming it has to be brought into this board (via posting), for things to move. Rond has money in savings that can help, provided there is some direction to what we are purchasing. If my beliefs are misled, enlighten me. ;) (I tend to go off into my own world, quite by accident of course) ;) :) )
Sontra (Sunblaze) Tuesday July 17th, 2001 9:00:05 PM
As the day ends, Sontra feels somewhat nervous. They were going to battle the Sons of Dread in their arena.
"I agree that we should hold a vote, but I, like Damocles, will not vote." He again brings out the gifts that he had bought for the group, and awaits them, and their choosing.
[DM: No we are not going to their arena. We're going to the cult temple. The arena is a different place.]
Arien Tuesday July 17th, 2001 11:15:28 PM
"Well after some consideration I'll vote for Rond. Although I must ask that you all realize that the leader will be the target of most of the enemies we meet correct?"
(OOC: Perhaps we should pool money and purchase some stuff that will help us all out.)
Gullion/ Renik: Verbal Overdrive! Wednesday July 18th, 2001 6:41:41 AM
"Rond, it looks like you've got the job! Good luck!". Renik smiles round at the group. "Well that's that sorted finally. Good! Now there are 3 other things we need to establish tomight as I see it, before we can proceed."
"Firstly we should all combine whatever resources we can spare, see how much we have, and do some shopping. We'll need to decide what to buy. When last I visited the Catacombs I was given the following prices;
Potion of Invisibility: 310 gold. Ring of Invisability: 20,000 gold. Gold Dragon Rings and now earings / disks (communication devices): "Expensive" Scroll of Silence: 150 gold. Potions of Cure Light Wounds (+5):65 gold.
However they did say prices fluctuate, so these may no longer be accurate.
Here is the 5000GP that our benefactor awarded us, here is a further 500GP in coupons that was handed to me when I was last in the Catacombs by a rather mysterious (but very friendly) Halfling, and here is an additional 500GP that I have won."
He pushes 3 sacks, containing a total of 6000GP into the middle of the table.
"Secondly we all need to input any ideas and suggestions for tonight's assault. Details of special abilities, spells, or magical items will all help us determine who can do what. Then, once all details and suggestions are made, Rond can decide on the best course of action.
For myself, obviously, my forte is stealth. However I can use a bow well enough, and my magical rapier has seen me through more than a couple of scrapes!" He fingers a silver dagger at his waist, and his features become grim; "And if needs be I can strike from the shadows to deadly effect. In addition, I have a few healing potions, a potion of Levitation, and an Invisibility potion.
As for the assault itself, I'd say stealth would seem to be the best route. Perhaps the infiltrators among us could attempt to gain access (perhaps Invisible and Silenced), whilst the warriors provide a diversion? Perhaps using the captured guard uniforms in some way?"
There is one final issue we must also resolve. Perhaps this discussion should wait until after the attack, but we do need to determine if all of us can work in this team. I realise that our task and our role is far darker than what some of you are used to. But you must understand that this role is a vital one. There are some things our employer cannot be seen to condone, whilst at the same time having the facility for rapid decisive action. Though you might consider this work distateful and even illegal, that is not the point. It is necessary. Somebody has to do what we do here, for the good of the city, and perhaps even for the Wold itself. We are at war with the armies of Darkness, my friends, and we must do whatever is neccessary to win that war."
(OOC: I'm really sorry about the length, but I had a lot to say before we went off to fight again!)
Plans and Shopping (DM Jerry) Wednesday July 18th, 2001 11:45:27 AM
So, good readers, our heroes plan the infiltration of the temple and how best to spend their new found reward.
[ooc: Continue the emailing friends. Let's get this stuff divided up and the shopping done. We head out for the temple on Monday ready or not.]
Sontra(Sunblaze) Wednesday July 18th, 2001 5:44:24 PM
Sontra looks at Renik. "You plan well my friend. I have this coupon for the Catacombs, 100 gold. It might be of some use to us. Also I have some left over gold from our reward." He pulls his Haversack over his back and empties it, taking out 5226 gold. "We can spend this if we need it."
He starts to take all his items off him. Two wands (Cure Light Wounds, Summon Monster 1), a Small Steel Shield(+1), a Longsword(+1 Dancing and Wounding). "This is all that I have. I... if you can use them, then take them." Sontra says those last words, as if he didn't want to.
Plans and Friendship (DM Jerry) Thursday July 19th, 2001 8:30:24 AM
The quiet makes you wonder at the feelings our intrepid group are experiencing as they plan for their next mission.
Sontra(Sunblaze) Thursday July 19th, 2001 8:38:31 AM
Sontra sits, awaiting...His group members to speak, as being alone is somewhat disturbing, considering there is most of the Windhorn Hamlet crew here.
His eyes nervously watch. He rubs his head, the WHAPPPP! really hurt him.
(OOC: Smiles everyone! We need posting! I can't lead us all...or can I...:])
Roger/Rond Thursday July 19th, 2001 10:51:01 AM
Just as he's about to speak, Roger slightly trips over his feet, as his head feels overbalanced for some reason. (whhhappp). ;)
"Well. Knowing the S of D's. We know their mages, and they'll have a couple of hired guards to help them out. I think we have to look at getting scroll/potions of healing for everyone, but maybe give Draax and I more than most, since most of our contribution is being front line. We can get several silence spells. Maybe even look at a Resurrection scroll or two, in case someone goes down. Maybe some sanctuary scrolls for our spell casters, in case they need some extra time. Some shield scrolls, to protect us from magic missiles. Any other ideas on scrolls/potions? I think our cheaper solutions right now, would be to try to look at scrolls and potions to over come the mages.
"Any other ideas?"
As Roger rubs the back of his head, not knowing why.
Renik Thursday July 19th, 2001 12:24:20 PM
"Sounds good to me, Roger. I say go for it, unless anyone else has any thoughts? Now has anyone else got some money to put in? It's all gone a bit quiet since I mentioned chipping in to the group kitty! Come on folks, get your cash out so that we can get fully tooled up."
He prods the silent party members a couple of times, just to make sure they're still awake.
(OOC: Come on folks, get posting! And if you're having trouble posting, or want to bow out, at least let us know via email.)
Steps/Draax Thursday July 19th, 2001 2:40:52 PM
Steps considers Gullion's request to state his strengths. "Hmm, I normally like to use my bow or throwing knives to cause a little damage before I move in for the kill. I prefer to strike from a distance first and let the magic users use their area spells before I move in. This way I do not hamper them or get caught in the spell, but I am at my best when I am going toe to toe with the enemy.
"I agree with Roger about the scrolls and potions purchases, anything that will keep us alive will always get my vote. Some magic resistance would be good on future purchases. Since we are going to disrupt the Son of Dread's plan, I think that after we accomplished our main mission, if giving the chance and without too great of a risk, we should also hit them in the pocket. If we come across anything monetary we should take it, as long as it does not jeopardize the mission. Normally I would feel bad robbing a temple, but when a temple is used to house the evil, all I can say is that they do not deserve any consideration as a holy place."
Steps drops 1000 gold into the kitty. "I wish I had more, but I spent most of my money earlier."
Steps puts on the masterwork quality chainmail shirts that was confiscated from the dead guard and slowly change his appearance to dead guard that he was studying. "I think stealth, deception, and a little luck should get us into the temple. I do not think this disguise will fool anyone for long, but it may get me close enough to silent someone before they can sound an alarm. I only wish that we had someone that did not go with us last night to scout the place. One of us could go in disguise, but who know how closely they look at visitors or anyone in the vicinity of the temple, which is some of the things that a scout could tell us."
Arien Thursday July 19th, 2001 3:39:55 PM
"Well I believe the encounter with the Sons showed what I can do spell-wise. However when I do exhaust my spells I can fall back on my bow, which I am quite good with if I do say so myself. As for my equipment I have a Cloak of Arachnid which allows me to climb like a spider, a dagger which as you see can discharge a lightning bolt once per day. A Ring of the Ram, and a pair of magical gloves that can store things. Oh and I also have three potions of healing. Now here is two thousand gold for the pool, I think we should focus mostly on healing items for the moment, after all we are going to be going through quite a bit here, probably something akin to the Sahuagin temple, but hopefully without the poison." With a sigh Arien leans back in his chair and absently rubs the back of his head.
"Regardless we should get this going and quickly we should hit the Sons as soon as possible before they come looking for us again."
Renik the Bean Counter Friday July 20th, 2001 4:58:03 AM
"That gives us a total of 14,226 GP. Any more to go in the kitty?"
(OOC: Sorry, 2nd post I know, just playing group treasurer)
Shopping and We're Off! (DM Jerry) Friday July 20th, 2001 12:17:37 PM
The party runs out to shop quickly, but finds that being the middle of the night stops are closed. They manage to wake up a few shopkeepers who are willing to sell them stuff at this hour. [Tell The Catecombs to add+10% to costs of this shopping effort as you had to wake up your shopkeepers. You are assumed to have the items AFTER I get your updated character sheet with them on it. Please put an ampersand (@) before your additions to the sheet so I can see what is new.]
An hour later, the shopping is done and the party is ready to depart. Everyone checks to see that their disguises are off and that they are organized and ready for action.
Rond the leader, plots the route the party will take[post routes please as usual] and the party heads out.
The night is still clear with both moons showing. :)
Sontra (Sunblaze) Friday July 20th, 2001 4:41:17 PM
Sontra follows Rond along, awaiting his lead. His eyes scan for more guards.
(OOC: I'm away for a little bit, this is all I could post right now.)
Roger/Rond Monday July 23rd, 2001 5:41:56 AM
"Here's some initial thoughts before we leave. Renik, since you can do a fair amount of hiding." (Is anyone better? (me, but that's not going to work ;)). "I'm thinking you should be into hiding and moving silently. We'll let everyone else take some of the silence and nondetection scrolls, in order to try to wreak havok. You take the dust of illusion stuff, and see if you can get in and suggest some things to keep them busy. Something like the city guards are pouring into the temple, or something like that. We'll use the chimes to open anything that slows us down. We probably want to be in and out quick. Since the ruckus may or may not raise the guard."
(ooc I'm thinking I'll go into more detail, once we know results of shopping)
"Leaving the B&B we'll head south to Bard st., over the bridge to Buckler St., on to Shield St., then through Helms Way, into Open Palm Market. We'll go over the south bridge, (hard to say if it goes into Outcast Quarter, or Foreign Quarter) and then it looks like we should be able to get in through the gate there. We should be doing our best to not look like a group of six individuals moving thought town. Though hiding and sneaking for those that can. Or flying, to provide early warning. Once there, we'll figure out whether to bring in our flyer or not."
Gullion/ Renik Monday July 23rd, 2001 7:12:35 AM
"As you say, Roger, silence and the shadows are my chief allies. If you wish I will take point, and attempt to prevent making contact with anyone on our route.
"Regarding infiltrating the temple, how does this sound? I quaff an invisibility potion, then use the slippers of spider climb to gain access through a window or the top of the door. Then travelling along the ceiling (which tends to be less likely to be trapped), I can infiltrate until I find either guards or the location of the Flyer Fabricator. Depending on numbers I can either evade, attack, or attempt a magical attack. The Dust of illusion you mention; is that the stuff that changes the appearance of another? If I can find a solitary guard, perhaps altering his appearance will cause the enemy to fight each other..."
"Either way, if you wish it I try to locate the target by stealth whilst you others cause mayhem."
Gullion frowns and runs a hand through his lank and greasy hair.
"I had hoped for some intelligence on this temple in advance. I have asked my contacts to get me any information they can find on the place, but as yet I have heard nothing, and we are running out of time. It is a pity; I like to be as forewarned as possible before entering an enemy's lair. Perhaps news will arrive before we leave."
(OOC: Jerry, any news on those Info gathering rolls? You keep asking for them, I keep sending them, but I've heard nothing from my contacts in ages. If you have anything for me, now's the time!)
"Whatever happens, we should scout the area first. Perhaps one of us should recon the temple exterior, to get an idea of layout, potential entrances, guard numbers and movements and so forth. A See Invisibility potion might prove useful for that task. Damocles, perhaps you might be best for that role if you can be sufficiently disguised or hidden."
-------------- [DM: There would be no information on this temple, except that it's been abandoned for 400 years and rumored to be filled with undead.]
Damocles Monday July 23rd, 2001 3:44:09 PM
Damocles returns from his meditation on things with a dark and somber look. "I understand now what Alemi calls me to do. Justice above the Law. Murder the murderers. Steal from the thieves. Were there another way..." He responds to the prompt he was given. "As far as scouting ahead -- I do not know how fitting I am for that. I am fast, to be certain, but I have no strong means of concealment..."
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