A simple request / DM Buzz Friday May 14th, 2010 1:21:50 PM
Waiting out the week, Thar goes to, of all places, a mages guild on advice. He is met by one of the many apprentices in the six story building. "Welcome to the wizards guild. Are you looking for someone specific or are you applying for a membership?"
Soon, the elf is taken to the "Magic in studies" section of the large building and sitting behind the desk is a beautiful young elven woman with red hair and deep hazel eyes. She looks up from her book and almost chokes when she sees him. She reaches out on the desk to grab sitting on a napkin, a sandwich she had been nibbling on and in the process, knocks over the lamp, scatters three books upon the floor and her pen holder with attached inkwell is now lying on it's side, the black liquid inching toward what appears to be important documents.
She seems to save those documents, but in the process, knocks over two more books and a pan of paper clips, all the while, she is stuttering, "Um, Lord Thar. Um, shucks...excuse me, what? Oh darn it! <grrrrr>..I'm sorry." The calamities come to an end and her hair seems to now hang disheveled down in front of her face. With a flick of her wrist, the beautiful locks again lie on the left side of her head covering her pointed ear on that side. Clearing her throat while standing, "What can I do for you today?"
After speaking with the woman named Myene Shimmerdance, she looses her nervous, star struck fascination and goes into detail on the possibilities, "Have you ever heard of Metamagic?" She can spend hours on the subject. Highlight to display spoiler: {If you are looking for other options though my friend, I suggest asking your questions in the Rules Board. Those there are more knowledgeable then myself on all subjects 3.5.}
The group goes about town the day before the debates and the energy is in the air. Politics is surely the talk of the town as all who live here are aware of the dynamics their city plays on the entire world of the Wold. There is however, no anger, resentment or meanness between the two parties. Couples walk down the street, clearly holding hands while one wears a blue armband and another wears the color orange displayed on their upper appendage.
Sellers and buyers do not have a problem with their transactions. Smiles and nods are shared as an air of peace and prosperity prevail, at least in the trade quarter.
There are other quarters that the group have not been to very often. Other areas more depressing might have a different feel in the area, but at least for now, moods are high as are spirits.
Edmund is ever the font of knowledge and tells the others which weapons work most effectively on undead. He also goes into the history of the sewers and wonders if old foes are afoot again. As always, the mage of arches exaggerates a bit. He can use daggers and darts or a crossbow if he wanted to. Such mundane tools are beneath him however, still, something should be in place, just in case...
Revi contemplates what it would be like to be a queen, but after thinking about it, she decides, it would be best to capture her own kingdom and be it's sole sovereign. She needs to make a pruchase.
Arm feels prepared for undead, should they come pouring up out of the dank depths.
Trixie makes some reasonable suggestions for a change. One which does not include a dozen gnomish engineers and a score of blacksmiths to accomplish.
Wynum is unusually quiet this past week. Perhaps his visit to the House of passions has left him wondering about his life choices?
The group is now together and wandering the streets of the town. Toward the evening when they return, they see an enormous figure dressed in fine clothes waiting for you all. He has dark bristly hair that is groomed as well as possible and he wears nice breeches, boots and a white tunic. He approaches the group in a friendly manner. In his deep, baritone voice wearing a wide smile, he waves at the party members and says "Hello. My name is Sampson and I would like to say, it is an honor and a privilidge to meet you all. I work for the Church of St Cormack. We are located in the Shanty Quarter. We are a small church dedicated to helping orphans and the homeless. I have been sent to you by my liege Guud Phader whom runs the mission. He has tasked me with inviting you to come and visit him. He is putting on a local auction to help increase the revenues for the winter months that will soon be upon us. Children are hungry while men and women are cold. He does not ask for your gold, but only to be a celebrity spot light, to attract more people to the plights of this city. Can I tell him, you will at least come to visit his soon?"
Never before has an ogre been so eloquent or gracious. What would be his story is uncertain, but he seems to be dedicated to this Guud Phader fellow and that is likely no small feat to perform.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Friday May 14th, 2010 1:49:13 PM
Revi's countenance was stern, "Do we have to kill anything?" It was a serious question, considering all things.
Wynum Friday May 14th, 2010 5:20:48 PM
"That is a good question Revi." the centaur adds no less seriously "... killing a few creatures would bring more orphans and homeless people to your master indeed, but how is it going to raise funds?"
A quick response / DM Buzz Friday May 14th, 2010 11:49:10 PM
Sampson looks revolted, "Shadows no! No one is to be killed! He, er I mean Father Guud only wishes for your sponsership to gather items to sell and buyers for those items."
Eyes wide, Sampson seems to look back and forth between the characters, as if he is wondering what he said that would even bring up bloodshed.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Saturday May 15th, 2010 4:47:11 PM
"Okay, okay, just making sure. We're in the line of business where something needs guarding and maybe some ultraviolence breaks out, so your request is a little unusual for us." Thinking about it a bit, "When is this auction happening, and does he want us to meet with him beforehand, or just show up at an appointed time? Also, how are we to dress? Full armor and weapons? Am I expected to autograph stuff, because that really is Eddie's area of expertise."
Wynum Sunday May 16th, 2010 10:29:39 PM
Once again, Wynum adds to Revi's comment: "Yes, indeed Shadow(*) is not here anymore, so if you need to procure items to sell, the rest of our team's not too good with stealing. In fact we would be rather terrible. All in all I'm not sure about the help we can provide. Thar? Ideas?"
{OOC (*) The Mithril Order's former rogue.}
Edmund Monday May 17th, 2010 1:53:00 AM
Edmund listens carefully, but shows little sign of concern.
"I don't think this should be much of a challenge," he says hesitantly.
At the mention of autographs, however, he is visibly more interested. "Anything I can do to help out!"
Free drinks / DM Buzz Monday May 17th, 2010 2:27:22 AM
Sampson is overwhelmed by all the questions launched at him. To most he just shrugs his shoulders, but the one he can answer is, "Guud will see you at your earliest disposal." The large ogre looks toward the darkening horizon, "If you would like to join me, we can get there in time for dinner. You can meet some children in need of homes as well as adults with no where to go. Meet with Guud after dinner and he can answer all of your questions. After that, I will take you back to my inn where your drinks are free for the evening, just because we know your time is valuable."
Sampson seems hopeful you all will join him, but he will likely be satisfied if the group will say, they will visit him another day or two.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Monday May 17th, 2010 9:36:13 AM
Arm casts a sidelong glance to Thar, hoping that he'll see his meaning to determine if Sampson is good or evil, something that has been done quite a bit as of late. If he gets the OK, he says, "I think that would be a good idea. Let us head there now.".
OOC: R.I.P. Ronnie James Dio...you will be missed...
Thar d20+8=26 ; Monday May 17th, 2010 10:32:36 AM
(Back at the mage's guild, ...) Thar smiles to calm the flustered young apprentice. "Madam, thank you for your help, and yes, I've heard of metamagic. That might be what I need, and I'll read some of our tomes on how to boost up my conjuring with metamagic... I also have a friend, Edmund the Great and Modest, ... I'm sure you've heard of him... and I'll ask him for his advice too." Taking a gold piece from his pouch, he gives it to her and says, "Again, you've been a big help and take this and buy yourself something nice. You've earned it..."
He heads back to the group and is present when they encounter Sampson. He tries to remember if he's heard of Guud, the church or St. Cormack..." (Know Religion = 26)... He subtly casts detect evil while Sampson is talking with the others, and if he is "good", Thar replies, "As our earstwhile bard said, it sounds like something that we could to help out others, especially the poor orphans.... Count us in and dinner sounds great..."
Changing subjects, he says to Wynum... "In regards to procuring items, Shadow was our expert... I'm trained in being stealthy and quiet, but in regards to 'borrowing' other people's goods, I'm probably not your guy... How do I say this nicely... If they're evil, then I'm interesting in 'permanently borrowing' whatever they have..."
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Monday May 17th, 2010 11:44:17 AM
"Alright then, lets go now, I'm hungry."
Wynum Monday May 17th, 2010 1:21:08 PM
"Oh, Sampson? You're that Sampson? Well in that case - unless you are in fact a shapeshifter - this would be a pleasure to help your friends. But I have to think about my signature for those autographs."
Edmund Tuesday May 18th, 2010 12:56:02 AM
Edmund realises who this Sampson is, and immediately brightens.
"You're that Sampson? Surely, then! I'd be happy to help. Your pork pies are the best in the Wold!"
Edmund looks ready to set off at once, so eager is he to help his favourite innkeeper.
((OOC: Sorry for the brevity. Absolutely swamped with work. Usually come home and fall into bed.))
An appetite for helping others / DM Buzz Tuesday May 18th, 2010 2:47:16 AM
The civilized ogre claps his thick hands together with excitement. In his large voice full of joy, "That is wonderful! I had wondered why Father Guud asked me to come see you on his behalf. I was quite nervous. So much depends on this annual auction and it is getting quite desperate, with so much attention focused on the election. I am happy I did not ruin his efforts."
Sampson leads the way and is curious enough to ask on the walk, "Have you really heard of me, or was that centaur humor? Oh yes, my pies. I like my pies. My pies are good. My mom taught me how to make pies." He rambles on in an inoffensive manner, "I replaced the dwarf and halfling meat, the receipe called for, with goat annnnd cow meat. It better for business. Halflings are big spenders." He says with a laugh relaxing. Highlight to display spoiler: { If you guys know this NPC, my apologies. He wasn't in the Woldipedia. Just let me know.}
The group walks for thirty or so minutes, north of town to the Shrine of St. Cormak in the Shanty Quarter. It is a dirty little district. People live in the remains of building built just after the main walls of the city. Hovels really, with no types of sewage system. There is a common dumping area near each set of, for lack of a better word, shacks, a common cesspool. Rags are worn by most and shoes are rare. Men have long hair and seem to walk as if soulless. Women have sunken eyes of dispair and hopelessness. In all regards, people here seem to exist.
As the group approaches the shrine however, people tend to wear a smile as a fresh bread bowl filled with potato and leak soup fills their nostrils, embraces their taste buds and fills their bellies. The shrine is a large monument, but it is off to the side, under a large pavilion where people are working. Even as the group approaches, it is clear Father Guud intends to follow the ways of Alemi. By feeding these desperate people, he can help stave of disease or minor infections, which allows him to save his more powerful spells for emergencies.
Behind the pavilion, are wood burning stoves. On the left hand side, the doe is prepared and placed in cast iron pots. They are placed in the oven and after a time, another person pull out the baked bread and prepares it for a heaping ladle of delicious soup. On the right hand side, two people are constantly peeling potatoes and preparing them for hot water. An assembly line of efficiency in order to keep the hungry fed.
Sampson points to a larger man, late in years with neatly cut hair and trimmed beard. He wears an apron over a plain linen tunic and common breeches. In his right hand is a large handled knife with a thin long blade. In his left hand a large potato, quickly peeled and carved into small chunks before being tossed into a pot and replaced with another. He too, has no shoes. "That is Father Guud. He would not like to be disturbed until after everyone has eaten. Come, let us get in line. Not everyone here in the quarter will come to the comforts of Alemi, but Guud always prepares more then enough, in hopes for the day, those people will come."
People seem happy to see Sampson and a few children seem to know him well enough to stand on his enormous feet and hang onto the breeches he wears, laughing, as he walks down the line with the others.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday May 18th, 2010 7:03:19 AM
As Arm follows Sampson into the line, he thinks that before they leave here, an 'anonymous' donation will appear somewhere that Father Guud will easily find it.
OOC: Arm knows of Sampson, their previous landlord, but not THIS Sampson.
Wynum Tuesday May 18th, 2010 10:23:01 AM
"Well that seems to be the best quarter of this city yet! People going around with no clothes, no shoes, eating vegetables. Now I feel at ease."
That said, he eagerly takes his turn in the line. Meanwhile, he has a look around to check whether the people gathered come from a particular race or area of the wold, or if it's typically diverse.
{OOC: All I know is the MO's hangout is the "Sampson's" Inn, which is indicated on the Trade quarter map. But if Arm knows not of NPC info, that means THE Sampson man (or ogre) was never met by the Order}
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Tuesday May 18th, 2010 12:25:21 PM Disgusting. Disgusting and pitiful, Revi thought to herself. A place like this, in the shadow of Plateau City--one of the richest cities in the Wold, and no one but this man and others like him are helping these people. The mayor pays us 1000gp to gather information, but can't spare a copper on these poor souls. Here she had been complaining about the need for gold to join the Chancer's Club, to fulfill her promise to Mems, it all seemed pointless in the face of such poverty. As she waited, she was determined to make a donation--the auction would be a good way to help these people and for her to make a bid, at least 2000gp worth.
Thar Tuesday May 18th, 2010 2:37:47 PM
Thar is sad to see such suffering, but is cheered up that the church is doing as much as it can to help out. He smiles at Father Guud, and doesn't go up and disturb him, as Sampson had wisely counseled. Rather than wait in line, he walks into the church and looks for any acolytes or priests that may be present. He wants to get the "skinny" on the church, Father Guud, etc...
If he finds anyone, he introduces himself and asks about the any problems they've had with undead, other things that may be present, etc.... He intends on asking Father Guud about this later, but he likes to hear more about what's going on...
He sees Revi's expressions and touches her shoulder gently. "We do all we can to help, and no one can eliminate poverty altogether. There will always be the poor among us and we should appreciate what we have while giving a portion of what we've been blessed with. Don't feel guilty for what you have worked hard for. By feeding these people and helping them survive, you've done a great service..."
Trixy 46/46 Tuesday May 18th, 2010 3:30:38 PM
Trixy is absolutely thrilled at the thought of helping the others get set up for the auction. She's been a whirlwind of activity, not only trying to help the others in their preparations for the upcoming auction but also in trying to learn as much as she can about the elections here in the past.
She will find her way to the mages guild and ask them happily whether or not the guild backs either candidate, and if there is good reason.
Other than that, her contributions are small but numerous. Running errands, aiding in tasks, and every once in a great while leaving out doodles of the whole mithril order commanding a giant crab robot as it pounds some undoubtedly evil monster into dust.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Tuesday May 18th, 2010 5:39:23 PM
"Thar," Revi's eyes soft and gentle, "what have I told you about touching me without my permission." Her eyes glanced to the mans hand on her shoulder. Then a few seconds later she smiled, always keep them guessing, she told herself.
Edmund Tuesday May 18th, 2010 5:50:10 PM
Edmund, usually at ease in public situations, looks somewhat uncomfortable as they reach the soup kitchen of Fr. Guud.
"Hmm," he says as he looks around. "Perhaps I have you confused with another innkeeper named Sampson."
Edmund doesn't have any of the stew, and shifts from foot to foot as he looks at the needy people in line for tonight's meal.
"Ah, then," he says haltingly, "What should we, er, I mean how can we, ah... help?"
Edmund Tuesday May 18th, 2010 5:51:55 PM
((OOC: The Order frequents an inn called Sampson's, run by an innkeeper of the same name. I presumed this was the same Sampson. Sorry!))
After dinner discussion / DM Buzz Wednesday May 19th, 2010 2:25:44 AM
It seems, the group knows of Sampson and also, he knows of the Mithril Order, but until now, the parties have not met. Thankfully, it is a friendly acquaintance and everyone gets along well. The walk takes it's toll on some of the heros. The sights are depressing and sad. As well, a resolve has also been etched on the visage of those most effected by the sight.
A couple of hours after nightfall, the last people are served under the illumination of magically induced light stored in old dented lanterns. For those that do not partake, they miss out, for with all the simplicity that went into the soup, whoever was in control of the herbs and spices know what they are doing. Taking large hunks of hot fresh bread and dipping them into the juicy goodness of the nutritious soup could well rival some soup you have tried in the finest of restaurants.
For the left overs, any mothers with children are given soup filled bread, with hunks ripped out of the middle of the loaf. This part is given to the men that have menial jobs in other parts of the city, a slight lunch so that they do not fall over from lack of energy.
Father Guud wipes his hands on his apron before taking it off and placing his knife, after cleaning it, in a nice sheath tucked away under his belly. He pats the lady on the shoulder and whispers words of encouragement in her ear, it appears as she smiles broadly while bobbing her head up and down.
He walks up to Sampson with a large smile, "See my friend. It was not so hard to speak with hero's now is it?" Sampson smiles with a nod, "They are all nice."
Guud walks up to each of you and introduces himself, not as father, but just as Guud, a simple priest to Alemi and humble servant to the needy. "I hope you enjoyed your meal. Sometimes, Sampson has some excess meat to spare and we make a fine broth with it, but we are provided with more then enough to feed these people."
He walks back toward the shrine, gesturing for everyone to follow. Others that explored earlier see the same thing now, as then. A basic empty structure honoring a saint from long ago. Local History DC25
He sits down on a bench that has been well taken care of, "I appreciate you all attending to an old man this evening, but I thought it important that I coordinated the dinner this evening. Please do not take offense at my sending Sampson, it is just, I know he is safe in this section of town, if he were to get back after dark."
A young woman approaches Guud with a concerned glare and conservative clothes. If not for the look of work about her, some would think her very attractive, "Father, I have brought you and your guests some water. Please do try to get some sleep tonight. You have had only ten hours in a week."
The man looks kindly on the woman, "Nessa, thank you for your concern." His voice genuine and without argument, and also completely without agreement. "I have guests now. The water is very thoughtful. Thank you again for your time Nessa. I will ask Sampson to see you home on the way back to his inn."
Sampson nods his head and looks toward the group, "Please come visit when you are done. I will open a new keg, just for your table."
With that, the ogre gently holds his hand out and down, for the human female with dark black hair, brown eyes and slender figure, to lightly place her delicate hand upon his.
The water is cool and has chopped up lemon to add some flavor. Guud drinks his first glass quickly before pouring a second and sipping upon it.
"I have asked you to come here for a very simple reason. These people need role models. They need people like you to recognize that they exist. Every person in this quarter is given the right to vote, yet the majority do not. They do not feel as if their voice matters. They would rather eat rats and roaches then to feel they owe someone a favor. They are desperate for a reason to exist and I need your help in this regard. Now you may wish to just donate some gold and be done with us and I would understand your case if you did, but instead of asking for your gold, I would ask that you gather more interest to this auction we put on every year."
Taking another sip, he continues, "Millions and millions of gold pieces slide through the fingers of Plateau City citizens every year. They earn their money and deserve to spend it as they like, but wouldn't it be nice if we could give the people of this quarter the same opportunity?"
Obviously, he is leading up to something and doing a very good job of sucking you in with whatever he is getting at, until finally, "I would like to raise ten thousand gold pieces to build an addition onto the sewage system that will come into this area of the city. With the removal of cess pools, land fill could be brought in as real foundations could be laid for sturdy buildings to be built by future auctions."
Guud hangs his head down a bit, perhaps a bit disheartened by the magnitude of the situation. "It is a lofty goal and double what we have strived for in the past, but if this quarter could have a major renovation, it would put the people in this area to work, with good pay. Silver that will buy them clothes and perhaps a pane of glass for a window."
Holding his hands together as if begging, "You know the ways of adventurers and merchants. You have stolen the heart of half the city and the other half is only afraid because it is in their nature. I would ask that you travel to the Dragon Quarter. Ask people to donate magic darts or daggers no longer used or needed. Make your way to the Gold Quarter and perhaps ask some there to donate fine furniture or perhaps some jewerly. This auction needs quality items that will bring in quality buyers, willing to spend and compete against each other for something half the value they buy it for. I know, that may sound mean or greedy, but in truth, most people rich would prefer to let others know it, then to not and if their ego will save these people, well, I believe Alemi will bless them in some way."
Guud is a very diplomatic man. Everything he says can be taken as him having the best interests, of the poorest people, in mind.
The diversity of this quarter would allow many racial talents to come into action as this quarter houses mainly the weak. Humans, some goblins and a few kobolds. A few halflings and gnomes. A half orc here and there. These people would be easy fodder for thieves and bandits, but the people here are to poor for even them to waste their time with.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Wednesday May 19th, 2010 6:03:22 AM
Sickened by the situation around him, and quite mindful of their own "soft living" compared to these people, Arm looks at the rest then replies, "Rest assured that we will do the best we can to gather items for your auction, and do not worry...should we not reach your targeted amount, I am certain that the difference will be made up for...even if I have to do it out of my own pocket. Now, how much time do we have in order to get these items back to you?".
Wynum Wednesday May 19th, 2010 9:12:27 AM
Wynum acknowledges the errand, though he seems skeptical of their collective skills at this task. He eyes Edmund, trying to check his reaction, being the one with the necessary contacts.
Trixy 46/46 Wednesday May 19th, 2010 12:09:03 PM
Trixy is quiet for once, her strong mind thinking and filing away different thoughts and ideas as Guud speaks with them.
" Mister Guud. The timeframe is indeed important. I have a lifetime membership to the Star Mages Guild, and perhaps can muster up some donations from the staff there. I've also got run of the house on their facilities and can use the workshops there to perhaps create something especially for the auction. I have a few ideas that might appeal to the fancy do's of this city, assuming we can get them to show up.
I'm also drawn to thoughts of the monster preserve not far out of town. I would never think to enslave a creature of nature for profit, even if the cause were just, but Revi and I both are sisters in the wilds, and perhaps we can put together a perfectly safe tour of the "Danger Fraught Monster Preserve! Home of the evilist and biggest evils mankind could be forced to face!
We could sell tickets to the highest bidders. I would be willing to escort them, and I'm sure the others of the Mithril Order could perhaps find time to help? I can at least ensure they come across a giant eagle.. hehe. With Arm's help and our parties summoning capacity, it could be a right magnificent spectacle!"
Trixy balls her fists and kicks her little feet in excitement. Even if the others aren't on board, she's willing to try and pursue this potential gain on her own, along with crafting a magic item to help with the auction.
"Again, timeframe is important. For both crafting and ensuring safety of a tour, we will need some time."
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Wednesday May 19th, 2010 12:12:13 PM
"I'm not much of a salesman," Revi says, "but I'll try my best." Her demeanor, although brightened by the soup and bread, is still a little overcast when the situation of these people's poverty is so apparent.
Thar Wednesday May 19th, 2010 2:16:25 PM
Thar smiles at Revi's comments, and gives a knowing nod after removing it from her shoulder. "You're not going drive my care away that easy" he adds with a chuckle...
When they meet Guud, he warmly greets the fellow priest and listens to his story. "I am glad to hear of all the work you're doing and the interest you take in improving the people's lives... This auction sounds like a way to being the righteous work you're doing, and asking people for goods to donate seems worthy. I'll speak with some of my parishioners and find some that may be able to give items for sale... As Arm asked, what sort of timeframe are we working with?"
Wynum Wednesday May 19th, 2010 8:36:44 PM
When the team is a bit away, Wynum voices his opinion.
"I don't know. It feels odd to ask us to do this. I'd wish to be mindful of what we're doing, or rather what we're not doing. Basically, we've been kept away from serious business for several weeks now, for various reasons. What is happening in the meantime, we don't know. And there is this sewer thing. Anyways, I will not participate in this fund raising, I see not how I can be of help. I'll continue my investigation with whomever's in. And by the way, Edmund, you haven't told me if you know of a Morgan Whitestone, from Huxwell? You are the only one to possibly know of that person."
If Wynum knows the adress of the tailor who was, according to Arm's investigations, in contact with the arsonists at some point, he will check the place and go there.
Edmund d20+8=14 ; d20+8=14 ; d20+8=11 ; d20+8=26 ; d20+8=17 ; d20+12=22 ; Wednesday May 19th, 2010 9:05:09 PM (For the check indicated in the DM post: Know. Local=14, Know. History=14 -- both fail if the DC is 25.)
Edmund watches Fr. Guud politely, but he is doing his best to determine the man's motivation, just to satisfy himself that such generosity and goodwill can, in fact, exist. For his part, Edmund has nothing to drink and nothing to eat, nor does he go out of his way to fraternise with any of the poverty-stricken people who have turned up to the soup kitchen. Such things, he feels, are better left to the clergy--as Thar has ably demonstrated. Unfortunately, the wizard is far too discombobulated by his surroundings to get any sort of an accurate estimation of the priest's motivation. (Sense Motive=5. Sorry, accidentally used the wrong modifier for that roll.)
Edmund also listens to Wynum's concerns.
"Morgan Whitestone of Huxwell, you say?" the wizard asks. "Hmm. Morgan Whitestone, Whitestone, Whitestone..."
[b](To try and remember Morgan Whitestone, the following checks: Know. Local=26, Know. History=17, Know. Nobility/Royalty=22)[b]
Finally, Edmund isn't much certain of using the Mithril Order as a tool to go a'begging for items to be auctioned, even in a good cause, and on that particular subject remains fairly tactiturn.
"We'll certainly see if people have anything they no longer need," he says, guardedly, considering how the Order might look if people begin to feel pestered by or beholden to them.
((OOC: Again, I am really sorry, but I am going to be swamped with work until we finish door-to-door enumerations. What with reading all the stuff posted for each day, I don't have even the extra few minutes a day to write long posts. Forgive me if I overlook something that you need Edmund to do--put it in bold to call my attention to it and I'll try not to miss it. Luckily I got off a few minutes early today so I had a little extra time, but I'm neglecting all the housework instead. One more time, I'm sorry. Should only be a few more weeks.))
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Wednesday May 19th, 2010 9:50:57 PM
Speaking quietly with Wynum, but not so that the other members of the Mithril Order couldn't overhear, "Wyn, I understand the paranoia--just because someone's paranoid, doesn't mean someone's not out to get them. Do you think we're being mislead? Moved in a direction not of our choosing to take us away from something that others just don't want us to bring to the light of day? And if so, what are we being lead away from?"
Darkness prevails / DM Buzz Thursday May 20th, 2010 1:58:04 AM The group has entered a new module. One that has nothing to do with your last module. Any leads you may look for in regard to tailors or caravans from Huxwell are dried up.
Now, for those characters that want to help Guud Phader, with every attempt when gathering items for donations, that character will receive fifty experience points, regardless of how successful they are. There will be eight of these attempts available. As well, if in these attempts, the group can come to a cumulative Diplomacy roll of DC 40, they will receive an additional one thousand experience points per attempt. Again, there will be eight attempts available. This scene alone is worth over eight thousand experience points. Those that can eat some humble pie and perhaps leave some pride at home, can gain a lot of power, very quickly, for helping these poor innocent people. This may seem menial to some of you, but I believe it is a true test of a hero, to save the lives of hundreds without taking a single life in return.
Guud answers your questions, "My plan would be, to follow the candidates through the city and let them attract the crowds for you. Over the next few weeks, they will go from district to district, giving speeches and having debates. Use that opportunity to advance our cause. I think the auction should be held right after the election. There will be less trepidation, when people finally know where their future lies. Come back at any time and let me know how things fair. Ask those willing to donate good, that there will be people stopping by for the items when it is closer to the auction." When another mentions a safari tour to raise funds, Guud nods his head with a large smile and appeases the gnome, "Every little bit will help, thank you."
For those that Guud recognizes as wanting to help, he shakes your hands and blesses you in the name of Alemi. If there are those that seem uninterested, he kisses you hand, when you reach to shake his and blesses you as well, before stepping slowly down onto the floor and back out toward the pavillion, as if, there is always work to be done.
A single moon, Wardd, hangs in the horizon tonight.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Thursday May 20th, 2010 3:18:22 AM
"Arm needs to take the lead on this. His skills in diplomacy far outweigh what the rest of us can do--but we need to be there for support (aid another rolls). Also, Arm, you should buy a Circlet of Persuasion, it'll really help what you already are good at (+3 to charisma based skills). I think in addition to the richer quarters, we should pay a visit to the Chancers Club and speak to the community event organizer there; the mayor and his opponent and maybe the Star Mage guild--lots of rich wizards there."
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Thursday May 20th, 2010 6:04:34 AM
Arm ponders Revi's suggestion and says, "That sounds like an excellent idea, my dear. As soon as we pass near a local branch of the Catacombs, I shall stop in and procure one.".
Thar Thursday May 20th, 2010 3:58:12 PM
Thar adds his support to Arm's suggestion and says, "Yes, that's a wonderful idea. Anything to help us with our persuasive skills... I know that in my case, I'm not very good or patient with those types of things..."
To Guud, he shakes the mans hand, but says, "Because of my faith, I can't receive your blessing Father. However, your support and friendship is valued and I look forward to helping you in your mission...Where is the first destination, the first district you'd like us to show our support? "
He's a little unsure of what to do first, and queries the rest of the group, "So once we get this circlet, what do we do next? Do we need to start gathering items now or do we wait for the first district?"
(OOC - I'm a little confused here... DM Buzz - Are we doing our donation gathering individually or as a group all at once? Your Xp awards seem to be based upon doing them independently. However, It seems wiser for us as a group to do them as a collective whole each time. For example, if I go to my church and ask for donations, it would be better if I take the rest of the Order, introduce them personally and then let Arm do the actual presentation and request for donations... At least that's what tends to work best in RL in these sorts of things...)
DM Buzz: Some people may not want to help, so this has to be done individually, however, I have created a system that encourages cooperation and team work in order to succeed. So if the group can not come up to a DC 40, at least those that tried receive some reward.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Thursday May 20th, 2010 7:48:22 PM
ooc: lets make a list of 8 places that the group wants to visit. Arm makes the primary roll and the rest of us make our contributing rolls Diplomacy DC10 to give him a +2 to his roll (we do this 8 times). It'll be hard to make 40, but we can always try. I suggest:
1. Mayor Lynom 2. Opposition opponent Caal 3. Chancers Club 4. Star Mages Guild 5. 6. 7. 8.
DM Buzz: Instead of having you all actually role play out each donation scenerio, I will just tell you guys, where in the city you are and then you can make your rolls. That will save a bunch of time. Also, you will not be visiting specific people but specific quarters.
Edmund Thursday May 20th, 2010 9:40:08 PM
((OOC: DM Buzz, you say 'cumulative Diplomacy 40 roll'. Do you mean we are all to roll a Diplomacy check, and add that together? That is what that seemed to mean to me. Or, do you mean that, as Jim seems to think, Arm makes a roll and we all Aid Another eight times to try and push the total over DC 40?
I don't think I am alone in my confusion here. Could you just spell out *exactly* the rolls you want us to make, and how, and when? This is an unusual circumstance you are setting us so it would be best to have instructions in full.
Jim/Revi: Lynom isn't the Mayor, Sturtevant is. Lynom is the town councillor whose crest we recovered. I suspect we should visit both Lynom and Sturtevant, so that puts your list at 5 so far.))
Edmund suggests that the Order visit Wil Kommen's Import and Export Emporium.
"It seems to me that such a profitable business owes us much, and could easily find something to spare from amongst either their various goods, or their significant profits."
"Also," he adds, "what do you think of the Catacombs? Perhaps they would be interested in helping out in our charity drive. They're only the biggest retailer in the Wold!"
DM Buzz: I would highly recommend you have a main diplomacy person and the rest aid, but I will not tell you how to go about getting that diplomacy total. You may not just add your skill rolls together, though.
Trixy Thursday May 20th, 2010 11:31:39 PM
Trixy begins to pip up again, but scowls and bites her tongue. A very dark expression falls over the little gnome as she very quietly slides off her chair and plops to the ground. Forget it. She'd offer to just make the circlet for Arm, but he probably wouldn't answer her anyways. Let them spend their own damned money.
She crosses her arms and taps her small foot on the floor, as if thinking for a moment, then reaches a decision.
She thanks Guul for his time and offers him a genuine smile. She walks out towards the door, with nill to say to her new companions.
Once outside she pulls her cloak's hood up over her pink pigtails and stalks quietly outside on her own, save for Bandit chittering happily on her shoulder.
"What am I doing here?" she muses.
Perhaps this isn't where she belongs after all.
She stalks onwards towards the Star Mages guild, intent on asking them some questions about the upcoming charity and the elections as well. It would take her no more than 4 and a half days to craft Arms circlet, but she never recieved a hard timeframe for the auction.
(I know it's planned for after the election, but I'm not sure if the debate which is mentioned as 1 week away is synonymous with the election date. If there's only a week, spending 4 and a half days to craft an item to be used for 2 and a half days if kindve silly. If it's longer, then it would be worthwhile. Same goes with the item she wants to craft for the auction. )
The election will be a shaky issue for them. Recently trends in the tower are to distance themselves politcally and officially, although many of the College are more than cordial with the current mayor.
The auction would be another issue. Milet Waan, Archmage of Abjuration, holder of a seat in the College of Archmagi, was formerly a priest of Alemi. Surely he would help the Order.
(This information is found in the woldipedia. Alemi rung a bell from before when I was creating Trix, and reading on the Star Mages guild.)
She ended her somber walkabout on the on the steps of the Star Mages guild. She looks over her shoulder at Wardd and sighs, wondering what her ma and pa are up to. A soft chittering in her ear reminds her where she is, and tiny footfalls take her inside the guild.
"Hello."
She speaks quietly to the aid working the desk. She ignores the fact the apprentice doesn't immediately notice her. She's used to it by now. She's not necessarily imposing after all.
"My name is Trixy Thornbopple, Mystic Theurge of the Mithril Order and Lifetime Member and Journeyman Mage of the Starmages Guild. I'm here to speak with the Department Head of Magic Items.
I know it's late and I probably wont get audience until tomorrow, but it's very important we speak with one another.
I require two missives sent, one to the previously mentioned department head, and the other to Milet Waan. Both marked moderate importance."
She sighs, and fishes in her pocket for a few gold. She remembers the difficulty involved with being an apprentice student. If it werent for her split studies, she would have advanced much quicker in the guild than she has currently. As it were, she only outranked the apprentice here by one rung on the ladder.
She leaves the gold on the counter top and smiles.
"I also require a room for the night, so I can be awoken as soon as my requests are answered by the two magi in question. I realize that you technically aren't allowed to take this, but lets just say you found it on the floor. I hear there's a few places in town that make a very yummy berry pie. You might check it out when you get some free time. "
She winks and tells the student to hang in there.
As she finds her room, she curls in for the night, very much aware that if it werent for Bandit, at this very moment, fresh out of school, un-acknowledged by her companions, and seperated from her parents, she would be feeling very much alone indeed.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Friday May 21st, 2010 12:16:08 AM
"Where is she going?" Revi shrugs her shoulders, obviously the gnome was upset about something, but oh well, Revi wasn't her keeper and she was pretty sure Trix could take care of herself.
"So here the list so far:
1. Lynom 2. Opposition opponent Caal 3. Chancers Club 4. Star Mages Guild 5. Mayor Sturtevant
So we need a few more."
Once we get the list, then everyone helping should make their Aid Another rolls for Arm.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Friday May 21st, 2010 9:42:45 AM
Arm frowns at Trixi's departure as well, but more pressing matters are at hand, "I shall go to the Catacombs branch immediately, and be back shortly with the circlet.". He then asks Guud the location of the nearest branch and heads there.
Darkness prevails / DM Buzz Friday May 21st, 2010 11:38:16 AM
ooc: I apologize for missing a post last night. I was so tired I couldn't think straight. Eyes were crossing. I thought "All I need is a power nap" Well, it was a goodtwelve hour nap for sure. Post coming tonight. Also, I responded to some of your questions yesterday at the bottoms of your posts. I don't want you to visit individuals, specifically. We will be rolling for quarters.
Thar Friday May 21st, 2010 11:43:35 AM (OOC - Let's add Thar's church of YHWH to the list... We'll call it a megachurch, so it's big, lots of people with wealth... "The Church of the Gospel...")
Thar looks at the list and says, "My church has some philanthropists with wealth, and they would surely give to help out the cause. Whenever there is a need, they are more than willing to give..."
Edmund Friday May 21st, 2010 2:31:09 PM ((OOC: Revi/Jim, you didn't add Wil Kommen's Import Export Emporium to the list.))
Edmund watches as Trixie toddles off, and inwardly sighs with relief. Finally, a day free from being pestered with all manner of idiotic questions about gears, cogs, and goblin machinery. "What does she think I am," he mentally asks himself. [i]"I'm a wizard, not an engineer!"[/b]
Edmund's negative view of gnomes probably doesn't help matters, especially when the normally garrulous half-elf can't even get a word of his own in edgewise.
"Have you written down Wil Kommen's yet, Revi?" he asks the barbarian, aware that her memory might not be entirely up to par--and also aware that she has developed quite a knack for ignoring his voice. "You should definitely include Wil Kommen's. If you haven't written it down. Which it seems you haven't. So you should write down Wil Kommen's, Revi. And we'll go there. To Wil Kommen's, I mean."
Feeling a bit mischievous, the wizard smiles sweetly at Revi after this irritating oration.
"So, will we all visit each location, as a group? That seems best, to me. We're likely to get the best result ((OOC: and the highest cumulative roll)) if we all go together and each use our particular capabilities to endear the crowd to this noble cause."
"Surely," he continues, "we should be able to raise plenty of support for Fr. Guud's charitable auction. I'm willing to bet that, with an election coming up, both Sturtevant and Caal will be eager to be put down for a large sum--and I bet we can even play them off, one against the other, to get more from each. As for the churches, no doubt Thar has plenty of insight into those!
Edmund cracks his knuckles as he thinks, before concluding, "When do you think we should go? It should not be overly difficult to visit all of these places in the space of a day. Shall we begin, bright and early, tomorrow?"
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Friday May 21st, 2010 3:22:04 PM
"Huh, what? Did you say something Eddie?" Revi smiled innocently.
Trixy turns and tumbles in her sleep, filled with the oddest of dreams. Edmund is a fire-breathing turtle, flying on the back of a majestic griffon.
He can't understand her, so she is writing ideas on how to end his horrible transformation on pieces of scroll parchment.
Everytime she tries to show him one, he burns it up, then flies away.
Fidgeting in her sleep, she accidentally kicks Bandit , who bites her toe in revenge.
Wynum Friday May 21st, 2010 5:29:50 PM
"I don't know the place, but what about the Adventurer's Guild? Certainly if we are helping, they too could. And there's the Walkers, but unfortunately Ruby's not here right now... Also... maybe we could ask Rabbitsfoot. He might not have items to donate himself, but what about those confiscated from criminals?"
{OOC: Buzz said one roll per "quarter", so we need to be sure it is really meaningful to list groups and people? As for the Catacombs, would it be doable to actually talk about this auction on the Cats board and ask PCs for items in exchange for XP or something?}
Not so fast / DM Buzz Saturday May 22nd, 2010 3:47:28 AM Trixie feels dejected that her ideas are not widely accepted, but the humble priest did not attempt to dissuade her from her ideas. Perhaps he found the idea of keeping people that are otherwise food for the animals in the monster preserve, safe at all, let alone show them creatures for money, is a bit hard to swallow. On her way through the trade quarter however, her mood is brightened by a group of gnomish troubadours as they prance about her and all but sweep her away to Sampsons Inn. He was quite a nice fellow anyway, even for an ogre and free drinks? Please, who would want to pass that up. Highlight to display spoiler: { Sorry, but I don't know how long the party wants to spend here, so I would rather you not make posts about you sleeping when you could still help the group. :) }
Everyone knows that the debates for the politicians will begin tomorrow and the election is not for a month. There is plenty to do however and when the group arrives at Sampsons, they see their new gnomish friend partying hard with the same group that brought her here. The place is busy, but not packed. Some people leave and a table is cleared just for you folks. Sampson isn't seen right away but you are expected and as he promised a keg of wine is brought to the table. It is stoppered and sealed, ready to be poured into glasses or mugs, your preference.
After a bit, Sampson comes out from the back and says hello to everyone. "Thank you again for hearing Guud's words. Whatever you like is on me tonight."
The group can talk and discuss and have a good time.
Now, the debate starts tomorrow, in this very district the Trade Quarter. It is then expected to move into the Merchant Quarter. It is during these two debates that the group will have their first attempts at bringing in some fortune for the people in Shanty Quarter. Two quarters per roll. Since there 17 quarters, I would like to refine things a bit if you don't mind. :)
I will give you a description of each quarter and the results of your finds, after I see how high the final Diplomacy check, after the primary roll and any that aid. Reminder. Anyone that does not aid, will not receive 50 exp for trying, not will they receive 1000 experience for succeeding. Even if he is seen to succeed already.
All for one and one for all...
Role play this evening and roll when you are ready to begin.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Saturday May 22nd, 2010 3:54:40 AM
Revi couldn't help but see that Trixy had abandoned the Mithril Order for a band of her own kind. Maybe that was the best for her, maybe she just need a gnome's night out. Whatever the case, Revi took up Sampson on his offer and ordered a tankard of mead for herself--hopefully the honeyed drink would smooth her trepidations of hawking the idea of auction to people she didn't even know; She spoke with her sword, not with words.
Trixy Saturday May 22nd, 2010 5:52:45 AM
( Meh. The point wasnt so much about the sleeping as it was making sure I could get ahold of the ex-priest holding sway in the Star Mages guild as quickly as possible. I might not have rp'd it quite correctly, but that was the intent.
Surly, yes, but not even near abandonment. I thought that was made fairly apparent in the way she announced herself in the guild, not that the party would have heard it.
She announced herself a MO first, not last. I figure if Trixy holds any influence in order to help the party at the moment, it's there, since she holds rank and membership, and would likely be known. I dont dare assume too many gnomish wizard/druid/theurges graduate from the place. I didn't plan on making the diplomacy roll on my own, just speaking to the two afore mentioned men in order to prime the pot, so to speak. I spent a decent amount of time on the Woldipedia studying the guild, and found something I thought useful.
Anyways, I guess I've been swooped back into the doors of Sampson. DM Redirect it is! Party on, 12 con gnome. ))
Edmund Saturday May 22nd, 2010 1:16:16 PM ((OOC: We need four more quarters to visit before we can make our rolls. Suggestions?))
Edmund arrives at Sampson's and, seeing Trixy is there and a party has already begun, looks for the Ogre innkeeper expectantly. Strangely Sampson is not around, but the wizard is delighted with the prospect of a free wine cask, and sets into that with abandon. After several glasses of the good stuff, Edmund votes Sampson "A capital fellow and earnesht fweind of the good people of Platypus City!"
After this, Edmund sits down with a bump in his chair, and smiles happily at his feet for some time.
((As soon as we have a list of the eight quarters we're going to, I'll post Edmund's eight diplomacy rolls to "Aid Another" Arm's overall roll.))
Not so fast / DM Buzz Saturday May 22nd, 2010 2:10:32 PM
ooc:
I have a problem with relating what I am thinking sometimes, so please forgive me as I try to explain this again.
This is how I would like things to work, to make it easier for me and clearer for you.
Everyone, please make one roll now, if your character is helping whether you are aiding or the primary roller.
When I determine if the results are positive or not, I will then give you a description of your outcome and then I will mention which two quarters the candidates will be visiting next.
It will be at this time, the group makes another roll and I will go into what happens from that roll in the DM description, etc...
So lets not jump the gun. The scene has to run a couple of weeks. I am not trying to get this done in one.
Lets have fun role playing. Who knows what will happen if Arm rolls a 1?
I am going to say, the Catacombs branch has been flooded out by a cursed magic item and will be closed a couple of days, so you may want to use some potions or find other methods of uping your charisma abilities.
Whatever you do, that item, unless you have it listed on your character sheet, will not be available during this first debate.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 d20=19 ; Saturday May 22nd, 2010 3:26:48 PM
Diplomacy aid another roll: 19
Edmund d20+15=25 ; Saturday May 22nd, 2010 3:51:21 PM
Diplomacy (Aid Another) = 25
Wynum d20=2 ; Sunday May 23rd, 2010 1:46:52 PM
"I'll be listening for rumors in the Trade quarter. I am missing the atmosphere and, really, I mean it when I say I won't drink, plus we don't want the Order to look like drunk carousers all the time, do we?" That said, Wynum enacts his plan and tries to provide extra hints to Arm, and comes up with lots of tips on proper caring for wooden kitchen implements.
{Diplomacy (Hinder Another): 2}
Trixy d20=15 ; Sunday May 23rd, 2010 3:50:15 PM
Diplomacy - Aid another: 15
Hurry up and wait / DM Buzz Monday May 24th, 2010 1:10:36 AM
Sampsons bar turns busier as the night lingers on. The group can eat and drink as much as they want in this very safe haven for the Mithril Order. The day comes early and some may wake with a hang over. For one or two, that does not hurt their ability to help their bard spokesperson.
Need more rolls...
Florian will be taking over for me Thursday and Friday. Monday is a holiday, so no post is mandatory on a day to remember our honorable dead. This includes those great countries that have assisted the U.S. in many wars together.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] d20+17=35 ; Monday May 24th, 2010 8:48:05 AM
Arm relaxes as well, taking in a rather large flagon of mead, but somehow he cannot get the plight of those less fortunate than they are out of his mind.
OOC: Wow, not too shabby...diplomacy 35...hehehe... :)
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Monday May 24th, 2010 8:49:32 AM
OOC: OH, Buzz...should I continue with my transaction at the Cat? I don't want to hold them up, and I'm fine with waiting to use the item...and I'm not only saying that because of my high dip roll...lol
DM Buzz: You can continue to wait for the Catacombs or you can use the resources that are available to you, in other players. Which ever you prefer.
Thar d20+2=6 ; Monday May 24th, 2010 2:27:54 PM
Thar's tries his best to aid another in diplomacy, hoping that Arm is able to gather some support for their mission... Ouch... Roll = 6... At least Arm rolled a 35...
Trixy Monday May 24th, 2010 2:56:52 PM
During the party, Trixy stumbles around, setting her big eyes on Arm. She teeters his direction, carefully balancing a cup in each hand. She pokes him in the leg, stealing his attention from whatever lass it might be settled on.
" Hey. "
" Hey. "
" Hey. "
She talks herself in a loop a couple of times before catching a track for her train of thought.
" I can make yer hat o' fancy pants. Ya can still buy it if ya want, but I can make it on the cheap. Jess need a coupla days to do it. You tell me. I'll be with Goliath over there. "
Trixy turns and skips back towards an ugly dwarf balancing gnomes on his oakbarrel arms.
"My turn!"
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Monday May 24th, 2010 5:13:54 PM
ooc:sweet, with Arm's 35 and our aid anothers, looks like we've beaten the DC40 needed :)
Edmund Monday May 24th, 2010 5:54:16 PM
Edmund looks pleased at the reception which the Order's appeal is yielding.
"Quite good, quite good," he says as he surveys the scene. "But needs more wine! And sandwiches. Get your friends to bring us some more wine and sandwiches!"
At this, he grips his chair firmly. "Earthquakes!" he exclaims in surprise. "Magiquakes!"
First debates / DM Buzz Monday May 24th, 2010 8:19:10 PM
The candidates talk casually with the crowd as several adventuring groups have come, along with the hundreds of other people that populate the Trade Quarter and the Merchants Quarter, in turn.
Of course, the voiced concerns of the populace in this area, revolves around trade. There are concerns that if a king were to take control, all manner of laws could change, that would not only disrupt the economy of the greatest city in the Wold, but even that of other nations, all the way to the Taur Islands and even Fargunia! Caal insists that as long as there is a governing board of individual people, no one person could cause that type of catastrophe, nor could any heirs... The fact Stutevant has none does not come to question.
The reigning Lord Mayor insists, "All reigning Kings and Queens must follow the law everyone has too. When that time does come when one of my offspring or one of their offspring does not follow the law, then it is then that they must face the law. You people are the law!"
Stutevant then goes into great detail on what the annual income is for the governing council people. All of whom are wealthy and influential. "The money this city could save would greatly benefit the rest of this city! Half of the Counsels income alone could feed the entire city for a month. If we broke that down to just those that need it, the rest of the money would go for city improvements in and around all quarters."
Some think it is worth it, to pay the extra for the City Council, but in these two districts it seems clear that Stutevant has the majority of opinions, as long as trade is not hindered.
The next two days, proves greatly beneficial to the philanthropist adventurers. Is a name change in the works? They accomplish, with great skill the ability to work together as a team. It could be that some had a rough morning and was not capable of aiding as well as others, the glib and smooth bard that pours honey from his lips and with his eyelashes, bats star dust.
A whole lot of widows with cash donate to the groups cause. Some lost their husbands at sea on a voyage. Others, through bandit raids or natural hazards that kill hundreds of merchants a year. While these ladies seem to be the majority, they are not all that donate. A grain trader has naught to offer but one hundred pounds of grain to the people of Shanty Quarter and another, a dwarf, has a spare wand. "Just found it in a dungeon. Don't know what it is, but I can't use it. Maybe they can."
Trixie is able to help, by making the magical item, but she needs to make any necessary rolls, in order for it to count in the next series of debates.
The Noble Quarter has decided, that they all should attend the debate in the Wealthy Quarter, to avoid..."problems", so the next set of debates will occur in the Wealthy Quarter and the Gold Quarter.
Congratulations on a successful endorsement of Guud Phader! Experience will come at the end of scene.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 d20=19 ; Monday May 24th, 2010 9:44:25 PM
Another Diplomacy aid another roll for the honey-tongued, Arm: 19
Trixy Tuesday May 25th, 2010 1:50:56 AM
(DM, No skill rolls on wonderous items. Just time alloted to work on the item and gold spent. Arms and Armor have fail chances, but not wonderous items.)
Very well, thank you. Does it take two or three days? Did you need to subtract experience for the item?
Trixy Tuesday May 25th, 2010 8:35:34 AM
(Yes, I will. It will cost Trixy 2,250 gold and 90 xp. It will take two days and 3 hours to complete. I dont exactly have an experience total for Trixy. Should I be matching Revi?)
If Revi is the least experienced here, than your experience should match hers, for now.
Thar d20+2=7 ; Tuesday May 25th, 2010 9:41:08 AM
Since they're now involved with the latest debate, Thar listens closely to the various sides. He's still not a fan of human diplomacy and favors more of a republic style of governance. In this case, he's still not sure which side he'd vote for and is curious how this will all pan out...
Since the Wealthy quarter is next, Thar checks his church contacts for wealthy parishioners or others who would be able and willing to give. He takes that information and gives it to Arm, hoping to help him know which people to direct his comments toward...
Aid Another Diplomacy = 7
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] d20+17=28 ; Tuesday May 25th, 2010 10:46:43 AM
Arm shares Thar's dislike of human governing for reasons previously stated, and likewise is unsure of who would be the better candidate to vote for. Hopefully the subsequent debates will provide a clearer picture.
Looking to Trixy, he says "Yes, I think I would like that. Please construct one for me, and I shall pay you for your materials accordingly. We can always use an extra one, and perhaps someone else could use it in the meantime...". As she staggers off, he wonders if she'll even remember his acquiescence once the night is over. He then begins to prepare for their next round of charitable collection (diplomacy=28).
OOC: Buzz, would you kindly shoot me off an email so that I can complete the Cat transaction with you and Jim C? I haven't used the circlet yet...thanks! :)
Wynum d20=16 ; Tuesday May 25th, 2010 11:33:32 AM
Though Wynum is not very much at ease in these wealthy quarters, certainly his luxurious cloak has done the trick and convinced noble houses of the higher standing of the order.
{Aid Diplomacy 16}
Edmund d20+15=17 ; Tuesday May 25th, 2010 11:57:31 AM
Edmund is very, very at ease in the wealthy and noble quarters of the city, and spends more time hobnobbing with the guests (several of whom he knows) than actually helping out the Order's business there. Alas for easily distracted mages.
Nevertheless, Edmund's association with the order does help to loosen the pocketbooks of those he has favourably associated with, and Arm might find his appeal reaches more charitable ears now that Edmund has had words with the men of repute.
Diplomacy (Aid Another) = 17
Trixy d20+4=19 ; Tuesday May 25th, 2010 5:30:53 PM
Trixy doesn't get to spend much time in the Wealthy quarter. Chipping in to the groups discussion, she doesnt feel like the humans are doing it right at all.
There isnt a big enough council and not nearly enough subcommitees. After all, if you can't convince 24 other members of a governing body an idea is good, then why should the 24,000 people buy it? And without 24 committees to examine the proposed bill, how can you be sure you know exactly how it's going to affect all 50 subcommittees?
Never the less, she spends a little time asking for donations, doing her best to ignore slowly fading prestidigitated tattoo that reads "Goliath", which mysteriously appeared on her leg sometime in the wee hours of the morning.
Before attempting to persuade a particularly looking wealthy individual, she dolls herself up, casts heroism (lasts 50 minutes), and then Eagles Splendor on herself right before throwing out her sales pitch.
(+2 skills rolls form Heroism, +4 charisma from Splendor. +4 total bonus. )
Aid Another = DC 19
She smiles and excuses herself, heading back towards the Star Mages guild to continue work on Arms circlet.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 90/90 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Tuesday May 25th, 2010 6:54:18 PM
currently we are at 36. If the DM allows Arm to use the circlet, then 39. We need one more successful roll, or Thar could use a hero point and reroll, but that's up to him. Who else hasn't rolled?... oh, after checking I see we are down to 6 active players, that kinda sucks.
Dm Buzz: Eight thousand experience is a lot of experience to gain for a single scene. I don't really expect you to succeed on each and every endeavor. I figured, when I made this system, you will get four to five thousand pretty easily. Don't beat yourself up, if you miss one or two, just be very, very happy if you happen to get, six, seven or eight thousand out of it. Also keep in mind, if you all see Arm fail terribly and you fail to assist him anyway, that is just fifty less experience points you will recive. If he fails three or four times, well, that is one hundred fifty to two hundred experience missed.
Second Debates / DM Buzz Wednesday May 26th, 2010 2:04:57 AM ooc: OH, so close!!!
It is clear at the onset, the most wealthy and noble people in this city do not at all, like the idea of a king. Why? They have the most to lose. In fact, from a wealthy perspective, the king owns everybody and everything in his line of sight and for those with richly furbished mansions and a booming income, that is just way to much to lose.
Stutevant puts on an incredible display of diplomacy, but Caal takes the stage and does not give it back over the next two days. It is a small wonder that the adventurers collected very much at all, but still, there are the rich and noble, few as they may be, that do want to help others and they give some very nice items.
One thousand experience not achieved in this debate. Moving on to the next section of the city, will be your ADM's choice. I give Florian full authority to kill you all if he wants to, so stay on his good side. :)
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] d20+17=28 ; Wednesday May 26th, 2010 10:55:38 AM
Not to be discouraged, Arm presses on and hopes to do better the next time (Sigh...diplomacy=28...again...lol OR, 31 with the circlet).
Thar d20+3=8 ; Wednesday May 26th, 2010 11:29:28 AM
Thar is a bit frustrated at their failure in gathering such a little amount for the church's mission.... At least they've got a few things...
He prays that they'll have a better result next time and maybe Arm can work a little bit of magic with his charm and elegant speaking style...
He decides to cast Guidance on his aid another check, hoping to help Arm a bit more than last time... (Aid Another = 8... This stinks..... 3 bad rolls in a row...)
(OOC - Len, since these go over a few days, Thar will have time to refresh his spells each day... Let's assume that Thar casts guidance on ARM each time we go into a new quarter, so you get a +1 bonus on your diplomacy roll!...)
Trixy Wednesday May 26th, 2010 1:34:17 PM
( I assume arm knows heroism? Use that or inspire competence fo even more bonus if you aren't already?)
Second Debates / DM Buzz Wednesday May 26th, 2010 1:49:45 PM ooc: Just checking in before heading out. Florians post will come at his covience today.
Guidance only lasts a minute. Whoever is helping Arm can specify, speels are cast before certain greetings and salutations to gain some merchandise for the auction. As long as you understand the complexities of what you are doing.
Please, if you are using spells, make a spell list also for each day, because you never know what can happen and when it happens, I want you to be prepared.
See you all Tuesday.
ADM Florian Wednesday May 26th, 2010 1:57:45 PM
The next day of debate is staged in the Dragon quarter. It is not, by far, the most politically sound place to hold a debate, but it has been chosen for other reasons. It is time for Stutevant to move on to more favorable crowds, and rumors have he managed to convince his opponent that the Dragon quarter would be favorable for him. There is indeed, a lot of inns and taverns to attract crowds, and quite a few wealthy adventurers or mages.
What Stutevant failed to mention, is the wide Adventurer's Square, which turns out to be conveniently close to the hindquarters, where he might hope to recruit the vote of the poorest, those who might like the notion of a strong hand to control and tame down the nobles.
And quite a crowd it indeed attracts. As the party finishes his business the place is bustling and alive with the cries of rally, carousing and even impromptu merchant stalls over the Square. Criers relay the opponents' arguments, with some embellishment to merit a coin. With all the commotion it is all but impossible to guess who took the upper hand this day.
It is very practical that the debate takes place so close to the Catacombs, and Arm managed to get hold of his circlet {OOC: if it's been ticketed at the Cats yet}.
{We have Arm's roll, pending extra spells, and Thar's aid. Waiting for others' rolls before posting the resolution.}
Wynum d20=3 ; Wednesday May 26th, 2010 2:00:45 PM
Of course this quarter would be the perfect place for Wynum to express his wanderlust, but the crowd just gets on his nerves. He just can't stand people swarming behind him where he can't well see, not to mention the small kids scurrying underhoof. But honestly, there's deep inside some ressentment from the centaur towards the Dragon Consortium, and that may explain a lot.
{Aid diplomacy 3}
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 d20=4 ; Wednesday May 26th, 2010 2:32:38 PM
"We ain't getting nothing in these quarters."
Aid another roll: 4
Revi's Daily Spells ----------------------- (4) Guidance -- will use on ARM to get better results (1) CLW (1) Magic Fang (1) Produce Flame (1) Barkskin (1) Bull's Strength
Trixy d20+4=16 ; Wednesday May 26th, 2010 5:10:03 PM
Trixy again wakes up early this morning, helping out as best she can before the debates are held. Adventurers are common here, so she is sure to wear as much of her gear as gnomishly possible in an effort to impress anyone she might meet.
She casts Heroism on herself, as well as Eagles Splendor, then attempts to move a successful looking adventuring party to hear the plight of the cities poor, and then educates them on how they might help.
" And after all. When you can throw around a maximized fireball, do you REALLY need to hoard that 1st level creator Wand of Magic Missiles?"
ADM Florian Wednesday May 26th, 2010 7:07:36 PM
{Waiting for Ed, though it won't cut the DC40. Posting for next round of discourse tonight as I will be unavailable tomorrow morning.}
Edmund d20+15=18 ; Wednesday May 26th, 2010 9:04:28 PM
Edmund does his florid best to aid the efforts of Arm--the half-elf Wizard's silver tongue, after all, being almost as moving as the bard's is. To this end, there are successes, and Edmund manages to win over a few more to the cause of the Mithril Order--even here in the Dragon Quarter--with his own rhetorical flourishes.
"Quite the day," he says as he returns to his companions. "How do you think it all went?"
Diplomacy (Aid Another) = 18
ADM Florian Thursday May 27th, 2010 2:43:03 PM
Certainly the commotion in the Dragon quarter didn't help with the itemraising. Adventurers begging other adventurers for magic items? Maybe that didn't work out well.
{Even factoring spells we didn't cut the DC40 but we're close! The fact that the Order is down to 6 doesn't help...}
After the turmoil in this quarter, the next days take the debate to a quick and brief detour to the Nightmare quarter. Though the assassins and rogues of the city like to wander around those streets, it also home to the temple of Gargul, a faction that cannot be ignored, and serves as a central plazza to gather followers of Domi and Alemi. The debate turns out chaotic and uncertain. Neither opponent seems to get a good grasp on the diverse crowd - in fact so diverse that more arguments pop up within it that between the orators themselves. Gnoll clerics pick on lizarfolks' faith and old arguments about summoning rights are rekindled. Soon the situation becomes too tense to benefit from the debate, not too mention the rampant thievery that benefits from the chaos. The debate is ajourned with no clear winner - and no clear topic.
Wynum d20=5 ; Thursday May 27th, 2010 2:45:15 PM
By this point, Wynum has obviously pretty much lost his drive and wanders almost aimlessly, wondering where his heroic skills could be better used. In fact the calluses on his string fingers have but disappeared and his tail lays oddly still. Attempts at getting items from religious folks and rogues are not his forte and he helps so little.
{Aid Diplomacy: 5}
Thar d20+4=24 ; Thursday May 27th, 2010 3:05:37 PM
Though they failed in their efforts in the latest quarter, Thar is simply glad to get out of the Nightmare quarter. He'd much prefer being out in nature rather than the oppressive confines of a dangerous, rough area of town, ... all these humans crammed in together ... "
He tries to prepare for the next debate and ensures that he has plenty of spells prepared to help Arm out in his diplomacy... Since guidance has such a limited timeframe, he makes sure he has several memorized. At key times in the event, debate and fund raising festivities, he'll surreptitiously cast it on Arm and merely touch him on the shoulder to give him the bonus... He doesn't want to appear obvious...
ALSO, he'll cast Eagle's Splendor on himself, enhancing up his Charisma for his own roll for a 7 minute period when things seem most important...
Aid Another Diplomacy = 24 (Nat'l 20... about time!!!)
Spells Memorized (Assume cast at least one guidance and 1 Eagle's Splendor so took off the list...) 0 level = Guidance (3),Det Magic, Det Poison 1 level = Bane, Bless, Comp Languages, Divine Favor, Sanctuary, Shield of Faith, Prot from Evil 2 level = Aid, Find Traps, Resist Energy, Lessor Restoration, Spiritual Weapon 3 level = Dispel magic, Invis Purge, Sum Mon 3, MCvE 4 level = Neut Poison., Sum Mon 4, Holy Smite
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 d20=14 ; Thursday May 27th, 2010 3:11:20 PM
Revi makes sure that she's holding onto her stuff throughout the quarter, as she doesn't want to lose anything with the sneakthieves running about--even going so far as using her "Hair tie" of disguise to make herself less a target. Even with all the paranoia, she'a able to benefit Arm as he talks to people and hopefully aids him a bit more with the use of her Guidance spells. Cast Guidance on Arm to give him a +1 on his Diplomacy roll. Revi can cast it 4 times a day for him.
Aid Another roll: 14 Success!
Trixy d20+4=14 ; Thursday May 27th, 2010 6:26:17 PM
Trixy happily carries the Mithril Orders new Circlet of Persuasion with her that Day. Since Arm already has one, she figures she might as well carry it. Parterning herself with Wynum for a change, she lets him wear the circlet while he attempts to garner support, and she also casts Eagles Grace on the surly Centaur.
She casts Eagles Grace and Heroism on herself, as usual, and quickly jumps in when it looks like Wynum is faultering in his discussions. Giving the Centaur a friendly pat on his flank as they walk, she says..
"See? It's not that bad is it! You did fine!"
She takes the circlet of persuasion back from him as they leave the quarter, not quite sure what Arm wanted to use it for.
(Aid Another: 14 - Success.) ( Circlet of Persuasion + Eagles Splendor will raise Wynums result by 5, putting him at 10. Another success, if our Co DM allows it. Thats the trouble with PbP. It's hard to keep things in order! Especially if that Order is Mithril....)
Edmund d20+15=23 ; Thursday May 27th, 2010 8:01:34 PM
Edmund once again mingles, smiling and sneering as the situation dictates. His adaptability really shows itself when he deals with people, and when he actually tries to be charming and persuasive. It is apparent that he is the son of a politician. In these matters, he excels.
Once again, Edmund manages to get some of the attendant the masses to listen to Arm's case.
"Seems like we're doing all right," he says, surveying what they have been pledged thus far. "Still, it could be a lot better."
Diplomacy (Aid Another) = 23
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] d20+23=28 ; Friday May 28th, 2010 9:52:55 AM
Thinking that he'd be better off just donating out of his own pocket, Arm tries once again at the next stop. This time, however, he is more prepared, not that it seems to matter much (diplomacy=28...AGAIN...lol).
OOC: OK, here's the breakdown: Arm will cast heroism on himself before his task, giving him a +2...with Thar's spell and the circlet, that will bring him up to +23 each time. Another option he can use is to bardsong 'inspire competence', but there's a small snag with that...he cannot cast it on himself, and the others must be able to HEAR him sing. The best way to do that is to huddle just before his request, as it doesn't last long after he stops singing....only a few rounds. I don't know how MANY requests we are making in each quarter, so I don't know how feasible this option is, so I'll leave it up to our mighty DM to adjudicate. :)
ADM Florian Friday May 28th, 2010 12:07:06 PM
{Just to clarify: the rolls we are making ARE for the Nightmare quarter. We're not out of it right now... From my calcuation, the total roll is 38... Even factoring Guidance, that'd be a wee bit too short. I will leave the spell use adjudication to Buzz. Anyways, I don't know which quarter is to be visited next...}
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Friday May 28th, 2010 1:34:53 PM
Arm could use a hero point to reroll his roll, needing a 7 or better to make it.
Thar Friday May 28th, 2010 2:08:08 PM
Lurking... Not sure what to do next...
I think the issue here is we don't have enough people...
We must get a 40 total...
We have 5 people to help him, so if each one of us gets high enough, we add a +2 for total of 10.
Arm THEN needs at least a 7 on the roll to pass it...
FOR every one of us that doesn't make it, he's got to get a 9, 11, 13, 15 or 17 respectively...
SO it appears the odds are against us here (50/50 shot he'll get a 10 or less, and then worsens as you get higher... even with adding bonuses, etc.... Not a good thing... Is my logic on target here?
Edmund Friday May 28th, 2010 2:26:27 PM
((OOC: In the interest of maintaining amity, I just wanted to say that I don't know if it is appropriate to be suggesting to Arm's player (whether explicitly or implicitly) when he should use his Hero Points.
I know that if I were making these rolls, I sure as heck wouldn't be blowing Hero Points in an effort to get a bit of free XP. I'd save them for life-and-death matters when it could save a PC from being killed. I would also resent being made to feel that the Hero Points I have earned should be used at another person's beck and call.
It seems unfair for anyone to put pressure on Len to use his Hero Points. Surely they are his to use when he sees fit, and not before. Therefore, we should probably keep such suggestions to ourselves.))
Trixy Friday May 28th, 2010 3:04:05 PM
( Florian, is it 38 with Wynum's new result, modified by the item and spell he recieves from Trixy helping him? )
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Friday May 28th, 2010 5:39:44 PM
ooc: Well, obviously this was aimed at me. So you're suggesting we don't make suggestions... maybe you shouldn't make suggestions not to make suggestions--and it was a suggestion, hence me saying, "could use" not, "use your hero point." If he needed a 10 or better I wouldn't have made the suggestion because the chances aren't that good, but right now he has a 65% chance to roll a 7 or better. Maybe it's worth it to him to expend a HP for 1000xp. I've spent HPs solely for RPing purposes here in the Wold, why not make the suggestion? If anyone is trying to strongarm someone, well...
Edmund Friday May 28th, 2010 8:40:46 PM
((OOC: No, Jim, it was not specifically aimed at you, as several suggestions in that vein have been made over the past week. There is no need for you to take it personally and to respond in such an acerbic and aggressive fashion--such a tone is quite uncalled for and really has no place here.
It is very clear to anyone who read my post that my suggestion was not to 'avoid suggestions'. It was to avoid pushing people about over how to use their Hero Points. You say you have used yours for RP purposes--that is well and good. But, how about we let Len decide how to play his own character? As I recall from a recent interchange, you are all for that.))
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Friday May 28th, 2010 9:27:15 PM
ooc: why not let Len speak for himself, instead of you doing it for him. I made a suggestion, not an outlandish one and you took us to task on it--which I feel is not your place.
Furthermore, how could you say it was not directed at me? I'm the only one who has made the suggestion of using a Hero point--do a search in the last two weeks. Your use of the words, "resent", "blowing Hero Points", "used at another person's beck and call", and "unfair for anyone to put pressure on Len" are not polite words amongst friends and definitely NOT what I said or implied. I made a simple suggestion that he "could" use a hero point, no more, because his chances of success were pretty good. I never tried to strongarm him, or tell him "if it were me..." to make him feel pressured into using one. You have different thoughts about the use of HP's than I do--that is well and good, to use your phrase, so how about we let everyone keep an open line of communication and talk about and suggest things and not take it personally. If Len has a problem with, all he has to say is "No" and thats that--we move on.
ADM Florian Friday May 28th, 2010 11:03:57 PM
{Trixy, if I'm not mistaken, 38 figures everyone's rolls inc. the morale boost your provided to Wynum. Everyone succeeded their Aid, as Thar outlined. We just got unlucky on Arm's roll!}
Edmund Saturday May 29th, 2010 10:03:59 AM
((Jim: After looking back, I see that you are right in that the other suggestions also came from you--I thought they came from Trixy and Wynum. But surely, my assumption shows it was not directed at you, but rather at the entire group.
The comments I made about resenting blowing Hero Points were related specifically to me and were entirely hypothetical, as, again, anyone who reads my post can easily see. I did not ascribe those feelings to anyone else. They are my feelings and mine alone. Trying to take them out of that context is disingenuous.
Once again, I reiterate that it seems unfair to continually pressure someone into doing something just so that we can gain a material advantage from it--because it carries with it the implication that they should do this or else they will be 'letting the group down.' It also sets up a precedent that it is okay for one person to tell another person how to play their character, as long as they do it in the guise of a harmless 'suggestion'.
You say that this is a matter for Len. But, of course, there isn't only Arm to consider. I do not particularly want this tactic of 'suggesting' how to play our characters to gain ground here, because, after all, I have to play here too, and don't particularly want people to be 'suggesting' how I should play my character all the time.
We've seen how people respond in the past to others telling them how they ought to play their character. Of course, some people are more polite than others about such matters, too. Why put anyone in that position?
And finally, I am all for keeping a line of communication open, but the comment about using a Hero Point has been suggested several times. It hasn't been employed. Why keep suggesting it? At what point does it stop being a 'suggestion' and become strong-arming: When it has been suggested three times? five times? ten times?))
Trixy Saturday May 29th, 2010 12:48:15 PM
( It'a my personal opinion that we should all keep blowing hero points until we have a battle fleet of consisting of no less than 5 Apparatus of the Crab, modified to fit together in times of extreme danger to form a Crabatron Elite, which has chainsaw hands and can shoot lazers.
Anyone not on board with this idea has let us all down, I say.)
Edmund Saturday May 29th, 2010 1:20:35 PM
((Kenny: You've got all my Hero Points at your disposal. Make it happen. Edmund, BattleCrab Magi. Has a nice ring to it.))
Thar Saturday May 29th, 2010 1:25:33 PM
In the interest of party peace, let's remember why we're here... To have fun and enjoy fellowship, albeit over the Internet, but with the same idea... It seems that several of us have strong opinions about the subject of hero points, and you've all made very good arguments supporting your sides.
As suggested, keeping lines of communication open is important and we need to feel free discussing things that are on our mind without it becoming a conflict. How about we merely agree to disagree on this and set the matter aside for now...
We've had a strong group and harmony for many years in RL and please let's keep what we've developed, OK?
Edmund Saturday May 29th, 2010 1:51:44 PM
((Ken: Agreeing to disagree is fine by me, but you've neglected to promise me a BattleCrab. I'm certain this is something you've just overlooked...)
Thar Saturday May 29th, 2010 1:55:10 PM
Ouch... Yes, Battlecrabs.... Gotta love them... I promise you Ed that when we're there, I'll give you one... Count me in Trixy and Edmund ;-)
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Saturday May 29th, 2010 4:07:34 PM
Well obviously we have a different opinion of what constitutes giving advice and telling someone how to run their character, so let's leave it at that.
Battlecrabs for the win!
ADM Florian Monday May 31st, 2010 10:45:40 PM
{Sorry I do not know the next quarters to be visited and I don't want to decide in case there is something special planed.}
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday June 1st, 2010 10:01:17 AM
OOC: OK, now I'm going to finally weigh in...I haven't checked this board since my last post, so I probably could have nipped this in the bud and avoided all the hair pulling and eye gouging...anyway, I digress:
Jim: Sorry to say, but I have to agree with Ed (for once...lol! I'm still trying to get over Ed defending Arm...THAT is freaky!! ;) ). I'm aware that I could have used a hero point, but before I even read his post, I chose not to, and for the same reason: a life and death situation either for his own sorry hide or for other members of the team. I appreciate the suggestion, and as long as YOU are OK with my Goddess-given right to say 'no', then we're good.
Ken: I like the sound of the Battle Crab as well...Arm of the Battle Crab....VERY "Voltron-ish" :) I claim the "Arm" with the sword, though... ;)
Second Debates / DM Buzz Tuesday June 1st, 2010 11:01:08 AM
ooc: Quite a little stir has arisen since I left, it is clear.
First of all, I want all in game ooc posts to end here. We will be taking them to emails. I will begin the email this afternoon or this evening after I speak to the PTB.
I am disappointed is all I can really say right now. Not with anyone in particular, just in general.
More to come / DM Buzz Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 1:08:22 AM
ooc: As a DM, I am torn right now.
My first instinct is to continue with the module while things are going on behind the scenes, but the fact is, I have not heard from Cayzle or Jerry about this yet, which leads me to believe, they are talking to players without me.
I also don't want others to think I am minimalizing their issues with a new DM post until this is resolved, so for tonight, there will be no DM post until I hear from a PTB, hopefully on Wednesday.
Please post if you feel like it, take a break and breath if you don't feel like it.
I understand and I want to make sure whatever happens, everyone is satisfied, as much as possible, with the outcome.
Thanks again for playing.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 7:21:49 AM
ooc: Well I for one didn't have a problem with the situation...it's not like I had a gun to my head forcing me to use a HP... ;) Hope everything turns out OK, but I can assure you that I haven't gotten an email from either Cayzle or Jerry, regarding this or anything else.
Nellie Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 9:26:46 AM
Just poking my head in and saying "Hey"...
Uhmmm...wow! Some high emotions here!! Still, I'm proud to see how professional you guys while you're working out the kinks! You guys ROCK!
Thar Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 10:28:33 AM
OOC - Buzz.... I haven't heard from anyone either, and I'm not sure what needs to be "resolved." It seems that we've moved on past the issue we were debating and now we're ready to keep moving. What do the PTB's need to decide? No one threatened or cursed at anyone else here, so why aren't we still playing?
Also, the MO has been playing for years now and we've had debates here and there, and they've usually been fruitful. I don't see a huge conflict here and with all due respect, I'm concerned that you're seeing it as a bigger thing than it really is... I hope you're not taking any of this as a reflection on you as a DM. We're getting used to you and you're getting used to us, and there will be bumps in the road in any change. So let's keep moving forward and things will flatten out...
Do we really need to take a break or should we just keep going and enjoy the module? My vote is to keep playing... ;-)))
More to come / DM Buzz Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 11:12:19 AM
ooc: Some people have expressed a disinterest in this module so far and others might be leaving. What is most important is that we all get on the right track and I am still waiting for PTB intervention on a few things.
However, if everyone is ready to move on, I would be happy to continue as we were, as if nothing has happened.
Thar Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 11:20:41 AM
Thanks for the response Buzz and I didn't know some might be leaving... I hate to lose people...
Let me know what I can do to help and otherwise, I'll wait for the other issues to be resolved... Glad to have you as a DM ;-)
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 3:10:24 PM
I'm ready to keep playing. If someone doesn't want to act on the advice someone else has given, I have absolutely no problem with that.
More to come / DM Buzz Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 7:05:43 PM
ooc: I have heard from Cayzle and the PTB are working with some players. I will make a generic post tonight and we will see where this leads us.
Debates abound / DM Buzz Thursday June 3rd, 2010 12:56:19 AM
The disaster of the Nightmare Quarter was quickly over, making the visit to the Dragon Quarter seem quite pleasant in retrospect. The group didn't lose any items in the bustle, but a punch in the face here and there was definitely called for, teaching the less honorable citizens to respect the distance of the Mithril Order.
With this, Caal and Stutevant have decided to postpone the next debate for a day or two, allowing the city militia to contain the almost riot like atmosphere the lawful and organized debate brought to the most chaotic part of the city.
During this time, the group can also organize themselves. Perhaps visit Guud? There is also some donations of magical items that are unknown, perhaps the group can earn a bit more experience in the Catacombs, asking if the facility will use an Identify spell on the items, as a small donation to the cause?
The groups time is their own of course and some may consider it begging, but the remembrance of watching children with swollen bellies of malnutrition and eyes, sinking deep into their sockets from little rest and poor shelter, may bring those not willing to beg, back to the notion, that their cause is both noble and heroic.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Thursday June 3rd, 2010 7:39:54 AM
Heaving a great sigh, more so out of relief than frustration, Arm addresses the group once they hear of the postponement of the debates "I think we should head back to turn in what we've accumulated so far to Guud...the quicker he gets them, the more easily he'll be able to begin organizing the auction. Also, it would diminish our risk of having some of the items stolen in the process."
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Thursday June 3rd, 2010 12:46:14 PM
"Sounds like a good plan, Face, I mean, Arm. I pity the fool that tries to rob us."
Wynum Thursday June 3rd, 2010 1:57:42 PM
"Yes, we've had a few setbacks, but this plan... well it seems to be coming together. Let's see Guud and render the magical fat of these items. I wonder, though, what he'll do with all these donated potions of magic fang? You know it almost looks like the items the citizen have gathered are... random. That's odd."
Edmund Thursday June 3rd, 2010 3:11:17 PM
Edmund thoughtfully eyes the potions of Magic Fang.
"Might be able to use those for something--but no, they are for the auction. Alas."
"Yes, let's take them all to the worthy Fr. Guud," Edmund concludes. "Leaving them around here they will just get lost, stolen, or used on accident."
Grinning at Revi, Edmund nods. "To be sure. Not only are there your axes to contend with, but my numerous alarms and wards. They won't even time to say, "It's a trap!" before the whole manor is upon them."
Trixy Thursday June 3rd, 2010 7:33:35 PM
Trixy holds up the new circlet of persuasion that she finished, although Arm already has one.
"Hey! Who needs this? I can't remember who I made it for, only that someone wanted it. If no one cares to claim it I'll toss it in with the other auctionable items."
Thar Thursday June 3rd, 2010 9:13:26 PM
"Yes, let's turn some of these items in. At least they'll do some good and I hope that the money eases some of the people's pains." He sees Trixy's circlet and says, I'm not sure who wanted it, but we should at least use it to aid our efforts in the future rather than selling it..."
He hears Revi's comments and says with a grin, "Hmmm... maybe we could get someone to try to rob us... It'll add some excitement to the boring political speeches we're subjected to..."
What the? / DM Buzz Friday June 4th, 2010 12:38:57 AM
The group has an early morning and contemplates what the days events will be like, since the political environment has manifested some negative results in the latest round of arguments and what of the promises by those that wish to control and govern the lives of others?
There, in the kitchen, while everyone is discussing the good priest Guud and talking of the items so far gathered...
It is then a disturbing sound that interrupts the conversation!
Indeed, the sound is coming from the front door and no knockers are used, nor a bell attached to a cord is rung, but a heavy banging, like a battering ram, is being used against the large, solid and locked entrance of the manor.
WHAM>>>WHAM>>>>WHAM
A repetitive motion for sure as the walls actually quake with each and every heavy solid thump that lands upon the entry way obstacle.
If someone is breaking in, they are in no way subtle on this early morning encounter.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Friday June 4th, 2010 3:49:21 AM
"Whoooooooo isssssss iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiit? Revi says in a very girly voice while drawing out her blade and running to the side door that opens into the stables. Once through that bolted door, she opens the stable door cautiously, then moves out and peers around the corner to see who is at the front door.
Trixy Friday June 4th, 2010 9:16:29 AM
Triixy's immediate thought is the Ogre assistant they met earlier. She understands the need for caution however, and prepares to cast a mage armor spell should something mean and ugly pop through the door.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Friday June 4th, 2010 9:56:13 AM
Immediately alert, Arm says to Trixy "We'll discuss your circlet later, I promise!". Drawing his sword, he moves to the most advantageous position near the door while saying to Ed "Are your wardings and glyphs in place?".
Thar Friday June 4th, 2010 10:39:26 AM
Thar is a bit disturbed at the person's rudeness, and stands to the side, wondering who it could be at this hour. He tries unsuccessfully to hold in a chuckle at Revi's amusing retort while drawing his bow and readying an arrow...
Wynum Friday June 4th, 2010 11:58:47 AM
Wynum doesn't want to block the entrance, and instead goes back to the living room and checks through the openings or windows for any presence behind or around the Manor.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Friday June 4th, 2010 3:03:08 PM
ooc: it should be noted that when I made the floorplans for the Mithril Manor, I didn't put any windows in since I was told it was rather fortress like and since ivy is covering the exterior walls, it covered up that fact.
Edmund Friday June 4th, 2010 3:38:29 PM
Edmund hurries into the common room and stands on the side furthest from the door. Turning to Arm, he nods.
"Oh, yes," the wizard says with a hint of a grin, "though I somehow doubt we're going to need an alarm, considering the method they are employing."
((OOC: Remember, the only spells Edmund was capable of casting permanently were Alarms. The other useful spells were above his level for permanency.))
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Saturday June 5th, 2010 2:40:57 PM
ooc: I didn't get the email and sent a request to Jerry, but if someone could forward it to me and the replies, that would be great.
Wynum Saturday June 5th, 2010 4:02:47 PM
{OOC: Jim, it seems gci.net blocks gmail as spam, which might explain you didn't receive it.}
Thar Sunday June 6th, 2010 4:36:56 PM
Lurking... Sent my email to Buzz and Jerry w/ my opinions...
Trixy Monday June 7th, 2010 12:16:55 AM
Missed it here. Someone Forward it please. Still deployed so I may have just missed it.
DM Buzz and his opinion Monday June 7th, 2010 10:19:45 AM
ooc: Please give me another day. I am waiting for one more email from Jerry. He has a few things on his plate so please be patient and we will get back to our regularly scheduled posts.
DM post will come tonight.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Monday June 7th, 2010 10:20:04 AM
OOC: This will be my last ooc post here regarding our discussion...it'll only make it that much easier to delete all of them later... :) If anyone still needs a copy of the email, let me know, and I'll copy and paste it to a Google docs page so everyone can have access to it. :)
Someones knocking at the door/DM Buzz Tuesday June 8th, 2010 1:34:20 AM
The mithril order moves about the manor in different manners before investigating the sounds at the door.
It is seen that one in the party is correct, it is indeed the large ogre Sampson that is at the door.
His hair is dishiveled and his clothes wet with sweat. He is panting very hard, but that does not stop him from continuing the knock which seems to put the Mithril Order on alert for danger.
Will someone answer the door? Or will the barbarian druid approch from another direction, since she is the only one really able to see who it is?
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Tuesday June 8th, 2010 3:19:17 AM
"Samson!" Revi yells out to the Ogre from her flanking position, after closing the stable doors, "It's me, Revi! Mithril Order, open the door!" She yells to those inside, then turns back to Samson, "What's the matter?"
Trixy Tuesday June 8th, 2010 9:28:56 AM
Trixy runs over and opens the door, then rolls out of the way quickly as she can. It's perhaps a uneeded precaution, but big ogres in a hurry hold a very real threat of turning someone as small as she is into a pancake.
Edmund Tuesday June 8th, 2010 11:46:04 AM
Edmund is surprised by the arrival of Sampson, having fully expected this to be an assault on their headquarters.
"Well, my good fellow," he says as the door is opened, "It seems urgent! Let's hear it then, if you will but pause only to catch your breath!"
Thar Tuesday June 8th, 2010 12:37:30 PM
Thar joins Trixy at the door and says, "Yes, what's the problem? Are you hurt? How can we help you friend?"
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday June 8th, 2010 2:56:03 PM
Arm agrees with the rest of the party and adds, "Yes, please come in and rest. Can we get you something to drink?".
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Tuesday June 8th, 2010 3:01:24 PM
When Samson heads in, Revi enters back through the closed stables--making sure they're locked from the inside again and after giving a quick look around the stables, joins the rest in the parlour and locks that door too from the inside.
Spirits involved?/DM Buzz Wednesday June 9th, 2010 12:52:17 AM
Sampson, upon close examination, appears almost pale as the sun rises slowly across the horizon. The moon of Wardd slowly passing across and away toward the Red Hills.
He takes a glass of water offered and his hands shake in a manner not seen in such a large and very intimidating individual.
"Gh..oos...sst. There is a ghost!" His eyes are wide as he begins his tale, sitting down resting trembling knees.
"Father Guud heard tales, that a ghost in the north east side of town would appear and if it touches someone, it would bestow a blessing of Flower. He asked me if I knew anything about such a creature. Well, I thought it should be looked into and indeed, there is a ghost!"
He gulps down some water and continues on.
"I didn't know what to do. But with all the undead coming up out of the sewers, who knows if it is the ghost in question or a bad ghost?"
He looks down at his feet, almost ashamed.
"A wave of fear washed over me, like it never has before. I have dealt with drunks and adventurers. I have been stabbed, punched and even shot by a crossbow, but never have I seen such a thing."
He shifts his shoulders and attempts to regain the pride you have seen in him before.
"I knew of nowhere else to go. Father Guud has many duties and most don't care to help unless it puts coins in their pocket. I am sorry. I did not mean to bring you into this, but I am worried, as is Guud, that this ghost will bring poor people to her for a blessing and only the worst can happen."
Sampson looks almost ashamed, "Perhaps, I should not have come here. You all have far more important things to tend to, then dealing with the hysterics of a cowardly brute like myself."
Sampsons voice is now sad and guilt shows in his eyes, " I am sorry to disturb you. I will see myself out now, as I have wasted your time."
His large form stands now, his shoulders slightly rounded forward as he bids you all good day and hands the empty glass to the nearest hero willing to take it.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Wednesday June 9th, 2010 1:44:26 AM
"Well. Bye."
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Wednesday June 9th, 2010 10:23:12 AM
Arm lays a hand on their giant friend and says, "Hold. The people that you and father Guud have been kind enough to help have enough problems in their lives without anything worsg we happening to them. Rest yourself for a moment longer, as I must confer with the rest of our group.". He then motions to the rest to an adjoining room, adding when they get there, "We cannot allow these people to be tricked by this alleged 'ghost'. I'm of the mindset that their lives are far more important than the auction...we can always supplement what we've gathered, but what can be done when they start to disappear...obviously they're not cared about by too many people, so SOMEONE has to...".
Thar Wednesday June 9th, 2010 12:43:45 PM
Thar shakes his head in disapproval at Revi's short and perfunctory response to Sampson. To make up for it, he joins Arm in comforting Sampson and says, "Friend, it's not a waste of time. There's nothing to be ashamed of in feeling fear and apprehension around ghosts. Many people do and I tend to get queasy around them too. Don't feel bad and your feelings are perfectly natural."
He quickly gets up, joins the group and says, "I'm with Arm on this one. Let's find out what the deal is with this ghost and if it's related to the undead coming up. There's nothing I hate more than undead..."
Wynum Wednesday June 9th, 2010 1:05:22 PM
Wynum more sensible party members than himself deal with the panicked Ogre, and confers with the cleric.
"Thar, ghosts and fear are two things that barbarians have no truck with. Revi's reaction is understandable, and her feral upbringing makes her not as charitable or interested in such eerie events as you do. Anyways, what do you make of a a ghost speaking in the name of Fflower? Does that sound possible? I know little of these manifestations. Could this be a trick? In any case, this looks like the kind of thing we could investigate." "Arm, when he calms down, we need all information on the location and circumstances of that apparition. He might be reluctant to guide us." "Oh, and also, why don't we have windows in this place?"
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Wednesday June 9th, 2010 4:13:58 PM
Revi shrugs and sighs, "Alright, let me get dressed while you boys find out where we need to go." Rising, she strode off wearing naught but some panties with little kittens on them and a sheer tank top--accompanied by her massive sword, of course.
In her room she don's her steelgrass armor and wakes up Arashi, who had noticeably been losing weight due to his irregular diet. "We have to go chase after a ghost, Arashi, so let me put on your armor and let's get going." When done, she and her wolf joined the others downstairs.
Trixy Wednesday June 9th, 2010 4:49:14 PM
Trixy gathers up her stuff and readies herself for the task at hand.
"Well, it certainly would have been nice if the ghost had given us untill tomorrow so I could prepare more useful spells. As is, this is will interesting. Maybe it knows something about building a giant crab apparatus.
It would be fascinating to meet a dead gnomish engineer!"
Edmund Wednesday June 9th, 2010 8:32:42 PM
Edmund's [SOMEWHAT-POINTED] ears perk up at the mention of a Giant Crab Appartus, but he quickly shakes his head, doing his best to avoid becoming distracted.
"I'm ready when you are," he says, glancing aside as Revi rejoins the room. "Glad to see we're all dressed for the situation."
Edmund is a bit relieved that he was still awake and dressed, and as such wasn't compelled to re-enter the common room in his midnight blue pyjamas, emblazoned all over with little, golden moons, stars, and lightning bolts.
"All right. Who wants to lead the way? Preferably, someone with a lot more armour than me. How about you, Revi?"
With a sidelong glance at Arashi, he adds, "Has Arashi been losing weight? He looks... smaller. Not small, of course--medium-sized, I'd say, for a wolf. But smaller than he was!"
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Wednesday June 9th, 2010 11:13:24 PM
Revi looks at the wolf, "Yes, his diet here isn't as fulfilling as out in the wild. It just doesn't seem to be suiting him. He says he's been pooping under your bed, Edmund, so I'd watch your step in there."
Full moon necessary/DM Buzz Thursday June 10th, 2010 12:06:26 AM
The discussion of the ghost digresses to wolves wasting away and fecal jokes, but the seriousness of the situation is still plain as Sampson is seen to be recovering from his exposure to the haunt of the northeast side of the city.
"She was traveling along the northern bank of the Endless River, but from what I hear, she is only seen on the night of a full moon. There will be a full moon every day this week, with Wardd or Kerracles rotating through the sky."
He stands once again, now very happy that the Mithril order has taken an interest. "I will let Father Guud know, you will take up this endeavor. I doubt you will find her in the day light as she has only been seen when Thermo is hidden, but I suppose, that does not mean she is not around during the day."
If asked to guide the group, Sampson replies, "Me, travel with hero's?" Ever see an ogre blush? Well you do today, "I...I don't know what to say, except it would be an honor!" His spine is straight and his shoulders back. His pride has again resumed it's previous station and emboldened he becomes. "Just stop by my bar when you are ready to head there and I will take you to where I saw her and I pray my courage is greater then last night, by Domi's will of course!"
Unless there are further questions, Sampson leaves the group to their day's activities, whatever those might be.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Thursday June 10th, 2010 4:18:50 AM
"Lets scope out the area during the day I guess, then come back tonight? Geesh, it's way too early for all this."
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Thursday June 10th, 2010 11:08:55 AM
Arm agrees with Revi, "Yes, let us recon the area now while the light is available...whether or not we see the ghost, at least we'll have an idea of the territory involved, which will make our job easier later.".
OOC: Nice post Ed...chock full of hidden meanings...lol
Wynum Thursday June 10th, 2010 11:42:07 AM
"Great. That way Sampson could show us the place during daylight, it will be less risky. We'll come back later. That said... I might use that day to enchant arrows. I have an idea that could help if ever that ghost turned out hostile. They could be ready for this evening."
Edmund Thursday June 10th, 2010 4:50:08 PM
Edmund is happy to wait, as he had only just begun to study when the knock came.
"Well," he says, "This evening, we'll be ready for anything this 'ghost' --or whatever it is--can throw at us.. It's probably only children playing pranks. Nevertheless, there's no harm in being prepared."
Thar Thursday June 10th, 2010 5:24:19 PM
Thar readily agrees to scouting out the area in daylight, especially if they'd have to fight at night. "Lets get the lay of the land and make sure we know where we'll be fighting... Also, I'll have a chance to prep the right spells for use vs undead."
He puts his armor and eqpt on and is ready to go scouting when everyone else is...
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Thursday June 10th, 2010 11:09:40 PM
"Lets get some breakfast on the way back, I'm famished, and Arashi here could use a raw steak."
Daylight dilemmaDM Buzz Friday June 11th, 2010 12:21:28 AM
ooc: No post from Trixie, but we have to move on.
The group can quickly catch up to Sampson. If the group would like to go to the location now, he nods his head. Even though he runs a tavern and was up all night, then run a couple of miles to notify the heros of his encounter, even through weary lips, "If now is when you want to go, now is when I will show you what I saw."
He walks with the group, mainly quiet as the vendors begin to take to the streets with their wares. Food as always is easy to find in one stall or another and as always, meat pies are available, but finding a raw steak is difficult. The faithful hound will have to settle for medium rare at best, which still has the flavor of blood in it.
Taking Riverside Road, the group with their tour guide leads you towards the Druid Quarter, but just before reaching it, he points to where the creature wanders along the same road you are on. "It was here when I saw her and she was looking across over there, as if she was waiting for something to be seen. I started to walk up to her when she turned toward me. I did not have my armor or weapons and I was unprepared for her to notice me. I suddenly felt very vulnerable. Even now, I wish I had my club, just so I would have something in my hand. It is less menacing now that Thermo shoes us daylight.
The group investigates the area and they can cross a bridge to the other side, overlooking where the wall of the city circles around the Druid Quarter. All seems clear though as people come and go while watching the hero's in their investigation, yet none seem willing to talk to them, except this little old lady wearing rags. She has no teeth and her hair, long gone silver, is matted, with what appears to be a nest lodging some common insects. "Looking for a blessing of Flower are ya?" She cackles. "Don't be in a rush, not many have been given the gift." The woman limps away, not asking for money or food, which is unusual for this side of town.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 d20+11=31 ; d20+5=20 ; d20=3 ; Friday June 11th, 2010 3:15:18 AM
Revi looks at the old woman with an acute eye as she walks away, trying to discern if there was something odd about her (Spot 31, nat20!). Even Arashi gives a sniff in her direction (Spot 20), and looks back to Revi curiously. "She's probably the ghost in corporeal form. Hmpf, well, let's take a look around, ask if anyone knows anything and then head back until tonight. Sound like a plan?" Aid Another roll for Gather Info: 3, fail!
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] d20+17=34 ; d20+12=26 ; Friday June 11th, 2010 12:21:25 PM
After conferring with Samson to see if the old woman looks anything like the "ghost" from the night before, Arm agrees with Revi, "Since there seems to be little else to do, we should try to gather what information we can before returning this evening. However, another option would be to follow this woman to see where she goes...". Should the party choose to ask around for further information, he does the best he can to gain further information (diplomacy=34, gather info=26).
OOC: Buzz, I made the 2 different rolls, as my diplomacy skill check has higher pluses, but since both rolls are relatively high, the choice is yours as to which one you'd like to use :)
Thar d20+2=19 ; Friday June 11th, 2010 4:52:29 PM
"Both ideas sound good to me," says Thar. "My preference is to see if we can gather some info from some of these people... But a few of us should briefly follow the old woman and see where she goes."
(don't have my pc sheet with me but here is an aid another for gather info ... I think it is +2... = 19...
Thar d20+2=19 ; Friday June 11th, 2010 4:52:42 PM
"Both ideas sound good to me," says Thar. "My preference is to see if we can gather some info from some of these people... But a few of us should briefly follow the old woman and see where she goes."
(don't have my pc sheet with me but here is an aid another for gather info ... I think it is +2... = 19...
Trixy Friday June 11th, 2010 6:19:25 PM
( Sorry! I was in a convoy all day today and yesterday, and a lot of the country here has no internet lines it seems. Im pressed for now, but I'll post tonight shortly. )
Edmund d20+5=9 ; Friday June 11th, 2010 9:46:37 PM
Edmund does his best to help Arm coax information out of people. Unfortunately, the wizard missed his breakfast in the haste to get out and gather information, and is consequently in a surly and unpleasant mood. He doesn't help much at all. (Aid Another with Gather Information=9, Fail)
"Ugh," he says irritably as they look around. "I'm famished. When can we go back to the manor!?"
Trixy d20+5=10 ; Saturday June 12th, 2010 11:15:31 AM
Trixy tries to help Arm as well, though she wont cast any spells to do so. She manages to uncover a few tidbits, which may or may not be of much use to the smexy bard.
[ Gather info = 10. Aid Another success. ]
Wynum Saturday June 12th, 2010 12:08:05 PM
With the plan set for the evening, Wynum actually stays at the Manor. He hurries to his workshop and takes the morning and part of the afternoon to modify a handful of arrows with hairs of a phase spiders and ghostly owl feathers.
{Enchanting 5 existing Mwk arrows with +1 Ghost Touch, +2 equivalent. Base price = 5x2^2x2,000/50 = 800gp. Crafting time = one day (8h). Material cost: 400gp. XP cost: 32xp.}
Enjoy the experience / DM Buzz Monday June 14th, 2010 4:11:15 AM
Debate one participants. Revi 50 experience. Edmund 50 experience. Wynum 50 experience. Trixy 50 experience. Arm 50 experience. Thar 50 experience. Success! 1000 experience each for group effort.
Debate two participants. Revi 50 experience. Trixy 50 experience. Thar 50 experience. Arm 50 experience. Wynum 50 experience. Edmund 50 experience. Failed. 500 experience each for group effort.
Debate three participants. Arm 50 experience. Thar 50 experience. Wynum 50 experience. Revi 50 experience. Trixy 50 experience. Edmund 50 experience. Failed. 500 experience each for group effort.
Debate four participants. Wynum 50 experience. Thar 50 experience. Revi 50 experience. Trixy 50 experience. Edmund 50 experience. Arm 50 experience. Failed. 500 experience each for group effort.
Each character receives 2,700 experience each. Please add this to your character sheet and if you go up in level from this, make your hit point rolls on the LnB and adjust your character as soon as possible.
Then the debates were put on hold...
The group now finds themselves chasing a ghost near the Druid Quarter. While Wynum constructs devices to use against the immaterial, the rest of the party heads off with Sampson to look for the lady of the road. While they are near, they can also, if they want to, tell Guud of the nearly eight thousand gold pieces worth of goods they have collected. Some magic and other things like fine furniture and jewelry of decent quality. Indeed, a few carts will have to be hired to carry everything in one load, but with the donations of money also given, that fee can be taken out of the proceeds easily enough. Revi looks close at the old woman, for signs of the undead, but all she can clearly see, are the insects crawling through her hair appear to be river roaches, harmless for the most part, if not disgusting. IF the old woman is wearing a disguise, it is far to real looking for good taste. Sampson answers Arm as he begins his quest for more information. "No, she does not look like that." The ogres face looks upon the old woman with sympathy while staying with the party. Thar begins talking with people, getting a feel for the area and it's inhabitants.Edmund helps in the gathering of information, but perhaps, he is distracted by the sites and smells from across the river. Even Trixie lends in a hand and a voice. Her cute demeanor easing the unease some people have around those that deal with death on a regular basis.
The old woman is known to be crazy. She is seen to occasionally eat the occupants of her fantastic hair do, sitting on the steps leading down into the river. She talks to herself and speaks nonsense for the most part. The only legible thing she has talked of was the ghost itself and a blessing.
Yet, a young man, with the appearance of a hangover is willing to talk. "Oh yes, no doubt, she exists. I haven't talked to her though. I thought I had drank to much, so I just walked by. Then, when I turned around, she was gone. I thought she had jumped in the river, but no sign of her. Odd encounter really, she even said good evening to me and that is what made me turn around, as hallucinations don't normally talk to me."
He sticks around if you want him to, but clearly he is in need of a horizontal surface and a pillow.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Monday June 14th, 2010 5:41:10 AM
Old business: Arm suggests that they should relieve themselves of the auction items while they are so close to Guud's residence, and also suggests that they pay for the carts to bring the items in order to maximize the auction's profits.
New business: Not wanting to insult Samson, Arm draws the young man to the side and says, "Tell me, kind sir...did you have any feelings of dread, fear, or anxiety when you met the ghost?". After the answer, he discretely slips a gold coin into his hand and says, "Please use this for a few hot meals and whatever else you may need...it would me a lot to me if you'd follow what I say.".
Trixy Monday June 14th, 2010 10:12:14 AM
( Char sheet updated. Quick Rundown for the DM.)
[ 3 Hp ] [ 6 Skill Points - 1 Diplomacy (cc), 1 Concentration, 1 Spellcraft, 2 Language (Auran) ] [ Feat - Spell Focus: Conjuration ] [ Spells per day as Druid 6/ Wizard 6 ]
Trixy is pleased to have found another lead. As the young man speaks on his encounters, she appears very interested.
"Was she wearing any specific jewelery or unique clothing? Anything at all that stands out as something rare?"
Thar Monday June 14th, 2010 11:01:44 AM
Thar agrees with getting rid of all the extra items and return the proceeds to Guud or whomever seems best to receive them.
He joins Arm in speaking with the young boy, and in a fatherly, pastoral way (puts hand on his shoulder, speaks in a gentle manner), helps in questioning him about the ghost, etc... "Do you remember where exactly you saw her? What time was it, how did she act towards you, what did she look like and how did you feel during it?"
Wynum Monday June 14th, 2010 12:26:15 PM
...crafting....
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Monday June 14th, 2010 4:29:36 PM
"My one concern," Revi states matter of factly, "is will Guud be able to protect these items until the auction?"
Edmund Monday June 14th, 2010 8:39:16 PM
Edmund is a bit puzzled--and clearly irritated--when the debates are called off.
"This is a grave disservice to the constitutents of these boroughs," he declares forbodingly. "How can there be faith in the open exchange of ideas when debate on the issues is not taking place!?"
He continues like this if there is anyone around who shows even the slightest sign of paying attention to him, and will do his level best to carry on like this to any listeners until they are sufficiently bored.
"Very well," he says eventually. "Let's hurry up and finish our business with the Mithril Order's newest and smelliest friend. I bet there's no ghost at all, just people getting liquored up and bumping into that crazy old bat in the middle of the night. That would be enough to give anyone a shock!"
Naturally, he has the good sense to keep these comments between himself and the other members of the Order. In public, he is all smiles and generosity about the plight of the downtrodden poor.
[link="http://tinyurl.com/lcjmmr"]Wynum[/link] Monday June 14th, 2010 10:40:27 PM
(Fixing header link)
Wynum Monday June 14th, 2010 10:41:36 PM
(Fixing the fix)
What are you saying? / DM Buzz d20+5=19 ; Tuesday June 15th, 2010 1:28:05 AM
When Arm mentions the auction goods, Revi voices her concerns that all the items gathered would be unsafe in such slums. Yet, Sampson smiles,"The auction should be held in my tavern, in the trade quarter, for the best results. We can store the items in my basement where there is plenty of room before the auction." Easing the mind of the Mithril Order somewhat of looting of their hard work.
Trixie, in perhaps her gnomish fashion, wants descriptions of the woman and her jewelry, if that is possible. He just stares at her through blood shot eyes and through parched lips replies, "Ghasts in the dark, I barely noticed her. You expect me to ask her name and such?" He rubs his face as though, if he were not talking to heros of the city, he would no longer be answering questions. Clearly, his mind being in a fog of dementia, at the time, might help him against such mind numbing effects such as fear.
Thar asks for specifics and the young man points, clearly not wanting to travel more then he has to. "Right there, where the steps for the sewer managers steps into the foul brink.' Yet, the coin from another encourages him to take the group to a similar spot that Sampson has pointed out.
Edmund forgets that Sampson is a member of the party right now. He owns a bar and has keen ears for the innocuous speech of taverns and people. Being a tour guide means being near and around the group. His face looks down cast and a bit dejected as others ask the veracity of his tale and perhaps even his courage. But it is clear, even he questions his own courage at this time and he does not say a word when others are asked of their experience. He remains silent when the down trodden are mentioned with disrespect for their situations, after all, his business depends on making the unhappy, happy again.
Meanwhile, back at the manor, Wynum works hard on future assets to the group. He manages to make one arrow at a time so that, if they are needed, the equipment is available.
The group discovers, in their information gathering, the candidates will again, hold their last debate, tomorrow. The place will be set this evening, after precautions are set up against future intrusions and the militia will have well placed guards in key positions. It is clear, all the candidates, well, the two, have concerns for the welfare of either themselves or the other.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday June 15th, 2010 5:44:06 AM
Seeing that they'll be getting nothing further from the young man, Arm bids him farewell and turns to the rest, saying "I think we should head back to the Manor and either get some rest or make whatever preparations need to be made before we return here this evening. Hopefully we'll be finished with this business in time to attend the final debate tomorrow.".
Thar Tuesday June 15th, 2010 9:13:22 AM
Thar thanks the man too and gives him a coin for his troubles. "Sounds good Arm. I'll make sure I have some spells memorized that work against undead. I'm looking forward to the final debate too and maybe we can get some more donations while we're there? Either way, I'm ready to see how the vote ends up and hopefully there will be some peace now in the city..."
He turns and waits for the rest of the group to decide whether it's time to depart...
Trixy Tuesday June 15th, 2010 11:13:25 AM
Trixy frowns, wishing the man were more help. She makes a mental note to observe any jewelery, not for greed, but practicality. The locate object spell would be useful if they go body hunting, to ease this spirit.
Trixy tells Edmund as much, then adds..
" Ed, I haven't dealt much with *hopefully* non aggressive undead. Well, any undead other than those summoned or raised by the necromancers in the star Mage guild. What should I expect? Anything in particular you think I should prepare?"
She takes a moment to peek in on Dace and bandit, and finds Dace has gotten quite smaller since their arrival.
"Hrm. He mustve been sharing food with Revis wolf. "
She then skips downstairs with Bandit chittering in her ear, pondering her spell selection for the evening.
Edmund Tuesday June 15th, 2010 11:43:29 AM
Edmund consults with the gnome, still not quite certain that she is not a soulless automaton.
"Undead," he begins, "We have fought many undead. Why, it was not so long ago that we took down an ArchLich! There were mummies and skeletons, as well. Quite terrifying, all of it. Blood rituals and what have you--naturally, I saved the day with my magic, as usual."
"Oh, right, what to expect? Except filthy, awful, disgusting things: animated corpses in varying states of decay. Expect the smell of rotting bodies, of maggot-ridden flesh, of bones, organs, and clothing well on the way to returning to the dust whence it came, expect unbelieveably horrible sights and smells and sounds. When a zombie lurches forward, haltingly, and coughs some of its own entrails through the rotting oriface which used to be called a mouth, do your best not to scream, or throw up, or soil your gnomish pants."
"Now," Edmund says with a grin, "I think it's time for breakfast. Will you join me? I have some orange scones."
Wynum Tuesday June 15th, 2010 12:42:49 PM
"I have a weird feeling about this." says the Centaur as he makes room around the table "Remember when we first met? You came from tha vampire lair. We planned on fighting ghullies, and leeches, if I'm correct, but not archleeches, though. In the end we faced the shapechangers. So this time might be the one. And I will be ready. Look, I have prepared arrows that can harm them. They're coated with the urine of a ghost hound. Look! Also, this potion which protects against surnatural fear. I don't remember buying though. I hope it's still good."
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Tuesday June 15th, 2010 2:37:11 PM
Revi thanks Samson for his help and endeavors to reassure him that the Order will look into the Case of the Wandering Ghost, then suggests he go back to his inn and take care of business as the Order is done here presently.
"Ah, breakfast, I could use a little bit more, those lizards on a stick so early in the morning weren't that filling. Are scones filling Eddie, do they have meat in them?"
Another visitor / DM Buzz Tuesday June 15th, 2010 9:23:58 PM
ooc: Everyone has posted, so getting it in early.
Arm suggests returning to the manor and preparing for when Thermo again hides itself.
Thar thinks of the needy as it is heard the debate will continue again the next day, happy to collect even more items for Sampson to store.
Trixie makes plans to witness the apparition and note anything considered a valuable article. She asks those more knowledgeable then herself about undead.
Edmund goes into deep and elaborate detail on the undead creatures and how they can gross people out, if they don't kill you first.
Revi helps the ogre feel a bit better. Not something she is used to. Then speaks of a hardy breakfast involving pastries.
The group returns to the manor and find Wynum hard at work on articles of destruction. He too reminisces of past exploits. Arrows made with uncommon materials are ready to be used when needed.
It is a lazy day for the most part. Again no blood is shed, but the nice walk around the city has it's good points. A bit more information about the ghost of the north east side and a sunny day out side with fresh air and the bustle of the city put people in a good mood.
The citizens of Plateau City are still wearing their arm bands in support of their favorite politician and on more then one occasion, the group is offered spares, given out by those some attempting to make a little extra money on the cloth. "Arm bands for Sturtevant a nice bright blue or for Caal a nice bright orange. A mere two silver pieces each. Show your support!"
Will the group pick a candidate or will they remain neutral on the matter? Time is running short for a decision and the heros are just as likely to be effected by either of them, so some support, shown or not, should be decided.
Just before night fall, there is again, someone at the door, but this time. The knock is measured and soft. At the door is a beautiful red headed elf and she introduces herself as Mistress Myene Shimmerdance. She wears very expensive and likely magical robes and tucked into her belt is a rod of fine quality.
"Greetings. I spoke with Lord Thar just a few days ago and I found a book that might interest him. As well, I have heard of the good deeds you are doing for the poor souls of the Shanty Quarter and, well, I thought I would make a donation also." She pulls the rod out of her belt and hands it to Thar, "It is only a lesser rod of extension. I haven't used it in years. Please put it into the auction for me." Then, from the depths of a deep pouch, she pulls out a sack. I would also like to give this to your group. It is a bunch of potions I have no use for, since I no longer adventure. I am hoping you all can use it on any mission you might have." Lastly, she pulls out a book and hands it to Thar. "I found this in the library and decided, you might be interested in it." She bows to the heros and almost trips as she steps down from the door way and hurries off in a nervous manner.
The title of the book reads, "Metamagic and you".
ooc: The sack holds the package of potions given to you by Jerry. Divide them up as you like, I just want to know who is holding which one.
5 serious healing potions
1 potion of enlarge person
1 potion of levitate
1 potion of gaseous form
1 potion of invisibility
Large Potion Sack
2 more serious healing potions
1 potion of spider climb
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Tuesday June 15th, 2010 9:34:25 PM
"Hmm, those are some serious potions there..." Revi chuckled at her stupid joke and then asked, so is it about time to go out and check out this ghost?"
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Wednesday June 16th, 2010 6:06:41 AM
Arm looks over the array of newly-acquired potions (OOC: I'm assuming they're all labeled in some manner so that we don't need to identify them?) and says, "As long as no one objects, I think I shall like to have one cure serious potion and the gaseous form potion.".
Thar Wednesday June 16th, 2010 8:30:58 AM
Thar thanks the woman for the rod and book, and says, ]"Thank you madam for your generosity. I will put these to good use and will see that evil is destroyed."
Also, he says to the party, "Well, let's pick a side and vote for someone. We could use someone's good graces..."
He'll look at the book and while they are resting and waiting to go see the ghost, he'll read through its pages and examine.
(OOC - I'm not sure what the book does so I'll examine it closely...)
For safety sake, he'll take one potion of serious healing in case someone needs one in the future.
Trixy Wednesday June 16th, 2010 8:31:41 AM
(( DM. I had posted once before on inquiring about the Star Mage guilds preferred candidate. Was there any sortve answer there? ))
DM Buzz: I apologize. No, the members of the Star Mages Guild are just as divided as everyone else. They want one or the other for their own personal reasons.
Wynum Wednesday June 16th, 2010 11:12:11 AM
"This is a sign, for sure. That our mission is noble. Or that we'll receive a lot of punishment. But from a ghost?"
Wynum's preparation should be finished even before sundown, as it was begun early in the morning. I would guess the plan is to leave during the night?
{OOC: Easiest would be one CSW potion each, including one on hold for a future seventh player? Enlarge: should probably go to Revi/Arm/Thar for melee reach? Spider climb: somebody with no decent climb score?}
Thar Wednesday June 16th, 2010 1:11:34 PM
(Thar uses his bows so Enlarge wouldn't be of much use to him... Thanks for the thought anyway...)
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Wednesday June 16th, 2010 4:26:33 PM
Revi eyes the potions and although she never had much use for them, she plucks out a Cure Serious and the Enlarge potion, "This enlarge will increase not only my size but the amount of damage I can do. So if no one minds, I'll take it."
Edmund Wednesday June 16th, 2010 8:50:11 PM
Edmund takes one of the Serious healing potions, and pops it into his haversack.
"Can never be too careful, I suppose," he says. "Probably doesn't taste like much, though!"
* * *
When Myene arrives, Edmund watches from his chair in the common room, and remains silent for the entire duration of her conversation with Thar. When she departs, the Wizard leaps to his feet and hurries to the door to watch her disappear into the distance.
"I say..." he says, before regaining his composure.
After clearing his throat and eyeing the Metamagic and You book, Edmund declares haughtily, "Never much cared for such tactics. All a bit airy-fairy. Better to keep things nice and simple--straightforward, if you will."
But he departs from the door slowly, and returns to his chair to sit, silent and thoughtful.
* * *
When presented the opportunity to support the candidates, Edmund refuses outright.
"We don't choose sides. The people make their choice, and we support them. That's all there is to it. Now, about that ghost. When shall we depart?"
Edmund Wednesday June 16th, 2010 9:00:18 PM
((OOC: Header updated to the updated character sheet.
Question for the DM: Will there be a return to the debates after a period of calm, or are the candidates completely done so that all that remains is the election? I assumed the former, but would appreciate the clarification.))
Trixy Wednesday June 16th, 2010 9:42:11 PM
Trixy takes one of the cure serious potions for herself, then timidly takes a spider climb potion as well. If anyone looks at her funny, she replies.
" I'm 3 feet tall and have a hard time reaching the bottom of my chair at supper. If I ever need to climb something, this might help."
Other than that, she is unusally somber and straightforward, working hard on deciding her spells. When the time to move out comes, she is fairly confident in her decisions, and shares them with Edmund for his perusal. She also shares them with Thar, so he can select more spells of clericy doom rather than burden himself with supportive magic.
"So everyone knows.. I've prepared a few extra shield spells. It will help against incorporeal attacks, unlike your normal shields. Let me know if you need one before we arrive tonight."
0 level: Detect Magic 1, Read Magic 1, Disrupt Undead 2 1 level: Detect Undead, Mage Armor, Shield x3 2 level: Command Undead x2, Spectral Hand x2 3 level: Magic Circle vs Evil, Dispel Magic, Summon Monster III
ooc / DM Buzz Thursday June 17th, 2010 12:33:45 AM
Not feeling to well tonight. I will get up early in the morning and get you all a post.
Thank you for your patience.
:)
Don't complain if you don't vote! / DM Buzz Thursday June 17th, 2010 8:54:01 AM
The potions received from the Meta Magic Mistress are most welcome, as is the magical item, which easily puts the grand total of goods over the ten thousand gold pieces needed to initiate the construction of the much needed sewer addition.
Revi is in a hurry to go ghost hunting, while Arm can see, the potions are indeed labeled and ready for use. Thar believes the group as a whole, should choose a side while Edmund completely disagrees and believes the heroes should remain neutral and support whomever the rest of the city decides. Wynum believes the group has been sent some omen as he cleans up his work area in anticipation of searching for the immaterial creature. Trixie plans ahead and has spells that will help the group for the evening.
The book does appear a novel on the various types of Meta Magic feats available and how an experienced spell caster can achieve such abilities. The book is mundane, but it could be, perhaps, the mistress was looking for a reason to see an elven hero, again?
The potions are divided up and hopefully added to any inventory list the party members may carry. As well, there is some dissent in the ranks. What will the party do? Will they ignore the very public election all together, letting all the other citizens decide their fate or will they take a proactive approach to lead the citizens into the future? The Mithril Order will only have one chance at deciding, if a king will take the place of the council. The Castle Quarter has not had a permanent occupant, since the death of King Claudia, may he rest in peace.
There is one more debate left for tomorrow and the election will be held in a week.
Wynum Thursday June 17th, 2010 11:00:59 AM
"Here we still have one cure potion to keep in store, and this potion of invisibility and that of levitation. Maybe the mages can take them and either use them to free up their other spells or distribute them?"
"That election is just puzzling for me. I must say I was too young for those matters in the Isles. It seems risky to me. Who's going to vote? Are we citizens of this town? I have been here... let's see... maybe two months. And if the candidate we choose doesn't get elected, will we stop helping the city? I haven't heard their stance on quadrupeds. Food for thought. By the way, did you eat all the scones? We got to get them bigger."
{OOC: the Levitate spell's desc is not 100% clear. Does the weight limit apply to the creature quaffing it, or only to levitated objects?}
Trixy Thursday June 17th, 2010 12:48:06 PM
Trixy states her opinion, eyeing Edmund warily.
" I won't be voting as the Mithril Order, bit as Trixy, you can bet your ridiculous underpants that I'll be voting against a single king. It's unknown if he will keep a counsel, but they don't matter a lick without authority. I have lived here my whole life and you can bet I'll be there voting for our incumbent!"
She settles back down with her notepad, frowning as she tries to finish her sketch of Edmund and Revi, mounted upon a giant Arashi, riding off into the sunset. Edmund is wearing ceremonial platemail, while Revi is wearing her sheer undies she likes to prance about in.
Unhappy with it, she rips the page out and sets down her pad, then heads upstairs to check on Dace and Bandit.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Thursday June 17th, 2010 3:01:20 PM
"You do know the incumbent is Studevant, Trixy, right? And if he wins, he becomes king."
Trixy Thursday June 17th, 2010 7:38:57 PM
( Apparently I misunderstood. I thought it was a current councilman running against a noble who if elected becomes king. )
Thar Thursday June 17th, 2010 8:02:15 PM
Thar looks through the books and says with an smile, "You know, I think once this is done, I need to make an appointment with a lovely lady at the mage's guild. I've wanted to learn more about buffing up some of my summoning spells and this book talks a lot about it..."
LOoking up from his book, he listens to everyone's comments and says, "I too think that a single king may have too much power. That said, not everyone is meant to rule and I prefer a noble over mere politicians. Running a city with a council may sound nice for a start, but it all depends on who the various citizens are... If I have to choose, I'd vote for the noble..."
ooc! / DM Buzz Friday June 18th, 2010 2:53:12 AM
Four of six? And here I am bragging about your attendance in the DM board and now I am missing two peoples post?
:)
Decisions, decisions / DM Buzz Friday June 18th, 2010 3:05:03 AM
The group talks first of debates and elections and beautiful elven women. Yet, no one has decided if the group is in agreement, totally, having known now that some are against a one ruler system. Many people, from all over the kingdom are coming to the city to hear the debates and cast their ballots. If you live near by or in the area, you are a citizen. Many cities nearby are effected and thus accepted as a part of the realm. In fact, if not living in a different area of the Woldian map, you are almost expected to participate in the decision!
Perhaps this should be worked out before the group goes ghost hunting, or does it really matter, since the real election is still a week away?
This barely worthy narrator can not tell the heros what to do. It is them that lead the story and in any direction they desire it to go, for better or worse of the Wold. The fate of an entire planet may be in their hands?
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Friday June 18th, 2010 4:07:13 AM
"Well the debate isn't until tomorrow," Revi says whilst getting armed once more, "So lets go check out the ghost woman now while it's dark, but not too dark." (I'm assuming it's evening now?)
Revi heads for the door, but waits for the others to join her.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Friday June 18th, 2010 6:17:08 AM
Arm agrees, still a bit paranoid about making "Wold-changing" decisions because of the fiasco that happened the last time, "Yes, let us tend to this current problem first and worry about the candidates later.". To Trixy, he says "That is very nice of you to offer, my dear. If you wouldn't mind casting one of your shield spells on me as we approach the area, I would greatly appreciate it!".
OOC: Sorry for the missed post yesterday...I had a really bad earache that came from impacted ear wax...I'm doing better today.. :)
Thar Friday June 18th, 2010 9:05:27 AM
Thar agrees with Arm and Revi's decision to worry about the ghost now and deal with the election later... "I'm not comfortable with some ghost going around free, and we don't know her true motives... While I agree that the election may have a huge impact, my big concern is the people's safety around this ghost. And I personally hate undead and they are something that must be stamped out wherever found..."
He joins the rest in heading to the ghost's area once night arrives...
Wynum Friday June 18th, 2010 1:14:06 PM
As Wynum joins the party headed for the river banks, he actually starts to get a heading on the political issue. "Well, a council would allow better participation for the elves. That would be a good thing. Well, unless there's many shapechangers in that council."
{OOC: If nobody takes them, I will write the three remaining potions as a note on my CS for a future party member?}
Edmund Friday June 18th, 2010 2:26:23 PM
((OOC: Sorry about the missed post yesterday. I had people coming in from out-of-state to stay the weekend and simply forgot.))
Edmund glances up when Thar talks about going to the Mages guild to meet ladies, and frowns a bit.
"This is not the time to be making plans for amorous adventures!" he says irritably. "We should be focused on ghost-busting!"
The half-elf also agrees with the general consensus on putting poltergeists before politicos.
"If we don't make the city safe for the debate and the election, there might not be a debate and an election. Seems clear enough to me! We can discuss the niceties of our political differences after we've ensured there will be a venue in which to express them."
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 98/98 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Saturday June 19th, 2010 4:45:19 PM
"It just occurred to me, if we get this ghost business finished early enough, maybe would should scout out the area of the debate, just to make sure no one's trying to cause foul play there. In the dark of night, an assassin might want to find their hiding place before anyone shows up for the debate."
PTB decision / DM Buzz Sunday June 20th, 2010 7:47:11 PM
If you have a druid or a ranger with an animal companion, please go to the rules board. The PTB have decided on the matter and you can make appropriate adjustments according to that ruling.
Thank you.
The potion discrepancy will be addressed in tonight's/tomorrow's post.
Potions / DM Buzz Monday June 21st, 2010 12:20:13 AM
My apologies on the potion misunderstanding.
According to Jerry's email, you receive only...
3 critical healing potions 1 potion of levitate 1 potion of gaseous form 1 potion of invisibility
Large Potion Sack
1 more critical healing potions 1 potion of spider climb
As for the levitate potion, I would like to say it does not include the one using the potion, but after reading it a few times, I have to say, it can only levitate up to 300 pounds, as a wizard, including the user. Feel free to take this to the rules board if you disagree. rarely are my rules set in stone.
DM post / DM Buzz Monday June 21st, 2010 12:34:20 AM
Working on post, but won't be available until the morning
Taking a walk / DM Buzz Monday June 21st, 2010 9:24:20 AM
The group goes for a walk in the early evening. From what they remember, all the people that have seen her spoke of it being very late in the evening or early in the morning, so what will the group do until the early hours of the next day occur?
Ahhh, they first go to investigate the Gladiator Park Quarter, the largest venue for people to see the two candidates battle verbally for the last time. They get there in time to see a large group of militia guarding the quarter.
At the gate leading into the quarter, you find Constable Gormley standing watch himself with ten other guards. The elf has on elven chain mail and a buckler. He also carries a halberd, very effective for tripping opponents and a buckler for a little bit of protection. When the group approches he hails you all before noticing who you are, "Well met Mithril Order. My, your numbers change often it seems, like the bumps on the back of a half orcs head at Sampsons." he says smiling, thinking fondly of the ogre keeping order in his own establishment. "Have you come to place questions for the candidates? If so, write them down and place them in that box over there. As much as I trust you all though, we can't allow non militia into the quarter at this time. Feel free to come back bright and early though. Rabbitsfoot and I will allow city heros to take up key positions at that time, if you want to help us keep order."
Gormley doesn't chase the group off, actually enjoying the company of elves, half elves, druids, gnomes and even taurs. No prejudice at all, having to deal with all types of people in his position/ However, the time moves on and perhaps the group would want to have a drink at Sampsons to kill a bit more time, or they can head to the site and wait a few hours, maybe getting a feel for those that wander at night, in that area?
Wynum Monday June 21st, 2010 10:00:43 AM
"Well friends we don't know exactly when the creature will show up. We'd better keep an eye on the area, and check if anything odd is happening to trigger the apparition. If some want to sleep, we might setup a rotation."
Wynum reasons that an apparition must be linked to some unfortunate events. He therefore wanders about, taking note of the outlook of the surroundings.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 106/106 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Monday June 21st, 2010 1:30:00 PM "I concur with our esteemed friend here, let's scout the place out, you never know what you may find." Revi will take 1 crit healing potion
Thar Monday June 21st, 2010 3:28:49 PM
Thar considers Gormley's offer, and says, "Yes, I would be willing to help keep order. I don't have any questions per se, but am curious to see how the debate works itself out. Also, since this is the final debate, it is an opportune time to cause havoc and influence the elections. We have an issue we're dealing with tonight, and coming back in the morning to help with the debate sounds right to me..."
He raises his suggestion for consideration by the rest of the MO and asks them if they want to proceed that way...
(OOC - DM Buzz - am I reading this right? It is early evening, and the woman is usually seen very late pm or early am. Then, the debate is tomorrow morning, when we can come back to help keep order?)
DM Buzz: Correct. You guys will be getting very little sleep this evening if you look for the ghost, then go to the debate. Going back to the manor and resting until the late night will keep the group from becoming fatigued, since you all have been up since very early in the day.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 106/106 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Monday June 21st, 2010 5:04:52 PM
"On second thought, lets go back to the manor, rest and then come look for the ghost."
Edmund Monday June 21st, 2010 9:15:39 PM
Edmund agrees with Thar and Revi.
"Agreed. A little bit of a kip would be just the thing before we go a'ghosting. Hopefully it won't keep us out too late. The better we catch the pranksters, the sooner! ...Er, reverse that."
Trixy Monday June 21st, 2010 9:52:35 PM
Trixy follows along, glad for the extra time to prepare... not to mention the last time she was out late her night ended with a blackout and a questionable relationship with a dwarf who called himself Goliath.
That there was a temporary tattoo bearing his namesake was even more disturbing.
ooc / DM Buzz Monday June 21st, 2010 11:42:44 PM
Very long days lately. Which is not a bad thing. That means I can pay my bills.
I will get up early again for another post. Sorry for the inconvience. If this continues, i will be switching my DM time to mornings.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday June 22nd, 2010 6:04:33 AM
Arm goes along with the rest, "I agree that we should rest up, but I think we need to make a point to get back to our search area before it gets dark....I don't want ANY surprises this evening...well, as little amount of surprises as possible.".
Thar Tuesday June 22nd, 2010 9:20:32 AM
Thar starts to yawn and says, "I need a nap before tonight's fun starts. I'm not in the mood to work on no sleep and I want to be fresh for whatever problems come our way..."
He joins the group in returning to the manor, momentarily looks towards Ruby's old room, has a sad expression on his face and stands in the hall for a moment. However, he remembers a cute wizard that brought him some books and that brightens his spirits a bit...
Wynum Tuesday June 22nd, 2010 9:57:31 AM
"Well if you need to get your spells back, it is better indeed. I just hope we're not making the wrong move."
{OOC: If Arm takes the Gaseous, Trixy the Spider Climb, Revi one cure, that leaves us with 3 cures, invis and levitation.}
{OOC: I don't see the point in being fresh and rested before... a debate, while risking missing cues, but I don't want to split up so.. let's sleep...}
A power nap / DM Buzz Tuesday June 22nd, 2010 10:39:18 AM
The group gets back after dark, but it gives them enough time to rest before their mid-night adventure. Spells can no be regained however, as the sleep pattern is out of the norm and spells for the day already prepared.
Thoughts of times past catch up to some in the group and one of the Mithril Order has been gone for several days, giving another time to think and ponder their future.
Marie has left a letter for the groups bard at the door. In a feminine hand writing, written on the front is Arm.. Highlight to display spoiler: {I haven't seen you in days. Please come and visit me when you have time from saving the Wold.}
With time well spent resting, in a big city like this, there are still people out in the street, minding their own business, when the group sets out again for their rendezvous. They make their way back to the river walk without incident. People seem to be hanging around the area that Sampson and the young drunk mentioned, that was where they saw the ghost. The little old and crazy homeless lady does not appear to be around, but when the group notices the heros of the city, they begin to disperse with one younger woman walking up to you all, "You are not here to kill the ghost are ye? I haven't received me blessings yet!"
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 106/106 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Tuesday June 22nd, 2010 12:25:57 PM
Revi envisioned using her hand like a meat cleaver and bringing it down on the questioning young woman while yelling, Hasan Chop! But thought the better of it and instead ignored the girl.
Trixy frowns up at the woman, then pokes her kneecap to catch her attention.
"Everyone keeps assuming were just going to blast-kill-maim this thing. If it's good natured, we will show it the same reception in kind. Some things in the Wold are just odd and it's not our place to dictate how things should be."
"If it's hostile however, Edmund will trap it's soul in magically prepared olive loaf and eat it between sliced bread before the rest of us can even blink!"
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 106/106 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Tuesday June 22nd, 2010 5:58:20 PM
"Olive loaf, mmm."
Edmund d20+15=25 ; Tuesday June 22nd, 2010 6:27:30 PM
Edmund hurriedly pushes the Gnomish lunatic aside, shaking his head as he does so, earnestly addressing the young woman.
"My apologies, dear girl," he says with a generous wave of his arm. "You know how Gnomes can be. I am Edmund, Archmage and Wizard Extraordinaire, Leader of the Mithril Order, Saviour of Plateau City, Hero of the Wold, and Man of Letters, et cetera. You clearly know something of this 'ghost'--you have come to earn its blessing, yes? Won't you tell us anything you may have heard about it, and also, why you are in need of its blessing? We are merely investigating at the moment. I doubt any 'killing' will be necessary."
(Diplomacy=25)
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 106/106 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Tuesday June 22nd, 2010 7:52:14 PM
"Leader? you're the leader of the Order? Dang, good job Eddie, good for you!" Revi slaps the mage on the shoulder, but not too hard--he is fragile after all.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Wednesday June 23rd, 2010 6:12:56 AM
Arm is about to answer the young woman's question when Ed butts in. Growling silently, he contemplates killing, all right...though it may be a party member and not a ghost.
Thar Wednesday June 23rd, 2010 9:33:46 AM
Thar grumbles as the sound of bread reminds him that its time for a late snack. He takes a quick bite of some trail rations but no way would he ever eat olive loaf....
He listens to Edmund's apology to her and waits to see if the young woman has any clues about the ghost and where it might appear...
Party politics / DM Buzz Wednesday June 23rd, 2010 10:15:28 AM
The group is kind of at odds with each other as talk of olive loaf seems to seep into the conversation with the woman in shabby clothes, is had. The woman steps away slightly when the gnome touches her leg and all but runs away until Edmund steps up to calm her nerves by taking command of the Mithril Order at the dismay of most of the others.
"Nay, I nay seen the lady, but I here she has a beautiful countenance and pretty as a rainbow in the sky."
When asked about why she would need a blessing, she looks down, "Me husband left me for nay making him a baby and it not be good to da next one, if ever I will have one, if I can na provide them a baby eider, I will be left in the street beggin for food."
Her face is sad as she clearly believes the ghost can help her. Yet, she is brave enough to face a group of armed adventurers to defend her, in her opinion, only hope of obtaining a happy man.
Edmund Wednesday June 23rd, 2010 11:02:01 AM
Edmund raises his eyebrows at the mention of husbands and children, and glances to Thar.
"Perhaps there is something you might be able to say to this woman to comfort her?" he suggests. It is clear the Wizard has little knowledge (or probably none at all) of such matters, though he'd be loathe to admit it.
To the distraught woman, he replies, "My good lady, if there is aught we can do for your good and the good of the rest of the citizens of this magnificent city, you can be certain we will do so. Return to your home and allow us to complete our investigation. If this ghost is truly bestowing blessings and good fortune upon people, we would be the last to interfere in any way."
Mentally, he takes note of the fact that the ghost is described as beautiful and pretty, as this doesn't fit in with most of the descriptions he has heard of such things.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 106/106 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Wednesday June 23rd, 2010 11:21:07 AM
"Maybe it wasn't you," Revi remarks to the woman, "maybe your man was at fault in this case."
Wynum Wednesday June 23rd, 2010 12:43:33 PM
"Mmm. Why is that woman trying to breed with a ghost? A female ghost, at that! Maybe it is, in fact, a male. And not a ghost. Good thing we came here early."
That said, he scans the surroundings for any corporeal male who would appear to be in a breeding mood, as determined by the typical Centaur signs, and is promptly disappointed.
"Maybe this mob is hiding the culprit. Let's keep a watchful eye!"
Using his vantage position above most of the crowd, he surveys the mob's reaction.
Wynum Wednesday June 23rd, 2010 3:25:42 PM
{OOC: Re: Potions, I don't want to confuse things even more, but there is no such thing as a Cure Critical Wounds potion, being a 4th level spell...}
Trixy looks at the woman, strangely moved by her plight. Perhaps the average person wasn't aware of it, but the desire for sons to carry on a sire's name is a primal urge dating as far back as nature has existed, allowing for one creature to pass on it's line and flame to a new generation.
Furiously scrambling for something to contribute, she blurts out..
"Keep trying! If a man gets bored in the mean time, I know this dwarf named Goliath. I know you arent a dwarf but I doubt he discriminates!"
Figuring the problem is likely solved, the agrees with Edmund.
"At any rate, there's little you can say to us that will make us any less intent on a fight then we already are. Like Lord Edmund up there said.. if this is a nice apparation, it will be around as long as it wants to be, minus any overzealous dwarven exorcisms courtesy of Thar over there."
Quite unsure of what else to do, Trixy holds her breath, curious if her face will turn as pink as her hair.
Edmund Wednesday June 23rd, 2010 9:54:05 PM
Edmund somehow resists the compelling urge to bury his face in his hands.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Thursday June 24th, 2010 5:58:50 AM
Once the woman is gone, Arm makes sure she is out of earshot, then says to Thar, "Is it possible for a ghost to charm someone? I myself have never heard of it, but it would explain why some people are so enamored of it, while others find it frightening and threatening...".
Thar d20+8=22 ; Thursday June 24th, 2010 4:41:31 PM
Thar does his best to comfort the woman and soothe her concerns in a pastoral way. "Ma'am, we have a soup and clothing ministry at my temple where we serve homeless and needy people. They can take care of your immediate needs, and then connect you with people who can help."
He gives her brief directions, then adds in a serious tone, " I'm not happy with what you're husband is telling you and that is no reason to throw you out. If needed, I can have a man to man talk with him about your problem. Then, if he decides to try to throw you out, he'll have to answer to me. And trust me, he doesn't want that. My name is Thar ail Baerer and tell him if he has questions about how to treat you, he can come and find me at the temple."
To Arm, he thinks for a moment and tries to recall if he's ever heard of such a ghost that could charm someone (know religion? = 22)
Trixy finally gives up, releasing her breath and inhaling loudly. Tired of waiting around, she approaches the others.
"Look, if we address every person concerned with how we are going to treat the apparition in question we wont get anywhere. Has anyone else got any divination that might lead us the right direction? I'll get us started, since there's no creepy looking haunted mansions with bats flying around them as far as I can tell."
Kneeling Down, Trixy pulls her dagger and makes a small cut on her thumb. She makes a couple quick symbols on the ground, and a puff of smoke later, a white owl is flapping in the air in front of her.
She then calls down Dace from his customary lazy circling above her. She stands before her akwardly attentive audience and relays her wishes.
"Dace, look for anything not right. A group of people gathered by something.. unatural. You have a natural aversion to undead, so if you sense something otherworldy, come back this way."
To the Owl, she says...
"You do the same. If you find something, come back this way. Now both of you, go."
Finally, she pulls a bit of earth from her spell component pouch and rubs it underneath her eyes. A few potent symbols and arcane gestures later, her eyes glow with a faint blue hue. She begins to slowly spin in a circle, checking a 60 foot radius for any signs of undead. If none, she continues down the walk where the apparition has been occuring, continuously scanning for emanating aura's of undead.
Detect Undead: 9 minutes Remaining.
----------------------- Level: Clr 1, Pal 1, Sor/Wiz 1 Components: V, S, M/DF Casting Time: 1 standard action Range: 60 ft. Area: Cone-shaped emanation Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute/ level (D) Saving Throw: None Spell Resistance: No
You can detect the aura that surrounds undead creatures. The amount of information revealed depends on how long you study a particular area.
1st Round Presence or absence of undead auras.
2nd Round Number of undead auras in the area and the strength of the strongest undead aura present. If you are of good alignment, and the strongest undead aura's strength is overwhelming (see below), and the creature has HD of at least twice your character level, you are stunned for 1 round and the spell ends.
3rd Round The strength and location of each undead aura. If an aura is outside your line of sight, then you discern its direction but not its exact location.
Aura Strength The strength of an undead aura is determined by the HD of the undead creature, as given on the following table:
0 level: Detect Magic 1, Read Magic 1, Disrupt Undead 2 1 level: Detect Undead, Mage Armor, Shield x3 2 level: Command Undead x2, Spectral Hand x2 3 level: Magic Circle vs Evil, Dispel Magic, Summon Monster III
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Friday June 25th, 2010 5:39:48 AM
Seeing Trixy go about her machinations, Arm approaches her when she has a spare moment and says, "When you can, you may cast the shield spell on me that we spoke of earlier, my dear...thank you!".
Party politics / DM Buzz Friday June 25th, 2010 11:19:20 AM
DM post will come later today.
Wynum Friday June 25th, 2010 2:50:57 PM
Wynum wears his Horseshoes of a Zephyr. A process which he performs in a backalley. When he comes back, his elven composture is greater than usual as he floats arrogantly a few inches above the ground. And smugly, too.
{OOC: Because it is not clear how it is done for centaurs...}
Rest assured / DM Buzz Friday June 25th, 2010 9:25:24 PM
The group does much to ease the pain in the woman's soul. Edmund assures the woman, they are there only to help the city and if this ghost is benign, it too is a part of it, until it becomes a threat at least, then it must be dealt with properly.
Wynum seems to completely misunderstand the conversation of the ghost and the woman, but the unclean female doesn't dare attempt to explain. Looking hopeful at the rugged and sexy Revi she smiles a bit and answers some questions, "Me no know who's fault it be, but me husband has gone already and me parents are old. I am da last of seven childrens and now me back at home wid dem. Don matter if'n it him or me, a blessing of Flower wud go a long way, but heors be doin what dey want to do and no unclean peasant like meself can stop ye properly. Me supposin you know what be right for da city anyway." To Thar she smiles a little bit more, "Tank ye much for the advice and directions to da temple. It might be nice ta get some fath back in me life."
She walks away from the others and they ponder the reactions from the others. Is it possible a ghost could also be a spell caster? Well, from the many stories told in the Dragon Quarter, anything is really possible. Flying pigs and elephants have been seen. Good liches have ben talked to. The only thing for certain is, no one has ever met a good demon or devil, yet, but the group hasn't seen it all and perhaps if a devil put on a cursed helm of opposite alignment, even that is possible.
While Trixie is casting spells on Arm and the others, Wynum sets to putting on his own horse shoes, which is likely no easy feat (no pun intended) while putting on his rear hooves, but with a little help from the others, possible.
ooc: I'm not sure about the horseshoes either, so let us say you did it this time and I will ask in the rules board about it. I might need some kind of skill check in the future, just so it is done properly and it isn't thrown while being used. A Survival skill or something, but again, I will ask. Also, I will be getting an email out to Florian Saturday or Sunday and my last DM post for this scene will be Monday. I will be watching what is happening and unless I lose total computer access, I will be back in a week from Tuesday. Have a great weekend all and that you for the understanding.
Trixy Friday June 25th, 2010 11:29:10 PM
( Results of the detect undead and animals searching?)
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 106/106 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Saturday June 26th, 2010 3:57:56 AM
"I guess there's not much else we can do but wait."
Wynum Sunday June 27th, 2010 5:31:54 PM
Still watching.
{OOC: Jerry said that the Cure Critical Wounds Potion should be morphed into either Cure Serious Wounds Potions OR (our choice for each) Cure Critical Scrolls. So everybody who want a CS potion, hands up (Wynum will take one as he can quickly reach downed PCs), the rest would go to Thar and Trixy as scrolls? We still have a potion of levitate (someone with a poor Climb?) and one invisibility (Thar or Arm for casting defensive/buff spells?)}
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 106/106 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Sunday June 27th, 2010 7:32:06 PM
Revi can't cast CCW's yet, so she'll have to take a CSW potion.
Rest assured / DM Buzz Monday June 28th, 2010 11:27:08 AM
DM post and start of new scene tonight.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Monday June 28th, 2010 11:48:19 AM
OOC: Arm will hold on to the invisibility potion, as long as no one else objects....should anyone need it, he'll be happy to hand it over.. :)
Thar Monday June 28th, 2010 2:01:44 PM
Thar keeps a close eye out for this mysterious ghost, and waits for it to appear...
(Yes, Thar will take whatever healing things are offered as part of the party goods. Note that he already has several items (a CMW, some potions to neutralize poison, etc.) that are intended for party usage....)
Wynum Monday June 28th, 2010 5:37:29 PM
{OOC: Potion distribution so far Revi: CSW Ed: None Wynum: CSW Thar: One CCW scroll Arm: Gaseous Form, Invisibility and one CCW Scroll (I realize Arm's the only caster with this spell on his list and a sufficient level) Trixy: Spider Climb potion
A CSW potion and levitation remains.}
Trixy Monday June 28th, 2010 5:40:57 PM
( I'll take em. I'm less likely to have to take a critical action in combat due to the nature of being a theurge. I'll use em where they are needed. )
ooc rulings first / DM Buzz Monday June 28th, 2010 9:47:26 PM
For Trixy, I apologize for not addressing your post more fully. let us go over a couple of thing please.
What kind of spell were you casting to summon an owl? I did not see one marked off and if a spell is cast at any time, especially multiple spells, I will need an actions list on how long those spells take. Also, please leave a spell cast on your sheet and mark it with an * or a + or something, so I know you sacrificed a specific spell to summon an animal.
Secondly, unless you cast another spell enabling you to speak with a summoned creature or have the ability in some way, all it will do is stare at you patiently until you have an enemy for it to attack.
Dace, your eagle animal companion is also in this boat. Unlike a familiar, you have to give it specific animal commands that it is trained to perform. A druids link, I believe, is not the same as a familiar's link to an arcane caster. You can double check this in the Rules Board if you desire.
All of this said AND knowing your character would know this even if the player did not, if you would like to change a couple of spells that would allow you to speak with your animal "friends", I will allow it, so these actions can still occur.
Now, how long after midnight do you cast your armor spells and your Detect Undead spells please?
On to Wynum, as I said before, you can don the horseshoes this time without penalty, but it is my belief it takes time and skill to do this deed properly and efficiently. If a character does not succeed on DC10 in Knowledge: Farrier and spend a few gold on the proper tools to do the job right, it will fail after a random amount of time, turns or hours. It might be best to keep them on until you can pay someone a gold or two to do it right for you, or take a skill point in farrier so you can do it yourself. It takes ten minutes to perform.
DM post in a couple of hours. :)
Trixy Monday June 28th, 2010 10:32:12 PM
( First spell for summon 1 was a spontaneous burn of a cure light wounds spell, to summon the owl. Trixy should be able to communicate with the eagle at least, as emphatic link could relay that something of interest has been found.
Your right about the owl however, so to make it easier, I'll convert a second prepared cure light wounds to a speak with animals spell, and get the point across easier.
The detect undead began about the time we decided we had talked to the woman long enough. In fact, she's probably still close by, so we will call it right at midnight, or whatever time we ran into the woman asking us not to harm the ghost.
I have not yet cast Shield on Arm, though he has requested it. I shall hold that spell for later. )
0 level: Detect Magic 1, Read Magic 1, Disrupt Undead 2 1 level: Detect Undead, Mage Armor, Shield x3 2 level: Command Undead x2, Spectral Hand x2 3 level: Magic Circle vs Evil, Dispel Magic, Summon Monster III
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DM Buzz: Under Animal Companion link, it says no where that you can communicate with it mentally or verbally. Further more, it was ruled by the PTB on the rules board not long ago, animal companions are animals, not magical creatures.
Link (Ex) A druid can handle her animal companion as a free action, or push it as a move action, even if she doesn't have any ranks in the Handle Animal skill. The druid gains a +4 circumstance bonus on all wild empathy checks and Handle Animal checks made regarding an animal companion.
If you would like to dispute this ruling, please take it to the rules board. Thank you.
Requests
Her arrival / DM Buzz Monday June 28th, 2010 11:25:11 PM
Animals take to the air as Trixie casts a spell and lets them do their thing and she does not detect any spirits in the area, yet she also knows that if the creature is not in this plane, perhaps etheral, then the spell would not work in this manner.
And finally, a couple of hours go by. The people looking for the ghost seem to become frustrated or bored waiting for that which is rarely seen. They disperse in groups and individually until the group alone stands near the spot where Sampson and the young drunkard said they saw the phantom of the night.
Then, right over there, not very far away, a shimmering in the air is seen. An apparition of the finest sort comes into view. She is a woman of significant beauty, with chiseled features and long dark hair. Her stride appears confident and graceful as she slowly and steadily walks away from the party.
The owl is no where in sight. The spell that summoned it expired long ago, but with a shriek, an eagles cry is heard and then very soon after, it's wings are heard to beat above the head of it's gnomish companion.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 110/110 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Monday June 28th, 2010 11:49:01 PM
Revi seizes the moment and jogs up next to her, "Hi there, my name is Revi. I'm not here to ask you for a blessing like the rest, but rather, perhaps an explanation of why you're here. Is there something I can help you with?"
Not knowing how her wolf would react to a ghost, Revi had left Arashi back at the manor--hopefully she wouldn't need him, or find upon her return that he had torn Edmund's pillow to shreds, again.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday June 29th, 2010 4:42:54 AM
Arm sticks close to close to Trixy so she does not need to look too far for him when the time comes to cast the armor spell. Once their target appears, he draws his silver sword as quietly as he can, and nudges her as if to say, "You're on...".
Trixy Tuesday June 29th, 2010 8:34:07 AM
Trixy nodds in quiet, then casts the Shield spell on Arm.
Thar Tuesday June 29th, 2010 9:07:45 AM
Thar sees the woman come near, and unobtrusively casts Detect Evil and Magic Circle vs. Evil, 10', trying to get a feel for her demeanor... He lets Revi and the others speak, while he observes the woman...
Know... Nature? Religion? Not sure what check is important here...[
Wynum Tuesday June 29th, 2010 3:00:45 PM
Wynum moves alongside the apparition, but remaining about 50-100' away, if possible to keep line of sight. He also imbibes his Remove Fear potion.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Wednesday June 30th, 2010 4:30:50 AM
Arm casually approaches the apparition, slightly behind Revi but ready to act if need be.
ADM Florian Wednesday June 30th, 2010 9:44:49 PM
Sorry guys the subbing for Buzz is a bit unclear. I am awaiting clarification.
ADM Florian Thursday July 1st, 2010 10:22:24 AM
Revi approaches the apparition, with Arm and Thar following (as needed to Detect Evil).
The apparition does not seem to pay much attention to the barbarian, as she glides along the river banks. She seems distracted, but Revi is persistent and direct enough that she notices her at last and, without much looking at the warrior, whispers, as if for herself rather than a question:
"oh, yes... please.... maybe.... you have seen my sweet Vanty? Have you?"
and she continues gliding along. Arm notices she seems to be looking mostly at the river's opposite bank.
Meanwhile, Thar opens his soul to sense the presence of evil. He approaches but stops dead in his tracks, as he is assaulted by a violent wrenching as he gets close enough to the general area of where the ghost is, a very powerful negative feeling washing over him, and he can barely concentrate to try and confirm it emanates from the ghost. {next "turn"}
{OOC: For further interactions, please provide appropriate social checks and/or perception checks of your choosing. In each case explain what you are trying (I mean rather than rolling all your skills!). Also we might need someone to sub for Ed here}
Wynum Thursday July 1st, 2010 10:23:28 AM
Wynum remains at some distane, trying to understand what's going on, his bow tucked away.
Thar d20+8=15 ; d20+6=20 ; d20+19=38 ; Thursday July 1st, 2010 10:36:11 AM
Thar is disturbed by what he senses and says, "Um... Ed... Could you come here for a moment...?"
He describes what he feels, but tries to keep sensing evil to get some idea of if it eminates form the ghost or another evil creature or just the area itself... Or could she have some way to prevent him from learning about her...
Know (Religion?) = 15 (entities that could have this type of effect?) Sense Motive = 20 (on the ghost...) Spot = 38 (is there something here that he's missing, maybe something in the environment, on the bridge, a missing entity, something invisible..)
Thar Thursday July 1st, 2010 10:47:12 AM
(OOC - WIll be out of town until next Monday, and am not sure I'll have Inet... I'll try to post if I can...)
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 110/110 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 d20=5 ; Friday July 2nd, 2010 1:33:41 AM
"Vanty? Is this Vanty a person, place or thing?" Diplomacy roll: 5
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Friday July 2nd, 2010 5:35:40 AM
Arm is torn between staying with Revi and seeing to Thar. Being that Thar seems to be in more serious peril at the moment, he goes to him and attempts to offer him aid if he can.
ADM Florian Friday July 2nd, 2010 8:51:54 AM
{Just a quick post. Trixy, feel free to act. Arm, you can do something else on top of watching over Thar.}
"A place? A... thing?" The ghost seems almost puzzled, as if these word had lost their meaning. She adds, absent-mindedly, not even looking at Revi, "Have you seen her?"
Thar takes respite from the mental effort and welcomes Arm's help. He then remembers from his clerical training that his incantation would automatically register because the ghost is an undead creature. Therefore it is uncertain whether it is evil of not. However it does mean there is a very powerful entity in the area and Thar thinks it is definitely the ghost itself, judging from her demeanor and the fact he really can't see anything else in the surroundings. The ghost itself is obviously under a compulsion, as most ghosts are. She is not aggressive, rather yearning for something or someone with all her soul.
Trixy d20+5=22 ; Friday July 2nd, 2010 11:49:28 AM
Trixy approaches the apparation now, still not entirely convinced that this situation wont turn ugly in a heartbeat. She takes careful note to observe any unique jewelery, items, or clothing that the spirit is wearing and commits them to memory. (Spot 22 )
"We haven't seen her. Tell us where we can find her and we will look. How old is she? Is she your child?
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 110/110 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Friday July 2nd, 2010 1:53:17 PM
"I'm sorry no, but I can help you find her. Is it your daughter? How old is she, what was she wearing last and well, when and how did you...lose her?"
ADM Florian Saturday July 3rd, 2010 3:24:01 PM
"What a strange idea! My child! I don't love her like a child! But I do! I'm not sure you understand." for a moment the apparition appears relieved and joyous, but soon she fades back to a deeply painful expression, gazing across the river. Those nearby can even feel her sorrow clutching their own soul. "Her age I don't even know. Is she ten? A hundred? What if she's dead? What if I can't tell her?", then she sighs deeply, and at that moment she appears indeed quite older than at first glance. She looks at her translucent hands, "and me? I am but... nothing... now... will she hear me?"
Trixy takes not of her appearance and clothing details, eventhough she wears not much besides her robe, but that bears peculiar embroidery she commits to memory.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Monday July 5th, 2010 8:17:00 AM
Grateful that Thar is not in danger, Arm fights back the feeling of sorrow and says, "If you give us your message, we can tell her for you when we find her.".
Thar Monday July 5th, 2010 2:40:51 PM
Thar thanks Arm for his help and overwatch... He says in a sympathetic tone to the ghost, "Can you tell me about this child, this person you are yearning for? I sense that she is missing somehow and you want to find her... Can we help you find her or bring news of her to you?"
ADM Florian Monday July 5th, 2010 4:20:40 PM
"I need to tell her myself. I told you this is my secret!" She appears to become a little bit angry, and that is enough to scare you. She then settles down quickly. "But I can't reach her. I wish she comes to me! She's so close, and so far..."
At that moment, she points, or rather brings her arm up in a desperate attempt to get hold of something distant, which is the general direction of Leipa Landlubber's taxiboat largish waterfront building, on the other side of the river [hindquarter].
Trixy {Sorry I forgot} spotted one peculiar piece of jewelry on the apparition: a pendant with a precious stone in the shape of an eye.
Wynum Monday July 5th, 2010 11:05:07 PM
The centaur can't make up much of what's happening but he keeps a close watch. Nothing seems to stir, though.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday July 6th, 2010 6:06:59 AM
Arm stares out over the river toward where the ghost gestures, then supposes "Would you like us to seek out this person for you and bring her here so you can tell her what you need to?".
Edmund d20+12=31 ; d20+8=26 ; d20+22=30 ; Tuesday July 6th, 2010 12:31:58 PM
((OOC: I am recovering from Shingles and can use my hands again. Glad to be back!))
Edmund, who is rather uncharacteristically quiet, has been standing near the back of the group observing the ghost. At Thar's insistence, he moves to the fore to make a more critical appraisal of the ghost, trying to determine if it is just a spell, or if it is in fact an actual spectral being--or perhaps something from another plane entirely. (Know.Arcana=31, Know.Planes=26, Spellcraft=30)
After this, he raises his eyebrows a bit, but doesn't speak immediately.
Thar d20+5=22 ; d20+8=15 ; d20+1=14 ; Tuesday July 6th, 2010 2:13:54 PM
Thar tries to keep his patience and not simply draw out his cross and destroy the frustrating ghost. Taking a deep breath, he asks, "OK, so how can we help bring her to you? You said you wish she comes to you, and we would like to help you with this..."
He looks over to the direction where she pointed and tries to remember if he knows anything about that building or the area it's in... (Know Local? = 14)
He joins Edmund in trying to figure out more of what could be going on too... He's at a bit of a loss on what to do next... (Know Plane = 22, Know (Rel) = 15)
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 110/110 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Tuesday July 6th, 2010 3:46:23 PM
"If she's in that building yonder, we can bring her to you, okay?" Did I just say 'Yonder'? Geesh, I've been hanging around Thar too much, Revi thinks to herself.
Trixy Tuesday July 6th, 2010 6:22:11 PM
Trixy notes the special embroidery and stone for a spell later, and focuses now on the building before her.
Content to follow Edmunds lead, she is comforted and dissapointed at the same time that she won't have a chance to try any of her spells on the ghost.
ooc/ DM Buzz Tuesday July 6th, 2010 7:19:32 PM
Thank you Florian for covering for me. I apologize that I would not give you more then one scene to cover.
DM post will come tonight, or early tomorrow, as the case has been in the past.
Everyone, please send your thanks to Florian for a job well done.
ooc/ Florian Tuesday July 6th, 2010 10:07:51 PM
Well, in fact, thanks to you Buzz for kindly re-taking over in the current situation! I didn't have much to claim credit for.
Edmund Wednesday July 7th, 2010 2:18:11 PM
((OOC: Thanks, Florian. Glad to know someone was willing to step in and help us along for the best interest of the game!))
ooc/ DM Buzz Thursday July 8th, 2010 2:24:59 AM
Clarification:
Do to my own incompetence and lack of module palnning, your ex-ADM misunderstood a few things about this scene. So instead of continuing with information that might be misleading or inaccurate, please let us clear up a few things that might be confusing to the group.
The ghost is a female.
Vanty is a male. He appears to be her lover, or ex-lover as the case may be.
She longs to see her ex-lover, but for some reason can not reach him, where ever he might be.
She is not aggressive toward the group, even if she does have the taint of evil.
Did I miss anything?
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Thursday July 8th, 2010 5:10:16 AM
Arm awaits the ghost's response, hoping to help her out and move on with things.
OOC: Nope, I'm good, Buzz... :)
Thar Thursday July 8th, 2010 9:19:46 AM
Thar asks the ghost about this Vanty person and how they can help her reach him. He asks her about where he might live and how they might find him...
Wynum d20+7=23 ; Thursday July 8th, 2010 4:55:16 PM
Wynum checks around, making sure they don't get ambushed by further ghosts. He also racks his brain for histories related to Vanty persons.
History: 23
Trixy Thursday July 8th, 2010 5:47:26 PM
Trixy sighs and tries to keep her mental faculties wrapped around the whole situation. Perhaps there is still something to the building across the water the ghost was pointing at.
Edmund Thursday July 8th, 2010 7:36:55 PM
Edmund continues to think on his observations and what everyone else has provoked the ghost to say.
((OOC: Any result on the rolls I made in my previous post?))
Reasoning / DM Buzz Friday July 9th, 2010 2:54:56 AM
The night is cool and the stench from the Hindquarter drifts on the breeze that blows toward the bank where the group is walking. The river is dark with the waste from the people that care not for the beauty of this magnificent city and no one is seen to be looking for this ghost with which the group is talking. Is she being evasive or perhaps she does not know the intentions of those that are speaking to her? She wears no symbols of Flower so where some get the notion she is a servant granting blessings, is likely only rumor.
Is this creature an undead phenomenon or a powerful phantasm conjured by someone with arcane powers? A couple of members of the Mithril Order collaborate with their knowledge and come to the conclusion, she is indeed a ghost and she does have the abilities of one, if she so chose to use them. Yet, her preoccupation of what is across the small channel keeps her mind on the past and less on the present, which might change if she was forced to defend herself.
"Oh Vanty, I miss you.", she cries and then turns sharply to the group. "I am bound here for an eternity. The only thing that can release me is a gift of dragons blood. Please bring me a gift of dragons blood and my spirit may rest with my lover."
Her incorporeal eyes dig into the souls of those close to her. Her bearing is indeed beautiful and one could only imagine what brought her to this current state which obviously Gargul has allowed. The god of souls bends those creatures that have passed to his will and why this being is here, without malice or under the control of a Necromancer leaves one to wonder how this situation began.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Friday July 9th, 2010 8:14:53 AM
Arm is struck dumb by the ghost's stare, and merely nods and backs up a few steps. He anxiously awaits the rest to take their leave of her. Once they do, he says "I don't know if this is such a good idea...I don't like the idea of dragon blood...not at all. However, we cannot allow her to continue to terrorize the locals such as she is, so perhaps we should play along for now.".
Thar d20+1=20 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+5=20 ; Friday July 9th, 2010 10:18:17 AM
Thar squirms uncomfortably as the ghost stares into him but remains where he is. Turning to those around him, he says, "Um... I'm not a big fan of dragons blood but if that's what she needs... Anyone know where some can be found....? Also, it may be worth checking across the channel on this Vanty fellow and finding out more of who he is and why he's her ex-lover... I don't think there's much we can do for now...?
He tries to remember if he knows of any shops, temples or places where one could find dragons blood....
Wynum Friday July 9th, 2010 11:10:51 AM
"Well... easy enough. I've heard of a few dragons." the centaur comments helpfully "not seen one, though, but they're big. They got to be full of the stuff. Maybe if we ask one? Otherwise, I fear we might encounter mostly fake dragon blood if we try to buy some."
Edmund d20+2=19 ; Friday July 9th, 2010 3:04:23 PM
Edmund looks puzzled at the ghost's request, and has grown irritable as time wears on and she is yet to provide them with sensible information. Finally, he decides to act.
"Excuse me," he pipes up, stepping forward and raising his hand to get her attention. "Excuse me. Just a question for you. Why Dragon's Blood? How--and why--will that help? Not exactly easy to find lying about in heaps, so you'll pardon my asking, I hope."
That said, he listens to the ghost's response and does his best to figure out whether or not they are being lied to or misled. (Sense Motive=19)
Easier said then done / DM Buzz Monday July 12th, 2010 10:29:14 AM Arm is effected by the stare of the undead and has concerns about dealing with dragons blood in any form. Yet, her presence is causing some small commotion to the city and as her fame grows, someone might some day actually be effected, if not hurt by her existence.
Thar is fully aware of some curio shops that litter the city and who knows more about dragons then adventurers which litter the Dragon Quarter. Why dragons blood is needed, he has no idea. There are some religious ceremonies that many different sects of churches use in their rituals, both good and evil, but those ceremonies are done in private and the gathering of such blood requires a ritual unto itself and would likely not be sold to those outside of such close circles.
Wynum has little doubt, that finding the blood from the great beasts can't be that hard. They are hunted by many. He has never seen one, but it is believed they are a pretty common creature, often talked about in bars and taverns as well as plays and songs. Someone is likely carrying a vial around in this city as they speak.
Edmund does not immediately leave the presence of the spirit and attempts to determine if she is in some way misleading the group in her desires. A very good idea really, but he senses nothing, with his years of experience, that would give him the notion, what she is saying is not true. "Dragons blood is a part of my curse." Her eyes are sad "Be not mislead by what I have said. The dragons blood must be a gift. It can not be bought or taken but given freely by the creature. It is for this that I believe, I will forever be cursed to this location for I know, they are the most greedy of beings."
Clouds roll in and a light rain begins to fall from the sky. Small drops hit the party as well as the cobblestone walkway that is used daily by the residents of this beautiful city and as the full moon is covered by the clouds that seek to hide the satellite of Wardd, the spirit slowly fades from view, she gives no more words of hope, nor does she beg, but her features show...resignation. As if she feels she deserves in death what may have happened in life.
Then, she is gone, leaving no trace that she was here as daylight is still a few hours away. The group likely spent fifteen minutes with her, but the facts remain that rumors, at least some of the rumors are true. This area is haunted and it might not be so easy to remove this spirit from the area. Likely, when a creature like this has a penance to pay, if she were attacked by adventurers or those holy or unholy enough to use their divine powers to control or destroy, the spirit would likely just return again, when the setting once again is right, to continue with their grief.
Thar Monday July 12th, 2010 5:18:17 PM
Thar lets her go in peace and says a quick prayer for her well being. He remembers that it would be hard to get dragons blood from a seller, but it appears that it must be freely given...
He says, "Well, I see two options... If we can find a good dragon we could talk into helping us for a good cause, we could get some oof his blood. I'm not sure how much is needed though... On the other hand, we could find an evil dragon, vanquish it and then along with helping the ghost, we could benefit from the dragon's treasure haul..."
With a grin, he asks, " So... anyone have any dragons in their contact list or address book? Or do you know anyone we could talk to about it, maybe a local ranger's group? I could see if some of my fellow priests or rangers know of dragons that reside near here..."
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 110/110 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Monday July 12th, 2010 6:11:21 PM
Revi wasn't sure what to do, "So boys, what's next?"
Edmund d20+8=21 ; d20+8=14 ; d20+8=19 ; Monday July 12th, 2010 7:49:38 PM
Edmund shakes his head at Thar's second suggestion.
"No, as the ghost has just said, it has to be freely given by the dragon as a gift. We can't just slay an evil dragon and take its blood. So, we're going to need to find a good dragon willing to help lift this curse and prevent further disruption of the wold."
"As for the amount," the wizard says, "I know rather a lot about these sorts of things, and I suspect we'll need an entire phial full--that's not a whole lot, especially for a creature as large as a dragon. Moreover, I have plenty of empty phials in my room!"
Edmund puzzles over the situation and racks his brain, trying to recall if he knows of any good dragons in the area, or which might have some sort of notoreity. (Know. History=21, Know. Local=14, Know. Nature=19)
Trixy d20+4=19 ; d20+4=13 ; d20+10=14 ; Monday July 12th, 2010 8:09:42 PM
Trixy slides over towards Edmond as he thinks about Dragons, and cheerfully tries to help him out.
"Bart the Blue? Roger the Red? Gary the Green? Willie the White? Barbie the Black?"
"What? Yes, of course I know those are all evil dragon colors, but if anyone knows where to find the good dragons who might be trying to kill them, it's the bad ones! And it's much easier to find an evil dragon than a good one, I would think..."
[Trixy - Aid Another - Edmund.]
[Success on all three counts, raising Edmund to 23, 16, and 21.]
Wynum d20+7=12 ; Monday July 12th, 2010 10:08:54 PM
Wynum trots nearby, eager to make some use of his own knowledge. He draws one of the books from his packs and browse through the pages.
"Hmm yes. And I recall of a history involving Gorax the Gold and Skilt the Silver. And the was this copper one. Can't quite make the name. This should help, right? Does the color of blood matters?"
Aid History: succes: +2, bringing to 25
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday July 13th, 2010 4:49:04 AM
Arm wracks his brain, but is unable to come up with any useful information for the group. Wishing that Mira were still with them, he shrugs his shoulders and replies to Wynum, "I don't think the color would matter...if there IS a difference in color...as long as it is given freely.". To the rest, he continues "Well, I don't see anything else to be done here. Let's return to the Manor for now, and hopefully we'll be inspired on the way.".
Wet but safe / DM Buzz Tuesday July 13th, 2010 12:02:33 PM
On the way back to the manor, the group talks of dragons they have heard of and read about, but do not know them personally. How do they get in touch with such figures? They are likely incognito in some manner to avoid being the super heros of their lifetimes, except for the evil ones which are likely plotting against humanity and their cousins. Either that or they are avoiding hunters of dragons, which there are plenty of on both sides of good and evil.
The streets are sparse with people, but the arm bands are still plain as day on this rain soaked night. A flash of lightening streaks across the sky as the drizzle begins to pour and people without head gear or umbrellas run through the wetness to avoid the wrath of the elements that are hitting the city at this time. The nice thing about it is, undead from the sewers tend to be slowed down after a good bit of moisture, so the last of the debates today might actually go without incident.
Survival DC: 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The rain will be over before the sun rises. It is not a prolonged storm but just a wandering thunder head providing some much needed moisture.}
The manor is warm and inviting and the group can shrug off their wet clothes for a bit of a nap, before the sun rises.
The debate is supposed to start at noon, so for the divine casters, your spells can be nice and fresh, if the morning is when you choose to do them, but arcane spells, like Armor spells, will need a full time period to memorize.
Ooc: I believe you need a full eight hours of rest before you can memorize your arcane spells after casting them, then another hour to prepare them, which will make you all late for the start of the debate, which the elven constable had hoped you all would attend to help ensure the security of the area.
Thar d20+9=19 ; Tuesday July 13th, 2010 1:49:29 PM
Thar sludges through the rain, unconcerned about getting a bit damp. After all, he enjoys a bit of change in the environment.... (Survival = 19)... However, he looks closely at the thunder, clouds and rain patterns, and deduces that it will soon be over rather than lasting all night...
Looking to the rest of the group, he continues walking toward the manor and says, "Well, we might as well take a small break, but we don't want to be late for the final debate. We've been asked to provide presence and security, so we may have to take less than a full rest tonight..."
Thar Tuesday July 13th, 2010 1:50:44 PM
(2nd post... Hit submit too early...)
"However, I'm concerned about the rain ending early and we might still have to face some undead once it stops... We still should prepare for undead to arrive but hope they don't..."
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 110/110 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Tuesday July 13th, 2010 5:05:06 PM
Revi sleeps soundly after caring for her armor and weapons. She also makes sure Arashi is well fed after her little excursion since of late he seems to have lost a lot of weight.
Trixy Tuesday July 13th, 2010 8:56:50 PM
Still rambling off dragon names, Trixy tromps off to her room. There is little she can do in the way of preparation, so she continues on her rant..
"Bill the bronze.. sam the silver.. gygax the gold..."
Wynum d20+1=21 ; Tuesday July 13th, 2010 10:04:10 PM
"Well. No dragons, then. But do we really need to stop that ghost? I mean... Well. Regarding this rain, what about we make sure beforehand there is no troubles. A little scouting down them gutters. We can bring some light. And boots. Do you think we can find dragons down there?"
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Wednesday July 14th, 2010 5:00:39 AM
Shrugging off his damp clothing, Arm retires to his room, thoughts of dragons and ghosts forgotten for the moment in favor of some shuteye.
Edmund Wednesday July 14th, 2010 11:03:58 AM
Edmund hasn't used any spells, so he is perfectly content to take a shortened nap--of course, he realises others might not be so keen.
When Wynum suggests scouting beforehand, the wizard looks alarmed.
"What? Dragons in the gutters? Don't be absurd. They are quite large! Not the sort of thing that could fit in a gutter, to be sure. They're really not like that at all. Do you even know what a dragon is, Wynum? It's a big sort of lizard thing the size of a house. Dragons, not flagons. Though, if we could find a flagon, I think I might be persuaded to do a bit of looking at present, after that cold and unpleasant walk home."
With that, the half-elf heads off to his room to disrobe and bathe before bed.
Wet but safe / DM Buzz Wednesday July 14th, 2010 11:09:39 AM
First day back to work all.
I will post tonight.
Have a good day.
Thar Wednesday July 14th, 2010 2:20:10 PM
Checking in for the day...
Speeches
Assignments / DM Buzz Thursday July 15th, 2010 2:26:27 AM The majority have decided to return to the manor. Since Wynum only suggested adventuring in the sewers and did not specify leaving the group, the DM will assume everyone is home safe and sound. :)
The morning dawns nice and bright with just a few clouds overhead, in no way pending more rain, at least for a few hours. Cobblestone walk ways and brick lined side walks glisten with moisture from the short down pour the group experienced this morning. In preparation of the day, the group sets off toward the debate. The city is bustling with merchants setiing up vending carts with hot breads and pastries as well as meat pies, line the walk way, as well as cotton candy, caramel covered kettle corn and hats. "Don't forget your hat to protect you from the seasons!" Call a young many carrying around a dozen over each shoulder, walking through the crowd and approaching anyone without head gear, "One gold a piece for a bit of protection? Thermo will shine bright today." The groups winds it's way through a small circus of people and lanes until the finally approach The Gold Arena, in the Gladiator Park Quarter. A massive structure capable of holding 40,000 people. Special box seats available for taurs and other large citizens, like ogres and trolls. It is surrounded by trees, tall and thick. Hundreds of years old, they protect those walking along Unicorn Trail toward the main entrance.
Constable Rabbitsfoot is having a meeting of heroes starting about two hours before they allow the populace into the area. There are no seen members of the mighty Dragon groups of the city, but there are some well known troupes eager to lend a hand to what they consider their city. First, you have Griffin Riders. They have been asked to do an aerial patrol of the arenas walls, making sure no one is climbing up the side or lurking in the tree tops. To the leaders of the Mailed Fist, they are asked to station themselves in the stands, especially where some of the more chaotic crowds tamed a bit. No need in another near mob incident to occur, when there are so many innocents present also. Hands of Many, a multi classed, monk based adventuring guild has been asked to patrol, with the militia the Unicorn Trail and stay near the entrances to the quarter. Lastly, the Mithril Order. The Halfling turns to you all and says, "Something special about the lot of you, for you have the luck of halfling spirit about you all. It seems, you have earned the trust of both the mayor and the city council. Likely something that hasn't ever happened before in my short life. Lynom spoke well of you to the council as well as Sturtevant and they would like for you all to stay near the pedestal of the candidates. A show of force and unity as well as diversity. If something is to happen, they are to be whisked away to separate areas of the underground pits and exited out and away to there private manors. Your job is one of protection. Are you up for it? Quite a bit responsibility."
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Thursday July 15th, 2010 5:13:46 AM
Arm buys one of the vendor's hats, more out of pity than of necessity. Donning it, he continues through the crowd with the rest of the party. Once Rabbitsfoot has explained their task to them, he says to him, "Well, it seems that you have the situation well in hand with the other groups, but I'll be happy to lend a hand where needed," thinking that a harder task will be watching the crowd and paying attention to what is being said at the same time.
Wynum Thursday July 15th, 2010 11:31:42 AM
"Well, as long as I can stay a bit away from the podium. The last aggressors we have seen were keen on fireballs. This does not strike me as wise to stay bunched together with the potential targets. I will stay some distance away. After all, if we're too close, it will only contribute to make people fear attacks, right?"
Wynum therefore searches for an adequate spot where he could keep watch on the podium.
Thar Thursday July 15th, 2010 2:30:16 PM
As they walk through the crowds, Thar enjoys "people" watching, as well as all the preparation for the big event. He's glad that so many groups have volunteered to step forward and help provide security. It seems that their order has one of the most crucial tasks, and he echoes Arm's comments. "Yes, we'll provide some security and safety for the leaders...."
Thinking for a moment, he asks, "I've got some questions about who exactly we are to take with us re: candidates (numbers, ...) , where exactly are the entrances to the underground pits, how far are they away, and where are the private manors? Also, are there any limits on what we can do re: protecting the candidates and are we authorized to use lethal force in order to protect our charges?"
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 110/110 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Thursday July 15th, 2010 3:29:50 PM
Revi remains silent, letting those better with words to speak for the group--whatever it was they were getting into, she was up for it.
Trixy Thursday July 15th, 2010 9:11:53 PM
Trixy stands near Revi, comparing their foot size together. Bandit chitters happily in her ear. She suddenly looks panicked and continues measuring feet. Finally, she frowns and yells at the weasel.
"Bandit! Hush! The size of her foot says absolutely nothing about the skill of the druid!"
She looks around and grins sheepishly.
"Sorry."
Edmund d20+8=21 ; d20+12=31 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+3=13 ; Thursday July 15th, 2010 9:49:38 PM
Edmund is pleased to hear the Mithril Order spoken of highly, and agrees with Thar's questioning.
Additionally, he scans the crowd to see if he can notice anything unusual or any people of note, but the bustle and commotion of the crowd is difficult for his text-strained eyes and overly-sensitive half-elven hearing.
Thar Saturday July 17th, 2010 10:22:31 AM
Checking in...
OOC: Exit stage left / DM Buzz Monday July 19th, 2010 12:06:05 AM
ooc: Greetings all. I hope you all had a wonderful weekend.
Jim/Revi will be moving to another game, in order to experience a higher level game, especially with some of the new site additions we are heading toward. Let us all wish him well at his new venue.
As for the Mithril Order, I know we are slowly shrinking and we might not get any more players for a while, since our site recruiter is on vacation.
Let us just think of this game as an old fashioned table top game for a bit. I will be including a bit more information into my posts, with this scene leading up into the election, as well, you all will be fairly busy rather soon, but it will be nothing that the five of you can not handle.
I will take a day to field any question or concerns some of you might have. If I don't get any, we will continue with the scene, exiting Revi with honor and setting the group up in locations as well as answering the questions posed in your previous posts.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 110/110 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Monday July 19th, 2010 1:51:33 AM
As Revi was standing there and taking in everything she noticed a small squat young man, most likely a barbarian from his manner of dress, staring at her. She would have simply turned away if it hadn't been for the Sun Bear tattoo he bore. A cold chill ran down her spine when the young man approached. Instinctivily her hand moved to her weapon, but the young man raised his hands in peace. When he was close enough for Revi to smell him, he spoke quietly, "I know who you are, Revi Kinslayer. The hunt continues, if you stay here, everything you hold dear will be destroyed. Your choice. You have one hour, then we pursue." The young man spat at her feet, then turned away and disappeared into the burgeoning crowd.
An ill-fated life, born of strife and woe. How much longer, she thought to herself. Looking at her new found friends, she gave in, she would not drag them into this. With a soft embrace of her well-muscled arm around Edmund's waist, she pulled him close and spoke softly, "Just shut up and listen. My past has caught up with me and I will not bring shame and disgrace to the Order. I thought I had somehow eluded it because I was clever or lucky, but I was just lying to myself. Edmund, take care of the Order as you always have, and tell the rest it was my honor to fight alongside them. Tell them... tell them goodbye for me." She gave him a sad smile, then slipped into the crowd, her arm that had been around Edmunds waist raised as she waved goodbye, then she was gone.
Thank you all for letting me share in your adventures :)
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Monday July 19th, 2010 5:20:44 AM
OOC: Best of luck to you Jim, and Revi's sword arm will be missed! :)
Thar Monday July 19th, 2010 10:43:09 AM
(Good luck Jim and it was great having you here! I hope you hvae a great time in your new game and we'll miss you ;-) )
Preparing for action / DM Buzz Monday July 19th, 2010 8:35:28 PM Arm looks dashing in his new hat. Some how, it matches his adventurers clothes well. He is correct in what his duties will entail. It is confirmed by Constable Rabbitsfoot. "Yes, yes, watch the crowd indeed. Especially for those that might try to rush the stage. If it's one or two, just occupy them until help arrives.
Wynum states his positioning with the orders and he is put at ease, "The arena is magically protected. Nothing can be summoned or cast into or out of the arena. It is secure from all magic. The ingoing magical protection are temporary, just imbued this morning, but the arena has a permanent magical ward, to protect spectators from spells..
Thar wants specifics and the constable gives him an approving wink with a nod, "Now I know why they wanted you folks close. Which ever candidate is attacked is the one you will protect. Me and my crew will be having to deal with crowd control if something happens. Gormley and I believe, if one is attacked, it will be by a supporter of another. If by the slim chance they are both attacked though, you will have to split up, won't ya? We have trap openings right behind the candidates, five feet away. If something happens, they will both be opened at they will exit. Below are their personal assistants. They will tell you where to take them, if that need arises. As for lethal force, be Domied sure no innocents are hurt. Only use as much force as needed. Disgruntled citizens and anarchists from abroad use these occasions for their own and today, it will not be made a mockery!"
Edmund is happy his cleric companions has covered the basics and begins his own scouting mission before they are in position. Over there by the fountain is a carriage carrying the Family Witherspoon. The husband, a general in the Plateau City army and wife, the inheritor to a massive gem and jewelry cartel. To be invited to one of their ball's would put an up and coming local hero on the A-list of a city.
Trixy takes in the many sites available today. Every person from every facet of life is here today. Almost everyone is wearing an arm band, in support of their favorite candidates. She moves with the group, through the crowd and taken down into the large arena setting, before the candidates have arrived, likely through some form of magical transportation for safety sake.
The crowd slowly grows in size as seats are filled. Smells of tobacco and sweat begins to fill the air. A draft will bring along the scent of perfumes brought along with the warm summer breeze as clouds fly gently over head, following the whims of the winds.
Already, members of The Mailed Fist are handing people over to the militia for being disorderly. A mood setting standard as they are booed by the anarchists at heart, but after a couple of hours, the time is set for the candidates to come out. An adventuring group called the Devil's Advocates cause a bit of a problem as they are always looking for trouble in the city, when they are not looking or looting treasure outside of the city. They are a motley group with two half orcs, an elf and two dwarves, all of whom have a nasty disposition and some say, although not open about their beliefs, they follow the ways of Caeroldra. They relent when approached by the members of the Fist though and are allowed to stay, even if watched very closely.
ooc: The group can be twenty feet away or further away from the candidates, but any group member that is over fifty feet away will not be a part of getting the candidate away and can assist in crowd control or detainment of aggressors. We will split the arena up into NW/NE/SW/SE quadrants. The arena is way, way to large to turn into a map, so if battle breaks out and a scale map is needed, we will go from there, depending on where the battle takes place. I will let Edmund break the news about Revi to everyone so that a response can take place within your post.
Wynum Monday July 19th, 2010 9:37:47 PM
Wynum will stay about 30 feet from the podium, in the quadrant that affords him the best field of view towards the Devil's Advocates.
Trixy Monday July 19th, 2010 11:04:50 PM
Trixy takes care to set herself as far away from the crowd in general as she can. Taking time to work with the spells she has, she looks for a place she can climb a little higher and see everything that she normally couldnt.
Edmund (HP 54/54, AC 12) Message Tuesday July 20th, 2010 12:42:32 AM
Edmund is shocked nearly out of his skin at Revi's sudden embrace. He finds himself quite unable to speak, whatever her command, and so he listens in complete silence as she speaks to him.
When she lets him go, his first conclusion is that this is just another of her jokes, and he cracks a sarcastic smile at her--until he sees the expression on her face. Then, the wizard knows at once that she was being serious, and the smile--and colour--fade from his face. He looks like he is about to be ill.
As Revi waves goodbye, Edmund begins to formally salute, but stops halfway. His shoulders sag a bit as he instead waves to her, knowing that he won't be seeing her again.
"...Goodbye," he says quietly.
After Revi disappears into the crowd, Edmund stands numbly, staring through the crowd, completely ignorant of any sound or happening taking place. He neither speaks, nor moves, even as people brush past him, whispering things such as, "Isn't that Edmund from the Mithril Order?" Several minutes pass before he forces himself to regain his composure.
Edmund then sets out to meet the other members of the Mithril Order, casting Message on them as he goes. He says nothing of Revi's departure until after all the members of the MO have been en-Messaged.
"Revi had to... ah... go for a bit," he says into the Message spell, once he has returned to his original position. "Very sudden--she wanted me to let you all know. I'll tell you more about it later. What's important is that we remain focused on the task at hand, right? Right so. I'm going to check out the Witherspoons, since they're here. I want to make sure everything is all right with them, considering they are a conspicuous target."
With that, Edmund makes his way to the carriage of the Witherspoons, announcing to the crowd in an authoritative voice, "Edmund, Archmage of the Mithril Order, stand aside please, stand aside."
When he reaches the carriage, he knocks quietly, and announces himself with the usual titles and honorifics, and enquires of the Witherspoons if their security is to their satisfaction, and if there is anything the Archmage Edmund can do to put them at ease.
Spells - Durations - Effects Message on Mithril Order - 1000 Rounds - Communicate across across distances and through light barriers. (PH 253)
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday July 20th, 2010 5:26:37 AM
Arm joins Wynum in moving toward the Devil's Advocates, reasoning that he's better off away from the half-orcs where HE may be the one to cause problems with them. He takes up a position about 20 feet from the stage, and tries his best to look observant without LOOKING like he's observing.
OOC: I don't mean to be a pain, but...Ed and Trixy...Buzz said in his post to Wynum that the area is warded against all magic, so I suppose your Message spell didn't take, Ed...and a word to the wise for Trixy... :)
Thar Tuesday July 20th, 2010 10:18:41 AM
Thar watches the Devil's Advocates stir up some trouble, but it seems the Mailed Fist has them handled for now. He's glad that they stepped in, but he would have liked to knock down the DA's a rung or two to show them how unliked they really are...
He hears Revi's reason for leavings and sadly nods his understanding. Life sometimes intrudes on our plans...
Returning the matter at hand, Thar tries to stay close to the delegates (20'). He makes sure there is a clear path b/t them and the escape door, and if anyone does block it, then he'll gently move them aside and give some religious excuse for his actions. He makes sure he's in his clerical robe and tries to seem as one of their religious advisers rather than a bodyguard... Hopefully this will detract attention from him...
Preparing for action / DM Buzz Tuesday July 20th, 2010 10:46:50 AM
ooc: No Arm, I apologioze for not being clear.
The arena is warded from magic from the spectator stands and the spectator stands are warded from the arena. Magic works normally in those two areas, the magic just can't cross the barrier.
Trixy Tuesday July 20th, 2010 11:47:45 PM
Trixy sits bored, watching the whole proceedings. Armed only with spells that are particularly useful against undead, she is unhappy that their wild-ghost-chase led them gone so far into the night that she was unable to reorganize her spell power.
Not that she was anything much compared to Edmund, but still..
She liked to be prepared.
Preparing for action / DM Buzz Wednesday July 21st, 2010 4:45:28 AM
Sorry for missing a post yesterday guys. Life got real hectic. Might be this way for a couple more weeks while I execute my dads will.
Post coming later today.
Thar Wednesday July 21st, 2010 10:16:35 AM
OOC - Hey guys and gals... I'll be gone from 24 - 31 July on a church mission trip, where I'll be leading a bunch of High School youth to Cleveland... I'll try to post in the evenings if we have Inet access...
Trixy Wednesday July 21st, 2010 9:54:38 PM
OOC: When it rains it pours. I've got a lot going on right now and am going to retire down to 1 character. Since Trixy is my newest, I'll be shedding this one. It's been fun everyone. Too bad I never got to pull Trixy into combat, not that her Druid/Wizard abilities wouldve done much.
Thar Thursday July 22nd, 2010 11:09:43 AM
Checking in...
Debates begin / DM Buzz Thursday July 22nd, 2010 8:06:15 PM
The loss of those that contribute to a unit of people leave lasting impact on those that are within it. Revi will be missed as thoughts of her running around in her underwear flash through those that lived with her. The thought is to much for Trixie to bear. Oh, she loves the Mithril Order, but they don't need anything. Revi though, she has need of a friend and no one is a better friend then a druid friend. She too says goodbye to the others and uses Dace to look for her or Arashi. May their journeys be joyous and without unwanted incident.
Even with the loss, Edmund knows, life in the city must go on and getting to know your neighbors is important. As he approaches the carriage of the Witherspoons, he is intercepted by their own personal guard. Some of the elite for the defense of New Elenna and greeted well. A sharp captain, clean cut with dress blue pants and jersey, each lined with intricate gold weave. One can see he wears four medals on his chest, mounted on a tight fitting, closed collar and long sleeved parade uniform. "His and Her Lordship are not receiving visitors at this time. If you would like to leave a message or set up an appointment, their offices will be open tomorrow." His hands go no where near the brilliantly artistic saber that hangs from his hip... Later in the arena he can take either the NW or SW quadrant, in order to cover the incumbent Sturtevant, whom is scheduled to come out soon..
Standing not from where Caal will be staged to speak against the ideas of a king, Wynum watches the trouble making Devil's Advocates, waiting for something to happen. His massive frame an intimidating structure of muscle, sinew and bone. Looking up into the faces of thousands of people is not something centaurs get a chance to do very often, let alone tens of thousands.
Arm joins him in the NW quadrant, also covering Caal. The bard in him strums his heart strings as his nature would be to entertain this crowd, yet his want to perform stilled by needing to perform a serious and important duty, guarding the leaders of today and the future. An indication that hard work and good deeds are rewarded, not just in money but Honor and fame as well.
Thar is saddened by the loss of the groups two druids, but those that are bound to the earth, such as they have agendas unknown to clerics or other classes and they are to be respected for their decisions. Entering the arena, positioning himself near to the two podiums, he can see the crowd settling in. Clerics and priests of many kind are attending the event today and they tend to sit in groups throughout the large arena. Waiting patiently for the event to begin.
And so it does...
The main seating of this arena is enormous and that is where those of "common" birth are seated, but down in front and surrounding the main podium are the most influential of the city and their retinue and guards. The milling around the podium platform is to be expected at first and settles down after awhile, but the sheer number of people involved here comes to bear as a small roar rumbles down onto the field from all the people talking and moving. It will only be through powerful magic that the debate can be heard by all, through the entire complex..
The two podiums are 10' feet apart and turned length wise with the field, facing each other, they will debate this day on the key issues the city had brought up in debates past. Ten feet behind each podium is their exit and entrance. The small hole leads down into sharp corridors which will take a candidate out of the arena and through tunnels out of the quarter.
When the time is right, a cheer is heard through the complex as Sturtevant slowly walks up the stairs and waves to the crowd. He has a high charisma and seems to shine in his white and red robes. With a black belt and boots to bring his wardrobe to a close, he is of noble bearing himself. His middle aged visage one of experience and confidence. He easily takes the podium with authority and determination and waits for his opponent.
Then, out comes Caal, after some waiting. Wearing a blue tunic and black leather pants, his style impresses the younger generations and those that avoid conformity. The free spirits that want to keep the city under a multiple mandated government, doesn't feel it is the best government, to those of this mind, but it is better then being under the thumb of one person. The crowd goes a bit wild with his entrance and he raises his arms in the air as if he has already won the race. Those sitting close to the podiums, out of the arena stands do not seem to be as exuberant in their support of the young man, but it is clear, the nobles have more to lose then anyone, potentially.
Please make Listen and Spot checks.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] d20+17=25 ; d20+9=10 ; Friday July 23rd, 2010 6:31:03 AM
Taking special care not to favor one candidate over another, Arm politely claps for them both, all the while keeping a sharp eye and ear out for any signs of trouble, though his ear seems to be better than his eye today (listen=25, spot=10).
Edmund (HP 54/54, AC 12) Message, Mage Armour d20+15=31 ; d20+3=15 ; d20+3=10 ; Friday July 23rd, 2010 12:41:23 PM
Edmund smiles diplomatically at the guard, and informs him that he is from the Mithril Order, and that he just wanted to make certain that their security needs were amply provided for. (Diplomacy=31)
"And," he says to the guard, "I can see their security is first-rate. Keep up the fine work!"
With that, he heads back towards the platform of Mayor Sturtevant. He also makes certain that the crowd is fully aware of whom he is, and does his level best to be as near the platform as possible. He also takes the opportunity to cast Mage Armour on himself.
If Edmund manages to catch the Mayor's eye, he gives Sturtevant an encouraging smile.
Otherwise, Edmund does his best (admittedly, not very well), to pay attention to the crowd. (Listen=15, Spot=10)
Spells - Durations - Effects Message on Mithril Order - 1 Hour 40 Minutes - Communicate across across distances and through light barriers. (PH 253) Mage Armour on Self - 10 Hours - +4 Armour Bonus to AC. (PH 249)
Thar d20+19=24 ; d20+13=32 ; Friday July 23rd, 2010 2:47:56 PM
Thar maintains his quiet observance of the crowds and watches closely for any that could raise problems or cause trouble. He occasionally checks in with Wynum, Arm and Edmund to ensure that they haven't seen anything... He ensures that his glasses are clean to ensure they're able to give him a good view of everyone...
Spot = 24 Listen = 32
CDM Jerry [OOC] Friday July 23rd, 2010 3:28:45 PM
Mithril, I have sent an email to all of you. If you didn't get it, please email me and let me know. I need replies by Monday if you can please.
Don't ignore this please.
ooc / DM Buzz Tuesday July 27th, 2010 12:52:03 AM
The time has come for us to wrap this game up. There are some things, some of you might want to settle, like Arm and his girlfriend as well as Thar and Ruby. How will these issues be wrapped up so you guys can move on?
Also, I am going to leave the fate of the Wold in your hands my friends. You four get a vote to choose the next king of New Ellena or have the Kingdom continue under the authority of a council and the castle will sit even longer, empty save for the skeleton crew that keeps it clean.
Let me know what you want to do and we will get this all wrapped up in a couple of weeks.
Thanks all.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday July 27th, 2010 5:40:46 AM
OOC: Buzz, once we get a firm story bridge in place, I'll make a post that will dovetail with it :)
ooc / DM Buzz Tuesday July 27th, 2010 4:07:58 PM
ooc: Hmm, I was kind of hoping for your ideas so I might be able to build a bridge, but I can wing it.
Post tonight.
Edmund (HP 54/54, AC 12) Message, Mage Armour Wednesday July 28th, 2010 1:19:33 AM
((My vote is for the council. It will give Ed something to grind his teeth about for ages, and he is always fond of having something to grumble about.))
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Wednesday July 28th, 2010 5:14:54 AM
OOC: OH, sorry... :) I'll vote for the council as well, and since Arm won't be in the City anymore, he'll have to bid Marie a proper goodbye. Since she was traveling with the gambling troupe, perhaps they'll meet again someday? :)
A message to the people / DM Buzz Wednesday July 28th, 2010 10:24:02 AM
Sturtevant waits for the crowd to hush. When he speaks the podium glows faintly blue, and his voice is magically amplified throughout the arena.
"Right now this city is engaged in a battle of ideas for the city's future. On the one side of this battle we have a vision for Plateau City's future which says that, when it comes to economic prosperity, you cannot have economic prosperity and social justice -- that these are," Sturtevant looks meaningfully towards Caal's supporters in their orange armbands, "incompatible.
"There is another view, another vision -- and it is my vision," he waits for the enormous cheer to fade, "which says that this City and this people are at their best when we are a people and a city committed to building ourselves as a prosperous City while at the same time not jettisoning our vision for a fair Plateau City and a fair society. In an absolute nutshell that is the divide between us -- a view of the world which says it is about me, myself and I, and an alternative view which says that we are about a society, a City, which, sure, recognises that individual hard work, achievement and success are to be encouraged and rewarded but, at the same time, that we cannot turn a blind eye to the interests of our fellow people who are not doing well.
"Ideas in politics are important. They in fact affect everything that we do. They shape our vision of what is possible for the government to do for the City. They shape the concrete dimensions of policies which are brought forth in this chamber. Ideas shape the content of legislation. They shape everything that is done in this place, and that is why on this occasion it is important to revisit what actually divides us.
"What are our different views of the role of government and society? What are our different views of what the state can do to help its people? Because this divide between us is fundamental to the debate that we are going today. It is a debate which also impacts fundamentally on the interests of Plateau City families."
It is with this, the two engage in a blistering debate for the next couple of hours and at various times, it seems Caal is way out of his league when it comes to plans for the future. It seems the young man might even be a puppet to the council as he looks off into the close proximity of the nobles for support when answering the questions of his opponent. However, when Caal asks Stutervant questions, the answers are clear, concise and well planned. between the two, those against a kingdom coming to Plateau City can be glad, Caal will likely not make the three elections to be king himself.
A night of fun or fatigue / DM Buzz Thursday July 29th, 2010 12:52:30 AM
The debates end with no harm done. The Mithril order has prestige amongst the populace. Well deserved prestige as well. While the beginning part of a few hours go by as people begin pouring slowly out of the arena, Caal and Sturtevant shake each of your hands and adjourn safely to their residences.
The group has been up most of last night and all of today. The four that remain can either go hope and get some well deserved sleep or, knowing they do not have commitments tomorrow, they can go party at Sampsons and relish their new notoriety. The militia guards nod their heads towards the heros as they make their way out of the arena. Their respect is clear as is their impression of the group is something they hope to attain someday themselves. Being one of the few left in the arena, night slowly pulls it's dark blanket over the city with a few members of the Hands of Many and the Mailed Fist offering to buy you all the first round.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Thursday July 29th, 2010 6:28:46 AM
Arm gratefully accepts the offer of a drink or three, but promises himself not to stay very long, as he is starting to feel the ache of no sleep in his very bones.
Thar Thursday July 29th, 2010 10:13:23 AM
Thar enjoys the time to rest, especially since there appears to be peace and a decided lack of conflict, at least for now. He enjoys the time with the rest of the MO, especially Arm and Edmund, and then goes to bed for a well deserved rest...
(OOC - Re: Ruby, we closed that out a month or 2 ago where she had to run off for a family emergency... Thar was a bit hurt since his fiancee bailed, but he had met a cute human wizard at the college...)
Edmund (HP 54/54, AC 12) Message, Mage Armour Friday July 30th, 2010 11:29:35 AM
The wizard passes up the offer of a free drink on account of being very tired from lack of sleep. The order has been hard pressed lately.
Instead, he heads back to the Manor with Arm and Thar, wondering what the outcome of the election will be.
Thar Monday August 2nd, 2010 2:38:11 PM
Just checking in...
Not a weak week. / DM Buzz Monday August 2nd, 2010 10:49:02 PM
The week goes by fast for the group as the many activities of the city really come out in the faces of the people the group has come to know. The auction that they helped gather items for continues to receive goods and Sampson, with his own funds, had to buy a storage locker for all the items, because he could no longer get to his kegs, with all the goods he housed in cellar. Father Guud is pleased to tears when he hears that almost twenty thousand gold pieces in donations has been raised, up until the day of the election. Now, he has the immense job of preparing for the auctions results and finding the proper contractors to hire and make sure, they employ the citizens of The Shanty Quarter for their labor means.
The week is indeed well for everyone as the influence bestowed upon the heros seem to help your stature. The Mithril Order has been invited to the home of the Witherspoons for a private dinner. Edmund would know right away that the very noble family has invited them to their house in this manner to gauge the guests manners, speech and in every way judge them to see in they would be proper guests if invited to a party. This is a great opportunity for someone that enjoys the upper classes of life and... even if one isn't concerned to be associated with such snobs, the dinner would be assuredly be fantastic and the booze free. The Witherspoons are in all ways, very polite and friendly. Who does Edmund know, to take as a guest to such a fine event?
Oh the life of a bard at parties and other events can be heavy as everyone wants to be entertained. So it is when Armathen and Marie are alone together, one has some peace from the paparazzi and the adoring fans. She informs him, early in the week, as they lay between fine linen sheets, that she will be leaving four days before the election. The road calls yet again and a rambling rover knows the summons well, as these types of people can not let the dust around their feet, rest long. That night is long for the two as if they are two ships on a long voyage, who might some day pass on their journey's once again. If she hears of Arm being able to take a guest to the noble party the Mithril Order was invited to, she hops up and down, squealing, while clapping her hands together. She makes it clear, she will need a new dress!
Many changes has effected the life of the group, but none more then the cleric Thar, who seems to have lost his love to a recent family emergency. Some would call it funny, how life rips from one a piece of them selves and there are some things, not even a divine spell can heal. Yet, the Jericko wishes for us all to be whole and in time, one discovers that what was thought of as a rip, was actually a pruning of one life and course through it. Ones life can become better knowing someone and moving on. Myene Shimmerdance is an attractive professor at the Mages Guild. Her strong elven features in no way suggest one of her parents would be anything other then an elf themselves. She has shown to Thar to be a lovely and wise individual, as she gets over being star struck in the priests presence. A very proper guest to take the to the Witherspoons dinner party.
ooc: We can blow through a quick week and head up into the election, but if there is anything you would like for your characters to do, please tell us the story and I will respond as needed, with your tale.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday August 3rd, 2010 7:29:03 AM
Arm inwardly shakes his head at Marie's news...yet another one lost to the rest of the Wold. He seriously begins to ponder how much longer HE shall stay in the city, as it seems to have increasing amounts of bad memories for him, and he is getting restless as well. Making the best of it, he smiles warmly at Marie and agrees to buy her whatever dress her heart desires, thinking he should get some new clothing for the party as well.
Thar Tuesday August 3rd, 2010 2:47:35 PM
Thar is pleased at the invite to the Witherspoons, and is looking forward to meeting this influential family. The quiet week and successful fundraising cheers him up too, and helps him begin to heal from the emotional departure of his Ruby. His heart was broken, but he knows that this will help him grow stronger. Or as his father used to say, "The best way to get over a girl is to find another one..."
He's intrigued by Myene and decides to start courting her. After all, his luck should run better with a trustworthy elf than those finicky human females. It sounds like she is well thought of by others in the community, and would be an optimal companion. Over the few days before the dinner, he finds every excuse he can to go by her office at the guild or her classroom. When the day gets close for the party, he brings her very expensive flowers and politely asks her to be his dinner date. "I'd be honored if you would accompany me to the Witherspoon's and there's no one I'd rather have by my side at their table. Would you please be my date tomorrow night?"
He also uses some of his wealth to find a tailored outfit for the dinner, and asks his friends for help in finding just the right outfit to wear to a fancy dinner.
He also spends the week sharing his excitement with Arm and Ed. To Arm, says, "I'm glad you've found someone important too my friend. Maybe this is just what you and I need.... Now of course we have to find someone special for Edmund.... Hmmm.... What kind of woman would be a good fit for him...?"
Thar Wednesday August 4th, 2010 10:25:16 AM
Buzz - After yesterday's emails, it sounds like I'm the only one left.... Is it time to put the MO to bed and make a new forum for our new adventure?
Not a weak week. / DM Buzz Wednesday August 4th, 2010 2:15:56 PM
I'm beginning to think so my friend. I will talk with Jerry about it when I have time today. Take a vacation for the rest of this week.
:)
The End / DM Buzz Saturday August 14th, 2010 1:36:02 AM
The carriage carries their guests up to two, large wooden gates, bound with steel reinforcements of Master quality, ornate in the finest of detail. Four guards greet the coach and will take the invitations everyone would have at their disposal. A young looking woman in fine robes inspects each carefully then nods the gates open and waves with a smile to those entering.
Large oak trees rising a hundred feet into the night sky line the long drive way leading up into a well guarded parking area. A fountain operates in the center of the round about. It stands twenty feet tall and is a statue of a man, kneeling down to get a drink of the water that swirls around the basin, overflowing in a very even patterns down five feet to a second basin. Small jets around the rim of the second basin spurts a solid stream of water onto the third and final basin, it's reservoir. The brick which make up the drive ways are patterned nicely to resemble an monarch style cut on a precious stone.
The carriage stops and the doors are opened by young men dressed well and groomed as would be proper. The scene of their home is elegant to the extreme. It would be hard to tell looking up at the massive complex, which resembles both a fortress and a mansion. Many light spells illuminate the area, leaving no place for a shadow to exist. The guards are all dressed tuxedo's and hats, but they also have their face covered by a white cloth, with just their eyes showing. Fifteen men or what are taken as men can be seen to be in the vicinity of the coach, to ensure the groups and their guests, safety.
Walking up a very wide set of stairs to the main entrance allows everyone time to take in the potted plants that lead up to the foyer, finally to two magnificently decorated doors, wide open. Standing there is a butler with a tray of drinks, waiting for the guests. The inside is palatial as many works of art line the walls and sit meticulously in alcoves. Chandeliers line the main hall where it is said, King Claudia regularly attended balls put on by the father of Miss Witherspoon, who's family owns the estate and wealth of the family. Mr. Witherspoon is not at all broke however. He runs the military for Plateau City and the surrounding area and knows a thing or two about getting what he wants, even if it is a beautiful woman way out of his social standards.
The dining room has a four man orchestra playing very nice music while everyone gets to know each other better. It is good to know that these people are some what down to earth and seem to take an interest in the plights of others. The General does like to hear himself talk some times and will bring in the relevance of the need for law in most conversations, but, it is the hostess that is almost unnerving in her observations of her guests. Without being rude or boorish, she gauges everyone and even sometimes, that same gaze rests on her husband.
Then, the evening is complete and the night belongs to the group. The generosity of the couple leaves everyone full of food and beverage. Another night in Plateau City.
The election comes and in the end, the thought of a single leader is shut down and Caal will continue to lead the city on a path of a council, continuing it's current government without interruption.
Many opportunities are presented to the Mithril Order and there comes a time, when it is realized, their ways must part. For awhile, Edmund stay in the city, taking on crucial jobs for the mages guild. His expertise in many fields saves the lives of those naive in the ways of evocation, but after awhile, he too will move forward to many things. Arm and Marie leave a note one morning. She is leaving the traveling troup and he is going on a wild fling with her. Where their journeys take them will be a wonderful love story that may some day be told.
Now as for Thar. When the election is over, Sturtevant approaches the cleric and thanks him for all he has done for the city. "It is people like you that help create magic in this world. Although your soul is not pure, you do your best for good and now that I am out of work, I have a business proposition for you."
It is deep into the night when you are to meet the mayor emeritus. Quite a ways from town, it is quite an odd place, a wide open field surrounded by hills. A perfect place for an ambush really. It is then a gargantuan creature comes flying in low across the horizon suddenly lands in the field. It is of a large reptilian form and in the light of the twin moons, it is of a metallic color. It's form shifts to that of Sturtevant as he approaches. It is then that Thar gets to know the Gold Dragon that almost became king of the greatest kingdom in the Wold.
Over time, they become good friends. With the need to keep Sturtevant secret, the duo are capable of making money, helping the poor and getting experience all in the name good. Myene is an ever growing part of the clerics life. She is kind to others and considerate to even her pupils. The nice thing about elves would be, they are the best race suited to long distance relation ships. Five or ten years isn't that big a deal to a couple of long lived elves.
The Shanty will now have a connection to the sewers and will be a better place to live at least to some degree. Guards patrol the area unwillingly as, was predicted by some, with prosperity came an increase in crime, but now, mal nutrition is almost extinct in the metropolis.
After a couple of years, Stutevant wants to have a long talk with Thar "I have good news and bad news my friend. A major eruption of chaos is occurring and it is now that I must assume a new form and identity to help out a place that needs help. Now, if you have an itch to adventure, I will take you with me and we can part ways there. You can find a flock of hero's to attach yourself to and fight the good fight against evil, if you are so interested. I am leaving in two days. Say good bye to Myene and meet me in the field where I first showed my true self. If you do not show by dark, I will take that to mean, you are staying here to settle down"
The dragon in human form shakes the elf clerics hand and says, "It has been an honor to be your friend."
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