DM Warren Saturday October 15th, 2016 12:36:09 PM
As soon as the group enters Palance’s office, she stands up and almost yells, “What did you do in Sandrill Crossing?!?” Before the group really has a chance to provide much of an answer, she sits down in a huff. She continues, “This is not what we need right now. We are trying to rebuild this place, and this is not helping at all.”
After stopping to compose herself, she asks again for the group to explain what happened outside Sandrill Crossing.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Saturday October 15th, 2016 1:27:47 PM
"We dispatched what we have learned to be a kamarupa per the High Priest of Gargul we talked to.in Wedding City. It was terrorizing that village we told you about. What is going on now?" Anna asks
Prudence Gundle Saturday October 15th, 2016 3:00:23 PM
"Well, the kamarupa was later. At Cove," Pru says. glancing at Anna. "Sandrill Crossing was where we stopped at that inn." Pru frowns, trying to remember. "We overheard a conversation. A group of men were headed to Cove, which was where we were heading. The men looked like bandits, so we decided to follow them. But we stumbled into an ambush that they set. There was a fight, and we won. But the fight wasn't in Sandrill Crossing; it was a ways on, in the woods. Nothing happened in Sandrill Crossing itself. That I know of." She looks to her Fist-mates for corroboration.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Saturday October 15th, 2016 10:45:13 PM
Tinker nods at Prudence's version. They didn't do anything in the village. "And the team we fought ambushed us and was joining the bandits at the Cove." The dwarf is respectful but also not at attention. They were supposed to be independent thinkers and not parade ground recruits after all.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Saturday October 15th, 2016 11:51:07 PM "Hmmm..." Nikolai utters quietly, then speaks, [b]"A group of armed men spoke loud enough for us to hear, on purpose, to goad us into following them. Since we were wearing our uniforms, they concluded that we were heading to Cove and since they were too, they planned an ambush. Unfortunately for them, we whooped them and caught their leader. He's the one that had the magical chain that lowered the water to get us into the underwater cave. However, not knowing really what to do with him, we left him in Sandrill Crossing for trial for banditry.
On the other hand, nothing seemed amiss as we passed back through the place on our way home. Whatever happened there must have happened after that.
It is hard to think we actually did anything since we were only there a few hours at best. We stopped at a tavern, had something to eat, left to follow the bandits, returned with their leader, and that's it."[/b}
Nikolai remains at attention the whole time.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Sunday October 16th, 2016 4:20:12 PM
"I spoke of the kamarupa as the latest scuttlebutt about Sandrill Crossing is regarding a witch found dead near there. I assumed that the dead witch and the commander's question were related. Maybe I was too hasty." Anna clarifies
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Monday October 17th, 2016 10:26:05 PM
"Maybe the Commander would be so kind as to fill us in, since it seems as though what we did, and what she thinks we did are in fact two separate things."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Monday October 17th, 2016 10:55:11 PM "Yes, Commander, it would help us a lot by telling us what you've heard and why it should be linked to us."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Monday October 17th, 2016 11:30:16 PM
Anna waits to hear what the commander has to say at parade rest
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Tuesday October 18th, 2016 7:13:55 AM
Like a good soldier, Michael remains quiet and catalogs his sins at his commander's outburst. But since his version of events matches the tales told from his mates, he figures they did nothing wrong. A thought occurs to him. and he speaks.
Ma'am, We know that the sons of Neutronis were ramroding the situation at Cove, maybe they are out causing problems in the country and using their Fist Uniforms to shift the blame over on us.
DM Warren Tuesday October 18th, 2016 10:48:39 AM whew, off the plane and have slept - will double post today, since this is pretty short.
Constance listens intently to each explanation in turn, but when Nikolai speaks, she focuses her gaze more intently on him, seemingly trying to catch him in a lie. She requests confirmation of his statements from the others, and seems a bit conflicted.
Now, I want you all to consider this very carefully. Is Agent Komonov fit to be your Thumb? Has he appeared to lack the control necessary to lead this unit?
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday October 18th, 2016 11:42:25 AM
At first Nikolai is shocked at the question. He firmly takes hold of his monk training in mind control of emotions and says nothing. The memories of the day he was chosen to be the Fist Thumb came flashing back and that was the thing that kept him cool and collected. He didn't volunteer to take command, it was given him by their sergeants. They all were asked theoretical situation questions in private and the sergeants weighed each answer and chose the Thumb that way and nothing was said about it being permanent as Nikolai remembers it.
So he waits, keeping his eyes looking straight ahead. Oddly enough, it didn't seem proper to put the Fist in such an awkward position right there in front of everyone. Would have been best to approach each one in private and if a change was deemed necessary, come up with some 'official' reason and just order the change. He tries to keep his thoughts from wandering what could have happened and focus on the moment.
Oh well...
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Tuesday October 18th, 2016 1:31:29 PM
Michael is stunned, his composure drops and his Jaw hits the floor. Memories of Nikolai lying broken and bloodied in the dirt, memories of frustration at the lack of battlefield control, a vision of Nikolai listening to everyone's opinions and using that info to make a decision, without it becoming a democracy. His calm demeanour. it alll becomes a blur in his mind swirling together into a distillation of....
Ma'am, I've had good leaders and poor leaders, smart, stupid, lazy and active. Nikolai has never asked us to do something that he wasn't prepared to do himself. That's why he could order me to charge a Frost Giant with a toothpick and I'd do it... his instincts are sound more often than not, and when he gets something wrong he acknowledges it and gets it corrected. I was trying to think of something he's not very good at and the only thing I could think of is that he don't control the battlefield real well. but when you think about it, nobody controls the battlefield...so that's a non-issue. I guess the best thing I can say is this. Some units are all about the leader, but with ours, at least to me...we are a unit...we are tight we fight well together and we aren't afraid to think outside the box, it's because of Nikolai that we do that. He is probably one of the best small unit commanders in the Fist. If anything I think he needs to be fast-tracked to flag rank...but if you are thinking of relieving him for cause...I think you are on the wrong track
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Tuesday October 18th, 2016 2:59:23 PM
"Having come recently to this unit, I don't have the history that most of the rest have. However, from what I've experienced so far Nikolai seems to be a reasonable leader. He listens to us and takes our feedback when we are developing plans. He also considers our individual Strengths and Weaknesses. He isn't afraid to lead from the front when needed and knows when to step back when his own skills aren't suited to the task at hand. I am proud to serve with Nikolai as my Thumb" Anna says
Prudence Gundle Tuesday October 18th, 2016 6:03:53 PM
"Of course he's fit!" Pru says indignantly. "And he's really smart, and he's a really good fighter, too!"
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday October 18th, 2016 7:15:31 PM
It takes a moment for Tinker to believe that he actually heard the question. Michael's indignation and the others help him to get his mind working again. "He is fit", Tinker states with finality, but the normally taciturn dwarf isn't done. "Tactically sound, strategically aware of things I don't see until it has already happened. He is able to keep our mission, the capabllities of his team, and the repercussions of actions on the populace in his mind all at once. And he is an unwavering servant of the Fist."
And he stands as if daring anyone else to say differently.
DM Warren Tuesday October 18th, 2016 10:10:45 PM
Constance looks grave as she listens to the responses of each Agent in turn. When they are done again, she sits for a moment, considering everything that has been said.
Sense motive DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { Constance seems conflicted, like she knows that their words are true and she has no cause to doubt them or Nikolai, but has a greater duty to hold to. }
"Thank you for your candor. However, I have received a writ for Nikolai to appear in Sandrill Crossing. He has been accused of murder of Gerard, who you mentioned in your written report."
She shows them a paper that says that Nikolai is to appear before Donnegal, a justice in Sandrill Crossing.
"Because of this, I must relive you of your command and suspend your status within the Mailed Fist, until such time as this issue is resolved. One of you will need to fill the void, and take responsibility to ensure that Nikolai is escorted to the justice."
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Tuesday October 18th, 2016 10:11:02 PM
"He is able, competent and intelligent. He is more fit for command than most." Trayvin ponders the Commander's question. It seemed as though she was leading up to something, and he had a bad feeling about it. "As for control, he has our loyalty which more control than many commanders have. We are not a typical structured unit, and we have latitude to act, but orders are still orders, and they are followed."
Trayvin couldn't shake the bad feeling. He had an idea where this might be going, and he didn't like it.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday October 18th, 2016 10:27:03 PM
"Well, as far as we know, Gerard is still alive," Pru says. "We turned him over to the authorities in Squatting Crossing. Did the Sandrill Crossing folks think to ask there?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday October 18th, 2016 11:43:13 PM "I'm fine with stepping down. We'll resolve this case and prove our honor. When we left Gerard at the one-cell jail in Squatting Crossing, the jailer had said that a squad from Ailithmar was due in a couple of days. So he was alive and well when we left Squatting Crossing. That jailer is our witness, unless he's shown up dead too. Looks like a trip to Squatting on our way to Sandrill. Weird thing is, none of the bandits, Gerard included, are from there, complete strangers, so why would Sandrill care? Isn't it just one less bandit? I know it sounds callous, but look what he was up to. How many deaths did we prevent by capturing him? Why go to the pains to let him have a trial and then murder him? Was he murdered in his cell or did he somehow get off from the charge of banditry? There's a lot that Sandrill Crossing left unexplained, and sounds very suspicious. Could be a trap.
In the meantime, we'll need a new Thumb. Commander, how do you want to do this? Choose one yourself of have the Fist do the choosing?"
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Wednesday October 19th, 2016 12:49:25 AM
"I wonder if they think Gerard is dead because I turned into him and we had that skirmish with the other prisoner and then I had to revert back to my normal form. Maybe some of the villagers weren't in on my ruse and they thought Gerard died?" Anna muses
DM Warren Wednesday October 19th, 2016 5:06:43 PM
Constance does not acknowledge anything that Nikolai has to say, though she looks uncomfortable while doing so.
"If none wish to volunteer, then I will assign your leader. Agents Gundle and Torvalsson have seniority within the Fist, but Prudence stepped ably up to command in the fight against Neutronis. She will have the responsibility for leading the Agents for the time being, and she will be personally held responsible if Nikolai is not delivered Donnegal in Sandrill Crossing for his trial. You are dismissed."
The mood is somber and confused as the Agents and Nikolai leave the Knight Commander's office. They have little time to prepare themselves before the set date for the trial, and even leaving in the morning will necessitate a grueling pace. As they gather supplies for the trip, there is a cautious tap on the door, followed by Thogo entering their common room and saluting.
"Note for you, ma'am." He hands a folded piece of parchment to Pru before dashing out of the room.
Unfolding it reveals a few short words written in Palance's recognizable scrawl, though it is unsigned. The author writes that there is no doubt in the Fist that Nikolai is fit to lead and innocent of this crime, but they cannot afford any sign of flouting the law, and they have to undergo this trial to justify his actions and prove his innocence.
all receive 1000 xp
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday October 19th, 2016 8:12:17 PM
Tinker frowns but a twinkle in his eyes sees Captain Palance's brilliance. "We are escorting Nikolai to the Justice. Sounds like a great opportunity to figure out what in Pantheon's name is going on!"
Tinker will get ready for another trip out.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Wednesday October 19th, 2016 9:25:50 PM
"Maybe there is something else going on that the Commander hopes we will uncover as well. We will have to remain alert, I think there was more going on at that village than we were ever able to discover on our previous trip."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday October 19th, 2016 9:47:18 PM
The contents of the note is passed on to Nikolai but it does not assuage his mood any, really. Commander Constance went from high praise of their work in defeating Neutronis and the new Peace Bargain with Ailithmar and now, even if only on the outside, seems ready to throw him under the ox cart.
'I know she really doesn't want to but didn't say anything about arranging any independent investigation of the matter. Not only that, she didn't even give any details of the accusation. It will be up to US to find all that out one we get there with hardly any time, IF any, to do any investigation of our own, and I'll probably be in jail for all that.'
Once again he suspects a trap orchestrated by the Sons of Neutronis.
He gathers his stuff and makes sure his room is in perfect order before he leaves. He heads to the stables to insure their transport will be ready on time.
Before sunrise he goes to the mess hall and works on one of the best breakfast's he's ever had for it may be the last, then he's ready to move out.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday October 19th, 2016 10:00:44 PM
Pru reminds herself that bursting into tears is not an appropriate response when given command of a Fist. She manages to choke out a "Yes, ma'am" before fleeing the Knight-Commander's office.
"Well, I suppose we have to go to Sandrill Crossing," she says. "Let's get ready to go. And let's have everything spit-and-polish, all right? Uniforms clean and mended, boots polished, and so on. We're not going to slink into that town like we're ashamed of the Fist. We're going to march in proudly, and dare them to break us!"
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Wednesday October 19th, 2016 11:15:44 PM
Michale goes deeply into though. his eyes dart back and forth as he explores scenarios and tests hypothesis, finally he speaks.
This is a trap, We've done a lot of good and royally aggravated a bunch of folks, especially with the whole Neutronis thing, this is a plot to tear the agents apart. I'm guessing we are going to find that the folk we turned Gaston over to are mysteriously gone, and there are probably going to be witnesses who saw Nikolai kill him. We really need to lawyer up, I wonder if there are any lawyers who defend Fist Soldiers? we need to try and track the timeline of his death and show that Nikolai was nowhere near when he died. but we also need to think worst case..what do we do if it's a kangaroo court? I vote we kill everyone...but that's probably not the right thing to do.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Wednesday October 19th, 2016 11:48:48 PM
"I need to buy some scrolls from the catacombs quickly." Anna says.
"I don't want to pull them from the bag."
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday October 20th, 2016 5:51:25 PM
"This is a trap", Tinker agrees. "And we're gonna bust it from the inside since WE are the independent arm of the Fist, right? "
Half-formed plans don't pass the dwarf's lips, instead looking to Prudence for the right direction. "Spit and polish, you got it!", he growls and that night burnishes his equipment to parade ground gloss.
DM Warren Thursday October 20th, 2016 6:31:54 PM
Wild emotions lead to hasty words, but there are some gems that come out of the heap. Someone who knows the laws of the land would be very useful, but who knows where they could find one at such short notice? Perhaps the library would have at least a documentation of the laws of Ailthmar and the surrounding areas.
Pru is a bit overcome, but falls back on her training and assumes command. She won't let the reputation Nikolai has helped build for the Agents and the Fist deteriorate under her watch. Dress uniforms are brought out from storage for the upcoming trial.
Anna does some of her own preparations. Tinker, Traying, and Nikolai all see quickly that they will be some investigating of their own to do, and are preparing themselves for whatever trap may be set for them.
The Agents are efficient, and are soon ready to depart.
feel free to shop and prep
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Thursday October 20th, 2016 9:44:20 PM
Trayvin will stop by the library. He asks the librarians if they have any documents which may prove useful or helpful for their current predicament.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Thursday October 20th, 2016 11:11:51 PM
Nikolai has some ideas but nothing can be determined with any certainty until they get to their destination. He expects the worse and to be immediately thrown in a cell and his equipment stripped from him. Either way, someone is lying about what happened and Anna, mentioning her turning into a Gerard clone alerts him to another possibility.
"Trayvin, we're going to need some help determining who may be lying and who's telling he truth. We'll need several Zone's of Truth spells ready for the trial. Michael and Tinker, one of you can wear my Hat of Disguise when we get close, ride into town and get a feel of what's up and get the story from locals without the worry of being recognized. Your investigations as Mailed Fist members will probably be hampered, so what we can learn as an 'interested bystander' would be very useful. Oh, here I go, pretending to still be the Thumb... sigh."
He momentarily thinks about writing his father but then decides against it. If all goes well, it will make a good story at New Years in the Giggling Ghost. If not, his Fist Mates can pass on the sad news.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Friday October 21st, 2016 12:00:04 AM
Anna departs to the catacombs and then comes back with her scroll supply fully replenished.
"Are you sure you don't want me to scout out what is going on in the town using a disguise?" Anna asks
"I am highly trained in the art of disguise and am decent at bluffing people. If I borrowed Pru's headband I'd be even more efficient at both." Anna says
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Friday October 21st, 2016 1:15:48 AM "Fine with me, but I'm not the Thumb anymore. Pru will have the final word. You and Michael using my hat could do the trick," Nikolai adds.
Prudence Gundle Friday October 21st, 2016 1:32:14 AM
"Nikolai's better at this than me," Pru says. "But let's have Michael and Anna do the reconnaissance. If there's a jail or something, I want to keep Tinker on this side of the bars. If worst comes to worst, he can get people out."
She turns to Nikolai. "When we get to Sandrill Crossing," she says, "let's have you take off your gear and give it to us before you turn yourself in. Very publicly. I think that will make a strong impression--and it means that if we do have to break you out, we'll have your stuff." Pru may be the Thumb in name, but she doesn't feel like one, so she follows that with "How does that sound?"
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+12=22 ; d20+23=31 ; Friday October 21st, 2016 2:41:58 PM
Nikko is wise and Bean Pole has a good plan with keeping Tinker on the outside of bars and access to his lockpicks. Tinker takes a day to get a common set of manacles and engineer how it would work normally but have a hidden catch that would drop the hinge and basically only make it a pair of bracelets. Never know when trick cuffs could come in handy this trip!
Know Engineer 22 Disable Device 31
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Friday October 21st, 2016 11:23:42 PM
"It sounds good Pru. Don't worry. We will follow your lead, and whatever happens, we are all in it together."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Friday October 21st, 2016 11:30:35 PM "Sounds like a good plan, Pru. Leadership is coming to you pretty natural-like," he grins.
DM Warren Saturday October 22nd, 2016 6:14:43 PM
Tinker strikes on a clever idea. If this whole adventuring business doesn't work out, he could always open a magic shop!
Other a small confidence issue, Pru displays every quality they could ask in a leader. A plan is quickly formed and preparations made.
Trayvin finds a book on local ordinances with the help of he librarian. It will make for some good reading on the trip to town.
Anna and Michael coordinate to best figure out how to suss out the feelings of the town.
Everyone is ready to leave in the morning.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Sunday October 23rd, 2016 1:19:28 AM Anna is on board with the plan. "I can either use my disguise kit or I can borrow the hat. I don't want to use my Morphling powers because they only work for a short period of time. I don't know what disguise I should use or what story I should spin as we scout it out. I'm open for suggestions."
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Sunday October 23rd, 2016 6:17:03 PM
A successful trick manacles, Tinker packs them away and doesn't shoenthem to anyone until the group is on the road. "Look what I made", he crows as he demonstrates his trick manacles.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Sunday October 23rd, 2016 8:31:09 PM I guess I'll go in as a begger or ner-do-well and listen around for what I can find. Maybe do a little eavesdropping on the prosecution.
with that in mind Micheal borrows some rags from the stable hands and creates a beggers outfit to wear he puts all of his stuff in his BOH and secrets it somewhere once he gets there. He also looks in the library for any information on lawyers that the fist trusts. he will then craft a letter to the person requesting his presence at the trial.
ooc: sorry guys new job is working 12 to 16 hrs per day and I've been whooped when I get in at night. I'll try to post from my phone
Prudence Gundle Sunday October 23rd, 2016 10:02:16 PM
In the morning, Pru makes sure that everyone on the team has what they need before setting out.
During the journey, she whispers prayers nearly nonstop.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Monday October 24th, 2016 12:17:49 PM
Nikolai distributes all of his non-essential equipment to his team members, keeping what he'll need for combat with him, just in case. "Ideally, we'd wait until any manacles are put on me before inconspicuously switching to those, but that might not be possible. May not even need them, but you are a genius to even think of it," he casually slaps Tinker on the shoulder.
He doesn't hold up much hope of acquiring the services of a lawyer, the Mailed Fist layers being experts in legal matters, not so much on criminal matters, but one can only hope. A military trial is very different than a civil one, but one of the court martial lawyers would work, just as long as he/she is dedicated to the Truth and not intimidated in going along with a Kangaroo trial just for public relations.
He's ready to move out when Pru gives the order.
DM Warren Monday October 24th, 2016 4:11:02 PM
Costumes and plans well underway, though a few details remain to be hammered out on the way. A lawyer did not seem to be available, as there is no one really formally trained in the fist. Court Martials are performed by a Tribunal of senior officers, and a couple of spells usually makes it easy to ascertain the truth.
In short order, they begin their trek to Sandrill Crossing, a feeling of deja vu that is only dulled by the fact that they have had a (hopefully temporary) change in leadership. They are fairly quiet the first day, the reality of their situation sinking in, and most talk revolves around how to solve their predicament.
please give me marching orders, anything you're doing on the way, perception checks, and plans for camping
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+13=26 ; Monday October 24th, 2016 6:56:16 PM
Tinker drives the wagon, as usual. NOT as usual, the wagon is in the middle of the formation and Nikolai is in the back of the wagon. "You are being delivered, Nikko, so you should only defend yourself, not the team, Eh?"
Despite being in the middle, he keeps his eyes on a swivel.
.....
Perception 26
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+14=21 ; Monday October 24th, 2016 9:24:56 PM
Michael scouts ahead, his head on a swivel he stays about 50ft in front of the body of the group.
perception 21
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Monday October 24th, 2016 9:51:52 PM
"Those manacles are pretty nifty Tinker, they may come in useful."
Trayvin reads through the book he got from the library whenever he has time during the trip. "If there is no lawyer available, then we will have to do the best we can without."
Prudence Gundle Monday October 24th, 2016 10:19:14 PM
Pru may be the leader, but she is still a squishy mage with no Perception to speak of. She keeps to the middle of the group, just ahead of the wagon.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 d20+6=8 ; d20+4=13 ; d20+7=8 ; Monday October 24th, 2016 11:35:18 PM
Anna tries to empathize with her mount (Wild Empathy: 8) but doesn't think it will work that well. She rides her mount at rear guard (Ride:13).
She tries to keep an eye out for for anything coming up behind them. (Perception: 8 ;natural 1)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+14=31 ; Monday October 24th, 2016 11:42:01 PM
Used to being up front, it felt weird riding in a wagon, although more comfortable. While Tinker keeps his eyes on the front half, he keeps vigilant on the back half, his new bow ready with knocked arrow.
Perc +14 = 31 (33 if in forest)
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Tuesday October 25th, 2016 9:44:19 PM
Trayvin prays for guidance from the Gods of the Wold. Maybe one of them will provide some inspiration for the trials ahead.
Prudence Gundle d20=3 ; Tuesday October 25th, 2016 10:49:13 PM
Pru tries to be on alert, but she is far too worried. [Perception 3]
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Tuesday October 25th, 2016 11:06:27 PM
Michael thinks to himself. it's quiet...too quiet.... He loosens his rapier in it's scabbard and gets a tangle foot bag ready to throw.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 d20+9=22 ; Tuesday October 25th, 2016 11:21:04 PM
Anna looks for a suitable defensible spot for a campsite as it starts to get towards the end of the day. (Survival: 22)
She starts collecting wood for a potential fire and asks Pru, "Should we get a fire going?"
DM Warren Tuesday October 25th, 2016 11:45:50 PM
If the feeling of traveling in the middle was strange, then coming into town being held on a wagon, even if unofficial, is even stranger. And this is only the first town on a 3 town tour of the road. The Agents find an Inn and bed down. In the morning, they are ready to go again to the next town of down the road. That would be the one full of churches, so perhaps Pru will be a bit more comfortable there.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday October 26th, 2016 12:55:08 AM
After a while, Nikolai starts to get used to the wagon and realizes there are so pros to riding in a wagon instead of upon a hard bony horse.
Despite what lies ahead for him, he sleeps well, but as usual takes a shift for watch duty. They could have been followed. You never know.
DM Warren Wednesday October 26th, 2016 6:47:57 PM
The next couple of days pass like the first, and soon enough, they are ready to make the final approach to Sandrill Crossing.
Michael and Anna assemble their disguises and prepare to go scouting to see what the situation is like in town. The others stay behind in the woods and wait on their report.
Michael and Anna - disguise, perception, and any other checks you may find relevant.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+2=5 ; d20+13=23 ; Wednesday October 26th, 2016 8:09:27 PM
Tinker helps make camp, not really helping too much other than keeping a sharp eye out! ... Survival-5 Perception-23
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) d20+2=14 ; d20+4=22 ; Wednesday October 26th, 2016 9:25:06 PM
survival 14, perception 22
Trayvin keeps watch for anything unusual. He tries not to make too much noise while doing so.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+14=21 ; d20+5=23 ; d20+7=16 ; Wednesday October 26th, 2016 9:39:53 PM
Michael makes a wide circle around town and comes in on foot from the opposite side. he goes by the local bar and sets up. he enters the bar purchases a beer with some copper coins, nurses is like its ambrosia, and sets up in a corner. he works hard to be a non person a hole in the air, empty rags. he listens, and once sure that he is forgotten, he will then get closer to persons of interest and listen. if he finds anything interesting he will tack them, and start developing plans to infiltrate where they are staying.
perception 21 disguise 23 perform 16
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 d20+16=32 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+9=17 ; Wednesday October 26th, 2016 11:25:15 PM
If Pru and Nikolai are allowing Anna will ask to borrow Pru's headband and Nikolai's hat.
Anna works her new composite bow into her disguise and poses as a wandering huntress.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday October 26th, 2016 11:49:18 PM
"Um...well, my spells aren't as good without it," Pru says of the headband. "But I guess I won't need them. Anyway, I hope I won't need them."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+13=20 ; d20+14=33 ; Thursday October 27th, 2016 1:06:26 AM
Nikolai hands over his magic hat to Anna and wishes the scouts the best of luck. Once they've left, he looks for a suitable site where they can wait for the scouts' return and be hidden as well.
Survival +13 = 20 Perception +14 = 33
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Thursday October 27th, 2016 10:01:10 PM
Anna thanks both Pru and Nikolai for letting them borrow their items. "Don't worry, I will return both as soon as I get back. Thank you both. I'll completely blend in be able to lie really well. I should be able to get really good intel."
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Thursday October 27th, 2016 10:22:29 PM
"Be careful." Trayvin urges Michael and Anna to be cautious with their surveillance. "There is much unknown here, and we are likely expected."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Thursday October 27th, 2016 10:25:44 PM
checking in. Michael plays the down on his luck beggar and listens in the bar for scuttlebutt.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Thursday October 27th, 2016 11:06:00 PM
OOC: Checking in. Shane, your hpts aren't up to max in your header.
Prudence Gundle Friday October 28th, 2016 12:25:41 AM
Pru tries to be calm as she waits for the scouts to return from their mission.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday October 28th, 2016 7:49:15 AM
Tinker is calm as he awaits the return of the scouts. Of course, he is naturally stoic, has great confidence in the skills of his friends, and isn't in charge (which helps tremendously!).
DM Warren d20+34=54 ; Friday October 28th, 2016 10:44:46 AM
Between them, there are enough survival skills to set up a campsite a little bit off the road, where they should remain hidden from any casual passersby. Nikolai and Pru feel a little less prepared with some of their magic borrowed, but it is for the good of the group, after all.
Michael works his way around town, quietly through the fields, until he ends up in one of the taverns in town. He's met with a few angry looks when the proprietors see him in his rags, but the sight of coin and the lack of stench mollifies them, and he sits back to nurse his beer.
Anna the Huntress sweeps into the tavern a short while later with a bit of a better reception. Adventuring types always have coin to spend.
The general buzz of conversation involves normal things for countryfolk - the harvest, a daughter's wedding, and surprisingly, one man mentions that his youngest son has reached 18 summers and wants to go off and join the Mailed Fist!
Some voices seem to think that's a fine idea, especially for a younger son that won't be inheriting any land. But one voice pipes up in the background. "The Fist are just a lot of thieves and murderers! You'll see when we get that fella here for his trial!"
There are some murmurs, both for and against this stance, but when Anna and Michael look around for the source of this accusation, there is no one to be found.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP48/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+14=23 ; d20+2=17 ; Friday October 28th, 2016 1:07:22 PM Strange thinks Michael, he was sure he accounted for everyone. He tries to remember the tenor of the voice and where it came from, but it seems it was beyond him. He starts to analyze the makeup of the people in the bar. Taking note of the ones talking of mundane things, the harvest, the wedding, the 18 year old fist aspiring boy, and local gossip. He notes their clothes, mannerisms and accents. He then tries to pick out the ones that stand out from the norm, either by clothes, bearing, or different topics of conversation. By eliminating the median folk, he hopes to discover the outliers
Perception 23 Int 17
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Friday October 28th, 2016 4:57:16 PM
Header updated
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Friday October 28th, 2016 9:09:01 PM
Waiting. This was the tough part, almost as bad as the calm before a battle. Trayvin keeps himself occupied by reading through the book the librarians lent him some more. He wonders if this whole mess has anything to do with fallout from the battle with Neutronis.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday October 28th, 2016 9:43:50 PM
Chop some wood. Break kindling with bare hands. Create tinder by shaving a stick. Tinker is pretty good at making a fire. Still needs a little work in making it smokeless...
Prudence Gundle Saturday October 29th, 2016 6:11:52 PM
Pru paces the campsite restlessly, and decides she doesn't like being in charge.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Sunday October 30th, 2016 12:26:07 AM
Michael keeps trying to find the ringer in the crowd. if he fails he goes outside and hangs around the courthouse.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 d20+19=27 ; d100=90 ; d20+7=11 ; Sunday October 30th, 2016 7:51:47 PM
Anna looks for some place with privacy and then pulls a 2nd level wizard scroll of see invisibility at caster level 3rd from her bag of tricks and attempts to cast it.
She successfully casts the scroll (27 vs UMD of 23, 90 vs 25 to beat spell failure)
She then returns to the bar looking for a potential invisible instigator (30 min of see invisibility)
(Perception 11)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+13=28 ; d20+14=24 ; Monday October 31st, 2016 11:20:58 AM
Nikolai spends his time keeping watch on the approaches to their location. If he can see the road as well, he takes note of who's passing by.
Hiding to watch the approaches: Stealth +13 (15 in forest) = 28 or 30 (forest) Perception +14 = 24
DM Warren Monday October 31st, 2016 12:32:47 PM
Neither Michael nor Anna can find a ringer or invisible instigator in the crowd.
Outside, the closest thing Michael can find to a courthouse is the town hall, but he reasons that any trial will take place there.
When scouting information about the magistrate, all seem to think he is a decent enough fellow, well versed in local laws and ordinance, and there is much curiosity about a trial taking place in their little town. There doesn't seem to be any talk of the supposed victim though, only talk about whether or not the Fist Captain is guilty.
Out in the woods, the rest of the Fist practices their survival skills and try to be patient while waiting word from their scouts.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday October 31st, 2016 8:09:34 PM
Tinker helps scour the dinner pot and takes his turn at Watch.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 d20+7=15 ; Monday October 31st, 2016 8:26:53 PM
Anna spends the entire 30 minutes looking for the voice they could not pin down. (Perception: 15)
When time is up she sees what she can find by asking around about the victim of the Fist captain's supposed crime.
She looks for 3 types of people, those who may have prestige in the community, those who seem to know the gossip and anyone who looks like an entertainer.
If she finds any of them she will treat them to a drink and remark that the upcoming trial seems to be a big deal and she would like to know what exactly went down.
If she gets the feeling she won't get anymore help from the people she will bid them ado and ask around either in what passes for a market or the town hall.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+7=12 ; d20+14=27 ; Monday October 31st, 2016 8:53:39 PM
Michael sits on the street corner and bums folk for money, if any stop to give him alms he asks them in an off hand and slightly drunk way what the big deal is with the fist and all is. He is careful to ask open ended questions, look folk in the eye and not interject when they are talking.
Perform 12 perception 27
Prudence Gundle Monday October 31st, 2016 10:08:08 PM
Pru tries to say a few prayers, but for once, the thought of the gods does not comfort her.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Monday October 31st, 2016 10:23:25 PM
Hearing the prayers, Trayvin decides to join Pru. "Sometimes they answer and sometimes not. What most common people do not know, is that they have given us the gift of being able to answer our own prayers. All we need to do is have faith in our own abilities."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+13=21 ; Tuesday November 1st, 2016 12:43:04 AM "Hmpf...' Nikolai thinks. 'I believe in the gods,' remembering his own meeting, in a way.'But I don't trust the Good always defeating the Evil of others.'
He continues to keep vigilant.
Hiding to watch the approaches: Stealth +13 (15 in forest) = 21 or 23 (forest) Perception +14 = 24
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+14=30 ; Tuesday November 1st, 2016 12:47:50 AM
Perception +14 = 30
OOC; I accidentally hit the submit before updating the perception roll.
DM Warren Tuesday November 1st, 2016 10:42:30 AM
Anna's search is fruitless, as the owner of the voice appears to be long gone. The information available from the townsfolk is better though. No one seemed to really know or care about Gerard, but they certainly can't have people running through and murdering folks. They seem more concerned about the general safety of the townsfolk, and want the Fist to answer to whatever justice is deemed appropriate.
Michael gets much the same on the street corner. Many eyes just pass over him, or hurry away at the appearance of drunkenness. However, one man who seems to have left the tavern himself is a bit more chatty. He doesn't have anything against the Fist, but the truth has to be gotten out, and if they did murder someone, then justice must be done.
Overall, they get the feeling that the townsfolk don't really know the details of what Nikolai is being accused of, which leaves Michael and Anna wondering where the accusation could have come from, if not anyone here. The day is getting on though, and they'll have to get back to the others soon to make their appointment with the Magister.
Things are more introspective, and a bit boring even, back at camp. Nikolai remains ever vigilant, but sees no sign of anyone else traveling through the woods. There are a few game trails, and he is so still that some deer pass him by without noticing him.
Tinker keeps a watchful eye out as always, and Pru and Trayvin discuss thoughts of the Gods and their purpose.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+13=32 ; Tuesday November 1st, 2016 5:43:38 PM
Tinker keeps a sharp eye out.
Perception. 32
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday November 1st, 2016 9:05:09 PM
Nikolai's monk mental control training comes in handy as his patience is tried. 'I hope they are alright. I wonder what's taking them so long?'
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Tuesday November 1st, 2016 9:26:06 PM
Trayvin ponders the magic available to him and whether any of it will be useful or even allowed during the trial.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday November 1st, 2016 10:09:46 PM
"Well," Pru says. "I suppose we would only need Pantheon's help, though I would appreciate it if Alemi could see his way clear to settling my stomach a little." She smiles wanly.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/19 vs AOO: 27/18/19- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Tuesday November 1st, 2016 11:11:25 PM
Anna shrugs and decides it is time to head back. She has not really gotten much from the population except that people are concerned for their safety, no one knows much about Gerard and there was that mysterious agitator but she couldn't seem to pin him down.
She heads back to camp to share what she has learned with the rest of her companions making sure to return the hat and headband as soon as she is back.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Wednesday November 2nd, 2016 11:47:13 AM
What information that could be gathered has been gathered, at least all that could be gathered in a day. If he had weeks and months to set up cells, recruit agents, bribe officials, he could do more, but as always time is not on his side. Michael leaves town directly for the camp. Once there he doffs his rags, cleans up and puts on his Mailed fist Scout leathers. He also tells the group what he found out.
It was odd, most folk had no idea why the fist was on trial, or that anything was amiss. There was a voice in the bar that cried out against the fist, but I could not find its source. I think we are being set up for an ambush I think there are hidden agents who have infiltrated the town and are setting us up. I have no empirical proof of that, but it's a strong gut feeling.
DM Warren - MAP 6d6=20 ; d4=1 ; Wednesday November 2nd, 2016 3:47:55 PM
Michael and Anna are on their way back, chatting amongst themselves to see what information they were able to gather. When they are almost back, they hear quite the ruckus from the underbrush and perceive an odd smell, as of vegetation burning.
Back in the camp, many were distracted, hoping Michael and Anna hadn't been caught, and wondering what preparation would do the most good for the upcoming trial. Not one dwarf though.
Tinker was just thinking he could begin to relax when he notices some scurrying through the underbrush. Small animals are running past him, scared witless it would seem. He looks off in the other direction and almost misses it, but then notices a pattern of green that doesn't quite fit into the foliage.
Tinker: Highlight to display spoiler: {off in the trees is a large green dragon! You have one standard action before it unleashes its breath weapon. Please post your action before and then you have your full turn.}
He has little time to react before a spray of acid erupts from the treeline, giving Pru, Nikolai, Tinker, and Trayvin a most unwelcome bath!
20 Acid Damage - DC17 Reflex for half, all but Tinker are flatfooted. Anna and Michael are approx 150 ft away. Map in header.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+11=18 ; d20+11=24 ; d10+3=7 ; Wednesday November 2nd, 2016 7:28:25 PM
"Hem, what?", begins Tinker and then the dwarf shouts, "Dragon!"
He leaps up from the wagon and pulls his crossbow while going fully defensive.
Then the cloud of acid pours over the encampment. Tinker uses the wagon to dodge and avoid the breath of acid, and he weaves back into sight to shoot at the dragon with a single careful squeeze of the trigger.
"By my ancestors", he mumbles into his beard, "a real live dragon!"
.... Free action. Full defensive and draw weapon as free action
Reflex 18 w Evasion
Shot. AC 24. Dam 7
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+11=31 ; d20+16=30 ; Wednesday November 2nd, 2016 9:34:41 PM Flat-footed: looses his DEX bonus to AC and cannot make AoO. Basically.
Spells in effect: Mage Armor.
Nikolai's attention was on the road in the town's direction, whilst the attack came from the road from the opposite direction. Tinker's holler brings him around to face a wash of acid.
DMG 20: DC17 Refl for half
Refl +11 w/ Evasion = 31 w/ evasion = no damage and there goes my N20.
He sidesteps behind a tree just in time to avoid the acid bath casts his Magic Fang spell to affect his right hand.
Peeking around the tree to try to spot the dragon he instinctively yells, "Take cover behind a tree and force it into to come to us. It won't have much maneuverability in these trees!" He suddenly remembers he's not in command anymore. "Sorry Pru!" he adds.
Perception + 16 (Forest Fav Terr) = 30 looking for the dragon.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 18 Tch 17 Ffted 15 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday November 2nd, 2016 9:37:29 PM
Nikolai addendum: He takes a 5' step away from the road.
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 42/62} d20+8=10 ; Wednesday November 2nd, 2016 10:54:36 PM
Pru is unable to get out of the way of the caustic spray, and lets out a little cry as her skin sizzles.
"It's fine!" she calls. "Do what Nikolai says!" Dodging behind a tree, she mutters, "yeah, like I know what I'm doing."
She casts Haste on everybody but Michael and Anna, who are out of range.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 16/12/13 vs AOO: 20/16/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 18/22 vs trip Wednesday November 2nd, 2016 11:48:03 PM
"Michael, hop on my back and hang on." Anna calls out, "I'm gonna turn into something and carry us closer."
(OOC: assuming compliance I put us 100 feet out on the map)
Anna waits for Michael and then turns into a massive and majestic elk standing fully the height of a human at its shoulder,with antlers stretching over ten feet across.
DM Warren - MAP d20+15=24 ; 2d6+7=13 ; Thursday November 3rd, 2016 4:45:12 PM
Knowledge Arcana DC 23: Highlight to display spoiler: {A very young or older green dragon can move through any sort of foliage at full speed without taking damage or suffering impairment. Areas of foliage that have been magically manipulated affect it normally.}
Tinker, as always, uses himself as an obstacle between his friends and danger. Neatly avoiding the acid bath, he sinks a well placed bolt into the dragon's shoulder.
Nikolai's instincts kick in and he also manages to avoid the acid bath. His leadership instincts also take over and he begins to command his unit. Pru doesn't seem to mind. Nikolai is still the leader except in public right now. She invigorates everyone with arcane speed and ducks behind a tree.
Anna, hearing the commotion, shifts herself into a fabulous four legged beast and takes Michael up onto her back, ready to charge into the fray.
Seeing what looks like an easy target, the Dragon slides through the underbrush towards Tinker.
“I am the mighty Slartanus! You shall bow to me this day or die!” His neck shoots out and he chomps onto Tinker. 13 damage
Slartanus - 7dmg
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 78 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+9=16 ; d20+9=22 ; d20+4=21 ; d8+4=12 ; d8+4=9 ; Thursday November 3rd, 2016 6:13:20 PM
The dragon slithers up and draws blood on Tiinker, who winces in pain. Slartanus, huh? The dwarf really doesn't know why there is suddenly here and so close to a town, but he knows what a hero should do!
He drops his crossbow and draws his urgrosh while taking a single step. "You have made a mistake, oh mighty dragon, by coming close with our sorceress' magic supporting us. You will know the fury of a dwarf!"
Although maybe Tinker is too furious, for his axe is not as accurate as his crossbow. ....
AC 16, 22, 21. Damage. 12, 9
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+15=32 ; d8+4=10 ; d6=4 ; Thursday November 3rd, 2016 7:41:18 PM
Spells in effect: Mage Armor (from Pru) Haste (from Pru): move +30', +1 att, +1 dodge, +1 Ref saves, +1 att w/ Full attack action Magic Fang 10/10, +1 att/dmg w/ natural weapon
Nikolai judges the dragon's reach with it's neck and claw then bolts from the trees to circle around to get a flanking attack. Weary of a the tail swipe, he moves in to deliver a punch.
Move 1 70' feet, flanking move. AC vs AoO (Mobility) +4 = 27 Standard - Right hand punch: Attack +11 +1(M.Fg) +1 haste, +2 flanking (if applc) = 32 dmg = 1d8+3 +1M.Fg, +1d6 (Team Feat) = 10 + 4 = 14
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+17=32 ; d20+17=18 ; d20+13=19 ; d20+13=30 ; d20+13=32 ; d4+2=6 ; 4d6=10 ; d4+2=4 ; d4+2=3 ; d4=1 ; 4d6=17 ; Thursday November 3rd, 2016 8:29:05 PM
michael grabs onto Anna without even a thought, and is soon rushing towards the dragon faster than he has ever moved. he draws his rapier and short sword out of his pack and tells Anna to get him in close and flank him against Tinker or Nikolai.
if they make it he jumps down and runs his blades into it.
Acrobatics 32 18 Avoid AOO and jump down.
To Hit AC 19 and 30(CRIT! 32 confirmed!
1d4+2=6 short sword, +10 sneak attack. =16 1d4+2=3 rapier 1 crit. +17 sneak attack =21 total 37 points.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 50/70(BrianZ) d20+3=7 ; Thursday November 3rd, 2016 10:08:00 PM
reflex save = 7
Trayvin grunts from the pain of the acid. "Why do they always want you to bow? And then they wonder why people attack them."
Trayvin draws his weapon and casts prayer on those nearby.(It should affect everyone except Anna and Michael) He moves in front of Pru and sets up a flanking position with Nikolai.
Active Effects:haste prayer
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 42/62} d20+10=29 ; d20+10=17 ; d20+8=22 ; d4=4 ; Thursday November 3rd, 2016 10:28:26 PM
"I'm afraid hiding behind a tree isn't going to be much use," Pru calls. "He can pretty much go right through them." [Knowledge Arcana 29]
Pru maneuvers to get a better angle, then casts her new spell. She's interested to see how it might work.
[Cast Enervation. Caster Level check of 17, in case it has SR. Hit Touch AC 22. If it hits, the dragon takes 4 negative levels. Pru has the Precise Shot feat.]
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 14/10/11 vs AOO: 18/12/15- HP 52/52-- CMD 18/22 vs trip d20-13=4 ; d20+13=28 ; 2d6+5=10 ; Thursday November 3rd, 2016 11:19:00 PM
Anna charges the distance to the dragon lowering her antlers which also puts Michael in the position he wants to be in as he can easily jump off and gain flanking.
(28 vs AC : 10 piercing damage)
Active Effects: Charge : +2 to hit / -2 AC Beast shape 2 [form of megaloceros] - 49 rounds 10 foot space, 5 foot reach, 50 foot base speed, low-light vision, scent, gore+11(2d6+5), 2 hooves+6(1d4+2), +4 CMD vs trip +4 Str , –2 Dex, +4 nat armor, -1 AC, -1 Attack, -4 stealth, -2 fly, +1 CMB/CMD
DM Warren - MAP d20+13=32 ; d20+13=21 ; 2d6+7=13 ; Friday November 4th, 2016 4:50:12 PM
What? It's just a dragon. Tinker isn't impressed, and he wades in and chops away, scoring two good hits.
Nikolai tries to sneak around the back, but despite his agility, Slartanus is able to deliver a powerful bite to him as well. 13 damage
Michael almost flies off of Anna's back, and though his sword bounces off of the armor tough scales, the keen point of the rapier makes its way into a vulnerable spot and causes the dragon to hiss in pain.
Anna's followup goring also finds its mark, leaving several puncture wounds in the hide of Slartanus.
Still, the dragon might be willing to shrug off all of this physical pain, but for a crackling ray of dark energy that crawls up and down his spine. The dragon looks around at the agents in a panic before bounding straight up into the air and catching itself on the air currents.
You get off easy this day! You have not seen the last of the mighty Slartanus!
His voice fades as he zooms off towards the coast. There is nothing left of him here but a few drops of blood.
Sense Motive DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Despite his words, there was a large amount of bravado, and you can tell that he considered himself much mightier than he actually was. He was not ready to meet that level of resistance. }
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 61/70(BrianZ) d6=3 ; d6=2 ; d6=3 ; d6=3 ; Friday November 4th, 2016 9:14:33 PM
Trayvin stares as the dragon flies away. "Well that was.....unexpected. You'd think with all that bluster he would have stuck it out a bit longer."
"Anyway, gather round, I will heal up some of the wounds."
Actions: Trayvin channels energy for everyone who gathers near enough to benefit from it. channel energy = 11hp healed.
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 53/62} Friday November 4th, 2016 10:19:46 PM
"Thank you, Trayvin," Pru says. "Michael and Tinker, could you do a quick perimeter check? Make sure there aren't any more surprises lurking out there?"
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+14=32 Friday November 4th, 2016 11:18:20 PM
Michael watches as the dragon zooms off, still in the zone his mind runs through options and tactics to take should it return. When the equation comes back zero, the buzz drops and he has to clamp his mouth shut as a torrent of trash talk threatens to gush forth. Michael has done some stupid things in his life, but trash talking a retreating dragon is not one of them...yet!
you'do better run punk! You ain't no great wyrm! You're more like a grub worm. You green son of tree kobold, I'm a call you puce from now on. Run home to momma puce, you are looking a bit green! .
A smile threatens to consume his face, how many times does one get to do something like that.
Then, like a good soldier he obeys his commander and checks the parameter Perception 32
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 78 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+13=22 ; Saturday November 5th, 2016 10:31:18 AM
Tinker comes down off his combat focus and starts shaking; he faced off against a dragon!
A wave to Prudence acknowledges the order and Tinker links up with Michael to do a 'bounding overwatch' perimeter sweep with crossbow and eyes open.
By the time he is done with the familiar task, Tinker is more calm and starts to think. "It's a puzzle. Why is there a young dragon so close to a town? " .....
Perception - 22
'Bounding Overwatch' - As members take an position where they have line of sight within missle range, other members advance to cover; these two groups continually switch roles as they maneuver, thus providing support.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 58/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+8=16 ; Saturday November 5th, 2016 2:28:50 PM
Spells in effect: Mage Armor (from Pru) Haste (from Pru): move +30', +1 att, +1 dodge, +1 Ref saves, +1 att w/ Full attack action Magic Fang 10/10, +1 att/dmg w/ natural weapon Bless: +1 luck bonus att, dmg, skills, saves
sense motive +7 +1 (prayer) DC15 = 16
"Just a young punk wanting to increase his prestige. I think we knocked that down a few notches. He's a dragon, though, so he'll lick his wounds and rebound as long as the other dragons don't ever find out he got his butt kicked. HA!"
Nikolai stands close and the healing works wonders on his scratch. "Thanks Trayvin. Too bad we don't have a dragon hide to present to the town. Eliminating a dragon from their woods would be a good boon to our, er, my defense. Oh well."
Nikolai hangs around Pru, waiting for orders and the scouting group to return.
Anna Morphling[hawk] (Hugh C) -- AC 18/17/13 vs AOO: 22/19/13- HP 52/52-- CMD 15 d20+14=21 ; d20+27=41 ; Sunday November 6th, 2016 3:40:27 PM
Anna spends a full round to transform herself into a tiny hawk using her many changes gift Queen Ma'ab bestowed on her.
She then takes to the air with her 60 foot flight speed (120 feet full round or 240 run) after the dragon. Her plan is to avoid its notice and hopefully tail it back its lair. She plans to land right before it wears off and head back to the group.
DM JeffO (Hiya!) Monday November 7th, 2016 10:28:51 AM Trayvin is amazed that the dragon flew away so quickly. Knowledge, Nature DC: 21 Highlight to display spoiler: {The dragon was large, but nowhere near as large as stories tell of dragons. This dragon must have been quite young to be so relatively small.}
Pru directs the others to check the perimeter. Michael yells at the quickly retreating dragon and then joins Tinker in a search of the perimeter. They see no signs of any other monsters, but happen upon what appears to be an old game trail that leads deeper into the forest. Michael notices there are a couple of large, very old, strangely colored rocks along the trail. They are large (about two feet on a side, cubes) and black and appear almost to be old stones that could have been used in construction of something. The coloring makes them look quite out of place.
Meanwhile, Anna turns into a tiny hawk as quickly as she can. She takes of flying, but very quickly realizes that she is a hawk, while she is attempting to follow a dragon. In mere minutes the dragon has disappeared from even her sight (your max speed: 240; his max speed: 800!). She can see that he was headed directly towards the coastline. Knowledge, local or knowledge, geography DC 18: Highlight to display spoiler: {The area of the coast where he was headed is generally quite abandoned and is known to be full of coastal caves.}
OOC: 4,800 xp each for defeating the dragon (and wow, that was quick!)
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 78 / 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday November 7th, 2016 9:28:11 PM
Tinker doesn't know what to make of the find, and waits for more brilliant minds.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+14=28 ; Monday November 7th, 2016 10:16:09 PM
ooc: Welcome JeffO!
Now that's curious isn't it Tink?...it's almost like there was a castle here at one time. I wonder if there are and hidden ruins!
Michael starts a wagon wheel pattern centered on the blocks they have found, looking for things not readily seen off the game trail.
Perception. 28
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 53/62} Monday November 7th, 2016 10:18:17 PM
Pru isn't sure what to make of the discoveries either, and she's not sure it's important right now.
"Trayvin," she says. "I could use some more healing, and I think Tinker and Nikolai are still hurt as well."
Anna Morphling[hawk] (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Monday November 7th, 2016 11:57:25 PM
Anna flies back to where her team is and reverts back to her normal form. She tells them how fast the dragon was and describes the area of where the dragon was headed. (OOC: I didn't train knowledge geography if I describe it can someone else try the check?)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 22 Ffted 19 HP 58/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday November 8th, 2016 1:06:41 AM
The wonderlust compels Nikolai to yearn to follow the game trail but that must wait the outcome of the trial. Very disappointed he turns to the task at hand.
"Well, friends, what did you find out from your scouting mission?"
DM JeffO Tuesday November 8th, 2016 11:15:07 AM
Michael starts exploring around the trail , looking for things out of place. After a short search, he finds the trail opens up to a relatively large clearing in the middle of the forest. Knowledge, Nature, DC 18: Highlight to display spoiler: {This appears to not be a natural clearing} Knowledge, Nature, DC 20: Highlight to display spoiler: {There is no vegetation or grass at all in the clearing, which is very unnatural} Knowledge, Nature, DC 22: Highlight to display spoiler: {There are tracks and markings that look like tracks a dragon would make}
Meanwhile, Pru calls out for healing while Anna returns with tales of following a very fast dragon (certainly with that description, others may attempt the check).
Others await the return of the scouting team.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20=6 ; Tuesday November 8th, 2016 6:01:10 PM
With nothing but a clearing found Michael walks back with Tinker and tells of what he found. all clear boss, some strange stones, look like castle blocks and a clearing in the middle of the woods...not much else.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) d10=3 ; Tuesday November 8th, 2016 6:09:02 PM
Tinker doesn't know anything about natural stuff, but he thinks he knows someone who does! "Let's go back and get the team, Michael. This is something that the whole team needs to look at."
The dwarf waits for Michael then the scouts return and tell the group what they have found.
Anna Morphling[hawk] (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Tuesday November 8th, 2016 8:51:48 PM
After describing what she saw of the dragon Anna then tells them of the mysterious voice at the pub as well as the information she gathered from the town folk that no one really seems to know much about the crime that Nikolai is supposedly suspected of.
She then goes to the clearing and applies her natural knowledge to figuring out its mysteries (knowledge nature take 10 + 13 = 23)
She points out the fact that the clearing is not natural, lacks vegetation and appears to have dragon tracks.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) d6=1 ; d6=2 ; d6=1 ; d6=2 ; d6=3 ; d6=4 ; Tuesday November 8th, 2016 8:57:16 PM
"Of course Pru, I can help with that." Trayvin channels energy again once everyone who could use it is nearby. "I think of all the gifts the gods are willing to share, that one is my favorite."
Actions:channel energy for 11hp. (rerolled ones)
OOC- welcome Jeff! And I skipped the kn nature rolls, Trayvin isn't trained.
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 62/62} Tuesday November 8th, 2016 10:51:29 PM
"Thank you Trayvin," Pru says. To the scouts, she says: "That all sounds really interesting, but we have an important appointment to keep. So unless these blocks are an immediate threat, I say we leave them for now and explore them another time. Hopefully on the way back."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday November 8th, 2016 11:41:43 PM
Spells in Effect: Mage Armor
"I'm sure I could put some light on that clearing with dragon tracks but Pru is right. We don't want them to get the notion that we are trying to avoid this trial and put any weight on the prosecutor's arguments against me. We've got this place well marked and we'll be back."
Nikolai is frustrated at being strapped to this trial thing. It is one thing to have to stick to a mission's goal, but this was a setup by all accounts.
"On the bright side of things, this trial may bring our enemies out into the open. I just hope to be able to take advantage of it," he sheepishly grins.
DM JeffO Wednesday November 9th, 2016 9:40:05 AM
The scouting group returns with stories of strange blocks. Anna quickly describes what she saw and then explores the edge of the clearing herself. She shares her discoveries with the others while Trayvin provides some healing for the group. Pru and Nikolai say that the group should ignore the clearing for now and focus on the trial. Meanwhile, the shadows start to grow longer as the sun prepares to set on the eve of the trial of the Agents of the Fist…
OOC: Preparations for night? Watches? Anything else?
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22
d20+14=30 ; Wednesday November 9th, 2016 1:10:34 PM
Michael will take first or last watch. He leavesaid the dark hours to those with the vision to make a difference
Perception 30
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday November 9th, 2016 7:16:54 PM
Harrumph.
Tinker takes the gague of the sky and looks to Prudence. "Bean Pole, We should be able to get to town and no watches with a irritated dragon about?"
Tinker will do whatever Pru decides.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Wednesday November 9th, 2016 9:10:57 PM
"We could sleep in the town tonight. But if we aren't doing that, I will take one of the watches."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+14=30 ; Wednesday November 9th, 2016 10:46:52 PM "There is something to be said about entering late at night under cover of darkness. Less people that know we have arrived the better. Unfortunately, that's the common sense way to look at it. Most things don't work using common sense. Our luck, some drunk will see us and go wake up the whole town and create a big ruckus. I think I'd rather put that off until the last minute. But it's your decision Pru," he grins.
If they stay out, he'll take a midnight watch. Perception +14 = 30
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Wednesday November 9th, 2016 11:46:29 PM
Anna will take one of the later watches activating her Dark Vision SLA when she goes to take it.
"Personally I favor not trying to sneak into the town. Something odd is going on there as no one seems to know much about the supposed crime but some unknown entity was shouting us down in the bar. If neither Michael nor I could find whatever it is I'd rather spend the night outside and enter the town in daylight openly lest our actions be misinterpreted." Anna says.
She also pulls a gem worth 35 gold from her bag before the end of the day and plans to refill the bag with 300 gold the next morning. She figures she can sell the gem later to recoup the gold.
DM JeffO Thursday November 10th, 2016 11:31:19 AM
OOC: I was going to push on, but we appear to have two in favor of heading to town and two in favor of staying outside of town with the dragon. I think I need to wait for Pru to weigh in on this decision, as it could be quite significant...
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 62/62} Thursday November 10th, 2016 12:21:18 PM
"No," Pru says. "Sneaking into town would convey exactly the wrong impression. We'll camp here and enter town in the morning."
She takes a deep breath. This is hard for her. "But even though we're staying here, that doesn't mean we have to sleep. I plan to stay awake. I won't recover the spells I just cast, but I have plenty. I can't order everybody to stay awake, of course, but I plan to."
DM JeffO Thursday November 10th, 2016 1:55:31 PM
The group has a discussion about whether or not to head into town and away from the dragon they injured. Michael and Trayvin set up for first watch, Nokolai takes the second watch, and Anna takes the final watch. Pru decides to stay awake the entire evening.
The first watch passes with Michael keeping a close eye on the lands around them. He spots a shadow against the stars and starts to get up, but then sees it settle on a branch above and sees that it is only an owl. During the second watch, Nokolai’s keen eyes spot a single mangy dog wander into the campsite from town. It sniffs around the area, looking for food, but moves quickly away when it sees Nokolai. During the final watch, Anna and Pru spot a large shadow flying far to the south along the horizon.
The next day dawns clear and bright, but there are clouds gathering off to the north…
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Thursday November 10th, 2016 8:37:19 PM
"Let's break camp. There's no point in lingering out here any longer."
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday November 10th, 2016 9:46:41 PM
Tinker took his turn at watch, and wakes as dawn, well, dawns. Breaking camp, he returns to the wagon and cleaners in. "OK, Nikolai, up you go"
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 d20+7=21 d20+13=30 d20+13=14 Thursday November 10th, 2016 11:57:36 PM
The gem that Anna pulled worth in the evening was a bloodstone worth 35 gp.
When she sees the shadow she tries to get an idea of what it could possibly be.
She then replenishes 300 gold into the bag refilling its capacity for the day before helping the rest of the group break camp.
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 62/62} Friday November 11th, 2016 12:03:51 AM
Pru is as eager as anyone to get off to an early start, but they need to do it right. "Everybody polish up and look your best," she says. "We're going to march into that town with our heads held high, like we're on parade. We've nothing to be ashamed of." Suiting actions to words, she tidies her own uniform and re-braids her hair.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Friday November 11th, 2016 2:35:05 AM
With all but his clothes he wears handed over to his friends, Nikolai makes sure his uniform is clean, then he's ready to go. As they march in to town, he does wonder about the decisions they've made to spare the lives of those whom they've captured. Incidences like this put weight on the execution of justice out in the field. "Leaving justice up to the locals does not seem to be worth it," he comments as they approach town.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+14=24 ; d20+5=22 ; Friday November 11th, 2016 7:17:20 AM
Michael spends a few minutes making shure his leathers look right. then he checks to make sure everyone else is ship shape and bristol fashion.
perception 24
military lore 22
once done the enter the town. Michael suggests that they make this a ritual.
Okay, once we get into town. we stop in front of the courthouse and Nikolai formally gives over command of the fist to Pru, he then disarms himself, we then form a block around him and escort him into the courthouse. if they want to put him in jail, I think we need to post bail. but Pru I think you need to demand to see the evidence against Nikolia.
LOG ON