AC 25 T 17 F 17 CMD 25. 29v Bull Rush or Trip; HP 56 / 63 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday March 14th, 2017 4:51:45 PM
Tinker sighs. He was secretly hoping there was a kidnapped brother and someone was forced to actions against her will. This sounds like she planned her betrayal even before joining the Fist; an oathbreaker through and through. "Mercy to the guilty is punishing the innocent", he says with years of sadness.
He walks back to the door, nothing more to see here.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 27 HP 67/81 Character Sheet d20+11=20 ; d8=5 ; d20+11=16 ; d8=3 ; Tuesday March 14th, 2017 6:34:31 PM
Sigvar needs to physically close his mouth as it falls open at her request.
" Just let you walk away? Admit that it is OK for you to fireball a tent full of mostly civilians, killing them and then say ' we let her go because she had her head screwed on wrong'. That would be a fine example of leadership. The people at large in the Wold would laud our intelligence to let someone who admitted that they planned, poorly, to punish the Fist and ended up killing innocent bystanders instead, go." "On a related note, the only people that seem to be on a sham of a trial here is The Fist. You make wild accusations and say we should defend ourselves, but offer no details. The Fist is a Mercenary Unit. We take jobs, usually jobs that protect the innocent and stop evildoers. People get killed on those jobs because the average bandit, or strong arm brigand or other military unit we are going against didn't get into their line of work to be reasonable, so they fight us and they lose. If your brother died when the Fist executed a Lawful contract against him then apparently he didn't want to be reasonable either."
Now that he knows she wants to get away, things are simpler for Sigvar. He makes sure that he remains within 10 feet of her and stands ready that if she attempts to flee or cast a spell he will strike her with his horns. Held action, attack her if she tries to flee or cast a spell Hit AC 20 for 7 damage If she persists and provokes an AoO then Hit AC 16 for 5 damage Add 2 to those to hit numbers if there is a Fist member flanking her when she does whatever she does.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday March 14th, 2017 10:22:05 PM
"Well," Pru says. "You'll only be executed if you're guilty. Are you guilty? Because it sounds as if you believe you are, in spite of all your protestations. And we cannot let you go; don't be absurd. But here's what I can promise you--if you give me the name of your brother, and tell us what happened, then my companions and I will investigate. And if we find there was wrongdoing on the part of the Fist, we will do our best to ensure that justice is done. I think that's the best offer you're going to get, and I think you'd better take it."
Trayvin AC 22/13 touch Hp 62/70(BrianZ) Tuesday March 14th, 2017 11:06:05 PM
Trayvin has nothing more to say to the girl. Pru has made her the best offer she is likely to get. Now to wait and see if she is interested. Screaming at her will do no more good.
Active Effects: zone of truth
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 ; d20+6=23 ; Tuesday March 14th, 2017 11:39:54 PM
Michael is stunned, A lifetime of study just for simple revenge? Surely she had friends in the Fist, people she bled beside, risked her life for, and who did the same for her...did these things count for nothing? He cannot fathom such betrayal, such hate....well he can...he lived with the minons of Ga'al for most of his life...still for someone to willfully embrace such evil. He stands ready for action on her part and says nothing,
perception 28 sense motive 23
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday March 15th, 2017 12:02:43 AM
Spells in effect: Mage Armor Stunning Fist 3/5 Ki Pool 4/5
Nikolai backs off a little. "Regardless of how or why or by whom your brother was killed, you still need to accept responsibility for your actions. By your own admission you purposely chose to infiltrate the Mailed Fist for revenge. You must answer to that.
You've explained your reasoning, but how about the others in your team? What about the other guards? What about that ghostly woman? How did you come to be associated with them? And who was it that the ghostly witch was calling out to?
Nikolai's Fist has a certain degree of freedom to pick missions that the other Fists are not equipped to handle. Be specific about your brother's circumstances and we will look into it. You can trust us to find the Truth, just as we were trusted to find the Truth about Commander Neutronis. We found that he had broken a contract and murdered a messenger. We didn't hide that fact and sweep it under a rug. If an investigation shows wrongdoing on a Fist's part, we will bring it out in the open.
I can't speak for any Fist other than mine, that we have never intentionally killed innocents, however some have been caught between us and our enemies. Hopefully your brother was not one of them. But be aware that your brother may not have been one of those innocent bystanders but one that chose to be our enemy."
Nikolai put a lot on the table and he regains a little of his patience in order to give the guard some time to respond.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 25/14/20 - HP 68/68 -- CMD 16 Wednesday March 15th, 2017 4:09:35 AM
Anna focuses hard on the captive. She really wants to know what is going on in the woman's head and how it either reinforces or clashes with what is being told to the group.
DM JeffO Wednesday March 15th, 2017 10:07:08 AM
Anna concentrates on the guard. She reads powerful thoughts of fear, hatred, and failure. When the guard glances at the door, there is a glimmer of hope, but that thought goes away quickly as Tinker moves to continue to guard the door.
Pru and Nikolai attempt to reason with the guard, makings offer to investigate any wrongdoing. She looks at Pru with sad eyes, but then quickly her eyes turn back hard. Sigvar has taken up a defensive position with Michael, so they are ready when she starts to cast a spell. As soon as she moves, he is there with his horns, quickly stopping her and bringing her down to the ground. She is once again unconscious.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 27 HP 67/81 Character Sheet Wednesday March 15th, 2017 11:08:45 AM
Sigvar looks at the others. " She is an admitted infiltrator and all of us saw her blatantly kill those civilians. Wronged or not she is a murderer. She won't answer questions and is wasting our time keeping us from the Knight Commander. Is that a coincidence? Or is it part of a larger plan?" Sigvar straightens his kit and prepares to move.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Wednesday March 15th, 2017 4:47:16 PM Stupid, stupid, stupid Michael says to himself and he binds her up. Hands behind back, backs of hands together, elbows, ankles and knees. he braids a piece of cord into her hair and ties it off to the bindings on her elbows. He then gags her and blindfolds her. I guess the interrogators, will probably get more out of her than we can.
Pompous Marcus Maximus AC 25 CMD 23/18, HP 77/77 Position M2 (Yves) Wednesday March 15th, 2017 9:07:13 PM
{ So these are the Fists?.... Effective fighters I suppose... Most would have just killed the prisoner by now.. guess they aren't most... }
Pompous continues to lean on his bow and listen.
Trayvin AC 22/13 touch Hp 62/70(BrianZ) Wednesday March 15th, 2017 9:10:06 PM
"There is nothing more to be done here. Shall we go and see the Commander?"
Active Effects: zone of truth
AC 25 T 17 F 17 CMD 25. 29v Bull Rush or Trip; HP 56 / 63 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday March 15th, 2017 9:16:02 PM
"Nothing more for us here", grates the bass voice of Tinker. "Keep her toes and then go see Commander Palance."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday March 15th, 2017 9:47:16 PM
Spells in effect: Mage Armor Stunning Fist 3/5 Ki Pool 4/5
OOC: side note - correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't remember ever releasing her but for her to speak. Not relevant now but... :)
IC: Nikolai has very little patience with obstinate people. "Yes, we are done here. We did everything we could to get her to open up so we could help. Some people are just so eat'n up with hate they don't want help. Her brother is dead and we can't fix that. She won't give us details of how or by whom so we can't investigate that. She won't tell us who her cohorts were so that's that. Commander Palance can choose other means to get the information, but that's not our call to do it.
At least Commander Palance seems to know who the ghostly witch was. Maybe that'll be enough."
Nikolai thanks the medics for their help in curing the Fist of their curses and diseases, then commandeers a stretcher to aid in carrying the guard to the dungeons.
Picking up the front, he says, [b]"Let's go make this deposit and then stop by Commander Palance's office. I'm curious as to how that librarian was coerced into blaming Pru for the Paper Golem."[/b[
He leads the way to the prison, then to their commander's office.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday March 15th, 2017 10:31:38 PM
Pru had hastily prepared to counter any hostile spell, and is relived when her help isn't needed. She looks sadly at the unconscious form. "I'll pray for you," she says softly.
To her companions she says, "Yes. We've kept Captain Palance waiting long enough. Let's go report in."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 25/14/20 - HP 68/68 -- CMD 16 Wednesday March 15th, 2017 11:05:05 PM
Anna tells the others about the emotions she got from the prisoner. "I got strong emotions of fear, hatred and failure and then a glimmer of hope when she saw the door before we stopped her."
"Let's go drop this prisoner off and then see the commander."
(OOC: Let me know how much time has elapsed on way to the commander)
DM JeffO Thursday March 16th, 2017 10:32:46 AM
The group escorts the guard to the prisons. The citadel has only a few cells, but they are all empty when the group delivers the guard. The prison guard nods without saying a word and locks the cell after she is deposited there.
It takes about 15 minutes total for the group to drop off the prisoner and return to Palence’s office. When they arrive, she is standing behind her desk, pacing. She looks up when the group arrives and says, “I don’t know what’s going on here. Give me the debrief of your time away. I received messages from the town that you were all innocent. I knew that before I sent you, but we had to make things look good. Tell me everything that happened while you were gone.”
OOC: 11,000 xp each from the battle! When the guards were searched, 3 items of value were found: a nice, shiny axe, a longsword that has strange red lettering along the length of the sword, and a twisted staff made of reddish-brown wood from the guard that is in prison now.
Pompous Marcus Maximus AC 25 CMD 23/18, HP 77/77 Position M2 (Yves) Thursday March 16th, 2017 5:21:00 PM
Pompous looks around a bit confused...
" Pardon... should I still be here with all of you? "
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 27 HP 67/81 Character Sheet Thursday March 16th, 2017 6:09:34 PM
Sigvar was not with the Agents while they were in town or when they fought the dragon so he remains silent, only adding to the descriptions of the Swamp Beast battle if asked. To Pompous he motions for the man to stay. Sigvar owed him for the assistance he lent and would pay it in drinks later on.
AC 25 T 17 F 17 CMD 25. 29v Bull Rush or Trip; HP 56 / 63 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday March 16th, 2017 9:46:29 PM
Tinker looks at Pompous. "Yes. You pitched in when needed, your bow, body, and brains. That's something the Agents could use, if you and Commander Palance agree."
The dwarf allows Michael, Anna, Nikolai, and Prudence to describe the activities; never been much of a talker. He stands at parade rest, but his eye wanders, sneaking glances at Palance.
Trayvin AC 22/13 touch Hp 62/70(BrianZ) Thursday March 16th, 2017 9:54:09 PM
"Well Commander, first we should mention that we have returned two members stronger than when we left. If it is agreeable to you, would you mind writing orders for the transfer of Sigvar and Pompous to Nikolai's Fist?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Thursday March 16th, 2017 11:02:37 PM
Spells in effect: Mage Armor Stunning Fist 3/5 Ki Pool 4/5
Now the the prisoner is off their hands Nikolai can pay attention to other things, like their new companion.
"Good to meet you, Mr. Maximus. What name do you prefer to go by? My name is Nikolai Komonov and this is Nikolai's Fist, our newest member is Sigvar, the minotaur, just recently only days ago.
Do come with us. You were in the battle as much as us and your own report will be required, besides, as an unbiased party, you can verify that our interrogation of the traitor guard was above board and by the book, and delivered in good health."
Nikolai says little else as the others introduce themselves and soon the doors to Commander Palance's office stands in their way.
When asked for their full report of their trip, Nikolai hands his commander a scroll tube labeled 'Mission to Sandrill Crossing'. Nikolai felt it unnecessary to label it for what it actually was, a trial based upon a bogus accusation of murder.
Nikolai stands stiff and salutes his commander. "Here is the longer long version of our trip. The shorter long version starts with your orders to go to Sandrill Crossing to answer the accusation that I murdered the bandit Gerard. Our trip to Sandrill was rather uneventful until a day out when a young green dragon waylaid us and we whupped his butt and sent him flying with his tail between his legs. As the song says, 'Well he flew through the briars, and he flew through the brambles. And he flew through the bushes where a rabbit wouldn't go...'.
Arriving at Sandrill, we presented ourselves, myself as a captive, to the city council official who recorded that we had arrived as ordered and told us where we could stay and what time to present ourselves in court the next day. The town seemed very unfriendly so we took a room and kept to ourselves.
Next day we showed up in court as ordered and the judge read the charges. We demanded that the accuser show himself to press the charges himself. A tall cloaked wobbly figure approached the bench but before he got there he fell, revealing that he was not a 'tall' person at all but two leprechauns. The room erupted in chaos as other leprechauns caused mayhem and mischief whilst the first two got away.
Once the room settled down again, the judge ruled a mistrial and cleared us of all the accusations listed and set us free. The town then suddenly became pretty friendly, as must add.
Free of that burden, we hastened to the spot were the dragon attacked us and looked for its lair. We found a treasure stash, that's when Sigvar found us. We gathered up all our stuff from town and headed back home. A couple days out, we came across some odd stinky swamp creatures in the middle of the road. We tried to converse with them to get them to move so our wagon could pass but their language is that of plant creatures and they attacked us.
In their defense, they had been compelled to do so by that ghost witch we fought today. She had enlisted some Will O' Wisps to aid in the fight also. Once we dispatched three of the swamp creatures and had the fourth unconscious and our efforts turned to her, the witch knew it was time to flee.
We have no idea why this ambush, but that ghost witch apparently was not satisfied in being just undead and staged the events of this morning.
My longer long report details more of the trial details and our expenses, including the loss of our wagon, is on that scroll in that tube."
Nikolai salutes again to accentuate the end of his report.
Prudence Gundle Thursday March 16th, 2017 11:09:03 PM
"The witch may have been behind the bogus accusation against Nikolai as well," Pru adds. "There were will-o-wisps flying around outside our room at the inn where we were awaiting the trial. It looked as if they were keeping an eye on us."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 25/14/22 - HP 52/52 -- CMD 17 Thursday March 16th, 2017 11:39:16 PM
Anna is saddened that most of her boosts have expired without having any further enemy to confront and that she didn't get to potentially learn the commander's surface thoughts if they were to question her about the witch. It seems rude to recast detect thoughts in the Commander's presence.
Anna tells the Commander of their recent experience in the field from their encounter with the dragon to their travels to the village and the intelligence gathering to will o wisps in the middle of the night to the trial and the leprechauns. She then informs Constance of their encounter with the witch and the swamp things on the way back home.
When she is done she offers a smart salute and said, "Do you know who the green woman was who kept harassing us?"
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Friday March 17th, 2017 1:43:16 AM
Micheal comments of his role in the whole fiasco, from his infiltration of the town to his paranoia over a waiting ambush. He tries to be concise but is really feeling kind of maudlin.
DM JeffO Friday March 17th, 2017 9:42:04 AM
Commander Palence stops and listens. When Pompous speaks up, the commander interrupts and says, “Oh, yes, I almost forgot.” She points to Sigvar and says, “I see that Sigvar managed to meet up with you. Indeed, he was sent from here, I hope there were no issues finding them.” She then points over to Pompous and continues, “Yes, this is Marcus Maximus. He had trained and we were preparing to have him added to your team when all this happened on your return. It appears that you have already met him. In any case, Marcus, this is Nikolai’s Fist. Nikolai’s Fist, this is Marcus. Now please, go on.”
When Nikolai starts narrating the story, Palence interrupts here and there to confirm details. When the dragon is mentioned her eyes grow wide. Then when it is mentioned that it was chased off she says, “Wait, you attacked the dragon and lived?” She thinks a moment and says, “Ah, but now we have a dragon roaming free. We will have to see to that.”
“Swamp creatures and will-o-wisps on the road? I certainly hope that’s the last we hear of that.”
When Anna asks about the ghost witch she says, “I was hoping you might be able to tell me more about her. There was this woman, years and years ago, that tried to take over the area here. The Fist defeated her, though, so I don’t know how this could be her. Did she tell you her name at any point? Clearly she is allied with things of the swamp, but the one I am thinking of lived in a castle that was utterly destroyed by the Fist a long time ago. Do you have any other ideas that might help us confirm her identity? I mean, if it were the woman I’m thinking of, that was hundreds of years ago.”
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 27 HP 67/81 Character Sheet Friday March 17th, 2017 3:52:40 PM " No problem finding them at all Commander, they were the talk of the town by the time i arrived." Sigvar then listens to the narration of the trial and todays fight. When asked for more details he mentions what Tinker confirmed. " I think it could be the same one. I mean she HATES the Fist and had a pretty bad reaction to the holy water Tinker splashed on her. In my book that makes her undead or some kind of extra-planar demon."
Prudence Gundle Friday March 17th, 2017 7:15:26 PM
"She was a spellcaster," Pru adds. "A lot of casters have spells they like to use a lot. She really liked this green-fire spell. She had others, but she used the green fire a lot. Are their records of what kinds of spells this long-ago person liked to cast?"
Trayvin AC 22/13 touch Hp 62/70(BrianZ) Friday March 17th, 2017 9:06:00 PM
"Do you know the location of that castle? Maybe we could find some information there that would be helpful."
AC 25 T 17 F 17 CMD 25. 29v Bull Rush or Trip; HP 56 / 63 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday March 17th, 2017 10:38:15 PM
Tinker keeps quiet as usual until the Commander speaks of an utterly ruined castle and needed proof. The dwarf digs out the signet ring and places it on the Commander's desk. " we got this from an utterly ruined castle a half day from sandhill. Could that be the connection?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Saturday March 18th, 2017 11:10:20 PM "No sir, she did not give her name. She also befuddled us in her true nature. Our understanding of ghosts is that they are rather affixed to the place where they died. This one obviously has freedom to move around. But my understanding of ghostly natures is rather limited. I shall study more on the subject. I'll also look up the incident with this lady in our archives. If the Fist who filed the report on the incident is as thorough as we were taught to be, it should include the offensive details she used against the Fist. I'll look into that immediately," Nikolai volunteers.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 25/14/22 - HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Sunday March 19th, 2017 10:45:40 PM
Anna says, "Well she certainly wouldn't stop. I wonder if she is done or if she'll be back again when she came at us with Swamp Things she just disappeared and it seems like that kind of just happened right now. I think we definitely need more information. Would it be wise to cast speaks with dead on the charred remains of the librarian that slipped the book into the library?"
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Sunday March 19th, 2017 10:49:43 PM Whoever she is, she was able to draw together a lot of different actors to work against us. A young green dragon, Will-o-Wisps, leprechauns, bog beasts and dissatisfied Fist members. That's not typical ghost behaviour. The holy water burned her, but she is much more than a ghost. I'm thinking she's lich or some other advanced form of undead...and if she is...we haven't seen the last of her.
DM JeffO Monday March 20th, 2017 9:49:05 AM
Palence listens to interest to the various answers given to her questions. She nods thoughtfully and then looks up in surprise when Tinker provides the signet ring. She picks it up quite carefully, as if she is afraid she will break it. Then she whistles and a young trainee runs into the room. He looks over at Nikolai in awe, but listens carefully to Palence.
“Take this to the head librarian. Tell her is it from me. Go.”
The young man grabs the ring and runs out of the room.
“If anyone knows the history of this area, it is our librarians. She will know if that is a significant ring, or if it is nothing. We may need to know the exact location where you found that if it is something.”
When Nikolai offers to look into more on the woman she says, “First, let us go outside and see what else needs to be done here to clean this up.” She turns and heads down the hallways and towards the gate to the citadel.
The group steps outside and sees that a crowd has gathered around the outside meeting area. There are a few Fist members around milling about, but the excitement seems to have ended…until a person spots you Fist members coming out the door. He points and shouts, “That is them! They are the ones who saved us from the ghost witch! Hooray for the Fist!”
The crowd joins in a cheer and starts moving towards the group. The commander wisely steps back and out of the way as the crowd reaches the Fist. Everyone wants to reach up and pat members on the back, shake your hands, and thank you. One woman tries to kiss Nikoali on the lips. Another rubs Tinker on the head. A couple of guys that look like they might be twins wink and nod as Anna. Palence leans back against the wall, watching, and you see a very rare smile appear on her face.
Pompous Marcus Maximus AC 25 CMD 23/18, HP 77/77 Position M2 (Yves) Monday March 20th, 2017 10:10:45 AM
At Commander Palence's introduction, Pompous bows in salute towards the group. " My honour". " You may address me as Pompous".
--------- Pompous follows the group and observes. { These are famous warriors... I will do well here. }
AC 25 T 18 F 18 CMD 25. 29v Bull Rush or Trip; HP 71/ 71 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday March 20th, 2017 7:52:19 PM
Tinker is surprised about the reaction of the people. Despite his usual stoic demeanor, he doesn't really know what to do and so succumbs to back pats, head rubs, and awed adoring faces.
Tinker is more bemused by anything else. They have been getting more noteriety even though their exploits have been in other locations. This was very public, and is a very public reaction.
The dwarf ceded to be manhandled.
Trayvin AC 22/13 touch Hp 62/70(BrianZ) Monday March 20th, 2017 8:52:23 PM
Trayvin looks decidedly uncomfortable at the public show of affection from the crowd. The Agents are a bit 'special' within the ranks of the Fist, but still, it's not something he is used to. "Err, thank you. We're not heroes you know, just doing our job."
Prudence Gundle Monday March 20th, 2017 10:09:56 PM
Inside the office, Pru greets Pompous with a "Hello....er, Pompous. Most people call me Pru."
Pompous? she is thinking. I have brothers named Righteous and Pious, and even I think that's excessive. Poor guy.
Outside, she is momentarily taken aback by all the cheers, but soon her sunny smile is back in place. "You're giving us too much credit, really," she says. "Mostly we were just in the right place at the right time."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+13=29 ; Monday March 20th, 2017 10:11:37 PM
Nikolai at first grins and repeats over and over again that the safety of the town is all that matters but is caught off guard by one woman's amorous affection. His thoughts race 'Oh NO! I hope she didn't see this! What will she think of me?' and takes a quick glance over towards Pru and tries to wipe any vestiges of her lips the woman may have left on his lips.
He manages to communicate with the Fist, "Looks like things are well under control here, let's get back inside and start getting ready for another trip." Any excuse to extricate themselves from this uncomfortable situation is fair game and he tries to do just that.
Stealth +13 (Sneak away and back into the Citadel) = 29
Anna Morphling[Pru] (Hugh C) -- AC 25/14/22 - HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 d20+17=33 ; Monday March 20th, 2017 10:37:38 PM
Anna says to Pompous, "Well met sir Ranger, tell me is your bond with the land or a companion? I believe I can talk to animals and plants without the use of a spell regardless of my current form & if you are bonded to a creature of fur, feather or scales I would like to introduce myself."
When she gets out to the hall she flashes the twins a mischievous grin and says, "Look Pru, twins. One for me and one for you. She takes Pru's hand and pulls her over to where the two men are to introduce herself and Pru. When she gets close to the brothers she whispers to Pru, "watch this." and then activates her alter self SLA to look and sound like Pru (Disguise: 43 from the polymorph effect)
Anna-Pru says, "Boys I'm flattered by your attention I really am, but isn't my sister in arms Prudence more radiant than I?" Anna-Pru spins around as she says this. She then continues, "Also look now we are twins too, though our twinship is only temporarily. I know why don't we go on a double date to the Last Assignment? What say you Pru?" Anna-Pru asks to Pru-Pru.
Active Effects: longstrider: +10 movement speed - 5 hours [2802 - ? rounds] Barkskin : +2 natural armor - 50 minutes [303 - ? rounds] Alter Self: Human (medium humanoid[Pru]) - 6 minutes [60 rounds]
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 27 HP 67/89 Character Sheet Tuesday March 21st, 2017 9:48:51 AM
Sigvar nods to the new recruit, owing him a few rounds for his timely intervention. Secretly he is also relieved to not be the new guy any longer. Outside he is more at home than many of his companions seem to be. Shock troops in the Bear company were often held in higher respect and well treated. He nods at Nickolai's order and heads back inside to prep for the trek they will probably be taking to this ruin that the team found the ring in.
DM JeffO Tuesday March 21st, 2017 10:46:46 AM
The group accepts the adoration of the crowd in different ways. Anna approaches the twins and suddenly appears to match Pru. The eyes of both of the twins go wide and their mouths drop open. After a moment’s pause, they move forward and attempt to take Anna and Pru in their arms to swing and dance with them, despite the lack of any music.
Nikolai tries to extricate himself from the crowd. He succeeds, but is met at the door by Commander Palence. She tries to hide a smile as he addresses him, “And just where are you headed, Nikolai?” Without waiting for an answer, she addresses the crowd, “Here, here!” she shouts to get their attention. As they calm down a little she continues, “How about a celebration for these heroes? Let us have a dinner and celebration here, at the meeting house, this very evening!” With that proclamation, another cheer goes up from the crowd. She smiles at Nikolai and says, “And you will attend, that is an order.” She tries to be serious but she cannot hide the pride and smiles she has for the group.
The time is late morning.
AC 25 T 18 F 18 CMD 25. 29v Bull Rush or Trip; HP 71/ 71 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday March 21st, 2017 6:23:43 PM
Tinker actually breathes a sigh of relief at the Commander's timely intervention; a feast in the evening is a much more controlled environment than a sudden display of affection. Respect and even a little admiration (from the city guard at Ailthmar) he was used to getting, but adoration was something else.
Tinker stays until the crowd disperses and the goes back to their quarters in Commander Palance's Tower. "Sigvar, Pompous, come along and I'll show you the Agent's quarters." Tinker leads the new Battle-buddies to the suite of rooms that Palance designated for the Agents. A sturdy, reinforced wood door opens onto a large common with windows and a balcony that overlooks the Fist's training grounds. From the common room, two corridors run left and right with individual sleeping quarters enough for the whole group. Tinker indicates the two rooms not yet taken and still has Fist-issued furniture decorating the chamber; bed, desk, chair, wardrobe, chest, washbasin, arming stand, rag-rug, and fireplace. "Quartermasters is open for any standard issue items of course."
Tinker spends the morning and afternoon getting clean and then dumping his equipment and doing maintenance on every item before neatly placing back in his rucksack. Armor and weapons get the same treatment. Only then does he get a quick wash, clean clothes, and is ready in the common room idly picking his mantacles locks while waiting for everyone to go to dinner together.
Pompous Marcus Maximus AC 25 CMD 23/18, HP 77/77 Position M2 (Yves) Tuesday March 21st, 2017 8:07:30 PM
Pompous bows towards Anna " And well met to you miss Anna is it? " " As said before, I am Pompous Marcus Maximus of the house Maximus." Long pause... "Yes, I am indeed a ranger. Skilled in bow and glaive. My calling is to nature and protecting both fauna and flora. My family is from Delume where my father is a very important merchant. During my apprenticeship, I learned the glory of the great father trees, the winds, and the water that brings life to everything that lives. While I do indeed know much of, well most things really, I know most of the ways of the great forests and majestic swamps." Pompous pauses, for dramatic effect more then anything. " I'm sorry to disappoint you but I do now have an animal companion like many rangers would. I specialized in tracking and knowing the ways of the great fauna." " Your professed gift of communicating directly with the fauna intrigues me dear lady. I've known a few druids that were able to do the same. When convenient, I would appreciate a demonstration? "
Trayvin AC 22/13 touch Hp 62/70(BrianZ) Tuesday March 21st, 2017 9:05:32 PM
Trayvin thankfully retreats to his room. Some quiet meditation will be most helpful before attending the dinner. Still, there was something nagging at the back of his thoughts that they were still missing something in this whole situation.
He ponders on it while cleaning up and preparing for the 'celebration'.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 67/89 Character Sheet Tuesday March 21st, 2017 9:35:54 PM
Sigvar follows Tinker's lead and thanks him for showing him the layout of their quarters. Last night they were pretty exhausted so the layout was kind of overlooked. Thankfully he had been here before traveling to meet the Agents, He had already had the standard Fist furniture replaced with Minotaur sized accoutrements. He too cleans and reorders his gear while his cat climbs into his rack and catches some rest. He adds no polish, but cleans and oils or waxes everything to protect it. He then goes for a bath, to soak out the lingering effects of the disease. He catches some rest himself before redonning his armor and weapons for the night's feast. Unless specifically ordered, Sigvar never roams unarmed, and seldom unarmored.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday March 21st, 2017 10:27:50 PM
Pru stays where she is for a time, chatting easily with the assembled Fist members, looking forward to the evening's celebration. She moves away, not seeming to be in any particular hurry. Her real goal, of course, is to be sauntering casually past the mess right about the time they begin serving the midday meal. She had been too nervous to eat much breakfast, and now she is famished!
Lunch out of the way, she goes to check if there is a letter for her--Verity's letter a few weeks ago had given her hope that more might follow. Then she returns to her quarters. She washes quickly, then takes the time to unbraid, brush, and re-braid her very long hair. As the time for the celebration approaches, she dons a clean tunic and checks to make sure her boots are clean and polished.
Anna Morphling[Pru] (Hugh C) -- AC 25/14/22 - HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Tuesday March 21st, 2017 11:14:27 PM
Anna enjoys the time dancing with the twins and then sends them on their way with a peck on the cheek after she reverts back to her normal form.
She goes with Pru to the mess and eats a hearty lunch of stew and rustic bread.
When she has a moment she says to Pompous, "Yes my name is Anna and my Lady Queen Ma'ab has seen fit to bless me with her speech. As such I can talk to humanoids, fey, plants, animals and magical beasts regardless of my own form at the moment as I said."
She then asks Sigvar's cat, "How are you today, Mr Cat?" considering that Pompous did want a demonstration.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday March 21st, 2017 11:31:23 PM
[b]"All right, all right. As you ordered, I'll, we'll be there. Sir," Nikolai salutes and slips on by. One last look back he sees the two twins flirting with Pru and Anna-Pru. It disturbs him a little that he can't tell between Real Pru and Anna-Pru.
To keep his mind off this, he heads to the library. He seeks out the librarian on duty and asks for the archives going back to the supposed battle with this witch woman. He spends the rest of the afternoon in the librarian looking for the report of that event.
An hour before the celebrations start he heads back to his room. He showers and picks out his Dress Uniform for the night. 'She wants it a grand affair, she'll get it.'
As he approaches the meeting house at the appointed time and he can hear the noise of the celebrations in full swing, he can't help but ponder the irony that here they are, eating and drinking and having a good time while another, a traitor, sits in a dark, damp, cell, unwilling to open up and perhaps get a reprieve of sorts. The irony that it could have been him sitting in a dark, damp, cell somewhere in Sandrill Crossing if that witch's plan had worked and the leprechauns had been a wee bit more reliable. You gotta hand it to the leprechauns for their inability to take things too seriously and treat most things as some king of prank or joke.
He peeks in to see if any other of his Fist are there but he had rather they all enter together so he waits outside for anyone that has not shown up yet. He fidgets and mentally kicks himself for not stuffing his Hat of Disguise inside a pocket so he could manage an escape when he felt he'd spent enough time to fulfill his obligation. 'Sigh, oh well.'
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Wednesday March 22nd, 2017 12:07:53 AM
Michael is a bit uncomfortable with adoration, being well known is bad tradecraft and likely to get you killed. but at the same time, it feels good to be appreciated and he smiles as he makes his way through the crowd.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 67/89 Character Sheet Wednesday March 22nd, 2017 4:14:26 AM
The cat stretches and looks at Anna. " Wha? I was taking a nap, why are you bothering me? Besides, no one ever talks to me but the big guy. He keeps me safe and I keep vermin out of his room, or tent or wherever he is living, guy moves around alot." "Wait, can you understand me? You have that look that says you know what I'm saying. Weird, no one even listens to me." "Leave me alone, I'm trying to sleep here, It's like 75% of my job." The cat the gets up walks around in a circle to get comfy and then goes back to napping.
DM JeffO Wednesday March 22nd, 2017 8:57:31 AM
The afternoon passes and food is served at the mess hall. After lunch, and before naps, a squire appears at the door. He starts to speak and then looks around at the group in the common room and stumbles, "I... You... You're..." He swallows and then stares at the wall and says, "The commander has indicated that the affair this evening will be a formal affair and you are to appear as appropriate."
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 67/89 Character Sheet Wednesday March 22nd, 2017 2:45:22 PM
As the sqiure leaves Sigvar sighs and mutters, " I came from being imprisoned, where am I supposed to get a dress uniform in a couple of hours. Do any of you have anything that can make it look like I am in a dress uniform? I haven't got one and don't think they could even get me fitted before this party starts, much less get one stitched together. Besides, It couldn't hurt to go prepared to a shin dig like this, what with the way the last 'meeting' turned out. I mean if you all want me to carry something for you and can illusion me up so that I am dressed appropriately, what's the harm right?" Sigvar looks especially at Tinker, who he knows fought the last battle with nothing more than grit and a boot knife. Heck the other's weapons were small, they wouldn't even make his pack look used, and if they had some magic to cover it over....
Anna Morphling[Pru] (Hugh C) -- AC 25/14/22 - HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Wednesday March 22nd, 2017 4:08:38 PM
Anna says to Sigvar, "Not to worry, you got gold to pay me back either now or later, right?"
She reaches into her bag of tricks and pulls out a large sized dress uniform (OOC: reskinned courtier's outfit valued at 30 gold x 2 for being large = 60 gp) and hands it to her new companion.
"Personally I'm just going to wear my shiny mithral armor, as that look never goes out of style."
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 67/89 Character Sheet Wednesday March 22nd, 2017 9:17:29 PM " I was gonna wear my armor, until that dweeb, I mean squire showed up with all these rules. Heck, formal dinner in Bear Company meant everyone wore pants and used forks.This uniform kinda takes all the fun outta this. But thanks Anna, I'll get you the gold once we identify those weapons."
With a stretch and a soft 'Meow', the cat looks at Anna with one half lidded eye. " He's not kidding about the Bear Company parties. I made sure to be scarce at those things, They would throw or eat almost anything, not necessarily in that order. Halflings, cats, sheep, on one occasion a horse, no lie, a horse. You guys are way more sedate." The eye closes and with a luxurious stretch and a purr, the cat is asleep again.
Trayvin AC 22/13 touch Hp 62/70(BrianZ) Wednesday March 22nd, 2017 9:19:28 PM
Trayvin expected as much and already inspected his dress uniform to make sure it didn't have any stains or damage. "Fear not squire, we will try not to embarrass anyone." The Commander was a soldier too, she would likely forgive a few minor points of etiquette.
AC 25 T 18 F 18 CMD 25. 29v Bull Rush or Trip; HP 71/ 71 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday March 22nd, 2017 9:20:19 PM
Tinker looks at the recruit and nods. "Message received." He responds, feeling mildly irritated that they are no longer 'one of the troops'.
For Sigvar, Tinker shrugs. "Commander said formal and didn't specify dress uniform. I'm just going to use the same uniform I had from graduation." He goes to pull it from his wardrobe and puts it on. "Hrmm, a little tight about the chest. "
Tinker is clean and in his graduation uniform. He leaves his armor and most weapons in his room, but has his magical cloak and ring along with his silvered dagger and sap tucked away with his lockpicks. You never know!
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Thursday March 23rd, 2017 1:13:25 AM
Nikolai already had planned to use his Dress Uniform so he simple smirks, but not where the page could see it. "Thank you Sir Page. It's good to Know. Showing up underdressed would be an embarrassment."
Nikolai was about to suggest his Hat of Disguise to Sigvar but Anna pulls what's needed out of her bag of tricks. Then he wonders what would happen if he used his hat for a third Pru and see how those twins react to that and chuckles as he goes to his room.
Prudence Gundle Thursday March 23rd, 2017 2:25:39 AM
After brushing and braiding her hair, Pru gets into her dress uniform, which she hasn't had occasion to wear for a while. She is ready to go when the hour arrives.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Thursday March 23rd, 2017 3:11:00 PM
Michael Dresses in his best scout leathers but wears his Mithril shirt beneath them. It's light and fits nice. he takes his weapons as well. it may gather him strange looks, it may be a social faux pas, but it's better to be alive and a fool than dead and socially accepted.
Michael looks at Sigvar. you know with your coloration, a good brush and oil and then a minimal uniform, perhasp just a sash and a kilt and you'd look awesome!
DM JeffO Thursday March 23rd, 2017 4:47:44 PM
The group takes their time and prepares for the celebration. Anna helps Sigvar prepare with a nice new uniform. Everyone else gets out what they can or their best. When it is time to go, the group opens to door to their suite to find a small crowd gathered outside their room. The crowd consists of a couple large guards, fully dressed in fine, bright uniforms. There are four other squires there, also in full uniform, pressed and polished. There are a few others there as well. Before anyone can ask them, one of the guards says, “Greetings Fist! We are your escort to the celebration, per our orders.” One of them turns with two of the squires and takes up the lead and starts down the hallway. The others wait for the group to follow and then bring up the rear. The procession feels very formal as you wind your way through the familiar hallways that you have traversed before in various states.
The guards lead you out the main entrance of the citadel into the twilight. What first catches your eyes is the lights and the meeting hall. Since you have last seen it, the meeting hall has completely changed. Gone are the benches and burn marks and instead there are a number of tables and chairs. The stage is still in place, and there is a row of tables there with empty seats behind them. There are a number of different sources of light hanging from various points and places along the edges of the tent and inside the large, open tent. There is food and drinks aplenty throughout the room and there is even an open space in the middle of the floor that appears to have been left open intentionally. Then you see all the people.
It looks like the entire town has showed up for the celebration and all their related relatives as well. There are people at all the tables and many others standing, talking, and walking around. Along the far side there are a number of kegs setup with a bar in front and plenty of mugs of ale being served to a number of people gathered around the bar. In the rear of the tent a group of musicians have setup an area and are playing music. There are a number of different string instruments and two singers, a man and a woman, singing a familiar tune. Beyond there are a number of temporary pits setup and a cooking area. There are various servers moving from the cooking area to the tables, serving food continuously.
One person at a near table notices the group coming out of the citadel. They nudge the person next to them and point. Quickly the word spreads and once again a cheer goes up from the group. The lead guard leads the way to the head table on the stage where there are enough seats for everyone. Two servers quickly appear, ready to provide you with food and drink.
Pompous Marcus Maximus AC 25 CMD 23/18, HP 77/77 Position M2 (Yves) Thursday March 23rd, 2017 8:06:18 PM
Pompous, looking almost regal in his polished chain mail and pristine uniform. His short sword slung in it''s scabbard to his side, A tight, blond, flat top hair cut and shaved chiseled features makes him look quite handsome. Pompous takes a seat with the others at the table.
Trayvin AC 22/13 touch Hp 62/70(BrianZ) Thursday March 23rd, 2017 9:34:38 PM
Trayvin is a bit out of place. A soldier's life is a humble one, except where equipment was concerned. And growing up his family didn't make much room for 'fancy' stuff. He is not ashamed of who he is though, and smiles broadly, displaying his tusks. "Thank you lads, some food and drink would be welcome. Err Nikolai, they might be expecting some sort of speech from one of us."
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 67/89 Character Sheet d20+10=16 ; Thursday March 23rd, 2017 9:42:21 PM
Sigvar has chosen the dres uniform that Anna was so kind to conjure for him. He really wanted his armor, but upon seeing the crowd, the open floor and the close quarters is glad to have not worn the bulky armor. His warbraid swishes from side to side as he takes in the assembled crowd. He first looks for threats, namely the green witch woman. When he does not see her he begins to note faces he saw earlier in the day, both at the meeting, and in the crowd afterward. They seem genuinely glad to see the Agents, so he returns their smiles and cheers with a broad smile of his own. Perception 16 He takes the seat set out for him, it could be meant for none other in the group, since it is made to hold someone his size. He places an order with one of the servers, ale for now, and meat vegetables and bread along with wine for the meal. He smiles and chats with those that wish to speak to him and tries his best to be on his best behavior.
Sigvar is wearing a dress uniform, his long sword, and his ring of protection. This makes his AC 14, 13 touch and 11 Flat footed
AC 25 T 18 F 18 CMD 25. 29v Bull Rush or Trip; HP 71/ 71 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday March 23rd, 2017 9:44:46 PM
Tinker gives a wave to the crowd. It's not polished but genuine. As the squires seem attentive, Tinker quietly asks for an ale and full plate. He's used to trail rations or the common mess, so is not really choosy about what kind of food is available!
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Thursday March 23rd, 2017 11:57:45 PM
Nikolai is still tired from their long trip and fight from the morning, then spending a whole afternoon perusing the library records, but plays the part expected of him. His dress uniform has barely been worn but it fits just fine, life on the trail keeps one trim and fit. He follows right behind the lead guards. He is so used to not wearing any armor or carrying much in terms of weaponry that it does not occur to him how the others will manage in that area and follows gracefully on.
The size of the crowd is a surprise to him though. When was the last time the Mailed Fist honored a Fist in this manner? Not in his memory! Perhaps when Neutronis became Knight Commander? Certainly didn't have any such thing when Commander Palance became Knight Commander. Would not have been appropriate considering the circumstances.
Things is, many Fists have worked hard and suffered much. They were just in the right place at the right time and it didn't seem quite right to get this much praise. On the other hand, it was kind of fun. For those that stare at them or wave and such, he waves back with a big smile.
He sits at the place indicated for him and first politely orders a mild drink and an appetizer, preferring to hit the heavy stuff later.
Prudence Gundle Friday March 24th, 2017 12:12:12 AM
Pru is surprised and delighted by the size of the crowd. She takes her time making her way through the room--stopping to exchange greetings and to chat with anyone she knows, and probably a few people she's never met. She is determined to enjoy every minute of this.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/20 - HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Friday March 24th, 2017 1:14:56 AM
Anna spent some time in the afternoon polishing her mithral plate. With her unique history of being a Druid turned Morphling through the magic of Ma'ab and starting out as an at large special agent, then joining the Shark company before getting re-assigned to Nikolai's Fist where she would later have her transformation she never really got a dress outfit of her own, but she really doesn't like being without her armor unless she is sleeping so she splits the difference and pulls a Tabard from the bag of tricks (OOC: valued at 5 gp per ultimate equipment which puts it equal in value to scholar outfit or cleric vestments so let me know what I should use for reskinning) for herself that bears the heraldry of Wolf Company and Nikolai's Fist. She is wearing the Tabard over her armor for the formal dinner.
She orders a meed from the server that Sigvar had flagged down for herself.
DM JeffO Friday March 24th, 2017 11:43:43 AM
The group takes their seats at the table and finds no shortage of servers or ale. Beyond the regular servers are the occasional guest who wanders up to the table to talk with the heroes. A rather large, buxom woman with bright red hair and a dress that shows off many of her assets appears beside Pompous and offers him a large, frothy mug of ale while winking at him. A couple children that might be brother and sister scamper up and around Trayvin, then stare openly at his tusks before they run off under the table. A finely dressed fellow approaches Sigvar and starts talking about investments in the land outside the town and how he believes the success of the Fist will help expand his business. Tinker is served a rather large plate of some meat with a single potato by a young female gnome who bows to him as she serves him. The twins spot Anna from their location at the bar and take turns looking at her and trying to find Pru in the crowd. Meanwhile Pru works the crowd and is extremely well-received. Everyone wants to talk to her and be able to claim that they knew her.
Nikolai ends up with a seat next to Commander Palence. She engages him in some small talk for a bit, then stands, raising her hands for attention. It takes a few moments, but eventually the music stops and people start looking around. Palence steps up to the podium at the side of the stage and addresses the crowd.
“Today we are here to honor Nikolai’s Fist and their recent adventures. But their adventures have unearthed some of the past of the Fist, and I would like to share some of that story with all of you here. A long time ago, there was a powerful, magical woman that lived in the area east of here. No one ever knew her name, but she called herself ‘Madam Wizard.’ She had started to claim the middle lands of the peninsula of Farguina as her own. She dared others to try and claim her land. She was more powerful than the local governments, and she knew it. She did what she pleased, when she pleased. As she watched the towns give in to her, she planned to take over the entire peninsula and then, perhaps the world. She wanted more power and saw conquering others as a way to feel powerful.
“While the individual towns could not fight her, eventually a group of mayors got together and pooled their resources. They managed to put together just enough money to hire the Mailed Fist to send a group to stop this woman. The Fist sent a small group to attack her when she was out visiting ‘her’ lands. The group was quickly destroyed as the Fist had greatly underestimated her power. She was wounded, however, and headed back to her stronghold, a keep to the east of God City.
“The mailed fist wanted revenge and required no additional payment. They sent a large force to fight her at her keep. She was prepared for them and a long battle ensued. After days of fighting, the battle was a draw -- the Fist could not penetrate her defenses, but she could not come out to the battlefield and defeat the Fist, either. The Fist called on all their magical powers and people and executed a tactical feint -- the martial forces drew her in one direction while the magical powers snuck up on the keep from behind. With their combined forces, the Fist managed to create a huge magical explosion that utterly destroyed the keep and all those within. The keep was levelled and the Fist ensured nothing survived from the battle. The stones were scattered and the location of the keep was forgotten. Only a small depression and a few blocks remained at the site of the keep.
“However, we have now learned through the efforts of the Fist, that the spirit of Madame Wizard was not completely defeated. She had not completed her plan for dominating the peninsula. After the magical blast, it took many years, but finally her spirit had combined and created a dreaded witchfire. She had risen from the ashes of the old, forgotten keep, and she has not forgotten those who had destroyed her mortal body -- the Mailed Fist.
“This is the green woman that some of you saw here today and that Nikolai’s Fist destroyed. She had worked to gather a number of allies to work with her including mythical beasts and even a dragon! She would have continued her undead rampage and would have likely enslaved and taken over the entire peninsula as her own! For that, we salute these Fist members this evening.”
The commander makes a gesture and a number of additional guards step forward. They lift their arms and show they have medals on ribbons to place around each of the members at the table. The commander speaks again, “The Fist honors these members with the Legion of Merit, and all Fist members will treat them with the greatest honor and respect due such an award from this time forward.” As the medals are placed on each member the commander finishes with, “I give you Nikolai’s Fist of Wolf Company!” The crowd erupts with applause and soon they are all standing and clapping, some clapping their hands on their mugs of ale. A few cries of “Speech, speech!” are heard throughout the crowd.
Trayvin AC 22/13 touch Hp 62/70(BrianZ) Friday March 24th, 2017 9:21:48 PM
Hmmph. He knew it. Somebody was gonna have to give a speech. But it wasn't going to be himself. Trayvin wasn't sure what was worse, facing down an undead creature or facing down the adoring crowd. He lifts his freshly filled mug of ale, and waits for an Agent to give a speech.
AC 25 T 18 F 18 CMD 25. 29v Bull Rush or Trip; HP 71/ 71 "Tinker" (SteveK) Saturday March 25th, 2017 8:27:06 AM
Tinker Lanliss and relaxes when the recruit serving him turns out to be a gnome: finally a social situation where he was comfortable! He bows in return, the formal gnome greeting of a senior to junior in the same profession, a mark of respect and the dwarf begins a conversation in gnomish. "Good of you to meet. My foster family is living in Trader's Corner, east side of Culverwood. ". And the light reparte continues.
He is fascinated in Palance's story, making so many things more clear from their recent days. "She must have heard of our actions with Gerard and saw her opportunity. And the rest matches the Commander's Story. "
The medals make the normally taciturn dwarf silent again. Silent in awe. The LEGION OF MERIT??? He never thought, he couldn't think... Standing when told, the silk ribbon and heavy medal rests on his chest, and Tinker can feel its weight; the weight of responsibility. He glances at the young gnome who served him and knows the eyes of every Trooper will always be on him and his battle-buddies from now on. So, time to stop thinking only of himself and mechanical puzzles!
Tinker is the first one to the podium! His bass voice reverberates in a controlled parade ground cadence to be heard anywhere in the pavilion. "We live for the Fist, we die for the Fist. That's our motto, but the Mailed Fist teaches more than that, it IS more than that. Listen to the story from commander Palence and the story's of the Agents recent fights and you will see what I mean."
"We take care of our own. To pay back the actions taken against us, or in retribution for evil done in our name, we take care of our own!"
"We find a way to win. Working with strategic allies like the battle of Aithimar, tactical maneuvers like the battle at Madam Wizard's Keep, or this morning when you keep on your feet and working to win after covered by magical green fire or with nothing but a dagger... we find a way to win!"
Tinker steps back and goes to 'parade rest', allowing another Agent to speak.
Prudence Gundle Saturday March 25th, 2017 11:12:28 AM
Pru is having a grand time. She reminds herself that jumping excitedly up and down on her toes is not proper behavior for a member of the Fist. Neither is whooping with joy when presented with a medal. She strives for dignity, but her grin is all but incandescent. She cheers Tinker's speech, but does not attempt one of her own.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/20 - HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Sunday March 26th, 2017 12:59:27 PM
Anna waves at the twins from her table with the Agents and then listens attentively while the commander tells them the story of Madam Wizard.
She stands to accept her Legion of Merit medal and then decides to address the crowd after Tinker had finished although the Dwarf is certainly a tough act to follow.
However she wouldn't be a good emissary for her Lady, her Lady's consort nor the fist if she did not take this opportunity and she has just the words to tie everything together.
"Thank you, everyone!" Anna says. "The Fist has certainly been going through a difficult time lately in the aftermath of the invasion of Alithmar. It is fortunate indeed that we were allowed to atone for our actions instead of being disbanded and so far we have been doing an exemplary job. Lord Eberyon was also permitted to atone by my Lady Queen Ma'ab and a group of adventurers and he too is proving worthy of that trust. I have personally gone through a transformation granted by my lady when I became a Morphling and so too has the Fist been transformed for the better in our efforts to make up for Neutronis's folly. The story of Madam Wizard proves that not all transformations are good though. Madam Wizard was transformed in death into that spiteful green hag wreathed in green flame who wanted nothing more than to see us all destroyed. We should take this time to reflect on transformations and moving forward always strive to change into a better version of ourselves. If we do this moving forward, there is nothing The Mailed Fist cannot achieve!"
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 67/89 Character Sheet Sunday March 26th, 2017 8:52:32 PM
Sigvar is floored by the presentation of the medal. He had seen Fists do great things, fight unwinnable battles and still prevail and yet he never thought HE would be awarded for doing his job. He sits back down after the award, incapable of putting his feelings into words. As he listens to the others speak he holds and rubs the holy symbol around his neck. Mom would be proud. They faced an undead abomination and destroyed it. In doing so they spread the fame of the Fist and nudged it closer to being what it once was. Trusted, elite, and unstoppable. His heart fills with pride and he feels his honor regained after slinking along following Neutronius just to survive.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Sunday March 26th, 2017 10:32:53 PM
Nikolai enjoys the feast and merriment but keeps an eye on the twins. This does not distract him though, and he receives the medal with pride. They protected not only the citizens of Citadel Town, but their own commander as well. He would have liked to have stayed closer to home hunting down the Son's of Pavilion but were sent far away on a more vital mission. Doing jobs here and there and getting fame out there is one thing, but defending one's own home is much more gratifying.
The story of Madam Wizard tied off some loose ends but he was not entirely satisfied. If she died once and her spirit reformed, it could happen again in another hundred years. They need to visit the ruins of her castle and verify there was no receptacle her spirit could return to and start over again.
He listened to his friends' speeches and did not think he could add to it but felt that the Thumb should say something. He waits until all have had a chance to speak before standing and giving his own.
"The Mailed Fist thanks the citizens of this town for their support in the past year. It has been hard on the organization, but you good people who have lived here for generations know the true spirit of the Mailed Fist and stuck by us. Today, we were tasked to protect you from a villainous foe, who's target was indiscriminate and some of you suffered loss. We lament that deeply.
In our work we do garner enemies. That can't be helped. But we have an obligation to protect you from them as much as the Citadel and we promise to continue to do our best. But because of the nature of our business, it also lies upon you to keep an ever watchful eye on possible dangers entering our town. Never hesitate to bring to our attention anything you see that is suspicious.
So, here is a toast to YOU, good citizens, for all that you do for the success of the Mailed Fist!"
He holds up his drink and takes a large gulp in honor of the town.
DM JeffO Monday March 27th, 2017 11:56:38 AM
Tinker makes the first speech and then stands back to cheers to allow the others to speak. When he does, the gnome he spoke with slips up behind him and whispers in his ear, “I am Brenna.” She steps back, not sure if she’s allowed to talk to him while he is standing there, looking important, but she does not move far away.
Pru tries to hold herself in check when receiving the medal, but her huge smile gives her away. Anna steps up to the podium next to speak for the Fist and Ma’ab. The crowd cheers again when she is done. Sigvar sits down, overwhelmed. As he fingers the holy symbol, he feels another hand over his own and realizes the redheaded woman is still there, arm now around him, holding his hand.
Nikolai next addresses the crowd and is a hit. With his toast, the crowd explodes and there are clinks, clanks, and outright smashes of mugs as everyone toasts to the Fist and everyone and everything else they can think of. Palence nods to him in approval. The feast continues and the music starts back up. A few people, perhaps those who started earlier, wander out to the open space and start dancing to the music. The attendants are still quite attentive to those at the head table, quickly refilling any mugs that reach the halfway point. More food is brought from the nearby food pits to keep plenty of food on the table and plates. You can sense it has been a long time since this town has really had a good celebration, or perhaps even anything to celebrate.
Pompous Marcus Maximus AC 25 CMD 23/18, HP 77/77 Position M2 (Yves) Monday March 27th, 2017 8:17:25 PM
Having only joined the group in the most recent battle, Pompous really doesn't have much to say. While it's nice to have his wondrous skills acknowledge. His tremendous bravery revered. His unparalleled good looks fawned over by the dozens and dozens of admirers. Pompous chooses to demonstrate his modesty, eat, drink, and enjoy the evening without making any of his well crafted and skillful speeches.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 67/89 Character Sheet d20+10=11 ; d20=11 ; Monday March 27th, 2017 9:23:55 PM
Sigvar is startled. How did this woman get so close to him without him noticing her? She must be a skilled server to be so close and yet unobtrusive. He smiles at her but returns to his enjoyment of the party. He tries to keep an eye on her and decide what she was up to. Perception 11 Sense Motive 11
Trayvin AC 22/13 touch Hp 62/70(BrianZ) Monday March 27th, 2017 9:24:55 PM
Trayvin takes in the sights and sounds of the revelry while enjoying some food and drink. Enjoy it now he thinks, soon enough it will be time to go back to work.
Prudence Gundle Monday March 27th, 2017 10:10:45 PM
Pru hastily swallows a few bites of food, because tonight is all about the dancing. She joins the revelers on the floor, stepping and twirling and hopping as energetically as anyone. Her thick braid swings behind her; her eyes sparkle; her cheeks are flushed. She is having a grand time.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Monday March 27th, 2017 11:27:11 PM
Nikolai watches the fun festivities and finally wrestles up the courage to join the dancing. At home, parties had dancing and he had fun. There was this one girl... but here, it has been work, work, work, so much that he felt out of place on the dance floor.
Watching Pru having fun, though, was enough to bring himself back to his younger days some few years ago.
He takes a deep breath and catches Pru at a slower moment and asks her, "We spend so much time together warding off danger and fighting evil, how about this one dance together? Er, it would look good that we not only fight well together but get along well when the pressure is off. Hummm... right?" he grins with a very red faced blush.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/20 - HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Monday March 27th, 2017 11:59:03 PM
Anna enjoys the festivities. She eats, drinks and is merry. She joins Pru in dancing catching the twins and doing a double dance with them & Pru.
When Nikolai asks Pru to dance Anna walks up to Pompous and says, "May I have this dance, brave sir ranger? We've only just started working together but the best way to get a measure of someone is either through dance or combat. We've experienced some of the latter now how about some of the former. I don't bite...at least not in this form." She says playfully teasing the archer.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Tuesday March 28th, 2017 12:02:29 AM
Michael has been quiet during all of this. but a quiet pride and joy suffuses his being. He is deeply honored by the inclusion into the Legion of Merit, it is the greatest honor he has ever received. when the time comes to speak he pulls up a chair and does so.
Hail! my brothers and sisters! For you are my family! If Duty and Honor fail to hold our family strong then surely the blood we have shed for each other must! A wise man once said that Kings fight for power, Priests fight for souls, and Mercenaries fight for money! but I tell you now that while we receive coin for our work, when the chips are down, the flanks are threatened and the heavy horse are approaching fast! It is not money that we fight for! It is for the men and women beside us that we fight! We of the Mailed Fist are the finest army in the entire Wold! Our Honor is stong, it was forged in blood, our Duty is Iron forged in the heat of battle! Some of you here, will make the Fist your home and some of you here will one day return to your hamlets and farms. but make no mistake, you are not the same person you were. You that have seen what you've seen! You that have done what you have done! You honor us with this party, it's an honor to be part of the Legion of Merit. but all I can say besides thank you is this. I was just doing my job. Any of you, ordered to do as we have been ordered could have done the same thing. it just so happens that our skills were needed for the tasks at hand. I seriously doubt that the commander would have ordered us to besige a keep or guard a wagon train or bolster a lards line troops. We would if ordered, surely, but one of the things that makes the Mailed Fist great is that we know how to place our people in the most effective and efficient way possible. So heres to you my Comrades! He hoists his tankard of ale into the air. May the gods smile forever on the Mailed Fist
DM JeffO Tuesday March 28th, 2017 9:34:38 AM
The dancing and the celebrations continue into the night. Michael rises and gives another rousing toast and there are more mugs of ale slammed together. The ale supplies do seem to be quite neverending at this celebration. The music continues and all the people rejoice. The dancing starts up and a couple of the Fist join in the dancing and celebrations as well. Sigvar tries to watch what the large redheaded woman is doing and she takes it as a good sign. She slides around his side and tries to work his way onto his lap (Sense motive reveals that she likes Sigvar…). Commander Palence continues to remain seated for the most part, content to watch. The normally very stoic commander often smiles as the night continues along. A number of people come up to her to speak to her, as they do to many of the Fist. It does appear to be a night where no one is truly unhappy here.
Pompous Marcus Maximus AC 25 CMD 23/18, HP 77/77 Position M2 (Yves) Tuesday March 28th, 2017 5:01:11 PM
Pompous smiles at Anna's request and gleefully shows her his impeccable dance skills. The ranger definitely likes his new team and especially the females....
AC 25 T 18 F 18 CMD 25. 29v Bull Rush or Trip; HP 71/ 71 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday March 28th, 2017 5:16:28 PM
Tinker listens to his companions speak (he doesn't think of them as speeches) and his heart is full. Late into the night, he eats and drinks and speaks with Brenna about home and crafting and other loves of life. He watches his friends dance and carouse, content to watch and not participate!
It is a very good day.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 67/89 Character Sheet Tuesday March 28th, 2017 7:38:17 PM
Sigvar slides his chair out a little, giving the redhead a chance to sit on his lap if that is what she wants so much. He continues to enjoy the feast and watch his fistmates revel and enjoy themselves. This was more common he thinks in the Bear company, but they were less reserved. They displayed their happiness at surviving a rough contract with a huge feast that was, well, less restrained than this one.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/20 - HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Tuesday March 28th, 2017 8:43:02 PM
Anna enjoys her dance with Pompous, he is a skilled dancer and she is as impressed with his dance moves as she was his bow work. A ranged attack specialist will certainly come in handy considering most of the other group is focused on melee.
Trayvin AC 22/13 touch Hp 62/70(BrianZ) Tuesday March 28th, 2017 8:54:07 PM
Trayvin enjoys the food and drink, but he goes a bit easy on the drink. The soldier in him doesn't want to fully relax.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday March 28th, 2017 10:24:03 PM
Pru's smile grows even wider when Nikolai asks her to dance. "Of course!" she exclaims, catching his hands eagerly.
Nikolai said one dance, but Pru attempts to stretch that to two, and then to three, and then to four.....
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday March 28th, 2017 11:27:40 PM
The night suddenly got a bit warmer as Pru takes his hands and they both twirl to the music. At home, this would have been an easy dance, with Pru, Nikolai is so worried he'll step on her toes he has trouble enjoying the first dance. When it is over he starts to pull away but feels Pru hanging on, to his relief. He relaxes and finally finds himself. The music is marvelous and he hopes Pru is having as much fun as he is.
'Thank you Pru. You are a marvelous dancer. Much better than I. I'm afraid though that I deprived dances with others that you may have wanted to dance with. I hope I have not been too clumsy to spoil your evening," he says, haltingly as he searches for the right words as a strange euphoria clouds his mind.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Tuesday March 28th, 2017 11:43:23 PM
Michael spots Qualtmie the quartermaster sipping a drink and kind of off by herself. he hops down from the chair and runs over to her. he takes her by the hand and smiles Care to dance ma'am? he laughs as he gently pulls her onto the dance floor.
DM JeffO Wednesday March 29th, 2017 1:13:51 PM
The dances continue. The Fist and the town has a good night and there aren’t even any fights. Some of the Fist get to know one another better and Sigvar has a new friend that starts whispering in his ear sweet nothings. Tinker has met a gnome that reminds him of home. Michael gets a little closer to Qualtmie as well. Eventually, the night starts to grow long. The commander tries to stifle a yawn, but eventually takes her leave, telling those around her that she will see them in the morning. Some of the people seem determined to spend the entire night at the party, while others start making their way back to their homes.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 67/89 Character Sheet Wednesday March 29th, 2017 5:07:18 PM
Knowing that he will still need to rise in the morning, Sigvar is wise enough to not stay all night. He speaks to the woman throughout the party though finding out about her and relating things about himself. When the hour starts to grow late he takes his leave after getting her name and finding out how to contact her. He knows he will need to rest because in the morning he begins his training in how to better use his allies flanking ability to expose weaknesses in his opponents.
Trayvin AC 22/13 touch Hp 62/70(BrianZ) Wednesday March 29th, 2017 8:54:09 PM
Trayvin ducks out after the Commander leaves. Probably not going to offend anyone since she left first. In the morning it would be back to work. The party may be over but there were many loose ends to tie up.
AC 25 T 18 F 18 CMD 25. 29v Bull Rush or Trip; HP 71/ 71 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday March 29th, 2017 9:05:13 PM
Tinker knows to not leave a gathering until the Commander leaves; that's tradition! But he's also not a party animal, so says goodnight to Brenna and slips out with Sigvar, companionably walking back to the tower; the Minotaur and dwarf.
"Glad you are staying with us", he says to Sigvar.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Wednesday March 29th, 2017 10:26:38 PM
Michael notices the Commander leave. My dear, the hour grows late, My commander has retired and it behooves me to follow her lead. I would see you again if you would have me, if not, This night has been wonderful, and you are a dream, I am content. he leans in for a kiss, if she stiffens he pecks her on the cheak, if she melts he follows through. Then he is away! his pallet underneath the bed is calling him and all things told this has been a wonderful day!
Prudence Gundle Thursday March 30th, 2017 12:01:35 AM
"Oh, but there wasn't! Anybody else...um, that I wanted...to um...." Pru's declaration starts out strong, but trails off and she begins blushing furiously. "I mean, that was fun. I mean, you're a good dancer." Suddenly, she is aware of how much hair has escaped her braid with all her flinging about. And true, Nikolai has seen her covered in ash and gnoll guts, but this is different somehow. Hastily, she smooths her hair. "Uh, we should...we should do that again. Sometime."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Thursday March 30th, 2017 12:03:09 AM
Nikolai realizes that if any of them are to be coherent for their meeting with their commander in the morning, it's time to let this night end. After their current dance, he kisses Pru on the back of her hand and tries his best to express how wonderful the evening was for him and how he hoped it was likewise for her.
"Alas, work begins anew in the morning. We don't want the new heroes disheveled and bleary eyed for the Commander, now do we?" he tries to grin as he gives Pru a hug and sets to follow the rest of the Fist to their quarters.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/20 - HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Thursday March 30th, 2017 1:14:25 AM
"Why thank you Pompous for the dance. I really enjoyed it." Anna says curtsying to the Ranger, "You really are a fine dancer, We'll have to do this again some time..."
Anna would have liked to stay at the party all night and maybe perhaps one day her lady will grant her another transformation, one in which she would no longer need sleep but that day has not yet arrived so she too heads to bed when the rest of her companions do so.
DM JeffO Thursday March 30th, 2017 10:08:58 AM
After the commander leaves, the group is quick to make their own exits. Sigvar entertains the woman who simply tells her, “Come on down to the dry duck and ask for Big Red. Anyone there can find me!” Before he can depart, she leaves him with a wet, sloppy kiss. Michael gives Qualtmie a kiss and then quickly departs. There are some other flames perhaps growing, that need attending, but the group decides to not spend the entire night out and heads for their quarters.
Morning comes early and sounds of birds chirping invade the sleeping chambers of the group. A new day has come for the newly minted heroes.
Pompous Marcus Maximus AC 25 CMD 23/18, HP 77/77 Position M2 (Yves) Thursday March 30th, 2017 8:05:22 PM
Pompous gets up, exercises, reads a bit; washes up, stares at himself in the mirror for a bit and then starts his day. " Time to make the donuts."
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 28 (T 13, FF 23) CMD 28 HP 67/89 Character Sheet Thursday March 30th, 2017 8:12:09 PM
Sigvar wakes with a full tummy and a contented feeling. He heads out to the practice yard and after going through his sword forms heads out to find his instructor for training in flanking tactics.
Trayvin AC 22/13 touch Hp 62/70(BrianZ) Thursday March 30th, 2017 9:38:59 PM
Trayvin washes up and then goes to the mess hall for breakfast. After overeating the previous night, he keeps the meal light. Selecting some fruit and a biscuit he eats while listening to see how everyone's night went.
AC 25 T 18 F 18 CMD 25. 29v Bull Rush or Trip; HP 71/ 71 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday March 30th, 2017 9:39:26 PM
Tinker wakes all at once, as is usual for the dwarf. Morning exercise, followed by a wash, breakfast, and then off to the armory to assist as he can with the armors and more specialized tools of the warrior and roguish trades.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Friday March 31st, 2017 12:03:25 AM
Nikolai notices that Pru seems just as nervous as he. Fortunately, his meditation training helps him keep his composure better and his nervousness hidden. "Yes, we should do this more often. Once a year at least," he smiles. "You did great Pru. You could put my dance moves to shame if you tried. Thanks for not humbling me too much."
Sleep does not come quickly, his mind turning the day over many times. The dancing with Pru crowding out his thoughts about Madam Witch and if she could possibly return. Exhaustion finally takes over and he falls asleep.
He wakes at reveille and spends the first hour in meditation getting his daily spells ready, then heads to the mess hall for breakfast. Despite the feast the night before he eats heartily. You never now when your next meal will be. Then, after a quick clean up, he gathers the rest of the Fist and heads towards the commander's office.
Prudence Gundle Friday March 31st, 2017 12:20:46 AM
Pru floats rather than walks back to the barracks, or at least that's how it feels. In the morning, she makes sure to tidy her hair before going to breakfast. She makes sure to cast Extended Mage Armor on Nikolai, because it's their standard procedure. And it's a touch spell, which is a nice bonus.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/20 - HP 66/66 -- CMD 17 Friday March 31st, 2017 12:51:08 AM
Anna wakes refreshed the next morning and idly strums on her darkwood guitar a bit before heading down to the mess hall for breakfast.
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