Official Adventurers (DM Cayzle) Friday October 9th, 2015 1:04:03 AM
Micah loses his inihibitions and enjoys the flight. Elspeth laughs and says he should return later in the year for the first ever “Thunderbuster Race.” That is, if she can find a suitable mage to help her create the magic carpet. But they cost alot and she doesn’t have a sponsor.
"But I think any obstacle can be overcome with the right positivity," she says.
On the other hand, Koh, Stohp, and Pesmer, each in their way, declares that the fun must end and the party has to head on to the Palace.
Roland and Norr concur, with Roland adding a dry but funny comment on his friends' weak tummies.
Elspeth pouts for a second, but delivers the group up to the Palace. You debark at the fancy landing entrance, all golden and impessive. After explanations, you are escorted by palace guard to the Minister of Public Safety who will register you.
Isilshara Aluth is an elf of advanced age, but still very beautiful. She is very gentle and not the typical bureaucrat.
"Ah, a new adventuring group, TWO this month. You're the second group this month."
She charges you 1gp each, via a handwritten scroll that she and the party signs and that is that.
"And the name of your group is?"
[OOC: What do you use as your group name? You do not have to decide for sure right now, but you have to tell Official Aluth something!]
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 8/8 AC:12/12/10 d20+5=15 ; Friday October 9th, 2015 3:59:32 AM
As the disembark, Pesmer tells Elspeth, "I do not know where I will be later this year, but if I can help in any way with the Thunderbuster Race, please send me a notification as to when that date will be. Who knows.. Maybe I will be the mage who sponsors you myself." He smiles, telling her that they are staying at The Fatted Calf Tavern in case she does wish to send him an invitation around that time of the races.
Arriving at the Palace, Pesmer enjoyed the sight of the golden entrance, not used to seeing such refined taste in architecture. Meeting Isilshara Aluth was a real treat for Pesmer as he was expecting the bureaucrats to be snobbish and rude. Yet, she was very much the opposite as she spoke to the party. When asked to pay the 1gp, he signed the paperwork as he happily handed the piece of gold to her.
Curious, Pesmer would ask Isilshara, "Two? We are the second? If I may ask.. What is the name of the first group that came through here?" (Diplomacy check= 15)
"Name of our group?" He blinked a few times as he hadn't thought about such a thing. Turning to his friends to hear their suggestions, he was rather curious as to see what name everyone would bring to the table. "We can go with something like... The Dragons Claw... The Horde From The Fence.. Ooh, Oooh.. What about.. The Guild of Tomorrow. Mysterious, no?" Pesmer snickers to himself as names for the group come in waves to his mind, rather enjoying this moment.
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 Friday October 9th, 2015 4:12:36 AM
Quietly, Koh plunks the empty bowl on the counter, still weak in the legs. She's still gathering her wits, and her fortitude, and all of herself really. Let's see. How about. "...The Rat-Pack." Just two words that sound fun together. And their first experience together was with rats.
Ugh, rats. She still looks sickly.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 9/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 Friday October 9th, 2015 11:04:20 AM
Stohp gives the palace a critical eye. It's fancy and pretty, but she finds it a bit ostentatious. At the mention of a name for the group she's surprised. "Name? Most of us have barely known each other for 24 hours, how are we supposed to have a name? No offence but this whole "adventuring party" thing seems a bit premature to me, all we've done is killed a few rats in a bar. Maybe after we've actually foiled the supposed plot we might count."
Still she accepts the paper and hands over the gold with a minimum of grumbling. If everyone's going to take this so seriously she should probably get some actual adventurer training too. She remembers the talk at the Ghost last night of the Adventurers Guild, maybe they should pay a visit there next.
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 d20+6=26 ; Friday October 9th, 2015 2:55:20 PM
Roland is also curious of the second adventuring party that has registered here "Who were these other adventurers? Do you happen to know anything about them or the work they've been doing?" As for a name for the group, Roland hadn't put much thought into it " I do like the sound of the Rat Pack, tells a bit about how we got our start. Personally I think we should wait before we make a name for ourselves, we shouldn't be making such a important decision on a whim "
(26 Diplomacy to gather information about the other adventuring group)
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 Friday October 9th, 2015 5:18:07 PM
Norr receives and signs the paper, handing over a gold piece. "Actions speak louder than words. Any name suits me."
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Friday October 9th, 2015 11:49:55 PM
Agrippa attempts to hide her anxiety while signing the paper. Amongst all the suggestions, she throws in her two cents; "How abou' the Black Sheep?" In lieu of her suggestion falling flat, she will also suggest, "Should we write 'em all down and draw one randomly?"
Official Adventurers (DM Cayzle) Saturday October 10th, 2015 12:03:08 AM
Isilshara Aluth chuckles. "Adventurers have trouble thinking of names. The other group could not decide on anything at all. I put down 'TBD' on the form."
So, Rat Pack? TBD? Something else?
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 8/8 AC:12/12/10 Saturday October 10th, 2015 7:09:23 AM
Pesmer listens to his fellow friends before chiming in again. "I say just put us as TBD for right now till we can all decide on a group name. As Stohp and Roland have stated, we barely know each other. Lets spend some group time together before deciding such an important thing."
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 d20+6=17 ; Sunday October 11th, 2015 5:07:59 PM
Micah nods his assent as Pesmer suggests we wait on a name.
Noticing that Isilshara did not answer inquiries regarding the other group, he also tries to get more information. "Madam, are groups applying all the time or is our arrival concurrent with this other group unusual? I realize my perspective is somewhat provincial, but it seems unusual to me. Is there anything you can tell us about this other group? Also, how long do we have to agree upon a final name?"
(Diplomacy 17)
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 Monday October 12th, 2015 5:43:51 PM
And TBD sounds good to Koh right now. She realizes they may be flying back, and she's preparing herself for it.
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 d20-1=12 ; Monday October 12th, 2015 6:12:10 PM
Norr gives his tacit approval to "TBD" as he attempts to appear presentable in a regal palace. (Charisma roll 12)
Official Adventurers (DM Cayzle) Monday October 12th, 2015 6:41:36 PM
The party decides to put off the group name decision. The bureaucrat offers the papers to sign and takes a gold coin from each of you. Your DM assumes you agree to this unless you state otherwise.
Once the formalities are out of the way, Isilshara is happy to dish some gossip. The other group is powerful, made up of imports from other places. They have been having adventures out on the lake. Or under it, she hears, maybe?
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+5=19 ; Monday October 12th, 2015 8:59:01 PM
Agrippa wonders to herself, The Undetermined also has a nice ring to it. Taking a deep breath, she'll ask Aluth in her polite voice, "So, just curious, what happens to groups who fail to register?" (Diplomacy = 19)
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 9/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 d20+5=10 ; Monday October 12th, 2015 10:01:05 PM
Stohp gets bored with the conversation and stops paying attention. As a kid she lived on stories of daring feats and skilled adventurers, but those days have long past. Now she's finding herself far more interested in the furniture. The chair she sat in to fill out the paperwork is extremely comfy, extremely sturdy, and clearly built by a master. She gives it a thorough examination, wishing she was as skilled with woodcraft. One of these days...
(Craft: Carpentry check)
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 d20+7=18 ; Monday October 12th, 2015 10:11:30 PM
Roland thanks Isilshara for the information about the other group, and goes on to ask about rumors other adventurers have been bringing to the Float. " Have any of the other adventurers been hearing rumors on the Fence Level? Why haven't they been taking up the quest to clear out the Float? " Even if the Float is looked on as a low area with no repute, there must be some sort of adventuring party who would take the cause, for the gold at least.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 8/8 AC:12/12/10 Tuesday October 13th, 2015 7:30:10 AM
Pesmer was interested in Agrippa and Roland's questions as he listened in on what they all had to say. It was most curious why no one else was jumping at this occasion of helping out The Fence level. Not wishing to bog down Isilshara with even more curious questions, Pesmer was content to listen and learn what he could as the others asked their questions.
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 Tuesday October 13th, 2015 3:28:20 PM
Micah decides there is not much more to accomplish here. He pays his part of the fee and politely makes moves toward departing.
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 Tuesday October 13th, 2015 4:51:51 PM
Norr begins to follow Micah's lead, but he is distracted by Stohp. He spends several moments examining her examination of the chair.
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 Tuesday October 13th, 2015 7:12:05 PM
Koh quietly waves her hand in front of Stohp's face. No getting distracted by wooden objects. Again. This happens every time they enter a new building she could swear...
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 9/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 Wednesday October 14th, 2015 12:42:09 AM
Stohp frowns in annoyance at her sister. It's not like anyone is talking about anything important. She notices the Nor watching her and looks at him quizzically, an unspoken "What do you want?"
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Wednesday October 14th, 2015 1:00:19 AM
Agrippa is familiar with Ffloy-influenced architecture and pleasantries. She attempts to find anything that might have been influenced by the most high within these chambers.
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 d20+1=20 ; Wednesday October 14th, 2015 5:05:18 AM
Roland gives a confused look to the two Taur sisters " is something the matter? You seem much more interested in the furniture than our business here " He looks at the chair himself to see if there is anything of import to it
(DC 20 perception on the chair )
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 9/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 Wednesday October 14th, 2015 8:14:16 AM
Stohp looks equally confused. "I thought we finished our business and you guys where just gathering rumors now. Besides, look at this craftsmanship! I wish I could make things half as well."
Official Adventurers (DM Cayzle) Wednesday October 14th, 2015 8:42:23 AM
Agrippa has an interesting question: "So, just curious, what happens to groups who fail to register?"
Isilshara smiles. "As an adventuring group, you are protected from charges of vigilante-ism. If things get damaged, if people get hurt, even innocents, we know that you were doing your best as adventurers to help others."
"Those with mercenary motives, or with hidden agendas, are eventually found out, and abuse of adventurer status is a capital crime here in The Big Float."
Roland asks about the Fence Level. She explains that there are relatively few adventurers in the Float. Most head to the frontiers or to Plateau City. And those that are here tend to focus on the upper levels, where there is more prestige. She praises your determination to help the lower levels. "You are much needed there, regardless of what others might say," she tells Pesmer.
Norr, Stohp, Koh, and Micah make it clear that they are ready to leave.
Isilshara Hands you a scroll signed by herself that authorizes your new status. Your trip back to the Fence Level is uneventful. And now you have to decide where you are going next.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 9/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 d20+7=10 ; Wednesday October 14th, 2015 10:11:58 AM
Stohp tries to consider the situation fully as they head down to the Fence, examining all their options. She also tries to think of good places to gather information from (Knowledge: Local 10). Once they all arrive she gathers everyone around for a brainstorming session.
"It seems to me that it's time for us to start investigating. We don't really know anything about our targets except that they seem to be able to control rats. We don't really know who they are, how they're doing it, or how to find them. It's to dangerous to pursue them without more facts.
Personally, I think I'll head to the adventurers guild. They have the experience with this kind of thing and resources we could use to aide in our search." And, she thinks to herself, maybe they can offer some training so I don't feel so in over my head.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 8/8 AC:12/12/10 Wednesday October 14th, 2015 7:27:53 PM
Pesmer smiles at Isilshara's words, softly shaking her hand as he thanks her for what she has shared with them. With the group leaving and making their way back to the Fence Level, Pesmer has much to process as the group gathers to discuss.
"Hmmm.. I say we venture down to the lower levels and start digging around for information. Rats and Ratmen... My guess is that they came from the lower level and climbed their way to the fence level with some help. They have numbers but most likely not the resources and skill to gather together and strategically attack The Fence Level. Ask around the lower levels about strange meetings and shadows tiptoeing throughout the night and we might uncover something. I wouldn't mind stopping by the Adventures Guild if you think they can help." Pesmer throws his thoughts into the brainstorming session.
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 Wednesday October 14th, 2015 9:58:14 PM
Koh plays devil's advocate, mentioning, "May not be safe to questions...ah...questioning...lower level. Plus, some stick out like thumb sores." The idiom sounds right to her, at the very least. "Big city to search, too." Plus with lax authotity below the Fence level, they could just be killed with no remorse. Then again, she may be listening to old Taur's tales. "Maybe visit guild and see if spies available? Ah...agents? Secret people. Plus see what else can make use of."
Like training, she's thinking, after glancing to Stohp. Who is likely doubting herself once more.
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 Wednesday October 14th, 2015 11:22:01 PM
Micah realizes that he has been so distracted by the official requirements that a basic question has not been asked, "did anyone check the entry point of the rats from the kitchen? There appearance caught us all by surprise and they seemed fairly coordinated."
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 d20+7=9 ; Thursday October 15th, 2015 4:29:49 AM
At the brain storming session, Roland suggests that gathering up rumors around the fence could be pivotal to finding out where the ratfolk most have come from. "If these rat men made it up here there's bound to be people who know where they're coming from. I don't mind asking around the fence to see if anyone has seen anything, maybe they'll be willing to talk to legitimate adventurers."
Upon Micah's comment, Roland feels a pang of stupidity for not thinking of that himself. "You're right, someone with a good knowledge of those kitchens should take a look at where they could have entered from"
(9 to diplomacy to gather information )
Official Adventurers (DM Cayzle) Thursday October 15th, 2015 8:11:39 AM
Several of the new party wish to visit the Woldian League of Adventurers. The Floating City branch is higher than the Fence Level, though, and you doubt that they would know a lot about the more sordid dealings Below.
Still, it does not hurt to stop by. You learn that you can join for free, but you have to take an oath. And the dues do get steep as you become experienced adventurers. OOC: Please check out the Woldpedia Organizations Page for the WLA.
When you ask there about anything that might help, you can make a Know Local or Know Nature DC15 check to read what is in the Beastiary on dire rats and rat swarms. As for more specific knowledge, the best they can do is direct you to Happy and Grok, actually.
Micah has a flash of insight and realizes that you never did investigate the entry point of the rats into the kitchen at the Giggling Ghost.
Roland has the good idea of asking around the Fence. He has little success (sorry, poor roll), but he does hear again the story about the boy bitten by the rat. He recalls that at one point you discussed trying to find out where he lives, but you have not got around to it yet. Roland hears that rumor near the Fatted Calf, so maybe the boy lived on Lakeview Passage. Roland has not stopped by at the Calf, though.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 9/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 d20+7=17 ; Thursday October 15th, 2015 9:53:14 PM
Stohp decides to take the guild up on their offer to look at the bestiaries and gather as much information as she can on their foe (17 local check). While she does so, she considers the pros and cons of joining the guild. It's very tempting; if she's going to do this adventuring thing it'd be nice to have more experienced members of the guild to act as guides. She's not sure if she has time to sign up now though, the others are probably waiting for her.
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 d20=18 ; d20-3=4 ; Thursday October 15th, 2015 11:47:56 PM
Norr heads for the Calf, Grokk could know something and it's their meeting place so he reasons the rest will be heading there soon enough.
Upon arriving he attempts to track down Grokk, if the Minotaur is around he says. "So, we've registered and are at a bit of a loss for clues. Hear anything suspicious, boss?" (Diplomacy 4; ignore the other roll.)
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 Thursday October 15th, 2015 11:51:55 PM
Roland asks some of the group to accompany him to go see the young boy who has been bit by the rats. "If we're going to find out anything about these mysterious rats, this is the place to start. Who's with me?"
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 8/8 AC:12/12/10 d20+5=7 ; d20+5=10 ; Friday October 16th, 2015 2:51:28 AM
(I already made the Nature Roll for Rats and such from before so I assume I know what the Beastiary says about them. Let me know if I am wrong about that.)
Pesmer doesn't have too much interest in the Adventuring Guild as he has his sights on something far different in mind. As the group seems to split up and search about, Pesmer asks around for the location of branch of The Star Mage's Guild within The Float, hoping he could gain access and speak to a representative about joining. (Ignoring the second roll. I guess either the site glitched or my computer did and.. Shazam! Two rolls.)
When he has the information he needs, he will join up with the group once more as he speaks with group. "I think we should stop by and check out the tavern where the rats attacked us from first. Maybe we can find out how they infiltrated the place without being seen, then go to the boy's house who was bitten. Both places should give good clues as to what the rats are up to, me thinks."
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+5=22 ; Friday October 16th, 2015 4:40:33 AM
Her goosebumps fade as she returns to the lower levels. Agrippa can't help feeling like she needs a long bath after seeing such luxuries, smelling such perfumes, and even using a polite tone of voice. She checks her belongings just in case something was stolen or replaced.
Agrippa remembered the boy that she talked to the day before signing up. "Weren' we gonna ask the boy who was attacked where an' how the rats got 'em?" If the boy's location was on the way back, she would have attempted to contact him (Diplomacy = 22). She also agrees that checking out the kitchen is a keen idea.
(ooc: Just got internet back. Sorry I've been idle.)
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 d20-3=13 ; Friday October 16th, 2015 9:40:56 AM
Koh stops by with her sister at the WLA, deciding to see what they're about. It does sound nice, despite fees, and she considers the fact that if both her and Stohp joined, at least it would be something nice to do together. They don't...do as much together these days, with differing jobs.
She does relate to Stohp it may be good to check with Grokk if Norr was, and thus, heads for thataway - just so if they split, she'll know where to find Koh. Tomes aren't her expertise, so her sister can handle that.
--------------
Joining Norr at the Fatted Calf, Koh helps him out a little with talking. (Diplomacy 13) [Tauric]: "I know you didn't hire either of us because we were pretty, but everyone's doing a part here and this is ours right now. We know about a bitten boy, and some are checking the kitchens of that other place - got any tips, boss?"`
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 Friday October 16th, 2015 9:59:56 AM
With a wry grin on his face, Micah says to Roland, "Perhaps TBD should be our group name. The Bad Detectives".
Official Adventurers (DM Cayzle) Friday October 16th, 2015 6:41:53 PM
The WLA officer on duty hints strongly that if you want to use the facilities again, you have to actually sign up! If you are interested, There is an opening for interviews a week from Tuesday.
Pesmer asks around for the Star Mages Guild, but no one seems to have heard of it. [OOC: Sorry, whether that roll was Know Local or Gather Info, a 7 is not going to do it.]
Norr leads the party to the Fatted Calf and chats with Grok. First thing he says is, "Don't call me Boss! I'm not your boss any more!"
"In fact, now that you are guests, let me show you your rooms."
He has “booted” out some folks and moved them down the hall so you can be next to each other in neighboring rooms. He even shows you a way up to the roof from one of the rooms from a hidden stair around the corner of one of the balconies. “In case you need up and out for some reason.” He’s very conspiratorial in his manner (and you who had worked here had no clue about this).
Grok also tells Koh that he has heard nothing new since the attack at the Giggling Ghost, except that a a drunkard reported seeing a rat swarm on Lakeview Passage last night.
Grok tells Koh and Norr that they may have their jobs back if this venture doesn’t work out. But he hopes it does, for the good of Fence Level.
Micah cracks wise and teases the group about staying on task.
Agrippa reminds the group about the bit boy, and also wants to visit the kitchen at the GG.
Which first? Bit Boy is closer than the GG, since the Fatted Calf is just a few steps off Lakeview.
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Friday October 16th, 2015 11:33:38 PM "It's jus' a hunch..." Agrippa will shrug looking at her party. She isn't expecting the boy to be all that helpful, but if it's on the way, she'll go by herself (or with whomever wants to come) really quickly to talk to him, and head back to the GG afterwards. Taking off at a hustle (40 speed due to encumbrance), Agrippa will keep an eye on her possessions and within arms reach of any passer-byes.
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 Saturday October 17th, 2015 7:39:18 AM
With a wry grin on his face, Micah says to Roland, "Perhaps TBD should be our group name. The Bad Detectives".
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 8/8 AC:12/12/10 Saturday October 17th, 2015 5:56:28 PM
As Agrippa hustles off to meet up with the boy, Pesmer will follow from behind at a normal speed (speed of 30) as he doesn't see the need in sprinting there. He isn't sure who all else will be joining them but he is curious to see what tale this boy is to tell.
Official Adventurers (DM Cayzle) Monday October 19th, 2015 8:16:08 AM
The group follows the eager Agrippa to visit the family of the boy who was bitten.
The family, working class poor, lives above a shop on Lakeview Passage. That's actually pretty normal here on the Fence. The family consists of parents and two boys, one five, the other eight years old. It was the eight-year-old who was bit.
The party crowds into the small apartment, and the mom hands out biscuits and small cups of tea. It is clear that they are startled by the attention, and not sure what to make of it, but putting on their most courteous manners. The mom is especially embarrassed by her boy's dirty face.
The boy, named Ahnold, is excited to see you all, and keeps asking if he can hold one of your weapons. Sense Motive DC10: Highlight to display spoiler: {The mom clearly does not want that to happen.}
"Sure! Here, look!" The boy shows off a nasty bite that is red and swole up.
"That's where it bit me! This big ol' rat! Then I punched it! Like this!"
The boy shows off his punching moves.
"It was right around the corner in Baker Alley," he says.
Glancing aside at the mother, crouched so as not to hit her head, Koh chuckles at his enthusiasm. "Sounds like you already have best weapon mastered, youngling." She pumps an arm, showing off the muscle. "Get strong, and never need a weapon again! Works for me." Grinning a moment, she adds, poking a stump, "...and is why I shave horns. Do not need."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 9/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 Monday October 19th, 2015 7:00:39 PM
Stohp shows up at the Fatted Calf looking for the rest of the group. She's a bit embarrassed; just as she was leaving the AG she got distracted by a particularly well crafted bookshelf. He points her in the direction of the kid who was bitten and she hurries to catch up.
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 d20+7=15 ; d20+7=26 ; Monday October 19th, 2015 8:34:29 PM
Micah frowns at the swollen bite, but tries to hide it, finding Koh's attempt to honor the mother's unspoken wishes sufficient cause for a smile. "Young Ahnold, may I look at your battle wound more closely?" extending a calm hand to him. Then to his mother, "Do you mind if I care for this a bit?" With only a cursory wait for approval, he proceeds to inspect the bite, and pulls out his kit and applies a poultice to draw out the infection saying, "A brave one you are to face off this vicious vermin. Now bravery is needed still to face the treatment. Micah's touch is gentle but firm as needed.
Sense Motive 15 Heal 26
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 d20+7=21 ; d20+1=3 ; Monday October 19th, 2015 8:44:17 PM
Roland laughs at the quip Micah has about the name of our group. " Yes that would be quite the fitting title for us " Roland will be following at pace with Pesmer to the boys'residence, chatting a bit to learn about this lighthearted wizard in his party " So my friend, when did you start practicing the art of magic? It must be quite the adventure to be learning such a difficult art " At the boys house, Roland goes about asking the young boy about the incident " where did the rats come from? Do you happen to know any place they might have been hiding? " Roland is fine letting the boy take a glance at his sledge, seeing there being no risk of him cutting himself on the hefty cube of steel at the top. ( 21 to diplomacy, 3 to sense motive )
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 d20=9 ; Monday October 19th, 2015 10:48:11 PM
Norr enters the humble abode, accepting the hospitality the boy's parents have to offer. He allows Roland to offer the child his hammer, seeing no reason to stop these proceedings as he helps himself to some of the biscuits.
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 Monday October 19th, 2015 10:49:09 PM
(Forgot to put Sense Motive 9. Sorry! ^^)
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 8/8 AC:12/12/10 d20=19 ; Tuesday October 20th, 2015 3:08:38 AM
Walking along side Roland as the group heads to the boys house, Pesmer answers Roland's question with a soft, friendly tone. "I have been studying magic ever since..Well, ever since I can remember, to be honest. Mother was extremely gifted in the art of magic and father could get you to buy anything from his shop and then some. My life has been an adventure since day one and, meeting you all, I assume it will only grow more interesting.. And more perilous, heh. And what of you, my friend? How long have you been studying your craft for?"
Meeting the bitten boy's family in the small home, Pesmer watches with curious eyes as the boy speaks and shows off his 'battle wound'. Seeing the look in the mothers eyes (Sense Motive 19), Pesmer knows to keep his weapon at bay away from the childs hands lest he earns the wrath of a frying pan wielding mother.
As Micah applies his poultice to the boys infectious wound, Pesmer leans down as his hands raise up, hoping to gain the boys attention to help distract him from the pain. Casting his magicks (Prestidigitation), Pesmer creates a small, crude looking wooden rat toy the size of his palm as he shows it to the boy. "A brave soul indeed you are, little knight. Did the fierce beasty run and flee from your might swings?"
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+5=9 ; d20+5=18 ; d20+6=21 ; Tuesday October 20th, 2015 4:49:27 AM
(Sense Motive: 9) Agrippa nods at the name; Baker Alley (Knowledge Local: 18). Roland asks the questions that were on her mind. Looking at the wound, Agrippa thinks it wise to not ask the boy to show us. She makes a mental note next time she sees the Turtlemaster if she could pay the brave boy a visit.
Agrippa thanks the boy's mother for her hospitality. "Sorry if the group gave ye' a shock or two. Looking around at the massive party, she wonders how they all fit in here. "Me name's Agrippa, an' we're a new up'n comin' venturin' group; The Bad Detectives, focusin' on makin' this city shine from the bottom up." She'll attempt to get back into her good graces, if such a thing had fallen (Diplomancy: 21).
Official Adventurers (DM Cayzle) Tuesday October 20th, 2015 1:36:22 PM
Stohp catches up and rejoins the group, in time to share biscuits with Norr.
Koh encourages the boy, Ahnold.
Micah does his non-magical best to ensure the wound will heal cleanly, with no disease.
Roland asks Ahnold where the rats came from, and the boy has a quick answer. "From the sewers! I saw one crawling back down there."
Pesmer intuits that the parents of the wounded boy are frightened but determined to be courteous.
Agrippa focuses on putting the boy's mom at ease and does so. Her friendliness is infectious and strong.
Agrippa also knows (good Know Local check) about the sewers of which the boy speaks. The opening, long and thin to admit water and sewage, is very narrow. A halfling would have a chance to fit in there, with some luck. Rats could pass through, but not the rat men, at least not in the forms you fought.
"Are there any other questions you might have?" the mom asks.
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 Tuesday October 20th, 2015 10:03:38 PM
Micah smiles as he finishes up with Ahnold. He gives his mom a reassuring glance and shakes his head slightly in silent reply to her question as he gathers up his supplies to go.
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 d20+7=16 ; Tuesday October 20th, 2015 10:19:04 PM
During the walk to the home, Roland replies to Pesmer's inquiry " ah I've been working with Olenjack for as long as I can remember, he's like a father to me. Every blade I've ever honed is thanks to him."
Back at the house, Roland asks a bit more to the mother. " Did you happen to see anything yourself? "
To Agrippa, Roland asks " you seem to know a lot about the sewers, do you know if there are any large atrium areas where these rats could be holed up down there? "
( diplomacy to the mother )
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 d20=7 ; Wednesday October 21st, 2015 12:01:07 AM
Norr prepares to leave quietly, placing dishes and such where they belong. He does, however, keep an ear open for anything that maybe left unsaid by Ahnold and his family. (Sense Motive 7)
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+5=7 ; Wednesday October 21st, 2015 4:28:49 AM "Oh let me think..." Agrippa ponders for a moment (Knowledge Local: 7). "My sewer memory comes from playin' in the Trash level for a while growin' up. We didn' scope out the sewers for fun or nothinn, though." She shrugs at Pesmer as they walk back to the bar.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 8/8 AC:12/12/10 Wednesday October 21st, 2015 6:08:54 AM
Pesmer says goodbye to the two boys and the parents as everyone packs up and gets ready to go. He has no more questions for the mother or the children as he believes everyone else has asked what needs to be asked. Assuming Agrippa shares what she knows about the sewers, Pesmer contemplates what he knows about the rats and the ratmen as he tries to figure out just how they were traversing the sewers so easily.
On the way to the bar, he speaks aloud to the group of his thoughts. "If the sewer entrance is as small as you say, the ratmen either have another way up to The Fence or they have a way of changing their size. I think our options now are to check out the Giggling Ghost and search through the kitchen to see where they came from or we can go to this sewer entrance now."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 9/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 Wednesday October 21st, 2015 2:53:10 PM
Stohp arrived just in time for everyone to leave. "GG" is her vote on the next destination.
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 Wednesday October 21st, 2015 4:09:20 PM
Koh is busy thinking to herself. "Checking out Giggling Ghost and surrounding area may turn up entrance. Or perhaps old building? Could be using abandoned area with easier tunnel access."
Official Adventurers (DM Cayzle) Wednesday October 21st, 2015 11:14:18 PM
The group decides to check out the kitchen at the Giggling Ghost.
Once there, you find that Happy has bolted the kitchen door and set up a temporary kitchen over in a corner. Brussles seems very unhappy about that. He unbolts the kitchen door and lets you go in. "Be careful, young heroes," he says.
Through the kitchen doors is the main kitchen, a large pantry, and a wine cellar. The minotaurs are at home here -- everything is sized for a large-size cook! Please post actions and make skill checks.
==========
OOC: Friends, we are at the halfway mark in the module, so please accept 1,000 xp each for your adventures so far.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 9/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 d20+5=6 ; Wednesday October 21st, 2015 11:32:25 PM
Stohp decides to search the room for secret passages or leavers, focusing on furniture, floors, walls, cabinets and the like (craft: carpentry 6). She reasons that, with her experience making such objects, she should be able to spot anything out of the ordinary.
(On second thought, can I take 10 or 20 at this?)
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 Thursday October 22nd, 2015 1:40:58 AM
At the Giggling Ghost, Roland will look about the kitchens to see where the rats could have entered (Take 20 for perception) He will also be looking about the surrounding buildings of the GG to see if any of them are abandoned or could have been used as a base of operations for these ratmen, like Koh suggested.
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 d20+7=23 ; d20+6=17 ; Thursday October 22nd, 2015 9:35:49 AM
Koh checks around, scratching her head a little. Helping with the kitchen search specifically, and even using her work experience as a cook to see if anything is off.
(Perception 23, Profession: Cook 17)
"It occurs that ratmen may have person topside. To help direct."
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Thursday October 22nd, 2015 4:40:27 PM
Taking in the sights of everything large and sturdy, she will certainly miss working here. As her party begins the search, Agrippa thinks to herself for a moment, and then asks Happy, "I never had to go before, bu' is there an outhouse in here, or a privy?"
She also wanders up to Brussels and asks... it..? "I apologize for askin' this, bu', can you revisit that day the rats came an' tell us from wha' direction?"
If neither of those two questions yield any relevant response, she will roll up her sleeves and help with the search (Taking 20 on Perception). She'll focus on possible access points, like chimneys, sinks, etc...
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 Thursday October 22nd, 2015 5:24:12 PM
Micah keeps a watchful eye while others search. His hand rests lightly on the handle of his warhammer.
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 d20+1=14 ; Thursday October 22nd, 2015 5:28:18 PM
Norr gestures toward their stash of silver weapons before asking, "Shouldn't we split these things up? More useful close at hand than stuck in someone's bag."
As for the search, he does his best to look for any secret passages. He also offers to help with anything heavy that may need to be moved. (Perception 14)
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 9/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 Friday October 23rd, 2015 12:52:58 AM
Stohp gets momentarily distracted from her search by a set of particularly well made cabinets. Hrm, what kind of wood is this? Nothing she recognizes, and the hinges are expertly made to blend in, giving the cabinets a crisp, efficient look. After playing with the door for a minute, admiring how smoothly it opens and closes, she goes back to her search.
Official Adventurers (DM Cayzle) Friday October 23rd, 2015 1:15:05 AM
Post to come early Friday AM.
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Friday October 23rd, 2015 3:32:27 AM "Oh righ'. Anyone mind if I snag a dagg'?" Agrippa says, eyeing the polished weapons wearily. Taking a cue from Micah, she will have her own dagger close underneath her hand.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 8/8 AC:12/12/10 d20+8=16 ; Friday October 23rd, 2015 5:09:47 AM
(Sorry for the delayed reply. I meant to reply this morning but life got in the way. ^.^ Apologies.)
Hearing Norr speak of the weapons, he politely shakes his head and smiles. "I shall not be taking one but thank you. My skill with weapons is.. rather lacking. Ol' Shiva here has always done right by me."" The wizard fondly smiles at his quarterstaff.
Turning his attention to the GG as everyone searches, Pesmer gently places his hand upon Micah's shoulder as the cleric silently watches. "I trust you will have my back in case I light something on fire.. Yes?" He jests a bit before searching about with everyone else. Instead of using his eyes to see, the Mage opens his minds eye as he magically peers about the kitchen area, scanning for any magical energies that may help them in their search. (Casts detect magic and concentrates as he looks about the entire kitchen and surrounding building. Spellcraft of a 16.)
Official Adventurers (DM Cayzle) Friday October 23rd, 2015 10:17:17 AM
Agrippa knows that the GG is equipped with the latest in magical rest room facilities. These are common on the upper levels, but still a bit of a novelty here on the Fence.
BTW, Brussels is happy to tell her the whole story.
The group searches diligently [OOC: Taking 20 is fine, since you have the time to do a thorough job and there is no risk with failure.] Before Roland can find the time to go outside, the group learns stuff from Brussels and discovers the following clues!
- The Rats came through the wine cellar door, which was open and not shut.
- The Rats ran around the kitchen chasing staff and knocking over things until the staff ran out and then they followed.
- You see that the rodents have spoiled some foodstuffs that need to be discarded. Brussels would've done that except no one has been in the kitchen since the attack.
- You find rat droppings behind a stove that are older and therefore show that some of the smaller rats from the swarm had been in here before.
- You determine that the oldest of these droppings are about 2 weeks old. So this is a relatively new problem and not a sign that the GG has not been cleaning or neglecting things.
Next investigative actions?
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 Friday October 23rd, 2015 10:27:25 AM
Koh is thinking to herself. This...this is a perturbing thought, but she's piecing things together. "Scouts...small rats can be scouts. Scoping place out. Then ratmen funneled groups to common room." All signs of planning point to this for her. She has the worst thoughts right now.
"Who suggested the impromptu meeting? On such short notice?"
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 Friday October 23rd, 2015 1:58:43 PM
Norr takes the longsword, storing it. "A good question, Koh. I don't remember hearing who called for the meeting."
He then heads to take a peek in the wine cellar, just to be sure there isn't something they're missing in there. (Taking 20 on perception, so 21)
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 9/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 d20+2=17 ; Friday October 23rd, 2015 6:25:00 PM "Something to ask when we're done here. I remember Brassy being unusually knowledgeable about the rats." She joins Norr in investigating the cellar. If there are any wine barrels, she knocks on them to make sure they're empty - she's heard stories of hidden passages disguised that way.
(Ignore the roll, I'll take 20, which gives me 22 perception or 25 carpentry.)
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 Friday October 23rd, 2015 7:04:12 PM
Taking 20 on a perception check to examine the wine cellar, Roland looks for any holes or entrances that could have been used by the rats
Official Adventurers (DM Cayzle) Friday October 23rd, 2015 9:29:49 PM
Koh has some suspicions, but the party heads on down to the wine cellar to see what can be seen. Taking the time to do a thorough job, you discover:
When they go down into the basement, the party may look around as well and discover these things. This will come in stages:
Looking in the wine storage section [the front area] discovers this:
- Rat tracks behind the wine bottle shelves and some droppings.
- The larger tracks come from the back section where the kegs are.
Looking in the back section, You discover these things:
- Scattered rock and dirt is on the floor here.
- The floor is sticky in one section where something has spilled.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 8/8 AC:12/12/10 Friday October 23rd, 2015 9:50:19 PM
Pesmer continues to search with the rest of his group, wandering down into the wine cellar with everyone else. He stays quiet about his thoughts, at least for now, as he focuses on looking about the cellar.
Following the larger tracks that move towards the back section where the kegs are at, Pesmer takes a 20 on perception (22 on perception) to see if the scattered rocks and dirt upon the floor lead to a hole or burrowing from where the rats could have come from.
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 Friday October 23rd, 2015 10:25:57 PM
Micah does not take Pesmer's jest lightly. He thanks Domi that he regularly asks for the blessing of being able to create water.
Upon seeing the rubble he turns to Pesmer. "Do you have the ability to create magical light? If not, I will beseech Domi to grant me that power. I think we may be heading to dark places." He then moves to the out of everyone's way and quietly meditates while they are thoroughly searching the area.
[OOC: takes 15 minutes to add Light to his open orison slot]
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+5=21 ; Monday October 26th, 2015 12:03:48 AM
Agrippa will keep her eyes on the four corners of the room (Perception 21), and will draw both daggers, her regular and silver. She will be looking for motion more than finding an opening, since others are taking their time (and she doesn't like getting her hands dirty).
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 9/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 d20+2=19 ; Monday October 26th, 2015 8:36:39 AM
After she finishes checking on the wine barrels (taking 20) Stohp tries to figure out what the spill is (perception? rolled 19), resisting the urge to taste test it; who knows how long it's been there even if it was something edible.
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 Monday October 26th, 2015 1:36:23 PM
Roland investigates the dirt and rubble with the rest of the party (taking 20) to see where the source could have been from. "What do you all think? Is this just natural dinginess or is it from the ratmen??"
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 Monday October 26th, 2015 4:43:20 PM
Norr crosses his arms and leans against a wall. He reasons that the others are able to find anything he could, so he stays out of the way for now.
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Monday October 26th, 2015 5:08:55 PM
Pondering to herself, she thinks out loud, "Maybe the Ratmen have the decency to use an outhouse? 'Cuz I'm thinkin' their leavin's would be proportionate..."
Pesmer, Agrippa, Stohp, and Roland peek and poke around the leaky barrels. In fact, there are two kegs that has been gnawed through and are open in the back. Once the barrles are pulled from the wall, you find a 2’ diameter hole behind them going through the wall.
Also, these kegs have some dire rats in them, which leap out to attack the intruders.
No map this time. The three dire rats are in melee range of Pesmer, Agrippa, Stohp, and Roland. There's hardly any room for anyone else.
Rat 1 attacks Pesmer, hitting AC10. Pesmer is flat-footed at the start of the fight, so that's a hit, right? For 1 hp damage.
Rat 2 bites at Stohp, hitting AC21 with a nat 20. Crit confirm roll is a 3, so no. Stohp takes 4 damage.
Rat 3 bites at Roland, hitting AC3, a miss.
[OOC: These particular rats seem a bit drunk, and have 1d8 temp hit points. OTOH, the alcohol has sterilized their mouths, so no chance of disease! Rats are AC14.]
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 d20+2=8 ; d8+3=8 ; Monday October 26th, 2015 5:33:13 PM
Koh, seeing rats, immediately gets the overwhelming urge to get them away from everyone. Or just stomp them. Due to the crowding, though, she can't get a good reach in yet. (Attack roll is 8)
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+3=6 ; d20+7=23 ; Monday October 26th, 2015 7:57:16 PM "I'll stay away from the rum for awhile-!" Agrippa shouts as she attempts to stab a rat with her regular dagger (non-silver). However, the enclosed space gives her little space to swing, and her attack whiffs.
If she can, she will take a 5-foot step to allow Koh (or someone else) a chance to attack a rat in her stead in the tight spaces. If a 5-foot step can't accomplish that, then she will use her move action to get out of the way, using acrobatics to not provoke an attack of opportunity (Acrobatics 23).
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 Monday October 26th, 2015 8:38:08 PM
On the periphery of his consciousness Micah notes the clamor of battle. Trusting that Domi has not called him to be ready now for this battle, he continues with his meditations with the expectation that perhaps after the battle, the gifts granted by Domi may be required.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 5/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 d20+4=19 ; Monday October 26th, 2015 9:05:21 PM
(Did I remember to make Stohp change back into her armor after they returned from the upper level? I remember meaning to but not if I actually did; she had multiple opportunities.)
Stohp reals back in pain from the vicious bite, trying to get away from the creatures (5-foot step back). If she manages to get out of threatened range, she attempts to seize one of the rats in an oversize hand (19 Grapple check).
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 Monday October 26th, 2015 10:56:39 PM
Norr steels himself for the upcoming rat onslaught, equipping his battle gear and waiting for an opening. (2 move actions to equip ax and shield.)
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 7/8 AC:12/12/10 d20+2=21 ; d6+2=7 ; Tuesday October 27th, 2015 1:09:31 AM
Being bitten by the large mangy dire rat, Pesmer lets out a heated curse in Elven as he attempts to slam his staff down against the intoxicated vermin. (Hitting the AC of the dire rat with a 21).
Dealing a decent blow against the furry fiends head (7 points of bludgeoning damage), Pesmer then tries to take a 5 foot step back away from the creature towards his party members if there is indeed enough room to do so.
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 d20+4=18 ; d10+4=7 ; Tuesday October 27th, 2015 8:46:22 PM
Roland will take out his hammer ( provoking an attack of opportunity) to swing at the nearest rat. (attacking the same rat Pesmer just hit if it is still up, if not attacking a new rat) He swings down with all of his might on the skull of the dire rat, trying to taking out in this swing.
(Attack roll of 18, damage roll of 7)
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 Tuesday October 27th, 2015 8:59:56 PM
Koh is just preparing to step in and finish things - looks like everyone else has this handled though.
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 Tuesday October 27th, 2015 10:43:23 PM
Although his senses are focused on his meditations, Micah is nonetheless aware of what is occurring in cellar. His spirit winces as his allies are bitten and surges when they respond with violent effectiveness.
"Dark places indeed" echoes in his mind as he continues to call upon his deity for guidance and power.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 7/8 AC:12/12/10 Tuesday October 27th, 2015 11:34:15 PM "I....Rather like nature but I am starting to gain a rather malicious view of vermin. Though it is somewhat humorous to be fighting these beasts in their drunken state. Heh... Maybe we should try and get every opponent we face drunk beforehand." Pesmer jests as they combat the intoxicated dire rats.
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Wednesday October 28th, 2015 12:00:57 AM "This beer didn' deserve tha', though." Agrippa replies to Pesmer. "This beer had dreams. It wanted to be drank by the bigges' (or smalles'), baddest story-teller back in the bar, I'm sure. An' these rats threw their dreams away." *Sniff*
Cellar Rats! Round 2 (DM Cayzle) d8=1 ; d8=8 ; d8=8 ; d20+1=5 ; d4=3 ; d20+1=5 ; Wednesday October 28th, 2015 12:16:55 AM
Koh reaches into the melee (10 ft reach), but misses badly. [OOC: Your friends provide soft cover to the rats as you reach through their squares, but did not matter with this attack anyway.
Agrippa swings, misses, and tumbles back out of the way.
Micah keeps on concentrating on spell prep, confident his friends can handle this.
Armor-clad Stohp steps back, reaches for a dire rat, and wrestles it! You and it are both grappled. Do you have two hands free, Stohp?
Norr gets his ax and shield ready.
Koh waits and watches.
=====
RATS ACT.
Rat 1, grappled by Stohp, tries to bite the hand that holds it. It misses.
Rat 2 is defeated.
Rat 3 snaps at (even odd Roland Pesmer) Pesmer, hitting AC5, a miss.
=====
RAT STATUS AC14, CMD12
Rat 1 (0 dam of 6 hp) - grappled by Stohp Rat 2 (14 dam of 13 hp) - defeated by Pesmer and Roland Rat 3 (0 dam of 13 hp) - fighting Pesmer
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Wednesday October 28th, 2015 3:01:19 AM "Here Stohp, turn tha' rat towards us so we can skewer it~" Agrippa requests. (Holding actions depending on party members)
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 7/8 AC:12/12/10 d20+2=4 ; Wednesday October 28th, 2015 7:42:58 AM
Chuckling at Agripp's words, Pesmer steps out of the way of the rats snapping jaws as he gives it a grinning glare. "No! Bad drunken rat!" Pesmer wasn't sure if he could 5 foot step his way behind the rat that was attacking him or not, but he would try so that Roland or anyone else could help flank the beast.
He would only take that 5 foot step before trying to smash the furry beast with his Quarterstaff, the rats brothers blood already coating the end of his staff. (Rolled a 2+2 for a 4 against the rat) Sadly missing the rat as the end of his staff smacks against the cool damp floor, Pesmer huffs out in frustration for his obvious miss. "You are a bit quicker on your furry feet then your brother was!" He shouts out to the rat in elven.. As if the rat could somehow understand him.
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 d20+2=9 ; d8+3=7 ; Wednesday October 28th, 2015 8:51:45 AM
Koh again tries a kick at the ungrappled rat, hitting only wood. But hard. She lets out an uncharacteristically girlish squeal of distress. Oh come on just die already hggh Q_Q
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 5/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 d20+9=19 ; d8-1=4 ; d20-1=18 ; Wednesday October 28th, 2015 7:25:01 PM
(19 to maintain grapple, 4 damage, and an attack roll vs their AC with no dex bonus.)
Stohp squeezes the rat tightly in one fist, grabbing her sap with the other to deliver a solid whack to it's head. "No stabbing please, my knuckles are in the way!" she tells Agrippa
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 d20+3=11 ; d20+1=2 ; Wednesday October 28th, 2015 9:27:04 PM
Norr attacks the rat that both Koh and Pesmer recently missed. His blows are also off the mark. (to hit rolls 11 and 2)
"A fast one, eh?" he questions as he shifts his stance lower, to make it easier to hit the little beast.
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 Wednesday October 28th, 2015 9:31:10 PM
Sometimes it takes more courage to let others carry the load. This aphorism crossed Micah's mind as he continued to pray in preparation for what he felt surely lay ahead.
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 d20+4=20 ; d10+3=10 ; Wednesday October 28th, 2015 10:47:03 PM
Roland swings heavily down on the rat that is not grappled, bringing the head of his hammer right down on the back of the beast (10 dmg)
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+7=21 ; d20+1=3 ; Thursday October 29th, 2015 1:18:23 AM
Agrippa slowly turns her head to John, who continues to meditate while shouts and rat blood streaks through the air in slow motion. "A tempered mind indeed."
At Stohp's comment, she groans but understands; thinking, I wouldn' wan'ta squeeze a bleedin' rat either. She'll move into position (If that requires an acrobatics check, Acrobatics = 21) and using the blunt hilt, attempt to dagger-whip the rat. (-4 nonlethal, +2 flanking. Attack roll = 3)
"I'm only good at flippin' n' stabbin', apparently~" she curses as the hilt of her blade gently pets behind the rat's ear.
Cellar Rats! Round 3 (DM Cayzle) d20+1=12 ; d20+1=7 ; Thursday October 29th, 2015 2:57:43 AM
Pesmer swings, misses, and steps back.
Koh kicks and misses the same one.
Norr swipes at that one too, to no avail.
Roland signals his dissatisfaction with this ballet, whomping the rat with his hammer!
Agrippa tries to follow up gently, and she gently misses.
Stohp squeezes the rat he is holding.
Micah maybe regrets his lack of participation in this fight, but consoles himself with lofty thoughts.
=====
RATS ACT.
Rat 1, grappled by Stohp, tries to bite the hand that holds it. It misses. Again.
Rat 2 is defeated.
Rat 3 bites back at Roland, and ... missing.
=====
RAT STATUS AC14, CMD12
Rat 1 (4 dam of 6 hp) - grappled by Stohp Rat 2 (14 dam of 13 hp) - defeated by Pesmer and Roland Rat 3 (10 dam of 13 hp) - fighting Roland
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 5/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 d20+9=19 ; d20-1=4 ; d8-1=0 ; Thursday October 29th, 2015 8:16:17 AM
(19 to maintain grapple, 4 to hit I may or may not need, 0 for damage)
Stohp thwacks the rat again, but it twists it's head to the side at the last moment and she hits herself on the knuckle. Cursing, she almost drops the stupid critter but manages to hold her grip.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 7/8 AC:12/12/10 d20+4=12 ; Thursday October 29th, 2015 8:33:42 AM
Pesmer does his best to 5 foot step around the rat once more so that Roland and him are now flanking the furry beast. Even with the flanking distraction, Pesmer's swing is a miss as he attacks the beast with a hit of 12. "Even bloodied this vermin is dodging my attacks! Maybe I should stick to slinging spells...."
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+1=21 ; d6=4 ; d4+1=2 ; Thursday October 29th, 2015 7:44:51 PM
Agrippa attempts to join the game of whack-a-rat, with much success (Not a critical confirmation since I'm not using a dagger the way I'm supposed to) (Damage = 6). She turns; "That'll do, Stohp..."
She'll use her move action to leave the room, allowing others more space to move around.
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 d20+3=13 ; d10+6=15 ; Thursday October 29th, 2015 8:57:28 PM
( Forgot to take in the flanking bonus from Pesmer in my attack roll, just getting over the AC by 1 with that bonus )
Roland lets out a loud battle roar as he brings the hammer down on the rat with all his might (power attack) The rat squishes under the heavy chunk of steel blasting through it (15 dmg)
The Tunnel in the Cellar (DM Cayzle) Thursday October 29th, 2015 10:13:58 PM
Agrippa bonks the one rat, and Roland smashes the other into goo. All three are defeated.
You see a two foot diameter tunnel behind the barrels in which the rats were lurking. A medium creature would need to use the squeezing rules to enter, and they would have to be prone, using the crawling rules.
While you catch your breath, Micah finishes his spell prep.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 5/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 Thursday October 29th, 2015 10:22:03 PM
"Hrm... we might need a halfling. Or a Ferret." She peers at the hole doubtfully.
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 Thursday October 29th, 2015 10:59:17 PM
Catching her breath, Koh quickly backs out of the room as well. There's no way she's gonna squeeze through that hole. Ever.
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 Friday October 30th, 2015 7:18:07 AM
"Well looks like someone's going to have to investigate, looks like it's going to be me" Roland sighs as his companions start to leave the room. If we were commissioned to find out the source of the rat problem, there's no use in backing out when we finally find a good lead. Roland holsters his hammer and holds his dagger in his teeth for easy access in case more rats come through the tunnel, ready for anything. "See you all soon" Roland chuckles as he starts scuttling through the hole
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 7/8 AC:12/12/10 Friday October 30th, 2015 9:44:14 AM "No,my friend. You will not be going at it alone." Although Pesmer wasn't the type to roll around in the dirt for too long, he didn't wish to see his friend going through such an ordeal all alone. Tying his Quarterstaff to his back, Pesmer crawls down prone into the hole shortly after Roland enters the hole.
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 Friday October 30th, 2015 10:06:51 AM "Have fun in there. Not fitting through that anytime soon." Norr proceeds to wait near the entrance to the cellar for further word.
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Friday October 30th, 2015 12:43:45 PM
Agrippa watches the paladin scratch and crawl his way through the hole. I know it's dark in there, she thinks to herself. They know I can see in the dark, right?
"Uhh... maybe I should go in firs', cuz it'll be hard holdin' a torch in somethin' like tha'? she states. Remembering that Micah finished her prayers, perhaps she can solve that problem for our leader.
Looking at Koh, Norr and Stohp, she wonders out loud, "I wonder if the entrance tha' the boy mentioned is any larger. Since Micah can help guide this party, shoul' we try the other?"
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 Friday October 30th, 2015 3:28:32 PM
Rubbing her shoulder, Koh shudders. Egh... "...yes. May as well be useful." She doesn't fancy crawling through sewers looking for trouble in the slightest.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 5/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 Friday October 30th, 2015 9:19:47 PM
Stohp looks incredulously at the people all volunteering to go crawl into the tiny space. "You're all mad. You won't be able to see in there, or turn around to get back out and we don't know how long it is or where it leads. Unless the ratmen were willing to crawl through that for who knows how long and far there's probably a larger entrance if we keep looking.
Besides, if you're determined to go into that thing then stop filing in all together or you'll be stuck on each other. One person should go, with a light, to scout it a ways and we'll pull them out with a rope or something."
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 7/8 AC:12/12/10 Saturday October 31st, 2015 5:07:16 AM "Keen idea, Stohp. I have some rope and a protection spell I can give to whoever wishes to venture forth into this tunnel first." Pesmer smiles as he looks between Roland and Agrippa. [/b]"Whichever one of you is better in dark, small places works for me, though the protection spell will only last around a minute or so."[/b] Pesmer warns them, not knowing how far this tunnel could go. "Lets hope the tunnel is less then fifty feet or so as that's all the rope I have."
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Saturday October 31st, 2015 5:01:36 PM
Agrippa will slowly raise her hand. "I'll do it."
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 Sunday November 1st, 2015 6:00:11 PM
Micah comes out of his reverie as the others are anxiously preparing to plunge ahead. He smiles as Stohp wisely counsels preparation before action.
He is warmest smile, however, is reserved for Agrippa's boldness in speaking up. Recognizing her courage, not in facing the potential perils of the tunnel, but in putting herself forward before her comrades, he quickly supports her offer to go first.
"Given your dark vision that makes the most sense," he says to her. "Before we commit to going in we should take a look to see how far it goes and whether it turns or opens up and anything else of note."
To Roland, "May I?" as he reaches out for the unsheathed dagger. [OOC: assuming acquiescence] He takes the dagger and after a brief prayer it glows with light about as strong as a torch. "Assuming Agrippa gives us the clear, this will enable you to see to follow."
The Tunnel in the Cellar (DM Cayzle) Monday November 2nd, 2015 11:52:12 AM
Both Koh and Stohp balk at the tunnel, which makes sense, seeing as there is no way they could fit in it.
Norr takes a look and comes to the same conclusion.
Roland steps up and crawls into the narrow passage.
Pesmer follows promptly.
In their ardent heroism, what are Roland and Pesmer using for light? Whatever they are using, it will announce their coming, won't it? Agrippa thinks maybe she should have gone first, since she can see in the dark. Oh well, there they go!
Stohp tries to urge some sense on Roland and Pesmer. They'll be obviously very vulnerable crawling on their bellies, should some enemy crawl forth to bite!
Pesmer realizes the wisdom of what his new friends are saying, and backs out, offering a protection spell. He could not see anything anyway, with Roland in the way.
Agrippa reluctantly volunteers to be the tunnel explorer.
Micah softly calls down to Roland, offering him a light spell.
At this point, Roland can see where the tunnel is going. It seems to lead next door, into the basement of the next building over. That's a 10’ crawl to the basement. However, even at just ten feet, medium-size characters will have difficulty in the 2’ passage. Other options?
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+1=18 ; d20+5=13 ; Monday November 2nd, 2015 2:50:39 PM "It leads nex' door?" Agrippa repeats Rolands findings. "Alrigh'. If we split the party an' have the Taurs go nex' door to head down, there is a chance the rat-men would wanna use this tunnel to escape, an' we migh' bump heads, to their advantage. I think we shoul' plug this hole up real good 'n head o'er, instead o' riskin' intrusion. Sound good ta everyone?"
An open question. Perhaps... is Agrippa attempting to wear the party leader's hat?
(OOC: Agrippa doesn't know if the word Taurs is a racial epithet, but here's a Knowledge; Local {13} roll to find out. She wouldn't say that if it is. What would identify the minotaurs better? Minotaurs? Horns? Dwarf-opposites?)
An open question. Perhaps... is Agrippa attempting to wear the party leader's hat?
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 Monday November 2nd, 2015 9:50:33 PM "That seems reasonable, assuming we can get in next door," agrees Micah.
"Koh, do you know whose place that is and if they would let us into their basement?"
"One concern I have though is where does the trail go from there, but I guess we will not know until we follow it."
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 Monday November 2nd, 2015 10:28:59 PM "Should we block this path before heading over there?" Norr queries, as he looks around the general area for something heavy and big enough to block intruders for a while.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 7/8 AC:12/12/10 Monday November 2nd, 2015 11:49:57 PM
Pesmer listens in on what the three of them say as he leans against a nearby wall, quietly watching the lot. He doesn't speak up but instead waits till anyone begins to move, believing that adding one more voice to the list of questions or comments would just create further chaos. He had no interest in leadership, though he did like hats, so he left the decision making up to those who wished to voice opinion.
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 d20+3=15 ; Tuesday November 3rd, 2015 12:03:21 AM
Roland, crawling backwards into the cellar of the Giggling Ghost after seeing where the tunnel leads, reports his findings and puts in his two cents "Well if we can get into the next building we can investigate further. I am with you Norr, blocking this entrance seems to be the best option to prevent the rat men from using this again" (With a 15 Strength check, Roland will start to push some heavy objects in front of the hole, preventing passage through it"
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 5/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 d20+7=8 ; d20+5=23 ; Tuesday November 3rd, 2015 8:01:17 AM
Stohp tries to remember what building sits next to the GG in the direction the tunnel leads and who owns it; the idea being discussed is moot if the neighbor doesn't let them come in (local 8). Still, they should seal up this hole, so she uses her carpentry skill (23) to reinforce the blockage and make sure it covers the entire hole.
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 d6=3 ; Tuesday November 3rd, 2015 8:18:45 PM
After some silent reflection, and while waiting for a consensus to form, Micah calmly calls upon the power entrusted to him to heal the bites and scratches received by his colleagues.
(Channel energy for 3 points of healing)
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 Tuesday November 3rd, 2015 10:11:06 PM
Koh takes a long moment, trying to think it over. Hmm. "Do not really get out much..." Taurs is fine with her - usually people use it as a general term anyway, since any of the Taurish races have problems getting into places or through places.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 5/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 Tuesday November 3rd, 2015 10:32:46 PM
Stohp pauses in her barricade creating to admire the quality of wood in the furniture they're using. Hrm, I wonder how tasty it would be if I was a rat?
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Tuesday November 3rd, 2015 10:56:53 PM "S' hard to believe they were lookin' fer beer." Agrippa says, viewing the broken barrels. "I wonder why they we're after the merchants..."
The Tunnel in the Cellar (DM Cayzle) Wednesday November 4th, 2015 12:01:50 AM
Agrippa suggests plugging the tunnel and heading next door.
Micah has questions but no answers.
Norr thinks some heavy wine racks would make a good temporary stopgap.
Roland lends his muscles to Norr's efforts. Pretty soon, the tunnel is quite obstructed.
Pesmer watches and waits.
Nobody really seems to recall who the neighbor is over there ...
... so the group heads over to check. Right on Dagger Point Road, then right down an alley to a nondescript building. You knock on the door. And wait.
Eventually, a human comes to the door. He has on a mage's robe. No wait, is that a bathrobe?
Perception DC12: Highlight to display spoiler: {He reeks of strong drink.}
"Yes, what is it, what do you want?" he croaks.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 7/8 AC:12/12/10 d20+2=21 ; d20+5=22 ; Wednesday November 4th, 2015 8:43:45 AM
Peering over the human in robes (Perception 21) Pesmer fights the urge to cover his nose as the strong stench of drink hits his senses. He says nothing for a moment as his keen eyes peer over the male in search of any signs of fighting or for any signs that he could be in league with the ratfolk.
"Sorry for the intrusion, good sir. We come from the Giggling Ghost. It seems rats have tore a hole through the basement of the Giggling Ghost into your basement. They seem to be devouring up the liquor. We would be happy to stomp out these rats in your basement so that your alcohol is left safe and sound, if indeed you would let us inspect your basement for these nasty vermin." (Diplomacy check 22 towards the bathrobed human.)
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 d20+1=9 ; Wednesday November 4th, 2015 8:32:37 PM
Norr allows Pesmer and the others to handle the talking as he examines the robed man. (Perception 9)
If possible, he will also look over him into the entry room to see if anything's suspicious in there.
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 d20+3=12 ; d20+7=25 ; d20+7=19 ; Wednesday November 4th, 2015 10:56:31 PM
Micah grins at Pesmer's enthusiastic greeting and clever verbal approach. With a casual stance and benign expressions he attempts to reinforce Pesmer's attempt to influence the besotted neighbor.
[OOC: Perception 12; Diplomacy to Aid Another 25 beats DC10; third roll is an error]
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 Wednesday November 4th, 2015 11:34:54 PM
Grimacing, Koh just stands behind the group. Well way to tell the man he's a drunkard. That's just in poor taste. "We are adventurers. Kill rats dead. Rah." Might as well have some fun with this.
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+5=14 ; Thursday November 5th, 2015 1:21:23 AM
Agrippa will keep watch whilst the negotiations ensue. Perhaps we are being watched..? (Perception:14)
Roland (Andrew) HP: 15 AC: 18/11/17 CMD: 15 d20+1=17 ; d20+7=12 ; Thursday November 5th, 2015 2:47:15 AM
Roland will be with the group as they go over to the home adjacent to the giggling ghost. Smelling the alcohol on the man's breath, Roland decides to let Pesmer handle the negotiations. (Sorry I posted yesterday but it looks like it didn't go through :( ignore the second d20 roll, that was from when I was going to make the diplomacy check when it didn't post)
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 7/8 AC:12/12/10 Thursday November 5th, 2015 8:02:43 AM
Pesmer awaits for the man to reply as he continues to smile all polite like. He had to wonder what his group of friends and him looked like to the outside world. Just a ragtag team of adventurers.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 5/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 d20+2=20 ; Thursday November 5th, 2015 8:08:17 AM
Stohp notices the smell of alcohol on his breath and eyes him suspiciously. Who's to say the tunnel isn't his, made so he could steal beer from the Giggling Ghost?
The Tunnel in the Cellar (DM Cayzle) Thursday November 5th, 2015 5:54:35 PM
The more charismatic of the party, led by Pesmer, report that they are seeking to rid the area of dire rats, and they came over from the Giggling Ghost.
The man draws himself up. "I am Rielbel Thalras, Purveyor of Potions!" he declares. "And there is no wine cellar in my basement, just my working laboratory!"
"You wish to see my workshop? Well, the price is not cheap. I would require some traffic in kind. Perhaps a voucher or two for service at the Giggling Ghost?"
He's asking for an IOU or other note authorizing him to drink as much and as long as he likes on a given night.
Inside, it is dusty and dim. Could use some fresh air!
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 5/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 d20+6=14 ; Thursday November 5th, 2015 10:52:08 PM
Stohp frowns for a moment before turning on her poker face. She doesn't appreciate getting shaken down by this drunkard for a chance to feed his habit. Looking at him seriously she says "I'm sure we can arrange that, but first we need to check your lab. The creatures in question assaulted several people in the Ghost, unless we smoke them out they may do you harm." She's lying through her teeth of course; they have no authority to give such vouchers, and she doubts whoever is behind this rat thing would bother with the drunken sod. (Bluff 14).
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 d20+7=21 ; Thursday November 5th, 2015 10:53:40 PM "Well met, good sir, I am Micah son of Mattus and these here are my colleagues joined together for the good of the neighborhood.
"I agree that talk is cheap, but the potential damage done by oversized rodents in your workshop is not. What we are requesting is for the good of your business as well as your neighbors. A quick look into your lower level is all we ask. In all likelihood we shall find another outlet leading us further along to find the source of mischief beleaguering all of us.
"What say you, may we take a quick look?"
[OOC: I think we are still on the same charisma check made earlier, but in case this requires a new one, the new diplomacy roll is 21.]
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 Friday November 6th, 2015 6:07:51 AM
Koh can't really add much to diplomacy here, but if they can find what they're looking for in this cellar...
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 d20=5 ; Friday November 6th, 2015 12:15:40 PM
Norr doesn't participate in the negotiations, but he does keep an eye on Rielbel, trying to see if he's hiding something important. (Sense Motive 5)
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+5=25 ; d20+5=17 ; Friday November 6th, 2015 1:32:04 PM
Agrippa is judging the reaction of Mr. Thalras during the exchange between him and Micah (Sense Motive: 25). Perhaps he might seem nervous, or fearful...
She will also keep a sharp eye to the walls and corners of his house, in particular looking for scratches or rat droppings (Perception: 17 or same roll as last time (14)).
Roland (Andrew Z.) d20+1=7 ; d20+7=24 ; Friday November 6th, 2015 1:40:24 PM
Roland attempt to assist Micah in convincing the man to let us look at his lab. ( giving Micah +2 to his diplomacy check ) " friend it is of dire importance that we look inside your lab. If there are rats inside it could mean a danger to you and your equipment. I'm sure if you let us look around the giggling ghost will reciprocate you in some way."
( ignore that first d20 roll, that was a flub )
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 8/8 AC:12/12/10 Friday November 6th, 2015 3:09:46 PM
Pesmer couldn't help but grin silently to himself as he watches his fellow adventures all trying to convince and talk to the 'purveyor of potions' at once. He really was curious to see how the party looked from the outside world. Keeping quiet now, Pesmer watches as words are exchanged, curious as to see how much convincing this drunkard needed to move aside.
The Tunnel in the Cellar (DM Cayzle) d20=20 ; Friday November 6th, 2015 5:01:12 PM
Stohp says that there might be a chance to get a voucher after checking out the basement. The bleary-eyed alchemist looks sceptical.
Agrippa gets the clear idea that the voucher is worth much more to him than the peek into the basement, but some other liquid compensation might serve in place of drink vouchers. She peeks past him and looks into a foyer or entryway of some kind.
Micah of the Golden Tongue appeals to his concern for local business (his own) and his neighbors. The words are compelling, but none of those factors matter much to Thalras.
Roland's assistance to Micah sems to sway him a smidge.
"Here," he says, "let me whet your thirst. You, little miss with the big eyes," he points to Agrippa. "You enter alone. I'll take you to the top of the stairs to look down. If you want to see more than that, you bring me a nice voucher for a pleasant evening at the Ghost, and then I'll let all your big friends in."
If Agrippa agrees, he opens the door enough for her to enter, then closes it. He takes her to the back of the foyer, where there is a door with a lock on it. He unlocks it, opens the door, and lets Agrippa take a look.
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 Friday November 6th, 2015 11:12:27 PM
Groaning, Koh turns and rubs her head. Well this is bollocks. Ah well. Day on the job.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 5/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 Friday November 6th, 2015 11:28:15 PM
Stohps paranoia immediately raises alarm flags at this suggestion. They don't know anything about this guy or their targets. He could be in league with them, heck if they're were-rats he may be one of them. Sending one of the party in alone with him is out of the question, but she doesn't want to make a huge fuss in front of him since it'd just raise his suspicions regardless of if she's right or wrong.
She pokes Agrippa in the back and tries to give a small shake of her head to indicate her opinion without anyone else noticing.
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 d20+7=17 ; Sunday November 8th, 2015 8:29:39 PM
[OOC: Note that Micah channeled energy back in the cellar (Tuesday's post). Anyone injured by the rats should be healed 3 points.]
Micah silently wishes they had not obstructed the connection from the Giggling Ghost. Though it was prudent to do so, if it were open it would give them a quick alternative to effect a rescue should Riebel plan some treachery for Agrippa.
No longer having that option available, he watches him for any signs of potential perfidy (Sense Motive 17).
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 d20+7=17 ; Sunday November 8th, 2015 9:13:05 PM
[OOC: Note that Micah channeled energy back in the cellar (Tuesday's post). Anyone injured by the rats should be healed 3 points.]
Micah silently wishes they had not obstructed the connection from the Giggling Ghost. Though it was prudent to do so, if it were open it would give them a quick alternative to effect a rescue should Riebel plan some treachery for Agrippa.
No longer having that option available, he watches him for any signs of potential perfidy (Sense Motive 17).
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 Sunday November 8th, 2015 11:09:54 PM
Norr nods, giving his tacit approval to whatever Agrippa decides to do. After all, she won't be too far away to call for help... Hopefully.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 8/8 AC:12/12/10 Monday November 9th, 2015 12:52:00 AM
Pesmer turns to Agrippa as she is asked to come alone into the house, him being rather nervous about this. "Agrippa.. Shall I cast a protection spell on you before you enter if you wish to enter?"
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+5=9 ; d20+5=23 ; Monday November 9th, 2015 2:59:56 AM
Agrippa's hair on the back of her head sands on end when she is pointed out (OOC: I'm not sure if I should re-roll Sense Motive or not to determine hostile intent, but if I do, I rolled a 9). Looking around, the party appears to be in a general consensus. Everyone appears to be lettin' me decide, she thinks. "Alrigh', I'll go. She nods to Pesmer, accepting whatever protective spell he deems appropriate.
She walks in once invited. However, when he closes the door behind her, she jumps from nerves. If he gives her a look, she'll reply, "Sorry, err... you should've seen how huge these rats were." She will ready an action to defend herself if another loud sound like that happens again.
As Thalras opens the door, she'll look again for any signs of rats, small or large, down the corridor, hand on her dagger hilt (Perception: 23).
The Tunnel in the Cellar (DM Cayzle) Monday November 9th, 2015 8:15:48 AM
With the paranoia of novice adventurers, Koh and Stohp grow alarmed, and remain alert. Norr too is alert, but with less negativity!
Some in the party, especially Micah, focus on this drunkard of an alchemist, but all you sense is boredom, self-loathing, and the desire for drink. He honestly does not seem to care what you do, but darned if he will give you something you value for free.
Pesmer buffs Agrippa as Roland keeps an eye out.
Inside, Agrippa stands by the door in the back of the foyer. Rielbel Thalras takes out a key, unlocks the door, and pulls it wide.
You are at the top of a stairway. At the bottom, there is a flicker of torchlight. You see some broken glass fragments on the floor. An old dank closed-up smell of decay and chemicals rises up the stairs and assaults your nose.
"Haven't been down there lately," says Rielbel. "Place prolly could use a sweep."
Agrippa, if you make a perception check vs DC15, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {you hear a scurrying sound down there.}
Rielbel closes the door and locks it again, then leads Agrippa back out.
"Now, you want in, you bring me a voucher for a nice stay at the Ghost!"
He slams the door shut.
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 d20+5=22 ; Monday November 9th, 2015 8:21:08 PM
(Perception: 22) Agrippa puts a hand on her hip. "Ruuude~", she grunts, testing a fang with her thumb. Ears still buzzing from the protective spell, she confirms with the party, "Le's go back to the bar, 'n talk abou' this."
Once out of earshot of the house, she'll tell everyone about what she saw and heard, [b]"Somethin' was scurryin' down there... Don' ask me wha' scurrying sounds like, I tell ya I jus' heard scurryin'.
Now, the circumstantial evidence seems condemnin' to me; a were-rat hole leads into a bar, an' the drunk, nigh-naked maker of pots is more concerned abou' keepin' us out then gettin' rid o' the infestation. But... I couldn't sense no malice on 'em. Whacha guys think?"
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 Monday November 9th, 2015 10:11:57 PM "His selfishness does not speak well of his character," say Micah, "but it is his right to deny us free access. If a voucher is his price, then I see no choice but to pay it. Does anyone know what that would be worth? Unless Happy is willing to donate it, I am inclined to paying it out of the reward money."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 5/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 Monday November 9th, 2015 11:13:51 PM "Never hurts to ask. Well sometimes it does but you know what I mean."
Roland (Andrew Z.) Tuesday November 10th, 2015 2:27:37 AM
" something seems off about this man, I'm glad you got out safe Agrippa. Let's talk to the Giggling Ghost and see if we can get that voucher, or at least a little more information about this alchemist "
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 8/8 AC:12/12/10 Tuesday November 10th, 2015 2:51:35 AM
Pesmer, having cast Shield upon Agrippa, goes through his spellbook as he awaits her return. When she comes back and the party returns to the Giggling Ghost to discuss, Pesmer jots down a few notes about the look and feel of the drunk before speaking. Agreed. I have a bit of coin on me if we cannot get the voucher for free. I assume Happy would be more inclinded to give one up to you, Agrippa, as you worked for him before.
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 Tuesday November 10th, 2015 12:58:34 PM
Norr joins the others as they return to the Giggling Ghost, relieved that Agrippa is unharmed. "We can ask Happy first and decide later."
The Tunnel in the Cellar (DM Cayzle) Tuesday November 10th, 2015 1:10:18 PM
Resigned to the situation, the party returns to the Giggling Ghost, where Happy has a tale or two to tell about Rielbel Thalras. The man was evidently a respected potion maker, but his daughter ran off to join the Hands of Love, and he's descended into drink at the thought of what she's got caught up in. It's been months since he has sold anything, and he's just living off his savings. Happy has had to throw him out a few times for getting drunk and insulting Caeroldra in pretty blasphemous terms.
Knowledge Local or Knowledge Religion 10: Highlight to display spoiler: {Caeroldra is a God of Testing, the one devoted to hedonism.}
Knowledge Local or Knowledge Religion 15: Highlight to display spoiler: {The Hands of Love are a Cult of Caeroldra, with a reputation for getting their hooks in you. They offer pure pleasure, but the price you pay for it later is high.}
Knowledge Local or Knowledge Religion 20: Highlight to display spoiler: {Copy and paste this URL into your web browser: http://www.woldiangames.com/Woldipedia/index.php/Hand_of_Love.}
The tavern keeper hears you out, and is willing to give him a pass, but you have to deliver a warning.
"Sure, here you go. But you tell him that if he makes a mess of himself or the bar, or if he gets messy and loud, then he's banned for life. I mean, I feel for the guy, but I run a classy place, you know?"
Voucher in hand, you return to the alchemist. Rielbel greets you at the door, plainly eager for good news. "Ha! Time to pay the piper!" He dangles the key to the basement in front of you.
Unsure what any of it means, Koh just tags along for now, hoping this guy wouldn't be...y'know. Rowdy on their trust. She kinda feels bad though, he seems a very sad man. Maybe he needs some words of encouragement - but from a better speaker than her
So that group of fanatics is involved? Stohp quickly explains to the others what the Hand of Love is (follow the link so I don't have to type all that out). "I didn't know they had an operation around here. Might they be involved somehow? Then again, ratfolk don't exactly seem the type to follow the Goddess of Passion.."
Dang, I thought for sure he was one of 'em, Agrippa thinks to herself, feeling only a little pity for the broken father. Still, he should let his daughter do what she wants without goin' drunk 'n blasphemous.
Armor equipped, both daggers on her waists, and nose plugged, Agrippa is prepared for the basement descent. If there is a party formation request, she will ask to be around the middle of the party.
"Here, your voucher. Happy... y'know, I think he misses wha' you used to be. I've known him for a'while an' he's forgivin' enough. If you see it in yer'self to be proud of your daughter's choices 'n lift your spirits, you wouldn' need these vouchers to see Happy again. He woul' love to serve a productive merchant o' the Fence again. Now, we're gonna get your lab clean. I hope you find it in yerself to make use o' it again." Agrippa grins, trying desperately not to show her fangs. (Diplomacy: 21; to try and stop his alcoholism)
"Also, Happy warned if you make a scene, he'll ban you fer life." Agrippa grins again, with fangs.
Before entering the basement, Micah takes Rielbel aside from the others. "We were told of your troubles. I am deeply troubled by your pain. I must confess I am too young to truly understand it. But I do know that you are not helping your daughter by destroying yourself. You must prepare for when she returns. If she did, would you want her to see you like this?" After a moment of silent sharing, he pats Rielbel on the shoulder and says, "Thank you for granting us access to your house. You may have saved lives."
Micah then readies his sword and hammer after offering to provide magical light to whoever wishes it.
Roland (Andrew Z.) Tuesday November 10th, 2015 10:01:23 PM
Roland goes down in the basement, hammer in hand. " who shall be the torchbearer? I don't have a free hand to hold the light. "
Knowing what little he does about the cult and listening to Stohp as she explains the rest, Pesmer does wonder just how deep into this organization the daughter really is. Did she go in thinking it was one thing then get captured? He sure hoped not..
Saying nothing as the others talk to the Alchemist, Pesmer waits till they all enter the building before he addresses the man. Gently patting the drunks shoulder, he speaks softly. "Enjoy yourself at the bar.. Though, from one who studies the art to another... I hope you sober up, friend. If your daughter needs help.. Let us know." (Diplomacy 22)
As they venture into the basement, Pesmer shakes his head towards Roland's question as he holds up his quarterstaff. "Neither do I. Cannot fight with my staff and cast magic and hold a torch."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 5/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 Wednesday November 11th, 2015 9:52:20 AM
Stohp volunteers to hold the torch, she only needs one hand for her sap anyway.
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 d20+1=7 ; Wednesday November 11th, 2015 2:50:36 PM
Norr prepares for battle before entering the basement with the others. Sufficiently armed, he keeps an eye out for anything out of place there. (Perception 7)
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 Wednesday November 11th, 2015 9:03:51 PM
To Stohp, "I think Domi's blessing of light will be more flexible. However, the torch might come in handy if we need to ignite something or light another area." He asks a quick prayer and recreates the light spell after asking Roland where he would prefer it to be placed. [OOC: will cast light on helmet, hammer, shield or something else.]
He then stands ready to grant a strength surge to one of the combatants in the front line should the make a melee attack. (This grants +1 to hit on melee attacks for one round.)
Koh Shatterhorn (Alex F.) HP: 13/13 AC/TCH/FF: 14/13/12 CMB: +4 CMD: 16 Wednesday November 11th, 2015 9:44:29 PM
Koh brings up the rear, just so she can take her time with her large size. And the others are pepping up the drunk.
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 8/8 AC:12/12/10 d20+2=10 ; Wednesday November 11th, 2015 10:53:21 PM
Pesmer has his Quarterstaff in hand as he peers about the house as they make their way towards the stares and down them. (Perception 10) He looks for signs of wererats or dire rats.
Looking over to Micah as he casts his light spell, Pesmer becomes a tiny bit distracting in the magicks of such divine prayer. "One day we will have to discuss our way with magicks to one another, yes? I am all the curious to see your gifts and way of life, friend." He smiles at Micah, truly interested in his companions religious beliefs and powers.
The Tunnel in the Cellar (DM Cayzle) Wednesday November 11th, 2015 11:07:57 PM
The potion-maker scowls at Agrippa and Micah, disdaining their sympathy. "Blabbermouth innkeeper! My business is my own, and I'll thank you to stay out of it."
"Here!" he says as he unlocks the door. "May you find as many rats as you seek!" He steps back, scowling. At Pesmer's kind words, he mostly looks puzzled and says nothing.
The stairs going down are steep and stone. The stairway is only five ft wide, so the Taurs have to squeeze. Here are the squeezing rules, your new best friend:
Squeezing: In some cases, you may have to squeeze into or through an area that isn't as wide as the space you take up. You can squeeze through or into a space that is at least half as wide as your normal space. Each move into or through a narrow space counts as if it were 2 squares, and while squeezed in a narrow space, you take a –4 penalty on attack rolls and a –4 penalty to AC.
When a Large creature (which normally takes up 4 squares) squeezes into a space that's 1 square wide, the creature's miniature figure occupies 2 squares, centered on the line between the 2 squares. For a bigger creature, center the creature likewise in the area it squeezes into.
A creature can squeeze past a creature while moving but it can't end its movement in an occupied square.
To squeeze through or into a space less than half your space's width, you must use the Escape Artist skill. You can't attack while using Escape Artist to squeeze through or into a narrow space, you take a –4 penalty to AC, and you lose any Dexterity bonus to AC.
Norr sees a flickering light down below. Stohp holds a lit torch anyway. Micah casts a Light cantrip on some one or other of Roland's gear, and Roland seems willing to go first. Koh volunteers as rearguard. It is single file, so who is headed in what order in between?
[OOC: Yes, please, I am asking for a marching order!]
Agrippa (Jacob) HP: 10/10 AC: 16.(t)13.(ff)13 Thursday November 12th, 2015 12:03:35 AM
Agrippa offers, "I'll go after the armor-wearers, but before the Taurs. So tha's like third or fourth." She also hides her amusement at how serious lighting is to everyone else without her eyes.
Roland (Andrew Z.) Thursday November 12th, 2015 6:12:10 PM
Roland gladly leads the party, on his guard for any possible threat with hammer in hand. ( ready an action to swing at any hostile creature with power attack)
Pesmer Zerase (Ryan W.) HP: 8/8 AC:12/12/10 Thursday November 12th, 2015 6:39:56 PM
Pesmer falls in line right after Agrippa, going before the Taurs but mostly after everyone else. "I think this is a good place for me." He mostly says to himself as the party moves. He had enough ranged magick attacks to suit his place in line.
Norr (David S.) HP: 18/18 AC: 18/11/16 CMB :+5 Thursday November 12th, 2015 7:28:07 PM
Norr sighs, noticing the size of the stairs. He presses on however, directly behind Pesmer, slowly but surely.
Micah (John) HP: 10/10 AC: 17/10/17 Thursday November 12th, 2015 8:48:51 PM
Micah says to Pesmer, " I would like that. We will have to make sure 'one day' is soon". He then moves into position behind Roland, assuming that Norr doesn't wish to squeeze in before him. Shield ready and right hand poised to empower Roland with strength surge should he attack.
[OOC: If Norr is second then the readied action will be on Norr.]
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 5/9 AC: 13/12/10 CMB: +4 Thursday November 12th, 2015 9:50:46 PM
Stohp files in behind Nor, holding the torch high so everyone could see.
The Tunnel in the Cellar (DM Cayzle) Friday November 13th, 2015 8:17:11 AM
The young heroes proceed down the flight of stairs. By the time Koh sets foot on the highest stair, Roland has his foot on the bottommost.
Roland Micah Agrippa Pesmer Norr Stohp Koh
Roland, at the foot of the stairs, sees at least four big dire rats and four regular-sized rats ... but these regular size rats are not normal rats. Their teeth and claws glow, and as he watches, their fur starts to glow too.
This is clearly a room meant to be a first-rate alchemical lab, but right now it is a shambles. No human has been here in months. Every piece of glassware is broken, and the spill of chemicals and potions everywhere has created a toxic environment. There is a glowing pool in the sink. The place stinks. There is glass underfoot. The only thing still working as it should is the continual flame illuminating the place.
The dire rats see the smaller rats glowing, and they get agitated. So far they are out of range of Roland's hammer, but they are not running away, and in fact look like they will attack next round.
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