It's a beautiful morning/DM Buzz Wednesday January 19th, 2011 2:33:26 PM Restlin does not hesitate to introduce himself so he can get to know the others. He volunteers to cast spells in their name, if could be given an opportunity. Carl, please grant me access to your spell list.
Beltrin on the other hand, plays it cool and watches the group. He has heard a lot about them but wishes to form his own opinions. Even so, his stature amongst the other guests means, he is not just a hired hand for the house. Keith, I don't see any weapons for your character on your sheet. Is that correct?
Bosk welcomes those that want to join the group and looks forward to testing their mettle in combat. He does explain to the newcomers, that life outside of Hook City and it's protective walls are harsh and one should be prepared for the aggressive winds and cold, that chips away at your spirit, like an axe against an ice block.
Zeoll has seen in his longer life many companions come and go through his career. Will there be a time when he finds the group of people where he can finally fulfill his destiny? The thoughts are fleeting as he loves to meet new people and he gets to know well, those that wish to join the company he keeps.
Kyan complements the bard before accepting the invitation to join The iron Adventurers. By his form and implements of work, he too will be handy in a fight.
Beriothian is glad that others saw their groups need for more companions and he welcomes them to join the two taurs and an elf, in their endeavors to help others and get rich in the process.
So it is, the group is welcome to stay the evening in comfort as Mistress Marta has many spare rooms, all of which is elegant, even if considered the minimum for comfort. The morning comes without incident and three of the six soldiers of good have seen the spread Mistress Marta puts out for her house staff and guests.
Food covers the table and this time, she is prepared for large guests as Bosk is not handed serving ware to eat with, but actually, a very large utensil set, perfect for his large, thick hands.
Mistress Marta is not present, but the group does have a young lady named Gale that is willing to wait on your needs this day. She also tells the group, your rooms are being prepared for tonight as well and will be ready for you upon your return.
Kyan(Jon) AC:19/13/16 HP: 48/48 Wednesday January 19th, 2011 4:32:46 PM
Kyan spends the remainder of the day and evening with the others, largely remaining quiet to listen, but explaining when asked some about his past. He was a native of the city and grew up in Labor, but had no interested in following in his parents footsteps, instead choosing the life of a caravan guard travelling to and from Hook City for several years.
He retires to a room early and opens his purse to provide himself with a companion for the night. He greets the others with a small smile and nods appreciatively at the spread before them, "It seems we will not go hungry at least." before setting about filling two plates with food.
"Do we have plans for this day?"
Please be aware/DM Buzz Wednesday January 19th, 2011 5:02:47 PM
ooc: Please be aware of the monetary currency used in this city. Everything here is very expensive. the ladies provide a wide range of entertainment for guests of the house, but anything other that what would be found on the skills list, would cost a couple of Red Chits. If you can afford that, please mark it off your character sheets.
Beltrin (Keith) AC: 15/14/11 HP: 47/47 Spells Wednesday January 19th, 2011 5:07:34 PM
Beltrin makes some small talk with the other members of the group before heading to bed, mainly inquiring to their future plans. Unless directly questioned, he mentions little of his past, only that he worked as a mercenary in Mudtown before realizing his true calling and became an apprentice wizard. He partakes only lightly in the wine and other refreshments and retires to his room early, graciously thanking Mistress Marta for her hospitality before taking his leave.
He is up early in the morning and appears more energetic and talkative than the night before. Digging into the breakfast prepared for them, he greets the others with a smile and follows up on Kyan's question.
"Indeed, what plans do we have? It's a beautiful day in the City and I hope to prove my worth to all of you soon, for it appears that there are many challenges ahead of us."
ooc: DM Buzz, sorry, I had my weapons in my equipment list, but I hadn't calculated out my attacks. They are there now, let me know if you have any questions.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 Wednesday January 19th, 2011 6:56:35 PM
ooc: How long did we spend celebrating yesterday? I had intended to go to the WLA (but that was before we received our new members, and before he was surrounded by beautiful women.)
DM Buzz: All day and all night, but only if you wanted to stay. You can leave such a fun time, if Beriothian desires.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 Wednesday January 19th, 2011 7:05:51 PM
ooc: Leave a party where the women are beautiful and the wine flows freely? That doesn't sound like Beri... or a rogue... or any man...
Zeoll (HP14, AC17) [PF Zeoll] Wednesday January 19th, 2011 7:20:07 PM
... or any bard ... or any liontaur.
:-)
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 14/12/12 HP:35 Wednesday January 19th, 2011 8:56:36 PM ooc: I have no idea how many chits I may have. It's unlikely I have much, but I didn't take that into account when I created my character. I just have the GP I had left after spending it on outfitting Restlin. Also, my spells show as being viewable to anyone with the link. I added Buzz as an editor in case that's what he meant.
The rest of the evening is spent getting to know his fellow adventurers. Restlin proves to be most agreeable, if a bit awkward and naive. It's unlikely he made it through an entire evening without having to pull his foot from his mouth.
The next morning, Restlin's excitement seems to have simmered a bit, but he remains full of energy and anticipation. He eats sparingly, picking mostly fruits and the occasional bit of meat or cheese.
Perhaps someone could fill us newcomers in? If we're to prove our worth, we should certainly know what we're going up against. Personally, I know I'm a lot more effective when I have a bit of time to plan ahead.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 d20+16=34 ; Wednesday January 19th, 2011 8:59:45 PM
Beriothian spends the night laughing and dancing with the beautiful women. He retells the tale of their hunting down Twice several times, each time embellishing it a little more. After hours of drink and dancing Beri heads to his room and spends some time unwinding. He takes out his tools and and starts working on a high quality tent (just in case he ever finds himself sleeping outdoors in a storm like Zeoll does). In this peaceful environment the work goes far faster than he would have expected. By the time sleep starts to enter his eyes the tent has already started to take shape.
The next morning Beri rises only after hearing the soft thud of a taur passing in front of his bed chamber. He rises and joins the others for breakfast and to discuss their plans for the day.
I know some of us need to go to the WLA to train, and to check with their sources for rumors of a troubador or of a new string of kidnappings.
ooc: re-rolling my craft DC since I had the modifier wrong last Friday craft (leather) d20+16=34 => (78.57/100) progress on the tent
(-3.33gp for materials)
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 Wednesday January 19th, 2011 9:16:10 PM
Beriothian sips his coffee and responds to Restlin.
You have every right to know what we are up against. Unfortunately, at the moment we don't have any answers. Besides hunting down a trobador we are also investigating a kidnapping ring. The kidnappings are temporarily stopped as we chased the kidnappers out of town, but the one that payed for the kidnappings is still at large. We believe the healer Twice was staying with works for him. She was to act as middleman in transferring the victims, though we believe it was only under the orders of her superiors.
It actually wouldn't surprise me if she told us exactly who was behind this, she found the entire thing very distasteful. I fear that even if she could tell us exactly who was behind them it wouldn't help much. Without concrete proof we really can't do much, especially if a holy man is running things. We will deffinetly follow up with the priestess, but the sad truth is that we likely are powerless to help until he is bold enough to strike again.
ooc:which is great since we have another module to run until then :)
Bosk (James) AC: 18/11/17 HP 41 of 41 Spells Thursday January 20th, 2011 9:28:45 AM
Bosk enjoys the party and spends the rest of the evening dancing and getting to know the rest of the Iron Adventurer's. After a few too many glasses of wine the blond taur excuses himself for the night before he finds himself needing to ask the forgiveness of Gargul for giving into the most primal of urges, a temptation made all the worse by the presense of several beautiful female taurs...a sight s home island. Not that Gargul would be particularly displeased with such actions, but his mother would. God rest her soul.
In the morning Bosk joins the others for breakfast and agrees with Beri's idea of training at the WLA the next few days. He also informs the newest members that they went on an adventure through the Sargrass to rescue a Chieftain's son and were joined by Magistar Alistair, a family friend and resident of Hook City. One of their party mambers, a Priestess of the Flower left with him to further her studies. It is his hopes that she will be able to tell them where they could find a troubador, or at the very least where the temple she had trained at was.
As far as the healer, all we know for sure is that she is helpping the people of Mudtown. Her concept of Balance in the Wold has more to do with being productive than with right and wrong. There is a chance she is devling into darker stuff, but we cannot say forsure. We do know her sibblings are tough. There are at least two very large fighter types and two who are said to beable to steal the cloths off your back while you sleep. The healer herself hears the voices of spirits, and I wouldn't be suprised if she has some magical talent, but she has not revealed any to us. She has offered to help me learn more about her beliefs. I must admit that I am curious as I have dedicated my life to keeping the balance of the Wold with Gargul, however her beliefs are shrouded in mystery and I fear accidently delving into something dark without realizing it.
ooc:Bosk would like to join Beri and the others at the WLA and to stop by Magistar Alistair's to speak to Grendle about finding a Troubador or Temple of the Flower, and then return here to spend the night.
Bosk (James) AC: 18/11/17 HP 41 of 41 Spells Thursday January 20th, 2011 9:37:46 AM
ooc: Restlin, many of us in the wold have access to literally hundreds of docs. It may be easier if you publish your spells as a webpage and then give us the link. To do this click on the share button (it is on the upper right part of the screen when you are in your document, next to the save button). A menu should drop down, and you should select Publish as a web page.... A new window will pop up with instructions and a new webaddress / link to your doc. Anyone who clicks on it will be able to read it, but only you (or those you give access) can edit it.
Also, I have given The Powers That Be an update for the Hook City Wikki. There is a section in it called The Story So Far which is a Journal account of our hero's adventures written in the third person. Hopefully the page will get updated soon.
Zeoll (HP14, AC17) [PF Zeoll] Thursday January 20th, 2011 11:17:56 AM
Zeoll enjoys the company and the refreshments for the rest of the day and the evening. He sings from time to time, dances a little too, if there is enough space for it. He tries to learn the names and at least one detail about each of the workers present. He engages the newcomers, as well.
The liontaur asks Beltrin about his magical training. Is he a wizard or a sorcerer? Does he have a familiar? What spells does he favor? Zeoll is himself particularly fond of divination and enchantments.
What, Restlin is a wizard too? Excellent! Zeoll is pleased to have two new arcanists in the party. Especially since the liontaur is a magic item crafter, and he is eager to collaborate with these new comrades, if they are interested. He explains his first goal -- to obtain a Ring of Sustenance, the better to put the nighttime hours to use crafting.
And what of Kyan? Another spellcaster? A ranger? Zeoll's delight is even greater, if that is possible. As a druid, he has missed having someone to talk about nature and the wilds. Zeoll is both a druid and a bard, but here in Hook City, too often the natural is neglected. The liontaur engages Kayn, asking his favored enemies and terrains.
In the morning, over breakfast, Zeoll agrees with Beri and Bosk as to the party's priorities. "Yes, we have been mostly concerrned with the kidnappings in Mudtown lately, just because the dangerr to innocent people is so grreat." While his friends train with the WLA [Zeoll conceals his feelings about that organization, although his swishing tail reveals a hint], he proposes that the others visit the Healer, Heather is her name. She may know more, and at any rate, she is a good source of information in Mudtown. Just be polite.
Zeoll also mentions visiting the priestess of Flower, though he would prefer to do that with Bosk and Beri, since they know the cleric, and Zeoll does not. The liontaur joined the group after the cleric left to start her church.
And he mentions that the party owns a haunted tower in Hook City, haunted by the mostly harmless spirits of two young girls, who can be mischevious. But that adventure can wait.
"Who will go visit Heatherr with me?" he asks. "And Berri and Bosk, would you prreferr that we wait forr you?"
OOC: Are we limited to traveling around Hook City as a group, or at least passing in and out of the city as a group, because we possess only one license? What's the status on that, and who holds it?
Bosk (James) AC: 18/11/17 HP 41 of 41 Spells Thursday January 20th, 2011 12:00:55 PM
ooc: I Would perfer going to the healer as a group.
DM Buzz: If another character addresses yours, you can respond in character before the next DM post.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 14/12/12 HP:35 (Spells) Thursday January 20th, 2011 12:03:26 PM ooc: Ok, I think I've gotten my status correct. Should I know what WLA stands for?
DM Buzz: It stands for Woldian League of Adventurers. They are in the "Organizations", section of the Woldipedia.
Which way do we go?/DM Buzz Thursday January 20th, 2011 12:18:43 PM Kyan explains to everyone, even though he is a Hook City native, he is no Fop! He has seen many days outside of the walls and is an experienced hired hand. He clearly is not looking for an uneventful, easy life.
Beltrin has also spent time outside of Hook City. He has worked out there until, he feels, his true calling finally arrived and he decided to take up the arcane arts. An early night finds the new member up early.
Restlin has a great time at the house, if not a bit awkward from time to time, but the morning finds him more relaxed in the company of celebrities and he wonders how the new members can show what they have.
Beriothian has a good time the night before, but doesn't have so much fun, he can't put the seams in the tents fabric in straight, like he had planned. He's not sure about others but the WLA is calling him for a bit of training. Speaking of the Kon of the Edge, she is an enigma. You still have to finish this module my friend, before we move to the next one, however long that takes. :)
Bosk explains what he knows of the priestess in Mudtown. His theory's of her beliefs only a part of the facts he shares about her younger siblings. Jimbim is a big man, but Gat, he is a monster of a human.
Zeoll has a great time and instead of playing the guest, he becomes a performer at a celebration designed for him and his friends. In the morning, he has a full agenda set for the group and wonders if they can continue with the mission, while others want to do something else.
For those that have frequented Mudtown and have Knowledge Local, please make a DC 15 to have heard of the Brodery family.
Some one mentioned some time ago, I think it was Beri, the group needed to go to the Hook City deed office and file the paper work on the tower, to bring it current. That process will cost two White Chits but will confirm citizenship for the owners of the tower and then, they can come and go with more ease. Always keep in mind, once the gates are closed for the evening, no one may come or go, citizens or not and one must always go through the baths and inspections process upon entry.
It seems, the group is not yet finished on the days plans.
Bosk (James) AC: 18/11/17 HP 41 of 41 Spells Thursday January 20th, 2011 1:00:13 PM
As the group descusses the day's plans Bosk urges the others not to go to the healers until they are all together. That place is dangerous. We you could easily be surrounded and would definately be out numbered. They are a close family. Gat likes to fight, I believe he would start one just because he dosen't like the way your face looks and I have no doubt his family will defend him. I didn't mention this at the time, but I got the distinct impression that Clarissa, the one wearing a robe over what sounded like chain mail, didn't like us and didn't want us there. My feeling is we have to be even more carefull around her than we did around Gat or Jimbim.
Thinking back to the other night, I could also see and smell the sure signs of leprosy. There was a man on a cot there suffering from the advanced stages of leprosy. The only way for him person to recover at this point is with a Cure Disease spell. Even after that, he would be so disfigured that he would be lame and might even be blind. I could tell though, she did the best she could with natural remedies, it's just, sometimes everyone has a bad roll of the die.
I think our time would be better spent getting to know our newest members, so that if the worst were to happen we will be better able to play off each other's strengths. I think spending the next few days training, getting the paper work to the tower current, and gathering what information we can on troubadors and the spirits the Healer was in contact with would be a good course of action.
Beltrin (Keith) AC: 15/14/11 HP: 47/47 Spells d20=5 ; d20+9=28 ; Thursday January 20th, 2011 1:45:14 PM ooc: Knowledge (Local) = 5+9 = 14 Knowledge (Religion) to see what I know about Troubadors: 19+9 = 28
Beltrin expresses interest in joining Bosk and Beri at the WLA. It's been a long time since I've visited the outpost here in Hook City, but I remember the facilities being immaculate. It'll be good to get the blood pumping again. He also is curious to see what sort of abilities his new-found companions have.
He is happy to discuss his magical training with Zeoll. He explains that he came from the scholarly tradition of wizardry, although he never formed a bond with an animal the way that his master had. If Zeoll digs further, he can probably figure out that Beltrin has a bonded item, although Beltrin doesn't volunteer that information. He particularly favors spells of the transmutation school, preferring to alter the physical aspects of a situation to his favor. He also enjoys using conjuration and illusion spells.
When discussing the plans, he remains mostly quiet, allowing the members with more experience to make the decision about which leads to pursue.
Zeoll (HP14, AC17) [PF Zeoll] d20+9=15 ; Thursday January 20th, 2011 2:10:11 PM
Knowledge Local ... 15! Woot!
Now who the heck is the Brodery family?
Zeoll is fine with a two-day delay to do paperwork and so on.
Over those two days, he asks for Mistress Marta, and offers his services in Twice's rehab. Charm Person and Suggestion will keep him down on the farm and out of Paree for now, he thinks. If the boy is willing, he can choose not to make the saves. The cure is not so bad, accompanied by some sweet performances, and if Zeoll can take 10, that's a guaranteed 30 with heroism and guidance spells for a boost. Maybe some of Mistress Marta's people have sweet enough voices or some small talent with dance or instruments to give a +2 aid another on that too.
DM Buzz: LOL, the Brodery's are the family of Heather, Jimbim, etc...
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 14/12/12 HP:35 (Spells) Thursday January 20th, 2011 2:26:57 PM
Restlin's face lights up at Zeoll's interest in crafting magic items.
I too am fascinated by creating magic item, especially jewelry and rings!
Restlin shows off a ring and necklace provided to him by his master in an effort to keep the poor boy alive through his days as an adventurer.
I'm not quite there yet, but I'm learning how to craft rings and enchant them. He pulls out a small set of jeweler's tools. I picked these up some time ago. I think I've gotten pretty good, but I need a lot more practice before I can make anything able to hold an enchantment.
As far as our plans, I'm sure Beltrin and I can agree that the more we know about how we can help the group out, the better. I had to learn my magic the old-fashioned way, too. Some time spent training together would be a good decision, for sure...
Bosk (James) AC: 18/11/17 HP 41 of 41 Spells Thursday January 20th, 2011 2:30:43 PM
ooc: Zeoll, only the three new players need to make the roll to know about the Brodery family. Heather Brodery is the name of the healer, the others are her sibblings and her family.
Bosk (James) AC: 18/11/17 HP 41 of 41 Spells Thursday January 20th, 2011 2:37:33 PM
Bosk's ears perk up when he hears that Restlin has some knowledge of Jewlery and rings. Perhaps you could help us identify something. We found this "talisman" in the haunted tower. Perhaps you could tell us something as to it's worth. Perhaps between your knowledge of rings and Zeoll's amazing Bard Lore we can get one step closer to learning about the mysteries of the tower.
Referenceing the ring found on Nov. 2.2010: A small talisman is found in the back of one of the rooms. It is brass and tarnished and would require some form of knowledge to know if it has some meaning or is a worthless piece of costume jewelry.
Kyan mostly listens to the others as they make their plans while he eats the morning meal, though he leaves one of the plates laden with food untouched by his side.
"I've always meant to visit the WLA here in the city. I've known a few members, but I've never put the coin together myself to join." Is his only comment unless pressed for more. Spending a few days milling about the city and seeing what the WLA had to while his new found companions tied up some loose ends with the city sounded fine to him. He was confident enough in his abilities and in no rush to prove himself.
OOC: Oh, Heather BRODERY! Sure, I knew that. D'Oh!
Beltrin (Keith) AC: 15/14/11 HP: 47/47 Spells d20+9=11 ; d20=5 ; d20+13=15 ; Thursday January 20th, 2011 4:08:57 PM
When Bosk produces the ring, Beltrin also gathers around it to see if any of his diverse experiences shed a light on the origin of the ring. He also casts detect magic.
Knowledge (Any, they're all the same score): 2+9 = 11 Appraise: 5+9 = 14 Spellcraft: 2+13 = 15
ooc: Ouch! What a set of rolls, glad I got those out before any combat occurred!
Before dismissing the spell, Beltrin also takes a surreptitious glance at his comrades to get a rough idea of the magical equipment that they're carrying.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 d20+8=24 ; Thursday January 20th, 2011 8:38:11 PM I agree with Bosk, it would be best not to visit the healer alone. Mud Town in general is not safe, and those protecting the priestess tend to be on edge. I would love to see if anyone knows about this ring tough.
As for today's plans, we can take care of the paperwork for the tower this morning if we have the chits.
ooc: well, I rolled for the knowledge check before I realized who they were.... apparently I knew a lot about them, just not their last name :P
Bosk (James) AC: 18/11/17 HP 41 of 41 Spells Thursday January 20th, 2011 10:22:32 PM I'll gladly chip in for the tower. How much do we need?
Bosk will chip in up to 1 white chit (100 gp) for registering the tower.
Bureaucracy/DM Buzz d100=10 ; Friday January 21st, 2011 1:12:14 PM Beltrin is quite interested in visiting the WLA with the others. Until then, he is happy to let the veterans of the group determine the next course of action.
Restlin loves to talk about magic and is willing to do so at length. Like his newer comrade, he lets the two taurs and the elf determine their day's plans.
Kyan is also interested in the WLA and would like to know more about it. Likewise, he will let the others find their days travels.
Zeoll is fine with finishing up some paper work, allowing the group more freedom with the city gates. When he offers a magical persuasion over Twice, Mistress Marta absolutely refuses the offer. "He would not allow it and if it failed, he would never come home. We can not have that!"
Bosk strongly recommends the group go into Mudtown together, especially if they are going back to visit the Kon of The Edge and her siblings. He is reminded of a trinket the group found in the tower and asks if others might be able to discern something of it?
Beriothian makes a witty pun. Suggesting as well the group stay together for the next couple of days. Highlight to display spoiler: {"Those protecting the priestess tend to be on edge." She is a Kon of The Edge...Get it?}
So the trinket is looked at much closer. It is quite tarnished and needs to be cleaned up a bit, but a decent appraisal discovers, the metal is made of steel and the design is quite complicated. Looking at it closely, it looks like a labyrinth. Along the path, there seems to be settings, where rooms might be, the small stones resting there are now gone. Perhaps it is a map? It does not detect magic. Not much else can be discovered at this time.
So, the day is brisk, but for those that have been out in Mudtown at this time of day, it is clear the Magic City holds it's name well, because outside the city walls, the wind is likely howling with a winter front moving in again and the temperature, much, much lower.
Walking through labor town, back to Soldier City and to the administrative offices. The group finds, of course, a line of people. The group is about to get a taste of Hook City bureaucracy. First, the group gets a number, just to get a number. It might not be possible to get in today and an appointment might need to be set up.
Let us turn to the random dice generator to see what it says. There is a 10% chance the group will have an appointment today and each 10% there after, is how many days it will take to see the person you need to. What Luck! Surely, Wardd has blessed these adventurers, but they have the entire day they have to kill, there appointment being the last one of the day. Her name is Jacqueline Effediette and like all things, the group receives this information in a very proper manner. "Everyone involved with the property will need to be present for the interview."
So, the group can spend some time over the next few hours, sight seeing or what have you. Highlight to display spoiler: {Please let me know if there is anything you want to do for four hours. If it might take longer then that, there is a chance you will miss your appointment.}
During the process, you are met by a woman in very business like clothes. Her long blonde hair tied up in a tight bun. Her otherwise beautiful face, devoid of expression. In a monotone voice, she asks, "How can Hook City assist you today?"
Zeoll (HP14, AC17) [PF Zeoll] d20+9=14 ; d20+17=18 ; Friday January 21st, 2011 3:20:50 PM
Zeoll spends four hours waiting patiently and making sure that we have all the paperwork we might need that we already possess, such as that given when we purchased the property, and the form declaring us the "Iron Adventurers." He also prepares several copies of a list of our names formal names, faces, genders, affiliations, and titles, howsoever players wish to be known.
For example, Zeoll lists himself as "Zeoll of Clan Aene, a male liontaur seer-in-training, formerly of the Taur Isles of the North."
When the functionary approaches, Zeoll responds as best he deems appropriate in such a situation. Or, at least, he tries to remember the proper response. A deep bow? An offer of a handshake? The special "welcome bureaucrat" dance that all local bards know? He strains his brain to recall the proper way to show respect. Knowledge Local turns up a 14. Hmmm, better just go with the safest option.
Zeoll bows slightly and replies, "Thank you. We arre herre to file the prroperr paperrworrk for a deed to a prroperrty we own, brringing it up to date, and also leading to the corrrect citizenship confirrmation for us jointly as owners. We are legally acknowledged as the "Irron Adventurrerrs" grroup herre in Hook City. Herre arre ourr names and documents."
He hands over the papers and answers any questions she might have. Diplomacy 18.
needed to go to the Hook City deed office and file the paper work on the tower, to bring it current. That process will cost two White Chits but will confirm citizenship for the owners of the tower and then
Beltrin (Keith) AC: 15/14/11 HP: 47/47 Spells d20+2=12 ; Friday January 21st, 2011 6:32:58 PM I presume that the existing members of the Iron Adventurers aren't offering ownership shares in the tower to the fresh faces that just arrived off the streets. So my post is assuming that Restlin, Kyan and I are not at the government office with the others. If we are present (and Beltrin is quite happy to chip in to the ownership fee, up to 1 white chit) Beltrin attempts to help Zeoll grease the wheels of bureaucracy. Aid another diplomacy: 12
While the veteran members attend to their matters of propery, Beltrin spends his time asking around about the Brodery family. He also keeps an ear out for any rumors about his family or old acquaintances.
Diplomacy, Gather Information: 12
Zeoll (HP14, AC17) [PF Zeoll] Friday January 21st, 2011 7:12:20 PM
OOC: Actually, Zeoll's hope is that the party as a legal group (The "Iron Adventurers") will own the tower, making it a "party item" and conferring citizenship on whoever is in the party at any given time. When new people join the party, they get part ownership.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 Friday January 21st, 2011 7:20:21 PM
ooc: I will post in full when I have a little more time, but when we were switching to Pathfinder we made the decision that the tower (as well as shop in MudTown) are to be the property of the IA, and as such all members (including the new ones we were expecting to eventually get) have an equal share to it.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 14/12/12 HP:35 (Spells) d20+9=19 ; Friday January 21st, 2011 7:54:14 PM
Restlin is a bit unsure of himself, having no real experience in bureaucracy or diplomacy. He's willing to cash up a chit to do his part, but would rather spend his time restoring the talisman.
[i]ooc: Craft jewelry to restore the talisman to some semblance of it's original state: 19
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 Friday January 21st, 2011 7:58:46 PM
ooc: since the meeting is at the end of the day can we assume that those in the WLA are able to do their training and then meet up?
Training in four hours? I will have to read up on it, but no, I don't think so. I will let you know for certain by the end of the weekend.
Zeoll (HP14, AC17) [PF Zeoll] Friday January 21st, 2011 9:01:22 PM
Maybe they could get half a day in of their required two days?
Bureaucracy/DM Buzz Friday January 21st, 2011 9:02:05 PM ooc: After looking at the guide lines for training, it seems the person needing to train needs two full days of training. I will say they should be consequetive.
That means, the group is down for two days and the person you are after has two more days to abduct someone else, or leave the area to perform their nefarious deeds elsewhere.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 Friday January 21st, 2011 9:22:19 PM
ooc: it was 4 hours from the time Zeoll made it through the first line, and we were one of the last three appointments for the day, so I was assuming those not with Zeoll had 8 hours.
Zeoll (HP14, AC17) [PF Zeoll] Friday January 21st, 2011 9:53:21 PM
How come you guys are so keen on training in the middle of the module? Why not wait until the end?
Am I missing something?
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 d20+8=15 ; d20+11=22 ; d4=4 ; Friday January 21st, 2011 10:55:54 PM
After getting their ticket number the group discusses how to spend the rest of the day. Hook City is a huge place, with countless sites to see. The market is sure to be filled with all types of people, possibly someone there has seen a Troubadour. Perhaps the poorer residents of Labor Town would be more likely to share rumors of the those living in the squalor of Mud Town. The elf considers for a moment the best place to look for information on the kidnappings given the time he has to get there and back.
Local Knowledge = 15 (to determine location) Gather Information = 22 Gather Information takes the full 4 hours
ooc: Zeoll, you aren't really missing anything. Since it takes all morning to get a number and we have to be back in the evening we really need to stay in Hook City. It just seemed like an ideal time. Plus the combination of the WLA pins being discussed in the player introductions, the WLA having an information gathering roll (which is where we are at in the module), and Beriothian's personal roll as a skill monkey made going to the WLA a natural direction for Beri to lean at the moment.
Bosk (James) AC: 18/11/17 HP 41 of 41 Spells d20-1=2 ; Saturday January 22nd, 2011 12:25:14 PM
Bosk decides to look for a temple dedicated to the Edge, but is unable to find one. After spending an hour looking, he becomes completely lost. By the time he rejoins the group he decides to give up on gathering information and leaves such tasks to the more charismatic members of the group.
Gather information = 2
ooc: Bosk likes going to the WLA as soon as possible after leveling, because you never know when an adventure will take us to the Sargrass and unable to reach the WLA for that level. It's more a matter of not missing an opporunity, and that he conciders rising through the ranks of the WLA a thing of pride and honor. Especially since at the highest levels you are concidered on par with Nobillity.He is also not one to be a member in name only.
Beltrin (Keith) AC: 15/14/11 HP: 47/47 Spells d20+2=3 ; Saturday January 22nd, 2011 9:05:46 PM
Beltrin is pleasantly surprised by the generosity of the Iron Adventurers in giving the new members fair shares in their hard won property. To become a property holder in Hook City is something that he would not have dreamed of happening so soon.
Indeed, the rumors of the magnanimity of the Iron Adventurers are spoken truly! I promise you that I will prove myself worthy to be counted among you.
He decides to join Beriothan in investigating the rumors of the kidnappings before returning for the official recording.
If it's possible for aid another to work in these circumstances, I'll keep my above roll (12) for helping Zeoll make things go smoothly with the bureaucrat. Then I'll try to help Beri with his Gather Information: 3.
Zeoll (HP14, AC17) [PF Zeoll] Sunday January 23rd, 2011 5:09:43 PM
Zeoll looks gratefully at Beltrin for his help, but doesn't say thank you because he does not want to seem unprofessional.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 d20+11=17 ; Sunday January 23rd, 2011 11:32:50 PM
Beriothian takes in the situation at the permit office. Everything appears to be very professional and by-the-book here. He is polite to the business woman and tries to stick with protocol as best he can. Afterward he thanks the woman for helping them.
Thank you for fitting us into your schedule today, it means a lot to us that we can now call this great city our home. By the way, I know our property has a sad and well known story behind it. Would you be able tell us anything you've heard regarding the former inhabitants?
Diplomacy = 17
Kyan(Jon) AC:19/13/16 HP: 48/48 Monday January 24th, 2011 10:35:12 AM
Kyan carries the spare plate of food with him as they leave the house and once outside moves to an alley to the side of the building. He dumps the plate on the ground and makes a low whistle. A dark colored lynx pads out of the shadows and bends down to sniff at the offered food while Kyan kneels down to ruffle the fur on the creatures back. He murmers to the large cat a moment before returning the plate to one of the employees and moving off with the others and the cat bounds up beside him a few moments later, licking its chops.
His career as a merchant with long stretches of doing nothing but waiting prepared him well for dealing with the city bureaucracy, but it did little to help with looking for the information they sought. Instead of questioning though, he followed the others and kept a watchful eye out for anyone that may be taking an undue amount of interest in the group. With the group's involvement with the kidnappers it was very likely that the people they were after were aware of it and may be watching for them as well.
By the book/DM Buzz d100=19 ; d20+9=14 ; Monday January 24th, 2011 1:23:23 PM
When some in the group attempt to gather some information on the Brodery family or a Temple to The Edge, their attempts are unsuccessful. "A Temple to The Edge will likely(1) not be found in an area where a common law exists", one priest of Knowledge and Glory explains to those asking. "It is not in their nature to adhere to any laws but their own."
Ms. Effediette is neither friendly or unfriendly. She is however, very helpful in your needs and if someone in the group appears frustrated or overly friendly, she does not seem to notice.
After the group explains their situation, she explains, what they want to do is very easy, but it will require quite a bit of money and time.
"What you are proposing is a Corporation. I am a personal and residential officer and I can not help you, however, I can give you the proper forms you will need to have filled out by all persons involved and the residence must be inspected and zoned for commercial use."
She looks at the calendar and excuses herself for a few minutes before returning to the group, "I have arranged for an expedited meeting for those involved. Those in the Corporation are to return back here in two days after today and your appointment will be the last one of the day, starting in the late afternoon. On that day, they will inform you of what time you will be seen, depending upon capacity for that day. Hook City apologizes for the inconvenience you all must go through at this time, but the paperwork will get you started and it will decrease your time here, once you arrive."
She puts all your old paper work and the forms she gave you, in a large envelope, then she seals it and stamps the seal with her official stamp. " Breaking the seal indicates you are satisfied with your service today. If you have any issue with what I have shared with you today, you may take this to my supervisor, sealed, and she will proceed with any claims you may have. "
She passes the group the envelope and for the first time while you have been with her, she smiles and asks, "Is there anything else I can assist you with today?"
She is asked a question about the residence in question and she looks again at her own paperwork to assess the question. "I am not aware of any misfortunes of that residence. You will need to ask elsewhere for that information."
(1)Highlight to display spoiler: { I say this as a current Hook City DM. This in no way means that a temple won't be found in another game, nor does it imply a future DM must stand by this decision. :)}
Bosk (James) AC: 18/11/17 HP 41 of 41 Spells Monday January 24th, 2011 2:07:49 PM Yes, there is one more thing. You said that it will require quite a bit of time an dmoney to become incorporated. Could you by any chance tell us about how much we can expect it to cost?
By the book/DM Buzz Monday January 24th, 2011 9:13:55 PM
The helpful lady responds, "That is dependant upon your needs. All of that will be outlined in the paper work I gave you, but it depends on if you want to have a President and Vice-president for the corporation or if you want to have a board of equal members with a Chairman. If you choose the board, it will cost one Orange Chit per person documented, on that board, but if you go with the President and Vice-President option, it is one Green Chit."
She goes on to volunteer information. "If you will be having people come and go from your corporation, I would suggest going with a board."
Zeoll (HP14, AC17) [PF Zeoll] Monday January 24th, 2011 9:26:31 PM
Zeoll thanks the functionary for her help, and asks if there is a time element involved in these matters. How long can we proceed as we have been, with a simple lease on the tower and organization as a recognized adventuring group only, not organized into an adventuring company?
By the book/DM Buzz Monday January 24th, 2011 9:40:20 PM
She answers, "There is no time limit really, but I recommend you take care of this issue as soon as possible. If you do not have the proper ownership requirements or the owners have changed frequently, then the future process will become more complicated."
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 Monday January 24th, 2011 10:24:32 PM
ooc: I will post later, I am trying to figure out some bizarre problem on my character sheet (well, the problems aren't bizarre, it's how they were introduced. It looks like two versions of my document were merged, and when I went back to see where the problem came from I ended finding a series of about 10 corrupted previous versions.)
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 Monday January 24th, 2011 11:41:54 PM Forgive be, but I believe there is a misunderstanding. We are a private company, and I do not believe we wish to become a corporation, unless you believe there would be a demand to buy stock in the Iron Adventurers. However, the Iron Adventurers are already legally registered as a company within this fine city. It was very clear at the time of our companies registration that each member has an equal stake in the company, and each member had an equal say at that time in the naming of it.
ooc: The above incident occurred on April 22nd, 2010 5:38:59 PM We are not just a mercenary band, we literally are a registered company withing the city already. Also, my assumption is that we don't want a board of directors, elected by the stockholders, being responsible for the management of us as corporation, I am pretty sure we would rather stay a company so that the group of owners (us) handle the management... yes, I'm a nerd.
By the book/DM Buzz Tuesday January 25th, 2011 1:29:58 AM
She explains to everyone, "You are a "registered company" as you say and you want to file a title under that name. This is not a residential property transaction. You want to run a business or maybe several business's out of this property. Even if you do not, you are registering under a company name. That is why I have to refer you to the business department. If there were a sole owner or owners, I could help you, but from what I have heard. (1) You want a private company to own shares in the estate. You only have to have as many shares as you desire, whether it is eight or eight hundred. If you stay a private company though, every time a person that has a share in property joins, all of the paper work has to be redone. The persons that are being signed off of the title must do so in writing or evidence of their demise must be presented, as well, every time a new member joins, all those present in the title must be witness and sign off on all future titles. Incorporating your company allows one or two people to file the paper work for everyone. If someone is to be added to the title, they and only one of the other members must be present, if it is a board, but the President or Vice president are the only ones that can add or remove a member from the title."
She gives a bit more information. "I really am not the expert on such matters and everything I have said is also outlined in the paper work I gave you. Your agent at the time will be happy to offer you the best options for you and your company's prosperity. If you have trouble filling it out, we do have intern agents available to assist those that need to have things explained easier."
She remains calm as she explains the complex system of Hook City.
(1)Highlight to display spoiler: { Zeoll bows slightly and replies, "Thank you. We arre herre to file the prroperr paperrworrk for a deed to a prroperrty we own, brringing it up to date, and also leading to the corrrect citizenship confirrmation for us jointly as owners. We are legally acknowledged as the "Irron Adventurrerrs" grroup herre in Hook City. Herre arre ourr names and documents."
OOC: Actually, Zeoll's hope is that the party as a legal group (The "Iron Adventurers") will own the tower, making it a "party item" and conferring citizenship on whoever is in the party at any given time. When new people join the party, they get part ownership. }
Beltrin (Keith) AC: 15/14/11 HP: 47/47 Spells Tuesday January 25th, 2011 1:37:52 AM
Beltrin is a bit bewildered as this is his first encounter with the infamous Hook City red tape that his elders always complained about. He listens attentively to the dialogue between his new companions and the clerk, trying to remember all the details of the current legal state of the Iron Adventurers and what it may mean for his future with them. However, he says little, merely wincing at the mention of the expense and nodding supportively with Beri's rebuttal.
ooc: Jeez, I thought we role-played as an escape from real life :) Makes me want to take out my greatsword and cut straight through the red tape (as I can't do IRL).
DM Buzz: :) I understand and this is why I am attempting to make your lives easier in the future with the Hook City red tape. But it is also very important for me, as the DM to stress to you how lawful and organized this city is, on occassion. At least the city employees are really trying to be helpful?
Beltrin (Keith) AC: 15/14/11 HP: 47/47 Spells Tuesday January 25th, 2011 1:56:04 AM ooc: I totally understand and I'm not complaining, I just thought it was kind of funny to go from doing my taxes to dealing with fantasy bureaucrats....
Bosk (James) AC: 18/11/17 HP 41 of 41 Spells Tuesday January 25th, 2011 11:12:29 AM
Bosk thanks the lay and leaves the office. Turning to the others he says, All of this bureaucracy almost makes me rethink moving into Hook City. There must be a better way to go about this. Maybe the residents of Hook City hire others to wait in line and do this kind of thing for them. Either way, I think we are going to have to make a little more gold before we go through this process, and we better read up on the inspection of the property. I have a nagging suspicion that it will require getting rid of the ghosts residing there.
She said we have to return in two days, that would only give us a day at the WLA and wouldn't give us much time to get the gold together. Here is my suggestion. I think we should return to Mudtown and visit the Brodery family at see if we can learn more about the kidnappings. Perhaps we can get some sort of reward for catching the kidnapper or rescuing their captives.
Should that fail, we should also return to Black's shop and talk among ourselves and with Sanji about preparing it for sale. For you new guys, we own a shop in mud town that sells most non-magical objects that you could want. The building was worth 2,000 gold when we obtained it, and in addition to the shop it had a complete residence with two bedrooms and a basement / cellar. We have three employees, Sanji, Hemust, and Jillian. Sanji and I are what's left of the original "Iron Band" members and she owns a share of the shop, the other two were former enemies whom we have convinced to turn their life around. They have spent the last month cleaning and doing some much needed upkeep and maintenance, and have raised the value of the shop some by doing so. Since that time we have added six additional bedrooms, a master bedroom (aka. A taur sized room) and an outdoor garden and gazebo (taur sized) where Zeoll resides. It is among the more fortified buildings in town. The windows are well barred, and in addition to the 5 locks that came on the door, we added several amazing quality locks inside and out. Our renovations and upgrades cost 1850 gold. I know Sanji wants to move to Mudtown and would run a shop there for us, but the topic has never come up with the other two.
Selling the shop could help us pay the title fees, however the shop is also handy. It provides us with a safe place to stay when we arrive too late to go through the gates into Hook City. Due to their background, Hemust and Jillian can both useful informant in Mudtown do to their shady and gang related connections. Lastly, due to traffic through the shop, we can get gossip of the happenings around town. It is also that shop which pays for our food (ie. Without the shop we need to pay for food every day and keep track of rations).
Either way, I suggest we start by returning to Mudtown and visiting The Healer
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 14/12/12 HP:35 (Spells) Tuesday January 25th, 2011 11:52:17 AM
After a night of celebration after meeting a band of fellow adventurers to travel with, Restlin can't help but feel a twinge of disappointment that his first act as an Iron Adventurer recruit is waiting in line. Still, it's probably important. Restlin is content to let the others handle the red tape.
When the time comes to move on and wait two days, however, he springs back to life.
Ok then, two days! Surely we can come up with something to occupy our time for two days. What's next on the agenda after "soul-crushing bureacracy?"
Beltrin (Keith) AC: 15/14/11 HP: 47/47 Spells Tuesday January 25th, 2011 12:33:45 PM
Beltrin nods as he listens to Bosk lay out the situation.
I agree that it doesn't seem feasible to be able to come up with the required fees in two days. It's not clear to me whether we need to have the money on hand at the meeting, or if the corporation fees can be paid later. I'm sure that the meeting will reveal other requirements that we'll have to go through to get the property re-zoned. I wouldn't sell the magic shop. It sounds like a handy place and an income producing property in Mudtown is worth hanging onto. It sounds like we can delay this process a bit while we raise the money for the corporation fees (and doubtless other zoning fees). You're right Bosk, there must be someone that we can hire to help us through this rigamarole, perhaps the League would know who to look up?
I agree that the most logical next step is to visit this Brodery family and see what they know of the kidnappings. Out of curiosity, have there been any patterns in the victims of the kidnappings? Perhaps we could try setting up a baited trap for the kidnappers if the Broderies don't give us any useful information?
Zeoll (HP14, AC17) [PF Zeoll] Tuesday January 25th, 2011 1:10:00 PM
Well, Zeoll says, gold is not our aim, but rather, those who have been abducted. "I agrree. The next step is to see Heatherr again and follow that lead."
Bosk (James) AC: 18/11/17 HP 41 of 41 Spells Tuesday January 25th, 2011 1:46:35 PM So far there has been no pattern to the kidnappings. The only person we know for sure was abducted in association with this kidnapper was a girl named Tali. She was kidnapped by a local gang who received an anonymous note instructing them to kidnap people and to bring them to the crossroads by the Brodery family's residence. That gang has since fled town.
Before that there were more kidnappings, which we believe to be associated with an occult led by a mindflayer that we killed. The occult was then broken up and driven out of town. Someone who helped us free Tali believes from his investigation that the two sets of kidnappings are related and the same person or group is behind both kidnappings.
I have never tired this before, but I know a cantrip that can help us to detect the victims. Normally it will direct me to someone within range who has prayed to Jancassis for help in revenge. However, if we can obtain a lock of hair or drop of blood from one of the Brodey's it will direct me to the nearest person wanting revenge on them. It would be difficult to obtain the hair, but if we can get it and they are behind the kidnappings, it could help us find the victims. Keep in mind, the Brodey family may be innocent, and if we were caught taking a lock of hair we would most likely be starting a nasty fight. We should maybe wait and save that option as a backup plan.
As the group discusses the evening's plans Bosk speaks up again. I should probably let you know that I am capable of crafting wondrous items (and everburning torches), and at the moment my personal needs are met and my free gold is at a minimum. Let me know if any of you need something crafted. I also carry my equipment with me, so if you need to borrow tools, an anvil and bellows, or anything along those lines feel free to use them if I'm not. If you let me know, I can also prepare divine spells for your crafts.
Zeoll (HP14, AC17) [PF Zeoll] Tuesday January 25th, 2011 5:59:49 PM
"We need to talk with Heatherr. She seems rreasonable, orr at least, you can talk with herr. Let's just ask herr about it, and see what she says. Lorrds above and below know I am willing to rrun a trrick orr two sometimes, but forr now, nice polite honest forrthrright converrsation seems the way to go. Especially since we seem to be on goodish terrrms."
Bosk (James) AC: 18/11/17 HP 41 of 41 Spells Tuesday January 25th, 2011 6:36:39 PM
"And I still want to learn more about the edge"
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 Tuesday January 25th, 2011 7:16:52 PM I agree with Zeoll, Heather is probably the person we should see next, however I doubt we have time tonight before they lock the gates. We should plan on doing that first thing in the morning so we have the whole day to follow leads.
Kyan(Jon) AC:19/13/16 HP: 48/48 Tuesday January 25th, 2011 9:56:38 PM "This healer seems as good a place to start. It makes sense to track your game from a place you know it frequents." Kyan adds his agreement to the others.
"And if the Healer proves to be of no help, but still suspicious, I imagine it would not be too difficult for us to distract the family while someone," he said with a glance towards the elven rogue, "could unobtrusively gather a sample of hair."
Zeoll (HP14, AC17) [PF Zeoll] Wednesday January 26th, 2011 9:02:49 AM
Zeoll makes sure to thank the bureaucrat who has been so helpful before the group leaves.
Into the cold/DM Buzz Wednesday January 26th, 2011 12:22:42 PM
The group leaves the city building, somewhat dejected but much more informed.
They make their way back to Mistress Marta's or wherever else the group wants to go. There are plenty of places to go in the evening. Perhaps a concert recital or a play? Would the group like to find a fine pub and a night of drinks?
Regardless, the night is their own and also uneventful as the twin moons are still up and showing, but it is clear, the dual full moons are waning and soon, there will only be one moon at night, until the entire circle repeats itself.
The next morning comes with a cloudy sky over Hook City, which means, it is likely nasty, outside the gates and at the very least, it will prove to be cold.
The gate is opened and those wishing to leave are allowed and they are met with a twenty mile an hour gust of gold, frigid wind hits you in the face, reminding you all, that Hook City is magically protected from the intelligent track of land called the Sargrass Plains.
At this time, feel free to inform me of what group members would like to do that evening before you leave the city or how you want to proceed, now that you are in Mudtown.
Zeoll (HP35, AC18) d20+19=31 ; d20+19=25 ; d20+19=39 ; d20+21=24 ; d20+21=23 ; d20+21=40 ; d20+19=35 ; Wednesday January 26th, 2011 6:49:10 PM
Zeoll tells his new friends he is going out to see what news he can gather. If anyone wants to come along (and make Aid Another checks), that would be fine.
Zeoll spends his night checking his Hook City sources, meager though they are at this point in his career, looking for news about people going missing, cults, and any other Mudtown news.
First, he pays a visit to Harls the Cooper and his family. He asks after Tallie, the daughter rescued from Gary Glittertooth. And of course, he carefully asks them about any news they might have had from their friends and relatives in Mudtown, about any kidnappings or cult activities, or about Heather. He explains that he is trying to make sure no one else is abducted.
Then he swings by the party tower, to see if it looks okay from the outside. He will not enter tonight. He does stand outside a window and sings a song for the girls, the one he sang for them before that they liked. Perform (rolled last, sorry) 35.
Then, he visits Twice. Does the fellow prefer his given name, by the way, or his "nom de mud"? Anyway, Zeoll is friendly, spends some time sociably, and discreetly pumps him for information, hopefully with such skill that the fellow never knows he was being interrogated. What Zeoll is looking for is any info or rumors about Heather and her family, about who she has aligned with, about people going missing in Mudtown.
At last he stops in at Mistress Marta's common rooms, though they are anything but common, of course. Still, the people he has befriended there may have heard something, maybe from Twice, maybe from somewhere else, about the topics Zeoll is investigating.
Diplomacy checks made to Gather Information, made while under the influence of a Heroism spell, which he will cast as needed, up to twice ... 31, 25, 39
Also, he discreetly casts an Elf Vision spell on himself before entering the Home of Mistress Marta. The Woldian spell, a gift of the Fey King, Zeoll recalls, lets him detect secret doors in passing, which is to say, very discreetly. Not that Zeoll would open any such door, but it is good to know. Perception Checks: 24, 23, 40.
Finally, in the privacy of his own room at Mistress Marta's, Zeoll will cast a Detect Secret Doors spell and concentrate on it.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 d20+16=33 ; Wednesday January 26th, 2011 8:01:45 PM
Beriothian wanders the streets, taking in the energy of the city as the sun starts to sink behind the walls. He finds himself in an area with several theaters and dance halls. He asks around to find out about prices and what events are currently going on, though he is not sure whether he can afford to attend any of the attractions at this time. Upon returning home Beri will spend a short time finishing up his tent before bed. craft (leather) d20+16=33 => tent complete
OOC: How does nightlife work in Hook City? Would we need to have chits on hand to do anything?
DM Buzz: That is a good question. One that deserves a good answer. Let me come up with a few things for the next time you all have down time to really enjoy the city, like I plan.
I already ushered you all out of the city, so let us finish this scene up and your characters can rest.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 14/12/12 HP:35 (Spells) Wednesday January 26th, 2011 8:25:18 PM
Restlin spends the evening following his new companions around (as permitted) trying to get a grip on what's going on. He does retire early, however, and spend the night restoring the talisman.
ooc: I rolled for this earlier - 19 craft jewelry.
The next morning, he'll seek out the rest of the group to head for the day's events. He's intentionally hanging back and observing until he feels he knows enough to provide any insight into their current activities.
DM Buzz: Yes my friend. You discovered that it is possibly a map. I am sorry I didn't specifically point that out at the time. :)
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 Wednesday January 26th, 2011 10:05:44 PM
Beriothian wakes up in very high spirits the next morning. The previous day's adventure into the red tape forest may have been a little disappointing, but his day started and ended with a hot meal, and nobodies life was in danger. The elf leaves his room and heads towards the dining room where another beautiful table has been set. He pours himself a cup of coffee and eats a small plate a fruit while he waits for the others to awake. Eventually the group awakes, and not long after they are outside the city gates. I forgot just how cold it gets out here! Zeoll, I know you were poking around yesterday. I am sure everybody would have been talking had there been another kidnapping, did you hear anything? If not I suggest we head straight to the priestess, no sense delaying our trip to the one person we think can help us.
Beltrin (Keith) AC: 15/14/11 HP: 47/47 Spells d20+2=6 ; d20+2=20 ; d20+2=20 ; Thursday January 27th, 2011 2:03:57 AM
Beltrin accompanies Zeoll around town, listening to as many stories as he wishes to tell about the history of the Iron Adventurers. He is very interested in hearing about the tower and the recovery of Twice. He helps as he can in the questioning, but the well-spoken taur needs little assistance.
ooc: Aid another rolls for Diplomacy checks: 6, 20, 20
He stays out a bit after dinner, roaming the streets and remembering the joys of the city. Rising with the rest of the group, he enjoys his breakfast and prepares to venture forth into Mudtown again. The icy blast of wind reminds him of his desire to win a permanent place in Hook City, the world can be a cold, hard place outside of its walls.
Zeoll (HP35, AC18) Thursday January 27th, 2011 7:09:49 AM
Note: Zeoll is just looking for info. I really do not mean to do anything to keep us from our morning at the chill Mudtown gate out of Hook City.
Kyan(Jon) AC:19/13/16 HP: 48/48 Thursday January 27th, 2011 8:09:00 AM
Kyan follows the others about the city, though takes little interest in its offerings. He had grew up in the city as a member of its working poor that maintained the splendor and was perhaps just a bit jaded with some of its higher forms of entertainment. When they return to the Mistress' home, he once again dismisses his cat to the alleys to hunt rodents and play at being king of the alley cats for the night before heading inside for an early evening.
In the morning, he heads out of the gates with the others fully armed and ready, but with his haversack of belongs secured to his back as well.
He nods towards Beri's suggestion of their first stop and lets out a grunt of approval before looking towards the others.
Bosk (James) AC: 20/12/19 HP 52 of 52 Spells Thursday January 27th, 2011 10:23:18 AM
Bosk heads out with the others as they look around Hook City, dropping by Magistar Alistair's and the Star Mages Guild to speak to Grendel in hopes of tracking down a Troubador of Temple dedicated to the Flower. He then venture with the others into the veritable wasteland that is Mudtown. As he lacks much in the way of diplomacy, due in no small part to his large stature and numerous weapons strapped to his back, he decides it best to keep with Beri rather than acting as a third wheel to Zeoll and Beltrin.
Stepping out through the gates, the cold air stings his face despite his warm clothing. Pulling his cloak around tighter, he makes sure his belongings are well secure before continuing down the street. The minotaur thinks for a while. If the people being kidnapped were being collected during a certain phase of the moon and we believe it to be related to an occult, perhaps they are needed for some ceremony that takes place either this cycle or they are preparing for one in the near future. He decides to mention this idea to everyone when they rejoin that evening.
The cleric spends the rest of the evening talking with Beri and any others who are at the shop with him. He asks Sanji how business has been going and how working with Jeb went. He also inquires as to how Hemust and Jilian's wedding plans are going. The last he heard they had put them on hold when Grendel, Priestess of the Flower who was going to marry them, left our party. The rest of the night is spent on more mundane tasks, assisting Sanji in the shops upkeep and watching Berin work on his tent, which he offers to store for the rogue in his Bag of Holding. After that he spends some time maintaining his weapons and armor as he tells the shop workers of their time in Mud Town.
Early the next morning the cleric spends some time in prayer to Gargul and then helps Sanji with the breakfast.
Ooc: Is Jeb Maker still here, or did he leave when he found his friend? Also, did anyone want a everburning torch or wondrous item worked on? If so I will also work on it. I can cast Rose's Temperature Control twice, providing a heat source for anyone doing their own crafting.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 14/12/12 HP:35 (Spells) d20+7=20 ; Thursday January 27th, 2011 11:10:30 AM
When the group gathers together the next morning, Restlin has the newly restored talisman to show them.
It appears to be a map of some kind, though I'm not certain of what. It's missing a few gems here and there, but I can't be certain what kind they were, or if that was even important. Still, it's easier to read than it was before.
Roll knowledge, geography for any insight on what this may be a map of: 20.
Morning chill/DM Buzz d100=58 ; Thursday January 27th, 2011 1:42:17 PM
A visit to Harls the Cooper finds Harls answering the door. The smells of dinner cooking is inviting as is the family. Tallie and her mother were cooking when the come out to greet you all and invites you to dinner, although it is clear, they have not prepared for company, especially for the appetite of taurs. The new party members are introduced and some berry mead is served, chilled with a bit of ice. The family business is well and Harls has no intentions of venturing out of Hook City any more. "It's just too dangerous out there. Most people are not proper to begin with, but when kidnaping's occur, it's time to cut the cord." When asked about Heather Brodery, there is no recollection of the name.
So the group leaves the family to the dinner and moves off to other locations and the next stop is the tower. Compared to the other residences in the neighborhood, it is stark and lifeless, where people have grass well groomed and bushes with flowers covering their walls, the Iron Adventurers have not had the time or opportunity to return this dwelling to what might have been a vibrant and beautiful lawn and garden is wilting bushes, barely kept alive by the magic of the city. A song is sung for the spirit of children and soon, they are on the road again.
While wandering through the streets, there seems to be a wide variety of culture available for the people of the night. Theaters offer ticket packets of two seats for one White Chit at the smaller theaters with much more extravagance in the larger, more prominent parts of Hook City. Of course, you always get what you pay for.
Art museums have open houses where you can see magical sculptures, created with illusions or transmutations.
Street shows have gnomes doing acrobatics and dwarves eating fire, without singing a hair on their head or face. It seems pretty easy to lighten ones mood after the red tape that was experienced earlier and it appears like a pretty common occurrence for people to be throwing White and sometimes Red Chits to these artists.
Stopping by Magistar Alistair's residence finds a servant answering the door. He informs the group that The Master of the house is not available, but a message may be left. The Star Mages guild is also a quick stop to see Grendel, although, it does not help much either, "A Northern Continent follower of love in the Southern Continent? Pretty rare indeed, are people like yourselves, let alone someone that encourages peace and love. Of course, there are ways and ways and most of them cost quite a bit. Let me know if you need options." He reminds the group, "Chits are spells. Just go down to the Exchange at the gate and buy yourself a spell."
Back toward Labor Town and up Mistress Martas drive, one has to be careful of the many beautiful carriages of different sizes that come and go from the estate. Indeed, the night is alive at her house and many different types of entertainment is available there as well, some of these girls moving on to play in big theaters throughout the city.
Twice is there and enjoying peoples company. He was asked by his mother to stay home for a week. He likely has to, in order to collect an allowance to go blow somewhere. He greets you all with a slight nod. He appears somewhat put out by being dragged home by the group, but he is not impolite. After a bit though, he warms up and can answer some questions. "Peoples always missing in Mudtown. Carved up and taken into the plains for carrion or captured and taken home as a slave. It's not a place for someone without a sharp blade or lots of friends, with sharp blades. As for that she dog, I heard her talking with some man about a meeting he wanted her to have with someone else. Apparently, the one eyed old bat wasn't moving bodies fast enough for his liking. She told him something about wanting his formulae, blah, blah, blah. I don't remember all of it really." He opens his throat and swallows an entire glass of wine before getting up off the pillows on the rug and excusing himself, "Veronica just winked at me. That means she is in her off time. Gotta run chaps. Thanks again." He turns around and dashes off. Nothing else can be found on the subject of Mudtown. It really is something not spoke of often and the merchandise that is brought in, is always from the destination of the merchants that carried it. Nothing ever comes from Mudtown.
Highlight to display spoiler: { Perception checks to find secret doors will be sent through email.}
And again, the group is at the gates, when there is a decision to be made. To the store or the Brodery's warehouse?
As for a steel trinket of a labyrinth, no geography comes to mind on where it might be.
James, I think you misunderstood. The group stayed in Hook City last night and it is now morning, outside Hook City.
Bosk (James) AC: 20/12/19 HP 52 of 52 Spells Thursday January 27th, 2011 1:54:44 PM
ooc: Sorry. When Beri asked about nightlife you said ... Let me come up with a few things for the next time you all have down time to really enjoy the city, like I plan.
I already ushered you all out of the city, so I assumed we left before nightfall.
DM Buzz: I understand. My mistake. :)
Bosk (James) AC: 20/12/19 HP 52 of 52 Spells Thursday January 27th, 2011 4:28:36 PM
Mine too.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 Thursday January 27th, 2011 7:23:39 PM Lets head to the Brodery's, no sense putting it off.
Beltrin (Keith) AC: 15/14/11 HP: 47/47 Spells Thursday January 27th, 2011 9:17:02 PM I agree, let's get to the meat of the day's work first.
Bosk (James) AC: 20/12/19 HP 52 of 52 Spells Friday January 28th, 2011 10:42:01 AM
After eating his fill, which for a taur is alot, Bosk prepares to head to the Brodery family with the others. It sounds like our plan is to visit Heather, The Healer, and to start up a conversation with her. Do we want to make any special plans or preparations? We asked them point blank about the disappearances last time, but we didn't learn much, and I don't want to put them too on guard right away or start an unnecessary fight. I would like to start by taking Heather up on her offer about learning more about The Edge. She said if I felt worthy she could help me find it someday, and I am truly interested in taking her up on her offer. Although she laughed at the gods, I believe there is a connection between her and Gargul. Her communication with the spirits and the dead is similar to abilities used by Gargul's followers. Gargul seeks to maintain balance in the Wold and so does she. To top things off she is missing an eye and wears an eye around her neck, and one of the sacrifices to Gargul is often an eye in addition to an eye being a holy symbol.
It could be she is part of a sacred sect with a unique knowledge and understanding of the Wold and the balance which must be maintained, in which case it would be a rare honor to learn such things. On the other hand, it could be a sect that has strayed far from the ways of Gargul and has become something truly evil and needs to be dealt with. Either way, I need to learn more about The Edge. Perhaps this will give us the information we need to know, or will put them at ease enough to let their guard down.
Zeoll (HP35, AC18) Friday January 28th, 2011 11:13:20 AM
"I want a chance to talk with Jimbim when Heatherr is not therre. He seemed to me to be maybe morre willing to talk, and also maybe not as on boarrd with the kidnapping thing."
Bosk (James) AC: 20/12/19 HP 52 of 52 Spells Friday January 28th, 2011 12:40:20 PM Perhaps we could get them to split up. Maybe I could get Heather to talk privately with me about The Edge, if we're lucky bringing Clarissa with her for protection. Then I could learn more about her "religion" while you speak to JimBim.
Zeoll (HP35, AC18) 2d4=7 ; 2d4=5 ; Friday January 28th, 2011 2:19:16 PM
Dear sweet kindly DM Buzz! Is there any chance I can do one more bit of "last nite" business? I meant to, and then I forgot.
Zeoll looks around Mistress Marta's always-well-provisioned table. Does she have any freshly picked berries? Maybe Cook has a small handful she could spare? If so, Zeoll would love to cast the Goodberries spell he prepared this morning. That would create 7 goodberries that should last until the next evening. Then, at breakfast, he'll cast it again, creating another 5 goodberries, lasting until the next morning.
Kyan(Jon) AC:19/13/16 HP: 48/48 Saturday January 29th, 2011 8:46:20 AM
With a thoughtful sounding grunt, as though an idea just came to him, Kyan looks at the older members of the group and then to the two other new recruits.
"Perhaps it would be a good idea if I stayed out of the Healer's for now and simply watched for a time. They'll not recognize me as one of yours and hopefully whoever is behind the kidnapping won't either. If I'm able to watch for a while I could see if anyone strange often comes empty handed, but leaves in the company of another... or, maybe we'll get lucky and someone will make a quick exit when you go in this morning to ask more questions."
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 14/12/12 HP:35 (Spells) Saturday January 29th, 2011 10:04:30 AM
Restlin turns to Kyan to speak.
"That could work, but you could also wind up getting everyone else in hot water if you're found out. From what everyone else has said about this group, the healer seems very straight forward, even if she's not telling us everything.
"Still, that doesn't make it a bad idea. Are you sure you could remain hidden? No offense or anything, but we still don't really know what each other's capable of."
Restlin's mage armor is good for 5 hours. He'll want it cast on himself about an hour before the meeting, just in case.
Kyan(Jon) AC:19/13/16 HP: 48/48 Saturday January 29th, 2011 11:36:45 AM
Kyan nots to Reslin before giving his response. "She has been involved with the the kidnappers though.. and they have been here. I do not think I need to remain hidden as much as not attract attention, though I can remain unseen when I need to well enough, but Mud City is busy enough that with luck I could remain unnoticed for a few hours without resorting to that... and, perhaps you or Beltrin could stay away as well and we could watch in turns so that it is not always the same person hanging around on the street to attract attentiion."
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 Saturday January 29th, 2011 12:14:44 PM I would strongly advise against splitting up our group, Heather and her family are a very paranoid lot. They likely will have somebody keeping guard, making it hard for you to do much outside. From their behavior last time I am sure it will be very obvious they are expecting someone. In fact, they didn't mind telling us up front that they were on guard that night because they were meeting with an reputable person.
One more thing that I'm not sure I mentioned, but it may not be possible to hide things from Heather. When we were talking last time she looked at me... there was something about that. Her gaze bore deep into my soul, I could almost feel it touching my very spirit. She knew what I was thinking, though she had the context wrong. After hearing of those she was taking care of upstairs I was wondering whether she had Twice in a bed upstairs. I had thought he might have succumb to the temptation of the local street drugs, and she knew! She knew I wondering if I had him up there... of course, she had jumped to the assumption I though she was the kidnapper, but the point remains that she knew what I was thinking. If we have someone spying outside she may learn of this the moment we enter the room, and we can't risk putting possible friends on the offensive, especially paranoid friends that we need information from.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/17/17 HP:41/41 Saturday January 29th, 2011 12:25:27 PM
ooc: BTW, the above was a spoiler for me only back when we were first talking with the priestess, but I didn't want to share this while we were in front of her.
Zeoll (HP35, AC18) Saturday January 29th, 2011 1:08:33 PM
"I say go strraight with herr. Just because herr spirrit allies may be watching. But it was a rreal good idea Kyan -- keep 'em coming!"
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 14/12/12 HP:35 (Spells) Sunday January 30th, 2011 8:22:49 AM "Guess that settles that. Let's be off then, shall we? I'm eager to get to an actual adventure."
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