Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Thursday June 5th, 2014 11:33:12 PM "Kyan! You're supposed to be dead from those exploding acid children!" Beri shudders for a second as he remembers the scene, though this was one of the events that to the best of his knowledge were not public knowledge.
Barkeep, would you be willing to open a tab for us? The chits may be causing confusion today, but the trade of the Wold has not collapsed. We will be happy to be billed in the inferior 'coin value' and pay you in the more honorable payment system of Hook City in a few days when the treasury has cleared things up. Or we could offer you the coins now if preferred, if you would rather allow such primitive payments and do the conversion on behalf of your patrons later. We work on both sides of these noble walls so we are accustomed to most payment methods.
Kyan? Cold it be you? Surely our eyes deceive us! Why did you not return to the tower if the powers of the Wold saw fit to restore you to us?
Count your Chits, gentlemen, One, err.. One, uhm... One...(co-DM JonathanT) Thursday June 5th, 2014 11:51:23 PM
DM JT OOC: I got a kick out of "Kyan! You're supposed to be dead from those exploding acid hildren!" It reminded me that I was there in my short stint in Hook as Alexi. Restlin would remember killing everyone but Alexi. I do remember those exploding children. I laugh now but it wasn't funny then. :}
Kyan, having lived in Hook for some time, and lived to tell about it, is not moved by the loss of the chits and rubs it in a little.
If the men in the tavern were going to tar and feather him, it was either the weapons and armor about him or Restlin's sudden burst of recognition. The men may not know who the Iron Adventurers are, but they know when they are outnumbered, weapon-wise.
Then Anrete has the audacity to order some mead!
The barkeep stares at Anrete with incredulity and his jaw drops when a short hafling ambles up wanting one too!
"Mead! I got mead, you got Chits? The real kind, not these counterfeits?" and he tosses a chit onto the countertop. The small clear, glassy disk hits the countertop and chatters. "That one was a red chit only moments ago!"
Restin continues his conversation with the stranger that looks like the dead-back-to-life Kyan. "Kyan! You're supposed to be dead from those exploding acid children! Bosk! Beri! Look, he's alive! Oh brother, you picked a heck of a time to come back." His sense of unbelief is short and he starts introducing Kyan to the newer members of the IA.
Bosk is not so sure this is the real Kyan. There are some oddities that he notices in the man's dress, but goes along with the perceived long lost friend and greets him and chids him for not letting them know he had survived after all.
Katinka remains quiet and watches the crowd. They are still angry but confusion gives them pause. To add to that, the noise of rumbling in the street becomes noticeble to all.
Sesha barges in angry as heck and the men waste no time to get out of her way.
Beri shows more tact than Anrete and if it wasn't for the general state of confusion and the noise outside, he'd have a tougher time getting something to drink. But the barkeep just throws up his hands in desperation and blurts "Drink your fill! I don't care how you pay! I'll take chickens if that's all you got!" and rushes to the door to see what's going on.
"They are marching to the Treasury! It must be city wide! Heavens have mercy on us!" and then rushes out.
The others in the tavern scramble across the room and pile out of the tavern as well.
The IA are now alone in a tavern with an invitation to an open tap. Do they stay and drink 'till they drop and catch up on Kyan's after-nearly-death-adventures or go see what's up also?
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 d20+14=32 ; Friday June 6th, 2014 7:49:08 AM
Restlin doesn't even mull it over. In a surprisingly fluid movement (acrobatics: 32), the wizard vaults over the bar & starts looking for the biggest tankard he can find for Anrete. After a whole day of diplomacy, the poor guy needs a drink. Once filled, he plops it down on the bar and shoves it in his direction. He'll then fill the rest of the party's orders, including a porter for himself, before settling down to trade stories.
He takes a moment to pull out his platinum holy symbol, kiss it, and grin skyward. As far as he's concerned, this is far too lucky a situation not to take advantage of.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility Friday June 6th, 2014 9:08:39 AM
Tink watches the mob, and then looks to the party "Uh, are we going to follow them?"
It looks like Restlin has other ideas though. Seeing him taking liberties with the bar's stocks, she looks at him carefully before adding "You do intend to pay for that, right?"
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Friday June 6th, 2014 10:17:19 AM
"Restlin! Bosk! Beri! it is good to see you.. And yes, I'm both real and alive." he gives any that take it a frm forearm grip handshake. "It is something of a long story.. But I was only mostly dead for te exploding acid child bombs. the sewer took me, a witch found me and healed me. I've been working for him dice then to pay off the debt. debts paid and so I am back. just got into the city. "
he moves over towards the bar while Restlin starts filling orders. "take a mead like Anrete here.." And he is sure to leave a stack of coins on te bar to pay for tehe drinks. "But should make it quick.. That mob does look like something the City watch might appreciate some assistance with. might not even throw us in jail this time."
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 Friday June 6th, 2014 11:46:57 AM
Restlin waves Tink's question away. "Yes, yes. I'm an opportunist, not a thief. That situation out there isn't going away anytime soon. Have a drink, relax a bit, then we'll see what needs to be done."
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Friday June 6th, 2014 5:56:33 PM
The Horned Cleric quickly welcomes his friend back, the gathering mob outside keeping him from enjoying what should be a joyous reunion. It is so good to see you again, but I agree with Tink. I think we should be doing something to help the city. Restlin, do you think you can make another of those large images in the air? Maybe the words the words Remain Calm followed by the Iron Adventurer's Shield or something along that line?
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 Friday June 6th, 2014 8:58:40 PM
Restlin pauses mid-sentence. He places down his tankard before turning to Kyan & asking him to hold his beer.
He walks outside, pulls out his silent image wand, and paints the following message in the sky:
"Don't panic! Everything's going to be ok!" He puts their shield beneath it.
Then he goes back to his beer and the rest of Kyan's story.
Anrete AC:31/18/31 CMD:32 HP:86/134 DR:2 Friday June 6th, 2014 10:24:00 PM
Anrete proceeds to down his mead in great gulps before looking for a barrel to refill his tankard.
"So what ish this Kyan-thing?"
Sesha [AC 26 /15 Touch/23 Flat] | HP 138/84+22 | CMD 19][See Invisibility] Saturday June 7th, 2014 2:47:59 AM
Sesha watches Restlins display with at least a hint of amusement. She finds a way to box up her current mood and set it aside. Sesha, Bloodwitch of the Ga'alin was set aside for now. Sesha, maiden of Serenbeth was needed.
She walks near Restlin and innocently peeks around the mage to glipse this Kyan fellow. She would need to get a measure of him if he sought to re-join the IA.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility Saturday June 7th, 2014 4:00:28 AM
Tink is relieved to see the group place some coins on the bar counter. The chits may be down, but the law remains.
When she sees Restlin reach for his wand, for politely places her hand on his arm "I have the spell prepared. If you will allow me, it will save you from expending a charge from your wand"
If given the nod, Tink will cast the Silent Image spell described by Restlin. (Tink's version will be 50ft high by 30ft wide)
"I also have a Wall of Force spell prepared, should we need to stop any rioting from reaching the treasury. To be honest, I think I would feel better following the crowd - at least until we can be sure the city guard have things under control."
She gives this 'Kyan' person a look up and down, and whether or nor anyone agrees with her she heads outside to follow the crowd.
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Saturday June 7th, 2014 3:37:04 PM
ooc: I just wanted to note that the Iron Shield was designed at the request of Garret Goodbarrel (Jeff O) and is a relatively new addition to this game. I believe he payed for its creation back in February, and since this is one of the first times we have used it in game add just switched DMs I wanted to make sure he got credit for it.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Saturday June 7th, 2014 6:21:06 PM
Garret hops up on the bar and takes a seat, crossing his feet in front of him and grabs a tankard to join in the fun and waits for the bartender to come back from the mob scene. He does not know this new member, but he knows when the ale is flowing.
OOC: Thanks, yeah I wanted to surprise the Iron Adventurers with an emblem we could all use. It was to be made of precious metal, but also be durable. It was a small token, so people could slap it on their armor, or wear it on a cloak or other clothes -- just some way for people to recognize the IA.
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Saturday June 7th, 2014 8:21:17 PM
ooc: oops. Did I ruin the surprise? Sorry. Really, really sorry! It came up so long ago I assumed they were handed out. Did I say sorry yet?
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Monday June 9th, 2014 4:34:43 PM
Kyan looks to Anrete and raises his mug, " I am a Kyan. If the rest of the IA count you new faces as frieds than so do I. I am Kyan Del'muth, one the original signers of that mound of bureaucratic slop they made us go throw to get the Iron Adventurers officially recognized by the city. glad to meet you ".
he chugs down his mead, sets his mug on the bar, wipes his mouth I the back of his sleeve and then moves to head out into the street to have a looksie.
Count your Chits, gentlemen, One, err.. One, uhm... One...(co-DM JonathanT) Monday June 9th, 2014 4:41:20 PM
With the murmuring of the crowd outside growing louder, the IA take a moment to get reaquainted with their companion from the past, Kyan.
Restlin expertly, like he'd done it many times before, vaults over the bar and gets the biggest tankard he can find for Anrete and fills it so full that when he plops it in front of the barbarian some froth sloshes out. He then gets a drink for everyone else.
Katinka, watches the mob and then asks "Uh, are we going to follow them?", but then gets distracted by Restlin's bartending. Looking at him carefully she adds "You do intend to pay for that, right?"
Restlin winks at Tink and assures her they'll pay for the drinks and that the mob isn't going away anytime soon, so sit back, have a drink, and relax.
Kyan takes his drink, places a stack of coins on the table, and proves that he really is alive, then gives the short version of how he lived after the exploding children down in the sewers of Hook City. He also expresses some concern for the mob outside, in that the city guards may have more on their hands than they can handle.
Bosk comes to grip with the fact that this is the same Kyan he knew from a year or so ago and welcomes him back. He is also concerned with the mob outside and suggests Restlin put a message up in the air to help calm the crowd.
Restlin starts to the door but Katinka interrupts him. She has a spell that will do the task and save a charge from the wand.
A message appears above the rooftops: Don't panic! Everything's going to be ok! with the Iron Adventurer's emblem beneath it. It stays floating in the air for however long Katinka concentrates on it, then dissipates as soon as she goes back into the tavern.
DM JT Note: keeping with Garret's intent of introducing the shield later, I picture the current Iron Adventures' emblem being a picture of their Tower.
Sesha is slightly amused by Restlin's athletic display and puts away her Bloodwitch of the Ga'alin persona and puts on her maiden of Serenbeth persona. Staying near Restlin, she innocently peeks around the mage to glipse this Kyan fellow and get a measure of him.
Anrete, tankard half empty already, is less tactful than Sesha and blurts out "So what ish this Kyan-thing?"
Katinka can not tell wether the words of encouragement in the floating image did any good. If it did calm some, good, but for the majority of the mob, they seem unaffected and continue their shouts of anger or despair. The crowd now is overflowing to the side streets and alleys and the noise cannot be ignored, even in the tavern.
Those already aquainted with Kyan hear his story of survival from being blown up by some mysterious exploding children, a story that the old timers can tell the others later. Right now the crowd in the streets has reached right outside the tavern.
Then the tavern door burst open and a middle-aged man burst in exclaiming "All is lost! There's no hope! My family...all that hard work...!" while drawing a dagger. He then plunges the dagger into this chest and keels over!
Sesha [AC 26 /15 Touch/23 Flat] | HP 138/84+22 | CMD 19][See Invisibility] Monday June 9th, 2014 5:44:06 PM
Sesha's attention is briefly captured by a man who runs into the bar and stabs himself. While that was maybe more interesting than Kyan, who apparently still considered himself part of the IA after a long disappearance, the sheer stupidity of the moment was enough to distract her from the current situation in the bar.
"Idiot."
She walks over and kicks his dagger to Restlin.
"Are all the people in Hook City so dramatic?"
She kneels down and places a small ebony hand on the mans cheek, caressed it lightly, then slapped him across the face.
"Wake up!
[1] Move Action: Walk over and kneel by dead man. [2] Save/Slay: Return a creature to life that has died within 1d4 rounds. It comes to 0 hit points. You can do this unlimited times, but only once per creature per day.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Monday June 9th, 2014 9:16:41 PM
Garret takes a drink and looks around at the assembled adventurers. He ponders how he is going to pay for the emblems he ordered, and if that smith will even be around after all this chaos with the chits. It was a good quality smith and a man who seemed quite centered, so Garret thought he would make it through this.
In the meantime he looked around at the others and says, "Well, we set out to save the city, but it looks like we just created more chaos. I don't mean to suggest we hide from the city, but with the mobs starting to wander, even we could be outnumbered. I might suggest we head back towards our tower, so at least if the city guards have something we can help with, they'll know where to find us."
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Monday June 9th, 2014 9:38:54 PM
Beri ponders the fallen man's actions. This man worries about his family and kills himself? This is not normal behavior, even the wildest animal would either defend it's mate and offspring, or at the very least... Beri decides it's best not to mention that rabbits and the like would instead kill their offspring to spare them a slow death from starvation, just in case some panicked patrons also think that would be a rational move. It's odd that he came in here to do that... you don't think he was involved in the chit fiasco do you?
ooc: back from vacation, should have an easier time posting bow
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 Monday June 9th, 2014 10:06:44 PM
Restlin sighs as this dramatic idiot's entrance ruins the good mood. "Ok, time to go earn our chi...well, time to earn our pay." Once Sesha is done, he'll head outside to see what can be done.
Ooc: I'm on vacation in California. Posting will be minimal, but reliable.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility Tuesday June 10th, 2014 6:33:11 AM
The crowd are now right outside the tavern. There is no way Tink can stop them all on her own now. She heads back inside and is taken aback. Where'd that dead body come from? Why did Sesha just hit him? Did Tink just miss a fight, or worse, an assassin?
She hovers there looking perplexed.
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later d20+3=20 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2014 9:37:40 AM
Kyan moves to stop the man when he spots the dagger, but is too far away and too slow to do anything. when Sesha steps up and handles the situation, Kyan nods to her and moves next to the man to see if the wound needs further tending and will do so if required. (Heal check: 20)
to Sesha he says, "In general, yes. many in Hook City aren't used to real hardship and don't know how to deal with it."
Anrete AC:31/18/31 CMD:32 HP:86/134 DR:2 Tuesday June 10th, 2014 10:10:02 AM
Anrete frowns as he stares at the man, watching for signs of life.
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 d20+22=33 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2014 7:53:22 PM
Beri looks over the man that just stabbed himself, looking for any signs that he might have been a part of the plot that just unfolded but is careful not to touch the person so the healers can do their work, and to make sure nobody in this panicked town thinks he's looting the corpse.
perception=33
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Tuesday June 10th, 2014 9:21:38 PM
Garret watches the dead man with some interest, but some distance. He takes a drink of the ale while he watches the healers at work.
Count your Chits, gentlemen, One, err.. One, uhm... One...(co-DM JonathanT) Tuesday June 10th, 2014 9:28:02 PM
DM JT Note: For the most part, I treat NPCs/Monsters going below 0hp like PCs. Usually, though, going below 0hps means death since most monsters and NPC foes don't usually get someone to heal them to bring them back up to above 0hp, and I don't take the time to roll their stabilizing chance because, well... what for unless it's an important NPC.
In this case, since you reach the man in the same round he stabbed himself, any healing spell would at least stabilize him. In other words, the rules to bring back a PC to above 0hp are the same here.
I don't know if something has to really truly dead for Save/Slay to work or if it will work even if it is only mostly nearly dead. In this case, there's enough healers around that it wouldn't be an issue.
Just thought I'd throw that out there for future reference.
Count your Chits, gentlemen, One, err.. One, uhm... One...(co-DM JonathanT) Tuesday June 10th, 2014 11:19:18 PM
DM JT: I started a post but some of the after effects of the anesthesia from my colonoscopy this morning are kicking in and I feel kinda blaaah. I'm off tomorrow so I'll try to have a post up in the morning.
Sorry. :(
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility Wednesday June 11th, 2014 12:10:33 AM OOC: No worries, JT! :)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Wednesday June 11th, 2014 9:06:37 AM
OOC: Get well soon!
Anrete AC:31/18/31 CMD:32 HP:86/134 DR:2 Wednesday June 11th, 2014 9:43:28 AM
ooc: Rest well. No pressure. Anrete is a slacker.
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Wednesday June 11th, 2014 12:05:17 PM
OOC: no worries. anesthesia isn't always all that fun
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Wednesday June 11th, 2014 3:06:41 PM
ooc: No problem. My midterms and wedding anniversary caused me not to even notice. In fact, I missed the last line about the guy stabbing himself. I thought he was just complaining.
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells d20+8=23 ; d20=9 ; Wednesday June 11th, 2014 3:08:15 PM
The horned cleric charges forward, using his immense reach to try to stop the man. Stop. There is hope! Reflex Save = 23
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 Wednesday June 11th, 2014 5:41:26 PM
Ooc: Good, didn't miss anything. Next time I go on vacation, I'm getting a sub.
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Wednesday June 11th, 2014 6:42:38 PM
ooc: Bosk, didn't the man already stab himself? I think all you can do is prevent him from re-stabbing himself if he is stabalized
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Wednesday June 11th, 2014 8:16:15 PM
ooc: I have to try. It is not in Bosk's character to do nothing.
Count your Chits, gentlemen, One, err.. One, uhm... One...(co-DM JonathanT) Wednesday June 11th, 2014 8:21:11 PM
DM JT OOC: ok, I think I survived. I felt fine all afternoon yesterday and then, I had supper, and then the last bit of anesthesia wore off, and then I got gassy and kept having to visit the lu almost as much as the prep time the night before! Hopefully it will be 10 years before I have to go through this again. Technically, it was not all that bad except the stuff I had to drink started to make me gag and nearly throw up.
For those who've had a colonoscopy, you know what I'm talking about. For those who've not had one, don't rush it unless you have to. LOL.
Post coming soon.
A storm brews, will it be a doozy or a dud?(Co-DM JonathanT) Wednesday June 11th, 2014 9:58:08 PM
DM JT: Where we left off... The IA are sitting at the bar with Restlin tending, discussing current events, when a middle aged man comes stumbling into the tavern in dispair and stabs himself in the chest, then falls forward spilling blood all over the floor interrupting Garret's comments.
Garret was saying that they probably ought to head back to the tower where the city guards could find them if the IA were needed when the man interrupts with his dramatic display of drama. In the back of his mind he wonders how to pay for the emblems he ordered, or even if the smith will stick around to do the job.
As the man hits the floor, Bosk rushes forward to try to stop him from committing Hara-kiri* but the distance from the bar to the entryway is too far to stop the man. Best Bosk can do is catch him before he gets a concussion from hitting his head on the hard floor.
Placing the man on the floor he knows he only has seconds to keep the man from dying. DM JT: he's at negative hit points.
Sesha stands ready to bring him back if he actually dies. "Idiot. Are all the people in Hook City so dramatic?"
DM JT: any Healing or First Aid DC15 will stabilize him. CLW or better will bring him out of -hps.
*Hara-Kiri_ Proper spelling for the Samurai ritual suicide. At least that's what the Internet says.
Beri does not seem very sympathetic towards the man. "This man worries about his family and kills himself?..." In a matter of self-interest, he looks over the man to see if he might have been involved with the Chit fiasco. Nothing about the man indicates anything of the sort. If anything, the man looks like a well-to-do merchant by his dress and jewelry. Beri is careful not to be seen as having part in the man's Hara-Kiri.
Tink, concentrating on her Silent Image, misses the man, gripping an ornate dagger, slip by her and enter the tavern. The crowd is just too much and starting to jostle the little halfling and she decides to go back inside where it is safer only to find Bosk, Sesha, Kyan, and Beri over a man with a dagger in his chest. Her first thoughts are that the man had tried to attack them! She hovers there looking perplexed.
Kyan quickly and expertly applies some First Aid on the man while explaining to Beri, "In general, yes. many in Hook City aren't used to real hardship and don't know how to deal with it."
The Other veteran IA members concur with this. Apart from jewelry and household art decorations, the well-to-do and upper class of Hook City don't touch the metals. Perhaps the 1%ers have enough art and jewelry to sell or trade to get by until something is worked out, the rest of Hook City that has solely relied on Chits for commerce are up the Chit creek without a paddle.
Anret merely frowns as he stares at the man, watching for signs of life. Kyan's administrations give the signs that the bloody mess on the floor was in vain, from the man's perspective at least.
Garret, his thoughts momentarily interrupted, watches with some interest but stays at the bar and casually takes a drink. The healers will do the job right, no point in dramatics on his part.
Restlin sighs as the mood is ruined. "Ok, time to go earn our chi...well, time to earn our pay." The mage heads to the door and opens it to step outside.
IF the crowds they had to deal with earlier in the day during the festivities was bad, it is worse now. At least then they were moving about, going somewhere. Now they are just packed in the street not going anywhere. The noise is loud but not all are shouting. Most are looking anxious, apprehensive, frustrated, and trying to talk to their neighbors in the crowd. Some are visibly agitated to the point of hysteria, either panicky hysteria or rage hysteria.
It will be tricky to get through the crowd but not impossible. It is a short distance to the main entrance to the treasury where most of the demonstration is testy, to say the least. It is a good ways to the Tower, but once past the few immediate crowded blocks, the way will probably be clear.
The man lies unconscious, having been stabilized. Do the IA leave him there for the tavern keeper to deal with or do they at least get him back to his feet (and take his dagger away maybe)? Do they go to the Treasury or to the Iron Tower?
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells d8+5=9 ; Wednesday June 11th, 2014 10:27:13 PM
Bosk immediately rushes to the man's aid as he places a hand on his wounds and the other on his holy symbol. His mouth begins reciting a prayer for the man as his voice falls into an ancient cadence. Lord of life, Lord of Death, show this man mercy that he may better live his life and tell Hook City of your greatness and spread word of your deeds. May he walk the Wold for many years before his time comes and he sees the rivulets of Wold's Blood and stands before you for his final judgement. He then casts a light cure spell on the man, bringing him back from the brink of death.
ooc: I need to double check what spells I have already cast. I think I will be converting hide from undead to CLW.
Sesha [AC 26 /15 Touch/23 Flat] | HP 138/84+22 | CMD 19][See Invisibility] Thursday June 12th, 2014 12:17:19 AM
Sesha shakes her head.
"Better to let those type die Bosk, at least when I'm around. Then they get about 10 seconds of being dead and realizing the mistake they made as they stare down whomever they worship before I yank em' back into the land of the living."
Outside with the others, Sesha puts off using a spell for flight. For now she will fight the throngs with everyone else.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility Thursday June 12th, 2014 12:27:44 AM "Why is there a dead man on the floor?" Tink bluntly asks, still having no idea what is going on
Anrete AC:31/18/31 CMD:32 HP:86/134 DR:2 Thursday June 12th, 2014 9:54:06 AM
Anrete grunts as he downs another mug of mead.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 d20+23=30 ; Thursday June 12th, 2014 10:07:24 AM
"Because he's an idiot," answers Restlin. The wizard should still have Overland Flight active, so he'll fly up and try to get a better view of what's going on at the treasury.
Perception: 30
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Thursday June 12th, 2014 2:09:56 PM
When the man comes to after Bosk's healing Kyan will come to his feet and gesture towards the knife Sesha had kicked away. "if you really want to die, your knife is over there, but do you really think your family will be better off without you in the times ahead?"
he doesn't bother eating for an answer before moving out into the street. he nods towards Restlin as the young wizards flies up and away to get a look while he stands his ground to await what Restlin sees.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Thursday June 12th, 2014 6:18:01 PM
Garret watches a few of the others head for the door. He takes one more look around the tavern and mumbles, "To think I missed this back in the days of Bryn Baraz and the wilderness."
He lifts up his mug and downs it quickly, slapping the mug on the counter. He nods to Anrete and heads for the door.
Once outside, he looks up to see the flying members of IA and waits for some direction to possibly avoid the worst of the traffic.
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Thursday June 12th, 2014 9:42:35 PM
Beri finishes off his ale and sets the glass down, then turns to the man on the floor. Your family depends on you, you need to show them how to be strong. Also, remember that wise men profit when fools panic. You're a merchant right? A clever man will open his eyes and take advantage of the situation, while the others close down in panic you can make a killing being one of the few people keeping their shop open if you are willing to be flexible.
Restlin, do you see anything?
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility d20+26=41 ; Thursday June 12th, 2014 10:34:23 PM "Um, ok" Tink still has no idea what has transpired within the tavern, but if the rest of the group are not concerned by it, then she shouldn't be either.
She accompanies Restlin, as the two take to the air. It seems a safer environment for a halfling - far less concern about being squashed by a rioting human.
Perception: 41
She scans the crowd quickly - have they reached a full-blown riot yet? Can she see signs of vandalism or looting? Are many of them armed?
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Thursday June 12th, 2014 11:19:41 PM
The cleric nods to Sesha, If I waited it would have taken more than a cure spell to save him. I am not dumb enough to try to bring a man back once he is in Gargul's presence...and if you even think of picking that knife back up I will hit you so hard your family will cry out in pain. I did not bring you back to make the same mistake twice.
A storm brews, will it be a doozy or a dud?(Co-DM JonathanT) Thursday June 12th, 2014 11:54:24 PM
Stabilized but unconscious, the man is brought back to consciousness when Bosk casts a healing spell. His prayer, elaborately spoken, should be written down in a prayer book.
Sesha, sadistically or not, expresses that for the man's benefit,it would have been best to let him die and see what it was like, if only for a few moments.
Katinka is still unsure as to what happened.
"Because he's an idiot," answers Restlin. The mage then heads outside and flies up high enough to see over the rooftops. Katinka follows.
Anrete grunts. Disgust? Amusement? Then downs another mug of ale.
Garret thinks back to those days out on the flat grassy plains around Bryn Baraz and how he used to long for 'civilization' when he eyes the mob he has to navigate through to get home.
As the man's eyes blink open and stares at his bloody hands and the hole in his clothes, Kyan tells him "if you really want to die, your knife is over there, but do you really think your family will be better off without you in the times ahead?"
The man, still a little bewildered, mumbles "Oh the shame... can't bear it..." and spots the dagger across the floor.
Beri interposes himself so the man stares directly into the druid's face. Beri gives words of encouragement and a logical means of how to cope, and maybe come out better off than before. The man just needs the initiative and hunger of the entrepreneur to find it.
The man blinks while staring at Beri. At last a sign of understanding crosses the man's face. Does he have what it takes to start all over again from nothing? Only time will tell, but at least for now, Beri has given the man some food for thought. He sits, knees curled up, head buried in his knees. "Oh gods! Have mercy on us!" he mumbles.
Bosk gives the man his version as to why the man should think twice about killing himself, again.
Meanwhile, several of the others have gone outside. Restlin and Katinka take to the air and reach high enough to see over the rooftops a commotion in front of the Treasury main entrance. A huge herculean automaton has stepped out and guards have started to push the crowd back and away from the doors.
Down on the ground, the other IA members catch smidgets of conversation. A word here and there over the other noise. Put together, it sounds like at least some people are aware of a Teucri artifact that created the chits and that it now must be broken. And who did it?
The crowd around the front of the Treasury starts to quieten down as it appears the Automaton is about to say something.
Finally, a Magic Mouth appears on the emblem of the Treasury on its chest. The Magic Mouth explains about the Chancer's Club trying to steal the Teucri Artifact that creates the Chits and that it now is broken and tries to calm the people by assuring them that the City will be working hard to come up with a solution and for all to be patient.
It's task done, the Automaton retreats back into the Treasury and the massive doors slam shut.
The crowds, whether appeased or not, slowly begin to disperse, leaving small clumps of people huddled and speaking in low tones.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 Friday June 13th, 2014 11:51:11 AM
Restlin figured a group of people who couldn't manage to not kill themselves at the first sign of trouble wouldn't make for much of a mob. The wizard floats back down to his companions. "Looks like there won't be much in the way of mob justice tonight, but we should probably patrol our square overnight. Surely the Iron Adventurers won't let currency issues absolve them of their duty to protect their charges, yes?"
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Friday June 13th, 2014 1:11:06 PM
"huh.. After that announcement anyone looking to make some coin should just hunt down a known member of this Chancer's Club to work as a body guard. they're gonna need it."
Kyan looks back towards the others as the crowd disperses. "So what have you guys been up to?"
Sesha [AC 26 /15 Touch/23 Flat] | HP 138/84+22 | CMD 19][See Invisibility] Friday June 13th, 2014 1:30:28 PM
Sesha frowns at that throught.
"I hope none of them do, as the Chancers have joined a very short list of people who are a part of my bedtime prayers. I'd hate to have to lay a citizen of Hook City low for standing between me and one of those Chancers."
This of course, causes Sesha to think again about vengeance. Bosk would be needed.
"Bosk, do we still have any piece of that woman, or did you turn all of her over to Hook City?
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Friday June 13th, 2014 3:12:24 PM
The horned cleric checks his bag to see if he still has the chancer's blood or hair. The officials asked for all of her remains, but it is difficult to get it all out of the reliquary (holy symbol) and spatula. Perhaps there is a drop or two. If not... a burning fire can be seen in Bosk's eyes. ...if things in this city cannot be righted...understand that my vengeance is absolute. Once I declare my undying vengeance I will see it to the end, no matter how long it takes...but if I do this my target cannot escape my judgement. I can scy on them with no focus item or material components, my need for justice linking us till they have paid their debt in blood.
ooc: It will be the DMs call if I have any remains. The officials asked for the remains in a Saturday post and then we switched DMs and his first post was Monday evening. I never posted I returned them, but I would have. However it would be difficult to remove the blood completely from my holy symbol and spatula.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] d20+21=31 ; Friday June 13th, 2014 9:38:53 PM
Garret watches the crowd disperse carefully, on the lookout for any who seem to be up to no good, or who look like they may be taking advantage of the situation by trying for some extra pickpocketing (Perception: 31).
A storm brews, will it be a doozy or a dud?(Co-DM JonathanT) Friday June 13th, 2014 10:21:15 PM
DM JT to Bosk: I agree that Bosk would have handed over all of the remains. I also agree that they didn't wash the spatula and nor did Bosk, so some smeared blood will still be on it.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility Saturday June 14th, 2014 5:02:44 AM
Tink decends back to the group with Restlin, visibly angry. "There is insufficient evidence to blame this mess on the Chancer's club. More evidence than the word of a thief is required in my view. To publicly blame them like that without due process is irresponsible"
Sesha [AC 26 /15 Touch/23 Flat] | HP 138/84+22 | CMD 19][See Invisibility] Saturday June 14th, 2014 5:59:31 PM "Katinka."
The word is spoken with a forced patience. Sesha thinks a moment, then relents.
" I'll commune tonight, but if Serenbeth chooses to show me my anger is not misplaced, the Chancers Club will receive no further due process from me."
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility Sunday June 15th, 2014 9:25:44 AM
Tink looks to Sesha with a quizzical expression.
"I would expect no less, Sesha. I understand the ties that Blood Witches have with their Immortal Powers is strong, and if you are directed on how to proceed then so be it. Let us remember that justice must be observed even to the lowest. And yes, whoever has done this to the city is pretty low. All I ask is that due process is followed"
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Sunday June 15th, 2014 5:57:03 PM
ooc: If this is something we are wanting to peruse and Sesha verifies the target I will make them the target of my vengeance as well.
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Sunday June 15th, 2014 9:21:50 PM I agree with Restlin that it may be worth while to do a patrol tonight to help the overtaxed guards, but we should probably ask them fist whether they would like us to lend a hand or if it would be better for us to stay inside so they can coordinate amongst themselves. We know first hand from our trip at the Hook City Docs that citizen watchmen don't necessarily make things easier on people.
Beri thinks back to the time when a group of well meaning paroling citizens started a full out assault on the IA, despite the IA's peaceful objections and refusal to fight back for a good thirty seconds. Unfortunately, only one of those vigilantes was able to walk away once the IA realized that their backs had been forced against the wall on the issue.
Anrete AC:31/18/31 CMD:32 HP:86/134 DR:2 Monday June 16th, 2014 9:53:12 AM
Anrete snorts as he down yet another mead as the IA decides on their next move.
A storm brews, was it a dud? (Co-DM JonathanT) Monday June 16th, 2014 3:31:24 PM
What could have been an explosive situation seems to dissipate slowly after the gigantic automaton gives its message. One good thing about a city that is used to huge bureaucracy and slow, methodic, governmental workings is that it also instills a slow response in the citizens. Even if the mob grew quickly, that would be expected under the circumstances, any other community used to more individual control would be more inclined to take things into their own hands more quickly. But Hook City has been under a firm governmental hand for centuries, so the inclination to do rash things against governmental powers is unheard of. Hasn't the governing powers taken care of things so far?
Restlin figured that a group of people who couldn't manage to kill themselves at the first sign of trouble wouldn't make for much of a mob. He floats back down to his companions and is relieved that at least for the moment there won't be much in the way of mob justice. He does believe that they should patrol their square overnight just in case, besides, they are somewhat charge to protect their neighborhood, if for no other reason than their own honorable status in the neighborhood where they live. They are that neighborhood's Protectors, right?
Kyan jokes that a job as body guard to any Chancer's Club member would be very lucrative at this point. Changing the subject, he asks "So what have you guys been up to?"
Sesha takes Kyan's words literally. "I hope none of them do, as the Chancers have joined a very short list of people who are a part of my bedtime prayers." She hates to think she'd have to blasts a Hook City citizen who foolishly stands in her way of getting even with a Chancer's member. She then asks Bosk if he still has anything left on his Spatula after the Treasury guards scraped the remains off.
Bosk grins as he holds up his special spatula of corps retrieval newly stained with boold. Hopefully there's enough left to do what Sesha needs. He then declares his own vendeta "...if things in this city cannot be righted...understand that my vengeance is absolute.if things in this city cannot be righted... understand that my vengeance is absolute..." These words carry a lot of weight and an obligation the minotaur must fulfill no matter how long it takes!
Garret Watches the crowd carefully on the lookout for anything that seems to be up to no good, even pickpotteers.
Tink follows Restlin down, visibly angry. Unlike the others, she's not putting any blame on the Chancer's Club until there is definite proof of their guilt other than the words of a thief, for which Sesha, after a moment to gather herself, promises to commune with Serenbeth to try to confirm their guilt or not. Katinka agrees with that so long as justice is being done.
DM JT to Sesha: make sure you give the details of the Commune spell/ability, as I'm not as well informed on the witch's powers as SteveK is. Thanks. :)
Bero agrees with Restlin's judgment to patrol their neighborhood to help aleviate the task from the city guards. He remembers a time when they clashed with another neighborhood patrol who mistook them for interlopers and only one poor bloke survived to complain about the brutal treatment from the IA, (DM JT: I remember that one. LOL) so he suggests informing the city of their intent to make sure that doesn't happen again.
Despite the crowd dissipating, except for a few pockets, the IA don't feel it is all over yet and make plans to patrol their little area of Hook City that night. As they gather and start to head back to their Tower, Garret snoops around a little. He notices that the 'pockets' of citizens are of the wealthy gentry of Hook City. He catches snippets of conversations. Garret only: Highlight to display spoiler: { "We won't stand for this..." "What are we going to do? We can't just stop eating!" "I saw those Iron Tower guys leave right after the Jump... too busy to notice... coincidence? I think..." }
DM JT Note: I'm putting this here to make sure everyone sees it. I want to make sure that everyone is patient with me on this particular module. The last module was short on combat and this one as well. I don't like two modules short on combat after each other, but please view this module as one that embodies the living, breathing Hook City. I especially appologize to Anrete as he's been very patient for a long time, but I've got to get through this aspect of events as it impacts all of Hook and Mudtown and it can't be just brushed off. I wish I could just say "Hohum, money's gone, too bad, next adventure, bring it on." I hope this 'mini-module' still gives you enough to chew on though. :)
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 Monday June 16th, 2014 4:25:24 PM
Restlin wastes no time getting back to Iron Square. Once there, a flick of his wand puts a minor image of the IA Crest in the sky above the Square: a symbol that the area is under their protection. After their city's poor handling of the crisis at hand, Restlin doesn't feel anything other than their presence will be needed to keep order here, but you never know.
"We should probably do this in two shifts. No point in none of us getting sleep tonight. Sesha, Anrete, Kyan, and myself could take the first shift. Bosk, Garret, Tink, and Beri the second. That seems like a good spread of our abilities."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] d20+21=40 ; Monday June 16th, 2014 6:50:51 PM
Garret glares at the crowd, especially in the direction of the person who appeared to blame the Iron Adventurers. If anyone looks at him, he smiles brightly at them.
As they head back to their tower, he continues to watch for anything extra out-of-sorts. When Restlin suggests the shifts, Garret replies, "That sounds fine to me. Not only should we be on the lookout for evil, we should be sure to protect everyone. At the same time, don't overlook the fact that people will likely look for someone to blame, and the Iron Adventurers could be blamed just as easily, or so the rumors have it. Let us do our very best to show that we are a force for good in this town, especially now, at these times."
When the others prepare for their watch, Garret heads inside and takes one last look outside, into the square, from his room high above (perception: 40) before he heads off to sleep.
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later d20+19=24 ; Monday June 16th, 2014 8:50:04 PM
"Sounds like as good a plan as any... After the watch we can figure out where I can toss my gear. I'm guessing you all didn't keep my room as I had it as some sort of shrine." Kyan says with a nudge to Restlin to show that he is kidding about the shrine bit.
as far as watch goes he'll meander about the square with eyes and ears open. (Perception: 24)
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 Monday June 16th, 2014 9:35:26 PM
Restlin grins happily at Kyan, still glad to have his friend back even if this has been one MESSED UP day.
"We still have that lamp you got from Mr. Mitzlepixel...or whatever his name was...plus the furniture you crafted yourself." He gestures towards the tower. "Wardd knows there's enough room in there for you. Should be just like old times."
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility d20+26=44 ; Tuesday June 17th, 2014 12:06:32 AM
Tink remains quiet. Perhaps her watch will be uneventful and she will have time to think things over.
Was the motive to attack the chit machine purely greed? Could the Chancers Club be behind all this? And how could she go about getting the Inspector reappointed to his former position?
Perception: 44
Sesha [AC 26 /15 Touch/23 Flat] | HP 138/84+22 | CMD 19][See Invisibility] Tuesday June 17th, 2014 1:12:14 AM
Sesha decides not to worry about what exactly she will try to divine about the Chancers club until after her watch is over. Too much fretting over anything was bad for anyone.
Instead she simply tried to keep as cheery a disposition as possible, and prodded Restlin to share some of his stories as an Iron Adventurer.
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 d20+22=31 ; Tuesday June 17th, 2014 6:07:45 AM Guys, Garret is right. People tend to be angry in situations like this, if we are doing a patrol we probably don't want to split up our party. We're already injured and low on spells, if there are problems we don't want to be at half strength as well... and if the people are looking for someone to blame we could very well be the ones causing the riot in the streets if we are seen. I'm starting to think patrolling is a bad idea.
perception=31
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility Tuesday June 17th, 2014 6:34:13 AM "I find myself conflicted. I have reservations about interfering where the local constabulary are concerned, but at the same time, I do not wish to see any crimes committed or people hurt. Perhaps just keeping a lookout from the top of the tower would be sufficient, but with the IA symbol as a silent image prominently displayed above the city to let everyone know we are still here?"
OOC: yes, I'm thinking bat-signal! :)
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 Tuesday June 17th, 2014 8:21:39 AM
Restlin looks about incredulously. "We have a duty to the people of this square, remember? We signed paperwork and everything." He turns to Tink. "We're a registered protection group here in Hook City. We're not vigilantes. From what I've gathered about other large cities, this arrangement isn't typical & is associated with organized crime. That's not the case here. What we do is considered honorable. Were something to happen here tonight & we failed to protect those around us, we would lose a great deal of standing in the community.
"Plus, you've seen how these folks react to hard times. It's in everyone's best interest that a stabilizing force be present."
He also addresses Beri. "I don't know about you, buddy, but I need to sleep at some point & I intend to do so. Having a bunch of us exhausted isn't going to help things."
Restlin is absolutely pleased to regale Sesha with tales of past exploits, starting (in hushed tones) about the time he and Kyan almost died. The story's here. It's a good read.
Anrete AC:31/18/31 CMD:32 HP:86/134 DR:2 Tuesday June 17th, 2014 10:15:24 AM
Anrete grunts in agreement with the patrol assignment.
"Pazzy here is definitely convince everyone to be good.", the barbarian strokes his greatsword lovingly.
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Tuesday June 17th, 2014 3:28:11 PM
Bosk shakes his head as Kyan speaks. You need to visit home more often and spend some time with your dear old mom. We sent all your things to her and old her you were flushed down the sewer. She must be worried sick!
The Horned Cleric pulls his bastard sword out of its sheath and begins polishing its blade of wozen steel grass. As for patrolling, I think we may want to consider protecting our tower based on the conversations I have been hearing. It sounds as if the elite are looking for someone to blame, and it appears we are that someone.
ooc: I am worried that if we patrol people will target us and innocents will get caught up in the cross fire.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 Tuesday June 17th, 2014 9:45:14 PM
Restlin puts his face in his hands, sighs deeply, and slowly lifts his face back up, his hands pulling on his skin as he does.
"You know guys, we went to a lot of trouble trying to divine what was going to happen with Jump Day. In the end, it didn't matter one lick. Sometimes being heroes means you put yourself where trouble's going to be and trust in yourself & your friends to get through it. I'm guarding our people tonight."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Tuesday June 17th, 2014 10:00:07 PM
"If nothing else, we can help protect people from those who might try to take advantage of this situation."
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Tuesday June 17th, 2014 10:38:13 PM An honorable thought Garret, but we have no business patrolling withing Hook City's walls. We are registered adventuring group, and we currently are not on any city business. We have no legal business to enforce Hook City's laws. Now that I'm thinking about it though, our tower would be a good stronghold should things turn bad, we maybe of more use giving people a safehold to whether the storm should it turn out that there are riots and the like outside.
A storm brews, was it a dud? (Co-DM JonathanT) Tuesday June 17th, 2014 11:08:34 PM
The IA don't waste time to get to their Tower. Odd looks from some citizens as they pass spur them on. Once there, Restlin displays the Silent Image of their emblem, a sign that the IA are home. He then suggests two Watch shifts evenly divided by their abilities just in case.
Garret glares at the crowd but when anyone notices him he quickly puts on a smile. He sees nothing extra out-of-sorts but does see those odd looks a few give the IA as they pass. He agrees with Restlin's Watch shifts. He points out that they should not only look out for evil, but some are likely on the lookout for someone to blame and he's heard rumors that some suspect the IA to be involved. He encourages everyone to do their best to show that they are a force for Good, especially now.
Looking into their square just before he goes to bed, he notices that it is quiet. For Day of Faith, unusually quiet. No one out partying late tonight as in the past week.
Kyan figures that the IA had already changed his room on his supposed death and volunteers to patrol the square. That'd give Restlin time to get a room ready for him.
"We still have that lamp you got from Mr. Mitzlepixel...or whatever his name was...plus the furniture you crafted yourself."Restlin replies. Looking at the tower, he assures Kyan that there's plenty of room in it for their returned member. "Just like old times."
Katinka accepts her watch duties but remains quiet, deep in many thoughts of her own about the current events.
Sesha tries not to worry about the exact details of her divining until after her watch is over. To help take their minds off the current worries, she asks Restlin to tell some IA adventurers.
Beri agrees with Garret's assessment of the way some people might view the IA and is weary of any outside patrols, themselves low on spells and such.
Katinka offers the suggestion that it may be sufficient to keep watch from atop the tower.
DM JT: even hiding in the jungle of plants that's been collected up there. :}
Restlin fills Katinka in on their duties as Protectors. They have a contract to protect the neighborhood. If they didn't show themselves in their duties at a time of crisis, then things might really get bad. Glad to tell stories, he relates the time when Kyan supposedly died. It is a long one, starting out hunting down a fiend in a Hook City mansion and leading down into the sewers where children had been brainwashed to protect the fiend. As the story finished: "It wasn't until Alexi struck that any of the children had actually been struck in combat--and a critical strike it was! (DM NOTE: I rolled a crit confirmed) Even though he was weakened by poison, the warrior stabbed the boy in front of him right through his chest. The small boy let out a groan and managed to say before he died, "For my master." Then he went BOOM! In a spray of blood, guts, sinew and bones, the entire area was covered in gore as Alexi's foe exploded in a miasma of flesh and green corrosive carnage. Then each child detonated as they succumbed, in turn, to their mates' accursed affliction, showering everyone numerous times in a horrific soup of acidic flesh and bones. Kyan and his cat were both shredded virtually beyond recognition by the bloody, boney shrapnel. All went black for me as pain ripped through every inch of my body and when I came to, thanks for some healing by my friends that survived (DM NOTE: Alexi ended up with 1hp left). I was told that bits and chunks of Kyan's flesh floated away, succumbing to the vortex in the middle of the sewer drain that was sucking away all the debris in the water, and the water itself was so acidic that any attempt to save him at that point would have been lethal. The one who started the blasts had the nerve to say 'Burial at sewer, what a way to go.'"
Anrete strokes his greatsword as he agrees with the patrol assignment.
While Restlin tells the Children-that-go-BOOM story, Bosk tells Kyan that all his stuff was sent to his mom. 'She must be worried sick!' he exclaims, now that he remembers they told his mom of his 'death'. Bosk also does not like the idea of patrolling outside, considering what he's heard on the streets.
Resltin[/i] is emphatic that what happened did so despite everything they tried to prevent it. He's going to guard his people tonight. He's a Hero, gosh darn it!
[b]Garret agrees about protecting the people, but his agreement is vague about the night patrol dilemma. Wherein Beri slightly changes the subject in proposing to prepare the Iron Tower for the possibility of holding a deluge of refugees if things get really bad.
With some not wanting to be outwardly visible in case some rabble-rousers venture through and see them and then cause a confrontation that otherwise may not have been (out-of-sight, out-of-mind), and others thinking that a show of force would prevent such conflagrations, watches are set. Some on the roof, some outside, the First Watch take up their positions.
The clock ticks by the minutes and around 10pm two well-dressed figures (presumably those that can't see in the dark have a light source) enter the square from a small side street. They skirt around the edges of the square, keeping to the shadows of the shops at first but then cross as little as possible of the square heading towards the Iron Tower's front door.
If not intercepted before they reach the door, they knock, purposefully, but not too loud.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 d20+23=26 ; Wednesday June 18th, 2014 8:10:20 AM
Seeing two folks approach their tower, Restlin heads over once they start knocking.
"It's not often we receive visitors at this hour," starts the magepriest as he approaches them from behind, "but it's not your average day, is it?" He waves to his friends on the roof of the tower, being friendly & indicating to these newcomers that there's more firepower than meets they eye at their disposal.
***
Perception: 26 - anything interesting about these folks?
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility d20+26=31 ; Wednesday June 18th, 2014 9:53:02 AM OOC: Ignore the roll. Tink is sleeping during this watch
Tink sleeps quite peacefully this night. No strange dreams, no strange visions, no nightmares. Just the sleep of the Just.
Though she does snore quite loudly for such a little halfling.
Anrete AC:31/18/31 CMD:32 HP:86/134 DR:2 d20+16=34 ; d20+12=27 ; Wednesday June 18th, 2014 10:06:41 AM
Anrete leaps beside Restlin from his observation perch and smiles menancingly.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] d20+21=24 ; Wednesday June 18th, 2014 10:19:57 AM
Garret, a light sleeper, hears the knock at the door (Perception: 24), but thinks it is just a dream and continues to peacefully dream about beautiful halfling maidens calling on his door at all hours of the night...
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later d20+19=20 ; Wednesday June 18th, 2014 9:31:00 PM
Kyan has learned to let others do the talking to all but the judiciary and so lets Restlin take the lead wrh their visitors. He'll keep watch however to see if those two are just a distraction. (perception 20, bleh 1)
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells d20+5=6 ; d12=12 ; d20+17=29 ; Wednesday June 18th, 2014 9:46:22 PM
Bosk gets what rest he can as the others watch the tower. His mind is still half in his dreams when word of the visitors reaches him. Must be the food I ordered, about time.
Sence Motive = 6 (natural 1) Perception = 29
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Wednesday June 18th, 2014 10:34:46 PM
Beri sits in a comfortable chair in the back of the foyer sipping a hot cup of herbal tea, a sweet smelling brew with hints of cranberry, sweet apple, and a hint of orange peel. He raises his eyes when the door knocks and makes sure he will have a line of sight through the door should things go bad. He wonders vaguely what would happen should the spirits of the two girls haunting the tower decide to say hello, but they have been friendly with the IA since Zeoll befriended them with toys and trinkets a while back.
A storm brews, was it a dud? (Co-DM JonathanT) Wednesday June 18th, 2014 10:48:39 PM DM JT Notes: everyone gets 1,500 xps for Roleplay, saving the poor desperate man's life, welcoming Kyan back, info gathering, etc.
While some sleep, some keep watch. The two 'visitors' are approached once they've knocked on the door a couple of times. Restlin welcomes them with Anrete's help and makes sure they know there's more to the two than meets the eye.
The two men wear hooded cloaks, as many do at night to break the slight night chill, but when approached, they draw back the hoods. They are two middle aged men, well dressed. Very well dressed. Very, very, very well dressed. The two don't seem started by Restlin's unconventional approach, as if they knew they were being watched but went through the motions of going to the door and knocking anyway. Anrete's sudden appearance though did seem to take them back for a moment, then they recover. They introduce themselves, but not by name. "We cannot give you our names, nor remove the magic that conceals our true identities due to the sensitive nature of our circumstances. But if you will hear us out, we have a proposal for the Iron Adventurers, as you are known by. But not out here. May we enter?"
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 Thursday June 19th, 2014 8:03:07 AM
Restlin smiles wide. "Sounds juicy!" he quips before brushing past the visitors. He throws open the door & walks through, leaving it open for them to enter behind him.
"HEY EVERYBODY, WE HAVE VISITORS!" he shouts out as he enters. "That smells fantastic, Beri! Is there anymore? Oh, these guys have a proposal for us. Hopefully Anrete doesn't have to teach them how to be good guests." He looks back and ushers the mysterious strangers in if they haven't already followed.
Sesha [AC 26 /15 Touch/23 Flat] | HP 138/84+22 | CMD 19][See Invisibility] Thursday June 19th, 2014 11:03:01 AM
Another distraction.
Sesha had a lot to do before bed, and yet again she was denied. She sits with her arms crossed, watching the strangers carefully.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] d20+21=24 ; Thursday June 19th, 2014 9:02:14 PM
Hearing Restlin yell downstairs, Garret gets up and sneaks to the top of the stairs, content to watch without being observed, if possible, before jumping right into something (Stealth: 24)
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility d20+36=52 ; d20+26=28 ; Thursday June 19th, 2014 10:39:42 PM
Tink sits bolt upright in bed. She had been so comfortable. She's sure he heard someone yell though.
Still in her pyjamas, she grabs the knife from under her pillow and makes her way to the top of the stairs. If the tower is under attack the group are just going to have to excuse her choice of clothing.
Garret looks to have been awakened too. On the plus side, that means she wasn't dreaming. On the down side, she didn't imagine the scream.
Tink gives a nod to Garret and then starts to descend the stairs, knife in hand
Perception: 28 Stealth: 52
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells d20+17=33 ; Thursday June 19th, 2014 10:49:12 PM
Bosk goes with the others to listen to the proposal. Although he does not like the idea of leaving the tower unpatroled he feels it is unlikely anyone could scale such a large building very quickly. Still, he keeps his eyes and ears open as the men tell their tale. (and if the story goes too long he will summon a lantern archon to patrol outside since it has greater teleport as an at will ability.
Perception = 33
A storm brews, was it a dud? (Co-DM JonathanT) Thursday June 19th, 2014 10:51:38 PM
The two visitors enter the Iron Tower with Restlin's invitation. While Restlin is loudly announcing the arrival of guests, they look around, taking note of the entry way and the first room.
The other IA members, roused from their sleep, sneak a peek at the visitors.
Once Restlin finishes his announcing and the front door shut, the spokesman asks Resltin if it is safe to talk here or is there a better place, a place safe from scrying and other such things.
"We have a proposition that is very sensitive. We understand that your group typically likes to make joint decisions so all need to hear it. Also, all need to be in agreement, we can't have some agreeing to the proposition and others not. But before we say any more, we must have your Word Of Honor that either way, accepting or not, you mention our meeting and our discussion to no one. And that means NO ONE! Not your friend the Inspector, not even our Illustrious Magistrate. Not a Soul! Capiche?"
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Thursday June 19th, 2014 11:03:35 PM
Beri eyes the two people carefully. We've been known to keep a secret or two, but we typically know who we are dealing with. We don't know if you are on a mission from the gods or are a servant of the most evil soul ever to walk the Wold. Any agreement we make I'm sure will be contingent on the fact that we are not selling our souls in the process, so before we proceed we need some assurance that you are on the side of good.
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Thursday June 19th, 2014 11:05:45 PM
Beri notices the others finally stumbling down the stairs... Of course, that's my thinking, but I'm sure most of the others will agree that we need to know at least a little more before we agree to your terms.
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Thursday June 19th, 2014 11:46:46 PM
Kyan will enter the tower last after the guests are ushered in.
to their request for a bow of secrecy before swing the secret he snorts. " Nope. If your request is something that needs telling about it's getting told. I've seen enough twisted stuff I this city I know there is some secrets that just should come to light "
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility d20+26=27 ; d20+19=25 ; Friday June 20th, 2014 1:10:58 AM
Tink slides the dagger into the rear waistband of her pyjamas "Ooh, cold cold cold!"
She has missed any introductions, but does manage to hear the part about not telling anyone anything.
"You know who we are and knew where to find us. You must know that the Iron Adventurers have a sworn duty to protect the city and its inhabitants or you wouldn't have sought us out. You are in a far better position to trust us, than we are to trust two strangers who appear on our doorstep one night. So perhaps you will tell us more before we agree to any secrecy?"
Perception: 27 Sense Motive: 25
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 Friday June 20th, 2014 8:15:04 AM
Restlin nods his agreement, though it's unlikely anyone noticed since he's digging around in the kitchen for some of that tea Beri made. If there's none left, he'll start making his own (and enough for everyone, of course).
"Yea, what they said. If what you're asking for is something that's not nefarious, we can be discreet. We'd have to contact the authorities if you wanted us to do something naughty...but you wouldn't come here if you wanted us to do that, would you?
"Still, you're going to have to take a chance with us."
Anrete AC:31/18/31 CMD:32 HP:86/134 DR:2 Friday June 20th, 2014 11:19:13 AM
"Why should Anrete promise ye anything?", Anrete snorts as he tears a chunk from his seemingly endless drumsticks.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Friday June 20th, 2014 5:32:33 PM
Garret continues to observe from his hiding place on the stairs, hearing clearly, but suspicious of these two visitors...
Two Visitors come a'knocking (Co-DM JonathanT) Friday June 20th, 2014 11:16:29 PM
The two visitors listen to each member say his or her piece with patience. Although some get a stare less than amicable, like Anrete.
"The Lady Halfling is wise for her youth." Looking at Anrete, the spokesman comments, "You, warrior, are short sighted." The man's features remains just as stoic as the Inspectors.
He then addresses all present "It is fitting that you show some mistrust of us, but Lady Halfling has it right. We know you and your reputation for success. We also know your allegiance to Hook City and your general good intent. We have seen you work and know that you would not accept any job that 'sells your souls', as you put it." he cracks a rare grin.
The speaker then looks at kyan, "Our request can be made to anyone. There are plenty of Protectors in Hook City. Our own Protectors are as well, if not better, equipped. There are certainly others that are, how should I put it, cheaper?. But you, despite your loyalties to Hook City, are rather independent."
He pauses for another moment, maybe thinking some refreshment is about to be offered, the common courtesy in such situations.
"And it is that Independence that we are looking for. We know pretty much everything the Iron Adventurers have done or been up to since you arrived in Hook City. It is all in a very thick file. Therefore, if we thought, even in the slightest sense, that what we are going to ask would go against your principles, we would not even bother to cross the river. As for our identities, we are sorry, but that must remain unknown."
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 Saturday June 21st, 2014 11:25:50 AM
Restlin claps his hands together. "Excellent! I, Restlin the Wizard, do agree to remain silent about whatever it is you have to ask of us provided you've done your homework correctly and indeed aren't about to ask us to do something nefarious. You seem to think highly enough of your intelligence to make that an acceptable response, yes? I mean, surely you didn't look into us and come to the conclusion that our independence made us likely to blindly agree to your terms?"
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Saturday June 21st, 2014 12:29:14 PM
Garret continues to look down the stairs from the shadows and ponders, "What in the Wold? Agree to what we want to do, and then promise not to tell anyone about it, and then we'll tell you what you're to do, but it won't be bad because we say so? Is that the royal 'we?' And where did Anrete get that drumstick at this hour of night?"
Sesha [AC 26 /15 Touch/23 Flat] | HP 138/84+22 | CMD 19][See Invisibility] Saturday June 21st, 2014 1:03:11 PM
Sesha sighs.
"This is getting rather silly. I know that you know that we know that you know!", she says, mocking both the voices of the strangers and Restlin. Today had been miserable and the poor little drow just wanted sleep.
She points at the men.
"I swear secrecy long enough to hear you out and decide what you're about. I'm going to keep a "these guys are bad" clause to get me out of it if necessary. If you don't like that then I'll take my little drow butt upstairs and put it to bed. If there's no new corpses in the morning, then obviously you convinced my fellows, which is enough for me to keep quiet."
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Sunday June 22nd, 2014 10:42:49 PM
"I think you two get the idea... either spit it out and trust us to keep it a secret if its a secret to be kept or go to one of those other groups you're talking about." Kyan says with a nod towards the door. He'll listen though if they choose to speak.
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Sunday June 22nd, 2014 11:25:45 PM
Bosk nods slightly as he listens to the strangers. It seems you have done your homework and know who we are and what we stand for. You have my word that we will hear you out and keep you secret as long as it is not blatantly evil and is something you judge we are likely to find acceptable, just as I trust you to remember the I am an Avenger of Jancassis who will obtain my vengeance if our trust is betrayed. You have my word.
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Monday June 23rd, 2014 12:01:25 AM I concur with Sesha. We only are on the side of the good. If you have any shady intentions you may as leave now. If we find out in the middle of helping you that you are part of some nefarious group or have unwholesome intentions, we will do what we deem right. You may have done your homework, but we are just starting ours and so far all we have is a folder full of red flags that's thick enough even a child would know to be cautious.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility Monday June 23rd, 2014 2:21:57 AM "Now now" says Tink, intervening before it comes to blows "It's late, and it has been a long day for everyone, what with the chit problem, the creature that escaped, and the bridge issues with the Day of Faith celebration. Everyone is understandably exhausted. How about we all just sit around a table with a cup of tea and some biscuits and get to know each other peacefully?"
Anrete AC:31/18/31 CMD:32 HP:86/134 DR:2 Monday June 23rd, 2014 9:50:35 AM
Anrete snorts and made no promises.
Two Visitors come a'knocking (Co-DM JonathanT) Monday June 23rd, 2014 4:13:59 PM
It would appear that the general consensus is that the IA will remain silent about the offer as long as the offer is not shady or blantanly evil, even if not all have made such pledge.
The two excuse themselves to huddle in a corner and discuss between themselves. When they return, the spokesman clears his throat.
"We know that our proposition is far from shady or blatantly evil, as you put it, so we feel confident that you won't blab to anyone that we've been here and what we discussed even if we don't have the promise from each one of you." He glares at Anrete.
"Though not all of the IA are present, we trust that what decision is made here will be accepted by the ones not present. Once you hear the proposition, you will understand the need for secrecy, even if you don't accept the offer."
At this point he looks a little smug.
"We know you had something to do with the deactivation of the Chit Machine. Not a mere something either. There are many that would gladly string you up in pieces all over town if they knew what we know. When I say we, I don't mean just the two of us."
He looks around for reactions and then continues.
"For all that, we'd have you strung up too, but we know more about your encounter in the Treasury than most and know you had no choice in the matter. Therefore we don't hold you responsible. But you will never be able to convince everyone of that. On the other hand, if you were to be able to fix it, it wouldn't matter. We know the Chit Machine is a Teucri Artifact and that it isn't actually destroyed, but simply deactivated. We know where you can look for the means to fix it. We could get another group to do it, but that would not clear your name."
He gives the statement a chance to sink in.
The other one adds "Why should it be fixed? The chits, in their own way, kept order in Hook City. We know your affinity to Mudtown, but you really don't know the history of Hook City and the reason why things are the way they are if you have the mind that the City doesn't need the chits. The families in Hook have been here since the early days, since Hook was just a small clump of shacks. The Teucri came and built this city, but the manual labor was ours, our ancestors, that is. The Chit Machine was our reward, our payment for this City being as grand as it is. Mudtowners are newcomers, they have no sense of our history nor care. Without the chits, we have no power to keep order. The vast wealth of Hook City is now a pile of worthless glass and the City has no means to pay for the safety of the City, in or out. Mudtown now seems to be working to take it's wealth, as small as it is, and try to usurp control of Hook City. We can't let that happen. You can imagine the chaos. The City would just collapse!" he finishes in an exasperated tone.
The spokesman puts his hand on his companion's arm to calm him down and adds "We are prepare to offer gems and jewelry equivallent to 20,000 gold coins per Iron Adventurer that takes up our request to find the Teucri or the means to fix the Chit Machine."
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 Monday June 23rd, 2014 4:24:11 PM
It's safe to say that Restlin doesn't like these people very much. He's almost willing to tell them to shove their offer & take on any Hook City citizens that care to speak out against them. He calmly walks to Sesha, prepared to calm her should she decide to act appropriately.
He's stayed by the fact that these smug gentlemen are correct about the effects of the loss of the chits. By golly, Restlin loves this city. He'll bear their egos if it means making things right.
"I'm in," he states plainly. He can think of several other choice words, but he saves them for his friends once these jerks leave.
***
Sense motive is +21. Please roll and let me know if there's anything interesting I figure out.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Monday June 23rd, 2014 6:36:04 PM
Garret stays in his hiding place no longer and walks down the stairs, talking as he goes, "Oh, you know a lot about that encounter? Then you know what that thing was capable of doing, not only to us, but to anyone else in Hook City, should it have escaped. If you are threatening to spread false rumors about the IA, be prepared for the consequences."
He looks around at the others as he continues, "I, for one, am not sure I want to turn that thing back on! From what I saw, that creature was put in place and protected, and once it was released, the entire city was nearly destroyed. How do we know that won't happen again, if we should manage to turn it back on? Now I'm as confident as anyone here about Sesha's abilities, but I'm not sure we could stop that thing again. And I'm not sure we know how to contain it IF we find a way to turn it back on."
"Restlin, I know you love this city. Why, I have no idea. You remember seeing that creature and the destruction it could cause. Do you really want to potentially unleash that creature again on the people of this city?"
Sesha [AC 26 /15 Touch/23 Flat] | HP 138/84+22 | CMD 19][See Invisibility] Monday June 23rd, 2014 8:40:35 PM
Sesha was terribly conflicted.
On one hand, she felt so bad for the Chit Machine when it passed.. it was like she and it had known some bond that no one else here would understand. To have a chance to restore it was a wonderful opportunity, but was her heart in the right place?
Logically, she knew that a large part of her connection to the machine came from her spell, and as it was the first time she had cast it, she wasn't quite prepared for the repercussions. Even if the machine were restored, it would slave away for how long?
"No."
She crosses her arms and looks apologetically at Restlin.
"To Hook City nobles the Chit Machine would forever remain a thing. Perhaps not suffering, but living again as little more than a means to wealth and never respected as the Guardian and anchor of stability that it should have been. Even if it were incapable of making these realizations itself, I still pity an abused fool that is too simple to know it is being abused. I'll not have any part in subjecting it to a second lifetime of servitude."
She shakes her broom at the men.
"The Teucri left you in the position to be a shining beacon for civilization in the Wold, and instead you segregated yourselves and turned up your noses at those who sought to better themselves. In my limited look into their mind, I imagine if they ever returned they would strip you of ANY remaining gifts they left in your care and leave you to re-learn how to survive in a society of your peers, without a Guardian you no longer deserve pampering your hineys while you mock those who seek shelter in this city."
Sesha thinks a long moment, feeling out Restlins reaction. Finally, she adds..
"A mind is a terrible thing to waste, but know this. If I catch another implied hint of a threat against my friends unless we run your errands for you, you'll be lucky to be left as little more than a slavering maniac, slurping his drool in an institution with foam padded walls. And in your few cobbled moments of sanity you'll spend every moment regretting the day you threatened harm upon Ga'alin Blood Witch and her friends. Insanity is a permanent condition, friend."
Smiling sweetly, Sesha takes a step back and lifts her eye-patch, then winks her milky-white oozing remains of an eye.
"That's a promise!"
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Monday June 23rd, 2014 8:53:34 PM
Kyan looks to his companions as it comes to light that they were present during the events that destroyed the Chit machine and he can't help but let out a little bit of a laugh at the worries of their company. "I forgot how terrible some of us Hook City folk can be. by the spirits man, get over yourselves. Our ancestors may have built the city but since then we've kept it going on the backs of others.. Turn your noses down a bit and look around. maybe try to help each other out a little bit instead of threatening to start a panic and a lynch mob for the people that just saved the lives of who knows how many people. better poor than dead." He shakes his head, "Besides, say we turn this.. Uh.. Thing back on. it starts pooping out chits again or whatever it did. that ain't going to bring back the ones that have already crumbled away. those fortunes are gone."
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Tuesday June 24th, 2014 12:08:40 AM
Beri listend to thw two strangers and the resentment the IA seems to have for them. Let's hear them out. I think he's overstating our roll in all this considering the machine had already gone berserk by the time we go there, but that doesn't mean the citizens won't hold us responsible anyway. And I know at least a couple of us have always been curious about the Teucir.
Two Visitors come a'knocking (Co-DM JonathanT) d20+21=28 ; Tuesday June 24th, 2014 1:35:40 AM
DM JT: I know not all have posted since the last DM post, but moving the story along, those who've missed can say their piece for both DM posts.
The reactions of the IA are just about as expected for those who've been following this story.
Restlin is in, he says, but not because of the two nobles but because of the City itself and what it has become for so many and what it might still become for many others, given the chance, if it survives.
Garret finally decides to reveal himself and comes downstairs. He makes a point that anyone that spreads false rumors about the IA will be vewy, vewy sorry. With respect to the reactivation of the Chit Machine, he points out its destructive capabilites and the possibility that bringing it back online might not be such a wise idea if it goes wonky again.
Sesha is conflicted. For her, the Machine had 'life' and as such, she desires for it to 'live' again. But for what? To continue to be a slave again in perpetuity? For these guys? She has strong words of her own, about their pompousness, their missuse of trusted property, implied threats to the IA if the IA doesn't go along, etc., and how she will deal with them if they try such tricks again!
Kyan, now starting to see a little of what the issue is, laughs at the dilemma the two and who they represent are facing. His argument is that they've forgotten how they got where they are and a little compassion to those who seek the Hook City Dream instead of implying the two would use those such people to turn against the IA, who saved Hook City, they'd not be in such a pickle. He then points out that bringing back the Chit Machine won't bring back the wealth already destroyed.
Beri believes the two in that there will be those who will point their fingers at the IA anyway. He also sees the opportunity to learn more about the Teucri, something not only he's been curious about.
If the two were to show some elation at Restlin's acceptance, what the others say spoils the moment.
Sense motive is +21 = 28 Restlin gets the feeling that the two are genuine insofar that their purpose is not evil, or 'shady', even if it is self serving. His knowledge of Hook City serves him well in that even if the power structure in place was not perfect, the consequences of its collapse and what might replace it... can give one nightmares!
The Spokesman answers the IA in turn as they speak. To Garret, he eyes him sharply before he speaks. "It certainly has been a long day for you, for all of us. For only tired ears would 'hear' us threaten to make public what really happened. That was not What said. I said that there were already people who put the blame on you. We would not come here, give you an option to take the offer or leave it, then threaten you if you don't take it." his voice seems strained, holding back anger.
To Sesha's rant, a Will Save vs DC20 is required for them to keep from rolling their eyes in that 'What the blazes is she talking about. Is she loony?' kinda way. "Sesha, you are a new member and we give you allowances to your lack of insight into Hook City life and the Teucri Artifacts. The Chit Machine does not care whether it is sitting out in a pasture under the warm sun or in a secure place in the Treasury. It will crank out Chits either way. That is what it was built for. What it did when it was messed with has nothing to do with a self consciousness but everything to do with the Teucri self defense mechanism the Teucri built in. Otherwise, I hardly think you would have been able to stop it. It does not have a 'mind', otherwise it could have left its chamber anytime it 'wanted' to."
Then, more calmly and yet with more steel, he points out, [/b]"Just because Inspector Auslander has taken a liking to you, and just because you were able to put yourself in the right place at the right time to stop the Chit Machine doesn't mean you are the only ones capable of doing such heroics. You point out to us how we look at ourselves, you appear to suffer the same. Don't make the mistake in thinking you are invincible. I count the weariness of the day and the stress you've been through as reason to misunderstand that we put any threats on you or your friends. The only reason we came here first is to give the IA the first chance at getting the machine back up and running and clear your names. Other than that, it does not matter to us if you take it or not."[/b]
To Kyan he adds, "We remember you, Kyan, but we thought you dead. Even better then, that you are not. However you, and Restlin too, above all here, should be more concerned about what Hook City will go through if Power is not restored to those who understand how to use it. You know that things aren't perfect here, but where is that place? You also know that, as best as possible, Power is not abused. If Hook City was an Open city, where anyone could just waltz right in and make themselves at home, there really wouldn't be much of a city at all, just a sprawling complex of buildings with so many people you could barely breath, all wanting a share of Their Chits, having no clue or care of what the true Hook City ancestors had to go through to make this all possible. There would be no Order, no Law, just a bunch of outsiders clammoring for their Right to Chits without having to work for it. Why do you think it is so hard to become citizens? You, wealthy adventurers, having done the City a great service here and there, are the few who made it to citizenship so quickly. But you worked for it, paid for it, deserve it. You want to hand it out to just everyone who walks by and demands it with no requirements other than 'I'm here, gimmy, gimmy?'"
The spokesperson takes a deep breath and finishes his long discourse, "We don't expect an immediate answer. We understand that such an offer must not be hurried. But we don't have a lot of time. However, Sesha was very clear in her answer so we should conclude that the offer has been declined. If you wish, we can return tomorrow night if necessary. IF not, then that is as it is."
He does not sound angry, or displeased, or disheartened. Just a simple statement of fact.
So the IA are split on the proposal. At least they have some time to discuss it further if they wish and know that if there is any doubt, they are under no obligation to accept it. The only obligation is to not blurt it out, but keep mum about the visit and proposition. The two were clear that it would only work if all were in agreement and showed no intention to persuade any doubters with any plea or further speeches. They stated their intent and that was that and prepare to leave.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility Tuesday June 24th, 2014 7:02:58 AM
Tink hasn't said yay or nay. Outright at least. She is still considering it though. "What I am struggling with is that you have mentioned Mudtown trying to take control of Hook City. How, exactly? If Hook is in trouble then shouldn't it be looking to its allies for help? You have also said we do not know the history of Hook City and, I believe your words were 'the reason why things are the way they are'. Forgive me, but being new to Hook I don't have the same knowledge of its history as you do. Perhaps it is that insight I am lacking. Is there something relevant that I don't know?"
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 Tuesday June 24th, 2014 8:30:56 AM
Restlin will listen carefully to what these two have to say about Mudtown's recent actions, then escort these gentlemen to the door. He'll quietly ask them to return tomorrow evening, after he can have words with his companions.
A new look crosses his face, one most of his companions have never seen worn by the wizard: anger.
"WHAT THE BLAZES IS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE?" he roars. "We are not the Iron Adventurers of Heranmar, or Mudtown, or Plateau City, or the Gateway Downs...we are the Iron Adventurers of Hook City. Goodness knows this city has it's flaws, but those flaws didn't prompt us to move out and live in a Mudtown hovel, did it? No, we sit here in our grand tower and lament about those poor folks out in Mudtown who get so looked down upon by the residents here."
He points out the front door. "Those people out there have treated us like heroes. They've looked up to us, celebrated our victories, and lavished us with gifts when we've returned home victorious...and now we're going to turn our backs on them? What's the end-game here, folks? You think this kind of power vacuum is going to usher in some golden age of equality? Has that ever happened anywhere following this kind of disaster?
"You folks want to change things for the better in this city. So do I. We don't do that by turning away from tens of thousands of people who need someone to step up and fix things. We make things better by showing people what happens when you fight to make things better.
"This city is important. It's far and away the highest seat of commerce, art, education, and magical studies in the entire continent. The loss of its economy won't just effect a handful of stuffy nobles." At this point, Restlin's anger is spent. He finds the nearest chair and plops himself down in it.
Anrete AC:31/18/31 CMD:32 HP:86/134 DR:2 Tuesday June 24th, 2014 11:41:21 AM
"How many drumsticks can 20 thousand gold coins buy?", Anrete ponders over the difficult question.
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Tuesday June 24th, 2014 12:28:42 PM
At mention of the idea of contacting and meeting the tecuri Bosk makes up his ind. I'm in. Be it with the Iron Adventurer's or another group I am in. How many people can say they met the Tecuri? Besides, any outcome we would seek for the chit machine would lead us down this road. It is the only way to determine if it is a machine or a creature. If we leave it as it is, then it will be cursed to a life of eternal deactivation and slumber. If the economy is not corrected there is likely to be fighting within the city where many will die, and the citizens of Mud Town would be destroyed in a battle given that Hook City still has its mages and magical arms and armor...and given our encounter with the protection group by the docs I do not think a flood in Mud Town immigrants will thrive in the city.
Two Visitors come a'knocking (Co-DM JonathanT) Tuesday June 24th, 2014 12:42:14 PM "How many drumsticks can 20 thousand gold coins buy?"
An average roasted turkey drumstick weighs about 8.6 ounces without bone. 1lb = 16 ounces. A 'chunk of meat' in the PF Core is 3sp for 1/2lb, (8 ounces)
We'll use these numbers for convenience.
1gp = 10sp
20kgp = 200ksp
200k/3 = 66,667 drumsticks.
How many can you eat in a day?
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Tuesday June 24th, 2014 2:23:49 PM
"Restlin, we are just as much of Mudtown or anywhere else as of Hook City. this might be where we sleep, but from what I've seen we go where people need help, not where they'll pay or treat us the best. I'm not saying we shouldn't help with this Teriyaki Chit pooper machine, but I'm not sure it's really going to help that much. the city economy is still there.. People can work, make things, eat things. what's changed is how they pay and will be paid. chits are special, sure, but we could go down to the river and dig up some shells to use instead and as long as the city decided they had some value they could work just as well." he shrugs, he really isn't an economist so the details are lost on him.
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Tuesday June 24th, 2014 3:51:54 PM
Bosk explains to Kyan that the group has transferred the protection of Mud Town to another protection group after an enemy demonstrated the groups inability to watch over two locations at once and burned a large portion of town to the ground. After so many innocents died in order to target the group they had decided to focus more on Hook City in order to prevent others from being used against them and becoming casualties. Mud Town supported this idea and has since been relocated even farther away from the city's gate. He also points out that the group paid to officially be a protection group in the city and signed paperwork giving them a different sort of obligation to Hook City than they have anywhere else in the Wold.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Tuesday June 24th, 2014 9:40:52 PM
Garret says, sort of to Restlin, but also to Sesha, "I am still very, very worried about turning that thing on. If no one here has any clue about that thing, I don't see this turning out any other way than that thing being on and it destroying everyone and everything in the city. I think that will be worse than refusing to help here. Someone is going to have to convince me we at least have a chance to have that thing back under control, or limited, or something so that it won't start killing the moment it comes back to life, or whatever we're going to call it when it is turned on."
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Tuesday June 24th, 2014 10:42:53 PM
Beriothian turns to address the rest of the IA. We've already seen the mass panic outside, people committing suicide simple because they are terrified of what happened. We could very well be looking at devastation worse than when the zombies attacked, especially if any of the Hook City guard start to worry about how their next paycheck is going to be cashed. I say we hear them out. We already have an understanding that if things ever turn out to be nefarious in any way that we walk, so why not hear them out and actually try to help Hook City one more time?
DM JT: fixed the brackets.
Sesha [AC 26 /15 Touch/23 Flat] | HP 138/84+22 | CMD 19][See Invisibility] Tuesday June 24th, 2014 11:14:57 PM
Sesha is conflicted again!
While a very large part of her wants to just cross her arms and refuse, she is quickly realizing that the deed will be done whether she helps or not.
"I don't trust those men. I don't trust Hook City's puppet masters either, for all I can see of them. The barbarians of Ga'al at least kept their leaders in plain sight. You didn't have to fear stepping on a snake when it was plain and in front of you. I didn't commit myself to Hook City, but the Iron Adventurers as people."
She sighs and rubs her arm.
"But Restlin is committed. Bosk has agreed. Beri has acquiesced. This is going to happen whether I want it to or not. And if I'm NOT there if the Chit Machine goes crazy, one of you might get hurt."
Scowling, she turns and gets ready to head upstairs.
"I suppose I don't have a choice.", she adds bitterly.
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Wednesday June 25th, 2014 12:32:02 AM
Bosk feels a little regret over putting Sesha in such a position, yet at the same time the minotaur cannot understand her apathy when it comed to preserving their names and restoring their honor...Why is it that no other race seems to understand the importance of honor...
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility Wednesday June 25th, 2014 6:23:58 AM "Provided what is asked is not against any laws, I am not opposed to doing it" Tink says simply.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 Wednesday June 25th, 2014 7:58:38 AM
"Sure you do," says Restlin to Sesha, somewhat dismissively. "You could walk away from this, or actively sabotage us, or publicly announce what's going on, or head over to the treasury and try to kidnap the chit machine before anyone else tries to fix it...there's lots of choices you have.
"Frankly, if you really give a damn about this machine, you should be on board anyway. You're undoubtedly the only person in the Wold who actually cares about it. SOMEONE will try to fix that thing, and someone will likely succeed eventually. I'd think you'd want to make sure you were part of that to make sure it was treated properly."
Restlin will stand and walk over to her before she heads upstairs. If it's obvious she's not to be touched right now, he won't. Otherwise, he places a hand on her shoulder & looks her in the eye. Quietly, he says "If you're going to have my back like you did at Khar's hideout, I'd much rather you were behind this mission rather than just tagging along...if you get my meaning."
Anrete AC:31/18/31 CMD:32 HP:86/134 DR:2 Wednesday June 25th, 2014 10:54:47 AM
"Anrete agrees to sixty thousand drumstick worth of gold coins.", the barbarian asserts before retiring back to the kitchen for more drumsticks.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Wednesday June 25th, 2014 6:05:51 PM
Garret watches Anrete go, and starts to step after him. He quickly says, "Well, I guess we're all in, but don't say I didn't warn you!"
He takes one last look around, then turns and runs after Anrete to see what he might find in the kitchen.
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Wednesday June 25th, 2014 7:03:35 PM
"you all are going to have to fill me in on what actually happened.. But in the morning. I'll head back on watch."
Two Visitors come a'knocking (Co-DM JonathanT) Wednesday June 25th, 2014 11:31:02 PM DM JT quick note: please don't think you, as a Player, don't have a choice. I don't like railroad plots. I read Sesha's post and took it to mean that the PC (not Player) thinks she does not have a choice. Players always have choices. Playing in Character, if it is not something your PC would do, don't do it. :)
DM JT OOC: I'll not rehash each post as customary due to some time constraints.
The IA banter back and forth about the wisdom of bringing the Chit Machine back into operational 'life' and the morality of keeping a 'sentient being' basically imprisoned versus the possible, or probable, dire outcome of the power struggle over Hook City that is soon sure to take place.
Although most seem ready to take the job on, some are still hesitant.
The spokesman answers Katinka politely. "I don't have time to give you a History Lesson on why things are the way they are. For that, you may avail yourself from several good libraries in town. You must be a brave one to have been invited to join the Iron Adventurers, but you, and Lady Sesha, are prime examples of why it is made so hard for most to become citizens. If you had gone through the proper procedures, you would have been here long enough to know that Mudtown is not an ally. Far from it. They are a ragtag group of people that converged on Hook City to take advantage of the Trade Caravans that await their turn to enter Hook. Despite the service they provide for those who wait to enter Hook, despite the craftsmen that ply their trade in Mudtown, they are, for the most part, an undisciplined mob that actually prefer to stay outside the walls where the Law does not touch them.
As much as it may seem that we ignore them, we do keep a sharp eye on what goes on there. So we don't exaggerate when we say that Mudtown is right now organizing to try to take control over Hook City."
After this, the two thank the IA for their time and promise that they will return the next night. They emphasize that it is an offer made to them as first choice but they don't want to cause a rift between the IA. Then they leave.
Restlin lets out some frustrations. His speech hits at the heart of his being. Perhaps he manages to persuade those reluctant ones that are left. They have the next day, and some rest, to think about it.
Or so it seemed.
Around 1am, a disheveled man scuttles across the square and heads straight towards the front door. His tattered robes a mess, his hair and beard a disaster.
If he is intercepted, he says, in a raspy voice, that he's come on stupendously important business to see the IA. Otherwise, he reaches the front door and knocks as loud as he can.
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Wednesday June 25th, 2014 11:50:16 PM
Beri, having been awake for the first shift, is sound asleep when the man approaches. The herbal tea he was drinking before has relaxed him some after the tense conversation, and he dreams strange dream where rainbow chits fall from the sky and turn into wonderful breakfast foods upon their hitting the ground.
Sesha [AC 26 /15 Touch/23 Flat] | HP 138/84+22 | CMD 19][See Invisibility] Thursday June 26th, 2014 12:25:18 AM
"You don't understand Restlin. I don't have a choice. I won't let you get hurt. Even if you told me you planned to march into the wilds and murder every warrior of the Ga'alin I couldn't let you go alone. The Iron Adventurers mean too much to me. You led me to Serenbeth and I don't believe in coincidence.."
She takes a deep breath and punches him in the arm. Hard.
"So don't ever think I'm not going to give it my all when you are involved. I just hoped I could talk you out of this one and let that poor thing sleep."
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility Thursday June 26th, 2014 2:49:52 AM
Being on second watch, Tink is much more prepared to accept company.
As the man reaches his hand out to rap on the door, Tink steps unseen from the shadows "Perhaps I can help you?"
"Stupendously important business you say? Perhaps you should come in" Tink will escort the man into the foyer and call for the others, announcing yet more company.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 8 d20+23=38 ; Thursday June 26th, 2014 7:46:18 AM
Restlin grins his trademark stupid grin at Sesha. "You're right! I didn't understand." His tone gets more serious, "but don't you ever say that we're taking away your choice. If you're choosing to blindly follow us, so be it. As for that poor thing, like I said...SOMEONE is going to try to fix it. If you care about it, so do I, and I want to be part of fixing it to make sure it's being treated properly."
He listens to their visitor's explain Mudtown to Tink. He's heard it before, and believes it more than he'll admit to his companions. He remains committed to correcting this turn of events.
Back on guard duty, he'll fill Kyan in on the goings on with Mudtown, like how a rogue protection group with a semi-retarded pyromaniac sorcerer burned down several blocks to prove the Iron Adventurers couldn't protect Mudtown AND Hook City. They were right, of course, so we decided to let someone else protect Mudtown. He wonders how that will sit with Kyan, seeing how he probably felt more at home in Mudtown than the City proper..."
When this mess of a man comes calling, Restlin's guard is put up. He hasn't forgotten what those folks said about citizens gunning for us. He'll cast detect evil before approaching him, making sure he doesn't register.
***
Perception: 38 - looking for hidden weapons or signs that he's disguised Sense motive is +21 if you want to roll in secret for me as he starts talking.
Anrete AC:31/18/31 CMD:32 HP:86/134 DR:2 Thursday June 26th, 2014 11:04:08 AM
Anrete is slightly irritated by the constant interruptions to his supper (understatement). He stomps toward the door and drew his greatsword menancingly.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] d20+21=32 ; Thursday June 26th, 2014 5:44:14 PM
Garret is on watch when the second visitor arrives. He sees Anrete and Tink greet the man. Garret is pretty sure those two can handle the new arrival, so he carefully keeps watch into the square to ensure the man is alone and there are not others using him as a distraction (Perception: 32).
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Thursday June 26th, 2014 7:49:13 PM
When the spokesman gives his spiel to Tink about the evil of Mudtown Kyan seems to be overcome by a coughing fit. "Bu *cough* it" but he doesn't say anything to correct him.
back on watch he listens to Restlin's tale and nods along. "I understand what your saying Restlin.. But it's just a piece of paper. if I see someone in Mudtown in trouble, I'll walk right through that sheet of paper to do what needs doing and I know you will too. I was born here in Hook City just like you and I'll keep its people safe.. But not at the expense of others that are just as deserving of our protection."
once their watch is done he'll settle onto one of the couches in the common area instead of worrying about finding a room... But sleep just isn't going to happen with all these visitors.
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Thursday June 26th, 2014 9:02:52 PM Wait. Beri, can you please escort our current guests into the bar and shut the doors. Lets honor their privacy. We will speak with the new guy in the reception area. Lets split in two groups, make sure we don't leave anyone alone. If anyone else arrives we will have to start opening up the guest rooms.
Two Visitors come a'knocking (Co-DM JonathanT) Thursday June 26th, 2014 10:25:34 PM
DM JT Note: The two earlier ones already left. They were only there at most 15 minutes, although it would seem longer. This one shows up about 3 hours later, so no need to split up into 'discussion groups'.
Crazy-Eye just happens to be passing by...(Co-DM JonathanT) Thursday June 26th, 2014 11:18:07 PM
After the two nobles leave, Beri settles in for some rest and dreams of 'Super Sugar Chit Crisps for breakfast. Although even in his dreams they crumble into powder each time he tries to stuff his mouth with them.
Sesha and Restlin come to an understanding of their devotion to each other and Kyan seems to have nearly swallowed a stink bug at the noble's reference to Mudtown's character. Technically, they both could argue their point and both be right.
As far as the IA's contract as Protectors of this neighborhood, that would not get in the way of helping Mudtown. But since the IA are gone from the area entirely for extended periods of time, keeping up Mudtown's safety took a back seat. Another Protector group moved in while they were gone. When they returned, the confrontation turned hot, literally, and said semi-retarded pyromaniac sorcerer, when cornered, eventually blew himself up taking several blocks with him.
The end result of this was that Hook City Officials cracked down on Mudtown and enforced the No Fixed Building Law that had been ignored and ALL Mudtown fixed buildings were razed.
The IA decided to set up an alternative Way Point several miles away and convinced a number of Mudtowners that were tired of the horrible living conditions and were friends of friends of the IA to move out there.
The new settlement was named Five Mile House for being five miles outside the city limits, obeying the five mile rule for fixed buildings. Hemust and Jillian run the place with a dozen or so farmers and craftsmen. It has only been in existence about 6 months or so but looks promising.
The IA found that most Mudtowners preferred the horrible living conditions since it still had the promise of Trade and Protection of sorts, more so than a small hamlet 5 miles away.
Katinka interrupt the disheveled man before he can knock and invites him in. 'Stupendously important business you say?'
"Stupendously important indeed. Very Stupendously important! Oh, thank you Miss." he replies in a raspy voice and he enters the foyer.
Anrete, who is still eating at 1am, stomps towards the door menacingly waving his big sword.
Garret remains outside keeping watch while the rest look upon their new visitor.
The man sports a tattered robe that once was rich. His hair is a wiry mess and his beard matches the same condition. One eye is wonky so it is hard to tell who he is looking at. Either way, both have a crazed look about them. He smells not very good, like an attempt to create a perfume went awry. If he looks old, he looks a hundred, but a spry old man he is. Nervously twitching, eyes darting back and forth, hands seem to keep grabbing for something.
Despite all this, there are no signs of magic about him. It would seem he is genuine. DM JT Note: info above is using Restlin's Perception and Sense Motive. No roll needed.
Knowledge Local DC30: Highlight to display spoiler: { This is Socraterius, the ex-Keeper of the Treasury. You remember something about him being replaced but don't know why.}
With all eyes upon him, he blurts out in his raspy voice, stuttering on random words, "You must help us get rid of the Invaders Curse upon Hook City! You MUST! We must be rid of it once and for ALLLLL!"
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 3 d20+25=33 ; Friday June 27th, 2014 8:13:41 AM
Back outside with Kyan, Restlin rolls his eyes as he answers, "well of COURSE we'll help someone in need. We just leave the day to day protection of Mudtown to someone else.
"Things out there have gotten worse since you've been out of commission. Most of the decent folks moved away to Five Mile. What's left are opportunists, criminals, and the mad. If Mudtown is genuinely making a move to take over the city...well, I doubt it will go well for them, but they can still hurt a lot of innocent folks who live here."
When this newcomer arrives, Restlin recognizes after a bit of study. "Socraterius, is that you? By the powers man, what happened to you?" He offers the man somewhere comfortable to sit. "I haven't seen or heard anything about you since you were Keeper of the Treasury," he states, hoping to fill his companions in on who sits before them.
Restlin will listen to what the man has to say, but really hopes he's not just keeping him from some much needed sleep.
Anrete AC:31/18/31 CMD:32 HP:86/134 DR:2 Friday June 27th, 2014 12:37:26 PM
"Anrete thinks he will start by eating this drumstick!", the barbarian proceeds to tear into his huge greasy drumstick.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Friday June 27th, 2014 5:26:45 PM
Garret continues to watch outside, wondering who else might be coming for a visit this night.
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Friday June 27th, 2014 6:52:20 PM
Bosk takes a deep breath and gets the man an ale. Ok, start from the beginning. What is this invader's curse and why must we be rid of it, oh and what is our role in all of this?
Sesha [AC 26 /15 Touch/23 Flat] | HP 138/84+22 | CMD 19][See Invisibility] Saturday June 28th, 2014 3:21:57 AM
Sesha walks to Anrete and puts a small hand on the massive barbarians shoulder. When she has his attention, she will pluck a small bit of the drumstick off the bone and eat it.
"I wish I could take things as easy as you do Anrete!"
She braces herself for the next stop on tonights crazy train.
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Sunday June 29th, 2014 8:29:49 PM
Kyan rubs a hand over his face and mutters, but settles back to listen to their madman visitor.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility d20+26=41 ; d20+19=33 ; Monday June 30th, 2014 12:30:13 AM
Well, Restlin looks to know the man. At the moment, it seems likely he could be from Mudtown. "Would make sense that they might come here to ask us for help" Tink reasons.
She listens to what the man might have to say, all the while wary that if he is from Mudtown he won't face a warm reception from some in the group.
Perception: 41 Sense motive: 33
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Monday June 30th, 2014 6:01:56 PM
Beri walks town the stairs when he hears the commotion starting up once again. We aren't going to get a moment's peace tonight I suppose... does somebody have the kettle on already? Good. Let me fetch a cup of tea before you start. Beri returns with a piping hot cup of a sweet cherry and lime tea, reminiscent of the colorful 'Super Sugar Chit Crisps cereal he used to eat as a kid. He settles into the same chair as before and listens to what the visitor has to say.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 3 Monday June 30th, 2014 6:36:05 PM
Restlin decides that Beri's tea smells amazing, and grabs himself a cup while Socraterius settles himself in. While he's at it, he offers their visitor a cup as well.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Monday June 30th, 2014 8:08:17 PM
Garret, still outside, looks up at the stars and realizes he really doesn't know any of the constellations in this sky.
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Monday June 30th, 2014 9:48:40 PM
Kyan takes the opportunity to remove a particularly stubborn blockage from his nostril
Crazy-Eye just happens to be passing by...(Co-DM JonathanT) Monday June 30th, 2014 10:03:32 PM Restin recognizes the crazed man but not on a personal basis, only through reputation. He had heard something about the Keeper of the Treasury being replace and the name Socraterius, but that was about it.
When offered to sit, the man does not but remains standing, fidgeting. 'Socraterius, is that you? By the powers man, what happened to you?'
The man glares at Restlin and blurts out "What'd you expect! They're everywhere! Corrupting Everything! But at last I'm free of them!"
Anrete just like drumsticks. This crazy talk is for the birds.
Garret remains outside on watch.
Sesha[b] wishes she could take things as easy as the barbarian does. Ignorance is bliss?
[bKyan rubs a hand over his face and mutters, but settles back to listen to their madman visitor.
Katinka thinks, by the looks of the man, that the crazed man is from Mudtown. Makes sense to her considering the warnings they just received.
Beri gives up on sleep for now and wonders if the kettle is on. He hurries to the kitchen to get it going. He hopes to get a cup in hand to the visitor but the visitor is too agitated to wait and keeps rattling on about the infestation that has cursed Hook City and that it must be rid of.
But Bosk is quicker and has a mug of ale in seconds and hands it to the man. 'Ok, start from the beginning. What is this invader's curse and why must we be rid of it, oh and what is our role in all of this?'
"THE BEGINNING? he shouts. "You know the beginning! Well, perhaps you don't. You should, though! You've been here long enough!" he blurts loudly.
Taking the ale, he gulps it down loudly, ale dribbling out the side of his mouth and down his scraggly beard.
"You know the Teucri. They came and made promises. We built this city on those promises. But those promises were a CURSE! We've been enslaved by the Teucri and don't EVEN KNOW IT!"
GULP! GLUP! SLOBBER! GULP!
"You must help finish it! You've already finished off the most incidious part of the curse. You must not stop now. You must finish IT! They MUST ALL GO BEFORE HOOK CAN BE FREEEEEEEEEE!"
In his mad ravings, he dashes out the door and across the square, waving the mug wildly, the sound EEEEEE echoing from the buildings.
Oddly enough, as far as anyone can tell, he never mentioned if he was here on behalf of Mudtown, or anyone else, as far as that goes.
DM JT OOC: you may try to stop him, it would not be all that hard, but from your Sense Motive and Perception rolls, he's fairly crazed and probably won't get much more out of him than he's already blurted.
Restlin heads back upstairs, but in his head he's spinning his wheels. That man was once a respected member of the Hook City government. Sure, he may be mad, but maybe not?
One thing's for certain: he's going to really have to do his homework regarding the Teucri...
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility d20+26=36 ; d20+36=56 ; Tuesday July 1st, 2014 6:51:22 AM
Tink sighs. Perhaps the poor man is insane, and perhaps not. In his state he should not be wandering about alone at night though.
"I'm going to make sure he is ok. I won't bother him, but perhaps see if a friendly guard might see that he makes it home safely"
Tink will nod to the others and take off after the man. She keeps her distance so as not to be spotted by him; she doesn't want to alarm or spook a man who may be in a paranoid or delusional state. Should she encounter any town guards she will advise that the man is in some distress and could use some assistance to see that he arrives home safely.
Perception: 36 Stealth: 56
Sesha [AC 26 /15 Touch/23 Flat] | HP 138/84+22 | CMD 19][See Invisibility] Tuesday July 1st, 2014 10:20:19 AM
Sesha shouts after Restlin, before going to bed herself.
"Keep an open mind in all this, Mage-Priest!"
Then dark and sleepy time.
Anrete AC:31/18/31 CMD:32 HP:86/134 DR:2 Tuesday July 1st, 2014 11:38:41 AM
Anrete grabs a few more drumsticks and wanders off to his bed. "Don't let the worries of tomorrow remove the strength for today! Eat more drumsticks!"
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 3 Tuesday July 1st, 2014 1:44:12 PM
Restlin stops mid-ascent, turns around, and looks Sesha in her eye. "Sweetheart, I am the apotheosis of alternate possibilities." He then winks at her & proceeds back up to bed.
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells d20+4=20 ; d20+4=22 ; d20+4=23 ; Tuesday July 1st, 2014 3:45:05 PM
Bosk peers out the door, hoping not to see anyone else approaching. Have any of you ever heard of this curse before? I think I may have heard people talking about it before...
Knowledge Arcana to recall anything about the curse = 20 Knowledge History to recall anything about the curse = 22 Knowledge Religion to recall anything about the curse = 23
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Tuesday July 1st, 2014 4:53:29 PM
Garret watches Tink run past, clearly following the madman. When Bosk looks out the door, Garret steps out of the shadows so that he can be seen, nods to Bosk, then steps back into the shadows to continue his watch.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 3 d20+23=31 ; Tuesday July 1st, 2014 5:02:33 PM
Restlin ponders it as well on the way up to bed...
Knowledge, Local: 31
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 d20+1=12 ; Tuesday July 1st, 2014 5:50:18 PM So, the way I see it we have have a crazy guy who's probably being truthful... but crazy. A pair of shrewd, deceptive patrons who are likely being just as truthful... and hiding even more. A populace that if enslaved probably would fight against being freed... and of their own free will. And any possible action will likely cause some level of chaos, destruction, or enslavement to the city we are sworn to protect. Does that sum it all.. oh, and an ancient curse, does that sum it all up? The druid takes a sip of his tea and looks reflectivity as the small waves bounce against the side of his cup. Well, crazy prophesies got us into this mess, I say in the morning we go to the seers and ask them to divine what they can. As far as I can tell our journey is pretty much going to start the same way regardless of whose cause we trust more, but it seems the powers of the Wold have an interest in how this plays out so we would be wise to listen to anything they have to reveal on the matter... no matter how cryptic.
knowledge-local=12
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Tuesday July 1st, 2014 10:29:14 PM
Kyan grunts as t crazy man leaves. "we probably should check out Mudtown In the morning too"
Someone you know...(Co-DM JonathanT) Tuesday July 1st, 2014 11:00:25 PM
The Crazy-eye madman goes out running and Katinka follows. The others let him go.
'Brother...I'm ready for bed.' is about all Restlin can say and starts up the stairs to his room. Obviously, their knowledge of the Teucri is only a tip of the iceberg.
Katinka feels some compassion for the man, crazed or not, probably crazed, and to make sure he makes it safe to wherever crazed men go and dosn't have a run-in with the town guard, the follows discreetly.
It is not hard for ther to follow and keep hidden, specially since it is dark. Socraterius weaves through the streets until... Katinka only: Highlight to display spoiler: {Socraterius appears to wander aimlessly at first, but then finds his bearings and enters Labor Town, where, upon reaching a tavern, Belching Liontaur, he enters.}
Sesha gives words of wisdom to Restlin and heads to bead also.
Anrete has words with another drumstick as he heads to his room too.
Bosk is not ready for bed yet. Have any of you ever heard of this curse before? I think I may have heard people talking about it before...'
Restlin ponders the what Bosk asked as he readies for bed.
Considering their arsenal of cursed items, Bosk thinks he may have heard something about this curse Socraterius was talking about. However in retrospect, after thinking real hard, neither Bosk nor Restlin has heard anything about a curse involving the Teucri. As far as they know, from the Low Information citizen to the highest Scholars, the Teucri are viewed in certain awe, and even to hint of such thing as a curse might bring Evil-Eye glares upon themselves.
Garret is content to watch Katinka go after the Crazy-eye, not knowing what's going on, but sure that if the man needed catching, Bosk would not have let the man out the door.
Beri sums things up very well as he sips his tea. It would appear that a visit to the Seers is in order again!
Kyan suggests paying a visit to Mudtown in the morning. Y'a never know what ye'll find.
Sleep, however, seems to be toying with the IA tonight. Shortly after Socraterius makes his unusual exit, a cloaked woman, easy to tell by the way her hips sway as she walks, walks across the square and straight to the Iron Tower door.
DM JT: if intercepted, by those outside_ Highlight to display spoiler: {You recognize Mara Waver and tells you she has important business with the IA.}
Otherwise she knocks on the door with definite purpose.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 3 Wednesday July 2nd, 2014 7:43:09 AM
Restlin lies in bed, eyes trained upwards at the ceiling. "Is this some kind of joke?" he asks himself. He wraps his blanket around his shoulders & heads downstairs. If no one has done so, he'll answer the door. Once he sees that it's Mara, some of his irritation fades. She's a friend of their group, and Bosk would have strong words for him if he gave her a hard time.
"Come in, Mara. Excuse my appearance; it's been a strange evening." He'll re-heat any left-over tea & offer her a cup before taking one for himself & anyone else who expresses interest. Then, he'll scope out where Sesha's sitting & plop himself down next to her, sharing his blanket. Then, he waits to see what Mara's here for.
Sesha [AC 26 /15 Touch/23 Flat] | HP 138/84+22 | CMD 19][See Invisibility] Wednesday July 2nd, 2014 1:44:21 PM
Sesha takes a deep breath, settling into her furs on the cave-like floor Bosk had installed for her. As soon as sleep begins to take her, she hears the knock.
Furiously she throws aside her covers and charges down the stairs. She levels her finger at Mara and screams, "FEEL MY WRATH, TOAD! INTERRUPT THE SLUMBER OF A BLOOD WITCH NO MORE!"
As the Baleful Polymorph changes Mara into a frog, Sesha warms up a pot of grease and tosses the woman in. Might as well have a midnight snack! Then a purple elephant named Anrete, with a trunk made of drumsticks, comes shambling in and demands beef stew.
Sesha wakes up.
"Damn."
Rolling out of bed she stumbles downstairs sleepily. With a yawn she mindlessly scooches over for Restlin, glad for the blanket. She remembers the woman only a little, from the orphanage if she recalls correctly. Sesha would adopt a kid one day. Serenbeth would like that. She smiles warmly at Restlin, then admires her wedding ring. Then a ruddy half-drow girl child with white pigtails comes downstairs and plops into her lap. Then another. And then two more! Suddenly drowning in a sea of crying half-drow toddlers, Sesha screams and explodes, leaving a bowl of oranges on the couch where she was sitting.
Terrified, Sesha wakes up!
"Omigodomigodomigod!"
Cautiously Sesha tip-toes downstairs and takes a seat on the couch, eyes wide and fully awake! When Restlin plops down near her, she squeaks in fear, then greedily takes the tea! She whispers to Restlin..
"What now?
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Wednesday July 2nd, 2014 2:50:28 PM
Kyan grumbles at the knock on the door, but doesn't get off the couch from where he is currently sprawled. instead he turns over and covers his head with his cloak while Restlinopens the door and lets in their newest company. he lies there a minute before letting out a sigh and sitting up to make room for more people to sit while eyeing Mara.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 3 Wednesday July 2nd, 2014 3:01:11 PM
Restlin whispers back to Sesha, "That's Mara. She's on a short list of people who can knock at any hour and get a friendly reception. She's also the only person I know, and possibly the only person in existence, who can fix that fancy armor Bosk wears."
The magepriest picks up his legs, sitting cross-legged on the sofa under his blanket. He cradles his cup of tea & waits to hear what Mara has to say.
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Wednesday July 2nd, 2014 3:02:29 PM
LOL!!! Mara is a fried of Bosk. I was getting ready to tackle Sesha or jump in front of her by the time I finished reading!
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Wednesday July 2nd, 2014 5:36:24 PM
...stranger ... tea ... chair ... ...stranger ... tea ... chair ... *bathroom* ...stranger ... tea ... chair ... Beri settles in with another cup, this time a honey-chamomile, and prepares to listen to another tale. He starts to wonder if perhaps they should be taking notes. At least this time the person doesn't seem to be criminally insane... or just plain criminal.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Wednesday July 2nd, 2014 6:51:59 PM
Garret, still on watch outside, watches as Mara approaches the door. He lets her go to the door, but stands at the ready. He sees Restlin open the door and welcome her in. He remains in the shadows, content to watch for the next night's visitor and ponders if there will become a point where one visitor overlaps another...
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Wednesday July 2nd, 2014 10:35:34 PM
Seeing Mara approach, Bosk greets her at the door, determined to help to woman who takes such good care of his steel grass equipment. Since the great fire there are few with such knowledge that he can rely on.
Mara, what can we do for you the fine, late evening?
Someone you know...(Co-DM JonathanT) Wednesday July 2nd, 2014 10:59:46 PM
There are mixed reactions to their next visitor, Bosk and Restlin the only ones truly happy to see Mara Weaver. Invited in, she promptly enters and sits as if an she knew the place well, which she does.
She makes herself comfortable and accepts a cup of tea. She closes her eyes as she sips.
"Ah. Such smoothing solace for such a long day" she whispers as she opens her eyes and stares at Restlin, now huddled next to Sesha.
"My, things have change a bit around here..." she starts and smiles but then her smile fades as she continues. "I deeply apologize for the late hour, you must all be tired after such a taxing day, but I had no choice. I've just come from a meeting of like-minded friends and associates. Once we understood what happened, the Chits and Chit Machine, we knew we had to band together and stand as One or else get swallowed up in, what-you-call-it? Mob mentallity?"
Mara Weaver definitely sounds tired and takes a few more sips of tea.
"Many of us were already members of a group that pooled our resources together for Protection. Then you, the Iron Adventurers, came along and did a good job in keeping order, Thank You, by the way, but we didn't dissolve our group. So we reconvened late this afternoon to discuss our situation and had a number of new members join. To make a long story short, our group, we call ourselves the Solidarity and Prosperity League, with one common goal in mind, ask that you, the Iron Adventurers stay here in Hook City as our Protectors. Considering the events and rumors, we were concerned that you would be compelled to leave Hook, but we really need you here. Your reputation with us is firm and we know the Iron Adventurers to be trustworthy. But know that it won't be just this neighborhood anymore. With our new members, you'll need to extend your influence to several others as well."
She closes her eyes again and finish the cup of tea.
Bosk AC: 32/15/29 CMD:26 HP 94 of 94 Spells Wednesday July 2nd, 2014 11:47:05 PM
Bosk nods his head. You can rest assured that we will do everything in our power to help you and this city, but we cannot determine what the best course of action is without all the details. Please tell us, what rumors have you heard, and how much of an extension of our influence are you talking about? We may need to find some additional help if it is too large of an area, and there are laws limiting our jurisdiction unless we fill out the proper paperwork.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility Thursday July 3rd, 2014 8:31:52 AM OOC: Sorry for missing yesterday's post guys. Battling some man-flu :)
"What now?" Tink returns to the Tower to see the group has yet another visitor. "The loss of chits really must be bothering people"
She doesn't say anything to this woman for the time being. She must be brave to wander the streets alone at night given the mob earlier in the day.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +15/+6/+12 CMD: 22 HP: 76/89 (Spells) Luck Points: 3 Thursday July 3rd, 2014 8:39:23 AM
Restlin ponders what Mara is saying. "I'm with Bosk, but understand that our new members don't have the history in this city that we do. Some of our old members also have a...well, a negative opinion on this city. It's not our way to force any member's hand."
Restlin finishes his tea. "Excellent tea, Beri. Anyway, Mara, they may need a more concrete reason to help other than 'for the good of the city.' I don't want any of them," he gives Sesha a sideways glance, "to feel like they were being used for a cause they weren't really behind." The wizard thinks a bit longer about what he's said, then feels compelled to add a bit.
"Just so we're clear, that's not an attempt to shake you down for payment. I trust that won't be an issue. Our ways here seem odd to them, is all."
Sesha [AC 26 /15 Touch/23 Flat] | HP 138/84+22 | CMD 19][See Invisibility] Thursday July 3rd, 2014 3:21:58 PM
Sesha sighs.
"I'm not quite sure on one point. Are you asking us to not leave the city under any circumstance for awhile? Or are you asking the IA to simply, when performing it's duty, protect the city as a whole not simply a single area?"
Kyan (JonL) On Phone - Will Fix Header Later Thursday July 3rd, 2014 5:05:02 PM
Kyan nods towards Sesha with a grunt of agreement. "[b]She's right. there's a big difference between 'don't leave town' and 'keep watch on the whole place'."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/29 HP:126/104 Ki:13/13 CMD: 30] Thursday July 3rd, 2014 5:49:34 PM
Garret slips from one shadow to another, looking around carefully, often staying in one spot completely still. He blends in well with the darkness as he continues his circuit around the tower, ensuring that at least if there are more visitors, they will not be a surprise.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot AC 20/16/15 -- CMD 19 -- HP 72/102 (94/124) -- Perm Arcane Sight, Darkvision, See Invisibility Thursday July 3rd, 2014 8:05:11 PM
Tink keeps a careful watch on Restlin and Sesha. Something has happened here, or has perhaps been building for a while.
Beriothian -- AC:0/1/0 HP:3/10 CMD=11 Sanity=43-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 50/85 CMD = 23 Thursday July 3rd, 2014 8:07:29 PM I too am curious about such rumors. We haven't discussed leaving Hooks City, and have no intentions to leave beyond our normal occasional job outside the walls. This is our home, and that's not about to change.
Before we go further, I feel the need to ask. We have heard more talk in the last 12 hours of secret organizations than all the rest of our time here put together. If there is such a large group of protectors I assume there is someone they are protecting against. Can you give us a quick rundown of who exactly the relevant parties are here?
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