DM Kathy Friday May 27th, 2016 12:28:24 AM
Back on the road, Lorank keeps a weather eye out, but sees no goblin tribes, and it's still a bit early for berries. You do see some promising blossoms, however. Maybe on the way back.
Toston and Asteria also watch for hostiles but find none.
Wilford tries to keep an eye out, but is distracted by his ghosts.
Dušan is a bit on edge, and tries to find magical auras. He sees none.
Hmerrin is also a bit unnerved, but relaxes as the day wears on.
Alizar expresses his thanks before hitting the road.
It is a pleasant day for a journey. The sun is warm, but not too warm, and the earth smells like growing things. Birds chirp and scold as they chase each other across the sky. And if there are hostile tribes in the area, they have found better things to do with their time than harrass a small caravan.
You make good time, but Lukas calls a halt well before sunset. "Don't want to camp any closer to Blackbird Forest," he explains. "No telling what manner of strange things will happen in the night, and we want to be well away from it."
Apparently, he is not the only one who feels this way. This place has clearly been used for camping before, many times. There is a fire ring, and a large cleared area, and some kind soul has even provided a small pile of firewood. A well-worn path leads to a small spring nearby.
"We'll want an early start in the morning," Lukas warns. "We want to get well past Blackbird Forest before we camp again."
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 d20+9=21 ; Friday May 27th, 2016 9:10:32 AM
Var, who had been quiet for most of the last day and a half, lost in his own thoughts, settles in at the camp site, using his survival skills to make the night as pleasant as possible (Survival: 21).
"Never been this far to the Northwest. What's the deal with the Blackbird? Anything like the Culverwood?" He asks.
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) Friday May 27th, 2016 2:41:47 PM
"Blackbird Forest?" Wil's young heart and mind is curious about this spooky forest. "I've only heard stories about the forest. I've also heard that many of the things people see in there are untrue." He then begins to unpack for the night. "We should go hunting for some food?" Wil asks or offers.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Friday May 27th, 2016 3:33:00 PM
Dušan offers, "I'll help if I can. I must admit, I've never hunted, but i bet shooting a bolt at an animal isn't much different than shooting a bolt at a person.
We might also want to set watches. I was thinking four shifts with one magically inclined and one martially inclined."
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Friday May 27th, 2016 5:43:37 PM
"Definitely watches," Hmerrin agrees. "How 'bout Asteria and Dusan, me and Alizar, Wil and Toston, and Var and Lornak?"
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Friday May 27th, 2016 7:43:02 PM
"Yeah! I'm up for first shift with Dusan! Bonding time!" Asteria grins widely at the thought.She also looks forward to being out hunting, but is cautious. There some bad guys out there, right? Goblins, or whatever? If we go out, we need to be careful."
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 Saturday May 28th, 2016 12:11:46 PM
Lornak walks alongside the caravan a little disappointed in not finding any other sustenance along the road as they traveled. he should have known better however, it is only early spring.
He responds to Dusan's comments about hunting; "Hunting is not like fighting my friend. You cannot just fell an animal by attacking it. You have to track it slowly and wait for the opportune moment to strike. Animals tend to shy away from noise and ruckus. A stag will bolt when he senses danger. Not like a brigand trying to prove something."
He sets down his gear and readies his bedding with ground cover. He is glad to take the last watch for now he is ready to rest. He continues his comments about a hunt; "Besides, I am fairly certain game along a main road like this will be scarce because many traveler's have the same thoughts as you two..." He looks at Hmerrin. "...and likely have thinned the game." He lays his head back and closes his eyes. "We would have to travel farther in..."
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 Saturday May 28th, 2016 12:15:07 PM
"...It would please me to teach you how..., ...to track if..." Lornak passes out.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 d20+3=12 ; d20+12=31 ; d20+13=19 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+12=30 ; Saturday May 28th, 2016 12:33:01 PM
"I'm game for hunting but I don't have any experience tracking game. I am pretty sneaky though and have keen senses and I am a fair shot with my bow so maybe I can help."
The gnome offers to accompany his friends on a hunting trip.
(Survival : 12 vs DC 10 to aid another = success) (Perception: 31 for hunting) (Stealth: 19) (if anything found 8 vs AC; miss)
When it comes time to stand watch Toston stands with Wil keeping his senses sharp. (30 for perception)
"Can your ghosts help with the watch?" Toston asks.
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d20+6=21 ; Sunday May 29th, 2016 12:38:35 AM
"Watches are definitely wise, never know what is lurking in the bushes". Alizar bid the hunting party 'fair luck' as they departed, and set to work getting camp ready for the night. He took a look around the surrounding area to see if he could find any likely spots that an ambush might come from int he night. (Perception: 21)
DM Kathy d20=7 ; Sunday May 29th, 2016 11:00:06 PM Var asks about Blackbird Forest. Ekhart, the merchant who has traveled this road before, replies.
"Never seen the Culverwood, but I'd say Blackbird Forest is like nothin' else in the Wold, Alemi be praised. You wouldn't want two such places, that's for sure. It's supposed to be haunted. And magical. You go in, you don't come out--or you don't come out the same. The magic'll change you, if it don't kill you outright. They say there's a witch lives in there, boils people in her big black pot and eats 'em."
[OOC: Ekhart's information is part truth and part hyperbole. Here is the Woldipedia entry if you want to know the actual details.]
Wilford suggests hunting for food, and Dušan is keen to try his hand, as is Toston. Lornak cautions them that it might not be easy.
Indeed, hunting in the spring is a bit of a challenge. Most animals are bearing or caring for young, and responsible hunters want to avoid killing a mother animal, dooming her young ones to starvation in her absence. You poke about for a bit, and manage to snare a couple of hares, perfect for the stew-pot.
Meanwhile, Hmerrin and Asteria arrange a watch order, and Alizar looks around the camp for likely attack points. You realize that anybody going for water might be vulnerable, and recommend going to the spring in pairs.
However, the night proves to be uneventful. You polish off your hare stew and take your watches, but nothing disturbs your camp.
The next day's trip past Blackbird Forest is a bit anticlimactic, although you do hear some very strange noises coming from somewhere in the trees. What kind of animal roars like that?
The next nights are as uneventful as the first, and a couple of days later, you come to the outskirts of Acid City a little after noon.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 d20+12=15 ; Monday May 30th, 2016 2:41:23 PM
"This is my first time visiting Acid City." Toston says, "Any interesting attractions that shouldn't be missed?" The gnome asks both the party and the merchants.'
"I mean we still need to buy some visual cookbooks and non perishable ingredients for our goblin friends but besides that." He points out.
The gnome keeps his eyes peeled for anything interesting (Perception: 15)
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+10=18 ; d20+6=10 ; Monday May 30th, 2016 4:56:01 PM
As Lornak approaches the outskirts of Acid City he picks his pace up to get to the head of the Caravan. He starts scoping the people and places that lay ahead of them looking for any trouble. (Perception d20=18)
As he moves through the crowd and front gate he recalls being here in his wanderings with his mentor. He tries to recall anything of interest that could help the group in a pinch, perhaps areas to avoid, or perhaps the towns politics. (Knowledge d20=10)
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Monday May 30th, 2016 6:06:02 PM
Dušan maintains his concentration on Detect Magic. As they near the city he ponders, " I wonder if they have a Mage Guild here. I've never had any luck finding members in Dirt before."
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d20+7=17 ; d20+8=23 ; Monday May 30th, 2016 6:44:11 PM
Alizar spent a great deal of the rest of the journey lost in his own thoughts, and before he knew it that were at the gates of Acid City. He turned to the merchants, "Do we have a place to stay while we are here? What will be the itinerary for our stay here?"
It had been sometime since he had been to Acid City, he tried to remember any useful information to share with the group. (Knowledge Local: 17; Knowledge History: 23)
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Monday May 30th, 2016 8:28:01 PM
Asteria swaps her Greataxe for a smaller Battleaxe and a shield. Less intimidating, but still dangerous. "So what now?"
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Monday May 30th, 2016 8:39:15 PM
Hmerrin is more than happy to get past the Blackbird Forest without any humongous, fanged critter jumping out and trying to eat somebody. As Acid City approaches, he sits a bit straighter in anticipation, as the thrill of seeing something new gets his blood flowing.
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 Monday May 30th, 2016 10:30:34 PM
"Never been out of Izen before..." Var says to Toston.
"So, ah" he says hesitantly, "This being Aisildur, do we need to be wary of the heartseeded?"
DM Kathy Monday May 30th, 2016 11:14:10 PM
As you approach the city, Toston asks about any sights to see, but his companions don't know of any, and the merchants are too preoccupied with their arranged meetings.
Ever practical, Alizar asks about an itinerary and a place to stay. "We don't have arranged accomodations," Lukas replies, "but we do have a recommendation for a good inn. Hopefully they can take us all. We have meetings set up for the next few days." He looks a little hesitant. "We...we may want you to accompany us to some of them. I'm afraid it'll be pretty dull, but after those bandits...well, you can't be too careful, can you?"
Dušan wonders aloud about a mage guild. They may have a small one here, although the politics may be a bit dicey, given that Acid City is ostensibly part of Aisildur.
Var asks about heartseeding, but Lornak is able to reassure him. The Aisildurans look on heartseeding as a great privilege; they won't heartseed anybody who doesn't want it.
Asteria, Hmerrin, and Wilford are just eager to see what's next.
Consulting some directions written on a scrap of paper, Lukas leads the group through the streets toward the center of Acid. It's not as big as Dirt City, but it's considerably cleaner. And there are fewer tough-looking, heavily-armed people with aggressive looks on their faces. You do see one or two heartseeded people, but they are just going about their business like everyone else.
Lukas leads you to the Golden Bough inn, a fairly nice place that obviously caters to prosperous merchants. He pays for rooms for the party, although most of the group will need to double up. It's up to you whether you want to share rooms with the merchants, or leave them to their own arrangements and just share with each other.
Lukas also pays for the midday meal, a welcome development, since lunchtime had come and gone while you were making your way through the city. The meal is good, if simple--the bread, in particular, is delicious.
"There's a sort of welcoming party for us this evening," Lukas explains as you eat. "I think we'd all be a lot more comfortable if you would accompany us. Show everyone we didn't come without protection, eh? That's not until evening, though, so you have the afternoon to explore the city if you like."
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 d20+10=27 ; Tuesday May 31st, 2016 8:41:39 AM
As they travel the city, Var keeps his eyes on the citizenry and trying to build a mental map of the city streets (Perception: 27)
When Lukas requests them to accompany them to boring merchant meetings Var nods, "Of course, that's what were here for, after all." he says. "Might be a good idea to spread us out among the merchant rooms, too, eh? Keep any 'goblins' from sneaking in at night." Var says, giving Dusan a wry smile.
Not that he minded providing the extra security, Var wondered about how dangerous Acid City was in comparison to Dirt City. He's hesitant to leave the merchants on their own at the Inn, but he supposes it's safe enough.
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 Tuesday May 31st, 2016 7:07:23 PM
Alizar noded Var's suggestion. "We are here at your disposal, so where ever you need us to be, we shall be." The meal was a welcome distraction from the business at hand. Alizar had always liked to travel in his youth. Though, it had been almost a hundred years since he had done any real travel. Things had not changed much from what he could tell.
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+9=26 ; d20+8=17 ; Tuesday May 31st, 2016 7:13:19 PM
"Where will the meeting be held?" Lornak asks Lukas. "Toston and I could scout the location for any trouble prior to the meeting."
He puts his hood up, takes leave of the party with a bow and heads into the streets to explore. (Stealth d20=26)
As Lornak makes his way through the city his memories of Acid City start to return to him slowly. "Its been a while since I've been here..." His initial thoughts are of Blackbird Forest and tales of black feathers, familiars and passage. " I wonder if I could woo a bird of prey to accompany me on tasks such as this?" He muses. "If I still have the knack that is. Urban life might have made me soft..."
His eye return from the sky to merchant booths.
"...I should also scope any alchemical components that are hard to come by in Dirt City, they may come in handy." (Crafting(Alchemy) d20=17)
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 d20+12=16 Tuesday May 31st, 2016 8:13:56 PM
Toston enjoys the meal and accompanies the merchants to their meetings.
"I don't mind sharing a room." Toston says, "As a gnome I don't take up much space so I am fine sharing a room with someone."
While he is out in the market he keeps his eyes open for a visual cookbook and non perishable ingredients to take back to the goblins at the inn.
(Perception: 16)
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Tuesday May 31st, 2016 9:16:49 PM
Dušan digs into the meal, happy to have something that was seasoned, not preserved. After the meal he keeps his eye's open for any sign of the Mage Guild, but realizes he probably won't get a chance to further engage until his obligations were taken care of.
Dušan makes sure to be back at the inn in plenty of time to clean the road dust off and change into his fine clothes for the party.
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Tuesday May 31st, 2016 9:52:52 PM
Asteria is glad for the food, and is in a great mood from it. The mention of sharing a room doesn't trouble her too much. "I just hope you don't mind the smell!"
As for the party, she does her best to wash up and get rid of the majority of the grime from her clothes. "Can I bring my weapons to this 'welcome party' thing? Or at least just my axe?"
DM Kathy Tuesday May 31st, 2016 11:06:45 PM
[OOC: I see most people misunderstood my question about rooms. :) Are you guys only sharing rooms with each other, or are you sharing with the merchants? So, are there going to be 4 "adventurer rooms" and 3 "merchant rooms," or are you going to mix it up?]
After lunch, you gladly take the opportunity to explore Acid City. Lornak is able to find some alchemical ingredients, mostly from the water plants that grow in Blackbird Lake. You look longingly at a green dragon scale, but it's out of your price range.
With some help, Dušan is able to locate the small office of the local Mage Guild.
Toston is able to find food that will last a while. Nothing is completely non-perishable, of course, but most of this stuff should last at least a year. There are sacks of dried beans, packets of smoked fish, and jars of fruit preserves, none terribly expensive. You strike out on a cookbook, though.
Other vendors offer other delights, including scented candles, tortoise-shell jewelry, silver arrows, and of course, meat on a stick.
As you are passing by the merchant stalls, one vendor calls out to you. He does not have a stall, but has folding-stool and a small assortment of goods arrayed on a mostly-clean cloth.
"You look like the discerning sorts, good folk," he says with a smile. "Perhaps I could interest you in a unique item." He holds out a wooden box, about the size of a large book. It is very well-made, with an intricate pattern on the lid. "Only see the craftsmanship, good sirs and lady! A fine addition to any home!"
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) d20+8=23 ; Wednesday June 1st, 2016 11:21:51 AM
"Is there a history or any magic attached to that box," Wil asks. (Diplomacy: 23) He also inquires about the silver arrows and asks for silver bolts. "I'm looking for any unique bolts."
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) d20+8=27 ; Wednesday June 1st, 2016 12:01:06 PM
"Pretty," Hmerrin remarks. "What are we supposed to do with a box?"
Nevertheless, wood is wood, and the lad takes his time in inspecting the workmanship. [Carpentry - 27]
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 d20+12=19 ; d20+1=14 ; Wednesday June 1st, 2016 1:39:30 PM
"I think we should share accommodations with the merchants, that way if something comes in the night we can guard them." Toston opines
Toston purchases the long lasting foodstuffs and arranges to have them delivered to the inn. He continues his search for a visual cook book as time allows (Perception:19) He even goes so far as to ask the meat on a stick vendors and the inn's cook if they know where one can buy cookbooks and if any might be visual.
"I don't know detect magic." Toston laments, "Dusan you wanna tell us what this thing does?" The gnome asks.
Toston attempts to appraise the box (appraise : 14)
(OOC: how much do I owe for the foodstuffs?)
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d20+10=27 ; Wednesday June 1st, 2016 5:17:28 PM
"Sounds good," Dušan agrees, "We should split up similarly to watches between. Perhaps Alizar in one room. Wil and myself in another. Together we might have half of your healing graces, Alizar."
"I'm also interested silver bolts. If we can combine to bulk prices, I'd be happy to contribute."
Taking a closer look, Dušan attempts to assess what he can of the object casting Detect Magic with the aid of Guidance. (Spellcraft d20+9+1=27)
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 Wednesday June 1st, 2016 5:22:36 PM
"I agree." Lornak says to Toston. "Sharing accommodations will create a fine safety net."
Lornak finds a handful of alchemical components that are hard to come by in Dirt City. He purchases them and stows them away in his belt pouch. He also chips in coin to help purchase the things for Drex. "I must confess, I feel a little guilty for my actions when we left the inn. I believe this will settle my conscience." He hands Toston the coin. (OOC let me know how much I owe you)
Lornak smiles at young Hmerrin as he marvels at the mystery box's craftsmanship. "Careful now, the best traps are cloaked things that entice."
(OOC Trap Sense kicks in upon reacting to a trap right, it does not require a roll?)
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 Wednesday June 1st, 2016 8:29:14 PM
Var follows the group through the streets, enjoying a slice of civilization that isn't Dirt City. He eyes the wears on display but doesn't feel a need to purchase anything.
When the peddler presents the wooden box Var is confused. "What does it...do?" He asks the man.
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Wednesday June 1st, 2016 9:55:43 PM
Asteria agrees that the group should bunk with the merchants. "Should a warrior bunk with them? Extra protection?"
The wooden box catches her eye, but only for its looks. "Ooh, pretty! We could store stuff in it!"
DM Kathy Wednesday June 1st, 2016 11:03:37 PM Hmerrin inspects the box. It is a fine piece of craftsmanship. The hinge opens easily, without a sound. The box itself is made of several different kinds of wood, painstakingly pieced together in an intricate knot design. It's as much a work of art as a place to keep things.
Wilford asks about the box's history, or any magic properties. The vendor smiles. "No, sir, nothing so grand I'm afraid. Just a beautiful, well-made box."
Dušan detects no magic on the box, and Lornak can tell that, although one certainly could place a trap on the box, there is none there now.
Var asks its purpose, but Asteria has an answer. It's a box. You store stuff in it. It's a very pretty box, but it seems to have no other properties.
"Just 75 gold," the vendor says. "A bargain for such a unique piece."
Appraise DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {It is a pretty good price, on the low side for such a work of craftsmanship, but not suspiciously so.}
For other errands, Toston asks about a picture cookbook, but nobody here is able to help him.
Wilford and Lornak are interested in silver bolts, which can be purchased for 3 gold each. The vendor has a total of 10 for sale; you guys can fight out who gets how many. :)
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d20+2=5 ; Wednesday June 1st, 2016 11:09:09 PM
Alizar looked over the box, and shrugged. He was not very good with such things. (Appriase: 5) "Looks like a box to me, nice, but a box."
Nothing was really catching Alizar's eye, seemed like most of the same stuff you find in any stall in any city. Probably for the best, Alizar didn't really need any more stuff anyhow.
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) d20+1=15 ; Thursday June 2nd, 2016 11:57:41 AM
Hmerrin gives Lornak a look at the 'traps' remark, but goes on inspecting the box anyway.
[Appraise 15].
"It's a good price," he agrees with the vendor. "If a fellow had 75 gold lying around. I sure don't. Sorry."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 Thursday June 2nd, 2016 3:57:57 PM
Toston tries a different tact and tries to find out from the merchants they are guarding when they are going to be heading back. He then sets out to find a normal cook book as well as a reading tutor to teach Derx how to read common.
Toston weighs buying the decorative box and may pay the 75 gold depending (OOC: depends on Kahy's ruling in the private DM post)
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Thursday June 2nd, 2016 5:26:10 PM
Dušan finally decides he doesn't care if the box is gilded in gold. He is not in the market for such an item. He continues to browse items non-committal and leaves the bargaining to Toston.
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 Thursday June 2nd, 2016 8:54:50 PM
"75 gold for a box." Var mumbles to himself "Huh."
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Thursday June 2nd, 2016 10:04:20 PM
"Yeah, it's a neat box! Are we going to buy it or not? I don't really have much use for it, but if no one else is gonna buy it, I will. My first souvenir!" Asteria hands over the 75 gold if none of her companions do.
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 Thursday June 2nd, 2016 10:16:36 PM
Lornak does admire the box, but has no use for one with a 75 gold pricetag. He chuckles at Asteria's enthusiasm.
He turns to Wilford and speaks about the silver bolts; "I will take 3 if you please, you will get more use out of the remainder I think."
DM Kathy Friday June 3rd, 2016 12:15:50 AM
Between them, Asteria and Toston put up enough gold for the box.
"You won't regret it!" the vendor says as he wraps it up in a bit of sacking. "Craftsmanship like this will last for several lifetimes."
Lornak and Wilford are more interested in their silver bolts, and the rest of the party seems to have everything they need for the moment. So, unless anybody wants to try meat on a stick, the shopping excursion winds down.
[OOC: in response to a question from yesterday, Toston spent about 3 gold on foodstuffs.]
You return to the inn in plenty of time to get ready for the evening gathering. It is held at a public hall not too far from the inn. Several dozen people are in attendance, chatting in small groups. Light refreshments are being circulated through the crows by halfling servers.
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d20+8=15 ; Friday June 3rd, 2016 12:27:41 AM
when they returned to the inn, Alizar changed into the finest thing he had brought with him. Just because he was there in a security capacity, didn't mean he couldn't look presentable while doing it. It turns out that his nicest garment was the usual back suit he wore when he was not expecting any trouble, but he did accent the outfit with fine scarf of silver silk, which, in his opinion, really 'made' the outfit. Ready for the party, Alizar met up with his charges for the evening and entered. He tried his best to make small talk and smile to anyone who greeted him. Navigating the upper echelons of society back in Dirt City did have it's benefits, he had learned a thing or two about pretending to be nice to people that you had little respect for, nor actually liked, though, it was entirely possible that the social customs of Acid City differed completely of those in Dirt City. (Diplomacy - 15)
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 d20+10=19 ; Friday June 3rd, 2016 1:33:06 PM
At the inn Var joins the group in the lobby wearing his chain shirt. He sees Alizar in his finery and realizes that this may not be "that" kind of a party. He runs back upstairs and changes into the outfit given to him by the tailor from the city below after the whole "haunting" case. Heavy linen clothes in deep earth tones, lined with fir trim. He tucks one of his hand axes into his belt but decides to leave his longbow behind.
Var leaves the talking to the merchants, and does his best to not offend anyone. Instead he chooses to hang at the edges of the party, and watches the festivities. (Perception: 19)
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+7=26 ; d20+7=24 ; Friday June 3rd, 2016 3:45:57 PM
Lornak did not plan to have to interact with people in a social setting on this trip and regrets not bringing his scholar's outfit. He was too excited for the hunt to remember where the group would actually end up...
This does not deter him however. He goes about the room and formally solicits his scribe abilities to all he meets. He introduces himself and pedals his wares (Diplomacy d20=26)
"Pleased to met you. I am Lornak of House Kaifah, a scribe at your service. Look on me if you have need for the taking of diction or keeping of records." As he goes though his spiel with everyone, he sizes up the participants trying to ascertain who may be a threat to the trade delegation. (Sense Motive d20=24)
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Friday June 3rd, 2016 10:37:44 PM
Dušan changes into his finery. He returns to the common room dressed in black with a leather doublet ornamented with celtic braids of red flowing down the shoulders and tapering into drops of blood toward the waist.
(OOC: Dušan was interested in silver bolts as well)
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Saturday June 4th, 2016 1:12:46 PM
Hmerrin also makes use of the opportunity to actually wear his courtier's outfit. He arrives in a blue and buff outfit that accentuates his broad shoulders.
He also brings a handaxe tucked into his belt.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 Sunday June 5th, 2016 12:11:23 PM
Toston is happy to concede the entirety of the box and its cost to Asteria if she wanted it for a souvenir. Based on the appraisal that was given, Toston had intended to buy the box at the bargain price offered and then hopefully turn around and sell it for more once they set up shop in Dirt City.
If the barbarian wanted to keep the box as a souvenir more power to her, the gnome figured. He does keep asking about a Common tutor who may be willing to travel to the Goblin Inn & a normal cook book as a back up since he couldn't find a visual one.
When it comes time to party Toston shows up wearing his outlandish multi-hued explorers outfit complete with his hat of special magnificence.
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Sunday June 5th, 2016 6:22:26 PM
Asteria takes the box from Toston with much joy, happy enough to pay the full price for such a neat thing. She figures that she will keep it for a while, holding anything she deems precious in it. It should be perfect for the job!
As for the party, Asteria quickly washes up before, taking her battle axe and shield along. Better to be prepared for the worst than to be caught off guard.
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) Sunday June 5th, 2016 9:25:49 PM
Wil purchases the seven remaining bolts for 21 gp. Wil offered a couple bolts to Dusan. Back at the Inn Wil takes a drink from the halfling. Wil found, wrapped in a bundle, a Courtier’s outfit and put it on. It would be the nicest he had looked in years. At least since his mother had died. As he left the room he could hear his mother complimenting him.
DM Kathy Sunday June 5th, 2016 10:27:46 PM
You return to the inn, wash up, and change for the party. Most of you turn up in your nicest finery; Asteria settls for a clean face and a sharp axe. The merchants seem to appreciate the effort you put in.
At the party, Alizar and Lornak mingle. You meet several merchants, who seem cordial enough. An hour or so into the party, Lornak joins a group of merchants talking. One of them, a bearded human fellow around 50, is bemoaning some recent losses to banditry. "The blackguards got off with some fine goods, including some custom work that'll be nigh impmossible to replace," he says, to the sympathetic murmurs of the others. "One piece in particular: a very nice box--a work of art, really--different woods fitted into a knot pattern. I had to refund the commission I was paid and I'll likely lose business besides. It's a disgrace!"
Var isn't much of a talker, but he keeps an eye out. At one point, you notice that one of the merchants is wearing an iron pin, depicting a hawk sitting on a stylized ship's wheel.
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+7=21 ; Monday June 6th, 2016 12:09:17 PM
"I recently ran into similar brigands while on the road to the city. A cowardly lot to say the least." Lornak adds to the conversation. "We managed to deprived them of any plunder."
After the conversation turns to a different subject, Lornak turns to the bearded man and says quietly. "Can we speak in confidence about your missing item? I believe I may have the power to repair the blemish of your reputation." He starts to make his way to Asteria. "I assume we can find an accommodating arrangement." (Diplomacy d20=21)
"I believe that fine box you recently acquired may actually belong to this fine gentleman." Lornak waves to the older man. "Could I convince you to part with it?
If Asteria allows the man to inspect the box Lornak will ask the man; "Is this the box in question?"
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 d20+10=28 ; d20+4=14 ; Monday June 6th, 2016 12:57:45 PM
Var moves in for a closer look at the merchant wearing the iron pin, scrutinizing him from a closer vantage. (Perception: 28) When the man notices him staring, Var clears his throat and says "That's fine craftsmanship on your pin, sir. What does it symbolize?" (Sense motive: 14)
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Monday June 6th, 2016 2:32:59 PM
Asteria is surprised to see Lornak approach her with the bearded man, and is even more surprised to hear that her souvenir could belong to him. "But I bought this from that nice man! Remember?" Flustered and hoping that the man will not accuse her of stealing, she holds it out for the bearded man to inspect. "Am I in trouble?"
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Monday June 6th, 2016 8:35:34 PM
Dušan offers Wilford 6 gold, "If you wouldn't mind parting with two, I rarely get more than that fired off."
At the party Dušan takes some interest in the boxes discussion, but casts Detect Magic. He turns to Hmerrin "Do you remember how the trade delegation was attacked at their first public appearance in Dirt City. I'll keep an eye out for auras if you'll watch the entrances and exits."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 d20+12=25 ; d20+7=19 ; Monday June 6th, 2016 8:54:40 PM
At the party Toston asks if anyone knows where someone can find cookbooks either visual or written in common and a Common reading tutor willing to work with a goblin.
After that errand is out of the way he mingles observing what there is to observe. (Perception : 25; Sense Motive 19)
The gnome notices the exchange between Var and the merchant wearing the pin and walks over to the merchant with the hawk pin. Toston says, "Have anything to do with sailing? I'm a fair sailor myself and would be happy to exchange some tales of the sea with a fellow salt." The monk asks and offers.
DM Kathy Monday June 6th, 2016 10:14:02 PM Toston asks around, and is able to find a merchant with a few books in pictograms. "Couldn't find a use for 'em," the man says. "Was about to sell 'em for tinder, to be honest. But I think there's a cookbook among them. Stop by tomorrow, and I'll show 'em to you."
Lornak takes the merchant aside for a private chat, and brings him to speak with Asteria. Asteria, did you bring the box with you to the party? You can have it with you if you want, but it seems more like the kind of thing you'd leave at the inn.
Either way, the merchant is intrigued. "Bought it from a man?" he asks eagerly. "What man? What is his name? What did he look like? Where did you find him? If we could find out where he got the box, we might have a clue to the identity of these thieving scum."
Dušan scans for magical auras, but doesn't find anything he can't explain.
Var speaks to the merchant with the iron pin. He's a big, boisterous man, quite freidnly-looking, with reddish brown hair and merry brown eyes. "This pin?" he says. "It's the symbol of my company, Shipwell Imports. We've recently joined the Blackbird Lake Trade Alliance. Bromley Birch is the name." He holds out a hand to shake. [OOC: So Shipwell Imports is a member of the Blackbird Lake Trade Alliance, in much the same way that the Crescent Moons Trading Company is a member of the Dirt City Merchants' Guild.]
Toston steps up at this point to ask whether the pin has anything to do with sailing. "Indeed it does," Bromley Birch replies. "Shipwell Imports was founded by a group of retired lake sailors. We plied the waters of Blackbird Lake for many years, but now we're keen to see how folks on land get on."
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) Monday June 6th, 2016 10:24:57 PM
(OOC: Sorry, thought I posted today) Wil is late and finds all the merchants interesting. "I really wanted to buy that box, he said. "...but I didn't." He refuses the payment for the other bolts.. "No worries, brother. I got it covered. You can have them."
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d20+8=12 ; Monday June 6th, 2016 10:26:55 PM
(Sorry for missing yesterday's post all, I am prepping for a month long trip and things got away from me)
Alizar noticed the man with the pin only after Var and Toston approached and started speaking to the man. He held back at first, to see how the man reacted to the mention of the pin, to see how he might play the situation. After a moment, Alizar pasted on the biggest boisterous grin he could manage, and joined the group.
"Well met!", he exclaimed as he took the man's hand and shook it vigorously. "We just arrived in the city ourselves. Seems like a place where one can find quite a tidy profit if I do say so myself! What is it that you trade in Mr. Birch? The names Alizar by the way, when you call me, you can call me Al." (Diplomacy 12)
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 Tuesday June 7th, 2016 9:22:54 AM
Var shakes hands with Mr. Burch and says somberly "Have you sent a trade caravan towards Dirt City recently?"
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Tuesday June 7th, 2016 1:40:38 PM
Mystery and intrigue abound it seems. Hmerrin is just not sure what to make of it all, so when Dusan suggests he watches the doors, the young man nods, grateful to have something to do in the midst of all this old people talking going on.
The fighter moseys over to one of the doors, deftly procuring an apple along the way, and leans against the wall, munching, and watching.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Tuesday June 7th, 2016 5:15:37 PM
Dušan keep his concentration on Detect Magic while listening the merchants questions.
(Could Dušan cast Disguise Self to appear as the "vendor"?)
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+7=16 ; Tuesday June 7th, 2016 5:55:09 PM
Lornak assures Asteria she has done nothing inappropriate. "Worry not young Asteria, we may have been duped. The man that sold you your fine Acid City souvenir may have been peddling stolen property."
"Perhaps after the meeting here we would be happy to recount where we purchased it and by whom, mr...?" (Diplomacy d20=16)
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 Tuesday June 7th, 2016 9:06:16 PM Toston is overjoyed that he may have finally found something to help the goblins.
When talking with Bromley Birch he asks, "Were all the members of your company traders or do any have privateering background? I ask because in Dirt City being a port city we have all types and I have never sailed Blackbird Lake but I would like to do that some day and am curious as to what one could expect."
DM Kathy Tuesday June 7th, 2016 10:22:55 PM Alizar steps up to meet Master Birch. "Good to meet you, Alizar!" he says, returning your hearty handshake. "Well, as our name suggests, we specialize in imports. Rare goods shipped to Acid from around Blackbird Lake--and beyond."
"Dirt City?" he says to Var. "No, we've no contacts there yet, though we hope to build some soon. That's why I'm here in fact."
He seems somewhat affronted by Toston's question. "Privateers? Oh, no, no, no, no. Honest sailors, the lot of us. Have you heard rumors to the contrary?"
Dušan continues his concentration, but hasn't seen anything suspicious yet. [OOC: Yes, you can attempt to resemble the vendor, but you'll be relying on your memory. Make a Perception check to see how well you remember the details.]
Lornak and Asteria continue talking to the merchant who lost the box. "Cader," he says in response to Lornak's question. "Zeb Cader, and very pleased to meet you." He hesitates for a moment, then continues, "Look, it's obvious that you and your companions have come along because you have...specific skills. I'd greatly appreciate it if you would look into this for me. If you can do that, I'll gladly pay this young lady back what she paid for the box...or perhaps find her something just as nice from among my wares. What do you say?"
Hmerrin moves over to prop up a wall. One of the halfling servers stops by to offer him a mug of ale and a sympathetic smile.
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d20+8=28 ; d20+5=19 ; Tuesday June 7th, 2016 11:42:25 PM
Alizar regarded the man for a moment, he certainly had a... 'presence'. "Imports eh? Well, it just so happens that we enjoy importing things! What are some of the things you have imported in the past, or, more profitably, what sort of things might my customers in Dirt City be interested in?" (Diplomacy: 28; Bluff: 19)
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 Wednesday June 8th, 2016 8:33:09 AM
"Oh..." Var says, and is about to tell the man about the bandits, but then Alizar gives the ranger a pointed look and he shuts up.
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) d20+8=9 ; d20+7=24 ; Wednesday June 8th, 2016 8:41:00 AM
Wil steps into the conversation but is interrupted by a commotion in his head. "What are you doing?" He says angrily. "I'm moving my room around," Circe says. "How do you have a room in my head?" "It's too much to explain. You have people staring at you." Wil realized he had made a fool out of himself. He apologizes, curses at the voice in his head and walks away. (Diplomacy: 9)(Perception: 24) He looks around the room and attempts to find something to do.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d20+4=11 ; Wednesday June 8th, 2016 4:08:24 PM
Dušan considers casting Disguise Self to give show what the Vendor look like, but after trying to remember, he realizes the details of the man's face have slipped from his mind. Evan with the aid Guidance he could not recall the specifics. He silently berates himself for not paying more attention and goes back to looking for suspicious auras.
(Perception d20+3+1 Guidance=11
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+7=9 ; Wednesday June 8th, 2016 5:35:53 PM
"Skills?" Lornak plays dumb. "I am but a simple scribe Mr. Cader." He says unconvincingly.(Bluff d20=9) "Asteria here is a different story." Lornak continues. "Rest assured, if the item was purchased under false pretenses I am sure she would be willing to set the record straight with the scoundrel." He looks at Asteria for a reaction.
"In the mean time, we can look into it but you will have to make arrangements with Asteria for the items safe return."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 d20+7=24 ; Wednesday June 8th, 2016 8:50:46 PM
Toston tries to get a bead on how honest Master Birch was being regarding the question of privateering. Was the man protesting a little too much? (Sense Motive : 24)
If he gets the feeling Master Birch was being honest he will ask, "Has any of your number ever been beset by bandits? Did any of your delegations ever fail to return?" and go onto explain their encounter.
Otherwise he will simply thank the man for the information and tell the rest of the party about it later "Thank you for the information glad to see that blackbird lake is safe for honest merchants"
DM Kathy Thursday June 9th, 2016 12:47:55 AM Toston gets the strong feeling that Birch is, indeed, protesting too much. And his bluster didn't quite cover his startled jump at the word "privateer."
Meanwhile, Alizar continues talking with Birch, while Var wisely maintains his silence. "We import all manner of goods," he says. "Fine elven crafts from the Culverwood; exotic woods from the Taur Isles; curiosities from Zarthmoor. We know the trade routes, you see, and many of the sailors who work them."
Wilford is preoccupied by the voices in his head. Suddenly, he hears a strange voice whisper "mad eyes mad eyes mad eyes." You're pretty sure you've never heard the voice before, and no ghostly form manifests to give you any clues.
Lornak tries to play coy, and isn't entirely successful. The merchant seems disappointed by his refusal, but not upset. "Ah, well," he says. "Perhaps I'll do some investigation on my own, now that I have an idea where to start. Before I go, however, I will need my box back, young lady."
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d4=1 ; d20+7=12 ; Thursday June 9th, 2016 10:11:25 AM
Alizar smiles at the trader. "Hmm, well that sounds like a wonderful business sir. Perhaps we can come to some sort of mutually 'profitable' trade agreement. I will leave you to think on that while I talk to my people. If you will excuse me."
Alizar excused himself from the conversation, and when Var and the others joined him away from the group of traders he looked at his companions, "Yea, that guy is definitely a pirate. Unfortunately I'm not sure my local knowledge of this area covers this particular aspect of local culture." (Knowledge: Local - 12)
She pauses for a moment, furrows her brow; "Lady...?
She is a perturbed at being treated less than a force of nature. She sternly looks from Cader to Lornak. Asteria doesn't understand the nuances of diplomacy but she does understand fairness. She takes a slight step forward and indigently shoves the box toward Cader and mouths a single word; "Trade." (Intimidate d20=14)
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 Thursday June 9th, 2016 11:56:14 AM
(OOC-my rolls have been very poor lately...)
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+7=26 ; Thursday June 9th, 2016 11:57:24 AM
Lornak does his best to defuse the interaction between Cader and Asteria. "Right then." He says nonchalantly. "The man you are looking for sold unique items from a folding stool and aggressively up sold them vocally." Lornak casually moves between Cader and Asteria. "Other than that all I can do is show you his location in the merchant quarter." Lornak looks down at the box in Asteria's hand, then to Cader and says softly. "I suggest something pretty." (Diplomacy d20=26)
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Thursday June 9th, 2016 8:35:14 PM
Hmerrin gratefully takes the proffered mug from the halfling server.
"Thanks," he says. "Hopefully, it dulls this continuous chirping in my ears. How do you put up with this babbling all night?"
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 d20+7=12 ; Thursday June 9th, 2016 9:12:54 PM
Toston asks Birch if he has heard about the captain he crewed with when he traveled to Dirt City, "Do you know a captain Jak Flinter, I crewed with him when I traveled to Dirt City but he has since deported for parts unknown."
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 d20+4=15 ; Thursday June 9th, 2016 11:33:45 PM
Var hangs in the background behind Alizar and scrutinizes the "Merchant's" words. (Sense Motive 15)
DM Kathy Friday June 10th, 2016 12:29:21 AM Wilford asks who knows someone named Mad Eyes. Bromley Birch shoots him a sidelong glance, but doesn't answer.
Toston asks Birch if he knows Jak Flinter. "Only by reputation," Birch replies easily. "He's not a lake sailor, you know, so we've never met." He gives you all a genial smile. "Well, if you'll excuse me, there are some people here that I need to speak with. It was nice meeting all of you." And he moves away.
Standing nearby, Var gets the feeling that Birch is a little agitated, but can't put his finger on what exactly is bothering him.
Alizar informs his companions that Birch is probably a pirate.
Hmerrin chats with the halfling server. "Oh, it's not so bad," she replies. "Better than dealing with drunks at my uncle's tavern, at any rate."
Asteria is a little upset at Cader's form of address. He takes a step back. "Young," he protests. "I said young, not little. Though I did say lady--and why not? You are a fierce warrior lady, but a lady nonetheless." He accepts the box. "I don't have all my goods with me," he says, "but perhaps you'll accept this as a promise." He takes a ring off his own finger and holds it out. "You can keep this, or stop by my office and trade it for something you like better." The ring is heavy, really more of a man's ring thatn a woman's, but its simple design is very pleasing to the eye. It is mostly silver, with a tiny twist of gold worked through it.
Lornak gives a brief description of the vendor. "Thank you, my friend," Cader says. "I'll see what I can find out."
The party goes on for a while, but nothing more happens of note--unless there is something more that anybody wants to do.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d20+7=17 ; Friday June 10th, 2016 6:07:47 PM
With nothing more interesting being said, Dušan begins to idly mingle, breaking into boisterous jokes whenever someone let's him. Some of them of them are even funny.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Friday June 10th, 2016 6:08:42 PM
(OOC: The above roll was a diplomacy roll d20+7=17 on his jokes and small talk.)
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Friday June 10th, 2016 6:39:14 PM
Asteria hears Cader's words and accepts his pledge with not quite as much enthusiasm as she did when she saw the wooden box but she is at least temporarily satisfied. "Shiny." She mouths as she admires the glimmer of light off the gold and silver.
She turns away, lifts her hand to the light and returns to her place near the wall. She spends the remainder of the evening deciding if the ring is worth keeping or whether or not to see what other treasures Cader may have for her.
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+7=18 ; Friday June 10th, 2016 6:39:46 PM
It vexes me that Young Asteria, as you so graciously pointed out, has been put out." Lornak says to Cader as Asteria steps away. "I shall retrace our step and see if we cannot find the culprit of our impasse. Is there a place you can be reached?"
Lornak then exchanges pleasantries with Cader and takes his leave. He meanders over to his friends to see how they have fared. "Asteria was sold stolen goods at the market." He informs them. "It seems misappropriation of items takes place here just like our beloved Dirt City. What have you discovered?"
He spends the rest of the time at the meeting taking in all that he can (Perception d20=18)
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 Saturday June 11th, 2016 11:41:56 AM
Toston makes sure he gets the necessary information for the pictogram books from the merchant selling them and makes a mental note to visit them in the morrow. The Gnome plans to buy all the pictogram books to give Derx unless any are anti-goblin.
"I'll help track down the merchant too if we can." Toston tells Lornak when he hears about the exchange later.
"Also that guy w/ the pin was totally into pirate activity...He protested too much."
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Sunday June 12th, 2016 6:51:07 PM
Hmerrin's heart sinks when he finds the box was stolen. "Oh man. I verified the guy's price and everything. What a putz."
The young man dwells on the past for about two more heartbeats, then looks up. "So, we're going out first thing tomorrow and finding Mr Box Seller, right?"
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 Sunday June 12th, 2016 9:30:17 PM
Alizar sort of fades into the back ground for the rest of the party, smiling politely when greeted or spoken too, nodding at those who pass. As things die down, Alizar approached the rest of his companions. "If there is no more business for the day, I may retire for the evening. Its been a long day."
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 Sunday June 12th, 2016 9:31:58 PM
Var continues to do his best to approximate manners, until Birch leaves & Alizar fills him in.
Var frowns. "Does this Blackbird Lake Trade Alliance know they've got pirates as members?"
DM Kathy Sunday June 12th, 2016 11:20:06 PM Lornak asks whether there is a place the merchant can be reached, and he gladly gives the address of his shop. That is also where Asteria can come if she decides to trade the ring for something else.
Dušan engages in some small talk. He finds that many of the Acid City merchants have had more goods than usual taken by bandits recently.
Lornak and Toston fill in the rest of the group on what they've discovered.
Hmerrin is eager to find the vendor who sold the box, while Var wonders aloud whether the Trade Alliance is aware that one of their newer members is less than honest.
Alizar reminds everyone that it is late, and the next item on the agenda should be a good night's sleep. Indeed, the party breaks up shortly after you are able to compare notes, and you escort your Dirt City merchants back to the Golden Bough.
The trip back to the inn is a little tense. As long-time residents of Dirt City, you are aware that coming home late at night is a good way to invite ambush. You are on alert as you walk through the quiet streets. What was that noise? Did that shadow just move? Does anybody else get the feeling we're beeing watched?
But, either your alertnes was enough to dissuade an attack, or there was never an attack planned in the first place, because you reach the inn safely and split up to go to your various rooms.
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) d20+7=20 ; d20+8=9 ; Monday June 13th, 2016 10:02:52 AM
After, what seemed like several hours Wil realizes the group is back at the Inn.. It doesn't recall anything after hearing the warning about "Mad eye" "This place seems a bit suspicious," he says. "It may be because I grew up in Dirt city and I see a conspiracy everywhere." Wil polls his mother, Cicero or anything to get information about Mad Eye.. If that doesn't work he asks the InnKeeper but the voices are to great an he looks a bit crazy. A common expression. (Perception: 20)(Diplomacy: 9)
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 Monday June 13th, 2016 1:52:32 PM
Lornak walks through the Acid City streets with his friends and clients. As he does he sifts through what he learned during his conversation with Cader. He doubts they will find the scamp that sold Asteria the ornate box when they perform their due diligence in the morning.
Lornak lays his head down. He looks up at the ceiling of the inn and harbors regret that he may not be able to fulfill the promise he made to help Cader find the scoundrel.
"Scoundrels. Plural." He says softly as he drifts off to sleep. "With thievery there are usually culprits."
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Monday June 13th, 2016 2:46:53 PM
Maybe it was just all the talk of pirates, but Dušan was on edge the entire trek back to the inn. Once there, he tries to put it out of his mind and focus on what course they could take tomorrow.
An idea occurs to him in the middle of the night, as they are often want to do. The next morning, Dušan asks the merchants if any had brought incense and ritual quality sticks or bones.
After doing his best to track down fifty gold worth of each, he suggests to the group, "I was considering using a bit of Augury to help us along today. A good 'yes or no' question could help us narrow down our search. The first that comes to mind is, 'Will we find a good trail to the merchant who sold us the box at the market today.'
"Maybe you could help me come up with another while I track down the components? Each question will use about fifty gold worth of incense and such."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 d20+12=13 ; d20+13=17 ; Monday June 13th, 2016 5:20:26 PM
Toston remains vigilant darting from one bit of cover to the other as the party escorts the merchants back at the inn.
He remains prepared to take his fair shift at watch so he can help protect from anything that may threaten the group in the dead of night. (Perception : 13, Stealth: 17)
Assuming the night was uneventful the next morning he makes plans to buy those pictogram books for Derx as long as it works into the agenda the merchants have as he doesn't want to leave them undefended.
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d20+6=22 ; Monday June 13th, 2016 6:12:47 PM
Alizar tried to keep a watchful eye as they made their way back to the inn, but it did seem as though his eyes were getting heavier and heavier with every step. (Perception: 22) Alizar could not help but feel as though he had seen things moving about in the corners of his vision, but whenever he spared a tired glance, there was nothing there. It was likely just the fatigue setting in.
"Anything left for the night?", Alizar asked as they prepared to sleep for the evening?
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Monday June 13th, 2016 6:40:55 PM
Asteria walks back to the inn on the alert. She is thankful when they arrive safely, especially after such a long and eventful day.
At the inn, the barbarian spends time admiring the ring she recently acquired, and decides that she will look at what the man has to trade for it. "Do you guys think that I can get a different box for this ring?"
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Monday June 13th, 2016 8:09:14 PM
Hmerrin shrugs at Dusan, "My vote is see what we find out tomorrow without spending more coin. Be kinda stupid of us if the answer is right there in the street. We come up empty, then maybe time to ask the Big Guys."
The group starts heading to bed, but the fighter shakes his head. "Sorry folks, I already had one too many goblins sneaking into our rooms to just crash."
Let's set a watch to check rooms and halls and such - Wil and Asteria me and Alizar Var and Dusan Lornak and Toston.
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 d20+10=21 ; Monday June 13th, 2016 10:24:13 PM
Var grunts in consent to sleeping arrangements and watch orders.
(Perception 21 while on watch)
DM Kathy Monday June 13th, 2016 11:18:00 PM
You make arrangements to guard your merchants and each other through the night--which passes uneventfully. The next morning you gather and make your plans.
[Yes, that means you've had a night's sleep. New spells can be prepared.]
Wilford asks about Mad Eyes, but nobody at the inn seems to know.
Dušan would like to cast a divination spell, and looks around for ingredients. The Dirt City merchants can get you enough materials for one casting; if you'd like to perform a second one, you'll need to find materials in the city. The merchants are of the opinion that the best place to look would be at a temple--but you're in Aisildur, and the only temples are to Ga'al.
Toston would like to find his pictogram books, and Asteria is interested in what she could get instead of the ring. Lornak wants to try to find the box vendor, and Hmerrin points out that it would be cheaper than casting a spell.
Toston and Asteria's errands shouldn't take more than an hour each, so you could do those now, and look for the vendor while you're out, or you could cast the divination first and go from there. How do you want to proceed?
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 Tuesday June 14th, 2016 11:26:26 AM
Alizar awoke the next morning feel well and rested. With new spells prepared, he looked to his companions to see what the day would hold.
"Morning everyone", he said as he descended the stairs. "What is on the itinerary today?" Alizar nodded, and offered to accompany Toston and Asteria into town if they were looking for company. "I could use to stretch my legs this morning."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 Tuesday June 14th, 2016 2:17:41 PM
"I'm game for whoever wants to join me in picking up some pictographic books for the goblin chef." Toston says.
"Are we all going to stick together or are we planning to divide and conquer?" The gnome asks.
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 Tuesday June 14th, 2016 4:06:40 PM
Lornak wakes rested even after the nights watch. He is eager to retrace his steps to track down the vendor/bandit/thief that duped the party.
"I think we should retrace out steps first before using your divination." Lornak says to Dusan. "Keep it at the ready. I believe our traditional search will prove fruitless. "
To Toston he says; "I believe we should travel close to one another, this place is an unknown."
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Tuesday June 14th, 2016 4:58:50 PM
Dušan buys the materials of the Dirt City merchants. He figures good incense and other ritual materials will eventual be useful weather or not they decide to cast the spell now.
Nodding to Hmerrin's and Lornak's advice, "If we're going to the market anyways, I'll just hold onto the materials for now."
"Just because we were not attacked last night, are we sure we were not followed." Dušan turns to Var and Lornak, "Are their any good ambush points or people around this morning with a hunter's look in their eye? I'm concerned about leaving our merchant charges after last nights revelations. Will they be at the market today as well?"
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Tuesday June 14th, 2016 7:34:58 PM
Hmerrin stretches out his upper back with a contented sigh.
He just shrugs at Dusan's question, as spotting suspicious people isn't his strong suit. He accompanies the group wherever it is they decide to go.
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Tuesday June 14th, 2016 8:45:12 PM
Asteria agrees that they should stay together. "That way we can take on the bad guys together!"
DM Kathy Tuesday June 14th, 2016 11:32:57 PM
You decide to stick together, and hold off on the divination for the moment.
So you leave the inn, and head for the merchant who has the pictogram books. Toston is able to examine them, and find two that have to do with food preparation. Neither one is a recipe book exactly, but they show the proper way to cut up and store meat, how to de-bone fish, how to remove leaves and stems from fruit, and so on. The books are small, and just 3 silver each.
This merchant has some other intersting goods as well, including a silver flute, a set of carved ivory hair-combs, a silver tea service sized for halflings, and a game set with a round leather ball and a set of wooden mallets.
When Toston's business is concluded, you go to visit Cader's shop. He greets you warmly, and offers Asteria a choice of several items to replace the ring: a golden bracelet, a crystal decanter with two tiny goblets, a round ceramic box with a lid, and an amethyst cloak-pin. "If there's something else you're interested in," Cader says, "just let me know and I'll see if I have something that will do."
So far, you have not spotted the fellow who sold you the box, but you haven't been all that close to the marketplace where you first met up with him. Perhaps that should be your next stop.
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) Wednesday June 15th, 2016 12:46:53 PM
"I was thinking about upping my skills with poisons. I would like to coat my darts to make them more effective. Not sure if there any dealer around here that have poison darts. Maybe I could visit the Catacombs. Anyone else interested?" "I wonder if that other market.. the place we ran into that guy with the box.. has some vendors with poison?"
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:18; Touch 18; FF 14] - CMD 24 d20+12=25 ; Wednesday June 15th, 2016 1:47:12 PM
Toston purchases the 2 cooking demonstration books for 3 silver a piece as well as any other picture book that would be non threatening to goblins and arranges to have the books delivered to the inn. (OOC: tell me how much I owe)
He then peruses the shop with the rest of the group. (Perception : 25)
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 d20+10=17 ; Wednesday June 15th, 2016 4:50:53 PM
(OoC: Sorry for the missed post, guys.)
"Lets swing by that market with this 'merchant' that sold us the box. I'd be interested to hear where he got it from." Var says.
Assuming the group does go to the market , Var keeps his eyes peeled for the merchant that sold them the stolen box (Perception: 17). If Var does spot him, he positions himself in such a way as to prevent him from running off.
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+9=28 ; d20+10=26 ; Wednesday June 15th, 2016 4:58:19 PM
Lornak follows the group to the first two stops but is anxious to retrace his steps though the rest of the merchant quarter. When the opportunity arises he plays it cautious in searching the area of the merchant quarter the group last saw the bandit/thief. He moves deliberately as to not draw attention to himself should he find him peddling wares. (Stealth d20=28)
If Lornak does not come across the man in person he will search the area for any evidence of any trail that might lead to the man's whereabouts. (Perception d20=26)
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 Wednesday June 15th, 2016 6:28:58 PM
Alizar kept pace with the group as that shopped, keeping an eye out for anything that looked interesting, but he really did not see anything that caught his fancy. Var suggested searching for the shady merchant who sold Asteria the stolen box. It seemed like a prudent idea. "Maybe there is some connection between the stolen box and these 'Privateers'".
Alizar ruminated on it for a moment. "I suppose if we confront the merchant outright he could get spooked and these pirates might go to ground. Is it worth sending Lornak and another of our more 'discreet' compatriots to follow this man if we find him?"
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] d20+6=12 ; Wednesday June 15th, 2016 7:22:22 PM
At Cader's shop, Asteria does ultimately decide to trade the ring for something cooler. The amethyst cloak-pin catches her eye, and she excitedly points to it like a little kid at a toy store. "That one! I'll trade!" She eagerly trades for the pin, even though she has no use for it as of yet. "I'll buy a neat cloak or something later to go with it!"
If the group decides to go all together to the market where the fake merchant last was, Asteria does her part and keeps an eye out for him.
(Perception: 12)
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Wednesday June 15th, 2016 7:25:26 PM
Hmerrin hangs in the background. More shopping. sigh.
"Time to go to find our merchant," he brightens as the group heads out. Alizar has got a point though, and Hmerrin chews on his lip. "Guess we have to see if he's there first," he mumbles.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d20+7=9 ; Wednesday June 15th, 2016 8:24:44 PM
Dušan tries to be crafty and pulls his hood up to become less conspicuous. (Stealth d20+6+1 Guidance) He almost immediately realizes that he his now the only one in the crowd who has their hood up. Feeling foolish he goes to lower his hood, but not before he stumbles over a curb he did not see, because of the lack of peripheral vision afforded by the hood.
Swearing under his breath, he looks to his companions, "Lead on. I'll follow."
DM Kathy Wednesday June 15th, 2016 10:32:23 PM Wilford wonders aloud about poisons. You might be able to find a mechant here in Acid who sells them but really, your best bet for poisons is probably back home in Dirt City. Maybe your contact Nightblade could hook you up.
Toston ends up spending 15 silver on various pictogram books.
At Cader's shop, Asteria winds up trading her ring for an amethyst cloak-pin (it's worth 75 gp if you want to list it on your character sheet).
Your specific errands done, you begin your search for the vendor who sold you the box. He's actually not that hard to find; hes near where you first encountered him yesterday, still selling an assortment of goods off of his cloth.
"Good day to you," he says. He seems nervous.
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) d20+8=14 ; d20+8=25 ; Thursday June 16th, 2016 12:19:12 PM
"I am too much of a chicken to do these poisons myself. I will just visit the Catacombs when we have a free moment." Wil approaches the seedy merchant with confidence rarely seen. Cicero may have something to do with that. "Buddy! I have a friend of a friend's cousin's birthday coming up. We are looking for something unique... maybe an ornate box?" "I believe you sold one to a friend of mine. Was hoping you could sell me another or tell me where you got it."
(Diplomacy: 14- Bluff: 25)
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 d20+7=21 ; Thursday June 16th, 2016 12:20:17 PM
Var does his best "Half-Orc bad cop" routine, scowling and idly tapping at the handle of his handaxe in it's scabbard, while the others use a more diplomatic approach to determine where the merchant got his stolen goods from (Intimidate: 21).
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:18; Touch 18; FF 14] - CMD 24 d20+2=11 ; d20+2=6 ; d20+7=15 ; Thursday June 16th, 2016 2:29:24 PM
Toston says to the merchant, "We were so impressed by that box that you sold our friend that we just had to know your name so that we could share it with our friends." (Bluff : 11)
"Any idea when you will encounter something similar?" (Sensemotive : 15)
(OOC: ignore the second d20 - mis-click)
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+7=25 ; Thursday June 16th, 2016 3:43:57 PM
Staying out of sight, Lornak creeps behind the merchant to prevent him from doing something stupid; like run away from the interrogation his companions is laying on him. He patiently listens to what the man has to say about his wares. (Sense Motive d20=25)
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d20+8=24 ; d20+5=22 ; Thursday June 16th, 2016 4:06:19 PM
Alizar followed his friends to the stall. As Wilford finished speaking, Alizar cut in, "In fact, if you feel like you could get more items of such quality, I feel as though we might be able to make it profitable for you. That is, if you have a good supplier of these wares anyhow". (Diplomacy 24; Bluff 22)
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d100=86 ; Thursday June 16th, 2016 4:11:43 PM
Dušan positions himself so his focus is on the "merchant", but as to get in the way of those questioning.
Focusing a cone the centers on the merchant, but does not invade his friends privacy, Dušan casts Detect Thoughts (Will Negate vs DC 14)
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) d20+2=13 ; Thursday June 16th, 2016 6:40:51 PM
Hmerrin doesn't trust himself to fool anybody, so doesn't approach. Instead he moves a good spot to block any escape route (or rescue route) not already covered by Lornak.
[Perception 13]
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] d20+8=26 ; Thursday June 16th, 2016 8:39:51 PM
Asteria helps Var in glaring at the merchant, even growling a bit at him. The barbarian menacingly looms behind the group, her stare promising that if he tried anything, his back would meet her axe.
(Perception: 26)
DM Kathy d20=9 ; Friday June 17th, 2016 12:27:19 AM Wilford asks the vendor if he has a box. "I have no more boxes just now," he says. "But look at what I have here! A fine game-board and pieces, just the thing to while away the evening hours."
Toston asks the man's name. "Hobson Kail, at your service," he replies. "As I told your friend here, I have no more boxes, and I'm afraid I'm not sure when I might get something similar. It was a unique item, you see."
Alizar hints at a profitable relationship, if similar items can be supplied. Hobson spreads his hands. "That particular supplier is...well, I'm never sure what I'm going to get, or when."
Those of you Sensing Motive can tell that Hobson was nervous when you first approached, but seems to be calming somewhat now.
Dušan casts Detect Thoughts, and as his teammates question the man, he can "hear" Hobson thinking: Do they know? Maybe they don't know. Stay calm.
The rest of the group set up a perimeter of sorts, and settle for looking intimidating. From the way Hobson glances around from time to time, the effect is not lost on him.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:18; Touch 18; FF 14] - CMD 24 d20+7=16 ; Friday June 17th, 2016 1:42:09 PM
"I'm just going to come out and say it." Toston begins, "We know that the box that you sold us for a song was hot. We have found the box's original owner and it has been returned."
"You say that you never know what you are going to get from that supplier or when, well seeing as the box you sold us was stolen, there is probably a good reason for it. We are trying to track down more of the stolen merchandise so we would really appreciate it if you tell us everything we know about your supplier."
(Sense Motive: 16)
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Saturday June 18th, 2016 4:58:00 PM
Dušan continues to concentrate on Detect Thoughts, hoping something more specific will rise to the surface.
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+10=29 ; Saturday June 18th, 2016 8:01:15 PM
Lornak lets the others do the talking while he looks around for any accomplices listening in to the conversation. (Perception d20=29)
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 d20+7=18 ; Sunday June 19th, 2016 6:07:34 PM
"I would encourage you to cooperate.." Var snarls (Intimidate: 18)
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] d20+8=14 ; Sunday June 19th, 2016 7:52:52 PM
Asteria leans forward and whispers to the merchant. "Run and I'll spill your guts."
DM Kathy Sunday June 19th, 2016 9:57:47 PM Toston decides to put his cards on the table. Hobson swallows, and Dušan can clearly "hear" the oh, #%&* that passes through his thoughts.
Lornak checks around for accomplices, but nobody seems to be paying your group undue attention.
Var and Asteria loom menacingly, while Wilford whispers an offer of protection.
They'll kill me, is what Dušan "hears" next, though it's unclear whether "they" means your group or his unknown supplier.
At first, Hobson denies any involvement with any thieving, but he soon cracks under the combined pressure of Toston's probing questions and the silent menace of Var and Asteria (and probably Hmerrin, too).
"I never should have agreed to it," he says miserably. "But they made it sound so easy. And the money was good. Just move a few things here and there. Special items, quick sales, nothing too involved. And then...well, before I knew it I was in too deep and couldn't get out." He looks up at you. "It's Shipwell. They're a big racket. Buncha retired pirates turned bandits. Steal stuff from merchants and sell it to other merchants. Whit and Bromley and Mad-Eyes--they're the leaders. But the others are ex-pirates, too, from what I hear."
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d20+8=15 ; Monday June 20th, 2016 11:33:09 AM
Alizar looked at his teammates, "I told you they were pirates." The elf turned to the sobbing man. "Look, if you can give us more information I am sure we can help you. We know some people who can probably help your family. It's your choice of course, you can stay here and take your chance with these pirates, all I'm saying is there are plenty of cities to sell your wares." (Diplomacy 15)
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 Monday June 20th, 2016 1:33:51 PM
"Shipwell...? bloody hell." Var spits, "How far up does this go, does the Blackbird Lake Trade Alliance know about this?" he asks Hobson.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Monday June 20th, 2016 3:49:55 PM
Dušan doesn't want to break any trust that has comrades have built up, so he remains silent and focusing on Detect Thoughts, just in case Hobson forgets to add any details.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:18; Touch 18; FF 14] - CMD 24 d20+2=20 ; Monday June 20th, 2016 5:45:31 PM
Toston says, "Relax we just want to help. It is as Alizar says, we can protect your family and you if you tell us everything you know about Shipwell and the rest of the pirates."
(Diplomacy : 20)
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:18; Touch 18; FF 14] - CMD 24 d20+2=20 ; Monday June 20th, 2016 5:45:51 PM
Toston says, "Relax we just want to help. It is as Alizar says, we can protect your family and you if you tell us everything you know about Shipwell and the rest of the pirates."
(Diplomacy : 20)
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 Monday June 20th, 2016 7:15:43 PM
Lornak clearly sees that Hobson is agitated and does not show his presence to the man as his companions glean more information from him.
He kicks himself for not seeing the treacherous nature of the "pirates" when they were mingling with them at the merchant meeting. "I'll do right by Cader because I gave my word I'd help him." Lornak thinks to himself. "But I do not think it wise to get involved in a scuffle here if our primary charge is to protect our clients." Lornak settles a spot along a hut's sidewall. "We aren't on our home turf and we wouldn't want to spread ourselves thin." Lornak exhales deeply. "I would be disappointed to pass the buck and walk though..."
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Monday June 20th, 2016 8:36:18 PM
Hmerrin glances at Lornak. "If these guys steal from merchants, our clients could be in deep doody," he notes. "We're gonna have to follow up somewhere just to make sure they ain't walking into a noose."
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] d20+2=7 ; Monday June 20th, 2016 8:46:05 PM
Asteria stares at Hobson in an attempt not to frighten him, but to see if his words have any truth to them.
(Sense Motive: 7)
DM Kathy Monday June 20th, 2016 10:06:03 PM Alizar offers Hobson some help if he'll tell you what he knows. "I don't have much more information to give," he says. "They come to me when they got something to sell. Usually Whit, but sometimes Bromley. They got a office down on Swan Street; don't know how many people are there."
Var asks whether the Trade Alliance knows. "Naw," Hobson says. "Naw, they don't know nothin'. Most of the merchants Shipwell steals from are Trade Alliance. Ffloy's liver, would they ever be mad if they knew!"
Dušan continues to concentrate, but what Hobson is thinking aligns pretty well with what he is saying.
Lornak and Hmerrin advise moving cautiously. After all, you're in a strange city, away from the Crescent Moons Trading Company and all the protections it offers.
So, what is your next move?
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) Monday June 20th, 2016 10:26:29 PM
"Maybe we should give them something to sell?" Wil says. "Anyone have anything to sell? We can pretend to be merchants from Dirt City." "We should leave this gentlemen alone so we can use him if we need later."
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) Tuesday June 21st, 2016 10:13:53 AM
Wil begins to argue quietly, with himself, then asks. "Did you say something about Mad Eye?" "Seems to me that this guy makes quite an impression on people well... I'm assuming so because a little birdy told me... but not much else. What would they be looking for so that we may find an opportunity to speak to them?"
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 Tuesday June 21st, 2016 11:45:18 AM
"Oh I'll give them something to sell," Var says to Will, "My fists!"
"And by that I mean I'm going to hit them, not actually sell them my fists."
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 Tuesday June 21st, 2016 11:47:57 AM
Alizar thought about it for a moment, Wilford's idea was intriguing. "Well, I don't really have anything that a pirate might value, but it's entirely possible someone from our delegation does, perhaps we ought to speak with them, and perhaps come to some plan to catch these scoundrels. It's certainly within their interests."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:18; Touch 18; FF 14] - CMD 24 Tuesday June 21st, 2016 2:38:43 PM
"I'm with Var on this one, we can just sit back and do nothing when we know that people are being harmed by these pirates." Toston says, "As for what pirates find valuable I don't suppose we have enough coin, gems, art or other treasure we could potentially use as bait if we are going to try to set a trap for them?"
"Also I don't suppose anyone knows a trusty cleric or sorcerer or wizard who can cast sending for us, so we could send a message to Boggs?" the gnome suggests.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Tuesday June 21st, 2016 2:57:13 PM
Dušan snickers at Var's comment hoping the Half-Orc thinks he is laughing with him, and not at the obvious remark. Dušan maintains his spell nodding his agreement with Wil and Alizar, but doubts Hobson's mind holds anything more of value.
To Toston he says, "If we're trying to let our reputation simmer down in Dirt City, maybe we should just stick to our own resources, but if you're determined I could send an animal messenger or approach the Mages Guild."
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 Tuesday June 21st, 2016 3:53:43 PM
Lornak makes sure he has the ears of only the company when he speaks. "I intend to relay the names of Hobson's suppliers to Cader immediately. I gave my word and I would prefer that matter resolved before creating a confrontation." He turns to leave and hesitates; "However, if we intend to bait these pirates out, it may be wise to enlist his assistance?"
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Tuesday June 21st, 2016 7:39:17 PM
Hmerrin's face scrunches up as he valiantly attempts to think up a cunning plan, or idea, or something.
After 15 entire seconds, he gives up.
"I'm with Lornak," he says, brightly.
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Tuesday June 21st, 2016 9:23:34 PM
"I'm with Var!" Asteria says in a not-so whispering voice. "Let's punch these bad guys!"
After a moment of thought, she also says "But we can do whatever you guys want, too."
DM Kathy Tuesday June 21st, 2016 11:46:35 PM Wilford suggests giving the pirates something to sell, and Var wittily suggests his fists.
Belatedly, Wilford thinks to ask about Mad-Eyes. "Maybe you're thinking of a different Mad-Eyes," Hobson says uncertainly. "This one's a woman. Myrta Tydes, known as Cap'n Mad-Eyes to her crew."
"As for what they're looking for--I don't think you get it. They steal stuff. They're looking for stuff they can steal. Whatever they can steal. I never heard that they was in the market for something specific."
Alizar suggests speaking to the rest of the delegation, and Toston wonders whether you should contact Boggs. Dušan offers spellcasting services if that's what you want to do.
Meanwhile, Lornak reminds the group of the promise he made to Cader, and Hmerrin backs him. Asteria is on board with Var's punching plan.
So, the group has some decisions to make. Do you contact Boggs? Do you warn the other merchants of the Blackbird Lake Trade Alliance? Do you warn the merchants from Dirt City, and/or enlist their help? Do you try to contact Shipwell with a ruse of offering them something to sell, and if so, what will your cover story be? Because you'll need something less suspicious than, "here, random stranger, sell this thing for me!" How much do you tell Cader? And what do you do with Hobson now that he's cooperated?
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d20+7=25 ; Wednesday June 22nd, 2016 8:32:41 AM
The more Alizar thought about it, the more he sort of realised that Var was on point in this case. These were pirates, not the political elite of Dirt City. "Perhaps a steady application of 'fist to face' is actually the way to go here." He tried to think for a moment if there was any reason there could be reprocussions from this. (Knowledge: Local - 25) If not, "I might actually be team 'fist to face' on this one."
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) Wednesday June 22nd, 2016 1:46:00 PM
"I say we cut off Var's fists and give them to the pirates," Wil laughs. "Say we have someone as a hostage... Is that too dark?" Wil then whispers to himself. Seems like a heated argument then returns. His face less jovial. "Uhm.. that was inappropriate and I'm sorry. You will have to excuse my multiple personalities. Pirates are a unsavory bunch. What if we become pirates and defeat them from inside their group. Fist to face is great and all that but I prefer a slower, tactical approach. I think Toston had an idea about the merchant?"
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:18; Touch 18; FF 14] - CMD 24 Wednesday June 22nd, 2016 3:16:49 PM
"I say we do send word to Boggs we will probably need his help to give protection to Hobson and his family. You know if we relocated them to Dirt City Hobson could manage our store front for us." Toston says.
"As for the other merchants I'm not sure. Can we trust the Dirt City Delegation as well as the Blackbird Lake Trade Alliance? Maybe we can trust the Dirt City Delegation since they got attacked by the pinned pirates too but I'm not sure about the locals. How far does this conspiracy go?"
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Wednesday June 22nd, 2016 9:21:30 PM
"My head hurts," Hmerrin complains.
"We tell our guys what they're walking into. That's why we're here. They're merchants. Maybe they got some sneaky merchanty way of thinking this out."
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Wednesday June 22nd, 2016 9:38:33 PM
Asteria grins at the growing support of punching the pirates, but her eyes light up at the mention of becoming pirates. "We'll get to dress up differently, and talk weirdly! Thats what pirates are like, right? Please don't tell me that they're just like you and me!"
"Anyways, I'd like to punch some people, but I'm fine if you guys wanna be stealthy. I'm just not very good at it." Asteria adds, more serious this time.
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 Wednesday June 22nd, 2016 10:09:58 PM
"I actually need them for hand-things." Var says. "We 'aught to tell our merchant friends here in town 'afore we start bustin' heads."
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Wednesday June 22nd, 2016 10:13:44 PM
"Agreed. We tell the merchants." Dušan says, "And if you want to compose a small note, I'll send it by bird."
DM Kathy Thursday June 23rd, 2016 12:30:08 AM
You reach a tentative decision--you will inform the Dirt City merchants of what is going on, and you will send word to Boggs via Dušan's animal messenger spell.
[Just a reminder: you asked Hobson whether the Blackbird Lake Trade Alliance knew anything about this, and he seemed pretty sure they did not.]
Accordingly, you make your way back to the Golden Bough inn. Most of the merchants seem to be out and about on various errands, but you do see Epria Gladstone in the common room, knitting. She smiles at you as you come in.
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 Thursday June 23rd, 2016 9:17:24 AM
"Miss Gladstone." Var says with a polite nod, "Turns out the folks from Shipwell Imports are a bunch of pirates and thieves. They've been stealin' from other merchants inside the Trade Alliance, sellin' the stolen goods for profit. So, we're gonna go bust a few heads over at Shipwell and put a stop to it, you and the other merchants aught to sit tight here 'til we're back."
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) Thursday June 23rd, 2016 11:13:03 AM
Wil steps into inn batting at invisible birds. When he realizes he looks a bit crazy he sits down and sits on his hands and watches the bird fling themselves at him. He frowns and realizes they are fake, closes his eyes to force them to go away. Once he regains his sanity, he joins the others. "We can infiltrate the pirate schemes to try to stop them." He says to the woman.
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 Thursday June 23rd, 2016 12:23:48 PM
Lornak acquiesces to the groups desire to inform their clients of the banditry because it is a prudent move. If they wish to be included in the trap the group seems eager to spring, the more the merrier.
Lornak is a little impatient when they get back to the inn. He would prefer informing Cader and let him or the proper authorities deal with it. But... "Who would deny a barbarian her right to bust some heads, am I right?"
(OOC sorry for the missing post ya'll it just got away form me...)
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d20+7=10 ; Thursday June 23rd, 2016 12:26:33 PM
Alizar shrugged as the party suggested espionage. "I am always for a little intrigue." He followed the rest of the group to the inn. As they entered the main common room, Alizar spotted Miss Gladstone and approached with the rest of the group. He smiled, and began to speak when Var cut in. Alizar stopped his words in his throat, sputtering only slightly as he looked over to the half orc, raising his eyebrow. "Right, well, Var has just about covered the basics here, and as Wil states, we can try to infiltrate the group as well. Seeing as how we are your employees, we thought it best to check in with you prior to any action as we represent your interests here, and our actions are your actions."
Alizar tried to watch the woman to see how she reacted to the news, but he got the feeling if there was anything there he would not have noticed it to begin with. (Sense Motive 10)
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:18; Touch 18; FF 14] - CMD 24 Thursday June 23rd, 2016 3:04:20 PM
Before the party leaves Hobson Toston says, "How would you like to move to Dirt City? We can set you up with a nice storefront location, it would be a huge boon to have a professional merchant on staff; you can even bring your family."
"Before we pick a fight with Shipwell are we sure that there is nothing the authorities can do to dissuade them? We aren't in Dirt City anymore...if we kick in the door could we end up in gaol again but this time without an advocate?" Toston says
"Make no mistake I'm for stopping these pirates as it is the right thing to do but if there is legal recourse mayhap that is the better option, after all we are no longer in Dirt City so the police and judicial system may be better here." Toston suggests
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Thursday June 23rd, 2016 6:00:33 PM
Dušan follows his friends back to the merchants. "I'm not opposed to picking one or a few trusted Trade Alliance, say Cader for instance, and getting their take on how to proceed. But our chief concern was your," Dirt City Merchants, "safety as that is what we were hired for."
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Thursday June 23rd, 2016 10:28:55 PM
"Yeah!" Asteria points at Lornak enthusiastically. "That guy knows what is good! Another person for the Barbarian Rights Movement! Let's smash some heads!"
"But I mean, I guess we can wait to be told what to do. Even though that's boring." Asteria says in an annoyed voice. "Hitting people is much more fun."
DM Kathy Friday June 24th, 2016 12:53:56 AM Toston offers Hobson the opportunity to relocate, but alas, Dirt City's reputation is against it. "I ain't setting foot in Dirt City," he says. "Out of the frying pan and into the fire, if you ask me. Think I'll try to barter passage across the lake, but thanks just the same."
Toston also asks about the authorities. "They'll need proof before they do anything," he warns. "And they might not do anything even then--might be they're getting paid to look the other way."
Epria Gladstone keeps knitting as she listens to your reports. "My word! You have been busy," she says. "You know, dears, we're not scheduled to be here much longer. Do you have time for an infiltration scheme?" Clack, clack, clack go her needles. "I'll leave that up to you. I will say that if there is a theft ring operating here, and if we--that is, you--were the ones to break it up, it would be of great benefit to Dirt City. The merchants would be eager to trade with us, I would think."
Lornak still wants to speak to Cader and get his opinion on the matter. Dušan is agreeable to this. Asteria is looking forward to busting heads.
To Cader next? The authorities? Something else?
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 Friday June 24th, 2016 6:15:15 PM
Lornak listens to what Epria has to say and ruminates on what would be most the beneficial course of action. The common folk of Dirt City would benefit greatly from a new trade avenues opened up with Acid City and he thinks that people here would also. "I believe we should inform the Blackbird Lake Alliance, including Cader, and suggest that we get directly involved immediately."
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 Sunday June 26th, 2016 10:00:53 AM
Alizar was temporarily distracted by the quality of the knitting that Miss Goadstone was working on. Coming back to his senses, "Well, whatever we decide, I say we get to it. Though, I still feel like when it comes to pirates, 'Direct Action' is always the best option".
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Sunday June 26th, 2016 3:52:14 PM
Dušan took the time to ponder their decision. "If Lornak said he would check back with Cader, then we should check back with Cader, but let's not spend all day doing it."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:18; Touch 18; FF 14] - CMD 24 d20+7=16 ; Sunday June 26th, 2016 4:38:20 PM
"Maybe we should speak to Calder but we need to be careful both in what we say and do. Do the pirates have the local authorities in their pocket? If not we should really enlist their aid in taking the pirates down, however if the answer is yes we need to tread lightly lest we bite off more than we can chew." Toston advises.
When they meet with Calder, Toston pays careful attention to what he has to say and looks for queues of deception (Sense Motive: 16)
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Sunday June 26th, 2016 8:27:57 PM
Hmerrin follows his comrades back to the inn, where Miss Goadstone takes their report quite without issue. The young fighter makes a mental note to stay on the lady's good side.
After that, he follows to the next place.
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:37/37 Sunday June 26th, 2016 8:58:35 PM
"Aye, let's go let Calder know, but the sooner we act the better." Var says.
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Sunday June 26th, 2016 9:08:54 PM
Although Asteria wants to bust skulls as soon as possible, she reluctantly agrees that they should talk to Calder first."Let's just get it over with."
DM Kathy Sunday June 26th, 2016 9:08:56 PM
You go back to Cader's shop to update him on your progress. He seems impressed by your work. "I appreciate you taking the time to run this down for me," he says. "Perhaps not everything they say about Dirt City is true, eh?"
You ask him about the authorities, and he sighs. "Well, to be frank, I'm not sure they're up to the challenge," he says. "If these really are ex-pirates, then a group of sellswords like you is probably better equipped to deal with them than the local constables. Though you can enlist their aid if you like." He frowns at the suggestion that they might be taking bribes. "I think that's highly unlikely," he says at last. "Anything's possible, of course, but for such a scheme to work there would have to be widespread corruption, and I just haven't seen any signs of that."
Toston senses no deception in the man.
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) Sunday June 26th, 2016 9:49:19 PM
"I'm sorry guys. I am not feeling good. Could be the voices and the visions, but I've been so behind lately." Wil apologizes to anyone that will listen. "If I can offer anything helpful, though delayed. What do we know about these pirates and how can we get an advantage. Toston, you came from the sea? Do you know of any pirate lore that may help?"
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+7=22 ; Monday June 27th, 2016 11:48:00 AM
"It has been no trouble Mr. Cader. We have been victims of this scheme as much as you and wish to see it resolved." Lornak says. "There are good people in Dirt City, they just need a reason to surface and this trade alliance would give them that reason."
He listens as the man explains the state of Acid City's constabulary.
Lornak interjects; "In that case we would graciously ask that you inform them of what you have learned here today as we act upon this information immediately." (Diplomacy d20=22)
"It has been a pleasure meeting you. Good day to you, sir." Lornak bows his head respectfully and turns to leave the shop.
As he exits he addresses the group. "Now that that's finished." He smiles at Asteria. "Lets get to work."
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 Monday June 27th, 2016 4:54:02 PM
Alizar followed the group to Cader's shop, but let Lornak talk as he seemed to be doing just fine without any intervention on Alizar's part. When that was said and done, Alizar cracked his knuckles, "Right, now for the face smashing. I'll get my healing magics ready..."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:18; Touch 18; FF 14] - CMD 24 Monday June 27th, 2016 7:06:21 PM
"I guess we could go to the authorities after we take down the pirates. If this fight is beyond them I would hate to see them get hurt when they get caught in the crossfire." Toston says.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Monday June 27th, 2016 7:59:04 PM
"We could always start with this office on Swan Street," Dušan offers, "and let Cader talk to the authorities."
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Monday June 27th, 2016 9:42:34 PM
Asteria grins like a small child. "Finally! I was wondering when we were gonna kick some butts."
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