Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Tuesday May 23rd, 2017 11:16:59 AM
"Ok, now that was intense. So what was that all about? The fire elemental and did I hear others were coming?" Wil is unaware of Toston's ploy to trick the others.
Cooling Off - DM Post Melvin Pollack Tuesday May 23rd, 2017 2:19:04 PM
The last of the team members, Var, brings out the last of the inside survivors. "Ow, ow, ow," he shouts as the fire explodes behind him, crashing through windows and filling the air throughout. The sounds of bending metal and cracking beams can be heard from the building as the fire crews attempt to savage what is left of the building.
On the streets, after a moment of quiet, pandemonium begins to break out. Most of the crowd appears to be cheering you on, but there are still pockets of mistrust or derision - and the argument between the darts and the unaffiliated appear to have started anew, albeit with police beginning to close that down.
"Ok," the elven cop said to the group. "Does somebody want to explain to me what is going on?"
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 Tuesday May 23rd, 2017 3:35:39 PM
"...I'd love to get paid..." Lornak thinks to himself absently, his lungs still burn too much to try speech. He takes in the scene when Ethani grabs him. He is not entirely ready for the onslaught of affection. If he was breathless before, he certainly is after their embrace. He is grateful that she is dizzying in her demeanor. He does not wish to speak and gladly lets her be distracted by Asteria's absence. He has to take a moment for himself. As she moves off, he slowly lowers himself to the ground and sits. His arms propped up on his knees.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d20+8=9 ; Tuesday May 23rd, 2017 4:16:40 PM
Dušan turns to the officer, but is still distracted by those needing help. "I believe it was misuse of a fire elemental. We stopped it then helped who we could" (Diplomacy d20+8=9 Natural. Not making any friends here.)
(OOC: Diplomacy d20+8=9 Total L1 4/1, L2 3/1, L3 2/1 50 Rounds Resist Energy - Fire on Lornak resist energy 10 49 Rounds Resist Energy - Fire on Hmerrin resist energy 10 48 Rounds Cat's Grace on Lornak: +4 enhancement bonus to Dexterity, adding the usual benefits to AC, Reflex saves, and other uses of the Dexterity modifier 47 Rounds Bull's Strength on Hmerrin: +4 enhancement bonus to Strength, adding the usual benefits to melee attack rolls, melee damage rolls, and other uses of the Strength modifier 46 Rounds Resist Energy - Fire on Will resist energy 10 44 Rounds Barkskin on Hmerrin +2 enhancement bonus to existing natural armor bonus 43 Rounds Spectral Hand d4=1 HP Incorporeal, improved evasion (half damage on a failed Reflex save and no damage on a successful save), AC of 36)
Hmerrin(HP 61/61 AC26/16t/20ff, CMD 21)Brkskn, Bls Str, Rst Enrgy Tuesday May 23rd, 2017 7:00:51 PM
"Well, yer honor," Hmerrin drawls in response to the elf.
"We were trying to get a bite to eat," he begins, indicating the tavern. "When all of the sudden, there's a bunch of screaming. So we run out, and get jumped by Big and Burny...." the fighter glances at Dusan "...er, I mean a fire elemental. And this building is on fire. So, we kill the fire elemental, run into the building to help whoever's there, and find Dumb and Dumber here (waving at nearest Dart and Unaffiliated) still fighting inside a burning building. Seems somebody threw a crystal and made Big and Burny show up, and they'd still be in there 'cept The Tide went in got 'em out."
Ethani (Nellie, HP 30/30, AC19,Touch:13, FF:14, CMD: 16) 3d8+5=16 ; d8=3 ; Tuesday May 23rd, 2017 8:12:35 PM
Completely relieved that the two people she loves the most in Dirt City are still alive, Ethani's professional healers eye spots Lornak's decent to the ground.
Pulling him skin tight, she places her hand firmly on his sternum. "Alemi, use your servant to chanel your healing into this hero..."
Whispering a few sacred words of healing, Ethani gently caresses Lornak's chest as she infuses him with Alemi's mercy. 18 pts returned.
= (sum(5,5,1)) + 5...replaced 1 on healing with a 3 per Woldian house rule.
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 43/51; AC: 20; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 20] Tuesday May 23rd, 2017 8:30:12 PM
Asteria gives a very grateful smile to Dusan for his healing energy, stretching out a bit and letting her messy hair out of it's ponytail. She spends a few moments to dust herself off and check herself over for injuries, as well as putting her hair back into a more secure knot. Sitting down, she takes decides to take a break from all of her butt kicking and let the others deal with the talking stuff.
He then leans over with his hands on his knees and coughs a bit more. Then he takes a seat on the cobblestones, raising his fist again and weakly crying "Woo."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:28 Touch 18; FF 24 - CMD 18 Wednesday May 24th, 2017 5:29:06 AM
"Hmerrin pretty much summed up what happened." Toston says to the officer.
"I admit that during the course of the rescue attempt I used some of my gnome magic to make it sound like there were more of those fire elementals coming to motivate people to get out. Seems like it worked."
Cooling Off - DM Post Melvin Pollack Wednesday May 24th, 2017 4:15:10 PM
With everyone out, the Tide once again found itself facing skeptical officials and a crowd in crisis. Many of the members take the time to process what has happened and gather once again as a team.
Lornak follows an embrace with Ethani with one of his own. Asteria holds off to the sidelines. Var lets himself have a small victory. Dusan and Ethani patch up some of the injured. Wil takes some time to lose it.
Dusan, Toston and Hmerrin attempt to explain what happened.
"So you guys just can't even eat dinner without someone following you?" The elven cop doesn't really like you, but he once again can't pin anything on you either.
With both groups going their own ways, the tide is once again left alone to discuss what to do next.
Hmerrin(HP 61/61 AC26/16t/20ff, CMD 21)Brkskn, Bls Str, Rst Enrgy Wednesday May 24th, 2017 6:02:06 PM
Hmerrin looks about, and sees that other than a wee bit of smoke inhalation, none of The Tide is worse for wear.
"Think they left our food alone?" he asks, without much hope.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Wednesday May 24th, 2017 8:00:59 PM
"We can check, but we might want to check with Boggs soon." Dušan suggests, "One of my patients said that elemental was summoned from a gem. More disconcerting is that there are thousands on the streets or black market. This might be something Boggs would be interested in."
Var (Tom I.) (HP:52/55 AC:17 T:13 FF:14 CMD:22) Wednesday May 24th, 2017 10:17:08 PM
Var picks himself up off the ground and dusts himself off as best he can. "...Smell like smoke an' brimstone for a bloody week after this." he mutters to himself.
"I'd suggest a pint, but someone might have the idea to sink half the city while we're out." he says flippantly.
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 d20+8=16 ; Thursday May 25th, 2017 2:06:54 AM
The warmth of Ethani's touch spreads out from the center of Lornak's chest and slowly reaches throughout his body, reviving him. The pain is his esophagus subsides and he is able to speak clearly. He feels a weight lift from his shoulders. He's not sure if it is due to Ethani's power or her pursed lips. At this point he really does not care, he allows himself to revel in her embrace. He smiles at her gently trying to waylay any concern she may have and says; "I was just taking a moment, love. Thank you."
He places his hands on her body and stands up with her slowly, keeping her close he takes everything in. He is doubly grateful that all of his companions are uninjured but is a little unnerved that the Darts and unaffiliated are in each others faces despite the chaos... He shakes his head. He wonders if there is a way to question the woman about the gems in another location and in private. He plays off the conversation about their meal to see if she picks up on it while Dusan is speaking with the cop; "Perhaps you should join us for the remainder of our dinner later?" He asks her. (Bluff d20=16)
Once that conversation comes to and end he gazes at the cop with uncertainty; "That's the sum of it, yes." Look to those idiots for answers." He says to the peace office while gesturing to the Darts and unaffiliated. He starts to peel away from Ethani only to then turn back to him; "Wait a minute, who said anything about being followed?" He accuses. "Is there something you aren't telling us?"
Lornak feels Ethani's hip against his, the pressure of his hand on her waist, the curvature of his arm around the small of her back. This awareness breaks him from the din of the chaos around him. He hears Var's flippant comment and sheds all the need be diligent. He joins his comrades and lets out a hardy laugh.
Toston says to Wil, "I think their might be something wrong with that elemental gem but I am not entirely sure. When we get enough money we might want to look into getting legitimate ones from the Catacombs instead of black market knock-offs."
Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Thursday May 25th, 2017 11:08:05 AM
"What could possibly go wrong with the knock-offs," Will says with a smile as he grabs a hold of something and eats it. "Pesky, spirits. I think my spirt problems are getting worse. Look at me.. I'm crazy." "Being followed," Will picks up on the conversation. "We are always being followed. We are like celebrities around these parts."
Cooling Off - DM Post Melvin Pollack Thursday May 25th, 2017 2:39:41 PM
In response to Lornak's accusation, the cop swallowed. "I meant without trouble following you. Bad guys in general. Hey, I'm not the one that seems hell bent on creating a civil war. You want to know if you're being watched. Yeah, by me."
As the cop moves towards the burning building, the team sees Three Bits off to the side. She seems smaller out in the open. More hunched over than you remember, and you struggle to even remember what her race is. But you know that it is her, watching you closely.
"We should be clear that I have already been to your place of work," she tells you. "Set two dwarf repairmen on fire. Had to be done. I ought to set you on fire too, but now it just seems derivative."
Ethani (Nellie, HP 30/30, AC19,Touch:13, FF:14, CMD: 16) Thursday May 25th, 2017 3:05:33 PM
Ethani smiles at Lornak. All was right with the Wold right now. Well...as much as could hold true in Dirt City, at least. She smiles suggestively at the elderly Elven cop. "Well, I know that I'm in GREAT demand, but I'm not too sure about the rest of the Tide... But it is all true, I'm sure you'll agree if you ask anyone in the Inn. We were eating a nice dinner and then got called out to deal with the awful, horrible.." Ethani shudders, recalling the elemental once more. "Anyway, the Tide dealt with it and tried to help these folks out of the inferno. Why they were fighting...and continue to fight, I couldn't tell you. Now sir, do you think it would be alright if we headed back to our dinner? I would be ever so grateful to be able to actually eat a meal without someone dying or bleeding on me."
Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+12=13 ; Thursday May 25th, 2017 4:30:27 PM
"What are you telling us," Will says, mildly threatening. (Intimidate: 13) He then aims his crossbow and steps toward her. "Are you telling me, you killed associates of ours? They had families. Who do you think you are!" "I may be tired, but not too tired to take you out. Explain!"
Orisons: Guidance x2, Virtue x2 Lv1: Summon Monster I (used), Entropic Shield(used), Divine Favor x2 - D: Touch of Darkness(used) Lv2: Summon Monster II (used) - D: Longstrider Channel energy 2d6 Shadow amulet: SM2 1/day 1 rnds (used) http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/bestiary/elemental.html
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 d20+8=9 ; Thursday May 25th, 2017 6:29:10 PM
Lornak tries to glean if he is staring at the pesky shapeshifter that has been plaguing the groups existence as of late and reaches his limit. He loses it.
"You set innocent craftsman on fire..?!" Lornak cannot help himself from seeing the irony of what Three Bits has just disclosed. He then giggles a quick "sss" sounding laugh through his teeth. "A day of flames is it?" Lornak asks as he starts to get hysterical. He laughs again, heartily. He looks down at the crossbow in Wil's hand then to Three Bits reveling in the absurdity. He laughs a third time, only this time the laugh is boisterous and big and full of belly jelly and seems like link into a series of guffaw and chortles. Lornak is rocks back and forth and slaps his leg. He is out of breath, bent over when he looks up and continues; "This is too rich..." and smiles. "Hooo," hes says as he stands erect and chuckles some more. "What a day..."
Lornak pulls Ethani close to him and continues to walk to fins his meal.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:28 Touch 18; FF 24 - CMD 18 d20+7=17 ; Thursday May 25th, 2017 8:01:22 PM
Toston says to Three Bits, "Are you serious about setting our contractors on fire and if so why? Also you might want to reconsider using fire against one such as me whose bloodline is infused with the power of flame. Explain yourself. I do not want further violence on this day but unless you are joking or have a legitimate reason for immolating our carpenters, we may have ourselves a situation. I do not want to fight you but if there was no good reason for what you did or you really didn't we may not have a choice. Please tell me you either have a sick sense of humor and are joking or a really good reason for doing what you did. Lastly, If you are joking you might want to rethink what constitutes an appropriate joke. Too soon is an understatement."
(Sense Motive: 17)
Active effects: mage armor - +4 AC = 1 hour [580/600] rounds left shield - +4 shield bonus to AC = 2 min [1/20] rounds left floating disk - 1 hour [578/600] rounds left Fire Resistance 5 [bloodline power]
Hmerrin(HP 61/61 AC26/16t/20ff, CMD 21)Brkskn, Bls Str, Rst Enrgy Thursday May 25th, 2017 9:33:20 PM
Hmerrin responds to Dusan. "One of the bodies up there had pieces of gem around him. Looked like someone chucked it at him, it broke open, and he got burned up. My guess is that elemental. Now what's this about thousands of those gems?"
And then Three Bits makes her startling announcement.
Without a word, Hmerrin draws both axes and moves purposefully to a position some 10' behind her. Should she try to run, he's going to stop her.
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 43/51; AC: 20; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 20] d20+10=11 ; Thursday May 25th, 2017 10:27:20 PM
Asteria sits where she is, waving off what Three Bits said. "Aw, knock it off. We all know you're just pulling our leg."
Var (Tom I.) (HP:52/55 AC:17 T:13 FF:14 CMD:22) d20+10=27 ; Thursday May 25th, 2017 10:36:10 PM
Var gives Three Bits a worried look. True, she was an independent operator in a notoriously dangerous city. Yes, their relationship was never anything more than brusk and businesslike. But all the same, Var wondered for a minute how much loyalty *actually costs* in Dirt City.
With the group up in arms about Three Bits, Var takes that moment to do a scan of the street around them, for any other observers (Perception: 27)
Var (Tom I.) (HP:52/55 AC:17 T:13 FF:14 CMD:22) d20+10=27 ; Thursday May 25th, 2017 10:36:12 PM
Var gives Three Bits a worried look. True, she was an independent operator in a notoriously dangerous city. Yes, their relationship was never anything more than brusk and businesslike. But all the same, Var wondered for a minute how much loyalty *actually costs* in Dirt City.
With the group up in arms about Three Bits, Var takes that moment to do a scan of the street around them, for any other observers (Perception: 27)
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Thursday May 25th, 2017 11:36:59 PM
Dušan doesn't trust himself to say anything. His opinion of the rumor monger was already declining. With the group trying to gather the validity of the statement, Dušan stares agape trying to hold back all the vitriol coming to mind and casts Guidance on Toston. (+1 to sense motive =18)
Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+12=26 ; Friday May 26th, 2017 11:16:28 AM
Will stands silently waiting for an explanation, then adds. "It seems the little information broker is trying to get our attention. I haven't trusted you since we started talking to you. I know that's harsh but it's the reality of this city we live in but, we can resolve this peacefully. Peacefully, being that the officer over here can arrest you for admitting to killing innocents." (Diplomacy: 26) He then adds, "I would really like to resolve this and rest a moment... eat a little, try to create some new bolts for this crossbow pointed at you."
Cooling Off - DM Post Melvin Pollack Friday May 26th, 2017 3:30:49 PM
Three Bits is rather taken back as The Tide surrounds her, preparing to attack.
Toston attempts to get an idea of what is going on Highlight to display spoiler: {and can see she was not as serious as many of you presumed. You can also see her eyeing the entire area - the cops, the Tide, the nearby buildings - perhaps considering how she might take at least some of you down with you. Once again, Toston recalls that he knows nothing about her, not even her race.}
"I am hurt," she gasped. "I am actually hurt. First, your dwarven friends, lovers perhaps, are quite honestly fine if a little singed and more motivated. Second, there is a small chance that I am kidding. Ten percent... Five to ten percent chance I am kidding. Maybe fifteen that I'm just some poor shopkeep who knows no reality. Please, go ahead and kill the unarmed old woman who may be crazy, and they shall forever sing songs about you, what with you threatening an old woman in daylight near those same cops - who heard you far easier than they heard me.
"And third, you better learn some manners fast. Talk to some others in this city the way you talk to me, and you will learn that fancy metal bits and parlor tricks mean nothing. Information, connections, strategy - that is the true power. And if you cannot learn to hold your tongue, it will be me or others that will take it. Tell me, do you know at all what I am? Are you sure you can defeat me without a single one of you dying? That one of my associates won't reveal all your information the second I fail to report in? I'll tell you right now, I am nothing compared to the forces you have attracted. You may wish to talk less and smile more."
Realizing the glare she had upon the team, she immediately shoved it aside with a smile. "But come come, let me tell you what hurts the most. You speak strongly of how little you trust of me, and yet here I am. Clearly I am here because I fulfilled my bargain, found the people who were looking for you, kept your location secret from your enemies. And to this, I get such a greeting? So perhaps tell me why I should give you a single shred of information. I give you a hint, if you threaten me, insult me or attack me in any way, even a little bit, you can find someone else to be your contact. Don't think I am leaping to the thought of being with you, either.
"Also, we may wish to go somewhere more private," she replies as she glares at the surrounding shops. "This is cloak country."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:28 Touch 18; FF 24 - CMD 18 Friday May 26th, 2017 5:30:57 PM
Toston says to his friends, "It appears we need to learn to take a joke. Please sheathe your weapons my friends and lets go somewhere else to discuss business with the good broker."
Toston then says to Three Bits, "What happened earlier with Wil was a misunderstanding and what happened here and now was also one. Some of us nearly died in a burning building just now so joking about setting our contractors on fire was probably not the best way to get our attention. As to why you should tell us what you found out well, payment of course. We have gold and you have information so we go somewhere less Cloaked and we can give you money and you can give us information. Apparently getting involved with this building fire gave us another piece of the puzzle in the form of black market elemental gems but we still need to know more about what is happening."
Hmerrin(HP 61/61 AC26/16t/20ff, CMD 21)Brkskn, Bls Str, Rst Enrgy Friday May 26th, 2017 5:38:14 PM
Hmerrin wordlessly puts away his axes, while mentally placing Three Bits on his list of the folks around here several cards short of a full deck.
He just stands there, and waits for Toston or somebody to decide what to do next.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Friday May 26th, 2017 6:25:46 PM
Dušan glares daggers at the woman. "You dare accuse me of manipulating you with magic while you wear that greasy smile and tell me you do us favors while speaking the worst, as our tempers still run high. You denounce me for asking for a little Guidance or adorning myself with arcane glamour that comes to me more naturally than the half truths and the trickery you use. No, I will not do business with you." Dušan takes a breath to reagin his composure, "However, I will not prevent, nor aid my friends from doing so. I think that that is much common ground we will find until you apologize for your slanders."
Ethani (Nellie, HP 30/30, AC19,Touch:13, FF:14, CMD: 16) Saturday May 27th, 2017 8:09:45 AM
Ethani listens to Three Bits with growing paranoia.
"That one of my associates won't reveal all your information the second I fail to report in? "
She's not sure how much The Bits really knows about her and Ashira, but the old bitty was right. Best to keep your enemies closer as it were.
She puts a gentle hand on Dusan and Hmerrin's shoulders. "Peace brothers. Let us at least hear her out privately..."
Ethani turns to Lornak. "Come love, let us continue our diner at wherever this nice lady suggests. I am tired and in need of food and rest. "
Var (Tom I.) (HP:52/55 AC:17 T:13 FF:14 CMD:22) Sunday May 28th, 2017 1:08:26 PM
"someone jus' tried t' drop a burning building on us. Sorry if'n I don't chortle at your jokes, Three Bits, I still got a bit'o ash in my lungs." Var says to their informant, addressing the rest of his allies, he says. "She's right tho, we aught'a make a like a tree an' get out of here."
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 43/51; AC: 20; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 20] Sunday May 28th, 2017 9:43:30 PM
Asteria stands and shrugs her shoulders, trying to relieve the tension in her back. "Told ya." She mutters to no one in particular.
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 Sunday May 28th, 2017 10:10:37 PM
Lornak's senses continue to be misaligned, he swears he heard Three Bits suggest a palaver with the group. His misgivings surrounding such a prospect are waylayed by Ethani when she suggests down time. "Oh?, So long as we enjoy ourselves my love." He walks with her oblivious of the true outcome of the meeting ahead of them.
Cooling Off - DM Post Melvin Pollack Monday May 29th, 2017 11:46:52 AM
"Ah, the bland nectar that is such lukewarm and begrudging sentiment, well from most of you. Dusan, dearie, you know that if I ever said a word to harm you, it is because I respect you so very little. I am afraid that this information is going to require the added price of my own protection. You neglected to mention that the Silvergloves were involved, thank you for that. Should have gotten on the next caravan out once I learned that one. Maybe I am insane, helping out such warm and wonderful barely acquaintances."
She shook her head. "I took the liberty of getting your food to go. Your secret hideout, which I have been to by the way, in case that wasn't clear, your secret hideout will be fine, say two hours." She looked up to see the cop glaring at her in particular. "If you excuse me, I think we should all be going."
--------------
The new location was finished, and the work was worth it. Far sleeker and more pleasing to the eye, the conference room had never seemed so inviting, save for some of the tension between the parties.
Three Bits completed speaking with Boggs, potentially sealing her own side deal. From across the way, Madri Brightside stared at them from the corner of her eye, busying herself with the office plants. At a couple of points, Madri ignored Three Bits' barbs.
Finally, Three Bits sat down and addressed you all. "Lets start at the beginning. What does this group know about the various houses and the history that brought us to this point?"
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:28 Touch 18; FF 24 - CMD 18 Monday May 29th, 2017 4:06:29 PM
"Well from what I understand when Liam Kent was elected Prince there was a 2 year period of stability and prosperity. Kent died either through assassination or natural causes. The Teeth and the Keys got their man but he failed to act when the Teeth and the Darts got into conflict and was driven out. Next the merchants guild put in their man but his own guards killed him. The next Prince was forced out when the Keys withdrew their support and so on and so forth until the Wolves and the Knives got our current Price, Argus Fexel who maintains stability with an iron fist. For the most part the common folk of dirt city suffer the most under Fexel as they have no ally. I would like us to be their ally." Toston says to Three Bits
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 d20+11=30 ; Monday May 29th, 2017 5:30:42 PM
As Lornak walks the streets of Dirt City he gently brushes up against Ethani. The occasional contact with her body slowly brings him back from the brink of hysteria. He wonders whether or not the groups new building was ever supposed to be a "secret." His paranoia always screams to keep everything abreast and he knew for a fact that he did not want his enemies to know its location, but to designate it such before it was even completed seemed an ill omen.
As he approaches Shale House(tentative) he is eager to see the progress in its construction. His awareness, even weighted by the fatigue of the events of day, seems surprisingly very keen. He is concerned for his contractors after a wisp of memory tells him that they could be in danger. As his body aches, he mind yearns for answers. (Perception d20=30)
Upon entering the structure he gently peels away from Ethani and holds the door open for her and anyone else that is near. He spies The Buttering Ram. As he descends the floors to the third floor receiving room he tries to get his head in the game again. He is very surprised to see Boggs sitting at the round table...
When the conversation starts, he only has one thing to contribute. "We have no knowledge of the Silvergloves." He says, evenly.
Var (Tom I.) (HP:52/55 AC:17 T:13 FF:14 CMD:22) Monday May 29th, 2017 8:28:34 PM
At the new CMTC offices Var sheepishly ducks his head as they pass Madri, suddenly aware of the soot and ash that he's still tracking off his boots as they enter the new, clean rooms.
Not being a Dirt City native, nor a student of history, Var recounts what he can of Dirt City politics since he's been present. "The Knives an' the Darts were at each other's throats during that whole business with the 'House of Silver'. So I guess they ain't getting along that well. Then, when those Merfolk attacked, the Knives managed to do drek-all for the City, an' after that the House of Wolves started t' get real bold in their thuggery."
Hmerrin(HP 61/61 AC26/16t/20ff, CMD 21)Brkskn, Bls Str, Rst Enrgy Monday May 29th, 2017 8:30:25 PM
Hmerrin doesn't know squat about the houses or history or the Silvergloves, and decides to stick with his tactic of keeping quiet and listening.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Monday May 29th, 2017 10:00:57 PM
"If the cost is her protection it may be too high," Dušan mutters, "Should just step aside and let Dirt City take care of it's own for once. I've got no secrets that would turn my life upside down, and I'd gamble that Boggs has the resources to bury her. He's always said that she was a commoner of her trade. May be time to trade up."
Dušan follows the group back to their HQ. As interested as he is in seeing more of the work completed, he is more disgusted with the idea working with Three Bits. Instead he enters Tombo's and finds a seat by a window in the front. He orders an ale and casts detect magic out the window looking for any auras heading towards them or lingering in gangways for too long, ignoring the ones that are just passing by.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Tuesday May 30th, 2017 8:45:45 PM
Dušan leans back and enjoys his beer with his attention out the window. He wonders if his morals are getting in the way of his duty, but convinces himself his friends can handle this one with out him. A lookout was always good to have in any case. After he realized he wasn't convincing himself he decided if he was summoned, he would swallow his pride and join his team.
Thinking he saw something he sits up and peers out the window. Satisfied that it was just his imagination he leans back and enjoys another long pull from his mug. He would join them... but only if he was summoned.
Ethani (Nellie, HP 30/30, AC19,Touch:13, FF:14, CMD: 16) Tuesday May 30th, 2017 9:49:52 PM
Ethan sighs. More history about Dirt City is about the last thing she wants to hear about right now. "Before we get too involved in this, I would like to state my request to purchase sine information of my own about the Undersea Kingdom and Duet City's involvement with the Sahuagin.
Asteria (sub Nellie) Tuesday May 30th, 2017 9:51:57 PM
The fun over, Asteria finger combs her smoke scented hair. Yawning rather loudly, she waits for the conversation to turn interesting again.
Var (Tom I.) (HP:52/55 AC:17 T:13 FF:14 CMD:22) Tuesday May 30th, 2017 10:40:37 PM
Var frowns at Dusan. Not that the man had ever been 'cheerful', but Var wasn't sure that he was always so dour. Everyone seemed to be on edge lately.
Cooling Off - DM Post Melvin Pollack Tuesday May 30th, 2017 11:04:34 PM
Sorry something came up, posting tomorrow
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:28 Touch 18; FF 24 - CMD 18 Tuesday May 30th, 2017 11:23:05 PM
Toston waits for further information.
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 Wednesday May 31st, 2017 12:04:09 AM
Lornak sits back in his chair and waits to see what either Boggs or Three Bits has to say. He's disconcerted at how many machinations are currently at play than the group seems to be aware of. He loves being in the dark literally but hates being in the dark figuratively.
Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Wednesday May 31st, 2017 11:29:33 AM
Wil folds his arms, throughly disgusted with Three Bits and the brokers antics, but he keeps any opinions to himself. He waits for instructions on the next move. His belly grumbles as he recalls the scorpion meal from many months ago. "Mmmm.. that was good," a familiar voice pipes up. "Cicero?" "How was your vacation from me?" Will turns away from the others. "What are you doing back?" He says outwardly to himself, while attempting to disguise his conversation. "You know I never left..."
Cooling Off - DM Post Melvin Pollack Wednesday May 31st, 2017 2:40:17 PM
Dusan chooses instead to visit Tombo's for a drink and a grousing session of how they should murder another being and gamble that Boggs can find someone else. Ethics aside, the fact that nobody else has been contacted does not occur to him. He looks out for potential threats, but also for someone to calm him down and bring him back. Everyone else instead goes to Three Bits, though Var does look back.
"Pardon me, child," an old voice sounds behind him as he looks out the window. She is a halfling of white hair, barely stable on her cane, dressed in tatters. Dusan detects no magic auras, but he can't help feeling some measure of familiarity. "I couldn't help but notice your distress. Perhaps if you bought an old girl a cup of coffee and let her sit a spell, she might be a bit of company you need?"
---------------
Lornak and Ethani take a quick tour of the new building and share a moment. Var tries not to track soot into the new offices, but Madri is quite inviting.
Toston gives a quick overview of the recent history of Dirt City, and Var gives an overview of some of the recent attacks. "Yes, yes, but history is nothing without context. Who are these houses, and what drives them so? Why does the common folk have no ally from any of the houses? A house is nothing without its people, and events teach us who those people are.
"Oh, and do be careful about trying to be an ally of the commoner. You may be surprised of who the common folk turn out to be, or who they may turn to. Sometimes our greatest villains are the ones that think they will be heroes. Wouldn't you agree, Boggs?"
"I'm not paying you to gab about," Boggs grumps. Lornak also attempts to prompt them back towards the silvergloves. Hmerrin, Wil and Asteria attempt to stay out of it.
Ethani, however, makes a side request to purchase some information of her own regarding the Undersea Kingdom and Dirt City's involvement with the Sahuagin. At that, Three Bits begins to smile. "Perhaps later, I may consider a fair trade for such information. For now, I will limit my information to what is relevant to the one that follows you."
Three Bits sits back, sitting her water, thinking about what she is going to say. "True power, staying power, does not come with the sword or the spell. The next day comes, and then the next, and how do you keep your power then? More importantly, power is a means to an end.
"Which brings me to my payment before I go any further. Each one of you has to tell me, honestly, why you pursue power. what do you hope it brings you?"
With that done, she goes back to talking. "Most people curry power for one purpose, to be right. To shape the world in their image, whatever image that may be. And the houses of dirt city had one image, to produce a world where we would no longer be judged mere criminals. Where we would finally have the freedom to go about our business and lead our lives.
"But the houses quarreled, for what is freedom, and for who? The six houses fight and connive because they all have a vision of this city. Everyone wants to rule. Everyone disagrees as to what that means, of what force is required, of what freedoms we should have and who shall have it? And how is this world shaped, perhaps by reaching out to other peoples, like the Sahaugin, hhm?
"As you said, Toston, the vaccuum of power produced turmoil as the houses fought and made deals. As of now, the Knives and the Wolves are in power, through the threat of force, through the power of fear. But they got there tribe vs tribe, power vs people, the murderer vs the con man. What you see out there, what almost killed you, is man against man, the turmoil about to erupt."
She pauses to let you consider what was discussed.
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 Wednesday May 31st, 2017 3:21:23 PM
Lornak gets his head into the game. Three Bits has a flair for the setup but still hasn't given the group a straight answer. This bothers Lornak. He is tired and his body aches and his patience grows thin. His demeanor becomes dark.
From under his hood Lornak gives the woman her payment, if not to learn more but to have it and her done with; "I grew up always having to look over my shoulder, sometimes even from family. I hate this feeling more than anything in life. I know its possible to live without it." Lornak looks around at his comrades then focuses very intently on Three Bits; "I pursue power to protect myself from this feeling and use it to defend those who cannot protect themselves from it on their own."
Lornak sits back in his chair and crosses his arms upon his chest. He waits for everyone to have their say. When Three Bits speaks about man against man, Lornak speaks again; "So let me get this straight, You are saying that a House called in the Sahaugin to pit other house members and the general population against each other? To ruffle everyone feathers so to speak?"
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Wednesday May 31st, 2017 4:33:36 PM
Dušan sits up with a start, narrowly avoiding sloshing his ale onto his tunic. He sets his ale down and turns to the woman chiding himself for being startled by this woman. As he assess this woman, his shock turns to suspicion and then rapidly disappointment in himself for thinking such. Has the past few days been so trying that he sees assassins in old ladies?
Dušan decides to welcome, this lady. Perhaps he needed to pour back a little into the river of karma. "Of course. Please have a seat," Dušan says and waves for service, "I think company might be just what I need."
Hmerrin(HP 61/61 AC26/16t/20ff, CMD 21)Brkskn, Bls Str, Rst Enrgy Wednesday May 31st, 2017 7:08:28 PM
Hmerrin blinks. "Power? I don't pursue power. I pursue adventure! There's a whole Wold out there just waiting to be explored!"
The young man grins, warming to his tale. "Back in Merrydale, there was a group of adventurers, The Swords of Light. Heroes all. They'd traveled to the Floating City, Cinnamon Valley, Koshe Marr! Been nearly everywhere and seen nearly everything and came back to tell the tale! When they split up, Bralin Stoneminder stayed in our village. Anywhere in the Valley that needed help, he helped. Nothing could stop him...."
Hmerrin trails off, thinking hard.
"Whaddya know. I do pursue power."
The man tilts his head, working his own theory out as he verbalizes it.
"I want to be able to help anyone who needs help, without getting tricked in the process."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:28 Touch 18; FF 24 - CMD 18 Wednesday May 31st, 2017 10:21:33 PM
Toston says, "As a young gnomeling my grandfather Topip Warmorn would tell me stories about Alemi, Domi and Metallic Dragons while he did his carvings. I grew up in the Scab a member of a small traveling merchant family. My father made hats, my mother was a seamstress and as I said my grandfather made carvings. I would spend hours at a time listening to the stories of beings so heroic they would transcend mortality and become gods. Two best friends, a mage and a monk who would journey across the Wold and go on to create metallic dragons and taurs. My grandfather, rest his soul gave me a gift the day I reached my majority in the form of training under Master Reginald B. Faust, learning the discipline of the martial arts and following in the footsteps of Domi and so I begun my adventuring career as a monk and I learned to sail because my master's dojo was aboard a sailing vessel. Eventually I was released from his service because my path involved more than just training to fight pirates. I ended up taking a crew gig that landed me in Dirt City and it was here that I met the rest of the Tide. Each of us ended up doing something individually that involved risking something for someone else and Boggs noticed and assembled us as a team. Over the course of our work with the Tide we have stopped zombies from plaguing the grubbers, exposed a fake haunting used to cover real robberies, took down the would-be House of Silver, stopped one of the ways the Sahuagin were getting arms from Dirt City and rescued some people from a fire. Along the way I have realized part of my potential as not only was I enthralled with stories of dragons but I possess magic fueled by the blood of gold dragons like my great great grandmother before me. As I've gained experience over the course of my adventures I have learned much about my draconic heritage and I am pursuing a discipline that will allow me to unlock both my potential and new abilities as I learn. I am a mage and a martial artist, I seek to walk in the foot steps of both Domi and Alemi and like Alemi I have a connection to Gold Dragons. All this I do in the hopes of being able to truly help people and make the Wold a better place for everyone."
"Plen'y o' Orc tribes out on the Izen plains that think the same way as these Knives and Wolves. Was under the impression that 'polite society' was better'n them." Var spits and seems lost in thought for a moment.
"I don't want power, at least not any of the kind you seem t' be talking about. I'm not lookin' to lead armies or 'ave tea with kings... But this city, 'Bits, this city's freedom is built on the backs of it's poorest, weakest citizens. I only need enuf power t' knock down the Houses, and keep 'em down while the grubbers an' the rest of the city's folk can pick themselves up and get t' fightin' for themselves."
Ethani (Nellie, HP 30/30, AC19,Touch:13, FF:14, CMD: 16)] Thursday June 1st, 2017 7:03:18 AM
Ethan sighs as she listens to Three Bits ignore her request. Maybe this wasn't the town for her after all. I mean the were plenty of places she could be where she would actually make a difference. Here...well here it seemed like doing the right thing here just got you punished.
Ethan listens intently to the others responses before she speaks up. It felt good to know that this group she accidentally found herself with was good at heart. She looks up at Three Bits and gives the briefest of shakes. "Power is an abstract concept. It is arbitrary. You have already told me that you feel knowledge is power. I will not give you more power over me by giving you more knowledge. I do not seek power. I seek freedom and healing for those that truly need it. Alemi wishes for me too spread both. It would appear from what I have heard tonight that neither of these are valued in this god forsaken City of yours. And that, to me, is shameful."
Ethani lets the last sentence linger. She is already afraid they have told the rumor monger too much.
Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+12=21 ; Thursday June 1st, 2017 10:46:59 AM
"Have you experience real disappointment, Three Bits? Have you had your world taken from you? All the power in the world is temporary. I was once a child of an officer in the Dart's House. My father had power and influence till a sorcerer took it away and destroyed everything." "I have seen corruption at it's finest and I have seen the poor struggling. Give us something useful so we can assist the city. I will no longer pay for these games with you. It's become old and cumbersome." (Diplomacy: 21) He then adds to the group, "It would make sense that someone is trying to shake up the apple cart. Someone wants to overthrow the current arrangement in Dirt City. So the question would be what does the House of Darts have to do with this? Who were the others involved. Mr. Boggs, do you know who was involved in the fight?"
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 43/51; AC: 20; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 20] Thursday June 1st, 2017 12:05:03 PM
Looking over from her very important activity of messing with her hair, a large grin goes over Asteria's face.
"Power? I grew up with a barbarian tribe, and my family was the tribe. All of the kids were my siblings, and I treated them as such! But when some bully decided to mess with my brother, well, I just couldn't let that stand! I was kicked out because of that, but there's no way I'm going to let such a small thing stand in my way! I kept doing what I was doing, and I kept fighting for what was right! I want to be able to protect my new family, the Tide. I want to be able to protect the innocent, people who can't save themselves. And, I want to be able to fight on the side of what is good, to keep bad guys in their place!"
Cooling Off - DM Post Melvin Pollack d20+12=18 ; Thursday June 1st, 2017 9:24:29 PM
Everyone except the absent Dusan provide their answers. Some fight against the idea that they seek power, while others own up to it. The question of what power even is gets raised. The need to protect others comes up a lot, as does the need to protect the family or the tribe, to avoid being tricked, and maybe to get some fame or a chance to see the world or serve gods. Wil reminds the crowd that all power is temporary, to Three Bits nods.
Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Three Bits mostly snarks when The Tide talks of family or helping others, but she can't keep her cool when Wil asks if she's ever lost everything, nor when Asteria talks of being kicked out.}
"Such noble sentiments, which will allow you to be twisted around. You may not always be able to do the noble thing or say the noble speech or avoid the ignoble partner. The cost of wanting to help this citizenry may be in blood. The cost of survival may be in souls. But perhaps if you remain honest to yourselves, even to your darkest sides... But also, you must now play the game. Like it or not, you are a house unto yourself. And the other houses begin to play
"And that is all I will say, for some of you have yet to provide payment."
After a while, Marni shifts in her chair. "I'm just trying to help out an old friend and make some money at the end of the day. I know you think its power to be left alone, but... I'm really just trying to survive and help out is all..."
"And then there is one," Three Bits turned to Boggs, who clearly wasn't expecting this. "Everyone else in this room has stepped up. These people have all agreed to die for you, and you can't even tell them what you are dying for?"
Boggs finally began to speak. "I seek the power to make right what went wrong under my watch. I had been involved in the events that had been laid out, but I couldn't protect this city from the assassinations. As you know when you sought me out and trained me to..."
"I seek nothing more than the power of money and to be left alone," Three Bits interrupted. "The price has been paid. Let us move on."
--------------
Lornak speaks again; "So let me get this straight, You are saying that a House called in the Sahaugin to pit other house members and the general population against each other? To ruffle everyone feathers so to speak?"
Three Bits let out a loud sigh. "How are you still not getting this? It was the very history of revolution and continuous changes in leadership that pit everyone against each other. Everyone wants power. Even the ones that only seek to help others, even if they can agree on what that is. Every house organized around a different concept, a different flag, a different strategy to power. The knives finally found a solution, to grind the city under its boot. But you need a reason to do so, tomorrow....
"Which is why, I suspect, the Knives CONTINUE to sell to the Sahaugin. Not the Dunkels, and not in the past. Always good to have allies, whether you agree with them or not.
"Beware of what you do with this information. Succumb and allow the innocent to get hurt but not yourselves. Or engage in this war and watch from your graves another monarch arise, another war engage. I won't waste my time thinking you smart enough to take the first option. But there is a third one. Play the game. Stay your sword and swing your pen. Learn your houses, and the families that make them up, and the shifting alliances and power brokers. Like how the Keys are in opposition to the Knives.
"Which finally, finally, brings me to the Silvergloves..."
---------------
Dusan welcomes the lady and orders her a drink. "A thousand blessings upon you," she replies to Dusan's charity.
After some light chatter, Dusan begins to feel more calm than he has in a while. The old woman stirs her drink and finally asks if Dusan would like to talk about what is on his mind.
"Though I could take a guess, what with the Knives in charge and the fights breaking out. Sigh, really could use a hero in this city." She stirs absentmindedly. "Wonder what it would take, real change."
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 d20+8=19 ; Thursday June 1st, 2017 10:25:30 PM
Dire words come out of Three Bits mouth and Lornak can almost taste why she says them... It is that she condones The Tide making nice with morally questionable allies? Or perhaps that that circumstance is simply unavoidable given the powers at play around them?
Lornaks is confused when Three Bits says that the price has not been paid. He begins to say something; "But Dusa..." He is cut off. He furrows his brow in surprise and confusion when Marni and Boggs speak up. For this woman to have so much influence... He thinks to himself. It is disconcerting to him that Boggs, a man he trusts might owe his allegiance to her, and by extension his own...
Lornak cannot bring himself to say anything at the moment.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:28 Touch 18; FF 24 - CMD 18 Thursday June 1st, 2017 11:26:29 PM
Toston says to Three Bits, "You trained Boggs? He is YOUR pupil? How can the 2 of you be so different if you hand picked him?"
Toston says to Boggs, "Are you in any way affiliated with Liam Kent? Do you feel responsible for his death? Why?"
To the assembled group he says, "Okay so the Knives are behind the trade with the Sahuagin and are opposed by the Keys. Silver gloves and the copper chokers are after us. For the sake of argument can we leverage the information we have gained about the Knives and the Sahuagin to take the Knives down a peg? I mean think about it, the Knives are responsible for the merfolk attack and their actions risk embroiling Dirt City in an all out war with the sea folk. If we are a House can we simultaneously raise our profile while lowering the Knives. Furthermore if it is the Knives and the Wolves keeping Fexel in power is it possible to use the Knives trade with the Sahuagin to drive a wedge between them and the Wolves and get a new Prince of Thieves?"
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Thursday June 1st, 2017 11:33:47 PM
Dušan considers the woman's comments. He didn't have much on his mind. He was mostly running on indignation and pride. Now that he's had chance to calm down and consider the recent events, he realizes he hasn't had a chance to have much of a mind for anything. "It feels like I've mostly been reacting to all that's been going on," he says, "Either in the wrong place at the right time or the right place at the wrong time. I like to think I'm doing my part to help, but it does feel like no good deed goes unpunished at times. I'm not convinced real change is possible, but I'd love to find a way to help the little people help themselves."
Var watches the exchange between Three Bits and Boggs and absent-mindedly scratches at the stubble on his chin.
Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Friday June 2nd, 2017 1:41:52 PM
"We can drive the wedge but we don't want to fell the entire organization. Can you imagine the chaos, if we were to cause one of the houses to fall completely? If the Knives are trying to plant doubt with lies then knowledge is the only thing we have as a weapon. We need to make it known. We should be investigating the Knives. Finding evidence of these accusation."
Cooling Off - DM Post Melvin Pollack Sunday June 4th, 2017 12:02:24 PM
Lornak begins to understand that they may need to make questionable allies. "That is something I condone and find necessary. But it can be a difficult balance, and that alliance may end at a moment of their choosing or yours. At any event, know that other houses are doing the same thing - and they will want to know if you are their temporary friend or foe."
Lornak and Toston begin to ask questions about what happened, and what they mean by training. Boggs sort of shrugs, admitting that he isn't proud of everything that has happened. Three Bits somehow downplays and takes credit for her actions, focusing on her teachings of how to play this game and her insistence in her own self regard. Var keeps his thoughts to himself as he tries to get a handle on Three Bits.
Toston begins to think about how to play the games, while Wilford wants to gather more evidence. Three Bits and Boggs leave the decision up to The Tide.
"Not choke collars," Three Bits interjects. "Collar. Singular. But here's where it gets tricky....
"As you've intuited, the houses are jockeying for balance. Attack the knives, and the Keys get stronger. But houses are just teams. It's the leaders, the families, that drive alliances and priorities. And the Silvergloves are the most prominent family in House Keys that you never heard of. Arcanes, rogues... I think there's some monk hybrid running around up north. Point is, they are a Halfling family of quite prominence and power, a founding family dedicated to doing whatever it takes to regain their ruling strength.
"And now, it would appear that they are involved - this silver glove in a circle is their crest. Never heard of them using choke collars as a symbol, though, and members don't typically leave to join other groups. At any rate, I believe that one of them has been tracking you, and she is probably the same one hitting the Knives.
"Do not be taken in by shared goals or talk of helping others. Other families might just attack you. They want to own you. They will tell you what they want you to hear and wrap themselves in goodness but you trust them at your peril. And yet, they are not a family to be rebuffed or disrespected. Money, connections, information... you do not yet know how much more powerful such items can be. How useless your swords may become. If she ever does contact you again, and I guarantee that she will, you will have to tread lightly."
As the conversation begins to wind down, you begin to think about what you have heard. Boggs suggests that you might want to consider ways to help lower the tension between houses. Members of the Tide have discussed possible other ideas. Boggs asks what the group will be doing over the next few days.
-------------
Dusan, calming down, begins to realize that his quarrel is not with Three Bits, but himself. "It feels like I've mostly been reacting to all that's been going on," he says, "Either in the wrong place at the right time or the right place at the wrong time. I like to think I'm doing my part to help, but it does feel like no good deed goes unpunished at times. I'm not convinced real change is possible, but I'd love to find a way to help the little people help themselves."
"Oh, it does give me hope to hear that," the old Halfling woman replies. "I personally believe that real change is indeed possible and that us little people can indeed rise up. I even believe that there are others who will join you, if you know where to look."
As the conversation winds, the Halfing thanks Dusan for the company and hopes that luck turns for him.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Sunday June 4th, 2017 11:21:37 PM
"Happy to to have the company. I'm sorry, I didn't catch your name?"
Dušan awaits an answer while he orders another ale and awaits his companions to finish their business.
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 Sunday June 4th, 2017 11:45:15 PM
Lornak is reluctant to talk strategy while Three Bits is in the room. Or Boggs for that matter... He thinks to himself. Although the suggestion to lower the tensions between houses is a good one. "Isn't that what we've been trying to do?" Lornak asks rhetorically, confident that that has been his intention for the past few days...
He does not seek an answer. He wants desperately to grill Boggs but sits there brooding, trying not to let his anger get to him. He would rather be downstairs with Dusan at the moment, or on the plains...
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:28 Touch 18; FF 24 - CMD 18 Sunday June 4th, 2017 11:50:48 PM
"It would appear," Toston says, "that we may find ourselves in alliances of convenience with any of the various houses from time to time. Therefore whenever we are forced to work with a particular house in a marriage of convenience we should set hard boundaries with respect to the duration and scope of the alliance. Furthermore, it would appear that this Silvergloves family and whoever it is with the choker has been playing us against the Knives. While the Knives are behind the weapon trade to the Sahuagin and are opposed by Silvergloves and the Keys it sounds like we need to find a way to put an end to that and lower tensions all around. I'm not quite sure IF we should be helping Silvergloves against the Knives. Maybe we should find a way to quietly stop the weapons trade and then try to broker a truce between the houses so that no one really wins or loses at this time."
The gnome continues to think out loud about how best to play the hand they've been dealt.
Cooling Off - DM Post Melvin Pollack Monday June 5th, 2017 3:26:47 PM
"Just as I didn't catch yours," the Halfling woman reminds him. "As it used to be, as it should be. Just two old friends sharing a drink and passing by.
"Oh, don't give me that look. I'm just a poor beggar remembering the old days when people actually helped people. Surely you can leave such a gal with just a moment to live in." She stood up with a twinkle in her eye. "Surely there's a part of you that remembers when you could enjoy a good mystery."
And with that, she was gone. Dusan can't remember seeing her leave. He can remember her leaving him calm.
Does Dusan join his other friends, or does he wait for them to come?
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Monday June 5th, 2017 6:26:26 PM
Dušan weighs his options and finally decides to rejoin his companions, but this was his turf and he was not going to bow to Three Bits here. Dušan casts Guidance and Touch of Glory on himself as he grabs his beer, settles his tab and heads up to the meeting room.
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 Monday June 5th, 2017 7:37:19 PM
"Well I for one am going to get some rest." Lornak says evenly, revealing nothing about what he's thinking. "The last couple days have very trying and I am pushed to my limit." He shifts in his seat. "I will look in on our contractors..." He steals a glance at Three Bits as she exits. "...to make they are unharmed and taken care of. After that I have a mind to take in our new building."
Hmerrin(HP 61/61 AC26/16t/20ff, CMD 21)Brkskn, Bls Str, Rst Enrgy Monday June 5th, 2017 8:38:15 PM
Hmerrin pinches the bridge of his nose between his thumb and fingers.
"Head hurts even more. Work with the Houses, but not for them. Help the needy, but don't look like you're helping them."
"Might be that we need to eat a little crow," Var says on the way back to the house "try an' smooth things over with the Wolves while we sort this out."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:28 Touch 18; FF 24 - CMD 18 Monday June 5th, 2017 11:22:17 PM
Toston waits for any other information to surface before deciding to turn in with the rest if nothing is forthcoming.
Days Off - DM Post Melvin Pollack Tuesday June 6th, 2017 10:45:49 AM
Three Bits took her leave with only a handful of biting remarks, and the rest of you discuss what to do.
Boggs sits there thinking about how to explain the situation. "I don't think I've ever talked about it, but I do have things in my past to atone for. And though she won't admit it or will insist she somehow profits, Three Bits was there when I needed her. Just like Three Bits was here now when you needed her.
"I know it can be frustrating, to not have heroes and villains, us and them, oppressors and downtrodden. That's how I used to think as well. Sometimes people just do the right things for the wrong reasons or the wrong things for the right reasons. Sometimes the villain has emotions. Sometimes hell really is paved with good intentions. And sometimes... people just do the best they can, not trying to be either.
"Someday, I will tell you what I am atoning for. Today is not that day, so I ask now only that you give me your trust, even though I have yet to earn it."
Lornak asks about lowering the tensions between houses. "While rushing in to save the day or provide the truth can help, there are other methods. A simple act of charity or mediation. A simple return to some of your contacts just to see how they are doing. A public event to call for unity. Or you may try to keep doing what you have been doing.
"Or... you may decide unity is overrated. Search for the better houses and better families, and get some allies. Or decide that we will be forever against all the houses. You know many of the political currents, so I will trust you to do your thing unless something comes up."
Toston grasps that there are upsides and downsides to helping the keys against the knives, authoritarian weapon sellers as they might be. He considers that they might need to broker a truce instead. Hmerrin decides that these political games and nuanced alliances make his head hurt. Wil waits for a decision that does not come. Var wonders if maybe they should reach out to the Wolves to keep them from carrying out attacks on them. (House Teeth - the guys on the bridge - are another possibility.)
Dusan enters the meeting room prepared to confront Three Bits, but she is already gone back to her shop.
Finally, the decision is made. They will sleep on it, and decide what to do in the morning.
Days Off (OOC) - DM Post Melvin Pollack Tuesday June 6th, 2017 10:51:03 AM
There seems to be some confusion as to what is going on. With the houses accusing each other and you for the rising tensions, and with the city still with a lot of downtrodden, I am looking to you to decide what your next courses of action are for a few days.
There are no wrong answers or things you must do, and I will roleplay basically any of it, including party splits. Just give an overview of the plan and a few appropriate skill checks. I listed a few ideas above.
Or, if you would prefer, I could simply initiate the next module. I just wanted to give the group a chance to show what they do when they aren't following orders or chasing the latest trouble spot.
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 d20+11=31 ; d20+11=15 ; Tuesday June 6th, 2017 4:22:26 PM
Lornak leaves the conversation behind him as he seeks out the contractors. He takes a moment to ask Ethani to join him so if they are indeed suffering from burns that she can heal them.
Once thais is complete he wonders the floors and rooms looking to see if everything the contractors have done has met the groups expectations(see email for floorplan). (Perception d20=31, Natural 20, 15 for confirmation.)
Eventually he wanders out onto the balcony and looks out over the city, careful not to disturb anything that may be unfinished. He once saw Dirt City as a haven for himself but after this night his perception has changed. Back at Marsh House he stumbles into his room and flops onto his bed. His body feels as if he crawled the whole distance. "I need a holiday..." he says as he passes out.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Tuesday June 6th, 2017 9:04:28 PM
Entering the room, Dušan sees that Three Bits has already left. Prepared for at least a verbal lashing, he felt a weight come off his shoulders, "I see Three Bits has finished. I hate to say I missed her... So I won't."
Dušan takes a seat, "So what's the next order of business? Did we learn anything crucial? If there's no wars or fires to put out, maybe we could head out and help with rebuilding and restoration."
"Maybe just the chat I had with the nicest Halfling lady, but I think I would like to just do some honest good that directly helps commoner. Might be nice to have the public see us do something good besides fighting."
Ethani (Nellie, HP 30/30, AC19,Touch:13, FF:14, CMD: 16)] Tuesday June 6th, 2017 9:39:06 PM
Ethani's head spins after all the conversing. This city was too complex, and she had half a mind to leave it once she was sure everything is stable.
After checking the vendors with Lornak, she returns with Lornak to his room and rubs the tension out of his shoulders and watches him drift of to sleep. She then collects Asteria and heads off to the XXX bar, anxious to key up with a Pirate of Jack connection and warn her mother Ashira about the trade that is going on with the Sahuagin.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:28 Touch 18; FF 24 - CMD 18 Tuesday June 6th, 2017 11:39:04 PM
After taking the night to sleep on it, Toston decides it is time to visit some of the people they've helped in the past. He starts out with Paul Fisher, the man he used to crew for, then proceeds to visit Brother Elthorne, the merchants at Clover Way, any members of the trade delegation they went to Acid City with who happen to be in town. He also checks on the Dunkels and Dulmoths.
He takes the time to ask everyone he meets how they are and if they had any issues with the Sahuagin, merfolk or any of the houses lately.
He will assess what all the people the group have helped in the past have to say about the current situation before he recommends to the other team members a course of action.
Asteria (sub Nellie) Wednesday June 7th, 2017 6:16:57 AM
Asteria cocks an eyebrow when Ethan mentions going to a bar together. "A pirate bar, you say? Why have I not gone before??" Upon arrival, Asteria is a little disappointed. There was no funny talking birds. No Shelton bar keeps. I mean, sure, there were big burly guys she could probably get into a fight with, but other than that, she can't see why Ethan would want to come here.
Ordering a rum, Asteria quickly downs a few rounds and watches to see what her Sis has in mind.
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 d20+5=25 ; Wednesday June 7th, 2017 3:00:27 PM
Lornak wakes to the sun at his window and a familiar clinking sound. He raises up out of his bed and goes to it. He finds that he is surprising limber once more, an indication that Ethani had joined him during the night. He has vague recollections of kneaded flesh yet she is nowhere to be found. Outside he finds Vin on her perch playing with the gift he gave her. He stares at the tiny hourglass as she picks it up with her beak and turns it over and over. His mind wanders. (I'm going to RP this as her "trick" since I have already written about her doing this several times) (Handle Animal d20=25)
Lornak is no stranger to the machinations between houses, the politics, the deceptions... He loathes that he once again finds himself entangled within a similar world, one that he feels that he left behind him long ago. When Boggs asked him to do some good, this is the Last thing he thought would happen and yet, this is where he finds himself. His eyes focus on the hourglass Vin plays with, its sands spilling over and over themselves and he cannot help but see its gruesome irony. "I guess it was only matter of time..." He mouths. He walks to the the Great Room to join his companions leaving the owl to its plaything.
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 Wednesday June 7th, 2017 3:00:52 PM
(OOC - I will post more strategy conversation later!!!)
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 Wednesday June 7th, 2017 3:16:02 PM
(OOC-Also, I made a natural 20 roll for the well-being of our contractors and the state of our building. can this be addressed)
Days Off (OOC) - DM Post Melvin Pollack Wednesday June 7th, 2017 3:39:53 PM
Lornak and Ethani check on the dwarf contractors. While a couple of them seem to have gotten in some sort of confrontation that left them skittish, they don't need healing. Lornak looks over the building, and it does appear that everything has been built as the floorplan desired. Ethani considers packing it in.
Dusan, glad to have avoided a confrontation with Three Bits, gets briefed by Boggs on what happened. He is less than pleased that Dusan skipped the meeting but lets it go. Madri seems to look him over curiously. He votes to do some charitable work. Var seconds this idea. Did either have anything particular in mind? (Boggs might think of some things if you don't.) Lornak is non-committal at this time but seems to join this group later.
Toston suggests that he might meet with a number of past NPCs. (I will assume a PC split unless someone posts a mind change.)
Hmerrin, Wil and Asteria stay out of it. So does Ethani, who appears quite lost in thought.
Lornak goes to bed, thinking he needs a holiday. But Ethani, still awake, collects Asteria to warn her parents.
-------------
The XXX bar, a particular favorite of the House of Teeth among other pirates, seemed like any other bar, much to Asteria's chagrin. Sure, there was some subtle nautical hints in the design, and many burly seafairers about. But where are the parrots? The wheels or sails on the wall?
As Asteria drinks some rum, Ethani begins to talk to the barkeep about a Pirate of Jack connection to get a message out. He tells you that he might be able to set up a meeting with a Mister Gigantic. He asks some questions about what in particular Ethani wishes to do.
Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You happen to notice a rather familiar half orc "bridge" female glancing your way. She does not approach.}
---------------
Lornak wakes to find himself alone, Ethani not yet back.
As the day progresses, Toston heads out to meet with his list (Paul Fisher, the man he used to crew for, Brother Elthorne, the merchants at Clover Way, any members of the trade delegation they went to Acid City with who happen to be in town. He also checks on the Dunkels and Dulmoths. He takes the time to ask everyone he meets how they are and if they had any issues with the Sahuagin, merfolk or any of the houses lately.)(That is a lot of NPCs, many of whom I don't know or see in my notes. I will break some of this up in order to better pace everything.)
--------------------
The rest of the group presumably goes out to perform whatever charity they suggest.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d20+15=30 ; Wednesday June 7th, 2017 5:02:03 PM
"I was originally thinking we could help where the Sahuagin attacked," Dušan suggests, "but I'm open to other options. Wherever we can be seen helping and show that were not just ruffians looking to throw everything in turmoil, but to actually help the city and it's people."
Dušan waits to see if Boggs has any suggestions before getting a good night's rest. The next morning he heads to wherever was decided and puts in an honest day's work. Probably the first one he has done in years. He makes show of not accepting any charity for himself and helping others, joking with the other workers and buying treats for the families in the area. (Diplomacy d20+1 Guidance +6 Touch of Glory = 30. Let me know how much I should spend on the treats. I'm thinking small pastries or the like.)
Hmerrin Wednesday June 7th, 2017 6:39:52 PM
Hmerrin tries to think about the Houses, and Boggs' secrets, and Three Bits' convoluted warnings, and halflilng chokers....for maybe three minutes. It's too much, and too foreign, and frankly, he doesn't like it.
The idea of just lending a hand, now, THAT he can do.
The next morning, he picks up his carpentry tools and heads for docks, figuring that somewhere between here and there, someone needs a wooden something fixed.
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 Wednesday June 7th, 2017 7:26:09 PM
Lornak enters the Great Room to find it somewhat empty. He assumed everyone would have made their way home during the night. The emptiness is ominous, foreboding. It leaves Lornak very concerned. "It seems the truth of our situation has hit everyone else as it has hit me." He was ready to discuss what he feel was of import but will have to keep it to himself for now. He thinks perhaps it is time to rethink things. "Perhaps a new beginning." He mumbles. Thoughts of relocating from Marsh House to Shale House(tentative) enter his mind.
When his thoughts are broken by Toston moving through the space in what seems to be an urgent pace, he snaps out of it. "Where are you off to?" He asks. Upon answer he joins the gnome on his fact finding mission.
Ethani (Nellie) d20+6=25 ; Wednesday June 7th, 2017 8:29:59 PM
I'll try to speed this up a bit in order to get us back together...
Ethani does her typical routine that she would do to attract the attention of a Pirate of Jack. The one that has always been in place...she orders a glad of Aisildurian red and waits.
But this time it seems that she has perhaps attracted unwanted attention (Perception =25). Ethani wrinkles her nose unconsciously as the keep mentions "Mister Gigantic". She's never heard of him. True, she was no Pirate of Jack herself, but the recent happenings and their little talk with Three Bits has left her feeling a bit paranoid. Taking a sip of her wine, Ethani remains non commital. "Oh, I was just wondering if maybe they needed another crew member...I've always wanted to be a Pirate. With a slinky swagger that would have made her mother blush, Ethani gathers up Asteria and heads back to the Shale House just after the break of dawn. Hustling back to the Common room, she runs into Lorna and Toston. Barely stifling a yawn, Ethani declines heading out with the boys and heads up to her own room. Collapsing on the bed, Ethani sighs in sadness. It was not the same without Lornak. Her last thought as she drifts off to sleep is that she should bring up the idea of moving into his room.
Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Wednesday June 7th, 2017 8:33:55 PM
Will walks home by himself. He argues with Cicero as he goes. "This isn't working," Will says. "They think I'm insane. You'll not leave me alone. You ask me questions, scream inside my head and throw my body around like a puppet." "I'm sorry Will. I didn't ask for your ability to talk to me. I didn't ask to have someone available to discuss things. You know how lonely it is on this side? Of course, you don't." Will then steps into the building as Toston steps out and Lornak following. "Oi, where's the fire?"
Asteria (sub Nellie) Wednesday June 7th, 2017 10:59:31 PM
OOC: DM, will you please change the title of the Asteria post to say Ethani, thanks!
Loving the delicious burn of the rum, Asteria sizes up the sailors. She's pretty sure she can drink a couple of them under the table, and she bets she could hold her own in a brawl. The more she thinks about it, the more she's really starting to like this place
And then, just as Asteria is about to pick a fight, Ethani is suddenly whisking her away! As she is dragged out the door, she manages to blurt out "But why is the rum gone?"
Heading back to the House, Asteria pouts. She makes a mental note to give Ethani a piece of her mind once she gets a nap in.
Var (Tom I.) (HP:52/55 AC:17 T:13 FF:14 CMD:22) Wednesday June 7th, 2017 11:00:05 PM
Var nods excitedly at Dusan's suggestion. "I'm strong and can lift many 'a heavy thing. If there's repairs still underway, I could lend a hand..." Var flexes an arm, waggles his eyebrows, then flexes his other arm "...or two!"
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:28 Touch 18; FF 24 - CMD 18 Wednesday June 7th, 2017 11:23:30 PM
(OOC: My reasoning is if we are doing what we are doing for the people, then we should take their pulse before we make any moves regarding the houses; Also let me know how you want me to put this out like include other stops in my next post)
Toston's first stop is the Docks and Paul Fisher's fishing boat. It hasn't been that long since the Merfolk attack but he hasn't checked with his former employer since then.
He asks Paul how the fish are biting and if he's had any issues with the Merfolk, Sahuagin or any of the houses.
Unless Paul has anything further of his own to add Toston will then bid him a good day and move on to Brother Elthorne.
Days Off (OOC) - DM Post Melvin Pollack Thursday June 8th, 2017 4:21:41 PM
Ethani, a little nervous of meeting someone new - or worse, meeting again some old enemies - decides to remain noncommittal and chooses not to send her message at this time. The various House Teeth Half Orcs from the bridge don't engage.
Asteria drinks some, and wonders if she should get into a brawl with some random sailors. Ethani pulls her out before she can.
Mr Gigantic, a gnome house teeth trader with the Pirates of Jack, shakes his head after Ethani rushes out. "Her mother was a nut job, too," he told the bartender. "What can you do, right?"
------------
After everyone else leaves, Ethani and Asteria go to sleep.
Dusan joins in some charitable work asking for suggestions. Hmerrin suggests working some time at the docks, figuring they can find something somewhere. Var agrees, flexing his muscles.
On Boggs suggestion, they do some carpentry work on some of the damage to the various docks and boats, helping the House Teeth develop trade of various legality - but that will help goods enter the city and raise their profile with the one house that appears to be outside this civil war. As they work, the reaction from the town is mixed, but the team can see that they have a number of fans, or at least citizens willing to give them the benefit of the doubt.
They also notice some construction occuring a little further inland. "House Keys," one of the citizens mentions. "They're finally repairing some of the schools the Knives raided a while ago. Hope the Wolves don't find out any time soon."
--------------
Lornak and Toston go on their fact finding. Wil asks about it and decides he will meet with them.
It takes Paul Fisher some time to remember Toston, but he is glad to see you all. Regarding issues with the Merfolk and Sahaugin, he hasn't had many direct issues. But their civil war between the two has had its effect on trade, and maintaining independence from the Knives and Keys have led to some strained relations. "Nothing like shock troopers rounding us up, mind you. A little more uncoordinated harrasment, everyone on edge. Not even looking for loyalty, just reassurance that we aren't the revolution. Some fear of fire elementals for some reason."
Brother Elthorn, tending to his graveyard, is somewhat less forgiving. It would appear that the Knives (and their lap dogs the wolves) have been attempting to regain their iron grip on the city after the recent embarrasments, and religious shrines have taken some of the brunt. "Honestly, I'd have to close this place if it weren't for the Silvergloves. They really starting pumping out the funds when we needed it."
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 d20+11=29 ; d20+9=15 ; Thursday June 8th, 2017 6:22:00 PM
Lornak pulls his hood up over his head to shield his eyes from the day's sun. He puts up his Dirt City shield as he walks along with Toston to meet with their "people".(Perception d20=29) After the revelations of the previous evening, he can longer trust much more than his comrades. "I feel like I let this happen to me. To us." He says to Toston. "I used to be so diligent in protecting myself." He tries to blend into the crowd as he speaks but he is sure if someone is indeed looking for them specifically that they will be found... (Stealth d20=15) "To know we've been played AND watched this whole time... And Boggs...?" He cannot bring himself to say more.
When with Paul Fisher he asks about the revolution; "Is that how they are justifying it? What does the revolution look like to you?" Sharing glances with Toston.
When with Brother Elthorn he asks if he will elaborate on the specifics of the embarrassments; "The thing on the bridge, I think that was just layover from the sahuagin attacks."
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 d20+8=22 ; Thursday June 8th, 2017 6:24:02 PM
(OOC - Sorry, forgot to add the bluff roll playing innocent about the bridge[ILornak does not know Brother Elthorn])
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Thursday June 8th, 2017 7:13:58 PM
Dušan works his way closer to the discussion of the houses, hoping to ride some of the goodwill he built earlier. "Why would the Wolves be concerned?" Dušan questions, "I would think any repairs would be good. Not to mention schools are the Key's anyways?"
(Is this a new Diplomacy role or can I ride the previous. Dušan is +15 with guidance and Touch of Glory if he needs another role. Just let me know so I can keep track of Touch of Glory casts. I get 4 per day.)
Hmerrin d20+1=18 ; d20+3=13 ; Thursday June 8th, 2017 7:19:28 PM
Hmerrin gets lost in the comforting labor of turning boards into dock planks and boat fixtures. More than once, he wonders if maybe going home and rejoining the family business isn't all that bad an idea. Sure is a whole lot simpler in Merrydale, no doubt about it.
The young man flashes his white smile, and returns any greetings, while also glancing around to see if anything possibly dangerous is sneaking up on them.
Overhearing the citizen, he replies curiously, "The Knives are bustin' up schools? Why would they do that?"
Diplomacy 18 Perception 13
Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+12=30 ; Thursday June 8th, 2017 8:16:47 PM
"I want to dig into this fear of fire elementals?" Will says to Paul. (Diplomacy: 30) "We just fought one that took out an entire building. It was quite awful. If whoever is doing this likes to use fire then we better get better at fighting fire. Paul, got any advice on fire weapons around here?"
Var (Tom I.) (HP:52/55 AC:17 T:13 FF:14 CMD:22) d20+10=13 ; Thursday June 8th, 2017 11:11:16 PM
Var does his best to keep his eyes and ears open as he works to gauge the mood of the people around him. (Perception: 13) A somewhat difficult task when you're also lifting heavy bundles of wooden beams.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:20 Touch 18; FF 16 - CMD 18 Friday June 9th, 2017 12:28:50 AM
Toston says to Paul Fisher following up on Lornak's inquirt, "Indeed, this is the first time I've heard of a revolution. Is this an actual organization / faction or just the houses being paranoid as everyone IS on edge?"
Toston says to Elthorne, "I'm glad you quit drinking and that the shrine to Ffloy can remain open. I take it since we haven't had further zombie problems you've kept up with the consecrations? I didn't realize the Silvergloves family were big followers of Ffloy. Do they come by here often?"
Toston then goes to visit the merchants of Clover Way in the city below taking the appropriate actions to peace bond his weapons.
He will visit Wendy the shop girl at Alphonses, Fletch the gnome tinkerer, Billy the tailor and Grut the half-orc day laborer while he is there. He also uses his speaks with animal ability to question the dogs of Fletch (Bow and Arrow) and Grut (Rocky) if he can get all the dogs together at once in case they notice something their owners didn't.
After visiting with them he will see if the half-elf Lukas Bell, Epria Gladstone of the he South Main Halfling Ladies’ Sewing Circle and Assassins’ Guild, Ekhart and Ludwin the human traders or Andrit Nighthelm the Dwarf salesman are available to ask similar questions of. Regardless he will stop by the South Main Halfling Ladies’ Sewing Circle and Assassins’ Guild in the hopes that Epria had told her fellow seamstresses and faux-assassins about the caravan guards who helped their sister in the past.
Ethani (Nellie, HP 30/30, AC19,Touch:13, FF:14, CMD: 16)] Friday June 9th, 2017 9:19:48 AM
With a long exaggerated stretch, Ethani wakes from her nap to an empty bed. Sighing in exasperation, Ethani recalls the previous night. With the stupid half orc there, she'd not been able to deliver her message. And she's pretty sure she heard the gnome call her mom crazy. That stung. It wasn't Ashira's fault that she had been heartseeded against her will. Tortured even.
Reaching by the side of her bed, Ethani pulls out the scrolls that Bill Troublefinder had written for her. She'd asked him to give her some god memories of Ashira's so that Ethani could continue her therapy. She read a line she's read so many times before. "I knew you're mother before she was heartseeded. I was in attendance on her wedding day. She was so very, very happy. Radiant, beaming with joy and pride. She loved Rigging with all her heart, body, and soul."
Ethani shudders as she unwillingly recalls a particularly bad night when Ashira's nightmares came back with a vengeance. That particular night, she screamed so loud and so long that even her stoic war trained first officer had become concerned for General Baraq. Summoning Ethani personally, he had Ashira's daughter might provide some forms of comfort. Kneeling at her bedside, Ethani had tried to consol her. "General, General, it's a dream. It's only a dream..."
The familiar voice must have snapped Ashira out of it, because she bolted upright, clutching her chest. Alcohol glazed eyes caught Ethani's face, though the healer could tell it was not her she was seeing in her delerium. "I'm so sorry Rigging. I should have been stronger. I should have waited. But I wasn't strong enough.
A lone tear works it's way down Ethani's cheek as she carefully rolls up the scroll and stores it away. Why did mom send me here? Too far away to help her and apparently anyone else. Feeling a little hungry and needing a distraction, Ethani heads down to Tombs for a light lunch.
Asteria Friday June 9th, 2017 12:38:32 PM
A blissful snore emerges from the barbarians room. She dreams of bar fights, colassial battles and glory.
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 d20+8=19 ; d20+5=15 ; Saturday June 10th, 2017 1:04:57 AM
Lornak follows Toston to each of the contacts on the gnomes list. He feels a little out of place in Clover Way because the groups adventures did not include him until the very last of the groups stint here. When Toston speaks to the dogs he does his best to help. (Handle Animal d20=15 to aid another)
Once that is over he happily greets the contacts he knows and inquires about their goings on. (Epira Gladstone, Ekhart and Ludwin-Diplomacy d20=19)
Moving towards Lunch - DM Post Melvin Pollack Saturday June 10th, 2017 11:52:37 AM
As Asteria sleeps, Ethani sits in her bed, allowing herself to feel all sorts of emotions. Her lunch is uneventful.
-----------
The fact that the Keys seem to be building schools or that the Knives might tear them down gets some questioning from both Dusan (I let him use his old roll) and Hmerrin.
There's some arguing among the questioners, sparked by a comment about how little the Knives and Wolves like learning. The gist is that the Knives fear that charity and school spending might endear the populace towards the Keys and away from them. There are further discussions of what the schools might teach, what good building will do, what the motives of the Silvergloves are. There is even some justifications regarding what the Knives are doing.
Hmerrin and Var take glances at the citizenry, which are just enough to overhear some snippets of conversation. About whether the schools are a good thing, about needing to trust the government. Nobody seems hostile to you or each other, but it isn't easy to tell.
-----------
Lornak decides that he needs to protect himself - and to get a better handle on what happened to Boggs.
In his talks with Paul, Lornak seems a little pushing about the Knives and revolution. Wil asks about the fire elemental stuff and how to fight them. Toston asks about whether there is an actual revolution.
To all this, Paul shrinks. "Look, I got an okay life and I ain't looking to stir things up and have yet another coup that swears they'll make things all right, and I wouldn't advise you either. There's still crime and chaos after our last four government changes, and there will be after our next four. Frankly, I aint completely opposed to the Knives finally cracking some skulls, even if they maybe get a little rambunctious here or there.
"Truth is, most of us want to just live our lives the best we can and let the Knives and the Keys stay away from us. Yes, the Keys may be maneuvering once again to retake power. Yes, maybe the Knives are a little more scared of the populace, especially you. But there aint going to be some massive revolution. And if there is, then for what? To have some other elite crooks in charge? To have the criminals continue to run this city just as it was built on?"
------------
Toston remarks how good it is that Brother Elthorne quit drinking. "Yep, for the third time now. Cutting out clear liquors for some Ffloy thing or other."
Lornak asks Brother Elthorn about the specifics of the embarrasments, trying to play innocent about the bridge. "Well, like you guys... I think like you guys, we've been hearing a lot of stories. Course, the Keys seem to be making their move too, and who knows what the Cloaks and Darts are up to, and I know the whole Dunkel fish sale thing didn't quite put those whispers to bed."
Toston asks if the Silvergloves are big Ffloy fans. "Not particularly. They're kind of better known as Waard followers. And from what I've heard, they've been pumping money into all sorts of temples and charities."
------------
(I'm going to speed some of Toston's things up, lest he decide to talk to every citizen of the peninsula and eventually wind up in Cresent valley asking my PC what she thinks of the Silvergloves.)
Most people that Toston talk to verify what was discussed above. The Keys spreading more charity and talking to more citizens. The Knives cracking down some on crime but also on some dissenters and Keys, while trying to get these weapons deals rumors under control. Citizens mostly not wanting a revolution so much as for the chaos to finally stop.
There are also some rumors regarding the Silvergloves. There's some gratitude for their moves to help the citizenry but also some cynicism, not to mention fear. As if they have some reputation for ruthlessness and violence under that polished facade.
The big thing is the Dunkels, who want it known quite clearly that they were set up.
Hmerrin Saturday June 10th, 2017 8:23:45 PM
Hmerrin listens to what he can, until the topic starts winding down.
Unable to think of any good way to segue into something else, the brown haired teen gives his best "whaddya gonna do?" shrug, and starts working the lumber again.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d20+15=26 ; Sunday June 11th, 2017 5:10:48 PM
"That's a bit pessimistic," Dušan comments, "Although I can't necessarily blame you. I grew up here in Dirt and lived through the oppressions. For me though, It's the reason I have to believe there is a better way that supports the commoner, not just feeds off of them."
(Diplomacy d20+8+1 Guidance +6 Touch of Glory=26)
With his part said, Dušan offers a sympathetic smile and returns to work.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:20 Touch 18; FF 16 - CMD 18 Monday June 12th, 2017 12:53:31 AM
Toston just wanted to be thorough and to check up and back with any of the citizens the Tide have helped along the way. He does his best to assure the Dunkels that their side of the story will get a fair hearing and makes a note to talk to both Boggs and Three Bits about getting the word out the Dunkels were setup. He just wonders if it will matter without naming the Knives but is cautious about letting that bombshell drop yet it ignite the city in further strife. He also tells everyone he spoke to that the Tide is always willing to lend a hand if they happen to get into future trouble.
(OOC: would like to form bonds with the community and think it would be cool if some of the past NPCs we encountered besides Three Bits become reoccuring characters)
He also makes a mental note to ask Boggs about the revolution and what he might have heard about it. Considering the way things are the gnome thinks it may be possible the revolution is controlled opposition and could be an excuse for the powerful to beat down on the poor but then again it could just as easily be legit and perhaps the Tide could wash out the corrupt government and replace it with one that is just. A gnome can dream can't he?
Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Monday June 12th, 2017 11:50:37 AM
"You know, I could go for a bit of a revolution," Cicero says, within Wil's head. "Shut up!" Will replied out loud then clenched his teeth. "What did you do with Rebecca? I was a bit angry but at least she wasn't annoying." Cicero was quiet for a moment then added, "She's around. She just felt you were a little hostile and needed someone a bit stronger." "Ah," Will said. "That's just great." To the group, he says. "So what do we want to do? I could use a bit of crossbow practice but I could also save a couple souls, if anyone is in trouble. Speaking of souls, you know the more we save the less I have to listen too. This is Dirt City, trouble all the time. Maybe we should move on from the Saquien..Saquiain.. fish issue?"
Moving towards Lunch - DM Post Melvin Pollack Monday June 12th, 2017 6:12:38 PM
Charity, revolution, chats with old friends and new acquaintances come and go. And as The Tide continues its work, people begin to take notice.
People who work for Boggs begin to take notice, beckoning you back.
---------
On Madri's desk sits a small flyer for "Tapas, Etc.", the restaurant that you visited earlier and really enjoyed. It beckons you to come back, preferably today at 1 (it is now 9 when you read this), for its salmon guac extravaganza.
"You should mention to the hostess that while some people prefer the chicken, you are interested in the salmon options," the attached note reads. It is signed by the Silverglove symbol, attached to a coupon.
A couple heartbeats later, the teen's face squints. "Hey. Wait a minute. Are they setting us up again?"
Hmerrin's face contorts with the effort of heavy thinking. "We gotta show up, though." he opines, "just to see what they want. Maybe just some of us, with sneaky types sorta around, just in case?"
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Monday June 12th, 2017 6:56:36 PM
"Salmon Guac, eh?" Dušan smacks his lips trying to figure out how that would taste, "Guess I'll try anything once. If that's at 1 I should have enough time to get some shopping out of the way."
Dušan spends the morning buying the ritual components needed to further imbue his Cauldron Familiar. (OOC: Is there anything that requires a trip to the Catacombs?)
Ethani Monday June 12th, 2017 9:13:01 PM
Sighing, Ethani decides she needs the comfort of Lornak. She heads over to Asteria's room and wake the sleeping barbarian. "Hey Asteria, if you help me find Lornak, I'll buy you a whole bottle of rum."
Asteria (sub Nellie) Monday June 12th, 2017 9:21:03 PM
Waking with a snort, Asteria stares up at Ethani. "You better not be teasing! " Quickly gathering her gear, Asteria heads out with Ethani, looking for Lornak and the others.
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 Monday June 12th, 2017 10:00:28 PM
Lornak casually walks into the Great Room at Marsh House after the last of the groups contacts have been reached out to. He is weary from all of the travel around the city. He hopes that all of his companions have made their rounds and that they can discuss a few things without prying ears.
Chiefly;
What is the general sense of the public and did they glean any new important facts?
Does the group want to move out of Marsh House and into their new building?
Does the group want to continue including Boggs in their discussions?
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 Monday June 12th, 2017 10:01:17 PM
He encourages Toston to share what they have discovered.
Var (Tom I.) (HP:52/55 AC:17 T:13 FF:14 CMD:22) Monday June 12th, 2017 11:11:45 PM
"err.. sure." Var says hesitantly. "I could go for lunch. Assumin' we get to sat fer th' whole meal this time."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:20 Touch 18; FF 16 - CMD 18 Tuesday June 13th, 2017 7:24:04 AM
(OOC: My internet went down when I was trying to do my posts yesterday)
Toston shares what Paul Fisher told them. The Merfolk vs Sahuagin civil war is having an effect on trade and the Knives and Keys are straining relations on the docks. There aren't shock troops rounding people up but the Knives and Keys are trying to verify there is not a revolution. The Knives and Keys are also concerned about the fire elementals.
He also shares that Brother Elthorn stopped drinking and that the Knives have been squeezing the religious shrines but that Silvergloves have been donating money to the shrines to keep them afloat.
He then shares the general sentiment of those he talked to. The Keys spreading more charity and talking to more citizens. The Knives cracking down some on crime but also on some dissenters and Keys, while trying to get these weapons deals rumors under control. Citizens mostly not wanting a revolution so much as for the chaos to finally stop.
He also shares the rumors regarding the Silvergloves. There's some gratitude for their moves to help the citizenry but also some cynicism, not to mention fear. As if they have some reputation for ruthlessness and violence under that polished facade.
He finishes by saying, "The Dunkels want it known that they were set up."
Toston then says about the note, "Salmon guac doesn't sound appealing but this sounds more like a way for us to meet with the Silvergloves than get a bargain on a weird dish. They want to meet us at 1 and obviously what we are supposed to tell the server is a pass phrase to let them know we are expected."
Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Tuesday June 13th, 2017 10:55:12 AM
"What if we try to filter in little by little throughout the day. Then by 1:00 have Toston and someone else show up? That way, if there is an issue then we will all be there and it will not be obvious." "Just a thought." Will said. "I would volunteer to chat but will my recent history, I'm sure that's not wise but... I really don't like Three Bits.. enough said." He then sits and waits.
"Hrm. Knives are tryin' to hold onto their power, and the Keys are tryin' to build up their power. S'pose that's just a normal day in Dirt City."
"Would be happy to help the Dunkels clear their name... Iff'n I knew how."
"What was that 'bout the undersea war muckin' up trade? They got a blockade goin'?"
Moving towards Lunch - DM Post Melvin Pollack Tuesday June 13th, 2017 9:49:41 PM
After some discussion of what each team learned, it is agreed that theyou should go to this meeting.
Dusan wants to go shopping in the interim. Any other preparations.
Wil wants to filter in. In what order do you do so, and what do you do while waiting.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Wednesday June 14th, 2017 12:35:19 AM
Dušan spends a leisurely morning browsing the various vendors and eventually finds everything he needs. He gets to the area of the meeting an hour eaarly and arrives as needed.
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 Wednesday June 14th, 2017 12:35:48 AM
Lornak is relieved to see everyone meander back to Marsh House. He knows that everyone needed to take time to sort through everything that has happened lately. He is especially happy to see Ethani. He has missed her. It feels like they never find the time for themselves, even today. He joins Dusan for the supply run out of necessity.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:20 Touch 18; FF 16 - CMD 18 Wednesday June 14th, 2017 12:41:48 AM
Toston says, "I'm for arriving an hour early. We could have a drink and scope out the Tapas place for anything odd and then at one approach the server about the salmon guac special with the coupon."
Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+11=22 ; Wednesday June 14th, 2017 11:34:23 AM
"Ok," Will says as the others agree to filter in slowly. Will steps out to purchase some regular bolts for his crossbow then heads to the meeting place, orders some fish and eats slowly. (Stealth:22 - To blend in as an unassociated customer.)
Moving towards Lunch - DM Post Melvin Pollack Wednesday June 14th, 2017 3:28:23 PM
One by one (starting with Toston and Wil first, not sure who comes in last), members of the Tide begin to enter "Tapas, Etc." in the middle of the lunch hour.
The place is packed. A family here, a couple there, servers moving back and forth from the kitchen. At the bar, where Toston goes, a Dunkel drinks to forget. Wil enters seemingly unnoticed and sits down at a booth, but doesn't detect any unusual patrons
(OOC: It's actually a disguise roll if you are trying to blend in. I made the necessary adjustments.)
Some of you notice a couple of House Knives, loitering about. Any attempt to engage will result in them ignoring you or shrugging you off.
When you finally give the password, the hostess directs you to a booth in the back.
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 d20+8=27 ; d20+11=15 ; Wednesday June 14th, 2017 3:39:37 PM
Lornak enters Tapas Etc. at the designated time and blends into the lunch crowd. (Disguise d20=27) He picks a place at the bar and orders something light for his lunch. As he sits and enjoys his meal, he casually looks around the room and scopes out his companions, keeping track of where they sit. When the time comes for the meeting he stays where he is and observes the room. (Perception d20=15). He is a little preoccupied with everything weighing on his mind.
Hmerrin d20+1=7 ; Wednesday June 14th, 2017 4:39:55 PM
Hmerrin strides into Tapas. He's not wearing his helm, but the platemail and axes make blending iimpossible, so he doesn't try. He does give a nod and a smile to the families or folks who watch him stride by. Diplomacy 7
At the bar, Hmerrin gives the passcode, and follows the hostess to the back booth.
Var (Tom I.) (HP:52/55 AC:17 T:13 FF:14 CMD:22) d20+10=25 ; d20+1=4 ; Wednesday June 14th, 2017 11:11:42 PM
Once inside, Var gives the tapas bar a good looking-over (Perception: 25), checking for anyone unusual. He does his best to move nonchalantly through the crowd, but manages to walk directly into a waiter (Disguise: 4). Var quickly gives the passcode, and moves to the booth.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d20+8=12 ; Wednesday June 14th, 2017 11:22:57 PM
Dušan casts Guidance, enters and gives the passphrase. He hopes he doesn't make to much of a face as he would really prefer the chicken. As he takes his place he casts Detect Magic on those they are meeting, but is distracted by the aromas from the kitchen.
Toston casually strides up to the bar and orders a small beer. He pays the barkeep and nurses his drink while observing the people around him (Perception: 29)
After an hour, Toston approaches the Maitre D' and gives the pass phrase going to the booth in the back.
Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+7=11 ; d20+10=20 ; Thursday June 15th, 2017 11:55:07 AM
Wil prefers to stay hidden but it becomes hard as Rebecca and Cicero begin to lecture each other within his head. "Will would like us to be quiet," Rebecca says. "I don't do what Will tells me to do," replied Cicero. "..." "Would you stop," Will says hoping he manages to avoid any attention. "I'm trying to help here and not make a scene." (Disguise: 11) (Perception: 20 - to watch for any trouble)
Moving towards Lunch - DM Post Melvin Pollack Thursday June 15th, 2017 2:52:00 PM
(OOC: Sorry, no map today. Busy with anniversary and some other stuff. I will have the map up tomorrow or Saturday.)
Lornak sits at the bar, well disguised - hopefully enough. He keeps somewhat to himself, staying in position as the clock turns 1. Toston joins him until the appointed hour, and gets some looks from the support staff. By their side, the dunkel continues to complain to any who will listen that they were set up, much to the consternation of the house knives gathering at the door.
Much of the group (Hmerrin, Ethani, Asteria, Dusan) simply head towards the booth. Hmerrin tries to smile at the patrons as he passes, and winds up creeping most of them out. (Ethani and Asteria did not post. But neither of them are mechanically or personality matched for hiding and scouting so I just moved them to the booth.) A little kid of about 6 seems to watch them, sticking out his tongue if they look at him. The mother finally tries to get the kid to eat.
Dusan attempts to detect magic on an empty stomach and gets some static.
Will attempts to stand to the side, and attracts a massive amount of attention.
As the clock strikes 1, a busboy (elf male, about 16) begins to walk out of the kitchen. (Wil and anyone with Perception 20 since you are looking for it Highlight to display spoiler: {You basically know what "he" is wearing around his neck. This time, you can see the copper choke collar has some turns to it, lettering perhaps.}) After a scan of the room, he begins to walk purposefully towards your booth.
Wil and Var only Highlight to display spoiler: {Some of the knives near the bar or front door begin to move into the restaurant.}
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d20+9=17 ; Thursday June 15th, 2017 6:46:39 PM
Dušan sustains Detect Magic focusing on the are around the busboy approaching the table. He nods politely wondering if this is their contact.
(Knowledge Arcane + Guidance = D20+8+1=17)
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 d20+11=25 ; Thursday June 15th, 2017 7:59:52 PM
Lornak watches as the "busboy" comes out of the kitchen. His attention perks up and becomes fixed on "him" as he walks past and towards the booth where his comrades sit waiting. Lornak hopes that they have enough perception to know who the boy really is and who they are parlaying with. He wants desperately to be sitting at that booth but doesn't want to blow his cover. So he just remains where he sits and continues to savor his meal. He does his best to listen in on the conversation.
Var (Tom I.) (HP:52/55 AC:17 T:13 FF:14 CMD:22) d20+10=21 ; Thursday June 15th, 2017 11:54:33 PM
"hmm." Var says quietly, but decides not to make a scene; at least not yet. He decides to keep an eye on the front door...for now. (Perception: 21)
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:24? Touch 18; FF 20? - CMD 18 Friday June 16th, 2017 1:33:30 AM
(OOC: I got a perception of 29 last time higher than Wil or Var why don't I see the Knives?)
IF Toston notices the knives heading towards the booth he uses his wand to cast mage armor casually in case things turn rough, "We've got Knives, incoming" Toston says casually, "Don't know if we have to fight but probably not a bad idea to be wary."
===========================================
OTHERWISE Toston doesn't notice the Knives and he just says to his friends, "The busboy has a copper choker."
Active Effects: Mage Armor? - +4 AC - 60 minutes [600 rounds]
Hmerrin d20+1=9 ; Friday June 16th, 2017 9:41:50 AM Did that kid just stick his tongue out at me? Nice...
"Huh?", Hmerrin replies to Toston. "Oh, right. Uh. Well isn't that who we're supposed to be meeting?"
Nevertheless, the young man straightens from his customary slouch, and awaits the arrival of their contact.
Perception 9
Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+11=14 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+8=24 ; Friday June 16th, 2017 2:00:58 PM
Wil disguises himself, to anyone looking for the group, and whispers to any patron around him. "Do you know who that busboy with the collar is? My friend says he is the best one around here." (Disguise: 18; Bluff: 24)
Moving towards Lunch - DM Post Melvin Pollack Friday June 16th, 2017 4:57:15 PM
(OOC: Re perception. I didn't count Toston because he talked specifically about perception before the event while Wil and Var did their perceptions at the time. But I caved and gave Toston his perception because he was the only one smart enough to buff during the designated opportunity.)
With a wave from their leader, various Knife members began to fan out into the area.
Dusan can see some auras from around the busboy, but can't determine if they are glammers or other magic.
Various patrons watch with some alarm as the Knives begin to close the window shades.
Lornak stays where he is, attempting to hear over his dunkel drunk friend. Var watches closely as the knives begin to move. The Dunkel seems to eye the closest Knife as if sizing him up while unable to focus.
"Hey, busboy, get over here," the Knife says as "he" crosses the room.
She remains silent, continuing on towards The Tide. Hmerrin's confusion begins to dissipate. The family that Hmerrin was watching begins to shrink in his seats.
"I'm talking to you, pal," he shouts.
Toston casts mage armor upon himself. Wilford begins to attempt bluffing (and I assume moving around the room) to various wait staff... and eventually to a knife.
"So that's how you want to play it," the Knife Leader says to the contact. "The codex. I know you and your friends have it. Where is it?"
The busboy finally drops her disguise, changing to a familiar young halfling female from the pier. And there she stands, staring quietly.
Knives begin to circle The Tide. A knife hovers directly behind Ethani and Asteria. None of the knives appear to be in a playful mood.
"I'm going to kill you right here," the knife began. "If you don't open your mouth and..."
The halfling blew right in the knife leader's face, casting glitterdust upon him.
"Kill them," the knife leader shouted, his hands to his face. "No witnesses! Kill them all!"
Var (Tom I.) (HP:52/55 AC:17 T:13 FF:14 CMD:22) d20+10=22 ; d6+3=9 ; Friday June 16th, 2017 6:19:50 PM
Having been watching this 'storm' gather, Var is not surprised when violence breaks out. Springing to his feet, Var draws a handaxe and hacks at the Knife closest to him (Attack: 22 vs AC; 9 damage)
"Asteria! Behind you!" Var shouts to Asteria, warning her of the Knife lurking behind her and Ethani.
Hmerrin(HP:61/61 AC:24 T:14 FF:21 CMD:21) d20+10=13 ; Friday June 16th, 2017 9:00:40 PM
"'Kill them all'? Guess that makes you the bad guys." Hmerrin launches himself over to the next table while drawing his two axes.
Reaching K5, he flails out at the man with an off-balance swing of his battleaxe.
-- Move 20' to V10 while drawing axes ----someone please move Hmerrin as I've no access to google drive till Wednesday.
Attack K5, power attack. Miss (ac13)
V10
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:28 Touch 18; FF 24 - CMD 18 d20+8=23 ; d8+1=3 ; Saturday June 17th, 2017 9:23:38 AM
(OOC: If Toston rolls a perception check I assume he is just looking out in general for the duration of posts. Do you want me to roll multiple checks if I do one at the beginning and more later?)
Toston drops the wand on the table.
He then finishes his standard battle preparation of casting shield after the mage armor has taken affect.
He calls out to the bar patrons, "If you can get behind the bar or to the bathroom without crossing paths with the Knives I'd suggest you do so, otherwise take cover where you can while we handle this!"
The gnome then moves towards the 4th Knife drawing his curveblade as he goes so that the Knife can choose between engaging Toston or moving towards someone else and giving Toston an AOO.
Lastly he charges his attacks with magic as a swift action (arcane strike)
If needed: AOO 23 vs AC - 3 damage
Active Effects: Mage Armor - +4 AC - 60 minutes [599 rounds] Shield - +4 shield bonus; Magic Missile Immunity - 2 min [20 rounds]
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 d20+6=23 ; Saturday June 17th, 2017 3:26:43 PM
Lornak is chagrined at once again finding himself inadvertently helping the glamoured she witch. He keeps an eye on "him."(Keeping the previous Perception roll d20=25)
As the Knives "lay down the law" Lornak keeps his disguise and play acts like he is a frightened citizen. His head jerks and his body turns towards the shouting voices, spilling his cup and plate off the bar and onto the floor. He then stands and spins, looking from the Knives at the door to the back corner of the bar. The move masks one hand that finds the familiar grip of his rapier. He does not unsheathe it, yet. (Perform d20=23)
He slides along the edge of the bar toward the corner where the Dunkle sits, his empty hand leading him. (Move action) He plans to protect the egress of any citizen(s) that follow Toston's advice to get out of harms way. Hopefully if/when he engages the Knives he will have a little surprise on his side.
Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+6=20 ; d10=2 ; d10=2 ; Sunday June 18th, 2017 11:06:49 AM
"Note codex... note busboy, " Wil says to himself. A Knife behind him, Wil fires his crossbow. (Attack: 20; Hit: 2) "Kill everyone, you have to be kidding. Do you know who your trying to kill. The Tide will wash over you."
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d100=55 ; Sunday June 18th, 2017 6:08:27 PM
Dušan casts Bull's Strength on Hmerrin as the fighter moves past him and sighs as the violence erupts. "I knew I should have ordered the chicken."
(OOC: Standard Action - Cast Bull's Strength d100 = 55 Ley Roll, Spell is cast, Spell per day is spent. Total L1 4/1, L2 2/1, L3 2/1 60 rounds Bull's Strength on Hmerrin: +4 enhancement bonus to Strength, adding the usual benefits to melee attack rolls, melee damage rolls, and other uses of the Strength modifier
Dušan (Erik) [HP:40/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Sunday June 18th, 2017 6:13:47 PM
(OOC: Standard Action - Cast Bull's Strength d100 = 55 Ley Roll, Spell is cast, Spell per day is spent. Total L1 2/1, L2 2/1, L3 2/1 60 rounds Bull's Strength on Hmerrin: +4 enhancement bonus to Strength, adding the usual benefits to melee attack rolls, melee damage rolls, and other uses of the Strength modifier Fixed - I found out I misunderstood how many spells I was suppose to have so lower number :(. Let's hope for better Ley Rolls.)
Toston continues to buff, as he moves next to K4. (After some thought, I decided the swift action did not trigger an AoO because it's untyped). He shouts that people should take cover, and some do move towards the bathroom or the bar. Others (such as the family behind you) remain trapped.
Lornak, pretending to be a drunk himself, tries to lead the Dunkel out of the bar. The Dunkel shrugs him off, telling him he will deal with this later.
Will attacks the knife behind him (I think you mean K5) and strikes for 2 damage.
Dusan buffs Hmerrin.
Ethani and Asteria remain frozen, unacting.
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K1 manages to wipe his eyes, removing the glitterdust. He lost his AoO from the blindness, but he strikes with his longsword in pursuit (8 damage)
K3 makes a 5 foot step towards Var, flanking him with K2. They both swing twice for a total of three hits (total damage 61).
"Sorry, Charlie," K4 snarks. "Looks like your teammate's all washed up." She swings twice but Toston's AC is too much to overcome.
K5 moves to swing himself. His first swing is a bald miss but his second swing connects badly (crit confirmed) for 26 damage.
K6 fires a searing light ray at Toston, but misses widely.
K7 moves to menace some of the civilians, but pauses, turning towards a supremely fast and supremely drunk angry Dunkel.
K8 moves towards the civilians by the bar (and Lornak, unknowingly).
Some civilians step forward, some try to hide or run. One civilian steps out of the bathroom and then runs back in.
Lornak HP:37nl/49 AC: 18(T:13/FF:10) CMD:19 d20+10=25 ; d6+3=6 ; Monday June 19th, 2017 4:46:32 PM
Lornak is surprised by the spryness of the Dunkel but it does not affect his resolve. He launches himself off of the edge of the bar and engages the closest Knife(K8) unsheathing his rapier along the way(move action-5 foot step)
He lashes out hoping his performance takes the Knife off guard.(Attack Action d20=25, 6 dmg)
He is regretful that the Dunkel uses his energy to flee instead of fight. "Thanks for the help!" He yells after him as he passes.
(OOC- I don't know what technical advantage(if any) Lornak would get from his playacting)
The fighter stops talking, steps back, and glowers at the man.
Then, he wordlessly unleashes a series of swinging attacks.
-- Full attack, power attack, on K5 Atk 1 w/ battleaxe hits ac 17 for 14 hp damage Atk 2 w/ battleaxe hits ac 18 for 19 hp damage Off hand attack w/ handaxe hits ac 29 for 12 hp damage
Dušan (Erik) [HP:39/40; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d100=69 ; d100=61 ; d4=1 ; d8=7 ; d8=8 ; Monday June 19th, 2017 9:44:11 PM
Dušan starts to panic as he sees Var take blow after crushing, but manages to center himself with deep breath. He casts Spectral Hand near the Half Orc and with a heroic effort manages to to maintain a hold on the Ley Line to power a cast of Cure Moderate Wounds on Var. (21 HP)
(OOC: Standard Action - Cast Spectral Hand 1d4=1 HP Hero Point Spent - Cast Cure Moderate Wounds on Var 2d8+6=21 HP healed d100 = 69 Ley Roll, Spell is cast, Spell per day is spent. Total L1 2/1, L2 1/1, L3 2/1 d100 = 61 Ley Roll, Spell is cast, Spell per day is spent. Total L1 2/1, L2 1/1, L3 1/1 60 rounds Spectral Hand 59 rounds Bull's Strength on Hmerrin: +4 enhancement bonus to Strength, adding the usual benefits to melee attack rolls, melee damage rolls, and other uses of the Strength modifier)
Var (Tom I.) (HP:-6/55 AC:17 T:13 FF:14 CMD:22) d20+10=23 ; d6+3=6 ; Monday June 19th, 2017 9:48:37 PM
The two Knives give Var the thrice-over. A savaging that might have reduced a lesser man to a chunky paste, but Var is able to hold on to a bit of his strength for a few crucial moments longer (Orc Ferocity). Wracked with pain, Var makes another slash at K2 (Attack: 23 vs AC; 6 damage)
Wilford Grimly (HP:34/29; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+8=17 ; Monday June 19th, 2017 10:23:12 PM
(Reflex save: 17 for Evasion) Wil evades, attempting to take away some of the sting of the strike. He then takes a defensive stance and tries to step away from the fight so he can summon a shadow.
Ethani (Nellie) 3d6=12 ; Monday June 19th, 2017 10:40:39 PM
"Oh my gods, Var!" Noting her companions blood loss, Ethani sends out a burst of healing as she heads toward her friend. 12 pts to Var, Hmerinn, and Dusan.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:33/33; AC:28 Touch 18; FF 24 - CMD 18 d20+8=10 ; Monday June 19th, 2017 10:46:11 PM
Toston says to Knife 4, "You don't know Var. He's tough. Furthermore the Tide is a team and our healers will see to him."
Toston then charges his weapons with magic again (swift action: arcane strike) takes a 5 foot step and attacks Knife 4 with the curve blade.
(10 vs AC; miss)
Active Effects: Mage Armor - +4 AC - 60 minutes [598 rounds] Shield - +4 shield bonus; Magic Missile Immunity - 2 min [19 rounds]
Asteria Amarante (sub Nellie) [HP: 51/51; AC: 22; Touch: 12; FF: 18; CMD: 20] ,Improved Uncanny Dodge d12+6=13 ; d12+6=13 ; d20+10=11 ; d20+10=13 ; Monday June 19th, 2017 10:46:50 PM
Shaking out of her rum stupor, Asteria attacks the Knife who dares to challenge her. AC11...fail.
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