Armand (Robert D) AC 16/touch11/flat15 HP 41/41 CMD 16 Character Sheet Saturday August 20th, 2016 10:47:27 AM
Armand cocks an eyebrow at Leskni's comment.
Highlight to display spoiler: {"Not sure I like the idea of Drow in the house, when there is probably room at the Tavern for them. Doubt she is going to leave her guard behind, or that they would let her go off by herself."} Armand mumbles to himself.
DM Shane Sunday August 21st, 2016 8:56:09 PM Miles grimaces and sighs, then like the soldier he is, moves with efficiency and authority. In a few hour’s things are set. Olrich and James as well as all the Drow are housed in rooms at the Tree Top Tavern. The three drow interspersed between the two humans’ rooms so that no drow rooms are together. Two guards are set on the rooms. one to watch and one to call the alarm if things go pear shaped. Eclyandrly tells her guards not to try anything or face her wrath. She also tells them that everything is going to be alright. James acts very sullen and angry. Olrich still calmly takes it all in stride. Everybody gets fed and watered. Rye bread, pot greens and roast pork with a really nice butternut squash stew. Fresh spring water, root beer or cheerwine are all that are offered to drink as they don’t want everybody drunk for the hearing. This is taken with a chorus of boos from some of the tree patrons. Eclyandryl volunteers to be first. She’s a little bit nervous and keeps near Leskni, clutching her hand on the walk down to the tree. The hearing is to be held on one of the lower viewing platforms so that everyone can gather round and bear witness. Everyone shows up, all the tree dwellers, the Dwarf and Gnome colonies from close by and every Tradesman and Drover currently at the tree all show up for it. Hiflanyl Ilyndrathyl who runs the lifts takes over letting people on the platform, and once it’s filled he starts turning people away, telling them to take a limb on a higher level to watch the show. It feels a bit like a county fair. Several of the business owners are hawking wears, while Ciyradyl Ilyndrathyl has set up a place to sell beer and juice to the assemblage. Folbre Ilyndrathyl comes out of his office where he manages the overall operations of the Tree of Parting to preside over the whole affair. He’s tall for an elf a bit over 6ft. but stooped, like he spends a lot of time bent over a ledger. He smiles at the assembly and speaks.
Welcome all! We come together on this day to receive an accounting of the events of the past three days! We had an attack upon the Tree Wardens and visiting dignitary Gaston Laroutte by what seemed to be a Drow warrior. Later that same night A trapper by the name of Jryrial Hal was thrown off the Tree to his death by the same group of visiting drow! The crowed boo’s and hisses, call of “murderers!”, “Cursed Drow!” and other less savory names come from the crowd. Eclyandryl squeezes Leskni’s hand, but her demeanor changes. She stands up straighter and the worry on her face is replaced with a fierce resolve and noble bearing. She whispers something under her breath. Looks at Leskni and asks. “Will you and your compatriots bear true witness to the events? I thought that you would when you saved us, but I must admit that this crowd has tested my resolve. My own people would, if I could provide a benefit to them…I do not know how it is with your people. What could I offer you for the truth? [b]Heflanyl gets the crowd back under control with a bunch of shouting and waving. Once it’s back under control he speaks again. This is not a Trial. We aren’t going to put anybody in prison or hang anyone, at most we will shun folk who cause trouble. So you lot can put your bloodlust back in your pants and bear witness, that’s all you are here to do. Unless you have meaningful testimony to give in this affair just shut up and listen! First off we are going to have the Leader of the Drow contingent. Eclyandryl ne Lidrly Ortandanara, Senior Sister of House Dul'g would you come out and speak with us!
Carver and Leskni were assigned to escort Eclyandryl, and they walk beside her as she takes a seat opposite Heflanyl on the platform. Heflanylmotions for them to stand to each side of her and back while the questioning takes place. [HeflanylLady Eclyandryl, I hope you have been made comfortable, it is known to this body that you requested to be interviewed about this matter. I must also tell you that should you be found to be guilty of murder or attempted murder you will be shunned from entering the Tree of Parting forever. Eclyandryl: This I understand. . HeflanylGood, Now lady will you give us your version of the event that led to today? Eclyandryl:Yes, I am a Senior Sister in the ruling line of the House D’gul. My eldest Sister Nulesdryl is the leader of our house. Last year…no…Times have been hard for House D’gul for as long as I can remember. The destruction of the lava tubes by the Gold Dragons interrupted the flow of trade to our house. Nulesdryl spent most of her life merely struggling to hold our house together. In the last year she finally became secure enough in her power to begin to try and expand. She enlisted the aid of a few tribes of Orc and Goblins to try and disrupt trade and cause strife among the Humans and noble races around Izen. I did not understand her reasoning for doing this. We needed trade not war. The wars of times past almost destroyed us, how could falling back into the same habit that caused the war have any benefit to our people? When the Tree Wardens effectively put an end to the plan. I knew that there had to be a better way. An agent of Gaston’s who was working with us on the failed project approached us with a plan to discredit the Tree Wardens I felt it was a good chance to see what the lands of the Humans and noble races was like. I left with some of my trusted kin. I am not sure when Gaston’s man Killed my cousin and took his place, but I began to suspect something after the attack on the Wardens. The plan that I was given was to act belligerent and at cross purposes to Gaston in such a way as to sour the “negotiations’” and to use this to discredit the Wardens. Gaston would then use the leverage provided to get the Wardens kicked out of the tree. He seemed have a great hate towards the Wardens. I would like to know what they did to create such animosity. In any case once the attack came to my notice, then once my cousin acted strange in the presence of Leskni I determined that something was up with him. That night after the meeting, I had his wine drugged, it was a simple matter to detect and then disable his cover, then use my spells to contact the spirit of my deceased cousin and get the full story. I then had the assassin killed in just compensation for the death of my cousin. It was he who attacked the Wardens. Not my men. Then after we left the tree Gaston refused to render just recompense for the death of my cousin, in fact he somehow rendered us immobile and was in the process of killing my men, I thought it was the end for us, then the Wardens appeared as if from nowhere and stoped him. They saved us. Heflanyl:do you certify that your statement is true and accurate? Do you wish to change anything in your statement? Eclyandryl: Yes...no.. I have told the truth as I know it.
Heflanyl: Does anyone wish to cross question Lady Eclyandryl?
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet Sunday August 21st, 2016 9:57:21 PM
Before Eclyandryl stepped up, I'd have reassured her that we would speak the truth.
"I am unclear how these proceedings work so I hope that you will allow a respectful question from me. Do you wish to hear my evidence on what I myself saw and heard now, or should I wait until later to present it?
DM Shane: right now is the cross examination phase...but by all means put forth your corroborating or counter evidence towards the defendant. it will move things on a bit faster.
Armand (Robert D) AC 16/touch11/flat15 HP 41/41 CMD 16 Character Sheet Monday August 22nd, 2016 7:19:13 AM
Armand listens intently. Thinking to himself "Tree Wardens? What are Tree Wardens, oh wait that's us I think. Well that's a pretty good name."
Armand stands at Heflanyl's question. "Sir I would like to ask a follow up question. Eclyandryl, you said that your sister has been using orc's and goblin's to disrupt trade and that we had put an end to some scheme or project that was underway. Could you elaborate on what that scheme was and what Gaston's involvement in it was?"
(OOC, how much time passed between when we arrived at the tree and the festivities started? What time of day is it? How much rest have we had?")
'Osul(Graham) AC:11, HP:32/32 d20+12=32 ; d20+5=17 ; Monday August 22nd, 2016 8:59:08 AM
'Osul listens, observes and assesses. But there are all too many already watching Eclyandryl — 'Osul watches the watchers. Perception: 32, Sense Motive: 17
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet Monday August 22nd, 2016 5:05:25 PM
Atlas watches Armand's face as he seems to be considering something. On a guess he says, "It has a nice ring to it, doesn't it? It is a lot better than some of the other things I've heard thrown about." Atlas almost snorts when he laughs, thinking about some of the funny names that the group had come up with.
Atlas then listens to Armand ask his question. When there is a pause in the question and answering he stands up. "I do have a few questions. First, what was the symbol your sister used with her army of orcs and goblins? I'm guessing it is the 3 dots? Second, can you tell us more about your relationship with Gaston and his dealings with the drow? Who is this agent of his? This man claims to be many things and works very closely with a lot of powerful people. We need to know the extent of his evil ways. Any additional information you can provide to help us hold him accountable for his actions would be very helpful." Atlas pauses for a moment..."And for all that are here to listen, these drow are evil, have no doubt about it. However, this one here speaks the truth from everything I have heard. For what it is worth, I believe that her evil ways are a result of her environment, not who she truly is. To that end, I would like to recommend that she not be shunned from the Tree of Parting for the time being. Her guards are another story, but her I believe we can work with in the future."
For anyone that gives Atlas a quizzical look on his comment, he glares at them. If anyone corners him after, he tells that that it is obvious that Eclyandryl has the potential to be brought back from the evil that has consumed her. The guards on the other hand, he has no issue dispensing of them today. Or if Eclyandryl decides she doesn't want to come back then he is happy to do the same to her.
Mack (Trey posting for Eric) Monday August 22nd, 2016 5:14:19 PM
Mack sees the crowd gathering and he starts to head the other way. However, his curiosity gets the best of him and he turns around. There has to be some way to make this fun.
First, he starts by hanging on the outside of the filled up lift to get to the right level. He then manages to pick up and drop off many things that he's sure where his, but then realized that they were actually someone else's. Granted, he's not exactly sure if they all ended up in the right pockets, so he tries to move on before someone notices.
Eventually he finds a branch small enough that no one is around him, yet he can still see and hear the events. He walks out onto the branch and notices a cocoon. "Hello Mr. Butterfly. Oh wait, are you still a caterpillar in there? Well, either way, I hope you are OK. The weather has been a bit cold lately and I would hate for you to be trapped in there all winter. Would you survive? Would you survive out here if you did come out? Hmm, now I'm worried about you. Maybe I should take you off and see if we can have 'Osul look at you to make sure you're OK." Mack begins carefully taking the cocoon off the tree branch while he listens to the events below.
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet Monday August 22nd, 2016 6:46:44 PM "I can verify a great deal of what Eclyandryl has said. I overheard the entirety of the conversation between Gaston and her last night and Gaston admitted to having killed one of her guards and to having hired her and her group. That conversation did not make it clear exactly what they were hired to do,
In fact, Eclyandryl herself had basically requested that we be present (while hidden) at that meeting so as to find out for ourselves what was happening. She should get at least some credit for bringing the entire plot to light.
I had my suspicions of the one Drow and raised them with Eclyandryl. I am not at all surprised that he turned out not to be the guard but a replacement.
In her time here I've learned a fair bit about Drow Culture. While we might well not agree with it, by her standards she was completely within her rights to kill the person who had slain her cousin. In fact, it would have been an unacceptable weakness for her to not act in some manner to punish the crime. It was known when the Drow were invited to the Tree that they have different standards than we do, I think it would now be completely unfair and unjust to punish them for acting on those different standards, ESPECIALLY when the only one harmed by their acts was a murderer.
In the initial disturbance, the Drow were merely acting as agents for Gaston and care was taken that no permanent damage would be done to anybody of the Tree. Subsequently, they merely killed a murderer and a spy. None of the Drow should be banished from the Tree. If being Evil is a cause for being banished then why were they, or Orcs, invited in the first place?
Gaston and his associates, on the other hand, should be. Gaston was behind everything and bears the responsibility for everything that has happened"
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet Monday August 22nd, 2016 8:25:17 PM
Carver looks directly at the Drowess, "For some reason, Lord Gargul has blessed my vision in such ways as to determine good from evil. I believe that you are on a cusp point, a decision that will define your future from this point on. You are going to have to chose a side, in your heart you know this, but it's your mind that will make it one way or the other. I say until such time as she chooses, either to help us, or chooses to not help us there by allowing evil to proceed, she should be given sanctuary. She really does not have much time in making this decision, because shorty after we question Gaston's minions, we will be making our own choices and after that, it will be most likely too late for her decision to make much difference at all." Having said his piece about the Drowess, he waits for his real opportunity to ask real questions to those who worked for their enemy, Gaston.
Owen Marcellus (Weston W.) AC: 12/12/10; HP: 26/26; CMD: 15 Tuesday August 23rd, 2016 10:51:07 AM
OoC: Sorry guys. I tried to find a sub for the last several days, but that never really materialized.
IC: Owen is 356 pages into a book on the third Gnome/Halfling spellweaver council when he hears a hubbub outside. He ignores it for a while, until he hears shouting about drow. With a start, he realizes that today is the day of the trial! He hustles towards the commotion, pausing only to cuff Mack on the back of the head for picking people's pockets.
DM Shane Tuesday August 23rd, 2016 2:49:22 PM
You left the camp early that morning, you got to the tree an hour or so before sundown. they got the whole thing organized just after sunset. this all takes place approximately 14 hrs after the encounter with Gaston.
Armand: Eclyandry shrugs, The full details are not known to me, A group of goblins were sent south towards the tree to try and interdict trade caravans While a tribe of Orcs from the Red Hills were induced to do the same there. I few of the goblins made it back from the raid, but their tribe had been obliterated in raids. The same thing happened to the Orcs. I need to explain that My house was just recovering from many years of civil war, My sister had not the resources to hire masses of troops, I frankly don't know why she decided to hire the piddling amount of troops she did.
[b]‘Osul: Most of the Tree dwellers seem interested and curious. Miles, and the Ilyndrathyl's, Cyradryl, Folbre, and Hiflanyl seem to be focusing on the tasks at hand, namely providing security, selling drinks, managing the questioning, and managing tree loadout. The drovers and tradesmen, seem angry, "bloodlust" comes to mind.
Atlas: At your question Eclyandryl merely shows you the symbol around her neck, it's the same one the goblins had. As far as the Agent goes, no names were used and he kept his features covered, we have had dealings with him for several years, I did not know he represented Gaston until the current mission. He normally trades with us for some of the more exotic spices and poisons we can produce. We usually see him once or twice a year.
Mack: the Cocoon is dry and hollow, as you begin to fiddle with it, you notice the reason, Ant's had found it earlier and cored the meaty goodness from the inside to feed their nest.
Leskni: States her facts and opinions in defence of Eclyandry.
Carver: Eclyandryl says nothing, but her brow wrinkles and she looks confused. as if what you said was just beyond her capability of understanding, in the end, she merely nods, but you can tell she's working your words over in her mind trying to find what did not make sense.
Owen: gets caught up in his book, and does not realize the hearing has started, he runs out cuffing Mack on the ear on the way.
The Drovers and Tradesmen start getting rowdy. Cries of "Just kill the evil scum and be done with it!" The only Good Drow is a Dead Drow!" and other less savory cries rise from their ranks. Eclyandryl, stands up and moves back between Leskni and Carver as a portion of the crowd surges forward a few steps, fists and clubs raised in anger.
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet Tuesday August 23rd, 2016 2:52:26 PM
Atlas nods at Carver's comments, then leans over towards Armand and whispers, Highlight to display spoiler: {"I'm not saying I want her to join our group or anything, but I'm willing to spare her life if she is willing to reform. She'll never be allowed back home if that's the case though, so the logistics get difficult at that point. Probably best if she stays who she is and just goes home. Then we can deal with Gaston and follow up with her sister and her orc and goblin army. Finally, my sword may get some much needed use."}
Mack (Trey posting for Eric) Tuesday August 23rd, 2016 3:10:49 PM
Mack is suddenly struck with sadness at the realization that the caterpillar ended up being ant food. He knows that the circle of life is a good thing, but he cannot help but feel sorrow that the caterpillar didn't reach its full, beautiful potential.
His mood is somber now and he has lost interest in the proceedings. He climbs down from his branch and goes looking for some wildlife down at the base of the Tree to share his feelings with.
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet d20+11=30 ; Tuesday August 23rd, 2016 5:40:53 PM
Carver rears up and stomps both hooves down hard. (intimidate 30) "Sit down and shut up, or face me in a fight, and do you really want to face me in a fight? Most of you know, but for those who don't, I was trained in the art of war, as a youth and by mercenaries. I was then called by Lord Gargul, if we fight I will have no qualms in sending you to discuss your failings with him personally." He positions his shield in front of the Drowess and makes it obvious that he reaches back and rests his hand upon the hilt of his sword. Since he is already in armor, he's not too worried about what's going to happen here....
Armand (Robert D) AC 16/touch11/flat15 HP 41/41 CMD 16 Character Sheet d20+9=28 ; Tuesday August 23rd, 2016 5:52:42 PM
Armand rises and address the crowd. "People, People. This is not a call for blood. When has the Tree eliminated an offender against its trade customs? Would you kill out of simply blood lust? How does that make you different from the Drow, or an Orc? We are civilized we are trying to find out the facts of who is out to discredit the good name of the Tree of Parting. Would you allow the likes of Gaston to feel he is victorious in that the Tree would not honor its right of trade and passage!! And think on this, wouldn't it be a thorn in Gaston's side if the Tree itself became a trade partner with the Drow?" Diplomacy 28, d20+9
Armand sits and leans over to Atlas. Highlight to display spoiler: {"I'm not sure, she may be okay by Drow standards still. I don't know what their customs are and if she goes back with the pay so much the better. Also who knows, she may try to make a power play for leading the house herself. Though I agree, she can go off and do whatever, I really don't trust her enough to welcome her to the Wardens."}
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet d20+14=24 ; Tuesday August 23rd, 2016 10:24:36 PM
Leskni whistles and Pella comes, enlarges himself and flies directly over Eclyandryl's head
"Everybody calm down. Nobody needs to get hurt here. But, as Carver said, if people DO get hurt it will be the people starting the violence who will suffer the most"
Diplomacy check of 24 to calm down the crowd.
'Osul(Graham) AC:11, HP:32/32 d20+2=22 ; Wednesday August 24th, 2016 9:08:21 AM "There will be no violence here, if for no better reason than it is a cold night out there, and no shelter to be found for days. This gathering is already in session. Adding more matters to the schedule would be simple enough..."
Diplomacy (Aid Armand: 22 vs 10 for +2)
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet d20+3=8 ; Wednesday August 24th, 2016 1:51:26 PM
Atlas chuckles to himself, finding this sudden uproar to be quite amusing. Not because he wants the drow to die, but because he isn't worried about the people of the Tree doing anything stupid as long as Carver is up there. Left to their own devices the mob mentality might take over, but he's pretty confident they'll calm down.
Atlas talks out load to Armand and anyone else listening, "Gotta like their spirit! However, they're smart folk, they won't do anything stupid. Just blowing off some steam, as they should considering recent events."
Atlas decides that enough has been said by the rest of the group to calm the situation, even if he felt like it was a bit more harsh than it needed to be at first. He watches the crowd and waits for things to settle down. He clearly doesn't seen anything worth noting.
Perception: 1d20+3=8.
Owen Marcellus (Weston W.) AC: 12/12/10; HP: 26/26; CMD: 15 Wednesday August 24th, 2016 2:01:33 PM
The crowd's fury makes Owen hesitant, but he goes to the front regardless. He stands with Atlas and hopes his age will add some legitimacy to the party's claims.
Mack (Trey posting for Eric) Wednesday August 24th, 2016 2:03:58 PM
Mack hears the uproar above as he is on his way to the ground. He hopes his friends are OK, then realizes that not many people at the Tree can really hurt his friends, so he doesn't worry about it any longer. He finally gets to the ground and goes in search of some wildlife to speak with about the loss of his butter fly.
On his way, he encounters a trail of ants going about their business. He has mixed feelings about them right now, but he steps over them. It's not their fault that they are who they are.
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet Wednesday August 24th, 2016 9:36:41 PM
Just checking in
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet Wednesday August 24th, 2016 11:29:52 PM
Carver continues to stare down the rioters...... (checking in)
'Osul(Graham) AC:11, HP:32/32 Thursday August 25th, 2016 9:06:15 AM
To Atlas, and likely in earshot of Armand: "No, Atlas, I really don't see this as spirit at all, let alone be likeable. I have siblings ... I know what keeping children up past their bedtime and expecting them to pay attention looks like. Now imagine they are adults with their access to ale cut off! Most of those called to witness are no worse off than they were two days ago. The actually aggrieved in all this are being unexpectedly stoic for the most part. Me — I'm glad I recognize that I'm only toying with the merest notion of dropping some giant spiders on their heads. I know, I'm not going to do it - I'm a good way from anywhere near sufficiently inclined - but I find the idea appeals to me ... just a little." (checking in)
Atlas (Trey posting for Eric) Thursday August 25th, 2016 10:25:18 AM
Atlas acknowledges what 'Osul is saying, but he hasn't bought in yet. "I'm not so sure..." He leaves that statement hanging as he scans the crowd.
Atlas is looking to see who makes up the crowd and how many people are estimated to be there. Who are the people starting the fuss? Are they people we know from living at the Tree for so long (the 25 staff, the 10 permanent residents, or some of the people renting), or are they the people from the wagons who stop in nightly?
If it is the locals then he's not so worried, but if any of the strangers from the wagons are involved then he nods a thanks to 'Osul, "Right then, maybe we should get up there with Carver and Leskni." He heads up making sure that Armand and 'Osul are with him.
Highlight to display spoiler: { changed Header on request JCC}
Mack (Trey posting for Eric) Thursday August 25th, 2016 10:41:29 AM
Mack finds a bunny that seems like he is up awfully late. He asks him why and the bunny makes some squeaky noises. Mack interprets that as the bunnies partner was snoring, but he's not exactly sure if he got that right or not. He then tells the bunny about the butterfly and it listens intently. At the end Mack feels better. He pets the bunny for a moment, but all the noise coming from the Tree has him a bit worried again. "I think I should head up and check in on my friends. You try to go back to sleep little bunny. I'll hopefully see you again soon."
With that, Mack heads back up the Tree to see what all the fuss is about.
DM Shane Thursday August 25th, 2016 1:10:43 PM
With the combination of Carrot (diplomacy) and stick (intimidation) The group stops it's advance, a few even fall back out of fear. One fellow, a rather portly man in his middle forties dressed in an expensive doublet, fine silk pants, and exquisite boots, stands out from the rest, his face is red with anger, spittle flecks his lips. He roars You mean to tell me you are going to let this murdering dogs daughter walk?! She as much as admitted that she was behind the goblin raids last year! besides she's a drow, you can't trust a word they say! .
Heflanyl speaks up. No Tom Branif, it's you who can't be trusted, Every by gods year you've conned me into cutting deals for you, allowing you to stay at the Triple T on credit, sold you our goods on credit as well. You are into us for over 1000 gp, and here you are with new clothes, a new mule team and even a few retainers! No Tom, if you open your blubbery lips one more time to disrupt these proceedings you can cross the Tree of Parting off of your list of places to succor in the future. Isn't that right Miles!?
Miles merely nods, his eyes cold as the winter winds.
Tom, quiets down, but it's easy to see that he's still angry, and contemplating something.
Mack: bunnies fill the fall night, you befriend one, and pour out your sorrow to the creature. then emptied of sadness you head back up to the tree.
Carver: Fist training pays off yet again, were you channeling your old drill sergeant? or have you taken his lessons to heart? Who knows, but you do know, you even scared yourself a bit with that outburst.
Atlas: makes his way to the scene of the conflict, supporting his brothers in arms.
Leskni: Pella now grown to an intimidating size swoops over the crowd, lending weight to Leskni's plea for calmness.
Armand: Eloquent as always, your words calm some of the less involved and convince them that their actions are foolish at best, dangerous and stupid at worst.
Owen: makes his way to the gathering.
‘Osul: talks with Atlas about the relative merits of spiders on morale.
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet d20+10=16 ; Thursday August 25th, 2016 1:32:16 PM
Atlas looks to the people running the show, "Should we continue with the show? We need to speak to Gaston's servants as well. If we do, I suggest that we keep Eclyandry out here with us. I'm not interested in going back later tonight and finding out that Tom here found a way to kill her in her room."
Atlas walks over to Tom and stands just behind and to his right. He is close enough that his sword hilt bumps into him a few times. Atlas then puts his shield on his arm as he stands there, speaking to no one in particular, "Ahh, she always surprises me how well she fits. She has to you know, otherwise my arm gets twisted when I push these spikes through a monsters skull." He continues to stand there waiting for things to proceed.
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet Thursday August 25th, 2016 3:11:13 PM
To Tom: "This woman has bravely stood up here and told the truth tonight. How do I know? She has admitted things against her own interest. Let us see if these humans are brave enough to do the same"
To the others "I think that Eclyandryl definitely needs to stay here to witness the guards testimony. She knows more than us, and may know what questions to answer. And, of course, we have to ensure that she remains safe"
Armand (Robert D) AC 16/touch11/flat15 HP 41/41 CMD 16 Character Sheet d20+10=27 ; Thursday August 25th, 2016 7:11:33 PM
Armand muses..."Follow the money, that's what dad always used to say. People in power pay others to do their work, if someone turns up with more coin than he should, he's being paid by someone more powerful."
Armand stands and speaks. "I'd rather skip the Drow guards testimony, we already have their leaders and we have confirmed it. Let's bring out James and see what he knows."
Armand walks over to Miles and quietly talks to him. "Say Miles, it occurs to me that Gaston would be the type to have a spy planted at the tree. A long term spy that would know the ins and outs of things and could report such things to him. Now I ask you, if this fellow Tom Branif has been running a tab but has the coin to have new clothes and retainers, doesn't that strike you as a Gaston like trait? I wonder how he is going to act with James testifying?"
While talking to Miles, Armand quietly catches Atlas's attention and gives Atlas the prearranged signal for bad cop and indicates Tom Branif as the target. Armand will watch Tom during the next testimony, hopefully James. Sense Motive 27 (d20+10).
Owen Marcellus (Weston W.) AC: 12/12/10; HP: 26/26; CMD: 15 Thursday August 25th, 2016 7:46:39 PM
Owen watches the various proceedings and wishes for his quiet library.
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet Thursday August 25th, 2016 10:49:51 PM "Bring in Gaston's compatriots, it's time to ask them questions and get some answers out of them....."
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet d20+10=23 ; Friday August 26th, 2016 10:11:00 AM
Atlas sees Armand's signal and decides to up his intimidation game, "Hey Tom...oops, sorry about that, I know those spikes are sharp, I didn't mean to catch you with one." Atlas slides over to Tom's left side and firmly puts his right hand on his left shoulder as they look on the proceedings together, being not so subtle about it. "You know, it would be a very bad thing if you decided to do something stupid tonight. However, you don't seem all that smart, so I'm a bit concerned I will have to kill you. Maybe I should cut you now so you understand I mean business. Then maybe I don't have to kill you later? Would that help you make the smart decision tonight?"
Atlas looks at Armand and winks. He's proud of his bad cop, but in reflecting on it he sees that there is room for improvement. Thinking about how he went a little overboard causes him to chuckle to himself, which is likely to concern Tom even more.
Atlas takes a glance around at the other people standing around him and Tom. Those he knows from the Tree he nods to and smiles. Those that are not in such good standing or are unknown he scowls at.
Mack (Trey posting for Eric) Friday August 26th, 2016 1:05:19 PM
Mack makes it back to the lift and up to the gathering just in time to hear the latest comment from Carver. He looks around and sees each of his friends and is intrigued by Atlas' new friend. Isn't that Troy, or Tim, or...hmm, what is his name? His clothes have so many pockets with nothing useful in them. Why has Atlas taken a liking to him?
Mack decides he'll go find out, so he heads over to Atlas. "Hey there Atlas, what's up with your new friend? You two got real close real fast. Have you been drinking?"
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet Friday August 26th, 2016 11:59:22 PM
Checking in
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet Saturday August 27th, 2016 7:29:40 AM
Carver's impatience begins to show as he starts tapping his left front hoof.....
'Osul(Graham) AC:11, HP:32/32 Sunday August 28th, 2016 8:07:04 PM "Is there a problem locating Gaston's companions?", he asks the table, particularly looking to Miles.
DM Shane Sunday August 28th, 2016 10:29:51 PM
In due time both James and Olrich are brought out. James hangs his head low, while Olrich acts as though he's walking into a tavern.
Olrich takes the stand first.
Heflanyl goes through the basic speel then asks Olrich to state his name.
Olrich My name is Olrich Gunarson. Tiger company, First Troop, 3rd infrantry, Van Olstens fist.
Heflanyl looks surprised, You..you are of the Mailed Fist??!
OlrichYes sir. My outpost was contacted to provide a soldier to escort Gaston to a meeting at the Tree of parting. I may have given you the wrong toop designation. There has been a reorganization in the Mailed Fist, so it may have changed by the time I get back. .
Heflanyl so can you tell us what you know of this fiasco.
Olrich Yes sir, once the contract was made I was assigned to escort Gaston out here. I had ridden with Captain VanKlempt for a while, so I knew the area pretty well. He kept his intentions close, I knew nothing of his intentions toward the Tree Wardens, shoot I didn't even know he was meeting drow out here. By the time I realized he was working with them, I had a posioned arrow in my side and was dreming of my girl in Plateau City. Once I get back to Plateau City I'll file a report at the outpost and we will take Gaston off our client list. Depending on what the Captain thinks we may bring charges against him, that's above my pay grade though.
Heflanyl Why would he hire a Mercenary instead of one of his own men?
Olrich Couldn't say, Sir, I would conjecture that his own troops are too poor o quality to effect proper protection. but that's just my opinion . Oh...I did hear Gaston mention that he had a few other agents at the tree making preparations, but I head no names or numbers.
there is a small disturbance in the crowd. Ryan Inger the travelling Scholar steps froward. I guess I'd be one of those agents you were talking about. before I came here I was in Plateau City and a man approached me about getting some informaiton about the Heros of the Tree. I didn't think anything of it, many scholars get info from other scholars when writing a book about such things. I'm sorry if anything I did added to the difficulty you folk had. .
Heflanyl, looks to the party, Questions?
Mack: approaches Atlas and his new friend, Which seems to make the new friend even more nervous for some reason.
Carver: impatient for answers taps his hoof in frustration.
Atlas: you smell something once you have your chat with the portly man, his face flushes red, he won't meet your eyes and a stain appears on his breeches.
Leskni: once again voices her defense of Eclyandryl. and suggests that she stay with the party on the viewing platform to prevent any problems later on.
Armand: catches on that there may be more spies here than first thought. his good cop/bad cop routine yields a voided bladder and a thoughtful Miles. Miles: you know, those star mage guys, have been hanging around here and not doing much of anything. he shrugs.
Owen: not used to this kind of hullabaloo, wishes for a quieter time.
‘Osul: mirrors Carvers impatients.
Owen Marcellus (Weston W.) AC: 12/12/10; HP: 26/26; CMD: 15 Sunday August 28th, 2016 11:15:11 PM
Owen perks up at the mention of the Star Mages. "Yeah, Miles, they were acting pretty shady. I couldn't get a straight answer out of them when I was asking about joining up."
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet Monday August 29th, 2016 10:17:03 AM
Atlas chuckles, "Tom, you might want to go clean yourself up. I would recommend going to bed early after that."
He then turns towards Ryan, "Ryan, what exactly did you share? Do you have a journal or anything that you could corroborate what you say?"
Atlas then thinks on what Olrich told them. "Carver, is there any way to confirm what Olrich is saying about his duty as a member of the Mailed Fist and the contract they signed with Gaston?" He then turns to Olrich, "Olrich, can you think of anything else that would be useful for us to know? Did Gaston meet with anyone here at the Tree that we haven't discussed yet? Also, What role did James play in all this from your perspective?"
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet d20+8=22 ; Monday August 29th, 2016 10:57:13 AM
The story sounds very plausible but Leskni still wants to see if she believes it (Sense Motive of 22)
"Were you present for any conversations between Gaston and any Drow? If you were (or overheard them) please tell us as exactly as you remember what was said"
Mack (Eric R) AC: 16 (T 16 FF 13), CMD: 15; HP 38/38, Speed: 30' Monday August 29th, 2016 12:49:28 PM
I step slightly away from Tom once I realize what has happened.
OOC: Thanks for the excellent coverage last week, Atlas! :)
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet d20+5=15 ; Monday August 29th, 2016 1:11:35 PM
Carver catches Olrich's eye as he's speaking, using a couple of simple hand gestures he indicates to Olrich that he went through training at the Citadel. (since motive 15 to get the point across) " Leskni, if the person who was put into the Drowess' guard detail was wearing a hat of disguise, I doubt very much that anyone that Gaston spoke with would look like a Drow. Atlas, Contracts are eventually sent to the Citadel and filed away and gone over for errors in phraseology by those trained in the arcane verses of contracts. And I'm not talking about those trained in use of magic. As to proof, once a commanding officer issues orders, you follow them to the best of your abilities, the chances that he has a copy of the Contract on him is so close to zero and you couldn't slip a hair in between. Other than that, the Mailed Fist will accept most any contract from anyone, unless that someone is on the restricted or banned list. Don't asked me how decisions are made, they're made at a much higher level than most of the soldiers that are in the field. As mercenaries, anyone can hire them, consider the Mailed Fist basically Amoral in choosing contracts. Certain Commanders choose more good than not good contracts as I'd say we'd judge them, while others are just the opposite. It's been known that one commander would refuse a contract and another would accept it, as long as they wouldn't be fighting against The Mailed Fist, although I'd not guarantee that anymore after the rumors that I've heard."
Armand (Robert D) AC 16/touch11/flat15 HP 41/41 CMD 16 Character Sheet d20+10=27 ; Monday August 29th, 2016 6:00:42 PM
Armand is surprised by Miles statement. "I never thought of them, I figured they were just being aloof wizard types. Is there a way we can ascertain their actually being mages or part of the guild?" He asks of both Miles and Owen.
Then he walks over to Tom and Atlas, giving Atlas a subtle nod. "Tom such fine clothes, where did you get them? I didn't think they sold anything so fancy at the Tree. Do you think I can find something like that around here?"[b] Armand leans over to Atlas [b]"Big man are you giving the poor merchant a fright with your spiky shield. Don't you know that can ruin a good set of clothes. Why don't you go make yourself useful and bother those Star Mage chaps. Maybe Mack can help you?" Armand winks at Atlas so Tom cannot see.
Armand sits next to Tom. "I think you may need a change of clothes there Tom. Maybe you should get a change of clothing. But then you could miss what would be happening. WE wouldn't want that. There's not telling what juicy bits could be revealed."
He calls out, "Leskni I doubt Olrich knows what was said between Gaston and the Drow as he was already rendered unconscious by their poison dart."
Armand turns to Tom again. "I hope James is okay to talk, he's not looking so good. But being Gaston's valet or whatever I'm sure he has all kinds of things to talk about. I'd hate to be one of those spies and be named by him. I'd try to beat him to the punch and confess to Heflanyl, revealing all I knew and throwing myself at their mercy."
Still doing Sense Motive 27 (d20+10) on Tom, and will be alert for what James would have to say.
DM Shane Monday August 29th, 2016 10:33:58 PM Mack: the odor of pee is stong with that one, you step away as he rushes past you.
Carver: Olrich looks you in the eye, smiles and makes a gesture so like Commader Constance Palance that it takes you back to the "Morality and Ethics" class she taught so many years ago. As you speak of infighting his face takes on a somber cast. Indeed, it would seems so. Pavillon Neutronis is dead. So are the commanders of Bear and Tiger companies. I respected Gunter, but I think that Pavillion led him wrong on this one and he paid the price. Bear and Tiger companies are to be decommissioned soon, We may become a combained arms regiment under Wolf, Eagle or Snake, but there is going to be a paring down of force size in the near future. it's part of the terms of Armistis, we are to reduce down from a corps to regiment size. Thats going to hurt, but I think i'm secure...I got seniority, a clean record and the captain likes me. I don't think there are enough of us now to even fight each other.
Atlas: Tom colors so much he almost turns purple, muttering under his breath he storms off.
Ryan Inger shrugs and reaches into his satchel, he pulls out a leather bound journal and flips through it, coming to the correct pages he bookmarks it and hands it to you. he smiles I trust you won't submit my work to acedemia and try to take credit for it he says it as a joke, but you can tell that letting you read his journal is something that is not done lightly.
Olrich shakes his head. there was no one on the route here, and you guys were watching us the whole time we were at the tree, I didn't have him in view the whole time, the suite we stayed in had a private room that only he and James would enter. The first I saw of him in collusion with the Drow was when we were leaving, I though it strange when he grudgingly gave succor to that vagabond on the road, I had no idea he was to meet someone.
Leskni: Olrich seems to be sincere. Ma'am the only converstiaons I heard with the drow was when they got in the shouting match at the first meeting, and when they confronted him out in the plains. other than that you know as much as I do.
Armand: you walk over to Tom and begin talking to him, but your words are lost in his frenzied rush to escape the embarrassment of pee pee britches. You call out to Leskni confirming what Olrich himself has said. Miles shruges and says You guys are the spell slingers, I wouldn't know detect magic from clairvoyance
Owen: Confirms that the Star Mages were acting a bit squirrely.
‘Osul: ?
'Osul(Graham) AC:11, HP:32/32 d20+12=17 ; d20+5=9 ; Tuesday August 30th, 2016 1:01:57 AM
'Osul tries to keep tabs on things - nothing to add to the conversation currently, though he is learning more about the Mailed Fist than he was expecting. {Perception: 17, Sense Motive: 9}
Mack (Eric R) AC: 16 (T 16 FF 13), CMD: 15; HP 38/38, Speed: 30' Tuesday August 30th, 2016 7:12:15 AM
I head over to chat with the Star Mages. "Hey, why do they call you guys the Star Mages? Are you, like, astronomers? Or maybe you're burning hot? Or are you just famous? Can you do any cool magic tricks?"
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet Tuesday August 30th, 2016 10:12:31 AM
Atlas looks about until he finally catches sight of the Star Mages. Interesting that they are still here. Maybe they cannot hear from their vantage point? Or maybe they are confident that we cannot prove anything. Hmm, or maybe they just didn't do anything. Atlas breaks off his thought at the sight of Mack approaching them. Saying to no one in particular, "This will be a treat." He heads over.
As he approaches he hears Mack go on with his questions. He walks up behind him and puts a hand on his shoulder. "So, what have you learned my friend? Are they Gaston spies as well, or just scholarly wizards getting caught up in this witch hunt?" Atlas smiles at the Mages. "Go ahead, answer my friends questions first, it is only polite. Then we can address the Gaston thing."
Owen Marcellus (Weston W.) AC: 12/12/10; HP: 26/26; CMD: 15 Tuesday August 30th, 2016 2:32:52 PM
Owen follows Mack and Atlas over to the Star Mages. He doesn't press them with more questions, but he does cock an eyebrow to show that he awaits their response.
Armand (Robert D) AC 16/touch11/flat15 HP 41/41 CMD 16 Character Sheet d20+4=11 ; Tuesday August 30th, 2016 5:10:05 PM
Armand considers that Tom leaving may not be a good idea. He returns to Miles. "Do you have any guards that can keep an eye on Tom since he is going off to change clothes? I'd go but I don't want to miss James's testimony, and of him I have several questions that will probably pop up."
Armand eyes the crowd. Perception 11 (d20+4) He has lost sight of Atlas. He sighs.
Turning again to Miles he asks, "Do you know when James will be testifying?"
'Osul(Graham) AC:11, HP:32/32 d20+12=32 ; d20+5=22 ; Tuesday August 30th, 2016 5:27:14 PM
'Osul is somewhat distracted by Atlas' antics, and leaves the questions for the proceedings alone {Perception: 32, Sense Motive: 22}
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet Tuesday August 30th, 2016 10:04:34 PM
Carver decides Olrich has basically told all he knows or at least all he can tell without orders from a higher ranking officer. He watches him closely to see if he returns any hand signals.... He waits for the other person who was working for Gaston to be brought in for questioning. While waiting, "Everyone will shut up, or you'll find out if you are part bird on your way down to ground level. We are holding an inquiry here, not a mob scene."
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet Tuesday August 30th, 2016 10:50:50 PM
Leksni just watches the various shows in amusement, while making sure that nobody is an active threat at this point in time.
"I think we've learned as much as we can from him. I suggest we move on?"
'Osul(Graham) AC:11, HP:32/32 Wednesday August 31st, 2016 2:18:00 AM
'Osul whispers out the side of his mouth (all inconspicuous-like), "Isn't it still a little too soon to be bringing up the falling-to-one's-imminent-death thing?"
Mack (Eric R) AC: 16 (T 16 FF 13), CMD: 15; HP 38/38, Speed: 30' Wednesday August 31st, 2016 7:28:10 AM
I shrink down a little bit at Carver's shoutings, thinking for a brief moment he's directing it towards me... and I look down to see just how far it might be.
DM Shane Wednesday August 31st, 2016 2:05:23 PM
When the Star Mages are approached by Mach, Owen and Atlas, the begin to get a bit nervous. it's funny, if you didn't know better you could have sworn they were covertly making their way to the viewing platform exit. Johnathan Tanner, the human speaks. We..uh..We have been called back to the Star Mages guild on pressing business...the uh...um...Flibberty in the Cranston Jibbit has increased by a Factor of .035, necessitating a needed mana expenditure of, as you know, 4.3. We must make haste! Pyram Greycloak the elf speaks up as well, Indeed brother....we need to flib...what he said so we gotta make tracks. It's pretty clear the duo was not expecting to get caught, their attempt at subterfuge was so blatant it didn't even require a roll. in the breathless pause, before you can speak further...they look at each other then turn as one and run towards the exit. Straight toward a young elf who's chatting up a couple of the tree residence who were acting as guards/stewards for the event.
Carver: Olrich give the signal for all clear, once he hears that James will be brought out. the crowd shuts up, only to start up again when the Star Mages start running.
Leskni: Lenski echoes the sentiment that James be brought out.
Armand: Miles says: He's on his way. There are two guards at the Triple T watching the drow and James.
‘Osul: whispers to Toms retreating back a veiled threat.
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet d20+8=17 ; d20+3=6 ; Wednesday August 31st, 2016 3:37:45 PM
Atlas leaps at the Star Mages and tries to knock them off balance. While doing so he yells, "Stop them, they are spies! Everyone, now! Guards, grab that one too! Atlas is clearly speaking to everyone that is standing around, expecting that their reputation with the people of the Tree will get them the help they need rather than a group of sheep standing around and watching. He also expects the guards to become alert and grab the elf that is talking to them, as he points at him when he finishes his last statement.
He doesn't grab anyone, instead he tries to knock them over as he runs towards the one in the lead. Better to slow them down and then try to grab them than to grab one and let the rest get away.
-------------------------------------------- ooc: I don't have a clue what to role here, so I'm going to throw some d20s on the board and see if any stick.
Owen Marcellus (Weston W.) AC: 12/12/10; HP: 26/26; CMD: 15 Wednesday August 31st, 2016 4:56:39 PM
Owen is shocked for a moment--there hasn't been that great a Flibberty shift since the ring of James the Spiteful was shattered! Then he realizes that the men are talking nonsense. Manna is part of divine magic. Whoever heard of 'mana' with one 'n'?
Unfortunately the men have already started to run away by the time Owen catches on. He sees Atlas leap and point at an elf who appears to be casting a spell...
Armand (Robert D) AC 16/touch11/flat15 HP 41/41 CMD 16 Character Sheet d20+4=13 ; Wednesday August 31st, 2016 5:19:43 PM
Armand looks up at the commotion Atlas shouting has caused. Assuming a 13 Perception will see what's going on.
Armand casts Hold Person on the person running away that Atlas is not attacking. Will save target 15 to avoid freezing.
And then says to Miles, "I'm really beginning to think that Gaston may have quite a few operatives here. I wish we send someone after Tom."
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet Wednesday August 31st, 2016 5:38:15 PM "This may all be some kind of diversion. Pella and I will stay here to make sure nothing particularly untoward happens. The rest of you go get those 3 idiots."
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet Wednesday August 31st, 2016 5:39:53 PM
Seeing the Mage's start to make a run for it, "Leskni, watch over the crowd!" Carver barks out the order as he takes off at a full gallop from a standing start.... Using his training as a Centaur and his time other places he will charge the Mages, hitting the one Atlas didn't with his shield. (Centaur charge feat, charging can have turns and twists, only last 10 feet straight line.)
DM Shane d20+10=28 ; d20+10=20 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+6=9 ; d20+6=21 ; d20+6=26 ; d20+10=30 ; Thursday September 1st, 2016 8:01:35 AM
it's a bit of a surprise when they start running, their words we so asinine and blatantly made up it could almost count as a -1 level hold person spell. Everyone breaks from the "wow what a bunch of idiots spell" at the same time, Atlas attempts to trip Johnathan, but the wily mage oversteps the trip without even a stumble. Armands spell is true but the feeling elf shrugs it off. The guards at the entrance start to turn toward the commotion. The elf makes some motions with something in his hand and a thick sticky mass of webs jet from his fingers to anchor themselves to the gate entrance gate posts. Johnathan, unable to stop in time runs smack dab into it and is entangled. Pyram perhaps lighter or quicker on the uptake skids to a stop with barely an inch to spare. He sighs in relief, but it is short lived as Carvers shield body checks him into it with an audible Thump.
Heflanly is right behind carver, he moves around him and speaks. AH HA..I knew something was up with you two! The Star Mages don't pay people to hang around a Tavern and act snotty to everyone! Tell us what you know or I swear we will drop you off of this walkway still in the web! Tell me to buzz off will you, you santamonious stuck up, little pfist ants! Talk! He seems a bit exercised about these two and it shows. His eyes bulge with righteous fire and he shakes he fist at the back of the two's heads.
The cultured accents of the two are replaced with the gutter speak of Plateau City. Aw right..aw right, jeeze gubna, you got us fair and square. Gaston paid the Thieves guild to come out here and keep an eye on you. Right? But we ain't done nutin, but watch you louts hang about the tree and stuff...We didn't kill nobody, nor steal nutin, we just watched...Like ol' Ryan over there...how come you ain't threatin' him? Pleads the one known as Johnathan. The elf, Pyram merely mumbles...he got a mouth full of webs that has him effectively gagged.
Mack: ?
Leskni: The crowd is...it's like the crowd at a sports event, heads crane to watch, things get quiet for a moment, a little cheer starts when the web goes up and a Massed OOOOHHH! when Carver delivers 1600 lbs of really sick body check...it was epic, the elf actually hit his shield twice, once into the web and again on the rebound. Armand:
Owen: Truly a flibberty of that magnitude is almost unheard of, not even since the Wizard of ID has a Cranston jibbit been evoked.
‘Osul: ?
'Osul(Graham) AC:11, HP:32/32 d20+12=16 ; d20+5=23 ; Thursday September 1st, 2016 9:51:08 AM
'Osul, seeing most everything is in hand over here, looks to Ryan, and what his next move is. {Perception: 16, Sense Motive: 23}
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet Thursday September 1st, 2016 9:54:49 AM
Atlas laughs out loud at the site of the Centaur's body check. As he approaches, "Well done Carver! I'll wrap these two up. Can you get back and make sure the other prisoners are not being disposed of while we have this distraction going on? We'll bring these two up for questioning after James."
He then turns to the elf who cast the web spell. "Thank you. And who might you be?"
Atlas does his best working around the webs to restrain the two thieves while he talks to the elf. He hands them both to Miles and the guards with a request to take them to the front where the questioning is going on. He then heads to the front himself, pulling the elf wizard along with him so that they can continue their discussion.
Armand (Robert D) AC 16/touch11/flat15 HP 41/41 CMD 16 Character Sheet d20+4=12 ; Thursday September 1st, 2016 12:16:54 PM
Armand looks around (Perception 12) and quickly asks Miles. "Is there another way of this level? I suddenly think we need to check on James and why he has not been brought up yet.
He starts heading as quickly as possible to get to James at the Tavern.
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet Thursday September 1st, 2016 3:01:05 PM
Carver breathes a sigh of relief..... under his breath he mumbles something only Atlas can hear because he's so close. "Darned glad they didn't jump off, not sure about casting that feather spell in all this armor...." In reply, "On it..." He heads back inside, hoping that he has made an impression on the crowd and won't have to put his hood down more than one or two more times.....
Mack (Eric R) AC: 16 (T 16 FF 13), CMD: 15; HP 38/38, Speed: 30' Thursday September 1st, 2016 3:20:54 PM "Well, you guys are just lucky everyone held me back."
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet Thursday September 1st, 2016 8:34:55 PM
Nothing to really add here. Leskni just keeps on watching the crowd.
Owen Marcellus (Weston W.) AC: 12/12/10; HP: 26/26; CMD: 15 Thursday September 1st, 2016 10:22:16 PM
Owen looks at 'ol Ryan over there. Folding his arms, he says, "So, Ryan, I'm told I should be threatening you. What have you got to say for yourself?"
Mack (Eric R) AC: 16 (T 16 FF 13), CMD: 15; HP 38/38, Speed: 30' d20+17=27 ; Friday September 2nd, 2016 7:25:57 AM
Now that I've helped get those good-for-nothing Star Mages under control, I wander off to a quiet corner somewhere, to keep my eye out for other no-good-doers.
(d20+17 perception check of 27)
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet Friday September 2nd, 2016 12:51:02 PM
Atlas stops with the wizard up front and listens to his story while they wait for James.
'Osul(Graham) AC:11, HP:32/32 Friday September 2nd, 2016 6:33:47 PM
'Osul continues to monitor Ryan.
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet Friday September 2nd, 2016 10:09:34 PM
Checking in before going to bed :-)
Armand (Robert D) AC 16/touch11/flat15 HP 41/41 CMD 16 Character Sheet Friday September 2nd, 2016 11:06:27 PM "Excuse me Miles, but I think that if Gaston has made a deal with the thieves guild, then there may be more afoot. What if one of his operatives is freeing James?" Armand hurries to get to where James is being held.
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet Saturday September 3rd, 2016 6:23:41 PM
Carver stands in the meeting room, making sure that the crowd behaves, since the others have the thieves under control.
DM Shane Sunday September 4th, 2016 8:56:22 PM Mack: Purposefully wanders to where he can keep an eye on the crowd.
Carver: does as well, wondering at how the encounter could have gone wrong.
Atlas: talks with the Efl,
Leskni: keeps her eye on the crowd
Armand: thinknig something may be up takes one of the ladder passages to the Tripe T to check on James.
Owen: Ryan shrugs, Heck Owen, I'm sorry as heck if caused ya'll any trouble. It didn't seem like that big of a deal. Scholars ask this kind of thing all the time. It was just a little extra money for some work I was going to do anyway. I hadn't even sent in a report on ya'll yet. I will not be giving the contact who asked me for it any of it..not will I be taking their gold. I think I'm going to ask Arnos Falk, if he'd like to go in on a partnership doing a novel about the Tree Wardens. I'll leave if you want me to, but I'd actually like to stay for year and work on this story.
[b]‘Osul: Osul, listens to Ryan
The elf replies. “You’re welcome. I am Beordir Nalas-Radin, lately come from the Verdent Sprawl” he gestures back toward where Culver wood lies.
When Armand gets to the Triple T, the door swings open to reveal broken furniture, spilled drinks and the Two guards and Drow setting atop the bound forms of Tom and a half dozen of the other rabble rouser. they are sleeping soundly despite split lips, black eyes and other signs of a serious butt whooping. The guards and Drow have the same injuries, but seem to have bonded a bit through a challenge over come . [bBboolia[/b], who was acting as a guard smiles when she sees you, Hey Armand, This yahoo, brought a few of his buddies with him to try and "teach those dirty drow a lesson" when we started having trouble with them the Drow left their rooms and came down to help. Didja know that Drow sleep poison works just as good on a fork as it does on a crossbow bolt or dagger? HEE HEE...I haven't had that much fun in years! The other guard is on his way down with James.
James arrives and is sworn in by Heflanyl and asked all the preliminary questons. James looks very angry, his arms are crossed and his lips are pursed in anger. What do I know? I'll Tell you what I know! I know everything that sorry son of a diseased cow planned. He's a sorry no good for nothing low life no account, backstabbing, pussilanomous not worth of the title human being. He hates you all Mack, Armand, Atlas, Carver, Leskni, Osul and Owen. Gods how mant times have I heard him gripe and moan about you all. Yes he's the one who hired the Drow. He's the one who sent agents to spy on you. More than just the Theives, they were the only ones at the tree when he came, those two and the Assassin. He hired the assassin to kill the drow in order to make you all look worse. He is an idiot. The only reason I worked for him is because he owns my gambling debts, the only reason I came out here was because this was going to pay them off. I got a bucket of manure dropped on my head, I got shot by drow, I've no longer got an employer and I'm stuck out here in the middle of nowhere with no money and a tree full of people who want to kill me. I sick to death of his shinanagans, You have all the info you need. fat lot of good it will do you, he's got family on the ruling counsel of Plateau City. I can't go back there, I don't have the stroke to survive knowing what I know now. I'm in a cleft stick, and it's all that ^%%&*((*^$@%^ Gastons fault. When he got you all kicked out of the tree he was going to leverage you being destitute to make you work for him, he was going to make you do a bunch of degrading things for him and then eventually send you off on something that would most probably get you killed. He's a sorry excuse for a man I tell you. .
Heflanyl looks around. questions?
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet Sunday September 4th, 2016 9:29:24 PM "Why the heck does he hate ME? I've never even met the man before now!!!! The friend of my enemy is my enemy? Feh. Feh I say. Ok. I'm now officially putting him on my enemy list too!!!
You others say that I'm sometimes too soft? Well, not with Gaston. Him you can kill when you next meet him and I won't object or get in the way. Heck, I'll even help you
Are you willing to sign a statement saying what you just said?"
Owen Marcellus (Weston W.) AC: 12/12/10; HP: 26/26; CMD: 15 Sunday September 4th, 2016 11:24:33 PM "We understand, Ryan. That sounds like a good plan; I think the Tree would be happy to have you stay around.
James, how much are these gambling debts? We might be able to find some work for you here at the Tree. And possibly," Owen looks around at the other party members, "find some scratch to get you back on your feet again."
'Osul(Graham) AC:11, HP:32/32 Monday September 5th, 2016 7:51:30 AM
One playing to our vanity, and one with a good excuse for his new found disloyalty — nothing to be concerned about here...
But some things catch his attention and prompt some form of response, such as...
"Leskni? He lacks the simplest discrimination. If every last Warden passed away this day, and half a dozen folk stepped up to take over the mantle, then he would likely hate them too. Think of him as an equal opportunity loather."
'Osul spends more than a few moments trying to determine in his own mind what Beordir is trying to accomplish with the phrase "the Verdant Sprawl".
Armand (Robert D) AC 16/touch11/flat15 HP 41/41 CMD 16 Character Sheet Monday September 5th, 2016 9:46:38 AM
Armand walks around. "James you said that Gaston has employed more than just the Thieves Guild and the assassin. Do you have specific names of such? Was Tom Branif in his employ?
Armand walks over to Ryan Inger. "Who was or would have been your contact to pass information to Gaston?"
He walks past Haflaynl and Owen and quietly asks, "What's the penalty for representing yourself as a member of the Star Mages when you are not? Do they have some form of enforcement arm?"
Armand walks over to Johnathan Tanner and Pyram Greycloak. He stares at them briefly. "Are you now or have you ever been a member of the Star Mages? What proof do you offer in your defense? Be warned if you try to cast any spells Atlas,(who is standing behind them looking imposing)will surely smack you into oblivion."
He walks back to Haflanyl. "James can you tell us anything about Gaston's legitimate or illegitimate business interests? Does he have rivals in Plateau City?"
Armand (Robert D) AC 16/touch11/flat15 HP 41/41 CMD 16 Character Sheet Monday September 5th, 2016 9:49:27 AM (OOC I have further questions but they are mostly to Heflanyl after this next round, dealing with consequences.
And Gaston is the kind of villain that after you kill him you want to heal him back a little and kill him again.
Unfortunately he's also the type that will never understand that he is wrong.)
Owen Marcellus (Weston W.) AC: 12/12/10; HP: 26/26; CMD: 15 Monday September 5th, 2016 11:15:38 AM
Owen gets wide-eyed as he imagines a Star Mages enforcement arm. "I've never heard of an enforcement arm, but if they had one it would be terrifying.
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet Monday September 5th, 2016 7:22:38 PM
Carver, starts thinking to the future.......To himself, we are going to need some serious bait to get Gaston out where we can get our hands on him..... Of those of us here still, Atlas and myself are the one he really wants to get even with the most.... While Atlas is well able to take care of himself, Carver knew he himself had Gargul's blessing to call upon when he needed to. This was something only a very few could know of, if more than that were to find out, Gaston would find out and then he'd vanish behind his friends for good where he'd remain out of reach..... "Atlas, we will tsalk later, but for now, let' s make these imposters talk some more. If you let the one I body slammed go, I'm sure I can hit him again, maybe this time I can aim it better. You know, like off the platform this time. Once we truly discover that he can't do magic, I think his friend there will be a lot more forth coming with the information we need. That is unless they decide to start talking right now and spilling everything they even think they know about Gaston...." Carver smiles, hoping his bluff isn't called, but then again, he can always just be depressed he failed to propel him off the platform.....
'Osul(Graham) AC:11, HP:32/32 Tuesday September 6th, 2016 6:51:57 AM OOC: Checking in. Will hopefully get to post again today.
Mack (Eric R) AC: 16 (T 16 FF 13), CMD: 15; HP 38/38, Speed: 30' d20+17=33 ; Tuesday September 6th, 2016 8:17:25 AM
I try to ignore the slightly guilty feeling I have about dumping crap on James head, as I continue to monitor the crowd.
(d20+17 perception check of 33)
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet d20+14=28 ; Tuesday September 6th, 2016 10:26:53 AM
This thing just ate another post. I HATE it when that happens.
Leksni will try and convince the imposters to talk. Good Taur vs Bad Taur
"Telling Carver what he wants to know is in your best interests. Tell us everything and I'll be able to put in a good word and stop Carver from hurting you"
Diplomacy of 28.
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet Tuesday September 6th, 2016 10:31:40 AM
Atlas nods as he watches Armand go from person to person asking questions. No need for him to jump in while Armand is on such a roll.
Turning to the elf, "Welcome Beordir, I am Atlas Sunowl. I'm sure you already gathered that though. It is nice to meet your acquaintance. May I ask what has brought you to the Tree and why you decided to help out tonight? Do you have a stake in all this?"
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet Tuesday September 6th, 2016 10:37:20 AM
Atlas laughs at Carver's comments as they he hears them clearly over the noise of the crowd. "Excuse me Beordir." He turns from Beordir and answers Carver with his own booming voice, "Hold on Carver, let me clear the crowd so that we don't have any innocents going over with him!" Atlas glances over at the thieves to see if they've wet themselves yet like good ole' Tom did.
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet Tuesday September 6th, 2016 7:08:52 PM
Carver sees Atlas speaking to someone who's unknown, he just raises an eyebrow and continues to tower over the thieves.... He pulls a dagger from it's sheath on the inside of his shield and looks like he's contemplating cutting the ropes.... "It's no fun giving chase to someone who's hobbled, puss, I suppose it's not considered fair either. Now, tell me about Gaston's dealing with you and what you know about his dealings in this general area......"
Armand (Robert D) AC 16/touch11/flat15 HP 41/41 CMD 16 Character Sheet Tuesday September 6th, 2016 8:46:45 PM
(OOC, while awaiting for the DM, should we discuss what we want to do with the Party Treasure? Is there anything on the list that anyone wants. I notice that Mack/Eric still has not put on the now none magical rings, and the horseshoes from Gaston's mount. {speaking of mounts, should we list the mounts as party treasure, or what? I think Armand will want a mount, just so movement can be faster.} But otherwise, we need to sell what we don't want and divide up the gold, and then we can make purchases of what we do need, or want.)
Owen Marcellus (Weston W.) AC: 12/12/10; HP: 26/26; CMD: 15 Wednesday September 7th, 2016 12:09:39 AM
Owen also introduces himself to Beordir. "I'm Owen Marcellus, a scholar from the Windbourne Hills."
Owen is a human male a few years shy of middle age. He is of average height and is not especially bulky. His black hair is sheared short in the military manner. He prefers to be cleanshaven. He wears an undyed robe, a navy cloak with a high collar, and simple shoes. His eyes are light brown and usually distant.
'Osul(Graham) AC:11, HP:32/32 Wednesday September 7th, 2016 6:10:10 AM
'Osul watches as Atlas and Owen greet the elf. Something about him has him ill at ease. Perhaps this is something he will discover as they converse.
Mack (Eric R) AC: 16 (T 16 FF 13), CMD: 15; HP 38/38, Speed: 30' d20+17=34 ; Wednesday September 7th, 2016 7:28:16 AM
OOC: Sorry about the delays in updating Party Treasure. I went camping for a week a couple weeks ago, and haven't been able to catch up at work OR at home (OR in the Wold) since I got back. ;(
IC: I continue to monitor the crowd. And I see if I can get a turkey leg with some barbecue sauce.
(d20+17 perception check of 34)
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet Wednesday September 7th, 2016 9:15:04 AM
Atlas awaits the elf's response. He seems like a nice enough fellow.
---------------------------------------------- ooc: As for party treasure, Atlas needs money to buy some gear he has planned. To that end, he will just take his share in gold whenever the time comes to get his share.
DM Shane Wednesday September 7th, 2016 10:23:43 AM Mack: The crowd is mumbling among themselves finally convinced of the Drows' relative innocence and the pure evil guilt of the Gaston. Evil like the Trick you pulled on poor James.
Carver: Mulls over the future then turns his attention back to the two imposter mages. Hey easy now Guv'na, We've done told you all we know, we sent back weekly updates about you guys to Gaston. we'd just send a letter with whatever caravan was passing though back to Plateau City. Honestly, the cheapskate didn't pay for no stealing, or killing or nuthin....so why would we stick out necks out for it? If you wanna know how much he paid you'd need to talk to they guild hall...but they won't talk...its bad for business...we sent stuff back like your schedule, how you spent your days. What weapons you carried...stuff like that.As far as dealin's with him, I've seen him round the guild hall a few times...he's friendly with the Grandmaster..but I'm not privy to his business dealin's
Leskni: Cannot fathom why someone who does not know her could hate her just because she is associated with someone else. Her Innocence is as surprising as it is sweet.
Armand: Looking thoughtful James replies. I never heard of a Tom Braniff until he busted into the Tree Top tavern to get his teeth knocked out and a nap. Over the past year he's paid a lot of gold to get information on you guys. Talking up folk from here in the bars. Sending folk on errands and then asking them about you on an unrelated topic when they came back. It was only in the last month or so that he actually hired the Thieves guild to do active reconnaissance and direct action, and the direct action was only the Assassin which wasn't against you guys...but against the drow.
Ryan shows you a name in his book, Horace Pennington. James Confirms that the name is also the name of a Scribe that does quite a bit of work for Gaston.
The two thieves perk up at that....Hey now, there ain't no need in gettin' the Star Mages guild all up and involved with this.. I don't see why we can't come up with some sort of arrangement that could be mutually beneficial to all involved.
James thinks for a moment. The politics of Plateau City are a tangled web of deceit and betrayal that I cannot figure out. I've heard him gripe and curse almost everyone who is anyone in that place one day, then hug and kiss them and laugh and joke with them the very next day. You could prolly get any of them to betray him if the price was right, but you might get double crossed if you picked the wrong person. I believe that Power and money draw those kind of people, or perhaps it creates them...in any case...I couldn't tell you who to trust. As far as business dealings, he runs a shipping company that deals in rare and valuable merchandice. He owns a couple of gambling dens that he shares profits with the Theives guild with. He also has a couple of...er...eh...houses of....eh...ill repute that he serves a higher class of clientel with, to hear him talk he has the dirt on every noble within 100 miles of the Plateau City. He looks at Owen, a bit of Cautious hope lighting his eyes. I'm a good manservant and butler sir, for a bit of consideration I would gladly work here, as far as Gaston is concerned, he can stuff it...I'm through with him. I don't need much, just a place to lay my head and food...try me for a few months and then we can discuss payment arrangements, if I meet you expectations. Owen: Thoughts of Mystical enforcers shake Owen's thoughts, but is it fear or excitement? he introduces himself to the Elf.
‘Osul: is cautious about the Elf and watches him closely.
the elf Boerdir Asks Who is this Gaston? Is he one of the drow over there? while gesturing toward the drow. and then to Atlas he replies "Nah. I just came in for supplies. The crowd made me curious and I'm not one to stand by and let potentially criminal folk just run off. If they were innocent, they would have stood on their honor before everyone. I don't even know really what's going on. Who's this Gaston person? Is he one of the drow?"
Mack (Eric R) AC: 16 (T 16 FF 13), CMD: 15; HP 38/38, Speed: 30' Wednesday September 7th, 2016 1:18:49 PM
Feeling bad, I approach James when the time is appropriate. "Yah, about that bucket of crap that got dumped on your head. Atlas wanted to apologize for that."
After getting a dirty look from Atlas across the room.... "Well, maybe I had something to do with it. In all honestly, it was meant for Gaston. I truly feel bad that you ended up with it instead. If there's any way to make up for that mistake, please let Atlas know." I smile and scurry off. :)
Armand (Robert D) AC 16/touch11/flat15 HP 41/41 CMD 16 Character Sheet Wednesday September 7th, 2016 5:09:40 PM "Hmm." Armand rubs his chin and paces between the 'witnesses'. He absently replies to Boerdir, "Who is Gaston, well that would take a good portion of the night and a couple of beers to explain."
He turns to Heflanyl, "It seems to me, that we have established Gaston's evil intent. I am truly sorry that his fixation on those of us whom he had past dealings with have caused harm to the Tree and its residents. But from what James has said though confronting him with the evidence would do no good. He is ensconced in the political machine of Plateau City and undoubtedly has some form of immunity from criminal prosecution there."
Armand pauses and looks around. "And from what James has described as the environment of Plateau City I don't care to try and go there to hunt him down. The Tree's policy is one of shunning or banishing those undeserving. I say there should be a general proclamation and banishment of Gaston. I further say we should notify Councilman Diamonddew in Emerald City of Gaston's machinations so that they can beware of Gaston and his tricks."
Armand looks up as if struck by a thought. "Someone should go and fetch Tom. We don't want him to miss out on this fun." He looks over at Carver and Atlas, giving Atlas the subtle bad cop with attitude signal.
"As to the fate of James I leave it in your hands Heflanyl." He looks over at the supposed Star Mages. "I still say we should send a letter or something to the Star Mages about their impersonators. But I don't know anyone in the Star Mages or even who to contact about it."
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet Wednesday September 7th, 2016 6:16:06 PM
Carver looks at his friends, "I do believe we've gotten all we can from these two, I'd suggest that they be held until we've dealt with Gaston. We wouldn't want them telling him by accident that we are onto him, by that I mean that we have all of this current information. I think we've basically finished up here for now and the crowd can go, It's now time for some private meeting and to set a course of action."
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet Wednesday September 7th, 2016 11:21:16 PM "And I assume that we are now finished with the Drow? They are free to leave the tree when they wish and are free to return at some later point if they wish, so long as they follow the rules?
While not completely innocent, they are clearly more innocent than guilty in all of this. The death of one of them was more than sufficient punishment for anything they did"
Owen Marcellus (Weston W.) AC: 12/12/10; HP: 26/26; CMD: 15 Wednesday September 7th, 2016 11:53:51 PM
Owen smiles at James. "We'll talk to Laughingwater and Ciyradyl and see if they need any help around the place. Or maybe Miles could use another hand on the security front."
'Osul(Graham) AC:11, HP:32/32 Thursday September 8th, 2016 8:39:30 AM "I think, if there is nothing else for these good people to bear witness to, we can let them go back to their evenings." He remains for Carver's called meeting. There is something about sending the drow off into the night without rest after the long day's walk that seems wrong, but he bids them farewell if that is their intent.
Maybe it's the long day affecting him as well, but he still isn't comfortable with Boerdir. Something about someone happening upon The Tree no sooner than they had returned. Someone not at all like Gaston, but asking a lot of questions about him. Someone referring to The Culverwood as the verdant sprawl, which he couldn't recall hearing once growing up. 'Osul thinks this bears further investigation — but maybe not tonight.
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet Thursday September 8th, 2016 10:40:38 AM
Atlas nudges Owen and leans down close to talk in his ear, "Have Carver check on James' intentions with that magic of his. If he is a good person with no-place to go then maybe we could use him at our place. We're really not that good at keeping it tidy and James is probably a safer choice than the attractive women I was thinking about asking." Atlas winks and has a mischievous look on his face as he moves on.
Looking around the crowd as they start to disperse, Atlas speaks up so everyone can hear, "Are there any bards about? I need a bard that knows the story of Locke Lamora and the Gentleman Bastards. Anyone?" In a much less boisterous tone he turns to Armand, "Do you know that story? Seems like we have an opportunity here to turn the tables on Gaston if we want to put in the effort."
Atlas then waits around for the crowd to disperse. "Should we take this discussion home so we can have some privacy? Or do we need some of the locals for this?"
DM Shane Thursday September 8th, 2016 3:51:45 PM
With all the informaton about Gaston squeezed from the actors in this drama, it gets down to the boring work of cleaning up.
The Thieves think of a counter offer to being held here. It's like this see, if it gets around that we got caught we'll loose respect in the guild, if we tell Gaston about what happened here it lets the guild know we got caught too. I'll give you a forefit, I'll tell you three secret things about the guild, things that would get us killed if they were found out, if we tell Gaston anything about this you could use them to get us in deep trouble. You right the three things you'd like to know down, and me and pyram will right down the answers separately so's you can spot it if we lie. Honestly, I don't want to stay here any longer than necessary. What do you say? He looks at Carver while he says this, perhaps senseing that he of all the Wardens is the most Lawful and Trustworthy.
While this is happening Eclyandryl gets the attention of Heflyanyl, she speaks quietly to him...he looks surprised and motions for LaughingWater and Cryandryl to come over. They confer intensely for a few minutes and then the whole group makes for Heflanyl's office, where the go in and close the door.
Mack: is the master of the backhanded apology, but James takes it in stride. It's okay, just give me a job and a place to stay and we'll call it good.
Carver: Calls the meeting and call for plans to be made concerning the future.
Atlas: Echo's this statement , His calls for a bard bring forth a man with a guitar, I don't know that tune, but if you hmmm a few bars I can pick it up, you'll have to sing it though
Leskni: Calls for clemency and acceptance for the Drow. few seem in the mood to argue the point.
Armand: Surmises the points perfectly, one of the Traders offers to take the letter, but the thieves really really don't want that to happen...judging from the panicked looks and motions to stop.
Owen: Gives James a word of encouragement, which earns him a genuine smile from the man.
‘Osul: also calls for a halt to the proceedings and the Drows innocence, he's even a bit concerned aobut their welfare. That Boerdir fellow though...something still does not seem right.
The elf Boerdir Looks back over the plains toward the Culver Wood many miles away. “Banishment, huh. Not many would like to care to put themselves at the Judgement of the Leaves. That would be a fitting punishment here. Cruel for some. I’m glad I came across this tribunal. After so long in Her Leafy Embrace, I had forgotten about laws.
Hmmm. Obviously, harming the Tree or it’s residents is banned. I wonder if there are other peculiarities of law I need to be made aware of.”
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet Thursday September 8th, 2016 4:11:40 PM
Atlas listens to the Elf and shakes his head like someone just spoke to him in the dragon tongue, "Um, 'Osul, any idea what this fellow is talking about? 'After so long in Her Leafy Embrace', 'I had forgotten about laws'...where did that elf say he was from? The Verdant Sprawl or something? I agree with you, something is fishy here. Something here has me wondering if this elf came here today, or if this elf has been wrapped up in our tree here for the past 1000 years. I know, it sounds crazy, but his way of speaking seems strange to me. Do you mind sorting this out while we deal with the thieves?"
Going back to Carver and Armand, "Well, what do you two think? I don't trust them, but to be honest, they didn't hurt anybody and didn't break any laws. If we think we'll get honest answers out of them then I'm up for it. However, I would lean towards them giving us the best pieces of information rather than us asking and leaving something valuable on the table. Maybe we have them tell us the 5 biggest secrets they know, as long as one of them is who runs the thieve's guild?"
Atlas tries to gently cuff Mack on his way off, but he misses the sly halfling, as usual.
Finally, looking to Owen, "So, what do you think on James? Do we give him a trial? Is he trust worthy, or is this all a ploy to get more information to Gaston to save a family member or get out of debt? Carver! We need your godliness to help us make a decision over here."
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet Thursday September 8th, 2016 4:29:37 PM
Atlas turns and runs right into the bard that he called for, "Oh good! Wait, you don't know the story of Locke Lamora? If I can remember correctly, here is a part of the story, but you won't get a song out of me. I'm a story teller, not a singer or a bard." Atlas takes a moment to remember one of his favorite pieces of the story...
“I only steal because my dear old family needs the money to live!" Locke Lamora made this proclamation with his wine glass held high; he and the other Gentleman Bastards were seated at the old witchwood table. . . . The others began to jeer. "Liar!" they chorused "I only steal because this wicked world won't let me work an honest trade!" Calo cried, hoisting his own glass. "LIAR!" "I only steal," said Jean, "because I've temporarily fallen in with bad company." "LIAR!" At last the ritual came to Bug; the boy raised his glass a bit shakily and yelled, "I only steal because it's heaps of... Atlas chokes on a curse word, looks a bit sheepish, and finishes up, "fun!" "BAST...!” Atlas looks about sheepishly again, "I never said it was a proper story."
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet Thursday September 8th, 2016 4:58:54 PM
Carver, unfocus' his eyes and allows Lord Gargul to give them his blessing. With that blessed sight, he looks over the thieves and at James to see if they are or how evil they might be. He then turns to Atlas, "We wouldn't get a real name anyways because I doubt the Guildmaster would let his true name be known to his underlings. Now, as to where the guild hall is located and possibly where the lieutenants of the guild might be found are possible questions we can ask.... As to asking each different questions, I'd say don't try it, we want verification of what we get, not possibly more false information we can't do anything with. We also have some contacts in Plateau City that might be able to assist us with any information we do get. We assisted the Chancers Club and they were very happy that Gaston was reviled as not a good choice...."
(ooc sorry for typing mess , had a needle in eye today, as to party loot, I'm interested the chainmail, and the horse shoes but at 4x cost the chainmail is gonna make me broke for a long time. )
Armand (Robert D) AC 16/touch11/flat15 HP 41/41 CMD 16 Character Sheet Thursday September 8th, 2016 5:09:34 PM
Armand looks over at the two thieves.
He very quietly says to Atlas and Carver. "Well I guess it depends if we decide to try and go after Gaston or not. Personally I think our showing up in Plateau City would only set him off more, and he has something of a power base there with ties to the thieves guild. Maybe the best thing we could do is keep those two here under guard and have them feed false information to Gaston. Still we can send a letter to Emerald City with only having James and Olrich's testimony and leave them out of it if you want."
He shrugs his shoulders. In a louder voice he says, "I'm for finding Tom, and seeing where he went off, who's with me?"
Armand goes looking for Tom, assuming he will be where ever all the guests have been staying of late.
DM Shane: Tom, dear ol' Tom is currently sleeping it off in chains after trying to drunkenly "Teash dose, schtikin drow a lessen..hic" and getting a good beat down and a dose of Drow sleep poison via kitchen utensil. you know it's quite amazing what can be used as a weapon in a dining room.
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet Thursday September 8th, 2016 6:12:23 PM "Going after Gaston at this point seems like a lot more trouble than its worth. He will be protected, he has resources. We defeated him. He just isn't worth the trouble.
I basically think that it is just time to put this whole sorry adventure behind us. Learn and move on.
I have no opinion on what best to ask the thieves. Not my area of knowledge. We don't have thieves guilds in the Taur Islands, only you "Noble Races" seem to have groups specifically designed to help people rob and kill each other for profit"
Owen Marcellus (Weston W.) AC: 12/12/10; HP: 26/26; CMD: 15 Thursday September 8th, 2016 11:23:54 PM
Owen confers with the group. "I'd say there's no guarantee that we'll get real secrets from the thieves. The best solution here, I think, would be to turn the tables a little. If these guys stop giving Gaston information, he'll know they've been caught. If the Star Mages start sniffing around asking about people impersonating them, the guild will know their guys have been caught. Everyone has leverage, so turnabout is fair play." He turns to the thieves and says, "How about this offer: We don't tell the Thieves Guild or the Star Mages about you guys, and in exchange you feed Gaston some misinformation. To keep you accountable, find us once a month and tell us what you've told him."
Returning to the group, Owen says, "I'm of a mind to pursue this issue further. Let's head to Plateau City and see what other dirty laundry Gaston has that we can air there. There must be other people he's irritated."
Mack (Eric R) AC: 16 (T 16 FF 13), CMD: 15; HP 38/38, Speed: 30' Friday September 9th, 2016 7:49:37 AM "I like the idea of using the thieves for misinformation. Another option to get some good info, we bargain for 5 answers instead of 3, like Atlas mentioned. The first question we ask is "What 4 questions would you ask if you were us?", or something along those lines. And then ask those 4 for our remaining."
"As to James, I feel bad. He seems like a nice enough fellow. It wouldn't bother me if he looked over our house." I then move off like normal. Knowing that I can be naive and taken advantage of by those with less then good intentions, I feel it's not best for me to make the decision on James.
'Osul(Graham) AC:11, HP:32/32 Friday September 9th, 2016 7:59:36 AM "Atlas, I like your thinking -- you should be sleep-deprived more often! But, are you really suggesting this,..." he preforms the universally recognized rising and falling hand-and-arm-signal beside Boerdir "...is The Wakening of The Tree?"
"Okay, I'll see what I can glean."
'Osul welcomes Boerdir and begins an introduction, including the fact that he himself came to The Tree from The Wood nearly a year ago now. 'Osul lets Boerdir know he is happy to bring up to speed on how things appear to work here, but not until he has told him more of home. The venue should probably be the TTT, a booth, supper, ale or mead (we have both kinds of drink here). He also (if the opportunity presents itself) asks if he recognizes the source or origins of his walking stick.
Do his descriptions match The Wood the party knows, or that he grew up in, or things from old stories that many people would know, or the Fourth Option from Atlas? Does Boerdir identify with a Class? What brings him from The Wood to The Tree?
Mack (Eric R) AC: 16 (T 16 FF 13), CMD: 15; HP 38/38, Speed: 30' Friday September 9th, 2016 1:56:37 PM
OOC: Hopefully I got everything here (finally):
Still checking on a few prices. Let me know if you're interested in any, if you've paid in, and if you have the item on your character sheet so I can remove it. Thanks! :)
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet Friday September 9th, 2016 5:49:23 PM
Carver waits until the group is alone and then says loudly, "If anyone is caught spying on our meeting, I will run you through with my lance and then spit roast you until there is no more screaming." He winks at Atlas as he almost shouts that so it's a fair warning. "Check all of the peep holes, I want to be private for what we decide." He then starts checking the secret listening spaces....
DM Shane Friday September 9th, 2016 11:04:10 PM
ooC: it's time for Experience points!!!
All current players adjust experience points to the minimum needed to reach 6th level. This will start everyone else out at 6th level and on an even footing.
+1 hero point for everyone, and an extra hero point for the following:
Leskni for excellent roleplay and staying true to their character...which I guess is the essence of role play, sorry for the redundancy.
Carver for good roleplay and a really awesome body check at just the right time.
The Thieves, keen to Owens idea. Now your idea changes things a bit. Our contract with Gaston extended to his visit here...We are not longer under contract to him now. If you want to contract to us...well you have us at a disadvantage...so we will give you a pretty serious discount on spying on Gaston for you. 20 gp a month...we will send you periodic updates on Gaston's goings on. we will keep this on the down low...nobody but us will know. That's all contingent on you letting us go and not telling anybody about this whole deal, though...
Helfanyl, Cyrandly, Laughingwater and Eclyandryl all come out of the office looking pleased as punch...laughing and talking with one another. Cyrandly and Eclyandryl break off and head to the Triple T. Helfanyl and Laughing water come to stand with the group. They whisper to members of the party that they have just brokered a trade deal with the Drow contingent that should bring a pretty good windfall of profit to the tree!
James is more than willing to be the Wardens butler, houseman, and cook. pay to be determined later.
Mack: puts his two coppers in on what to do with the thieves, He then recluses himself from the discussion, knowing his personality leaves him open to deceit.
Carver: The thieves show to be truly neutral in their outlooks on life. James is neutral as well but with a good heart. He weighs in on what to do about Gaston and their contacts in Plateau City.
Atlas: Confers with the guitar man, and then tells a ribald story that even the Thieves find amusing. He is curious about the Elf, but assigns 'Osul to figure it out, being as he is closer to nature than himself.
Leskni: abstains on the questions of the thieves, poses to put an end to the adventure as done and advises caution when dealing with Gaston in his place of power.
Armand: comments on the Thieves, forgets that Tom is now in custody, badly beaten and sleeping off drow poison Helfanly comments Oh don't worry about Tom, He isn't welcome here till he pays off his debt, plus a lot of outstanding interest and penalties. As cheap as he is, we will probably never see him again..
Owen: speaks an idea that really really interests the thieves.
‘Osul: decides Boerdir warrants a bit closer scrutiny and invites him to the Tree Top Tavern for dinner and stories,
when Helfanyl hears of the spying offer the thieves favor, he puts forth that it would be good for the tree to have this information and offers to pay the thieves price.
a fine dinner is had by all, Beordir despite his strange phrasing, eventually explains that he has spent most of his young life living in the Culver Wood, and has only recently left. He is a fighter and a mage, claiming that he had no talent for Druidic magic and that the wood seemed to want him to go this way. Ciyradyl shushes Carver and shows hhim, privately how to reliably tell if someone is listening in on you in the meeting rooms. The secret door leading to the hidden hall bumps a small lever hidden in the jamb, the lever rotates a small wheel hidden behind a painting. the wheel is painted red and green. If green is showing the trees in the painting are in full summer bloom. if it's red they are in fall. if it's red, someone is in the room, because the red side of the circle is indexed to show on odd openings of the door, while the greed side is indexed to open on even openings of the door. it's not perfect, but it does make you more cautious. and will catch a sneak thief out more times than not.
In the morning the Drow move off back toward home. Eclyandryl actually tears up a bit at the parting. We shall meet again, I would be honored to call you all my friends. Safe haven and may the shade always find you.
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet Saturday September 10th, 2016 9:15:39 AM
Woo hoo. Level 6. A huge level for Witches :-). Probably the major reason that I became a witch was this power.
One mechanical question. Better to ask it now than when it matters. I now have access to the following :
Save/Slay (Divine Theme) [SP] As a move action that provokes attacks of opportunity, the witch who touches a dead creature can Save it, bringing the creature to zero hit points if it has been dead less than 1d4 rounds.
1) Do I know what the 1d4 rounds is at the time of a death or only when I touch the creature? 2) Does this bring the creature back from ALL forms of death or only from hit point loss?
DM Shane I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that you do not get a sense of the time of death when you touch a creature. Obviously, if it goes down in front of you, you will have a sense of how long it's been "dead" but if it's longer than 1d4 rounds then your spell is wasted. I am also going to say it will only work with HP loss. it won't reattach decapitated heads or do anything with Death Touch spells, but simple HP bleeds...it's golden.
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet Saturday September 10th, 2016 6:48:25 PM
Sorry, I wasn't clear.
If I see somebody go down in a shower of blood, do I know if I have 1 round to get to them or 4?
Armand (Robert D) AC 16/touch11/flat15 HP 41/41 CMD 16 Character Sheet Saturday September 10th, 2016 7:53:24 PM
(OOC, sorry, I thought Tom had managed to go off with his 'wet' trousers and possibly get away. I wanted to find out if indeed he was in Gaston's employ. I didn't think that was every firmly established.
Also you said +1 hero point for everyone, is that in addition to the hero point for leveling up?)
Armand looks around, his stern features almost glum. It's as if he has had the will sucked out of him. He contemplates if this is what Gargul intends for him to do. He fiddles with his half glass of beer thinking to himself. "It seemed so simple before. Help others, keep the peace of the Tree. Now it becomes involved and convoluted. Do we go to Plateau City? Do we wait and see if more raiders attack caravans? Does Gargul want some special purpose of me? He recalls hearing of Grims, and Undead Hunters. But there is scarce need of that here."
He waits to see what Carver wanted them to talk about.
(OOC, I don't want any or need any of the current magic items in the party treasure. But I do need some money to buy non-magical things. Also I would like to keep Gaston's horse, unless someone else wants it.)
'Osul(Graham) AC:11, HP:32/32 Saturday September 10th, 2016 9:35:22 PM
In response to Beordir's comment that "...the wood seemed to want him to go this way.", he smiles and nods, and says, "This part of the tale is familiar to me.", before letting him proceed.
Eventually, 'Osul leaves Beordir to settle in for the evening. He advises Atlas of his conclusions, and rejoins the meeting.
OOC: I'm not looking to take anything else from the treasure. There are things I'd like 'Osul to buy or make, but not just yet, and who knows, we might find some on the way.
Owen Marcellus (Weston W.) AC: 12/12/10; HP: 32/32; CMD: 16 Saturday September 10th, 2016 9:46:49 PM
Owen smiles and shakes hands with the thieves. When the drow leave, Owen doesn't seem terribly upset. As much as Leskni likes them, they're still pretty suspicious.
When the rest of the party gathers in the TTT to talk to Beordir, Owen says, "Let's take a day or so to rest up, but then I'd really like to head to Plateau City."
OoC: We can figure out party treasure and whatnot on the way there, then do our shopping in Plateau City. Oh, and Owen doesn't want any of the items.
Atlas Sunowl (Trey) AC: 21 (T 13 FF 18), CMD: 20; HP 52/52 Character Sheet Sunday September 11th, 2016 8:56:39 PM
Atlas is glad to see the day come to an end. He agrees to Helfanyl's offer and provides an intimidating background to Owen when the deal is made. "Be warned, if you break this deal or you lie to us then we will not only inform everyone of your deeds, but we will make an example of you in a way that would make Gaston gasp. Don't let our good nature fool you, we know how to make you scream."
Later that evening he says to everyone, "I'm confused, some of you seem to think we're going to Plateau City while the rest of you think we're staying here. What is it? I know I have teetered some myself, but I'll say this; While I want to go and turn Gaston into a eunuch, I have made a commitment to protect the people of the Tree. I have to put that commitment above my own personal desires. I'm sure he'll try to ruin us from afar as well, but I'm just not comfortable leaving at this time unless the good folks of the Tree ask us to. Thoughts?"
Leskni (Paul Jackson) AC: 15/14/11; HP 35/35; CMD: 16 Character Sheet Sunday September 11th, 2016 9:14:15 PM "I'd prefer to not go to Plateau City at this point, although I don't have any other agenda to offer.
But if the group wants to go there I'll certainly go along too. And I certainly have a little shopping to do also."
OOC: I don;t want any of the items in the party treasure but I could use some cash :-)
Carver (John C) AC 16, AC 18 with shield, CMB 6, CMD 17, HP 48/48 Speed 65 Character Sheet Monday September 12th, 2016 1:13:41 AM "Atlas, as long as Gaston is still breathing, he'll do all he can to make us pay. In doing so, he knows that our care for the tree and the people here can be used as a weapon against us. So avoiding going after Gaston in Plateau City only allows him time to plan his next action and I wouldn't be surprised if he went after the tree. We did stress that the supposed deal he was here to complete was important and we wanted to make sure that it succeeded. We now know he was using the Tree as a wall in which he was trying to back us up against, leaving us no way out. The next time he comes at us, he could just out right attack the tree and leave us to pick the pieces... My vote is to go to our friends in Plateau City, and give them the information we have about Gaston and see what help they can give us. I'm sure there are a few people there who will assist us, because Gaston must have stabbed quite a few in the back.... metaphorically if not literally."
Mack (Eric R) AC: 16 (T 16 FF 13), CMD: 15; HP 38/38, Speed: 30' Monday September 12th, 2016 7:39:03 AM "I hear some good points on doing either, but I also have no wish to go to Plateau City. I'd think we have enough contacts that we can inform people and let them deal with Gaston in the city."
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