Back to Town Monday April 20th, 2020 2:17:57 PM
Sigvar reports back to the group as Anna flies over to the eagle. The eagle looks over at Anna and replies, “Hungry. Looking for food. Man no food. Only one flying man-beast.” It continues to coast around in the air currents, watching for prey below.
Nikolai leads the others across the massive stone white bridge and into town. As they enter town, a few townspeople appear in front of doors and eye the group cautiously. One portly man gives the group a thumbs up as they pass. There are a couple smiles, but a few others look back towards the foreboding castle the group has just left. About midway through town, a man steps out of a building an approaches the group.
“Hail, and well-met friends! I am Earl Segarus, and let me be the first to welcome you back.” He gestures towards the door to what appears to be a tavern: there is a sign hanging over the door with a mug of something on it. Earl continues, “Please, come in, sit down, let’s talk!”
Earl is a human, about 30 years old, and dressed in not quite finery, but not common clothes, either. He is of average size, but a bit taller than most, at just over six feet tall.
Prudence Gundle Monday April 20th, 2020 5:29:42 PM
"Thank you, Master Segarus," Pru says. "I am Sergeant Prudence Gundle." She is ready to accept his invitation, but she waits to see what Nikolai, the Thumb, decides to do.
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Monday April 20th, 2020 6:30:58 PM
Trayvin thinks this may be a good opportunity to interact with the people of the town, hopefully everyone else agrees.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 d20+17=30 ; Monday April 20th, 2020 10:28:18 PM
Anna assumes the bird is talking about Sigvar as the flying man-beast considering Sigvar is a minotaur. She tells Sigvar the bird has only seen him and suggest they fly down to meet with the others.
She lands on the sign posts and observes this Earl Segarus who is welcoming the Agents (Perception: 30)
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 d20+12=14 ; d20+21=36 ; Monday April 20th, 2020 10:42:12 PM
suddenly feeling quiet, Michael just nods at Mr. Segarus but he puzzles on him and looks around.
sense motive 14
Perception 36
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Tuesday April 21st, 2020 12:09:12 AM
Nikolai casually waves at those townsfolk that watch then pass by. Upon the invitation to enter the tavern, Nikolai accepts.
"Thank, Mr. Segarus. My name is Nikolai and we are special agents of the Mailed Fist. We certainly would like to discuss the situation here over some drinks. Cleansing that castle made us thirsty."
Pompous Mistbane AC 27 CMD 30, HP 136/136/ Tuesday April 21st, 2020 6:31:35 AM
Pompous enters the tavern with the others. He puts down the hood from cloak and softens his stance. He slings his bow over his shoulder but lazily rests his hand on the hilt of his short sword. He nods at the tavern keeper's welcome.
" How goes it my fine fellow? "
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Tuesday April 21st, 2020 8:19:18 AM
Sigvar lands and will follow the others into the tavern. Before he enters though he casts his three resistance spells on himself, just in case. Resist Fire 30 Resist Lighting 30 Resist cold 30 He also throws GMW on his longsword He also has whatever time remains on the Fly spell.
The Mug Tuesday April 21st, 2020 2:04:06 PM
Earl welcomes the group in and gestures that they should make themselves comfortable (Sense Motive, DC 20: Highlight to display spoiler: {He seems genuinely happy to the see group}). Inside there is a common room that isn’t that large, but big enough for a town of this size. There is a long bar along one side that has about a dozen stools. There are also a couple large, rectangular tables that can seat six easily. There is an open staircase that leads up to the second floor. Behind the bar is a slightly overweight fellow that looks jovial and happy as well. His appears to be a bit older as his hair has started to grey and there’s actually quite a bald spot appearing on the top of his head that he has tried to comb over.
As the group heads in, Earl welcomes them, “Yes, please be at ease and welcome to The Mug.” The large man behind the counter mutters, “That’s The Full Mug Tavern and Inn.” Earl nods at him and continues, “This is Earl behind the counter, and his wife, Portia, well, she must be out running some errands at the moment. Please, have a seat. Earl, I believe some ale is in order. Are any of you hungry? Care for a meal or a snack?”
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Tuesday April 21st, 2020 8:38:08 PM Actually, a meal sounds pretty good. And some ale too. Smashing some evil stuff tends to work up an appetite.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday April 21st, 2020 10:12:33 PM
Pru looks back and forth between the two men. "You're both named Earl?" she says.
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Tuesday April 21st, 2020 10:17:13 PM
Warren you have important mail....again sir. :)
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 d20+12=27 ; Tuesday April 21st, 2020 11:03:14 PM
Food sounds good to Michael. and a beer like mana from the gods. He sits down with the rest of the party and quietly surveys the situation.
sense motive 27
he senses that the man has no hidden motive, and is just generally glad to see them. perhaps because they purged most of the evil from the Castle? that must be it.
when the beer comes, Michael reflects once again on the Trials and Triumphs of living amongst the big folk, Pints of ale are one of the Triumphs, having to jog while they walk is one of the trials...
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) d20+9=26 ; Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 12:49:56 AM
Sense Motive +9 = 26
Nikolai notices the change in attitude since their last appearance in town. A good sign. With introductions over, Nikolai can't help wandering how many Earls are in this little town.
"Thank you Earl, and Earl. Some beer and food would do nicely. We hope that cleaning out that castle from some evil stuff will put the town more at ease and get back to normal. NO one seemed willing to tell us much about it a couple days ago. Perhaps now we can get the full story."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 d20+1=14 ; Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 1:45:00 AM
Anna lands from the sign post and reverts back to her normal green plant kin self and enters the bar with the others.
(Sense Motive: 14) she finds she can't get a read on the Earl, but reading people was never her strong suit, fooling people though, that was something she can do, so she sees what Michael does in respect to the proferred food and drink. Seeing him take a mug of beer relaxes her.
Although she doesn't need to eat or drink, a beverage doesn't sound like a bad idea right now and asks Earl if he has any Mead or Wine, in which case she wouldn't mind a cup of that.
Anna adds onto Nikolai's start, "Specifically, what do you know of seemingly forgetful yet potentially studious seemingly "old man" we found dwelling in the castle."
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 6:30:45 AM
Sigvar is cautious, but not above some beer and food when it is offered. He listens as the others ask about the tower and waits to hear the reply.
The Mug Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 4:05:44 PM
Earl looks at Pru in confusion. He says, “Well, yes. I mean, he’s Earl Evans and I’m Earl Segarus, but no one has ever confused us before.” He looks over at the other Earl and says, “We don’t really look alike, do we?” Earl (the bartender) starts pouring some ales into rather large mugs. About that time a portly woman comes in from the back and stops, looking around at everyone. Earl (Segarus) says, “Ah yes, Portia, this is the group from the castle. They’ve said they’re hungry, I’m sure you have something back there ready?”
Portia nods and quickly heads into the back room. Earl sits down at the bar and gestures that the Agents should take a seat at the table. He says, “So you were so kind as to help us with our horrible creatures that were here and we truly thank you for that. And you’ve been up at the castle for a few days, yes? What happened up there? What did you do?” A old man at the end of the bar has his head on the bar. He turns it to the side and looks over at the group, but doesn’t lift his head. He looks like he is quite comfortable there.
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 9:49:49 PM
Trayvin notices the peculiar old man but says nothing. Some of the other Agents will be better at checking him out without causing an issue.
Well, there were a number of nasty critters in there and most of them are not too friendly to have as neighbors. The castle itself is in good shape except for a hole in the roof, but it is probably a good idea to leave it alone until the Citadel can send a unit of clerics to cleanse and purify it.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 d20+21=38 ; Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 9:55:05 PM Turns out at the top of the castle was what appeared to be an old wizard, but was most probably a form of undead called a Lich. he was also apparently suffering from either absent-mindedness or dementia, We gather that he had been summoning these creatures and then forgetting that he summoned them. Before things went pear-shaped, we talked a bit, He hinted that he had been sitting at that desk studying some scrolls and books for so long he could not remember the last time he had done anything else.
he was completely ambivalent to what the monsters were doing to the town. When we found that we could not come to an agreement and things dropped in the dung heap. he put up some really powerful spells that held us out. and some really potent defensive spells that made attacking him all but impossible. We finally ran him off, or he decided to leave because we had burnt up all the paper in the study...but we were not able to destroy him. if he is a lich he has a phylactery around here somewhere. it will allow him to regenerate if we do kill him. I'm sorry for all the "we surmise this and hinted at that" stuff but it's the truth. we had a lot of interactions, but no hard facts from the lich. .
Michael eyes the old man as he speaks. could it be the lich in disguise?
perception 38.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Thursday April 23rd, 2020 12:17:20 AM
Nikolai notices the old man and wonders about him. He nudges Anna and motions with his head towards the old man, the whispers, 'Sidle up over to that old man and see if you can determine if he is legit.'
Getting close to Earl, he whispers, 'That old man over there seems quite comfortable. Not at all concerned about the humanoid predations that plagued the town just yesterday. Who is he?"
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Thursday April 23rd, 2020 1:00:21 AM
Anna whispers back to Nikolai,"If you'll pardon me for a bit, I think I got just the thing. I'm going to fake using the bathroom first so I can pull a scroll of detect undead from my bag of tricks and cast it. It does not allow for spell resistance and if the Lich is in someway affecting that man mayhap he'll radiate something."
Anna makes a show of either heading to the restroom or the outhouse and while there she reaches into her bag of tricks and pulls out a scroll of detect undead CL 10. (OOC: deducted the cost of a scroll of detect undead CL 10 = 250 gp from character sheet; there is no save allowed and it doesn't allow for spell resistance so if the old man at the bar is somehow the lich or giving off an undead aura she should be able to detect it) and casts it in the bathroom.
For up to 10 minutes as long as she maintains concentration she can detect the presence and strength of undead auras.
She returns back to the bar and nonchalantly takes a seat nearish to the old man but out of his line of sight so that he falls within the range of her 60 foot cone of detection.
Depending on if the old man turns out clean she turns her sensor to the bar in general in case the lich is hiding in the bar somewhere.
Active Effects: Detect Undead : 10 minutes - detects the aura surrounding undead creatures in a 60 foot cone shaped emanation
Pompous Mistbane AC 27 CMD 30, HP 136/136/ Thursday April 23rd, 2020 6:11:37 AM
Pompous sits near but not with the others. He takes quill and ink out of his kit and records the other's tales of their adventure.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Thursday April 23rd, 2020 10:41:34 AM
Assuming he is too large to be seated, Sigvar steps into the bar and just leans against the wall as the conversation goes on. He casually begins to scan the room for evil, it should be small enough to be mostly covered. Since he only detected a few strong emanations before, where some of the truly bad stuff lived he should be able to pick something 'more evil than the background' out if it is around, he hopes anyway.
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Thursday April 23rd, 2020 11:18:05 AM
Warren please reply to my emails sir. Our plans have changed and I need a reply before I can announce the plans.
The Mug Thursday April 23rd, 2020 1:30:37 PM
The Agents settle into the bar. Everyone notices the old man at the end of the bar. Anna even heads out for a moment and reads a scroll in the bathroom. She returns and notices Sigvar attempt to detect evil on the old man. Anna does not detect undead on the old man or anywhere in the range of her spell at all. Sigvar does not detect evil in the old man or either of the Earls. Sigvar is quite confident that the old man is not the lich, as his smite is still active and he would know if that was his target. Nikolai asks about the old man. Earl glances over and says, “Oh, that’s Lennox. He, well, that’s kind of his seat at the bar, if you get my meaning.” Lennox raises up his mug and takes a drink, then sets his head back down on the bar.
Michael explains the story of the castle as Earl and his wife bring out some stew and keep the mugs of ale full. Earl smiles and nods as he explains. Then Earl says, “So wait. You’re telling me you found a lich and that you left it there? What does that mean that you ‘ran him off?’ It sounds like he’s not dead and his house is still there. That sounds a bit like you just annoyed a powerful evil being and then left.”
Prudence Gundle Thursday April 23rd, 2020 2:59:41 PM
"Er--well," Pru says. "We didn't exactly leave him there. He teleported away. We don't know where he is, or whether he's coming back. If we knew where he was, we would chase him, but right now we have no way to find that out." She looks around at her Fist-mates. "We need to figure out a way for you to contact us immediately if he does come back."
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Thursday April 23rd, 2020 5:52:27 PM EXACTLY thinks Sigvar. He raises his Mug to Earl as the man finally drives home his point.
OoC Sigvar's smite should have faded when he rested, The smite is active until the target dies or the paladin rests to recover spells. Sigvar rested so the smite should be gone too.
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Thursday April 23rd, 2020 9:29:55 PM
The man makes a good point. The Agents work is not yet finished. Trayvin drinks his ale while he considers what will need to be done to make sure this town is safe.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Thursday April 23rd, 2020 11:13:54 PM Yes, that is exactly what I'm telling you. He escaped to someplace we know not where. I was hoping to do little research to find out some history of this castle and the lich that owned it. maybe that would give us a lead we could follow to find him. . Michael takes a pull of his mug o ale, then continues.
and as far as annoying him, I think we burnt up his books and scrolls and that's why he left. not that we pissed him off or anything. .
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Friday April 24th, 2020 12:28:23 AM "We looked all over the castle, up and down, even in the toilets, but we could not find any trace of him. He's got a hiding place nearby, we suspect, but rather than spend a few months looking for it, we came here in hopes someone in town may have come across something unusual, a cave or such, in their hunting trips or taking their herds to pasture."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Friday April 24th, 2020 1:26:39 AM
Anna says to Earl, "For just how long has Lennox been a fixture in these parts?"
If Earl indicates that Lennox has been in town for a good long while, Anna says to Lennox, "What do you know of the castle over yonder and any stories concerning it or its owners past or present? Someone as distinguised as yourself must surely know a lot about it."
The Mug (DM JeffO) Friday April 24th, 2020 1:42:53 PM
The conversation with Earl continues while the other Earl and his wife continue to provide food and ale to your heart’s content. Earl seems a bit concerned with the Agents spell out that the lich isn’t really gone. When Michael asks about research, he replies, “No, we really don’t have so much of a library or historical area, we’re just a small farming town that is more concerned with getting by each day than creating fancy libraries. I’m not sure what to do about the lich still being here, apparently. I think I will have to call a town meeting where the people might be able to ask you and make a decision on what to do next. Of course, that will take a little time to get everyone here.”
When Anna asks about Lennox, Earl looks over at him and calls out to him, “You’ve been there at the bar, what, 40 years now, Lennox?” Lennox grunts, sits up, and says, “Ayup, I spose so.”
When Anna asks him about the castle, he says in a surprising clear voice, “Well now, it’s just really always been there. Been there longer than I’ve been here. Never much seen a’one come or go to it b’fore your group. Just been sittin’ there all this time.”
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Friday April 24th, 2020 8:12:18 PM
Anna says to Lennox, "I don't suppose you know of anyone who has been in this town longer than yourself?"
To the bar in general she says, "I don't suppose your village keeps any historical records or has a museum or library?"
Prudence Gundle Friday April 24th, 2020 11:11:34 PM
"I think a town meeting is a good idea," Pru says. "We can answer any questions you have, and the townsfolk can decide what to do next."
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Saturday April 25th, 2020 6:32:37 PM Yeah, I think meeting with the town council would be a good idea, we need to come up with some options to protect the town, and also see if we can get some more info on that castle.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Monday April 27th, 2020 12:52:03 AM "Yes, a town meeting is necessary. The whole town needs to hear what has been going on and what we have accomplished, and what the future may be. Please get the word out to meet us in an hour at your town center. Two hours if necessary, but no longer than that."
Pompous Mistbane AC 27 CMD 30, HP 136/136/ Monday April 27th, 2020 7:55:31 AM
Pompous doesn’t seem overly impressed with the idea of a town meeting. He checks in with the others and offers to perform perimeter duty around the village.
The Mug (DM JeffO) Monday April 27th, 2020 5:15:01 PM
Anna asks Lennox and he replies, “No one longer than me that I can ‘member, that’s fer sure. And no, we don really have time fer no liberry, either.”
The group seems to be happy with a town meeting, but when Nikolai says in the next hour, Earl holds his hands up, “Now wait a minute there. We can’t just have everyone drop everything. There’s cows what need to be milked and so on. I can call a meeting, but that’s a gonna take some time. Maybe in two days, that would be more proper.”
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Monday April 27th, 2020 5:30:27 PM
Sigvar watches as the Agents prepare to walk into a meeting where everyone will blame them. Hopefully the Lich shows up to die within the next two days with a note in his pocket saying, this isd where my secret lair is. The Paladin sighs.
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Monday April 27th, 2020 5:44:29 PM
Trayvin isn't sure the meeting is a good idea, the townsfolk are probably mostly farmers and may get stuck on the wrong questions. In the meantime, there was still something useful that could be done.
We should send a message to the Citadel, and give them an update on our progress.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Monday April 27th, 2020 8:08:52 PM
Nikolai nods as Earl expresses his concerns about an early meeting. "Well, the sooner the better but if it will take two days to get the word out and the folk further out to make it in, then two days it is. We will keep our patrols up and continue our search for the lich in the meantime."
He turns to the rest of the group, "Well, let's sit and eat."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Monday April 27th, 2020 9:18:08 PM
Anna says. "Is there any divination we could potentially try to get more information on the lich? I mean I know Pru is a sorcerer so she just can't go into a spellbook or anything but don't we have a paladin and a cleric? Do the Gods have a way to maybe give us divine inspiration about where we could potentially look for the lich?"
Prudence Gundle Monday April 27th, 2020 9:49:25 PM
"I can teleport a group back to the Citadel," Pru reminds her friends. "We can report in person, rather than sending a message." She frowns. "Maybe somebody at the Citadel could cast a divination for us? Because I don't think I have anything that will help. I could go to the Catacombs and get a scroll of something, but all the really good ones are cleric spells which I can't cast."
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Tuesday April 28th, 2020 12:12:17 AM
Michael nods his head. with a farming community even the city council does double duty mucking the stalls and weeding the fields. lord knows the big city rules could do with some of that.
Michael tucks in and enjoys the feed and beer. The fare may not be Haute cusine, but it's simple flavorful and filling. what more could a soldier ask for?
The Mug (DM JeffO) Tuesday April 28th, 2020 2:23:43 PM
Sigvar and Trayvin are a little nervous about meeting with the entire town. Nikolai tells Earl that two days is acceptable. Earl replies, “Well now, for you, since you folk are clearly in a hurry, I could see if I could use my influence to set things up for tomorrow, in the evening.” Sense Motive, DC 25: Highlight to display spoiler: {He is simply trying to show that he has influence, perhaps his head is just a little inflated…}
Lennox calls out, “Sure, tomorrow. Maybe with some ale.” About that moment, a rather stout-looking human female steps through the door. She has short, cropped, uneven hair and her face is tanned and worn. She looks very fit and strong. She stands just inside the door and surveys the group. She calls out, “Earl, now what’s all this going on?”
Earl replies, “Ah, Marina, these are the folks that have been over to the castle. Fought with a lich or something over there. We’ll be calling a town meeting tomorrow eve to let everyone know about and give everyone a chance to ask questions.”
Marina looks over the group, eyeing each member, sizing up everyone. She says, “Dealt with it, then?”
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Tuesday April 28th, 2020 7:23:18 PM
Sigvar has simple paladin spells, mostly smiting and protection, so he has no way of finding the lich other than pissing it off and waiting for it to come for him
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Tuesday April 28th, 2020 7:45:11 PM I can try to use most of the divination spells that may be of use. The better one requires 500gp worth of incense, which I do not currently have. If we can get the incense, think of some questions to ask and I will try it. Aside from that we will need to continue our search. The divinations will likely only lead us in the right direction, they are not usually perfect answers.
Marina, we have been in combat with this creature and survived. We believe we can defeat it completely if needed, but it's current location is unknown. The rest of the castle has been cleared of a number of undesirables that will no longer threaten the town.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Tuesday April 28th, 2020 10:11:12 PM
OOC: spending some Hero Points for Divine Inspiration can, up to the DM, reveal what we need, or close enough to it. It is all up to the DM and could be cryptic enough not to do us any real good if the DM is 'EVIL'. :)
IC: "Tomorrow eve it is, then."
He turns to Pru, "That gives us time to jump to the Citadel and see what we can scrounge up there that might help locate the lich, give the Commander an update, then jump back. If the Fist agrees to this little trip."
OOC: Put your votes in, foks. Stay here for two days or jump back to the Citadel for a day.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday April 28th, 2020 10:16:39 PM
"I would suggest that some of us go back to make a quick report, while the rest stay here," Pru says. "I can use Telepathic Bond to keep in touch with both groups, so if the lich does make a sudden reappearance, we can blip right back here."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Wednesday April 29th, 2020 12:21:33 AM
Anna says, "I can go to either place. You know if we are providing the refreshment for the meeting do you guys know how much kegs of beer cost? I'm thinking maybe I just start pulling full kegs out of my bag of tricks and working with Earl to get them tapped and ready to serve."
Pompous Mistbane (Yves_B) AC 27 CMD 30, HP 136/136/ Wednesday April 29th, 2020 7:17:58 AM
Pompous says "I'd like to be of the group going back to the keep. I don't feel that I have much to offer here. "
The Mug (DM JeffO) Wednesday April 29th, 2020 12:56:49 PM
When leaving is mentioned, Earl puts up his hands in surrender, “Now, now, there’s no need to go running off quite yet! Please, stay, be our guest. We would be glad to host you and ensure your needs are met here, right Earl?” The other Earl nods his head and Lennox calls out, “Meet your needs!” Portia serves another plate of stew and says, “Oh yes, please do stay. I’m sure others would be glad to meet you and talk to you. It would only be proper, of course.” Marina pipes in, “Sure. Planning to run off, then? Running to something or running from something, eh?” About that time a face appears behind Marina. It is a tall and skinny fellow that looks a little pale. He says, “Adventurers? Here?” Marina rolls her eyes.
OOC: Divine Inspiration: It would benefit the townspeople and show them much more respect if you were to stay here and meet with them. Any of the group leaving would certainly engender quite a bit of suspicion from many of the people.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Wednesday April 29th, 2020 1:26:57 PM
Michael looks over the townsfolk who are around them right now. to his mind they have been living under the cruel indifferent tyranny of that lich for so long, it's almost like someone showed up in the middle of winter, the snow quit and the sun came out, they say they killed the winter, and now they want to leave? Michael does not know if that's the whole story. but this smoked sausage with onions and peppers is awesome. just a little fire that the beer cools down nicely.
could we just use a sending spell to update the commander on our progress. I'd suggest something like. "arrive town, heavy powerful monster infestation, and lich, lich at large, meeting with town to discuss. heavy evil presence at castle and lich. .
Prudence Gundle d20+21=31 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2020 6:14:03 PM
"Meeting our needs sounds nice," Pru says with a smile. "But, you know, we are soldiers. We answer to a commanding officer. We really ought to report in, let her know the situation. I want to magically transport some of us there, so we can make our report. We'd be back by suppertime. And if you like, one of you could come along. See the Citadel for yourself, tell our commanding officer what you think of us." Pru smiles.
[Diplomacy 31]
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Wednesday April 29th, 2020 9:37:38 PM Well hello there, and who might you be? Trayvin says to the man behind Marina. It would seem the townsfolk are much more willing to meet with the Agents now that they have returned from the castle. Trayvin still feels as though there is more going on here than is currently known.
OOC- I think Pru and Nikolai should make a quick report to the Citadel, even if only by sending spell. Please let me know if you want me to prep those div spells the next time we rest.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Wednesday April 29th, 2020 11:42:19 PM
Anna takes the oppotunity to spread the word of Eberyon and his reformation to whoever will enjoin Anna in conversation.
(OOC: anyone engaging NPC or PC gets +2 to next save; this can only happen once per module for each non cradled participant)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Thursday April 30th, 2020 12:32:06 AM
Nikolai is quick to affirm that they Fist is NOT abandoning them. "Rest assured that we will be here tomorrow for the meeting and we certainly don't think our job is done here. But a few of us do need to report our findings to our commander."
He turns to Pru, "You and Pompous go back to report our findings. Then go to the library what you can find out about cleansing the evil and finding the lich. The rest of us will stay here and make sure no wandering monster bothers the town. Our presence will affirm our resolve to fully cleans the castle. Just be back before the meeting. Give my regards to the Commander."
"So, is there an Inn here?"
Pompous Mistbane (Yves_B) AC 27 CMD 30, HP 136/136/ Thursday April 30th, 2020 7:08:18 AM
Unintentianaly, Pompous cracks a smile when he hears that he and Pru Pru are going back to the citadel. His near death experience has shaken him. Hard. The ranger isn't used to taking damage and this incident has sent him in a bit of a depression.
"Well my lady Pru Pru... shall we be on our way? "
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Thursday April 30th, 2020 7:43:35 AM " I'll be staying. This food is great and I want to be sitting here when ol' dead and confused comes back looking for payback." Sigvar agrees that the sausage is quite nice, but thinks an apple slice is a much better way to cool the spices from it.
The Mug (DM JeffO) Thursday April 30th, 2020 2:40:26 PM
The group considers their next option. Michael suggests sending a simple message. Pru suggests going with Pompous to report in. Anna enjoys the company and starts conversations about Eberyon. Nikolai tries to reassure them the Agents aren’t abandoning them. Trayvin engages the new arrival.
Marina looks over Pru and crosses her arms in front of her chest. She says nothing. When Travin greets him, the skinny fellow steps out and tries to cross the room but almost trips over his own feet, stumbling along. He gets to his feet and his small dagger almost falls off his belt. It is clearly strapped in the wrong place. He holds his hand out and says, “I’m Michael. I’m going to be an adventurer one day, too!”
Earl says, “I’ll go out and start spreading the word of a meeting tomorrow. Earl and Portia will take care of you here in The Mug.” The other Earl mumbles, “The Full Mug Tavern.” When Nikolai mentions an inn, Portia speaks up, “Well, we’ve got some rooms here, upstairs.” She looks over at Sigvar and continues, “But I’m not sure they’re quite large enough for all of you…”
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Thursday April 30th, 2020 6:16:45 PM Greetings Michael. So what made you decide to want to be an adventurer? It can be a very difficult job. I'm sure there are many jobs here in town that you could try first. Maybe you want to make sure before deciding eh?
Prudence Gundle Thursday April 30th, 2020 8:50:26 PM
[Pru had offered to take one of the townsfolk to the Citadel with them. It was mostly a goodwill gesture, but it was a serious offer. Do any of the townsfolk seem to want to go?]
"One moment," she tells Pompous. She casts Telepathic Bond on herself, Sigvar, and Nikolai. "Holler if the lich comes back," she tells them.
She smiles at the townsfolk. "Back in a jiffy!" she assures them.
Then, if none of them want to come along, she teleports herself and Pompous back to the Citadel.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Thursday April 30th, 2020 9:01:48 PM
Anna says to Michael, "Hello Michael. You know adventurers have the capacity to shape the Wold. For example when the Sargrass crisis occurred all the heroes of the Wold came together and prevented the out of control red sargrass from spreading over everything and it was a group of adventurers that spared Lord Eberyon and gave him a second chance for which to atone and ever since then he's been offering assistance to mortals. While I respect Eberyon and have entered into a pact with him of sorts my Lady Queen Eberyon has also blessed me too. Have you thought about working with the fey in your adventuring career?"
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Thursday April 30th, 2020 9:41:22 PM
Michael matter- o- factly walks over and making sure that Michael sees him, he begins to rearrange the kids dagger so that it's more secure and accessible. once he gets it right he motions for the kid to mimic his actions.
He first draws his dagger with a saber grip. then quickly spins it to a reverse grip. he shows how the saber is best for the attack, but the reverse is best for defense.
after watching for a bit, he speaks. You've got the fire in your belly. but don't have the skill or discipline to do much besides be a casualty. We could use a man like you, you'd get the training you need, and the discipline, see a bit of the world. then you would be ready to become a real adventurer.
Bow slung over his should and his hand on the hilt of his blade, he welcomes the trip back home. Even if it's only for a short time.
The Mug (DM JeffO) Friday May 1st, 2020 4:17:55 PM
Trayvin, Anna, and Michael all engage with skinny Michael. He looks down as Michael adjust his dagger. Michael can tell it is little more than a butter knife with a point at this stage. As his belt is adjusted, he tells Trayvin, “I had a dream! It was a really good one and in it I was slaying a giant green dragon! So I know I’m destined to be a powerful adventurer of legend!” He listens intently when Anna describes the Sargrass. He replies, “Oh, working with fey sounds wonderful. I can imagine fighting back the red grass myself!” He mimics swinging a sword and knocks Nikolai’s mug off the table and onto his lap. He doesn’t appear to notice that he’s even done so as he is looking up and fighting imaginary monsters.
Meanwhile, Pru and Pompous poof back to the citadel. They arrive in the gathering room, a place they have used in the past for gathering before and after adventures. This place is usually used only by their group, so no one is there, but there is seldom anyone there.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Friday May 1st, 2020 6:17:21 PM " What was the Dragon's name?" Sigvar still leans casually against the wall, but he is now slightly on edge.If it is the same dragon, the kid may actually be important to their cause.
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Friday May 1st, 2020 6:44:17 PM If you are serious about becoming an adventurer, then you will need some help. There are several organizations that will train new recruits in the basics, including the one we work for. Would training be of interest to you?
Well, it could be just a dream, or maybe the kid had an actual vision. Trayvin is mostly interested in Michael's answer to Sigvar's question. But he doesn't want to push it more since it may lead him into telling a story instead telling the details of his dream.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Friday May 1st, 2020 10:58:44 PM yep. dreams can carry you to awesome places. but don't let dreams be your master. What was that poem.....
Ah yes!...ahem...
If you can keep your head when all about you Are losing theirs and blaming it on you, If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you, But make allowance for their doubting too; If you can wait and not be tired by waiting, Or being lied about, don’t deal in lies, Or being hated, don’t give way to hating, And yet don’t look too good, nor talk too wise:
If you can dream—and not make dreams your master; If you can think—and not make thoughts your aim; If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster And treat those two impostors just the same; If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools, Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken, And stoop and build ’em up with worn-out tools:
If you can make one heap of all your winnings And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss, And lose, and start again at your beginnings And never breathe a word about your loss; If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew To serve your turn long after they are gone, And so hold on when there is nothing in you Except the Will which says to them: ‘Hold on!’
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue, Or walk with Kings—nor lose the common touch, If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you, If all men count with you, but none too much; If you can fill the unforgiving minute With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run, Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it, And—which is more—you’ll be a Man, my son!
Prudence Gundle Saturday May 2nd, 2020 12:20:08 AM
Knowing their time at the Citadel is limited, Pru immediately seeks an audience with Captain Palance.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Sunday May 3rd, 2020 9:44:48 PM
Nikolai doesn't think filling the kid's head with stories will be the wisest thing but lets his friends go on. When his drink is bumped in his lap, he mutters, "Dang, Pru just left and I need a clean-up cantrip!"
He politely moves further away from the young Michael and gets a refill.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Sunday May 3rd, 2020 11:17:53 PM
Anna says to the kid, "Mayhap your dream is a portent of what your destiny is. When I changed to become a morphling I thought my lady came to me in a dream but it was no dream. It was real. She changed who I was and I metamorphisized into something new. Mayhap your dream will do the same for you?"
DM Warren (transition town) Monday May 4th, 2020 3:44:51 PM
The boy Michael looks up in confusion. I was too busy slaying the Dragon to catch its name. I hope I don't have to memorize Dragon names or poems to be an adventurer. That doesn't sound as fun.
Back at the Citadel, Pru is a woman on a mission. She and Pompous come to the base of the tower where Commander Palance's office is and finds her page, who gets up to climb the stairs and let the Commander know that the Agents are here. Where's the rest of you? Did everything go ok on your mission? He looks genuinely worried that something could have happened to the rest of them.
He does wisn that he would have had time to put a shine on his boots before presenting himself in front of the commander.
Oh well. C'est la vie.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet d20+6=25 ; Monday May 4th, 2020 5:47:47 PM
Sigvar steels himself and manages not to laugh. He then asks, "Where is this dragon you killed." As he does so it occurs to him that this was the perfect story to lure some of the Agents out of town. This makes him look the boy over more closely and to detect evil on him. Sense Motive 25
Prudence Gundle Monday May 4th, 2020 6:56:47 PM
"We're fine," Pru assures the page. "Just checking in. And we needed a bit of advice, so here we are."
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Monday May 4th, 2020 7:43:23 PM Well you wont need to memorize names or poems, but being able to remember details can sometimes be useful. Do you remember any more details about your dream?
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 d20+21=24 ; d20+12=32 ; Monday May 4th, 2020 8:26:17 PM
quietly Michael is sizing this guy up.
perception 24
sense motive 32 ( natch 20!).
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Monday May 4th, 2020 9:31:17 PM
If Anna's detect undead cone is still in effect she idly turns her gaze towards Michael the young dragon dreaming adventurer just to make sure that the kid doesn't have some kind of undead spirit tormenting him the way that weird lich did.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Tuesday May 5th, 2020 12:17:55 AM
Nikolai does not take the kid's story to heart. When a person has a strong desire, it sometimes comes out in dreams, and those dreams can appear very real to the person dreaming it. But it is only a dream. Naturally, he didn't kill it with his pocket knife.
"Maybe a clue to your destiny is in the weapon you used to kill your dragon. What weapon and armor were you wearing? That would indicate what martial arts school to enroll you in," Nikolai chimes in.
DM Warren (transition town) Tuesday May 5th, 2020 3:17:47 PM ooc - I'm going to try to do updates around lunchtime PST
The page runs up the stairs, with Pompous and Prudence following behind at a more dignified pace. They reach the office which is in it's usual comfortable state of disorder and find a slightly more harried than normal looking Knight Commander. She doesn't look abnormally stressed, it's just as though she didn't have time to make herself presentable since there was no notice of her Agents coming home.
Is showing up unannounced to be a new thing for you? I didn't even have time to pull my hair back. I take it you have something urgent to report.
Back in Whitebridge, the other Agents continue their interview of the aspiring adventurer. He racks his brain, and you can almost imagine steam coming out of his ears as the gears turn. His motives are genuine, as he tries to remember his glorious dream.
You know how dreams are. They fade so quickly. Ummm - all I can remember is swinging a sword. I gave the dragon one of these, and one of these! He swings his butterknife around somewhat haphazardly, and the Agents can tell that he doesn't have any idea how to use a real blade. There is no sense of evil about him, and all Anna can tell from her spell is that the background evil in the town may be ever so slightly less.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Tuesday May 5th, 2020 4:20:58 PM
Sigvar's shoulders relax at the indication that the lad is, as far as the Paladin can tell, not evil.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday May 5th, 2020 6:40:14 PM
"It is, ma'am," Pru says. "I apologize for the short notice. I just learned to Teleport, you see, and strictly speaking, we aren't exactly finished with the mission but we're kind of stuck and aren't sure how to proceed."
She pauses for breath. That all came out wrong. She wishes Nikolai were here. He's better at this. "Ahem. What I mean is, we traveled to the town of Whitebridge and spoke to the locals. They reported that the castle has 'always' been at the edge of town, and that an old man had 'always' lived there. They also reported strange phenomena coming from the castle. There was a group of orcs, which we fought. They were....not like normal orcs. They'd been changed somehow.
"After we dispatched the orcs, we made our way into the castle. Exploring it took several days. There were traps and nonliving guardians. Finally we made it to the top floor and confronted the old man. We fought. It was a hard fight. He cast a spell that filled the room with a toxic cloud nobody could see through. By the time we figured out how to clear the room, he was gone. I didn't hear him cast a spell, but it was pretty noisy in there. He could have teleported, or plane shifted; I don't know. We used detection spells, but could find no trace of him.
"So we decided to come back here, report in, and get some direction for what to do next. We don't have access to good divination spells, so we can't figure out where he is or whether he'll come back. Sigvar says the entire castle radiates evil, and we'd like to do something about that, but we're not sure if there's a ritual powerful enough to cleanse it. And bringing it down would take more power than we can muster.
"So, um, that's the situation. Pompous, anything to add?"
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Tuesday May 5th, 2020 9:01:44 PM
The boy seems harmless. Well Michael, that sounds like a wild adventure of a dream.
Sigvar, what do you say we do a patrol around town after we eat? Maybe we can find some clues to the old man's disappearance.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Tuesday May 5th, 2020 9:56:23 PM
(OOC: my spell was detect undead not detect evil; so I will take the reading I get is the kid is not an undead)
Anna says, "Michael, if you are to be an adventurer you are going to need some training. The way you wielded that butter knife is no way to enter combat. Let me show you something." She reaches into her bag of tricks and pulls out 2 blunt wooden practice swords, one for her and one for the kid. She tosses one to Michael and says, "right, first rule is the pointy end goes in the other guy..."
She then attempts to share with the kid some of what she has learned I mean she did start out as a fighter herself so before she followed the path of the fey she did have a more martial bent.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Tuesday May 5th, 2020 11:27:19 PM
Michael moseys over to the barkeep. and strikes up a conversation with him. Earl, I'm kind of confused. I'm a soldier, but I've always been curious. and from what I'm getting from the town, this castle has been here for as long as anyone can remember, but nobody was curious about it? surely someone ventured over to it at some point?
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Tuesday May 5th, 2020 11:28:32 PM
Nikolai hides a grin as the kid describes his battle with the dragon. 'You always win in a dream, and always wake up just before your hands grab the treasure."
"I'll go with you Michael and Sigvar. I'd like to get the lay of the town anyway."
DM Warren (transition town) Wednesday May 6th, 2020 2:53:06 PM @Anna - intended to be a no on evil and undead
Kid Michael struggles to hold up the sword. He's not used to holding something the size of a real sword, much less the weight. Gee, adventuring is hard.
While Anna takes the kid's measure, the others patrol town. Earl tells them about some kids that would dare each other to play some game called ding dong ditch, where they would go to the castle door, ring a cowbell, and run away. But otherwise, it was just a fixture of the landscape. Nothing seemed to go in or out, and it eventually faded into the background.
There's still no sign of the old man, any more orcs or guardians, or any further evil.
Back at the citadel, Palance mulls over the Agents' report. Well, we can always see about getting someone from the church out to consecrate the grounds. It may take more than one casting, or more than one cleric. They could do the divinations as well, but that would start getting expensive. I'm not sure the town, or we, have the funds to facilitate all that.
For now, keep patrolling. If there's a sign of the lich, take care of him. Maybe we can divine the location of his phylactery. If we take care of that, maybe the evil will dissipate on its own.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet d20+5=9 ; Wednesday May 6th, 2020 3:08:08 PM
Sigvar goes on patrol with the others and keeps his eyes open for trouble. Perception 9
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 d20+21=37 ; Wednesday May 6th, 2020 8:34:56 PM
Michael walks with the others. patrol is a part of being a soldier, and it's also a good way of interdicting trouble before it finds you. Michael keeps his eyes open. being alert is a zen thing. Hyper alertness is too focused on one thing. when you are scanning for trouble, you have to let your eyes wander, and to a certain extent your mind as well. not a daydream, but an open mind, no thoughts, just the subconscious cataloging of experience to try and find the off thing. sometimes its a washerwoman, who hangs a shirt up still full of suds. other times it's the town folk, walking a bit too stiff, or giving the crew a panicked eye. other times it's just a rustling of brush, just before the Orcs charge out. once it was the smell of tobacco smoke and unwashed bodies that allowed the agents to get the jump on a potential ambush. Michael is a lot better at picking out the subtle clues now, so many battles, so many adventures. he falls into his breath so easily now it's almost his constant state of being.
perception 37.
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Wednesday May 6th, 2020 10:03:20 PM Earl, are there any other pressing issues for the town? Until we can track down the lich, maybe there is something else we could help out with.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Wednesday May 6th, 2020 10:26:55 PM
Anna says to Michael, "Would you prefer a quarterstaff, training rapier or training dagger? I can pull any of those from my bag if you want if you think any of those weapons might be more to your liking? What about a short bow or a sling? I'm trying to help you as I'd hate to see you get hurt so I figure if I share with some of what you know maybe you'll be better prepared if an adventure does end up finding you."
Prudence Gundle Thursday May 7th, 2020 12:38:54 AM
Pru lets out a little sigh of relief. "Thank you, ma'am," she says. "We will return to Whitebridge and continue patrols. Would you like me to check back in a few days? Or how do you want to stay in touch?"
DM Warren (transition town) Thursday May 7th, 2020 2:56:56 PM
Earl ponders Trayvin's questions for a moment. Well, we can always use more hands raising a barn or two... We didn't really have any problems until those Orcs started harassing us.
Little Michael thinks about choices of weapons for a minute. I don't think a staff is suitable for a future adventurer of my caliber! I guess I can start with a dagger though, until I get big and strong like you.
The Agents on patrol are pleasantly surprised by how quickly the town is going back to normal. Yes, Michael still sees some people walking stiffly or looking over their shoulders for danger, but there are also children running through the streets, kicking a ball and getting underfoot, and mothers aren't shepherding them inside so quickly, offering apologies to the Agents before getting back to choring.
Commander Palance tells Pru and Pompous to stop by and see Q, she should be able to give them a couple of scrolls of sending to use to check in. I'll let you know if we get any leads on purifying rituals in the meantime.
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Thursday May 7th, 2020 8:37:55 PM
Trayvin is glad to see the town getting somewhat back to normal, but he still feels the Agents work here is not yet complete.
Well Earl, we certainly should be able to help with that. I might even be able to scrounge up some magic to aid in the construction.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Thursday May 7th, 2020 8:38:10 PM
Sigvar watches the children as they play and run and get up to the kind of trouble children will get into. It was good. They needed to be able to run about and grow up tough. Not that that would help them against a lich, or demon orcs, but it was still good.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Thursday May 7th, 2020 9:46:18 PM
Anna takes out 2 training daggers from her bag of tricks, gives one to Little Michael and says, "Right so this should be more managable. The principle is still the same. Pointy end goes in the other guy, now en garde!"
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Thursday May 7th, 2020 11:05:24 PM
Michael can feel the peace of the town. the people have the look of folk who've been given a reprieve. but the kids. Ah, kids. given half a chance nothing stops the play No ma'am, the kids are okay. it's good to see them out playing, I enjoy the sounds of happy kids. . and he does. maybe it's because his childhood was alternately focused on learning skills or focused on survival. he thinks it might have been nice to grow up without a care in the world. not that he is regretful or bitter or anything, he rather enjoys his life as it is. the skills and the watchfulness have served him well and living a different life...well he would not have had those things when he needed them. Whos to say he cannot enjoy being a kid now.
Hey kids! want to play hide and seek? I'll go hide and whoever finds me before the sun goes behind that tree over there, I'll give them a silver piece! Michael produces a silver piece and shows it to the kids. now you got to give me to the count of 30 to get hidden, but then you try and find me. okay?.
if the kids take him up on the game. Michael finds a spot to hide that has a DC 15 chance. my stealth is 30 so I an intentionaly nerfing it. the time I've framed euals about an hour. if no one finds me in 30 min I move to a DC 13 spot. 15 min...dc 10. I want to get found, but I want the kids to work for it.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Friday May 8th, 2020 12:26:42 AM
Nikolai watches and takes in the village layout as they patrol. He waves to a villager here and there and smiles. Nikolai chuckles at Michael's attempt to get some cash back into the village.
Meanwhile he wonders how Pru and Pompous are doing...
Prudence Gundle Friday May 8th, 2020 1:27:28 AM
"Thanks." Pru grins at Pompous, then heads off to get the scrolls from Q.
[Reminder: Pru is telepathically linked to Nikolai and Sigvar. If Nikolai wants an update, all he has to do is ask. :) ]
" Well, after the scrolls are we heading right back? "
DM Warren (transition town) d6=3 ; d20=14 ; d20=14 ; d20=18 ; Friday May 8th, 2020 7:05:14 PM
Nikolai, Sigvar, and Pru have a quick mental chitchat to update on the status of the citadel and the town. Seems like they'll be in town for a little bit, just to make sure things stay on the up and up.
Anna finds a much more enthusiastic partner, now that he can hold the training weapon for more than a few moments without his arms beginning to strain from the weight. It seems like he might need a training regimen before any real weapons training can begin. And some extra dinner might help, too.
Michael entices 3 kids into playing his game. He's wondering if he made it too easy, two of them have almost caught on when the third sneaks up behind him and tags his shoulder. Michael plays it so that he thinks he didn't notice, but is pretty proud of these kids for their amateur sleuthing skills.
Trayvin is eager to begin helping the villagers, and Pompous starts taking care of business around the citadel so they can get the team back together.
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Friday May 8th, 2020 7:41:13 PM Earl, how many temples do you have in town? I'd like to stop by and see how they are doing.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Friday May 8th, 2020 8:30:33 PM
Michael laughs. and gives the kid the silver. you are pretty good. not many folk can sneak up on me when you get a bit older, you could be a great scout. Look up the Mailed fist and mention Michael Wittman, if you ever want to see some adventure. . Hey. what do you kids know about that old castle across the bridge? you ever meet the guy that lived there? got any good stores?
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Friday May 8th, 2020 9:09:49 PM
Anna says to Little Michael, "I think that is enough for one day. Now let's get you something to eat and we can discuss training regimens that can help you become stronger over dinner."
She escorts the lad back to Earl's and orders him a hearty meal, paying for it of course.
She details to Little Michael some of the exercises she's done over the course of her career as conditioning and tries to figure out if there are any analogs in the surrounding village that Little Michael could do to get himself into shape.
Prudence Gundle Saturday May 9th, 2020 1:59:18 PM
"I had planned to go right back," Pru tells Pompous. "But if you have something you need to do, we certainly have time."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Monday May 11th, 2020 12:15:55 AM
It bothers Nikolai that the Lich seems no where to be found. The old man had been cloistered in his castle for so long it didn't seem likely that the phylactery could have been hidden any place else. It appears that only time will tell, and Nikolai didn't know if he had the patience to wait, or that any other job that came their way would wait either.
DM Warren (transition town) Monday May 11th, 2020 3:14:52 PM Temple...s? We don't really have any organized worship. Everyone just makes their own dedications. If we ever need a rite performed, we go to a bigger town, or ask Gamma Herry. She's old enough that she knows just about everything.
The kids don't know anything about the castle inhabitants. And stores are things for the big city on market day. Nothing here in town, other than local balcksmithing, carpentry, and the like.
The Agents start wrapping up their chores in town and thinking about dinner and accomodations. Pompous and Pru take care of whatever last things they want to do back home before coming back. don't want to rush you, just making sure you're ok with moving on.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Monday May 11th, 2020 5:14:27 PM
Sigvar will roll out his bedroll with the others if no bed is available. Best they stay together for now.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Monday May 11th, 2020 7:43:30 PM
Gamma Herry huh. Michael ask the kids if they can take him to see this person. she might be a good source of info.
Prudence Gundle Monday May 11th, 2020 8:35:21 PM
Pru teleports herself and Pompous back to town. She arrives outside the inn, with some vague idea that just popping into the inn might unsettle some people.
If the townsfolk offer accommodations, she accepts, and tries to make the best of it.
She can cast the Magnificent Mansion again, if needed, but she wants to avoid "putting on airs," or acting as iff the accommodations aren't good enough. Pru's from a small town herself; she knows how that can be misinterpreted.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Monday May 11th, 2020 9:16:36 PM
While dining with Little Michael she can't help but overhear something about Gamma Herry from Regular Sized Michael and the kids he had been dealing with so she asks Little Michael, "So what can you tell me about this Gamma Herry character that the Fist's Michael and the children of your village are going on about?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Tuesday May 12th, 2020 12:54:05 AM
Nikolai returns from the patrol and finds Pru and Pompous returned. He doesn't ask any questions, figuring they will give an update when out of earshot of the villagers.
The story of the old woman catches his attention and comments that they should pay her a visit. If they are going to be around a while, they might as well meet all the residents. He hopes she will be at the town meeting, but if not, they will go see her themselves.
DM Warren (transition town) Tuesday May 12th, 2020 5:41:59 PM Oh, Gamma is nice. Old as anything. But she doesn't need help with aught. She makes clothes for some of us from her sheeps' wool, and looks after Colin. She's probably abed right now, but she gets up earlier than anyone, too.
When they start thinking about sleep, Portia says that she has beds for 4, but nothing that will fit Sigvar. I don't even think you would fit through the door, sir. Marina may have some room for you to bed down, if you ask nicely.
Pru thinks about her mansion, but worries about insulting the accommodation of their hosts. Sense motive 15: Highlight to display spoiler: {Pru is right - making a mansion would probably make Earl and Portia upset.}
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Tuesday May 12th, 2020 5:50:16 PM
Sigvar just sets up camp on the outskirts of town. He stays awake and watchful throughout the night and removes his fatigue in the morning with a lay on hands before his prayers.
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Tuesday May 12th, 2020 7:52:05 PM
Trayvin will join Sigvar's campsite. It might prove useful to keep an eye on things around the town at nighttime.
In the morning, Trayvin intends to visit Gamma Herry with the other Agents who expressed interest. If anyone here could tell them something new about that castle or its' inhabitants, it would be her.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 d20+1=4 ; d20+27=39 ; d20+12=24 ; d20+17=31 ; Tuesday May 12th, 2020 11:23:31 PM
Sense Motive: 4
Anna tries to gauge whether Portia and Earl would be offended if she told them that she didn't need to sleep. She goes to Pru and whispers, "Think they'd be offended if I told them that plant kin don't need to sleep?"
If she gets the sense about offending their hosts or Pru tells her she would she only pretends to sleep keeping a watchful eye through the night.
(Disguise: 39) (Bluff: 24) (Perception: 31)
Prudence Gundle Tuesday May 12th, 2020 11:38:26 PM
Pro whispers back to Anna, "we need to fill the rooms they offered. After that, people can do whatever."
To her host and hostess, Pru says, "thank you so much for finding room for us. I know we can be a lot to handle!" She accepts one of the rooms.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Wednesday May 13th, 2020 12:11:29 AM
Michael takes a room, he asks for an empty bottle or tankard to take with him to the room. once in the room he closes the door, balances the bottle/tankard on the handle, then runs his string around the room across the shutters, across the door, and then to a loop placed around his big toe. anyone opening the shutters or opening the door will tug on his toe waking him and giving him a precious few seconds to get ready. Michael can Iron man if he has to. but with no magic, it's best to get a good night's sleep. so he doffs his leathers, his armor, and his blades but sets them where they are within easy reach should he need them.
he checks beneath the bed if it's dirty he cleans it up. then he makes the bed to look as though it' is being slept in, but he sleeps under the bed on a pillow with his camp blanket. (as a halfling a pillow is a pretty good bed in its own right.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Wednesday May 13th, 2020 1:00:16 AM
Nikolai thanks them for the rooms and lets the team choose who will use them. He joins Trayvin and Sigvar camping out.
"Sigvar, Trayvin, think we should bring some kind of gift when we visit this old lady? Wonder what she'd like? Any ideas?"
DM Warren (transition town) Wednesday May 13th, 2020 2:51:51 PM
Pru, Pompous, Michael, and perhaps Nikolai happily take the rooms offered so graciously by their hosts, while Sigvar, Trayvin, Anna, and perhaps Nikolai rough it outside so as to keep watch through the night for any suspicious activity. Earl and Portia seem satisfied with the arrangement, and offer to feed everyone in the morning anyway.
Michael is extra careful with his room, though he finds no speck of dust beneath the bed. Nothing disturbs the sleep of those inside or out, other than the occasional animal sounds normal to the darkness.
They also wonder about some sort of gift to bring to Gamma Herry, though they don't know enough about her to bring anything specific. Perhaps something to comfort an old woman's aches and pains, or something to help in her shearing or crocheting.
They have most of the day to figure out what to bring her, and do whatever other chores, investigating, or socializing they'd like to do before the town meeting this evening.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday May 13th, 2020 8:00:34 PM
Pru agrees that Gamma Herry could be a valuable source of information. Privately, she thinks being respectful and minding her manners will be better than chancing any kind of gift, but she doesn't stop they others if that's what they want to do.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Wednesday May 13th, 2020 9:19:33 PM
Anna says, "Well I can pull a variety of mundane items from my bag of tricks and even some low level scrolls and potions. I guess the question is what kind of things does this Gamma Herry like and what could my bag produce that would be exceptionally of interest to her?"
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Thursday May 14th, 2020 4:20:31 PM If there is anything she needs, I'm sure she will let us know.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Thursday May 14th, 2020 5:15:14 PM
Sigvar Says his prayers in the morning, preparing for battle and s then ready to see the headlady of the village. He suspects she is the real power in this place.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Thursday May 14th, 2020 7:35:59 PM
Michael is up before breakfast. he performs his morning absolutions and meditates for a bit before the day. Mornings are almost as special as sleeping late. when he hears movement begin in the taven he goes downstairs to find out whats going on. He asks the barkeep what Gemma Herry's favorite food is. and once he finds out he puts a gold piece down on the bar and asks if the establishment can make it for her.
then Michael is off for his morning run. but he is sure to be back when breakfast is served.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Thursday May 14th, 2020 9:23:38 PM
Anna hears the suggestions of her Fist mates concerning getting Gamma Herry a blanket or her favorite food and decides to also ask around to find out what the woman might like. She also tries to find out if the woman is fond of any particular god or immortal power or if she likes any particular types of potent potables or has any hobbies.
Once she has that information she figures she can pull a decent enough gift.
Prudence Gundle Thursday May 14th, 2020 10:16:50 PM
"Maybe some nice tea?" Pru suggests. "Something she can't get locally?"
DM Warren (transition town) Thursday May 14th, 2020 10:31:05 PM
The Agents ponder what an old woman could like, and figure that just being nice and respectful may be the best way to win her approval. They could always ask Colin if they like (her young ward).
Luckily, Anna can get most anything they could think of, and by the time they knock on her door, they have a suitable gift.
A woman that looks nowhere near 80 years opens the door. Good morning. You must be those folks that kicked those nasty brutes out of town. Well, how can I help you? Would you like some tea and cookies?
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Friday May 15th, 2020 1:16:33 AM
Nikolai is expecting a rickety old woman and is surprised at who opens the door. At first he thinks that the woman is a helper or family member. However, in these circumstances, Pru does much better in taking the lead and remains quiet for now.
He smiles at the invitation for tea and cookies.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Friday May 15th, 2020 10:41:29 AM "Cookies? Yes Please."
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Friday May 15th, 2020 10:49:13 AM We would like to speak with you, if you would indulge us.
Trayvin agrees to have some tea, and helps her serve it if she lets him.
Prudence Gundle d20+21=37 ; Friday May 15th, 2020 12:10:10 PM
"Good day, ma'am," Pru says politely. "Yes, I think we would enjoy some tea, thank you for asking. We're looking for Gamma Herry. Is she at home?"
[Diplomacy 37]
DM Warren (transition town) Friday May 15th, 2020 3:32:04 PM
Gamma Herry perks up at the respectful address. She is certainly still sturdy, but when she walks, you can effect of the years on her. Little things, like the effort to keep her back straight and a slight tremor in her hands.
Yes, that's me. Looking at Sigvar, she thinks for a second. Maybe I'll bring those cookies out to the patio. Nik, was it? Come help me carry the tray. She turns and walks in, with no doubt that her help is coming. Soon enough, they're all out on the patio in improvised chairs with fresh hot tea and cookies to dunk in it.
Now, what questions did you have? You won't find anyone that knows more about this town than me, though Earl might say different. He'd be wrong though. She sips her tea with a quiet confidence and rocks a bit in her chair.
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Saturday May 16th, 2020 9:18:45 PM I guess we should start with the castle, how long has it been here, and do you know anything about the occupants?
Pompous (Yves_B) AC 27 CMD 30, HP 136/136/ Sunday May 17th, 2020 12:05:38 PM
Pompous bows politely to the lady before taking a spot out of the way. He politely declines the offer of tea bit will accept a cookie when offered.
- Many thanks Ms. Herry. -
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Sunday May 17th, 2020 11:24:31 PM
Anna says, 'I will try your tea and cookies, ma'am." She leaves the part out about not necessarily requiring food and drink for sustenance but she is showing herself as the plant kin that she is complete with the green skin and red sargrass colored leafy hair.
Anna says, "Regarding the castle, do you know how it came to be and who or what dwelt there?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Monday May 18th, 2020 1:00:46 AM
Nikolai helps gammy bring out the goodies but lets Pru take charge. Anna and Pru are better suited to chit-chatting with gammy than Nikolai, who'd sound way to professional rather than personal.
Prudence Gundle d20+21=26 ; Monday May 18th, 2020 1:11:51 PM
Pru sits and accepts the refreshment's she's offered.
"The reason we're asking all this," she explains, "is that the...the being we found in the castle has fled. We'd like to try to figure out where he went, because he seems to be quite dangerous. We would appreciate any insight you might have for us."
[Diplomacy 26]
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Monday May 18th, 2020 5:35:13 PM
Sigvar remains silent as the others are more personable and have this well in hand
DM Warren (transition town) Monday May 18th, 2020 6:00:46 PM Hmmn. Well... She leans back a bit in her chair, rubbing her chin and thinking. A large brown cat takes advantage of her suddenly free lap and snuggles in for some chin scratching.
The castle has just always been there. We didn't think anything about it until recently, it was just part of the landscape. Now that you mention it, it does seem a bit lighter around here. There's been a heaviness in the air.
The heaviness had been getting worse recently. Settling in, and then those brutes. The kids weren't even daring to play on the bridge. Come to think of it, I did see a youngin going up that way this morning. I hadn't even thought about it until now, but that must be a sign that things are getting back to normal.
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Monday May 18th, 2020 7:36:30 PM
Trayvin looks around at the other Agents. They did clear the place out, but with the 'old man' missing there was no guarantee the place was safe. Probably should have expressed that better to the townsfolk they have been talking to. This might have to be a quick visit.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Tuesday May 19th, 2020 12:06:10 AM
Anna says to Gamma Herry, "You know that always just had been there response was what we got from Lennox too. Isn't it just a bit odd to build a town around a castle which you know nothing about? I'm not criticising you guys or anything but is it possible there was some kind of spell or something on the castle that made you guys not question it"
Anna waits until they have taken their leave of Gamma Herry and tells the others a plan that is starting to form in her head.
She says, "You know how the Dragon groups are based out of castles? We aren't a dragon group, but if we decided to occupy this castle as our new base of operations? I mean Pru can teleport people back to the Citadel if we need to talk to commander or anything but if this job isn't done and we are worried about the old man coming back, what better way to ensure this then have this place be where we are stationed when we aren't adventuring. The only problem is if we are stuck here then we can't go adventuring. I don't think the citadel wants to relocate here though and I'm not sure what with the fallout from the Fist Civil War if we have enough recruits to garrison a permanent force that wouldn't be just our Fist here. Do you guys have any thoughts on this?"
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Tuesday May 19th, 2020 7:07:02 AM
Sitting with big folk when you are one of the wee folk can be a challenge. barstools offer the best opportunity to remain social, but chairs, they can be a problem, especially when the table is high. so Michale has taken to keeping his backpack handy as sort of a booster seat.
to Anna after they have taken their leave. . The rooms are too tight. and I'm saying that as the smallest guy on the team. I would not even call it a castle...it's more of an oddly apportioned blockhouse.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday May 19th, 2020 11:37:07 AM
"Thank you, ma'am," Pru says as they take their leave of Gamma Herry. "It's nice to know that things are getting back to normal."
Afterward, talking with her companions, Pru says, "Captain Palance wants us to continue to patrol here for the time being. I have some Message scrolls so we can communicate with her if something comes up. There wasn't any mention of a permanent relocation, but I suppose anything could happen."
DM Warren (transition town) Tuesday May 19th, 2020 5:40:48 PM
Trayvin and Anna discuss checking out the activity at the castle, and do some planning regarding long-term basing here, if appropriate. Michael doubts that the castle is big enough to be called that, or to suit their needs. Still, it has some good bones if future expansion should be deemed necessary.
Pru fills in the others on the direction from Palance, and how to let her know of any developments. The others enjoy the chat and the company, and then let the old woman get back to her choring.
They still have several hours left before the town meeting to do with as they'd like, whether that's interviewing more people around town, checking out the activity back at the castle, or just kicking back and relaxing before the meeting.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Tuesday May 19th, 2020 5:59:27 PM " Do you know the name of the child you saw this morning, and who in town he belongs to?" Sigvar was starting to have a bad feeling. The child could just be a town kid going for a look see at the castle, which was full of traps that rearmed themselves if he recalled correctly. OR he could be the wizard sneaking back home in disguise. Either way it bore investigation. He rose and thanked the old lady for her hospitality and checked his gear, making the excuse that they should go check on that kid before he got hurt.
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Tuesday May 19th, 2020 8:51:59 PM I agree with you Sigvar, we need to find that kid and make sure he is safe, and then maybe put something at the castle to keep curious townspeople out until it is completely safe.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday May 19th, 2020 10:31:04 PM
Pru is all in favor of making sure the kid is all right, though she's pretty sure he is. She shakes her head a little at Trayvin's suggestion. "I think the best way to keep people out is to explain at the town meeting why the place is still dangerous," she said. "A sign or something like that isn't going to have nearly the same impact."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Tuesday May 19th, 2020 11:35:04 PM
Anna says, "That is why I think we stay there if our orders are to maintain here and continue the patrol. By basing ourself out of the castle we can prevent curious townfolk from entering unattended and if the wizard lich old man comes back we can actually have surprises in store for him this time around. I understand that it is less than ideal so maybe we send Pru, Sigvar and myself out on patrol in the nearby areas to look for him or the Phylactery. Sigvar can detect evil and Pru can teleport us back to the town if we find anything and I can pretty much fly indefinitely if I use my queen's shapes blessing as beast shape. I mean we could do other things but might that be a good idea? It would allow us to look for the lich or his phylactery nearby and it would protect curious villagers from the castle. Maybe we could even cast other wards on the place if we all need to leave for somewhere to deter people from entering."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Wednesday May 20th, 2020 1:39:27 AM "I agree. We need to stay here a while, even if it is to make sure that 'evil' presence' feeling goes away for sure. As far as adapting the castle for our big and shorter folk, that's easier. Those floors with the trap corridors can be redone to accommodate whomever and whatever size, and just a few stone shaping spells can enlarge the doorways without much trouble."
Nikolai surmises that a few farmers, seeing a castle, thought it would be protection enough to keep baddies away, and apparently it did and the hamlet grew to a village. After a while you just get used to seeing a castle but no garrison. Going unmolested all this time they had no cause to put much thought into it and just happy to raise crops and feed their families.
Pompous (Yves_B) AC 27 CMD 30, HP 136/136/ Wednesday May 20th, 2020 10:03:35 AM
Pompous listens intently. He slowly resolved himself to the thought that the group will be staying here. Thus the life of a military man. Follow orders and keep your mouth shut.
- I can go look for the boy. - He offers.
DM Warren (transition town) Wednesday May 20th, 2020 4:04:30 PM
While they may not have figured out their long term course quite yet, The Agents know that kids shouldn't be poking around the castle. When they ask Gamma Herry who it was, she thinks a bit. You know, I couldn't rightly tell. He was far away, and moving a sight slower than any of the kids I can think of. But not sneaking, moving with purpose. I wonder that I didn't think it odd earlier. My wits must not be with me this morning.
As the Agents go towards the bridge and the castle, you continue to plan out their course of action for protecting the town. Patrols and searching mostly, and laying some traps for the lich should he show his face again.
As you move across the massive white bridge, you can see the figure more clearly. You relax a little as you see the figure is little more than two feet tall: clearly not a child from town, and not the old man lich that you fought so hard in the castle. The figure has brown robes and a hood pulled up over its head. It holds in its old, but alive looking hands some sort of flat device that appears to have a number of flashing crystals on it. The figure moves about, taking steps in seemingly random directions and the crystals continue to flash, perhaps in some sort of pattern.
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Wednesday May 20th, 2020 8:34:29 PM
Something new? Trayvin wonders what the creature is, and what it is up to. I guess we should be ready for anything here, this seems a bit unusual, like everything else about this castle.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Wednesday May 20th, 2020 8:50:08 PM
Michael advances ahead a bit and sees the small creature. Hello, I'm Michael. who are you and what are you doing here? Are you looking for the lich as well?
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 d20+20=29 ; d20+20=32 ; d20+8=26 ; d20+17=19 ; Wednesday May 20th, 2020 10:07:17 PM
Anna tries to identify what the 2 foot tall aged creature could be.
She listens intently for what it has to tell Michael.
DM Warren (transition town) Thursday May 21st, 2020 6:09:39 PM
When you reach the edge of the bridge, the figure apparently hears you, stops, and turns. Now that you're nearer, Anna (and the others) can see that this is an elderly halfling male with bits of white hair peeking out from the edges of his hood.
He ponders a moment, looking at the group with a tilt of his head. He takes the strange device and places it into a large pouch hanging from his belt, then walks towards the group saying, “Greetings, Michael. I am Isumbras Featherbottom. And who are your friends that I have the pleasure of meeting on this fine day?”
Pru's spell sees the device Isumbras was holding light up a bit. If she continues to concentrate, she finds that it radiates fairly complicated seeming divination magics, but they are somehow different than anything she has seen before.
Yes, Lich. I'm something of an expert on the undead and their auras you see, and I couldn't stay away from this place any longer. Have you met him? Is he still here?
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 d20+12=16 ; d20+21=38 ; Thursday May 21st, 2020 8:50:57 PM Well met Mr. Featherbottom, The large fellow is Sigvar Ironhorn. The green lady is Anna Morphling, The fellow with the Bow is Pompous Demonbane, The handsome fellow with the tusks is Trayvin Smithson, the pretty human is Prudence Gundle, and the guy with the pointed ears is Nikolai Komonv, We are with the Mailed Fist. we were hired by the town to come to take care of a monster problem.
OH we met him alright. remarkably well preserved. looked just like a living man, Very powerful spell caster, and I think he was going senile. when we met him, he was studying scrolls, and he spoke like he had been sitting there studying for...well so long he couldn't remember the last time he'd been outside. it turns out he had been summoning the monsters and then forgetting he has summoned them. He didn't care about the town or the people, and we could not make him see the error of his ways. We had no choice but to engage him in combat. and to be fair, we would probably stil be fighting him if we hadn't burnt up all his scrolls. at that point he decieded to depart. .
Michael casually takes out his Book Akimbo, with its marks of the Three Houses of the sages Guild engraved in the leather. he pages through it looking for his notes,
as Michael speaks and flips, he casually pays close attention to the halfling. do his words incite interest or disgust? shock or anger? is he an undead friend or a scholar? Perception 38 sense motive 16,
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Thursday May 21st, 2020 10:48:38 PM
Anna smiles at the halfing and the device and says, "Charmed I'm sure."
She clears her throught and says to the halfling, "Isumbras, is it? If I'm not being to forward. The lich well he had this aura that caused those who got near to him to fall asleep. It gave us all sorts of trouble as my attempt at subterfuge failed because of it and one of our strongest warriors tried to go toe to toe with him only to fall asleep long enough for him to erect a barrier we were unable to remove. Is the information that Michael and I have shared consistent with the lich that you are looking for? If it isn't I wonder just how many liches could be running around this rather out of the way place. Might I ask is your interest in the undead and their auras academic or does something else motivate your expertise?"
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Friday May 22nd, 2020 12:50:23 AM
Sigvar nods as he is introduced and scans the man for evil intent
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Friday May 22nd, 2020 1:20:36 AM
Nikolai is surprised that the creature's name is not Yoda and is a halfling at that!
"Hi, Mr. Featherbottom. It is great to meet another expert in the Undead. I consider myself somewhat of an expert, however in this case we've seem to hit a stone wall. We are unsure whether the old man actually is in the process of turning into a Lich, or a Lich managed to posses him. At times he looks like an ordinary old man, but when he gets very angry, you see another form, that of an Undead phase in, then go away when his anger subsides. Never read anything like that in the Annals of Undead Studies at the Citadel, the Mailed Fist headquarters. Not only that, when he vanished, we went looking for his phylactery, but have come up with squatt! Maybe you've come across some research into this kind of thing."
Prudence Gundle Friday May 22nd, 2020 1:31:51 AM
“Also,” Pru says, “we’d really like to figure out where he went.”
DM Warren (transition town) Friday May 22nd, 2020 5:31:58 PM
Isumbras radiates no evil. Oh, just always been fascinated. I can see the appeal, having as much time as I could want to study, learn, innovate, instead of being shackled by a mortal body. Maybe it's lucky that I have no aptitude for the sort of magic it would take to become one myself. Considering how long he would have been in the area for his essence to become so infused in the landscape, if he was after conquest, it would have happened long ago. I think he would be lot like me, getting lost in the mysteries of the universe. If I didn't have to come up for meals and to use the privy, I can see how I'd lose track of everything else.
Based on my readings, I'd say that his phylactery went along with him. Without that concentrated source, the background levels are fading already. They may be here for a long while, and I credit the townsfolk to have not succumbed to its influence.
He seems interested in everything you can tell him about the old man or lich or whatever hybrid thing he might have been. hmmn, sleeping aura? fascinating, rather ingenious defense mechanism. Or maybe just to make sure people didn't annoy him without good cause? He does quite a lot of thinking to himself under his breath. I'd like to meet this fellow too. Maybe I can figure out a way to track him? In any case, I don't see myself going anywhere for a while.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Friday May 22nd, 2020 7:35:07 PM
Michael ponders the words of the scholar. I think, in the lands of rest we have the ability to do just that. only as spiritual beings, we are not constrained to the speed of our eyes. we can absorb volumes at a time, travel back to the point where history was made to see it with our own ghostly eyes, and also visit with those self same people who are there with us....at least that's my view of the whole deal. I'd have to ask Gargul next time I see him....ask him if I can get over the whole, "i'm in the presence of divinity and a cats got my tongue, thing. .
Michael shrugs. then brightens. Hey Nikolai, if were going to be down for a couple of days. How about I take the loot to the Catacombs and cash it in. maybe we can figure out some stuff to help us out next time we meet him. .
OOC: DM I've lost track of all the loot we acquired, I usually keep a list, but I did not this time...can you help a brother out?
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Friday May 22nd, 2020 10:43:51 PM It would be useful if we can find out where he went. We aren't entirely sure that his intentions will not be harmful to this town, or maybe others and we need to be sure.
Prudence Gundle Saturday May 23rd, 2020 10:44:14 PM
"If you really do plan to stay here for a time, can we ask you to contact us if the man--or lich, or whatever he is--returns? We don't want to leave the village undefended, you see, but I'm not sure how much longer we'll be able to stay."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Sunday May 24th, 2020 10:21:50 PM
Anna asks, "Isumbras If you can figure out a way to track him would you be on board with us accompanying you?"
Pompous (Yves_B) AC 27 CMD 30, HP 136/136/ Monday May 25th, 2020 12:22:50 PM
Seeing that the party appear relaxed talking to the person, Pompous rejoins the group but stays somewhat in the back.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Monday May 25th, 2020 10:27:16 PM
Anna waits for the halfling's response
Prudence Gundle Monday May 25th, 2020 11:52:45 PM
"If you can't cast the Message spell," Pru adds. "I have some scrolls of it I could give you." Inwardly she winces. Giving away Mailed Fist scrolls will involve a lot of paperwork, but it'll be worth it.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Tuesday May 26th, 2020 7:23:05 AM " We still have unfinished business with him."
DM Warren (transition town) Tuesday May 26th, 2020 12:27:45 PM Yes, of course. I've been able to track down entities by their energy before. I'm usually too late though, and some aspiring adventurer has already taken care of the problem. I'm getting faster though! He tries to do a sprightly kick, and barely catches himself before stumbling. Well, faster in the brainy parts at least.
I don't have the magic to do that, but I could make use of a scroll. I will let you know if he comes back here, or if I can track him down. It will depend on how far he's gone, and if he stays put for a while. Maybe I can find something he left here to help me focus in.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday May 26th, 2020 6:20:19 PM
"Well, we would really appreciate it," Pru says. She hands over one of the Message scrolls.
"If you're looking for something of his he left," Pru continues, "the best place to look is probably his study. It's on the top floor of the castle there. Um...I think we cleared out all the dangerous stuff, but we'd be happy to escort you up there if you like."
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Tuesday May 26th, 2020 8:35:17 PM
Out of hearing range of Isumbras, Trayvin reminds the Agents that they still have several of the items that they found in the old man's study, if needed.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Tuesday May 26th, 2020 10:24:36 PM
Michael listens. then comments. I've been around everything from zombies to liches, Frost Ghouls to Demons. they may be immortal they may have a lot of information. but one thing is true more than anything. they either want you dead or want something from you that will cost you dearly. . He thinks a moment more. The Raksasha we met was very powerful. he had enslaved a race of giants, the one we took alive, she wanted to die rather than face the wrath of her master. I've tried to reason with them, but it's never worked out.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Tuesday May 26th, 2020 10:37:59 PM
Anna says, "Isumbras, please do be careful in dealing with these creatures without having a party of adventurers on hand. When we came here the lich was creating mutant aberrant orcs. Whose to say doesn't have the power to create a mutant aberrant halfling? You need some means of defense if you are going to persist in studying these creatures. I don't suppose you know any spells of your own in addition to your tracking device?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Wednesday May 27th, 2020 1:41:22 AM
Nikolai doubts that the lich could have gone far. "The old man was secluded in this castle for as long as the villagers can remember. As a fact, the castle was here before the village. So how far would he go if he's been stuck here for a hundred years or so? Anyway, we have the permission from our Commander and the villagers to stay here a while longer and make sure he does not return so soon."
DM Warren (transition town) Wednesday May 27th, 2020 3:34:54 PM Oh, don't worry about me, youngins. I'm pretty good at getting myself out of tight spots. And I've had a good run.
I don't do much magic myself, but I have a few devices that replicate spells. And I know he's far enough away for the aura to have begun to dissipate already.
He tucks the scroll away for future use, and gives Pru a good studying so he can make sure to contact her accurately. I'll do some looking around - maybe after a good nosh, and after that town meeting I heard about earlier.
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Wednesday May 27th, 2020 5:40:32 PM
Looks like the Agents need to get ready for the meeting, not much to do until then.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Wednesday May 27th, 2020 9:47:22 PM
Anna polishes her mithral plate armor prior to the meeting.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday May 27th, 2020 11:28:08 PM
Pro thanks Isumbras and goes to prepare for the meeting.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Thursday May 28th, 2020 1:12:11 AM
Nikolai has his reservations about this guy. Too convenient to pop up just now. 'We'll see how long he sticks around' he muses.
"Ah, yes, the meeting. I guess we'd better head back to town and show up at our own meeting."
Pompous (Yves_B) AC 27 CMD 30, HP 136/136/ Thursday May 28th, 2020 1:27:20 PM
And off they go to meet at the meeting. Let’s go meet the meeters. Meetors? Meetorins? Le Meetors?
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Thursday May 28th, 2020 5:59:40 PM "Sure, this should be amusing."
DM Warren - Town Meeting Thursday May 28th, 2020 6:20:51 PM
Come early evening, everyone you've met in town and more gather at the Mug. The place is full nigh on to bursting, and a couple large agents aren't helping matters. They open up all the windows, as the heat is getting stifling.
There are murmurings of conversations as the group enters, but Earl quickly brings the townsfolk to order. Ah, our esteemed guests. For those of you that don't know them yet, these are the Agents of the Fist. They came to investigate the goings on at Whitebridge Castle.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Thursday May 28th, 2020 8:28:06 PM
Anna says, "Hello everyone. That is true we did come to investigate your castle and what we found was rather alarming. When we first got here we fought with some mutant aberrant orcs that had originated from there and upon further investigation we found the place to be teaming with traps and monsters. We successfully navigated the traps and put an end to most of the monsters, but unfortunately we weren't able to take care of the strange lich that had been creating those mutant aberrant orcs and was responsible for the evil presence in the castle. The good news is we drove him off. The bad news is we don't know where he is but we are currently working on trying to hunt him down and have no plans to leave until the job truly is done."
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Thursday May 28th, 2020 8:49:01 PM
Trayvin wonders how the townsfolk will react. Hopefully it will go well, the Agents are better at combat than negotiation.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Thursday May 28th, 2020 8:57:17 PM For those of you who do not know a lich is a very powerful human wizard who has found a way to extend his life via becoming an undead creature. He has all the knowledge and power from his old life and then gains the powers of the undead as well. What's more is that while they may have been good yet misguided people in their living life, they lose that when they become undead and instead become creatures of will with no ability to feel remorse, mercy or empathy for anything.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Friday May 29th, 2020 1:16:32 AM
Nikolai adds, "That is why, for so long a time your town was peaceful and quiet, but eventually his evil side took over and started bringing in those M.A.O's, Mutant Aberrant Orcs. Now, it could be that his good side still have some sway and he decides to leave for another quiet place to continue his studies, but then again, he could come back for revenge. So we need everyone to keep a sharp eye out for unusual stuff and let us know immediately what you find."
DM Warren - Town Meeting Friday May 29th, 2020 6:28:26 PM
Most of the townsfolk knew about the monsters already and nod along as Anna and Nikolai describe the aberrations and putting them down. There is a collective feeling of relief that the monsters shouldn't be troubling them any more.
A lich however is no laughing matter. One shaky voice cries out from the back You guys need to make sure he's gone for good!
This is followed by a few shouts in agreement, which evolves into a general clamour until Earl is able to shout everyone down into some semblance of quiet. If he's as powerful and unremorseful as you say, what's to say he doesn't just come back and blow up the town as soon as you're gone?! He points a finger at Nikolai. And how do we even contact you quickly enough to deal with him? By the time you get back, he'll be holed up in the tower again and have more traps and monsters than before!
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Friday May 29th, 2020 9:37:54 PM It is clear that our task is not yet complete.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Friday May 29th, 2020 10:14:02 PM
Anna says, "As I've explained...we have no intentions of leaving the area until we've nipped the root cause in the bud and that root cause is the lich. We have some promising leads we are working on and in the meantime we aren't going anywhere."
Prudence Gundle Saturday May 30th, 2020 1:23:14 AM
"Our commanding officer has ordered us to stay here and patrol," Pru adds. "We won't be leaving anytime soon. But this is why we've been asking everyone what they know about the castle, and the man who lived there. So we'll ask again. Think hard. The slightest thing might be a clue. Has anyone seen anything, heard anything, read anything that might hint as to where he's gone?"
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Sunday May 31st, 2020 12:24:52 AM
Sigvar shakes his head. A word of recall spell would have silenced the outcry of too long of a response time, but was never discussed. Aside from that the Lich's fight is with the Agents, not the town. Even if he lost his last marble he would likely come for the Agents, not the quiet citizens of a town he didn't care existed. The cry has settled down now, so Sigvar simply stands, listening to the grumbles of the crowd.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Sunday May 31st, 2020 10:27:15 PM That lich lived her for as long as you all can remember. when he started losing his mind the started to become a problem. he didn't even seem particularly interested in us and after we destroyed his book collection then he took off. there are two types of liches. those that wish for more power and prestige. and the ones who just want to study more. he seems like that type
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Monday June 1st, 2020 12:51:29 AM "Rest assured that we will stay here as long as there is any doubt the lich is gone for good. We plan to make the castle our residence. This will alleviate any burden upon you for our stay, prevent any wandering creatures to claim it as their own, and provide a focus for the lich, if he does return. In the case he does return, he will ignore your village and try to boot us out of his castle.
In the meantime, if you see anything unusual, please report it too us. We are here to help, lich or no lich."
Pompous (Yves_B) AC 27 CMD 30, HP 136/136/ Monday June 1st, 2020 10:58:46 AM
Pompous breaths heavily. The thought of going against the lich again is not appealing to him. He still hasn’t shaken off his recent near death experience and his confidence isn’t what it used to be. Still, he’s part of a group and he will do as he’s told.
DM Warren - Town Meeting Monday June 1st, 2020 3:24:04 PM
At this point, Isumbras jumps in to offer his expert opinion. Good townsfolk - this man, lich may he be, lived here just as a citizen of the town, leaving everything alone, and far longer than any of you can say. I believe good Sir Michael is correct and that he has no concerns for taking power, but rather pursued knowledge for its own sake. It's a shame that he took to evil means to continue that pursuit, but there's no helping that now.
In my professional opinion, he is well and truly gone, as this device can tell you. These readings show that even now, in his absence, his lingering aura is fading. And should he return, I will be the first to know. The Agents have given me the means to contact them and assured me that they can return at a moment's notice should the threat return. But they have too much important work to do to be tied down here when there is no real continued threat. Even the monsters were exploiting his presence, rather than being used by him to expand his own power.
I suggest that you update your commander and let her know that you are free to continue your important work as I stay to interview the townsfolk and continue the search.
There are a couple of holdouts among the townsfolk, but most of them seem ready to put this ordeal behind them and get back to their lives. A few of the younger couples have already grown bored with this meeting, and the keen eyed among you noticed them slip out to do what young couples may on a warm evening.
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Monday June 1st, 2020 10:13:55 PM If the threat is gone, then our mission is complete. If the lich or any other evil returns, the town only needs to contact the Citadel for aid, and aid will come. All that remains is determine the fate of the castle.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 12:07:18 AM
Anna says, "It wouldn't due to have townsfolk wondering around the castle unescorted. We need to secure the castle in some way to prevent people from wondering in and getting hurt from the remainder of the traps and probably close that hole in the roof of the study to prevent some sort of animals or new monsters from wondering in."
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 12:19:19 AM Eh? leave it alone. these folk lived their entire lives here without ever going over to the castle. what makes you think they are going to start going over there now?
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 1:08:46 AM "We, the Agents of the Fist, that is, will stay here another week to assure you that the lich will not return." Nikolai tells the town. Coming from the Thumb, that is also an order to the Fist.
To Anna he turns and grins, "That will give us a chance to make the necessary repairs and put some of the young men here in charge of garrisoning the keep. It will keep them busy and give them some feel of importance at the same time keeping wandering monsters out. We can send a sergeant from the Citadel to give them some training. I'll propose that to the Commander."
If the town seems in agreement with their week extension, them Nikolai presumes the meeting over.
With the Fist aside, he comments, "All that seems left is the matter of payment. We have not found out who it was that made the contract and no one here has volunteered any such information. If the payment puts a burden on the town, we could claim the keep as payment and pay a stipend for those young ones who want to garrison it. I guess we will start looking for our payment tomorrow."
Prudence Gundle Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 1:31:35 AM
Pru smiles. "I think that's about settled. We'll patrol for a week, just to be sure, and pledge to return immediately if the lich comes back.
"We'd like to thank you for your hospitality last night, but we don't want to continue to impose on the town. If you don't mind, we'll make our own arrangements for tonight."
If the townsfolk seem all right with it, Pru will cast another Magnificent Mansion when the group is ready to retire for the night.
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 10:10:30 AM
Sigvar is glad that Nikolai sorted this out. The job was done. Any return of the lich would be sorted in short order and the Agents would move on to their next assignment
DM Warren - Town Meeting Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 3:23:10 PM
Over the next week, the Agents get organized in the town. They assure the town that the threat is gone, and promise to patrol over the next week to make sure it's true.
They begin by starting up repairs to the keep/castle/fortification area, patching holes, removing traps, and making it safe. Some local boys help out with their time, materials, and labor. An added benefit is that this could be a fallback shelter in case of some other emergency that might come to threaten the town. It's always good to be prepared.
The town doesn't have any extra cattle to help the Agents start a herd, but they can give some starter sheep and goats, and Gamma Herry's young ward agrees to help tend the herd for now. Once the keep is cleaned up, a couple of the young men agree to stay to keep the place free of cobwebs, rodents, and any curious children that might get themselves in trouble now that there's been some activity here.
Pru keeps the group housed and fed with her magical mansion, so as to prevent any additional hardships on the town. They've all been willing to pitch in, but soldiers tend to eat a lot, which would be hard for any small town.
Isumbras continues to bustle around the keep, keeping barely out from underfoot. The background readings are going down all the time, reinforcing the idea that the old man is gone for good. After a week of no sightings, the Agents are ready to head back to home base to update the Knight Commander and receive new orders.
Payment - Whitebridge keep and the surrounding lands, seed stock of sheep and goats Experience - 34,500 Hero point to all
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 7:45:34 PM
After a few final words of advice and encouragement to those locals who may one day follow in the Agents' footsteps, Trayvin gathers his things and makes ready to depart for the Citadel.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 9:28:38 PM
Anna makes sure to spend time with Little Michael if he was one of the volunteers helping shape a training regiment so he can be ready to join the Fist formally at some point in time should he so desire.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 10:28:51 PM
After a week of patrolling Michael knows about everything, there is to know about this town. all the people, whos' sleeping with who, he even knows how many cats and dogs are in the town. (43 cats, 104 dogs. ). he is torn. these are good solid folk. not really the sort for adventure, but certainly a good place to raise kids. will he miss it? maybe not, but he will think of it often.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 12:56:04 AM
Nikolai is pleased on how things turned out. It was tough but they toughed it out. With the help of Sigvar, Pompous, and Tryvin, they pick out the best young men to 'man the fort', so to speak, and teach them some basic military drills and how best to use their improvised weapons to defend themselves. It's not much to go on, but now the town has what could be called a town militia.
He asks Michael to design a simple town logo that could be stitched onto their clothing. He hopes all this will boost the town moral and give them more of a civil purpose.
Also, before they leave, he makes sure the town has the proper civil leadership. When they arrived, there did not seem to be anyone in charge. Now the town has the blueprint to elect Elders and town Mayor. They may not follow it, but they have it nonetheless.
"I can't wait until our next vacation, we can come here to rest and maybe fish in that river. Maybe even build a barn for the animals...."
When all is set and the town has the Message scroll, and someone that can use it, Nikolai asks, "Do we head back on foot or take the easy way back?"
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 8:02:17 AM
Sigvar is interested in helping Michael look over the loot they won while taking the keep. He is keen for a few upgrades.
Pompous (Yves_B) AC 27 CMD 30, HP 136/136/ Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 12:35:27 PM
Pompous does his share of the work and reflects on recent events. He updates his journals and talks with some of the locals to get a better sense of the history of the community.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 3:51:53 PM
Pru makes sure to say goodbye to all the townsfolk she has met, and to thank them for everything they've done.
When her companions are ready to depart, she says. "I can teleport everybody. It'll take me a couple of goes, but that shouldn't be a problem."
DM Warren - Town Meeting Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 4:18:38 PM
It's a bright morning as the Agents are wrapping up their improvements to the town: it's infrastructure, management, and morale. A couple young men (and notable also some young women) have volunteered to continue to run the training exercises that they've been taught every day, so that they can be ready in case of a future emergency. No one in town can use the scroll, but thankfully Isumbras is sticking around to manage that.
It would almost be the perfect morning for goodbyes, except for a panicked message that knocks on Pru's brain. The resident cleric of the Citadel imparts these words to her.
Commander Palance left her office. Walked outside, no weapons. Green Dragon swooped in and snatched her up. She did not seem to resist. Return immediately!
Prudence Gundle Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 8:00:52 PM On our way Pru sends back.
"Guys, we need to go now. Commander Palance was just carried off by a green dragon."
Not waiting for a discussion, she grabs Michael, Sigvar, and Pompous, and teleports to the Citadel.
Assuming nothing interrupts her, she returns for Nikolai, Anna, and Trayvin.
Michael Wittman AC:21, T:18, FF:21 (ucdodge) HP 64/75 Me+19(14)( 9)F+10, R+18,W+10, CMB+16, CMD+28 Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 9:00:13 PM
with Pru's look of surprise, I look that Michael knows well, the machine takes over and time seems to slow down. not like a haste spell but in his mind, things stand out, her words imprint themselves on his mind like a brand. When she grabs him and the world flashes, during the breatless instant between here and there Michael wonders again if he will be reborn as another person, just like he always does.
the moment fades and he finds he is still himself. He locks eyes with the first person he sees and asks "Is the commander missing? without waiting for a reply. he walks with authority towards the Provost Marshal's office.
once there he salutes and announces Sgt Michael Wittman reporting as ordered via Teleport. Tech Sgt Prudence Gundle is bringing the rest of the Agents back as I speak. Where do you need us and what can we do to help?
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 9:12:48 PM Green Dragon, guess it was only a matter of time till he showed his ugly face again. Wonder why he hates the Fist so much?
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 10:52:18 PM
Anna says, "It's time for a rematch and this time we will see how the green dragon fairs against a silver one."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Thursday June 4th, 2020 12:54:01 AM
Nikolai is more than puzzled, he is dumfounded. Good thing Pru takes him last and he has a few moments to let things set in. "Walked outside unarmed" very unusual. "Didn't seem to resist" highly unusual to not even let out some kind of yelp!
So, how did the green dragon know exactly when to swoop down? How did the sentries not notice the green dragon's approach? Has discipline gotten that lax?
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Thursday June 4th, 2020 9:54:42 AM " It doesn't matter Trayvin, he is not getting away this time. No Half measures on this one." Sigvar let's Michael go his way, while the paladin goes his own. He heads for the Quartermaster's office and tries to be polite as he ticks off his needs. " Good morning Q, I need a few supplies to retrieve the commander please. I need 6 scrolls of resist energy, a potion of Fly, 3 potions of invisibility and a bead of Force if you have one." He doesn't have a clear plan yet and he probably doesn't need all of those items but he wants to give the Agents a fighting chance this time against Slartanus, who else could it be?
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Thursday June 4th, 2020 10:04:11 AM
OOC Do we have the loot list from the taking of the castle? I recall several items in there that might be useful, but don't quite remember them all.
Pompous (Yves_B) AC 27 CMD 30, HP 136/136/ Thursday June 4th, 2020 11:04:19 AM
Pompous takes position near Prudence and notches and arrow before being teleported. Looks like that dragon bane arrow may yet be of use.
“ Ready!”
DM Warren - Town Meeting Thursday June 4th, 2020 4:09:49 PM
Pru wastes no time, and in the span of less than a minute, she's expended great sorcerous energies to bring the entire crew back to the Citadel.
Michael takes a brief moment to orient himself. They've arrived in their barracks room, so no one is immediately around to question. He heads off towards the highest authority he can think of that's still here. We don't know what happened. One minute, Commander Palance just up and leaves her office and heads out to the middle of the field. The next, a giant green dragon just comes in and takes her away. It's almost like she was waiting for him.
Many of them quickly assume that it can only be Slartanus, back to exact his revenge on the Fist, for reasons unknown. Many of them are excited to finally be taking him down. Sigvar especially takes no chances and goes to prepare for whatever could be facing them.
Q doesn't have all the items on hand, but she's ready to rush you off to the Catacombs to place your orders. She's an island of calm amidst an otherwise hectic Citadel.
I'll look back and figure out the last loot list
Trayvin AC 29/14 touch Hp 161/161(BrianZ) Thursday June 4th, 2020 8:50:18 PM Could she have been influenced by magic to go and surrender herself? The actions seem unusual.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 113/113 -- 29/14/26 CMD : 27 Thursday June 4th, 2020 8:51:57 PM
Anna asks, "Do you think I could catch him if I changed into a Huge Silver Dragon and immediately went after him? I can do that now. Granted he's still a giant but I'm willing to have that battle to save the commander. Maybe if I can get close enough to her I could alway pull the disguise myself as the commander bit and see if he can tell the difference."
Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 35 (T 13, FF 33) CMD 33 HP 174/174 Character Sheet Thursday June 4th, 2020 10:41:00 PM
Sigvar assures Q they will all be back shortly to head to the catacombs. Heheads up top again and finds Michael. When he hears the tale he frowns, scanning the room with detect evil. If he is still mind linked with Prudence and Nikolai he will send " This sounds fishy, like standing on the dock, shank deep in cod fishy. I think our dragon has a new spellcasting ally." "I think goading us into individual action IS the plan. Someone please start scanning for magic. I would bet she was charmed and sent out there. My statement still stands though, no half measures this time." He asks the Provost Marshall for a quill and ledger and poses this question to the Agents...."Who, right now, can ward against the elements and how many times? I can, 4 times at decent resistance (30 points)" He writes it hoping to keep it from any who shouldn't be seeing it if they were say, ivisible and among them right now.
OOC thanks for looking up the loot Warren, I think some of those rings are about to be key.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 24 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 106/106 CMD 34/36(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) d20+21=41 ; d20+3=10 ; Friday June 5th, 2020 1:07:33 AM "I agree that this is no time to go off singly. I believe the Commander is OK for now. Let's get ourselves prepared and then start the hunt."
Nikolai gets Michael and anyone else who wants to, to thoroughly search their commander's office. What they are looking for is some document or correspondence that could hold some powerful charm spell. Or perhaps some item sent as a present, maybe even falsely under the Agent's name.
"We also need to question everyone who's had contact with the Commander in the last week or so and see if there was any change back then that might have gone unnoticed but now makes sense."
So: thorough search of the office and thorough questioning about the Commander's behavior over the past week.
Prudence Gundle Friday June 5th, 2020 2:39:31 PM
"I can only ward against fire," Pru tells Sigvar. "And that's no good, because we know this dragon breathes acid."
When Nikolai starts asking around, Pru says, "Find out whether she had anything delivered to her recently. I suspect this was a Suggestion spell, but I don't know how the dragon got it to her."
At Sigvar's request, she casts Detect Magic and starts scanning the Commander's office for lingering auras.
DM Warren - Vanished into the Knight Friday June 5th, 2020 4:08:58 PM knowledge arcana 27: Highlight to display spoiler: {Sufficiently powerful green dragons have the ability to charm, or even dominate, people. They can also conceal themselves in any natural terrain, regardless of the presence of cover. }
Trayvin and Pru try to figure out how this could have happened. Anna proposes winging off after him immediately, but Sigvar and Nikolai counsel caution against letting them be drawn out individually.
They sift through the loot from the Lich's tower, finding many things that could be useful for the upcoming fight. Pompous has a few things he wants to add.
Anarchic longsword x5 Historical tapestry, value: 10,000 gold Gold-woven tapestry x2, 5,000 ea Well of many worlds Ring of spell storing Ring of Wizardry II Ring of freedom of movement Rod of Metamagic, Quicken Rod of Metamagic, Silent, greater Staff of Healing
Oddly enough, there are no strange traces of magic in the Knight Commander's office. Everything is in place (meaning scattered with ordered chaos all over). No signs of any change in her regular patterns.
Luckily for Nikolai, everyone is on his side (no diplomacy needed here). Unfortunately though, no one can think of any other instances of strange behaviors from Palance. He does get a little tidbit though. The dragon was spied flying at full speed to the south/southeast. Additionally, there has been no sign of ransom notes, demands, or other communications from the dragon (though they got back so quickly, there may just not have been time.)
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