Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Monday February 22nd, 2021 5:50:24 PM Agreed, let's schedule the interviews. Maybe we'll even need more than one of them depending on how many duties there will be to attend to when we are not here. No need to dump all of the work on just one person.
" I was thinking the same thing Trayvin. These three have different skill sets that could all be useful. "
ooc>Sorry folk, super busy at work.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 12:48:11 AM
Nikolai looks over the folders when he gets the chance.
"Before we start the interviews, let's find out a little about them first? Kind of doing a little homework on who they are that's not on paper? I will go to the library and see what kind of books they've studied. Someone else can check with Q, as she has a way of knowing all the scuttlebutt about everyone. There's no hurry in this that I know of, is there?"
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 1:43:46 AM
Anna says, "I don't know if it would be unethical or not but with my abilities I can appear as any humanoid indefinitely now if I chose the right SLA for my Queen's shape ability. Would it be wrong of me to use this ability to try to surrepticiously gather intel on them by either turning into someone they know and trying to get more information that way or by turning into Claire or Cedric themselves and see how others react to them? I can't become a Centaur though. Alternatively I could take beast shape instead and we could see how they treat a lost or injured animal. I'm just trying to come up with ideas for how my unique gifts could help us find the right candidate."
Michael Wittman AC:32, T:21, FF:25(ucdodge) HP 99/141 F+14, R+23,W+15, CMB+22, CMD+31 Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 2:35:25 AM Well I'll tell you one thing. That cleric of Ffoy can get bent as far as I'm concerned. Unless she's here to help us reverse the travesty of a danegeld we are paying to Aisildur, she can go pound sand. .
Knight Commander Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 42 (T 16, FF 38) CMD 41 HP 216 / 216 Character Sheet Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 7:30:15 AM
Sigvar was about to say something when Michael adds his 2 copper, loudly and blasphemously. The Taur takes a deep breath and speaks, quietly. " You need to stop that Michael. You are looked to as a leader now. It is not becoming to have you maligning a god or damning an agreement that saved the lives of many of the Fist that now serve under you, and alongside you. I have heard it from you before and I have held my tongue. Please let this be the end of it. You see that agreement as having ruined the Fist. I and many other soldiers caught on the wrong side of that fight saw it, nay still see it as a lifeline that allowed the Fist to continue being. Do you not think that if one of the Wold's gods wanted that fight to be over and the Fist destroyed it would have happened? Instead there was a bargain that heavily taxed the Fist, but allowed it to continue, to rebuild, and to be delivered into our hands to be certain that a civil war like that NEVER happens again." "You don't have to like it. If you think it is unfair you could attempt to renegotiate the terms as one of the Knight Commanders. But until that comes to pass, it is the agreement that allows the Fist to still exist and it will be honored." Sigvar stops and takes another deep breath. " I think Nikolai is correct. We should interview them all and we should do our homework before we perform the interviews. We should know the answers to at least some of the questions we will ask them. I for one do want this to get done soon, mostly because I have little head for this type of thing. Facing down a dragon is one thing, that is easy. But paperwork and making a decision that will ruin the Fist terrifies me."
Tinker (SteveK) -- HP 159/159 -- 33/22/25 CMD: 37 Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 4:10:26 PM
Tinker looks troubled and rubs the back of one of the chairs. A raised eyebrow at Michael acknowledges his friends thoughts and Sigvars words at the same time. “Ffloy priest as Chief of Staff may be a good way to heal a rift. We should meet them all.”
Tinker agrees the Knights should use all information means at their disposal, but first... he picks up a folder and reads. Then another. And the third. ’Lets see what Palance says about them first, eh?’
DM Warren - Back to Business Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 4:15:39 PM
Everyone seems to agree that they should hold some sort of interviews with these candidates, after doing a few proper background checks of course. It only remains to see what questions they would like to ask. They certainly have the option of hiring multiple. They're a council of commanders, why not have a surfeit of stewards?
Anna's question goes unanswered for a moment. Thinking about it, it isn't exactly a lawful act to assume someone's identity, especially when not in a wartime scenario. Sigvar expresses strong opinions on Gods of the Wold, reminding Michael that Ffloy had a hand in saving the Fist, even if at a cost.
How are you going about asking for information on the applicants? Mowbray is already a Fist member, but the others may be slightly harder.
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 6:17:44 PM These are important positions, I'm sure former Commander Palance has some useful information on them?
And if we feel it is needed, I might be able to try a few spells that could help.
Trayvin puts a hand on Michael's shoulder for support. Sigvar is correct, but I think we can all agree to hope that one day the Fist will emerge from the shadow of that agreement and move forward as an improved force for good in the Wold.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 10:24:00 PM
"Commander Palance wouldn't have given us these options if she didn't think they were good choices," Pru says. "What do you think we could find out that she could not? I just think we need to talk to them."
Michael Wittman AC:32, T:21, FF:25(ucdodge) HP 99/141 F+14, R+23,W+15, CMB+22, CMD+31 Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 11:02:10 PM
Michael's face reddens with long held back rage, and unimaginable hurt. it flashes before him....all of it..but with a loud swallow he chokes it back down behind a mask of dead calm.
I had to kill my brothers Sigvar, men I'd bled with, I killed them, we all did. it was the hardest thing I've ever done and I feel dirty, unclean, and damned by it. and then they spread the hurt around even more by punishing the ones that were trying to stop it. In no life, in no universe is that "fair" and to Aisildurians to boot. they won't get any benefit from the money we send them..it will all go to enrich that demon they worship. If Ffoy wants to damn me for the mistake he made then so be it. I'll look him in the eye while he does it. he he'll know that though he can damn me and destroy me, he's still in the wrong.. his eyes go back further...he's not in the room anymore, he's back there.
We won that fight. the Aisildurians were still behind the wall. I was getting the NCO's under control..I was going to have them retire in good order back to the base camp. it was fortified. the city folk couldn't have taken it. we could have gotten the remainder of the fist back to base, then we could have sorted this thing out. The fist would have been glad to pay death benefits to the courier that Neutronis killed, shoot we would have paid death benefits to all the soldiers killed, taken care of their families even. but no. we had to make decisions when everybody's blood was still hot. and now we are saddled with a debt that we cannot pay off. .
he lets out a deep breath and comes back to the present. he thinks a bit. You know what Sigvar you are right. I should not judge a person by the beliefs they keep. I won't hold them against her. if she's the best candidate, she'll get my vote. I can be the bigger person in this case. . looking up at the big minotaur he cannot help but chuckle a bit at his double entrandrey.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Wednesday February 24th, 2021 1:00:58 AM
Anna says, "We all had to fight people we once were aligned with in that war. It was hell and yes in the aftermath those that remained were force to pay dearly for Neutronis's folley. I don't know much about contracts but I do know about attonement and forgiveness at least thanks in part to Lord Eberyon my Lady's consort who I am technically an emissary of. Palance said we were empowered to forge alliances, I have to imagine we are also empowered to negotiate or renogotiate contracts that were entered into by our predecesors. The good we have done since the Civl War, fending off the Sargrass invasion with other heroes of the Wold, helping that town with the weird castle, putting an end to Slartanus's cult has to stand for something. Perhaps we bring these things up with Asilduran representatives and Cleric's of Ffloy and see if more amicable terms could be arranged. As you said Michael, we were forced to accept a bad deal when everyone's tempers were hot. Things have cooled since then and we've proven I think that the Fist is still a force for good, that we are a force for good and under our leadership we intend to continue that way."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Wednesday February 24th, 2021 1:04:10 AM
Nikolai looks a Anna, askance, "We don't need to use subterfuge to do our background checks. Last thing we want is for our men and women that look up to us find they can't trust if who they are looking at is really them. No, we'll ask their drill teachers in here and ask them what they think. We will go over their detail records, their grades, and simply watch how they act around everyone else. And this does not have to be done today or tomorrow.
I want to go over the Mailed Fist records, the financial records, any outstanding contracts, and the roster. I want it all cleaned up. I also want to know if Aisildur ever payed us for the work Neutronus did do, that which got the whole civil war started in the first place. In every contract, there's some way to find a catch, if you are good enough of a lawyer to find it. I want that repayment contract to Aisildur studied until the parchment wears out to see if there is a way to shorten it. There may be the option to declare reorganizational bankruptcy and declare wha's left of that repayment null in void.
We'll have to study all angles and that will take some time. So point rushing into any appointments. Let our people go about their normal business for a few weeks while we figure out what shape we are in in the first place, that way we know what to tell our new administrators."
He let's that sink in for a few moments.
Tinker (SteveK) -- HP 159/159 -- 33/22/25 CMD: 37 Wednesday February 24th, 2021 7:11:45 AM
Tinker is confused. He remembers Neutronis’ hubris, the fight before the walls (and within the town!) of Ailsidur, and he keeps the secret that only Michael, Anna, and Daemar know: the person who really killed Unruk the Undying. But he doesn’t remember.... Tinker clears his throat.
“Been gone awhile. What contract with Ffloy? What conditions?”
.....
For the CoS (Chief[s] of Staff), Tinker suggests to send each candidates invitations for interviews at the Citadel for 2-week’s time. That gives two of three the time to get there, and time for the KCs to use magical and non-magical means of information gathering. “Scrying and records are good, but we also need to know if the Fist know of any closet skeletons or enmities. The best qualified who can’t work in the Fist culture is not qualified,”
He thinks at Michael. ’Care to go to the tavern with me and let slip some names on the short list?’
Pompous (Yves_B) AC 26/ SR 20 CMD 30, HP 170/170/ Wednesday February 24th, 2021 8:56:42 AM
“ If we wanted to out source this, I’m sure I can convince my father to send us someone from his human resource department to do the interviews and back ground checks. This all seems to be tasks below our pay grade now. “
DM Warren - Back to Business Wednesday February 24th, 2021 6:28:30 PM
The Agents discuss how to proceed with choosing their person, but haven't come to any agreements yet.
Pompous suggests outsourcing. However, they're choosing the person that they would be outsourcing to in the future, so they may want more of a personal stake in the decision. As for checking records, only one is currently a member of the Fist, but his records are easy to come by.
The tavern is maybe as good a place as any to hear any scuttlebutt. Divinations are a tried and true method as well.
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Wednesday February 24th, 2021 6:29:35 PM
Trayvin adds to the discussion about the end of the war. I like to think that Ffloy was trying to teach the Fist a bit of humility. Was it really about the money, or was it about a lesson learned?
Trayvin will contemplate on some spells that may be of use for the investigation and interviews to follow. I like Tinker's idea on the schedule. Should give everyone enough time to do anything needed before we meet with them.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday February 24th, 2021 8:32:46 PM
Pru frowns a little at Pompous. "Why only humans, though?" she asks. "One of the applicants is a centaur, right?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Thursday February 25th, 2021 12:20:32 AM
Nikolai stifles a smirk at Pompous' comment. "Pay grade? What is our paygrade?
"It is easy enough to outsource our information gathering, but not the interviews. Only we here in the Fist can truly ascertain whether they fit in the Mailed Fist organization. I'll ask my parents to gather a few of their old time Mailed Fist comrades and start looking into Claire Novik and Xiron. They will all know how important this is and know how to be subtle and discreet. My mom's friends can look into Claire and my dad may even know a centaur or two. My family won't leave for another day or two and I will get with them when we are done here and ask. I'll make copies of these for each one of us, just make sure you don't leave any around."
He looks for ink, quill, and parchments, then sits down and starts making copies. It will be tedious and his hand will probably cramp up but he does not want to outsource this sensitive information at this point.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Thursday February 25th, 2021 1:44:11 AM
Anna says, "Well if Ffloy was trying to teach us humility can we let him know he succeeded and can we get out from under the huge financial burden that as it stands will be a huge obstacle to any improvement we want to make to the standing of the Fist? How much out of what we take in from all our contracts go to Aisildur and how much do we need to just keep the citadel running?"
Knight Commander Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 42 (T 16, FF 38) CMD 41 HP 216 / 216 Character Sheet Thursday February 25th, 2021 5:59:36 AM
Sigvar frowns. Michael may have had to kill comrades, but Sigvar had tried to save his. He had held the line and taken fire as his forces retreated under the Agent's assumed leadership. This had seen him caught by the Alsidurians and held on war crimes. Thankfully the judges had used truth spells during the trials and he had been returned to the Fist since he was against Neutronis's entire plan and had tried only to save his fistmates and friends. But he had seen many Fist soldiers that had embraced the insanity, and he saw some of them executed. He wanted the sanctions eased or lifted too, why wouldn't he? Anyway, they were looking into these candidates and trying to get a feel for them. Some of them were powerful spellcasters. Couldn't the Fist use sending spells to contaact the 2 nonsoldiers and then telport them here. Allow them to interact with the Fist and observe them as they looked over the position and decided. Sigvar had said enough already he simply stood and listened as the others discused the positions.
Tinker (SteveK) -- HP 159/159 -- 33/22/25 CMD: 37 Thursday February 25th, 2021 11:32:05 AM
Tinker shrugs. He’ll find out eventually, he usually does. Like he didn’t know Sigvar was at the battle too, only in the other side, which brings its own set of problems... and potential solutions.
With Nikki talking plans and the spellcasters thinking of how they can work this problem, Tinker already knows what he is going to do. A raised eyebrow to Michael and a glance to Sigvar silently inviting both, the dwarf leaves the room and goes to the Citadel’s tavern.
Once there, he sits and pretends to drink more than he actually is. He talks to those who talk to him and joins in the general occasional choruses. He feels he has to set up that this is normal for Tinker and let the room get used to one of the Knight Commanders before he tries any overt information gathering.
“Yellow bird, with a yellow bill...”
Pompous (Yves_B) AC 26/ SR 20 CMD 30, HP 170/170/ Thursday February 25th, 2021 1:56:34 PM
Pompous bows to Prudence “ You are of course correct Prudence. I choice of words did not reflect the diversity of the applicants or our group. My father’s organization has had the unfortunate and short sighted policy to only employ humans. A position I don’t support at all. “
While the rest of the party discusses how best to make the choice of who will be the administrator, Pompous offers to do an inspection run of the guard posts.
DM Warren - Back to Business Thursday February 25th, 2021 7:10:25 PM
Discussions continue, leaning a bit toward the differing philosophies of command and hiring practices.
Pompous decides to continue his day doing an inspection of the posts around the Citadel, and Sigvar likely sees to the recruits doing their training. Despite the hour, the Last Assignment has plenty of folks ready to drink. The joys of coming off of night shift mean there are plenty of morning drinkers.
Tinker doesn't find that anyone has reservations about talking to him. Probably because he's not been familiar enough around here for people to really remember him yet. There are several newbies since he's been gone, and those are the ones likely to pull the less wanted shifts. In fact, you do see Lieutenant de Mowbray himself, though he's drinking coffee and having some lovely smelling eggs, bacon, and toast.
Perusal through records shows that De Mowbray has volunteered for the less desired assignment, and carries out his duties with great discipline and competence.
Nikolai finds assistance in sending a message to his family to try to gather information on the other applicants. Any specific questions? and/or divinations from Trayvin?
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Thursday February 25th, 2021 8:33:54 PM
Trayvin inquires about the applicants religious perspectives, and favored deities(if any).
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 d20+41=56 ; d20+41=43 ; Thursday February 25th, 2021 9:09:43 PM
Anna says to Pompous, "Well humanoids of the non-monstrous variety of size medium or small certainly make things easier for me. Taurs are one group of creatures that I simply cannot become. Also I swung by the gaurd posts overnight as I don't sleep anymore since becoming a plantkin but they are likely staffed by different folks in the day time so it couldn't hurt to keep them on their toes."
Anna reaches into her bag of tricks and pulls out 2 scrolls of augury. She casts both. The first she asks "Would hiring Claire Novik be a good idea?"
The second she asks, "Would hiring Xiron be a good idea?"
UMD: 56 = pass UMD: 41 = pass
(OOC: DM rolls a secret 73% roll that the casting has meaningful result. On success one of four results are obtained: weal for good result; woe for bad result; weal and woe (for good and bad results); nothing (for results that are not particularly good or bad)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Friday February 26th, 2021 1:43:48 AM
Once his family is on their way back home, Nikolai takes to the books. The Accounting books, and starts learning all he can about the finances of the Mailed Fist. He makes a stack of open contracts, contracts finished in the past year, and new potential contracts. He takes the finished contracts first to determine the income from that, then the open ones for the expected income, and the new potential ones for possible future income.
Naturally, this takes several days. His next goal is to tackle the Expenses books.
Michael Wittman AC:32, T:21, FF:25(ucdodge) HP 99/141 F+14, R+23,W+15, CMB+22, CMD+31 Friday February 26th, 2021 3:50:46 AM
Michael feels a bit of kinship towards De Mowbray, but he realizes that as the bias it is.
You know, if there are 7 of us. then that means that having one "aid" will work that aid to death. if they are already on the fist payroll why not bring all three in and assign them separate duites to work on. one could work procurement, another organize logistics and the third keep books. we would obviously have more duties for them but it would be better shared among three than just one.
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 d20+10=29 ; Friday February 26th, 2021 3:55:04 AM
Tinker nods at Michael’s insight: it’s nice to not need to be in the same room to coordinate with the KCs. He thinks to the team: “ bring ‘em all... provided they are satisfactory. But.. only one Chief of Staff. We also need a Staff. Training Officer, Supply Officer, and a Bursar for the accounts.”
(Meanwhile, at the Last Assignment) Tinker waves Lieutenant De Mowbray over to his own table. “Bring your plate. Sit with me. Been gone while, making a point to meet the officers. Trust is built on knowing each other, eh?”
Tinker stays off topics of decisions or changes. He listens more than he speaks, learning about not the Fist as a group, but the people who make up the team. He willingly answers questions about himself, but won’t discuss scuttlebutt or what the Knights Commander are planning. “Won’t talk about it. Wouldn’t be right. “
Know Local. 29
Knight Commander Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 42 (T 16, FF 38) CMD 41 HP 216 / 216 Character Sheet d20+10=14 ; Friday February 26th, 2021 11:53:18 AM
Sigvar does go and look in on the troops training. It has been awhile so when their instructor takes them out for a run he joins in. Being exceptionally fit thanks to his Taur heritage and the belt he wears he isn't really winded at all as he runs with the team. He is therefore ale to ask some questions about the one person they are considering that is in the Fist currently. Diplomacy, gather info 14
Pompous (Yves_B) AC 26/ SR 20 CMD 30, HP 170/170/ Friday February 26th, 2021 4:39:03 PM
Pompous talks to the captain of guard and asks about Fist patrols. How many are out at a time and how far do they go out.
Michael Wittman AC:32, T:21, FF:25(ucdodge) HP 99/141 F+14, R+23,W+15, CMB+22, CMD+31 Friday February 26th, 2021 7:34:05 PM
While Tinker gets to know the troops, and Sigvar reacquaints himself with the Joys of PT. Michael takes to the offices and gets a handle on the bane of a troop's existence. Paperwork and bookkeeping. An army may travel on its stomach, but beans and sling bullets have to be requisitioned and paid for. The paperwork for that is important as well as What, when, where, why and how the money gets into and out of the coffers. He gets a strong pot of coffee and an egg salad sandwich for when he gets peckish or sleepy. He's not just going through the books. He's talking to the secretarial staff, Warrant officers, quartermasters, and anyone else who knows whats' going on.
Intelligence +5 to rolls Sages guild membership so bardic knowledge. 13 ranks in Hunter. 14 in the others, I've never taken any benefits form it, but I'm using the research to help get a handle on the paperwork and also find any problems.
Michael will take 10 for this first day. but if it's over a month long, he's taking 20.
Prudence Gundle Friday February 26th, 2021 10:46:46 PM
Pru tries to talk to all three applicants for the aid position. She isn't really interviewing them as such; it's more getting to know them and what kind of people they are.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Sunday February 28th, 2021 10:12:49 PM
After casting her divinations, Anna joins some of the others at the last assignment and says to Michael, "If Constance could do it all couldn't we get by with one person when we are away. Granted if they ever had illusions of grandier then they could try to pull of a coup while we are gone considering there is just one of them and 7 of us but I don't think any of the candidates are as powerful as we are. Then again if we are to choose quality over quantity there may come a day when a group rises through the ranks to rival us and that situation could be taken advantage of. I don't think things would happen this way but after Neutronis, probably couldn't hurt to wargame out potential worstcase scenarios, unlike although they may be."
DM Warren - Back to Business d100=44 ; d100=12 ; Monday March 1st, 2021 5:51:43 PM
Trayvin's questions find that only Claire has any preferred Deity, which is Ffloy, unsurprisingly. The Lieutenant is not religious, and Xiron is in tune with the natural world.
Anna's scrolls both function normally, and both questions come back with a "Weal".
Nikolai gets to work wrapping his head around the finances. Things are complicated, but this makes sense for an organization such as this. Michael sits down and helps out, and between them, they've got plenty of knowledge to figure things out. Qualtmie is happy to walk them through the books as well.
Michael wants to hire everyone, but notices that only one is currently working for the Fist. And Tinker reminds him that they wouldn't be by themselves, but rather as a chief of staff. Tinker has a nice chat with De Mowbray, but makes sure to keep things congenial and away from any official business.
Sigvar flexes his leg muscles and social muscles and is quite pleased that the troops can hold a conversation while on the run, even without quite the level of gear that Sigvar is rocking. He gets the same idea as Tinker. A reliable man, doesn't run his mouth, gets his work done, and never complains.
Pompous talks to the Captain on duty and gets the rundown of the patrol structure. It seems like the guard rotations are well run and efficient.
Pru finds that Claire is somewhat like herself. A little on the quiet side, but with obvious strength. Xiron hasn't made it here yet, but with her power, it's simple enough to teleport out to his digs if she wants. She gets the same read of DeMowbray as the others.
Anna starts getting some concerns about what can happen, but they'll do the best they can with hiring, training, and support to make sure that never becomes an issue.
Becoming a Knight Commander was not something he had ever aspired to become.
The concept... was almost intoxicating.
The rise in rank... so quickly... was difficult to grap.. difficult to understand... understand what it all meant.
It was all glory and glamour.... but was it was he wanted?
It could have more power... more glamour... more notoriaty... staying in the family business.....
What he wanted... was adventure... and renown.... and... and..... doing good.....
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Monday March 1st, 2021 8:30:16 PM
Trayvin inquires whether the Fist could afford to hire all three. If the finances are too tight then a decision would have to be made.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 12:07:31 AM
"If we do hire more than one of them," Pru says, "we should give them clear areas of responsibility. Otherwise it's three people trying to do the same job and getting in each others' way."
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 12:12:46 AM
Tinker spends the rest of the time before the interviews training muscles, skills, and brain. Even though the equipment shop and fighting salle are his favorite places to be, he not so coincidentally spends this training and working in every part of the Citadel, and rotates around so he works with every thumb and fist.
Trayvin’ question keeps in his mind, and the sturdy dwarf often needs a lock or iron-puzzle in his hands: opening and closing the mechanism helps him think.
“Palance was one person and got everything done. Did she do it alone or did she have her own discrete staff? There may be the skill sets we are looking for already here, and the thing we really need is someone reliable and trustworthy to keep things running when our special skills are needed elsewhere.”
Tinker makes some queries to find out.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 1:19:48 AM
1) Lieutenant Cedric de Mowbray - an aging human officer, looking to transition out of field work. 2) Claire Novik - A younger woman who has training as an acolyte of Ffloy and has been working as a scribe 3) Xiron - A centaur scholar who was a teacher in his tribe before deciding to travel the wider world.
Despite spending much time with the books, it still comes around that they need some help. Nikolai likes the idea of bringing all three in.
"It is not a matter of hiring anyone, really. As members of the Mailed Fist, they perform duties. Yes, they will get a pay, but they will all be members of the Mailed Fist. So first, we have one that is already a member, and second, we will need to verify that the other two are willing to go through the Basics with the new recruits, as all new members have to. As far as a Chief of Staff, someone who has been around a long time and knows just about everyone would be best. And why not promote Qualtmie to the Chief of Accounting position?
Now whether Commander Palance did everything or not, I don't know, but she did say she hadn't been in the field in a long time due to the paperwork to keep this place running. She probably had a few assistants, but did all the major stuff herself.
I'll take some time out from the finances and speak to these candidates after everyone's had their turn. They know they applied for the job of Chief of Staff, so it won't be a surprise interview. I'll just need to know what motivates them to want this position."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 2:06:54 AM
Anna says, "Well I've casted some simple divinations on Claire and Xiron and what is likely if we hire either one and both came back positive. I didn't bother with the lieutenant as he is already a member of the Mailed Fist."
She sighs and says, "I don't suppose we have any organizational charts back from when Palance was in charge. I'd be curious if this might list if she had any command staff potentially helping her, those assistants you are speaking of potentially, Nikolai, that is if they exist. I mean I get she gave us dossiers on these folks but you are right, if someone else within the Fist has the experience related to the kind of work we are looking for assistance with I say we seek them out as well and add them to the talent pool we spoke of. "
Knight Commander Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 42 (T 16, FF 38) CMD 41 HP 216 / 216 Character Sheet Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 6:46:46 AM
Sigvar puts aside the hiring of the aide and concentrates on the cadre of soldiers he wants to build. He will participate in the interview when they are all here but each of them seems to be getting the same impression of each candidate they look into so he sees no reason to have all of them concentrating on this.
DM Warren - Back to Business Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 2:50:55 PM
In terms of payment, it shouldn't be an issue. If you all continue with your pay structure, then there's Palance's salary that isn't on the books anymore. That could easily cover these 2 new hires.
Palance did seem to do the work of three people, but then again, she practically never left the Citadel. This doesn't jive with your plans for leadership, hence the new hiring. And yes, there are probably several people around that are much overdue for a promotion, Qualtmie being one of them. She's been doing more work than her station technically requires for ages now, so a promotion would be mostly a formality.
Sigvar finishes up his run, before taking the sergeant aside and letting him know he'll be taking some of the troops for special drills. He has his pick of the group, and has good recommendations from the sergeant and his own observations.
Nikolai takes his turn getting a read on the applicants.
Claire, though softspoken, is not intimidated by the parade of Knights Commander that want her for conversation. She seems used to dealing with superiors. Why do I want the job? I've been looking for a new challenge. I've been traveling between several cities, helping small merchants improve their business practices and function more efficiently to increase their profits. I'm ready for a bigger assignment.
Xiron answers calmly. I have been a teacher, and a teacher of teachers. However, my tribe has become insular. I crave new experiences, and your organization works with people, tribes, cities, all races and walks of life. It is time for me to learn again.
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 9:30:39 PM
Trayvin asks for some copies of Claire's work. He would like to have the Fist's scribes look it over and see how effective her work was.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 9:35:21 PM
Anna says to Claire, "Based on your observations of our organization so far do you have ideas to increase the efficency and profits of The Mailed Fist and if you do can you give us your best idea for an improvement?"
Anna says to Xiron, "You say you are a teacher and a teacher's teacher and that it is time for you to learn again? What is the most important lesson you've learned personally, the most important lesson you teach your students and the most important lesson you teach your students who are teachers themselves?"
When not around the applicants current being questioned she asks the other Knight Commanders, "Do we have any plans to interview the Lieutenant or possibly Qualtmie for the position?"
Michael Wittman AC:32, T:21, FF:25(ucdodge) HP 99/141 F+14, R+23,W+15, CMB+22, CMD+31 Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 10:22:54 PM ah man! I completely forgot about Q, she's a shoe in for logistics chief, as long as we have someone to take care of rats for her. I guess we need to figure out what we need then hire accordingly. I'd like to keep administrative staff to 3% or less of total manpower.
so for bookkeeper we have Claire, Logistics we have Q. Taining we have Xiron, he'll have to come up to speed on the physical limitations of all the races other than centaurs. Since the Loot has combat experience, and knows fist doctine I think he should be chief of staff. making a bookkeeper chief would starve the troops. making a quartermaster chief would work, but the troops will not follow a quartermaster if the battle is coming. and she don't know doctine and tactics. Xiron is a teacher, He'll have the respect of the troops, but we would be wasting his talents as chief of staff.
Prudence Gundle Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 11:14:33 PM
Pru is, honestly, a little bewildered by all this. "Bookkeeping is...keeping the books, right? It's an important job, but I don't think that's what Claire's talking about. She's talking about new ways of doing business, maybe new ways of writing contracts. She'd be like a Chief....Financial.....Officer. Or something."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 1:03:50 AM
[b]"It is possible that Commander Constance had already looked into getting some help before this happened to her and that is how she has these three names. We were not here for the position postings and she certainly has not had the time in these few days to put up a posting for any position without us knowing it. So any else interested was probably already weeded out. As far as Qualtmie, she probably didn't want that high a position. However, what we are proposing is different. Giving her the promotion she deserves as Chief Materiel Officer, with the pay, should not be much for debate. The Chief Financial officer can be Clair Novik, but we need to make sure that Clair and Qualtmie will get along, as those two will be working very, very close together. Chief Training Officer would be Xiron, provided he is comfortable dealing with horses as mounts, as he will be overseeing the cavalry unit. Chief of Staff then goes to Lieutenant De Mowbray.
If this can be agreed upon, then I'll approach Clair and Xiron and make sure they understand that if they accept these positions they will first need to undergo Basic Training. This is only fair. We can't have a Fist member not having gone through the Basics and Code training.
We'll take a vote, in secret if need be. We can slip our vote under the office door in the next couple of days. So we meet back here in two days and count the votes.
I need a drink, I'll be at the Last Assingment for a bit. Se y'all around."[/I]
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 3:39:11 AM
Tinker nods his head, even though the others can’t see it. The lay down makes sense for the dwarf except for two minor parts. He thinks to the others.
“Agree de Mowbray for Chief of Staff, and if the others accept they must go through Training for common culture and skills and esprit de Corp.”
“Suggest we have four Chiefs subordinate to the Chief of Staff (CoStaff) 1. CoFinance as Clair Novik, books and... contract negotiations. Let’s use that Ffloy training for us. 2. CoTraining as Xiron, for everything from Recruiting, Basic and all the training programs... and mustering out. The Fist takes care of our own after active retirement. The recruiting and retirement will keep Ciron meeting many cultures like he wants. 3. CoLogistics as Qualtmie. She works with but not under CoFinance, and she is in charge of everything: procurement, supply, maintenance, and the magical armory process. 4. CoOperations. De Mowbray can wear this ‘hat’ too, but it is different than CoStaff. CoOps is the field commander for the Fist when we aren’t there, while CoStaff main job is coordinating everything into one Fist focus based on the Knights Commander vision.”
Somehow, Tinker finds thinking words much easier than speaking them!
Regardless of how he feels about the the mundane life of an administrator, he must support the others and do his part.
He leaves the tower to rejoin the others.
On his way, he calls one of the corporals over...
" Walk with me... "
For a short time no words are exchanged... until...
" Corporal, what do you know of Clair Novik, Xiron, Qualtmie and De Mowbray...take your time... "
DM Warren - Back to Business Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 5:05:24 PM
Pompous reaches the same stumbling blocks as the others for the non Fist members. Until he happens upon a corporal that just recently came back from helping the cleanup in Wedding City. Oooo, I heard about her! My brother runs a shop out in the city and he was about on his last copper. But someone tipped him onto Claire, and she turned him right around. Now his shop is the only place you'd want to get a waistcoat!
Trayvin finds that all Claire's t's and i's are crossed and dotted. As for specifics to Anna, she says I wouldn't know without getting a look at your books. But most organizations such as this run into waste in several areas. Literal waste in some cases. Even a small redesign in the layout of waste disposal can lead to healthier troops and many saved man hours of cleaning.
Xiron stresses the importance of communication. Even when correcting behavior, you don't want to discourage your students. It's all about finding their motivation.
Between everyone though, the Agents have worked out an innovative leadership structure that appears to play to the strengths of each applicant, as well as the hardworking staff already at the Citadel.
As for basic training, Claire seems to not be the most enthusiastic, but is ready and willing to follow protocol. Xiron is ready to begin right now, if only for the joy of running in a new environment. De Mowbray, if hired, will immediately see to drafting the descriptions of the new positions and getting their hiring paperwork started so they can start basic and get down to business.
Michael Wittman AC:32, T:21, FF:25(ucdodge) HP 99/141 F+14, R+23,W+15, CMB+22, CMD+31 Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 9:52:10 PM
To Xiron, "Training a recruit to be a soldier is a bit more than just making sure you don't discourage them. We also have to insulate them against fear. the only way to do that is for them to do brave things, dangerous things, and surmount them. they also need to get used to stress and pain. these are a soldier's two constant companions. Thats one of the reasons that Basic is such a miserable experience. one of my old sargents told me one time "the more you sweat in training, the less you will bleed in combat." Ive found that to be very true. Physical fitness also helps. a tired man exibits the same symptoms as a man who is scared. heavy breathing, shaking, lack of focus, reduced mental capacity. so a man in good shape is less subject to fear than a man in poor shape. it's a simple fact of numbers that you have wash-outs in training. on average you lose about 10% that just cant cut the regimented lifestyle. then you will lose another 10% due to accidents, death, crime, cannot pass physical and any other reasons that I cannot remember right now. In general you don't really want to encourage folk during basic. you want to try and separate the sheep from the goats so to speak. not by activly trying to make them quit. Anyone can do that, but you want to make the training tough enough that it weeds out the poor soldiers, and strengthens the good ones. Now after basic, sure motivation is big thing, some of the tasks they have to learn are boring and try patience. so a motivated troop will do better than one who is not.
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 10:02:47 PM
Trayvin thinks most of this is shaping up quite well. He only asks if the applicants will agree to an active zone of truth spell during part of the interviews. He is more interested in their reaction to the use of the spell, than the results of actually using it.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 10:43:37 PM
Pru is glad that everything seems to be settled. She is eager to embark on this new journey.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Thursday March 4th, 2021 1:09:27 AM
Anna says to Claire, "To think something that is so easy to overlook could cause so much problems."
Anna says to Xiron, "Communication is important. I remember some of the problems my fist mates and I had when I took the form of other creatures before my lady granted me the ability to communicate in my altered state."
She says to Tinker, "I like your idea for the co-leadership staff positions. I know for a fact we have good things coming in hiring Xiron and Claire and Q and De Mobray are essentially premotions of people we already have working for us so we have their records to speak of their fine work."
She says, "I'm sure with the combination of not having the Commander's salary to worry about and Claire to help improve our efficiency and profitability we will not have problems affording the support staff structure you speculated. Furthermore aside from room and board when we are in the citadel, the services of the armory and quartermaster when provisioning missions in the field I'm pretty sure we can just plan on continuing how we've been getting paid so far which mostly came from the spoils of the foes we have defeated."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Thursday March 4th, 2021 1:25:58 AM
Nikolai likes the plan, not because it follows along the lines he was thinking, but because it makes the most sense. With the command structure divided such, less chance any one administrator get a swollen head. Each one has just as an important part in getting the Mailed Fist back into the competing market for mercenary services and show any clients that the Mailed Fist's reputation is as good as it ever was.
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 Thursday March 4th, 2021 1:39:04 AM
Tinker idly plays with a new locking mechanism and considers what he doesn’t know. Nikolai’s musing makes a focus for his unasked questions and he engages the team of Knights Commander.
“I thought everyone in the Wold knew the Mailed Fist is the best. Best trained, best disciplined, best reliable. That the Battle of Ailisidur ended Neutronis’ attempt at nation-building and crushed the people who failed to live up to Fist standards and moral character.”
“Can anyone tell me what I don’t know? What am I missing here?”
DM Warren - Back to Business Thursday March 4th, 2021 4:41:14 PM
Xiron in thoughtful during his conversation with Michael. You make some interesting points. And a great scholar once said that "fatigue makes cowards of us all." But I disagree with one point. We must not insulate ourselves from fear. Fear is useful. Fear helps us make good decisions rather than being reckless. Why avoid your opponents blows if not for fear of being cut?
And I also educate the mind, so that each recruit can make good decisions in stressful situations.
None of the new staff objects to a zone of truth. Xiron wonders why anyone would ever lie, and Claire admits that it's a tool she's used herself to root out problems in the past, like finding a barkeeper that was skimming from the owner's till.
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Thursday March 4th, 2021 9:24:47 PM
The candidates all seem to pass 'the test' for Trayvin and he has no further questions for them. He keeps the zone of truth active for a bit in case anyone would like to make use of it.
Prudence Gundle Friday March 5th, 2021 12:17:20 AM
Pru has no more questions for the applicants.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Friday March 5th, 2021 12:35:56 AM
Nikolai does better by observing rather than grilling. Only time will tell if these candidates will work out, but they will have a lot of help from those who were helping Commander Constance.
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 Friday March 5th, 2021 2:44:05 AM
Tinker keeps silent and nods: he’s already made his vote
Chief of Staff. De Mowbray Chief of Operations. also De Mowbray Chief of Finance. Claire Chief of Training. Xiron Chief of Logistics. Qualtrime
He keeps quiet about what he doesn’t know. The others will tell him in good time; or he will just find out himself. He is a rogue after all.
The thought makes Tinker smile in his beard.
Michael Wittman AC:32, T:21, FF:25(ucdodge) HP 99/141 F+14, R+23,W+15, CMB+22, CMD+31 Friday March 5th, 2021 2:50:07 AM
Michael is satisfide with the selection.. and thinks that Xiron is flexible and smart enough to adapt to the life of a soldier.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Friday March 5th, 2021 4:04:31 AM
Anna has no objections to the plan that Tinker laid out. She trusts Q and De Mowbray and her lady indicated that Claire and Xiron could only bring benefit by hiring them. Claire seems to have a good head on her shoulders and Xiron wise.
She asks a final question to Claire though, "Sometimes deals are struck in haste when emotions are high, do followers of Floy allow any provisions for renegotiating such deals later when things have calmed down? I speak of course of a specific high costing obligation the Fist owes Aisildur for peace following Neutronis's folly. While we can shoulder it, the cost incurred is a heavy burden and we could do so much more if it would be possible to lighten the load, especially since the Fist has been fielding heroes that have done things like help save the Wold from the Sargrass invasion or save Wedding City from a dragon cult masquerading as followers of Ma'ab. Do these good deeds not count for anything?"
Knight Commander Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 42 (T 16, FF 38) CMD 41 HP 216 / 216 Character Sheet Friday March 5th, 2021 11:55:13 AM
Sigvar poke his nose into the selection process. He had been monitoring the others input and nodding here and there as they made points and clarifications. He agreed with the layout Tinker had suggested.
DM Warren - Back to Business Friday March 5th, 2021 4:08:48 PM
De Mowbray graciously accepts his new assignment with little fanfare. Despite his age, he offers a crisp salute that no drill sergeant could find fault with.
I look forward to assisting you in my new position. I'll go draw up the rest of the paperwork for the new other assignments and have it on your desk in the morning. The newbies can start their training immediately.
I also took the liberty of bringing your missives up with me. He lays several letters on the table, which bear the seals of several organizations around the Wold.
The Dragon Consortium (and Iron Dragons)
The letter is penned with impeccable handwriting on paper that smells faintly of sandalwood.
Esteemed sirs, madams, and otherwise:
It is good and proper for persons of all races, stations, and temperaments to come together in difficult times. That is why I felt the need to reach out when I learned of your plight. It seems that you have at last suffered the harshest, final punishment forced upon persons of exceptional ability and competence: leadership. In this, I can offer no assistance. Your professionalism, outstanding achievements, and noble hearts have left me no avenues with which to speak against this dreadful burden.
Though my inability to assist you will weigh heavily on me for some time, I take solace in the fact that the Wold will indeed be a fairer, juster place with the Fist under your combined leadership. I can only hope your own upcoming trials will be eased by this knowledge as well. Know that The Dragon Consortium stands ready to work with you towards these ends.
Should the need to commiserate together arise, I hope you will not hesitate to reach out.
Sincerely yours, Restlin the Mendicant Iron Dragon Head Archanist, House Avon
The Woldian League of Adventurers
Dear Sirs and Madams,
Please accept our warm congratulations on your new appointments and our best wishes for your success as you prepare to take up the responsibilities and challenges of your high office.
As you embark upon your new responsibilities, we wish to assure you and the people of the Mailed Fist of the continued friendship and sympathetic interest of the Woldian League of Adventurers.
We look forward to working with you not only to develop closer relations between our organisations but also to concert our efforts in the cause of peace and the brotherhood of all peoples.
Sincerely, The League Council of the Woldian League of Adventurers.
Included with the letter is a gift: a detailed map of the Wold, painstakingly drawn and carefully colored on a thick - and no doubt expensive - canvas. It measures some 6ft by 10ft in total. It would have taken a craftsman weeks (even months) to create this work of art. Special: Can be used as a scrying focus, and provides a +2 bonus to the DC of the spell
Fargunia
I write to congratulate you on your appointment as the leaders of the Mailed Fist. I send you all the good wishes for the exercise of your new mandate and I pray Ffloy's blessing on you, your families and the people of the Mailed Fist.
Your people and, indeed, the whole Wold will be watching closely to see how you, as the new leaders, will deal with the current events of the Wold.
Your Sirs, I am fully aware of the immensity of the task that lies before you. Please be assured of the support of Fargunia and Zarthmoor and of our willingness to work with you and your people in maintaining an organisation founded on justice, peace and protection
With respect and good wishes,
Barmurg Archbaron of Fargunia
Included with the letter is a gift: A rosewood box containing 8 delicate quills. The nibs are made from polished adamantite, and the long royal purple feathers are from jub-jub bird hatchlings. A fitting gift from a nation known for its sages.
The Temple of Ga’al
The temple of Ga'al hereby acknowledges the new leadership of the Mailed Fist.
We hope this signals a new time of strength across the Northern Continent and provides direction to those sorely lacking it.
May your will be as strong as your steel.
Kelofalous High Priest of Ga’al.
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 Saturday March 6th, 2021 5:52:31 AM
Tinker’s eyebrows rise into his hairline at the signatures on the missives. He doesn’t recognize them all, but... impressive.
“KCs, Claire, are any of these a lead for contracts?”
He glances and gives a head bob at Michael. “We’re birds of a feather and I got a hole in need of plugging.”
Michael Wittman AC:32, T:21, FF:25(ucdodge) HP 99/141 F+14, R+23,W+15, CMB+22, CMD+31 Sunday March 7th, 2021 11:26:23 PM
Michael is unaware of Tinker, his eyes are on the message from Ga'al. the hair rises on his neck and he breaks out in a cold sweat. Ga'al does not offer vague pleasantries without a reason. Maybe it's just his way of rubbing their noses in the Danegeld, or maybe it was a way of opening them up for infiltration by his minions. Kelofalus, the name means nothing, the heartseeded all speak with the god's voice.
He snaps back to the present. and realizes that Tinker had said something.
Sorry old friend, did you say something?
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Monday March 8th, 2021 12:20:23 AM
Nikolai agrees with the nominations and intends to stay around to watch the first weeks of training for all new recruits, but especially to watch Clair and Xiron.
Nikolai was not expecting any type of acknowledgement from anyone regarding the promotions, and is surprised when he read them. He fells better about their new positions new, but does ponder if Ga'al has any ulterior motive. That they strived very hard to put things back together, it does not seem the type of thing Ga'al would really care about, unless he believes that the Mailed Fist might turn to him for strength to overcome the adversities that lie ahead.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Monday March 8th, 2021 1:56:02 AM
Anna says, "My what nice gifts and acknowledgments. Well except for maybe from the priest of Ga'al as that sentiment about 'a new time of strength across the Northern Continent and provides direction to those sorely lacking it' seems like something Neutronis would have agreed with, Megolomaniac that he was."
She thinks on the sentiment and then says "Though I mean maybe his words don't have to have a negative canotation. I mean we obviously aren't fielding the kind of numbers we used to back in the day, but what if one of our new functions is as a sort of adventurer / noble reform school. Think about it. Got a prince that is acting up and you are worried they won't be fit to rule when the time comes? Send them to the Mailed Fist Military Academy Training program and have us instill in him the discipline to become a good man and just ruler. Got an adventuring party member that either just won't follow the rules or is otherwise inept? Send them to the Mailed Fist Reform School Military Academy Training program and have us instill in them the discipline to do the right thing and the skills needed to get the job done right. Or am I kind of just not having good ideas here. I mean couldn't we charge for the privilege of attending if our methods get results?"
Prudence Gundle Monday March 8th, 2021 3:19:01 PM
Pru winces a little at Anna's speech. Her own parents had used the Fist as a "reform school" for something Pru couldn't help and had no control over. And yes, it had turned out all right, but....
"We want to be careful with that," she says. "Sometimes the person being blamed isn't really misbehaving."
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 Monday March 8th, 2021 3:43:18 PM
Tinker motions for Michael to move a little away from the others. “Wanna talk under the roses?” He asks, looking for a private talk.
“So... what has happened since I’ve been gone? I thought the six companies were reorganized after the Battle of Alisidur. And the bargain through the clerics of Ffloy at the battle enabled many who were dead and not traitors to be returned to us, Nikolai included.”
“But I’m also hearing hints that there was a further falling out of companies in the Fist and the Bargain is different than what I remember. You ready to tell me what’s going on?”
Tinker looks to his friend to fill in the blanks. The dwarf knows that leadership decisions without vital information can easily lead to disaster, and Tinker isn’t sure of his footing right now.
Pompous (Yves_B) AC 26/ SR 20 CMD 30, HP 170/170/ Monday March 8th, 2021 4:22:33 PM
Before Pompous stands apart but listens intently as proposals are made for positions. He sees the wisdom in what is being proposed and also nods his agreement.
Now Pompous' pride shows as the various messages are read out loud. His cheeks redden and his grin is wide.
Such a feat to attend this level of achievement at his young age. A feat indeed.
DM Warren - Back to Business Monday March 8th, 2021 4:29:03 PM
Tinker needs a bit of catching up on Fist operations since the reformation. He's sure to get the situation update once Michael comes out of his haze. Was there something weird about that letter from Ga'al? Probably not, and Michael is just having an abundance of caution.
Anna comes up with an idea for bringing in some more money, possibly having wealthy donors or patrons. Pru is worried that they only take in students for the right reasons. Give them a place to learn and grow, rather than being all but abandoned by families that don't understand their childrens' gifts.
Meanwhile, a few things have caught the KCs' eyes as they review the operations. Nikolai finds a contract that is soon to be cancelled. It looks like a small town that employed the Fist to deal with increased orc activity in the Red Hills can't afford to extend their contract, even though the problem is ongoing.
Pompous was approached by a haggard looking farmer while he was out inspecting patrols. He's been being harassed by some local thugs and has come looking for someone to send a patrol around his way every so often to discourage them. He can't pay much, but he can offer a share of his upcoming harvest.
While out in the yard training, Sigvar sees a man in Fist uniform in manacles and being escorted to the holding cells. Several other Fist members are observing, and don't look too happy about the situation.
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Monday March 8th, 2021 8:27:33 PM
Trayvin is impressed with the letters, and the gifts. The map is quite impressive, we will need to find a good place to display it, and protect it from damage. Trayvin does not show much concern over the letter from the Temple of Ga'al. Let's hope that the letter means simply what it says, and does not contain any nefarious subterfuge. Still, I suppose it would be wise to be vigilant.
It looks like there are several issues for the former Agents to look into, and one of them very close indeed. Sigvar, what is going on over there?
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Tuesday March 9th, 2021 12:13:48 AM
Nikolai inquires of the library staff for a magical means of preserving those parchments. "We have a lot of old valuable documents here being preserved in some manner, see about preserving these."
The contract with the village harassed by orcs catches his eye. He looks into the books for the unit that is currently assigned to that contract then summons the Thumb.
"So, tell me everything you have found out about this village and their orc problem," he asks.
As Anna and Pru discuss the financial possibilities their military school can offer, he chimes in, "We must make sure we make a distinction between those who come here to be a member of the Mailed Fist, at least for one Tour, and those who come here for military education and training but won't be joining the Mailed Fist. Like that prince you were talking about, or the bungling adventurer. There are those who cannot afford to send their son or daughter to apprenticeship in a craft or profession so they send them here in hopes of a future for them. So, let us be careful as we start our new recruiting campaign, as we will need different approaches for the different cases."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Tuesday March 9th, 2021 1:00:20 AM
Anna says, "Right we can differentiate between the different programs. Obviously the princling won't be staying with our organization if the whole point is making him fit to rule. The adventurer on the other hand who can say? I mean our group of 8 specialists has been very effective at what we set out to do. Suppose we reformed and we refined the would-be thief and we find he has a knack for intelligence gathering or analysis, would be a real shame to let a talent like that go to waste."
To Pru she says, "Didn't your experience in the Fist work out to the benefit of your family and yourself? You never would have met Nikolai had you stayed on the farm and your family would have either been vampire food or thralls"
When she hears about the town with the orc problem that is ongoing and they are running out of a means to pay she asks, "What have we done about these orcs so far?"
Michael Wittman AC:32, T:21, FF:25(ucdodge) HP 99/141 F+14, R+23,W+15, CMB+22, CMD+31 Tuesday March 9th, 2021 3:07:33 AM How many men do we have at the village in the red hills? how big is the village? what is their livelihood? could we send cadre there to form up a town millita? if it's a farming village that won't work, they work away in the fields and could not form up in time. if they are craftsmen, it could work, they all stay in town mostly. Maybe we need to eradicate the orcs within a 20 mile radius of the town if they aren't amenable to reason. mainly we need to find out why the orcs are being a bother. if they are trying to raid the village are they doing it because orcs are savage and they want to kill or are they doing it for some other reason? lets see what the farmer grows, maybe, and slap me if I am stepping on any toes, maybe instead of a share of his harvest we could buy the whole harvest for a reduced price. you ladies run the numbers and see if it can work out, we go through a lot of food, if we can eat well and save money we should. even if it does not, I'm not going to sit around and let thugs make life hard for a working man. lets send a patrol out to the farmers farm to catch these thugs. if it's just young men who are down on their luck, it might be we could help them get a new start, if it's something else, well...that what we soldiers do.
As far as teaching a young princeling how to rule, that's a tough one. they need to be able to put themselves in the shoes of the common man, and at the same time keep their eyes on the big picture. putting them through a really rigorous ranger course will ensure that they never allow their subjects to starve without reason. and giving them leadership opportunities will help prepare them for leadership. but the ranger school could make him into a miser with no fire to rule and the leadership could turn him into a monster who uses people, it's a fine line to walk, and sadly the rougher it is the more likely he will turn out right, if he lives.
Knight Commander Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 42 (T 16, FF 38) CMD 41 HP 216 / 216 Character Sheet Tuesday March 9th, 2021 6:06:31 AM I am unsure Trayvin, but will find out presently Sigvar concludes his review of the yard and heads to the stockade. He steps inside and as he does recalls the cramped cells he had been held in. " Guards, what have we got here? Why has this soldier been sent to the stockade? What are the charges?"
"Don't fret my friend, We'll deal with these thugs, even if I need to do it myself. Now, let's go get a meal and some ale. I for one could use both "
Once back to officer's mess, he encourages the farmer to fill his plate with as much food as he can eat. There are a few sideways looks at the sight of the poor farmer eating with the officers, but no one dares say anything to the new Knight Commander.
Pompous spots a captain walking by. He pushes back a chair back and directs in a firm tone that she takes a seat with them.
" Captain, my new friend here has been tormented by some ruffians. Lets hear his tales and set to helping him shall we. "
There were no questions in the Knight Commander's tone. With a by your leave, the Captain sits. The hall come to a hush.
"Now, tell me all you know about them. How many, what race, where do they come from, their arms. Anything at all "
Prudence Gundle Tuesday March 9th, 2021 3:23:30 PM Didn't your experience in the Fist work out to the benefit of your family and yourself? Pru has a sudden image of her thirteen-year-old self, alone in the world, crying herself to sleep. "I suppose that depends on how you look at it," she responds tactfully.
On the village in the Red Hills: "It might be that one final push will get rid of the orcs, or at least persuade them to go elsewhere. That's something we could do ourselves. Might be fun."
On the farmer harassed by thugs: "Is it just this one man being harassed? Or are there others? Either way, I think we can send a patrol out there way. It might be good training for some of the new recruits."
DM Warren - Back to Business Tuesday March 9th, 2021 7:20:51 PM just some housekeeping 1) We'll do our best to know when you're all using badge telepathy. 2) I'll give you info on all 3 issues now since you've asked, but let me know if you want to focus on one in particular
(Sigvar and Trayvin) The Thumb turns and salutes. Desertion, sir. This soldier didn't show up for duty this morning. He wasn't hard to track down though, and we brought him back. I think 5 days in holding should do, being a first offence and all.
(Nikolai, Anna, Michael) We got 2 Fists out right quick to deal with a couple isolated raids on a 2 week contract. We drove off the attackers, who were raiding outlying ranches for their livestock, but they only seemed to increase with resistance. We helped fortify the center of town, but they can't afford to keep us out there any longer.
(Pompous and Pru) The farmer seems overwhelmed at the show of support so quickly. Pompous is quick to promise assistance, but despite his rank, he should probably think and discuss a bit before committing Fist resources. He opens up to them pretty easily, glad to have a supportive ear. Oh, it's just a few ruffians. They come by every few days and demand some protection money. Not that there's anything to be protected from besides them! Humans, I think. Though some stay hooded and out of sight, so they could be other races? I couldn't tell you where they come from though.
Knight Commander Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 42 (T 16, FF 38) CMD 41 HP 216 / 216 Character Sheet Tuesday March 9th, 2021 8:26:06 PM
Turning to the soldier in chains. " Why were you not at your post?" A level, unassuming question. The Thumb already has the right of it, five days confinement was the penalty most often meted out for desertion. Sigvar wanted to know why though. If there were a reason to be deserting then maybe he should know about it.
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Tuesday March 9th, 2021 8:47:36 PM
Trayvin joins in the questioning of the soldier. He does not indicate there will be any leniency on the penalty, but maybe the cause of the situation can be improved.
What is your name? This is a concerning offense, but we would like to know your reasons for this act.
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 Wednesday March 10th, 2021 12:17:06 AM
Tinker waits for a bit of catching up on Fist operations since “the reformation”.
The dwarf frowns into his red beard at the KCs giving away free services: very unprofessional! If they keep doing this, how will they pay the troops and upkeep of equipment and logistics train: quite unsupportable! But on the other hand, a bit of publicity that the Fist takes care of our own local area wouldn’t be a bad thing. So in the end, Tinker only glowers and keeps his mouth shut. Otherwise known as acting normal.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Wednesday March 10th, 2021 1:26:12 AM
Nikolai hears, from one source or another, the different cases. If two Fists could not root out the orc problem, then it calls for tougher measures, one that won't cost the MF the resources for other contracts. That means Nikolai's Fist to deal with the orcs.
He passes out this to his friends but adds, "I will go, in disguise as a poor farmer, and get some intel on those ruffians. Someone else who can look like a poor farmer can come with me. When the ruffians show up, we will teach them a lesson by knocking them silly and bringing them to the Mailed Fist jail. No one extorts from our own people from right under our noses."
The problem with the desertion he sees that Trayvin and Sigvar have that well in hand and just asks the two to led him know what excuse the deserter has. There are provisions to release a member from their Tour of Duty, no point in having someone be a danger to the others.
With that, he goes to meet the farmer talking to Pompous and Pru. "Hi, I'm Nikolai. Tells us everything you know about these scoundrels. What is their schedule? What is their territory? What do they call themselves? When do you next expect them to come around to collect?"
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Wednesday March 10th, 2021 4:32:38 AM
Anna uses the badge and sends to Nikolai on the party line, "I can disguise myself as either a poor farmer or a poor farmer's dog or mule, which would you prefer? Heck give me a beat to study our poor farmer friend here and I can even appear as him."
Anna is also interested in taking care of the orc problem once and for all especially if a small detail only made the problem worse. She agrees with Nikolai's plan for the Knight Commanders to nip things in the bud with respect to the orcs.
She takes her leave with Nikolai and goes to rendezvous with Pompous and Pru. She says to the farmer, "This may sound like some odd questions but do the Ruffians hastle farmers with animals with them or tend to leave them alone? If we were to potentially teach these ruffian's a lesson would you be ok if I made myself appear as you or do you think any benefit like them thinking you had mystical powers would not be worth the risk of retaliation?"
" Well, friend farmer, you now not only have the attention of the good Captain here but three Knight Commanders. Me thinks that these never do wells will be delt with. Please, my friend Nikki here has asked you some important questions. "
{ Message- Pru and Nik- Me thinks that we can take our payments off the ruffians and in the process gain an ally with the farmer and some good public relations with the locals. One never knows when having access to a season's harvest, at a reasonable price, will come in handy, Besides, if these bandits are running a protection racket, odds are good that this poor fellow is not the only victim. If you two want to play infiltrator, I can take a few troops, including the captain here, and bivouac near by until called upon. }
DM Warren - Back to Business Wednesday March 10th, 2021 6:07:13 PM
1)The soldier being led to serve his time in the cells is sullen and reluctant to speak. I'm sure my Thumb will have everything detailed in his arrest report, sirs. Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You catch a few subtle glance that give you the impression that he doesn't want to discuss this around his Thumb.}
2)The farmer doesn't have any more information for Nikolai. There's no set schedule and I couldn't tell you where they base themselves. I don't know if they hassle other folk or if it's just me. I just figured that a Fist presence in the area every so often would discourage them. Anna seems to have struck on a good idea. If she impersonates the farmer and shows the ruffians what for, it would probably prevent them coming back in the future.
3)What would take a double Fist of Fists to accomplish is probably an afternoon's work for the KC Council. Plus, it would give the impression that the leadership takes a personal interest in the successful completion of every contract. Tinker will also make sure that they get their due from the bad guys in the scenario, so there should be no issue of working for free.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday March 10th, 2021 8:42:52 PM
Pru decides to skip the recon mission. She....is no longer inconspicuous. Her braid is now the color of living flame, and there is red around her eyes and brows as well. She needs her headband to be able to cast her spells, but wearing it, her Charisma is ridiculous. She doesn't blend.
Instead, she studies all the information the Fist has about the village being plagued by orcs. Hopefully, she'll be able to teleport the team there when the time comes.
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) d20+15=16 ; Wednesday March 10th, 2021 8:44:01 PM
sense motive check = 16
Trayvin feels like he missed something important but isn't sure what. Umm, of course. I look forward to reading the report.
If Sigvar is finished with the soldier, Trayvin lets them proceed with taking the man to the jail. Unless there is another lead to follow, Trayvin goes to find the report and read it.
{ Message - Nikki and Anna- How about Anna and I play farm hands with a few elite soldiers. We wait for the thugs to show up and we arrest them. We confiscate anything of value they have to pay for the Fists' services and throw them in irons for a few months. If they were shaking down other farmers, we locate them and show the flag. If it's determined that innocents were harmed by this crew, we hang them.
End result, we send a message that this land is under the Fist's protection.}
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 Thursday March 11th, 2021 12:32:53 AM
Tinker has to nod at Pompous’ reasoning: after all, ‘under new management should mean something positive , both for the Fist as those who the mercenary company depends on.
The dwarf, unless on a sneak, is also conspicuous (being an extremely well-armed dwarf in human lands), and stays near Prudence for a teleport meet if things are bigger than they appear. He unconsciously plays with a smithy iron-puzzle, solving and unsolving it with blunt but deft fingers.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 d20+40=45 ; Thursday March 11th, 2021 1:31:12 AM
Using her Queen's Minion ability and alter self chosen for the day Anna turns into the farmer (disguise: 45)
She uses the badge and sends back to Pompous, Nikolai and Pru on the party line so others can hear too if they want It seems like if I take the form of our poor farmer friend here and give them what for then the ruffians won't be back. I worry if we have too big a crowd in the immediate area that they won't attack at all but if I disguise myself as the farmer like so and Nikolai uses his hat of disguise to become a farm hand they'd attack us. If you really want to have a cadre of elite troops on standby in case Nikolai with his Monk and Ranger training and I with the fury of nature aren't enough then have Pru be ready to teleport them to where Nikola and I are if things go south but if the 2 of us can't subdue a local gang of ruffians what are we even doing. Heck I'll take the form of a bear after they hastle us and tell the ruffians our farmer friend is a wearbear with excellent self-control but enough is enough
Michael Wittman AC:32, T:21, FF:25(ucdodge) HP 99/141 F+14, R+23,W+15, CMB+22, CMD+31 Thursday March 11th, 2021 1:31:50 AM
Michael is a bit disconcerted, Money is always an issue, but with the appearance of the gods at the ceremony he feels they must dedicate a least a portion of their manpower, wealth and skills to good works in spite of ability to pay. this leads to a quandary though. if they are seen as doing stuff for free, then the troops think it's alright to do stuff for free then the next thing you know folk aren't watching their posts, thumbs aren't following orders and the whole thing catches fire. on the bright side though. if they are broke they don't have to pay Aisildur any gold. so good with the bad.
While the other KC's go out and have a bit of fun with the farmer, Michael stays behind to run the shop, but when they get ready to go to Izen and the Red Hills, he's all over that. he lets Pru know, that if this look to develop into something deadly to teleport him in if they need help.
I'm a bit confused here. The farmer approches Pompous, Pompous takes him to the officer's mess to role play the encounter out.As hinted, Pompous would have likely send the captain out with a patrol, maybe join in if determined that it was needed.
Then suddenly Nik, Anna and Pru show up, At no time were any of you summoned nor did Pompous use the badge com to inform anyone of what what happening. How did they know?
And now his plans are being dismissed and the matter taken over by two other players? And, Pompous isn't needed at all in the encounter anymore.
So, he'll be leaving. Anna and Nik can deal with the issue. .
I didn't realise that there are levels of Knight Commanders with Pompous still the junior member.
Not cool.
( And yes, I'm intentionaly posting this to the board in ooc vs emails. I'm not a happy dude)
If I missed something, I'll apolagize.
Knight Commander Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 42 (T 16, FF 38) CMD 41 HP 216 / 216 Character Sheet d20+7=22 ; Thursday March 11th, 2021 7:44:59 AM
Sense Motive 22 Sigvar thinks at Trayvin, He isn't saying why because his Thumb is here. Do you think you could take the Thumb and get him started on that report and I'll keep you posted on what the prisoner has to say? Aloud he says. " Sounds good to me. Trayvin why don't you go look over that report with the Thumb. I'll secure the prisoner and be along shortly." Once the Thumb is gone Sigvar asks again why the guard wasn't at his post.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Thursday March 11th, 2021 8:28:18 AM
(OOC: We really need to come up with a better way of dealing with everything. We are now in a rule by committee situation with the Fist for better or for worse and I honestly didn't mean to steal Yves / Pompous's thunder in dealing w/ the farmer situation but Nikolai / Jonathan asked for someone who is good at Disguise [Max ranks in disguise, deceptive feat, bonus from alter self effect + morphling only ability to actually impersonate someone = Anna is perfect for the job] Looking at the situation logically you have a local band of ruffians hastling singular or small groups of farmers, if you have pompous, nikolai and anna all disguised with a cadre of elite fist guards pretending to be farmhands what are the odss that the ruffians take one look at the assembled force and give it a pass, opting to instead come back when there are smaller numbers of farmers. The Nikolai plan of 1 to 2 people scouting or springing the ambush logistically makes better sense considering the likelihood differential in power between high level PCs and likely low level NPC thugs picking on even weaker lower level NPC farmers and seeing themselves get utterly thrashed by said small groups of farmers would really make said ruffians think twice, but that is just my opinion; honestly if we have multiple ideas to how to deal with the situation and we really are a committee where everyone gets equal votes then I say outline the differing aspects of the plan and put it to a vote by all the Knight Commanders not just Nikolai and Anna)
DM Warren - Back to Business Thursday March 11th, 2021 4:53:33 PM
Pru is able to easily find her background information. The town is at the foot of the Red Hills, and the squad has quite a detailed map of the area, the routes there, and the layout of the town, including their reinforcements of the square, the new walls, and the outbuildings and farms that have been razed.
Pompous is miffed. He raises a good point. How much are they running things by committee versus their individual authority? Is his own seal good enough to get a loadout from Qualtmie, or do they need everything signed 8 times? It seems like there is some procedure to work out.
The soldier is visibly relieved once his officer has gone off, happy to talk to Sigvar by himself. Thank you, sir. I'm sorry, sir. But my child fell ill, and my wife soon after taking care of him. They've no one else right now and I just wanted to go home for a few days to take care of them. I know deserting my duties was wrong, but my thumb wouldn't give me the time off. I'll be happy to serve my sentence, but can I please defer it until after I've seen them recovered?
Prudence Gundle Thursday March 11th, 2021 9:53:12 PM
Pru continues in her studies. It doesn't hurt to be prepared.
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Thursday March 11th, 2021 10:10:54 PM
Trayvin nods in understanding, knowing Sigvar will fill him in later with the soldier's story. He meets with the Thumb and reads the report to hear the other side of it before he meets with Sigvar.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Friday March 12th, 2021 1:45:12 AM
OOC: I had no intention of stealing anything from Pompous, but have him and Nikolai and one other do the intel work disguised. In my post I stated Nikolai hears, from one source or another, the different cases. because of exactly what Yves said, he had not convey the info.
However, I did not think it was the DM's idea to limit the interactions of the PCs to only those immediately approached. If that was the case, then Nikolai would have nothing to do but to putter around until someone said something, however many days later.
Nikolai asking questions does not take the Leadership Rod away from Pompous. Pompous can just as easily use the Hat of Disguise, as Nikolai can look like a poor farmer without it.
IC: Nikolai looks at Pompous, "Pompous, looks like finding these guys in action will take several of us spread out. We can't go bunched up. You take the immediate neighborhood around this farmer's home. I'll stake out the next one over. Anna, you take another neighborhood, however you might be able to cover far more territory and see and hear much more as a small bird. It's up to you. Pru can stand ready to teleport in a Fist of guards with manacles after we've got them identified and rounded up."
OOC: I get the point that Yves feels the rug has been pulled out from under Pompous. However, once pointing that out, a post where Pompous steps up and takes the lead in putting forward a plan would put the rug right back under his feet. The ball was free to pick up and run with. And still is.
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 Friday March 12th, 2021 1:48:15 AM
Tinker continues his re-familiarization with the Citadel. He makes a point at stopping and chatting with each of the new Chiefs wherever they may happen to be. Besides pleasantries, the dwarf ensures he says two things:
First, “What do you need from the KCs to do your job better?”
And second, and the more public the better, “Keep up the great work, you are doing the Fist proud.”
Tinker keeps his weapons and handy haversack with him at all times, ready to sprint to Prudence in case anything hits the winnowing fan. As Bean Pole says, ‘It doesn’t hurt to be prepared.”
Michael Wittman AC:32, T:21, FF:25(ucdodge) HP 99/141 F+14, R+23,W+15, CMB+22, CMD+31 d20+14=19 ; Friday March 12th, 2021 1:54:22 AM
Michael listens in on the argument, it's going to be hard for Nikolai to get used to being just a KC and not a Thumb anymore, Technically we are all the same rank now. but Thumb habits die hard. and ego's will get bruised until things work out. Michael wonders if troop medical benefits encompass the Troups family, Wardds sight what a headache that will be to get a handle on!. Imagine a world without clerics, where you had to heal normally, just paying the bloodletters would get expensive quick. still the cleric only have so many spells a day, so it's a finite resource, but setting up an inexpensive clinic. with 10% of the clerics and corpsmen working at daily would be a great way to train up medical skills and it may be able to pay for it's upkeep.
he does some research into the cost associated with training medical staff, clerics and materials cost. then puts the idea to Claire, as a cleric of Ffoy she might have some insights into how something like this would work.
Research Sage chamber of records 14
19
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Friday March 12th, 2021 2:18:51 AM
Anna says, "Well I could be a bird for 17 minutes a few times or I can be a humanoid indefinitely based on what I asked my lady for. I also can dimension door once per day for myself and travel a little over 800 feet so I could always fly out to the far neighborhood, turn into our farmer and dimension door to the next one if the thugs are not there."
(OOC: I didn't mean to come across as defensive I just wanted my thoughts to be out there. I'm more than happy to help Jonathan and Yves resolve the issue and as for my vote on how we move forward I like the badge option as this gives this more flexibility than some of the other options. I think there will be some getting used to the new dynamic and hopefully after this incident we'll be more cognizant moving forward.)
Pompous hears the others but it is still evident that the chain of command within the inner circle hasn't changed. He is still the little brother doing what the older siblings tell him with a "There there whipe your tears and have a treat" when he expresses his discontent.
This will not do. A large organisation like this cannot operate this way,
He certainly knows better then to air the group's dirty laundry in public. There will need to be a clear way of doing things.
Pompous rises...
" Friend farmer, I leave you in these Lord Commander's hands. They appear to have decided on plans. The Fist will protect you and yours. My word is my bond. "
" Captain, pick two men and join me at the stables. We ride within the hour. We will patrol the area around our new friend's homestead for a few days and track these hooligans. Tracking IS afterall what a ranger does best. Pack accordingly. "
Without awaiting any further discussions, he turns heel and walks out.
{ We will need to discuss this in private at my return, away from the troops, I am not amused with how this played out. If we are to be equals in our commanding roles, there will need to be an understanding that I am no longer your underling.
End message }
The lack of "Nikkis" and "Anna Bananas" in Pompous' message clearly sets the tone. The ranger is obviously troubled.
DM Warren - Back to Business Friday March 12th, 2021 4:45:12 PM
Pompous acknowledges the good ideas of his co-commanders, but holds his ground in the need to reassess their working relationship. Between the 3 of them though, they're able to agree on a workable plan. They set a trap for the man's abusers, and indeed they didn't need a huge presence. These men would not be a threat to anyone with even some basic training, and they can scare the living daylights out of them and imprison the leader, all while making a few coins on the side for their efforts.
The new chiefs appreciate Tinker's sentiments. They're all new to the jobs for now, other than Qualtmie of course. And she's known you all long enough to have a sense of what's going on behind the scenes. For now, the best help will be hammering out your new work dynamics. And of course, get us a list of priorities that we should be working on when you go out on assignment.
Trayvin keeps the officer occupied, getting his side of the story. As far as you can tell, there was no real reason to deny a few days leave. Other than the rest of the squad would have had to work a bit harder to pick up the slack in his absence.
ooc: yes, these were proposed as a few scenarios to see how you would react to them, how you'd use your new authority, and now has turned into figuring out more of your working relationships. The next module is close to being approved.
Knight Commander Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 42 (T 16, FF 38) CMD 41 HP 216 / 216 Character Sheet Friday March 12th, 2021 6:05:57 PM " Your sentence is deferred right now. Go care for your family. If the other Knight Commanders have an Issue with this then They can take it up with Me. In fact I will accompany you and see what My Lord can do for them." " Release this soldier." Sigvar says to the remaining guards. Sigvar relays the reason for the desertion to the other Knight Commanders as well as the information that he is accompanying the soldier to see if he can help with healing the family. He was willing to commute the sentence to served but that he wanted to speak with the other KC's about first.
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 Saturday March 13th, 2021 3:25:19 AM
Tinker waits patiently for one of the KCs to give him better insight on what has happened since he had left.
To Qualtmie, Daemar nods. “Good ideas. The vision for the Fist remains the same: the Mailed Fist will be the best trained, disciplined, and effective mercenary company in the Wold, proud that we practice war so good people can have peace. But you and the other Chiefs need something more specific, and I will bring this to the other KCs.”
And he does, thinking the recommendations to the others that evening when they are less busy.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Sunday March 14th, 2021 10:20:47 PM
Seeing as Nikolai, Pompous and Anna have worked out a plan with how to deal with the Ruffians Anna settles on becoming the Farmer and then a Dire Bear when the ruffians show up. If word spreads that these farmers have Werebears among them perhaps brigands will think twice before picking on them.
She sighs, heavy is the shoulder that bears the badge, and thinks to herself that things were so much simpler when they were just Nikolai's Fist. Sure Anna was opinionated when it came to plans of attack or areas involving her expertise but she usually was ready to back his play which is what she did when he sent a broadcast for someone who could disguise themselves. She never thought at the time that she was overriding what Pompous had planned. It will certainly be interesting getting adjusted to have us all be co-equal Knight Commanders. All Anna wanted to do was the right thing and spread goodwill on behalf of her Lady and her Lady's Concert as well as accomplish the mission but now the mission was rebuilding the Fist while not disentegrating as a unit with co-equal leader powers.
She thinks back to the party deciding that they needed a command staff and how some of the Commanders are starting to look for units to take under their wing and Anna thinks she needs to do that. Plus if she was occupied in this manner maybe she wouldn't have potentially alienated Pompous the way she had with Nikolai. Having a project as a leader that was wholly her own would certainly reduce friction with the others.
Before heading out with Nikolai disguised as their farmer friend she pays a visit to the 4 members of their command staff, Xiron, Clair, De Mowbray and Qualtmie and asks, "How many members of the fist do we have that can wildshape, cast polymorph spells or use polymorph spell-like abilities? How many members of the Fist do we have that are specialized in disguise, How many members do we have who know how to use magical devices whether they are mage trained or not? I would like to build a unit and I'm essentially looking for those who have skill sets compatible with mine. Ideally they should all at least be able to assume alternate forms through some power of their own but if they are comfortable enough around a scroll or wand then that needn't discourage them from joining my unit. I guess if someone is good at using disguise kits to disguise themselves then that needn't disqualify them either as I can probably teach them to use a magic device if they have no aptitude for transformation magics themselves. I mean unless we have a large complement of druids or morphlings who have reached the point where Ma'ab has bestowed upon them the blessing of the Queen's Minions then a member of this unit doesn't need to be an animal indefinitely. I guess the specialization of this unit would be able to adapt to changing conditions and mount operations on land, sea and air, with some capibilities with respect to recon, surveilance and espionage. If we don't really have anyone who meets what I am looking for then maybe it is time to let the Wold know the Mailed Fist is looking for a few good polymorphers"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Monday March 15th, 2021 12:41:54 AM
Nikolai learns quickly that it is hard to step back from being the Thumb after so many years. It will take a bit getting used to not being a Fist when at the Citadel, and even when they go out now, it will be quite different.
To Pompous, through the link, he sends his apologies for any misconceptions. {I'm sorry I stepped on your toes. You do bring up a good point, since now we are all Knight Commanders, when we DO go out, there will be no Thumb. It's only been a day or so in this new position. We'll get things worked out.}
Nikolai takes some time for preparations to catch these extortionists by donning his Hat of Disguise, buying a small cart and a dozens baskets filled with fruits and vegetables, then wandering the neighborhood where the farmer saw them last.
While peddling his fruits and vegetables, he casually asks any other street merchants he meets if any of the guards from the citadel give street merchants any problems. "Where my Pappy sells his goods, the guards that patrol around sometimes want free samples, or else. So I came here to help my Pappy. Any such things around here?"
DM Warren - Back to Business Monday March 15th, 2021 4:14:24 PM
Sigvar takes the soldier in custody himself and sees to it that his family is on the way to recovery and that he has a couple days to spend with them. With Sigvar's gifts, he could wipe out the disease for them, but that leads back into the hospitaling discussion and how to effectively use the Fist resources.
Despite being the best fighting force for hire out there, the KCs show that they can also use softer power when necessary. Nikolai doesn't find any other likely suspects to deal with, so it looks like this incident was isolated. The farmer is very happy to both no longer be extorted by the ruffians and not be in arrears trying to pay for the Fist presence to discourage it.
Claire and Xiron are both busy with their new training regimen, but De Mowbray is able to give Anna a list of soldiers that can assume other forms. There are quite a few artists that can paint a new face for themselves or their squadmates, but finding a druid or morphling among the soldiers is a bit tougher. There are a few that are willing to learn from Anna's example though, and one wizard that has a particular enjoyment of the polymorph spell.
Whatever wonders soft power is capable of, it won't solve the problem in the Red Hills. It's up to the KCs whether to leave them to their own devices, renegotiate the contract, or give it their personal touch.
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 Monday March 15th, 2021 5:19:35 PM
Tinker is startled at Anna’s declaring recruiting priorities to the Chiefs of Staff without even mentioning it to the other KCs. When he hears about it he thinks a message to the morphing. “Anna, you need to explain you are speculating, and that your looking for changlings wasn’t an order. We need to be more deliberate when changing recruiting, training, or contract priorities. If I go to the Chiefs and countermand you, it won’t look good for either of us or the rest of the KCs.”
Prudence Gundle Monday March 15th, 2021 6:41:18 PM
Pru is intrigued by Anna's plans. Maybe she should do something similar? Build a unit of spellcasters? A group of arrogant wizards and unpredictable sorcerers, none with much experience in weapons or close combat....
You know what? Maybe not such a good idea. Pru decides against it.
"If we want to go to the Red Hills," she tells the others, "I think I'm ready to teleport us."
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Monday March 15th, 2021 8:53:50 PM It looks like Sigvar has the situation with the 'deserter' well in hand. I think we will need to have some discussion around possible future incidents, but I think that can wait until the concern in Red Hills is resolved. Pru, I am also ready to leave whenever everyone else is.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Tuesday March 16th, 2021 12:05:16 AM
Anna gets the message from Tinker.
Before she leaves his presence Anna says to De Mowbry, "I'm not use to command, forgive me...that last part about looking for a few good polymorphers was me thinking allowed. Obviously I need to discuss any change in recruiting tactics with the other members of the Knight Commander council but as for anyone we already have if you could deliver their dossiers to my room to look through at your earliest convenience I would greatly appreciate it. Keep up the great work De Mowbry"
She sends back to Tinker, Sorry, it was me thinking out loud. I countermanded my musing. We want to emphasive quality over quantity right? Well suppose we as Knight Commanders started putting together new squads of 8 built around what we know and have them start to train as units we could deploy in the future? Obviously taking other forms and using thems as a disguise or in combat are my areas of expertise so if I am to build a unit I can mentor specifically then I want them to fight like I can or similar to the way I do. I guess when you are a knight commander among subordinates you need to be careful about musing out loud"
To everyone else she sends The farmer thing seems to be a bust as far as an opportunity to get some exercise. Are we gonna head out to deal with the Orc problem in the red hills?
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Tuesday March 16th, 2021 1:18:25 AM
In a way Nikolai is glad not to find that ruffians and extortionists have set up base in their own home town. However he is not pleased that such types can come around, take a bit, and vanish. Whether this was an isolated incident of a group just passing through or not, he brings up the subject with the others when they all meet again.
"I think that building a network of informants from our own town citizens a good way to keep in touch with them and help them out best. Not a cadre of spies to spy on each other, but to keep watch for these types that roam about and extort or bully, then vanish. It will also help us if some enemy were to try to infiltrate. Michael and Tinker can take several under their tutelage to learn the basics of keeping out of sight or being inconspicuous. Food for thought while we tackle these orcs."
That night, he checks his backpack, then tries to get some shut-eye.
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 Tuesday March 16th, 2021 1:54:32 AM
Tinker sends back. ‘The Deepforge Clan has a story about a ForgeLord who, while sleeping, dreamt he was fighting werewolves. When he awoke, there was a cask of powdered silver waiting for him at the forge. His apprentices had worked all night to grind a silver tea set commissioned for an elf lord to begin negotiations. They ground it to powder because of what he said out loud.”
Tinker pauses as if thinking. “Depending on the reason for the telling, the dwarves of Deepforge have different morals of the story. Leaders must watch their tongue, dreams are sometimes just dreams, or elf tea sets are only good for grinding up.” The dwarf pauses again, then finished unnecessarily. “I’m using the first moral.”
Knight Commander Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 42 (T 16, FF 38) CMD 41 HP 216 / 216 Character Sheet Tuesday March 16th, 2021 6:15:19 AM
Sigvar feels that his healing powers, as well as the martial ones he uses far more often, were given to him by Gargul to be used. He sees that the soldier was indeed telling the truth and his family is indeed ill. SIgvar takes the opportunity to lay hands on both of the family members and cure their disease as well as fatigue and a few other things that they probably are not suffering from. He bids the soldier return to duty once his family has recovered and when the Taur returns to the Citadel he speaks to the jailor and commutes the soldiers sentence. " I am ready when you are Prudence. Let me know when and where to assemble to head out."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 35/18/32 CMD: 33 Tuesday March 16th, 2021 7:59:56 AM
Anna sends back to Tinker, "Although my former mentor was half elf, my Mithral plate was not made by elves therefore can I chose moral 3, that Elvish tea sets are only good for grinding up? Just kidding. Message received."
DM Warren - Battle at the Red Hills Tuesday March 16th, 2021 3:39:19 PM
After catching up on their recent deeds and having an all important rest, Pru gathers he might to zap them all to the Red Hills. This is pretty commonplace for most of them, but Tinker has to gather his wits after a sudden change of place.
The directions prove true, and the KCs pop into the town centre to the sounds of hammers and axes. There's smoke in the air, and people are fletching arrows and reinforcing buildings. At the moment, it seems that everyone is too busy to take proper notice of them.
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Tuesday March 16th, 2021 7:14:38 PM Looks like maybe preparing for a battle? We should probably announce ourselves so we don't alarm everyone.
Michael Wittman AC:32, T:21, FF:25(ucdodge) HP 99/141 F+14, R+23,W+15, CMB+22, CMD+31 Tuesday March 16th, 2021 8:43:37 PM
Michael appears, still after all these years, he vaguely expects to arrive as someone else. the smell Wood smoke, and pitch assault his sense of smell, axes and hammers bang with a cadence that says haste. voices raised in a serious and intense tember. before he opens his eyes he knows that this town is preparing for war. Lets see what we can do to maximize that.
He catches a person nearby and asks them a question. You! where can I find the bosses of this lash-up?
Prudence Gundle Tuesday March 16th, 2021 11:23:19 PM
For the moment, Pru just looks around, trying to get her bearings.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Wednesday March 17th, 2021 12:14:57 AM
Popping in, Nikolai reminds himself he is not a Thumb anymore. On the other hand, he knows this group well and over-debating a course of action is common. But, Michael takes a step out and 'breaks the ice', as it were, so Nikolai scans the area, taking note of the activities.
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 Wednesday March 17th, 2021 1:18:30 AM
Tinker is still smiling over Anna’s comments as he arrives for the teleport; a very uncommon sight!
The spell, instant transportation to the Red Hills, and obvious hasty preparations for defense wipe the humor away in an instant. He trusts Prudence like she were an old friend who have had years of combat experience together, but his hands still go through an automatic basic arms check to make sure everything is still there: urgrosh, crossbow, sap, lock picks, pouch, backpack, 2 arms, 2 legs, head and beard...check.
The dwarf’s bass roar calls out after Michael. “Mailed Fist Knights Commander arriving!” That should bring the senior Mailed Fist here in a hurry!
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 42/18/39 CMD: 33 d20+20=25 ; Wednesday March 17th, 2021 2:18:14 AM
Considering the people are preparing for battle when they arrive it probably wouldn't hurt to make some preparations of her own. She uses her barkskin and longstrider morphamancy SLAs on arrival and tries to figure out where the threat is coming from that everyone appears to be preparing for. Once she knows just what it is they are likely to be fighting she'll choose her initial combat form and become even more armored than she currently is.
(Perception: 25)
Active Effects: Barkskin: +5 natural AC - 170 minutes Longstrider: +10 movement speed - 17 hours
Pompous (Yves_B) AC 26/ SR 20 CMD 30, HP 170/170/ Wednesday March 17th, 2021 2:13:11 PM
Pompous falls back into his traditional role and watches for attacks and directions from the "senior KC ". Missions are not a time to be debating rank. At the end of the day, someone needs to be in command.
{ Send Message All: Pompous awaiting orders from Senior Commander.
Send Nikki: Someone needs to be in charge in the field Nikki. It should still be you.
End Message }
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Wednesday March 17th, 2021 8:57:30 PM
Trayvin looks around while waiting for the local commander to show up. Shouldn't take too long with the commotion the Commanders' appearance created.
DM Warren - Battle at the Red Hills Wednesday March 17th, 2021 9:05:47 PM sorry folks, been in meetings all day!
It's an interesting strategy, sending the smallest and usually least noticeable member of the group to be the ambassador, but Michael's ability to conceal his dangerousness makes him a pretty good choice after all.
Some of the bustling townsfolk look over and start, but they've gotten familiar with the Mailed Fist insignia over the last few weeks and the prominent badges indicate that they're here to help.
An older woman comes over to greet Michael. We appreciate you coming out here, but we still have no means to pay for a contract extension. You're welcome to a meal for your trouble, but don't expect great service. We're all a little busy, and the orcs could be back anytime.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday March 17th, 2021 9:47:40 PM
"Hmm," Pru says. "Well, I have Fly spells available. Who's up for some aerial recon?"
Knight Commander Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 42 (T 16, FF 38) CMD 41 HP 216 / 216 Character Sheet Wednesday March 17th, 2021 11:40:28 PM " Very similar to my thoughts Prudence. I can fly and I am ready if you want to take a look around." Sigvar's cloak suddenly becomes a pair of flesh and blood wings matching his hide. He continues to think out loud to the Knight Commanders. " Have we determined why the Orcs have set their sights on the town? If not it might be a good time to seek them out and speak to them about that. I know I am not invulnerable, but I am hard to kill. I wouldn't mind landing among them and talking to them if any of the townfolk know where they are. Thoughts?"
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 42/18/39 CMD: 33 Thursday March 18th, 2021 12:20:28 AM
Anna says, "I can fly as any of my 4 beast shapes or my dragon form for 17 minutes each. I can accompany anyone that chooses to fly over there and if the orcs are as occupied as the townspeople I may be able to slip among them indefinitely with my alter self SLA and learn more about them if you guys think that is prudent."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Thursday March 18th, 2021 1:26:48 AM "Pru, what we need is some aerial reconnaissance. We need to know from what directions they are going to come and give us a few more minutes of warning. No engaging at this point.
Sigvar, we'll find out their true motives when we capture one. If Anna wishes to be a dragon to go snatch one of their captains for us, fine. But otherwise we negotiate with weapons first. After all these weeks of their attacks and predations, it is too late to try to parlay until we have them beat."
To Pompous through the link {Thanks for the confidence. Soon we can have each one take turns as Thumb, though.}
Nikolai then quickly catches a townsman and holds him still for a moment. "The Mailed Fist is here to help. Who is in charge here? Go fetch him on the double!"
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 d20+14=25 ; d20+10=23 ; Thursday March 18th, 2021 2:38:07 AM
Tinker strides purposefully to the construction, looking over the works, and seeking out the foreman/woman who can only be in a couple prominent places. He provides (in his gruff no-nonsense way) introductions, questions on the situation and what is needed, and then suggestions to improve the current activity or just a strong back if that’s all that’s needed. He’ll even take off his pack and Unsling his urgrosh and crossbow in order to work better.
The dwarf isn’t worried about contracts or justification on why the Knights Commander are here; that is for someone else to explain. The decision to BE here in the first place was already made, and Tinker will make it his priority to make the decision a success and improve the Fist’s reputation.
I volunteer my bow as well for recon. If can use my celestial armor's flight ability if needed.
And, I speak orcish fluently. That may come in handy.
End Message }
Michael Wittman AC:32, T:21, FF:25(ucdodge) HP 99/141 F+14, R+23,W+15, CMB+22, CMD+31 Thursday March 18th, 2021 1:51:00 PM I'll take that fly spell Pru, I'm going to look over the fortifications, see if we can stiffen up this bucket of spit with some rocks and wood. Michael passes the convo over to folk better suited to it. Pru, Sigvar, Nikolia and Trayvin.
with the fly spell Michael rises up until he is several hundred feet above the village. he is looking for:
how the town is laid out and if there is a wall. what the villagers are doing to reinforce the defenses hills, woods, rocks, streams, lakes, or any other salient geographical features we can use close to the village. an approximate number of villagers working on the project. from this height can I see the orc horde approaching?
he puts all this information into the link so that everybody else knows of what he sees.
Knight Commander Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 42 (T 16, FF 38) CMD 41 HP 216 / 216 Character Sheet Thursday March 18th, 2021 6:40:44 PM
Sigvar's face never changes expression, but through the link he responds to Nikolai. " I would prefer to talk first. Having to beat them means any kind of negotiations are going to be at a disadvantage. For all we know a clan of giants moved in on these ors ant took their hunting grounds forcing them to expand this way or die. Or possibly a Rakshasa is forcing them to come this way. Not like we have seen that before. I don't want to send my Lord any souls he hasn't specifically asked for. I don't need your permission, I just wanted to throw this out there so we aren't killing someone without giving them a choice first. You want a fight, that's fine. I want to be sure we are fighting the right people."
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Thursday March 18th, 2021 9:18:26 PM
While the recon begins, Trayvin looks for whatever passes for a recovery area, and checks on the wounded these people may have suffered in a previous attack. From what the old woman said, orcs have attacked at least once.
Prudence Gundle Thursday March 18th, 2021 9:45:17 PM
Pru casts Fly on Michael. "Anyone else?" she asks.
"I agree with Sigvar," she says. "And I'm happy to try to talk to them. But let's go up and take a look around first."
She transforms herself into a small air elemental and goes aloft. She does not reconnoiter alone, but accompanies one of her companions.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 32 Tch 30 Ffted 29 HP 95/111 CMD 39/41(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Friday March 19th, 2021 1:19:23 AM
Nikolai responds via the link, {I certainly can't argue against your point with reference to the giants and Rakshasa. Those giants didn't register as evil, so talking to them was a first choice. So, if you don't sense evil in these orcs, I'm fully behind talking with them to negotiate some kind of peace, or at least a truce. But if you DO sense evil, be prepared. If you can, have a zone of Truth around them if they give you a chance to parlay.}
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 42/18/39 CMD: 33 Friday March 19th, 2021 3:33:02 AM
Anna says, "I'm confused am I trying to snatch one of them up or not? I mean orcs are only medium and I don't see the wisdom in potentially wasting a good combat form like a dragon on a snatch and grab. I can easily do a snatch and grab as a giant eagle or griffon and while I would be out a manticore-later, since dragon is my most powerful form I think I should save it. However if I'm not snatching one of them then I'll use a lesser form and save my more powerful magical beast forms for potential battle."
Knight Commander Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 42 (T 16, FF 38) CMD 41 HP 216 / 216 Character Sheet Friday March 19th, 2021 4:43:02 PM " No need to grab them. If we see them and can determine their opinion of us we can land and spek with them." Sigvar will fly around a bit, looking over the tactical situation, looking for defensible choke points and the like and then look for the orcs. If/when he finds them he will descend close enough, maybe under an invisibility spell from Prudence to determine their alignment.
DM Warren - Battle at the Red Hills Friday March 19th, 2021 4:58:14 PM
Several of the KCs immediately get to work planning aerial recon. Tinker sees the construction efforts and is quite impressed by the job the townies are doing. It seems that the squads that were here before had some experience doing fortifications and were able to set them on the right path.
Michael abruptly leaves his conversation to fly out and do a recon sweep. Pompous and Pru join him in the sky. They sees that the townies have pulled back into the town square area where they have built out a wall to connect the large and sturdy buildings while fortifying the outer walls and sealing off entrances. There are a few building outside that show signs of damage, but it doesn't look like any battles have come to the center of town yet, since there are still easy pickings. There is certainly a bit of movement should Anna and Sigvar watnt to execute their snatch and grab plan. There's no horde to speak of, rather a few pockets of movement in some of the buildings outside the wall and some campfires in the distance up into the foothills.
The woman huffs once when Michael flies away, and huffs again with her arm across her chest when Nikolai demands to see the "man" in charge. The man just silently points at the woman who is stalking away and obviously a bit offended. She makes her way over to Trayvin, who obviously has his priorities straight, administering to the few folk that seem to be wounded.
Thank you for your services, Sir Cleric. I'm Agnes, the Headwoman of Redvine. I wish I could welcome you properly, but things have been hectic, despite the services already rendered by the Fist.
DM Warren - Battle at the Red Hills Friday March 19th, 2021 4:59:30 PM Sigvar's post came in while I was typing - assuming you do fly down invisibly, they do indeed register as evil.
Michael Wittman AC:32, T:21, FF:25(ucdodge) HP 99/141 F+14, R+23,W+15, CMB+22, CMD+31 Friday March 19th, 2021 9:27:16 PM
Michael puts this into the link. Okay, so the enemy is in contact, the townies have pulled back to town center. we can see the orcs staging point a ways away from the town. I'd want to start any negotiations there, probably the leaders, support personnel and walking wounded to deal with, plus any reserve forces they have.
Michael thinks for a bit...
do we want to go in as a group? we would be there to support each other if the negotiations went south and taking an enemy's rear rather than facing the tip of the spear is an excellent choice tactically. roll them up from the back while they are pinned at the walls. decapitate the leadership, screw up the supply lines...whooo! I'm getting a little hot and bothered by this idea.
another choice would be for Pru, Anna, Nikolai, Trayvin, and Sigvar to go, while Pompous and I try to take some pressure off the walls. The reason I put Trayvin in is that as a Half orc he has a bit of commonality with them, and Sigvar is intimidating as hell, Orcs respect strength and if you look in a dictionary under strength you see if a drawing of Sigvar. The problem I see with this option is that we are separated and not there to support each other.
OOOO!...all of us, except Sigvar could go in invisible! Total surprise as well as attacking from the rear....
Squeeee! as a rogue few things give him more pleasure than catching an enemy in the perfect trap, he finds it's even more fun when you do it Strategically, even on a small scale such as this, or perhaps macro Tactically would be a better term....hmmmm...
Trayvin AC 33/15 touch Hp 126/161(BrianZ) Friday March 19th, 2021 9:33:58 PM Greetings Agnes. We're here to help. We are the new Commanders of the Fist, so I want to assure you that this situation has our attention. I believe most of the others are doing some scouting. Maybe you could fill us in on the current situation? I'm sure everyone will be along shortly for the update.
Trayvin will pass along through the mindlink the information he receives from Agnes
Prudence Gundle Friday March 19th, 2021 10:35:06 PM Michael, let's try to talk to them first, Pru sends back. Then, does anybody speak Orcish? Some of them speak Common, I think, but perhaps not all. Regardless, I'm willing to try.
Knight Commander Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 42 (T 16, FF 38) CMD 41 HP 216 / 216 Character Sheet Saturday March 20th, 2021 2:01:05 AM " So they are evil, I can look at them fine from over their heads and see that, invisible or not. I totally endorse starting this up in their camp. My reasons are a little different than Michael's but his points are totally valid too. I would like to keep any fighting up there out of the town."
Tinker (SteveK) AC 33 T22 F25 CMD37 HP 159/159 d20+14=20 ; d20+10=22 ; d20+22=30 ; Saturday March 20th, 2021 5:02:56 AM
Tinker nods, solid job. They don’t need his help, and getting along fine here, so the dwarf moves over to Trayvin and Headwoman Agnes. He gives brief bow and introduction. “Daemar Torvalsson, called Tinker, one of the Knights Commander of the Mailed Fist.”
The dwarf is hardly a diplomat, but sometimes gruff straightforwardness gets the job done. “This isn’t a contract, but the need to get something done right. We think we can take our payment out of the orc’s war chest, which will reduce thier ability to be a bother around here.”
He listens to Michael’s plan and Anna’s question. “I don’t speak Orc but I’m sure Trayvin does”, he thinks with a bit of a chuckle. “ if we are talking position of strength and they are clearly evil, why don’t we stick together, clean out the town first, and then arrive at the camp from a position of strength?”
Iff Agnes doesn’t want to bend Tinker’s ear, While the KCs decide what to do, Tinker walks the perimeter of the walls-and-buildings looking for weak spots and access points.
I speak fluent orc. I wouldn't bet that they'll be willing to talk howver.. not until we kill off a good percentage of them anyway.
Once they settle down a bit I can relay mind speech what they are saying to the rest of you and you can feed me info and questions.
If you want me to start turning these orcs into pin cushions just let me know. I can land and start firing.
End }
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- HP 123/123 -- 42/18/39 CMD: 33 Monday March 22nd, 2021 12:30:57 AM
Anna sends across the party line, I can speak to any humanoid, be understand and understood thanks to my lady's blessing regardless of my current form. Do I take an intimidating form for negotiations or do you want them to underestimate me?
Knight Commander Sigvar Ironhorn (David F) AC 42 (T 16, FF 38) CMD 41 HP 216 / 216 Character Sheet Monday March 22nd, 2021 4:20:12 AM " Tinker has the right Idea I think. Kill their scavengers in the town and then roll up on their camp. If they are smart they'll back down and negotiate. If not they'll all die by the sword."
DM Warren - Battle at the Red Hills Monday March 22nd, 2021 3:47:55 PM
Agnes confirms to Trayvin and Tinker that the Orcs have been raiding for a while, but none have come to test the new fortifications with the easier pickings on the outskirts of town. There was no provocation, and there have been orcs in the hills since time immemorial, but they've never had issues before, and had even traded with them on occasion. This town makes quite good wine which is much sought after in the area.
However, these orcs are confirmed of evil within and cruel intentions, and the Agents are ready to go to work. Very little subtlety is needed for the few scavenging in the town. A few arrows and well placed cantrips are enough to send them off to Lord Gargul's domain (or capture one if you like). It takes only a little bit of scouting to find their camp, which isn't exactly hidden.
Prudence Gundle Monday March 22nd, 2021 4:04:25 PM
"Right," Pru says. "Well, should we go take care of the camp today, or do people need to make preparations?"
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