DM Robert - "That way we can possible grab the initiative instead of running around a step or two behind him--or her." Tuesday May 14th, 2019 8:14:33 PM
Stoph is all about putting a stop to Crimson. But then she remembers that the party is still on a mission.
Micah knows that the party needs evidence that will hold up in court. The merchants may be too scared to act. And his brother may be in danger. Then he remembers that there was one of the books that Sir Stephan Imbry stole, and according to Imbry's diary was enough to get "C" off his back...But it was hidden.
Stock thinks the party should just start taking out the thugs threatening merchants. Whittle them down as it were.
Bartomus likes the way Stock is thinking.
Dorbin dashes through the streets.
Zanderallen wonder about visiting Lord Paragon Belkior, after all he was a former adventurer in the Crimson Shields of Hope, plus he's on the city council. Zanderallen heads down the stairs after realizing Dorbin has taken off.
Dirk? Sid?
=============== John's OOC: I am not understanding something. Torbin is out of his immediate money problems and he gave over the book. Is his angst merely worrying about his future lumber business or am I missing something? = Reply, he's caught up with his payments and payroll, but there are still payroll and expenses looming.
OOC: The missing book:-Ust Delmah by Glenn Hembree Brown leather 11 by 9. This is a one of a kind. It is a leather journal chronicle the adventures of the Crimson Shields fighting a criminal boss that styled himself Lord Diamond. It was never put into actual publication because of a City Edict. = Reply, INDEED Where would be the best place to hide a book...specifically a place that Imbry would possible frequent if he needed to get his hands on it. ---
Torbin's head whirls as the party speaks about doing things and getting things done. "Look I know this may not be my place to say, and I know that I'm surely partly responsible for the insurance racket. But I don't think you can just round up the enforcers and sweat them. The guard has tried that and I hear there's some lawsuits no pending against the guard for harassment, illegal search, and false arrest. The problem is that the merchants are still too afraid to press any charges because of fears of their own safety. I mean how can we know we arrested all of them at the same time?"
Knowledge Local 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { to know the laws, he's right, you would need to have a witness to testify, that means getting a merchant to agree to testify, or setting up a sting like operation to catch them trying to 'sell' a new insurance policy.}
Knowledge History 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { There are historically 2 options in this kind of operation. 1 - Catch some of the lower fish in the act, get them to spill on higher ups to get a lighter sentence. 2 - devise a system of tailing the criminals to find out who they are working for and where they are meeting. }
Torbin considers what he knows of the Shields and their abilities. "I guess I probably should turn evidence of what I know...If you guys can protect me and my family. Though I'm not sure how much good it will do toward actually getting any kind of conviction without more evidence."
Zanderallen looks out the door at the bottom of the steps. There he sees Pepper Plate, the spunky red headed reporter of the Weekly Herald sitting on her tush and looking up the street. She is waving a closed fist in anger. Zanderallen can just see the top of Dorbin's head as he rounds a corner.
Torbin then turns to Sid. "I know what I said earlier about partnerships. And generally that's true but it appears matters may be out of my hands. There's payroll that is going to need to be met next week. I only have half the money for that, and if I can't pay that, I'll be in arrears to my employees. I've got to find some way to get more business I'm going to have to let people go. How fast can we get this garbage collection serive going? We're going to need to have contracts either with the city.....or maybe privately with different businesses."
As it stands now you can continue with your mission to gather items, of which you've managed to get 3 so far. However, there appears to be bigger problems afoot in The Float. Where do the Shield's priorities lie? ____________________________________ OOC As it stands now, you've come up with several avenues of investigation, updated... Do you want the book descriptions added in?
2 - Check on Sir Stephan Imbry's past, you know he... a - owed back taxes b-owed money to the Gnomish Exhange (a bank) c - as well as Warrd’s House of Luck - Note Warrd's House of Luck is both a temple and a CASINO d - The journal mentions paying off gambling debts to Peerimon, and also mentions a "C" that he feels is too dangerous to try to blackmail. HOWEVER he does say that "C's" secret is in the book Ust Delmah by Glenn Hembree, and that he hid it somewhere...
5 - The missing loot...That's in The Float A - Sages' Guild: 1-bk, An Expedition to the Barrier Peaks, B - Lord Jonas Yeager: 2-bk, Pharaoh C - Lord Peerimon: 3- bk, The Oasis of the White Palm, and the painting The Drow NOTE: According to Imbry's journal/diary these books were given to Perimon to pay a gambling debt... Slave Pits of the Undercity, by David Cook; -Secrets of the Slavers Stockade, by Harold Johnson; -Assault on the Aerie of the Slave Lords, by Allen Hammack; -In the Dungeons of the Slave Lords, by Lawrence Schick, BUT, according to Sturgeus he Sold to Unger Platt in Plateau City D - Torbin Cook: 4 - bk, The Lost Tomb of Martek
In your possession:
3 painting has been recovered and returned so far.
"Too many hands weaken the steel," exclaims Micah, unintentionally quoting his father.
[b]"Stohp, you are right. We cannot do everything at once, but perhaps the recovered property is sufficient to keep Rosebud solvent for a while. Zander's suggestion may be the most efficient. The Paragon may be a useful ally both in pursuing Crimson and in approaching Lord Peerimon about the stolen goods in his possession. Whatever we do, however, for Domi's sake, let's do it together."
"Where's Dorbin? he exclaims when he processes the implication of Zanderallen's outburst.
======= Rolls in Stock's post were actually for micah Knowledge Local: 8 failure Knowledge History: 25 success
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+7=21 ; Wednesday May 15th, 2019 10:09:56 AM "Either will need to see these folks in action or the guards will to get them locked up," Bartomus said with frustrated certainty. He nodded at Torbin and watched in surprise as Zander went rushing out of the office and down the stairs. Micah's comment about weaken steel seemed to already be in play. "so, uh, do we follow, are we done here?" -- Kowledge local - 21
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Wednesday May 15th, 2019 12:03:14 PM
Doribn rushes into the sage's guild and directly up the stairs to start his search for more information.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Wednesday May 15th, 2019 7:10:41 PM
Sid nods, "We need to start now and worry about the fine details later dreams a good, but gold is practical. I obviously have business to attend to first. I'll meet you here tomorrow to go over details." Sid reaches into his bag and pulls out 500g and puts it on the table. "Here's some capital to prove I'm serious, we can talk about how much more we need to buy in for a proper partnership."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Wednesday May 15th, 2019 7:47:28 PM
Stohp face-palms. "Oh yeah, don't run off by yourself, let met run off by myself after you. Brilliant notion."
DM Robert - "That way we can possible grab the initiative instead of running around a step or two behind him--or her." Wednesday May 15th, 2019 8:21:44 PM
Stock agrees to protecting Torbin Cook and his family.
Micah theorizes that you have found and returned enough so far that Rosebud can take a back seat.
Bartomus feels frustration at the whole affair.
Doribn digs into the Sage's Library.
Sid puts his money where his mouth is, or at least on to the table.
Stohp is concerned that the party seems to be splitting up.
Zanderallen (In Zachary's defense, he had a rough day at work today.) Dirk? ------------------
Torbin is delighted with Sid's forthright manner. "Sir I thank you. I'm not the first person that tried to set up timbering in the woods, but I was at least smart enough not to cut the sentient part of the forest. Still it was a risk, The Float needs raw materials and farmland or it's not going to survive. It used to be on a different lake you know. Must be, oh, I don't know something like 15 years ago, used to be on a lake almost right next to Plateau City. Things were different then, more prosperous. Being hemmed in by these woods as stifled growth."
Knowledge local 20 or History 20 or Noble 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Indeed 10 years ago the then Lord Peerimon (not the one you currently know) set up a village to the west of the Float in an attempt to harvest the woodlands. It failed miserably. In fact the remains of that village were the ruins you found and set up as a waycamp for the rat/beastfolk before finding the Ziggurat. }
Zanderallen automatically offers a hand to the damsel to help her up. Pepper Plate brushes off her clothes. "Really that was quite rude of him. I suppose just because you are adventurers you think you've got the right to go charging about knocking people over." She blushes and then smiles at Zanderallen. "Well not all of you are rude." She quickly whips out her notebook. "I'm working on a story and need to ask you guys some questions."
Dorbin spends some Library, he will be gone for at least an hour. But here is what Dorbin finds. Highlight to display spoiler: {Many many years ago there was an an adventuring group called The Diamond Circle or The Diamond Blades, they battled some vampires on the merchant level. Then they left the city. There is some reference to a symbol of a diamond, alluding to the Lords of Diamonds group.
From your own past, Shredds and Father Arellius used a red metal medallion etched with a symbol of a diamond on each side.
The Big Float does not permit guilds, believing that such things take away from the freedoms of the citizens. Therefore, such guilds that exist are thinly disguised as clubs or individual businesses. The most prominent of these are the three distinct groups of thief organizations. These are the Rogues’ Fellowship, the Black Blades, and the Lord’s of Diamonds.
Apparently 10 years ago there was several assassinations of city leaders and the attempted assassination of the Overlord. At each assassination there was a calling card of a circle with a diamond etched on it on one side and a mock of a king of diamonds playing card but titled Lord Diamond. The culprits were caught by the Crimson Shields of Hope. There is no reference to who the culprits were or why the city council members were assassinated.}
So at this point the rest of the party needs to blow an hour. I need to know, 1, what are you going to do about Torbin and his family (1 wife 2 children in their mid teens). 2, Are you going to let Pepper Plate question you? 3, Where are you headed next?
"Miss Plate," Micah says in greeting, his warmest smile adorning his face. "I do not know what story you think we can help you with, but we are aware of something that could surely benefit from the type of exposure at which you are so capable of providing. It appears that the good people of the merchant level are being terrorized by a protection racket led by a man in red. The merchants would suffer horribly if they were to help you directly, but perhaps with your investigative skills you might uncover something that could help them and with them the entire Float."
================== Know History 18 fail Diplomacy 31 against Pepper to divert her to focus on thugs.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Wednesday May 15th, 2019 10:26:05 PM "We will protect you and your family. Any chance you could move in with us on the Fence level? When can you leave?" offers Stock as he starts looking for things they will need to take with them to HQ.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Thursday May 16th, 2019 4:38:04 PM
Dorbin stays buried in his books and cross-reference checks in the library.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Thursday May 16th, 2019 6:32:47 PM
Zander lets Micah set the reporter on the path of the criminals. He hopes Dorbin isn't getting into trouble but he's not splitting the party further
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+16=18 ; Thursday May 16th, 2019 7:27:42 PM
Sid nods, "Well now we'll make a new day my friend. One step at a time. Now, my companions are leaving me so until tomorrow. Just send a message to the Split Arrow or the the Shield's HQ is anything changes.
Sid runs out after the whomever is the last to leave.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Thursday May 16th, 2019 7:49:29 PM "We are not inviting the family of every merchant on the fence into our place." Stohp says in exasperation to Stock. "We're already full and asking everyone and their brother to uproot their entire lives to live in a glorified warehouse, even if a refurbished one, is going to make us no friends. There's way to many people involved in this for that to be at all realistic."
"Look if anyone asks you just say we came looking for the missing book, you told us you sold it, end of story. Heck even mention that you might enter business with Sid, that gives us an excuse for you to pass us messages. Basically be completely honest and just forget we mentioned the symbols to you at all. Until we're ready to move our best bet to keep everyone safe is to just pretend like nothing happened."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Thursday May 16th, 2019 8:07:05 PM
Bartomus followed along and nodded in agreement to the offer of sheltering the family in the Shield's headquarters. "Wonder if we could pay a kid or two to tell us if anyone or anything comes near the warehouse while we are gone? Be good to have some info if the folks in red come back here."
When Stoph expressed the error in this thought, "So, you would be like a double agent in effect. Hey that might work, if you were go give them a list of folks we set up for watching and guarding. That could work really really well right?"
He turned to Stohp with hopes of getting some affirmation. "So we are off to see Lord Perimon, right?"
DM Robert - "Until we're ready to move our best bet to keep everyone safe is to just pretend like nothing happened." Thursday May 16th, 2019 9:31:16 PM
Micah attempts to sic Pepper Plate on the Protection racket.
Stock asks Torbin to move into the Shields headquarters.
Dorbin works on the books.
Zander stays quiet, obviously concerned but not wanting to muddy the waters.
Sid prompts Torbin to pack up and get down to HQ.
Stohp thinks moving the Cook's to HQ would be a bad idea. And comes up with an alternative approach. Hero point for Stohp thinking outside the box, but still working with details that have occured.
Bartomus thinks that Stoph's idea bears merit.
Dirk?
____
Pepper eyes Zander and splinks her eyelashes at him. When Micah joins the group she smiles wistfully at him and sighs dreamily. "Such fine strong men, defenders of the Float, excelary symbols of Domi." Sense Motive 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { Oh boy is she trying to butter you up.}
She looks at you suddenly a gleam of determination in her eyes. "Look I know stuff is going on here, I'm an investigative reporter. You don't think I don't know some nogoodniks are putting the squeeze on merchants. I was wondering if you've seen this symbol and might know what it means."[b] She flips her notebook out and shows a drawing of a circle with a diamond shape in the center. [b]"I figure it has more significance than just marking the doors that 'curly' and the gang go to every few days. Oh I don't know if that's his real name, but how many half-orcs are there walking around the Float?" Knowledge local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Well there are a few, some of them work on the docks, that alone is not enough to be able to pick anyone up.}
Torbin nods. "Yes I think that staying here might be a good idea. I can even start advertising trash pickup services."
The party attempts to sidestep Pepper, but she stays with you as you walk. (She is waiting to see what you say but also letting you move onto your next desitnation).
After some time you come to the temple of Lord Paragon Belkior and stand before him in a small anti-chamber. Everyone feels a sense of healing and relaxing of tensions. He motions for you to sit while saying, "What can I do for you gentlemen, and lady?"
Stock (subbed by John H) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Thursday May 16th, 2019 9:57:59 PM
Stock looks is a bit uncomfortable going to see the paragon, but relaxes once in his presence. For once, he decides to let others start the conversation.
Micah sighs heavily in release as tensions are relieved. This being Zanderallen's suggestion, he pauses to allow the paladin to take the lead, ready to contribute to their cause.
======= Auto succeed on aid another check with diplomacy. Add +2
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+7=11 ; Thursday May 16th, 2019 10:25:06 PM
Bartomus walked along as Pepper is talking to the group. When she mentioned the gang leader being a half orc"A few work down on the docks, is this one from there? Any other way to describe this Curly? How often do you see him and his scuttling about?"
He continued walking and when they came to the Paragon's temple, he took a position against a wall near the door letting the others step forward and do the talking.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Friday May 17th, 2019 11:14:32 AM
Dorbin discovers a little more and runs to another room to check another book... :)
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+14=30 ; d4=3 ; d20+1=12 ; d20+17=26 ; d20+14=29 ; Saturday May 18th, 2019 1:35:42 AM
Zanderallen shakes his head at the oh so apparent attempts of Pepper to get information out of them, "Sweet talk isn't going to get you anywhere Miss Plates. You want to stir up some trouble go ask around about a Lord Crimson. Maybe you can figure it out before we do." He then waves her off and ignores any further comments or questions she makes.
Once sequestered in the chamber with Belkior Zander bows politely and takes the offered seat, his face still a little tense even with the calming presence, "Lord Belkior, it's time we talked. I apologize if this brings back any unpleasant memories but we need information to be able to protect the Float. About 15 years ago there was a crime lord using the name Lord Diamond that tried to seize power. Story goes the Crimson Shields of Hope, of whom we know you were a member, had a run in with him, and matching time lines that about when the Crimson Shields broke up. What happened with Lord Diamond and do you have any idea who Lord Crimson might be? Lord Crimson is making a play for power on the Merchant level and is marking the doors of his protection racket with a diamond. I think something happened 15 years ago and it's been covered up. There was a book titled Ust Delmah that the council banned publication of that we've been told contains Lord Crimsons secret. You know anything about that?" As Zanderallen speaks he leans forward in his chair, as he finishes the calming aura takes effect and he sits back, carefully eyeing the Paragon Lord for any reaction. --------------------------------------------- Sense Motive(Pepper): 30 Know(local): 12 Diplomacy(Belkior) 28 (26+2 Micah) Sense Motive(Belkior): 29
DM Robert - Who was Lord Diamond Saturday May 18th, 2019 8:38:30 AM
Stock hangs back and listens.
Micah lets Zander lead.
Bartomus ask's Pepper about Curly.
Dorbin has finished his research...and wonders where the others could be.
Zanderallen gives Pepper the 'Big Brush Off'. He lays it out for Belkior.
Dirk? is apparently trying out how to be stealthy.
Sid? is silent.
(I'd hate to see the Sherrif's report on the Board Activity). --------------------------
Pepper Plate tells Bartomus what she know's about Curly, large, muscled up, half-orc, with no hair, and two small tusk/teeth showing. It is pretty vague, but then how many bald half-orcs are there? At Zanderallen's brush off she tilts her nose up. "Well okay Mr. High and Mighty. I think I've got there routine established, I'll just follow them tomorrow." She walks off in a huff. Perception 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {That's right she said she has their shop visit routine figured out and she's going to be following them tomorrow.}
Belkior sit's back in his chair. "Well now, that's a pretty tall order isn't it. You see it was about 12 years ago I guess. The world has just gone topsy turvy, like it just recently did again when the Sargrassy Plain came back from...well where-ever it went. The Float was transported to its current location. We were cut off, except for the Gates. Time's were, strenuous. 'Lord Diamond' well he was actually the then Lord Peerimon. You have to remember the times. Lord Peerimon advocated quite forcefully that the surrounding forest was the Float's territory and needed to be harvested as a natural resource. The Druids in the circle (he's referring to the Float's own Druids) argued against him. He could not get the full support of the Float Council so footed the expenses himself and outfitted parties to clear the shorelines, and establish a village to start farming. The forest was less than pleased. Peerimon's efforts were a complete flop. To that end he lost a great deal of money. We later found that he blamed the Council for his financial set-backs and was then trying to stir up a party to call for new elections. Unfortunately the Undercrats are appointed not elected, and the positions of Mayor is exchanged yearly with the Underlord and the Overlord, for life, barring retirement, death, or commitment of a crime."
He pauses and takes a sip of juice brought in by and cleric, who also offered each of a you a cup.
"Lord Peerimon tried to recruit the efforts of the Diamond Lords Club to form a political party. It didn't work. Then he tried to make some opportunties through assassination. It didn't work either. By now we were on to him and he was forced to leave the city. But we didnt' realize that he'd allied with some renegade Drow and in fact had now formed his own Dark Druid Circle. They planned, well I'm not sure what they planned. However, we know they interrupted the "Entwining" ceremony of the Elven community that called for the sacrifice of elves in order to harness their spirit to help moderate the temperament of the forest. One of our member, Florin merged/sacrificed himself instead to join his spirit with the forest. After that the Crimson Shields may have sacrificed their own sense of Justice for a commitment to Vengeance."
He looks up at you. "Suffice it to say that we took care of Lord Peerimon. However, we may not have acted within the exact bounds of the law. We reported to the city council. While a great threat had been averted, because if Peerimon would have been successful the Drow would have had free reign through the forest and been able to attack the Float, it was decided that maybe not everything should be revealed. After all the young Lord Peerimon was innocent, and the council didn't want it made known that one of the City Lord's was capable of turning on the city."
He finishes his juice. "The Crimson Shields disbanded after that. As to who this new Lord Crimson is I have no idea. I've been keeping an eye on the council to make sure no one is acting up again. I have not seen anything, but I'd say that more than one lord is always playing the politics game for some increase in personal wealth or power. No one seems to be doing more than the other, and so far they are all being normal in their ways."Think of normal politicians today doing what they do.
He finishes and waits to see if there are any follow up questions.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Saturday May 18th, 2019 5:56:29 PM
Sid follows Stohp and he thoroughly has lost the thread of what's going on.
==========================
((Sorry, sudden OT and I thought I had posted, but I was remembering Thursday.))
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+12=14 ; Saturday May 18th, 2019 7:13:00 PM
As he listened to the Paragon talk, he started to frown a bit. "So, the old Lord Crimson was all about controlling the wood trade. Then he and his own shields gets put in their place. His son, what a child right at the time, is without a dad and everything is hushed up." Bartomus swung his head in a bit of disbelief and the dangling carved bone acorn tapped his horn.
"Also, a new Lord Perimon is in possession of the goods that we have to get and return." He continued talking aloud. "Anyone else think that maybe the son has grown up, discovered what daddy was doing, and thought - hey, wonder if we could build on a family tradition?"
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 d20+4=14 ; Sunday May 19th, 2019 10:29:04 AM
Micah looks at Bartomus gravely, then adds with a shudder, "The same thought occurred to me"
Then he turns to Belkior and asks, [b]"What are your thoughts on the current Lord Perrimon being Crimson? Given his position, he certainly has the means and opportunity, and vengeance of his father would certainly be a strong motive."[b] [i]Now I sound like Lukas,[i] he thinks to himself.
============= Perception Pepper 14 fail
Stock (subbed by John H) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Sunday May 19th, 2019 10:33:52 AM
Stock notices Sid's confusion and gives the elf an encouraging, but staggering slap on the back. "That's okay elf. The talkers will take care of it for us."
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=21 ; d20+2=16 ; Monday May 20th, 2019 11:30:39 AM
Dorbin dashes out of the library with his new information and runs down the levels of the float. Suddenly he stops and realizes he has no idea where the rest of the group are. He looks around where he last saw them to see if he has any thoughts or ideas where they might have gone...
OOC: Perception: 21 Wisdom?: 16
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=25 ; Monday May 20th, 2019 6:25:19 PM "I also remember from Sir Stephan's journal that he said he owed a lot of money to Lord Perimon, and Torbin mentioned owing a lot of money to Lord Perimon as well. Torbin's money was also connected to the wood industry. How would Sir Stephan been connected to Lord Perimon I wonder?" ------------------------ Perception 25
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Monday May 20th, 2019 7:16:38 PM Someone's definitely doing something. We have evidence to connect this lord Crimson to the weird plant based zombie thing in the trash and a protection racket. We just need to connect the name to an actual person, something we haven't been able to do so far."
DM Robert - "Someone's definitely doing something." Monday May 20th, 2019 8:09:46 PM
Sid tries to keep up.
Bartomus tries to get things straight in his head but comes up with thoughts of Lord Peerimon the younger following in Lord Peerimon the elders footsteps.
Micah asks Belkior about Lord Perrimon being Crimson.
Stock is content to let the talkers talk.
Dorbin dashes down to the merchant level.
Zanderallen tries to figure out all the money angles.
Stohp points out that they can connect Lord Crimson to crimes on the Trash Level, and the Protection racket on the merchant level. They just need to know who Crimson is.
Dirk???
________________
Dorbin gets to the bottom of the stairs and looks around, realizing he's not quite sure how to proceed. He spots Pepper Plate near the bottom of the stairs consulting a notebook, and remembers the last time he saw the nosy reporter was just outside Torbin Cook's place of business...oh and that he knocked her over.
- - - Belkior considers his words as he address Micah. "Well I've no evidence that he's done any wrong doing. That's not to say he couldn't be up to something. There are ways in and out of the levels. Each level has a corresponding sewer level that keeps feeding downward to the Trash level. I'm pretty sure there's probably more than one nefarious route between the levels that avoids the stairs. Of course I'm not sure how refined one might look if they resorted to such passages."
He laughs and turns to Zanderallen. I can tell you that Lord Peerimon frequents Warrd's House of Luck. He has more than the usual amount of luck there. Sir Stephan Imbry was also a 'guest' if I remember right, he was not as lucky. As to buying interests in other business, as I said his father sort of ran them close to bankruptcy. The current Lord Peerimon, Damon, is trying to rebuild the family fortune and seems to be doing a good job of it."OOC would it be easier to refer to the Current Lord Peerimon as just Damon to keep things straight?
Belkior rubs his chin and pauses to think. He turns to Stohp and says, "I'm not sure I like the idea of some criminal using the name Lord Crimson, sort of smacks of a stab at the former Crimson Shields. As to the best way to find a criminal would be to follow the henchmen back to a hideout, or catch the criminal red-handed. Though I'm not sure what sort of trap you could use to lure out this Crimson fellow."
After giving the others a chance to follow up with any further questions, Micah bows in parting, "Lord Belkior, than you for your time and your assistance. You have given us much to consider."
Once outside, he turns to Stock, "Belkior seems to favor your suggestion with the slight modification that we follow the henchman rather than, um, disable them. Then to the others he adds, "But first maybe it is time to approach Lord Peerimon." With a nod to Stohp, he explains, "It is consistent with our objective to recover the lost goods and, should he be guilty, perhaps he might slip and reveal something."
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Tuesday May 21st, 2019 8:57:50 AM "Got it, Micah. Wait...why did you tell me that in particular?" He keeps a straight face for only a moment before letting out a wheezing laugh. "Actually if we approach Peerimon, maybe that will force some hands to act against us. Otherwise we need a plan to track down some of the henchmen."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Tuesday May 21st, 2019 10:11:57 AM
Bartomus bowed at the Paragon out of respect and followed the others.
"I am on Stock's side here. I think we approach Peerimon about the numerous things that we know came his way. We might then get a response not only from Peerimon, but if Stock is right, maybe some information about who these Crimson folks are."
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Tuesday May 21st, 2019 10:16:47 AM
Sid, catching up on events says, "Wait, I don't mind acting as bait to lurch out our Lord Crimson, but are we ready for retaliation? Do we need to have Rodrigo and some of his boys reinforce anyplace? I know I'm not the only one with loved one on the Float right? And besides a frontal attack I like the idea of hunting down the henchmen and seeing where we end up. I know if we confront Peerimon and he is Crimson, then it would kick things off." Sid pauses a moment, "You know, I always thought 'Lord Crimson' would be like a minor functionary, or some second or third son that wasn't going to inherit. Someone that felt like they were being robbed of their 'True Place' of importance. I'd find it funny if it was an actual Lord of the city."
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Tuesday May 21st, 2019 7:06:36 PM
Dorbin heads over to Pepper and stumbles through words, "Sorry... C...c...crashed... running... all you okay?"
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Tuesday May 21st, 2019 7:17:48 PM "Yeah, but if he's personally visiting his minions then he's an idiot. We've yet to be able to work up the chain to whoever he is without someone along the way fighting us to the death."
DM Robert - Dirk Departs Tuesday May 21st, 2019 8:26:40 PM OOC sitting in the basement with the dogs as the storm goes over and the tornado signs go off.
Micah proposes they visit Lord Peerimon and then perhaps try to follow the henchmen carrying on the Protection Racket.
Stock thinks if Peerimon is guilt his conscious will betray him when the party goes to see him. Otherwise there is of course the henchmen.
Bartomus is all about visiting Peerimon.
Sid worries about possible retaliation.
Dorbin tries to apologize to Pepper.
Stohp doubts Peerimon will actually visit his minions.
-------------------
With Stohp's comment the party pauses to consider their past. Knowledge local 10 or Knowledge History or Intelligence 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { You know that may not be true Shredds at least indicated that he had direct contact with Crimson as his boss. That being said though, nothing means that Crimson didn't see his henchmen while in his super villain outfit, i.e. the crimson cloak and face mask.}
The party stands milling about but starts to head to Lord Peerimon's house. They come to it and see a two story mansion, with a third story probably hidden by the high, deeply sloped roof. In fact you see what may be an iron wrought fend along the top of the roof, there are two pillars in front supporting a large overhanging balcony and more pillars above the balcony forming several archways on the second floor. (Okay, think Tara from Gone with the Wind.)
There is nothing in the way of a yard, but after all this is the Float, space is a premium.
It is now about 4 pm.
- - - Pepper gives a glare at Dorbin. "Hurmph." She consults her notebook. Behind her Dorbin spots Dirk peering over her shoulder silently reading her notebook. She flips her notebook shut and gives Dorbin the eye again. "You really need to work on your manners. If you weren't heroes rushing about to save someone people might take offense. Your companions are not much better right now. Here I have information on people being forced to give money to be protected from violence from the very people they are paying and your lot is more concerned with heading upstairs to see the high priest of Alemi on the gold level."
She turns her back to you and struts off. Knowledge Local 10 or History 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {You do recall that the party was talking about visiting Belkior but also visiting Lord Peerimon because of the stolen goods.} Perception 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Pepper is deliberately sashaying away to try and draw your attention.}
Dirk walks over to Dorbin. "Hey Dorbin, I've received a message from the bard's college in Plateau City. They are offering me a one semester grant to study. So I'm going to have to head out for awhile." He takes a piece of paper out and writes on it briefly. "I saw some of Pepper's notebook. She apparently has been trying to track the enforcers. There is a note about the guard doing the same thing and failing. After every pick up the guys walk down the road a bit turn the corner and then dissappear. Might be something to have Micah ask his brother about. Anyway there are two pickup locations and times." The note he hands Dorbin says 'O'Rullies Pharmacy 11am' and 'Cinnamon's Hot Crossed 2pm'.
Dirk then turns and tries to hide a tear in his eye. Then marches off toward the gate.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Tuesday May 21st, 2019 9:33:34 PM
Zanderallen likes the plan of confronting Lord Peerimon the younger and goes along with the party to his house.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+7=11 ; d20+12=17 ; Tuesday May 21st, 2019 10:14:56 PM
Bartomus looked at the house and its pillars. [b]"So, do we just walk up to the door and knock? I guess that makes more sense than yelling at the house, throw a rock at the door?"
He looked at Zander and Micah for an answer as he shrugged in their general direction.
Knowledege local -11; Perception 17---but the latter seems to be for Dirk or Dorbin
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+3=8 ; Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 9:33:20 AM "Wait, Bart, you want me to throw a rock?" Stock takes a moment to look for something suitable..and then realizes that it probably isn't the best course after all. "OK, Micah, Z, lead the way. You guys do the talking. I'll be watching."
======= Knowledge Local 8
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 d20+1=12 ; d20+5=8 ; d20+4=8 ; Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 1:04:07 PM "What? Wait, Dirk!" exclaims Micah when he realizes the bard is leaving. He jogs after him, not very quickly in his armor, and embraces him once he catches up.
"Take care of yourself. Keep and touch and I look forward to seeing you back," he adds somberly as he watches him depart.
After some time, he focuses on the information in the note. "Well, at least we know where to start when we are ready for that step.
He pauses a moment to consider their approach to Lord Peerimon, then shares his thoughts, "Although Peerimon seems to have means, motive, and opportunity, we have no evidence. He is also a very legitimately powerful person, so we must tread carefully. I propose we proceed as if we do not suspect a thing and ask for the stolen goods, just as we have had with the others. If he is innocent, then we have not maligned an innocent man. If he is guilty, then he might reveal something, but he might think we are not on his trail."
====== Knowledge Local 12 vs 10 success Knowledge History vs 10 Fail Perception 8 vs 10 fail
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+1=10 ; Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 4:23:11 PM
Zanderallen wishes Dirk the best of luck on this next step of his journey and sends him off with an embrace.
"I agree Micah, until we have evidence Lord Peerimon is an unfortunate victim of poor business dealings regarding stolen property." With that he marches up to the door and knocks loudly, if someone answers he states, "Silver Shields adventuring party. We need to talk to Lord Peerimon on business. Shouldn't take but 10 minutes of his time." --------------- Know(local): 10
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+12=29 ; d20+8=15 ; Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 6:47:13 PM
Dorbin takes the note from Dirk and watches him go. He calls out, "Oh, I bet that will be interesting, good luck in the college!"
He thinks for a moment and figures the group might be headed off to see Lord P. As he gets ready to head after them, he spots Pepper walking away and she clearly has his attention. He feels a strong blush rush to his face and looks around to see if anyone else can see. He tries to call after her, quite flummoxed, "I... uh... the protection violence..." He continues to stammer and with a quick glance in the direction of Lord P's, he follows after her...
OOC: Knowledge, history: 29 Perception: 15
DM Robert - "We need to talk to Lord Peerimon on business." Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 8:07:07 PM
Bartomus wonders at the best approach.
Stock suggests Micah or Zanderallen take the lead.
Micah advises wariness but straightforwardness in approaching Lord Peerimon.
Zanderallen goes up and knocks on the door.
Dorbin rejoins the party. Pepper was on the Merchant level, she is not on the Gold Level.
Sid....?
----
The party is rejoined and Zanderallen goes to knock on the door. However, he does see a nice brass door knocker and decides to use that as he announces the group. After a very short wait the red wood door swings open. "Yeesss." The butler draws out his query as if one was addressing persons that dare knock on the front door and not the service entrance.
Zander proclaims "Silver Shields adventuring party. We need to talk to Lord Peerimon on business. Shouldn't take but 10 minutes of his time."
"Hmm. Very well if you will step this way I will see if Lord Peerimon can make time to see you." The butler opens the door and you see a grand entrance with plush red carpeting and a T branching grand staircase in the back of the entrance hall. He takes you to your right and opens a door into a salon style sitting room. There are numerous chairs, some small end tables, and a painting on the wall opposite the window. "Please wait here." The butler leaves and you are left alone in the room.
Appraise 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {The furniture is well made and luxurious. The seat cushions are soft and filled with some substance that gives but also provides support.}
The painting is immense 5 foot high by 8 feet across. It depicts the Float being attacked by vines from the sea and pulled 30% off center. You can clearly see some hero types trying to fight the vines and the dark figure in the clouds in the background. Knowledge History 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { The picture represents valiant heroes who fought the massive lake-vines raised by the Fey King to swamp the Float during the events of the Dark Fae Rising. (especially showing the Float cantilevered 30 degrees off true as the vines try to tip over the city)}
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 9:10:42 PM
Stohp waits patiently, looking at the furniture and painting. Which one was it they were after again here...?
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+3=14 ; Thursday May 23rd, 2019 12:40:17 AM "Well, that was a lot easier than I guess I realized," Bartomus said as they waited for the Lord of the Manor to meet with them. He looked about and nodded in approval of the decore. He turned himself to where he stood looking at the wall sized painting. The fact that it showed an attack on the Float and the Float shifting off of center was both intriguing and frightening."Did this uh, actually, happen?"
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Thursday May 23rd, 2019 9:20:01 AM
Stock finds his way to one of the comfotable chairs and then looks up at the painting. "No idea. Looks exciting though."
He then looks down and notices some flaking blood and mud from one of their trips caking the side of his armor. He takes a rough finger nail and scrapes it onto the floor.
"So I'll just sit here. If you guys are playing Good City Guard and feel like you want me to play Bad City Guard, just mention my name or something."
He then goes back to picking clean his armor and dropping the remnants where he sits.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Thursday May 23rd, 2019 10:20:04 AM
As Dorbin joins with the group, he hurriedly and quietly whispers all he has found in the library about the history of the lord diamond.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Thursday May 23rd, 2019 6:32:16 PM "According to the records, Lord Peerimon purchased a painting "The Drow", and a book, "The Oasis of the White Palm"." Zanderallen looks around at the room.
Micah listens carefully as Dorbin shares his new found knowledge, nodding in remembrance as he mentions Shredds and Aurelius.
==================== FYI: Dorbin's information is contained in the spoiler text from the May 15 DM post
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+8=24 ; Thursday May 23rd, 2019 7:51:25 PM
Sid studies the scene of the Float and nods as he listens to Dorbin.
((Sorry! My week was disrupted. I almost forgot!))
DM Robert - "Well, that was a lot easier than I guess I realized," Thursday May 23rd, 2019 8:07:56 PM OOC Well I see some d20 rolls but only one person bothered to say what they are for.
Stohp asks what they are specifically looking for here.
Bartomus wonders if the painting on the wall is fiction or nonfiction.
Stock likes the painting and then sits down to and becomes uncouth. Hero point to Stock for making the DM laugh.
Dorbin tells what he learned in the Sage's Guild. TO WIT: Many many years ago there was an an adventuring group called The Diamond Circle or The Diamond Blades, they battled some vampires on the merchant level. Then they left the city. There is some reference to a symbol of a diamond, alluding to the Lords of Diamonds group. Apparently 10 years ago there was several assassinations of city leaders and the attempted assassination of the Overlord. At each assassination there was a calling card of a circle with a diamond etched on it on one side and a mock of a king of diamonds playing card but titled Lord Diamond. The culprits were caught by the Crimson Shields of Hope. There is no reference to who the culprits were or why the city council members were assassinated.
The Big Float does not permit guilds, believing that such things take away from the freedoms of the citizens. Therefore, such guilds that exist are thinly disguised as clubs or individual businesses. The most prominent of these are the three distinct groups of thief organizations. These are the Rogues’ Fellowship, the Black Blades, and the Lord’s of Diamonds.
From your own past, Shredds and Father Arellius used a red metal medallion etched with a symbol of a diamond on each side.
Zanderallen answers Stohp. "According to the records, Lord Peerimon purchased a painting "The Drow", and a book, "The Oasis of the White Palm"." These were bought from the merchant/fence Jennings “Spider” Sturgeus from his consignment shop Sturgeus Selling: ALSO, you have Imbry's journal which mentions paying off gambling debts to Peerimon, specifically with the books Slave Pits of the Undercity, by David Cook; -Secrets of the Slavers Stockade, by Harold Johnson; -Assault on the Aerie of the Slave Lords, by Allen Hammack; -In the Dungeons of the Slave Lords, by Lawrence Schick. BUT, according to Sturgeus he sold those 4 books to Unger Platt in Plateau City.
Micah listens carefully as Dorbin shares his new found knowledge, nodding in remembrance as he mentions Shredds and Aurelius.
Sid recognizes the scene depicted in the painting as a true event and tells everyone that really happened.
====================
Lord Peerimon enters the room from a door opposite the one you came through, and nods to you. He is dressed smartly in a black dinner jacket, white shirt, and black pants. He has a black bow tie on. "Gentelmen and lady, to what do I owe the pleasure of your company?" He moves over to the wall near him (that would be an interior wall, but not the back wall where the painting is hanging) and presses something. The wall slides back revealing a well appointed liquor cabinet. "Would you care for something...brandy, port, perhaps a nice sherry?"
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Friday May 24th, 2019 9:16:24 AM
Stock grumbles something about not drinking on the job and then goes silent. He begins tapping his foot and staring at Micah, Zanderallen and Stohp, imploring them to speak up so he isn't the one to break the ice.
He then folds his arms and tries to look tough.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Friday May 24th, 2019 10:47:53 AM
Bartomus turned from the painting to see the Lord of the Manor. He seemed to be a man of distinction what with his crisp attair and setting of the room. Bartomus waived off any drink with a "No thank you, sir."
He glanced back at the painting and then back at the Shields. Then he looked at the Lord and then at Zander.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+17=30 ; d20+14=27 ; Friday May 24th, 2019 1:06:01 PM
Zanderallen bows politely and declines the offer putting on his best charm and tact, "Lord Peerimon, your offer is most generous but sadly we are here on business. And somewhat unfortunate business. A friend of ours, Miss Daneel of Rosebud publishing, found that many books and paintings were stolen by her late fiance's partner and sold off. We have been tracking them down and I'm sure by no fault or knowledge two possibly three of these items we believe came to your possession. A painting called The Drow and a book titled The Oasis of the White Palm and then possibly a book titled Ust Delmah. I truly hate to be the bearer of such bad news but we have come to return them to their lawful owner. Zander's sadness at reclaiming the items is not fake, as he doesn't like taking things they may have purchased in good faith. But that doesn't stop him from watching Peerimon very closely, especially when he mentions Ust Delmah. ----------------------------- Diplomacy 30 Sense Motive 27
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Friday May 24th, 2019 1:08:53 PM
Zach, please check your email and contact me please. ;) DMs may delete this once Zach says he has seen it.
Micah suppresses a smile as the silver tongue goes into action. He too is watching Lord Peerimon carefully for any reaction to Zanderallen's words.
Before the Lord can reply he adds, similarly gravely, "Unfortunately, I must add to Zanderallen's list. We have also been told that you may also possess the works, Slave Pits of the Undercity, Secrets of the Slavers Stockade, Assault on the Aerie of the Slave Lords, and In the Dungeons of the Slave Lords as well. He bows as he finishes, acknowledging the unpleasantness of his information.
============ Diplomacy: >10 to aid Zanderallen: Make that a +32 Sense Motive: 25
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20=20 ; Friday May 24th, 2019 6:44:09 PM
Dorbin smiles and nods as Zander starts speaking and compliments Lord P on his dinner jacket.
OOC: Diplomacy to aid another: natural 20.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+12=15 ; Saturday May 25th, 2019 8:40:15 AM
Sid walks close to the door and listens to his friends. Realizing recently that he really isn't good at talking, he keeps an eye open to make sure that he can't run and he can block the door if others try to come in.
DM Robert - Lord P (I wonder if the kids call him that?) Saturday May 25th, 2019 9:59:49 AM
Stock grumbles tries to look tough.
Bartomus declines to drink
Zanderallen ask about a painting called The Drow and a book titled The Oasis of the White Palm and then possibly a book titled Ust Delmah.
Micah adds a query about, the works, Slave Pits of the Undercity, Secrets of the Slavers Stockade, Assault on the Aerie of the Slave Lords, and In the Dungeons of the Slave Lords.
Dorbin smiles and tries to help out.
Sid walks around to try and block the far door.
=============
Peerimon arches an eyebrow and purses his lips. "Hmm, well I do have a painting featuring some Drow on it that I bought at a shop on merchant level. I believe I acquired The Oasis of the White Palm there as well. I can't remember the name of the shop, but I believe it was a bit off the beaten path."
He pauses as he eyes Sid moving around. "Would you care for something?" He indicates the liquor cabinet and then goes over and pours himself a brandy. He turns back to Zanderallen, "I don't seem to recall a book called Erst Dalmah. What language is that in?"
He takes a small drink of Brandy. "Well actually I did once have the Slave Lord series, that is the books. Slave Pits of the Undercity, Secrets of the Slavers Stockade, Assault on the Aerie of the Slave Lords, and In the Dungeons of the Slave Lords. The books were given to me by Stephen Imbry to pay off a debt he owed. I guess I should have been more suspicious of where he got them. Sadly my house was burglarized a few months back and the thieves took off with them and some other articles."
Knowledge Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You could always check his story with the local 'police'.}
He takes another sip of his drink and then snaps his fingers. "Say do you think any of my other stolen items might be at that place I bought those items you claimed were stolen?"
Diplomacy 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { The question is what were the other 'articles' of his that were stolen."}
Knowledge Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { You did find Sturgess's books on what stolen goods were sold to where. Maybe if you ask the guard nicely they will let you look at them again.}
He goes to a corner wall and pulls a small rope that was hanging from the ceiling. The butler enters the door that Peerimon came from to find Sid partially blocking the door. The butler gives Sid the eye of indignation and then addresses Lord Peerimon. "You rang sir?"
"Yes Smidely, please fetch the book, The Oasis of the White Palm from the library and that painting of the Drow from the game room." The butler nods and departs.
He turns back to you. "Was there anything else?"
He seems pleased by most of your manners (diplomacy). You can't get a feel for him one way or the other, (sense motive) which is slightly unusual in your experiences. Before you've been able to get a good sense whether someone was being honest with you or trying to dissemble. Perhaps it's a sign of being a really good poker player.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+15=35 ; d20+15=29 ; d20+8=23 ; d20+10=30 ; Sunday May 26th, 2019 8:33:15 AM "I believe my companion Micah gave you the full list." Stohp says, understanding what he's asking (Diplomacy 23). She's aware they can go to the guards for more information if needed (know local 35 & 29) and she eyes the man, trying to get a read on him (sense motive 30 - cause I'm contrary :P)
It concerns Micah that Lord Peerimon claims that the Slave Pit books were stolen, contradicting the information they received from Sturgeous who claims they were sold to Unger Platt in Plateau City. What troubles him further, however, is that he is totally unable to get a read on this man.
Hiding his concerns, he responds with a bow, "Lord Peerimon, your graciousness in returning the items you still have is commendable. Perhaps we could help you recover your property that was taken along with the books. What can you tell us about the burglary and the other items that were stolen?"
=================== Diplomacy 25 vs DC 20: Success
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+7=21 ; d20-1=9 ; d20+7=11 ; Sunday May 26th, 2019 9:32:26 PM
Bartomus shrugged as the man talked and nodded in agreement with Stohp. But, when he mentioned going back to where they had already come from, he gave the man an odd, puzzled look. Weren't we already there?"
His question was more of a talking aloud without any real tone to it and he shrugged and listened. Micah and Stohp talk to the guy. He was a bit surprised when he called his butler asking him to bring the book and painting. He shrugged and smiled.
KnL 21; D 9; KnL 11
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+3=9 ; d20+1=7 ; d20+3=16 ; Monday May 27th, 2019 8:13:43 AM "Burglarized? That's a shame. Have you heard of a lot of that kind of activity lately? I tell you things aren't quite as safe around here as they used to be. I mean just today we were accosted by some thugs. Ha! Smashed 'em."
======== Knowledge Local 9 Diplomacy 7 Knowledge Local 16
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20=12 ; Monday May 27th, 2019 4:45:24 PM
Dorbin listens closely and when Stock starts barging around, he tries to step in front of him and make the party look more respectable.
OOC: Aid another, diplomacy: 12
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+17=33 ; Monday May 27th, 2019 7:28:39 PM
Taking every in stride Zanderallen bows again, "Your return of the items is most gracious, I believe Erst Delmah to be in common though I really couldn't say for sure, it was just listed with some of the other items. The whole series stolen right out of your manor. How terrible! I do believe I might have seen one of those titles in Sturgeus' ledger. You might wish to check with the guards of the Gold level, they are following up on some of the other leads. Did any other items go missing? I'm trying to think back to his shop." ------------------------------ Diplomacy 33
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+1=15 ; Monday May 27th, 2019 7:43:14 PM
Sid, examining the general house layout, bows slightly to the lord. "I greatly appreciate it, but we're not quite at the end of our day yet and I am not sure how many more stops we'll have to make today."
Diplomacy(For politeness): 15 ((Hey, at least I'm trying ^_^))
DM Robert - "I tell you things aren't quite as safe around here as they used to be." Monday May 27th, 2019 8:29:58 PM
Stohp continues to study Lord Peerimon.
Micah tries to find out what was stolen.
Bartomus is slightly puzzled but thinks all is going well.
Stock laments the crime in the city and brags about smashing some thugs.
Dorbin downplays Stock's boasting.
Zanderallen also probes about what was stolen. Zanderallen deliberately copies the way that Peerimon pronounced the one book... Perception 20 or Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {The actual title is Ust Delmah, Zanderallen pronounced it that way at first, Lord Peerimon responded with Erst Dalmah, which was meant as a subtle mispronouncing. Did he do this on purpose? He seems quite sophisticated and intelligent, how hard is to mimic back a book title?}
Sid declines to drink. ==============
Lord Peerimon purses his lips. "Well there were some golden candelabras, a silvered tri-bladed dagger with some unusual markings on the hilt. I was studying that trying to make out where it was from. Archeology is something of a hobby for me. There was a medium sized crystal ball, well not crystal it was sort of a turquoise or jade color, depends on which way you held it in the light. The ball had a golden worked casing around it allowing it to be held without actually touching the crystal. Oh and course several old gold coins. I'm a bit of a collector of ancient history and what better way than old coins.
Stohp has noticed that Lord Peerimon appears to have a habit of pursing his lips and pausing before launching into explanations of certain things.
The dagger somehow seems interesting... Knowledge Arcane 20 or Knowledge History 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Basically imagine a Phurba dagger, if you're curious look it up on Google. These are rare and often magical daggers, mostly used by practicers of arcane magic.} Knowledge Local 15 or Linguistics 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You don't recall any description of mention of that in Sturges's books.}
And that crystal ball seems interesting... Knowledge Arcane 25 or Knowledge History 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { Begora, that sounds like an orb of Draconkind. Of course there's no way to be absolutely sure.} Knowledge Local 15 or Linguistics 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You don't recall any description of mention of that in Sturges's books.}
The butler returns to the room rather awkwardly. He hands the book to Peerimon who then turns and hands it to you while motioning to the butler to hand over the painting. The painting is about 3 foot by 3 foot. Examining them you can be assured that these are the genuine articles you're looking for.
Lord Peerimon smiles at you and bows. "Well if you find any of my stolen items please let me know, or you can return them in person." Sense Motive 35 Highlight to display spoiler: {That smile holds no humor.}
The butler crosses the room to the other door and holds it open for you....
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+7=20 ; d20+7=23 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 12:27:52 AM "Don't recall any dagger or crystal ball being missing," Bartomus shrugged as the man kept talking. When the butler returned with the book and painting, he stepped over and took the painting from the man. It was less awkward, but still slightly awkward, for the taur to hold it.
KnL 20; Knl 23
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+17=24 ; d20+17=22 ; d20+17=30 ; d20+17=30 ; d20+2=22 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 1:40:47 PM
Dorbin nods thoughtfully and says, "Indeed. That sounds like a phurba dagger and perhaps an incredible find, and orb of dragons. That would indeed be something to have stolen."
OOC: Knowledge, Arcane, DC 20: 24 Success to know dagger Knowledge, Local, DC 15: 22 Success to know about dagger mention Knowledge, Arcane, DC 25: 30 Success to know crystal ball Knowledge, Local, DC 15: 30 Success to know about crystal ball Sense Motive, DC 35: 22 :)
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+14=17 ; d20+5=25 ; d20+14=32 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 4:51:23 PM
Zanderallen notes the mispronouncing of the book, he copied Peerimon to lead him in believing they were clueless as to it's nature. He ponders if Peerimon is trying to hide it so as not to lead people to finding our what it contains. "We shall be sure to keep an eye open for them Lord Peerimon. If we find them we will return them in person, we've already had one group of thieves attack us for a different painting we were returning. We have taken far too much of your time, thank you again for returning these items. Their return might not bring back Lord Arlen, but it will allow his fiance to keep his publishing house open. Good day."
Zander waits for Peerimon to dismiss them and then leads the Shields out with the recovered items. --------------------------------- Sense Motive 17/Perception 25 succeeds vs. DC 20
Sense Motive 32 fails versus 35.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+13=14 ; d20+13=24 ; d20+10=16 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 6:24:25 PM
Stohp also notes that the artifacts weren't listed (linguistics 14, fail, 24, success). She eyes the lord, wondering if he's reported stolen things he didn't have so as to get the party to secure them for him (sense motive 16).
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+3=4 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 6:27:23 PM "Likewise to what Z was saying, please feel free to contact us again in the future if you run into more trouble. We are always willing to help any of the citizens of the Float."
Stock begins making his way to the door. In the meantime, all of what Dorbin says goes right over his head...again.
======= Knowledge Local 4
DM Robert - "Good day." Tuesday May 28th, 2019 8:08:18 PM
Bartomus takes the painting.
Dorbin blurts out information on Peerimon's stolen items.
Zanderallen thanks Peerimon and says they will keep an eye open for his items and herds the party out the door.
Stohp gives Lord Peerimon the eye.
Stock heads out the door.
Micah...remains silent....
=============
"Indeed?" Peerimon asks of Dorbin's analysis. "That certainly is interesting." Perception 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {You see Peerimon's one eyebrow arch upward at Dorbin's statement.} Sense Motive 35 Highlight to display spoiler: {You're pretty sure you've gotten his attention, and that he was not surprised to know what those items were.}
The party exists the house with the painting and the book in hand. Where to now? Lord Jonas Yeager's has the book Pharaoh. Knowledge Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {His house is about 20 minutes walk from here. It is in the better part of the Gold level.}
Or do you head back down the stairs to the merchant level to deliver what you have now?
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 d20+18=35 ; d20+5=20 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+18=24 ; d20+18=37 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 10:27:34 PM OOC: Hmmmm. I posted, but I must not have hit submit or it didn't upload properly. My rolls are still there from yesterday. Too tired to try to repeat it.
After the Shields leave, Micah tells the others, "Did you notice that Lord Peerimon took note that Dorbin knew the identity of those items, but appeared to already know their identity?"
"Other than that, he did not reveal much more than that I would not want to play him in poker."
"As much as I would like to save the steps and stop by Lord Yeager while we are near, I think we are best to rid ourselves of these valuables as quickly as we can."?
=========== Last roll is new for this post. Sense Motive 37 vs DC 35
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+7=13 ; Wednesday May 29th, 2019 12:13:22 AM "Dorbin, how did you know that stuff? Wasn't on the list was it?" Bartomus asked as they headed back out amongst people. He looked at Micah and agreed with the idea of delivering the valuables first, then going on to the next person on the list. "Don't want to be trying to juggle too many of these things."
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=13 ; Wednesday May 29th, 2019 11:43:15 AM
As they depart, Dorbin does not notice Lord P, but he takes note of what Micah says. He replies to Bart, "Indeed, no, those items were not on the list. Clearly something is going on here. I wonder if we are perhaps being used or taken advantage of... But yes, let's return these items to HQ before we move on."
OOC: Perception vs DC 25: 13 failure to notice Lord P
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=12 ; d20+14=16 ; d20+1=11 ; Wednesday May 29th, 2019 4:53:47 PM "Keep your eyes open everyone, for whatever reason it seems like Crimson is targeting these valuables. I can only guess it is to antagonize us, we have been a thorn in his side for some time now. As to Lord Peerimon hiding the exact identity of the items he mentioned as stolen I wouldn't think too much of it. For one who has been working on rebuilding the family fortune those are immensely valuable items. And whatever reputation we may have adventurers as a whole are often regarded as treasure hunters. He might think it better if we didn't know the value of what he possessed. After we return these items we can visit Lord Yeager and decide on our next steps towards finding Crimson or rounding up his thugs." ---------------------------- Perception 12 Sense Motive 16 Know (local) 11
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Wednesday May 29th, 2019 7:29:44 PM
Stock shakes his head but remains otherwise silent. [b]I will lead the way as always.[b]
[i]Too many things going on that I can’t follow. Just give me some thing to smash.[i]
Stock chuckles and then let’s out a belly laugh.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Wednesday May 29th, 2019 7:45:52 PM
"Man I could use a drink." Sighing Sid laughs with Stock, "I know right! Just give me a bow to fire or a lock to pick and leave the machinations to those with more free time than sense."
DM Robert - " Just give me some thing to smash." Wednesday May 29th, 2019 8:11:51 PM
Micah thinks it would be best to drop off their finds at the publishing house.
Bartomus agrees with the idea of dropping things off.
Dorbin thinks something is going on, he's just not sure what it is.
Zanderallen thinks the party should keep their eyes open because Crimson is targeting the valuables.
Stock chuckles and then let’s out a belly laugh as he wishes for things to smash.
Sid agrees with Stock.
Stohp stays quiet.
===========
The party heads toward the stairway. Editors note, the geometry and layout of the Float is somewhat vague on where the stairs are by level, sometimes not even having an indication of any. So unless and until the powers that be say otherwise I'm putting a staircase running outside the north tower. There are approximately 6 stories between each level, so 60 feet. That means the stair case will wrap around the tower over the water at some points. There is going to be a landing at each corner. Best idea I could come up with. I'm going to say it's 15 feet wide but people are going up and down so sometimes things could get tight depending on the load.
It's between 6:30 and 7 pm. Traffic is light.
How about a marching order?
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 Wednesday May 29th, 2019 11:09:40 PM "It is not paranoia if someone really is out to get you," says Micah in response to Zanderallen.
"These stairs would be a good place for an ambush. Zanderallen, you should join Stock in the lead with Sid right behind you, looking for trouble. Stohp and Bart, with your reach you would be good in the next rank. Then Dorbin and I can guard the rear."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Thursday May 30th, 2019 8:37:40 AM
Stohp nods and takes her position (sorry for poor posting, haven't been sleeping well. Will try to do better).
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=27 ; Thursday May 30th, 2019 11:48:20 AM
Dorbin looks around nervously to see if he spots anyone watching the group (perception: 27) as they head down the stairs.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+13=32 ; Thursday May 30th, 2019 12:34:59 PM
Stock leads the way through the town, doing his best to avoid knocking anybody over as he bulls ahead. "I know we didn't get everything we thought form Peerimon but at least we got something." Then in a lower voice, "And if he has some connection to Crimson, maybe it will lure out some thugs."
He frees his flail from its holder and keeps a steady eye out for trouble.
====== Perception 32
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=16 ; Thursday May 30th, 2019 5:07:01 PM "Aye Micah", Zander takes a spot in the lead, eyes and ears open. He watches the passersby closely, looking for suspicious persons or a sudden lack of foot traffic. People had a way of disappearing when there was trouble around, almost a 6th sense. -------------------------- Perception 16
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 22/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Thursday May 30th, 2019 5:53:21 PM "Ok, sure, sure, remember though, trying to balance a painting here. So, we need to protect the things we just picked up." Bartomus said in agreement with Micah's suggested order. He was really hoping that they could just drop these items off and then maybe find something to eat and drink as a well earned reward. It was a nice, pleasant hope he maintained.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+12=31 ; Thursday May 30th, 2019 6:46:08 PM
"Let's see, too cramped Daffyd, so Holly it is," Sid makes sure his Shortsword of Subtly is easy moving and at the ready. "Ok, ok, ok ok," he mutters as he looks around behind Stock.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Thursday May 30th, 2019 7:06:51 PM
Stohp notes the rest of the party prepping for a fight. "You guys seem ready for a fight. Did something happen?" (remind me, did anyone inform Stohp and the others you were attacked?)
DM Robert - "So, we need to protect the things we just picked up." Thursday May 30th, 2019 8:38:14 PM
Micah sets a marching order.in response to Zanderallen. (except he put the two size large people side by side on a 15 foot walkway).
Stohp ambles along. (A fight has not started yet, but the party is reading the warning signs, especially when the DM posts and asks for a marching order.)
Dorbin tries to keep an eye out.
Stock frees his flail from its holder and keeps a steady eye out for trouble.
Zanderallen keeps an eye out for suspicious persons.
Bartomus tries to be ready but has to hold onto the paintings, and wonders about food again.
Sid loosens his sword and starts looking around. -------- You are walking down the wide steps (the steps being 10 feet wide to accommodate all sizes and strides) Stock and Sid notice 6 people on the landing below, they appear to be playing some sort of dice game. Also they appear young, late teens maybe. As you come down you notice that they are not really making that much of an effort to play dice, and then you notice their rapiers and shortbows.
Micah notices that another group of young people have been coming down the stairs behind them. At first glance they would appear to be a group of young noble types out for a night on the town. They also are probably in their late teens. However, his keen eye spots at least the two in front having saps out in their hands.
Ahead of you one of the youths does a head flick to move long dark hair out of his eyes. "Good Evening. I'm afraid it's after 6 and there is now a toll to walk these stairs."
When Micah realizes what is about the happen, he sighs in resignation.
K did that so much better," thinks Micah as the boy flips his hair.
He turns to face the speaker, clearly presenting his anvil and hammer of Domi, along with his WLA badge. Calmly and without any sign of concern, he responds, "Oh, that is the way it works here. Just how much is toll? If it is reasonable enough, there won't have to be any bloodshed."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Friday May 31st, 2019 8:36:08 AM
Stohp knows she should just stay quiet and let Micah try to resolve things peacefully but she just can't help herself. "Seriously? This is your concept of a good idea? You pick the most heavily armed and armored group you can to try to hold up while also either failing to recognize us or so arrogant as to not care that we're the most celebrated group of adventurers currently occupying the city? Gods I thought by this point random thugs would know better, but I guess the world is full of idiots. This is almost as silly as when that Shreds guy decided to pick a fight with us and an entire temple of priests at the same time."
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+12=21 ; Friday May 31st, 2019 9:47:22 AM "HA Stohp! Good one! Remember how I busted through a wall and clobbered some priests? I was out of practice then too. I'm sure it would go so much quicker now." He chuckles and then says to the one he picks out as the most leader-ly, "For a toll, too? Who are you even? I mean seriously who are you. I need you to tell us, tell us who you are working for and then get out of here. The Float doesn't need your kind of anarchy. What's this no-bloodshed talk, Micah? These boys are walking down a path of plenty of bloodshed."
======== Intimidate 21
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Friday May 31st, 2019 10:47:00 AM
Dorbin mentally counts all the yoots, then starts talking quietly to himself (casting a summon spell).
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Friday May 31st, 2019 12:12:01 PM
Zander stops, stares for second, and starts laughing as he listens to his companions outbursts, his full plate creaking as he rocks back and forth, "Now, now "hahahah" there's no reason a bunch of young hooligans need to get killed this evening. Broken bones and a good dunking are a hell of a teacher." Finally able to control his laughter and get his words out, Zander straightens and pulls his sap from his belt looking suggestively over the edge of the stairs.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+2=16 ; Friday May 31st, 2019 6:35:29 PM
Stohp eyes the youths, noting their clothes look to fine for them to be desperate ruffians. "Looking at you I'm guessing you're after something specific, not just a few gold coins, and you were at least smart enough to ensure you outnumber us and surrounded us. So let me my the situation very clear; you won't get whatever you're after, and even if you win this fight you lose. Half the town knows our names, and you weren't smart enough to conceal your faces. Between the 8 of us we can remember all of you well enough to describe the lot of you and soon half the town will be hunting for you for payback when they hear you waylaid the local heroes. Don't think your rich parents can protect you if you're related to nobles, we didn't get this far without making contacts of our own with the higher-ups. Walk away, and we'll forget you tried this. Stick around, and one way or another you're going to end up bruised and bloody on the ground." (intimidate 16 to aide Stock)
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+1=15 ; Friday May 31st, 2019 6:36:33 PM
She also suits actions to words and memorizes as many faces as she can (int check? if so, 15, should be good for a couple faces)
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 37/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 2d8+2=15 ; d20+7=26 ; Friday May 31st, 2019 7:08:09 PM
Bartomus looked downward at the one group, then back up at the other. He sighed loudly then chuckled when Stohp and Stock laid things out pretty clearly. He lowered the painting and turned it to where it was shielded away from himself and the approaching thugs. "Wait, wait, you mean we can't electricute them, us just want us to break bones and not like burn them to crisps? Well, I guess I need to take a sip of this to calm me down a bit."
He reached into his pouch and pulled out a small vial. He swalled it quickly and then began talking aloud softly. ----- Swallow cmw potion for +15; aid in intimidation with a 26
DM Robert - " Broken bones and a good dunking are a hell of a teacher." Saturday June 1st, 2019 10:04:30 AM
Micah sighs and tries to talk peace asking what the toll price is.
Stohp is incredulous and tells the group they are out of their depth.
Stock talks up the game and actually tries to intimidate them.
Dorbin starts preparing a spell.
Zanderallen adds to the intimidation talk.
Stohp catches on and adds to the intimidation.
Bartomus drinks a potion and helps with the intimidation.
Sid...
---- The 'yoots' move around. When they are asked who they are working for they momentarily look at each other. Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { They honestly seem confused by the question.}
"Look you," hair toss boy on the lower landing says. "Toll is...200 gold for each taur and 100 gold each for the rest of you."
From above one of the yoots speaks out, this is girl with shoulder length blond hair. "If you really are the Silver Shields, then you guys know how tuff it is to make a living. Ain't nobody from the upper crust level willing to help out for those of us what lives below."
"Shut up Sheila." Hair boy says. "Look at them, just like the rest, buying 'paintin's and what not when they could spend money to have a starving artist make them something new and unique." He turns his attention back to you. "Talk is cheap, I bet most of your rep is just hooey from that schlock Weekly Bugle newspaper." Perception 25 OR Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Sounds like he's trying to rally the troops.}
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+1=11 ; Saturday June 1st, 2019 12:43:49 PM
Sid steps forward, "Hi, Sid from the Split Arrow here. We're actually on business at the moment. Sheila?" He says looking at the girl, "If you need a job or training, I can get you an apprenticeship to be a bowyer right now, and that goes for any of you. I can probably do woodcutters as well. I have some odd jobs coming up that will pay well and can be as long term as you want."
Sid holds up his left hand so that the scarred stub of his pinky-finger is clear. "I have no patience tonight. Any who try to take will pay the price and win their own bone dice." He reflectively touches a pouch that hangs around his neck. "Wardd's Grace is how you use it. So consider wisely." His eyes are hard and dangerously hungry as he looks at them.
Intimidate: 11 ((Shame too because he is so sincere.))
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 37/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+8=15 ; d20+8=20 ; d20+7=19 ; Saturday June 1st, 2019 3:13:11 PM
Bartomus held the last word of his spell as he looked between the two who were leading this shake down. When Sid went up, Bartomus vanished and walked down finishing the spell as he reappeared in front of the rude lad.
"Boo, little boy," he said loudly, [/b]"and you never talk to a lady like that."[/b] He held up his stone encrusted fist in front of the hair tossing man. His voice had a deep tone to it when he spoke at the man now right in front of him. "Imagine, what stone would do to that nice haircut, are you really sure you want this fight today?
SM 15 and then 20; Used Hide Away to move the 25 ft down to "c" and then a 19 to intimidate.
"It appears their working on their own," he tells the others loud enough for the group to hear that they are being talked about in third person while present.
Then he addresses the apparent leader, "Actually, we did not buy this painting. It was stolen and we are returning it to its rightful owner--someone who would be destitute were we not helping them out.
"I will agree with you on one point, however. The Weekly Bugle is schlock."
He relaxes his stance and speaks calmly and warmly, "Listen to Sid's offer. He is working on something that will help out many people. There are real opportunities he is offering. I am offering you a carrot, but my friends here are ready to provide the stick, should you continue to hinder us.
Sense Motive 22 vs DC 20 Sense Motive 25 vs DC 20 Diplomacy 24 to influence the hooligans.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+1=10 ; Saturday June 1st, 2019 11:05:12 PM
"I'll even buy dinner and a drink for anyone who makes up the offer now. We know carpenters, sailors, cooks, inn keeps. Ffloyd's Awl, half of us are WLA members or scholars of some stripe." he says pointing to his WLA badge.
He says to Micah, "I like their comics though. I can usually get a chuckle from that fat orange owlbear, and it's always nice to read Prince Valiant. Really though they can't spell their own paper's name right half the time."
Diplomacy(Aid Micah): 10 ((*Sighs* Talking just really isn't my strong suit))
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Sunday June 2nd, 2019 9:56:31 PM
Dorbin lets Bart move forward and finishes his spell. As he does so, a large hound archon appears behind the group of youths (at H32).
OOC: Hound Archon AC 19; HP 51; DR 10/evil; Aura of menace; magic circle against evil, 10' r.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=12 ; d20+17=34 ; Monday June 3rd, 2019 11:01:21 AM
Dorbin looks around at the gathered youths and tries to see if he can spot any that might look like a spellcaster in the group near the archon (perception: 12; knowledge, arcana: 34).
OOC: Hound Archon AC 19; HP 51; DR 10/evil; Aura of menace; magic circle against evil, 10' r.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+6=26 ; d20+13=14 ; Monday June 3rd, 2019 1:49:59 PM
Stock stairs down the group and comes to the same realization that Micah did. "Hmm. So you're either not working for anybody or don't realize you're working for somebody." The tension goes out of Stock's stern visage and he rocks back on his heels a bit, realizing his turn to talk is over.
========== Sense Motive 26 Perception 14 Nat 20, Nat 1 and the world reverts to the mean
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+14=21 ; d20+14=23 ; Monday June 3rd, 2019 2:05:25 PM
Zander relaxes a bit as the talk seems to be heading towards a peaceful resolution. He almost jumps as in the midst of it all he hears and feels the release of magic. Bart seemingly appears in front of him and he sees a hound archon cutting off the retreat of the upper group. He bites back several scathing comments and instead prepares for the worst while trying to head it off, "Everyone stand down, Dorbin call off the attack dog." He feels a little bad about calling the hound archon an attack dog but only after it comes out. ------------------ Sense Motive 21 Sense Motive 23
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+8=19 ; Monday June 3rd, 2019 6:31:40 PM
Stohp is sympathetic, but firm. "Look, I do know how hard it can be. When I moved here I had nothing and I was quickly stuck living on the streets. This isn't the way to turn things around though. Even if you get your 1000 gold, split what, 10 ways? 100g is a lot, but it won't last forever, and if you're injured in a fight getting it then you have medical bills to pay for and if you go to a temple then you might easily be tracked down. You don't want to spend the rest of your life hoping the guards aren't coming to throw you in jail. We know people all over the flaot, we can help you find work without resorting to armed robbery."
Dip 19
DM Robert - " Broken bones and a good dunking are a hell of a teacher." d20+3=17 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=4 ; d6+1=4 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+4=24 ; d20+4=17 ; d6+1=5 ; d20+4=16 ; d20+12=32 ; 2d4+4=11 ; d20+12=17 ; d20+12=19 ; 2d4+4=9 ; d20+11=16 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+11=29 ; d6+1=6 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+12=25 ; 2d4+4=8 ; d20+7=21 ; 2d4+4=9 ; d20+12=20 ; 2d4+4=8 ; d20+7=17 ; 2d4+4=8 ; Monday June 3rd, 2019 8:48:29 PM
Sid talks diplomatically but acts intimidatingly.
Bartomus (Okay you said you moved down to C but C is up. Hair boy is 3. As that is who you are talking to I'm moving you 'Down' to him, you can't quite make it all the way.)(Please let me know what spell you have cast. DM's Gotta Know!) and if you want to actually move that direction.
Micah tries to be diplomatic.
Sid does some more talking.
Dorbin summons...a hound Archon? I don't think so. You used your summon monster IV already for this "day". You have not rested and this is still the same day as the halfling encounter and the thieves after Sturgis's shop.
Stock figures this group may just be a bunch of youth's out to make a buck off the rich.
Zanderallen tries to calm things down.
Stohp tries to be diplomatic.
------ I'm an wiping the turn and allowing you all a redo on this one because of the confusion on spells and where up and down was.
If you go back and read the turns, at least once a week I was putting in a time reminder to let you know the time of day you were still in.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Tuesday June 4th, 2019 4:47:26 AM
Stohp's actions stand.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 37/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+7=13 ; Tuesday June 4th, 2019 9:26:10 AM
Bartomus stood there looking down at the mouthy kid (#3) and holding a stare, or tried to with an intimidating tone. However, he was somewhat distracted by the sudden amazing motions of Sid that literally shocked the taur in their rapid sequence of movements.
"Truly, lads, we can all just let this be a big misunderstanding and you could come join us for a good meal at the Ghost," Bartomus said to the other young thugs.
---- Spell was Stone Fists and it remains; following Sid's amazing acrobatics, attempt to hold the other's attention and intimidate roll of 13
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Tuesday June 4th, 2019 11:44:44 AM
Dorbin sees Sid fly into action and quickly debilitate one of the gang. He pauses and doesn't quite finish his spell as he anxiously waits to see what will happen next.
OOC: I think we're still a little off on up and down. I thought Bart went up, towards the bottom of the map, towards youths b through g. But then Sid went down, towards the numbered group, right? Anyway, presuming everyone's attention is towards the group down the stairs (the numbered group), Dorbin will prepare an action to cast a web across the stairs between the shields and the lettered group, should any of that group start to attack. With a 20' radius spread, it should completely block the stairs (cover and combat maneuver or escape artist, DC 18 to get through).
"Did he just do that?" marvels Micah at Sid's sudden attack.
If the boy is unconscious Seeing that Sid used the flat of his blade, Micah calls out to the kids, Do not be alarmed! He is merely unconscious. We wish you no harm, but will not be assaulted.
If the boy is still up He calls out to Sid's target, "Had enough? Know that we will continue to focus our response on you while defending ourselves from the others. Do you still want to lead this fight or are you willing to stand down and talk peaceably?"
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Tuesday June 4th, 2019 2:15:47 PM
Zander is both impressed and shocked at Sid's acrobatics and blow. But he prepares to back up the party line, sap ready but holding his position.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Tuesday June 4th, 2019 2:23:03 PM
(See email: I think Sid cancelled his action. Not certain though)
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+13=15 ; Tuesday June 4th, 2019 5:00:16 PM OOC: Yeah Andrew asked for his post to be removed. I guess I'll give two posts to work off
If hostilities have started: Seeing Sid take the first action, Stock moves up, drops his flail and grabs the nearest kid. "I can't believe I'm saying this but just COOL OFF, EVERYBODY!"
If Sid did not attack: "So what will it be, boys? The Carrot or the Stick?" This last bit is emphasized with a rhythmic tapping of the handle of Stock's flail against his hand. "In case you couldn't tell, I'm usually The Stick."
Grapple: 15, provokes
Posting for Sid Tuesday June 4th, 2019 7:53:17 PM
"Ok, ok, let's calm down." Sid says raising his hands, "Now, we know what it's like to have it rough, but you don't have to go about it this way. I can promise an apprenticeship to anyone who needs it. I'm part of The Split Arrow and we could would fletchers and bowyers. We know wood workers, cutters, masons, bakers, tavern owners. I tended bar up to a year ago myself on top of the bowery. We don't want this, for you or for us. Please, let's go to Brassy's, have a drink and a meal, and talk about what we can do for the long term. Because, trust me, this doesn't last long, and the ending isn't a good one." (Diplomacy +1, aiding Micah)
DM Robert - "Because, trust me, this doesn't last long, and the ending isn't a good one." d20+8=28 ; Tuesday June 4th, 2019 8:30:22 PM I'm doing some razzle dazzle with your postings...Sorry I missed Sid saying to delete his post and then was waiting for an email from him to drop into his post, so things got a little curvy.
Bartomus turns invisible advances down the stairs and pops up a few feet from the dice rolling group threatening them with a stony fist and some big words.
Stohp tries to reason with them, pointing out that their 'toll' is not going to net them a lot of money in the long run.
Bartomus tries to setting things down by offering a meal to everyone.
Dorbin readies a spell and holds onto it.
Micah tries to influence the gang in regards to Sid's actions.
Zander is ready to back things up.
Stock emphasizes that he's got a big stick and isn't afraid to use it
Sid continues to try and find gainful employment for the group.
-----------------
The gang at the lower end (the numbers) are looking at one another while also keeping an eye on you. Perception 20, hearing, Highlight to display spoiler: {They are whispering and discussing their options, clearly they feel they are not up to your challenge. But also many of them are whining about actually having to work and not being able to sleep in and do what they want. It's about a 50/50 toss up right now.} Sense Motive 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { You get the sense that some of the yuts might be interested in the jobs aspect of things, but some of them seem to be just not suited to working for the man and following that sort of lifestyle.}
Meanwhile the gang at the top of the stairs (the letters) seems to also be talking in whispers while keeping an eye on you. Perception 20, hearing Highlight to display spoiler: {They are talking about loosing the advantage and if the guys down stairs bolt they will be less effective in trying to make some money. Their blond leader points out that they have other ways to make some money than getting into a fight.} Perception 28 seeing Highlight to display spoiler: { you see all of the members of the gang at the top of the stairs reach about their persons and retrieve a vial of some kind which they appear to also be popping off the corks as it were.}
opps map you are now on the tab 'counting down' I didn't know what else to call it since we're not in combat rounds yet.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+13=31 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+13=17 ; d20+13=26 ; Wednesday June 5th, 2019 10:08:57 AM
Stock's attention is focused on the youths in front. "Of course the other option is that we can just bring you to the guard. I'm sure they can figure something to do with you...Heck, maybe they would even take on some apprentices. And don't let me hear this guff about work, I've spent my whole life working - either in the mines, in the military or building out some rich guy's place upstairs. Life is work. Get over it." ====== Perception (1) 31 Sense Motive 8 Perception (2) 17 Perception (3) 26
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=14 ; d20+2=16 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=11 ; Wednesday June 5th, 2019 11:22:37 AM
Dorbin hears the youths at the top of the stairs talking about "other ways" of taking money. He mumbles, "Right. No fighting." He waves his hand and tosses a strand of a spider web in their direction. A massive web appears between the youths and the Silver Shields, blocking the stairway. He says to the shields, "They were planning some trickery. I'm done with them. Shall we be off?"
OOC: Perception, lower end, DC 20: 14 fail Sense Motive, DC 25: 16 fail Perception, hearing, upper, DC 20: 28 success Perception, seeing, upper, DC 28: 11 fail
Web: 20' radius should block stairs, extra-thick. cover and combat maneuver or escape artist, DC 18 to get through.
Micah sees the talking among the two groups, but is unable to discern what it is about.
When Dorbin casts the spell and announces trickery, his eyes narrow in concern.
Deferring to the wizards perception and judgment, he prepares to cover Dorbin's withdrawal, ready to repel anyone who should try to come through the protective web.
====== Perception 14 vs DC 20 Sense Motive 21 vs DC 25 Perception 11 vs DC 20 No check vs DC 28
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=19 ; d12=5 ; d20+14=28 ; Wednesday June 5th, 2019 4:44:22 PM
Getting the sense that the group below is split on their idea of a good day's work and Dorbin's cutting off of the upper group Zander moves to grab the painting. "Alright ladies and gentleman, you've got three options right now: Step aside and let us through. Walk with us and learn about some job opportunities. Or get free lesson in head knocking." He moves a couple stairs down and surveys the group of hooligans. ----------------------- Perception 19 fails Sense Motive 28 succeeds vs 25 (ignore d12)
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Wednesday June 5th, 2019 6:39:37 PM
Sid nods walking forward steadily with the rest of the Shields as they move. "Really, if we were serious about this, we would have finished this already. If you want to receive training, food, and possibly shelter, follow me. I you want to be maimed or possibly die, stay in our way. Personally I prefer the former. Less paperwork, right Stock?"
((I totally posted and didn't realize that the redo had been. Let's see if they attack again!))
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+14=20 ; d20+14=31 ; d20+14=30 ; d20+10=23 ; Wednesday June 5th, 2019 6:40:52 PM
Stohp listens in on the conversation and notes the drawing of bottles (perception 20, 31, and 30). She agree's with her fellows that it's time to leave and she follows cautiously, watching for any nasty surprises from either group.
DM Robert - "Because, trust me, this doesn't last long, and the ending isn't a good one." Wednesday June 5th, 2019 8:45:22 PM
The webs stretch from the floor of the stairs to the ceiling (remember the stairs go round and round, so the ceiling is about 15 feet high and is just another level of stairs) and from the wall to the 4 foot high railing. Really it's quite the mess. Your vision is obscured but you're pretty sure the upper level gang turns back and goes up the stairs.
The yuts in front break ranks with the casting of the web spell that cuts them off from their 'buddies'. All but 2 of them flee down the stairs. The other two.."Um, really I'd like to know about getting some sort of job.", the other one nods his head. "Yeah, but we really don't have any skills to speak of, we just sort of well you know knock heads every now and then, but mostly with each other."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 37/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+12=15 ; d20+8=18 ; Wednesday June 5th, 2019 10:39:39 PM "Sure, sure, I suspect we can find you something," Bartomus said in a quick realization that they were talking to the group of the Shields. He turned back to the others and added, "we can find them something respectable, maybe with the new venture we suggested to our milling friend? But, can we at least buy you something to eat?"
Sorry, I thought I posted, but aparetly rolled perception and sense motive and then walked away from the computer.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Thursday June 6th, 2019 4:51:49 AM
Stohp smiles and nods. "That qualifies you for any number of jobs. Bouncer is the one that comes to mind imediantly, there are plenty of bars in town that could use one. Guards, both the official type and private ones. We could probably find you a job like that and you could work on learning whatever skill your interested in on your off time."
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Thursday June 6th, 2019 11:20:54 AM
Stock shrugs his shoulders and then leads the group forward. "To the newspaper then for another delivery. And then where?"
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Thursday June 6th, 2019 11:54:57 AM
Dorbin smiles as he sees the Silver Shields victorious without having to kill a bunch of kids. Then he ponders and realizes that he's not much more than a kid himself. He is glad that a couple of the kids are open to changing their life for the better.
As the group starts down the steps he says to no one in particular, "That web will stay there for about an hour. Do you think I should get rid of it before we go?"
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 Thursday June 6th, 2019 1:14:01 PM "I think is has served its purpose," responds Micah with a grin. "Well played," he adds with a head bow to Dorbin.
He, too, is happy with the outcome and joins the other Shields, along with their two new charges, down the stairs.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Thursday June 6th, 2019 6:26:36 PM "Haha, I imagine it would be rather irksome to leave the web up. But come along you two, we have a quick stop to make and then we'll take you to the Fence level to have dinner. I'm sure we can introduce you to some merchants or others that would be more than willing to take on a few extra hands, especially if you're willing to apply yourselves. A lot of opportunities opening up with the forest being open to us now." Zander helps Bart grab the painting and heads toward Rosebud.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Thursday June 6th, 2019 6:30:19 PM
Sid exhales and goes to the two yuths, "I'm Sid," he says holding out a hand. "and welcome to a good decision." After shaking their hands and getting their names he says, "Alright, come along. We've got some business to finish, but we'll talk and figure something on the way. Now, what do you two want to do? If you want to be a tough Stohp has some good ideas. If not we can probably figure something out. If you have no idea, well I've got something for that as well."
DM Robert - "To the newspaper then for another delivery. And then where?" Thursday June 6th, 2019 8:25:20 PM
Bartomus is pleased that apparently some of the young one's are willing to break away from a life of crime. Hmm, has anyone else had posting issues? I know John/Micah had issues and now Rod/Mitch? Do we need to notify the powers that be that there may be an issue?
Stohp starts naming several jobs that the two may be able to get right away.
Stock is ready to get the show on the road.
Dorbin is happy at the way things turned out. He asks if he should get rid of the web or let it stay for an hour. Knowledge Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { There will be some traffic on the stair way, but not much as it is already past closing time for most of the shops on the merchant level.} Hero point to Dorbin for realizing those kids were pretty close to your own age.
Micah thinks the web has served it's purpose.
Zanderallen has the painting and is all for dropping it off and then having a meal. He mentions several opportunities for the lads.
Sid asks what the two want out of a career.
---------
Sean shrugs his shoulders. He is average in height and build, you get the impression that he may not make the best of bouncers. "I don't know. Never thought about it really. Been scrapping a living on the trash level since me mum died about 8 years ago." Sense Motive 20 a Highlight to display spoiler: {From his body language you get the impression he has had a long life of hardship but that there is some spark in him that kept struggling to survive and prosper.} Perception 20 a Highlight to display spoiler: {The lad can't be more than 16 years old.}
Thomas smiles at Sid. Then he glances around at Bartomus and answers somewhat nervously. "Honestly, I like to sing. My dad wasn't having it though and he would often smack me around when I tried to play music or write some songs. He always said I was a disappointment to him and that if I would have tried harder I would have been a guard like him." Sense Motive 20 b Highlight to display spoiler: {Bartomus is by far the largest of your group, and did play up being intimidating. Perhaps just for a moment Thomas was recalling images of his childhood and a large parental figure cuffing him.} Perception 20 b Highlight to display spoiler: {He's not bad looking, a little dirty and maybe he needs a bath. He certainly has some charm in his smile.}
You arrive at Rosebud Publishing right as Miss Daneel is locking up. You can see Hanse standing next to her, scanning the streets. He leans over and whispers to her. Miss Daneel turns around and seeing you quickly unlocks the door. Hanse motions you in but eyes the two youths severely.
She takes you to the library. IF you recall the library is a large room 40x70, richly appointed and spacious, the walls beneath a 15 foot ceiling are lined with well-filled wooden bookcases 9 feet high. Above the bookcases, the wall are decorated with swords, battleaxes, maces, shields of various designs (all of which have been blunted and rendered useless). Several helms sit upright on the top of the bookcases. Flanking the door are two suits of plate armor, each holding in one gauntlet a 14 foot pike. The window drapes are heavy dark green velvet. There are three small desks in the room and 2 couches and 5 chairs. The couches and chairs are all worn but comfortable looking. Perception 10 c Highlight to display spoiler: { One desk appears to have a ledger on it and there is a stack of books on the floor next to the desk.}
Miss Daneel says, "Thank you for your efforts. You have done more in one day than I thought possible. I can honestly say I'm very relieved. I think we can stay afloat for a few more months but we really need to find some blockbuster story."
The Sheilds take their leave and head down to the Fence level. Unless you wish to speak to Miss Daneel more...
To which restaurant do you wish to go...The Giggling Ghost, the Fatted Calf, or the Brass Toad?
"Thomas, we know some people who might be able to help you there. I can't promise you anything but a chance to make your own way. Micah, we have some Bard friends we can reach out to right?"
"And Sean, if you're not sure what you want to do you can always apprentice with us at The Split Arrow. Making bows and arrows is an honest trade and if you don't like it then you should at least learn enough to figure something out."
At Rosebud:
Sid notices books and glances at the titles and the ledger if it is open.
((Please ignore last roll, I did 3 perc then 3 sm checks because I got in a grove))
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+6=24 ; d20+13=20 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+13=17 ; d20+13=19 ; Friday June 7th, 2019 9:49:31 AM OoC: No posting problems for me (yet) "Let's go to the Ghost. All this hoofing about town has me hungry."
On the walk over Stock moves between Micah and Stohp and says, "You know, if this Sean kid is interested, we could also probably have him work with Rodrigo in helping to mind the warehouse while we're gone. Granted I don't know if I trust the kid yet but it is worth thinking about."
In response to Sid, Micah shakes his head sadly, "The bards we no are not on the Float, at least for now." Loud enough for the paladin to hear, he adds in a false whisper, " Our paladin is a passable musician. Maybe he can help Thomas develop his skills."
When Stock makes his suggestion, he thinks for a moment before agreeing, "He strikes me as survivor, with enough initiative to be willing to try to change his lot. Rodrigo might be a good influence on him at that."
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Friday June 7th, 2019 4:50:03 PM
Stock says to head to the ghost, so Dorbin follows along, not thinking of any better ideas at the moment.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+14=28 ; d20+5=11 ; d20+14=28 ; d20+5=15 ; d20+5=24 ; Friday June 7th, 2019 5:35:50 PM
Talking to the youths, "I'm not sure I would even claim passable, I have dabbled in music as a hobby. But I have a basic knowledge of chords I could attempt to pass on. As to Rodrigo, you both might benefit from some time working under him, he has a lot of experience in the world. We'll just have to give him a bonus for taking in a couple cubs wet behind the ears." He grins at the two youths as he says it.
As the deliver the painting and the book Zander notes the signs of trouble but hopes they are helping, Just glad to help out after what happened. I'm sure something big will come along for you."
He then takes his leave and heads to the Ghost with the others. He motions for Sean and Thomas to join them at a table and pays for their meal. ------------------------------- Sense Motive:28 Perception:11
Sense Motive:28 Perception:15
Perception:24
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Friday June 7th, 2019 9:06:55 PM
Sid nods to them, "I was pondering Rodrigo. Thomas, Sean, Rodrigo does guard work. Capable fellow. Seen bad and good. Helping us guard our Home right now. Think on that too. I'm good for the Ghost," he says to Stock, "I keep dreaming I'm there in the loo or unwrapping presents. It'll be good to actually be there for once."
DM Robert - "I'm not sure I would even claim passable, I have dabbled in music as a hobby." Saturday June 8th, 2019 10:09:51 AM
Sid tries to make the fellows feel somewhat welcome.
Stock suggests having the kids work with Rodrigo, and he wants to head to the Giggling Ghost.
Micah suggests that Zanderallen try to help Thomas and agrees Rodrigo might aid Sean.
Dorbin is ready to eat at the Ghost.
Zanderallen hands over the goods and agrees some time with Rodrigo might do them good.
Stohp?
Bartomus?
==========
Looking at the ledger, it appears they are trying to go through the entire library inventory to see if anything else might be missing?
The Giggling Ghost is packed tonight. It looks like a full house. Happy see’s the party however, and with a loud voice announces “The Silver Shields!” The local patrons seem to look amongst themselves and by some mysterious consensus move from one of the large tables to several surrounding tables. Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {There is a faintly luminescent creature floating among the patrons. Looks like the ghost is directing traffic and clearing a lane for the shields. }
The party sits and dines well. Happy will not take payment. The crowd for the most part leaves you alone. There appear to be a lot of ‘travelers’ in the Ghost. More than once you see the fireplace flare and then someone new is in the tavern.
Sean and Thomas are in awe. They’ve never been here before. Thomas leans over to Zanderallen, "Have you ever played here? What instrument do you play?"
The food is quite good. But you get the sense that it would not be a best place to discuss plans. After dinner you go to Headquarters.
The door is locked but Rodrigo lets you in….
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Sunday June 9th, 2019 11:17:28 AM
Sid looks at the young men and smiles a bit, and then goes and makes tea for everyone. He comes back with a pot, some cups and biscuits. He pours himself a cup and waits for the others to be ready.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 37/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+12=21 ; Sunday June 9th, 2019 4:12:30 PM
He had to look over his shoulder when they announced the arrival of the Shields. It still took him by surprise that he was a part of this group and that they had done what they had done. The others were in toe with them and they seemed a bit overwhelmed. Good food, talk and a bit of drink made for a good evening.
"There are a lot of opportunities about, if you set your mind to it. Playing here could be one of those things for sure!" He followed the others to their headquarters and looked about when let in. "So tomorrow do we try to find the other missing items, or just hang here?"
Sorry, daughter's HS graduation and all of the prep for it took my time and then some.
Micah keeps an eye on Sean and Thomas at the Ghost. He suppresses a smile as they react in awe.
Once back at their quarters, "Thank you, Rodrigo. Let me introduce to you a couple of new wards, at least for the moment. This is Sean and this is Thomas. They will be staying with us temporarily. Would you mind running them through some drills and seeing what you think." This is all said in front of the boys, with a kindly but firm expression he addresses the two youngsters. "Master Diaz here will be evaluating you on your ability to take care of yourselves. He is a veteran warrior and worthy of respect. What he says goes. Do you understand?"
==== perception 15
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+13=17 ; Monday June 10th, 2019 9:43:43 AM
Stock double takes at the mention of Rodrigo's last name. "Your last name is Diaz? Huh. I never knew!...Ok. Now off to Yeager? Come on Shields! Don't tell me you're getting tired! It's just walking and the occasional run-in with some unsavory types! Ha!"
======= Perception 17
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Monday June 10th, 2019 11:42:32 AM
Dorbin is glad to be back at the HQ. Emily the cat shows up and meows as the group enters. Dorbin wonders if they have room to put up their somehow expanding group of wards. He plops down in a comfy chair as the group discusses what to do next. Emily Jasmine jumps up on his lap as he does so.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=17 ; Monday June 10th, 2019 6:00:36 PM
Zander enjoys the Ghost as always. He laughs as Thomas asks him about playing here, "I've never played here, my skills are not that great. I play the lyre, I would gladly show you the chords." Back at HQ he sits down thanking Sid for the tea. "It would make it a late day, but if we head out we could see if any of the bouncer groups are making late collections." -------------------- Perception 17
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Monday June 10th, 2019 7:50:56 PM
Stohp is rather amused at the reactions of the two. She guesses they believe they are who they said they were now. She tries to judge the time and if they can get more done today or if they should call it. After all it doesn't matter if they're able to stay up all night, no one will be awake to answer questions and open doors eventually.
DM Robert - "Your last name is Diaz? Huh. I never knew!" Monday June 10th, 2019 8:13:06 PM
Sid makes tea for everyone.
Bartomus muses on the plans for tomorrow.
Micah turns the lads over to Rodrigo for a proper evaluation.
Stock is ready to go back out tonight.
Dorbin relaxes with Emily Jasmine.
Zander considers heading out to check on the collection racket tonight.
Stohp wisely wonders if the night is getting too late to get anything done.
==========
As everyone talks about what to do next there are some sudden insights (since most of you grew up on the Float). It's well after diner, few shops will be open on the merchant level, or any level for that matter. The places that will be open are taverns, gambling houses, places of ill repute, and churches. The honest folk will be settling down for the night and getting ready for another day of work tomorrow.
Also the spell casters of the group have had a busy day. No doubt they may want to rest and recover their precious arsenal before venturing out again tonight. After all Bartomus has already been almost dead today, there was a lot of healing applied earlier.
As to what to do next. Well there are only two items left to recover on the Float, A - Sages' Guild: 1-bk, An Expedition to the Barrier Peaks, and B - Lord Jonas Yeager: 2-bk, Pharaoh. You have already returned quite a bit in one day. At this point in the evening it would be imprudent to try and visit one of the Lord's of the City, so going tonight is out of the question. Also, which is the more pressing issue at this point, two more stolen items or the threat to the merchant level with people running a protection racket. And if you recall Torbin Cook did mention that the 'enforcers' were talking about a guard named Smith that was giving them trouble and would possibly have to be dealt with.
In the distance you can hear Rodrigo putting the two youth's through their paces. After awhile he comes to you and waits for a break in your discussion. "They are not without some small fraction of potential and a minor amount of skill. They could help guard the place but I'm not sure long term if that is best for them."
Your beds beckon and you realize what a truly long day it has been.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+12=15 ; d20+15=33 ; Monday June 10th, 2019 8:41:22 PM
"Alright Lady and Gents, I think I will bid you a good morrow. The boys can use my room as long as they don't touch anything."
He goes to Thomas and Sean, "Remember, if you want to be guards you can, but that's just option one. If you decide you're not taking to it, we can find something else, and I've always said that no skills are wasted."
Sid goes out into the night, making his way to home. He ducks into an alley and waits for five minutes and then sneaks home, keeping an eye out as he goes.
Micah is pleased at Rodrigo's report. He nods thanks his thanks and heads up to his quarters.
"Night all," he says as he heads for the stairs.
He carefully removes his armor and inspects each piece as always before setting it aside for the evening. He quickly falls into a peaceful sleep and wakes, as always, before dawn to spend time in meditation, stretches, and prayer.
Refreshed, he heads down to the kitchen area and starts coffee and breakfast.
He is concerned about what sounds like a threat to his brother. As others arise he suggests they go see Lukas to find out what he has been doing. Knowing that the thugs are worried about his actions, learning what those have been might give them insight into what they are afraid might get discovered.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Tuesday June 11th, 2019 10:34:53 AM
Stock chuckles at Rodrigo's comment. "I'm not sure long term any of this is for the best for any of us. But then again here we are, happily marching to knock evil down a peg."
Without another word he heads to the workshop where he puts in a few hours mindlessly planing a pair of wooden planks, enjoying the repetitive motion, the smell and the growing pile of shavings at his feet. Eventually he straightens, yawns and heads up to bed.
He will obviously be first awake in the morning again.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 37/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Tuesday June 11th, 2019 10:57:43 AM
He nodded at Micah, "Night Micah, well earned rest ahead for all of us I hope."
He thought about the day and it was a rough one. There were freshly healed scars made possible by the contributions of his fellow Shields, and there were tired, tense muscles that needed to relaxed. He looked about, "Sleep well Shields, we've earned our rest."
He mounted the stairs with a bit of ache mixed with a bit of slowness. He entered his room and looked at the bed and such. He laid down and spread out on the bed with slumber hitting as quickly as he got comfortable.
When first light came, he rose, took care of his morning business, cleaned up and then put on a cleaner shirt. He moved about and found his way out to the window looking over the lake. His morning contemplations and mediations ended with some thoughts for the day. He got up and stretched then found his way back to the Shield's headquarters.
He wandered throught the large open room and heard a bit of movement in the kitchen. He followed the sounds and wandered in, "Morning Micah, good night sleep here, you? Ready to find what we have left on the list?
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Tuesday June 11th, 2019 12:31:19 PM
Dorbin starts to fall asleep in the comfy chair with the cat. He wakens with a start to see the others heading off to bed. He climbs out of the chair, and Emily Jasmine complains. He waves at her, then heads up to his room for the night.
Emily Jasmine explores a bit and appears inside Micah's armor as he is checking it.
The next morning Dobin wanders downstairs, looking for food and drink.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 31/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Tuesday June 11th, 2019 7:23:21 PM
Stohp, having participated in no combat, is not nearly as tired as some of the others. She stays up and chats with the newcomers for a bit before bed, asking them general questions about their interests and stuff. She doesn't stay up to late and rises with the others. She agrees with Micah in that they should check on his brother.
DM Robert - "Sleep well Shields, we've earned our rest." Tuesday June 11th, 2019 8:17:09 PM
Sid arrives at home unmolested and spends a quiet evening with his lady love.
Micah suggests they go see Lukas to find out what he has been doing.
Stock sleeps smelling of pine.
Bartomus asks about going after what's left on the list.
Dorbin rests and Emily prowls about.
Stohp, chats with the youths. In the morning she agrees they should go see Lukas.
Zanderallen....is quiet and contemplative.
- - - Sean is not very forth coming. He is very shy and after a bit Stohp begins to understand that he fights only as a means for survival as he is unschooled in his letters. He may be better qualified in another profession, but what.
On the other hand Thomas talks with enthusiasm about songs and regales you with a tale you've heard in the taverns before. It of course was about the Silver Shields fighting the wheat zombies. You've heard it before and begin to tune it out. However, Perception 20 or Appraise 20 or Perform 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You realize that his singing voice lacks something tempo or something, but then you realize that he's not really singing he's reciting it as a ballad. As a straightup story told in front of a fireplace you realize he's quite good at painting pictures with his words, whether an instrument would help this or not, well only a true bard could tell.}
The party seems split, but most seem to indicate finding Lukas might be the best course of action for the day. With that you prepare to set off for the day.
Are all of your preparations made? All healing done? Bartomus and Stohp your headers still show damage. A nights sleep will restore your level plus your con bonus in hit points. Please make sure your headers are up to date.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+12=15 ; Wednesday June 12th, 2019 9:57:50 AM "Alright, then we find this Lukas, and hopefully we can get the last items on that list." Bartomus said with a smile feeling better than he had when he went to sleep. "Do you think we'll have to figure out how to deal with whoever is also wanting these items?"
Got it, thanks DM. Perception role 15
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+13=23 ; Wednesday June 12th, 2019 11:21:18 AM
Stock greets Lukas warmly, "Have you been ruffling some feathers among the town's undesirables?"
====== Perception 23
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=25 ; Wednesday June 12th, 2019 11:35:25 AM
Dorbin notices Thomas' speaking and says, "Thomas, I do believe you've got the spirit of a bard in you. Now where did Dirk get off to? Maybe we can connect you with an old friend of ours that might be able to help you out there developing your talents."
When the time comes to head out he says, "Let's see what we can find about Lukas, but I think we may see more of the crimson fellow as we explore, so keep your eyes open."
Lukas Smith's body lies on a wooden table, his corpse draped in the city's flag. Dignitaries line up in silent homage to the brave guard. Micah's father looks stern and somber and afraid to meet the priest's eyes. His mother how ever, eyes wet and bloodshot, mouths quietly but fiercely, How could you let your brother die? What kind of priest are you!?"
Micah jolts awake, drenched in sweat. He takes a moment to calm his breathing and reassure himself it was merely a dream. But was it. Worry that this might be a sign gripping his very soul, he goes to Domi in prayer. As he does so, as he was trained to do, he goes other what they have learned and what they may encounter as the day unfolds. He weaves thoughts and prayers together, praying for Domi's help and mentally, and spiritually, preparing for the day.
He descends to the common room and is comforted by everyone's willingness to go check on his brother, Lukas.
============== Micah will have healed anyone who needs it. He cast magical vestment on his shield before departing. Prepared spells updated
Perform 17
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+6=10 ; d20+14=32 ; Wednesday June 12th, 2019 5:18:53 PM
Zanderallen comes down rested and ready for the day after his morning devotions. As they breakfast and prepare to head out he keeps an eye on Micah noticing he seems a little worried under his calm visage. Before they head off he talks to Micah away from everyone else, grabbing him firmly by the shoulder and looking him very earnestly in the face, "Fear not Brother Micah. Lukas may be threatened but it will take quite a bit to take down a Smith. We'll get to the bottom of all this long before they figure out how to stop him." He grins and adjusts a couple straps on his armor before glammering it to look like a Domi crested tunic and clothes. "Let's get moving while the day is young. If Lukas has been marked as causing the criminals trouble he may very well know more than he thinks he does." ----------------- perform 10 Sense Motive on Micah 32
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Wednesday June 12th, 2019 6:28:03 PM
After an early breakfast, and lively debate over whether or not they can afford an apprentice, Sid makes his way back to the Shields. If Sean's concerns are mentioned to him or he hears them as their are said, he will nod and say, "First off, we can learn you your letters if you want to learn them no worries. If you don't want to be a guard, again you can apprentice with me at the Split Arrow. Bows are a good profession. Or I have some new jobs opening up in sanitation. Not glamorous, but it'll be vital for the Float. Think it over and learn what you can from Master Diaz. Make the most of the moment right yeah?"
"I'm ready when the rest of you are. I have a little bit of business in the afternoon, but I should be good until three or so.
DM Robert - "Have you been ruffling some feathers among the town's undesirables?" Wednesday June 12th, 2019 7:59:48 PM
Bartomus is ready to go after more of the lost items.
Stock gives Lukas a hearty greeting.
Dorbin thinks Thomas would make good bard. He is ready to see Lukas.
Micah has a terrible dream. Fortunately his prayers give him some comfort and is happy everyone is willing to see his brother.
Zanderallen offers some comfort to Micah and then makes ready to see Lukas.
Sid encourages the youngesters and is ready to get the day going, because he has an appointment at three.
Stohp apparently stayed up to late and is groggy this morning.
- - -
The party ventures forth, making their way to the Merchant Level and then to one of the guard towers. Entering in the morning you find the place pretty quiet. The desk sergeant nods at you. "Can I help you?" he asks in almost a bored fashion. When you explain you are here to see Lukas he nods again. "Roll call will be over shortly." He points you to some uncomfortable looking chairs indicating that's where you need to wait. Sense Motive 20 a Highlight to display spoiler: {If ever anyone was just marking time to retirement this guy would win the prize. He barely looks interested, and actually doesn't look to be in that good of shape.}
After maybe 15 minutes the guards come out of a room further back and begin heading out the door. When Lukas see's you, you see a number of expressions cross his face, happiness and worry being the chief among them. "Micah, what brings you back again so soon. That fence we shut down seems to have clammed up tight."
When you ask about trouble on the merchant level he subtly shakes his head. Then in a slightly louder voice, "Well I guess I can take you back to Sergeant Lestrade, since he's in charge of burglary." He motions you to follow him. Sense Motive 15 b Highlight to display spoiler: {He's definitely wary of letting someone know what's really being said, but the only persons in earshot are yourselves and the desk sergeant.}
He leads you back into the guard tower and there you see a door marked "Lestrade - Burglary". He gives a quirky knock and you here someone moving inside the room and then the door opening, just enough to let one person in. Lukas motions you in and follows you inside, closing and locking the door. Perception 15 a Highlight to display spoiler: {There are areas of the wall with things posted on them, you realize one is a map of the Merchant level and appears to have some markings in red. There is another area with drawings of faces on them.} Perception 20 b Highlight to display spoiler: {that knock was a coded knock if ever you heard of one.}
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+14=26 ; Wednesday June 12th, 2019 8:02:45 PM
(I think that damage may be from the previous module; she didn't get into the first fight of this one and we avoided the second)
Stohp eyes Sean. "It's fine if you don't know what you want to do. Before the Shields I was mostly just supporting my sister and going through the motions. How about this; between us and our various contacts we can teach you a lot of things and let you try a lot of things. If you're willing I suggest you just try a bunch of different things until you find something that strikes your fancy. Even if it takes a while you'll be picking up useful skills along the way."
As for Thomas, she listens carefully, though she's heard it all before (perception 26). "You tell the story well and I agree with Dorbin. You have some talent, and with some support and mentoring you could make a fine Bard."
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+5=13 ; d20+5=12 ; d20+12=23 ; d20+12=31 ; d20+16=25 ; Wednesday June 12th, 2019 9:18:37 PM
Sid shuffles through, noting the nod and looking at the board trying to piece together the information quickly from what he knows of events that they have been talking about, but also general news of the Float.
Sense Motive: 13 Sense Motive: 12 Perception: 23 Perception: 31 Knowledge(Local): 25
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+6=13 ; d20+6=16 ; d20+6=18 ; d20+6=11 ; Thursday June 13th, 2019 10:05:55 AM
After the greeting with Lukas, Stock is wary to say the least. His instincts are up and it's unclear how to direct them.
Stock will greet anybody in the room with a silent nod and looking at the map with red marks on it, tries to piece together if they represent the same locations that we saw with a diamond...or alternatively if the places with the diamond are all NOT marked in red. ====== Sense Motive 13 Sense Motive 16 Perception 25 (I rolled +6 instead of +13) Perception 18 (I rolled +6 instead of +13)
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+8=11 ; d20+8=11 ; d20+12=21 ; d20+12=14 ; d20+7=25 ; Thursday June 13th, 2019 10:13:35 AM
He just followed along with the others as they headed to the guard station. This was a place he, fortunately, hadn't had to visit in his few years living in the Float. When they all followed along, he glanced into the office and caught sight of the map with the red marks. He saw the drawings of pictures as well. "I can wait out here if there's not enough room for a taur or two in there."
As he stood, he tried to keep the image of the map firmly in his mind and looking over the glance he had to see if anything stood out with where the red x marks were.
SMa - 11; SMb - 11; Pa - 21; Pb - 14; so uncertain as to how many could go into the office. Wrote it as if only one person could go in. KnwL-25 to try to see if there is a pattern with the marked locations on the map of the Merchant Level.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=16 ; d20+8=22 ; d20+17=24 ; Thursday June 13th, 2019 12:01:05 PM
Dorbin follows along quietly watching. He spots the map and also looks for the significance of the markings.
OOC: Perception a, DC 15: 16 Perception b, DC 20: 22 Knowledge, Local: 24
Micah notes the mixed emotions on Lukas' face, but keeps his own reaction to himself.
He similarly suppresses his reaction when he observes the map with its markings and realizes his brother is notifying Lestrade by use of a coded knock.
He waits until all are inside and the door closed, then looks first at Lestrade then his brother, "It appears the rumors we have heard of the danger you are in have not escaped your attention, either." He pauses to look back at Lestrade. Then with a thoughtful expression asks, "What would have been different had Lukas not provided the correct knock?"
================ Sense Motive 34 vs 20 Sense motive auto success Perception a, 22 Perception b 21
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+14=31 ; d10=9 ; d20+14=29 ; d20+5=20 ; d20+5=12 ; Thursday June 13th, 2019 5:10:37 PM
Zanderallen great Lukas and then notices the restraint he is showing towards open discussion so he keeps his questions contained until they are safely locked in Lestrade's office. "Greetings, Sergeant Lestrade I hope you are in good health. It looks like you're already working on what we discovered when returning Miss Daneel's stolen goods. Someone is making a move on the Merchant level in a big way. Lukas you were specifically called out as being trouble, that tells me that something you're doing is close to the heart of the operation. We need to know what you've been sticking your nose in so we can look for what you've gotten close to. I think our two groups need each other, somewhere there are some very powerful people involved. What leads do you have so far?" As Zander speaks he moves around the room looking at the marked maps and sketches. His face is serious and his tone neutral as he hides the very real concern building in his heart. -------------------------- Sense Motive a - 31 Sense Motive b - 29 Perception a - 20 Perception b - 12
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+10=29 ; d20+10=17 ; d20+14=33 ; d20+14=28 ; Thursday June 13th, 2019 7:49:11 PM
Stohp is easily able to read the guards as they go through the facility (sense motive 29, 17, Perception 33, 28). Putting two and two together, she asks "You're worried about dirty guardsmen aren't you? How bad is it?"
DM Robert - "You're worried about dirty guardsmen aren't you?" Thursday June 13th, 2019 8:28:34 PM
Looking at the map you can see that the circle areas are merchant's shops. There are arrows leading down lanes and then ending in question marks.
You recognize one face on the wall as one of the guys that Lukas brought in the other day. There's another picture of what appears to be a bald Orc, or maybe a bald half-Orc. However you really recognize none of the individuals pictured on a personal level (ie you've never seen them before and no amount of knowledge local is going to get you any information on them).
In answer to Micah's question, Lestrade gives a quirky nod to Lukas and they both flip the boards over. You can now see that what you took as bulletin boards were actually the backs of the bulletin boards. They have been ingeniously hung with hidden hinges. On the sides now showing you can see a variety of crime reports, detailing burglary and petty larceny complaints on all 5 levels.
Lestrade sits behind his desk. The room is very cramped darn those oversized taurs. "We believe that there is a protection racket going on. Unfortunately the racketeers seem to be frightening the merchants more than the promise of ridding the streets of them is worth it. We've had reports of increased activities among the clerics providing minor healing. The clerics have told us they've been healing what they think are severe injuries due to fights or beatings. When we go to question the individuals they deny anything or make up some excuse about falling down stairs, having shipments topple on them and the like. We've tried to bring in some suspects but they manage to be freed withing a few hours." He harrumphs, and says "Lawyers." He motions to Lukas. "Lukas has tried to stake out some of the shops and follow individuals that don't quite belong shopping there. The usual one is this bald half-orc."
Lukas takes over. "Every time I start out I can follow him for a bit then he turns a corner and by the time I get there he's disappeared. The last 2 times I didn't even try to hide the fact I was following him. He just turns the corner and within seconds when I round it as well he's no where in sight."
Lestrade chimes in again in response to Stohp. "Dirty Guardsman has a bad taste to it, I prefer to say compromised. And we're not sure how far it goes. Those lawyers show up pretty quick. Recently when we go to speak to a potential witness they have become too busy or are out running errands, like they know we are coming. The only one's I absolutely sure about are Lukas and another corporal named Jaden."
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Friday June 14th, 2019 10:17:53 AM "That orc giving you the slip is just like that bard that tried to jump us. Ha! His buddies got theirs! Anyway dirty guardsmen is a sorry state...."
Stock mulls over the situation for a minute and then says, "I'm just spitballing here but what if we work together to "apprehend" one of these low level thugs and bring them back to the HQ for questioning..."
He finishes, giving an almost sheepish look at Z and Micah for suggesting something that is at best legal-ish, if not flat out illegal.
"Either way, do you have any idea how we can track down this orc?"
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Friday June 14th, 2019 12:17:34 PM
Dorbin thinks back to his time growing up on the trash level. He mumbles, "We need some sources of our own. We either need someone on the inside to turn, or we need to recruit someone else, someone who is already out there watching, who has seen something."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Friday June 14th, 2019 2:46:19 PM
Zander listens to Lestrade's account, "That sound about what we picked up from our investigation. We got to get one of their leaders, the street level thugs probably don't know a thing. How is this guy giving you the slip so readily Lukas?" He shakes his head until Stock speaks up,"Say that again Stock. No, no, no, the part about the bard giving us the slip. He used invisibility magic right? Could this guy be doing the same thing? Dorbin, Micah, do we have a way to test that? Do you know where this guy is likely to be Lukas? If he's playing so hard to catch maybe he actually knows something, and your attempts to apprehend him might be what's putting the target on your back Lukas."
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 Friday June 14th, 2019 9:48:20 PM
“Many yeses,” replies Micah to Zanderallen. “Yes, it sounds like invisibility magic. Yes, we have seen it used before by that bard criminal leader. And, yes, there are countermeasures. In fact I have prepared the same spell I tried to use the last time. If He gets close to me while it’s active, the magic invisibility will be nullified “.
To lestrade and Lukas he asks, “any ideas as to how to set that up?”
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Saturday June 15th, 2019 9:46:17 AM
"I can be pretty sneaky when I need to be, but I can't stop anything like Micah can. I will say that no matter the plan, Lukas should do what he would normally do. Him suddenly not dogging the trail of this guy will be a larger flag than anything. Also, we have to assume that they know the Shields are in on this. With people watch, us, you, and 'Compromised Guards' we, whatever we have will have to assume that they will be wary." Sid smiles and looks around, "Now I'm not a strategist, so I'll leave the actual planning to the professionals."
DM MikeK - How do we track down this orc? Saturday June 15th, 2019 10:34:23 AM
The Shields, Lukas, and Sgt Lestrade discuss the situation.
Stock asks what would happen if the Shields, ahem, apprehended some of the low level thugs, and brought them in. Lestrade shakes his head. “I’d expect pretty much the same thing when we brought them in. They don’t know anything, and some lawyer would be here in minutes to get them released.” He gives a snort and glances at Stock. “Probably on an illegal arrest argument.”
Dorbin suggests finding their own informant. “Any leads you got on that would be helpful,” Lestrade agrees.
Micah, Zanderallen, and Sid think about the sudden disappearance of the half-orc. The consensus is he’s likely using some kind of invisibility magic. Micah points out he can detect such, if he’s close enough. The question is, how to do that?
Just then, the group hears a commotion from the Front Desk room. A female voice, loud and frustrated - “I am NOT leaving until I talk to my brother!” - comes in loud and clear through the door over placating sounds from the desk sergeant.
Micah - Perception 5 Highlight to display spoiler: { The voice, and tone, sounds a lot like your sister. }
Lukas give Micah a puzzled look, crosses the room and opens the door. “Jetta?” he calls. “There you are!” comes the response. “Lukas, you need to help us! The shop is in trouble!”
Lukas invites his sister in to the room, while Lestrade hurriedly flips the bulletin boards back around to hide the investigation.
Micah’s sister strides in, stopping abruptly at the presence of a roomful of adventurers, including... “Micah? What are you doing here?”
Lukas responds for his brother. “They’re helping us with a case. Why are you here? What’s happening?”
After some quick introductions, Jetta hastily sketches out her story:
This morning, three creeps showed up at Smith's smithy and asked about their "fire Insurance" and how it might be a good idea to buy fire insurance from them. Micah's dad told them to be on their way. But the creeps said they would be back tomorrow at 4pm, just to see if he'd changed his mind. Jetta describes the creepers as “two low life human guys, early 20s, and this half orc with a shaved head.”
“A bit after they left, I found this balanced on the shelves.” She hands over a small bottle.
Craft Alchemy DC 10 OR Knowledge Arcana DC 20 - Highlight to display spoiler: { It’s Alchemist’s Fire }
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Saturday June 15th, 2019 12:10:42 PM
Bartomus was dozzing by the door and the room came back into focus from his day dream of the plains of his youth. As Micah's sister came and shared her story about their business.
As she talked and shared that the enforcement effort was now going directly at Micah's family, he glared at no one in general. "So, how can we use tomorrow at 4 p.m. to our advantage? I mean on thought I have is if this half-orc goes and uses some invisibility spell, I could toss at him faerie fire and that could let us see what can't be seen. I mean it might work."
Since, Lukas, as is typical, speaks for him, Micah watches silently as Jetta enters and tells her story.
"Thank you, Domi," he whispers softly as he realizes along with Bart that they have been given the time and place of the next appearance of the thugs.
He takes a look at the vial, but does not recognize it. He gestures for the others to take a look, but expects it to be some type of incendiary. He then casts detect magic and takes another look.
He then explains to the others, "The spell I have ready will cancel his invisibility. Unfortunately, he might notice he is no longer invisible. That may mean our only play here is to capture them. Perhaps this half-orc might not be so ignorant."
He gestures to Lukas and Lestrade to cover their ears and lowers his voice before continuing, "We would have time to interrogate him ourselves before the authorities arrive."
Gesturing again, he then resumes for all to hear, "I could also prepare a spell that enables me to see invisibility, but I can only cast it on myself, so I would have to be the one to lead and tailing of them. Even without this armor, I am not that stealthy."
============ Detect Magic Craft Alchemy 6 Knowledge Arcana 20 The spell Micah has prepared is invisibility purge. Also, I put a question on the Rules Center board about how invisibility purge works.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Sunday June 16th, 2019 7:47:00 PM "Leave him to me." Stohp says. "I don't care if he can turn invisible, once he's got an 800 lbs Taur sitting on him he won't go anywhere visible or not."
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20=3 ; Monday June 17th, 2019 9:50:26 AM "Yeah, even if he's invisible, I should be able to smell him. It would be a bit like whack-a-mole but would probably be fun." His eyes drift off for a second and then he says, "What's whack-a-mole? Oh that was a game I played as a kid in the tunnels. Sometimes we'd get these oversized moles digging through our walls. The kids would have to run around and pull them out. Roasted over a fire with a little salt and pepper - them's good eating."
"I will say though, I REALLY don't like the idea of these guys threatening Lukas or the Smith Smithy. You guys may have to restrain me...On the bright side, now we have a time and a place."
======= Craft Alchemy 3
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+17=36 ; Monday June 17th, 2019 12:31:06 PM
Dorbin watches as the woman barges in. When she shows the flask, he just glances at it and mumbles, "That's alchemist's fire. Nasty stuff. I would say they're serious about their fire insurance."
OOC: Knowledge, Arcana, DC 20: 36 Success
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Monday June 17th, 2019 5:07:45 PM
Zander takes several loud deep breathes to steady himself, the sound of metal scraping on metal quite obvious as he clenches and unclenches his mailed fists. "I think apprehending him may be our best and only choice. Even if Micah were to follow him with the ability to See Invisibility I think he would notice he was being tracked somehow and take evasion action, and would most likely be able to easily lose us. Tagging him with fairie fire, sitting our big taur on him, and bringing him in for questioning. That sounds like we'd have a chance. I vote we ambush him at the Smith's shop tomorrow at 4. And Stohp, they put alchemist's fire in a friend place, I wouldn't be too gentle with the sitting."
DM Robert - "So, how can we use tomorrow at 4 p.m. to our advantage?" Monday June 17th, 2019 8:18:38 PM
Bartomus suggests a little faerie fire.
Micah has invisibility purge but is not sure if it will work the way they want it. Tailing him might be pretty hard as he's not stealthy.
Stohp just wants to sit on the half-orc.
Stock thinks he can track by scent.
Dorbin identifies the alchemist fire almost as an afterthought.
Zanderallen thinks capturing him and questioning him might be their best bet.
Sid... - - -
Lestrade grunts and shrugs. "Capturing them has not been the issue. They claim up and wait for their release. We did have one person that was willing to press charges, we brought a couple of those guys in. But then the next day he said he was mistaken and could not identify them for sure. I later learned that he had to call for the clerics in the night because his wife and son had been severely beaten. He told the clerics that there had been an accident with loading stock, but the cleric knew the difference from the wounds inflicted."
Lukas smacks his fist into his open palm. "Dang that half-orc and his jaunty cap. It's almost like he's throwing it in my face whenever I try to follow him." Perception 15 or Knowledge Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Jaunty cap? no one has mentioned before that the 'bald' half-orc had a hat. Stohp has a jaunty looking hat she used to wear..maybe she still does...}
Lestrade drums the desk with his fingers. "I really wish we could recruit a cleric or wizard for the guard. I've heard of spells they could use to find people and things. That would certainly make a lot of aspects of our job easier." Knowledge Arcane 15 or Spellcraft 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { He might be talking about Locate Object or Locate Creature } If you succeed on the above check... Intelligence check 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Now if you could get the person to accept payment with a special coin, one that you'd marked in some way or that unique, well then you could use the lower level Locate Object spell.}
Lestrade motions you all out. "You'd best be going before someone gets nosy."
As you leave, Lestrade loudly proclaims. "Lukas, you need to keep your family affairs out of the office. Now get out there and get to work!"
Micah stops his hand halfway on its trajectory to slap his forehead as he realizes his hands also are gauntleted. "Lestrade, that's it. Unfortunately, divine magic does not provide for the casting of locate creature, but I can magically locate an object. Dorbin, do you happen to know locate creature. If not, perhaps we can track a unique item this half orc keeps with him."
As they leave, he takes the time to finally greet his sister, lifting her with a hug. "Have you lost weight?" he asks, repeating an old joke of theirs.
======== Perception 8 vs 15 Spellcraft 15 vs 27 Int 4 vs 15
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+13=27 ; Tuesday June 18th, 2019 9:12:49 AM "Jaunty cap? What? Why would that even stand out to you? Stohp, do you still have that funny hat? I always thought of it as kind of jaunty."
======== Perception 27
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+17=19 ; d20+6=22 ; d20+17=35 ; Tuesday June 18th, 2019 12:08:41 PM
Dorbin ponders a moment and then says to Micah, "No, I don't know anything like that. I might be able to find that spell, as I do believe I've heard of it. Clerics do know it as well. And we could use something, maybe a marked coin, to pay the fellow and follow him if we had access to that spell."
OOC: Knowledge, Arcana, DC 15: 19 Success Knowledge, Int, DC 15: 22 Success
Knowledge, Local, to know if Dorbin might know anywhere he could buy access to locate object or a scroll: 35
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=9 ; d20+5=23 ; d20+1=16 ; Tuesday June 18th, 2019 5:22:59 PM
Once they are clear of eavesdroppers Zander voices a plan, "We could try to slip something to him that we could track magically. Might actually lead us somewhere. Micah could have it prepared for tomorrow. Anybody here think they could get something into his pocket either unseen or by trickery?" ------------------------- Perception 9 vs 15 Spellcraft 23 vs 15 Int 16 vs 15
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Tuesday June 18th, 2019 6:30:26 PM
Bartomus followed along and added, "they ate going to want money. Why not give them what they want?
He blinked and kept talking. [B]"We get a few gems that we get laced w a spell and track that. We're c might loose the gems, but might get a few leads as well."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Tuesday June 18th, 2019 6:50:25 PM
Stohp shakes her head at Lestrade before they go. "Micah's sister just told us they've been targeted. I'm sure his family would cooperate and we can protect them from any retribution. I'm new at this so maybe I'm wrong, but it seems that you've got your cooperating witness right there, plus the alchemists fire that just magically showed up after threats were delivered. We should still try to figure out his vanishing trick and follow him to his cohorts, but I don't see any reason why we can't bring him in directly afterwards."
After they leave Stohp listens to everyone else's discussion before putting her two cents in. "I do still have that hat." she says, tipping it jauntily. "It lets me appear to be someone else in an instant. It could easily be how he's shaking his tail, and less risk the true invisibility in a crowded street. Someone just make walk into you if they can't see you."
Stohp ponders for a moment. "So how's this for a plan. We work with Micah's family to plant a traceable coin on the orc. How good of an actor is your father Micah? We'll need him to sell to the orc that he's intimidated enough to pay after finding the alchemist's fire. If possible he could even bait the orc into saying as much as possible about the plot so he can testify about it later. Once the orc is paid maybe have a few of us hanging around in side streets, see if we can catch him at his vanishing act. I don't know, is that too risky?
Still, once he's on his way we can trace him with locate object, or at least the coin. If we're lucky we catch him with his gang and bring them all in, or maybe he gives it to his boss and finally get a name on the boss, or at least a face If we're out of luck he goes home and goes to sleep with it. This may require a stakeout and several peeks at the location of the coin to catch as many of them as we can. Is there any sort of scrying magic we can use to watch the area the coin is taken too? That'd be super useful."
DM Robert - "Lestrade, that's it." Tuesday June 18th, 2019 8:41:51 PM
Micah realizes the power of locate creature and locate object.
Stock asks about Stohp's hat.
Dorbin suggests paying the fire insurance with a marked coin.
Zanderallen asks if anyone could slip something into his pocket so they could track it.
Bartomus suggests paying the insurance with gems.
Stohp thinks that maybe the half-orc is using a hat of disguise. She suggests Micah's father be a witness in the court. And Micah's father could plant the locate object coins during his payment. She also asks if anyone can scry/spy on the coin should they lose track of it. - - -
The party exists the building and looks for a somewhat private out of the way location. Perception 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {That desk sergeant was eyeing you but if you notice him, he just smiles and gives you a little nod.}
Lukas quickly goes off on his patrol.
Locate Object would best work with a specific item. Now a gold coin could be specific but it could be one of many. Bartomus suggests paying the insurance with gems.
Jetta pipes up. "Gems might be overkill, they are only demanding 10 gold pieces a week. It's enough to be payable without bankrupting us. After all you don't slaughter the cow when you're just trying to milk her." Knowledge Local 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {A unique gold coin, now that's different you could try and get an old gold coin from some collector, or you could see if some money changer has a gold coin from a far off region.} Craft 20 or Profession 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Someone skilled could try and create a coin that was unique.}
While the sum does seem small, if they have enough of the merchants on the level cowed, then that could mean a couple hundred gold pieces a week. Two gold a day is a good income for most. The book states that a skilled hireling costs 3 sp a day, but that assumes you are providing food and boarding.
You find an a small cafe serving coffee, hot chocolate, and tea as well as some croissants and cream puffs. It's after the morning rush so it's pretty quiet and empty. You can smell fresh bread being baked in back.
Dorbin is reasonably sure he knows where he can pick up a scroll of locate object. And that place would probably be the Sage's Guild.
Something Stohp said is playing around in the back of your minds... Knowledge Arcane 15 or Spellcraft 15 or Knowledge Local 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { A hat of disguise would work to have the half-orc change his appearance, then again maybe the hat of disguise is already working when people are seeing the bald half-orc, i.e. that the bald half-orc is not his true self.}
It is still morning. You have all of today and most of the next to prepare for the meeting with at 4pm. What is on the agenda for the Shields?
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+13=29 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+3=15 ; Wednesday June 19th, 2019 9:09:23 AM "Glad you guys are around to help figure this out."
He stops by the cafe and grabs a cream puff, leaving a silver. "So do we just hold up waiting on our "meeting" tomorrow?"
======== Perception 29 Local 14 Local 15
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+12=26 ; d20+7=9 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+7=10 ; Wednesday June 19th, 2019 10:25:50 AM
As they left the station, he noticed that the desk sargeant seemed to be interested in their being there. "Hope it's a quiet one for you guys," he said to the guy and anyone else listening.
As they were talking with Jetta, he nodded adding with a shrug his thoughts. "Well, I was thinking of something small like a pearl or garnet, but even those might be too much. Just something we could track somehow. Stohp's got it down, just need to get that scroll. We could bite a gold coin, did we get any odd ones from the Folk we could us? "
He got in line at the cafe, his mouth watering at the mix of smells and his mind envisioning a fresh croissant or two and some strong tea. "We gotta go fine a few more books today, right?"
P 26; KnL 9; Cft 15; KnL 10
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+17=37 ; d20+8=16 ; d20+17=28 ; Wednesday June 19th, 2019 11:54:57 AM
Dorbin watches as the desk sergeant watches them depart. After they are outside and out of earshot he says, "I don't think I trust that desk sergeant there."
As the group gathers at the cafe, Dorbin says, "You know, we could likely get a coin that's unique that hopefully the bad guys won't recognize, maybe from a collector. I wonder if we might even just be able to nick one in such a way that the spellcaster would be able to use the spell on it."
"Oh, and while we're thinking about that, I'd need to go pick up a scroll for that spell myself. I'm pretty sure the Sage's Guild would have one, but we don't want to wait for the last minute to pick that up."
He ponders another moment and then says, "And hey, if that guy has a hat of disguise, the bald orc might actually be the disguise and he just takes it off when he wants to disappear into the crowd! Then it could anyone, even Red Herring!"
OOC: Perception, DC 15: 16 Success Knowledge, Local, DC 20: 37 Success Knowledge, Arcana, DC 15: 28 Success
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=20 ; d20+5=7 ; Wednesday June 19th, 2019 5:17:18 PM
Zander ignores the desk sergeant as they leave, poor man was probably having his family threatened to report on the guards. Once they're at the cafe he gets a cup of tea and sums up the groups plans, "I think we go to Lord Yeager and the Sage's guild to collect the last two stolen items still in the city. Look like business as usual, while we're at the Sage's guild we can get Dorbin his scroll and see if we can find a coin with some unique non-suspicious feature that we can magically track. Plant it on our guy and see where it takes us." ----------------------------- Perception 20 Spellcraft 7
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+4=20 ; d20+4=14 ; Wednesday June 19th, 2019 6:35:03 PM
As they leave Sid takes out a gold and a chisel. He takes his tea and a scone, dropping a silver as well, and as they sit he starts defacing the gold, as if a bored rich kid was being stupid. He drops it on the table when done and says, "Here, a common, uncommon coin. Eh?"
Dex(+4): 20 ((Not sure what else to add so I just did my dex to deface the coin in a unique, but banal looking way.))
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Wednesday June 19th, 2019 6:35:19 PM
Stohp had already guessed the orcs form wasn't his true form, but thought it obvious and didn't mention it. Seriously, who would go around extorting people looking like themselves if they had an easy means of disguise?
As for the coin, she puts her two cents in. "Do we really need to go to all of that trouble? Why can't we just take a coin, gouge out part of it or get a horse to step on it a few times so that it's unique? If we get something to obviously different it'll make the orc suspicious and he might know enough to worry about being trace via an object. A coin that just looks like it got beat up through use, but is unique enough for the spell to recognize, seems like it'd be best to me."
Micah pauses a moment at the door to see if he can get a read on the desk sergeant. After they get out of the range of hearing, he says to his sister, "Next chance you get, tell Lukas that the desk sergeant was paying us a little more attention than usual. He should look into it."
"Unusual coins should be easy enough to come by. Customers occasionally pay in foreign or unique coinage. Father, likely has one we could use.
=================== OOC: Is the collection today at 4:00 or tomorrow at 4:00?
Sense motive 32 to determine any intent behind the desk sergeant's scrutiny
Perception 23 vs 15 success Craft 13 vs 20 failure Spellcraft 24 vs 15 success
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Wednesday June 19th, 2019 6:52:50 PM "Yeah, like that" Stohp says after Sid finishes defacing the coin.
DM Robert - " I'm pretty sure the Sage's Guild would have one." Wednesday June 19th, 2019 8:16:23 PM
Stohp downs a cream puff, but can she stop with just one.
Bartomus wonders about getting an odd gold coin as well as the scroll. Croissants are served and then a jar of honey and butter... He wonders about the other stolen items as he eats.
Dorbin ponders on many things.
Zander is for business as usual which means fetching the other stolen items.
Sid starts working over a coin.
Stohp thinks they should just try to make the coin look well used.
Micah wonders about just using a foreign coin.
Stohp admires Sid's work.
---- OOC the meeting for the fire insurance is tomorrow at 4....in game time, not real time.
Sid please make a craft check at +17 to deface the coin but make it still look normal. Interestingly this was done during WWI by soldiers and was called Trench Art. The faces on the coin would be 'altered' to make them look like someone else. Sometimes a whole side would be redone into something completely different. But for our purposes you're trying to make the 'face' on the coin look like one of your companions, you pick who.
With both Stohp and Sid massively overpaying your service is good and frequent. Diplomacy 15 to get the waiter to let you have some peace and quiet.
With your morning snack done it seems the majority who voiced an opinion seem to think heading to the Sage's guild should be the first order of business. And thus after giving Sid a decent amount of time to start his work you trudge off to the Sage's Guild, all the way up on the Gold Level. The Headquarters of the Sage’s Guild is in the Floating City, on the Gold Level [at location No. 24], at the former site of Kerracle's Temple of Unity. The public entrance is an unassuming gateway leading onto a grand circular courtyard bordered by the three domed buildings of the Symposium chambers. In the center of the courtyard is the small but elegant Chancellor's Tower. Each chamber has workrooms, studies, and living quarters in the upper levels and a network of rooms and tunnels beneath that connects to the other buildings and to the Vault of Records below. The Vault is a vast warehouse in a magical space that is much larger inside than out. This Vault, controlled by the Librarians, holds everything ever collected by the Sage’s Guild.
It is most likely the book would be in the Chamber of Records. Whereas obtaining a magical scroll would most likely be done in the Chamber of Instruction.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Thursday June 20th, 2019 9:53:19 AM
Stock takes a long look around the Sage's guild as they enter. "So this is where you escape to, Dorbin. It's pretty quiet here." Not surprisingly, Stock is not being all that quiet.
"Micah - I'm sure that desk sergeant was just surprised to be in the presence of the Shields. Even if he knows you are Lukas' brother, it has to be distracting to see us in person. Probably nothing too suspicious there."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Thursday June 20th, 2019 10:06:23 AM
The food was delicious, the service constant, which wasn't too bad except being interrupted a bit too often by servers wanting to make sure that everyone was satisfied. As they ate, he thought a bit more about their plan.
"What if we asked the young guy to be there in the shop with you disguised as one of his buddies? No one is going to suspect a couple of young thugs. Especially if they are ordered out of the place as the insurer's arrive?" He shrugged as he laid out his idea. "The others might be interested in tracking down the pair moving in on their territory, that could give us a bit more of angle to play."
He was amazed at the Sage's Guild's size and suspected that a person could spend weeks, if not months, just wandering about the various dome filled chambers. "So, Dorbin, we just follow you, or um do you want us to wait out here and what don't touch things?"
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Thursday June 20th, 2019 11:25:04 AM
Dorbin smiles and nods to those he knows once they enter the chamber. He almost forgets that he has brought and entire entourage with him until he gets a few looks from some of the staff. When Bart asks, Dorbin replies, "I think if we just stay together, I should be able to lead us where we need to go." He gestures towards the chamber of records, indicating that the others should follow. A moment later he looks back, quite surprised that he's actually leading such an esteemed group.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+17=20 ; Thursday June 20th, 2019 6:43:01 PM
Zanderallen courteously gets the waiting staff to give them a little space to talk privately. Once they head into the Sage's guild he very quickly realizes just how lost he could get in here. He is amazed at the young wizard's ability to navigate through the seeming maze of knowledge, "Lead the way master Dorbin. By all the gods, this place is huge. Do you think anybody has actually read all the books in here?" ---------------- diplomacy 20
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Thursday June 20th, 2019 7:19:00 PM
Stohp grunts. "We established the guards have problems, I think that's more than enough reason to be suspicious. Especially with how everyone was speaking loudly so the desk Sargent would hear our excuses."
DM Robert - "Do you think anybody has actually read all the books in here?" Thursday June 20th, 2019 8:29:41 PM
Stock seems to think the desk sergeant was just taken in by their heroic presence.
Bartomus proposes a plan. Not sure who you mean by young guy and disguised as one of his buddies.
Dorbin takes the lead.
Zanderallen thinks the place is huge.
Stohp is suspicious of the guard in general.
Sid? Working on the coin?
Micah?
_______________________
As a reminderSid please make a craft check at +17 to deface the coin but make it still look normal. Interestingly this was done during WWI by soldiers and was called Trench Art. The faces on the coin would be 'altered' to make them look like someone else. Sometimes a whole side would be redone into something completely different. But for our purposes you're trying to make the 'face' on the coin look like one of your companions, you pick who.
The hall of records is indeed huge. In fact through not small magical feat, the inside is many times larger than the outside. A quick look around the help desk reveals one attendant with the shortest line. Dorbin recognizes him as the fellow he dealt with previously. It is Gargamel. His robes are not the finest quality. He is bald on top with disarrayed black hair on the sides and back. His bulbous nose looks like it could scent a truffle in the woods. It is either to him they must go to or wait possibly a half hour while other scholars put in their complex requests for material on matters hopping there is a volume dealing with their question. (Which is why the attendants are always busy, trying to decipher what the scholar really needs to answer their research questions.)
Knowledge Local 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Gargamel is a misanthrope, hating pretty much everyone, though he will sometimes feign friendship if there is something in it for him that he can either earn or steal. He is also an abject coward, surrendering or fleeing upon the merest hint of personal risk or harm. It is rumored that he has a seemingly endless library of spellbooks ("grimoires"), potions, and gimmicks for his life's passion.}
Of course acquiring the volume "An Expedition to the Barrier Peaks" which records showed was sold to a representative of the Sages Guild, may simply be going up and asking for it and pointing out it's stolen property.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+7=16 ; Friday June 21st, 2019 12:02:52 AM "Yea, if we could get Sean and Thomas to act like they are there to shake the place down on a regular basis," Bartomus started up again on his idea. "The half-orc might see them as cutting into their territory, make it where the shop owner shoes them out as the half-orc shows up and then here's your money, go tell them to leave us alone."
He looked about and followed along with the others.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+3=8 ; Friday June 21st, 2019 8:54:15 AM
To Bartomus, Stock says: "That could work although I wonder if the two kids are ready for that. I hate to put them in danger - and they would certainly be in danger. I'm more of a fan of staking out the Smithy and then following the insurance collectors in to the building. Keep them contained inside and capture them. If needed we could bring them back to the warehouse for a more detailed conversation."
He then looks over at the docent and sighs. "OK. An Expedition to the Barrier Peaks. Let's find it."
======= Local 8
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Friday June 21st, 2019 12:15:27 PM "Hopefully this is an easy request. Go ahead Dorbin, it will probably be received better as coming from one of their own members. The rest of us will wait here so we don't goon squad some poor desk attendant. We don't exactly look like their normal customer." He chuckles as he looks around at the groups abundance of arms and armor.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+17=30 ; d20+17=33 ; Friday June 21st, 2019 1:35:40 PM
Dorbin recognizes Gargamel and waits his turn in line. When he reaches Gargamel, he tries to talk Gargamel's language (Profession, librarian: 33). He asks if Gargamel knows about the book and tries to suggest there might be a reward for this particular book.
OOC: Knowledge, Local, DC 20: 30 success Profession, Librarian: 33
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 Friday June 21st, 2019 4:55:27 PM
Micah takes the time in the guild to relax, pondering what they have learned and trying to think of the best way to follow the thug without endangering his family any more than necessary.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+17=22 ; d20+5=18 ; Saturday June 22nd, 2019 9:08:50 AM
Sid carves the coin into Micah's likeness. He looks as Z and Stohp for a long moment, but decides it should be some that more closely resembles the figure on it. He ages it a bit and is satisfied with his work.
At the library his eyes go wide and he looks at what titles he can, cooing to himself.
========================================================= So, I'm sorry I missed so much this week. It was a weird one.
For the coin:
Sid will take the image and match it to the closest person of the party. Assuming a human he chose Micah, but he will make the most logical choice for the picture itself. Oh, and if it is an Elven figure he will of course make it look like Elly.
Craft(Coin): 22 Knowledge(History): 18
DM Robert - "We don't exactly look like their normal customer." Saturday June 22nd, 2019 11:49:09 AM
Sid has made a good likeness of Micah on the coin. But not one that would stand out unless closely examined. This would be the perfect coin for anyone that wanted to cast Locate Object upon. A little time spent memorizing and holding the coin would do nicely to get a lock on it.
Gargamel eye's Dorbin. "You're saying it's stolen?" Gargamel sighs and wipes his nose. "Statue 14b subsection 13 states that anyone that tries to make a profit in return of stolen goods is subject to de facto after the fact accessory of said stolen goods." He sighs again and hops off his stool. "Wait here." He goes off and is gone for ten minutes and then returns. He is carrying a book and several papers. He plops the book down on the counter and flips the papers down next to it. "Sign here, initial here, and sign here." He indicates the appropriate locations. Knowledge Local 15 or Linguistics 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {These are pretty straight forward release of stolen documents forms. There is also a release to have said item removed from library records. And a third release stating that you are taking possession of said stolen item as a representative of the courts to return it to its rightful owners.}
Upon signing and initialing where indicated the book is turned over.
Gargel looks at Dorbin. "Is there anything else? He asks with a rather annoyed tone of voice. Sense Motive 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {It's not that he's really annoyed, just bothered that he has to man the desk and wait on others in general.} IF you made the roll above successfully then Knowledge Local 15 or Profession Sage 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Manning the desk at the hall of records is sometimes meted out as punishment to a Sages that have irked someone higher up. It can also be a duty someone volunteers for in order to gain access to materials not for general public consumption.}
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Sunday June 23rd, 2019 9:16:06 PM "Well that seemed pretty quick and easy," Bartomus said as he watched the old man eventually return with the book. He watched as Dorbin signed various forms and then got distracted by the settin gthey were in. It was a place he had never been before and it was just exciting to see another part of the Float that he hadn't realized existed before joining the Shields.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+15=17 ; d20+12=29 ; d20+12=25 ; Sunday June 23rd, 2019 9:49:46 PM
Sid's interest in the papers shifts as he thinks about Gargel's position. He looks at him for a moment with jealous and envious eyes. He looks around to see if there's anyone more than curious about them.
Knowledge(Local): 17 (I think I have more than a plus 15, but I'm not sure. I can't quite check my sheet right now)
Perception: 29 (I'm sure I have a plus 12)
((Please ignore the second one, it was a miss roll))
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 d20+5=11 ; Sunday June 23rd, 2019 10:07:11 PM
Micah inspects the coin Sid provides. "Nice job. This will work nicely," he thanks the elf as he focuses on committing it to memory.
=========== Auto success on sense motive DIsregard profession check. Just realized it can only be used trained.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Sunday June 23rd, 2019 11:27:09 PM "Where were we going to get the scrolls? Next building over right?"
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Monday June 24th, 2019 10:15:32 AM
When the librarian starts talking like a lawyer, Stock rolls his eyes so hard that you can almost hear them. Instead of listening in, he walks away and tries to take an interest in the architecture of the building.
"What? Yeah a scroll. Let's go find it. Come on Dorbin, keep up."
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+20=25 ; d20+2=3 ; Monday June 24th, 2019 11:55:21 AM
Dorbin recognizes the papers and quickly signs them. He thanks Gargamel profusely, but is distracted by their next goal and in trying to shield Gargamel from Stock's reaction, so he doesn't see Gargamel's mood. Instead he tries to hurry everyone along after grabbing the papers and book, "Yes, this way, we should be able to get a scroll pretty easily from this next hall over."
OOC: Linguistics, DC 15: 25 Success Sense Motive, DC 10: 3 Failure
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Monday June 24th, 2019 6:04:29 PM "Thank you good sir." Zander bows to the librarian as Dorbin escorts them away. "Well that was pretty easy. Good work Dorbin, I assume the forms were routine?"
ADM Zach subbing for DM Robert - "Next building over right?" Monday June 24th, 2019 8:40:28 PM
Stock would really rather not be wandering a library but he does find interest in a building that has been magically altered to fit more space than it physically has.
Bartomus happily wanders this new place, well new to him.
Dorbin shines everything to satisfaction and hurries everyone along before they cause any disruptions.
Zanderallen thanks the clerk and asks about the papers.
Stohp is ready to move to the next point on the agenda.
Sid looks around for trouble in the library, other than a grumpy old wizard two rows over yelling about getting the wrong addition of a tome nobody stands out.
Micah familiarizes himself with the coin for future spellcasting.
_______________________
Dorbin leads the Shields out of the Chamber of Records and towards the Chamber of Instruction. They all hope he knows the way through the seeming maze. Hallways and extra dimensional spaces don't always seem to line up. As they come across an intersection there is a loud crash and papers fly everywhere as Dorbin and another equally distracted wizard run full tilt into one another. He recognizes him as a young wizard named Fergus who joined the guild about the same time who up until the collision was carrying a mound of books and scrolls that are now scattered across the intersection. "Ah, w-w-watch out." He stammers before adjusting his spectacles and seeing the group he just ran into. He lets out a squeak and then starts apologizing as he bends over to pick up his papers, "S-s-s-sorry mil-l-lords and ladies. I sho-o-ould have been w-w-watching where I was g-g-g-going...."
Micah suppresses a smile at being called a lord and takes a surreptitious peak at Stock's reaction. To avert any more awkwardness, he bows slightly and courteously replies as if he truly were nobility, "No worries, friend mage. Please do not let us further disrupt your studies."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Monday June 24th, 2019 10:09:43 PM "It's fine, it happens." Stohp says amiably and she bends over to help collect the scattered objects.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Tuesday June 25th, 2019 9:30:13 AM "No harm, no foul. Hey Dorbin, you know this guy? He reminds me of you!" Stock's voice is definitely louder than it needs to be and certainly louder than it ought to be in this place.
You can't tell if he raised his voice on accident or on purpose.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Tuesday June 25th, 2019 12:41:10 PM
Dorbin starts picking up the papers and cringes, waiting to be yelled at by some superior, and is surprised when he hears Fergus' voice. He stops and looks up, saying, "Oh, hi there, Fergus! It's me, Dorbin!" He cringes when Stock talks so loud and glares at him a moment.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Tuesday June 25th, 2019 5:11:37 PM
Zanderallen grins and starts to help until he realizes there are more than enough people picking up papers and steps back to give every else room. "A friend of yours Dorbin? Pleased to meet you Fergus. Sorry about the bump, Dorbin has his hands full keeping us in line."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Tuesday June 25th, 2019 6:58:21 PM
Bartomus watched the two run into each other but couldn't do anything to stop it or warn them. He tried helping with picking up dropped items and holding them out to Fergus for his retrieval. "so any chance he has what we might be looking for? I mean this place is huge."
He still was trying to understand how something so big could fit into The Float which already was a wonder that caused his mind to just freeze in contemplative thought.
DM Robert - "We don't exactly look like their normal customer." Tuesday June 25th, 2019 8:07:03 PM
Micah diffuses the situation.
Stohp helps to pick things up.
Stock, for one so small, acts more like the bull in the china shop than the Taurs.
Dorbin greets Fregus.
Zanderallen tries to pass the time of day with Fergus.
Bartomus is still stunned at the weird arrangement of large things inside small things.
Sid?
___________
Fergus quickly retrieves his items and gives out some advice. "Hey Dorbin, how's the field work going? Guess you're in here for some instruction help?" Since you are now in the tower of instruction. "Watch out for old Elimster he's in a foul mood. You might check with some of Edvard's staff, he seems to be going light on them these days."
Dorbin leads the party through halls where you can see instruction rooms. As you pass one room you note that the professor there is in his late 30's dressed in a tweed jacket. There are a large number of females in the class. He seems to be archeology.
At last Dorbin comes to the rooms he was seeking, which were up another flight of stairs. He enters and there are 3 desks, one on each wall away from the door. Behind each desk is a person in black robes quietly writing on a scroll. They appear to be copying something from a large book on each of their desks. Going around the room to your left is a male halfling with curly blond hair. Across from you is a female dwarf with the blackest hair you've ever seen. On your right is a human male with chestnut brown hair.
The human finishes first and looks up. "Yes, may I help...you?" He stares at all you gathered in the doorway and in the hall.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Wednesday June 26th, 2019 9:18:06 AM
As Dorbin takes care of business, Stock walks over to Micah, "Hey man, I'm sorry your family has been pulled into this. We'll get this done. So let's make sure I understand the whole plan: We help your family pay the protection money with Sid's marked coin. We then follow the coin to some place where we bust in the doors and get even? Did I get that right? And after we get this scroll I guess we could try to pick up the final book from Lord Yeager?"
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Wednesday June 26th, 2019 12:10:22 PM
Dorbin clears his throat and says, "Greetings, I am Dorbin, Associate Sage of the Chamber of Records. I have need of a scroll with a spell to locate an object on it. Would you be able to help me with that item?"
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Wednesday June 26th, 2019 4:38:25 PM
Wishing Fergus a good day, Zander continues following Dorbin. He makes a mental note to take some archeology classes at some point soon. He stays away from the tomes, afraid to damage what he assumes to be spell books.
(OOC: ELMINSTER! You can't hide behind poor spelling.)
Micah nods in appreciation as Stock expresses his sympathy, but the nod quickly changes direction to indicate negation as the dwarf continues with his interpretation of the plan.
Before responding, however, he stops his head's motion altogether, responding thoughtfully "At first, I thought your summary of the plan is a bit abrupt, but you may actually have it. I would clarify that "even" is not our likely objective here. It is "answers". We need to find out who is pulling the strings. The coin and its possessor might not lead us directly to our objective, but, hopefully, it will give us some further leads to follow. Then," he continues with a smile, "we get even."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Wednesday June 26th, 2019 7:07:04 PM
Bartomus followed along with the others in line behind Dorbin. "so are there like scrolls that can turn me into a dragon about here? I mean being a dragon would be cool I would think, just for a little while of course. "
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Wednesday June 26th, 2019 7:15:53 PM
Stohp is all business, pulling out a coin pouch to be ready for the inevitable payment request.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20=19 ; Wednesday June 26th, 2019 7:26:18 PM
Sid quietly walks through the halls with a somber reverence. Here was a path he didn't walk, couldn't have really. He felt the stub of his missing pinky and the callouses of his hands and smiles a bit. Whatever the maybes would have been, the reality of it was a good one.
DM Robert - "And after we get this scroll I guess we could try to pick up the final book from Lord Yeager?" Wednesday June 26th, 2019 8:50:49 PM
Stock asks about the plans for the day.
Dorbin asks for the locate object scroll.
Zander considers taking an archeology class some day.
Micah considers and agrees with Stock's assessment of the plan.
Bartomus ask about a scroll to turn him into a dragon.
Stohp pulls out a bag to make some payments.
Sid contemplates the choices of life's paths and the quirks of fate. - - - OOC it wasn't bad spelling, it was deliberately misspelled to see if anyone would pick up on it. Apparently no one caught the other famous D&D wizard reference.
The human looks at Dorbin. "Now were you wanting a scroll or were you just wanting to add the spell to your existing spell book?" He pauses and then continues. "Now a scroll of that spell would cost 150 gold pieces, but if you wished to copy the spell to your spell book it is only 40 gold pieces."
The dwarf pipes up. "Shut up Skeeve, you're costing us money, he asked for a scroll sell him a scroll."
Skeeve, the human, rolls his eyes. [/b]"Azh, you know that good service leads to repeat customers."[/b]
Skeeve awaits Dorbin's answer.
The dwarf, Azh, then turns to Bartomus. "A scroll to turn yourself into a dragon? Well for that you'd need Greater Polymorph. Yes sir, only 2,275 gold, ready for any competent Arcane caster."
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+13=27 ; Thursday June 27th, 2019 10:58:00 AM
Dorbin smiles at the discussion between the two. He replies, "Indeed, Azh, as a member of this fine institution, I do appreciate all the opportunities that can be had here and can understand the desire for not just learning, but for finding ways to help finance that learning." He turns and starts walking along the wall as he continues, "Yes, while learning for learning's sake is a fine endeavor, how can one sustain such a pace when there is no financing? Yet if there is financing, the would not the financee be indebted to, and even beholden to, the financer? And would that no disrupt the entire process of independent exploration and discovery of magics?"
Dorbin has accidentally slipped into teaching mode (profession, teacher: 27) and starts a lecture on how research can be independent and self-financed. He starts to go on and into what might be an hours-long lecture, but then he catches himself and stops. He says, "Yes, then, perhaps I would have both -- the scroll and the copy for the spellbook so that I can both provide more financing to this august institution and have a longer-term investment in my own studies."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Thursday June 27th, 2019 2:51:41 PM
Zander stares dumbfounded at his young companion as he launches into full lecture mode. Where has this side been hiding?, he thinks. "Bart, you as a dragon terrifies me a little. But I'm sure it would scare our enemies even more. But I guess first we need to find them which goes back to needed the locate object spell."
Micah finds himself suppressing a smile yet again as Dorbin goes to the head of the class. To pass the time, he watches the scholars curious as to what their reactions are.
============ Sense motive 26 to see how the scholars react to Professor Dorbin
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Thursday June 27th, 2019 4:59:21 PM "Really," he said as he turned to the dwarven wizard. He pulled open his cinched purse after fussing it out from his tunic. He saw the glint of gold and gems, thought for a moment, then rubbed his chin. "Next time I guess, but that seems like a great thing to even know it exists. Probably don't have the skills to cast it, but guys we could be dragons. Wouldn't that be cool?"
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Thursday June 27th, 2019 7:29:36 PM
Sid smiles and listens to Dorbin's mini-lecture and nods. "I love it when he forgets to be shy," he mutters. "Yeah Bart, that would be cool. We should have a dragon adventure at some point! I've always wanted to be a Gold Dragon."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Thursday June 27th, 2019 7:30:05 PM
Stohp finds the idea rather silly. [b]"No, we wouldn't fit into any of the buildings, probably not even any of the streets. I prefer not to pin myself in so tightly to a place that I'm defenseless Not to mention the panic of a dragon suddenly flying around town. Maybe while we were out in the woods, but not in a crowded city.."[b]
DM Robert - "And after we get this scroll I guess we could try to pick up the final book from Lord Yeager?" Thursday June 27th, 2019 8:24:04 PM
Dorbin pontificates about fiscal policy.
Zander is in awe of Dorbin and a little wary of Bartomus the dragon.
Micah watches the other scholars.
Bartomus is really wondering what it would be like to be a dragon. You are right you don't it is strictly an arcane spell.
Sid agrees with Bartomus.
Stohp is more prudent about being a dragon. ----------
Micah watches the scholars and notes Ahz's bored expression and Skeeve rolling his eyes slightly. Only the female seems inclined to pay attention to Dorbin.
Skeeve smiles at Dorbin, "Okay you can use my desk while I go get the scroll."
Ahz pipes up, "That will be 190 gold bub." Then he looks over at Bartomus. "Dragon's ain't all that, and you really don't want a young one as a pet. Dealing with mature dragons is dangerous and can get you in all kinds of trouble. And the overhead of trying to appease one. Don't get me started." He shakes his head.
Skeeve comes back with a book and a scroll. Dorbin will have to stay here to copy the spell, he can't take the book with him. Dorbin must spend 1 hour studying the spell from the book. Then he will need to make a Spellcraft check of 17 to successfully copy the spell.
What are the rest of you going to do while Dorbin is occupied? You could make a run to Lord Yeager. You could go into the library and read a book or a newspaper. You could ask the scholars random questions, but they may charge for the answer.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Friday June 28th, 2019 9:32:33 AM "Dorbin, as much as I've enjoyed the opportunity to visit the Sage's guild, I'd like to head over to Yeager and see about that final book. This is starting to feel like a series of Float Express Delivery adventures. HA!...anybody else want to come?"
Unless he faces total opposition and will be going on his own, Stock will head out to find Lord Yeager.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Friday June 28th, 2019 9:57:08 AM "So, no dragon as a pet, but some folks could change into a dragon. So, are there like small dragon like things that maybe a person could change into? That might be fun to try, was fun to be tiny zephyr." Bartomus was geninuenly interested in what Ahz had shared.
When Stock mentioned finding the final book, Bartomus nodded, but looked about and then back at the learned dwarf. "I think I gotta go, but hey, would you all happen to have some like old, first settlement of the Float old, maps of the areas around the lake? See we keep coming across these things, like the Folk and then the black building thing. It kinda seems like there should be something kept by someone about some of these things."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Friday June 28th, 2019 1:58:01 PM "Hold up their Stock, if you're going to meet Lord Yeager somebody with manners better go with you. Don't want the guards getting reports of dwarves breaking into houses, stealing paintings, and eating children would we? We'll meet you back in the entrance hall Dorbin."
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+17=32 ; Friday June 28th, 2019 5:46:13 PM
Dorbin's eyes light up and he quickly takes a seat when the documents are presented. He barely listens as Stock mentions heading off somewhere else. Without looking up from the words on the page, he nods and waves, clearly focused on his work (Spellcraft: 32).
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Friday June 28th, 2019 6:31:44 PM
Stohp heads along with the rest, commenting to Bart along the way, "If you're really that fascinated by the idea then investigate the Dragon Disciples. They devote themselves to draconic lore and the most powerful can turn into dragons at will, so I've heard. Still seems impractical to me."
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Friday June 28th, 2019 11:00:49 PM
"I'll stay with Dorbin and we'll meet you at Lord Yaeger's. We shouldn't just leave one of us like that right now. Besides, I'd like to do a little research myself."
He goes up to the sages and says, "Barkeep! I'ld like anything on Fae Skymeir if you please, and if there are any books of Elven, Halfling, or Orcish poems of love I'd like one of those as well."
If pressed he will mention that while he was traveling through the Twilight Vale he saw a city that resembled Fae Skymeir and that he wants what research he can find =======================================================================
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 Saturday June 29th, 2019 9:33:17 AM
Micah nods in agreement as Sid offers to stay with Dorbin. "I propose an alternative suggestion, Sid. You and Dorbin should stay here and wait until we return. Things are a bit," he pauses to look at the nearby sages before continuing, "tense. It would be safer for you two to wait for us."
Assuming agreement, he joins the others who are going to Yeager's.
DM Robert - "And after we get this scroll I guess we could try to pick up the final book from Lord Yeager?" Saturday June 29th, 2019 9:53:25 AM
Stock wants to head out.
Bartomus is ready to go with Stock but asks if there are real old maps of the surrounding country side.
Zander doesn't want Stock to be the voice of the party when going to Yeager's.
Dorbin plops down and starts to study.
Sid asks for some books by insulting the scholars.
Micah is set to see Yeager as well.
++++++++++++
Ahz tells Bartomus, "You need to go to research-main library."
Ahz gives Sid a look that could melt bricks. "Barkeep? Barkeep?" He gets up from his chair.
Skeeve steps over to him and whispers. Perception 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {"Remember we're just here trying find out some information and letting me get some research time in. Don't blow it."} He then turns to Sid. "I'm afraid you're in the wrong place for that. You will need to return to the library if you want to check out books. This is strictly arcane scrolls and the like."
OOC - Sid can either chill while Dorbin studies or go to the Library. However, I got nothing on Fae Skymeir and thus you will find nothing in the library. OOC 2 - There are no maps of the surrounding region. It's our DM design area and even from when I came on board it has changed.
The rest of the gang heads over to Lord Yeager's. His mansion is impressive but in good taste. Unfortunately he is occupied at the moment. The servant ushers you into a billiard room and brings some scones, hot chocolate, coffee, and tea. The butler informs you that you may take your leisure here while you wait. Perception 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {It's a nice room, several nice chairs, even a few taur sized chairs. The billiard table is sturdy and looks to be well made. There are several pool ques, a scoring board, and all the usual stuff you would find in a pool room but on a high class scale.}
After waiting approximately thirty minutes Yeager comes into the room. He is well dressed seems in a good mood. "Gentlemen and lady, to what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?" Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {He appears to be dressed in a business suit. You note that his shoes bear the marks of walking about on the streets.}
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+12=32 ; d20+12=18 ; d20+12=26 ; Saturday June 29th, 2019 2:47:31 PM "Library, ok, maybe next trip, don't want to get separated from the others," Bartomus said after a focused clarity on the side conversation that was going on that he wished sometimes to have while in the field. "Pretty impressive place you all have here, glad to visit with you both, and see you in a bit Dorbin."
He followed along with the group to Yeager's mansion. He looked about at the finery as they were lead into a billiard's room with its well carved table topped in a rich cloth. After taking a cup and filling it with tea, he walked over to the table and held up one of the billiard balls in his hand. He put it down and sent it in motion towards the other end of the table. "We should get one of these for our place, bet a few of us could work together to even carve the legs and such. Someone really knew their craft making this and those."
He had pointed at the cues. He walked about a few times and then took a seat in one of the taur sized chairs, nodding in approval at the chair as well. "A very nice room indeed."
When the well dressed man walked into the room, his bearing making it very clear that he was the lord of this manor, Bartomus put his last bit of tea aside and rose. He quickly looked over the "Your lordship, a beautiful place you have here. Was it a pleasant walk back?"
Perception 32 - though think that was aimed at someone else; P = 18; P 26 - Bartomus seems to be in the zone for a moment at least.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+12=24 ; Sunday June 30th, 2019 11:35:03 AM
He looks at them and says, "I'm sorry, I can be such a klahd when it comes to social situations. This is just a pervect mythunderstanding. I really don't get to come to the library often. I'll just be quietly waiting for my friend."
Sid goes and sits down and pulls out one of the books he borrowed from the WLA library in Old High Woldian.
Micah waits patiently for the master of the house, taking a rest in one of the fine chairs.
When Lord Yeagar enters he rises in response. Speaking deferentially, he gets quickly to the point, "Lord Yeagar, we apologize for the intrusion. We have been helping Daneel at Rosebud to recover items stolen by Sir Stephen Imbry. It appears that one of those items may have been sold to you, a book titled [Pharoah]. Is our information correct, that you have it?" He pauses politely awaiting a response.
=============== diplomacy 30 to garner a favorable reaction from Yeagar. Sense Motive 29 to gauge his reaction
Perception 11 fail perception 16 fail
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+13=14 ; d20+13=21 ; Monday July 1st, 2019 9:35:17 AM
Stock is still studying the carvings on the legs of the billiards table when the others begin talking. He straightens and does his best to look serious but not too imposing. "Hello Lord Yeager. Remind me where again you purchased this book?...Do you often take interest in old books?"
========= Perception 14...ugh Perception 21
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Monday July 1st, 2019 12:24:51 PM
Dorbin continues copying and studying the scroll and book. He mumbles to himself often but never looks up or around.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=14 ; d20+5=25 ; Monday July 1st, 2019 4:50:31 PM
Zanderallen waits patiently, he has no expectation of being the top of Lord Yaeger's schedule. When he enters, Zander notes his attire and shoes but does little except bow respectfully as Micah takes the situation in hand. ---------------- Perception 14 vs 15 fail Perception 25 (NAT 20!) vs 20 success
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Monday July 1st, 2019 6:27:44 PM
Stohp lets Micah do the talking since he's been really good about remembering what they're getting at each location. She has trouble keeping the list strait in her head (or maybe that's just her player :P)
DM Robert - "Do you often take interest in old books?" Monday July 1st, 2019 8:18:13 PM
Bartomus complements Yeager and asks about his walk.
Sid displays remarkable clarity of mind.
Micah asks about the book and watches for a reaction.
Stock wades in almost demanding where the book was purchased.
Dorbin gets down to business. You have succeeded.
Zanderallend remains quiet.
Stohp lets Micah do the talking.
- - -
Lord Yeager's eyebrows go up at Bartomus's inquiry. "Well walking is the oldest mode of transportation, and it's not like all of us have time and resources to scare up a magic carpet ride." Sense Motive 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Well he neatly deflected answering where he has been.}
Micah's question is out the blue (for Yeager). Micah notes that Lord Yeager seems momentarily puzzled and perhaps somewhat taken aback. "Sir Imbry was a thief?" He seems stunned somewhat. "Well I guess there's no end to the lengths someone will do once they have strayed to that path." He pauses lost in thought. Perception 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { Lord Yeager's eye's are unfocused and almost glazed over.} Sense Motive 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Lord Yeager has left something unsaid, you think he is having a personal moment or memory.}
Stock's comment breaks in and Lord Yeager arches one eye brow as he turns a penetrating stare toward Stock. "I would not say I'm an avid collector or reader. As to where I acquired it, it was most likely on the merchant level somewhere. I don't remember exactly where." He signs, "Never the less if it is stolen property then by rights it must be returned."
He goes to a wall and pulls on a hanging rope. As this is the second high end fancy house you've been in you're getting the sense that these ropes in the rooms serve as some sort of signalling system. The butler walks in. Lord Yeager turn to him, "Smithers would you look in the library for a book called Pharaoh. I believe it has a blue cover." Smithers nods and turns smartly around and leaves. A few minutes later he returns bearing the book.
Lord Yeager takes the book and looks at it. "I remember this, it's the story of a group of adventurers in the desert looking for lost treasure and having to deal with a long dead pharoh, that's not quiet dead." He shrugs. "Unfortunately this is part of a trilogy, I'm not sure how the it turns out, this is the first book of a trilogy." He hands the book to Micah. Perception 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {This book matches perfectly the description you have of the stolen property.}
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+12=20 ; d20+12=17 ; d20+8=18 ; d20+12=21 ; Tuesday July 2nd, 2019 12:06:35 AM
Bartomus felt that he hadn't really gotten an answer but got distracted by the questions of the others and then the arrival of the book.
"So, was the story a thing of fancy or was it a retelling of something that might have occurred?" He asked after hearing that there was more to the story.
Perception 20; 17; SM 18; Perc 21
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+6=18 ; d20+13=30 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+13=27 ; Tuesday July 2nd, 2019 10:45:09 AM "Fascinating", Stock deadpans. Eyebrow raised, he asks "Have you ever been to an establishment called Sturgeus Selling?"
====== Sense Motive 18 Perception 30 Sense Motive 15 Perception 27
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Tuesday July 2nd, 2019 11:56:43 AM
Dorbin finishes up his writing then sits back to admire his work. He smiles and nods as he checks to ensure he's got everything correct. He finally looks around and notices that nearly everyone else has left. He looks confused and says, "Hey, where did everyone else go?"
Micah realizes he was a bit unkind with his brusqueness, exposing Lord Yeagar to unexpected and shocking news, and attempts to make amends, "I must apologize for my bluntness. I was, after all, raised in a smithy and things tend to be a bit... direct there." He pauses to watch his reaction, then continues, "You reference 'a path' that Sir Imbry set upon. What path is that, if I may continue to be so bold as to ask?"
When Stock blurts out his question, Micah barely manages to suppress his own reaction, rather, he focuses on Yeagar's.
As he watches and listens, Micah considers the fact that Yeagar immediately knew the book and its location and did not hesitate to acknowledge that it was stolen property.
As he accepts the book, he bows and acknowledges the giving of the book, "Thank you, Sir Yeagar. Your honor in this circumstance is worthy of admiration and a testimony to your good name."
======== SM >10 Perception 24 vs DC 25 fail Sm 38 vs DC 20 succeed Perception 21 vs DC 10
SM 26 to gauge Yeagar's reaction to mention of Sturgeous (where's that 20 roll now?)
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+14=19 ; d20+5=17 ; d20+14=31 ; d20+5=22 ; Tuesday July 2nd, 2019 5:15:04 PM
Zanderallen has a very brief image in his head of how to make a dwarf muzzle but his mind moves in other directions as he notes a few possible irregularities in Lord Yeager's answers. Maybe it was just a noble being a noble but someone on the council was involved in nefarious business. He really wanted to get to the bottom of this mystery, because at the end of it was somebody that probably needed punching. ------------------------------- Sense Motive 19 vs 10 success Perception 17 vs 25 failure Sense Motive 31 vs 20 success Perception 22 vs 10 success
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Tuesday July 2nd, 2019 6:15:50 PM
Sid looks up from his book, "Oh, they went to see Lord Yeager for more questioning. I'm just here to make sure you have back up if there are any issues. You know," Sid waves a hand, "This whole thing. I'm not sure if we are supposed to meet them there or what though. Didn't think about that. One moment while I finish this paragraph."
Sid takes a minute to finish the section, notes where he stopped and stands, stretching a bit. "Alright, I'm ready. To Yeager's then?"
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Tuesday July 2nd, 2019 7:13:24 PM
Stohp is not particularly interested in the lord or his doings, her mind has already moved on from these errands to the tracking of the half-orc that was probably not an orc of any sort. It'll be good to finally know Crimson isn't a threat, though they have to be careful not to screw it up and let him evade them again.
DM Robert - "Do you often take interest in old books?" Tuesday July 2nd, 2019 8:35:19 PM
Bartomus asks about the book.
Stock starts asking about Sturgeus Selling and if Yeager has been there.
Dorbin finishes his spell.
Micah puts in some extra questions.
Zanderallen wonders if the dwarf knows the meaning of tact.
Sid finishes reading his paragraph.
Stock concentrating on the quest ahead.
----------- Lord Yeager shrugged and as he answered Bartomus. "Well it's billed as fiction but you never know. They say truth is stranger than fiction."
Stock's abrupt questions causes Lord Yeager to straighten. "Sturgeus Selling? I don't recall the name. Where is that?" Sense Motive 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {He seems a little put off by the dwarf's candor, but you don't think he's lying.}
He nods to Micah. "As I understand it you, adventurer types are often rather to the point." He smiles wanly. He pauses a little with Micah's question about Sir Imbry. Perception 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {He's fidgeting with a ring he's wearing, turning it around on his finger over and over.} If you made the above roll successfully... Perception 25. Highlight to display spoiler: {The ring appears to be a large type ring. There appears to be an emblem on it that looks like a diamond.} If you made the second perception check above then..Knowledge Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {It appears to be a common lodge type ring, or perhaps a signet ring. You do know there is a club on this level referred to as the Diamond Club.}
He answers Micah. "I guess you could call it the path to fast fortune. Imbry was a gambler, but not a very good one. He often bet big at the table and would have to pay off an IOU later." He shakes his head sadly. Sense Motive 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {There seems to be something else troubling him, besides Imbry. Maybe something on a more personal manner than what he has revealed.}
"Well then if there is nothing more Smithers will see you out."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+8=24 ; d20+12=30 ; d20+12=23 ; d20+8=11 ; Wednesday July 3rd, 2019 10:19:59 AM
Bartomus laughed at the response from Yeager, "Yea, yea, I get that. Could even say have lived that." He listened to the exchange with the others, noticed that the Lord spun the ring he was wearing about his finger and Bartomus turned to look at the ring he was wearing and remembered how he got it. Yea, truth can be a lot stranger than fiction," he thought to himself.
"Well, it's been a pleasure to visit your beautiful estate," Bartomus said with a large smile as he rose from his taur sized padded chair.
SenMot 24; Per 30; Per 23 - failed; listening to Micah SenMot - 11 failed
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Wednesday July 3rd, 2019 11:56:16 AM
Dorbin shrugs and takes a last look around. He says to Sid, "Sure, let's go find them."
Micah perceives that Yeagar honestly has not heard of Sturgeous and is begrudgingly grateful to Stock for creating the opportunity to test the noble's character and relieved that the result appears to have been a positive one.
"Ahhh," replies Micah. "We have become aware of Sir Imbry's unfortunate addiction. His downfall should be a lesson for us all."
Micah then waits for the others, prepared to say his goodbye when appropriate.
================ Sense Motive 36 vs 25 Perception 11 vs 15 Sense Motive 20 vs 25
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+14=16 ; d20+5=21 ; d20+5=23 ; d20+14=21 ; Wednesday July 3rd, 2019 2:46:54 PM
Zander reads the all clear signs Micah's demeanor is giving off and makes his goodbyes, "Thank you for your assistance in this unfortunate task, it is a pleasure to work with an honorable man. We will not take anymore of your time." Bowing he takes the book and follows Smithers out. Once they have departed the mansion Zander turns to his fellow shields, "My guess is he got the book from Imbry in payment for gambling debt. He doesn't seem to be involved in the shadier side of this deal. Let's go meet back up with Sid and Dorbin." --------------------- SM 16 vs 25 fail Percep 21 vs 15 success Percep 23 vs 25 fail SM 21 vs 25 fail
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+12=23 ; Wednesday July 3rd, 2019 7:04:22 PM
Sid waves as they leave and he follows Dorbin out, keeping a watch as they go.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Wednesday July 3rd, 2019 7:33:07 PM Gambling has been the ruin of many a man. Have a good day sir."
DM Robert - "Gambling has been the ruin of many a man." Wednesday July 3rd, 2019 8:19:03 PM
Bartomus readies to go.
Dorbin leaves the Sage's Guild.
Micah is ready to go.
Zanderallen takes the book and is ready to go.
Sid leaves with Dorbin.
Stohp bids Yeager good day. -----------
As Smithers leads you out he seems distant and does not really respond to you. Sense Motive 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {You get the feeling he does not like you.}
It is a quiet walk to the exit, even though it is relatively close. The house itself is quiet. Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You note paintings along the wall. There are two that seem to jump out at you, Lord Yeager as a younger man, with a lovely woman on his arm and a small boy standing in front of them. The second painting show's a somewhat older Yeager (but still younger than he is now). There is a young man next to him wearing the military uniform (of an officer) of The Float. Yeager's smile is present but the eyes show sadness.}
Smithers opens the door for you but you note he does not bow to you. Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {He is downright glaring at you.}
You stand on the threshold.
Sid and Dorbin are walking in the street and spot Lord Yeager's house. The rest of the party seems to be standing at the threshold of the doorway.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+8=24 ; d20+12=29 ; d20+12=31 ; Wednesday July 3rd, 2019 10:16:06 PM
Bartomus walked and kept his eyes dancing about the halls as he took in the mansion. He noticed the portraits of Lord Yeager. He seemed to have had a wife and son, then just the son. Bartomus wondered where the son was serving. That might be worth pursuing.
As the approached the now opened door, Smithers was glaring at him. "Well my good sir, truly a pleasure. Always wanted to see the inside of one of these places. Shields may need to visit again, so it's nice to know the lay of the place. Do hope that your day improves, I mean must be hard work holding doors and such for the people of the float."
He smiles with a big grin as he walked outside. A few steps away from the door, he turned slightly and waved at the glaring doorman. As they walked away he shared a thought, "Yeagar lost his wife it seems, but his son served, if not still serving, with the Float's guard. Could be a person to learn more about." [i]SenMot-24; Perc 29, Perc 31
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+6=20 ; d20+13=15 ; d20+13=22 ; Thursday July 4th, 2019 9:26:07 AM "Exxxxcellent, Smithers. We will have to do this again sometime." He then nods and makes his way to the exit.
"OK. We got the book and I'm glad Bart got something else out of that situation? I could not read that guy. at. all. The nobles in this town keep things close. Now looking at my datebook, it doesn't look like we have anything after we drop off this book until tomorrow's meeting with the Smith's, right?"
========= Sense Motive from Yesterday - I know I missed posting but I really wanted to hit that one for some reason Perception 15, 22
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+14=34 ; d20+5=8 ; d20+5=6 ; Thursday July 4th, 2019 1:46:05 PM
Zander picks up on Smither's dislike and chuckles at his party members antics. He restrains himself from adding to the abuse. Poor man probably thought they were beneath the honor of the house. Once they are clear he spots Dorbin and Sid and walks over to join them. "Got the scroll? Good. Let's drop this book off at Rosebuds and then we're clear until the setup at the Smiths. Lord Yeager doesn't seem to be involved with any of the Lord Crimson plot but I would guess he sat at the gambling table with Sir Imbry. Probably got the book as payment for gambling debt. I wonder if Lukas knows anything about his son?" --------------------- SM 34 Percep 8 Percep 6
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Thursday July 4th, 2019 1:49:05 PM
Dorbin trots up to the others and replies, "Yes, indeed, we have the scroll. We're ready to go. Now where we were going again?"
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Thursday July 4th, 2019 6:05:59 PM "Now we make sure everything is set up with Micah's family. And go eat lunch probably."
DM Robert - "Gambling has been the ruin of many a man." Thursday July 4th, 2019 8:11:31 PM
Bartomus takes a verbal jab at Smithers and notes the paintings.
Stock tries to sum up the agenda.
Zander thinks Lord Yeager is in the clear with regards to Crimson.
Dorbin joins the gang.
Stohp is ready to find that half-orc. ------------
The party goes down the stairs to the merchant level. There they stop by Rosebud Publishing and drop off the last of the stolen items to be found in the float. Miss Daneel is overjoyed with your efforts. She again asks the party about maybe a group auto biography. But the consensus seems to be that it would be better for the group to remain in somewhat of an anonymous state.
Stohp is ready for some lunch and the group heads down the stairs again. This time they stop in at the Giggling Ghost for some luncheon. The meal is good and tasty if only simple fair.
Now the group can head for home, and wait until tomorrow. Perhaps to discuss plans on how to follow the notorious bald half-orc. Will they all be waiting at Smith's Smithy, or stationed along the routes around corners. Or will they just allow things to happen and then use the spell to home in on the coin.
Or maybe to inquire about Yeager's son being/have been in the Float's guard. There's Lucas to question about that, but there's also Rodrigo.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Friday July 5th, 2019 8:34:43 AM "How about we talk with Rod about Yeager's son? If he doesn't know anything, I'm sure we'll see Lucas tomorrow."
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 d20+18=25 ; d20+5=19 ; d20+5=10 ; Friday July 5th, 2019 11:31:07 AM
Micah remains silent at Smithers apparent distaste for them. He understands the jabs of the others, but chooses not to join in.
He does a double take at Bart's announcement about the wife and son, and asks, "What are you talking about? How do you know that?
======================= Sense Motive 25 Perception 19 Perception 10
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Friday July 5th, 2019 2:29:02 PM "oh, I am guessing based upon those paintings we passed by as we left. First seemed to he a family portrait, while the second showed only the fastest and son. Of course something else could have happened to the woman in the first one. You know parting ways as n DC such. "
Bartomus shrugged.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Friday July 5th, 2019 6:30:39 PM
Dorbin says, "Rrrrodrigo. RRrrrodrrrrigo. That is fun to say. Rodrrrrrrrigo..."
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Friday July 5th, 2019 6:55:01 PM
"Hey, is that all of them? How many more of these things are there?"
DM Robert - "Rrrrodrigo. RRrrrodrrrrigo." Saturday July 6th, 2019 10:41:51 AM
Stock is for finding out about Yeager's son.
Micah wonders how Bartomus knows all that.
Bartomus explains some deductive reasoning from looking at the portraits.
Dorbin calls for Rodrigo.
Sid is wondering if that is it.
=====
Rodrigo comes over to the Shields. When asked about Yeager's son, he pauses and then begins pacing a little. "Yes, I remember him. It was when I was first coming onto the Guards. This was some time ago, 5 or 6 years ago. He was made captain after only 6 months service. He was a good man but became involved with a..." He pauses and considers how to word it. "Let us say a woman of ill repute, or perhaps bad reputation. She was milking him for gifts and information. It turns out she was working with the thieves guild and using what she learned to help the guild rob everyone, but I get ahead of myself. Yeager could not afford her taste on his salary, and from what I understand he could not get the money from his father because he objected to the women. So he turned to gambling. Initially he had good luck but then it started going bad. It was about then that his superiors found out about the woman he was with being part of the thieves guild." Rodrigo stops and faces you he continues. "Captain Yeager was disgraced. He was banished." Rodrigo shrugs. "Needless to say there was quite the crackdown on the thieves guild after that."
The party has returned all the stolen goods they can. It is a time for contemplation and preparation for the great sting operation.
[i]i.e. you guys need to decide how you want to approach the coin exchange. Perhaps to discuss plans on how to follow the notorious bald half-orc. Will they all be waiting at Smith's Smithy, or stationed along the routes around corners. Or will they just allow things to happen and then use the spell to home in on the coin.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Saturday July 6th, 2019 11:43:17 AM "We need to have someone following him if possible. He might pass the coin off to an employer, or if we're unlucky buy something with it on the way home. With my own hat of disguise I can follow him without being recognized."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Sunday July 7th, 2019 12:50:34 AM "Using both is probably a good idea. Hand off the coin to him with the payment, and the Stohp follows along. Be nice if we could talk with you Stohp as yo ufollow along. " Bartomus said as they continued on. "We may need to get a sense of where they are operating out of and with whom to know what makes the most sense in taking this goon squad out of the Float."
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Monday July 8th, 2019 9:46:04 AM
"[b]I'm not really one for disguises...and I feel we're probably too recognizable to just pretend to be guards or something. That being said, do we have any way to be invisible? I think I have one potion although it probably won't last too long. I would think Sid and Stohp could effectively tail the bad guys after they leave. Bart - Can't you turn into a bird or a squirrel or something? I might like to be in a back room of the Smith's shop, listening in as best as I can."[b]
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Monday July 8th, 2019 3:00:38 PM
Dorbin says, "Can I see the coin? I need to study it carefully." As he looks at the coin, memorizing the details, he continues, "The spell will only last for a short time. I can sense the direction of the coin, but that is all. In fact, we may want to not even cast the spell until after we're sure we've lost him, or even later."
"Good point, Dorbin," agrees Micah, "You and I can both have the spell ready to cast and take turns as needed to give us more time. I will also have see invisibility ready to cast in case that is how he disappears. Dorbin, I believe you know the message cantrip. Dirk used that to help us coordinate while spread out.
"Do we have an idea of his likely route? If so, we could post lookouts there who could report to Dorbin should he go that way.
"Stohp, with her hat, should definitely be the primary tail, but Sid would be effective at it, too."
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Monday July 8th, 2019 6:46:15 PM
"I agree that Stohp should be our gal on the street. I'll be on the street and follow quietly from an oblique angle. If it works they won't expect to be surrounded, but we'll see. That sound good to everyone?"
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 Monday July 8th, 2019 7:04:19 PM "Sid and Stohp will be our eyes on the street, tail the bad guy. Stock, I think we should stay with MIcah and Dorbin be their eyes while they focus on their spells. Plus that keeps us out of the way. Bart you can group with us or if you want to go wild and follow him incognito."
DM Robert - "Stohp, with her hat, should definitely be the primary tail, but Sid would be effective at it, too." Monday July 8th, 2019 8:18:58 PM
Stohp suggests she follow them using her own hat of disguise.
Bartomus thinks that's a good idea.
Stock soundly realizes that he may be pretty recognizable. OOC actually on the Fence level I would agree, but the merchant level is different. You're known as a group there, but not immediately recognizable. Plus the merchant level gets a lot of traffic from outside the Float as well due to the portal to Plateau City.
Dorbin asks to study the coin.
Micah asks if they have any kind of likely route.OOC see below...
Sid thinks that he can tail them indirectly.
Zander thinks the group has the workings of a plan. ====
There is much discussion about what to do. The plan sounds like it's solidifying. However, there are some points that general discussion brings out. First off, you need to get the coin to Micah's father before payment time. It's likely Crimson's men would at least be alert as to who you are and you don't want to be hanging around the Smithy at that time. At least you suppose Crimson's men would have a description of you, after all any competent evil villain would be sure to alert his underlings about the heroes that have caused him, or her, trouble in the past.
As to what route the "half-orc": would take. You really don't remember the map on Lestrade's office very well. Do you risk going back and asking to get a copy or making your own copy while there?
However, you get the nagging feeling you've heard of this before. Then it pops into someone's head. Pepper Plate was speaking to Zanderallen when she said "Well okay Mr. High and Mighty. I think I've got their routine established, I'll just follow them tomorrow." That's right she said she has their (the 'insurance sales men/Protection Racket guys) shop visit routine figured out and she's going to be following them tomorrow.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+12=25 ; Monday July 8th, 2019 8:24:08 PM
Stohp lets the others drop off the coin. She puts her extensive wardrobe to good use. Sure she'll be using the hat, but best to use a standard disguise with magical assistance. She takes the time to get it right (if she can take 10 or 20 then she has +22 between her skill and the hat (32 for 10, 42 for take 20), otherwise 35 for disguise)
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Tuesday July 9th, 2019 10:09:00 AM "I could figure out something that wouldn't be seen as odd bouncing about the Float," Bartomus nodded at Stock. He thought a bit longer and came up with a few ideas, "[/b]maybe a cat or could try to be a bit of dancing wind again, that was a lot of fun actually. So yea, that's an option for sure."[/b]
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Tuesday July 9th, 2019 10:09:10 AM OoC: Regardless of if Stohp takes 10 or 20
Stock looks at the woman that his brain is telling him is Stohp for a long time and says, "Yep. That will work. Now, getting the coin to the Smithy...I think either Sid could sneak in or Micah could go. Micah is a part of the family after all so it isn't totally unexpected he'd be there. Alternatively I do have a potion of invisibility that any of us could use to get in. Maybe we go visit Ms. Plate about documenting her suspected route too. I'm game for visiting her."
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Tuesday July 9th, 2019 1:02:48 PM
Dorbin continues to study the coin so he is sure that he will be able to follow it. He shares it with Micah and points out some of the features of the coin.
When Stock mentions visiting Pepper he says, "Sure, let's go see her."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+17=31 ; d4=2 ; d20+1=16 ; Tuesday July 9th, 2019 5:20:04 PM "We probably should go see Pepper, even if we have to eat some crow to get her information. I'll put on my best smile." He goes with whoever else is interested to track down the reporter. ----------------------- Diplomacy 31 (d20+17) Know(local) 16 (d20+1) both rolls for asking where to find Pepper
(OOC: Ignore the d4 roll)
DM Robert - "Stohp, with her hat, should definitely be the primary tail, but Sid would be effective at it, too." Tuesday July 9th, 2019 8:36:36 PM
Stohp wants to try to use her disguise skills to aid the magic of the hat. OOC the hat acts as a Disguise Self Spell. "You can make youreself look different, you can seem 1 foot shorter or taller, thin, fat or in between. You CANNOT change your creature type (although you can appear as another subtype)."
Bartomus contemplates what to assume shape wise. OOC At your level you can range from Huge to Diminutive.
Stock makes suggestions for getting the coin to the Smiths.
Dorbin finishes examining the coin and agrees to go looking for Pepper.
Zanderallen agrees to make nice with Pepper.
Micah ? Sid ?
----
All this talking and planning has seen the day wane. It's approaching the evening now and you realize that by now most of the shops on the Merchant will probably be open only for a little longer waiting to get some last minute sales before closing for their late dinners. Still there's the chance to find Pepper, maybe some new clothes for a disguise, and perhaps get the coin to Micah's family.
Those wishing to go to the Merchant level...
#1 Sense Motive 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { You now realize that when some merchants see you they dart their eyes around to see who else is nearby. } #1 Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { You notice that the merchants that have the little symbol on their storefront (the circle with a diamond inside) seem the most nervous when you are around. You also notice for the first time that there is a small wooden barrel near their doorway. Closer examination reveals that is says water on the barrel, and there is a sign nearby saying, use in case of fire.}
Going to Micah's parent's Smithy... #2 Perception 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {There does not appear to be anyone watching the store.}
Looking for Pepper Plate. #1 Knowledge Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { If you go to the Paper, you can approach the 'news' room and hear someone shouting about "Where's Pepper! She promised me a story today." Apparently she is not at the Rosebud Publishing, Weekly Bugle news office.} #2 Sense Motive 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Could be she's still moving around the merchants. But you didn't see her moving around, time to check some alleyways.} #3 Perception 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {You have located Pepper, in a back alley. She looks to be a in a bad way, Severely beaten and dumped behind some trash cans! Heal check 15. You can tell she's about to breath her last unless something is done immediately!}
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+3=8 ; d20+6=21 ; d20+13=17 ; Wednesday July 10th, 2019 9:05:01 AM "Any guesses where we can check for Pepper? My only guess is to check some of the alleys around the Merchant Level. Sid - Do you still have one of those bird tokens? Would it find her to tell her where to meet us? Anybody else coming with Dorbin, Z and I?"
======== Knowledge Local 8 Seems like I should know this but can I roll #2 and 3 if I miss #1 or is it kind of like a series of skill challenges that stops if you fail one? Because I'm not sure, I'll keep rolling Sense Motive 21 Perception 17
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+14=21 ; d20+5=10 ; d20+5=21 ; d20+14=24 ; Wednesday July 10th, 2019 2:46:50 PM
Following the clues with his fellow Shields Zander keeps his eyes peeled as they search the merchant level for the missing reporter. "She's got to be around here somewhere following up on her leads. I hope she hasn't gotten into some trouble. Let's keep looking, and keep on eye on the merchants. They looked worried." --------------------- Merchant level Sense Motive 21 succeeds Perception 10 fails
Pepper Plates Know Local from yesterday 16 succeeds Sense Motive 24 succeeds Perception 21 (23 with Stock's roll aiding another 1 more successful aid and we spot her)
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+9=25 ; d8+1=5 ; Wednesday July 10th, 2019 3:58:29 PM
Dorbin, headed with the others around the search for Pepper, spots her in an alley! He calls out to the others, "That's her, over there! On the ground." He rushes over, gently lifts her head into his lap, pulls out a healing potion, and tries to pour it in her mouth.
OOC: Perception, aid another: 25, that should do it! Cure light potion, d8+1=5
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 26/12/26) CMD:18 d20+5=12 ; Wednesday July 10th, 2019 5:44:41 PM
Micah tells the others he will take care of the delivery and heads to his parents' home and business that evening. He goes without his normal plate armor, carrying his backup breastplate instead.
He lets himself in and greets his family warmly. Taking them in he explains their plan and gives them the coin. He then asks if they happen to have a chain shirt available offering to trade his breast plate in for it. If not, he will leave it for "repair".
After an evening of catching up, Micah returns to the Shields' quarters to work out any last details before heading to bed.
========== Sense motive autosucceed No perception check attempted except at the Smith house. 12 to spot anyone watching. Note that breastplate costs twice as much as a chain shirt, so PF rules apply and Dad is making a killing.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Wednesday July 10th, 2019 6:57:51 PM
Sid pulls out a token, "Yeah, as long as... Wardd's Shank! Dorbin is she alright?"
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+8=23 ; d20+12=15 ; Wednesday July 10th, 2019 7:02:22 PM
Bartomus followed the others as they headed unbutton into the Merchant's level. He couldn't help but think that he was being avoided like a wounded steer on the range might be by the rest of it's herd. "Not sure we're as welcomed here as we thought, he said aloud.
SM 23, Percp 15
DM Robert - "That's her, over there! On the ground." Wednesday July 10th, 2019 8:22:13 PM OOC no, it was not a cumulative, you need to make each roll, it was rather different skills so everyone could give it a try based on what their better skills are.
That said, no sum up today.
Micah returns home and speaks with the family. Mattus takes the coin. "I'd be more than willing to testify against the scum, but Jetta say's it's deeper than just a couple of goons." He then looks at Micah when he offers to trade his armor and says. "Are you daft son?" Where upon Esma gives him a whack on the back of the head. "Don't ask questions when your hero son asks for a favor man." With that Mattus will gladly exchange the breast plate for a chain shirt. "Here you go son, brand new never worn. Try it on." A few minor adjustments later and Micah is leaving heading for home.
The rest of the party searches around the merchant level. Merchant level map They find Pepper Plate in a bad state. She is in an alley in the southeast corner of the float, below the Doc Exhange street. Dorbin rushes forward and tries to get her a to drink a potion. Some of it manages to trickle down her throat. You stare in wonder of magic as her bruises slowly fade. But she does not seem to wake up. Heal Check 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {She had sever trauma to the head from that beating. She may need more serious healing, or curing of some sort.} Knowledge local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Merabor's Infirmary (Shrine of Flower) is only a few minutes away.} Perception 20, searching Pepper Highlight to display spoiler: { You do find a map.}
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+10=14 ; d12=3 ; d20+14=15 ; d20+14=21 ; Wednesday July 10th, 2019 8:30:11 PM
(I am aware of the limits of her hat; she can use it to pretend to be other Taurs and can swap disguises at will to avoid suspicion) "We'd better split up, if I"m seen with you my disguise won't be much use. I'll go ahead and head towards the family forge and look busy. Once the Orc shows up I can follow him."
Stohp grabs a big box from her room - something that looks like it would be heavy if it was full, but empty is manageable (with a lid so it isn't obvious). Her disguise is of a Taur laborer and she heads in the general area of Micah's family smithy. She's to focused on looking the part to notice the merchants (sense motive 14, perception 15) but she is able to confirm the smithy isn't being watched yet (perception 21).
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=18 ; d20+1=12 ; d20+5=19 ; d6=6 ; d6=3 ; d6=5 ; d6=3 ; d20+8=25 ; d4=3 ; Thursday July 11th, 2019 10:19:12 AM
Zanderallen swears violently under his breath as they rush to Pepper's side. Letting Dorbin get the healing potion down her throat to stabilize he starts checking on her more extension wounds (Heal 18). "She's in a bad way. That potion puts her out of immediate danger but she's suffered some serious head trauma. Where is the nearest healer, she needs expert attention sooner rather than later. I'll use what power Domi grants me to do what I can before we move her." Kneeling beside Pepper he offers a quick prayer and his hands glow with a faint blue light that focuses around the worst of her wounds. ----------------------------------- Heal 18 Know(local) 12 Perception 19
17 healed plus Mercies (Fatigued, Shaken, Remove Disease (CL check 25)) from Lay on Hands Lesser Restoration heals 3 temporary ability damage
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+17=37 ; Thursday July 11th, 2019 2:08:08 PM
Dorbin watches Zander do his thing and then replies, "Merabor's Infirmary (Shrine of Flower) is only a few minutes away. It's that way."
OOC: Knowledge, local: 37
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+9=29 ; d20+7=9 ; d20+12=32 ; Thursday July 11th, 2019 4:29:30 PM "Oh she's in rough shape, she needs some more help than we can give." He bends down and scoops the reporter into his arms. Looking around, he couldn't find anything familiar. He shook his head in frustration asking, "Where do we need to take her to get her some help?"
As he moved her and looked about for some direction, he caught a glimps of something folded. "Hey, someone check that pocket there, there's something there it seems."
Micah's face is completely devoid of expression as his mother whacks his father. "Thank you, sir," is his only response as he checks out the new armor. He puts it on, says his farewell, and heads back to the Shields' quarters.
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 21/12/21) CMD:18 Thursday July 11th, 2019 5:54:00 PM
Corrected AC
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+16=29 ; d20+12=20 ; d20+12=15 ; Thursday July 11th, 2019 7:22:33 PM
"Right Dorbin Merabor's Infirmary (Shrine of Flower) is only a few minutes away and we need to be careful." Sid checks her quickly and pockets the map. "A map! No time," he pulls his sword and leads the way. "Stock or Bart, if you would be so kind as to carry her, I'll lead the way." Once ready Sid will lead the troupe to Merabor's Infirmary (Shrine of Flower) while watching for anyone or thing."
Knowledge(local): 29 Perception: 20 Perception(for travel to Merabor's Infirmary (Shrine of Flower) is only a few minutes away.): 15
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Thursday July 11th, 2019 7:38:12 PM
Stohp continues to stake out the forge blissfully unaware that of the struggle to save a life going on elsewhere.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+3=5 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+13=26 ; Thursday July 11th, 2019 8:16:37 PM "Oh man. She's hurt bad. Check out this map she had. Is that the route? Here, I'll carry her."
====== Heal 5 Local 14 Perception 26
OoC: Sorry for the short post. Long day.
DM Robert - "I'll use what power Domi grants me to do what I can before we move her." Thursday July 11th, 2019 8:24:29 PM
Stohp followed Micah to his parents but did not see any evil doers. It's still a day early for the Orc to show up.
Zanderallen rushes forward and does a Mr. Miyagi on Pepper.
Dorbin points the way to Merabor's Infirmary.
Bartomus scoops up Pepper and notices some papers in her pocket.
Micah returns home.
Sid pockets the map and leads the way to Merabor's Infirmary.
Stock tries to take Pepper from Bartomus but gets distracted by the map. ---------
Micah returns home ahead of the others.
Stohp, still near the Smithy, fills a chill in the air as night settles in. There's a breeze blowing in from the north west, probably going to rain tonight. Not that it matters that much since technically the Float is a big multilevel pavilion.
As Zanderallen pulls back his healing hands, Pepper's eyes flutter open. "Oh Zander, I knew you'd find me." She smiles and then closes her eyes. Healing 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {She is out of danger now, but probably still needs a good night's sleep.}
Bartomus scoops up Pepper and the party quickly makes it to Merabor's Infirmary. It is a simply two story building painted white. An attendant priest see's you and quickly comes forward. When you explain what has happened she nods. "Fortune has favored her, and the Float, for Miss Plate is well known to us. She has paid for several of the many healings we've had to do lately. There's far too much fist-a-cuffs going on lately. She said she was going to get to the bottom of it." The attendant ushers you upstairs and has Pepper placed into a two bed ward. Fortunately there is no one else in the ward.
The attendant then adds, "I will see she is fully recovered before I let her out. Perhaps..." she pats down Pepper's pockets. "Oh, fiddle de dee. I was hoping her notebook would be here and was going to ask you to look into all the fighting that's been going on. Seems like not a day goes by but someone is being brought in with injuries obviously from fighting, despite their claims of falling accidents and the like. I've half a mind to tell the authorities about suspected spousal abuse, and maybe some child abuse." Knowledge local 5 Highlight to display spoiler: { You're pretty sure the attendant is talking about the 'damage' the protection racket is dealing out when making sure payments are made and new customers accept membership.}
There being nothing else to do here, Zander, Dorbin, Bartomus, Stock, Sid, and Dorbin return to their headquarters. There they find Micah, Rodrigo and the kids. But no sign of Stohp. Rodrigo says she went out shortly after Micah did and she was laborer.
OOC you can sum up to each other, and rest the night. If you want to do anything in the day before 4pm please state it in your post.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+3=12 ; Friday July 12th, 2019 10:04:16 AM "Oh Zaaaaander...hehe...at least she seems like she'll be alright."
"Anyway the map seems to show buisnesses and times. I'm guessing that is a path she's observed them on. Micah - Is the Smithy on here? I'm hoping we can use this to tail these guys at a distance. At what point do we close in though? Are we going to tail them back to their 'hideout'?"
====== Knowledge Local 12
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+9=17 ; d20+7=14 ; Friday July 12th, 2019 10:27:00 AM
Bartomus chuckled at the ribbing that Stock gave Zander. But got serious as he listened to the description of an increase in "falling injuries." The found paper was Pepper's map and that was information they needed. As they headed back, he asked "so now should we stake out the Smithy and their last stop? That might be a way we can get the most evidence needed to convict the lot of these goons."
[i]Healing - 17; KnowLoc - 14[/1]
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=23 ; d20+1=10 ; Friday July 12th, 2019 2:00:12 PM
Stock's friendly ribbing causes Zander to flush as he is caught in emotions ranging from embarrassment to guilt. He ignores it and pulls the attendant aside. "We did find a map that it looked like Miss Plates was making of their routes. It should help us with another plan we're working on. We're not going to let this terror continue. I'll be back tomorrow to check on her. Here's a few gold to help the infirmary, I have a great respect for followers of Flower." Zander pulls 5 gold coins from his purse and hands them to the attendant with a smile, thinking of K as he does so. He briefly wonders what K was up to these days?
Once they're gathered back up at home that evening and looking over the map he says, "Well, this should tell us where they'll be coming from to be at the Smithy by 4pm and where they might be headed next. We can set Stohp and Sid along those routes to be on the look out."
The next day he takes a quick trip up to the the merchant level to check on Pepper. He asks the attendant about her recovery and if she is still there he goes to check on her. Still somewhere between embarrassed and guilty he wishes her well and tells her they are working an angle and if she promises to stay out of the way and do whatever the healer says he'll let her know what is going on, just as long as she doesn't publish anything that would hurt their investigation. He takes his leave and heads back home to prepare for possible confrontation that afternoon. -------------------------
Micah is troubled deeply upon hearing of Pepper's plight. He sighs deeply as he recalls sending her into harms way. "What is done, is done," he says aloud to no one in particular. Then he focuses on the map, the potential routes, and the plans for the next day.
He points on the map to Stock where the smithy is.
He turns directly to face Bartomus though when he talks about the goons, "These are underlings. It is Crimson that matters. It is imperative that we track them back in hopes of finding him." He pauses a moment, thinking back on Shredds before continuing, "I doubt it will stop at merely obtaining evidence. Once Crimson is revealed, I expect a fight, and not an easy one. Yes," he says, pausing thoughtfully, "We must follow these thugs, but be prepared for war."
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Friday July 12th, 2019 6:43:08 PM
Dorbin turns to leave the temple and looks over at Pepper's peaceful face. He runs back to the attendant and says, "Please let us know if she needs anything else. Could you send word on her condition? To the Silver Shields? Thank you."
When they arrive back at HQ he examines the map with the others. During the evening he prepares to memorize the locate object spell so that in case the scroll runs out and Micah runs out, they'll have a backup.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+15=20 ; d20+15=16 ; Friday July 12th, 2019 7:32:12 PM
Concerned and lost in thought, Sid walked home and helps with the shop until he and Elly turn in. The next day he does the following:
1) Stop by a flower shop near the infirmary and buys a gold's worth of flowers and tips another gold to have them delivered to Pepper's room with a note that says, "Their beauty pales to your's, but may they brighten your day and you do mine -Z"
2) Stops by the lumber mill and signs the business documents to create their trash collecting business.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Saturday July 13th, 2019 1:32:06 AM
Having tested her disguise and gotten the lay of the land Stohp returns to the HQ and wonders where everyone is. This was clearly all a scouting trip and not her player getting the days confused.
DM Robert - "We must follow these thugs, but be prepared for war." Saturday July 13th, 2019 10:18:14 AM OOC There is some confusion about the map, the map depicted the route on the DAY Pepper was following them. It will not be any good until another week has passed.
Stock looks at the map. Unfortunately the map only depicts the villains route for today, tomorrow is a different day and they only collect 1/week.
Bartomus asks if they should stake out any place in particular. Sadly Micah's parent's shop is the only place you know they will be coming to on your quest.
Zander passes some coins to the attendant.
Micah realizes there may have been ways they could have intervened but what's done is done.
Dorbin talks to the attendant and prepares spells that night.
Sid turns in and the next day makes SURE that Pepper knows Zander is worried about her.
Stohp has tested her disguise and is assured of it working.
----
Night comes, sleep blessed sleep. Dawn breaks. The heroes rise and go about their preparation. Sid is departs to work but is ready at 4.
For some reason Pepper comes to the HQ about noon. She inquires about Zander and how the party is doing. She seems fine. Zander opts to take the better part of valor and has Rodrigo cover for him saying that he is out and about. Those in the HQ at the time can see a pretty pout start to form on Pepper, but she quickly shakes it off. She thanks whoever is present for helping her and then trots off, inscribing notes in a new notebook.
As the hour nears the party will converge on the Merchant level.
Please let me know where you want to position yourself relevant to Smith's Smithy. Realize that the map of the size of the city is only an approximation. Also how are you dressed?
Anyone near the Smithy may want to make a Stealth roll. Anyone near the Smithy may want to make Perception rolls.
Tailing the half-orc is going to require both Stealth and Perception. You can use Knowledge Local to keep track of the route and lay signs for others to follow you if you are following the half-orc. You will need to make Knowledge local to keep track of the trackers signs. You could also use Detect Magic, Detect Evil (paladin), or any other spells if you want to try and observe the half-orc. Of course then you need to be near enough to observe him. If you want to follow from the rooftops it is going to require, Perception and Acrobatics, and if you really mess up with Acrobatics then Stealth.
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 21/12/21) CMD:18 Sunday July 14th, 2019 3:49:45 PM Active spells: Magic Vestment, Detect Magic
Micah goes over some last minute details with the Shields, suggesting he and Dorbin hide inside the smithy out of sight and ready to take turns casting locate object should the thugs shake their tail. He also asks Dorbin to have message prepared to enable communication with the rest of the team.
He then broaches a subject he is reluctant to discuss with the young wizard, "I dislike suggesting putting her potentially in harms way, but can Emily Jasmine help out with this? I know there is a special bond between you two and she may be able to spot and trial our quarry as well as some of the other Shields. She may even be able to learn something from the other cats in the area. Additionally, if you cast detect magic on her, she may have an even better chance of keeping tabs on our prey.
That day he heads to his first home, praying for courage, peace, and success the entire way. He has donned nondescript clothing with his chain shirt over it. His shield, enhanced with magic vestment, is strapped to his back. He takes position in the back of the smithy with detect magic cast ready to observe the transaction and prepared to cast his locate object spell should the others lose the trail.
===========================
Spells prepared updated on character sheet. Specific ones prepared for this event:
2nd Zone of Truth 3rd Invisibility Purge, Locate Object (x2)
Spells Cast at time of meeting: Magic Vestment, Detect Magic
NOTE TO ALL SPELL CASTERS: Micah has a lesser metamagic rod of Extend. This doubles the duration of any spell up to 3rd level. He can use this 3 times/day. One certain use is at least the first casting of locate object.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+4=11 ; Sunday July 14th, 2019 6:01:45 PM
Stohp finds a place to hide around the corner of the smithy. She remembers statements that he vanished after rounding a corner, so she hopes to be able to catch him in the act of changing disguises. She isn't very stealthy (stealth 11) but hopes that her disguise will eliminate any suspicion (taking 10 for 32 disguise)
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 Sunday July 14th, 2019 10:51:00 PM
Bartomus looked at the map and agreed to positioned himself a few blocks away from the Smithy on the route that Pepper had detailed. "Stohp, hey I will be here. Why don't you drop something and i can pick it up and use it as a basis for following you. You know, hey, hey you dropped this. I can also change into a whisp of wind and flutter about after you guys too."
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 Monday July 15th, 2019 9:22:34 AM
::heavy sigh::
"Well, I'm not sure where I fit here. I guess I'll be trying to follow at a distance, looking for any signs that those who are trailing leave behind. I'm open for suggestions though."
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+17=31 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+5=10 ; d20+11=21 ; Monday July 15th, 2019 12:45:31 PM
Dorbin prepares his spells and his robes. Since he has a background growing up on the trash level, he has some older robes that are a bit more worn so he should blend in easily in the area. As he is getting ready, he speaks with Micah. He nods and replies, “These days I think Emily Jasmine is more capable of taking care of herself than I am. I doubt that she would really be in much danger and few would think much of a cat wandering about those streets. I can certainly get her to check things out. She can indeed speak with other cats and she can really talk to me, too, but I don’t tell many people about that because people think I’m weird enough already.”
“I will send her out when we think the time is right, but she’ll have to come back to me to report anything, I can’t see through her eyes or anything like that yet. I we could hang out in the smithy and wait. After a minute or two I can cast the locate spell from the scroll first and see what direction that takes us. If that spell wears off before we find them, then you cast yours next. And yes, I will have message ready as well in case we need something, that should be useful.”
OOC: Dorbin will prepare, spells are updated, including memorizing locate object (in case the scroll and Micah’s wear out) and message.
I’m not sure what we’ll need for tracking with locate object, so if things get that far, here’s some dice:
Knowledge, local: 31 Perception: 28 Perception for the cat: 10 Stealth: 21
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=7 ; Monday July 15th, 2019 2:04:28 PM
Zander preps for the day, noting that eventually he'll have to figure out what he wants to do about Pepper. But that was a thought for a later time. It was time to act. He prepares himself in full combat gear but as usual glammers his armor to look like a simple guardsmen tunic. He goes to the smithy plenty early with the others to be well out of sight before the appointed time.
"Stock, let's hide out in the back of the smithy. Neither one of us is good at blending into a crowd or tailing somebody. We can stay out of sight and guard our casters while they magically track the half-orc. And that keeps us near at hand if things go south."
Zander asks to be in a back room positioned with less than 1 foot of stone or 3 feet of wood between himself and the main room. When the time comes he focuses his divine sense into the main room, looking for evil intentions. ------------------------------------------------- Perception 7 Prepared to Detect Evil when alerted to half orc or other enforcers entering the smithy provided Zander has a spot completely out of sight that detect evil can still penetrate.
DM Robert - "I guess I'll be trying to follow at a distance," d4=2 ; d4=3 ; d20+16=22 ; Monday July 15th, 2019 8:30:08 PM
Micah hunkers down in the back of the smithy but finds a place he can peer out.
Stohp hides around the corner from the smithy, are you watching the smithy at all?
Bartomus looks at the map and says he can position himself further along. UNFORTUNATLEY PEPPER'S MAP DOES NOT APPLY TODAY![i] Please let me know if you are in site of Stohp and/or what form you are taking.
Stock hopes to just follow along behind.
Dorbin dresses way down for the Merchant level. It seems to work though, people give a sniff and huff at him and generally turn away pretending not to see him.
Zander goes to the back of the Smithy and suggests Stock stay with him.
Sid??? ===============
The bald half-Orc approaches Smith's Smithy. He is dressed in common workers cloths, but has a robin-hood style green hat on his head. Under his arm is a small barrel. You can see he is wearing a rapier. He enters the shop. "Well, Smith. What's your decision?" He demands.
Mattus replies. "Here's your money."
The Half-Orc laughs. "Hah. Good choice. Now since you've purchased our [i]Insurance Plan, we can just put this right here." He sets down the barrel outside the door. And then takes the coins from Mattus. He stuffs the coins into a leather pouch tied to his belt. Perception 25 - because you are far away and hidden... Highlight to display spoiler: { The barrel says water.}
He then squats down and scratches a symbol into the door near the barrel he sat down. "Next week I'll be back for another insurance payment." He turns and walks down the street.
Micah's detect magic... This guy is has some magic...hat, faint illusion; belt moderate transmutation; something under his wool shirt faint (whatever school armor is); several bottles around his person, probably potions.
Zander's detect evil...detects evil, yep that dude is radiating some evil intentions. In fact he has a moderately powerful aura.
The half-Orc turns and walks away from the smithy, right toward where Stohp is hanging out. However he crosses the street and turns the other direction. He is still a bald Half-orc.
Please roll Stealth target 22 to avoid being seen following him. You will need to roll Perception 10 to keep him in your sights if you are with or near Stohp.
Stohp will need to roll knowledge local to take advantage of the local shops, signs, street posts, etc. to lay some signs. Anyone following her will have to make a greater knowledge local roll to follow those signs.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+13=30 ; d20+3=5 ; Tuesday July 16th, 2019 9:57:47 AM
Stock nudges Zanderallen and says, "The barrel says water...that's some irony for this fire insurance. It would be even more ironic if it actually contained something flammable."
Once the half-orc is gone, Stock gets up and moves quickly to the front of the store. "Ok if Stohp and (maybe?) Sid do their job and track this guy, maybe we can track them back to whatever base they are working out of. Then there is the coin. Micah - are you able to follow it?"
========== Perception 30 Knowledge Local 5 OoC: So the better Stohp is at Knowledge Local, the harder it is for us to follow her?
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20=6 ; d20+12=15 ; Tuesday July 16th, 2019 1:16:35 PM
Bartomus took a place a bit further from down from Stohp and where he could watch what walked by them. He had everything at the ready for his shift into a creature of the air (small air elemental). He also realized he could faze in and out if he wanted to wait.
He saw the Half orc pass Stohp, and it was pretty obvious that he was just standing there.
So he hid away. Going invisible and following in the direction the goon had gone.
stealth 6; perception 15
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+5=9 ; d20+1=21 ; Tuesday July 16th, 2019 1:51:58 PM
Zander waits to move from cover until the all clear is given, then he relays a message to the party using the Dorbin messenger system, "Be careful, the half-orc radiates much evil, he is much more than a simple thug."
"Thank you for your help Mattus, I just ask you leave the barrel and mark alone so as not to alert them something is up. I think we should take a quick look at them though." So saying he quickly scans the mark and barrel with detect evil. After that he is ready to follow the trail provided by Stohp, Sid, or their magic. ------------------------------- perception 9 know local 21
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+17=21 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+11=23 ; Tuesday July 16th, 2019 3:10:15 PM
Dorbin waits a bit with Micah, then casts the spell of the scroll, using that to help sense the direction of the coin as they follow quite a ways behind.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+16=22 ; d20+15=18 ; d20+12=14 ; Tuesday July 16th, 2019 7:05:38 PM
(Sorry, thought I had posted for the weekend)
Sid, dressed with his worst clothes over his armor and short sword, has his short bow and a small quiver on him. He buys some food and eats it as he sits in the alleyway waiting
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+4=17 d20+15=17 Tuesday July 16th, 2019 8:07:33 PM
Stohp is not that great at stealth (17). Her hope is her disguise will let her play innocent and just seem to be heading the same general direction as him and once he turns off she can change disguise so he doesn't realize he's being followed. Of course as a hat user himself, he may figure that out.
She leaves marks so the party can track her (know: local 17)
DM Robert - "It would be even more ironic if it actually contained something flammable." Tuesday July 16th, 2019 8:27:48 PM
Stock emerges from the Smithy and is ready to get things moving.
Bartomus sees the half-orc make his turn and keep walking. He turns invisible and goes after him.
Zander warns the others that the half-orc is evil, then scans the water barrel.
Dorbin pulls out his scroll and casts it.
Sid sees his quary from the alley. He gets up and starts to follow him.
Stohp starts following her prey but is pretty bad at doing it stealthy. It's funny a rogue with no stealth.
Micah?
++++++++++++++++++++++
Bartomus stumbles on some loose cobblestones. The Half-Orc turns and scans behind him, sure he heard something but seeing nothing there he shrugs and moves on.
Stohp starts following along behind the Half-Orc. The Half-Orc eyes her once but doesn't seem to take note of her.
Sid starts following from his hiding place. The Half-Orc spots him and stares. Sid needs to make a disguise check. I will give a +2 bonus for your stated clothing change.
Dorbin casts his spell and gets a firm grasp of where the coin is relative to his position. He points and notes the direction is now perpendicular to the street you are on. I will allow knowledge local 20 to keep relative track of the coin and sense of direction if you want to follow on parallel streets.
Zander stares at the barrel but detects no evil from the inanimate object, likewise the mark.
Stock wonders at the actual contents of the barrel, he scans the streets ahead but does not see any sort of sign.
Please roll Stealth target 22 to avoid being seen following him...which Bartomus, Sid, and Stohp failed, but Bartomus is invisible so he gets a pass so far.
Bartomus, Sid, and Stohp will now need to roll Perception 15 to keep him in your sights (and hope that Sid makes a good disguise roll.)
Zanderallen, Stock, Micah, and Dorbin, will need to maintain a knowledge local 15 or perception 20 to keep track of the trail Sid or Stohp leaves.
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 21/12/21) CMD:18 d20+5=16 ; Tuesday July 16th, 2019 8:30:46 PM
Micah clenches his fist as the thug takes the money from his father, his brows furrowed in both anger and concentration.
When he notices the aura of the hat, he nods his head in satisfaction. After the "half-orc" leaves, he whispers to Dorbin, "Tell Stohp that he's probably wearing a hat of disguise like she is. Then tell Bart to look for aura's too."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+12=15 ; Tuesday July 16th, 2019 9:27:19 PM
Bartomus followed along trying to get some sense of who the goon was and where he was going. When he stumbled and the Half-orc looked at where he was standing, but not being visible, Bartomus realized that this was a challenge. When he saw an ally he stepped into, came into view, and fazed out again catching a glimpse of the half-orc in the distance. Whew, this is not what I am used to for sure, he thought to himself.
Perception - 15; and as to Hide Away Hide Away (Fey Domain) - inv 1/rd 3+3xs/day - so 2/6 used so far.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Wednesday July 17th, 2019 1:48:25 AM
Stohp does her best to ignore the others who are trying to follow him and just look like a bored workman carrying a heavy load. Nothing to see here...
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+14=19 ; Wednesday July 17th, 2019 8:17:44 AM
Forgotten perception check: 19
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+3=6 ; d20+2=19 ; Wednesday July 17th, 2019 9:45:15 AM
Stock follows Dorbin and Micah out of the shop, listening to Dorbin's directions as they go. He keeps his eyes open, looking for any signs that Stohp and Sid might leave as well as his ears open in case a fight breaks out ahead.
=========== Local 6 - Whoops, I didn't see it was Local or Perception. In either case it's a fail. Stealth 19 - I couldn't tell if you wanted me to roll stealth but Stock is very much trying to follow at a long distance using Dorbin and Micah's castings
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+17=19 ; Wednesday July 17th, 2019 12:49:49 PM
Dorbin says to Micah (far from the half orc guy), "We should stay a street or so away, I don't want to accidentally run into the big guy. Come on, this way!"
OOC: Yes, Dorbin is attempting to use the spell in a way that he won't have to directly follow and then if the others are spotted or lose track, he should hopefully be able to continue to follow along.
Knowledge, Local: 19
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 21/12/21) CMD:18 d20+1=9 ; Wednesday July 17th, 2019 1:06:08 PM
Micah remains with Dorbin.
He tries to help the wizard find their way in the side street, but is unable to keep track of their relative location.
Trying not to be too anxious, he is unable to remain silent. Check in with Stohp. Maybe she can orient us," he whispers quietly. "I hate waiting," he says aloud with a sigh. A moment later, he asks again, "Where is Emily?"
He then pauses to reflect and realizes the threats on his family have made this very personnel. With a controlled release of breath, he again speaks aloud, "Courage, patience, faith." Realizing it was a prayer he adds, "So be it, Domi.
========== Knowledge local 9: fails to aid dorbin
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+1=16 ; d20+5=20 ; Wednesday July 17th, 2019 4:17:07 PM
Zanderallen is on high alert, especially as he notices how agitated Micah is. Rightfully so, he hated having to bring his friend's family into this whole mess. He's focused enough to remember a shortcut to keep them parallel with their quarry. "Take a right here Dorbin. The street the half-orc is on takes that hook around the warehouse." ------------------------ Know(local) 16 aids Dorbin to give the group a 21 Perception 20
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+3=9 ; d20+15=29 ; d20+12=32 ; d20+1=16 ; d20+2=20 ; Wednesday July 17th, 2019 7:50:00 PM
Sid smiles really big and waves throws his hat down at his feet and starts dancing, keeping eye contact with a hopeful expression on his face.
Disguise: 9 Stealth(If I can re-roll, after the engagement): 29 Perception: Nat. 20(32)
Performance(Dance): 16 Bluff(To look like I'm busking): 20
DM Robert - "Take a right here Dorbin." d20+16=34 ; d20+24=28 ; d20+16=20 ; Wednesday July 17th, 2019 8:30:20 PM
Bartomus tries to stay out of sight and keep an eye on things at the same time.
Stohp ambles along confident in her disguise, trying to keep an eye on her target.
Stock follows Dorbin but suddenly realizes he's not sure which was is even north.
Dorbin takes the lead.
Micah is so flustered by the threats to his family that he looses track of things momentarily.
Zanderallen digs it and helps Dorbin take the right parallel street.
Sid attempts to disguise don't seem to disguisey. He breaks into a dance routine and watches the half-orc amble along. Nope he saw through your disguise and you can't re-roll a stealth for this instance.
================
The Half-Orc eyes Sid and then just shakes his head. (Perception check). Never-the-less he continues on his way walking past Sid and down the street.
Stohp passes Sid while following the Half-Orc.
The Half-Orc quickly takes another corner. (Stealth). Bartomus, hiding in an alley is not able to see around the corner. Stohp unfortunately looses sight of him and suddenly realizes there are no Half-orcs on the street. However, Sid was able to see the Half-Orc whisk the hat off. The target is now 1 foot shorter and human, a human male, wearing a rapier, and regular looking work clothes (the clothes did not change).
Sid now has the target can he communicate it to Bartomus and Stohp? YES, according to Message he can point to the intended target and speak..
Dorbin halts on the street near a four way crossroad. He turns to the others and informs them the coin is coming back this direction, He's pretty sure it's coming up the street just in front of you as you are at a four way cross way.
Dorbin, Stock, Zander, Micah please roll Stealth target 20 to avoid being seen as the 'coin' will pass in front of you. Zander and Micah may have +2 for not wearing their usual gear. Also if you come up with good excuses texts of ways to be innocuous in the streets it will give a hidden bonus.
Bartomus, Sid, and Stohp will now need to roll Perception 20 to keep him in your sights. And a Stealth of greater than 20 to not be seen tailing him. Stohp gets a +10 bonus if using her hat to change appearance.
Zanderallen, Stock, and Micah also will have to make Perception 25 to notice a man dressed similarly to the half-orc the others are following. Dorbin can pinpoint him exactly but will have to be concentrating on the spell.
I'm going to assume that the Z,S,M,&D gang will allow the target to pass in front of them before continuing on.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+2=14 ; d20+13=18 ; Thursday July 18th, 2019 11:38:58 AM "Ok. Dorbin, you lead the way."
Stock is trying to keep an eye on everything that is happening but fails to notice anything important happening.
========= Stealth 14 vs. DC20 Perception 18 vs. DC25
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+11=18 ; d20=10 ; Thursday July 18th, 2019 11:48:28 AM
After Dorbin mentions the coin coming back, he starts to move to hide, but then sees Stock standing around like nothing is going on. Instead of hiding, he tries to start a fight with the dwarf, hoping that will at least hide the group's intentions from tracking the coin. He tries to shove the dwarf (strength check: 10), but just slams into him without any effect. He yells out, "Gimme that back! It's mine and you took it from me!"
OOC: Obviously not focusing on the spell right now, more concerned with not being noticed, or perhaps being noticed, but not as a group following the thug.
When Micah hears their quarry is heading toward them, he decides the play it calmly. He know that the half orc has been followed before and counts on his hat to keep help him shake detection. Micah simply turns to talk to the nearest bystander, asking directions to Butch's Butchery, and turning his back to the path of their quarry. All the while he is concentrating on his detect magic trying to pick up the aura's he saw before.
Base stealth roll is 19. There is -2 from armor (chain shirt) and +2 from clothing.
=========== No perception roll: DC too high for Micah
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+12=32 ; d20=6 ; Thursday July 18th, 2019 5:28:43 PM
Bartomus followed along trying to get some sense of who the goon was and where he was going. When he stumbled and the Half-orc looked at where he was standing, but not being visible, Bartomus realized that this was a challenge. When he saw an ally he stepped into, came into view, and fazed out again catching a glimpse of the half-orc in the distance. Whew, this is not what I am used to for sure, he thought to himself.
Perception - 15; and as to Hide Away Hide Away (Fey Domain) - inv 1/rd 3+3xs/day - so 2/6 used so far.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+12=26 ; d20+16=17 ; d20+15=33 ; Thursday July 18th, 2019 7:06:02 PM
If Sid can message other he will pass on the description of the human and reiterate that the clothing doesn't change. Breaking eye contact he ducks around the corner and continues to follow the human.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+14=23 ; Thursday July 18th, 2019 7:08:10 PM
Stohp looks around to see if there's anyone who's holding a hat or otherwise looks like they just took a hat off. If he's smart he can turn it off without taking it off; Stohp always has hers on. She just has to hope he's an amateur and took the thing off completely and that she went around the corner fast enough to see him still holding it. Maybe it'll even look like hers, though it could look like any hat really (perception 23 to spot hat in hand)
DM Robert - "Ok. Dorbin, you lead the way." d20+16=22 ; d20+24=25 ; Thursday July 18th, 2019 8:40:36 PM
Stock fails to find a hiding place or devise any sort of idea to help dissuade a spotter.
Dorbin mentions the coin coming back and starts a verbal fight with Stock.
Micah starts playing the role of a lost shopper.
Bartomus...cuts and pastes his entire turn from the previous day, but makes a presumed Perception roll FAR better than the previous day, but does not put it into his text..
Sid messages Bartomus and Stohp as to their quarries new image. Then he follows after him.
Stohp knows what to look for but concentrates on trying to spot someone with a hat in his hands instead.
Zander?
=====================
Standing in the street looking bewildered at Dorbin, Stock is not sure what to do. Fortunately there's a cat nearby who promptly rakes her claws at a vulnerable spot on Stock's anatomy. HE is quickly distracted by the cat and yells "Oww!" and turns to look down and around him. It makes for quite the spectacle.
Micah turning his back on the street and engages a merchant. He learns that Butchs Butchery has in fact moved to the Barracks level where it is doing a thriving business as a deli.
Zander stands in the street rather dumbfounded making for the typical man at arms hireling look.
Sid stalks his quarry as the passes the intersection he sees a commotion with a Stock and a robed man. He also see's Zander standing in the street. You may message either to tell him anything you want as you pass by. He does note that the man he's tracking walks quickly but with a smooth and efficient locomotion, not wasted energy but still seems like he can shift directions quickly if need be.
Stohp makes her way up the street. While she can't see a hat in hand she does see a man dressed like the Half-Orc was. She notes that he has pretty broad shoulders but walks lightly. She also see's Stock standing in the street at the crossroads dancing around with a cat. Likewise she can see Zander. You may message either to tell him anything you want as you pass by.
Bartomus, thanks to Sid, knows whom to look for and is able to spot him after shifting position. He may continue to tail him either visibly or invisibly, but since he didn't move last time would have to catch up.
The man walks like he doesn't have a care in the world. He even seems to be doing some window shopping. Sid can tell that the man looked over at the commotion where Stock was but didn't seem to react at all. He continues on and rounds the corner again to the right, he's now heading north which is the way the Dorbin party was headed, but he's one street over.
If you are directly following him you must now make a Perception 25 check as he rounds the corner.
You will also now need to make a Stealth check of 22 to avoid being detected by him if you are following him directly.
If you're Bartomus and invisible you can double time in up the street and not worry about being spotted.
Dorbin and Party can continue to track him on a parallel street with a successful Knowledge Local 20 to keep relative track of the coin.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 49/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+14=27 ; d20+22=41 ; Thursday July 18th, 2019 11:02:46 PM
Stohp decides to show this not-orc how it's done. As he rounds the corner out of sight she sets down her box, touches her hat, and turns her outermost coat inside out to reveal a flower print design that had been hidden. Where once walked a burly male laborer carrying a heavy load now a common Minotaur girl idles along behind him, matching his pace and his window shopping. She's able to do this without really slowing down and is easily able to track him around the corner (perception 27) and neither appearance looks remotely like herself or the other disguise.
She tries to get a good look at the man so she can recognize him in the future. With his hat off she knows she's seeing his true appearance.
(not sure if I should roll a new disguise check; if so disguise 41)
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 47/52 AC: 19; Melee +7;Perc+12;Heal+9 d20+12=31 ; Friday July 19th, 2019 1:34:10 AM
He paused and breathed having realized he was holding his breath the entire time he was following the Half-orc. He got the message from Sid and was able to locate who he was looking for. But, while he was catching his breath, the distance had grown.
Great, now you have to move on the quick, sure, he thought to himself and then vanished from sight and moved quickly to catch up to where he could truly tail the changed enforcer. He focused on the human, while scanning for a place to become visible again.
So sorry about that - wrote out a post, a question to you with the rolls. Not sure what I did there.
Perception - 31; Fey hide away 4/6
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+17=24 ; Friday July 19th, 2019 11:33:30 AM
After the target passes, Dorbin says to Stock, "Sorry about that, he was coming right at us." He looks off in the direction he went and then heads for the next street over calling out, "Come on, this way." He heads for the next street over, concentrating on the coin once again (Knowledge, local: 24).
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; DR 1/-; CMB: 13; CMD: 27; Rage: 20/22 d20+3=18 ; Friday July 19th, 2019 1:46:34 PM "What!?! I didn't see a half-orc. If I see this guy, I'm just going to tackle him. Oh and I need to teach you how to punch."
He glares at Emily Jasmine and then follows closely on Dorbin's heals.
======== Local 18 vs DC20
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 21/12/21) CMD:18 Friday July 19th, 2019 1:49:47 PM
Micah exhales deeply when he realizes the threat has passed.
"He changed appearance, right? What does he look like now?" Micah asks Dorbin as he keeps pace with the young wizard.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 88/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 22 d20+1=18 ; d20+5=13 ; Friday July 19th, 2019 4:33:50 PM
Collecting himself Zander moves along with the others, pretty confident Dorbin is keeping them abreast their target. "No tackling Stock, we've got the best lead anyone's had on this case. He obviously thinks he's lost his pursuers. Now hopefully he leads us back to their base of operations. Then you can tackle as many people and doors as you want, and I'll help. Anyone who goes around beating women and children to make people pay protection money is in need of a lesson in manners." ----------------- Know(local) 18 Perception 13
Sid(Andrew) HP: 42/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+15=35 ; d20+12=18 ; d20+12=20 ; d20+15=27 ; Friday July 19th, 2019 10:44:43 PM
Sid as he skulks by Z messages him about the man's appearance change. As we walks through the market he ducks behind some stalls and comes out wearing soft brown full cloak he found with the hood up. Deftly he swaps out the robe for his hat and leaves a gold in it. He silently and unobtrusively rounds the corner and hesitates for a moment, not seeing the man they are tracking. Slowly he continues up the street eyes darting up and down the street, the alleys, the ledges and rooftops.
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