DM Carl - Were we expecting even more visitors? Monday November 18th, 2019 1:27:34 PM
Parnell eats. For a slight guy, he can put away quite a bit. He talks about his life and travels as he eats. He may not be an adventurer, but he gets around.
After he's put away a good portion of bacon, cheese, juice, and hopefully some biscuits, he's ready to head out. "Your hospitality is very much appreciated, but I have a lot of work ahead of me getting these ready for production." He makes a slight bow as he takes his leave.
A few seconds after the door closes behind him, a familiar, somewhat high-pitched voice can be heard.
"Parnell! You old coot! Come to memorialize more Dragons, eh? How've you been?" A slight feminine sigh can be heard before the voice continues. "OH! I have something to show you. Hold this basket, would you dear?" A pause. "Right, I'll just put it down for a moment. Look, Parnell! I got Valdor AND Mordrid to sign these cards. I've been holding on to them for years, just in case."
"That's quite splendid, Master Restlin." Yea, that's where that voice is from! "I have collectors who would pay top coin for those."
"Coin I've got, Parnell. I'm holding on these for bragging rights." A throat clears outside. "Dear," comes a feminine voice, "we should bring the Sea Dragons their gift before it goes off in the sun."
"She's right as always, Parnell. Don't be a stranger! I have dozens of stories you haven't heard. Come by anytime!"
There's a knock on your door. Answering it reveals Restlin the Mendicant and Sesha, Matron in waiting of House Avon. Both are members of Hook City's Iron Dragons. Restlin holds a basket filled with fruit from the Southern Continent, as well as a few bottles labeled "Glass Grass".
"Hey folks," starts Restlin. "Brought you some goodies from home." There is a slight vibration from the DC rings you wear, and Sesha's voice fills your mind. "Sorry for the lack of notice, but there's important business to discuss and we have need of subterfuge. May we come in?"
Fang (Mitch) HP: 152/203 (236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Monday November 18th, 2019 1:35:17 PM
Fang, in her room playing with her old cards, hears none of this until Sesha talks to them over the rings. Somewhat confused, she opens the door to her room, sees no one is there, then shrugs and closes it again before going back to what she was doing.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Monday November 18th, 2019 2:44:14 PM
Rill will simply reply via the ring, "Please come in and be welcome."
Then he will go down to the common room.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Monday November 18th, 2019 6:46:01 PM
Aex is startled when more Dragons appear. She stands up, bows lightly and introduces herself : "Aexiri at your service!
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Monday November 18th, 2019 7:20:54 PM
Bralin nods in greeting to Restlin and Sesha, and wordlessly moves with the group to the common room.
Once there, he takes up station, standing near (but not against) a wall, and waits.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Monday November 18th, 2019 8:47:37 PM "Of course this would be the day to burn the bacon!" Tahni mentally chastises herself for her repeated cooking failures. The day they have a famous painter AND two Iron Dragons come to visit. Yep. That seems about right.
If Sesha wants to use a little subterfuge, that's quite alright with Tahni. Something must be up if the ID are here.
She tries to continue the ruse. Perhaps they are being watched right now?
"A fruit basket. That's very kind of you. It's been some time since we last met. If you have the time, perhaps you'd like to come in for some tea and biscuits?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Monday November 18th, 2019 10:33:29 PM
"Our doors are always open to you. Except between 4 and 5. That's Terser's private time."
Jozhur Tuesday November 19th, 2019 8:36:06 AM
Jozhur nods a welcome, expecting this meeting is about business, not breakfast. Shame too, they had just returned home.
DM Carl - Were we expecting even more visitors? Tuesday November 19th, 2019 12:06:17 PM
Restlin and Sesha are greeted with a minimum of fanfare. Sesha stares long and hard at Aexana when she announces herself to be at Sesha's service. "We are equals, dear. Don't forget that." She smiles before moving on.
The basket is placed on a table. "This stuff was nearly impossible to get for a while, but now that the Sargrass is back open, it's back on the menu."
Sesha looks around. "We're missing one. Fang, right? Is she here?" Hopefully someone fetches her.
Restlin plops himself down in a chair, "We've been meaning to come pay a visit for a while, but we've had this inter-dimensional scavenger hunt going on that'll probably shake up the Wold's pantheon quite a bit." Sesha accepts a cup of tea and two biscuits. Restlin politely declines, and pulls a lead sheet, a glass rod, a cotton ball, and a vial of powder from his pack. From a fancy looking quiver on his back, he pulls a simple rod.
The two make small talk for 10 minutes as Restlin completes some sort of ritual. Spellcraft DC20, Highlight to display spoiler: {Restlin is casting Mage's Private Sanctum using a silent spell metamagic rod.}.
When he's finished, all sound from the world outside abruptly stops. "Fine spell, that. If you've got about 12,000 gold worth of diamond dust lying around, you can make it permanent, too."
Sesha ignores him and gets to business. "You've heard of the Chancer's Guild, yes?" Knowledge, Local DC 15, Highlight to display spoiler: {The Chancers guild are an organized group of playboys, adventurers, and risk takers who value both money and exhilarating experiences in great measure. They are known for holding lavish balls and tournaments, and usually some manner of excitement is expected at each event.} "This invitation was sent to the Dragon Consortium last week."
On cue, Restlin unfurls a scroll and reads. "The Chancers Guild is pleased to announce the upcoming Twelfth Annual Chancers Invitational! In honor of the recent promotion of two new adventuring groups to your ranks, The Dragon Consortium is hereby offered the opportunity to compete in a competition of skill, sorcery, and martial ability! The competition will be held at the exotic Dragon Bay on blah blah blah, you get the point." He hands the scroll to Rill.
"The Consortium's diviners got their hands on it and predicted great woe would result from this competition," continues Sesha. "They were also quite specific that the invitation was meant to reach the Sea Dragons."
Rill is free to look at the invitation. The start date for the competition is roughly a month away, including travel time.*
*This is primarily to give you lot time to craft and take care of any personal business that Parnell's visit may have preempted. It can be hand-waved away if you have nothing to take care of.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Tuesday November 19th, 2019 5:30:38 PM
As Sesha puts Aex as her equal the little Greenmage shuffles her feet a little... it still feels strange to her but well it is as it is. She simply nods at Sesha to state she understood what she meant... time for being small and humble is over.
"Ooo a ball!", Aex says with exitement, "It's been a while since I last went dancing! Sounds fun!!"
And then she hears the rest of Sesha's information. It suddenly sounds a lot less inviting...
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Tuesday November 19th, 2019 5:59:58 PM
Perhaps a permanent Mage's Sanctum wouldn't be a bad idea? The party sure are getting more visitors now days.
Tahni has a few questions though she's not sure that Restlin or Sesha will have the answers. "Any ideas on who else has been invited? Why the secrecy in delivering this to us?"
------------------------ Spellcraft check vs DC20: Autopass Knowl Local check vs DC15: Autopass
Fang (Mitch) HP: 152/203 (236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday November 19th, 2019 6:53:12 PM
Fang eventually gets the memo of company, either from someone telling her or her hearing voices that suddenly stop, and meanders on downstairs. "What's going on, we have company?"
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Tuesday November 19th, 2019 7:08:01 PM
Bralin glances at Fang, and replies,
"The Chancer's Guild has invited us to take part in some competition that the Dragon Consortium divines will bring great woe."
The dwarf looks around the room.
"I have no knowledge of this Chancer's Guild," he states. And then, after a bit of thought, he follows up with, "Should the competition bring woe, does the Consortium intend for us to compete, or to force the Guild to cancel it?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Tuesday November 19th, 2019 8:47:30 PM
"What have the past contests been like? Any idea of the terms of the competition? I don't imagine they mean them to be battles to the death. But woe may mean someone is plotting to rig the contests against us, in a fatal way perhaps."
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Tuesday November 19th, 2019 10:57:50 PM
Rill looks at Terser. "4 to 5 is Terser's private time? Wha ... nevermind."
Looking at the scroll handed to him, Rill listens to the predictions of doom.
"I've never heard of a Chancellor's Club, but if your experts are saying our participation spells woe for the Wold, well, I think I can speak for all of us that we choose to NOT participate in this doom. There we just saved the Wold from doom!
"Hey, you said there are two new Dragon Consortium groups? Who's the other one?"
DM Carl - Were we expecting even more visitors? Wednesday November 20th, 2019 2:03:26 PM Aexana is briefly excited about going dancing before realizing it's not that kind of invitational. "Actually," starts Sesha, "it's likely there will be some sort of mixer before the competition starts. The Chancers are known for extravagance."
Tahni ponders the guest list and why so much secrecy is involved. "Other adventuring groups, mostly." answers Restlin. "The Invitational doesn't get a lot of respect from more serious groups. You won't see the Mailed Fist or Star Mages there. We figured that invitation was just them trying to lend the Consortium's status to their little contest."
Sesha speaks up. "The secrecy is for your benefit. There's more to this event than meets the eye. Divination is not an exact science." She pauses and glares as Restlin snorts a little at this comment. "BUT, I was able to determine the paths you've taken as a collective group intersect with this event. We didn't want to ask you to participate without being aware, but didn't want to take away your ability to feign ignorance."
Fang meanders down and gets caught up by Bralin. He asks about the Consortium's intentions.
"Your call," answers Restlin.
"True," replies Sesha. "But we've determined ignoring the invitation leads to much greater woe in the near future."
"We also don't like to act as the Wold's police force," chimes in Restlin. "We make some folks uneasy. If the Dragon Consortium decided we were going to start acting as a world government, few could stop us. Unilaterally canceling the Invitational would furrow some brows."
Terser asks about past contests. "Oh, they're fun to watch," answers Restlin. "The prize money's enough to bring in some heavy hitters, even if the more serious-minded groups avoid it. There's a field in place that does a good job of preventing accidental deaths, and actively trying to kill another contestant is grounds for immediate disqualification."
"Plus," Sesha adds, "If you were being set up to be murdered, I doubt the assassins would do so in a place where such death-prevention mechanisms were in place. You're involved in all this, but that doesn't mean it's a trap for you specifically."
Rill saves the world by not attending. Restlin laughs. "Man after my own heart. Simple answer's usually the right one, yea? Not this time, though. Something's trying to get your attention, and Sesha here says ignoring it doesn't make it go away."
"Far as I can tell," Sesha continues. "Whoever's behind this will likely escalate things further to get your attention. People will die. We hope to avoid that by asking you to confront this early in the game, in a place where death is actively prevented."
Rill also asks about the other new Dragon group.
"That would be us," Sesha answers. "There was not a new Dragon Consortium group for many, many years before we were invited. There were a group of surface drow like myself who were, but...well, that's a touchy subject for some. Best to let that sleeping dog lie."
"And the other Dragon Consortium groups were bearing the weight of the whole organization for a long time. Poor Valdor needs a break. They're looking to the Iron Dragons and Sea Dragons to step up and be the face for the whole Consortium. If only there was some public competition where everyone could see our newest members show what they're capable of, right love?"
Sesha sighs. "Don't be cute, dear. It's unbecoming." She turns back to the assembled Sea Dragons. "He's not wrong, though." Restlin gives a self-satisfied smile, but says nothing.
"It's up to you folks, though," he says. "We're just here to make you aware of a thing."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Wednesday November 20th, 2019 5:11:26 PM
With the story being told back and forth by Restlin and Sesha, Aexana has some trouble following it all. She did catch some highlights like 'People will die', 'Prize money' up to 'ignoring the invitation leads to much greater woe in the near future'...
"Hearing all this it seems we have little options... you say it's our call but I'm thinking our call has already been made hasn't it?!"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Wednesday November 20th, 2019 5:59:26 PM "All part of being a hero" Tahni smiles and then turns to Sesha "Any suggested preparations or idea on what we might expect?"
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Wednesday November 20th, 2019 6:17:21 PM
Bralin nods.
"Aye. We go."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 152/203 (236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday November 20th, 2019 8:04:00 PM
Fang shrugs. "Seems straightforward enough. Enter contest, win contest, draw attention of whatever will cause bad things latter so we can deal with it."
Jozhur d20+9=24 ; Wednesday November 20th, 2019 10:30:58 PM
"The Chancer's Guild? Sounds like a party." Jozhur ponders a moment, "Do we really intend to go if it has been divined that bad things will come of it? A grand tournament sounds great, but but if some awful thing is sure to happen, why bother?"
DM Carl - Were we expecting even more visitors? Thursday November 21st, 2019 2:23:49 PM
Sesha narrows her eyes just slightly at Aexana. "No," she starts. "Your call has not been made. You are free to ignore this situation. Millions of people every day ignore dangerous situations and fail to protect each other. You're free to be one of them." Youch...
Restlin wisely keeps his mouth shut for once.
Bralin, Fang, and Tahni agree this is something they should investigate. Tahni asks about preparations or what to expect.
"Can't say I've ever been to a Chancers Invitational," answers Restlin. "You're going in blind against something hidden from our most powerful diviners. That alone says it's something powerful. If it were me...well, if it were me I'd just walk up and see what happens. If I wasn't me, I might want to make I had my detectivin' cap on." He taps a crimson and gold top hat he hasn't taken off. If one were to inspect it closely, they'd find it to be a modified headband of vast intellect.
"Still, you'll be expected to participate in the competitions. Give them the flyer, dear," she says without looking up from the tea cup she starts drinking from. Restlin reaches into a pocket on the inside of his jacket and retrieves a folded piece of painted parchment. He unfolds it and places it on the table for everyone to see. A large green and blue sea dragon looms out of choppy waters, battling four or five groups of adventurers who wield a colorful array of flaming weapons and flashing spells. The words embossed over the picture detail an invitational event, hosting the most talented adventurers across the world, who are gathering to compete in four events. There are four events detailed on the flyer.
The Skills Challenge: “Come try your luck in our Chancers Gauntlet! Teams will work together to make their way through a gauntlet of combat, traps, and obstacles, aiming for the best time. This is a high risk challenge that only allows the use of mundane items! Skills and spells are okay!” Teams of three.
The Martial Challenge: “No wands, scrolls, staffs, potions, or spells here! Just tactical martial combat in various combat settings! Magical weapons, armor, and wondrous items that do not cast spells are allowed.” Solo combat.
The Magical Challenge: “Magic is the only form of combat allowed in this electrifying event! Teams will battle using only magical prowess. Melee combat is disallowed between participants, though summoned monsters may directly attack, and be attacked, by participants. No magical skill required to enter.” Teams of two.
The Grand Tournament: “Large Teams will fight against one another, looking to take home the grand prize of 1,000,000 gold pieces! Anything goes, except outside help from the stands!”
Please note: Great personal risk is assumed. While magic and artifacts will be in place to prevent anyone from actually dying, no one's safety is guaranteed and the Chancers are not liable for injury or death.
"Participating requires a team be fielded for each challenge," Sesha offers. "A letter accompanied this invitation. It offered the opportunity for any team from the Dragon Consortium that was participating to choose the size of the final tournament. That decision will be passed on to you, of course."
"You'll need to decide up front who will be in what challenge, though." Restlin reaches back into the same pocket and pulls out an envelope. He opens it to reveal a small, thick square of paper. "Here's your RSVP form. There's places to put the names of who's participating in what. Not sure why they're doing it that way, but it's their Invitational."
There is a small note on the bottom of the card: Substitutions are not allowed during challenges. Any attempts to do so will result in disqualification.
Jozhur wonders why they'd go if bad things will come of it. "Our divination showed woe for attending the tournament, but greater woe for not attending," answers Sesha. "You have the invitation. Feel free to perform your own divination. Your proximity to all this may afford you insights we missed."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Thursday November 21st, 2019 4:55:56 PM "So three for the skills one, solo for martial, and two for the magic. Does anyone have any preferences?"
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Thursday November 21st, 2019 6:42:51 PM
Aex never liked being the centre of attention so by shuffling slowly towards the back of the group she hoped to avoid participating in the tests. And if the time comes to select something after all, Aex will probably consider the Magical challenge.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Thursday November 21st, 2019 7:06:07 PM
"Martial," Bralin instantly responds to Tahni.
The dwarf considers. "Should we select Fang or Terser for the martial combat, I would likely fare better with the obstacles and combat of the skills competition than the magic."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 152/203 (236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday November 21st, 2019 7:24:42 PM
Fang hesitates. "My gut feeling is marshal for myself, but without my god empowering me I might not be the best choice. If no one else thinks they're more qualified I'll do it, else put me down for the skills challenge; my flexibility may help there. Or none, since it looks like 3 of us have to sit out."
DM Ken: Sesha Thursday November 21st, 2019 7:36:42 PM
Sesha sighs, then points out what might be a misconception.
"Please be aware, you can enter into multiple events. And more than one of you can compete in a given field. There's no reason Bralin and Fang couldn't both enter the martial tournament, they'd just fight through each other at some point."
She thinks for a second, then adds.
"The tournament is going to span many days. The events aren't all at the same time."
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Friday November 22nd, 2019 1:45:21 AM You are free to ignore this situation. Millions of people every day ignore dangerous situations and fail to protect each other. You're free to be one of them. Rill sees Aex back away from these Iron Dragons. He has little patience for anyone belittling Aexana, or any of his friends for that matter.
"Restlin and Sesha, you are kind to come here personally and share with us what you know about this event. Thank you for your gifts from the Sargrass. I remain confident that we can discuss this without you questioning the integrity or resolve of a Sea Dragon. To use Sesha's words, it's unbecoming. So let's get some glasses so we can enjoy this Grass Glass together and perhaps start over.
"Can we have two teams in a particular challenge? For instance, can we have two teams of two particate in the magical challenge, or two teams of three each attempt the skills challenge?
"Can we have some time to discuss this over the next few days?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Friday November 22nd, 2019 8:51:05 AM
"I don't think I'd be much use in the skill challenge. But I can scrap with the best of them, so martial is good for me. I would guess that we can all enter the group challenge together.
Jozhur, Fang, and Tahni could probably clean up in the skills challenge."
DM Carl - Were we expecting even more visitors? Friday November 22nd, 2019 2:37:55 PM Aexana hoped to avoid the limelight, ignoring Sesha's slight. Rill is less inclined to let it go, suggesting a drink and kinder words be used.
"My aim was not to impugn anyone's integrity, but to point out that you were...masters of your own fate. You are not being ordered to attend this event. We discovered a situation that involves you and brought it to your attention. Nothing more," Sesha replies coolly.
In the meantime, Restlin's already used his silent metamagic wand and a small sphere of glass to create 9 small glass tumblers. He's already pouring the liqueur into them before he chimes in. "We're a plain-speaking, confrontational bunch, Rill. It works for us, but we've angered our share of folks. My old buddy Kyan got us thrown in Hook City's jail for a few days once. True story, but it's not the time for telling it." This last statement raises Sesha's eyebrow a bit. He hands Rill and Aexana a glass first before passing out the rest.
A few more questions are asked of your guests. "You are able to field multiple teams for any challenge," Sesha replies to Rill, "but know that you'll face each other during the competition."
"As for a few days, probably? Most likely the Chancers want you there much more than you yourselves want to be. I doubt they'd even mention if you took a few days to discuss."
The Invitational beings 30 days from today* and is held on someplace called Ironfaith Island in Dragons Bay.
Knowledge, Geography DC 15, Highlight to display spoiler: {Dragons Bay is a series of small and medium sized islands between Yrth (the northern continent) and the South Continent.}
Knowledge, Geography DC 25, Highlight to display spoiler: {Ironfaith island is a medium sized island, known for its ferocious population of dire animals, and the Order of Domi, a group of monks who wrestle them for fun.}
Restlin and Sesha are happy to answer any further questions while the Grass Glass liqueur is imbibed, but take their leave once finished. "Wish our first visit could have been for something more pleasant than impending woe, but such is life in the Consortium," says Restlin before they exit the confines of the Private Sanctum spell. He offers Sesha an arm as they exit.
*The 30 days is to make sure you have time to craft, shop, pursue some personal roleplay, and arrange travel (though the Lionfish is more than capable of handling the journey). You can also feel free to do any homework on the Chancers or perform your own divination, but that's up to you lot.
What Ken and I will need is a final list of who's doing what event.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Friday November 22nd, 2019 5:23:39 PM
Rill inclines his head respectfully at the explanations from Sesha and Restlin. Everything's a lesson, and Rill will take this as a personal reminder to use care in how he treats other adventuring groups if we are called upon to visit them in the future.
"Shesha and Restlin - Aside from being a bit defensive, I am very appreciative that both of you took the time and effort to visit us and answer our questions about this event. Now, if both the Iron Dragons and the Sea Dragons are invited, does this mean we will be fighting against you in these challenges? I would not look forward to that.
"How may we remit our response once we have this figured out?"
(I'll start an email thread for discussion.)
Fang (Mitch) HP: 152/203 (236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Friday November 22nd, 2019 8:17:30 PM
Fang looks confused. "When did they say the Iron Dragons were invited? I thought it was just us. Anyways, sign me up for skills I guess, I'll prepare a wide selection of spells and can hopefully provide any muscle needed. Can also help with any religious riddles or wilderness if it comes up."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Friday November 22nd, 2019 8:51:28 PM
Tahni asks a few clarifying questions to help get the party better plan the teams:
"In terms of the martial and magical events, will teams be paired off to face each other 1-on-1 or will it be a more open style, where all teams are put into an arena of sorts and fight it out at the same time?
For the skills challenge, do you think bonded items would be allowed in or would they be prohibited by the 'no magical item' rule. It's a lot harder to cast spells without one."
-------------------- Knowl Geography vs DC15 and DC25: Autopass. Tahni will share with the others what she has learned from the spoiler text
DM Ken: Sesha Friday November 22nd, 2019 11:24:56 PM
"The bouts will be team vs team in an elimination tournament tree. I think a bonded item might not be allowed. In that particular case, they would be testing your concentration I suppose. I bought a Vediks headband for that very thing, but for different reasons."
Sesha considers Rill. He was direct, not impolite, and spoke his mind. She had no qualms with that sort of person, so she lets the issue of them being defensive rest. Perhaps they were.
"Also, the consortium was asked to send a team. The diviners told us they wanted you to go, because reasons only they know and many they cannot explain, and so here we are. If any Iron Dragons attend, it will be as spectators only, and we may be too busy for that even. There will be no bout of dragons versus dragons, Master Rill."
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Saturday November 23rd, 2019 9:03:42 AM
Bralin nods wordlessly again in response to Tahni's update on the geography.
The thought of living somewhere for the purpose of wrestling dire creatures is intriguing. Mayhap, upon retirement...
The dwarf's thoughts return to the present.
"I will sign up for the Martial competition," he restates.
"Should any wish to take part in a second team for skills or spells, I would be willing to join. Mayhap an unexpected combination in those competitions would prove out."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List d8=4 ; d12=5 ; Saturday November 23rd, 2019 3:52:21 PM
(Rolling HP, updating header. Aperently forgot to do anything other than give Fang new spells last time she leveled XD)
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Sunday November 24th, 2019 5:08:30 PM
Aex nods at Restlin as he hands her the glass tumbler. Savoring the liquor she listens to the conversation.
"30 days... good. That does leave me plenty of time to brew whatever each of you think could be useful. As for the trials... guess the magical has my name on it. I would be a joke if I were to enter the martial...
or?", Aex takes a longer sip
"Wait... what if one of our mages would join the marital challenges aiding our brawlers with spells?!? A warrior could put me down in no time... if he could reach me flying around invisibly... but he'd have a lightning up the lower end of his back before he spotted me...
Must we see each conquest so narrowly to our own skills?? "
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Monday November 25th, 2019 4:05:31 AM "It's a good idea Aex, but I think the rules mentioned no wands, scrolls, staffs, potions, or spells in the martial competition"
"The supernatural ability to change forms, however, might be allowed. That could be interesting."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Monday November 25th, 2019 5:16:53 AM "Yuk... never been good in following rules... I always pretend to didn't read them :-) "
Jozhur Monday November 25th, 2019 12:08:32 PM
Jozhur volunteers for the skills event, it seems right up his alley. He will also gladly fight in the big melee.
DM Carl - So, now what? Monday November 25th, 2019 2:00:53 PM Rill gives his thanks to the two Iron Dragons, asking if they'll be there as well.
Restlin smiles a little sadly. "Honestly Rill, I'd really love to go. No foolin', for serious, I think it would be a hoot. Can't make it, though. Mostly because our presence doesn't dictate whether anything bad happens or not, and Gargul's given us a nigh-impossible task that's taking all our time right now."
He also asks how they can RSVP. "I'd think a place like this had a local Chancers chapter," answers Sesha*.
Fang thought it was just them at this thing. Her hunch turns out to be right when Restlin speaks up.
Tahni knows where Dragons Bay is, and it's not, in fact between the Northern and Southern Continents. It's off the coast of New Elenna near The Scab.
OOC: We were originally going to have this thing in the Vague Lands, but Jerry said no. We missed that edit when revising the module. I got copy/paste happy.
Aexana figures she'll have time to brew before the trip. Wondering if she can somehow aid her companions in their own trials. Afterall, is it really magic if she just distills them from plants? Yea, it probably is.
Many of the Sea Dragons start volunteering or discussing which roles to play.
In the meantime, your visitors have departed, and you're free to prepare as you see fit. It will take 22 days to sail the Lionfish there, assuming perfect conditions. It's doable, but maybe you'd rather teleport? Totally up to our heroes.
There's also the matter of finishing the roster and RSVPing.
*It's reasonable that some of you have never heard of the Chancers. It's very unlikely any of your characters haven't, with the possible exception of Fang. Making themselves known is part of their shtick. It's also likely you'll find a presence in Bonetown (read: you will).
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Monday November 25th, 2019 4:51:31 PM
22 days at sea doesn't sound so bad now does it? 22 days of peace and quiet of the ocean... 22 days of staring at the horizon... swimming round the boat with the other dolphins... feeling the cool breeze through her feathers as she joins the other birds... who wouldn't prefer that over plain cold teleport...
All in favour raise your hand...
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Monday November 25th, 2019 6:19:57 PM
Terser favours a long voyage as well, though he chimes in that they should leave in 5 days or less, to give them some time to check out the area prior to the competition. And maybe check out the dire animal zoo.
He'll join the second skills team if necessary. If it comes down to it, he can yell anything into submission.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Monday November 25th, 2019 7:57:15 PM
Bralin doesn't raise his hand, but says nothing. He has joined a group of sailors, 'tis only natural they wish to sail.
The dwarf reiterates the teams he's heard:
Martial (one person) Bralin Fang?
Skills (three people) Jozhur, Fang, and Tahni Bralin, Terser and ??
Magical (two people) Aex and ???
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Monday November 25th, 2019 8:09:42 PM
(can 1 person enter multiple events, IE fang doing martial and skills?)
Fang is used to doing things on her own or with other priests. The idea they could just teleport there doesn't even occur to her and she's already going over her preparations in her head for the long journey. Food, but the experience crew will handle that. Clothes... should she take that really nice dress Restlin gave her? Yeah she probably should. She should really get more nice things, as comfortable as well-worn hides are she's a dragon now, she needs to be ready to speak at events and represent the group. Maybe Restlin would be up for a shopping trip, she's never really dressed up in anything other than skins or priest robes before...
She resolves to pull him aside to ask as soon as they're done talking, surely he could spare an hour or three.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Monday November 25th, 2019 11:22:56 PM
Rill gets to work on some scrolls.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Tuesday November 26th, 2019 5:30:43 AM
Tahni volunteers for the magical challenge. Her knowledge of arcane spells might prove useful, and would partner well with all those druid-y spells that Aex knows.
She goes to see Tula to give her the headsup that the Lionfish will be heading out shortly and to make preparations.
DM Carl - So, now what? Tuesday November 26th, 2019 2:39:31 PM Aexana thinks a relaxing 4+ weeks at sea sounds delightful, and the rest of our heroes seem to agree (or at least choose not to disagree).
Bralin starts making a list. Fang wonders if she can join more than one, then remembers Sesha specifically said that was allowed. She did mention it would entail you possibly competing against each other.
Then Fang wonders what she'll wear. She calls after Restlin before he has a chance to teleport himself and Sesha away.
"Shopping trip? Dear, I've never said no to a shopping trip." He looks around. "Though, Bonetown probably doesn't have as much to offer as Hook City. Come along if you'd like. You'll need to hold Sesha's hand." One of Restlin's arms is around Sesha's shoulder, and the other will be needed to cast his spell. "I'll bring you back when we're done." Sesha wordlessly offers a hand, but gives a friendly vibe.
Assuming she goes along, what happens next is a whirlwind. Restlin teleports the three of them to the Iron Tower in Hook City. Sesha stays behind as Restlin happily takes Fang through the market located on the bridge where Hook City gets it's namesake. Four enormous hooks hang silently in the air, and the bridge is tethered to them via an absolute mess of cables, chains, ropes, etc. "Not even I know how they stay up there," comments Restlin. He guides Fang away from racks of dresses. "We're Dragons, dear. Let's get you something bespoke." He doesn't explain what that means, but it involves looking at a lot of fabric and taking a lot of measurements. It also means they'll take some time to make. "I'll deliver these when they're ready. Should be in time to have them before your trip." He puts the order on his account, having moved past a point where such expenses are worth considering.
OOC: I'll leave the dress descriptions to Mitch, should he want to indulge in such a thing.
After they're done, he guides Fang through the crowded city streets. Restlin gets some attention, but mostly folks are used to seeing him out. He keeps a very public face. He stops by the temple of Wardd to introduce Fang and drop off a few goodies found on his last adventure. "Hoarding lucky finds is against our ethos here. Someone can no doubt use this stuff."
Their adventure over, Fang's invited to stay for dinner to meet the rest of the Iron Dragons before Restlin takes her back home.
OOC: Might have gone a bit nuts with all that, but it was fun.
Meanwhile, Rill's gotten to work preparing some scrolls for the coming adventure, and Tahni's set the Lionfish's crew in motion to get her ready for an extended journey.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Tuesday November 26th, 2019 5:18:20 PM
Aex is a little befuddled no one seems to object the long sailing trip...
"Euhm... folks... I was just kidding about spending 20 days at sea... as much as I would really enjoy that I seriously doubt we have that much time to spare at this very moment. But if you all seem to be up for such a voyage I'll be more than happy to go along! "
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Tuesday November 26th, 2019 6:10:49 PM
"Hey guys. Think any of this artwork will do as a sigil for the Sea Dragons? I was thinking of ordering a couple of tabards. One with our old flag from the Lionfish, and another with our new symbol. That should present as fancy enough over my regular armor."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday November 26th, 2019 7:56:04 PM
Fang is a little intimidated at the giant shopping crowd being not used to such things. She submits to the measuring dutifully, though a little surprised since Restlin had hers already for the last dress. Then again, different tailors so it's no surprise they'd want to do it themselves even if Restlin had kept her measurements. She really knows nothing about dresses and finery so is only able to provide a few favorite colors as guidance for whatever she ends up getting. She of course accepts the invite to eat with her fellow dragons.
DM Carl - So, now what? Wednesday November 27th, 2019 3:29:13 PM
Turns out Aexana was only fooling. She had everyone fooled, though, including your DM. Hopefully she'll let Tahni know before she gets everything set up.
Terser has been working on a new logo. OOC: Is there an actual logo for everyone to see?
Fang takes in the experience. The professionals Restlin takes her to are able to coax her preferences out; they've been doing this a long time. She has a nice meal.
Not much going on, otherwise. Maybe there's a holiday going on somewhere that's taking everyone's attention?
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Wednesday November 27th, 2019 4:36:01 PM
With open mouth Aex now observes her friends preparing for the boat trip... eyeballing Leafy and lifting her shoulders she as well begins to prepare. Herbs... she needs a lot of herbs... after all... no herbs growing on the water. She will see what is to be found deep below the surface though. Perhaps some rare seaweeds grow there...
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Wednesday November 27th, 2019 7:23:10 PM
"I would prefer to teleport," Bralin responds to Aex.
Bralin updates his list to take in Fang's and Tahni's response.
Martial (one person) Bralin Fang
Skills (three people) Jozhur, Fang, and Tahni Bralin, Terser and ??
Magical (two people) Aex and Tahni
The dwarf stares pointedly at Rill........
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Wednesday November 27th, 2019 7:51:05 PM "Uh, sorry folks. I thought it was serious that we were teleporting so didn't ask any further information from Sesha and Restlin. Without a detailed description of the place we're going I'm afraid my teleport spell won't work. Sorry, that one's on me. I could cast some divination spells to get a better look of the place and then try if we really don't want to sail?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Thursday November 28th, 2019 12:26:55 AM
Rill replies to Bralin's pointed stare.
"Very well Bralin, I would be happy to join you and Terser in a skills challenge, though I my skills are either magical or social. Since we cannot use items, I will be limited in what I bring to the table on this one, but I can focus my spell choices is ways that should help us out. And beside, since you made me an honorary dwarf, how could I say no?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Thursday November 28th, 2019 12:29:11 AM "As for getting there, I think we should sail. After all, we are the Sea Dragons. I'll check in with Tula to make sure she has our ship ready."
Rill will go down to the Lionfish and check in with our First Mate Tula to make sure she has things in order. He lets her know we will be making a several week voyage, and while Rill can provide food for the voyage, Rill asks Tula to lay in some additional food stuffs to supplement the rather bland food he can create. He also lets her know the cost of such additional food is no object.
Jozhur Thursday November 28th, 2019 1:14:27 AM
Jozhur shrugs, he wouldn't mind sailing and has little to attend to in Bonetown.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Thursday November 28th, 2019 7:17:12 AM
Tahni is relieved that the consensus is to go for a sail. It will be nice to have some down time and a chance to enjoy the open air.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday November 28th, 2019 8:26:21 AM
Fang gathers her things and is soon ready to go. She makes sure to pack all her new clothes (rather than describing anything now I'll just use this as an excuse to make up new clothes for her anytime nice clothes are needed)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Thursday November 28th, 2019 12:22:30 PM
Terser adds that he'll certainly take part in the solo martial challenge as well.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Thursday November 28th, 2019 5:00:30 PM
Sailing it is! Aex says rather cheerfully. She's looking forward to go diving with the dolphins...
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Thursday November 28th, 2019 5:11:02 PM
Bralin nods again, adding Rill to the skills challenge, and Terser to the Martial.
With the list complete, the dwarf takes the invitation, and makes his way to the local Chancer’s Guildhouse to accept.
DM Carl - So, now what? Thursday November 28th, 2019 8:22:22 PM Aexana wonders what she got herself into. She starts making an inventory for the 44 day round trip.
Bralin wants to teleport. He has the beginning of a list, and notes Rill's not on it.
Tahni lacks what they need to teleport, but surely there's a way to get what she needs, right?
Rill notices Bralin's stare and volunteers for the skills challenge. He still wants to sail.
Jozhur don't mind either way, but it looks like the consensus is sailing.
Terser volunteers for the martial challenge, completing the list. Bralin finalizes it and heads to the local Chancers' guild house.
The place is...ostentatious. It sits on the end of a private pier. Red vertical banners line the walkway as Bralin approaches. He notices that to the left of the building is a small stadium of sorts. Rows of seats line both sides of a large, open area. Building it over water must have been an ordeal. A private dock can be seen on the opposite side of the guild house.
Knocking on the door quickly summons an attendant who slides open an eye slot. "Passwo..." The attendant's voice cuts off as he realizes who's at the door. He whispers something quickly to someone next to him, and footsteps disappear and a few moments pass before the door is opened to reveal a sharp-dressed half-elf. "Master Stoneminder. You honor us." He makes a quick bow. "May I assume one of our members has caused you some headache this fine day?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Friday November 29th, 2019 2:25:32 PM
Aboard the Lionfish, Rill looks across the dock area toward the the Chancellor's Guild. It's funny how he's lived in Bonetown all his life and never really noticed that private pier. Or a building decorated with banners. Or an arena built over the water.
I guess sometimes when you grow up on a place you can take such things for granted, as he's never really had a need to go there.
If Tula has nothing more regarding the provisioning of the Lionfish or the upcoming trip, Rill will walk over and join Bralin.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Friday November 29th, 2019 2:37:44 PM
Fang spends some time considering her spell list and what variety of spells she should bring for the skills challenge. Normally she's almost all offense but she should probably swap out to cover a variety of challenges.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Friday November 29th, 2019 4:02:28 PM
Terser is somewhat thankful for his minimal spell list. He doesn't have to make any decisions.
In terms of a sigil, he plans to steal some art from their card set. He certainly doesn't have the skill to put something to paper, or cloth. Maybe he'll commission a local artist.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Friday November 29th, 2019 7:35:32 PM
Tahni tags along with Rill, just shooting the breeze.
DM Carl - So, now what? Saturday November 30th, 2019 10:20:20 AM Rill checks out the Chancers' Guild with fresh eyes. Funny how the brain just filters things out. It's really not his kind of place, though. He accompanies Bralin along with Tahni, walking up behind him as the half-elf greeter finishes asking his question. The man's eyes widen just a touch. "Master Savenport and Mistress Wyrmrider as well? This is starting to look official!" He smiles a bit before moving to the side and gesturing the three in. "Please come in and be welcome, Sea Dragons."
Meanwhile, Terser and Fang start prepping for the upcoming journey.
***
Thanksgiving week's always a slow posting week, but not officially. Let's be sure to get this back on track next week.
Regarding leaving on your journey, that's up to you folks. The Woldian Slowdown is approaching in a few weeks, and I don't want to start the actual competition before then. There's plenty to keep us busy until then, but it's something I'm working around. My point is if there's something you want to do in town, I'm in no great hurry to get you all shoved off.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Saturday November 30th, 2019 11:21:34 AM
Fang finishes messing with packing and goes to see what the others are doing. Upon hearing the others left she decides going to see this guild is more interesting then sitting around so she wanders off into town.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Sunday December 1st, 2019 5:02:06 PM
With the others gone, Aex and Leafy travel the woods around Bonetown they have gotten to know quite well. Already she knows patches where to find the best herbs she needs. She'll want a lot. Perhaps she will replace some potions she currently carries.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Sunday December 1st, 2019 5:32:05 PM
"Mayhap" Bralin replies to the man's question about causing headaches. "But, none from this chapter. It seems we have been invited to participate in the upcoming Chancer's Invitational. We are merely here to convey our acceptance."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Monday December 2nd, 2019 12:30:38 AM
Tahni stands just behind Bralin and stays quiet. Sure, she smiles politely but she doesn't speak up.
She looks about to see what the other member of this place are up to.
DM Carl - So, now what? Monday December 2nd, 2019 1:27:04 PM Fang rushes along to catch up with her companions. She sees them ahead, being ushered inside by a well-dressed half-elf.
As Bralin states his intentions, the man's eyes widen and the corner of his lips turn up. "A Dragon Consortium group accepted our invitation? This is an unexpected surprise, but a welcome one! It's going to play havoc in the betting pools..."
He pauses a moment, lost in thought, before shaking his head. "Ehem, I'm not directly involved with the Invitational, but I'm certainly able to get your invitation to the right people. You have it on you? Yes, excellent, and you've already got it filled out." Something catches his eye. "You've signed up multiple teams, possibly competing against each other?" He lets out a low whistle. "Fortunes will be won and lost on those contests." He clears his throat. "Yes, well. You've already made this year's Invitational one for the record books. This will make waves, I can promise you that." He waves the rsvp form in the air as he says this. "If there's nothing else, I need to put this in the right hands aye-sap." He waits, in case there are any more concerns.
Meanwhile, Aexana and her friend go herb gathering, preparing for a long journey her sarcasm may have helped bring about.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Monday December 2nd, 2019 3:45:20 PM "Thank you good sir. What is the location of this event. I need enough information to pass along to our crew aboard the Lionfish so they can navigate there. Is there anything we should avoid along the way, or any local requirements we should be aware of upon arrival?"
Rill will pass this information along to Tula. He then makes last minute preparations to go.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Monday December 2nd, 2019 5:41:12 PM
While gathering herbs Aex and Leafy talk to one another... or at least Aex talks...
"You know I was just kidding right Leafy?" Aex says to Leafy... Leafy: ".... " Aex: "What? They don't know sarcasm... that's for sure..." Leafy: ".... " Aex: "Oh c'mon... don't look at me like that! I know you don't like salt water... Leafy: ".Groomphf... "
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Monday December 2nd, 2019 6:47:50 PM
Betting pools? Tahni hadn't considered there would be any bets, but of course it makes sense.
She lets the others know of the conversation via the rings and then adds: "If gambling is involved then chances are there will be some looking to swing the odds in their favor. Cheating, sabotage, taking dives, and so on. Sounds like we might need to be on guard for what happens outside the arena as well as what happens in it"
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Monday December 2nd, 2019 7:19:41 PM
Bralin returns with Rill and Tahni, and relays the Chancer's reaction.
"We seem to have presented the bookies with an unexpected challenge," he notes. "I feel oddly pleased by their reaction."
Soon enough, the dwarf is ready to sail.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Monday December 2nd, 2019 8:45:40 PM
"It'll be interesting to see what they put the odds at. Especially for the solo combat.
I'd put money on the skills team I'm not on, but that's probably frowned upon."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Monday December 2nd, 2019 10:33:41 PM
Fang actually sort of meanders in the general direction of the others so she arrives about in time for them to finish up. Seeing that they're finishing up she just shrugs and walks over, kind of curious about the man and the group but not wanting to interrupt as they finish the sign up.
Jozhur Tuesday December 3rd, 2019 6:14:57 AM
Jozhur is intrigued by Tahni's thought. "You're right, best be ready for anything. We could also make a little extra coin while we're there."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Tuesday December 3rd, 2019 5:11:04 PM
Leafy continues ignoring Aex... it'll take a while before the young treat will forget it's Aex's fault they spent 20 days at sea...
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Wednesday December 4th, 2019 11:17:27 AM
Terser asks the team that reported to the Chancer's Hall if there were any posted rules or regulations about betting. Maybe the iron Dragons would want to get in the action, to raise some money for a good cause of course.
DM Carl - So, now what? Wednesday December 4th, 2019 11:39:12 AM
OOC: I owe you all an apology. I was going full steam all day yesterday, including a bunch of Wold business over email, then realized at 11:30 my time last night that I hadn't actually posted in any of my games.
Rill asks about the event's location. "Ironfaith Island," he responds. "It's in Dragons Bay, just off New Elenna's coast. Well, not just off, but close. Lovely place. Fits the aesthetic of the event quite nicely, what with all the rambunctious Domi monks running the place."
Leafy is having none of Aexana's explanations.
Tahni astutely figures there may be some cheating going on if money's on the line, which Jozhur concurs with. Bralin's happy with the stir they've caused.
Terser wonders if betting on himself would be frowned upon. Betting on one's self is generally acceptable. Betting against yourself would certainly raise eyebrows. Most bookies wouldn't take such a bet. Too much risk of impropriety. Maybe their Iron brethren would want in on that action...for a good cause, of course!
Fang arrives as her friends are finishing up, but chooses not to interrupt.
With the invitation accepted and the Lionfish's crew preparing, the Sea Dragons are ready to shove off! Or are they? They'll need to leave within a week to ensure enough time to reach Dragons Bay, but is there anything left in Bonetown they need? Time to speak up if there is, otherwise it will be time to go.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Wednesday December 4th, 2019 11:59:29 AM
Rill goes aboard the Lionfish to get his gear stowed. Having passed along the location to Tula and the crew, Rill will let her know that Rill will prepare a feast for the Sea Dragons and the crew before we depart.
As the time approaches, Rill makes sure to contact the Harbor Master to ensure an area near the docs can be cleared and the space reserved. He will use his Rod of Splendor to summon "a palatial tent—a huge pavilion of silk 60 feet across. Inside the tent are temporary furnishings and food suitable to the splendor of the pavilion and sufficient to entertain as many as 100 people. The tent and its trappings last for 1 day."
"Anyone wish to make a toast before we leave?"
Once the Sea Dragons and the crew have had their fill, he will then open the place up to the rest of those on the docs to make use or the place after we leave, warning them that it will only last for a day.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Wednesday December 4th, 2019 5:50:06 PM "Time to go my friend... please... pretty please?!?", Aex says.
Leafy shrugs his shoulders... grabs the wet cloth filled with fresh herbs and follows the Greenmage. Soon they are back in Bonetown just in time for boarding the Lionfish.
"Wind in the sails cpt'n! I've got some windspells prepped in case we need it. "
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday December 4th, 2019 6:53:28 PM "So... what'd you think of the Chancers guild? What does that name even mean anyway?" Fang is pretty much ready to go so is in no particular rush to get to the ship.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Wednesday December 4th, 2019 9:16:53 PM
"Been doing an awful lot of talking lately. Was hoping for a break after that interview!
Still, gotta honor this spread. It'll be nice to be on our way again, to bring glory to Bonetown and the Sea Dragons. "
DM Carl - So, now what? Thursday December 5th, 2019 1:18:31 PM
...and so the Sea Dragons throw a going away party for themselves and their crew. A noble gesture, especially seeing how they'll be away from Bonetown for over 8 weeks. Tula approaches Rill as the festivities wind down.
"We've got a situation, Captain," she beings. "Some of the crew wasn't thrilled with such a long journey being undertaken without much warning. That changed when they found out where we're going. Pinny and Sammy are really looking forward to it. I've got a them and a few others asking to be paid in advance, though. They want the coin to wager and such while they're there."
Perhaps our heroes pay their crew in advance anyway? Your DM's not sure.
Leafy finally aquieses, and decides to accompany Aexana on her journey. She makes her way to the Lionfish.
Fang wonders about the Chancers' Guild. If she wants to do her research, they're not an overly secretive group. It's easy enough to find out lots about them (which is detailed in the Woldipedia).
Terser will have *plenty* of time to not talk to folks on their trip.
If anyone else wants to do anything in town, make sure to put it in the next post, because we're shoving off.
A crowd gathers to see the Lionfish and her crew off. The morning sky is overcast, and a chill hangs in the air as our heroes pull away from the dock and out of the harbor. Hours later, the sun has burned off both the chill and marine layer, greatly improving spirits.
The Sea Dragons and crew fall into the routines of sailing on what is hopefully a peaceful, uneventful trip.
*I'll need profession, sailing rolls from each of you as appropriate. Two from Rill, please.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday December 5th, 2019 6:44:28 PM
Fang is about as much of a sailor as she is a bird. And unlike being a bird there is no spell that can magically fix her lack of sailing experience. She mostly sticks to below deck helping out with whatever manual labor is needed that doesn't really take much skill. She tries to pick up what she can about sailing from the crew and other Dragons but she's not the quickest student.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Thursday December 5th, 2019 8:10:09 PM
Like Fang, Bralin has no sailing expertise. The dwarf does his best to stay out of the way.
Occasionally, a crew member will call out to him to help pull something, or pick up something, or hold something. After several trips, the crew knows Bralin likes to be useful, and is willing to lend his hands and back to any task, without complaint or airs.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 d20+13=31 ; d20+13=21 ; Friday December 6th, 2019 5:21:46 PM
(Rill Profession: Sailor rolls are 31 and 21.)
As for the crew's pay, Rill is fine if Tula pays the crew ahead, and even doubles their pay.
(For the DM - when we last sold goods as the end of the last adventure, Rill provided Tula 500 GP for ship's provisioning and salaries.)
He responds to Tula passing along the crew's request, "Tula, Please feel free to pay the crew in advance and to pay them double as well this time. We want them in a good mood on this long voyage. Be sure to get some decent food and to order enough rum and ale for the voyage as well. Let me know if you need more funds."
Once we're underway, Rill lends his sailing expertise both to the running of the ship, and in proving training and direction to the Sea Dragons that might not be as familiar with sailing.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Friday December 6th, 2019 5:23:55 PM
Also, Rill did stop in to the local WLA Chapter to let them know where we're headed and to update his membership.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Friday December 6th, 2019 6:59:33 PM
Despite spending some time on the Lionfish, Tahni still isn't used to all the fancy names and pieces. The wheel, the sail, the deck. Yep, she knows all of those things. No idea what all the different rope terms mean, so she just nods and smiles to the crew.
Tahni is happy to contribute to whatever is needed to pay the crew fairly. They deserve it.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Friday December 6th, 2019 7:41:31 PM
While Leafy looks cranky, Aex basically has the time of her life on board. When her shores are done she shapechanges into a Dolphin and swims along with the Lionfish. Or she transforms into an Eagle and drawns lazy circles above the Fish.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) d20+2=6 ; d20+17=25 ; Saturday December 7th, 2019 12:13:35 AM
Terser makes himself less than useful about the ship. (Sailing 6) He manages to distract some of the crew with dice and card games to pass the time.
Eventually, Rill kicks him up to the crow's nest to put his eyes to use. (Perception 25)
The Journey
DM Carl - So, now what? Saturday December 7th, 2019 10:09:59 AM Fang and Bralin haven't picked up the finer points of sailing, but know how to stay out of the way and watch. They help out below deck.
Rill approves of Tula using her funds to pay the men in advance, even paying them double. She smiles and gives a quick salute.
Sense motive, DC 15, Highlight to display spoiler: {The crew aren't the only ones looking forward to the Chancers Invitational, it seems.}
Tahni, Aexana, and Terser also aren't sailors, it seems. Your DM has vastly overestimated the group's collective sailing abilities. Good thing they have a competent crew!
Speaking of the crew, they are in uniquely high spirits. All hints of grumbling about sudden, long journeys have vanished, replaced by the fact that they're all on their way to one of the Wold's biggest parties of the year with pocket fulls of coin. They sing, they dance, they are down right hospitable to your needs during the 4+ week journey to Dragons Bay.
At about week two, Aexana is swimming as a dolphin. She rides the Lionfish's wake as the sounds of the crewmen's singing filters down through the decks into the water. It's a calm, peaceful day when she spies a small underwater settlement on a plateau rising up from the ocean floor's depth. Simple buildings and a small, open area in the middle for gathering have been crafted from coral. From this distance, she has a hunch someone's guided the coral's growth for decades to produce them, rather than carved them from existing coral.
Six nereids sit around in the common area of the settlement, talking and playing without a care. When the sounds of the sailors' songs reach them, they smile and start swimming towards the ship. They are not paying Aexana any care.
Aexana only:
Sense motive, DC 20 (due to distance), Highlight to display spoiler: {They appear more curious than malicious.} Knowledge nature autopasses for you. You know everything about nereids listed here.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Saturday December 7th, 2019 10:16:58 AM
Fang is doing her best to learn the sea shanties of the sailors. She's not that great at picking up lyrics but the songs are pretty easy to learn and after two weeks she's belting them out with the rest, her tiny size hiding a powerful set of lungs.
Jozhur Saturday December 7th, 2019 12:51:48 PM
Jozhur is happy to see the crew in such high spirits. He's grown to like sailing, and the crew being so happy makes it that much more enjoyable.
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp d20+4=9 ; Saturday December 7th, 2019 1:46:13 PM
Jozhur is so happy he even joins in on the sea shanties this time, though everyone else probably wishes he wouldn't do that.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Saturday December 7th, 2019 10:37:14 PM
Tahni tries to spend a little time in the galley (another one of the words she knows!). She wants to get some ideas on how to improve her cooking. If someone can cook good meals at sea then she has no excuse not to be able to at home.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Sunday December 8th, 2019 5:07:20 PM
Bralin spends as much time below deck as he can.
It's dark, it's wet, it's cramped. In other words, it's a cave.
Bralin also attempts to pitch in with the singing. The dwarf has a bone-rattling bass which sounds good enough in present company. The crew sets to teaching him a harmonization line.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Monday December 9th, 2019 10:48:20 AM
Depending on the needs of the ship and crew, Rill spends much of his time in prayer and contemplation, either above or below deck, seeking Gargul's guidance on what should be done in the weeks ahead.
Even though he has been told that worse things will come to the Wold if the Sea Dragons do not attend this Chancellor's Club party, it still bothers him a bit that the group has been raised to the Dragon Consortium and yet we are heading off to what outwardly seems like a frivolous event.
The Arrival
DM Carl - Welcome to Ironfaith Island Monday December 9th, 2019 1:51:08 PM
There's not a whole lot to do on board. We've got adventurers learning to cook, we've got them singing along, we've got them trying very hard to find some place homey. Then there's Rill, hoping this isn't all just a big waste of time. It's a reasonable concern. Hopefully his fear will prove unsubstantiated.
Beneath the waves, Aexana watches as the nereids break the surface of the water. They begin harmonizing with a group of singing sailors, though evidently they don't know the words. They merely use their voices to provide background harmonies to their singing. The effect is immediate, as every sailor on deck who's able rushes to the port side to get a look.
Tula bolts down from the wheel, prepared to grab any over eager sailors by the collar, but her worry proves unnecessary. The sailors and nereids sing their song for a few minutes, then the nereids disappear giggling back under the water. Aexana sees them head back to their village. Guess they weren't feeling too hungry or mischievous today.
After 22 days at sea, finally your voyage comes to an end. As your crowsnest watchman calls out into salty morning air, “LANDS HO! Islands and wotsits north o’ focsle, depth shrinking, and bloody portcall hours away!*”, several crewmen scurry to the front of the ship to look ahead. Finally, the thick mist and fog of Dragon Bay begins to thin and through it, you see the large and looming silhouettes of land.
The island lands are definitely mountainous, some snow capped, and some actively churning circles of ash and debris in their peaks. From one large, flat landmass, shaped roughly like an anvil, three spears of light lance through the clouds into the sky. Shimmering brightly, in yellows, whites, and golds, there’s little question as to where the ostentatious Chancers have set up shop.
Many ships are already moored to a pier on the islands southern point, with many more smaller vessels anchored out at sea. Looming above these, two galleons are anchored as well. Most of the heraldry isn't well known, but the flags of the Mailed Fist and the Empire of Aisildur can both be seen.
***
I'm awarding 25k XP for roleplay and arriving safely at your destination with a happy crew.
*Ken wrote this. I have no idea what it means.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 d20+23=31 ; Monday December 9th, 2019 5:23:10 PM
(sorry lost time last to make it prior to the DM post - too bad I missed the nereid... )
As soon as land comes in sight, Aex changes to a seagull and joins the other gulls in the sky. Who knows what they have to say about this place... Long before the Lionfish actually docks, Aexgull will sit perched on a nearby fence. Checking who might be showing just a bit too much attentions to the Fish's arrival.
(perception 31)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Monday December 9th, 2019 5:32:08 PM
Terser is passing curious about the Mailed Fist entourage. He remembers seeing their emblem on the field in the Sargass battle and knows them to be valiant warriors in their own right. Could they be competing, too?
He glances around the rest, looking for any evidence of the sage's guild and hoping to maybe catch up with some old friends if they've come to see the festivities.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Monday December 9th, 2019 7:46:46 PM
Bralin comes up with the crew, just as eager to see land as they are.
Taking in the pageantry, the dwarf considers for some moments.
"Shall we announce ourselves with full pageantry, or slip in unawares?" he asks Rill. "The situation appears to call for something ostentatious."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Tuesday December 10th, 2019 2:27:02 AM
Tahni moves to stand beside Terser and Bralin and look out at the port.
"Well, they know that we're coming as entrants. That and the Lionfish is probably as well known as we are. We may have trouble getting in discreetly"
"If we do want to slip in, I can cast a Silent Image spell to help us blend in with the surrounds. Perhaps even make us look like a different ship?"
"Then again, I could cast something a little more 'lively' if we want pageantry" She's grins widely with something in mind.
Tahni isn't prepared to do either until she gets the nod.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Tuesday December 10th, 2019 4:08:04 PM "Well, subtlety has never been our strong suit. Jozhur's good at it, but, you know, we have dwarves.
"So, let's go with pageantry - or as close as we can get to that."
As the Lionfish pulls in to dock, Rill will use the Flag of the Captain to make sure the flag on our ship flies an emblem of a Sea Dragon in all its glory!
Then he will use his Rod of Splendor to garb himself "in magically created clothing of the finest fabrics, and adorns her with furs and jewels." Now properly clothed for the occasion, Rill will stand near the prow with the other Sea Dragons, and wave as we dock.
Fang (Mark Bradley sub posting for Mitch) Tuesday December 10th, 2019 4:09:55 PM
Hearing the word is pageantry, Fang will don some of the wonderful gab she recently bought for the occasion. She will stand in the prow with the others as we arrive.
DM Carl - Welcome to Ironfaith Island Tuesday December 10th, 2019 4:19:48 PM
Pageantry or a more humble entrance? Rill decides splendor, but honestly he never had much of a choice once the Sea Dragon herald is spotted coming into the harbor. Looks like Tahni was right.
The effect is immediate. Cheers can be heard from miles out as a huge throng of party-goers comes to greet our heroes. Rill rolls with it, glamoring himself in finery. The other Sea Dragons have time to put their party clothes on, should they have any.
A voice is heard booming out unnaturally loud as the Lionfish begins it's final maneuvers into the harbor.
"Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, you've been waiting for them and here they are! The Sea Dragons have arrived!" More cheers go up and the crowd parts. A spectacularly well dressed man walks through the gap, decked out in tails and top hat. He carries a scepter that appears to be pure gold, and is adorned in numerous colored-glass beads. If the Chancers had a mascot, this would be it. With a practiced maneuver, he tucks the scepter under his arms and swooshes his tails back as he sits. A small table and chair appear from no where to support him. He waits.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Tuesday December 10th, 2019 6:20:06 PM
Terser briefly considers riding in on Mr Treetrunks (the elephant), but figures it wouldn't be a good idea on the wooden piers. Unless they look like they would hold the weight.
It's still an option once they get onto more solid ground, and he would make for a fine addition to their procession. Too bad he's not something more Dragon like. Something to ask at the Catacombs next trip.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Tuesday December 10th, 2019 7:22:49 PM
Bralin pulls out his finery. A silver surcoat emblazoned with a black lion's head, and a shield cover of the same. "Must get a dragon," he notes to himself.
The dwarf's mithril armor gleams, as he activates his flying boots, and launches himself in a graceful arc from the Lionfish. His cloak billows out behind him in the wind, and he lands softly beside the table.
Saying nothing, Bralin turns his head to await his companions' arrival.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Wednesday December 11th, 2019 5:55:21 AM
Pageantry it is. Nice!
Tahni uses her arcane bond to cast a Programmed Image spell, triggering it immediately.
It starts with some drumming. It can be heard all around however no drummers can actually be seen. The sound starts building as the image of a massive dragon rises from the deck of the Lionfish to fly directly above the Sea Dragons. Between the burning smell, the heat radiating from the dragon and the beat of the drums, Tahni hopes it comes across a little intimidating to the other competitors - as well as a good show for all to see*! It ends with the dragon shifting form to appear as the Sea Dragon flag.
As with Bralin, Tahni flies over to the table. She gives a friendly wave to the crowd
--------------------------------- *Cast Programmed Image. Going for an entrance along these lines. The size of the illusion is a 20ft cube + 15 x 10ft cubes, and includes visual, auditory, olfactory, and thermal elements.
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp Wednesday December 11th, 2019 11:14:00 AM
Jozhur sighs, he isn't sure what to make of all this, and really doesn't want to show anything off prior to the competition.
He leaps from the Lionfish to the dock. Deciding he has to show off at least a little, he leaps from the Lionfish to the pier, landing with a roll before strolling up to the table.
Fang (Mark Bradley sub posting for Mitch) Wednesday December 11th, 2019 11:34:37 AM
Fang feels slightly self-conscious in her new dress. It's really not what she's used to wearing, but she also really, really likes it. And woe betide anyone that looks at her wrong.
She saunters down the gangplank to the doc as she realizes that her lifelong dream of joining the Dragon Consortium has brought her here. She enjoys the adulation.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Wednesday December 11th, 2019 12:04:32 PM
Rill is impressed with his companion's dramatic entrances. All he really did was get dressed up. He's especially impressed with Tahni's display. "Nice work Tahni! I think neither we nor they saw that coming. They're likely to remember this for some time."
Rill is glad of all the attention paid to the Sea Dragons.
He says to the others through the rings we wear, Good work Dragons. The people here should be impressed and hold us in high regard, not because we deserve their adulation but because of what we represent. We are a force for good in the Wold. So let us be a rallying point for them, teaching them what it means to serve something larger than ourselves."
As he move to the man with the top hat and scepter, Rill will take the time to smile and reach out to people in the crowd, paying special attention to the least of those here. If any are injured, he will take the time to channel a healing burst or two.
Eventually, he will make his way with the others to the fancyman with his little chair and table.
"Greetings. We are the Sea Dragons, and I am Rillett Savenport." Rill will then introduce the others if they have not already introduced themselves.
DM Carl - Welcome to Ironfaith Island Wednesday December 11th, 2019 3:17:01 PM
Looks like the Sea Dragons know how to make an entrance. Everyone, save Jozhur, puts on their finest. Terser finds the docks are a combination of thick wooden planks with stone supports. They can hold up several elephants, should he want to take Treetrunks out.
Anyone thinking of getting a dragon for a pet or mount should probably check out the house rules.
A parade of finely dressed Sea Dragons begins to make its way down the dock when Tahni takes things up a notch. As the image of a dragon crests over the ship, the crowd absolutely loses it. Cheers erupt, and the smiling man's lips creep up just a bit more. Our heroes find themselves pelted with flowers, beads, and (ahem) a few personal garments. Closer to the crowd, the Sea Dragons are able to see that the people before them come from all walks, but seem to all have debauchery in common.
Tahni and Rill are the first to make it to the sitting man's table. With a single finger raised in the air, the man silences the crowd.
"Greetings," starts Rill. "We are the Sea Dragons, and I am Rillet Savenport." Whether or not Rill has to introduce the rest of you is up to you, of course. For a pregnant moment, the man takes no action. Then, with a flick of his wrists, a clipboard and peacock-plummed pen appear in his hands.
He makes a large, dramatic check on the paper as he begins listing off our heroes. "Rillet Savenport"
"CHECK" answers the crowd.
Another check. "Tahni Wyrmrider"
"CHECK"
...and so on, until everyone's accounted for. When he's finished, he clips the pen to the board and tosses it into the air. A sudden *pop*, and it turns into a white dove that flies away from all this commotion. He stands, and the table and chair vanish into smoke. "Welcome to the Invitational, Dragons. Folks, let's give them a welcome!"
Then, our heroes find themselves crushed by well-wishers, hangers-on, and other assorted party goers, all eager to meet the Dragons.
Perception, DC 25, Highlight to display spoiler: {Out on the edge of the crowd stand 7 well equipped men and women of various races, all bearing the insignia of The Mailed Fist on their chests. They place a fist to their chest and bow with a slight smile in unison.}
The following rolls are just for those who succeeded on that roll.
Knowledge, Local DC 20, Highlight to display spoiler: {The Mailed Fist doesn't get out of bed for free.} Sense Motive, DC 25, Highlight to display spoiler: {Defeating the Sea Dragons would be wildly profitable for the Fist.}
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+12=16 ; Wednesday December 11th, 2019 4:58:50 PM
Tahni is happy to have the flowers rain down on her. The beads, well, they are a little uncomfortable. The personal garments are just downright disturbing.
She's happy to meet with the crowd although doesn't want to get mobbed. She knows that this tournament will likely attract people interested in gold and doesn't want to lose her purse!
"We've got the Mailed Fist watching us." Tahni gives a nod of acknowledgement to the warriors "Do you think they're here as entrants or to police the event?"
Perception vs DC25: Autopass Knowl Local vs DC20: Autapass Sense Motive vs DC25: 16=Fail
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP166/166 - AC31/23/25 - CMD 27 Wednesday December 11th, 2019 5:51:47 PM
Aex has been observing the docks in seagull shape while the Lionfish was making port. She noticed the mailed fist taking interest in the Sea Dragons.
She flutters up and takes a seat close to the Mailed Fist group... the when most of her friends have signed their name Aex changes back to her own Gnome self. Wearing vibrant greens and her hair more purple pink than ever she spins around and makes a bow in front of the Fist party...
"How nice of you to welcome us..."
Then she walks up to her friends and signs has her own name checked. "Aexana"
Leafy is happy to get his roots in the dirt and looks a lot more cheerfull...
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) d20+14=21 ; Wednesday December 11th, 2019 6:46:53 PM Perception 21
The crowd is more than Bralin bargained for, and he spends his energy glad handing well wishers, as well as checking the state of his pockets quite a bit.
The dwarf doesn't even see the Mailed Fist, and so leaves Tahni's question unanswered.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Thursday December 12th, 2019 2:19:53 AM
" Does the Fist have the kind of heavy hitters to compete or police this event? In fact, who is in charge of policing here?
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp d20+28=47 ; d20+9=12 ; d20+23=26 ; Thursday December 12th, 2019 7:30:59 AM
"Nah, they're here to compete, Terser. To beat us, probably."
perception: autopass knowledge local: fail Sense motive: 26
DM Carl - Welcome to Ironfaith Island Thursday December 12th, 2019 4:07:02 PM
Our heroes are mobbed, and a few grow fearful of their purses. Despite the ample opportunity, no thieves come forward to rob them. Another look around reveals why that might be. Dozens of monks move gracefully through the crowd. They fit many of the stereotypes: they wear robes, they're bald or close to it, and they're all exceptionally fit. Each wears the symbol of Domi on their robes. Most appear friendly, and many sport the same beads other party-goers wear.
Perception, DC 20, Highlight to display spoiler: {Many of them sport scars from what are probably claw marks.}
Aexana goes from gull to gnome. Your DM is going to have to stop taking for granted that she's a humanoid at any given time. She makes her way to the Mailed Fist gathering while her companions suss out their intentions. Up close she gets a better look at the assembled adventurers:
A fierce looking human female with a bastard sword strapped to her back and a holy symbol of Ffloy displayed prominently. An equally fierce looking ursine beastfolk with numerous piercings and tattoos on shaved areas of fur. Gender is unclear, but it carries a large (for it) staff with ritualistic adornments. An older elven man who looks like he just rolled out of bed. He's unarmed and it's not clear what his role is, but he's super handsome. A lithe surface drow woman. She's the only one of the bunch not smiling at Aexana. She's also unarmed, but is dressed in a gorgeous silk and velvet black dress that hugs her like a second skin. The air around her is unnaturally cool, and even her companions stand a foot or so away from her. A half-orc man with sharp eyes and a face that manages to be warm despite the tusks. He's the only one wearing metal armor: a magnificent looking suit of full plate. A centaur with a fancy bow strapped to her back and a quiver that holds many more arrows and javelins than it should be able to. A human male with very short black hair. He's dressed simply and looks way too pleased with himself.
It's the half-orc who greets her, taking a knee and offering a hand. "We're honored you're joining us, miss. I am Crall, and these are The Sapphire Seven." He gestures to the group behind him. They smile and wave, genuinely friendly. Well, except for the drow woman. Her face is unreadable.
"It's not every day we get to test ourselves against the Consortium," he continues. "We are very much looking forward to meeting you in the arena."
It is not a threat. The man's demeanor remains welcoming and the rest of his companions (except that drow) follow suit. He stands. "We'll let you settle in. Come find us later if you're looking for company that's only a little drunk. You won't find many around here who are." He smiles broadly and takes his leave.
Teser wonders if The Mailed Fist has groups capable of competing in something like this. The answer is a resounding "absolutely they do." Our heroes should remember that they were invited into the Dragon Consortium not only because of their ability, but because of their dedication to protecting the innocents of The Wold. There are a number of groups who posses only one of those.
Back on the ship, Tula walks slowly back and forth in front of the assembled crew members. She takes her sweet time inspecting them. Even from the dock, several sailors can be seen positively vibrating with anticipation. Tula stops at the end of the line, waits another few seconds, and simply says, "dismissed." Immediately, dozens of whooping sailors race down the gangplank and vanish into the crowd.
Knowledge, Local DC 30, Highlight to display spoiler: {The Mailed Fist rank and file is mostly warriors. These folks must be one of the 'Specialist Teams' the Fist calls on for special jobs.}
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Thursday December 12th, 2019 9:00:19 PM
This group seems a lot more capable than the previous group they ran into. He's suitably impressed.
He looks around for any other groups that look like they'll be fielding teams for the Melee.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Thursday December 12th, 2019 9:01:51 PM
Having grown up in Bonetown and not ventured from there much before he joined the Black Lions, Rill has never heard of the Mailed Fist. But he is discerning enough to sense that these folk are here for the notoriety and the wealth that would bring. He shares his thoughts with the Sea Dragons.
As the Sapphire Seven leave, he will nod politely from a distance. And if Aexana conveys their offer of a drink later, he will indeed seek them out.
"We should take them up on their offer. It's good to know your competition, and I have a feeling these games are more than just a contest. We may need them as allies before this is all over.
"But first things first - we'll need a decent place to say. The Lionfish has been nice, but I could use a proper bed and a real bath."
Rill turns to the popinjay that checked us in. "Good sir, what is your name please? Can you recommend a good inn or two? We would like to find out more about the rules and limitations of this contest. Also, if you can tell us where the Mailed Fist group is staying, that would be good to know as well."
(Sense Motive on the man to see if his recommendations are in our best interest or his.)
Once we are out of earshot of him, Rill will also ask the monks for a recommendation on a place to stay - just to make sure we are being steered in the right direction.
Fang (Mark Bradley sub posting for Mitch) Thursday December 12th, 2019 9:04:06 PM
Fang takes special note of the ursine beastfolk with the Mailed Fist group. She'll attempt to catch his eye if she can, thinking to make a connection with a like minded soul.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Friday December 13th, 2019 4:57:51 AM
As the Saphire Seven introduce themselves to Aexana she smiles at each of them in return. However she does hesitate when eyeballing the cold surface drow. There's something mesmerizing about her in her gorgeous attire...
A little bit surprised by the Half-Orcs gesture Aex takes his massive hand in her tiny Gnome ones... however kneeling he's still taller than she is. Never the less, it's a funny sight.
"We'd be delighted to share a drink with you Sir Crall...", Aex returns and looking at the Saphire Sever she continues, "and with all of you... ". Then her eyes rest on the surface drow... "well... maybe not with you... no offense but you give me the creeps... no one ever told you that?!?"
Leafy comes to stand next to Aex...
"Oh this shrubbery is Leafy... he still looks a bit wrinkled from the long voyage... he doesn't do well with salt water... but he's a great friend. "
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+25=42 ; d20+25=40 ; d20+31=48 ; Friday December 13th, 2019 6:35:51 AM
Sapphire Seven? "They look like one of the Mailed Fist specialist teams and not your average troops. They're likely very well trained and prepared for this. I wouldn't be surprised if they've heard of us and know our strengths and weaknesses. They could be quite a challenge"
She's keen to have a drink with them to get a better idea on what is going on, but getting set up in a place to stay sounds like the first thing to do.
"Now that we're here we might find that our divination spells reveal move than the ones that the DC have already tried. Couldn't hurt to try"
------------------- Perception vs DC20: Autopass Knowl Local vs DC30: 42=Pass Knowl Local 40: To see if Tahni recalls hearing anything about the Sapphire Seven and their achievements Perception: 48: Just to be alert to what is going on. Arcane Sight + Darkvision + See Invisibility
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) d20+14=27 ; Friday December 13th, 2019 10:01:42 AM Perception 27 Ah. Our monks that wrestle dire creatures. I like them.
Bralin agrees with Tahni's assessment of the Sapphire Seven, and gives them an appraising eye as they banter with Aexana.
He nods politely to any that make eye contact.
A place to stay does seem the first order of business, and the dwarf wordlessly awaits the results of Rill's investigation into the matter.
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp Friday December 13th, 2019 12:12:24 PM
Jozhur also gives a polite nod to the Sapphire Seven, giving the surface drow his best charming wink and smile. They look like they may be some stuff competition.
DM Carl - Welcome to Ironfaith Island Friday December 13th, 2019 1:20:57 PM
Ah, druids. When it comes to brushing off societal norms, accept no substitute.
Aexana returns the Sapphire Seven's welcome by insulting one of their members. The older elven man holds in a chuckle, but the rest let their smiles fall. The drow in question only manages to look more bored. Crall maintains his smile, but it lacks the warmth it once held.
"Yes, well Urlryn can be intense, but I've trusted her with my back for years. We'll see you around, Aexana." With that, they turn and are gone. They pay Leafy no mind.
Terser sizes up more competition, but the Sapphire Seven are the only obvious competitors. Maybe that group of teenage girls each carrying a bottle of wine around are competitors, though. Who knows?
Tahni recognizes the Sapphire Seven for what they are. She also wonders if additional divinations here would give them more insight on why they're here in the first place. One way to find out!
Fang catches the ursine beastperson's eye. She can likely tell he is a him. He gives her an intense stare right back, mostly curious. Perhaps he's never seen a well-dressed rat woman?
Jozhur recognizes a kindred spirit when he sees one. He gives her a wink and, to everyone's surprise, she smiles back. Her short haired companion raises an eyebrow and gives Jozhur the universal not bad nod.
Bralin approves of the monks' hobbies. He's wondering about accommodations when Rill speaks up.
Rill approaches the MC who greeted them and asks his name and for accommodations.
"Kozy," he answers with a bow. "Kozy Tinkwicket at your service. We've assigned you your own handler for the event." As if on cue, a gorgeous blonde human woman appears at Rill's side. She is dressed only in an electric blue bikini with a floral cover that wraps around her waist and reaches just above the knee. She is barefoot, and wears a number of pieces of fine, gold jewelry around her neck, wrist, and ankle. Half her head is shaved. The hair on the other half obscures one eye. The visible eye is violet.
"Heather here has arranged your accommodations," says Kozy. He hold his scepter out and opens the top on a well-disguised hinge. From a hidden compartment, he pulls out a slender metal rod with a red button on the tip. He hands it to Heather. She tucks it into her bikini bottom strap.
"Everything is ready," states Heather. "Follow me." She smiles and starts walking without waiting for an answer. Her entire back is a tattoo of a rainbow-hued wingless dragon in flight.
"With this being your first Invitational, and with your invitation arriving later than most, I decided to provide private accomodations. I hope they're to your liking."
Heather guides you through the throng to a quiet section of the beach where a giant tent has been erected. Two monks stand guard at the only entrance inside.
Perception, DC 40, Highlight to display spoiler: {No cheating on this one. Email me if you succeed. :D}
The monks open the flap to allow the party to enter into what can only be described as the most opulent tent anyone's likely seen. Thick rugs cover the floor. Rice-paper partitions separates a common area with a large stone hearth and an abundance of overstuffed pillows for seating from a sleeping area with what look like down mattresses with matching comforters. There is a smell of incense in the air, as if it was burned hours before and faded to the slightest hint of sweetness. Looking up, the twilight sky is visible. It's obviously an illusion since you're for sure indoors, but it's masterfully done.
There's even a large wooden pot filled with near-black loam for Leafy. It appears to be freshly watered.
"Today is just for checking in," says Heather as she follows you in. "Most meals here are communal, but I've arranged for a private dinner for you to help relax after such a long voyage." She removes the metal rod Kozy gave her and holds it out to no one in particular. "If you have need of anything, day or night, simply press this button and I'll be along shortly.
"The Invitational officially kicks off tomorrow at the opening ceremonies just before noon. There's a parade immediately after for all the competing teams. Participation is optional, but it's considered bad form not to. Tomorrow afternoon is the Gauntlet Challenge unveiling, followed in the evening by the Ceremony of Odds."
She holds out the metal rod until someone takes it. "Any questions before I check on supper?" she asks.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+23=35 ; Friday December 13th, 2019 3:00:26 PM
Aex turns around with a Steve Urkel face saying 'Did I do that?!'
"Is it me or do these guys handle humor or sarcasm the wrong way?! I was just kidding... sjeez... that's going to be fun later on. But then again... with some luck they'll all try to hit me first... eurhmm... no that's not a good idea... "
The little gnome shrugs her shoulders and follows the rest. Leafy seems to have somewhat of a smile on his face...
Perception 35
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp d20+28=44 ; Friday December 13th, 2019 3:44:01 PM
Jozhur carefully eyes the monks, not entirely sure about trusting outsiders to keep watch.
"Thank you for the hospitality, Heather. Do you know where the Mailed Fist group is staying?"
Jozhur thinks making friends with them may not be a bad idea, just in case things go south here.
Fang (Mark Bradley sub posting for Mitch) Friday December 13th, 2019 4:46:08 PM
Fang walks along with the others. When she enter the palatial tent of infinite comfort, she relaxes a bit.
"Boy, those Saphire Saps are pretty touchy. And Aex was right - that drow woman was a little creepy. I'd like to talk to that bear guy if we get the chance."
She will take a quick lap around the inside of the tent, looking for anything unusual. Along with Jozhur, she keeps a close eye on the monks.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 d20+38=52 ; d20+33=45 ; Friday December 13th, 2019 5:19:20 PM
(Rill's Perception roll was 52. I will send the DM an email on this.)
Rill regards the half-naked woman with some curiosity. Violet eyes? Dragon tattoo? Interesting.
He will take the metal rod from her, and set it in a conspicuous place where any of his companions can summon her.
"Thank you Heather. The accommodations you arranged for us are just fine, and we appreciate your work on our behalf. While your attire is your affair and quite attractive, your bearing suggests you are more than just a bikini. Are you being treated well here? Is there anything the Sea Dragons can do for you?"
"As for this invitational, we are indeed new to both the event and this place. Is there anything we should know, or more importantly anything we should avoid while we are here? Also, we seem to have gotten off of the wrong foot with the Sapphire Seven. Is there a convenient way for us to contact them?"
Rill will use Sense Motive (45) to gauge her reactions.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+31=43 ; Friday December 13th, 2019 6:31:37 PM
A beautiful woman and a bikini? Why is it never a shirtless male dwarf? I guess that's why we have Terser.
"I trust the guards here are only to keep others out?"
Tahni looks about the tent with her arcane sight to see if there are any spell effects in place.
"I really need to learn that Mage's Private Sanctum spell. Wouldn't want anyone to sneak up on the tent and eavesdrop"
-------------- Perception check vs DC40: 43=Pass Spellcraft check to ID any spells in place: 43 (33+Take10)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) d20=20 ; d20=16 ; Friday December 13th, 2019 6:34:46 PM
Terser has little chance of noticing tiny details. Unless it's a stonework trap of some sort. (In which case, perception 41!)
"Anything we should know about the parade? Like if we need to look fancy, these are my only nice duds, and I wouldn't want a repeat. Is there a tailor around?
And a quick rundown of the gauntlet rules would be nice. Wouldn't want to bring in anything I'm not supposed to and get disqualified.
And last thing - will you know who uses the summoning rod? It could be dangerous for you if it got into the wrong hands. "
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Friday December 13th, 2019 6:47:56 PM
Also, Rill will use some of his sensing skills as Heather answers. He uses his Deathwatch ability from his circlet, and his class abilities to Sense Outsiders and Constructs.
---------------------------- Deathwatch - Range 30'. You instantly know whether each creature within the area is dead, fragile (alive and wounded, with 3 or fewer hit points left), fighting off death (alive with 4 or more hit points), healthy, undead, or neither alive nor dead (such as a construct). Deathwatch sees through any spell or ability that allows creatures to feign death.
Sense Outsider - Sense direction and distance to any outsider, fey, demon, devil, or elemental within 1,080 ft., even through solid objects.
Sense Construct - Sense direction and distance to any any construct, animated object, or golem within 1,080 ft., even through solid objects.
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp Friday December 13th, 2019 9:25:42 PM
Jozhur let's the others know, using their DC rings, There is something off about the guard on the left as we entered. I'm not sure what it was.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Friday December 13th, 2019 11:27:49 PM "I picked up on it as well, but can't put my finger on it. Could be good, could be bad. Let's wait until Heather is out of here before doing anything. It could just be he wants to talk to us about something"
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Saturday December 14th, 2019 12:16:16 AM "That one monk is a soulless construct. Any thoughts before we destroy it?"
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Saturday December 14th, 2019 11:51:54 AM
Everyone is invited to the retirement party for the
Iron Dragons!
To be held on the Giggling Ghost board! Starting Monday, December 16 and continuing all week.
Please come help celebrate their incredible journey from level 1 through level 20. [June 29, 2009 - December 13, 2019]
There will be stories! Speeches! [yes we'll make them do this ::grin::] Questions and Answers Free imaginary food!
Feel free to head there now, but the festivities start on Monday.
-----
Then starting Saturday, December 21st, our Woldian Slowdown begins along with our YULETIDE CELEBRATIONS in the Giggling Ghost.
ACDM Rob is in charge of the festivities in the Giggling Ghost during the Yuletide Slowdown. He will send out an email sometime before the 21st explaining how the Giggling Ghost activities will work.
As a reminder, all requirements to post daily in your Career game are banished until Monday, January 6, 2020. A reminder to begin posting will come out the weekend before to remind you. During the Yuletide Slowdown: --no game may be in combat --no game may advance its story line in any significant way --posting is allowed, but not required by players or DMs --all games should be in a relatively safe location where those who desire may roleplay for fun
Everyone who wants to roleplay are encouraged to hang out and post as much as you like in the Giggling Ghost and participate in the activities happening there.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Sunday December 15th, 2019 12:06:18 PM Mayhap we should ask its companion about it, 'ere we start slaughtering our guards, Bralin answers Rill dryly.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Sunday December 15th, 2019 6:41:59 PM "... euhm... what about a soulless construct?! Did someone send it here to observe? Then perhaps we ought not to destroy it but instead send false info? ... or am I again missing the whole point here?!... could be... "
DM Carl - Welcome to Ironfaith Island Monday December 16th, 2019 12:32:52 PM
For Pete's sake. Don't these people know sarcasm when they hear it? So touchy...
Jozhur keeps an eye out, as always, then asks Heather if she knows where that Mailed Fist group is staying.
"I do, Master Derile. When everything is to your liking here, I would be happy to accompany you at any time." Gracious, even this woman's voice is pretty.
Fang agrees that the drow was creepy, but that bear guy caught her eye. She makes a quick lap. Your DM wonders if she runs on two legs or four.
Rill accepts the rod from Heather, but places it in a common area. He makes sure Heather hasn't found herself in a bad situation...I think. Your DM reads this as Rill making sure Heather's not being trafficked.
Heather smiles coyly. "You like it," she asks, doing a little spin. "I am not treated well, poorly, or anything in between, but I assure you I treat those under me quite well. I will only be young once, Master Savenport; I intend to enjoy it. Don't worry about me.
"Now, for things you need to know? Violence and petty larceny is unheard of at the Invitational, but scams and hustles are a part of life here. They're not encouraged, but those in charge have a strict policy of not getting involved. I will only warn you to think carefully before signing anything or handing over coin you can't afford to lose." Rill gets no sense that Heather's hiding anything (quite the opposite, she's very comfortable putting herself out there).
OOC: Jozhur already asked about contacting the Fist.
Tahni wonders why it's never a shirtless male dwarf. If that's what she's looking for, the Invitational can certainly provide. Maybe she can ask Heather?
"The guards are here mostly to turn away gawkers," she answers. "Any dangers you're not capable of handling would most certainly overwhelm the two of them. You can be assured of their discretion, as well as mine."
Terser has a few questions of his own. He asks about attire for the parade. This raises her eyebrow. "I would have thought a man of your station would be above such concerns. I can arrange for a tailor for you, but the Invitational is a chance for everyone to be themselves. You'll find there's not a lot of judgement going around this week."
He asks about the Gauntlet. "Sorry Master Terser, you'll have to wait for the unveiling like everyone else." She waggles a shameful finger at him, but it's obviously in jest. If pressed, Heather will explain that the unveiling is the official reveal for each event that happens the evening before the day of the event itself.
Lastly, he asks about any danger of the summoning rod being used against her. "Try it yourself," she says as she goes to stand behind the rice-paper partitions. Should Terser test it, an illusion of Heather appears before him, and an illusion of Terser appears before her.
A few of our heroes notice something off about the monk who was to the left of the door on their way in. Rill, thanks to his training, realizes it's a construct. Obviously the thing will need to be destroyed.
Bralin suggests that's a bad idea. They should probably dig a little before they start slaughtering guards, even ones that are constructs. That would probably be prudent.
Rill lets his magic flow through the crowds outside. There are quite a few outsiders, but is it surprising they'd be at an event like this?
There are also dozens of constructs. That may be a little harder to hand wave away.
Heather is still waiting to address any concerns or be dismissed.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Monday December 16th, 2019 5:23:49 PM
Rill will cast Miracle to duplicate the effect of Mage's Private Sanctum.
That will allow the the others to speak to Heather in private and ask her about the construct monk.
Then Rill will use Probe Psyche on the construct monk to see what he can learn about the thing (this takes 1 minute, during which his eyes go completely white.)
----------------------- Probe Psyche - After one minute of observation and/or conversation, a seeker can use this ability to gain insight on the creature. The target may make a Will Save against this ability, at a DC of 25 to resist the effect. If the target passes their save then their alignment is revealed. If the target fails their save the seeker knows their alignment and personality, and gains a +2 Insight bonus to attacks, armor class, and spell DC against the creature. Creatures almost universally view the use of probe psyche as unnerving at best, rude and insulting at worst. NPCs subjected to the power shift their attitude toward the soulseeker by 1d3 steps toward hostile.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Monday December 16th, 2019 6:25:36 PM
Now that it's private...
"That's really handy. I could see getting some of these wands to talk back to the folks in Bonetown when we're away. What's the range limit?
And also, are everyone's rooms guarded by a monk and construct team?"
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday December 16th, 2019 7:05:54 PM
Aex has proven herself ill-fitted for diplomacy so she avoids talking to anyone.
"Wise move to keep quiet..." Leafy chuckles in her ears ... Aex holds of making obscene gestures...
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Monday December 16th, 2019 7:07:46 PM
Fang shrugs. "Constructs make sense. They have to keep people safe and if you can afford making one it saves on pay, room, and board compared to a like number of living guards long term. If we want to make a good impression tearing apart their property is a bad idea."
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Monday December 16th, 2019 7:19:15 PM
Bralin leans over to Fang. "Tis a Grim's duty to destroy constructs, and any soulless creation," he notes quietly to the beastfolk. "And our comrade is a very good Grim. Thus, our dilemma."
Turning to Rill, he opines. "I advise patience. Neither it nor we are leaving this island for some time. This provides time for investigations. Is this the only construct? If there are others, do they come from a single source? What is that source's intent? What is the island's policy on constructs, or destruction of same? Whether we agree with them is a different matter, but we should at least ascertain the threat level should they react poorly."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday December 17th, 2019 6:09:38 AM
Fang oohs and feels stupid. She was actually aware of all of those things, yet somehow failed to connect any of the dots.
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp Tuesday December 17th, 2019 8:10:20 AM
Jozhur almost doesn't realize Heather is addressing him, "You can just call me Jozhur please, and I'm no one's master." He's not quite sure what to make of this Heather gal, and doesn't entirely trust talking openly around her, surely she is being paid to host them by the people who run this.
He agrees with Bralin, "I think we would be booted out of here if we did such a thing. We best behave.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Tuesday December 17th, 2019 8:30:48 AM
Tahni isn't quite sure what to make of Rill's revelation that the monk is a construct.
"As Fang has said, it may make sense to have constructs as guards. No need to eat or rest. It could be that this construct is here in good faith. Still, Rill, if you want to throw down I'll have your back"
She waits to hear what Heather has to say on the matter.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Tuesday December 17th, 2019 12:59:08 PM "As a Soulseeker, I remain committed to the shepherding, care and rebirth of souls in this Wold. We are told that soulless things like golums and constructs are a mockery of life, and so we work to end such things where we can. Such are Gargul's teaching on this.
"But I have learned that just as Gargul has given me great power, he also expects me to use good judgement in how I wield that power. And if my faith cannot evolve and change according to the needs in the Wold, then I myself have become an automaton parroting what I am told and acting without thought. In which case, I am little more than a construct myself.
"So I am good with finding out more about this construct monk. Perhaps we will learn that this creature has a soul, and Gargul's church will need to rethink how we approach such creatures.
"Or maybe it's just some creepy machine I need to destroy."
DM Carl - Welcome to Ironfaith Island Tuesday December 17th, 2019 3:31:41 PM Rill casts a spell. Inside, nothing seems to have changed. If anyone outside lifts the tent flap, they'll see only a thick fog.
Heather looks around as Rill finishes, oblivious to any changes.
He'd also like to probe the construct's psyche, but the ability states one minute of conversation or observation is required, and that it unnerves the target. Your DM reads that as preventing the spell being used surreptitiously. If you want to go stare at the construct for a full minute with completely white eyes, you'll need to say so explicitly. Consider this the standard for any further uses of this ability. (I'm willing to discuss this further with you over email.)
Terser rather likes this spell. He wonders if everyone's rooms are guarded by a 'monk and construct team', which is the first time anyone's brought the construct up to Heather.
"Construct? What do you mean? There's just two monks out there."
Sense motive, DC 15, Highlight to display spoiler: {She's genuinely unsure of what you're talking about.}
Aexana avoids upsetting anyone else.
Fang and Bralin have a brief conversation about the use of constructs, and Rill's goal to destroy them. Bralin advises patience without ruling out the need to destroy the thing. It might be they can destroy more with greater efficiency if they learn more first.
Jozhur makes his title preferences known. "Jozhur it is, then. Do the rest of you prefer first names? You seem more easy going than I had anticipated."
Rill acknowledges that Gargul expects some initiative and judgement from his followers, not mindless adherence to dogma. He agrees more needs to be known.
Tahni wonders what Heather has to say about all this, but she's as confused as everyone else.
"So, one of the monks out there isn't actually human? I don't know what to say about that. We use this island every year because it's beautiful, and because the monks make excellent guards. They're capable, but easy going. Perfect for the Invitational. This is the first time I've ever heard about one being a construct." She ponders a moment. "I don't know what to say, really. You're Dragons, though. I imagine you'd be given an audience at the monastery. I'd be happy to show you where it is, but it's hard to miss. It's the pretty wooden building on the highest hill over there." She points. Anyone looking outside sees just what she means.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday December 17th, 2019 6:12:00 PM
Intrigued with the constructs Aex quietly follows the conversation. When Heather points at the building outside of course the little Greenmage takes a look... who wouldn't... even Leafy takes a peek outside...
"I'd say it's trouble to make trouble already... we're bound to find trouble soon enough if trouble won't find us first... does that trouble anyone??"
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Tuesday December 17th, 2019 6:51:30 PM
Since the Mage's Private Sanctum prevents the monks from seeing or hearing us, Rill's probing of the construct monk is something that both monks cannot see. He continues to watch the construct monk even as he responds to Heather, and he points to the monk in question.
"Heather, I have cast a spell so those monks can neither see nor hear us right now. I can assure you that particular monk is actually not human, but is a construct. I do not know why, and I don't know if the other monk is aware of this. It concerns me greatly that they seem to be here as guards at your request, and yet they have hidden this fact from you.
"I also have a spell that may simply end that construct monk, but it seems prudent to find about a bit more before I start destroying our guards."
---------------------------- (FYI - The spell Rill mentioned that would end that construct is the Woldian spell Animated Disjunction, and if I cast it on that construct monk it would get a Will save at a -5 penalty or be permanently destroyed.)
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday December 17th, 2019 7:54:55 PM
Fang has no real opinion on the whole construct issue. She's always been the type to flout dogma and the traditional approach and they seem harmless enough, but who knows. She just sits back to see what happens. She'd keep her axe close just in case, but it's always close so that precaution is kind of already fulfilled - half a habit from her years alone, half a habit because it annoyed other priests she disagreed with in general which was always amusing.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Tuesday December 17th, 2019 8:32:49 PM "Just putting this out there, but can't we just invite it in and talk to it? Find out what it knows and why it is here? If we don't like the answers then Rill can blow it to bits"
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Tuesday December 17th, 2019 8:42:53 PM
Bralin considers.
"I would start at the monastery. See what is known."
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Wednesday December 18th, 2019 2:33:11 PM
"Agreed - we should at least find out who at the monastery controls these constructs. They may be alerted at the sudden destruction of one. And if no one there knows, then that brings a whole different set of answers and a whole lot more questions."
If they have time before the ceremonies, then he suggests they waste no time going to the monastery for a chat with the Abbot.
DM Carl - The Construct Dilemma Wednesday December 18th, 2019 4:09:41 PM
Short post incoming; it's been busy today.
The consensus quickly decides that more digging is needed before outright destroying any constructs. Rill attempts to probe the thing's psyche, but only hits a blank wall. He's able to confirm the construct is soulless and not a living thing. He's also pretty sure that it wasn't able to detect his attempt, though.
He describes the situation to Heather, who listens passively until Rill mentions destroying the monk. She recoils.
"Woah. Just, woah, dude. Construct or no, you can't just go attacking the monks. They've been our gracious hosts for years now. For all I know, the constructs have been here all along and have never given any sign that they're dangerous." She takes a breath and composes herself. "I don't doubt you know what you're talking about, Rill, but the Invitational is important to a lot of people. It's not my place to issue ultimatums, so I'll just ask you all to use some discretion."
Tahni recommends just talking to it. It's unlikely it would have blended in if it wasn't capable of conversation, so the group could certainly try.
Bralin and Terser consider the Monastery the best avenue. There is indeed time to visit before tomorrow's events. The sun is just starting to set. Heather has indicated than when you dine tonight is up to you.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday December 18th, 2019 6:49:32 PM
The little greenmage is amused by the course of actions. Assuming the Sea Dragons will want to put their nose in other man's business again she prepares to head out for the monastery.
"Just let's try to be back for dinner... ok? Starving and the food smells delicious..."
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp d20+23=43 ; Wednesday December 18th, 2019 9:40:25 PM
Jozhur eyes Heather Carfully as she speaks. She really isn't aware of the construct? Interesting. (Sense motive: 43)
His curiosity begs him to investigate further.
"Whatever we do, don't just destroy it. We could bring this whole place down upon us."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Thursday December 19th, 2019 4:28:35 AM
Sounds like the party are going to be taking a trip to the Monastery. This construct thing is no doubt posing an issue for Rill, and it feels like this might be the only way to get some understanding as to what is going on.
"Well, let's be quick about it folks. We're going to need a good night's rest to compete tomorrow"
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Thursday December 19th, 2019 1:06:13 PM
Rill agrees with going to the monestary to ask the monks about the construct in their ranks.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Thursday December 19th, 2019 5:59:04 PM
"Is there anything we need to know about visiting the monks at home? Like not walking in bristling with weaponry?"
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday December 19th, 2019 8:09:41 PM
Fang shrugs and goes along with the rest to solve the monk mystery.
RobC -- DM post from Carl Thursday December 19th, 2019 10:55:46 PM
Heather breathes a sigh of relief when it's decided to go talk at the monastery instead of just throwing down. "You're members of the Dragon Consortium. I imagine you can bring your weapons wherever you choose."
The trek to the monastery is pleasant. The Invitational brings folks from all walks. The monied have set up small villages. The rest are scattered throughout the beach and grassy fields of the island. Everywhere they walk, the Sea Dragons are recognized and cheered. It's easy to feel at home with a crowd this welcoming.
Rill detects several more constructs as they walk. The ones he can put eyes on are all monks, but he detects some inside shelters that he's unable to see.
Encampments end abruptly about 50 yards from the monastery. It's a beautiful building your DM will describe tomorrow when he's not on his phone waiting for Star Wars to start. Two friendly looking monks stand guard at the entrance.
"Hey look," says the monk on the right, "it's the Sea Dragons! How can we help you tonight?"
Neither are constructs.
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp Friday December 20th, 2019 12:09:08 PM
Jozhur happily tags along to the monastery, eager to explore this place.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Saturday December 21st, 2019 12:39:54 AM "Hi there. I'm hoping you can help us. Is there someone in charge we might speak to? You see, we have noticed something unusual in the town and hope they might be able to explain it for us" Tahni tries to be as polite as she can and makes sure to smile "I'm sure it's nothing bad. Just something we noticed"
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Saturday December 21st, 2019 1:05:29 AM
Rill will reply to the guards, "We respectfully request to speak to whomever is in charge of your order, good sir."
He uses the ring to privately talk to the Sea Dragons. "I don't really want to cause a problem on the eve of our competition, so I would like to address the construct monk issue with some discretion. Any suggestions about how we handle things if we find that they are intentionally replacing living beings with constructs?
Assuming we are given an audience with someone in authority, Rill will be direct, asking him/her if they are aware that one of the monk guards assigned to our quarters is a construct, and if so, why?
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Saturday December 21st, 2019 1:59:42 AM
Fang raises an eyebrow. What do you mean, like firing guards and using constructs or like making people vanish and making construct duplicates?
DM Carl - The Construct Dilemma Saturday December 21st, 2019 11:56:42 AM
"Speak with who's in charge? Sure, dude." He turns to his fellow monk. "I'll go fetch'im, Ethan. Stay here." He turns back to the party. "Gonna warn ya, he's in the middle of an important meeting with the Chancers' leadership. He'll get to you as soon as he can. Won't take tooooo long."
He vanishes into the building, and time passes.
"HEY, SEA DRAGONS!" calls a deep voice behind you. Turning around, you see a group of 15 shirtless, muscular dwarves. Each has a well-oiled beard reaching down to his navel, and their skin glistens in the failing light. "Care to come join us in a drink while you wait? It may be a while. We'd love the company." He smiles a pleasant, wide-mouthed smile at Tahni. His teeth are perfect.
***
Slow down time, folks. I tend to not linger during it, but I'll check in every few days just in case.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Sunday December 22nd, 2019 10:31:52 AM anyone have a trick to making the website work on a phone? Once I start typing, the submit buttons disappear
Terser looks over the group that's invited them to drink and is reminded of some very harsh tan lines. He doesn't get out of his armor much.
"Drinks are always welcome! What's the local specialty?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 43/43, channel 7/7) Sunday December 22nd, 2019 10:35:35 AM
Header update, since I guess I haven't done it in a couple levels.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Saturday January 4th, 2020 12:15:20 AM
A dwarf with perfect teeth? How much action could this guy have really seen?
Tahni smiles politely back to the group of dwarves and nods along with Terser "Happy to have a few quick drinks however you should know that we are waiting to see one of the monks here. When they're ready to see us we'll have to depart"
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Monday January 6th, 2020 7:07:42 AM
Fang looks to the others trying to figure out if they know these people.
DM Carl - The Construct Dilemma Monday January 6th, 2020 10:59:38 AM
Tahni's hunch proves correct. These dwarves all seem to be adult children of wealth rather than adventurers of any kind. Still, they're nice on the eye, are legitimately friendly, and are well stocked with high quality alcohol. The answer to Terser's question about the specialty seems to be "everything in a giant flagon." That seems like a particularly bad idea, but they prove to be gracious hosts until the monks are able to meet with our heroes.
...and speaking of, let's recap a bit. Perhaps our heroes enjoyed the companionship a bit too much and need to remember why they're here.
The Sea Dragons are on scenic Ironfaith Island for the Annual Chancers' Invitational. It's not their scene, but diviners have portended great woe should they not attend and...do something. No one's sure what that something is. They've met Kozy Tinkwicket, the MC of the event. They were also assigned Heather as their personal assistant for the duration. The island is normally home to an order of monks that serve Domi by testing themselves against native dire fauna, but during the event they serve as security.
Rill had noticed that one of the guards to their opulent temporary home here was a construct. He was able to confirm several of the monks are constructs, in fact. To Heather's relief, they have decided to speak about this before engaging the blasphemous things in open combat.
Speaking of, it looks like the monks are ready. The monk called Ethan comes to find our heroes. "Hey Dragons, the Abbot's ready for ya. He says he's 'terribly sorry to have kept persons of your esteem waiting.'" He makes little air quotes as his voice loses its casual edge. "I'll show you dudes in if you're ready."
Assuming everyone's had their fill of your new dwarven acquaintances, Ethan takes you inside the monastery. You're ushered into a small foyer with short, wooden racks. "Shoes off, dudes," says Ethan. "Sorry, no exceptions unless you wanna be on moppin' duty." Ethan's already barefoot, but waits for everyone to deposit their footwear before ushering you into the common room of the monastery. It's a large room; it most likely takes up a majority of the entire structure. It is dominated by prayer mats all pointed towards a simple altar where a large metal hammer rests on a larger anvil. The periphery of the room is used for martial training. There are a few weapon racks with wooden weapons, but mostly seem to be rings for boxing or wrestling. In the center of the room is a large circle, almost certainly also used for wrestling.
An old gnome rests on his knees on a prayer mat. He finishes his prayers quickly as you enter, then stands to greet you. He wears only a simple loin cloth, exposing an exceptionally fit physique.
Rill only, Highlight to display spoiler: {This gnome is an outsider.}
He does not smile as you approach, only bowing slightly. "Welcome to our home, Dragons. I apologize for keeping you waiting. I assure you it was not avoidable." His demeanor is not friendly, but not unfriendly either. He just...is.
"Now, how may I serve?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 d20+15=28 ; d20+33=36 ; Monday January 6th, 2020 12:36:47 PM
Rill removes his shoes as he addresses Ethan, "Thank you for your help Ethan."
Rill will bow low to the gnome as a prominent local leader. Clearly, he is more than he seems. Using the Dragon rings, he shares silently with the others, "Interesting. This gnome is not who he seems - he not a construct nor is he undead, but he is an outsider.
"Greetings honorable Abbot. There is certainly no need for an apology. We wanted to first thank you for providing an honor guard to the tent where we are staying. That is a gracious gesture on your part, and we are honored by your concern for our safety and security.
"But we came here to address a matter that is of concern to me, so let me get to the point. As you may have guessed, I am an adherent of Gargul, the guardian of souls in the Wold. As you may also be aware, Soulseekers of Gargul are taught that constructs are soulless creatures and are an affront to my God. One of our monk guards is not a living creature, but is a construct of some sort. Can you help me understand why this is?
"Also, as you are a person of importance here I respect your authority. Since our security is in your hands, can you help us understand more about your order? I am also interested to learn more about you. Is there another name or honorific we should use than simply Abbot? Did you start this order here, and are you from this place?"
Diplomacy 28 Sense Motive 36
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday January 6th, 2020 4:47:53 PM
Aex hesitates to removing her boots and walk in barefoot... ultimately she takes'm off showing neatly purple pink painted toenails... she smiles and shrugs her shoulders when Leafy kinda snorts...
"At least I don't dig my toes in the dirt love... "
Once inside Aex is happy to see the Abbot's a Gnome too. Finally someone she can speak to without looking up. Taking a light bow she approaches the Abbot and listens to what he has to say when questions are asked.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Monday January 6th, 2020 7:55:41 PM
Bralin raises an eyebrow at Aex's painted toenails, but takes very great care to say absolutely nothing about them.
The dwarf's own bare feet are large, hairy, and dirty, with toenails...well, they've not been pedicured in, um, ever.
Heedless of this, Bralin takes position on Rill's right, and listens patiently.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+31=50 ; Monday January 6th, 2020 9:34:51 PM
Tahni takes a noticable side step away from Bralin as his boots come off. "Hmm.. going to have to Prestidigitation his feet clean while he sleeps tonight"
She has no issue removing her own boots. Enjoying her Overland Flight spells for most of the day means her feet seldom have a chance to get too dirty.
Like Rill, Tahni bows to the gnome. She isn't terribly surprised that Rill identifies him as an outsider "As I am led to believe, senior monks are able to attain such a status in the universe. Why, Garret of the Iron Dragons achieved that level of 'oneness' but only after lots of careful study, meditation and self-control I imagine"
She looks about to see whether there are any other monks about - watching the party, praying, sparring, etc - and whether they might be overheard.
----------------- Perception: 50 + Arcane Sight + Darkvision + See Invisibility Spellcraft to ID any magic auras: 43 (33+Take10)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 43/43, channel 7/7) Tuesday January 7th, 2020 2:55:31 AM
Tahni and Terser are once again of the same mind - he was going to ask her to do a quick cleanup of his feet as he can't quite recall the last time they got more than a cursory rinse, and he certainly doesn't walk around without shoes very often.
Maybe he'll ask Heather about where he can get a pedicure when they get back to the tent. It certainly won't make his boots less comfortable.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday January 7th, 2020 7:34:10 AM
Without shoes Fang's dainty little toe claws click with every step distractedly. She only half pays attention to the conversation, looking about the room curiously. A lot of her fellow priests were of the mind she should have never become a priest of Alemi and she should have joined the Domi church. Fine fellows she agrees with on a lot of thing, but she's always been determined to be a healer as much as a fighter.
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp Tuesday January 7th, 2020 11:39:17 AM
Jozhur takes hisboots of, but he would hate to lose them prior to the contests. He shoves his footwear in his backpack before continuing. And what is that smell...he gives Bralin a few feet of space as they speak with the abbot.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday January 7th, 2020 6:34:48 PM
Leafy puts his nose in the air not only at Aex's comment but perhaps too at the distinct smell of very ripe cheese that now rules the place...
DM Ken: Somethings afoot. Tuesday January 7th, 2020 8:54:29 PM
If the Abbot had any issue with ugly feet, or a preference towards painted toenails, he gives no sign. As Rill begins explaining why they have come to see him, he gives a look of puzzlement. Tahni notices that as the meeting begins, the other monks politely see themselves out of the room. Apparently, they feel as if their master requires no protection, or perhaps at least, not from heroes like the Sea Dragons.
"I'll answer the easiest questions first. Abbot, is fine. Some call me Master. Some call me runt. Anything is fine, as long as there is friendliness or respect, or some measure of both, in the title.
Our Order is one that prizes both faith and bravery, exalts both vitality and wisdom. Long we have taken pilgrimage to these islands to test ourselves against the creatures that come to this place. There have been many of these Chancers Invitationals, but this time they requested to use "our" island. We told them we claim no ownership here, nor on any of the Dragon Isles, but they insisted on hiring us as both protection for the crowds and against the elements of nature here.
Seeing our Orders love of battles, you can rest assured we were excited to observe. We asked to field a team, but were forbidden from doing so."
He takes a deep breath, allowing for questions, then continues.
"With that matter explained, lets turn to the other issues at hand. I understand your predicament very much, Master Rill. I understand the tenets of your subset of Garguls church. However, I hold no power over these constructs, nor was I aware of their presence. There are many acolytes of the church here, many I have never met."
The gnome looks down at the mat below his feet, in quiet contemplation for several long and uncomfortable moments. Just when you think he's fallen asleep standing up, he moves, twitching his fingers and toes, as if he was making sure everything still worked properly.
"I thank you for your information."
Several moments pass, before the monk blinks, and laughs to himself.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+12=25 ; Tuesday January 7th, 2020 9:23:23 PM
Tahni is a little unsettled by the monk's behavior "Is there something wrong with this guy?"
"Master Abbot. Now that you are aware of these constructs, and that they are presenting themselves as monks, is there anything you plan to do about them? If they are not true representatives of your church or order, I'm sure it would be no bother to help remove some of them for you"
Something just isn't right here. There are a few spells she'd like to cast but doesn't want to insult him if he's just a senile old man.
"Perhaps you could tell us when they arrived? If we know that we may be able to determine who brought them here, and have a chat with them"
----------- Sense Motive: 25 Spellcraft check: 43 (33+Take10). She's looking to see what auras might be surrounding the monk, specifically any enchantment spells.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 43/43, channel 7/7) Wednesday January 8th, 2020 12:06:06 AM "Perhaps there is merit in pointing out all of those that are constructs and having their partner monks observe them for a time."
With what he's observed, can Terser somewhat assess the power of an individual construct, and if the monk paired with it could take it on in a fight, should it come to that?
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 d20+33=42 ; Wednesday January 8th, 2020 1:00:17 AM
Rill is tempted to use Probe Psyche on the gnome, but is not sure it would gain us much more than enmity from the man.
"My good Abbot, if indeed you have only just found out that many those pretending to be your adherents here are neither alive nor dead, but are instead soulless constructs, will you help us root out and destroy these pretenders? Would you object to such actions on our part?"
Rill is puzzled that his previous Sense Motive efforts told him nothing, but he continues to study the man.
Sense Motive 42
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp Wednesday January 8th, 2020 8:25:20 AM
Jozhur looks at the Abbot quizzically, this fellow is Abit strange. But he holds his tongue. The constructs haven't bothered them...yet. Jozhur is a bit concerned the HMIC didn't know about them.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday January 8th, 2020 6:18:44 PM
Aex lifts an eyebrow at the Abbot... either this guy has smoked something or his cook put some herbs in his afternoon cake... but the little greenmage holds her tongue and waits to see how this unfolds...
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Wednesday January 8th, 2020 6:29:07 PM
Bralin casts about, glancing at the faces of his comrades to ascertain if they are as confused as he.
He is somewhat relieved that they are.
Rill's request to destroy the constructs will surely generate some reaction. Bralin waits to see what it will be.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday January 8th, 2020 9:27:35 PM
Fang tries to start paying attention again since everyone is acting alarmed now, but it takes her a little time to catch up.
Those trying to sense the motives of the abbot find themselves certain that there's no deception here. He truly had no idea that constructs disguised as acolytes had appeared. They are also quite certain that he truly, honestly, does not seem to care.
The gnome takes a moment studying your faces, then answers more questions. He starts with Terser.
"Perhaps, good Dragon, you are correct. There is never harm in knowing, unless its something you aren't meant to know. I don't think that is the case in this case, so feel free to learn as much as you would like!"
To Rill and Tahni, he is a bit more stern.
"Absolutely not. They've done no harm, and for all we know there could be an order of Domi's monks out there somewhere, all of whom are golems or constructs. Even though that does seem rather unlikely...Domi asked for available hands to be present for the tournament. Many of his monks have traveled from very far away. It's a shame we weren't allowed to compete!"
He loses himself for several more long moments of thought, then shakes his head.
"The answer is no. Unless you are attacked, or observe others being attacked by these constructs, you are not to test yourselves against them. Domi has given our order very, very clear instructions. This tournament is to proceed, unhindered, until its completion." Jumping to his feet, he wags his finger at Fang, who is pretty certain she did nothing wrong at all. "He was very clear with me on that..and I'll not allow any actions that might upset the flow of things."
Rill and Tahni and any others trying to get a sense of the gnome sense that he is telling the truth, and not trying to obfuscate any facts or information. As he calms himself down, he sits again on his knees.
"You are all free to investigate, but may do no harm. It might be better if you just forget the whole affair of constructs for now and just consider them monks of Domi, and naught else."
He thinks for a moment then calmly asks. "Is there anything else?"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Thursday January 9th, 2020 12:51:42 AM "I don't think we're going to get much more from him" Tahni messages the others via the rings "What time is the first contest? Do we have enough time to find out more about these constructs or should we turn in?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 43/43, channel 7/7) Thursday January 9th, 2020 11:34:42 AM Do we have some way of easily identifying them now? I'm pretty sure I would have gone the whole tournament not knowing if Rill hadn't pointed it out.
We would do well to take a count of how many there are right now, and then go about checking with the living monks if they know, how they feel about partnering with constructs, and so on.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Thursday January 9th, 2020 5:45:29 PM "Thank you, my good Abbot. You have given us much to think on. I cannot imagine any reason that the Sea Dragons would find themselves in opposition to Domi. As I said before, we are most grateful that your order is here to vouch for our safety and security. However, as you are no doubt aware, a construct is a creation under the direct control of their creator. That may give you pause when you consider that your order is providing security using creatures that are likely under the control of someone or something else.
"If we may be of service to you while we are here, please do not hesitate to ask."
With sidelong looks at Terser and Bralin he concludes, "Now, let's get these dwarves back into their shoes."
He says via the rings, "Yeah, we have a problem here. Constructs are typically not autonomous beings. They are creations under the authority and control of others. So the wholescale and covert replacement of humanoids with constructs is actually a much bigger concern than just a soulseekers' prejudice against such creations. Who is creating such things? How far does this go? Are there rulers in the Wold that have been replaced with such constructs?"
Rill will leave with the others if this gnome has nothing more to say about this.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday January 9th, 2020 6:25:52 PM
Aex nods at Rill's conclusion of this matter - especially the bit about dwarves and their boots - and it eager to get back to the inn. Perhaps there's some desert still...
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday January 9th, 2020 7:26:19 PM
Fang is skeptical of Rill's fears but not enough to argue. It's weird to be certain, but they just visited fairy land and fought with giants against living stone trees. Weird things are just to be expected and when/if they prove dangerous they can already identify the constructs and eliminate them.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Thursday January 9th, 2020 7:54:05 PM
"Aye, for they are such fine shoes," Bralin agrees, choosing to miss the point entirely.
Tis a long leap from constructs on this island to a Woldian conspiracy, Bralin replies. Yet, it would be advantageous to know how many monks on this island are constructs, and if they all came from the same creator.
The dwarf dutifully puts on his footgear, and accompanies his comrades back to their house.
DM Ken: Somethings afoot. Thursday January 9th, 2020 10:41:09 PM
The monk seems to think about what Rill has to say.
"I wonder then, what the will of the creator is? Are they all made by the same person? I wonder what the Chancers are serving for dinner tonight."
For awhile, the gnome watches you all gather your things. Before you leave, he tosses out a final bit of conversation.
"I wouldn't let yourselves become too distracted here, honorable Dragons. You are here because you need to be, and I think that you are here is far more important than what you do, while you are here. Make sure you attend the Ceremony of Odds tonight, as well as the dinner the Chancers are putting on. You fine folks should mingle a little before things start in earnest tomorrow."
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 43/43, channel 7/7) Thursday January 9th, 2020 10:49:57 PM
Dessert sounds like a great idea. And they'll be so active in the coming days that they can probably afford to carbo load.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Friday January 10th, 2020 4:48:08 AM "Ceremony of Odds it is then"
Tahni leaves with the others and gives some consideration to the name of the Ceremony. Probably going to have the odds declared, people placing bets, money changing hands and what not. It will likely be a good way to size up the competition.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Friday January 10th, 2020 11:47:29 AM
Once back at the tent, Rill will sense to see if one of our guards still registers as a construct.
Then he will cast Commune to find out what he can about what lies ahead.
(I'll send out an email asking for questions to ask.)
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp Friday January 10th, 2020 12:37:15 PM
Jozhur lets the others know he is a bit unsettled by the presence of the constructs, especially given the knowledge the Abbot didn't even have knowledge of their presence. But, there is nothing that can be done about them now without causing quite the scene.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Friday January 10th, 2020 7:06:59 PM
Bralin considers the abbot's words as he walks back to the house.
"Mayhap the abbot is correct. Mayhap our mere presence at these games is of import. Not having great magical powers to gauge these constructs, I believe I shall go out and 'mingle a little'."
The dwarf considers.
"Tis likely best to begin mingling at a tavern, I suspect."
The dwarf heads out into the gathering to see what he can get himself into.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Friday January 10th, 2020 7:12:08 PM
Fang goes with Bralin - a little mingling sounds nice about now and she's kind of useless solving the great construct mystery.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 43/43, channel 7/7) Saturday January 11th, 2020 12:45:32 PM
While out at dinner, Terser will ask around about whether some of the other guests have been to these tournaments before and what their impressions of them were.
He will make sure not to drink so much that he forgets to head to the Ceremony though.
DM Ken: Somethings afoot. Saturday January 11th, 2020 1:55:03 PM
The Sea Dragons finds themselves exploring various parts and areas of the island. As they take their searches and time for spells, after a bit they all find themselves back in their room, readying themselves to make their way to the ceremony of odds.
Here, Rill casts his commune spell.
(Please let me know what you want to know. I havent advanced yet because I was waiting on the details of the spell.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Sunday January 12th, 2020 2:30:52 AM
Tahni sticks by Rill as he casts the Commune spell. She's hopeful the results will better prepare them for what's to come.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Sunday January 12th, 2020 7:01:18 PM
For now there isn't much Aex can do to help. She'll have to wait to see how things will unfold and what her companions will learn.
So she makes it an early night. Leafy never sleeps so she's confident no constructs will come to tickle her pink painted toes.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Sunday January 12th, 2020 11:54:24 PM
Rill will find a quiet place to cast Commune. Rill will share the answers to the spell with his friends. He asks,
1 - Do the construct monks on this island pose a threat to us if we do not attack them? 2 - Do the construct monks on this island pose a threat to the Wold? 3 - Are the constructs monks on this island under the control of a single entity? 4 - Can we trust Heather? 5 - Can we trust the Abbot? 6 - Will all of our organized challenges take place in the arena here? 7 - Will we face constructs as part of these challenges? 8 - Will we face outsiders part of these challenges? 9 - Does attending the Ceremony of Odds pose a significant threat to us? 10 - Does participating in the challenges pose a significant threat to us? 11 - Is someone on the island already planning to kill one or more of the Sea Dragons? 12 - If yes, is that person one of the Sapphire Seven? 13 - Do the Sapphire Seven pose a significant threat to our safety? 14 - Are the Sapphire Seven planning to cheat in the challenges? 15 - If there is a larger threat than the challenges, can the Sea Dragons rely on the Sapphire Seven for help? 16 - Is it Gargul’s will that the construct monks be destoryed? 17 - Will the Lionfish remain safe while we compete? 18 - Can Bralin's feet be adequately cleaned?
(Note, we only get 17 questions. Question 18 will only be asked if Question 12 is not necessary.)
Afterward, Rill will use the Status function of the rings to monitor the health as well being of the Sea Dragons.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Monday January 13th, 2020 5:16:00 PM
For the DM, I subtracted the 500 gp in incense the Commune spell costs. The language of the spell says:
You contact your deity–or agents thereof–and ask questions that can be answered by a simple yes or no. (A cleric of no particular deity contacts a philosophically allied deity.) You are allowed one such question per caster level. The answers given are correct within the limits of the entity’s knowledge. “Unclear” is a legitimate answer, because powerful beings of the Outer Planes are not necessarily omniscient. In cases where a one-word answer would be misleading or contrary to the deity’s interests, a short phrase (five words or less) may be given as an answer instead.
The spell, at best, provides information to aid character decisions. The entities contacted structure their answers to further their own purposes. If you lag, discuss the answers, or go off to do anything else, the spell ends.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) d20+21=30 ; Monday January 13th, 2020 6:28:00 PM
Bralin walks with Fang into the heart of the festivities, looking for a place where dwarves are doing some drinking.
Finding one, he'll buy the place a round, regale the group with tales of the Dragon's exploits, and call for other tales to be told, especially of this contest - who's in it, who's won it, etc, etc.
Diplomacy 30 interacting with other dwarves.
DM Ken: Communion Monday January 13th, 2020 7:10:56 PM
Rill asks Gargul his question, and soon after, begins to receive his answers.
1 - Do the construct monks on this island pose a threat to us if we do not attack them?
No.
2 - Do the construct monks on this island pose a threat to the Wold?
No.
3 - Are the constructs monks on this island under the control of a single entity?
Yes.
4 - Can we trust Heather?
Yes.
5 - Can we trust the Abbot?
Yes.
6 - Will all of our organized challenges take place in the arena here?
Unclear.
7 - Will we face constructs as part of these challenges?
Yes.
8 - Will we face outsiders part of these challenges?
Yes.
9 - Does attending the Ceremony of Odds pose a significant threat to us?
No.
10 - Does participating in the challenges pose a significant threat to us?
No.
11 - Is someone on the island already planning to kill one or more of the Sea Dragons?
Unclear.
13 - Do the Sapphire Seven pose a significant threat to our safety?
No.
14 - Are the Sapphire Seven planning to cheat in the challenges?
No.
15 - If there is a larger threat than the challenges, can the Sea Dragons rely on the Sapphire Seven for help?
Unclear.
16 - Is it Gargul’s will that the construct monks be destoryed?
Yes.
17 - Will the Lionfish remain safe while we compete?
Yes.
18 - Can Bralin's feet be adequately cleaned?
The skies darken and there is a crack of thunder and lightning. Two large blocks of soap appear, coarse like sandpaper and dense like stone. Next to them is a pair of adamantine nail clippers. Beside these are a note.
"Thanks for fielding this one Sea Dragons. Its going to be pretty dicey for you guys, but not for the reasons you might think. Boss definitely is going to want those constructs gone, but not nearly as much as the entire pantheon is going to want you guys to see this tournament all the way through."
-G."
--
Outside, Fang Bralin and Terser find themselves politely interrupted by a shaven monk. He doesn't LOOK like a construct, but then, none of them did in the first place. He politely lets Bralin finish his story, which goes over smashingly well, before interrupting.
"Excuse me, Dragons. Its nearly time for the Ceremony of Odds. Please return to your rooms and gather your companions. The whole teams presence is requested."
He bows, and seems to be waiting for some sort of confirmation.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday January 13th, 2020 7:29:50 PM
Assumingly someone will wake up Aex from her beauty sleep so she'll join the rest for the gathering...
Finally... the little Gnome is curious about what is to come..
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Monday January 13th, 2020 7:41:03 PM
Fang shrugs and heads out to gather the others. She wakes up Aexana by yelling at her, then if that doesn't work a rough shake. She's not good at subtle or gentle.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 43/43, channel 7/7) Monday January 13th, 2020 9:55:24 PM
Terser will run back to the group, hoping to implore upon Tahni for a quick cleaning spell. On the way, he cleans the alcohol from his system with a quick restorative spell. It wouldn't do to be too inebriated before going to the official function. Plus, that will mean he can enjoy a few more drinks during and after.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Tuesday January 14th, 2020 11:37:53 AM
Rill picks up the Holy Nail Clippers and the soap. When Bralin returns he will give them to the dwarf, letting him know that Gargul sent them for his feet.
With Fang's return, Rill will use the rings to make sure anyone not there is aware, "It is time. We are summoned to the Ceremony of Odds, whatever that is."
Once everyone is back he will share what he learned from his Commune spell. He uses the Prestidigitation spell in his circlet to make himself presentable, and uses the Rod of Splendor to change his clothing to an all white version of "magically created clothing of the finest fabrics,... furs and jewels."
As we gather our things, Rill will use the button Heather left to summon her so she can guide us to where we need to go.
Tahni (Mark Bradley substitute posting for Rob) Tuesday January 14th, 2020 11:39:59 AM
Tahni responds to Terser's request, making sure he'd tidied up and presentable, offering the same. Or at least she does her best with what she has to work with. She gathers her things and prepares to go.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday January 14th, 2020 6:49:20 PM
Aex nearly falls out of her bed when Fang wakes her...
"WUT... WHO... WHERE... YOU! YOU!!... "
Aex races down after Fang in a desperate attempt to catch her... all in vain though for Aex won't run as fast...
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Tuesday January 14th, 2020 6:59:14 PM
Bralin nods to the monk, and replies "Of course." He then sends out a mental update to his comrades.
Fang is already moving, and Bralin follows.
--
Gargul's gift of nail clippers and soap leave the dwarf completely flummoxed. "GARGUL sent these? Truly?" Not one to offend gods, the dwarf takes the items, retreats to a back room, and performs some apparently necessary maintenance on his toes.
He then puts on the same Black Lion outfit from their entrance to the harbor, and joins his comrades.
DM Ken: Communion Tuesday January 14th, 2020 7:44:04 PM
Heathers vision appears, as before. With a smirk, she puts her hands on her hips. She practically purrs as she teases her summoners.
"Miss me already, Dragons?"
She waits until you are all ready, then leads you out the door. The path she takes leads you down a stoneway that winds through the many suites of the assembled teams.
“We have begun calling this area “The Village.” Since you all arrived, it’s been quite lively. Right now though, everyone is by the water, drinking and feasting before the odds are revealed.”,
After about ten minutes or so of walking, the path leads to sandy stone steps, which in turn leads back to the white-sand beach. Bonfires and tents are everywhere, as well as tables and stalls full of food and drink of every kind.
There is one very large table, set upon a raised platform, that you are informed is reserved only for the top competitors. There’s a block of seats left open, with cards labeling them as “Reserved for Sea Dragons.” Other placards are arranged around the table, giving away team names, but little else.
A quick murmur passes through the crowd, and eventually to the raised table itself and those seated there. Most people stop their conversations, and look your direction. Heathers image smiles, then waves goodbye and vanishes.
What do you do?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Tuesday January 14th, 2020 9:27:32 PM
Tahni has no intention of giving any grand speeches. She quietly take a seat at the table and looks about for signs of any other competitors.
"Psst! Rill. Any idea if any of these folk are constructs? Is it just those monks or are there some posing as citizens as well?" she relays over the rings.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 43/43, channel 7/7) Tuesday January 14th, 2020 9:30:42 PM
Terser doesn't want to be the focus of everyone so much. He grabs a horn of mead and lifts it.
"A toast! To our hosts, and the competition!"
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday January 15th, 2020 1:21:57 AM
Fang tries to read as many as the cards as she can while they pass, curious as to their competitors and their names.
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp Wednesday January 15th, 2020 10:13:13 AM
Jozhur takes everything in, scanning the tables for familiar faces. When Terser toasts the hosts, he scrambles to find a drink to partake.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 d20+38=47 ; d20+33=44 ; Wednesday January 15th, 2020 2:59:26 PM
Rill will respond to the image of Heather when she appears, smiling as he chides her, "You know, if you really cared, you would be here in person." He follows with the others and nods to her image as she waves goodbye.
Rill looks at the others seated on the raised platform. He makes a point of stopping to make a respectful nod and acknowledgement to the Saphire Seven, and will quietly say to the Half-Orc Crall, "I would like a chance to speak with you before the challenges if I may." Depending on the seating arrangements, he will sit by the man if he can.
As he raises his cup to Terser's toast, Tahni's silent reminder causes Rill to use his magical abilities to get an idea about the crowd around them. He uses his Deathwatch ability from his circlet, and his class abilities to Sense Outsiders and Constructs.
He also looks for anything unusual or concerning. Perception 47 Sense Motive 44
---------------------------- Deathwatch - Range 30'. You instantly know whether each creature within the area is dead, fragile (alive and wounded, with 3 or fewer hit points left), fighting off death (alive with 4 or more hit points), healthy, undead, or neither alive nor dead (such as a construct). Deathwatch sees through any spell or ability that allows creatures to feign death.
Sense Outsider - Sense direction and distance to any outsider, fey, demon, devil, or elemental within 1,080 ft., even through solid objects.
Sense Construct - Sense direction and distance to any any construct, animated object, or golem within 1,080 ft., even through solid objects.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Wednesday January 15th, 2020 6:17:38 PM
Bralin ascends the platform with his comrades, making eye contact with the other people and supplying a quick nod of greeting.
As Terser makes his toast, the dwarf grabs his own flagon and raises it high. "Hear, Hear," he replies.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday January 15th, 2020 7:04:25 PM
Aex walks towards the designated seats and ... decides she'd better shut up... she has a tendency to offend people with her sarcasm so perhaps today is not the day...
Instead she just says : "Howjoedoin..."
The Main Course
DM Ken: Dinner Time! Wednesday January 15th, 2020 8:31:58 PM
Tahni and Fang observe the competitors and assembled warriors. Other than the Sapphire Seven, none of them are particularly familiar all at first. Tahni notes the names of the teams on the placards. As the scan the groups, both stop for a long moment on the Fangs of the Beast. Among them is a ratkin, who quite strikingly resembles Fang. The identical image of her, in fact.
(Thanks to Rills high perception, I'll post some details of each team here as well.)
I, Construct.: This team consists of five very obvious constructs, and a dwarven woman. She sits with an amused look on her face, her attention very much captured by Terser.
Fangs of the Beast: This team consists entirely of beastkin. Two cats, a bear, a dog, and a ratkin are present. The ratkin looks identical to fang.
Sapphire Seven: You have met this group. They see you all and mumble a bit to themselves, but Crall nods politely at Rills request.
Talons of Aisildur: This group seems to be the least fantastic of the assembled teams. They sit quietly, some chatting, some watching the others.
The Last Whisper: This group of seats is empty.
Dragonsound: This group seems more like a band than a team of powerful fighters. Every single one of them is playing an instrument or singing along with their friends. One of them seems to favor a draconic parent, as several parts of him are covered in bright blue scales.
The One Percent: This group is covered in rich clothing, flashing fancy gear, and covered from head to toe in trinkets, baubles, and flashy gold.
Sea Dragons: Your seats, of course.
While there are nearly 30 teams in the competition, only the top eight seeded teams, based on reputation and feats of heroism, are invited to the dinner on the beach. Many other teams mill about and mingle further up the stone path near the Village.
Terser toasts to a host, but the closest thing resembling a host at this point is a pair of the monks. They smile nervously and give an awkward wave. Terser hears a dwarven woman laugh at his moment, before she stifles the chuckle.
Jozhur recognizes the entirety of the Sapphire Seven. Urlryn winks when they make eye contact, but none of the others seem to linger on him more than anyone else.
Aexana and Bralin don't put themselves out there too much. Just a "Here here!" and a "Howyadoin?".
When detecting for outsiders, Rill detects none. When detecting for constructs, his radar pings the usual random blips, assumed to be monks going about various duties, and the five companions of the dwarf on the "I, construct" team.
After the dragons sit, more rounds of food and drink are brought.
(Your DM Advises that one of you might keep a journal on the teams and individuals you encounter. It might help you crack the best strategy for dealing with some of the potential rivals you will meet here.)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 43/43, channel 7/7) Wednesday January 15th, 2020 10:59:11 PM
Terser pulls Sam's old journal out of his pack where it's say un-added to in years. He offers it to someone at the table with much nicer penmanship than his own.
After draining his first drink, he grabs another, and grabs his flask to add something extra, throwing a wink at the dwarven woman as he does so, as if to say, care for somethin a little stronger?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Thursday January 16th, 2020 4:24:16 AM "Perhaps the ale might loosen some tongues around here and give some clue as to what to expect from these teams. No doubt they have heard of us so we are at a disadvantage"
Tahni looks over the assembled teams with her Arcane Sight. She tries to determine any magical auras or spells that might be in effect, as well as to try and identify any magical items she can see.
---------------- Spellcraft to ID things: 43 (33+Take10) Knowl checks to ID the constructs: 35 (25+Take10)
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday January 16th, 2020 8:24:43 AM
Fang looks with mild curiosity at the beastkin team. Another white furred heavily scared ratfolk? Other colors are far more common and she vaguely wonders if they're from a tribe that shares some distant ancestor to her own.
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp d20+28=46 ; Thursday January 16th, 2020 11:07:14 AM
Jozhur briefly smiles at Urlryn before the empty table catches his attention. "The Last Whisper", such a foreboding name. He does his best to look over the table and chairs in a non obvious way. (perception: 46)
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 d20+38=55 ; Thursday January 16th, 2020 5:45:14 PM
Rill looks around, frowning a bit at the fact that the competitors had been placed on a raised platform like we are a thing to show off for someone else's benefit. If we were not told we needed to be here by the Gods themselves, he'd be tempted to simply return to the Lionfish and sail away without another word.
He watches the crowd and the servers carefully, looking to see who is directing the servers or providing some watchful eye over this spectacle of dining competitors. Is there someone that is watching us, evaluating us and weighing out abilities and value? (Perception 55)
Rill silently shares his observations about the constructs and all the other groups and adds "That note from Gimp suggested that the competitive challenges are the least of our worries, and that something else is gong to make our time here difficult and dicey. Let's all try to reach out to the others here to build relationships where we can, because I think we may need them later.
Let's show them how the Sea Dragons can be a unifying force even among competitors.
To that end, Rill tries to strike up a conversation with the nearest group.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) d20+17=28 ; d20+14=33 ; d20+6=13 ; Thursday January 16th, 2020 6:30:14 PM
Bralin had drained one cup, and was looking for another, when Rill comments that the group should reach out.
If The Last Whisper consists of undead, I elect you to be the peacemaker he responds.
Nevertheless, the dwarf rises and approaches any team that has a dwarf, or the Talons of Aisildur if none do. He extends a hand. "Well met, I am Bralin Stoneminder. This is our first time at this event. Could you tell me what to expect at this Ceremony of Odds?"
[Diplomacy 28, 32 if dwarf] [Perception 33 to take note of interesting details] [Sense Motive 13]
Terser finds his wink answered by a laugh. The dwarven woman motions to him, and gently places a keg from her pack on the table. Its made of old oak, and has dwarven runes on the iron bandings. Clearly, this isn't meant for humans or halflings.
Tahni takes a moment to look over some of the teams. As with detect magic, Arcane Sight is able to determine magical auras and determine the schools of magic they are tied to, but not necessarily the function. That requires a thorough examination, and in her DMs opinion, hands on the object.
Most of the auras are what one would expect. Enchantment auras from armor and weapons, some abjurative trinkets, and a few spells are in effect here and there. Most are protections, such as anti-scrying, false life, and contingencies.
The Golems too, are a bit beyond her. It isn't that they look too complex, but rather they seem to be unlike anything she's ever read or heard about. Her high aptitude for engineering does give her some ideas as to some of the functions of the golems though, based on parts configurations.
Golem 1 seems to serve as a sort of elemental discharge type. Metal plates tied to boilers and reservoirs seem to hint that on impact, energy is projected around it in some fashion. It projects heavy auras of evocation and conjuration. Golem 2 seems to serve as a defensive unit with heavy protection and multiple redundancies. It projects trace auras of abjuration. Golem 3 seems constructed mostly from an intact clockwork golem, but is also fixed with heavy drills. Golem 4 seems to be mostly incomplete. It has many blank areas on its outer shell where it looks like different sorts of items can be slotted in. Golem 5 seems nearly human. It has a waxy skin, is in normal steel plate armor, but its rigid movements set it apart. It gives off a strong aura of conjuration and necromancy.
Fang continues to examine the other white ratkin. The scars are present, but in different places. The eyes are in the same place, as is major patterns and tufts of fur. Its not that she's a perfect clone, but more like an identical twin. The other ratkin, suddenly aware of the scrutiny, excuses herself from her beastkin allies, and begins to quickly pick her way through the crowd, seemingly intent on leaving.
Jozhur spends a moment or two examining the area where Last Whisper SHOULD be. He doesn't see anything odd. More like this group has decided they had no intention of joining the party, or they are running very late. He feels a poke on his shoulder, and is startled to find Urlryn there next to him.
"It seems they think the celebration isn't worth their time. For what its worth, I'm glad the dragons showed." Her voice is just above the noise of the table, clearly for his ears only. She's not smiling, not really, but she seems amused to have caught the drop on Jozhur.
Rill doesn't like the spectacle, but really, that's almost all the Chancers Guild is. He lets the others know his preference is they play nice, and gather information for now. He strikes up a conversation with the nearest team, "The One Percent." The closest person is a lean youth, barely having reached adulthood, if at all. His clothes are well kept, only a meager step below Rills own splendid display. When he notices Rill seeking to talk, he smiles happily.
"Hello Sea Dragon! I'm Kale! It's a pleasure!"
The small talk is not too formal, and its very clear that Kale thinks highly of himself and his team. They are a team fielded by the Chancers themselves, and he isn't shy about the fact that the guild outfitted them with the best gear money can buy. "So what about our little tournament inspired the Dragon Consortium to finally field a team? We've been trying for years to get them out here. Is the Wold finally safe enough that someones got some time off?" He snaps his fingers and grins. "Now that the Gods of Testing are disbanded, you've got the time, right?"
Bralin has a choice to make. There are two dwarves present, one with the Talons, and one that seems to be engaging with Terser. He finds his way to the Talons of Aisildur, since they seem about as nervous as anyone else.
The dwarf there, is both thick in stature and well muscled. He's not wearing armor, but he does keep a couple of waraxes in hands reach. He sticks out a strong hand to shake Bralins.
Bralin: Strength check DC 18. You are now engaged in the classic dwarven game of "Who has the stronger handshake."
While not letting go, he happily answers Bralins greeting.
"Well met, I'm Gort Stonecaller! Its our first time too! Given us a bit of a big head, to be honest, but we are honored to share a table of the top eight seeds with the Sea Dragons!"
Bralins hand flops up and down in the shake.
"Usually, most first year teams get tossed into the preliminary rounds, but we qualified based on strength of deed they tell us. We saved a Chancer fancy-do's whole town from a tribe of ogre-mages, and it got us our ticket in!"
Shake shake shake.
"The Ceremony of Odds is a Chancer thing. Those lads love their bettin', and here in a bit they'll reveal the betting odds for teams getting the high score in the Gauntlet tomorrow. Are you going to be runnin' it?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 43/43, channel 7/7) Thursday January 16th, 2020 11:21:18 PM
Terser is firstly impressed by the size of the cask that this woman casually carries around. Secondly he is impressed by the craftsmanship and care that went into its making.
Good evenin! It seems we share a taste for the finer spirits. Though I bet I haven't had a true taste of home since I left the Scab. I'm Terser
He extends his forearm in greeting, and grabs a pair of shot glasses off the table in the other.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Friday January 17th, 2020 4:12:46 PM
Rill will the foppish young man named after an unpleasant vegetable. He makes small talk with him for a bit, introducing himself and then asking about Kale's companions.
Then he will will approach Dragonsound, noting the person that has a dragon lineage, "Greetings. It is not often we are privileged to meet someone descended to the Wold's most exalted beings. I am Rillett Savenport from Bonetown."
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) d20+7=13 ; Friday January 17th, 2020 5:00:00 PM
[Str check 13]
Bralin should have been expecting it, but he'd been shaking hands with so many non-dwarves lately that Gort's crushing grip comes as a surprise.
Before he realizes what is happening, Gort has his hand twisted, and there's very little he can do.
Gort knows what's happening. But, By The Stone, no one else will.
Bralin stands there, and takes it. "The Gauntlet is the three person trial, yes? Aye, we have submitted two teams for the contest, including myself."
Trying to readjust his grip, he seeks to distract Gort for a moment. "Would you introduce your companions?"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Friday January 17th, 2020 7:23:06 PM
Tahni isn't one for socializing too much, however, this is more about recon than it is about making friends. She takes a big sip of ale and makes her way over to the Dragonsound table.
"Hi! Mind if I join you? This seems like the most lively of tables and your music is perfect for such an occasion" She stands and waits, only prepared to sit down if invited to do so.
DM Ken: Dinner Time! Saturday January 18th, 2020 1:00:38 PM
(I only got posts from half of ya. I'll post your Monday post on Sunday night and see if that helps for next week being a day ahead.)
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp Saturday January 18th, 2020 8:18:46 PM
Jozhur's head nods and a hint of a smile shows. He grabs one if his companions' empty chairs and pulls it next to himself, "You should sit here, where I can keep my eyes on you."
He notes whether he still feels the chilled air around Urlryn.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Sunday January 19th, 2020 2:55:35 PM
Fang loses interest in the other ratfolk before the extreme similarity really clicks in her head. She joins the rest in talking to the table next to them.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Sunday January 19th, 2020 4:57:10 PM
Aex looks at the Saphire Seven and sees if that scary lady is with them... she empties her drink and walks straight at the Seven.
"Good evening... I'd like to appologise for my bluntness earlier... I'm sorry my lady if I offended you. " she says to the weird one she offended with her ssarcasm earlier.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Sunday January 19th, 2020 11:09:14 PM
Fang has an idle thought she shares out loud. "Are teams allowed to bet? It would probably be bad form to bet on ourselves."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Monday January 20th, 2020 5:33:09 AM
Tahni keeps smiling in anticipation of being invited to take a seat. Worst case she gets turned away and has to put on a "sob" face.
DM Ken: Dinner Time! Monday January 20th, 2020 12:31:32 PM
Tersers lady friend happily accepts his forearm with a smile. Something about their encounter seems to have her in good spirits.
"Well met, Terser of the Scab. You'll find this to your liking I think then, considering the hops, spices, and yeast are all Scab grown. As am I." She gives a little wink, then continues. "So tell me Terser, what convinces a dwarf to up and leave his homelands, church, his family, and his siblings in search of adventure and fame?"
--
Rill, Fang, and Tahni make their way to Dragon Sound, heading towards the half dragon who is very clearly the leader of the band. He in the middle of a tale of daring and bravado, half telling the story, half singing it. Every time the story changes focus, there's a guitar riff. During exciting parts, there's flashes of light and magic. When he wants to inspire fear, another member might play a low eerie note on a pan flute.
This continues until he notices Rill. He holds up a hand to cut the performance, and smiles wide.
"Master Rillet! And of course, no bard worth his strings would fail to recognize these lovely ladies as Fang and Tahni Wyrmrider! The Dragon Consortium needs no introduction! Humble storytellers and musicians such as we make our daily bread off singing your tales! Please join us!"
The invitation is clearly extended to all of you three, and some people move out of the way for you lot to slide forward. With a laugh, he waves in his mates. They are mostly humans and half elves, with one Tauren exception.
"I'm Han Valen. It's a pleasure. We were pretty stoked when we heard that the consortium was sending a team this year. It should be quite the party!"
Fang asks about the betting.
"All bets are for individual events, one at a time. You are allowed to bet on any event you are not personally competing in at the time. This is the Chancers we are talking about, so they can pretty much cover any sum, be they are canny with the odds. They don't want anyone tanking matches for money."
-------
Bralins gambit is successful. With his eyes shining like polished sapphire, Gort lets go, saying nothing but clearly proud of his tiny victory. Dwarven manners would mark it rude to comment on right away, but Bralin is certain that anyone in Gorts clan, especially his own brood, will brag for centuries about the time one of the Stonecaller clan had a handshake so firm it hobbled a Dragon!
"Aye! Friends, come over here and be introduced!"
Gort chuckles. Then he points out some others.
"This is Cammie and Majorie, twins. Then there's Whirfoot, Tasin, and Lummox."
Everyone is in casual clothing, though Cammie is wearing a holy symbol of unique design around her neck, and Majorie has a bag of what appears to be spell components on her belt.
"Were a pretty straight-forward group. We all came together through an adventuring guild that manages parties in Aisildur. Almost everything there is ran by some guild or another. We hit it off, paid off our equipment debts, the rest is in the stones."
---
Jozhurs new friend sits with him, all smiles. Urlryn is many things. Pale, attractive, and still somehow foreboding. She seems calm, supremely confident, and she does indeed seem to chill the air around her. She doesn't offer an explanation.
"It looks like your companions are having a good time. You don't have to babysit me if you'd rather be working yourself into the crowds.", she offers. She pouts a little. "Though I do appreciate the company. Sometimes, even in a group of companions, one can still feel lonely." She peers at Jozhur, her eyes a piercing blue. "Surely, you can relate?"
--
About this time, Aexana makes her way into the crowd of the Sapphire Seven. She makes an apology, only to realize the focus of her apology is gone, or at least, not here with this lot. One of them chuckles and points to Jozhur and Urlryn.
"She's at your seats, Miss Aexana. And don't worry, at the time it was .. uncomfortable. The Mailed Fist has a short memory for insult however, seeing how many we endure. We forgive, though Urlryn might like to hear you herself. She's acutely aware of her.. oddities."
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 43/43, channel 7/7) Monday January 20th, 2020 3:08:42 PM Well, that story is long and well chronicled, though the new cards may not have hit the shelves yet.
Long tale short, I took a long time to make something of meself. My family didn't take too kindly to the reputation is was giving the family name, so they removed it from me and sent me to the church.
That straightened me out a bit, but I didn't really fit in there. Every expedition after the first tended to be a little farther from home, and it's been so many now that I've ended up here with my new family. Haven't heard much from them since I had to leave.
He leans back a bit, enjoying the tastes of home. Speaking of family, I didn't catch yer name. What's the story of you finding yourself here? And in the company of a cadre of machine men?
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday January 20th, 2020 5:32:10 PM
"It seems she's in good company... who am I to disturb them. Have a pleasant evening..."
Aex feels.somewhat stupid for not pay8ng closer attention so retreats to her part of the table.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Monday January 20th, 2020 5:54:47 PM
Gort lets go, and Bralin gives him a little nod to congratulate him on his victory.
He then nods to each of Gort's companions.
"Well met."
The dwarf glances over at the table marked for The Last Whisper.
"My understanding was that it would be deemed quite rude not to be present for this event. Yet it seems one of our number is content to spite our hosts. Know you anything about them?"
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp d20+23=35 ; Monday January 20th, 2020 5:55:27 PM
Jozhur shakes his head, "You can keep me company. I should probably be mingling, but these crowds are tiring."
Jozhur doesn't entirely trust his new Urlryn yet. He finds her conversation odd so far, almost probing. The Dragons would also likely be competing against her soon. She makes his hair stand on end a bit, literally and figuratively. He does his best to mask all this and plays along, trying to gauge her attitude. (sense motive: 35)
"I can relate, having grown up an orphan. But that has been some time ago. The Lionfish...err Sea Dragons took me in, they are my family." Then he remembers Reggie, and he's not quite sure what Urlryn is hinting at. "Though sometimes one can be lonely, even with family."
"And you seem to have a family in the Sapphires. How did you come to be with them?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Monday January 20th, 2020 9:17:15 PM "Greeting Han Valen." (Heh - Han Valen.)
"So I take it you are all bards? And if you are here, you are certainly more than mere chroniclers of other's deeds. Come then, what great feats and conquests are the members of Dragon Sound known for?"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Tuesday January 21st, 2020 5:18:13 AM
Tahni nods with a polite smile to Han "Lovely ladies? Hopefully he still feels that way after we beat him in the tournament"
"Yes. No need to be shy. Surely you are one of the favorites to win this thing for a reason?" Tahni has no idea if they are favorites to win or not, but it doesn't hurt to return a little flattery.
Out of the corner of her eye she tries to keep an eye on Terser. Very subtly mind you. She just wants to make he's ok. She's also curious to see if the constructs are doing anything or just standing idle. "I wonder if they are all under her control? How do you suppose she controls them?"
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday January 21st, 2020 7:18:42 AM
Fang pouts a little. "We didn't mean to interrupt. I wanted to hear the rest of your song."
DM Ken: Dinner Time! Tuesday January 21st, 2020 12:40:45 PM Tersers host smiles at him mischievously.
"Well, that questions answer is long and mostly chronicled in my own journal. Long tale short, my brother took too long to make anything out of himself. Apparently for awhile, he dabbled in service to the church."
She takes a long drink, and her voice hardens just a bit.
"I was pretty young at the time, but my older brother was my own personal hero. I was never as good as being me as he was being himself. Then, one day on his birthday, I went to take him a present I had made for him. A tiny gyrocopter that could hover in place over a flat surface. The priests told me he up and left without so much as a word." She seems to trace some imaginary blueprint on the table. "I didn't believe my own brother would do that, so I went looking for him for awhile. It wasn't until my clan dragged me back and told me that my dear brother never really had a place for our clan in his heart at all that I finally gave up. I missed him, but if he didn't care.. then why should I?"
Another drink, another hardening of the voice.
"So I stuck to myself, and I found my calling as an engineer. I had a knack for humanoid constructs, and a lot of people bought my designs to augment their town guard. But my clan worships Gargul, and Gargul hates constructs. I had to officially stop, but I never quit tinkering.. and then?"
She's staring hard at Terser now, knuckles white around her glass.
"And then I hear my brother who left me in the lurch is now a big-shot adventurer. He's got a new family it seems." , she practically spits out the word family. "After all. His blood and kin are out of sight, out of mind."
She gestures angrily to the constructs.
"I didn't have the luxury of a new family, and my own either didn't understand me, or abandoned me to wander about the world playing hero. So I built my own, and then took it on a world tour to prove its power. I've fought evil and battles in nearly every kingdom of the Wold. And when I was invited here, I realized it would be the best stage to show off what my family can do. And when I heard my dear big brother would be here..." She drains her glass again. She leans in real close to Terser, clearly angry. Each word is dripping with venom. "I figured no proper dwarf would miss the chance to reunite with long lost kin, right Terser?"
She settles back into her chair.
"I go by the name of Jada now.", she says grumpily. She loosens a necklace with an attached holy symbol from under her shirt, and lays it on the table. Rather than her and Tersers clan trinket, an anvil overlaid by Garguls symbol, it is instead that of Ffloy.
It seems little sister decided to follow her own path as well.
----------
Bralin asks a question about the missing team. Gort spits. "I dunno much about em either. But the rumors is that a few people want that million gold reward. For every hero like yourselves, there's a villain of equal skill. I hear some of them were either raised from the dead without Garguls blessin', sprung from jail, or pardoned in return for forming a team. The Chancers invited the best fighters here, not just the best people."
---
Aexana retreats back to her chair. She hears an amused farewell from the Sapphires behind her. Returning to her seats places her somewhat closer to Jozhur and Urlryn, who appear to be entirely engrossed in one another.
For his part, Jozhur finds Urlryn both offputting, and intriguing. He thinks her interest in him is genuine, even if its obvious that both are going to try and get something useful from the other to help themselves.
"I imagine my story is much more boring than yours. I found myself in need of money. The Mailed Fist needed more mercenaries. Our union made sense." She looks back at the seven. "I am a member of the unit, but not part of the group. They make an effort to be cordial and polite, but they still regard me as 'other'." She gives a rueful smile. "The seven of us have accomplished much together, but intimate friendship is not one of those things. When your charming little gnome called out my oddity, they were offended for my sake, I think. Nothing more."
She taps her finger on her lips for a moment, then asks.
"So what sort of skills does Jozhur bring to the Dragon Consortium? I don't imagine every enemy is a silly woman you can charm with your cool demeanor and aloofness?"
----
Rill, Tahni, and Fang continue with Dragon Sound. When they insist he brag a little, he does. A lot.
"I suppose we could recount the dozens of monsters slain, hamlets saved, and treasures and virtues plundered, but you are Woldian Heroes, acclaimed to much of the same! I suppose if we had a story to rival that of you ... 'dragons'..", he pauses a moment to smile with obvious amusement at the term, given his heritage, "..it would be our slaying of my own matron, Telas."
He smiles.
"My mother sought a human heir. Not for any maternal calling, but rather she understood that in the Wold today, humans are the dominate species. She took a human form, and with magic and enchantment, took a powerful chieftain to her quarters. The man was a hero in his own right, strong and handsome, charismatic and brave."
The Minotaur throws a drumstick at his friend here.
"Apple fell far from the tree!"
With a quick dodge, Han watches the stick land in the white beach sand. "Touche, Jon von Bovine, but I'll have you know many women and men would say otherwise!"
Settling back in, he starts to continue again. "My father died as heroes do, in violent fashion against terrible odds. He..." And again, he is interrupted. The cat-girls from the beastkin party scamper up and over the table in a game of chase. One holds a cooked fish in her mouth, and the other seems to have been the victim of a fish-theft. Laughing, the perpetrator leads a merry chase down towards the coast.
"Twice is quite enough!", shouts Han. He slumps into his chair. "We killed a dragon. It was my mother. She was quite the tyrant, and it had to be done.", he says gloomily. "Chance led us together. Each of us boasted we would slay Telas in different taverns around the floating city, and each of us lead a band of warriors to the task. All of our parties fled, and only we remained, each unwilling to relinquish the right of the tale to another bard. The thing was done, and thus we became bonded."
Another bard claps slowly. "You'll win awards for THAT rendition, quitter." His voice is dry and sarcastic. Trying to stop an argument, Von Bovine starts a drumline. It doesn't take long until another joins in, and then another, and soon Han grins and reaches for his guitar.
"Your song, White Lady, with the cute ears and tail!"
--Insert cool song about a ratkin girl who dances on the moon at night, and sleeps in the sun during the day with the following chorus and shreddin' guitar riffs---
"On the moon at night - there is a sight - that the gods all wait to see! There's a dancing girl - with snowy fur - and tiny claws on her feet!
She dances all night - alone in her fun! After sleeping all day - alone in the sun!
Shes taken my heart - she's the one for me! So I watch her dance - until she sleeps!
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 d20+14=25 ; d20+33=38 ; Tuesday January 21st, 2020 3:35:00 PM
Rill responds to Van, "Well, Van, it seems you have a muse. And it seem Fang has an admirer.
"Pity you had to slay a dragon, much less a relation. They're such noble creatures, but they can also be a bit full of themselves. And they can tend to eat people. So there's that. I trust that you did what you had to do, as we all must from time to time."
Then Rill will speak more quietly just to Han, Tahni and Fang, "Speaking of doing what we have to do at times, you all seem like a goodly sort. While we are all here for a the challenges, I am concerned that there may be more going on than just a high profile competition. I don't have any specific information and it's really not much more than a hunch, but tell your folks to stay sharp. Bards are known for their bravado and skill, but they are also known as good observers and capable of subtlety when called for.
"If there is trouble beyond just the competitions, can we count on you as allies?"
Rill watches the dragonborn's reaction.
Diplomacy 25 Sense Motive 38
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 43/43, channel 7/7) Tuesday January 21st, 2020 4:26:40 PM
Terser pauses, glass held halfway to his lips. He goes a little pale, jaw dropping. .........what??
Well, this tournament promised to be surprising. He never would have guessed it would go this way. Still, he transitions quickly from shock to indignation.
You may have been too young to remember, but I didn't have a choice in the matter. The same family you decided to leave threw me out on my rear.
I'm sorry you didn't fit in, and I'm glad you were able to create success for yourself, Jada. But if you wanted to get in touch, it should have been easy to send a letter. I had assumed I was forgotten.
If you want to be angry at someone, it should be our parents. It seems neither of us were able to live up to their expectations.
Terser finally has the presence of mind to get Tahni's message and sends a quick mental note back. It seems my little sister has become quite the master of constructs. These are some of her original designs.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday January 21st, 2020 5:48:12 PM
Ooc friends very sorry I'm out with the flu
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Tuesday January 21st, 2020 6:00:32 PM "No I haven't" Tahni is confused as to why he would think that she had become a master of constructs. She was still plain old Tahni. The one he often referred to as little sister. "What's he..."
And then it hits her. That's his REAL little sister. Oh boy.
"Do you need us? Want me to come over?"
With all that going on she completely tuned out to the song being played by the bards. Once they have finished she has no idea what it was about so just claps and cheers. "Well done. Well done" She is now clearly distracted by what is happening at Terser's table.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Tuesday January 21st, 2020 6:58:50 PM
Bralin is working his way through some major pieces of information.
My earlier jest proved prophetic. The Last Whisper has undead among its number.
Half listening for the reply, as well as Terser's response about if he needs aid, Bralin's eyebrows drop in a frown.
"Hmm. That may be problematic," he replies to Gort. "The Sea Dragons respond .... decisively ... when among undead."
Deciding he's out of conversation anyway. "Tis time I joined in the feasting," he jokes. "Well met, Gort Stonecaller. I look forward to competing with you."
Bralin nods and returns to the Dragon's table.
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp Tuesday January 21st, 2020 9:17:03 PM
Jozhur shakes his head at Urlryn and glances down at his belt weighted down by two small swords and a dagger, "I don't carry these around for nothing." He tries to think of the last time he even tried to smooth talk an enemy, "In fact the blades get a lot more use than words. Without giving away more than what will eventually be obvious, I'm a sort of 'jack of all trades'."
He carefully looks the drow up and down, "I'm curious about you, Urlryn. You don't seem like just some 'silly woman'. Your role seems far less obvious. What is it you do when you can't handle your foes with just stunning good looks?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 43/43, channel 7/7) Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 6:12:10 PM I don't think I'm in any immediate danger. Hopefully we can work through some issues. I don't think Rill will be happy about her chosen profession though.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 29/16/27 - SR 20 - CMD 26 Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 6:38:31 PM "I have no quarrel with your sister. Her constructs are frankly less concerning to me than those monks that are clearly meant to pass as humans. Terser - see if we can count on her if things go sideways outside the challenges.
"Since we were warned by Gargul and the Iron Dragons that there is a bigger threat to the Wold, I have a hunch that The Last Whisper may have something to do with that."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 7:00:53 PM
Fang isn't a dancer but she nods along to the music and claps when it's finished. "Very nice! Did you make that up on the spot or was it one you already knew?"
DM Ken: Dinner AND a Show Whitesands Beach Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 7:32:58 PM
Many of the Sea Dragons continue their personal conversations, and some continue speaking on about the assumed threat of Last Whisper.
(DM Note: It was my intention to inform Bralin of the fact that some of their members were previously slain villains, raised with Resurrection type magics, not that they were rumored to be undead.)
Tersers sister considers his words for a moment, then starts to speak, but her words are cut off by a loud scream from the beach, followed by an explosion of tremendous force.
----
Down on the beach, the catfolk females who were just playing tag are surrounded. A pile of charred bones lay in a heap near one of them, while another jabs her punching dagger into the eye socket of a fallen enemy.
"Eeeeeek!"
Other groups stop their merrymaking and look to the beach. There's more commotion back up the path, and more explosions of sounds. Han Valen grabs Rill by the shoulder.
"We will go back up the path and catch up with the other groups to see whats happening. You guys handle this here at the beach!" Undeniably, there's a twinkle of excitement in the bards eye.
------------
Please note that the map is not going to 100% match up with the social situation. Im just using what I have available.
1. Please move your own tokens for movement, and let me know when a monster/you provokes an AOE. Its honor system folks.
2. Posts will come in around 6:30 PM CST. If you miss a round of combat, you are just considered in a daze of indecision.
3. The link to the combat map is in my header.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 6/7) 7d6=29 ; d20+28=44 d20+28=41 d10+16=25 d10+16=22 Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 11:59:52 PM
Terser wastes no time hustling up to the desperately fighting catfolk. He yells out to them.
Share my strength!
double move, free action to rage. Raging aura allows me to share greater rage with friendly targets (+6STR/CON, +3 Will, -2AC) Will offer to the catfolk, and Fang is in range if she'd like it
He then uses a quick burst of extra energy to channel a wave of positive force at the shadows. should be able to hit 4. Rapid channel ability allows me to expend 4 rounds of rage to channel energy as a swift action. 29 damage or Will Save 27 to reduce to 14.
Temp AC = 20 Temp HP = 327
He then readies his glaive to attack any of the shadows that come in range 2 AoO's at 10 foot range
AC 44 and AC41 if applicable 25 and 22 damage
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+9Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Thursday January 23rd, 2020 3:37:41 AM "Well this can't be good"
Tahni uses her overland flight spell to get closer and draws into her bloodwitch spells. "Stop attacking those people!" she commands the shadows "In fact, stop attacking everyone and group yourselves up as tightly as you can."
It's one of Tahni's more powerful spells and seems suitable for the occasion.
------------------ Move: Fly 40ft closer to the action Standard: Cast Control Undead centered on the middle shadow. The spell affects 38HD of undead (no two of which can be more than 30 ft. apart - which I think covers all of them anyway). Will Save vs DC30 or be under Tahni's control for 19mins
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp Thursday January 23rd, 2020 2:23:50 PM
Well, so much for the party. Of course it would be crashed.
Jozhur activates his boots of haste and rushes to help the catfolk.
---------------------- Boots of haste used: 1/10
Please move Jozhur to the square left of the upper left shadow. Move speed of 65 will get him there on a double move. Can't figure out how to edit the maps on mobile.
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 34/19/30 - SR 20 - CMD 26 9d6=31 ; d20+38=57 ; Thursday January 23rd, 2020 4:17:47 PM
Rill will use a Quicken Spell Rod to cast Shield of Faith on himself as a swift action. Then he will use Dimensional Step to move down on the beach (move action.) Once there amidst the shadows he will release a burst of energy to damage the shadows for 31 damage (DC 22 Will Save for half.)
"This is not a serious threat with so many heroes at the ready. This is either a test to show others our strengths, or it's a distraction from something else that's going on or that's about to happen."
Rill will look around. (Perception 58)
Rill (MarkB) HP 161/161 - AC 34/19/30 - SR 20 - CMD 26 d20+33=39 ; Thursday January 23rd, 2020 4:19:28 PM
Rill will also look at these two catfolk, trying to gauge if they seem genuinely afraid or concerned about these shadow creatures.
Sense Motive 39
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Thursday January 23rd, 2020 5:40:03 PM
Bralin regretfully drops his mug.
The dwarf activates his Winged Boots, and flies toward the foe, drawing his waraxe in the process.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday January 23rd, 2020 7:18:33 PM
Fang grabs her axe and stands but is stopped by Rills comment. Maybe whatever they're after is up here? She stands with indecision.
Terser moves in and shares his rage. After he crosses the bridge, a large number of undead burst forth from under the sands. Tahni puts mental control over 3 of the Greater Shadows. Jozhur rushes forward to help the cat girls. Rill releases a rod from his gloves of storing, teleports, then channels energy. Three makes their saves, and two take full damage. He notes they seem to have channel resistance. Rill considers the two catgirls. They have apparently used some spells and combat to fight the undead, but to discern much more than that takes at least one full minute. Sense Motive: Action Trying to gain information with Sense Motive generally takes at least 1 minute, and you could spend a whole evening trying to get a sense of the people around you. Rill takes a moment to examine his surroundings. Undead are emerging all around them. Some from the sands, some from the water. He notices with his very high perception roll that it seems the undead have engaged in a targeting pattern. The shadows are going for martial combatants. The mummified crocs are going after whomever is closest, skeletal mages are targeting spell casters, and giants seem to be looking to engage anyone not currently in combat. Bralin advances, while flying. Fang stops and stands put, unsure of what to do.
-----------------------------------------
Catgirl 1: Casts a dimension door spell, and teleports back near the tables. Catgirl 2: Steps into a shadow and vanishes.
----------------------------------------
The Shadows are mostly under Tahnis control. Two of them attack, targeting Jozhur and Terser.
Red Shadow hits touch AC 25 vs Jozhur for 3 strength damage. Orange Shadow hits touch AC 13 vs Terser for 5 strength damage.
------------------------------------------
Mummified Crocodiles: erupt from the water and charge into Rill. They also were in range of his channel, and took some damage. Their hideous visage is unnatural and terrifiying.
ALL PLAYERS, WILL SAVE DC 16 x3 or be paralzyed for d4 rounds.
Red Croc hits AC 35 for 13 damage. Rill must make a Fort save vs Disease, DC 16 or take 6 con damage and suffer from mummy rot. Blue Croc hits AC 20 and misses. Green Croc hits AC 26 and misses.
----------------------------------
Skeletal mages emerge from the sands near the beach. Each targets Rill with a magic missile spell. Rill takes (5, 6, 8, and 7) damage from magic missiles, totaling 26 damage.
---------------------------------
Cloud Giant Skeletons emerge from the water and attack. One of these was in range of Rills channel and took damage.
Cloud Giant (green) attacks Tahni, hitting AC 31 for 20 damage. Cloud Giant (red) attacks Terser, hitting AC 33 for 15 damage. Cloud Giant (pink) attacks Fang, hitting AC 30 for 15 damage. Cloud Giant (blue) attacks Jozhur, missing on AC 26.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+21=24 ; d20+21=30 ; d20+21=40 ; Friday January 24th, 2020 3:40:10 AM
Tahni is pretty happy with herself for a few moments. Things seemed under control until all these other undead appeared. Those giants could be a pain though. She tries for the same trick again and casts another control spell.
"Giants! Attack those other giants!" she directs any she has controlled
The thing about shadows though is she isn't quite sure that their attacks will work on other undead things or not. She'll have to try something else.
"Shadow! Yes, that one! You! You make sure you flank with THAT guy!" Tahni points out Jozhur. She knows he's at his best when he can flank things.
"And you!" she says pointing at another shadow "You make sure you flank with THAT guy!". Tahni points out Terser.
"And lastly you!" she points out the last one "I'll think of something for you to do"
She then disappears from sight.
------------------------ Will Saves vs DC16: 24, 30, 40. All Pass
Tahni - Standard action: Defensively cast Control Undead in the middle of the giants: 38HD of undead to make a Will Save vs DC30 or be under Tahni's control. - Move action: Fey Domain (Hide Away). Tahni is invisible under her next turn. - Free action: 5ft step away
Controlled Giants - Full action: Attack non-controlled giants
OOC to DM: Not sure if you want me to move the controlled undead around on the map so tried to put it into instructions for you as to what the plan is.
RobC - subbing for Aex 20d6=60 ; 20d6=59 ; 20d6=71 ; Friday January 24th, 2020 8:05:07 AM
Aex takes a step to the right and sends a beam of ultraviolet light from her palm. She manages to catch the green cloud giant, and the red and green crocs in the bright light.
Leafy isn't quite sure what to do and twiddles his twigs (thumbs!)
------------------ Standard: Cast Sunbeam. 60ft line. Green Cloud Giant: Ref Save vs DC26. Pass=30pts dmg. Fail=60pts dmg. Red Croc: Ref Save vs DC26. Pass=29pts dmg. Fail=59pts dmg. Green Corc: Ref Save vs DC26. Pass=35pts dmg. Fail=71pts dmg.
In addition: the beam results in the destruction of any undead creature specifically harmed by bright light if it fails its save.
Rill (MarkB) HP 156/169 - AC 34/19/30 - SR 20 - CMD 26 d20+18=22 ; d20+16=30 ; 10d6=32 ; 9d6=29 ; d20+28=32 ; d20+28=31 ; d20+28=31 ; Friday January 24th, 2020 2:18:01 PM
Rill manages to resist the effects of the mummy rot, and ignores the horrible visage of the mummified crocs. Followers of Gargul are made of sterner stuff than that. (He probably managed to resist some of those Magic Missiles as well with his spell resistance.)
He then Dimensional Hops 10' over. This puts him within 30 feet of all the undead except the spell casters, and he releases a burst of channeled energy for 29 damage (DC 22 Will Save for half.)
Finally, he uses his Quicken Spell Rod to shoot a Searing Light at the red undead spell caster (hits touch AC 30 for 32 points of damage.)
He'll laugh as he shouts for all the assembled competitors to hear, "Are the Sea Dragons the only competitors here worthy of this fight? If so, perhaps we should just call these games over and declare us the winners right now."
------------------------ Fort Save vs DC16: 22. Pass Will Saves vs DC16: 32, 31, 31, 40. All Pass
- Move action to use Dimensional Hop, which does not provoke an AOO - Standard Action to Channel Energy - Swift action to cast a Quickened Searing Light
Rill is +1 to AC and saves vs undead, which is not reflected his header. Also, his Scarab of Protection grants him Spell Resistance 20, so some of those Magic Missiles may not have hit - not sure of the level of those spell casters or I'd have rolled that for the DM.
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp 3 STR damage d20+15=33 ; d20+15=17 ; d20+15=20 ; d20+27=31 ; d6+9=14 ; 2d6=10 ; 7d6=17 ; Friday January 24th, 2020 4:18:49 PM
Knowing he can't do much to the shadows, Jozhur vanishes from sight and reappears in the midst of the Clout Giant skeletons. He takes a lunge at the giant skeleton and braces for the pummeling he is sure to receive.
----------------------- Attack at AC 34 (forget Tahni's greater magic weapon +4): 14 damage, 10 damage if evil, 17 sneak damage (41)
Will saves: 33, 17, 20 (all pass) 3 STR damage taken
Use 25/40' of shadow jump as move action to flank with Terser and his reach weapon.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) d20+29=45 ; d10+14=17 ; d6=5 ; 3d6=12 ; d20+24=38 ; d10+14=24 ; d6=1 ; d20+19=35 ; d10+14=21 ; d6=6 ; d20+29=30 ; Friday January 24th, 2020 6:01:03 PM
Bralin shrugs off the crocs visage. He's been inside a kraken. It takes a lot to get him perturbed. +22 Will Save
Possibly Tahni already controls this giant, but such is life.
Bralin takes a 5' move into the nearest green giant, takes a moment to charge his weapon with positive energy, and rains blows upon the foe.
-- NOTE AC 44 vs giant subtype.
Full attack on Green Giant. Channel Smite (swift action) on first blow
Atk 1 hits AC 45 for 17 damage, plus 5 cold damage, plus 12 positive energy damage (Will DC 15 halves) Atk 2 hits AC 38 for 24 damage, plus 1 cold damage Atk 3 hits AC 35 for 21 damage, plus 6 cold damage Haste atk miss Nat 1.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 37/43, channel 6/7) d20+14=19 ; d20+14=16 ; d20+14=28 ; d20+21=41 ; d20+21=27 ; d20+21=30 ; d20+21=33 ; d20+21=35 ; 3d10=15 ; d10+25=30 ; d10+25=29 ; d10+25=30 ; Friday January 24th, 2020 8:05:55 PM
Will saves 19, 16, 28 - all pass
Terser sure doesn't like his strength being sapped. He bets Rill doesn't either. He steps in close to his friend and tries to dispatch the shadows that aren't moving. Agile moves allows 5 ft step into difficult terrain
They seem easy to hit, even if they don't seem to feel the full force of his strikes, so he goes full bore. Power Attacks 1st focused on the one I hit with AoO, move to the other in range if it goes down, and possibly onto the giant if the shadows fall 1st Crit - 90 damage 2nd (item haste) vs AC 30 - 30 damage 3rd vs AC 28 - 29 damage 4th vs AC 25- 30 damage
Tahni captures two of the giants. Red and Blue. She directs her suddenly sizable undead army. "Do the things!", and they listen. Aexana sunbeam spell punches through all three enemies at full force. Both crocodiles glow with a bright light, then explode. Rill channels again, the epitome of a stern cleric of gargul. Every greater shadow glows bright with light, then they all dissolve into a pile of sand on the beach. Jozhur throws himself into the nearest skeletal giant. Huge chunks of bone shatter away when he hits. Just as the giant tries to stabilize, Bralin crashes into as well, splintering the whole thing into pieces. Terser finds himself with no shadows left, so his DM assigns him fulled defense for the turn.
-----------------------------------------
Catgirl 1: seems entranced by Tahni. She casts a magic missile spell into a bone giant. Then with a wink, she steps into the shadows, just like Tahni did. Catgirl 2: Reappears next to a skeletal mage and punches into it with her katar.
----------------------------------------
The Shadows are all dead.
------------------------------------------
Mummified Crocodiles: snaps its jaws into Terser. It crushes AC 26 for 13 damage.
----------------------------------
Skeletal mages shamble forwards. Each targets Rill with a magic missile spell yet again. Rills DM is now aware Rill had SR, but given the state of the encounter so far, he isnt going to bother going back and sorting it out. .
All four send scorching rays towards Fang. She is hit by only one ray for 18 damage. ---------------------------------
Cloud Giant Skeletons hammer against the only remaining one not under Tahnis sway. They tear it to pieces with their powerful claws.
At Rills challenge there's a bit of a chuckle through most of the assembled fighters. Dragon Sound isn't there anymore, (having left to explore a noise) and only the Sapphire Seven and the Talons of Aisuldur seem genuinely surprised.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List d20+19=25 ; d20+19=26 ; d20+19=34 ; d20+36=44 ; d20+36=37 ; d20+31=43 ; d20+26=40 ; d20+21=25 ; d10+19=29 ; d10+19=26 ; d10+19=26 ; d10+19=21 ; 2d6=6 ; 2d6=7 ; 2d6=4 ; 2d6=7 ; Friday January 24th, 2020 9:06:32 PM
The sight of additional foes decides her and Fang flies into battle, activating a flury of magic to aid her as she rushes the skeletal giant (Quickened Divine Favor, Touch of Good, Activating boots of Speed, falls into Terser's shared rage. Moved into giants 10 foot reach provoking AoO against her)
Attack 1: 44 to hit, 29 damage (+6 if evil) Haste attack: nat 1 Attack 2: 43 to hit, 36 damage (+7 if evil) Attack 3: 40 to hit, 26 damage (+4 if evil)
RobC - subbing for Aex 20d6=70 ; 20d6=69 ; 20d6=86 ; Saturday January 25th, 2020 2:09:32 AM
Aex repeats her tactics. She takes a step to the right and sends another beam of ultraviolet light from her palm towards the undead. She manages to catch the pink and red cloud giants, and blue mage.
------------------ Standard: Use Sunbeam. 2nd of 6 beams. 60ft line. Pink Cloud Giant: Ref Save vs DC26. Pass=35pts dmg. Fail=70pts dmg. Red Cloud Giant: Ref Save vs DC26. Pass=34pts dmg. Fail=69pts dmg. Blue Mage: Ref Save vs DC26. Pass=43pts dmg. Fail=86pts dmg.
In addition: the beam results in the destruction of any undead creature specifically harmed by bright light if it fails its save.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Saturday January 25th, 2020 2:11:17 AM
To Tahni, the battle has gone quite well. If any of this helps intimidate the onlookers then all the better.
She holds on to her remaining spells and directs her summons to attack anything she hasn't yet controlled (and that hasn't already been destroyed by the rest of the party).
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 36/43, channel 5/7) 7d6=21 ; Saturday January 25th, 2020 3:04:28 AM
Terser sees the enemies falling all around him to get at the mages. He's surprised that a croc isn't next to him, since it attacked him before, but whatever. If it's not strength draining, he's not too worried.
21 Damage to everything left - Will Save 27 for half.
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp 3 STR damage d20+32=41 ; d20+9=28 ; d6+9=14 ; 2d6=8 ; 7d6=24 ; Saturday January 25th, 2020 7:17:31 PM
Jozhur activates his boots of haste again to make his way behind the skeletal casters (provokes 2 opportunity attacks from blue and 1 from green, Jozhur has +4 AC against such attacks). He stabs with his trusty sword, hoping to do more damage.
------------------------------------------- Move action: 60' of movement to get behind mages Attack hits AC 41: 14 damage, 8 holy damage, 24 sneak damage (46), attack is piercing damage
Boots of haste used: 2/10 (+1AC/attack rolls for round) Shadow jump used: 25/40' 3 STR damage taken
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) d20+25=40 ; d10+22=23 ; d6=2 ; d20+20=29 ; d10+22=30 ; d6=4 ; d20+15=25 ; d10+22=24 ; d6=4 ; d20+25=42 ; d10+22=32 ; d6=2 ; Sunday January 26th, 2020 1:56:37 PM Be this truly an attack, or merely some entertainment manufactured by the Chancer? Bralin's curiosity does not divert him from the task at hand. His battleaxe carves large pieces out of the mummified croc.
-- Full Attack. Power attack on croc Btax 1 hits ac 40 for 23 hp + 2 cold damage Btax 2 hits ac 29 for 30 hp + 4 cold damage Btax 3 hits ac 25 for 24 hp + 4 cold damage Haste atk hits ac 42 for 32 hp + 2 cold damage
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Monday January 27th, 2020 12:14:23 AM
Fang presses the attack.
Rill (MarkB) HP 156/169 - AC 33/20/30 - SR 20 - CMD 27 9d6=30 ; 9d6+38=60 ; 9d6+6=32 ; d20+38=55 ; d20+6=19 ; Monday January 27th, 2020 1:44:05 PM
Rill calls on his God's power to guide his steps in the sand as he takes a 5' move. Then he unleashes another blast of divine energy, hoping to put a quick end to these undead abominations. Channel Energy for 30 damage (DC 22 Will Save for half.)
Did any of the rest of you notice that those skeletal mages seem to have cast both Magic Missile and Scorching Ray at once?
Does Rill notice if they are using a metamagic rod or some other items that would let them quicken a spell?
Perception 55 Knowledge Arcana 19
------------------------ - Free action to activate Agile Feet to ignore difficult terrain. - 5' move to be within 30 feet of all undead. - Standard Action to Channel Energy.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday January 27th, 2020 5:30:39 PM
ooc - Thanks a lot for covering for me Rob. Post was made already prior to DM so won't post anything now. It's not ghostlike things we are facing right? Leafy has ghost touch gear... never used though... bad choice so far :-)
DM Ken: Dinner AND a Show Whitesands Beach Monday January 27th, 2020 7:02:38 PM
Fang and Aexana decimate that last pair of skeletons, and after multiple channelings of positive energy, the last quartet of undead are quickly turned to ash by the zealous Sea Dragons.
Rill was curious about the double cast. His high perception roll notices a few hollowed out, colorless husks of gemstone laying on the ground near the pile of dead skeleton mages. Its the only item on them, so it likely had something to do with it.
Rill, Fang , and Jozhur, will saves DC 25. Terser. Will save DC 32. (School is divination, if you get a bonus to this.)
--------------------
There's some raucious applause from the tables as the last undead is felled, and some money starts changing hands. On the beach, one of the cat-girls staggers up the beach and swoons into Rills arms.
"Myi Hero!", she calls out. He punching daggers are put away, and she doesn't seem to be much of a threat, unless you have feline allergies. Further up by the tables, the other catgirl drops and wraps herself around Tahni's ankles. "Such a strong girrrl! I might be in love!"
All Players: 92,000 xp for monsters and RP through this part of the module.
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp 3 STR damage d20+15=23 ; d20+28=36 ; Monday January 27th, 2020 7:16:56 PM
Jozhur gathers himself and surveys the area before putting away his weapons.
Perception: 36 Will save: 23 (failed)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 36/43, channel 5/7) d20+16=22 ; Monday January 27th, 2020 11:14:19 PM
Terser comes down from his rage, and doesn't find anything weird about the gems. 22 - failed will save
He finally notices to feeling of being weaker than normal. He doesn't like it. Hey Rill - got anything to help with that weak feeling?
He keeps an eye on Tahni, asking her if she needs help this time. He also looks around to see where his sister may have run off to.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+31=43 ; Tuesday January 28th, 2020 4:09:45 AM "I'm all good Terser. You?" she checks in on him before using the telepathic link for the rest "And your sister? All good there?"
Tahni has a good look at the overly affectionate catgirl to see if she is injured in any physical way. Folks sure are friendly round these parts. Perhaps there's something in the water here?
"There's really no need for that" Tahni lowers her hand to help raise the catgirl to her feet "Are you alright?"
She looks about "Any word from Dragon Sound yet? Perhaps we should go see if there is any further trouble"
-------------- Perception: 43
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List d20+19=28 ; Tuesday January 28th, 2020 7:08:42 AM
Fang doesn't even notice whatever she's saving against as she calms down (will save 28). She looks about the area warily for more threats. "What was that about?" she wonders aloud.
Rill (MarkB) HP 156/169 - AC 33/20/30 - SR 20 - CMD 27 d20+28=41 ; d4=4 ; d4=4 ; Tuesday January 28th, 2020 11:07:31 AM
Rill feels something press in on his psyche a bit, but resists any more effect (will save 41.) Does he have any idea what this was?
Rill picks up the spent gems. "Huh. He Tahni, Aex - what do you make of this. Those mages managed to cast two spells at once - something like this would be handy."
He peels the fawning catwoman off of him. "It was our pleasure - all of us - to come to your aid my dear. And we would do it again. Do you think we can count on your group if the need arises?"
In response to Terser's request, Rill pulls out a wand and touches the dwarf, healing him for 4 points of Strength, and Jozhur for 4 points of Strength.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday January 28th, 2020 1:44:45 PM
Aex does find they have been able to dispatch these things far too easy... almost as if it was orchestrated to see the strength of the Sea Dragons. To see what spells would be cast... to learn who acts how and why... Let's hope this is just Aex's paranoia kicking in...
Eager to learn more about the gems that were used Aex sides with Rill as he is examining them. It's hard to concentrate though with the cat-woman curling up on Rill's leg... With a little chuckle she pats Rill on the back wishing him good fortune with his admirer.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Tuesday January 28th, 2020 2:16:48 PM
Bralin cleans off his axe, a sour expression on his face.
Noting Jozhur is handling clean up duties, the dwarf turns and starts trotting in the direction Dragon Sound went.
DM Ken: Dinner AND a Show Whitesands Beach Tuesday January 28th, 2020 6:44:53 PM
Bralin doesn't have to bother. About the time he makes it back to the tables, Dragon Sound is on their own way back, looking confused. Han Valen is complaining. "I just don't see why someone would start making loud noise in the village for no reason."
Rill feels the hair stand up on the back of his neck, like he's being watched. He feels the touch of divination magic slide over him, then melt away. Fang also senses this. Those who failed their will saved don't even know they made them. (Your DM just isn't a fan of secret rolls).
Terser finds his sister sitting with her constructions, watching him with a face that seems impressed.
Aex is pretty sure this was a feint, and Tahni has no need of a fawning cat-girl.
[b]Jozhur notices nothing unsual, or nothing new and unusual, anyhow. They are still kind of kicking around the debris of a skeletal army that interrupted dinner.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Wednesday January 29th, 2020 5:45:28 AM "Say... where are our hosts? What do they have to say about all of this? And where are those monks? Aren't they supposed to be guards here?" The lack of any authority here is somewhat concerning.
Tahni looks over the gems presented by Rill
Spellcraft check: 43 (Take10)
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday January 29th, 2020 8:15:52 AM
Fang is still very confused. So was this a planned surprise test for the tournament? An attack? What was the point? It's not like they'd kill anyone with so many powerful groups at the tables.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 36/43, channel 5/7) Wednesday January 29th, 2020 12:51:05 PM If it's divination related, I have Mind Blank on if it changes things
Well sis, most dinners aren't like this for us. If you'd like, I'd be happy to grab a quieter drink somewhere. It seems like we both missed out on a lot, and hopefully we can fill some of that in and make up for lost time.
Rill (MarkB) HP 156/169 - AC 33/20/30 - SR 20 - CMD 27 d20+38=45 ; Wednesday January 29th, 2020 4:11:57 PM
Rill will respond silently to the Sea Dragons. "Tahni's right. There is a conspicuous silence from both out hosts and those mechanized monks that are supposed to handle things like this. Someone had to bury those undead in the sands a while ago. Add to that the fact that I just shrugged off some sort of divination magic. None of this is adding up. But perhaps we can use this to our advantage.
Rill will stand on the raised platform and shout, "HEAR ME, HEAR ME ALL ASSEMBLED HERE."
Assuming things quiet down enough for him to be heard, he continues.
"Assembled Contestants and guests! We all just saw an attempts to disrupt these games. And it could be that someone is testing us. All of us. Whoever did this managed to bury those undead in the sand to lay in wait for the right moment. Those undead attacked members of the Fangs of the Beast, while Dragonsong was lured away with a distraction. I'm sure that the monks here who are charged with security at this event would have addressed this matter if they'd gotten there first.
"However, this should serve as a warning to each of us. Let all the groups assembled here be watchful and ready to come to one anohter's aid should the need arise. All of us stronger when we stand together."
Rill will then look expectantly to any of the monks or the Chancer's representatives to speak up.
As he waits, Rill will once again use his magical abilities to get an idea about the crowd around them. He uses his Deathwatch ability from his circlet, and his class abilities to Sense Outsiders and Constructs. He shares what he learns with his friends.
He also looks for anything else unusual or concerning. I mean, aside from the remains of undead littering the beach.
Perception 45
---------------------------- Deathwatch - Range 30'. You instantly know whether each creature within the area is dead, fragile (alive and wounded, with 3 or fewer hit points left), fighting off death (alive with 4 or more hit points), healthy, undead, or neither alive nor dead (such as a construct). Deathwatch sees through any spell or ability that allows creatures to feign death.
Sense Outsider - Sense direction and distance to any outsider, fey, demon, devil, or elemental within 1,080 ft., even through solid objects.
Sense Construct - Sense direction and distance to any any construct, animated object, or golem within 1,080 ft., even through solid objects.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday January 29th, 2020 4:47:05 PM
Aex quietly finds Leafy while she listens to Rill as he addresses the crowd. He's good! In any case it seems these games will have more to them than just the games... no one's to be trusted around here. That's one note to herself Aex will not forget...
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Wednesday January 29th, 2020 6:19:25 PM
Bralin grabs and drains a flagon of ale while Rill speaks.
Trusting his more perceptive comrades to pick up on any clues, the dwarf sits and replays the events in his mind, trying to glean the strategy of this unknown foe.
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp 3 STR damage d20+26=46 ; Wednesday January 29th, 2020 7:32:33 PM
Jozhur also finds himself some ale and returns to his seat. Did Urlryn run off during this?
He nods along as Rill speaks, carefully eying the audience. (Perception: 46)
DM Ken: Dinner AND a Show Whitesands Beach Wednesday January 29th, 2020 8:09:46 PM
Tahni seems to be looking for an authority figure, but there's not one. She does recall that a grand total of 24 seconds passed from the beginning of the scrap to the end. Its a safe bet that no one has really had time to react yet.
She also examines the husks, and finds that they seem to be completely worthless now. They are of a make and structure she's not seen before. If she had to hazard a guess, she assumes they allow a one time use of a meta-magic feat.
Fang looks around confused. She's lost. Bralin finds another drink and takes time to think. Jozhur looks for Urlwyn, who is looking intently at the Fangs of the Beast. She seems to have something in mind.
Terser invites his sister somewhere private, and she seems more than willing. "Fine.", she says. As she stands, her mechanical group stands with her. It's impressive they can respond without instanced controls. "Take me somewhere, Terser. I've still got a few questions."
Rill calls out to the assembled teams, including Dragon Sound, who are now present. Both cat girls look at each other surprised, then snicker mischievously. When he pauses, a pair of monks speak from up the beach. The one speaking is most certainly a regular, mortal human.
"We went to investigate the explosion. Please understand, we are here to make sure the tournament happens to completion. We will fight at your side should the need arise, but most of you here are far beyond our capacity to protect. What we are trained to do, is attempt to protect the crowds and bystanders, evacuate others in case of emergency, or possibly give our lives to protect them from the most dangerous things on the island."
He pauses a moment, and with a nervous chuckle he points at Rill.
"And that would the you lot, the competitors. Not that anyone suspects the Dragons of anything, or any of the esteemed teams present, but with this many powerful mortals in one place, who knows what could happen."
Aexana, has learned that the only ones she trusts are her fellows. Its probably a safe bet to make.
There's a bit of a moment of silence, and a few of the teams look around nervous. Finally, a sixth figure joins the Fangs, and responds to Rill. She's another catgirl, bringing the team to three. Her fur is a jumbled mess of black and white, and there's a few bells hanging off the end of a staff that she carries.
"You exaggerate human. You were never in any danger, no one was, and I think you perrrcieved such a truth already. As the favorrrrites to win the tournament, your secrets are the most valuable to glean. The undead were under my control. Your dismantling of them was most impressive. I can promise you'll not be seeing them from me again."
The old grizzled bear-folk at the table snorts.
"I told you that it was a waste of good gemstones, Mint." Mint, the catgirl and leader apparent of the Fangs, nods in agreement. "Truthfully, you are right Grandpa. It was an expensive bit of information, but I'll know better to rely on undead against them in the six versus six."
Aware again of the Sea Dragons, she scowls, and tosses Rill a small bag of gold. "I would have restored any damage inflicted by the shadows. Please take this as compensation for usage of your wand."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Thursday January 30th, 2020 7:45:11 AM "I may be mistaken, but aren't combats outside of the tournament frowned upon? Something about trying to kill another competitor is means for immediate disqualification?" Tahni looks directly at the Fangs and then to the monks "They were dealing lethal damage and inflicting real wounds. Seems pretty blatant to me. If not, are we permitted to summon creatures of our own to attack them while they sleep? See how they fare and all? Attacking someone outside of the tournament is either allowed or it isn't, so which is it?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 156/169 - AC 33/20/30 - SR 20 - CMD 27 Thursday January 30th, 2020 12:05:36 PM "See, this is why I'm more of dog person."
Rill looks flatly at this person they referred to as Mint. "Listen Grizabella, you can keep your gold. But I think my friend Tahni here has the right of it. We operate under rules and order, and the Chancers have clarified that this competition has rules. I'm guessing that that your little stunt has disqualified you.
"It's strange indeed that the Chancers would throw such a lavish party and not show up, but let's see if they can spare a moment of their time."
Rill pulls the little summoning button out of his pocket and pushes it. Assuming an image of Heather appears, Rill inform her of what happened and ask her where the Chancers are.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 36/43, channel 5/7) Thursday January 30th, 2020 4:14:36 PM
Terser is offended, but not at all surprised, that someone would test them like this. Even the use of consumables seems negligible, as they probably have enough extra laying around to make it through any battle coming up.
Still, he's more concerned with other things, and grabs several tankards before going off to find a quiet spot on the beach to chat.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday January 30th, 2020 5:48:00 PM
Saddened of the opponent's tactics to learn the strengths of the Seadragons Aex leans up against Leafy. This evening has lasted long enough for her...
"I'll save one of those sunbeams just for him..." Aex whispers in her companion's ear. Leafy simply nods.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Thursday January 30th, 2020 6:18:00 PM
Bralin has another drink.
Rill has this well in hand, and so, he awaits further developments.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday January 30th, 2020 7:10:19 PM "You could have just asked me to spare. I'm always up for a good sparing match." Fang points out reasonably. "Heck if you really want to know that much then I'll still spare you as long as other folks are around to watch for any more shenanigans."
DM Ken: Dinner AND a Show Whitesands Beach Thursday January 30th, 2020 8:55:58 PM
A few of the Fangs shuffle at the thought of disqualification, and some of their bravado falters. The old bear seems about ready to say something when a procession of torches and can be spotted snaking its way down the beach path from the village.
Mint shrugs. "We will see, but I have a feeling that we will be just fine.And I suspect our hosts and guards, human or otherwise, have more important things to worry about than a little bit of rrroughhouse between packs. Of course, you are free to find someone with whom to lodge a complaint."
In time, the procession of torches makes its way to the beach.
The Chancers team, as well as many more of the organisations members, are pushing a large .. something.. under a black sheet down the beach. The wheel it into place, and stop and look around. There's some apparent confusion.
---------------------------------
"Uh, sorry. We thought that .. uh.. things would be happening and we just kinda sneak this into place for a big reveal after a battle.", says a fat man in a jacket much too tight. "There .. is.. a battle?"
A dog-hybrid beastfolk answers.
"There WAS a massacre, but that's over. Dragons won, less than five minutes." He sips his ale. "Less than one minute."
Crestfallen, the fat man hands a bundle of gold coins over to one of his fellows. In fact, it seems the whole lot of them are either giving away or receiving coins. When done, they again remember they have a crowd. Some of the lesser teams are also beginning to crowd in.
"Uh! Ah! Ladies and gentlemen, we now present to you the odds for tomorrows placings! Bets will be open from tonight, until tomorrow after the Parade of Champions and right up until the start of the Gauntlet!"
With a flourish, he pulls the heavy cloth off of the board.
-----------------------------------------
There are seven premier teams listed. Two from the Sea Dragons numbers, and one each from the Sapphire Seven, The Talons of Aisildur, the Fangs of the Beast, the Last Whisper, and Dragon Sound. Then there are thirteen other entries from the lesser teams,.
Each team has betting odds for a first place finish listed next to them. At the top of the list is the Sea Dragons, which are an overwhelming six to one favorite. In short, betting six gold on them nets one back in return if that particular team completes the gauntlet the quickest.
In order, the odds are..
Dragon Consortium A( Jozhur Fang Tahni). 6 to 1 Dragon Consortium B( Rill, Terser, Bralin). 5 to 1 Dragon Sound. 3 to 1 Last Whisper. 2 to 1. Sapphire Seven. 1 to 1. Fangs of the Beast. 1 to 1.25 Talons of Aisildur. 1 to 3. The 1%. 1 to 5.
From there, there's a number of lesser teams listed, each of which are an astounding 1 to 10 payout.
---------------------------------
"Since this is a single entrant event, with no direct competition, there are no betting restrictions. You are free to bet for whichever team you think will clear the Gauntlet the quickest.The maximum betting for this round is 100,000 gold pieces."
With that, the paymaster takes a sheet of paper and begins to track some betting.
DM Note: Feel free to risk big here. I conferred with Jerry in this module, and given the nature of the Chancers, a LOT of money could change hands this module. You are all on an upwards path to 20, and your WBL will skyrocket as a result. You could make, or lose, a lot of gold on an individual level here. Point being, the gold earned here will eventually fit into your WBL, but as of right now, we don't care how much or how little you have coming into or exiting this module.
Rill (MarkB) HP 156/169 - AC 33/20/30 - SR 20 - CMD 27 Thursday January 30th, 2020 11:13:32 PM "Construct monk followers of Domi that we are not allowed to destroy. Construct competitors we cannot attack. A competing team that is allowed to summon undead to attack us with permission from our hosts. This place is paradise for a cleric of Gargul.
"All we need to make this complete is a bunch of elves spouting poetry to teach crocheting to our dwarves.
"I'm gonna go talk to Crall."
Rills still not sure why Heather didn't respond when Rill pushed her button. He wanders over to the Sapphire Seven to talk to Crall and his friends.
"So, Crall. How are you? Does this place make any sense to you?"
DM Ken: Dinner AND a Show Whitesands Beach Thursday January 30th, 2020 11:33:01 PM
Heather didn't respond because the DM missed the pushing of the button. Her answers would be.
"Oh my! I can't believe that happened! I'll let someone know right away."
and..
"Well actually, they are on their way there right now to open day ones odds."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Friday January 31st, 2020 4:22:14 AM "Oh, we will see" Tahni says quite plainly. She has already started thinking about ways to respond to their actions.
Tahni isn't at all happy with the Fangs. Summoning undead was almost always an evil act, and to do so simply to play games was reckless and ... well ... she can't find the right word to describe how bad it is, but it's pretty bad! She looks over Mint to try and see a holy symbol of some kind. If she is a follower of Marteus there might be a problem. In fact, she looks over all of the Fangs for signs of holy symbols, spell component pouches and weapons.
Fortunately the Chancer's team has arrived to help break things up.
Tahni decides she wants a little more information before making any bets, so tries to get the attention of the fat man "I'm going to assume that there will be one contest each day? Tomorrow being the Gauntlet. Will all teams be competing at the same time or one after the other?"
She looks over the board to take note of the names of each team member that will be participating. She wants to start putting names to faces. She tries to work out the name of Cat Girl 2 - the one who pretended to like her. Who knows? Maybe she really does like Tahni? Although the feelings are clearly not reciprocated.
Tahni looks over her gear and makes sure nothing has been stolen or taken by that Cat Girl.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Friday January 31st, 2020 4:43:40 AM
Fang shrugs and goes back to eating. The whole thing just seemed silly and stupid to her. She considers betting, but since betting on herself actually loses gold and she doubt they'll lose she doesn't bother.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 36/43, channel 5/7) Friday January 31st, 2020 12:09:19 PM
Terser notices that his sister's team isn't listed on the board as a favorite. He's a bit surprised, especially with the bag of tricks that she probably has ready to respond to any skill. He drops a 5,000 gp bet on I, Construct before heading off for the rest of their conversation.
Rill (MarkB) HP 156/169 - AC 33/20/30 - SR 20 - CMD 27 Friday January 31st, 2020 1:19:04 PM
Since Heather has indicated that these folks that brought the betting table are in fact representatives of the Chancers, Rill will excuse himself from the Sapphire Seven.
"You may want to stick around for this Heather. I'd certainly value any guidance you may have."
Then he will address the ones that brought the betting table.
"Greetings gentlemen. Before you start taking bets, I'd like to know what the rules are about one group attacking another outside of the competitions. It may affect your odds because I'm trying to figure out if the Fangs have disqualified themselves. And if indeed such attacks are allowed, well, the Sea Dragons may need to consider how we choose to respond to the Fangs' unprovoked attack, or any other such attacks. We haven't yet discussed this among ourselves, so your answers will be very helpful going forward."
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp 3 STR damage d20+26=41 ; Friday January 31st, 2020 8:01:37 PM
Jozhur glares at the beast folk group, shaking his head in disapproval.
He has no reaction to the announced odds. It's just more reason to rig things against them so a team with lower odds can win. The Sea Dragons would have to watch their backs and he is starting to think most anything goes here.
Is there any knowledge of where this obstacle course is setup? If not, Jozhur will use his armor to fly up high and look for it, after the ceremony.
Perception: 41
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Friday January 31st, 2020 8:43:59 PM "Also, are teams allowed to switch competitors prior to the challenges, or is it that once betting has started there are no substitutions?"
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Saturday February 1st, 2020 10:22:18 AM
Bralin places his mug on the table, and stands. Addressing Mint, but taking in the rest of the favorites, he replies.
"It may be we misunderstood the rules. It may also be we misunderstood the Chancer's ability or interest in enforcing rules. What is done has been done. I will concede the point.
However, we shall make ourselves plain. Should anyone launch another attack on the Dragons, or any other innocents, outside of the proscribed competition, the survivors will be turned over to whatever authority we deem fit to receive them."
Bralin sits back down, and has another drink. Note only Dragon Song was diverted away from the beach, he points out to his comrades. They may prove our only allies
The dwarf considers betting, but he is confident Jozhur, Fang, and Tahni will emerge victorious. And betting against himself leaves a sour taste. Bralin will await another round.
What is 'crochet'? he wonders.
DM Ken: Dinner AND a Show Whitesands Beach Saturday February 1st, 2020 2:40:47 PM
OOC: Next post will come Monday! Sorry for the short post week. Sadly, that will happen from time to time in tax season, as I'm a tax guy.
Also OOC: To explain the betting, some folks are under the impression you lose money on yourself. To explain, at 6 to 1 odds, betting 600 gold on the Dragons means that you put 600 upfront. If you win, you get back your 600, plus 100 for winning.
DM Ken: Dinner AND a Show Whitesands Beach Monday February 3rd, 2020 2:09:22 PM
----Responding to a lot of conversations here! Sorry if I miss a thread! ----
Rill is suddenly aware that this island is just a little bit anathema to his sensibilities. Constructs, undead, and foes he can't smite have him at unease. He makes his way to Crall.
"It makes sense, but it isn't honorable. We weren't privy to this plan, Master Rillet. We.."
Rill then excuses himself and makes his way to the Chancers and leverages his accusations against the Fangs. The Chancer men look up at the odds sheets, and back down at each other. Finally Kale steps out from the herd of confused and unsure men.
"Well Rill, I've got to say that think you are over-reacting a bit! Think of the fans! Think of the show! Think of the bets! Most of the teams here think themselves best of the best, but of course, we've all heard of the Dragon Consortiums access to the most powerful heroes on the planet, I'm not surprised that someone gave you a little test. More than one team wanted to see what you've got, and more than one of us wanted to make bets on it."
He immediately waves away the idea of disqualification.
"Since we were assured the undead were under complete control, we don't consider it a malicious attack. But if it helps, we don't mind making it a rule from here on out." Climbing up on the table, Kale raises a torch in the air for effect. "From this point forward, attacks against other teams are strictly prohibited! Any team caught engaging in such activity will have to forfeit one member of their team from the team battles for each occurrence!"
Considering it settled, he hops down and starts mingling yet again.
Tahni is certain nothing has been stolen. She hasn't heard the names of the cat girls, other than Mint. She's aware of "Grandpa", as well, the old bearfolk addressed by Mint. Speaking of Mint, she searches for a holy symbol, and finds nothing in particular representing a Woldian god.
If she speaks or understands High Woldian however: Highlight to display spoiler: {she understands that the symbol seems to be a combination of "Life and Death" glyphs. }
Fat man answers her question. "Its not an event per day, some of them are spaced out to allow time for some healing and decisions. There's also a lot of lower team preliminaries to handle. The Gauntlet is tomorrow, along with the parade of teams, where everyone is introduced to the spectators. I'll give some info on the Gauntlet in just a moment."
Tahni can safely interpret that to mean that soon she will have names and at least some basic information on all the teams and their members. She is also informed that once the betting is started, the teams are locked.
So at this point, only the martial and magical challenges are available for substitutions.
Fang is ambivalent. This is all dumb, but at least there's food. Bralin is very matter of fact in his statement about further attacks, and very clear. More than one member of a team looks to their team leader. All is silent until another round is ordered, and delivered.
Terser wants to bet on I, Construct. However, he finds out that they were disallowed from competing in the Gauntlet.
"There's a lot of stuff there that constructs are immune to outright. It was decided to be an unfair advantage." , he's told. "Would you like to bet elsewhere?"
On the beach, Lana pushes Terser a little in conversation.
Jozhur had some misgivings. He is informed the Gauntlet will take place in the arena. If he wants to scout after the ceremony, which is turning out to be something of a misnomer, he can either leave now on his own or he can wait till things are done.
The Chancers themselves seem to have somewhat sour dispositions. What they thought would be a lot of fun and joviality had turned into something quite different. Finally, one of the members of their administrative group steps forward.
"So, about tomorrow. Here's the final details you'll need referring to the Gauntlet."
He pulls a parchment and begins to read.
"The Gauntlet is an interconnecting series of five rooms. Each room has a unique challenge associated with at, as well as at least one enemy monster. The goal of the gauntlet is to proceed from the first room to the end of the fifth room as quickly as possible. Defeating each enemy is not necessary, though if they are able, undefeated enemies may chase you as far as one room from where they were encountered"
He flips a sheet back, and starts on another.
"1. There are no magical items allowed, at all, in the gauntlet. This includes magical items locked away in inter-dimensional spaces that might be brought in later via spell or ability.
2. Contestants will be fully dispelled before entry. Dispellers will strip all items of their magical properties, as well as dispel any in-place magical effects prior to your run. The effect will last about 12 hours. You are of course, free to reapply your spells once your run begins. If you wish to spend time using spells such as magic vestment or magic weapon, that is fine.
3. No spells that grant ethereal forms, flight, or teleportation are allowed.
4. Teams will enter one at a time, and will not directly compete against each other. This isn't a combat trial. While a team is in the gauntlet, other teams will be kept in a holding room to prevent getting unfair information about the challenges.
Any questions?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 156/169 - AC 33/20/30 - SR 20 - CMD 27 Monday February 3rd, 2020 5:04:31 PM
Rill regards Kale for a bit, his mouth a flat line as he holds back several comments. Finally he says, "Thank you Kale. It's good to know that the Chancers were made aware before hand of this undead attack against members of the the Dragon Consortium, and that you had no objection. That is useful information going forward."
Rill will then cast Detect Evil, taking a few moments to determine if there is evil within the 60' range of the spell - especially with regard to the other teams. He will silently share what he learns with the other Sea Dragons.
He intends to continue his conversation with Crall if things settle down.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 36/43, channel 5/7) Monday February 3rd, 2020 5:08:04 PM
Terser opens up to his sister. Yea, when Dad decided I wasn't living up to his expectations, he cut me off. One morning after sleeping one off, I woke up in the temple of Domi. The priest had to explain it to me. The old man didn't even have the stones to tell me to my face.
Anyway, with no money, no booze (no good booze at least), and nowhere to go, I tried. But even the priests knew I didn't really belong there. They found me a home with a group that traveled the Scab, stamping out cultists and undead. Tahni was one of them - she's the closest thing I have to family, at least that I knew of. I'm glad to hear you didn't forget about me.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Monday February 3rd, 2020 6:35:13 PM
Fang is still not caring about other teams and silly shenanigans they might be up to. "I'll review my spell list. It sounds like if we can just immobilize or impede enemies we can just go right past them."
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Monday February 3rd, 2020 6:57:05 PM
Bralin drinks his ale, listens, and drinks some more.
Plans and ideas filter through his head, as he contemplates the task before him.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday February 3rd, 2020 7:06:53 PM
On the one hand Aex would have loved entering the battle already they next day, on the other she is pleased she does not have to yet. It might be a good chance to keep an eye out on the public.
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp 3 STR damage Monday February 3rd, 2020 7:46:55 PM
With the Chancer's reassurance of there being no further shenanigans, Jozhur is content to sit and sip some ale. He refrains from betting on this event. He thinks the other DC team has just as good of odds as his, so those given odds seem like a bad deal.
He will go try to chat with the Sapphires if there is an opportunity.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday February 4th, 2020 5:31:02 PM
checking in
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+20=37 ; Tuesday February 4th, 2020 6:28:26 PM
So the Fangs get away completely free and now the party aren't allowed to respond in kind. Doesn't sound particularly fair. Although he did say any team caught attacker others would suffer for it. Tahni is still not happy with the Fangs, and this little technicality sits with her for a while. Is it worth doing something - nothing harmful - to the Fangs?
She's completely with Rill "Feels like things are being stacked against us in the background and we're sitting here not allowed to fight back. I'm liking this place less and less. I think Kale here is withholding things from us"
Money seems to be the key here. Tahni leans in close to Kale so that only he and Rill can hear them over the crowd "Kale. If things don't start making sense around here, if things aren't made right and fair, then who's to say we won't start sharing information and tactics with others here? Perhaps even lending them equipment? That would have terrible effects on the betting odds here, wouldn't it? You may have placed thousands on the Fangs to beat the 1%, and here we go gifting the 1% the opportunity to win. It would be terrible if this were to happen against all the bets that you personally have made. Then again, what if we did it so that your bets always won? I wonder how others would view that. So how about you tell us about all that is going on around here, and when you were made aware of the Fangs planned attack on us? Since you have the power to make declarations here, perhaps you can also think of a way to penalise the Fangs for what has happened? Perhaps a few minutes handicap before entering the Gauntlet?"
She doesn't like acting like this, but it seems better than casting any mind controlling spells.
-------------------- Intimidate: 37 (1 Base + 19 Moment of Prescience + 17 roll)
DM Ken: Dinner AND a Show Whitesands Beach Tuesday February 4th, 2020 9:25:16 PM
Rill's conversation with Crall picks up where it left off.
"You mentioned needing our support, perhaps? What has you troubled, Dragon? Also, please note that we are under some very strict rules on when we can interfere with an issue not under contract. One may have to be drawn up."
----------------------------------------
Tersers conversation takes a turn he might not have expected.
"You keep calling them your only family. They aren't. Join with me instead. I can give them a construct of their choice, and you can team with me in this competition. How about it?"
She smiles, but its sad. She's clearly expecting to be turned down.
-----------------------
Fang considers her spell-list. She should probably look for spells that help with mobility, disable foes, or help with problem solving. While she sits alone and uninterested, she notices a small field mouse scampering along under the table, looking for bites.
---------------------
Aexana considers how to handle the next day. There were plenty of things to observe. Little was known about the construct monks, and no one had really taken the time to study one. There were also the Last Whisper... the first they would see them was the parade tomorrow. Also, what was that beetle crawling on Leafy just now? It was purple and green, with a shiny shell.
------------------------
Jozhur seems less bothered by events than his fellows. He finds his way back to the Sapphire Seven. Crall is engaged with Rill. The rest all seem available.
-------------------------
Tahni decides that if its not even stevens, its not going to fly. She uses the threat of money to try and force him into reconsidering the no-punishment stance.
She manages to force him into offering limited assistance. His face reddens, and for a moment his hand rests on the hilt of a weapon. When she's finished, he hisses a whisper back. "Why are you being so petty?! Are the great dragons so fragile that a harmless stunt is enough for them to put hundreds of thousands of coins at risk, spoiling the fun for bettors here and spectators who had no knowledge of the stunt at all?"
He kicks sand, then spins in a circle and kicks the bottom of the nearest table, sending drinks and food flying. Like a child in a tantrum he stalks away, then realizes he can't risk what Tahni is threatening, and stomps back. "Fine. Mint casually asked us what the official penalty, if any would be, for the stunt once she saw the Dragon Consortiums name hit the roster. She only wanted to see how strong you were, and we wanted to make some bets among ourselves and the other guests. So we told her that as of now, there wasn't anything officially on record. I don't know what else you think is -going on around here.-" He thinks for a moment, then finally adds. "I can't add minutes to anyone's time. I don't control anything, since I'm on a team. Finally, even if I could, the gauntlet is expected to be cleared in less than five minutes, easily. Adding a few minutes handicap would ruin too much. What I can do is get you personnel files if you need them. I have access to the stewards room where all the team research is kept. Is that enough for you to put away your threats?"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d6=4 ; Tuesday February 4th, 2020 10:18:05 PM
Tahni takes a deep breath "Right. As long as there are no more attacks or attempts to hinder us, then I think the matter is closed. I don't want to have a look at any personnel files. That would be just as unfair to others. I don't want that. I want things to be even. That's all. But now that you mention them, has anyone accessed ours? Have any of the other teams seen them?"
-------------- Intimidate duration: d6=4. 40mins of helpfulness
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday February 5th, 2020 7:40:13 AM
Fang idly feeds the mouse some crumbs and looks over at the Fang group again. Seems the rest of the party is rather upset with them over the fight, though no one got really hurt so she isn't really bothered. Her gaze falls on the white ratfolk and she wonders vaguely if she's from a related tribe from her long lost one. She still fails to notice how similar in appearance they are.
"Anyone have thoughts or suggestions on what spells I should bring?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 36/43, channel 5/7) Wednesday February 5th, 2020 12:33:40 PM Don't get me wrong. I'm thrilled to find out that I didn't lose my entire family. But I can't turn my back on them either.
And one of my friends is having enough moral dilemmas right now with all the constructs and undead as it is. He's a follower of Gargul, and I know he wouldn't appreciate a golem teammate.
But what's interesting, I keep hearing that the grand melee is 6v6? It sounds like one of us is going to have to sit out anyway. Maybe that can be me, and I'll cheer you on from the stands. I can guarantee you'll hear me over the roar.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday February 5th, 2020 6:28:13 PM "Tomorrow is a big day. A good night sleep is going to be paramount. So let's call it a day...
Anything be can do to protect ourselves from being killed during our sleep?!?"
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Wednesday February 5th, 2020 6:29:31 PM
Bralin sits next to Fang, swigging from his flagon while considering the beastfolk's question. Soon enough, the dwarf is rambling.
"Spells for combat and mobility, I suspect. They said no flight, but Air Walk or Water Walk or Freedom of Movement? For combat, Shield of Faith, Magic Weapon, Align Weapon. Sanctuary? That might prove useful. Attributes, such as Bulls Strength, Cats Grace."
Bralin thinks some more. "My spell casting power is not strong, so I shall concentrate on those that benefit myself over attacking spells."
Rill (MarkB) HP 156/169 - AC 33/20/30 - SR 20 - CMD 27 Wednesday February 5th, 2020 10:30:19 PM
Rill speaks quietly as he responds to the half-orc. "Crall, I can respect the limitations of life as a mercenary. I only mentions this because my divinations and contacts suggests there may be more here that just a completion. I just wanted to give other honorable competitors a heads-up. Keep your eyes open. And if things go really badly for some reason it may benefit us both to help each other out."
----------------------- Responding to Fang and the others silently, "Air Walk would probably be a good idea Fang, since they only disallowed spells for teleportation, ethereal travel and flight. Air Walk is none of there. Also, I have an ability that allows short dimenstional hops, but it does not require casting a spell."
DM Ken: Dinner AND a Show Whitesands Beach Wednesday February 5th, 2020 10:33:34 PM
Tahni sees some of the rage go out of Kales eyes.
"No, I don't think so. They are all locked away and not even public knowledge." He looks back towards his fellows, seeing if anyone is seeing him looking so cowed. "I'll take my leave now, Dragon."
---------------------
Fang feeds the mouse, the looks for the other ratfolk. She recalls seeing her scurry away as soon as the two noticed each other. She's no longer here. She chats with Bralin about spell selection for tomorrow. His suggestions are all great ones.
-----------------------
Lana stands up and sighs. Speaking to Terser. "There's no way the Grand Melee won't have the entire team from the consortium. I bet you'll all be there." She looks away at the sea. "Like the family you are."
(Your DM is used to having a 6 person party. The melee is in fact all of you.)
---------------------
Aexana asks a great question. Would they be safe at night? Probably. No one would want to risk dealing with penalties in the melee. She decides its time to call it a night.
-----------------------
The night is starting to drag, and Aexana seems willing to excuse herself. The Fangs too, seem to realize the night holds nothing new. Mint gives a few commands.
"Mirri, Kirri, lets go. We need to find Claw and prepare for tomorrow. What about you, Granpda?" The old bear considers the question, then drains his cup. He gestures at the dogfolk as well.. "We're comin."
Other teams begin packing up. Soon, its only Dragon Sound, Lana and her constructs, and the Sapphire Seven.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday February 6th, 2020 7:45:20 AM
Fang's ear perks up at the name mentioned. Huh, what an amusing coincidence.. With a stretch and a yawn she heads off to bed.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 36/43, channel 5/7) Thursday February 6th, 2020 11:28:31 AM
Terser stands up with his sister and offers his forearm. My family isn't limited to just those that I'm currently traveling with. There have been many others that have come in and out, but I don't love them any less for their path diverging from mine. And now that our paths have come back together, I'd love to be part of yours again.
He gets ready to rest for the evening, but he'll ask Tahni about methods he may be able to use to contact his sister in the future, so he doesn't lose touch for so long again.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Thursday February 6th, 2020 6:14:09 PM
Tahni nods farewell to Kales and then heads to bed with the others. She will have a good think about ways to help Terser.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday February 6th, 2020 6:16:07 PM
Aex yawns and waves goodbye to anyone still outside. She goes to bed. Leafy though never sleeps. Before going to be the little greenmage asks Leafy to keep an eye out of things during the night. And so Leafy does... he slowly and quietly patrols the area. Now he looks at Aex's room... then he goes to check who else is still outside. Then we walks back... next he casually goes to check the battle arena for the next day... and so on...
Rill (MarkB) HP 156/169 - AC 33/20/30 - SR 20 - CMD 27 Thursday February 6th, 2020 7:34:14 PM
Rill speaks quietly as he responds to the half-orc. "Crall, I can respect the limitations of life as a mercenary. I only mentions this because my divinations and contacts suggest there may be more here that just a completion. I just wanted to give other honorable competitors a heads-up. Keep your eyes open. And if things go really badly for some reason it may benefit us both to help each other out. Also, is you have any adherents of Gargul in your group, it may interest you to know that many of the monk guards here are actually constructs of some sort."
----------------------- Responding to Fang and the others silently, "Air Walk would probably be a good idea Fang, since they only disallowed spells for teleportation, ethereal travel and flight. Air Walk is none of there. Also, I have an ability that allows short dimensional hops, but it does not require casting a spell. So it does meet the limitations set by the Chancers."
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Thursday February 6th, 2020 8:15:12 PM
As the festivities reach their conclusion, Bralin raises his flagon toward the bearfolk, and drains it in unison with Grandpa.
The dwarf rises, and heads to bed.
DM Ken: Dinner AND a Show Whitesands Beach Thursday February 6th, 2020 9:07:42 PM
Sensing the night nearing its end, Crawl gets up and stretches.
"If its a warning from the Consortium, I promise we take it seriously. If I see anything, I'll let you know. The construct thing is .. unsettling. One of our number picked up on it right away. I wouldn't call her an aderent of Gargul though." He looks amused. "Closer to the exact opposite I reckon."
--------------
Lana doesn't really respond. Its clear she dealing with something internally. She shoots Terser a glance before walking off down the beach, quickly flanked by her small army of constructs.
"I was ready to storm away mad, Terser, and treat this like an ultimatum. Instead, your kind words have moved me. So instead of a bitter adversary, you can treat me as a rival when we meet. I'll show you everything I can do, brother, and you'll be speechless."
She smiles as she waves goodnight and heads away.
"Keep the cask. I have more in the room."
The cask is made of fine oak, with iron bands carved from dwarven runes. Alchohal poured from it has a nutty taste, reminiscent of fall flavors used by dwarven brewmasters. Once per module Terser can drink from the cask during a period of rest, and it affects him as would a restoration spell. This is a fate item that only works for Terser.
-----------------------------------
The rest of the team pack up and head back for the night.
Please let your DM know if you are making any watches, standing guard, or just trusting Leafy. Please let me know if you are casting any divination spells, or casting something that lasts for a prolonged period of time.
Finally, this is the last post of this week, though I will respond to role-play and such. I will be submitting the next module tonight or early tomorrow, and passing off to Carl for the rest of tax season.
Thanks for the games!
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp 3 STR damage Thursday February 6th, 2020 10:27:56 PM
Jozhur is favor of setting up a watch, between the attack on the beach and the construct monks, he isn't entirely sure they are safe here.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Friday February 7th, 2020 5:55:45 PM
Aex trusts Leafy... she trusts her fellow Dragons... she does not trust anyone else around here. If guards are set, Aex will of course take her slot for staying awake. Leafy as said never sleeps so he'll stand guard all night.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 36/43, channel 5/7) Friday February 7th, 2020 11:43:45 PM
“Good thing words aren’t my specialty. Good night, Lana. Sister. “
Terser is probably going to stay up a bit to think about family and commitments and things he could have done differently. He may as well take a watch while he does so.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Saturday February 8th, 2020 8:18:32 AM
As discussed Fang changes out all her spells when she sleeps (new list is in same link). She volunteers to take last watch - she's used to getting up early and while the previous attack wasn't serious it's clear those in charge are incapable of ensuring their safety.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Saturday February 8th, 2020 10:47:35 AM
Bralin concurs with the plan of setting up a watch.
He suggests:
Terser and Leafy Tahni and Aexana and Leafy Bralin and Jozhur and Leafy Rill and Fang and Leafy
Then, he goes to sleep.
Rill (MarkB) HP 156/169 - AC 33/20/30 - SR 20 - CMD 27 Saturday February 8th, 2020 2:08:08 PM
Rill will head back with the others. He is fine taking a watch, and will use his ability to sense outsiders and constructs, as well as Deathwatch to see what he can see, both as we retire and during he watch.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+31=46 ; Sunday February 9th, 2020 5:29:16 PM
Tahni is happy to go with the watch order as set be Bralin. Having a dwarf in each of the late shifts makes sense because of their darkvision.
It will give her some time to start planning the spells she will prepare for tomorrow as well.
Perception: 46 + Arcane Sight + Darkvision + See Invisibility
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Sunday February 9th, 2020 8:32:10 PM
Fang agrees to the watch list and is up early enough to watch the sun rise.
DM Carl - Good Morning, Sunshine Monday February 10th, 2020 12:56:31 PM
It's a shame our heroes had to set a watch. Where's the sportsmanship? Where's the camaraderie? I mean sure, an opposing team did bait you into getting attacked by undead, but they weren't going to kill you. They just wanted to see what you're capable of. Why are you getting so upset about that?
Seriously, who thinks like that? What's wrong with these people?
Anyway, the night passes smoothly. The party outside never seems to stop, but it's far enough away to not disturb anyone's beauty sleep. It's a foggy morning, but that's not uncommon near the shore. It's warm enough to burn that marine layer off before noon. It's going to be a beautiful day.
Good thing too, because today is the first event of the Chancers' Invitational: The Gauntlet. First up on the agenda is a parade of all the event's participants. It will be the first time the party will have a chance to lay eyes on every participant, since Invitational rules clearly state all contestants must participate in the parade. The Gauntlet itself is held immediately after and will continue until late afternoon/early evening.
Fortunes will be won and lost today. Even from their secluded tent, there's a palpable energy in the air our heroes can taste. Discussions continue regarding tactics, including possibly using air walk or innate teleportation abilities. Skirting the rules on technicalities is expected at the Invitational, but your DM would encourage everyone to make sure they know the full wording before making such plans. No doubt Heather can assist with that.
Speaking of Heather? Where is she? A big day requires a big breakfast...
Jozhur (Brock) AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 33--HP 185/185 --Shadow Companion 92/92hp 3 STR damage Monday February 10th, 2020 2:16:11 PM
Jozhur prepares his gear for the competition immediately when he wakes up. All this hype and build up has managed to give him a case of the butterflies, not something he normally experiences.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday February 10th, 2020 4:20:37 PM
At dawn Aex is woken gently by Leafy... gently... sure... as gentle as a young tree companion could be when he whacks his branches on your head.
Never the less Aex peeks outside and smiles. What a lovely day! A perfect day for some entertainment. She mediates her spells and hurries for breakfast. She's starving... At the breakfast tables she mentally asks her friends: "Would altering the weather be considered cheating? Some extra wind for the other contestants when there's an archery contest? After all... those are all spells not aimed at our competitors right... could be freak occurrences from nature no?!?
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 36/43, channel 5/7) Monday February 10th, 2020 4:55:32 PM
Not for the first time, Terser is glad that he has little choice in the spells he can cast. Since they're going to be fully dispelled, hell wait until the beginning of the gauntlet to cast his usual Mind Blank.
He's used to a big magic breakfast from Rill, but every spell slot may count today and he'll be more than happy with whatever is provided by the guild.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, HP 251/251) Monday February 10th, 2020 6:41:19 PM
Bralin gets up, and spends some time thinking of the events at hand.
It doesn't take very long to notice that what is not at hand, is food.
"Heather!" he calls. Then, tries to recall how they were supposed to call her. Regardless, once she arrives, he inquires about food.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday February 11th, 2020 3:36:28 AM
Fang had spent the night thinking about unusual tactics they might employ and how finely they should stick to the rules. While her competitive side had warred with her sense of fair play and the less then sporting actions of the other competitors it had been her sense of duty that had finally decided the question. "Yes it would be cheating. No we shouldn't do it. As fun as competition is that is not our true purpose here. Our purpose is to deal with whatever hidden threat to the Wold exists here. Getting thrown out or disqualified from an event for cheating means we lose our chance to do so. We should make very sure we follow the rules to the letter until we figure out why we had to come here. Everything else is just a distraction from our purpose."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Tuesday February 11th, 2020 5:32:28 AM "If the rules aren't followed again by the other competitors and they are not punished then all bets are off, so to speak. We can't be expected to adhere to rules that are not respected or enforced"
She looks about and then to Rill "Is that construct monk still guarding our tent or has he been swapped out?
Rill (MarkB) HP 156/169 - AC 33/20/30 - SR 20 - CMD 27 Tuesday February 11th, 2020 11:49:32 AM
Rill will confirm that the construct monk is still there. In fact, he will use his Sense Outsider, Sense Construct and Deathwatch abilities, and will share the results with the party.
"It's odd that Heather is not here yet. Let's see if we can call her."
Rill uses the button on the device she left to summon their bikini clad butler. If she does not come, he will step outside the effect of the Mage's Private Sanctum he created earlier in the tent so the guard monks can hear him.
"Heather seems to not be answering her summons. Will one of you please to see that she is alright and bring her here?"
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