Questioning the stranger... Monday August 17th, 2009 10:30:17 AM
The group continues discussing their options, but the bitter cold, oppressive air and sheer exhaustion finally convinces them to return to the inn for a well deserved rest. They make it back safely and everyone returns to their rooms. After a good night (or should I say day's) rest, they wake up in the late afternoon. They notice a copy of the local daily paper shoved under their door, and Sir John goes and picks it up. With a grim expression on his face, he finishes reading it and then shares it with the rest of the group. "It seems that our killer has sent us his second clue. The front page headline article contains the killer's letter, titled, "Stars in the Darkness, Part 2"
Metal bleeds as she does. Rust runs from weeping wounds. Forgotten beasts of steel discarded after the war, or banished to this dismal ground by age and wear. Black snow dusts the muddy soil of the graveyard. Somewhere within this mournful field of rust and decay, the rancid stench of festering meat chokes the air. On a stretch of cold earth lies her steel prison filled with tainted flesh. She dies so slowly. I eat her living flesh while she looks on in stunned terror. Her death will be exquisite; I shall savor her pain and horror for days. Amongst these forgotten metal giants, no one hears her hoarse screams as I feast on her.
John continues, "We have 2 options as I see it. We can investigate this letter, or follow up on Mordreia and find out why she is acting so oddly."
OOC1 = Please give me Knowledge (local) or Knowledge (architecture/engineering) checks...
OOC2 = For now, everyone involved gets 1000 xps. Also, I messed up with PC names my last few posts for my paladin, and he is Sir John, not William. Sorry... ;-(
OOC3 = Remember, we need someone to take the next part of the module as DM. School is starting back up soon (Can't wait for those students to return) and I'm going to get slammed... Who wants to go next? I'll send you the next part of the module (I haven't read it yet, except for the letter John picked up) ASAP...
Marcasthai AC 19 HP 54/84 (SteveK) Monday August 17th, 2009 6:03:08 PM
Marcas' black eyes narrow in anger at the evil encased in the murderers letter, but he is still able to think. "It sounds as if he already has her prisoner, this slow killing. Yes, we need to get Mordreia, and also meet with a local constable to find out where a junk yard is?" The last statement is in a questioning tone as if the big minotaur doesn't quite believe his own statement.
Lucky AC18 HP46 Monday August 17th, 2009 7:32:20 PM
OOC:
DM 1: Steve K - January DM 2: Jonathan - Feb-March DM 3: Cayzle - April-May DM 4: Ken - June-Present
We REALLY need someone to step up. Marty just joined. How about it, Troy? Any chance you can run the next scene?
Cedric AC 20 HP 66/66 - Character Sheet Monday August 17th, 2009 9:59:46 PM
Cedric frowns as the letter is read over.
"It sounds as if there is a chance to rescue the person in the letter, if we can find them. I suggest we start looking for discarded war artifacts. They can not be too hard to find, truly? Let us go now, and ask around with haste."
OOC: I am currently on vacation, I wouldnt get a chance to even look at the module stuff until middle of next week. If that will be enough time, then I'm good for dming next.
Lucky AC18 HP46 Monday August 17th, 2009 11:43:26 PM
"Good idea, Old Man," says Lucky to Cedric. "You musta seen some war artifacts in your day. What did they look like? Anything like this?
The halfling flourishes the dagger he lifted from Mordreia.
"Anyone able to tell me anything about this? It came from the dancing girl. Is it magic?"
Speck AC18/19 HP:26/26 d20+3=8 ; d20+8=28 ; Tuesday August 18th, 2009 12:18:45 AM
Knowlege Local d20+3 = 8 (however, if this falls under Bardic Knowledge, it would be 13) Bardic Knowledge on the dagger d20+8= 28! (alright!)
Speck wakens, sleepy eyed, and yawns a big one. "I'm too sleepy to think straight," he complains. "And hungry."
He reads the note twice but says, "A junkyard for weapons? Would be odd. I'd think old weapons would be melted down for it's metal and remade. But I'm no warmonger, just a hungry hafling."
His ears perkup and his eyes widen as he sees the dagger. Inspecting it closely, he mutters, "Hmmm... I see."
OOC: you can private e-mail me what Speck deduces from the dagger or just post it in your post as if Speck blurts it out to everyone.
Marcasthai AC 19 HP 54/84 (SteveK) Tuesday August 18th, 2009 9:35:03 AM
The minotaur listens to his companions and they give him an idea of his own. "Perhaps it is something in the fires and wizard storehouses on the other side of the town." Marcas nods his head slowly, listening to his own words. "Let us talk to the constables office for a map and local information, and then see to Mordreia. After that, we see what we see."
Questioning the stranger... Tuesday August 18th, 2009 2:23:58 PM
Speck can't remember anything specific regarding the letter. However, he realizes Marcas' suggestion is wise and possibly someone in the watch (maybe the sergeant?) probably could help decipher the letter.
Speck then remembers that the group found several other items in their last encounter and after examining them, declares, "Hey, I figured out what these are too! They're a potion of protection from arrows 10/magic, a scroll of Pyrotechnics (lev 2) and a scroll of Deep Slumber (lev 3)."
(I'll assume he blurts it out to keep things easy ;-))) ) After examining the dagger, Speck says with an astonished expression, "This is a really powerful item! It's a +3 icy burst dagger!"
Jalros gets a puzzled expression on his face and says, "Wait a moment. I don't remember her having something like that before, and she was never one for fighting. She was better at hiding and running away, and it's not like her to have something that valuable."
(OOC = I can keep things going until Troy returns next week. The next step is pretty straightforward (I had to read a bit of it to see, but I'll play as if I don't know), so it won't be hard to catch up. Just let me know when to send it to you. It'll probably be a Word file, since I can't break up the pdf I have for the whole adventure. That way, I'll only send you the part you need for step 2, and keep the rest of the adventure a mystery... Thanks for agreeing to do this Troy, and thanks Cayzle for your help ;-) )
Lucky AC18 HP46 d20+5=13 ; d20+5=16 ; d20+5=20 ; d20+5=25 ; Tuesday August 18th, 2009 4:45:03 PM
"Sweet!" exclaims the halfling. "And if she came by it honorably, then I will of course return it to her. But my heart tells me that there is something fishy about this dancing girl. Personality Changes! Powerful Weapons! I'm still thinking doppelganger. Any way we could test for that?"
Lucky agrees that showing the letter to the seargeant would be a good idea.
Knowledge Checks in this order in case anything seems familiar ... maybe on doppelgangers or possession or magical control or anything ... Religion, Arcana, Planes, Geography ... 13, 16, 20, 25!
Marcasthai AC 19 HP 54/84 (SteveK) Tuesday August 18th, 2009 5:23:10 PM
Marcas nods and smiles; the smart small ones seem to be on the right track. The large minotaur uses his time inside to get clean, ensuring all the soot is out of his fur and his tabbard is presenting the best possible appearance for a Hand of Imod.
Speck AC18/19 HP:26/26 Tuesday August 18th, 2009 10:49:58 PM
Speck rubs his tummy, a sign that it is rumbling and in need of food. "A doppleganger? But what would a doppleganger benefit from impersonating a female dancer? One that is targeted for assassination? I'm inclined to think she has been magicked, and the killer doesn't know it, choosing her at random. Either way, removing this dagger, good going there Lucky, will make detecting magic on her a little eaiser. Wonder how many more of these things she has?"
To Mordreia's or to the Graveyard... So many decisions to make... Wednesday August 19th, 2009 2:11:49 PM
All Lucky can tell from the information he has is that all of the things he considered could be applicable (doppelganger, possession, magical control, etc...) The thing that bothers him most is why a simple exotic dancer would have such a powerful weapon. How could she even afford something that priceless, let alone know how to use it. And if someone had given it to her, why?
As Lucky thinks through the letter, he does remember that he saw an "equipment dump" on a city map in passing. He heard that it is a lonely patch of earth near a graveyard, called "Osgood's Graveyard." Jarlos doesn't remember much about the graveyard, but does know roughly how to get there.
With a shake of his head, he says, "I really want to return to Mordreia's, as I'm concerned about why she has such a weapon, and the reason behind her odd behavior. We should try to surprise her somehow, or at least search her apartment. If you're going to move on to the graveyard, I'm not going to go with you though. I love her and need to discover what is going on..."
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 Wednesday August 19th, 2009 6:51:23 PM
Ki, with sleep in his eyes, and hunger in his stomach, stands and listens to everyone and the conversation. Im thinking that Equipment yard is a good Idea, unless... Ki recites a part of the clue,
Amongst these forgotten metal giants, Forgotten beasts of steel discarded after the war, or banished to this dismal ground by age and wear
Do you really think its talking about Weapons? Metal giants, Forgotten beasts of steel.. Maybe we should find a place in this 'Gravyard' thats maybe been set aside for golems, catapolts, or other metal machinery weapons. I'd say rummaging about in a pile of swords and shields would be near useless. Ki thinks a bit more, sighing and rolling his bony hands through his black hair, contemplating where he thinks we should go next...
I think going to the dump would prove useless. IF the killer is describing where her tomb will be, he surely isn't residing there. Who would want to live in a place that smells like 'rotting flesh'? I think going to Mordreia's is a good idea. Sending some to search her place, and some to watch, and detect magic, on her while she is dancing.
Speck AC18/19 HP:26/26 Wednesday August 19th, 2009 9:27:01 PM
Speck looks over the note again. "Well, I don't know where this Thing lives now, but it seems clear from the note that the victim, Mordreia, will be encased in a metal box of sorts. She will be alive, but something in the box will be eating at her flesh. So this evil Thing won't be killing her with his own hands, but will put some creature in the box that will eat at her helpless body until she dies. This 'metal box', I presume will be at this graveyard of discarded siege machines. If, and I repeat 'IF' this graveyard is covered in soot. That probably won't be an issue though, seeing as the fire's done a good job of covering just about everthing with black soot."
"Can we go eat now? I probably should go back to the tavern. I think I can keep Mordreia busy enough to allow others, er, him," pointing at Lucky, "to search her place. Unless you trust two haflings all by themselves in a beautiful ladies room? Besides, she might get suspicious if i didn't show up. Need a strong arm, er hoof, to keep up the appearance of protecting her. Then the mage can do his thing while she's dancing."
Cedric AC 20 HP 66/66 - Character Sheet d20+19=21 ; d20+17=24 ; Wednesday August 19th, 2009 10:01:33 PM
Cedric thinks back over his knowledge of flora and fauna, trying to see if he can remember anything relevant about what could be 'eating' someone slowly. Some sort of fungus, or small animals or insects perhaps. It may provide a clue they can use.
After that, he heads to this graveyard with whoever is going.
OOC; Knowledge Nature: 21 Survival: 24
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 Thursday August 20th, 2009 1:13:06 AM
Ki looks at the halfling, and a small smile creeps in his face Well then little one, Id say your right, Rubbing his stomach himself, I say the horned one and Speck here, and myself go to the tavern she dances in. Grab a bite, and then I'll see if I can't find any magic on our mystery lady. While lucky, The elf points to the other halfling, drags at least one other person along with him to search the lady's apartment... I'd say Marc wouldn't be of much use there... He ends his statement, nodding his head at the minotaur. Better placed with the tavern goers like Speck said, to show alittle muscle.
Pondering the notes, and the rest of what Speck said, Ki, once again, rubs his hands through his black mane, Later tonight, with the cover of darkness, maybe we should check out this grave yard. We might could trap any boxes we find around, or set up some sort of watch to see who goes in and out. Surly the killer needs to set up his plan... Maybe we can catch him during his work? Any thoughts? Ki eyes Speck curiously.
Marcasthai AC 19 HP 54/84 (SteveK) Thursday August 20th, 2009 9:48:16 AM
It takes a moment or two to understand that Ki's reference to "the horned one" is in fact Marcas himself. The brown-furred minotaur blinks then rolls his small black eyes. So. Another one that doesn't use the proper usages for names. Or battle most likely, thinks Marcas. He sighs and shrugs. He has put up with Lucky and Speck so far, so one more shouldn't be a burden.
"It is a good plan, and Sir John can come with me for additional attention on us."
With that, the large minotaur is all ready to put plan into action.
To Mordreia's or to the Graveyard... So many decisions to make... Thursday August 20th, 2009 9:57:13 AM
Cedric can't think of anything fungus like that this would relate to, but senses that once they find out more about Mordreia, a trip to the junkyard would actually be a wise decision and at least could provide further clues. From his knowledge of nature, it is more likely that something metallic rather than natural is what the letter refers to...
(Waiting on a few others to post... )
Lucky AC18 HP46 Thursday August 20th, 2009 11:04:08 AM
"I love the idea of going to the weapon graveyard -- maybe I can find something we can use."
Captain Lucky pauses.
"But more important is that we NOT split up the party. The girls will still be sleeping, I think, until her performance. Let's go to this graveyard first, then to see the entertainer."
He expects everyone to obey him because he is after all, the leader, and the most handsome.
Lucky AC18 HP46 Thursday August 20th, 2009 11:05:43 AM
"Or all go to the girl, and THEN to the graveyard. So long as we stay together."
OOC: DM, please pick one or the other ... maybe by how the preferences are swaying? But feel free to move us along!
To Mordreia's or to the Graveyard... So many decisions to make... Thursday August 20th, 2009 7:01:31 PM
As the group ponders the various options, they decide to go revisit Mordreia before pursuing the 2nd clue. Everyone has had a chance to eat and sleep, and once they wake up refreshed, they brave the bitter cold and stormy weather once more (remember your saves...).
They finally end up at Mordreia's apartment in the early afternoon, and discover that she's at home. Her shift doesn't start until late evening, so they have some time to check on her. They go up the stairs to her door, and stand at the brink.
Do they knock and talk to her in a friendly manner or interrogate her? Do they demand to be let in and search her home? Do they try to sneak in and surprise her? There is a window nearby leading into a bedroom that is on a porch, easily accessbile from the stairs.
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 d20=7 ; Thursday August 20th, 2009 8:42:59 PM
Ki shivers as he walks down the wind biting streets in his cloak, cowl pulled low. Stamping through the snow, and up the lady's stairs to her door he thinks How should we go about this? Demand the lady's cooperation, most of these people are deputy's of some sort, I suppose it would actually work Ki leans down, rather far, to whisper to lucky, Maybe you should order her to allow you to search her place, your are a captian deputy... Say there is something missing and you have reason to believe its here. That would give us reason to search her place, and reason to question her about anything else we deem useful.
Speck AC18/19 HP:26/26 Thursday August 20th, 2009 9:46:09 PM
"Tact is what we need here," Speck whispers. "Lead her to believe we suspect nothing and perchance she will slip up somewhere. Simple questions as to her recent past can lead to questions about her time with Jalros that he can verify. It is too ealry to be direct. We haven't any solid evidence of anything."
Speck knocks on the door. "Mordreia? Speck here," he calls.
Speck AC18/19 HP:21(26)/26 d20+4=19 ; d20+4=9 ; d6=5 ; Thursday August 20th, 2009 9:49:57 PM
Forgot my saves.
Cold: d20+4 Fort DC15 = 19 good Soot: d20+4 Fort DC15 = 9, not good, d6 subdual dmg = 5
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 d20+3=12 ; d6=1 ; d6=5 ; Thursday August 20th, 2009 10:10:26 PM
AHH, didn't know the DC's and what not...
Marcasthai AC 19 HP 54/84 (SteveK) d20+11=24 ; Friday August 21st, 2009 9:06:30 AM
Keeping a winter cloak over his broad shoulders, Marcas keeps to the bottom of the stair in an attitude of watchful guardianship. His Ranseur in hand, he makes sure no one will even think of going to Mordreia's apartment while his companions are upstairs.
His tough training allows him to all but ignore the fierce cold and soot in the air.
..............
Fort Save: 24
Knocking on the door... Friday August 21st, 2009 1:39:37 PM
(Waiting on others to post...)
Lucky AC18 HP46 d20+9=15 ; d20+9=13 ; Friday August 21st, 2009 2:41:53 PM
Lucky agrees when Speck says, "Tact is what we need here."
"And I'm the tactiest one of us all!" Lucky adds.
He is eager to speak with the lady in question.
Saves: 15 and 13.
Speck AC18/19 HP:21(26)/26 Friday August 21st, 2009 11:23:07 PM
OOC: If i remember correctly, we had to make two saves, one for the cold and one for the soot (choking). The DC was 15 for each, fail you took 1d6 non-lethal damage. If you fail both, that would be 1d6 dmg each.
Knock, knock, who's there? Saturday August 22nd, 2009 9:24:34 AM
At the sound of Speck's voice, the group hears a rustling in the apartment. "Just a moment..." they hear in the background, and then she barely opens the door, her face peeking out with a worried expression until recognizing him. "Oh hello there... How can I help you .... Spock or Spook, wasn't it? Have you found whoever was stalking me? Is it safe now to go out?"
Cedric AC 20 HP 66/66 - Character Sheet Sunday August 23rd, 2009 2:07:46 PM
Cedric waits patiently while those planning on talking do so.
He nervously looks to the sky, clearly impatient to get to the graveyard.
OOC: You can send me the maps now: setanos at yahoo dot com
Marcasthai AC 19 HP 54/84 (SteveK) Sunday August 23rd, 2009 9:07:32 PM
Keeping a winter cloak over his broad shoulders, Marcas keeps to the bottom of the stair in an attitude of watchful guardianship. His Ranseur in hand, he makes sure no one will even think of going to Mordreia's apartment while his companions are upstairs.
His tough training allows him to all but ignore the fierce cold and soot in the air.
Lucky AC18 HP46 Monday August 24th, 2009 4:05:23 PM
Lucky lets Speck answer the girl. "Just get us in there so we can look in her eyes and see into her soul," he whispers to Speck. "It's your game, for now, my friend!"
Speck AC18/19 HP:21(26)/26 Monday August 24th, 2009 5:31:50 PM
"Er, Spock... Speck... whichever you like best," Speck blushes. "Nay, me Lady. I'm afraid it is not yet safe to venture much outside alone."
Speck reasons that, although they found one 'stalker', they haven't found the one who is the actual threat.
"May we come in? We won't be long, we know you must be getting ready for your performances. We just wanted to be here and escort you to work, but it's a bit chilly out here."
Knock, knock, who's there? Monday August 24th, 2009 8:51:48 PM
She frowns and says, "Well, my home is dirty, but if you are going to escort me, I might as well be hospitable. Wait a moment and I'll put something presentable on." She then closes the door, and all is silent...
(Listen checks please...)
Speck AC18/19 HP:21(26)/26 d20+7=20 ; Monday August 24th, 2009 10:52:22 PM
"Don't mind us, me Lady, we understand the difficultines of keeping a clean home in this messy weather. However we, er, don't mind waiting for you to ready yourself. We did come rather unexpected."
'Hmmm...'. Speck thinks that perhaps the lady may be trying to 'hide' something, as opposed to being rather modest. Putting his ear to the door, he tries to discern the meaning of the noises he hears.
Listen d20+7=20
Cedric AC 20 HP 66/66 - Character Sheet d20+15=33 ; Tuesday August 25th, 2009 7:52:59 AM
Cedric continues to wait by the door, turning his ear toward the entrance as he sees Luckly listening as well.
OOC: Listen: 33
Marcasthai AC 19 HP 54/84 (SteveK) d20+7=13 ; d20+1=16 ; Tuesday August 25th, 2009 11:38:25 AM
Down on the street, Marcas keeps his vigil in the snow at the base of the stairs.
Listen: 13 Spot: 16
Lucky AC18 HP46 d20+10=16 ; Tuesday August 25th, 2009 11:48:44 AM
Lucky strains to hear ... a 16.
Knock, knock, who's there? Tuesday August 25th, 2009 12:11:43 PM
Several members of the group (anyone w/ a listen over 15) hear some rustling inside the apartment, then what seems to be a window opening in the back of the apartment, some more sounds, a grunt that doesn't sound like Mordreia at all, a sound like someone climbing and then silence....
Speck AC18/19 HP:21(26)/26 Tuesday August 25th, 2009 8:18:39 PM
"We need to know who that is!" Speck whispers excitedly to Lucky and Cedric. "Cedric, can you do the dog trick and follow him, her, or it?"
Marcasthai AC 19 HP 54/84 (SteveK) Wednesday August 26th, 2009 7:23:22 AM
Down on the street, too far away from the door, Marcas keeps his vigil in the snow at the base of the stairs.
Cedric AC 20 HP 66/66 - Character Sheet d20+15=20 ; d20+15=16 ; d20+17=20 ; Wednesday August 26th, 2009 8:38:47 AM
Cedric nods. "I'll go look."
He shifts into dog form and goes searching around the back, searching for clues.
Lucky AC18 HP46 Wednesday August 26th, 2009 12:34:44 PM
As soon as he hears that grunt, Lucky says, "Hey! There's some tomfoolery going on here!"
He tries the door, and if it opens, rushes in.
Knock, knock, who's there? Wednesday August 26th, 2009 2:22:19 PM
Cedric moves around back, sniffing and trying to decipher what's occurring. When he comes around the corner of the rear of the building, he sees Mordreia hurriedly climbing down a rear ladder of the building. It appears she departed from a rear window of her apartment in a hasty manner... She has a worried and panicked expression on her face. She'll be down in about 2 rounds...
Lucky tries to open the door, but it is securely locked...
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 d20+4=6 ; Wednesday August 26th, 2009 10:17:06 PM
Not hearing the rustle and grunting noise inside, Ki sees Lucky try the door, and that it is locked. Here, the sorcerer mumbles, and swings his hands in quick but percise gestures, mumbles elven incantations and a golden string enters the keyhole* Its should open now, little master. In the mean time, I'll go help the dog. After casting his spell Ki rushes down the steps, around the back of the building, following the Cedrics 'dog prints' in the snow.
When Ki sees Mordreia climbing down the ladder he screams, attempting to startle the lady** Hey! Where are you going! Although his words came out significantly weaker than he had hoped, he still holds his glaive in his hand like a staff, and continues talking to the lady Havn't been here long, but Im pretty sure this is not how you treat your escorts, muchless deputy's of the city... And people trying to look out for your well being.
* Knock spell ** Intimidate: d20+4=6....
Cedric AC 20 HP 66/66 - Character Sheet Thursday August 27th, 2009 8:23:57 AM
Cedric barks loudly, trying to attract the groups attention. He moves to the base of the ladder she is climbing down, and readies to trip her if she tries to flee.
Marcasthai AC 17 HP 65/84 (SteveK) (Running) Thursday August 27th, 2009 10:25:36 AM
At the base of the stairs, Marcas sees Cedric in dog-form rush down. Looking up, Lucky tries the door and it looks like Ki is helping him. And then the barking begins around the building.
Hefting his Ranseur, Marcas runs through the snow and soot to follow Cedric.
Actions... Run: x4 speed = 80 feet per round, no dex bonus.
Lucky AC18 HP46 d20+9=13 ; d20+10=30 ; Thursday August 27th, 2009 1:09:45 PM
Lucky tries the door again now that the mage has had a whack at it. "Thanks," he says, as he rushes in. He looks around, trying to see who has gone down the window, and who was grunting, and who is in sight.
Spot 13, Listen 30! Nat 20!
Knock, knock, who's there? Thursday August 27th, 2009 7:05:40 PM (I sent it today, so let me know if you didn't get it ;-) )
Lucky rushes into the apartment, and notices at first that it seems to be a normal woman's apartment (furniture, pictures, etc). However, he goes into the bedroom and sees that there is a mix of women's and men's clothes of various sizes and colors. On the other hand, there are no valuables in sight, and it seems like whomever was there knew they might have to flee unexpectedly and wanted to be prepared... The only exit is a rear window, and he hears Cedric, Mordreia's and then an unknown child's voice...
(At the same time) Mordreia hears Cedric's shout, and with an angry look at him, continues climbing down the ladder. However, when he reaches there before her, she seems to make a quick decision... Suddenly, Mordreia morphs into what appears to be a little girl, who starts shouting in a petite voice, "Someone help me! These men are trying to hurt me! They're not deputies and are slavers! Please help me!" (She'll reach the ground next round)
At that, windows begin opening and people start looking to see what the commotion could be...
Speck AC18/19 HP:21(26)/26 d20=10 ; d20+7=20 ; Thursday August 27th, 2009 9:37:48 PM
Speck follows Lucky and takes in what he can as he rushes to the window. Darn window is human height! He helps Lucky over the window sill by linking the fingers of both hands so Lucky can step into the cup of his hands and thus get a good boost. He then tries to climb up himself.
OOC: If we need climb checks, Lucky will get a bonus. DC10 d20=10, Lucky gets a bonus of +2 in needed.
Speck's climb check, d20+7=20
He then sees the scene before him and whistles under his breath. "I trust Cedric," he manages to say.
OOC: is she still on the ladder?
Hey, where did Mordreia go? Who the heck is that girl? Friday August 28th, 2009 10:46:01 AM
Yes, she's on the ladder, and will be down in 1 round.
The ladder is easy to climb down, so just make a DC10 check, and you'll be OK...
More to follow once I see some other posts...
Marcasthai AC 17 HP 65/84 (SteveK) (Running) Friday August 28th, 2009 11:56:08 AM
Marcas continues to go around the building looking for Cedric the dog. At the girl's voice, his head whips up and he slows to a hustle, getting his battle instincts ready. "No slaver will capture a girl while I'm here!", he growls in his deep, gravelly voice.
Lucky AC18 HP43 of 46 Friday August 28th, 2009 8:14:48 PM
Captain Lucky rushes to the window and sees the little girl calling out so plaintively.
"Don't worry, lass!" he shouts. "We'll save you from the slavers! To arms! To arms! As chief of these deputies, I call on everyone to defend this child!"
He also takes a good look around for the dancer. "Where is Mordreia?"
He climbs out the window and down the ladder.
[Note: 3 hp nonlethal damage from cold]
0: Create Water, Resistance, Virtue, Read Magic, Purify Food 1: Sanctuary, Comp Lang, Inflict LW, Pro Evil, Pro Law 2: Lesser Restoration, Owls Wis, Find Traps, Spirit Weap, Shatter 3: Sum Mon III, Daylight, Remove Curse, Pro Energy
Current Luck Points: 6
Speck AC18/19 HP:21(26)/26 Friday August 28th, 2009 9:40:07 PM
OOC: Specks actions were to help Lucky up to the window sill and over quickly, so next round he will go out the window.
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 d20+6=19 ; Friday August 28th, 2009 9:55:04 PM
(I assume I Rounded the building last round, although you didn't mention me in you DM post...)
Watching Mordreia turn into the little girl, then the minotaur and a halfling look out the window. Telling everyone to protect the girl! what? I hope they trust me! Its Mordriea, some sort of shapechanging spell. The half-elf raises his hands to the windows and the forming crowd, NOT A LITTLE GIRL!*
After his attempt at calming the crowed, Ki weaves his inner powers, acting through quick gestrues when a bright golden flash and speckles of golden dust burst in the air before the child**
* Diplomacy: D20: 19 ** Daze spell: Will Negates, DC10+SL(0) + Cha )4) =DC 14
Hey, where did Mordreia go? Who the heck is that girl? d20=13 ; d20+3=19 ; Saturday August 29th, 2009 9:21:27 AM
The little girl reaches the ground, and continues yelling for help. However, some of the bystanders hear Ki'El's comments and are a little confused However, he seems to know what he's doing...
The arrival of other deputies seems to calm things down, and the sight of a no-nonsense minotaur leads the onlookers to find better things to do...
The daze spell appears in front of the little girl, but she manages to brush it's affects off. She looks around her and seeing people coming from the top and to the sides, as well as no help coming, gets a dejected look in her eyes. She crouches against the wall, morphs into a strong man, raises her hands in fighting position and stands, ready to defend himself...
Marcasthai AC 17 HP 65/84 (SteveK) (Running) d20+12=16 ; Saturday August 29th, 2009 9:36:07 PM
Marcas' eyes go wide as the little girl changes into a strong man. He slows and stops, lowering his ranseur, but keeping a wary eye. "I'm not sure what's going on here, but you better stay right there until we get to the bottom of this."
The words are polite, but also with the air that the deep, gravelly voice WILL be obeyed.
Intimidate: 16
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 d20+4=23 ; d20+3=16 ; d10=7 ; Sunday August 30th, 2009 3:49:33 PM
Ki holds his glaive across his body, ready to attack if need be, Listen, thing Yeild and this will be less harmful, for everyone. We have a few questions, and arn't looking to fight. If you just calm down and come with us, cooperate, this will be over painlessly and shortly*
Ki spreads his feet into a fighting stance, moves forward until he's able to reach the 'man' with his glaive (Im pretty sure that puts me about 10' from him) poised to strike if the man does anything other than surrender**. The alternative option Ki looks behind him, and above noting the group encircling the changling hehe, now that isn't looking good for you, now is it? The sorcerer grins, Hold onto yourself Ki... There is no reason to fight just yet. What? Kill this creature where it stands, its obviously not Mordreia. Elf what are you thinking? KILL IT!!! If Ki is disturbed by this innerbattle he doesn't show it execpt his changing facial features. A small smirk, a frown, a grin and a wicked-teeth showing smile.
* Diplomacy: d20 +4=23 ** Readied action: If the opponent does anything but surrender (intimidate us, cast a spell, turn to run, anything but surrender) Attack; 16 Dam: 7
Lucky AC18 HP43 of 46 d20+5=23 Monday August 31st, 2009 2:47:28 PM
Lucky perches halfway down the ladder. "Ha! A shapeshifter! I knew it!"
He calls down to the shifter, "We don't need to fight none. We just need some answers."
The small guy looks at Speck. He's got the silver tongue. What's he say? Diplomacy check to aid another to help Speck: 23. Or if Speck does not speak up, Lucky asks the fellow, "Come on, then. Tell us what you know and we'll go easy on ya."
To torture, or not to torture... That is the question... Monday August 31st, 2009 8:31:50 PM
The man looks with a fearful expression at the party members who are surrounding him... Finally, he signs in a resigned manner and morphs into a grayish, featureless figure... Sir John says in amazement, "I've seen those things before... They're called dopplegangers and they're viscous, deceitful creatures that have no honor. They are a disease that should be eradicated!"
The pitiful creature quails under Sir John's threats and whimpers, "My name is Vrinn and please, don't hurt me! I ran because I thought you were allied with the Raven and didn't want him to get me! You see, he captured me months ago and threatened to kill me if I didn't help him with some sort of plan. I don't know what he's planned, and all he told me to do was impersonate this Mordreia woman. He gave me her background, but little else. When I refused, he said he'd hurt me and my family. "
"We tracked her down a short while ago and then I took over her role. I don't know where the Raven took her or what his plans are for her. I'm just supposed to pretend I'm her... Please, don't tell him I told you!!!"
Speck AC18/19 HP:21(26)/26 d20+5=12 ; d20+13=24 ; Monday August 31st, 2009 10:46:21 PM
Sense Motive d20+5=12, drat!
"The Raven, eh?" Speck spits, as he settles on the window sill. "If you were doing your job, impersonating Mordreia, then why would the Raven be after you? Eh? Moren' likely you were set up. You were supposed to take her place, then to keep his secret, you were supposed to be killed, eh? But we caught on to his plan, you see. The only way you will escape death is by telling us everything you know about him. What he looks like, where he hides out, and so forth. As deputies, we have the authority to release you if you prove true to us. Otherwise you are dead, either by the gallows, guillotine, quartering, or worse, by the Raven.
"You got little time to tell us all you know."
Diplomacy d20+11+2=24
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 d20+2=22 ; Tuesday September 1st, 2009 1:52:53 AM
Lowering his glaive, reluctantly, Ki listens as the halfing starts his tounge lashing. A doppleganger, should have known. Who is the Raven I wonder? The Speck seems to know of him, thats a good thing. I'll ask later...
I'll be upstairs, searching the apartment for anysign of where Mordria is or if the Raven fellow has been there recently. I'll be of little use in a word-game. The elf then sneers at the doppleganger, points and says Your lucky, pitiful race your of... Too bad you can speak WIth that the half-elf turns and rounds the building, heading up the stairs into the apartment. Ki starts rummaging through everything he can possibly find. Dresser drawers, over turning the bed, closets, fire place. Everything*. Looking for anything at all that may have something to do with Mordriea being captured, where she is, where the 'Raven' is or if he's been here recently.
*Take 20 on a search check of the entire apartment.
If I can't take 20 then...Search Check: d20+2=22 (doesn't matter lol!!)
Marcasthai AC 17 HP 65/84 (SteveK) (Running) d20+7=13 ; Tuesday September 1st, 2009 8:56:13 AM
Marcas sees that Speck has the questioning in good hands, and so he fulfills his role by making sure there are no others sneaking up to the cornered doppelganger and the halfling. He stands guard, ready to repel attackers or to sieze an escaping prisoner.
Spot: 13
Cedric AC 20 HP 66/66 [Riding Dog]- Character Sheet Tuesday September 1st, 2009 9:13:36 AM
Cedric calms down after the creature surrenders. He, still in the form of a large dog, heels next to the minotaur, trying his best to look intimidating.
He thinks to himself Best stay in form, avoid giving away too much. This should be interesting
OOC: Sorry I missed posts, had emergency root canal on my wisdom tooth. Not fun.
Lucky AC18 HP43 of 46 d20+8=12 ; Tuesday September 1st, 2009 3:26:53 PM
"Torture? Torture? Who said anything about torture?!?" asks Lucky indignantly. This may come as a surprise, since no one has actually mentioned torture at all. Except the DM in his post title! Well, I guess emergency root canal does sound like torture, though.
Then Lucky grins and continues to try to help Speck in the talking part.
"You'd be best to listen to this good fellow. We can do this easy or we can do it hard. And I'm all out of easy."
Aid Another roll, with three luck points spent on the effort: a 12. That gives a +2 to Speck's diplomacy.
Note Well! -- Lucky's "Everybody's Friend" ability also gives a +1 to attacks, saves, and *skill checks* to all who wish him well within 20 feet. That's a +3 total bonus for Speck last round and this round, not a +2.
[Note: 3 hp nonlethal damage from cold]
0: Create Water, Resistance, Virtue, Read Magic, Purify Food 1: Sanctuary, Comp Lang, Inflict LW, Pro Evil, Pro Law 2: Lesser Restoration, Owls Wis, Find Traps, Spirit Weap, Shatter 3: Sum Mon III, Daylight, Remove Curse, Pro Energy
Current Luck Points: 7
To torture, or not to torture... That is the question... Tuesday September 1st, 2009 4:10:17 PM
Vrinn relaxes a bit when he realizes they really are deputies and not associated with the Raven.
"I'm not sure much about what I can tell you. He never told me his name, but he only came around at night. He wears black all the time, and has these horrible undead things as his guards... He threatened to let them kill me and then bring me back as a zombie or ghoul if I didn't tell him what he wanted... I don't know where he's staying, since he would come at night or send his undead accomplices. They usually blindfolded me if they took me anywhere, and all I know was that he'd take me into a room with a concrete wall, sort of like a prison. I never saw outside the room, but the screams... oh the screams that came from other cells... Men, women, children... So many people were screaming all the time and they just wouldn't stop .... It was horrible..."
"When he was done with me, he'd blindfold me and have me taken back to Mordreia's apartment. They took all my weapons and armor, except for my dagger. I usually carried it with me, but somehow misplaced it in the last few days. He said if I tried to escape or quit impersonating her, it would be all over... Once I was done impersonating her, he said he'd set me free and it was only supposed to be soon... I asked where she was once, but he smacked me and ordered me to never ask that again... I don't know what more I could tell you..."
Meanwhile, Ki'El finds nothing of interest. The apartment is filled with various clothes that Vrinn appeared to have used hiding out or appearing as men or women, including Mordreia. It's unclear where Mordreia went and if she left willingly or unwillingly. He finds nothing magical or hidden. It appears to be a simple apartment that Vrinn was occupying that had originally been Mordreia's...
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 Tuesday September 1st, 2009 4:25:11 PM
Ki pops his head out the window, Nothing up here guys... Just a bunch of clothes and some of Mordreias things. It seems our doppleganger can't figure out if he'd like to be a man or woman though... Hehe, a magical crossdresser, thats one for the books Ki smiles at his bad joke. Walks out of the apartment, back down the steps and rounds the building once more.
I say 'Mordriea' fails to appear tonight. We hide out in the apartment and have Vrinn here do the same. When the Raven comes to get him tonight, the Deputy's and there mage will meet him, for the last time I hope. Well?
Marcasthai AC 17 HP 65/84 (SteveK) Tuesday September 1st, 2009 4:42:17 PM
"Can we find out where Raven is without tipping our hand?", asks the minotaur. "If we let Modriea continue to play her part, we have a couple of days where we know what we know and the Raven doesn't know we know. You know?"
The minotaur shakes his head as if he confused himself.
"Perhaps a straightforward ambush is better."
Lucky AC18 HP43 of 46 d20+10=24 ; d20+8=14 ; Tuesday September 1st, 2009 5:18:35 PM
Lucky listens to Ki'El insult the shifter. The halfling mendicant asks the paladin, "Sir John, is it evil?"
Then Lucky pauses and shakes his head. He wriggles it around and back and forth and up and down. He taps himself lightly on the top of his head several times.
"I know I knew something ... something up here somewhere ... maybe I can jar it loose ..."
[OOC to DM: Highlight to display spoiler: {I'm assuming that a high enough Know Arcana check will let Lucky remember that doppelgangers can read minds. I'm going to make a check, and pump in five Luck Points. Hopefully that will be enough.}
Lucky strains his brain trying to remember ... with five Luck Points added in ... a 24 on the Knowledge check!
"If I recall correctly," Lucky says to the doppelganger, "You folk can read minds! That's what let's you do so good a job with the impersonating thing!"
"So don't tell me that's all you know! You read Raven's mind! And you read the minds of his goons and maybe his victims! So I think you know more than you're letting on!"
"And you said they usually blindfolded you! That means they didn't always! I bet you have a pretty darn good idea where Raven and his undead are holed up!"
"Speck, make him tell us the whole truth!"
Aid another diplomacy roll, with three luck points thrown in: a 14. That's another +3 on Speck's check.
Speck AC18/19 HP:21(26)/26 d20+14=25 ; Tuesday September 1st, 2009 9:10:17 PM
"So, how many days have you been impersonating Mordreia?" Speck asks trying to measure how much time they have.
To Lucky, Speck whispers, "We thought from the notes, that she was going to be the target, not was already the target. That means we have less time than we thought. The last note may already be happeing."
Back to Vrinn Speck says, "You are in a bit of luck, Vrinn. With you not going to the tavern tonight, the Raven will surely know you've skipped out on the deal and come after you with his undead things. You play your hand right, or left, you could even be up for a reward for the Raven's capture.
"All you need to do is find out from his goons, by mind reading, where the Raven is. Once that's done, we'll dispatch his minions to the underworld where they belong. You then impersonate one of them, in the manner you do best, and lead us to him. With us on your side, you can extract your revenge on him for all he's done to you.
We won't let you down for we have a lot of money hinging on his capture, or death, or nearly death. And it is enough to share with one more. Got a deal?"
Diplomacy d20+11+3=25, hehehehe
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 d20+6=17 ; Wednesday September 2nd, 2009 3:39:27 AM
Ki smiles as the little one makes a deal only an idiot would refuse, although Ki isn't really sure just how smart this doppleganger is... See, we don't hurt you, and really, we end up protecting you. All you gotta do is read a few minds. How hard is that? * Ki lets a grin spread across his face, And I still get to skewer something with my bladed staff here The elf slams the wooden handle aganist the frozen ground.
Diplomacy (aid another) 17... Thats another +2 for speck
Cedric AC 20 HP 66/66 Character Sheet Wednesday September 2nd, 2009 8:35:13 AM
Cedric shifts out of dog form, and waits for the party to finish questioning her.
"We have to get to searching for the real Modriea, and soon. She may not have much time left."
Marcasthai AC 17 HP 65/84 (SteveK) d20+12=21 ; d20+1=19 ; Wednesday September 2nd, 2009 9:25:58 AM
"Reading minds?" growls Marcas, now more interested in the grey shapechanger. "So you know what to say to make us believe you?" His brows gather together and the 8 foot hero looms over the doppelganger and halflings. "I don't like other people in my head. You tell the truth or things will go bad for you. Yes, very, very bad."
Intimidate: 21 Sense Motive: 19
To torture, or not to torture... That is the question... Wednesday September 2nd, 2009 12:57:16 PM
(Yes, they can read minds. However, this one appears quite insane and disturbed by all he was exposed to by the Raven... If he could even read minds, you wouldn't be sure he'd know how to do anything with them. He is truly insane...)
Vrinn cringes again under the verbal onslaught and whimpers quite pathetically, "Yes, they usually did blindfold me. The other times they came at night and the leader commanded me to sleep, and I then woke up in the cell... Please, I'm telling you the truth and don't hurt me!!!! I don't know where Mordreia is, and no one told me what they are doing with her or if she is even alive.. I'll help you all I can, but there is only so much I know... Please don't let the Raven get me!!!"
However, he does remember one thing and says with a sense of dread,"Wait, I remember one thing. There was this woman who kept screaming and crying out in pain. Whoever was torturing her called her Thorlathai or something like that. He told her that neither her husband or son would be able to save her from what awaited her... But I still don't know where she was being held!"
Sir John ponders this all for a moment and says, "Friends, remember that we have a 2nd letter to decipher and what seems like a possible location for our next search. I don't think we should wait here for Mordreia, and it is likely that we'll discover more about her and the others who are being tortured. Also, I seem to have heard the name Thorlathai somewhere before, but I'm not sure where. Either way, time is wasting and we must move on. This fool knows little else that can help us and we should put him in prison for now, so we can come back and interrogate him later if needed."
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 Wednesday September 2nd, 2009 1:04:54 PM Putting him in prison would only let Raven know he is missing. If we do not let this creature To keep impersonating Mordria, then we need to wait here for the Raven. That way we can take care of him, otherwise Vrinn needs to keep being Mordiea, that wayhe doesn't kill her before he's "suppose to" accodring to the clues anyways. Ki sighs, and sneers at the doppleganger. I like Specks Idea. Having this thing read the minds of any minions Raven sends after him tonight. While we amubush and dispatch of the Minions and hopefully capture Raven as well, getting information from him would prove easy enough with the doppleganger on our side.
Lucky AC18 HP43 of 46 d20+5=13 ; Wednesday September 2nd, 2009 1:23:48 PM
Lucky begins to understand now. "Friends, this doppelganger is too crazy to read minds. That won't work, though it was a good idea. We need to be gentle with the mad, and take care of them."
Lucky turns to the shapeshifter and says, gently, "Vinny, look. You'll be safest if you keep pretending to be the singer girl. We'll take care of this Raven fellow. After they are all dead or locked up, you'll be safe. Okay?"
Diplomacy check: 13
Marcasthai AC 17 HP 65/84 (SteveK) Wednesday September 2nd, 2009 7:13:50 PM
Marcas is mollified by his friends answers, and withdraws to ease the gibbering doppelganger's nerves.
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 Wednesday September 2nd, 2009 8:27:12 PM
Quickly growing tired of talking to the creature, even moreso now that the plan has been shot, Ki turns to his group, To the 'graveyard' then? Or is it a junk yard? Ethier way, I think wasting more time with this thing is useless.... Ki motions away from the doppleganger, in the direction of the graveyard/junk yard Lets be on our way With that the sorcerer begins to walk away.
Speck AC18/19 HP:21(26)/26 d20+3=14 ; d20=5 ; Wednesday September 2nd, 2009 10:13:48 PM
OOC: dang, i accidentally hit Reset instead of Submit,now I gotta type all I had in all over again. :(
Ok, Knowledge local d20+3=14. (This is for when Speck was here not long ago with the circus to see if he remembers hearing anything about a junk yard and where it might be)
Aid Another (Lucky Diplomacy) d20=5. Sorry, Speck must have ADD right now and is busy with something else.
Speck sighs, "Shoot, so we gotta do it the hard way."
He then slithers down the ladder and faces Vrinn. "The only way we're gonna get the Raven is if you play your part as you've done up until now." Sigh. "Won't be the same..." he mutters, then speaks up again, "For your safety, you need to get back into Mordreia's guise, go back to the tavern, and dance up a storm as usual. We'll hunt down the Raven and when he is no longer a threat, we will return and let you know.
"We'll make sure the town Marshall knows nothing of this and you will be free to go back to your family. Now back to the room and into your dress, er costume. We have work to do."
Turning to the others he says, "Off to the yard, Junk Yard that is. Follow that, er, elf?"
Cedric AC 20 HP 66/66 Character Sheet Thursday September 3rd, 2009 7:51:33 AM
"Yes, let's get there." Cedric says with a bit of hurry. "Her life may depend on it."
He follows the group to this junk yard.
To torture, or not to torture... That is the question... Thursday September 3rd, 2009 9:51:03 AM
(OOC = Ummm.... Marcas, please read my post (and what Sir John said too) a little closer... You're missing something critical... I'll wait to post until you read it and post a new reaction... It's vital to our story...)
Marcasthai AC 17 HP 65/84 (SteveK) d20+12=21 ; Thursday September 3rd, 2009 10:16:54 AM
oops!!!! please delete last post.
Marcas is mollified by his friends answers, and begins to withdraw from the conversation when the gibbering doppelganger hits a nerve.
"Thorlathai!!!" he roars and strides forth to bring a large hand to grab the doppelganger and bounce it against the wall. All semblance of the controlled, rational, quiet Marcas is gone and the warrior is fully roused.
"We take this thing to the constables, and then we hunt the weapons graveyard for this Raven", he says between gritted teeth. "If true or false, I will find if this demon has somehow imprisoned my dam, my mother!"
Keeping a pressing grip on the doppelganger, Marcas will quickly frogmarch him to the Captain's Office, literally bulling his way through any opposition. "And I will kill him."
End of Part 1... Thursday September 3rd, 2009 12:37:36 PM
Vrinn cries out in pain, "Please, don't hurt me! I only heard her name!!! I can't tell you anymore!!! I didn't know she was your mom!!!"
Sir John is shocked at the fact that the Raven seems to have somehow imprisoned Marcas' mom... Could this be a foresight of worse things to come??? What could the Raven have in store for Marcas' mother? Is it a coincidence or could there be something more...
When they reach the constable's office, he listens to their story and agrees to watch over Vrinn until the deputies need to question him more. He adds, "I'll assign a deputy to watch for Mordreia and when and if she returns, we'll put her in custody and notify you immediately. You need to focus your energies on finding more about this graveyard and if it has anything to do with the 2nd letter. I think I know where that graveyard is, and here are some directions..." He hands them a parchment and explains how to find it...
OOC = OK, we're ready for the next phase of our mystery and unless there are any other questions, I'll hand it off to our next Dm...
Everyone, please take 750 more xp for identifying the fake Mordreia and unmasking Vrin...
Cayzle OOC Thursday September 3rd, 2009 3:43:14 PM
Mithril Tap XP History, for your edification:
Campaign starts [7 Jan 09] 21,000 xp
To Help a Farmer [2 Jun 09] (Total +6,585 and one hero point) -- First fight [28 Jan 09] +725 xp -- Second fight [7 April] +750 xp -- Hero Point [7 April] +210 xp -- Third fight [23 May 09] +1,400 xp -- Story Award [2 June 09] +3,500 xp
Reptiles in the Road [15 June 09] +1,500
Mystery in Tharn -- Initial investigations [17 Aug 09] +1,000 -- Vrin unmasked [3 Sep 09] +750 xp
NOTE: Some PCs may have more xp from individual awards given directly to them.
I also updated the game archives.
Lucky AC18 HP43 of 46 Thursday September 3rd, 2009 3:45:33 PM
"His mother?" Lucky is flabbergasted. "I didn't see that one coming!"
The so-called Captain of the group can only follow in shocked amazement as he helps escort the shifter to the constabulary, and then leads the group to the graveyard.
"I wish the Undead Hunter were still with us," he mutters. "What was her name? Syrup, or something?"
Cedric AC 20 HP 66/66 Character Sheet d20+15=22 d20+15=28 d20+4=11 Friday September 4th, 2009 9:32:59 AM
Cedric follows along, a determined look in his eye. He keeps his eyes and ears open as he travels.
OOC: 22 Spot, 28 Listen, 11 K:local
Lucky AC18 HP43 of 46 d20+9=10 ; d20+10=26 ; Friday September 4th, 2009 12:27:45 PM
Spot 10 Listen 26
Seems like Captain Lucky is closing his eyes so he can hear better!
Speck AC18/19 HP:21(26)/26 d20+5=14 ; d20+7=8 ; d20+3=13 ; Friday September 4th, 2009 8:53:48 PM
A look of shock crosses his face as the minotaur, usually 'docile', errupts in a rant about his mother being imprisoned by someone Vrinn the Ganger knows.
As Marcas rather bruskly drags Vrinn away to the constabulary, Speck shrugs. "Well, So much for the grreat plans of men, mice, er haflings."
At the constabulary at least no all is lost. Directions to the junk yard will save them valuable time.
Marcasthai AC 17 HP 65/84 (SteveK) Saturday September 5th, 2009 3:10:44 PM
Intense and visibly controlling his anger and impatience, Marcas awaits his companions as they get ready to follow the map to the war machine graveyard. "It is unlikely that my dam was captured from all the way in the Tauric Isles and brought here to Cinnamon Valley as a way to force me, a stranger, to not seek out and destroy this murderer. I know it is much more likely that they are using her name to inflame us to walk into a trap."
His black eyes look like they could be black dancing flames. "Whichever is true, he has made a mistake and will be destroyed."
The minotaur hefts his Ranseur and impatiently taps a hoof on the floor. "Let us go!"
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 d20+2=12 ; d20+6=22 ; Saturday September 5th, 2009 6:05:06 PM
Ki watchs, in utter amazment or sheer terror, (its hard to tell) when Marcas pinns the ganger aganist the wall. The elf follows the group to the constables office.
I think if its a trap were meant to find, so be it. We should go forward to the graveyard with caution. Just be ready for the trap, that alone will make it easier to handle. He turns to the minotaur, Marcas, you have my word, I'll help you to the ends of my own life to save or revenge your mother. Which ever might be the case. Ki's eyes have a look of sincerity few people have ever seen in their lives, its very clear he means every word.
Anyways, Captian, lead us onward. Ki will follow Lucky to the grave yard, keeping his eyes, and sensitive ears open for anything unusual.*&** *spot: 1d20+1=12 **Listen:1d20+6=22
It may seem like Ki follows Lucky's lead, closing his eyes to improve his hearing... lol..
BTW: Does Ki get 1,750 xp? or just the 750 for Vrinn?
Marcasthai AC 17 HP 65/84 (SteveK) Monday September 7th, 2009 8:53:49 AM
Marcas pauses and raises himself to his full height, giving the half-elf a very proper bow. "I have travelled from my homeland to study the ways of the Noble Races, and find that they too, know Honor."
He gives a nod to his other companions, showing his statement includes Sir John, Cedric, and yes, even Speck and Lucky. Thinking of thier leader in such a way would have made Marcas smile but for the great worry upon him. "Let us go!"
Sir John d20+4=21 ; d20+2=22 ; Monday September 7th, 2009 9:19:36 AM
Sir John listens to Marcas and says, "My friend, I'm troubled that the Raven would know your mom's name. Remember that he might have been able to teleport there and back to get her, and if he's got undead behind him... well, I wouldn't put anything past him... "
He follows Marcas' lead and takes his place in the marching order. He mounts Joshua, gives him a hearty hug, and while traveling, he watches all directions to ensure their safety...
Spot = 21 Listen = 22 (Nat'l 20)
DM POST d20+8=23 ; d6=3 ; d20+12=23 ; d20+12=29 ; Monday September 7th, 2009 10:55:13 AM
After the disturbing revelation that the Raven may have made this more personal, the party resolves to travel with haste to the junk yard, using the constables directions.
The directions take the party weaving through back alleys and crowded main streets. There are many people milling about in the late afternoon, though far fewer than normal given the weather and other conditions. This part of the directions take you to an alley that is a bit run down.
OOC: Speck: Highlight to display spoiler: {Knowledge Local: The alley you now travel on is know as a bit of a seedy place, mostly cut purses. It's not know for much violent crime though. You recall the name Jimmy the Hand as the local thug rumored to run the operations in this part of town. }
Sir John: Highlight to display spoiler: {When you next go through your pouch, you find yourself missing 3 gold coins}
Lucky and Cedric Highlight to display spoiler: {You hear a pebble dislodged from the roof of the building to the parties east striking the ground. Someone is likely up there.}
Mapping Note: Please move yourself on the map. If you have any questions about the map please ask.
Continued spot and listen checks are in order.
Lucky AC18 HP43 of 46 d20+4=6 ; Tuesday September 8th, 2009 7:48:25 AM
Before the combat, Lucky offers a word of what he thinks is comfort to the minotaur. "Sir Marks-On-Thighs," he says, "Buck up, old chum. You know, 'Thorlathai' is really a very common name. Why, I myself have one or two in my family tree. My second cousin Bert's mother-in-law, just to name one. Likely it's someone else with the same moniker, I'd wager."
Then he hears something. Lucky calls out loudly, "Hey, you! Behind that chimehney! It's no one's birthday, so don't even think of jumping out to yell surprise! Besides, your boots are sticking out, plain as day!"
Lucky is bluffing that he can see the person, so I better make a Bluff check: a six! LOL!
Lucky points in the direction he thinks the person is.
Does Lucky have time to cast a spell? If it is dark or dim, then he'll cast Daylight, centered on himself, hoping to reveal things better. If that would not help, he'll activate his magic stone tattoo and create three magic stones.
[Note: 3 hp nonlethal damage from cold]
0: Create Water, Resistance, Virtue, Read Magic, Purify Food 1: Sanctuary, Comp Lang, Inflict LW, Pro Evil, Pro Law 2: Lesser Restoration, Owls Wis, Find Traps, Spirit Weap, Shatter 3: Sum Mon III, Daylight, Remove Curse, Pro Energy
Tattoo: 0 of 3 used so far today.
Current Luck Points: 6
Marcasthai AC 17 HP 65/84 (SteveK) d20+14=19 ; d20+14=32 ; d20+14=33 ; d20+1=11 d20+7=22 Tuesday September 8th, 2009 12:19:28 PM
Marcas is not dissuaded by Lucky's thoughts on names, and continues to lead the way through the alley towards the junk-grave yard. There are people in his way, but they are only obstacles and moveable obstacles at that.
"One side, constable business!" he calls to clear the way ahead of him. If they move, fine. If they don't move, Marcas plows over them, leaving the people prone on the ground.
...Actions... Move: double move to M22, N22, M23, N23 Overrun: potentially DC 19, DC 32, DC 33 Listen: 11 Spot: 22
Sir John d20+4=24 ; d20+2=15 ; Tuesday September 8th, 2009 2:58:26 PM
As he rides down the street, Sir John notices his purse feeling a bit lighter... He realizes that he's now 3 gp short, and immediately puts his purse inside his armor where it is out of reach...
He also follows Marcas' lead and calls on Joshua to begin trotting next to Marcas, knocking people over if needed while also shouting the same thing, "Constable business!!!! Get out of the way or get knocked over!"
He does his best not to seriously injure anyone, but this whole idea of being cramped in makes him very uncomfortable. He likes wide open areas where he can charge and parry...
Spot = 24 (nat'l 20... All right! Of course, those would be better if we were in combat...) Listen = 15
Speck AC18/19 HP:21(26)/26 d20+8=19 ; d20+5=25 ; d20+7=22 ; d20+4=17 ; d20+4=16 ; Tuesday September 8th, 2009 11:16:30 PM
Speck remembers the area, or actually, remembers of the area and who's boss. Hopefully that knowledge won't be necessary, but the idea of saying that famous phrase Take me to your leader just keeps begging to come out.
"There are times when being Big is good, There are times when being Small is good. This is a time for being Big," Speck mutters as Marcas and Sir John ensure a clear path.
OOC: Speck will move his regulare mov rate, putting him 40' straigh ahead.
As Speck passes the RSP (Random Street Person), he whispers, "Be at the Glitterdust tonight. Great performance expected. Pass the word around."
He hopes this will help get the people off the streets and out of their way by sedning them to the tavern. Bluff d20+8=19
Spot d20+5=25 (N20!) Listen d20+7=22
and if Environmental checks are in order again: Cold Fort DC15 d20+4= 17 good Soot Fort DC15 d20+4= 16 good
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 d20+2=15 ; d20+3=17 ; d20+3=13 ; d20+6=13 ; Wednesday September 9th, 2009 12:41:45 AM
Ki looks around the alley way, on the roof tops and even behind him as he Follows the group. Not even giving a small chuckle at the little ones jokes, and shaking his head at the halfling talking about another having the same name as the 'taur's mother. Why would you even try? Everyone here knows it his mother, and I barly know the horned one... This is a serious matter, we could be amubushed, robed or something worse in this ally. None of these light hearted fellows seem to care... Growing somewhat frustrated at the people standing in their way, he joins in with Sir John and Marcas, Move you fools! We have important buisness! Out of our way!
The sorcerer mentally prepares his 'presdigitation' spell, to move the snow on rooftops, making in fall onto a perceived opponent or shuffle it around to make someone on the rooftops fall.
Cedric AC 20 HP 66/66 Character Sheet d20+15=17 ; d20+15=17 ; Wednesday September 9th, 2009 7:43:08 AM
Cedric moves up to stay with Lucky, looking towards the rooftop trying to see what Lucky has seen.
OOC: Spot 17, Listen 17
Alley Combat Round 1 d20+8=11 ; d20+12=16 ; d20+12=13 ; d20+9=25 ; d4+2=6 ; d4=3 ; Wednesday September 9th, 2009 8:19:45 AM
Lucky illuminates the street into daylight, instantly turning the scene from twilight to high noon. Although some fog lingers, the area is now brightly illuminated. If that doesn't clear the streets, the hulking minotaur and the imposing figure on horseback certainly do. People begin to scatter, clearly not wanting any part of this. One or two nod at Speck's comments as he passes them, though most are too frightened to really respond. It is clear the street will be empty in a matter of moments.
One cheeky fellow however, hesitates for a moment before moving off. Those that made a DC 11 Spot check Highlight to display spoiler: {One figure tried grabbing a few coins from Cedric's pouch before darting down the alley, but was unable to do so. He's marked as T on the map. }
Most of the party can see, now clearly illuminated on the roof the figure of a man, dressed in dark, concealing clothing. If he is upset about his ambush being ruined he doesn't show it. Instead, he winds up and releases a sling bullet, striking Speck. He then slides down over the crest of the roof of the building, out of sight.
Speck: Highlight to display spoiler: {Listen DC 20:You can hear him landing softly on the ground on the back side of the building.}
OOC: We are now in combat rounds. Round 1 Alley Combat Map Please move yourselves on the map as best as possible.
People Scatter. Speck is attacked by Sling Bullet from Enemy 1: Hit AC 25 for 6 damage: If that deals damage, please make a DC 14 Fortitude Save vs Poison or suffer 3 Strength Damage. Note: The enemy is now out of sight, having hid over the roof of the building. The map indicates where he was before moving, for reference.
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 Wednesday September 9th, 2009 1:36:47 PM that little bastard.. Ki lets his prestidigitation spell fly, causing rocks and slippery snow to get caught under the theifs feet, hopefully tripping him (Not sure what to roll here) The elf moves behind Lucky and Cedric...
This is going to be interesting...
Triping is well beyond the power of Prestidigitation. It also has a range of only 10 feet. --DM Troy
Marcasthai AC 17 HP 65/84 (SteveK) d20+1=13 ; d20+7=17 ; Wednesday September 9th, 2009 1:46:34 PM
Marcas ignores the little pickpocket as not important enough to stop. Even Lucky's spell is just a spell. But a companion getting attacked is another matter!
"Come and form up together!" he calls to the other heroes, "it will be easier to support each other!"
The minotaur stops in order for the others to catch up to where he is holding his ground. Slinging his Ranseur back into its carrying sheath, Marcas unlimbers his bow and knocks an arrow. He scans the roofs for any other enemy trying to take pot-shots at his team.
...Actions... Standard: put away weapon Move: pull out weapon as part of move action LIsten: 13 Spot: 17
Lucky AC18 HP43 of 46 Wednesday September 9th, 2009 1:52:15 PM
Lucky uses his tattoo to make three magic stones. He moves as Marcas directs, backing up 20 feet to be closer to the Taur.
Sir John d20+4=18 ; d20+2=6 ; Wednesday September 9th, 2009 1:58:23 PM
Sir John nods at Marcas' suggestion and withdraws a javelin, readying it for the first target he sees. With a growl, he adds, "I can't fight cooped up in this darn alley. We need to get to an open area, so let's move the fight to somewhere we can have an advantage, maybe the main road ahead of us... The shooter's moved and so should we..."
Spot = 18 Listen = 6
(Standard Action = Put axe away... and as part of move action draw javelin and move forward slightly...)
Speck AC18/19 HP:15(20)/26 d20+4=23 ; d20+5=20 ; d20+7=22 ; Wednesday September 9th, 2009 8:43:54 PM
"OW!" Speck exclaims. "Darn mosquito!" Then as a trickle of blood smears his hand where he slapped the sting, he blurts, "That's no mosquito! Someone hit me!"
Fort (Poison) DC14 d20+4=23, save (big time!)
Speck turns to face Marcas as he gives orders to form up around him, "Don't you go running off after that squirt!" he says. "It's a ruse, you know? Slow us down. Wild rabbit chase. He's already landed in the snow on the other side and will be just tracks in a narrow alley by the time we get there. Let's keep to our goal, but eyes open even wider."
He then slips through the minotaur's spread legs and takes up position right behind him (M24). However he keeps his back to the minotaur's hairy legs and takes out his sling and a bullet. "I can do the same," he mutters.
Spot d20+5=20 Listen d20+7=22
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 Wednesday September 9th, 2009 9:38:52 PM Lets get going then, master Speck
Cedric AC 20 HP 66/66 Character Sheet d20+15=16 ; d20+15=18 ; Thursday September 10th, 2009 8:09:52 AM
Cedric stays close to Ki'El, not wanting the new party member to get separated. He keeps his eyes and ears sharp for danger.
Alley Combat Round 2 d20+12=18 ; d20+12=24 ; Thursday September 10th, 2009 8:13:18 AM
The people on the streets continue to scatter, and the pick pocket is soon lost around the corner.
Most of the party moves closer to the larger members of the party, closing ranks. Cedric and Ki'El choose to remain separate for the time being. All are on guard, and preparing with various ranged attacks.
A tense silence descends on the street as seconds tick by with no attack. The muffled footfalls of the party, and distant sounds of city life are all that can be heard through the falling snow. Lucky's daylight spell continues to illuminate the street, and throw the corners into shadow.
If anyone wishes to make a preemptive spellcraft check, please do so. Lucky, I moved you 20' down on that map as you stated in your post.
Sir John d20+4=8 ; d20+2=13 ; d20=11 ; Thursday September 10th, 2009 9:58:47 AM
Sir John continues moving forward with Joshua at a trot, continuing to clear out traffic in front of him while watching for threats...
Spot = 8, Listen = 13, Spellcraft = 11
Marcasthai AC 17 HP 65/84 (SteveK) d20+1=8 ; d20+7=22 ; Thursday September 10th, 2009 11:05:49 AM
Marcus hustles down the street and takes a left into another alley. "Hurry herdmates, hurry Cedric and Ki'El! Let us move away from the ambush site and find better ground. I agree with Speck that this is only a distraction to our goal."
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 d20+2=15 ; d20+6=9 ; Thursday September 10th, 2009 11:20:03 AM
Ki listens to the veteran members, and follows down the alley, keeping on full guard, his wicked glaive held in two hands across his body, Thanks for your protection sir Cedric. He says while hustling toward the group.
Spot:d20+2=15 Listen: d20+6=9
Lucky AC18 HP43 of 46 Thursday September 10th, 2009 11:39:37 AM
With Lucky's short legs, odds are he will have to take double moves, and even runs, to keep up with the group. He does his best. The light moves with him. He keeps a stone in hand to throw.
"Where's my dinosaur," he mutters. "What a place to be without a mount!"
Speck AC18/19 HP:15(20)/26 Thursday September 10th, 2009 9:50:54 PM
Speck hustles, slip-slides, and does his best to keep pace with Marcas (double-move +Run as necessary).
Lucky AC18 HP43 of 46 Friday September 11th, 2009 12:48:19 PM
Lucky keeps following the battle leader.
Marcasthai AC 17 HP 65/84 (SteveK) Friday September 11th, 2009 1:10:48 PM
The battle leader keeps urging Lucky on. :-)
Cedric AC 20 HP 66/66 Character Sheet d8+5=10 ; Friday September 11th, 2009 1:11:10 PM
Cedric moves up to Speck, and heals him somewhat.
OOC: Move, cast Cure Light Wounds on Speck: 10 HP healed.
Alley Combat, Round 3 d20+10=16 ; d20+10=23 ; Friday September 11th, 2009 1:23:11 PM
The party continues its organized withdraw, not wanting to face an enemy that appears to have some skill in hit and run tactics. Cedric sees to Speck's wounds.
As the party moves south, it's clear most people do not want to tangle with the light bringing, minotaur yelling group. People continue to scatter before you and hide. The streets are nearly deserted now as far as you can see down the alleyways.
Sir John: Highlight to display spoiler: {Listen DC 10: You hear scrambling from behind the building to your north east, you suspect someone is climbing the wall.}
Sir John Friday September 11th, 2009 7:43:10 PM
Sir John follows Marcas down the alley, but then hears something troubling... He yells, "Hey, we've got more company coming!!! It sounds like someone is climbing the wall to my northeast and I don't think they're friendly!"
He moves up behind Marcas and says, "Keep moving Marcas! I can't get past you!"
Speck AC18/19 HP:25(1)/26 d20+5=20 ; d20+7=15 ; Friday September 11th, 2009 9:46:52 PM
A warm comforting feeling flows through Specks body and the healing effects of the cold and soot also fade. "Thanks a bunch," Speck says rather startled. He hadn't expected any healing and was determined to tough it out.
"Walls? Climbing walls? Wait until I spot them," Speck smiles as he pulls out his wand of Grease, putting away his sling for the moment and looking at the house tops in the direction Sir John pointed.
OOC: How high are these roofs, on average?
Spot d20+5=20 Listen d20+7=15
Ki'El HP:35/35 AC: 14 d20+6=26 ; d20+2=4 ; Friday September 11th, 2009 11:35:52 PM
Ki moves further south, behind Sir Jon, taking Speck and Sir jon's que, he starts peering at the roof tops* looking for this 'wall climber' pouding his staff/glaive on the frosty ground, Sir jon, Marcas, hurry around this building, out of this alley way. I'll help the little ones and Cedric behind you. You two concentrate on clearing a path and whats ahead of us.. It seems to me an ambush is begining. The sorcerer has a grim look on his face, as he puts his back to the two, and faces Speck, Lucky and Cedric. His eyes darting from roof top to roof top although the glare from the white snowy ground obscures his vision. Nearly making the elf close his eyes, thus...He strains his ears aganist the patter of feet, no longer relying on his vision and perking his ears to resemble that of a canine.
Sir John d20+4=12 d20+2=3 Saturday September 12th, 2009 9:51:43 AM
(OOC = Thanks Robert. I knew we could normally move past each other, but wasn't sure about a mounted person moving past a minotaur in a close alley. But if you'll let me, I'll update the map and keep moving)
Spot (he's looking in all directions, trying to spot enemies) = 12 Listen = 3
Marcasthai AC 17 HP 65/84 (SteveK) Saturday September 12th, 2009 3:04:51 PM
Marcas grunts in acknowledgement. The others will follow if he and Sir John find a way out. Therefore, he will find a way out!
The minotaur hurries forward.
>..Action... Move : double move (marked on map)
Cedric AC 20 HP 66/66 Character Sheet d20+15=16 ; d20+15=22 ; Monday September 14th, 2009 8:15:25 AM
Cedric keeps with Speck, scanning the roof tops.
OOC: Listen 16, Spot 22
Alley Combat, Round 4 d20+11=19 ; d4+2=3 ; d20+10=27 ; d4=3 ; Monday September 14th, 2009 8:38:23 AM
The group moves to get out of the narrow alleyway, and into a more open path. They keep their eyes and ears peeled, scanning for the enemy they know is about.
They don't have to wait long. Appearing over the apex of the roof is the same enemy you saw before. One foot balanced on either side of the point, they appear comfortably perched despite the snow. Now that you have a better look, you can see your foe is wrapped in dark, simple clothes, and his or her face is mostly hidden by cloth. You would guess human, though it's tough to tell with all the clothes. The foe is now visible to everyone except Lucky.
They waste no time in launching another sling bullet, this time at Ki'El.
OOC: We are in combat rounds: Round 4 Alley Combat Map Please move yourself on the map.
Ki'El is attacked by a sling Bullet from Enemy 1: Hit AC 19 for 3 damage. If that deals damage, please make a DC 14 Fortitude Save vs Poison or suffer 3 Strength Damage.
If anyone wishes to make a preemptive spellcraft check please do so.
Sense Motive DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {It seems odd that after stalking and ambushing you then hiding again, your foe suddenly shows himself completely. Perhaps they are being reckless, or are trying to slow you down. Or perhaps they do not fear death.}
Lucky AC18 HP43 of 46 Monday September 14th, 2009 10:29:45 AM
Note to Ki'El (and Speck) You guys get a +1 on saves, attacks, and skill checks since you are within 20 feet of Lucky!
Lucky sees that he is close to the enemy, too close! He can't see enough to make an attack. "Oh curse this Euclidean geometry," he wails, "with these unspeakable 'angles' and soul-wrenching 'line-of-sights'! Oh for the days when I slept in the cyclopean splendor of that wonderful wet city! There one could walk into a corner and strike a foe through geometries unknown to this dismal Wold!"
Lucky casts a Summon Monster III spell, calling creatures to do his bidding from some unknown dimension of chaos! "Come! Come!" the halfling calls out, eyes crazed! "Y'ai'ng'ngah wgah'nagl fhtagn!"
If you speak Celestial, Please Highlight to display spoiler: {Lucky is saying, "Come, air-spirits of chaos! Take form and serve me!"}
OOC: Casting Summon Monster III is a full round action. Also, Lucky will be putting five luck points into his roll, per the Mendicant Greater Luck ability, calling 1d3+5 celestial eagles to answer his call.
I'm sorry, I'm going to have to rule you can not increase the maximum number of creatures summoned using greater luck, only the chance that you will roll the maximum. You can put 2 points in, and automatically call 3 eagles however. --DM Troy
[Note: 3 hp nonlethal damage from cold]
0: Create Water, Resistance, Virtue, Read Magic, Purify Food 1: Sanctuary, Comp Lang, Inflict LW, Pro Evil, Pro Law 2: Lesser Restoration, Owls Wis, Find Traps, Spirit Weap, Shatter 3: Sum Mon III, Daylight, Remove Curse, Pro Energy
Tattoo: 1 of 3 used so far today. Current magic stones: 0 of 3 used.
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