Back to Life...Back to Reality... (DM Donna) Monday November 26th, 2001 7:02:59 AM
Bill learns, through careful dialogue with Shianna, that the "Bright Man" she refers to is not Marteaus, but Domi. The girl (the human equivalent of a 4-year-old toddler) is apparently unaware that the god of courage is dead.
Frellin is most distressed to discover that he had been forcibly converted to the cause of the Dark Lord, and doesn't object to Bill carrying his daughter back to where Kianimar and his captain await them.
Kianimar is ecstatic to find her family reunited, and also much distressed when Frellin speaks to her of the mind control that he'd been acting under. They both thank the party heartily and Kianimar vows to bring her husband to the temple of Teresalia straight away--the clerics of that goddess are particularly effective in removing all types of charms and mind controlling-effects. She also gives Bill a piece of parchment with the family's address on it, inviting him to look in on them any time he wishes.
Thalis also thanks the group, dismissing them so that they may go back to their safe house and get some well-earned rest.
The pickings from the converts are mighty slim--from what little you could get them to talk about, they, too, were "converted" on the night Domi died--as a proof of their devotion, they were required to give up practically all their magic items and certainly all the money they were carrying. Of the items that the party managed to retrieve from the converts, only the bastard sword actually remains intact...the rest of the weapons, armor and various bits of what had once been magic jewelry and such have mysteriously become pitted and corroded. The female gnome of the group grumbles that this happened when the thunder was heard from the Temple of Marteaus--the Dark Lord has little love for minions who fail him, it seems.
The Hamleteers go back to the safe house and sleep until mid-day.
When the group wakes up and has their noontime breakfast, there's a knock on the door. It's Marcus! He has two special collars for Ferrak and Darkfang--they work like Hats of Disguise, only they'll make their wearers look (and smell) like different breeds of dog. He suggests that Ferrak and Darkfang become breeds akin to those used as guard dogs, for Marcus is having the pair be presented to the innkeeper as her new, improved canine security for the establishment. (Note to Ferrak: these collars only project the look/smell of a guard dog--neither Ferrak nor Darkfang actually metamorphasize into dogs. Be careful where you'd leave tracks...because Ferrak's will still look like the tracks of a gnome!)
"You're expected back at the Beer & Bath today," Marcus tells you, "So as soon as you're ready, you should report to work." With this, the aide leaves you all to get ready for work.
Sunblaze Monday November 26th, 2001 10:43:17 AM
Sunblaze, just before the Hamleteers eat, saunters in. A huge grin on her face, she greets everyone. Questioning of what happened while she was gone.
She grabs the small Jeweled Knife out of her belt pouch, wiping some blood off of it. Then she takes out her sword, wiping it down as well. It is less bloodened, yet still, a dirty sword is a sad sword.
When the group finishes eating, she changes into her 'Sontra' costume. Then heads towards the Beer and Bath.
Ferrak d8+3=11 d8+3=6 d4=3 d4=2 Monday November 26th, 2001 6:44:34 PM
Not wanting to waste the magic of Bill's wand, Ferrak uses his own magic to heal any who needs it. Heal-11 for me, Heal-6 for Renik, & 5 good berries for Draax and Arien.) (I think Renik, Ferrak, & Draax were wounded the worst? Did I succeed in negating that hit on Darkfang? Did anyone else take damage, that wont be healed by a rest? I know Arien took some damage, Bill healed himself with a potion. Rond?)
Not quite sure what the others are doing to the bodies of the dead, and after making sure they aren't eating them, Ferrak goes along with the looting. Although what he finds of interest, the others probably wouldn't want to know about.
The next day finds Ferrak & Darkfang wrestling with the idea of new necklaces for them both. Not exactly excited about the prospects of wearing a collar, Ferrak understands the concept of duty. He struggles with Darkfang for most of the next day trying to convince the big black wolf that it's necessary. "We are still free, we only pretend to be collared!" is what he yells as they wrestle through the morning.
Renik sleeps soundly. Monday November 26th, 2001 6:45:09 PM
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.
Bill Troublefinder d20+17=18 Monday November 26th, 2001 6:52:55 PM
Bill tells their defeated opponents to quit their following of Marteaus. "Whoever were to keep following the so-called 'Dark Lord' is a fool, or evil. In some cases it's hard to tell the difference." To the female gnome, in gnomish he suggests she take her talents and see what she can do to work and adventure to help people, rather than to follow the dead-end path of serving Marteaus.
He resolves to talk with Shianna at some point about Domi. Now is not that time. He thanks Kianimar for the open invitation. He tells Frellin that he will keep him and his family in his prayers. "Any other gem-eyed creatures show up, kick 'em where it hurts and then run away!" he suggests.
On Marcus' arrival, Bill asks how things are going elsewhere. "With all the chaos in the city, how is Sturdavent doing? He must have some people really complaining. When things go well, the politicians take credit. When things go poorly, the citizens blame the politicians."
The halfling again prepares tea for those who wish it, takes a decent-sized snack, and asks, "How's the food at the Beer & Bath? Do you suppose they'll have a place for me to help out?" He washes up, and spends some time to change into Lake - the halfling with a crooked smile. His friends might recall it's the disguise he wore at the Golden Arena on the night of Marteaus' coming out party. Despite his efforts, though, it's obvious to his friends that too much of Bill is showing through (rolled a 1 on disguise). Maybe someone will point this out, so he doesn't make too much of an ass* of himself the first day.
*ass - an animal. Not referring to any particular body part.
He greets Sunblaze, and recaps what they went through. He asks how the blood came to be on her weapons.
And he listens to Ferrak and Darkfang as they romp, trying to pick up more of the language of wolves.
The halfling rousts Renik. "Enough sleep, lazy boy." He drips cool water onto Renik's nose, ready to dart backwards should the nimble rogue start suddenly.
Sontra-Sunblaze-Steven d20+2=20 d20+2=8 Monday November 26th, 2001 8:43:23 PM
(OOC: I thought since we've having an RP moment, I would post again. If you don't like me for it, delete it =))
Sontra looks towards Bill with a saddened face. His eyes seem to well up with tears. He gathers his words up and speaks. "Many had lost their minds with the death of Domi. Some couldn't even begin to reason. I was forced to lay my sword on them. I've been helping to fix up the temple so much, that I haven't gotten around to cleaning them."
After he perfects his disguise, (Nice, a 20...How did I manage that) he watches Bill for a moment. After realizing he's trying to change his look, laughes. "Bill, You might want to fix yourself up. Your still you. Well actually you look like...a carriage hit you. Want some help?" He grins, then walks up to him, fixing some of his figures, poorly though (Dang 8's).
"Maybe you should fix yourself up, Bill..."
Bill Troublefinder aka 'Lake' d20+17=25 Monday November 26th, 2001 9:11:43 PM
Bill listens to Sunblaze, er, Sontra, intently. "I'm so sorry to hear about that. Yes, lots of people have gone over the edge since the Arena."
Bill looks at himself in the mirror, and at first wonders what Sontra is talking about. He gets out his disguise kit again, and uses the lighted mirrors in combination with his hand held mirror. "Oh!" is all he says. He takes things off, adjusts his hat, and starts over again. Better done. "Thanks for the warning," 'Lake' the halfling tells Sontra.
He adds to his friends, "I don't want to show up as Greener again, maybe for some time. Especially when I found out what that one Dread mage did to that dwarf."
Draax Monday November 26th, 2001 10:14:41 PM
Draax welcomes Sunblaze back with a nod of his head. He thanks Farrak for the goodberries and collapses in the bed for a well deserved rest. He gets up for the late breakfast and continues to eat as he listens to Marcus. He smiles as he recalls that Marcus seems to always show up while the group is eating.
After Marcus leaves, Draax puts on his leathers and transforms into his Steps personality. He looks at Bill and smiles, "I do not think that it will be a problem getting you a job at the Beer and Bath, the food is OK and before you ask I have not tried any of the pies. Is there a specific position that you would like to work? The choices are Bartender, Bouncer, Toter or maybe the Preparation Staff. Chenna will probably put you where she needs you, but if you apply for a specific position, she may decide to put you where you have the most experience."
Lake (Bill) Monday November 26th, 2001 10:53:16 PM
"Hmmm. Well, I'll find out about the pies myself, then," he grins lopsidedly at Steps. "I think that toter or bouncer would be the best for me. Or maybe I can help her in ordering stuff. I like to order stuff."
Rond/Roger Tuesday November 27th, 2001 4:37:26 AM
As Bill talks with the converts about Marteaus, Rond backs him up with what stories he convey from their time in chase of the ring. The fact that Marteaus is a manipulator of words.
Rond, looking the picture of health (no dam), lets Bill talk with Sunblaze, when she returns.
Doing his best to do his leaderly best, Rond walks over to Ferrak and welcomes him and Darkfang to the group. "Very Good Job". (keep in mind Rond is a Ranger. Does that mean an automatic good reaction by Darkfang? Or just that I can use Animal handling if I wanted to?
Once reminded of their work, Rond will put on the hat, become Roger, and introduce himself to the newest members of the group.
Everybody Loves a Party! (DM Donna) Tuesday November 27th, 2001 6:37:49 AM
Chenna (the boss) is very happy to see her employees--that accursed Neverending Night scared the footwrappings off her! Business is still a little slow, but "happy hour" has more people in it now, and so the boss sure can use the Hamleteers, yessirree!
Chenna is delighted to have two guard dogs, and is happy to offer Lake his choice of whichever position he would like.
Three or four weeks go by with the Hamleteers working in their undercover guises. Eventually Darkfang tolerates the collar, though he never shows a love for it. Life at the B&B returns to mostly normal.
News, of course, filters through the patrons of the place--especially worthy of gossip is the rise of the Cult Gods. There have been many conversions since the Day of Darkness...especially notable is the fact that several members of the City Council seem to have adopted the worship of various Cult Gods. What will this mean to Plateau City?
One day, an out-of-breath halfling lass arrives at the inn, with a parchment message for the innkeeper: a very affluent client of Chenna's wants a whole lot of food and wine delivered to his house on Gold Street (in the Gold Quarter)--along with the rental of a magical bubbling tub. The man is throwing a party to honor the fallen Domi and to celebrate the fact that his family is still here & healthy. There is enough of the requisite supplies to make the things that the client wants...but it takes most of the day to make them.
After assembling the disguised Hamleteers together, Chenna shows them several large hampers of food (enough for everyone in the party save one person to carry), plus the two-foot square crate that houses the bubbling tub.
"You all have to deliver the party goods," the woman tells the party, "Careful with this stuff--Borisun is a very generous client of mine and I want him to be happy, happy, happy! You are to set up the buffet, and then find a nice ten-foot-square level area to place the bubbling tub in. Once the crate is in place, step back and say the magic word to trigger the transformation..." Chenna follows her own instructions as she speaks, moving to one side and then saying in a loud, firm voice:
"Jack-KOO-zee!"
Sproing! Suddenly the crate is gone, and in its place is an eight-foot-round circular tub of wood, surrounded by a bench that allows people to sit on the edge and ease into the comfortably-hot water. Chenna points to a series of jeweled buttons that are easily reachable by someone in the tub.
"Borisun has had some experience with a bubbling tub, but remind him that he can control the speed of the bubbles with these." she says. "Transforming the tub back to the crate goes like this..." Chenna claps her hands twice and repeats "Jack-KOO-zee!"
Poof! The crate returns.
"Now, you all are going to have to hustle--I do NOT want to lose Borisun's business." the proprietress says firmly. "The only way you can take all this stuff to his house in time is to cut across Gladiator Park...and you don't want to get caught in the park after sundown these days. We've all heard nasty rumors about what lives in the park now." Chenna turns away, then turns back.
"You can take one of the guard dogs with you for protection." she says. "But the other one has to stay here."
Bill Troublefinder - The General Doin's Post Tuesday November 27th, 2001 1:11:14 PM
[OOC: Wow! A whole month's worth of posting ... coming up. Or, more reading than Donna wants to do!]
To build a library: Bill asks his fellow party members, after they've been working the Beer & Bath for a few days, if they'd each be willing to kick in some funds to start building up a library for the group. "We need to get to know more about this area, its history, and books are places you can find out more about different skills, and ways of doing things." He says he's going to put in 250 gp himself toward the library. "Do you each think you can put in 250 gp, too? Or less? Or more?" He'll get receipts where ever he can for the purchase of books, and, during some of his time off, will begin to frequent different bookstores and scroll shops. He'll work on making friends with as many booksellers as he can. And anyone who wants to come with him, that's great, as far as Bill is concerned. He reads from some of the purchased books.
Lake at work: At the Beer & Bath itself, 'Lake' offers to be a toter, and also allows as how he can help out with shopping and finding things, as need be. He keeps his use of his psionic skills from time to time as hidden as possible from patrons of the Beer & Bath. If circumstances seem to warrant it, he may use clairvoyance or clairaudience once in a while. But in general, he applies his energy and his mind to helping the Beer and Bath be a place that people like to come to - within the limits of his own sense of what is proper. No doubt he gets embarrassed from time to time. Regardless, he works hard to please their boss, Chenna, even when she's not looking. And, he picks up what tidbits he can about the goings-on in town, learning about the inn's patrons as he is able.
Wolfie things: Bill works as well at learning the language of Darkfang and Ferrak. After a few weeks, he can carry on a decent conversation, although certain things still puzzle him until clarified by Ferrak. He even sees if he can start joining in their playtimes - tentative at first, but later getting as rambunctious as the two old friends. He enjoys the challenges and counters, the dodging and dancing. And tries to learn when a growl is real, and when it is play.
Magic and psionic stuff: "Say, guys, I've got an idea. How about a few of us go in together to buy a Heward's Handy Haversack? Then here's what I'd like to do with it. It has two pockets, that each look to hold a quart worth of stuff, but really can hold more. I'd like to have those sewn onto a pair of pants that fit me, then, the rest of the sack - it should hold about 80 pounds, but only weigh maybe 5 or 10 - someone else in the party could carry. Tell you what, I'll check over at the Catacombs, and see if they think such a plan would work. Maybe have them do the work. Anybody wanna go in with me on it? I'll pay, say, 800 or 900, 'cause I'll get the smaller parts, and whoever gets the bag pays 1,100 or 1,200? Boy, it'd be great for bombs from the sky!"
The excited halfling looks around to see if any is interested in yet another way to spend their money. Then he remembers, "Oh, with this haversack, whatever it is you want to get, you just think of it, reach in, and there it is, right the first thing you grab! Of course, you had to put it there in the first place, along with whatever else you wanna store inside," he explains.
Bill, during the month, needs at least twice to take two days off. "Workin' on a project." When he is done, he shows his friends a new crystal ring - "This here helps me to learn and remember certain things better, and other stuff." And, on his forehead, he places a blue gem. "This here helps keep me focused - it helps my concentration. Professor Abulek calls it a 'Third Eye', though I can't claim to see anything better, but, I don't get very distracted if there's something important to do."
He doesn't wear the gem on his forehead in his role as Lake, but does wear the crystalline ring.
Domi's girl: Bill tries to go see Frellin's family once a week. Again, if any want to come with him (especially one of the group's elves or half elves) he is happy for the company. He brings the first week a toy for Shianna, flowers for Kianimar and a good blueberry pie for Frellin. He asks her parents, when out of the little girl's earshot, whether they have had a chance to explain to her what happened to Domi. If they haven't yet, and are willing, Bill asks if they'd like to handle that themselves, or if they would like for Bill to talk with her about his passing. "I've heard some say he will come back. Others quote his words that as long as one of his children lives, so he lives on in them. But all of us should remember his final words: 'Have courage.'"
Bill takes these matters slowly, though, not wishing to overstep his bounds, but also wanting to do what he can to be as much of a friend to them as they are willing, and time will allow... a step at a time. Some weeks he brings a trinket, or a little songbook, or a little puzzle for the girl, and something for her parents. But sometimes he brings nothing but himself. If the little girl asks him what he brought, "Why, myself! Isn't that enough?" He sees if Frellin is open to going for a walk. He asks him how he came to be a lieutenant, and how he likes the work, and answers the lieutenant's questions as he is able, without betraying any confidences.
On bothering Arien, and his other adventuring friends: Bill asks Arien his favorite color, and what kind of animal he would be if he could choose to be one, and what kind of tree he would be, and what his favorite foods are, and whether he has ever fallen in love. He works hard to exasperate him. They've been traveling together off and on for some time now, but the hobbit feels he hardly knows him. So, he works on remedying that.
And similarly with his other friends.
Correspondence Bill writes letters to his family every few days, but a minimum of once a week - filling his letters with observations about interesting people, good pies he has tasted, a silly joke or two, and conversation in family code they used to use to talk about others in their presence without the others knowing they were discussing them. He is careful not to reveal anything about what they are doing for Marcus. He asks about how things are back in Windhorn Hamlet, and everyone's health, etc. His letters are models of joie de vivre and careful discretion.
He also keeps a near-daily journal, in a code he forms for himself.
Roger Tuesday November 27th, 2001 3:21:14 PM
As things start getting back to normal, Roger reminds everyone to return the gear that they were using for the last assignment, if it wasn't used up. "We'll keep these items on reserve, or trade them in, as we see fit when the next item comes up."
At Bill's comments Roger adds, " I have a place already where we can store our gold at least. We also may be able to store items, but I have to check with them to see if I can or not."
Ferrak (Don't take it the wrong way, I'm RPing) Tuesday November 27th, 2001 6:40:54 PM
When Ferrak & Darkfang are greeted by their leader Rond, they each smell his hand in turn.
Ferrak, when he realizes that Rond is the Alpha of this pack, and that the man has some experience with nature, decides to greet him as a wolf would.
First, after shaking his hand firmly and acknowledging the compliment he offers, Ferrak steps close to Rond and steps on his foot. Not forcibly mind you, just to see what Rond does. Ferrak still has a firm grip on Rond's hand. (We could play this out through e-mail, if you wanted.)
When this is finished Ferrak, offers up the slippers of spider climbing that were given to him. As far as a library goes, Ferrak has a gem that was given to him in the Red Wyrm Inn. He offers that to Bill as well. He has nothing else of value, to give.
Spending as much time with Darkfang as possible before it is time to go on this mission, Ferrak is melancholy to say the least. The brothers have never been separated in their lives. The prospect of doing anything without his brother depresses him intensely.
Renik Tuesday November 27th, 2001 6:47:06 PM
"GADZOOKS!" yells Renik when he rises to Bill's water treatment. "I almost had a heart attack there."
All business as the group gets ready for their new mission, as Renik prepares to don his Gullion disguise he notices the morose behavior of the wolf brothers.
"What's wrong with them?" he asks.
"Oh...well. Say, why can only one guard dog come on this mission anyway? Surely there is little difference with two. Aww come on, buck up Ferrak, I'm sure this rich guy has plenty of big juicy bones."
Sunblaze - AKA Sontra - Steven Tuesday November 27th, 2001 10:51:42 PM
Sunblaze willingly donates 100 platinum pieces (1000 gold) towards the library, laughing at Bill's idea. "I was thinking very much the same thing. We might be able to recover some stuff from the Temple of Domi. I don't know if they are going to attempt to keep it up. As well, we'll need a permanent housing. We could buy a place, but is anyone willing to do that? It would be very interesting. Adventurers, with a home, nobody can say it won't be fun." She says with a grin. She checks at the temple, once a week, making sure everything is ok, and checking to see if there is anything she can salvage. She doesn't take anything the group wouldn't need, but she tries to get scrolls and books on whatever topics she can, to help create the library. She even goes with him to the Bookstores, often asking if they need any minor help around. She hopes to make friends with them, like Bill, to get cheaper prices as well as help those who are in need.
"Sorry Bill, I've already got myself a Haversack like that one, but if nobody else wants it, I'll buy it. It would be a good idea, to carry extra things, in case anything happens to the first. Or maybe we could trap some of our enemies inside it. That would be fun to watch. I can just imagine, that bird thing, suddenly trapped inside of the bag." Grinning openly she laughs.
When Bill asks if any want to join him to visit to see Frellin and the other children, Sunblaze goes along. She doesn't exactly know these people, but since Bill says they're ok, they are ok. She seems to have lots of fun with them, and after a while she starts to feel more comfortable with them (only if Bill still wants her to come).
Occasionally, Sunblaze grabs her belt pouch, looking at Bill with a gleam in her eye. When the rest of the group isn't around she pulls out her gems. Nine small ones, red, blue and green gleaming with light. Five slightly larger ones, all yellow. Finally she shows him a fist sized one. It's quite heavy. It shines all the colours of the rainbow, when held up the light properly. She lets Bill see it for a bit, then packs them all away, in her Haversack.
While at the Beer and Bath she works just as hard as before, trying to keep up with her old contacts, including the thieves and such. She tries to sing a song for the crowd, when it's a bit slow, yet she can hardly remember how to keep a proper tune. Perhaps her magics are helping her forget her lesser skills. Yet still she tries to hold on to it.
Steps aka Draax Tuesday November 27th, 2001 11:05:02 PM
During the down time and when not in his Steps disguise, Draax will occasionally visit his light warhorse stabled at Red Dragon Inn. He will ensure that the horse is being treated well and still knows its master. Whenever possible he will take it for short rides.
Steps listens to Chenna as she gives instructions about the delivery. He likes the bubbling tub, telling himself that one day in the far future he will get one for himself. Hearing that they will have to go through the Gladiator Park, Steps is anxious to get started and out of the park before it gets dark.
Lake (Bill) d20+18=37 Tuesday November 27th, 2001 11:51:29 PM Rond's cache "Sounds good, Roger. Sure, check with them." At some moment when the two are alone he asks, "Any place I know?"
Renik's heart "Don't worry, Renik. We have a potion of cure light wounds," Bill assures him. "A heart attack is a light wound, isn't it?"
Interlude catchup Bill thinks his first visit to the elves would be better alone, but for some later visits, he's happy to bring along Sunblaze.
"Thanks, Sunblaze. Just to be sure is that 200 platinum pieces (1,000 gp), or 100 platinum pieces (500 gp)?" he asks the generous elfin mage.
Regarding the haversack, he thanks her again. "I'll let you know what we need to do once I get the info from the Catacombs, or the Black Genie if necessary."
And he 'oos' and 'aahs' over her collection of gemstones. -------
Have bathtub will travel "Very well, Chenna, ma'am," Lake says. "We'll get it there as expeditiously as we are able, for Borisun's sake." Bill memorizes her instructions just about as perfectly as he is able (DC 37).
He wonders about her instructions to have one of the two 'guard dogs' remain, but chooses not to gainsay her. But he does ask, "Uh, what kind of rumors? About the park, I mean?"
Once they leave, and are heading toward the park, Bill places the gemstone on his forehead. He prepares a bag with one each of acid, thunderstone, alchemical fire, and tanglefoot bag. The latter, being the largest, he places at the bottom of the bag. He comments to his friends, "I'm not sure I'm too excited about going through the park that contains the arena in which the Dark Lord made his appearance. Bad taste that left in my mouth. Any ideas on things we might do to prepare?"
Tamosvar (Arien) Wednesday November 28th, 2001 1:56:17 AM Catching up
"Ah, I was always partial to green, and gold as the colors go. Green because when surrounded by the near universal gray of the city," Arien says while gesturing outside with one hand. "I can remember the smell of the forest, the sounds and its aura. Gold is another matter completely though, gold to me represents opportunity, chance, and adventure. As for an animal, maybe a weasel, I respect their cunning and resourcefulness. After all," he adds with a chuckle, "they are almost as good as me. I was always partial to the willow, where the oak will be shattered in the storm the willow will bend and live. A most useful trait I would say, one that would come in very handy in the current time. Well I always liked a block of well-aged cheese, and I suspect you are as well, seeing how you bludgeoned someone unconscious with a block. Love, my friend, is a very broad term. I love the thrill of battle, of testing wits and abilities against others. I love adventure, the discovery and flinging our fate to fortune, and the freedom of choice. I love a good tune and a well-written piece of poetry. As for attaching my affections upon another to the degree I believe you mean, nay, I have not. I suspect that I will not be given the luxury of doing so at least until the actions of that night have run until their full conclusion."
Present
"I would hate to be in that thing if someone tripped the spell by accident, it would definitely be a tight fit." Pulling Bill aside, "How many charges are left on that wand of yours? I think that if you can manage it that you should, before we enter the Park that you should use a charge on each of our burdens. It would be bad form to just drop them and harder than a chunk of mithril to fight while carrying them, and I suspect that we will be attacked there. A good chance for you know who to get revenge on us."
Satisfied that he conveyed his feelings on the matter Arien returns to the group and claps his hands together and rubs them for a moment. "Right right, well then I shall carry a basket of foodstuffs and worry not about me dropping a bit milady, why I hit a grape at twenty paces with my dagger once. Come on now lads lets get a goin' no need to dawdle." Arien walks over to one of the hampers and picks it up. Then, throwing a meaningful glance at Bill, he waits for the others with an air of distraction as he is fully into his disguise as Tamosvar.
La la la la Life Goes On (DM Donna) Wednesday November 28th, 2001 7:35:36 AM
Interlude Resolution:
Lake is hired as a toter and Chenna is very pleased with the halfling's (OOC: Lake IS a halfling, right?) work ethic. The rest of the Hamleteers find the routine of their cover jobs a welcome change from the life-and-death situations they'd been finding themselves in lately.
While the word on the street is all a-buzz about the rise of the Cult Gods (most notably of Marteaus), there is also a persistent current of information that says that the Sons of Dread are, themselves, all but gone from the City. The pyramid that the Hamleteers had traced the organization to was definitely deserted, and all the various spellcasters that were present at the site of Domi's death have disappeared. The mysterious disappearances of the poor and homeless have, by and large, stopped.
Shianna and family--now free of the Dark Lord's influence--thrive happily in their home. The little girl has been told, very carefully, that Domi is dead... but, apparently, chooses to completely disregard the facts. Shianna often expresses the hope that she will get to meet the "Bright Man" again. And, always, the child is happy to see Bill whenever he comes to visit.
There are many places that a permanent library/laboratory for the Hamleteers can be located. Careful research into the market and locations is recommended for the best place for the best price. Many of the sites, sadly, were former places dedicated to Domi. There is not much left of anything in any of those places.
Bill finds that speaking Lupine is an acquired Skill. (OOC: gotta spend that Skill point if you wanna know the language!)
As the finishing touches are made to the portable feast that the Hamleteers are charged with delivering and setting up, Darkfang consoles his brother:
Don't mope, big brother! You know as well as I do that not every member of the pack always goes on the hunt... SOMEbody must stay and guard the den while the others are away. This just happens to be one of those times that I have to guard instead of hunt. The disguised wolf sits on his haunches and scratches behind one ear. Besides... YOU'RE the one who'll be present when the other pack feeds--what I wouldn't give to pick over the leavings after they're done..! Darkfang licks his chops.
Lake / Bill Troublefinder Wednesday November 28th, 2001 2:04:41 PM Language progress. 'Woof woof!' Bill's progress in learning vulpine seems relatively unhindered. [OOC: Look at the last character sheet I sent you, Donna - you'll see under the Skills that he did spend a skill point on the language of wolves.]
Appreciation, and change, and books Shortly after Ferrak gives Bill the gem, Bill runs into him over at the Red Wyrm Inn. "Hey Ferrak, Darkfang." In the tongue of the wolf, he asks how they are doing. He tells Ferrak, too, that he found what the gem was worth. "So, because I want to honor your desire to help buy some of the books, I'll keep a small portion of it. It was worth 100 gp, and I got it changed. But you can't be without funds. Here's 90 gold pieces, so you've got at least something to spend. And that 10 gp should get us a good book or two."
So, armed with 760 to 1,260 gp (depending upon whether Sunblaze gave him 200 platinum pieces or 100), Bill sees what sorts of books are available. He holds some in reserve for good, solid bookshelves.
'Return the gear'? Lake is puzzled at Roger's request to 'return the gear' they were using for the last assignment. "What gear do you mean? Did we borrow something from somebody? The stuff I gave to you guys you can keep and use if you want. If you don't want it anymore, I'll take it back, but not if you wanna hang on to it. Was there something else you were talking about, Roger?"
Money matters "Hey, I'm thinking something else. With the announcements about Sturdavent stepping aside for the Council, maybe if anybody has anything they're keeping at the castle ought to go there and withdraw their money, and get any certificates changed into gems or gold or something worthwhile, because who knows whether someone won't say, 'All right, that was while Sturdavent was High Lord Mayor, but now the money's ours'? I already got my certificates, and cashed 'em in."
Finding our own place? Bill will make discrete inquiries here and there, in various guises (as a halfling, gnome, or dwarf), trying to learn two or three of the best available places. He'll report back to his friends. Maybe they can do some checking, too.
A Sudden Insight On A Child's Faith About two weeks after the rescue, Bill mentions to Rond, "Hey, remember when Shianna said," and he switches to the elvish she used, "'The Bright Man can save us! He can, he can!!!'?" The halfling looks at Rond. "Remember what happened next?" He pauses a beat. "The sun appeared. Nice and bright. Just when she called upon Domi - the 'Bright Man'. Oh, sure, you can call it coincidence, fortuitous timing. But I would hesitate to deny that her faith was somehow tied into the perfect timing of the sun's rising." Another pause. "Just a thought, Rond, just a thought." He waggles his eyebrows and goes back to work. He mentions this thought to Frellin and Kianimar when next he sees them.
Green-Gold-Weasel-Willow-Cheese-liker-Adventure-lover-Poetry aficionado Arien Bill really likes Arien's answers to his questions.
Lightening the Load Regarding Arien's/Tamosvar's question about his wand of levitation, Bill reports he has 16 charges left. "And after that, it'd be nice if we could buy another one. It's handy!" But he agrees to cast levitation on the heavier burdens. "Actually, if we stack several things and tie them down, then levitate the whole bundle, maybe I can do it with one charge. I'm gonna do it to myself, too, just in case we run into trouble." Before they leave, Bill empties some of the bulkier things from his bag of holding, and places some of the things they need to carry in that. On their return he plans to replace them to the bag.
He will not do the levitation where others outside of members of the party will be able to see them. "Okay, let's get across Gladiator park before sundown, like our boss told us!" And 'Lake' sets off at a brisk walk.
Ferrak Wednesday November 28th, 2001 5:10:03 PM
Listening to his brother, Ferrak nods his head and goes through the motions to convince his brother that he understands. He is a wolf after all, but deep down he isn't convinced. In the middle of a city, leaving his brother behind when that city is crawling with evil, falling apart. The natural balance of things is way off here, he can smell it, and Ferrak just does not feel comfortable without his brother by his side.
Once again however, Ferrak is reminded of his duty. Placing the collar around his neck so as not to arouse suspicion, Ferrak sits next to the parcels to be carried and keeps his eyes peeled.
Renik d20+8=14 Wednesday November 28th, 2001 5:16:49 PM
Enjoying his guise as Gullion, Renik oversees the preparations, as the group gets ready to leave. (Disguise-14)
Stooped over as only the truly unhealthy do Gullion sips from a bottle of wine as they get ready to go. Picking at the flakiness of his skin, the repulsive business man smiles greasily at any who walk past. Renik chuckles inwardly at the effectiveness of his disguise. Nobody looks twice at a scumbag.
Steps (Draax) Wednesday November 28th, 2001 9:56:50 PM
Seeing Tamosvar lift one of the bags, Step goes over and tests the weight of the crate before picking it up. He waits for the others to pick up their burdens before departing.
Mean Mr. Mustard (DM Donna) Thursday November 29th, 2001 8:22:37 AM
(OOC: Topics like searching for sites & stocking a research lab/library will have to wait until after this particular Scene finishes.)
Chenna busily doublechecks the hampers of food and how the assigned employees (a.k.a. the Hamleteers) are organizing themselves to carry the food and the crate that turns into the bubbling tub.
"Just about done..." she trills in anticipation, then turns to the group, "...just one more tray of elven-style pate appetizers and you'll be ready to go." She bustles off to the kitchen to get the munchies in question.
You'll do well on this hunt, big brother! Darkfang assures Ferrak. I think I smell liver..!
Ferrak Thursday November 29th, 2001 6:24:51 PM
Smelling the air, Ferrak gives a few barks for luck as the group gets ready to go.
"Woof! Woof! Woof!" Bill understands most of it although I'm sure it will take him some time to master this strange new language.
(The full moon shines on us brother, where ever we both might be. Take care, I love you, and save the biggest bones for me.)
Renik Thursday November 29th, 2001 6:28:42 PM
While it looks like Gullion is drinking massive amounts of wine on this early morning, Renik is taking little sips and keeping alert.
Stumbling along with the packs he makes a few lewd comments here and there just to get in the swing of things.
"Come on you slackers let's get this show on the road." Not a likeable fellow at all, this Gullion. Renik chuckles to himself.
Bill Troublefinder Friday November 30th, 2001 1:02:14 AM
"Ooooh - elven-style pate. Do they raise fat geese, too?" Bill assists. The consolidation and levitation of the things he will do once out of eyesight of the Beer & Bath, and before the Gladiator Park.
[No problem on waiting until after this delivery & party for resolution of additional things. I just didn't want Bill to appear idle ;-) ]
I've Got My Mind Set On You (DM Donna)(not a Beatles song title, but one supplied in respectful memory of the late George Harrison Friday November 30th, 2001 7:07:50 AM
Chenna makes sure that last tray of pate is secured and reiterates how VERY important pleasing Borisun is to her--he's a very wealthy man, and knows a majority of her wealthier clients, so a bad opinion from him will have a ripple effect and impact her reputation with the others.
"Go quickly now," she bids the group, "Be mindful of the food and that tub... be polite and accommodating to Borisun... and, most of all, get in andout of Gladiator Park as soon as you can. I want his business--but I also want my employees live and in one piece, too! Now, go!" Chenna shoos the Hamleteers away, lest you all think she's being sentimental.
Roger (Rond) Friday November 30th, 2001 2:40:13 PM
Helping out as best he can, he helps with the final preps of gettiing the group underway. "Steps, you're with me on the tub". Roger decides to let the others make their own decisions about what to carry and what not.
Lake (Bill) d20+4=21 Friday November 30th, 2001 5:01:04 PM It ain't heavy, it's my bundle Lake (as mentioned twice earlier), once out of eyesight and earshot of the Beer and Bath, and in a reasonably secluded spot, lays his already roped battle net down, has his friends assemble the various things together on top of it. Some items he places in his backpack (amazing what will fit in there). The grouped items he ties down together with silk rope and the second of his three battle nets on top, and casts levitate on the lot. On the front he has a long loop of rope, tied down at the two front corners, and on the back, likewise, a long loop of rope attached to the back two corners. [Use rope 21.] He has the whole thing levitate (Bill, as he cast the spell, controls the rising or falling of the load) to a few feet off the ground. Someone can be in front to pull, and someone behind to help guide and apply the brakes as necessary. (An object in motion tends to remain in motion. An object at rest tends to remain at rest.) "Roger, Tamosvar, Gullion, Steps - maybe one of you can take the front, and one the rear. Sunblaze and I are kinda small for this. C'mon, boy," he says to Ferrak, and in the lupine tongue says, "Sorry, friend - we have to play our parts. Maybe you can sniff out what might be ahead of us in the path we take."
Delivery prep Lake has his third battle net properly folded and draped over his shoulders. Tucked into one side of his belt is a bag of goodies. He adds a flask of holy water to the other four items in the bag. In the other side he tucks one of his pouches with flasks and potions in it, and spends a few minutes as they walk along organizing them for easy access. He doublechecks his darts, too, then casts levitation on himself. He places a gem on his forehead, and releases his two ioun stones from his pouch, so that they take up orbits around his head. "Okay, let's go get this party started." Lake walks near the front, and lets the bigger guys move the levitated load. As the group walks up and down little hills, Lake will make sure the altitude of the load changes to accommodate the variance.
Contingent light If it starts getting dark enough out for them to need light, Lake will activate the power he calls 'my light' (20' cone of light emanating from Lake's eyes, lasts one hour). In the area surrounding the halfling with the crooked mouth, a 60-Hz quiet hum is evident, notable only if the environs are fairly quiet. [It's not dark yet, is it, Donna?]
(Hey Bill, it's a good thing that you learned how to speak wolven! It'd be even worse with Darkfang left behind and nobody to talk to.)
Circling the group a few times with nervous energy, Ferrak runs ahead of the group runs back , runs ahead again, and sits waiting with his tongue hanging out of his mouth.
"Woof. Woof?" (My brother's nose is better than mine. I have to rely on my eyes & ears. It isn't as good but it will have to do, eh?)
Then in his broken common. "Rrrond, do you want me to hunt ahead, or follow behind." For now Ferrak tries to accomplish both and expends some of his nervous energy running around the group.
Steps (Draax) Sunday December 2nd, 2001 11:09:19 AM
Following Lake's suggestion, Steps goes to the front of the floating bundle and make it look like he is carrying it, but he uses his hand to help steer it.
He is glad that he will be able to take his hands away from the bundle in the hurry if the need arises without damaging it by dropping it.
As they journey to the destination, Steps cannot stop himself from smiling as he watches 'Ferrak the dog' running around the group.
Gullion (Renik) d20+23=34 d20+13=30 Monday December 3rd, 2001 5:51:23 AM
Still playing the part of the unsavory Gullion. Renik decides that it might be a good idea to have somebody hidden in case of ambush. Saying as much to the others in a whisper or with thieves cant if anyone understands the secret language of rogues.
Pretending to relieve himself upon a wall, Renik hides in the shadows of the alley. With the help of his cloak he dissapears from sight. (34)
Pulling his bow, and notching an arrow, Renik follows stealthily. (30)
With a Little Help from my Friends (DM Donna) Monday December 3rd, 2001 7:39:18 AM
Between the organizing and Lake/Bill's use of his levitation wand, the food and crate with the tub in it are relatively easy to transport, and the delivery force makes pretty good time across the city and into Gladiator Park, which--surprisingly enough--still appears to be a favored location for walkers, children and the odd picnicker.
Physically, the park is pretty much the same as it always was, but there's something in the air that makes it obvious to you that the park is no longer the playground of just the living. The sound of the wind reminds you of the sigh of eternal longing. The shadows cast by the trees and statues seem to shift--but when you look directly at them, they are still. Nothing seems threatening--but neither does everything appear to be 100% normal.
A trio of children are playing Monkey-in-the-Middle, tossing a cap between two of them as the third attempts to snatch the cap... but upon closer observation, it becomes apparent that all three of the laughing youngsters are the "monkeys"--an invisible hand teases them by dangling the cap just out of reach of the three.
None of the children are alarmed by this. In fact, when a voice calls them home to supper, the trio are very disappointed. They ask for the cap back from their spectral friend, who obligingly tosses it to them, and run out of the park. As they pass you, they shout that sunset is coming, so you'd better hurry, 'cuz all the friendly ghosts go home when it gets dark!
Indeed, the party is only two-thirds the way through the park when there is a decided chill in the air. It isn't quite sunset yet, but the rapidly-approaching twilight is beginning to transform the vaguely-spooky atmosphere of the park to a place that has a subconsciously-threatening air. Just about everyone who had been in the park either is gone or hurrying to leave.
"Liiiiiiiiverrrrrrrrr..." sighs a ghostly voice, "...I smell liiiiiiiiverrrrrr..."
"Pate!" replies a different voice. "It's elven-style pate..!" Nobody is in sight.
"It's been 300 years since I've had pate!" a third speaker, still unseen, chimes in.
A half-elf man, hand-in-hand with a pretty human woman, hurries past you all.
"If you're carrying food, you'd better run with that stuff for the exit!" he calls to you, obviously having overheard the ghost voices. "The spirits will want the food--but they slime everything they touch! They ruined the last picnic we tried to have heeeeeerrrrrrre..." He and the woman are practically running out of the park now, not wanting to caught within the area once it truly becomes dark.
The Hamleteers find themselves three-quarters of the way through the park now, but the spirits they've been warned about suddenly materialize between them and the exit gate.
"Fooooood... delicious, scrumptious foooooood...!" the spirits sigh, making clear their intent to get your food BEFORE you get out of the park!
(OOC: I have attempted to publish the map of the area and your relative positions on the web. The link to the site is supposed to be:
OOC: Note from Kim about map address Monday December 3rd, 2001 9:40:18 AM [OOC: For the map address, try: http://hometown.aol.com/donnlap/myhomepage/ which will then redirect you to: http://members.aol.com/_ht_a/donnlap/myhomepage/
I tried printing the page, but it wouldn't work from my home computer - which may not be the page's fault. Am occasionally having printing problems on this PC.
One more note: In general, and according to lore, some spirits are earthbound, and some are not.]
Renik Monday December 3rd, 2001 6:27:59 PM
Stepping out of the shadows, reaalizing that his arrows probably would have little effect, Renik yells to his companions. "If they want food give them food!" then grabbing the wine that he was drinking before, Renik tosses it off to the left out of their way. Then grabbing some bread and cheese that he was saving for later, Renik launches them far to the right.
"Woof, woof, woof!" It's just what you are supposed to say when spirits are about.
Ferrak has no food on him, and so is watching the spirits to see what they do. He pulls out his spear and gets ready to move.
Arien Monday December 3rd, 2001 8:29:07 PM
As the ghosts appear several thoughts run through Arien's mind. "What I wouldn't give for a good cleric right now." and "They're not getting MY liver." and finally, "Marcus better give us a nice big fat bonus for this."
Then seeing what Renik is doing Arien follows suit and start pitching whatever food he can dig out of his pack off to right as far as he can, hoping that the travel rations will distract the spirits long enough for the party to get by and in the clear.
Steps (Draax) Monday December 3rd, 2001 8:42:37 PM
Noticing the ghostly figures and hearing Renik's yell, Steps cringes at the thought of throwing away his food. Seeing Arien following Renik's lead, Steps does likewise reaching into his backpack and chucking his food far to the side. His thoughts follows the same pattern as Arien, 'If they only had a cleric or he would even tolerate a Paladin at this point.'
Lake (Bill Troublefinder) Monday December 3rd, 2001 10:11:32 PM
Just a wee bit earlier, as the ghostly voices began calling for food, Lake initiated my light, causing his eyes to shine brightly, illuminating the air before him - although such illumination may not presently be necessary since there still seems adequate light. Immediately after that, harkening to the spirits' call for food, he pulled his block of cheese out. He began digging divots in it with his dagger, forming little pockets inside. As they moved quickly down the path, he stuck the dagger into the cheese, poured liquid from some of his flasks into the hollowed out places, then covered the tops over with some of the cheese he had dug out. Just about the time that the famished spirits materialize, he had nearly unstoppered his third flask. No more time to finish that task.
The big guys have been moving the load briskly, obedient both to Chenna and the half-elf back there. Lake, his eyes blazing bright above his crooked smile, takes a quick step behind, then bounces up just above the load of food. He wedges his toes beneath the top net, and causes both the load and himself to levitate upwards, the mass maintaining its forward movement. "Wait below, and I'll send you food from the sky! First, this fine aged cheese. Tell me, fine spirits, who will sample the cheese? I'll send it your way."
[OOC: Donna, I figure we were moving at least at a trot, heeding the half-elf's admonition to hurry. So allowing for the movement of the slowest character, that would likely be movement of 40-50 - maybe you can clarify the speed in your next post. Thanks - Kim]
Help! (DM Donna) Tuesday December 4th, 2001 6:50:00 AM
(OOC: D'OH! I'm VERY new at this website/page/html crap...Kim is right, though, the addy to get the map site is:
http://members.aol.com/_ht_a/donnlap/myhomepage/
Now...on with the game...)
"Cheese..!" sighs spirit #4--a female dressed in clothes that were the height of fashion about 150 years ago. "How long it's been since I've nibbled at an aromatic cheddar..!"
"It IS the perfect appetizer." agrees #5, a dwarf whose fine attire looks as though it has been stained in the front.
"Bah! I want that pate!" insists #1.
"I smell fresh rolls!" chimes in #7.
All eight spirits close in on the food that the Hamleteers are supposed to deliver to Chenna's best client--the one that she has given you very specific orders to make sure is pleased with her spread. It's rather doubtful that any living person will want slime-covered food.
(OOC: the webpage (and I'm assuming that it's supposed to be the address above) has been updated to reflect that the spirits are closer to the food now--the party is going to have to do something drastic, it looks like.
Oh--and I suppose that the group's top speed is about 30 feet...that large bundle isn't heavy, but it's still kind of unwieldy, and I'm sure that one of the party members with his feet on the ground has his hands on the bundle in order to make sure that it doesn't just float away, too.)
Lake (Bill Troublefinder) d20=14 Tuesday December 4th, 2001 9:24:24 AM
Using the handle of the embedded dagger to provide leverage and thrust, Lake flips the two pounds of spiked cheese over towards spirits #1 & #2. "Appetizer for you - catch." The liquid inside the large cheese cube is from two flasks worth of holy water. [Rolled unadjusted 14 - don't know whether to add bonuses 'to hit' as he's not really throwing it with full force as a attack per se, but rather more gently, so as to make it easy for one of them - more likely #2 - to catch it.] Lake tucks the dagger away, and unstoppers the flask he was working on a moment ago. That in one hand, he pulls out another flask, unstoppering it with his teeth.
[Lake/Bill's map position should have changed to be between where Draax and Renik are on the map - as that is where I picture the netted food bundle being. He is on top of it, and is trying to levitate upwards, again, his feet thrust under the netting on top.]
[Shawn - go to the Loot 'n Booty, and roll 5d100. In honor of your fine play of Renik, I'm passing on the fruits of my d100=100 roll to you. -Kim]
Gullion/ Renik (Carl) d20+2=15 Tuesday December 4th, 2001 9:25:40 AM
Addressing the rapidly approaching ghostly contingent, Gullion pipes up "Well of course you want pate. Displays wossname, culture, that does, don't it? Always a pleasure to meet cultured members of the respiratorialy challenged community like yerselves. But if might be so bold; bein' folks of culture, like, ye'll be aware that nothing prepares the wossname, palate, like a good drop o' red. An' just over there" Gullion gesticulates towards the discarded bottle of wine over to his right "is the finest drop o' red you are ever likely to 'ave the pleasure o' tastin'. That, my friends, is Chateau de la Mont St Rompigny, '46! Only 500 bottles were ever made! That stuff retails at over 200 GP a bottle! Men have been known ta sell their entire families for just one sweet taste! Now if you really want to make that pate taste like wossname, nectar of the gods, ye'll be wanting a splash o' the old Rompigny afore you tuck in, am I right? Eh? Eh? But one at a time, ladies an' gents, no jumping the queue!"
He leers cheerily at the spectral gastronomes, hoping against hope that they fall for his ruse (Bluff 15), and make a mad dash to be first to the bottle. In case they don't his hand settles surreptitiously on the hilt of his concealed rapier...
(OOC: I'm back! One MCP passed! Many, many thanks, Shawn, you've done a fabulous job with Renik (with the possible exception of "Gadzooks!" ;-) I owe you one!)
Not sure whether his spear will affect these apparitions, Ferrak readies his spear for their coming.
(Hip, Hip, Hurrah! The real Renik has entered the building. Odds bodkins, it's good to have you back. Now I can drop my really bad English accent, I was hoping it would hurry you up.:-)
Steps (Draax) Tuesday December 4th, 2001 11:18:53 PM
Noticing that the food he discarded is being ignored; Steps becomes very upset with himself and the ghost. With himself for throwing away the food and the ghosts for not have the decency of taking his offer.
Of all the things that Steps expected on this delivery, he never expected that he might have to fight ghosts to protect the food. As he listens to the others formulate their plans he hold back from pulling his sword. He is relieved as he feels the bundle being lifted out of his hands, if he does have to fight at least he will not have to worry about food.
Strawberry Fields Forever (DM Donna) d20=12 d8=8 Wednesday December 5th, 2001 7:40:43 AM
(OOC: I've made adjustments to the map again and changed the positions of the Spirits and the Hamleteers a bit. Take a look and plan accordingly.)
"Wiiiiiiine..!" the spirits are equally divided, it seems, between snagging the wine and fielding Bill's cheese, not noticing that Bill and the bundle have levitated up to a height of about 15 feet so far.
Spirits 1 through 4 orient on Bill's cheese--with #4 grabbing the aromatic dairy product up and attempting to eat it. The slimed cheese falls to the ground--but the holy water within the stuff does 8hp damage to the Spirit, who screams in surprise.
Spirits 5 through 8 all try to jump on the wine Renik/Guillon has offered--#7 lucks out and snags the wine, gulping at it, but the liquid simply splashes through the spirit's incorporeal body, landing as a puddle of slimey wine.
None of the apparitions are interested in the preserved foodstuffs that were offered--apparently it's just the freshly-prepared food that is getting their attention.
That and the wine.
Spectral hands claw at the bundled-up food, the spirits intent upon assuaging their eternal hunger...
Lake (Bill) - Splish-Splash d20+7=17 d20+5=18 2d4(2+4)=6 2d4(2+1)=3 Wednesday December 5th, 2001 9:04:08 AM
Lake unstoppers the second flask, then tosses flasks and contents - holy water - down upon spirits #1 (AC 17, ranged touch, 6 hp damage) and #2 (AC 18, 3 hp damage). "The rest of the food is not for you. If you leave us be tonight, we can make arrangements for a feast for you tomorrow night. Otherwise, we oppose you." He draws out something else.
[Holy water does 2d4 damage per flask.]
OOC: Hey, if you'd rather, I can just rule that the Holy Water missed altogether... ;D
Gullion d20+2=17 Wednesday December 5th, 2001 12:02:51 PM
"Ah, true conny-sewers" grins Gullion, as he shoves mightily at the bundled floating food parcel, attempting to keep it moving past the ethereal figures towards the exit.
"Them that want to taste a drop more o' that good stuff, there's a fella back thataway" (he indicates back down the path, the way they came) that was sellin' the stuff. That an' the finest single malt I ever did see, too pricey for me, but then maybe you folks could persuade him ta part with a dram. An' the smell o' the wossname, fwah grargh he was sellin' (you know, that fancy foreign pate, wot they get out o' stuffin geese with normal pate), well I tell ya, I damn near sold the clothes off me back for a taste. Smelled like wossname, ambrosia or whatever you call it. Not like this old muck" (he gesticulates at the floating food parcel) "this was real prime grade quality tucka, an' no mistakin'. Not ta mention his selection of rare Woldian cheeses. If you hurry you might catch him."
Gullion continues to babble away, desperate to deflect the attention of the ghosts long enough for the group to make their gettaway (Bluff 17).
Ferrak d100=88 Wednesday December 5th, 2001 5:10:13 PM
Not sure what to do Ferrak uses the innate ability of illusion deep within him. From the direction that Renik/Gullion is pointing come the smells of fine wine & cheese. (Armor check 88 for Prestidigitation)
"Mmmm...they're grrreat!" he yells sniffing at the air to get the spirits' attention.
Steps (Draax) Wednesday December 5th, 2001 10:51:50 PM
If the ghosts take the bait and gives the group a clear path through them, Steps will move quickly up the path staying need or under the bundle taking caution to avoid touching any of the ghosts.
If a path is not cleared Steps will put his hands to on his sword and pull it halfway to out of its sheath to follow-up on Lake's threat of opposing them.
The Long and Winding Road (DM Donna) d20=13 d20=18 d20=8 d20=8 d20=12 d20=10 d20=2 d20=19 Thursday December 6th, 2001 7:18:23 AM
The party takes the initiative to head for the exit, their intention to get this movable feast out of the slimey clutches of the ever-hungry ghosts obvious to some of the spirits...but most of them are fooled by the bluff about the merchant Gullion spoke of.
"Fois gras! I MUST have some!"
"But there's elven-style pate right HERE..."
"Bah! Pate! It's been an elven dog's age since I had a decent single malt!"
"More cheese? OOOOOOO..."
"Better than THIS yucky stuff, I should hope!"
"Malt 'n' cheese? Sign ME up!"
"My kingdom for a decent Brie..!"
"Isn't that why you died the first time around..???"
The party is off and running even as the spirits argue amongst themselves--and even as numbers 1 & 2 suffer more damage from the holy water that Bill launches at them.
It's getting darker, and the exit gate that leads to the Gold Quarter and, ultimately, to Borisun the very wealthy client. Another thirty or forty feet and you'll be out of the park.
Lake (Bill) Thursday December 6th, 2001 10:36:29 AM
As the ghosts stop to argue, once the load moves forward enough, Lake lowers it down to where his friends can push and pull it. He remains on top of the load, alert for any more obstacles, eyes still alight, sweeping around like a beacon. He holds a dart in one hand, a flask in the other.
Gullion d20+7=17 Thursday December 6th, 2001 11:37:43 AM
Keeping quiet so as not to disrupt the spectral debate, Gullion continues to push the parcel along as fast as he is able towards the exit, keeping a wary eye out for any further trouble (Spot 17).
Ferrak d100=86 Thursday December 6th, 2001 6:40:51 PM
Watching the groups escape, Ferrak wants to make sure none of the ghosts follow them.
To go along with Renik's excellent bluff, the smells of wine, food and cheese that the prestidigitation is creating, Ferrak once again falls back upon his innate gnomish abilities.
Scrunching his face up in concentration, the feral gnome points back into the park. Sounds of a party going on are heard, as wine glasses tinkle together and bottles of champagne start popping off all over the place. (Armor check = 86 Ghost sound 35 ft behind the group. I just wanted to use a 'Ghost' sound:-)
Just before they leave the park, Ferrak pauses to feel the grass beneath his feat. Rolling around for a bit he wishes he were here for pleasurable reasons and had Darkfang with him to enjoy them.
Steps Thursday December 6th, 2001 8:02:12 PM
Steps will begin to help pushing the bundle toward the exit as soon as it is low enough for him to get his hands on it.
Something... (DM Donna) Friday December 7th, 2001 6:38:24 AM
The Hamleteers know there's a time to fight... and a time for flight--and it's flying time now. The party takes this opportunity to haul their load out of the park... just in time, too, because now the sun has completely sunk out of sight, and the sounds that emanate from Gladiator Park are decidedly less amusing than an argument over the merits of elven-style pate.
Steps Sunday December 9th, 2001 4:53:53 PM
Steps takes a looks back at the exit to the park just to ensure himself that none of the creatures followed them.
"That was good thinking back there guys, lets get this stuff to Borisun. With everything going on in the city, I wonder if Chenna is charging her customers extra for the risk it takes to deliver." Steps says the last part as if he was just thinking out loud.
Steps scans the area to make sure that nothing else is around to harass the group.
Gullion d20+7=22 d20+23=33 Sunday December 9th, 2001 5:15:36 PM
Gullion grins at his companion. "If she is charging extra, do you not think it would be 'in character' for us to ask for danger money? I confess, a little extra gold is always welcome, and I think this night we've earned it!"
Looking back towards Gladiator Park, shrouded now in deepest shadow as night falls, the grin fades and an unreadable expression settles over the disguised spy's features for a moment. Then, with a slight shake of his head he frowns, as if trying to clear his thoughts, and smiles once more at Steps. "I agree; let's get this stuff delivered. These are dangerous times, and night most dangerous of all. Let us complete our task and return as swiftly as we are able."
He pulls his hood up over his head, his face vanishing into shadow, and slips on ahead of the group, keeping a keen eye out for potential trouble (Spot 22) whilst seeming to melt into the night (Hide 33).
Tamosvar Sunday December 9th, 2001 6:33:29 PM
Looking back the way the party has just fled from Tamosvar shakes his head in relief and concentrates for the moment at guiding his package. At the mention of danger pay he puts in his own opinion on that matter, "Well the lady isn't really the one we should be asking for money here. We should ask our...real employer if he ever plans to pay us. I mean after the hideout, the arena showdown, the mad paladins, and now with this group of pate craving spirits I suspect we are in line with a good deal of pay."
Ferrak Sunday December 9th, 2001 6:44:11 PM
"Woof."
Translates to: 'I trust not the grin of that rascal moon, especially on this night when spirits move against us.'
Lake (Bill Troublefinder) Monday December 10th, 2001 12:14:45 AM
Bill is relieved to pass out the gates of the park at last. "Well, you know, now we get to come here tomorrow night at dusk, with more food," he says, the crooked smile bent upward beneath his shining eyes. "I told the ghosts if they left us alone, that I'd see about getting them some tomorrow. Though in a way I now regret the promise, I do not wish to break it. If anyone wants to come with me then, just let me know."
Following the directions that Chenna gave, he makes sure the party travels out to Gold Street, to the house of Borisun. Assuming no further obstacles, Lake knocks at the entryway of the manor.
From Us to You (DM Kim) Monday December 10th, 2001 1:00:45 AM
Borisun's house is on Gold Street proper, and a model of modern Plateau City architecture - sound construction, solid lines, but with artistic points, and pleasant to behold. If it took any damage from the recent rioting, none is in evidence to the Beer & Bath delivery crew.
A servant greets the group as they arrive. As he learns you are from the Beer & Bath, he says, "Master Borisun is expecting you. Come this way, please."
[Each character make a spot check, DC 12.]
As the servant leads you in, other servants are seen busily making last minute preparations, polishing, cleaning areas that already look clean, and carrying burdens to and fro. "He did well on his last two shipments of spice, and is throwing a party for some of his best customers, as well as others in his ... oh here we are," the servant says, cutting off his comments as you arrive in a hexagonal room, 30' across, with six passages leading into it. A half elf in the center of the room directs others, answering questions, all with a jovial, yet efficient air. He wears fine clothing such as the merchants who deal with high-end clientele might wear.
"Ah, welcome, welcome. Chenna sent you all, right?" he asks. "I am Borisun. Welcome to my home. She tells me she would send some WONderful dishes, and that special surprise, eh? Well, come this way, come this way. Jules, you introduced yourself? No? This is Jules," he nods towards the man who met you at the entrance, "and he'll show you where to set things up."
Walking down the western passage, the crew is lead into a room festooned with exotic plants, some with blooming flowers, and pleasant arboreal scents. Jules indicates what looks like a freshly built and strong wooden platform. "I am told that the Beer and Bath sent a special item, and we built the platform to Chenna's specifications." As a matter of fact, a carpenter is finishing up the sanding down a railing along the edge of the platform.
"Go ahead and set things up, and we will help you as we are able." He calls over three of the four servants in the room. "This is the group from the Beer & Bath. I will allow them to introduce themselves to you," he says to his crew. But he introduces the present members of his staff, "This is Blueberry," he nods towards a pretty half elf, who gives a shy curtsy, "Grady," the human carpenter, who blows some dust off the railing, and offers a friendly salute with his index finger, "Zalaza," another half elf, a female with handsome features, who nods her head towards Steps, "and Peppo," and the gnome gives a polite half bow to the party, winking at Lake as he concludes his bow. Peppo claps his hands together. "All right, the food goes on these two tables."
Jules stops to speak with Borisun, who watches over the proceedings with good grace and an air of anticipation. Then the head servant excuses himself to return to the entrance.
Gullion d20+7=24 d20+7=15 d20+2=10 Monday December 10th, 2001 5:56:32 AM
The hunched and crooked form of Gullion enters the wealthy merchant's abode grinning ingratiatingly. To the servant who greets them he says "Ah, my thanks, friend, 'tis unsafe these days to walk the streets at night. Cut throats an' bandits and the dead come back to life an' all manner o' evil an' wickedry walks the streets in these strange times. It's fair enough ta turn a fella ta drink! Am I wrong? Eh?"
He grins and nudges the fellow annoyingly in the ribs, winking and gurning, but this meaningless wittering serves merely as a cover. Gullion uses the distraction caused by the other man's distaste at his physical state, atire and breath to get a good look at the servant and the building in which the party find themselves (Spot 24).
Gullion falls silent as they are brought into Borrisun's presence. When told that the servant's name is Jules Gullion grins at the fellow again, elbowing him in the ribs once more. "Jules, is it? Powerful thirsty work it is, Jules, fetching parcels o' food at this time o' night!" he whispers, winking again.
As they are led into the plant room and told of the 'special item' Gullion's face falls. "Special item? Special item? Boss, ya never told me about no special item!" His voice takes on a whiney, nasal quality. "Nobody never tells me nuffin'! 'Oh, it's only Gullion, no need ta tell him.' S'not fair, I tell ya!"
He wheedles his way up to Jules' side and grins again; "Well at least you're me pal, eh Jules? Wass this 'special item' then? Eh? Eh? Wass the platform for? What does it do?"
Once again his actions cover a cool, analytical appraisal of the room and its contents (Spot 15, Int 10) as he attempts to work out what the platform might be for.
When introduced to the Blueberry, Grady, Zalaza and Peppo he smooths his greasy hair, wipes his hands on his filthy robes, and bows creakily. "Evenin' all, Gullion's the name. Fair pleasure to make yer wossname, acquaintance." He winks lasciviously at Blueberry, a filthy smirk on his lips.
Once Jules leaves he turns to the newcomers. "Well now, which o' you fine folk can point me at the booze? I wouldn't ask, only me old throat is crustin' over, like, an' I tend ta get a bit wossname, phlegmy, without the occasional splash o' wine. Purely medicinal, you unnerstand."
Ferrak Monday December 10th, 2001 6:40:30 PM
Not sure if a guard dog will be wanted in this rich persons house, Ferrak hesitates at the door.
Looking for guidance he whines softly at the others. Ferrak then moves over to wait next to the levitating crates. Cocking his head to one side, the feral gnome decides that it's best to just sit tight until somebody tells him what to do. Trying to be as much like a real guard dog as possible.
"woof"
Steps d20+3=18 Monday December 10th, 2001 8:35:36 PM
As members of the group mention their pay, Steps nods his head as he agrees. "It has been awhile since we received any income from our employer."
When they arrive at their destination, Steps thanks the servant as he lets them in (spot check 18).
Before walking through the door, Steps addresses Jules, "Pardon me, but would it be OK to bring our guard dog inside? He is very disciplined and well behaved. I would not want to leave him on your doorstep."
When introduced to the other servants, Steps nods in greeting to each one. "Well met all, my name is Steps." He smiles at Zalaza as he says his name. After the introductions are completed he will help with setting up the food. While setting up, Steps tries not to laugh at Gullion's antics with the servants.
Tamosvar d20+6=20 Tuesday December 11th, 2001 2:03:55 AM
As the party enters the Borisun home, and as they unpack and prepare the stuff, Tamosvar gives the place a good look over while acting as if he is merely appreciating the decor of the place. As they work he says quietly to Gullion, "I suspect he meant that strange bubbly bath that folds into a box that Chenna gave us."
Lake (Bill Troublefinder) d20+3=5 d20+18=25 Tuesday December 11th, 2001 2:35:27 AM
[Bill doesn't manage to spot whatever there was to spot -DC 5.]
Lake quickly dropped the light shining from his eyes. After leaving the park, just before reaching the house, he had hopped off the netted load, and taken down his pair of ioun stones, and removed the gem from his forehead.
At the door he identified the group to the one we later learn is Jules. He looked around as the group was lead into the large dwelling, mentally mapping the layout and appointments. [Autohypnosis DC 25.] He enjoys Renik's artful playing out of the role of Gullion.
He also calls Ferrak to come along, answering the disguised gnome's "woof" with his own "woof - woof!" in which he communicates to him that maybe he'll get some good table scraps later.
As he and his friends finish unbundling and placing the foods with the help and direction of Borisun's servants, he gets a few of the bigger guys to help move the compressed hot tub over to the center of the new platform - making sure it is at least a ten-foot-square area. He makes sure it is properly centered, then begins to walk around the box, moving his fingers in intricate patterns, saying a few words he remembers hearing the sahuagin speak some months ago, and mixing in nonsense syllables and such. At the end of the third pass around the box, he brings his voice down low, then, gently waving his fingers himself rises into the air just slightly - about a foot off the ground, and his voice raises to a crescendo, "Fabrita Scorzi Lak, Jack-KOO-zee! Bippity boppity ZOO!" And his fingers and arms go from a gentle wave to a burst of staccato action, his hands mirroring the opening of the hot tub.
He then invites Borisun over to show him the controls, reminding him how they work. "The left knob controls the motion of the water. Setting zero is for still water. One is for light underwater motion, five is medium, and setting nine makes for strong underwater streams shooting from the sides. You can use the in between settings, too. This next control over here is for the bubble action. And you can gradually bring the temperature up or down - it takes a few minutes to heat or cool - with this last dial here."
Hey Jules (DM Kim) Tuesday December 11th, 2001 5:22:22 AM
Jules took Gullion's ribbing fairly well. "Why, the water device, I believe I was told," he answers the talkative B&B employee when asked about the 'special item.' He explains that the platform was built a certain size so it would fit. "I assumed you all, having brought it, might have an idea," he comments evenly.
"Of course your hound may accompany you, as long as it remains, as you say, well behaved," he answers Steps. "There's a small room off the kitchen where he might enjoy some scraps and leftovers a bit later."
Jules does look askance at Gullion's request for booze. "Perhaps if you remain in the kitchen after the food is prepared and the guests arrive, your thirst can be attended to. They will begin arriving quite soon, you see."
As indicated, Jules leaves just after the introductions are complete, and before the food and such are set up.
On the way in to the house, Gullion noted a few small holes along the entryway, and caught a glimpse through one of someone's eye looking at them as the party passed. Steps noted the fine seam of a concealed door along the left side of the entryway passage. Apparently some security measures have been taken here.
Ain't She Sweet (DM Kim) d20+3=17 Tuesday December 11th, 2001 5:32:43 AM
Zalaza turns away from Steps' eyes when he introduces himself, as though she really hadn't noticed him that much. Or did she?
Blueberry does not appear to register Gullion's lustful appraisal, as, aside from an occasional darting glance, she keeps her eyes averted, focusing on the task of helping to lay out the food. There is a slight, though perhaps endearing, awkwardness about her. Picture a deer which moves with grace, but starts with a jerk when it hears a noise out of place.
Tamosvar, though, observes a narrowing of the carpenter's eyes as the man notes Gullion's leer.
Zalaza accidently brushes Steps on the arm with the sleeve of her puffed blouse as she carries a tureen of gravy to the table on the right.
Sgt. Peppo's Lonely Hearts Club Band (DM Kim) Tuesday December 11th, 2001 5:43:04 AM
The gnome bustles about, making sure that everyone got his name, and he got everyone else's, He efficiently directs the placement of the dishes - the still steaming rolls, the fine pate, the fresh tossed salad, the little cakes and dainties, the perfectly cooked and presented assortment of meats, and so on. In an aside to Grady, Tamosvar overhears the gnome say, "Wipe that green look off your face. He's harmless, I tell ya. Now look - that halfling - Lake, yes, that's the spot - help him out, Grady."
Peppo spreads the good news to the servants from the Beer and Bath that some pleasant food is available in the kitchen once the set up is complete here. "Our own staff will take care of the serving of the guests, but we'll see you don't go hungry yourselves - or thirsty," and he winks at Gullion. "Besides, you might be able to hear at least some of the goings-on from the kitchen, maybe get a peek or two over the balcony. Any of you know how to wash dishes?"
Oooh - Aaah. Uh-oh (DM Kim) Tuesday December 11th, 2001 6:04:28 AM
All the servants, and Borisun, watch with curiosity as Lake goes through his little ceremony. When the hot tub opens up full when he gets to the command word, "Jack-KOO-zee!" there are gasps, and Blueberry gives a little squeal of delight, clapping her hands together. Grady seems impressed, and just nods his head up and down several times in approval. Borisun, by the time Bill gets to the third device, takes over the description of how it works, "Ah, yes, now I remember! Why, everyone will want to try it!" he predicts, and laughs with pleasure as he runs his fingers through the already steaming water. Blueberry gasps as though she just remembered something, leaves the room, and returns with large, soft green towels, which she begins to lay neatly over the railing, then brings another stack of towels, and sets them next a wall.
Zalaza asks Tamosvar if he has used this bath before, and of Steps, "And how about you?" She also asks Roger the same question.
Just then, a matronly woman wearing an apron sticks her head into the room, and announces, "The first guests are arriving, Master Borisun. One of the city's assistants to the Council, Subassistant Bareth and his new fiancee, Syntyche," she says. "You said I should tell you when the first ones got here, sir," she explains, then disappears back towards the entrance.
Borison thanks her, then tells the B&B staff, "I am pleased with Chenna's work. Oh, and yours, of course. Please, Beppo will show you to the kitchen - it's right up that stairway over there," and he points to a side door, to the left of which is an opening for passing dishes through. Through the door are stairs leading up. A balcony, interrupted by pillars, covers a good portion of the next floor up, and overlooks the great hall below with its flora, food, and bubbling tub.
Gullion d20+7=8 Tuesday December 11th, 2001 10:40:45 AM
Gullion winks back at Beppo. "Lead on, sir, let's take a look at this kitchen o' yours, eh?"
Surveying the scene from on high Renik starts to relax a little; everything seems normal enough. He takes a step back from proceedings and loses himself in thought, largely oblivious to events around him (Spot 8: natural 1!).
Ferrak d20+2=5 Tuesday December 11th, 2001 6:42:24 PM
"Woof." says Ferrak in obvious gratitude towards the disguised forms of Draax and Bill.
Walking in on all fours Ferrak tries to remain out of the way.
If something goes wrong, he thinks to himself, then hopefully they'll underestimate the guard dog.
Unfortunately he doesn't pay much attention to what is going on around them. (Spot=5)
Steps (Draax) Tuesday December 11th, 2001 11:02:54 PM
Steps hides his disappointment as Zalaza turns away, thinking to himself that he had obviously misinterpreted her interest. He reminds himself that even if she were interested in him, it would have been his alter ego that had caught her attention. As she accidentally bumps into him, Steps smiles as he apologizes to her for getting in her way. "Excuse me, I did not mean to get in your way. I will try to keep my eyes on you so that I can be sure that I do not hamper you in any way." In answer to her inquiry about the tub, Steps answers, "No I have never had the pleasure, yet."
As Lake begin to go through the elaborated steps to activate the tub, Steps looks at him confused at first, but then smiles as he catches on.
After entering the kitchen, Steps remembers the accidental bump of Zalaza. Before he realizes what he is doing, he quickly does an inventory of the items on him. He thinks, 'I must be working too hard to be this suspicious.' Laughing at his foolishness he waits until the group is alone and then tells them about the door outline that he spotted as they entered the house.
Lake (Bill) d20+18=33 Wednesday December 12th, 2001 3:26:58 AM
"Who's this Bareth - and Syntyche?" Lake asks Peppo as they ascend the stairs. "Oh, I know how to wash dishes. But my sister is faster. I like to dry them, better. And our guard dog can lick clean some of 'em, especially if they have some leftover meat on 'em." More quietly, he asks, "Say, is Grady sweet on Blueberry? Didja see the look he gave our friend there?"
He listens with interest to Steps' report of the hidden doorway. Since Tamosvar hasn't told anyone what he saw at the entrance, there's nothing for Lake to hear in that regard.
Lake looks around the kitchen, making a mental inventory of the pots, pans, knives, spatulas, any oven, stove, counter, sink, water source, as well as any oddities about the kitchen that may stand out. [Autohypnosis 33 to remember kitchen details.]
Life in the Kitchen (DM Kim) Wednesday December 12th, 2001 1:23:21 PM
"In my way?" Zalaza asks Steps. When he tells her he's going to keep his eyes on her, she says, "You do that, then," with a twinkle in her eye. "But I doubt you're quick enough to hamper me." She doesn't explain what she means by this. Any response she might have had regarding his lack of use of the hot tub is interrupted by a flurry of last-minute activity in the room as the arrival of the first guests is announced.
Peppo says that Bareth assists one of the members of the Council of Lords - he can't remember which one. But Syntyche - his new fiancee, and quite stunning, is the third winsome lass Bareth has been engaged to in the last year and a half. "They say that he stays engaged to them just long enough to get what he wants, then drops 'em for someone new."
Guests continue to arrive. The food and the hot tub are both big hits, according to reports from servers who pop up into the kitchen from time to time. A pimply-faced teenager who is helping out tells how one guest was filling his hands with water, then squirting passers-by. "Then he squirted Carmen - she's a priestess of Caeroldra - and she walked over, sat in the hot tub next to him - clothes and all, then gave him a kiss that lasted a minute!" The boy, after telling this story excitedly, suddenly blushes as he notices everyone looking at him. He grabs a tray of cookies and heads back downstairs.
A few moments later Blueberry enters the kitchen. Wide-eyed, her natural shyness swallowed up in her astonishment at the goings-on, she says, "Master Borisun invited one priestess of Caeroldra, and his wife, Mistress Chaunacy, invited another one. One got all wet, and the dry one started to call her names, even called her a ... a ... oh, I can't say it!" She sees Ferrak standing in the corner. "But it rhymes with mutt, and starts with the same letters as, let's see - slug!" Blueberry says, "You can see it from the balcony. C'mon!" And she leads the way to the servants' vantage point above the great hall.
On leaving the kitchen, mixed sounds are heard. "You dry inkwell - the goddess inspires passion - and don't you deny it, Sylivia!" comes from the lips of a beautiful and nubile wet-bloused woman - an elf.
"You are as randy as a bitch in heat, Carmen! Where is your self-control?" screeches another gorgeous young woman, a human. "Learn from the Hands of Love!" she says, demonstrating her own self-control by slapping Carmen across the cheek.
Meanwhile, many of the forty to fifty guests begin to take note. Some smile, a few frown, others watch with acute interest. Carmen, after a stunned look crosses her face, her left cheek turning a bright pink, narrows her eyes and says, "Why, I'll just show you the service of passion!" And she lunges for her clerical opponent, grabbing Sylivia's wavy golden hair.
Tamosvar Wednesday December 12th, 2001 10:28:30 PM
"Hmm...anybets on when they'll fall in the tub?" Tamosvar asks only half joking. "I pity anyone who tries to break up that little encounter." As everyone is together for the moment Tamosvar takes this time to tell everyone what he's seen during the course of the evening.
Gullion Thursday December 13th, 2001 4:51:41 AM
Gullion leans over the balcony and hoots, slapping his thigh. The leer on his face is anything but wholesome. Any of his companions who note his 'performance' might think that his acting is rather too good.
"Yeeha! Inna tub! Thassit, girl! Pin 'er down! Full Nelson! Atomic Piledriver! Someone fetch the mud! 10 GP on the wet one! Woo-hooo!"
Gullion seems to be thoroughly enjoying himself.
Lake (Bill Troublefinder) d20+6=13 d20+6=23 Thursday December 13th, 2001 3:17:26 PM
Lake, pulling up a stool from the kitchen to look over the railing, sees what's going on. Not sure that they'll pay any attention, nevertheless he sends a missive to the one called Sylivia. "Caeroldra is saddened that her own priestesses are brawling, Sylivia." [DC 13]
He then sends a similar psionic telepathic message to the other. "Caeroldra's honor is not upheld by your behavior, Carmen." [DC 23]
Ferrak Thursday December 13th, 2001 6:02:15 PM
Doing what any self respecting dog would do at a time like this, Ferrak barks loudly.
"Woof! Woof! Woof!"
Loosely translated as: "Hey, did somebody say 'as randy as a bitch in heat!?!'"
Steps Thursday December 13th, 2001 6:09:10 PM
Steps smiles and gives a small laugh at Zalaza's comment about him not being quick enough to hamper her.
He joins everyone on the balcony and enjoys the show. He tries to figure out which is the better show, Gullion or the girls.
And in this corner... (DM Kim) d20+8=25 d20+7=24 d20=2 d20=4 d20=19 d20=5 d20=19 d20=5 d20=7 d20=1 d20=13 Friday December 14th, 2001 2:01:02 AM
"Sylvan slut! Why not mate with ORCS?!" Sylivia screams. "You've tried everything else!" The elf and human representatives of the goddess of faithful love twirl about. Neither seems to pay any mind to whatever Lake was trying to say to them.
Sylivia has the advantage in weight, Carmen better balance and grace. The elf sticks her foot out, and Sylivia bumps the table, from which two things fly. One of the bowls of pate arcs through the air, and lands on the bald pate of an older gentleman. And a dish of jam splats Syntyche just above her, um, sternum, sliding into the upper nether regions from there. "My white satin gown!" Bareth bends down to pick up the offending dish, just as Carmen's hip collides with his. He goes flying, and the dish, still having a bit of jam in it, discharges the remainder of its contents towards the wife of a paladin of Alemi. Protecting her honor, the paladin picks up a piece of frosted cake, hefting it. "Stand and take it like a man!" the noble knight challenges the budding politician. Trying to keep the peace, a cleric of Alemi goes to stay the hand of his paladin brother - but manages to cause the cake to fly towards the master of the house, Borisun, who ducks, so that the cake strikes instead the chief librarian of the wizard's college in the side of his head. Pandemonium breaks loose, with food beginning to fly left and right! The young servant who reported the beginnings of this fracas calls out with delight, "Food fight!" and begins tossing his cookies.
Kersplash! The tussling women of holiness land in the water. Towels, food, a shoe, a wig, a - things are flying! The librarian wipes a bit of the frosting off his cheek, tastes it, and a smile spreads across his frosted face. He turns towards the table, trips on a towel, and falls into the roiling hot tub himself.
[OOC: Go ahead and describe a few rounds of (intended) actions for your characters. Make appropriate rolls for your success. Have fun! Oh, and please email me your current character sheets, to BillTFind@hotmail.com and kimmccoy52@attbi.com -DM Kim]
Lake (Bill) d20+6=24 Friday December 14th, 2001 2:30:57 AM
"Woof woof, woof!" Lake replies to Ferrak. 'That's what it sounded like to me!'
Bill is sorely tempted to join in the fun and frivolity. However, as Lake, an employee of Chenna, and in service tonight to Borisun, what should he do? Hmmm. He notes a guest about to sit down. Using far hand, he scoots a pie over a few feet to soften the landing. Sploof! [DC 24] No, no, he should not do this. What a waste of good pie!
"Let's see what we can do to help, friends."
Lake leaves his knapsack upstairs, jumps off the balcony, feather falling downward, and moves over to see if he can get somebody to help him break up the catfight. He grabs a towel.
Gullion Friday December 14th, 2001 9:28:04 AM
Gullion grins at the chaos that has erupted below. He notes Bill entering the fray, but holds back. No-one seems at risk of getting hurt, so Gullion decides to leave them to it. He pulls up a chair and sits, applauding the entertainment below.
I Don't Want To Spoil The Party (DM Kim) d20=7 d20=2 d20+3=23 d20+6=11 d20+9=18 d20-2=0 d20-1=6 d20+5=21 d20+7=23 d20+2=7 d20+9=13 d20=3 d20=3 d20=10 d20=20 d20=19 d20=15 d20=9 d20+5=25 Saturday December 15th, 2001 2:26:04 AM [chide on] [24 hours Real Time - two posts? -] [chide off]
Borisun somehow manages to escape unstained - the paladin, formerly of the cake, a few folks who early on stepped out of the room as the food began to fly and, remarkably, Lake all managed to have the food miss them (really!). The halfling did, nevertheless, manage to get splashed quite a bit as he assisted some of the more responsible servants - Zalaza among them - in breaking off the tussle of the two clerics.
Though those in the balcony missed most of the direct effects of the flying frosting, a few young people - two young men and the young ladies in their company, noticed those calling down from above, and aimed some fruity missiles in their direction. Most fell short. Gullion, after watching one tort fly well over his shoulder, turned to taunt the inept attackers just in time to meet a perfectly timed spinning slice of juicy beef right on his forehead. Ferrak seemed to take an interest as this item slid to Gullion's feet.
Amidst great hilarity, it's apparent that a large part of the party goers think this unplanned episode well worth their coming, despite the fretting of a few of the more fastidious at fresh stains on exquisite fabrics.
Carmen and Sylivia are escorted out, and where some seem to regret their departure, others appear to feel it is good riddance.
The chief librarian, dripping wet and apparently happy as a schoolboy with a box of candy, says, "Remarkable! Wonderful! Not since fourteen years hence, at Yarbo's graduation have I had such -- Marvelous!"
The servants work on cleaning up where they can, and the wizards' librarian does have the presence to note and assist with a few spells, making the cleanup a snap - and earning him the gratitude of several of the upper crust or up-and-coming whose sartorial splendor is salvaged.
Borisun was heard to remark that such behavior--while highly amusing and quite the diversion for his other guests--does NOT bode well for the Temple of Caeroldra. An older guest, a man with floofed-out sideburns along his jowls, intones, "A house divided against itself will not, yes, that is, division is the, that is, dissension among a host will lead to... Is there any more pate?"
The tub is enjoyed by many.
Zalaza remarks to Steps in passing, "I noticed you seemed to have trouble deciding just what you were going to keep your eyes on, tonight."
Peppo the gnome tells the B&B crew that he gets the days of the dog, the hawk, the jackal and the skunk off every month, and he'd be happy to stand the B&B crew a round of drinks sometime on one of his days off. "You seem like fair folks. And I'm sure I'd like to hear more of Mr. Gullion's stories."
Ferrak has LOTS of scraps to choose from.
The party winds down just before midnight, and the Hamleteers are free to pack up the tub. Borisun tips each of them 100gp and advises that they take the LONG way around Gladiator Park to go back to the Beer & Bath.
"Extend my gratitude to Chenna, won't you? The food was fantastic. Our guests' enjoyment of it was unorthodox in part, but all was tasty. And, the tub!" and Borisun claps his hands together. His wife, Chaunacy, thanks the B&B staff as well, giving each a small silk scarf as a memento of their service.
The party may take their leave ... and return to the B&B, the long way, uneventfully. What do you tell Chenna?
OOC: XP & upcoming [DM Kim] Saturday December 15th, 2001 2:50:57 AM [OOC: 400 xp for each one who played through the encounter with the ghosts in the park, and 200 xp for those who played through Borisun's party.]
Now we start the three week holiday slowdown. I, and perhaps Todd (once his internet service is restored) will still post almost everyday, and we'll look to get some good stuff in. If you want to do a little research, find a spot for your characters to establish their own place, buy books for the library, stretch your legs and find out more about the situation in Plateau City, or something similar - go for it.
And one more reminder: Please email me your character sheets, to: BillTFind@hotmail.com and kimmccoy52@attbi.com
Each of you who get your character sheet in to me by 11:59 pm on Tuesday, Dec. 18 will get a minor gift for your character. -DM Kim
Steps Sunday December 16th, 2001 9:13:29 PM
Steps stays out of the way of the festivities, but finds himself a good spot where he can watch it all unfold. He smiles and laughs openly at the antics of the party's guests.
In response to Zalaza's comment he replies, "Aye my lady, I have always had a talent for letting my eyes roam to fascinating sights, but for some reason tonight my eyes kept coming back and fixing on your beauty. So I guess out of everything that was going on tonight you were the most fascinating sight. Maybe if I am lucky I will have the opportunity to grant my eyes the pleasure of your beauty again."
He also thanks Borisun for such a fun evening and his wife for the memento.
The first thing that Steps/Draax is going to do during the down time is see about the group's back pay from Chenna and Marcus.
Gullion Monday December 17th, 2001 8:08:12 AM
Gullion rubs his forehead and momentarily ponders joining the fray. But by then it is too late. The protagonists are led away, protesting loudly, and it is time to return to the Beer and Bath.
Upon their return Gullion launches into an elaborate tale of high adventure, of ghostly manifestation and a park filled with unspeakable dangers. He talks of selfless sacrifice in the face of insurmountable obstacles, of how personal items were cast aside to placate the spectral horde, and how, at the last, the party escaped by the skin of their teeth, their precious cargo intact.
He goes on to tell Chenna of Borisun's delight at the food and tub, of how incredibly succesful the party turned out to be, and of the general feting Chenna recieved for providing such fabulous fare, delivered with such skill, aplomb and professionalism by her loyal, hardworking staff.
Then he grins widely, takes a swig of wine (or so it would seem; Gullion's wine is in fact simple grape juice; he likes to keep a clear head, whilst projecting the image of a sot), and lets others talk of matters financial, his groundwork laid.
Lake (Bill Troublefinder) Monday December 17th, 2001 2:35:34 PM
Lake helps in the clean up, and takes the opportunity to meet the Wizards College chief librarian, and asks for advice in finding good books. "Yes, I would like to build up a little library, as well as learn to gather and share what knowledge I might from existing book collections such as the marvelous library you oversee." As it comes time to go, he thanks Mistress Chaunacy for the scarf, Master Borisun for the employment and generous tip, and Peppo for helping them figure their way around. He reprises his earlier performance when reducing the hot tub, making sure that the actual command words are surrounded by obscuring nonsense and gesticulations, so that the average observer would be hard pressed to replicate the feat.
He does not levitate the now lightened load on the way back to the B&B. He enjoys chatting with his friends about the party and the people they met, and he teases Steps about Zalaza.
Back at Chenna's, he enjoys Gullion's rendition of events. He also tells her of the promise he made to the ghosts - and tells of the diversions his friends made, as well. "They did, after all, leave us alone - so the feast for Borisun was salvaged." He offers her his 100 gp to go toward paying for the food, since he's not sure that she should be responsible for what he offered. Even though he used four flasks of holy water and gave up a block of his favorite cheese, and expended two charges from his wand. He doesn't tell her about the wand, though, unless Gullion has already given that information away.
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