TiamatZGhost punsThe Banette of my existenceRegistered Userregular
edited September 2009
"Well, I've never heard of the Genesis people, though many people across the land refer to us as Genasi. Can't blame you, since Genasi aren't that everyday in the land. I mean, even tieflings and devas are a more common sight than a Genasi."
Yuriel points to many of the patrons in the inn, especially those whom he's captured in his eye. "Who's the old man next to the fire, that Dwarf over there winning all the card games, the 'peculiar' elf being flattered by Fritz and the man over there dressed in fineries. Tell me, is he a noble or upper class member of Winterhaven?"
"Also, could you give me and my associates some drinks. I think an ale will do fine for us, thank you."
-2 sp for my ale. If I buy for the group its -10sp.
Rolling Diplomacy if she might give us more detail of the patrons other than their names (likes/dislikes, what's bothering them, any importance etc.): 7 ;
and also Insight on that elf (never heard of a surly elf in the bar, unless someone died or something, but with that joke Fritz just made I wouldn't be surprised :P) : 4.
Damn my Attention Deficit Dis... ooh hey look a rock!
Okay, it's become clear that I can't post even once a day like I'd hoped - I'll have to drop out. My apologies, and good luck.
No problem, maybe there'll be another PbP up soon for you to try out.
Thom, for the most part, keeps to himself, still a bit embarassed about how he handled himself at the end of the battle. As it turned out, his gold was in his other pocket, so he'd made a big stink about absolutely nothing.
He does manage to groan at Fritz' joke, though. "Yes, I get it, but I wish I didn't!"
Salvana Wrafton is more than happy to answer your group's questions.
"That old feller is Eilian, owns a farm off the road bout a mile out. He probably knows more about Winterhaven than anyone. The kids just love his stories, and he loves to tell 'em. The dwarf is Thair Coalstriker. He owns the local smithy. I tell you, he can really knock 'em back. The elf? Her name's Ninaran. Nothing wrong with her, she's just the quiet sort. Likes to left in peace to enjoy her drink. Your friend won't get very far with her, I'd warrant. The gentleman by the window? Why, that's His Lordship! He's a fine lord, we've no complaints. His family has served Winterhaven admirably for generations. If it's a trading relationship or whatnot to Winterhaven you're looking for, feel free to walk right up to Lord Padraig and introduce yourse'ves. We don't place much stock in pomps and circumstances here."
Meanwhile....
Fritz is fairly certain a colder shoulder has never been delivered in the history of existence.
"A human, an elf, and a dwarf are all contracted to build a palace for the great Sultan of the Efreet. Unfortunately, the massive dome collapses and the efreet's harem is crushed to death. Furious, the Sultan orders all three to be executed by beheading.
The human is dragged by the efreet's servants to a massive obsidian guillotine. His head is locked in the stocks and they pull the lever. The obsidian blade drops -- and then stops halfway, apparently stuck. The Sultan says "It is the will of Imix that you be live, so you shall be set free."
Next the elf is dragged to the guillotine. His head is locked in the stocks and they pull the lever. The obsidian blade drops -- and then stops halfway, apparently stuck. The Sultan says "It is the will of Imix that you be live, so you shall be set free."
Finally, the dwarf is dragged to the guillotine. Just before his head is about to be locked in the stocks he looks up and says,
"Ach. I see the problem!"
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Powerpuppiesdrinking coffee in themountain cabinRegistered Userregular
edited September 2009
Having finished his first, Thaladh orders a second foaming mug of ale. Seeking to honor the pledge he offered earlier, he raises the mug high, and shouts, "A toast to the wonderful lizard bastards we slew on the way here. That trip would have been unbearably dreary without the entertainment you provided."
Draining half of the drink in a single gulp, he wanders over to the dwarf. "Mind if I take a seat?" he asks, before pulling an empty chair from the table and making himself comfortable.
Fritz: You think you see edge of her lips twitch upward involuntarily as you hit the punchline, but the truth is hidden as she quickly lifts her glass to her lips and drains the last of it. "Drink's finished," she observes in monotone. "Time for good girls to go to bed." With that, she stands and heads for the door.
Thaladh : "DON'T BOTHER ME NOW!" bellows the dwarf as he draws another card. "I'm on a winning streak!"
Fritz lets out a little sigh. Can't say he didn't try. He takes a gulp of ale and heads back toward the table to have some food.
"Well, the chic was cold and quiet as they tend to be.. so no luck on my end. Any of you find any clues?"
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Powerpuppiesdrinking coffee in themountain cabinRegistered Userregular
edited September 2009
"I meant no offense," replies Thaladh, his eyes narrowing. He moves seats and watches the game for a moment, assessing his chances of beating the dwarf at his own game, and considering trying to bait him into a fight.
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TiamatZGhost punsThe Banette of my existenceRegistered Userregular
edited September 2009
Yuriel makes a quick glance on the elven woman before she leaves the inn. Quite the surly one that one, but probably not our concern or our problem.
"Okay then, while Shaladh talks with the Dwarf, we should try talking to the other patrons (Yuriel points discreetly to the specific people he's seen) and find out what they know about Winterhaven, the location of the Keep, and what happened to the other excavation teams. Almost forgot, we should try and ask them about any nearby Kobold nests or brigands we should know about; better be safe than sorry."
"So any questions?"
Well, thanks to Yuriel's keen investigations, we got :
- An old farmer who knows Winterhaven like the back of his hand
- The Dwarf that Thaladh's looking to fight with (Which explained why the blacksmith was quiet).
- His Lordship over there, whom I assume we report to with regards to the Kobolds on the road and about the location of the Keep.
- Ms. Wrafton, who would tell us more of the people living in Winterhaven.
People we can't talk to include:
X- The surly elf woman that Fritz scared off with his less than moderate jokes (though the second one was better ).
So I just want to know who talks to whom, I'll try to talk to his lordship over there, Thaladh talks to the Dwarf, which leaves us with 2 more people to talk to. Also, I think Bhow should try to talk to his lordship with regards to the tower's occupant and find ways how we could get a meeting with their wizard.
Ultimatley, this is just my thoughts, so if you guys wanna do something else, it's your call.
Also TR, what's the price for stying in the inn? Ms. Wrafton never told us.
My money is on Thaladh btw. (FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT!)
Well, fritz could go gamble with the dwarf, but if he lost he might kill him. lol Later. He's more in the mood to get drunk though, I think.
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BhowSunny day, sweeping the clouds away.On my way to where the air is sweet.Registered Userregular
edited September 2009
Fighum will accompany Yuriel to approach his lordship. Feel free to write something up, or I'll have time to post in a few hours.
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BhowSunny day, sweeping the clouds away.On my way to where the air is sweet.Registered Userregular
edited September 2009
Rising from his meal, Professor Fighum places his hand on the Genasi’s shoulder: “Yuriel, what say we introduce ourselves to his lordship. He’ll want to know about the kobolds, and he’ll have at least heard of the earlier expedition, provided they made it this far."
The two cross the room to stand before Lord Padraig.
“Your lordship, please allow me the privilege and pleasure of presenting ourselves to you. My esteemed colleague,” gesturing to Yuriel beside him, “is Yuriel Firestarter, of the Genasi. I am Professor Quentin T. Fighum.” The professor makes a small bow. “The rest of our group,” swinging an arm out towards the common room, “you can see enjoying Ms. Wrafton’s hospitality.”
“We have been engaged by the Royal Arcane & Scientific Society to follow an earlier expedition’s trail to an ancient keep rumoured to be nearby. Unfortunately, the Royal A.S.S. lost contact with them due to causes yet unclear. Perhaps they fell to brigands, like the kobold assailants we dispatched not far outside your town. Have you recent intelligence of our predecessors, or an indication of how we might find this keep, and what may have met our predecessors there?”
TR: Let me know if you want a die roll
TiamatZ: Feel free to embellish the conversation.
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TiamatZGhost punsThe Banette of my existenceRegistered Userregular
edited September 2009
"What my ecstatic colleague really means is if you know the whereabouts of these teams, as we were sent by the R.A.S.S. to keep track of their progress. Also, do you know of any problems going on around Winterhaven. We were ambushed by a motley group of kobolds. Though they didn’t prove much of a threat, it’s their numbers that have me worried, as a nest could jeopardize the surrounding area and your town.” Not to mention our chances of finding the keep, Yuriel ponders.
“What’s more, my colleague Professor Fighum wants to know more about your resident wizard, such as his name and occupation. Tell me, is he an illusionist or a summoner of some kind?”
Try to roll Bluff to keep our real goal a secret, for now (1d20-1): 9
And Insight to see what troubles his Lordship (probably the kobolds) (1d20+1): 8
Can't keep a straight face :?
the Royal A.S.S.
The royal A.S.S.? lol
Royal Arcane & Scientific Society
That would be the best academy ever! Science and Magic? Sign me up!
Lord Padraig listens thoughtfully to your expositions.
"Hmm? R.A.S.S.? Expeditions? I've afraid I've no idea what you're talking about, sir." Lord Padraig rubs his chin thoughtfully. "The kobolds, however, I am sadly quite aware of. And you say you bested a patrol of theirs on your way here? You aren't just your ordinary band of travelers, are you? Hmm...yes, I believe I can help you, or rather, we can help each other. But it is growing late, and besides, I make it a policy to never conduct official business with a gutfull of ale in me, eh?" He chuckles warmly at his own comment. "Come and see me at my Manor House tomorrow after we've both had a good night's sleep. I believe we shall have much to discuss."
Meanwhile, Fritz and Thom watch as Coalstriker, his card game finished, teaches Thaladh to play Druckles, a dwarven game which combines drinking, rhyming, and physical assault in a charming manner that only dwarves could have thought was a good idea.
Strangely, the monk seems to be winning.
(You can make an Athletics check if you like, Thaladh. As for the unprompted rolls that have been made, that's fine, and please continue to make them when you feel they would be relevant. I won't always have a plan for what they would mean, exactly, but I can work something out.)
That's pretty much all you'll get out of this evening in the tavern, so let's say the hour is growing quite late, you're shown to your rooms, yadda yadda it's a brand new day. Well, we can resolve the stuff with the dwarf if you'd like. If not, you can begin to explore Winterhaven. Just don't stand up Lord Padraig, that would be terribly rude.
BhowSunny day, sweeping the clouds away.On my way to where the air is sweet.Registered Userregular
edited September 2009
Fighum’s journal
Winterhaven
Our journey from Fallcrest to Winterhaven was largely uneventful, with one significant exception. A band of kobolds (Reptilius Idioticus) assayed to rob us (or worse). My companions handled themselves admirably in our first test, though I somehow doubt our future encounters will be so straight-forward.
I conducted several enlightening experiments during the rout. Seeing the result of a fully empowered attack in Darcmajique’s style was gratifying. That trick will come in handy. I also had an opportunity to test the perception of our blind swordsman, Thom. I caught him (a little too strongly, I admit) on the skirt of a wave of force. Though sightless, he tracked our enemies expertly and swung his sword confidently, so I was surprised to catch him seemingly unawares with my blast. Perhaps his perception is focused acutely on perceived threats, leaving little attention for anything else? This, however, would leave him exceedingly open to ambush. Perhaps his perception has an arcane blind spot, sensing only physical objects? I distinctly sense some magic in his skills, though. Regardless, I must be more judicious when using magic near my comrades.
Winterhaven is poor, but hospitable. Yuriel and I introduced ourselves to Lord Padraig, who seems to be the town official. He claimed ignorance regarding the keep or the earlier expedition. He seemed to have something on his mind, but was reluctant to speak further, and he encouraged us to visit him on the morrow.
Before our meeting, however, I must present myself to Vathrun, curator of a wizardly tower that is the dominant feature of this small town. If magical happenings or history are resident in the neighborhood, he seems to be the one to know of them.
Tomorrow, we’ll see what Winterhaven can offer.
Do these journal entries contribute to the story/game, or are they self-indulgent clap-trap? Please let me know if you'd rather not see more of them.
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TiamatZGhost punsThe Banette of my existenceRegistered Userregular
edited September 2009
"Very well then Lord Padriag, we'll visit you in the morrow. The large house past the inner gate, am I right? Thank you for your emmm... 'partonage'."
Yuriel turns to the rest of the group, including Thaladh and Fritz near the Dwarf. "You two have your fun with the dwarf, but remember we have to meet the town's leader, Lord Padriag tomorrow early in the morning. If any of you want your weapons modified or enhanced, just call me."
Yuriel waits until most of the group gets ready to go to their beds. Taking all the weapons given to him, he enhances the weapons, making them durable and lightweight for maximum efficiency.
Okay, just tell me which one of you want the ARCANE EMPOWERMENT ability on his weapon. I've decided to use the Augment Energy ability on the weapon. Like I said, anyone of you want this on their weapon?
Do these journal entries contribute to the story/game, or are they self-indulgent clap-trap? Please let me know if you'd rather not see more of them.
I don't know, though I actually like reading them.
What's it do Tiamat? Is it the same as the +2 to one attack roll enchantment?
Also, I'm fine with starting a new day and your journal entries Bhow.
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TiamatZGhost punsThe Banette of my existenceRegistered Userregular
edited September 2009
Yeah, basically, i'll post all my group enhancing abilities at the start of an encounter, so you guys will know what my stuff can do for you. Makes it easier to work with.
As for the ability i'm imparting, it's up to the person who wants it, and what type of ability they want.
Here are the 2 options: Impart Energy: You recharge the daily power of a magic item. An item can be recharged only once per day in this way.
Augment Energy: You infuse a weapon or an implement with a reservoir of energy that lasts until the end of your next extended rest or until it is expended. The wielder of the implement or the weapon can use a free action after making an attack roll to expend the reservoir of energy to gain a +2 bonus to that attack roll. An implement or a weapon can be augmented only once per day in this way.
Since no one expended an item's daily power, I'll grant the Augment Energy power to someone's weapon for the next day.
Otherwise I'll save this for when anyone wants to recharge an item's power.
Up to you guys.
I'm intend for the meeting with Lord Padraig to be a skill challenge to determine whether he will grant you permission to operate in his domain, explore Shadowfell Keep, etc.
Powerpuppiesdrinking coffee in themountain cabinRegistered Userregular
edited September 2009
Gonna win that dwarf's game before we end last night, if that's cool. The professor can be off journaling while some of us are still in the taproom, if that's okay.
Druckles is played thusly: Both players are to recite a dirty limerick which describes the misadventures of an incontinent old wizard. Once you complete the limerick, chug your drink. The first to finish may then chuck their empty stein at the opposing player. This is called a Round. Rounds are played until one of the players in unable to continue. Loser pays the tab (Presumably. Very few of the people who have been involved in a game of Druckles can actually recount how or when the game ended. It does not help that, as you may have guessed, very few people play Druckles at all).
PP, if you want to make a few Athletics, Acrobatics, and Endurance Checks, I can pit them against my rolls and come up with an interesting little reward or penalty for you. (The penalty would be minuscule, don't worry.)
I'll probably take the initiative and get the audience with Padraig started myself? That is, I'll go ahead and post the intro to it once I've got it ready, without waiting for everyone to post, "We walk in the door" first, since that's pretty much all you're supposed to do until the guy on the throne gives you permission to speak. Feel free to get your arguments in your favor ready, though.
!ready Sorry I haven't been posting as much as I should be, I keep getting distracted by [strike]Fall from Heaven 2[/strike] stuff. I'm writing a note to remind myself now.
Thom listens in to the game from the sidelines bemusedly before heading off for the night.
I think it's hard for someone not to rage at mario kart, while shouting "Fuck you Donkey Kong. Whose dick did you suck to get all those red shells?"
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BhowSunny day, sweeping the clouds away.On my way to where the air is sweet.Registered Userregular
edited September 2009
I don't mean to interrupt the game occurring in the evening, but I wanted this posted before we leapfrogged to Pagraig's office.
Being an early riser, Professor Fighum passes through the common room of Wrafton's Inn before his companions are about. He smiles at the few faces he recognizes from the night before, pockets an apple and selects a sweet roll that he begins nibbling as he exits into the Winterhaven square.
In the cool of the late dawn, he spies the morning patrol guarding the gate, a few small groups of laborers heading into the fields surrounding the palisade, and groggy tradesmen opening their stalls. He munches the sweetbread contentedly as he strolls deeper into town, to stand before the tower of Vathrun. Licking the sugar from his fingertips, he gazes nearly straight up the length of the tower.
The fingers of his left hand dance from his right shoulder to his left hip, and his clothes gleam freshly, seemingly free of dirt and wear, with an added sparkle of the new sunlight here, and there.
Prestidigitation
He knocks lightly at the door post with an odd, irregular but confident rhythm.
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Powerpuppiesdrinking coffee in themountain cabinRegistered Userregular
edited September 2009
I think generally when people are posting the ready code, you can assume we won't move on until everyone has posted it. edit: Okay, I'd like to request the implementation of ready codes then. I want to know how I did!
His Lordship's manor is nestled against the northern wall of Winterhaven. On the walkway, above, a single sentry can be seen monitoring the countryside. Knocking on the thick oaken doors, you are escorting inside by a pump balding butler and shown to the audience chamber. A few minutes later, Lord Padraig enters and takes his seat at the antique desk set up on a raised dais at the other end of the chamber. Another servant enters, takes as seat at a smaller, more modest desk, and produces a thick journal. He retrieves a pen and inkwell from the desk. It seems this meeting will be of a more formal nature than you initially though. While last night Lord Padraig was downright jocular, today he is all business.
"So." He intones. "Tell me, travelers, just what it is you seek here, and on who's behalf."
Bhow, the wizard isn't answering his door (which is locked). Padraig can get you an audience with him if you pass the skill challenge.
So, at this point, you are to try and convince Padraig that aiding you with your search of the Keep will benefit Winterhaven. I'm not quite sure how I should work this skill check through PbP, maybe just start talking and making checks (history, diplomacy, etc) and we'll just muddle our way through?
Last night at the inn
"GHOOWHHO" blood gushing from his nose, the dwarf toppled over. He had mastered every aspect there was to Druckes, it seems, expect he never got the idea to dodge the incoming stein. This was the key to Thaladh's Master Plan for Victory. Rising from the floor a few minutes later, the dwarf remained in good humor. "A fine game!" he congratulated Thaladh. Reaching into his pocket he pulls out two small sacks. "This should help with any bruises you may have got, either from the game, or that nasty run-in with those Kobolds you told me about. Go ahead, take it, consider it your winnings. I've got plenty for myself." He reaches into his bag and begins to apply the ointment within to his nose.
Thaladh acquires Woundstitch Powder.
level one Wonderous Item
Standard Action, At-Will
Adjacent dying creature stops making death saving throws unless/until it takes additional damage.
That's pretty much it for the night at the inn, unless there was something special you had in mind. Your party and Coalstriker were the last patrons in the common room, and now he's headed home. And the wizard won't talk to you until he sees whether Padraig approves of your presence of not. So the meeting at the manor is where we are now.
About ready codes: a good idea, but not always necessary. For expedience's sake, I started the meeting with Padraig myself. I'll usher the PCs along when there's only one logical course of action and the NPCs are who would initiate things. Which won't occur very often, I don't think. ...and that's the last of my posts until tomorrow night, I think.
BhowSunny day, sweeping the clouds away.On my way to where the air is sweet.Registered Userregular
edited September 2009
Thom, Yuriel and Fighum can all rock the Arcana and History. Thaladh will be our go-to guy for Insight into Padraig. Fritz has the highest Bluff bonus (at +0). I'm afraid Fighum's +4 is our biggest bonus to Diplomacy. I'd better read the "Aid another" section of the PHB again.
What other suggestions do you have?
Also, what's our story for him?
Bhow on
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Powerpuppiesdrinking coffee in themountain cabinRegistered Userregular
edited September 2009
Do we care what Padraig believes? Can't we just say 'See you later mr. nobleman dude, we've got shit to do?' I guess what I'm asking is what we need from Padraig. Seems like we could just answer his questions and be on our way.
I don't really see what he has to lose by us going and ending the kobold issues. This shouldn't be a difficult skill challenge. Fritz will try to behave himself.
"Ah, Hello Lord Padraig. I am Fritz." He bows. "We have been tasked by the Royal Acadamy of Arcane History or something to find out what has happened to their first group of.. scouts to a keep that's supposed to be around. We're to find clues as to it's original purpose and, I am begining to suspect, end a certain kobold problem. Although that wasn't part of the deal, neccessarily."
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TiamatZGhost punsThe Banette of my existenceRegistered Userregular
Do we care what Padraig believes? Can't we just say 'See you later mr. nobleman dude, we've got shit to do?' I guess what I'm asking is what we need from Padraig. Seems like we could just answer his questions and be on our way.
We'll as far as any of us know, we don't know where the Keep is, not to mention we have no inkling of a clue with regards to Winterhaven's friendly (people) and not so friendly (monsters) populace or what types of monsters roam Winterhaven's countryside.
My guess is, if anyone knows the whereabouts of said Keep, it's the Wizard or Padriag that knows it's exact location, so we better get into their good books.
"Greetings Lord Padraig. No doubt you remember me and my colleagues from last night. If not, I am Yuriel Firestarter" Yuriel bows as well. "What my 'unenlightened' friend here means is, we're looking for a group sent by the R.A.S.S., who were sent to investigate a keep around here. If you have not seen them or received them, perhaps they have been ambushed, just like us, by those crafty (but sickening) kobolds."
"If that is the case, my understanding of kobolds is that they roam in large deserted ruins or caves, which could mean they might have set shop in the keep itself."
"But I digress, if you know anything about the kobolds and their operations, please do tell us. Or for that matter, what is bothering you and your fair town."
Almost as an afterthought, Yuriel asks "Is there a way we can gain an audience with your resident wizard. Errr... what's his name, Vartinum?
Roll Nature on general Kobold nesting grounds (e.g. where would they love to live and ambush people for a living) : (1d20)+ 3 = 22
Otherwise Dungeoneering if these Kobolds are subbterreanean species (e.g. do they love dark caves and stuff?) : (1d20)+ 6 = 18
History on Keep' details (i.e. what does the R.A.S.S. currently know about the Keep's history and intention?) : (1d20)+ 9 = 21
Lastly, gonna try my luck at Diplomacy, if it fails, you'll have to try and negotiate with him (Yuriel ain't a people person): (1d20) - 1 = 9
"Yes, the Keep...the towns records say it was built several generations ago by the Nerath Empire back when these lands were a province of their empire. But the Nerath Empire is no more, and the keep is but a crumbled ruin, long picked clean. What interest do you have in an empty ruin?
...Pardon, did you suggest the Kobolds have taken up residence there? We have noticed an marked increase in their aggressiveness and competence in the last few years. It's developing into quite a crisis."
Yuriel: Nature:The average Kobold clan lives in caves and generally in the wilderness. It would be an unusual Kobold indeed that would attempt to take a human built fortress, even a ruined one, for himself. History : What you know of the keep matches up with Padraig's information pretty much perfectly. In fact, you and your companions (Thaladh passive insight/perception: 19/23) strongly suspect Padraig's knowledge is just as secondhand as yours, and has never actually been to the keep himself, which isn't really that surprising. Another tidit: Winterhaven has been growing steadily more isolated since the fall of the Nerath Empire. If things continue as they are, the wilderness threatens to eventually swallow the tiny hamlet up.
To clarify: inquiring further about the keep would net you little information (the town's wizard could help you with that, though), but asking him more about the kobold troubles could bear fruit.
Arkan: your History check was, in short, inconsequential.
In case you're uncertain what your aims should be here: There are several goals you can pursue here. You can convince Padraig that aiding you would benefit Winterhaven (Diplomacy and History checks are relevant, and should be accompanied by an argument). There's also offering to deliberately help Winterhaven, and receiving his endorsement (and some gp) in exchange. We scratch your back, you scratch ours, that sort of thing. A bluff check would be nice to see whether His Lordship accepts your reasons for being here at face value.
Finally, you can make a streetwise check to see what information you've gleaned from the village's residents last night, and this day as you waited for the time of your appointment to come around.
Unless you'd enjoy talking to them individually, I can manage that too. The ADV has several characters sketched out for me, and I can wing it as well. It's mostly about what you, the players, want to spent your time doing.
You would have to act pretty OOC for this meeting to go poorly, I just thought it proper for the party to meet with the local authority figure.
One final thing: it seems I've accidentally assembled a party with no one dedicated to Charisma. I'll maybe start awarding Fritz training in Diplomacy and such as another form of treasure?
Thom scratches his chin. "Aggressive kobolds? You don't say. I mean, we were only attacked by a band of them on the way into town. I'd never have guessed!"
He leans back in his chair, looking thoughtful. "And if I had to go on from what I know of the beasts... well, an old, abandoned keep... It's practically begging for someone to come and inhabit it. You have kobolds here, you have an old, abandoned keep... doesn't seem like that large of a leap to imagine that's where they'd be."
He was, of course, guessing; in the back of his head, he was going over what he knew about kobolds to see if he could remember that bit of their nature. Would they really find the keep inviting? I vaguely remember something when I had to check when we ran into that one group back near Fallcrest...
Your lordship, you can see we come to you with many goals for our mutual benefit. Your family has long been the authority in these lands, though lately creatures of darkness have encroached on your family’s traditional territory. It must pain you to see your fiefdom chewed from the edges, like mouse-nibbled cheese. In the course of our academic explorations of the keep, we could act as extensions of your authority.
Should we return to the Royal A.S.S successful, you would be almost guaranteed to see a continuous succession of greater and lesser scholars flowing into Winterhaven to continue the royal society’s research, bringing with them welcome trade for Ms. Wrafton and all contingent tradesmen. In fact, it doesn’t seem far fetched to anticipate that a sect of scholars would build an archeological training school within these walls, to Winterhaven’ widespread esteem.
For now, however, vile creatures in the countryside, like those kobolds, grow ever bolder. Fritz could tell you of their plan to overrun Winterhaven itself, as told him by one of the reptilians before it expired from its wounds.
Bluff to aid Fritz’s check, if he chooses to make one: Bluff aid another: 1d20-15.
Ugh, no help there.
And if you would be so kind as to share with me where or when we may find Professor Vathrun, I’m sure he’s anxious for news from his arcane bretheren.
Bhow on
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TiamatZGhost punsThe Banette of my existenceRegistered Userregular
edited September 2009
Yuriel gives a curious glance to Fighum when the wizard mentioned tradesmen visiting Winterhaven. Trying to drive the point forward and to retain their foothold for the party, Yuriel asks, "Lord Padraig, when was the last time you received tradesmen. Not these people coming to town to get out from the snow and other dangers of nature, but actual tradesmen who, once they made a nice profit here, would travel throughout the land, spreading the tales of Winterhaven's generosity and modest folk (and rich pockets)?"
"For now, I too would ask our dear friend Fritz to explain the dangers the that the kobolds will indeed become a major threat to all the people of Winterhaven, unless they are stopped."
Roll History to determine when was the last time traders came to Winterhaven, and if they did, was it a necessary stop (i.e. did/could they make a profit here in Winterhaven?) (1d20) + 9 = 15
Well... unless that works, i'm out of ideas...
Also rolling Aid another to help Fritz's Bluff : (1d20) = 2 or 1 if you add the -1 modifier to my roll.
Sorry Fritz, but you're on your own...
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Yuriel points to many of the patrons in the inn, especially those whom he's captured in his eye. "Who's the old man next to the fire, that Dwarf over there winning all the card games, the 'peculiar' elf being flattered by Fritz and the man over there dressed in fineries. Tell me, is he a noble or upper class member of Winterhaven?"
"Also, could you give me and my associates some drinks. I think an ale will do fine for us, thank you."
Rolling Diplomacy if she might give us more detail of the patrons other than their names (likes/dislikes, what's bothering them, any importance etc.): 7 ;
and also Insight on that elf (never heard of a surly elf in the bar, unless someone died or something, but with that joke Fritz just made I wouldn't be surprised :P) : 4.
Damn my Attention Deficit Dis... ooh hey look a rock!
No problem, maybe there'll be another PbP up soon for you to try out.
He does manage to groan at Fritz' joke, though. "Yes, I get it, but I wish I didn't!"
"That old feller is Eilian, owns a farm off the road bout a mile out. He probably knows more about Winterhaven than anyone. The kids just love his stories, and he loves to tell 'em. The dwarf is Thair Coalstriker. He owns the local smithy. I tell you, he can really knock 'em back. The elf? Her name's Ninaran. Nothing wrong with her, she's just the quiet sort. Likes to left in peace to enjoy her drink. Your friend won't get very far with her, I'd warrant. The gentleman by the window? Why, that's His Lordship! He's a fine lord, we've no complaints. His family has served Winterhaven admirably for generations. If it's a trading relationship or whatnot to Winterhaven you're looking for, feel free to walk right up to Lord Padraig and introduce yourse'ves. We don't place much stock in pomps and circumstances here."
Meanwhile....
Fritz is fairly certain a colder shoulder has never been delivered in the history of existence.
"A human, an elf, and a dwarf are all contracted to build a palace for the great Sultan of the Efreet. Unfortunately, the massive dome collapses and the efreet's harem is crushed to death. Furious, the Sultan orders all three to be executed by beheading.
The human is dragged by the efreet's servants to a massive obsidian guillotine. His head is locked in the stocks and they pull the lever. The obsidian blade drops -- and then stops halfway, apparently stuck. The Sultan says "It is the will of Imix that you be live, so you shall be set free."
Next the elf is dragged to the guillotine. His head is locked in the stocks and they pull the lever. The obsidian blade drops -- and then stops halfway, apparently stuck. The Sultan says "It is the will of Imix that you be live, so you shall be set free."
Finally, the dwarf is dragged to the guillotine. Just before his head is about to be locked in the stocks he looks up and says,
"Ach. I see the problem!"
Draining half of the drink in a single gulp, he wanders over to the dwarf. "Mind if I take a seat?" he asks, before pulling an empty chair from the table and making himself comfortable.
Thaladh : "DON'T BOTHER ME NOW!" bellows the dwarf as he draws another card. "I'm on a winning streak!"
"Well, the chic was cold and quiet as they tend to be.. so no luck on my end. Any of you find any clues?"
"Okay then, while Shaladh talks with the Dwarf, we should try talking to the other patrons (Yuriel points discreetly to the specific people he's seen) and find out what they know about Winterhaven, the location of the Keep, and what happened to the other excavation teams. Almost forgot, we should try and ask them about any nearby Kobold nests or brigands we should know about; better be safe than sorry."
"So any questions?"
- An old farmer who knows Winterhaven like the back of his hand
- The Dwarf that Thaladh's looking to fight with (Which explained why the blacksmith was quiet).
- His Lordship over there, whom I assume we report to with regards to the Kobolds on the road and about the location of the Keep.
- Ms. Wrafton, who would tell us more of the people living in Winterhaven.
People we can't talk to include:
X- The surly elf woman that Fritz scared off with his less than moderate jokes (though the second one was better
So I just want to know who talks to whom, I'll try to talk to his lordship over there, Thaladh talks to the Dwarf, which leaves us with 2 more people to talk to. Also, I think Bhow should try to talk to his lordship with regards to the tower's occupant and find ways how we could get a meeting with their wizard.
Ultimatley, this is just my thoughts, so if you guys wanna do something else, it's your call.
Also TR, what's the price for stying in the inn? Ms. Wrafton never told us.
My money is on Thaladh btw. (FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT!)
The two cross the room to stand before Lord Padraig.
“Your lordship, please allow me the privilege and pleasure of presenting ourselves to you. My esteemed colleague,” gesturing to Yuriel beside him, “is Yuriel Firestarter, of the Genasi. I am Professor Quentin T. Fighum.” The professor makes a small bow. “The rest of our group,” swinging an arm out towards the common room, “you can see enjoying Ms. Wrafton’s hospitality.”
“We have been engaged by the Royal Arcane & Scientific Society to follow an earlier expedition’s trail to an ancient keep rumoured to be nearby. Unfortunately, the Royal A.S.S. lost contact with them due to causes yet unclear. Perhaps they fell to brigands, like the kobold assailants we dispatched not far outside your town. Have you recent intelligence of our predecessors, or an indication of how we might find this keep, and what may have met our predecessors there?”
TiamatZ: Feel free to embellish the conversation.
“What’s more, my colleague Professor Fighum wants to know more about your resident wizard, such as his name and occupation. Tell me, is he an illusionist or a summoner of some kind?”
And Insight to see what troubles his Lordship (probably the kobolds) (1d20+1): 8
Can't keep a straight face :?
The royal A.S.S.? lol
That would be the best academy ever! Science and Magic? Sign me up!
"Hmm? R.A.S.S.? Expeditions? I've afraid I've no idea what you're talking about, sir." Lord Padraig rubs his chin thoughtfully. "The kobolds, however, I am sadly quite aware of. And you say you bested a patrol of theirs on your way here? You aren't just your ordinary band of travelers, are you? Hmm...yes, I believe I can help you, or rather, we can help each other. But it is growing late, and besides, I make it a policy to never conduct official business with a gutfull of ale in me, eh?" He chuckles warmly at his own comment. "Come and see me at my Manor House tomorrow after we've both had a good night's sleep. I believe we shall have much to discuss."
Meanwhile, Fritz and Thom watch as Coalstriker, his card game finished, teaches Thaladh to play Druckles, a dwarven game which combines drinking, rhyming, and physical assault in a charming manner that only dwarves could have thought was a good idea.
Strangely, the monk seems to be winning.
Winterhaven: http://forums.penny-arcade.com/showpost.php?p=11715164&postcount=200
Winterhaven
Our journey from Fallcrest to Winterhaven was largely uneventful, with one significant exception. A band of kobolds (Reptilius Idioticus) assayed to rob us (or worse). My companions handled themselves admirably in our first test, though I somehow doubt our future encounters will be so straight-forward.
I conducted several enlightening experiments during the rout. Seeing the result of a fully empowered attack in Darcmajique’s style was gratifying. That trick will come in handy. I also had an opportunity to test the perception of our blind swordsman, Thom. I caught him (a little too strongly, I admit) on the skirt of a wave of force. Though sightless, he tracked our enemies expertly and swung his sword confidently, so I was surprised to catch him seemingly unawares with my blast. Perhaps his perception is focused acutely on perceived threats, leaving little attention for anything else? This, however, would leave him exceedingly open to ambush. Perhaps his perception has an arcane blind spot, sensing only physical objects? I distinctly sense some magic in his skills, though. Regardless, I must be more judicious when using magic near my comrades.
Winterhaven is poor, but hospitable. Yuriel and I introduced ourselves to Lord Padraig, who seems to be the town official. He claimed ignorance regarding the keep or the earlier expedition. He seemed to have something on his mind, but was reluctant to speak further, and he encouraged us to visit him on the morrow.
Before our meeting, however, I must present myself to Vathrun, curator of a wizardly tower that is the dominant feature of this small town. If magical happenings or history are resident in the neighborhood, he seems to be the one to know of them.
Tomorrow, we’ll see what Winterhaven can offer.
Yuriel turns to the rest of the group, including Thaladh and Fritz near the Dwarf. "You two have your fun with the dwarf, but remember we have to meet the town's leader, Lord Padriag tomorrow early in the morning. If any of you want your weapons modified or enhanced, just call me."
Yuriel waits until most of the group gets ready to go to their beds. Taking all the weapons given to him, he enhances the weapons, making them durable and lightweight for maximum efficiency.
Also, !Ready! for a brand new day.
Also, I'm fine with starting a new day and your journal entries Bhow.
As for the ability i'm imparting, it's up to the person who wants it, and what type of ability they want.
Here are the 2 options:
Impart Energy: You recharge the daily power of a magic item. An item can be recharged only once per day in this way.
Augment Energy: You infuse a weapon or an implement with a reservoir of energy that lasts until the end of your next extended rest or until it is expended. The wielder of the implement or the weapon can use a free action after making an attack roll to expend the reservoir of energy to gain a +2 bonus to that attack roll. An implement or a weapon can be augmented only once per day in this way.
Since no one expended an item's daily power, I'll grant the Augment Energy power to someone's weapon for the next day.
Otherwise I'll save this for when anyone wants to recharge an item's power.
Up to you guys.
I've also switched his prepared daily spell to Freezing Cloud--BRRRRRR--as reflected on his myth-weavers sheet.
So, you know, FYI, Incoming Skill Challenge.
Thom listens in to the game from the sidelines bemusedly before heading off for the night.
Being an early riser, Professor Fighum passes through the common room of Wrafton's Inn before his companions are about. He smiles at the few faces he recognizes from the night before, pockets an apple and selects a sweet roll that he begins nibbling as he exits into the Winterhaven square.
In the cool of the late dawn, he spies the morning patrol guarding the gate, a few small groups of laborers heading into the fields surrounding the palisade, and groggy tradesmen opening their stalls. He munches the sweetbread contentedly as he strolls deeper into town, to stand before the tower of Vathrun. Licking the sugar from his fingertips, he gazes nearly straight up the length of the tower.
The fingers of his left hand dance from his right shoulder to his left hip, and his clothes gleam freshly, seemingly free of dirt and wear, with an added sparkle of the new sunlight here, and there.
He knocks lightly at the door post with an odd, irregular but confident rhythm.
"So." He intones. "Tell me, travelers, just what it is you seek here, and on who's behalf."
Question answered and issue resolved. Nothing to see here.
Move along.
Last night at the inn
"GHOOWHHO" blood gushing from his nose, the dwarf toppled over. He had mastered every aspect there was to Druckes, it seems, expect he never got the idea to dodge the incoming stein. This was the key to Thaladh's Master Plan for Victory. Rising from the floor a few minutes later, the dwarf remained in good humor. "A fine game!" he congratulated Thaladh. Reaching into his pocket he pulls out two small sacks. "This should help with any bruises you may have got, either from the game, or that nasty run-in with those Kobolds you told me about. Go ahead, take it, consider it your winnings. I've got plenty for myself." He reaches into his bag and begins to apply the ointment within to his nose.
Thaladh acquires Woundstitch Powder.
Standard Action, At-Will
Adjacent dying creature stops making death saving throws unless/until it takes additional damage.
That's pretty much it for the night at the inn, unless there was something special you had in mind. Your party and Coalstriker were the last patrons in the common room, and now he's headed home. And the wizard won't talk to you until he sees whether Padraig approves of your presence of not. So the meeting at the manor is where we are now.
About ready codes: a good idea, but not always necessary. For expedience's sake, I started the meeting with Padraig myself. I'll usher the PCs along when there's only one logical course of action and the NPCs are who would initiate things. Which won't occur very often, I don't think. ...and that's the last of my posts until tomorrow night, I think.
What other suggestions do you have?
Also, what's our story for him?
We'll as far as any of us know, we don't know where the Keep is, not to mention we have no inkling of a clue with regards to Winterhaven's friendly (people) and not so friendly (monsters) populace or what types of monsters roam Winterhaven's countryside.
My guess is, if anyone knows the whereabouts of said Keep, it's the Wizard or Padriag that knows it's exact location, so we better get into their good books.
"Greetings Lord Padraig. No doubt you remember me and my colleagues from last night. If not, I am Yuriel Firestarter" Yuriel bows as well. "What my 'unenlightened' friend here means is, we're looking for a group sent by the R.A.S.S., who were sent to investigate a keep around here. If you have not seen them or received them, perhaps they have been ambushed, just like us, by those crafty (but sickening) kobolds."
"If that is the case, my understanding of kobolds is that they roam in large deserted ruins or caves, which could mean they might have set shop in the keep itself."
"But I digress, if you know anything about the kobolds and their operations, please do tell us. Or for that matter, what is bothering you and your fair town."
Almost as an afterthought, Yuriel asks "Is there a way we can gain an audience with your resident wizard. Errr... what's his name, Vartinum?
Otherwise Dungeoneering if these Kobolds are subbterreanean species (e.g. do they love dark caves and stuff?) : (1d20)+ 6 = 18
History on Keep' details (i.e. what does the R.A.S.S. currently know about the Keep's history and intention?) : (1d20)+ 9 = 21
Lastly, gonna try my luck at Diplomacy, if it fails, you'll have to try and negotiate with him (Yuriel ain't a people person): (1d20) - 1 = 9
Further reply postponed until results of said roll are given.
...Pardon, did you suggest the Kobolds have taken up residence there? We have noticed an marked increase in their aggressiveness and competence in the last few years. It's developing into quite a crisis."
To clarify: inquiring further about the keep would net you little information (the town's wizard could help you with that, though), but asking him more about the kobold troubles could bear fruit.
Arkan: your History check was, in short, inconsequential.
Finally, you can make a streetwise check to see what information you've gleaned from the village's residents last night, and this day as you waited for the time of your appointment to come around.
You would have to act pretty OOC for this meeting to go poorly, I just thought it proper for the party to meet with the local authority figure.
One final thing: it seems I've accidentally assembled a party with no one dedicated to Charisma. I'll maybe start awarding Fritz training in Diplomacy and such as another form of treasure?
He leans back in his chair, looking thoughtful. "And if I had to go on from what I know of the beasts... well, an old, abandoned keep... It's practically begging for someone to come and inhabit it. You have kobolds here, you have an old, abandoned keep... doesn't seem like that large of a leap to imagine that's where they'd be."
He was, of course, guessing; in the back of his head, he was going over what he knew about kobolds to see if he could remember that bit of their nature. Would they really find the keep inviting? I vaguely remember something when I had to check when we ran into that one group back near Fallcrest...
Pulled the bit about fallcrest out of my ass.
Your lordship, you can see we come to you with many goals for our mutual benefit. Your family has long been the authority in these lands, though lately creatures of darkness have encroached on your family’s traditional territory. It must pain you to see your fiefdom chewed from the edges, like mouse-nibbled cheese. In the course of our academic explorations of the keep, we could act as extensions of your authority.
Should we return to the Royal A.S.S successful, you would be almost guaranteed to see a continuous succession of greater and lesser scholars flowing into Winterhaven to continue the royal society’s research, bringing with them welcome trade for Ms. Wrafton and all contingent tradesmen. In fact, it doesn’t seem far fetched to anticipate that a sect of scholars would build an archeological training school within these walls, to Winterhaven’ widespread esteem.
For now, however, vile creatures in the countryside, like those kobolds, grow ever bolder. Fritz could tell you of their plan to overrun Winterhaven itself, as told him by one of the reptilians before it expired from its wounds.
Ugh, no help there.
And if you would be so kind as to share with me where or when we may find Professor Vathrun, I’m sure he’s anxious for news from his arcane bretheren.
"For now, I too would ask our dear friend Fritz to explain the dangers the that the kobolds will indeed become a major threat to all the people of Winterhaven, unless they are stopped."
Well... unless that works, i'm out of ideas...
Also rolling Aid another to help Fritz's Bluff : (1d20) = 2 or 1 if you add the -1 modifier to my roll.
Sorry Fritz, but you're on your own...