Freeday, Readying 14th, 591 CY
nearly 7:00 PM, cold rain (visibility 1/2, -4 Perception, -4 ranged attacks)
The two women continue on their course down Horseshoe Road. They have passed the mammoth Mercenaries' Guildhall and are approaching the old blacksmith's shop on the other side of the street -- the River Quareter side.
OOC: Please continue your conversation here. The Black Gate is far behind you now.
The woman looks up at the rain falling through the dying light, as if greeting an old friend entering a familiar bar.
ReplyDelete"Please go ahead and lead the way. I'll be following you, but until we're through your door I think it would be best if I kept a low profile."
With that she veers off the main path, toward the edge of the street, into the heart of a deepening shadow. Your eyes follow her path, her outline still discernable in the remains of the day.
OOC: Stealth check. 3 + 8 = 11. (I guess it ain't quite dark yet.)
I pause for a moment to make sure there are more than just the two of us traveling down Horseshoe. I know the area fairly well and take precautions to be sure we won't be ambushed. There is a small street coming up on the left as I walk down the road. I keep an eye out for any seemingly lurking or suspicious figures, and stick closely to the right side of the street as I continue to the blacksmith's shop.
ReplyDeletePerception: 19 +2 -4 = 17
As I pass Lost Lane, the familiar rumbling of ol' Radgo's snoring can be heard. I slow my pace and turn down the street next to my flat. I check that the alleyway is clear before starting to make my way up the stairs as quietly as possible in my current attire and condition.
Stealth: 20 - 1 = 19. (oh great. now I blew all my good rolls on silly skill checks)
I follow up the steps.
ReplyDeleteStealth 7 + 8 =15.
It is now very dark, and the steady rain causes any light to blur before your eyes. The worn wooden stairs creak with each step, but the blacksmith continues to snore uninterrupted. While Horseshoe Lane is quite busy -- as it is at all times of day -- the side streets appear mostly unoccupied. Only a lonely street dog watches the two women climb into the second floor apartment.
ReplyDeleteAshe's front door groans on rusty hinges and a dark, simply furnished room opens up before them. Everything is set for a single occupant, but Ashe is able to arrange a makeshift stool for herself as her guest uses the only chair. The street life out front and the landlord's wheezing are somewhat muffled allowing the ladies to whisper amongst one another.
Ashe lights a simple clay oil lamp and a couple candles, droplets of rain still falling down her face. She sits and examines her leg.
OOC: Role-play away!
If you'd like, you can make Heal checks, but there may not be much you can do. Rest may be the best thing... if you can rest. You've never heard of the Crimson Brotherhood, but there is an expansionist state that raised quite a ruckus during the Wars called the Scarlet Brotherhood. But they are active along the southern coastal regions, as far as you know, very far from here.
OOC: Meh. Sleeping 8 hrs only gives 1hp/lvl, or 2 with a heal check.
ReplyDeleteThe woman mumbles her thanks at the offered chair but remains standing, pacing even. She strips off the soaked cloak, revealing skin-tight leather, festooned with metal studs, designed almost as much for protection as to enhance and embellish her natural gifts in ways quite distracting to the males of the species. She turns the cloak inside-out, the other side colored the drab light brown that you had initially seen her in, and hangs it over the chair to dry.
"Apologies, but I do not believe we have time to rest. If you know a leech I might be persuaded to allow a brief visit, but I think this rain is a gift from Xanang and we should make the most of it. Indeed stealth now might win a prize that force alone can not. My plan is simple: Gather what accouterments you think needed, but allow me to carry them, including your shield, if you can spare it. With me bent under such burdens, and," she pauses, casting about room, lost in thought, "with, perhaps, some other adjustments, in this thief's rain I might go unnoticed as just another low-talent sell-sword sulking about looking for work."
Her pacing suddenly stops and her lips purse, as if shocked at what she just said.
"Um, no offense intended," she says, giving you a side-long glance. Her pacing resumes, "Then if you throw my cloak about you, and wrap a kerchief about your face you will look more the part of a foreign agent, returning to her rooms to gather supplies. Thus, to those that would wish us harm, you would appear as me, giving us many advantages. If they seek to come at me with steel, they will find your sleek and sturdy form in my place, where you might cut them down at leisure. Also, it will free me up to see the ambush unfolding, allowing me to strike at their flanks, as the hunter becomes the hunted."
Her pacing stops and turns to face you. Her hands slowly roam over her body before settling on her hips in what appears to be an unconscious movement.
"Does this...seem satisfactory to you?"
Whether the last statement refers to the plan or something else is left unclear.
The woman hangs her cloak to dry, and for the first time I can see the features of my new companion. She's certainly not what I expected. There is something odd, yet appealing about her visage that tells me she's not quite human, though it's hard to pinpoint exactly what gives me that impression.
ReplyDeleteAs she outlines her plan, I remove my weapons and armor and get what small supplies I have to treat my wound - strips of cloth, a well-used pot of ointment, and some water. My pants are wet and ruined, so I tear open the cloth further and take a look. I've tended numerous small wounds from the training yard, but this is a bit more of a beating than I'm used to taking at one time. I do my best to clean and bind the leg, hoping it will hold out for the activity to come. No heal check, just roleplaying the fact that I've got less than half my hitpoints left.
I can appreciate the tactical mind of the woman pacing in front of me. Her plan is clear and well-thought out. She seems to me to be a top-notch agent, and I have hope that we will succeed in fleeing Greyhawk with our lives intact. When she finishes talking, I say as much to her. "You have prepared a solid plan - I believe we have a decent chance of escaping relatively unscathed unless things go drastically wrong."
I stand and start crisscrossing the room, hurriedly throwing together supplies. As I pack, I continue fleshing out our plan. "In which direction do we want to head after we are free of the city walls? The closest gate is the Cargo gate, but then we have to navigate the warehouse area before getting far enough out of the Guild's reach. It may be preferable to trying to sneak through the city with our gear, though...." I hold up a backpack newly stuffed with survival gear. "We are not going to be particularly stealthy in our disguises. Plus, we might have a hard time leaving unnoticed - it was too dark to pack without lighting a lamp."
Finally, I start unrolling my cuffs and digging around my person, each time coming away with various coins and gems and setting them on the table. Soon I have a decent size pile, which I transfer into the money pouch that lies sodden in the lamplight. I take up the set of clothes lying beside the backpack and turn my back to the woman. I begin to quickly change into fresh clothes, better suited for travel. As I dress, I remember that we haven't really been introduced. "I'm Ashellis, by the way." I say over my shoulder. "What may I call you?"
The pack holds:
-As much food as I have on hand to pack: bread, cheese, dried meats and fish, canteens of water that will probably last the two of us 2 days.
-A heavy travel cloak, traveler's clothes.
-My weapon gear, such as a whetstone
-Survival gear such as flint and steel, torch, oil, bedroll
While Ashelis talks, Imagen keeps a silent count of the loot that appears as if by magic from Ashe's various cuffs, pockets, and smallclothes. What weird secret lies behind this? Is crime so rampant here that everyone goes about with light purses and heavy underwear? True, Imagen's time in the city has not been overly long, but she hadn't gleaned anything about this being a wide-spread fad. Is this something just this woman does? She can't do it all the times since she's transferring it to pouch now. This she-warrior has not shown any other signs of being an Operator, so such ingenuity must have been done on the fly. Imagen makes a mental note and Ashe's status is upgraded from STA-e (Short Term Asset-expendable) to MAPL (Midterm Asset, Longterm Potential).
ReplyDeleteSo, too, this new found wealth of her erstwhile companion opens a new line of math. True, there are things in Imagen's house that she would miss--the crowbar especially--but she had not had time to acquire items of either power or such rarity that they could not be had in another place, another town. For coin...or for stealth. It may still go easier with a pack of her own, but this was no longer of Highest Priority. It's lack would mean a lean march and a cool night, but she had any items of real use already on her person, and was inured to more cold than the Flanaess could muster.
Since she was not told otherwise, Imagen appraises the changing Ashelis with a cool eye, evaluating the hardened body built for function...if not for form. Imagen ticks off a mental list with the air of a grocer shelving new stock.
"The easiest thing would be to continue south along the Horseshoe, stopping at my residence on our way to the Marsh gate," Imagen says to Ashe's back as she pulls on a dry shirt of homespun wool. "But now that I think on it, it may be that my abode could be too heavily guarded to dare entry. If this is so, worry on it not. We shall walk on and be not lessened for its lack. Or, true, we might not even try that, and retrace our steps, but continue past the Grey College on our way to the Druid gate. I leave such a decision in your hands. Tactics was never my strong point," she says, running a lithe hand through caramel hair that falls back into place with the weight of powdered sugar.
"What is my strong point is on occasion I can see past the deceptions that men throw up with which to disguise their true intent. As I'll be walking behind you it may, on occasion, be needed to communicate some urgency such as 'Stop,' 'Go,' 'Be Wary,' 'Be Passive,' and 'Attack,' without calling out an obvious word. Hence, allow me to show you a few night-bird calls with which we might communicate simple commands."
OOC: You can pass a simple command with a Bluff 15, so I'm just role-playing the reason why Ashe would understand any of this.
BIC: Ashe, now girded for the road, turns about and Imagen greets her with an outstretched hand. "You may call my Imagen, Ashellis. Imagen Silvertongue." As Ashe accepts the handshake she's surprised when Imagen bows down...and kisses her hand. The move is so surprising that she almost misses the ray of lamplight glinting off a patch of bare skin behind Imagen's bowed neck. In the dim light she can't be sure but it looked not entirely unlike a patch of scales. Snake's scales. With the luminescence of burnished gold.
I'm momentarily flustered at the unfamiliar greeting and stand awkwardly for a second while I try to figure out how I should respond...do I need to curtsy or something? To cover my discomfort I clear my throat and begin to bustle about the apartment again, bringing over materials with which to create Imagen's disguise.
ReplyDelete"The Marsh Gate is a good choice," I say, focusing back on the task at hand. "There is more opportunity to lose a tail among the close-set buildings in that section of the city rather than the fairly open campus of Grey College. In addition, I oft visit the Temple of Trithereon - so if we need to take cover en route, I know the area reasonably well. We may perhaps receive assistance for our journey from the priests and priestesses there as well; I give what alms I can to the temple, and they know me there.
"Horseshoe Road is a good, open route. As for stopping at your residence on the way down, I'm leery. Our place-swap gambit will work on our enemies only once, as news within the Guild travels like the wind. So I hesitate to tempt fate sooner than necessary. I will gladly share what I have until we can get you more supplies."
I don Imagen's cloak and tie the scarf about my face, checking to see that my weapons are fully hidden amongst the folds of patterned wool. "When you are done, let us be off. I will leave the lamp on as we slip out the back, in the event that this house is being watched. May Trithereon smile upon our adventure!"
As Ashellis turns to complete her preparations Imagen allows herself a serpent's smile at the warrior's discomfort, flicking her tongue playfully at the chainmailed back.
ReplyDeleteShe spends some few minutes going over the warrior's disguise, adding a minor detail here and telling her not to slouch there. She then asks for the favor to be returned as she pours her long hair into a bandanna and ties it about her head, low on the forehead, just above the eyes. Spying a forest-green blanket on Ashe's bed she slits a hole in the middle and throws it over her head, in the fashion of a T-tunic or poncho a peasant or low-class fighter might wear. She she spends some times adding a few minor details and listening to Ashe's advice, eventually admitting that this was the best she could do and making ready to leave.
OOC: I'm completely fine taking a 10 on my disguise check. +5 with another +2 for Ashe's assist gives me a 17 (21 to appear human). Shawna, you can take 10 or chance a roll, as your muse moves you.
BIC: All through the time spent dressing Imagen keeps up a constant banter on various signals that can be used, including key phrases that can be placed into conversation. For instance, any message asking to "meet at the cafe on Fredrick street" means to "flee immediately;" saying that anyone are "spies, like us" means to "attack immediately;" talking about "my friend Val" means that I'm about to start improvising and just try and play along; and any data followed by the phrase "by the book" is completely false and the opposite should be believed.
"Be not so hasty to think that this ruse can work but once," Imagen says, rubbing the remains of a forgotten bottle of rouge she found in a dusty corner of the room into Ashe's face. "If they believe that I am you, and you are me, then if we switch again they may be confused. If they ignore the foreign-looking girl in the brown cloak and hidden face in favor of attack the skulking warrior behind her, they might find that you have resumed your place, and your armor and swordsman's arm might again surprise them."
Donning the heavy pack Imagen says, "As for the route I trust to your instincts. If you have contacts amongst the priests then we could do worse than seek their shelter for a small time. If we go south we must needs pass my place anyway, but if there is any traffic at all we ought to pass by unmolested and lost in the crowd."
OOC: Stealth check 18 + 8 = 26.
Imagen follows the warrior into the night, into the rain falling like angels' tears onto the Jewel of the Flanaes. She spares a brief glance upward, then walks into the rain, the night enfolding her like her mother's cloak, found amongst the remains of a trunk shoved into the far corner of a clothing shed--warm and drafty, far too large and never covering enough, but worth a snuggle; worth the time spent to wrap one's self in it and curl up and sleep--to dream of far-off places and roofs and walls not covered with forked-tongued masters instructing her to hunt, to seduce--to kill.
Imagen never knew her mother.
The route is planned out: follow Horseshoe until the right just before the Millstream bridge (Imagen's tenement will be passed by along the way). Then follow the course of the creek until Liberty Street is found. Then another right. The Temple of Trithereon will be on the corner of Liberty and Right Way.
ReplyDeleteThe women begin to softly make their way down the rickety back stairs. Amongst the creaking, they cannot help but notice that the rain has subsided slightly (it is now a bit of a mist), and the blacksmith's snores have ceased.
OOC: Sorry I've been away. A bit sick yesterday. Better now, or mostly better.
You may both try to assist one another. An assist roll has a difficulty of 10 and offers a potential +2 to a qualifying skill check. I'll need a straight Disguise check from Ashe, too.
OOC: Sorry. roll 9 + 5 = 14 on Disguise check to assist.
ReplyDeleteDisguise check +0 = 18
ReplyDeleteSorry, I was confused by all the rolling for disguises. If you need an assist roll, here we go:
ReplyDeleteDisguise check to assist +0 = 6
....um, apparently Ashe tries to put a sombrero on your head. "No, really, you'll look totally legit! It's a new fashion trend for skillswords these days."
The rush of the rain upon the rooftops has quieted, and now only a light misting remains. The air is cool and the streets glisten with the streetlamps shining off them. Horseshoe Road is bustling with traffic of all kinds, especially as the companions approach the bend where The Strip branches off. Imagen keeps to the side of the road, close to the buildings, where the shadows cling the heaviest. Ashe has lost sight of her several times, but thankfully, the strange woman uses her subtle signals to maintain contact.
ReplyDeleteThey weave through tradesmen, peddlars, adventurers, street scum, and every other kind of urban life. Some very obvious Guild thieves are even seen engaging in their illicit activities. They operate fairly openly, otherwise they could not be so easily noticed. As luck would have it, these thieves are a part of rackets not involving the ladies. They let Ashe & Imagen pass right by. The Guild is so large and widespread, it seems most of the organization probably has no clue the two of them are rather sought after. Then again, it could be the disguises are doing their jobs.
Soon, the pair approach Fortune Street on the right. Imagen's building is not far ahead, but on the opposite side of the road. In the distance, the elaborate sign of the Red Serpent can be seen, its flames licking the upper fangs of the wingless dragon that looms above the front door. Some say it was once lit using sorcery. It could appear in any number of colors. Now it is most likely fueled by whale oil or coal-gas.
OOC: Perception checks, please.
Lover's storyline is proceeding nicely, by the way.
OOC: I'm so excited! Looking forward to joining the rest of the group, but there's some pretty crazy-awesome stuff happening to Lover in whatever alternate dimension he's in. Can't wait!
DeletePS - This is Josh, in case you couldn't guess, but I'm listed as John Nevada on my Google account. It's sort of a pen name.
Thanks for the update on Lover! I'm really happy to hear he's been happily adventuring away off-screen. Looking forward to us all joining up :)
DeletePerception check 13 +6 = 19.
ReplyDeletePerception +2 = 13
ReplyDeleteThe women continue warily down the street, and they seem to simultaneously hear the same queer noise. It seems quite familiar to Ashe. They share a glance between each other, then look up towards the source of the rhythmic, hollow-sounding, dlump-dlump-dlump.
ReplyDeleteHigh above there is a cloaked figure dashing across the rooftops. It appears to be wearing a wide-brimmed hat and carrying a long, jingling pole. It wouldn't be visible at all except for a gout of flame that belches forth from the sign above the restaurant door. The flash brightens the area briefly. The figure stops & crouches on the eaves thee stories up. He is looking directly down at Ashe.
"Those bloody fishemen, again!" I curse under my breath as I look for a way to escape his reach. At least this time, he's chosen a busier street on which to ambush us. Before stepping out into the middle of the street, I give a discreet hand signal to Imagen that basically says, 'go around back, I'll stay here'.
ReplyDeleteLooking up at the figure, I glare pointedly with narrowed eyes and jut my hand upward, two fingers raised, palm towards me. I hope the rude gesture serves to focus my opponent on me for long enough so that Imagen can do her thing.
Imagen needs no more reason. The heavy-handed tactics of the Guild have worn their welcome. They might have been content to allow her to leave, but like spoiled children they have demanded their way once too many times and will need to spanked.
ReplyDeleteImagen, quick and casual, makes her way into the ally next to her building-hopping friend. If Ashe's plan holds true, his (or their?) attention will be focused on her, allowing an attack from the rear to succeed.
Hence, Imagen goes toward the rear of the building, stopping at the first place the looks like it will offer the best climbing surface. Indeed, the whole of this quarter has buildings better suited as rat-warrens and hopefully this one will sit no better.
Pack and shield are softly lowered to the ground to allow for quick climbing. Imagen tilts her sombreroed head upward and begins the ascent.
(Imagen is trusting to Ashe's advice that all fighters are wearing one, but she'd feel less awkward if she also had on a pink tutu and a coconut brazier while holding a plate full of butter. But GreyHawk does seem to be made of some rather strange people.)
OOC: Climg check: 15 + 4 =19.
omg, you weren't supposed to take the advice Ashe gave. She had a momentary lapse! And she's always wished she could pull off a sombrero....
DeleteImagen slips away, weaving through passersby (which has changed dramatically to a more heterogeneous mix of Baklunni, pure-blooded Flan, and demi-humans). The alleys in this neighborhood are laughably narrow, sometimes permiting little more than two people to squeeze by abreast. She moves as quickly as she may, hurdling over puiddles, crates, and a snoozing drunk for good measure.
ReplyDeleteMeanwhile, Ashe gazes up at the guildsman and presents him with a traditional insult developed in antiquity when archers from the Great Kingdom had escaped capture by their enemies and wished to show their opponents on the battlefield that they had retained their bow-pulling fingers (which often were cut off in captivity). The cloaked figure stands up and gives an audible laugh. He looks back down at Ashe and points jabs his finger in the air a few times... not at Ashe, but slightly over her head, it seems.
OOC: Rolls, rolls, rolls... Imagen give me two Climb checks, please, and an Acrobatics check (in case you fall). I'll also need another Stealth check.
Ashe, give me a Bluff, a Perception, and a Sense Motive.
The rogue has reached the back of the building where she can scale to the second story using a set of wooden steps. From there she must climb.
Bluff + 0 = 10
ReplyDeletePerception + 2 = 22
Sense Motive + 1 = 2
OOC: Nice roll on the Knowledge(history) Jason! =D
ReplyDeleteClimb + 4 = 20
Climb + 4 = 15
Acrobatics + 6 = 12
Stealth + 8 = 23
Imagen scampers up the side of the building as quickly as she can, but still, the going is slow. Everything is wet from the rains and the places to grip leave only the smallest margin for error. She raises her face into the mist and hopes her quarry is still waiting where she last saw him. At least she makes no sound at her approach. She is quiet as a python before the coils tighten...
ReplyDeleteBack down on the street, Ashe turns to glance behind her to where she thinks the thief is pointing. She twists her neck and sees nothing obvious right away (which is a relief -- she half expected to find an ogre waiting to bash her skull in). She then turns more fully to survey the area with a bit more detail, but only sees street folk passing by, none of them paying her a bit of attention. Ashe snorts and turns back to face her pursuer, knowing that soon Imagen will be slipping up behind the poor fellow...
... but the man is no longer there. She doesn't see him anywhere.
Back from holidays, sorry about the delay
ReplyDeleteI seem to have lost sight of the roof skulker and hope that he isn't fighting with Imagen on the other side of the roof where I can't see or help. I don't believe I've scared them away and scan the rooftops on the other side of the street for his fellows. Perception roll +2 = 20
In the meantime, I wait for Imagen to make herself known. If she can stay up on the high ground as we continue towards the city walls, that could serve us quite nicely in the event of an attempted ambush as well.
Tally ho!
ReplyDeleteImagen crests the lip of the roof in a crouch and freezes, melting into the gathering darkness like liquid shadow. She carefully eases out the dagger in her left ankle sheath. This one is called Closure and was taken off the corpse of a man that had been killing her informants. It's pommel stone is a night-black andural; a rare stone but of little value.
She moves not a hair but scans the rooftop looking for the fisherman that should have stayed in the tavern this night.
Perception + 6 = 17.
OOC: How do y'all write in italics?
blogger accepts limited HTML code, italics is one of them
DeleteAshe surveys the crowds around her in a much less-casual manner. Her eyes try to pick-out the little details in the people around her, especially anyone who seems to be taking particular notice of her. There is a veritable menagerie of different sorts of folks everywhere. All of them stand out in their own way, but nobody seems to have any unusual interest in Ashe. She looks over the rooftops on the other side of Horseshoe Road, but she sees nothing.
ReplyDeleteThere is no sign of the fisherman or of Imagen. The crowd noise around her shuts out everything further than fifty feet away.
Ashe's heart pounds faster, not knowing the fate of her new comrade, and not knowing when the next dagger will fly from the dark. The conflict and desperation must be plain on her face, for a heavy wagon drawn by a pair of draft horses suddenly stops near to her and the driver leans down from his seat.
ReplyDelete"Ahem... young miss... standing gawking in the street is a good way to get your pocket picked. Or trampled by a horse-drawn wagon. Are you lost?" He is traveling west on Horseshoe. His face seems wrinkled and leathery. When a bright blast of flame erupts from the Red Serpent's sign, Ashe can see that his dark hair is growing gray along his temples and down his mutton chops. There is a nasty-looking scar that runs from his chin up through his bottom lip.
I'm startled, I don't realize I've been hesitating in the street for so long. Where did everyone go?
ReplyDelete"My apologies, sir," I say before I step back to the side of the street. I don't feel right continuing on without Imagen - after all, I'm supposed to be protecting her. It would not do to take off without at least making an effort to regroup.
I head towards the alley down which I saw Imagen disappear. If I don't readily find her, I guess I will continue making my way towards the Temple of Trithereon in hopes of meeting back up there.
Ashe squeezes past the horses and heads towards the alley. The man on the wagon chuckles, "heh... I'm no sir." As she enters the alley, Ashe can hear him urge the horses onward and then the slow clip-clop as the wagon rumbles down the street.
ReplyDeleteShe must weave past some old crates & piles of refuse, but soon she is at the back of the building. The eaves of the rooftops around her drip rainwater into puddles on the ground. There is no sign of Imagen, but it is dark and there are many places to hide.
I curse to myself, uncomfortable in the cramped space of the dark alley. Before I head back out onto the street, I recall that Imagen lives very close to here, though I know not exactly where. As a last effort, I purse my lips and make the night-bird call that we had practiced in my apartments. The sound echoes in the close space between the buildings, and I repeat the call 2 more times before waiting in the shadows, listening for a reply.
ReplyDeleteListening intently, Ashe hears only an eerily familiar sound... a rapid, racheting click-click-click-click-click-click...
ReplyDeleteCurse these cowardly curs! Why can't they come down and fight like men! I spring into action and vault the debris cluttering the alley as I head back out to the street. Hanging around here is doing no good whatsoever. From what I've seen of Imagen's talents, she will likely fare well enough to make it to the temple on her own.
ReplyDeleteOut on the street I hurry through the crowds, making my way down towards Millstream bridge. (assuming I do actually make it out on the street. Need any rolls?)
Ashe spins and runs for Horseshoe Road, hurdling a pile of crates (and a previously unseen slumped over drunk, to boot).
ReplyDeleteOOC: You had by far the best Initiative of everyone, so you can do what you wish.
I'll be with my daughter over the next few days, so posting may be slow until Sunday evening.
Ashe weaves through the crowds, leaping over puddles, and heads southeast down Horseshoe Road. The buildings thin out slightly and trees rise up on either side of the street as she nears the Millstream and where it slices south out of Burrow Heights. Ashe sees a group of halflings juggling and performing feats of acrobatic skill near the bridge. She quickly hangs a right, turning south and looking for Liberty Street.
ReplyDeleteSoon she arrives at the corner of Liberty and Right Way where the stone church of The Summoner stands. The city is very quiet here. The bustle of people going here and there is not present in this corner of Greyhawk. The signature forked path (signifying the choices a person has in their life) leads from the street to the broad stairway leading to the main entrance of the sanctuary. Flanking the steps is a statue of a hound (on the left) and a falcon (to the right). Between the two paths is a statue of a lizard with a wavy crest running down its back. The approach is lit with street lamps. Over the door is carved the rune of pursuit -- the three-armed symbol of Trithereon.
I walk towards the entrance of the temple, feeling helpless and conflicted. Well - I made it to the temple...was that the right move? I stop partway up the stairs and look off towards the right, back the way I had come. Walking over to the statue of Harrus, I lean against it and stare down the road as far as I can, willing myself to see Imagen flitting through the shadows towards me...
ReplyDeleteI sigh, frustrated. Not only have I lost my companion, but my shield and backpack as well. I take inventory of my situation. What I need is information, and a new plan. I will wait for Imagen here at the temple for no more than one half of an hour. If she is still missing, then I will go back out and track her down. In the meantime, I'll go inside the temple and locate a cleric with whom to speak.
Walking more purposefully, I head inside.
Beyond the vestibule, Ashe can see the sanctuary open up before her. It does not have pews, like the church of Pelor she has visited, but chairs arranged in scattered groups (or sometimes singly off in an isolated corner). Though the temple is rectangular, the worship area -- although the faithful do not often use the word "worship," preferring "reflection" or "gathering" -- is circular. Doors located to the northeast and southwest lead to the priests' chambers.
ReplyDeleteOff in the distance, across the chamber, Ashe can see a handful of people reading or talking quietly with each other. Closer to the entrance a lone acolyte is lighting three-sconced candelabra around the perimeter of the sanctuary. He is dressed plainly, but has a shirt of mail links beneath his blue tabard. A mace dangles from his belt. He sees Ashe enter, but does not greet her. This is not rudeness, but typical of a priesthood that permits the faithful to enter without being disturbed (just in case that is their desire). He does smile, however.
Seeing the acolyte, I approach and greet him. "Life and liberty to you this evening. Might you spare some guidance for me?"
ReplyDeleteAt the priest's gesture, we have a seat among a close by cluster of chairs. I do not recognize this particular acolyte, but my presence in this temple is not so frequent that I would know all who serve at any given time. "I am on a journey which may yet end before it has properly begun. My companion and I are fleeing the city, both pursued by the Guild for two separate reasons. While I had sworn to protect her, we were quickly separated and I have failed to be of any use whatsoever.
"I begin to wonder if there is more to the situation than is apparent. I have lived in Greyhawk all my life and never has the Guild put this much effort into seizing individuals - at least, not individuals of my stature. Do you happen to know anything about either the Crimson Brotherhood or the tale of Balcon's lost treasure?"
The young man greets Ashe, introduces himself as Darness, and then blows out the flame he was using to light the candles before sitting with her to listen to what she has to say.
ReplyDeleteAs soon as The Guild is mentioned, he hushes her, looks furtively at the other people across the room, and gently pulls her by the arm so they both may lean closer to each other. He says, "I am sorry, sister, I do not mean to alarm you, but you should not speak so freely about such things. Even here. You do not know where their agents or pawns may be lurking. I might even work for The Guild, for all you know."
He looks about a few more times, and then leans closer so low voices may be used. "From what I know of The Guild, their plans & schemes are many, and intertwined in a complex way. However, it is my understanding that not all of what they do is bad for the city. I have heard rumors that those high up in The Guild are very close to the Lord Mayor and may even have positions on the Directing Oligarchy. They do as much to protect the people of Greyhawk as they do to prey upon them. I do not fully comprehend how this is done, but, then again, I am still young and have much to learn."
He softens his voice even further to the point that he is difficult to hear. "This Brotherhood you speak of, on the other hand... is another matter entirely. From what I have heard, they have conquered entire nations without one soldier setting foot on a battlefield. They use subterfuge and assassination to cripple governments from within. Then, apparently, they install puppets under their control into positions of power. Insidious, they are, but they have kept to the coastal lands far to the south of here, as far as I am aware. And they are the Scarlet Brotherhood, not crimson. I do not think they are connected to The Guild. In fact, I would imagine if any Brotherhood agents were detected in the city, The Guild would destroy them."
He leans back once again and seems to relax slightly. He sighs and says, "this Balcon... I have heard of him. A great war hero, turned mercenary, turned retired mercenary, turned adventurer. He disappeared a few years ago, did he not? I do not know what became of his treasure, or what it was, only that he came out of retirement to find it. It must have been something very impressive, for I think he was quite rich when he quit being a sellsword."
He stands again and walks to a nearby candelabra to relight the wick on the instrument he holds. "I hope that I have been of some help to you. You may stay here as long as you like if you feel that you are in danger, but if you have no further need of me, I have other duties to perform."
I thank Darness and let him get back to his duties. can I make a sense motive check on him to determine if I think he's telling the truth? If so, I roll an 11.
ReplyDeleteThe priest has given me much to think on. I stand up and slowly start to circle the gathering area, trying to piece together what I know. Imagen seems to have intel that the Brotherhood is operating inland, perhaps even within Greyhawk itself. She also intimated that they do indeed have allies within the Guild, and that it is those allies who are pursuing her now. That information seems to contradict what Darness just told me. Plus, she distinctly called them the Crimson Brotherhood, not Scarlet.
I pull up short, a startling thought flashing through my mind - is Imagen perhaps not who she says she is? Surely she could not be an assassin of the Brotherhood...
I resume my circuit around the temple. Well, even if she is associated with this Brotherhood-of-the-vaguely-reddish-color, do I care? She was using me to get out of the city, but in the end, I was using her for the exact same purpose. I am a nobody in the game of governments and nations. My desire is to travel the world and see what is out there to be seen and experienced. Should I care who is vying for control in the upper echelons?
I shake my head, as if to clear it of such musings. Ugh, politics. Clearly I'm not cut out for intrigue and intelligence. If there are plots within plots, they will have to be up to others to untangle. As for myself, I resolve to fulfill my promise of protection and see Imagen out of the city safely. I return to the temple entrance. It seems that the time to get back out there and try to track her down has nearly come.
At the entrance, Ashe looks out into the night. Water drips down from the eaves of the buildings around her and the air has a crisp coolness to it. Her breath steams slightly from her lips.
ReplyDeleteImagen cannot be seen anywhere -- unless she has taken another disguise again -- but two other figures are seen walking past. They seem to be deliberately keeping to the shadows, which is the opposite of most folk who try to stay in the lights of the street lamps. They are dressed in dark garb and keep cloaks wrapped around them closely.
One notices Ashe standing upon the landing before the temple doors. She is certain that he takes note of her as his gait changes its rhythym and he strays into the light of a nearby lamp. Soon his companion turns and sees Ashe, as well. The two stop, pause for a moment, then go their separate ways. One heads left, back to the Millstream Bridge, while the other goes right, heading towards the corner of Right Way.
Ashe looks down at herself and realizes that she is still dressed to resemble Imagen.
Unsure of what the two men were looking for, and lacking the second half of the ruse, I decide to get moving. Before ducking out of the temple and back into the night, I flip Imagen's double-sided cloak over to reveal the other color and close it back around me, drawing up the deep hood over my face as far as it will go. With another look around, I duck into the shadows and make my way towards Millstream Bridge as stealthily as I am able.
ReplyDeleteStealth roll: 11 + 1 = 12
Also, do I see the man who just walked back this way ahead of me anywhere? I'd be looking for him in the shadows and taking my own time both to make sure I am paying attention to my surroundings and to try to remain hidden. Perception: 16+2 = 18
Ashe rushes down the steps and winds down the stone path, flipping her cloak about as she goes. She looks back northeast -- the way she had come -- and sees one of the dark-garbed men swiftly moving along the side of the street. There are fewer pedestrians here, and the lamps light things quite well, so Ashe does not mistake him. In moments, however, he veers off the road and cuts left, suddenly disappearing between two buildings.
ReplyDeleteShe turns left at the end of Liberty Street and barely avoids getting trampled by a handful of horsemen. Dodging out the way, Ashe wonders if these are some of the same men who clashed withThe Guild at the Black Gate. She couldn't get a sufficiently good look at their tabards as they sped by splashing across the ford of the Millstream to her right. Catching her breath, Ashe follows behind them, careful to keep out of the lanternlight as best she can.
Soon she approaches the intersection at Horseshoe Road once again. The density of the crowds rapidly increases. Glances she stole behind her on her way did not reveal any obvious pursuers, but this comforted her little. In moments, she can see the halfling performers making living pyramids on the grass off to the side of the bridge. Several people stand nearby watching, but most folk simply head this way and that. The halfling on the top of the pile is juggling a handful of colorfull balls.
One of the onlookers applauds, but then turns to Ashe as she moves past. The man wears a hood that shadows his face, but he grasps her arm and whispers to her in a strange accent, "that is a thinly-veiled disguise, woman... you do not move like her, even if you are dressed as she is." Ashe is startled at his quickness. His arm was a blur.
Suddenly, one of the halflings cries out as colored balls fly in all directions. One strikes the man holding Ashe's arm and he releases his grip. He spins about in time to see the pyramid toppling over. There are gasps and and a few laughs as the performers tumble to the ground. From beneath them, out of the very ground, a man's arm -- caked with dirt -- breaks the surface of the earth and reaches to the sky. Whoever it is, they are desperately trying to claw their way out of the ground.
Amidst the chaos of this strange & startling sight, halfings scatter and passersby cannot tell if this is part of the show or some fell sorcery. They continue to gawk, but back away, not knowing what to expect next.
The mysterious hooded man departs, blending into the crowd as they flow past.
The so-called "warning" of the hooded man was startling, but the hand emerging from the earth has all but eclipsed my brief alarm at being recognized. I back away with the rest of the crowd, hand instinctively gripping the hilt of my longsword. My eyes are focused on the arm emerging from the ground. I can't fathom what is happening - some foul necromancy? Illusion? Attack?
ReplyDeleteI watch with morbid fascination for what happens next.
You hear a deep gasp for breath followed by fits of coughing, spitting & sputtering as the fellow yanks his head free of the dirt. He is a large man with dark hair -- though it is caked with earth, so perhaps this is difficult to say -- and he is clad in heavy armor. Both arms are free, so he tries to push upon the surface of the ground to escape.
ReplyDeleteAfter the recent rain, the man is covered in mud. His eyes, nostrils & mouth are filled with dirt, so he vigrously shakes his head like a dog after a bath. Grass roots dangle down from where they are entangled with his hair. People who are close by continue to move away, yet they cannot help but watch. Folk on the street who are coming by to cross the bridge stop and stare. There are whispers of "sorcery" here and there.
The man appears exhausted and cannot seem to pull himself out. He breathes heavily and frequently coughs up dirt that had gotten down his throat.
The man coughs and hacks, “air! *cough* Glorious air, how I’ve missed you sweetly!” He struggles to climb out of the ground using every last bit of his remaining strength. “Oh my aching neck. That’s gonna leave a mark in the morning. Little help here? Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.”
ReplyDeleteNobody goes near him, in fact, some of the onlookers turn to leave hurriedly.
I look around and realize that I am nearly standing alone. The crowd has thinned out considerably and the rest of the onlookers have backed even farther away. I focus back on the man sticking halfway out of the ground in the middle of the park. He...he looks alive enough, and seems to be in possession of his own wits...so I'm guessing that this has nothing to do with necromancy. It appears that he was mistakenly (or malevolently) buried alive, yet has managed to claw his way out of his early grave. For the most part.
ReplyDeleteI dally for a bit, unsure of what to think of it all. But when no one else comes to the rescue, I make up my mind that I can't just stand around gawking at this poor man's misfortune.
Edging closer, hand still ready to draw my sword should the situation take a turn that I don't like, I address the muddy man. "Uh, so...how deep is the rest of you buried? I don't exactly have a shovel on hand..."
"Seriously, I don't even know how I got turned around this way. I was sinking feet first, but now I'm hands first. How does that happen?”
ReplyDelete“Shovel? Did you say you have a shovel? Great, that’s gonna help a lot. Maybe just scoop around my chest, and then I can wiggle out. What’s that? Oh you DON’T a shovel. Well, poop. I guess we’ll have to do this the old fashioned way. Here, can you hold this shoe. It’s Ashrem’s. Poor Ashy…I mean Ashers. He hates it when I call him Ashy. Or was it Ashers that he hated? I can never remember these things.”
He continues struggling to pull himself out, “Maybe if I push myself with one hand, and you pull my other hand, and maybe I’ll just keep kicking my feet. What do you think?”
Without giving the woman a chance to speak he continues, “That’ll never work. I’m probably too heavy, what with my armor and all. How much can you bench press? Never mind. Stupid question. Forget I asked. Maybe you can help me just dig around me.”
He starts singing to the tune of Hot Buttered Popcorn as he digs, “Dig, dig, dig-dig di-di- dig. Dig, dig, dig-dig di-di- dig.”
Then he abruptly stops singing mid dig-dig, “Oh, silly me. I never introduced myself. My name is Lover. I appreciate your assistance. You’ll never guess what just happened to me…well, besides the last part where you helped me out of the mud,” Lover smiles.
He’s alive. He made it, and it looks like he’s just met another friend on this crazy adventure of his.
I realize suddenly that I'm goggling at the grinning man stuck in the mud in front of me with my mouth hanging open - I must look like one of the fish in the market. Recomposing my face into a less flabbergasted arrangement, I clear my throat and offer my own name. "I'm glad I can help. My name is Ashellis." I look down at the shoe I'm holding. "You can...call me whatever suits you best."
ReplyDeleteI kneel close and start trying to shift muddy clods of grass away from the giant man, to give him more room to wiggle. The earth is saturated from the rain and drizzle that has been going all day. It's easy enough to make a bit of progress with just my hands. I guess that's why he was able to get so far out on his own.
Looking up, I call out to a group of bystanders. "Hey! One of you grab me a sturdy stick from one of those trees! It's the least you can do if you aren't going to help out." I continue ripping up the ground as I wait to see if anyone else will come help.
As we work, I glance curiously at this person called Lover. "I certainly wouldn't mind hearing how you came to be in this predicament, if you don't mind telling the story..."
OOC: Josh... how could you, nay, how DARE you make a Hot Buttered Popcorn reference without also including a link to the song.
ReplyDeleteLike this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBYjZTdrJlA
BIC: The group of bystanders ignore Ashe's pleas. They either continue to back away, stare mindlessly, or move along to whatever business they were engaged in before. None of them are any help. She grabs tightly to the man's arm and pulls with all her might. Lover, meanwhile, pushes upwards with his free arm. He jerks his legs about to try loosening the soil around his hind quarters somewhat.
OOC: Ashe, you may attempt a Strength check (1d20 + Str modifier) since you have the best leverage. Lover, you may assist. Also roll a Strength check, but your target number is 10. If you get that or better, Ashe may add an additional +2 to her roll (that's how assisting works).
Oh, we're gonna have some fun now...
Strength roll: 8 +4 = 12
ReplyDeleteStrength roll: 13 +3 = 16. So with Lover's assist, we've got an 18 going for us.
ReplyDeleteI heave upwards with all my might, making some rather unladylike grunts as I do so.
Witha Kordian heave (the Greyhawk version of Herculean), Ashe pulls Lover out, and the dirt-covered warrior flops unceremoniously onto the grass next to the street. With his vision clearing and his wits coming back to him, Lover can see that he is in the middle of a large city. There are people all around him, but they all seem to be giving him quite a wide berth. Could he be back in Greyhawk again? That was where this whole strange experience began with Thorgrim & Chuck. At least he didn't end up in the middle of nowhere.
ReplyDeleteThe young woman in front of him is brushing herself off. She is dressed in mail and has a sword at her hip. A long cloak is draped over her shoulders making it difficult to discern her size or build (though obviously, she is quite strong). Her face is also a bit hard to make out. A scarf is tied about the lower portions of her face.
I finish getting most of the muck off of my hands and knees and straighten up. The man called Lover looks to be no worse for the wear, though his armor and clothes are in a distressing state. The need to continue my search for Imagen pulls at me to get going, and the reminder that my disguise has been all but useless has been making me increasingly nervous out here in the open park.
ReplyDeleteI offer my hand to help Lover stand up. "I must be going, as I was on my way to help a friend when I encountered your, uh, situation. However, if you don't mind coming with me a ways, then perhaps afterwards I could help guide you to an inn or wherever you need to go...." I trail off, unsure if I should drag the poor man into our danger, seeing as he seems to have enough of his own to deal with.
I continue hesitantly, "I must warn you, though - I am uncertain of my safety at the moment. You would be a welcome presence by my side for a while if you feel up to it, and if I can render you any other assistance once I have rejoined my companion, you need but ask."
I pause a moment, waiting for his response.
"Oh, wow! Are we back in the Free City? I can't believe it! This is where my adventure started!"
ReplyDeleteLover looks around in wonderment, "Say, want to go The Whistling Fish? Maybe Chuck and Thorgrim will be there. I bet they wonder what happened to me. Seriously, I hope they're all right! What if they're still lost in that temple? I would love to come with you on another adventure, but I really do think I should at least leave a note for Thorgrim and Chuck. Maybe I can leave it with the bartender at The Whistling Fish..."
"You see, we were at The Whistling Fish when my companions and I decided to go on an adventure. We visited the Gnarley Forest with the help this hilarious horse-guy named Febricio. Do you know Febricio? Oh man, he's great. Umm, what else? Oh yeah, then we met this crazy dude in the forest, and he he gave us healing herbs, which came in handy by the way. Who else did we meet? Oh yeah, we had to fight some people, I forget their names. I thought they could've joined us in our adventure, but Chuck and Thorgrim insisted they were bad guys. I sure hope they were right. I do feel bad about that."
Lover continues without pause, "So anyways, then we got to the evil temple, and yes, it WAS evil. There were giant rat creatures and traps and all sorts of other crazy things. So then, while in the evil temple we met this other guy, and I tried to tell him that we were just exploring and adventuring, but he came at me with his sword. There was no reasoning with the guy, so we had to fight. That's when things got interesting. While we were exploring the room after battle, and we found this gold skull, and the eye holes looked like they would be a perfect spot to put some gems. Well, earlier in the temple we saw some gems, but were too scared to grab them, thinking it might be a trap. Boy were we right. We went back, and Chuck and Thorgrim were too chicken to grab the gem, and so I just did it. I guess they were right to hesitate, cuz then I was transported to an alternate dimension, and that's where I met Ashy. Poor Ashy. He was a bit odd and loved mushroom soup, but he was super helpful. He helped me escape...sort of. When we got to the end, this rock lady appeared. He said she was evil, but she seemed nice, and I had to make a decision. I think it was the right one, but I do feel bad. But the rock lady did turn the gem into a ring, and that's where I got this."
Lover shows Ashellis a ring on his finger. It is a golden ring fashioned with the carnelian which has been shaped into a triangular shape.
"But I guess the rock lady. Rock princess actually. Well, I guess she didn't have enough power to just transport me out, so she had to use quicksand. I tried to get Ashy to come, but his foot slipped through my hands and all I got was his shoe. Well, the trip through quicksand took longer than I'd hoped, but I made it, and here I am."
Lover stands there smiling, "So that's my story in a nutshell. But yeah, I guess what I'm saying is, I'll come with you. But can we leave a note for Thorgrim and Chuck?"
Lover's story is just like the crazy adventures I've heard told by minstrels in taverns - amazing! I would love to hear more about the details of his story, but now is not the time. I really need to get back to Red Dragon and look for Imagen and the rest of my gear. Considering how chatty this guys is, though, perhaps it would be best to meet up with him afterwards.
ReplyDelete"Well, I do intend on passing by the Whistling Fish, but not until I find my companion." I return his smile, "I'm glad you have friends in the city. If you go to the Whistling Fish to rest up and get a bite to eat, then when we pass by on our way out of the city, I'll stop in and see how you are doing. Do you remember your way there?"
"That sounds like a fine idea! Thanks for all your help Ashellis. Wow! I just thought of something, since your name is Ashellis, I could call you Ashy too! Although that might be confusing when I talk about the other Ashy. Never mind. I guess I can just call you Ashellis. Well, thanks for your help. See you in a few." And with that, Lover heads off in the direction of the Whistling Fish.
ReplyDeleteLover heads off to the southwest -- pretty much the direction Ashe just came from -- and meanwhile, Ashe turns westward on Horseshoe Road towards the Red Serpent.
ReplyDeleteWhen she arrives at the mouth of the alleyway where she lost track of Imagen, it seems very much the same as when she was last there (right down to the snoozing drunkard propped up against the wall).
She walks down the alley, careful to keep her senses about her, and soon arrives at a "T" intersection. The alley is narrower here, but no less cluttered with assorted crates, boxes, barrels, and other miscellaneous junk. Tucked behind one of the barrels nearby is some of her gear -- her pack and shield. Next to the barrel is a narrow set of steps leading up the wall. It is little more than a glorified rickety ladder.
Some distance away, Lover tries his best to recall which way is best to reach the Whistling Fish. He is still a bit disoriented (and is still trying to shake dirt out of his hair and orifices).
Ah! There's my pack!
ReplyDeleteBut my brief happiness is dampened as I realize that if my pack is still where Imagen put it, then something must have gone wrong with her trip to the rooftops. I decide to leave the bag where it is and make my way up the ladder as best I can.
Climb check: 17 +5 = 22
A creeping fear that I left my friend to a bad fate spurs my adrenaline and I shoot hastily up the ladder.
Lover marches onward towards The Whistling Fish. It seems like such a long time ago that he'd last been there, and it was really just the one time, so he can't quite remember exactly where it was, but his current surroundings seem vaguely familiar. He's sure he'll find it eventually. After all, he's really not in any sort of rush. If he sees a passerby he can always stop and ask for directions. Oh, and maybe he could stop at Burgermeister Meisterburgers on the way. That place has such good food and their jingle is so catchy! "Burgermeister, Meisterburger! Burgermeister, Meisterburger!" Lover sings loudly as he strolls without a care in the world.
ReplyDeleteAshe easily scales the steps up to a landing, and then must climb a ladder up to a second landing. The last story she must cling to ledges, windows, and cracks in the masonry to continue her ascent. She is able to do it without much difficulty, however.
ReplyDeleteWhen she reaches the lip of the roof, she peers over first to see what might be awaiting her. Past the columns of brick chimneys she can see two figures near the far side of the roof. One is seated and is seemingly bound. The other is crouched next to him holding a knife playfully but dangerously close to the first figure's face. A large sombrero hangs across their back. It is very dark and far away, so tiny details are impossible to discern. They are speaking, but too quietly to hear.
Lover was able to locateThe Whistling Fish quite easily. It is a popular location in this part of town, so many people were able to point him the right way. Ironically, he wasn't able to find Burgermeister Meisterburgers (which is the place he most deeply wished to find). He does not know if he was just searching down the wrong streets or if they moved or -- perish forbid -- went out of business. But, of course, the latter suggestion is impossible. How could a place with a jingle like that not be a veritible gold mine?
With his mouth watering, Lover finds a table at The Fish that provides him an easy view of the front door should somebody enter. The minstrel playing upon the stage is the same fellow who was performing the night he and his two companions decided to investigate the ruins of Castle Greyhawk. Bono the Black is his name.
I can see the form of the sombrero, and am relieved that Imagen seems to have gotten the upper hand, though what she's been doing all this time is beyond me....
ReplyDeleteI hoist myself up onto the roof and approach the pair.
Ashe, at your approach the sombreroed figure nervously replaces the bound man's gag and rolls away from you. Through the dim night you can see a flash of steel in the figure's hand. No words are spoken, but you can clearly hear the call of the Avernum Nightbird, which is one of the answering calls you had been waiting for earlier. You repeat the earlier call and the figure edges forward, her fist still showing steel.
ReplyDelete"Who are you?" the figure asks with a voice of business and panic.
"Um, I'm Ashellis. We met earlier," you say, still a bit unsure of the situation.
"Liar." she snaps back. "The real Ashellis would've lifted her shirt to reveal her secret tattoo."
"Um, no. I wouldn't."
Imagen's face splits in wide smile as she steps forward, stuffing the dagger into her belt. "Sorry," she says. "Can't be too sure. This piece of drek," she kicks the foot of the bound and fully conscious man, "has been spinning a mighty tail. He says the great horde of the entire Guild will be coming for me just for knocking his fishy ass out. Something about 'what you do to one of us you do to us all'. It's complete nonsense, of course, but a city that has only one gang in it is already 2 steps past sane. I can't get anything useful out of him. You wanna try?"
I look sideways at the man bound on the roof. To Imagen I say, "Nah, I don't nearly have the interrogation experience that you do. If you can't get anything out of him, then it's no use."
ReplyDeleteI do my best impression of a heartless mercenary as I look down at the fisherman, eyes carefully cold and blank. "Let's just take one of his feet, as compensation for your wasted time." Quick as a flash I pull out my longsword, grab one of his legs, and kneel down hard on his shin, preparing to take a big swing.
Bluff check: 3 + 0 = 3
Intimidate check: 15 + 4 = 19
Right as I would bring down the sword, I break into a fit of giggles. "I've always wanted to say that!" I gasp as I collect myself together and stand back up. "Sadly, I don't have the tool for the job. This beauty is not for cutting off feet like a butcher." I caress the steel of my sword and sheath it smoothly, giving a toothy smile to the man on the ground.
What providence! Bono the Black, the very same minstrel who inspired Lover to go on his first adventure!
ReplyDeleteLover enjoys some mead, laughing and singing along to the parts that he knows, "Cuz I still! Haven't found! What I'm looking for!!!"
After the show Lover plans to chat with Bono to see if Thorgrim or Chuck have passed through these parts, but for now he just relaxes, simply enjoying the show.
"Oh, I'm sorry, Honey," Imagen says as she kneels down and raises the man's gag. "This is the nice lady that you were trying to snag with your big, long rod. Well, congratulations, she's here now. Maybe you'd like to chat with her about something? How about something bland, like what you were planning to do to her once you grabbed her?"
ReplyDeleteImagen adds in a stage-whisper, "But I'd hurry up, Pidgeon. She's not quite as stable as I am."
The bound & gagged man twitches and grunts a bit with sweat pouring down his face as Ashe makes a show of cutting off his foot. His eyes quiver with fear, but he maintains his composure admirably, all things considered. When Ashe stands up over him, he tries his best to regulate his breathing. He scowls & stares at the ground.
ReplyDeleteImagen removes the gag, and the fellow looks up at Ashe. "It should be no secret by now. The Guild wants the map. The bone-headed barbarian was supposed to have it, but then he got drunk and ended up gambling it away! That complicated things. My mates and I have been trying to acquire it without unnecessary casualties. But after this, it's out of my hands. Now The Guild will just take it off your corpse." His voice quivers slightly as he speaks, almost as though he wishes he didn't have to deliver the bad news. "That simplifies things."
Meanwhile, some distance away, Lover meets with Bono once his performance is finished. The bard says, "thank you for the backing vocals... very inspiring. Only, usually members of the audience don't sing over me... and they try to sing the same song. But, you know, I appreciate your enthusiasm." He begins to put his instrument away, and asks, "you seem familiar... is there something I can do for you?"
When Lover inquires about his former companions, the minstrel ponders for a moment. Lover gives him a description of the half-orc and dwarven priest. Bono says, "oh, those two! Yes, I remember them. I remember you now, too. You're good to get away from them, if you ask me. They were here a few nights ago. Started to ask me lots of questions about things that are better left alone. Maybe you'd better leave them alone, too. They left to go look for Merrick I suppose... though I doubt that they'll get that far without tearing each other's throats out first."
He slings his bag over his shoulder and starts to head over to the bar. Suddenly, he pauses and looks back to Lover. "Wait. The three of you didn't go to Castle Greyhawk looking for it, did you? Aww, you shouldn't have gone and done that... it was just a song! And I was drunk off my ass."
Imagen gives Ashe the Look. This is a universal gesture that means "If you're done here, I'll tie up this loose end."
ReplyDeleteHearing such bad news has put me back on edge. I clench my jaw and give a tiny nod to Imagen, perhaps misunderstanding her Look. Turning my back, I head back to the ladder, thinking over the options. We need to be out of the city, and fast!
ReplyDeleteImagen reaches for her dagger, ready to give some Closure to this situation.
ReplyDeleteAs her hand touches the pommel, a feeling of uneasiness comes over her. The best action is obviously to end him and move on, but looking down at his helpless form, hands tied, pants around his ankles, sweat dripping down his palid face, he seems too pitiful to kill. This sensation itself is odd, so she's unnerved doubly so. This hesitation is holding things up, and, really, will one theif more or less make any difference?
Her hand shifts to the sap, and she tries to think of something to say to justify this strange change.
"I'd just as soon destroy a starined glass window than an ass like yourself. But, since I can't have you following me...."
OOC: 11 + 1 = 12 against helpless defender.
Dmg: 3 + 5(sneak) + 1 = 9 nonlethal.
BIC: Upon relfection, that was dreadful. It was like something a pirate would say.
She follow Ashe down into the alley, and hands her the gear. "We've lead them a merry dance," she says, helping to settle the back on Ashe's back, "but I think the jig is up. Speed now is our friend. Lead on as you think best, I'll stick to the shadows."
OOC: Stealth roll 13 + 8 = 21.
BIC: "Oh, and Ashe," Imagen adds, "please don't leave me again. However expedient hitting things with a big stick is, sometimes my plans involve a bit more waiting patiently, and a bit less charging into danger yelling battlecries."
The women emerge from the alley back out onto Horseshoe Road.
ReplyDeleteThe unconscious Guildsman up on the roof has given them enough information to spur them onwards, but little more. Thoughts race through their heads -- Imagen somewhat moreso due to her internal struggles -- but they managed to safely descend the wall back down to the stairs leading to the alley.
The streets of Greyhawk are teaming with people. Most of them seem to simply be going about their nightly errands, oblivious to the perils facing Ashe and her companion. But as the sign above the Red Serpent belches forth its fiery plume, faces are illuminated and she can see a potential killer in each one of them. Two alone against so great a threat seems terrible odds indeed.
OOC: Which way, ladies? Left, right? Across the street?
okay, changing pov to match everyone else. it's just prettier that way.
ReplyDeleteAshe hangs her head, accepting the pack from Imagen. "I'm truly sorry for taking off without you" she says quietly, regret clear in her voice. As she raises her head to look her companion in the eye, her face shows a look of determination. "It will not happen again."
When they reach the street, Ashe takes a long look around and then quietly confers with Imagen. "It would be good to add another sword to our side if we are to have better chances of survival. I met a person who may be just what we're looking for, and I believe he can be trusted. Let us make our way towards the Marsh Gate, but stop in at the Whistling Fish on our way."
Ashe pulls out her shield as she continues surveying the crowd nervously. "I feel as though I'm going to be shanked in this crowd. Let's go south via Rotewater and see if we can cut across to Marsh Street via a less populated route. If our enemies are near, I want to be able to see them - and I want to have room to swing my sword around, if it comes to that."
From the shadows behind her comes proof that that plan is heard and understood, tthe call of the BlueWing of Arcana, a notoriously accomodating bird known to give up its nest at the slightest hint of provacation, and the song can mean only one word: "Yes."
ReplyDeleteThe duo is able to merge into the river of people swirling beyond the alleyway and across Horseshoe Road. Ashe heads west down a short avenue and hooks up with Rotwater. Turning left, she curves through a narrow neck sandwiched between the city walls and a huge structure. Imagen knows that this grand mansion is The Silver Garter -- she has had some dealings with them during her short time in Greyhawk.
ReplyDeleteThe course soon takes her south, and the crowds noticably thin out. While there is less chance here to be knifed by an innocent-seeming old lady or pre-adolescent urchin, there are substantially greater opportunities for an organized assault by some nerfarious elements of the city. Which is the greater threat is anyone's guess.
OOC: Give me a Perception check, both of you.
Perception: 4 + 2 = 6
ReplyDelete14 + 6 = 20. (not a nat. twenty, but still....)
ReplyDeleteSoon, Ashe can see the walls of The Whistling Fish rise up in the distance over the crowd of people that often flock to this section of the River Quarter this time of night. The place is quite a popular establishment in Greyhawk. It won't be long now before she is inside. Hopefully Lover was able to reach the rendezvous without any difficulties.
ReplyDeleteSuch thoughts bring to her mind the fact that Ashe has not seen Imagen in some time. Scanning the crowd around her, she cannot find her now.
Breaking cover Imagen casually scurries next to Ashe and says, to nobody in particular, "It looks like such a nice place! We should hurry before all the good tables are taken," sounding for all the world like a schoolgirl on a long-awaited outing.
ReplyDeleteImagen sharply glances behind her, and quickens her pace toward The Whistling Fish.
Entering the bustling tavern, the women notice right away the wrinkled and gray humanoid figure working behind the bar. He seems human, except for a heavier jaw, thicker brow, and rougher hide. He is also nearly ten feet tall. Ashe knows this is Gruenab, the owner and proprietor of the Fish. She has not seen him in some time, as he is getting up in years, but he is quite a popular figure in the River Quarter. He is widely known to be at least partly giant, and is a very friendly & helpful fellow.
ReplyDeleteThe tavern is quite crowded & noisy. Ashe doesn't see Lover from the entrance.
Lover is at a table near the door, drinking and singing raucously with no one in particular, "Burgermeister Meisterburger! Burgermeister Meisterburger! Everybody! Burgermeister Meisterburger! Burgermeister Meisterburger!"
ReplyDeleteFinally, Lover stops singing long enough to notice Ashe entering the tavern, "Hey, you made it! Everyone was just reminiscing over Burgermeister Meisterburger. I could really go for a burger right now. Care for a drink?"
Ashe leads Imagen over to where Lover is sitting and introduces the two briefly.
ReplyDeleteTo Lover she says, "I'm afraid our situation has become even more perilous since we last met. As much as I'd love a burger, I don't have the luxury of time at the moment. I am pursued by the Guild, and have no hope of survival if I stay in Greyhawk much longer. Imagen is also in danger and must leave the city." She pauses, hope and uncertainty warring against each other. "Would you care to go on another adventure right now? With us?"
Imagen raises an eyebrow, turns to Ashe, and incredulously asks, "So, this insane bard is the trustworthy sword upon which our survival depends?"
ReplyDeleteOOC: It looks like Shawna was faster on the hammer than me. Jinx! Owe me a smurf!
ReplyDeleteHa HA! Yes yes, viper quick! :P
Delete"Right, right. Make haste not waste! Lover's my name, adventuring's my game." Lover downs the rest of his drink, "Onward and upward. Lead the charge! Your lead is my follow, comrades!"
ReplyDeleteImagen gives the fellow a curt nod. Her eyes slowly traverse him head to foot and up again. Lover gets the impression that she's looking at him like a raw steak set before a connooisseur. He isn't wrong.
ReplyDelete"Greetings, my name is Imagen," she says, rolling a smile off her shoulder, her voice high and light like a stream with the giggles.
"Ashe, if you're done picking up strange men...?" Without waiting for an answer, Imagen makes for the door, opening it and scanning the street, lining up possibles threats and avenues of exit.
OOC: Perception 4 + 6 = 10.
As they head out of the tavern towards the city wall, Ashe keeps her eyes peeled for trouble. The gate is only the next hurdle in the party's bid for an escape.
ReplyDeleteAs Imagen pauses, looking around to determine the safety of the open area just inside the Marsh Gate, Ashe catches her and whispers urgently in low tones. "This gate was our closest exit, and perhaps the quickest way out, but what is our plan once we are out of the city? The Guild's influence reaches far beyond these walls and we will not be truly safe for quite some time.
"The road out of Marsh Gate leads west. You said you needed to return to your country to relay some intel...are we heading in the right direction for that, or do you have another plan?"
While Ashe and Imagen whisper in hushed tones, Lover continues to sing and chat, oblivious to any perceived danger, "Hey, so I know this really great horse-man. His name is Febricio. He's half man and half horse. Isn't that crazy? Anyways, he's awesome, and we should totally pay him a visit if we have time. Oh yeah, and if we need to stock up on healing potions and stuff, I know this dude who lives in the woods. What's his name...Mercl? Mermick? I can't seem to remember his name, I think it started with an 'M'. I'm pretty sure about that, but anyways, Febricio knows him, so he could take us there."
ReplyDelete"Oh, and I know you said we don't have time to stop for a burger, but if we spot the place on our way out, I'm gonna have to take a quick dip inside. I'll be real quick though."
Imagen follows Ashe toward the Marsh Gate, giving half an ear to the following Lover and his ubiquitous narration.
ReplyDeleteShe answer's Ashe's question, although her voice is hollow and soft, as if remembering poetry a long time forgotten: "Let us get out of the city and live to see the rising sun. Then might we dream of days yet to come.
The gate is so close -- just a block west down Marsh Street -- but it seems like an immense distance when the companions consider how intensely the exits from Greyhawk are scrutinized (Ashe is particularly familiar with this, with her experience at the Black Gate still fresh in her mind).
ReplyDeleteThe crowds here are not so dense as other exits such as the Cargo Gate, but there is also fewer people to hide oneself with. Each figure the group sees between the Whistling Fish and the Marsh Gate seems shadowy and furtive. Faces are nearly impossible to make out, and most folk appear to be making their own way here or there -- few groups of more than two congregate with each other.
Making their way towards the great stone tower and the single stout iron-bound door leading out to the Marsh Path, the companions weave through the people, trying to keep their distance from each one. The road might be sparsely populated this time of night, but The Guild has reason to be on the watch for Ashe and Imagen. The path might as well be a forest of knives.
Suddenly, a deep, ponderous creaking is heard. Up ahead, the huge door can be seen slowly swinging shut. Minds racing, the group cannot decide if the gate is being shut for the night or if this is some trap being sprung. There is little time to figure it out...
"Yikes! Looks like they're closing the gate for the night. We'd better get going if we're going to make it. Seriously, come on guys!" And with that, Lover starts jogging towards the gate, "Wait! Hold that gate!"
ReplyDeleteAshe starts hauling it, following after Lover.
ReplyDeleteImagen follows at a run.
ReplyDeleteAt first the watchmen do not seem to notice the companions racing for the swiftly diminishing opening, but then after Lover shouts out, it becomes apparent that they either cannot stop the heavy portal from swinging shut or care not to. A few of them turn to glance at the huge armored warrior barreling towards them, and they casually step aside to let him by. The women are in close pursuit.
ReplyDeleteOOC: Perception checks, and Reflex saves, please (everyone).
Perception: 8+2
ReplyDeleteReflex Save: 19+2
Perception: 11+2 = 13
ReplyDeleteReflex: 18+3 = 21
Perception: 5 + 8 = 13.
ReplyDeleteReflex: 8 + 5 = 13.
OOC: It looks kinda like a palindrome? I guess?
Also. Woot! 100 get!
Ashe & Imagen -- on shorter legs, but more lightly encumbered -- pass Lover about mid-way to the ever narrowing opening. The two women zig and then zag to slip through the gate, followed closely by the armored warrior who must slide through sideways before the enormous portal thunders shut.
ReplyDeleteImmediately as the group passes through, they each feel a sharp pain just below knee level (Lover simply feels a jerk on his greaves just above the ankle). Their legs are violently taken out from underneath them.
Taken unaware, Ashe pitches forward, but manages to roll in mid-fall to land on her shoulder -- her military training on how to fall coming in handy. Imagen also attempts to use her natural gracefulness to soften the sudden fall, but she lands hard on a stone in the road. Lover rumbles through and manages to avoid crushing the ladies beneath him.
Trying to take in their surroundings and recover from this sudden turn of events, the companions see a wire pulled across the road held by two men dressed in dark clothing. Two more dark-garbed men stand nearby brandishing wicked knives that gleam in the half-light. Two more on either side of the gate hold crossbows.
Twang! Twang!
OOC: Everybody is prone (need to take move action to stand). Imagen takes 6 non-lethal damage (keep track of separately from regular hit points) from the fall, but the bolt aimed at her spears into the ground inches from her belly. Lover is not so lucky and takes 7 points from a crossbow bolt.
Here are the initiatives...
Guild Thugs = 21
Imagen = 20
Lover = 15
Ashe = 6
Ashe, give me another Perception check.
OOC: Just so I have this right: I took 6 dmg on the rooftop, putting me at 4hp. The 6 non-lethal puts me at -2 and unc.
ReplyDeleteHuh. 6 from falling. Well that was...not awesome.
Another Perception check: 17 + 2 = 19
ReplyDelete"Ouch, that seriously hurts! Not even a proper 'Hello, how are you? We're here to kill you.'? How rude!" Lover shouts as he readies his shield. As he stands, Lover winces from the pain. His recent exploits have been hard on his body. Perhaps he should have rested a bit before going on another adventure.
ReplyDelete"And to think we could have been friends!"
OOC: So that's all I can do this turn, correct? Is anyone close enough for a melee attack on my next turn? Also, Lover is at a dangerously low 4HP.
Imagen lies still on the road, a nasty cut on her temple streaking blood down her face. Lover rises to his feet, pulling his shield from around his back where it was slung. A feathered bolt juts from his ribs. One thug shouts at him, "if you don't stay out of this, warrior, you'll see how rude we can be! Get down on the ground now!" One man with a dagger advances towards him, while another reloads his crossbow.
ReplyDeleteNearby, Ashe surveys her surroundings. Badly outnumbered and caught in an ambush, things look very grim for she & her new companions. Her eyes happen to glance past her attackers and sees a frightened-looking crowd watching but staying at a safe distance. To her right, Ashe hears a pounding of hooves and a loud rattling. Out of the corner of her eye she spots a horse-drawn wagon rolling her way. The onlookers part, and the scarred man with the wolfskin cloak that Ashe met briefly outside the Red Serpent is seen driving his wagon past the scene.
His glittering eyes meet Ashe's and he motions his head to the open wagon behind him. It might be the long shot of all long shots, but if she is quick, she may be able to leap into it as is rumbles by. But what to do about Imagen? Another thug strides towards Ashe. He looks down with his knife glittering and says, "give me the map now, and I'll make this relatively painless."
OOC: Lover -- drawing a shield and/or weapon will be your standard action. Nobody is in melee range at the moment, but that is likely to change rapidly. You may also utilize your Combat Expertise feat or select a combat tactic (i.e. fighting defensively or total defense) to further improve your AC, but that's up to you.
Imagen -- remember... you may be a bad-ass 1st-level character, but you're still 1st-level. Plus, you're more comfortable setting ambushes, not being trapped in them.
Ashe -- you're still on the ground. The closest opponent to you is a man 15 ft. away (and slowly closing).
"You want the map??" Ashe snaps at the approaching thug. "You want the MAP?!? You already got that bloody map off me!" She raises herself to her feet, eyes blazing, and fists clenched. "Or are you lot so low down on the Guild ladder that no one bothered to tell you that your stupid fisherman took it already?"
ReplyDeleteAshe pauses to look around at the thieves. "Or....? Has he not actually returned with the map?" She lets out a low chuckle. "Looks like someone made use of a unique Opportunity and has perhaps given the Guild the slip. If I were him, I'd be halfway across the countryside by now."
Bluff: 17 + 0 = 17 thank the dice gods for that!
"As much as I hate being used for a convenient distraction, I must admit, I'm greatly amused."
"If you want a map, I've got a Rand McNally of your mother's ass in my backpack. Care to see it?" Lover says menacingly as he unsheathes his sword. Lover is usually such a nice guy, but something about arrows to the ribs seems to have brought out a bit of anger as well. However, he quickly realizes that what he said was rather quite rude, "I'm sorry, that was a bit much. I'm sure your mother's quite lovely. I guess what I'm saying is, we're not here to fight. She doesn't have the map anymore, so there's no point in killing us." Despite his appeal, Lover doubts his opponents will let them go, so he stands ready and waiting.
ReplyDeleteOOC: Lover is standing in a Total Defense position, giving him a +4 dodge bonus in addition to his 1 dodge this round.
Ashe waits to see the result of her clever ruse, and thinks she may have just pulled it off when the man pauses. He stops for a moment, but then a broad grin creeps across his face. "Nice try... really, I am impressed. But the lads & I can't just walk away empty-handed." He starts to back away as the crossbowman behind him places another bolt against the string. "I don't actually care about the map, sweetheart..." He chuckles, "your life is what I'm after. If you're telling the truth, then I won't find it when I search your body." The speaker continues to back away, getting out of the line of fire.
ReplyDeleteThe fellow approaching Lover on the other side of the dirt track does very much the same, but with a quizzical, confused look on his face. He mumbles over his shoulder, "fill 'im full o' holes." Clearly he doesn't like the size of his blade compared to Lover's bastard sword.
Though her attention is focused elsewhere, Ashe cannot hear the rattling of the wagon anymore. She wonders where the mysterious man has gone.
OOC: Wow, Shawna -- great role-playing. Excellently done. Sadly, the dice gods favored the NPC just slightly more than you this time. Give me your actions (everyone who is conscious), and Ashe, I'll need another Perception roll.
arrrgh! Dice gods! Why? Why?!?
ReplyDeleteAshe readies her shield and draws out her throwing axe, squatting into a defensive posture. As she does so, she looks around for anything that might help their dire situation. Perception: 17 + 2 = 19
Much like Lover's opponents behind her, the thugs threatening Ashe do not seem overly interested in meeting a better armed & armored foe face to face. The one with the knife backs away until he is next to his comrade who now has his crossbow levelled to fire.
ReplyDeleteShe does not hear the man sneak up behind her with the tripwire held taut between his hands...
Meanwhile, the other corssbowman takes careful aim at Lover and pulls the trigger. The missile is easily deflected from the warrior's shield. The man next to him draws a second dagger and stands ready as the weapon is hastily reloaded.
The stout cord is thrown around Ashe's neck and her head is jerked back. The abrasive surface of the wire digs into her skin. Ashe looks wildly around her and sees only the two thugs in front of her chuckling and walking casually closer. Her own pounding heartbeat in her ears blocks out most sound, but she does hear a gritty voice close by say, "excuse me, lads... I need to get through the gate. If you don't mind making way, I would appreciate it."
OOC: Ashe, make a Combat Maneuver Check (CMB) to loosen the hold. Your modifier is listed by your melee and ranged attack bonuses.
Lover, you are using Total Defense, which is a full-round action, but think about what you wish to do next round. You hear the voice, too, but it's behind you.
Combat Maneuver check: 12 + 4 = 16
ReplyDeleteAshe thrusts her elbow behind her to loosen the hold, and then simultaneously twists her body while ducking down at the waist. She manages to wriggle free from her would-be slayer, and is now facing the man who had been behind her.
ReplyDeleteAshe backs away, in the direction of the mysterious scarred man, keeping the 6 thugs in sight in front of her. She keeps her shield up and axe at the ready, prepared to throw it at the first thief to threaten either of her comrades.
ReplyDeleteThe wagon driver succeeded in one thing at least. The thugs have stopped briefly to respond to him. One of them points a dagger in his direction -- though still with his eyes locked on Ashellis -- and says, "the gate is closed for the night, maggot, are you blind or just stupid? Now turn those flea-bitten beasts around and disappear... you're interrupting Guild business."
ReplyDeleteYou hear the creak of the wooden driver's seat beneath the man as he leans forward, and he says in a grizzled tone, "my apologies... if I'd known this was Guild business, I wouldn't have bothered to be so polite." With one hand he grabs the thug with the length of wire by the hair, and in the same movement, slits his throat with a hunting knife. Ashe feels a hot spray as the man's windpipe sputters blood.
The other thugs shout out. The crossbowman behind Ashe fires his weapon at the driver, but the shot is too high and the man in the wagon ducks it easily. People gathered around to watch begin to disperse now that blood has fallen.
OOC: Okay, players... let me know what your actions are and make your rolls. If things get too messy, I can whip up a quick battle map, but everything is pretty simple.
The wagon, horses, and driver are in the middle of the area facing the closed gate. On the left is Lover facing two thugs (about 15 ft. away), and to the right is Ashe who has two thugs about 15 ft. behind her. There is a dead thug on the ground not far from where Imagen lies unconscious. There should be another opponent somewhere (the man who held the other end of the tripwire), but he is unaccounted for at the moment.
Ashe throws her axe at one of the crossbowmen. Attack: 9+5 = 14, Damage: 2+3 = 5
ReplyDeleteShe then moves towards the next closest thug while drawing out her longsword.
Lover runs towards the nearest thug, screaming and swinging his sword like a madman. "Febricio!" he screams for no apparent reason.
ReplyDeleteLover is using Combat Expertise, giving him a -1 to attack, but an additional +1 to dodge until his next turn. Attack: 14 + 8 - 1 = 21, Damage: 5 + 4 = 9
The axe flies spinning end-over-end towards the archer with a whup-whup-whup! The crossbowman is yanking back on the string and ducks to avoid the weapon. The blade strikes him, but hits the reinforced leather of his shoulders. The man grunts, but the axe clatters to the ground without causing much significant damage.
ReplyDeleteAshe rushes forward to the knife-wielding thug as she draws out her blade. The steel sings against her scabbard, ssshhhh-kinkt!
On the opposite side of the wagon, Lover lets out a befuddling battle cry and tries to chop down the man with a dagger in each hand. The thug leans back to try to avoid the blow, but the huge sword still slashes him across the chest. He cries out & stumbles back, but does not fall.
Lover & Ashe hear a gravely voice bark at them from behind, "get in the wagon, ye dim-witted whelps! I ain't stickin' my neck out so we can fight all of 'em!" The grizzled driver leaps down from his seat and lifts up Imagen's limp body under one arm.
Ashe hears this, but has other business. The archer's bolt rings off her shield, and she parries the lunging thrust by her other opponent off her sword.
The other crossbowman fires -- the missile clattering harmlessly off Lover's shield -- but then drops the weapon and draws his short sword. The fellow with the twin knives backs away, but then circles to Lover's left at a 10 ft. distance. The other thug that was holding the tripwire is also circling, trying to get behind the towering fighter. The latter is swinging a length of cord with a weighted end.
OOC: Next round's actions everybody!
Nobody can say Greyhawk doesn't know how to send you off in style... if you make it out of this, it will be an epic tale!
As soon as she fends off the incoming attacks, Ashe immediately withdraws and leaps into the back of the wagon, lying prone to avoid the fire of the final crossbowman.
ReplyDeleteI take a Withdraw action, which, if I'm understanding the setup correctly, does not elicit any attacks of opportunity. At double my movement, I should be able to reach the wagon, yes?
Ashe turns to the wagon after maing one last flourish with her balde to give her some space. The wagon is not far, but she tries to launch herself into the back of it in one leap.
ReplyDeleteOn the other side of the wagon, Lover is becoming surrounded. The stranger unceremoniously dumps Imagen's limp body onto the driver's bench.
OOC: A double move is more than enough, Ashe. Give me an Acrobatics check.
Lover, we need an action from you. Seriously.
Acrobatics: 15 -1 = 14
ReplyDeleteSeeing the situation go from bad to worse, Lover follows Ashe's lead and runs towards the wagon, "Wait for me!"
ReplyDeleteLover senses a chance when the thug drops his crossbow. Without fear of a crossbow bolt in the back, the warrior turns and makes a break for the wagon. However, he is facing much more lightly-armored opponents, and they were already beginning to close the distance when Lover decided to withdraw.
ReplyDeleteThe driver begins to climb up on the bench next to Imagen, and Ashe hurls her upper body over the side of the wagon. Her leap is not enough to clear the side rail, but the weight of her sword & shield enable her to easily swing her legs inside with a tha-lumpt! The thug with the knife gives chase, while the crossbowman reloads and turns his attention to the man climbing behind the reins.
OOC: Things are moving a a million miles-per-hour... Lover, Acrobatics checks, please, then I get to make my rolls.
Acrobatics: 15 - 7 = 8
ReplyDeleteLover tries to jump over the side of the wagon, but only manages to get one leg over the rail. He is suddenly hanging awkwardly from the side of the wagon like a floppy metal growth. The thugs close in behind him. Lover looks up at Ashe (who is already prone inside the wagon), and his eyes grow wide.
ReplyDeleteMeanwhile, the driver is shot by the crossbowman, but he ignores the missile jutting out of his shoulder blade.
The other thugs rush the fleeing adventurers, but cannot do any significant damage. The grizzled driver finds his way to his seat, cursing all the while, and whips his horses into motion with the reins.
OOC: Attacks coming your way = 8, 7, 6, 5... seriously. The dice gods giveth. Four horrible misses.
Ashe, you're prone as the wagon lurches forward and one of the baddies is at the rail trying to grab you. Lover, you're hanging there like a side of beef. Climb roll if you want to try to get the rest of the way in, but you also have three men trying to stab you from behind.
From the bottom of the wagon, Ashe holds both hands out to Lover to try to give him leverage in climbing into the wagon. May I make a strength check to assist him?
ReplyDeleteOOC: You certainly may. It would be a teensy bit awkward, but it can be done. Roll 1d20, add your Str modifier, and then if you get 10 or more, Lover gets a +2 to his Climb.
ReplyDeleteStrength Check: 13 + 3 = 16
ReplyDeleteWoo! +2 for Lover
Climb: 20!!! + 0 = 20
ReplyDeleteAshe helps to haul Lover into the bed as the entire wagon lurches forward. The driver can be heard yelling at the horses, "HYAH! HYAH!"
ReplyDeleteMeanwhile, one crossbowman reaches down to the ground for his weapon after sheathing his sword, and the other reloads and fires. The missile strikes home again, this time leaving a feathered shaft just an inch below the driver's collarbone. Nearly a lethal shot. Luckily the wagon bed is nearly empty, so the vehicle picks up speed quickly as the leather reins can be heard cracking. The thundering animals cause the archer to dive out of the way as they circle about.
Two other thugs manage to grab hold of the rear step of the wagon and pull themselves up. Razor-sharp knives glitter in their hands and they clamber over the rear gate to attack Lover & Ashe who are still prone.
Ashe slithers backwards to prop herself up against the edge of the wagon bed directly behind the driving bench. She adjusts her shield in front of her and draws her legs away from the thugs. Finding where she dropped her sword to help Lover, she picks it back up and directs it at the approaching men. She hopes that a nice pothole will jostle one of the two men onto the shaft of the upheld blade.
ReplyDeleteLover screams wildly, swinging his sword wildly at his foes' feet and rolling around on the ground like a crazed jackalope, then quickly jumps to his feet.
ReplyDeleteUsing Combat Expertise
Combat Roll: 3 + 8 - 1(combat expertise) - 4(prone) = 6
Damage Roll: 7 +4 = 11
As the horses rumble in a half-circle and begins to head southwest down the road and away from the gate, the guild thugs climb up into the bed of the wagon. Two more bolts whistle over the head of the driver as he whips the animals with the reins. One of his hands controls the horses, while the other keeps Imagen draped over the bench.
ReplyDeleteMeanwhile, Lover swipes his sword wildly at his attckers, trying to dislodge them from the back of the cart. But his attacks are clumsy, and he struggles to his feet to get better position. Ashe simply tucks her vulnerable legs up close to her and tries to get her shield and blade between herself and the guildsmen.
The road is not smooth and the horses are running at full speed. The wagon shakes violently, threatening to hurl the three standing men off the side.
OOC: Ashe, you're still seated, so you're fine for now. Lover, I need an Acrobatics check from you. The thugs are able to stay on their feet.
Also state any other actions you have for the next round.
For next round, if any of the two men are close enough, I'll take a seated thrust with my longsword.
ReplyDeleteCombat roll: 8 + 5 - 4 = 9
Damage: 2 + 3 = 5
Acrobatics: 19 - 7 = 12
ReplyDeleteStill using Combat Expertise so +1 to dodge and -1 to attack:
Combat: 13 + 8 - 1 = 20
Damage: 6+4 = 10
Lover wobbles to his feet, but as the wagon thunders over a sharp bump, a violent shudder goes through his entire body. His feet leave the floor of the wagon for an instant, but he is barely able to keep his balance. One of the guild thieves lunges for him, trying to use the uncertain footing to his full advantage against the larger, armored foe. The dagger plants itself right beneath Lover's right ribcage, but a deft parry with his sword narrowly turns the weapon aside.
ReplyDeleteAshe jabs at her attacker from her seat, but the man easily dances around the thrusts and advances upon her. He attempts to use his weight & size to pin her beneath him. Ashellis has seen this dozens of times in training -- he will try to immobilize her under him, then go for a finishing dagger thrust. This time, it is lethally serious, not practice.
Meanwhile, Lover uses a backhanded swing from his blade to send his opponent reeling back against the rear gate. The wound is deep, but the man isn't finished yet. He braces himself against the siderail of the wagon, changes the grip on his weapon, and prepares for another attack. Blood drips through the fingers on his free hand.
OOC: Expertise saved you there, Josh!
Another Acrobatcis check from Lover, and an attack of opportunity from Ashe. Your foe is attempting a grapple, but you get a free shot as he closes in. You both might as well give me another round of actions, too.
Attack of Opportunity: 18 + 5 - 4 = 19
ReplyDeleteDmg: 3 + 3 = 6
If I am grappled by next round: Attempt to escape the grapple.
Combat Move roll: nat20 + 4 = 24
If I am not grappled, I want to try to disarm him of the knife he's carrying:
roll: 2 + 4 = 6
Lover feels his body growing tired. That last blow was too close for comfort, but he can feel himself losing steam. His sense of humor now completely gone, he just wants the fighting to be over.
ReplyDeleteAcrobatics: 6 - 7 = -1
OOC: D'oh! Terrible rolls all around this time. So does that mean I'm going to fall? If I do fall will I still be able to attack and/or will I be in some state of being off balance?
If I'm able to attack:
Still using Combat Expertise so +1 to dodge and -1 to attack:
Combat: 7 + 8 - 1 = 14 (potentially some other modifier as well?)
Damage: 4+4 = 8
The wagon rumbles out into the open country, away from the buildings on the outskirts of Greyhawk City. Trees replace man-made structures, but the stars and Luna peaking out from behind the clouds is the only light this far from town. On this course, the wagon will be haeding towards Zagig's Bridge and Ford Keep along the Selintan River.
ReplyDeleteOne thug tries to pin Ashellis' shield arm under his knee and grasp her sword arm with his free hand. Ashe does not sit and wait for this to happen. She twists the wrist of her sword hand and gives the man a nasty gouge under his left arm. He winces in pain and reels back from the blade, but manages to slash out at his opponent. The knife makes a glancing cut across her shoulder (3 dm.), but it was aimed at her throat.
Meanwhile, the wagon wheel strikes a rock which sends a wild jerk through the bed. Both Lover and his attacker and sent off their feet and crashing to the floor or slamming against the rail.
OOC: Shaken and now prone, the attacks of both fallen men go awry. But, at least Ashe has avoided the grapple and wounded her foe. Both heroes are quite badly hurt now, however.
Lover struggles to position himself better, not daring to try to stand again. When will this fighting end? Shield still in hand, Lover continues to swing exhaustedly at his foe. "Just remember, whoever's still alive after this fight will have to clean the carpets."
ReplyDeleteCan I attack while prone? Combat Expertise, so +1 to dodge and -1 to attack:
Combat: 8 + 8 - 1 = 15
Damage: 4 + 4 = 8
Lover -- and presumably his opponent -- are stunned by the rocky ride, but still continue to flail wildly at each other. The armored warrior nearly splinters the side rail in twain as he delivers a dazed downward chop. The thug manages to roll out of the blade's path, avoiding death, but causing his own attacks to fly harmlessly wide.
ReplyDeleteOOC: Attacks while prone are made at -4 on the die.
Whose turn is it?
ReplyDeleteoops, I think that would be me
DeleteLover has no thought for tactics or strategy. He simply keeps striking his sword towards the enemy, wishin' and hopin' and thinkin' and prayin' that one of his blows will land. Suddenly, a song fills his head, and for the first time in what feels like forever, Lover smiles.
ReplyDeleteCombat Expertise, so +1 to dodge and -1 to attack:
Combat: 17 + 8 - 1 - 4(prone) = 20
Damage: 9 + 4 = 13
Lover's sword gets wedged in the railing, and the thug sees a perfect opening to strike. The man pushes himself off the back gate and lunges towards the warrior who is propped up on his back (and strangely, humming to himself). With one mighty heave, Lover yanks his blade free just in time to have the point thrust straight into the assailant's mouth.
ReplyDeleteAfter a gruesome "ghrrgh!" sound, the Guildsman's body goes instantly stiff, and Lover sways his weapon towards the side of the wagon where the dead man slides off and is pitched uncermoniously over onto the road.
OOC: I was trying to find the version that Matt Damon sings on "Will & Grace," which is the funniest damn thing in the world. But this will have to do.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycbgHM1mI0k
Ashe takes advantage of the kerfuffle on the other side of the wagon bed to get in one more thrust, her adrenaline keeping her swinging, but her energy flagging dangerously.
ReplyDeleteAttack: 15 + 5 - 4 = 16
Damage: 8 + 3 = 11
Ashe shouts as she drives the point of her weapon forward. The Guildsman has his knife poised for a finishing blow, but he left his vulnerable stomach open. The sword punches through his armor and slides in to the hilt. The man is dead before he comes heavily to rest upon Ashe.
ReplyDeleteNearly spent of strength after the harrowing ordeal, the warrior grunts with exertion and manages to roll the thug off to the side where he thuds onto the wagon bed. Both Ashe and Lover are bloodied and battered (at least some of the blood is not theirs), and they try to catch their breaths.
Imagen seems to mumble and twitch a bit on the bench. The driver keeps one hand on her to hold her in place. Her dreams don't seem to be much better than the others' reality.
The wagon continues to rumble down the road under the night sky. Stars begin to peek out from behind the passing rainclouds. The driver eases up on the reins, and the ride becomes a bit less bumpy.
The grizzled man barks without turning around, "do you mind disposing of that garbage? I don't like hauling anything that hasn't been paid for. Which reminds me... I know where I'm going? Where are the two -- I mean three -- of you going?"
OOC: Take a breath everybody. You're out of Greyhawk.
Lover & Ashe, please take 400 xp for combat. Imagen, you get 200 xp.
Imagen & Ashe, add 300 xp for great role-playing and skill use during your adventures through the city.
I'll be starting a new thread shortly.