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 To those of Strong Arm, Keen Mind, and Curiosity, Salutations! See the man in blue at the Wyvern Watch Inn before the 23rd if you wish to hear a peculiar riddle, and are willing to undertake a commission to discover its answer. -T.D Having recently wandered into Wheloon, perhaps alone, perhaps with others, the job notice on the town job board had caught your eye and you now find yourselves outside the large Wyvern's Watch Inn. With the sun setting, you walk inside to be greeted by the hubbub and bustle of a very full common room. Still, as the announcement said, there is indeed an older gentleman in towards the rear of the common room dressed almost entirely in blue. In fact, between the blue robe, the deep blue cloak, and the blue skullcap, his white beard seems almost out of place. Reaching the table, the old man looks wary at first, but the sight of Dina puts him at ease. Ah, Welcome, welcome! I suppose you've all seen my request? My name is Tunaster Dranik, a wandering priest of Mystra, and I've recently come across a most odd mystery, one involving that new temple of Mystra right up the road. Oh, but first have a seat and some drinks and introductions. I've always found that conversations go better with something for a dry throat." With that, he signals for one of the waitresses. Aaand, go!
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Apr 9, 2014 01:57
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Dramatis Personae Our Brave Heroes  Barkley played by Waador. Xerxes of the Breath played by Ryuujin. Marcon bel Tern played by Bouquet. Dina Caloma played by Piell. Anciano Manaallin played by EclecticTastes. Ivan Oglaf played by Quornes. Ishmael The Adorned Sentry played by El Fappo.Notable NPCs Tunaster Dranik : An elderly priest of Mystra who hired you to investigate a mystery. Maximanus Tholl : Leader of the Purple Dragon contingent in Wheloon. Sarp Redbeard : Lord of Wheloon. Katriana Donohar: Head priestess of Harvest Hall. Shan Thar : Priest of Mystra in charge of the outer courtyard at the Temple of Mystra. Locations of Note Temple of Mystra: Recently built, this is the first temple to the Goddess of Magic in the kingdom of Cormyr. Wyvern Ferry Route: Due to the quantity of river traffic as well as personally owned watercraft, the ferry across the river is extremely cheap. 1cp to cross, plus 1 cp per parcel needing to be set on the deck instead of carried. A wagon or animal requires another cp. Wyvern Watch Inn: Largest and most successful inn in Wheloon. Due to the longtime innkeeper currently building another inn in Arabel, currently run by his two daughters. The inn is very popular, and the fact that they don’t currently water down the beer and wine has made it even more so. Rates starting at 1sp a night. Lantern Inn & Boathouse: Excellent place to rent a boat at any time of day or night with little fuss. Very large parties occasionally prefer it to the Wyvern Watch due to private dining rooms, but the meals tend to be expensive. Oldstone Hall: Home of Lord Sarp Redbeard. Sendever’s Stables: Good place to purchase, sell, or board a horse. Though somewhat expensive, the owner takes excellent care of its animals and never sells an unhealthy horse. One can occasionally find exotic mounts such as pegasi here, but they tend to be sold at auction to the highest bidder. Haerldoun’s Helms & Shields: A former adventurer runs this shop and smithy, which unsurprisingly sells protective gear. Slowtooth’s Weaponry: Though some of the other shops carry some weapons, this is the primary store in town for those looking for lethal implements. God’s Grove: A spot commonly used for weddings and picnics, and some use it to worship Silvanus as well. There is a druid in attendance. Harvest Hall: The primary, though modest, church for Wheloon. Dedicated to Chauntea. Has a number of divine scrolls for sale. Hanno’s Herbs & Medicines: Your go-to shop for alchemical items, herbs, poultices, and medicines for ailments. Also keeps potions in stock. Rallogar’s Hardware: Sells just about any common item you might need not found elsewhere in town, though it might take some time to find what you’re looking for in this mess of a store. Map of Cormyr  Map of Wheloon 
Lord Koth fucked around with this message at 05:50 on Apr 18, 2014 |
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Apr 9, 2014 02:01
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Barkley Although not technically required, given his adventuring charter and other meticulously-kept paperwork, Barkley stepped down into the main floor of the inn this evening with a highly visible peace-bond adorning his solid silver warhammer, fastening it securely to his belt and making it essentially impossible to bring to bear with any particular ease. Given their size (and relative inability to effectively sheathe), he had also taken the unusual step of leaving his other more cumbersome weapons behind the locked door of the room he had rented upstairs. Although one never knew if they would need to be armed or not until it was too late to change their mind, he was smart enough to know that if a bar fight did break out, the first one to draw a weapon - licensed or not - wasn't going to be looked upon favorably by the authorities, so the peace-bond was just a cost of doing business (and an effective way, he suspected, of helping to put new faces and clients at ease). Having arrived in Wheloon only earlier this afternoon, and needing to spend an obligatory few hours depositing the client he was escorting to the area into his own accommodations, Barkley had barely had enough time to find an inn to store his own belongings, let alone get any rest before this evening's events. Although a part of him thought it'd be easier to just ignore the posting and get some rest in his room, he was unfortunately running somewhat low on funds, having only recently invested in the solid silver warhammer that now adorned his outfit (as well as a shirt of fine new mithral chain, which he was also sporting, albeit underneath his evening clothes). As a result, if there was even the slightest chance this cryptic posting could turn itself into paying work, he figured it was worth the small sacrifice of an hour's worth of sleep. Stepping down from the staircase landing that led up to the guest rooms, it didn't take him long to notice the promised contact of the 'man in blue', who certainly seemed to take his wardrobe quite seriously when it came to color coordination. He approached the table tentatively, and took a seat after realizing that he recognized a few of the faces that had already gathered. Nodding his head to the man in blue, as well as to those already present, he did as asked and provided a bit of an introduction. "It's always a pleasure to meet a prospective employer, Mr. Dranik. It would seem I already know a few of the faces at this table, but for those of you new to me," he paused, nodding to each of the previously-unknown adventurers, "my name is Barkley. I have recently come to this fine village, escorting a merchant from the port of Marsember who had to come to the area to deal with the ill fortune of a loved one. With no other obligations at present, and finding myself a bit short of coin, the opportunity for paying work is certainly an appealing prospect." He raises an eyebrow at Tunaster at this point in time, getting straight to business as usual, and inquiring, "This is, of course, paying work, isn't it Mr. Dranik?" Realizing there was, perhaps, a more important question than the compensation involved, he quickly continued past that query to also ask, "Though, admittedly, before we get to the topic of compensation, I must admit I am deeply interested in the mystery behind this gathering. What need does a cleric of Mystra have with two fistfuls of seemingly adept warriors in a town such as Wheloon, and how could that possibly relate to a temple to your very deity?" Barkley was innately suspicious of any intra-church dealings, in truth. Although he knew relatively little of the faithful of Mystra, having spent a decade dealing with the political intrigue of the faithful of the Maskarran back in Westgate, he wouldn't put it past a cleric looking to better his lot in life by discrediting or funding the happy accident of another member of the faith. Still, Mystra was known to be a lawful deity, if not necessarily a goodly one, so he was hopeful that this wasn't the case in this scenario. Although his introduction revealed relatively little about himself, he gave a few social cues to indicate his was finished, and looked to the others at the table to hear what they might have to say. pre:Character sheet reference: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Name: Barkley Alignment: Chaotic Neutral Class (1): Dark (1) Draconic (1) Skulk (3) Class (2): Warblade (5) Race: Skulk Size: Medium Type: Humanoid (human) (extraplanar) (dragonblood) Home Region: The Dragon Coast (Port of Westgate) STR 18 (+4) [14 base + 2 draconic + 1 HD + 1 item] INT 16 (+3) [16 base] DEX 18 (+4) [14 base + 4 skulk] WIS 6 (-2) [ 8 base - 2 skulk] CON 18 (+4) [16 base + 2 draconic] CHA 6 (-2) [ 8 base - 4 skulk + 2 draconic] HP 68 / 68 [12 + 36 (4d12) + 20 ability] Fortitude + 8 [4 warblade + 4 ability] BaB +5 [5 warblade] Reflex +10 [3 skulk + 4 ability + 3 battle clarity] Initiative +4 [4 ability] Will - 1 [1 warblade - 2 ability] AC (base) 19 [10 base + 4 ability + 4 armor + 1 natural] (flat) 15 [10 base + 0 ability + 4 armor + 1 natural] (touch) 14 [10 base + 4 ability] Speed, land 40 [30 base + 10 dark] ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Proficiencies: Racial Natural weapons (claws) Class Simple and martial weapons, light and medium armor, shields Melee Guisarme [2H] Slashing 2d4+6 x3 Reach (10') +10 to hit [5 class + 4 ability + 1 masterwork] Scythe [2H] Slashing/Piercing 2d4+6 x4 Cold iron +10 to hit [5 class + 4 ability + 1 masterwork] Warhammer [1H] Bludgeoning 1d8+5 x3 Silver +10 to hit [5 class + 4 ability + 1 masterwork] Sap [1H] Bludgeoning 1d6+4 x2 Non-lethal + 9 to hit [5 class + 4 ability] ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Feats: HD1 (Ex) Darkstalker HD2 (Ex) Adaptive style HD4 (Ex) Power attack W5 (Ex) Combat reflexes Special abilities: Class, warblade (Ex) Battle clarity [Warblade Lv. 1] (Ex) Weapon aptitude [Warblade Lv. 1] (Ex) Uncanny dodge [Warblade Lv. 2] (Ex) Battle ardor [Warblade Lv. 3] (Ex) Bonus feat (combat reflexes) [Warblade Lv. 5] Race, skulk [Races of Destiny pg. 105] (Ex) + 4 DEX / - 2 WIS / - 4 CHA (Ex) +15 hide / + 8 move silently racial bonus (in light or no armor only) (Su) Innate nondetection Skulks are difficult to detect by divination spells such as clairaudience/clairvoyance, locate creature, detect spells, and items such as a crystal ball. If a divination is attempted upon a skulk, the caster of the divination must succeed on a DC 20 caster level check. (Ex) Peerless camouflage Skulks can move at full speed (and can even run) while hiding, taking no penalties on hide checks due to movement. (Ex) Trackless path The DC of any Survival check to follow the trail of a skulk is increased by 10. (Ex) Skin coloration A skulk's skin is usually dull gray, but an individual can change its color on a whim, from a subdued brown to a lurid red or yellow. Skulks are capable of assuming any “natural” human flesh tone to better blend in. They have pupilless blue eyes, regardless of their skin coloration. Template, dark [Tome of Magic pg. 161] (Ex) Hide in plain sight Use the Hide skill even while being observed (except in natural daylight, the area of a daylight spell, or a similar effect). (Ex) Resistance to cold 10 (Ex) + 8 hide / + 6 move silently untyped bonus (Ex) Darkvision 60' (Ex) Superior low-light vision (Ex) Extraplanar subtype (plane of shadow) Template, draconic [Races of the Dragon pg. 74] (Ex) STR + 2 / CON + 2 / CHA + 2 (Ex) + 2 intimidate / + 2 spot racial bonus (Ex) Natural armor + 1 (Ex) Gain two claw attacks (1d3) (Ex) Darkvision 60' (Ex) Low-light vision (Ex) Dragonblood subtype (Ex) + 4 racial bonus to saves against sleep effects and paralysis ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Skills: Ranks: 56 [4 class + 3 intelligence * 5(+3) levels] Mobility: Hide +35 Skulk DEX [8 ranks + 4 ability + 15 racial + 8 dark] Move silently +28 Skulk DEX [8 ranks + 4 ability + 8 racial + 6 dark + 2 circumstance] Jump* +18 Warblade STR [8 ranks + 4 ability + 2 synergy + 4 speed] Tumble +14 Warblade DEX [8 ranks + 4 ability + 2 synergy] Balance +10 Warblade DEX [4 ranks + 4 ability + 2 synergy] Climb +10 Warblade STR [6 ranks + 4 ability] Swim +10 Warblade STR [6 ranks + 4 ability] Mental: Concentration +12 Warblade CON [8 ranks + 4 ability] Intimidate + 0 Warblade CHA [0 ranks - 2 ability + 2 racial] Spot + 0 --- WIS [0 ranks - 2 ability + 2 racial] All other skills at ability score bonus only Languages: 3 [1 racial + 2 intelligence] Material (3): Common, Dwarven, Elven *Leaping dragon stance provides a static +10-foot enhancement bonus to the result of any jump check. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Maneuvers (6 known, 4 readied*): #1 Lv. 1 Moment of perfect mind [Diamond mind] Use Concentration check in place of Will save. [Imm.] #2 Lv. 1 Sudden leap [Tiger claw] Jump as a swift action. [Swift] #3 Lv. 1 Steel wind [Iron heart] Attack two opponents. [Std.] #4 Lv. 2 Emerald razor [Diamond mind] Turn melee strike into touch attack. [Std.] #5 Lv. 2 Mountain hammer [Stone dragon] Deal +2d6 damage, overcome DR and hardness. [Std.] #6 Lv. 3 Iron heart surge [Iron Heart] Remove effect, gain +2 morale bonus on attacks. [Std.] Stances (2 known, 1 active): Lv. 1 Hunter's sense [Tiger claw] Gain scent. Lv. 3 Leaping dragon stance [Tiger claw] +10' on Jump checks, always considered running for jumps. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Wealth: Head ( -- gp) - lbs. Eyes ( -- gp) - lbs. Throat ( -- gp) - lbs. Torso ( -- gp) - lbs. Body (1,100 gp) 10 lbs. Mithral chain shirt Waist (2,000 gp) 3 lbs. Heavyload belt Shoulders (1,000 gp) .3 lbs. Muleback cords Wrists ( -- gp) - lbs. Hands (1,000 gp) 4 lbs. Gauntlets of ogre power +1 Ring (2,500 gp) - lbs. Ring of sustenance Ring ( -- gp) - lbs. Feet ( -- gp) - lbs. Weapon (2H) ( 309 gp) 12 lbs. Guisarme (masterwork) [reach / trip] Weapon (2H) ( 336 gp) 10 lbs. Scythe (masterwork) [cold iron] Weapon (1H) ( 402 gp) 5 lbs. Warhammer (masterwork) [silver] Weapon (1H) ( 1 gp) 2 lbs. Sap Shield ( -- gp) - lbs. Ranged ( -- gp) - lbs. Ammo ( -- gp) - lbs. Other equipment (carried) Cloth gear padding (masterwork tool) ( 50 gp) 1 lbs. +2 move silently (circumstance) Explorer's outfit ( 10 gp) 10 lbs. Sash, adventurer's ( 20 gp) 3 lbs. Bandoleer, six pouches for items Signal horn ( 1 gp) 2 lbs. Audible at least half a mile away Whistle, sheriff's ( 1 gp) - lbs. Audible only by badgers, dogs, and gnomes Whistle, silent ( 0.9gp) - lbs. Audible only by those with 'keen senses' (animals, elves) Potion of levitate ( *gp) - lbs. Regional item: The Dragon Coast Gold pieces ( 138.3gp) 2.8 lbs. Other equipment (stored) Wagon ( 35 gp) 400 lbs. Bedroll ( 0.1gp) 5 lbs. Backpack, common ( 2 gp) 2 lbs. 60 lbs. capacity, filled with caltrops Backpack, common ( 2 gp) 2 lbs. 60 lbs. capacity, filled with flour Backpack, common ( 2 gp) 2 lbs. 60 lbs. capacity, filled with garlic Backpack, common ( 2 gp) 2 lbs. 60 lbs. capacity, filled with lamp oil flasks Caltrops (5') x30 ( 30 gp) 60 lbs. Stored in a backpack Flour ( 1.2 gp) 60 lbs. Stored in a backpack Garlic x60 ( 6 gp) 60 lbs. Stored in a backpack Lamp oil flask x60 ( 6 gp) 60 lbs. Stored in a backpack Barrel ( 2 gp) 30 lbs. 650 lbs. capacity, filled with marbles Marbles (5') x325 ( 32.5 gp) 650 lbs. Stored in a barrel Rope, hemp (50') x10 ( 10 gp) 100 lbs. Total value (9,000 gp) Equipment, worn and carried 65.1 lbs. Equipment, in vehicle (dragged) 1,433 lbs. Carrying capacity Strength, effective 26 [18 base + 8 muleback cords] Standard Heavyload belt Light load 306 lbs. 918 lbs. Medium load 613 lbs. 1,839 lbs. Heavy load / lift over head 920 lbs. 2,760 lbs. Lift off ground 1,840 lbs. 5,520 lbs. Push or drag 4,600 lbs. 13,800 lbs. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Waador fucked around with this message at 16:46 on Aug 1, 2014 |
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Apr 9, 2014 07:46
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Ivan Cormyr has been as interesting a place to travel as any other hes been to. Having delivered the documents his last employer had asked him to 'find', Ivan felt it was safest to be elsewhere for awhile in case they decided to kill him to cover their tracks. So he went to Cormyr, a kingdom he had never been before. Going to new places always made him feel better, though he's not sure why. Maybe its because everyone feels different from those before, and he doesn't feel so much like the odd one out. Arriving in Wheloon, he takes some R&R. Seeing the notice on the job board however, left him feeling intrigued. Unable to resist the mystery, Ivan followed the postings direction and found himself in the inn. Leaning back on his chair Ivan surveys the group gathered around the priest. He recognizes some of the faces from past experiences and sees some new ones. He smiles thinly, the action mostly hidden by his hooded face. With a half nod to Anciano, he speaks. "I am...Ivan. Mercenary, adventurer, whatever I need to to do to get by. Take what you will from that. I find myself not lacking for gold at the moment and considered the posting about this riddle...interesting. I'd like to know more, so here I am." pre:Ivan Oglaf
Changeling Rogue(Racial) 1/Barbarian 3/Warshaper 1 Expert 4
Chaotic Good
HD: d12
HP: 48/48
AC: 16 (10 + 5 armor + 1 dex)
Fort: +9 (Base 6 + Con 3)
Refl: +4 (Base 3 + Dex 1)
Will: +4 (Base 4 + Wis 0)
Init: +1
BAB: +4
MAB: +7
RAB: +5
Attacks:
+8/+8 claw (1d6+4) +3 bite (1d6+2)
Natural Weapons Reference (Medium)
Slam/Tentacle 1d4
Bite 1d6
Claw/Sting 1d4
Gore/Tail 1d8
Size: Medium
Speed: 40 feet
Str 16 +0 16 (+3)
Dex 12 +0 12 (+1)
Con 15 +1 16 (+3) (+1 level)
Int 12 +0 12 (+1)
Wis 08 +0 08 (-1)
Cha 14 +1 14 (+2)
Proficiencies
Light/Medium Armor
Simple/Martial Weapons
Shields (Not Tower)
Languages:
Common, Elf, Dwarven, Draconic, Goblin, Orc
Racial Traits
+2 bonus vs sleep and charm effects
+2 Bluff, Intimidate, and Sense Motive
Features
Social Intuition (Can always take 10 on Bluff, Intimidate, Diplomacy, Sense motive)
Minor Shape Change (Su)
Immune to stunning
Immune to criticals
+10 base speed
Uncanny Dodge
Rage 1/day
Sneak Attack +1d6
Class Skills:
Balance (Dex), Bluff (Cha), Climb (Str), Craft (Int), Disguise (Cha), Diplomacy (Cha),
Escape Artist (Dex), Handle Animal (Cha), Hide (Dex), Intimidate (Cha), Jump (Str), Knowledge (Int),
Listen (Wis), Move Silently (Dex), Ride (Dex), Sense Motive (Wis), Speak Language (Int),
Survival (Wis), Swim (Str), UMD (Cha)
Skills (68/68) Ranks Stats Bonus Total
Balance 3 1 3 7
Bluff 8 2 5 15
Climb 3 2 3 8
Disguise 8 2 6 16
Diplomacy 7 2 3 12
Escape Artist 6 1 3 10
Intimidate 3 2 5 10
Hide 5 1 3 9
Jump 3 2 3 8
Listen 3 0 3 6
Move Silently 5 1 3 9
Sense Motive 5 0 5 10
Speak Language 5 2 3 10
Survival 3 0 3 6
Swim 3 2 3 8
Feats
1st Skill Focus (Disguise)
2nd Power Attack
4th Improved Natural Attack (Claw)
Gear:
100 gp
Chain Shirt +1 1100gp
(+5 AC, 4 Dex, -1 Armor Penalty)
Amulet of Might Fists +1 6000gp
+1 attack/damage to natural attacks
Hat of Disguise 1800gp
Disguise selfQuornes fucked around with this message at 02:39 on Jul 22, 2014 |
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Apr 9, 2014 16:43
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Ishmael lumbers into the Inn and locates Mr. Dranik. He listens to the man patiently. At the offer of a seat and a drink, Ishmael's synthetic, monotone voice states "No thank you sir I do not possess a digestive system, and I prefer to stand. I am here for the mystery." Ishmael will then proceed to survey the room with his dull, emotionless eyes. Using Detect Evil on everyone present in the room while the others do their things.
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Apr 9, 2014 19:10
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Xerxes of the Breath A pseudodragon flits into the room, flying about the ceiling briefly before finally landing on the table where the group is meeting. The pseudodragon seems fairly tame, and is dressed in a tiny vest, so those who do not recognize him may think he is someone's pet. Or familiar. He sits there waiting for things to happen but not seemingly paying much attention. pre:Xerxes
Pseudodragon 5/ Dragonfire Adept 5
Neutral Good
Strength 6 (-2)
Dexterity 14 (+2)
Constitution 20 (+5)
Intelligence 16 (+3)
Wisdom 10 (+0)
Charisma 10 (+0)
Attacks:
Sting +7 melee (1d3-2 plus poison) Injury, Fortitude DC 18, initial damage sleep for 1 minute,
secondary damage sleep for 1d3 hours. The save DC is Constitution-based and includes a +2 racial bonus.
Bite +7 melee (1)
Total Hit Points: 65
Speed: 15 feet, Fly 60 ft (Good)
Armor Class: 19 = 10 +2 [dexterity] +4 [natural] +2 [size] +1 [armor]
Touch AC: 15
Flat-footed: 17
Initiative modifier: +2 = +2 [dexterity]
Fortitude save: +11 = 4 [base] +5 [constitution] +2 [vest]
Reflex save: +7 = 3 [base] +2 [dexterity] +2 [vest]
Will save: +6 = 4 [base] +2 [vest]
Attack (handheld): +7 = 3 [base] +2 [dexterity] +2 [size]
Attack (unarmed): +7 = 3 [base] +2 [dexterity] +2 [size]
Attack (missile): +7 = 3 [base] +2 [dexterity] +2 [size]
Grapple check: -7 = 3 [base] -2 [strength] -8 [size]
Region: Cormanthor
Languages: Common* and Sylvan*, Elven**, Draconic**, Chondathan** and Orc**, Telepathy`
`Telepathy only in Common and Sylvan
*can communicate telepathically with it so presumably understand it
**understands only
Feats:
Weapon Finesse [free to Pseudodragon]
Dragontouched [free to Dragonfire Adept]
1: Entangling Exhalation
2: Exhaled Barrier
4: Flyby Attack
Skills
Appraise Int 03 = +3 +00
Bluff Cha 00 = +0 +00
Climb Str -2 = -2 +00
Concentration Con 05 = +5 +00
Craft Int 03 = +3 +00
Decipher Script Int 08 = +3 +05
Diplomacy Cha 00 = +0 +00
Hide Dex 14 = +2 +00 +4* [pseudodragon]+8 [tiny]
Intimidate Cha 00 = +0 +00
Knowledge (Arcana) Int 14 = +3 +05 +6 [Draconic Knowledge]
Knowledge (Arc.&Eng.) Int 10 = +3 +01 +6 [Draconic Knowledge]
Knowledge (Dungeon Int 14 = +3 +05 +6 [Draconic Knowledge]
Knowledge (Geography) Int 10 = +3 +01 +6 [Draconic Knowledge]
Knowledge (History) Int 10 = +3 +01 +6 [Draconic Knowledge]
Knowledge (L.Anauroch) Int 10 = +3 +01 +6 [Draconic Knowledge]
Knowledge (L.Cormyr) Int 10 = +3 +01 +6 [Draconic Knowledge]
Knowledge (L.Dalelands) Int 10 = +3 +01 +6 [Draconic Knowledge]
Knowledge (L.Moonsea) Int 10 = +3 +01 +6 [Draconic Knowledge]
Knowledge (L.Dra.Coast) Int 10 = +3 +01 +6 [Draconic Knowledge]
Knowledge (Nature) Int 14 = +3 +05 +6 [Draconic Knowledge]
Knowledge (Nobility) Int 10 = +3 +01 +6 [Draconic Knowledge]
Knowledge (Religion) Int 14 = +3 +05 +6 [Draconic Knowledge]
Knowledge (Planes) Int 14 = +3 +05 +6 [Draconic Knowledge]
Listen Wis 06 = +0 +05 +1 [dragontouched]
Search Int 05 = +3 +01 +1 [dragontouched]
Sense Motive Wis 01 = +0 +01
Speak Language Int = +3 +00
Spellcraft Int 16 = +3 +05 +2 [synergy] +6 [Draconic Knowledge]+2 [w/scrolls]
Spot Wis 06 = +0 +05 +1 [dragontouched]
Survival Wis 05 = +0 +05 +2 [synergy planes/outside/underground]
Use Magic Device Cha 05 = +0 +05 +2 [w/scrolls]
*improves to +8 in forests or overgrown areas
Pseudodragon:
+4 dexterity / +2 constitution / +2 wisdom / -4 strength (already included)
Immunity to sleep and paralysis
Blindsense 60 ft., darkvision 60 ft.
Low-light vision
Spell resistance 19,
Telepathy 60 ft.
+4 racial bonus on Hide checks. *In forests or overgrown areas, this bonus improves to +8
Dragonfire Adept:
Breath Weapon 3d6 (15 ft cone, 30 ft line. DC 17)
Bonus Feat (already included)
Least Invocations (2)
Breath Effect
Scales +2 (not better than natural armor until 18th level)
Dragonkin (+4 competence bonus on Diplomacy checks vs Dragons/dragonblood)
Breath Effect
Invocations
Endure Exposure (Endure Elements + immunity to my breath weapon)
Draconic Knowledge (+6 bonus on all Knowledge and Spellcraft checks)
Breath Effects
Frost Breath (cone only, cold)
Slow Breath (slows for 2 rounds, 1 round with a Fort save)
Items:
Dragon Spirit Cincture (+1 die of breath weapon) 2000
Vest of Resistance +2 4000
Bracers of Armor +1 1000
Wyrmfang Amulet 1350
650 gp remainingRyuujin fucked around with this message at 04:59 on Jul 19, 2014 |
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Apr 10, 2014 03:06
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Anciano Arriving at the inn just as introductions are exchanged, Anciano Manaallin quickly takes stock of the room. Rowdy, but generally peaceful. Pair of Mulhorandi in the corner, best to avoid them, just in case. He seats himself at the table, making an effort to appear nonchalant and casual as he scans the other adventurers. Most of them are new faces, but one hooded man looked vaguely familiar. The nod the other man gives him confirms that they must know each other. "You worked with him that time you had to infiltrate that ring of horse thieves. His name is Ivan, if I recall." Vik's voices hisses in Anciano's mind, reminding him where he'd met the nondescript fellow. He greets him warmly, betraying none of his momentary confusion. "Ah, nice to see you again, Ivan. And pleased to meet you all." He gave Dina and Tunaster an archaic hand sign, an ancient form of greeting between Mystra worshipers. He'd been traveling with the Paladin of Mystra for the past few weeks, as they guarded the same caravan. "Anciano Manaallin, adventurer-at-large. I've recently arrived with a merchant caravan. So, Seeker Dranik, you say there's a mystery involving the new temple to the Hidden One, and I'm curious as to the nature of-" He's interrupted by the arrival of an unfamiliar serpent, wearing a vest, of all things. His familiar answers his question before he can think it. "A pseudodragon! Most likely somebody's familiar. They're intelligent, mind, and nearly as full of themselves as the real article." Thinking a quick thanks to his familiar, Anciano decides not to pay much mind to what he feels would be best taken as a normal occurrence. "As I was saying, I'm rather intrigued by the job you're offering, so, please don't hesitate to furnish us the details." EclecticTastes fucked around with this message at 06:06 on Apr 10, 2014 |
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Apr 10, 2014 04:35
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 Marcon bel TernMarcon bel Tern arrives slightly late, just as Anciano asks his question. Not wanting to interrupt the answer of the priest, Marcon nods to the others around the table he recognizes and takes a seat. The Turmian is a tall man, with broad shoulders and a fair bit of flesh to him, although his clothing and skin does have the slightly saggy appearance that suggests he was heavier still in the not-to-distant past. His wrinkles and the salt in his beard suggest he is somewhere beyond his thirty birthday; how far beyond depending on the harshness of the life he's lived.  They say that geography is destiny, and the Turmish story is an excellent illustration why. Isolated from its neighbors on land by mountains, yet connected widely by sea and centrally located, Turmish is known far and wide as a country of seaborne traders. Many of the trading dynasties have employed marriage to good effect in expanding their networks of contacts and cementing good relations. The bel Tern family is no exception, having intermarried with various trade partners in Calimshan (having learned that family ties were the only ones strong enough to be reliable were the Calishites were concerned) enough times over the years that the family has noticeably darker skin and hair than the average Turmian. As the sixth child (fourth son) of the third child of the head of the bel Tern clan, the family expectations for Marcon were pretty minimal: learn some kind of trade and don't do anything too embarrassing. As a youngster, Marcon was fascinated by the various magical gadgetry that filled the family mansion. He and his parents were not important enough to live there, but on more than one family occasion when it came time to depart the young boy was finally tracked down in some far corner, carefully turning a magic lantern on and off or stuck halfway down the lifting shaft that delivered food from the kitchen to the dining room. Marcon apprenticed with a respected artificer and managed to complete his apprenticeship in only a few years more than average. While the young bel Tern had the right interest and a fair amount of aptitude for the trade, he was rather lacking in ambition, never putting in the long hours expected of him by his master. "Life's too short to work all the time," Marcon would say to his friends at the pub (all of whom happened to have a fair bit of family money themselves, coincidentally enough) to a round of nods and raised mugs. The lovely Velona Metri, Marcon's friend since childhood, was another distraction. Engaged to be married upon completion of Marcon's apprenticeship, the couple felt no compunction about spending some quality time together beforehand. When he at last made journeyman, the wedding took place quickly thereafter. Marcon and Velona's first child, a girl, was born six months later, a minor detail the families were happy to overlook, remembering their own youth fondly. Such was life in the years of peace following the Time of Troubles. Sure, there was that nasty business with the sahuagin in 1369, but Marcon's position as an appraiser of magical goods in the family trade office kept him far from danger. Then in 1372 a plague swept over Alaghôn, carried aboard a ship or boiling up out of the sewers or unleashed by cultists or simply the whim of Talona. It hit hard among the tight-knit merchant families. Even the great wealth of a family like the bel Terns is not enough to secure magical healing for more than the most vital members when half the city takes ill ad Marcon and his wife and three children were forced to fend for themselves. Marcon and Velona cared for the children devotedly until their own strength gave out. When Marcon's fever broke at last, he found himself under the care of his nearly unrecognizable sister, one of the first to fall ill and now stripped of the healthy padding of flesh earned over a life of children and plenty. One look at her face was enough to convey the terrible news. Three weeks later, still weak, Marcon was aboard a ship, house sold at a loss and a collection of equipment purchased from the family for a song in hand. In his head, Marcon understood that the family couldn't save everyone, but the heart ever quails in the face of such cold, cold comfort. The family was sad to see him go, but as Salazar, head of the family, said with a sigh when he heard that his great-nephew was departing, "Some hurts can't be faced head on. Ilmater's blessing upon him." Marcon's wanders around the Sea of Fallen Stars have lasted a few years and have involved a bit of this and that and the other, all of it legal (to the best of his knowledge, at least). To the no-longer-young bel Tern's surprise, they've proved fairly lucrative and educational, as well. When Marcon arrived in Wheloon and saw the note about a peculiar riddle and realized that the meeting regarding it was the next day, he shrugged and decided to show up after a quick conference with his recently created homunculus assistant Tarn. pre:Human Artificer 5
Alignment: Lawful Good
Size: Medium Speed: 30'
STR: 14 DEX: 16 CON: 12 INT: 14 WIS: 10 CHA: 14
HP: 29/29 AC:19 (T:13, FF:16) F: +2 R: +4 W: +4
Initiative: +3 BAB: +3 AoO:
Misc:
+1 DEX from level up
+2 AC vs. ranged
Attacks
Attack To Hit Damage Crit Range Misc
Bonebow arrow +8 1d10+4 Piercing 20/x3 140'
Bonebow staff +6 1d6+2 Bludgeon 20/x2
Skills: 35/35 21/21 total ranks IF rank abl misc
Concentration Con 9 5 3 1
Craft (Pottery) Int 3 1 0 2
Craft (Sculpting) Int 3 1 0 2
Craft (Metalworking) Int 3 1 0 2
Craft (Weaponsmithing) Int 3 1 0 2
Craft (Alchemy) Int 3 1 0 2
Craft (Bowmaking) Int 3 1 0 2
Craft (Armorsmithing) Int 3 1 0 2
Decipher Script Int 3 5 0 2
Disable Device Int 3 1 0 2
Knowledge (Arcana) Int 10 5 3 2
Knowledge (Arch) Int 7 1 4 2
Open Lock Dex 4 1 0 3
Search Int 7 0 5 2 +2 synergy for secret doors/compartments
Spellcraft Int 12 5 3 2 +2 synergy, +2 syn decipher scrolls
Use Magic Device Cha 17 5 3 2 +7 (IF), +4 synergy w/ scrolls
Special by Level
1: Human Bonus Feat - Mercantile Background
1: Feat - Point Blank Shot
1: Artificer Bonus Feat - Scribe Scroll
1: Artificer knowledge
1: Artisan bonus
1: Disable trap
1: Item creation
2: Feat - Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Bonebow)
2: Artificer Bonus Feat - Brew Potion
3: Artificer Bonus Feat - Craft Wondrous Item
4: Feat - Item Familiar
(Invest life energy, skill ranks, spell slots all active)
4: Artificer Bonus Feat - Attune Magic Weapon
4: Craft homunculus
5: Artificer Bonus Feat - Craft Magic Arms and Armor
5: Retain essence
Spells:
Level 1 2 3
Per Day 5 4 1*
DC 13 14 15
* One spell slot from this level is invested in Item Familiar.
Spell List:
1: Complete Spell List. Quick reference:
Ablative Armor 1 min, Lesser Armor Enhancement 1 min 10gp, Energy Alteration 50 gp,
Enhancement Alteration, Magic Vestment, Magic Weapon, Repair Light Damage, Resistance Item,
Shield of Faith, Skill Enhancement, Spell Storing Item 1 min CL*Spell Level XP,
Personal Weapon Augmentation 1 min
2: Complete Spell List Quick reference:
Align Weapon, Armor Enhancement 1 min 50 gp, Bear's Endurance, Bull's Strength, Cat's Grace,
Chill/Heat Metal, Lesser Construct Essence, Eagle's Splendor, Fox's Cunning,
Inflict Moderate Damage, Lucky Blade 1 min, Lesser Natural Weapon Augmentation 1 min 20 gp,
Owl's Wisdom, Reinforce Construct, Repair Moderate Damage, Swift Ready, Toughen Construct,
Unseen Crafter, Lesser Weapon Augmentation 1 min 20 gp
3: Complete Spell List. Quick reference:
Adamantine Weapon 1 min, Greater Armor Enhancement 1 min 100 gp, Blast Rod 1 min,
Construct Energy Ward, Lesser Humanoid Essence, Inflict Serious Damage,
Lucky Cape 1 min, Greater Magic Weapon, Repair Serious Damage, Stone Construct 250 gp
Languages:
Turmic, Chondatan, Chessentan
Equipment details hereBouquet fucked around with this message at 22:16 on Aug 17, 2014 |
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Apr 10, 2014 05:02
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pre:Dina Caloma
Half Celestial "Aasimar" Marshal 1 // Paladin 5
Lawful Good
Region: Waterdeep
Strength 22 (+6)
Dexterity 12 (+1)
Constitution 16 (+3)
Intelligence 10 (+0)
Wisdom 15 (+2)
Charisma 20 (+5)
Total Hit Points: 45
Speed: 20 feet [armor]
Armor Class: 23 = 10 +8 [full plate] +3 [buckler] +1 [dexterity] +1 [natural]
Touch AC: 14
Flat-footed: 22
Initiative modifier: +1 = +1 [dexterity]
Fortitude save: +12 = 4 [base] +3 [constitution] +5 [paladin charisma]
Reflex save: +7 = 1 [base] +1 [dexterity] +5 [paladin charisma]
Will save: +10 = 3 [base] +2 [wisdom] +5 [paladin charisma]
Attack (handheld): +11 = 5 [base] +6 [strength]
Attack (unarmed): +11 = 5 [base] +6 [strength]
Attack (missile): +5 = 5 [base] +1 [dexterity]
Grapple check: +11 = 5 [base] +6 [strength]
Languages: Common Chondathan
Feats:
Regional: Mercantile Background
Human: Improved Buckler Defense
Marshal Bonus: Skill Focus (Diplomacy)
1: Shield Specialization (Buckler)
2: Shield Ward
4: Battle Blessing
Skills
Diplomacy Cha 19 = +6 +8 +2 [synergy] +3 [skill focus]
Knowledge (Arcana) Int 4 = +0 +1
Knowledge (Nobility) Int 5 = +0 +5
Knowledge (Religion) Int 7 = +0 +7
Spellcraft Int 4 = +0 +4
*ACP: -5 = -5 [armor]
First-level Paladin spells: 2 (0+2) per day
Half-Celestial (Wingless) Template:
* +4 strength, +2 dexterity, +4 constitution, +2 intelligence, +4 wisdom, +4 charisma
* Outsider (native)
* Darkvision to 60 feet
* +1 Natural Armor
* Spells
3x/day: Protection from Evil
1x/day: Aid, Detect evil, Cure serious wounds, neutralize poison
* Smite evil
* Spell resistance 10+HD (maximum 35)
* Damage reduction 5/Magic
* Acid, cold, electricity resistance 10
* +4 on saves vs. poison
Marshal:
* Minor Aura: Motivate Dexterity (+Cha to Dex checks, Dex-based skill checks, and initiative checks)
Charging Smite, Mystic Fire Knight variants Paladin:
Aura of Good
Detect Evil
Smite Evil (2x/day; add +3 to melee attack roll, paladin levels to damage)
Charging Smite (+2 damage per paladin level on charging smite, smite not expended if misses)
For 1 enemy, enemy makes DC 10+pal level+cha+spell level Concentration check or
fails spell/spell completion/spell trigger
Divine Grace (level 2)
Lay on Hands (level 2)
Aura of Courage (level 3)
Divine Health (level 3)
Code of Conduct / Association
Improved Spellcasting: Caster level is 1/2 level +2, bonus spells
High charisma gains bonus spells daily
Items
Scroll of Touch of Restoration Regional
Scroll of Zone of Truth Regional
Keen Falchion +1 6281.25 (Mercantile Background)
Masterwork Full Plate 1237.5 (Mercantile Background)
Buckler +1 873.75 (Mercantile Background)
Healing Belt 562.50 (Mercantile Background)
Potion Belt 1
Cold Iron Spiked Gauntlet 10
Backpack 2
Flint and Steel 1
Grappling Hook 1
Hemp Rope, 100' 2
Manacles 15
Crowbar 2
Wooden Holy Symbol 1
Waterskin 1
Tiny Inside Pocket (DC 25) 4
Sling w/ 10 bullets 0.1
2.15 gp remainingDina arrives at the table, having had to make a few purchases in town along the way. She nodded at Marcon as he arrived, having had dealings with him in the past. Her gaze wandered slowly over the table, looking over the others. She knew Anciano of course, but the others were relative strangers. "I'm Dina, paladin of Mystra, and am always willing to listen to a fellow follower of Mystra. What troubles you?" Detect Evil on Tunaster and the other party members Piell fucked around with this message at 08:54 on Jul 12, 2014 |
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Apr 10, 2014 05:38
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Date: 23 Marpenoth(basically October) 1374 DR Though somewhat thrown off by Barkley's odd appearance, Tunaster catches himself staring and answers Barkley's question. "Of course, as it would hardly be a job if I didn't have some form of recompense in it for you. That said, as you remarked I should likely explain my request and the circumstances leading up to it." Taking a sip from his goblet and a deep breath, he begins. "I wander the lands, as many clerics of Mystra do, looking for old magic. In my life I've visited tombs, ruins, even skirted the edge of a lich's domain. Still, none of those have ever given me as much of a surprise as what I saw a tenday ago - that newly built temple of Mystra, just north of here on an old citadel. "Seems normal enough, no? But this is the very first temple to her in Cormyr, making it huge news! And yet I, a long-time cleric of Mystra, and one who keeps in yearly contact with the organization, had heard nothing of it being here. I've also never heard of this 'Lady Arthas' who supposedly ordered its construction, and sited it there. "Well as you could imagine, I was amazed by this and decided to enter, looking for answers. I initially made my way into the outer courtyard, but was rebuffed from entering the inner areas; I was told to wait for Lady Arthas. They had me wait for about an hour, then a man appeared, someone named Fembrys, who asked me to accompany him to the middle courtyard. He was dressed as I was, in the garb of clerics of Mystra, but something about him just didn't feel right. I'm still not sure exactly what it was, but something made me... run. "And they chased me! Why would they do that? Someone on the temple walls even fired arrows at me! But, as you can see, I escaped. That said, what in the Nine Hells is going on in there? I need to find out or, failing that, go to the nearest legitimate temple of Mystra and asked for aid. But given that is the Tower of Mystery in Sembia, I put a request out instead. And now you're here. I wish to hire you to investigate what is going on in there and, if there is a profanity to Mystra going on within, stamp out the blasphemers." Finishing his story, Tulaster gives a wry grin. "And before you ask, I've already spoken to Constal Tholl of the Purple Dragons regarding this. He said they'd already investigated the temple and found nothing amiss. I asked a few basic questions about their discoveries, and it seemed like they'd only done a cursory check of the place after hearing about strange lights and noises. He seemed reluctant to look deeper into the matter, though I'm fairly sure that had much more to do with Lord Redbeard's pleasure at the business and taxes the temple brings in rather than any understanding of what might be going on within. "Now, for payment I can offer 3000 gold for this task, 500 payable up front. I myself will be travelling to the Tower of Mystery to talk with my superiors regarding this matter, and see if I can get some to return with me. Should you discover anything, I should be able to get magical transportation back from there, though it may take a tenday on the off chance there's none available. I'm rather anxious to get moving, but if you have any questions feel free to ask." Dina, Ishmael: Other than one or two figures in the raucous crowd filling the room, you don't detect anyone evil. Said figures seem to be enjoying themselves just as much as everyone else and seem to be paying you no attention. Lord Koth fucked around with this message at 05:59 on Apr 10, 2014 |
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Apr 10, 2014 05:40
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Marcon bel Tern "Seeker, I am Marcon bel Tern, my apologies for the late arrival. I am willing to assisting you, but am curious if you have any means at your disposal for us to contact you in the event of a discovery? I have worked with a number of these individuals in the past, and I'm not sure any of our talents, which are, of course, most impressive, extend easily in the direction of long-distance communication."
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Apr 10, 2014 06:09
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Barkley Listening attentively to the story of their prospective employer, Barkley simultaneously does a little mental math: specifically, paladin (1), Purple Dragon investigation concluded (1), and local lord with vested interest (1). He chooses his words carefully before responding, but eventually states, "I'd like to understand exactly what you intend for us to do, when you say 'stamp out the blasphemers'. I'm going to be honest, I am really not intimately familiar with the laws of Cormyr, but I do expect that neither you nor the rest of us would be in the right to mete out justice on behalf of your faith if the local lord as well as the Purple Dragons have investigated and concluded that the temple is doing nothing wrong." He shrugs somewhat apologetically, suggesting, "I am certainly comfortable going to the temple in your stead and taking a look around, perhaps under false pretenses, or even under cover of darkness. Retrieving information that answers your questions about why they might have attacked you, and what is going on within their walls, is readily achievable. Unless it is done in self-defense, or I catch them in the midst of some foul and inexcusably dark ritual, though, I would be surprised if this scenario resulted in the stamping out of anyone." He looked to the others at the table, hoping one of them might have stronger knowledge of the local laws and customs of the region, inquiring, "That sort of thing is the job of the Purple Dragons, or other implements of local authority, is it not?" A part of him really didn't like this proposition: their employer was essentially asking them to go into the temple and execute a kill order if anything was amiss. Moreover, he wasn't a member of the community, and intended to disappear tonight to some far off place in a different country. Assuming they did as he asked, everyone sitting at this table except him would be left holding the bag when the body count began to pile up. Waador fucked around with this message at 07:06 on Apr 10, 2014 |
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Apr 10, 2014 06:56
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Ivan Sounds like a piece of cake to Ivan. Infiltration poses no problem to him. There's only one thing he wants to ask. "Is that sum for each, or split amongst the party?" He finds it amusing that the shadiest looking guy there besides himself is the one asking about the legality of the request.
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Apr 10, 2014 19:46
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Looking around at the group and replying to them in turn, Tunaster shrugs and replies to Marcon first. "Well, I should be back in no later than a tenday, and likely within about five or so. I'm not viewing it as extremely critical to be aware of your every move, as I can find out what's been going on when I return, if I haven't obtained a better idea from my superiors by then." Sighing at Barkley's question, he tries and calm his fears. "I'm asking you to investigate the temple and shut them down should they be faking it, not just blindly charge in a kill them all. Hells, there's a chance I'm wrong, in which case this will turn out to simply involve some snooping around with a payout at the end. But, if I'm right, what do you think the chances of a group impersonating a temple of the Mistress of Magic means well in the long run? And no it's not just some simple group of charlatans, as significant magic was involved in the temple's construction, considering its size and how fast it was built. And while Lord Redbeard may be not be looking particularly closely at them while they bring in a decent amount of money, he'd want an evil cult on his doorstep even less." Finally turning to Ivan, he had to grin. "I hardly have the personal funds, nor the authority to access temple coffers, to cover paying tens of thousands of gold for this task. No, that 3000 is for the six of you to share. That said, bringing incontrovertible proof of duplicity to the attention of Lord Redbeard might earn you a reward from him as well, despite his intransigence to give it a close look currently."
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Apr 10, 2014 22:34
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Barkley Seemingly satisfied at the cleric's explanation, he shrugs in apology for having questioned Tunaster's morals to begin with, explaining, "Fair enough, you can count me in for sorting out the fact from the fiction of the temple, in that case." He adds, belatedly, "You'll forgive my line of inquiry, I hope. It's just that throwing around words like 'stamp out the blasphemers', along with an explanation that you will be fleeing the country tonight, paints a bit of a different mental picture about how this engagement is expected to go."
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Apr 10, 2014 23:43
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Ishmael, having listened intently so far, finally speaks up. "Hopefully there will be no reason to end any lives. I will complete this task. All corruption will be exposed. What did this 'Fembrys' look like? Age? Race? Distinguishing features?"
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Apr 11, 2014 01:20
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Xerxes of the Breath The tiny pseudodragon bobs its head, then begins to apparently drywash its face. It stops at one moment and seems to look Tunaster in the eye briefly, where the man hears a voice in his head. <I Xerxes will accept this task.> The matter seemed simple enough. And though the payout was not large neither was the task, as far as he could tell. And every little bit helps for building his eventual hoard. Ryuujin fucked around with this message at 04:47 on Jul 19, 2014 |
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Apr 11, 2014 04:06
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Anciano "I'm not overly concerned with the payment, Seeker, your offer should cover expenses, and that's plenty. More important to me is that this sounds like quite an interesting situation, and I'll not miss out. Consider me recruited to the cause." Anciano looks around the table, trying to judge the specializations of those at the table. He'd already begun to form plans in his mind, his thoughts rapidly evaluating different approaches. "It appears that we've likely enough force to defend ourselves if the priests are as unfriendly as claimed, but we've also, unless my observations are very much mistaken, enough subtlety between us to infiltrate the church without needing to worry about violence. I recommend we take a moment after this meeting adjourns to discuss possible methods of getting inside. Seeker Dranik, you didn't happen to take note of any alternate entrances aside from the front door, did you? Large windows, even those high off the ground, do count, I've all the tools necessary for us to climb inside, if need be."
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Apr 11, 2014 11:49
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Barkley At the mention of collective infiltration, he shakes his head, suggesting, "One or two, maybe even three of us, infiltration could work. A group of seven, one of whom is clad head-to-toe in full plate, and the other who is literally made of what appears to be five hundred pounds of steel, though?" He laughs at that point, imagining the possibilities before stating, "we'd have swords drawn on us in less than ten minutes." Tapping his fingers on the table lightly while he considers tactical scenarios himself, after a few moments of silence he continues, "If we want to perform reconnaissance by entering through a window or over a wall, it should be limited to those capable of flying, climbing, and either literally or figuratively becoming invisible. By my count that's half of us at best." Shrugging, he continued, "The other alternative is a less...pleasant mode of ingress. Any large building, particularly one that appears to be situated close to a river as large as the Wyvernflow, likely has privy chutes and sluices that empty into the waterway. Those routes are unlikely to be guarded, and any sound we make getting in should be drowned out by the flow of the river. It would probably be fairly disgusting, but would certainly be an effective way in to the more secure areas." Imagining one other possibility, he laughs a bit, suggesting, "We could also just disguise someone as Tunaster, perhaps borrowing his clothes to complete the outfit, and see what they do when he returns to the temple gates with a paladin of Mystra and an apparent iron golem at his side." Nodding to the others, he suggests, "the rest of us, of course, could be positioned nearby to lend aid if and when things went sour. It would certainly be a simple method to determine whether they mean any ill will to followers of Mystra, though it would have the drawback of encouraging them to bring their more powerful spellcasters and other defenses to bear." Not particularly committed to any one path, he inquired, "That's my take, anyway. Thoughts?"
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Apr 11, 2014 19:11
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Dina "The plan seems simple enough. I think it unlikely that they have enough forces at the ready to want to start an obvious battle against non-aggressors, even if are imposters. Tunaster, did you see any other wanderers or villagers while you were there? If so, we should ask around town before we leave, and see if any of the townsfolk noticed anything off."
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Apr 11, 2014 20:57
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About to answer Ishmael, Tunaster started for a moment about hearing a voice in his head, before refocusing on the new questions. "Well, he's Chondathan, but rather average. The best I could describe him is, dour. He didn't talk much, and doesn't seem to deal with the outer area much. "As for the layout... well, it is built atop a ruined citadel so it's reasonably secure. It's built directly adjoining a bluff behind it, so there's no real way to get behind it. Aside from the entrance, it has around, oh, 20-25' curtain walls with battlements around it all the way up the the bluff. As there are guards patrolling those battlements there's likely another entrance somewhere up there, but I have no idea where it leads. As for an entrance on the water, all I can say is there might be one? I'm hardly a structural engineer, so I don't know where such a thing would be along the river, what kind of sluice gate it might or might not have, or even if it would be large enough for people to pass through, but I won't deny it might exist." Smiling at Dina's question, he replies to that one last. "It's brand new, the first of its kind in Cormyr, and on a significant trade route. Though the interior of the temple seems off-limits to casual visitors, the outer courtyard gets a pretty steady stream of visitors. I saw people in there to offer a prayer as well as those who seemed to simply be looking around. As for profession, everything from townsfolk to farmers to wizard's apprentices to obvious adventurers."
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Apr 11, 2014 21:46
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Ivan "Seems simple enough for to me. Luckily for you, and the group, infiltration is a speciality of mine. Though I don't plan to be bait. It would be better for me to sneak in disguised as one of their priests or whatever they call them."
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Apr 12, 2014 05:18
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Barkley Thinking about that option, he suggests, "It seems perfectly reasonable to send in someone specifically trained in the realm of infiltration. For that to work, though, we'll need to abduct someone first, won't we?"
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Apr 12, 2014 19:23
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Xerxes of the Breath The tiny pseudodragon curls up, seeming like it is going to sleep, while the others talk. That said his head comes up and looks at the various speakers in turn. Occassionally he tilts his head this way or that as if he is listening to what is said, and may even understand. The head rests upon a foreclaw, the eyes half lidded, and then in turn the others hear a voice in their head. Assuming they are not somehow blocked from such mental communication. <There may be other entrances. I, Xerxes, may be able to determine where they would be when I get a look at the temple. I may be able to infiltrate as well, without a disguise.> Ryuujin fucked around with this message at 04:47 on Jul 19, 2014 |
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Apr 13, 2014 00:46
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Barkley He concurs, "Aerial surveillance of the temple could tell us a fair deal, and all the better if done by something difficult to distinguish from a hawk or owl at a few hundred paces, in the middle of the evening." Winking at Xerxes, he continues, "no offense intended, of course, master dragon." In truth, Barkley was rather fond of the egregiously proud mini-dragon, having traveled with him once or twice in the past in recent years. And the idea was sound. "Since they appear to have shot at Tunaster here, if you could surreptitiously discern the number of guards along their walls, and a few possible points of entry, it would be highly valuable information. It also sounds like they have both an outer and an inner courtyard, but presumably the latter is still open-air, which might enable you to get us some idea of what lies within that area as well. Once we are armed with that information, as well as anything else you might be able to find out in a few quick fly-overs without drawing attention to yourself, we can perhaps form a more comprehensive plan for the group as a whole." Looking at the dragon, he inquired, "How long do you think it would take you to get to the area, fly over it a few times, and come back with some reconnaissance? Ten, maybe twenty minutes? If so that'd be magical."
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Apr 13, 2014 04:15
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Marcon bel Tern "Thank you, Seeker, I think that is all of our questions for now, if you'd like to leave us to our scheming and be on your way." He hunches down over the table, nodding at Xerxes. "Yes, a quick overview would be most appreciated, my friend."
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Apr 14, 2014 07:14
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Ivan "Yes, sight from the air might provide valuable insight. In the mean time, I can enter with the crowd and take the appearance of one of the guards or acolytes there, and scout the inside."
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Apr 14, 2014 23:27
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Anciano "Not to sound negative, but if you were spotted during this scouting mission, it's quite possible you could end up riddled with crossbow bolts. I believe a multi-faceted approach has the greatest chance of success. Ivan could disguise himself as one of the guards while Dina and I pose as unsuspecting supplicants." Anciano makes a gesture at Dina to cut off any protest. "Worry not, you needn't transgress against your code by lying, simply allow me to do most of the talking. Xerxes can fly overhead to monitor the situation outside, while Barkley sneaks in through an alternate entrance. Hopefully the staff will be more concerned with Dina and me, giving Barkley a little more breathing room. As for Marcon and Ishmael, they should wait out in the courtyard and act like simple visitors just in case those of us on the inside run into trouble, at which point we'll signal for you. How does that plan sound?"
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Apr 15, 2014 03:46
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Ishmael The automaton listens intently to Anciano. "That plan is sufficient."
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Apr 15, 2014 03:59
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Barkley 'Finally, some wisdom.', he thinks to himself. Popping back into the conversation, he agrees with Anciano, suggesting, "I do agree with leveraging our strengths, and a plan of assault with multiple prongs to it does appear to be the right course in this case. I'm perfectly happy to skulk around by myself," he says with a smirk, continuing, "or alternatively, shadow Ivan to interdict if his subterfuge is detected, at his preference. Either way, if you folks can monitor the situation from close by, and the great Xerxes can keep an eye out for telltale warning signs that not all is going well inside the keep, that should work just fine." He motions to his signal horn, suggesting, "I can probably draw your attention with this if we end up forced to engage on the inside." Musing, he thinks, "During that time you'll probably be able to get a better sense of the clerics by actually interacting with them in the courtyard as well, assuming they happen to still be awake and lively in the evening." Standing up, he suggests, "Anyway, if we're about to head out, let me go grab a few of my things from upstairs." With that he excuses himself for the span of a few minutes, heading up the stairs to the guest rooms of the inn. In short order he returns, changed from his casual evening clothes into a decidedly grimmer-looking outfit, complete with a belt accentuated with what appears to be three iron skulls, a pair of serrated gauntlets and a cloak also sporting a skull motif, a six-foot-long polearm strapped to his back, and what is decidedly the most vicious-looking war scythe anyone has ever seen hanging from his belt. Winking at the group before donning the face mask that completes the outfit, he suggests, "Should we split up that five hundred gold from dear Tunaster before we leave?" pre:Swift action while upstairs to switch to Hunter's Sense stance, gaining scent. While downstairs, before we leave, using scent to familiarize myself with the scents of the party members. Particularly Ivan, given that otherwise I won't be able to distinguish him from a guard if we get separated.
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Apr 15, 2014 04:23
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Ishmael "If that is everything for the moment, I have business to attend to in town before we do anything." Ishmael says. "Any of you are welcome to join me." Ishmael is going to go check out the grove and Harvest Hall in search of a wand of CLW, just so we have one if we really need some healing. If there isn't one there, I guess maybe the temple has one I can pick up before things start to turn sour. El Fappo fucked around with this message at 06:37 on Apr 15, 2014 |
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Apr 15, 2014 05:21
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Xerxes of the Breath Xerxes is not sure if he will still be scouting beforehand or just keeping a lookout from above. So he mentally prods the others with a question. <Am I scouting ahead first before we head out? Or just flying above once we begin?> Ryuujin fucked around with this message at 04:48 on Jul 19, 2014 |
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Apr 15, 2014 05:29
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Barkley He suggests, "I think you should scout it overhead beforehand and relay what information might be relevant to all of us. Once that is done, transition into the second role of overwatch?"
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Apr 15, 2014 05:44
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"Well then, I suppose I'll let you get to work. I've a long journey ahead of me, but hopefully you'll know more by the time I return." With a wave, Tunaster leaves the inn to find a group heading east. As your deliberations conclude, the party breaks up for the day, with most of the party going with Ishmael to ask around Harvest Hall and see if they have any wands for sale while Ivan jaunts off to the temple to do some preliminary scouting with Xerxes far overhead as scout and spotter. Harvest Hall Walking up to the surprisingly modest, considering it's the town's primary worship site, temple to Chauntea, the first thing you note is that it's quite busy, with people going in or out rather frequently, making donations or just saying a quick prayer. Still, with a quick word they're directed inside to see the head priestess, a suprisingly, considering her position, young woman who quickly introduces herself as Katriana Donohar. At Ishmael's request she taps her chin, thinking for a moment. "Hmm, I'm fairly sure I've seen a few in the storeroom. Give me a moment and I'll go check." At that she quickly walks into the back. A few minutes later, she reappears with a small box in hand and holds it out to him. "I thought so. Standard pricing, and would you be needing anything else? We do have a pretty good selection of scrolls if you're looking, though we leave potion brewing to Hanno." At the Temple of Mystra Walking, or flying, out of town, Ivan takes quick moment to duck behind a tree before reappearing as a pretty young lass, deciding to use the name Bessy. Approaching the temple, they get their first look at the rather impressive sight.  Picture is incorrect, as most of that covered roof should not be there. The outer courtyard, which is directly below that, is open to the sky. As Ivan walks up to the gate, between the two of them they note the outer defenses: One guard inside the courtyard near the entranceway, with an additional two patrolling the walkway on top of the walls. For reference, here's the outer courtyard. The circles are statues, the four rectangles are altars with donation trays.  Entering the courtyard with a flirtatious wave to the guard at the gate, Bessy casually strolls around the courtyard, taking note of the people within. Wandering around are three obvious travelers making donations, as well as a priest of Mystra standing near the double doors and smiling while keeping track of the proceedings. Approaching him, he turns on the charm and flirts with the priest, quickly learning that his name is Shan Thar. Other than that, Bessy finds herself rebuffed gently, getting the impression that this is hardly the first time someone has hit on the new, exotic priests. He does, however, offer temple services at a competitive rate however, in case she needs something like Remove Disease. Grumbling slightly, Bessy decides to try the other person who actually works there. Talking with the guard Bessy learns that his name is Terinus and, while he's not willing to leave his post, the flattery does get a decent amount of information. Relevant Information: "They've been a right noble sort here, willing to hire those willing to serve the Goddess regardless of past misdeeds." "Do I work inside? No, though I hope to one day. Those of us on the walls only guard the outside, while there's a separate detachment inside. They all used to work outside, but they're the ones who've expressed the most piety." "What are our hours? Well, we open shortly after dawn, and stay open to the general public until dusk. We also have a nightly service from shortly after sunset to about an hour before midnight. The gates are closed after that." "Are petitioners allowed past the doors? Well, yes, with stipulations. You'd have to ask Shan Thar for details, but those wanting to earn Mystra's Sacred Trust, and bring a 25g donation, are allowed as a group every day." Keeping this in mind, Bessy decides to ask about said Trust with Shan Thar. Though he looks at her dubiously for a moment, he answers anyways. "If you are truly interested in becoming part of the temple, and perhaps earning Mystra's Sacred Trust, we can arrange for you to attend special three-day services that occur in the middle temple. We require a donation of 25 gp if you're interested in trying the service. Yes, expensive, but not too much for those truly interested in expanding their knowledge of the goddess of the Weave, no?" Thanking him for the information and stating that she'll have to think it over, Bessy leaves in order to discuss information with the rest of the party. Lord Koth fucked around with this message at 04:59 on Apr 23, 2014 |
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Apr 18, 2014 06:41
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Ishmael "Thank you. That is all I require." Ishmael drones. He pays the nice lady for the nice wand, tucks it in his haversack, and prepares to leave. That's really all I needed. When everyone is all done here, Ishmael is ready to go check out the temple.
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Apr 18, 2014 08:11
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Ivan After everyone meets back up at the inn Taking a seat, Ivan shares with the group what he found. "Definitely seems fishy to me. There's an outer guard that mans the walls and live onsite, and then there's an inner guard who never leave the temple. They're accepting anyone as guards, regardless of crimes. Open dawn to dusk, and they have a midnight service from sunset to an hour before midnight. I'll be heading back tonight to hear it. I couldn't enter the temple proper, but they allow groups to enter, at 25gp a head, provided we make arrangements first."
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Apr 18, 2014 16:06
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Anciano "Hm, good work Ivan. The temple is all but assuredly heretical, if not outright blasphemous. This 'Sacred Trust' is no Mystran tradition I'm familiar with, and it strikes me more as the scheming of a cult to bilk unsuspecting worshipers of their gold, or worse. A great variety of sinister activities can be undertaken in the span of three days. I move that we enact our plan with all haste. Speaking of which, Barkley, I picked up a couple items from my room that may be useful to your infiltration efforts." Anciano places three items on the table for the Skulk. The first is a crowbar, Anciano doesn't bother explaining the obvious, that it can be used to force open locked doors more easily. The second is a two-foot tube with glass apertures at odd angles on either end, "This is a hand periscope, it's something of a specialty item, not found in many shops. You can use it to peer around corners while maintaining even greater concealment. With your skills, it should likely be literally impossible for you to be noticed while using it." The last item is a long spool of silk rope with a grappling hook at the end. The hook is mithral and shaped like a dragon's claw. "This grappling hook is enchanted, speak the command word and it will actively seek a location on which to set itself. Combined with its mithral construction and the light weight of silk rope, the hook is trivially easy to set, and should help you bypass the outer wall from outside, if need be." When Anciano shares the command word with the others, Xerxes and Ivan recognize it as the Draconic word for "climb". (Letting Barkley borrow my crowbar and its +2 to forcing doors, my hand periscope and its ability to spy around corners with a +7 to Hide checks to keep it unnoticed, and my Grasping Hook and silk rope with its cumulative +8 to Use Rope checks to set it and DC of only 10+1/20 feet thrown. The +2 Use Rope bonus from silk rope and the +6 bonus to set from Grasping Hook stack, the former is Circumstance and the latter is Competence.)
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Apr 18, 2014 17:17
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Barkley He responds to Anciano with an appreciative smile, explaining, "Now that's teamwork. I'll put these to use if it comes up, and you have my thanks." In so doing, he collects the borrowed gear, looping a leather latch around the crowbar in order to attach it to his belt, and then carefully securing the spyglass as well as the grappling hook to his bandoleer. Taking a few moments to consider the reconnaissance provided by both Xerxes and Ivan, he suggests, "It sounds like it will be a simple enough matter for me to scale the outer wall under the cover of darkness. Hopefully there will be a way to the inner areas from the battlements, but that might not be the case if they maintain an entirely separate detachment of guards for the interior. At the very least, there won't be a patrol route I can shadow. This might require me to play a waiting game, instead: every door ends up opened eventually, and it will be simple enough to slip through to the interior if I bide my time."
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Apr 18, 2014 23:32
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Ishmael "I assume Mystra is a good deity. How about I just go in through the front, pay the fee to get in, and question any unsavory characters posing as clergy? Subtlety isn't really one of my strong suits, but I believe Ilmater will guide my hand."
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Apr 19, 2014 04:35
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Anciano Anciano cocks an eyebrow. "I'll admit to a certain lack of familiarity with Ilmater, but isn't his primary domain suffering? As noble as suffering for a cause might be, I'd say it would be a waste for you to do so this day. I doubt there will be any problem if you just wait with Marcon in the courtyard, ready to leap into action once we've rooted out the source of this corruption. Or, of course, if we should find ourselves in violent confrontation. I fear you may not be grasping the full gravity of the situation. While I'm not sure what or why, it's obvious, given what we know, that something untoward happens to whoever takes that so-called temple up on their offer. I'd rather you not volunteer to be their latest victim."
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Apr 19, 2014 05:53
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