*A Major Loss. A Major Lost*
Here is the link to the transcript for AIM online session 54.
PC: Doorjamb
Monday, October 28, 2013
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Session 53 (10/17/13)
*Tour de Remorse*
Essel, Martenin 23rd, 838 ID
Sgt. Baro awakens with a dreadful hangover, deciding to get some coffee before rejoining his companions. He takes a cup at the Fiery Rat, the place where he had gotten drunk, and Flake Falloway inquires if he's dropped by so early to look for a missing item. Apparently several other patrons of the prior evening have lost things at the Rat. Baro checks his inventory and all seems well. Meanwhile, Gruulsh continues to press some training upon the Last Eidolorn, this time challenging a quartet of new recruits who haven't yet even been suited up for armor. Among these recruits is a pudgy, imposing former cook's boy named Benevolis who refuses to spar with a proper weapon, instead sticking to his rolling pin. He actually manages to land a few 'lucky' blows on Gruulsh, but she easily trounces them, noting that particular boy's strengths for possible officer placement. Eventually, the PCs all gather together once more, inspecting their purchases, and they are then approached by Captain Banghorn who wants to know their plans.
He insists they settle themselves into a new headquarters where he himself can reside and oversee their operations. The PCs first inquire about using Castle Floivin, which they recently helped liberate, but the Captain seems to believe the Regent might not go for that (especially having Ballyhoo or Mudgol in close proximity, for differing reasons). After several grumbles of disappointment, Banghorn suggests they could have an entire ruined dwarven stronghold if they could rout the giantkind dwelling within, and this would coincide with a possible mission to protect the elves of Littlewolf from warbands in the Frail Forest, that have been turning up with some frequency. Eventually the PCs concede to this idea, Gruulsh suggesting that it would also make a great staging location should the Vandrakki berserkers penetrate into Floivin Province. The matter settled, the PCs make a stop off at Teven's Tomes II so that Baro can purchase some items (he was unavailable during the previous shopping spree). After making inquiries about 'regenerate' spells to the twisted dwarf wizard, who boasts to Baro about how he's challenged the Regent of Toul Tabor to a spell duel, the party exits Floivin Keep through the East Gate.
They travel through the day to Halehusk, encountering naught but a giant ant mound which they do not disturb. Upon arriving, Baro, Neddyn, Ballyhoo and Aylward attend the Blind Vixen, while Mudgol and Gruulsh (his assigned babysitter for this stop) go to the Lone Wheel House. Mudgol is curious if they will remember that he has been banned from the premises. At the Vixen, the proprietress immediately calls out Ballyhoo, who insulted, decides it better to follow the half-orc and bugbear to the inn. Baro makes small chat with her, and then he and the gnomes are served an excellent meal while interacting with a Private Bazda, who is drinking on duty despite being one of the sole Last Eidolorn left in Halehusk. At the Lone Wheel House, Mudgol and Gruulsh are immediately ushered out to other dining quarters a waitress feels is more suitable for them...an emptied rabbit hutch out the back. Mudgol is brought a heaping helping of leftover pork and spoilt ale, which offends the monk. Ballyhoo, on the other hand, shows up and announces himself at the inn to the great joy of its patrons. He performs a ballad so well that even the livestock outside near the rabbit hutch seem smitten. In the end, they all gather together and decide to travel into the evening to press the distance towards Livenoak.
En route, while Aylward is scouting ahead on Light Wing, he spots a wagon approaching along the Great Westermarch to the north. Once he returns to tell the party, the sole occupant of the wagon, a gaunt old man named 'Vasiliste', from whom the paladin has sensed a disturbing aura, has set up a lantern and attempts to peddle wares...bone weapons which emanate magical energies. He's an excellent salesman, but only Neddyn is interested, purchasing a bone 'moon-touched' cudgel which Mudgol later identifies. Aylward does not seem willing to just leave matters be, but the other PCs insist they march forward. They reach Livenoak where Lord Ballyhoo invites the others to his tent-home. Realizing they might run out of space, Sgt. Baro also pitches his travel-tent, and begrudgingly allows Mudgol to sleep in it after the half-orc is immediately kicked out of Ballyhoo's house! The heroes sleep...
Ivric, Martenin 24th, 838 ID
In the morning, the group heads over to the nearby Leaping Knuckle Lodge, where patrons are already awake in good cheer, gaming with dice and boards, and a generous breakfast being distributed. Gruulsh and Ballyhoo shower the barkeep with coin, but then somehow the old man becomes engaged in an argument with Neddyn. Ballyhoo casts a number of beneficial spells on the man, which further escalates the dilemma, and infuriates the dainty serving wenches who begin screaming at the party. They eventually take off and head along the Great Westermarch towards Littlewolf. Baro, drunk once again after snagging a bottle of wine from the Leaping Knuckle, disappears into the woods. A peddler selling skunk sausages meets them on the road, but is rather vexed by Aylward and his bat. Gruulsh offers to console the man with a platinum coin, after which the merchant drops the cart and runs along to seek out a new life. They decide to burn the cart rather than sample its sausages... A bit later, they encounter a pair of annoying Reddenbalm House Guards, who harass them and report that they've encountered a drunken, tattooed man earlier from the woods (most likely the missing Baro).
After arriving at Littlewolf, a young elfmaid showers Gruulsh and Mudgol with garlands of flowers and other floral jewelry, trying to curb their stink a bit and also turn some coin. The party proceeds to the Elfmarket, where they end up being the only customers of the afternoon...a half dozen elf peddlers hawk goods to them, including candied taffies, nuts, and licorices, as well as a masterwork composite bow for Lord Ballyhoo. The PCs pick up some rumors of where the giant raiders are originating, and it is indeed Ettinhead from which the tide stems. They are prompted to visit Shayla the Swineherd, a local wisewoman, and so they do. She turns out not to be characteristically normal for an elf, broader of build and more toned and muscular, and she does not seem thrilled with the PCs, claiming she did not send for help. She seems to be particularly offended by the two gnomes due to their chosen faiths. However, she confirms where the giant problem is coming from, and begins to soften once Ballyhoo presents her with the bible of Corellon that he and Ginkwrench had discovered in the ruined shrine east of Floivin Province, when they were hunting Baron Mordanc. She seems surprised, and offers to 'peruse' the book with Ballyhoo later that evening...smugly, the bard returns to the Elfmarket where his companions await...to plot their next move...he already knows his.
PCs: Aylward, Ballyhoo, Baro, Gruulsh, Mudgol, Neddyn
NPCs
Benevolis (human male): A robust young man in his early 20s, with longish dirty blonde hair, Benevolis is a recent recruit into the Last Eidolorn who was formerly working as a cook's boy at the Dirty Dagger Alehouse. He seems rather bold and scrappy, having accrued some skill at bludgeoning with a rolling pin; claims it comes from altercations at the Alehouse.
Private Badza (human male): An insensitive, swarthy soldier stationed at Halehusk after the refugee farmers decided to return to their homes. He's got deepset, glittering brunette eyes and fat sideburns, not to mention a rude tongue that immediately seems to offend the gnomes Aylward and Neddyn. Seems to have a few drinks at the Blind Vixen while on duty, and rub his nose in everyone's business who comes along.
Shayla the Swinehard (elf female): Quite toned, fit and muscular for her race, Shayla is an elfmaiden of some years who devoted her life to Crake and the Circle of druids operating in the Empire. She is seen as a sort of neutral, spiritual leader to the elves of Littlewolf, often mediating the disputes between the Roodeye and Reddenbalm clans. Has thick brunette hair in long braids, and wears a plain dun-colored shift which serves to further enhance her unique appearance. Has brown eyes and a hawklike stare, and her hands have obviously done much physical work in her years.
Vasiliste (human? male): A gaunt, elderly man with graying skin and grayer hair, seems to also have some sort of old concussion wound that disfigured the crown of his skull. Wears ragged, gentlemanly jacket and tophat and claims to be a vendor of rare and exotic goods, including the 'Bones of Dakaa', ivory crafted weapons that he claims were carved from the ivory of a great land beast a thousand miles south (of the Eidolorn Empire). The PCs encounter him late at night on the Great Westermarch road between Halehusk and Livenoak. Aylward senses a great evil within him...
Essel, Martenin 23rd, 838 ID
Sgt. Baro awakens with a dreadful hangover, deciding to get some coffee before rejoining his companions. He takes a cup at the Fiery Rat, the place where he had gotten drunk, and Flake Falloway inquires if he's dropped by so early to look for a missing item. Apparently several other patrons of the prior evening have lost things at the Rat. Baro checks his inventory and all seems well. Meanwhile, Gruulsh continues to press some training upon the Last Eidolorn, this time challenging a quartet of new recruits who haven't yet even been suited up for armor. Among these recruits is a pudgy, imposing former cook's boy named Benevolis who refuses to spar with a proper weapon, instead sticking to his rolling pin. He actually manages to land a few 'lucky' blows on Gruulsh, but she easily trounces them, noting that particular boy's strengths for possible officer placement. Eventually, the PCs all gather together once more, inspecting their purchases, and they are then approached by Captain Banghorn who wants to know their plans.
He insists they settle themselves into a new headquarters where he himself can reside and oversee their operations. The PCs first inquire about using Castle Floivin, which they recently helped liberate, but the Captain seems to believe the Regent might not go for that (especially having Ballyhoo or Mudgol in close proximity, for differing reasons). After several grumbles of disappointment, Banghorn suggests they could have an entire ruined dwarven stronghold if they could rout the giantkind dwelling within, and this would coincide with a possible mission to protect the elves of Littlewolf from warbands in the Frail Forest, that have been turning up with some frequency. Eventually the PCs concede to this idea, Gruulsh suggesting that it would also make a great staging location should the Vandrakki berserkers penetrate into Floivin Province. The matter settled, the PCs make a stop off at Teven's Tomes II so that Baro can purchase some items (he was unavailable during the previous shopping spree). After making inquiries about 'regenerate' spells to the twisted dwarf wizard, who boasts to Baro about how he's challenged the Regent of Toul Tabor to a spell duel, the party exits Floivin Keep through the East Gate.
They travel through the day to Halehusk, encountering naught but a giant ant mound which they do not disturb. Upon arriving, Baro, Neddyn, Ballyhoo and Aylward attend the Blind Vixen, while Mudgol and Gruulsh (his assigned babysitter for this stop) go to the Lone Wheel House. Mudgol is curious if they will remember that he has been banned from the premises. At the Vixen, the proprietress immediately calls out Ballyhoo, who insulted, decides it better to follow the half-orc and bugbear to the inn. Baro makes small chat with her, and then he and the gnomes are served an excellent meal while interacting with a Private Bazda, who is drinking on duty despite being one of the sole Last Eidolorn left in Halehusk. At the Lone Wheel House, Mudgol and Gruulsh are immediately ushered out to other dining quarters a waitress feels is more suitable for them...an emptied rabbit hutch out the back. Mudgol is brought a heaping helping of leftover pork and spoilt ale, which offends the monk. Ballyhoo, on the other hand, shows up and announces himself at the inn to the great joy of its patrons. He performs a ballad so well that even the livestock outside near the rabbit hutch seem smitten. In the end, they all gather together and decide to travel into the evening to press the distance towards Livenoak.
En route, while Aylward is scouting ahead on Light Wing, he spots a wagon approaching along the Great Westermarch to the north. Once he returns to tell the party, the sole occupant of the wagon, a gaunt old man named 'Vasiliste', from whom the paladin has sensed a disturbing aura, has set up a lantern and attempts to peddle wares...bone weapons which emanate magical energies. He's an excellent salesman, but only Neddyn is interested, purchasing a bone 'moon-touched' cudgel which Mudgol later identifies. Aylward does not seem willing to just leave matters be, but the other PCs insist they march forward. They reach Livenoak where Lord Ballyhoo invites the others to his tent-home. Realizing they might run out of space, Sgt. Baro also pitches his travel-tent, and begrudgingly allows Mudgol to sleep in it after the half-orc is immediately kicked out of Ballyhoo's house! The heroes sleep...
Ivric, Martenin 24th, 838 ID
In the morning, the group heads over to the nearby Leaping Knuckle Lodge, where patrons are already awake in good cheer, gaming with dice and boards, and a generous breakfast being distributed. Gruulsh and Ballyhoo shower the barkeep with coin, but then somehow the old man becomes engaged in an argument with Neddyn. Ballyhoo casts a number of beneficial spells on the man, which further escalates the dilemma, and infuriates the dainty serving wenches who begin screaming at the party. They eventually take off and head along the Great Westermarch towards Littlewolf. Baro, drunk once again after snagging a bottle of wine from the Leaping Knuckle, disappears into the woods. A peddler selling skunk sausages meets them on the road, but is rather vexed by Aylward and his bat. Gruulsh offers to console the man with a platinum coin, after which the merchant drops the cart and runs along to seek out a new life. They decide to burn the cart rather than sample its sausages... A bit later, they encounter a pair of annoying Reddenbalm House Guards, who harass them and report that they've encountered a drunken, tattooed man earlier from the woods (most likely the missing Baro).
After arriving at Littlewolf, a young elfmaid showers Gruulsh and Mudgol with garlands of flowers and other floral jewelry, trying to curb their stink a bit and also turn some coin. The party proceeds to the Elfmarket, where they end up being the only customers of the afternoon...a half dozen elf peddlers hawk goods to them, including candied taffies, nuts, and licorices, as well as a masterwork composite bow for Lord Ballyhoo. The PCs pick up some rumors of where the giant raiders are originating, and it is indeed Ettinhead from which the tide stems. They are prompted to visit Shayla the Swineherd, a local wisewoman, and so they do. She turns out not to be characteristically normal for an elf, broader of build and more toned and muscular, and she does not seem thrilled with the PCs, claiming she did not send for help. She seems to be particularly offended by the two gnomes due to their chosen faiths. However, she confirms where the giant problem is coming from, and begins to soften once Ballyhoo presents her with the bible of Corellon that he and Ginkwrench had discovered in the ruined shrine east of Floivin Province, when they were hunting Baron Mordanc. She seems surprised, and offers to 'peruse' the book with Ballyhoo later that evening...smugly, the bard returns to the Elfmarket where his companions await...to plot their next move...he already knows his.
PCs: Aylward, Ballyhoo, Baro, Gruulsh, Mudgol, Neddyn
NPCs
Benevolis (human male): A robust young man in his early 20s, with longish dirty blonde hair, Benevolis is a recent recruit into the Last Eidolorn who was formerly working as a cook's boy at the Dirty Dagger Alehouse. He seems rather bold and scrappy, having accrued some skill at bludgeoning with a rolling pin; claims it comes from altercations at the Alehouse.
Private Badza (human male): An insensitive, swarthy soldier stationed at Halehusk after the refugee farmers decided to return to their homes. He's got deepset, glittering brunette eyes and fat sideburns, not to mention a rude tongue that immediately seems to offend the gnomes Aylward and Neddyn. Seems to have a few drinks at the Blind Vixen while on duty, and rub his nose in everyone's business who comes along.
Shayla the Swinehard (elf female): Quite toned, fit and muscular for her race, Shayla is an elfmaiden of some years who devoted her life to Crake and the Circle of druids operating in the Empire. She is seen as a sort of neutral, spiritual leader to the elves of Littlewolf, often mediating the disputes between the Roodeye and Reddenbalm clans. Has thick brunette hair in long braids, and wears a plain dun-colored shift which serves to further enhance her unique appearance. Has brown eyes and a hawklike stare, and her hands have obviously done much physical work in her years.
Vasiliste (human? male): A gaunt, elderly man with graying skin and grayer hair, seems to also have some sort of old concussion wound that disfigured the crown of his skull. Wears ragged, gentlemanly jacket and tophat and claims to be a vendor of rare and exotic goods, including the 'Bones of Dakaa', ivory crafted weapons that he claims were carved from the ivory of a great land beast a thousand miles south (of the Eidolorn Empire). The PCs encounter him late at night on the Great Westermarch road between Halehusk and Livenoak. Aylward senses a great evil within him...
Monday, October 7, 2013
Monday, September 30, 2013
Online Session 52 (9/30/13)
Here is the link to the transcript of AIM online session 52.
PCs: Doorjamb
NPCs
Doss Drarn (human male): Thick-armed, middle aged man with long brown hair, he is garbed in finely crafted furs and speaks with a deep, resonant voice from his chest. Doss is a refugee who fled Vettlar with several cousins and strangers on a half-dozen roughshod flotilla made from rafts and debris. Doorjamb Grizzlebeard encountered and fed the man and his retinue while they were rafting south down the Pinewater, and he pointed them out to Tarndim for refuge.
Tyro Roodeye (elf male): A slender but fit elf of unknown years, Tyro’s platinum brow and slender, aquiline nose are all adorned with rings of sparkling gold, while similar bands are clasped to his wrists and elbows. Thinning, long platinum hair hangs behind his neck. He leans upon a staff affixed with crows’ beaks, and wears a fine cloak of red over a russet leather robe. Tyro is sent on behalf of Littlewolf to procure some assistance with a 'giant' problem stemming from the ruins at Ettenhead.
PCs: Doorjamb
NPCs
Doss Drarn (human male): Thick-armed, middle aged man with long brown hair, he is garbed in finely crafted furs and speaks with a deep, resonant voice from his chest. Doss is a refugee who fled Vettlar with several cousins and strangers on a half-dozen roughshod flotilla made from rafts and debris. Doorjamb Grizzlebeard encountered and fed the man and his retinue while they were rafting south down the Pinewater, and he pointed them out to Tarndim for refuge.
Tyro Roodeye (elf male): A slender but fit elf of unknown years, Tyro’s platinum brow and slender, aquiline nose are all adorned with rings of sparkling gold, while similar bands are clasped to his wrists and elbows. Thinning, long platinum hair hangs behind his neck. He leans upon a staff affixed with crows’ beaks, and wears a fine cloak of red over a russet leather robe. Tyro is sent on behalf of Littlewolf to procure some assistance with a 'giant' problem stemming from the ruins at Ettenhead.
Friday, September 13, 2013
Session 52 (9/13/13)
*The Suckers and the Sucked*
Verne, Martenin 22nd, 838 ID
Soon after the close victory in Castle Floivin, Doorjamb and Captain Lesper take off together to some unknown destination, leaving the rest of the PCs to 'clean up' the mess. They do so, looting the useful arms and armor off the githyanki forces, and then searching the rest of the first floor for survivors. They discover the newly appointed Treasurer of Floivin, one Coven, stuffed in the bottom of a desk in the Castellan's Office, who is escorted out by Mistlethroe; and the Regent herself placed in some sort of necromantic stasis and set aside in one of the ornamental suits of armor in the Regent's Meeting chamber/study. She is grateful for the rescue, though rather peeved that the invasion took place to begin with, and implores the party to seek out any other survivors. They find dozens of corpses of both castle staff and petitioners in the front foyer to the castle, which answers that question. Determined to leave the charnel house, the Regent and the PCs step outside, the body of Ginkwrench in tow, and they meet up with Hoary, Banghorn, and Schnoo, who appears to have been frizzle fried, losing much of his hair and personality in the process.
The burgundy robed wizard informs them that while he wasn't able to put an end to the githyankis' dragon battle platform, he did in the riders and managed to use a taxing spell to permanently transform the creature into a large red lake fish, which will make some angler happy in the upcoming seasons. The Regent and Hoary order that some soldiers comb over the upper levels of the castle to ensure there are no more survivors or enemies, and then the group begins to debate whether or not to pursue immediate retaliation into the Astral Plane. Mistlethroe, the resident 'expert', advises against it, since the Fell Queen will be aware of any force moving in on the mercane trade vessels, there aren't enough local wizards who can 'plane shift' an army directly onto the Fell Queen's stronghold, and training them all to 'fall' through the Astral might prove disastrous. Instead, it is ultimately decided that Schnoo and Mistlethroe will moor the Flabbergast Manor onto its lakeside Prime Material location indefinitely, so as not to invite further knowledge of their location to hostile forces. Hoary posthumously promotes Ginkwrench to Captain, and also promotes Banghorn to that rank, and Gruulsh to that of Lieutenant. Before rejoicing, the PCs head to the Cathedral of Blades to deal with the gnome barbarian's remains...
When they arrive, several of the PCs notice a large, golden-furred bat suspended from one of the statues atop the Cathedral. Gruulsh begins to scale the church, and the others argue about what to do, when Conniff blows out the front doors and tells them to leave it be, stop climbing the sacred place, and come inside. He takes specific notice to Lord Ballyhoo, whom he orders into his office. Meanwhile several acolytes come to take Ginkwrench's (looted) remains. Neddyn, flashing his wasp symbol of Radhol Thidhe around in the open, is confronted by a rigid female acolyte who tells him to put it away. A snoring, cloaked figure sits in the back pew of the church, and Mudgol and Gruulsh take an interest, to discover a golden haired gnome who has 'squatted' here for some time now. In Conniff's office, he accosts Ballyhoo for his recent actions with a female acolyte which resulted in her pregnancy (purportedly the bard's child!). The minstrel agrees to pay some cash to take care of the inevitable offspring, though he insists upon seeing the poor woman, which the bishop will simply not allow. Tired of the chaos of his party, Baro decides to head out for a drink at the Fiery Rat. Ballyhoo nabs Neddyn and heads for the Seven Flood Inn.
Before the rest of the PCs leave, Conniff informs the golden gnome, Aylward, that perhaps these men have the 'cause' he's been looking for, and that he and his bat should be gone and make some use of themselves. The gnome reluctantly agrees to speak with them, and he follows them out to the Armory Square. After arriving at the Fiery Rat, Baro has a heart to heart with Odd Jon and Flake, before the three decide to get drunk to the memory of Ginkwrench. In the midst of this desobering, a band of polite, black-clad halfling minstrels enters the Rat, and requests permission to perform: Machli and His 'Pies, so they are called. They are skilled and diverse musicians, able to handle requests and immediately pick up business for the Rat, since everyone wants to know who the band is. After some mingling in between songs, the halflings up and leave, believing that they've made the right impression on Odd Jon and will be invited back to perform. Baro stays a bit later before heading back to the barracks at Armory Square.
Meanwhile, Ballyhoo drags Neddyn to the Seven Floods Inn, where the bard is met with great fanfare, and the cripple given preferential treatment for his company. The two are bathed and then fed royally, and a crowd begins to gather once Ballyhoo performs. As usual, a flock of females surrounds the handsome bard, and one persistent woman name Skara makes several 'offers' at Neddyn, who rightfully seems frightened by her outrageous accent and unwelcome amorous advances. Despite Ballyhoo's encouragement, the gnome spurns the woman, but not before she makes off with the bard's platinum. Seeing that the gnome is possibly depressed, and hideously garbed, Ballyhoo snags him once more and drags him over to Swyft the Tailor, who is currently closed, but makes an exception when he sees that it is the noted bard at the door. Swyft is determined to take the raunchy, crippled priest and perform a great transformation....Ballyhoo leaves him off overnight in the capable clothier's hands.
After checking out their vault's safety under the burned Royal Leathers, Mudgol and Gruulsh arrive at the Armory Square with the gnome paladin and his bat, the latter of which perches directly on top of the barracks. Mudgol is almost saddened to find no practical jokes awaiting him. In fact, it turns out that the last two privates who were quartered in Mudgol and Baro's bunks died earlier that day against the githyanki's dragon. Sad times indeed. Some curious soldiers gather outside, and one, a Pvt. Enraz decides he wants to join the PCs unit, so as to procure a dire bat mount for himself (not exactly 'aware' of the truth, dealing with the half-orc diviner). He is told by Gruulsh that he must pass a sparring challenge with her to get into their unit, and it's agreed the two will meet the following morning and duel. The PCs go to their bunk to sleep, Lightwing and Aylward actually sharing a bed together...and then, a drunken Baro lurches in, seeing the ridiculous sight of a giant bat, bugbear and half-orc in his bunk, he lets loose a thunderstone in drunken rage! The stone explodes, causing Lightwing to freak out and smash through the roof!
The commotion attracts angry comments from neighboring barracks, and a shirtless Commander Hoary comes to discipline the PCs, ordering them to repair the whole the next day. But Baro has already fallen into deep sleep...Gruulsh wakes up later to do her rounds in the city, and Ballyhoo makes one more 'stop' at the Cathedral of Blades to learn that his 'sweetheart' has been stashed at a convent in Nobbish, but most of the party has finally drifted off to dreamland.
Essel, Martenin 23rd, 838 ID
In the morning, after taking his breakfast, Ballyhoo is shocked to discover a divine vision of fashion having arrived at the Seven Floods, showing him up! And it is none other than the cripple Neddyn, whose rose fashioned garments eclipse any in the city. And then the gnome hands Lord Ballyhoo the bill for these tailoring services, and shock ensues. Desperate to get the money he needs, he heads out to join up with the rest of the party. Gruulsh has knocked out Pvt. Enraz and several other soldiers, and along with Mudgol, Lightwing and Aylward, they are repairing the roof to the barracks. Once united, the party goes on a tour of the Keep to sell the stash they got from the githyanki, after putting a few choice items into the party treasure. They reward Aylward with a few complementary gifts, and then sell a huge pile of enchanted and masterwork weapons and armor to Dronn and Teven, who pay them handsomely. They then proceed to pick up a few scrolls and items they can afford, and divide the remainder of the loot amongst themselves, leaving Doorjamb's share with Hoary. Mudgol, unable to find another charity scrying mirror, commissions Dronn Bellowbroth to construct a new one, which should take about a week.
Next, the PCs meet with the newly minted Captain Banghorn, who is once again in charge of their missions, and they begin to discuss resettling their headquarters and vault, since the Royal Leathers is obviously not going to be of much use...
PCs: Aylward, Ballyhoo, Baro, Gruulsh, Mudgol, Neddyn
NPCs
Machli (halfling male): Plucking at a lovely mandolin of ash and ivory, this smug and portly middle-aged halfling seems to smile with his amber-flecked eyes moreso than his jaw. Adorned in fine-fitting black-dyed leather armor, his rings are aglitter with silver and jewels, as is the hilt of the short sword strapped to his left leg. Machli is a wandering minstrel who travels with eight other musicians he refers to as his 'Pies, and they have recently set their sights on entertaining in Floivin Keep. Machli meets with Odd Jon, Flake and Baro at the Fiery Rat, where they offer their first performance. The evoker and dwarves are taken in with how tight and uniform their performance is, and their ability to draw customers and 'mingle' among them in between numbers.
Pvt. Enraz (human male): An 'ambitious', moustached young soldier in his early 20s, Enraz seems taken in with Aylward's bat mount after the gnome brings it to armory square. He speaks with Mudgol about joining the unit, but then faces a sparring challenge from Gruulsh. Although he tries to get out of the match with the bugbear and face Mudgol instead, he nonetheless shows up for the fight and is dispatched fairly quickly by the monk, though not so quickly as several others unfortunate enough to be chosen for 'training'.
Skara (human female): A swarthy, plump woman with curly black hair and glimmering, dark eyes, she is a prostitute who services the wealthy crowd at the Seven Floods Inn. She speaks with a strange accent that falls somewhere between Jersey and Philly, TWO PLACES THAT DO NOT EXIST IN THIS WORLD, and seems to take a liking to Neddyn Starkweather, if only because the cripple is dining in the presence of the ever popular Lord Ballyhoo.
Verne, Martenin 22nd, 838 ID
Soon after the close victory in Castle Floivin, Doorjamb and Captain Lesper take off together to some unknown destination, leaving the rest of the PCs to 'clean up' the mess. They do so, looting the useful arms and armor off the githyanki forces, and then searching the rest of the first floor for survivors. They discover the newly appointed Treasurer of Floivin, one Coven, stuffed in the bottom of a desk in the Castellan's Office, who is escorted out by Mistlethroe; and the Regent herself placed in some sort of necromantic stasis and set aside in one of the ornamental suits of armor in the Regent's Meeting chamber/study. She is grateful for the rescue, though rather peeved that the invasion took place to begin with, and implores the party to seek out any other survivors. They find dozens of corpses of both castle staff and petitioners in the front foyer to the castle, which answers that question. Determined to leave the charnel house, the Regent and the PCs step outside, the body of Ginkwrench in tow, and they meet up with Hoary, Banghorn, and Schnoo, who appears to have been frizzle fried, losing much of his hair and personality in the process.
The burgundy robed wizard informs them that while he wasn't able to put an end to the githyankis' dragon battle platform, he did in the riders and managed to use a taxing spell to permanently transform the creature into a large red lake fish, which will make some angler happy in the upcoming seasons. The Regent and Hoary order that some soldiers comb over the upper levels of the castle to ensure there are no more survivors or enemies, and then the group begins to debate whether or not to pursue immediate retaliation into the Astral Plane. Mistlethroe, the resident 'expert', advises against it, since the Fell Queen will be aware of any force moving in on the mercane trade vessels, there aren't enough local wizards who can 'plane shift' an army directly onto the Fell Queen's stronghold, and training them all to 'fall' through the Astral might prove disastrous. Instead, it is ultimately decided that Schnoo and Mistlethroe will moor the Flabbergast Manor onto its lakeside Prime Material location indefinitely, so as not to invite further knowledge of their location to hostile forces. Hoary posthumously promotes Ginkwrench to Captain, and also promotes Banghorn to that rank, and Gruulsh to that of Lieutenant. Before rejoicing, the PCs head to the Cathedral of Blades to deal with the gnome barbarian's remains...
When they arrive, several of the PCs notice a large, golden-furred bat suspended from one of the statues atop the Cathedral. Gruulsh begins to scale the church, and the others argue about what to do, when Conniff blows out the front doors and tells them to leave it be, stop climbing the sacred place, and come inside. He takes specific notice to Lord Ballyhoo, whom he orders into his office. Meanwhile several acolytes come to take Ginkwrench's (looted) remains. Neddyn, flashing his wasp symbol of Radhol Thidhe around in the open, is confronted by a rigid female acolyte who tells him to put it away. A snoring, cloaked figure sits in the back pew of the church, and Mudgol and Gruulsh take an interest, to discover a golden haired gnome who has 'squatted' here for some time now. In Conniff's office, he accosts Ballyhoo for his recent actions with a female acolyte which resulted in her pregnancy (purportedly the bard's child!). The minstrel agrees to pay some cash to take care of the inevitable offspring, though he insists upon seeing the poor woman, which the bishop will simply not allow. Tired of the chaos of his party, Baro decides to head out for a drink at the Fiery Rat. Ballyhoo nabs Neddyn and heads for the Seven Flood Inn.
Before the rest of the PCs leave, Conniff informs the golden gnome, Aylward, that perhaps these men have the 'cause' he's been looking for, and that he and his bat should be gone and make some use of themselves. The gnome reluctantly agrees to speak with them, and he follows them out to the Armory Square. After arriving at the Fiery Rat, Baro has a heart to heart with Odd Jon and Flake, before the three decide to get drunk to the memory of Ginkwrench. In the midst of this desobering, a band of polite, black-clad halfling minstrels enters the Rat, and requests permission to perform: Machli and His 'Pies, so they are called. They are skilled and diverse musicians, able to handle requests and immediately pick up business for the Rat, since everyone wants to know who the band is. After some mingling in between songs, the halflings up and leave, believing that they've made the right impression on Odd Jon and will be invited back to perform. Baro stays a bit later before heading back to the barracks at Armory Square.
Meanwhile, Ballyhoo drags Neddyn to the Seven Floods Inn, where the bard is met with great fanfare, and the cripple given preferential treatment for his company. The two are bathed and then fed royally, and a crowd begins to gather once Ballyhoo performs. As usual, a flock of females surrounds the handsome bard, and one persistent woman name Skara makes several 'offers' at Neddyn, who rightfully seems frightened by her outrageous accent and unwelcome amorous advances. Despite Ballyhoo's encouragement, the gnome spurns the woman, but not before she makes off with the bard's platinum. Seeing that the gnome is possibly depressed, and hideously garbed, Ballyhoo snags him once more and drags him over to Swyft the Tailor, who is currently closed, but makes an exception when he sees that it is the noted bard at the door. Swyft is determined to take the raunchy, crippled priest and perform a great transformation....Ballyhoo leaves him off overnight in the capable clothier's hands.
After checking out their vault's safety under the burned Royal Leathers, Mudgol and Gruulsh arrive at the Armory Square with the gnome paladin and his bat, the latter of which perches directly on top of the barracks. Mudgol is almost saddened to find no practical jokes awaiting him. In fact, it turns out that the last two privates who were quartered in Mudgol and Baro's bunks died earlier that day against the githyanki's dragon. Sad times indeed. Some curious soldiers gather outside, and one, a Pvt. Enraz decides he wants to join the PCs unit, so as to procure a dire bat mount for himself (not exactly 'aware' of the truth, dealing with the half-orc diviner). He is told by Gruulsh that he must pass a sparring challenge with her to get into their unit, and it's agreed the two will meet the following morning and duel. The PCs go to their bunk to sleep, Lightwing and Aylward actually sharing a bed together...and then, a drunken Baro lurches in, seeing the ridiculous sight of a giant bat, bugbear and half-orc in his bunk, he lets loose a thunderstone in drunken rage! The stone explodes, causing Lightwing to freak out and smash through the roof!
The commotion attracts angry comments from neighboring barracks, and a shirtless Commander Hoary comes to discipline the PCs, ordering them to repair the whole the next day. But Baro has already fallen into deep sleep...Gruulsh wakes up later to do her rounds in the city, and Ballyhoo makes one more 'stop' at the Cathedral of Blades to learn that his 'sweetheart' has been stashed at a convent in Nobbish, but most of the party has finally drifted off to dreamland.
Essel, Martenin 23rd, 838 ID
In the morning, after taking his breakfast, Ballyhoo is shocked to discover a divine vision of fashion having arrived at the Seven Floods, showing him up! And it is none other than the cripple Neddyn, whose rose fashioned garments eclipse any in the city. And then the gnome hands Lord Ballyhoo the bill for these tailoring services, and shock ensues. Desperate to get the money he needs, he heads out to join up with the rest of the party. Gruulsh has knocked out Pvt. Enraz and several other soldiers, and along with Mudgol, Lightwing and Aylward, they are repairing the roof to the barracks. Once united, the party goes on a tour of the Keep to sell the stash they got from the githyanki, after putting a few choice items into the party treasure. They reward Aylward with a few complementary gifts, and then sell a huge pile of enchanted and masterwork weapons and armor to Dronn and Teven, who pay them handsomely. They then proceed to pick up a few scrolls and items they can afford, and divide the remainder of the loot amongst themselves, leaving Doorjamb's share with Hoary. Mudgol, unable to find another charity scrying mirror, commissions Dronn Bellowbroth to construct a new one, which should take about a week.
Next, the PCs meet with the newly minted Captain Banghorn, who is once again in charge of their missions, and they begin to discuss resettling their headquarters and vault, since the Royal Leathers is obviously not going to be of much use...
PCs: Aylward, Ballyhoo, Baro, Gruulsh, Mudgol, Neddyn
NPCs
Machli (halfling male): Plucking at a lovely mandolin of ash and ivory, this smug and portly middle-aged halfling seems to smile with his amber-flecked eyes moreso than his jaw. Adorned in fine-fitting black-dyed leather armor, his rings are aglitter with silver and jewels, as is the hilt of the short sword strapped to his left leg. Machli is a wandering minstrel who travels with eight other musicians he refers to as his 'Pies, and they have recently set their sights on entertaining in Floivin Keep. Machli meets with Odd Jon, Flake and Baro at the Fiery Rat, where they offer their first performance. The evoker and dwarves are taken in with how tight and uniform their performance is, and their ability to draw customers and 'mingle' among them in between numbers.
Pvt. Enraz (human male): An 'ambitious', moustached young soldier in his early 20s, Enraz seems taken in with Aylward's bat mount after the gnome brings it to armory square. He speaks with Mudgol about joining the unit, but then faces a sparring challenge from Gruulsh. Although he tries to get out of the match with the bugbear and face Mudgol instead, he nonetheless shows up for the fight and is dispatched fairly quickly by the monk, though not so quickly as several others unfortunate enough to be chosen for 'training'.
Skara (human female): A swarthy, plump woman with curly black hair and glimmering, dark eyes, she is a prostitute who services the wealthy crowd at the Seven Floods Inn. She speaks with a strange accent that falls somewhere between Jersey and Philly, TWO PLACES THAT DO NOT EXIST IN THIS WORLD, and seems to take a liking to Neddyn Starkweather, if only because the cripple is dining in the presence of the ever popular Lord Ballyhoo.
Friday, August 23, 2013
Online/Tabletop Session 51 (8/23/13)
*Consequences*
Varony, Martenin 21st, 838 ID
The heroes manage to pull themselves out of the Mothergorge in Badash, and then they make a brief trek across the Fyreklaw Barrens until they find a defensible outcropping of stone and cactus where they can make rest. Watchful eyes remain directed at Badash, wary of being tracked since the orcs had begun to 'purge' the pits of their slave town.
Verne, Martenin 22nd, 838 ID
Lord Ballyhoo is shaken awake by Lt. Banghorn, who informs him there is an emergency in the city that might require his services. As the bard and cripple emerge from the Seven Floods Inn, Ballyhoo is shocked to see fire raining down from the sky, as a massive red wyrm threatens the Western half of Floivin Keep. They rush off to a temporary operation center where Commander Hoary is trying to put together a defense plan against this new, unexpected threat. Several members of the Arkana Arkiva are present, including the dean (Schnoo) and chancellor (Mistlethroe), who quickly put 2 and 2 together once they make out the invasion force that has captured Castle Floivin, murdered most of the servants and house guards, and who are now holding Regent Velvedine and an unknown number of other public officials captive inside... Hoary asks that the wizards recall the other PCs to send a team in to deal with the threat, while the scant Eidolorn soldiers deal with the dragon.
Thus, Mistlethroe uses scrying and teleport spells to snatch up the unwary Mudgol, as well as Doorjamb, the latter of whom is none too plussed to be pulled off the scent of his own prey. Captain Lesper comes along also. Meanwhile, Schnoo has recovered the rest of the party from the Fyreklaw Barrens, popping in as they broke fast and prepared to move off. The PCs are eventually all gathered at the operations center, where Mistlethroe begins to accost and accuse Mudgol of attracting the githyanki of Takesh're to Floivin Keep! According to the gnome, something on their quest to free the other Arkana Arkiva staff happened where the general location of the Flabbergast Manor's Prime Material location was revealed to the Fell Queen and her minions, who are raging angry at Mistlethroe and Mudgol. So they brought one of their dragon transports to the proper location, and plane shifted to the Prime to exact payback! Mistlethroe believes they found this information out from githzerai refugees who Mudgol and Rumpridge might have prompted to seek safety at Flabbergast...
At any rate, the githyanki have arrived and take over Castle Floivin to provoke their targets to action, and sure enough, it happens. Schnoo takes to the air for a spell duel against the red dragon, supported by all the artillery the Last Eidolorn can muster, and the PCs are ordered into the Castle to retrieve the Regent and eliminate the intruders. Mistlethroe blows through his clerical spells to heal up those PCs that are injured from their recent travails, and the group crosses ground quickly to the side and back of the castle, where Hoary claims there is at least one secret rear entrance disguised as one of the first floor narrow window/murder holes. Doorjamb is placed in command, and orders Ginkwrench and Gruulsh off the walls as they attempt to scale to the top of the Castle (possibly earning the attention of the genocidal dragon circling above). They finally find the secret entrance, and use the bugbear to stealthily scout ahead, while the rest of the party (which includes Mistlethroe and Odd Jon) trails behind. Gruulsh scales to the top of the corner tower but believes it is heading the PCs away from where they want to be.
Eventually, while on the second floor and clueless of much of the Castle (having only been in the Mopp's Welcome foyer and Bartlebuck Hall for their celebratory feast), Mudgol decides to use clairvoyance to find the enemy, setting it down on the first level Bartlebuck Hall where he thinks the astral invaders might have set up their defense. Sure enough, he spies a githyanki champion in there with a flashy, double bladed weapon spouting two forms of energy...along with a squad of mercenary warriors and gish witches, not to mention what appears to be a mind flayer! But then his spell is put out! The PCs now know where to plot their offensive, and so move down to the first floor where they enter a massive pantry area. Gruulsh listens at the doors, but unfortunately a lot of them have been locked by either the staff or the githyanki. So she begins to break them down, triggering a fireball attack from a gish witch awaiting in the Castle kitchens! She quickly dimension doors away in the next round, and the PCs come up with an idea to teleport Mudgol and one squad into the central Hall while the others attack through another door.
So the battle is joined, but once Mudgol and his squad port into the Bartlebuck Hall, they realize they are surrounded by a lot of opponent's the half-orc hadn't yet seen with his spell...including a hulking undead form and a score of aberrations (gricks) that have been molded into combat pets by the Fell Queen's legions. He realizes he has made a mistake, and after a round of combat begins, he uses another teleport spell to get them back out. Unknowing, Gruulsh breaks down the door into the central Hall, and with only Odd Jon and Baro for support, he jumps in, out of the direct path of the mind flayer, who seems to be observing and waiting for a chance opportunity to do something nasty. The monk is pinned down and fights desperately to survive against several casters, grick and other githyanki that assault him. Meanwhile, the githyanki captain and many of his forces have busted into the kitchen where they confront the rest of the group. Spells fly, and a grueling, detailed combat commences...most of the opponents seem less powerful than the PCs, but they have the numbers to compensate, and while Ballyhoo has hasted most of the party, so too have the gith witches hasted a number of the githyanki shock troops and their leader!
Gruulsh is inevitably brought down by a concentrated attack involving a hold spell, a wave of grick attacks and a githyanki assassin who appears in the fight, but she hasn't died and her wounds bind up naturally. In the main melee, Ginkwrench the barbarian engages the githyanki champion...it doesn't end well, as the gnome is obliterated by the massive damage from a series of lightning-speed attacks via the champions double-weapon. Once losing his temporary Constitution, our arm wrestling barbarian is embraced by oblivion, which enrages his companion to fight on harder. Neddyn remains busy healing where he can, while the three mage combo begins to slaughter the opposition, and Doorjamb hacks his way through any comers. Baro does manage to destroy the githyanki champion by penetrating his Spell Resistance, and at that point the mind flayer disappears, while having done nothing at all...!? The battle presses on, and much harm is delivered, but the PCs and their friends eventually wipe the floor with the remainder of the gith invaders. They suspect that several of the githyanki might have escaped out into the Keep, but the immediate threat in the Castle has been ended. They quickly loot the bodies of the enemy mercenaries, gather up Ginkwrench's belongings and set out to find what became of any hostages...
PCs: Ballyhoo, Baro, Doorjamb, Ginkwrench, Gruulsh, Mudgol, Neddyn
Varony, Martenin 21st, 838 ID
The heroes manage to pull themselves out of the Mothergorge in Badash, and then they make a brief trek across the Fyreklaw Barrens until they find a defensible outcropping of stone and cactus where they can make rest. Watchful eyes remain directed at Badash, wary of being tracked since the orcs had begun to 'purge' the pits of their slave town.
Verne, Martenin 22nd, 838 ID
Lord Ballyhoo is shaken awake by Lt. Banghorn, who informs him there is an emergency in the city that might require his services. As the bard and cripple emerge from the Seven Floods Inn, Ballyhoo is shocked to see fire raining down from the sky, as a massive red wyrm threatens the Western half of Floivin Keep. They rush off to a temporary operation center where Commander Hoary is trying to put together a defense plan against this new, unexpected threat. Several members of the Arkana Arkiva are present, including the dean (Schnoo) and chancellor (Mistlethroe), who quickly put 2 and 2 together once they make out the invasion force that has captured Castle Floivin, murdered most of the servants and house guards, and who are now holding Regent Velvedine and an unknown number of other public officials captive inside... Hoary asks that the wizards recall the other PCs to send a team in to deal with the threat, while the scant Eidolorn soldiers deal with the dragon.
Thus, Mistlethroe uses scrying and teleport spells to snatch up the unwary Mudgol, as well as Doorjamb, the latter of whom is none too plussed to be pulled off the scent of his own prey. Captain Lesper comes along also. Meanwhile, Schnoo has recovered the rest of the party from the Fyreklaw Barrens, popping in as they broke fast and prepared to move off. The PCs are eventually all gathered at the operations center, where Mistlethroe begins to accost and accuse Mudgol of attracting the githyanki of Takesh're to Floivin Keep! According to the gnome, something on their quest to free the other Arkana Arkiva staff happened where the general location of the Flabbergast Manor's Prime Material location was revealed to the Fell Queen and her minions, who are raging angry at Mistlethroe and Mudgol. So they brought one of their dragon transports to the proper location, and plane shifted to the Prime to exact payback! Mistlethroe believes they found this information out from githzerai refugees who Mudgol and Rumpridge might have prompted to seek safety at Flabbergast...
At any rate, the githyanki have arrived and take over Castle Floivin to provoke their targets to action, and sure enough, it happens. Schnoo takes to the air for a spell duel against the red dragon, supported by all the artillery the Last Eidolorn can muster, and the PCs are ordered into the Castle to retrieve the Regent and eliminate the intruders. Mistlethroe blows through his clerical spells to heal up those PCs that are injured from their recent travails, and the group crosses ground quickly to the side and back of the castle, where Hoary claims there is at least one secret rear entrance disguised as one of the first floor narrow window/murder holes. Doorjamb is placed in command, and orders Ginkwrench and Gruulsh off the walls as they attempt to scale to the top of the Castle (possibly earning the attention of the genocidal dragon circling above). They finally find the secret entrance, and use the bugbear to stealthily scout ahead, while the rest of the party (which includes Mistlethroe and Odd Jon) trails behind. Gruulsh scales to the top of the corner tower but believes it is heading the PCs away from where they want to be.
Eventually, while on the second floor and clueless of much of the Castle (having only been in the Mopp's Welcome foyer and Bartlebuck Hall for their celebratory feast), Mudgol decides to use clairvoyance to find the enemy, setting it down on the first level Bartlebuck Hall where he thinks the astral invaders might have set up their defense. Sure enough, he spies a githyanki champion in there with a flashy, double bladed weapon spouting two forms of energy...along with a squad of mercenary warriors and gish witches, not to mention what appears to be a mind flayer! But then his spell is put out! The PCs now know where to plot their offensive, and so move down to the first floor where they enter a massive pantry area. Gruulsh listens at the doors, but unfortunately a lot of them have been locked by either the staff or the githyanki. So she begins to break them down, triggering a fireball attack from a gish witch awaiting in the Castle kitchens! She quickly dimension doors away in the next round, and the PCs come up with an idea to teleport Mudgol and one squad into the central Hall while the others attack through another door.
So the battle is joined, but once Mudgol and his squad port into the Bartlebuck Hall, they realize they are surrounded by a lot of opponent's the half-orc hadn't yet seen with his spell...including a hulking undead form and a score of aberrations (gricks) that have been molded into combat pets by the Fell Queen's legions. He realizes he has made a mistake, and after a round of combat begins, he uses another teleport spell to get them back out. Unknowing, Gruulsh breaks down the door into the central Hall, and with only Odd Jon and Baro for support, he jumps in, out of the direct path of the mind flayer, who seems to be observing and waiting for a chance opportunity to do something nasty. The monk is pinned down and fights desperately to survive against several casters, grick and other githyanki that assault him. Meanwhile, the githyanki captain and many of his forces have busted into the kitchen where they confront the rest of the group. Spells fly, and a grueling, detailed combat commences...most of the opponents seem less powerful than the PCs, but they have the numbers to compensate, and while Ballyhoo has hasted most of the party, so too have the gith witches hasted a number of the githyanki shock troops and their leader!
Gruulsh is inevitably brought down by a concentrated attack involving a hold spell, a wave of grick attacks and a githyanki assassin who appears in the fight, but she hasn't died and her wounds bind up naturally. In the main melee, Ginkwrench the barbarian engages the githyanki champion...it doesn't end well, as the gnome is obliterated by the massive damage from a series of lightning-speed attacks via the champions double-weapon. Once losing his temporary Constitution, our arm wrestling barbarian is embraced by oblivion, which enrages his companion to fight on harder. Neddyn remains busy healing where he can, while the three mage combo begins to slaughter the opposition, and Doorjamb hacks his way through any comers. Baro does manage to destroy the githyanki champion by penetrating his Spell Resistance, and at that point the mind flayer disappears, while having done nothing at all...!? The battle presses on, and much harm is delivered, but the PCs and their friends eventually wipe the floor with the remainder of the gith invaders. They suspect that several of the githyanki might have escaped out into the Keep, but the immediate threat in the Castle has been ended. They quickly loot the bodies of the enemy mercenaries, gather up Ginkwrench's belongings and set out to find what became of any hostages...
PCs: Ballyhoo, Baro, Doorjamb, Ginkwrench, Gruulsh, Mudgol, Neddyn
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
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