mystic Posted: Jul 14 2005, 04:23 PM
Narrator: Our story begins in Harland's Port in 6429. Citizens of Harland's Port know that the world is a dangerous and ever evolving place.
There are rumours that the goddess of magic was eliminated somewhere in the past decade via a war of global proportions. The wizards who remained after her death turned to mass genocide for comfort. Of those that survived, many are often twisted and tainted by the dark gods who have captured the weave. As such, they either run the realms they live in, or hide. Orul (of which Harland is a part) happens to be run by a magocracy. Orul's Port used to be the capital of the kingdom, but Harland overtook it via economics. Orul remains a political power and has significant magical might however. The economical gap was increased even further when the road to the city called Redemption was built. Redemption isn't shown on most maps but roughly lies northwest of Harland about halfway to Arbalem. This new road gave Harland direct trade with Layland and Redemption. The halfling village, Merishef, lies half the distance between Redemption and Flandas along Azen lake. This newly settled halfling village also increased Harland's foothold on the land trading regions.
Within the last three years, reports of demon conquest have been increasing to the west of the city.They've yet to invade Orul's Port itself (the political captial), but rumours abound that King and Keeper Darktree is the puppet of the demonic infestation.
The kingdom of Jaynor is now an undead kingdom. The undead have been crawling and expanding from that area for forty years.
The elves have passed into legend a decade ago. The last of their kind were seen battling a hoard of great dragons and a divinely powered army of orcs, ten years ago. By all accounts, they have been removed from the realms, or at least scattered to the ends of the earth to die slowly.
mystic Posted: Jul 18 2005, 11:33 PM
Mr. Narrator: In the lands just outside the city proper of Harland's Port, bars abound on every block. These pubs form the staple of society. When one is out of work, one goes to a pub. When one wants to learn about the local gossip, one goes to a pub. When one wants a pint, they go to a pub. Adventure? Well, you guessed it!
The cities' inns and bordellos form the same function, but to a higher class of individual. In the dawn of such economic might, Harland's Inns have been choosy about their patrons. Often tossing out the rubbish. Indeed, just to enter the city across one of the bridges, costs a modest fee. Our story however, begins on the outskirts of Harland and not in these high class bordellos and inns.
Lately, a posting has appeared in each of the inns, bars and pubs throughout the city proper and its burbs. Even if one haven't seen or can't read (indeed, most cannot) one of the postings, its impossible not to hear the uproar and gossip about it. It reads as follows:
" EARN GOLD MEET MAYER TOP 10 ONLY FISHER'S PUB DAY CLOSE ON FIRST DAY OF SUMMER DAWN"
Summer Dawn is the name of the 5th month of 13 in the year. The posting appeared a week before the first day of Summer Dawn. Fisher's Pub is a well known bar hop close the Harland's cheaper docks. Frequented by some of the rougher individuals, it is curious that an offer to meet the mayor would occur at such a place. Nevertheless, it is where our adventure begins.
By noon, several would-be adventurers forced the pub master "Johns" to open up his doors early. By the time day breaks, and the characters of our story enter, there are two persons of note, anxiously awaiting the result of the posting. One is a dwarf in armor. Even in the tough burbs, this is an anomaly. The dwarf has long red hair that hangs around his head neatly and in braids and modest jewewlry. His beard is likewise braided and neatly kept. Beside him sits a human wearing a loosely kept black robe. His demeanor is one of wathfulness, taking in all around him. A quarterstaff sits in the crook of one of his arms, and its hard not to notice his presence. The two have untouched mugs of ale before them and talk little.
chadmeister Posted: Jul 19 2005, 12:16 AM
Shortly before nightfall, another young man enters the inn. He runs fingers through his short well-kept brown hair and makes his way to the bar. He is wearing simple black canvas pants and light brown shirt, but carries a battleaxe hung at his waist and a longbow hung off a full and travelworn backpack.
The young man rests his gear against the bar and motions for Johns. "Pint of your best," he asks, then turns to survey the room and its inhabitants. "All this must be good for business. Promise of a bit of gold's always a good draw, wouldn't you say?"
mystic Posted: Jul 19 2005, 01:03 AM
Johns is a middle aged human with close cut salt and peppered hair. While his size is not mammoth, 5'7", 155 lbs, he is well toned and muscular. His face seemed pulled into a grumpy frown as he meanders about serving the customers.
Johns nods and pours the man with the battleaxe the pint he ordered. He holds the pint and says, "5 copper per pint. Let me see the color of your coin if it do ya?" (assuming this is done, johns continues) "I'll keep a tab for you. The promise of gold does bring in interesting folks like yourself. Of course, tips don't hurt, if you kin. Still, the gold is not mine to give or be given. I've the place to look aftah and the prahblems aint mine this time." Johns seems about to continue with the repoire when another calls him away. "Well met," he says as he walks away.
As he leaves, you can't help but think he's increased his prices to compensate for the added company he's likely to receive.
thepondfool Posted: Jul 19 2005, 04:05 AM
I enter Fisher's Pub. I am a fair and lean human man (5'10, 165 lbs.) I wear colorful, but faded traveller's attire from black boots to brown breeches and blue tunic with a green cloak. I also sport a black hat with a purple feather jutting from it. Over this outfit I wear studded leather armor which looks quite new. Also I wear a silver pendant with a symbol that looks like a trident with prongs like the letter "N." This same symbol gleams from the silver signet ring on my forefinger. At my hip rests a rapier and a crossbow dangles from my shoulder. At my back is a full pack from which protrudes the neck of a mandolin. As I enter I stop and look around at the patrons and make brief eye contact with each one. Then I give a slight nod and flash a smile and I take a seat at a table by myself. I remove the mandolin from my bag and begin to tinker with it, tuning it and playing it softly. I lay a gold coin on the table and nod to Johns. "Beer, please," I say with a wan smile. I would like to have a few beers and relax for a moment while I visually browse the patronage and strum a few chords. If any approach me I will be congenial. Otherwise I will soon begin to make my way around the Pub making small talk with various folk in an effort to Gather Information, as per the skill (I have a +6 mod.)
lanthric Posted: Jul 19 2005, 08:39 AM
As its that time of night again, an average height and slim looking individual enters the bar, wearing a dark green set of clothing and a backpack. The short sword haning from the belt of the individual looks more out of place than anything that could be considered a challenge.
Walking up to the bar, he motions for Johns. "Hello again Johns, I hope the night is treating you well with advertisement all around town. I'll have the usual and would like to start a tab." He places a gold piece on the bar, grabs a couple pints and starts to mingle with the other regulars.
Upon hearing anything of interest from the patrons, they are rewarded with a free pint of ale.
chadmeister Posted: Jul 19 2005, 09:14 AM
The young man holds up a gold coin for Johns and smiles. "A tab will be fine," he leans against the bar and sips the beer. "Even better, then. Get to draw all these in with someone else's money. Good of the mayor, I'd say."
He turns to look at the two other new comers, and brushes down his shirt self consciously. "Good day, sirs. My name is Drosten, I take it you've been drawn here for the same purpose as I?" He smiles broadly and adds, "Nice hat."
mystic Posted: Jul 19 2005, 10:04 AM
To the man with the hat :
John eyes the color of your coin and raises an eyebrow. With a smile however, he happily serves up your drinks.
You drink a couple pints down and it seems to loosen you up a bit. As you walk around, you see that most individuals are eager to talk to you and hear what you have to say. You learn that most people are here to see the show and learn what gossip they can. The dwarf and human seem to be earnest in actually becoming one of the "top 10" and appear well equipped to do so. Nobody seems to know the real reason that you are all here, and that may disturb you. (As the skill implies, you spend two gold and some time accomplishing this task).
To the man with the shortsword:
Johns nods to you with a slight raising of an eyebrow. "The as were gud I guess," says Johns as he eyes the second gold coin of the night. "I dinnah think mah gains wud be gud, but you nevah know wot tips the nah mah bring," he continues with a smile. "The pints are 5 copper tonight mah friend. I will see that you and your friends are well kept if ya kin," he finishes as he fills a mug. As you move about the bar, talking to the others, you quickly realize that the man in the hat has a good fence going hisself. Never the less, there are relationships to groom and maintain and you do your own information search. Your search is not very fruitful and you learn only that most here are sheep and not adventurers. (again, two gold and some time)
To the man with the axe:
"You mah be raht. It's nice to got the finer gentlemen in har, do ya kin?" says Johns in his rhetorically inquisitive tone. Seeing the gold he happily brings you a pint before you finish the first. "Forgive mah for making yah display coin, it obviously wasn't needed fah you, sai," he says as he plops down the second pint.
To All
Its not long before the man with the shortsword and the man in the hat finally come eye to eye to swap information, lead each other astray, create a genuine friendship, or do whatever it is that two gentlemen of your persuasion would need to do in this situation. Just as you're about to do so, Drosten (the man with the axe) walks up and introduces himself.
chadmeister Posted: Jul 19 2005, 12:43 PM
lanthric Posted: Jul 19 2005, 01:34 PM
"My name is Thadius and a guide for the city. The next round is on me. Are you two here for the flyer? Very strange to have the meeting here, but anywhere with ale is as good as the next. Are you two new to the city?"
When times comes I'll grab the next round.
grimwulf Posted: Jul 19 2005, 03:45 PM
The door opens and I step into the room with a flourish of my Black cloak. I wear a white robe with a blood red sash at my waist. Underneath the cloak is a large dagger and a light crossbow at my hip, as well as 10 bolts. The crossbow looks brand new, as the finish on the wood isn't even worn. The staff I carry, however, is a well worn and finely carved piece, but sturdy and strong. It matches my 5' 9, average build frame quite well.
Underneath the hood of my cloak, I smile as I survey the rabble that has assembled, knowing that my heritage and connections make me superior to most here. Nodding to the black-robed figure, I push back the hood of my cloak, revealing long reddish-brown hair with a finely-made silk band around my head, keeping my hair out of my face. The hair is well-groomed and spills down onto my shoulders. I stroke my full beard thoughtfully as I survey the scene, smiling at any who have power or prestige by the looks of them.
Realizing that I'm blocking the door, and not wishing to be touched by the commoners, I step fully into the bar and approach the man in the black robe. "Good day, sir. My guild has sent me to join your operation, if you would have me. They would like to help you keep an eye on the mercenaries you are about to hire. However, I must say I would love to be hired for my abilities, and not just my connections. Here are my papers from the guild," as I wave papers with official-looking seals on them.
"I am known as Mowrey, and I am a speaker with spirits, an interpreter of dreams, and a communer with the dead. I seek to please His Mayorship with my service." I bow to the man in the black robe as appropriately as I can guage his level of prestige, using my skill in Diplomacy (+6) to impress and also use proper etiquette.
Looking around the room, I notice some of the other patrons. "My, what a dreadful outfit you wear. A bard, is it? How droll. Commoners are so easily entertained. Still, bards have their uses on the battlefield as well, or so I'm told. Even though you practice the lesser Arcane, I'm sure we can discuss matters both magical and scientific. I'm quite studied in the lore of demons, devils, angels, and magic myself. And you?"
mystic Posted: Jul 19 2005, 05:01 PM
The commoners move out of your way as you enter. The man in the black robe smiles as you bow and wave your papers. He speaks softly, but with confidence. "Well met Mowrey. I'm not Mayor yet, but we might make a run eh? The man does his business in strange places, that's for sure." As he watches you look around and notice the man in the hat he says, "I'm sure he will not pass up your offer however." The black robed man smiles as you walk away and he watches as you engage the others.
chadmeister Posted: Jul 19 2005, 07:39 PM
Drosten nods to Thadius, "Thank you for the drinks, should pass the time while we wait to see what the mayor has in store here. I've never heard of something like this taking place around this part of town, but I haven't been here that long. Lived out in the country till a few months ago." He takes another sip of his drink. "Sad times," he adds.
As Mowrey addresses the room, Drosten remarks, "I notice I am perhaps a bit underdressed. But I didn't know what this contest had in store. I thought it best to wear something practical. I prefer to keep my pretty things pretty."
lanthric Posted: Jul 19 2005, 08:49 PM
"Indeed it is sad time, makes good company and drinks even more valuable. As to the dress of others around here, just shows that they've spent too much time indoors out of the elements. The better looking the clothes the quicker they fall apart. Not to mention the easier it is to spot in a crowd. A prime target." I walk to the bar to get the next round, and bring them back to continue to watch the crowd.
thepondfool Posted: Jul 20 2005, 12:16 AM
To Thadeus: "Yes, I am new to the city. I am Nelg Notpit, a humbly talented Lay Man from Layland. I am here to sing Lays great and small, and to learn new Lays and I have come to this pub in particular to get Layed. By this I mean that I intend to participate in what promises to be the makings of a great Lay. Well, then, enough Lay talk. Well met!"
To Mowrey: "Somewhat less than well met, my insulting friend. However I will overlook it in the interest of camraderie and since you are apparantely oblivious to your pompous bufoonery. Anylay, to answer you properly, I am a novice in the lesser arcane and my well of knowledge of many kinds has just began to be filled. I would love and be honored to converse with you further on matters cosmic, scientific, and such." (I cast Magic Missile on him...just kidding.) I continue to converse with everybody and happily play any Lays people may want to hear and wait for more to develop. (Shaun, I have 15 gp now, after the info expense.)
grimwulf Posted: Jul 20 2005, 02:38 AM
"Ah, but I digress. I don't drink, but thank you kindly for the offer. Alcohol clouds the mind, which is fine for a barbarian or cleric, but I must keep my wits about me to effectively conjure forth the powers of the spirits and the dead. One mistake with them would be less than pleasant for all in the area, I can assure you."
"But what say you, Nelg, on the invasion of the demons in this realm? Do you not agree that containment and control of the demons using arcane traps would be the best policy, rather than banishment and violent opposition such as many of the holy class insist?"
I carry on discussing such things with whomever will listen, making sure to try and not use large words to offend people again. I try to pick up on some of the commoners' slang as well, and try to incorporate that into my language as we chat.
satanpond Posted: Jul 20 2005, 02:43 PM
At this point, there is a loud disturbance that takes place near the door. "Next time I won't just push ya if yer in me way. I'll be haven to pull me durned axe out of yur thick skull" I say gruffly as I push a fat human out of my way. I then make my way quickly to the bar and order an ale.
I am a relatively large Dwarf who stands about four and a half feet tall. My fine chain mail armor is noticable beneath my tunic and long, scraggely, black beard. I carry a large war axe and have a large shield strapped over my back that is emblazoned with a hammer standard. I am not currently wearing a helm which makes my dirty black hair even more noticable. I walk with an angry demeanor and if you get very close, you would notice that I smell badly.
thepondfool Posted: Jul 20 2005, 05:18 PM
TO MOWREY: "Well, then, there, now, Mr. Povitch, Sir, I accept your condescending apology, and am glad to meet one as brilliant as thee. In answer to you demon qeurry let me say this; I am not very knowledgable about such things yet, and perhaps you are right, however it would seem to me that efforts to contain and control demons are fraught with more peril than simply fighting them or banishing them. Have you not heard "The Lay of Elbryan?" At this point I break into song and perform this Lay for Mowrey and any who will listen. (My perform mod is +8)
grimwulf Posted: Jul 20 2005, 05:32 PM
(Staying away from the stinky dwarf and his lice-ridden beard) A fine tune, and I'll have you know I delight in all manifestations of the terpsichorean muse, despite your song's few and relatively minor factual errors. I suppose I have heard many arguments that state that using the demons to fight the invading demons makes logical sense to me. Why destroy all of them when we can force some of them to work *for* us, sacrificing *their* life-essence to protect us from their own kind? It makes sense to me.
"So who else is here to inquire into the mayor's bid for service? While I have some amusement from the peasant passtimes enacted here, I would like to 'get this show on the road,' as I heard our friend Drosten say...is that the right expression Drosten? Ah, I thought so. Did not the mayor's post specify ten individuals should apply? And yet I count but five or six here that look to have any merit in the skills and ablities required for the hardships of mercenary work. So few! I would think the promise of 10 pieces of the city's fine gold would inspire more impoverished adventurers to take up the sword or staff or bow or what have you."
chadmeister Posted: Jul 20 2005, 06:17 PM
I look Mowrey over, "Actually, I cannot recall having used that phrase. But I was expecting more than this. If this opportunity is for the 'Top 10', so I would think there would be quite a few more than 10, even. I'd hoped for a bit of a challenge."
lanthric Posted: Jul 20 2005, 06:45 PM
"Maybe some of the others were scared off by such finely dressed people in robes. And as for all the demon talk, although I admit to little knowledge in the subject, most folk are easily scared off by such talk. Perhaps this is why there are so few showing, then again there is always time for more to make their apperance. The whole late show for all others to see."
Continue to look around and listen to the conversations.
mystic Posted: Jul 20 2005, 08:08 PM
When Nelg breaks into song, he does so with seriousness. The commoners all come to touch him and his mandolin and beg him for more song. Some break out in tears. Just from this single song he earns 6 silver pieces. The dwarf and human sitting at the table look at each other in surprise.
Johns walks over and says, "If you're looking for some coin without putting your life in danger, I have some connections I can get you in contact with. That music will certainly bring you far in the finer walks of life."
The performance classifies as memorable, and surely nobody in this pub will forget the bard in the near future.
mystic Posted: Jul 20 2005, 08:34 PM
Shortly after Nelg finishes his songs, and the adventurers are getting well acquainted with one another, two men in polished, highly shined, and hardly dented breastplate enter the pub. They are wearing the symbols of a cannon laid upon red. One pulls a paper and reads, "All ye who wish to answer the posting, step into the street." With that, the two step out of the pub and back into the street.
The pub empties quite quickly out into the street. The two guards in breastplate flank the door to either side. In the street, there are crowds of people standing just outside of hastily drawn chalk marks in the street. These lines are to keep the "citizens" from being hurt in any way. Inside the square, there are a total of twelve men. Seven stand closer to the inn and are of little higher status than the unarmed commoners in the bar. These rough and dirty indivduals are wearing a congolmeration of weapons, armors and robes. The other five individuals are standing inside three separate chalk marked squares within the 'main' square that are well separated from one another.
In one square stands a combat dummy made of wood. Beside the dummy is a large 6'3" 200 lb human in breast plate. In another square, stands another human in simple robes. He seems to be waiting patiently. The robed man is pale and frail, 5'6, 110lbs, but his eyes seem almost like points of fire. In the third and final square stand the last two individuals, one much shorter than the others. In dark cloaks over dark leather, they wait patiently with rapiers out and drawn. As you look more closely, the shorter one appears to be a halfling. The other wears a hood, hiding his facial features.
The fifth individual stands relatively close to the chalk markings close to the inn. He wears the cannon symbol and has several other markings along with it. He motions his hands for everyone to quiet down before he makes a speech to those from the pub. "If you're willing to risk your life, stay within these chalked lines. Otherwise, get behind the chalk line. NOW FOOLS. Only those with an ounce of bravery need stand close." At this, many of the half-drunken pub-goers flee for the safety of the chalk line. Some fall and push each other along the way.
"There is gold only enough for 10 and only 10 will go. When they die, I may be back for the rest of you. As for now, we need to pick the best. The skills we desire are the skills any adventurer would want in his troupe. Listen carefully and watch closely. Pick your skill and form a line outside the cirlce of your preference! You have one chance and one chance only. This is not a party and the mayor waits!"
"Magic, Arcane or Divine!" he says and points to the pale, frail man in a circle.
"Strength of Arms!" he says and points towards the large human the combat dummy.
"Stealth!" he says and lastly points towards the halfling and the hooded human.
The dwarf is one of the first to react to the mans loud orders. He begins walking slowly but deliberately toward the robed circle. The human beside him follows in the same general direction.
Three of the rag-tag men head towards the combat dummy. Another three towards the halfling and hooded human. A last steps towards the magic circle.
All of this happens simultaneously and without great speed. A normal walk will get you to the circles before others get there. [i.e. pick your place in line as you will ]
grimwulf Posted: Jul 20 2005, 09:56 PM
Curious as to what will transpire next, I get in the magic line after the black robed human from the bar, but before the commoner. Studying the "enemy," I quickly review the spells I have memorized, and engage in an internal dialog:
"Hrm, Apparition of Servitude (Unseen Servant), while eternally useful, might not serve here, but would be good to keep in mind. Spirit Sleep (Sleep) is always an option...but if he's powerful at all, he won't be affected in the slightest. That leaves Ghostly Manifestation (Cause Fear). Then again, I somewhat doubt this wizard would risk a spell being cast on him...what if I was a very experienced practicioner of the arts, he could be killed! This must be some other kind of test, rather than a magic duel. Either way, I don't think the cantrips will get me the job..."
As I enter, I pay keen attention to what transpires with the black robed human....
lanthric Posted: Jul 20 2005, 10:32 PM
As i slowly move towards the chalk i ask. "You bard, which might be your skill?"
More out of interest just to see if I can make the group than out of the desire to go off adventuring to far off lands, i slowly make my way to the stealth area, allowing a couple people to jump ahead. I decide to atleast wait and see what others are asked to do before jumping in to be the first person. (I'll go third in line if possible, or around there.)
chadmeister Posted: Jul 20 2005, 11:18 PM
With a shrug, I move toward the first ring, with the combat dummy, but without great haste, willing to let the others arrive first. I look over the other men approaching the ring and offer a smile. "Something to be said for the straightforward way of approaching things, wouldn't he say?" I ask them, then prepare a last minute check on my weapons
thepondfool Posted: Jul 21 2005, 12:41 AM
TO LANTHRIC: "What's my skill? I don't know. That's what I'm here to discover. Good luck, friend!" I stride toward the "stealth" circle, using my Improved Initiative in an effort to be first...for whatever. In my heart I utter a prayer to Vartel to aid me in this endeavor.
mystic Posted: Jul 21 2005, 09:11 AM
"Of course, I had no doubt you would be here," says the black robed man as he gives a look slightly behind you, but you don't catch any innuendo. The heavy mailed dwarf stands before him and looks back to examine the line.
mystic Posted: Jul 21 2005, 09:20 AM
The dirty commoner in front of you says simply, "SMASH AND KILL." In fact, you think that might be the limits of his vocabulary as he smiles a toothless smile at you. He is wearing breastplate that looks like it wouldn't protect any blows at all. You see a heavy two handed pike lieing over his shoulder. He stands only 5'8", but he's built like a dwarf.
The man in front looks back at you but don't see fit to comment. The human in the front of the line wears tattered studded leather and carries a shield and scimitar. The shield has seen better days, but the scimitar is an obvious anomaly among his items. Doubtfully of any exquisite quality, it far outshines his other items.
Next we come to the human, second in line. His clothes are certainly tattered, but the studded leather HE wears might actually block a blow or two before it falls apart. As he awaits what happens to those in front of him, he pulls a longsword and a shortsword. Not entirely graceful with the two, you imagine he's had some training as he hasn't managed to cut himself or anyone else yet. When you speak he responds, "Sometimes what appears to be the straightforward approach, isn't straightforward at all." With that he steps back in line to whisper to you. " How's your aim with that bow? I don't know what's coming, but maybe we can surprise them with some flashy teamwork."
mystic Posted: Jul 21 2005, 09:22 AM
As others see you make a bolt for the circle, they pick up their pace. You easily outrun them and stride right on up to the circle. Seconds later, the rest of the party see the halfling and the bard walk into an alley and out of view. Perhaps a half minute later (for those still watching, only the halfling steps out).
chadmeister Posted: Jul 21 2005, 10:02 AM
"I've been known to hit a thing or two, if I try." I whisper, modestly. "Wouldn't turn down an ally here if its appropriate for the trial, but let's see what's in store."
lanthric Posted: Jul 21 2005, 11:25 AM
I stand around and watch the other contenstants to see the strongest candidates around, waiting for my turn.
satanpond Posted: Jul 21 2005, 12:40 PM
I try to get to the Large Human first- I will push others out of my way in this attempt. I pull my war axe and shield from my back on the way.
"Out of my way, ye cowards!!! I'LL show ye how it's done!" I scream as I make my approach.
mystic Posted: Jul 21 2005, 01:05 PM
The circle of Magic.
The robed figure talks with the armored dwarf briefly. "DORADIN," he screams and falls into a prayer. He pulls out a holy symbol and begins chanting at the ground. When finished, he picks up three normal looking pebbles. Then, he tosses the pebbled one by one into the wall nearby. They seem to explode with an inner fury when they hit. The pale and frail human nods to the dwarf, who steps out of the circle. Next, the robed human from the bar steps up and begins talking to the circle master. Shortly after, the robed human utters some enchantments and a blue bolt fires from his finger tips into the wall. As Mowrey steps forward, the wizard says to him, "Guilded? What circle have you obtained? Greater than 0, I hope? For a 0th circle wizard will be nigh useless. "
The circle of Stealth.
The second man disappears into the alley with the halfling as well, and does not return. As Lanthric approaches, the halfling says, "What stealth do you have? What would you like to demonstrate?"
The circle of Strength.
The circle master here smiles as the dwarf charismatically forces himself to the front. The commoners easily avoid him. This 6'3" human stands like a giant before dwarf and dummy. "Skill with the axe then?" asks the human simply in a deep and rumbling voice.
lanthric Posted: Jul 21 2005, 03:34 PM
"Not seen not heard." I step into the alley way trying to hide against a near by wall and sneak, after which i pull out a dagger, not certian as to what they are trying to do.
satanpond Posted: Jul 21 2005, 06:21 PM
"Whatever you say, ya over-grown Orc-Kisser" I state mockingly as I step in and square up for melee combat.
chadmeister Posted: Jul 21 2005, 09:11 PM
I stand back and watch the show as the dwarf foams at the mouth. "It's good to see an artist at work."
mystic Posted: Jul 21 2005, 10:40 PM
"Show me 18 seconds of solid work against the dummy," says the Strengthmaster. Almost as an afterthought he says, " You tree hugging star gazing overgrown cave monkey."
mystic Posted: Jul 21 2005, 10:50 PM
As Lanthric slips into the alley:
You notice Nelg hiding behind some crates. He doesn't have any weapons but he is hiding well. The commoner is doing little better. He is at the farthest end of the tunnel, lying down like a beggar amongst some rubble. Not really hiding, but trying to fit in. You notice he does have a rugged dagger slightly underneath him.
There is another set of crates on the other side of the tunnel but they don't look like they'd provide enough cover to hide. The rough tops on the left (over the bard) are twenty feet. On the other side they reach up to 30 feet. There are small windows up and down on both sides, but no normal being could fit through them.
"12 seconds," the halfling yells down the hallway. "Get your craft on," he says as he looks at Lanthric.
lanthric Posted: Jul 21 2005, 11:02 PM
As i move into the alley i move away slightly from where the halfling spotted me to hide again, slowly keeping all those in sight that i have seen already. I think to myself although the commoner had a knife out i'm not so concerned, or by that of the bard. I keep my eye on the halfling however as i look around. When i'm a away from where the halfling last talked towards me i hunker down and watch Nelg and the halfing. *while trying to sneak silently if not specifically said*
lanthric Posted: Jul 21 2005, 11:11 PM
Noticing the bard is hiding behind the only cover, i slowly move over towards him to get behind the crates.
grimwulf Posted: Jul 21 2005, 11:18 PM
Smiling, I nod to the tester. Weaving back and forth I chant:
"Spirits of the dead, come forth and give sweet death-like slumber to these wretched mortals...they crave the peace of the dead!"
At this point I gesticulate subtly and speak unintelligible words (to most anyway) in rapid succession. Then I turn around and face the people waiting in the Rogue's line. Pointing at them, I cast Spirit Sleep on the center of them.
I say to their nearby comrades "go ahead and slap them in the face, see that they do not wake! They have entered the realm of the dead in their sleep, and cannot be 'roused. But note that in a short time they are able to be brought back from their dark dreams."
mystic Posted: Jul 21 2005, 11:30 PM
Two commoners remain in the rogue line and immediately fall to the ground. The hooded man's head moves as if looking to the magic cricle master. The pale/frail magicmaster gives a nod and the hooded man moves to the two commoners. With two fingers, the hooded humanoid pokes one of the commoners in the throat. With a gurgle the commoner clutches his throat and rolls on the ground, slowly wakening. Seconds later, the hooded humanoid gives the second commoner a stiff slap. This also brings the poor helpless guy around.
Magicmaster watches all of this with interest. "Good, first circle at least. You may need to practice your spellcraft a bit however," says the robed man.
With that he motions you towards the dwarf and human who have already taken their test. The last commoner approaches and manages to cast a prestidigitation which annoys the master but not much more. With a disapproving eye brow the magicmaster shakes his head and moves to the man who originally spoke outside. The man with the symbol of a cannon on red. He stands beside the man and watches the goings on of the others.
satanpond Posted: Jul 22 2005, 02:26 PM
To the Stregthmaster:
"Who you callen a tree hugger" I sneer, "I only do my huggin with little hairy women."
At this point I go at the dummy malicously in attempt to take it down. I will continue to thrash it until someone physcially restrains me.
mystic Posted: Jul 22 2005, 06:14 PM
After 18 seconds of display, the Strength Master says, "Enough," and continues to watch in amusement as the dwarf lays into the dummy, taking off strips of wood as he slams his axe repeatedly into the dummy in critical spots. With his next swing, the dwarf takes one of the dummy's arms completely off. With that, the master screams "ENOUGH!" and pushes the dwarf away from the dummy. He looks at the dwarf with a raised eyebrow, but not in a challenging way. "Next!" he yells as "SMASH AND KILL" steps up to the plate.
He looks to the master in patience and the master gives him a nod. At that he begins to lay into the dummy.
The halfling stealth master walks into the alley and begins to look around. After walking up and down the alley he gets to the entrance of the alleyway. He says simply, "Okay, everybody up and out. We have more who would practice their craft today."
With that, Nelg and the other commoner walk out of the alley and stand to the side of the alleyway, looking in curiously.
In the next few moments other two commoners will begin to walk towards the entrance after speaking briefly to the halfling.
lanthric Posted: Jul 22 2005, 06:37 PM
I try to continue to hide while working my way down towards the one theif that dissappeard while walking in with the halfling. (assuming he is one of the judges as well.)
chadmeister Posted: Jul 22 2005, 07:50 PM
I whisper to the man beside me, "So you think we both have at the dummy at once? I can put a lot of arrows in a stationary target, even with you moving up next to it. Best way to take down opponents, concentrate your strength."
mystic Posted: Jul 22 2005, 08:21 PM
"Just a thought. The name's Ralt," he says and holds his hand out for a warriors' handshake to Drosten.
As Ralt and Drosten chat, "SMAsh AND KILL" finishes his drill. One of the legs dangles dangerously but stays attached. "SMASH AND KILL"'s face forces its way into a pout. The pout looks more like a snarl and would scare away children, but it is what it is.
chadmeister Posted: Jul 22 2005, 08:51 PM
I take Ralt's hand. "Drosten," I say. "I think we can show them a bit more than pure brute strength. Judge might enjoy the change of pace."
lanthric Posted: Jul 23 2005, 08:36 PM
I leave the alley way to see how the rest of the groups are doing.
mystic Posted: Jul 23 2005, 11:26 PM
At last Ralt pulls his weapons and gives a smirk and a nod to the strength master. Ralt appears to be smaller than the previous two warriors, but as he swings, you can see him put his entire weight behind the force of the blow.
chadmeister Posted: Jul 23 2005, 11:53 PM
As Ralt begins his attack, a take a step to the side to get him out of immediate line of fire, Then, taking up my bow I send a hail of arrows into the dummy, coordinating with Ralt's movements.
mystic Posted: Jul 24 2005, 02:05 AM
As Ralt brings his longsword crashing into the dummy, his shortsword follows almost immediately. The force of the blow resounds with a loud smack sound. Almost immediately, Drosten fires two arrows. the first arrow sticks into the dummies hanging arm and the second lands solidly in its head, peeling off large amounts of wood.
Trying to ignore the ranged weapons so close, Ralt slams into the dummy yet again, trying to concentrate on the dangling arm. His shortsword connects cleanly and leaves the arm teetering and ripping itself from the dummy. His longsword slams with his entire weight into the dummies leg, peeling off small bits of wood. Drosten's arrows slam in immediately. The first sticking solidly into the dummies head, doing little to no obvious damage. The second however peels a good portion of its would-be face from the head's surface.
In the third round, Ralt slams his longsword smashing into the dummy. The blow is glancing and does little damage to the wood, even with Ralt's weight behind it. The short sword fares a little better and slices bits off the dummy's face. As Drosten's arrows slam in, one bounces harmlessly off the object's surface and the last plants itself deep in the dummy's chest, peeling off bits of wood.
When all is over, the strength master smiles and nods at the two to step away with the others.
The last commoner fighter faces a badly battered dummy. He pulls his special scimitar and shield. As he approaches the dummy, its obvious that he has no proficiency in the weapon he's using. Perhaps in time. He manages to hit the dummy three times, but with no real damage.
Meanwhile, the stealth master finished conducting the test of the final two commoners.
With all of his talk, the fifth individual and overall master was a bit overlooked. Among his shiny half-plate are the markings of the cannon, as you saw previously. In black geometric symbols (pentagons and stars), laced with gold, are several more markings on the sleeves of his armor. He stands around 5'10" and is fairly bulky. A shield rests along his back, along with a two handed greatsword. As everyone finishes he yells, "Those still willing to risk their lives, should line up in the center of the square."
After everyone gets to the center, he begins pointing to members and telling them to go out. Two of the commoner rogues say goodbye, as he points to them. The last is a short human wearing a black cloak and black leather. Leaving 12 left. Next, he points at the 0th circle wizard, who growls and walks grumpily out of the square. Finally, he tosses the scimitar wielding commoner fighter out of the group of 10.
"The rest of you need to form two groups. Make sure that one person from each skill is in your group. We meet here at daybreak. Your gold would be waiting. As well as the mayor." says the man in the breastplate. As an after thought he looks over to the warriors who made the cut and says , " And make sure SMASH AND KILL and dwarf-boy don't get put in the same group. " A hint of a smile can be seen on his face as he looks at them. With a quirk in his smile he looks at Ralt and Drosten with an obvious apology.
The crowd seems excited but less than sated at this mundane practice of arts. They begin to scatter grumpily. The masters begin to pick up their gear and head out themselves.
lanthric Posted: Jul 24 2005, 10:48 AM
I walk up to Drosten and his partner. "Quite a show Drosten. It appears that you guys got to put on a little more interesting show than us in the alley. We might as well pair up now while the pickings are good? Mind if i join you for tomorrow? My name is Thadius" I say as i put my hand out the dual wielding warrior.
chadmeister Posted: Jul 24 2005, 11:24 AM
Drosten nods, "Of course, I didn't see what you guys were doing in the alley. And still no word of what they're planning for us tommorow. I just hope we haven't signed up to be fed to a dragon or something."
lanthric Posted: Jul 24 2005, 11:42 AM
I say, "Hell we can out run those frail magic users." As i wink to the pair. "Thats all we really need to do."
chadmeister Posted: Jul 25 2005, 12:41 AM
"Yes, I imagine so," I smile at Thadius, "Now speaking of mages, we'll need one of those as well. Which should we invite, do you think?"
thepondfool Posted: Jul 25 2005, 01:17 AM
I approach Hugo Hammerhand. "Well met, my berserk friend! Although I could not see your display I could sure hear it and I was impressed with your ferocity! You remind me of the dwarven hero Bruno Battlehammer of the renown 'Lay of Icewind Dale.' I would feel much safer if you were among my travelling companions. I could entertain you with Lays of your folk in your own tongue and I have many other uses as well. What say ye?"
lanthric Posted: Jul 25 2005, 08:05 AM
"One's as good as the next i suppose. It seems we have two choices. The man in white, the guy with the dwarf. It appears as the white robed mage will be our best bet. Perhaps the bard to make the group five as well? Although if i have to hear the word Lay one time, I think I'll cut my ears off." I watch as the crowd continues to leave, "Perhaps we should grab them and discuss the issue at hand over food."
grimwulf Posted: Jul 25 2005, 11:37 AM
I approach the middle of the two groups forming (Bard & Dwarf, archer & dual-wielder & rogue), and size them up. I point to the dual-wielder. "You scare me," I say with concern. "You stand in the line of fire of a complete stranger, and you don't know how well he shoots the bow. Just to show off in a practice session, you could easily have got your back riddled full of arrow holes, and on a gamble. You're just lucky this one," I nod at the archer, "was humble in his assessment, or you'd be begging that priest over there for a healing spell with not much to pay the bill, I'd guess. Lucky for you, he's got some good skill, timing, and concern for your safety."
I continue to consider which group to offer my skills to.
chadmeister Posted: Jul 25 2005, 11:49 AM
"Either that, or I was just lucky," I add. "But it's a trust he'll need to build fast anyway, if we're to work together. I don't always have the luxury of picking targets that aren't already occuppied, but I've trained extensively on how not to hit my comrades."
grimwulf Posted: Jul 25 2005, 12:27 PM
"Well that is obvious from your performance. However, I think it's a fool who trusts his life to a stranger on a whim, but by all means, it's your life," I wave towards the dual wielder, "so feel free. I merely am pointing out the insanity of it."
"Now, from watching that little bit of a show, friend Archer, I would say that you're not likely to hit people. And considering my low level of skill in the martial arts, I'd say, if someone is trying to cleave my head, feel free to shoot an arrow past me any time." I smile and give a slight bow to the archer.
lanthric Posted: Jul 25 2005, 01:44 PM
Bored with the banter around me. I start to hum a tune to myself. I look around at my surroundings and:
If the target dummy is still out there, I try to pull the arrows out of the wood as best i can to save the entire arrows, or atleast get the arrow heads out.
B) Nothing else to do I excuse myself to go find an inn room for the night.
mystic Posted: Jul 25 2005, 05:01 PM
Ralts aura of camraderie fades as Mowrey continues to speak. Glaring as the wizard finishes his last sentence, he seems to be visibly restraining himself. Without a word, he walks off and begins speaking with the priest in low tones. Around him stands also the rogue in black leather.
mystic Posted: Jul 25 2005, 05:12 PM
The dummy is still indeed out there. As you inspect it for arrows which might be in tact, you find none. The old addage comes to you then, "Heaven awaits the arrow which flies true." Knowing that these 6 arrows are useless unless repaired (and indeed, its practically the same cost as buying new), you give up on the idea of recovering any.
"SMASH AND KILL" watches as you inspect the dummy and examine the arrows. As you look at the first arrow he says, "smash and kill?" in a questioning town, looking at the arrowhead.
mystic Posted: Jul 25 2005, 05:13 PM
As everyone begins to gather around a little, the dwarven priest speaks to the entire group. "As I see it, we have the following:
magic circle: dwarf priest, human arcane in group 1.
Mowrey by default in group 2
stealth circle: shorter human in black leather in group 1.
Nelg, Lanthric default into group 2
strength circle: Ralt in group 1.
Drosten by default in group 2.
Lastly, we must decide to split 'Smash and Kill' and the other Dwarf amongst us. We'll take 'Smash and Kill' if its all the same. " As if things have been decided, he nods toward Johns and beckons everyone with his hands towards the inn. "I'll buy my groups' first round," he says and they cheer and follow him towards the inn and Johns.
chadmeister Posted: Jul 25 2005, 05:46 PM
I shake my head at Mowrey as Ralt leaves, then size up the dwarf instead. "At least we got one who knows more than three words. You use that axe well, do you know when NOT to use it?"
lanthric Posted: Jul 25 2005, 06:16 PM
"Those that speak loudest are usually the ones that should be the quietest." Well atleast we have our groups."
lanthric Posted: Jul 25 2005, 09:56 PM
I head to the inn. "Well all we might as well all go get some food, drink and sleep."
satanpond Posted: Jul 25 2005, 11:02 PM
As I come out of my intense battlerage, I respond to the bard Nelg:
"I have always liked ye loud music types. The name is Hugo Hammerhand. I wouldn't mind your company to sooth the boring times when I aint swingen me axe. Well met"
I accompany the bard when he leaves for the inn.
thepondfool Posted: Jul 25 2005, 11:13 PM
TO HUGO HAMMERHAND:
"Most excellent, my strong friend! May our friendship and deeds be worthy of a great big fat Lay!
TO MOWREY: "Are we in the same group, my ingenious friend? I hope so. I anticipate with eagerness the discussions and exploits we shall have. Mayhap you can teach me some of the Lays of the higher arcane.
With that I make for the inn and along the way I sing softly the Lay of van Goeh.