Mancini gathers an unlikely crew to see what is holding up the kobolds from cleaning Lamont DuClair's extensive cellars.

Mancini gathered his crew in a guild conference room before they departed. "Before we begin, I would like to start out by saying that the guild is in a state of flux. I've been working here for a long time, behind the scenes, in a logistical capacity, and what I've seen... it isn't good. It isn't sustainable. The factions within the guild don't work together nearly well enough, and there's far too much animosity. This not only leaves us weaker to the other powers of the city, but makes things more dangerous for you, the rank and file."

"Our expedition will require discretion on your part. What we learn must be tightly controlled. You may end up having to keep secrets from the other guild faction leaders. This is... politics... and if you don't wish to involve yourselves, you may wish to step away. Are you all willing to proceed?"

ooc: In other words there may be aspects of espionage and inter-guild politics, so if that's not fun for you this is an IC reason to back out.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:01, Sat 25 Mar 2017.

Mancini's bodyguard Norman held the door open for any who chose to depart.

Assuming Oly is here...   He just shrugs.

In reply to Oly (msg # 4):

A small few arrives as the speach concludes.

"I had some kobold friends say there were problems here. They asked me to come along to ensure it was safe for them to return once you are finished. That Ok?"

[Private to GM: Can I assume that she has spoken to the Kobolds, as written. That ties in her being part of the team, but can I ask what information they might have given her?]

"You're a member of the guild, Aoife. You are free to accompany us as a full member of the expedition. Though I am curious as to how the kobolds caught wind of what we're planning. When you have a chance, try to find out who's been talking. But save that for after the briefing."

In reply to Mancini (msg # 6):

"Oh, I am not sure they knew about your trip. They just knew they could not finish their work, so they asked if I would look into it..."

[Private to Mancini: OOC: Winging it a little, GM will have to let me know the details...]

In reply to Aoife (msg # 7):

"I was clearing bowls in the common room when you spoke with Monsieur Du Clair. My brother was working that detail and told me what
happened. Aoife had been ministering to his injuries and I told her."

Mancini nodded to the kobold. "Thank you."

In reply to Mancini (msg # 9):

"If you are going in with armed guards, some of us will accompany you."

In reply to kobold (msg # 10):

"What happened exactly last time to make you leave?"

In reply to Aoife (msg # 11):

The slightly built bluish goblekin shrugs.
"I was not there myself, but the others say that the ogres came through a gate that leads outside one of the lower levels, one that Master Voorland never had keys to. Voorland is the dwarf that installed
the gates securing the main room."

In reply to kobold (msg # 12):

"And they ordered you to leave, or attacked you?"

In reply to Aoife (msg # 13):

"They yelled at my brother and cousins to get out, and threw things
 at them. My brother's arm was damaged when they threw a troll skull at him."
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:20, Mon 27 Mar 2017.

In reply to kobold (msg # 14):

"Any idea of who sent them? Did they mention any names or have any symbols?"

"Could you perhaps go and get one of the kobolds who was actually present to answer questions for us?" Mancini asked the kobold. "And if any can act as guides to this gate the Ogres entered through, they will be fairly compensated for their time. Just have them wait in the hall until our meeting has concluded, thank you."

He turned to Oly and Aoife. "I'll wait until all of the interested have assembled before continuing the briefing, but rest assured that there will be time to reach out to your contacts and perform any other preparatory work you'd like before we embark."

ooc: Since its the weekend I'd like to wait until Monday for any interested players (Hilerno? Ardenas?) to locate themselves here before filling out the roster with NPCs.

"I'm listening."  He addresses the kobold for a moment.

"Do we know for certain whether the ones who yelled and threw things were full blood ogres, or ogrekin?"

"My sources indicate full ogres, but we'll know more once we speak to a witness." Mancini looked meaningfully at the kobold. "Listen. The lot of you. You have all expressed interest in this venture, but I would not ask you to accept the terms until I've laid them out. And I would not expect you to do any preliminary investigation until you've accepted."

"The purpose of the expedition is simple: Remove these ogres from the winecellars and discover their point of entry. Non-violently if possible - ogres are worth more as allies than corpses. Compensation: Shares of whatever goods or treasure are recovered. If the standard guild pay-rate is not met by these shares, additional coin shall be given to make up the difference, providing a guaranteed minimum income for this expedition. That's all fairly standard."

"Other terms. This is not an independent expedition. You are working on my behalf, as an officer of the guild. Don't worry, I'm no autocrat, and have no taste for micromanagement... you are all experts, and I expect you all to know how best to put your talents to use."

ooc: In other words, I'm not your boss, and won't be ordering you around, so don't worry. Just my way of getting around the Rank difference.

"Impress me, and there will be more work and more pay forthcoming. All I ask is that you do not discuss the matter and what we discover with those who were not present, unless of course asked directly by a guildmaster of higher rank than myself."

"There are a few other matters to discuss once those of us who are committed have some privacy. Things you will need to know. But for now, Oly, Aredenas, Aoife... are the terms agreeable?"

ooc: Diplomacy roll made by 6. Not to tell you guys how to respond, but just to note that the character is more compelling than the player.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:58, Mon 27 Mar 2017.

Oly Shrugs again  Zure

In reply to Oly (msg # 19):

"Well, so far, yes. But if the ogres object, do we find out who is behind them of just force them out by brute force?"

"I intend us to investigate the matter thoroughly," Mancini said. "Whether the ogres wandered in on their own, or if there's some other hand guiding their actions. I'll explain further."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:54, Mon 27 Mar 2017.

"I'm in."

Once Norman had escorted the kobold into the hall so that the adventurers were alone in the meeting room, Mancini continued.

"As I mentioned earlier, there are strong divisions growing within the guild. Control of the DuClair's wine cellars as an access into the undercity is a project of Rigo's. DuClair provides us access in exchange for a Madiera contract. We helped him with his troll issues before the treaty with the Eastern Depths treaty was signed. This is, generally, good for the guild."

"The ogre business... most of the city's ogres are from mercenary companies or members of our own guild. The most likely scenario is that these ogres below wandered into the undercity through some undiscovered exit, and then into DuClair's cellar. However, Aoife hit on exactly the possibility we should keep in mind... that these ogres are agents at someone else's behest.

"Rigo is the majority power within the guild, but his control is far from complete. Some want this power for themselves, others may oppose him out of a simple desire that no one man control the power of the guild. Some of the higher ranking members have strong ties to the remnants of the thieves' guild and the various assassin groups, and virtually every other power in Northport has a hand in trying to influence us.

"Olegson, in particular, has cooled towards Rigo with his handling of the orcish matter, and the dwarfs overseeing the kobolds are firmly in his camp. The kobolds themselves have been growing loyal to Zeelzeel Shadowspear on a personal level, but as yet, he is not active in guild politics. Vilgar is another obvious possibility, particularly if these ogres hail from the arena."

Mancini folded his hands. "So. I would advise that we remain open-minded regarding these ogres. Let us hope that they are simple wanderers exploring the undercity rather than a further escalation of guild conflict. All the same, these are dangerous waters we swim in. Be careful whom you speak to. The ogres might even work for Rigo himself, in an effort to wrest control of the warehouse from DuClair outright.

"Any questions before I continue?"

In reply to Mancini (msg # 23):

"No questions here..."

In reply to Mancini (msg # 23):

"okay, so we need to investigate, make friends with ugly ogres and make a profit. Piece of cake. Count me in."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:46, Tue 28 Mar 2017.

"Seems clear enough, at least in terms of our immediate goals.  Politics isn't my favorite thing, but I'm capable of playing either side of fight or talk, at need."

"Some of you have worked together in the past, but some of us haven't. Before we break to take care of preliminary business, let's quickly go around and introduce ourselves and what we're bringing to the table." He nodded his head. "I go by Mancini, and I've been working in guild logistics for almost a decade now. I know it, and the city of Northport, very well, and am well trained in the arts of diplomacy. In addition to being well educated in a number of fields, I am a trained fencer and have connections within the civic government."

In reply to Mancini (msg # 27):



using my best stage booming voice

"I am called Dellas and it is a great pleasure to meet such a fine group of gentlemen..."

looking directly into Aoife eyes and giving me best charming smile

"... and a fair lady"

stepping in the center of room

"Looking at each one of you I'm now certain that I made the right choice joining the Guild. I could not be more lucky to find myself working side by side with such fantastic group."
"I can see that honor, glory and treasures await our future..."

"And what is it you do, Dellas?" Mancini asked.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 29):


"Oh me? Im a hunter of opportunities. My bow and my quiver are always ready... for the ones with enough coins."
"Ah, and Im an amazing dancer too."

Dellas is grinning while raising his left hand over his head and crossing his right arm over his chest

"I am Ardenas, called Barehand.  I'm a native of Northport, but until recently I've paid little attention to politics and such; I was much more interested in my martial arts training.  The recent troubles between the orcs and goblins got my attention, however, and I've had a glimpse of the inner workings of power.

"Honestly, I'm not at all certain I like it, but it seems unavoidable; there are problems that can't be solved by kicking them in the head."

"My notes indicate you have some magical training?"

Hilerno Orison listened attentively, his dark eyes cast downward and weathered brow furrowed. "If welcome, I shall accompany the group," he says. "I'm new to the city -- recently arriving from the mountains across Valdassya."

He pauses. "I'm not sure I understand everything you said in terms of who's working with whom, but it seems that we are not to just kill these ogre or ogrekin, but assess who they work for, what their goals are -- and then perhaps kill them." His hand rests on the pommel of his sword. "That I understand."

In reply to Hilerno Orison (msg # 33):

"whoa, whoa, lets not be so hasty with the killings... didn't you hear the boss saying they are more valuable alive and at our side?"

I'm a zmuggler, bud I god zum zkillz in dhieving  do .. can open lockz an doorz or pick a pocked.

"Yes, sir, I have some limited skill with Movement college magic -- more along the lines of a spell here or there that can enhance my more physical skills.

"My talent is limited, and I'm not highly skilled at any spell -- but if it comes up that only the ability to levitate or walk up a wall will solve a problem, I can get it done.  Once before resting, usually.  I can also open locks with magic, throw things around or launch missiles with much more force than I could with my own arm, and add to my speed or that of an ally for a short time -- but unless there's a supply of paut at hand, magic will tire me quickly, and I lack the ability more broadly talented mages often have to regain energy rapidly."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 36):


"Open locks with Magic??? Very interesting...
Ardenas, I like you already and I have the feeling that we are going to be best friends."

In reply to Dellas (msg # 37):

Aoife is much smaller than most, and does not relish the thought of dancing with giants. She listens to the discussion with interest, though her facial expressions indicate she is clearly also not keen on guild politics.

"What about you, Aiofe?" Mancini asked. "What capabilities do you bring to the party?"

In reply to Mancini (msg # 39):

"I like to keep people and animals healthy, and I can take some animal forms, so please be careful attacking animals. I also have some animal allies...as well as kobold friends."

"Healing..." Mancini wrote that down. "Shapeshifting... animal and kobold allies. Got it.

"We have some time to prepare. Do as you see fit, meet at the warehouse in three hours. Supply yourselves for an extended visit to the undercity. Several days, perhaps. Aoife, see if any of your kobold allies can act as guides to the lands below, and see if any of the eye witnesses can tell us more. Any questions?"
This message was last edited by the player at 01:43, Fri 31 Mar 2017.

You are nod buyin' da food and zduff?

In reply to Mancini (msg # 41):

"Do we have any porters to assist with supplies?"

"If you would like me to provide sandwiches, I will provide sandwiches. No other hirelings, however. The fewer eyes to see, the fewer tongues to wag, the easier it is to control the flow of information. And I am afraid that we're not budgeted for much more than sandwiches."

"Ham and cheese sandwiches," Norman added for emphasis. "Let me know if you want them without the ham."

"If we manage to recruit the ogres, we can quite likely convince them to serve as porters. Another reason to avoid killing them."

In reply to Aoife (msg # 43):
Dellas get down in one knee in front of Aoife

"I can help you milady. A giant like me is very useful to carry stuff around, besides, I'm new to the town and wouldn't know where to find the good prices."

Zum zandwhichez be OK... I guezz we havda ged zum udder zduff do...

In reply to Norman (msg # 45):



"Ham and cheese sandwiches sounds really good. If one of you know any fire spell, you can make my day..."

"Acquire whatever personal gear and supplies you think you will require. Food. Torches. Rope. Get receipts. I will try to arrange for an operational budget, and if successful, will reimburse reasonable purchases." He paused, then repeated that last part. "Reasonable. Purchases. Understand that to mean inexpensive consumables, limited by how much I can acquire."

[Private to GM: Is there a guild treasurer? This is clearly an operation to benefit the guild directly; "guild business," so if it's possible to get operational funds from the guild itself - discretely - Mancini will do so.

If not, he'll go to DuClair and try to get some money for supplies to "end the problem at its source."

Merchant-16 in both cases.]
This message was last edited by the player at 02:11, Fri 31 Mar 2017.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 50):


"Hey boss, do you have a minute?"


Dellas speaks in a low voice, almost a whisper


"Right now my pockets are a little lighter, hell, I have no money at all. Do you think I get some advancement or maybe a credit letter from you so I could buy small things like a rope, a torch, *COF* a sword *COF*, a water bag, etc and etc?   "

This message was last edited by the player at 02:18, Fri 31 Mar 2017.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 50):

Aoife is rather flattered by the giants response. Truth told, she could probably fit comfortably in one of his hands. She draws herself up to her full 17 inches of height and thanks him. She figures he could carry enough rations for her for a month in his pocket.

"I know town. I can do the shopping for you!"

"No ham on my sandwiches, please.  Several days, you say.  I'll need to pick up my backpack, then.  And does anyone know of a vendor who has paut on hand?  Just a dose or two?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 53):

Aoife will offer to guide for all out of Towners. I assume she knows where to find paut...

In reply to Aoife (msg # 54):

Paut can be got from a variety of Alchemists, from Spielgud and Ashbury as well.

OCC Delas, you have a sword, just not a good one.

Mancini leaves and returns twenty minutes later. "I have arranged limited funding for the venture. DuClare has agreed to pay guild rates for one day's labor. That's six silver for each of you. He paid a portion of this up-front."

He counted out four silver coins for Dellas. "These will of course come out of your final share. If any of the rest of you need an advance let me know, and with whatever is left I will purchase group supplies."

ooc: 1 silver = $20, so the pay from DuClare is $120, and Dellas got a $80 advance against that pay.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 56):

Dellas' eyes gleam with the sight of the coins

"I appreciated that boss, I will make good use of it, you will see."

This message was last edited by the player at 17:45, Fri 31 Mar 2017.

Oly heads out to acquire things... food, supplies etc.

Ardenas heads off to see Spielgud about paut, since he's right here in the Guild.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 59):
Ooc
Paut is $120.
Dellas, do you have a price list?

OOC: I'll get two doses, then.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 60):

OOC
I dont have a price list, where can I find it?

OOC: Behold, that which you seek, lies therein. http://plato.d10.is/GURPS_4th_...ndbook-Version_4.pdf
This message was last edited by the player at 14:50, Mon 03 Apr 2017.

In reply to Aoife (msg # 52):


"I thank you milady. I think I will need to buy some good rope and a few things to help me climb walls. Water and food is also important and a Torch of course, otherwise the ogres wont see my hero face and crumble in fear of defeat"


Dellas makes a heroic pose to demonstrate his handsome hero face

OOC:
My full list of items
1 x Rope (1⁄4", 400 lb., 10 yards *) $8 2kg
6 x Rations, Std., Travelers, 1 Day $6  1.5kg
1 x Water Skin, 1 Gal. $10  1kg
1 x Torch $3 1kg
10 x Piton, Climbing $1 0.25kg
1 x Flint $2 0,2kg

In reply to Dellas (msg # 64):

It would behoove you to get a set of, um fine smithing tools... $50. Also, make a will roll or you may end up spending the remaining money on a bit of carousing.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 65):



Oh, I just remind that I also need to find a cheap small hammer. It needs to be real cheap so I can save some money.

17:09, Today: Dellas rolled 16 using 3d6 ((4,6,6)).

ooc: Better not show up drunk after all that carousing.

This message was deleted by the player at 21:29, Mon 03 Apr 2017.

In reply to Dellas (msg # 66):

Something on your list doesn't get bought; the thieves tools (or cheap ones at $20, with -1 on the roll... either needs a streetwise roll to get) or the $10 hammer. At least $10 was spent drinking.
Also, make a carousing roll, you may have picked up rumors...
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:51, Mon 03 Apr 2017.

Hilerno follows the others to various shops, procuring the following:

• Backpack, small, 40lbs capacity, $60 (3 lbs)
• Four (4) torches, $12 (4 lbs)
• Tinder box, $40 (1/2 lb)
• Rope, 1/4", 400lbs., 10 yards, $8 (2 lbs)
• Standard travelers rations, three (3) days, $18 (4 1/2 lbs)
• Waterskin, one gallon, $10 (1 lb)

He will also gladly accept a ham and cheese sandwich. He will dismantle it before eating it when the time comes.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:57, Mon 03 Apr 2017.

In reply to Dellas (msg # 64):

Aoife laughs good naturedly at the massive face.

"I would hide if that face was coming for me. Lets go and get your goods. The money Mancini gave you should cover most of that without a loan, but I will give you $50 for a good smithing tools.."

She will direct him to the market where he can purchase those items.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 69):

19:38, Today: Dellas rolled 11 using 3d6 ((5,2,4)) against  Streetwise 11.

19:45, Today: Dellas rolled 12 using 3d6 ((5,1,6)) against Carousing 10.

OOC: I dont have the Carousing skill, so Im rolling agains my HT, correct?
This message was last edited by the player at 23:47, Mon 03 Apr 2017.

In reply to Aoife (msg # 71):

Dellas bows to Aoife and speaks with an emotive voice:

"I see that your beauty matches your soul. I'm in your debit and I shall replay not only your money, but all your kindness towards me."

In reply to Dellas (msg # 73):

Aoife gives a quick curtsey.

"You are most welcome."

In reply to Dellas (msg # 72):

Whoops, left it off your sheet, added it amd gambling. You heard a rumor while carousing:
"Plenty of people can make a potion or two, but there is this mysterious fellow calls himself The Alchemist, like he was special or something. They say he never forgets a slight."
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:18, Wed 05 Apr 2017.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 75):


"Hey Ardenas, this town is fantastic my friend. I dont remember much about last night, no, I dont have a drinking problem mind you... I met some interesting people like a guy who is married to the mother of his own dead wife. How crazy is that? ... But that is not what I have to tell you."

Dellas is trying hard to remember something
"Oh yes, I heard a rumor about a big shot alchemist called "The Alchemist"... maybe I should call myself "The Archer"... anyway, this The Alchemist guy is some kind of genius-master of potions... my friend told me that"
 
Dellas moves two fingers on each hands up and down
"he never forgets a slight. "
I have no idea what a slight is, but I remember you saying something about looking for a good Paut to buy, maybe you should pay him a visit?"

This message was last edited by the player at 12:04, Wed 05 Apr 2017.

"I don't recall hearing about an alchemist of that stripe, but I trust Spielgud about as much as anyone, and he's convenient to deal with since he keeps an office right here in the Guild."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 77):


"You know what they say: 'A good alchemist is like a girlfriend... you should have more than one'"

Dellas is laughing while elbowing Ardenas repeatedly

In reply to Dellas (msg # 78):

"Hmmph. Not sure this girl likes who you get advice from..."

In reply to Aoife (msg # 79):

Dellas is visible embarrassed when he realizes that Aoife was listening to his dirty joke
"I apologize for my lack of manners milady, I guess you can take a boy out of the streets but can never take the streets out of the boy.
We, the ones with the broken hearts, rejected and hurt over and over in the past, are always looking for the 'right one' in the wrong places.

Dellas looks straight into Aoife's eyes trying his best charming smile
"Maybe I have been aiming too high? Maybe happiness can found in the small pleasures of life"

This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 14:05, Wed 05 Apr 2017.

ooc: Aoife is like a foot tall, so I'm picturing Dellas lying on the ground to look straight into her eyes.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 81):

OOC: Dont destroy this magic moment :P

According to Google:
How tall is a Leprechaun?
about three feet
Leprechauns average about three feet in height according to Irish folklore, but they will be larger than life this weekend, thanks to St. Patrick's Day.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:34, Wed 05 Apr 2017.

In reply to Dellas (msg # 82):

Going by the implied size modifier, they are about 18" tall.

Hilerno waits and watches, patiently, intently, a brief grin flickering across his face -- weathered skin shifting -- at the exchange between Aoife, Ardenas, and Dellas.

He has never seen a leprechaun before and is trying to not seem overly interested or surprised.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:30, Wed 05 Apr 2017.

In reply to Hilerno Orison (msg # 84):

One of the laborers arrives, carrying a bundle of goods Mancini purchased.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:07, Sat 08 Apr 2017.

"Careful with that elbow, Dellas.  And watch out for the little folk; some of them are more than they appear."

"Few of them are as they appear," Mancini returned. "If you've all prepared, let's head to the cellar."

ooc: From GURPS Dungeon Fantasy:

quote:

Find a leprechaun’s height normally for ST before adding the racial ST modifier, and then double it and convert feet to inches. For instance, a ST 7 leprechaun would have ST 11 before the racial modifier, and stand 10.8”-12.5” tall. Weight is 10-15 lbs.

They tiny.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 87):

OCC: Wow, she is really tiny... nah, not a problem, Dellas is still in love :)

In reply to Dellas (msg # 88):

Aoife could well be carried by him, but she stands all 18 inches tall, perhaps even seeming 19 inches, and returns his look.

"Aw, you have not been hurt until you get hunted by every asshole in the world for a supposed pot of gold you have that no one has ever seen! But I am sure if you treat this girl right, your heart will be more than intact! You need to do worst that gutter humour to really offend me.

But let time build any bond worth building. We have work to do...I am ready Mancini."

Oly returns with a pouch full of supplies.   Ready



[Private to GM: Mostly food and other obvious stuff... lock picks, rope, wedges, a pry bar etc. I'd like to roll for any odd needs that might occur.]

"Lead on."

Mancini led the way.

In reply to Aoife (msg # 89):

Dellas makes a surprised and innocent face
"Pot of gold? I never heard that before...
Anyway, Boss, Im ready!"

"It's literally the only thing most people know about leprechauns," Mancini said. "But this is Nortport, where they'll stick a knife between your ribs if they think your shoes will fit."

As they walk, Hilerno looks down at his boots, a calloused hand touching briefly at his ribs.

Ardenas gives Hilerno a wink.

"I don't think you need to worry, Hilerno.  Aoife could probably put both feet in either of your boots -- and I'm pretty sure she doesn't need to steal shoes anyway."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 96):

MonseiurDuClaire's warehouse is on the edge of the artisinal and dockside districts. A pair of guards with maroon sashes carrying spears stand by the double door.

Mancini greets them. "DuClair has sent us to deal with the cellar issue."

[Private to GM: Charisma 2, Voice +2, = +4 to reaction rolls. Guild Rank 3 if it matters.]
This message was last edited by the player at 14:04, Fri 07 Apr 2017.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 96):

"It is my ribs that I am worried about, but not from you Dallas. I doubt anyone would put a knife in your ribs just for your boots. Ironic that the one thing people 'know' about us is wrong...says a lot for the intelligence of the average human...and their avarice. Speaking of which, lets get DuClairs cellars back for him and get paid!"

"I agree.  Let's get this done."

In reply to Narrator (msg # 97):

Dellas put his right fist over his chest in a salute to the guards
"Long days and pleasant nights to you gentleman. How is your day so far?"

In reply to Dellas (msg # 101):

"Eh. Been seeing less mess with the orcs the past two days, but the noise from below is worse than the trolls."

"We will handle the matter," Mancini told the guards.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 103):

One of them pulls a scrap of parchment from a pouch.
"Let me see your badge number."

Mancini puts out an arm to forestall the others from offering their badges. "I should hardly think that's necessary, gentlemen. We're here to serve the city, not get bogged down in bureaucratic nonsense. Besides, I can assure you that it's all been cleared at the highest levels."


ooc: Mancini doesn't want to leave a paper trail.

Fast-Talk-17.
10:15, Today: Secret Roll: Mancini rolled 9 using 3d6.  Fast-Talk 17.

Success by 8
This message was last edited by the player at 15:18, Sun 09 Apr 2017.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 105):

"I dunno. The boss gave us a number, told us whoever came with it was good to go below."

He shows you the parchment, and you recognize the badge number... it is yours!

Mancini shows his badge to the guards. "There you go."

In reply to Mancini (msg # 107):

"Works for me. I am to take you down, and pass you a spare set of
Keys. They do not include the main key, so as to keep the riff raff down below until you deal with them."

"It may take some time." Mancini took the keys. "So don't concern yourself if you don't hear from us."

He led the way down.

"Noise from below?  Worse than the trolls?  Are ogres known for being noisy neighbors?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 110):

Aoife follows the others down.

In reply to Aoife (msg # 111):

The guard leads you in to the main level, which has racks of wine
barrels, down a ramp into another large room with rows of racks of
barrels, and toward a bronze and iron gate set in the floor, with several
 locks.

"There is a ladder along the wall there. You are going to need it."
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:42, Tue 11 Apr 2017.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 112):

Dellas is walking with a thoughtful expression while looking all the wine barrels in the room.

"Thank you, gentlemen," Mancini said. He turned to the others. "I speak... passable... ogrish. I will do my best to negotiate with them peacefully. Do your best to appear confident without being aggressive. Above all, be ready to act should things sour."

He unlocked and opened the hatch. "We'll send a scout first. To go down and see what we'll be crawling into, then return and report."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:43, Mon 10 Apr 2017.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 114):

"I would take the form of a bat, but I suspect ogres would see it as a flying snack..."

In reply to Mancini (msg # 114):


"Boss, give us a clear sign if you think we should attack. I dont understand much of Ogre talk, but to me they all seem angry when they talk, so if you want me to stick arrows in them, maybe we should have a special word or gesture.. I dont know..."

Hilerno stands and waits, leaning lightly against a wall or rack of wine casks.

"I don't have a word of ogrish.  With a little luck, they'll speak some Aralaise.  Otherwise, Mancini's going to be doing a lot of translating if it isn't just a straight-up fight -- and I hope it isn't."

Wan' me do look down dere?

"I think it's you or me, Oly.  Flip for it?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 120):

The guard begins unlocking the gate.
"Get ready, I am going to be closing this as soon as you are in."

"Let's see if there's any light down there first," Mancini said. "Open it."

This message was deleted by the player at 22:31, Tue 11 Apr 2017.

ooc: The language everybody speaks is Aralaise. It's what we've been speaking all along.

Holding out his helmet lamp to take a light from the torch, Ardenas says, "This'll keep my hands free, and give me enough light to see where I'm going."

He slips off his backpack -- not using the quick-release feature, this time.  He pats his delver's webbing, making sure his shuriken and paut are where he expects them, along with one bottle of oil for his lamp, then steps over by the ladder.

He holds his helmet lamp off to one side as he looks down the shaft to check for existing lights; if he sees none, he'll clip the lamp to his leather helm and start climbing down, as quietly as possible.

[Private to GM: 18:11, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 6 using 1d6+1.  Stealth (12).]

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 125):

There are no lights below, and the sound of the gate opening echoes strangely.
From the light you have, (the basement is torchlit) you can see that is a large open stace with another grate on the ground off to the side. Ardenas' headlamp reflects off of several gates along the side walls. The room looks to be about ten yards on a side, roughtly the same size as the cask filled space you are in.

"Does anyone have the magical ability to bestow dark vision upon our scout?" Mancini asked.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 127):

"No, but I can take a bats form and sit on his shoulder. Would that help?"

"Come if you're coming, Aoife.  I don't know that you even need to change form, if you can walk quietly."

Ardenas steps through the open grate and pauses, blocking it from closing with his body long enough for Aoife to pass if she wishes to.

"The matter at hand is the darkness below, Ardenas," Mancini said. "Can you scout effectively without a light source?"

In reply to Mancini (msg # 130):

Dellas put it is head pass the gate to try to see or hear anything


10:22, Today: Dellas rolled 10 using 3d6.  Observation Per/A [2] 15.

In reply to Dellas (msg # 131):

The three of you are kneeling  around a four foot wide openi g in the floor. The room below is about 10 yards square, four lards below you, and there are six metallic gates set in the walls, and a seventh on the floor below.

"It looks like there's sufficient light below," Mancini said. "Go take a look, Ardenas."

In reply to Mancini (msg # 133):

The only light is coming from the torches above, and Ardenas' headlamp.
The space is shadowy, although the metal surfaces are faintly reflective.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 133):

Dellas light it his torch

"Im going too, Ardenas. I can watch your back and you watch mine. Deal?"

"If you're bringing light sources then attempting stealth is pointless. We might as well all head down." Mancini shook his head. "Norman, you and Hilerno head down first and secure the room. The rest of us will follow."

Norman nodded and descended the ladder, shield on his back.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 136):

Dellas voice is cracked with embarrassment
"I was not going... I mean, it is dark and we cant see well from here... sorry boss..."

"Don't worry about it, Dellas. If we're to use scouts they must be both capable of stealth and without the need for a light source. Aiofe is, perhaps, our best bet... though I know some forms of shapeshifting leave the shifter with the mind of the creature they shift into. When you change, do you keep the wits of a Leprechaun, Aiofe?"

ooc: Specifically, the Shapeshift spell lets the caster retain their own mind, but Alternate Forms give you the IQ and mental traits of the animal. Specifically, a bat would get IQ -7 and the Wild Animal mental template (bestial, cannot speak, hidebound, fixed IQ).

Unless the GM has house-ruled a variant, of course!
This message was last edited by the player at 18:03, Wed 12 Apr 2017.

Hilerno goes down the ladder after Norman.

Oly carefully surveys the lock on the trap door with out being too obvious...






[Private to GM:  13:23, Today: Oly rolled 9 using 3d6.  Lock picking.  by 7 (used to ID how secure the lock is and how hard to pick)
13:22, Today: Oly rolled 11 using 3d6.  Perception. By 3]

In reply to Mancini (msg # 139):

"Oh, I can keep my intellect, though the longer I stay in animal form, the greater the risk of loosing some intelligence."

She casts a spell with a flick of her wrist, and her body merges to take the form of a bat. She flys down through the hole and hangs from the ceiling, waiting for the others iff there is nothing down there.

"My apologies, Mancini -- I think of all of us, only Aoife can see in true darkness, and then only after shifting her form.  My night vision is quite ordinary, just that of a man.  Below ground, without lights of some kind, I might as well be blind.  Hence why I have a lamp I can put on my head, to keep my hands free."

As he speaks, he shoulders his backpack again, since he won't be scouting ahead of the group.

"I've heard of lenses that bestow such gifts," Mancini tapped the bridge of his own glasses, "but only in rumors. Such an artifact would serve you well. Perhaps after our business here is done, you might mount a quest for them."

He looked up at bat-Aoife. "There's considerable danger in scouting, and you'd have to go alone. In these cellars there's not much room to avoid the ogres, should they decide that bat is on the menu. We can do without a scout if need be, but I leave the choice up to you."

In reply to Mancini (msg # 144):

OOC: Bat-Aoife in in the next room, and cannot speak. She will answer your question with a squeak...

In reply to Aoife (msg # 145):

This place has a lingering odor of char. There are six gates, two to the
left and two to the right, and one on each of the other walls, as well as the gate
in the floor. There are signs of there having been a great struggle in this room,
and the bars of at least one gate are bent, as if something of great strength tried
to force its way through.  The guard above withdraws the ladder, and begins to close
 the grate above you.

[Private to Aoife: your sonar detects passageways beyond each of the gates, but nothing moving. The grate in the floor covers something at least twenty yards deep]
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:01, Fri 14 Apr 2017.

Ardenas speaks very softly: "Either Oly or I can reopen this grate at need, and I can get either of us down into the room below without harm, as well as back up without need for a ladder, if it is necessary.  It will take some time, however."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 147):

Aoife flys around to see what might be beyond the bars.

"If we succeed we'll have found out how the ogres gained access to the undercity to begin with," Mancini said. "And this entrance will become irrelevant... as will the wine merchant's influence over the guild. This is our true objective. The role the ogres play is comparatively minor, but they're of more use to us alive."

The light dim with just the one torch, Hilerno asks, "Should I light another torch?"

In reply to Aoife (msg # 148):

Dellas is visibly worried when he sees Aoife flying away from sight.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:02, Fri 14 Apr 2017.

"I've got my lamp," as he points to his head, "But we'll probably want more light to bring along when we go below.  Might want to hold until Aoife gets back from scouting, though; she might be able to make us lights with magic."

Mancini catches Dellas's look. "Don't worry. Each of you is a tremendously capable individual, or I wouldn't have brought you along. Everyone in the guild is capable of pulling their own weight." He pulled out a parchment map and studied it carefully.

[Private to GM: ooc: Trying to determine where we are on the map of the undercity, and where the ogres might be hiding. Would that be psychology, tactics, strategy, urban survival, or something else?]

In reply to Mancini (msg # 153):

Dellas nods back to Mancini and grabs the rope from his backpack

In reply to Dellas (msg # 154):

The rather minimal map of the undercity indicates the main causways on the first level. The sewers and their maintanancevrooms are below that on the second level, this place is not indicated on the map.

Mancini takes out his scribal kit and adds their current location to the map, along with whatever is visible through each of the gates.

ooc: Cartography-14
14:15, Today: Mancini rolled 6 using 3d6.  cartography-14.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 156):

These gates look rather new, and the undercity map you have might not be the right scale to accommodate the spaces. DuClair had said he paid a fortune to have the dwarf Voorland install some gates. These might be them. Not all are the same style, and the wall immediately around several
 is black and shiny.


Ooc: I have too many threads running in the same group to post separate
maps, I will link them up via google drive

In reply to Narrator (msg # 157):

No worries.

We can narrate what Aoife sees in a quick fly-around. If she detects movement, she will return pronto!

In reply to Aoife (msg # 158):

There are twisty corridors three yards wide through each of the gates,
there are areas of differing density, that Aoife marks as being doors.
This area is densely configured, unlike the wide conduits on Mancini's
Map. If this area connects to the main portion of the undercity, it isn't near this chamber.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 159):

Aoife returns and resumes normal form. [Private to GM: But maintains the spell.]

"There are twisty corridors three yards wide through each of the gates, there are areas of differing density, that Aoife marks as being doors. This area is densely configured, unlike the wide conduits on Mancini's Map."

In reply to Aoife (msg # 160):

"Should we go down boss?"

"Can any of you track?"

In reply to Mancini (msg # 162):

I'm good tracking things

"Then you take point. See if you can track the ogres to where they've gone. Hilerno and Ardenas go next to give him some light, and to provide some protection if we're attacked. I'll follow behind with Oly. Norman can guard the rear. Aoife can fly along as she pleases."

Hilerno lights a torch and takes his position, sword in hand.

In reply to Hilerno Orison (msg # 165):

Dellas go down to the level bellow and kneels to the floor looking for some tracks and clues


19:52, Today: Dellas rolled 10 using 3d6.  Tracking Per/A [2] 15.

Ardenas follows Dellas down, careful to walk only where Dellas has already been.  His light dances around the room, always pointing where he's looking.

Oly will follow when it's his turn...

In reply to Oly (msg # 168):

A great many tracks have been through this place, kobolds, trolls, a group of humans, something with small hooves, and also something with large flat feet. Near some of the char marks toward the north easternmost gate,
there are claw marks in the wall, and marks in the ash of something quite large, or several oddly shaped small things, but you aren't sure which.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:16, Wed 19 Apr 2017.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 169):

Dellas make a hand gesture to the rest of the party pointing to the north easternmost gate.
He tries to walk as silent as possible, blending himself with the shadows.

09:51, Today: Dellas rolled 12 using 3d6.  Stealth 16.

In reply to Dellas (msg # 170):

There are char marks all along the floor by the gate, and deep claw marks on the wall beside it.

The kobold with you shakes his head.
"This is old. The ogres were not in this space."

"Where did you see them?"

In reply to Mancini (msg # 172):

With the group moving, Aoife moves around just ahead of them in bat form, returning to them when they change direction to move ahead in the new direction.

Ardenas also moves as quietly as possible, flanking Dellas so his light shines ahead of them both.

[Private to GM: 18:54, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 10 using 3d6.  Stealth (12).]

In reply to kobold (msg # 171):

"My brother, not I. They retreated, and locked the gates, leaving tools behind... and another the ogre snatched."

"Then why are you guiding us instead of your brother?" Mancini asked, sure he'd asked the kobold to send someone who'd seen the ogre. "Never mind. Lead us to where the ogres were seen."

Every few steps, Ardenas looks around the area, the broad beam of his light swinging with each movement of his head.  Within a second or two, each time, he returns to facing forward so his light assists Dellas.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 176):

"My brother has a broken arm, he may never work as a laborer again.
One of the ogres threw a troll skull at him."

In reply to kobold (msg # 178):

Aoife continues to be close to the scouts. She does not seem to like the sound of flying troll skulls...

"Well. We don't expect any laboring from you. Just lead us to where we need to go, and hide if there's trouble."

Ardenas addresses the kobold.  "Was your brother able to have the bones set and splinted, so the arm will heal straight?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 181):

"He was on his way to see the guild surgeon, Master Averus, and was to see Zeel-Zeel after."

A distant thumping can be heard from the northeast gate.

"Don't distract the help—" Mancini begins, stopping at the thumping. "Quickly, this way. Be ready. If these are the ogres, try not to kill any if they attack, not until we can calm them down."

How are we calming dem?

"If none of you have a magical means, then I speak Ogrish, and I can be very persuasive," Mancini said. "But if we need to incapacitate them, then so be it. Killing any makes negotiations more difficult."

In reply to Mancini (msg # 185):

Aoife fly's off in the direction of the noise.

[Private to GM: She will return at the first sign of trouble.]

"Incapacitating without killing matches my preference."

Ardenas takes a ready stance, left side toward the source of the noise.

Oly is seems perplexed and looks for a good hide position.

"Questions, Oly?"

I dunno how do incapazidade a ogre ... an dey iz big and can be mean. I ain' no fighder, zo I z geddin' ouda da way.

"Ideally there won't be any need for violence, unless they're unwilling to treat with us in good nature. If everything goes pear-shaped, I suggest you treat matters like a puzzle." He grinned. "You've a hand. You've a blade. They have throats and are easily distracted. I'm sure you can figure out the solution."

I know how do zdiff one if need be ... bud incapazidade I dunno' ...

"Hamstrings, perhaps?  If they can't stand or walk, we just have to stay out of reach."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 193):

Dellas lets Mancini take the lead and start looking in the ground for three small round rocks to juggle and help distract the Ogres

Hilerno readies his blade, intending to attack with the flat if he's able to, or otherwise attack to disable rather than to slay.

In reply to Hilerno Orison (msg # 195):

Aoife flies off through the bars, as yet no one has unlocked the gate.

[Private to Aoife:the corridor forks and twists and has many doors. You travel a fair distance without encountering them]
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 18:40, Mon 24 Apr 2017.

"Dellas. Unlock the gate."

In reply to Mancini (msg # 197):

Dellas nods to Mancini and takes his pickpocketing tools out of a pocket in his cloak and starts very carefully to work in the lock's mechanisms

14:57, Today: Dellas rolled 8 using 3d6.  Lockpicking 13.

Oly nods at Dellas skill... Nod Bad

"You could learn a lot from Oly," Mancini nodded.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 200):

Aoife will return presently.

[Private to GM: Will not go too far without support...]

In reply to Aoife (msg # 201):

The gate swings open with a squeak, revealing a 4 yard wide corridor that makes a turn to the left after a half dozen yards.

"Dellas, you might want to hang behind me with your bow for this stretch."

Ardenas moves forward just short of the bend on the opposite side of the corridor (i.e. "outside" of the corner), where he can see partially around the corner without exposing himself more than by the light from his lamp.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 203):

Dellas slowly takes his bow out and follows Ardenas, trying to be as silent as possible

Hilerno continues to move with the group, torch and sword in hands.

In reply to Hilerno Orison (msg # 205):

Dellas stops for a second, trying to see or hear anything ahead


16:12, Today: Dellas rolled 10 using 3d6.  Observation Per/A [2] 15.

Ardenas also listens for movement ahead.

[Private to GM: 18:30, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 6 using 3d6.  Perception, to hear if there's something ahead (10).]

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 207):

Aoife sits on Dallas shoulder, if he is willing...

In reply to Aoife (msg # 208):

Dellas looks at Aoife in his shoulders and smile

In reply to Dellas (msg # 209):

There is a distant sound of something being dragged, and some stomping. This whole area reeks of smoke.

In the faintest whisper he can manage, Ardenas addresses Dellas.

"I'll move foward, you follow -- give me a little space."

Then Ardenas steps out and advances slowly past the corner, treading as lightly as possible.

[Private to GM: 17:39, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 6 using 3d6.  Stealth (12).]

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 211):

Dellas follows Ardenas after a time, always very silently in the shadows.

Hilerno hangs behind, aware of where his torch casts shadows, shielding it with his body when needed.

Oly watches behind them as well ... But keeps an eye out for where the group goes too.

In reply to Oly (msg # 214):

On this map North is to the left. The pit has a grating over it and you went through the NE doorway https://drive.google.com/file/...lE/view?usp=drivesdk

In reply to Narrator (msg # 215):

Aoife stays in bat form with Dallas, observing in the darkness.

OOC: So the corridor went east, then turned north?

Ardenas continues to soft-foot forward, listening as he goes for the sounds we heard earlier.

[Private to GM: 07:20, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 10 using 3d6.  Stealth (12).
07:21, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 10 using 3d6.  Perception, to hear if there's something ahead (10).]

In reply to Narrator (msg # 215):

Dellas walks very slowly to investigate the pit

In reply to Dellas (msg # 218):

The pit is under a grating in the main room. Within the twisty corridor past the gate you unlocked are a number of doors. Some are singed, most have simple decorative carving.

Ardenas continues forward, still scanning around him -- not just to see for himself, but so his light will provide illumination for Dellas to what we're passing.

[Private to GM: 18:26, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 12 using 3d6.  Stealth (12).]

In reply to Narrator (msg # 219):

Dellas points to the carvings on one of the doors and whisper:

Does any of you recognize the symbols?

"They're likely decorative." Mancini walks slowly from door to door, examining each closely to see if there is sign of recent passage, pausing to listen.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:26, Wed 03 May 2017.

In reply to Dellas (msg # 221):

Aoife scans the carvings with her bat senses.

In reply to Dellas (msg # 221):

The carving seems to be merely decorative.

You cannot hear anything from behind the door

Nothing is moving in the immediate range of Aoife's sonar.

Ardenas approaches the first door in the corridor, and waves at Mancini to get his attention, then angles his head at the door with a quizzical look and pantomimes pushing the door.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 225):

The kobold shrugs, and pulls the door open, revealing a stack of bedding and what look like kobold personal ecfects.

Ardenas gives an exaggerated shrug and moves across the hallway to the first door on that side, still listening for the noises we heard earlier.

[Private to GM: 18:07, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 6 using 3d6.  Stealth (12).]

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 227):

Ardenas yanks open the door, and he can see an odd contraption in the room, an upturned
cauldron in a pile of sand.  The sand looks partly melted.

Ardenas shakes his head, then repeats the shrug for the benefit of those following and moves to the next door.

[Private to GM: 04:51, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 12 using 3d6.  Stealth (12).]

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 229):

Aoifewatches from her perch on Dallas shoulder with interest.

In reply to Aoife (msg # 230):

The next door up has metal plating, incised with a decorative pattern.

lookz like zumpin' hod in dere unner dad cauldron.

Ardenas looks at the metal-coated door without touching it, then turns and whispers to Oly.

"Whatever was in there, I doubt it still is.  Sand has to be so hot to melt, we'd be able to feel the heat from the door.  I'm just trying to figure out where the ogres are -- otherwise, I presume this area was cleared out by the previous Guild group."

Once finished, he reaches out and eases the metal-clad door open to get a look behind it.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 233):

Within the metal clad door is some kind of an artisan's shop. the tool racks are stripped, but
 there are the remains of a forge, and a bellows, and a small pile of coal. There are some
half- carved pieces of stone and wood, and some ingots of soft base metals, but nothing that looks valuable.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 234):

Bat Aoife fly's over and takes Lepricaun form to investigate the ingots types.

In a barely audible whisper, "No ogres here.  The stuff in there belongs to our employer."

Leaving the door open for Aoife, Ardenas turns to investigate the next door.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 236):

A small cot is in one corner of the next room. Dried herbs and lichens hang over a small battered brazier. There  is a small chest of drawers, which are all askew.

Zumone lookin' fer zduff ... an' nod very good ad id I'd dink.

In reply to Oly (msg # 238):

Aoife sighs at Ardenas' comment and resumes bat form, flying ahead no more than a single room at a time.

In reply to Aoife (msg # 239):

Aoifie can detect an opening into a larger space that does not have a door some distance ahead.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 240):

She flies towards it until she reaches it or detects movement.

Ardenas whispers back: "Might have just been in a hurry, Oly.  Weren't the last bunch down here fighting trolls as they went?"

Ummm Maybe...

With bat-Aoife out of the room with the metal-clad door, Ardenas closes that door and quietlyfollows along in the direction the bat is traveling.

OOC: is she bypassing any additional doors we need to check?

[Private to GM: 18:55, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 11 using 3d6.  Stealth (12).]

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 244):

No, she is only about 20 yards ahead at most, usually half that. She stops and hangs from the roof until everyone catches up to 5 yards behind her before flying off again.

In reply to Aoife (msg # 245):

There is one more door before you get to the area she found, which has a large bronze gate partly open to the east.

Cringing as he audibly stubs his toe while advancing, Ardenas will peek through the opening Aoife bypassed, before pushing the door further open to view the entire room behind it.

[Private to GM: 18:42, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 13 using 3d6.  Stealth (12).]

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 247):

A few stone vats are in this room, and a steady drip of water into a stone sink from a bronze pipe protruding into the wall. Between the sink and the vats is a conical cistern made in three tiers, with a low spigot. An iron bucket lies on its side. Something smells fermented in one of the vats.

Ardenas continues along the hallway to where bat-Aoife has stopped.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 249):

This is a cross corridor, and the eastern fork ends in a large bronze gate, which is unsecured. The wide arched corridor beyond it, running north/south has the look of one of the major conduits Ardenas passed through before with Zeelzeel.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 250):

Bat-Aoife flies ahead to investigate, returning if she sees anything move or that looked alive.

On seeing the bronze gate, Ardenas frowns.  "That should be locked, shouldn't it?" he whispers.

He soft-foots up to the gate, and looks through it before touching the bronze.  If there's nothing alive in sight, he'll pull/push the gate shut (with a startling clang!).

[Private to GM: 19:50, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 15 using 3d6.  Stealth (12).]

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 252):

The clanging sound echoes a bit, and there is some noise from the opposite (westward) corridor.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:43, Wed 24 May 2017.

"Oly! Let's get this locked so we don't have to worry about it."  His whisper will carry across the room, if needed.

Ardenas heads for the west opening, where the other sound was heard -- still trying to move quietly.

[Private to GM: 04:51, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 11 using 3d6.  Stealth (12).]

Oly heads over to the Brass gate Ardenas was at when he asked... he makes a quick check of the lock... zeemz odd locking dings inzdead of unlocking dem ... he says to no one in particular.





[Private to GM:  09:22, Today: Oly rolled 9 using 3d6.  Lock Picking to lock. By 7   ]

In reply to Oly (msg # 255):

O,y secures the gate. From down the hall you can hear grumbling and stomping.  Aoife can sense something large moving toward you.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 256):

Aoife quickly returns to the others, resumes her usual form and reports that the ogres might be coming. Something large is, anyway.

Ardenas takes up a position in the T intersection, in full view, the lamp on his helmet shining toward the source of the noise.

Oly moves quickly and quietly to a place in the shadows, behind things if possible. If he has to fight, he wants it to be a surprise to his target.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 258):

A massive, if hunched figure, 8 feet tall and six wide, hideoys, with
warty yellowish skin and carrying a large club shambles toward you on
treetrunk legs, squinting at the light.

Ardenas looks up at the hunched figure.

"Greetings!  I am Ardenas, called Barehand.  I mean you no harm, but wish to speak with you and your companions."

OOC: Speaking Aralaise, of course.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 261):

Aoife bat becomes mischievous Aoife Lepricaun...

In reply to Aoife (msg # 262):

The ogre growls, and bares his yellowed teeth, and raises his club!

In reply to Ogre (msg # 263):

Aoife casts a spell.

[Private to GM: Shapeshift others, resisted by will, rolled 9 under, 8 under considering she has the shapeshift self still being maintained :) She has to hold it until she touches him with her wand or hand, right?]

In reply to Aoife (msg # 264):

A faint crackle of energy surrounds Aoife's hand.
[Private to Aoife:you need to roll DX or brawling + relative size difference-he is SM+1, so I think that is a +5. Then he resists with will+MR]

Ardenas drops into ready stance as the ogre's club rises.

At the top of his voice: "We would prefer not to fight!  But if we must, we will.  This place belongs to a surface dweller!"

Oly draws his long knife and looks for a way to get behind the big guy...

Hilerno lowers the torch somewhat, to his side, his sword at the ready.

In reply to Hilerno Orison (msg # 268):

Hilerno's weapon takes 2 hands...

Oly needs to make a stealth roll at -3

In reply to Narrator (msg # 269):

Oly slips around the big guy noiselessly in the shadows and checks behind the ogre to see if more may be coming, if so he signs the others how many he sees, if not he lines up his attack if needed.



[Private to GM: 11:47, Today: Oly rolled 5 using 3d6.  Stealth. By 11]

Hilerno wedges the torch somewhere for the moment.

Ardenas holds his ready stance, looking for any sign that the ogre understood him.  Without looking aside, he speaks: "Does anyone have any idea what other languages this fellow might speak?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 272):

The ogres's eyes shift from one of you to the next and focus on Hilerno.
The ogre steps forward, swinging his club...

Oly on the spur of the moment, decides killing this Ogre might completely sour relation chances, instead he takes a swinging draw cut the ogres Hamstring on his right leg.




[Private to GM: No clue what Modifiers you want to use for the called shot; 09:26, Today: Oly rolled 11 using 3d6.  Knife skill. made by 9 less Mods
09:26, Today: Oly rolled 14 using 2d6+2.  Knife Damage (cutting).  IF you allow a 2D6  +2 attack plus the fine weapon advantage of +1
09:26, Today: Oly rolled 4 using 1d6+2.  Knife Damage (cutting). If you call it a 1D6  +1 attack plus the fine weapon advantage of +1]

With one step and a leap, Ardenas rises high enough to look eye to eye with the ogre, and delivers a kick to the arm that's swinging the club, then lands back in ready stance between the ogre and Hilerno.

"No!" he shouts.

[Private to GM: 18:00, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 12 using 3d6.  Jumping (16).
18:02, Today: Chou-Zhen Mou rolled 11 using 3d6.  Karate (kick) roll to hit (15)  targeting weapon arm (-2).
18:04, Today: Chou-Zhen Mou rolled 5 using 1d6+1.  Kick Damage.
18:06, Today: Chou-Zhen Mou rolled 4 using 1d6+1.  Acrobatics (14).
18:13, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 8 using 3d6.  Acrobatics (14) (corrected dice).]
This message was last edited by the player at 22:14, Thu 01 June 2017.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 275):

Aoife approachs the ogre from the side, or behind if possible, but stays out of range for now.

In reply to Aoife (msg # 276):

Ardenas launcges a flying kick, but the ogre's hide absorbs much of the blow. However, the crippling slice to its hamstring causes it to collapse,
Even as it swings at Hilerno...
[Private to Hilerno: dodge or parry or take a serious hit]
This message was last edited by the player at 12:24, Fri 02 June 2017.

Oly backs out of the way and gets back in the shadows.

In reply to Oly (msg # 278):

Aoife takes the chance to move in and strike the ogre with her staff. The magic dissipates...

[Private to GM: Rolled 7 under staff skill...he needs to make a will roll or dodge (if he even worries about the attack...)]

In reply to Aoife (msg # 279):

Hilerno needs to respond before Aoife acts

Hilerno stands still, where he is, sword still in one hand, to his side. His breath steady, he tries to speak calmly, but strongly.

"No need to fight. We are more. Room is small. Talk to us." He says that in Aralaise, and then in Valdassyan.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:45, Wed 07 June 2017.

In reply to Hilerno Orison (msg # 281):

Hilerno was about to be struck. If he doesn't parry or dodge, he will take significant  damage.

Oho! Well, in that case, he dodges.

In reply to Hilerno Orison (msg # 283):

Roll under your dodge skill on the diceroller, post results here
This message was last updated by the GM at 19:49, Fri 16 June 2017.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 284):

Hilerno sidesteps the Ogre's huge mace!
It cracks the flagstone he slams it into!
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:06, Sat 24 June 2017.

In reply to Hilerno Orison (msg # 285):

Aoifes touch I now?

In reply to Aoife (msg # 286):

Aoife strikes the ogre, and he starts to shimmer... what is he turning into?

In reply to Ogre (msg # 287):

Aoife only has one option... a tuna!

In reply to Aoife (msg # 288):

The ogre's shape blurs and it collapses onto the floor, flopping!

"Aoife!  We aren't here to kill them, we just need to get them out of this section of the cellars."

Id ain' dead yed ...

In reply to Oly (msg # 291):

"You seemed to be a whole lot more violent than this. If you like I can dispel it and you can go back to him trying to kill you..."

In reply to Aoife (msg # 292):

"He is disarmed, perhaps we can throw a rope around him before turning him back?"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 14:43, Wed 28 June 2017.

In reply to Aoife (msg # 292):

I ain' godz yer magical eider

"Still, how will we negotiate with the others if we kill this one?  Is there some way to keep him in this form, but keep him from dying?  A spell to let the fish breathe air, perhaps?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 295):

"Anyone have a large container of water? What about that cauldron in the other room? Any spellcasters can create water? I sadly cannot..."

"I'm limited to Movement College, I fear.  I could levitate the fish, for a short time, or even the cauldron, but I can't create water."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 297):

"Turn him back, small fey. It is not fitting that such a combatant die from suffocation."

In reply to Hilerno Orison (msg # 298):

"Are you sure?"

Wid luck he haz noded whad could happen ifn' he don' play nice.

In reply to Oly (msg # 300):

Aoife dispels the spell and steps back.

As the fish begins to shift back into ogre's shape, Ardenas watches for arms to appear, and attempts to catch one before it's fully formed, but is unbalanced by his heavy pack and misses the grab.

[Private to GM: 05:13, Today: Ardenas Barehand rolled 13 using 3d6.  Grapple w/ Judo skill (12), targeting arm (-2).]

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 302):

The ogre reforms, face down and flopping, gasping, very disoriented, and stunned.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:00, Fri 30 June 2017.

Quick-releasing his backpack, Ardenas rummages inside for rope before pulling out a coil of heavy stuff.

"Oly, help me hogtie him."  Holding several feet, he tosses the rest of the coil toward the ogre's feet before starting to wrap the part he held around the wrists, pulling them together in the small of the ogre's back.

"Anyone good with knots?  I'm as likely to tie a slipknot as one that'll hold."


OOC: This is 3/4" rope, rated for 1100 lbs., twenty yards total.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 304):

"Dont look at me..."

This message was deleted by the player at 15:24, Sat 01 July 2017.

OK... Nod real gud wid knodz mezelf ... lemmme dry.

[5 blank lines suppressed]

[Private to GM: 08:22, Today: Oly rolled 8 using 3d6.  Remembering a knot.]
This message was last edited by the player at 23:10, Sat 01 July 2017.

While Oly works on tying the ogre's wrists, Ardenas will move to wrapping his ankles, while keeping an eye on him to be sure he doesn't recover too much before we can get him immobilized.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 308):

The ogre stirs, the ropes at his wrists holding.

Ardenas keeps a close eye on the ogre's movements.  "Can someone hold this rope, or take another couple turns around his ankles?"

When someone takes over the rope, Ardenas will move to the ogre's head.  "Do yourself a huge favor, and stay quiet.  If I have to stun you, it'll hurt a lot more than turning into a fish."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 310):

The ogre seems to be both frightened and confused, and his movements are weak.

"Okay, let's try talking again.  Do you speak any Aralaise at all?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 312):

"Fish... no more fish!"
This message was lightly edited by the player at 03:04, Tue 04 July 2017.

In reply to Ogre (msg # 313):

" Friendly ogre, no fish. Nasty ogre, fishy ogre! We did try to be nice..."

"I am Ardenas.  Do you have a name?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 315):

"They call me Borug."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 01:38, Fri 07 July 2017.

"Well, Borug, I for one would rather talk to you than fight.  Are there more of your kind near here?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 317):

"Fergush, Winslow, Dhreck, Margala live here now with Borug."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:58, Sat 08 July 2017.

"The problem is, this section of the cellars belongs to a surface dweller, Lamont DuClaire.  He's in pretty tight with the Guild, and you don't want to have them against you.  If you five don't find another place, they'll send people down here to kill you, but they sent us first, to try to talk you into leaving."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 319):

"I go where Fergush and Margala go."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 319):

"I go where Fergush and Margala go."

"Well, then we apparently need to talk to Fergush and Margala.  Are Winslow and Dhruck with them?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 321):

"Winslow have own room. Dhruck sleep wherever."

"Why did you all come here at this time?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 323):

Borug shrugs.
 "Trolls gone. Empty place."

Ardenas turns to Oly and Aoife, with a helpless look on his face.

"Trolls gone.  So these guys moved into the vacancy.  This will happen again, if we clear these guys out and the space stands empty."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 325):

"Wait, if they were beating up kobolds, then it was not empty..."

Oly nods ... Dadz Drue Aoife, dough dey may nod dink much o' da Kobaldz