~~Damn,~~ Mekkar thought to himself as he stood on the edge of the fairgrounds, surveying the scene in front of him, ~~I don't think that I've ever walked so far in my life. Not for that many days piled on top of one another, any way. My feet are killing me. I hope to the Hells that this fair lives up to its billing.~~

For a man who had never been out of Waterdeep's Dock Ward, it had been a long and tiring journey, indeed. He had traveled with a merchant's caravan headed southwards out of the City of Splendors. The arrangement that had been struck was he would travel with the caravan and use his weapons in its defense if need be, in return for food being furnished to him and his being allowed to spread his bedroll near one of the caravan's fires at night.

As luck would have it, he never had to draw a blade or load his crossbow, and he had arrived at his destination safe and sound -- something that he would not have cared to wager money on if he had been traveling the roads all the way from Waterdeep by himself.

Master Oakmont had halted his caravan close to the nearby stream (saying something about needing a good supply of fresh water for his animals and his people, in that order). Mekkar had parted ways with the merchant at that point and moved towards what he took to be the center of the fairgrounds. As he glanced about, his attention was attracted by young woman who was carrying on about how tough she was.

~~I suppose that this is what passes for entertainment in these parts,~~ Mekkar mused. ~~I'd be curious to see how this one would stack up against the Golem.~~

He couldn't remember who had spoken to him about it, but Alleycat recalled hearing that there was a better than average brewery in the area. He figured that the owner would have set up a booth to sell his or her wares, and he decided that he needed something a bit more satisfying than water to quench his thirst.

The dust-covered traveler craned his neck this way and that, hoping to spot the brewer's booth ...
This message was last edited by the player at 23:03, Wed 22 Dec 2021.

Bross Tallcut was having a great day.

Father organized the caravan weeks ago, explaining his reasons to Bross (who was just learning) as he went. He'd reached out to kin and neighboring farms, setting up a little wagon train. The trick, father said, is to not go so far that the animals eat all the product just to make the trip.

Another trick, he added in a growl, is you won't be bothered 'til the way back. Bandits are greedy, not stupid. They don't rustle a man with empty pockets. And (he added, pointing out where they'd have a strong guard on the way back) they won't bother a man at ALL, for more than he's worth- too much like work.

The rest of that time was a rush of meeting his cousins and cousins-of-cousins, the ride up to Greenest passsing in a blur of jokes and song. They arrived a bit before dawn, and split into two, camping far out on the edge of the fairgrounds and sending the goods in early while the buyers' purses were full and their brains half-asleep. Father, sharp as ever, got good coin for the wares they were selling, and would be sure to divvy it up right, once he got back home.

On the way back, after the deliveries were made, father cheated. Just a little.

The usual way of it was, when you went out for the Winter (to "cut down on mouths to feed"), it was all you. Like how Cousin Arton found his post with the Thousandheads Trading Coster out of Berdusk, or Half-Cousin Imra outrageously lied her way into a position as Ladies-maid for some lordling's daughter. You did it yourself, you weren't just handed off like a 'prentice.

But, as Bross steered their cart back to camp, Father pointed out every good lead he saw, couched in instructions. ("Look out! That's the caravan from Elturel- they're so rich, they think they can buy the middle of the road.") It was a small gesture, but so unlike him, it made Bross smile.

Bross paid Father what he could [OOC: He's paying about 75% of his remaining money back into the farm], and that was that. They were done until Spring.

Business done, the younger cousins (including Bross) had a 'farewell, for now' party by the river, wishing eachother luck and lying boastful wagers to eachother about the kings ransoms they'd bring back in Spring. And, by next morning, they were all- as these things always went- off on their own.

Bross walked himself through the fair, carefully trying not to bump into people (because- between his natural size and being under full pack- it was hard not to), enjoying the crisp of the air and the company of more people than he'd ever seen in one place.

He borrowed a sack to put over his Great Axe, making it more of a strange walking stick than a menace, and just watched the day. Someone was trying to juggle, which ended up being a more a test of reflexes as people had to duck. There was all manner of food. Bross thought he danced with a beautiful lady, then found he was just dancing next to her. He passed three boys singing what seemed to be an ode to a girl's elbows, while she giggled furiously. Bross enviously eyed the prize breastplate at an armorers' stall- much to small to fit, and much to expensive to pay, before settling for a mail shirt that was close enough on both counts.

Then, he heard the Brag.

At least that's what the Tallcuts' people called it- the I-can-take-any-man-in-the-room declaration of someone about to either dish out or recieve a huge lesson.

But he'd never seen a woman do one, before. She was across the square and wore a foreign-looking mask and strangers' armor. He suspected that if they were stood together, they'd be about even, eye-to-eye, something that almost never happened to Bross with girls.

And the thing about a Brag is, you can't just let one lie. It's no fun, if you do...

[OOC: Catrina, since it's basically first move, would you rather beat up an NPC first, or would I be okay to proceed? It's your thing, I figure you're entitled to a jobber if you want one. :) ]
This message was last edited by the player at 06:08, Wed 22 Dec 2021.

From the far edge of town, the lone figure approached Greenest....someone you'd expect not to travel in these parts alone. As she entered the borders of Greenest, several children playing drew her attention, and she reached up, pulling back the cowl of her hooded cloak.

The woman, though clearly not entirely human, was young...even by half elven standards. Standing under five foot tall, her frame was slender like most of her elven kin, though her human side enhanced this with natural curves. Her blonde brown hair fell down past her shoulders like a golden waterfall, and her eyes, a dark green, looked on yo the children, making her smile.

Even in everyday life, this woman caught the eyes of most...this was her gift and her curse. But, years ago, she learnt to use it to her advantage. As such, even though she was covered in the well made but well worn cloak, her clothes were made to enhance her physical beauty - her linen skirt slit almost all the way to her hip, and her top showed her abdomen, cut short with it cut to show her shoulders and cleavage.

Everywhere she went, she gained looms for men and women alike.

....sometimes she wished she could hide.

One girl from the town came over with a flower, something simple and plain yo.most, but Sora's smile showed that she though it a treasure. The half elf took the flower with a smile as the child spoke in a soft voice. "Your pretty miss."

Sora giggled as she took the flower, and placed a hand on her cheek. "So are you.....is the festival this way?" The girl nodded, and Sora winked as she made her way,the smile now tinged with sadness.

She envied the girls innocence.

She walked into town and saw the beginnings of the festival, her eyes drawn by the female warrior, she stood back, her arms crossed (and her cloak now pulled back to show her outfit)

This may be more interesting than she thought

"My rules are simple and easy to understand. Just enter my ring with any weapons you feel comfortable using. I have no need to use such weapons unless it's a monster so bring it. But no magic, that's poor sportsmanship right their. And also if I pin you down for at least 10 seconds, you lose. Same applies to me but I'm warning you, it's not that easy to get the drop on me." Catrina says confidently, she then cracks her knuckles at the challenge though,"Also, don't worry about any injuries, we got a priest from the local church as referee and medic. We wanna have fun here right, no one wants to be stuck in an infirmary all day now do we." she says with a happy-go-lucky smile, which for those perceptive bunch in the crowd, they notice small tusk protrude on this mask individual.


I'm okay if one of you guys are entering first. Proceed if you will.

Antru and the rest of his troupe was spread out among the crowd. Zannatar had a small crowed watching his fire breathing act. Granted him being a Dragonborn made it a much easier act. Brash their halfling was doing feats of strength somewhere else. Despite his small size he was far stronger than many large men. Of course Antru had is own small crowd watching him. He juggled two daggers and a scimitar, as he preformed a few small acrobatic feats. He was rather limited to what he could do while juggling, but he made the best of it. His right outfit helped with selling the show he was doing. Antru was dressed in Studded leather armor. It was died a bright pink, with each stud being a different color. The studs themselves had streamers attached to them matching the colour of the studs, as he moved they fluttered about and provided a bit of a distraction to the eye as he preformed. His face was likewise painted. Stark white with hints of colour around the eyes and bright red on mouth. His hair was also coloured into a bright green. A small collection plate was set to the side for any who wished to contribute. Though he focused on his performance, Antru kept an eye on the plate. He knew all to well how easy it was to "barrow" coin from the plate while performer was busy.






08:30, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 5 using 1d20+1.  performance.

Looks like I'm not putting on a great show.


08:31, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 10 using 1d20+7.  Acrobatics .

and my acrobatics could use some work. At least they are just mediocre and not a total fail.

Bross listens to the rules as he wades through the crowd, 'xcuse me-ing his way to the front. He suspected it was a rigged game, like Father said of Festival games- but still, a game for all that. He decided to play.

Trailing 'look at the size of-" and "This should be good!"s behind him, he finally makes it up to ringside. In an outdoor voice, he plays back.

"I'm game!" he roars "Catrina of the GreySkys, your Challenge reaches Bross of the Tallcuts-" [Slings off his pack, sets it at ringside, lowers his voice a little so just those nearby hear] " ...and if something happens to this something happens to the thief ."

He rolls up his sleeves, louder again "A scrap sounds a fine use of a fine day-" He sets his 'walking stick' aside, accidentally dropping the sack and revealing a nicked, bloodstained, clearly-used Greataxe.

As some people say "ooh" on seeing it, he adds "-and, if it's all the same, I'll go barehand too- no need to bring blood into it!"

It'll be just like back home he thought, remembering the tussles he'd been in since childhood.

He comes through the rope and pays the fee. "Here's the five! Where's the fight?"

[15:47, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 15 using 1d20+1.  Rolling for initiative!
He holds an Athletics roll to grapple, if possible.
16:41, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 21 using 1d20+5.  Strength (Athletics) roll to Grapple. [Correct me if I'm wrong on modifiers- he has a +3 from Strength and a +2 from Athletics. ]
This message was last edited by the player at 23:22, Wed 22 Dec 2021.

Also winding her way through through the crowds was a colorful woman playing a violin while dancing to her own tune.  She was wearing a colorful parti-colored outfit that went well with her black hair, deep red skin and horns, and of course her golden eyes.

The bangles dangling from her horns and her tail jingled merrily as she danced along.  Melody kept a smile on her face even though she knew this wasn't her best performance.  Not that she was here to make money... Well, not from performing anyways.  But so far she hadn't seen the man she was looking for.  There were a lot of people here after all.

She nodded to Antru as she passed by him.  She had joined up with his troupe of performers when she found out they were heading to the Faire.  Always good to travel with others when going out into the countryside.  And it made for a great cover while she looked for her mark.


OOC: 12:29, Today: Melody rolled 7 using 1d20+5.  Performance. Ouch the dice roller hates me I think.  lol

Catrina whistles at the appearance of her first opponent,"Woo, they made them big around these parts. I'm getting rather pumped for this match now." she says, then points to the tall man,"Great to meet you Bross of the Tallcuts, though I'd like to have a deadly fight, a bloodless one isn't so bad. Now, this fight begins now!" she says, then makes a jump on the ropes which bounce her off to her opponent, she goes in for a tackle but was surprised at her opponents maneuverability and quick reaction and was quickly grappled,"Tsk, might have underestimated you their, hehe."

07:14, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 6 using 1d20+1.  Initiative.

Yeah, that's the right modifier for grappling. And since you rolled high on initiative, you caught me. Another rule in this match though, you need to hold that grapple for three rounds. The second round, of course, is where you pin the target and the countdown for their end starts.

07:15, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 14 using 1d20+5.  Escaping Grapple.
I couldn't escape for this round but to make this quick I'll roll my escape for the second round.

07:29, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 25 using 1d20+5.  Second Escape Grapple.
Nice
This message was last edited by the player at 23:31, Wed 22 Dec 2021.

Catrina wasn't one to go down that easily, with orcish blood running through her veins, Catrina shakes violently. Inching closely to escaping her grapple.

Whoops I forgot that first grapple check was the contested one, this second one is my action. Sorry, my bad.

You'll have to roll a contested roll too Bross, to prevent an escape. Though with that natural 20, it's unlikely.

18:54, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 9 using 1d20+5.  Grappling 2.

In contrast to Catrina's shaking fury, Bross was grinning faintly- but even more so, now she worked out of his hold. He hums a snatch of a song from home.*

Trying his luck again, he goes in for another cinch...

19:07, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 12 using 1d20+5.  Grappling 3.

* (The song being, partly, about fishing- the relevant bit going "....seems like everything I hooked/ just got away...")

[GM: Passive Perception- how are the crowd doing? Just curious.]
This message was last edited by the player at 00:12, Thu 23 Dec 2021.

Catrina manages to shake off her opponents grab but just as soon she turned around, she was not quick enough for that second grapple,"Sorry, but I'm not the type of girl that goes down without a fight." she says, and instead of struggling, she follows up with a headbutt to the face. Then with an arm free, she goes for an uppercut. That doesn't exactly free her entire body from the strong man's grapple, but it certainly felt good.

08:18, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 11 using 1d20+5.  Third Escape Grapple.

Failed that, but seeing as you don't have a grappler feat, I can easily punch you without disadv.
Action: Unarmed Strike
08:25, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 15 using 1d20+5.  Punch.
08:26, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 4 using 1d4+3.  Dmg.

Bonus Action: Unarmed Strike
08:27, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 20 using 1d20+5.  Headbutt.
08:28, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 4 using 1d4+3.  Dmg

Mekkar had no luck spotting a brewer's booth, so he paused to glance at the contest that had just gotten under way between the loud-mouthed woman and a great hulking brute of a bumpkin who certainly looked the part. ~~She's better hope that he doesn't fall atop her, else he'll squash her like a bug,~~ he thought to himself.

Just about then, a flash of garish color pulled his glance over to one side. There a performer was attempting do amuse the crowd with some juggling. Alleycat had seen better efforts from five-year olds on the street corners of Waterdeep, but whatever the performer lacked in talent, he made up for in bright, eye-stunning colors.

Mekkar strolled over near to where the fellow was performing, keeping a close eye on the daggers and scimitar, in case the juggler lost control of one or more of his blades and flung them out into the crowd. He found that between the outlandish colors of the fellow's leathers and face-paint, coupled with the multitudes of whirling tassles, he was quickly developing a headache. When he was close enough, Alleycat dropped a silver-piece onto the collection plate.

"That's my contribution to helping out your own self-esteem and providing some relief to everyone else's eyes. Buy yourself some black or brown leathers."

~~Pink? How is that even possible? Who would even think of such a thing? And what self-respecting tanner would consent to do it?~~

After a moment's thought, Mekkar fished around in his belt-pouch again and pulled out another silver-piece. "And that's to keep you in face- and hair-paint. I must say, that make-up is more effective than some masks that I have seen. I'll confess that I don't have the slightest idea what you really look like."

"And given what I've just seen of your juggling efforts, I'd venture to say that you are well-served to wear such an effective disguise, lest you be recognized when you are no longer attempting to perform."

Mekkar smiled a thin-lipped smile that evidenced very little humor. "If I were a wealthy man, I'd drop in yet another silver, in the hopes that you would use it to take some lessons from someone who knows what they are doing. But, sadly, I needs must keep some coin for myself, notwithstanding how appalling your shortcomings have been revealed to be."

Sora watched the woman and man grapple with some interest, though her eyes wandered to others- like the performers with dragon and demon blood. It was rare to see a dragonborn, even moreso a tiefling. The woman allowed a smile as the elf juggled (somewhat half heartedly), though trying his best. She heard the man teasing the man and frowned. Sora had a soft spt for teh fey, so she glared at the man, heckling him

She reached into her pouch , retrieving a silver piece and placed it where his coins were, speaking to him in a guttural draconic language.  She smiled and winked at the private interaction as she moved on watching the tiefling dance, sparing a baleful gaze at the man.

But her gaze went back to the two fighting, despite a few gazes meeting sora and her beauty.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:35, Thu 23 Dec 2021.

The heckling dosent seem to phase Antru. If nothing else it seems to make him smile. "My prdie rises with your sweet gesture good sir. But should I buy such things then how would you see me in a crowd as large as this. Nay I'm a fool to be made and as such should stand out all the more." As he continues juggling, Antrue switches to catching the daggers behind his back before tossing them back up in front of him. He gives a laugh at Allycat's next bit but continues on. "So to that I should hide my face, least I scare the crowd. For how fortune would turn should they see. But as for you...A make over? Perhaps a dress? Would suit you well with such a lovely voice." Antru laughs again though this time with the crowd. "But shurly not. Least he become the fool and I the silent shadow of lost talent.!" Its about that time he hears the call from Sora in the guttural Dragonic language. He mearly laughs and gives her a wink as he focuses more on his performance. It seems to pay off as he starts to do more elaborate juggling.



18:18, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 17 using 1d20+1.  Performance.

That was a hellacious thrashing Catrina just gave- enough that many watching in the crowd knew they would already be out cold by now.

Bross was not out cold. Despite the headbutt and smacking he just took, he still had a solid grip on Carina. And, if she somehow got a look, she'd see he was now actively grinning broadly- his expression saying I get to go all-in!, as if a doubt had been removed.

He took a deep breath, through his nose...

[Second Wind Bonus Action (2:51, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 5 using 1d10+1 ((4)) ) Bringing Bross' HP back up to 10.]

...And went to work.

[Now, at this point, I have two plans. I'm not sure if you can DO one of them with these rules, so:

Since he can manage her weight (120 lbs vs his 240 lb lift), I would have Bross lift Catrina over his head (per Moving a Grappled Creature), and try (Using his Strength+Athletics roll) using "Shove" to launch her up five feet (so, if she fails her defense, taking 1d6 bludgeoning for an 11 foot drop and landing prone). Otherwise, she could hit the Superhero Tripod landing if she wanted. :) Either way, the crowd should be feeling it's money's worth!

If that's no good, I'll just have him try to pin her again, to keep it simple. Can I get a ruling?

23:30, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 9 using 1d20+5.  Athletics (Either way). Ah well. I'll chalk it up to him being staggered if it doesn't work. :) ]
This message was last edited by the player at 04:32, Thu 23 Dec 2021.

A little to Alleycat's surprise, the performer seemed to take the Waterdehavian's verbal slings and arrows in stride -- with a smile, no less. The fellow seemed very even-tempered about it, and even flung a few in-kind suggestions back at Mekkar -- at one point suggesting that the black-clad man should consider wearing a dress.

~~Well, I give him high marks for having a thick skin, that's for sure,~~ Mekkar thought to himself.

The quality of the performer's juggling suddenly improved by leaps and bonds, leaving Alleycat to wonder if the earlier woeful performance had all been part of a plan by the garishly-clad fellow that had been intended to play upon the sympathies of the crowd.

He nodded to the other man and mimed a salute, touching his forehead with his right hand.

Judging by the shouts that he could hear over to his right, the big bumpkin and the woman were putting on a good show. But rather than walking over to watch, Mekkar turned and resumed his search for a stall where he could purchase some ale or beer . . .
This message was last edited by the player at 20:30, Thu 23 Dec 2021.

06:19, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 9 using 1d20+5.  Athletics Check.

Oof, a tie. Hmm, a bit difficult to figure out what happened, but here's what I decide

Catrina was about to go deliver another beatdown, but the large bumpkin had other plans. He suddenly lifted her high up on the air and tossed her in order to let gravity do the work. Unfortunate for Tallcut their, Catrina has been training on how to fight in this exact scenario. She raises her leg up high, and like a boomerang, starts spinning right back toward the owner. She delivers a flying drop kick, though her attack was a bit too slow and was easily blocked by the big man, but that's not the end of her assault as she lands back on the surface. She goes for another uppercut of which Bross easily dodged, but it was a feint and her actual finishing blow hit him square on the stomach. Making a loud sound as her fist made on impact,"Phew, good fight, your kind of strong. But I'm a bit tougher in a fist to fist match up." she says, and makes a gesture to a white cloaked individual on the side of the ring. He looks ready to enter if the opponent wish to.

As rule of ties in contested rolls, nothing happened. Even if we return to a grappled state, I'm still gonna punch.
Action: Unarmed Attack
06:32, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 6 using 1d20+5.  Punch.
Miss
Bonus Action:Unarmed Attack
06:33, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 24 using 1d20+5.  Off hand Punch.
06:33, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 5 using 1d4+3.  Dmg

This message was last edited by the player at 23:50, Thu 23 Dec 2021.

Antru nods to Allycat as he salutes him. Though he has a slight smirk on his face and gives a wink. "Enjoy the festival! Antru calls out to him as he makes three small jestures between tooses of the weapons he has. He dose them in a way to make them seem more natural, rather than that he was trying to do anything at all. With the first gesture, Allycat's hair turns  the same shade of green as Antru's. The second gesture makes the mans armor/clothes turn to a bright pink. And lastly face paint in imitation of Antru's appears on the mans face.



Using slight of hand three times to cover up that I'm casting Prestidigitation:

You make a color, a small mark, or a symbol appear on an object or a surface for 1 hour

If you cast this spell multiple times, you can have up to three of its non-instantaneous effects active at a time, and you can dismiss such an effect as an action..

18:09, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 25,10,27 using 1d20+9,1d20+9,1d20+9.  slight of hand.

Sorry Allycat I couldn't help my self. You can contest the slight of hand checks with perception if you want to see if you notice me casting. Granted I think you'll have a hard time with two of those rolls.

Sora watched the interaction between the elf and human from the corner of her eye when she noticed the change in the human. She saw the elf and his slight hand movement once, and couldn't help but smirk.

....so the elf had some magic up his sleeve.

She looked at the elf and nodded with a half smile at his attempt at payback, but said nothing, going to a stall that sold fresh fruit, sold by a dreckled face teenage girl with strawberry blonde braids. She reached into a pouch. "Just an apple rhank you."

Her voice was melodic and sweet, and she took the apple with a smile, taking a bite with her red lips parting ever so slightly.

She looked at the girl. "Are these from your farm? Their very nice....can I please have 6 to go....in a small string bag thanks"

The Harvest festival was one of Hargrin Bitterbrew's favorite times of year. Usually. Usually the dwarf wasn't running late; his ceremonial gear still a bit askew as he tried to make one-handed adjustments on the run while the other pulled a handcart this year's contribution to the contest. He'd been experimenting with some honeyed brews of late and needed to get his treasures to the judges before it came time to take up his actual duties with Chauntea's other devotees in thanks to the Lady for the year's bounty. The Cleric shouldered through the crowd with mixed success, born from a combination of sturdy persistence and locals giving way upon recognizing the stout figure. A few even called good luck to him. Hargrin smiled amiably and waved back in acknowledgement- and put on the breaks with a sharp pivot to the right to avoid running into a pair of legs he'd not noticed crossing his path.

He looked up at the human to apologize and promptly lost the thread of his original impulse. Those were certainly colors. Almost certainly none found in nature, though he didn't think it took an acolyte of Chauntea to tell that. A performer, was he? Not a native of Greenest, at the least. "You... ah... have something on your face." He volunteered blandly to Alleycat, all helpfulness. "Right about here." The Cleric touched a blunt fingertip to his right cheek, his original destination forgotten as he stared bemusedly at the man in the bright pink leathers and face paint.A particularly insightful individual might notice the gruff dwarf valiantly trying to hold back snickers that threatened to erupt.

OOC: Not gonna roll deception on that- he's not trying all that hard.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:35, Fri 24 Dec 2021.

Bross had her. Tossed her upward like a sack of potatoes into a loft. And then lost her in the lights, as she spiked back down feet first, like some god's bolt of vengeance.

Well, he thought, wryly I did want to know what she'd do if I did that...

He pushed her slightly as he took a step back, and so she just barely missed the mark, thumping loudly on the ground. He was about to say something back at her, but she stayed on the attack, pressing her advantage with an uppercut. He slipped past it, in a practiced motion.... right into her followup- hard enough to make him take a step back.

[That brings him back down to 5 HP again.]

He wasn't performing, and neither (he assumed) was GreySky, but that didn't matter- he'd just thrown her at least five feet in the air, she came back down fighting, and he didn't go down. This was Main Attraction stuff, and they knew it.

Through the sound of the pulse in his temples, he heard her saying something...

Wait.

Circling (and, a practiced fighter would notice, keeping his distance from Catrina and getting his wind back), Bross held a hand up to the hooded figure: "No harm to you, friend, but just a moment."

Turning to Catrina, and pointing casually he added: "Ma'm, I paid you my money, and you didn't pin me." Over the 'she didn'ts' of the crowd, he added " You hit like a mule kicks, but I almost had you ...and there was naught about a time limit. Now, that gold goes to my family farm. Not down an ale-mug. if you've got my five and your fourteen, I'm a song on the breeze, but otherwise..."

He takes the pointed hand back, and curls it into a fist, same as the other.

The crowd, recognizing Act Two was starting as Bross was going to keep trying, make the universal rising "ohhh" of 'this is gonna be grand.'

"... f'sure, I haven't hit you yet."

This time, he held his attack, cagey but not cowardly. (And, of course, she could always pay to get rid of him...)

Action: [Holding for when Catrina gets into reach, and not paying] Unarmed Attack
22:46, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 25 using 1d20+5 ((20)).

Now, I believe damage is the base 1 (bludgeoning) +3 (STR bonus, I don't think the extra +2 Athletics applies) but it's also a Nat 20, making it a critical hit. Since there's no "dice" to "reroll and add" (it's just flat amounts), does that just double the damage, or should I roll something else?

Also, I'm kind of seeing if he can get the crowd to throw loose change at them as "applause". Or at least get a "fight! fight!" chant going. ;)

This message was last edited by the player at 04:21, Fri 24 Dec 2021.

The hoots and cat-calls that broke out amongst the crowd were what alerted Mekkar to the fact that something  interesting must have happened. He had already turned on his heel to go in search of some refreshment when all the noise and hubbub caused him to stop short.

To his horror, he saw that his armor was now the same disgusting shade of pink as the performer's. His mirror was packed away somewhere in his backpack, so he could not confirm the rest of his appearance, although he did have a sneaking suspicion.

~~So much for my getting some beer, looking like this,~~ he thought to himself.

Back in Waterdeep, where The Shadows had a reputation to uphold, it would have been worth a man's life -- or at least his health -- to make sport of a guild-member in such a fashion. No one would have dared. Or, if he -- or she -- had,  the example which would have been made would have dissuaded anyone else from acting so rashly.

But this was most certainly not Waterdeep. And no one here had ever heard of Alleycat. He was not expected to uphold the tough, no-nonsense image of The Shadows. ~~Nor should I,~~ he quickly decided. ~~I can't think of a quicker way to bring unwanted attention to myself. Well . . . other than wearing pink armor and having green hair, mayhap.~~

Still and all, being the butt of jokes and jests was not the same sort of attention as would be garnered by taking a rough sort of revenge. No, 'twould be much better to roll with the punches and laugh it off, Mekkar decided.

And so it was that Alleycat turned back to face the raucous crowd and raised his arms over his head, clasping his hands in the manner of one who had just won a contest.

Raising his voice, he called out "Ladies and gentlemen! Let my sad spectacle be a lesson to you!"

"I was miserly in my donations to the great and wondrous . . ." here Mekkar had to squint to see the name that was writ on the placard that was lined up alongside the donations plate . . . "the great and wondrous Antru, and here before you, you see the results!"

Mekkar slowly turned in a circle 'til he was facing the crowd again. "Do not make the same mistake as I did, lest you return home wearing pink smallclothes if you are a gentleman -- or none at all, if you are a lass!"

"Learn from my poor circumstances, I prithee, and be generous in your donations to support this most worthy performer!"

Alleycat had taken his cue from the old "Dead Man Walking" scam. In that instance, a poor fellow who was clearly on Death's door was restored to perfect health by someone who was hawking some sort of a snake-oil elixir. This was similar, only the reverse -- Mekkar had started out looking normal, and ended up looking like . . . well, like he looked now.

Thus, while "Dead Man Walking" used a carrot, Mekkar was using a stick -- but he suspected that the results might well be the same. And at the same time, it made it seem like he had *intended* to look like this when all was said and done -- 'twas all part of the performance, you see.

Hopefully it would preserve a bit of his dignity until he could convince "the great and wondrous Antru" to reverse what he had just done . . .

Just about then a Dwarf who was definitely not part of the reverse Dead Man Walking scheme strolled up and seemingly  did his best not to break out laughing at Mekkar's appearance. ~~Ah, I was right about the face-paint and the hair -- magicked in some fashion, I am guessing,~~ Alleycat decided.

Draping his arm around the Dwarf's shoulder, he quarter-turned and pointed towards the collection plate. "There you are, sir," he said. "And might I suggest that pink smallclothes would look especially unattractive when worn by one of the Stout Folk."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:59, Fri 24 Dec 2021.

Personally, I'd roll it that you get double the damage. You did get a Crit and all. Anyways

Cat is now at 3 HP

Catrina was rather confident that she would get a clean victory here, but it seems the bumpkin decided otherwise. His comparison to her techniques kind of tick her off too so she approached him,"A mules kick!! Why I oughta... Geh!" she stopped at mid-sentence as the big man delivered his fist straight to her chest. It delivered the same amount of force that her feint delivered. She coughed up some blood, but then starts laughing,"Hehe, so you want me to pin you down huh. Alright, as a GreySky, I'll give you your money's worth and pin you down, whether your out cold or not. Doesn't matter to me, either way, I'm winning this match my friend" she declares, wiping some blood off and feeling excited at a worthy fight. She runs charging toward one of the rope railing, jump on it which in turn, it propels her toward Bross. Looks like she's going for a tackle, but it was another feint as she easily slides between her opponent's legs. As Tallcut turns around to meet Catrina, he sees in a blink of an eye that she stands at one of the stakes,"Fraid this is it friend. My condolences to your family farm, but I'm taking your gold. Now, TIME TO DELIVER YOU A GREYSKY STYLE SLAM DUNK!" she shouts, and makes a great leap toward Bross. And just in a few seconds, everyone close to the stadium could hear the impact, as Catrina delivers an elbow drop down on Bross's shoulder, knocking the farm boy out of commission. Cat then pins her opponents unconscious body, while the white cloaked approaches and starts counting down. Once he reached zero, he declares Catrina GreySky as Victor, and heals off any lingering wounds each combatants had obtained.

Action: 13:15, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 9 using 1d20+5.  Unarmed Strike.
Whiffed

Bonus Action: 13:16, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 14 using 1d20+5.  Unarmed Strike.
Hah, Just hit your AC Bross
13:17, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 5 using 1d4+3.  Dmg
For a finishing move, I'm just gonna flavor it.

13:20, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 12 using 1d20+3.  Performance Check (Just to see how entertained the crowd was).

A good amount of audiences are here, especially good since this is Cat's first debut. Too it's definitely small compared to other performers nearby.

In reply to Alleycat (msg # 24):

Antru catches both his dagger and sword. Slipping them away he laughs loudly to gain the crowds attention after Allycat's speech. Extending his arm and with a slight bow to Allycat. He then address the onlookers. "Lets hear it for our friend! I'd always heard that imitation was flattery, but today it has been brought before our very on eyes! Come now shall we give his dignity back?! A round of applause if you will." Antru starts to clap and encourages the crowd to do so as well. Feeling like he wasn't getting the response he wanted, he calls to the crowd again."Come now! You can do better than that! This seemed to get the response he was looking for. With a smile and a wave of his hand, Antru returns Allycat back to normal. "Its a joyous night! Lets all enjoy the festivities! And if you found some amusement in mine or another's act, then please give us a contribution! We cannot do what we do without your support!"  Taking up the collection plate, Antru accepts what coin is offered him, as he speaks here and there with a few audience members. He makes sure to slip close to Allycat and whispers a thanks to him.


Using slight of hand to return your two slicer Allycat. Contest it if you like.

22:31, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 19 using 1d20+9.  slight of hand.

Hargrin oblinglingly went with the hand on his shoulder and quarter-turn, but guffawed at the man's comment. "Friend, I grew up with four sisters." He told the now-restored Alleycat with an open grin. "I promise you, my smallclothes have been pink on at least three separate occasions- five if we're counting the accidents. And let me tell you, I made it look damn good. 'S how I got my first girlfriend, as a matter of fact. But that's a story meant to be told after a few drinks."

"However," The Dwarf turned back to Antru when the performer approached, "I'm always happy to support those who put a bit of joy out in the world. As the Mother says, 'Let no day pass in which you have not helped a living thing flourish.'" He reached into his coinpurse and dropped a gold coin on the collection plate. "That goes for people too."

The dwarf directed a pointed look at some of the locals he recognized nearby- particularly those few he knew had had a good and prosperous year.


Roll for guilt trip!


11:13, Today: Hargrin Bitterbrew rolled 21 using 1d20+2.  Persuasion.

I used Persuasion- take 2 off of that if you'd prefer Intimidation, DM.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:15, Fri 24 Dec 2021.