Heroes Game (4E D&D Campaign Thread)

[FireSickle]

The Players
Ter'Yav Mor, Half-Elf Bard (Dekkah)
Yila, Elven Ranger (Cilvyn)
Ranjeesh Ithnan, Dragonborn Paladin/Sorcerer (OMG PONIES)
Arothel Lannan, Eladrin Wizard (Viracocha)
Tingle Riverfoot, Halfling Warlock (kornwiser)

OOC Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=9586548#post9586548)

The Setting

The Nentir Vale is located just west of the center of the continent of Cambrin. Not much is known of the world beyond Cambrin, and since the Cataclysm, most detailed maps and knowledge of the continent have been lost or forgotten. Local cartographers and historians have a detailed map of the Vale, here (http://www.firesickle.com/images/NentirValePlayerMap.jpg).

Each of the players has been born into a family of notoriety, whether nobles, adventurers, or war heroes. Each for his/her own reasons has chosen to seek a name for themselves to follow in the footsteps of their heritage.

The party first learned of the bounty for recovering the lost heirlooms while visiting Winterhaven for the Summer Games event held once tri-annually. The event draws crowds from far across Cambrin. Local Proprieter Bairwan Wildarson commissioned the group to seek out these heirlooms with the promise of a 6000 gold piece reward. The group inquired as to Bairwan's interest in these items, he maintained that he himself was offered a bounty for them but in his old age has grown weary of adventuring, thus he sought out bright young stars to make a name for themselves. Under scrutiny (successful sense motive), Bairwan's intentions appear benign.

The party's search for clues lead them all across the Vale, visiting Hammerfast, Fallcrest, and many of the small hamlets with deep routes and long histories in the area. After uncovering some clues as to the location of the Farnsworth Heirlooms, the party traveled east, passed Hammerfast, into the Caves of Roo where they battled a Gnoll society which worshiped the area the items were locked in. Upon defeating the Gnolls, the players recovered the items. The items are a large blue Shield and a crimson red Longsword whose blade is crystalline (checks for magic were fruitless, these items seem more decorative than magical).

They return to Winterhaven and the game begins as they approach town.


House Rules
Ignore Identify rules in the PHB.

Ritual Identify
Level: 1 (classes that can use rituals as a class feature gain this ritual free).
Category: Divination
Time: 1 hour
Duration: Instantaneous
Component Type: Metal (Platinum, Gold, Silver, Copper, consumed in a flash of fire during the casting)
Component Cost: 100 GP
Market Price: 200 GP from most vendors
Key Skill: Arcana (no check)

-Effect: The spell determines all magic properties of a single magic item, including how to activate those functions (if appropriate), and how many charges are left (if any). Some magical artifacts are immune to the knowledge of this magic.

Ritual Casters Basically, identifying an item requires an hour and 100 gp (200 for a shop to do it). Detecting that an item is magic requires training in Arcana and a 5 minute rest, at which time you can determine if any objects in sight are magical.



Calendar System
MONTHS (28 days each)
Deepsnow
Wintersend
Newbuds
Warmrain
Flowerfields
Summersun
Highheat
Summersend
Harvestide
Leafall
Firstfreeze
Wintersol

Days of week
Moonday (falls on day 3, 10, 17, 24)
Godsday (falls on day 4, 11, 18, 25)
Waterday (falls on day 5, 12, 19, 26)
Earthday (falls on day 6, 13, 20, 27)
Freeday (falls on day 7, 14, 21, 28)
Starday (falls on day 1, 8, 15, 22)
Sunday (falls on day 2, 9, 16, 23)

Phases of moon:
(The calendar system is directly based on the moon which has a 28 day cycle)
Moonday marks the start of a new phase of the moon, (Waxing, or Waning, Gibbous or Creasant). On the third day of the month is New Moon (no moon) and the 17th is Full Moon.

Calendar Years are based on "CY" for "Common Year"


Commonly understood world history

In events prior to 0 CY, powerful magicians, tinkering with raw magical energy of the planet, triggered a cataclysm.

-8 CY:
The earth twisted and violently ruptured and magic ceased to function. The heavens, hells, and planes collapsed and reformed in a dramatic display of a mass reshaping. Much of existence was shuffled into the folds of the planes. When all settled, beasts, demons, and men walked the material plane. For a time civilization was diminished and reduced to pockets of those holding out in surviving structures, caves, and underground networks

~200 CY:
Many generations after the Great Cataclysm, civilization began to reform and several settlements were re-established. Trade roads and communication began to reform.
Most settlements, strongholds, religions, and other surviving sects of sentience reset their calendar years based on the event. It was adopted as a common year across the lands, and upon the restoration of civilization a common calendar system was adopted.

~450 CY:
A fellowship of powerful paladins campaigned from the Northern sea south to the Nentir Vale where they opposed and banished Orcus to the Abyss.

~550 CY:
Fallcrest re-establishes as the capital of the Nentir Vale and begins to rebuild. A King claims the area and is unanimously heralded by the community, happy to bring glory to their city. During these years the Nentir Vale was liberated of most hostile entities.

606 CY:
Since the banishing of Orcus, dark dragons were no longer hunted and slain. A brood of black dragons had spent many years gathering followers and training them for war. Word was first sent south by witnesses of the activities of the dragons.

610 CY:
The Dragons traveled south to the Nentir Vale from their stronghold somewhere to the far north. They left a wake of destruction miles wide.

610-616 CY:
Many cities, allies to the kingdom of Fallcrest, sent support to the area. Sects of wizards came to aid in the battle against these magical beasts. The Elven Kingdom of Essancee sent its best and brightest wizards and sages to aid in the effort. After 6 years of gruesome battle, and seemingly for no reason, the dragons relented. Not much is known of their motives.

642 CY:
Moonday 24, Summersend, 642 CY is Present day. Our heroes are returning to Winterhaven after adventuring to the west for the Farnsworth Family Heirlooms, a red sword and blue shield.

Much of the world outside the Vale is uncharted. The wild is quite harsh and cartographers are hard to come by. Trade routes lead to several cities in the fringes around the vale, but not many travel outside of them. The vale, due to it's limited access over land, has been cleansed of most terrible threats. Those who live in the vale live in peace, unworried by the world which threatens those on the outside. Complacency learned over generations.

The Rules

Set forth by FireSickle:

Timing
Some weeks I will have time all day to check and update the IC Thread, some weeks I will only have a chance once a day or once every other day. I live in Eastern Standard Time (GMT -5:00) and work weekdays from 8am-5pm. The majority of my updates will occur after my work hours and on weekends.

Absences
I understand that we all have lives. If you have a planned vacation or event that will prohibit you from participating for an extended time, let me know and I can either "A: Set your character aside" or "B: Play your character out if we are in combat or a situation requiring it". Of course, if you have any suggestions on which way to go, or what you would do, that would be considered as well.

Dropping and Adding Players
You are not entitled to stay in the campaign, and as such you are welcome to depart at any time. If there is a problem with a player, I opt to discuss this privately with the player and the DM will have executive decision to keep or exempt these problem players. The game should stay at or around 5 persons in the party, if we get low on players, friends of the current players/DM will be considered first and we can resurrect a recruitment thread if that doesn't fill the quota.

Dice Rolling
When posting DM posts, I may ask for the players to make rolls. I like to use the honor system (roll a die in front of you and post that number in a spoiler tag)... If I feel that this system is being abused, I will go to a system where the players use something I can verify, or if drastic, will make rolls myself. Many rolls a player would normally make over the Table Top, I will make and post in spoiler tags.

Tracking Stats and Powers used
Keep track of what powers you have used each encounter, each day and maintain a running track of your current hit points in a spoiler tag at the end of each of your posts.

Role Playing
Keep your IC posts in character. Posting in the third-person perspective is preferred, but using First Person is acceptable.

Posting Format (found this here: http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=46074)
Character Name, Character Race and Class (Optional)

"Character speech, often further differentiated by being colored text, preferably a color different from those of other characters in the game," the characters other actions are written as part of the paragraph, as if in a novel. Character thoughts, which are often not colored, but can be if preferred.

Separating by paragraphs at conversation breaks or at logical action breaks is a good idea. {{Other symbols can indicate such things as radio calls, speech in languages other than the standard assumed language of the campaign, etc. Which symbols mean what should be established by the GM in the OOC thread or in the first post.}}

[OOC: Out of character information goes in a spoiler tag, usually statistical information or questions. OOC banter is usually reserved for the OOC thread.]

OOC Banter
Please keep OOC banter limitted to an OOC thread and in spoiler tags if you feel it deserves to be in the IC thread.

Questions & Concerns, Private or Public
If you are concerned with any part of the game, any players, or even myself you are welcome to raise these issues to the DM (via PM) or in cases where there is an extreme problem, publically in the IC thread. The GM will not tolerate abuse of raising questions in the IC thread, but you can PM the GM 50 times a day with questions if you so like.

[FireSickle]

In the age before the cataclysm, beings of the material plane were the rulers of magic. They invented spells, rituals, and commanded the raw energy magic. Each warden was more powerful than that of 1000 wizards of today. A code amongst the wardens of magic saw to protect that which was, and for a time all was well and wealthy.

A young innovator, benevolently looking to find a common connection between worlds, broke the tenants of his people and created a magical device to transverse the planes. This magical-machine was the size of a large mill, big enough to transport tonnes goods and groups of beings. Upon his first use of the device, an effect of it's harmonized construction caused it's link to the planes to exponentially strengthen and eventually eviscerate the veil between them. The very earth twisted and mountains capsized and the planes collapsed on each other.

In the aftermath, the god of time, Lendor, touched the world and restored the calm. He settled magic and and sorted the planes. In his disappointment, he punished man by removing his rule over magic, forcing man to study and train all his life for even a touch of magic. In the years to come the world healed, and civilization rebuilt. The events of the past are long forgotten, skewed in telling of legend.

[Game]
It is Moonday 24, Summersend, 642 CY is Present day.

The sun set in a brilliant display of vivacious beauty as our heroes lay and watch. It's hard to overcome the excitement of the reward for this successful bounty. A camp was established out of sight of the main road, just east of Winterhaven. The colors of the morning sun rise truly contend that of yestereve.

As our heroes packed their camp, Yila noticed tracks circling the perimeter of the camp. A three shift guard had been established and no one saw anything the night before.

Following the trail leads back to the road and is lost thereafter. After some time discussing, the party set out to return to town.

About an hour and a half outside of Winterhaven....

[i]As you near town, a caw from circling birds catches your attention. Glancing their way, you see the hilt of a sword poking from some brush. The stench of carrion draws your attention just passed and you see several body parts removed from their owners littering the brush... The crunch of stones beneath your boot stirs the feeling of your gut as you the situation sets in.

Perception Roll

[Viracocha]

Arothel

Arothel sniffs the air and makes a face, "What in the gods' name is that stench?" Noticing the remains of a massacre, he strains his senses to find out if the cause is still around.

I assume you mean perception check? No more spot/listen in 4E.
Perception roll: [roll0]

StatblockArothel Lannan (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=244139), Eladrin Wizard
Init +8 HP 30/30 Bloodied 15 Healing Surge 7 (0 used /7)
AC 16 Fort 13 Reflex 16 Will 16 Speed 6
Str 10 (0) Con 12 (+1) Dex 16 (+3) Int 18 (+4) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 11 (0)
Ghost Sound
Mage Hand
Light
Prestidigitation
Scorching Burst
Thunderwave
Shield
Expeditious Retreat
Second Wind
Fey Step
Wand of Accuracy
Burning Hands
Color Spray
Flaming Sphere
Sleep
Ray of Enfeeblement
Notes +5 to saving throws against charm

[Dekkah]

Ter'Yav Mor
Walking at the front of the group, a tall half-elf sing a nice lively tune, using his small drum ties on his let hips to play the beat. His black hair are cleanly cut and combed. You can see his blue eyes scan the horizon, a smile going from ear to ear.
He wear an adventurer cloak, some chain armor, some brown and green clothes and a wide brimmed hat. A small shield hang over his shoulder and a nice longsword styled pummel is resting in a nicely decorated scabbard. Beside his drum, a flute is stowed in a leather pocket.
As the bard spot the body pieces, he immediatly scan the area stoping his song and say,
"Carefull guys, Whatever did this might be still around."
He readies his shield and draw his sword which hum a song as it cut through the air.

Perception : [roll0]


Ter'Yav Status
HP :...38/38...TEMP HP :...0
Surge Value :...9
Surge left/surge per day :...10/10
AC:...19...FORT:...15... REF:...15...WILL:...17...
Main Hand : Harsh Song Longsword
Off Hand : Light Shield

Powers :
Misdirected Mark
War Song Strike
Action point (1/1)
Second Wind
Majestic Word (2/2)
Eyebite
Shout of Triumph
Charger's Call
Slayer's Song
Song of Courage (Daily)

Items powers (1/1):
Harsh song longsword +1 (Daily)
Dwarven Chailmail (Daily)

Consumables :
Healing potion (1)

Effects from Ter'Yav :


Effects on Ter'Yav :

Items Carried :
Ritual Book
Backpack (empty)
Bedroll
Belt Pouch (empty)
Climber's Kit
Everburning Torch
Flint and Steel
Drum
Flute
Silk Rope (50 ft.)
Trail Rations (10)
Waterskin
Harsh Songblade Longsword +1
Light Shield
Dwarven Chainmail +1
Amulet of Protection +1
Potion of Healing (heroic tier)
Alchemical Reagents (Arcana) (120)


Riches :
59 GP
9 SP

Rituals
Glib Limerick
Traveler's Chant
Brew Potion
Comprehend Language

[OMG PONIES]

Ranjeesh, Dragonborn Paladin/Sorcerer

The dragonborn stops, his armor clanging loudly with the momentum behind it. His nostrils flare as he inhales deeply. Turning to Arothel, he growls, No mistaking it, that's the smell of war. Of violence." He makes a fist and moves it down his chest in a winding path--a familiar ritual of prayer for followers of Bahamut. {{"Guard the souls of the departed from the path into darkness,"}} he mutters in Draconic.


[roll0] Perception

[kornwiser]

Tingle Riverfoot, Halfling Warlock

"Phew! If that's the smell of war, Ranjeesh, remind me never to join the army."

Tingle pinches his nose shut, wrinkling his brow in disgust at the stench. He scans the carnage to see if he can figure out whether this massacre came from sword or claw, but keeps one eye over his shoulder to make sure no one (or no thing) is able to sneak up on him.

Perception (first to check the bodies, second to scan the area)
[roll0]
[roll1]

HP: 35/35

[OMG PONIES]

Ranjeesh Ithnan, Dragonborn Paladin/Sorcerer

The dragon-man snorts in laughter, and tufts of smoke rise from his flaring nostrils. "Private Riverfoot...I can see it now. Medical discharge on day one for intense nausea."

[FireSickle]

In a cacophony of capricious commentary, our heroes make their way to investigate the scene. As they near, several scavengers scatter.

Ter'Yav and Arothel notice that there is little blood around these remains. It appears that they have been dumped here. The age of the remains is unknown, but they do show signs of decay and magical preservation. What little blood is here trails off into the brush nearby where a hobgoblin rests peacefully in death; the hilt of his sword resting just in view from the road. The blood and corpse are fresh, maybe even less than a day.

Tingle Riverfoot is unsettled by the situation, and in his disturbed state, sees nothing upon his quick scan of the area.

[Dekkah]

DM
Ter'Yav inspect the remains, shaking in head in disgust.
"Apparently, these have been droped here. There is too little blood and beside I can sense some residual magic, probably to slow the decay. How disgusting."
He stroll to the fallen orc and inspect it,an orc this close to the city.
"This is weird, why would a fresh orcs corpse be here? Anyone of you can find tracks around here? It might give us a clue of what did this, or at least where they came and have gone."
The bard inspect the orc for some clan marks.

Is there any known orc tribes close by and if He find a clan mark where does it come from.
History[roll0]

I assume the body parts are all from different corpses and that no completle corpse can be made out of these right?

[Cilvyn]

Yila 34/34

Yila holds her hand for her nose. Blech, This is just nasty, you guys can try to make something out of this..
She invesitgates the ground en try to find any clues to solve the question what brought these bodyparts here or whatsoever. She looks in all directions to see if there is someone near. Found anything yet Ter'Yav? She keeps looking at the ground and never comes within 4 feet of the corpses while searching.


[roll0] Find tracks
[roll1] screen the suroundigs and horizon

[FireSickle]

Taking in the area, Yila begins to inspect the scene. Several tracks circle this area. How many persons and what direction they went, beyond to the nearby road, is indeterminable. Unwilling to near the corpses, Yila doesn't get a good look at them.

Ter'Yav inspects the body parts. They are scattered about in no particular order. They appear to have been frozen, as the ground around each is damp and there hasn't been rainfall in days. No clothing or personal affects accompany the appendages, and each is a left arm or left leg. They appear to all be human, some clearly male some clearly female. Ter'Yav estimates 13 people total.

The hobgoblin in the brush was not carrying the sword; rather, he was run through with the sword still protruding from his gut. He is wearing peasants clothing and his soared ankles and wrists suggest he was a slave. He has no tribal or slave markings, and is carrying no personal affects.

[Further examination of the scene yields no more information]


[item]Short Sword (in hobgoblin's gut)
[Roll]Knowledge Arcana if trained

[Dekkah]

Ter'Yav Mor
Looking back at Yila,
"Nothing more than the fact that these body part have been frozen, probably using some sort of magic I'd guess.
Also, this hobgoblin probably was a slave. I get that by his clothings mainly. Do you guys know if hobgoblins are used around this area as slave? I dont even think I ever saw one in the city area where I was raised."

Arcana : [roll0]

[FireSickle]

Ter'Yav is reminded of a phrase he once read, perhaps an incantation or ritual... "13 lost limbs left lingering."


[Common Knowledge Slavery is not common in the surrounding area, most kingdoms have forbid the enslavement of intelligent creatures, including goblinoids]

Ritual Casters Look up in the House Rules section of the first post, I put a ritual you may automatically get that is used for identifying. Identifying an item requires an hour and 100 gp (200 for a shop to do it). Detecting that an item is magic requires training in Arcana and a 5 minute rest, at which time you can determine if any objects visible to you are magic.

[Viracocha]

Arothel

"I don't believe slavery is very common". He kneels down to inspect the hobgoblin. "Hmm, could this be tying up loose ends? A hireling killed to prevent talking?"

Perception: [roll0]
Arcana: [roll1]

[OMG PONIES]

Ranjeesh Ithnan, dragonborn paladin/sorcerer

Ranjeesh crosses to the goblin's corpse and carefully pulls the sword from its gut. He lays the goblin down gently, closing its eyes and resting a hand over its heart. {{May the luster of the Platinum Dragon guide your soul to everlasting light}}, he prays in Draconic. He traces yet another curve over himself as he rises.

"I'm thinking he may have been the runner," the paladin grunts as he looks to the group, "payed a pittance to dump the parts, and slaughtered to avoid parting with even those few coins. This was the work of someone as greedy as they are sick."

[roll0] Streetwise check for any knowledge of how the guilds around here function (perhaps by hiring peasants to do their dirty work). EDIT: Grr, looks like I won't be knowing much.

[kornwiser]

Tingle Riverfoot, Halfling Warlock

"All I know is, there's something real fishy about all this. Definitely not a random slaughter."

Tingle picks up the sword and examines it from all angles, trying to see if he can recognize any distinctive features about it to mark its origin.

Streetwise [roll0]

[Cilvyn]

You guys better find out what it's about so we can leave this place She keeps looking around to see if no one is comming. It would be a bit suspicious if someone would see them at the crime scene.
Besides the stench if horrible....

[FireSickle]

Arothel looks at the hobgoblin. It appears 1 day dead, 2 days at the most. The body is covered with bruises and wounds consistent with whipping and chain cuffs. The hobgoblin bears no tattoos or brandings, and his clothing is plain.

[Ranjeesh Ithnan lays the hobgoblin to rest]

The short sword appears average in craft. No apparent markings on it suggest it's smith. This is the most bland short sword Tingle Riverfoot has ever looked at. From the wear in the grip he figures it's bearer was right handed.

[Viracocha]

Arothel

"Hmm, his body shows evidence of being either a prisoner or a slave. It has been one or two days so the killer is surely far by now. I suggest we move on and maybe make some inquiries once we reach the next town."

[Dekkah]

Ter'Yav Mor
Taking a few steps back to get a better view of the scene, Ter'yav says,
"I think this might be the remains of a ritual, an evil one for sure, that have been made here. The hobgoblin might some sort of sacrifice. I cannot rememver the specifics, but I think I have read somewhere some information about a ritual with 13 limbs."
Ter'yav counts the limbs.
"Let me concentrate to see if I can sense some lingering magic around here."
The half-elf start meditating to feel the vibes of magic.

Arcana : [roll0]

Sorry for my lack of replies yesterday, I was out of town.

[FireSickle]

[5 minutes pass]

Ter'Yav Mor senses no magic in the area, though with instantaneous rituals and spells, this is not uncommon.

[FireSickle]

[Ranjeesh Ithnan Knowledge]
There are various guilds in larger cities. These guilds represent peoples of a profession, and there is a legal Thieves Guild in Fallcrest. The guilds sometimes govern who can practice a profession within the city limits. These guilds collect fees for formal permits. Profits from permits and services are taxed to benefit the city. Many kingdoms and smaller villages have no guild system. Winterhaven, for instance, has none.

Slavery is not common anywhere in this land, although no entity rules all of the vale so it is not outlawed everywhere. There is always someone willing to work for hire, but you get the impression this hobgoblin wasn't getting payed.

[kornwiser]

Seeing that the sword isn't special in any way, Tingle tosses it aside, where it lands in the brush near the hobgoblin.

"13 limbs, huh? Creepy. Maybe our noble employer can shed some light on the situation, he said he used to be an adventurer, right? I say we head back to town."

Suddenly, a thought strikes Tingle. "Hey, Yila, do those tracks look like they're the same ones that were around our camp last night? If whoever did this is keeping an eye on us, I'd certainly like to know."

[Dekkah]

Ter'yav Mor
Up finishing his meditation, Ter'yav says,
"There isnt any residual magic, but it could have been a instantaneous ritual, if it really was one."

The half-elf nod at the warlock,
"I agree Tingle, not much we can do here now anyway. I can do some research at the city about this '13 limbs' ritual I have hear of before. I might learn more which could shed some light on this. And beside, I nice hot meal and ale is awaiting us there!"
With a smile, he adds,
"The last one at the Inn pays the first round!"
The bard then start to move on the road again, walking, apparently not caring if he ends up paying that first round, they had something to drink to after all, having completled their first mission.

[OMG PONIES]

"I can second the meal," Ranjeesh says with a smile, "but perhaps I should avoid the ale. Gave me quite an awful headache last time."

Ranjeesh doesn't tell the others about the visions that accompanied the headache, the sight of her. There are some things it is better not to tell those under your protection.

[Cilvyn]

[roll0] To see if the footprints match.
If not the right roll insert the right + modefier

[Viracocha]

Arothel

"Indeed, let's go. I don't think there's anything else to learn here."

[Cilvyn]

Indeed, I rather not stay here

OOC Is there a OOC threat?

[FireSickle]

Yila takes a moment to examine the tracks around the scene with more scrutiny. Yila carefully compares the size, depth, and tread of the print to her memory of the tracks from the camp site. She feels confident that they were not made by the same boot. The tracks encircling this area are numerous, and follow no particular order or path except to go around where the limbs are dumped. They were made by boots bearing a similar impression but, with her keen eye, Yila can see that they are of varying depths and balance suggesting that they were generic footwear on multiple persons.

After an unsettling look at the scene our heroes conclude that there is little more they can do or learn and hit the Kings Road back to Winterhaven.

[An hour and a half passes as our heroes make their way uneventfully along Kings Road to Winterhaven]
Winterhaven

Click here for artist's impression of Winterhaven (http://www.firesickle.com/images/winterhaven-74.jpg)

1. Outer Gate and Walls - Always gaurded by two gaurds, regardless of time, closed at night, open by day.
2. Wrafton’s Inn
3. Market Square - Not pictured, usually sets up just outside of the #6 tower, where a small non-functioning fountain sits. The market sets up twice a week (Moonday & Freeday). There you can find various foods and wares of local farmers, crafters, and townsfolk.
4. Stables
5. Smithy
6. Valthrun’s Tower
7. Bairwin’s Grand Shoppe
Bairwin Wildarson traveled the world, or so he claims, before setting up shop in Winterhaven ten years ago. Bairwin Wildarson commissioned our heroes to seek the Farnsworth Heirlooms.
8. Warrior Guild
9. Tenements
10. Temple - Several dieties worshipped, Avandra being the most prominent.
11. Inner Gate
12. Winterhaven Siege Supplies - This structure acts for the defense of the locals when the town comes under attack, is stocked with water, food, and weaponry.
13. Winterhaven Barracks
14. Manor House


The sun sits nigh its peak in the sky as our heroes make their way to the Outer Gate of Winterhaven. Being Moonday, the market square is very much alive and filled with vendors of various food, gear, and stories. Adventurers and strange folk are common place on days of Market, even more so on days of worship. Under the buzz of the day, the townspeople pay little mind to the band of heavily armored adventurers as they walk up the road.

Many people can be seen entering and exiting the Temple, in front of which, Valthrun the Prescient is entertaining children with some minor illusionary magic. His fool-act garners laughs from anyone in audience, children and parents and passerbys alike. The songs of birds and bugs can be clearly heard over the low murmur of voices in the packed town.

[The guards at the gate will not recognize you from your last visit, as you came to town on one of the busiest days of 3 years past. The guards will direct you to Bairwin's Grand Shoppe before you have a chance to inquire about it, assuming you to be travelers just passing through.]

[You have just entered the city]

OOC Thread I did not start one, if you guys want to, go for it. If you do, can you forward me a link so I can add a subscription to it?

Sorry Had a really long and drunken weekend. I didn't have the sobriety to write the next scene or I certainly would have responded sooner.

[Dekkah]

Ter'Yav
Ter'Yav walk into town and turn to his friends,
"I guess we should complete our quest before going to celebrate. What do you say?"
Noticing the town wizard, Ter'Yav adds,
"I might ask that wizard about the possible ritual we encountered out there. I'll go book an appointment now for later on, when we are done with our delivery."

The bard move toward the wizard entertaining the crowd. When he manage to get noticed by the wizard, he give him a small nod to significate he would like to speak with him.
As soon as he gets the chance, he will tell him, trying to rub it the right way,
"Sir, I'd like to meet you later on, after your done with your show and I am with my errands. This is about some possible ritual signs that we encountered out of the town, which could be 'bad' for this area. My expertise isnt so great, so I would like the opinion of an expert on the matter."

Diplomacy : [roll0]

[kornwiser]

Tingle stretches his arms and looks longingly at the market.
Hey, let's get this stuff back to Bairwin so we can hit up the marketplace. After eating nothing but trail rations this whole week, I could really go for some good ol' meat on a stick."

Streetwise check: Do I know the best place to get some good street food? [roll0]

[FireSickle]

[Ter'Yav]
Ter'Yav tries to gain the attention of Valthrun. Just as it seems that he has his attention, Ter'Yav starts to say, "Sir, I'd like to meet you later on..." Valthrun vanishes and appears again covered in green slime with feathers sticking out of his ears. He flaps his arms about and, upon hooting a loud "gobble", feathers spew forth from his mouth and wisp around the crowd he is entertaining. Several kids scream in delight and chase the feathers around. The adults in the group clap. With a wave of his hand Valthrun is clean and orderly again. He pulls a deck of royal trump cards from his pocket and begins a fantastic display of effects moving the cards around in formations. He narrates a conflict between the royal family of Fallcrest and a foreign kingdom known as Crawford... [it appears you will not capture the attention of Valthrun]

[Tingle Riverfoot]
The smell of roasting meat and various exotic foods is thick in the air. Several stands around are selling foods, cooked, uncooked, single meals, and in bulk. With a passive perception Tingle can see one meat-on-a-stick vendor close by. [Streetwise] The very best food in Winterhaven, reliably, would be a meal at the Wrafton Inn. On days of Market any vendor is hit or miss in terms of food quality. While price often determines quality, sometimes the cheapest things can be the best tasting and the most expensive exotic ones could be the worst. It's a gamble to get great quality food from the market.

[Viracocha]

Arothel

"Indeed, let's finish the business we have at hand so we can get our reward and relax. I don't want to miss the market."

[Dekkah]

Ter'Yav
Bah, I'll the man later I guess.
Being amused by wizard tricks himself, Ter'Yav finaly decide not to disturb the entertainer for now and go join his allies to deliver the shield and sword.

[FireSickle]

OOC
OOC Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=9586548#post9586548)

I will post the next scene soon, I will tie up any tangents that you want to run and have posted before I post the scene (Entering Bairwins Grand Shoppe).

[OMG PONIES]

Ranjeesh Ithnan, dragonborn paladin/sorcerer

Ranjeesh shakes his head gently as his companions are distracted by the trappings of city life. "Come on, friends," he laughingly admonishes them, "we've a job to do. Let's not focus on furlough just yet."

[FireSickle]

The lurid sounds of the Marketplace shatter the serenity of the shoppe as our heroes enter. With creaking reluctance, the port to the Shoppe slowly swings closed and silence falls as they head to the front counter.

Bairwin stands behind the counter, fully locked in steady observation of an elegant ceremonial dagger. The blade itself has a blue shine to it as Bairwin turns it in the light. The hilt is carved out of some sort of black mineral. No doubt the property of the elderly, white haired half-elf standing in front of the counter.

Bairwin sets the blade on his finger to inspect it's balance. He then sets the dagger down on on the counter, and leans back on his heels to rub his chin and ponder. The full girth of his enormous mid section reveals itself under his crossed arms. After a few moments he says, "Indeed, a fine piece, I agree to 500 gp." Simultaneously, he removes one of several pouches at his waist and sits it on the counter next to the dagger.

The elderly half-elf nods and shakes Bairwin's gigantic hand. He picks up the coin pouch and swings on his heels, facing our heroes. A scar runs from above his right brow, through an eye socket covered by a patch, down his right cheek, and all the way across his throat. Scars are visible on almost every exposed part of his body. He pauses and takes in the group for a moment with his good eye. He bows deeply and exits the building. The roar of the market makes it's presence known once again as the door swings open and shut again.

Bairwin looks the players over, inspecting their visible gear. "So, back for more information are we?" he inquires as he pulls a long pipe and pouch of tobacco out from under his counter. He taps some of his blend into the pipe and takes a few puffs before offering it to the nearest person to his left.

The first player to respond is essentially the one to the left, if two people type their responses at the same time, and it's not editted by my next post, I will straighten out everything in a spoiler at the top of my post.

You know, from a prior revisit, that it is customary for Bairwin to share a pipe with persons who are under his hire, as a sign of respect and good-faith.

[kornwiser]

"Well, yes and no."

Tingle accepts the pipe and takes a puff. As he exhales, he infuses a bit of magic into the smoke and it comes out in a softly glowing green ring.

I think, before we ask you for more information, you'd be happy to hear that we've done the job we were hired for."

He passes the pipe to the next person.

[FireSickle]

Anyone? Bueler? Bueler? Bueler?

[Viracocha]

Waiting for an answer in the OOC thread. Asked if we were hired by this guy.

[Viracocha]

Arothel

Arothel takes the pipe. The smoke curling away from it suddenly takes the shape of the heirlooms they were hired to retrieve. "Indeed, the real ones are in our safe possession." He draws from the pipe and blows out some smoke which swirls around, coalescing into five money pouches in orbit around the heirlooms. "And I believe six thousand gold pieces was the promised reward?" He passes the pipe on to the right.

[FireSickle]

[Ter'Yav]
After a few minutes, Ter'Yav relents on his effort to capture Valthrun's attention. Turning back in the direction of his peers, he realizes he missed them heading into the Grand Shoppe. From memory Ter'Yav makes his way to the shop. Before getting too close, his eyes fall on an elderly Half-elf leaving the Grand Shoppe before hanging a right and walking out of view. The half-elf wore a patch on his left eye. [A DC 19 Perception sees his scars]

In a short time Ter'Yav reaches and enters the shoppe. Joining his peers, Ter'Yav engages in the conversation with Bairwin at the front counter.

[Dekkah]

Ter'Yav
Umm, a fellow half-elf, I thought I knew most of them in this area., ponder Ter'Yav as he politely nod to the half-elf he sees outside.
As Ter'Yav enter the shop, he spot his friends already speaking with their employer. He walk to the group and take the pipe, inhaling deeply and letting out a nice ring of smoke.
"Good pipe weed, as ever! So did you guys close the deal already? Some drinks have our names on them at the inn!"

Is this Half-elf known in the area (someone important)?
History : [roll0]

[OMG PONIES]

Ranjeesh Ithnan, Dragonborn paladin/sorcerer

The quiet paladin sits nervously as the pipe approaches him. Clouds the mind, he thinks. Can't have that--don't want another incident. He considers passing politely as the pipe is extended to him, but doesn't want to insult his host's generosity. Instead, he takes the smallest drag he can muster, suppressing a cough as he passes it on.

[Cilvyn]

Yila

She plungs a bit on her lyre. She passes the pipe without a drag. She seems a bit nervous and annoyed at the same time. ordinary people...*mhhhh* she hums a bit while she listens and observe the halfelf and their host.

I think we should get our reward. Then I want to see some more of the market. Sorry if this dishonours your hospetality but I prefer to know the town where I will sleep for the night.
Yila stands up and looks at the rest if they agree with her leaving.
Just for a short while she sais.


to look at the two men.
[roll=Insight1d20+4 For where the scar dude will be heading to 1d20+2 if this is streetwise

[FireSickle]

Bairwin hoots a hearty laugh as he receives his pipe back. He taps its remains out on his heel and begins tamping a fresh pack in while his eyes roam to meet each of the groups'.

"Aye, 6 parts one thousand owed to those who return the heirlooms to me. But how could have possibly found it so fast? Many generations have looked for these lost pieces, so you can understand my apprehension without seeing proof."

Once again, Bairwin sits back on his heels placing one arm atop his portly stomach, propping up the others elbow as he tests the airflow in his freshly packed pipe. Bringing his other arm up, a small flame protrudes from a devices concealed in his hand as he takes a long drag to light the contents of the pipe. He passes the pipe back to Yila for an opposite rotation.

[Ter'Yav][History check for half-elf]
You do not recognize the half-elf who disappeared from you're view before you had time to carefully consider his appearance.

[OMG PONIES]

Ranjeesh nods slightly and blinks slowly. "We were guided by the radiant scales of Bahamut. His mighty light opened our eyes to that which others did not see. Tell us, what other jobs might you have for us?" He remains calm, though he is filled with turmoil at the second passing of the pipe. How much of that leaf could Bairwin possibly have?

[Dekkah]

Ter'yav
Realising that Ranjeesh answer probably wont satisfy Bairwin, the half-elf elaborate a bit,
"Well,Bahamut radiance sure light our steps and I am sure lady luck herself was with us. We travelled all across the Vale for clues, visiting mainly the oldest towns, which had some potential to have good historical docuements and informations. You clue led us east, on the other side of Hammefast, into the Caves of Roo.
You might know that these caves are, or more accurately were infested by some gnolls that considered them holyland. That is where these heirloom were locked away and lost to human civilisation. I guess you should show the man the heirlooms we recovered Ranjeesh."

[kornwiser]

Eager as a hungry housecat, Tingle pulls himself up onto Ranjeesh's shoulders and rummages through his pack, pulling out the crimson sword and azure shield.

"Here they are, Sir Bairwin, for your viewing pleasure, I give you... the lost heirlooms!

Humming a theatrical tune, he swings them out with a flourish and lays them down on the counter.

[FireSickle]

Bairwin shuffles on his feet slightly upon seeing the presented weaponry. Bending at the knees slightly, he reaches under the counter and retrieves a small chest with key. The muscles of his neck flex noticeably as he heaves it onto the counter. The metal corners of the box squeal as he swivels it to face the players, laying the key beside it.

“I hope you understand my skepticism, I have seen many counterfeits in the last few years.”

He presents a small knife and a looking glass. Delicately, he lifts the red crystal sword. After inspecting its angles, he nicks a small mark on the hilt and inspects that with the looking glass. After several moments his eyes light up and a grin grows across his face. Reaching his hand back to one of the many pouches at his hip, he grabs a pinch of powder from it. Dashing the pinch on the counter, he lifts the blade high in the air and slaps its flat edge on the powder. A bang and flash of smoke invite the smell of brimstone into the room.

After Bairwin seems satisfied with the authenticity of the sword, he performs a similar ritual with the shield. “Aye, these are indeed the real thing. As promised, 6 thousand gold pieces.” Tapping his finger on the top of the chest, you audibly hear the lock tumble and the lid bursts open. The gold shine from its contents fill the room.

[Dekkah]

Ter'Yav
"It is quite insulting that you do not trust complete strangers!", says the bard, voice full or sarcasm and a huge understanding smile painted in his face.
As the man is satisfied, Ter'Yav adds,
"Thank you, we do are honnest and able mens. If you have any other job, now would be a good time to offer it."

[FireSickle]

With an overly exaggerated gesture of his arm and a deep bow, Bairwin says, "Alas, I do not have more work. If such work does present itself, I will certainly consider you fine gentlemen, and lady, once again."

[Viracocha]

Arothel

"We will be looking forward to doing business with you. In the meantime, if you would be so kind, could you spread the word that an extraordinary band of adventurers is looking for some tasks to accomplish? Also, where would be the best place to find lodgings? Perhaps some place where the folks can listen to our great exploits." He grins widely.

[FireSickle]

[Head back to my post on 10-18-2010 11:31 AM (i think it's page 1) for some more information on Winterhaven (in a spoiler block)]

Bairwin looks up and answers, "Aye, word spreads fast in this small village. You will need little greasing of the cogs in that regard. Wrafton’s Inn is your best bet of finding lodging within the walls and food after the day's Market dissolves. There is a town bulletin on the outside of the Inn if you are looking for work, although I couldn't say if you will find anything that poses a challenge for extraordinary folk such as yourselves"

[Dekkah]

Ter'Yav
The bard look satisfied with the deal now closed,
"Alright guys, let go get ourselves some nice drink, meals and share this reward. Goodbey Bairwin."
Ter'yav head out, going toward the Inn, leaving the money for the strong ones to carry.

[FireSickle]

The Small Lockbox

Contents
6005x Gold pieces
1x White Gem (100gp value).
17x Silver pieces
1x Odd-looking key (fits and locks the box)

The box is very well crafted and the lock itself is of master craft design.


Roll Call

Let me know what you want to do next. Bairwin Wildarson is still available to converse with if you have more questions.

-There is a job/bounty post board outside the Inn.
-The market has many great items, foods, and services for offer (ie, if you want to spend your money)
-The town sage, Valthrun, won't be performing all night if you want to catch him he will be available at a random location as the Sunset nears.

[Viracocha]

Arothel

Arothel performs an exagerated bow. "Many thanks! We shall take our leave. Food and drink sounds splendid, to the inn!"

[OMG PONIES]

Ranjeesh Ithnan, dragonborn sorcerer/paladin

"Aye, a spot of food may do us good. Mind your wits, friends--no drunken barfights, please."

[Dekkah]

Ter'Yav
smiling at Ranjeesh, "You know me better than that friend. I am a lover, not a fighter! I'll get ahead of you, I want to speak to a few people on the street I know here, from last time we have been into town.I'llo see if there is some new stuff going on in or around this area."
Ter'Yav move out, checking out for a few of his contacts, speaking with various people who appear inclined to chat, while heading to the Inn. As he get to the Inn he order a beer and mingle with the people, seeking the latest news.

I'd like to use streetwise to get news/rumors/events/interesting jobs offers that would/could interest us.
Streetwise : [roll0]

[FireSickle]

[In a private area in Winterhaven]
Before our heroes get too far apart, they take a moment to sift through and break up their earnings. A gold glow emits from the contents of the small chest as it is opened. Each person receives 1201 gold and 3 silver from the loot.

[ITEM: Small Chest, Lock (average)]
[ITEM: Key, Small Chest]
[ITEM: White Gem (100gp value)]
[LOOT: 2 Silver pieces]

The box is very well crafted and the lock itself is of master craft design. The key is made of a brass material and heavily worn and soiled from years of use. The head of the key is designed to resemble a dragon holding a torch to it's opened mouth.

[Entering the Wrafton's Inn]
The sun sets as you follow your peers through town to Wrafton's Inn. With the sounds of the marketplace long gone, it's hard to miss the low murmur of the crowd and the smell of fine foods emitting from the Inn. As a patron exits through the front door, a burst of light from within reveals the calm setting and crowded atmosphere.
Inside the door, a large half-orc asks that you secure your weapons or stow them away if they cannot be. He eyes any spellcasters with obvious disdain, but has little else to say other than to tell you that you may seat yourself.
Few tables remain open. There is a picnic-bench style one near the east wall which has room enough for you and your peers.
A human bard is performing a comedy act on stage with several beautiful women as stage hands. He is acting out a scene where he is a hideous king who is having no luck getting his current wife executed so he can marry his mistress. A few moves too quickly sends his fake nose flying into a gentlemen’s drink in the front row. The large red-haired man bellows a laugh so large that it rings in your ears. Un-phased, the act goes on.
As you seat yourself, a tendress will come to your table to light the lanterns there and take any orders you may have.

[FireSickle]

Good Game gentlemen

Closed