DM Harpwizard’s Heroes of Elsir Vale
Game Master Solaric

Cebrë shows up to congratulate the winner.

She claps enthusiastically for Bofus and occasionally lets out a loud cheer.

Ha! I told them you were very clever!

Cebrë's hair has but cut to just above her shoulders and dyed a deep red. Her clothes have been replaced and a dagger now hangs from her belt.

Ah, Lambeau, you're too kind, sir! Too kind! I take the gold and stow it, then take the rapier and give it a couple practice "swooshes." Yeeess . . . this will do quite nicely! Deucedly fine blade!!
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The stairs did pose a bit of a problem. I ran into some . . . foul weather and had to do a significant amount of fancy footwork to get out of it. It's too bad you missed it, I'll bet you'd be most appreciative. You might hear some rumors about an "accident." ;-)
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But you asked me what my weakness is, and yes, I have one. It's a lack of information. I'm sure that a guy like you is forced to deal with some unsavory characters now and again. I look around conspiratorially, to make sure no one is around Perhaps you can help me out with something. I take out a small handful of gold--10 gp Can you tell me anything about Blackscarzi? Anything you might know--what their MO is, maybe even where they tend to hang out or "call home?"

Cebrë shows up to congratulate the winner.

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She claps enthusiastically for Bofus and occasionally lets out a loud cheer.
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Ha! I told them you were very clever!
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Cebrë's hair has but cut to just above her shoulders and dyed a deep red. Her clothes have been replaced and a dagger now hangs from her belt.

Sorry, I somehow missed this

I start a bit at Cebrë's new appearance, but take it in stride, remembering how awful she looked after her experiences in the two alternative planes.

Well, if it isn't my favorite fan! Don't YOU look better! In a lower, "just for her" voice, I add in wait 'til I tell you all what happened in the tower--why it took so long to finish! Oh, and watch out for Rotskill and his thugs--warn the others.

Back to a normal tone I have a couple things to take care of. Shall we meet in ten minutes at the gate we came in at, then relax at the Wyvern for a celebratory drink?

One drink and another one and one more...this day was exhausting enough to empty a whole wagon of beer kegs.

Florence yawns and offers Bofus some of her candy

Good job Bofus, I was never scared you couldn't make it.

Well, if it isn't my favorite fan! Don't YOU look better! In a lower, "just for her" voice, I add in wait 'til I tell you all what happened in the tower--why it took so long to finish! Oh, and watch out for Rotskill and his thugs--warn the others.

Cebrë laughs a little and smiles warmly at Bofus.

Well, I knew you were expecting trouble so I didn't worry too much. Although, I will have to admit I am well pleased to see you safe and sound. You really are a very clever fellow! I'll relay this to the others

Cebrë then straightens and wears another smile.

See you at the gate then!

She will attempt to make her way to the others one by one and say something like, "Bofus advises to keep an eye out for Rotskill - may be trouble"

One drink and another one and one more...this day was exhausting enough to empty a whole wagon of beer kegs.

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Florence yawns and offers Bofus some of her candy
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Good job Bofus, I was never scared you couldn't make it.

*yoink* Thanks, I love candy!! The only thing sweeter than my 2 favorite fans!! Yeah, drinking heavily sounds like it will be medicinal tonight. I'm glad you had that much faith in me--wait 'til I tell you how dangerous it really was!!

@Cabre: I wouldn't worry TOO much, at least not yet. If anything, he's going to come right after ME, for two reasons. One, something tells me he's not the most gracious fellow at having been bested so badly. Two, I'm certain he *really* wants the Eye of the Dragon, and he knows I have it. That's a topic to discuss over a drink, I think there's more to that gem than the fact that it's shiny!

After the Gauntlet finshes, the day starts to wind down, and the crowds begin filing out of the downs and returning to Brindol for an evening of celebrations and stories to be told in the local pubs. The Heroes of Elsir Vale have become instant celebrities and fans of all ages shout to you and cheer you throughout your walk back to Brindol.

You all find your way back to the Stone Wyvern where you Trabalard Yab welcomes you back to his Inn.

"My goodness, you folks have made a name for yourselves! I had no idea that you would all become heroes! And you are certainly a hero of mine for saving my cousin, Stumblemoss! I cannot thank you enough. I am happy to offer you free drinks on the house tonight! Please relax and make yourselves at home until you are summoned to Brindol Keep. I am certain the Lord with be having a reception for you tonight! So what can I get for you all?"

"My goodness, you folks have made a name for yourselves! I had no idea that you would all become heroes! And you are certainly a hero of mine for saving my cousin, Stumblemoss! I cannot thank you enough. I am happy to offer you free drinks on the house tonight! Please relax and make yourselves at home until you are summoned to Brindol Keep. I am certain the Lord with be having a reception for you tonight! So what can I get for you all?"

Yab, my friend, I'll take a nice glass of wine; I want to toast my fine friends here!

while he gets drinks, Bofus brings out several small sacks.

Here's 50 crowns for everyone--an even split of the assassin's coin. I used up the Chellish coins already, these are more local. Also, Thordak, here's your bet plus winnings--my bookie didn't give me great odds, since I'd been so "lucky" to this point, you won 100 crowns, so here's 350--your original bet, winnings, and split of the killer's loot.
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Now, I could use some help here. I lifted this . . .

here I take out a small vial of green liquid

. . . from one of the thugs who jumped us earlier. I have no idea what it is, but it could be poison for all I know. Anyone care to take a look, sniff, or taste?

I look around to see if we're being watched, and continue only when it's reasonably private (if it's not, this exchange will wait 'til later, but WILL happen ASAP)

Now, when we rescued Stumblemoss, I found a dragon statue at the bottom of the ravine. It had one empty eye socket, and one gem in its other eye. I pried it out and kept it. I place it on the table I didn't bring it up at the time because I didn't want Stumblemoss to claim a share! Anyway, when I got to the tower of the Gauntlet, it occurred to me that the gem hidden in the Gauntlet was called the Eye of the Dragon, so I took this out, and looked through it--I was able to see this one here I take out the gem from the Gauntlet, that was hidden in the bell clapper quite clearly. Now, I know I promised that we'd split this gem's value, but if it's magical, it's best to keep it and use it rather than sell it, doncha think? Cabre, can you tell whether either or both of these carry any kind of enchantment?

One more thing . . . I lifted THIS from Kastoon. here I take out the polished dowel No idea what this is for; I thoguht it would be something in the Gauntlet, but I never saw any appropriate place or use for it. Anyone have any thoughts?

@Cabre: I wouldn't worry TOO much, at least not yet. If anything, he's going to come right after ME, for two reasons. One, something tells me he's not the most gracious fellow at having been bested so badly. Two, I'm certain he *really* wants the Eye of the Dragon, and he knows I have it. That's a topic to discuss over a drink, I think there's more to that gem than the fact that it's shiny!

Well, just remember what happened the last time we were at the Wyvern - I may not be able to scare them off so easily!

Cebrë laughs at the memory of Rotskill running out of the inn.

This was said before we got to the inn

Well, just remember what happened the last time we were at the Wyvern - I may not be able to scare them off so easily!

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Cebrë laughs at the memory of Rotskill running out of the inn.

I'll share that laugh, as it certainly was funny!!

I'm not sure what to make of Rotskill now. He'd be foolish to try yet again a frontal-type assault, as that tactic has failed so many times. So he may try to get at me more subtly, but given how badly I trounced him in teh Gauntlet, he ought to know that would simply make him look MORE foolish--I hope he tries that, I do so like to embarrass him!!
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anyway, did I tell you guys what happened in teh tower with the thug? . . .

Here I'll regale the party--including Yab if he's around and interested--with how I defeated the thug with a rope, a cloth, and 2 pitons. I'll assume if you havent' read it alreayd, you can go back and do so.

I try to get everyone to relive their favorite moments from the day.

Some leveling up has occured. See OOC thread.

As you all sit around enjoying drinks, a number of competitors return to the Stone Wyvern and make themselves at home in the common room. A variety of known guests characters start up conversations with a number of you. In the corner, one unknown young man sits alone staring at a chess board puzzling over a problem.

@Thordak. Atwood Legmar, the half elf from Westdeep greets you with a nod. ”Good evening Son of Throtgar. I see you have found yourself a new totem. Are you to become a wolf warrior?”

@Matthias. Trabalard’s cousin, Stumblemoss Sniveluffikus, comes out and greets you excitedly. Hi Mister Teskerwill! Cousin Trab said that you would be staying here tonight! Do you keep you horse in the stables here at the inn? Do you think you could take me out and meet him? I would love to pet your horse.”

@ Florence Trabalard Yab the innkeeper greets you. " Hello, my lady. I am Trabalard Yab, at your service. Welcome to the Stone Wyvern. I understand that you are looking for a room to stay in tonight. All of my rooms are occupied with the tournament happening and all, but if it is acceptable to her, perhaps Cebrë Hath'we would be willing to share her room with you. We do have an extra cot that we could put in the room if you so wish. Please enjoy your stay, but all I ask is that you do not touch the Wyvern.”

@Mantooth. Durgin Fortkeep approaches you and tries to get a word or two in with you. ”H . . . H. . . .Hello M . . .M . . . Mantooth. Y . . .Y. . . You sure f . . .f . . . fought w. . . .well t . . .today! D. . . D. . . Dogar sure w . . .was m . . . mad at you. I d. . .don’t t. . .t . . .think he c. . . came b. . .b . . . back h . . here a . . a . . .at all!”

@ Florence Trabalard Yab the innkeeper greets you. " Hello, my lady. I am Trabalard Yab, at your service. Welcome to the Stone Wyvern. I understand that you are looking for a room to stay in tonight. All of my rooms are occupied with the tournament happening and all, but if it is acceptable to her, perhaps Cebrë Hath'we would be willing to share her room with you. We do have an extra cot that we could put in the room if you so wish. Please enjoy your stay, but all I ask is that you do not touch the Wyvern.”

You could always stay with *me* Florence. ;-)

Before Durgin can catch him, Mantooth leans in to the group and speaks to everyone in a hushed tone. "I see a man across the room whom I had the pleasure of meeting last night. He seems like an honest fellow, and was only in the competition to raise money for his struggling farm. I thought about letting him win the tournament, but I hit him too hard with my first strike." Mantooth looks over his shoulder quickly then back to the group.

"When Bofus offered me the opportunity to make some extra gold, I took the opportunity so that I could give some money to him to help support his farm. I am going to give him the money I won today, but I thought I'd offer the chance if anyone else would like to chip in. Iomedae will surely smile upon you, and I would offer you my deepest thanks."

Thordak cheers with all the rest very heartily at Bofus' victory and the general success of the day. The first thing he does when he gets back to the Stone Wyvern is to get his tools from his bag in his room and to put them on his person. At Trabalard's offer of free ale, he pipes up immediately. Oh! Well if Oi haven't deserved an ale after today Oi dunno when Oi ever have! Oi'll take ye up on that one, Trabbi!
As he picks up his ale, he winces, and switches to his other hand to avoid putting pressure on the still-painful Hippogriff bite... Owa! That birdie bit me hard!

As bofus hands him the gold, he waits a minute, then hands him back 100 gold. Bofus, Oi never gave you the orginal bet money, so here that is, Oi'll just take moi winnins! he says joyfully, adding the pouch to his collection. Oh, an this is for you too! he says, handing Bofus the 14 gold from the selling of armor. He also gives Mantooth and Matthias their 14 gold.

Ooooh, those are some interesting trinkets, Bofus! Thordak says as Bofus places the gems and the dowel on the table and explains them. You mind? he asks, picking up the dowel, turning it in his thick-fingered dwarf-hands and holding it up to the lamplight.

Appraise: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6
Knowledge, Engineering: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 2 = 18

Oi wonder...

He then picks up one of the dragon's eyes and looks it over thoroughly as well.

Appraise: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (18) + 7 = 25

Hrmmm....Noice! Oi agree, don't go sellin' those! Thordak says to Bofus.

At Mantooth's remark, Thordak chokes on his ale and needs a minute before he stops hacking and coughing. PPPPBBBGGHHH!!!!!! ACKGH!! AHGKCCKGH!!....Wot!? All yer gold? That's....That's mighty...aah...generous... he says diplomatically. Oi...Oi ah...yeah, Oi guess Oi would help him out too, Oi guess... Thordak says, grudgingly handing over 25 pieces of his well-won gold.

As Bofus offers his room Florence arches an eyebrow

Mhh, let me think about it: I like Beechnuts, you're a wealthy man, eh halfling, you mastered the Gauntlet, you are a champion of the Elsir Vale tournament...mhh maybe...mhh I think you look like an eligible bachelor, dear Bofus!

She slaps him on the shoulder and adds

But today I'm tooo exhausted for anything but drinking, so I take the innkeepers offer and Cebre's room, if she permits.

Wearily inspecting the things Bofus has brought along, Florence sings with a low voice

I'm tired of being a dragon,
Ferocious and brimming with flame,
The cause of unspeakable terror
When anyone mentions my name.
I'm bored with my bad reputation
For being a miserable brute,
And being routinely expected.
To brazenly pillage and loot.

I wish that I weren't repulsive,
Despicable, ruthless and fierce,
With talons designed to dismember
And fangs finely fashioned to pierce.
I've lost my desire for doing
The deeds any dragon should do,
But since I can't alter my nature,
I guess I'll just terrify you.

As Bofus offers his room Florence arches an eyebrow

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Mhh, let me think about it: I like Beechnuts, you're a wealthy man, eh halfling, you mastered the Gauntlet, you are a champion of the Elsir Vale tournament...mhh maybe...mhh I think you look like an eligible bachelor, dear Bofus!
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She slaps him on the shoulder and adds
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But today I'm tooo exhausted for anything but drinking, so I take the innkeepers offer and Cebre's room, if she permits.

*blink* *blink* Why, my dear, I was simply offering you my room--what are YOU insinuating?!?! *whispered* whatever it is, I like it!!

Wearily inspecting the things Bofus has brought along, Florence sings with a low voice
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I'm tired of being a dragon,
Ferocious and brimming with flame,
The cause of unspeakable terror
When anyone mentions my name.
I'm bored with my bad reputation
For being a miserable brute,
And being routinely expected.
To brazenly pillage and loot.
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I wish that I weren't repulsive,
Despicable, ruthless and fierce,
With talons designed to dismember
And fangs finely fashioned to pierce.
I've lost my desire for doing
The deeds any dragon should do,
But since I can't alter my nature,
I guess I'll just terrify you.

Ha! What a marvelous song! And so true, so true . . . reminds me of that old story of the frog and the scorpion . . .

Can you, Florence, or you, Cabre, detect whether this potion or these gems are magical?

@Thordak: Oh, I was sure I'd kept your original bet--perhaps I'm misremembering. OK, I'll trust your head for your own money, my friend--and thanks for the share of the other loot. 'To the victor,' eh??

I take the coins Thordak gave and place them in a small bag, and go to put it away.

Cebrë drinks her wine and smiles, obviously enjoying Florence's song.

After the song is finshed, she replies to Bofus;

Most likely, if the magic is strong enough - I may even have some sort of idea of what it does. Why don't you follow me up to my room with the items...Florence, you want to bring your things up?

Assuming Bofus and Florence agree to come to her room:

Cebrë leads them to her room, on her way she puts the bag of gold she received from the dwarf on the table in from of Mantooth kissing him on the cheek as she leans over.

She then continues to her room;

Cebrë closes the door, puts both items on a table (or nightstand) and casts detect magic. She sits and studies the auras studiously for several minutes.

Now, you'll have to be a bit patient Bofus...like I told you before, this takes some time, depending on the strength of the magic; if there is any....

Knowledge,Arcana (potion):1d20 + 9 ⇒ (9) + 9 = 18
Knowledge,Arcana (gem)1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23

Florence watches attentively, waiting to hear Cebre's ideas.

Sure, I'll follow--heck, while we're at it, throw this dowel down there too. I doubt it's got any dweomer, but you never know!

I'll place gems, potion, and dowel on the table, and eagerly await Cebrë's results.

This is quite exciting! Florence, you had something you though might be magical as well? Cool!

I? Something magical? No, not besides my Panties of flowery Smell, no.

I? Something magical? No, not besides my Panties of flowery Smell, no.

I immediately reply PROVE IT!! *wink*

actually, I simply confused myself. When Cebrë invited Florence to "bring her things up," I simply misunderstood that as "things you want checked for magical aura" rather than "your things you bring to your room." :-) heh.

Ah, kay, I double checked my sheet just to make sure I haven't forgotten my sword +3 :)

hmm...Well, that potion has some sort of divination magic about it....the gems, ah! these look interesting - they're sisters....they appear to have a couple of auras....very interesting!....ah the dowel....it apears.... to....be.....umm....wood!

Cebrë laughs but continues to examine the auras muttering arcane words under her breath

Cebrë continues to study the aura, then suddenly, she claps her hands together.

Ah yes....this is a potion that allows one to understand languages...
And the gems...well, they should make things clearer, you know; see better as you look through them...there's something else about them though...not really sure what it means but has to do with conjuring magics....maybe after a good rest I'll be able to make it out.
Anyway...let's go out at have some more wine, shall we?

Ah yes....this is a potion that allows one to understand languages...

And the gems...well, they should make things clearer, you know; see better as you look through them...there's something else about them though...not really sure what it means but has to do with conjuring magics....maybe after a good rest I'll be able to make it out.
Anyway...let's go out at have some more wine, shall we?

OOhh, neat!! So . . . I pick up one of them and look through it I should be able to see clearer through this? This could come in VERY handy for me in searching for stuff. I wonder if we could juryrig some sort of headband to hold it in front of my eye permanently! And *both* of these have the same properties too?? Hey--I wonder what would happen if I looked through BOTH AT ONCE!!

Before anyone can object, I pick up both and look through them, one over each eye. hehehe

do we get to find out the in-game specifics/stats too?? :-)

You are all welcome to look at what Cebrë has revealed about the gems. However, as Cebrë said, there is also a strong Conjuration aura that she detects, but properties that she is unable to identify.

Neat! I believe we're definitely going to want to
-- see whether there are greater/different effects for both gems used simultaneously
-- see whether we can juryrig some sort of holster/eyepatch device that will allow one to use one (or both) while keeping hands free
-- share this treasure with the party--unless the pair should stay together for greater effect, one should probably stay with Bofus; not sure about the other one though
--find out the hidden properties!!!

Wow, these are great. We should definitely keep these! I don't know who should carry the potion, but I don't mind doing it.
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Now, who said something about more wine??

I'll go back downstairs, and share what we learned with the rest of the crew.

folks should speak up if they think they would like to hold one of the gems for the +5 Perception--it definitely benefits us all for me to have one of 'em

I'll enjoy the party atmosphere in the tavern until we're summoned to the Keep. I will be fully armed, including armor. (Even if it is considered unseemly, I'll do it unless I'm forced not to--I was attacked in the Gauntlet and rightly fear for my safety!) I'm also planning on bringing the dowel (hidden), my new Thieve's Tools, and the gem and potions I have, but no other equipment.

Actually, one thing I do want to do in the tavern: Gather Info check regarding Elzyrinth Vrath
Diplomacy (Gather Info): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (7) + 6 = 13

When Cebre, Florence, and Bofus go off to play with their jewels, Thordak also goes upstairs and changes. He takes off his crossbow and quiver, flail, extra weapons, and armor. He also stowes some of his gold most securely. He tucks his dagger behind his beard and heads down stairs with his medallion swinging from his neck. Realizing he still hasn't seen captain Lars and told him about Lulu, he returns to his room and gets the broken manacles, tucking them into his belt as well before going downstairs again.

As you all sit around enjoying drinks, a number of competitors return to the Stone Wyvern and make themselves at home in the common room. A variety of known guests characters start up conversations with a number of you. In the corner, one unknown young man sits alone staring at a chess board puzzling over a problem.

@Thordak. Atwood Legmar, the half elf from Westdeep greets you with a nod. ”Good evening Son of Throtgar. I see you have found yourself a new totem. Are you to become a wolf warrior?”

As the Elf adresses him, he chuckles, shaking his head. Oh, not really! Oi don't think you could call it a totem... but it would be nice to have a beast like that on moi side!

@Florence

I wish that I weren't repulsive,

Despicable, ruthless and fierce,
With talons designed to dismember
And fangs finely fashioned to pierce.
I've lost my desire for doing
The deeds any dragon should do,
But since I can't alter my nature,
I guess I'll just terrify you.

Trabalard Yab catches the end of your song. "My dear, you have such a lovely voice. Is that a song about the stone wyvern?"

@Cebrë

@Bofus.

You all enjoy a relaxing evening, retelling stories around the fire and taking delight in each other’s company.

@Thordak

...Wot is a wolf warrior, exactly?

The half elven archer laughs and replies kindly, “Well, a wolf warrior is a person that has abandoned the ways of society and left civilization to go live with the wolves. They become part wolf and start a new life with the pack. Eventually they forget all of their past connections with society, begin howling at the moon.”

@Mantooth

@Everyone

Soon, Captain Lars Ulverth limps into the Stone Wyvern with a few of his Brindol Lions at his side and addresses all the guests. ”Good evening, my good folks. Lord Jarmaath, the high lord of Brindol, requests your presence for a banquet in all of your honor. He wishes to personally congratulate the winners and say his farewells to you before departing our fine city and returning to your homelands. We will be leaving in a few minutes if that suits each of you."

Anything else need to be said or done before you leave? You may always retcon.

@Florence

@Thordak

Thordak talking to Atwood wrote:

...Wot is a wolf warrior, exactly?

The half elven archer laughs and replies kindly, “Well, a wolf warrior is a person that has abandoned the ways of society and left civilization to go live with the wolves. They become part wolf and start a new life with the pack. Eventually they forget all of their past connections with society, begin howling at the moon.”

HRAAAHAHAHA! Well thanks for that one, Atwood! Oi'm glad ye think so highly of me! Thordak says with a wink and an elbow. Howlin' at the moon! Hrah! Thordak chuckles, taking another swig from his tankard and wiping his mouth with the back of his hand.

As Captain Lars comes in, he stands up and approaches him Ah, yes! Jus the man Oi was lookin' for! he says, pulling the captain aside and speaking in a lowered voice. Here, Oi got these fer you! he says, handing over the manacles. Busted that Hippogriff out, she flew off to the North... Oi, an' don't think she'll be comin' back here any time soon... he says remorsefully.

Yup! Oi'm ready to go then! he says, hiking up his pants and straightening his beard.

Florence smiles

Oh, no, we found a pretty trinket that reminded me of a song I once heard about a dragon, but I also know one about a wyvern that lived by the sea and didn't like visitors

There was once an old wyvern who lived by the shore
In a cave where no fishermen came anymore
And the boulders would rumble whenever he'd snore
In that cave by the side of the sea.

So we come to the heart of the lesson at last:
If a wyvern's asleep and a human walks past,
If the human is you, better run away fast -
Ah, but if you're the wyvern, enjoy!

@Florence

The innkeeper smiles politely, trying to hide his nervous thoughts, but asks, "Do you think that all Wyverns are that terrible? Do you think that a petrified creature could be returned to real scale and claw from stone?"

@ Thordak

Busted that Hippogriff out, she flew off to the North... Oi, an' don't think she'll be comin' back here any time soon...

”Son of Throtgar, you say it with such sadness in your voice. I think it is all for the best. She wouldn’t have been very happy with the restictions that we would have put on her here. At least now she is free as a bird, and the people of Brindol are safe. You have done a great service for Brindol, my good dwarf. Thank you! Now if we can just make the city safe from all of its human inhabitants as well.”

@Everyone

Captain Lars Ulverth waits until everyone has gathered up their belongings and then begins escorting you across town to Brindol Keep.

”Well the city of Brindol is all very excited about your successses, my friends. You have all made quite a name for yourselves. I know the Lord is looking forward to seeing you.”

You arrive at the main gate where you are met by a Seargant of the Brindol Lions. ”I would kindly ask that you leave any weapons that you possess here at the gate, my ladies and gentlemen.”

Please let me know if you decide to keep any of your weapons hidden on yourselves.

You arrive at the keep where bright banners are hung and many candles are lit. The long white bearded harpwizard sits near the fireplace playing on his harp of gilded gold. Several great long tables are spaced around the hall with place settings of fine silverware laid out at each table. As you enter the great hall, the music briefly stops, and a herald loudly announces your entrance.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, I am pleased to present the Heroes of Elsir Vale. Please welcome, Florence Danapieré of Galt, bane of the Great Winter Wolf, Thordak, son of Throtgar or the Hammerfist Hold, Champion of the Bolt and Arrow, Matthias Teskerwill of Brindol, Champion of the Steeple Chase, Manooth Longbrow of Prosser, Champion of the Armed Combat, Cebrë Hath'we, Champion of the Arcane Challenge, and Bofus Beechnut of Hillwatch, Champion of the Gauntlet!”

The crowed politely applauds as you enter the great hall. You are all escorted to a large table at the front of the hall where you are seated at a table with Lord Jarmaath, Ambassador Stainak, Verasa Kaal, and some of the most influential members of the city.

The Lord of Brindol gets up and personally greets each of you.”Welcome my heroes, I speak for all of us when I say that we are honored by your presence. Please have a seat and join us in our repast.”

Cebrë's appearance with the red dye gathers a repulsed look from the ambassador and some of the others, but Lord Jarmaath greets you with an embrace, and a kiss on the cheek. "My dear Cebrë, you are always full of surprises! You certainly have embraced the festive atmosphere of the tournament with great enthusiasm!"

Thordak says nothing about the dagger he keeps behind his beard, and attempts to walk through with it.

Sleight of Hand: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (15) + 4 = 19
And how about another +2 that it is hidden behind a large, bushy beard?

If he is caught, he will simply act as if he had forgotten it was there, lost behind his beard.
Oh, will ye look at that! Oh yeah, tha's just me tobacco knife, see? he will say, pulling out his long-stemmed pipe.

Bluff: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (19) - 1 = 18

When he gets into the hall, he will take a seat next to Ambassador Stainak. Howdy Staincrak, how is it with you this fine evenin'? he asks as charmingly as possible in his dwarven brogue.

Diplomacy: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (2) - 1 = 1

Retcon:

Knowledge Arcana1d20 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 2 = 21

My dear innkeeper, there are surely means to unpetrify such a statue...though I wouldn't recommend it.

Present time:

I don't hide any weapons.

Without paying any attention to the etiquette, Florence tries to order a beer or a tankard of mead. Then speaking to no one in particular, she says

Nicey palace you got m'lord...I bet your thralls put alot of work into it, eh?

but she add a sly grin, so everyone should understand that it's just a half serious affront.

@DMHW: I've got one of the Eyes of the Dragon on my person. I'd offered to have another party member hold the other, but no one has bitten. If no one does, I'll have that on my person as well--both in separate pouches, well away from each other.

I'd left the Wyvern with rapier, dagger, sap, and sling, AND wearing armor. At the gate, I'll relinquish raper and sling, but attempt to hide dagger and sap. Since I'll have them in 2 separate places, I'll make 2 separate SoH checks (and hding a dagger is at +2)

Sleight of Hand, sap: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (5) + 9 = 14 <--hmmm, they might find that. If they do . . .

OOPS!! sorry, forgot all about that, was a new purchase today!

Sleight of Hand, dagger: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (12) + 11 = 23 <--that's better

I'll wear my medal, no prob.

And, I'll do my best to pour on the charm and schmoozing to play up my companions' exploits.

later today I'd like to offer to write some of what Bofus saw, since he did watch all the events, as how he'd tell the story to the crowd--I just dno't ahve time right now!

At the entrance, Mantooth looks the guard in the eye and asks him if he is sure he can't keep his sword. "This sword has helped save Lord Jarmaath once today in the ice realm, are you sure you want me to leave it here now? Surely you can trust a Knight of Brindol?"
Diplomacy 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20
If Mantooth is not allowed to keep it he will begrudgingly relinquish it.

Mantooth takes a seat wherever he can find one if there is not a designated place for him to sit already, preferably next to someone he knows. Mantooth gazes around the dining hall, relieved that the day's events are over but still wary of anything that looks amiss.
Perception check 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20

@ Mantooth Retcon with Durgin

"The other champions of the tournament and I would like you to have this 439 g.p. , we trust you will put it to good use on your farm.

Durgin Fortkeep looks at you in disbelief and he puts his hands to his mouth as tears come to his eyes. He is so chocked up with emotion, he is only able to get out a few words.

“M . . . M. . . .Mantooth. You are a . . .a . . . a . . . amazing! “C . . .come and v. . . visit m . . me at D . . .Drellin’s Ferry.“

At the entrance, Mantooth looks the guard in the eye and asks him if he is sure he can't keep his sword. "This sword has helped save Lord Jarmaath once today in the ice realm, are you sure you want me to leave it here now? Surely you can trust a Knight of Brindol?"

Diplomacy 1d20+8
If Mantooth is not allowed to keep it he will begrudgingly relinquish it.

If he's given difficulty, I'll pipe in

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 5 = 8

@Sergeant

Perception 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 = 5

The Sergeant seems very trusting and does not look very carefully for any weapons you may have hidden.

"This sword has helped save Lord Jarmaath once today in the ice realm, are you sure you want me to leave it here now? Surely you can trust a Knight of Brindol?"

The sergeant bows respectfully and replies.

"Very well Sir Longbrow. I am honored to make your acquaintance. You may certainly keep your sword at your side, however, may I respectfully ask you to knot it in a peacebind with this small bit of silk rope."

@Florence and Others

Nicey palace you got m'lord...I bet your thralls put alot of work into it, eh?

The Lord Jarmaath replies to your comment, ”Ms. Danapieré, I do hope you are not implying that we have slaves here in Brindol. Our servants are certainly well paid and highly respected here at the keep!”

Howdy Staincrak, how is it with you this fine evenin'?

"Please my young dwarf, the name is Stainak. You need to clean the wax out of your ears. But do tell me, is this your first time having dinner with dignitaries?"

Good to hear that M'lord, home in Galt we hear a lot of bad things about Chelaxian policy you know? And while I don't believe all those strange reports about succubi and chain devils, I wonder if there is any truth in the things one can hear about the ruthlessness of House Thrune.

Boy, that Florence sure is fun! hehehe I hope we can get out of whatever trouble she lands us in . . .

I'll take a look around the hall, and note who is at this banquet. I'll also note servants and other help who are in and out of the hall--whether any look familiar (thugs) or look like they're particularly shady or uncomfortable, or taking note of any of us unduly.

Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (6) + 8 = 14
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23

In the meantime, I'll get comfy with the important folk, pipin in comments when appropriate, keeping quiet when that's appropriate too.

During a break in her conversations as she's trying to insult folks

@Florence: Hey, I was thinking of telling some tales of the events today--you know, recap everyone's victories in nice, embellished storytelling fashion, make everyone look really good . . . I don't know if you watched all the events, so i don't konw if you can recount the first three. Would you like to tell the stories, or shall I, and you can play some sutiably dramatic and victorious accompanyment of some kind?

Good to hear that M'lord, home in Galt we hear a lot of bad things about Chelaxian policy you know? And while I don't believe all those strange reports about succubi and chain devils, I wonder if there is any truth in the things one can hear about the ruthlessness of House Thrune.

Jarmaath replies casually. "I cannot deny that House Thrune has put its pressure on Hedvend, but here in Brindol I’ve been able to resist those pressures pretty well.

My biggest concern, which affects Master Beechnut, is the increased reports of halflings captured and sold into the Cheliaxian slave trade. Although I hear reports of many missing halflings, the traders always seem to elude our patrols."

Perception check: DC 15

Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23

Heh. Florence really *is* fun!!

*nice and loud* SO . . . who had a favorite part of the Games today? Personally, I loved the Steeplechase. That was so exciting!! Matthias sure showed us what horsemanship is all about, didn't he??

I'm taking special note of Lady Kaal's reactions to that comment.

POST 1000 WOOHOO...ninja Bofus...boo

To Bofus:

Sure shorty, I'll play some old tune with a melody all of this paper-pushers can hum along.

Perception1d20 + 3 ⇒ (9) + 3 = 12

To Jarmaath

Oh yeah, I heard my share of stories about halflings abducted for perverted games of midget abuse...I guess all exaggerations...nevertheless, you cannot allow such things to happen in your demesne my dear lord. You should speak to the ambassador, maybe he can spare some Hellknights who could brings some fiery fervour into your investigations. Oh and since we are already speaking of politics, have you ever thought about installing worker's and soldier's councils? I heard such things motivate the people immensely.

Again to Bofus

Ready for a performance?

If his answer is positive, i cast summon Instrument for a guitar and play something fitting to his tales.

SO . . . who had a favorite part of the Games today? Personally, I loved the Steeplechase. That was so exciting!! Matthias sure showed us what horsemanship is all about, didn't he??

Versa Kaal glares at Bofus for his suggestion. "Yes, yes, I'm sure we have all heard of Master Teskerwill's stunning show of horsemanship, but Mr. Beechnut, I would like to hear of your little escapade in the tower. I am not clear why it took you so long to complete your little jaunt up the stairs. Could you please elaborate on what happened?"

Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (15) + 6 = 21

Thordak is too busy looking down the table to see who else is here, and doesn't really hear Stainak's comment. Wot? Oi guess so, I dunno...

As Stainak starts choking, Thordak turns and gives him a few hefty claps on his back. There there, now, nice an' easy! There's plenty of time to drink yer wine, Master Stainsak! he says wisely.

"Yes, yes, I'm sure we have all heard of Master Teskerwill's stunning show of horsemanship, but Mr. Beechnut, I would like to hear of your little escapade in the tower. I am not clear why it took you so long to complete your little jaunt up the stairs. Could you please elaborate on what happened?"

I put on my best, most self-deprecating innocent smile.

Why, my dear lady, you obviously saw the Gauntlet in its entirey in order to make that judgement, so I can assume you witnessed what I had to do in the Pits? I had to secure myself in case I fell into a pit, because I'm such a poor climber!! These poor, poor stubby legs of mine are just such a bane, woe is me! Besides, I was still catching my breath from the previous exertions of the Pits and the Pendulums. Between my tiny tiny stumps, and tiny tiny lungs, it's a wonder I was able to even make it up those Daikini-sized stairs *at all*! Here I pause for the laughter that I hope my jokes get

*wink at Florence, and jump up on the table, being careful not to knock over food or drink* But what's more interesting to ME is all the other champions' stories! First, there was . . . THORDAK SON OF THROTGAR!! I stride across the table to extend my open hand indicating the dwarf, and lead a round of applause.

Has anyone ever seen such deadeye accuracy and poise under pressure with the crossbow?! Such calm, cool marksmanship was a wonder to behold! Let us not forget how close this was--Atwood Legmar, an exceptional archer, came *exceedingly* close to beating our good dwarf here--he deserves hearty praise as well! *applause* But THIS man--THIS man was the first hero of the day!! I lead another round of whooping and applause.

I continue to stride down the table, toward Matthias. Next came the heart-pounding excitement of the Steeplechase!! Matthias Teskerwell and his mighty steed Prince Kalzoun emerged victorious after a bewildering display of horsemanship and competitive spirit. Who among us have seen such skills?! Who among us have seen such daring?? Such RAW SKILL and determination!! Clearly, he was riding for the pride of his family this day--and by my measure, he has earned more than his fair share!! At "pride of his family" I steal a glance at Kaal, as I want to savor her reactions. I'm such a b1tch. Matthias Teskerwell--another HERO OF THE VALE!!

After trying to draw more cheers, and applause, I move on down the table toward Cebrë. And then, the Challenge Arcana. The lovely and talented Cebrë Hath'we, who stole our hearts at the ball last night with her positively dulcet skills at song and dance also stole the show with a most impressive display of knowledge of the arcane and the natural world. She solved puzzles that would have stumped a Loremaster! She faced an infernal moster alone, with only her magicks to protect her, to wield--and she prevailed!! T'was a terrible and beautiful thing to behold, and I'm proud to have shared the dance floor with such a fine lady. Cebrë Hath'we--HEROINE OF THE VALE!!! I'm certain I won't even have to egg on applause, as I'm sure the Lord will himself lead it.

I stride with purpose toward Mantooth, drop my voice to a serious, grave tone. And then, in the ever popular and ever dangerous Open Combat, we had a splendid show!! Here, HERE sits a man I am proud to call my friend, Sir Mantooth Longbrow, Knight of Brindol!! *applaud and cheer* Mantooth the Mighty, in a positivley frightening display of swordsmanship, felled foe after hapless foe this day, and recieved not a scratch in return!! I'm quite certain that in the annals of the Games there hasn't ever been such a one-sided victory as this. Even in the final match, when the barbarian's second called upon his magic to tilt the battle in his favor by using illegal healing, Mantooth was still able to fell the cheater with deceptive ease--the ease of virtuosity! It was a match I was horrified to witness, but delighted to have seen to the end--to watch a TRUE HERO emerge!! The epitome of chivalric combat, grace, and honor--as well as a BADASS swordarm!! Sir Longbrow, I salute you!!

After what I'm certain will be thunderous applause, I make my way to the head of the table.

Finally, a word about the surpirse Hero of the Vale from this day . . . LORD JARMATH!!! My Lord hesitated not a whit when one of the competitors was in danger; he strode into the icy jaws of peril and faced down a mighty Winter Wolf, whose jaws held death both with it's monstrous teeth and wicked icy breath. Lord Jarmath faced it with nobility and courage--as true a warrior as any I have had the honor to witness!! My lord, it was my honor to fight beside you. You do the people of Brindol proud. I only wish that all leaders were as great and as self-scrificing as you showed yourself to be this day!! I take up my wine glass A toast-- if people don't stand, I indicate to them that htey should--to the surprise Hero of the Vale--LORD JARMATH!!

after drinking, and during the final applause, I'll sit back down, satisfied the proper tone has been struck.