GM Qwerty |
was waiting to see if anyone wanted to place bets
The third round starts as the target is moved back once more...AC14
After some arguing for position in line to throw Jarl Worrik decrees that the most accurate person from the previous round goes first in the next round and so on... a quick decision to avoid any possible fighting... and some bloody fists grumble but grudgingly accept the decision.
Antonio Throw: 1d20 + 6 - 4 ⇒ (17) + 6 - 4 = 19
Local3 Throw: 1d20 + 6 - 4 ⇒ (20) + 6 - 4 = 22
Local1 Throw: 1d20 + 4 - 4 ⇒ (15) + 4 - 4 = 15
SnowFox1 Throw: 1d20 + 2 - 4 ⇒ (20) + 2 - 4 = 18
IronBoar1 Throw: 1d20 + 4 - 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 - 4 = 1
BloodyFist2 Throw: 1d20 + 5 - 4 ⇒ (14) + 5 - 4 = 15
Gustav1 Throw: 1d20 + 1 - 4 ⇒ (4) + 1 - 4 = 1
Two of the seven hit the center mark and Antonio is not far behind them. People are starting to think this broad shouldered outsider may actually have a shot at winning the event. Five make it to the next round with the local woodchopper and the mean Fister among the numbers.
GM Qwerty |
The throwers line up for the next round with the local favorite, Tigin the woodchopper, throwing first with Antonio throwing third.
Local3 Throw: 1d20 + 6 - 6 ⇒ (20) + 6 - 6 = 20
SnowFox1 Throw: 1d20 + 2 - 6 ⇒ (18) + 2 - 6 = 14
Antonio Throw: 1d20 + 6 - 6 ⇒ (5) + 6 - 6 = 5
Local1 Throw: 1d20 + 4 - 6 ⇒ (3) + 4 - 6 = 1
BloodyFist2 Throw: 1d20 + 5 - 6 ⇒ (2) + 5 - 6 = 1
After the last round Jarl Ulfensson declares Tigin the axe throwing winner and congratulates all the throwers on keeping the crowd entertained. Tigin is given a golden arm band from Lady Tessa as a reward. An older huskarl of the Jarl named Rork yells out to move to the nearby treeline for the tree climbing event. The crowd moves towards the tall trees and a few of them have painted bands at the base of their trunks.
"These trees are judged to be of similar height and girth for this event. Contestants will climb up the tree and grab the flag of Ratik that is at the top placed their by Conrad and climb down. The first to bring their flag to Jarl Ulfensson is the winner."
Each contestant is given tree spikes for climbing and a rope to tie around the tree.
Cerian and Kitharial- what will be your strategy for the event? Will you go at a quarter or at half speed per move action? The DC for quarter speed is 10 DC for half speed is 15 as there are still some branches and knobs on the tree trunk to deal with.
Kithariel |
KIthariel will try to climb at half speed to start, but if she has trouble she'll drop down to quarter speed for the rest of the climb.
GM Qwerty |
Cerian and Kitharial line up with the other contestants after strapping the gear to their feet and some contestants are aghast that two females are competing, but then others remark that they are elven men and all elven men look like women... or so they heard... and after a bit of discussion on that the horn blares for everyone to get ready. After a short speech on how important tree climbing is to the area the Jarl instructs the horn blown again signalling the start of the race... and everyone takes off!
Cerian quarter: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18 pass 8 ft up
Kitharial half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12 fail
BearClaw1 half: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (15) + (2) = 17 pass 15 ft up
DragonFang1 half: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (18) + (6) = 24 pass 15 ft up
Fist1 half: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (7) + (6) = 13 fail
Fist2 quarter: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (12) + (2) = 14 pass 8 ft up
SnowFox1 half: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (6) + (4) = 10 fail
Local1 quarter: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (3) + (4) = 7 fail
IronBoar1 half: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (11) + (3) = 14 fail
Gustavsson1 half: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (11) + (5) = 16 pass 15ft up
Cerian quarter: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19 pass 16 ft up
Kitharial half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (19) + 6 = 25 pass 15 ft up
BearClaw1 half: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22 pass 30 ft up
DragonFang1 half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (15) + 6 = 21 pass 30 ft up
Fist1 half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9 fail still on ground level
Fist2 quarter: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 2 = 12 pass 16 ft up
SnowFox1 half: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6 fail still on ground level
Local1 quarter: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (18) + 4 = 22 pass 8 ft up
IronBoar1 half: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 3 = 4 fail still on ground level
Gustavsson1 half: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14 fail no progress/ 15 ft up
Cerian quarter: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17 pass 24 ft up
Kitharial half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19 pass 30 ft up
BearClaw1 half: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 2 = 21 pass 45 ft up
DragonFang1 half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17 pass 45 ft up
Fist1 half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8 fail still on ground level- ridiculed
Fist2 quarter: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22 pass 24 ft up
SnowFox1 half: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (13) + 4 = 17 pass 15 ft up
Local1 quarter: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24 pass 16 ft up
IronBoar1 half: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 20 pass 15 ft up
Gustavsson1 half: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (19) + 5 = 24 pass 30 ft up
It seems like it is a race between a bearclaw and a dragonfang with a few others close behind. Each section begins cheering... or laughing in the case of the inept Fister, as the race progresses...
GM Qwerty |
Cerian quarter: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20 pass 32 ft up
Kitharial quarter: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9 fail no progress/30 ft up
BearClaw1 half: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3 fail and falls down to 30 ft up
DragonFang1 half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (15) + 6 = 21 pass 60 ft up
Fist1 half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (7) + 6 = 13 fail still on ground level- ridiculed
Fist2 quarter: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10 pass 32 ft up
SnowFox1 half: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12 fail no progress/ 15 ft up
Local1 quarter: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 4 = 21 pass 24 ft up
IronBoar1 half: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5 fail / falls back to the ground
Gustavsson1 half: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (14) + 5 = 19 pass 45 ft up
The DrangonFang racer sprints to the lead and is able to grab the flag next turn as the BearClaw racer struggles with a branch and then falls down the trunk until catching himself...the large IronBoar racer loses his grip and falls back to the ground with a loud thud- but laughs.
Cerian quarter: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (4) + 6 = 10 pass 40 ft up
Kitharial quarter: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22 38 ft up
BearClaw1 half: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 2 = 13 fail no progress 30 ft up
DragonFang1 grabs flag: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8 grabs flag / 60 ft up
Fist1 half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (4) + 6 = 10 fail still on ground level- mocked
Fist2 quarter: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 2 = 19 pass 40 ft up
SnowFox1 half: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (19) + 4 = 23 pass 30 ft up
Local1 quarter: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (10) + 4 = 14 pass 32 ft up
IronBoar1 half: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (8) + 3 = 11 fail still on ground level- asks for some mead
Gustavsson1 half: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 5 = 17 pass 60 ft up
The DrangonFang racer unties the flag as the Gustavsson racer reaches the top. The BearClaw racer struggles to get his rope free for further climbing. As the struggling Fister continues to struggle and rant at the laughing crowd.
GM Qwerty |
The race continues on as spectators seem to be betting heavily on the Dragon Fang climber...
Cerian half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (19) + 6 = 25 pass 55 ft up
Kitharial half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19 pass 55 ft up
BearClaw1 half: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22 pass 45 ft up
DragonFang1 grabs flag: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (19) + 6 = 25 descends/ 45 ft up
Fist1 half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20 pass 15 ft up
Fist2 quarter: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3 fail... falls 15 feet/ 25 ft up
SnowFox1 half: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (7) + 4 = 11 fail no progress 30 ft up
Local1 quarter: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 4 = 21 pass 40 ft up
IronBoar1 half: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (14) + 3 = 17 pass 15 ft up
Gustavsson1 half: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (18) + 5 = 23 pass grabs flag starts to descend
Cerian quarter: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8 no progress 55 ft up
Kitharial half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (18) + 6 = 24 pass grabs flag / 60 ft up
BearClaw1 half: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7 fail.. falls... 30 ft up
DragonFang1 grabs flag: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23 pass descends/ 30 ft up
Fist1 half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (8) + 6 = 14 fails no progress 15 ft up
Fist2 quarter: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4 fail... falls 15 feet/ 5 ft up
SnowFox1 half: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10 fail no progress 30 ft up
Local1 quarter: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9 fails falls to 25 ft up
IronBoar1 half: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 3 = 4 fails falls to ground quits race, laughs and drinks
Gustavsson1 half: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 5 = 8 fails falls 15 ft... 45 ft up
GM Qwerty |
Cerian quarter: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (8) + 6 = 14 grabs flag, begins to descend 55 ft up
Kitharial quarter: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12 pass 50 ft up
BearClaw1 half: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5 fail.. falls... 15 ft up
DragonFang1 grabs flag: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (20) + 6 = 26 pass descends/ 15 ft up
Fist1 half: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (4) + 6 = 10 fails no progress 15 ft up
Fist2 quarter: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 2 = 16 quit after seeing the DragonFang member almost down
SnowFox1 half: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7 fail.. falls... 15 ft up
Local1 quarter: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24pass climbs to 32 ft up
IronBoar1 half: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5 tries to put on the climbing gear but falls over and laughs
Gustavsson1 half: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11 fails, no progress... 45 ft up
At the end of the race the Dragon Fang member named Ruzev wins the tree climb and the Dragon Fangers cheer out. The Jarl reluctantly calls for the man to come forward and his wife takes another golden arm band off and offers it to the Dragon Fang winner. Someone in the crowd yells out that Ruzev can now pay for his mead tab and the crowd laughs some more.
Cerian Screamingtrees |
"Well done sir well done."
He began to the winner with a bow of his head, There wasnt a doubt in his mind at least had he been going all out he couldnt have outdistanced the humans, but he had been half wanting to gage the locals and there tolerance to he and Kitharial competing even.
At least thats his story and im sticking to it :P
Kithariel |
"That was an impressive display of skill, Ruzev... I am impressed and humbled. It was fun to compete though, I thoroughly enjoyed it! Congratulations on your win!"
Anchard Wulfphear |
Meanwhile Anchard continues his search...
GM Qwerty |
The next events are the fire walking which seems to generate a lot of whoopla from the crowd as a Snowfox member walks over the not coals three times to victory. He smiles as he sits on a barrel with his feet in buckets of water when the gold arm band is presented to him.
Anchard sees Aerdy Konrad always moving with he Jarl and his wife from event to event during the celebrations. It wont be too hard to speak to him during one of the events.
After the fire walking a few tough and brave souls line up for the coal holding and each get a piece of hot coal placed in their hand with the winner being the one who holds it the longest. This event does not last long as the winner is the local Ratikkan blacksmith who outlasts everyone.
The next event is the test of strength. Contestants line up holding a rope tied off to a small cart filled with rocks. The first to move their cart 25 ft 5 DC 12 STR checks will be declared the winner.
Antonio lines up with the other participants and notices many of the northern barbarians dwarf him. Everyone grabs their rope and when the horn blows they all start pulling feverishly.
Antonio: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9 struggles to get it to move
Bearclaw1: 1d20 + 1d4 ⇒ (2) + (3) = 5 struggles to get it to move
Dragonfang1: 1d20 + 1d4 ⇒ (5) + (3) = 8 struggles to get it to move
Snowfox1: 1d20 + 1d4 ⇒ (13) + (4) = 17 moves it 5ft
Fister1: 1d20 + 1d4 ⇒ (8) + (3) = 11 struggles to get it to move
Gustavsson1: 1d20 + 1d4 ⇒ (12) + (4) = 16 moves it 5ft
Ironboar1: 1d20 + 1d4 ⇒ (1) + (4) = 5 struggles to get it to move
Local Mason: 1d20 + 1d4 ⇒ (2) + (2) = 4 struggles to get it to move
Antonio: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (18) + 4 = 22 moves it 5ft
Bearclaw1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5 struggles to get it to move
Dragonfang1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9 struggles to get it to move
Snowfox1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24 moves it 10ft
Fister1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (9) + 3 = 12 moves it 5ft
Gustavsson1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9 struggles to get it to move/stuck at 5ft
Ironboar1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (18) + 4 = 22 moves it 5ft
Local Mason: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 2 = 16 moves it 5ft
GM Qwerty |
Antonio: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (18) + 4 = 22 moves it 10ft
Bearclaw1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (20) + 3 = 23 moves it 5ft
Dragonfang1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (16) + 3 = 19 moves it 5ft
Snowfox1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10 struggles to move it; stuck at 10ft
Fister1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18 moves it 10ft
Gustavsson1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (12) + 4 = 16 moves it 10ft
Ironboar1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10 struggles to move it; stuck at 5ft
Local Mason: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 2 = 16 moves it 10ft
Antonio: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (14) + 4 = 18 moves it 15ft
Bearclaw1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (9) + 3 = 12 moves it 10ft
Dragonfang1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (16) + 3 = 19 moves it 10ft
Snowfox1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 4 = 21 moves it to 15ft
Fister1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (16) + 3 = 19 moves it 15ft
Gustavsson1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (12) + 4 = 16 moves it 15ft
Ironboar1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10 struggles to move it; stuck at 5ft
Local Mason: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9 stuck at 10ft
With all the men straining their back and arm muscles half of them are all tied in the lead...
GM Qwerty |
Antonio: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6 struggles and stays at 15ft
Bearclaw1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (16) + 3 = 19 moves it 15ft
Dragonfang1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (12) + 3 = 15 moves it 15ft
Snowfox1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 4 = 8 struggles and stays at 15ft
Fister1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (9) + 3 = 12 moves it 20ft
Gustavsson1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (12) + 4 = 16 moves it 20ft
Ironboar1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 4 = 21 moves it to 10ft
Local Mason: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 2 = 21 moves it to 15ft
Antonio: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6 struggles and stays at 15ft
Bearclaw1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 3 = 4 struggles and stays at 15ft
Dragonfang1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (12) + 3 = 15 moves it to 20ft
Snowfox1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 4 = 8 struggles and stays at 15ft
Fister1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6 struggles and stays at 20ft
Gustavsson1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7 moves it to 20ft
Ironboar1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 = 5 struggles and stays at 10ft
Local Mason: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5 struggles and stays at 15ft
Antonio: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (19) + 4 = 23 moves it to 20ft
Bearclaw1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9 struggles and stays at 15ft
Dragonfang1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6 struggles and stays at 20ft
Snowfox1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24 moves it to 20ft
Fister1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (14) + 3 = 17 moves it to 25ft and WINS
Gustavsson1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12 moves it to 25ft 2nd Place
Ironboar1: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10 struggles and stays at 10ft
Local Mason: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5 struggles and stays at 15ft
The broad backed Stonefister is the first to move his load across the line with the tall Gustavsson huskarl being second. Most agree that the newcomer Antonio would have been a close second had the race gone longer. The Stonefister smirks as he is given a golden arm band from Lady Tessa.
The next event is wrestling as many men begin lining up to toss each other to the ground. Aerdy Konrad seems disinterested in this event and the group notices this may be a good time to speak to him.
GM Qwerty |
A broad shouldered brown haired Snow Fox tribe member named Johko the Strong, endures many challengers and after 5 wrestling bouts is declared the winner of the wrestling event. Most folks believed he would win as he is genuinely accepted as the best grappler in the town since no one ever picks a fight with him in the taverns. Rumors tell of him fighting the large white bears common in the far north before he became a sellsword.
The next event is the pugilist event and as the many men line up to punch each other Johko also lines up, forcing about half the participants to quit. A game Stonefister manages to last longer than most expected but falls to the fist of Johko, who has not received 2 gold arm bands from Lady Tessa. Johko celebrates with a mug of mead.
Tables are prepared for lunch for the current winners, nobles, warchiefs and persons of note. Common folk grab their food and sit on rocks or stumps. You all are invited to sit at some of the tables where you can find a spot.
Cerian Screamingtrees |
Had he known lunch would come before the archery contest he would have worked harder on the tree climbing or signed up for more, still he found a seat near the jarls forces since in theory he was competing in their name. and made small talk with those around him.
diplomacy to make new friends.: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (14) + 5 = 19
GM Qwerty |
Cerian learns that many of Jarl Ulfenssons huskarls are worried about town security once the Frost barbarians leave to go back to Frutzii lands. The Frost barbarians usually act as a bulwark against the more aggressive Bloody Fists and Dragonfang Barbarians. They will all stay as a man to guard the Jarl, but many hope the Jarl packs up and heads to Ratikhill soon. While the Snowfox clan is friendly, there aren't many of them to balance the town. Cerian also hears rumors of Bloody Fisters keeping a stranglehold on trade to the East and don't let anyone else go out that way.
During the meal you sit with Johko and other Snow Fox clan members. You hear that while the Snow Fox clan is loyal to the Jarl, as long as they are paid, everything they do depends on what Old Garram, their Shaman, decides to do. If he says the Snow Fox leave- then they all leave. If he says the Snow Fox fight- then they all fight. Old Garram is on even terms with the Jarl, but it is not all friendly. Old Garram wants something and has not gotten it yet. Johko also warns Antonio to stay away from the Bloody Fists as they are bad people. And to watch your coin pouch around the Gustavssons since they are thieves loyal to neither clan or tribe.
Tanariel finds an open seat near Lady Tessa only to discover Lord Skel Jarro, the newcomer knight, sits next to the elf wizard. He attempts to make small talk with her trying to impress upon her his wide knowledge of faraway lands (which Tanariel detects as limited). While he comes off as good natured and very religious and pious to Lendor, the Suel god of Knowledge and Laws, Skel Jarro is also a braggart and full of himself. He likes to boast that the northern barbarians give him a wide swath because Lendor is the father of Kord, the main barbarian deity. While enduring the constant talking of the knight, Tanariel observes Aerdy Konrad sitting alone as if waiting for someone from the group of refined intelligence and wisdom to go over and talk to him. The last thing Tanariel hears is the chatter about the local merchant named Larko Snivens, who has been accused of fencing stolen goods for some of the tribes as if buying their loyalties.
Antonio Albrecht Armiger |
Antonio enjoys tasting the northern brews. He shares some of his rum with his new friends and asks them what they think of it.
Antonio finds all of the information that he has gleaned from his power lunch with the Snow Fox clan incredibly interesting. He will be mindful of his possessions near the thieving Gustavssons. Most of all, he makes a note to speak with Old Garram and see what the elderly shaman wants from the jarl.
Cerian Screamingtrees |
He couldnt help but to frown at the things he was hearing. No wonder this town seemed so tense. The events out to the east where what worried him the most.If the mission wasnt a pressing concern he knew he would make his way east and see what they were hiding, quietly of course.
Kithariel |
Kithariel heads to the lunch tables before the pugilist even begins, not wanting to watch the folks pummeling each other.
Anchard Wulfphear |
Anchard wonders how long he has been looking for the counsel of one Aerdy Conrad and for a moment wonders how his companions faired at their competitions.
GM Qwerty |
The cleric sees an empty spot next to the one called Aerdy Conrad and sits next to him during lunch. Most of the northerners give him a wide berth and rumors persist of him cursing some unlucky Fister that mocked him. That Fister was rumored to be beaten to death by his Fister companions for fear of the curse spreading. But who knows with rumors. Anchard engages Conrad in a polite discussion regarding the differences between divine and arcane magiks and finds Conrad rather knowledgeable on religious matters. After a while Conrad just looks at Anchard and bluntly asks "Enough shenanigans... who sent you and why are you here? No one from the Free City comes to these lands willingly."
The elf sits down near some of the others in a mixed table of locals and Uflensson warriors. She notices the two groups get along very well and have the same opinions of the different clans and tribes present here save for one. Some feel the Gustavssons are good folk, some feel the opposite. She also hears that the merchant Larko Snivens may be in league with some of the crueler groups and often goes out with some patrols when they go to the east. A local barmaid tells Kithariel that Larko claims to be from the Great Kingdom area but avoids Conrad and has no accent from those lands. She does not like him much even if he does not try to pinch and grab her like other tavern goers do.
You actually believe this Ratikkan knight is hitting on you. He has mentioned he has warmer lands with woods and streams that needs a lady's touch and that he is single, and wealthy.
Antonio makes friends with an inebriated Snow Fox warrior named Osto Gunderman, known for his skill with the spear. Osto walks with Antonio using the newcomer for balance as they walk around with tankards of mead chatting up with others. Osto confides in Antonio the fears of the Snow Fox members if Old Garram dies; when pressed Osto says Old Garram is old, very old, and the Schnai Dragonfang warrior Valkin has a family blood feud to avenge with Old Garram (Osto points to a large almost 7 ft muscular barbarian twirling a great axe off in an open field). The open duels will be in the latter part of the day and if Valkin challenges Old Garram no one in the Snow Fox clan can match Valkin.
The elf mingles around, avoiding some of the groups of men who give him cold stares, but finds the local Rattikans friendly. He comes to find that some northerners never seen an elf before or only the rare albino snow elves who come down from the mountains and raid settlements (Cerian knows this to not be 100 true as they only protect their lands from encroachment). Cerian speaks with Bart the Fletcher and finds out that a scholar came through the area with some hired guards and wanted to go to the east up in the mountains. Bart remembered this because one of the guards had a nice pair of mountain boots Bart liked. The scholar spoke with Conrad and left the next day. A few days later those same boots were for sale in a merchants store and when asked about them when he went to buy the merchant claimed the boots were new fashion from Nyrond which Bart knew was a lie. Bart bought the boots, good boots mind you, but now feels like he is being watched for asking. The merchant was Larko.
Anchard Wulfphear |
It is clear to Aerdy that Anchard appreciates cutting the pleasantries. Anchard lends a rare smile and leans in to speak so his question is clearly heard,
I am seeking a perdon by the name of Ragmas. Do you know where he is? I have business, and everyone keeps pointing to you as the last person to know about him.
Cerian Screamingtrees |
He asked the friendly man. He was glad he had found him he Fletching arrows was an art form he appreciated for sure. This name Larko kept popping up and not in good ways.
Kithariel |
Kit listens carefully to all she hears about this Larko fellow, and asks "What lies to the east of here that he'd want to join the patrols that specifically go that direction? Have you ever been on a patrol with him? Does he meet anyone when he goes east? Or do anything odd or strange?"
To the barmaid, she will nod and look at her with understanding. "Men do tend to get a bit handsy with women. It does not look pleasant, and if their attentions are unwelcome, slap them.. or let me know and I'll shoot them in the hand for you." She smiles at her a bit conspiratorially and winks broadly, but she means it. "If his accent is wrong for the Great Kingdom... what sort of accent DOES he have? Can you tell? It makes me wonder where he's actually from and why he wants to conceal that information."
GM Qwerty |
"Ahh... so you want to know about Ragmas the Scholar, Ragmas the Historian. Yes- I met with Ragmas. Smart fellow. Not a caster mind you, he had no skill for that. Nor a divinely inspired person. No he was an academic. A good one at that." Conrad looks around "I'll not talk about what was said out here... too many ears about. Come later to my library with your lot and we shall speak in private. Ragmas went out east searching for something of great power and I fear something bad happened to him... but more later. and Conrad shuts down the conversation as lunch ends and the next events are set to begin.
Bart points to a well groomed and dressed middle aged human sitting near some northerners and other merchants. Behind him stands a rough looking sellsword armed with a a large warhammer, most likely a paid bodyguard. Larko seems to favor dark red and grey colors for his attire.
Osto gives Antonio the rules and regulations of the northerner einvigi or duel. There are duels to the death and duels to first blood. Once the challenge has been accepted either party can bring forth a champion in his place. Both groups have to agree upon which type of duel and with which weapons. The usual northmen weapons are allowed like swords, spears, axes, daggers. Blunted or wooden weapons are customary but sometimes brave fools favor the real thing with sharp edges. Duels to the death are favored by the northmen but frowned upon by the Jarl and his Rattikan allies.
The knight is sincere in his speaking of marriage, but Tanariel believes it is because he wants a wife that others envy and will talk about to improve his standing rather than for true love. Not that the knight is a bad sort, or ugly. Quite the opposite- he is charming, even if a bit over the top, and handsome. He has caught the eyes of a few local ladies but out of respect he ignores them all when he is with you. Others tell you he is a wealthy noble with a few estates and has family ties to the ruling family here in Ratik and a few other places down south. The northmen hate him for he is a feisty fighter against their kind.
Kithariel learns that the only thing to the east of here are mountains and an old abandoned mine no one goes to anymore for fear of cave ins. No one in this settlement has ever been to the Aerdy Kingdom save for Conrad and Larko so no one can say what the accent is supposed to sound like. A dwarf sellsword from the Iron Hills once made a comment about Larko sounding like he was from the south of Aerdy lands but the only thing down there is the Vast Swamp which must be in error.
A horn signifies lunch is over and the next event is the archery competition. Much like the earlier tests the archers will shoot at a target that moves further away. All contestants are told to line up in 15 minutes.
you have some time to discuss with each other what you overheard or what you believe.
Kithariel |
Kithariel will tell what little she learned to the others... "THere's not much east of here save mountains and an abandoned mine. The risk of cave-ins keeps folk away from there. As for that Larko fellow, his claims of being from the Great Kingdom might be false, as his accent is wrong, or so some folks have said... A dwarven mercenary once said he sounded like he was from south of Aerdy lands, but there's nothing down there except the Vast Swamp, so how can that be right?"
After that, she starts preparing herself for the archery contest, taking a few minutes to meditate and clear her mind... then checking her equipment, restringing her bow if necessary...
Antonio Albrecht Armiger |
Antonio rejoins the party and relates how, according to members of the Snow Fox clan, the Gustavssons are thieves around whom one should guard one's possessions, the continued presence of the Snow Fox clan is dependent on the whims of their shaman, Old Garram, the shaman wants something from the jarl, and the warrior Valkin is here to settle a blood debt with Old Garram. "I'm going to fight Valkin. Win or lose, that should buy us the clan's good will. Then we can see about setting things right between Old Garram and the jarl."
GM Qwerty |
The contestants line up for the archery event and are stunned when they discover, after some time, that a female is participating with them.
This event seems to draw a large crowd as people are busy placing bets. After the preliminary rounds are done only 10 archers are left standing.
Kithariel: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23
Dragonfang: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (8) + (1) = 9
Bloody Fist: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (18) + (6) = 24
Bearclaw: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (16) + (5) = 21
Snowfox Clan: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (12) + (4) = 16
Gustuvsson Clan: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (12) + (6) = 18
Merchant Guard: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (16) + (6) = 22
Local Hunter: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (12) + (4) = 16
Iron Boar: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (20) + (5) = 25
Ulfensson Huskarl: 1d20 + 1d6 ⇒ (18) + (5) = 23
The targets are moved further back as the Dragon fang member misses his mark.
Kithariel: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18
Bloody Fist: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23
Bearclaw: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (11) + 5 = 16
Snowfox Clan: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9
Gustuvsson Clan: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18
Merchant Guard: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12
Local Hunter: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (9) + 4 = 13
Iron Boar: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14
Ulfensson Huskarl: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (16) + 5 = 21
After the second round a few more participants leave, but all are amazed the elf female is still present. As the final round starts the Bloody Fist archer moves in front of Kitherial and shoots on her turn. Thee is a gasp emanating from the crowd as he does that which they acknowledge as a sign of disrespect. Since this is the final round the archers are told the one closest to the bullseye will be declared the winner.
Bloody Fist: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17
Kithariel: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23
Bearclaw: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 5 = 18
Gustuvsson Clan: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19
Ulfensson Huskarl: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (14) + 5 = 19
After the target is brought back from its shooting distance the judges reveal that the female elf is declared the winner and the crowd cheers for her. Kitherial is then given a winners golden arm band from Lady Tessa who hugs her as well.
After the event is over a muscular Dragonfang warrior calls out to the Jarl to be heard. Once given permission to speak the man says "You all know me... I am Valkin of the Northern lands, of the Schnai. I have grievance with Old Garram from the Snowfox clan for actions he did in the past. I ask for trial by combat to settle this grievance and call to you Jark Ulfensson to abide by the ways of the northerners and lets us settle this in the old ways. He spilled blood of my kin and I would spill his blood as a balance. What say you Jarl...?" the large man yells out.
Since Valkin tied the Jarl to the old northern ways if the Jarl does not resolve this issue properly he will lose face and standing with the northern warriors, which he needs for maintaining security in the region.
A hush falls over the crowd as the Jarl stands and replies "We are not in northern lands Valkin, but your tongue speaks truth to those customs. If a blood feud started up in the north we down here cannot ignore it and should seek to settle the feud as best we can. Old Garram as we all know is old the crowd chuckles and I find it hard for you to balance the scales fighting such an old man. Hardly worth the effort. But since you invoked the old ways I will invoke the old ways as well and allow Old Garram to select a champion if he so desires." and he motions to Old Garram who slowly nods his head in agreement. "Then if there is anyone who will stand in Old Garrams stead for this challenge please come forward..." the Jarl says aloud. The crowd begins to speak in whispers at the sight of a coming duel...
Antonio Albrecht Armiger |
Antonio's gaze shifts between Valkin and Old Garram. This is what he has been waiting for. He looks over each member of the Snowfox Clan and considers who among them is a mightier warrior than himself? Who among them is a more worthy champion? "No one."
The heavily armored southerner steps forward. "I will fight for the Snow Fox clan. I will fight for Old Garram. I, Antonio Albrecht Armiger, will fight you, Valkin. May the best man win."
"That's me. The best man is me."
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (10) + 1 = 11
Kithariel |
Kithariel beams momentarily with a mix of pride and satisfaction, but accepts her award with humility. She stands with the others to listen to the challenge, and lofts a brow with surprise as Antonio volunteers. She whispers to him. "Are you sure you know what you're getting into?"
Kithariel |
"To the death? I only heard the 'drawing of blood' stuff... are you sure it's to the death?" Kithariel looks horrified.
GM Qwerty |
"I know nothing of this lowlander... who is he to interfere in this duel? He is no one to me." Valkin says scoffing at the idea of fighting a newcomer.
"You brought the terms of the duel when you asked me to oblige you with the old ways. A champion has always been allowed if one seeks it. You shant back out of your challenge now will you?" the Jarl retorts.
The muscular Dragonfang warrior thinks for a moment and then replies.
"if this warrior can regale us of his deeds and if I consider them worthy then I shall accept his inclusion into the duel."
and all eyes turn to Antonio.
Cerian Screamingtrees |
He had been so distracted with scrounging up information on this Larko fellow...that he misses the archery compition. He smiled though to see Kithariel holding down the standard that elven archery was the beast in the realms.
He tried to move closer to this Larko to see if he could overhear anything.
stealth: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (7) + 10 = 17
perception: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (20) + 11 = 31
Antonio Albrecht Armiger |
"I'm a pit fighter of great renown, a real fan favorite. I've won one hundred forty-three duels - twenty-six of these to the death - against warriors from every corner of the map. I've fought in seventeen mock battles inside the arena, and numerous battles in the field fighting alongside my mercenary brothers and sisters. I'm a mighty orc-slayer, as Jarl Borg can attest. I once slew a minotaur. You don't look nearly as tough as him."