Tora no Senaka - The Back of the Tiger (Inactive)

Game Master Dreaming Warforged

Trouble with Goblins can lead to a lot of places, even the other side of the world...
Jade Regent AP, now in volume 3 - The Hungry Storm


2,301 to 2,350 of 3,966 << first < prev | 42 | 43 | 44 | 45 | 46 | 47 | 48 | 49 | 50 | 51 | 52 | next > last >>

You run as fast you can, until Sorin stops you as he sees the warding statues. He kneels and quickly scratches the password runes and you're off to the safety of the forest. You hear swearing, yelling and all possible curses known in Skald (which is quite a lot), but no sound of pursuit. It seems that, for now, Asvig's raiders are all talk.

As you make your way back to your horses and then to Kalsgard, Kelda looks at you: "Izumi's not with you..? Where is he?"


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

"Some slavemasters named the Frozen Shadows have him. We'll be paying them a visit next", Raith's expression as grim as his voice.


"The Frozen Shadows... They don't sound very dangerous! Where do we find them?" Kelda asks.


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

"Rimerunner Guild in the Jade Quarter. You know it?"

Liberty's Edge

(AC 19/t14/ff18, hp 62 of 68) Shoanti Cleric (of Erastil) 8
The Celestial Bureaucracy wrote:
As you make your way back to your horses and then to Kalsgard, Kelda looks at you: "Izumi's not with you..? Where is he?"

Kelda was just with us at the longhouse, like, seven posts up, expressing concern that we weren't deciding fast enough. Is this a typo, or is this a doppleganger thing where we have two Kelda's on our hands?


AC 21 (20)/T 13/FF 17; CMD 24, HP 76/76

Well, to be fair- she was talking about the rest of Asvig's men returning from the distraction. She likely expected us to have Izumi.


Hp: 21/30; AC:19/19/17 (22 ward, 24 PfE)
Stats:
(Mage Armor, +2 AC 1/6); DR 10/magic vs. ranged weapons (40pts); Fort+6, Ref+3, Will+5 (+2 vs. enchantments, immune sleep, resist cold 5)
Half-Elven Wizard 6

"It seems that our chase has simply lengthened. I do not believe that Asvig will challenge us again after we so resoundingly dealt with his men...twice. I am more concerned with these other brigands, the Frozen Shadows."

"I will need to rest before we return to the city to ensure that I have spells. I do not think we are as safe as we once were now that we know these enemies control an entire district. They will have informants that they can use to track us down quite easily once they talk to Asvig and learn of our assault...or torture the information out of Izumi."

Liberty's Edge

(AC 19/t14/ff18, hp 62 of 68) Shoanti Cleric (of Erastil) 8

Garand growls impatiently, "Whatever we do, let us be about it. Let us go sleep and eat and recover our energies while Asvig and his men warn the Frozen Shadows that we are coming, if that is what we are going to do."

"With a half day to prepare, and Asvigs men as reinforcements, perhaps the Frozen Shadow will have a chance against us."


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

"Are you saying we should have killed Asvig and his woman? I do not like enemy piling upon enemy because we are unwilling to kill them."

Liberty's Edge

(AC 19/t14/ff18, hp 62 of 68) Shoanti Cleric (of Erastil) 8

"It matters not at this point. Izumi's not getting anymore rescued by this talk. Let's move." Garand says.

He looks around to get his bearings. "Town is this way, I believe."

If there isn't an obvious path, or the sights of firelight in the distance, marking the town, he'll take 10 on a Survival check (for a 17) to try and find the right direction.

"The faster we move, the better chance we have of getting to the Frozen Shadows before Asvig's runners, or his witch, warns them of our arrival and they move Izumi to another location, or set up a trap for us."


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

"It matters to me. If Asvig and his witch or any of them Ulfen raiders show their faces with the Frozen Shadows, I won't be showing enemies in the future mercy. I don't intend to leave a man alive so he can join his sword with others looking for my head. You can be assured of that.", Raith pauses for a breath, "Try to kill me once, shame on you. Try to kill me a second time, shame on me for leaving you alive to do so."


Garand Stone-of-the-Moon wrote:
The Celestial Bureaucracy wrote:
As you make your way back to your horses and then to Kalsgard, Kelda looks at you: "Izumi's not with you..? Where is he?"

Kelda was just with us at the longhouse, like, seven posts up, expressing concern that we weren't deciding fast enough. Is this a typo, or is this a doppleganger thing where we have two Kelda's on our hands?

She stayed behind to act as lookout. That way, we (I mean I...) didn't have to deal with her during combat. She was surprised you didn't show up with Izumi and feels responsible.


Raith Shadar wrote:
"Try to kill me once, shame on you. Try to kill me a second time, shame on me for leaving you alive to do so."

Raith just reminded me of a great laugh I had. Thanks!

It is night as you make your way towards the city. It is likely this would take most of the night. Do you prefer to rest or push on. If you rest. You'll get there around noon. If you push, around sunrise.


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

We'll rest. Let the casters refresh and prepare. I imagine we're pretty fatigued.


Hp: 21/30; AC:19/19/17 (22 ward, 24 PfE)
Stats:
(Mage Armor, +2 AC 1/6); DR 10/magic vs. ranged weapons (40pts); Fort+6, Ref+3, Will+5 (+2 vs. enchantments, immune sleep, resist cold 5)
Half-Elven Wizard 6

Yawn

I am fine...really...snnnnrrrrrkkkk


The sun reaches the zenith as you approach the metropolis of the North, its long walls extending almost as far as the eye can see. Smoke rises from its numerous chimneys and the sun reflects on the metallic roofs of its greatest temples.


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

We're going to meet up with the rest of the caravan. Apprise Ameiko and the others of the situation including the information we've received. Make sure everything is copacetic. Then start to scout The Rimerunner's Guild in the Jade Quarter. If there is something else we need to take care of inbetween, let us know. Otherwise I'm going to assume the party is going to turn their focus on the Frozen Shadows and The Guild.


Ameiko is astounded: Izumi! That can't be!? Why didn'T you tell me earlier? And what of those Rimerunners? Where are we supposed to find them? I mean, they are organized crime, right? And they mean to kill me, us..."

She turns to Theoden: And who are you?"


M Aasimar Paladin/Warpriest 1st

Smiling, "Orrick. Theoden Orrick, madam, at your service." He bows. "Now..." he glances at the others before continuing, "you are who exactly? Wait! Let me guess." Placing a fist up to his mouth, he thinks on it a moment. "Okay! I think I've got it. Now, you are obviously a damsel in distress. Probably threatened by the local scum - maybe Asvig's people, maybe not - and this merry band of folks have taken it upon themselves to protect you. And once we've managed to find out who it is and deal with them accordingly, we can then return you back to your home, safe and sound. And I would also gather that this Izumi character was of a mighty interest to you. Beau, perhaps?" He asks with a wink and a grin. "Now I've gathered he's integral to the party, which means you met him when they rescued you, thereby, after a time, you developed an attraction to him." He finishes, thinking that ought to be pretty close. "So, how'd I do?"

Liberty's Edge

(AC 19/t14/ff18, hp 62 of 68) Shoanti Cleric (of Erastil) 8

Garand gives Theoden one of those inscrutable Shoanti looks that radiates disapproval. "The boy who was spying on us was murdered after we discovered his activities, proving the heartlessness of those who hired him. Theoden seems to be a local lawman who was investigating the boy's murder."

"We left Asvig and many Ulfen alive, they could be warning the people at the Rimerunners even now. We should move out, if we wish to see Izumi alive, and not be forced to fight two groups at once."


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

"Apparently, Theoden, you have a good eye for seeing what you shouldn't. A lady, eh?", Raith has a slight edge to his voice, "Keep that to yourself. Speak nothing of her to anyone. Speak not her name amongst others or anything of a woman. She's a male merchant as far as anyone knows, we want to keep it that way."

I'm assuming Ameiko is still disguised. I didn't illustrate this in the original post because I wasn't sure we were going to be role-playing this. She should be in disguise in front of a person we don't know like Theoden.

"Izumi's a caravan guard. This merchant doesn't enjoy seeing caravan guards murdered or kidnapped. You understand, Theoden?"

Raith turns to Ameiko, "We're supposed to find the Rimerunners in the Jade Quarter at their guildhouse. Cowardly lot robbing and kidnapping a caravan guard. We're assuming this is an extortion plan of some sort save they haven't given us terms. We plan to dictate terms to them soon enough."


My bad... Let's roll with Theoden catching something wrong with her disguise and figuring it out. It's been a while since we settle on this. Sorry.


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

That's cool with me. I think he has a high Sense Motive. It works for the roleplaying. We'll see if we can trust him.


Hp: 21/30; AC:19/19/17 (22 ward, 24 PfE)
Stats:
(Mage Armor, +2 AC 1/6); DR 10/magic vs. ranged weapons (40pts); Fort+6, Ref+3, Will+5 (+2 vs. enchantments, immune sleep, resist cold 5)
Half-Elven Wizard 6

"I believe that our local here," Sorin begins, indicating Theoden "Will be the best person to discern the location of the Rimerunner's operations. As they are obviously a group that operates from the shadows, it would not be unlikely for a law-man to be searching for information on them. We, as non-Tien, non-locals will face challenges interacting with the culture, I believe."


M Aasimar Paladin/Warpriest 1st
Raith Shadar wrote:

"Apparently, Theoden, you have a good eye for seeing what you shouldn't. A lady, eh?", Raith has a slight edge to his voice, "Keep that to yourself. Speak nothing of her to anyone. Speak not her name amongst others or anything of a woman. She's a male merchant as far as anyone knows, we want to keep it that way."

"Izumi's a caravan guard. This merchant doesn't enjoy seeing caravan guards murdered or kidnapped. You understand, Theoden?"

Smiling at such fantastic subterfuge, "Ahhh, I see. Clever. I like it. A perfect way to keep one from being found." He turns to Ameiko, "Impressive, I must say. You know, you must really be in trouble with these villians if this band is going through such trouble to hide you." He peers at her curiously. Grinning it away, "Don't you worry, sir, you have nothing to fear." He winks. "We will find these ne'er-do-wells and take care of them accordingly. And when we do, you will finally be able to return to a normal life. Well, as normal as it gets here in Kalsgard anyway. Which, I might add, has been the most fun I've had in a long while. It's typically quite boring around here more often than not." He shrugs.

Sorin Saldward wrote:
"I believe that our local here," Sorin begins, indicating Theoden "Will be the best person to discern the location of the Rimerunner's operations. As they are obviously a group that operates from the shadows, it would not be unlikely for a law-man to be searching for information on them. We, as non-Tien, non-locals will face challenges interacting with the culture, I believe."

"This gentleman's right; it would be less obvious if I were the one asking around about such. Once we leave here, we shall make our way to the Jade Quarter and I shall inquire of the whereabouts on such a place. More than likely, they are responsible for the boy. We'll soon find out."


Old stuff from a few days ago. wrote:


Finally, your luck turns as you find a dwarven brewer by the name of Broc of the Stone, located in the network of caves under the metropolis. He buys from a Tien trader some secret ingredients that are imported from Tian Xia. "Foi Luk is very old, and might remember something about a sold sword. Anyhow, his guide I know well enough, a scumbag named Ulf Gormundr. Yeah! That's the one you want. He knows the way across the Crown AND how to survive through AAAAND he's not signed to a merchant for exclusivity. Last I heard, he was working with a tracker named Uksahkka. They have their "office" at the Varisian pub in the Fire Quarter."

A day later, Harrin comes to find you at dinner: "I thought you should know, Broc got a visit... Some men asking questions about you: who you are, where you're from, where you're staying, what's your business... He said nothing he said. But he sent his son the next day to warn me." He walks away as discreetly as he came.

You locate Foi Luk, a wealthy merchant of the Jade Quarter. As you're about to approach the shop, Raith stops you at a corner and signs for you to lay low. Soon after, you see a murder of crow flying from one rooftop to another, perhaps with an unnatural intent... A breath later, the path is clear, and the crows have disappeared.

It takes a while to get the merchant to loosen up, but he eventually puts together the pieces you slowly feed him. "Ay! Ay! I remember, but that was a while back!!! Yes, the family was without money, so it was a bargain for Fynn! Yes, that's it! Fynn Snaevald. He became a famous collector. Made his name with that sword, I'd say! Don't know if he's alive still. I am! So may be he is!"

Ameiko smiles at Theoden: "For now, call me Mike. We'll need to rescue Izumi, but find the sword and a guide to find a path to the East. I know Sandru is not fond of it, but I'm afraid going through Irrisen, then the rest of the world, will see the death of me..."

Sandru: "It's not that I don't want too. I just... I just never thought it would be possible! It would mean a lot of supplies, and perhaps a few more wagons... And staff... Kelda could help, but I'd like Koya's wise counsel for this. We'll make the contacts, so were ready to move if there is indeed a road North."

Shalelu shrugs, he long blond hair swinging as she gets up: "Frozen Shadows... I don't like the sound of an organized group of criminals controlling the city and possibly in league with Am- Mike's enemies... They will eventually find us. We must find our information and begone, quick! I'll stay here with Mike, for protection."


Hp: 21/30; AC:19/19/17 (22 ward, 24 PfE)
Stats:
(Mage Armor, +2 AC 1/6); DR 10/magic vs. ranged weapons (40pts); Fort+6, Ref+3, Will+5 (+2 vs. enchantments, immune sleep, resist cold 5)
Half-Elven Wizard 6

"Remember, this is not the home of the Frozen Shadows. The witch mentioned a fortress elsewhere. We do not want to be harried by enemies across the breadth of Irrisen, so I suggest we take the time to deal with our enemies now, rather than later. Go slow to move fast, some would say."


M Aasimar Paladin/Warpriest 1st

Completely perplexed by all the talk of, "going through Irrisen" and " then the rest of the world"; topped by this new gentleman he's never seen words of needing more supplies and wagons, Theoden looks at them all strangely. "O-kay. Apparently there is more to this situation than I first expected." He looks at them all a moment longer before shrugging. "You know, it's not important. We need to continue your search for your friend and hopefully during that time I can find the ones who murdered the boy. And I would guess find this 'sword' as well. Although, I don't really understand the importance of a mere weapon but I'm sure you all have your reasons. It looks as if 'Mike' has capable caretakers in hand. We should go."


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

Have we found any info about Fynn Snaevald?

"First we rescue Izumi. Then we locate Fynn and find out what happened to the sword."

"Theoden, you know where the Rimerunner's Guild hall is? Maybe you go and do a little investigation of the place. Find out what we're up against."


Theoden:

The Rimerunners Guild is well known and extremely influential in and around Kalsgard, specializing in trade with Tian Xia over the Crown of the World as well as along the rivers of the Lands of the Linnorm Kings. Many local merchants and their retainers and much of the local economy are beholden to it.

The leader of the guild is a merchant of high repute named Thorborg Silverskorr. She has numerous connections with the wealthy and powerful of Kalsgard, some say she has the ear of the Linnorm King Sveinn Blood-Eagle.

The Rimerunners’ guildhall is located on the waterfront in the Jade Quarter


M Aasimar Paladin/Warpriest 1st

"Yes, it's located on the waterfront in the Jade Quarter. And I can tell you what your up against. The Guild is well known and highly influential within these lands. It's known for its trade with Tian Xia, which is over the Crown of the World in case you've never heard of it, as well as those along the rivers of these lands. There are merchants, their servants, the local economy, and who knows who else quite dependent on it." He explains.

"Their leader is Thorborg Silverskorr and she has quite the connections if I do say so myself. There are several of wealth and power right here in Kalsgard that she has such connections to. And word is, King Sveinn Blood-Eagle might just be one of those with said connections. But, that's just hearsay. Who knows how much truth that holds. Me personally? I wouldn't bet against it." He says as a matter of fact.


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

Raith squats down. He gazes at the ground for a bit. After a time he turns his eyes to Theoden, "Thorborg Silverskorr doesn't sound much like a Tien name. Are these Frozen Shadows Tien or Ulfen? For them to be involved in our business means they're working for someone concerned with our affairs. We need to find out who that is as well as get Izumi back. If we have a chance to capture one of their leaders, we do it."


M Aasimar Paladin/Warpriest 1st

"As far as the who or what these Frozen Shadows are, I'm not sure. But, as the witch stated, their leaders do not live within the city and they use the Rimerunner Guild as a front. So that is where we shall begin which in turn will lead us to your friend." He states with confidence.


You leave after breaking fast with great eggs from the Lands' west coast, served on thick slabs of blackened pork. As you reach the river docks in the Jade Quarter, things are even more lively than your usual dockside, with Tien vendors selling unlikely snacks and old folks shouting with gusto around an unknown but colourful game of coin.

The Rimerunners Guildhall is a building of masonry, two-story high. Its size, when compared to the other buildings, attests to the guild's power in Kalsgard. A large set of bronze doors is the main entrance point for customers. People come and go through with a relatively high frequency.


M Aasimar Paladin/Warpriest 1st

"Well we are here. Now we need to find someone who can tell us the location of the one in charge." Heading toward the entrance and walking through, Theoden looks for a guard or anyone who at least appears as if they might have information that will help them.


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

I believe you are the only diplomat in this group, Theoden. We are definitely not well set up for town interaction. This is your area of expertise, I will gladly support with perception and sense motive as needed.

"This is your town, Theoden. Let's take a look around the place."


M Aasimar Paladin/Warpriest 1st

Will definitely take all the Perc/SM help I can get. :)

Perception: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (15) + 7 = 22 Should've rolled this in previous post.


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

We're going to recon the place. Check out the guards, the general location of entrances and exits, walk the exterior, and check out the interior.

Pavel, Raith, and Garand will walk the exterior. We'll let Sorin and Theoden work the interior.

Perception:1d20 + 12 ⇒ (12) + 12 = 24
Knowledge (Local):1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24

We're looking for any personages, secret entrances, unusual activity, and anything that stands out.


Inside the building, Theoden and Sorin can spy a clerk at the main counter. People coming in are usually attired like merchants, traders or ship captains. The clerk is a young adult of Ulfen blood, wearing a thin blond moustache with hair short, at least for a Ulfen.

Outside, Raith, Garand and Pavel quickly notice the many guards circling the building. These are private as well as Watch guards, though they don't mix.

All windows are located above your head and adorned with four metal bars guarding entry. There is a door located beside the main double door, probably for staff, as well as another in the back of the building. That one could be for the owners, guards or as an emergency exit.

One of such patrols has spotted you and keep an absentminded eye in your general direction.

Is Bear spirit with you?

Liberty's Edge

(AC 19/t14/ff18, hp 62 of 68) Shoanti Cleric (of Erastil) 8

As Garand thought we were going to assault the place, preferably during the night, bear-spirit is definitely with him. He'll stay outside with bear-spirit if it's just going to be a social call.

Perception, if needed to see any signs of alternate entrances, etc. 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (16) + 7 = 23


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

We're trying to locate entrances to assault the place. I'm not sure what to ask to get any key information.


One double door in the front, two smaller doors, one on the side, one in the back. Lots of visible security around, some from the guild, some from the Quarter. All windows are hard to reach and have iron bars, on the ground floor, but not on the second floor.


Hp: 21/30; AC:19/19/17 (22 ward, 24 PfE)
Stats:
(Mage Armor, +2 AC 1/6); DR 10/magic vs. ranged weapons (40pts); Fort+6, Ref+3, Will+5 (+2 vs. enchantments, immune sleep, resist cold 5)
Half-Elven Wizard 6

Any opportunities to use invisibility to do a bit of scouting? If so I would like to cast it on Raith, using the Rod. So he should have plenty of time.

8 minutes invisible.


For sure if he wishes to test the doors or the bars on the windows, etc. To move into the counter space will be much trickier, and highly problematic if caught, but not undoable.


Hp: 21/30; AC:19/19/17 (22 ward, 24 PfE)
Stats:
(Mage Armor, +2 AC 1/6); DR 10/magic vs. ranged weapons (40pts); Fort+6, Ref+3, Will+5 (+2 vs. enchantments, immune sleep, resist cold 5)
Half-Elven Wizard 6

Meh. He's a monk. Moves like a breeze and all that. What do you say Raith old buddy, old pal? Ready to do your part for emperess and country?


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

No. I wanted to check the doors and go through the process of scouting to see if we obtained any useful info. If we're not getting any, then I'm going to assume we should move on to the assault. So let's just head back, plan your spell list for a building assault,and we'll get to it. As high as my Perception and Knowledge (Local) check was, from a pure metagame perspective there must not be any information to give. I like to feel out a module to see if we're missing anything. At this point I don't feel we are, so let's move on to the next part.


I think I've made it clear that a frontal obvious assault will get the whole city (or close) coming down on you, no? As I said, there are two other doors and you haven't tried to talk to people inside, though that access is clearly open as people come and go in the building, on business. You're in a busy district around one of the powerful guilds' guildhouse.


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

I've done my piece. I'm not a diplomat. Don't have the skills for it. I'm going to leave it up to the folks with the better social skills to try to figure out what we need to do to make progress. So one of you social guys are up.


Hp: 21/30; AC:19/19/17 (22 ward, 24 PfE)
Stats:
(Mage Armor, +2 AC 1/6); DR 10/magic vs. ranged weapons (40pts); Fort+6, Ref+3, Will+5 (+2 vs. enchantments, immune sleep, resist cold 5)
Half-Elven Wizard 6

Investigation it is then! Looks like we be patient and not upset the locals.


AC 19 Touch 17) FF 16; CMD 23 (25 Grapple) Hp 58/58
Spoiler:
+4 dodge bonus FD/ 6/6 ki points

Maybe pump the Ulfen clerk for info.

2,301 to 2,350 of 3,966 << first < prev | 42 | 43 | 44 | 45 | 46 | 47 | 48 | 49 | 50 | 51 | 52 | next > last >>
Community / Forums / Online Campaigns / Play-by-Post / Tora no Senaka - The Back of the Tiger - Jade Regent IC Thread All Messageboards

Want to post a reply? Sign in.