Tess, your plan specifically was to "Check the Grounds"... as such you see that about fifteen feet from the main gate is a long mud filled road that runs east-west.
The bandits are reported to have come always from the south. You can see about one or two miles over the plains, but not far because of the rising mists and fogs.
The north side of the palliside, inside, has three pits filled now with stagnant water and deluge. The pallaside walls are generally in modest repair, but the rain has not done them well. You suspect that a good ram would smash through the gate, in time. But unless they're bringing siege gear you aren't too concerned on THAT account.
The walkway to the grounds is twenty feet in height. But there are only two areas up. You may want to station at least one person in one of the towers; the height advantage will give you an advantage to Perception on the grounds around you.
You can put archers on the Walkway, and the towers, or Spellslingers, if you are interested in that angle. There is a large pile of wood for the fire, and some empty crates in the store houses, if you want to use them to build something or adjust them for aditional defenses.
Just know that whatever you do will be either very helpful, and therefore obvious. If you are obvious that could help, but the bandits will probably know about it from a distance.
"As YOU say so, miss," Brett says with a flat smile. "But where words fail, steel prevails, as MY folk used to say..." he adds sliding the musket from his saddle and the loop of cord dangling from it. He checks the priming and flint and steel, even as Gideon eyes his weapon somewhat dubiosly.
"Well, lass... get on it, we'll be back here then, to cover you as we may, IF you need covering..." he adds the last without a glance even as you are free to "make your move".
Ariarh could feel Brett's frustration with her. There wasn't anything she could do about that right now. She started moving warily but deftly toward the sleeping figures, every now and then surveying the camp. The men in the sleeping rolls still did not move (not even a twitch) as she drew closer. She could not see the faces of the bandits, so she kicked the back of one of the sleeping rolls with her boot. Nothing. She kicked again, a little harder. Nothing, again. She knew Brett and Gideon were watching on and could see the lack of movement from the sleeping bags. Her foot was not striking a discernible body, she surmised.
Ariarh moved quickly to the other two sleeping rolls and kicked one and then the other harder this time. Nothing moved. She turned across the way to her companions, calling out,
"There are no bandits in these bags."
Actually, that is NOT what happens. Let me proceeed...
After the party gets back from scouting the grounds and Tessara gets back from scouting the towers she looks at the group. I suggest that both Alaric and Smemdor do the interrogating while Leto's... she pauses and looks at Tabak for a moment ...Leto's friend over there stands in the corner not saying anything...its really creepy to be looked at by a guy that looks at that she turns to Tabak no offense. She then turns to the rest of the group again Leto and I will close the gate after the bandits arrive and then go hide in the towers with our weapons trained on them. If the group agrees with her she will pull Leto aside. I think it would be best for me to be a lookout in case the bandits come in waves, that way I can warn you and you can warn the others while I try taking out a few. I think you should still be in the tower with me where it is safe, but be watching to make sure the interrogation doesn't get out of hand. If it does we'll have to act quickly depending on how many bandits initially get trapped with in the walls.
Ariarh and Gideon... need to know if you want to do Skype at 9 pm, or just post as we go for combat. Either way works fine for me, but I will need to know Gideon's Skype contact if he wants to Skype.
At this point, the party has a chance to do several things. The most obvious is to prepare for a plan. Question is, what plan specifically?
I have heard a few options, but this will involve some teamwork to get things done properly. Let me know what your plan is specifically, then we shall get things ready...
I'll see if I can't play the usual "80's Montage Music" for getting things ready, like the A-Team theme song or something... :)
Kidding aside, once you come up with a specific plan. Choose the "leader" of the team who will put it into action. This person will have the modifier for the plan (theoretically), and the others may roll to aid. The modifier will depend on the plan. Once I know specifically what you will do, I'll let you know about the modifier.
As you get to the sleepin bandits you observe that they are, indded, sleeping. Whether or not they are bandits or simple travelers you don't know clearly at this time.
They are covered in mud and filth, and they seem to have a scruff on their face; they clearly have not washed or shaved in some time. They hold their blankets tightly around them, and based on their appearence, you would guess the reason they are still asleep is that they slept poorly through the night; and are most likely exhausted.
This strikes you as odd. If they came from the south surely they would have known that only about five miles north of them of them is an outpost where they may have found shelter in the rain. If they did NOT know that... why are they here?
Well, no matter...
---Ariarh moved quickly to the other two sleeping rolls and kicked one and then the other harder this time. Nothing moved. She turned across the way to her HIDDEN companions, but BEFORE she can call out ---
"What the blazes is this? cries the one who she kicks.
His eyes snap open and though they are bleary, they are fierce and awake. He stares up at her with startled expresion, even as his two companions rouse themselves.
"Miss, I dunno who you's be, an I dun't care. But you done picked the wrong day to be kicking a lad when he be sleeping!"
One of them startles suddenly and moves back in a half crawl-crouch even as the speaker utters his words. The other leaps up in the mud, somewhat more sure-footed. His leg moves back for better balance and he flashes his hand to the hilt of a long shortsword on his hip.
Roll Initiative Ariarh
Initiatve Roll for people on the hill
Ariarh and Gideon... need to know if you want to do Skype at 9 pm, or just post as we go for combat. Either way works fine for me, but I will need to know Gideon's Skype contact if he wants to Skype.
No worries, you're currently down at the bottom of the hill with the horses. Brett asks if you want to hold the horses there, or if you want to try to hobble them with some cord, and then move up with him to offer "cover". He seems to be concerned about Ariarh's ability to carry out her plan alone, even though she mentioned some power.
His worry strikes you more of a somewhat need to be a "propper male gentleman" as opposed to doubting her talents. It seems to rankle him that she is taking the risks while the two "men-folk" are hiding back.
But for now he will defer to your plan. Ariarh is at the top of the hill at this point.
"As YOU say so, miss," Brett says with a flat smile. "But where words fail, steel prevails, as MY folk used to say..." he adds sliding the musket from his saddle and the loop of cord dangling from it. He checks the priming and flint and steel, even as Gideon eyes his weapon somewhat dubiosly.
"Well, lass... get on it, we'll be back here then, to cover you as we may, IF you need covering..." he adds the last without a glance even as you are free to "make your move".
Gideon eyes Bret's weapon curiously as he has never seen a cannon made to be held in on hand. However, he has seen enough of the world to know that there are many wonders he has yet to experience.
I saw we sneak as close as we can and disarm the bandits from a distance. I can remove their unattended weapons from thirty paces. Short of that we get the drop on them and knock em senseless. Do try not to kill them outright unless they force our hand.
At this point, the party has a chance to do several things. The most obvious is to prepare for a plan. Question is, what plan specifically?
I have heard a few options, but this will involve some teamwork to get things done properly. Let me know what your plan is specifically, then we shall get things ready...
I'll see if I can't play the usual "80's Montage Music" for getting things ready, like the A-Team theme song or something... :)
Kidding aside, once you come up with a specific plan. Choose the "leader" of the team who will put it into action. This person will have the modifier for the plan (theoretically), and the others may roll to aid. The modifier will depend on the plan. Once I know specifically what you will do, I'll let you know about the modifier.
You guys at the outpost specifically. There are many things you CAN do, but nothing specifically has decided. Once you haev decided what to do, decide who the group's de facto "leader" is, and then make it work. But, for example, let's say you want to do the whole day reworking the walls and rebuilding them? Okay, then I will say roll "Knowledge: Engineering" and we'll make it work from there.
If you want to do something like gussy up a Diplomatic approach, we'll try to get the place "fixed up" for your presence and the chance to make things work properly. This will require a different roll; probably a Knowledge: Nobility Roll.
Remember, these rolls are to "prep" things. When you actually put them into place, the modifiers you earn in preperation will effect your new moves. So if you choose to roll a good Knowledge: Engineering, you may gain bonus's to cover, or bonus's to your Diplomacy check based on your Knowledge: Nobility roll... or something else entirely, depending on what you all decide on.
Ariarh and Gideon... need to know if you want to do Skype at 9 pm, or just post as we go for combat. Either way works fine for me, but I will need to know Gideon's Skype contact if he wants to Skype.
No worries, you're currently down at the bottom of the hill with the horses. Brett asks if you want to hold the horses there, or if you want to try to hobble them with some cord, and then move up with him to offer "cover". He seems to be concerned about Ariarh's ability to carry out her plan alone, even though she mentioned some power.
His worry strikes you more of a somewhat need to be a "propper male gentleman" as opposed to doubting her talents. It seems to rankle him that she is taking the risks while the two "men-folk" are hiding back.
But for now he will defer to your plan. Ariarh is at the top of the hill at this point.
Gideon quickly hobbles the horses with some chord and ties them to a tree. Then heads up the hill with only his robes (and armor under) as well as his staff to help Ariarh and motions for Brett to come with him, but quietly.
Ariarh and Gideon... need to know if you want to do Skype at 9 pm, or just post as we go for combat. Either way works fine for me, but I will need to know Gideon's Skype contact if he wants to Skype.
No worries, you're currently down at the bottom of the hill with the horses. Brett asks if you want to hold the horses there, or if you want to try to hobble them with some cord, and then move up with him to offer "cover". He seems to be concerned about Ariarh's ability to carry out her plan alone, even though she mentioned some power.
His worry strikes you more of a somewhat need to be a "propper male gentleman" as opposed to doubting her talents. It seems to rankle him that she is taking the risks while the two "men-folk" are hiding back.
But for now he will defer to your plan. Ariarh is at the top of the hill at this point.
Gideon quickly hobbles the horses with some chord and ties them to a tree. Then heads up the hill with only his robes (and armor under) as well as his staff to help Ariarh and motions for Brett to come with him, but quietly.
*grins* This assumes they ARE bandits and Ariarh didn't just assult some poor travelers.
But in either case there are clearly three of them. In the low hill, in the swampy deluge from the rain, there is enough mist that you can hide yourself and move pretty quietly. It will take some time to get to the top of the hill. I know you won't be able to tonight, but when you get 100 feet from the "bandits" both you and Brett will seperate and move to flank Ariarh. You are both about 100 yards behind her, having left to follow her shortly after her trip and not waiting.
In a wide circle around her, you can make your "stealth rolls". I'll make Brett if you're still up, make yours. If I don't hear from you, I'll make yours in a moment.
Brett's stealth
After the party gets back from scouting the grounds and Tessara gets back from scouting the towers she looks at the group. I suggest that both Alaric and Smemdor do the interrogating while Leto's... she pauses and looks at Tabak for a moment ...Leto's friend over there stands in the corner not saying anything...its really creepy to be looked at by a guy that looks at that she turns to Tabak no offense. She then turns to the rest of the group again Leto and I will close the gate after the bandits arrive and then go hide in the towers with our weapons trained on them. If the group agrees with her she will pull Leto aside. I think it would be best for me to be a lookout in case the bandits come in waves, that way I can warn you and you can warn the others while I try taking out a few. I think you should still be in the tower with me where it is safe, but be watching to make sure the interrogation doesn't get out of hand. If it does we'll have to act quickly depending on how many bandits initially get trapped with in the walls.
Well we can worry about interrogation after we capture them. Let's not put the cart before the horse. Here is my idea for a plan. Tessara, I would like you hidden in one of the towers when the bandits come, to cover us down here and also to shoot any that manage to flee. Shoot to kill if it goes poorly. As I said we do not want word to get back to the others. Smendor, you and I will be under an illusion that I will place of a group of barrels stacked by the guest house or by the main house. We will be able to see them through the illusion but they will not be able to see us unless they come over and interact with the barrels and perhaps not even then. When they are all inside the gate, Leto, you and Tabak will be hidden behind the gate and slam it shut when they are all in. That will be the signal. I will drop the illusion and cast a spell into their midst that should either disable or put to sleep at least 3 or 4 of them. Tabak, and Smendor can charge in weapons drawn Tessara can drop a couple of arrows on them and if they are smart faced with such overwhelming force the remainder will throw down their weapons. I do not believe these are the type of people to fight to the death. Questions? Concerns? Comments or changes?
As you get to the sleepin bandits you observe that they are, indded, sleeping. Whether or not they are bandits or simple travelers you don't know clearly at this time.
They are covered in mud and filth, and they seem to have a scruff on their face; they clearly have not washed or shaved in some time. They hold their blankets tightly around them, and based on their appearence, you would guess the reason they are still asleep is that they slept poorly through the night; and are most likely exhausted.
This strikes you as odd. If they came from the south surely they would have known that only about five miles north of them of them is an outpost where they may have found shelter in the rain. If they did NOT know that... why are they here?
Well, no matter...
---Ariarh moved quickly to the other two sleeping rolls and kicked one and then the other harder this time. Nothing moved. She turned across the way to her HIDDEN companions, but BEFORE she can call out ---
"What the blazes is this? cries the one who she kicks.
His eyes snap open and though they are bleary, they are fierce and awake. He stares up at her with startled expresion, even as his two companions rouse themselves.
"Miss, I dunno who you's be, an I dun't care. But you done picked the wrong day to be kicking a lad when he be sleeping!"
One of them startles suddenly and moves back in a half crawl-crouch even as the speaker utters his words. The other leaps up in the mud, somewhat more sure-footed. His leg moves back for better balance and he flashes his hand to the hilt of a long shortsword on his hip.
Roll Initiative Ariarh
Initiatve Roll for people on the hill
1d20 + 2
Initiative:
Leto nods at Alaric's plan. "While I still feel we may have been better to speak to them beforehand, and perhaps shed less blood, if we must fight, that sounds like the way to do it." He motions to the giant. "Tabak is strong enough to close the gates, possibly with a bit of help from me, though my mighty thews aren't quite what they could be." He jokingly flexes. [b]"I suppose this plan is the best we have.
Well we can worry about interrogation after we capture them. Let's not put the cart before the horse. Here is my idea for a plan. Tessara, I would like you hidden in one of the towers when the bandits come, to cover us down here and also to shoot any that manage to flee. Shoot to kill if it goes poorly. As I said we do not want word to get back to the others. Smendor, you and I will be under an illusion that I will place of a group of barrels stacked by the guest house or by the main house. We will be able to see them through the illusion but they will not be able to see us unless they come over and interact with the barrels and perhaps not even then. When they are all inside the...
After the party gets back from scouting the grounds and Tessara gets back from scouting the towers she looks at the group. I suggest that both Alaric and Smemdor do the interrogating while Leto's... she pauses and looks at Tabak for a moment ...Leto's friend over there stands in the corner not saying anything...its really creepy to be looked at by a guy that looks at that she turns to Tabak no offense. She then turns to the rest of the group again Leto and I will close the gate after the bandits arrive and then go hide in the towers with our weapons trained on them. If the group agrees with her she will pull Leto aside. I think it would be best for me to be a lookout in case the bandits come in waves, that way I can warn you and you can warn the others while I try taking out a few. I think you should still be in the tower with me where it is safe, but be watching to make sure the interrogation doesn't get out of hand. If it does we'll have to act quickly depending on how many bandits initially get trapped with in the walls.
I have a question, if none of them run and we get the gate shut successfully you said you want me to shoot arrows down at them, do you want me to hit them and possibly kill them or do you want me to just scare them into surrendering? Depending on number I could do both but it really depends on how many their are. And what do you want to do in the mean time? We don't even know they're coming today...
The offended party member eyes you up and down. He looks at the lad with the shortsword and speaks side-long to him in a tongue you may recognize, but you cannot understand (goblin).
"Whoa lads, not too hard on this one. See her face? Don't spoil the looks. Chelish'll pay fine coin for her, so long as we don't go blabbing to Kressle, hey?".
The two men are their feet rise to standing position, and third eases his hand of his dagger, and slides a long, low club, not unlike a "night stick" looped from his belt and raises it.
At this point, Arairh, you are now flanked by the one with the night stick and the one you kicked. The other lad is moving slowly away towawrd the bag of gear. None of them are more then 15 feet from you.
They have not taken any direct action, but seemed geared for a fight.
Leto nods at Alaric's plan. "While I still feel we may have been better to speak to them beforehand, and perhaps shed less blood, if we must fight, that sounds like the way to do it." He motions to the giant. "Tabak is strong enough to close the gates, possibly with a bit of help from me, though my mighty thews aren't quite what they could be." He jokingly flexes. [b]"I suppose this plan is the best we have.
They are a combination of clay and clay tiles overlayed on top of thatch on logs. They are sturdy, and CAN burn, but it would take a very hot fire a long time to get to the thatch. It seems unlikey that anything will really burn today, via the bad rains, however.
Oleg agrees with your plan, though. And helps you with barrels, and gets them ready to fill with water. Each barrel is about 50 gallons. Filled they should be about (including the weight of the barrel, 420 lbs... the barrels are 20 lbs each in the meantime).
...Well we can worry about interrogation after we capture them. Let's not put the cart before the horse. Here is my idea for a plan. Tessara, I would like you hidden in one of the towers when the bandits come, to cover us down here and also to shoot any that manage to flee. Shoot to kill if it goes poorly. As I said we do not want word to get back to the others. Smendor, you and I will be under an illusion that I will place of a group of barrels stacked by the guest house or by the main house. We will be able to see them through the illusion but they will not be able to see us unless they come over and interact with the barrels and perhaps not even then. When
After the party gets back from scouting the grounds and Tessara gets back from scouting the towers she looks at the group. I suggest that both Alaric and Smemdor do the interrogating while Leto's... she pauses and looks at Tabak for a moment ...Leto's friend over there stands in the corner not saying anything...its really creepy to be looked at by a guy that looks at that she turns to Tabak no offense. She then turns to the rest of the group again Leto and I will close the gate after the bandits arrive and then go hide in the towers with our weapons trained on them. If the group agrees with her she will pull Leto aside. I think it would be best for me to be a lookout in case the bandits come in waves, that way I can warn you and you can warn the others while I try taking out a few. I think you should still be in the tower with me where it is safe, but be watching to make sure the interrogation doesn't get out of hand. If it does we'll have to act quickly depending on how many bandits initially get trapped with in the walls.
What kind of monster do you think I am... wait... have we met.. :)
Scare them into surrendering at first. Kill them if they resist.
You should know I am not very good at hiding. It would be much better if I just stand on the inside of a door or something. You can see Smendor is not joking he really cannot hide. His armor makes all kind of sounds when he is simply standing still breathing.
I will simply enough hear the gate close and know it is time to jump out.
We also need a person on the wall standing guard now not later.
Bit of bad luck (or good luck, as may be)... Arairh's power is down so her internet is donw. She can't do anything for the fight for the night... so we will pick up in the monring. I am only working one job tomorrow, so I should be back by 3:00 pm and we can pick up from there.
Gideon, can you send your Initiative roll by then? We can pick up as soon as I get back from work. Sorry gang, I had hoped to finish the fight today, and then give you new details by the time I got back from work.
Hmm... ALTHOUGH....
Griffon Dior's Initiative...
Dior fly's like a bolt of golden lightening at the scum with the club. Talon's extended, beak parted, and eyes ablaze, he stabs his tiny claws out and attacks.
Charge Attack:
IF he hits; claw, claw, bite
She doesn't understand what they're saying to each other. Damn, she mutters to herself. I hope backup arrives soon, thinking of Brett and Gideon.
These men do not look all that intelligent to Ariarh, though the one with the nightstick looks rather intently at her.
She decides to cast an entangle spell in the direction of all three bandits who are currently within range.
Ariarh undertakes a reflex save, as she doesn't want to be trapped within the tall grasses and weeds with the three bandits.
She doesn't understand what they're saying to each other. Damn, she mutters to herself. I hope backup arrives soon, thinking of Brett and Gideon.
These men do not look all that intelligent to Ariarh, though the one with the nightstick looks rather intently at her.
She decides to cast an entangle spell in the direction of all three bandits who are currently within range.
Ariarh undertakes a reflex save, 1d20+2 as she doesn't want to be trapped within the tall grasses and weeds with the three bandits.
All bandits are now struggling with the entangle spell. Each one has their own save.
One with Club
Once on ground
One by bags/gear
Well... Gideon's Initiative
Okay, bandit guy on the ground pulls out a dagger from his pouch and throws it at you. As you are entangled, you lose you your Dexterity Bonus.
The guy with the dagger throws it at you
The other guy struggles with the gear and pulls up the bow and arrows. But he is having trouble knocking an arrow.
Well... Gideon's Initiative
1d20 + 4
Okay, bandit guy on the ground pulls out a dagger from his pouch and throws it at you. As you are entangled, you lose you your Dexterity Bonus.
The guy with the dagger throws it at you
1d20 - 1; 1d4+1
The other guy struggles with the gear and pulls up the bow and arrows. But he is having trouble knocking an arrow.
Griffon Dior screeches with unparralled rage, banks his attack and attempts to close the distance with the one who threw the dagger. His pride unslaked, his terror unmatched, he attempts to claw, claw, bite the guy on the ground.
The man lets out a terrible scream even as Griffon Dior tears open his throat and he gurgles up a spout of gouted blood and gore.
At the same time a snap and bang explodes from behind you. Someone has fired a musket...
If the hit is successful, the lad going for his bags is the one wounded. If not, the world may never know WHO was fired on!
The man on the ground reaching for his bags is terribly wounded. The one that Griffon Dior has attacked is ravaged and bleeding out, a fine red mist splattered across his face. The final man, the one with the club is furiously trying to free himself
At this point a tall half-orc (Gideon) comes crashing through the fens... his face like cold death.
"Move and you shall perish!" he roars out in a fierce command; his fiery. "Throw down your arms and raise up your hands and you may yet live... "
Sliding through the low grasses like a silent wraith is Brett, the musket slung over his back, and two pistols out, cocked and pointed at the remaining villians.
"Don't tempt me, lads... I've two pistols... one for each of you," he utters with a growl.
At the same time a snap and bang explodes from behind you. Someone has fired a musket...1d20 + 6; 2d4
If the hit is successful, the lad going for his bags is the one wounded. If not, the world may never know WHO was fired on!
Ariarh stopped struggling 'neath the grasses and weeds. She needed to speak up but first she took a breath to calm herself.
She raises her voice to be heard by all but not so it is shrill. She needs to keep it calm and open.
Diplomacy:
"Gentlemen. Please. Hear me out. Firstly, it was not my intent to disrespect you when I roused you from sleep. I was not sure if you were friend or foe and I was simply trying to nudge you awake so we could talk. I went about it badly due to my inexperience and for that I sincerely apologise.
We were not here to kill you, this was not our initial intent, you have my word, and to me my word means everything. My griffon companion was attacking only in my defence and unfortunately your comrade has paid a hefty price and I am sorry for this turn of events. His death was not premeditated by myself or my companions.
I ask you to consider surrendering. I would rather a peaceful recourse and outcome and I cannot see any other way to achieve it but through your surrender. I swear to you that this is not a ploy to have you lay down your arms so we can kill you. I would see peaceful discussion. What say you, gentlemen?" Ariarh tries to instill as much warmth and positivity in her final sentence and awaits their response.
Ariarh stopped struggling 'neath the grasses and weeds. She needed to speak up but first she took a breath to calm herself.
She raises her voice to be heard by all but not so it is shrill. She needs to keep it calm and open.
Diplomacy: 1d20+9
"Gentlemen. Please. Hear me out. Firstly, it was not my intent to disrespect you when I roused you from sleep. I was not sure if you were friend or foe and I was simply trying to nudge you awake so we could talk. I went about it badly due to my inexperience and for that I sincerely apologise. ...
"For gods's sake, don't kill us, don't kill us," screams out the one fumbling with the club, after throwing it into the thick magically enhanced brambles and trying to show he is not doing anything threatening.
"Oh shut up, Tim!" says the other, sagging into the grass. "If they wanted to kill us we'd already be dead. Show some gods damned dignity, why don't you," he adds with a grimace as the pain from the wound makes it hard for him to breathe.
Brett moves out slowly with his pistols out, trained on the two of them, eyes cold.
"Lady, are you well?" Gideon asks Ariarh even as she admits she was not been wounded.
"Hey, Gideon lad, what say I keep these two covered while you tie them up. Then we take their gear, horses, and miserable selves back to Oleg. See if they've something useful to say with the right bit of questioning... 'Sides, mayhap the other folk back at the trade post could have some questions for them. There be some there who's... shall we say... more 'deft' in interogating then I," he adds with a malicious gleam to his eye, but a cunning wink at Ariarh even as the two scum miss it.
"While I'm all for the sentiment... how do we know, in fact, that they are indeed the very same bandits we seek, and not some poor bodies we ambushed by accident? Gideon asks, a somewhat troubled look on his face.
"Because I speak a fair shair of different lingo, and goblin be one of them tongues I speak. I heard him when the lady was here... they be villains; bandits or otherwise, and need justice. But I think it be too much of a coincidence that they're here, eh? What say we get them back home and get everyone involved in the talking, not just as three? Mayhap some back home might have their own line of questions."
"Lady, are you well?" Gideon asks Ariarh even as she admits she was not been wounded.
"Hey, Gideon lad, what say I keep these two covered while you tie them up. Then we take their gear, horses, and miserable selves back to Oleg. See if they've something useful to say with the right bit of questioning... 'Sides, mayhap the other folk back at the trade post could have some questions for them. There be some there who's... shall we say... more 'deft' in interogating then I," he adds with a malicious gleam to his eye, but a cunning wink at Ariarh even as the two scum miss it.
"While I'm all for the sentiment... how do we know, in fact, that they are indeed the very same bandits we seek, and not some poor bodies we ambushed by accident? Gideon asks, a somewhat troubled look on his face.
"I'm well, Gideon. Just my pride's taken a little beating is all." Ariarh directs a smile toward Gideon and then looks over at Brett, her smile somewhat embarrassed but relieved and understanding of the subtle wink.
"I agree that it's a good idea to take them back and so we can question them with the others. We've been gone a fair while and we're returning with no food -- Oleg will be slightly displeased in that regard, but perhaps when he sees these two he'll perk right up."
Gear on the bodies you collected
- Three light riding horses
- 6 days worth of trail rations
- 4 daggers (total)
- 1 long bow, quiver (20 arrows)
- 3 light spears
- 3 suits of leather armor
- 3 sets of saddles, bridles, etc.
- 50 feet of rope
- 2 short swords
- 1 club
- flint and steel
- 1 pair of manacles
collected coin
GP 39 pieces, SP 27 pieces CP 18 pieces
NOTE: The dead man, killed by Griffon Dior, his leather armor is recognized by Brett (and pointed out too) as the red and black heraldry of Cheliax, though it is terribly worn out by the weather and well damaged, most likely several years old.
Brett adds that he thought he caught them mention a name – “Kressle”.
”Well, not quite the breakfast Oleg may have been looking for, but not bad for a monrning’s work, eh? The way I see it we split the coin three ways, but as for the gear? Well, I suppose the right thing to do is to give it back to them it was took from; namely Oleg. Unless any of you want a bit o’ this hash? But I say that the lad’s had it rough out here; what better way to cover his losses then taking some of the bandit’s own gear and selling to the next lad who comes to his trading post? Any thoughts?”
If there is no objection, you can each take 13 GP, 9 SP, and 6 CP. The prisoners and the body are tied and slung over the remaining horses while you take your own gear back with theirs to Oleg so you can show these scum to your mates and question them there properly. If anyone wants to help themselves to the rest of the gear, now is the time to ask for it.
”Well, not quite the breakfast Oleg may have been looking for, but not bad for a monrning’s work, eh? The way I see it we split the coin three ways, but as for the gear? Well, I suppose the right thing to do is to give it back to them it was took from; namely Oleg. Unless any of you want a bit o’ this hash? But I say that the lad’s had it rough out here; what better way to cover his losses then taking some of the bandit’s own gear and selling to the next lad who comes to his trading post? Any thoughts?”If there is no objection, you can each take 13 GP, 9 SP, and 6 CP. The prisoners and the body are tied and slung over the remaining horses while you take your own gear back with theirs to Oleg so you can show these scum to your mates and question them there properly. If anyone wants to help themselves to the rest of the gear, now is the time to ask for it.
"If there are no objections, I'd like to take the manacles on top of the coin. Just as a precautionary thing, of course. They'd come in handy in case we need to restrain a prisoner in the course of our travels. The rest, I agree, should go to Oleg in order for him to recoup some of his losses. Unless Gideon is wanting possession of any of the remaining items?" Ariarh looks over at Gideon, eyebrow quirked.
Ariarh then walks over to the bandit who was wounded by Brett's musket. Dior is perched on her shoulder, gaze fixed on the man. She has no overall pity or sympathy for his predicament but she would rather he survived so that the group could interrogate him back at the trade post. Plus, it wouldn't hurt to have him think she was one of the "nice guys". Opening her satchel, she takes out her first aid kit and treats the wound just enough, bandaging it so he doesn't bleed out on the ride home.
Diplomacy:
"Sir, please don't make me regret my kindness. We could have killed you, but we didn't. Remember that."
Out of the corner of her eye Ariarh spied Gideon watching her, quietly.
"If there are no objections, I'd like to take the manacles on top of the coin. Just as a precautionary thing, of course. They'd come in handy in case we need to restrain a prisoner in the course of our travels. The rest, I agree, should go to Oleg in order for him to recoup some of his losses. Unless Gideon is wanting possession of any of the remaining items?" Ariarh looks over at Gideon, eyebrow quirked.
Laughing heartily
It would seem your words are a bit quicker than mine. I was just going to recommend someone keep the manacles for the same reason you said. As for the rest of the gear it should be returned to Oleg. Any of it he cannot use perhaps he can sell to recoup his losses from the previous banditry as well as his many houseguests
Ariarh then walks over to the bandit who was wounded by Brett's musket. Dior is perched on her shoulder, gaze fixed on the man. She has no overall pity or sympathy for his predicament but she would rather he survived so that the group could interrogate him back at the trade post. Plus, it wouldn't hurt to have him think she was one of the "nice guys". Opening her satchel, she takes out her first aid kit and treats the wound just enough, bandaging it so he doesn't bleed out on the ride home.Diplomacy: 1d20 + 9
"Sir, please don't make me regret my kindness. We could have killed you, but we didn't. Remember that."
Out of the corner of her eye Ariarh spied Gideon watching...
Glaring at the bandit
And be sure you don't confuse kindness for weaknessIntimidate
Smendor walks around the area of the site a little (A1). He seems to be counting. The plan is worthless 8 riders 8 horses and our little group will not even fit in this space. There is no way ever one of the aggressors with enter this enclosed space so we can trap them.
Again looking around the area we really need to work on this place. We need to add more bracing to the main door, move this wagon, and make sure all the other internal doors have a good lock on them. We do not want the fight to move into a building where no one can find you.
Looking to Oleg Do we have a stock of good hard lumber to make the improvements?
Apologies to all! The Charter has just been forwarded to your email sites. You should have it now.
Also, be it known that for sake of sanity, until I prepare a propper calander, all "months" are equal to our months. That is, the current month is "September" and the current day (the monring after you arrive) is the 30th.
The year is 4710.
Okay, company comming but expect good news and the chance to put your heads together in a few hours after my company leaves. Also, if you're about there MAY BE a battle tonight. Though it is likely to be play by post, not skype... So be advised, that should be later tonight, try to keep an eye out for that if you want to participate; we're looking at around nine pm Eeastern Standard time.
Holy Dog Farts Batman Brevoy is really a long way to the north. We are going to be hitting really cold days in just a few more weeks/month. I assume we may already be getting under the freeze line in early October. It seems to be between Moscow / North Alaska when it comes to the location. We are also a long way from water so we will get cold. We are about 200 miles south of the northern ice cap.
I believe you mean "upper east corner" not west...
Also, the majority of the campaign is south of Brevoy, specifically the disputed "River Kingdoms". Cold? Quite cold, actually. That's one of the reason that Oleg does most of his business in furs from trappers.
But that's also (no doubt) why everyone brought appropriate warm weather clothes... Further, this should lead you to some theories and clues which will become apperent in my next post.
Even as you begin preparations to get things set up, you hear a startled sound from one of the towers. Your lookout has spied something!
Everyone quickly moves to position, and Oleg hurries up to see for himself what there is to observe. He lets out a large laugh, and slaps his thigh with a large calloused hand.
”By thunder! They’re back!” he calls out with genuine pleasure.
You each look out and observe that the three companions who broke bread with you last night are returning. In between them is a row of horses linked together with a large rope. Bodies are slung over them, and bags of gear are drooped over them as well.
For those of you who had not caught his appearance earlier, Brett looks like another person. He proudly on the back of his steed, a falcon at his wrist, and the blue and white falcon of an Aldori nobleman are on his chest.
When the three of them arrive you can see that between Ariarh, Gideon and now Brett are three men draped over the horses. Two of them are alive, and clearly bound. The last seems to be dead, or at least unconscious. A small travois has been rigged up behind the last horse and a pile of goods and gear has been lumped onto it. You quickly see pouches, bags, and some other miscellaneous camping supplies.
”Wha… What happened?” Oleg asks with surprise and interest.
”These lads here be bandit scum, or so we’re to believe,” Brett answered curtly. ”You recognize any of them? he asks Oleg.
Oleg moves forward to the one slumped over the saddle and upturns his face, seeing that the body is dead; the throat cut open by something fierce. Even then Dior is perched on the dead man’s back, preening.
”Aye, him for sure, and I think the other fool there,” Oleg adds, indicating one that has been bandaged.
”So… what happens now?” Oleg asks.
”First things first, we need them separate for the questions we’re going to ask, I’d think. Anyone have a spade?” Brett asks somewhat rhetorically.
”Take that one around back and have him bury his friend, while take THIS one,” he says with a gesture to the remaining bandit, the one with fresh bandages on ”and work him over right proper inside. The other fellow ain’t much for smart words, I think this one’s got the brains. Meantime mister Oleg, the rest of the gear’s yours for the keeping; horses, tackle, gear, whatever you like. Not quite the breakfast I planned for you, but it’ll buy you more when others come by your fine business.” he ends, staring at the two bandits.
One of them is weeping like a frightened child; the one he called the “brains” of the operation is leaning up to give you all cold, stoic looks. Dior is rooting his little talons in the top of the dead man’s back, staring at the “smart bandit” as if eyeing a new meal.
”After their words, I’ll get a few nooses, and we hang ‘em.” Brett adds flatly. ”They’re lawbreakers, and as a sword Scion I’m charged with bringing them to justice. Banditry is punished by rope or sword, so we hang ‘em. But that shouldn’t stop you from getting the words you need from them,” he adds with a cold look at them.
Pulling a pistol and dragging the weeping one by his arm, he tugs the man onto the ground and indicates the corpse of his riding companion with the barrel of his pistol.
”Get a shovel, get a spade, grab the body and come along… you’re digging the hole for him, not I.” Brett adds as Oleg nods sagely at the pronouncement, clearly glad he does not have to be the one to make the decision to hang the men.
”Oh,” Brett calls over his shoulder ”one more thing. I’m thinking these be advanced scouts. You may want to do your questions quick with this lot, it may effect what plans you have, if any.”
I'll keep things cool for a bit. Is anyone planning on interogating anyone, or gathering any information? Le me know... I can wait for a bit if anyone is planning on doing anything.
We may do Skype, but I need to wait for anyone to try posting questions for these wretches.
I'll keep things cool for a bit. Is anyone planning on interogating anyone, or gathering any information? Le me know... I can wait for a bit if anyone is planning on doing anything.
We may do Skype, but I need to wait for anyone to try posting questions for these wretches.
To the one that spoke Goblin earlier
Speaking in Goblin;
If you make some effort to be helpful it's possible that you'll live through this day. Perhaps talking can serve you better than banditry. Of course if you'd like to die a slow painful death by hanging that's your choice.
intimidate
I'll keep things cool for a bit. Is anyone planning on interogating anyone, or gathering any information? Le me know... I can wait for a bit if anyone is planning on doing anything.
We may do Skype, but I need to wait for anyone to try posting questions for these wretches.
To the one that spoke Goblin earlier
Speaking in Goblin;
If you make some effort to be helpful it's possible that you'll live through this day. Perhaps talking can serve you better than banditry. Of course if you'd like to die a slow painful death by hanging that's your choice.intimidate 1d20+3
Oleg has hustled this last fellow inside the main gates. The horses have been stabled, and the gear has been looked over. So far, the rest of the "team" is still standing still, watching Gideon's work, except for Brett who is forcing the weeping bandit to burry his friend around the corner behind the gate.
The bandit looks up your attempts to Intimidate him.
"You trying to muscle me? Yeah, whatever... You got me in a noose, I'm gonna die no matter what you promise. Either you kill me, or the boss kills me when he comes; he won't let me live if I help you. He sure as hell won't let YOU live... Face it, bub... we're all going die today," he adds flatly as he looks up at you.
"You trying to muscle me? Yeah, whatever... You got me in a noose, I'm gonna die no matter what you promise. Either you kill me, or the boss kills me when he comes; he won't let me live if I help you. He sure as hell won't let YOU live... Face it, bub... we're all going die today," he adds flatly as he looks up at you.
in a voice so calm as to be somewhat disturbing
I have no such intentions, but it would seem you've chosen the path of the coward. So be it.
To whomever was talking about hanging him
He is at the mercy of the law of the land. Do with him as you see fit. I'll assist as you instruct.