GM Ridge's "Throne of Night" (Inactive)

Game Master Ridge

You think myself and Hanarr not sufficient for the task? A Tarnhammer and a Diamondheart? Dolgrin says with eyes narrowed at the perceived slight.

Kragg shrugs noncommitally at Dolgrin's comment remembering the dream from the night before. Patience and time, patience and time... If that is what you wish to believe I will not correct your thinking. Instead I will tell you my concerns. I am concerned that an arrow from the shadows striking him before the threat is noticed is the danger. That and not having a way to heal his wounds are my concern and why I am going to stay with him. I am not questioning your abilities at all Dolgrin unless it is the ability to heal wounds.

Kragg keeps a smile on he ace to try and show that there is nothing malicious in his comments but he hopes it doesn't come off as patronizing.

Though his nervousness at the uncivilized deeps has faded, Modnar looks uncomfortable at the mention of speaking with the King. "Based on my . . . debates in the Circle, I am not sure I will be an asset in a diplomatic meeting. Dolgrin, Hannarr, how much experience did your clan forbears give you in politicking?"

Looking again to Harvald, Modnar asks, "By chance, does Fasturvalt have a school of wizardry or mages' guild? In my experience, your people are excellent illusionists." Given what may lie ahead of us, making inroads with fellow mages would be a prudent maneuver.

I'm fine with Dolgrin's proposal for the visits.

Dolgrin looks lifelong at Modnar "I am a Tarnhammer, raised to unite the clans and speak at the Moot. I can treat with the King, I would require the Diamondheart's assistance though. "

-Posted with Wayfinder

Modnar nods at Dolgrin's statement. "Excellent. I am glad to know our struggles of late have not weakened our clans' traditional strengths.

"I see merit in Kragg's reasoning. If we wish to stick together, I can bite my tongue as needed while meeting King Geirni."

I'm still fine with splitting up if everyone else agrees to do so, but I get where Kragg is coming from, too.

As yet another 'discussion' between Kragg & Dolgrin ramps up, Anka leans over to Ulfgar, "Ke biero estas sonanta sufiĉe bona pri nun..." she mutters, shrugging fatalistically.

Watching the back and forth Ulfgar nods his agreement, "Yep sed sonas kiel korpogardistoj devon daŭre" he mutters back.

Kragg hears and ignores the comments from Anka and Ulfgar as it does not matter to him what the others do. He did not ask them to stay with Harvald and in fact likes the idea of an ale himself. Yet he committed himself to a course and was going to see it through regardless of how good the ale is.

I am fine with everyone doing what they want. If people want to go different direction that is fine with me. No problems or hard feelings at all :). Just Kragg is going to do what he said he was going to do. Kragg may be chaotic but he still has his integrity and stubbornness to carry it through to the end.

No worries as a ranger and also the "grunt" as Anka referred to herself and Ulfgar, he is used to following duty over preference. Duty sends you out after the shepherd in the snowstorm when preference would have you by the fire and a cold mug. :-)

"The" Diamondheart has more experience with politicking and than he cares to have Hannarr says with a rueful grin. The halls of human academia are a surprisingly fractious dueling ground. I will happily stand by Dogrin to meet this gnomish king. I am a little saddened that the sheriff's widow will likely here of her husband's death through rumour and hearsay while we are doing so however. Kragg, I understand your concern, and your word of honour that you have given here, but remember we are brothers in arms now - Your vow to keep Harvald safe is all of ours- Dolgrin and I will not fail you in this. Take Ivvy, go to the widow.

Modnar scratches his left cheek with one finger, and his brow furrows in thought.

"While I am not much for the actual talking, I may be able to assist with our tactics. Traveling as one into an audience may be construed as an act of aggression -- particularly if we meet opposition who wants us seen so. A smaller party might make for smoother parlay. Dolgrin and Hannarr are the obvious choices for speakers, assuming the svirfneblin remember anything about our clan structure and histories. Another of us might accompany them as a military retainer -- either Ulfgar or Anka would excel at that.

"I will happily accompany Ivy to inform Gunther's widow of his death, but I have little experience with consolation."

Looking again to Harvald, Modnar asks, "By chance, does Fasturvalt have a school of wizardry or mages' guild? In my experience, your people are excellent illusionists." Given what may lie ahead of us, making inroads with fellow mages would be a prudent maneuver.

"No, no, flattering to say. All of us have gifts with some illusion magics...blinding foes and the like though there are precautions some can take to twhart us. We've got some dabblers in arcane study, but the only real spellcaster might be Miatha Always-A-Song-Follows. Popular woman, runs the Blue Bat Tavern Ivy's so fond of."

Kragg will stay with Harvald like he stated. I understand the logic but at the same time Kragg is the only 1 that can heal wounds at this time. I don't want anything to happen to Harvald. Nothing personal.

In common to Modnar, Yes Ivy may cause some trouble but I am not leaving Harvald's side. If Anka and Ulfgar are going to the tavern then she can go with them.

Dolgrin says nothing to the cleric, but he pointedly refuses to look at him for the insult given. Dwarves hold grudges.

Harvald, can you secure an audience with your Lord Gierni for us? We would like to speak with him, and explain our actions.

Hannarr sighs and tugs at his beard. It had been a long time since he had interacted this much with his kin, and he had forgotten how very...dwarven... they could be.

Very well then. How about this? It will take time for the gnomish king to receive us - what monarch has never kept a guest waiting? We send these other ahead (we rescued more than Harvald and Ivvy, yes?) to request an audience while we bear Sherrif Gunther's body to his family then call on the king.

In Hannarr's mind, the duty to family will always outweigh the duty to one's sovereign

Very well then. How about this? It will take time for the gnomish king to receive us - what monarch has never kept a guest waiting? We send these other ahead (we rescued more than Harvald and Ivvy, yes?) to request an audience while we bear Sherrif Gunther's body to his family then call on the king.

"Sounds fine to me, you know my mind," Ivy says, "I dont' much respect the king anyway."

The other gnomes you rescued nod at Hannarr's suggestion, Xath speaking up, "We'd be happy to do that much and owe you. If it'll help keep Harvald safer and at the same time honor Gunther's memory, I doubt you'd have anyone of us arguing the point. We're okay at men at arms, but we seen you lot fight and there ain't no comparison on who would be better at guardin'. Off we go then," And all the deep gnomes you saved with the exception of Harvald and Ivy head off to make arrangements.

Unless someone else does it, Harvald picks up the still wrapped body of his fallen sheriff, struggles a bit, but manages to hold him aloft and says "This way."

You make your way to the residence, drawing more eyes and stares from other svirneblin as you do. There, Ivy knocks on the door and then steps back to let one of you greet the widow.

Esmara (For that is her name And I may have gotten it wrong earlier ) is of age with her late husband, as she comes fully into view, confusion washes over her face at a group of dwarves at her door. Then she sees Harvald holding a blanketed body,and it is not hard for her to guess what has transpired.

"I... I should have," tears break down her cheeks, "Tis him, isn't it Harvald? My husband's in there..."

Harvald's response is a very sad and simple, "Yes. It's him. I'm sorry."

"Please, please, all of you come in, bring him inside." She opens the door wide for you.

Perception checks please

Perception: 1d20 ⇒ 12

Translate for me please Diamondheart. Dolgrin says in Dwarvish before speaking to the widow in the same language, hoping that the multilingual Hanarr will translate for him.

Your husband died from murder most foul Mistress. His killers have faced their judgement and now plead their mercy from the Gods. We are Dwarven explorers traveling through this land, but our honor demanded that we act to restore his bones to you. We fear a wider plot threatens your town. Did your husband have enemies here? Dolgrin hopes his ignorance of the Undercommon or Gnomish tongues doesn't harm his delivery to the widow.

Perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7

Hannarr nods at Dolgrin's request and translates his words into undercommon, doing his best to . He is mildly surprised by the tact shown by the normally blunt Tarnhammer.

untrained Perception: 1d20 ⇒ 17

perception check 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10

Kragg says little as Dolgrin speaks as he does not want to interrupt what the dwarf is saying. Depending on how the widow is taking the news though Kragg will console her as best as he can either by stating how brave and loyal his comrades spoke of him in the last moments or try to get her to remember some of the better times she had with him.

Modnar cuts his eyes about the room while keeping his head tilted downward, trying to avoid making eye contact with the suddenly bereaved Esmara. He mutters softly in Dwarven, "I should be used to this by now."

Perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (9) + 4 = 13

perception: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (19) + 5 = 24

Ulfgar stands quietly with the group also somewhat surprised at the change in tone from the Tarnhammer; although he shouldn't be, leadership sometimes required totally different responses, depending on the situation. He takes a moment to view the interior of the gnomes home.

Sorry been sick, feeling much better today

Esmara hears the translation And for ease, I'm just going to assume everything is translated from now on unless folks specifically say otherwise and casts a grateful look at Dolgrin, "You are kind, sir. Would that more had such hearts to show the strength of compassion as you all are for a stranger. My husband was not in favor in court any longer, but his true concern was the dark elves. And now... well. It seems his fears were justified."

Dolgrin nods in thought as Hanarr translates Indeed Mistress, we fear the Dark Elves had a hand in his death, but we have very little proof. Did your husband speak of any proof he had? We should convince the King of the Drow plots.

Starting from his position, Ulfgar charges the corner attempting to tackle the gnome with the crossbow, yelling as he goes.

"Dolgrin danger in the corner, Harvold DOWN!!"

Ridge not sure of the layout, but Ulfgar will place his self between the gnome and Harvald as he goes. if he can maneuver to the deep gnome he will attempt to grapple.

grapple check: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 4 = 8 -.-

Probably should roll initiative at this point. Also, I'm considering Dolgrin unarmed at this point because I'm sure the gnomes don't want an armed band of ruffian dwarves running amok in their town.

Init: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (12) + 0 = 12 Dolgrin, without his weapon or shield on him, moves to block Harvald from the indicated danger Trying to act as Cover

Immediately, as Ulfgar cries out the warning, Anka summons a burst of light in front of the hidden assailant.

Cast Flare immediately in front of the gnome.

Inits please for those besides Dolgrin

initiative: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12

Ulfgar's hands are also clear, same reasoning as Dolgrin.

As Ulfgar calls out his warning, Modnar curses himself for not paying closer attention to the surroundings.

Initiative: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22

init 1d20 ⇒ 11

Initiative: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 1 = 5, seriously?

Initiative: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18

Init from 'minion of dark forces 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18

To speed things up, I'm going to assume those who go first but haven't posted actions are 'holding' so to speak and carry on with those after them who have posted. Sound good?

A twang of a handcrossbow fires and a bolt sings its way towards Harvald
To hit: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7

And misses as the dwarves move before Harvald protectively, some of them willing to take the hit FOR their new found ally. Indeed, Dolgrin stands like a wall before the new sheriff.

Ulfgar attempts to grapple his foe, closing the distance. He's rewarded by a panicked stab of a dagger with the would be assassin's other hand.
AOO to hit: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 2 = 17

The dagger finds purchase, barely, scratching along the ranger's belly.
Dmg: 1d3 ⇒ 2

And while a bit slower to respond than others, Anka's flare spell is all the brighter for the soft luminescence of the mushrooms and such being it's main rival.

Fort save: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6

The enemy, unused to such bright light, cries out in confusion.

And is dazzled. Those that haven't posted their actions can go ahead in pretty much in order for their round 1. Dolgrin is currently providing +4 cover to Harvald at risk of getting his own self hit if it comes to that as his round one action.

Modnar whips his warhammer from his belt with one hand, while reaching into his component pouch with the other. He withdraws a tiny spade and begins intoning, "ចុះជាន់ថ្ម"

Casting stumble gap under the would-be assassin. -- Reflex DC 16

GM, do we even have our weapons at hand? I was assuming that we did not.

Do not harm the gnome! Capture him! I will guard Harvald. Dolgrin calls out in dwarvish to his kinfolk.

Dolgrin will continue to act as a shield for Harvald until either new enemies arrive or the threat is dealt with.

Kragg sees the threat after the bolt flies past Harvald. Right idea Ulfgar, try to take him alive if possible.

Kragg will fire a acid bolt above the gnomes head trying to distract him to aid Ulfgar in grappling the gnome.

aid to hit 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 1 = 18

To aid in a grapple you have to enter the grapple. I'm pretty sure aid another actions are only for skill checks, to hit on attacks and AC

Ulfgar will try once more to restrain the gnome, grabbing for him once more.

not sure if Moldnar's stumble gap will affect me or not, since I am trying to grab someone in the block he cast it on

grapple: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24 to grab the gnome

reflex for stumble gap if required: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (15) + 5 = 20

The gap would only be an issue if you stepped through where I placed it. Depending on the gnome's save, he's either still standing in it himself or prone next to the gap. In either case, you should be good.

Reflex save: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7
As for weapons, while some of you were not carrying them, and I think for quite respectable reasons, others didn't say they were doing the same and I'm not going to dictate to them that they suddenly don't have their weapons.

roll 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7

The stumble spell does its work, causing their assailant to fall forward.
A flickering bolt of acid makes it so a certain assassin doesn't WANT to rise...and already dazed, he's easier prey for Ulfgar. The Dragonbone scion wraps his well muscled arms about the deep gnome, binding him in a cage of muscle. Struggle as the svirneblin might, he cannot shake free.

Fight over

Harvald gazes at the bolt that missed him, "Gnome bane? How did he get his hands on THAT? It's death for our kind." Dolgrin can see what he means, some sort of poison is on the bolt.

Hannarr stares incredulously at the bolt quivering in the door frame, then to the would be assassin wrapped up in Ulfgar's arms. He realizes with some shame that the whole incident had finished before he even knew it had started, and resolved to not be so complacent in the future.

Ahem, he coughs as he snaps out of his shocked reverie. Harvald, madame, do you recognize this ner-do-well?

GM, was this assassin concealed within the widow's home? Where exactly did the attack come from?

Modnar's shoulders raise as he realizes the struggle is over. He looks and smiles at his hammer, then places it back in its belt loop.

"If we were worried about losing our evidence in the skis'raal lair, that problem may have resolved itself."

"Gnome poison huh, someone mind checking that knife this little runt used?"

Ulfgar will maintain his grip until someone ties the would-be assassin up. Plenty of rope in this group I do believe :-)

"By the Deep Father! This rogue will answer for his crimes. Poison is a cowards weapon... we should check the surroundings for further conspirators. " Dolgrin says as he looks around anxiously.

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perception: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (5) + 5 = 10 can Ulfgar spot anyone esle hanging around to cause trouble

survival: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 5 = 8 can I find the trail the gnome left moving into his previous position.

Once the gnome is secured Ulfgar searches for signs of others or this one's entrance.

I'm guessing no to both questions from those beautiful rolls -.-

The attack came from outside the home, near the corner of another building, but quite close.

"Never seen him before in my life," Harvald says, "Maybe he's from one of the other cities, or maybe he just laid low."

While the hand crossbow had poison in use with it, the knife did not. Perhaps the assassin just didn't expect to do more than shoot and run.

As for the assassin, he glares at you, even as you bind him and throw him to the ground. He says nothing.

Dolgrin apologizes to the widow I am sorry Madame, but the danger seems to be over. We should get you inside. to Harvald, Dolgrin says Your life is in danger. We need to bring this one to the King.

untrained Perception: 1d20 ⇒ 3...
Gee! Look at them sconces!
I was going to say that Anka was watching out for this one's 'spotter/observer'. Obviously, she either doesn't see anything, or is completely convinced that they were here & managed to get away...

Seeing nothing Ulfgar takes a seat on the gnomes back for a moment to keep him still, making sure to keep his ankles away from the gnome's mouth.

"I'm thinking we need to get Harvald to the king but just as quick we now have a second problem. This guy here wont last long if we dawdle, his friends will make sure of that. Then again I don't fancy being a pin cushion due to his friend's bad aim. Maybe we should make him walk about 10 feet in front of us. I'll toss a noose around his neck and cinch it up enough so's he can't wriggle free. Then if anyone should aim at him we'll all be safe."

All of this has been said in a deadly calm voice with some additional emphasis placed on the word friend each time; also said in slow clear common. Don't know if the gnome speaks common but want to give him every chance to know what is being said.

bluff: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (15) - 1 = 14