Kemnebi blinks, even as the two groups start their noisy charge. He then slaps his hand over his eyes, and drags it down until it pulls his slight muzzle almost parallel to his body.
"Ask,... Rowan,... for,... tickets,... Now why didn't I think of that?!?" He grumbles wryly.
'Thoronhen! Can you get us tickets? If so, I'm more than happy to take Llevinoc's advice and leave my new, large, friends here to their fun! I'm a lover, not a fighter!' He adds with a wink to Nebibit and surprising good humor, considering his predicament. He seems to be gaining strength from somewhere, or perhaps it merely took a situation with no easy escape to bring out his confidence.
Sigh, Kemnebi you remind me of a younger brother. I just have these protective feelings for you when you say stuff like you just did. I will get us some tickets and have us be spectators for now. My earlier plan would have been better. I apologize to everyone for my earlier words. They where hasty, and though they do reflect my feelings they where not precise and only one sided. I have some tickets for us all, Kalona I have one for Aahz as well, but you should be a "familiar" on his shoulder. Meet me at the statue of the Were-statue that I had mentioned before.
The wizardess responds:
Currency, hmm, I am not sure. I have never paid for anything, when I say I want something; I get it; its taken care of by the Guild. <she chuckles a sweet little laughter> you dont get to be the guildmasters magic backup worrying about the price of ball game tickets. I told the Pursuer that my team was playing; he said he would see that I had tickets; I believe him.
Depending on what your buying; Drachmas (Greek money) and Danarians (Roman money) would be normal; though of course; trade is usually the way some...more rare things...change hands. There are, of course, darker systems of currency such as blood and souls, but I dont recommend you deal with those systems as this juncture in your quest. It might not be healthy for all of your team. I am sure your Drow De'tana'uthan spend here. There are money changers about if you need one.
The guild scalper replies: Only 10; I heard you would have more than that; what no guards; gets pretty rough in there; heck the Agents dont sell in lots left than 20; you sure you only want 10; you know; that means you will be splitting your section with someone or something else; up to you though. now; I got some tickets right at mid field; I got some on the end there up high; I got some box seats; more secure you know; and I got some some in the nosebleeds; you know; cheap seats where the lowlifes sit.
Sigh, Kemnebi you remind me of a younger brother. I just have these protective feelings for you when you say stuff like you just did. I will get us some tickets and have us be spectators for now. My earlier plan would have been better.
'Um,... Thank you?' Kemnebi replies, giving Nebibit a confused look. Then the young feline realizes what Thorenhen just said.
'I mean, Thank you! We'll meet you by your statue!' He replies gleefully. With a careful look to make sure his once and future wrecking crew are suitably occupied, he tugs Nebibit's elbow and heads out of the line, towards the statue described by Thoronhen earlier. After a few steps he stops, looking at the kitten still sitting calmly in the ticket booth, nibbling on her treat from the table, apparently still unnoticed by the ticket crew, and totally non-plussed by all of the earlier excitement.
Kemnebi takes a deep breath, and sighs with a smile.
"I wanna be like you when I grow up!" He mutters.
He ambles down the line to within hearing distance of the booth, and hisses in feline. "Come on kitty, we've got tickets now, we're going in." He says with a smile.
"Well we have the tickets now at least" Nebibit says whilst looking down at the Kitten
Well I finally reach the Stadium (Dagnabit these short stumpy legs)and I look around for the fight. Dagnabit there is no fight. Get all dressed up for a mosh pit and there turns out to not be one. I over hear Thorenhen, Nebibit & Kemnebi and make my way over to the Were statue, Putting my axe/hammer away.
In the mind link (sounding a little down & cheated): Thorenhen your forgiven for ye earlier outburst I hope I be as well. Nebibit, Kemnebi what happened to me durned fight. Here I run all this way to save you from 2 vicious hordes of semi-humanity and when I arrive there is naught but calm and quite. I know it twas not by yer doing but ye got an old dwarf all excited fer nutin. Need I remind ye of the story of the Elf who cried werewolf one time to many and finally got eaten when no help did come? Well at least you be ok. Do ye want a drink? I can provide ye with Hot coffee, warm milk, or cold brew name ye poison?
The wizardess responds:
Currency, hmm, I am not sure. I have never paid for anything, when I say I want something; I get it; its taken care of by the Guild. <she chuckles a sweet little laughter> you dont get to be the guildmasters magic backup worrying about the price of ball game tickets. I told the Pursuer that my team was playing; he said he would see that I had tickets; I believe him.Depending on what your buying; Drachmas (Greek money) and Danarians (Roman money) would be normal; though of course; trade is usually the way some...more rare things...change hands. There are, of course, darker systems of currency such as blood and souls, but I dont recommend you deal with those systems as this juncture in your quest. It might not be healthy for all of your team. I am sure your Drow De'tana'uthan spend here. There are money changers about if you need one.
I am sure membership has its benefits. Hopefully Thoron got us box seats. I definately would like to see the game up close. If the De'tana'uthan spends here I will be fine. I believe Thoron said for us to meet him over by a statue of a werewolf. Is that it over there?
Nebibit, Kemnebi what happened to me durned fight. Here I run all this way to save you from 2 vicious hordes of semi-humanity and when I arrive there is naught but calm and quite. I know it twas not by yer doing but ye got an old dwarf all excited fer nutin. Need I remind ye of the story of the Elf who cried werewolf one time to many and finally got eaten when no help did come? Well at least you be ok. Do ye want a drink? I can provide ye with Hot coffee, warm milk, or cold brew name ye poison?
'I apologize Kosan. I assure you I would NEVER cry werewolf, er, mislead a dwarf about a fight, intentionally.' He replies through the link while grinning at Nebibit.
'Fear not noble dwarf. I have it on good authority that, one way or another, we shall soon have all the excitement we could ever wish for. In recompense for getting your hopes up prematurely, you are welcome to my share sir!' He offers sincerely.
'Hm. Normally I would request a warm milk. But after THAT close call, I'd be grateful for a taste of your, um, 'brew'. Thank you!' Kemnebi adds. His relief at the narrowly avoided brouhaha still clear and evident in his thoughts, as is his gratitude at the dwarf's offer.
'Hm. Normally I would request a warm milk. But after THAT close call, I'd be grateful for a taste of your, um, 'brew'. Thank you!'
I meet up with Kemnebi & Nebit at the statue.
Talking out loud to them: Ha, Ha, who ordered a brew (I hand over my flaggon after saying beer and make it cold) to Kemnebi. Drink up my furry friend drink up. What of you Nebbit would ya like a drink also?
I then tell them all that transpired while they were gone. The strange encounter with Axinious & boldragered and their retinue of the macabre. Of the Godling and ask why they got cursed because from what I hear they look like the individuals father who cursed them and he hates his father? Of what was not talked about and what was. Of the defeatist attitude of the party after the meeting & of how I had to verbally slap a few heads to get them ta focus. and so forth...
"I'll pass thanks" Nebibit then nods quietly whilst listening to Kosan speak.
Kemnebi 'mrows' his gratitude, and carefully takes a sip of the heady stuff. He did intend to just have a sip, or two. But Listening to Kosan talk, he continued to sip, and when the dwarf was done telling of the meeting, he finds that he has finished the entire flagon. HE hands the magic mug back to Kosan with another 'Thank You' and a small burp. He finds himself pleasantly relaxed, but otherwise unaffected by the drink.
,...OK, it's a good thing that he wasn't planning on driving a chariot anytime soon, But he's fine, really.,...
Kemnebi stretches a bit, enjoying the relaxing of his shoulder muscles, and mulls over what Kosan has just told them. He absent-mindedly pets both Hathor and the Kitten as he thinks, much to Hathor's displeasure.
"Amazing. Only a few days ago I would hardly have believed such a tale possible, and yet now I believe it without even blinking. While I still have a great many questions, some things begin to make sense, slowly, and I see other parts falling into place. I am most excited about meeting this young man, 'Oz', and speaking with him." He says, his brow still furrowed in thought, displaying none (or at least little) of his usual uncertainty.
"I do apologize for missing the meeting, I had no idea it would be so,... monumental. But at first I was trying to protect the Kitten here, and then when I realized,... Well, it's important. To be honest I'm not sure I could convince you or anyone else of it if I tried, but it is." He states with conviction.
Kemnebi's eyes narrow in thought, and he turns to Nebibit. He whispers in feline;
"And don't think that I didn't notice that you stayed with me, when you didn't have to, and when it put you into danger to do it. I wish you hadn't risked yourself on my account,... But I'm grateful that you did. I'm glad to have one sane friend here with this group of crazies!"
Kemnebi smiles, then looks around, his youthful exuberance showing once more as he hisses in frustration. "Where is everyone? I still have a meeting to keep!" He mrows in impatience as he rubs the kittens head once more.
You know; I would rather you tell them than tell them you told them; that way it would have your slant on things; make an int roll for memory and you can cut and paste quotes from the conversation. That way we avoid any future, "i thought Kosan told me..." type grey area.
BTW; those three and Kalona are still standing out there; the populous still looks a bit dazed and confused; the Death Knight is walking his horse over to the three w/kalona; you can see that on a perception spot dc 13 (+1 if your short) which means you can all see it taking a 10; timing wise; though Thoronhen hasnt finished his negotiations for which seats he wants; that would be done before you get there; so continue on but reserve on that unless he decides to ask you guys for input.
Dc 14 spot; you can see the group with Llvenoc and Kalona coming up from the South southeast of your postition (relative); though Kosan; you can make a roll on that
The arena itself is stone and very very old; with wooden ramparts and doors; iron bound and wrapped in mystic symbols; the place looks like a fortress with high walls; the outer walls here are 120ft high; massive grey things; the lower 10 ft or so is full of grafitti and gang markings and slogans; the upper area is various advertizements; a few hanging bodies of those who got caught trying to sneak in; and massive guild symbols; nobility signet markings; and the like; some of those look to be exacting works of art and though on the wall; must have cost a small fortune and taken much painstaking time; this place is obviously of great import to this city.
Above the door that your near; there is a great symbol of the diety Mercury; dc 10 if your greek or roman; up to dc 20 if your from some other continent; and race such as Kalona. those in the party who are blessed by him; are drawn to the symbol and know it instinctively.
as you draw closer to the arena, hrough the open doors; you hear a din of noise not unlike a battlefeild with thousands and thousands; considering most undead are not very vocal; you can guess this place probably holds 50 or 60 thousands of seats; Think of this place much like the Superdome and you wouldnt be far off. The massive undertaking of this place is amazing even to the dwarf; probably took non dwarves a 30 or so years to build this thing; and there must be a quarry around here...
'Hm. Normally I would request a warm milk. But after THAT close call, I'd be grateful for a taste of your, um, 'brew'. Thank you!'I meet up with Kemnebi & Nebit at the statue.
Talking out loud to them: Ha, Ha, who ordered a brew (I hand over my flaggon after saying beer and make it cold) to Kemnebi. Drink up my furry friend drink up. What of you Nebbit would ya like a drink also?
I then tell them all that transpired while they were gone. The strange encounter with Axinious & boldragered and their retinue of the macabre. Of the Godling and ask why they got cursed because from what I hear they look like the individuals father who cursed them and he hates his father? Of what was not talked about and what was. Of the defeatist attitude of the party after the meeting & of how I had to verbally slap a few heads to get them ta focus. and so forth...
hehe kemnebi; this is a gass; you cannot drink the entire flagon; you can try but will end up flat on your back; its magic; and quite interesting to you; you can as much empty this flagon as you can empty the sea. DC 24 religion check Norse for a similar story of a magic item, if you knew any viking in your background; then only dc 18 as they trade with Eygpt.
Kemnebi 'mrows' his gratitude, and carefully takes a sip of the heady stuff. He did intend to just have a sip, or two. But Listening to Kosan talk, he continued to sip, and when the dwarf was done telling of the meeting, he finds that he has finished the entire flagon. HE hands the magic mug back to Kosan with another 'Thank You' and a small burp. He finds himself pleasantly relaxed, but otherwise unaffected by the drink.
,...OK, it's a good thing that he wasn't planning on driving a chariot anytime soon, But he's fine, really.,...
Kemnebi stretches a bit, enjoying the relaxing of his shoulder muscles, and mulls over what Kosan has just told them. He absent-mindedly pets both Hathor and the Kitten as he thinks, much to Hathor's displeasure.
"Amazing. Only a few days ago I would hardly have believed such a tale possible, and yet now I believe it without even blinking. While I still have a great many questions, some things begin to make sense, slowly, and I see other parts falling into place. I am most excited about meeting this young man, 'Oz', and speaking with him." He says, his brow still furrowed in thought, displaying none (or at least little) of his usual uncertainty.
"I do apologize for missing the meeting, I had no idea it would be so,... monumental. But at first I was trying to protect the Kitten here, and then when I realized,... Well, it's important. To be honest I'm not sure I could convince you or anyone else of it if I tried, but it is." He states with conviction.
Kemnebi's eyes narrow in thought, and he turns to Nebibit. He whispers in feline;
** spoiler omitted **Kemnebi smiles, then looks around, his youthful exuberance showing once more as he hisses in frustration. "Where is everyone? I still...
the kitten jumps down from the ticket agent; comes over to Kenmebi; looks him in the eye; then trots off quickly to the doors; looks back and enters the arena.
dc 18 to watch the kitten
it seems to blink from shadow to shadow, like stepping into another reality and back as it takes the same time as walking or thereabouts, yet moves past the gate guards and like with ease; though the guards are very alert and stop even little creatures and take there tickets; the cat is very stealthy and quick. Once inside it becomes harder to spot due to distance; at dc 22 [spoiler] the cat seems to be afraid; and is huddled down in maybe terror; little kitten is overwhelmed; trembling and cant move but its hair is standing straight up.
Kemnebi listens to Kosan as he sips from the flagon, it slowly dawns on him that the mug is still full. He inspects the flagon with a wary eye, blinks several times, smacks his lips, and slowly hands it back to Kosan with murmured thanks and a small smile.
When the Kitten once more hops down and starts into the arena, Kemnebi rolls his eyes towards the heavens, only to meet the unyielding view of the stone of the cavern far above.
"Aw no,... Here we go again!" He moans.
just some clarifications; ok; the little girl and older brother are gone; my bad; Aahz and Kalona are probably walking up in one group; Llvenoc; with all the rest coming up in another group; but from the same direction and farther away.
Above the door that your near; there is a great symbol of the diety Mercury; those in the party who are blessed by him; are drawn to the symbol and know it instinctively
What does it take to become a player in this game?
The wizardess replies: Desire; strength; some start up money or a sponsor, speed and a team; though a little insanity helps; why do you ask?
The wizardess replies: Desire; strength; some start up money or a sponsor, speed and a team; though a little insanity helps; why do you ask?
My heart pounds at the mere sight of this stadium. Hearing the roaring cheers echoing from within. I know I want to compete. Yet I have never seen this game. I have to play!
That's what I be waiting fer.
AAhz and Kalona walk up; deep in converstation...
Perception
"Uh were did the Kitten go?" Nebibit asks after somehow losing sight of it
"There it is! I see it! Why is he not waiting? COme on Thoren,... Wait, NOW where did he go?!?" He asks with an obvious note of trepidation in his voice. HE tenses, and looks as if he may go after the kitten, tickets or no tickets,...
Llvenoc and the rest of the party join up.
To the guards; the Wizardess of the left hand shows her badge and hands a note "Their all with me; provide escort to my viewing room, Find the Geek; have that toad brought to me."
she holds her head up and ignores the guards; impetuously.
the guard bows and barks some orders; 5 guards come up; "escort her and her guest to Guild of the Body.
They snap too: the leader is a hairy, foul smelling humanoid with long tusks and a powerful frame.
"at yur pl sure Mistress of Woe and Death"
"these are all with me, <she gestures>"
"very very Mistress, Boyz, clear the Mistress a path lest I clear you of me sight; now boyz; he slapps two upside the head <they stumble> they are strangely hairy; I mean like a musk ox; they even have ox like horns.
"Follow them Llvenoc; any of your who wish to come; we can accomidate; shall we"
<sorry thoronhen; gave you a chance to handle this; but cant keep the party waiting any longer, you can still take care of ordering drinks and stuff.>
Erkholt followed quietly behind Llvenoc and the others. He was trying to keep a low prfile amongst the rest of the guards and other members of the party. They had given Astinos warning about his aura of good being a beaon in this town, but none had thought similar of the dwarf. One of his power who followed the lawful aspect of Morhadin and was a protector of the innocent would also shine like a bright light to those who cared to search for such things.
He would play a quiet observer until called upon to act, hoping not to bring the wrath of the undead down on his friends.
"Follow them Llvenoc; any of your who wish to come; we can accomidate; shall we"
The guards smack some heads and kick some hynies and generally bully their way through the crowd, speaking of the crowd the place is packed and the din of noise is thundering.
The arena itself is oval and the field and this game is played on dirt; in the arena feild area; it is raining moderately; but the feild is slick much like clay; there are cruel iron barbs sticking out of the ground in random places; the two teams are viscously pounding each other; Goblins vs Ogres; There are 9 Ogres on the field; and 8 goblins who have a cave troll who is even bigger than the Ogres; who are each around 9 ft tall and about 6 ft wide and about 4 foot thick and solid as can be with thick massive arms, necks; legs and barrel chests. They are wearing jerseys of a sort and mismash spiky armor. In the little bit of play you see walking to your seats; the Goblins seem much more nimble on the slick clay; but everyone is covered in mud and lots of players go down; (roll perception if your watching the game)
On the bench you can see about 40 goblins with team jerseys (which is on this side of the field) and oppossite side you can see about 4 other Ogres' the ogres have one dead (obviously as his wounds arent bleeding and he is missing a leg) and there are about 12 dead goblins and about 5 in various injured states. The teams are yelling; the crowd is yelling; the cheerleaders are cheering; did I say cheerleaders; yep; there is the Ogre coach; and assistant; and two ogre females in skimpy outfits dancing and cheering; EEK! Actually except for their faces they dont look bad; their bods are ripped with muscle and quite a bit of hair; but they seem athletic.
Well, the goblins have 3 coaches; 4 assistants; an apocathary, 5 goblin cheerleaders who are about 2.5 ft tall and wearing next to nothing, hehe and their pom poms have spikes and chains and who knows what strands of what make up the rest; they also have a fair amount of female spikes; meaning not as big; and makeup; yes, makeup; The cheerleaders are on the far side of the goblin bench; opposite you so you dont see them very well; though the crowd in that area is silent with their mouths open; practically drooling; they look spellbound; must be goblin magic.
ok; so you move through the crowd; after a few hits and kicks and a couple beating from guards; the crowd lets you though and you begin to climb the wide stone steps up the area to your viewing box; you can see that the viewing boxes surround the top of the arena and are each practically armored bunkers that hang off the wall inwards toward the areana like hoardings of a castle. Their are logos and avertizing and grafetti everywhere; and venders selling food, drink, weapons, icons; and god knows only what from little carts and pouches as they move around. My the noise; the noise in the stands is such you cant talk; and if you have good hearing like elves or catpersons; it is way way to much; you can barely think.
ok; when you get to the box seats; it is plush, no expense lacking; with a bar and bar tender; a cook with a pantry and several pots and skillets and many plush deep seats; thier are viewing windows and tubes ; there is also in the back of the room a hologram of the game from a topdown view.
The majority of the races present are undead humans; just gaunt looking but some are less guant than others; ghouls are obvious as are mummies; lots of spectral, ghostly types (probably of those killed watching the game); but there are also a whole lot of all kinds of evil races like orks, hobgoblins and goblins though not many of the chaos races so only a few bugbears or ogres; there are a fair number of drow, a few giants, duegar (evil dwarves), a pack of redcap fey, a whole lot of spriggans (who seem to root with and hang with the goblins); there are various types of trolls here and there (getting food thrown to them with no body (only spirits) sitting close. There are also Xvarts, Kenku, Gith, Flinds, various lycanthropes; some humans, Thri Keen, Grimlocks, Hags, Minotaurs, and a fair number of Outsiders like Efreetis; Demons, Devils; and a sprinkling of whatnotever else that might be interested in games; violence or those watching, wishing, dreaming, desiring upon such games.
But.
by far the most populous are those hooded and secretive clumps of humanity or near humanity that in in little pockets thoughout the stands; also; each group no matter who; seems to leave an arms lenght space at least from other groups.
at a booth opposite yours across the arena; can be seen the Game Cup trophy; it is in the Lords of the Game booth; ie; immortals or nearly such who adminster the game and keep it mostly neutral.
the Goblins seem much more nimble on the slick clay; but everyone is covered in mud and lots of players go down; (roll perception if your watching the game)
The game is pretty interesting; sometimes a ogre eats a goblin when the ref is busy sometimes their own troll eats one; sometimes he throws a goblin with the ball to advance down the field; goblins run between legs; sometimes get stomped; the Goblins are currently winning 7 to 6, but might run out of players at this rate. Lots of sliding and either side gets mauled by the iron obstacles.
I am quietly appaled at what passes for entertainment in this demented land.
We can do this... Guys lets form up a team. Come on Kemnebi I am sure you are quick on your legs. You would be a good runner. Kosan Erkholt. You guys would make a solid line. Don't tell me you wouldn't enjoy cracking in the skulls of some Goblin or Ogre heads. I have a good arm. I can be the Quaterback. Thoron I bet your hands are quick enough to be a receiver. Astinos... Think of the glory of a Paladin rising up to the challenge and winning in an evil cities arena! You can be the Center of our line. Think of how many souls you can turn to good with your heroics on the field. No matter what dirty tricks they try to pull and you stand triumphant. Think how inspiring that will be.
Grymbol can be our safety. Small enough to sneak through the lines, and tackles like an Ogre. If June and Decidio would cheer for us, and sway the crowd to our side. Nebebit to keep us healthy. Lady Aestella, and Namaste helping us from within the crowd. I know we can win. What do you all say?!?
the goblins manage to score; doing an option play and a hail anyone down range throw; the goblins toss a long bomb; it bounces off three goblins and a ogre; but the goblins come up with it; an ogre smacks him and he lands still holding the ball in the end zone...he doesnt get up; the goblins go crazy celebrating; the fans go crazy; a heavy mug get thrown from somewhere in the stands and bounces off the skull of one of the ogres; makes him made; but doesnt seem to hurt much.; the Ogres set up to recieve the kick; the goblins pry the ball from the dead gobby and give it to the ref; the ref cleans the ball; the goblin team gets replaced with guys on the bench; two of them having very very large helmets with big spikes as compared to the other players; the goblins get in two clumps with the team centered around the guy with tee big helmet; a kicker the three goblins on the line run for their lives; back to their team mates; the ogres chase them; the two small clumps of goblins herd the two big heads toward the ogre with the ball. (guess he has limited visibility. kicks the ball to the ogres; who pick it up and start their thunderous charge down feild; The ogre blockers send a few goblins skittering; the runner is right behind the main blocker; the blocker two big helms are right in front of him spaces side to side; the goblins are behind him about 15 ft pretty close to their own goal line; the Ogre blocker hits the first big helm goblin and their is a thuderous explosion; it blows off the ogres hand and part of his arm and the goblin is just gone; little sucking hole in the ground; the Ogre falls over; it dazes the ogre behind him a bit; the other big head goblin dives on him; blows up; and the ball is knocked loose; the goblins come up with it; a short lateral pass and the goblins score again; score now 9-6; goblins favor; two Ogres knocked out; the ref blows the whistle and yells at the team and the coach; but without a body to blame or haul off to jail; it seems death of the offender is penalty enough though there seems to be a whole lot of dissappointment over not having a body.
Llvenoc's gaming analysis...so far
With your skill of Game Theory and Analysis from Ruckles; the most difficult game in the world; you see many patterns though more will be evident as you see more of the game.
First; the Goblin strategy (as they have the ball; is for everyone except one or two goblins and the troll to go down field; some ogres chase them; some tackle or get tackled by the cave troll (who regenerates); either the goblins chuck the ball downfeild and hope their guys come up with it; or run to the Troll who throws them downfield; who then generally fumbles the ball and the goblins being quicker; generally come up with it. Explosive players; what else might these two teams have up their sleeves.
The Ogre strategy is to all charge down field crushing anyone in their way; but the goblins have lots of tricks up their sleeves. As you will note; with your perception roll; you see several goblins in full game gear; sneak onto the goblin game bench; which is behind a wall; the goblins seem to have a tunnel; they go down and crawl under the stands; under the wall; come up inside; then the players drop them a rope down and the climb up; it all done with a lot of confusion; there is only one ref so he cant see everything.
The most fans are definately on the Goblins side; though the ogres seem to be favorites with the bigger races.
"Are you out of your mind??? Lokk at these people, they cheer for wanton destruction and carnage. You think life is a game? Are you really that suicidal? In bettle there is glory. In War and in fair competition."
"But this....this is madness"
As I am standing by a table that I have moved up to the edge of the wall, to get a better view of the game, I have piled 3 plates full of all types of Meats, Breads, Cheeses and other fanciful Fare and 3 mugs of beer I say out Loud (between bites of meat and drinks of beer): Looks Like fun, HA, HA, I'm In. Besides the seal may be in the Cup thereby we must get the cup.
I Say Out loud after the 2 explosions: Tssk, Tssk, Tssk they need to add a we bit more powder and some shrapnel into their explosives - It took 2 Goblins to get the ball loose.
"Are you out of your mind??? Look at these people, they cheer for wanton destruction and carnage. You think life is a game? Are you really that suicidal? In battle there is glory. In War and in fair competition."
"But this....this is madness"
Out Loud I state: Quite yer belly achin boy war is Chaos, Madness, a large part Suicidal and you have to get practice in somewhere, Besides it looks like they are having a Blast down there, or two HA, HA, HA (I laugh at my witticism and continue eating).
Val: Perception Roll for watching the game Spot: 17 (1d20) + 1 (Mod) + 0 (no glasses Thorenhen has) = 18
"I beg to differ Kosan. War is strategy n' tactics, wielded like a fine rapier ter win the day and triumph. While some battles is chaotic and brutal as you say, the more such fights ye have, the greater the likelyhood that chance alone will determine the outcome."
I look around at those gathered near me. "I fer one be agreein' with Astinos, the risks be too high fer us ter enter this game. Especially since we dinnae know the rules nor do we function well enough as a coherent team ter remotely succeed at such a venture."
"We cannot use magic without trickery, and the majority o' our party would seem ter be reliant on magic Llvenoc. One solid blow from yon Ogres would put paid to our feline friends here"
Turning to Kosan in particular, I speak with a quiet determination, almost a warning in my voice "Reckless battle will cost this world dearly, mighty Kosan. We are fightin' a war here, not just a battle. While yer blood may cry for this competition and the need ter wreak carnage, cooler heads must direct the overall strategy. Tis such reckless fightin' as cost me clan its hold. Aye, and likely put our entire race in such dire straights as they now be in."
"We have a Goddess er save people, as our main priority methinks. Given how much this 'ere game is filin' peoples lives, I'm thinkin' it be the perfect opportunity ter be a distraction while we go an get her. Ifn' we remove teh goddess from their play, these folk cannae break the seal and we get a little bit more time to recapture it. We need ter win this war, not yon battle"
It was the most I had spoken in weeks, since leaving ThoronHen so long ago in fact. My throat ached a little from the effort and passion I had placed in the words, but my eyes burn with conviction.
Well, you still dont have any of your skills up on your character sheet; so cant apply any skills you might have to your perception roll.
game is in the last few minutes before halftime....what you do see
looks like a couple of the goblins have some straight edges; poinards or short swords up the back of their jersies; when there is a dog pile; some gobby pulls it out and stabs an ogre a few times and puts it back; nobody caught yet; seems the gobbies are excellent at screening the ref and manipulating the slower thinking ogres.
also; you see that the next teams to play will be Dark Elves "Athelmyraik Players" vs some team called "Crushing Despair" then next up will be some team called "The Taratian Rats" (you do know of the port city of Tarantis) playing "Black Ork Badaxes" if you know what I mean hehe.
Val: Perception Roll for watching the game Spot: 17 (1d20) + 1 (Mod) + 0 (no glasses Thorenhen has) = 18
" My pardon sire, but you could of course hire some "ringers" I believe they are called. Many are the paths to failure; few are the paths to victory. What is it that you seek a seal? I know much of such things"
says a voice from a darker than normal corner (you know realize) the voice is strong and cultured; with a slight hiss and slither to it.
the more you look; the less you see....maybe if the Puck does something some light hehe might be shed.
Puck:
hmm familiar smell and feel was blocked by the food, booze, roar of the crowd and massive energy in this place plus all the protective magics in here and the wizardess that came with you; but you are starting to feel there is fey magic; probably very strong; in the corner; but it is wierd; twisted and dark; inverted so as not to be sensed.
This is how I see things. This game is identical to war. It has its hero's and its villians. There is strategy if you take the time to study. There is also confusion and disarry. Catching your oponents unaware. You have people cheering the victor. What difference does it make if its in your capital city or the bleachers a few feet from you. There is glory and the agony of defeat. There is hope, and disappear. All these things are in war.
Timid generals never win wars. Its those who take calculated risks who sieze the day. I know we can win here. We can do this. There is an old saying amongest elfin kind. You can learn more about a person in an hour of play; than in a year of talk. We desperately need to learn to work together. Astinos still needs a cover to move around in this city anyway. No matter how you look at this it is a win for us.
We loose, and don't get the trophy. We have lost nothing. Then we work on the next plan. We win... Then we are already a step ahead. If Kemnebi doesn't want to play ball then he can sit in the crowd and support us as well. We can name our team the Ravens after Kalona. She can be our Mascot! She can fly down and intercept the ball for us when its thrown. Or distract a defender to make him miss a tackle.
Why else do you think the Greek God of Games, and Law came down to arbitrate for us at the Oracles Astinos? I believe it is for this very moment. Besides if my cousin is here, and is safeguarding the seal. She can spot me easier on the field than in the stands. I Will keep the promise that she made. My only question is are you all with me or not? I will join this competition alone if I have to. Who are you? and what do you know of such things? Hearing the hiss in your voice. I would also like to see the face of who is speaking to us.
"I beg to differ Kosan. War is strategy n' tactics, wielded like a fine rapier ter win the day and triumph. While some battles is chaotic and brutal as you say, the more such fights ye have, the greater the likely hood that chance alone will determine the outcome."
I look around at those gathered near me. "I fer one be agreein' with Astinos, the risks be too high fer us ter enter this game. Especially since we dinnae know the rules nor do we function well enough as a coherent team ter remotely succeed at such a venture."
"We cannot use magic without trickery, ...
Turning to Kosan in particular, I speak with a quiet determination, almost a warning in my voice "Reckless battle will cost this world dearly, mighty Kosan. We are fightin' a war here, not just a battle. While yer blood may cry for this competition and the need ter wreak carnage, cooler heads must direct the overall strategy. Tis such reckless fightin' as cost me clan its hold. Aye, and likely put our entire race in such dire straights as they now be in."
"We have a Goddess er save people, as our main priority methinks. Given how much this 'ere game is filin' peoples lives, I'm thinkin' it be the perfect opportunity ter be a distraction while we go an get her. Ifn' we remove the goddess from their play, these folk cannae break the seal and we get a little bit more time to recapture it. We need ter win this war, not yon battle"
It was the most I had spoken in weeks, ...
Yer Argument be sound bout Tactics & strategies yet ye fail to see the whole scope of the battle field. That at times yer fine rapier will be lost or broken and ye will need to pick up a jagged stick and reenter battle. Or your plans will be countered and ye be routed to an unsavory site where you must regroup, redistribute troops, and reengage the enemy with different tactics.
Ye say we need to free the goddess and retrieve the Seal and we need a distraction. I say our distraction lies in front of us. We came into this evil necropolis and were seen. We have a holy paladin and yer self, in a den of evil antiquity, who radiate Good as my brother did when he was cast into the abyss as a 100 foot bonfire burns in the darkness. So I say unto ye where better to hide then were we are seen - in the arena. From what I can see of yon goblins tis not hard to slip in or fer that matter slip out of this game and not be given a second thought. So what better diversion then to be in the arena, slip out of the game free the goddess and if need be return to the game and none could question us.
Also we have no answers to our questions about how the Goddess is being held and need to await Ronin and his network to see how we can get to her. Mean while if the seal is in yon trophy we would be that much closer to possibly retrieving it, avenging the deeprock clan and getting the seal re-hidden to gain an advantage fer our side in the war.
It twould also be far easier to walk around town and gather information as heroes then as goodly beings in the den of evil.
Look at Llvenoc, have ye ever seen him so excited, so eager. How can we refuse him this? Will ye reveal yeself to me?
" My pardon sire, but you could of course hire some "ringers" I believe they are called. Many are the paths to failure; few are the paths to victory. What is it that you seek a seal? I know much of such things"
says a voice from a darker than normal corner (you know realize) the voice is strong and cultured; with a slight hiss and slither to it.
Upon hearing the hissing voice I draw my Hammer/Axe (Hammer side ready), Shield, and get between the party and the dark corner - except Grimbol who just walked in front of me.
Move 20
Quick Draw Feat
Intimidate: 14 (1d20) + 12 (Abil Mod/Ranks) = 26
I say out loud: What foul magic be this I thought this box was warded. Ye be friend or Foe, tell me quickly lest I decide fer ye.
Hold Kosan, he could of attacked us at any time if that was the intention.
<little laughter>
three pipsqueek voices say very quietly: "sure"
Gyrmbol; roll a d6 and a d20 please.
Look at Llvenoc, have ye ever seen him so excited, so eager. How can we refuse him this? Will ye reveal yeself to me?
the voice says in the cultured voice:
Like I fear a pathetic dwarf like yourself; your brother might be a challenge; but you are like a bug under my foot; be rude and I shall extinguish thee.
Fight me and you will loose, for I am highly placed in the Hand; and Ronin does take my council as I am the emissary of the Dark Forest and I will take no guff from the like of any of yea; especially you cats; for I will plant you on the Table of Binding myself if yea cross me to preserve the faith and trust of me fey companions.