Stormcrow's Return of the Runelords

Game Master stormcrow27

I'll get things going tomorrow. I had three fillings done today and I can't feel right of side of my face.

That is less than fun. Hope you feel better soon

Ouch, I recommend booze if your pick of painkillers allows it.

We'll be ready to go tomorrow now that my filling pain is done and other things are cleared from my schedule. I apologize for the delay since I want to get this campaign started and not keep any of you waiting.

That's fine. I'd rather wait till you're in a good place to start strong =)

We have plenty of amusing dumb banter in the gameplay thread :)

No worries, stormcrow27; will have to second what both Grandfather Mossbeard and Eric de St. Cyr have posted earlier today. :)

Roderic's Cove is one of many small settlements nestled inside the environs of Varisia. Founded 80 years ago by Ser Roderic of Magnimar, the small town has expanded even after the death of its founder by pirates ten years later. Roderic's Cove managed to resist the influence of that wretched hive of scum and villainy, Riddleport for another 10 years, but alas, the city fell to the pirate scourge 20 years ago. It now serves as a way stop for merchants too afraid to sell their wares in Riddleport, an entrance into the Chavali River, or another small town waiting for adventure.

Recently, the town has seen some excitement between the forces of two gangs, the Horned Fangs and the Order of Resplendence. During one night in the Circle Market, the two gangs fought for control. Supposedly, during the battle, one of the members of the Order drew a rapier and unleashed a ghostly assault of monsters and strange creatures after she struck down one of the Horned Fangs. The town has been abuzz with gossip, worry, and perhaps, even profit as a looming sense of confrontation amongst the normally peaceful environs of Roderic's Cove. However, the people of Roderic's Cove continue to endure, awaiting the next potential eruption of violence.

Circle Market Day is coming up. Does the party wish to do anything before Market Day starts?

descriptive mode fine? Eric tries to be a good citizen, as he is pretty much done with rabble rousing, and the Authorities in Roderics Cov yet have to mistreat him, which is really unusual and thus notable for Eric.

Always concerned with the plight of the common people, and admiddetly also looking for an in with the authorities, Eric would ask Koshon if, as a representative of the office of the port governor, he would appreciate having fairly strong (STR 18) considerably armed (I do lug 2 martials weapons and then some) fellow with him as he makes his rounds around town to reassure the locals or investigate the recent disturbance.

While this would , in Erics estimation, hardly stop further nefarious activities, the office of the port governeour showing the flag at obvious points of interest with new muscle could well dissuade further confrontations, reassure the population, or persuade the 2 bands to move there "non verbal agreements" to areas with minimal civilian involvement. It would also normalize him lugging his weapons around town.
Are there restrictions for lugging around weaponry?

If Koshon aggrees to patrolling with Eric, Eric would publicaly make use of mending to fix damages from the brawl, presumably on market stalls and such.

Eric is yet untrained in Diplomacy (I plan to include it in versatile performance, but dont have it yet), but has reasonable Cha and would aid Koshon in any attempt to gather information.

Eric is awaiting Koshons lead in the manner.
He would accept but care little a nominal symbolic pay, but is mostly interested in simply improving his standing in town given that he is a strange foreigner with a stranger accent, wielding unusual weaponry.
And he knows how this would go down in fairly xenophobic Galt. Koshons relatively unusual natures admittedly also triggers Erics curiousity, and simply talking politely with extraplanars is frequently a good way to gain information about them.

For the most part, Thurin kept his head down. If he had to describe Roderic's Cover in a single word it would be "overwhelming." The sheer amount of noise was deafening. The slaves-, no, the people, were always talking. Laughing. Running about doing this and that with no rhyme or reason. It was enough to make him feel panicked. Yes, they worked, but they did so (as far as he could tell) when they wanted and did as poor a job as they could get away with.

With some coin left, he spent his time in the tavern of all places, his hood up to hide his skin from prying eyes. But he knew that his coin would not last forever. He wondered what he could do to earn some coin? Being idle did not suit him, for it still made him feel anxious to have time on his hands that was not being spent. So with market day coming up, he discreetly tried to find work, using his skills as a smith.

Craft weapon to earn coin before market day?: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14

Lorel uses her savings to buy food and lodging, since she can't go home looking like this. Each day, she tries to see Gabby, her wife, and convince her that Lorel is Scott. She's had no success. At other times, she wanders aimlessly around town, or talks to Audrahni. Each day, she feels compelled to bind a spirit.

Binding check for the day with Cave mother: Cha +4, +2 AL, +0 1/2 level, +2 female totem vs DC 15 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10 Failure

Lorel's hand and face are wrinkled, as with age, She easily loses her patience, and must answer questions with other questions.

descriptive mode fine? Eric tries to be a good citizen, as he is pretty much done with rabble rousing, and the Authorities in Roderics Cov yet have to mistreat him, which is really unusual and thus notable for Eric.

Always concerned with the plight of the common people, and admiddetly also looking for an in with the authorities, Eric would ask Koshon if, as a representative of the office of the port governor, he would appreciate having fairly strong (STR 18) considerably armed (I do lug 2 martials weapons and then some) fellow with him as he makes his rounds around town to reassure the locals or investigate the recent disturbance.

While this would , in Erics estimation, hardly stop further nefarious activities, the office of the port governeour showing the flag at obvious points of interest with new muscle could well dissuade further confrontations, reassure the population, or persuade the 2 bands to move there "non verbal agreements" to areas with minimal civilian involvement. It would also normalize him lugging his weapons around town.
Are there restrictions for lugging around weaponry?

If Koshon aggrees to patrolling with Eric, Eric would publicaly make use of mending to fix damages from the brawl, presumably on market stalls and such.

Eric is yet untrained in Diplomacy (I plan to include it in versatile performance, but dont have it yet), but has reasonable Cha and would aid Koshon in any attempt to gather information.

Eric is awaiting Koshons lead in the manner.
He would accept but care little a nominal symbolic pay, but is mostly interested in simply improving his standing in town given that he is a strange foreigner with a stranger accent, wielding unusual weaponry.
And he knows how this would go down in fairly xenophobic Galt. Koshons relatively unusual natures admittedly also triggers Erics curiousity, and simply talking politely with extraplanars is frequently a good way to gain information about them.

[spoiler=Aid another diplomacy for gathering...

No, there isn't any penalty for lugging around weaponry or armor in town, especially since it's a pirate haven. Foreigners are pretty common here, even ones from Galt or other parts east of Varisia. Varisia is also pretty cosmopolitan, as they have the magical schools that specialize in conjuration/summoning in Korvosa along with the ancient remnants of the Thassilonian Empire throughout the land.

For the most part, Thurin kept his head down. If he had to describe Roderic's Cover in a single word it would be "overwhelming." The sheer amount of noise was deafening. The slaves-, no, the people, were always talking. Laughing. Running about doing this and that with no rhyme or reason. It was enough to make him feel panicked. Yes, they worked, but they did so (as far as he could tell) when they wanted and did as poor a job as they could get away with.

With some coin left, he spent his time in the tavern of all places, his hood up to hide his skin from prying eyes. But he knew that his coin would not last forever. He wondered what he could do to earn some coin? Being idle did not suit him, for it still made him feel anxious to have time on his hands that was not being spent. So with market day coming up, he discreetly tried to find work, using his skills as a smith.

[dice=Craft weapon to earn coin before market day?]1d20+5

Thurin makes 7 gp after his work on the forge.

Lorel uses her savings to buy food and lodging, since she can't go home looking like this. Each day, she tries to see Gabby, her wife, and convince her that Lorel is Scott. She's had no success. At other times, she wanders aimlessly around town, or talks to Audrahni. Each day, she feels compelled to bind a spirit.

Binding check for the day with Cave mother: Cha +4, +2 AL, +0 1/2 level, +2 female totem vs DC 15 1d20+8 Failure

Lorel's hand and face are wrinkled, as with age, She easily loses her patience, and must answer questions with other questions.

Noted.

If the whole "aide to Koshon" thing doesnt work out,

Eric frequents some bars and performs to earn some cash.

perform sing: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (7) + 6 = 13 which is not terrible, but far from his best performances.

Recently, the town has seen some excitement between the forces of two gangs, the Horned Fangs and the Order of Resplendence. During one night in the Circle Market, the two gangs fought for control. Supposedly, during the battle, one of the members of the Order drew a rapier and unleashed a ghostly assault of monsters and strange creatures after she struck down one of the Horned Fangs. The town has been abuzz with gossip, worry, and perhaps, even profit as a looming sense of confrontation amongst the normally peaceful environs of Roderic's Cove. However, the people of Roderic's Cove continue to endure, awaiting the next potential eruption of violence.

Circle Market Day is coming up. Does the party wish to do anything before Market Day starts?

By any chance, would either Desil Marphan or Audrahni know of [or have any personal opinions about] both or either of these gangs, the Fangs and the Order? (especially since Morelda's lacking in Know:Local training} ;p]

Also, since I made it part of Morelda's backstory that she was interested in shopping at the Circle Market while she was in town, would it be possible that she might have been an eyewitness in the fight [a possible tangential connection to Eric and/or Koshon as being known to the local guards as an eyewitness]? If so, what did she witness as a non-attacking/interfering bystander who just had Mage Armor/Fastidiousness/Prestidigitation/Read Magic memorized in place of Sleep/Entangling Ectoplasm/Acid Splash/Crystal Light? As a possible aside, that ghostly summons from the Order possibly would've helped to inspire her own personal research in Entangling Ectoplasm if she was actually an eyewitness to the fight.

PS. While I initially rolled a 1 for the Circle Market Bargain thing, mebbe it was shopping for the discounted Prismatic Crystal [netting a 3 gold piece savings- in lieu of making a "day job roll", if permitted to do so] that would have allowed Morelda to be in the right place at the right time to be an eyewitness to that Circle Market gang-fight.

PPS. Should we all, as a group, make a 1d20 roll for the upcoming Circle Market thingy too? ;)

The last couple days have been terrible for anyone working in the port-governor's office. The town has been in an uproar concerning the gang attack, and many are rightfully looking to the port-goernor's office for answers. When out in public, Koshon, gregori aide to Captain Larenza Thort, has used his calming, diplomatic manner to keep the uproar to incessant whispers. Oddly, enough Mr. Eric de St. Cyr, a self-professed archaelogist, has made himself available to assist in town patrols. Koshon feels Mr. St. Cyr's intentions are for the betterment of the town, but also tinged with mortal self-interest. Still, it is difficult to turn away help during a crisis.

Grandfather Mossbeard sits on a small stone bench near the beach, looking out over the sea. As the sunlight reflects off the surface of the water, he too reflects on the town. It was not so long ago that Roderic's Cove did not even exist. Mossbeard sighs heavily and shakes his head. What a shame it was that the troubles of the big cities were finding their way to the little town. Coastal towns were the best for gathering stories, but large cities were too busy - and far too crowded- for the Firbolg, never mind his gigantic reptilian companion. Roderic's Cove had been his favorite human settlement for three decades. Large enough to attract exotic visitors from overseas, but not so crowded as Riddleport and Magnimar. Was it time for Mossbeard to find a new human settlement to frequent, or would that be giving up on the good people of the town too soon? Word of the gang rivalry and the deaths caused by their fighting had reached him the same as it had reached everyone else and it filled his heart with sorrow.

Has the skald been doin any skalding these days? Mossbeard is always ready to hear a good story.

Incidentally, I will have a remote zoom Karaoke office party in about 2 minutes, and fully intend to turn this into a gameplay post. Buckle up this should get dumb and hilarious :)

Lorel doesn't care much about the gang fighting in Roderic's Cove. It doesn't compare to her problems. It's bad, certainly, but she's focused more on her new powers. She decides to try learning more about the spirits she can bind. She spends eight hours researching the ceremony to summon Aza’zati.

Knowledge Arcane +11 vs DC 26 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (19) + 11 = 30

Eric does some singing and Skalding when he is not folloing Koshon around.
I already rolled, pretty badly, for that but here are the lyrics slightly adjusted to pirate life

Having been caught in the rather unfortunate position of being one of several eyewitnesses to the unpleasant recent occurrence of internecine warfare among both groups of the local gangs here in Roderic's Cove, Morelda Valerique certainly got an earful of admonishment from both Desil and Audrahni about her involvement in such an unhealthy and unseemly activity.

Now, to be fair, for Desil's part- much of his chagrin was mostly centered upon Morelda's Father taking an unauthorized leave of absence from his usual supervision to attend a play-reading over in Ustalav. In Audrahni's case, there was some palpable relief once the Elven Ashava-Worshipper found out that Morelda was able to stay mostly out of harms way [an advisable stance given that the Young Varisian Wizard had only memorized some defensive or non-offensive spells on that very day!].

Morelda, for the most part, was able to come out of that infamous day relatively unscathed and now made all too aware of the existence of both gangs that she hadn't been made aware of before, as well. Yet, it still proved to be quite a fruitful venture for the Varisian Twilight Academy member and it wasn't just because of her [discounted at 3 less gp?] purchase of the Prismatic Crystal from the Marketplace right before all the violence happened to materialized.

No, it was the actions of one Gang-member in particular, the one that summoned all the ghostly apparitions- of all people! that helped to inspire Morelda's studies into manipulating the ethereal plane that resulted in her latest spell-work- one that can draw forth elements of ectoplasm from that very plane to help entrap those unfortunate enough to get caught within it's glistening, sticky surface. Best of all, it had naught to do with Necromancy so Desil should have no cause to worry if Morelda was to somehow deploy her latest spell acquisition out in the field, as it were. It was highly fortunate that as a novice spellcaster, the potential damage could be expected to be kept at a minimum.

Yeah, went ahead with using some of the stuff that I queried about earlier since it seemed to make the most sense in making the most use off of. I think I can dial it back if there's a need to, though. :)

Having been caught in the rather unfortunate position of being one of several eyewitnesses to the unpleasant recent occurrence of internecine warfare among both groups of the local gangs here in Roderic's Cove, Morelda Valerique certainly got an earful of admonishment from both Desil and Audrahni about her involvement in such an unhealthy and unseemly activity.

Now, to be fair, for Desil's part- much of his chagrin was mostly centered upon Morelda's Father taking an unauthorized leave of absence from his usual supervision to attend a play-reading over in Ustalav. In Audrahni's case, there was some palpable relief once the Elven Ashava-Worshipper found out that Morelda was able to stay mostly out of harms way [an advisable stance given that the Young Varisian Wizard had only memorized some defensive or non-offensive spells on that very day!].

Morelda, for the most part, was able to come out of that infamous day relatively unscathed and now made all too aware of the existence of both gangs that she hadn't been made aware of before, as well. Yet, it still proved to be quite a fruitful venture for the Varisian Twilight Academy member and it wasn't just because of her [discounted at 3 less gp?] purchase of the Prismatic Crystal from the Marketplace right before all the violence happened to materialized.

No, it was the actions of one Gang-member in particular, the one that summoned all the ghostly apparitions- of all people! that helped to inspire Morelda's studies into manipulating the ethereal plane that resulted in her latest spell-work- one that can draw forth elements of ectoplasm from that very plane to help entrap those unfortunate enough to get caught within it's glistening, sticky surface. Best of all, it had naught to do with Necromancy so Desil should have no cause to worry if Morelda was to somehow deploy her latest spell acquisition out in the field, as it were. It was highly fortunate that as a novice spellcaster, the potential damage could be expected to be kept at a minimum....

Audrani and Devril indeed give Morelda an earful, since the source of the ghostly phenomenon is known to have slain everyone who witnessed it for to long. As to the nature of what the source is or which, if any gang member summoned the deadly phenomenon, that is still very much unknown. Rapiers are popular weapons amongst Varisian natives.

The last couple days have been terrible for anyone working in the port-governor's office. The town has been in an uproar concerning the gang attack, and many are rightfully looking to the port-goernor's office for answers. When out in public, Koshon, gregori aide to Captain Larenza Thort, has used his calming, diplomatic manner to keep the uproar to incessant whispers. Oddly, enough Mr. Eric de St. Cyr, a self-professed archaelogist, has made himself available to assist in town patrols. Koshon feels Mr. St. Cyr's intentions are for the betterment of the town, but also tinged with mortal self-interest. Still, it is difficult to turn away help during a crisis.

Koshon and Eric's patrols turn up worry, some drunkenness, and low appreciation for the skald's skills at composing naval sea shanties for pirate crews. Some town patrons yell out "Sing Freebird, or Southern Cross!" "What's that trash, we want the Wellerman!" "Hey, this guy isn't singing Come Sail Away! Where's them Styxian bards!"

Grandfather Mossbeard sits on a small stone bench near the beach, looking out over the sea. As the sunlight reflects off the surface of the water, he too reflects on the town. It was not so long ago that Roderic's Cove did not even exist. Mossbeard sighs heavily and shakes his head. What a shame it was that the troubles of the big cities were finding their way to the little town. Coastal towns were the best for gathering stories, but large cities were too busy - and far too crowded- for the Firbolg, never mind his gigantic reptilian companion. Roderic's Cove had been his favorite human settlement for three decades. Large enough to attract exotic visitors from overseas, but not so crowded as Riddleport and Magnimar. Was it time for Mossbeard to find a new human settlement to frequent, or would that be giving up on the good people of the town too soon? Word of the gang rivalry and the deaths caused by their fighting had reached him the same as it had reached everyone else and it filled his heart with sorrow.

Has the skald been doin any skalding these days? Mossbeard is always ready to hear a good story.

During Mossbeard's ruminations, he notices an officer of the Portmaster general and a golden-haired singer patrolling the small city. The singer seems to be attempting to create a marching or sailing ballad of sorts of working for the Chelish navy, but the town's art critics seem to treat it rather harshly.

Lorel doesn't care much about the gang fighting in Roderic's Cove. It doesn't compare to her problems. It's bad, certainly, but she's focused more on her new powers. She decides to try learning more about the spirits she can bind. She spends eight hours researching the ceremony to summon Aza’zati.

Knowledge Arcane +11 vs DC 26 1d20+11

Lorel's efforts to understand both Aza'zati' sign and ceremony. It seems to involve mixing up leaves, roots, and a vial of some weak acid, swirling them around in a circular pattern, and then drinking it while drawing the sign.

As the next day arises, the town begins to prepare for the normalcy of the Circle Market day. Vendors, local craftsman, and traveling merchants arrive and set up stands. What wonders will the group discover upon entering the market?

Lorel enters the market, but is too heartbroken to do much shopping. She passes from stall to stall, not really looking at the items. She's too concerned about her wife and marriage.

Eric keeps his singing somewhat limited, strolls around the market and wonders whats going to happen next. His very limited cashfound would not allow much shopping anyway.

The gregori aide, having performed his duties earlier, dedided to walk the Circle Market. Koshon hopes to project a positive image of order despite the recent gang fights.

Despite getting an earful about the dangers posed by that very notorious Rapier-wielding Gang-member of the Order of Resplendence, Morelda- in a fit of rebellious pique against both of the town locals- sought to tempt fate once more as she ventured forth back to the Circle Market in the search for bargains to be had.

No doubt, her overconfident show of bravado was undoubtedly bolstered by the fact that she had specifically made sure to memorize spells that could be used in a more combative manner than normal- namely that of memorizing Sleep and Entangling Ectoplasm as her 1st level spells and Acid Splash and Crystal Light (in addition to Detect Magic) for her Cantrips; As to something like Mage Armor, the young member of the Twilight Academy School of the Arcane decided to put her trust into her Bonded Weapon's ability to utilize such a spell in a pinch.

Despite her attempts at keeping a wary eye out for the Rapier-wielder Gangster, the younger Valerique spell-caster would soon find herself immersed in the goings-on at the Circle Market- ever alert for that unexpected bargain to come up.

Circle Market Bargain watch, go: 1d20 ⇒ 1.

Perception, if it will be required: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 = 5.

Needless to say, Morelda soon became oblivious to anything not involving her latest shopping trip to the Circle Market. ;p

Thurin walked the marketplace, silently judging all within it. The loud, raucous people who did not know what they needed and who chased what they wanted. The inferior goods that served no purpose. The doodads and thingamabobs and whatchamacallits! So much shiny junk! He had begun to see the purpose of enjoying life and taking pride in one’s craft. But what pride was there in mass produced junk? Still. There was one saving grace. The food! At least that made the trip worthwhile.

The vendors gather in the Circle, while shoppers begin to file in for potential bargains and rare finds. Is anyone else going to do any shopping?

Koshon peruses the weapon vendors looking for good two-handed weapons.
Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (17) + 9 = 26

Eric looks to see if he can find any breastplates to longingly stare at on account of his lack of coin.

Perception: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (19) + 3 = 22

Lorel needs a light crossbow, but can't afford one. She looks anyway, it gives her something to do.

Perception: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (5) + 0 = 5

Ok,everyone roll a d20 and we'll see what bargain you find on the market.

BARGAINS!!!: 1d20 ⇒ 9

Bargain hunting: 1d20 ⇒ 3

Bargains: 1d20 ⇒ 12

Bargain: 1d20 ⇒ 16

Bargains: 1d20 ⇒ 12

Fantasy consumerism for the win!

Results
Koshon: You can purchase any alchemical item from Ulimate Equipment at 10% of the normal price

Thurin: You can purchase any adventurer's gear, clothing, food or drink item, or trade good from Ultimate Equipment at 10% of the normal price

Morelda: You can also purchase any adventurer's gear, clothing, food or drink item at 10% of the normal price from Ultimate Equipment.

Erik: You can also pick up any alchemical item from Ultimate Equipment at 10% the normal price

Mossbeard: You can find any weapon from Ultimate Equipment at 10% the normal price

Lorel: Much like Koshon and Erik, you to find any one alchemical item you like from Ultimate Equipment at 10% of the price

Koshon walks the stalls of the Circle Market, again stymied by the price of a greatsword these days. But one particular vendor was selling alchemist's kindness at a discount! The gregori had heard amazing things about this salt-based concoction, and decided to pick some up. A very minor financial victory, but a victory all-the-same.

Lorel makes an incredible find. A vial of antitoxin for just 5 gp! Unable to pass on such savings, she buys the vial. She counts out the number of days of food she's giving up by making a purchase, but her adventuring instinct tells her to be prepared.

Eric finds some icecap ale. Consuming this, and then singing would make his strength and constitution equal to that of a Bloodrager (+2 alchemical bonus to STR and Con for 1 minute) the after affects a 1 hour of lessened coordination and strength, as well as short time memory loss, but he is quite familar with the concotion from his time in Galt.

Given what he can do while under effect of this brew, the memory loss is perhaps for the best, Eric remembers with a slight shudder.
-4 GP, 3 Gold left.

At length, Thurin stopped at a stall where backpacks were being sold. He did so, because the merchant there stated that they were 0f dwarven-make, which struck him as odd as they were leather and he had thought that his long-lost cousins were most well known for stone and steel. looking it over, he found one that had numerous pockets, hooks for attaching items such as canteens or a blanket and padded bands to distribute weight. It had no decoration on it that could be seen, but the quality was excellent. Slowly and methodically, the duergar talked the price down, until he managed to make an arrangement which matched his current financial situation.

5 gold, When wearing a masterwork backpack, treat your Strength score as +1 higher than normal when calculating your carrying capacity.

As the day goes on, old Possum Coots starts serving up his "possum " punch nearby the east side of the market, near the old well. Some people start to gather and drink more and more as the day goes on. Near the end of the afternoon, one group seems to be staying together and longer then normal...

All players, please roll Sense Motive and Perception checks.

Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (1) + 9 = 10 :(

perception: 1d20 ⇒ 19
sense motive: 1d20 ⇒ 16