GM Wicked Treesa's page

@Vormog
One is on the list. (#1) The other (#2) is not. #2 starts with, "Well, You're not Captain Eddarly, and" #1 silences him with a hard punch to the back of his head. He drops like a puppet. "He's a wimp and was worried that you're going to be a hard ass and start some real discipline here. Personally, I'd love to see some changes. Turn some of these wimps into real soldier!" #1 is CG. #2 is Neutral. BTW, the punch looked trained. #1 might be a trained martial artist or brawler.... with sneak attack.

????: 1d20 ⇒ 19
@Rendylyn
Barnabus smiles and finishes his mug, stands and looks down at the little dwarf maiden through blurry eyes. "Yesh. But. Keg too heavy. Girl! Another mug. Mugs. But I need to. Yesh. I. Right back." He stumbles out to the out house again.

Returning he staggers across the room, stopping to look down at 'Lyn. "Who are you? Little girl..." He flops onto his chair and picks up his mug. Treesa is backing from the table. A bucket has been placed beside Barnabus's chair. It has a curious/bad smell. Barnabus wrinkles his brow. "Next!" He raises his mug to his face and starts to chug it. Some of the ale slops out on his beard and down the front of his armor. He drains about a quarter of the mug before setting it down. He grins, waiting. He watches as Rendylyn picks up her mug, matching him, then his eyes roll back and he slides out of the chair, onto the floor.

Treesa returns to the table, glancing to the other men. "Guys, take him to his room. And the bucket. He'll need it when he wakes up. Remember, face down so he doesn't drown himself." As the men gather the engineer and his equipment, they stare at the little dwarf lady with confusion. But they do haul him away.... You notice some of them are also a bit wobbly. Had Treesa been serving them too?

Once they are gone Treesa turns to Rendylyn, handing a small paper packet to her. "Complements of the local alchemist. He's not totally useless. Take a glass of water to your room. Mix this in it when you wake. Hold your nose and force yourself to drink it fast. Then nap a little bit longer. You'll be feeling fine and his head won't fit in that bucket...."
Treesa seems to have gotten a bit meaner while she is working here.... Her smile is almost as wicked as Rendylyn's!

@Vormog
Sounds good. Yes, the 'tour' drags a bit. The men do not appear very organized or motivated. You probably grind your teeth some to keep from biting the non-disciplined heads off. You do notice two men that are watching you. They also seem to be annoyed with how things are going. Do you do anything?

@Rendylyn
The ale does seem rather strong. One of these mugs would probably be more than you would want to drink normally. By the time the first one is empty, (almost an hour has passed) Barnabus has a 'nice' smile on his face. He stands up. "Gotta ree... shycle the ale. Get the neksht mugs ready!" He stumbles over to the door to the outhouse. It takes him almost two minutes before he returns. Treesa carries the next two mugs to the table and gives you a wicked grin. As Barnabus returns she nods to him. "Another mug of the good stuff for you sir. Should I ready a third round?" He leers at her and pauses. "Ashk me when theshe are getting emty. Don't wan a make da lass sick on me ale. She's a lil thing..." He lifts his mug to Rendylyn and grins. "Next!" Then he brings his mug to his face and takes a long drink, possibly a third of the mug.

You notice that the taste is different, obviously not as strong but it looks the same.

Ditto what she said!

@Rendylyn
Barnabus roars with laughter at Rendylyn's comments. "Aye lass. We'll see about that. And if your capacity proves to your talk, maybe I'll start challenging the ladies to drink with me then." He turns and smiles at the closest bar girl. "Bring tankards of dwarvish ale. Two to start but be ready with more. Plenty more! And make it the good stuff. My personal keg. My honor has been questioned!"

You notice a startled expression on Treesa's face, but she nods at you. Apparently she was watching and saw you cast the spell? It takes about a minute before she returns with two large mugs, easily more that a quart of an almost black ale in them.

You're pretty sure Barnabus has consumed two regular mugs of the normal beer.... He lifts the tankard to his lips and downs about a pint before setting it down and taking a breath. "Now that's a good dwarven ale! Drink up lass. But if it's too strong for you perhaps other arrangements could be made? I could rent a room for the night!"

By the look on his face you think he's just being insulting this time. After all, you already turned him down on that one! Sniffing/sipping the stout, it is good. A strong, dark ale flavor, smooth to make drinking it easier and perhaps more dangerous. It also tastes strong. You're fairly certain that normally two of these mugs drank fast would make you sick. Drank slow they might be enough to make you pass out.

@Rendylyn
Barnabus stares at you for a while before answering. "Well, I don't usually accept a challenge from the sweeter sex. But since you want it so much, OK. But my not drinking won't help me cut faster. I might even slow me down. Cutting the gems is precision work. I won't do it if I'm tired from working, or if my hand is shaking 'cause I'm wanting a drink. But I'll accept your challenge and I'll get the gems done when I can."

@Rayse
You get cheers from the men. Obviously lots of them want to see the show.

@All. Tehs reply to Rendylyn
"Yes Mistress. I can get Mama Guisseppe to accept me. However, I've got some information that might be really important. Teryth Caldwin went out to the golem last night. I heard him fighting and he came back badly injured. I checked and the ladder down to it was destroyed. It was active and smashing things. I think he's totally lost control of it. Maybe we could do something with it? Release it and direct it somewhere? The alchemy stuff down there should point at him if they follow the tracks."

I'm going to wait a little for Tehs. If I don't hear from him before then I'll post Saturday evening.

@Rayse
You find the "standing orders" to be oddly lacking. Your men are guards throughout the fortress and the town. Two to four are posted at various locations. If the alarm bells go off, any of the halberders are to move to the gatehouse in case any of the northern enemies come through the defenses. Everyone is certain that will never happen! There are extra halberds, and other weapons at the Armory. (Slide 4, room 3) You are also told of the 200 quivers of 20 arrows stored in the third level of the tower. (Slide 6, room 12)
There are no instructions concerning evacuation of the town or farms.
Also, Captain Barhold's men are also guards around the fort. In an attack they are to gather in the main hallway. (slide 4, room 8)

@Vormog
Most of the men are quite animated/happy about the planned entertainment. They respond to your words as if they are used to speaking with their leader as 'a friend'. You remember hearing that Captain Eddarly wasn't known for tight discipline. The men are archers and engineers trained with the siege weapons. The are quite excited to have a chance to fire the trebuchet when the dwarves finally finish their work on it. Unfortunately they haven't a clue when that will be....
If interested they take you on the grand tour, showing where the men are assigned during an assault on the fort. The trebuchet is one the roof of the Keep. (Slide 6) The third level of the tower where the arrows were stored, there are also arrow slits in every direction. The "bridge of death" and gatehouse roof (slide 5 #10 & 11) where the archers can target any on the bridge as well as target the approaching enemies with arrows, ballistas, and rock droppers. They also control the drawbridge and the portcullis. The signal horn is also here to warn of an approach and summon the men. Finally the storage rooms at the gatehouse have arrow slits. (Slide 4 rooms 16 a&b)

@Rendylyn
The service that Father Donnagin will be preaching at is 1 hour past sun up on day 7.

Barnabus pours the bag on a flat surface, and looks at the onyx with a bit of disappointment clearly showing on his face. "I can cut this, but it's low quality stone. See the lines in the stone, and the sharp edges? It looks like shattered onyx plating rather than proper mined gemstones. At least half of it is.... Well, I'll return the dross with what stones of value I can cut for you." He continues picking through the stone. He picks a few, setting them aside. "These can get good stone, faceted or round depending on what cut you desire." Having reviewed the onyx he sweeps them back into the bag. "I have duties at the fortress, maintenance of the equipment and working on the new trebuchet. But, I'm sure I can finish this before the end of market week. I'll return all of the shards of course. This should get you 10 good stones. But, do you want them carved with facets, or smooth and round? I don't do jewelry but I understand that either may be desired."

Good point and thank you for mentioning it. Please avoid descriptions of such events. I'd add any complete non-combatants to that, such as crippled, elderly, etc. Simply count them as defeated without resisting.

@Rendylyn:
Your spell responds with the local gossip. You hear a lot of speculation about what will happen to Captain Mott. Nobody seems upset about "the old grump" possibly being executed, but many women are upset about "his beautiful wife and that very handsome Captain Eddarly being viciously murdered"....
You hear more gossip about Lord Havelyn. "He must be guilty of something truly horrible. He's always so dour and unhappy, and now his command is falling apart!"
And about Ye Merry Men: "I hear that they have an advance group that will arrive tomorrow. A construction group that will set up the stages in the market, and at the fortress. I hear they pay well for extra men that can work hard. I'd like my husband to hire with them but the lazy git wouldn't last a day!"
Last: "I hear that Mama Guisseppe has started work on her big stew pot already. Is she going to deliver this week's batch early so it doesn't interfere with the show? You know the men love her cooking!"

Searching out the local farmers is easy. There are several farming families in the local area. None of them have any horses to sell but they are all polite, especially with that diplomacy roll. Most are generational families, with 3-5 generations living in the houses central to the individual farm. That said, they are spread out quite a bit. You doubt anyone on one farm would hear someone screaming at full volume inside any of the farm houses.... There are a couple 'easy' targets about a two hour walk, or ~45 minute ride horseback from the city that are smaller families. 3 generations. The grands are still working, only one set of their children on the farm raising their next generation. Grandchildren still fairly young. (4-12)

Last, both funerals are scheduled today. The funeral for Mrs. Mott is first, at noon. The grave digger will have time to close her grave before the service for Captain Eddarly starts. Scheduled at 4 PM. Father Donnagin will preside over both.

@Rayse and Vormog:
Training hard to show that you're taking the assignment seriously, plus checking on Captain Varning's schedule? Anything else?

@Tehs: ??

Received reply from GMT. Not coming back at this time. RL issues. Maybe later. I replied that he could email at any time and we'd work him back in.

A few seconds pass, then additional writing appears on the parchment. The script is clearly written, also appearing to be in blood. "Welcome to my Nessian Knot Tehs. Succeed and you will be more powerful than your ancestors!" Cardinal Thorn's seal appears after the addition.

Good to go!

PM sent to Therenger. Kid could come with the entertainers....

Are we ready to start Day 4? The market will be setting up on Day 6 with the Performance starting there on Day 7.

@Tehs
The portcullis is raised at least twice per week, whenever Captain Varning and a half dozen of his men ride out to 'scout' the area. They occasionally return with a few heads. But usually not. Many of the men think they are just riding around the North having fun....

No reply from Posh.

@Vormog
Torture Room. Slide 6. Room #4 on Keep level 2. Wow! I had the text messed up on that slide! You and Rayse walked right by it on your way up to level 4 for the meeting with Lord Havelyn.

@Vormog and Rayse
You head back to town after your introduction and short meal.

@All
Feel free to discuss whatever you plan for the next day. Everyone is made aware of what all has happened.
BTW: In the morning, Welcome to 4th level.

@Vormog: Chaotic Neutral. He's out for #1.... It would likely take little to no effort to tip him to evil acts, if it benefited him.
'Mad Martin' oddly enough is Neutral Good. He just seems detached from humanity as he focuses on his birds.
Tacitus is Lawful Neutral. The Lord of course is Lawful Good, as in Paladin of Mitra, almost blindingly so. Same with Captain Barhold but not so blinding of an aura. The Father of course.... LG.
Lord Havelyn is glad to have you join him. He does smile when you mention the leadership position. "I've always found that being open and honest with the men is a primary concern. As long as the men know what is expected of them, and how they will be treated if they fail to do their assigned tasks, makes leading easy....." You are correct. He is long winded on topics that he obviously loves. He does tell you that he's only been here for about a year and volunteered for the post. He proudly comments that they no longer have any need of 'the torture room'. He is rather grim natured, and while very much respected you get that he's not very popular with the men. Father Donnagin on the other hand.... is VERY popular with the men. There are several cheers when he stands to address everyone. "Men. We're here to let you know that we will not leave you leaderless with the recent incident. Let me introduce Robert Vormog. Sergeant Vormog will be taking the reins until a permanent replacement is decided for Captain Eddarly. Likewise Sergeant Rayse will be taking command over Captain Mott's men. Give them both a welcome and pay attention to their commands as if they came directly from Lord Havelyn, or me!"

@Rendylyn
You get the feeling that Barnabus (spell it right....) is serious about his concerns over the men. They are all young and looking quite upset. They've all got a large mug of dark ale in front of them but at most they are sipping it. You also get a feeling the Barnabus isn't a perfect fit for the command. Maybe he wouldn't even be here if he wasn't very good about his work? If you had work for a team of engineers he's probably someone you'd consider. But, you wouldn't invite him to a 'service' as anything but a sacrifice. In plain words, he's neutral....

@Vormog & Rayse
Donaldson gives you 4 names from Mott's men (Rayse's men now), and two each for Eddarly's (Cpl Fillamont is one of them) and Barhold's. He also tells you that while Barhold seems too friendly, he's army to the core. If asked about Captain Varning he shrugs. "I'm not 'an expert rider' so I'm not good enough. Elitist prigs!"
When told that Lord Havelyn was offering Vormog the position over Edderly's men he nods. "Take that! Fillamont will help you out, just mention that I said you're good to go. You won't have any trouble with most of the men, except a couple of the wimps." He names two quick, then thinks a moment and adds one more. "And Fillamont will know if there are any others. Hey? How about having a 'friendly' competition between the men. Weed out the wimps with a good game of Gatorball? It's a good sport, but people can get busted up a little, if you know what I mean.... Play it out in the town market area. There's a day or two before they'll be setting up for that pansy show and the market. Or we could just take it outside the fort in a field. That way we'd be closer to the healers, in case someone gets hurt." The grin on his face is predatory. How did he get past Lord Havelyn's detection? Or is mean not really evil?

You will need to meet with the Knot after the Commander's meeting.
Lord Havelyn introduces Robert and Rayse to Father Donnagin, Captain Barhold, and Magister Tacitus. He informs them that you will be in charge of the two groups at least until they get ravens back from the army High Command. He seems annoyed that Martin Rayard, the 'master of the rookery' doesn't attend and he sends a guard to get the man. "Sometimes I wonder if I should send a raven to him instead." It takes a couple of minutes but middle-aged little man does arrive with a raven on his shoulder. Havelyn explains what he wants sent to command and Martin's eyes glaze over as he repeats the message back, word-for-word, then nods and leaves. Tacitus grumps for a minute then asks to be excused. "I've got work to do on my little experiment. I shouldn't leave it untended." Havelyn waves him out. Once the door closes he looks around the room. "As you can see, there are a few non-military men in my command. The Father and I are thankful to Mitras that you two happened to be here when you were needed. On that subject, Captain Barhold, please report on the prisoner." Captain Barhold stands. "Yes sir. I'm sorry to say the situation is bad. The Father was unable to detect any outside influence. Captain Mott admits to losing control to rage. Someone apparently mentioned that they'd heard a cry from his house. When he arrived.... Well, his wife and Captain Edderly. It was definitely inappropriate and the man deserved Court Martial and expulsion from the ranks, had he survived. As it is, the funerals will be tomorrow so they won't darken the celebration or show in the market this weekend. Separate of course. Captain Mott has declined attending and has requested a quick transfer to Branderscar. We should send a small group of guards. Perhaps Captain Varning and some of his men since riders would make it faster?" Father Donnagin nods at the appropriate points to confirm Captain Barhold's report. Lord Havelyn accepts the report and waves Barhold to his seat. "If that is all? I didn't have the meal here tonight because I intend to eat with the men tonight. Rayse and Robert, you may as well unless you have other plans? It isn't mandatory especially since you just were thrust into your commands today."

Hmm.... Ideas, ideas. And how to implement them?

I've PM'd Posh. Hoping for an answer and to get him back. Don't like replacing another character, especially a complicated one like Posh. But, if needed, does anyone know someone that might be interested? From my experience family and friends tend to keep games going. (Even if the little rat.... or whatever race he's pretending to be, isn't posting much. I know he's been busy! Wait! He's a lizard, not a rat!)

@Rayse
You see Lord Havelyn visibly relax with your answer. Obviously that was the response he wanted almost perfectly. "Excellent. Drill and training. Keep the men focused on becoming better soldiers. I can see Captain mott was right about you. And if you trust Robert, Vormog you say? Interesting family name. Anyway, if you trust him you take him as your second. Unless you think he could take over with Captain Edderly's men? Eddarly was young and popular. He had a second that could possibly take over. I'm just not sure about him. Corporal Fillamont.... But he's still young enough to want to be friends with the men. Talk it over with Robert and see what you both think. And both of you report back here at the first supper bell. The officers eat here while we discuss the day. Father Donnagin and Captain Barhold will be here to discuss the investigation. And I'll have to tell Captain Varning that his 'hunting trips' north will be put on hold until this mess gets sorted out properly. He'll be back in two days. I don't think he cares about the show anymore than I do. But he wants his men to have a chance to see it if they want. He's a good soldier too, but a bit young. Wants to take the fight to the monsters. That's part of why he's only got ten men assigned to him. That, and he demands that all of his men are expert riders. Not many soldiers fit that description!" He stands and offers his hand. "Anyway, Thank you Sergeant Rayse. And I think I'll add to the raven that I think you'll make a good Captain. We'll see what the Army command thinks. Answer by Raven takes a few days."

@Vormog
That's why I was asking if everyone could put their 'alias' in the banner, like Rendylyn has. "Alias Lyn the Red, Dwarf Battle Nun" Thank you Rendylyn! Since Rayse isn't going by an alias, hopefully the Army command won't match his name to the escaped prisoner....
Donaldson stares back at 'Robert', then grins. "Well, I can let you know which of the men are backstabbers and which are just like me, wanting to get ahead. And.... If you like to gamble, drink or wench, I can steer you to the safe spots for each. Don't want to get caught with the wrong ones. There's a cute little lady in town that doesn't cost much. But she'll get you a pox that requires the good Father's magic to cure. Don't want to have to go there! Other than that, not much. I'll do my best to stay out of trouble though, just for you and your friend, assuming he gets put in charge."

@Rendylyn
Barnabas turns to you as you greet him. At first he gets a smirk on his face, then studies the gem. The smile goes away though. "Lass, Normally I'd enjoy such a contest and challenge. But tonight.... I'm sure everyone has heard by now about the issue between two of the Captains. Me and the men are going to drink to Captain Eddarly until the pain of the events is dulled, and then I'm going to drink more. I'll take you up on your contest tomorrow if you want. Or I can work your gem, or gems ?, at a good and proper price. Onyx isn't hard to cut proper, just takes the right tools and care to not split it. But can we discuss it tomorrow morning. I'll be taking a room here tonight and will be here for the morning meal. As for incentive, I always do my best. That's why I'm the lead engineer here. The army knows that my men and I do good work, always!"

@Rayse
Lord Havelyn stands as you speak and keeps his eyes on your face while you speak. As you end your sentences you notice his eyes change focus for a second. Is he using his Paladin ability to 'check' you? He replies quietly. "My officers meet with me at the end of each day to discuss things. Captain Mott mentioned you, and another that seemed to be with you. I think he said his name was Robert? Both of you are experienced men. He didn't think you were soldiers though, but definitely trained fighters." He pauses, apparently thinking about things for a moment, then starts to sit back down. "Have a seat. When I meet with my officers at the end of the day we don't stay standing through the meeting."

He waits for you to sit, then continues. "You're offering to help cover Captain Mott's men until things get sorted out? That's almost too good to be true, but Mitra provides. I'm sure you've heard the rumors. Father Donnagin and Captain Barhold are going to the house to investigate right now. I'm sure they'll report back fairly soon. The guards that escorted Captain Mott back have already reported so I'll confirm at least part of the rumor for you, just so you know what can of worms you're getting in to. Captain Mott was found at his home with his wife and Captain Eddarly. Someone screamed and alerted the neighborhood and the watch. Mott's wife and Captain Eddarly are dead and Captain Mott was covered in blood. His weapon was bloody so it was assumed that he killed both his wife and Captain Eddarly. The Father will be examining for any outside, evil influences. Captain Mott has been an outstanding soldier to every regard so we are waiting to question him under a truth spell. If the charges are warranted we will convene a court martial in two days. If he is found guilty, which is almost certain since the evidence will be fully reviewed by then, he will be sent to Branderscar prison pending execution." He pauses and stares hard at you.... "Knowing all that, do you still want the job? I can't promote you to Captain, not right away. But I can appoint you as a Sergeant, pending review. If you can keep order with his men for a week that position will be permanent. I'll have a raven sent and command will decide whether to promote you or send a replacement. Can you do it? Better question, do you want to? Some of the men are young and will probably be upset. Mott was strict but fair, and mostly well.... respected."

@Vormog
Donaldson smiles at your reply. Obviously he likes your answer. Maybe he thinks he'll get his stripes back soon? and the extra pay that goes with them....

@Rendylyn
Understood and expected. The engineer tries to continue the conversation a couple of times but you are pretty certain that he doesn't have any female friends.
A couple of hours pass. Something must be keeping Barnabus and the other dwarves are sipping their mugs by the time he arrives. Barnabus arrives with a small group, two other dwarves and 4 guardsmen. He is the only one in heavy armor (half-plate), with a greatsword across his back. Everything about the dwarf indicates strength. As he strides across the floor to an open table he calls out, "Seven mugs of your good ale. And we'll need plenty of refills." to whoever is listening. Treesa comes out from the back with a large tray, smiling as she sits the tray on the table. "And who will be paying tonight sir?" Barnabas laughs and replies, "I'll pay. And the young guardsmen will pay me back once their hangovers tomorrow recede enough to let them think again. Four of Captain Eddarly's men, needing to drown some sorrow."

He lowers his voice and speaks very quiet to Treesa.

@Rayse
You have no difficulty finding Lord Havelyn's office. He is seated at the table with a lot of paperwork in front of him. He is staring at it, obviously focused on reading it carefully. As you approach he looks up, but does not stand. He looks tired, or upset. He covers the paper but not before you see "Assignment to Branderscar Prison" across the top of the form. "Yes? Oh, you are one of the new men, assigned to Captain Mott. I'm sorry but I don't remember your name yet. And of course with the rumors flying around you know what I'm faced with now. How can I help you?"

@Rendylyn
The dwarf glances at you and laughs. "Aye, you think of waiting til after he's put the guard face down in a puddle of his drink to try him? Little lass that you are you still might have a chance. At least as much as a mouse escaping a panther on an open plain! But I'd enjoy watching anyway. Be aware that he watches for any magic casting during a contest. If you try to neutralize your drink he'll switch the mugs to watch you choke his down!" He does signal for another round, and pays. "Better that you try to 'best him' in bed. Not that any lass could, but he's sometimes willing to concede after a few hours of fun to let the lass have the honor of the win." While it does sound like bragging, you get the feeling that he means what he says. He really thinks what he says is true.

@Vormog
None of the captains are available now. The young man that was talking to Rayse, private Donaldson, moves up to you to try and strike up a conversation. He motions quietly to Rayse, "You with him? I mean you aren't a newb either, not like some of the others. You going to ask for a commission too? Down two captains they'll have to do something. Not like the beast's will attack, but the town will want to keep up appearances, and we got that troupe coming in this weekend...." You get the feeling that he is about as trustworthy as a hungry wolf. Would he report something you said to Rayse?

Treesa can only be used like an NPC. That said, she is a member of the Knot and can be used if you plan it. Her CS is updated and someone could 'run her' in their posts. Her Charm hex is also pretty good. Much better than the standard version!

@Rendylyn
It's barely more than late afternoon when you find two of the dwarf engineers having a meal and large mugs of ale at the inn. They eye you at first until you order refills for them, then they smile and ask you to join them. Treesa brings a tray with three large mugs, tapping one and nodding to you. The fluid in it looks a lot lighter in color than the others. "Onyx gemstones? We mostly work weapons, armor and the siege weapons at the fort. Keep hoping some of those stupid bull-men from the north would come in sight so we could have a little target practice with the ballistas. Or maybe come next month when we get the trebuchets working...." He laughs and drinks deeply with that. "Ever see a thousand pound rock smash a person? Pretty much nothing but paste left!" The other dwarf laughs but also takes the stones to look at them. "Can't see why anyone would want black gems, but Barnabus would be the one to speak with. He'll be here in a couple of hours. Conned some stupid guardsman into a drinking contest. Loser pays! Like any human could out drink him! HA!!!" He tips his mug up, draining it and smiles, "Got coin for another?"

@Rayse & Vormog
The 'lead bully' grins. "I go by Rock with people I like. But I understand military discipline. I'm private Donaldson. I've been from private to corporal and back twice. Sometimes I have 'accidents' like today, and hurt someone. My father was a farmer and I was raised with 'what doesn't kill you makes you stronger'. Made sense to me but the army...." He glances around at some of the smaller men. "Anything you need. First being," He nods at one of the little trainees across the courtyard. "Don't trust that one. He doesn't want to be here. Wanted to be one of Varning's men. He's actually a passable rider, but useless with a bow. But he'll report anyone to the leaders to try and get a promotion, or a switch to Varning's group. Fool doesn't know it'll never happen."

Thanks all. On the road. Will post again Saturday evening.

I have a request, hopefully to get this game moving a little better.

Could everyone at least post a "Not sure what to do" post in the discussion at least every other day? When one or two people are having a discussion the rest of the group may not want to interrupt, and I understand that. But you may have missed a post asking your character a question, or asking your character to do something. We should all be at least glancing at the threads daily....

One other please. Do not update your CS, but be ready to. Depending on the 'next steps' you should all hit a point where you have gained the XP for level 4 soon.

Third: If you are using an alias, please add the name to your status bar. I'm really bad with names and don't want to have to search through posts to figure out what your alias was. Thanks!

@Rayse & Vormog
My interpretation: Vormog's statement was about a breakdown of the chain of command. Rayse indicated concern about surviving an attack.
In addition to the 8 men Rayse was training there are about 20 guardsmen in the area. (Mix of the various groups) The confusion in the area is obvious and there is a lot of quiet, animated conversations. Vormog approaches the guards and makes his proclamation and notices that some of the men shy back from him. Are they afraid of him? Feeling 'doomed' by his words? Three of Mott's trainees, the one that broke another's knee and two others that look a bit rough gather by Rayse. The 'lead bully' replies to Rayse. "Maybe you should report to Lord Havelyn. Rumor says Mott murdered someone. We don't want to be wedged in one of the other captain's teams. We've trained with halberds. I don't want to be on a wall with a bow! You. You're not a newb like us. Maybe he'll make you a Sergeant and put you in charge of us until a new Captain gets here." One of the pair speaks up, "Or Mott gets cleared. No way he murdered someone. He's as square as they come, other than the Lord himself."

Thank you Tehs, and Vormog.

Waiting for input from Posh and Rayse. Rendylyn? Any comment or action? And Treesa is available for simple tasks.

@Rayse and Vormog
I think Vormog misunderstood you and thought you meant the wizard. Remember that Tehs indicated that the mage has an ice golem. However, this makes sense with the current confusion, and he offered another suggestion. Please reply in character.

@Tehs
Perception of random person? Can't beat your 29.... Where do you go?

@Rayse and Vormog
What do you do?

@Rendylyn
You do not see Tehs. What do you do?

@Tehs
You do not see anyone you recognize. What do you do?

@Posh
Please reply to my previous post.

@Posh
Please post details of the planned forgery. What ailment, where, and when do you plan to use it? Do you have access to the map of the land? And please roll your forgery roll.

@Rayse
The guard looks at you, a confused look on his face. "Ah. Captain Barhold is senior. Or maybe see if Lord Havelyn will see you? I don't know. I've never seen this."

@Vormog
Captain Barhold doesn't appear to be listening. Or maybe he thinks finding Father Donnagin is more important? Heading back you find Rayse looking around. Nobody is anywhere near him.

@Rendylyn
So you see Captain Mott taken into custody. Two guards are posted outside the door. Captain Mott is shackled and one of the guards takes his weapon. Then, they walk him past the guard shack to the fort. You notice that there currently are no guards at the guardhouse. #9 on the town map.

dice=Captain Mott's Perception.... Never mind.
Captain Mott runs through after Tehs announcement. He is bloodied and carrying the murder weapon very obviously. Bare seconds after he runs outside there are sounds of screaming. Then more people yelling, civilians screaming for the watch. Sounds of men in armor running. Then there are sounds of men yelling. Captain Mott calls out, very loud, that he is surrendering.

Several minutes go by, still people yelling, confused, angry. Then the area goes quiet. Guards are posted outside of the house as word is sent to the fort, and Captain Mott is taken to the fort.

@Rayse
A guard approaches you while you work with Captain Mott's men. The men are to be dismissed to their quarters. None of them are to leave the fort. Shortly after you see Captain Mott being taken in to the fort. His hands are shackled. He is still in armor, bloodied, but no weapon.

@Vormog
You and Captain Barhold hear someone calling to find the captain. Once the guard arrives he tells the captain that all guards not on guard duty are to go to their quarters and wait. Nobody is to go to town until further notice. Their has been a murder in town and Father Donnagin is called to investigate. Captain Barhold has been requested to accompany the Father. Sam nods to Vormog, "Part of my duties. I usually accompany Father Donnagin on things like this. You should go back to Captain Mott. He'll probably dismiss you, but I shouldn't." Unless you stop him he leaves to join Father Donnagin.

@Rendylyn
Roll Perception. 20 = You hear the initial scream. 15 = You hear as the crowd escalates the sound and the guards arrive joining the yelling. 10 = You hear someone yelling to someone else to talk about what happened. Captain Mott is already on the trail to the fort, in shackles.
What were you doing after your trip to the smith's?

@Tehs
Nobody enters the house immediately. What are you doing after you hear that guards are posted outside the front door? There is no back door but there are several windows.

@Vormog
"Each Captain has 30 men assigned to him, except for Captain Varning. He only has 10, but they are specialized. Like I said, they have to be expert riders and wanting to go hunting in the northern lands."

"Sense Motive: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (5) + 12 = 17"

You sense that he is very open about what he says, and that he's an old, dedicated soldier. He looks to be 35-40 years old.

The Captain starts to nod, but changes it to shaking his head negative. "I'll happily be with any of my men that desire. But I wouldn't want to take them from the event if they want. And I won't provide alcohol. I don't think that would be appropriate. I don't touch the stuff."

@Vormog
You get Lawful Good. However, give me a sense motive roll.
Captain Barhold laughs. "I wasn't suggesting that you apply to his rangers. You need to be pretty much an expert rider for that, and there's a long list of applicants already. I just meant if you wanted to know the enemy better. Some of the young men think they're just animals. I don't underestimate them like that." He considers Vormog's response about 'spying' and nods. "No. I shouldn't have asked. I know he had a problem.... But it's not a guardsman's job to spy. I wasn't thinking right."

He pauses for a second, then seems to have realized that he didn't answer one question. His face goes sour (more so than normal??) and he adds, "I guess the show is fine for kids. I don't see the draw personally. I won't be wasting my time with it."

@Vormog.
Captain Barhold seems quite relaxed as he walks with 'Robert'. "This keep has good history. If you've got time I'll show you around. We keep a good stock of arrows for the 'murder gate'. You may have heard the story. Under a previous commander some enemy were allowed entry through the portcullis. But the gate into the fortress was closed. Then the portcullis was dropped to trap them in and the archers opened fire. Several dozen enemy were killed on the bridge. Then they opened up on the outside forces with the ballista. Personally I can't say that I would have liked being involved with that. I'm a career military man, trained to kill the enemy. But that wasn't a military action. Just slaughter. And the forces out there? They're not animals. Monsters maybe, and evil by our standards. But they are thinking creatures. If you'd like to know more about them maybe you should speak to Captain Varning. He should be back in time for the Town Market and the performance. I think he likes things like shows from the 'Bard of Barrington'." Judging by his tone Sam is not impressed with the Bard of Barrington....

He takes you up to the gatehouse and shows you the controls for the portcullis and drawbridge, the storage areas there for forces fighting a siege, and the archer slits for the "Bridge of Death". You meet several of the dwarf engineers working there. He pauses to think about the question of his brother. "Bellam.... He's a good man. But I chose a military career. It fits me. My men are my family. Bellam isn't a good fit for military. He and his wife are a good match. They cleaned up that inn of theirs. I was worried at first that they might continue the brothel. It was good money I understand, but the Commander had no tolerance for it. He and Father Donnagin would have shut them down and sent them back south if they hadn't cleaned it up."

"Since you're staying there I'd like to ask a favor. Keep an eye on Bellam for me. He used to have a bit of a drinking problem. Let me know if you see him badly drunk. I keep my distance, not wanting to be the over-protective brother. But if he's hitting the sauce again, I'd like to know."

Tehs follows Captain Mott, watching the area to see if anyone is watching too closely. No. The people seemed interested in Mott, hustling along in his heavy full plate armor. Tehs keeps his distance, but stays close enough to watch for any change. His caution seemed to be unnecessary though as the human rushed along, only watching ahead of him. Was he really that concerned about his wife? Tehs isn't sure why. The human woman didn't seem all that important....

As Captain Mott arrived at his home he calls out, not waiting at the door of course but obviously worried. He rushes in. Tehs rushes closer to try and slip in before a crowd appears. There is screaming from within the house and a crowd would certainly appear. Now focusing on stealth he moves through the house, approaching the noise, the sound.... of battle?

He arrives at the Mott's bedroom. Captain Mott is attacking wildly. Captain Eddarly and Kaitlyn Mott are naked. Eddarly has his sword and a dagger, but without armor he is no match for Captain Mott. Surprisingly Kaitlyn Mott is screaming and trying to defend Eddarly. Franz Mott strikes her down with his halberd. Both men freeze in shock seeing Kaitlyn go down, a bloody stripe from her breast down to her waist. It is a mortal wound. Eddarly slashes Mott and thrusts with his dagger. His rage aids his strength and both weapons strike. Attacking recklessly like that makes him vulnerable and Captain Mott strikes hard, driving his weapon deep in the man's chest.

Captain Franz Mott stands over his dead wife and her lover, Captain Zacharias Eddarly. He is breathing hard and bleeding from several wounds, one rather severe in his chest. But he is still standing. Tehs stands behind the man, unseen.

Rayse catches a glint in the eye of one of the stronger men. He prompts him as he matches him with one of the weaker trainees. After a quick exchange of blows the stronger man spins his training halberd and cracks it against his opponent's knee. The sound of a breaking bone is immediately covered by a shriek of pain and the laughter. "Yes sir. Bad footwork!"

The acolyte moves in to examine the trainee on the ground. She casts a spell. "That should help with the pain. Hold still. I'll have to splint your leg. The magic won't repair the bone." She calls for her kit and a splint.

@Rayse:
About an hour after you start the training work things are interrupted by a familiar, very dirty gnome female, breathing hard. "Sir Mott! Um, I mean Captain. I hate to interrupt but.... Sir, there's been a disturbance in town. Something happened at your home. There was a scream, possibly your wife? I ran as fast as I could, but you know the distance." Captain Mott jumps up. "Men. Stay here. Keep training. I'll be back." He sprints away.... As well as anyone can 'sprint' in full plate armor.

The gnome waits for a moment then follows, blending into the crowd and shadows.

@Vormog:
Captain Barhold smiles. "Robert. Strong name for a strong man. Yes. I do spend much of my time with my men. They're like a family to me. I'm a lifetime soldier, unlike my brother. Surely you know Bellam? The innkeeper? He and his wife run the only inn in the town. They've cleaned it up. Used to be a brothel as well as an inn you know."

"Mott did say that you looked less than comfortable with the halberd. Don't be offended. He's an expert with the weapon and trains the soldiers under him with it. But, like I fight with my big sword when my men fight with sword and shield, you can choose to fight with the weapon that you know best. The important thing is that we can defend the fortress if the monsters from the north are ever stupid enough to attack! It's also good to teach the soldiers to work with others that use different weapons."

Vormog goes to meet with Captain Barhold. While the middle-aged man's men use sword and shield, Captain Barhold wears a greatsword on his back. He greets Vormog with a smile. "So, you drew the short straw? Just kidding. Captain Mott had nothing but good to say about both of you. We seldom get 'new recruits' that know more than which end of the sword to point at an enemy. What's your story? And, off duty what do you prefer to be called? I tend to be informal when possible. Off duty I ask the men to call me Sam."

Captain Mott takes Rayse back to the training grounds. "I'll let you lead the training today. I'll just take a seat and watch. Try not to hurt any of the men, much." Across the training grounds you see two of Father Donnagin's acolytes. Perhaps they are here to heal wounds?

Tehs listens carefully to Rendylyn, and gives a wicked smile. "Yes Mistress. Nobody pays attention to me while I work. Dirty little gnome does the work that nobody wants to do.... But the Captain? Yes Mistress. He will come if he thinks his wife is in danger."

"If it works out today, should I follow him? Or notify anyone else? I would need to know where that someone else is." The smile on her face is.... dangerous.

Tehs listens to Rendylyn and replies, "Yes Mistress. I can do that. I go to work in the morning, but I watch Captain Edderly. I recognize the human. I can follow him. If he comes to town, to see Mrs. Mott.... Do you want me to watch? Or report to someone? I've seen it happen before."

@Rayse and Vormog:
You report to Captain Mott. "Would one of you like to lead the training today? I'd like the other to work with Captain Barhold. He heard about you two yesterday and asked to meet you. I told him he couldn't 'poach' either of you, but Father Donnigan said that it wasn't appropriate for Mitrans to horde resources...."

@Rendylyn:
"The dwarves? Their leader usually stops by a couple times a week. A couple or more of his men always come with him. It's been a couple days so likely tonight. They work late so probably about dusk. If anyone is stupid enough to challenge Barnabus to a drinking contest they'd better be ready to pay for the drinks. Nobody out drinks that dwarf!"

"Others from the fortress? Most of the men here every night are men from the fort, with coin in their pockets. They drink to get courage before going down the street for some time with a girl.... You know about that right? We're not allowed, but you gotta 'serve the men. So, down the street." You get a wicked grin with that.

"You want to buy horses and a wagon? Wagon is easy enough. But horses are either at the fort or in use on farms. Maybe you could buy a couple when the troupe gets here with the merchants. They always leave with a few empties. Might get a good price to take one of them. ??"

The smith examines the weapons and the statue. He is impressed by the greataxe, not so much the trident, but he grins at the statue. Normal half price for items sold (base). +10% for the axe. 30 GP for the statue. Roll diplomacy for your negotiation.
1-10: -5%
11-15: No change
16-20: +5%
20+: +10%

Did we do introductions before? I forget. Maybe cause I'm old.... As in mid-60s, so only a little bit old! I do IT support for USPS (work from home) and not sure if I will ever retire. I tried retirement in 1998 and got bored after two days. I gotta be busy!

Also an Iowa native. Currently in NC but planning to move to Boston if the city will ever OK some construction.... Tehs is family, younger generation but the only one smart enough to have learned this game!

Moving fairly quick on the return trip you get back to the inn. Rendylyn casts silence so you can all return to your rooms to discuss the next day's plans and then get some rest.

Day 3

Previously posted for today
@Rendylyn
Ears of the City:
1. I hear Father Donnagin will be doing the sermon for the next service. I sure wish he was the regular priest here. He's so.... Well he is! He deserves a better posting!
2. Gotta get over to the inn later. I hear Bellam Barhold got some new wine in. The good stuff! A fine elven wine! I wonder where he got it!
3. Did you hear? The handsome Captain Edderly rushed out to Captain Mott's home yesterday afternoon. I guess Kaitlyn didn't want to disturb her husband with whatever she needed.... (There is laughter of several women after this statement.)

Please state who is doing what. I assume Vormog and Rayse are 'going too work' in the fort. Will they be covered with magic so the evil will not be detected?
Note: Keep in mind that Treesa is still with you and you can use her skills. She works during the day at the inn and has her charm hex. She could ask questions of anyone at the inn and likely not raise suspicion. It is a very high Will save to notice anything. The Legendary Witch Charm hex works different and much better than the regular one.

Just to clarify. As I stated, when you looked at the bottles, some of them have been opened, drained and refilled. It appears that they were filled with a cheap wine that might have gone sour. The 'good stuff' is white and clear. The replacement is yellow and a little cloudy. If you opened the bottle and sniff it.... You wouldn't enjoy the smell. It wouldn't be noticed but you were examining the bottles.

PM sent

Vormog, Please roll an Intelligence check.