Smiling and taking Shae’s arm as they headed towards the study, the Professor says, “Actually, no, I haven’t seen them since our last nature trek, about a week ago. Fang told me I have really gotten the hang of at least the cerebral portion of junglecraft. I was hoping they might make an appearance here—I take it you haven’t heard from them either?”
His expression growing a bit more somber and concerned, he added, “And what of Maxine or Berrus? Any news from them?”
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
Shae was delighted to hear that the Professor had made time to spend with Fang during their break. She'd feel the weight of her own guilt get heavier when he'd admit he hasn't seen Fang for a little while. The half-elf's expression would mirror the Professor's concern.
And when he'd ask of Maxine or Berrus, she'd feel her heart sink, hand gripping his arm as she'd shake her head. Her eyes were saddened, reflecting the heart ache she was burying deep down from missing them all. After some silence, she'd swallow before breaking it. "They're beginning this chapter in their own story arch." Shae would share a warm smile, taking comfort in the hope of crossing paths again.
The spectacle was just what Otto needed. With the entire assembly watching the comely half-elf's display, the painted halfling maneuvered through the crowd until he was on the outskirts and then slipped up the main staircase to the second floor, as though to gain a better view. All eyes were on the crowd as he moved along the balcony until he reached the door that to the library. He froze momentarily as the host appeared on the balustrade, but as the booming voice drew all eyes toward it, Otto grinned and quietly opened the door ...
Because Otto just had to sneak another look!
It didn't take much to pique Otto's curiosity under normal circumstances. The city was a colourful places with many fleeting distractions that captured the halfling's interest for a few moments before he moved on to the next novelty. Intrepid adventurers and their outlandish tales were of interest, and sometimes ancient artifacts turned up now and again with, although many turned out to be boring pieces of junk from some forgotten civilisation. But when Otto had first heard of the Rod of Ihuicaxiuitl, now housed in the collection of Prince Wakanga O'Tamu, he had felt a peculiar sense of wonder, and for once he had difficulty taking his mind off the subject. The invitation to perform at the prince's palace was most convenient, and the day before Otto had been admitted into the palace for a brief tour, under the pretense that as a performer he needed to see the area prior to the event. And there it had been, resting in a display case in a small library on the second floor! Otto had only the chance for a brief look before being moved along by the servants, but the sight filled him with a fresh sense of awe.
Now Otto was alone in the room, gazing unmolested on the object of his fascination. He pressed his nose up against the glass, his breath fogging the view slightly, but his eyes remaining fixed as his heart beat rapidly. And in Otto's mind, the Rod stared back at him with mutual longing, calling out to him to free it from its transparent prison that it might fill the measure of its creation...
(OOC: I hope this isn't the study that the Prince is about to hold his meeting in...)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
At the Executioner's run:
With Fang's conetration gone, the sharp spikes and bone shards are easily turned over underneath the raving beast. Determined to shake Reng off, it starts to buck and twist throwing its head to either side and whipping with it's tail. Reng, you're trying your hardest to stay on the beast's back, while Fang is still in terrible peril from the sharp horns whizzing past him, but somehow manages to successfully dodge the sharp horns!
The halfelf, with his last ounce of strength, lands a blow right underneath the jaw of the weaker panther, and with a gurgle, it collapses, dead. In a flurry of action, he withdraws his dagger and lunges for the second panther, not outnumbered for the first time. Fighting for his very survival, he delivers a vicious draw cut along the panther's left flank, but it snarls and leaps at the halfelf. Although managing to block the claw strike with his right forearm, he is brought down by the weight of the panther. In a gruesome display, the panther digs its teeth into the halfelf's neck and tears out his throat with a loud roar, almost immediately drowned out by the cheers of the crowd.
Further to the back, the halfling tries to open the beartrap clamped around his crushed leg, but fails to open it and is still pinned in place.
Reng and Fang, you're up!
Reng, please make a DC 22 Athletics check to hold on. If you do, you can take your action atop of the beast. Fang, please make a DC 17 Dexterity throw, or suffer 17 slashing damage from the horns. If you make the save, you get advantage on any attack actions against the triceratops for the next turn.
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Wincing from the pain of the beast gouging him before Fang places his hand on the wound and repeats the chant that Trala had taught him... Ah the quite, relatively anyways, life of Palebank. It seems like so long ago since he’s been home. cure wounds: 8
Seeing one of the other ‘contestants’ attempting to ride the massive triceratops Fang isn’t entirely sure calming the beast will work. But he’s gonna try it again anyway... though maybe from outside of getting impaled from the creatures horns range. Animal handling: 6
Using the distraction, Otto deftly makes his way past the attending guests and up the sweeping stairs. You manage to duck behind a large vase just as Wakanga O'Tamu makes his speech, carefully maneuvering behind him and his guards to get into the study. The rod is fascinating, but as you approach, you notice two pins underneath the rod, likely leading to some kind of apparatus that would trigger an alarm or a trap of sorts if not disarmed.
Taking leave of their adoring fans, both Shae and Professor Templeton make their way up to the second floor, behind the merchant prince.
Mulligan, what are you planning to do?
At the Executioner's Run:
Try as he might, Fang is unable to grab the beast's attention and eventually decides that prioritising his own safety over trying to get into the view of the beast is more worthwhile. Unfortunately, with his back to the pit and a large and erratically-moving beast before him, his options are somewhat limited by present circumstances.
Reng meanwhile, you're used to weathering the toughest storms, and the tnese strands of muscle in the flanks and the back of the triceratops let you know a splitsecond before the actual movement, which way it is going to buck. Easily managing to keep your balance, you inch forward on the beast, eventually managing to get your legs leveraged against the back of its crown, securing you quite well in your position and leaving both hands free for now.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Reng does her best to try to encourage the triceratops to stop focusing on the lizardfolk, and either turn away, or become more focused on the angry woman riding her. She yanks the beast's neck to the side by swiveling her hips and knees back out toward the rest of the pit, and she swings the flat of her axeblade hard down on the dinosaur's haunches.
"I'm guessing you like to charge. Let's charge!" she says at normal volume, more to herself than anyone else, given the chaos and the din of the crowd. Then, much louder, she calls out, "Is zees 'ow Chult dispenses justice? Sending people to zeir deaths wizout charges, wizout reason, wizout trial? Murderers and mutineers run free, while innocents face dinosaurs. Must be Zursday..."
Attack: 25 Damage: 10 Extra Attack: 24 Damage: 10
(Going for nonlethal here, just trying to damage the dino, not kill it. And if it spurs them on a furious run around the pit, that's great.)
Otto hears the Rod's cry for help - begging to be released from the shackles that bind it - to be free to live according to its own desires and not the whims of another. "I will help you" whispers the halfling, with a tear in his eye because he understands exactly what the Rod means.
Otto examines the mechanism as best he can, looking for how to disengage the pins, or whether something of a similar size or shape can be placed on them as a substitute. When he feels he has an idea, he will make the attempt.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Otto makes a detailed check...
"One pin here, anoth- I wonder what they're made of it looks li- someone must dust in here there's hardl- there's fingerprints on the glass oh wait I think they're mi- oh look I can see my reflec- Ah! Aaaaah! Haha my tongue is really long especially whe- Why is it so dark in her- What am I doing in here anyw- Oh yeah the rod. Ok, I'm ready!"
Investigation: 4
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Mulligan McScáth, newly acquired trinkets safely concealed in a couple of his inside pockets - for all his clothes were specially tailored to have at least a few small hidden pockets - is chagrined that his new friend has been swooped out from under him. Figuratively, of course. Mulligan was more familiar with doing the swooping... What to do, what to do...
“Ladies and gentlemen!” Mulligan calls out, walking backwards up the stairs the fair maiden was so recently escorted up, still with a drink in both hands.
“Ladies and gentleman, if I may have your attention?And yes... of course yours as well.Whatever you are...” Mulligan drew as many eyes to himself as he could.He was still unsure what his plan was, but he’d enact it with gusto!
He paused about half way up the stairs, no need having any guards raising an eyebrow, or anything else.“It would seem my companion has been commandeered by our host,” Mulligan announces as he hold the two drinks in his hands out for all to see.The crowd reacts with some tittering, some sympathetic “Awws” but mostly uneasiness, unsure if this is a part of the entertainment or not.
Mulligan quickly drained one of the cups, tossed it to the nearest guard with a theatrical wink and announced “Well, that’s one problem solved anyway!” to a few more chuckles.
“But abandoned and besotted or not, the show must go on!” He announced with much aplomb.The crowd generally agreed.They agreed more loudly when he asked “Does it not?” And then again “Does it not?!?”
“Yes, yes, yes...” Mulligan agreed, turning to walk about halfway more up the stairs, smiling and winking to the guards, including them in the show.
“What shall it be?More card tricks?” Mulligan asked the first guard.The guard stood stoic, unsure if he should answer or act, and the crowd had mixed reactions.
“No, you are right,” Mulligan said as if the guard had answered, and walked up to him to put a friendly hand on his shoulder and face the crowd with him.“Too large a crowds for small tricks, you are too right!”
“So a dance then?” Mulligan asks, doing a smooth sidestep over to another guard.This guard looked critical of the idea and shook his head.“Of course not!This lot don’t have the grace to be back up dancers... But then what should it be?”
Mulligan adopted a classic “thinking” pose and held it long enough that someone had to shout out a suggestion.The first suggestion was... inappropriate for such a high brow gathering, to be sure.But quickly enough someone shouted out “Give us a song!” And Mulligan bowed his head in agreement.
“You boys alright with a song?” He asked the guards who at this point were in little position to do anything but agree.“A song it is then!”
Mulligan sipped his remaining drink and took a step this way and that, gathering his inspiration… Or just letting the crowd’s anticipation gather.Possibly both.
“I’ve been a wild rover for many’s the year,” he told the crowd, taking another sip.
“And I’ve spent all me money on whiskey and beer.” He tipped his cup to the crowd and partook once more.
“But now I’m returning,” he said, his voice taking on more of the lilt of the song. “With gold in great store…”
“And I never will play the Wild Rover no more!”
And it’s no, nay, never
No, nay, never no more
Will I play the Wild Rover
No never, no more
The crowd took to the song as the chorus hit, for it was an old familiar song to any who spent more than the occasional night in a tavern or public house.Perhaps not the most original song but an entertainer aims to entertain above all else.
A few more classic pub songs followed the first, and a few drinks were brought up to Mulligan - either from server or fan, it mattered not - whenever he waggled his cup for more. The song choice wavered from upbeat ditty to slow ballad but Mulligan preferred the songs that did not stretch his range too far. He was a far cry better at telling a story than singing one…
But for all that, when he felt he could command the floor no more without drawing the ire and spite of all the other performers looking to make a coin or two, Mulligan none the less returned to a slow, soft, gentle tune…
“Of all the money that e’er I had
I spent it in good company
And all the harm that I’ve ever done
Alas, it was to none but me…
And all I’ve done for want of wit
To memory now I can’t recall
So fill to me the parting glass
Goodnight and joy be to you all…”
Mulligan finished out the song, the slight roughness of his voice adding an edge to the melancholy words he thought.The crowd seemed pleased enough as the wandered off.It was not the raucous applause and demands for more that a performer normally likes to bow out on but Mulligan had a plan…
Well, he had 12 percent of a plan.
Mulligan turned back to the guards and gave an appreciative smile.He stepped to the wall and bent to pick up one of the drinks he had stowed there.In truth, the crowd passed him far more than he could’ve drank though he certainly made it look as if he’d drank far more than he did.Toasting the guards Mulligan said “Thanks for letting me steal your stage for a bit…” and drank the cup dry.
“You guys mind if I just…” Mulligan turned to put his back against the wall and slumped down into a seated position, above 6 or 7 steps away from the guard.
“Uhhh, that feels good,” he said, sounding pleased and exhausted.“Seriously guys, you mind if I just sit her for a moment or three?I’m about done in from all of that…” And with that, Mulligan McScáth did his best to be unobtrusive and forgotten about by the guards.He was hoping, at best, to perhaps overhear what was going on in the meeting or at least some chatter between the guards about it.At worst, he wanted to be close by when Shae returned.
With her free hand, Shae would lift her skirt when climbing the stairs. As silence fell over the pair, she'd look to the Professor after reaching the top. "What ever could he wish to discuss?" She'd muse out loud, head tilting. They'd find out soon enough, but she couldn't help but let the thoughtful possibilities hang in the air before they'd get swept up in the Princes charisma once again.
"I know what I'd like to talk to the prince about," says Snively to Shae quietly, but he concedes, "However, with people of power, one follows their agenda, including topics of discussion."
The professor moves smoothly up the stairs with the taller folk, having gotten used to dealing with facilities scaled for people larger than gnomes over the last few months. He smiles wryly back at Shae, saying, "I can't tell you how good it is to see you again. I never thought I'd miss traipsing through the jungle with our less-than-merry band, but there it is."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
A small smirk tugged at her lips when Snively would chime in. Of course he already had something in mind to talk to the prince about. Shae wouldn't pry. She was sure she'd find out soon enough. But she couldn't help but wonder if there could be anything she could, or should, be asking for. Hmm...
The Professor accompanied Shae's grace with smooth steps of his own. Despite their height differences, they accommodated each other as they ascended, eventually reaching the top. She'd release her dress, smoothing it out just before they'd proceed. Catching Snively's smile and hearing his words, a soft chuckle would even leave her lips when he'd admit he missed adventuring through the jungle. The half-elf's face would soften returning a warm dimpled smile and he hand that held onto his arm would give a gentle squeeze. "It's been a joy to reconnect again." She'd nod. "And thank you." She'd begin to add, "For adding your touch to the theatrics." There was a hint of redness in her cheeks.
They'd continue following the merchant prince towards his study. "I have to agree. I've been itching to get back out there." Shae'd chuckle, swaying her hips just a tad to give the Professor the tiniest of bumps, not enough to throw him off balance, but a little nudge in hopes he'd catch her joke. "We really need to make sure we bring plenty bug repellent next time." She'd add in a soft whisper.
((The Professor and MaryAn... errr, Shae are still behind where Mulligan is so he'll just be sitting (seemingly drunkenly and tiredly) against the wall until there's a reason to do otherwise... Also, it occurs to me Mulligan performed perhaps longer than he'd actually get a chance to so if something happens immediately upon them entering or such, feel free to retcon me a bit...))
Smiling in agreement with Shae, the Professor says, “Right you are, I am not sure if it was the rigor of travel or the insect bites, but I feel like I lost half my body weight on the way back to civilization. As diets go, that was one of the more uncomfortable ones.”
Patting his trim but now slightly regrown tummy, Snively adds, “Now let us see what business the prince has with us, and if he perhaps might be able to help me with my research on freeing my friend Whiff here,” tapping his bubbling pipe as a says that last part.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
Otto, focusing on the rod, and the display, you notice that there is a hidden keyhole, behind a small ivory decorative plate that can be pushed aside. As you're about to start working your magic with your own set of thieves' tools, you suddenly hear one of the performers break into loud song outside the door. Choosing the distraction to do what you can, you manage to set the pins in the lock, and as the last one is pushed into place, you hear a clicking sound, confirming to you that the pins are set in place. Just as you're about to try and get around the glass cover though, you hear steps approaching the door!
What do you do?
---------------------------------
Mulligan, you're close enough to hear the conversation between Shae and Professor Templeton. You also overhear the Merchant prince turning toward Shae and answering in a warm tone: "I'm very glad to hear you're eager to return to the lands beyond the city walls. Come now, and let us discuss the details." With that, one of the large guards, who stoically endured all of Mulligan's shenanigans, opens the door to the library.
At the Executioner's Run:
OOC: So sorry, I thought I had responded to this!
As Reng slaps the flat of her axe onto the triceratop's backside, it rapidly whirls around and starts to charge forwards, wild by its inability to shake off its rider. Reng is unable to control the direction, but she spurs the beast on with a second slap, causing the triceratops to shriek like a large wounded bird. The sound is almost drowned out by the racuous cheers and the sounds of incredulity from the masses, who have never seen such a display.
Reng, please roll another athletics check, DC 12 to see whether you can stay on the triceratops, or whether you will fall off!
Faced with a charging triceratops, the remaining wounded panther decides to bolt for one of the sides of the arena, rather than trying to go after the trapped halfling. He in turn is desperately trying to free himself from the trap, and barely manages to do so, but is still scrambling to get back on his feet.
Fang, with the triceratops having turned around and now charging down the pit, what would you like to do? Reng, what is your next course of action?
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
A genuine laugh would leave Shae when Snively would comment on the diet, patting his belly. "You're right. I don't think I could have afforded to lose much more out there." It was true though. It did take them a while to adjust to their life in the wild. And truthfully, their source of protein didn't really come until Fang joined them. He always hunted or fished. Since her return to shore though, Shae wasn't shy of indulging in her fair share of meals, luxuries, and other pleasures as the time allowed. It showed with how she filled out her dress and the way it accentuated her curves and showed off her toned muscles from training.
The professor would bring attention to his pipe. Shae's eyes would lighten up remembering Whiff and how Snively always treated him with respect. He also would have him participate in his magic displays as well. "Ah yes! Whiff!" Shae had even sketched him. She'd smile warmly thinking back to it all. It was only a matter of time they'd hear what the Merchant Prince wanted. "Let's!" She agreed with the Professor before she'd start chewing on her lip. "I think, I may have thought of a thing or two." The scholar would add quietly.
When the Merchant Prince would turn to her with a warm response, she'd fight the reddening of her cheeks. Shae would present him with a confident smile, mischief glinting behind her eyes. "There's only so much excitement to be had within the confines of walls." She'd say to him in passing while being escorted into the study.
As a minimum, Otto will pull out his face-paints and pretend to be changing his make-up and using the glass surface as a mirror. If there is sufficient time, and if it looks like a simple matter to just open the glass cover and lift the rod out, then Otto will attempt to do so before the door opens, and slip the rod into his clothes first.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
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Glasses:
Smiling and taking Shae’s arm as they headed towards the study, the Professor says, “Actually, no, I haven’t seen them since our last nature trek, about a week ago. Fang told me I have really gotten the hang of at least the cerebral portion of junglecraft. I was hoping they might make an appearance here—I take it you haven’t heard from them either?”
His expression growing a bit more somber and concerned, he added, “And what of Maxine or Berrus? Any news from them?”
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
Shae was delighted to hear that the Professor had made time to spend with Fang during their break. She'd feel the weight of her own guilt get heavier when he'd admit he hasn't seen Fang for a little while. The half-elf's expression would mirror the Professor's concern.
And when he'd ask of Maxine or Berrus, she'd feel her heart sink, hand gripping his arm as she'd shake her head. Her eyes were saddened, reflecting the heart ache she was burying deep down from missing them all. After some silence, she'd swallow before breaking it. "They're beginning this chapter in their own story arch." Shae would share a warm smile, taking comfort in the hope of crossing paths again.
just an unstable unicorn.
The spectacle was just what Otto needed. With the entire assembly watching the comely half-elf's display, the painted halfling maneuvered through the crowd until he was on the outskirts and then slipped up the main staircase to the second floor, as though to gain a better view. All eyes were on the crowd as he moved along the balcony until he reached the door that to the library. He froze momentarily as the host appeared on the balustrade, but as the booming voice drew all eyes toward it, Otto grinned and quietly opened the door ...
Because Otto just had to sneak another look!
It didn't take much to pique Otto's curiosity under normal circumstances. The city was a colourful places with many fleeting distractions that captured the halfling's interest for a few moments before he moved on to the next novelty. Intrepid adventurers and their outlandish tales were of interest, and sometimes ancient artifacts turned up now and again with, although many turned out to be boring pieces of junk from some forgotten civilisation. But when Otto had first heard of the Rod of Ihuicaxiuitl, now housed in the collection of Prince Wakanga O'Tamu, he had felt a peculiar sense of wonder, and for once he had difficulty taking his mind off the subject. The invitation to perform at the prince's palace was most convenient, and the day before Otto had been admitted into the palace for a brief tour, under the pretense that as a performer he needed to see the area prior to the event. And there it had been, resting in a display case in a small library on the second floor! Otto had only the chance for a brief look before being moved along by the servants, but the sight filled him with a fresh sense of awe.
Now Otto was alone in the room, gazing unmolested on the object of his fascination. He pressed his nose up against the glass, his breath fogging the view slightly, but his eyes remaining fixed as his heart beat rapidly. And in Otto's mind, the Rod stared back at him with mutual longing, calling out to him to free it from its transparent prison that it might fill the measure of its creation...
(OOC: I hope this isn't the study that the Prince is about to hold his meeting in...)
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
At the Executioner's run:
With Fang's conetration gone, the sharp spikes and bone shards are easily turned over underneath the raving beast. Determined to shake Reng off, it starts to buck and twist throwing its head to either side and whipping with it's tail. Reng, you're trying your hardest to stay on the beast's back, while Fang is still in terrible peril from the sharp horns whizzing past him, but somehow manages to successfully dodge the sharp horns!
The halfelf, with his last ounce of strength, lands a blow right underneath the jaw of the weaker panther, and with a gurgle, it collapses, dead. In a flurry of action, he withdraws his dagger and lunges for the second panther, not outnumbered for the first time. Fighting for his very survival, he delivers a vicious draw cut along the panther's left flank, but it snarls and leaps at the halfelf. Although managing to block the claw strike with his right forearm, he is brought down by the weight of the panther. In a gruesome display, the panther digs its teeth into the halfelf's neck and tears out his throat with a loud roar, almost immediately drowned out by the cheers of the crowd.
Further to the back, the halfling tries to open the beartrap clamped around his crushed leg, but fails to open it and is still pinned in place.
Reng and Fang, you're up!
Reng, please make a DC 22 Athletics check to hold on. If you do, you can take your action atop of the beast. Fang, please make a DC 17 Dexterity throw, or suffer 17 slashing damage from the horns. If you make the save, you get advantage on any attack actions against the triceratops for the next turn.
11 vs 12 for 5 and 20 vs 12 for 6
12 vs 10 for 6
Strength Check 10 vs 16
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Dexterity check: 21 (If dex save add 3)
Wincing from the pain of the beast gouging him before Fang places his hand on the wound and repeats the chant that Trala had taught him... Ah the quite, relatively anyways, life of Palebank. It seems like so long ago since he’s been home. cure wounds: 8
Seeing one of the other ‘contestants’ attempting to ride the massive triceratops Fang isn’t entirely sure calming the beast will work. But he’s gonna try it again anyway... though maybe from outside of getting impaled from the creatures horns range. Animal handling: 6
Otto Stealth: 21
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Reng athletics: 27
At the party:
Using the distraction, Otto deftly makes his way past the attending guests and up the sweeping stairs. You manage to duck behind a large vase just as Wakanga O'Tamu makes his speech, carefully maneuvering behind him and his guards to get into the study. The rod is fascinating, but as you approach, you notice two pins underneath the rod, likely leading to some kind of apparatus that would trigger an alarm or a trap of sorts if not disarmed.
Taking leave of their adoring fans, both Shae and Professor Templeton make their way up to the second floor, behind the merchant prince.
Mulligan, what are you planning to do?
At the Executioner's Run:
Try as he might, Fang is unable to grab the beast's attention and eventually decides that prioritising his own safety over trying to get into the view of the beast is more worthwhile. Unfortunately, with his back to the pit and a large and erratically-moving beast before him, his options are somewhat limited by present circumstances.
Reng meanwhile, you're used to weathering the toughest storms, and the tnese strands of muscle in the flanks and the back of the triceratops let you know a splitsecond before the actual movement, which way it is going to buck. Easily managing to keep your balance, you inch forward on the beast, eventually managing to get your legs leveraged against the back of its crown, securing you quite well in your position and leaving both hands free for now.
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Reng does her best to try to encourage the triceratops to stop focusing on the lizardfolk, and either turn away, or become more focused on the angry woman riding her. She yanks the beast's neck to the side by swiveling her hips and knees back out toward the rest of the pit, and she swings the flat of her axeblade hard down on the dinosaur's haunches.
"I'm guessing you like to charge. Let's charge!" she says at normal volume, more to herself than anyone else, given the chaos and the din of the crowd. Then, much louder, she calls out, "Is zees 'ow Chult dispenses justice? Sending people to zeir deaths wizout charges, wizout reason, wizout trial? Murderers and mutineers run free, while innocents face dinosaurs. Must be Zursday..."
Attack: 25 Damage: 10
Extra Attack: 24 Damage: 10
(Going for nonlethal here, just trying to damage the dino, not kill it. And if it spurs them on a furious run around the pit, that's great.)
Otto hears the Rod's cry for help - begging to be released from the shackles that bind it - to be free to live according to its own desires and not the whims of another. "I will help you" whispers the halfling, with a tear in his eye because he understands exactly what the Rod means.
Otto examines the mechanism as best he can, looking for how to disengage the pins, or whether something of a similar size or shape can be placed on them as a substitute. When he feels he has an idea, he will make the attempt.
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Otto makes a detailed check...
"One pin here, anoth- I wonder what they're made of it looks li- someone must dust in here there's hardl- there's fingerprints on the glass oh wait I think they're mi- oh look I can see my reflec- Ah! Aaaaah! Haha my tongue is really long especially whe- Why is it so dark in her- What am I doing in here anyw- Oh yeah the rod. Ok, I'm ready!"
Investigation: 4
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Mulligan McScáth, newly acquired trinkets safely concealed in a couple of his inside pockets - for all his clothes were specially tailored to have at least a few small hidden pockets - is chagrined that his new friend has been swooped out from under him. Figuratively, of course. Mulligan was more familiar with doing the swooping... What to do, what to do...
“Ladies and gentlemen!” Mulligan calls out, walking backwards up the stairs the fair maiden was so recently escorted up, still with a drink in both hands.
“Ladies and gentleman, if I may have your attention? And yes... of course yours as well. Whatever you are...” Mulligan drew as many eyes to himself as he could. He was still unsure what his plan was, but he’d enact it with gusto!
He paused about half way up the stairs, no need having any guards raising an eyebrow, or anything else. “It would seem my companion has been commandeered by our host,” Mulligan announces as he hold the two drinks in his hands out for all to see. The crowd reacts with some tittering, some sympathetic “Awws” but mostly uneasiness, unsure if this is a part of the entertainment or not.
Mulligan quickly drained one of the cups, tossed it to the nearest guard with a theatrical wink and announced “Well, that’s one problem solved anyway!” to a few more chuckles.
“But abandoned and besotted or not, the show must go on!” He announced with much aplomb. The crowd generally agreed. They agreed more loudly when he asked “Does it not?” And then again “Does it not?!?”
“Yes, yes, yes...” Mulligan agreed, turning to walk about halfway more up the stairs, smiling and winking to the guards, including them in the show.
“What shall it be? More card tricks?” Mulligan asked the first guard. The guard stood stoic, unsure if he should answer or act, and the crowd had mixed reactions.
“No, you are right,” Mulligan said as if the guard had answered, and walked up to him to put a friendly hand on his shoulder and face the crowd with him. “Too large a crowds for small tricks, you are too right!”
“So a dance then?” Mulligan asks, doing a smooth sidestep over to another guard. This guard looked critical of the idea and shook his head. “Of course not! This lot don’t have the grace to be back up dancers... But then what should it be?”
Mulligan adopted a classic “thinking” pose and held it long enough that someone had to shout out a suggestion. The first suggestion was... inappropriate for such a high brow gathering, to be sure. But quickly enough someone shouted out “Give us a song!” And Mulligan bowed his head in agreement.
“You boys alright with a song?” He asked the guards who at this point were in little position to do anything but agree. “A song it is then!”
Mulligan sipped his remaining drink and took a step this way and that, gathering his inspiration… Or just letting the crowd’s anticipation gather. Possibly both.
“I’ve been a wild rover for many’s the year,” he told the crowd, taking another sip.
“And I’ve spent all me money on whiskey and beer.” He tipped his cup to the crowd and partook once more.
“But now I’m returning,” he said, his voice taking on more of the lilt of the song. “With gold in great store…”
“And I never will play the Wild Rover no more!”
And it’s no, nay, never
No, nay, never no more
Will I play the Wild Rover
No never, no more
The crowd took to the song as the chorus hit, for it was an old familiar song to any who spent more than the occasional night in a tavern or public house. Perhaps not the most original song but an entertainer aims to entertain above all else.
A few more classic pub songs followed the first, and a few drinks were brought up to Mulligan - either from server or fan, it mattered not - whenever he waggled his cup for more. The song choice wavered from upbeat ditty to slow ballad but Mulligan preferred the songs that did not stretch his range too far. He was a far cry better at telling a story than singing one…
But for all that, when he felt he could command the floor no more without drawing the ire and spite of all the other performers looking to make a coin or two, Mulligan none the less returned to a slow, soft, gentle tune…
“Of all the money that e’er I had
I spent it in good company
And all the harm that I’ve ever done
Alas, it was to none but me…
And all I’ve done for want of wit
To memory now I can’t recall
So fill to me the parting glass
Goodnight and joy be to you all…”
Mulligan finished out the song, the slight roughness of his voice adding an edge to the melancholy words he thought. The crowd seemed pleased enough as the wandered off. It was not the raucous applause and demands for more that a performer normally likes to bow out on but Mulligan had a plan…
Well, he had 12 percent of a plan.
Mulligan turned back to the guards and gave an appreciative smile. He stepped to the wall and bent to pick up one of the drinks he had stowed there. In truth, the crowd passed him far more than he could’ve drank though he certainly made it look as if he’d drank far more than he did. Toasting the guards Mulligan said “Thanks for letting me steal your stage for a bit…” and drank the cup dry.
“You guys mind if I just…” Mulligan turned to put his back against the wall and slumped down into a seated position, above 6 or 7 steps away from the guard.
“Uhhh, that feels good,” he said, sounding pleased and exhausted. “Seriously guys, you mind if I just sit her for a moment or three? I’m about done in from all of that…” And with that, Mulligan McScáth did his best to be unobtrusive and forgotten about by the guards. He was hoping, at best, to perhaps overhear what was going on in the meeting or at least some chatter between the guards about it. At worst, he wanted to be close by when Shae returned.
With her free hand, Shae would lift her skirt when climbing the stairs. As silence fell over the pair, she'd look to the Professor after reaching the top. "What ever could he wish to discuss?" She'd muse out loud, head tilting. They'd find out soon enough, but she couldn't help but let the thoughtful possibilities hang in the air before they'd get swept up in the Princes charisma once again.
just an unstable unicorn.
Glasses:
"I know what I'd like to talk to the prince about," says Snively to Shae quietly, but he concedes, "However, with people of power, one follows their agenda, including topics of discussion."
The professor moves smoothly up the stairs with the taller folk, having gotten used to dealing with facilities scaled for people larger than gnomes over the last few months. He smiles wryly back at Shae, saying, "I can't tell you how good it is to see you again. I never thought I'd miss traipsing through the jungle with our less-than-merry band, but there it is."
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
A small smirk tugged at her lips when Snively would chime in. Of course he already had something in mind to talk to the prince about. Shae wouldn't pry. She was sure she'd find out soon enough. But she couldn't help but wonder if there could be anything she could, or should, be asking for. Hmm...
The Professor accompanied Shae's grace with smooth steps of his own. Despite their height differences, they accommodated each other as they ascended, eventually reaching the top. She'd release her dress, smoothing it out just before they'd proceed. Catching Snively's smile and hearing his words, a soft chuckle would even leave her lips when he'd admit he missed adventuring through the jungle. The half-elf's face would soften returning a warm dimpled smile and he hand that held onto his arm would give a gentle squeeze. "It's been a joy to reconnect again." She'd nod. "And thank you." She'd begin to add, "For adding your touch to the theatrics." There was a hint of redness in her cheeks.
They'd continue following the merchant prince towards his study. "I have to agree. I've been itching to get back out there." Shae'd chuckle, swaying her hips just a tad to give the Professor the tiniest of bumps, not enough to throw him off balance, but a little nudge in hopes he'd catch her joke. "We really need to make sure we bring plenty bug repellent next time." She'd add in a soft whisper.
just an unstable unicorn.
((The Professor and MaryAn... errr, Shae are still behind where Mulligan is so he'll just be sitting (seemingly drunkenly and tiredly) against the wall until there's a reason to do otherwise... Also, it occurs to me Mulligan performed perhaps longer than he'd actually get a chance to so if something happens immediately upon them entering or such, feel free to retcon me a bit...))
Glasses:
Smiling in agreement with Shae, the Professor says, “Right you are, I am not sure if it was the rigor of travel or the insect bites, but I feel like I lost half my body weight on the way back to civilization. As diets go, that was one of the more uncomfortable ones.”
Patting his trim but now slightly regrown tummy, Snively adds, “Now let us see what business the prince has with us, and if he perhaps might be able to help me with my research on freeing my friend Whiff here,” tapping his bubbling pipe as a says that last part.
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
At the party:
Otto, focusing on the rod, and the display, you notice that there is a hidden keyhole, behind a small ivory decorative plate that can be pushed aside. As you're about to start working your magic with your own set of thieves' tools, you suddenly hear one of the performers break into loud song outside the door. Choosing the distraction to do what you can, you manage to set the pins in the lock, and as the last one is pushed into place, you hear a clicking sound, confirming to you that the pins are set in place. Just as you're about to try and get around the glass cover though, you hear steps approaching the door!
What do you do?
---------------------------------
Mulligan, you're close enough to hear the conversation between Shae and Professor Templeton. You also overhear the Merchant prince turning toward Shae and answering in a warm tone: "I'm very glad to hear you're eager to return to the lands beyond the city walls. Come now, and let us discuss the details." With that, one of the large guards, who stoically endured all of Mulligan's shenanigans, opens the door to the library.
At the Executioner's Run:
OOC: So sorry, I thought I had responded to this!
As Reng slaps the flat of her axe onto the triceratop's backside, it rapidly whirls around and starts to charge forwards, wild by its inability to shake off its rider. Reng is unable to control the direction, but she spurs the beast on with a second slap, causing the triceratops to shriek like a large wounded bird. The sound is almost drowned out by the racuous cheers and the sounds of incredulity from the masses, who have never seen such a display.
Reng, please roll another athletics check, DC 12 to see whether you can stay on the triceratops, or whether you will fall off!
Faced with a charging triceratops, the remaining wounded panther decides to bolt for one of the sides of the arena, rather than trying to go after the trapped halfling. He in turn is desperately trying to free himself from the trap, and barely manages to do so, but is still scrambling to get back on his feet.
Fang, with the triceratops having turned around and now charging down the pit, what would you like to do? Reng, what is your next course of action?
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
A genuine laugh would leave Shae when Snively would comment on the diet, patting his belly. "You're right. I don't think I could have afforded to lose much more out there." It was true though. It did take them a while to adjust to their life in the wild. And truthfully, their source of protein didn't really come until Fang joined them. He always hunted or fished. Since her return to shore though, Shae wasn't shy of indulging in her fair share of meals, luxuries, and other pleasures as the time allowed. It showed with how she filled out her dress and the way it accentuated her curves and showed off her toned muscles from training.
The professor would bring attention to his pipe. Shae's eyes would lighten up remembering Whiff and how Snively always treated him with respect. He also would have him participate in his magic displays as well. "Ah yes! Whiff!" Shae had even sketched him. She'd smile warmly thinking back to it all. It was only a matter of time they'd hear what the Merchant Prince wanted. "Let's!" She agreed with the Professor before she'd start chewing on her lip. "I think, I may have thought of a thing or two." The scholar would add quietly.
When the Merchant Prince would turn to her with a warm response, she'd fight the reddening of her cheeks. Shae would present him with a confident smile, mischief glinting behind her eyes. "There's only so much excitement to be had within the confines of walls." She'd say to him in passing while being escorted into the study.
just an unstable unicorn.
As a minimum, Otto will pull out his face-paints and pretend to be changing his make-up and using the glass surface as a mirror. If there is sufficient time, and if it looks like a simple matter to just open the glass cover and lift the rod out, then Otto will attempt to do so before the door opens, and slip the rod into his clothes first.
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?