The comfort of anonymity and the cozy confines of the tavern offered Thalion respite from the relentless anxiety that had gripped him since they had arrived. He saw Alden and Nevlav engage the familiar half-elf and the human stranger in conversation so he decides to check out the rest of the bar.
Barring the sight of a particular tiefling or any overly curious guardsmen he then wanders closer to the pit area to see what all the commotion is about.
Yoric will ignore the doctor for now, and heads for Huto with his most charming smile.
”There she is the most beautiful kobold for miles around! They say halflings are naturally brave creatures, but I must admit... I’m always a bit afraid to approach someone so far out of my league. Beauty, intelligence, strength, you’ve got it all and passed it along to your daughters as well. Please, Huto! Allow me to be your establishment’s minstrel for a day or two! I’ll do it practically for free, just room and board is all I ask!”
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Alden, you are able to tell through your investigative training that despite the best efforts of someone to conceal it, there was a mighty struggle in this tavern very recently that ultimately seemed to end with one of the participants dragged out back into the large courtyard behind the bar.
Seeing Alden and Nevlav approach, there is a moment of relief on the druid's face. "You all escaped! You are all the more resourceful than I perhaps credited you," he admits, seemingly reluctantly, but it's clear that he seems happy to see you all. He looks at Keaton and gestures to Alden and Nevlav. "These are two of the band who found me in my hiding place and seemingly kicked all of this off. And this," he nods at Keaton "was my savior following a bit of...unpleasantness here prior to your arrival. I believe he may be of great use to you, if you will take up the cause we spoke about earlier." He scans the crowd at the bar. "I see the elf, who seems to have survived against the odds and his own stupidity, and I see Yoric, thankfully annoying someone else for the moment. Where, pray tell, is Grin?" He looks about anxiously and you can tell the druid was fond of the strange little halfling witch.
Thalion, you notice that the crowd is pretty drunk at the moment, and is a bit boisterous. As you approach the Pit, you can see why. There are sign-ups for the main event -- a battle royale to crown a new Pit Champion. The sign announcing the battle indicates that Derfnor suddenly retired "to parts unknown." The prizes that Huto has put up -- 200 gp for the victor or a "mystery item," have attracted a LOT of attention. You gather from the snippets of conversation you hear that the gold is a fortune for most of the workers here, and you see a lot of people trying to steel themselves into signing up via large quantities of ale.
Yoric Persuasion - 8
Lucky! - 13
Huto shakes a clawed fist at you, Yoric, but you notice the corners of her mouth are turned up into a small smile. "Ugh! Stinky druid told Huto Yoric on his way. Huto would have locked the doors if she knew you were coming so soon. And stay 'way from my daughter. Huto saving her to marry big Dragonborn -- create MANY strong dragon babies."
She considers your request carefully, and looking over the crowd, you see the gears turning in her head. "Last minute tournament drawing many customers. Togs cannot handle bar herself. If Huto help at bar, we need Pit Announcer. You handle duties in Pit, you can stay. Simple -- you announce names, hype them up and declare victories." She leans in close. "Don't stay too long though. Huto had BIG trouble with Goliath cop. Stinky druid and human get rid of him, but he coming back. No know when. You still want stay?"
“Oh this sounds like I can’t leave now! I would never abandon you - or your lovely daughter - to ruffians looking to take advantage of you for their own selfish gains. And while I know you have no trouble at all keeping the interest of men, I’ll be happy to put on some show... for you... andyourdaughter. ” Yoric scoops up a drink from behind the bar and walks off to try to take a breather before his duties begin.
Alden just nods to the newcomer. He turns his attention back to the druid. "We do not have a lot of time before the watch comes. What is our next move in this? Where is at least one of the witches?" He asks hurriedly.
Alden pauses for a moment. "Our plan has changed as well and I need to speak with you alone." he states.
Perhaps if Thalion had heard the druid mention his rampant stupidity he might have actually thought about his next course of action. Perhaps if his head wasn't so stuffed full of pride over his heroic deeds - or villainous misdeeds, depending on one's perspective. Unfortunately he was utterly incapable of turning down the promise of gold and a "mystery item".
"I shall join this tournament and I shall be declared Pit Champion, or my name isn't Thalion Strongb-", he pauses, halfway through a boisterous, shouted challenge to the rest of the participants, but suddenly realizes he was about to loudly announce his name to a packed bar.
"Er, Strongbow! Just Strongbow," he declares with a clearing of his throat and a heroic pose, hands on hips.
"Felix, I tend to agree with this gentleman here. We need to leave soon. I think you said we have until morning, at the most optimistic? I would prefer to be on my way before then."
Keaton takes a long draw on the pipe, studying Alden, "Ah, manners. I am Keaton, a scholar. I've been, for lack of better terminology, conscripted into your group. I will also be helping to deal with these witches, once we have some actual information about them."
(DM, Has this been a short rest? I would like to use Arcane Recovery for spell slots)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Salazar - Human Warlock of the Fiend (1) - The Lucarcian Incident
Shepherd Torrent Brallern Water Genasi Druid (1) - Ekuepool
Celeste Belle - Air Genasi Mutant Blood Hunter (1) - Old West
Nevlav eyes Keaton up and down. The profession of scholar, while honorable and much needed to further education, is not an action oriented one. "A scholar? So you are up to speed on the current situation involving a," the gnome leans in, "sickness."He stands back up, "Or maybe the witches? Or the area we need to head? I am not sure why a scholar would brave such a dangerous endeavor."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
(We'll say its a short rest for Keaton since the...err, fracas since it was probably about an hour between that and the rest of the party's arrival at The Dole. Also, no idea why this post says results were manipulated.)
The half-elf you have come to know as Artur Felix grins at Keaton. "This scholar has some talents the lot of you will be in need if you confront those hags, as I hope you will. And yes, we can certainly talk in private, if you feel more comfortable, Inspector, though I will say the folks here haven proven themselves truer friends than anyone in Yellow Creek in my time there. I trust you have no objections to Professor Crowshield joining us." He stands. "Apparently, the halfling has some pull here, as I was able to get a room here by dropping his name. We can chat there, and I can share all I know about the location of at least two of the witches."
Yoric, Huto rolls her eyes at you exasperated, but at least a little affectionate. Togs pours you a hefty portion of a Dwarven Black Ale and winks at you playfully. "Why you no fight? You look like you could cause trouble too. Togs would fight and WIN if Mama would let her." She sees, patting a small dagger she has on her hips.
Thalion Acrobatics Check: 13
Yoric, your elven companion proves surprisingly dexterous and he is able to handily hop over your leg as he strikes his heroic pose, adding a little flourish to his theatrics. A few of the other potential competitors look a little impressed, and maybe a bit unnerved by Thalion.
Thalion, as you sign up, you notice there are currently 4 combatants signed up not including you. The name immediately ahead of yours is one Petgolor, who you gather is a massive, Firbolg who towers over even your own considerable height. As he watches you sign up, he slaps you on the back hard, laughing.
"Ho, ho ho! Finally, someone who is at least a bit bigger than these shrimps has signed up to fight! You don't look like these cramped city denizens. You look healthy like a good woodlands dweller! I can't wait to knock you on your arse, Weakbow." He drains the two pints of ale in front of him and takes a few swings through the air with his massive paws.
Yoric, the combatants so far (besides Thalion) are:
*Petgolor, a firbolg monk listed as coming from the Redwood Forests
*A shady-looking gnome named Topip Tinkerfitz, who has listed his occupation as "A Little Bit of This, That and the Other."
*A very intimidating looking Hobgoblin soldier who signed his name as Ordorn the Bloodthirsty
*A quiet, scrawny human named Olive Buffon, who seems like she may be a teenager. She's sitting in the corner sipping a water and seems like she has no business being in a place like this.
“Nevlav... you should get in on this. Whatever, just make up your mind soon.” Yoric tilts back his beer before jumping up on a table.
“LADIES AND GENTLEMEN AND THE REST OF YOU UGLY ARSEHOLES! GET YOUR COIN READY, BECAUSE TONIGHT WE’VE GOT A MOST EXCELLENT SHOW TO SEE!”
He flourishes through a few notes on his harp - of all things.
”And so we make our introductions... you’ve heard him now, Strongbow, the Strong Foe! His elvish lineage has taught him endurance and quickness beyond mortal man!
- Topip Tinkerfitz! Quick as lightning are his fists! Man of mystery, and man of action! He’s the Top(ip)!
- Petgolor, the Bold Firbolg! Big as a barn, and he’s got a beef with today’s fighters!
- Ordorn the Bloodthirsty! They say he’s got a soft side, but there ain’t a fighter yet who’s found it!
- And lastly, Olive Buffon! Don’t let her appearance fool you. This teenage girl breaks little boys’ hearts and big men’s faces.
Let’s see who comes out on top! Starting with Strongbow and Topip Tinkerfitz!”
"Thank you, Felix. Yes, I admit that I am new to violence, but not to hardship. My studies have led me far and wide, putting foot to many a dusty road. Also, as Felix noted, I do have a couple tricks up my sleeve that can help the rest of you deal with any potential enemies, though as I was mentioning to Felix earlier, I'm sorely lacking in ways of hurting them directly. Ah well." He takes a drag on the pipe, clearly using it as an opportunity to pause and think.
"The plague has been unavoidable. Felix here has mentioned to me some of the causes and a potential way of dealing with it. It's an interesting curse for true. Felix has outlined his plan for dealing with it, which I believe has merit."
(Britton, could you please message me anything that I need to know that we didn't cover in our one-on-one RP?)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Salazar - Human Warlock of the Fiend (1) - The Lucarcian Incident
Shepherd Torrent Brallern Water Genasi Druid (1) - Ekuepool
Celeste Belle - Air Genasi Mutant Blood Hunter (1) - Old West
"Alright" Alden will say as he takes a seat. Alden will lower his voice and say to Felix, "Our plans have changed a bit. Could you get into the prison undetected using your shape shifting ability?" he asks.
Thalion jumps slightly at the sound of his friend's voice booming out his name and the names of his opponents. Hoping to save face, he stands tall and flexes the arm he uses to pull back his longbow's taut bowstring.
As his foes were announced one by one he feels his anxiety grow. Two of them were hulking brutes; he'd taken on the likes of firbolgs and hobgoblins before, but usually with the element of surprise and several dozen feet between he and his foe. Only the brief lessons from the old aarakocra in the prison helped calm him for the tournament to come.
Artur Felix looks at Alden in unabashed surprise. "I thought your friend the elf was the idiot of the group. You want me to break into Valance Gaol? You do realize that I just ran from there this morning and that you and your friends spent the greater part of an entire day there? That was not the plan. The plan was...uhh...ummm."All of you there see Felix struggle with what the actual plan was. "I don't know the plan. It was either find Admiral Garrock, or break into the palace and cure the King, or go confront the hags, not TO WALK INTO A BLOODY JAIL." The druid makes a forcible effort to calm down and he looks at Keaton, then Nevlav, and finally Alden.
"Any delay will risk the very existence of this kingdom. Tell him, gnome -- whatever it is you think you want, this is not worth it."
Thalion and Yoric, while as the two of you move down into the Pit, you see the other fighters, all of whom seem to be doing their own preparation rituals. Petgolor is on what you estimate to be his 4th or 5th pint that you've seen him down since you first saw him, and he is humming a song joyfully. He is twirling two large truncheons in his massive forearms.
Topip is talking to a female gnome, and smirks when he hears that you are his first opponent. "Oi, baby, put another 200 gp on me. I think my odds just got a whole lot better." He pulls a bullwhip from a pouch on his hip and uncurls it -- you notice that there is a very nasty barb on the end. He walks over to Yoric and slips you 5 gp. "I like the cut of your jib, mate. Are you for hire? I could use a halfling of your...talents for some of my other enterprises."
Ordorn the Hobgoblin is very carefully dipping his fingers into some sort of red pain and is smearing it all over his eyes and bare chest. He makes eye contact with Olive the teenager and grins at her through his shattered teeth. "You're pretty. Not for much longer, love."
Finally, and most bizarrely, Olive is totally ignoring the Hobgoblin and looks to be having an argument with herself. You overhear snatches of the conversation. "Yes, I understand that something like this is unbecoming of one of your acolytes." There is a pause, but you hear no other voices speaking. "Well, what do you expect me to do? Just because you're like, 2,500 years old and don't need to eat any more doesn't mean I don't need to buy a meal every for myself once in a while. Look, we'll win this tournament then we can get back to grinding your enemies' bones into dust."Another pause. "No, I DON'T think the halfling was flirting. Its his job. Gods, you are SO embarrassing.
As Yoric announces the first match, Thalion and Topip step into the Pit -- which in reality is more like a basement with a large rectangular ring that looks like it may have been blue at one time, but now looks to be a stained purple from blood, alcohol, and and any number of other fluids, bodily and otherwise.
Most of the bar has come down to the pit now, and Togs joins you, Yoric. "Togs hopes your friend knows what he is doing. No shame in quitting. Actually, it is BIG shame, but not dumb."
(Thalion, you can go ahead and make your first attack -- this round is one v one matches, so no need for initiative.)
Thalion follows the other fighters into the not-so aptly named "pit" and scoffs. Not only was the arena merely a rectangular hole in the ground, his competition left much to be desired as well. All except for the teenage girl who, frankly, frightened him.
Taking position at his side of the pit he prepares his own preferred weapon with a smug smirk. "A whip? I've survived the lashes and barbs of Valance's jailers before and they were slightly larger than you," he says confidently.
In an audible whisper he speaks in elvish, casting Hunter's Mark on his opponent before he calmly draws an arrow, knocks and looses it in one fluid, practiced motion at the gnome.
Attack: 14 Damage: 15
Regardless of whether his aim is true he drops his bow onto the blood-soaked ground and draws a shortsword. He would have to close the distance between them to escape the sting of Topip's whip.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Alden
Alden eyes narrow a bit but he says nothing, allowing Artur his tantrum. Alden will take a silent breath, exhale then say:
"First, we are flying from the seat of our arse right now with the very kingdom we live in wanting to stretch our necks all because an issue, created far before mine and my companions time, that was allowed to progress to the very point in which we are facing at this time. Second, If I could do this without having to ask for your assistance I would have done so all ready but, it seems only you hold the expertise needed for this task." Alden pauses.
"We are at a point" Alden continues, "in this, that our small group can not accomplish all that needs done on our own. The Admiral has been confined to the prison and his time, like so many others, is short and he is in no position to help us."
Alden pauses and takes a breath before continuing.
"In the prison, in a private section he has set up, is one that has the influence among the people and, if you save his life, he will do what he can to aid us in our cause. The King is not going to do it. The Admiral is not going to do it and the Committee sure to the 9 hells is not going to do it. What I need for you to do is use those skills and talents you have and make your way into that prison and save the Crime Boss Yualkid's life."
Alden waits for a moment, allowing Artur to get all red faced and angry and then he will say:
"Like it or not, Yualkid has the power to help us and has agreed to do so." Alden says. Alden pauses once more then with a sly smile says: "Plus, once we are off to start this next part of this ordeal, the safest place for you to be is at Yualkid's side instead of running to and fro hoping to avoid the teifling's minions."
Artur sits back in his chair and looks at you curiously. "Your reasoning is...not terrible, Inspector. If I am not immediately caught and tortured by Commissioner Capet, and am able to save the Black Dragonborn's life, I can see where it would be advantageous to eradicating this threat." There is a tremendous cheer, as something in the pit had caused the crowd below to go crazy. The druid looks that way, then back at Alden and Nevlav.
"I shall go first thing in the morning. You all should depart in the morning as well, including Professor Crowshield here. If that Goliath finds any of you when he returns, it will be bad for all concerned, including our host. Now, as to the hags. The youngest and least powerful of the three sisters dwells in the Redwood Forest just to the south of Valance. I believe the elf hails from there. He should be able to help you find the corrupted glade where she dwells. The second sister lives in the swamps outside the resort city of Larouche, at the very southern tip of the country. As for the oldest of the three crones, I have no idea where she can be found. Its said she is the leader of three and as old as the continent herself. Perhaps when you deal with one or more of the others, some clues will present themselves. Now, if there's nothing else, I really should work on a cure for our new...benefactor."You can tell he has mixed feelings about utilizing the elements of the cure for someone so notorious as Nesciar Yualkid, but your persuasive case had swayed him, Alden.
In thePIT
THUNK! Thalion's arrow finds its mark, hard, slamming into the gnome right at chest level and making such a loud sickening sound that everyone around the Pit falls silent or gasps. Immediately though, there is a HUGE cheer for Strongbow, the crowd impressed by how true his aim was. Even Topip seems not to have expected exactly what was coming and he staggers around for a minute -- Thalion, as you try to close the gap, you can see that his eyes are wet from the pain, and he seems to be on the ropes already. He recovers quickly, though he still seems shaky, and he backs away and lashes his whip at you with a thundering crack.
Attack: 8 Damage: 8
Thalion -- Errk's teachings come to mind as you see the whip lash out as tohugh in slow motion, and you tuck and roll to the side, neatly avoiding the attack and setting yourself up to rush the beleagurered gnome.
There was a brief moment when Thalion could see the pained bewilderment in the gnome's eyes as the arrow bit deeply into his flesh and he felt remorse. This gnome wasn't a lackey of the state trying to imprison or kill him or a logger destroying his forest home. But then just as the elf began to hesitate the small thunderclap of the whip cracking next to him brought him back to the reality of the pit-fight he was embroiled in and he deftly avoids the attack.
Errk wouldn't hesitate, he thought. Besides, the winnings could aid their mission and this cocky creature was far too confident in himself. Coming out of his roll he flourishes his shortsword and lunges the tip smoothly toward his foe.
The comfort of anonymity and the cozy confines of the tavern offered Thalion respite from the relentless anxiety that had gripped him since they had arrived. He saw Alden and Nevlav engage the familiar half-elf and the human stranger in conversation so he decides to check out the rest of the bar.
Perception:9
Barring the sight of a particular tiefling or any overly curious guardsmen he then wanders closer to the pit area to see what all the commotion is about.
Yoric will ignore the doctor for now, and heads for Huto with his most charming smile.
”There she is the most beautiful kobold for miles around! They say halflings are naturally brave creatures, but I must admit... I’m always a bit afraid to approach someone so far out of my league. Beauty, intelligence, strength, you’ve got it all and passed it along to your daughters as well. Please, Huto! Allow me to be your establishment’s minstrel for a day or two! I’ll do it practically for free, just room and board is all I ask!”
Paladin - warforged - orange
Alden, you are able to tell through your investigative training that despite the best efforts of someone to conceal it, there was a mighty struggle in this tavern very recently that ultimately seemed to end with one of the participants dragged out back into the large courtyard behind the bar.
Seeing Alden and Nevlav approach, there is a moment of relief on the druid's face. "You all escaped! You are all the more resourceful than I perhaps credited you," he admits, seemingly reluctantly, but it's clear that he seems happy to see you all. He looks at Keaton and gestures to Alden and Nevlav. "These are two of the band who found me in my hiding place and seemingly kicked all of this off. And this," he nods at Keaton "was my savior following a bit of...unpleasantness here prior to your arrival. I believe he may be of great use to you, if you will take up the cause we spoke about earlier." He scans the crowd at the bar. "I see the elf, who seems to have survived against the odds and his own stupidity, and I see Yoric, thankfully annoying someone else for the moment. Where, pray tell, is Grin?" He looks about anxiously and you can tell the druid was fond of the strange little halfling witch.
Thalion, you notice that the crowd is pretty drunk at the moment, and is a bit boisterous. As you approach the Pit, you can see why. There are sign-ups for the main event -- a battle royale to crown a new Pit Champion. The sign announcing the battle indicates that Derfnor suddenly retired "to parts unknown." The prizes that Huto has put up -- 200 gp for the victor or a "mystery item," have attracted a LOT of attention. You gather from the snippets of conversation you hear that the gold is a fortune for most of the workers here, and you see a lot of people trying to steel themselves into signing up via large quantities of ale.
Yoric Persuasion - 8
Lucky! - 13
Huto shakes a clawed fist at you, Yoric, but you notice the corners of her mouth are turned up into a small smile. "Ugh! Stinky druid told Huto Yoric on his way. Huto would have locked the doors if she knew you were coming so soon. And stay 'way from my daughter. Huto saving her to marry big Dragonborn -- create MANY strong dragon babies."
She considers your request carefully, and looking over the crowd, you see the gears turning in her head. "Last minute tournament drawing many customers. Togs cannot handle bar herself. If Huto help at bar, we need Pit Announcer. You handle duties in Pit, you can stay. Simple -- you announce names, hype them up and declare victories." She leans in close. "Don't stay too long though. Huto had BIG trouble with Goliath cop. Stinky druid and human get rid of him, but he coming back. No know when. You still want stay?"
“Oh this sounds like I can’t leave now! I would never abandon you - or your lovely daughter - to ruffians looking to take advantage of you for their own selfish gains. And while I know you have no trouble at all keeping the interest of men, I’ll be happy to put on some show... for you... andyourdaughter. ” Yoric scoops up a drink from behind the bar and walks off to try to take a breather before his duties begin.
Paladin - warforged - orange
Alden
Alden just nods to the newcomer. He turns his attention back to the druid. "We do not have a lot of time before the watch comes. What is our next move in this? Where is at least one of the witches?" He asks hurriedly.
Alden pauses for a moment. "Our plan has changed as well and I need to speak with you alone." he states.
Perhaps if Thalion had heard the druid mention his rampant stupidity he might have actually thought about his next course of action. Perhaps if his head wasn't so stuffed full of pride over his heroic deeds - or villainous misdeeds, depending on one's perspective. Unfortunately he was utterly incapable of turning down the promise of gold and a "mystery item".
"I shall join this tournament and I shall be declared Pit Champion, or my name isn't Thalion Strongb-", he pauses, halfway through a boisterous, shouted challenge to the rest of the participants, but suddenly realizes he was about to loudly announce his name to a packed bar.
"Er, Strongbow! Just Strongbow," he declares with a clearing of his throat and a heroic pose, hands on hips.
Can Yoric attempt to trip Thalion before he speaks up that loud? He’s going to shout out his own intro for him if he can manage it. 😂
Athletics 17
Paladin - warforged - orange
"Felix, I tend to agree with this gentleman here. We need to leave soon. I think you said we have until morning, at the most optimistic? I would prefer to be on my way before then."
Keaton takes a long draw on the pipe, studying Alden, "Ah, manners. I am Keaton, a scholar. I've been, for lack of better terminology, conscripted into your group. I will also be helping to deal with these witches, once we have some actual information about them."
(DM, Has this been a short rest? I would like to use Arcane Recovery for spell slots)
Salazar - Human Warlock of the Fiend (1) - The Lucarcian Incident
Shepherd Torrent Brallern Water Genasi Druid (1) - Ekuepool
Celeste Belle - Air Genasi Mutant Blood Hunter (1) - Old West
DM for A Waterdhavian Heist
Alden
Alden will give Keaton a short nod.
"Grin has gone off on her own it appears." is the only thing he will add to his last statement.
Nevlav eyes Keaton up and down. The profession of scholar, while honorable and much needed to further education, is not an action oriented one. "A scholar? So you are up to speed on the current situation involving a," the gnome leans in, "sickness."He stands back up, "Or maybe the witches? Or the area we need to head? I am not sure why a scholar would brave such a dangerous endeavor."
(We'll say its a short rest for Keaton since the...err, fracas since it was probably about an hour between that and the rest of the party's arrival at The Dole. Also, no idea why this post says results were manipulated.)
The half-elf you have come to know as Artur Felix grins at Keaton. "This scholar has some talents the lot of you will be in need if you confront those hags, as I hope you will. And yes, we can certainly talk in private, if you feel more comfortable, Inspector, though I will say the folks here haven proven themselves truer friends than anyone in Yellow Creek in my time there. I trust you have no objections to Professor Crowshield joining us." He stands. "Apparently, the halfling has some pull here, as I was able to get a room here by dropping his name. We can chat there, and I can share all I know about the location of at least two of the witches."
Yoric, Huto rolls her eyes at you exasperated, but at least a little affectionate. Togs pours you a hefty portion of a Dwarven Black Ale and winks at you playfully. "Why you no fight? You look like you could cause trouble too. Togs would fight and WIN if Mama would let her." She sees, patting a small dagger she has on her hips.
Thalion Acrobatics Check: 13
Yoric, your elven companion proves surprisingly dexterous and he is able to handily hop over your leg as he strikes his heroic pose, adding a little flourish to his theatrics. A few of the other potential competitors look a little impressed, and maybe a bit unnerved by Thalion.
Thalion, as you sign up, you notice there are currently 4 combatants signed up not including you. The name immediately ahead of yours is one Petgolor, who you gather is a massive, Firbolg who towers over even your own considerable height. As he watches you sign up, he slaps you on the back hard, laughing.
"Ho, ho ho! Finally, someone who is at least a bit bigger than these shrimps has signed up to fight! You don't look like these cramped city denizens. You look healthy like a good woodlands dweller! I can't wait to knock you on your arse, Weakbow." He drains the two pints of ale in front of him and takes a few swings through the air with his massive paws.
Yoric, the combatants so far (besides Thalion) are:
*Petgolor, a firbolg monk listed as coming from the Redwood Forests
*A shady-looking gnome named Topip Tinkerfitz, who has listed his occupation as "A Little Bit of This, That and the Other."
*A very intimidating looking Hobgoblin soldier who signed his name as Ordorn the Bloodthirsty
*A quiet, scrawny human named Olive Buffon, who seems like she may be a teenager. She's sitting in the corner sipping a water and seems like she has no business being in a place like this.
“Nevlav... you should get in on this. Whatever, just make up your mind soon.” Yoric tilts back his beer before jumping up on a table.
“LADIES AND GENTLEMEN AND THE REST OF YOU UGLY ARSEHOLES! GET YOUR COIN READY, BECAUSE TONIGHT WE’VE GOT A MOST EXCELLENT SHOW TO SEE!”
He flourishes through a few notes on his harp - of all things.
”And so we make our introductions... you’ve heard him now, Strongbow, the Strong Foe! His elvish lineage has taught him endurance and quickness beyond mortal man!
- Topip Tinkerfitz! Quick as lightning are his fists! Man of mystery, and man of action! He’s the Top(ip)!
- Petgolor, the Bold Firbolg! Big as a barn, and he’s got a beef with today’s fighters!
- Ordorn the Bloodthirsty! They say he’s got a soft side, but there ain’t a fighter yet who’s found it!
- And lastly, Olive Buffon! Don’t let her appearance fool you. This teenage girl breaks little boys’ hearts and big men’s faces.
Let’s see who comes out on top! Starting with Strongbow and Topip Tinkerfitz!”
Paladin - warforged - orange
"Thank you, Felix. Yes, I admit that I am new to violence, but not to hardship. My studies have led me far and wide, putting foot to many a dusty road. Also, as Felix noted, I do have a couple tricks up my sleeve that can help the rest of you deal with any potential enemies, though as I was mentioning to Felix earlier, I'm sorely lacking in ways of hurting them directly. Ah well." He takes a drag on the pipe, clearly using it as an opportunity to pause and think.
"The plague has been unavoidable. Felix here has mentioned to me some of the causes and a potential way of dealing with it. It's an interesting curse for true. Felix has outlined his plan for dealing with it, which I believe has merit."
(Britton, could you please message me anything that I need to know that we didn't cover in our one-on-one RP?)
Salazar - Human Warlock of the Fiend (1) - The Lucarcian Incident
Shepherd Torrent Brallern Water Genasi Druid (1) - Ekuepool
Celeste Belle - Air Genasi Mutant Blood Hunter (1) - Old West
DM for A Waterdhavian Heist
Alden
"Alright" Alden will say as he takes a seat. Alden will lower his voice and say to Felix, "Our plans have changed a bit. Could you get into the prison undetected using your shape shifting ability?" he asks.
Thalion jumps slightly at the sound of his friend's voice booming out his name and the names of his opponents. Hoping to save face, he stands tall and flexes the arm he uses to pull back his longbow's taut bowstring.
As his foes were announced one by one he feels his anxiety grow. Two of them were hulking brutes; he'd taken on the likes of firbolgs and hobgoblins before, but usually with the element of surprise and several dozen feet between he and his foe. Only the brief lessons from the old aarakocra in the prison helped calm him for the tournament to come.
Artur Felix looks at Alden in unabashed surprise. "I thought your friend the elf was the idiot of the group. You want me to break into Valance Gaol? You do realize that I just ran from there this morning and that you and your friends spent the greater part of an entire day there? That was not the plan. The plan was...uhh...ummm." All of you there see Felix struggle with what the actual plan was. "I don't know the plan. It was either find Admiral Garrock, or break into the palace and cure the King, or go confront the hags, not TO WALK INTO A BLOODY JAIL." The druid makes a forcible effort to calm down and he looks at Keaton, then Nevlav, and finally Alden.
"Any delay will risk the very existence of this kingdom. Tell him, gnome -- whatever it is you think you want, this is not worth it."
Thalion and Yoric, while as the two of you move down into the Pit, you see the other fighters, all of whom seem to be doing their own preparation rituals. Petgolor is on what you estimate to be his 4th or 5th pint that you've seen him down since you first saw him, and he is humming a song joyfully. He is twirling two large truncheons in his massive forearms.
Topip is talking to a female gnome, and smirks when he hears that you are his first opponent. "Oi, baby, put another 200 gp on me. I think my odds just got a whole lot better." He pulls a bullwhip from a pouch on his hip and uncurls it -- you notice that there is a very nasty barb on the end. He walks over to Yoric and slips you 5 gp. "I like the cut of your jib, mate. Are you for hire? I could use a halfling of your...talents for some of my other enterprises."
Ordorn the Hobgoblin is very carefully dipping his fingers into some sort of red pain and is smearing it all over his eyes and bare chest. He makes eye contact with Olive the teenager and grins at her through his shattered teeth. "You're pretty. Not for much longer, love."
Finally, and most bizarrely, Olive is totally ignoring the Hobgoblin and looks to be having an argument with herself. You overhear snatches of the conversation. "Yes, I understand that something like this is unbecoming of one of your acolytes." There is a pause, but you hear no other voices speaking. "Well, what do you expect me to do? Just because you're like, 2,500 years old and don't need to eat any more doesn't mean I don't need to buy a meal every for myself once in a while. Look, we'll win this tournament then we can get back to grinding your enemies' bones into dust."Another pause. "No, I DON'T think the halfling was flirting. Its his job. Gods, you are SO embarrassing.
As Yoric announces the first match, Thalion and Topip step into the Pit -- which in reality is more like a basement with a large rectangular ring that looks like it may have been blue at one time, but now looks to be a stained purple from blood, alcohol, and and any number of other fluids, bodily and otherwise.
Most of the bar has come down to the pit now, and Togs joins you, Yoric. "Togs hopes your friend knows what he is doing. No shame in quitting. Actually, it is BIG shame, but not dumb."
(Thalion, you can go ahead and make your first attack -- this round is one v one matches, so no need for initiative.)
Thalion follows the other fighters into the not-so aptly named "pit" and scoffs. Not only was the arena merely a rectangular hole in the ground, his competition left much to be desired as well. All except for the teenage girl who, frankly, frightened him.
Taking position at his side of the pit he prepares his own preferred weapon with a smug smirk. "A whip? I've survived the lashes and barbs of Valance's jailers before and they were slightly larger than you," he says confidently.
In an audible whisper he speaks in elvish, casting Hunter's Mark on his opponent before he calmly draws an arrow, knocks and looses it in one fluid, practiced motion at the gnome.
Attack: 14 Damage: 15
Regardless of whether his aim is true he drops his bow onto the blood-soaked ground and draws a shortsword. He would have to close the distance between them to escape the sting of Topip's whip.
Alden
Alden eyes narrow a bit but he says nothing, allowing Artur his tantrum. Alden will take a silent breath, exhale then say:
"First, we are flying from the seat of our arse right now with the very kingdom we live in wanting to stretch our necks all because an issue, created far before mine and my companions time, that was allowed to progress to the very point in which we are facing at this time. Second, If I could do this without having to ask for your assistance I would have done so all ready but, it seems only you hold the expertise needed for this task." Alden pauses.
"We are at a point" Alden continues, "in this, that our small group can not accomplish all that needs done on our own. The Admiral has been confined to the prison and his time, like so many others, is short and he is in no position to help us."
Alden pauses and takes a breath before continuing.
"In the prison, in a private section he has set up, is one that has the influence among the people and, if you save his life, he will do what he can to aid us in our cause. The King is not going to do it. The Admiral is not going to do it and the Committee sure to the 9 hells is not going to do it. What I need for you to do is use those skills and talents you have and make your way into that prison and save the Crime Boss Yualkid's life."
Alden waits for a moment, allowing Artur to get all red faced and angry and then he will say:
"Like it or not, Yualkid has the power to help us and has agreed to do so." Alden says. Alden pauses once more then with a sly smile says: "Plus, once we are off to start this next part of this ordeal, the safest place for you to be is at Yualkid's side instead of running to and fro hoping to avoid the teifling's minions."
Persuasion: 24
Artur sits back in his chair and looks at you curiously. "Your reasoning is...not terrible, Inspector. If I am not immediately caught and tortured by Commissioner Capet, and am able to save the Black Dragonborn's life, I can see where it would be advantageous to eradicating this threat." There is a tremendous cheer, as something in the pit had caused the crowd below to go crazy. The druid looks that way, then back at Alden and Nevlav.
"I shall go first thing in the morning. You all should depart in the morning as well, including Professor Crowshield here. If that Goliath finds any of you when he returns, it will be bad for all concerned, including our host. Now, as to the hags. The youngest and least powerful of the three sisters dwells in the Redwood Forest just to the south of Valance. I believe the elf hails from there. He should be able to help you find the corrupted glade where she dwells. The second sister lives in the swamps outside the resort city of Larouche, at the very southern tip of the country. As for the oldest of the three crones, I have no idea where she can be found. Its said she is the leader of three and as old as the continent herself. Perhaps when you deal with one or more of the others, some clues will present themselves. Now, if there's nothing else, I really should work on a cure for our new...benefactor." You can tell he has mixed feelings about utilizing the elements of the cure for someone so notorious as Nesciar Yualkid, but your persuasive case had swayed him, Alden.
In the PIT
THUNK! Thalion's arrow finds its mark, hard, slamming into the gnome right at chest level and making such a loud sickening sound that everyone around the Pit falls silent or gasps. Immediately though, there is a HUGE cheer for Strongbow, the crowd impressed by how true his aim was. Even Topip seems not to have expected exactly what was coming and he staggers around for a minute -- Thalion, as you try to close the gap, you can see that his eyes are wet from the pain, and he seems to be on the ropes already. He recovers quickly, though he still seems shaky, and he backs away and lashes his whip at you with a thundering crack.
Attack: 8 Damage: 8
Thalion -- Errk's teachings come to mind as you see the whip lash out as tohugh in slow motion, and you tuck and roll to the side, neatly avoiding the attack and setting yourself up to rush the beleagurered gnome.
There was a brief moment when Thalion could see the pained bewilderment in the gnome's eyes as the arrow bit deeply into his flesh and he felt remorse. This gnome wasn't a lackey of the state trying to imprison or kill him or a logger destroying his forest home. But then just as the elf began to hesitate the small thunderclap of the whip cracking next to him brought him back to the reality of the pit-fight he was embroiled in and he deftly avoids the attack.
Errk wouldn't hesitate, he thought. Besides, the winnings could aid their mission and this cocky creature was far too confident in himself. Coming out of his roll he flourishes his shortsword and lunges the tip smoothly toward his foe.
Attack: 18 Damage: Unable to parse dice roll.