Group 3: Bracken

[Sagar]

From your discussions with the old man and others, and from your earlier stay there, you have a good idea of what Bracken is like. It is a good sized town of 8-10,000 people. Most don't live IN town, just in the surrounding area. Bracken itself is on an island in the middle of the Bracken river. It is a walled town with merchants and goods mostly inside and people living mostly outside. (The island isn't all that big).

The city was first founded by "King" Bracken - a minor noble who "discovered" the river and the island and started the original settlement. The line of Bracken's ruled wisely and well until the reign of "King" Bracken the Second who was killed with his army in the "Battle of the Dead End Canyon" to a host of kobolds fully half his number. "King" Bracken the Third lost the town in a poker game. Since then, the Bracken family line has faded into obscurity and only the town and river bear testimony to their past.

The Felstaff family has "owned" the town for the past 4 generations. They were officially recognized as nobles of the area by the first Baron of Diert. They have always been troublesome and overly independant, but never quite insubordinate. The town and the surrounding area, while full of good and honest people, have become a bit renown for their "quirky characters". The party did not encounter many of them during the competition - you were all a bit busy and focused. Perhaps this time you will, though.

Note: Most of the competition occured outside the city proper last time you were here. If you went into the city in plate, it was as part of the competition activities and normal rules didn't apply to contestants.

Because of your discussions with others and your past activities here, I will assume you have at least a passing familiarity with the town. Because of this, I'll give you a map of the area. If you want to go somewhere, please tell me the number of the building you want and I will tell you what you find there and, if requested, give you an idea of what you see on the way.

Because of your discussions with the old man, you know that the church you want is on the opposite side of town from the entrance (#19). You also have a basic idea of the floorplan and you know where the library is and have a pretty good idea where in the library the book should be. This map be available when required.

map to be attached in a few minutes.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Brun thinks we should first look to liquidate our assets (sell what we came to sell) and get a feel for the informal "talk" that flows through towns like this.

[Asharad]

yeah, I'd like to look for any magic daggers that might be floating around.

Also, I'll come up with a plan here in just a bit to stake out the temple.

Assume I am using streetwise to find out what is up in town and to check for any news of the temple.

[DinbinFanfoom]

"Find me za good potion seller, Fandango." Brun urges. She's not sure intimidation is the best way to get a deal.

[Lycos]

"Find me za good potion seller, Fandango." Brun urges. She's not sure intimidation is the best way to get a deal.

Yeah, Brun and I need some new healing potions.

On second thought, we might not want Fandango going out on his own with the attacks we received in coming here. I think we should have at least a contingent of folks close by just in case.

[Sagar]

The road circles around and enters Bracken from the west. You pass through the village on the way towards the gates. Most of the village is residential. (The lettered builidings) closest to the gates are businesses or official buildings: Inns, markets, Blacksmith, coachline, sheriff and cavalry offices. There is a large open air market along and south of the road leading to the gates. There is also a small queue of people at the gate waiting to go in. These look to be a mix of travelers, merchants and local people.

Do you wish to do anything in the village or head to the gates?

[Lycos]

If we need to sell here, this is our stop. If we can get better prices in the city then we'll move on.

[Sagar]

Insight: The open air markets here sell more pedestrian goods than those you possess. (Think flea market / Farmer's markets). You assume you could do better inside the town.

[Sagar]

I'll pause to see if anyone else wants to stop here before progressing.

[Shiz]

Move on.

What skill is used in haggling? Who should be our agent? We should not split up, though. Less likely to get swindled and/or jumped if we are obviously together.

We will look for an inn on the rough side, but comfortable.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Move on to the "city".

[Zyzzyx]

Solak seems interested in a couple vendors, and hangs back for a moment.

"Go on, I'll catch up quick enough."

(PM to Sagar for Solak's 'off-screen' actions)

[Shiz]

Trask will be very conscientious but not conspicuous about looking for people who might be "interested" in us. We are going to be here for a bit so I don't want to just drop 10 Perception rolls in Sagar's lap. Sagar might as well roll secretly when and if it makes sense.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Brun will find a tavern.

[EricStratton]

Amaril will go with those who are going to sell (maybe Intimidate can be used for haggling :D). He'll keep an eye out for a magical Rod but isn't expecting much.

[Sagar]

After waiting at the gate for about 15 minutes, you finally get to the front of the line. A bored but nice looking guard stops you and says, "What is your purpose and destination in the City of Bracken?" The guard looks pointedly at your pack animals loaded with goods. You see quite a few other guards in the general gate area.

[Shiz]

This might be a skill challenge, guys. Someone with speaking skills talk and be specific!

[Lycos]

I'll address the guard.

We are here to do some business and pleasure. We have some goods to trade and we have been longing for some good entertainment and ale that Bracken has in stock. (+12 Diplomacy)

[Sagar]

The guard smiles at you "You'll find both here and a place to sell you're goods, I'd wager."
"I take it this is your first time to Bracken. Well, that will be 2 gp for a one time entry fee."

[Shiz]

/whisper to Baladir "guards don't usually collect taxes, do they?"

[Sagar]

"That's 2 gold each. And one gold per animal"

The guard pauses, looking at you more closely.

He speaks again, in a hushed tone, "Hey, aren't you guys the young heros? They guys that won the tournament?"

"Wow! I can't believe "I" was on duty when you guys got here! This is GREAT!

"Look, I gotta turn in the money for each chit I give out but I can, you know, skip the fee for the horses."

He winks at you conspiratorially.

Raising his voice, he says, in a bored sounding guard voice, "If you can't afford the entrance fee, you cannot be allowed into the city."

[Shiz]

"Pay the man what we owe, Baladir. If you can recommend a clean but not too expensive tavern, we will buy you a round this evening. Maybe some of your guys, too."

[EricStratton]

Amaril whispers to Trask, "Great, we're recognized right off the bat. Getting around unnoticed might be a problem."

[Lycos]

Baladir quickly pays the guard. He asks him his name. Uses his name in the rest of the conversation. Also, Baladir will ask him for a tavern recommendation, clean and affordable is key.

Thank him, and tell him to stop by for a drink or two when we get settled in.

[Sagar]

The guard says his name is Berashak. He politely takes the 12gp and hand you 6 wooden tokens. He tells you the Red Roc Inn is just around the corner (#1 on the map) and is a nice Inn and very popular. Another good, but less crowded, place is the Flying Falcon Inn (#20).

If you want something a bit rowdier, the Staggering Drag Inn (#48) is relatively safe.

He thanks you for the drink offer, but he cannot fraternize or he might lose his job.

The growing line behind you is getting restive.

He glances at them and then wishes you good fortunes in Bracken.

"Oh! He says, Almost forgot." He drops into a monotone recital of stuff he has obviously repeated a bazillion times before.

"WelcometoBracken, abeautifulplacetovisit. Enjoyyourtimeherebutrememberno platearmorisallowedin thecitywithoutapermit. Magicuseisforbiddenunlessapermitisobtainedinadvanc e. Permitsmaybeobtainedduringnormalbusinesshoursfromt heMagistrate" (#37).
"ThankyouandhaveaGREATvisitinBracken"

[DinbinFanfoom]

Brun asks to see the token taken from the dead bandit. She assumes it will be the same as the one the guards gave us. This could mean the group was based out of Bracken.

[Lycos]

We'll move along. I think we'll be going to the Flying Falcon Inn (#20)? Is that ok with everyone?

[Sagar]

The tokens are identical except the bandit's is a bit worn.

Do you want individual rooms, all together, or something in between?

[EricStratton]

Flying Falcon Inn is fine. Individual rooms.

[Shiz]

Before we go, I ask the guard if the tokens get us in and out free of charge now.

[Sagar]

The guard is busy with other people coming in.
You do remember him saying the fee was a one time, first entry tax and you understood the token to allow entry in the future.

You proceed to the Flying Falcon Inn. You are pleasantly surprised. Not only is it a nice place, it's reasonably priced and it actually has a view of the back side of the Temple of Pelor. (19)

Prices are:
Nice Single Room: 8 sp
Meals (common but good): 2sp per meal.
Stabling and board for horses: 2sp per horse per day.

Fancier meals can be arranged. Prices determined by the complexity of the meal.

The Falcon is run buy two retired fighters, Marish the Mangy and Loran the Daring. Marish, while more than a bit disheveled, seems to be a decent innkeeper.

[Shiz]

What about double rooms? Any rooms from which Fandango can come and go unseen?

[Sagar]

Double rooms are 5sp per person per night.

There are two rooms with windows and reasonable access to the ground. While not "unseen" exactly, the street on that side is less busy and he should have a chance to pass stealthily. One room is a solo. The other room is luxury and more expensive.

[Shiz]

Let's take those two for all of us. That way one of us can keep watch in each room.

[Sagar]

In the solo room, there is room for 1 person.

The other room, the luxury room, is 5 gold per night. You have room for 2 in the main bedroom (1 bed) and servants rooms for 2 more. The price included upgraded food.
The 5th person, I guess, could sleep in the common area, but that might look funny.

There is another solo room that has a good view of the back of the church, if you want that for the 6th person.

[Shiz]

We have 6 people and we don't want to split up too much, but 5gp per night is nuts.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Meh, Brun can take the solo, she'll chip in on the 5g suite too. She doesn't care. If anything happens, you'll hear it. And not that she has anything against co-ed, but it might raise fewer eyebrows.

[Shiz]

Solo is probably best for Fan so he can come and go discretely, but once again, I am up for letting Bal decide

[Lycos]

We shouldn't be here too long, so I'm ok with the 5 gp room too. We're chipping in, so it's not that bad for 4 of us to be in the room. And the 6th person should have a room too. All the rooms sound fine as is.

[Shiz]

So we get the 5gp room and rent another double. Brun and Amaril will share the double.

[Sagar]

OK. Big room and double room.
The innkeeper will throw in all meals and stabling and charge you 6g per night for the lot.

It's midafternoon. Do you want to sell your goods first? Scout the temple? or go shopping?

Or go get permits?

Or split up and do several at once?

[Shiz]

Let's shop. It seems like armor - Trask, Fandango, Solak - is a common need. We want to seek out the most probable merchant for magical leather and hide armor.

I don't think we can afford whatever armor we might have on our wishlists, since +2 tends to be 3,000gp or so and we will be lucky to get 4,500.

[Sagar]

Before you go shopping, I need d100 rolls from each of you (in the discussion thread, please.)

[Asharad]

i'd like the solo room with the view of the church, please. Sorry for the delay.

[Asharad]

I'll need to scout around the temple as well, even assuming Baladir takes me on a field trip there. I just mean observe the guard patterns and that sort of thing.

Baladir, I'd suggest, if you are cool with it, that we go there, you in the role of a uptight paladin of Pelor (shoudln't require much acting) who is from a bigger, fancier temple and who has heard mixed reviews about this one (but who is willing to give it the benefit of the doubt, although a tour would be nice.


I'll be a scoundrel in need of saving who you have taken under your spiritual wing.

Also, like I said, I'd like to observe the coming and goings of the place, figure out the surrounding businesses, etc. I might want to find a good, working class tavern and see if there are any employees of the temple there.

[Lycos]

I think we should sell our stuff there. It will be easier to manage than carrying rolls of silk, and stuff. Better to liquidate now, IMO.

We'll hold off on the temple run until later. We really need to make sure we are not splitting up too much. And permits would be nice to have since we have my plate armor. I'm assuming that even holding onto such a thing is not a good thing without a permit.

[Lycos]

I'll be a scoundrel in need of saving who you have taken under your spiritual wing.

Usually, the newbies don't get to see much. You know they might have other motives like stealing from the place. :D

[DinbinFanfoom]

Brun agrees that money is more portable than hardware. Let us sell, THEN shop.

[Asharad]

Usually, the newbies don't get to see much. You know they might have other motives like stealing from the place. :D


That's why I am being accompanied by a well respected Paladin of Pelor.

[Lycos]

That's why I am being accompanied by a well respected Paladin of Pelor.

You assume a lot. I'm pretty sure I'm still a newb in their eyes. I haven't given much money to them, and I'm not there during every holy day. We can go together, but I would not presume that we will get too far either. Sell stuff first. Temple trip after.

[EricStratton]

You assume a lot. I'm pretty sure I'm still a newb in their eyes. I haven't given much money to them, and I'm not there during every holy day. We can go together, but I would not presume that we will get too far either. Sell stuff first. Temple trip after.
I don't know much about church but since when did a holy warrior of Pelor need to give money to the temple or show up on a holy day just to show a convert around? /shrug

[Lycos]

I don't know much about church but since when did a holy warrior of Pelor need to give money to the temple or show up on a holy day just to show a convert around? /shrug

We'll see how far we get.

//ooc It depends on how temples are run in Sagar's world. I'm assuming when I played before that they were not run like today's local Catholic church, etc.

[Sagar]

You talk to the Innkeeper about selling stuff and he directs you to likely merchants.

Amaril is looking to sell the bolts of cloth. Marish suggests the tailor (30) or the Cloak Shop (34). Who is going with Amaril?

Fandango is selling the gems, jewelry and boxes.
Baladir is selling the ornate tableware.
For these, Marish suggest either the Curio Shop (45) or the silversmith (7).

Since only Baladir rolled his "to sell" roll here (vs the "to find cool magic items" roll in the discussion thread), I took the liberty of rolling for you.

Amaril got an unadjusted 76 (101 adjusted).
Fandango got an unadjusted 60 (adjusted 83).
Baladir got his 65 (adjusted 92).

Please tell me who is going with whom and where you are going to sell (don't bother trying different places - the price will be the same.)

Also, let me know if you want to do any talking, rumor farming, or shopping when you get to a location.

[Sagar]

We'll see how far we get.

//ooc It depends on how temples are run in Sagar's world. I'm assuming when I played before that they were not run like today's local Catholic church, etc.


All temples are a little different. Each takes on the flavor of it's head priest.

You will have to see what this one is like for yourselves.

[Shiz]

Amaril and Brun go to the tailor. Fandango and Trask go to Curio. Baladir and Solak go to the silver smith. If any of us want to rumor-monger, go ahead.

[Asharad]

And I am always hitting up the folks for rumors. specifically info on the temple (although casually) but I'll take whatever I can get.

[Asharad]

boom goes the dynamite!

[Sagar]

Fandango and Trask go to the Curio shop. After haggling with Serlin of Rodes, the proprietor, you finally manage to convince him to buy the lot of rare gems, heirloom jewelry (possibly magical!) and rare wood boxes for 2081g.

While you are there, you strike up a conversation. He let's slip (streetwise success) that some item in the shop is really magical, but he can't for the life of him remember what it was or where he put it. Given all the stuff stacked everywhere, you can understand his plight.
Eagle eye Trask, however, spots an item he thinks might be magical. It looks to be a fancy bag, but Trask whispers to you that it seems to be bigger on the inside than it is on the outside.
What would either of you like to do?

[Sagar]

Amaril and Brun head to see the tailor - Karenthash the Mender. The store is goodly sized. Karenthash has 12 seamstresses and 16 assistants working busily and the shop is well stocked with a wide variety of clothing. You discern that Karenthash is VERY interested in the bolts of silk you have - you can tell there is very little of it in his shop at the moment. After some serious bargaining, Amaril gets 1407g for the lot.

Question: Do either of you wish to shop here or kibitz for rumors?

[Sagar]

Baladir and Solak head to the silversmith. Galen of Kas greets you warmly and shows you around his shop. He is mildly interested in your wares but, after some clever bargaining, you manage to eek out 480g for your merchandise. Galen, discerning that you are probably adventurers, asks if you have silvered weapons or need weapons resilvered. He specializes in such work and can silver weapons for a very reasonable cost, should you wish.

[Shiz]

Fandango and Trask go to the Curio shop. After haggling with Serlin of Rodes, the proprietor, you finally manage to convince him to buy the lot of rare gems, heirloom jewelry (possibly magical!) and rare wood boxes for 2081g.

While you are there, you strike up a conversation. He let's slip (streetwise success) that some item in the shop is really magical, but he can't for the life of him remember what it was or where he put it. Given all the stuff stacked everywhere, you can understand his plight.
Eagle eye Trask, however, spots an item he thinks might be magical. It looks to be a fancy bag, but Trask whispers to you that it seems to be bigger on the inside than it is on the outside.
What would either of you like to do?

Fandango is going to bargain for this. Roll well, charismatic one. Pretend we need a satchel that is old and dusty and won't attract attention.

[Asharad]

"Hey Trask, check it out. This old bag would be perfect for Brun to keep her animal **** in."

I'll then explain to the shopkeeper that we have a compainion who is a great warrior but a bit...well...touched in the head. for some reason she has a habit of collection animal feces. It's disgusting, and she keeps ruining all our nice packs. We could give her this old thing for her very own.

[EricStratton]

Amaril and Brun head to see the tailor - Karenthash the Mender. The store is goodly sized. Karenthash has 12 seamstresses and 16 assistants working busily and the shop is well stocked with a wide variety of clothing. You discern that Karenthash is VERY interested in the bolts of silk you have - you can tell there is very little of it in his shop at the moment. After some serious bargaining, Amaril gets 1407g for the lot.

Question: Do either of you wish to shop here or kibitz for rumors?
"It was very nice doing business with you. Do you happen to have any magical garments in stock? Also...."

If they appeared to recognize us (Insight 3+8) or just said they know who we are:

"We've been gone a while. Anything interesting going on?" (2+6 Streetwise)

If they don't know who we are (or I don't think they knew who we are):

"We're kind of new to Bracken. Anything interesting going on?" (2+6 Streetwise)

ETA: That's...amazing. Just amazing.

[Lycos]

Baladir and Solak head to the silversmith. Galen of Kas greets you warmly and shows you around his shop. He is mildly interested in your wares but, after some clever bargaining, you manage to eek out 480g for your merchandise. Galen, discerning that you are probably adventurers, asks if you have silvered weapons or need weapons resilvered. He specializes in such work and can silver weapons for a very reasonable cost, should you wish.

Baladir will thank the man for doing business with us. We will keep your skills in mind. Do you work with magical weapons or items? If so, perhaps he has some examples for us to look at. Hmmmm?

[Sagar]

"It was very nice doing business with you. Do you happen to have any magical garments in stock? Also...."

If they appeared to recognize us (Insight 3+8) or just said they know who we are:

"We've been gone a while. Anything interesting going on?" (2+6 Streetwise)

If they don't know who we are (or I don't think they knew who we are):

"We're kind of new to Bracken. Anything interesting going on?" (2+6 Streetwise)

ETA: That's...amazing. Just amazing.

Just as you begin your post selling conversation, another customer and, judging by the look on the vendor's face, a "very important customer". More than half turned towards the newcomer, the Tailor says "Thank you for coming to my shop. Please come back again if there is anything else I can do for you."

"Ah! Mr. Peckingworth. It's so GOOD to see you again!" The tailor wanders off to help the new customer.

[Sagar]

Baladir will thank the man for doing business with us. We will keep your skills in mind. Do you work with magical weapons or items? If so, perhaps he has some examples for us to look at. Hmmmm?


"Well... we like to think ALL of our work is magical." The silversmith chuckles. "But, unfortunately, not in the way you mean. I am afraid we have nothing enchanted at the moment nor do we have the skill to work with enchanted weapons."

With that, the silversmith bids you a cheerful "Good day".

It is now late afternoon. If you wish to get any permits today, you will all have to hustle to the magistrates.

[Shiz]

Trask will go to the magistrate after Fandango and he are done.

[Sagar]

Trask and the merchant begin to whistle idly as they wait for Fandango to respond.

[Shiz]

He did and he rolled a 27.

"Hey Trask, check it out. This old bag would be perfect for Brun to keep her animal **** in."

I'll then explain to the shopkeeper that we have a compainion who is a great warrior but a bit...well...touched in the head. for some reason she has a habit of collection animal feces. It's disgusting, and she keeps ruining all our nice packs. We could give her this old thing for her very own.

[Lycos]

Hustle! Hustle!

[Asharad]

sagar has me on the "pay me no mind" list lately. It's like he doesn't love me anymore.

[Sagar]

He did and he rolled a 27.

ALL vendor rolls will be D100 + abilities. This applies to buying and selling.

I apologize if I did not make that clear.

Are you SURE you want me to use the d20 roll instead of a d100 roll?

[Asharad]

Man...who would have though buying something was more complicated than killing a dragon? :)

That said, we will take the 74!

[EricStratton]

Just as you begin your post selling conversation, another customer and, judging by the look on the vendor's face, a "very important customer". More than half turned towards the newcomer, the Tailor says "Thank you for coming to my shop. Please come back again if there is anything else I can do for you."

"Ah! Mr. Peckingworth. It's so GOOD to see you again!" The tailor wanders off to help the new customer.
Ouch. Well, maybe he didn't know who we were. Maybe that's good.

Amari mutters another, "Thank you" and then he will bid a good evening to the lady (unless Brun wants to come) and hustle over to the magistrates to inquire about a magic license.

[Greebo]

Shopping as a Skill Challenge - New DMG2 Playtest from Dragon Mag from April 2009. (Sagar missed the note that this was an april fools prank...) ;)

[Shiz]

ALL vendor rolls will be D100 + abilities. This applies to buying and selling.

I apologize if I did not make that clear.

Are you SURE you want me to use the d20 roll instead of a d100 roll?

DOH! So it is d100+25, Ash.

[Sagar]

Man...who would have though buying something was more complicated than killing a dragon? :)

That said, we will take the 74!

After rapid and effective bargaining, you get the vendor to drop from 25g (for this rare and wonderful piece of woven art) to 5g40sp for "a cute bag to hold ****".

If you want to purchase at that price, just say you are taking the bag when you leave.

After that, the vendor bids you a good day and you head out for the magistrates.

[Asharad]

Indeedy, we shall take the **** bag!

[Shiz]

Tally: 3,980gp

5g40sp spent on the Bag of ?Holding? which more than offsets our less than perfect sale haggling. We must have saved 500gp at a minimum.

[Shiz]

Trask, Amaril, Solak and Baladir go the Magistrate. Fandango and Brun can go back to the inn. Trask has the Bag with him. All the coin from the sales will go in it.

Each of us still has 208gp in petty cash.

[Asharad]

I'd like to walk around the outside of the temple once, just to check it out for sneaking in purposes.

Sagar, I don't know if this is perception or thievery. I'd argue theivery simply because it is the preparation for an act of thieving but reasonable people could argue it is perception as well. My thievery is +11 and perception is +7 so I will defer to your judgement.

[Asharad]

Also, upthread somewhere I asked to do a streetwise check that we never got to. I rolled a 20 then, which is why I mention it. ;)

[Greebo]

Tally: 3,980gp

5g40sp spent on the Bag of ?Holding? which more than offsets our less than perfect sale haggling. We must have saved 500gp at a minimum.

That is too freaking funny for words.... **** bag indeed!

[Sagar]

Also, upthread somewhere I asked to do a streetwise check that we never got to. I rolled a 20 then, which is why I mention it. ;)

I posted that this place was rife with rumors and if you wanted to use streetwise, you needed to give me a location (numbered area). The available rumors are based on the locations.
You're 20 was used at the shop, iirc, to get him to admit he had misplaced a magical item somewhere.

[Sagar]

I'd like to walk around the outside of the temple once, just to check it out for sneaking in purposes.

Sagar, I don't know if this is perception or thievery. I'd argue theivery simply because it is the preparation for an act of thieving but reasonable people could argue it is perception as well. My thievery is +11 and perception is +7 so I will defer to your judgement.


You walk casually around the Temple. You know from the sketches drawn for you by the Old Man that the library is on the 3rd floor in a back corner room. You can try to go through the temple but that means avoiding a lot of people.

As you wander around, you identify two other ways in.
The first is to climb straight up the back of the building to the 3rd floor window next to the library. It would be a difficult climb and possibly a bit exposed but it's direct.
The second would be to climb an easier section of wall that's a bit less exposed and then to shimmy along a small (6-8") ledge that is 3 stories up. This would also take you to the window. You'd need to shimmy along the ledge for about 60'.

[Sagar]

Trask, Amaril, Solak and Baladir go the Magistrate. Fandango and Brun can go back to the inn. Trask has the Bag with him. All the coin from the sales will go in it.

Each of us still has 208gp in petty cash.

You get to the magistrates (#37) just before closing. In addition to the office, the building houses a small jail and a courtroom where lesser crimes are tried. Just inside the door, you see a bunch of postings with sketches of wanted criminals. The line ahead of you is very short.

After a brief wait, you find yourself before he magistrate, Heinrall the Grey. He makes a few notations on the paper in front of him, turns it over onto a stack, and looks up at you.

"How may I help you gentlemen today?"

[Zyzzyx]

Solak...

...makes his save and does not grumble about cities and bureaucracies, though you know he'd love to complain about it.

[Lycos]

Good afternoon sir, I need a license to have plate armor.

Also, I want to spend some time looking at the faces of wanted criminals listed in the magistrates office. Nudge Fandango to take a look as well. Rolling to see if I notice anyone.

[Sagar]

Good afternoon sir, I need a license to have plate armor.

Also, I want to spend some time looking at the faces of wanted criminals listed in the magistrates office. Nudge Fandango to take a look as well. Rolling to see if I notice anyone.

Fandango is not present. He went off somewhere else.

"I see. You are not a resident of Bracken. We almost never issue permits to non-residents."
The magistrate looks to the magic users... looks at Baladir again and then says,
"Well, you've lost the rogue and fighter but added a tiefling, I see. Well, perhaps we can allow one of the "Young Heros" to get a permit. You, " he points at the mages, "stand quietly."

"You," he points at Baladir, "Convince me why you should get a permit."

skill check. You may use history, religion, intimidation, bluff, or diplomacy. 3 wins = permit. 2 losses = no permit.

[Shiz]

Since he told Amaril to stand quietly, is there a way I can assist?

[Zyzzyx]

"Well, you've lost the rogue and fighter but added a tiefling, I see."
Solak gives a sigh of expected disappointment on hearing this comment.

ETA: Insight on the magistrates comment and how he feels regarding tieflings.

ETA2: Well ****... haven't seen me a 20 for quite awhile...

[EricStratton]

Amaril will stand quietly and use this time to study the pictures on the Wanted posters (Perception +5).

[Lycos]

Well, Baladir will use his Astral Speech skill and beg that he has been on temple business fighting evil forces (Malacon) in the area, and we were attacked most recently just even prior to entering the town. And it seems that the group came from Bracken, show him the wooden token that we found. It is of the utmost importance that I have the ability to defend myself if necessary for the good of the community and the temple. Baladir swears to use his fighting skills in self defense only.

Astral Speech - Minor Action - Effect: You gain a +4 power bonus to Diplomacy checks
until the end of the encounter.

Diplomacy +16

[Sagar]

Solak gives a sigh of expected disappointment on hearing this comment.

ETA: Insight on the magistrates comment and how he feels regarding tieflings.

ETA2: Well ****... haven't seen me a 20 for quite awhile...

He seems to be a straightforward, no-nonsense type that doesn't mind anyone as long as they behave.
He doesn't tolerate anyone if they don't.

A more honest man you don't think you will find.

[Sagar]

Well, Baladir will use his Astral Speech skill and beg that he has been on temple business fighting evil forces (Malacon) in the area, and we were attacked most recently just even prior to entering the town. And it seems that the group came from Bracken, show him the wooden token that we found. It is of the utmost importance that I have the ability to defend myself if necessary for the good of the community and the temple. Baladir swears to use his fighting skills in self defense only.

Astral Speech - Minor Action - Effect: You gain a +4 power bonus to Diplomacy checks
until the end of the encounter.

Diplomacy +16

The magistrate looks interested. "I've never heard of Malacon. Can you give us a description? I'd like to make sure my guys keep an eye out for him. Let me see that token." He takes and examines it. "Ahh, this is one of them things a guard at the gate sells to clueless newbies. I get complaints about them but the man is the Lord's nephew and claims he merely sold valuable momentos of a visit to Bracken. You can guess how the judge rules on THOSE cases."

Success 1.

[EricStratton]

The magistrate looks interested. "I've never heard of Malacon. Can you give us a description? I'd like to make sure my guys keep an eye out for him. Let me see that token." He takes and examines it. "Ahh, this is one of them things a guard at the gate sells to clueless newbies. I get complaints about them but the man is the Lord's nephew and claims he merely sold valuable momentos of a visit to Bracken. You can guess how the judge rules on THOSE cases."

Success 1.
Amaril raises an eyebrow at that line.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Ouch. Well, maybe he didn't know who we were. Maybe that's good.
Amari mutters another, "Thank you" and then he will bid a good evening to the lady (unless Brun wants to come) and hustle over to the magistrates to inquire about a magic license.
Brun wanders to the seediest pub to listen in on the rumours. And drink, of course.

(I assume we bought the bag?)

[Lycos]

The magistrate looks interested. "I've never heard of Malacon. Can you give us a description? I'd like to make sure my guys keep an eye out for him. Let me see that token." He takes and examines it. "Ahh, this is one of them things a guard at the gate sells to clueless newbies. I get complaints about them but the man is the Lord's nephew and claims he merely sold valuable momentos of a visit to Bracken. You can guess how the judge rules on THOSE cases."

Success 1.

Baladir gives a quick description. If he wants more information, it will obviously take longer than the man has time for since he is closing soon.

[Shiz]

Keep going Baladir. You need 3 wins to get your license.

[Lycos]

edit: Shiz will "speak for Baladir"

"Clueless newbies we may be when it comes to city life, sir, but I can assure you that we have achieved several hard-won victories on behalf of the Baron. Victories mean enemies, however. We only humbly request that should we be assaulted in your fair town by thugs that we be prepared to subdue them for justice to be dealt."

I will add the third dialogue after I see how the responds.

Lycos: I gotta head home and then do stuff at home, so here are my 2 other rolls then.

[Sagar]

edit: Shiz will "speak for Baladir"

"Clueless newbies we may be when it comes to city life, sir, but I can assure you that we have achieved several hard-won victories on behalf of the Baron. Victories mean enemies, however. We only humbly request that should we be assaulted in your fair town by thugs that we be prepared to subdue them for justice to be dealt."

.

"Please tell your description of Malacon to the bailiff when we are finished, if you please."

He listens to your next argument.

5+16 -2 for repeated technique vs DC, success.

"True, a man should not be deprived of defense if enemies are near. But while the Baron's arm is long, his grip here is tenuous. The Lord's grip is far stronger. Still, there is merit in what you say."

"But enough of these honeyed words. What else have you to say for yourself." (Insight, no further diplomacy attempts will be successful.)

[Lycos]

Ok, my last attempt will be with religion, and a little insight. I will try to determine the man's religion and if I cannot, I will ask him outright. Use my knowledge of religion in there were times in his religion that persons of his religion were allowed exceptions of the laws in doing the bidding of thier god. Baladir will make sure that he does not put himself at their level, but use them as examples, and that we believe the circumstances here to be similar.

[Sagar]

Baladir speaks at length about religious implications. By the time he is finished, the Magistrate is nodding with him.

"Tis true.. and if I can't trust a paladin to act honorably, who can I trust.

"Permit granted. Corporal, please see to the paperwork."

He turns to the casters, "Now, you have proven you can follow simple instructions. That is good. Now one of you 3 tell me why you need a magic use permit."

[Sagar]

Brunhilde finds herself at the Dancing Horseman Ale House (#12). Lieut Laycore is the innkeeper and employs 2 exotics and 3 barmaids to keep the customers happy. All are armed with daggers, though, to discourage TOO familiar advances. It's still early, only about 12 people are present. Brun drinks a few rounds and starts up a few discussions.

You need to give me a roll for finding rumors - streetwise or bluff or diplomacy would work. Your choice.

[EricStratton]

He turns to the casters, "Now, you have proven you can follow simple instructions. That is good. Now one of you 3 tell me why you need a magic use permit."
"As the so-called 'heroes' of Bracken, we are already targeted by those wishing to make names for themselves. History is full of those that gained fame and then did not make an effort to protect themselves. With one attempt on our lives just outside of town, we need to be prepared in the event any more citizens attempt to seek fame this way." (History 12+13)

Weak history, I know, but if I make something up I fear it'll be a Bluff instead of History.

[Sagar]

"There is something to what you say. I've, unfortunately, seen that many times in the past."

Success 1.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Brunhilde finds herself at the Dancing Horseman Ale House (#12). Lieut Laycore is the innkeeper and employs 2 exotics and 3 barmaids to keep the customers happy."I zink I know someone who might like zis place..."
You need to give me a roll for finding rumors - streetwise or bluff or diplomacy would work. Your choice.Brun doesn't expect much. She's not very good at socializing...

OOC: Woah. I guess the booze must have kicked in.

[Sagar]

After a few rounds of drinks, someone confides in you "You know, I heard that Sir Balashi BOUGHT his title from "King" Bracken XXXI." The confider winks at you conspiratorially.

That's about all you get before you figure you need to head back to the Inn.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Brun wanders back to the rest of her group (waiting for them at the Inn) and tells them what she heard. She has no idea who "Sir Balashi" is.

[Asharad]

I assume (because I requested it) that we got the solo room that overlooks the temple. Does that room have a view of the area you mentioned above, Sagar? And specifically the ground below it?

If not, I'd like to set up in a well hidden spot, all stealthy, and observe the comings and goings of guards during the night. Get the timing down.

[Lycos]

While the others are working on getting their permits, I will look over the pictures of the wanted posters. I want to see if we killed any of these guys recently.

[Sagar]

I assume (because I requested it) that we got the solo room that overlooks the temple. Does that room have a view of the area you mentioned above, Sagar? And specifically the ground below it?

If not, I'd like to set up in a well hidden spot, all stealthy, and observe the comings and goings of guards during the night. Get the timing down.

Before you said that, the group decided on a double room and the luxury room.
The luxury room sleeps 4 and has both a good view of the temple and a window which allows reasonable chance of a stealthy exit.

There is no single room that affords both a view and reliable unseen exit (that is, opening into quieter streets in shadow).

[EricStratton]

"There is something to what you say. I've, unfortunately, seen that many times in the past."

Success 1.
Sorry for leaving you hanging on 1 attempt. I crashed after typing up that post.

Amaril continues, "In the past? Oh sir, this was just TODAY! We were in the Staggering Drag Inn when some young buck attempted to stab our friend there." Amaril nods non-commitally (is that a word?) behind him. "We had a little talk with the man and I think he's seen the error of his ways but I think it just further proves the point."

(Bluff 11+11)

[Sagar]

"In the Drag Inn? Really? That's usually a nice, quiet place."

success 2, skill test passed.

"Well, you were quiet like I asked and you have made enemies early in your careers. I reckon you can be trusted with magic permits. You may use magic to defend yourselves and for demonstrations while in the city. You are not allowed to use excessive force or to attack when you are not actively threatened. If you are caught doing so, you will have to justify it to me. If found guilty, you will face jail time and a VERY stiff fine."

He looks at you directly.. ALL of you, including Baladir. "And I do mean stiff. If you are found guilty, you will have to hock that little mansion of yours down in Saltmarsh to get out of jail. Do I make myself clear?"

He awaits an answer.

[Shiz]

"Sir, does this also apply to healing magic? I would think not, since I cannot imagine that you would punish a priest from healing an injured person just because the priest or his allies were not themselves attacked first."

[Zyzzyx]

Solak nods, quietly saying a very respectful "Yes. Thank you."

[Sagar]

"Sir, does this also apply to healing magic? I would think not, since I cannot imagine that you would punish a priest from healing an injured person just because the priest or his allies were not themselves attacked first."

"Good question. Healing is fine. The prohibition applies mainly to offensive magic or magic used to intimidate or threaten."

[Lycos]

Yes, sir.

[Sagar]

By the time you leave the magistrates with your permits, many of the normal shops are closed. You head back to the Inn and are served a nice meal in the luxury room.

As you are finishing your after-dinner drinks, Brunhilde comes sloshing into the room. It is nearing dusk.

What would you like to do next?

Oh.. the bag. We didn't do anything with the bag, yet.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Oh.. the bag. We didn't do anything with the bag, yet.Did we buy it?

[Asharad]

Yeah. I'd like our finger wigglers to examine it to make sure it is a bag of holding and not a bag of eating.

Then, about midnight, I'd like to set up in a hidden location around where I'm planning on making my climb and study the patterns of the guards. Assuming nobody else has a better idea.

We'll plan on going after the book tomorrow night.

[Greebo]

I figured you already filled it with **** ;)

[Lycos]

When we are all back at the room. Baladir brings up a situation that he saw while being at the magistrates office.

It's not a very good sketch, but one of the [wanted] posters looks very very much like Fandango.

The crime was "indecent liberties with a minor".

Trask saw it as well. So, we need to know Fandango, any idea of when this might have occurred? Or maybe someone is trying to set you up?

[Shiz]

Trask has it. I posted that somewhere.

Trask and Fandango regale the group with how we bought this magic bag for almost nothing. We all examine it, putting items in and pulling them out to figure out how much it actually holds.

All the coin (~3800gp) from our sales goes in, assuming it fits. Everyone ios still carrying their 210gp from the 10pp+250gp in change we brought.

So, does Fandango want to go tonight or should we wait one more day to look for magic items in case we have to abandon the city?

Does anyone object to Trask holding the bag?

[Lycos]

Does anyone object to Trask holding the bag?

No

[DinbinFanfoom]

Trask and Fandango regale the group with how we bought this magic bag for almost nothing. We all examine it, putting items in and pulling them out to figure out how much it actually holds.Brun is not amused. Again. "Vun day, Fandango. Vun day... POW! To za moon!"
All the coin (~3800gp) from our sales goes in, assuming it fits. Everyone ios still carrying their 210gp from the 10pp+250gp in change we brought. Great!
Does anyone object to Trask holding the bag?Nope.

[Greebo]

Does anyone object to Trask holding the bag?
Trask, prepared to be left behind...

[Asharad]

Trask saw it as well. So, we need to know Fandango, any idea of when this might have occurred? Or maybe someone is trying to set you up?

Huh, weird.

I've only been here the one-time and I certainly don't remember any minors. I'll stay relatively undercover just in case. Maybe change my appearance up a bit.

Maybe we should do this tonight and get it over with.

/ooc Dragons I will buy. Orcs with fabulous treasures? Sure. Age of consent laws? No ****ing way.

[EricStratton]

Amaril saw the picture as well. Fandango should definitely look into changing his appearance. I assume the guards will be looking out for him (among the other perverts).

[Asharad]

Somebody go get me a hooded cloak and some dye...white or silver would work best. Also, grab me a staff, like a walking stick.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Wizard can colour stuff for one hour. Clothes. Hair.

[Asharad]

Wizard can colour stuff for one hour.


That might work in a pinch. Can he color all of me? By which I mean, make me look like a black guy? Or a yellow guy? Or some skin tone other than what I'm working with?

I was thinking of going with a "sick-old man" look.

[DinbinFanfoom]

That might work in a pinch. Can he color all of me? By which I mean, make me look like a black guy? Or a yellow guy? Or some skin tone other than what I'm working with?I don't think so. I think the limit is 1lb or one cubic foot. On second thought, maybe your head wouldn't fit... :D

[Asharad]

We can do it this evening, I suppose.

The only thing we are gaining by waiting is a sense of the guard patterns. We've gotta weight that against this wanted poster thing.

[Asharad]

Sagar, is the only way out of town the area we came through? Can you get over the wall in any other manner?

I guess I am asking if any of the buildings that line the interior walls are high enough.

[Sagar]

As far as you know now, there is only one way out - that is through the main gate.

You would bet that there are other ways, but you don't currently know them.

As for the bag. You start putting stuff in it. It gets heavy. It gets full. A seam or two begins to pop.

Solak and Amaril examine the bag. They look at Trask.
"**** bag, this may be. Magic, it is not."

Trask examine the bag again and realizes that there is a clever fold of fabric in the bottom that make the bag feel deeper than it appears. Also, the outside is cut to make the bag seem shallower. It is a pretty bag, though.

In that shop, there is a 30% chance the party will find something they think is magical. I rolled a 16. Sorry Trask. A detect magic would have outted it in a heartbeat, though.

[Asharad]

Is the bag big enough the book will fit in it? Maybe in that sort of secret compartment in the bottom?

[EricStratton]

The stores are closed (re: getting dye). I think the best we'll do in a pinch is to snag some soot from the fireplace. OOORRR if you meant get it tomorrow while you're laying low than no problem. We'll check out the stores then. There must be a dyer in town or maybe the weaver.

[Shiz]

We DO NOT steal the book tonight. Tomorrow we spend some money on potions and maybe some magic items. Fandango can "sleep" all day and study the temple from here.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Fandango can generate potential child-support claims all day and study the temple from here.Fixed.

[Asharad]

That's cool. somebody try to find me a magic dagger (+2) and the stuff I mentioned.

[Shiz]

Bummer on the bag. Well, it will be a good place to hide the book.

[Asharad]

Trask and I will hang upstairs and watch the temple.

Everyone else can do whatever (although fresh eyes would be nice). Don't mention me or malacon, if possible.

[Zyzzyx]

I'll go down to the common area, grab an ale, and set somewhere to watch whatever folks are around. After the magistrate today I'm mostly just curious to see how folks react to a tiefling. Listening to overhear any comments about me, or the 'young heroes'.

[EricStratton]

Tonight - After dinner Amaril will ask the innkeeper where one can find magical implements and also weapons, specifically daggers. On his way up to bed he'll visit Fandango's room (ONLY if he can get in unseen) and give them a break on watching the temple then head to bed himself for his 6 hour meditation.

Tomorrow he'll go to the stores he was pointed to and look for a magical rod and magical dagger (for Fandango but he'll say, if asked, that it's for himself).

[Lycos]

Baladir is going to grab a space in one of the rooms to pray and meditate.

[Sagar]

You watch the temple area during the night. Mostly it's quiet. You see a few roaming patrols, but they look mostly bored. You do see a furtive figure or two go by at times.

At one point, you see a small crowd of people armed with clubs prowling the street seemingly looking for something (or someone). They are lead by a rather better equipped, somewhat tall figure.

You do not see any kind of pattern to the guards or the traffic.

You also see a fair number of people enter the temple around 9pm and leave about 45 minutes later.

[Asharad]

At one point, you see a small crowd of people armed with clubs prowling the street seemingly looking for something (or someone). They are lead by a rather better equipped, somewhat tall figure.

Hmm.


Slightly troubling.

[Lycos]

Hmm.

Slightly troubling.

Yeah, we need to check into that tomorrow.

[Sagar]

Is anyone going out tonight or are you all gonna hang at this Inn.

[Shiz]

Sounds like we are staying in.

[Greebo]

Bunch of party animals you are!

[Lycos]

I got another vision from Pelor:

You begin to see a shape, very very indistinct. It seems to be actively drawing shadow around and over itself. You can tell it is furiously angry - both by its abrupt actions and you can almost feel the anger emanating from it waves. The harder you look at the figure, the more hazy and blurry it gets.

Drawing back, you see a second figure.. then a third.. and a fourth. The fourth, you recognize. It's a tall, shadowy puppetmaster. This time, his strings descend to something odd. The being's image flickers back and forth between a stooped, clawed, red-eyed horror - humanoid looking, but not human - and a tall, proud and very dangerous looking being that appears human but has red glowing eyes and pale skin.

From this composite figure, more puppet strings descend to control a pack of small creatures at her feet.

The creatures she controls are surrounding and harassing the last figure. This figure is most directly in the light. It seems to be a man and not a man but you can't see his face to be sure. In his hands are more puppet staves. Almost all of the strings he controlled, however, have been cut. You know, somehow, that this is a bad thing.

Your last figure begins to turn. You can almost see his profile when someone pounds on the door, breaking your concentration.

Awakening from your meditation, you realize that the "pounding" is actually the lightest of taps. Your mates were just checking to make sure you were ok.

The glowing red eye guy seems to be a new Malacon toy. What is really disconcerting is that there seems to be someone behind Malacon. Also, there is a female now. And there seems to be someone who lost control. The Lord here maybe? He might made a deal that cost him his control of things. I know it's mostly wild speculation, but that's the best I can see. Sorry.

[Shiz]

Have we met a female in a position of power yet? Malacon is still the puppetmaster, so he has twisted some woman of power to his own ends. The last guy might be the Baron.

Tomorrow morning after shopping, we should probably try and discover if any of the leaders in this town are women.

[Lycos]

Sagar: In the morning, I am going to ask around about the group of people with torches and with the tall guy. My reason is going to be that they were so noisy that I woke up and saw them. Streetwise +5. I'm asking who they are, what were they doing, has anyone seen them before, etc. I will focus on talking to the inn employees first. If I get nothing from them, I will look up that guard, Berashak, that we met when entering the city.

[Shiz]

Sagar will ask where and who you will ask. Guards? The Innkeeper?

[Lycos]

Sagar will ask where and who you will ask. Guards? The Innkeeper?

Updated.

[Sagar]

The people at the Inn basically don't know. A few respond with "Yeah, I've seem them too. Dunno who they are. Look like trouble and I leave 'em be."

You approach the guard. He seems to try to avoid eye contact - suddenly becoming VERY involved with incoming travelers. Eventually, you make it clear you are not there in a recriminating role and he becomes more amiable. After a bit of banter, you tell him your question. He answers, "Ahh.. yeah, I know them. They are the Tourism Information Bureau. At least, that is what they like to call themselves. Always trying to dig up dirt on folks and take the "law" into their own hands. Bunch of vigilante crackpots, if you ask me. "

[Lycos]

The people at the Inn basically don't know. A few respond with "Yeah, I've seem them too. Dunno who they are. Look like trouble and I leave 'em be."

You approach the guard. He seems to try to avoid eye contact - suddenly becoming VERY involved with incoming travelers. Eventually, you make it clear you are not there in a recriminating role and he becomes more amiable. After a bit of banter, you tell him your question. He answers, "Ahh.. yeah, I know them. They are the Tourism Information Bureau. At least, that is what they like to call themselves. Always trying to dig up dirt on folks and take the "law" into their own hands. Bunch of vigilante crackpots, if you ask me. "

I thank him for the information. No hard feelings about the token thing.

Baladir doesn't really know what to make out of the TIB. Sounds like it could be something or just some group of thugs.

[Lycos]

I assume we are going shopping for magic items again today. We need healing potions bad. 2 for me and 2 for Brun. We'll have to see what else we come up with.

[Shiz]

3-4 potions for everyone.

[Sagar]

Ok, places you may be interested in:

5. Swordmaker
9. Boyer
14. Shields
21. Morningstar Shop
24. Mail shop
26. Armorer
28. Cleric Supply Shop
29. Tourist Information
33. Mid Adventure Supply Shop
34. Cloak Shop
39. Magic Shop
46. Alchemist
47. Jeweler

10. Balashei bar
12. The Dancing Horseman Ale House
13. The Happy Lady Bath House
15. King Bracken XXXI
27. Mist Marsh Inn
31. Tipsy Trickster Tavern
32. Trolls Trident Tap
41. Singing Mountain Inn
48. Staggering Drag Inn

Let me know where you want to go, who goes there, what you shop for, and if you will fish for rumors (streetwise or diplomacy rolls).

[DinbinFanfoom]

Brun is interested in cloaks and alchemy.

[Shiz]

Trask and Brun will head to the alchemist. The 3870gp will be divided up among everyone (645gp+208gp previously). Brun and I should be able to buy potions for everyone with our shares and get reimbursed later. At least 2 healing potions for everyone is the goal.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Agreed, given decent quantities.

[Asharad]

Don't forget I need a crappy rob, some silver dye and a walking stick. Try to buy them at different places if possible.

[EricStratton]

Amaril will look for the robe for Fandango.

Amaril will go to #5, the Sword Maker, and see if they carry daggers. If they don't, can they suggest who does? If they do, do they have any magical ones (20+13 Arcana to verify if they pull out possible magical daggers).

Then he'll head to #33, Mid Adventure Supply Shop, to see if they carry simple robes (for Fandango), possibly used.

He'll hit #26, Armorer, for a robe if the Mid Adventure Supply Shop doesn't have any.

Finally, he'll swing by #39, Magic Shop, and see if they carry magical rods.

[Lycos]

I'd like to hit #5, #14, #26, #39 (mostly for curiosity), #46 (mostly for curiosity). I'll convince Amaril that he needs to go to the shops that do not match his list. I need his aid in assessing magic items. :D

[Sagar]

Amaril and Baladir go out shopping. Everyone else, apparently, sleeps in.

First they go to the sword maker. He does very fine work, but does not have a large stock. There are several nice daggers - non magical. One, though, is of such fine workmanship that it provides +1 damage despite being non-magical.

The swordmaker does tell you that he's heard there is a powerful magical sword in a dragon horde to the south.

On to the shield shop (14). Kalenel the Cross is a but surly, but shows you his wares. He has a wide assortment of shields. Well made but none are magical. As you talk and look over his wears, he tells you he heard the goblins to the east were forced out of their homes and are raiding on the countryfolk.

Then to the Armorer (26). Alan of Arakos has a full range of weapons and armor in one shop. The quality of weapons is not as high as you saw before, but they are fully functional. He has 23 workers and 16 assistants working industriously away.

You do see one unusual item here. It is a large horned helm. You quickly realize it is magical and fairly strong. It looks just like the kind of thing Brunhilde would like.

gotta run back later

[Shiz]

Trask and Brun will head to the alchemist. The 3870gp will be divided up among everyone (645gp+208gp previously). Brun and I should be able to buy potions for everyone with our shares and get reimbursed later. At least 2 healing potions for everyone is the goal.

We are not sleeping in.

[EricStratton]

The swordmaker does tell you that he's heard there is a powerful magical sword in a dragon horde to the south.
I assume this is the flaming sword Baladir got.

You do see one unusual item here. It is a large horned helm. You quickly realize it is magical and fairly strong. It looks just like the kind of thing Brunhilde would like.
Amaril will try to identify just what kind of helm it is so he's in a better position to bargain for the item (Arcana +13). Then he'll attempt to bargain for the item.

(I'm guessing I have to make another 1d100 roll here.)

[DinbinFanfoom]

You do see one unusual item here. It is a large horned helm. You quickly realize it is magical and fairly strong. It looks just like the kind of thing Brunhilde would like.OOC: OK, now to find an opera voice teacher...

[Sagar]

oops.. sowwy.

Trask and Brunhilde stride boldly forth into the early morning dew to bravely find and fleece the dastardly alchemist!

You find Neurojoule the Unstable, alchemist extraordinaire! He is also a serious fidgit. His hands never seem to stop - moving this, adjusting that, fiddling with the other.
You discover that he only has 2 healing potions left in the shop.
"We've had a run on them and I haven't gotten around to making more," he explains.

He asks if you would like more. He can make some and have it ready for tomorrow.

He has other items you might be interested in. He shows you some alchemical acid - a flask that you can throw and do acid damage. Or alchemist frost which does cold damage and slows the target.
He has alchemical silver, which lets your weapon act as a silver weapon for the rest of the encounter, and antivenom (2 vials), fire blastpatch, clearwater solution (1) and some dragonfire tar (2).

[Sagar]

I assume this is the flaming sword Baladir got.


Amaril will try to identify just what kind of helm it is so he's in a better position to bargain for the item (Arcana +13). Then he'll attempt to bargain for the item.

(I'm guessing I have to make another 1d100 roll here.)

That dragon was to the east, not the south.

The helm is definitely magical. It allows one to do extra damage when charging. (Level 6 item, 1800g base price).

[DinbinFanfoom]

The helm is definitely magical. It allows one to do extra damage when charging. (Level 6 item, 1800g base price).OOC: Hey! Brunhilde would never charge helter skelter... hmm... get me a deal, Amaril!

To Trask: "Hrm, not many healink potions, but ve should take zem and maybe za pioson cure vuns? Vat you zink?"

[Shiz]

Alchemist:

We want the two healing potions and the poison cures. How many of the silver ones does he have?

[EricStratton]

OOC: Hey! Brunhilde would never charge helter skelter... hmm... get me a deal, Amaril!
Will do!

That dragon was to the east, not the south.

The helm is definitely magical. It allows one to do extra damage when charging. (Level 6 item, 1800g base price).
Noted.

1800g base, eh? Well, let's make a deal.

(I rolled my 1d100 above. Got a 52 total...which is disappointing but I'll work w/ it).

[Lycos]

Let me help Amaril with my +12 diplomacy. :D

[Lycos]

gotta run back later

Any luck at 39? Or are you waiting to see what we do with this helm?

[Sagar]

Alchemist:

We want the two healing potions and the poison cures. How many of the silver ones does he have?

"There are 4 alchemical silver potions, sir."

Give me a roll and I'll total it up for you.

[Sagar]

Will do!


Noted.

1800g base, eh? Well, let's make a deal.

(I rolled my 1d100 above. Got a 52 total...which is disappointing but I'll work w/ it).

After some less than effectual negotiating on your part, you settle on 2196g as the price for the helm.

Are you going to purchase it?

[Shiz]

"There are 4 alchemical silver potions, sir."

Give me a roll and I'll total it up for you.

Please list the prices for each separately.

[Sagar]

Alchemical Silver: 22g each
Antivenom: 22g each
Healing Potions: 54g each.

[Shiz]

Alchemical Silver: 22g each
Antivenom: 22g each
Healing Potions: 54g each.

We will buy them all

54g X 2 = 108
22g X 2 = 44
22g X 4 = 88

Total: 240gp.

[Lycos]

Are you going to purchase it?

Seeing that Amaril is so shocked by the price that he can't speak. Baladir tells the man, "No. That's ok. "

We go to the magic shop, which I think is the last on on my list of stores that I wanted to hit.

[Sagar]

We will buy them all

54g X 2 = 108
22g X 2 = 44
22g X 4 = 88

Total: 240gp.

Done.

"Do you need me to prepare more healing potions this for tomorrow?"

[Shiz]

"No thank you. This will serve us well."

[Sagar]

Amaril and Baladir head over to the Midadventure Supply Shop. They find a veritable Walmart of adventuring gear. Ropes, poles, weapons, armor, sunrods, oil, and much much more.

When you query about magic weapons, though, you are disappointed.
"We've had a bit of a run on magical items," explains Darthon, the owner. "I've unloaded a ton of it in the last tenday."

Here, you can find just about any weapon, armor, or item of non-magical nature.
Of magical nature, you find 2 potions of healing, a +1 morning star, and a +1 halberd.
There are also some magical items that are out of your price range.
They do have some robes, but one of the assistants suggests you look at the cloak shop for something more like what you would want.

[EricStratton]

Amaril and Baladir head over to the Midadventure Supply Shop. They find a veritable Walmart of adventuring gear. Ropes, poles, weapons, armor, sunrods, oil, and much much more.

When you query about magic weapons, though, you are disappointed.
"We've had a bit of a run on magical items," explains Darthon, the owner. "I've unloaded a ton of it in the last tenday."

Here, you can find just about any weapon, armor, or item of non-magical nature.
Of magical nature, you find 2 potions of healing, a +1 morning star, and a +1 halberd.
There are also some magical items that are out of your price range.
They do have some robes, but one of the assistants suggests you look at the cloak shop for something more like what you would want.
"How much for the potions of healing?" (Barter: 87+25)

"Are any of your robes magical?" (Arcana: 19+13)

"And thank you for the suggestion for the cloak."

[Sagar]

They don't currently have any magical robes. But they encourage you to check back again as their stocks changes.

They also ask if you would like them to look for anything in particular.

[Sagar]

Oops.. I forgot the consumables:

The adventure shop does have some consumable magic items: (prices are base costs per item, subject to your haggle roll). (descriptions IIRC and subject to change when I get my AV in front of me)

2 frozen whetstones (100g) - +2 cold damage to each attack for 1 encounter (or 5 minutes)
10 stonemeal bisquits (30g) - 1 = full day of food, +1 to endurance checks, +(1 or 2) to surges during rest.
2 nails of sealing (40g) - magically seals a door or portal. I think DC 25 needed to open.
potion of mimicry (100g) - Allows one to mimic any observed humanoid for 1hour (iirc). This includes looks, voice, mannerism, etc.
2 potions of clarity (50g) - iirc, drink 1 and, anytime for the rest of the encounter, you can reroll a d20 roll. (elven accuracy in a bottle)
Elixir of dragon breath (100g) - breath frost (2d6+?), I think close blast 2 or 3. Basically AoE in a bottle. 1x use.

[Lycos]

Oops.. I forgot the consumables:

The adventure shop does have some consumable magic items: (prices are base costs per item, subject to your haggle roll).

2 frozen whetstones (100g)
10 stonemeal bisquits (30g)
2 nails of sealing (40g)
potion of mimicry (100g)
2 potions of clarity (50g)
Elixir of dragon breath (100g)

I have no idea what they do. Sorry, can you elaborate on these?

[Sagar]

"How much for the potions of healing?" (Barter: 87+25)

"Are any of your robes magical?" (Arcana: 19+13)

"And thank you for the suggestion for the cloak."

48g each for the potions.

"I don't believe we currently have any magical robes."

You can tell yourself fairly easily. Just concentrate on detecting magic for a minute or so.. and make a good roll.

[EricStratton]

48g each for the potions.

"I don't believe we currently have any magical robes."

You can tell yourself fairly easily. Just concentrate on detecting magic for a minute or so.. and make a good roll.
Not sure if you're telling me that I should concentrate on detecting magic or that I *did* concentrate on detecting magic. B/c I did roll and got an awesome 32.

[Sagar]

I have no idea what they do. Sorry, can you elaborate on these?

See above - as best I can remember.

[Shiz]

I am not excited about the items, particularly but since we haven't found much to buy and cash doesn't help us, maybe we should just clean him out except for the biscuits and nails.

[EricStratton]

"We'll take the healing potions. And I'm interested in the rest of your items. Except for the biscuits."

I'll take the nails. Maybe they'll prove useful. /shrug.

I'm making one barter roll now and then going ot the gym. If you need a barter roll for each individual item, someone else can make it or you can wait for me to get back.

Barter: 3+25

OH COME ON!!!!! :mad!: :mad!: :mad!:

[Shiz]

He already priced them for you.

[Lycos]

I'll take the potion of mimcry for Fandango.

[Sagar]

192g 2 frozen whetstones
0 g 0 stonemeal bisquits
76g 2 nails of sealing
96g potion of mimicry
96g 2 potions of clarity
96g Elixir of dragon breath

556g total

Let me know if there was something you didn't want to buy.

[Lycos]

To tell you the truth, I think the other stuff(everything except for the potion of mimicry and healing potions) is really not worth it. I'm of the mind to hold onto the money until we find something really nice. Also, we could look into having someone place protections on our stuff back at the manor.

[EricStratton]

He already priced them for you.
That was base price subject to haggling.

To tell you the truth, I think the other stuff(everything except for the potion of mimicry and healing potions) is really not worth it. I'm of the mind to hold onto the money until we find something really nice. Also, we could look into having someone place protections on our stuff back at the manor.
Meh, we've got a lot of money. I think we stock up on what we can, when we can. If we it turns out we don't need em, we can sell em.

[EricStratton]

Meh, we've got a lot of money. I think we stock up on what we can, when we can. If we it turns out we don't need em, we can sell em.
Now, that being said - 550g is a lot of money (a full 1/6th of what we have on us, right?). Are we all cool w/ spending that much? Or do we want to cut out a nail and maybe the dragon potion? That'd bring the total down to 422g.

[Shiz]

Bal isn't so comfortable spending that much, so let's cut out one nail and the dragon elixir, yes.

[Lycos]

Bal isn't so comfortable spending that much, so let's cut out one nail and the dragon elixir, yes.

I don't want to drag this down, so that's fine.

[Shiz]

Editing loot thread to exclude those.

[EricStratton]

"Ok, sir, you drive a hard bargain. We'd like the following:"

192g 2 frozen whetstones
38g 1 nail of sealing
96g potion of mimicry
96g 2 potions of clarity

422g total

[Sagar]

"Excellent. And thank you sirs. Please visit us again as our stock varies and I am sure you will find something more to your liking next time."

Please note who carries which items. Expecially the whetstones and the potions of clarity.

You move on to the cloak shop. They have a wide selection of cloaks and robes - some new and some used. Zulman, the proprietor shows you around. You see what you think is a perfect robe for Fandango. It's a Sunday-go-to-temple robe.. from about 30 years ago. Just what a poor old man heading to temple might wear. (that can be had for 5s, no haggling required.)

[EricStratton]

I don't remember having a backpack or anything. Baladir and I will split the goods until we can divvy them out back at the Inn.

"We'll take that cloak. Joke gift for a friend." *smile*

"And do you happen to carry any magical goods? He needs a real present after I give him the joke one." *laugh* Oh, Amaril. You're such a silly friend.

Amaril will take a look around to see if he spots any himself (Arcana 7+13).

[Shiz]

I updated the character thread with all the potions. Zyz, you still have not listed all your magic items. I took a stab at it, but I cannot get to 19 AC.

[Sagar]

I don't remember having a backpack or anything. Baladir and I will split the goods until we can divvy them out back at the Inn.

"We'll take that cloak. Joke gift for a friend." *smile*

"And do you happen to carry any magical goods? He needs a real present after I give him the joke one." *laugh* Oh, Amaril. You're such a silly friend.

Amaril will take a look around to see if he spots any himself (Arcana 7+13).

You pause and zone out. The proprietor says, "Is your friend ok?"

After a minute, Amaril snaps out of it, wanders over to a pile and, after fingering a few robes, pulls up one fairly nondescript cloak and says, "I think Trask would like this one."

Laughing at Baladir's skeptical look, he says, "We can't let Fandango look trampy alone!" and winks at the paladin.

The cloakmaker looks confused and says "Uhm, that one is, uh, special and uhm.. I couldn't take less than 5 gold."

[Lycos]

So, we go back and hang out at the inn until night fall? Unless someone says differently, let's go with it.

[Shiz]

Buy the cloak, first. And someone was getting Fandango disguise stuff.

Then we will meet back at the inn, divide up the potions and the cloak and then proceed to have a relaxing afternoon and evening.

[Lycos]

Let's do it. :D

[Sagar]

Amaril buys the cloak (accepting the 5g without haggling.) He also gets the robe for Fandango.

Next, Baladir and Amaril stop at the magic shop. In the shop, they have blank spellbooks, wands, rods, staves, and all manner of magical components for rituals. They also have a few rituals for sale. Unfortunately, most of their current stock is in items you can not reasonable use or afford. You do find a nice old staff (plain and shabby for a wizard, but sturdy and looks about right for an old man using it for support). This you purchase for 9s.

So you return to the inn. You have an robe and a staff. Fandango has purloined flour from the kitchen to "gray" his hair and char from the fire to age his face.

Do you want to do anything else before dusk?

[DinbinFanfoom]

Do you want to do anything else before dusk?
Plan the quickest plan A, B and C escape routes from Bracken for if things go south?

[EricStratton]

You pause and zone out. The proprietor says, "Is your friend ok?"

After a minute, Amaril snaps out of it, wanders over to a pile and, after fingering a few robes, pulls up one fairly nondescript cloak and says, "I think Trask would like this one."

Laughing at Baladir's skeptical look, he says, "We can't let Fandango look trampy alone!" and winks at the paladin.

The cloakmaker looks confused and says "Uhm, that one is, uh, special and uhm.. I couldn't take less than 5 gold."
"5 gold it is, sir. Thank you."

Now we're off to the Magic Shop to see what they have. "Baladir, why are you in such a hurry to get back?"

When we get back to the Inn I'll try to do a more thorough analysis on the cloak (Arcana 11+13).

[Asharad]

Okay, here is the plan, as I see it. feel free to chime in, anyone.

About one o'clock we put two pairs of people at either end of the street. When it is relatively clear I will climb up the wall and then across the ledge to the window. I'll peek in and make sure no-one is there, find the book, grab it and get out.

If the guards or anyone else walk by when I am climbing, ya'll need to distract them, but not so much that it causes other people to come see what is going on.

Assuming I can find the thing and there is no ruckus, we should return to the inn. really early we are up, pay our bill and leave. I'll dress like an old man and one of you can help me out of the city. If anyone questions us I will cough like mad and say I have been feeling poorly since I got back from my charitable work at the plague colony and decided that some time in the country would do me some good. everyone else should be close enough to help, but not so much we look like one group.

If there is a ruckus...well, I'll get out of the temple with the book the best I can. I can probably, assuming I'm not in combat, sneak away and hide. I would suggest helping only if it looks like someone is going to die. If that happens then we need to get out of the town as quick as possible. I'd rather that not happen.

Should I leave the room via the window? Any of this make sense? We need meet up points and exit strategies in case of disaster.

[DinbinFanfoom]

"Vil za guards be suspicious of people schtanding around zat time of za night? Iz zere a curfew here? I'm not za vagrant..."

[Shiz]

"Fandango, you entered with us uneventfully. You should be able to exit without a disguise. In fact, you spent yesterday shopping and went un-accosted. I am not concerned about the Wanted poster overmuch. Don't forget you have that mimicry potion also. Of course, you need someone worth mimicing to make it useful.

As far as eyes on the ground, whatever you think is best, but none of us are particualrly adept at being non-descript. I am ceraintly willing to keep my eyes out for you, though."

[EricStratton]

"And we must be aware of the torch wielding mob that we saw the other night."

[Lycos]

"And we must be aware of the torch wielding mob that we saw the other night."

Yup.

Should we come up with a rendevzous point if we need to split up? Fandango, suggestions? What time were you planning on doing this job? We might want to meet outside the city at an agreed upon location in the morning.

[Sagar]

"5 gold it is, sir. Thank you."

Now we're off to the Magic Shop to see what they have. "Baladir, why are you in such a hurry to get back?"

When we get back to the Inn I'll try to do a more thorough analysis on the cloak (Arcana 11+13).

You find potent spellthreads woven throughout the otherwise bland cloak.

Eventually, you determine that it is a +2 Cloak of Resistance. (iirc.. I forgot to bring that with me.. grrr) +2 to F/W/R and, once per day as a minor action, you get resist 5 to all damage until EONT.

Remember, F/W/R bonuses do not stack. Only the most powerful applies.

[Zyzzyx]

Remember, F/W/R bonuses do not stack. Only the most powerful applies.
Sagar, check the comments in the Character info thread. Looks like FWR bonuses can stack, but only if they're of different types. If this is considered an item bonus, it would stack with an amulet that is an enhancment bonus. Info from PHB p275, and the character creator.

[Sagar]

Both the ring and the cloak resistances are enhancements.

[Sagar]

So you shopping is done. Now it's time for plans.

Fandango proposed a plan. Is that what you are going to do?
If not, I need a few things:

1. What time will you go.
2. Who besides Fandango will go.
3. If others go, where will they be and what will they do.

As for escape routes, no one looked for any. You still only know the main gate route out. You do remember that they looked at the incoming people alot harder than the outgoing ones.

[Shiz]

Do we know when the gates open and close?

[Sagar]

Do we know when the gates open and close?


Yes, dawn and dusk.

[DinbinFanfoom]

So getting out at night is impossible. Unless we go over the wall.

[Shiz]

If Fandango is caught, I truly believe we can talk/apologize our way out of it. The onlt thing going against us is that we did not ask to see the book legitimately first.

If Fandango is not caught, then we leave at dawn. We are "the heroes". People will believe "we have important stuff" to do. Besides, Bal is an ace at Diplo with his Daily. He should be able to talk us out of most binds.

So, Trask will be on the street, tucked away in some shadows, watching for trouble while Fandango climbs. Everyone else should be in the inn room.

If the "angry mob" mob comes by, I suggest that Baladir accost them from the window with "Mind telling me what is going on?" kind of thing. They will all be looking at him. He can then volunteer to join them and keep them distracted with tales of our exploits.

If Trask needs help, Amaril can teleport to aid very quickly. The rest can react if necessary, but I don't expect fighting. Trask is not a talker, though, so Amaril's assistance might be required so he should be ready.

[Lycos]

If Fandango is caught, I truly believe we can talk/apologize our way out of it. The onlt thing going against us is that we did not ask to see the book legitimately first.

That's situational. If we get caught red handed, no talking, no matter how well itis done, is going to get you out of that. I would recommend that Fandango have someone in the temple in mind to use for that mimicry potion. Someone who is pretty high up, and won't be questioned or questioned as much as to their actions. If we could guarantee that the person will not show up at the same time that Fandango is in the temple that would be great.

Sagar: Baladir is going to use his religion knowledge to determine the best person who Fandango can mimic.

Also, it might do us well, to have me available outside the temle or in the temple at the time just in case. If Fandango needs help, he could have someone come get me for an audience with him. I also could help him get out because I know the rules and traditions better, I might help him along with acting like the person he is mimicing.


If Fandango is not caught, then we leave at dawn. We are "the heroes". People will believe "we have important stuff" to do. Besides, Bal is an ace at Diplo with his Daily. He should be able to talk us out of most binds.

And if he is caught?


If the "angry mob" mob comes by, I suggest that Baladir accost them from the window with "Mind telling me what is going on?" kind of thing. They will all be looking at him. He can then volunteer to join them and keep them distracted with tales of our exploits.

Not if they are on a mission. Like looking for us. Or one of us. I have the feeling these guys are out to get us for some reason. And I would rather have a plan to deal with them rather than assuming that they will just listen to our tales of adventure and join us for an ale.

If a fight starts with these guys, we need a plan to deal with them in force.


If Trask needs help, Amaril can teleport to aid very quickly. The rest can react if necessary, but I don't expect fighting. Trask is not a talker, though, so Amaril's assistance might be required so he should be ready.

If Trask needs help with fighter types, you are going to be hosed even with Amaril. You guys don't have much armor, and except for Trask, you don't have much in the area of fighting skills in that area. Brun should be on hand to help you as well Trask.

That is my 2 cents.

Fandango needs to lead this one. You tell us what you want Fandango.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Not if they are on a mission. Like looking for us. Or one of us. I have the feeling these guys are out to get us for some reason. And I would rather have a plan to deal with them rather than assuming that they will just listen to our tales of adventure and join us for an ale.
Can Solak sleep em?

[Asharad]

That's situational. If we get caught red handed, no talking, no matter how well itis done, is going to get you out of that. I would recommend that Fandango have someone in the temple in mind to use for that mimicry potion. Someone who is pretty high up, and won't be questioned or questioned as much as to their actions. If we could guarantee that the person will not show up at the same time that Fandango is in the temple that would be great.


Well..I've actually met the baron or whatever the name of the guy who runs this little burg is.

[Shiz]

It is no secret we are in Bracken. No one has come for Fandango yet. I think Baladir is over-estimating the danger of that small mob, but I have been wrong before.

I actually think Sagar was just ****ing with us in re: the Wanted poster.

[Lycos]

Also, it might be a good idea to have a stashing spot for the book if we need it. Any ideas?

[Lycos]

Well..I've actually met the baron or whatever the name of the guy who runs this little burg is.

But why would he be in the temple? I'm thinking of a situation where you are in the middle of trying to get this book, and someone is coming. How do you get out of there without getting caught? The Baron might be a good idea except he might draw more attention than you really need. The best solution would be some administrative guy who has a good amount of access, but is not that important that everyone remembers him coming and going. Or the cleaning crew guys. They have all the access and people pay very little attention to them.

[Shiz]

A temple library on the third floor is only going to have some select priests during the middle of the night. If Fandango cannot manage to hide from sleepy priests in a dark library, then we shouldn't be doing this at all. Pelor is god of the day/sun. The place should be mostly deserted.

[Asharad]

What Shiz said.

Also, there is nobody better to be than the baron of this town. I love Pelor, you see. Love him. But I am the shepard of a large flock and not all of them have seen the light yet. In order to aid me in bringing the sun to those in the dark I sometimes like to come up here and read the words of Pelor. It must be kept a secret as there are...forces...at work which are trying to convert the good people of this city to other...dark gods...

etc, etc.

[Shiz]

His name is Felstaff, btw, the leader of Bracken. He is not a Baron, though.

[Lycos]

His name is Felstaff, btw, the leader of Bracken. He is not a Baron, though.

:lowlol:

I forsee this going very smoothly. :D

[Lycos]

What we have formalized so far is the white box test scenario. If everything goes well, this is what will happen. I would recommend we spend some more time on the black box testing where we handle what happens when things go badly or just not right. I know this is more work, but I think that is what Sagar is looking for.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Whatever the black box is, you probably don't want Brun "improvising" in it, so give her pretty explicit directions. :P

[Sagar]

You guys haven't seen Felstaff in a long time. The chances of you getting his image correct is almost nil.

Baladir, you haven't been into the temple yet so you have no idea for what is there.

[Sagar]

Ok. so Fandango tries to break in. Trask keeps a watch below. Baladir is ready to intercept the posse'. Amaril will be ready to back up Trask if things go tits up.
Brunhilde will drink in the bar.

What will Solak do?

And what time do you want trigger all this?

As for detailed plans.. I am a firm believer in "When men plan, God laughs".

You can bet that things will not go perfectly (though, with the luck you guys have, someone will accidentally drop the book out the window while dusting it). If it doesn't, react as it happens. For planning probably won't help much.

Sorry, I was at a training class all day.

[Asharad]

Yeah, that sounds about right.

I figure about 3 am?

[Lycos]

Brun's with me. If she is drinking, she'll miss everything.

[Sagar]

Is Baladir going to wear his plate armor?

[Lycos]

Is Baladir going to wear his plate armor?

Yes. If anyone asks, I tell them that I am just checking it out. And that I feel weird without it on, at times. :mrgreen:

Also, I have been to the temple right after the contest. I made a donation and prayed there for a while. So, I do know the temple as a visitor. And I assume that since we haven't been gone that long, and there is no active construction, the places I went to before should be the same.

Also, as a paladin of Pelor, I should know that there are specific rooms for one purpose or another, just like I know that a christian church will normally have a choir room connected or in close proximity of the chapel, and that there is usually a room for the pastor to prepare right off of the chapel as well.

[Sagar]

True.. I had forgetten you went there.

You have an idea about the public areas on the first floor. The chapel is actually 3 stories high. You don't know much about the less public areas. Typically, the office / study areas are on one side, the living areas on the other side, and the chapel is in the middle. Based on that, there shouldn't be anyone on the office / library side unless you get very unlucky.

[Lycos]

Let's do it. :D