[D&D] PerrySimm says, "Log on."

Fincul has arrived.

GM has arrived.

Skalheth has arrived.

Kaylee has arrived.

Fincul chuckles at Kaylee's @desc.

Kaylee says, "OK, problems with one of our computers; reboot time..."

Kaylee exits stage left.

Skalheth asks (of Fincul), "What colour is that ioun stone?"

Fincul catches it, to get a closer look.

Fincul says, "Ah. Yellow."

Fincul smiles, and tosses it back in place.

Fincul asks, "Oh, did you want to look at it?"

Skalheth says, "Nah. I'm just a little colorblind."

Skalheth says, "Think it's the orc blood."

Brianna has arrived.

Fincul nods. "I've got a blue one, as well."

Onyx says, "Arrgh."

Skalheth asks, "Really?"

Fincul pats his pockets. "It's around here someplace, probably. Ah, yes. Right there."

Skalheth asks, "Or a blue one nudge nudge wink wink?"

Kaylee has arrived.

[D&D] Kaylee has joined the channel.

[D&D] Onyx has joined the channel.

[D&D] GM says, "ok, well, I guess Matthew can join in when he unidles"

Fincul pulls out a blue sphere and hands it to Skalheth. There's a curved line painted on it in black, with two dots above the curve. The shape is roughly like ): .

Onyx says (to GM), "per your suggestion, I'm dropping mounted combat and archery."

GM asks (of Onyx), "okey dokes -- what are you replacing them with?"

Onyx says (to er,), "prob'ly weapon increase ability (I'll go look up what its called - brb)"

[D&D] Skalheth says, "So suddenly we have 5? Quite a jump."

GM says, "meanwhile, back in the inn, Fincul is finally completing his spell"

[D&D] GM says, "I'll be working Onyx & Kaylee in in a bit"

Fincul exclaims, "Video, videre, *visus*!"

Fincul lays his hands on the runes on the crate.

GM says (to Fincul), "it appears that it's the mark of some sort of summoning spell, as mentioned, to bring in the contents from another, similar case. The command-phrase appears to be "Blood and bone, steel and stone, dark heart's own.""

[D&D] Fincul asks, "Do I know anything about the other case?"

[D&D] GM says, "no, although you can tell by the spell that it would have to be a similarly-sized case with matching markings on it; if you saw the other one you could identify it but you can't tell where it is or anything from here"

[D&D] Fincul nods. "But I know it's itself going to magical, and thus not one we just sold off, at least? :)"

[D&D] GM says, "yeah, it should radiate magic similar to this"

Fincul reaches for the ring, next.

Fincul peers into the gem, while caressing the gold band with his fingers.

[D&D] Skalheth turns his font size up to 16. The letters are still a little blurry.

[D&D] Fincul says (to Skalheth), "The alphabet is elvish, of an ancient kind."

GM says, "The ring appears to be designed as some kind of identifier; the ring tingles when someone wearing a ring with a matching gem is nearby"

Fincul sets down the ring and picks up the scrollcase.

Fincul rolls the cylinder between his hands, while focusing his meditation within it.

[D&D] Skalheth says, "I'm sorry. I gotta drop out."

[D&D] Fincul asks, "Sleep?"

[D&D] Alex says (to Fincul), "Awwwk! Word on the street is that sleep is something that no real programmer needs."

[D&D] Skalheth says, "Yeah, I'm about to collapse here."

[D&D] GM says, "oops"

[D&D] Fincul says, "Oof."

[D&D] GM says, "well, don't kill yourself here"

[D&D] Skalheth says, "Sucks, cause I like these characters and I was looking forward to this game."

[D&D] GM says, "we will check in on you next week, perhaps"

[D&D] Skalheth says, "Thanks. Have fun."

[D&D] Skalheth waves.

Skalheth has disconnected.

Skalheth goes home.

GM says, "And the scrollcase is not itself magical, but it's protected by a warding spell set to activate if someone "other than the case's owner" opens it. It's not quite clear what the warding is, but it seems to involve fire and force"

Fincul takes a deep breath, sets the case down, and exhales slowly.

Fincul asks, "Phew. That was something. What time is it?"

Fincul says, "Skalheth? Ska-- oh."

GM says, "Arly is sound asleep, and it looks like Skalheth has dropped off also"

GM says, "by which you deduce it is in the wee hours of the morning"

[D&D] Fincul asks, "Hmm. Would I need to have a special skill to write in a simple code?"

[D&D] Kaylee says, "You have to take Pig Latin as a separate language."

[D&D] GM says, "probably not, no"

Fincul notes down his findings by the last light of the special dribbly candles, and sends himself to bed.

[D&D] Fincul says, "(Well, putting away the Stuff first, of course.)"

GM says, "You sleep soundly and don't wake up until late the next morning, when you see Arly and Skalheth are gone"

Fincul exclaims, "Written runes, what has happened here!"

Fincul blinks a few times, before realizing that since they went to sleep before him, they ought to be up before him.

Fincul says, "Oh. Right."

Fincul yawns, and sets to studying his spellbook for the morning, assuming they'll be back shortly.

GM says, "eventually Arly comes back, with two strangers in tow"

GM says, ""Friend of mine," he says, jerking his finger at the taller one with the pendant. "Said she was going to Mor's End anyway. Don't know who her friend is.""

Fincul says, "Ah, good morning. I was just finishing up here."

Onyx says, "This's Kaylee. She's all right."

Kaylee exclaims, "Hi!"

Fincul says, "Aha, a pleasure to meet you. The more the merrier in the swamps, I say."

Onyx says, "Right."

GM says, "Arly examines Kaylee's bright colors with some suspicion. "Not quite sure about how she dresses, but any friend of yours.""

GM says, ""Skalheth wanted to go off early into the swamp -- said he'd meet us in the city if he didn't catch us before.""

[D&D] Fincul asks, "So who's which? Kaylee is lps, and the tall one's Sara?"

GM says, ""Oh, and Mendrick's dead.""

Fincul asks, "That all sounds perf-- wait, what?"

[D&D] GM says, "Onyx the barbarian and Kaylee the monk, yeah"

[D&D] Onyx says, "Yup, I went all the way and am now a grunting barbarian. Expect monosyllabic conversation, friends. :-)"

Fincul says, "How did that happen? I hope it wasn't anything we did."

Kaylee asks, "Mendrick?"

GM says, "Arly jerks his thumb outside. "Saw a bunch of guards standing around one of the inns -- asked around, said one of their patrons got killed in the night. Tuned out to be him.""

Kaylee asks, "How terrible! Was he a friend of yours?"

Fincul says (to Kaylee), "Merchant. Untrustworthy, conniving, a bit of a scoundrel. But probably didn't really deserve *this*."

Fincul shakes his head. "I wouldn't be surprised if it was his scheming ways that got him in the end."

Kaylee asks, "Did he work with you?"

[D&D] Fincul asks, "Are we staying at the same in he was?"

[D&D] GM says, "no, but nearby"

Fincul says, "He hired us to guard his shipment, a week or two ago. He tried to get out of paying us, though. We had to chase him from Mor's to here before we could corner him."

Fincul says, "We should find out what happened to the rest of his cargo. We weren't the only ones he cheated; it'd be fair if he could make posthumous restitution."

Kaylee says, "So you got your money before he died, at least."

Fincul pockets the stone floating near him, replacing it with a blue one.

Fincul says, "Indeed. But if he'd only remained in Mor's End and kept up his accounts, rather than seeking greater fortune, he'd likely still be alive today."

Kaylee sighs heavily.

Fincul packs up his things. "We should stop by the inn where he was staying before we go to the swamp."

Kaylee asks, "Wow, you need a crate to carry stuff around? Isn't that awkward?"

GM asks, "right, so you guys head over to Mendrick's inn?"

Fincul chuckles to Kaylee.

(From Kaylee) You notice that Kaylee isn't carrying much of anything at all, though her aqua and purple cloak might conceal a pouch or two.

Fincul exclaims (at Innkeeper), "Good morning!"

Fincul says, "Or... good midday! Or something like that, in any case."

GM says, "The innkeeper shakes his head sadly. "Very bad for business, very bad -- what can I do for you, sir?""

Fincul says (to Innkeeper), "I had come to enquire after some goods that were left behind by a recent patron of yours."

Fincul says, "Er, we had, I should say."

GM says, ""Oh? And what patron would that be?""

Fincul says, "A merchant by the name of 'Mendrick' -- unfortunately, news has come to us that he recently passed away."

GM says, "The innkeeper goes back to shaking his head sadly. "Very bad for business, that -- you were friends of his?""

Fincul says, "Business associates; not friends, but still saddened to hear of his misfortune."

Fincul says, "He had some crates of cargo here that he had planned to have shipped to Mor's End by the barge."

GM says, ""I'm not sure it can be called misfortune, exactly -- I just don't understand how anyone like that could have got into his room--""

Fincul asks, "Into his room?"

[D&D] Fincul says (to Kaylee, Onyx), "I'm not trying to monopolize, BTW -- feel free to jump in."

GM says, ""That is where he was killed, yes.""

[D&D] Kaylee says, "That's OK; we dont' know him."

GM says, ""But, er, if you're just interested in his stuff, I believe he had it stored out in the stables""

GM says, "The innkeeper gestures vaguely. "Would you like to see it?""

Fincul says, "I'd like to make arrangements to have it delivered on the barge, if he hasn't already -- would it be alright if I paid you, and you could pay the porters and so forth? With a bit extra to compensate you for your time, of course."

GM says, ""That seems fair enough -- what barge did you want it shipped out on?""

Fincul says, "The one to Mor's End -- here, I'll give you the address, so the crates can be delivered when they arrive."

Fincul tears a page from his notebook, writes a brief note to the innkeeper in ME explaining things, folds it up, and writes the address on the outside.

GM says, ""Right then, sir.""

(From Fincul) 'Mendrick deceased. No money, just cargo. Rope value should cover room. We'll collect our share on return. -Fincul'

Fincul says, "Right."

Fincul pays the man.

Fincul asks (of Arly, et al), "Is there anything else we should do before we leave? Paying last respects, or somesuch?"

GM says, "You hand over some coins to the merchant (funds are getting a touch low here, but you should be fine for now)"

GM says, "Arly shrugs. "Unless you want to see his room, I believe we are done. I have more rations for the trip back.""

Kaylee asks (of innkeeper), "You say you don't know how they got in? Was the door still locked?"

[D&D] Fincul asks, "It's only a handful of gp, right? Under a dozen?"

[D&D] GM says, "right"

GM says, ""Exactly," he says. "And blood splattered all over the walls. Not a pleasant sight.""

[D&D] Fincul says, "So I should still have close to 200 gp left :)"

Kaylee asks, "Windows?"

[D&D] GM says, "erf, sorry, I should have said something about that -- the low money thing is on *purpose*, so if you could pick up some items to cut that in half, I would appreciate it"

GM says, ""Closed, but he was on the second floor, so.""

[D&D] Fincul says, "Oh, OK. Just assume I have done, then, and I'll pick some stuff out later."

[D&D] GM says, "alrighty, thanks"

Fincul says, "Sounds like magic, then."

Fincul says, "Or possibly some sort of extraplanar beasties. They can be unpleasant when disturbed."

GM says, ""What, in my inn?" The innkeeper looks around nervously. "Don't repeat that sort of thing!""

Fincul asks (of Kaylee), "Did you want to look into it?"

[D&D] Fincul asks, "Would an Arcane Lore check be worth trying?"

Kaylee says, "Sure, I might be of some help."

Kaylee asks, "Upstairs, you said?"

[D&D] GM says, "well, you can know without a check that there exist things that could do that, but they're not exactly common"

[D&D] GM says, "that = teleport into someone's inn room"

[D&D] Fincul nods.

GM says, ""Here, I'll take you up," the innkeeper says, hastily."

GM says, "He brings you upstairs and unlocks the door."

GM says, "The guard standing by the door says "What's this?", but allows you on past when the innkeeper says "Friends of his.""

Kaylee says (to innkeep), "(quietly) You know, since whatever might have killed him might go after his business partners, can you not mention that they came calling? We won't mention any possible supernatural infestations here, either."

Kaylee looks around the room.

Fincul says, "Mmm. Sensible lass, that. Useful in this modern day and age."

Onyx fingers her axe.

GM says, "The room inside is indeed a mess -- it wasn't much of a luxury room before, but now sheets have been ripped off the bed, the mattress torn open, the bed yanked to one side, and splatters of blood everywhere"

GM says, "one of the sheets has been folded over what must be Mendrick's body, also on the floor"

Onyx experimentally lifts a corner of the bed, to get a feel for its weight.

Fincul shies away from the body.

GM says (to Onyx), "you could have moved it, yeah, but it's pretty heavy"

Kaylee looks to see if the windows have been opened.

[D&D] (from Fincul) Kaylee says, "Can I use some of those skill points on an Autopsy skill or Investigative Diagnosis skill that I can use here?"

GM asks (of Kaylee), "well, they're definitely closed now, and you see a latch on the inside -- were you looking for something in specific?"

[D&D] Kaylee exclaims, "Hee!"

Kaylee asks, "I assume they're latched now, from the inside? No trails of blood leading out the window, for example?"

Fincul casts Detect Magic, while the others are investigating.

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "Does Arly have track? Can he check stuff?"

GM says (to Fincul), "Nothing -- but it's possible traces could have faded overnight"

[D&D] Fincul says, "Mm, good thought."

GM says, "Arly says "Let me take a look.""

GM says, "He drops to his knees and begins examining the floor minutely."

GM rolls 1 20-sided die: 11 | 11 + 5 = 16

GM says, ""Scratches on the floor here -- from the bed moving, but also something else --""

GM says, ""Nothing on the windows -- haven't been opened for weeks" (he stares at the innkeeper accusingly, who mutters something about the cold weather""

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Heh."

GM says, "Finally Arly stands again. "Someone came in -- not exactly sure how -- grabbed Mendrick, shook him a bit -- you can see the marks on the wall by the bed where he banged his head -- then must have killed him and tossed him to the ground -- ripped open his throat, looks like""

GM says, ""I don't know if it was an interrogation gone bad or what. But then he -- whoever it was -- searched the room for something, and then left. I don't know how.""

Onyx asks, "Was Mendrick large?"

GM says, ""Not as large as you," Arly says. "Maybe as large as Fincul, but chubbier.""

Fincul says, "Hrm."

Onyx asks (of Arly), ""Any claw marks? Maybe hobnail boot treads?"

GM says, ""Maybe claws, yeah -- maybe just spiked boots. Hard to tell on this floor.""

GM says, ""But his throat was definitely ripped by teeth.""

Fincul says, "So, whatever it was apparently didn't know *where* the item it sought was, only that Mendrick had possibly once had it."

Onyx says, "Kinda dumb to off yer only source of infermation."

Onyx shakes her head.

Fincul says, "Ah. Er. Yes. Unless he's already told you... everything you need to know."

Onyx says, "Poor bastard."

Fincul looks less than comfortable at the moment.

Kaylee goes over to Mendrick, passes her hand over his eyes, and murmurs, "May the wind speed your soul to heaven, where your breath may never falter again."

GM says, "The innkeeper is looking a bit nervous, or possibly just nauseated. "Er, are you done here?""

[D&D] Fincul asks, "Can I strap the crate to my back, so that it's under the robe?"

Kaylee says, "I think so. Let's go."

[D&D] GM says, "it's about one foot on a side, maybe a little more -- I mean, you'll look like a hunchback, but I guess you can if you want"

Onyx says, "Thanks fer yer help, Inkeep. Goddess bless."

Fincul says, "Let me just quickly adjust this..."

Fincul does what he was considering, thus freeing up his hands.

Fincul wriggles his shoulders a bit until it's settled right. "There. OK, that should be much better."

GM says, "The innkeeper ushers you out of the room. "They couldn't find anything either," he says to the guard. "How much longer before I can clean the room?""

Onyx says, "Yeah, that blood'll set if you don't get it up real quick."

GM says, "The innkeeper looks pained at the thought. "Whitewash," he mutters, "Must remember to get whitewash.""

[D&D] Kaylee exclaims, "Hee!"

Kaylee swings by the stables on the way out.

Fincul checks the position of the sun, not wanting to set out *too* late.

[D&D] Kaylee says, "(to look at the cargo)"

GM says, "The stables are biggish, with a couple skittish-looking horses in stalls and an area at the back set off for storage, with various people's trunks and crates there"

GM says (to Fincul), "it looks like it's about noon"

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "Anything disturbed?"

[D&D] Fincul asks, "Aside from me, after having to look at all that bloody mess?"

[D&D] Fincul shudders.

GM says (to Kaylee), "hrm, now that you mention it, it looks like a pile of crates has been restacked somewhat sloppily, with the lids on them not quite set on properly"

Kaylee asks (of Fincul), "Was this bit yours?"

Fincul peers at them.

GM says (to Fincul), "they do look a bit familiar, yes"

Fincul says, "Those look roughly like Mendrick's crates, yes."

Kaylee peeks in one.

Fincul asks, "Do you see rope?"

GM says (to Fincul), "and, more to the point, there's a sheet of paper with "MENDRICK" written on them tucked underneath"

GM says (to Kaylee), "piles of rope have been stuffed untidily into the crate"

Onyx says, "Mmm. Rope."

Onyx says, "Handy stuff, rope."

Kaylee says, "Welp, better get moving."

Fincul says, "Indeed."

GM says, "Okay then"

Fincul says, "Let us off to Mor's End, then."

GM says, "You guys head into the swamp"

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "What's the URL for the map again?"

[D&D] Fincul says, "http://tinyurl.com/bg1d"

GM says, "It seems like only yesterday that you were here -- the familiar trees, the reminiscent sucking mud, the shadows and the bushes, the nerve-making distant rustling"

[D&D] Fincul almost just pasted the URL to the transcript page, before remembering who was asking.

[D&D] Kaylee exclaims, "Hee!"

Fincul says, "Ah, the swamp. Teeming with life. And mud. And ... mud."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Thanks."

GM says, "The light dims as you continue to travel -- the canopy overhead already shields some out, so as the early afternoon turns into mid-afternoon, it gets darker and darker"

Fincul whistles a melancholy tune.

[D&D] Fincul says, "AFK a moment."

Onyx says, "Kaylee, yer robes are gettin' muddy."

Kaylee says, "Oh, pretty! I don't know that one."

Kaylee says, "Ah, so they are."

[D&D] DorianX has joined the channel.

GM says, "Arly raises a hand, suddenly. "I hear something coming," he says. And indeed, a short while later you can hear a distant branch snap off the west side of the path."

[D&D] Fincul says, "Back."

Onyx looks in the direction of the sound.

Fincul takes a step east.

GM says, "This is matched, a few moments later, by a crash to the east"

GM says (to Onyx), "it's hard to tell, through the bushes and the growing shadows, but there does seem to be something largish coming this way"

Fincul casts Magic Motes.

GM says, "Fincul is surrounded by a cloud of motes."

GM says, "or two, anyway"

Fincul mimes placing two objects in front of him, making a small 'pop' noise with each one.

Kaylee steps back obligingly.

GM says, "Arly puts his hand on his sword. "I don't know if we want to risk running -- we might lose the path. Then again, I don't know if we can afford the delay.""

Fincul says, "We can run forwards, if they're off to the sides."

Onyx says (to Arly), "I'll take the left, you take the right. Iffen its just the two of 'em, we can take 'em, I figger."

[D&D] Fincul says, "That assumes we're going northeast, which I guess isn't necessarily the case."

[D&D] GM says, "you're going north-ish, yeah"

[D&D] GM says, "er, northeast-ish"

Fincul says, "Right."

GM says, ""Right then." Arly draws his sword, and faces off the path."

Fincul says, "You two do that, and we two'll go this way."

Fincul moves further down the path, away from the noises.

GM says, "There is a crash, and a large club smashes the bushes by Onyx out of the way. The ogre on the other side snarls when he sees her."

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "So we're organizing a subdued retreat?"

Onyx swings her axe, making shhhhhinng noises with it.

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Or, no, looks like a fight ;-)"

[D&D] GM says, "well, you can retreat if you want -- if you don't want, you should roll initiative"

Onyx rolls 20-sided dice: 16 | 16

[D&D] Fincul says, "I'm just moving out of immediate striking range, since I have ranged attacks."

Fincul rolls 1 20-sided die: 2 | 2

[D&D] Onyx says, "16+6=22"

[D&D] GM says, "initiative, you recall, being d20 + dex modifier + 4 if you have improved initiative"

Kaylee rolls 20-sided dice: 15 | 15 + 3 = 18

[D&D] GM says (to Onyx), "you can actually roll 1d20+6 directly, but that's fine"

[D&D] GM says (to Onyx), "ok, so roll away -- you roll 1d20 + 2 str + 3 BAB + 1 masterwork axer"

[D&D] Fincul says, "Arr, AFK again. Good thing I've low init."

[D&D] Onyx says, "1d20 + 2 str +3 bab + 1 weapon focus, +1 great axe"

[D&D] GM says, "er, right. +2 weapon focus, actually"

Onyx rolls 1 20-sided die: 9 | 9 + 7 = 16

[D&D] GM says, "but it's a hit in any case"

[D&D] Kaylee says, "I think weapon focus is +1 attack, and the other is +2 damage."

Onyx rolls 1 12-sided die: 6 | 6

[D&D] GM says, "hunh, really? hey, you're right"

[D&D] GM says, "6 + 3 str"

GM says, "The ogre roars as Onyx smacks him one in the shoulder with her axe."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "(+2 str, I believe)"

[D&D] Onyx says, "er? I thought it was +2 strenght (strength being 14)"

[D&D] GM says, "sigh"

[D&D] Onyx says, "I'm happy to be wrong in this case though. :-)"

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Not that she won't take the extras ;-)"

[D&D] GM says, "right, I'll just let you guys handle it"

[D&D] GM asks (of Kaylee), "anyway, your move?"

[D&D] Kaylee exclaims, "Hee!"

[D&D] Kaylee says, "I'll try the double attack."

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "I get them both at once?"

[D&D] GM says, "yeah"

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "So if my normal's +5, a -2 -2 is +3/-2, or +3/+3?"

[D&D] GM says, "+3/+3"

[D&D] Kaylee says, "(2 base attack, +3 dex)"

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Alrighty then."

Kaylee attacks with a flury of blows.

Kaylee rolls 1 20-sided die: 9 | 9 + 3 = 12

Kaylee rolls 1 20-sided die: 13 | 13 + 3 = 16

[D&D] GM says, "the first is a miss, the second is a hit"

Kaylee rolls 1 6-sided die: 2 | 2

Kaylee manages to get in a nice kick to the stomach.

GM says, "The ogre goes "oof!""

[D&D] Kaylee says, "(rp'ing unarmed attacks as punches and kicks, just 'cause)"

GM says, "Arly takes a step over to this side of the path and swings his sword."

GM rolls 1 20-sided die: 12 | 12 + 8 = 20

GM rolls 1 8-sided die: 5 | 5 + 4 = 9

GM says, ""Ha!" he says, opening up a matching gash in the ogre's other shoulder."

GM says, "The ogre roars in pain."

GM says, "Meanwhile, Fincul watches from the safety of up the path."

[D&D] Fincul says, "(Partially AFK right now.)"

Fincul points at the water at one of the ogre's feet. "Anathermica!"

Fincul rolls 1 20-sided die: 4 | 4 + 1 = 5

GM says, "The ogre steps aside some, as the mud behind it freezes into ice"

GM says, "(and now next round -- everyone else keeps their initiatives, and I'll roll for the ogre)"

GM rolls 1 20-sided die: 12 | 12 - 1 = 11

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "Not the most nimble ogre in the world, is he?"

[D&D] GM says, "so Onyx again, then Kaylee, then ogre, then Arly"

Onyx rolls 1 20-sided die: 2 | 2 + 7 = 9

[D&D] GM says (to Kaylee), "I don't think that's the major qualification when you're an ogre"

GM says, "The ogre roars again as he brings up his club to deflect Onyx's axe-blow"

Kaylee rolls 1 20-sided die: 19 | 19 + 3 = 22

Kaylee rolls 1 20-sided die: 18 | 18 + 3 = 21

Kaylee rolls 1 6-sided die: 4 | 4

Kaylee rolls 1 6-sided die: 6 | 6

Kaylee spins around, hitting the ogre with both a fist and a kick on her second revolution.

GM says, "The ogre blinks twice and then slowly topples over backwards."

Kaylee exclaims, "Ha!"

GM says, "Arly spins around just as the second ogre steps onto the path from the other side."

GM rolls 1 20-sided die: 14 | 14 - 1 = 13

GM says, "And it swings its club at him."

GM rolls 1 20-sided die: 9 | 9 + 8 = 17

[D&D] Kaylee says, "(ow)"

GM says, "He takes the blow on his chest, but the metal clank suggests that his armor absorbed the force"

GM says, "Then he swings his longsword back"

GM rolls 1 20-sided die: 2 | 2 + 8 = 10

GM says, "But thrown off-balance, his return strike misses."

[D&D] GM asks (of Fincul), "you?"

GM says, "Fincul says "yow!" or something similar."

GM says, "next round, Onyx again"

Onyx rolls 1 20-sided die: 13 | 13 + 7 = 20

Onyx rolls 1 12-sided die: 8 | 8

GM says, "The ogre roars as Onyx chops at his chest. There is a distant answering roar."

Onyx exclaims, "Gotcha, you horseturd eater!"

GM asks, "Kaylee?"

Kaylee does a handspring across the path, landing a head-butt in the second ogre's stomach.

Kaylee rolls 1 20-sided die: 6 | 6 + 3 = 9

Kaylee rolls 1 20-sided die: 6 | 6 + 3 = 9

(From Kaylee) Sadly, this does nothing at all, and neither does her subsequent attempts to pummel the guy.

GM says, "Luckily the ogre's stomach is thickly wrapped in hides"

GM says, "Knocking Kaylee aside, it swings its club at Arly"

GM rolls 1 20-sided die: 3 | 3 + 8 = 11

GM says, "who ducks and dodges and otherwise isn't in the way"

GM says, "Then he strikes back with his sword"

GM rolls 1 20-sided die: 3 | 3 + 8 = 11

GM says, "But all his ducking and dodging has moved him out of the way"

[D&D] GM asks, "Fincul again?"

[D&D] GM says, "no? ok, next round, Onyx"

Fincul thrusts his palm towards the ogre. "Phosphorphotos!"

Fincul casts Flare.

[D&D] GM says, "ah, good"

GM says, "The ogre roars and beats at its face as a bright light flashes in front of it"

GM rolls 1 20-sided die: 10 | 10 + 6 = 16

Onyx rolls 1 20-sided die: 12 | 12 + 7 = 19

Onyx rolls 1 12-sided die: 7 | 7 + 2 = 9

GM says, "Onyx slams a matching gash in the ogre's chest to the first cash"

GM says, "(er, gash)"

Kaylee rolls 1 20-sided die: 15 | 15 + 3 = 18

Kaylee rolls 1 20-sided die: 17 | 17 + 3 = 20

Kaylee asks, "Ignore *me*, will you?"

Kaylee rolls 1 6-sided die: 1 | 1

Kaylee rolls 1 6-sided die: 6 | 6

Kaylee exclaims, "Whap!"

GM says, ""Arr! Grar!'"

Onyx exclaims, "Eat steel!"

GM says, "The ogre snarls and swings its club at Onyx."

GM rolls 1 20-sided die: 17 | 17 + 8 = 25

GM rolls 2 6-sided dice: 6 6 | 12 + 7 = 19

GM says, "The club practically knocks her off her feet"

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Now might be a good time to find out how man HP we have ;-)"

[D&D] GM says, "yeah"

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "Is level 1 max, then roll after that?"

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "Or just all rolls?"

[D&D] GM says, "you get max at first level, and then after that roll, rounding up stuff that's below average (rounded up) to average"

Onyx says, "Oooouffff! Goddess bless, that was a bad one."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Oh, nice."

[D&D] GM says, "(but, naturally, I'm rounding up the monsters also)"

Onyx rolls 2 12-sided dice: 6 10 | 16

Kaylee rolls 2 8-sided dice: 8 5 | 13

[D&D] Fincul says, "Back."

[D&D] GM asks, "so, er, 12 + 7 + 10 + 6?"

[D&D] Fincul asks, "This is our second ogre, right?"

[D&D] GM says, "yeah"

[D&D] GM says, "somewhat bashed up by now, but so is Onyx"

[D&D] Kaylee says, "That's 13+8+3 for me."

[D&D] Fincul asks, "And the third one hasn't arrived yet?"

[D&D] GM says, "alrighty"

[D&D] Onyx says, "so I have 34. (6+2, 10+2, 12 (base for first level) +2)"

GM says, "Arly charges in again with his sword"

GM rolls 1 20-sided die: 2 | 2 + 8 = 10

GM says, "But the ogre beats him off easily"

[D&D] GM says (to Fincul), "your turn again"

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "Was that a saving throw last time for the flash?"

[D&D] Fincul asks, "Can I keep a Flaming Sphere above water level, or would it jsut fizzle immediately?"

[D&D] GM says, "I think it'll fizzle, since the ogre's standing in a muddy area"

[D&D] GM says (to Kaylee), "yeah"

[D&D] Fincul says, "Fair enough. Mystic Bolt, then."

Fincul gestures with both hands. "Hava-shul!"

Kaylee exclaims, "Yeah, have at you!"

GM says, "The ogre shudders as the bolt strikes him in the chest, but doesn't quite fall"

GM says, "(next round)"

Onyx spits on the ogre.

Onyx rolls 1 20-sided die: 9 | 9 + 7 = 16

[D&D] GM says, "(hit)"

Onyx rolls 1 12-sided die: 3 | 3 + 2 = 5

GM says, "Onyx, recovering herself, charges in and her blow slices halfway through the ogre's neck, sending it toppling to the ground"

Onyx exclaims, "Die, waste-of-breath!"

GM says, "It falls with a crash, splashing more mud everywhere"

Kaylee pauses, listening for more noises from the swamp.

[D&D] Fincul says, "Hmm, for some reason I'd thought Onyx was a himself."

Kaylee says, "Drat, right on my sash."

GM says (to Kaylee), "roll listen"

[D&D] Fincul says, "(Possibly because I say Kaylee was a herself.)"

[D&D] Fincul says, "Er, saw."

Kaylee rolls 1 20-sided die: 12 | 12 + 2 = 14

[D&D] GM says, "(which is d20 + wis if you don't have the skill)"

[D&D] Onyx says, "She's mannish, true."

GM says (to Kaylee), "distant crashes -- hard to tell how far off, but not as near as these guys were"

Kaylee says, "I say we high-tail it out of here."

Fincul says, "No argument here."

Kaylee says, "Onyx looks pretty badly hurt."

Onyx exclaims, "I'm perfectly fine!"

Onyx says, "Or I will be in a bit."

GM says, ""Right," Arly says. He pulls a potion from his backpack and tosses it to Onyx. "Drink this.""

Fincul says (to Onyx), "If you need it, I can lend you an elixir or two."

Fincul says, "Or, indeed, Arly can."

Onyx eyes the bottle with suspicion. "What's this?"

GM says, ""Healing potion. Won't fix you all the way, but it'll help.""

Onyx says, "Potion? I dunno about that."

GM says, "Arly shrugs. "So save it.""

Onyx removes the stopper and sniffs.

GM says (to Onyx), "slightly spicy"

Onyx says, "Smells ok."

Onyx says, "Oh, what the heck. <sounds of chugging>"

GM says, "Meanwhile, Arly is bending down and slicing the hide belt pouches off the ogres."

[D&D] GM says (to Onyx), "restores 1d8+1 hp"

Onyx rolls 1 8-sided die: 2 | 2 + 1 = 3

(From GM) (distant crash, crash)

[D&D] Fincul asks, "A good night's sleep doesn't actually heal anything, right?"

Fincul says, "Let's keep moving, though."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "1 or 2 a day, I think."

[D&D] GM says, "no, it heals a hp or two, more if you're attended by someone with healing"

[D&D] Kaylee says, "More with a healer."

[D&D] Fincul says, "Even without full bed rest? Cool."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "(which I have)"

GM says, ""Right," Arly says."

Onyx says (to Arly), "Good brew, that. Thanks."

GM says, ""Picked up a couple here and there -- nice in case of emergencies""

GM says, "Arly starts heading back along the path."

Fincul says (to Arly), "Hey, while we're travelling..."

Kaylee brins up the rear.

[D&D] Kaylee says, "(brings)"

Onyx tromps along.

GM says, "Arly says (to Fincul) "Oh?""

Fincul holds out the ring. "This might be of some value to us, worn. Would you do the honors?"

Fincul says, "It won't work for me, I'm pretty sure. But it might for you."

GM says, ""If you say so," he says, taking it. "What's it do?""

Fincul says (to Arly), "It should tingle, if whatever it's linked to approaches. It came from that guy we met in the swamp yesterday, who was going the other way."

[D&D] Fincul says, "I'd offer it to a PC, but it seems weird entrusting it to someone I just met that morning."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Heh."

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "Why don't you think it'll work for me?"

GM says, ""I wonder what happened to him," Arly says. "I don't see hoof-marks on the path this far, but the mud doesn't always hold them.""

GM says, "He slips the ring onto his finger, rotated with the gem inside"

Kaylee asks (of Arly), "You saw them earlier?"

GM says, ""As we were coming in -- I stopped looking after a while since we were in a hurry""

[D&D] Fincul says (to Kaylee), "Oh, it'd probably work for you just fine. If Arly wants to let you wear it instead, that's fine, and I can IC trust Arly's judgement."

[D&D] Fincul says, "Er, except I guess it's Onyx he knows, not you."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Oops, I meant 'you'."

[D&D] Fincul says, "Oh, ah. It's the wrong school of magic; I gave up transmutation when I specialized in Evocation."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "That's an odd slip-up."

GM says, "and indeed, you're still in a hurry -- the oncoming night makes it harder and harder to see"

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Aha."

[D&D] GM says (to Fincul), "actually, you're ok with this, probably -- the specialist restrictions only covers stuff you have to activate with spell completion/trigger (scrolls, staves, wands) not stuff that's passive or command-word activated"

GM says, "It seems, at times, like eyes glimmer in the shadows off the path, and once you see a distant torch -- but eventually the swamp begins to lighten and you find yourselves outside the gate of Mor's End"

[D&D] Fincul says (to GM), "Oh, nifty. I'll assume that I learn that the next time I do research, then."

Fincul says, "Ah, good. I was starting to worry there."

GM says, "Which is currently open, but you see the gates starting to swing shut just as you arrive"

Fincul exclaims, "Ho there!"

Onyx sprints ahead to hold the gate

GM says, "The gates pause in their motion, and a guard steps out from inside. "You're just in time," he says gruffly. "You'd have had to go around to the traveller's gate if you came any later.""

Onyx says (to Guard), "Thanks."

Fincul says, "Indeed, our gratitude is with you."

GM says, "The guard pauses long enough for you all to step inside, and then he and his buddy finish pulling the gates shut, and swinging the bar into place"

Fincul hurries inside.

Kaylee asks, "Where *is* the traveller's gate?"

Fincul says, "To the southeast -- a ways from here, and across a river."

Onyx says, "Hungry."

Fincul says (to Onyx, Kaylee), "I don't know where your business in Mor's End takes you; ours leads to the Mage's Guild, and you're free to walk with us if you like."

Onyx asks, "Anyone for food?"

Kaylee exclaims, "I'm just here to help!"

Kaylee smiles brightly.

Fincul says, "After our errand is complete, I would gladly share a meal."

Kaylee asks, "I don't suppose you've heard of the city of Jisa, would you?"

Kaylee looks concerned.

[D&D] Fincul asks (of GM), "Have I?"

[D&D] GM says, "probably not, unless you're exceptionally well-travelled"

Fincul says, "No, not to my recollection."

Kaylee says, "Oh, good."

Fincul raises an eyebrow.

Kaylee says, "That means I'll be a long time getting back."

Fincul asks, "Ah. You are in an... 'un-hurry'?"

Kaylee laughs.

Kaylee says, "That's a good way of putting it. Those of us that take the longest on our Journey of the Winds always end up with the best tales to tell."

Onyx says, "I was traveling with my clan, when we were attacked. My group was separated from the rest, and my horse was shot out from under me. I was left for dead, and by the time I healed up, my clan had moved on."

Fincul exclaims (at Onyx), "That's terrible!"

Fincul . o O ( Wait. He probably knew that already. )

Onyx says, "And *I'm* called a barbarian. Kaylee helped me out some, so I'm traveling with her for a bit."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "'she' ;-)"

[D&D] Fincul says, "Er, right, she. Yes, she."

GM says, "With Fincul leading the way, you eventually arrive at the mage's guild."

Fincul says, "Ah, here it is. The first building I enquired about on arrival."

Fincul raps on the door.

Fincul says, "On my previous arrival here, I mean."

Fincul says, "With Mendrick and Arly and Skalheth, that is."

GM says, "There is a long pause, and then shuffling feet. The door swings open partway, and the old man sticking his face out wrinkles his nose. "Ah, Fincul, is it?" He looks you up and down. "Been in the swamp, I see.""

Fincul beams. "Indeed, you spy me well!"

Fincul says, "We're here to see a person by the name of 'Cassis'."

GM says, ""Espying you isn't necessary to make *that* deduction," he mutters. "Can I -- aha.""

GM says, ""Cassis is in one of the rooms upstairs -- did you have a delivery for him? He asked that they be left here.""

Fincul says, "I was told he would have further instruction for us on our errand."

Kaylee asks, "Did he come in on his horse?"

GM says, ""We stabled it at one of the inns -- the Boar and Bustard, I believe.""

Kaylee asks, "What's a Bustard?"

GM says, "The man looks back at Fincul. "I don't know -- the only thing he told me was if he got any packages, I should take care of them for him.""

Onyx asks, "So where is he?"

GM says, ""He's in his room upstairs -- I don't believe he's been out today, although he sent out for a meal.""

Onyx asks, "Then why are you standing in the way?"

[D&D] Kaylee exclaims, "Hee!"

GM says, "The man looks up at Onyx. "Because he didn't ask to see any visitors, m'lady.""

[D&D] Onyx says, "Maybe I *should* play Onyx as a man. Just for giggles."

Onyx asks, "Well, did he ask to *not* see any visitors?"

Fincul asks, "Did he also arrange payment for delivery with you?"

Kaylee says, "Well, hey--can you go ask him if he'll see us? We'll wait here."

GM says, "The man sighs. "Perhaps that would be best. Did you say you had a package for him?""

Fincul says, "I have a package, but I am not certain if it is for him, or if it is to be sent elsewhere."

Onyx exclaims, "I'm hungry, and this guy <jerks thumb at Fincul> wants ta yap first. So move!"

Fincul says, "In either case, payment is also to be made, although I do not know if by him or by the final recipient."

GM says, ""Ah, I see. Well, I will inform him.""

GM says, "The man swings the door shut and goes upstairs."

GM says, "(or at least does something while the door is shut)"

Fincul says (aside, to Arly), "Did you notice anything? With the ring?"

GM says, "Arly shakes his head. "Nothing at all. Er, assuming it's supposed to be noticable.""

[D&D] Fincul says, "It's amazing how much more suspicious I become in RPGs than in real life."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "It's because there's so much more shady dealings going on ;-)"

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Also, Plot."

GM says, "Eventually the man returns, with a pouch in one hand. "He said to thank you for the delivery, and to give you this in exchange.""

Fincul smiles. "Ah, thank you for taking the extra trouble. It's much appreciated."

GM says, "He hands the pouch to Fincul, which jingles slightly."

Fincul exchanges the scrollcase for it.

Onyx says (to Fincul), "Count that."

GM says, ""Ah, thank you. I will pass this on.""

Fincul says (to Onyx), "A wise suggestion."

GM says (to Fincul), "it's filled with platinum coins -- it looks like about 200 gold worth"

Fincul says (to Doorman), "Good evening to you."

[D&D] GM says, "(paying in platinum being roughly the equivalent of paying with hundred-dollar bills)"

Fincul tips his hat.

[D&D] Fincul says, "Nice."

GM says, ""And to you." The man swings the door shut."

Onyx asks, "What was in the chest?"

Fincul puts the money carefully away.

Fincul asks (of Onyx), "The... the scrollcase?"

[D&D] Onyx says, "d'oh. right. ne'er mind."

Fincul says, "Well, I think we can dine well tonight."

Onyx asks, "Soon. Where to?"

Fincul says, "I saw an Elvish place on the way over here that looked pretty good. Just a few streets back."

Kaylee asks, "Or the Bear and, uh, Bursitis?"

Fincul says, "Sure, your choice."

[D&D] GM says (to Kaylee), "hee hee"

[D&D] GM asks, "are you going to clean up first?"

Onyx says, "Thought it was the Bear and Bastard. Sounded good."

Kaylee says, "The Inn would have a place I could wash these clothes."

Onyx says (to Kaylee), "You and your fripperies. Girl, try leather, it hold up better."

Fincul asks (of Kaylee), "Do you think Onyx can last that long without a meal?"

Kaylee grins.

Fincul glances at Onyx, and back. "I wouldn't want to, you know, get in her way while she's that hungry..."

Onyx says (to Fincul), "I'll try not to kill anyone."

Kaylee says, "Off to the Bust and Mortar, then."

Onyx asks, "Bust-end Mortar? Where do they get these names?"

Fincul grabs his blue stone and replaces it with the yellow one again.

GM says, "You guys check into the inn and clean yourselves up, and then head over to the restaurant"

GM says, "where service is slow but the food is good"

Onyx sighs, and pats her stomach. "*That* was a meal."

Fincul says, "Mmm, yes. The herb-roasted chicken was excellent."

Kaylee asks, "So, where'd you get that ring?"

Fincul says, "Oh, from Cassis. Or at least, from the man who gave us the package for Cassis."

Fincul says, "Apparently as downpayment for the delivery. I've no idea what it's worth, but it is pretty."

Kaylee asks, "He didn't want it back?"

Onyx says, "Maybe its cursed. Ogr-bait, or some-such."

[D&D] Onyx says, "Ogre, rather."

Fincul shrugs. "I had expected to see him at the Mage's Guild, and to ask him then, but apparently he didn't intend to ask for it back."

Fincul says, "It seems odd that he would give us a curse, if he were concerned with the safety of the package we were carrying."

Kaylee nods.

Onyx grunts assent.

GM says, "Arly yawns. "Been a long day.""

GM says, "He looks over at Onyx. "You going to get that bash seen to?""

Onyx asks, "There a healer, here-abouts?"

Fincul says, "This is Mor's End. You can find anything in Mor's End, they say."

Fincul says, "Except for Mendrick, of course. We found him in Execks. But the principle is still sound, I think."

GM says, ""Not sure if they'll be thrilled about getting called now, but I expect healers are used to it""

[D&D] GM says, "(it being around 9:30 now)"

Kaylee says, "I can help with the bleeding, but magical healing would be faster."

Kaylee says, "(as you well know)"

Onyx says, "Sure. I'll meet you back at the inn."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "(she says, realizing that she spent several days healing Onyx earlier)"

Fincul says, "Alright. I've got something I'd like to try out myself."

Onyx says, "Iffen we're done here, I'm off."

Kaylee asks, "Need help?"

Onyx says, "I could use some company."

Kaylee says, "Sure."

Onyx exclaims, "And maybe some directions. Inkeep!"

Fincul says, "Oh, sure. I'm in no rush."

Fincul slaps Arly on the shoulder. "Let's tag along."

GM says, "The innkeeper comes over. "Can I help you, ma'am?""

Onyx asks, "Ahm lookin' to get this seen to. <points at bash> Where's the nearest temple or herb-woman?"

GM says, "Arly nods. "Might as well.""

GM says, ""Ooh, that looks nasty," he says, pursing his lips. "You probably want to see a priest for that -- two streets up that way, then take a right, it'll lead you right to a shrine"

Onyx says, "Right. Thanks, then."

Fincul asks, "Hey, afterwards... there's something I want to try that might be dangerous. Or it might not. Would you two mind coming along, in case it takes a turn for the worse and we need an extra hand?"

Onyx heads out.

Fincul says, "Y'know, if you're feeling better then and all."

Kaylee says, "No problem."

Onyx asks (of Fincul), "Sounds fun. Whatcha have in mind?"

Fincul says, "Oh, a little bit of summoning magic."

Onyx asks, "Summoning? Summoning what?"

Kaylee says (to Arly), "Let's hope the gold in those pouches is enough to heal up Onyx."

Onyx says, "Twice, if yer summoning goes bad."

Kaylee says, "That'd be nice and symmetrical."

GM says, "The four of you head for the shrine"

[D&D] Onyx says, "afk a moment"

Fincul grins. "Ah, that's why I was hoping for a hand -- I'm not sure what's going to show up."

GM says, "It has a two-headed snake in silver and gold picked out above the entrance, above the motto "Enter all who are wounded""

Fincul says, "Could be gold, could be powerful artifacts. Could be a blood-thirsty daemon from the nether dimensions."

Fincul says, "A little one, though. Probably."

[D&D] GM says, "hee hee"

Fincul asks, "If it's the gold, I'm sure we can spare a share for the help, of course. Right, Arly?"

GM says, "Arly nods. "Only fair -- share and share alike.""

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Can we fast forward a bit? Unless there's Plot here."

[D&D] GM says, "right, sorry, wasn't sure what was happening"

[D&D] Fincul asks, "Anyone other than Onyx need healing?"

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Heal Onyx, head back to the inn for some crate summonin'."

GM says, "The priest examines Onyx's wound. "I believe I can heal that," he says. "For a small donation -- say, sixty gold?""

[D&D] Kaylee says, "However much healing costs in these parts."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "(timing)"

[D&D] Fincul says, "Mmm. Cheaper than potions, I guess."

Onyx says, "Hmmpf. I suppose."

GM says, ""Excellent." The priest takes the money and places his hand on Onyx while chanting. Immediately she feels better."

GM says, ""Blessings and wisdom guide your steps," he says, bowing."

Fincul says, "Amazing. Just amazing."

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "Are we going to keep track of cash and stuff meticulously, vaguely, or not at all?"

[D&D] GM says, "vaguely, I suppose -- you each have around a hundred gold, plus this pouch of 200, and you've spent 60 of it"

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Eh, let's let all 5 of us be here for that decision."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Or, sure."

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "Not much from the ogres?"

[D&D] Fincul says, "I'm with vaguely, yeah."

GM says, "And then you head back to the inn, where Fincul puts the crate on the ground as everyone backs away."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Vaguely's fine with me--Kaylee's not interested in cash or posessions much, anyway ;-)"

Fincul says, a bit sheepishly, "This is the first time I've tried this. So I'm not certain if it will be entirely successful."

Fincul clears his throat.

Kaylee exclaims, "Neat!"

Fincul exclaims, "Blood and bone!"

Fincul exclaims, "Steel and stone!"

Fincul exclaims, "D-Dark heart's *own*!"

GM says, "As Fincul says the last words, there is a shadowy burst from the crate, which momentarily obscures it"

[D&D] Onyx says, "back"

GM says, "as the darkness fades, you see that the crate is now filled with a pile of weapons"

GM says, "somewhat untidily stacked"

Kaylee says, "Well, hey."

Fincul whistles.

[D&D] GM says, "(so clearly it must be more like a foot and a half on a side)"

Fincul says, "Not bad."

Onyx says, "Hmm."

Fincul picks up his spellbook. "Uh, I wonder if those are magic-type weapons..."

Kaylee walks over and picks up a sword. "Never had much use for these, myself."

Kaylee gives it a couple swings.

Onyx examines a smallish axe.

Fincul looks up Detect Magic, and starts working on it while Kaylee and Onyx check out the gear.

Onyx asks (of GM), "are these decent weapons? bad? above average?"

GM says, "There are, in total, a half-dozen daggers, three shortswords, two hand-axes, and a longsword"

GM says (to Onyx), "they're pretty clearly above-average quality"

Onyx notices the fine detail on the hand axe.

Kaylee asks, "So... where are they from?"

[D&D] Fincul asks, "Can I converse while studying, or do I need to be trance-like?"

GM says, "well, Onyx sees the maker's mark on them"

Onyx says, "Very nice. Good edge, too . . . Ouch!! . . . Yup, good edge."

[D&D] GM says, "you can chat a bit, yeah"

[D&D] Kaylee exclaims, "Hee!"

[D&D] Fincul says, "Also, drat. Do we need to heal Onyx *again*? :)"

Fincul says, "From... another crate, I think... someplace else..."

[D&D] Onyx says, "hee! no, no, not this time."

Fincul says, "Uh... may want to empty the crate... in case it's reversible..."

Kaylee asks, "Want to leave a note?"

Fincul asks, "...note?"

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "Also, does maker's mark mean that she knows generally where they came from?"

Kaylee says, "In the crate. If it's reversible."

Kaylee says, "Something like, "Thanks for the weapons! Who are you, anyway?""

Onyx asks, "Like, na na na na nah nah, or some-such?"

[D&D] GM says, "it's got a B in a triangle on it, it means"

[D&D] GM says, "if she saw more weapons with the same mark she'd recognize that, or someone knowledgable with the weaponsmith would probably know whose mark it is"

Fincul says, "Oh... uh... 'We bought your crate from someone; do you want to buy it back?' sort of thing? Sure."

[D&D] GM says, "but everyone can make up their own mark, so there's no big directory of marks or anything"

[D&D] Onyx says, "Barbarians are illiterate, but can recognize sigils or symbols. If it said "Made in China" she'd be out of luck."

Kaylee asks, "Where'd you get the crate, anyway?"

Fincul says, "...Mendrick..."

Kaylee raises an eyebrow.

Onyx says, "The guy with the ripped throat, right."

Onyx says, "Hope that inkeep got his white-wash."

Fincul nods distractedly. "Yeah, Mendrick."

[D&D] Fincul asks, "I assume we're back at the same inn as yesterday morning?"

[D&D] GM says, "sure, if you want"

Kaylee says, "If these weapons are magical, I'm guessing this is what Mr. Teleportation was after."

Fincul says, "Mmm... yeah... note good."

Kaylee says, "Which is, shall we say, somewhat disturbing."

GM says, "and at last Fincul is done with his memorization"

[D&D] Fincul says, "AFK briefly, though."

[D&D] Fincul says, "Back."

Onyx says, "Magic weapons. Hmm."

Fincul waves his hand in front fo his eyes. "Scopuli aurae..."

Fincul looks at the pile of weapons.

GM says (to Fincul), "the crate itself has fading traces of the summoning spell, and then two of the weapons -- one of the shortswords and one of the daggers -- both have auras of enchantment"

Fincul says, "There -- that sword, and that dagger."

Fincul focuses on the sword.

GM says, "they seem moderately powerful, though not dramatically more so or less so than other things you've seen"

[D&D] Fincul asks, "Should I roll to detect schools of magic?"

[D&D] GM says, "sorry, like I said, enchantment -- I'm still getting the hang of how detect magic works in 3e"

[D&D] Fincul says, "Oh, right. Sorry, I forgot 'enchantment' was a school, not just a state of being ensorcelled."

Fincul says, "Both that shortsword and this dagger are enchanted noticeably."

Fincul separates them from the rest, so they don't get confused.

Kaylee asks, "Would the summoning work again?"

Fincul, on a hunch, takes a look into the money pouch while his eyes are in the zone.

[D&D] Fincul asks, "Are the runes still in the crate?"

GM says, "The pouch seems normal enough; the ruins remain on the crate"

[D&D] Kaylee exclaims, "The crate's in ruins? Oh no!"

[D&D] GM says, "oof. runes."

[D&D] Onyx asks, "how's the money in the pouch? still platinum? or is it copper now?"

Fincul says (to Kaylee), "It should, if there's anything there to summon. Although the other crate is probably empty now."

[D&D] GM says, "nope, still platinum"

Fincul blinks a bit. "Is there anything you'd like me to look at for you, while my eyes are still tingling?"

[D&D] Onyx says, "yay"

Kaylee writes a note saying, "Hi! We bought this crate and discovered its magical properties. Would you like to buy it back? Write something below."

Kaylee sticks the note into the crate.

[D&D] GM says, "ok, so how are people doing on time? this would be a good place to stop, but I guess I've got another hour or so if you want to continue"

[D&D] Fincul says, "I'm fine either way."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Same here."

Fincul asks, "I wonder what the original owners intended to do with the crate. Was it just an accident it was used to pack mundane goods, or was someone trying to smuggle it in -- or out -- of someplace?"

[D&D] GM says, "alrighty then, on for a bit"

Fincul says, "In any case, I can learn more about the sword and the dagger, but it's a difficult and expensive process."

Onyx asks, "How expensive, and what would it get us?"

Fincul says, "I suggest we not make the expenditure until we have more to investigate, to make more efficient use of resources."

Fincul says (to Onyx), "Nearly a dozen of these platinum coins would buy the materials, and I would need to spend half the day focused on it."

Fincul says, "But we would be able to learn, at least roughly, what the magic implanted in these weapons might do."

Kaylee nods.

Kaylee asks, "Well, you guys have any other unfinished business?"

Onyx says, "Look at that ring, while you're at it."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "(She says, having read the transcript OOC ;-)"

[D&D] Fincul asks, "If I identified one of the abilities of a magical object, but it had a second, stronger ability, would I be able to tell that what I ID'ed wasn't the same as the strong aura I detected earlier?"

Fincul says (to Onyx), "Indeed, I already have. It has transmutation magics within it."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "(and thinking about the stones in the swamp)"

[D&D] GM says (to Fincul), "it's true that that the power you identified seems more like divination magic than transmutation"

Fincul says, "It seems to be able to recognize when a similar ring draws near."

Fincul says, "Although I know not who holds the its matched mate."

Onyx says, "Ah. So they'd know us, too, then. Hmm."

[D&D] Fincul says, "Aha. I had just assumed that was the source materials being weird about classifying spells :)"

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Heh."

[D&D] Fincul asks, "If I ID'ed the ring a second time, now that I know about the one purpose, would I be able to detect a second ability, if it has one?"

[D&D] Onyx says, "afk. Ellric just said, "Play, me, Momma" and is pulling on my arm. I can't deny such cutie. :-)"

[D&D] Fincul says (to Onyx), "You don't know how strange those things sound coming from 'Onyx'."

Fincul says, "There may be more that the ring can do; I'm uncertain. It may be worth giving it further attention."

[D&D] GM says, "hrm, it looks like you can identify other "equally basic" functions of the object with further use of the spell, but to identify fancier features you'll need a higher-level spell"

[D&D] Fincul asks, "Can I tell from the aura strength whether or not the Trans power is sufficiently basic for me?"

[D&D] GM says, "sure, you could probably identify it with a second casting"

Fincul says, "I could attempt it tomorrow, if you wished to pool our funds to cover the cost."

[D&D] Onyx says, "back"

[D&D] Onyx says (to Fincul), "Then I guess I'm doing a good job of playing in character. Cool. :-)"

Fincul says, "Of course, we can leave that decision until then, and sleep on it for now."

Fincul says, "Er, yes. Alright then."

GM says, "The four of you head off to sleep, then"

GM asks, "what are you doing with the weapons and the crate?"

[D&D] Fincul says, "Hiding them under separate beds sounds good to me."

[D&D] Onyx says, "Eat them - good source of iron."

[D&D] Fincul says, "To increase the chance one of us is woken if anyone tries to swipe them."

[D&D] GM says, "hee hee"

[D&D] Fincul says, "But Onyx's suggestion has merit if one of us has turned into a rock mole, yes.."

[D&D] Onyx exclaims, "ha!"

GM says, "ok then"

GM says, "You wake up the next morning bright and early"

Fincul yawns, stretches.

Fincul begins his morning studies.

Kaylee does her morning meditation.

Onyx runs through some stretching excersises and basic calisthenics.

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "Have we met up with Skaleth, or whatever his name was?"

Onyx says, "Ahma get some food."

GM says, "Arly is downstairs in the common room having some bread and cheese"

Onyx joins Arly for breakfast.

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Did you want to tell us about the stones in the swamp? If you do, and there's nothing else pressing, I'd be up for investigating."

Fincul will catch up with them when he's finished studying.

[D&D] Fincul says, "Oh, right, you don't know about them."

[D&D] Fincul says, "Yeah, that sounds like a good idea."

Onyx asks (of Arly), "Nice ogre fight yesterday. Show me that dodge you did, eh?"

GM says, "Arly nods. "We got lucky there once or twice," he says. "Sorry we didn't get lucky all the time.""

Fincul says (to Onyx, Arly), "Ah, good morning."

Onyx says (to Arly), "The Goddess was with us. But so were we."

Onyx says, "Morning, Finc."

Fincul asks, "How's the breakfast this morning?"

Onyx says, "Filling."

GM says, "Arly tosses over a small loaf of bread."

Fincul says, "Thanks."

Fincul breaks bread, eats.

GM says, ""So what now?" Arly asks."

Fincul says, "Well, we've finished our errand, and we've got the day ahead of us."

Fincul says, "If we can locate Skalheth, it'd be a good opportunity to check out those stoens we spotted the other day."

Kaylee asks, "Stones?"

Fincul says (to Kaylee), "Mmhmm -- on our way to Execks, we spotted what looked like marker stones, set into the ground a short ways off the path."

Fincul says, "We were in a hurry, and didn't have time to investigate them at the time."

Kaylee asks, "Interesting. Could we investigate and be back before dark?"

Fincul says, "I think so -- depending on what we find, of course. It was only a few hours out of town, and it's still early right now."

Onyx says, "I could sharpen my axe on more ogres."

Onyx says, "And spend more money on gettin healed up, after."

Fincul asks, "How much money did those ogres have yesterday?"

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "Should we gather up stuff, and investigate next time, so everyone can be here?"

Fincul says, "I imagine it probably wasn't enough to pay for the damage they caused."

GM says, ""A good question," Arly says. He goes upstairs and comes down with two pouches, which he spills onto the table."

[D&D] Fincul says, "Yeah, I think Skalheth should be here when we go into the swamp."

Onyx says, "Don't suppose Mor's End places bounties on ogres. We coulda brung in their ears."

[D&D] Fincul says, "Arly too, but especially Skalheth, since he's got the whole swampy orcy druid vibe."

Fincul says, "Mmm. We should enquire of the authorities about that."

GM says, "Not too bad -- between the two of them, thirty gold"

GM says, "(some of it in smaller coins, naturally)"

Kaylee says, "Well, half the cost of taking it from them. But worth getting away, of course."

Onyx says, "That's a lot of folk they robbed. Glad we got 'em."

Fincul says, "Mmm. A better bargain than I'd expected."

Onyx says, "Let's go back for the other one."

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "Anyone? Are we done?"

Fincul says, "Alright, it's decided, then."

[D&D] GM says, "I guess done, yeah, unless somebody else wants to do something"

[D&D] Fincul asks, "How about checking at the, er, whereever you'd check on bounties, and then ending at the gates?"

[D&D] GM says, "okay"

[D&D] Fincul says, "(Feel free to make that an implied scene.)"

[D&D] Fincul asks, "As a side note, does the mage guild open its doors to visitors doing research during daylight hours, or do you need a local membership?"

GM says, ""An ogre, eh? Straying onto the path?" The sergeant looks at you. "Well, you're lucky you can swing a blade -- I hear there's worse things in there after dark. But we'll gladly pay two gold pieces an ear if you bring 'em in, and a silver an ear for swamp-orcs or swamp-goblins.""

Kaylee says, "We're in the money now."

[D&D] GM says, "you can freely come in for basic research, but for advanced research you'll need to pay 50 gold to become a scholar of the guild"

Fincul says, "Mmm. That'd have made another eight gold."

Onyx says, "Huh. We'll pick 'em up when we go after the next one."

Kaylee says, "Maybe their cousins will be three-eared."

GM says, "and then off to the gate, where Skalheth is hanging around waiting for you"

Fincul says, "Ogre ears would make for an interesting currency."

[D&D] Fincul says, "Good game. Even if I did miss most of the combat scene."

[D&D] Onyx says, "Yeah, very nice."

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Ogre ears go for 500 gold apiece in Might and Magic VIII ;-)"

[D&D] GM says, "hee hee"

[D&D] Fincul asks, "Out of curiosity, if Skalheth was there, would the third ogre have made it to us sooner?"

[D&D] Kaylee asks, "Oh, and XP?"

[D&D] Onyx asks, "don't we collect those at the end of the adventure?"

[D&D] GM says, "they'll have to wait til someone with a book shows up, anyway, since the online stuff doesn't have information about it"

[D&D] Kaylee says, "Fine by me."

[D&D] Fincul asks, "Hmm. Whizz has books, doesn't he?"

[D&D] GM says, "good point"

[D&D] Onyx says, "for one ogre and a few other things, it would be minimal. I wouldn't worry about it, unless you just happen to be insatiably curious. :-)"

[D&D] GM says, "yeah, I suppose this is true"

[D&D] Fincul says, "Although I assume that doesn't need to be logged, so I'll close it."

[Edit: The weapons turned out to be transmutation, not enchantment.]