Gameplay 1b - Rats in the Woodwork

Mar 3, 2020 2:10 pm

"May I take a look Sir, I'm a doctor." Ataan states moving and pushing his way through the crowd.

Rolls

Healing Check (w/ Healer Edge) - (1d6+2, RA)

(4) + 2 = 6

Wild - (1d6+2, RA)

(2) + 2 = 4

Mar 3, 2020 2:23 pm

The wounds are deep, made by a wide, fat weapon, perhaps an axe.

Mar 3, 2020 2:26 pm

I doubt you can help him now Ataan. He looks dead, and perhaps knifed to death and dumped in the water by the looks of things.

OOC:

I'll roll with penalties since ya never know when dice might explode.

OOC:

Edit: almost

Last edited March 3, 2020 2:27 pm

Rolls

roll heal -2 - (1d4, RA)

(41) = 5

wild -2 - (1d6, RA)

(2) = 2

Mar 3, 2020 2:55 pm

"This man wasn't slashed or stabbed to death but literally hacked at, blood loss I figure from all the wounds lead to death... Were the other four like this as well?" Ataan states as he stands with a frown wiping down his slacks after the inspection of the corpse.

Mar 4, 2020 2:54 am

The guard informs you there has been a string of murders recently, all at night, and all of the victims were found in the river with exactly the same type of wound.

He then points toward the main square, where you can see a gibbet occupied by the decomposing corpse of an old woman. "I blame that witch," he says quietly, as if fearful the corpse will hear him. "This all started the night she died. Almost one death a night for the last week." The guard will say no more on the matter.

Mar 4, 2020 6:22 am

As if brought out of a stupor, Cecily immediately starts wracking her brain. "Grisly murders, somehow related to a witch. We should find the law, they'll have a much more intelligent hypothesis. Hopefully."

Mar 4, 2020 2:30 pm

"I agree start warning people about going out at night alone if they haven't figured it out." Ataan states the obvious before looking for where the local law and magistrate might be located after asking the guard

Mar 4, 2020 3:34 pm

Just to be clear the two guardsmen are soldiers, and so perform the duties of modern day police. (The first police force was formed in 1829.)

Mar 4, 2020 4:10 pm

Hmm, I don't think my weapons will be much use against witchcraft. I wonder if one of us can persuade the guards to reveal a little more? I am not very good at that kind of thing. No one wants to look at my ugly face for too long.

Mar 4, 2020 5:08 pm

OOC:

I should've rephrased that, my intention is to find a higher-ranking soldier (basically what Ataan is after too). They'll probably be of better help unless we wanna check out the witch's place directly.

"Nonsense Gerald, everyone bleeds. Even heathens."

Mar 4, 2020 5:32 pm

OOC:

I kind of want to let them do their job once we figure out where some administrative talkie person would be.

Mar 4, 2020 6:18 pm

If you would like to question the locals, a Streetwise check would be in order.

If you want to instead go straight to the guard post to find the officer in charge, no roll necessary, it won't be a secret.

Mar 4, 2020 6:51 pm

Ataan asks locals.

Rolls

streetwise - (1d8, RA)

(86) = 14

Wild - (1d6, RA)

(5) = 5

Mar 5, 2020 1:19 pm

Ataan learn that the witch was put in the gibbet just over a week ago after being duly tried and sentenced by the local magistrate. (With a raise): You also learn the witch killed herself, biting open her own wrists and letting her blood spill to the floor. As her life force ebbed away, she cursed the town, vowing that "by my blood will I have revenge."

Mar 5, 2020 1:26 pm

OOC:

Ewwwwww!

Looks like she's getting her revenge then doesn't it? And if she's dead, how do we stop her? Perhaps if we scrubbed every speck of her blood from the floor? Burn the gibbet?

Mar 5, 2020 3:13 pm

"Lets find out what charges she was tried over and then sentenced, it honestly sounds like a desperate act to me and if she had this kind of power and actually did something she seems smart enough to not get caught." Ataan admits before going to find the local magistrate to set up an appointment to be seen.

Mar 5, 2020 5:38 pm

"It is a mystery yes. How exactly one who has died manages to literally hack people to pieces. Very curious indeed..."

Mar 6, 2020 2:38 pm

"Considering the last few months if there's malice and regret there is a way it seems." Ataan morbidly admits.

Mar 6, 2020 5:19 pm

Let's go find the magistrate...

Mar 10, 2020 12:39 am

You quickly find the guard post and the officer in charge of the area. Unfortunately, they have little to go on and seem stumped as to how to proceed, other than sending a few extra patrols at night.

Mar 10, 2020 5:22 am

Cecily will ask to see any evidence or clues they have managed to scrounge up.

Mar 10, 2020 12:39 pm

Gathering evidence is not their forte, per se. The officer will only tell you that they were all killed in the same manner and "You shouldn't worry your pretty head too much about it. We'll catch the murderer, and you will be safe. Now, run along, I have important work to do."

You're shoo-shooed out of the post.

Mar 10, 2020 1:36 pm

"One last thing the woman found guilty when you're not good at finding evidence, what did she allegedly do?" Ataan asks after the flippant remarks.

Mar 10, 2020 2:45 pm

You are forcefully shooed, potentially violently from the guard post. You can roll Notice if you think this is suspicious.

You find the magistrate, and make an appointment. After an hour long wait, you find yourself in his presence.

"The witch? Well, unusual to ask that. There were witnesses and she confessed. Mind telling me your purpose?"

You feel the hairs on the back of your neck rise. Witchcraft is a crime that often is attributed to mere impropriety and hearsay.

Mar 10, 2020 3:18 pm

OOC:

Notice Check below.

"From what we've heard maybe it's hearsay and forgive me for being rather blunt but your guards aren't known for having thorough evidence and I think technically she stated 'by my blood will I have revenge', after killing herself for the ritual she's been strung up I guess due to your local process which makes little sense to me. If you're genuinely calling her a witch out of actual belief I'm curious on how you catch and punish a dead woman's accomplice after she's killed herself and you've hung her 'dead body' which still hangs around. If she did something supernatural I hate to say it but normal procedures won't do much to catch her ghost or whatever she's summoned to act out her revenge." Ataan admits shaking his head a look of sympathy and pity in he's eyes for the magistrate.

Rolls

Notice w/Investigator - (1d6+2, RA)

(1) + 2 = 3

Wild - (1d6+2)

(2) + 2 = 4

Mar 10, 2020 3:32 pm

Atuan recalls that the guard officer started to give you the same look the magistrate is giving you, which is a growing suspicion that you are collaborators and probably witches yourselves. His fingers itch to write the arrest warrant.

Let's be clear. You're all suddenly in grave peril. Whether to cover sloppy investigating or in just a general mistrust of strangers who defend witches, it doesn't matter. A set of gibbets may be in your future. A de-tonguing would also keep your blasphemy from spreading.

Mar 10, 2020 3:59 pm

"Let me be clear Sir, trying to call witchcraft on people that point light on this doesn't solve the problem only hides it till the next murder. I've seen first hand ghost kill people. Do you want us to help you find the truth and a resolution or should I point out you specifically are likely to be on her list of people to get revenge on and if enough people die the papers might bring to light your inept results currently. It is your choice, your town, and your people dying regardless." Ataan states realizing the look. He frowns his hand on his belt.

Mar 10, 2020 4:11 pm

He looks at you incredulously. "You admit to consorting with demons and devilry?"

It appears that Ataan has chosen the hard way, to pursue this investigating by following the witches path to the gibbet. What are the rest of you doing?

Mar 10, 2020 4:34 pm

Gerald steps forward, maybe a little too closely to the magistrate, and in a loud voice responds to the magistrates threat. With all due respect sir, as my friend here has stated, we seek only the truth.

Rolls

Taunt - (1d6, RA)

(4) = 4

wild - (1d6, RA)

(2) = 2

Mar 10, 2020 4:39 pm

"This man isn't very learned... If you mean stopping ghosts from killing living people or madman who are very human from doing abomination to the dead bodies of women yes, I'm a man of Science and don't mean to boost but I'm on a righteous path. I do think it's disappointing your mind jumps to certain misunderstandings and skipping facts. Do you admit you have no idea on what to actually do besides wait for someone to be killed and catch whatever it is hopefully in the act while lying to yourself and being blind to the truth? How many bodies will that be Magistrate, how many people are you willing to sacrifice in this needlessly? It's five now, do you think you'll catch them next time? When there's 10 deaths? 20? Will you bar the people that leave in mass or are you the Magistrate, going to serve and protect your people while you still have them all? You can't tax the dead."

OOC:

Anyone noticing what happens when you let the Stubborn Overconfident guy open his mouth? XD

Mar 14, 2020 7:20 pm

"Seize them!"

The magistrate has you arrested and two guards come in wheelocks and rapiers drawn. They first escort you out of the room and then toward the back. One of them says, "Hans, why are we--" (CRACK)

The talker crumples to the ground. Hans with his friend-conking wheelock reversed, opens the back door. He hisses quietly, "My cousin was one of those killed. If you can get to the bottom of this, I owe you everything. Go! But don't be seen in the day time, we'll have to be looking for you." He closes the door behind you.

Mar 14, 2020 9:15 pm

That's a relief! For a minute there I thought we were done for. Looks like we've gained an ally. Now lets get out of here while we can!

Mar 14, 2020 11:07 pm

"Unfortunately I think things are graver than I'd like to believe, official is blind to the facts, or has a darker plan using the witch's death and her actions. We'll need to hide our identities, us heresy on the streets to resolve this and possibly incite a revolt to get him out of office and changed as well since this may happen again with a not curse driven witch young lady." Ataan states darkly as he moves to exit the place.

Mar 15, 2020 3:01 am

"Ataan, stop talking." Cecily does not waste this opportunity to flee.

I didn't even say anything and still get arrested. Ridiculous.

Mar 16, 2020 10:16 pm

What's the plan? Where are you off to?

Mar 17, 2020 3:15 am

"We should've asked where his cousin lived." Cecily says with definite regret.

OOC:

Well I'm guessing we don't just know where he lives. I say we get out of town to lose the guard and gather some info on this cousin's whereabouts after.

Mar 17, 2020 12:36 pm

"Lets ask about on the streets then can't really ask guards now, is there a paperTown Cryer in town? Yes I know stop talking, my apologies... blindness or incompetencies leads to unneeded death that can be saved, present self included unfortunately." Ataan states as he looks around.

Last edited March 17, 2020 12:55 pm

Mar 17, 2020 12:53 pm

OOC:

Historical note: There are no newspapers in Europe at this time, although their time is quickly coming. The very first will be published in 1605 in Strasburg. The second in 1609 in Wolfenbuttel, also in Germany. Within a few decades, they will be common in major cities across Europe.

Mar 17, 2020 12:56 pm

OOC:

Whoops, us fixed?

Mar 17, 2020 1:07 pm

I'm sure we can find people to ask. We just might need to get creative about who we are and why we are asking?

Last edited March 17, 2020 1:07 pm

Mar 17, 2020 1:09 pm

"Can't we just say, 'Because we don't want to die a horribly grisly death'."

Mar 17, 2020 3:38 pm

I doubt it. People are locked into their own way of thinking and add to that a strong wariness of strangers, coupled with a sprinkling of fear....

Mar 20, 2020 4:59 pm

You spend some time quietly asking around and find few answers. As evening approaches, the streets quickly empty and as the sun sets, almost no one is about save in small huddled groups quickly making their way to there destination.

Did you want to find a place for the night or are you going to patrol for mischief?

Mar 20, 2020 5:05 pm

"Well people seem to be getting off the streets so they're either not murdered or accused of being the murderer and browbeat into a confession. Lets find a place to lay low until the next incident I guess."

Mar 21, 2020 12:24 am

I think that sounds prudent Ataan. Where should we go then? Maybe a good place to pick up any news that might be floating about.

Mar 21, 2020 5:30 am

"A pub is typically an excellent locale for one to scoop out rumors, perhaps a particularly unsavory one which would still be operating with a crowd at a late hour."

Mar 21, 2020 3:46 pm

I like that idea. To be honest, I could use a drink. And not water.

Mar 24, 2020 3:43 am

You find a pub, order food and drink. The quiet works on you like a shroud. A merchant, rethinking the trip home, slaps good coin for a room, and goes to it. You are alone in the tap room save for a nervous serving girl.

Outside, a fog drifts over the town. Not unusual for a harbour city, but oppressive nonetheless.

Mar 24, 2020 2:10 pm

Ataan pulls out a chair by the group and looks at the girl, "You seem to be nervous we don't bite and this place is dead. Could you fill us in on what's what here Miss? If you please."

Mar 24, 2020 3:31 pm

Gerald was parched and gulped down his drink, listening intently with friendly eyes for the nervous bar girl.

Apr 2, 2020 12:10 am

The wench tells you, "Oh these murders, and I hate to complain, don't think bad of me, I'm grateful that I haven't been gutted in the street. But no one out and about, means no custom, and another day or two and I'll be out on the street. Beggin or worse, if I want to survive. And with no money for rent, I'll be out there. With evil afoot."

Apr 2, 2020 4:17 am

"How terrible. Anywhere we should avoid in particular? I'd hate to be walking particularly endangering streets even with-" Cecily gestures to her companions. "-Such strong company."

Apr 2, 2020 1:10 pm

"No. The town isn't that big, nowhere is safe."

Apr 2, 2020 1:19 pm

"Maybe I'm wrong but I've heard all the victims were men of ill repute..."

Apr 2, 2020 1:41 pm

"If that ill is sliced mighty thin, I suppose that is true, but hows one supposed to know? For certain?"

Apr 2, 2020 2:59 pm

"Well men out late at night in various places... Aren't home sleeping or with loved ones I would wager... did you know any of the deceased?"

Apr 2, 2020 3:35 pm

She knows one of the victims superficially. She recalls his face, but not much about him.

Apr 11, 2020 4:12 pm

OOC:

Basically, you've exhausted investigating options, as no one seems to know what is going on. The two choices you have are to rest for the night, or patrol the streets at night in hopes of stumbling upon the murderer

Apr 11, 2020 4:44 pm

OOC:

Gerald is up for a night patrol! Don't see any other option if we want more info.

Apr 11, 2020 8:03 pm

OOC:

Night prowler time.

Apr 14, 2020 3:16 am

You take to the streets, wandering, trying to avoid the soldiers, and listening for signs of violence.

Deck Draws

Random draws

Apr 14, 2020 3:21 am

The streets are no mean place, and after a few hours, you run into a pair of common thugs. "Your purses or you get the blade," one says through broken teeth. The gleam of worn iron in his hand makes his threat more believable.

Apr 14, 2020 1:22 pm

"Ah locals with some possible knowledge on things going about at night! I know you might be insulted but if you're a respectable criminal you can at least sharpen the blades can't you. You wouldn't by chance have been out when some of the massacres happen would you? The attacks were by someone of large stature and/or great strength, used a hatchet or ax. Bit macbre but if it was livestock they'd have been a very rapidly successful butcher I imagine... Oh this is related to the hanging of the woman that killed herself, city magistrate stated she was a 'witch' I believe." Ataan states with a smile pulling out his dagger and main gauche, "Now lets have a decent talk maybe I can look at those teeth. Looks a bit painful."

Apr 14, 2020 1:34 pm

Gerald stands at the ready with a confident smirk, his dagger on display.

Apr 14, 2020 1:41 pm

Ataan should make a Streetwise roll to attempt to alter their muggerous intentions.

Apr 14, 2020 1:52 pm

OOC:

Rolls if Investigator edge doesn't apply disregard the +2, I mean free dental work possibly...

Last edited April 14, 2020 1:52 pm

Rolls

streetwise w/Investigator - (1d8+2, RA)

(2) + 2 = 4

wild - (1d6+2, RA)

(4) + 2 = 6

Apr 14, 2020 1:57 pm

The two thugs are rethinking their night but seem somewhat committed to violence. "Give us a (£1) and we's's tell ya."

Apr 14, 2020 2:47 pm

"10 shilling 15 if you show us the best places to hide from the patrols or to murder people... or we can hold you up... Don't worry any broken bones or lacerations can be mended but we'll charge. Fortunately with the killing serialized dumping bodies in the water seems like a convenient alternative if we get too violent, then my hands are tied." Ataan states back with a smile.

Apr 14, 2020 2:54 pm

They agree to your proposal. They shrewdly demand half up front. They're probably just waiting until your guard is down for a good shivving, but for now you have tour guides to the slummier side of the city.

Apr 14, 2020 3:00 pm

"So there's the known killings, are there any in the slums and outer areas where they just haven't been reported? My apologies I've no idea what your names are, should I call you two Stabby and Noddy?"

Apr 14, 2020 3:11 pm

"Yeah, Stabby and Noddy is good, huh." They seem pleased by the nom de guerres you have suggested, with all of the unintentional menace of thugs working on a good piece of tbuggery that is going their way.

Stabby offers "Mostly, yes, all of them been in dark dirty places. Not us, whoever is what is doing it wouldn't mess with us, we's's bad news."

"Yeah," evil chuckle from Noddy, "Bad news."

Apr 14, 2020 3:38 pm

"The attacker seemed to have the strength to cleave through bodies with a rather blunt ax mind you so if you do see someone like that I highly recommend you don't attempt a robbery unless you'd like your name added to the list of the deceased and mauled. You don't seem that bad to me possibly if your lives had different opportunities you might have ended up in transport or security... Besides there are things worse then being stabbed to death Gentlemen... Much worse."

Apr 14, 2020 4:59 pm

Gerald got an idea. Would you thugs fellows like to help us catch the killer?

Apr 14, 2020 5:37 pm

"One can be bad but still get the respect of the local people... if you care about a reputation my associate makes a good point."

Apr 14, 2020 11:33 pm

They seem to be growing confused, but a few words must have penetrated. "Who gets reward?"

Apr 15, 2020 12:57 pm

"Depends on what we all do and if we survive and keep our wits about us honestly. We've a watering hole to return to, if you find out more about the murders and you'd like an easier life then just the pence you get from mugging people look us up, especially if you find anything about the murderer in the area." Ataan states a bit vague.

Apr 16, 2020 6:08 pm

OOC:

I think you were asking for a guided tour of the local sticky spots, but now are you suggesting they just bring you information (at the tavern) if they get it?

Apr 16, 2020 7:37 pm

OOC:

Tours over soon but they'll need to eat/drink again sometime no? Or maybe we're looking for henchmen in the long run...

Apr 17, 2020 5:25 am

Ataan is driving a hard bargain considering these brigands have already made an attempt on our finances... Cecily chuckles at some unknown sight.

Apr 17, 2020 12:18 pm

Yeah let's go. Gerald makes moves to leaving, hoping the bandits will come to a decision.

Apr 17, 2020 12:23 pm

"No? Well no good night kiss or hand shake for you. As promised. Hope you two make some good life choices. Ataan states telling them where he'll be staying if they don't give an immediate response.

"This situation went to shite quite quickly..." Ataan admits once back at the inn.

OOC:

*checks pulse of other PCs* I guess fast travel if we've selected all chat options.

Apr 21, 2020 1:16 pm

The two thugs give you the tour which is boring and takes less than an hour. You've seen all the shady spots of the port town, and encountered a few more thugs and cutpurses but the source of your sojourn eludes you. You elude the watch knowing that you're all wanted for witchcraft, where suspicion alone ensures guilt.

By morning, you're exhausted from being awake all night and return to the tavern for breakfast and possible sleep.

That's when you hear the news spreading like wildfire: During the night, someone broke into a peasant’s house and attacked the family. Another shocking and gruesome murder has occurred!

Apr 21, 2020 11:33 pm

Almost unbelieving they've somehow missed the only exciting thing to happen in this horrible excuse for a town Cecily forces herself to keep an ear open as the rumors circulate, trying to determine who, what, and why got robbed. Ideally all three without leaving her seat.

OOC:

Should I roll for this?

Apr 21, 2020 11:40 pm

During the night, someone broke into a peasant’s house and attacked the family.

OOC:

I'll give you that for free! Haha

Apr 21, 2020 11:56 pm

We never seem to be in the right place at the right time lately, Gerald surmises. Is the family still alive? Was anything stolen I wonder?

OOC:

There's nothing I can roll so this is purely rhetorical.

Apr 21, 2020 11:57 pm

Any of you can roll Streetwise to suss out the location and identity of the victims, then check it out.

Apr 22, 2020 12:06 pm

OOC:

I wonder if knowing Stabby and Noddy would give a bonus talking to people late on...

Rolls

Streetwise with Investigator - (1d8+2, RA)

(4) + 2 = 6

Wild - (1d6+2, RA)

(2) + 2 = 4

Apr 22, 2020 12:52 pm

Ataan is able to figure out, with careful local details asked as questions, that the Steiner family was killed and you get their address (by reference to landmarks).

Apr 22, 2020 6:16 pm

Let's make haste to the Steiner family residence, God rest their poor souls. Hopefully there will be some clues there.

Apr 23, 2020 4:07 am

Cecily can't fathom why, but she has the sudden urge to punch whoever said the same damn thing about the break in...odd.

"Anything to get out of here. Afterwards we shall slumber."

Apr 23, 2020 4:21 am

You find the peasant families home easy enough, and entering, you find that the family had been eviscerated, basically torn apart.

Make Guts checks to avoid nausea.
Make Notice checks to search for clues.

Apr 23, 2020 11:06 am

OOC:

Rolls no penalities?

Rolls

Guts - (1d4, RA)

(3) = 3

Wild Guts - (1d6, RA)

(5) = 5

Notice w/Investigator - (1d6+2, RA)

(61) + 2 = 9

Wild Notice w/Investigator - (1d6+2, RA)

(3) + 2 = 5

Apr 23, 2020 12:39 pm

OOC:

No penalties. I'll review clues later today

Ataan sees the mangled corpses of the family, but managed to keep a tight rein on his constitution.

Apr 23, 2020 3:01 pm

rollin'...

Rolls

Notice + alertness edge - (1d6+2, RA)

(63) + 2 = 11

Wild - (1d6+2, RA)

(1) + 2 = 3

Guts/Sprit - (1d8, RA)

(7) = 7

wild - (1d8, RA)

(1) = 1

Apr 23, 2020 5:16 pm

Cecily isn't sure what she expected, given they knew there was going to be death. "We must hurry before they start...blossoming."

Rolls

Guts - (1d4, 1d6, RA)

1d4 : (42) = 6

1d6 : (1) = 1

Notice - (1d4, 1d6)

1d4 : (3) = 3

1d6 : (3) = 3

Apr 23, 2020 5:32 pm

You find the wooden floor of the house is covered in scratch marks, several inches long, as is the front door. The scratch marks look like those of an animal. During the search, you find a child’s room, but there is no sign of a child. Searching the house reveals no corpse (or dismembered parts). From the stories you know that the family had a young daughter.

A faint blood trail leads from the child’s room and down the stairs.

Qralloq sent a note to Qralloq

Apr 23, 2020 6:51 pm

Ataan growls lowly unsatisfied by what he sees going down the stairs, "I'll go first..." he states pulling both his weapons.

Apr 23, 2020 7:23 pm

The blood trail is hard to follow once it gets to the front door and it into the street. This will require a Smarts(Tracking) roll. If you don't have that skill, you can roll untrained (1d4-2,1d6-2).

Apr 23, 2020 7:37 pm

Gerald shakes his head. Sadness and foreboding competing for attention.A child taken. This is very tragic and for what I dread to think.

Last edited April 23, 2020 7:37 pm

Rolls

Smarts - (1d6, RA)

(5) = 5

wild - (1d6, RA)

(3) = 3

Apr 24, 2020 1:26 am

Gerald follow the tracks through the street. They lead straight to a sewer grate, which although in place has been forced upward at some point and no longer sits securely in the road.

Apr 24, 2020 1:19 pm

"Well we've already had breakfast so seeing it again might be soon in our future, does anyone have a lantern..."

Apr 24, 2020 5:06 pm

"I have candles." Cecily pulls out two to confirm she does in fact possess them.

Apr 24, 2020 7:11 pm

All I have is flint and steel and no kindling... Gerald replies, trying to make light of the situation.

Apr 24, 2020 7:13 pm

You could grab a lamp from the murder house. It's probably not cursed or anything.

Apr 24, 2020 10:48 pm

Not fearing a curse (especially when one could study and learn from it) Cecily will do just that. No one was using it anyways.

Apr 24, 2020 11:25 pm

You lift the grate and are struck immediately by the smell. The old sewers reek of decay, with a hint of something altogether more sinister masked by the foul odor. A ladder leads down into the stone tunnels.

Qralloq sent a note to Qralloq

Apr 27, 2020 12:07 pm

Ataan heads down after apply a handkerchief face mask.

Apr 27, 2020 12:21 pm

Your characters would likely know that you'll need to dampen the rag for it to be effective at reducing smells.

Apr 27, 2020 5:02 pm

"I'd say we're on the right track, call it intuition. Now just to be clear we're doing this right now?"

Apr 27, 2020 5:41 pm

Gerald spits into his kerchief and covers his mouth and nose, following Ataan and Cecily.

Apr 27, 2020 6:18 pm

Masked up, you enter the sewers.

The sewers aren’t very big. The walls are ancient, built long before the port, and appear to have been used for some other purpose before the river broke through and flooded them. The walls show faint traces of mosaics, and the floor is paved. The entire area is filled with several inches of water and is extremely slippery.

One way stops immediately. You follow the other way down 30 yards or so, where it turns to the right. Shortly thereafter, you reach a crossroads. You peer and listen in either direction, though you can't see terribly far even with lantern light.

Notice checks please.

Apr 27, 2020 8:01 pm

Hmmm. Looks like we got a decision to make.

Gerald peers down the passages as far as he can see which isn't much. He listens for some kind of clue or hint as to which way to go.

Rolls

Notice - (1d6+2, RA)

(5) + 2 = 7

Wild - (1d6+2, RA)

(1) + 2 = 3

Apr 28, 2020 3:58 am

"Shh." Cecily closes her eyes and listens for what may be in store for them.

Rolls

Notice + Wild die - (1d4, 1d6, RA)

1d4 : (3) = 3

1d6 : (1) = 1

Apr 28, 2020 12:13 pm

Ataan looks of signs of blood or recent traffic down the various directions.

Rolls

Notice w/ investigator - (1d6+2, RA)

(1) + 2 = 3

wild - (1d6+2, RA)

(5) + 2 = 7

Apr 28, 2020 12:43 pm

Those who succeed hear frantic squeaking from up ahead, moving in their direction. Characters who were successful are on Hold.

Seconds later, a swarm of rats bursts around the nearest corner and surges toward the heroes in a writhing, chattering wave of teeth and fur.

Those of you on hold (not Cecily) can act before the rat wave hits you.

Qralloq sent a note to Qralloq

Apr 28, 2020 12:53 pm

"Miss Cecily don't be alarmed but it seems rats have noticed us first." Ataan states moving up to attack the rats when they get closer to him.

Rolls

Stabbing Rats - (1d4, RA)

(3) = 3

wild - (1d6, RA)

(61) = 7

Apr 28, 2020 1:07 pm

Successful attack, roll damage

Apr 28, 2020 1:35 pm

OOC:

Rolls

Damage - (1d6, 1d4, RA)

1d6 : (5) = 5

1d4 : (3) = 3

Apr 28, 2020 1:50 pm

Ataan successfully kills one out of the hundreds of rats.

Gerald is up (with a Held action) then I'll flip action cards

May 1, 2020 12:07 pm

Gerald slashes at the rats, not his favorite animals he grimaces in disgust.

Rolls

slash slash - (1d6, RA)

(3) = 3

wildly slashing - (1d6, RA)

(1) = 1

Dmg - (1d8+1, 1d4, RA)

1d8+1 : (4) + 1 = 5

1d4 : (2) = 2

May 1, 2020 12:20 pm

The rats swarm over you, myriad teeth and claws tearing at your clothes, your skin.

But they do not stop to engage with you, but are steaming past, lashing out at you in fear and aggression, as they flee something from the tunnel they came from.

OOC:

Since you all remained in their path, you all take the damage rolled. If it beats your Toughness, you are Shaken, which seems unlikely since I rolled a 2.

Rolls

Damage - (2d4)

(11) = 2

May 1, 2020 12:49 pm

"Well alright fleeing rats... who wants to check out what spooked that many rats?" Ataan states dusting himself off.

May 2, 2020 3:17 am

Cecily leans against the wall, watching the rats with both bemusement and curiosity. "Preferably someone who can deal with whatever is capable of scaring a whole swarm."

May 2, 2020 1:12 pm

https://www.dropbox.com/s/fexr58dnsb3urpy/sk-rats-sewers.png?dl=1

From the top left you entered, across the top of the map, then down to the first intersection. The rats can from the bottom up to and over you, then continued on back the way you came. You are fairly certain they came from around the corner.

You follow that trail, going down then turning left (I.e., toward the round room in the map). Another intersection, but pretend you can't see that the tunnel left leads to the round room (your lantern doesn't illuminate that far). Did you want to look into that small square room just below or move into the darkness to the left side of the map.

May 4, 2020 7:41 pm

OOC:

My vote is the small square room since it's...small. Like a pit stop.

May 4, 2020 10:24 pm

OOC:

Me too, small square room.

May 4, 2020 10:28 pm

The small alcove: Dozens of cat and dog corpses lie strewn about, and there are several human skeletons here as well. If you want to get up close and examine the corpses or search through them, you'll need to make Guts checks.

May 5, 2020 1:27 am

At this point Gerald's queasiness has subsided and he is almost immune to new atrocities and hideous smells. Curious, he stoops and lowers his gaze, reaching out his hands, looking for clues.

Rolls

Spirit (guts) - (1d8, RA)

(83) = 11

wild - (1d6, RA)

(2) = 2

May 5, 2020 2:00 am

Gerald indeed feels hardened against these atrocities. While you don't see anything of note among the discarded bones, you might be able to tell something from the bones themselves. With a successful Healing roll, that is.

May 5, 2020 4:26 am

Cecily decides not to follow Gerald into the literal corpse room, impressed by his steel will and (apparently) lack of a working nose. "Do be careful in there."

Last edited May 5, 2020 4:26 am

May 5, 2020 12:20 pm

OOC:

Rolls. Update: XD....

Last edited May 5, 2020 12:20 pm

Rolls

Guts - (1d4, RA)

(1) = 1

Wild - (1d6, RA)

(1) = 1

May 5, 2020 1:11 pm

Ataan finds a quiet spot to fetch, bringing up whatever he ate and drank that morning. This leaves him defenseless for a short while (critical failure), and when he recovers, he is at -1 to all tests (failure).

May 11, 2020 12:54 pm

An examination of the skeletons coupled with a successful Healing roll reveals the bones have been gnawed upon. There are incisor marks like those of a rat, only much, much bigger.

There is nothing else of interest here.

Rolls

Healing unskilled - (1d4-2, 1d6-2, RA)

1d4-2 : (2) - 2 = 0

1d6-2 : (63) - 2 = 7

May 11, 2020 12:59 pm

You continue down the remaining corridor, and arrive at the large circular room. There you find an enormous rat, The size of a small horse! On sensing the human invaders, it rushes to attack, its enormous incisors chomping at the thought of devouring their flesh. Behind it, you see the still form of a young girl. She doesn't look harmed, and may still be alive.

Everyone is up before the rat. (So rolling for Danger Sense is unnecessary in this instance).

Deck Draws

Ataan, Cecily, Gerard, Praise, Monster

May 11, 2020 1:39 pm

"Let her go beast!!!!" Ataan roars wilding attacking the rat with his weapons.

Rolls

Melee Wild attack with burpee vomitee juice hiccups - (1d4+1, RA)

(1) + 1 = 2

Wild die - (1d6+1, RA)

(5) + 1 = 6

May 11, 2020 2:04 pm

Ataan is somewhat off kilter from the retching (-1 to actions) so fails to penetrate the rats defenses (Parry 6).

May 11, 2020 3:21 pm

OOC:

yep Wild attack +2 and failed guts -1 so net +1

May 11, 2020 3:22 pm

OOC:

Then your 6 hits, roll damage.

I edited the post above describing the rat as being the size of a small horse.

Qralloq sent a note to Qralloq

May 11, 2020 3:30 pm

OOC:

Roll damage, also meh Parry is 4 till my next turn from wild attacking, 6 damage I guess or a mild massage to Rat horse.

Last edited May 11, 2020 3:31 pm

Rolls

Main Gauche - (1d6+2, 1d4, RA)

1d6+2 : (1) + 2 = 3

1d4 : (3) = 3

May 11, 2020 3:54 pm

Ataan's weapons strike but shave rather than cut the beast.
(Toughness 8)

May 11, 2020 4:42 pm

As Gerald enters the room he draws his pistol and fires at the ridiculously large rat.

Edit: adding another d6 for raise

Last edited May 11, 2020 5:05 pm

Rolls

Shoot the thing (-2 multi-action penalty) - (1d10-2, RA)

(109) - 2 = 17

dmg - (2d6+1, RA)

(262) + 1 = 11

wilds - (1d6-2, RA)

(3) - 2 = 1

raised damage - (1d6, RA)

(5) = 5

May 15, 2020 11:09 pm

Gerald's gun explodes the tunnels with sound, and the shot hits the giant rat with suitable force, tearing into its body.

16 damage vs 8 Toughness is success with two raises. Shaken plus two wounds.

Cecily is up!

May 17, 2020 3:59 am

Cecily feels a familiar sensation in the air. These tunnels may be stone, but the water runs much deeper. She calls out to what lies beneath, and a sudden burst of roots rise from the ground to entangle the beast.

OOC:

Haha wowie.

Last edited May 17, 2020 4:02 am

Rolls

Entangle - (1d10-3, 1d6, RA)

1d10-3 : (5) - 3 = 2

1d6 : (6663) = 21

May 17, 2020 4:15 am

OOC:

Wow

A raise restrains the target fully. He cannot move or use any skills linked to Agility or Strength.

Seems like you have it at your mercy.

You're all up.

Rolls

Opposed agility - (1d8, 1d6, RA)

1d8 : (83) = 11

1d6 : (62) = 8

May 20, 2020 2:34 am

This should be easy now. I like what you did with the roots Cecily!

Gerald shot at the stuck spider but his pistol jammed. Damn the luck, he said.

Last edited May 20, 2020 2:42 am

Rolls

Shoot! - (1d10, RA)

(3) = 3

Wild - (2d6+1, RA)

(54) + 1 = 10

wild for real this time - (1d6, RA)

(1) = 1

May 20, 2020 2:43 am

Gerald's shot misses the rat by a few inches, spent black powder filling the chamber with acrid smoke.

May 20, 2020 7:08 am

"Gerald how did that happen?!" Cecily has to turn her head, not wanting to inhale the fumes. "Just kill it already." Pulling out her knife she makes a tiny precise cut at the tip of her pointing finger, which she runs along Ataan's steel.

OOC:

+4 damage with a raise.

Last edited May 20, 2020 7:08 am

Rolls

Smite - (1d10-2, RA)

(105) - 2 = 13

Wild Die - (1d6)

(2) = 2

May 20, 2020 1:57 pm

I broke the cardinal rule of gun ownership, Cecily. I did not clean my pistol.

Seeing Cecily smite the rat he adds, Looks like you are taking care of it now anyway.

Last edited May 25, 2020 3:56 pm

May 20, 2020 2:25 pm

Ataan is up! Your blade is enchanted, it is at your mercy, you could be the unsung hero!

May 20, 2020 2:45 pm

"Well it's due to lack of effort..." Ataan states stabbing out at the creature again.

OOC:

Unsure if there's a +1 from Cecily for gang up bonus so I didn't add it in.

Last edited May 20, 2020 2:46 pm

Rolls

Stabbing attempt w/ Wild Attack - (1d4+2, RA)

(3) + 2 = 5

Wild - (1d6+2, RA)

(3) + 2 = 5

May 20, 2020 2:55 pm

OOC:

Gang up bonus makes sense.

Ataan is somewhat off kilter from the retching (-1 to actions) so fails to penetrate the rats defenses (Parry 6).

Ataan misses his attack.

The rat struggles to break free, but fails to do so.

Each of you are up.

Rolls

Strength check to break free - (1d8-2, 1d6-2, RA)

1d8-2 : (5) - 2 = 3

1d6-2 : (2) - 2 = 0

May 21, 2020 2:12 pm

OOC:

I edited the last post, so you won't have gotten a notification.

Each of you are up again.

May 21, 2020 2:36 pm

"For the record I'm a doctor not a rat catcher or killer!" Ataan tries to dismiss his poor attempts of slaughter.

Rolls

Keep that wild stabbing attack going with gangup plus fear check failure (+3-1) - (1d4+2, RA)

(2) + 2 = 4

wild attack - (1d6+2, RA)

(3) + 2 = 5

May 21, 2020 3:31 pm

Ataan pokes and prods the monstrous creature but fails to exterminate it.

May 25, 2020 3:21 pm

Ok Lady Luck...I need you now. Gerald fires again. Surly missing a restrained target is not possible again!

OOC:

edit: adding damage

Last edited May 25, 2020 3:22 pm

Rolls

Shoot - (1d10, RA)

(4) = 4

wild - (1d6, RA)

(4) = 4

1d6 [ RA ]

(3) = 3

2d6+1 [ RA ]

(64) + (5) + 1 = 16

May 25, 2020 3:46 pm

Would Gerald like to narrate the killing shot?

May 25, 2020 3:56 pm

Gerald shouts loudly at the rat. Finally! As it should be! The rat squeals a death squawk that turns into a wail, ichor now flowing freely from its body. For a brief moment Gerald actually feels sorry for the rat but that passes quickly. He gives it a kick to make sure it is in fact dead. No movement confirms the demise of the rat.

May 25, 2020 4:24 pm

Combat is over

If Cecily would like to make a magic-y investigation type roll, I may be able to explain the rats origins.

May 26, 2020 4:50 am

"Wonderful, I knew you could do it." Cecily would pat him on the back in a sassy manner, but her hand has blood on it. Plus she wants to examine what happened to this rat to make it so large. Related to the mystery killer? Likely.

Rolls

Occult - (1d8, 1d6, RA)

1d8 : (4) = 4

1d6 : (5) = 5

May 26, 2020 12:12 pm

Ataan moves in to verify it's death and examine it's claws to see if it would be possible to mistake for a dull hatchet or ax.

May 26, 2020 12:13 pm

The little girl that was lying in the rubbish startles at the gunfire, and whimpers.

[ +- ] Witch, Curse, Rat

May 26, 2020 1:25 pm

"Well we got a young girl to get out of here... I saw we get word of this by letter to the incompetent guy in charge after we spread the rumor of what has happened through stabby and co..." Ataan states before checking the girl to see if she's okay medically and mentally, "Well that was pretty scary any ideas who we can take you to?"

May 26, 2020 1:50 pm

The girl is catatonic. You do recall that there was no sign of the child in the murder house that lead you here.

May 26, 2020 10:39 pm

Cecily watches Ataan try to wrestle information from the girl. "She is unconscious Ataan. We need to find a hospice and find out if there is a reason for her condition; the very fact she isn't dead is a miracle. We should probably burn the rat as well."

May 27, 2020 1:17 pm

"Well she's likely fainted after seeing what happened to her family plus the murder was a large animal that predated that should be smaller… I think we should cut off it's head and take it to the town official."

May 29, 2020 2:02 pm