1880, March -- East Texas (IC)
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Somehow, each of you ended up in the middle o' the night, in the middle of a drivin' rain storm, off the beaten path in an East Texas pine forest. A full moon gives brief, faint light periodically as the strong wind moves the clouds cross the sky.
Yer miles south of the last rail line; a single muddy track winds its way through the forest, slightly uphill. At last; lights!
You'd then find yer self in a small, old lumber town, in front of a pinewood saloon, yellow lights glowing from the windows. All the other small buildings round you are dark and closed up.
Time ta head in an' get out of the storm!
As he enters the saloon, his forefinger slides the bridge of his wire-rimmed glasses back up to the top of his angular nose but it's hard to see what with the raindrops dotting his spectacles. Hooking his thumbs into his suspenders that serve to hold up his worn and therefore shiny trousers whose waistband gathers below an ample belly, he strides confidently toward the barkeep. His waistcoat contains pockets of small vials containing his conction ready to whip out at a moment's notice and a halo of stale cigar smoke seems to follow in his wake as he takes in his surroundings looking for a mark and a drink.
"Be gentle with Mac. Understand?" The kid would nod and gesture to go and pay inside, watching the intimidating figure mosey his way inside of the tavern proper.
Coming in through the door was a tall, broad-shouldered man standing somewhere around six feet and three inches tall. His duster and chaps were soaked by the weather but one could see the dark brown common pants of a worker, a stained cream shirt with suspenders keeping his pants secured to his being. A derby cap hid most of his face underneath thanks to the light but one could make out burn scars along his neck that disappeared underneath his collar. Each step of his was heavy as he walked in with a rusted, yet impressive, rifle on his back, a heavy pistol on his hip, and a bowie knife on the other side.
Taking a seat at the bar, he would take off his hat to reveal the extensive damage that had been done to his face. Hairless and with hard eyes, he'd give a nod to the barman.
"Is your kitchen open? I want something to warm the bones. A glass of water otherwise." His voice was low and rumbled like a rockslide starting would sound like. He begins to take off his coat, hanging it on his seat to reveal a tattoo along his right arm of a snake that coiled around his arm to his hand, its mouth open on his trigger finger.
The saloon is backed with locals--it'd feel like more than should be normal for this time of night and for this bad'a storm. Folk are near elbow to elbow crowded at tables. Candles round the room give the place a dim glow.
All faces turn toward you as you enter. Rain beats against walls and rattles the windows.
Near everyone in the place is still watchin' Horace.
A boom of thunder.
The barstool would creak under you as you take a seat.
He shakes his head. "No food cooked tonight." He grabs a pitcher from the shelf behind him and pours water into a rocks glass. "An' there's yer water."
"Can't say that I am. One more glass, please. Thank you." Jeremiah says, looking around the room at all the eyes on them. "Don't get visitors much, I'm guessing?"
"Bah, barkeep, it's nothing but a spell of rain, and water never killed anyone far as I can tell," Horace says in that nasal voice of his, looking up when the thunder clap goes off. "Time is an illusion. The hour doesn't concern me." Horace scans the room to see if he can spot those curious eyes that might suggest an easy sale.
Looking back at the barkeep he adds,"I'll take a bourbon if you please." Horace removes his hat and pats the rainwater off it, replacing it on his bald pate with care.
"Together? Not as far as I know."
Disappointed that there would be no food tonight he sucks in his lower lip and studies the broad-shouldered man at the bar wondering at his ruined face and the interesting snake tattoo and why he only asked for water.
You hear a resounding *pop*; *glug, glug, glug* as the barkeep pours your bourbon.
There are a likely group of marks near the roaring fireplace--desperate looking lumberjacks, all stained flannel, unkempt beards and dirt smeared faces.
You'd also notice an odd symbol painted on the wall to the side of the brick chimney--intricate and gleaming wet.
"I was caught in a burning building. A church, if you'd believe it. Preacher saved me in more ways than one." The large man explained, lifting the refilled glass and savoring the cool water on a thirsty throat. Nothing worst than being caught in the rain and being thirsty.
"I have a horse in the stable. How much for the housing?" He'd ask the bartender, noticing the hard stare he gave the old man to his right.
To Jeremiah, "I'll take a dime for it's feedin' is all." He gives a stern look to Jeremiah, despite his size. "Is that all yer drinkin' tonight friend," motions to the water in Jeremiah's glass, "Adam's Ale?"
The room lights bright for a moment, lighting flashing through the window.
He notices the fire and then the group near it that looks ripe for plucking. Lumberjacks might be looking for some entertainment. The kind with an uncertain ending. He chuckles inwardly at that and asks himself if he is really that cruel a man and decides that he might just be. He has no idea what happens when these apparitions come from one of his exploding vials and that would be the fun of it.
As he continues to muse and look around the room he sees the red design on a wall by the chimney. As he slaps a coin on the counter he looks back at the symbol. "Hey what do you reckon that thing is Barkeep, and why is it wet? Did someone just put it there?
As he places his small hand on the doorknob of the saloon entrance, he whispers what's become a personal mantra in the past few months, do the job, get paid, keep moving west, before turning the knob and heading inside.
Immediately the warmth hits him and he inadvertently smiles. He holds the smile and nods hello at those closest to him. A few of those folk raise quizzical eyebrows, probably wondering what an average looking but scraggly 14yo kid is doing here on a night like this. Perhaps some of them look closer though, beyond the kind face and sympathetic eyes, and notice the slightest hint of hauntedness around the boy.
Nathaniel can see the place is pretty packed, as he looks around for a free seat. He spots one up front, near two men that seem rather out of place in a small town like this. heh, I'm sure I'll fit right in than as he makes his way through the crowd, apologizing as he accidentally steps on a few toes along the way.
He pulls up a chair next to a bull of a man. Though fascinated by them, he tries not to glance at the man's scars and tattoos, as he calls out to the bartender, "Excuse me sir, can I get a water please?"
While waiting for his drink, he takes a quick look at the other odd looking patron, noting the resemblance to Nathaniel's old school headmaster, Mr. O'Bannion, what with the wire rimmed glasses and pot belly. He catches the last bits of conversation, and looks up at the symbol that's being questioned, raising his own quizzical eyebrow now, what the heck *is* that?
He ambles towards the bar hoping for drink and a warm meal. He sits down carefully because his left hip still bothers him when it rains. His fingers tap the bar idly as he takes in his surroundings.
"The hell is that..." Jeremiah mutters, squinting as he sits up from his seat. He approaches where that wet symbol laid, looking it over with a concerned look. He wasn't the most knowledgeable of men but its strange iconography didn't seem godly at all.
He places the glass in front of the boy, firmly. He responds to Horace. "That..." faces from all the nearby tables have all turned to the newcomers at the bar, listening to the bartenders response..."well. That's a town matter." More thunder rumbling off in the distance, but the it sounds like the rain is beginning to lessen. He seems hesitant to freely talk about the symbol.
The man begins to wipe the wooden bar top with a dirty rag.
He moves down the bar slightly to Kaladin. "What can I do ya for, stranger?"
"Speaking of kids, aren't you a little young to be running around and especially in the likes of this weather?" he says to the boy with the haunted look. "And what is with all you fellas ordering water?" That makes Horace giggle. Such a terrible habit but he's too old to bother with it now.
Horace examines the man that sits down stiffly and orders nothing. He looks like a man that has lived a hard life.
Rolls
Occult - (1d4-2, 1d4-2, RA)
1d4-2 : (1) - 2 = -1
1d4-2 : (41) - 2 = 3
"The good book speaks against getting drunk. I don't like to tempt it." He answers calmly, eyeing the bartender before nodding. "Has the town been having problems? Lots of folks saddled up in 'ere despite the kitchen being closed..." Jeremiah would look at the man as gently as he could, offering a smile as he did so. It just didn't look right on his face.
Rolls
Smarts - (1d4-2, 1d4-2, RA)
1d4-2 : (2) - 2 = 0
1d4-2 : (2) - 2 = 0
Persuasion - (1d4-1, 1d6-1, RA)
1d4-1 : (1) - 1 = 0
1d6-1 : (1) - 1 = 0
Noticing the barkeep's hesitancy, with an entreating look Nathaniel asks "Excuse me, sir. My teacher, Ms. Rudabaker, gave us a task to find out something neat about history, with a prize for the most interesting fact. I would really appreciate it if you can tell me more about that up there..." pointing and looking back at the symbol, trying to recall if maybe it's something he's seen in his travels.
The fact that he hadn't been to school for several months now was something he kept to himself. He didn't mind fibbing if it was for a good reason.
Rolls
(Occult) Unskilled - (1d4-2, 1d6-2, RA)
1d4-2 : (3) - 2 = 1
1d6-2 : (2) - 2 = 0
Persuasion - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (5) = 5
1d6 : (4) = 4
Persuasion (Charismatic Edge) - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (2) = 2
1d6 : (1) = 1
Lumber Town Saloon Interior | Nathaniel & Jeremiah
...but he shuts his mouth when Nathaniel interjects with "Excuse me, sir...."
He huffs, and relents. His voice drops to a low murmur in the already quiet tavern room. "Look, ya'll like as won't believe nothin' I'm saying," he looks at the Bible Jeremiah Cross holds, "but sounds like some of ya'll are good Christian folk. So you know full well, the devil's always workin' his evil in the world."
He leans in closer and looks round to make sure non-of the town folk hear.
He crosses himself. "On nights like ta night, when th' moon is full, an' the two nights round it...something prowls the pines. Somethin' with a taste fer...man. It howls like the devil himself, and will rip ta shreds any decent God walkin' man or woman it sees... folk are afeared. It's why they gather in my place, when the moon is full, so late in to the night--for safety..."
Rolls
Suspicious Bartender with an Average Spirit--life is hard in the west. - (1d6, RA)
(2) = 2
turning to the child- you look a bit young to be out at a saloon at this hour, everything alright?
Barkeep: what's got the saloon seemingly busy on a night like this and what can you tell me about that symbol on the wall?
Rolls
Occult - (1d4-2, 1d6-2, RA)
1d4-2 : (2) - 2 = 0
1d6-2 : (1) - 2 = -1
Persuasion - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (3) = 3
1d6 : (2) = 2
"Drink is 10 cents friend, but we ain't got no food this eveni--"
His sentence is cut off as a deep, rumbling howl pierces the night. It sounds near. Everyone in the saloon is quiet, straining to listen.
Will any man or woman join me? A hunter alone...well...he's alone and vulnerable. A posse though, that's a hell of a thing." The large man asks as he pulls his jacket and derby cap back upon his head once more.
after putting his duster and hat back on Kaladin turns to the man: Count me in
"I'll go with you. You might think I do not look like a worthy adversary but I've slain the likes you've never seen before."
Looking at the scarred man, "I'd like to join too sir. If this thing, whatever it may be, is posing a threat to the folk here, it needs to be stopped."
He glances at the Bible, for a moment wondering about the man's conviction toward being placed here to slay monsters, then looks at the barkeep, "Mr. Earnest, the old witchy woman, where does she live? If she has some insight into this thing, perhaps a visit would be best."
He answers Nathaniel Bigby. "Ole Winnie? She, uh, she lives northeast of town. Up near Bear Rock. But...ya can't go out there!"
Another howl echoes out in the night. A scream, high and sharp, follows.
A woman, near the center of the room stands. She has a faded tin star pinned to her duster.
She looks at ya'll standing at the bar. "We can't go out there folks. Not tonight..."
She appears to be thinking hard.
The scream outside gets louder--it's definitely a woman screaming for help. Now the sound of a window shattering.
Rolls
Notice - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (4) = 4
1d6 : (4) = 4
With another and much louder scream Horace follows the others outside, his Colt Peacemaker drawn and ready as he slides his spectacles back up his nose and draws his hat down over his brow to fend off some of the rain but not block his line of sight.
He places the item back in his undershirt, clumsily hops off the barstool, and begins rummaging in his backpack. After a minute of digging deep he pulls out an item that looks to be rolled up in a soft, leather rag. He undoes the rag and a shiny, spit-polished Colt .45 comes out. Feeling it's heft, he makes sure the chamber is full, then digs back again and pops a few extra bullets in his pocket.
As he heads back toward the cold rain, he passes the Marshall and tips his hat at her "Thank you for understanding ma'am. Please be careful out there."
Pine Lumber Town, Outside | The Forming Posse
It's a small town, just a crossroad, on the side of pine covered hill. Rain continues to pelt the rough lumber buildings.
Jeremiah Cross, you see a hulking figure scrambling in the first floor window of a building about 20 meters down the muddy street. Despite the clouds and rain, a massive moon gives a otherwordly glow to the tableau. Whatever is climbing in has a fur covered backside, obvious in even the dim light (-2).
What do the strangers intend to do?
Rolls
Notice - (1d4-2, 1d6-2, RA)
1d4-2 : (3) - 2 = 1
1d6-2 : (4) - 2 = 2
Persuasion - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (5) = 5
1d6 : (4) = 4
She responds to Rathgar. "It started 'bout six, maybe seven months back. First it was in the lumber camps, yonder up in them hills." A *clink* as she pulls the lever, chambering a round. "Couple nights in a row, an animal--a beat--tore through and left a trail of half eaten folk."
"It was just a couple nights an' nothin' more. So we thought it was a bear or somethin'. But then it happened the next month--just a couple nights but folk who live out in the pines got all tore up. Well...true to God...it's been happen monthly, and we've noticed it's the nights when the moon is full, or just about near so."
Horace follows Jeremiah's eyes as it looks like he's seen something that grabbed his attention.
Rolls
Faith - (1d4, 1d6, RA)
1d4 : (43) = 7
1d6 : (4) = 4
Stepping inside he shakes off his hat, draws his colt and looks up the stairs.
Jeremiah, you make it to the second floor as you hear a *crash* from down the hall to your right--followed quickly by a young woman running in to said hall from a bedroom. She slams into the hallway wall while screaming at the top of her lungs.
Nathaniel your view is only slightly obstructed, over Jeremiah's shoulder perhaps, as you both see a massive, lupine muzzled beast creep into the hall.
"It looked like whatever it was would jus' eat the innards, but mayhaps it took some sorta pleasu..."
She bumps in to Horace's back. "What is it?! What's up there?!"
With the screams and odd noises, Horace is prepared for the worst as he slowly creeps up the stairs. His hat is still wet and drips some, leaving small puddles behind on the stairs.
Rolls
Spirit - Fear check - (1d8-2, 1d6-2, RA)
1d8-2 : (7) - 2 = 5
1d6-2 : (1) - 2 = -1
"Go! Get downstairs and get to the bar!" Jeremiah bellows just as the abomination creeps out into the hall. Fur-covered and snarling, the primal instinct in him screams for him to run as his heart begins to race. The words of the young boy beside him, courageous and righteous alike, earns a grim smile from the man as his grip tightens on the blade.
"Come, hellspawn! Let us show you the face of your maker!" Jeremiah takes a fearless step forward, rising to his full height as a challenge. His free hand grabs the woman and pulls her behind him, out of the way of harm.
Rolls
Spirit - (1d6-2, 1d6-2, RA)
1d6-2 : (4) - 2 = 2
1d6-2 : (63) - 2 = 7
Jeremiah you fairly drag the woman behind you. As the beast roars and lunges at you--it's meal priorities shifted!
~
Action Round 1 -- Jeremiah Cross is up first. What do you do?
1. Cross
2. Beast
3. Bigby
4. Phinny
5. Kaladin
"Kid, line up a shot and take it. I'll keep it back as much as I can." The burly man says just as the beast begins to pounce.
1. Cross
2. Beast
3. Bigby
4. Phinny
5. Kaladin
Rolls
Fighting v J.C. Parry of 10 - (1d12+2, RA)
(9) + 2 = 11
Dmg Roll v J.C.'s Toughness of 7 - (1d12+2+1d8, RA)
(4) + (7) + 2 = 13
Rolls
Vigor (Soak) - (1d8, 1d6, RA)
1d8 : (5) = 5
1d6 : (1) = 1
Rolls
Shooting - (1d4, 1d6, RA)
1d4 : (3) = 3
1d6 : (5) = 5
Damage - CP (.45) - (2d6+1, RA)
(45) + 1 = 10
Rolls
Shooting - (1d8, 1d6, RA)
1d8 : (86) = 14
1d6 : (64) = 10
Colt Peacemaker - (1d8+2d6+1, RA)
(7) + (45) + 1 = 17
The Beast is clearly has lost its taste for this conflict and is beginin' to turn and scamper back down the hall...
Also, Everyone Make an Occult Roll, please.
Rolls
Occult - (1d4-2.1d6-2, RA)
(2) + (2) - 4 = 0
Occult, But Not F'd Up - (1d4-2, 1d6-2, RA)
1d4-2 : (3) - 2 = 1
1d6-2 : (3) - 2 = 1
Rolls
Occult - Unskilled - (1d4-2, 1d6-2, RA)
1d4-2 : (3) - 2 = 1
1d6-2 : (2) - 2 = 0
Rolls
Occult - (1d4-2, 1d4-2, RA)
1d4-2 : (1) - 2 = -1
1d4-2 : (2) - 2 = 0
The entry hall, stairway an' upstairs hall all reek of gun smoke & metallic blood tang.
None of ya'll are sure what you're looking at--is this creature natural, supernatural; it's hard to say.
But one thing is certain--it took two shots (that should have at least severally wounded it) and seems unaffected in the slightest!
It roars in agitation and runs down the short hall, fast as a wolf on the hunt, and leaps through the second story window, out in to the night, with a mighty *crash*.
~
Otherwise, what do these folks who just met in a saloon do? How do they proceed from here?
He cautiously steps up to the broken window and looks out, trying to see if he can follow where the beast went.
Rolls
Notice - (1d6-2, 1d6-2, RA)
1d6-2 : (2) - 2 = 0
1d6-2 : (5) - 2 = 3
Horace stands at the window next to Nathanial despite the rain as he watches the creature disappear.
Rolls
Occult - (1d4-2, 1d4-2, RA)
1d4-2 : (43) - 2 = 5
1d4-2 : (1) - 2 = -1
Punctuating Horace's proclamation, Nathaniel, the weather, darkness, and thick pines all about, have obscured the beasts flight from you. You just have a vague idea that it headed east.
The floor creaks as Kaladin adds his weight to hall and approaches the window.
Kaladin, your mind would whirl with the truth of the beast--werewolf.
It'd all make sense to you! Legends of the beast state only one whose love is true for the afflicted can calm the beast within...and only silver has a chance of wounding such a creature.
Horace was excited to potentially get involved with the beast as scary as it seemed. Maybe if whatever it was became cornered he could get some information out of it. Perhaps gain an insight into what he might have seen when his experiment went awry. Since the apparition had smiled at him, how bad could it be?
She hears Mr. Bigby's question and looks expectantly at Kaladin.
As she waits for an answer, she asks the group at large, "Any idear which way it went...?" She looks past the posse, out into the night.
Horace points in the direction where he saw the beast run after it crashed through the second-story window.
"But he could have turned at any time and headed the devil only knows where once he was out of view, marshall."
She sighs. "If that...thing... is still feelin' peckish after the shots you gave it, it's gonna have a regular feast. I guess there ain't nothin' to do for it now..."
She looks back at Kaladin, waitin' on his insights.
turning to Sue: you've been dealing with this for a while, what can you tell us of this beast and any patterns of behavior/attack targets - anything would help really.
turning to everyone: unless you guys have some silver bullets we better think of a plan before we go running after it...
"Looks like we're going to need the patronage of the town to help slay this beast then." Jeremiah murmurs, sheathing his knife before looking back at the others. "We can see who can donate what they can. Marshall, do you have a blacksmith or a gunsmith in town?" The big man preferred that they had the latter, truthfully, but he would make due with what they could get.
To be sure they had their work cut out for them but half the battle was getting the silver.
Nathaniel blinks his eyes hard wait, speaking of love Looking back at the Marshall, "Mr. Kaladin mentioned true love, have there been any known tiffs or gossip about such in the town or surrounding areas? Was the lady screaming out here more then just a random victim?" Thinking some more, "Does the beast only attack at night? If so, maybe some of us can work on getting silver, and some can try to gather more information at the lumber yard or around town."
She turns to Mr. Cross and Mr. Phinney. "We sure do have a blacksmith. Town was boomin' until all this started. James Hayes. He'll be at his bellows come first light, if I know 'im at all." She blushes a tad.
Sue clears her throat then turns to Nathaniel.
"There's drama now an' then round town--lover's quarrels and the like. But we're polite folk round here, and try not to pry into such things..." her face reddens more. "Either way, if you dig I'm sure ya'll find all sorts of late night callin's and love affairs."
So let's transition on to the mornin'
Come morning the pine forests round the town drip rain water with a *pitter* *patter*. The air smells heavy of wet wood, sap an' mud.
Where do we find our thrown together travelers? How are you each approaching this morning? What are you doing on this wet spring morning?
After last night's harrowing event and the long days travel getting here, Nathaniel parted ways with everyone and got a room at the inn. Exhaustion hit him like a brick and he barely made it to the bed. After a comatose like slumber though, he felt better, moreso than usual in his travels West so far. Probably because it's not my usual train car, the outdoors, or someone's barn. It's rare he got to sleep in a proper bed these days, which made it all the more difficult to get out of this one. His groan turning into a sigh, These people need our help and time is short. Do the job. Nathaniel got out of bed, dressed, and headed downstairs in hopes of getting some breakfast and a coffee, all while formulating a plan on how to best tackle getting information from the townsfolk.
The tavern room of the saloon has cleared out since last night. I'd imagine a few tables have some woodsmen, and perhaps a townsperson or two sittin' at the bar.
As advertised via chalk and bark, coffee & breakfast will run any of ya'll 25 cents.
"Looks like we have another moon's time to get those silver bullets made and formulate a plan. We are too late this time. I can see about talking to James Hayes if someone else wants to go see May Decker?"
Rolls
Networking - Persuasion - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (3) = 3
1d6 : (5) = 5
Charismatic - Free reroll - Persuasion - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (2) = 2
1d6 : (5) = 5
Rolls
Networking - Persuasion (Benny) - (1d6+2, 1d6+2, RA)
1d6+2 : (1) + 2 = 3
1d6+2 : (5) + 2 = 7
Charismatic - Persuasion (Benny) - (1d6+2, 1d6+2, RA)
1d6+2 : (1) + 2 = 3
1d6+2 : (63) + 2 = 11
I picture a montage of folk gawkin' at the young boy and his earnestness. Most folks look away, embarrassed or disbelieving that any of this is real...
But, on the rickety wooden porch outside the cathouse a young, disheveled man whistles to get Nathaniel's attention.
Horrace
tossing 30 cents on the bar for his breakfast and coffee - Kaladin catches whispers of folks speaking of a young man making a plea for information... his mind drifts to Nathanial and puts the two pieces together.
as Nathanial runs past on his return to the inn, Kaladin catches his arm and stops him. Looking at the young man - "folks be whispering about your requests for help, have you learned anything? "
Mostly cleared out as folk have gone about their days. Gossip round the town is about the dust-up the strangers had at May Decker's.
Are any of you around to be found by Nathaniel? Have you struck out on your own?
I misread the post my Nathanial, made an edit so it fits in with the timeline.
I'm chatting with Nathanial at the saloon when he returns.
"Damn it all, overslept." Jeremiah mumbled, standing up and making his way downstairs after dressing once more. Twenty-five cents was paid as he ate, drinking his black coffee down before standing up and shouldering the variety of weapons he had brought with him.
"Excuse me sir, you see where the others went? That thing ain't done yet." Jeremiah asked, being pointed to the blacksmith's shop. The brawny religious man makes his way to where he was instructed, coming across Horace as he gets ready to talk to the man.
"Morning folks. I see we're of the same mind." Jeremiah says with a small, albeit grim, smile. "I'm sure my acquaintance here was about to ask if you can make us some silver bullets."
He grabs his gear, really just his gun and a few other tidbits, and heads out the door, not waiting to see if the man with a hat follows. we really need to get each other's names.
The forge fires blazes, casting a nice warmth. The smell of hot metal, coal and wood is overwhelming.
Squeals and creaks punctuate the din as wagons and carriages roll by on the muddy street outside.
An' not long after...
You find yourself trudging uphill, through dense pine forest. Birdsong, and the pitter patter of wet needles drippin' on the forest floor.
He points to a bend in the trail and a grouping of glacial erratic rocks. "It's right up here, I'll introduce ya'll so there ain't no problems." Benny eyes Nathanial suspiciously. "You know. Ya seem a bit green, and a bit of a dude, if'n you don't mind me sayin'. Where're your parents? You run from your homestead or sumthin'?"
He rummages around in his coat for a vial. "And I have this powerful elixir I'm willing to trade ya for 'em. You are coming out on the right side of that deal lemme tell ya."
Rolls
Persuasion* - (1d4, 1d4, RA)
1d4 : (2) = 2
1d4 : (1) = 1
Nathaniel looks back at the bend that Bennie mentioned, hoping to change the subject, "How did you end up here Mr. Hudson?"
"One: I ain't sure there is a "beast" no matter what the superstitious townsfolk say, an' that felt mighty close to a threat pardner."
"Two: even if there's some penny dreadful creature runnin' amuck, let's say you do put it down; we'll business picks right back up after an' my reputation is shot."
He shakes his head at Horace. "No old timer. I'll take yer money and make you any type of bullet you want. But that's gonna be in three days time. An' that's that."
In answer to Nathaniel's question he says, "Why I'm a no good, freeloadin' ramblin' gambler. This just happens to be my most recent stop. Spent a week winnin' trinkets and US backed coin from the camps round here. I ain't never knew no family of any kind, nor a life not on the trail. In fact--"
But Bennie stops talking as ya'll round the bend and find yourselves at edge of the camp.
The camp sits in a clearing, pine stumps, branches an' sawdust all around canvas tents. What Bennie is referring to is a cluster of folk gathered round one of the tents near the center of the camp. The mood in the crowd seems to be one of excitement, worry, and curiousity.
Horace tips his hat as if to leave...
Workin' your way through the crowd, Nathaniel, you'd find yourself looking looking at a man whose clearly a physician talking to rugged mountain type fella whose laying on a cot with his shoulder bandaged up.
"He got mauled by a bear last night. Tore him up good, but the doc thinks he'll be alright." You'd know he's referencing the man who is laying on the cot.
"Like my associate, Horace, here said, you might be calling us liars. There is something hunting men and women down and even if you don't believe it, the town does." His stomach tightens, upset that need calls upon old tactics. "If another man or woman is torn apart, it'll be because you didn't have the time. How is the town going to think of the man who could've helped them."
Rolls
Intimidate - (1d4, 1d6, RA)
1d4 : (3) = 3
1d6 : (2) = 2
Intimidate - (1d4, 1d6, RA)
1d4 : (1) = 1
1d6 : (1) = 1
Rolls
Persuasion* - (1d4, 1d4, RA)
1d4 : (1) = 1
1d4 : (442) = 10
His voice doesn't drip disdain, but there's a nice coatin' that's for sure.
He calms a bit and turns to answer Nathaniel and Kaladin. "Well, it's like this see: I was strolling down the hill yonder (sure I had me a bottle but what I do after a day o'work ain't no one's concern but my own), an' I headed down to Creekwick Falls. I arrive just in time to see the largest buck I ever had the pleasure to lay eyes on..."
He stops his story to ask, "Say either of you have a drink? I'm mighty thirsty..."
"I musta passed right out, because the next thing I knew it was daylight. I got up and stumbled back to camp..."
"Last I seen it...it was down at the falls."
But despite your well put words, the man is determined to resist. "I will not be to blame," he snarls. "Never again..." he mutters.
"You want my help? You go find my free-loadin' son an' get his sorry hide back here ta help me. Get his nose out of his books for a gol-darn minute. You do that an I'll have the man power to make you a few of your ridiculous bullets."
He turns to his hand operated bellows. "Now be off, will ya?"
Rolls
Notice - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (4) = 4
1d6 : (5) = 5
You can tell without a doubt that the wounded man is being earnest and not lying.
Horace never had much patience for men like Mr. Hayes, all full of arrogance and generally on the wrong side of logic.
Looking at his traveling partners, "We should go check out the falls, see if we can find anything else. Mr. Hudson, if not too much trouble, can you take us there?"
He leads the way off in to the woods, talkin' about the time his spent in Dodge City...
Indeed, 20 minutes later you find yourself at the forest pool. The sound of the waterfall thrumming in your ears. The air feels wet and misty.
Sure enough, in at the side of the pool is a large, tore up buck, its blood staining the muddy ground round it.
Rolls
Survival with a +2 as he knows the area. - (1d6+2, RA)
(4) + 2 = 6
Rolls
Notice - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (5) = 5
1d6 : (3) = 3
Survival - Unskilled - (1d4-2, 1d6-2, RA)
1d4-2 : (3) - 2 = 1
1d6-2 : (4) - 2 = 2
Notice - Benny - (1d6+2, 1d6+2, RA)
1d6+2 : (1) + 2 = 3
1d6+2 : (1) + 2 = 3
Unskilled - Benny - (1d4, 1d6, RA)
1d4 : (3) = 3
1d6 : (2) = 2
Rolls
Notice - (1d4, 1d4, RA)
1d4 : (1) = 1
1d4 : (2) = 2
Survival - (1d4, 1d4, RA)
1d4 : (1) = 1
1d4 : (1) = 1
Shrugs. "He ain't right. Sometimes he walks in the pines. Reads under trees an' all that. Sometimes he talks to the lumberjacks up in the camps."
"You might thank me some day for saving your sorry .... ah nevermind," Horace heads off toward the woods without finishing his sentence. No point in angering the man anymore than he already had.
The buch appears to have had its neck torn in to with some mighty large jaws, then it's belly eaten from. Flys buzz round the carcus.
Neither of your woodcraft abilities indicates which way the attacker could have come from, or could have gone.
But there are two obvious ways regardless--uphill farther in to the hills, or downhill back toward the town.
Townsfolk watch you pass with suspicions looks as you make your way to the swaying pine ridge, Jeremiah in tow.
Your at the edge of the wood now. The wind in the trees set the boughs to groaning something fierce.
As Nathaniel says that, he sees the path going up farther into the hills. "Hmm, since we're already here maybe we should go up the path a bit more. If we don't find anything soon, let's head back and meet up with the others. Perhaps they'll have better news."
The thickly packed trees make, and, as you noted, the strong wind make it hard to spot anything out here. But still...
Or you may end up wanderin' straight to lumber camp with no sign.
Rolls
Notice * - (1d6-2, 1d6-2, RA)
1d6-2 : (664) - 2 = 14
1d6-2 : (2) - 2 = 0
The massive trees keep the forest floor clear of bushes and brambles, at least. It's dense, but at least you can walk easy enough.
Despite the rough day, it's not long before you see a young man walk between the trees, muttering to himself as he goes.
Hello there friend! I wonder if you could help me?
"God Almighty man, you spooked me." His hand wanders to his shoulder and holds it as if the quick movement had caused him pain. "What sorta help you need?"
Despite your unthreatening approach he seems suspicious. He's also barefoot.
Horace scans the woods and the man up close. He seems like he might be running from something and didn't want to scare him further with a flurry of questions. Let the man speak of his on accord he decides.
Suddenly, the hill levels out and a clearly is before you. You smell woodsmoke and earth. A small rickety cabin sits tucked near the trees, chickens scratchin' the dirt nearby.
Horace, there's no sign of any pursuer, through the trees.
"But yeah, I've heard the stories of a monster loose round these parts. And I know many round here believe it. But I read 'bout the natural world, so I ain't so taken by superstition as easy. An' ain't never seen anything bad in these woods, except a bear once."
The young man fidgets. "Sides, I'm from round here and know these woods like the back of my hand. Maybe I should be askin' you why you're creeping about."
Horace notes that the young man is a mite bit fidgety.
Did you hurt your feet? I saw you grimace. perhaps I can help?
He looks down at his feet. "Nah, my feet are fine. I--" half beat hesitation--"stumbled on my climb up hill and knocked it on a rock. It's fine though."
He points uphill and slightly to the right. "If you head that way you'll run in to the closest of the lumber camps."
He turns to leave, though the direction he is about to head off is obviously not back to town...
Horace had no doubt that the boy was hiding something and was pretty sure he didn't knock anything on a rock let alone his feet.
Emotions play across his face as he decides whether or not to continue talking with you--deciding if your words and manner have Persuaded him...
He's used to resisting his father, giving him a greater than average spirit.
Nathaniel, a window is beside the door, open to the cool March air. No shutter or curtain obscures your view if you choose to peek inside.
A thought crosses his mind, "Bennie, we really appreciate you taking us out this far, but mayhap you best stay here. If there's someone in there, they may well be very dangerous."
Nathaniel continues on, crouching below the open window and peeking his head up over the sill.
Nathaniel, looking inside you'd see a hut that's pretty rough and bare. Dirt floor an' all.
Leaning over a large kettle of bubbling stew is an old hill woman. She crumbles dry herbs of some sort, between her leathery hands, in to the container.
Rolls
Notice - (1d4, 1d4, RA)
1d4 : (41) = 5
1d4 : (3) = 3
Rolls
Persuasion* - (1d4-2, 1d4-2, RA)
1d4-2 : (2) - 2 = 0
1d4-2 : (2) - 2 = 0
1d4-2 : (2) - 2 = 0
1d4-2 : (2) - 2 = 0
Kaladin, nothing looks amiss or dangerous to your eyes. Just a normal ol' dirty unkempt hermits cabin, with too many herbs hung to dry from the rafters.
Kaladin walks to the door and knocks twice.
Rolls
Persuasion* - (1d4-2, 1d4-2, RA)
1d4-2 : (2) - 2 = 0
1d4-2 : (441) - 2 = 7
Kaladin, your knocking echoes through the clearing, causing several crow to take flight with loud CAW CAWin'. Some feathers float down around.
A Metaphorical Precipices Under the Pines | Horace
And then stops. He seems to have changed his mind. Perhaps he sees fate has brought him a confidant. He sighs. "Look... I don't know you from Adam, but maybe that's a good thing. Just--just follow me and I'll explain on the way." He laughs, sadly to himself. "But ya ain't gonna believe me old timer. I don't even believe me. I think I'm losing my mind..."
He starts heading off deeper in to the forest, parallel to the town--but waiting to see that you follow him.
Do you follow him Horace?
To say Horace was well and truly hooked on the mystery now would be an understatement. He followed along enthusiastically.
He hopes a knee high log and offers a hand to old ol' Horace if he takes it.
"I write their tales and stories down--fantastic adventures.
Well maybe not as fantastic as Jules Vern, but to me it's somethin'. I wanna travel the world! Explore stuff."
He holds a fern back for Horace to walk past.
"But some seem agitated by that and beg me to stay--sayin' it ain't safe to walk the woods. Anyway, I was getting afeared so I left. But.."
He stops. The Pines blow in the wind.
"On the way back home I was savaged by a beast." He starts walking again. "Some of the traveling folk came outta no where and chased it off. I thought I was not long for this earth, what with the way I was bleeding. But they nursed me and by the next day... my wounds was healed..."
The path you're on takes a sharp turn round a ridge then down toward an old pine log bridge spanning a gurgling creak.
"I thought it all odd but behind me. Then the nightmares started. And the fevers an' chills. I saw ghosts and vomited all I ate for a week. Until the full moon... then I transformed. In to a monster; or at least I imagine I did! Its all so unreal! I have memories of running the night forest, and, and and mauling and eating... eating people."
A woman stands up from sitting on the bridge--she wasn't obvious before.
They both look at Horace to see how he feels after all this information has been dumped on him.
Horace claps his hands together gleefully. He can't believe his luck.
"You have been made into a werewolf young man but have no fear. You only need to confine yourself every full moon and you will hurt no one. All the rest of the days you can live as your normal self! Why this is amazing. You are a lucky man indeed. You have been blessed."
Turning to the lady he asks, "And you are? perhaps you would be willing to help him stay confined on the aforementioned day?"
She looks at Horace and says, "We tried that Mister. One month I helped Billy into a mine shaft and pulled the ladder up after me."
She stares loving and deep into Williams eyes as she continues. "He howled all night but couldn't get out to eat. This was the first of his three nights... and hand to God he almost died for want of...eaten..."
"As to your question, well there's always something 'out of the ordinary' round rhese parts." She cackles.
"Come, sit. I'll read your palm." She pats the stool next to her.
taking a seat next to the old woman, and extends his hand while keeping a close watch on the woman.
"Mmm. Mmm. MMM. Your past. It's closer than you think. I see its line intersects here." She pokes your palm. "You'll be dealin' with it before the moon is out..."
"A big decision is looming, with lives hangin' in the balance. I see two moons in your sky, not one."
"But more immediate: I advise you find wolfsbane in the nearby hollow, hang it round your neck an' leave town."
"The beast you seek fears it. And," she points to a pentagram scrawled on her wall in a dark red substance, "it can't stand the mark of Baphomet. But your faith would need strength carry that sign."
"That is all I see."
Horace listens intently his eyes widening in excitement. "Ah three days is it? Well then someone brings you food then or else you will perish? Is that correct?"
"Except, this ain't something natural. This is a curse, there's no question about it." The sweat is fairly running off him now.
"It's not just meat the monster wants. It ain't just flesh. It's the fear, and, God have mercy, it's the soul."
"If I close my eyes, I can see them--those I ate. I see their lives while I eat 'em."
He looks sadly at Horace. "I'm open to tryin' anything though... Just, tell me what you want me to do?"
Rolls
Notice - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (61) = 7
1d6 : (1) = 1
Turning to William Horace says,"Well, young man I don't rightly know. But I do have something. You see I was working on a longevity elixir and ... well ... the potion went rogue on me. I called up some kind of entity. Perhaps if you have nothing to lose you would be interested in drinking it?
You'd be certain that nothin' seems amiss about her demeanor. In some way, she seems ambivalent to it all, but definitely NOT malicious or misleading.
He shrugs. "What else do I have to lose?"
"Tell me aboit this elixer and what you expect from it..."
"Come in boy; no need to lurk round my house."
"As to your question, I can only interpret what I see--ancient lore says the curse that creates the monster you seek to stop wishes to spread itself, to cause more misery in the world."
"Indeed, the poor young man afflicted in this town was himself given the curse by another. The curse will seek to spread itself when it fears its end is near."
William takes a deep breath, and winces at the pain it causes his belly.
He shrugs. "What else do I have to lose?"
"Tell me aboit this elixer and what you expect from it..."
Horace scratches his head and adds, "I suppose it could make you worse."
He withdraws his potion, holding it up for the young man to see. "Your choice young man."
"Baphomet is manifestation of balance--neither good, nor evil," she motions with her free hand, palm up then flipping it over.
"Baphomet has always been, and will be long after the world has moved on. Crusader Knights learned of Baphomet, in the hidden places of the world, and brought him back to the Christian west where he was labeled a demon."
She cackles softly. "Demon is too small in scope, and crude. That is something my sisters and I knew well."
She raises an eyebrow, indicating she will answer more questions should you have them.
"I've given my help to the townsfolk, when they've asked. But they only do when they're desperate, generally."
A sly smile. Relents a bit. "We're all over, dearie. I have hundreds o'sisters. We, too, often meet when the moon is full. But only on occasion. An' that's all I'll say on that."
Apart from some kind of alcoholic beverage to wet his own whistle, Horace plans to let the young man drink his potion. He's done for anyway in his estimation. A life not worth living is his future.
The day is quickly passing by. Not much longer 'til the sun will be settin'.
May goes first through the back alleys of the small, wooden town. She leads ya'll up next to the back door and unlocks the padlock with a large key from around her neck.
The store is cozy and smells of wood and burlap.
He looks to Horace and Asks, "So you know what you'd need? To make this elixir?"
"Just a few more questions. You mentioned a poor young man in town being afflicted. Do you know who it is that has this disease? Is there a cure? If not, how do we bring the beast down, and make sure this disease no longer spreads?"
"I keep outta the affairs of the town as much as I can. They come to me when their silly preacher ain't offerin' them no good advice or solutions. But I always ask a price..."
"I don't know who is the one afflicted--I just know what I hear. A beast; a were-beast. That's what's troublin' the townsfolk."
She smiles, "The only true way to bring down such a beast is silver--silver and a beheadin'." The smile becomes slyer. "But, there are other ways to 'put the beast to sleep', as it were, so the human soul remains in control. I know the magic for such a spell, but I ain't no alchemist--no, not me. I can say the words, and do the rituals, but I'd need learned folk to assist me..."
I .. well I don't rightly know what might happen. I made it with the idea of a longer life you see but I had a mishap and one of the bottles blew up and for an instant, some kind of being appeared, smiled at me, and then disappeared! So you see it's magic but of what kind I simply cannot say.
Horace is a little nervous. You have nothing to lose though do you?
He's also a bit chafed by her demeaning attitude toward the town preacher, but lets it go for now.
Thinking to himself, "of course I would end up at a town hunted by a werewolf... what are the odds..." than shaking his head to clear his troublesome thoughts.
turning towards the lady, you mentioned the townsfolks come to you for help. Would you happen to know how a someone gets afflicted with the "curse" of being a werewolf? have there been any other incidents that are far from normal?
William reaches for the bottle.
Science Roll at -4, please! But....a failure could have a pretty nasty side-effect.... So it's your call if you want to try it!
"Hm. I could certainly assist. In fact, I'll go with you, into town, if ya'll would be so kind as to offer an old woman assistance. I'm needed to freshen up my work at the saloon, as it is."
She stands, with man a pop of old bones. "As to your question young man," she says to Kaladin. "It's said that the bite of the beast spreads the curse."
She hobbles to a work table and picks up a large, leather bound book. She continues as she walks back to Kaladin and Nathaniel. "Of course, I'll need payment from one of ya'll. I'd think from you, Peach Cheeks," she says to Nathaniel.
"And your signature to seal the deal." She cracks the book open and places it on the fireside stool...
She awaits your answers.
Glancing furtively at his companion then back at Ms. Evans, "May I ask though what kind of payment is required?"
She pulls out a small pen knife and a feather pen.
Horace's eyes fairly sparkle with excitement and anticipation with not even the smallest care for the poor man who he considers lost anyway.
She squints at you. "What are you? Thirteen? You won't even notice for a good long while. 'Sides, you're more like to doe well before any natural demise."
The General Store
Rolls
Science - (1d6-4, 1d6-4, RA)
1d6-4 : (66664) - 4 = 24
1d6-4 : (2) - 4 = -2
"Ms. Evans, do you mind if we talk in private for a moment?"
(Cowboy slang used as an exclamation meaning ridiculous, or lack of belief)
For a moment nothing happens.
He doubles over, and clutches his stomach.
But then he straightens. "I'm--I'm alright May." William looks at Horace and wipes his brow. "By golly Mr. Phiney, I think I'm alright!"
He stares into the middle distance. "An' the ghouls...it's like they gone quiet..." he looks at Horace. "Ya know?"
A knock sounds at the general store door. Everyone jumps with a start and stares at the door.
If you follow after Alta, and her hobbling walk, you'd arrive in her cluttered bedroom. She opens a large bag with a snap of a buckle and starts loading herbs, paints, stones, etc.
She's obviously waiting for your questions.
"By golly, it seems to have worked!" He opens his jacket to reveal the other potion bottles with a wide smile.
"Well there is plenty where that came from. Perhaps a .... Oh! Expecting company?"
The sound of the knock hangs in the air...
A second, louder series of knocks pounds on the door.
"It's my Pa!"
A key starts to rattle in the lock. Everyone looks to Horace to see what he advises... he is, after all, a learned man...
Horace being Horace, is all about Horace so he is perfectly fine with the man entering. As far as what has been going on, he will remain silent. He quickly snatches the now empty bottle and closes his jacket as he awaits the man's entrance.
...and enter the man does. The door squeals on rusty hinges, and the timber floor groans as May's father enters.
His spurs jinggle as he walks. Two heavy lookin' peacemakers drag his gun belt at his hips.
After just a moments hesitation, and a nod from May, William exits the general store.
Once the young man's exited, May turns angry on her father but he holds a hand up to silence her.
He stops. Takes a deep breath. Continues calmly. "Later. We'll finish this later. Now. Who are these two?"
Mr. Decker looks at Horace expecting an introduction.
Stepping out the front door next, he gives Benny a wave and reassuring smile, and waits for Ms. Evans to finish gathering her things.
Horace is of course used to chancing his arm and takes the unexpected arrival of the men in his stride. "These folks here have been entertaining an old man's ramblings."
The Mysterious Stranger lights his cigar of a long stemmed match, struck from the butt of one of his guns.
"I don't care about none of that," he says as he puffs his cigar alight.
"You arrived in town with two other men, is that right Mr. Phinney? Well, a one weren't nothin' but a boy, but you catch my draft."
He takes a slow draw from his smoke. "Where are those two now?"
He hitches his thumbs in his gungelt--he's got quick draw holsters, you see.
"I'm lookin' fer the older one. Folks here tell me y'all arrived together, at the saloon, last night."
His hand whips from his gun belt, up faster than a rattlin' snake! It comes to rest before your face; it's just a handbill with a young man's face drawn on it. "He goes by the name Kaladin. Don't know if that's his real name. An' don't care. But I know you seen him, old timer."
"Shoot. You boys been in there a long time. Daylight's burnin' up." He wipes sweat from his brow and returns his hat to his head.
Behind y'all, the Cabin door swings open then closes with a clatter. A woman has stepped out into the fading sunlight.
She carries a large, faded and rough bag.
Horace smiles thinly. He enjoys toying with the man.
Looking at Kaladin and Benny, "Like Bennie said, sun's setting, best if we can hustle it to town.". He doesn't mention anything about Alta's appearance, unless Kaladin decides to bring it up, and starts to head back toward town.
The group trudged through the pines, insects whirring in chorus around them.
"It's possible the woods has been picked clean for the season, given the fear the townsfolk had. But we have a moment to search."
Just let me know your choice IC or OOC.
Mr. Decker points at the Mysterious Stranger. He explains to Horace, "This here is Willis Talley--yes THE Willis Talley; famed bounty hunter and shootist..."
"Now Mr. Phinney," he says to Horace, "if I'm reading between the lines, as they say, you're asking for a bribe for your cooperation? Is that so?"
God I sure hope so
Hearing Ms. Evans speak, Nathaniel goes searching in the woods for wolfsbane.
Rolls
Survival (Unskilled) - (1d4-1, 1d6-1, RA)
1d4-1 : (42) - 1 = 5
1d6-1 : (3) - 1 = 2
Survival w. Benny - (1d4+1, 1d6+1, RA)
1d4+1 : (1) + 1 = 2
1d6+1 : (1) + 1 = 2
Up and down the hillside, in hollows, among the roots, you all search. But to no avail...
"Come along Mr. Bigby."
Nathaniel, your hands are already itching form the poison ivy you've picked through.
Nathaniel and Kaladin, you've come to the edge of the town as the sun is beginning to slant 'cross the treetops.
"Then I'll need ya ta help me get all setup. We won't have much time 'fore the sun goes down and the moon rises."
Alta lead the group toward the towns main street.
"I been gamblin' in this town for a fair bit now, and I ain't seen them seven horse 'fore."
The town is filled with the sounds of the Blacksmith's forge--*clang, clang, clang*.
A fair way down the street, the sunlight glints off the windows of the General Store....
No sign from The Lord yet.
Turning to Kaladin, "Mr. Kaladin, what did you have in mind?"
"Who is you are hinting uh ... Mr Talley. is it?"
He holds the handbill up for Horace. "Look close. Clean your spectacles if'n you need to. His name is Kaladin, an' me and my posse know he's here. Or at least that he was last night."
Horace, the picture he holds looks fairly close to the man Kaladin you met last evening, who assisted you in chasing off the beast.
Rolls
Persuasion* - (1d4, 1d4, RA)
1d4 : (443) = 11
1d4 : (42) = 6
...and then nods in satisfaction. "Well if you see 'im, I'd be happy to make it worth your while."
He tips his hat, then turns to walk out of the general store.
Rolls
"Is this man spinnin' yarn...?" - (1d8, RA)
(6) = 6
Rolls
notice - (1d4, 1d4, RA)
1d4 : (2) = 2
1d4 : (1) = 1
Whomever owns the gear is, obviously, also comfortable enough to leave their stuff out in the open...
The place is much less crowded than when you arrived last night. Nonetheless, townsfolk are starting to trickle in, to be in proximity to the protective symbol drawn on the wall.
He hands over a stack of bills to Alta. "An' you say hello to your Granny for me, you got that Lucy?"
She sees Nathaniel enter and waves him over. "Oh, an' Mr. Whitehead, could you please fetch that hog, and wine, for my associate here." She motions to Nathaniel.
To Nathaniel, "Do you know who the beast is? Or do you have an item dear to it's human slave?"
"Last chance to take some everlasting life elixir! Interested? I'll do you one better and throw two in for the price of one!"
"Excellent then. That will be 50 cents a bottle." He sticks a thumb into his jacket pouches and then once more again as removes two of the bottles containing the mysterious magical liquid. His happy face turns into a grimace at the interruption to the transaction when a man pokes his head in through the door.
"Indeed? Ah yes. Well ... I'll be along presently."
Mr. Decker pays your requested sum...
He studies your face, only slightly unimpressed by what he sees.
"Another storms blowin' in. I've told you enough that you'd know how to help me when it arrives, if'n you know what I mean. I always pay for assistance." He winks at you.
You follow Alta into the back kitchen where a little piglet snorts in a small wooden crate. A big bottle of wine sits on the shelf nearby.
She points at the pig, and then the nearby butchers block. "Do in that piglet and catch some blood in the pot hanging there," she instructs Nathaniel.
"When the time comes, I need ta be without distraction,
so thats gonna be your main role. Of cource, I may make requests of you as well..."
"I'll be getting along to the saloon now."
Horace leaves and walks to the saloon. He is pleased as punch at his sale and hopes to carry that luck over into the saloon. He has no intention of giving up Kaladin and could use a stiff drink. Then a few more sales and time to call it quits. He does wonder about sticking around in case any more cases of werewolvery arise as it seems his elixir does more than he thought it might. In fact, he is pretty sure that there are characteristics to it that have yet to manifest themselves but he risks being attacked should the results be deadly. He decides he will ponder the pros and cons at the bar with the company of some stomach warming alcohol.
Horace, you enter the saloon in the wake of several townsfolk--it appears the denizens of the town have begun to gather.
Nathaniel, Alta is checking the contents of her bag as she waits for you to slaughter the pig.
Kaladin, you'd have seen Wallis, then Benny, then Horace & Jeremiah all enter the saloon, one after the other.
"Can I interest any of you fine people in my wonderful elixir?" With a dramatic flourish he opens his multipocketed jacket, the little bottles clinking merrily.
He grabs a sharp knife, and holding the piglet firmly quickly runs it across the swine's neck. The blood sprays out, some of it collecting in the pot, the rest spraying across the block oh hell "Sorry! I'll clean this up after!" he yells out to Mr. Whitehead. He gently places the piglet back down on the block and covers it with a nearby rag. As the rag soaks in and darkens with the remaining blood the sickening feeling returns to Nathaniel. He swallows it down, goes over to fill the pot with wine, and thrusts it into Alta's hands. "There ya go."
She collects the bottle and the rest of the supplies she's prepped. "I thought it likely you weren't nothing but a city dude, but come now Mr. Bigby--how do you expect to make it in the west if'n you can't take livestock in hand without a shudder."
She heads for the door, connecting to the barroom.
Meanwhile in the Saloon's Barroom...
Men an' woman turn to examine Horaces' goods, the small bottles catching the light of the fire and scattered candles.
Horace removes five more bottles and smiles as he resists the urge to rub his hands together with glee.
"Receive the gift of longer life, health and happiness or give it to a coveted loved one. Just look at how the elixir glows in the light!"
Rolls
Persuasion* - (1d4, 1d4, RA)
1d4 : (3) = 3
1d4 : (2) = 2
Folk do gather round to hear your pitch and view your goods. But somethin' in the delivery, or the man who's makin' it perhaps, just doesn't entice folks well enough.
You're met with many a "Sorry pardner, not tonight" and many a head shake.
~
He makes his way to Horace and Jeremiah, and can't help but up the half grin to a full one, "Mr. Phinney, Mr. Cross, glad to see you made it back here without issue."
His smile falters a bit, "I'd like to introduce you to Ms. Alta Evans, she knows a thing or two about what's happening, with the beast, and would like to help us. Ms. Evans, can you tell them what you told Kaladin and I?"
She glares at the posse. "I'll need to be undisturbed, once I start."
To Horace, "I'll also need to know who the creature lives inside, or something they hold dear."
He lights up when he sees Nathaniel though. "Hello Nathaniel. I trust you are well." And to Alta he cocks his head, eyebrows floating upwards on his forehead. "Is that so Miss. Are you sure you can handle such a thing alone? Have you done this before?"
Horace wonders if it is a good idea to tell her of Will.
Her voice lowers, "It's likely my spell will attract the beast... It ain't gonna wanna be put to sleep."
Horace, Alta seems confident, but there's definitely an edge of uncertainty in her voice.
She heads out of the saloon.
"If anyone know anything about the beast, now's the time ta tell me. Otherwise, once I start castin' this, I reckon it's gonna come a'runnin'."
She looks up and down the muddy street. A deputy is goin' about lighting some lanterns fixed upon tall, pine poles in preparation for the night that's fast approaching. "Hmm. Let's do this in the stables." And she heads to the large, manure scented building next door.
Once inside Horace, who had been debating whether to tell them about Will or not decides it's time.
"The boy Will changes into the beast upon the coming of the full moon. I might have cured him but we won't know until the next full moon."
The party enters the barn, stabled horses neigh and stomp their their hooves.
She turns to Nathaniel. "Next thing ya can do to help is go an' fetch the boy. He's the blacksmith's son, so run across the way." She walks into an empty stall, and pushes hay out of the way with her foot. She begins to pull her components from the bag.
"I guess we'll see how good your magic is Mr. Phinney..."
"I suppose you will, yes indeedy."
You've been to the smithy, and talked young mister Hayes into coming with you--he'd do anything to be free of this affliction.
Gas lamps on polls cast waxy, yellow light on the street of the town. Folk bustle down the wooden walkways between the storefronts and houses, headed, mostly for the saloon.
Just as the three of you are hit the middle of the street...
"Now jus' hold up, and let's have the two of you come with us--I don't care a lick about the blacksmiths boy. Just you two..." and he points at Rathgar and Nathaniel.
Turning to the boy, not much older then Nathaniel really, "William, you should continue to the saloon, look for Mr. Phinney and Ms. Alta, they can help you." and hopefully us
Nathaniel looks behind him to see if the other three the man mentioned are indeed behind them.
Back out in the street, the day fades and the light of the moon shines down upon the showdown. Nathaniel, looking round you can see two folk with carbines on the upstairs verandas of two town homes behind you.
looking for any movement that indicates they are drawing/aiming their weapons, Kaladin is hoping to persuade the group the two of us are not worth the bloodbath but certainly ready to use his skills to put down the three in front of us.
Rolls
Persuasion - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (2) = 2
1d6 : (5) = 5
"It ain't necessarily about the money, my friend," he says in a plume of smoke. "Reputation is more valuable in the long run." His eyes dart between Kaladin and Nathaniel, the light from the hanging lamps making the ya'll seem like you're the only ones in the world...
...rolling...
Rolls
Willis, and his famous Spirit - (1d8, 1d6, RA)
1d8 : (4) = 4
1d6 : (2) = 2
And with that she begins to chant.
...somewhere in the distance, North of town, a wolf howl echoes in the hills. It has the sound of pain and anger....
"Mr. You've got three problems. One, need to check your eyesight. You said there were three men behind us and I only spot two. Two, this man," nodding at Kaladin, "is one of the quickest gunslingers I've ever seen, so one of y'all is not making it out alive, and three" pointing where the howling came from, "there's a fucking werewolf coming that will do the job for us if we fail!"
Rolls
Persuasion - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (3) = 3
1d6 : (3) = 3
Persuasion - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (62) = 8
1d6 : (1) = 1
...Rolling...
Rolls
Bill - (1d6, RA)
(3) = 3
Lance - (1d6, RA)
(1) = 1
Horace, you, along with everyone else in the stable, hear the responding sound of a lever action carbine cocking--cah-CHING
He's recognizable as one of Willis' posse, from in the saloon.
"What is the meaning of this?"
A howl echoes through the night, even closer now...
Lord protect us ... and these men, for they know not what they do
"If you want a fight, that beast will certainly provide it. I'd start aiming your guns that way." .... "Silver helps if you have it."
Hoping this will work, Horace waits to see if the bluff is effective.
Am I correct in understanding that my two gun kid edge allows me to make an extra attack with my off hand equals two actions. With one roll being Shooting Attribute +2 (vulnerability) and the other Shooting attribute +0?
If the action sequence card is not a high face card, I would like to spend a benny and use my Quick Draw edge.
Deck Draws
Action Order:
Goons
Rathgar
Horace
Willis
Nathaniel
If everyone is cool with order I'll post follow up in a bit.
@Windyridge Let's get a Persuasion roll -- ignore the negative modifier as he doesn't care what you look like, just what you're saying about a contagion.
Rolls
Persuasion* - (1d4, 1d4, RA)
1d4 : (3) = 3
1d4 : (1) = 1
-
Goons
Rathgar
Horace
Willis
Nathaniel
Rolls
Lance - (1d8-2, RA)
(6) - 2 = 4
Bill - (1d8-2, RA)
(5) - 2 = 3
Avery - (1d8, RA)
(7) = 7
Ginny - (1d8, RA)
(87) = 15
Lance DMG - (2d6+1, RA)
(43) + 1 = 8
Avery DMG - (2d8-1, RA)
(487) - 1 = 18
Ginny DMG - (2d8-1, 1d6, RA)
2d8-1 : (26) - 1 = 7
1d6 : (5) = 5
1. 8 dmg from a shot from Lance.
2. 18 dmg on a shot from Avery.
3. 12 dmg on a shot from Ginny.
Let us know what you are rolling to soak, taking, etc! You can handle them individually.
Kaladin Up Next!!
Rolls
Shooting (main hand) - (1d10, 1d6, RA)
1d10 : (7) = 7
1d6 : (1) = 1
Shooting (Off Hand) - (1d10-2, 1d6-2, RA)
1d10-2 : (7) - 2 = 5
1d6-2 : (5) - 2 = 3
DMG main hand - (3d6+1, RA)
(4363) + 1 = 17
DMG off hand - (2d6+1, RA)
(15) + 1 = 7
.... But no, seriously, are we? 😮
.... But no, seriously, are we? 😮
Rolls
Vigor 1d8 - (1d8, 1d6, RA)
1d8 : (5) = 5
1d6 : (3) = 3
Vig v 2 wounds - (1d8, 1d6, RA)
1d8 : (4) = 4
1d6 : (61) = 7
Soak v 1 wound (taken as he was shaken in first hit) -1 from wound - (1d8-1, 1d6-1, RA)
1d8-1 : (5) - 1 = 4
1d6-1 : (3) - 1 = 2
Action Order:
Goons
Rathgar
Horace
Willis
Nathaniel
Lance - Shaken
Avery - 3 wounds, remain Shaken
Ginny - 1 wound, remain Shaken
Rolls
Vigor - Soak vs Avery - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (3) = 3
1d6 : (4) = 4
Vigor - (1d6+2, 1d6+2, RA)
1d6+2 : (4) + 2 = 6
1d6+2 : (3) + 2 = 5
Vigor - (1d6+2, 1d6+2, RA)
1d6+2 : (2) + 2 = 4
1d6+2 : (64) + 2 = 12
Vigor - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (5) = 5
1d6 : (2) = 2
Rolls
Shooting - (1d8, 1d6, RA)
1d8 : (2) = 2
1d6 : (1) = 1
Colt Peacemaker - (1d8+2d6+1, RA)
(1) + (22) + 1 = 6
Shooting (spending a benny) - (1d8, 1d6, RA)
1d8 : (3) = 3
1d6 : (63) = 9
I wrote some trappings the zones have, but it's not exhaustive! So, yeah, if it makes sense that there would be things to hide behind, heck yeah! Horse troughs, as noted; and poles I'd imagine; and any porch fronting a building would have posts etc.!
Goons
Rathgar
Horace
Willis
Nathaniel
BUT Nathaniel Up!
Rolls
Shooting at Kaladin (1 wound) - (1d10-1, 1d6-1, RA)
1d10-1 : (3) - 1 = 2
1d6-1 : (5) - 1 = 4
Colt - (2d6+1, RA)
(65663) + 1 = 27
Shouting into the saloon "Excuse me, Mr. Cross and Mr. Phinney, but Kaladin and I could use your help!"
Rolls
Spirit - to Unshake - (1d8, 1d6, RA)
1d8 : (2) = 2
1d6 : (1) = 1
...cards drawn...
...new order:
Nathaniel,
Kaladin,
Horace,
Goons,
Willis
Deck Draws
It's clear Willis' got some cover behind his post (-2); but those other goons is wide open.
Shouting out toward the goons, "We need to band together! There's a monster coming that doesn't care about money or reputation, but if we take it down, with your help, you'll not only save the townsfolk, you'll be heroes! And people like to pay, and talk about, their heroes!"
Rolls
Test - Persuasion - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (5) = 5
1d6 : (1) = 1
Persuasion - Reroll (Charismatic) - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (2) = 2
1d6 : (2) = 2
...Goons Saved...
Rolls
Group roll for goons (meanin, wild die being used) - (1d8, 1d6, RA)
1d8 : (5) = 5
1d6 : (4) = 4
strarting: 4 wounds + shaken , bennies: 3/3
spending a Benny 2/3, soaked one wound
spending a Benny 1/3, soaked two wounds
Rolls
Vigor - soaking wounds - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (4) = 4
1d6 : (4) = 4
Vigor soaking wound #2 - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (1) = 1
1d6 : (61) = 7
Vigor - soarking last wound - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (2) = 2
1d6 : (1) = 1
Spirit to recover from shaken- 1 wound - (1d6-1, 1d6-1, RA)
1d6-1 : (4) - 1 = 3
1d6-1 : (3) - 1 = 2
"You got my help right here Nathanial!" He raises his gun and fires at the nearest goon.
Rolls
Shooting - (1d8, 1d6, RA)
1d8 : (1) = 1
1d6 : (4) = 4
Damage - (d8+2d6+1, RA)
(7) + (43) + 1 = 15
In the night, outside the back barn door a terrible growl rumbles. In the light of the moon, the beasts light brown fur fairly glows.
Kaladin,
Horace,
Goons, yer up!
Willis
...rolling dmg...
...success...
rolling dmg...
...fail...
Rolls
Lance V Bennie - (1d8, RA)
(87) = 15
Avery v Nat - (1d8-2, RA)
(81) - 2 = 7
Ginny v Nat - (1d8-2, RA)
(5) - 2 = 3
Lance dmg v Benny (T5) - (2d6+1, RA)
(165) + 1 = 13
Avery v Nat (?) - (2d8-1, RA)
(21) - 1 = 2
Kaladin,
Horace,
Goons,
Willis yer up!
...Basic success...
...Waiting on ( @ctme2000 ) Nathaniel's Opposed Roll, V 6...
Rolls
Willis Intimidate v Nathaniel Spirit - (1d8, 1d6, RA)
1d8 : (6) = 6
1d6 : (4) = 4
Rolls
Spirit - (1d8, 1d6, RA)
1d8 : (6) = 6
1d6 : (4) = 4
1. Acting party goes first and needs basic success; if they get basic success, their total is the TN for defender.
2. Defender needs to meet or exceed the TN.
You met so you win!
Beast
Kaladin
Goons
Horace
Willis
"Everyone okay?". His eyes widen again as he sees Kaladin and then Benny in poor states. "Benny?!. Running over, he sees if he can do anything to help with the injuries.
Rolls
Spirit - to Unshake - (1d8, 1d6, RA)
1d8 : (81) = 9
1d6 : (3) = 3
Unskilled - Healing - (1d4-2, 1d6-2, RA)
1d4-2 : (1) - 2 = -1
1d6-2 : (4) - 2 = 2
Beast yer up!
Kaladin
Goons
Horace
Willis
It's glowing eyes catch on Horace, and his still smoking gun. It roars, and its muscles bunch to leap--it's obvious it intends to attack the mad scientist, though the Run from the field will affect it.
Rolls
Spirit - Fear roll - (1d8-2, 1d6-2, RA)
1d8-2 : (885) - 2 = 19
1d6-2 : (3) - 2 = 1
Rolls
(Spirit) Fear - (1d6-2, 1d6-2, RA)
1d6-2 : (4) - 2 = 2
1d6-2 : (1) - 2 = -1
Rolls
(Spirit) Fear - (1d6-2, 1d6-2, RA)
1d6-2 : (2) - 2 = 0
1d6-2 : (5) - 2 = 3
Kaladin yer up!
Goons
Horace
Willis
...rolling Fear Outcomes in Order...
...Horace is (Distracted: The hero is Distracted until the end of his next turn)...
...Kaladin is Panicked: The character immediatelymoves his full Pace plus running die away from the danger and is Shaken.
Rolls
Horace, Kaladin - (1d20, 1d20, RA)
1d20 : (6) = 6
1d20 : (16) = 16
Rolls
(Unshake) spirit - (1d6, 1d6, RA)
1d6 : (1) = 1
1d6 : (3) = 3
Kaladin
Goons yer up!
Horace
Willis
...Failed...
He and Bill try to get a grip on Kaladin as the three run up the steps of the Saloon's porch--but they can't get a grip.
Rolls
Bill Athletic Test (+1 from Lance) vs TN4 - (1d6+1, RA)
(2) + 1 = 3
Rolls
Damage if hit - (d8+2d6+1, RA)
(7) + (43) + 1 = 15
Shooting -2 distracted - (1d8, 1d6, RA)
1d8 : (6) = 6
1d6 : (5) = 5
I'm super late to this post--it's been a week and a half, I tell ya what.
But seriously, is the intent to hit Bennie the ally?