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Topic: You Filthy Little Thief!!!
Subject: End of Chapter 1? Let's move this along!
Even though he was close to the door, Pio allowed the others to follow Ormander out of the office ahead of him. He took in each of his brothers and sister as the passed, making sure to make eye contact with them, trying to gauge their strength of character and commitment to see this mission to completion.
Will we be able to hold together? the knight wondered. Therassor, help me see this to the end! We must not fail! He steeled himself for the meeting they were about to have.
When they arrived at the temple room and the children had left, Pio walked Ormander to the door, “Thank you, father.” Looking back at his gathered brothers and sister, Pio continued to talk softly with Ormander, “Do not worry. Your children have come home and we will honor you.” Turning back to Ormander, Pio gave his father a confident smile and a clasp on the shoulder, “Have faith! We will see this through.”
[OOC: Tag DM]
When Ormander left the room, Pio returned to sit with the group. There was silence for the moment, as each person’s thoughts turned to contemplate the predicament they found themselves in… at least that’s what Pio was thinking about.
With no one opening their mouths to speak first, Pio took a cleansing breath and turned to the group, “So… are we all in? This is no easy task Ormander has set before us, and it could very well cost us a lot personally in the end. There are no real funds for this task, so it will be coming out of our personal resources. We’re dealing with folks who stand above the law, so there is a good chance that you risk losing whatever status you have obtained, your reputation in our country, your freedom in this world… your very lives, even.” Pio paused to let the words sink in.
“Are you all in?”
[OOC: Tag Everyone]
As each brother or sister stated they were committed to see the mission through to the end, Pio gave each an affirming nod. Should any of them decide that they can not continue on, Pio will escort them to the door, embrace them and bless them as they leave.
[OOC: No much in the way of moving the story forward I know… but I thought I’d put a quick post up to see who is still in this game… it’s been awhile since some of us posted. Are we all still here?]
[DOUBLE OOC: I'll post again over the weekend with some ideas for what Pio think's the group should do next... but peasedon't wait for me! If your character has some ideas, post them up and let's get this party started!]
Posted on 2008-01-11 at 16:31:09.
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Topic: New/Old DM's
Subject: Hmmm... sorry...
I thought it was "you vs them" when I wrote the above.
Some of my suggestions will still apply.
More specifically though, when you talk to them about what you'd like to see happen at your gaming sessions, share with them that you are finding the discussions/ arguments regarding rules are taking away for the gaming experience and slowing down the real reason you all came together -- which was to roleplay and have fun. Ask them to keep to discussions/ arguments regarding rules to a minimum at the table. If they'd like to continue their discussions after the gaming session, so be it.
Posted on 2008-01-10 at 07:34:07.
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Topic: New/Old DM's
Subject: The problem for 3.x DnD...
I find 3.X DnD easily lends itself to rule-layering and can easily decend into petty fights about "Well, is that really what the rules say? I think they mean this..."
Still, I think a real foundational agreement that the group needs to make is Rule 0 "The Dm makes the final call."... that, and that FUN is more important than getting every rule right. If you're a fair DM, and the group REALLY does care about FUN more than rules, then you're sitting pretty good as a group.
Maybe having a sit down chat with the group, reaffirming the group's commitment to fun, fair play and the giving of "authority" to the GM might be a place to start.
1) Reaffirm your relationship with your friends -- tell them that you've loved playing with them so far and want to continue with them.
2) Thank them for the trust that they've given you to moderate your current campaign. Tell them how excited you are to be preparing these adventures for them
3) Admit to them that you feel somewhat under-qualified to DM a 3.x game. Admit that they seem to know a lot (more) about the rules and that you sometimes feel intimidated by this.
4) Share with them honestly your frustrations about how your game sessions seem to be getting derailed by arguments/ discussions about the rules.
5) Share with them your vision of how you would like to see the gaming sessions run. Share with them your primary goal is to ensure that they have a great time roleplaying, interacting with the world you are creating for them.
6) Share with them that you understand that during game play there will be questions about how certain rules come into play. Tell them that if it won't take too long and you can find the specific rule easily in the books that you have on hand, you'd be happy to look it up and make a ruling. However, if the rule is not readily accessable during gameplay, tell them that you will make a ruling that you think will be fair for this gaming session, and will further look up the rule before the next gaming session. This, you hope, will help game play continue smoothly.
7) Ask them if they are willing to trust you to make judgements regarding the rules, with the understanding that if they were running the game, they might rule differently. If they agree, then ask them to affirm Rule 0 - "If I make a judgement call on a rule, I need to know that, even if you disagree with my ruling, you will accept it and together we can move forward."
 Invite them to give you suggestions about GMing and to offer to help you to find specific rules outside of the gaming session... preferably, after the gaming session.
9) Assure them, that when you make judgment calls regarding the rules, you're not looking to the best interests of your NPCs, your pet villians, or your ego. Affirm that when you make judgement calls, you are looking to the best interests of your gaming group as a whole and to what will make the gaming experience fun for all.
10) Tell them that you are excited to see how their characters will develop and grow and you help them explore this word you have created.
11) Affirm the relationship once more, sharing with them that you hope this group will be gaming together for many more sessions.
Whew... wow... that became a lot longer then I had planned! Anyway, hope this helps!
BTW... welcome to the Inn!
Ayrn
Posted on 2008-01-10 at 07:28:16.
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Topic: Filthy Thief Q/A
Subject: A couple of questions
1) Pio is looking for meeting space at the orphanage. I think this will be better than meeting in a tavern somewhere. Yes?
2) I didn't have Pio ask it in the post... I think because I believe Pio would know the answer to the question without asking... Here it is: Is Ormander putting us up in the orphanage for the next six (or so) days? Or do we need to find an inn? I think we would want to sleep at the orphanage... provide the place with some added protection over the next couple days. Also, I like the idea as a player... I think there will be all sorts of side RP opportunities if we are regularly interacting with the folks at the orphanage. Yes?
Posted on 2008-01-03 at 05:21:01.
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Topic: You Filthy Little Thief!!!
Subject: Easy Tiger!
Pio listened further as Percy asked Ormander if it was possible that one of their “brothers” or “sisters” had actually stolen it. Even as she spoken the words, Pio knew how they would sting their father. Still, the question did need to be asked…
Kastor’s oath to bring down his wrath on the perpetrators was heartening… though, perhaps a bit premature. There are some problems a sword cannot solve, Pio, he heard the words of Ormander from long ago. Some are solved with our hands, yes… but some are solved with our heads, and others with our hearts.
Ideas were beginning to form in Pio’s head about how to help. Six days will pass soon, he thought grimly.
Kastor interrupted the momentary silence with a thought that at first seemed ridiculous, “"The statue! Why don't we sell it for as much as we can get our hands on?"
Ormander reprimanded the khord, his voice gentle yet edgy, “Yes, Kastor. That would've been a great idea, if we HAD the statue. But as I explained, we were not responsible for the theft. We are being framed, set up, or perhaps unfortunately drawn into this. Pay attention, will you?"
But Kastor, apologetic, continued his ‘only-a-khord-could-think-of-that’ thought, “Sorry to alarm you, Ormander, but I did not mean that statue. I meant the silver crest at the front of the orphanage."
Pio could feel the tension boil in the room. Like an altar in the temple of Lysora was the silver crest to the orphanage. One could not put a value on such a thing, at least those who grew up in this place could not. The crest was sacred… but the khord’s thought did open up some other ideas for Pio…
…which were interrupted when Percy leapt to her feet and took aim at Kastor with a wand, and blasted khord with her words, “Shut up before I kill you, imbecile."
Still as feisty as ever.
Pio leapt to his feet and looked to step in between Percy and Kastor, shielding the khord, and holding his hands out to the woman. He spoke gently, yet firmly “Easy, Percy! We may not like Kastor’s idea, but he is our brother. Your brother.”
Speaking to the whole group, “There are many things that one can do that deserve death. But thinking is not one of them, even if it is out loud.”
He paused to let his words sink in.
“Kastor has put forth an idea… maybe not the best idea, but an idea none-the-less. And, if nothing else, the khord is at least thinking like the Councilor and speaking his language. Councilor Velch is only counting gold and cares nothing for what we hold dear. In six days, he will easily take the silver crest and so much more… and violence against one another will not solve this problem. If we do not think Kastor’s idea is a good one, let us come together as one, and think of some others.”
He paused again to be sure he still had everyone. “And I would suggest we do this somewhere else. I am sure, Father, you have business to attend to here. Perhaps, there is a meeting room we can use here to discuss our plans further?”
[OOC: Tag Almerin]
He turned to the rest of the group, “Are we agreed? Will “family” be the bond that can hold us together, even over our differences?”
[OOC: Tag Everyone]
Before the group left, Pio asked Ormander one last question, “Father, do you have the name of the representative of Councilor Velch? The one who came and saw you? And do you know where we might find him?”
[OOC: Tag Almerin]
=============================
[OOC: Sui and Stryker (and anyone else, I suppose) my apologies if you feel like I'm railroading this. It is not my intent. Please feel free to interrupt my post and insert comments along the way. I can always edit if something doesn't work out right. {i.e. Percy does not back down or Kastor decides to try and strike the woman.} Thanks for the roleplay opportunity, Sui! And, good idea, Stryker... maybe giving Velch something to hold as a deposit might buy us some more time!]
Posted on 2008-01-03 at 05:11:20.
Edited on 2008-01-03 at 05:12:18 by Ayrn
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Topic: Filthy Thief Q/A
Subject: Yep!
I am! I'll post today! Promise! I'm back from the in-laws and feeling good.
Tonight! (I'm watching the wee folk while my pregnant wife takes a little nappy-nap)
Posted on 2008-01-02 at 18:52:50.
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Topic: Filthy Thief Q/A
Subject: Update
I was hoping to post today, but have come down with some nasty cold/flu bug thats leaving my head spinninng.
Sorry
Posted on 2007-12-27 at 08:00:03.
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Topic: Filthy Thief Q/A
Subject: No problem
No problem about no splitting the group. Sooo okay with that!
Posted on 2007-12-26 at 20:49:38.
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Topic: Filthy Thief Q/A
Subject: Some questions/ comments
If possible I'd like Pio to speak with the councillor. Can Pio make a Knowledge [Local] check to see what the best way to get an audience with the councillor would be?
What was the name of the assistant of the councillor that spoke with Ormander?
Almerin, please be honest... how do you feel about the group splitting up? It means more work for you, of course.
Posted on 2007-12-26 at 18:57:48.
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Topic: Filthy Thief Q/A
Subject: Merry Christmas, y'all!
So, not a lot of response since Almerin and I posted. I'm guessing you're all stuffing yourself on Christmas dinners and busy with the new toys Santa brought you.
I hope to post late tonight... tomorrow at the latest. I don't have a lot more questions. A list of orphan that have recently left will be nice though.
Blessings all!
Ayrn
Posted on 2007-12-25 at 16:04:44.
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Topic: Filthy Thief Q/A
Subject: Is anyone else going to post?
Anybody else has anymore questions for Ormander?
Let get going folks!
EDIT: Sorry... that sounded more irrate than it was meant to. Really, I'm just looking to encourage us to get this ball rolling. I know it's the Christmas season, but maybe we could atleast put in a note here saying, "Hey, I'm too busy to post anything meaningful right now. I'm out until [insert date] but I don't have anymore questions." or "Here are my questions." or you could just post to the game.
Thanks!
Posted on 2007-12-22 at 15:31:30.
Edited on 2007-12-22 at 15:57:14 by Ayrn
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Topic: A Cold Day in Hell Q&A
Subject: Just trying to help, Sarge!
Looking to give you a better picture of our surroundings, sarge, so you can work that tactical magic of yours.
Not sure about this, but there are still a whack load of you "important" folks in that itty-bitty hallway that seems primed and ready for a grenade toss.
Posted on 2007-12-19 at 06:12:55.
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Topic: A Cold Day in Hell Q&A
Subject: One last question...
Are there windows in the interior doors to look through?
Posted on 2007-12-18 at 20:27:46.
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Topic: A Cold Day in Hell Q&A
Subject: Well... there are other ways to open a door.
Automatic handicap buttons, for instance!
Do the doors lock?
Is there anything to hold the doors open?
Are the doors "blast doors"? Could a well placed grenade blow them off their hinges? Could our bullets shoot through them?
Posted on 2007-12-18 at 16:58:54.
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Topic: You Filthy Little Thief!!!
Subject: Backposting and Questions!
[OOC: Backposting a bit…]
[OOC: In Ormander’s office before going on the tour…]
“The children all seem to be doing well,” Pio commented as he sipped his tea. Looking at his “father”, the old man seemed to come out of his troubling thought, glad for a diversion, if only for a moment.
"Yes, they are doing well,” Ormander replied. “Though I'm sure they would do better if they heard some of the adventures you guys have been through."
Ormander smiled a familiar smile, warm and sincere, which remaindered Pio of the many times he had sat in his father’s office before. Years turned back to the time Ormander had told Pio that the lad was destined for something better than this poverty.
"Do you guys remember Goddfrey Morman?” the elder man asked. “He finally left the orphanage last month, and has now taken over the bakery at ..."
And so began a time of recounting the many shared memories of those within the room. For Pio, they were memories of faith, hope, and love. Memories of his adopted father’s stern yet relentless love; of his father’s hope for a better future for those under his care; of his father’s faith in those the nation – the world – had discarded, cast aside as junk. But Ormander had seen beauty in the junk, and those surrounding him now were his testaments.
After a time, Ormander suggested they continue their conversation by way of a tour through the orphanage. Nobody would deny the old man showing his pride of the building he maintained.
“Well then,” the old man said as he stood. “Let’s go.”
Even though Pio had been by the orphanage numerous times since his “leaving”, there was always something new. Ormander was not one to leave things the same. One must never stop changing, Pio, he remembered his father saying once. Life is change. When one stops changing, death is nearby.
As they came to the garden, Pio noted with a smile, “You have added a heifer since I was last here. Is little Marco still in charge of caring for the farm?”
“Did you not hear, my son?” Ormander’s faced darkened. “Marco died four moons ago now. A mugging on the way to the market.”
“I had not heard,” Pio said softly. Death was still near here.
A lad nearing adulthood walked past carrying water, nodding to Ormander as he went by. The old man returned the nod, smiled warmly, saying, “Guido, here, is the master caretaker of the beasts. Has a way with animals that will serve him well into the future.”
[OOC: Meeting up with Alexandro…]
When they were being lead through the labyrinth of corridors and chambers inside the building, Pio could hear a knocking. Ormander hastened his pace and rounded a corner, coming back to his office. Outside the office stood a man in breastplate armor, road hardened and firmly built.
“Alexandro?” Ormander called out. “Good to see you’ve arrived as well. I was just showing your brothers and sister around the house.”
Alexandro?! Pio had heard the warrior had taken up service with Bassanino to the north.
“Alexandro!” Percifeer shouted, raising her hand in welcome and, though it must have been years since they had last spoken, her childhood friend instinctively returned it with a resounding clap.
Pio followed close behind Percy to greet his “brother”.
Alexandro spoke first, “Pio, how was the road?”
“Good, my friend,” replied the knight, returning the firm handshake and clapping Alexandro on the shoulder. “It is good to see you.”
Alexandro continued his greeting to the rest of those gathered.
[OOC: Back up to speed, in Ormander’s office, hear the old man’s tale…]
After a while of conversing amongst each other in Ormander’s office, the old man set down his cup of tea and stood up slowly, the effort putting his face in suppressed pain.
“Alright,” he began. “I think it is time I tell you all why I have called for you, Children. I was expecting more of you, but you seem to be the only ones that came.”
The old man straightened his back and grunted.
“I am getting old, too old to deal with all the problems of this orphanage. I’ve raised it from a low dust-hole to a good environment for children. I have had to fight for some of the privileges that we now perceive. Nowadays I only seem to be able to do battle with words.”
Ormander paused for a moment, looking at the kettle with boiling water, before he continued.
“But something has come up in which I stand powerless. The orphanage has been accused of stealing from the Drefast Courthouse. An emerald statue, from the vault of Councillor Eordan Velch is missing. A thief was pursued, and lost a leather band with a silver coin. On that coin was the symbol of our Orphanage: the outstretched hand of Falloes revealing the Ram of Drannon.”
Looking at those he had gathered, Ormander pressed on, “Normally we are left alone, but it is unwise to steal from one close to the Golden Throne. Nobody in this orphanage has committed this act. We have done in days past what was necessary to survive, but theft is something I do not promote any longer.”
The old man’s face was turning reddish in a mix of anger and dismay.
“This was a set-up, and I have called you to find out who was responsible for this. Please do this in my stead, for I have not the strength to right this myself.”
Pio looked around to room to judge the reaction of those present. The knight already knew where he stood, but was curious to see how the others would repay their debts to their adopted father.
Alexandro was the first to speak, “Ormander, I think you know that you can count on our help. But we need to know, are you certain that no one from the orphanage could have taken it? Has anyone left or gone missing since the theft?”
Pio waited for Ormander’s before asking his own questions.
[OOC: Insert Ormander’s response…]
Pio then asked, “Who has accused you, father? Councillor Velch himself? Has he threatened you? Have those in authority”
[OOC: Insert Ormander’s response…]
Pio continued with his questions, “How much time do you think we have, Father, before they look to seek justice against the orphanage?”
Posted on 2007-12-18 at 06:53:44.
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Topic: Filthy Thief Q/A
Subject: Question...
Is the bracelet that was found at the scene of the crime a common thing amongst those of the orphanage? Do all the children wear one? Are they required to wear one? Did our characters wear similar bracelets back in the day? (perhaps, still have them?!)
Also, what is the name of the official organization that would be "investigating" this crime? (i.e. what is the name for "police" in Drefast?)
I hope to post tomorrow afternoon.
Posted on 2007-12-17 at 05:38:11.
Edited on 2007-12-17 at 05:56:02 by Ayrn
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Topic: A Cold Day in Hell
Subject: The watchman
From his crouched position, Pearson could overhear Lee’s conversation with Kane.
Lee: “…I don’t like this position. We are too exposed here in this narrow hallway. May I suggest we pull back from this doorway down the hall. It might give those guys in there time to think things through more clearly. It will also give us more room incase these guys happen to have any grenades on them and think to chuck them through that door.”
Kane: “Good call, Sergeant. You’re right; We are in a bad spot tactically.” He paused for a moment. “Okay… take Pearson and Hatherford with you and cover the North and South doors leading to this hallway. First sign of trouble…”
Sergeant Lee turned to Pearson and Hatherford. “Come on,” he said, his voice only a whisper. Pearson followed as ordered.
As they backed into the next area again, Sergeant Lee gave out his orders, “Pearson, take the north door. Hatherford, the south door… and if anything attacks, take cover but do not return fire unless I give the ‘ok’.”
Pearson gave the smaller sergeant a quick nod, “Roger that, Sarge!”
The private quickly made his way to cover the north door. He’ll scan the room for any items of interest.
OOC:
1) Is there anything of interest in this room? i.e. Fire extinguishers, lighting, tables, chairs, bookcases, etc.
2) How does the door open to the next area? (the area between 15 and 19) Is it currently open?
3) How does the door open between the next area and area 19? (Pearson should know the answer to this question seeing as he went through the door earlier) Is it currently open?
Posted on 2007-12-17 at 05:27:04.
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Topic: Filthy Thief Q/A
Subject: Just POST!
Seriously though... can't you just put a little post up that says, "Hey Ormander! I got your word, and came right away!"
???
Then we can soldier on with you as NPC
Posted on 2007-12-11 at 13:58:32.
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Topic: A Cold Day in Hell Q&A
Subject: The metagamer in me agrees
Alt reality seems to me. Though, really, maybe it is as simple as them being stoned.
What do you think about asking them for "today's date"?
Posted on 2007-12-10 at 07:22:40.
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Topic: A Cold Day in Hell
Subject: Not much to say here....
As shots rang out around the observatory, Pearson was quick to get his head down. It was tricky for a big man like him to find adequete cover.
US Personel... firing on us?!? The mission was not getting any better in the private's mind. He was about to ask Lieutenant Kernan if he wanted Denes to take out the threats, but Kernan spoke first and ordered the team to hold fire.
Pearson remained coiled and alert, like a tiger ready to pounce. He remained silent, waited for the lieutenant to talk the men down.
Posted on 2007-12-10 at 07:19:26.
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Topic: Filthy Thief Q/A
Subject: Regarding Pio's magical items
In his background,it simple states that Pio "acquired" them on an expedition into Thrinacia. It is my belief, and Pio's, that they were given to him from the Honoured Battle Maiden Spirit of Thrinacia because she knew Pio to have a "good heart".
Posted on 2007-12-09 at 05:57:34.
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Topic: Filthy Thief Q/A
Subject: Repeat after me everyone...
HEALING BELTS
You all need HEALING BELTS.
Seriously!
For 750 gp you get 2d8 healing 3x/day. Honestly!
Plus you can use it as a touch attack against undead! WTH!
All y'all need to be picking up some of this sweetness.
Posted on 2007-12-09 at 05:04:27.
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Topic: You Filthy Little Thief!!!
Subject: Touche!
As Pio gently lifted Percy’s hand to his lips, the lovely lady spoke, mischief on her face that once again reminded him of days past, “"I do not do husbands. They tie a girl down and leave her little freedom to come and go as she pleases." She waited until he had released her hand to continue, her smile widening as she spoke, "I left the man I love locked in a tower where I could keep him under my thumb and go where I want, when I want."
Pio returned the smile, “I see your tongue is not quite as sweet as your skin.” He gave her a grin. “Still, you speak truth, yes? I am reminded of the proverb that such loveliness as you have attained is too great a treasure for any one man to possess. It should surely be shared among many.” He gave her a wink, and kissed her hand once more. “For that… I thank the gods.”
Pio turned his attention to Ormander. “I came as soon as I received word, father. Your health is well, I trust.”
“My health is fine, Pio. I’m getting old, but I could still best many other warriors of my age.”
The old man laughed, and Pio with him. Accepting the tea, the knight sat but continued the easy conversation. “Best be careful… young Benito seems to think he could best many a knight.”
He paused briefly before commenting, “The children all seem to be doing well.”
Posted on 2007-12-08 at 19:59:13.
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Topic: Filthy Thief Q/A
Subject: LOL... power-gaming... LOL
Man, if I were power-gaming, I would have gone with Crsauder 4 all the way, picked up a glaive, some spiked armor, and taking Combat Reflexes, Stand Still, and Stone Power to create an crazy, attack of opportunity doom machine.
Instead, I'm just trying to fill in the gaps I perceive in our party (battlefield control, buffer, healing) as best I can, so you all can SHINE!
The beauty of Pio is that he has so many abilities that make the rest of you SHINE well (at least, I hope that will be the case). He like a bard... only better!
On another note, will it be okay if Pio calls your character "Percy"?
Posted on 2007-12-08 at 19:30:26.
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Topic: Filthy Thief Q/A
Subject: Haha! I am not the last to post his character!
Are you actually going to play, good Gruggster! Promises, promises... so many broken promises.
When shall we see your shifty rogue?
Posted on 2007-12-08 at 17:41:43.
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