Good Morning (DM MikeK) Tuesday October 18th, 2005 8:37:17 PM
Mac casts his vote, and an audible sigh rises up from the land. A beam of light stabs down, encompassing the Avatar.
Elf and spider rise into the hazy air, higher and higher until they disappear altogether. As one, the heroes of the plains drop their gaze to the Grass surrounding them. As their gaze falls, so does the fuzziness, the unrealness of the light around them.
A voice echoes within their minds. "One last surprise, children. Mysteries to unravel and a return to your beginnings." Like the light, the voice fades.
The Bloodpack is not where they were.
Oh, they're still in the Plains. A tall field of golden Grass rises on all sides, blocking any sight beyond the bronze wall. But moments before, that wall was over 300' away. Now it is merely 30'. And the vast plain of Mini Grass is now nothing but a 90' diameter circle of collapsed Grass. The sun is in a different place in the sky.
Most importantly to the moment, there is no boat anywhere to be seen.
At the edge of the grass are three creatures - a small kitten, a good sized wolf, and a rather large Grass Viper. Giving each other a lot of room, the three animals cross towards the party, heading for Mac, Gilan, and Anuk respectively. The three adventurers will, of course, recognize their animal companions.
The mini reunion dispels for only a few moments the reality that the Bloodpack is somewhere in the middle of the Sargass Plains.
Tishe' Tuesday October 18th, 2005 11:40:15 PM
"Shady..."
The spellweaver puts a stray lock of brown hair behind her ear after the Avatar is gone. "What was the final vote anyways?", she wonders. Lost in her thoughts, Tishe' wasn't paying attention to what could have profound repercussions for the Sargrass and her packmates.
And speaking of Sargrass... "And where are we? Is this where the Bloodpack had its first adventure outside of Rattledam?" It is a good guess, using the voices clues, but the young woman was still in Hook City at that time and doesn't know.
She moves over to stand near Ulgren and Mac while waiting for the ones who grew up in Rattledam to determine where they are.
Flea d20+9=25 Wednesday October 19th, 2005 12:15:57 AM
Flea stops giggling, and looks around. (Spot=25) "What now?" she asks, moving in a little closer to Tishe', Mac, and the drow.
Gilan d20+14=15 Wednesday October 19th, 2005 8:38:42 PM
Gilan opens his eyes to find the avatar gone and them standing in a different area of the Plains. As Ciaran comes loping over he bends at the knees to ruff the wolve's furry head. "Good to see you hear as well Ciaran." He looks around the surrounding area and the placement of the sun as he tries to reason out where they are at. "Well I guess we may have to get above this to get a better look around...from down here I can make out nothing of note." He shakes his head at his own stupidity.
He looks to the rest and nods his head. "I doubt we are to return to Rattledam too soon it seems." He absently continues to scratch Ciaran's ears.
[survival(plains) 15]
Tishe' Wednesday October 19th, 2005 11:16:11 PM
The young woman puts a friendly hand on Flea's shoulder. "I'm sure Anuk will be able to know where we are." The brown haired mage is brimming with confidence.
Jake (2/59) Thursday October 20th, 2005 12:39:10 AM
(For some reason, the wold site wouldn't load right for me earlier today. My apologies for not trying repeatedly to post.) Jake sticks his sword in the ground and leans slightly on it, looking about. "Golden grass... Uh.. Not that it's worth it, but I'm guessing this ain't Kansas, Todo..." He blinks, "ah mean, this ain't near Rattledam, Trell. Uh, can ya heal me please?"
Mac (HP:40/75) Thursday October 20th, 2005 2:56:15 AM
"I'm not sure..." Mac murmurs absent-mindedly as he picks up Galea. Spotting his gear at the new edge of the depression, he heads over to it and packs it into a manageable bundle or three.
[glad the server is cooperating again]
Anuk d20+10=28 d20+9=20 d20+11=22 d20+11=31 d20+13=15 Thursday October 20th, 2005 12:04:18 PM
"Twinge?!" Anuk grins happily as the viper slithers over to him. "C'mere you little coward...I thought you were lost for good!"
After a moment's reflection he says, "Speaking of lost...lets see if we can figure out where exactly we are."
(spot 24, listen 33, survival 17 if it has anything to do with rapke or bounders (favored enemy))
Ulgren : AC 19 Hps 33 Mage Armour(extended) d20+8=26 Thursday October 20th, 2005 3:00:02 PM
Ulgren I am..was a sailor once maybe I can figure out where we are." Ulgren looks around and picks up a pen sized stick and looks up at the top of the grass and writes down its height. Ulgren then turns the direction of the sun and scribbles down another number. the drow then raises each hand up one at a time and scribbles 2 more numbers down in quick succession. Ulgen looks at Tishe, "Rattledam is over there." (Grass Sailing 26)
Trellus d20+7=13 d20+8=27 4d8(4+1+6+6)+7=24 d8=2 Thursday October 20th, 2005 8:12:18 PM
"Well, this bites grass," Trellus comments as he looks around. The blond man tries to get his bearings.
When Jake says something, Trellus can't help but break out in a grin. "Dude, you look like something Gry cooked for dinner."
The cleric hits him with his healing wand. [CCW - 25 hp healed]
Hmmmmm (DM MikeK) Thursday October 20th, 2005 8:27:54 PM
After looking around a bit, Anuk and Trellus are absolutely convinced they aren't anywhere near Rattledam.
Ulgren doesn't think they are on a standard trading route.
Gilan, Anuk, and Trellus note a fine layer of volcanic dust covers the ground and the Grass. This layer is thinner than what they clomped through when they climbed on the boat at Rattledam. So, they figure they are farther east. Moving around does kick up the dust, where it hangs in the air. Breathing in the dust is nearly unavoidable.
Ulgren's sun compass points out north and south. Based on the sun's position, Anuk believes they are further south of Rattledam.
The question of "How far east and south?" is, thus far, unanswerable.
A pile of gear lays in the grass next to where the animal companions were located. Upon inspection, it contains all personal equipment left upon the ship.
Over the course of the next hour, the group determines its mid-morning and its going to be getting pretty hot. Most of the party still carry the empty, split-open waterskins that suffered at the hands of the cold of the Ice Vein. [Except for Tishe, no one has any intact water unless the container was stored in a Bag of Holding or someting similiar. Please post what water you have.
Ulgren : AC 19 Hps 33 Mage Armour(extended) Thursday October 20th, 2005 9:14:02 PM
Ulgren watches the sun rise and reaches for a waterskin in his backpack, pulling out a cracked and split hunk of leather the drow lets loose a quiet curse, "umm I have a slight problem," Ulgren says a slight blush on his blue face, "I have no water, and no skins for any until tomorrow, IF, I can get a mending spell to work." Ulgren looks around at the others. "Head towards Rattledam?"
Tishe' (13/45) d20+16=25 d20+5=20 d20+12=22 Thursday October 20th, 2005 11:40:48 PM
The brown haired girl is very interested in Ulgren's work, and follows it with avid interest. (Sailing: 25) "I have also been a navigator on the 'grass and water, Ulgren. It seems we like the same picks." She smiles at the dark elf, anticipating many conversations.
Tishe' limps over to the pile of equipment and inspects her stuff. "I only have one large skin of water that holds about a gallon. And I've a mending spell right on me right now, so I could weave it on, Mac's probably because he is larger than the rest of us and so his water skins should be larger as well." And a few passes with her hands, she Mends Mac's waterskin.
"I've also got a Create Water spell to fill it, and one Endure Elements spell if it gets too hot."
Looking through her stuff she discovers a couple of large sacks. "While not water tight, maybe someone who is better at using the resources of the land can make these into improvised waterbags." She looks around for materials to use(Survival: 15), and if finding any will attempt to weave a watertight container(Weaveing: 22).
Knowing thier injuries and a plan will both take time to form, she hopes she can pick a water holder for the Pack.
Mac Friday October 21st, 2005 1:27:33 PM
"Thanks Tishe', but I think the two skins just look bigger after what the cold did to them."
"Do our bearings people want some extra height? Will a two- or three man tower be enough, or would some flying be in order?"
Jake Friday October 21st, 2005 2:56:17 PM
"Ah would be careful about using one of them water spells in the plains, Tishe," Jake unexpectedly tells the magic-user. "Teachers always tellin' us, ya do that sorta thing, ya get blood bugs or angry grass...whatever that means. Ah ain't never seen no angry grass." Jake feels a bit better, but still looks burnt. He goes over his waterskin and discovers it is quite charred and useless. Then, with a cry of sorrow, he discovers that so is that wineskin he'd gotten from that icepack. "Dang...that was the best memento ah'd gotten," he sorrowfully declaims, looking at the blackened remains.
Gilan d20+14=21 Friday October 21st, 2005 3:19:17 PM
Gilan moves over and opens the flap on his pack and pulls out four waterskins that are bulging full. "I have some water over here and can mend some of those broken skins as well." He looks around to the rest and smiles. "Do not forget that I have a wand for the heat as well." As he moves around the area he uses his skills to try and find anything of use about...food or maybe even water.
With another thought as he moves around he comments to all the pack. "I can also find out exact directions tomorrow with a spell." With a half smile he drops his hand to Ciaran's head. "Do we move along in one direction or another or do we find a good place to camp?"
[survival(plains) 21]
Flea Friday October 21st, 2005 7:54:14 PM
Flea tosses the useless skin aside. "No water here," she answers to the rest.
While the others discuss what to do next, Flea sits on the ground tailor style and starts to pick out the rough stitches holding the fur lining to her battered Cloak of Comfort. She uses one of the wonderful daggers she won a long time ago at the Mithril Chef competition in the Giggling Ghost. When she is finished she runs her hands up and down the garment* hoping to clean off the residual ant goo, blood stains, and charred bits.
Jake's reference to the skin of ice wine and the group left behind cause the rogue to grow wistful.
*Prestididigitation
Trellus 4d8(7+1+7+5)+8=28 d8=4 4d8(4+8+2+8)+8=30 3d8(8+7+7)+8=30 3d8(8+6+5)+8=27 3d8(1+1+5)+7=14 d8=6 d8=5 Sunday October 23rd, 2005 6:31:34 PM
"I think Gry's still lugging around that barrel of water, right Gry?" Trellus points out. "If it ain't full, we can weave our Water picks in there."
Trellus rubs the back of his head. "Gilan, why don't you do that bird pick and take a look up there - see if anything looks familiar. Otherwise, well we got enough water and food for a day. I say just sit tight until tomorrow and then weave some picks to see what's what. What do you dudes think?"
While all that's going on, the cleric will save some wear on his wand and cast some cure spells the old fashioned way.
Tishe - 31 hp healed (CCW over Summon Mon IV) Jake - 30 hp healed (CCW over Spell Immunity) Mac - 30 hp healed (CSW over Searing Light) Gry - 27 hp healed (CSW over Remove Disease) Gry - 21 hp healed (CSW wand)
Anybody got a drink? (DM MikeK) Sunday October 23rd, 2005 8:51:26 PM
The Bloodpackers take stock of their situation, and in the Sargass that means checking on water.
Tishe has a gallon. She magically mends one of Mac's waterskins, but the taur's water supply remains empty for the moment. Gilan shows four waterskins. Trellus, Flea, Ulgren, and Jake have nothing. Anuk and Grymash remain silent.
Gilan spends about an hour foraging and exploring the general vicinity. He finds more of the same. The area is nothing more than a section of Grass, just like one of a million other sections here in the Plains. He finds no water, but comes back with enough insects to sustain a couple people for the day.
[Note that this type of meal is likely rather new to Tishe, Mac, and Ulgren (traders bring their own rations), but Flea has gone through this sort of provisioning before, and the rest have done so for most of their lives.]
Various discussions are held on what to do next, but no firm decisions are reached.
Each footfall kicks up more of the fine volcanic dust, burning lungs unaccustomed to grainy substance.
[All (including critters) - Fort save DC15 or -1 CON]
Ulgren : AC 19 Hps 33 Mage Armour(extended) d20+5=15 Sunday October 23rd, 2005 9:07:52 PM
Ulgren sighs at the lack of water and remembers the long hot days on the trader ships. "I wish I had a spell to help out but I am without anything that might help us in the lack of water department." Ulgren watches Gilan from a distance scrounge food for the pack and shudders when it is offered to him. The drow pinches his nose and quickly gulps down the first bite trying not to taste much of it. <Fort 15>
Flea d20+3=15 Sunday October 23rd, 2005 10:15:43 PM
Flea takes her pointed gnome hat from off her head, and packs it away in a side pocket of her HHHaversack. Humming in a tuneless sort of way she unwraps the crimson sash from 'round her waist. The gnome gives it a good shake to loosen the folds, and then she wraps the sash about her head twisting it into a turban with one longish loose bit hanging down. Flea wraps this last bit of fabric across the lower part of her face so that it covers her nose and mouth and keeps the dust out, finally tucking the end into a fold on the opposite side. (Fort Check=15, made it!)
The rogue then shakes out her Cloak of Comfort and settles it about her small person.
"Let's try to find Rattledam, and find out how things are back home," Flea suggests. "We should check in with Malafret and let her know what has happened," Flea waves vaguely in a northerly direction, unsure if she is right, before adding, "out there." "'Sides," adds the rogue, "she might have something she wants us to do."
Mac (HP:70/75) d20+9=20 d20=18 Monday October 24th, 2005 3:41:10 AM
Mac doesn't mind the bugs [Fort:20], nibbling a bit here and there, but is mostly interested in making sure there is enough to go around the pack and Galea (who is more disappointed that she can't chase the bugs, but eats anyway - [Fort:18, unmodified]). Hopefully it will make enough of a difference if he eats lightly for a day or few.
He sits unmoving for good lengths of time after putting Galea in her carrier with covers.
"In the morning...?"
OOC DM Clarification note for all - its the dust, not the bugs, that is generating the Fort save.
Gilan d20+10=26 d20+11=21 d20+10=16 d20+10=12 d20+14=33 Monday October 24th, 2005 5:36:05 PM
Gilan nods to Trellus and then lays his pack ont he ground. He scrounges in it for another few minutes and another two skins that he had forgot about appear. "Hey here is another waterskin." He holds it out smiling and then tosses the other skin to Jake. "Don't drink it all in one setting...that elven wine will have to do you for awhile." He also pulls out a scroll case and opens it before he leaves. "Trell...here is some treasure from before we left for the icy place." He hands over a wand, ceramic vile, wooden scroll case, 4 pearls and 90 platinum. He then pushes the scroll case into his hands as well. "The last of my identify spells...have Tishe' use what she needs." His smile takes in the group as he moves off to the side most of his gear left in thier custody.
He does stop off by Tishe' and lays a hand upon her shoulder. "How goes the training...study those other two scrolls in there if you want...special nature spells that if you study you can pray to Mother Wold for tomorrow." He then changes into the form of an eagle and takes to wing. Scouting is called for and he is willing to oblidge the group.
[Fort(Gilan) 26 and Fort(Ciaran) 21]
[Listen 16, Spot 12 and Survival(plains) 33]
Treasure given to Trellus: wand, ceramic vial, wooden scroll case, 4 pearls, 90pp.
Scrolls given to Trellus: 4 identify.
Scrolls for Tishe': euphoria and hornet's nest.
Jake d20=13 Monday October 24th, 2005 6:54:04 PM
"Thanks, Gil," drawls the lanky fighter, as he catches the skin one handed. Screwing the top off he gives the contents a sniff, before taking a swig. The elf's adam's apple bobs as he swallows. Jake wipes the back of his hand across his lips and eyes the dead critters brought in by the druid. If offerred his choice, he selects a particularly large insect with transparent wings. Lifting it up he eyeballs it before biting down. "Mmmmphhft, *sigh* there's no place like home."
Fort Save=13 - no modifiers*
*(OOC: I'm playing Jake in Mikey's absence Oct. 24-28, but I don't have his character sheet. I'm assuming he would have made the Fort save.-Carla)
Anuk d20+7=25 d20+3=10 Monday October 24th, 2005 10:22:02 PM
Anuk adjusts his breathing a bit to avoid problems with the ash (fort 25), but Twinge is not so lucky what with crawling around down in the dust (fort 10, con -1). The green viper becomes a little sluggish, and slithers its way up to Anuk's shoulders. "Problem there, Twinge?" Anuk asks as the snake disappears into the folds of his pack. Anuk reaches into the pack, gives Twinge a friendly pat on the head, and then fishes out the remains of his waterskin.
"No water here," he says as he munches on one of the 'treats' Gilan brought back. "Might get it mended if we find our way back to Rattledam, though."
Tishe' (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON) d20+8=9 d20+2=3 Monday October 24th, 2005 11:12:37 PM
The brown haired girl looks dubiously at the insects found. "Uh, no thanks," she says with barest control on her face, "I had bugs for lunch." She thinks about her parents, one a Sargrass orphan and one a castaway trader, and how they must have lived on exactly this. Yet the rations are still available, and she doesn't have to make the plunge.
The volcanic dust is tough on Tishe' and her familiar Wart both (two nat 1s!), and she coughs pitifully while walking as the desert horned toad shivers in misery in her satchel.
But she is aware enough on the approach of Gilan, and her eyes sparkle with... gratitude at his words and gifts.
"I have been learning well, and there is so much to learn!" To prove her words, Tishe' moves to the edge of the 'grass and then walks through the stalks with hardly a ripple, emerging from another area and not leaving any damage because of her passage (Trackless Step). She takes the two spell scrolls with another little bow of thanks "You give me such nice presents, sweetie."
And she uses two Identify scrolls on the wand and ceramic vial, then a Read Magic spell while opening the wooden scroll case.
"Don't forget our other treasure from the ant-taurs" she reminds the Bloodpack, "the gem with another soul inside."
Grymash d20+12=23 d20+9=14 Tuesday October 25th, 2005 2:21:03 AM
(Fort save 23)
"Gry gots kegs of water rights here. He pulls them out of his magical haversack to give to all to drink and refill with magical summonings of water. Grymash also uses his own Create Water spells to the collection. "It be lookin' likes it goin' ta be uh nice day home in da Sargrass!" Grymash tries to be glad to be home, even if its delusional.
(survival 14)
Mac - illegal 2nd post Tuesday October 25th, 2005 3:59:25 AM
Mac raises one eyebrow at Gry and smiles - the old keg full of water in the magical backpack trick!
"Gry - guy wi' a plan!"
Trellus d20+8=28 Tuesday October 25th, 2005 9:03:42 PM
Trellus barely notices the dust. [Fort nat 20]
And happily hands over scrolls and stuff to Tishe for identification. He points to Flea.
"Flea's got a shady pick, dudes. Something covering our mouths might help out with the air."
Discoveries (DM MikeK) Tuesday October 25th, 2005 9:14:47 PM
Grymash rolls out the barrel, and there is plenty of water containment for all. Those casting Create Water spells note the spell only produces half the expected quantity. The older members of the pack will remember that is typical for the Sargass.
Tishe sets to work identifying the items captured way back on a tropical island. She finds the items are:
Wand of Eagle's Splendor (27 charges) Potion of Blur Bamboo scrollcase containing an Arcane scroll: Chill Touch, Tenser's Floating Disc
Gilan changes forms into an eagle and glides effortlessly into the air, the first eagle seen on the Plains in who knows how long. What the druid mostly sees is Grass of every size and color, mile upon mile upon mile of it. Ever higher he soars, looking for anything that might be different.
Finally, he notices a rock. To the east of the party, perhaps a day's march in the tall grass, is a large outcropping of black rock. It is 300' deep and half a mile wide, forming a shallow U shape. At the deepest point of the U is a sandy bowl. No Grass grows within that bowl. Gilan has never seen this formation before, but the rock and the sand bowl spark memeories. Memories of another rock, and another bowl, where the Bloodpack first earned its moniker.
Tishe' (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON) Tuesday October 25th, 2005 11:33:15 PM
Coughing at the dust, the plain-faced woman nods at Trellus' suggestion and copies Flea's preparations. She viels herself in the red sash Grymash gave them before starting on thier last quest, hoping that it will reduce some of the dust she breathes.
"Ulgren", she coughs and turns toward the black elf, "Necromancy and Illusions are bright picks for me, if you can weave those schools, why don't you take the scroll. And do you want the wand as well?"
"I can't use a blur potion either, but Grymash or Mac could put it into great effect to make it harder to hit them in a fight."
A weakened Tishe' and Wart will suffer a walk to wherever the 'pack wants to go.
Jake Wednesday October 26th, 2005 12:45:19 AM
Jake brings a fist up to his mouth and coughs a few times in sympathy to Tishe's predicament. Feeling generally kind of uncomfortable with what he percieves as her weakness and general lack of fitness for the harsh environment, he saunters over to stand by Gry.
Besides, all that talk of potions and scrolls and other foreign magic stuff just makes the fighter uncomfortable. "Tisn't right, Grymmy," he says pulling down on the brim of his large leather hat so that it casts shadow on his face, "Just tisn't right."
(OOC: Thanks MikeK. Got the char sheet.-Carla)
Flea d20+9=25 Wednesday October 26th, 2005 12:48:09 AM
Flea brings a hand up to where her makeshift turban meets her brow. She uses the flat of her hand to shade her eyes and watches as Gilan does his thing. Lowering her gaze, she looks out over the plains, turning a full 360 to see what she can see. (Spot=25)
"Eagle's Splendor" she mutters, "sounds shady to me."
Mac Wednesday October 26th, 2005 9:01:02 AM
The taur readies to move - securing the carrier to the backpack, etc.
Anuk (twinge -1 con) d20+13=32 d20+10=18 Wednesday October 26th, 2005 3:31:39 PM
Ah, home. "It does feel good to be in the heat again," says Anuk, wiping a bit of perspiration from his brow. "Although, a quick dip in the fountain at Rattledam sounds nice about now. It'll be nice to get back." He recalls the state of the town last time he saw it. "Assuming the town's still standing," he says under his breath.
He takes a couple of slurps from the water proffered by Gry, then takes a few drops in his palm and offers them to Twinge. The snake's green head pops out of the knapsack and a forked tongue takes in the water.
While the pack makes plans, Anuk looks for gourds, grasses, or tubers suitable for making a temporary waterskin until he can get a new one in Rattledam.
Survival 32, Knowledge (plains) 18
Ulgren : Hps 33/33 AC 19 Mage Armour(extended) Wednesday October 26th, 2005 5:51:24 PM
Ulgren smiles at Tishe, "Thanks I can use the scroll, as for the wand a sorcerer or rogue might be better suited to its spell. I rely only on my intelligence and my friends of course." The drow gives Tishe a smile as he takes the offered scroll case and scroll. "If the dust bothers you I can cast the floating disk now and you and your familiar can ride upon it." Ulgren reaches into a side pocket and carefully cuts a strip of canvas wide enough to wrap around his mouth and nose and long enough tie around his head. "Anyone else?" Ulgren asks cheerfully as he dips his sips from Grymashs barrel and dips his canvas in the water to help trap the dust away. The drow settles everything back into its place and makes sure his goggles are secure on his face then the dark elf stands and looks for Gilan." Which way now?"
Tishe' (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON) d20=3 Wednesday October 26th, 2005 11:29:36 PM
Maybe it is due to her coughing, or her generally thick nature when it comes to others, but Tishe' has no idea Jake was coughing only for her benefit. "You too, Jake? You should wrap your sash around your head like Flea and I did."
"What a sweetie, Ulgren!", and the average face dimples in a smile. "But I am quite (cough) strong enough to be a walker for a while. I'll hold onto the wand then, but I expect to weave most of it on our shady talkers."
Jake Wednesday October 26th, 2005 11:38:17 PM
"Right. Yeah. Sure, Tishe'" answers Jake. The wiry half-elf raises his hat, and runs his hand through his dark hair, pushing it back behind his ears where it hangs a little longish and kind of greasy from his hat. He presses the hat back down on his head.
Then giving the cleric a mock punch on the shoulder, he drawls, "how 'bout we weave for home, Trel? Ah'm sort 'a curious 'bout Rattledam 'an all. Wundrin', ya see, if the other packs are shady, ya know?"
Flea d20-1=0 Thursday October 27th, 2005 12:01:48 AM
Satisfied that her gear has been safely stowed, and her outfit is secure and likely to be effective at keeping her from the worst of the elements. Flea seeks out the companionship of the Bloodpack's only other female.
Flea's voice is quiet, and further muffled by the cloth across her mouth. "Um, Tishe'," she starts, "I've been thinking that since our group has been having such shady adventures and stuff that someone should be documenting them. You know, like with poems and stories." Flea looks up at the spell-weaver and tries to gauge her response. (Sense Motive=0) Unsure of the plain woman's true feelings on the issue, Flea blunders on, "I know the monks don't really like story-tellers from away," Flea's eyes slide over to those of her pack who are native to the town, and she lowers her voice to a whisper, "that bards might even be forbidden and sometimes sent off." The gnome gulps, and her blue eyes look into Tishe's, "I just don't want to forget, you know?"
Tishe' (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON) d20=19 Thursday October 27th, 2005 11:04:50 PM
Brown eyes sparkle with interest as the short woman talks with the female halfling. Though weakened from all the coughing and dust, she is immediately interested in Flea's thoughts. (Sense Motive 19)
"A bard and storyteller? Flea that is midnight shady! My father is a bard and became warp and weft with my mother in Rattledam. You are right in that they left after a time to begin a life in Hook City, but that was their own decision, I think. One of my life's dreams is to find out why they left and how they met in magical Rattledam."
Even the horned toad that hangs out in Tishe's satchel comes out to listen to the conversation with unblinking eyes as the brown-haired woman continues. "You are also right that people who are different are watched with suspicion; I've seen it. But maybe since we're in the Circle, it would be some protection from exile? The land, my life. Yet before I gave that oath, I gave my heart to the ones who unhesitatingly accepted me as I am. I am Bloodpack, and packmates stick together."
Flea Friday October 28th, 2005 12:29:55 AM
Pale blue eyes smile up at the spell-weaver and a muffled voice echos "packmates stick together" as Flea's eyes look away and scan the horizon. In an unpracticed voice, the gnome begins to sing,
When the cold of winter comes, starless night will cover day. In the veiling of the sun we will walk in bitter rain.
But in dreams, I can hear your name. And in dreams we will meet again.
When the seas and mountains fall and we come to end of days, In the dark I hear a call, calling me there.
I will go there and back again.
Grymash Friday October 28th, 2005 7:01:20 PM "Pretty song, but theres be no blood or fightin' in it. Though it still be pretty Flea song."
Gilan Friday October 28th, 2005 10:33:36 PM
Gilan lands upon the ground near the others, changing shapes as he does. As he stretches he indicates the large black rocks that he saw in the distance and shakes his head. "I am not sure but it might be the same rocks from before...no other signs but I could give true directions tomorrow." He waits to see if they will move out, but slips another red sash from his pack, faded red in color. "If anyone needs it."
Sorry dealing with new computer and my grandmother's move. Between cleaning and house work I have been very busy lately, but it appears that my load is going to lighten up. I was suppose to make the DM posts for the past two days but not sure if I was suppose to do one today.
Tishe' (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON) Saturday October 29th, 2005 2:56:23 PM
With everyone using and wearing thier red sashes, Tishe' suddenly realizes not everyone has a red Bloodpack sash. Taking a silken kerchief from her personal belongings, the daughter of Hook City holds the fabric between her hands and concentrates. As ink running over parchment, the biege sash become crimson red in color.
"Ulgren, I have heard how you came to the Bloodpack, and I have seen how bravely you brought the battle to the Avatar. Accept this sash as a symbol of belonging if you so desire."
And then she looks at the others. "Well, um, that is if everyone else agrees?"
Trellus Sunday October 30th, 2005 8:43:43 AM
"Tishe, I'm not sure weaving in a Circle gives us protection against storytelling. At least not in the city itself. No one ever talks about the outside," Trellus responds. "Just be careful."
"You got a shady idea about Ulgren though." He turns to the drow. "If you're willing to join our pack, and everyone else is shady with it, of course.
The cleric looks around to gauge the reaction of his friends.
Nighttime (DM MikeK) Sunday October 30th, 2005 8:52:14 AM
[OOC - A waterskin holds two quarts]
Gilan returns to report his discoveries, but the Bloodpack seems content to wait out the night where they are.
Anuk is able to scrounge up a half hollow tube that he can use as a mini canteen (one quart of water).
Some attempt is made to divvy up the treasure, and Trellus and Tishe offer to add Ulgren to the pack.
While all this is going on, night begins to descend on the Sargass Plains. With the setting of the sun, the temperature drops considerably. The sounds of insects emerging for the night resound throughout the area.
All but Tishe, Mac, and Ulgren are aware that sleeping directly on the ground is a bad idea, and begin pulling down grasses to weave bed mats.
Please describe any protections for sleep, and watch order
Flea d20+3=17 d20+13=33 d20+9=21 d20+11=17 Sunday October 30th, 2005 10:22:57 AM
Using a dagger, Flea cuts down some grasses and starts to weave them together (Untrained Craft=17) the way Sterlin had shown them before he went walker. (See DM post July 28, 2003) It is supposed to look like a miniature version of the protective dome over Rattledam. "You ever see one of these?" she asks the newer members of the group, "This should keep the creepers out," she explains as if they haven't.
Removing a few items from her pack, the gnome shoves the HHHaversack inside the shelter. "I'll take a middle watch," she volunteers, as she starts to search for something with which to make a fire. (Search-33, nat. 20) Flea remembers with distaste that the last time the party was on the plains she used dried rapke p**p for fuel.
During Watch:
Spot=21 Listen=17
Note to DM: Flea has a bedroll and Cloak of Comfort for protection and warmth. She has a tinderbox she can use to start a fire.
Jake (Low-light Vision) d20+6=10 d20+6=23 Sunday October 30th, 2005 10:56:20 AM
Jake watches as the pack makes busy around camp. "I'll keep watch now, while you all make camp, 'an again later if ya need me."
The fighter roams around the perimeter of the camp on the lookout for trouble. (Listen=10, Spot=23) When it is his time to sleep, he assumes the pack mate who is on watch won't mind if he gets a little shut eye in the vacated shelter. The half elf is oblivious to the fact that the owner of the shelter might actually return and want to resume occupancy. If Jake gets kicked out, he'll wrap himself up in his bedroll and hunker down by the fire Flea made.
(OOC: Last sub for Mikey.-Carla)
Gilan d20+8=20 d20+8=18 Sunday October 30th, 2005 2:42:46 PM
Gilan nods his head as the others decide to spend the night. He digs in his haversack and comes out with a tent and shakes his head. "Forgot I even had this." He goes about setting up the tent and then shakes his head. "Well it was designed for the insects of the Plains so it should also be cool...well to a point if anyone is interested." He sets up his own grassmat as he prepares to get some rest.
Munching on a rather large locust he looks to the others and nods his head. "Ulgren would be welcome...he has proven himself." He says no more for now as he ponders the turn of events and then speaks up again. "My night vision is not too good in this form but I could use a different one but Ciaran here is no slouch at night hunting." He ruffs up the wolve's fur as he smiles. You notice that he had made his mat a little larger to accomodate his new friend. "A late watch for me so that I can be up before the sun for my morning prayers." Gilan shares his watch with his wolf Ciaran and whoever else maybe set up to watch with him.
[listen 20 and spot 18]
MikeK - Get that CS to you ASAP. Having to rewrite it for my new computer that has no floppy drive...only a cd burner. Having to rewrite a lot of things and burn it to cd.
Mac d20+1=10 Sunday October 30th, 2005 3:26:41 PM
Mac follows the lead and tries to weave a mat from the grasses, though it is going to take him some time [Craft(Grassweaving):11 (+2, not +1)].
"Midwatch." he chimes in. ['chimes' is really the wrong word here!] Though as his weaving progresses, he wonders if he will be getting any rest during the first watch.
Galea's accomodation caters to a light cloth drop for dust, etc and a heavier one for warmth and rain protection.
Tishe' (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON) d20+12=15 Sunday October 30th, 2005 11:13:46 PM
It is tough weaving grass while coughing, but, following the gnome's directions, Tishe' uses her weaving expertise to help Flea construct a grass insect shelter for the both of them (Craft:weaving:15) Her bedroll is laid on top, and she casts Endure Elements on herself with her rod to last for two days.
"First watch for me, packmates", the young woman announces. "Wart will keep me alert and I'll be shuttlecocked to pick spells in the morning."
Tishe' will spend her watch by braiding her hair and talking with whoever is up with her, learning more about her friends and the wonder of Sargrass.
Anuk d20+13=23 d20+11=28 d20+11=28 Monday October 31st, 2005 12:46:45 PM
"Wake me for last watch," says the young ranger, weaving his own basket/dome with a practiced hand. (survival 23)
Once everything is in place, he pulls his bedroll from his sack and crawls under the dome for some shuteye.
When time comes for his watch he keeps a close eye and ear on the grasses surrounding the pack.
spot 28 listen 28
Trellus d20=17 Monday October 31st, 2005 8:43:49 PM
"I'll take last with Anuk," Trellus adds. He too starts weaving a little tent. And does a fairly shady job of it too, if he does say so himself. [Craft - 19]
Morning (DM MikeK) Monday October 31st, 2005 8:56:54 PM
Knowing they need to keep the nighttime bugs away, most of the Bloodpack get to work on keeping the bugs away. Eventually, Mac gets some help, and everyone but Jake is finished with their tasks on time.
The half-elf happily confiscates the perfectly good tent that Gilan has graciously set up for anybody to use.
The night passes. It is a new moon, but cloudless as usual. Millions of stars dot the nighttime sky. The sound of insect pervades the air, and soon many tiny creatures can be heard on the woven coverings of the Bloodpack. Biting flies quickly discover those on watch. Other sounds can be heard, a high pitched shrieking occasionally echoes across the Plains from unknown distances. Tishe, Ulgren, and Mac feel the hair on the back of their necks stand up at the sounds, and can only wonder what makes them. Everyone else knows all too well the call of a rapke.
But the sounds remain far off, and dawn comes without incident.
Morning breaks, and with it, the need for a meal and time to peruse spell books.
The day promises to be long and hot.
Please list spells taken.
Please make a Listen check.
Ulgren d20=1 d20+1=17 Monday October 31st, 2005 8:57:20 PM
OOC: I started this post prior to the DM posting for today. I have ammended it to include the next post.
Ulgren smiles at Tishe' as she holds out the scarf but waits to take the proffered item until the rest of the pack chimes in. Ulgren waits what seems to be an interminable time then nods his head at Tishe', "I am sorry but I cannot accept your gift until the entire pack has weighed in and accepted me or not." Ulgren smiles softly at the young lady, "I have no fear that in due time, and when I have proved my mettle they will accept me." Ulgren watches the experienced pack members make their grass shelters and shrugs. The drow attempts to pull down enough grass to make him a shelter,(DC 1), seeing that he hasn't a clue how to build a shelter the drow reaches into his pocket and pulls out a ten foot pole and then into his other and pulls out six yards of canvas. Ulgren looks around and places his pole on the ops of two shelters and then lay his canvas over the pole creating a makeshift lean-to with enough canvas drapping over the top to give him shelter from the light of the fire and the insects that the pack claims venture out at night. Ulgren looks at the others, What do we burn for fuel in the fire? Grass? or have I missed something?" Ulgren passes the night quietly and wakes up rested. Spending a quiet hour Ulgren reads his spellbook and when finished places it in its pocket. Ulgren steps out and begins disassembling his shelter and smiles warmly at his friends. "I have four Mending spells prepared if we wish to fix the waterskins." Ulgren waits for an answer and Casts an extended Mage Armour on himself." Listen DC 17.
Jake d20+5=23 Monday October 31st, 2005 11:02:16 PM
(Back from vacation... thanks to those who took over my character and such. :) ) Jake wakes up early and gets a bit of practicing done with his sword. Always good to get in tempo before the sun gets rising. Then, what with water still plentiful, he takes a good drink from Grymash. For breakfast, he's not too hungry and gets by with a bit of dried fruit that he has (one iron ration consumed). He puts on his armor somewhat reluctantly and gets ready to go. Suddenly, he twitches his ears, listening. (Listen 23)
Gilan[endure elements, longstrider] : Ciaran[endure elements, longstrider] d20+10=28 d20+10=29 d20+18=22 Monday October 31st, 2005 11:05:58 PM
Gilan is up early the next morning or rather he is already up and fully rested, having taken part in the last watch of the day. He moves off to the side of the group and sits down facing the rising sun. He starts a rough morning song in praise to Mother Wold with Ciaran accompanying him, making an earie bit of music for the morning.
At last he moves back into camp and looks to his tent. He is glad that at least someone made use of it after he set it up. He know goes about tearing it down and munching on some breakfast. He listens and watches the surrounding area as he waits for the others, taping himself and Ciaran with a wand from his pack. "Anyone else...it is going to be a hot one today...what direction do we want to head this morning?" He watches the sky for an idea of what the weather is going to bring besides heat this day. He makes it a point to cast two more spells upon himself and Ciaran before they move out.
Tishe' (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON)[Endure Elements, Longstrider, Mage Armor] d20=13 d20+7=15 Monday October 31st, 2005 11:39:12 PM
The night passes with the druidic mage waking several times at the call of the rapke. What a horror filled sound!
In the morning she joins the praises to Mother Wold by humming a counterpoint that wasnt too bad(or so she believes; Perform: 13)
She studies spells in her spellbook as well as contempating the wonders of the Wold and studying the two scrolls Gilan gave her (able to cast Euphoria and Hornet's Nest now) and sets in her mind her daily spells.
"Ulgren and I can mend the water skins, and then we can fill up from Grymash's barrel and refill it with spelled water.", Tishe' says happily, offering to mend one more and create 3 gallons of water for Grymash's barrel.
She also casts Longstrider on herself to help the hike to come, and Mage Armor (extended with rod) for the day.
Mac d20+1=5 Tuesday November 1st, 2005 1:05:27 AM
[Listen:5]
Mac thanks the extra hands from last night and sets about making a paste out of some of last night's remains from dinner for Galea.
He refills the empty, repaired waterskin, and takes a quarter-mouthful that he soaks, swishes and swills about his closed mouth and drains it down his throat a trickle at a time over some minutes.
Anuk d20+15=25 d20+13=29 Tuesday November 1st, 2005 5:09:40 PM
During the night and his watch, Anuk listens intently to the rapke, noting their distance from the pack with each round of cries.
(listen 23 (includes +2 for favored enemy, but accidently added 4 instead of 2))
"Trellus, I think we should probably head for that outcropping of rock that Gilan spotted. We'll be able to track the rapke better from high ground," he tells he cleric during their watch together.
Once the sun is fully up and the others are awake, Anuk meditates for a while then forages for a few more insect snacks for he and Twinge.
(Prepares Entangle and Endure Elements) (Survival 29)
As he ambles back into camp, he overhears Ulgren and Tishe'.
"Ulgren...I'm sorry I have not been more forthcoming. You've already fought at our side and proved yourself as far as I'm concerned. You are Bloodpack, be sure of that." With a wide gring on his face he extends his gloved hand to the drow.
Trellus' easy grin is back in place at Ulgren's question regarding fuel. "Bounder bouncers", he replies gaily. "'Nuk can find some, I'm sure." The grin falls a bit. "Actually we run a cold camp most of the time. Light attracts some sunbaked critters."
During the watch, the blond man nods along with Anuk. He absentmindedly traces a line across his abdomen as he listens to the call of the rapke. "Truly," he agrees.
In the morning, the cleric holds out his two ruined waterskins to be repaired. "Shady thinking, Tishe'".
Raising his voice, he addresses the group. "'Nuk and I are thinking we should head for Gilan's rocks. We can take a look around and see if we can figure out where those rapke are." Trellus starts to move off to pray, but midstep realizes that not all of the Bloodpack will understand why he wants to know where the rapke are. "Then we can go the other way," he finishes.
Trellus spends some time praying to Domi, taking what he considers his "standard" spells.
Spells Prepared: 0 - Create Water (x2), Detect Magic (x2), Detect Poison, Read Magic 1 -- Endure Elements (x2), Bless, Doom, Prot from Evil, Remove Fear 2 -- Hold Person, Owls Wisdom, Spiritual Weapon (x2) 3 - Dispel Magic, Remove Disease, Prayer, Searing Light 4 -- Air Walk, Freedom of Movement, Summon Monster IV
Now Listen here (DM MikeK) Tuesday November 1st, 2005 9:04:01 PM
Anuk can't quite determine the distance to the rapke, although he is certain its more than a mile away.
Ulgren spends an easy night in his makeshift tent. The drow does note quite a bit of insect activity while on watch, and is grateful to have a resting place that escapes them. In the morning, he offers to mend any waterskins. Trellus offers up two. The wizard quickly fixes both.
Jake, as usual, is at the front of the line at Grymash's water barrel. The party drinks their fill. Those with functional waterskins fill up (Trellus with two, Mac with one -- anyone else?)
After studying her spells, Tishe adds 3 gallons of water back into the communal barrel, and Gry places it back in his pack.
Anuk returns from his foraging trip with a good sized Plains breakfast of insects and tubers. He also welcomes Ulgren to the Bloodpack.
The camp is pretty much disbanded, and the last few chores nearly accomplished when both Gilan and Trellus suddenly freeze and look to the west, listening carefully. Trellus and Gilan Highlight to display spoiler: { From the west comes a far off scream. It is a good distance away, barely audible. And yet, now that they are tuned in, the two men here a reply. And another. And another. Maybe a half mile away, maybe farther. But without a doubt, there is a line of rapke to the west. And they are on the hunt.}
[I only have sheets from Mac, Trellus, Gilan, and Tishe]
Gilan[endure elements, longstrider] : Ciaran[endure elements, longstrider, greatger magic fang] d20+10=11 d20+10=21 d20+14=34 Tuesday November 1st, 2005 10:05:20 PM
Gilan glances to Trellus and shakes his head. "Hunting pack...we maybe fighting sooner than we expected." He glances to the others and then hurries to get himself ready. "Trell, lets just head for the rocks now...we can eat and the like on the move...we do not want to be caught this exposed better to have high ground."
He keeps his ears and eyes open for more signs of this hunting pack. His mind races as he tries to remember the usual number of rapke in a hunting pack. Ciaran has hackles raised and a low growl rumbles from his throat as he looks to Gilan, as if reading his mind. He once again pulls out the rod from earlier and casts another spell upon Ciaran, then slips it away. "Are we ready Trell?"
Tishe' (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON)[Endure Elements, Longstrider, Mage Armor] Tuesday November 1st, 2005 10:47:50 PM
Tishe' has a horrified look on her face about finding out where the Rapke's are. "Why in the Wold would you...", she begins, only to listen to Trellus' explanation. "Oh, well, that makes sense to me."
Offered a Sargrass breakfast, the brown eyes widen a little and she shakes her head, consoling her stomach once again on trail rations. Perhaps there will be a time when there is no choice, but the time is not now. She swigs from her waterskin and moves it onto her shoulder for easy retrieval throughout the day.
And then Gilan talks about a 'hunting pack' and there is only one thing that he and Trellus had been talking about. "It's the Rapke's?", she asks, but it is really not a question.
Glad she has the Longstrider spell on, she loads her crossbow and follows Anuk towards the rocky outcropping.
Mac Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 5:41:38 AM
Talk of rapke again, though this time the talk is of now - not of the past. "Okay, so wha' are rapke? I know you've mentioned them before, but wha' are they? Wha' do I need to know if they are threatening the pack?"
Jake Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 6:38:50 AM
Though he's familiar with the osunds of the rapke, he's hoping they aren't coming. When gilan says they're nearby, the skinny half-elf looks somewhat dismayed and immediately draws his sword. "Rapke are about the biggest, meanest things on the plains. They grow with time, and the bigger they are, the hungrier they are. We've seen the Barons sometimes riding a few, but ah dunno how they can control them if they ain't like Gil. Rapke hunting pack... Danged... Ah dunno anyone who's survived an attack by a whole pack. But hey, we're a pack, too, if we work together, we might survive, right?"
Anuk d20+10=29 d20+15=23 d20+15=19 d20+17=24 Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 2:35:10 PM
"Jake's right...we're gonna have to work together...the higher ground we're on the better off we'll be. Ready?"
When all are ready, Anuk takes his cues from Gilan as to the direction of the rock and then takes a lead position through the grasses. He keeps a contant eye and ear cocked for any sign that the rapke are getting closer.
knowledge (plains) 29 listen 23 (+4 for favored enemy) spot 19 (+4 for favored enemy) survival 24 (+4 for favored enemy)
Trellus(Magic Vestment -extended) Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 3:28:32 PM
Trellus nods to Gilan and Anuk, his face all business.
"Truly," he replies to their suggestion to head for the rocks. "Gilan and 'Nuk take lead. Gry 'n Mac, watch our backs."
The blond man tries to sum up a rapke as best he can for Mac. "Rapke are the top weavers on the Plains. Each is about 10' tall and 10' long, and there's always more than one. They walk on two feet, and use their front claws and teeth to attack. They're poisonous, but I got a wand for that.
They usually start with that scream. Up close, it can be so loud it stuns you for a second. Which ain't shady. And they can move a whole lot faster in the Grass than we can.
You or Gry can probably match up with a normal one. But like I said, they don't come in ones. And sometimes they ain't so normal. Everybody stay together. They like stragglers."
Trellus takes the time to cast a spell on his shield, and then ushers the group towards Gilan's rocks.
Ulgren : AC 19 Hps 33 Mage Armour(extended) Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 8:26:16 PM
Ulgren quickly fixes Trellus two waterskins and then fixes two of his own waterskins and fills them from Grymash's water barrel. Ulgren backs away from the back a bit and watches each of them trying to get a read on who they are. "If these Rapke are fierce beasts then indeed let us be off." Ulgren smiles at his awkward sentence and mumbles to himself, "my mother would be proud," followed by soft laugh. As the pack heads towards the outcropping of rocks the drow falls in with Anuk, "Thanks for accepting me, you and Tishe' are the first to do so and I am very honored."
Here come the rapke (DM MikeK) Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 9:54:50 PM
The older members of the Bloodpack share their concerns and knowledge regarding the rapke. Within a few moments of making their decision, the group is off and pushing toward the rock outcropping Gilan spotted the day before.
However, flying over the Grass and plowing through the Grass are two entirely different experiences. The grass is tall and thick. It towers nearly 30' high and has the diameter of Ulgren's arm. While some of the Bloodpack have the means to pass through the jumbled blades, most -- especially Jake -- have to force their way through step by grueling step. [Movement through the Grass is halved]
Within an hour, everyone can hear the approaching calls of the rapke pack. Anuk and Gilan estimate them to be no more than a half mile distant. From their calls, the creatures appear to form a long line running north to south and moving from west to east. There also appears to be more than a dozen, possibly as many as two dozen rapke in the hunt.
At the current rate of speed of each group, ranger and druid figure that in another hour, both the rapke and the Bloodpack are going to occupying the same spot of ground. And they will be well short of the rock outcropping.
Gilan[endure elements, longstrider] : Ciaran[endure elements, longstrider, greatger magic fang] d20+10=26 d20+10=18 Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 10:27:25 PM
Gilan stops to have a discussion with Anuk as he waits for the rest to catch up. "We are not going to make it to the rocks." He looks to the rest and shrugs his shoulders as he contemplates his next move. "Unless one of us stays behind a little and buys some time." His eyes catch Anuk's and hold them as he relays unspoken what it is that he has plan.
As Trellus and the rest pull up closer he shakes his head. "We will never make the rocks but meet them on the way...in this grass." His hand gives a sweeping gesture as he indicates the grass around them. "In one of my flying forms I might locate them and slow them enough for you to reach the rock...if not I will slow the pack enough to limit their numbers." His eyes drill hard into Trellus for a few minutes as he waits for the refusal...but they would have little choice or chance. Looking to his wolf he smiles sadly. "You will take Ciaran with you...he will listen to Tishe' or Anuk."
Tishe' (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON)[Endure Elements, Longstrider, Mage Armor] Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 10:43:14 PM
Tishe' gets more worried as the hour passes. She can easily pass through the undergrowth, but some of the others are having a tougher time of it.
"If Mac is in front, can he break a path for the others and be able to move more quickly?", she asks. The brown-haired woman doesn't want to hurt the 'grass, but also hates Gilan's plan of going off by himself to slow the Rapkes.
"What if they stun you somehow," she asks the druid, "and there won't be anyone there to help."
"Two of our slowest members I can give them the ability to fly for a couple of minutes if that can help.", she continues, throwing suggestions in the air like confetti.
"How about creating some water behind us to attract bugs and slow down the Rapke?"
Flea (AC19, 53/53 HP, Hasted) Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 11:21:26 PM "Hey!" comes from inside the woven bubble, Hey! Wait for me!
A disheveled gnome emerges from inside the protective dome of woven grass, flinging a pack over her shoulder, as she hastily dones her cloak and wraps a maroon scarf turban-style around her head.
Having taken a middle watch, and then having spent much of the night tossing and turning, the rogue had finally fallen asleep just as the sun was rising on the plains. Oblivious to the sounds of camp, the gnome had slept on lost in a dream.
Flea clicks the heals of her boots together as she hustles after the pack heading out towards who knows what.
DM Info:
*Boots of Speed-p. 250 DMG guide-act as though affected by a Haste Spell...p. 239 PHB) 1/10 rounds (not required to be consecutive rounds)
Jake Thursday November 3rd, 2005 5:45:55 AM
Jake sighs. "Ah'm slowing us down the most... this danged armor!" He stops, and begins taking it off. "Hey, 'Nuk, give me a hand here..." With another's help, he gets it off in about a minute. Then, carrying it in his pack, he can move much quicker, about as fast as anyone else in the group. While he's stripping, he comments, "When time to come fights, ah'll need to put it on... "Ah don't think flies will stop 'em too long; we could dump all our water down in the ground. They smell that, y'know. That might stall 'em...but we'd have no more water. Still, it might be worth it to lose them. We ain't gonna leave someone behind to them, tho..."
(About two minutes before they close in on us, Jake will put on his armor again)
Mac d20+1=13 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 3:37:37 PM
When the move out starts in earnest, Mac falls in at the back of the pack with Gry, and tries to get a better idea of what is coming from where. [Listen:13]
"Gry? You've seen the rapke before - talk tactics! I need to know now we are going to be the first defensive line."
Mac (illegal second post) Thursday November 3rd, 2005 3:49:05 PM
Mac looks towards Tishe', "Did you say Fly? How fast are the rapke? Can they attack us up in the air? Do we have a Bull's Strength and Enlarge Person and something we can do to make them last longer? We might all get to make a stand at the outcrop after all."
Anuk d20+15=31 d20+15=32 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 4:44:58 PM
While keeping an eye and ear on the surroundings, Anuk stops to help Jake get out of his armor, working to get him out quickly. The whole time he's considering Gilan's proposition.
"Gilan, if we can avoid separating, I think that would be best...whenever we separate that seems to cause the most trouble for the whole pack. I like Tishe' and Mac's idea of enlarging someone to fly us all out of here, but if we can't do that, maybe you could fly up and spot the rapke for us so we're ready?"
Spot 31, Listen 32 (added in the favored enemy bonus)
Ulgren : AC 19 Hps 33 Mage Armour (extended) Thursday November 3rd, 2005 8:11:22 PM
Ulgren snaps his fingers, "I have two levitate spells, if two can fly then they can drag at least two more and I can cast the levitate to be extended for a total of 14 minutes, if we flew at max speed and the people levitating carries a person thats a total of six people minimum. " Ulgren stopped for a second a nd plunged on "If the levitating people are bull strengthed then they can carry two people and that should be all of us." Ulgren stopped and waited to hear the rest."
Trellus Thursday November 3rd, 2005 8:36:13 PM
Trellus rubs the back of his head furiously. "OK, let's see what we've got," he says.
"Gilan can fly all by himself, forever, so he's good. I've got a rod someone can use to extend two spells. So for Tishe, that'd be two Fly spells for 14 minutes. I've got a Bulls Strength, Ulgren's got two Levitates. Anybody got an Enlarge Person?
Who's got more Extends?
So, say we bulk up Gry and Mac. Gilan's good, but the wolf isn't. Giant Mac can carry, what? Three? Four? Ciaran, Flea, Ulgren and Anuk. Plus the levitated guy. Say me.
That leaves Gry to carry Tishe and Jake, or carry one pull one.
So we need Two Enlarge Persons, and four more Extends.
Whaddya we got dudes?"
Fast planning (DM MikeK) Thursday November 3rd, 2005 8:39:09 PM
Realizing their present course of action will not succeed, the pack has a quick jam session.
Jake gets out of his platemail, as the rest try to determine what to do.
Meanwhile, the rapke close.
Gilan[endure elements, longstrider] : Ciaran[endure elements, longstrider, greatger magic fang] d20+10=28 d20+10=27 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 10:35:48 PM
Gilan shrugs as he listens to the suggestions. He slips a hand over his mouth to hide a smile. He had figured as much and his pack had not proven him wrong...make a suggestion of splitting and they would pull together. "So you guys prepare and I will do a little scouting and see where the rapke are at." He looks around and then drops to his knees in front of Ciaran. "Do as they say boy...listen to Anuk or Tishe' and you will be safe." He indicates both members of the pack as he says their names. He slips a wand into Tishe''s hand and lays a hand upon her shoulder. "If you need to speak to him use the wand or let Anuk to it..." Looking to Ciaran once more he moves off to the side. "Take care of him."
Gilan looks to Trellus and nods his head as he stands back up. "I figured a push in the right direction would get the lot of you thinking." He looks in the general direction that the rapke should be and a glimmer appears in his eyes. "Will we be needing any extra time at all...I can easily drop some water on their heads and stay out of reach of that screech...I mean it has a short range and my spell a long one." He will wait for a few minutes to get a reply and then take on the form of a large Sargrass Wasp and take off for some aeriel recon.
Flea (AC19, 53/53 HP) Thursday November 3rd, 2005 11:06:24 PM
Flea moves over to stand by Anuk. "I'll weave with you, if you don't mind!" she says. Her smile is hidden behind a fold of the maroon headress, but the ranger should be able to to see the corners of her eyes crinkle. Flea reaches inside her cloak and pulls a wand out from her belt. "I've got a new pick, too!" she says, adding, "actually, I've got a few new picks!"
Tishe' (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON)[Endure Elements, Longstrider, Mage Armor] Thursday November 3rd, 2005 11:24:04 PM
Tishe' smiles at Trellus in charge, he sure knows how to sum up a problem. And everyone will be able to help, too.
"I've got one charge left in my rod of extension, and doesn't Gilan have one as well? And as for the Enlarge Persons, I've got that Enlarging Wand I had been using in battle, and can easily hit two people with it multiple times. With my Enlarge wand, we don't need two extends, and I also have a Flying potion, but it only lasts 5 minutes, so maybe for an emergency."
Tishe' takes Gilan's wand and immediately strikes Anuk so he can talk to Ciaran.
She produces her Enlarging Wand to strike Gry and Mac. She produces the flying potion and readies her spells to hit Gry and Mac. Waiting for Gry to pick up her and Jake, Mac to pick up four, and Ulgren to cast the two levitation spells, she then casts the flying spells with extend on Gry and Mac, giving them 10 minutes of flying time at 60 feet per move, (double move at 120')
Endure Elements, extend, shared Wart [40 hours] Longstrider [3 hours] Mage Armore [10 hours] Fly on Gry, extend, [10 minutes] Fly on Mac, extend, [10 minutes] Enlarge on Gry, [5 minutes] Enlarge on Mac, [5 minutes]
Druidic: 0: create water*, detect magic, mending, know direction 1: Endure Elements*, Faerie Fire, Longstrider* 2: cats grace, hold animal
Grymash (protection from evil) d20+2=17 d20+5=25 Friday November 4th, 2005 1:36:16 AM
(sorry for the lack of posting. ive been busy.)
Grymash speaks in a hushed tone. Very unusual for the half-orc. It eludes to the seriousness of the situation. Grymash doesn't fear the rapke, but he does respect their power. "shhhh," says Gry in response to Mac's questions about tactics. "when da rapke start ta fight ya. Hit'em wit your axe. many times. till rapke stop dead. Oh, an no listen to da rapke scream. It make peoples scared like piggies. No let rapke jump on yaz too. dat be bad!"
Grymash prepares himself for whatever is about to happen. He casts Protection from Evil and draws his double axe out of his magic quiver. He waits for whatever magik to be cast upon him. He does what he's told. He doesnt exactly grasp the idea that his pack has concocted.
(Spot 17, Listen 25, natural 20)
Jake Friday November 4th, 2005 4:40:51 AM
For his part, Jake doesn't think temporary magic and avoidance can stay out of the grim jaws of the rapkes. "10 minutes ain't nuttin' to most things that grow on the Plains. They have time to watch the grass grow, ta wait for their enemies ta pop outta a hidin' place..." Still, faced with a choice, Jake does like the flying ahead option. "It's faster above the grasses 'n in 'em."
Trellus Friday November 4th, 2005 9:10:32 AM
The blond cleric winks at Gilan. "Nothing like the thought of becoming lunch to get the brain weaving," he chuckles back.
"I think the water pick won't hurt, so go ahead."
Hearing Jake, Trellus nods. "We're not gonna get away," he agrees. "But we might get to those rocks. We get there, and get to a point where we can see 'em when they're still a ways off, then we're shady. You saw Ulgren's fireball. "
Which reminds the cleric....
"Uh, Ulgren, you really don't want to cast fire spells in the Grass. Its really dry stuff."
Mac - Enlarged (16' tall, Max Heavy load 2080lbs) Friday November 4th, 2005 5:48:00 PM
Mac looks from Ulgren to Flea to Anuk and Ciaran. "Save the Bull's Strength for later - this lot should come in under 2000lbs easy. Flea can sit up on my backpack, though if she's careful she could climb half in it. Anuk and Ulgen - take a seat on a shoulder each and you can hold onto a horn for balance. When everyone's holding fast, I'll scoop Ciaran up...
...then we need Trellus tethered and we're off! How goes things there Gry?"
Tishe' (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON)[Endure Elements, Longstrider, Mage Armor] Friday November 4th, 2005 10:37:33 PM
Weaving her spells, Tishe' is again amazed at the power of Mac, what a sweetie!
The brown-eyed woman moves to Grymash to get him to pick her up. "Grymash sweetie, you need to put away your Gargul Axe and pick up me and Jake. Then we'll fly to the rocks. And then we'll take apart the threads of some rapke."
Endure Elements, extend, shared Wart [40 hours] Longstrider [3 hours] Mage Armore [10 hours] Fly on Gry, extend, [10 minutes] Fly on Mac, extend, [10 minutes] Enlarge on Gry, [5 minutes] Enlarge on Mac, [5 minutes]
Druidic: 0: create water*, detect magic, mending, know direction 1: Endure Elements*, Faerie Fire, Longstrider* 2: cats grace, hold animal
Born Free..... (DM MikeK) Sunday November 6th, 2005 7:51:44 PM
Tishe, Ulgren, and Trellus quickly put the plan into effect.
Tishe uses her wand to Enlarge Mac and Gry. Ropes are found, and Flea tethers Trellus to the huge Mac, and tethers Jake to the half orc. Ulgren casts extended Levitate spells on cleric and the elfin fighter. When everything is set, Tishe casts extended Fly spells on Mac and Grymash.
The 1 ton taur swoops into the air, with the perplexed barbarian a half beat behind.
Five minutes later, Tishe casts two more Enlarge spells on Mac and Gry, allowing them to continue carrying the weight.
Its quite a ride for most as the sail across the tops of the Grass, heading for the faraway rock formation. The wind whips through hair and roars in the ears, obscuring any sound -- rapke or otherwise. Unfortunately, it is over all too soon.
Gry and Mac descend back into the thick grass. The Bloodpack has covered a lot of ground. They've gone twice as far in 10 minutes than they had in the previous hour. The rapke sound much fainter, farther than they were when the group started.
From the air, Anuk saw the rocks. The ranger's mind whirls. He believes The Bloodpack is still 3 or 4 hours from them. He also believes the rapke are somewhere between 2 to 4 hours from the Bloodpack.
It is now a race.
Meanwhile, Gilan-eagle is gaining altitude and peering down on his pursuers. Gilan Highlight to display spoiler: { It's a Baron hunt. Baron bearing rapke and bounders extend at least a mile north and south. There are easily a hundred and fifty creatures, a quarter of which are rapke. The line moves steadily eastward. A quick glance toward his airborne companions confirms they are extending their lead. Movement a few hundred feet ahead of the Hunt draws Gilan's attention. Even with his currently enhanced vision, he has to look long and hard to make out the small black forms racing ahead of the line of rapke and barons. More minutes of observation confirm it.
Manfri race ahead of a line of rapke and bounders, neither increasing nor decreasing the interval between them and their hunters. They are making directly for the rock outcropping, and the Bloodpack directly in the way.
Exactly like the last time. }
Ulgren : AC 19 Hps 33 Mage Armour Sunday November 6th, 2005 8:48:11 PM
Ulgren smiles as he is lifted into the air and enjoys the wind whipping his hair around, unfortunately the ride ends too quickly and the drow finds himself in the grass again and needing to move quickly. Ulgren quickly resecures his backpack and grabs a quick drink from his waterskin, "Which way? Can we move faster, at a light jog or run a little at a time?"
Tishe' (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON)[Endure Elements, Longstrider, Mage Armor] Sunday November 6th, 2005 11:19:16 PM
"I see two choices," says the spellweaver, "we race for the rocks or we use the time to clear a space and see the beaters coming."
It only takes a second for Tishe' to respond to her own question. "I'd like to try the rocks pick myself. I've still got plenty of charges left on my Enlarging Wand. I can keep enlarging Grymash for almost four hours and he can carry Jake while Mac keeps Flea on his head. With them being higher up, they can watch for rapkes and Gilan."
Through the Tears of the Dragon, Tishe' knows the druid is relatively healthy, and prays to Alemi for protection and Gargul to keep his life strong.
"If the rapke will weave faster than us to the rocks, I have a scroll with Rope Trick and my spellbook has Rope Trick inscribed as well. I can use both of them to create two safe places for us to stay for six hours, enough time for the rapke to pass." She pauses a moment, looking at the drow. "Ulgren can use the pick to let us stay for longer than I could."
Tishe's face looks like the idea is painful, but she would willingly destroy her entire spellbook for the good of the 'pack, and the brown-eyes flash with resolve.
Jake Monday November 7th, 2005 8:09:10 AM
"Ah dunno, miss Tishe. Rapke ain't nothin' if not persistent." He huffs a little, carrying along his pack at a steady hustle as he speaks. "Ah wouldn't be surprised if six hours ain't long enough, if they can smell ya or something. We might make it tho... and if not, we fight 'em. It's easy as that."
Anuk Monday November 7th, 2005 10:20:01 AM
Anuk sits perched on Mac's shoulder, Ciaran at his side and Twinge tucked securely in his pack. "Don't worry...it's okay..." he quietly tells the wolf, stroking it's head and hoping to keep him calm.
Seeing the distance the pack must cover he says, "We'll move faster than the rapke if we can keep going in a straight line but keep them running around. Perhaps if we prepare some water to drop behind us when they are nearer? We could create walls of bugs that they'll have to evade...that may slow them up enough for us to get there first."
Flea d20+13=29 d20+9=12 Monday November 7th, 2005 2:54:27 PM
Flea disentangles herself from the ropes around Mac and then carefully loosens them so that the others who hitched a ride are also freed.
"I'm with Tishe," she pipes up, "lets weave for the rocks." Flea contemplates using the magic of her boots, and then sighs. Seeking out the 'taur, she ask, "um, Mac, um, could I hitch a ride? Only if it won't do you any harm, mind," asks the gnome appologetically, adding, "I'm afraid I won't be able to keep up with the group on my own."
"'Sides," she adds, "I won't be able to see much from down here, but I could try to keep an eye on the rocks as well as be a lookout from your shoulders," she asks hopefully.
Search=29 Spot=12
(OOC: Flea weighs about 35 lbs. and carries a light load.)
Mac Monday November 7th, 2005 3:08:15 PM "Good ideas! Can you prepare up there Anuk?"
Mac tries to get back into a steady gate in the grass.
Trellus (Freedom of Movement) Monday November 7th, 2005 8:26:19 PM
Trellus looks up at the tall grass. "Let's make for the rocks, best we can right now," he says. "Give Gilan a chance to let us know the pattern before we try anything else."
With Jake out of his armor, the blond man realizes he is now the slowest member of the group. He casts a spell on himself to allow him to pass through the Grass easier.
[Freedom of Movement - 80 minutes.]
To the Rocks! (DM MikeK) Monday November 7th, 2005 8:30:48 PM
As Gilan is still scouting out the rapke, the rest of the Bloodpack decides to press on for the rock outcropping. The gigantic minotaur crashes through thick Grass that still rises above even his head. The rest of the group pushes onward in his wake.
From behind comes the sounds of rapke calls.
I need to know everyone's current speed through the grass. Remember, movement is halved unless you've got a spell or something that overcomes it.
Ulgren : AC 19 Hps 33 Mage Armour (extended) Monday November 7th, 2005 9:19:01 PM
Ulgren straightens up, "I won't be moving very fast either," the drow says quietly looking at the others prepare themselves. "I can't move any faster than I was before we flew to this spot so please let me keep up."
Flea Monday November 7th, 2005 9:36:50 PM
The gnome grimaces. "If the rocks are 3 or 4 hours away my boots or other magics won't be of much help, and I'd rather save them for if we have to fight."
DM Sanity Info:
Base speed 20 ft.
*Boots of Speed-p. 250 DMG guide-act as though affected by a Haste Spell...p. 239 PHB) 1/10 rounds (not required to be consecutive rounds)-Flea will not use since it would only last 9 rounds.
Escape Seal activated as a free action gives user Freedom of Movement for 3 rounds.-Flea will use this as a mad dash at the last minute, either for herself, of transferred to Mac if he is willing to giver her a piggy back ride.
Mac d20+5=16 Monday November 7th, 2005 9:37:55 PM
Focusing on the way ahead Mac makes steady headway though the grass.
[Spot:16]
Movement: 30' /2(grass) x2 (hustle) = 30'/round Assuming that with Ulgren off already the people he's carrying come in at under 600lb. Else that would be 20'/round.
Gilan[endure elements, longstrider] : Ciaran[endure elements, longstrider, greatger magic fang] d20+10=12 d20+10=24 Monday November 7th, 2005 11:13:45 PM
Gilan buzzes lightly as he flies over the hunting party and would have shaked his head if he had one. He had thought to slow them down for the group but now he sees a bigger problem and he has to help out as best he can.
Buzzing and weaving in the air he casts one spell and then will drop another at the next opportunity. He creates two donwpours of water over top of the hunters in the time that he has to him. After that he will race to catch up with the rest of the pack.
[create water - 16 gallons of water] [create water - 16 gallons of water]
Can create water from 45 feet away and can fly 50 feet, I think.
Tishe' (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON)[Endure Elements, Longstrider, Mage Armor] Monday November 7th, 2005 11:14:40 PM
(Move 40' longstrider and woodland stride)
Never before has Tishe' walked over the Sargrass Plains in the tall sargrass. Around the outskirts of Rattledam and Hook City, the grass is lower, and everywhere else, she rode in a traders ship above the 'grass.
As the pack moves through the thick grasses, the brown-haired young woman grimaces ruefully as sees she made a mistake this morning. She did not need the 'longstrider' spell since she can move through the 'grass with little impairment. "It would have been better to use the spell on Jake or Trellus," she tells the horned toad in the satchel at her side. "You have a point, but what good is smarts or sense if I don't use them?"
Used Pearl of Power 1 charge Rod (extend) 3 charges
Trellus (Freedom of Movement) Tuesday November 8th, 2005 8:41:15 PM
[Trellus speed through the grass is 20' for 80 minutes - then its halved]
Trellus finds the grass doesn't slow him down nearly as much any more.
"Flea, ride with Mac," he calls. The blond man thinks Ulgren and Jake are now slowest. But since Jake is out of his armor, the group is moving twice as fast as before. "Everyone stay together," the cleric counsels.
Just a bit more (DM MikeK) Tuesday November 8th, 2005 8:57:04 PM
Gilan dumps a few dozen gallons of water on two of the rapke. As soon as the liquid appears in the air, the druid can feel a tension ripple through the Grass.
The two soaked rapke stop in confusion. The neighboring rapke and bounders also stop, instinctively turning toward a water source. Moments later, the ground around the two rapke literally bubbles as thousands of insects emerge from the surface, seeking water. As Gilan races toward the Bloodpack, he hears the frantic, pained cries of the rapke as they struggle to fight off both the insects and there own kind. He has succeeded in temporarily halting the advance.
A short time later, Gilan is back with the Bloodpack. They are moving better, but still slowly. After 80 minutes, Trellus' spell wears off, and the heroes are slowed even more. The sounds of the rapke close. It is becoming evident that the Bloodpack needs another half hour of time.
Just before everyone enters another round of planning, a peculiar humming chant is heard. For some of the Bloodpack, the sound evokes memories of another place in the Grass, and another line of Rapke. Suddenly they appear.
Manfri, clearly running from the Hunters as well. They don't even stop stride but take one look at each adventurer and grab a hand. The small black men look more like children are babbling away at you and each other in their own, unique language. An older Manfri in the lead barks an order. Chastised, the rest of the Manfri begin moving again, deftly weaving paths through the Grass.
The small hands pull The Bloodpack along, finding ways through the Grass that appear obvious, even though every one of the group knows they couldn't have found them before. With increased speed, the Bloodpack and the Manfri make for the rocks.
Ulgren : AC 19 Hps 33 Mage Armour (extended) Tuesday November 8th, 2005 9:55:19 PM
Ulgren looks at the Manfri with awe remembering the stories that the traders told on long nights standing watch. Ulgren instinctively pulls his hand back from the first outstreched hand but relaxes after seeing the rest of teh pack accept the offered help. The drow looks around at the quickness of pace and mutters, "Wow."
Grymash (enlarge, fly) d20+2=18 d20+5=22 d20+10=11 Tuesday November 8th, 2005 10:19:30 PM
Grymash rather enjoyed the flying. He thought of himself flying with Grand Maw. Her fangs so shiny and pretty. Could tear Gry in two, she could. He misses her so. When they land, he tries his best to watch for rapke and protect his pack from environmental dangers as well.
"Ohhh, dat be manfri!"
(Spot 18, Listen 22, Survival 11, dang. His movement is 40. halved is 20.)
Tishe' (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON)[Endure Elements, Longstrider, Mage Armor] Tuesday November 8th, 2005 11:21:25 PM
(Move 40' longstrider and woodland stride)
The young woman pulls at her ponytail in worry, they are still not going to make it. Until the humming starts, the 'grass parts, and the Manfri meet the Bloodpack. Startled, Tishe' doesn't know what to do as to dark children take her hands and lead her through the grass.
The spellweaver understands what is going on when the party picks up speed. The Manfri are slowing down thier own escape in order to help the Bloodpack! She looks down with new found fondness for the hearty small ones about her and sends the eldest a heart-touch. "The Land, My Life", she says in thanks.
And then her whole mind is on hurrying to the rocks and a defensible place to fight.
Used Pearl of Power 1 charge Rod (extend) 3 charges
Trellus [post by SteveK] Tuesday November 8th, 2005 11:26:09 PM
"Many Shadows", Trellus welcomes the Eldest, "we're going to need to be together for that hunting pack of Rapke."
Knowing Ulgren, Mac, and Tishe' have not met any of the Manfri with the 'pack before, the blonde man gives some advice. "These Manfri are some shady dudes, and we've helped each other out before. Take thier hands and we'll get to the rocks before the rapke now. "
Flea (Bardic Music) d20+11=23 Wednesday November 9th, 2005 12:25:37 AM
From her position on Mac's shoulder Flea sees the manfri emerge from the grass. She had heard about Bloodpack's first encounter with the Manfri and the ritual that had occurred at the rocks, but she had not believed it. Even after fighting side by side with the manfri against the baron's men when they had tried to stop the hatching of the drake, it had just sounded like one of Jake's far-fetched tales...
"Grab her hand! Run with her!" the gnome shouts to Mac. Flea listens to the strange noise the dark people are making. The gnome's heart beats nervously. She had only really told Tishe' about her secret passion. Now the whole pack will know.
Flea starts to weave a poem of courage through the chanting of the manfri.*
*Bardic Music (Inspire Courage)+1 morale bonus on saving throws vs charm and fear affects and +1 bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. Effect lasts for as long as the ally hears the singing and 5 rounds thereafter. (P. 29 PHB)
Gilan[endure elements, longstrider] : Ciaran[endure elements, longstrider, greatger magic fang] Wednesday November 9th, 2005 1:14:10 AM
Gilan comes buzzing back in just as the Manfri arrive and the real race begins. He slips back into his human form at a run with the rest and right beside Trellus, smiling. "I bought us some time back there but as you can hear...it was not much." He looks to the rest and then shrugs his shoulders, controling his breathing as he runs. "A large hunting group with Barons...chasing the Manfri as usual through the grass...tried to slow them down enough to give them a chanc to escape as well." He continues his run keeping up rather well with the rest.
[listen 12 and spot 24] [move 40 feet and woodland stride]
Jake Wednesday November 9th, 2005 12:21:53 PM
Jake feels like picking up one of the ltitle guys and giving him a good hug, chuckling to himself as he runs along. Or drinking with one... he wonders how well they could hold their liquor. "Shady Sailing ahead, guys, let's weave!" He follows, confident now that they'll get ahead of the rapke. And looking forward to getting to know the manfri better.
Mac Wednesday November 9th, 2005 3:29:45 PM
"Got it Flea! Thank you!"
Letting the manfri lead, Mac concentrates on keeping pace and sure hoof-falls.
Anuk (woodland stride) Wednesday November 9th, 2005 3:54:17 PM
(ooc: apologies for missing yesterday's post. DMMike: did you receive Anuk's sheet last week?)
Anuk grins at Gilan's report of the water bombing. "Shady job, Gil," he tells the druid. He pushes forward, but as time passes he becomes more and more anxious that the rapke will trap the pack in the grasses. When he sees the manfri appear he breathes a sigh of relief.
"Hang on tight, everyone...we're in good hands," he calls out as they begin to charge through the dense grass. He loses his thoughts to the songs of the manfri and Flea and feels himself becoming a part of the land he is sworn to protect. Aware of little else beyond the music and the need to press forward, he feels as if he travels almost effortlessly through the forest of grassblades.
The great race. (Sub-DM Jim) Wednesday November 9th, 2005 8:37:26 PM
The Manfri, holding hands, with the Bloodpack in tow move ever forwards to a place unknown as of yet by the pack. The oldest of the Manfri says nothing as you all race headlong through the grass. You notice that you are making good time and just keeping ahead of the rapke hunting pack. Wherever your are heading it us sure to be just minutes before the rapke catch up to you.
Ulgren and Mac are reassured of the intentions of the little men and women that have grabed their hands. The parting grass is a new wonder to actually the whole group as the original packers have not made this run before with the Manfri, but some have heard rumors to the connection with the land.
Tishe' initiates a heart-touch with the whole group of Manfri and all of the pack is soon on the receiveing end of thanks from all the racing Manfri in turn. It is really kind of overwhelming to feel that many people touch your hearts at once but also it is peaceful as well.
Much to everyones' surprise you find that Flea is soon singing a song along with the rythmic chants that seem to issue from the Manfri. Anyone paying attention will notice that the song is actually coming from a series of grass whistles that are sewn into what little clothing the Manfri wear. It seems that air seems to pass through these little whistles as the Manfri move and you figure it might be magic that causes this.
This is JimW, I play Gilan, and I will be taking over for MikeK for the next 3 - 4 days till he gets back.
Tishe' (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON)[Endure Elements, Longstrider, Mage Armor] Wednesday November 9th, 2005 10:46:30 PM
The multiple heart-touches of these people are nearly overwhelming in joyful wonder to the small woman with a brown ponytail. Always before, she had been the one on the outside, the one who didn't fit in. And now there are eight other people who are closer to her than her sisters, running with a pack of tiny men who are so close to the Wold Mother that surrounds and protects and supports them all. No matter that there are carnivorous animals with evil Barons close behind; Tishe' has never felt so much like she belonged.
Used Pearl of Power 1 charge Rod (extend) 3 charges
Trellus [post by SteveK] Wednesday November 9th, 2005 10:49:57 PM
The blond man's face turns grim at the mention of the Barons. "Beating White Hands!", he spits vehemently. "We get to those rocks, and we can weave them a black eye. And more."
The heart-touches lighten his worries for a bit, but then, always thinking, comes another one. Ulgren can't feel these heart-touches unless he's initiated into the First Circle. That is going to have to be rectified.
Gilan[endure elements, longstrider] : Ciaran[endure elements, longstrider, greatger magic fang] Thursday November 10th, 2005 1:16:24 AM
The heart-touch is enough to throw Gilan off his stride for a couple of seconds and then he just smiles as he runs.
At Trellus's announcement his face goes back to all business. "I believe this is the group that was being chased...so that is something." He continues to try and keep his breathing normal as he races along lost in thought for a few seconds again. "We will have little time to prepare but wherever we are going we will need to prepare that is for sure...the rocks will help...maybe." He silently goes through all of his remaining spells and knows that he has a few nice ones that will help out.
[listen 12 and spot 24] [move 40 feet and woodland stride]
Jake Thursday November 10th, 2005 2:31:06 PM
This whole heart thing...well, it's nice, but to Jake it's just too weirdly magical, and slightly too fuzzy-wuzzy-huggy-wuggy for his macho chauvinism to get used to or use back. Still, he has to admit he's grateful the little Manfri are here. As they're going along, he chooses one nearby and tells him, "We're the Bloodpack, do you know about us?"
Mac Thursday November 10th, 2005 3:43:43 PM Whoa...
Anuk Thursday November 10th, 2005 4:50:07 PM
Anuk continues his run through the grasses, enjoying the songs and the heart touch despite the impending danger. He continues forward, just one foot after the other...
Flea (Bardic Music) Thursday November 10th, 2005 5:45:01 PM
Flea hangs on to Mac and continues her song as the plains rush by in a blur.
*Bardic Music (Inspire Courage)+1 morale bonus on saving throws vs charm and fear affects and +1 bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. Effect lasts for as long as the ally hears the singing and 5 rounds thereafter. (P. 29 PHB)
Ulgren AC 19 Hps 33 Mage Armour (Extended) Thursday November 10th, 2005 5:47:52 PM
Ulgren runs taking hazardous looks over his shoulder to try and see where they have been. The drow mentally goes over his current spell list and wonders if he should mention that currently fire damage is all he currently knows.
The Kall'a'tek. (Sub - DM Jim) Thursday November 10th, 2005 9:24:30 PM
The Manfris' pace slow as you break into a large clearing. A circular bowl of sand really about 100 feet in diameter, that has a rock mound near the far side of it. You notice that as the Manfri that are with you enter into the bowl shaped area they begin to glow as if surrounded by white fire, though fainter.
As the Bloodpack step into the sand you notice that Trellus, Grymash, Gilan, Anuk and Jake are surrounded by the same sort of white flames...an aura really. These five members of the Bloodpack realize that they have just step into the battle grounds where the Manfri and Barons hold their great battles. Some may remember this happening once before as they battled rapke and barons in maybe this exact bowl of sand (wisdom DC 8 to remember).
As you look around you notice that there are a number of grass made totems around the bowl and some symbols painted upon the rocks in front of you. Mac, Flea, Ulgren and Tishe' feel the weight of a decision resting on their shoulders as they feel the need to decide to fight with the Manfri...against the Manfri...or just flee from the area as fast as possible.
As all of this sinks in the grasses around you seem to rattle lightly as an older Manfri steps out of the grass, to appear behind you. More Manfri appear upon the rocks that you had been racing towards, coming out of the area by the hundreds to stand upon the rocks. The ancient Manfri steps before you and eyes the grass critically as he sighs and then turns serious eyes to the Bloodpack. He looks to the only three Manfri that seem to be standing on the sand with you at this time..it appears they will be fighting as well, but they appear hurt. Time seems to slow as finally the ancient Manfri opens his mouth a speaks in a voice filled with authority and wisdom.
"You ran with ours, and you have performed in the Kall'a'tek once before. I fear you are bound to us," he tells the five Bloodpackers who display the white auras. Turning to the other four, he says, "You choose to stand with them or not. Few got back and the band of Dekteth seems to be greater than we have seen in many seasons. Your help could be what turns the ceremony. However you are not of the people and are not bound by our laws or magic. Should you leave now you will make it home safe, but whatever your choice the time of choosing is now. There is no shame in fleeing from death, we would flee if we could but the Kall'a'tek once enacted will not allow that choice."
The weight settles even heavier on Mac, Flea, Ulgren and Tishe' as the ancient Manfri stops speaking and takes his place on the rocks with the other Manfri that will not fight. Jake, Trellus, Anuk, Grymash and Gilan feel a different weight settle upon them as they know the price of failure in the ceremony and the price the Manfri will pay too. You hear the distant rattle of grass as a large number of somethings pass through it. You know that time is short as the rapke and Barons approach to start the ceremony in ernest.
Chooseing to fight with the Manfri will surround you with a white fiery aura. Choosing to fight with the Barons will surround you with a black aura. If you should choose to flee the ring then you may.
Trellus (post by SteveK) d20+4=22 3d8(7+6+3)+3=19 3d8(7+3+1)+3=14 3d8(7+8+3)+3=21 Thursday November 10th, 2005 10:38:07 PM
Yes, the Kall'a'tek is very familiar to Trellus (Wisdom; 22), and as he walks onto the dark sands, he is surrounded by a white light. He looks at the pitifully few Manfri who are also glowing and know that if the others choose not to, the battle may go poorly for the plains.
He adjusts his armor and shield and takes stock of the situation.
"We've got a little time to prepare, so let's get ready. Grymash and Jake take the front line. Anuk flank Jake to the rear left and I'm behind and to the right. Gilan, you're in the middle to use your magics."
Looking at the other four, he tries to explain quickly. "This is a magic arena. You have to fight with us, against us, or run away." Trellus has no worries that the others will fight against their own 'pack, but he waits until thier auras appear before adding them to the battle line. "Mac in front, Tishe' and Ulgren with Gilan, Flea look for your flanks."
He turns to the Manfri and pulls out a wand, tapping each to heal thier wounds. "Fill in with our line to beat back the first attack, and then do what you do best."
[Cure Serious Wound 19, 14, 21]
Mac Thursday November 10th, 2005 11:09:10 PM "I stand with the Bloodpack, and they stand with you. The only thing I ask is: What is Kall'a'tek?
OOC: Like there was any chance he'd leave, or side with the barons!
Tishe Thursday November 10th, 2005 11:31:56 PM
Fight against the Bloodpack? Against the Manfri who helped them? FOR the Barons???
Never!
Tishe' is surrounded by a white aura as, head high, she moves to stand with Gilan and the Bloodpack.
Grymash Friday November 11th, 2005 2:13:47 AM "Bring it. Gry's axe no get da blood it need from da last battle. Gry axe be uh thirsty for da blood. Gry tooo!! Bring it!! He draws his great double axe from the largest opening of his magical quiver.
Anuk d20+2=17 Friday November 11th, 2005 10:28:01 AM
"This is where we earned our name," Anuk tells the others as he nocks an arrow and takes up his position near Jake. A grim look replaces his usual smile. "'Bloodpack'...it's going to be a messy fight."
Flea d20+5=19 d8+1=8 d8+1=8 d8+1=2 Friday November 11th, 2005 11:55:32 AM
Flea slides down from Mac's back, and gives the giant 'taur a quick squeeze 'round the knees. "Thanks Mac. I wouldn't have been able to keep up..." she leaves the rest hanging in the air.
By way of answer the the question posed by the ancient Manfri, Flea raises her voice even louder in rhythmic oration, (Perform=19)
Avenging fall the swift swords of Rattledam, On those that betray the circle of life! Fall, life-blood from heart wounds deep, The Bloodpack wade into the strife!
Flea draws two wands fom where they were tucked in her belt. Sliding up behind the injured manfri, she taps each one. (CLW for 8, 8, and 2 pts dmg each).
DM Sanity Info:
Right hand holds wand of Magic Missile(7th level) 50 charges Left hand holds wand of CLW 50 charges (3 used)
*Bardic Music (Inspire Courage)+1 morale bonus on saving throws vs charm and fear affects and +1 bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. Effect lasts for as long as the ally hears the singing and 5 rounds thereafter. (P. 29 PHB)
Jake Friday November 11th, 2005 12:58:36 PM
Jake is glad they have time. Enough time to put on his armor, he hopes. "Anuk, quick, help me with this..." (Jake will start putting on his armor. Hopefully, he has enough time to do it, with someone else's help he can cut the time down a bit...) "That's a great rhyme there, Flea," Jake grins at her. Better than his little battle quips.
Gilan[endure elements, longstrider, barkskin] : Ciaran[endure elements, longstrider, greatger magic fang] Friday November 11th, 2005 4:06:45 PM
Gilan looks to the rest of the group, remembering the last time they had done this. It had not been a fun experience really but as stated it had gotten them thier name...Bloodpack. Now those not already initiated were going to get bloody as well. "You four have the choice...we have already done this once and our choice was made then...we cannot change that."
Looking to the grass that is moving he casts a simple spell upon himself as he takes a place near the middle of the group. "I have more uses of barkskin for those that may need it...give me an idea of who is in need and I will weave during the battle." His smile cannot be stopped as he picks up a handful of sand and lets it slip through his fingers.
Tishe' Friday November 11th, 2005 10:33:56 PM
"With barkskin a natural armor spell, it will do lttle good for me and, so I believe, for Mac." Tishe' touches an amulet at her neck to explain why her skin is already naturally armored. "Flea and Grymash and perhaps Anuk?"
"How much time do we have before the fighting starts?" she asks her fellow druid, "I have several short duration spells and don't want to waste the spinning."
Trellus [post by SteveK] Friday November 11th, 2005 10:35:56 PM
[ooc: sorry about posting before the DM, but this is my only possible time today]
After the Manfri are seen to, Trellus further prepares by casting Magic Vestment on his shield (+2 enhancemet bonus)
Ulgren : AC 19 Hps 33 Mage Armour(extended) Friday November 11th, 2005 11:54:01 PM
Ulgren listens to the elder Manfri and nods at his companions words as they chime in to fight alongside each other. Ulgren reaches down and grabs a handful of sand, rubs his palms together and turns to face the Bloodpack, "I feel as though my thread has already been woven with yours, and if this is the spot thats picked for it to be cut I can think of no finer group of people to stand with." Ulgren steps forward and stands with his companions. Ulgren says little else instead drawing his Rod of Extend and casting Enlarge Person on Grymash and then Mac. Ulgren places his rod back into its pocket and slides two gold coins into his gloved right palm. "I have never been a fight such as this but do not rush them until after I have cast haste, I have but one casting today!"
Mac Saturday November 12th, 2005 6:44:37 PM
"If there are some Manfri who are here to observe, then I have some things that I would like to leave in their care for the duration of the fight..."
The taur then goes about setting down his backpack and Galea's caddy just outside the circle.
Kall'a'tek. (Sub - DM Jim) Sunday November 13th, 2005 9:01:01 PM
The ancient Manfri takes the small cat and caddy from Mac with a somber look. "If you lose than she will most likely not survive...we all will have forfeited our lives this day." He turns to watch the grass further from his spot on the rock with the others that came to watch.
The three Manfri that made it with you smile slightly and give nods for the healing. They seem ready to fight as ever and seem almost ghostly surrounded in thier white auras.
The rest of the pack cast spells to ready themselves for the fight that in inevitable now. Places are taken and battle orders are given, as each member knows where they will fit in best.
The grass parts in several places and rapke and riders come out upon the sand. Some are riding and the rest are just lone rapke that bite and snap at the air. As the pack and Manfri are surrounded by a white aura, the rapke and barons are surrounded by a black fiery like aura.
Each group eyes each other and you notice that their are more rapke and barons that did not join in the fight. They sit outside the sand area and seem to be watching the fight. You all sense that no matter what happens those that have not entered the sand will not join in the fight.
Then the time is suddenly upon you as you measure each other from the hundred yards that separate you. There will be no talk and the battle will be to the death.
Flea (AC 19, 53 HP, Bardic Music d20+13=32 d20+12=22 4d4(3+3+3+4)+1=14 Sunday November 13th, 2005 10:57:12 PM
No more will you wander the grass fields of this wold, Your journey will end in darkness, your soul dead and cold!
Flea chants, as she scans the advancing enemy searching out one who might be bigger than the others or with some adornment that signifies a position of leadership. (Search=32) Flea will utter a word of magic and trigger the wand held in her right hand (UMD=22)sending the enerring missiles at her target. (14 pts. dmg)
DM Sanity Info:
Right hand holds wand of Magic Missile(7th level) 50 charges (1 used) Left hand holds wand of CLW 50 charges (3 used)
*Bardic Music (Inspire Courage)+1 morale bonus on saving throws vs charm and fear affects and +1 bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. Effect lasts for as long as the ally hears the singing and 5 rounds thereafter. (P. 29 PHB)
Trellus (AC 23 HP 67/67) [Magic Vestment, Bless] Sunday November 13th, 2005 11:16:17 PM
The time comes, now!
"Get shuttlecocked, Dudes. Keep together and we can help each other!"
"Domi help us!", Trellus implores, and the protection of Domi affects all within the arena.
Prayer - +1 luck bonus to attack, damage, save for allies; -1 attack, damage, save for foes [8 rounds]
Spells Prepared: 0 - Create Water (x2), Detect Magic (x2), Detect Poison, Read Magic 1 -- Endure Elements (x2), Bless, Doom, Prot from Evil, Remove Fear 2 -- Hold Person, Owls Wisdom, Spiritual Weapon (x2) 3 - Dispel Magic, Remove Disease, Prayer*, Searing Light 4 -- Air Walk, Freedom of Movement, Summon Monster IV
Tishe' (AC 23 HP 53/53) (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON)[Endure Elements, Longstrider, Mage Armor, Shiled, Bardic Courage, Prayer] Sunday November 13th, 2005 11:27:48 PM
The plain-faced woman hears Trellus shout and looks across the black sand arena. A hundred feet away she gets her first look at a live rapke. Oh. My.
It looks far enough away to get a little more protection, she thinks, and Tishe' weaves herself a magical shield.
Used Pearl of Power 1 charge Rod (extend) 3 charges
Mac - huge Monday November 14th, 2005 3:46:58 PM
The taur smiles at the elder manfri and nods, but says nothing.
As he walks over towards his frontline, he pauses by the members of the pack providing magical support and asks, "If I may request the casting of a Bull's Strength and, whilst a Barkskin might not help me much, a Cat's Grace would be beneficial and greatly appreciated - particularly if they decide to charge with the rapke.
Anuk Monday November 14th, 2005 3:56:19 PM
As the rapke near, Anuk finishes helping Jake into his armor and then steels himself for the coming battle.
He reminds Flea, Ulgren, Mac, and Tishe', "Beware their cry...focus past it if you can..."
Gilan[endure elements, longstrider, barkskin] : Ciaran[endure elements, longstrider, greatger magic fang] Monday November 14th, 2005 6:09:06 PM
Gilan moves to stand by Grymash for a few seconds, chanting as he moves. When he reaches Gry he lays a hand upon his arm, sending a spell into his body. Gry's body hardens under the spell as if it is covered in a layer of wood. "That should help some if you rage Gry." He then moves back, pulling his club and shield as he does.
A simple statement and maybe a battle oath falls from his lips as he loosens himself for the battle. "The land...my life...as it has always been."
Welcome back MikeK or am I still needed in the drivers seat?
Ulgren : AC 20 Hps 33 Mage Armour(extended), Haste Monday November 14th, 2005 7:34:19 PM
Ulgren nods his head at Trellus' mention of the Rapke scream and does his best to still his beating heart. The Rapke's sudden emergence from the grass sends a tingle down the drows back. Ulgren raises his left hand upwards in a practiced manner and deftly casts haste on all packmates within 55 feet, "Use it well its the only one I have!" Ulgren watches looking for an obvious leader.
Haste: 1 extra attack if full round attack used, +1 to attack, +1 dodge to AC, +1 to reflex saves, speed increase 30 feet to a maximum of doubling a persons movement.(7 rounds)
Grymash (ac26, hp94, haste1, barkskin, prayer, bulls strength, inspire courage) Monday November 14th, 2005 9:22:55 PM
Grymash looks back at Gilan and Ulgren with wild eyes and a crooked toothy grin, which is all you can see in the shadow of his spiked and horned helmet, and says, "Tanks, dat all Gry gonna need!"
Grymash begins to pace quickly back and forth, like a caged animal. Rage building only slightly with each step. He grunts out words in orc. Some of you cant understand what the half-orc says but you get the feeling it must be, THESE SUN-BAKED PIGGIES ARE MEAT FOR THE POT!" He also seems to grow in bulk just a bit with each word.
(Cast Bulls Strength. +4 enhancement bonus to strength for 3 minutes.)
Grymash looks back at his pack again. With a growl, Grymash mutters, "Gry ready for da BIG magik, if yooz gots it!"
Tishe' (AC 24 HP 53/53) (-1 CON) and Wart (-1 CON)[Endure Elements, Longstrider, Mage Armor, Shield, Bardic Courage, Prayer, Haste] Monday November 14th, 2005 11:18:45 PM
[OOC: If there is time before the battle, Tishe' will cast Cat's Grace on Mac, and offer to cast Mage Armor on anyone who could use it (scroll).]
Tishe' thinks of her crossbow, the weapon which she has practiced long hours to hone her speed and accuracy. However, she knows that she can better help her pack by weaving divine and arcane magics.
"The Land, My Life", she echoes Gilan. "I will be weaving many animals out of magic to come and aid us", she tells Ulgren, "that is my pick."
Endure Elements, extend, shared Wart [38 hours] Longstrider [60 minutes] Mage Armore [8 hours] +4 AC (armor) Shield [50 rounds] +4 AC (shield), blocks magic missle Bardic Courage (from Flea) +1 attack and save fear (morale) Prayer (from Trellus) +1 all rolls (luck) Haste: (from Ulgren) 1 extra attack if full round attack used, +1 attack, AC (dodge), reflex, +30 speed. (14 Rounds)
Druidic: 0: create water*, detect magic, mending*, know direction 1: Endure Elements*, Faerie Fire, Longstrider* 2: cats grace, hold animal
Used Pearl of Power 1 charge Rod (extend) 3 charges
DM MikeK Tuesday November 15th, 2005 11:14:17 AM
I'll post tonight. Still need to read up.
Jake (AC 27, hp 57/57) Tuesday November 15th, 2005 1:48:22 PM
"Hey Trell...A Baron comes home to his house and sees another guy in bed with his wife. He gets a knife out, prepared to kill himself, and his wife starts laughing. He shouts at her, 'Don't laugh, you're next!'" The others have their own methods of preparing for battle. Jake seems to as well.
Mac [AC:23, HP:84/84, Huge(15'x15', +15'), 5 AoO per round] d20+6=14 Tuesday November 15th, 2005 3:38:33 PM
Once the spellcasting is finished Mac readies his axe as he wanders up to the front rank, and begins to assess the opponents inside the circle [Spot:14].
"My land, my life."
Under the effect of: Enlarge Person, Haste, Prayer, Bardic Courage and Cat's Grace
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