DM SteveK - Pearl Overboard Friday October 21st, 2011 11:31:49 AM
Lorelai listens to the words of the heroes, but, even in Harvest's hungover state it is clear that the mermaid really doesn't care to know or understand the two-legs more. She shrugs, no more affected by the heroic story or the frustrated/angry burst by the WLAers than she was by the thought of drowning a village full of wemics.
The mermaid does show some emotion when the heroes threaten to keep the Pearl and/or speak with her father. She does become upset, but Harvest can't fathom the reason why.
Barratore's comment brings a spark of interest to Lorelai. "Yes, that is obvious. I will have to move the Pearl to where it will not be a challenge for the land-dwellers. That will keep it more safe."
Yet in the end, the heroes elect to give her the Pearl without more debate. As Gerox lets the large Pearl fall into the water, the mermaid immediately dives and picks it out of the ocean. She never resurfaces, swimming away until she is lost in the rolling surf.
....................
Artus Morindim waits a couple of seconds and then his sea-coarsened voice calls out. "I'm assuming you are finished with your helping the little lady? May I suggest we can be on our way?" The Navigator gets the barest assent, and he is off shouting orders to the sailors who jump to sails, ropes, and anchor chain. Soon enough, the SeaSprite is away!
It takes until mid-afternoon for the SeaSprite to catch up to the Fixer Fleet. Rounding a headland, a town hugs the shore, a large number of docks and warehouses proclaiming that this is a merchant town. The Fixer Fleet and Rhemoras are already at dock or anchor, and the SeaSprite has to pick a mooring a couple hundred feet from the dock. Artus takes the dinghy to meet the Harbormaster and quickly hires a floating dock and a harbor barge to make reprovisioning easier. On his return, he asks for the heroes to gather around the tiller. While an evening meal of fresh vegetables, fruits, and meat is served (and eaten), Artus talks to the group.
"Not bad, not bad on the helping the Mermaid, eh? Looks like you did good by everyone involved and didn't get killed in the process so you can't really hope for a better result. Still, I'm sure if you talk among yourselves, there are things you can do to be even better next time. Rum is not going to be a place for second chances."
He then turns the conversation to the port. "This here town is called Chessford in Common, and "Velawia" in Wemic. It is the only port town on all of Wemic Island. Most Wemics that you meet will not know how to speak Common, so unless you know Tauric, you are pretty much stuck with the taverns, Inns, and stores that have a sign written in Common outside. That's how you know they speak it inside."
"Be careful of Wemics. Townies aren't as savage as the nomads, but they are shrewd merchants. While the nomads 'count coup' by doing stupidly brave things (and he looks hard at Lemick), the Townies do it by pulling scams over on the other Noble Races."
"It's gonna take about 2 weeks before the Fleet is completely resupplied for the next stage of the voyage. You heroes have an opportunity to purchase any common goods or Taur-sized weapons from the regular stores. I'm also authorized to give each of you 200 gold pieces. There is a Catacombs Store in Chessford where you can buy magical items. Have fun and I'll see you the night before we sail."
.............
Each Hero gets 200 gp
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al d20+1=11 ; Friday October 21st, 2011 5:38:35 PM
Harvest Moon shakes her fist in silence at the eddy that marks the departure of the Mermaid Lorelai. On her face is a distinct frown of dissatisfaction.
"It is sometimes not a happy thing to help certain people," Harvest Moon remarks to no one in particular, and then hops down off of the rail. After pacing in a tight and distinctly dissatisfied circle, the half-elven girl turns a face upward. The sails billow like the fresh white caps of mushrooms. A pennant flaps its happy chatter with the wind. And Harvest Moon climbs the rigging once again to a place high above the water where she can watch the sea and the sky. Into her map book she makes notes on the character of the coastline, as the SeaSprite makes its way to the port town where the rest of the fleet awaits.
Later that evening, gathered with the other League Adventurers around the tiller, Harvest Moon crunches upon an orange carrot as Navigator Artus Morindim describes this town of Chessford, or Velawia. The crunch of the carrot comes to an abrupt halt as the Navigator so very casually mentions distributing two hundred gold pieces to each of the League Adventurers.
Two hundred. Harvest Moon is thunderstruck. So much gold. When she receives her share, Harvest Moon retreats to a corner and counts the incredible pile of coins. The hill of gold decreases as the half-elf constructs towers of five coins each. In the end, she winds up with a full forty towers arranged in neat rows. Two hundred gold! What could they expect her to buy with such tremendous wealth?
Tomorrow, she would go into town. Perhaps this ... Catacombs mentioned by Navigator Artus Morindim. Perhaps there she would find out.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Climb 11 vs DC10 for the rigging
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet Friday October 21st, 2011 7:27:46 PM
Barratore watches the last location of the mermaid for a few seconds and then as the navigator gives commands to be underway he tries to get himself out of the way. Quickly, Barratore finds himself at the stern. Perhaps an hour into putting wind into the ships sails Barratore turns away from the ship and looks out down he course they had just come.
Barratore draws his weapon and holds it in both hands horizontal to the deck and out over the rail at the stern. While he would like to rid himself of the curse with a glass of sacramental wine, here far from shore he would be able to remove the curse without possibly bestowing it upon another. So with a prayer to Imod, Barratore let's go.
The blade spins clockwise and over as it plunges towards the sea green waters, the sun catching the steel here and there and then it is gone in a silent splash lost to the great sounds of the ship and men.
Peza Friday October 21st, 2011 10:53:43 PM
Peza beams at Artus's praise of their mission for the pearl ... .. " it was a good learning experience for all of us ... afterall we never worked together before .... bunch of strangers figuring out how we fit in with each other .. "
Having observed the big minotaur sacrifice his sword to the sea .... but letting him have his moment in private .... she is pipes up after the 200 gp bonus is given " time to go shopping " as she grins ear to ear . " maybe they have a good bladesmith ashore ... maybe i'll get a dagger or something ... "
" well we have two weeks to explore ... or maybe a dwarven style party like Crag is always talking about " laughs Peza
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet Saturday October 22nd, 2011 9:21:13 AM
Barratore nods as the gold is mentioned, already the curse was lifting away and when Peza mentions Crag and a two week party, Barratore chuckles. "the idea has merit and would be a fine way for Us to learn even more about each other." he says with a wink.
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 Saturday October 22nd, 2011 8:36:46 PM
Crag ignores the rudeness of the Mermaid, instead preferring to think of the songstress before they left port. He settles into standard ship routine until they are summoned to be briefed upon the shore excursions. Afterward he will caution everyone. "remember, the difficulties we had before we left may await us here. We do not know how far the purse and/or influence of the parties responsible may extend. They may have hired people to harass us, kill us, or get us arrested, and sent them on the Rhemoras. We should try and stay in at least pairs, and mind our tempers." looking at Brom and Barratore as he finishes.
Crag overhears Peza, and chimes in. "200 gp may not cover a Dwarven feast in town, but you can give it a try. I think I myself might check out this catacombs. Always a good idea to have a backup axe, and maybe a potion or two."
After hearing Barratore's response to Peza, Crag just rolls his eyes and walks away.
Brom (RichP); AC: 16 (T 12, FF 14, Raged 14), CMD: 18 (20 Raged); HP: 15/15 (17/17 Raged) Sunday October 23rd, 2011 10:18:44 PM
Brom doesn't care one way or another about the mermaid. It was a barter for service - the lives of the village for the pearl - no more than that. But that didn't matter, Brom was still thinking about the battle with the hell hounds. He smiles as he runs over the battle in his mind.
Brom steps up to Barratore. "I can definitely understand a bit of bad luck." He says giving a slight fist to the minotaur's shoulder. "See this . . . " pointing to his nose, "I've had my share of lumps. Had my face beaten more times than I can count . . . but" he says smiling a bit. "Things always turn around. You've got your life, new companions, and new adventures . . . things always turn around - always do." He says and walks away to leave the fighter to his thoughts.
Brom is very pleased with the mention of money. "To this catacombs and spend the money before the thieves catch the scent of our coins."
Gerox Shale Sunday October 23rd, 2011 11:32:27 PM
Gerox walks over to Barratore and asks, "Is this a minotaur custom? When you win a decisive battle, you throw your sword away? Were you sacrificing it to your Gods? Seems to be an expensive custom. Our you going to the Catacombs to purchase another one? I will tag along if you do. While I can take care of myself, gnomes are looked on as easy marks in these kinds of places and I would rather not have to kill someone. I think if I walk in your shadow, no one will even notice."
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 Monday October 24th, 2011 7:39:52 AM
"I am going to the catacombs Gerox. Or everyone going can go together."
crag grabs his gear to head off to the catacombs.
Brom (RichP); AC: 16 (T 12, FF 14, Raged 14), CMD: 18 (20 Raged); HP: 15/15 (17/17 Raged) Monday October 24th, 2011 1:58:08 PM
Add to my post. Brom has a missing front tooth and a crooked nose as if broken a few times.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet Monday October 24th, 2011 4:59:08 PM
Barratore focuses in on Brom and what he is saying, though the grinding of bone in his own ears muffles much of it. He inhales as if about to say something, but in that short pause of preparation and speaking, changes his mind and merely nods. As Brom moves away, Barratore mumbles more than says "We shall see. Bad luck? It seemed far more insidious to him than merely bad luck.
Turning back to the waves behind the ship he inhales and simply puts his mind to think of nothing. So he does not even notice Gerox until the gnome's second question and only the third registers.
"sacrificing it? No I was ridding myself of it and hopefully all that came with it. Yes I will be going to the catacombs to see about a healing potion or three friend and i would be happy to go with you. I also plan to trod off the beaten path once we arrive in port and you are welcome with me then as well"
Lemick 4-Leaf Sted/Anthony hp 9/9, ac 20/12/18 Monday October 24th, 2011 5:54:56 PM
Lemick's sits back in contiplation for the remainder of the trip unsure of how circumstances in just an instance had put in at deaths door, or 12 doors. He had let the moment of success carry his momentum as it seemed fitting with the wemics -- glory and risk. Still it was not his way of life, with such luck of a hurt free escape, worry creaps in of how bad the balancing lack of luck will be. With coins in hand, he wonders how much good luck unto others will even it out.
"I'll join the group. If even a small price of hassling us has been put on our heads, pairs may not be enough. At least three I'd say, if not more. I'll also follow along with Barratore to see these beaten paths, to help share the luck of Wardd."
Gerox Shale Monday October 24th, 2011 11:22:22 PM
Gerox just nods at the others and follows along. He tugs on Barratore's arm again and holds up his bag of gold. "Can you help me carry this. I think it weighs as much as I do. (Gerox only weighs 42 pounds, I am guessing he might be moving very slow if he tries to carry the gold too)
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al Tuesday October 25th, 2011 8:58:32 AM
Harvest Moon comes running back to the ship SeaSprite. Over her head orbits a cracked and blackened crystal which, none the less, radiates the warm light of a torch.
"It is magic!" Her face is wreathed in smiles. "Do you see this? The place called Catacombs has so many things of magic!" And she throws her arms wide to try and encompass the breadth of it all.
After she has shown each of the League Adventurers her magic ioun stone, and, after she has herself calmed, Harvest Moon approaches Barratore Steelwind.
"I saw you," she says. "I saw that you threw your sword into the sea." And, at this, she holds up to him the pouch. "I did not use all of my gold. It was given to me. So now I give it to you. Please take this. Perhaps you can now buy a better sword, Barratore Steelwind."
+++++++++++++++++++++++
OoC: Pouch contains 100gp. This is, pending approval from the DM on my Catacombs sale.
DM SteveK - Chessford Tuesday October 25th, 2011 1:23:51 PM
Minor repairs, some upgrades, and a general airing out of the SeaSprite takes up most of the first week in port. While the crew is about all this, Artus is in town dickering with Wemic merchants. Soon it is obvious that, whatever their usual bloodthirstiness at haggling, the Wemic merchants of Chessford are giving broad discounts to any member of the Fixer Fleet (which includes the SeaSprite). Even the Rhemoras are getting some discount on goods and services even if it is not as much as the Fixer Fleet ships.
Another 2 days are spent loading up with strong barrels of water and well-preserved foods, anticipating a long, long voyage. And after that, the sailors are given a rotating 48 hour shore leave to carouse the days away. While there are plenty of trinkets, good food, spirits, and services to buy in Chessford, the one normal harbor service that is in extremely short supply are 'ladies of the evening'. Maybe it is because there are no other races in Chessford other than the liontaurs...
The WLA heroes are able to purchase any normal or masterwork weapon or armor for a Small, Medium, or Large frame. They are also able to get any common good or alchemical item for 'at price'. For those that venture to the Catacombs, their first experience in the magical entranceway and magical emporium can easily take thier breath away!
The WLAers do spy Carlee and his group of 'heroes' carousing one afternoon. While the other group seems to notice the WLAers they do nothing to invite a confrontation.
............
Heroes can purchase any Small, Medium, or Large item (normal or masterwork) in the Equipment Chapter of the Pathfinder Core Book without prior approval.
Any magic purchase must go through the Catacombs and approved by DM email response before use in the campaign.
All APG conversions are via email tentative approval and must be annotated on CS prior to final approval.
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 Tuesday October 25th, 2011 4:29:47 PM
Crag follows shortly behind Harvest, and agrees with her. "Aye, i got meself one of them too. Got darkvision, but ya never know when some light will come in handy. Got meself a couple healing potions as well, for emergencies, and a backup Dwarven Waraxe. Also for emergencies. Now if me axe goes overboard, I won't have to go after it."
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 Tuesday October 25th, 2011 4:33:02 PM
Crag spends the occasional evening visiting the pub, and listening to the general bar talk in case anything of interest should come up. He will speak of the Gods when given the chance, should the situation deem it appropriate, and keep an eye out for anyone obviously in need of assistance.
Gerox Shale Tuesday October 25th, 2011 4:58:01 PM
Gerox asks if the group is going to buy a group cure light wounds wand. "If we don't then I will purchase some healing potions but otherwise I want to save my money for a large item."
Brom (RichP); AC: 16 (T 12, FF 14, Raged 14), CMD: 18 (20 Raged); HP: 15/15 (17/17 Raged) Tuesday October 25th, 2011 7:30:19 PM
OOC - i have an open ticket in the catacombs now if we are going to buy the wand.
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al d20+1=2 ; d20+1=12 ; Tuesday October 25th, 2011 8:24:53 PM
Harvest Moon spends time learning to swim. Throwing off her robe, she plunges naked into the cold water of the sea.
She had considered swimming to each of the Remora ships in the fleet to find out who is on each. But, swimming, she finds, is not so simple as it appears. At first she flounders, gulping a large mouthful of the terribly salty water of the sea. But, with determination, Harvest Moon takes to swimming well enough. She manages to go far enough from the shore to capture some of the sea plants that she had seen from the ship. With great expenditure of effort, she drags them into shore, including some very odd bulbs with extremely long tails.
While sunning herself on the shore, she considers what the others have said about magic. They seem to know so much more about it than she does. Drinks that will heal in the blink of an eye? Such at thing would be very useful. Perhaps she should have gotten one herself. But, there is no regret. Barratore Steelwind would buy a new sword, and that would be a fine thing. A fine thing indeed.
Peza d20+5=13 ; Tuesday October 25th, 2011 10:08:48 PM
Peza keeps somewhat of a low profile ....just exploring the town .....and its inhabitants .....the wonders of a new city for her to improve urban skills ..
Spotting Carlee and hid group she discreetly observes then ....inquiring about them with the locals [diplomacy check d20+5=13]
Peza will add the final 190 for the CLW wand " thats a great idea ....the way Captain Theringer and Artus have spoken about the harsh reality of what we will be up againist ... it would be a hugh asset for our group to be able use .... afterall Carlee and his band of so called heroes will be there too .... i'm sure we'll meet them again "
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet Tuesday October 25th, 2011 10:10:03 PM
Barratore accepts the coin from Harvest with a straight forward thank you. Barratore will spend some time in town away from the strictly 'common' language areas to find a tavern and shop that does not cater to non taurs.
Perhaps I will learn a bit or two about the town where the people are more themselves
Barratore will haggle for practice and purchase a new blade sized for his frame as well as a flight of five javelins. Barratore will also pick up a talisman to Waard and two bottles of purple wine if he can locate them. After speaking to a few acolytes at the temple and spending a day in prayer, Barratore retires to a private room and crafts his letter of petition to the Heart of Imod to sanction his use of blue wine in a cleansing ceremony and blessing of his battle torc of clan Starlight
Lemick 4-Leaf Sted/Anthony hp 9/9, ac 20/12/18 Tuesday October 25th, 2011 10:16:18 PM
Lemick watches the goings and comings and is quite weary of the catacombs and it's staff, though they seem friendly, the associates were not what he had expected.
Still, he is grateful the groups managed to get the supplies they wanted. Lemick replaced his missing javelin, more in defiance than thinking he will be doing any major damage with it.
Brom the Barbarian (RichP); AC: 16 (T 12, FF 14, Raged 14), CMD: 18 (20 Raged); HP: 15/15 (17/17 Raged) Tuesday October 25th, 2011 10:52:05 PM
Brom travels around the common areas of town for a while looking for merchants he thinks aren't total crooks. He picks up quite an assortment of items: a great axe; a grappling hook; 50-ft of hemp rope; 2 more torches; six javelins; a crowbar; 2 pounds of chewing tobacco; and a small cask (10 gallons) of ale. After his purchases, he heads back to the ship to locate a safe place for his goods.
For the first week, he spends a bunch of time helping the sailors load cargo onto the ship during the day and eating and drinking in the evenings. He invites the others along for meals and drinking (also to help him find his way back to the ship).
DM SteveK - Last Days in Chessford Wednesday October 26th, 2011 12:34:57 PM
Equipment is bought, magic is purchased at the Catacombs (including the coveted Wand of Cure Light Wounds), and carousing is caroused. All occur without anything out of the ordinary.
Harvest's naked swimming doesn't elicit anything more than an occasional hoot from a sailor. The liontaurs don't seem to care about unclothed half-elves, and her small malnourished body is usually overlooked as a child swimming and not a grown woman.
Crag spends a great deal of time in taverns, listening to the talk and putting in his 2 cents. He finds that while the Fixer Fleet is, well, mostly made up of Fixers and so have a strong affinity to Alemi, the sailors and Rhemora crews are a sprinkling of many different cultures that live by the sea, and devout followers of Alemi are actually in the minority. Most of them acknowledge all the gods of the Wold depending on what they are doing at any particular moment. Exhortations at the dice games almost exclusively revolve around Wardd or Ffloy. Games of physical strength: Domi. Troubadours trying to court the few women in the area sing songs of Flower. And Panthenon is called on when a loser is required to pay up.
Peza spots Carlee and his team, and asks a local liontaur merchant about them. Carlee seems to be keeping his team lawabiding if a little rowdy, but nothing out of the ordinary. They have been purchasing great volumes of preserved foods and coils of wemic-made ropes.
Barratore wanders away from the international area of Chessford until there are only Wemic in the area. They openly stare but are not hostile, obviously very few minotaurs are in town, even though Minotaur Island is only a day's sail away. A small shrine is a welcome site, and Barratore enters to see a very, very old minotaur sitting in front of a statue of Imod. "Come and well come", he wheezes to the young Barratore, "I have been expecting you." Barratorre immediately recognizes a Heart of Imod. Through continued visits, the Heart agrees to sell 2 skins of deep purple wine to the young minotaur, and to perform a rite of purification with the sacred Blue Wine. He will not give any to Barratore. In the courtyard before the statue of Imod, Barratorre is stripped of everything but his pride, honor, and weapons. The Heart of Imod chants in a surprisingly deep voice and slowly pours an entire skin of Blue Wine over the young warrior's head. "You are cleansed and one with our ancestors who stood proud on the first day with Imod. His hand is your hand, his heart is your heart, his head is your head, so long as you live with honor." (ooc: Barratore gains +1 attack, save, skill checks for 1hour)]
...............
As the WLAers get ready to sail with the fleet, they find that Leapold is no longer with them. Artus explains that one of the Fixers on the Commodore's ship has taken Leapold to mentor. He will still be going to Rum to fulfill his Geas, but now with the Fixers themselves.
.............
It is the night before sailing from the last known land near the Elennian Penninsula. Tomorrow, the Fixer Fleet will be moving to waters only travelled by the heartiest explorers. The sailors are notably quieter this night...
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al Wednesday October 26th, 2011 3:04:47 PM
"Do you think," Harvest Moon asks of Navigator Artus Morindim one evening at the time of meals, "do you think that we will be allowed to have gardens when we arrive in Rum?"
Before departure, Harvest Moon spends a great deal of her free time hunting the seeds of plants, both flowering and those that bear food. Some seeds, she folds into slips of paper, marking on the outside to what plant the seeds belong. For some plants seeds are not sufficient. From the vines of grapes, she collects cuttings. It would be nice to have sweet fruit some day in Rum.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet Wednesday October 26th, 2011 5:40:21 PM
Barratore drops to his knees and prostrates himself before the Heart of Imod. The words of the elder Minotaur flow over him, flow through him and fill him to the bursting point. Adrenaline surges, his mind swims and the feeling of power and invicbility seem to be near the point of overwhelming his very being. He was Barratore Steelwind, of the Starlight clan, warrior born, the strongest of his race and none would be able to stand against his rightous fury. Barratore stands as the elder concludes the rites and draws his weapon aloft to the heavens. For a moment he stands weapon high, sunlight dancing down the length. A cloud intersects the sun and the moment passes. Barratore turns and bows And then departs for the Sea Sprite.
Soon the ship is underway, to others the warriors mood is obviously much improved. A smile is upon his face and upon hearing of possible danger ahead his retort is thunderous "Let what may come and we shall send it into the deep!". Barratore's hand collides with the nearest rail in emphasis
Peza Wednesday October 26th, 2011 9:29:06 PM
Peza journeys back to the Seasprite ... as the sun sets she gazes back on the island of the Liontaurs ..." wow we have come so far ... i never thought i would ever leave Plateau city .... so just read stories of faraway places ... but know with WLA and my new friends .... we get to visit all these exoctic places nd cultures ... i'm glad i decided to do this "
With a look at Barratore " you look happy agian ....i'm glad for you "
Gerox Shale Wednesday October 26th, 2011 11:26:59 PM
Gerox passes the days quietly. He is feeling out of place and out of sorts in the Wemic town. It is bad enough when most people tower over him but these Wemics make him feel like an insect must feel before it is swatted.
Once the ship is back underway, he is happy again. He climbs the rat lines to his place in the crows nest and starts counting ships and watching where they are sailing. He sighs in relief with the swaying and thinks, "I will finally be able to sleep again."
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 Thursday October 27th, 2011 9:52:04 AM
Crag quietly watches the land pull away from the ship and fade into the distance. "Alright, that's that. Rum awaits." He mumbles to himself as he watches his companions for a few minutes.
He then turns his attention to the fleet to see if all the same ships that pulled into port are leaving. "Perhaps some stayed behind, perhaps some were replaced by others." He thinks to himself.
(OOC: I will adjust my CS for the traits in the next couple days.)
DM SteveK - On the Open Seas Thursday October 27th, 2011 12:20:24 PM
It is a slightly smaller company of heroes that make for open waters on the SeaSprite. Barratore and Brom, Peza and Harvest, Crag and Lemick and Gerox are the VIP passengers with Artus Morindim navigating the sleek ketch.
A day out of Chessford, and the Fixer Fleet has shaken out the last of thier land legs and is keeping fairly good station as they plow steadily through the seas westward. The SeaSprite again pulls starboard flanker duty. She can see most of the ships in the fleet save the vanguard, port flanker and aft guard. Signals from the lookouts are sent to the flagship and from there, signals go to all ships (and Rhemoras) in the Fixer Fleet. The flags out now say "West to Rum!"
A month into the voyage, a new set of flag signals rapidly come up on the Flagship. "Storm, Prepare." Away to the south, it looks like dusk is approaching... fast.
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al Thursday October 27th, 2011 2:18:57 PM
The sky and the sea are like a great creature that bears down upon them. Harvest Moon is momentarily frozen by the sight. It is majestic and awesome at the same time as it is terrible and frightening. When she does break from her paralysis, Harvest Moon moves with all speed.
As fast as she can, Harvest Moon dashes below. Her seeds and plants, her books and maps, everything that might come to harm from water, she places quickly into the bags that she purchased for just this reason. Then, with equal speed, Harvest Moon rushes back to the deck. On her return, however, she has, over her shoulder, the coil of rope.
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 Thursday October 27th, 2011 3:19:34 PM
Crag just shakes his head at the call of storm, followed by a string of mumbling to himself as he goes about stowing his gear. He goes below decks, and lashes down all of his gear. He then does his best to make sure he will be secure as well, and not be bounced all over the inside of the ship.
Crag will then return topside to watch as the storm and the dusk close in. Once the storm is close, he will return below decks to hang on, and wait it out, not wanting to get in the way of the sailors.
Lemick 4-Leaf Sted/Anthony hp 9/9, ac 20/12/18 Thursday October 27th, 2011 9:27:38 PM
Lemick is eager to set off, avoiding the last call of wemic ale before departure. He passes his days in quiet meditation, watching the waves and any coast line that appears; he dreams of the adventure at the end of this sea journey thinking he'd rather hike back than ever get on a boat this long again.
--- As the crew readies the ship, Lemick stays in his sitting position near the front of the ship, knowing his gear is secure underneath. He listens for specific orders from the captain or crew; topside or below torn between the need to see and the fear of seeing.
"It's coming fast, so will depart fast I hope. How long do you think before it's past us?" he attempts to ask his comrads and a passing crewmember.
Peza Thursday October 27th, 2011 10:26:30 PM
Peza enjoys the cruise .... but as the days go by she gets a little bored .... the ocean is endless ....the horizen is never reached .... but the veiw is magnificent .... but she decides to get some work in .... she digs out the canvas she bought back in southport .. starts to craft a new pair of boots ...with patience they start to take shape .... her only indecision so far is what color to dye them ..... maybe blue like the ocean or yellow like the sun ...
As word of the coming storm .... she starts to walk the deck ... " first time aboard a ship ... and now my first storm at sea ..... i just hope Crag doesnt puke his guts out .... " she teases the dwarf ;-)
Brom the Barbarian (RichP); AC: 16 (T 12, FF 14, Raged 14), CMD: 18 (20 Raged); HP: 15/15 (17/17 Raged) Thursday October 27th, 2011 11:20:10 PM
Brom, as many of the other, enjoys the voyage. He does watch the crew as they work hoping to pick up some little bit of how a ship works.
At mention of a storm, the mood of the ship changes and Brom quickly moves into the hold to check that his gear is properly secure. Once he is sure he has secured his gear, Brom heads back to the top. He finds the guy running the crew. "I don't know much about sailing, but if you need something pushed, pulled, or moved - point me that way."
Gerox Shale Friday October 28th, 2011 9:01:18 AM
Gerox enjoys the voyage and when he isn't on watch can often be found at the stern of the boat with a line in the water. Whatever he catches, he will bring to the galley hoping the fresh fish will help improve the stew that is always served.
When the storm approaches, he will help as best he can bring in the sail, typically letting the others haul it in but helps to tie it in place. When he goes down to the deck, he will mention to his comrades that if they are going to stay on deck, they need to get a life line on. While they were starting to get their sea legs, they were ready for the pitching of a storm.
He then asks the Captain if he is wanted aloft to stay on watch. His gnomish eyes are better than most in seeing in the gloom. If he is stationed up there, he will climb back up and tie himself a life line that will hold him but which he can get quickly out of if things start breaking! (not sure what skill check I need)
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet Friday October 28th, 2011 9:32:41 AM
Barratore spends the month as he had the previous leg of the voyage, trying to stay out of the way and enduring the tight spaces of the ship. He continues his excercise routines and familiarizing himself with his new blade. His mood throughout, remains high and the gloom of any perceived past failures have seem to be completely washed away .
Barratore eyes the approaching storm and the others dashing below. Little reason to join them in that. Surely they would secure anything that need be and not simply worry about thief own belongings. Barratore remains by the tiller, here is where his strength would be best used. He needed no true skill or experience to assist or singularly hold the wheel to whatever fixed position would be required
He does tie his new blade into it's sheath
DM SteveK - Gray Sky, Gray Sea Friday October 28th, 2011 11:06:23 AM
As the black squall line approaches, the ships of the fleet erupt into frenzied activity, and the SeaSprite is no exception. Artus flashes out with orders; "furl the sails! storm sail out! cold kitchen! batten hatches! tighten the hold! tiller 2 points starboard and lash! deploy the storm lines! slickers out!" And the orders keep coming, followed with rapid "Aye, sir!" from crewmen as they scramble about.
The small halfling turns to the WLAers. "My compliments to my passengers, and I request you get any of your equipment that you don't want wet or overboard to be tied into bags or trunks and those tied to bulkheads in the passenger cabin."
"Up on the crow's nest? By Gargul's left knee man! Get your sparkly-eyed head down here with the rest of you! There ain't noone staying up there who doesn't want to drown!"
"Coming fast, aye, but I've seen storms like this last a week. I hope you don't mind eating nothing but crackers and salt water for a while!"
"Help? You give me a rotating man every hour to help hold the tiller steady, and the rest of the time you stay below and try not to throw up. Suits?"
Artus looks at the approaching storm with a weathered eye. "We got maybe 2 minutes for you to stow. Anyone topside must be tied to a rail or one of the two storm lines. Tie a rope to your waist that has 2 ends with several feet. When you move from one tied position to another you tie the second rope fast BEFORE you untie the first rope, or we'll have a funeral for you when this is over."
Just then a sailor arrives with a halfling-sized oiled canvas coat and a length of rope. Artus dons the clothing and ties a bowline around himself one-handed and then uses a fisherman's knot to tie one loose end to the aft rail in less than 20 seconds.
"Well?", he asks while piercing the heroes with a look, "what are you waiting for?"
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al d20+10=18 ; Friday October 28th, 2011 1:10:40 PM
In the knowledge that all of her belongings are secured below, Harvest Moon goes about securing herself in the manner show to them by Navigator Artus Morindim. Two ropes. It is a novel and very reasonable method of moving about. Two ropes. One of them always tied well.
Harvest Moon turns her eyes to the others, ensuring that they are all, both League Adventurers as well as the SeaSprite crew, are well secured. She watches the sea and the other ships. She watches with caution, resisting the urge to gape at the storm as it bears down upon them.
++++++++++++++++
Perception 18
Brom the Barbarian (RichP); AC: 16 (T 12, FF 14, Raged 14), CMD: 18 (20 Raged); HP: 15/15 (17/17 Raged) d20=13 ; Friday October 28th, 2011 1:28:12 PM
Brom quickly runs down to he quarters and does a quick check or gear. He then grabs his a length of rope and ties it around him. (Don't know skill for rope use so 13 is d20 roll.)
Once done he is back top side and tied off. He watches the helmsman and the fast approaching weather.
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 Friday October 28th, 2011 3:47:14 PM
Crag checks his gear to make sure it is stowed as Artus suggested, and then with apprehension, braces himself by the gear and the bulkhead to ride out the storm.
Lemick 4-Leaf Sted/Anthony hp 9/9, ac 20/12/18 Friday October 28th, 2011 4:22:45 PM
All happy and content until he hears it could last a week! "Crackers for a few days is fine, not much on the sloshing of sea water for a week." He says this factually, not being one to complain, but it can easily be see the "week" comment makes him a bit nervous.
"I'll begin below deck, and will rotate to help hold the till." Below deck, he see his supplies are already stored securely as they have been the entire trip. Still, he looks around for a pail, should the vomiting occur; he's a man of outdoors.
Gerox Shale Friday October 28th, 2011 5:42:52 PM
Being the experienced sailor, Gerox's gear is already stowed to weather the storm. He ties himself to the lines out of the way. Not sure how much he can help, he still is ready to try if called upon.
Peza Friday October 28th, 2011 10:00:19 PM
Peza's eyes grow wide as the storm approaches with blinding speed ..." wow ... and that will last a week ?"
The girl shakes her head in wonder ... but lifts her chin up as Artus assigns them a job " i'll do a an hour ...on the tiller "
She lets someone else go first ... and quickly heads down to there living section .....her stuff is already held down .... she quickly grabs a sheet of canvas and tools from her barrel and starst to work on a poncho.... it will be crude in the beginning but if the storm lasts a week it will be done quickly ... since her stime will be split between tiller duty ... sleeping and working on her poncho ...
Brom the Barbarian (RichP); AC: 16 (T 12, FF 14, Raged 14), CMD: 18 (20 Raged); HP: 15/15 (17/17 Raged) Sunday October 30th, 2011 3:02:26 PM
Brom wasn't too happy with the thought of a week long storm. But for a man who is used to at least some sort of adrenaline rush whether a bar fight or some other sort of altercation on a regular basis, the last few weeks of no action has been driving Brom a little batty. So for him, riding the storm topside is an adrenaline rush that he may soon regret . . . but in his mind its better than puking in the hold.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet Sunday October 30th, 2011 8:29:06 PM
Barratore finds a good segment of rope and makes it two segments and follows Artus' commands. "I'll stand at your tiller as long as the ship has need." The minotaur knows he can easily hold the wheel as long as any of the sailors and likely twice as long, but he also is not about to go against the master of the ship. When relieved he will consider himself relieved, but Barratore also intends to stay above deck as often as he can. If the ship goes down, he is not going to be caught below in tight quarters
DM SteveK - Black Sky, Black Sea d6=1 ; Monday October 31st, 2011 12:58:41 PM
The prediction of Artus is quite accurate. In only a few minutes, the steady wind in the sails falls, and the storm sail (the smallest sheet of canvas available to keep steerage) falls empty. A second later, a wall of wind smacks into the fleet, snapping the sail full and bolwing a sailor of his feet. Immediately, the water becomes a froth, the sky darkens to the color of jet and a wall of rainwater drenches the deck. And then, the waves arrive.
For 2 days, the SeaSprite rides the ocean alone. Darkness and giant waves prevent the ship from seeing any of the others. Every rise to the top of a wave is a race down the other side ending with the forward third of the sloop completely underwater. Heaving up like a cork with water pouring out of the scuppers, everyone abovedeck is quickly soaked to the skin, lashed with wind and rain that chaps exposed skin so cheeks and noses are cracked and bleeding. (all WLAers except Crag take d6 damage and d6 non-lethal damage for the storm for being in the elements. Barratore take additional d6 non-lethal for staying in the storm the whole time.)
Underdeck is not any better. Those staying under are bufffeted from bulkhead to bulkhead, and are forced to bail around the clock to keep the water only in the bilge. Crackers and dried fruitbar are the only thing to eat, and many of the sailors have bladders to puke in when they are off duty. All WLAers except Crag and Barratore take Fort DC 15 to avoid extreme seasickness. Crag make 2 saves at Fort DC 15.
Thankfully, the storm is all but over in only 2 Days. No one got a lot of sleep, and EVERYONE is Fatigued. Those that couldn't eat anything from puking are Exhausted. Half the crew are down, either from exhaustion or buffeted into unconsciousness.
Luckily, the SeaSprite itself sustained little damage, and even luckier, Artus is still alive and in fairly good shape. Looking around, the halfling asks for a meeting with the heroes. Sense Motive DC 12: Highlight to display spoiler: { the Navigator looks worried and trying to hide it. }
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 d20+5=22 ; d20+5=23 ; d20+7=11 ; d6=6 ; Monday October 31st, 2011 1:28:24 PM
(Fort saves of 22 and 23. Sense Motive 11)
Crag stays below, where he is bounced and banged, but is able to keep his food down. After the storm finally subsides, he climbs his fatigued self up out of the hold, and looks around to see what kind of damage awaits, both to people and the ship.
Crag will pray to the Gods, thanking them for the gift of life, and adds in a side note about getting off the stinking ocean in one piece. He also rememorizes spells. He will assemble all of the banged and injured people on board to within 30' of him, and channel energy, healing everyone of 6 hp of damage(and I also believe eliminating the non lethal damage.).
He listens to Artus request the meeting, but doesn't notice anything unusual, and waits for the meeting to learn the status of the fleet and the ship.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet d6=2 ; d6=6 ; d6=4 ; d20=13 ; Monday October 31st, 2011 1:51:21 PM
"Imod watch over us" is a mumbled prayer repeated nonstop for nearly 48 hours. The power and awe striking enormity of the storm has him dumbstruck. As it begins and the great waves break, Barratore is exhilarated, riding the ship is as close to flying as he could have imagined. The thunderous sound of the waves breaking, the thunderclaps and the ship herself has him calling out triumphantly.
The storm blows on, muscles wear down, his eyes sting yet still the excitement rolls and adrenaline flows. The storm though has far more stamina and muscles burn, skin yields and the constant exposure and lack of nourishment exacts it's toll. Barratore leaves adrenaline behind, excitement fades, thought dissappaites and survival is all that there is
Barratore has no recollection of how he spent those two days. He only knows he survived and the others find him in the end standing where they left him at the tiller
[lethal damage 2. Non lethal 10.]
Crag's healing washes through him and the Minotaur thanks both the dwarf and Alemi. Now at least able to pay attention, Barratore settles in for the meeting [sense motive 13]
Harvest Moon lifts a weary head when the driving wind and stinging waters - rain distinguishable from sea only by the taste - abate, dropping only to a slight drizzle. She tips her head to the sky to let this gentler rain wash her face. She puts forth her tongue to catch some drops of pure clean water. She laps at her own lips to catch the water from her face, but winces at the pain from many sores at the places where her lips had dried and cracked. At least she is clean of the vomit from her stomach. That, having washed from her by the pounding waves.
Harvest turns a listless head at the light that washes over her. She nods to Crag Hammerfist in acknowledgement of the magic. Her thanks is as weak as her body.
"I am here," she says, levering herself to a standing position. With weak and shaky fingers she unties herself from the rail. Then, ropes still bound about herself, Harvest Moon makes her way to the place where the halfling, Navigator Artus Morindim, has requested the meeting.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Fortitude 9/Failed Sense Motive 9/Failed
Damage 2hp Damage Non-Lethal 4hp
Both Damages healed by Crag
Status: Exhausted
Lemick 4-Leaf Sted/Anthony hp 9/9, ac 20/12/18 d6=6 ; d6=2 ; 2d20+2=17 ; d20+2=7 ; d20+2=22 ; d20+3=4 ; Monday October 31st, 2011 9:48:42 PM
Current HP: 3/9 (1/9 non-lethal) (still need to level Lemick, this weekend I hope)
Lemick is battered from side to side, vomits from one bladder to another having only enough time to find and empty one before spewing the acids churning in his stomach. Nothing stays down. He's completely Exhausted and is clueless regarding most of the actions above the deck.
Gerox Shale d20+3=6 ; d6=5 ; d6=3 ; d20=20 ; Monday October 31st, 2011 10:39:46 PM
Gerox is miserable. Those two days seem like 100 years. He has a lump on his head the size of a walnut as he flew up and hit the ceiling during a nasty wave. The head strike didn't help him keep his food down and he puked most of the two days straight.
When the storm finally breaks, he staggers up to the deck and feels the blessed healing which takes most of his pain away. He stumbles over to Crag and gives him a hug simply saying "Thankyou" He listens to Artus and his bump of trouble goes off. "Uh oh. I think we have trouble." He quickly scans around looking for the fleet and if it is there starts counting ships."
Brom the Barbarian (RichP); AC: 16 (T 12, FF 14, Raged 14), CMD: 18 (20 Raged); HP: 15/15 (17/17 Raged) d6=6 ; d6=4 ; d20+4=17 ; d20+1=8 ; Monday October 31st, 2011 11:10:03 PM
[lethal 6; non-lethal 4; Fort save DC17; Sense Motive DC8]
Brom rides out the storm. Shouts of exhilaration and foul language come from Brom's mouth as he is pummeled by the storm. When the storm finally dies, Brom is a bit winded but all smiles. "That was awesome! Man, I feel alive!"
He looks around to see if everyone is alright. Crags healing removes all bruises from the barbarian's body.
Brom responds to the captain's meeting call. "Whatssup."
DM SteveK - WLA Business Decision Tuesday November 1st, 2011 11:36:32 AM
ooc: Everyone gain 100xp for great posts about the storm. I love em! :-) ...............
Though Fatigued or Exhausted or still slightly Sickened from the rough ride, Crag is able to heal the purely physical injuries of the heroes and crew, which considerably brightens at least the crew's morale. (ooc: healing will heal lethal damage and concurrently heal nonlethal damage...double benefit)
The group, still exhausted or fatigued, gathers around Artus by the long-handled tiller. Only Gerox seems to think there is something wrong and looks about to count sails... there are none.
"Captain Theringer told me that you were the most important cargo on the SeaSprite, and, more than that, that I was to give you the opportunity, when presented, to challenge your abilities to make you better for the day when we get to Rum. To my mind, the current situation makes the wind blow in two directions, so I'm going to leave it up to you about what we should do."
Normally, the little halfling seemed like the last person on the Wold to beat around a problem, but everyone can now see that he is a little upset. "The storm has blown us out of sight of any of the other ships, and has possibly blown us hundreds of miles off course. To make a situation worse, while we only took minor damage, one of the things that was damaged was my cabin and all the maps are ruined and my sextant is missing, presumably overboard. While I can generally remember where land is from the maps and I can sail in a general direction with the sun and stars, I can't get us to Rum without finding the fleet." At this, he points at the crows nest on the mast and then waves at the ocean in all directions. "And there isn't a sail or floatsam anywhere on the horizon."
"Since we are a month out of Liontaur Island, we are also going to be on short rations already if we turn around and try to make it back east. The Fixer Fleet was counting on all the Fixers to Create Food and Water for the ships as we went west and so we only stocked 6 weeks of supplies in order to not strip Chessford clean."
"So... The question before you is do you want the SeaSprite to continue on in hopes of finding the Fleet or Rum, or to turn back and try to make landfall before our supplies run out."
Artus waits for what the heroes have to say.
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 Tuesday November 1st, 2011 3:28:29 PM
"Huh. Well that's not a very nice choice. I for one, am believing that the Gods have sent us on this mission to help those that need helping. So I guess i am for goin forward and not back. Sometimes the Gods choose to test your resolve and your character, and I'm hopin this is one of those times. If it's just a case of rotten luck, then I will trust that the way will be shown. That's me thinkin."
"If it helps with the provisioning, I can create a couple gallons of water today. Starting tomorrow I can pray for the spells to create six gallons a day, ten if i were to use all me spells but one. Nothing I can do bout food though.
Brom the Barbarian (RichP); AC: 16 (T 12, FF 14, Raged 14), CMD: 18 (20 Raged); HP: 15/15 (17/17 Raged) Tuesday November 1st, 2011 4:05:22 PM
"I'm with Crag. I say we move forward. I think we should look for any islands and go ashore to supply."
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al Tuesday November 1st, 2011 6:58:31 PM
"Things might be found to eat ... " begins Harvest Moon, from her place seated and resting upon the deck " ... in places that one least expects to find such things."
"I saw many things in the sea while we remained in Wemic Port Chessford. I think that there may be many that we might find to eat."
"We should go forward," says Harvest Moon. "To Rum."
++++++++++++++++
OoC: Steve, what do you think of survival checks for forage on the open water? Per the SRD, DC10 plus food and water for one other person for every +2 over the DC?
Peza Tuesday November 1st, 2011 8:13:41 PM
AT hearing the navigators concerns about which way they should go ... the raven haired girl adds her support " i agree with the others .... we go forward .... we should be able to fish for food to help supplement the ships stores ...."
" if the weather stays clear it should help us spot the fleet ... i'll do some duty in the crows nest to help look "
" and anything you need me to do to help the ship or crew just ask " adds Peza cheerfully " we wanted adventure ... looks like we got it "
Lemick 4-Leaf Sted/Anthony hp 9/9, ac 20/12/18 Tuesday November 1st, 2011 9:29:29 PM
Lemick is lying on the deck taking in the fresh calm sunshine as his stomach continues to turn. "Aye agree, If we continue on our way, we may be able to find others that suffered damage and are thus going slower. And," Just as Lemick attempts to elaborate a bit more, he rolls over to the edge, pulls himself up and dry heaves several times before expelling the little saliva that managed to actually make it to his stomach over the last few days.
Afterwards he slumps, smiling at actually feeling better, and drifts off into a light sleep.
Gerox Shale Tuesday November 1st, 2011 11:44:38 PM
Gerox smiles as the group wants to push forward. "Water is the biggest issue. We might all have to tighten our belts but if we can drink we can survive for a long time. Fishing will help. As a gnome, I can speak to animals once a day. Maybe if we see some dolphins, I can convince them to help us drive some fish into nets. Do we have any fishing nets? Can we make some? We should ask among the crew if their are any fisherman. Maybe we can help with there duties while they try their luck. We also need to scan the seas for larger prey. Turtle, shark and whale will keep us fed for a while.
Captain, do you know of any smaller islands where we might stop to restock our supplies. Even if we have to forage? Even if it takes us a couple of days or week out of our way, if we can get enough food it would help. Do you remember any islands on the charts?
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet Wednesday November 2nd, 2011 9:41:03 AM
Barratore nods in agreement with the others, "Press on." There is nothing really to add, the others have thought of everything that came to mind. Barratore inhales deeply and slowly breathes out through his nose. Yet another enemy that could not be killed or subdued. Metascar had never brought to light adventures such as these
Status 4non lethal damage Fatigued
DM SteveK - Pressing On Wednesday November 2nd, 2011 1:18:39 PM
As one person, the heroes urge Artus to continue on in hopes of finding the Fleet, Rum, or even some land somewhere as to then discover thier location. Ideas are also brought out. Being sailors on a boat, Artus has ensured a supply of deep sea fishing lines are available, but says that will only be able to suppliment the food on board, not completely replace it.
Still, Artus navigates the SeaSprite westward with lookouts scanning the horizon for a sail or land.
Crag offering to ensure that plentiful Purify Food and Drink orisons is a great relief to Artus. The crew will not have to worry about spoilage on any of the food they have, and with his Create Water orison, they will always have fresh water.
Gerox' offer to Speak with Animals if given a chance is also highly appreciated and useful. Using Artus' knowledge, it takes 2 days to find an albatross for the gnome to talk to. After a little bargain, the Albatross willingly signals where there are schools of fish underwater where the SeaSprite can steer over for the best catches. In return, the Albatross gets to stuff itself with fish parts. A good bargain all around!
On the evening of the 5th day, a joyful cry is heard from the Crows Nest: "Land ho!" Through the night, the SeaSprite keeps her distance, not wanting to run aground in the darkness. By morning, the SeaSprite can see they are off shore of a green island!
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al d20+10=28 Wednesday November 2nd, 2011 4:17:17 PM
Harvest Moon sits quietly in a corner listening as various sailors and other speak of navigating, becoming lost, and how to prevent themselves from becoming lost. For Harvest Moon it is a novel concern. Before leaving the Contested Kingdoms, she had never strayed far from home. Then, after leaving the Contested Kingdoms, she had no home. It is difficult for one to become lost when one has no place to which one must belong.
Finally, Harvest Moon rises to go below. She returns moments later with her book within which is her hand drawn map. She seats herself upon the deck beside the halfling Navigator Artus Morindim and opens the book to the page of the map.
"We were not lost," Harvest Moon says. "We are here," she points, describing a circle to the south of the continent of Yrth that, admittedly, encompasses a rather large area of sea to the west of Chessford. "The land is big," she adds. "If we go north, we must come to the land sometime."
From her book, Harvest Moon looks up and turns her head first one way and then to another. "North," she says, pointing a finger with a confidence made more evident by it's sheer matter-of-factness, "is that direction."
When the call goes out that land has been sighted, Harvest Moon jumps to the ship's bow. From that place she watches the sea for the dark shapes that might signify dangerous rocks. And she watches the land itself for what mysteries this new place might reveal. (Perception check below.)
+++++++++++++++++
Perception 28
OoC: If you are trained in Survival, you can automatically determine where true north lies in relation to yourself.
SteveK: Al, my pardon, but I changed my DM Post. (It doesn't look like it affects your Post, but you always have the opportunity.)
Al OoC: Added a bit to the end.
Lemick 4-Leaf Sted/Anthony hp 9/9, ac 20/12/18 Wednesday November 2nd, 2011 7:42:27 PM
Lemick, finally physically recovered from the sickness, spends his time in general silence as the boat makes it's slow way in a direction. He's very grateful fish is found.
If needed, Lemick can also aid in purifying and creating water.
Peza Wednesday November 2nd, 2011 8:45:00 PM
Making her way to the ships guardrail ... Peza stares at the island .... " well it certianly looks habitable ... very green and lush from what i can see .... we will get a closer look in the morning .... i will suggest that we take a longboat in and have a quick exploration .... "
Gerox Shale Wednesday November 2nd, 2011 9:40:19 PM
Gerox has the thought and asks his new bird friend, "Have you seen any other ship like ours on your flights? We were traveling with a whole flock of them and the big storm separated us from our friends. Please let me know if you have seen them or see them in the future."
When the look out calls out "Land-ho" Gerox scrambles up the rat lines to take a look. He looks for any signs of life. He will then come down and say to Artus, "You should let our group go explore first and see if the way is safe. We can do a quick survey looking for food and other provisions, but it might make more sense to circle the island before anyone lands. We might find some friends beached or a safe place to anchor and ferry supplies. Or see if their are any local inhabitants to be wary of."
Lemick 4-Leaf Sted/Anthony hp 9/9, ac 20/12/18 d20+3=16 ; Wednesday November 2nd, 2011 10:45:38 PM
Lemick looks at the lush green as the sun sets. "Be great if we could find some friendlies." As night approaches he looks to the shoreline for any smoke from fires.
spot: 16
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet Thursday November 3rd, 2011 9:28:10 AM
Barratore lends his muscle and mass where needed as the ship makes it's way toward what hopefully would be Rum. To be lost at sea did not really register and with the skills of the crew and Artis and the others he began this adventure with, the Minotaur simply did not feel lost
The call of land brings a smile to his face and Barratore adds his agreement to Gerox's thoughts. "yes. We should take the longboat in after circling or just patrolling the coast for a good spot"
With a landing on the immediate list of things to do, Barratore with go through what little gear he has, make himself combat ready and create a inventory of provisions to take ashore on the first trip
DM SteveK - Island of ... Birds? Thursday November 3rd, 2011 10:02:04 AM
Gerox speaks with his Albatross friend, who seems to understand 'flock' and 'boat'. The bird soars high and spirals around the SeaSprite as the ship coasts closer to land.
With the green island, the WLAers suggest coming close but having the heroes be in the first boatload or two to ensure the landing is safe before provisioning.
About a half mile out from a promising beach, a flock of medium-sized flying things begin to vigourously fly towards the Albatross and the SeaSprite. The heroes can see the Albatross wheel and speed for the open ocean! Perception DC 14 Highlight to display spoiler: { There must be 30 or more of the flying things} Perception DC 16 Highlight to display spoiler: { The flying things look like bat-winged heads with small tentacles hanging down. }
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 d20+3=15 ; Thursday November 3rd, 2011 10:29:49 AM
Crag agrees with the notion of sending us first, and is planning on being in the first boat when the flock of flying creatures is noticed.
"Looks to be 30 or more of whatever they are, and it looks like they are headed this way."
Crag calls out to Artus and his companions as he pulls his crossbow and loads it, "Might want to have everyone who has a ranged weapon grab one. I'm guessing from the Albatross' reaction that they probably aren't very friendly."
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al Thursday November 3rd, 2011 10:48:07 AM
The flight of Gerox Shale's albatross friend is alarming. Even more so is the unusual shape of the creatures that frighten it away.
"They are heads, Crag Hammerfist!" Harvest Moon calls out with alarm. "Heads with the wings of bats, and strange ropey arms down beneath them!" With those words, she is off like a shot. Harvest Moon skids to a stop before the place to which her polearm is lashed, and quickly releases it from its bindings.
"THEY COME!", she calls, brandishing the rusty blade high up in the air in a threatening manner.
+++++++++++++++
Previous Perception check was 28
Brom the Barbarian (RichP); AC: 16 (T 12, FF 14, Raged 14), CMD: 18 (20 Raged); HP: 15/15 (17/17 Raged) d20+5=20 ; Thursday November 3rd, 2011 4:00:18 PM
The alert causes Brom to look in that direction. He confirms others account of the flying things. "Hmmm I don't thing they're coming to coming ta chat."
Brom is somewhat grateful that they weren't on the long boats now. "Are there any nets?" He shouts out. "We net'em and kill'em."
Lemick 4-Leaf Sted/Anthony hp 9/9, ac 20/12/18 d20+3=23 ; Thursday November 3rd, 2011 4:18:52 PM
Lemick was thinking he would join the second boat, until the near three dozen creatures are spotted by his comrads. "Yikes,"
Perception: 23
"Those don't look friendly." he states what the crew certainly must be thinking. He waits to get a better judgement on their size.
Butterfly net or shield and javelin, he considers based upon their size and runs below to grab the appropriate one. Guessing them to be at least the size of an albatros, Lemick returns with some rope as well. He fastens himself, outside, near the door going below-deck. As he ties the knot, he stomach groans in remembrance of his last attachment by rope.
Gerox Shale Thursday November 3rd, 2011 6:47:10 PM
Gerox whistles to himself as he watches the cloud of death come towards the ship. He moves to the rail and stands on a box readying a spell to cast when the creatures come within range (color spray). He calls to the sailors. If you have a bow, start shooting. Otherwise stand back to back so one can't come at you from behind."
After the advice, he stands ready, calculating how to get as many as he can with his spell.
Peza d20=8 ; Thursday November 3rd, 2011 10:31:30 PM
Quickly unslinging her crossbow .... Peza smoothly loads it with practiced ease ...she moves towards the bow of the ship ...... as she walks by Brom ...." thats a good idea with the nets .... "
Once reaching the bow ... she gauges the distance to the oncoming horde ....she kneels down behind the guardrail ( cover ??) ... and takes aim ....(readied action)(will shot when they come within 320" ft )(Peza gets +6 to hit and with range inc penalty of -2 per inc she now shoots at even)
" take cover if you can ... since we don't know what tactics they will use don't give them a chance to grab you " shouts the ranger
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet Friday November 4th, 2011 9:11:22 AM
Barratore nods to Brom. "I'm on it and looks to see if any of the nets aboard might be weapon ready by shouting tongue sailors "do we have any smaller nets than the large drag nets?"
Barratore draws his blade as he hollers and makes his way to the bow. Against so many, javelins would be of little use and he would lose everyone that he threw. Hopefully the small womans description was accurate and the flying heads had no ranged attack either
DM SteveK - Bat-winged Heads! Friday November 4th, 2011 10:02:56 AM
Crag and Peza grab crossbows and ready against the approaching flock.
Harvest and Barratore grab melee weapons and wait for the flying creatures to get within range.
Gerox readies a spell and does the same.
Lemick ties himself to the railing, recalling his stomach the last time he did that prior to the storm.
Brom asks for any nets. But no, the SeaSprite doesn't carry any that could be useful for throwing, only two huge and bulky cargo nets that are completely unsuitable.
...............
The Albatross is not a fast bird, but it seems to be at least keeping its distance from the flock of monsters.
Artus doesn't wait for the flock of bat-winged heads to arrive, but some quick commands causes the SeaSprite to heel over and put maximum sail on, scooting away from the island at a 60 degree angle, providing maximum wind even if not directly away from the flock.
The movement of the SeaSprite seems to have attracted the monster's attention, for they stop chasing the Albatross and are now catching up to the fleeing boat! And it looks like they are faster than the SeaSprite. Within 10 minutes, the flock is 300' away from the aft rail. Some of the monsters have turned back towards the island, but 15 or so are still flying fast!
............
Bat-Winged Heads AC 15
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al d20+6=26 ; d20-3=0 ; d20+1=13 ; Friday November 4th, 2011 11:05:24 AM
Bat-winged heads! One or two of them might be curious and interesting. But the manner in which the entire flock pursues is quite aggressive. They chase in the manner of a hunting group.
Harvest Moon races to Peza's side, covering her friend and her crossbow by waving the polearm with menace.
Bat-winged heads ... Thelonious had often spoken of creatures who had been wrongly risen from death. He even had a book with frightening pictures of bizarre and unusual creatures. As she readies for the attack, Harvest Moon studies the appearance of these Bat-winged heads, attempting to match them to a creature that she might know.
++++++++++++++++
Knowledge Religion 26 to identify the Batwing Heads AoO w/Guisarme Hit AC0 (-4 Penalty for Untrained) Ready Unarmed Strike Hit AC13
Brom the Barbarian; AC: 16 (T 12, FF 14, Raged 14), CMD: 18 (20 Raged); HP: 15/15 (17/17 Raged) d20+6=23 ; 2d6+7=15 ; Friday November 4th, 2011 11:56:10 AM No nets. It was a good idea but Brom makes a mental note to get one at his first chance. He is glad to see that half of the group has turned back. That should give them a chance. He moves to the aft of the SeaSprite and draws his sword.
"Come on ya demons! Come and I'll bathe my blade in your blood!"
Readied attack: AC 23; damage 15
Peza d20=2 ; Friday November 4th, 2011 9:53:27 PM
As Harvest takes a position next to her ... Peza smiles at her .." glad your here "
Reloading her crossbow ... the ranger takes aim .....fires another shot .. which lands somewhere in the ocean (d20=2) ..... " not used fighting abord ships .... wind swirls from the sials and ships movement ... i have to be more patient " as Peza berates herself ..... she starts to gauge the winds effect
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 d20-1=1 ; Saturday November 5th, 2011 9:00:54 AM
Crag moves to the aft rail and readies until the flying heads are about 150' from him before he lets loose a bolt. "Only got 20 of them, gotta conserve." He thinks to himself. "Gotta remember to buy more next time i get a chance."
Attack: Hit ac 1, miss (good to see the die roller has managed to find me after leaving CoC. I was worried that it didn't get my forwarding address.)
(OOC: I will assume that all Crags spells are going toward maintaining food/water supplies on the ship except his one domain spell, and are essentially unavailable for combat.)
(OOC2: did we ever pick up a wand? if so, who has it?)
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet d20+5=13 ; 2d8+6=16 ; d20+5=15 ; 2d8+6=12 ; Saturday November 5th, 2011 2:42:11 PM
Barratore moves to the stern "Anyone know what these things are. Any special nastiness we should know!". He calls out to the group in general as he moves. Barratore gets for the rail and readies for the things to close
Attack hit ac 13 damage 16 AoO hit ac 15 damage 12
Gerox Shale Saturday November 5th, 2011 11:25:28 PM
Gerox calls to any of the sailors who have missile weapons. "Team your shots up! Try to cluster your shots on a few of them and take them down." It seems they creatures don't fly very fast and he is tempted to use some of his magic missiles as they get closer but he holds off for now, keeping his color spray ready.
Lemick 4-Leaf Sted/Anthony hp 9/9, ac 20/12/18 d20+2=19 ; d8=7 ; Sunday November 6th, 2011 9:21:52 AM
Lemick stands ready with his javelin, not really wanting to lose yet another one and awaits their arrival. During this wait, he considers how they might attack.
Delayed melee attack: 19 Dmg: 7
DM SteveK - Bat-winged Heads! Monday November 7th, 2011 5:52:24 PM
Heroes prepare as Peza lets fly but fails to hit a flying head.
Harvest thinks hard but fails to come up with a corresponding undead that would match these flying heads. As evil as they look, Harvest concludes they must come from another plane! Any hero can perform a trained Knowledge Planes DC 13 check to Highlight to display spoiler: { They are Vargouilles! Thier kiss can transform a person into a Vargouille which is how they reproduce. Thier shriek at close range can also make people run in fear. }
The bat-winged heads seem to not want to be so far away from thier island. One by one, they turn and head for home. Any ones that Peza or Crag wounds are among those that fly back. At last, there are only 3 Bat-Winged Heads boring in on the SeaSprite, and they will get to the back of the boat in only seconds!
..................
The heads are only 30 feet away from the back of the boat. Artus and two sailors are at the tiller and there is room for eight more medium (or 4 medium and one Barratore) on the aft deck.
3 Bat-Winged Heads AC 15
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al d20-3=10 ; d20+1=17 ; d6+1=6 ; Monday November 7th, 2011 8:04:30 PM
"They are not of the unnaturally dead!" calls out Harvest Moon in response to Barratore Steelwind. "I do not know them."
The polearm continues its wild swings in the air. But, below, Harvest Moon prepares to strike any who would come within her reach. The small half-elven girl snaps her foot into the air. The foot goes high, up above her head. The spread of her legs is so wide as to be unnatural, a feat only possible for young bones.
Harvest Moon stands poised and ready to deliver a true blow to any Bat-Winged Head who tries to hurt her friend.
++++++++++++++++
AoO w/Guisarme Hit AC10 (-4 Penalty for Untrained) Ready Unarmed Strike Hit AC17, Damage 6hp (Stunning Fist: Will vs DC15 or be stunned for one round)
Peza d20+4=10 ; Monday November 7th, 2011 8:22:47 PM
Again smoothly reloading her crossbow as she stands in the bow of the ship ....Peza raises it to her shoulder ... lining up the nearest bat thing in her sights ...... " be patient " with a slight bend in her knees .. hoping to compensate for the rolling of the ship ..... Peza takes a breath .... holding it for a split second as she fires at the flying creature...
" By Waard .... i don't think i can hit the ocean if i tried .. " cries out Peza in frustration ....as another bolt goes wide of the amrk ...
1st shot d20+4 (-2 taken into account for range mod)
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 d20+1=21 ; d20+1=7 ; d8=8 ; Monday November 7th, 2011 8:43:47 PM
Crag reloads and fires again, hoping to drop one of the three approaching creatures.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet d20+5=22 ; d3=1 ; d3=2 ; d20+5=21 ; 2d8+6=16 ; 2d8+6=18 ; Monday November 7th, 2011 9:41:20 PM
Barratore maintains his position at the stern with only three coming in his confindence only increases. His hands wring themselves around he hilt of new blade, the tip vertical before him, swirls about in a tight counter clockwise circle
Readied attack ac 22. Dmg 16 AoO attack ac 21. Dmg 18
Ignore the d3'rolls
Brom the Barbarian; AC: 16 (T 12, FF 14, Raged 14), CMD: 18 (20 Raged); HP: 15/15 (17/17 Raged) d20+6=22 ; 2d6+7=15 ; d20+5=8 ; d20+1=5 ; Tuesday November 8th, 2011 8:20:45 AM
Brom stands firm on the aft of the Sea Sprite. Greatsword out he prepares to send these devils back where hence they came.
Brom watches closely for signs from the bat-like things which give him an edge. Unfamiliar with these devils, Brom is unable to read the monsters.
Perception DC8; Sense Motive DC5
Readied attack AC22, damage 15
Gerox Shale d4+1=3 ; Tuesday November 8th, 2011 4:57:09 PM
Gerox doesn't like the look of the things and decides to attack a bit farther out since their are only 3 of them. He shoots a magic missile at one doing 3 points of damage
Lemick 4-Leaf Sted/Anthony hp 9/9, ac 20/12/18 d20+2=15 ; d8=5 ; Tuesday November 8th, 2011 10:02:04 PM
Lemick, with javelin ready, awaits for them to close rank knowing if he throws the javelin it's gone.
Should one get close enough he'll swing.
hit AC 15, dmg 5
DM SteveK - Bat-winged Heads! 2d4=2 ; d20+1=13 ; d20+4=20 ; d20+1=8 ; d20+1=5 ; Thursday November 10th, 2011 2:00:08 PM
ooc: sorry for the delay, I'm mostly back now
....................
Crag manages to clip one of the monsters homing in on the ship with a crossbow bolt, and Gerox further hurts it wtih a magic missle , then the three dive down!
The wounded creature flies towards the unprotected steersman, and Barratore's large sword slices it in two!
The second head senses opportunity and flies in to attack the minotaur, but Barratore's backhanded slash cuts the monster from the sky where it falls on the deck with its mouth slowly opening and closing on the air.
The third sees the fate of its fellows and tries something different. Keeping only 30 feet away from the rear of the SeaSprite, the mouth disjoints until it is a huge gaping maw filled with sharp fangs... and then shrieks. A keening wail that sounds eerily human and not rips through the ears and felt with the body. Only the people on the aft deck are affected majically as the voice promises everlasting horror!
All heroes plus Aruts and Steersmen roll Fort Save DC 12 or be paralyzed for 2 rounds.
Artus and one sailor cover thier ears and continue thier steering of the ship.
One sailor, paralyzed with fright, loses his balance and falls overboard into the sea!
..................
The heads are only 30 feet away from the back of the boat. Artus and two sailors are at the tiller and there is room for eight more medium (or 4 medium and one Barratore) on the aft deck.
Brom cringes from the soul piercing shriek of the bat-demon. "You want to play that way, Brom will play."
Brom's rage takes over as he grabs a javelin from its place. Roaring a mighty roar, Brom sends the javelin towards the creature.
[Hero point: Range attack +11 (+8 for point, +3 for Brom) - AC24, damage 9]
Rage: 1/6 rds
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al d20+4=14 ; Thursday November 10th, 2011 3:35:45 PM
The scream of the Bat-winged Head is terrible to hear. But the shock at seeing one of the sailors of the SeaSprite fall from the boat, pushes Harvest Moon's own fear from her, and spurs her to action. For the briefest of moments, she thinks to dive after the man. With the speed of the boat he will soon be left behind. Something must be done quickly.
But a cooler voice of wisdom whispers to Harvest Moon. It tells her that should she act rashly, she too would be at the mercy of the sea. The League Adventurers would then have two over the board - two in need of rescue. Then, one of the barrels placed beside the mast catches her eye. Would it float? Could the man not find it and then cling to it while they turned to return and recover him?
Without hesitation, Harvest Moon drops the polearm and rushes to the barrel. Gripping it as best she can, she raises it up and prepares to heave it as far as she can.
"FIND THE BARREL!" Harvest Moon calls out as loudly as she can. "CLING TO IT! WE WILL RETURN FOR YOU!"
+++++++++++++++++
Fortitude 14 / Pass Drop Guisarme / Move to Barrel mid ship / Pick up Barrel
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 d20+1=10 ; Thursday November 10th, 2011 9:05:30 PM
Crag reloads and fires again, hoping to hit the flying head, and counting on his friends to rescue the sailor overboard.
(OOC: I will assume that all Crags spells are going toward maintaining food/water supplies on the ship except his one domain spell, and are essentially unavailable for combat.)
Peza d20+4=20 ; d20+5=11 ; Thursday November 10th, 2011 10:20:09 PM
As the bat thing shrieks ... the ranger covers her ears ... [d20+4=20 fort save] ..... out of the corner of her eye she watches the paralyzed sailor fall over board ......
" Artus lower the longboat " shouts Peza .....
without thinking .. she drops her crossbow to the deck .... sprinting towards the guardrail ....passing Harvest as she girlhandles the barrel over the side ...Peza leaps overboard after the sailor ....[d20+5=11 swim check] ....
As she plunges into the ocean .. the thought ..... " this is what heroes do ??? right ?? " pops into her head ...
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet d20+5=20 ; d20+5=14 ; d20+5=23 ; d20+5=11 ; 2d8+6=9 ; 2d8+6=15 ; 2d8+6=10 ; Friday November 11th, 2011 8:04:13 AM
Barratore flinches as the shriek rolls over him, but it has no lasting affect other than his ears disagree with the horrid sound. The sailor is being rescued and so Barratore ignores that issue. Barratore readies for the creature to try and get in.
readied attack AC 14 Dmg 9 AoO Hit AC 23 Dmg 15 AoO Combat Reflexes Hit AC 11 Dmg 10
Gerox Shale d20+3=15 ; d4+1=4 ; Friday November 11th, 2011 8:36:32 AM
Gerox feels the scream wash over him but is able to shake the ill effects off with a shake of his head. Then Gerox watches Peza jump overboard in amazement. Doesn't she realize that if the boat moves forward and the heads don't, they would be alone with those nasty floating heads! That isn't good!
Gerox moves way from the stern to give others room and launches another magic missile spell at one who yelled. ( I think that is the only one left fighting correct) His missile leaps out and hits the head for 4 points of damage.
Gerox then looks for a coil of rope which he will move to and grab.
DM SteveK - Bat-winged Heads! d4=1 ; d20+1=7 ; Friday November 11th, 2011 1:45:48 PM
Brom siezes a javelin and severely wounds the flying head!
Harvest leaps to a nearby float barrel (one usually used to keep the ship from smacking into the docks) and heaves it up to toss it over the side to the paralyzed sailor.
Crag looses a crossbow bolt that the head manages to dodge.
Peza calls for Artus to lower the dinghy and then leaps over the side to the sticken sailor! Her leather armor does overly burden her in the calm seas and she pops her head out of the water right next to the paralyzed sailor.
Barratore readies an attack, ensuring the head won't be able to get close to the SeaSprite without 8 feet of steel to worry about!
Gerox lets fly another Magic Missle further harming the last flying head, but it is still alive and looking as evil as ever!
...................
Artus shouts for two sailors to ready lines, port and starboard, and then calls for the helmsman "port, full over!" The WLAers have been on ship long enough to know what is happening next. The single helmsman pushes the tiller hard left and the SeaSprite does a skew turn in the water to the right. The mainsails wooden boom that has been just off the port rail swings wide to port until it is nearly perpendicular to the hull, and the SeaSprite begins edging back to Peza and the Sailor.
Artus' bass roar calls out over the sounds of combat, wind and water, and the bellowing of the sails. "Grab Hmanas and then grab a rope! We'll pull you up and be on our way!"
Hmanas, the paralyzed sailor, can't do anything to help Peza. It is only by the barest of luck that he is even face up in the water!
..................
The bat-winged flying head with tentacles stops going after the ship and dives down to the water and Peza and Hmanas. The flying head closes in on the helpless sailor (no AOO available from Peza since she's swimming and without a melee weapon in hand) and attaches itself to Hmanas' face with the tentacles, like it is grappling in a grotesque manner!
(Missle weapons into melee rules apply if shooting)
................
1 Bat-Winged Head AC 15 HP 13
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al Friday November 11th, 2011 2:41:43 PM
"Swim to the barrel!" shouts Harvest Moon, and then heaves the thing over the side. Rushing further forward then, she grabs one of the three coils of rope on the port side of the SeaSprite.
Gerox Shale d4+1=2 ; Friday November 11th, 2011 3:41:04 PM
Gerox drops his rope cursing the actions that he predicted. He launches his last magic missile at the evil head hoping to drive it off but isn't really happy with his results only doing 2 points of damage
Peza Friday November 11th, 2011 4:17:34 PM
Peza is horrified by the bat things attack on the paralyzed sailor .... she quickly grabs the sailors by the back of his shirt in one hand and tries to grab the bat thing with the other ... dunking them under water ....
" grab a breath if you can .. going to dunk you and try and drown it "
" i know it flies ... i wonder if it swims " flashes through the rangers mind
ooc- not sure what to roll , melee attack ?? grapple ?? let me know i'll add it
DMSteve: Peza is trying to add herself to a Grapple. Roll for your CMB: Combat Maneuver Bonus, and try to get above a 10 to succeed.
Peza d20+2=4 ; Saturday November 12th, 2011 9:09:43 AM
d20+2=4 cmb roll ack !!
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 Saturday November 12th, 2011 9:29:17 AM
Crag reloads his crossbow, and readies to fire at the flying head once he has a clear shot and is not in danger of hitting Peza or the sailor(Not firing into Melee).
(OOC: I will assume that all Crags spells are going toward maintaining food/water supplies on the ship except his one domain spell, and are essentially unavailable for combat.)
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet d20-2=8 ; Saturday November 12th, 2011 12:47:12 PM
Barratore growls to himself, what could he do? Peza just tried to pull them all under and the thing was attached to Hmanas. What could he do? The thought comes as it usually does, move and attack
"Fire Dwarf! FIRE" Barratore moves from the stern down the ship to get as close as he can, pulling a javelin as he moves. Coming to the side rail and a roar he sends the javelin at the thing, missing horribly.
Hit AC 8 meh kinda expected a miss here
Lemick 4-Leaf Sted/Anthony hp 9/9, ac 20/12/18 Saturday November 12th, 2011 2:50:25 PM
Lemick looks as the situation goes from potentially bad to crazy. He watches as the man goes overboard and the creature changes tactics. Dropping his shield from one hand and untying himself, Lemick rushes to the edge
Brom the Barbarian; AC: 16 (T 12, FF 14, Raged 14), CMD: 18 (20 Raged); HP: 15/15 (17/17 Raged) d20+4=6 ; Monday November 14th, 2011 5:08:30 PM
Brom rushes to the side of the ship and attempts to jump over the rail his sword in hand, but fate, as would be, is not going to let that happen. [Acrobatics DC6 is probably not going to get it done.]
Rage 2/6 rds
DM SteveK - Bat-winged Heads! Monday November 14th, 2011 9:19:41 PM
ooc: wow, what a bunch of horrible rolls!
...............
Gerox' magic missle spell is feeble but is enough to knock the flying head staggering into the water.
Peza, while she couldn't Grapple ;the head, is able to easily collar Hmanas.
As the SeaSprite gets closer, Barratore is able to lean down and grab Peza, pulling her up on deck along with the still paralyzed Hmanas.
As soon as the pickup is made, Artus slews the SeaSprite around again. "Heads Down!" comes the shout as the mainsail's boom swings from port to starboard, sliding across the poop deck at 4 foot above the deck.
Once again sailing away from the cursed island, the group is safe... until Hmanas begins to writhe and scream. One look and it is obvious why the sailor is in pain: his head is changing! His ears are getting longer, his hair is falling out, and his head is swelling and distorting, rapidly growing pointy teeth!
Lemick 4-Leaf Sted/Anthony hp 9/9, ac 20/12/18 Monday November 14th, 2011 9:46:02 PM
Lemick stares in horror as the man suffers. Stepping forward and taking a knee, Lemick offers the man a prayer of Waard, "Hands are dealt and some play better than others. We are judged not by the hand dealt, but the courage and honor in which wlite handle the hand that has been dealt." With little available, he offers him one additional silent prayer.
Cast Bit of Luck and then Stabilize.
Peza Monday November 14th, 2011 10:25:22 PM
Peza holds onto the sailors collar tightly ....with one hand ... reaching for Barratores with the other .....as the powerful minotaur pulls her aboard ... she is thankful for his strength ....
Spitting out some seawater ... she lays on the deck .... out of the way of the sweeping boom .....
getting to her knnes she watches in horror at the rapid change to the poor sailor ...." whats happening to him ...?? ... somebody help him "
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet Tuesday November 15th, 2011 7:39:19 AM
Barratore hauls the pair aboard with a grunt and smiles at the girl who dove in to save the sailor, "Nicely done." He looks to Crag and Lemick, "Is he going to be all right?" The mans screams and contorting face answers the minotaurs question a moment later
Barratore applies his direct problem solving skills and grabs the mans head with his large hands and tries to prevent it from swelling,
Gerox Shale Tuesday November 15th, 2011 8:42:35 AM
Gerox looks at Barratore, his voice flat. "Unless we have a cleric on board who can cast a cure disease, you would be doing him a kindness to kill him. I don't think he would want to be come a blood sucking monster who would kill his friends."
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al d20+4=8 ; Tuesday November 15th, 2011 9:11:35 AM
"Peza!" Harvest Moon drops the rope and rushes to her friend, relief in her voice. "You were very brave."
The relief, however is short-lived. As the transformation begins, Harvest Moon can only look on in grim horror. Such a thing as this is so far beyond her experience that only one thing comes to her mind. Even through the shock, the hard decision is obvious to the girl from the Contested Kingdoms. If this transformation cannot be stopped, it may be better to slay this man. It would be a mercy.
For now, Harvest Moon says nothing, but the dark look upon her face mirrors her thoughts.
++++++++++++
Heal 8 (Untrained) / Yields nothing
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 d20+7=9 ; Tuesday November 15th, 2011 3:30:07 PM
Crag and his loaded crossbow walks over to the sailor and takes a look(heal check 9--%#*!#$).
He turns briefly toward Artus. "This is some sort of curse. He looks to be turning into one of them, and will then try to do to the rest of us what they just did to him. With the fleet gone and no powerful clerics around, we have only one recourse at present. Put him out of his misery, and save us from possibly losing more men. I would expect anyone to do the same for me."
Crag levels his crossbow, and unless stopped, delivers a coup de Grace to the sailors swelling head. (OOC: Couldnt find the rules for delivering a coup de grace if anyone can help me out.)
DM SteveK - Bat-winged Heads! Tuesday November 15th, 2011 10:12:18 PM
The horror of Hmanas transforming slowly into one of the bat-winged heads is finally ended by Crag who delivers the coup de grace, putting a crossbow bolt between his eyes. As the sailor slumps to the ground and dies, Artus and the other sailors soberly agree that there wasn't anything else to be done.
"You were very brave", the halfling tells Peza, "and Hmanas deserved better, but there was nothing anyone could have done." Sadly, he turns away, instructing two sailors to take Hmanas' body and sew it into his hammock and then he takes care of the rest of the SeaSprite.
The one dead bat-winged head is still on the deck, and it seems this one has a small leather sack entwined in the tentacles, which reveal two vials of liquid, a ring, and a tightly bound roll of parchment.
.................
ooc: all heroes get 200xp
Peza gets a HERO POINT!
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al Wednesday November 16th, 2011 9:44:00 AM
Harvest Moon draws in a breath and then sighs it back out. Death is the way of things. Things are born. Things must die. And yet, this is never easy for those who remain alive. Her mother had died. Death is very difficult.
Upon the deck lies one of the Batwinged-Heads. Perhaps, from death, something might yet be learned.
Harvest Moon turns the Batwinged-Head from side to side, examining the ropy arms, the shape of the head, the spread of the wings. She extracts the leather sack from the nest of ropy arms and places it aside for others to examine. Then Harvest Moon extracts a knife from her pouch. It is a small knife, a utility knife, one that she uses for the camp and for food preparation and such. With the knife, Harvest Moon cuts into the Batwinged-Head. With careful incisions, she cuts the Batwinged-Head open, revealing the insides to her questioning gaze.
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 Wednesday November 16th, 2011 11:35:49 AM
Crag says a blessing for the dead over the body of the sailor, and then turns toward Artus while putting his crossbow away. "I think Artus, that it would be best to avoid that island, and continue on. Doesn't seem like a place we should explore unless we are in desperate need of supplies."
Crag moves over to Harvest as she pulls the items from the flying head, and picks up the parchment. "don't suppose we would be lucky enough for this to be a map" he says as he opens it to see what it is.
(OOC: I will assume that all Crags spells are going toward maintaining food/water supplies on the ship except his one domain spell, and are essentially unavailable for combat.)
Gerox Shale Wednesday November 16th, 2011 11:47:48 AM
Gerox looks on his face turning a bit green as he watches Harvest cut into the head. He grabs up the sack and takes a look at the sack to find the ring, vials and parchment. He will cast a detect magic on the bunch and look up to tell the others the results and see Harvest cut off a tentacle. Gerox feels something rise in his throat which he desperately tries to keep down. After several swallows, he asks in a pale face, "Harvest that is just disgusting. Do you have to do that right there? Maybe you should find a place below decks. Remember that this fellow had friends on board. I am hoping if I die, you do start cutting me up!"
DM SteveK - Bat-winged Head Treasure Wednesday November 16th, 2011 6:18:13 PM
ooc: Crag needs only use his Orisons to create water and one spell per day to Purify Food and Drink. He will have his other spells as normal.
While Crag leads the burial remembrance, Harvest examines the first head that fell on the deck (ie - NOT the head of Hmanas), and begins dissecting the monster to see how it ticks.
Even though Gerox becomes a little uncomfortable, Harvest is able to find the leather pouch and the items inside. It is nothing for a spellcaster to Detect and find that all the items radiate magic: two vials of liquid, a ring, and a tightly bound roll of parchment.
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al d20+2=11 ; d20+5=15 ; Wednesday November 16th, 2011 7:08:56 PM
"I would not cut you, Gerox Shale." Harvest Moon looks up from her work with a curious expression. "You are my friend."
"Besides, I know already what is inside of you."
With a look of frustration and puzzlement, Harvest Moon returns her attention to the mass of Batwinged-head innards spilled out on the deck. "The presence of viscera means to me that the Batwinged-heads live in some way. This is different from the unnaturally risen from the dead. But ... " She puts her hands upon her hips and her mouth twists into a dissatisfied frown. "I cannot say what one thing is from another."
Cautiously, Harvest Moon lowers her face to the remains of the Batwinged-head and gives a tentative sniff. She draws back quickly, wrinkling her nose.
"I do not think that they are good to eat," Harvest Moon then says, "these Batwinged-heads." And she rises to fetch a bucket with which to draw in sea water and wash the remains of the slain Batwinged-head off into the ocean.
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Just some RP rolls
Intelligence 12 Survival 15
Brom the Barbarian; AC: 16 (T 12, FF 14, Raged 14), CMD: 18 (20 Raged); HP: 15/15 (17/17 Raged) Wednesday November 16th, 2011 8:06:59 PM
Brom is quiet during most of the ordeal with the sailor. He figures anything he adds would only be for his own comfort.
He goes up to Peza and holds out an arm, "You got some guts. Well done."
Peza Wednesday November 16th, 2011 8:55:46 PM
Watching as Crag ends Hmanas's life .....she knows it must be done ... the horror he would become ... is no way to live .... she nods at the dwarf in agreement of what he has saved the sailor from becoming ... but tears still stream down her face ....
As Brom extends his mighty arm ... she peers up at him and smiles ... " thanks " as she grabs hold and lets him pull him to her feet ....
Walking over to her dropped crossbow she picks it up .... acknowledging Artus's king words .. " sorry for the loss of one of your crew "
At a loss for words after that ... Peza steps next to the guardrail .... staring out at the horizen .....lost in her thoughts ...
Gerox Shale Wednesday November 16th, 2011 11:24:58 PM
Gerox holds up the items and says, "Looks like all of these are magic. I don't have the ability to identify them. Does anyone? If not, we might have to try and figure them out the old fashion way."
Gerox looks at Artus and asks, "So what is the plan on the island. Are we going back to forage for food? Can we go to a different side and try and sneak in? How big is the island anyway?"
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 15 (T 11, FF 13), CMD: 18; HP: 16/16Character Sheet Thursday November 17th, 2011 8:09:26 AM
The bolt strikes and Barratore jumps, so involved in the horror unfolding under his very hands, he did not notice Crag or hear his intentions. Spiining quickly on his knee towards the dwarf, it taks less than a moment for his brain to catch up and with his shoulders slumping he stands up. He offers a short prayer as the sailor slides into the depths.
Barratore walks over to investigate what Harvest is up to and from his vantage point he quickly decides that right where he was, is quite close enough. Eat? gods did she just say that? "Not even Gargul himself could make me eat that girl." Barratore grunts spits on the deck, away from Harvest, and then walks off to where Geox and Crag are speaking about the task of going to shore.
"We should push on further from this beach before heading to shore." picjing up the last part of the others thoughts, "Agreed, come in from a different side."
Looking to Crag, "Can we afford to pass up this chance to get food?" He looks to Artrus and Crag for the answer to that one.
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 Thursday November 17th, 2011 8:10:07 AM
"I have no way to identify any magic items."
Crag waits to see if anyone can identify the magic, and what Artus wishes to do regarding the island.
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 Thursday November 17th, 2011 8:25:48 AM
"Well Barratore, I have no way of making food, but i can purify what we eat so that even spoiled food will not make us sick. So I guess unless we catch it, or already have it on board, we aren't adding to the supplies."
Crag turns to Artus. "How are we on supplies? Do we need to risk this island? Do you have an idea of how big it is? If we do plan on landing somewhere, I would suggest sending in a bird first again to see if the flying heads are there as well."
Lemick 4-Leaf Sted/Anthony hp 9/9, ac 20/12/18 Thursday November 17th, 2011 12:04:41 PM
Lemick is disappointed that he could not do more for the man, but agrees the crew did the most honorable thing for the man.
He watches in detail as the creature is dissected, and hopes the group doesn't need to return to the island. One bite was all it took, and time was very short before the transformation began. Without protections, seemed starving was a better risk.
"I can't make food either, but is there a way we could catch more food? Could we drag a net behind us for a bit, catching some fish?"
Gerox Shale Thursday November 17th, 2011 7:51:42 PM
Gerox will put the ring on his finger to see if anything happens. He will then try to take it back off. If that works, he will open the scroll to see if it is anything he understands.
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al d20+10=14 ; d20+10=12 ; Friday November 18th, 2011 2:07:01 PM
Harvest Moon pauses in her cleaning duties to wander to Gerox Shale's side. Testing these things that are magic seems very worthwhile. Very carefully, Harvest Moon unstops first one and then the other of the two potions. With the tip of her smallest finger, she takes a drop and places it upon her tongue.
Each has a distinct and very interesting taste. However, as to what such tastes mean in so far as the magic that they would bring is a thing that eludes the half-elven girl.
Just as carefully as she had unstopped the vials, Harvest Moon replaces the corks.
DM SteveK - Bat-winged Head Treasure Friday November 18th, 2011 5:04:16 PM
Artus makes an assessment at the urging of the heroes. "We've been getting some good fishing so far, and with Master Crag there able to make water daily, I don't think we need to chance this island to get provisions. I say we keep going."
Harvest's investigation takes several of her companions aback, but the rag-clad girl knows that you can rarely pass up an opportunity for food where there is none to be had. Still, the pungent, otherworldly scent is enough to have her get a pail of seawater and wash the creature from the decks. Maybe in time Harvest will learn more about the monstrous creatures that inhabit the Wold.
There is some experimentation with the ring and potions to no avail, and Gerox can't read the scroll either without magical help or study. (ooc: Decipher the Writing: The writing on a scroll must be deciphered before a character can use it or know exactly what spell it contains. This requires a read magic spell or a successful Spellcraft check (DC 20 + spell level). Deciphering a scroll is a full-round action.)
Artus provides the WLAers with a strong, water-tight chest. "You can put your magics in this chest and I'll give you the key. Perhaps if we ever find the Fixer Fleet, they'll be able to Identify the magic for you." He then turns to ht ewaters. "In the meantime, let's keep sailing!"
The SeaSprite puts the island to its stern and continues sailing west.
(ooc: Hey all, welcome our new Co-DM, Jonathan Terry! Jonathan is going to take the next scene for Rum, and I hope that you all give him a rousing welcome!)
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 Friday November 18th, 2011 10:20:28 PM
(OOC: Welcome to Rum Jonathon, you've got some pretty big shoes to fill, but I am sure you'll do just fine.)
Crag Hammerfist AC: 18, HP: 11/11, CMD: 13 Friday November 18th, 2011 10:28:23 PM
Crag relaxes at Artus' decision to skip the island, fearing that many or all would die.
He then turns to Gerox. "Gerox, can you speak with any bird? I can summon an Eagle, if you can speak to it and tell it what we want, or let me speak to it, we may be able to have a very sharp eyed, high flying scout. If the fleet or land is anywhere around, the Eagle should be able to see it."
0 Lvl: Create Water x3(cx3) 1st Lvl: purify food/water(c), Summon Monster I, Enlarge Person(d)
Peza Friday November 18th, 2011 10:50:54 PM
The raven haired girl is sullen for awhile after the sailors death ... but her spirits rise the farther they leave the island behind .....
having no experience with magics .... Peza lets those with more intrest in them investiagte the found treasure ....
Welcome Jonathon !! ;-)
Co-DM Jonathan - Westward as the wind blows Friday November 18th, 2011 11:29:15 PM
OOC: thanks for your welcome. I hope to continue the good work. Be patient as I get broken in. Picking things up in the middle aint easy. :) My nautical terms aren't quite as good as SteveK's but I'll try. I may need to get out my Cutty Sark model kit box and study the assembly manual. Although I get the impression the Cutty Sark has about 3 or 4 masts too many and my assembly manual for the USS Constitution has more cannons than the Seasprite.
Continue posting thru the weekend as much as you like and I'll pick things up on Monday and go from there. I'll add any tid-bits this weekend as needed.
Your noobie Co-DM Jonathan. : }
Co-DM SteveK: The SeaSprite is a 95 foot sloop based on the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater on this link: SeaSprite I have a grided version of the deckplan, but only in my work computer :-( I can get it to you on Tuesday. My biggest fault, being a procrastinator!
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al Saturday November 19th, 2011 9:59:46 AM
Harvest Moon heaves a secret sigh of relief as Halfling Navigator Artus Morindim decides that it would be best to move on. Not to land upon the island. There had been thirty or more of the Batwinged-Heads. The threat of being overwhelmed by thirty or more of any creature would be great.
"Wait, please." Harvest Moon comes to the chest before the magic things have been placed within. She holds out her hands. "Please let me try one more time," she says.
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Perception to Identify both potions 20 (Taking 10 / Try Again)
Welcome Jonathan! Um ... you aren't, perchance, going to poison us, are you? ^_^
Harvest Moon (AC17/T17/F14; HP10/10; CMD 18) - Al Saturday November 19th, 2011 10:01:50 AM
OoC: By the way, I placed a link to both Steve's basic design for the SeaSprite and the Gridded version on the Rum Woldipedia site. I've been keeping it somewhat updated with NPC's and such.
Visit when you have time.
Gerox Shale Saturday November 19th, 2011 10:40:32 PM
(ooc Jonathon welcome! I am sure you will do great.)
Gerox refrains from putting his precious into the chest but murmurs to it while lovingly stoking it. He will try figure it out examining it for lettering. Trying to fly, jump around, and can even be seen sputtering after he sticks his head in a bucket of water trying to breathe.
He will mock spar with anyone to see if it seems more difficult to hit him with it on, see if his wounds from his mock sparring heal more quickly and go a day without food to see if he gets hungry. Anything work?
co-DM SteveK: with a great deal of expirimentation, Gerox has discovered the ring's magic properties: a Ring of Protection +1.
Co-DM Jonathan - Westward as the wind blows Saturday November 19th, 2011 11:12:33 PM
OOC: Thanks SteveK. Link was good. A long time ago I played a bard upon a Drakkar. His chanting helped the rowers go faster. :) Thus he got out of having to row. HA!
I was able to view the Sea Sprite. Thanks Al. That was great. Don't be fearful of my inquiries on Poison in the L&B, that was for Hook City. :) But... well... now that you've brought it up... uh... who knows? heh.
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