Building the Post d20+10=18 ; Thursday November 8th, 2012 10:57:25 PM
Yngvar finds the Trading Post has no poles 10 feet in diameter. The large tree the group brought back that was used for the balista was the largest single timber available. Most of the rest of it has now been used to repair the magic hole made to the wall. Even before it was cut though, it was smaller than 10' around. Creating dyes i would put to a profession tailor or painter
Ragnarok, beginning to feel more than a bit restless after having walked the post for the 100th time decides to step out for a bit. The Mesa spreads out in every direction except north. As the Post sits on the northern edge. There are no large trees as found in the jungle below, but 20-30' can be accomplished within about 100 yards. The grasses sway in the light breeze and extend as far as the monk can see. Somewhere out in the miles of open land are hyenas and who knows what else.
Griffin gets a meeting with Pen easy enough. The gnome Administrator points at a chair and puts away the book he was writing in to listen. "Ummm, I am truly unsure on any of that. I would contact Mr. Randolph in Floating City as my first move. As far as costs and such, luring people to the wilds of Cthonia without magical transit is a challenge at best." Pen pulls out a scroll, inks his quill and looks to Griffin, "What do you want the advertisement to say? I will send a separate notice with your permission of Mr. Randolph to negotiate in good faith in your stead." Pen then looks at her, studying the woman for a bit, "I also have to ask. What project do you want permission to get started and on the engineer side, have you talked to Patterson?"
With the Hole repaired, the residents get back to their own goods. Nathanial and Gazzy spend much time in the fields away from others or in her currently closed alchemical shop with the newly installed shutters closed. Lerangris spends much of her time relaxing out front of her general store. Borcht and his sister mill wheat into flour and bake bread and hard tack. Nugde and Patterson play chess. Risca is hard at work on Asteron's weapon as well as replacing nails and other more blacksmith consumables. So it goes for a couple more days.
One morning during breakfast at the Inn, Nathanial makes it a point to shake hands with each of the heroes and officially say his 'Until next time' "I know I planned to leave far sooner, but things came up." he glances to Gazzy and smiles slightly. "But today is the day, be packing up and heading out just after breakfast." He hands Ragnarok a small pouch of coin. "Your share" Ragnarok Highlight to display spoiler: {500gp} Nathanial then nods to Raven, Ellie and Artrius who seem to be pretty much packed up. "I'll meet you at the gate in just a few moments. One last stop." With that, the Hunter heads out the door and to Gazzy's. Risca excuses himself shortly and trails after, "I got that blade sharpened, hold on and let me grab it."
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 d20+9=21 ; Thursday November 8th, 2012 11:36:58 PM
Faust thinks to himself that it's funny to see Nathanial and Gazzy on friendly terms, but doesn't dwell too much on the thought, but he does drop the line at some point when the party is at the table dining, finding it funny how such a odd and not exactly friendly fellow is suddenly involved with the local alchemist, who seems about as reclusive; adding jokingly that maybe they bunched together so they can keep each other company while they stay alone.
As Griffin asks if he wants help for the supplies, he nods in agreement, considering that he was about to see if he could get some poison supplies around anyway. "Sure, I could use some help, hopefully we can find something interesting around."
He doesn't plan to venture out of the walls more than a couple hours, however, only going to areas considered to be safe enough to venture alone if needed; the last thing the outpost needs is an injured drow.
I'll take 10 on the Knowledge(nature) check to gather materials needed for poisons (no poison in particular, will gather anything that seems useful and can be stored for couple days)
And Perception for good measure (+9): 21 (darkvision)
(Josh) Meranus Stormhorn AC 17/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 33/38 Thursday November 8th, 2012 11:54:27 PM
Wearing a pin, Meranus emerges from the leader's wall. While taur do not go pale, his fur is standing on end and his eyes and nose are flared wide open. Turning slowly, he examines the wall and places his hand through the portal. Withdrawing his hand, he takes off the pin and flinches as he punches the wall. He will then spend the next fifteen minutes zombie-walking back to his room, locking his door, and never coming out.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14/14/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 12/16 Friday November 9th, 2012 1:30:27 AM need poles 10' in length, only an inch or two in diameter
Yes that makes sense. Should have asked or guessed. Anyway. Ten foot planks can be had. Quickly sharpened to stay in the ground and there you go
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple d20+7=22 ; Friday November 9th, 2012 1:30:32 AM
Rangarök smiles at Griffin's offer to walk a bit together. As they quietly walk around the Outpost the Monk casts a sneaky eye on the tall think looking lady. Her blond hair and steelblue eyes could bewitch many men's heart. As she brings teh subject to the why Ragnarök is hear he shrugs his shoulders.
"When I left the Dojo where I trained to become a Monk I had no clear goal yet... to find likeminded followers... to explore the wonders of the Wold... and for some reason I ended up here so Alemi must have a purpose for me here. Yet why he brought me here I do not know yet... there is much violence here... much anger... much danger... in time I'm sure I will find my purpose out here. As for now, I consider it a test..."
Thankful for her company Ragnarök goes back inside the outpost with Griffin.
A few days later, as Nathanial seems to be ready for leaving, Ragnarök eyeballs the strange hunter. He did keep his promiss about his share for retreiving the eggs... what has been his purpose out here.
"Take care out there friend. May the road ahead bring you good fortune."
Sense Motive: 22
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 18/11/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 31/31 -- Rage 14/14 Friday November 9th, 2012 12:24:22 PM
After Nathaniel, Gazzy and Risca leave, Asteron tells the rest of the party in a voice that does not carry to others: "Nathaniel and Risca have something brewing, and it seems that Gazzy may also be part of it. Does any of you know what is going on?" He pauses for a moment, before adding: "If not, does any of you have the skills to find out?"
Asteron is quite sure something was stolen and they are not being told what it was. "Not that I don't trust those three; on the contrary, I like them a lot. But they are hiding something from us, and we might better do our job if we knew what it was. Does anyone have any ideas?" - - - - - OOC: Sorry for missing posting time yesterday. Things are a little hectic down here with the earthquake and all.
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 Friday November 9th, 2012 2:41:44 PM "Well, any of us have the skills for that, we just have to ask...but if they are keeping information from us, there must be a reason for that...maybe we should consult supreme commander Pen before inquiring further?"
"If he admits that we're being left out of something but gives us a decent enough explanation that'd be enough for me."
He pauses and scratches his head, "And besides...I wouldn't want a stinking light elf or underground drow and a bunch of random newcomers poking around my stuff; so I just assume they feel the same way."
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 17/14/13 -- CMD 18 -- HP 12/23 Friday November 9th, 2012 7:11:17 PM "I agree. I trust Gazzy and Risca, and whatever they're planning wouldn't cause any harm to the post. Nathanial seems trustworthy as well. I'd let them reveal it to us when they decide too. We could ask Pen, but I wouldn't pressure him for it." He also makes sure to say his final goodbyes to all of the former group and Artrius.
Griffin AC 18 CMD 17 d20+8=12 ; Monday November 12th, 2012 2:33:55 PM
When able she will spend her time trying to get to understand the people of the fort and spend some time with them making she self welcome, when she runs into the group talking about the fort she will add this to the conversation
I am not sure what to say here, but I don't think that breaking into a persons home or sneaking around while there talking is going to make it easier to work with them or make them trust us. I mean would you trust all your secrets to a bunch or total strangers even one with good intent
To pen she says well let us see I was looking to build a building and sure up the defenses that may be more them the residents can do in short time that I would like, but I will leave the ad's to you as you are the expert in that area, but basically I need to build a few things here that's all they really need to know right now . as for Patterson I was sure that he was busy with the others making thing for the fort so I was not going to bother him right now with the tasks that I require
when she is walking with the monk she will stay close and nods when he talks giving him a wink when she leaves him talk some more later friends
While walking around with Faust she looks for the things that the alchemist points out and what is your story sir alchemist what brings you here ? and a bit of other small talk that will pass the time
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 Monday November 12th, 2012 4:42:10 PM "My story's much less dramatic and complicated than my trade, liking to burn living things and skin color would suggest."
"As I mentioned before, I bailed early on the fears of my family's trade going under, came here looking for coin and to inflate my name, write a few books about the creatures or whatever turns out to be noteworthy from around here...about my theories that if said out loud would make me sound like a complete lunatic to the studied and a demonic witchdoctor to the common folk..."
He pauses and scratches the back of his neck, "Anyway...that's the sum of it...saw no future in the Float, came here for adventure and coin, that's it. Don't get me wrong, I'm not a bad guy that'd do anything for money it's just...well, a good deed feels better if I get something out of it...you're a merchant...or something, I'm sure you understand the feeling."
"But what about you? What brings you to the Wold's hungry maw?"
Nathanial, Raven, Ellie and Artrius Monday November 12th, 2012 6:23:26 PM
Several of the party members note and mention the seemingly odd behavior of Gazzy, Nathanial and Risca, but decide against acting overtly. All decide that none of them, well at least Gazzy and Risca, would do anything against the interest of the post. One of the advantages of such close living quarters and a small population. The group does ask Pen and the gnome administrator raises a quizzical eyebrow knowing nothing of what the group is asking about. "I don't get out much. Barely even seen Gazzy over the last few days. You got thoughts, act on them. You guys are in charge of this type of thing. I'm here to get the goods and money moving and make sure our benefactors don't get robbed blind."
Ragarok picks up a vibe, a hunch. Nathanial has something brewing, but what the old hunter is up to and how the local alchemist and weapon smith are involved the monk has no ideas.
Yngvars project is well underway.
Near the Trading Post itself, Faust cannot find anything that he knows of that could be converted to poison. Venturing more than a couple miles from the Trading Post on the Mesa top is extraordinarily dangerous. Venturing into the jungle by a few hundred yards can be lethal.
The four leave the post, fairly well armed and having purchased and packed a good deal of supplies for the 2 week trip downriver. "Nathanial says we'll hit the way stations to rest every couple days." Ellie assures the group. "He and I are both confident we have enough firepower to hold off or handle anything we might meet." with that the foursome head down the lift and into the jungle to the river
In the meeting with Griffin earlier..... Pen nods to Griffin, "Very well. I will send the message. Should take about 30 days for a response. In the mean time we can work out the details of your plot purchase and claim. The workers might not need to know why they are coming and how long they are staying, but I do."
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 18/11/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 31/31 -- Rage 14/14 Monday November 12th, 2012 7:38:58 PM
As the outpost seems to be getting back on track, Asteron begins to get restless. It is one thing to repair and help out, but an entirely different one to sit and do nothing. I hope we are goven an assignment soon, muses the Taur, otherwise I will get as rusty as an iron ax under the rain.
The hornless minotaur does hope that either his new companions or Pen speak soon. Meanwhile he spends as much time as he can at the forge's bellows. That, at least, is good exercise.
(Josh) Meranus Stormhorn AC 17/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 33/38 Monday November 12th, 2012 11:48:09 PM
Meranus leaves his room and looks around the trading post for Yngvar. Not thinking to ask around for his location, he instead walks around until he finds the smallest one. On more than one occasion, he will become lost in thought and walk straight into a building.
Once he finds Yngvar, he immediately starts, "I've been to the Catacombs. Again. Explain to me how this is possible. I'm listening. And tell me how, if the simplest answer is usually correct, there can be answers besides this 'Magic.'"
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple Tuesday November 13th, 2012 1:32:17 AM
Ragnarök has an odd feeling as he watches Nathanial and the others leave. Even though they are well armed the Monk somehow wonders if and when they will meet again. Perhaps they should have gone with them?! After all, that would effectively have been much more exiting than sitting around the Outpost all day!
Argh such sombre thoughts. Nothing some good old mediation can't remedie. And so the Monk spends hours practising, meditating and observing...
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14/14/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 12/16 Tuesday November 13th, 2012 2:12:53 PM
Yngvar smiles up at Meranus, "My friend, there are some things you must take on trust, or faith. You have faith that the sun will rise every morning in the east, and set in the west. You can not hold air, but you trust that it will continue to provide you the breath of life. You have seen how a bird can fly, but you can not. Magic is more than praying to a god or knowledge of secret energies, it is all about us. Even with magic there are rules, and limits. This magical haversack, it to has rules and limits. It may be bigger on the inside, but it is still just a bag."
Customers, hopefully Tuesday November 13th, 2012 11:28:28 PM
Several more very uneventful days pass and several are on the verge of going stir crazy. Perhaps a run into the jungle would be just the thing. Poisonous plants, flesh eating kobolds, viscious little raptors. Could be fun. Risca is about halfway through with creating the weapon for Asteron Yngvar is complete with his great mural. Pen has sent a message to Floating City on behalf of Griffin to Mr Randolph to inquire about her hiring some laborers to move to the Trading post for a long term build project. Gazzy is still working on cleaning up her shop and still insists on doing it on her own. Life at the Trading Post seems to be in a holding pattern. The longer term residents seem to be basking in the downtime. It has been a fast paced few weeks. Not worrying for their lives for a few days seems to agree with them.
All things do come to an end though. It's been 3 days since Nathanial and the others left. Nudge calls down from one of the towers in the late afternoon that company is coming. Looks like a small hunting party of 5 men and 3 pack animals and a pair of dogs. With that, Nudge descends the tower and heads for his and Risca's smithy. A spring in his step and a sparkle in his eye. The news spreads fast and everyone's mood instanty improves across the post, customers. Pen exits the Administration building and heads to the front gate calling out, "Asteron, Meranus. I could truly use your assistance at the gate. Not built to terribly friendly from a gnomes perspective you know"
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple Wednesday November 14th, 2012 1:44:32 AM
Ragnarök's heart jumps up with the prospect of something happening again. Not wanting to stand in the way of Meranus and Asteron as they take guard by the gate, the monk remains a bit in the shades.
"They don't appear to have negative intentions coming here through the open roads. No need to take an aggressive stance. Let's step outside and hail their coming."
Griffin AC 18 CMD 17 d20+11=13 ; Wednesday November 14th, 2012 1:19:51 PM
Griffin will join the group in welcoming the hunters to the fort but off to the side as well all be it not well for mid afternoon sneak 13
(Josh) Meranus Stormhorn AC 17/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 33/38 Wednesday November 14th, 2012 5:32:21 PM "....What? Oh. Right." Meranus snaps back to reality and follows Pen. He will get lost in thought and keep walking once Pen stops, though...
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 18/11/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 31/31 -- Rage 14/14 d20=5 ; d20=16 ; Wednesday November 14th, 2012 6:22:51 PM
Asteron snaps to attention as Pen mentions his name. "By your command! He is at least glad that the routine has changed. As he follows the gnome, he readies bow and arrow, just in case.
"They are probably just a small and friendly caravan, but I would hate to see them attacked when they are so close to safety," he says to Meranus. "And an arrow can travel much quicker than I can" - - - - - Knowledge(nature): 5+6= 11 -> to look for the best spot for those approaching to be ambushed. Perception: 16+8= 24 -> to look for possible ambushers.
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 d20+9=16 ; d20+8=14 ; Wednesday November 14th, 2012 9:33:04 PM
Faust mutters to himself while walking around the outpost right before the visitors are spotted: "Ok...note to self...gather some useful seeds to plant around the place..."
Once the strangers are announced, Faust shrugs and quickly mixes one of his extracts, ready to chug it down once the visitors are about to enter the outpost, adding the comment: "Better put on my good socks, eh?"
Prepared a Disguise Self extract to look like the normal surface elf version of Faust, just to avoid any awkward questioning (duration 30 mins).
Still, eyeing the visitors carefully out of sheer paranoya.
Perception (+9): 16 (darkvision) Sense Motive (+8): 14
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 17/14/13 -- CMD 18 -- HP 12/23 d20+7=25 ; Thursday November 15th, 2012 9:49:15 AM
(Sorry for not having posted yet this week. Registration for classes kind of crept up behind me and I've been scrambling to get everything in order. Should be fine now, but again, I apologize for the lack of posts.)
Toregan, thankful for something that breaks the monotony of the past few days, climbs into one of the towers with his crossbow at his side, making sure to watch for any suspicious activity. Perception (+7): 25
Customers, hopefully Thursday November 15th, 2012 11:54:59 AM
Post will be around ten pm mountain tonight. Sorry
Griffin AC 18 CMD 17 d20+11=14 ; d20+8=10 ; Thursday November 15th, 2012 2:54:15 PM
Griffin will wait and see what the group does but will hope no one sees her
thinking to her self we need a bolt hole in the fort
sneak 14 perception 10
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14/14/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 12/16 Thursday November 15th, 2012 3:49:19 PM
Yngvar joins Toregan in the tower, his own crossbow at the ready.
"A few days of peace and quiet was rather relaxing. Much better than somethign trying to have you for lunch."
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 17/14/13 -- CMD 18 -- HP 12/23 Thursday November 15th, 2012 10:15:31 PM
Toregan grins at Yngvar's remark. "Very relaxing, though I do like informing the locals that we aren't part of the menu."
Customers, hopefully Friday November 16th, 2012 12:07:06 AM
Most of the group gathers about the main gate as they are swung open. Griffin a bit more discreeet and Torregan from one of the towers. The men walk up leading thier pack animals and the dogs on ropes. They wave as they close to fifty feet and one calls out in friendly greeting. Pen waves and calls back in kind and soon the men enter the Post.
The four of them look as if they have been in th wilds of the jungle for sometime though the pack animals have little on them. Each wears studded leather, carries sometype of bow and has a blade at thier side. Pen quickly learns that that have come from Town and much to his dismay, is where they sold most of thier skins, meat and other trophies from thier hunts.
The men make thier way to the Inn and get a pair of rooms and do appear to plan on speaking with folks around the post to see what mugh be for sale and what might still be sold by the hunters.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple d20+7=27 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+7=25 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+7=25 ; Friday November 16th, 2012 3:38:50 AM
... a second group of adventurers ... there can only be one lion on the mountain ... hopefully this goes well ...
Of course Ragnarök is keen on hearing where these hunters hail from but before he goes to talk with them he'd like to get a feeling if they are in fact who or what they claim to be and if their intentions are good. He follows them into the Inn and looks for a place where he can keep an eye on them without drawing too much attention to himself.
Sense motive on all 5 men: 27 (nat 20), 27 (nat 20), 25, 24, 25 OoC Argh!!! crazy rolls!! why can't I roll like this when it actually matters!!??!!
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 18/11/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 31/31 -- Rage 14/14 d100=76 ; d20=9 ; d20=3 ; Friday November 16th, 2012 12:09:06 PM
Asteron keeps quiet, a bit behind and to the left of Pen. The gnome might not be too imposing, but he sure looks a few inches taller when backed up by the armed and armored Minotaur... or so Asteron thinks. This may be what it seems... or it may be a ruse to take us from within, Asteron muses, and if it is this last, we better keep our eyes peeled, and our ears open. - - - - - OOC: Please forget the d100... it was not what I was aiming for. Perception: 9+8= 17 to notice anything out of the ordinary. Knowledge(nature): 3+6= 9 to do the same.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14/14/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 12/16 Friday November 16th, 2012 12:26:36 PM
As everyone settles down, Yngvar returns to the inn and settles down at his table. He realizes it's rather funny that he and the others keep forgetting why they are here. Pen is an administrator that advises and works under them. "Good morning, Haggard, Hope. Fiar greetings! I'll take a platter of whatever you have ready and a pitcher of mead please."
Pulling out a map of the outpost, he starts looking for how they can fit another building into it easily, after all, he doesn't want to be staying at the inn all the time.
He asks Toregan to join him. "I don't know about you, but some more permanent quarters are in order, especially if we are going to be spending a significant amount of time here. Not sure who planned the outpost, but the way the buildings were laid out is defensibly horrible, too many blind corners. Anyway, I'm thinking either a series of individual bungalows, or a single larger building with suites. Each has its own advantages. And I am sure that Haggard would love to get the 'taurs out from under his roof."
Yngvar gestures to a couple areas on his map, "either the northwest or northeast corners will work nicely. A single larger building should go in the northwest corner, and if we do individual buildings, then the northeast corner would be better."
During the discussion Yngvar is keeping an eye out for when the traders are done settling in. He plans to call them over for an early dinner while he can ask them about their recent travels through Cthonia.
(Josh) Meranus Stormhorn AC 17/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 33/38 Friday November 16th, 2012 7:08:58 PM
Meranus is still out by the front of the trading post, looking very intently at the empty space in front of him.
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 d20+8=27 ; d20+9=18 ; Friday November 16th, 2012 11:07:46 PM
Faust notices Meranus acting aloof, but dismisses the thought due to being more interested in the newcomers, which he follow to the inn, trying to keep a tight watch for when the extract is about to go out so he can take his leave before that happens.
He grabs a mug of ale with Haggard and sits near the newcomers' table, "So...what brings the lot of you to this merry place of everlasting joy?", he inquires.
Sense Motive (+8): 27 Perception (+9): 18 (darkvision)
Griffin AC 18 CMD 17 Friday November 16th, 2012 11:12:31 PM
Griffin will follow the group to the to the inn and sit with Yngvar, add a order of that for me as well Sir Haggard
When Yngvar comments on building permanent housing well as a matter of fact I was thinking something a bit along that line already and have just sent for some workers to help out in building it
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14/14/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 12/16 Saturday November 17th, 2012 1:09:19 PM "I think I would have preferred settlers or immigrants to workers. You are having to pay to get them here? then to return them?"
Customers d20+10=25 ; Saturday November 17th, 2012 8:33:32 PM
The group of men greet Pen and give quick introductions, Malcom, Arnet, Uthgart, and Rendis. They keep a fairly wary eye on Asteron as well as note Meranus and Torregan and one of them nods towards Griffin. Other than that, they seem straightforward enough, their hands away from weapons and nothing in their body language gives Faust or Ragnarok pause. It is very evident however that Faust is not the first drow they have seen. None seem to even bat an eye at his presence anymore than Risca being a dwarf or Pen a gnome
Securing rooms with Haggard and and stabling for the pack animals and dogs they take of their first order of business, trade. With some skins and sacks they head out to make some rounds across the post. The hit the General Store and Lerangris, Bast's brewery, Patterson at the church, Gazzy and her alchemical shop and finally Risca and the weapons shop.
Meanwhile Yngvar brings most of the group in to discuss the thought of erecting some actual quarters. Griffin lets the group know she has similar plans in motion to get labor for a project she has in mind.
Later, Yngvar sits down with Malcom, Arnet, Uthgart, and Rendis for an early supper and conversation. The men oblige easily enough and order very hearty meals as well as some of the best porter that Haggard has from Bast. The basics of their tale is they came in from Floating City maybe 2 months ago. Hunting and treasure trip. Arnet had heard some locals have quite an abundance of gold ore. There is also the prospect of rare animal hide and exotic plants. To where they were and how successful the men are vague. Malcom, the leader, explains that they do not want knowledge of the best spot to fish getting out. They hit Town on the northern mesa a few days ago and if Uthgart hadn't picked up a last trail and then spotted the lift they would likely have not come by. Which, he adds, would have been a deep shame. The goods, prices and people so far in this post are far better than anything you can get in Town. "Downright a cestpool, but we thought it was the only option." says Arnet. "I'd heard of some other post, but had also heard it was destroyed. Some Gate explosion on the Float."
The group plans to get a good nights rest and then take the river back to the Float in the morning
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 18/11/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 31/31 -- Rage 14/14 Sunday November 18th, 2012 10:31:24 PM
Asteron listens without saying much. He knows that public relations are not his forte. He is intrigued by the prospect of the group trading with the outpost, as it would be good for the settlement, and thus indirectly good for him. Still, he quietly volunteers to take the night watch, just in case. There is something about the group that he can't quite just trust. Is it him? Or is there really something there? - - - - - Asteron will stand watch the last 8 hours of the night. He takes a nap in the afternoon, so that he will be at his best.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple d20+9=29 ; d20+9=15 ; d20+9=22 ; d20+9=17 ; Monday November 19th, 2012 1:41:57 AM "I will stand guard with you Master Asteron.", Ragnarök offers when Asteron decides to stand watch.
As they patrol around the compound Ragnarök observes the hornless Minotaur and asks, "What brings you to this forsaken place?"
"I myself don't understand why Alemi has put me here... I don't know what I am to do here in this Outpost. But maybe just that is what he wants me to find out... I'm constantly questioning myself what to do... should I go outside and walk straight into the Wild? Should I go with this new group out hunting? Does he want me to stay in the outpost and protect these good people?"
Casting a sideways look at the quiet Minotaur he quickly adds, "Sorry... I'm just rambling am I not..."
Couple of Perception roles during watch Perception: 29 (Nat20), 15, 22, 17
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14/14/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 12/16 Monday November 19th, 2012 2:35:27 PM
Having finished the basic premise of his idea, Yngvar lines the poles up against the canvas and ties them in place before carefully rolling the entire bit into a bundle. More than he would like to carry himself, but hopefully he can talk Meranus into carrying it the next time they head out to the plains.
Later that day he asks Toregan and Meranus to give him a hand, he wants to check the bottom of the well and make sure the plug in the side cavern is still undisturbed.
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 17/14/13 -- CMD 18 -- HP 12/23 Monday November 19th, 2012 4:55:20 PM
Toregan descends the tower and returns to the inn when it appears all is well. Moving over to Yngvar, he nods in agreement for the idea of more permanent housing. "Yes, it would definitely help out Haggard to move out of his rooms once the Post gets up and running. Not sure about one or multiple buildings though. I don't really have a preference, though the others might. We should also take into account how much material is needed for each plan. I'd go with the one that needs less."
Toregan listens to the men and their exploits, wanting to hear more of their hunts and the manner of beasts they brought down. He inquires about any remarkable or unique hunts they've had in the jungles. At the mention of an explosion, Toregan grimaces. "Th-that was us. Still d-d-don't know what happened. Lucky we g-g-got to the P-Post alive."
When Yngvar calls him over to the well to help, he volunteers to go down first, cold iron dagger in his off hand, and his rapier in his main.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 18/11/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 31/31 -- Rage 14/14 d20=5 ; d20=16 ; d20=10 ; d20=19 ; Monday November 19th, 2012 8:52:20 PM
Asteron finds Ragnarök's company and conversation pleasant. "I could say that a series of events has brought me here, but that would be only part of the truth. I believe t would be more precise to say that fate has brought me here, so that I learn the meaning of existence for a Minotaur with no horns". Asteron takes his hat of and shows a perfectly formed Tauren head, but with no signal of even a stub.
"As for why this particular outpost, I am repaying a debt with my service. I have found it... too quiet... the last few days, but in a sense that is good: no unnecessary deaths. I am sadly certain that will soon change, though. The one thing this place is full of is danger. Danger, and something I can't quite grasp. But there is more to this place than meets the eye, I can almost taste it!"
As they patrol the compound, Asteron keeps alert, looking for signs of trouble. - - - - - Perception: 13, 24, 18, 27
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 Monday November 19th, 2012 10:12:28 PM "Hum, hum, hum...", nods Faust to himself while listening to the newcomers' talk, as he sees no reason to keep distrusting them at all, he relaxes and stops dissecting them with his glare.
"Shame indeed...I'm not the man in charge, but it's easy to tell that capable hunters could certainly be useful to have around. Wouldn't mind to hear about exotic beasts' tales or look at such beasts' valuable parts, such as unordinary bones, poison glands and the such. After all, who knows if I will ever have the opportunity to cross said creatures' path, much less survive to write the tale."
As everyone scatters to do something else, Faust will wander rather aimlessly through the outpost, but will ultimately stick to Yngvar, Toregan and Meranus in hopes of understanding what are they up to.
Griffin AC 18 CMD 17 Monday November 19th, 2012 10:21:05 PM
Griffin will spend some time getting to know the one that nodded her way flirting heavily, seeing what information she can learn
Druids at the Gates Tuesday November 20th, 2012 8:24:51 AM
The hunters seem polite and open enough and except for watning to keep where they were a secret, they are willing to discus anything else. This is their 4th expedition as a group and all of them have been in with other groups at least 3 other times. It's dangerous stuff and each of them have tales of disaster, but there is also beauty and wonder to behold in the wilds as well.
Griffin learns the mans name is Arnet and that he is a former member of the Gold Castle watch. Now retired from that duty honorably and has taken up adventuring one could say. Hunter others say. He has known the others for about 8 years and this is his 8th trip into the wilds. "A few more and it will be enough to purchase the silver Ravne on Merchant level and live a life of ease." Shooting Griffin a wink, "When you stop in I'll be sure to not wake you too early."
Ragnarok and Asteron go out for a small patrol and then take up residence in one of the watchtowers for the night
Yngvar asks Torregan and Meranus for a hand making sure the well is still secure and it is found to be so.
Evening wains and night falls with morning following without incident.
The four hunters leave after breakfast at first light with best wishes for a safe journey coming from Haggard and Pen who see them off. The party gathers for breakfast a bit later with the rest of the Trading Post coming in as wel. Most are pretty upset with Risca leading the verbal charge, Nudge shortly behind. "They went to Town cause they thought it was their only option Pen!" the dwarf is practically yelling at th poor shrinking gnome. Nudge chimes in equally as harsh in tone, "Promises were made and don't appear to be being kept. Patterson won't say it cause the old man is too nice, but you are in serious danger of losing the three of us." Pen holds his hands up defensively, "Sirs, I am...was as shocked as you to hear such news and I have already sent a message to Mr Randolph. Remember also that Artrius is enroute as of a few days ago. It is a set back to be sure, but we are not abandoned here." Pen looks sideways to the heroes for support.
But it is at this moment that Anna, Lerangris's eldest bursts into the Inn sreaming and hysterical. "They got a dead body at the gate, they killed her! They killed that Gargul cleric!" Heads spin to the girl, one that all consideer a bit of a snob and too high strung for the wilds. Haggard reaches over th bar and grabs 'Vanguard' Lerangris moves quickly and gracefully to her daughter and puts a calming hand on her, "What are you going on about Anna? The hunters only just left. ." Anna shakes a sobs a bit, overdramatic perhaps, but also clearly shaken. "Not hunters. Druids! At the gate!"
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14/14/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 12/16 Tuesday November 20th, 2012 11:19:49 AM
Yngvar had been enjoying an early breakfast while he was making more notes in his journal. He had plans for that cavity in the well.
At the sound of yet another interruption to his peace and quiet he heads out to the gates with the others. "What's this about a dead cleric?"
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple Tuesday November 20th, 2012 11:52:18 AM
After having spent the night in the watchtower, Ragnarök is happy to find a good breakfast to start the day with. He does not interfere with the ranting about the outpost not being known to other adventurers and quietly finishes another piece of bread with some dried meat.
The moment Anna runs into the Inn and Haggard reaches for his deadly blade, Ragnarök springs to his feet.
"Let's try to talk reason with them from inside the doors first! No need to rush outside... ", and as he points to the blade called 'Vanguard' he says, "we need to know why they are here rather then... "
Ragnarök makes his way towards the gates along with Yngvar, worried the dead cleric they talk about to be one of the adventurers that left earlier this morning. Things like that for sure won't improve the Outpost's appeal...
As he walks towards the gates he grabs a Mage's Armor potion. "Master Yngvar... do you think you would be willing to wield a Wand of Mage Armor for me? Perhaps just prior to any encounter you could use the wand on me? I can only use these potions but they are quite costly compared to the Wand which sadly I can't use... I should check if I can buy one of those."
Griffin AC 18 CMD 17 d20+4=10 ; d20+11=29 ; d20+10=16 ; Tuesday November 20th, 2012 2:43:39 PM
While talking to Arnet Griffin will invite him to her room for the evening and continue there chat there
Arnet that would be nice but who says that I would be asleep * she winks * but I would love to stop by the silver Ravne , if its yours, question before you go though, any thoughts as to what might improve this posts appeal and help bring people here ????
In the morning while at breakfast Griffin will continue to talk to the group about fort Yngvar I see that you were checking on the well any reasons why ? and what is this contraption that you have build for ?
to Toregan when he is talking about building [b] I am sending for some workers, I had though that I would build a store as well as a place that we can call ours, I hope to maybe turn around my poor luck and make it work here,
When the girl runs in with her story There there child calm yourself, how many where there and what is this about a dead priest
To the group griffin says give me a moment to ready myself before you go I want to get ready encase of trouble, that said she will run up and dress in full armour and get her backpack, when done she will travel with them until close to the gate Crap we really need a bolt hole or back door for times like this
if able she will quickly go over the east wall and wait at the north east corner of the fort out of site but close enough to hear (if able) she will ready a arrow and wait
Acrobatics 16 Climb ( if needed 10) stealth 29
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 18/11/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 31/31 -- Rage 14/14 Tuesday November 20th, 2012 4:28:11 PM
Asteron finishes his guard shift but, as he is heading for a well-deserved rest, he is stopped by the commotion caused by Anna saying that the druids have a dead body at the gate. Paying no attention to her screams that they killed the Gargul cleric, he comments in a loud voice as he turns around and heads towards the gate: "If they had killed the cleric, they would have not brought the corpse themselves, risking retaliation. Let's hear what they have to say before swinging any weapons and loosing any magic, shall we?"
He then moves towards the gate, thinking Imod help us! Just what we needed, another death! I just hope clear heads prevail before an arrow is loosened, or a spell is cast. Bringing the cadaver here is not the action of a guilty party!
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 d20+7=25 ; d20+7=21 ; d8+1=6 ; Tuesday November 20th, 2012 8:26:01 PM
Toregan listens to the hunters for as long as they are willing to tell of their travels before heading to bed. In the morning, Toregan decides to not join in the argument. There are far too many reasons why the Post would've been considered lost. However, once Anna bursts in to the inn, Toregan is up in a matter of seconds, crossbow in hand. "If they killed Raven they've got a lot to answer for. I'll be in the tower. Signal me when I'm to fire." He moves around the forge and the stables before heading towards the western tower, trying to avoid being spotted by the druids if the gate was open.
Stealth (+9): 27 Ready action to attack the "druids" if hostilities break out or if he receives a signal of some kind. Attack (+7): 21 Damage (1d8+1): 6
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 d20+9=27 ; d20+8=17 ; Tuesday November 20th, 2012 8:54:24 PM
Faust sighs in frustration as he gives up on eating his breakfast due to the new commotion "Sigh...I rather miss the night-time hyena attack...in retrospect that was sort of fun..."
"Gargul huh? Unfortunate, sounds like Raven...give me a sec to grab my stuff...if these druids really killed her, I have something that might prove useful on the upcoming confrontation."
With that he takes a swift leave to his room and grabs his, now kept tidy, combat equipment, coming right back down; himself staying true to his mind note in keeping his belongings ready for a swift leave and donning his armor nearly 24/7.
Once the group approaches the wall, Faust will look around and keep his ears open for any sign of danger, as well as paying very close attention to whatever the druids say, specially if they claim to be innocent.
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 Tuesday November 20th, 2012 8:55:10 PM Forgot to mention my rolls:
Perception (+9): 27 (darkvision) Sense Motive (+8): 17
Druids at the Gates Tuesday November 20th, 2012 10:56:10 PM
Earlier the previous night,...Arnet rubs his chin, "Not sure really. Post does not seem to have a goldsmith or jeweler of any kind. A lot of tribes about have a tidy some of gold that they need to be parted with."
With Anna still sobbing, Haggard is out the door with 'Vanguard'. The big man glances to Ragnarok as he heads to the gates "Not my intention young man, never is..."
The rest stay right where they are, save Risca again who heads to his weapon smithing shop where a great deal of banging about is soon heard.
Asteron calls for cool heads with Ragarok. "If they had killed the cleric, they would have not brought the corpse themselves, risking retaliation. Let's hear what they have to say before swinging any weapons and loosing any magic, shall we?"
Griffin heads upstairs, but the she can tell the group is not likely to wait the minute she needs to don her armor as they are already heading out.
Torregan heads to one of the towers, "If they killed Raven they've got a lot to answer for. I'll be in the tower. Signal me when I'm to fire."
Faust is to his room and back, weapon bag at the ready, having decided to pretty much always wear his armor at this point.
The group arrives at the gates, which are indeed still closed. A voice calls from the other side. "Open your gate! Hail Post! Open your gate!"
From atop one of the towers can be seen 3 men. They wear skins, are well armed and one of them holds the blodied form of a human before him. The figure is wrapped in a cloak and blanket, but those who traveled with her, recognize the cleric of Gargul, Raven. Another of the men is holding her staff. "Open your Gate! We are hear on a mission of mercy!"
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple d20+9=23 ; d20+7=25 ; Wednesday November 21st, 2012 2:01:36 AM "It's Raven! ... " Ragnarök says to no one else but himself as if he slowly understands the situation at hand. If they have anything to do with her dead they... no... they don't need to be killed even then...
As soon as someone opens the gate to talk to the druids Ragnarök darts outside at a hustle (moving 80 ft as he does) and circles around the three druids... He eyeballs them all while he moves and tries to discern who is the 'leader' of the three.
Perception : 23 Sense Motive : 25
No matter how much it hurts to see Raven... he hopes no one jumps to conclusion right away...
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 d20+7=15 ; Wednesday November 21st, 2012 11:24:56 AM
Toregans eyes narrow at the sight of raven's seemingly lifeless body. "Theres Raven..... But is she dead? I can't tell from this far. But, if they were here to send a message with her body, why bring her staff?" Toregan keeps his crossbow leveled at the druids, just in case they turn out to be hostile after all. He also tries to see any indication of Raven being alive.
Perception (+7): 15
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 d20+9=12 ; d4=1 ; d20+8=12 ; Wednesday November 21st, 2012 12:45:39 PM
Faust thinks for a moment and says in a lower voice so it's only heard by those inside the gates, "Do we have any way to look at them face-to-face without opening the gate?"
"That said, it seems rather unlikely that they're hostile, after all, they have the means to easily penetrate the walls and would most probably strike at night..."
"...still, keep weapons at the ready...no reason to completely trust them quite yet.", he says that while he rummages through his bag and gets one of his thunderstones in hand may they be needed.
Getting the thunderstone ready; Faust will patiently listen to what they have to say without hostility, unless they start something.
Perception (+9): 12 (darkvision) Sense Motive (+8): 12 Ignore the 1d4, using my laptop and accidentally clicked on the trackpad.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14/14/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 12/16 Wednesday November 21st, 2012 6:04:28 PM "As we were reminded, this is a trading post, we must remain open and inviting to guests until reason otherwise is given. Open the gates."
Griffin AC 18 CMD 17 Wednesday November 21st, 2012 9:14:51 PM
Griffin will wait to hear what is going on before acting at this point
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple Thursday November 22nd, 2012 2:40:53 PM
As Yngvar commands the gates to be openend, Ragnarök does as he planned - though not in an aggressive way. (details in yesterday's post)
Griffin AC 18 CMD 17 d20=16 ; d20=11 ; d20=5 ; Thursday November 22nd, 2012 4:50:38 PM
... Continues her plan from yesterday as well to if able go over the wall and stay out of site
Climb 20 stealth 22
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Thursday November 22nd, 2012 6:29:38 PM
Toregan continues to watch the druids, crossbow still steady on his target.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 18/11/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 31/31 -- Rage 14/14 Thursday November 22nd, 2012 8:11:05 PM
Asteron decides to go for broke. As soon as the gates are open, he drops his hammer on the floor, and approaches the three figures slowly, without any sudden movements. "My name is Asteron, and I bear you no ill will. You mentioned a mission of mercy. How may I be of assistance?
Now let's see if I read the situation, and our visitors, right. I am betting my sorry Minotaur shanks here. This last thought makes Asteron smile. - - - - - OOC: Sorry for not posting yesterday. A relative of a very good friend died, and he was out of the country. I had to first locate him, then give him and his wife the news, then make sure that everything that needed to be done was done, until he came back.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14/14/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 12/16 Sunday November 25th, 2012 11:58:43 AM
Once the gates are opened, Yngvar will step forward, "Welcome to the Cthonia Trading Post, I am Yngvar, come in, we would hear your story."
OOC: My condolences. Not as closely, but I once had a brand new employee refuse to provide an emergency contact and then collapse unconscious. Spent the next four hours calling his references and then calling people with the same last name in Florida asking if they knew who he was.
Druids at the Gates Sunday November 25th, 2012 9:45:45 PM
Hope everyone had a great thanksgiving. We will resume regular posting with a DM post tomorrow night
Griffin AC 18 CMD 17 Monday November 26th, 2012 8:01:03 AM
Griffin will hold her spot and wait to see what is said
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 Monday November 26th, 2012 9:21:56 PM
OOC: Don't have anything to add, but I am here!
Druids at the Gates Monday November 26th, 2012 10:07:34 PM
Ragnarok and Toregan both recognize the still form as Raven. Neither can tell if she is alive. Faust inquires quietly if they could talk to discern more without opening the gate,. Yngvar points out that the place is a Trading Post, a place of business and calls for the gates to be opened. Asteron agrees and opens the gates, introducing himself and leaving his weapon behind. Yngvar too, calls out greeting as the gates open while Griffin and the others hold, hoping for the best, but prepared to act if need be. Haggard, Ragnarok notes, has Vanguard at the ready with his feet perfectly spaced to spring in any direction Risca is still donning armor and the sounds of light dwarven cursing and banging metal attests to his efforts to do so quickly.
The Gates Open and the three men begin to stride in, but stop quickly at the view arrayed before them. A hand flashes to a weapon hilt, one takes a small step back, but the man holding Raven merely stops. "Solstice, Keill, Calm yourselves. They are cautious only." His voice is calm and carries an authoritative quality wrapped in a beautiful bass. It is at this point the those closest at the gate, Asteron, Ragnarok, Yngvar and Griffin, note that one of the men. is actually a woman. Her hand moves away from her blade as the man holding Raven speaks, "As you wish Jorhma."
The man continues now speaking to Yngvar and Asteron, "We came upon her a few days ago. She still lived and so, this place is the closest shelter and we brought her here. A miracle she still lives, and from your reactions I place it that you know her." He steps to Ragnarok and makes to give Raven to him as he continues. "I am Jorhma." he scratches an itch on his nose and then points to the woman and man, "Solstice and Keill. May we enter and spend the night?"
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple Tuesday November 27th, 2012 5:07:31 AM
Ragnarök listens to Jorhma speak and as he sees how he brings calm into the hearts of the two others that accompany him he cradles the limp body of Raven. As he holds Raven Ragnarök will hopefully notice if she's still alive or not (body warmth, pulse, breathing...)
"She lives! Yet she stands at Gargul's doorstep this very instance... we need to hurry!"
The Monk immediately takes Raven inside the outpost and leaves the three druids standing at the gates...
"Someone heal her! Hurry!"
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 d20+9=29 ; d8+1=8 ; d20+5=12 ; Tuesday November 27th, 2012 8:12:02 AM "Quickly, allow me.", says Faust in a hurry, stuffing his thunderstone back into his bag as quick as he can and grabbing the CLW wand and rushing to meet Ragnarök and Raven.
He pretty much yanks Raven away from Ragnarök's grasp, placing her carefully on the ground. Before administrating the healing, however, Faust takes a quick, but inquisitive and attentive search at Raven's body, moving cloth out of the way to see her flesh, searching for any wounds that could be responsible for her current situation, after all, who's to say that Raven will be in condition to tell the tale later on?
The search doesn't take longer than a few seconds though, he knows too well that too much information gathering now can be lethal, so he focuses his arcane energy and activates the wand, causing some of Raven's wounds to close, hopefully enough to take her away from Gargul's doors.
Once that's done, he takes a second and calmer look, this time listening to her breath, checking her pulse and temperature, being obvious that the intent now is find out if her condition is stable enough for her to be treated with healing kits and extracts instead of emergency healing.
Perception to look for wounds and the such on Raven's body (+9): 29 (darkvision), natural 20! Healing Raven for 8 points. Heal check to determine whether she's stable now or not (+5): 12 <- not sure if this is applicable, there's no official rules for this sort of action that I could find, but it's a common consensus to throw any "medical check" into Heal
Faust will use more charges if needed to stabilize Raven
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 18/11/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 31/31 -- Rage 14/14 Tuesday November 27th, 2012 9:00:33 AM
Asteron is glad that his instincts had been correct. The three figures standing in front of him have not come with evil intent. Rather, it seemsthat Raven is alive because of their ministrations. We are honor-bound to allow them in. It took them days to get the girl here! The question is: will the others think as I do? Asteron is curious as to what the reactions of the others will be.
"I have no authority here, so I can't say aye or nay. Still," He slowly raises his right hand in a friendly gesture, "you have my thanks for bringing her here, Jormma." He then bows in the direction of the other two. "You too, Solstice and Keill, have my thanks".
Returning his gaze towards Jorhma, the hornless minotaur asks: "Do you know what happened to her?"
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple Tuesday November 27th, 2012 4:00:18 PM
When Faust yanks the injured Raven away from him, Ragnarök is somewhat surprised but he quickly realizes it was Faust, Meranus and Ynvar who travelled with Raven longest...
"Take care of her Master Faust... "
Ragnarök then turns to face the three druids who brought Raven home... wondering why they are here...
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 d20+7=12 ; Tuesday November 27th, 2012 6:46:54 PM
Toregan swallows the urge to climb down the the tower to check on raven, instead staying in his perch, watching the new arrivals carefully. His gratefulness for her survival is quickly overcoming his suspicions of the druids. He tries to make out the conversations below, as to not miss out on any important information.
Perception (+7): 12
Griffin AC 18 CMD 17 d20+7=14 ; Tuesday November 27th, 2012 7:49:54 PM
Not sure what to do about the almost dead creepy priest Grifffin stands out of the way as she has no healing ability or skill.
Griffin turns her attention to the druids {b] Jorhma is it welcome... I am sorry all be it under rather unfortunate circumstance's. Welcome nun the less I am sure we can find a warm bed at the inn for you all. [/b]
Diplomacy 14
Druids at the Gates Tuesday November 27th, 2012 10:28:09 PM
Faust takes Raven froma slightly surprised Ragnarok and lays her body on the ground. He can instantly tell she is indeed alive, but very hurt. The drow activates a healing wand and touches her, with no noticable change. His examination there on the ground at the gate is cursory, but he discovers the entire left side of her face is bruised and caked in blood and she at least has a broken arm. She is unconscious, but stable.
Meranus assists in moving her to the church and Patterson greets them at the door and leads the way to a small back room with a cot and is healing kits. In more private quarters, Fasut is able to conduct a more thorough examine. The fact that Raven is alive is indeed miraculous. Massive bruising, swelling and multiple broken bones relay to the surface drow a great deal of blunt force trauma. Both arms are shattered, one leg is broken, multiple ribs on her left side, fractured skull and a broken jaw.
At the Gate, Asteron offers his thanks and the man known as Jorhma nods in acceptance. Haggard thrusts a meaty hand into Jorhma and offers his thanks as well as well as inviting them to the Inn
The three, with Jorhma in the lead, head towards the Inn. The walk is short, but Jorhma does answer Asteron's question enroute. "We found her under the rubble of one of your Waystations along the river. The entire place was destroyed. Solstice spotted her staff and upon investigating found her under a pile of rock and wood." At the mention of the staff, the man identified as Keill hands it to Ragnarok.
At the Inn, the trio sit and order some food and drink. Jorhma introduces the group fully, "We are Monstrologers. Learned scholars that specialize in the study and in some cases protection of what most of the noble race refer to as monsters. In the thick and diverse world of Cthonia, that mainly falls to Magical Beasts, Vermin and we have also begun studying the carnivorous plant life. We were investigating several recent occurences of Blight Magic which lead us to the river and your friend. Blight Magic is a dark and twisted magic that destroys flora and fauna. Twisting them to evil purpose. Our studies until then, have all bee north of the river in an area no local tribes claim as their own."
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14/14/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 12/16 Wednesday November 28th, 2012 10:40:05 AM
Yngvar settles down at his table and asks Hope to bring out some refreshments for the travelers. "We appreciate your assistance with our companion. Was there no sign of those that traveled with her?"
Yngvar remains friendly and open, "We are not opposed to your positions. If you would like a safe haven fron which to conduct your studies and research, we ask only your assistance in redirecting or relocating any of your subjects that wander too close to the Outpost. Our mandate focuses on trade around products derived from the local flora. We are also looking at developing some trade with the numerous thunder lizards, at a sustainable rate. We have no wish to eradicate them or to infringe much beyond what would be expected in the normal circle of life."
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple d20+9=26 ; Wednesday November 28th, 2012 1:18:17 PM
As the group settles in the Inn for drinks and talks, Ragnarök realizes he isn't of much use. He's not the most diplomatic one around and often would misinterpret the situation.
"I too thank you for bring Raven back... yet now I will leave you talking diplomatics..." he says to the ones sitting around the table with Yngvar.
After a brief check up on Raven, Ragnarök again checks up on the compound defences (spot 26)
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Wednesday November 28th, 2012 5:49:50 PM
Toregan lowers his his crossbow and descends the tower, heading to the church in order to aid Faust however he can. "Do you think she'll recover? We need to know what happened and if the others are alive."
Griffin AC 18 CMD 17 d20+8=18 ; Wednesday November 28th, 2012 8:28:48 PM
Quickly going to change Griffin joins the group at the inn for the evening meal.
after the group has found out as much as they can about there friend and the talk turn lighter as finds the Monstrologers entreating, What sore of creature are in the jungle around the outpost here ? adding to start the conversation that she is looking to get as much info on the local area that they know and are willing to give out. She will continue the talk about whatever crosses there mind after this point .
When Ragnarok get up to leave Griffin will follow him on his rounds and just talk to the monk with general banter Perseption 18
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 d20+9=29 ; Wednesday November 28th, 2012 9:42:27 PM
Faust finishes getting Raven in shape for him to leave, he asks Toregan to search for someone who could keep an eye on her and possibly do a better work than himself, after all, he has only nominal knowledge in mundane healing, and he is sure that, if left as he bandaged, her arm won't heal properly.
"Ok...she's stable...not well...stable. She got punched really bad...by something really big...not sure if it was a creature...I mean, the bruise's so massive and big that I bet we would be able to see the creature if it was one."
"Still...multiple bruises, her arm is broken pretty bad and...that's about as much as I can tell, I'm afraid that if I poke her any further without she being able to tell me it hurts I'll worsen her situation. I'm digressing, to answer your question: yes, she'll recover...eventually, but no, no idea how long it will take, how many of these it will take -- he says waving one of his extract flasks -- and especially no idea when she'll wake up"
He cleans his hands and rubs his head in frustration, taking a new, somewhat calmer and much more attentive look in case he missed anything at all before continuing, "For now...guess it's better to let her rest...since we might go out to punch dinosaurs, I'll save my healing extracts for the time being...as cruel as it sounds, it'll be just as bad if we need them in the field, we don't need two people like this."
"Anyway, going too far away again, sorry...you never really think that this sort of thing will happen to someone known. As I was saying, I'll save our magic resources for now as it doesn't seem an emergency, and it might be needed elsewhere, but if it's decided that for today we'll stay, I'll come back and make her drink as many healing extracts as possible."
Once someone that can take care of Raven shows up, he rubs his face slowly with his hand and takes a deep breath and says: "Let's go meet the others? Wanna hear the tale of those druids...maybe they know the color of the dragon that landed on her...", he says, ready to leave.
Another Perception to see if Faust can find anything else that might be a lead or of any use regarding Raven's fate now that he'll spend more than a couple of seconds looking for leads (+9): 29 (darkvision), another natural 20...huh.
Druids at the Gates Wednesday November 28th, 2012 11:40:06 PM
Jorhma shakes his head, "There were no others, bodies or survivors. Whatever destroyed the building either took them or ate them. We would have investigated further, but the young girls frail condition dictated our haste in coming here."
The three each take a mug of Ale and have some of the bread and Cheese dropped off at the table by Hope. Haggard has returned to the bar, but has not put Vanguard away.
Jorhma listens and nods to Yngvar polite enough, but again shakes his head, "We have no wish to stay," his eyes glance about and his voice takes on a distasteful tone, "here. Though it seems that you and your company are pleasant enough. Your Mandate on the surface is fair and reasonable and we should find no quarrel with you or those you claim." Solstice seems even more uncomfortable than the others at being within the Inn as she figets in her chair. Keill looks about a bit Nervous and Jorhma ends his conversation with Yngvar quickly. "We should be moving along, you have been gracious master Hefnd. We are pleased it would seem the girl will be well cared for."
Upon Griffin's question to the creatures of the jungle, a slight grin spreads over Solstice's face and Jorhma arches a brow as he answers, "Those of astounding and terrible beauty. Our time, though, has been north of the river and so I cannot say ."
The three prepare to take their leave and Jorhma extends a hand to Yngvar, "We wish you well and that you hold you course"
Patterson, the caretaker of the Church and engineer of the post, takes over for Faust. He sits next to Raven and confirms what Faust has already discovered. "She's in a bad way for certain. You'd think one of them druids could have saved a lot of pain by simply healing the girl. I can help her, just be slower." He opens a Healing kit and starts to work.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14/14/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 12/16 Thursday November 29th, 2012 10:16:00 AM
Yngvar stands and smiles back at Jorhma. Taking his offered hand, "of course, you are welcome at any time, I have heard something of your beliefs. I see that the building is somewhat uncomfortable for you, next time we may dine under the trees?" Still holding Jorhma's hand and smiling, "I am curious why none of you tried any healing yourself, a life is a life, regardless of the origin."
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 18/11/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 31/31 -- Rage 14/14 Thursday November 29th, 2012 1:42:39 PM
Asteron listens intently. Not being a healer, magical or otherwise, and not being a diplomat either, he believes his part of the conversation is over. He had a hunch, acted upon it, and it seemed to have proven correct. But he is now at a loss as to how to continue, with the exception of investigating the spot where the girl was found.
An idea is forming in the back of his thick skull, but he does not want to voice it just yet. It has to do with previous visitors and the wounded girl, though...
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple d20+9=21 ; Thursday November 29th, 2012 1:55:43 PM
Pleased to walk the compound in the company of Griffin, Ragnarök wonders what the next steps will be... he voices his thoughts to the lovely yet dangerous lass accompanying him.
"Perhaps Yngvar will be able to get some peace around this place by talking to 'm... after all they brought Griffin back... do you think they could show us where they found her?! Could be interesting to exactly find out what happened to her... "
once every now and then Raganarök looks at the door to the Inn to see if anyone is coming out or... who knows... seeing someone get thrown out the windows during a brawl...
perception 21
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 Thursday November 29th, 2012 8:11:41 PM
Faust shrugs, still shaken by everything that's happened "Eh, who knows? Maybe the forest is such a harsh mistress that not even its worshipers get a break, so they thought they could need the healing themselves."
"Sounds cruel, but I understand the logic behind it...sometimes the survival of the many mean precise resource management, even if that means individual suffering. Fret not, I just want to make sure we're not leaving the outpost today, then I'll spend all my five extracts to patch her up."
He then gets ready to leave, but before going through the door, he stops and says one last thing: "Take good care...of her."
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Thursday November 29th, 2012 9:43:51 PM
Toregan watches Patterson as he begins to treat Raven, his head hung low. "I could help treat her injuries, but she is in worse shape than Artrius was after the portal incident, and all my knowledge did little to wake him. At the very least she's alive, and her injuries would be consistent with a collapsed building as well, so the druids probably mean us no harm. Please watch her closely Patterson. And thank you once again." Toregan leaves with Faust and talks to him as they walk. "I have decent skill as a tracker. If we go to the waystation I should be able to figure out part of what happened. At the very least it could give us a clue as to what to hunt down."
Druids at the Gates Thursday November 29th, 2012 11:42:16 PM
Yngvar knows something of the reclusive Monstrologers and their comfort or lack thereof around others and what passes for civilization. his offer does seem to help Jorhma, and the sharp wizard gets the feeling that Jorhma may not have always been so removed from civilized life. At teh mention of healing Raven, both Keill and Solstice sharply inhale, kiss both of their own palms and mumble something low and under their breaths. Johrma is more diplomatic to say the least. Though the suggestion sends a shiver through him that Yngvar feels as they are still holding hands a that time. Jorhma ends the hand shake and does answer. "Life is life ad that is why we did not simply leave her when we discovered the truth about her. She has chosen her path and we respect it. We would never, will never, provide her healing from Maab." He finishes with a small smile. "We will return though I think, or rather I will. I am not sure if Solstice or Keill are ready for such an adventure. But now we must go. One last thing. This area or more precisely the area about the river and for a day to the west is claimed by the K'tthhykk. A tribe of kobolds distinguished by coloration of mostly greens with brown snouts and no head cresting, with which we have peaceful contact. If you go to your waystations, you will undouhbtedly encounter them. They are wary, but speak well and do not initiate violence and they should leave you unmolested."
With this last bit the druids leave, none to soon for a nervous Solstice and Kiell
As Torregan and Faust leave Raven and Patterson, he smiles at them and assures them both that Raven is in good hands.
The party is now back at the Inn, Raven is resting and the druids have exited the Post
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14/14/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 12/16 Friday November 30th, 2012 10:45:21 AM
Not to happy at the response, "though I may not agree, I respect your position, again, thank you for your time and assistance."
After seeing the guests on their way Yngvar returns to the inn, I really do need an office, this is just a little informal...
Yngvar winks at Hope and gives her a warm smile, "thank you for the quick refreshments, send the bill to Pen. What did you think of them?" A few minutes of idle chatter with Hope and Yngvar has settled back down at his table.
Setting aside the map of the Outpost, Yngvar rifles through until he finds another map with a somewhat larger scale on it, this one showing the surrounding area. Thinking back on what Jorhma said, Yngvar looks at the area with the way station and K'tthhykk. Once the others have arrived, "looks like we may have a reason to go out for a bit. That way station will need repairing, in addition, I'd like to make contact with the K'tthhykk. Having friendlies around would be very good. We can draw up some plans for a residence hall here and leave it with Pen to see what he can arrange while we are out rebuilding the way station."
Yngvar looks around while taking a drink from his mug, "ideas?"
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 Friday November 30th, 2012 11:38:47 AM
Faust arrives to the Inn with Toregan, his head is low and, without looking up he says "Ok...Raven will...survive. Patterson's taking care of her and I'll go give her some healing extracts once I know the agenda for today."
"Now, where are the...?", as he raises his head and sees that the visitors are nowhere to be found, he pouts and mumbles "Darn, missed them..."
After being filled in with what was going on and filling the others in whatever developments about Raven's condition that they could be oblivious to he adds: "So...we'll be poking the waystation, eh? Sounds good, mr. Dondarin and I had wishes to go there investigate anyway. And since we might try to make new forest pals...we should bring something kobolds might like...though I have absolutely no idea what the something might be..."
"...So...what's with the
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple Friday November 30th, 2012 2:08:36 PM
Once Ragnarök sees the druids leave he walks towards the Inn to say goodbye and thanks for returning Raven. Then he goes into the Inn and finds a place around the table again where the whole group is reassembling. With word from Faust that Raven will survive the Monk is pleased and smiles...
He then listens to what Yngvar talked about with the druids.
"Making contact with this tribe of Kobolds sounds good... repairing the way station does sound like we're spreading our resources too thin. We still haven't fully built this place and this outpost apparently has no appeal and no renown for other travellers. Also I'd like to find out what exactly happened to the outpost and Raven... it feels best to first get on peaceful terms with the K'tthhykk and then find out what it was that crushed Raven and the outpost... once that's done ... and we're still alive... perhaps those Kobolds could maintain the way station for us?!?"
... Ragnarök silences wondering where that stream of words came from... takes a long drink from his mug and then stares at the table...
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 18/11/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 31/31 -- Rage 14/14 Friday November 30th, 2012 2:25:34 PM
Asteron is happy that finally he may see some action outside the walls of the trading outpost. "If I can speak my mind, I also think we should go and check what clues we may find about what happened to your friend. It will definitely be a dangerous undertaking, but if we find any of the K'tthhykk and can establish friendly, or at least neutral, relations with them, it would be a boon to this outpost".
Truth is that Asteron is itching for some action. Even uneventful traveling will do. All he wants at this point is to leave the confines of the outpost for a few days... or weeks...
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Friday November 30th, 2012 10:44:20 PM "I merely wish to find out what happened to the station, not fix it. From what the Monstrologers said it is nearly beyond repair anyways. I should also inform those of you who were not present with us on our trip to the post in the beginning, but we were captured by a tribe of kobolds and were kept alive to be eaten. We were rescued by a kobold with a different scale pattern and we manged to get out with Lake. If the kobold who saved us was with that tribe, I have a debt to them and would very much so like to make contact."
A Closer Look Saturday December 1st, 2012 9:03:40 PM
Hope nods and thanks Yngvar as she clears away the last of the dishes. Haggard returns Vanguard to its place above the bar when the druids exit and then approaches. "I have a question I need to ask and well given recent events it seems wrong to but I have to some I'm just going to come right out and blurt it at you."
Haggard takes a breath and glances at some of the other before leaning into Yngvar closer, "You claiming the rest of them at part of your group right. The other minotaur there without the horns, the girl, the drow and one Nathanial called Crow?" Getting his answer he smiles and thanks Yngvar for officially setting it all straight. Haggard then excuses himself for a little bookkeeping.
The group has the room to themselves save Hope and an old lion by the fire.
The group gets together at the Inn and it is a general consensus to head out to the waystation where Raven was found and see if there are any clues that will shed light on anything. The possibility of contact with local tribe of kobolds not bent on catching and eating what they can, has appeal as well. Now it is a matter of when and if there are any supplies the group wants to take. It is apparent to some that Hope is going out of her way to appear to not be listening, but the girl is given away by an occasional nod of her head or pause in her actions so as to not drown out the groups conversation to her own ears.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple Sunday December 2nd, 2012 3:52:55 AM "If, while we're trying to find out what happened to Raven, encounter this tribe of Kobolds... isn't there anything we can take with us as some sort of tribute? A present? Something to please their tribe elders perhaps? What do Kobolds fancy... besides that I'd say... let's get a good night sleep and get going! The longer we wait, the older the traces will become."
Ragnarök empties his mug and waits for a consensus on the when shall we leave part.
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 Sunday December 2nd, 2012 4:46:37 PM "Eh...not particularly found of kobolds to be honest...too small...and noisy...and scaly. Still, friendly hands are helpful hands; but can't say I ever paid any attention to anything related to kobolds other than 'a kobold stole my purse'.
But if I were to make a wild guess, I'd say food. Food always brings people together, the only thing that is better is revenge, sweet, deserved and bloody revenge, but food is easier. And less complicated."
He gets comfier where he sits, "Anybody happen to know what those small blabber lizzards fancy to chew on? If not, hopefully their taste is similar to ours and we can just make some well seasoned red meat."
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 18/11/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 31/31 -- Rage 14/14 Monday December 3rd, 2012 8:09:48 AM "Do we have access to some shiny baubles they may like?" Asteron interjects, "some shiny but cheap colored stones might help. I would say that some 25-50 baubles worth a gold coin or two should the trick."
The Minotaur is really looking forward to the adventure. There is a glint in his eye, and a spring in his step as he moves that is open for all to see.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple Monday December 3rd, 2012 1:35:20 PM "Though I'd rather not spend too much gold on these Kobolds, Master Asteron, I would not risk trying to bamboozle them with cheap coloured stones... if they are skilled in appraising gems we could end up getting the opposite effect..., Ragnarök replies to his friends.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple Monday December 3rd, 2012 3:31:04 PM
OOC : how comes no one else is participating in the Yultide festival at the Giggling Ghost?!? Get over there friends. It's a fun sidekick to the actual Campaign. Just write up your character to level 5 and get going.
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 d20+9=27 ; Monday December 3rd, 2012 4:18:33 PM
Toregan shrugs as he thinks of things to bring the kobolds. "Food is probably our best bet. Alcohol could also help."
Knowledge Nature (+9): 27 for anything kobolds would accept as offerings
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 18/11/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 31/31 -- Rage 14/14 Monday December 3rd, 2012 4:41:50 PM
OOC: Steven, I wish I had the time... alas, I do not :/
Waystations Monday December 3rd, 2012 8:20:15 PM
A quick discussion and the group settles on food and possibly drink being the two most likely ways to win friends and influence kobolds. No one in the party knows a great deal about kobolds other than the last ones encountered tried to eat them. Meat is likely a good safe choice. It is also agreed to start sooner rather than later and the following morning is a good marker. Asteron dose bring up baubles, perhaps some semi precious stones. Ragnarok is unsure of that particular approach, but the idea and thought are still there
The Trading Post's general Store, run by Lerangris the elf, has salted and smoked meats of pork, beef, chicken and other. She does not lend additional identification to the 'other white meats' She also has semi precious stones, loose and in necklaces and bracelets.
If there is no other business, the group gets one last leisurely day in and at sunrise descends the lift and heads down the short trail head to the river and the nearest waystation. From there it will either be an overland journey along the banks of the river to the next station, or perhaps a raft
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 Monday December 3rd, 2012 11:02:57 PM "Well then, it's settled that we'll part in the morning?"
"If so, you all will have to excuse me as I try to drown our injured friend in healing extracts; unless we're assaulted by tyranosaurs in the night, I think we can manage to get by without any extracts. Anyone who wishes to check on her condition is welcome to follow suit."
As he is about to exit through the door, he stops and adds: "Oh, yeah! Another thing that might pick their interest is alchemical items...you know, 'mundane magic', depending on how divine inclined or technological advanced they are, such a knowledge can prove to be quite a boon to their daily lives and perhaps allow them to overcome some rival tribe or something."
"I won't have the time to craft much, even if I do it as we walk, so if anyone can talk to Pen to get a hold of couple useful items, such as smokesticks, tindertwigs and the such for us to take them. Anyone knows if they see in the dark? Sunrods are always useful for light-dwellers. Either way, Gazzy should be able to provide a 'basic set' or sorts, and other than smokesticks, they shouldn't cost more than a couple golds."
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 Monday December 3rd, 2012 11:04:21 PM OOC: Forgot to add that Faust will spend all of his 5 extracts as Cure Light Wounds on Raven (CL3) before going to bed. Since the actual healing number shouldn't matter much, I'll leave those to be hidden DM rolls if wanted to.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14/14/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 12/16 Tuesday December 4th, 2012 12:30:23 PM "We need to make contact with the kobolds, if for no more reason than to make sure of where they operate and to steer any visitors clear of their territory. In addition, we must get the way station repaired or rebuilt, it's part of the route this outpost will need to be successful."
Yngvar spends the afternoon working on a residential building for the group, if business picks up, the inn will need the rooms for guests. Accepting input from the others, Yngvar proposes a modest structure with a ground floor set of offices, trophy room, kitchen and dining hall, library, and meeting room. Above this he suggests a handful of suites and a wing alongside with a few enlarged suites for the 'taurs. They can look at bringing back some building materials on their return from this patrol.
That afternoon Yngvar makes his own way to collect some general goods, picking up a few pounds of various sundries and several small daggers.
Loading the supplies onto his pack mule along with his own barrel of ale Yngvar finds himself ready to set out on another adventure.
"Pen, see what you can do with the plans I left for the residential building. I think the single building with an enlarged wing will work best. Hopefully we'll be back in a couple of weeks."
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 18/11/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 31/31 -- Rage 14/14 Tuesday December 4th, 2012 2:45:27 PM
Although the others do not believe that small, not so valuable baubles could help, Asteron thinks that females of any species are the same, and if there are any kobold witches, or whatever kobolds call their holy women, a few might be helpful. Even a chieftain, or even a shaman might fancy a pretty colored stone. So, he goes off to see Lerangris, and he buys 2 agates, 3 pieces of blue quartz, 2 polished hematites, and 3 pieces of lustrous malachite. Before placing all of those in his haversack, he dutifully pays 10 platinum pieces to the elf.
With his purchases done and over with, he spends the rest of the day checking arms and armor, making sure he will be ready for whatever lies ahead of them.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple Tuesday December 4th, 2012 4:37:19 PM
Pleased that a consensus is so quickly reached Ragnarök signs of for the day and searches comfort in meditation for the remaining hours. Too seldom has he consulted his inner self...
Ragnarök ponders if perhaps his recent Yuletide present should not appeal to the Kobold leader... (a leather headband bearing a large metallic disc on it with a black-and-white spiral design on it. Anyone wearing this headband can cast Daze once per day at a range of 30 feet (as a third level spellcaster)). Though possibly expensive in case of trouble he'll make the offer...
He spends some time going over the drawings Yngvar has made for their own place and gives an appreciative nod. Nothing fancy yet very comfortable and practical!
That night the Monk goes to bed rather early and rises again before dawn. Checking his gear and having a good breakfast he readies for the next journey. Just tucking some rations in his backpack and then he's ready to go...
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Tuesday December 4th, 2012 7:51:16 PM
Toregan goes to the general store and stocks up on a decent amount of the various salted meats Lerangris has in stock. He also checks in with Bast to see if he can buy some of his ale to sweeten the offering. After his purchases are done, he prepares his gear for the trek ahead of them.
Buying 30gp worth of meats from the general store and a few gallons of ale from Bast.
Waystations Wednesday December 5th, 2012 7:06:05 AM
Faust delivers the healing extracts and Patterson thanks him. He explains that Raven is sleeping, though she is doing much better and even briefly awoke last night. The old halfling expects her recovery to be complete, but right now rest is what she needs.
Yngvar picks up some supplies at the General store, as does Toregan along with a pony keg from Bast's brewery. Asteron also hits Lerangris' shop and picks through her collection of semi precious stones to find a nice set that he likes. Ever the shop keeper, Lerangris offers up that she also has several sets of precious and rare stones, both cut and uncut as well. Faust also investigates picking up some alchemical items. Gazzy still has not opened her store, but she does have a sidewalk sale of sorts and the surface drow is able to find several smokesticks, sunrods, smoke pellets, Alchemical grease, sneezing powder, liquid ice, Thunderstones, Tanglefoot bags, and Tindertwigs
Pen takes the plans from Yngvar, "Certainly, I'll have Patterson look over these, and we will start clearing out a spot. Be careful out there." the gnome shakes Yngvar's hand and then spots Asteron exiting the General Store. "Odd sight that, but maybe that is what the place needs . Well again take out there and we will see you soon."
The group descends the lift and makes the River Waystation before noon. The station is a flat clearing about 50 foot square with several fire rings, posts for torches and hitching animals and a flattened ramp of earth connecting to the river with a dock of sorts. Several large leantos have been built and would be able to shelter about 12 men and 8 animals in all. The party finds several buckets and bins, empty now, as well as a good supply of firewood. Just off to the side of the Station, partially overgrown with weeds and vines appears to be a large raft.
One thing that is out of place is a very large tree, right at the perimeter and overshadowing 4 of the shelters. Every other large tree to at least 100 meters has been cleared.
Bad DM additional edit- Every PC recieves 450xp for the Hunters and Monstrolger role playing
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 18/11/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 31/31 -- Rage 14/14 d20=6 ; d20=19 ; Wednesday December 5th, 2012 10:55:43 AM "First our wooden outer wall is bent with magic. Now, there is a very large tree where there ought to be none. Any ideas?" Asteron has a couple, and both include magic, something he is not that keen on, but he leaves them unvoiced.
He does take a good look around from where he stands, trying to find anything out of place, whether natural or otherwise.
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 d20+9=22 ; d20+10=19 ; d20+11=25 ; d20+10=20 ; Wednesday December 5th, 2012 1:19:57 PM "This thing will try to eat us, won't it?", says Faust, while looking at the tree's base to determine whether it moved or "was dragged" to there, was born there, just magically appeared there, dropped from the sky or something else entirely that he hadn't contemplated yet.
"Ok...this sure doesn't look one bit natural...not sure if it is specifically relevant to what we came here to do, but it sure looks important to pinpoint just how did this tree get here...I mean, sure, quite evident that this was the work of a druid, nature cleric or some other tree loving magic hurling being's doing, but the specific how can give us clues, even if they turn out to be useless I'd like to know if we're up against druids who can fling trees at people."
Perception to investigate the tree and its immediate surroundings, focus on finding out how it got there (+9): 22 (darkvision) Knowledge Nature to determine the tree's type and if there's any mundane explanation for it to be there (such as being the rare fast-growing tree that scares people off), will also think if it matches the jungle biome (+10): 19 Spellcraft to check if the tree is or was under the effect of magic (+11): 25 Knowledge Arcana mostly for the sake of it (+10): 20 Knowledge Arcana
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14/14/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 12/16 d20+9=10 ; d20+10=17 ; Wednesday December 5th, 2012 2:28:10 PM "Strange indeed," Yngvar's eyes glow blue as he activates a cantrip to detect magical effects, followed by a slow walk around camp, checking over everything for any hints of magical auras.
"I've heard that some druids can take on the form of trees, I wonder..."
ooc: perception 10, know:arcana tree shape spell 17
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple d20+8=15 ; d20+8=16 ; d20+8=9 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+9=14 ; d20+9=18 ; d20+9=26 ; d20+9=13 ; Wednesday December 5th, 2012 5:32:49 PM
The odd placed tree does appear to be a concern but it draws away to attention to the possible hazards and walking around the camp-site will blur any traces that remain of what happened here.
"Mind you friends let's also look for odd foot prints, evidence of what went wrong here perhaps... It's been a while since the Monstrologers found Raven but who knows there might be some traces left after all...
Casting a casual eye on the odd placed tree, Raganrök slowly checks out the soil for evidence... traces... tracks... footprints of other than humans perhaps... evidence of something or someone being dragged away from this site. Anything!
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 d20+7=22 ; d20+7=14 ; Wednesday December 5th, 2012 11:55:23 PM
As toregan walks with the rest of the group, he keeps a watchful eye on the jungle around them. When they reach the Waystation, he looks at the tree curiously. "They could have left the tree up to provide some shade and cover from the rain. It does seem odd that they would clear out all the trees but this one." Toregan canvases the area for any tracks or other things that are out of place.
Survival (+7): 22 Perception (+7): 14
Griffin AC 18 CMD 17 Thursday December 6th, 2012 6:59:38 AM
OOC Sorry guys for the not posting I have been swamped with work and kids and the wold skipped my mind until today
I will post later on tonight
Cheers all Griffin aka Jon E
Waystations Thursday December 6th, 2012 8:07:28 AM
The lone tree attracts the attention of the heroes immediately and all come the the thought of druidic or nature magic quickly. Investigations come to the following conclusions; It is a Monkeypod tree, common for the jungles of Cthonia as is its size. There is no evidence suggesting the tree did anything but grow at this location Yngvar and Faust agree that it is not a Tree Shape spell. There are some strange deep violet mushrooms growing in 8 vertical rows spaced about the trunk of the tree. They are no bigger than a halflings little finger and run up the trunk and into the branches. None of the heroes can classify the fungus.
Asteron notes the bark covering the higher branches appears damaged. Branches that are nearly 20' above his own head
Torregan finds divets in a scattered area but certainly a pattern that suggests a trail leading from the big tree to the jungle line about 100 meters away
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 25/25 - AC19 / 20 evil / 23 AoO / 24 AoO Evil - CMD 22 / 24 vs Grapple d20+8=21 ; d20+8=24 ; d20+8=24 ; d20+8=9 ; Thursday December 6th, 2012 6:25:41 PM "Hahaha... looks like we're all a bit skittish about this whole situation friends." Ragnarök says laughing to his friends, "yet these fungi are odd... and where would those tracks Torregan found lead too... "
Knowing he's not any good in examining these odd coloured fungi - after all with a deep violet colour, growing in nicely spaces rows they just scream don't touch!! - Ragnarök turns to the tracks Torregan spotted.
With no sign of life these tracks possibly are their only clue at the moment...
Survival: 21, 24, 24, 9 (nat 1)
As Torregan pointed out the trakcs Rag can now easily spot and follow them... till he trips over his belt that was coming loose...
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 16/16/10 -- CMD 18 -- HP 18/18 -- Bombs 9/9 d20+5=18 ; d20+9=16 ; Thursday December 6th, 2012 8:05:16 PM "Ok...I still think this tree was affected by some unnatural accelerated growth of some sort...I can't imagine this thing naturally growing here over years and years. Surely by now someone would've cleared it as they did with the others."
"But cute mushrooms, these. And by cute I mean interesting...and dangerous...and quite possibly poisonous...I wish to retrieve couple of them for analysis, but I'll save this until we're done, don't want to risk releasing a poisonous smoke when we barely arrived to the scene.", he says this all with his 'dangerously curious' grin.
He thinks for some time and gazes over the fungi, but once Toregan mentions the tracks he shifts his attention, "Hmmm...shall we go take a look? Hopefully it'll explain the damaged bark Worldtraveller pointed out..."
"...no...no, no, no, I take it back, I hope it doesn't explain the bark, whatever it was was bigger than our bipedal bovine companions, I hope to find out what did that, but I sure would like to do so without actually meeting the creature.", he says taking a look at the tracks trying to truly see the tracks and make some sense out of them.
He looks over to the forest and focus on his ears, hopeful to hear anything other than normal jungle sounds.
Survival to make any further sense out of the tracks (+5): 18 Perception to notice anything, especially sounds coming from the end of the tracks at the jungle (+9): 16
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Thursday December 6th, 2012 8:41:33 PM
Toregan is sure to inspect the area throughly, as to not miss any details. "I've picked up a trail. Seems something was here but I can't quite tell what. Its definitely moving away from this tree and to the jungle there." Toregan also harvests some of the mushrooms and places them his pouch. "I'm not sure what these are, but Gazzy might be able to make use of them. Or you Faust." clasping his pouch, he tuns to look at the jungle. "Looks like the tracks are our only lead. Lets move on."
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Thursday December 6th, 2012 8:42:26 PM OOC: Forgot to specify, but he harvests them with his knife, avoiding touching them if at all possible.
Griffin AC 18 CMD 17 d20+11=15 ; d20+8=26 ; d20=3 ; Thursday December 6th, 2012 9:46:53 PM
Griffin seams to come out of her daze as for the last little while she has been on auto piliot, Why don't I take a quick look up this tail and I will be back
Griffin will follow the trail for a while to see where it leads and report back to the group
LOG ON