DM Kathy Monday April 15th, 2013 11:47:40 PM
Although your morning has been eventful, you haven't taken all that much time. It isn't yet noon when you return to the kobold village. Zyk is handed over to the kobolds, along with a letter explaining the circumstances. Zyk looks sullen, but resigned to his fate.
Although some would have released Teril into the wild, Yngvar is more than willing to give him the sentence he has earned.
[Everybody take 1250 XP for the last encounter.]
The riddle of the destroyed waystations has been solved, but there are still more waystations to be checked.
In fact, there are 10 waystations between the Floating City and the Trading Post. They are numbered, starting from the Float and working outward. The waystation closest to the Trading Post is #10. You, therefore, have checked stations 10, 9, and 8. Stations 10 and 9 are going to need a little work if they are to be fully restored. Station 8 is fine, and is the closest one to Auntie's village.
Now, you head downriver to station #7. What with one thing and another, it is past noon when you leave station #8, so it is dusk as you approach station #7.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 19/11/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 39/43 -- Rage 13/17 Tuesday April 16th, 2013 1:13:49 PM
Asteron is glad that he has time to collect his thoughts. On the one hand, he believes that combat should be honorable, preferably with equally-matched opponents, and may the most honorable one win. On the other, these druids, or whatever they are, are not playing by the rules. So, should he keep up to his people's code, or should he feel free of some of its constraints, since his current enemy was not playing fair?
Those were his thoughts as they approached waystation number 7. "So... who shall walk point for this? I'd volunteer, but I am not very good at it. I will follow closely, though, to bash whatever is needed to be bashed."
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 33/34 - AC22/21/15 / 26 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple d20+10=17 ; d20+12=25 ; d20+10=17 ; Tuesday April 16th, 2013 3:47:22 PM "I'd be happy to take point once again friend Asteron. Untill we find our way to the Catacombs I will use this Necklace of Natural Armor so that should keep me at least a little safer. We did live through those earlier traps so with a little luck... Who knows..."
And so once again Ragnarok takes point some 30ft ahead of the group... Observing the surroundings, the trail, possible tripwires... At least now he has seen a few of those druidic traps... He also checks for tracks...
Perception: 17 Stealth: 25 Survival: 17
Though he might not succeed in finding much... It's very likely possible ambushers will only hear the main group and not the wannabee scout...
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Tuesday April 16th, 2013 6:08:06 PM If the way stations are along the river, we shouldn't have far to go...
Half my spells have been expended, lets hope we can get a nights rest here. Yngvar stands ready, loaded crossbow held in his hands.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Tuesday April 16th, 2013 6:08:06 PM If the way stations are along the river, we shouldn't have far to go...
Half my spells have been expended, lets hope we can get a nights rest here. Yngvar stands ready, loaded crossbow held in his hands.
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 29/29 d20+8=23 ; d20+11=31 ; Tuesday April 16th, 2013 8:31:27 PM
Toregan keeps his bow in his hands during the ride, watching the river's shores for food plants, prey animals, and any predators. When they begin to approach the waystation, he takes a arrow out of his quiver and nocks, preparing for a fight. "Be wary. We're losing light quickly and this is the time the night predators begin to wake. I'll take point with you." Unless Rag is insistent on being alone, Toregan will accompany him on point.
Perception (+8): 23 Stealth (+11): 31
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 d20+7=19 ; Tuesday April 16th, 2013 10:04:36 PM
Faust stands near Yngvar, much like the other wizard with crossbow in hand. "Indeed, a good night's rest is in order for me to catch my breath and not lose my main usefulness. Mr. Scarecrow and Dondarin, do keep a watchful eye open for weird movements of the trees, now that we know the ents are with them."
Perception for good measure (+7): 19 (darkvision), if it's already a low-light situation, add another +3 to the result
DM Kathy Wednesday April 17th, 2013 1:03:56 AM
You are extra-cautious as you approach the waystation. You talk about who will take point.
Except your DM was under the impression that you were in a boat. Yes? So, you're all together.
Station #7 is built on a rocky island in the middle of the river. This station is inconvenient in a number of ways. It is quite small. There is little vegetation, and no trees at all, so the camp is completely exposed to the elements. Firewood must be obtained from snags or driftwood in the river. And there's no really good place for a latrine. To most travelers, though, all those disadvantages are outweighed by the advantage of having a good chunk of flowing water between them and the hungry predators on shore.
There is still enough light to see, as you approach, that the waystation is unoccupied, and everything is as it should be. There is a fire ring, and a slightly flattened area for camping.
You do have enough light, barely, to set up your camp--especially since you are not under the trees and some of your companions have low-light visions.
The night passes uneventfully, with the sound of the flowing river either soothing you to sleep or keeping you awake, depending on your inclinations. The morning is cool and misty.
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday April 17th, 2013 3:22:12 PM "Glad to have an uneventful night."
"Guess I'll leave my spell list unchanged, we might find more of those druids...but hopefully we won't and will be able to check the remaining waystations on this very day.", says Faust, grabbing some very bland but nutritious enough trail rations, casting some prestidigitation to make the taste a bit better.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 33/34 - AC22/21/15 / 26 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Wednesday April 17th, 2013 4:06:21 PM
Fully refreshed the Monk wakes up the next morning. The cool air feels comforting on his bare torso. The scent of nature's awakening works intoxicating.
"Being able to inspect all remaining waystations without any trouble does sound quite good though I don't share that same optimism... Let's prove me wrong..."
A quick bite from some shewy rations and Rag's ready and eager to go.
When affloat it doesn't matter where Rag stands... When on land for now it seems best option for the Monk to take point. All the help he gets is most welcome!
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Wednesday April 17th, 2013 4:43:04 PM I expect that each way station is about a day from the last one.
Yngvar reviews and selects his spells for the day, and after enjoying his own breakfast, packs up. We need to note that this station needs more firewood delivered, we should see to that on the way back.
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 29/29 Wednesday April 17th, 2013 11:09:33 PM "That's a good idea. At the very least, people should come here and stockpile wood from the surrounding area." Toregan enjoys what he can from his rations before helping pack up camp and continue their inspection.
DM Kathy Thursday April 18th, 2013 12:51:37 AM
You appreciate the uneventful night, if for no other reason than the sheer novelty of it. In the morning, you discuss plans. Perhaps somebody should bring some firewood to this waystation, since it's a little hard to come by on site. In fact, now that the waystations are to be the primary means of travel, there really ought to be some way of making sure each station has what it needs. Something to think about, perhaps.
For now, though, you load up your boat and set off through the mist.
The waystations are, indeed, about a day apart, or perhaps a little less. You are going downstream at this point, so you're traveling more quickly than people coming from the Float. After you pass the confluence, you'll be going upstream, and presumably it will be a little more challenging to reach the waystations by the end of the day. (Here is the Cthonia map so you can see what I'm talking about.)
Since you are heading downstream, you reach waystation #6 about mid-afternoon. The morning mist has burned off, although the day is still a bit chillier than you're accustomed to.
Again, you find everything is as it should be. Station #6, in contrast with the one you last visited, is quite large. There is a fire ring, and a large area for camping. There is even a pen for animals in one corner--now vacant, of course, since there is nobody camping here. A latched wooden box near the fire ring holds kindling and a couple of shovels.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Thursday April 18th, 2013 1:15:48 PM Are there way stations going the other way to the coast? Looks like we're closer to Plateau City than Float City.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 33/34 - AC22/21/15 / 26 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Thursday April 18th, 2013 4:01:14 PM "Another cosy place where those crazy druids didn't come yet. Do you think they were following the same route as we're doing now and that maybe we caught up on them before they could walk the trail entirely??
Given the hour of day I guess we should call it a day? Get up early so make sure we get to the following before dusk?"
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 29/29 d20+8=25 ; d20+8=19 ; Thursday April 18th, 2013 8:27:43 PM From my knowledge, a land route from the TCP to Plateau City would require a trail through the Scab. The Scab is even less developed that Cthonia I believe, and the mountains there would make a land route take longer that the map would indicate. Also, I think that the Post was moved from its location on the post to one of the trio of plateaus on the north side of the river, which would make a sea route more dangerous, but still viable.
Toregan does a quick checkup of the waystation, looking for any odd prints or signs of anything other than the occasional animal or traveler. "It's a possibility. They might have considered that the Post would send someone to check on the stations and started closest to the post to slow us down." Toregan takes out his bow and starts to head off to the wilderness around the camp. "I'll try to find some food for us. I'm getting tired of trail rations." He'll gladly accept any company in his hunt.
Perception (+8): 25 Survival for food (+8): 19
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Thursday April 18th, 2013 11:39:01 PM "It's possible, so by such logic we can expect the ones closer to the float to be the ones under attack or destroyed. Regardless, we might want to start a project to make checking the waystations an easier task..."
"Well, not checking exactly, other than high scry magic, can't think of any other way to see the stations without going to them, but we might want to start a small project so travelers that see anything unusual could share their info with anyone who has not seen it."
"Even a simple semi-hidden public journal could go far in sharing information. Anyway, let's be on the ready for battle at any time, if we're dealing with ents, it's actually a possibility that we've outrun them; they're not exactly nimb on their...roots...", says Faust, sharing his thoughts.
DM Kathy Friday April 19th, 2013 1:31:50 AM
You decide to camp here for the night, rather than trying to make the next waystation. You speculate about what other kinds of resistance you might face. Why did the druids pick those particular waystations? Did they have a special interest in starting near the Trading Post? Are there, perhaps, other groups sabotaging the waystations closer to the Float?
You don't know the answers, although you are beginning to realize that you need some way of sharing information about the waystations. Something to ponder.
You tie up your boat, pitch your tents, light your fire, and sit down to relax for a bit.
After about an hour, you see a group of boats approaching the waystation. They are coming from the opposite direction from the way you are headed; they are coming from the direction of the Floating City, working hard to get their boats upstream.
You are wary, of course, but as they approach you see that they must be merchants. Each boat is well-loaded with boxes and bundles, carefully covered against stray splashes from the river. The men in the boats are dressed as traders, not adventurers. And not, thankfully, as druids.
They see you, and react with wary caution of their own. A half-elf man in the lead boat raises a hand and hails you. "Well, met travelers!" he calls. "Where are you bound?"
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 19/11/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 39/43 -- Rage 13/17 Friday April 19th, 2013 1:24:27 PM
Asteron is worried for a moment, but then he realizes that the merchants do not pose a threat... at least not openly. "Well met!", he says before his companions have time to reply, "we are patrolling the waystations on behalf of the trading post. And you?"
Asteron tells the truth, but not the whole truth... just in case.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 19/11/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 39/43 -- Rage 13/17 Friday April 19th, 2013 1:24:57 PM
OOC: Please forgive my lack of posting... it was an unusual week to say the least :/
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Friday April 19th, 2013 3:40:48 PM
Yngvar smiles warmly, Hail, and well met!
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 33/34 - AC22/21/15 / 26 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Saturday April 20th, 2013 3:10:48 AM
Not being the most talkative or diplomatic of the group Ragnarök simply nods to the new travellers. Perhaps they bring news of the outposts up ahead...
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 d20-1=9 ; Sunday April 21st, 2013 11:20:16 AM
Faust's first instinct is to conceal his appearance, however as he thinks about the situation, he comes to the conclusion that a mysterious man who does not show himself would be diplomatically worse than a drow who dares to show himself, especially if the travelers do indeed come from the float.
He then, smiles and waves at the travelers, "Hail! May we inquire if there was any trouble in the waystations you passed by so far?", he asks.
Sense Motive for the heck of it (-1): 9
DM Kathy Sunday April 21st, 2013 10:04:21 PM Asteron replies that the group of you are from the Trading Post. The half-elf man looks a little surprised. "Well! I'm sure there's a tale to be had there," he says. "I trust you don't mind if we tie up and join you?"
Assuming none of you object, the group quickly tie their boats to the quay and disembark.
"I'm Kelan Howre," the half-elf says, shaking hands with whichever of you seem to want to. "We're a group of merchants from the Floating City, hoping to establish trading relationships with the Town in Cthonia. By the way, do you know whether it has a name?"
Yngvar offers greetings, and Faust asks whether there was trouble at any of the other waystations.
"We put in at Stations 1, 3, and 4," Howre replies. "And this one, of course, Station 6. We saw no trouble at the stations we used."
As Howre is speaking, the rest of the group is offloading and setting up camp. They have a few goats, which go in the pen. They set up tents, and a cooking area near the fire. Most of their trade goods remain in the boats, tied securely to the quay.
"But I was surprised to hear you'd been sent by the Trading Post," Howre continues. "I'd have thought they had enough trouble to keep you occupied there, rather than gallivanting off down the river."
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 19/11/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 39/43 -- Rage 13/17 Monday April 22nd, 2013 2:12:29 PM
Asteron decides to play dumb. He can say that he's new and does not know much, in any case. "And why would that be, master Howre?" Asteron waited intently for a reply...
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 33/34 - AC22/21/15 / 26 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Monday April 22nd, 2013 5:03:32 PM
"So they skipped 2 and 5... Perhaps that's where trouble's'brewing?" Rag thinks to himself.
Not sure what to think of these travellers but who knows they just might have something better to eat rather than those dry rations...
DM Kathy Monday April 22nd, 2013 10:28:05 PM Ragnarök wonders, but does not ask, whether the group skipped stations 2 and 5 for any particular reason.
Asteron is curious about why Howre had said what he did.
"Well, everybody knows the Trading Post has had all kinds of trouble," Howre replies. "I mean, the Gate being destroyed, and kobolds attacking and burning the place, and all the dinosaur attacks, and the plague..."
You haven't been gone from the Trading Post for very long. And yes, okay, the Gate was destroyed, and you did have some trouble with kobolds. But burning the place? Dinosaur attacks? Plague? None of that stuff happened--at least, not while you were there. And again, you haven't been gone that long.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Tuesday April 23rd, 2013 1:51:48 AM Interesting stories someone has been spreading. Makes you wonder why they would go to such lengths. But why did you not use each way station? They are placed about a day's journey from each other.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 19/11/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 39/43 -- Rage 13/17 Tuesday April 23rd, 2013 9:00:11 AM
For some odd reason, Asteron does not trust this... Howre. Yet, he makes it a point it does not show on his bovine face. "And when did all this supposedly happen?" The taur is curious, as there are magical means of instant communication, so there is a slight chance for it to be true. Not likely, but possible. Then, he gets up and says: "I will take third watch, if anyone cares to join me." With that, he goes on to catch some sleep... if he can.
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Tuesday April 23rd, 2013 5:15:01 PM
Faust, much like the rest, finds the half's words rather odd, however, they're certainly not dressed like druids nor appear to be 'not doing damage to nature', meaning they're most probably not aligned to these travelers.
He decides to keep his mouth shut however, and wait for the answers in order to not press the travelers too much in case they're innocent.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 33/34 - AC22/21/15 / 26 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Tuesday April 23rd, 2013 5:45:48 PM
Ragnarok is happy someone else has words to voice the thoughts he himself was pondering about also. There IS something fishy about these guys... Either they have been hearing stories that they tend to believe or... Never the less the Monk won't sleep easily.
Smiling at the fact that Asteron always seems to prefer third watch, Rag volounteers for 2nd...
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 29/29 Tuesday April 23rd, 2013 8:31:33 PM
Toregan keeps relaxes his guard as the newcomers seem to be ordinary traders instead of the fanatical druids they last encountered. Their stories about the post worry him a little. "While some of the kobolds around here are bad, we're on good terms with one tribe that's about two days from here." Toregan pauses as he thinks for a little. "Only thing that might've been true is the plague, but it was just contamination of the well, and we cleared that up as soon as we got there. No one even died from it." Toregan appears to be talking to himself at this point, but loud enough for any who were listening to hear clearly.
DM Kathy Tuesday April 23rd, 2013 11:41:05 PM Yngvar notes that the waystations are about a day's travel apart, and asked why the group didn't stop at all of them. "Well, that's the thing," Howre replies. "They're about a day apart heading upstream. But the first few stations are downstream from the Float. We stayed the first night at station 1, then got to 2 just past noon. We decided to try to make for 3, rather than stop. If I had it to do again...well, I'd probably stop. We ended up making camp in the dusk, which wasn't much fun."
"And station 5 didn't have room for the animals," he continues. "I understand 7 is much the same way; is that right?" [Note: Station 7 is the one in the middle of the river. It is pretty small.]
Asteron asks about when the troubles at the Trading Post were supposed to have happened. "Well...well, recently, I suppose," says Howre. "I mean, everybody is talking about it. The Trading Post is no place to trade; better to try your luck in the town. That's what everybody is saying."
The other merchants can confirm that this is indeed what "everybody" is saying.
You try to set the record straight, and the merchants look a little uneasy. None of them, however, seem to have changed their minds about going to town instead of the Trading Post.
You post watches, and the night is largely uneventful. A couple of times, something comes thrashing through the bushes nearby, but you build up the fire, and whatever it is goes away. In the morning, you, the merchants, and the goats are all safe and sound.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 33/34 - AC22/21/15 / 26 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Wednesday April 24th, 2013 1:06:04 PM "So where do we go next? Is there any point to inspecting the waystations these merchants have passed by just earlier? " Rag asks the next morning him being not to eager to work their way upriver...
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Wednesday April 24th, 2013 4:29:03 PM I'm thinking we head back to the outpost and check in there. Pen needs to know about the druids and these rumors. Yngvar is leary of saying too much in front of the traders. Provided none of them are in hearing range he'd continue I'd guess a trip to this 'Town' would be next.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 19/11/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 39/43 -- Rage 13/17 Wednesday April 24th, 2013 7:15:04 PM
Asteron is surprised when a town is mentioned, but tries not to show it. "That town you mention, where is it? I am new in the region and have not visited it yet". Too true... he hadn't even heard about its existence. "But my visit will have to wait, I guess. If you come from the Float, I guess there is no sense in us checking those waystations, so I guess we will head back to the Outpost. So if any of you merchants would like to continue with a free armed escort, you are most welcome to journey with us." Asteron hopes that others will join in and convince the merchants to go with them. "These are dangerous parts, and there is strength in numbers. Also..." Asteron knows a little about traders, "... there is much profit to be made at the Outpost, since not many traders go there. Except the pair that we met there a few days ago, of course... maybe they spread the rumors to keep the profits for themselves?"
Asteron hopes that greed will do its part... he has definitely tried to do his.
DM Kathy Wednesday April 24th, 2013 11:38:09 PM
The rumors have made you uneasy. You talk about returning to the Trading Post now, since the traders all report the waystations clear. True, they haven't stopped in all the waystations, but they're mostly clear. Perhaps that's good enough.
And in the meantime, it seems somebody is trying to divert trade from the Trading Post to the town.
"Well, if you're headed that way, we'd be glad of an escort," Howre says.
[OOC about the town: it has been mentioned before. The mention I found was from the DM post on November 17. This is the relevant part:
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...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." ]
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 19/11/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 39/43 -- Rage 13/17 Thursday April 25th, 2013 4:02:25 PM
Asteron gets up, eats a light breakfast, packs his stuff, arms himself, and is ready to continue their travels, this time back to the Outpost. "Very well, I am ready. How about the rest of you?"
He does keep an eye on the merchants, just in case.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 33/34 - AC22/21/15 / 26 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Thursday April 25th, 2013 6:02:26 PM "Even though we won't have finished out assignement completely it does sound useless to travel to all waystations now... I ok to travel back with these merchants if that's the group's consensus."
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 29/29 Thursday April 25th, 2013 6:20:29 PM "Back to the outpost sounds good. Maybe Pen can send a message to the Float and set some things straight. Might be a good idea to visit Town now too." Looking at the merchants Toregan continues, "Though I am glad to see that word of the Post is getting around. The last group of traders to go to the Post only went there by chance, and they said that the prices at the Post were better than at Town. Something to keep in mind perhaps."
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 19/11/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 39/43 -- Rage 13/17 Thursday April 25th, 2013 6:26:37 PM "And they also mentioned quality and friendliness, too, if I remember correctly" Asteron adds to what Toregan states. And yes, although I won't voice it, I agree that a visit to Town is in order. But that might need more equipment. A whole town is not the same as two druids
His bovine face turns into a smile... which only those who know him well would interpret correctly: the anticipation and relish of future combat.
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Thursday April 25th, 2013 11:18:15 PM "Yes, let's go. And don't worry my friends from the float, tales that the outpost is always under attack are really exagerated. Sure, it's not without its dangers, but frankly, any travel's like that, even staying at the float has its good share of dangers if you make the wrong turn."
DM Kathy Thursday April 25th, 2013 11:45:56 PM
After talking it over, you decide that returning to the Trading Post is more important than checking the remaining waystations yourselves. Kelan Howre is glad to hear it; he and the rest of the merchants look forward to having you to accompany them.
So, in the morning, you all load up your boats and begin heading upriver. This is a new experience for your group; until now you've been moving downstream, where your main concern was steering and avoiding snags. Now, you are pushing your raft upstream, which takes a little more work (and concentration!).
The merchants stay close by, and you are able to talk with them (a little) by calling across from boat to boat. Their main concern is the next waystation, station 7. That's the one that's in the middle of the river, on an island. It's pretty small, and Howre and his group are concerned that there won't be enough room for them and their animals. But they also wonder whether they can make it all the way to station 8 before dark.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Friday April 26th, 2013 12:07:04 PM
Yngvar helps as he can, mostly by staying out of the way and wishing his friend Meranus handn't wandered off.
Just tie and anchor the craft to the lee side of the island, they will be stable and anything floating down river won't run into them.
Yngvar makes a note for himself, Waystation 7 needs a pier or pilings. Stone or wood on the lee side will suffice.
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 29/29 Sunday April 28th, 2013 12:37:03 PM
Toregan helps in securing the rafts to the island, and helps set up camp."Some of could stay on the rafts. So long as they're anchored well, it should be fine."
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 33/34 - AC22/21/15 / 26 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Sunday April 28th, 2013 2:32:45 PM
Happy with Yngvar's plan to tie up the rafts rather than aiming for the next waystation Ragnarök does his best to help wherever he can. He still has some rope left - reminder to purchase a new rope after cutting it up to tie up the freak druids before.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 19/11/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 39/43 -- Rage 13/17 Sunday April 28th, 2013 4:31:29 PM
Asteron also agrees with the plan. He has, however, some observations. "We must guard the rafts carefully though. Not only are they more vulnerable, but also they contain the livelihood of the merchants." He does not voice, although he is sure his companions have thought about it too, that they also contain one of the few glimmers of hope for the Trading Post. It would not do to loose their content.
"As usual, I volunteer for the third watch. It tens to be the most difficult one to keep alert in, and the one in which I have seen most attacks on. Hopefully there will be no need to be on the alert, but I will do my best to keep people and valuables safe."
DM Kathy Sunday April 28th, 2013 9:59:30 PM
You decide to stop at Station 7, and expand the available space by using the rafts. The results aren't ideal, but it is nice to know that there's half a river between you and any land-based predators. The goats aren't happy, but the merchants seem appreciative.
"Pilings to extend the space would be good," Howre agrees.
The night is uneventful, except it does start to rain about an hour before dawn. Breakfast is a cold, cramped affair, and then you are back on the river.
You continue upstream through the rain. It eventually stops, but the day remains overcast. It is difficult to tell what time it is when you arrive at Station 8. This, of course, is the station closest to Auntie's village. The warning sign has been removed, and there are no signs of kobolds (or river gods!) anywhere near the campsite.
The goats seem happy to be ashore, although there is no pen here for them.
You build a fire, and begin the business of drying out everything that got wet in the rain.
This night, too, is largely uneventful. You are able to discourage anything you hear prowling about by building up the fire.
The skies are still overcast in the morning, and a light mist hints that the rain is not entirely gone.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 19/11/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 39/43 -- Rage 13/17 d20=18 ; Sunday April 28th, 2013 10:24:13 PM
Asteron looks at the sky, and sniffs the air. "I wonder if this rain is natural or otherwise." He tells the group of adventurers when not within earshot of the merchants. "Not that I would know, sadly, but it would be interesting to have a hint. I strongly suggest we do not let our guard down, now that we are getting closer to the Outpost. What say you?" Asteron looks at his companions inquisitively. - - - - - Perception [d20+6]: 24
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Monday April 29th, 2013 11:39:37 AM Diligent watches are the first and easiest option. The sooner we return, the sooner we will be able to start sorting these rumors.
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 d20+7=16 ; Monday April 29th, 2013 1:31:53 PM "I doubt it's unnatural. Climate here greatly facilitates rains and unless the lightnings start to seek us out, there's no reason to think of it as anything else but a random nuisance."
"But indeed, everyone pays extra attention, if the rain's heavy, we might find fleeting animals.", Faust points out.
Perception (+7): 16 (darkvision), +3 if the situation counts as low-light
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 33/34 - AC22/21/15 / 26 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Monday April 29th, 2013 3:38:09 PM
Despite the despressing rain Ragnarök doesn't loose his spirit. There's not much to do with no fearful predators near but somehow being back where the River God popped up makes the little hairs on the Monk's forearms to stand...
"If it wasn't for our friends to be closeby I wouldn't rest here...
Rag also wonder how the merchants will reat knowing the group has befriended a tribe of Kobolds...
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 19/11/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 39/43 -- Rage 13/17 d20=16 ; Monday April 29th, 2013 6:15:14 PM "If this is the usual weather, I'll have to get used to it, then," Asteron says shaking the drizzle from his bovine ears. "Thank you, master Faust, for clearing that up."
Asteron still takes a good look around, trying to find if anything is amiss. - - - - - Knowledge(nature) [d20+7]: 23
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 29/29 d20+8=11 ; Monday April 29th, 2013 8:24:42 PM
Toregan helps pack up the camp, and "These rainstorms can last for a few days, so I doubt its persistence is a sign of anything malevolent. Faust has got it right though, the rain makes it easier for predators to hide, and even in the river there are creatures to be reckoned with." Turning to look at the merchants, Toregan continues talking. "Just so you know, there is a kobold tribe in this area that has agreed to trade with the Post. They are the....K'tthhykk tribe," He pauses and takes care to properly pronounce the tibe name. "So if you see any kobolds from this point on, they are most likely of that tribe."
As they continues along the river, Toregan watches the water and shores for anything odd.
Perception (+8): 11
DM Kathy Monday April 29th, 2013 10:35:41 PM
At first, Asteron is inclined to suspect the weather as something unnatural. Faust and Toregan reassure him, however. You are in a rain forest and that means rain.
It doesn't seem likely to cause flooding or anything worse than wet clothes and a smoky fire, so you put up with it as best you can.
Howre is interested to learn of the kobold village nearby. "Trade with kobolds," he says musingly. "Do you know what kinds of things they might want? Or what they might offer in return?"
Looking around at the darkening campsite and his dripping colleagues, he adds, "Well. Perhaps on the way back, then."
In the morning, you pack up and head for the boats, some of you perhaps a little slow and sleepy from the cold night. Poling your raft upstream helps wake you up, though, and you make decent time to station 9.
This is one of the stations that was wrecked by D.A.R.E., although you did set it to rights as best you could. The merchants are interested to learn what happened, though they generally take it as proof that "everyone" was right about the trading post. "Nothing but trouble there," one of them says.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Tuesday April 30th, 2013 11:19:02 AM
Having settled after dinner, Yngvar considers the merchants, this trouble would depend on the type of merchant you are. I am sure you understand that competition is healthy. Are you the type of merchant to ensure that you have quality goods and a long view to expanding trade? Or are you the type that is narrow minded, and considers only today's profit at the expense of others that might have been future customers? Sweeping his mug around to indicate the rain forest he continues Cthonia is a big place. There is much opportunity here. This town is not close enough to be in direct competition with us, but it is close enough that traders like yourselves have a choice on where you do business. You have the option of taking sides and only having one market. Or you could consider that both the 'Post and town as markets. One trip into the wilds, two sources of trade.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 19/11/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 39/43 -- Rage 13/17 Tuesday April 30th, 2013 2:32:15 PM
Asteron backs Yngvar's words. "Master Yngvar is correct. Besides, you mentioned what the kobolds trade for. The Outpost is the place to find out. Besides..." and here he appeals to the merchants' sense of lowered risk, "have you heard of Town escorting merchants or making sure the routes are open?"
That is one question that Asteron is keen of hearing the answer to.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 33/34 - AC22/21/15 / 26 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Tuesday April 30th, 2013 3:55:08 PM
Not being accustomed to the finer aspects of diplomacy Ragnarok turns to checking up this waystation since they last visited. If Rag remembers correctly this is the place they got ambushed by 3 lizard type creatures... The ones Rag mistakingly considered friendly.
He walks a small perimiter around the camp (not leaving eyesight away though) just to get his feet into the damp forest soil rather than the dreadful raft... Luckily they are almost back where they started. A few more days of this water and he would probably have grown finns...
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Tuesday April 30th, 2013 10:40:20 PM "Indeed. This here? It happens."
"All the time, every where. It is not something exclusive to the Cthonian jungles, seen it happen in the Float, heard stories of it happening left and right all over the Wold, for the most varied reasons."
"As I believe to have mentioned before, yes, there is trouble and danger here, but so far, not much more than elsewhere, lest you actively look for it."
He takes a sip from his mug and puts his cocky smile on, "The good part though?"
"Here you have people who care for the place and want everything made right, so even if troubles arise, we are quick on our feet to solve it."
His smile vanishes as he turns to his pessimistic tendencies before adding: "One last thing, regardless of economic reasons, it's a great idea to trade with the outpost simply because we need the supplies. And if we don't get the supplies, who knows, one day we might just pack up and leave due to necessity or worse and, may the gods forbid such day from coming, if it ever does come, who will maintain and keep peace on the trading route? So far this town doesn't seem quite as pro-active as us, ergo..."
"Not a threat by any means, just something to keep in mind."
DM Kathy Tuesday April 30th, 2013 10:48:38 PM Yngvar asks some pointed questions of the merchants. "Well. That was blunt," Howre replies.
One of the other merchants speaks up. "Kelan Howre is a respected merchant back in the Floating City because he does take things slowly, with an eye for the long term. Most of us who joined him on this trip did so because of his reputation as a serious, level-headed businessman."
Both Yngvar and Asteron play up the advantages the Trading Post could offer, and Howre looks thoughtful. All he'll commit to, however, is a somber "we'll see."
Ragnarök walks a perimeter, and looks forward to not being on the river anymore. The life aquatic is not for him. On his patrol, he hears the normal noises of the jungle, but nothing to cause alarm.
It rains off and on throuthout the night, but in the morning there's some sunlight struggling to get through the mist. You make your preparations and depart.
You spend an uneventful, if somewhat boring, day on the river, and finally pull into station 10 in the late afternoon. This is the last station, the one closest to the Trading Post, and to Town.
It was also trashed by D.A.R.E., and, among other things, still has an enormous tree growing right in the center of it. You are able to set up camp, however, and spend what is hopefully your last night on the river.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 33/34 - AC22/21/15 / 26 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Wednesday May 1st, 2013 5:52:16 AM
Despite the trip having been fairly uneventful after leaving the Kobolds Ragnarok is quite pleased they haven't seen much of the D.A.R.E. Freaks anymore. And they befriended a new group of merchants.
Arriving at the last outpost Rag turns to his usual routine... Walking the perimeter, checking for oddities since they last were here or perhaps proof that the druids turned up again.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 19/11/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 39/43 -- Rage 13/17 Wednesday May 1st, 2013 11:38:58 AM
Asteron spends time checking his equipment, oiling it, getting rid of rust, sharpening blades, etc. The tree does give him pause, and he hopes that is not one of the fabled ents. It would just not do to be attacked by a giant tree at the same time we are attacked from the outside, he thinks. He shrugs. There is nothing he can do, except keep his eyes open.
And keep his eyes open he does, making sure the tree is not out of his field of view too much, just in case. He does make it a point to be helpful to the merchants, moving and carrying the heaviest loads he can before they settle for the night, not expecting anything in return.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Wednesday May 1st, 2013 11:39:30 AM
Out of ear shot fo the merchants, Yngvar asks the others, Any idea on seeing if that is a treant? The druids did say something about using a couple.
Yngvar keeps a wary eye on the large tree and settles himself away from it.
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=15 ; Wednesday May 1st, 2013 11:57:11 AM "Can't really think of much other than 'put it on fire and see if it screams'...", replies Faust, "That's not a terribly bad idea...I believe it should manifest itself if it seems like we're about to put it on fire, we'll just have to take care and not let an actual fire start."
"If anyone has got any idea, I'm all ears, don't remember much about treants, planned to do some research once we got back."
Knowledge (nature) to think of any way to make an treant from a tree (+10): 15, I assume this was a failure, but I can be wrong
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 29/29 Wednesday May 1st, 2013 2:24:50 PM "We could always try cutting it down for lumber." Toregan states. [/b]"If it is a treant, it would try to stop us and if its not, this station would get a good deal of lumber. We could then use the lumber to add that docking area to the island waystation. It'd be easier to transport it from here than the Post."[/b]
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 19/11/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 39/43 -- Rage 13/17 d20=7 ; d20=5 ; Wednesday May 1st, 2013 3:01:11 PM
OOC: forgot to make Asteron's rolls...
DM Kathy Wednesday May 1st, 2013 10:46:47 PM
You examine the tree in the middle of the waystation. Could it be a Treant? Is there a way to tell without setting it on fire or chopping it down?
Asteron realizes that the tree is probably too big to be a Treant. Most Treants top out at about 30 feet tall, and this tree is quite a bit taller.
Faust remembers that Treants can actually animate trees and make them move around. Chances are, this tree is not a Treant, but was brought here by one.
With that question settled, you are able to make camp.
In the morning, Howre and his merchants depart for Town. "We may look in at the Trading Post a little later," is all he will commit to.
You continue on your own, eventually poling to shore near the lift. By mid-afternoon, you are back at the Trading Post.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 33/34 - AC22/21/15 / 26 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Thursday May 2nd, 2013 6:58:49 AM "well apart from those lizards, the River God, a tribe of Kobolds and a group of freaks checking up on the waystations went fairly well no? Of course we did not check the last ones...
Now what?!"
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 19/11/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 39/43 -- Rage 13/17 Thursday May 2nd, 2013 8:15:57 AM "First, we should report and resupply, and then maybe someone should go to the Catacombs. Then, I guess we should pay a visit to that... Town... I guess. What do you thinl?"
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Thursday May 2nd, 2013 5:04:14 PM A trip to town sounds like a good idea. Especially if they had anything to do with our recent spat of misfortunes. Yngvar heads for the tavern, forget trail rations, I'm looking for a nice, juicy steak!
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Thursday May 2nd, 2013 10:55:57 PM "Hopefully the town will be much more cooperative than we're thinking and we'll be able to get a good deal with them."
"But all that is for later, for now let's report what we have to and eat tender soft hot meat until we're so full we'll be sick of it for a whole week!", says Faust, thinking to himself that this time he'll be able to properly remember the taste and duplicate it later with Prestidigitation...might as well make the trail rations taste good-ish.
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