End of Combat and the Beginning of an Opportunity. [DM SteveK] Monday August 29th, 2016 6:56:42 PM
The combat is full of confusion and noise. Suffice to say that the final score arrives, and our heroes are victorious! The [surviving] orcs are handed over to the authorities along with all the information the heroes have about the vampire cult in Floating City.
Tired and pretty much 'done', the heroes really have nothing other than to go back to their house sponsored by the Overlord. However, the heroes are not alone!
For there at the front steps is a travel-stained but well-built human sitting on a stone bench. He springs up, visibly wiping the fatigue from his manner and gives a deep bow.
"My Lords and Heroes, I am Hmitri of Magpie Crossing, and have travelled far to meet with you. Please, may I come in and speak?”
Know Geography (or Bardic Knowledge) DC 20 to reveal Highlight to display spoiler: { the name Hmitri reveals he is one of the Hmanas people that populate the Windborne Hills.}
Perception, Sense Motive DC 20 to reveal Highlight to display spoiler: { Hmitri is well-born, truthful, and earnest. He obviously has not even taken the time to freshen up before patiently cooling his heels at the front door like a begger. This man is desperate and hopeful that you can fix his problem. }
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 65/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) d20+9=13 ; Monday August 29th, 2016 8:38:36 PM
Velarin feels like there is something about this stranger that he should be picking up, but it currently evades him(perception 13), With this place not being his home, and having already irritated several party members, the elf decides it is best to wait. Let the others invite him into their home, and see what is said before pondering his course of action.
Evaris [1 Con damage] [AC 20; HP 74/62] (Kathy) Monday August 29th, 2016 9:15:48 PM
"Well met, Hmitri! I am Evaris Leafgreen, servant of Pantheon. And I am somewhat puzzled. Why did you not knock? I'm sure Roel would have let you in, seeking as you have business with us."
Edson... fixing header. 59 damage, unconscience. d20+19=25 ; Monday August 29th, 2016 10:21:41 PM
Edson sees the man and is a little worries, after a hard fought battle that almost cost them dearly, and now someone else needed them. He however greets the man with a smile and bow before walking past him and opening the door.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 30 (33 Raged); HP: 109/165 Raged; DR 2/- (DR 4/-) Monday August 29th, 2016 10:44:55 PM
Brom wanders up to the door, tired and ready to put his feet up, he says interrupting all others. "Yeah, let's go inside, get a large ale and some food, and listen to yur story."
Inside, Brom sets down his gear gets some ale, cheeses, and meat. He puts down on the table pours ales for everyone, grabbing his oversized mug, turning to Hmitri he says "Help yurself." He then finds a seat and plants his butt in it and takes a large drink before grabbing some of the food he laid out.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 30 (33 Raged); HP: 109/165 Raged; DR 2/- (DR 4/-) Monday August 29th, 2016 10:46:10 PM
He swallows down his drink. "Names Brom."
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp -01/51, deathwatch, true seeing, haste, invisibilty d20+10=12 ; d20+23=43 ; Monday August 29th, 2016 11:38:01 PM
(Knowledge [Geography] with Bardic Knowledge bonuses: 12 :( , Sense Motive: 43, nat20)
Emrys is surprised to be alive. He doesn't know what happened. He's in a lot of pain, moisture is all but leeched from his skin, his hair still lightly smokes; he dreads the prospect of having to cut out his burnt coppery locks that were once the stuff of legend. He has never taken such a beating, but of course this deck of cards was never stacked so greatly against him. By the time they arrive home, he practically needs to be carried. So it was quite understandable that he didn't catch the subtleties of his language. However after realizing they have company, Emrys does his best to endure the pain and be as pleasant as he possibly can.
"Greetings, Sir," he says after briefly clearing his throat. Leaning heavily on his walking stick, he graciously, yet clumsily welcomes the visitor to their home. "You caught us at a rather unfortunate time, but all is well now." Resisting the urge to wince in pain, he leads the good Hmitri into the parlor. "I must apologize, I must look a fright. The name is Emrys Myrridanmyl and I'm at your service."
Emrys is pleasantly surprise to see Brom have taken up the mantle of seeing to their guest's refreshment. He cracks a smile only to quickly realize his lip is actually cracked and bleeding. He takes a smoldering handkerchief from his pocket and dabs his lip.
He gives the man a quick glance and is pleasantly appreciates the cut of his jib. 'A man of quality,' he thinks, 'this should be interesting.' Looking at Brom, he says, "Thank you, Brom, this is quite wonderful," as he takes a cup. "Have a refreshment, sir. Relax and tell us what brings you here."
Lanliss Slowed HP26/50 HP 63/80 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+5=7 ; d20+16=32 ; Tuesday August 30th, 2016 3:55:10 AM
It's been a time, since we got into trouble Lanliss says sarcastically while thinking about how their last encounter almost killes all of them, again.. It's seems you have been on a long journey. Rest in our place and tell us whatever it is that brought you here. Lanliss says.
sense motive 7 perception 32
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 28 (T 13 FF 22), CMD:30; HP: 121/121Character Sheet d20+4=10 ; Tuesday August 30th, 2016 10:20:03 AM
Barratore scoops up Emrys and does indeed carry his friend and comrade back to the house. Seeing a man waiting for them, he gently sets Emrys to his feet to let the bard have the dignity of walking the last few feet to greet this herald. The fighter hangs back a bit to allow the others to say their peace and then he follows the rest inside and moves with Brom to get a drink and grab some additional food.
Barratore takes a seat in his large chair, setting his blade and shield to the side and refilling his large tankard. "Barratore Steelwind of the Starlight clan" he says just before raising his second glass for a drink
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 65/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) Tuesday August 30th, 2016 5:13:26 PM
Velarin allows the others to do the talking. He sits back to hear the tale about to be told, and later offer his best judgement upon a course of action.
Memorized Spells: 1st: Protection from evil, Burning Hands, Mage armor(extended)-C, Magic Missile, Magic missile, Magic missile, Magic missile 2nd: Invisibility, Invisibility, Mirror image, Scorching ray, Scorching ray, Knock 3rd: Lightning bolt, Haste=C, Dispel Magic, Lightning bolt, Displacement, Fly-C 4th: Dim Door, Black Tentacles, Ice storm, empower scorching ray, empower scorching ray 5th: Cone of cold, Cone of cold, empowered lightning bolt, Wall of force 6th: Chain lightning, Greater dispel magic
Hmitri's Offer [DM SteveK] Tuesday August 30th, 2016 5:46:45 PM
The heroes, the wounds of war still upon them, still show thier hospitality by allowing the travel-stained stranger into thier house. Roel is there, just coming up from the pantry, puffing for breath with a short keg over his shoulder. "I felt you might be needing...", Roel begins, but both sees the stranger and Brom who has no problem with helping himself. "And may be needing a bit more?", Roel asks to no one as he turns to bring more refreshment to the table.
Velarin keeps quiet, his own arrival and recently speaking his mind still new enough that he allows someone else to take the lead.
Evaris slides into the natural pause and cordially invites Hmitri inside. The human makes a conciliatory gesture. "One of your neighbor's was kind enough to mention you had left in some haste and in my fatigue I did not think to knock for the servants. It was you I wished to speak with in any case!"
Edson gives Hmitri a smile and opens the door invitingly....
To have Brom stride right in and make a beeline for the smorgasboard. A drink in one hand, a 'help yurself ' in the other, the barbarian provides a rough and genial welcome.
Emrys, hair still smoking and within an inch of his life still provides elegance to the simple task of saying hello. And more invitations to a cup, a chair, and a conversation.
Lanliss echoes the others, noting Hmitri has been on a long trip.
Barratorre, looming over the others, provides his name and clan as is proper, and let's the stranger make the first overtures. ....
Hmitri thanks the assembled heroes very much, and accepts an ale with tired but polished grace. He doesn't so much sit as glide into an unoccupied chair, and doesn't seem bothered by seven rugged adventurers all about.
"And again, I am Hmitri of Magpie Crossing, lord of Castle Stormwind and member of the Pitchfork Council of Cinnamon Valley. I have travelled long to arrive here in Floating City to ask an old ally for assistance, and..."
He looks about and schools himself. "Best if I give a summation first? Yes. ". Hmitri takes another sip.
"Cinnamon Valley is in the south west corner of what is called the Windbourne Hills. Even before the Great Cataclysm, it has been known as a fertile land full of hardworking people. And we are a land nearly surrounded by stronger realms and wilderness foes. Our history is full of stories of conquerers enslaving the people and then liberation by heroes. As long as we had a hero group in the Valley, we have been safe, but we haven't had any for some years."
Hmitri looks into seven faces. "Noble adventurers. The Dragon Consortium themselves have helped free us twice, in the form of the Platnuim Dragons and Gray Dragons. And I shamelessly used my contacts at the WLA and the DC to get the name of a group who may be willing to help with our many troubles. When I heard of you and that you were living at our one-time ally Floating City, I immediately got my retinue together and journeyed here. I have already spoken with the Overlord who has agreed to sever his contract with you if you take up my offer."
"Will you be our heroes?"
Hmitri waits for the barrage of questions.
Evaris [1 Con damage] [AC 20; HP 74/62] (Kathy) d6=5 ; d6=2 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ; d6=4 ; d6=3 ; Tuesday August 30th, 2016 8:13:54 PM
Evaris winces a little to hear Roel described as a "servant," but he lets it pass for now. "Well, it's an interesting suggestion," he says. "Tell us more about Cinnamon Valley. A rustic place, is it?"
As the conversation goes forward, Evaris begins channeling positive energy to heal himself and his companions. And Hmitri, if he is injured at all.
Everyone who cares to be healed is healed 23 points.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 30 (33 Raged); HP: 109/165 Raged; DR 2/- (DR 4/-) Tuesday August 30th, 2016 10:07:20 PM
Brom sits causally listening until Hmitri mentions the dragons. Opponents strong enough for Dragons to be needed to crush 'em... Thinks the barbarian as a smile appears on his face. For many moments his gaze drifts off before snapping back to the present.
"When do we leave?" He says.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 Tuesday August 30th, 2016 11:29:18 PM
"I am not gonna lie. I thought the big city would be a refreshing take and go back to the days of my youth, but this city has annoyed me to no end. I am down, if we can leave sooner then later." Edson says while downing his ale.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp23/51 Wednesday August 31st, 2016 12:06:21 AM
"Lord Hmitri, we are all quite honored that you have gone to so much trouble to find us. We have not been here long, but I think my friends will agree, our time here has felt much too long. While this city does have a unique charm, it lacks in a great many things. Like the feeling of ones feet against the warm earth, the soft grasses between my toes. The sound of a gentle breeze through the trees. I must say it all sounds like music to my ears. I have visited the Cinnamon Valley briefly from time to time ... traveled there with my father as a child. I am from Culverwood, just to the south."
Emrys can feel the positive energy heal his wounds. A wonderful sensation ... and he gives a very thankful nod to Evaris.
When Brom says, 'When do we leave?' Emrys must restrain a chuckle. "Well said, my dear Brom, you are so right! I believe we are all quite eager to leave this small island of stone. This city has felt like a gilded cage, let us be free of it."
"Lord Hmitri, you have our attention ... what are these troubles of which you speak and how can we help?"
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 28 (T 13 FF 22), CMD:30; HP: 121/121Character Sheet Wednesday August 31st, 2016 7:53:50 AM
Barratore hoists his tankard at Brom's desire to go and nods in full agreement as the others echo his own thoughts aloud as to his desire to be done with this place. Fields, open sky, evil to thwart and good people to to keep safe. And a lord who cares so much to make it so, he would come himself. Barratore knew little of the valley Hmtri speaks of or the kingdoms and fiefdoms about it. But he could learn some at least, surely Emrys knows tales a plenty. (1rank local)
Barratore stands, "Just need to grab a couple things and we can be on the road." The Minotaur heads upstairs to his room to collect a few affects
Lanliss Slowed HP26/50 HP 63/80 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 Wednesday August 31st, 2016 12:44:37 PM
I grew up in the area of Crescent valley. Lanliss says nostalgic about the past. I assume it's get less busy there unless there are troubles to dealt with like dragons for example or invading armies Gargul forbid. After thinking for a second Lanliss agrees for Hmitri's proposal..
Hmitri's Tale of Cinnamon Valley [DM SteveK] Wednesday August 31st, 2016 5:38:33 PM
The heroes are quite eager to leave the Gilded Cage of Floating City, and a couple surprise Hmitri by telling him to hold on a minute and they'll be ready to go!
There is also some talk of dragons and invading dragons, and Hmitri is quick to dispel any rumors before they start. "My lords, please, I must have mis-spoke. When I spoke of Dragons I meant the heroic adventuring group, the Dragon Consortium. Valdor Dragonstone, K'nara the first human Bladesinger, and Monthor of the Axehead Clan to name just a few. " (As soon as Hmitri mentions the names, there can be no confusion. Everyone has heard of the Dragon Consortium, the elite of the elite of Woldian heroes!)
"Cinnamon Valley is nearly 100 miles from your Cresant Valley, m'lord Lanliss. And while the Cresant is protected by the Giant Towers in the north, the Bay of Elennia to the east, and the powerful Kingdom of Elennia herself, Cinnamon Valley was not so lucky.
To our south lays the Culverwood where Parnoth, a truly evil green dragon held sway. To the north, the undead necromancers called the Sons of Dread. The east was where the giant invasions came from, and to the west, only warring city-states that are still nearly as dangerous to be an ally as an enemy.
Right now, Parnoth is slain and the Sons of Dread broken. But thier downfall has left vast tracts of land in a power vacuum. And that is what I am afraid of. What is taking thier place? Why, the reason I came is that my farmers to the north of Magpie Crossing are reporting blight and sickness. These things just don't happen in Cresant Valley, and I wonder if a new evil is taking residence in the old forest hideaways of the Dread."
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 30 (33 Raged); HP: 109/165 Raged; DR 2/- (DR 4/-) Wednesday August 31st, 2016 10:01:12 PM
"Yeah, what I figured. You guys get baddies an' ya need heroes ta keep 'em at bay. Sounds like fun ta me. I think we're all onboard just tell us when yur ready ta leave an' we'll be ready."
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 Wednesday August 31st, 2016 10:03:05 PM
Hmmm.. Edson noises out loud. " Guess Ill get to use the supplies i picked up for the vamps anyway." 1
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 28 (T 13 FF 22), CMD:30; HP: 121/121Character Sheet Wednesday August 31st, 2016 10:37:21 PM
Barratore comes back down, "Keep things at bay is for the guard and where's the fun in that." Barratore claps his friend on the shoulder, "Worry not Brom, I'll send you a gift as I root them out and you stand pretty on watch." Barratoer quickly steps left hoping to clear the area before Brom drills him with a left cross
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp23/51 Wednesday August 31st, 2016 10:38:39 PM
Emrys knew quite well what Hmitri had meant by 'dragons'. Emrys smiles very wide when he mentions Valdor and his Gold Dragons, or who I called him as a child, Uncle Valdo. He thinks the good nobleman hasn't made the connection yet after introductions were made. Not yet realizing that he is the son of a Gold Dragon, Myrridan the Wild. He wasn't as famous as the founding members, but he had made a name for himself before being invited to join their ranks. 'Maybe I'll keep that a secret for now,' he continues to think.
"I guess we're all in agreement, you don't need to sell us your proposal, Lord Hmitri. When do you wish to return? As you can see, I may need a little time, at least a day, to convalesce from the trials of the morning."
Evaris [1 Con damage] [AC 20; HP 74/62] (Kathy) Wednesday August 31st, 2016 10:54:58 PM
"Indeed," Evaris says, "I think you will find us all quite willing to relocate. Preparations must be made, of course, but I think you will find us ready to travel...." he glances around at his companions, "Tomorrow? Or the day after?"
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 65/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) Thursday September 1st, 2016 9:04:55 AM
(Ooc: sorry about the short posts. Moving my daughter into college in Denver. Should be back to normal tomorrow.)
Velarin ponders for a few extra minutes what both Hmitri and his companions have said, and then agrees. "It definitely sounds like you need the help, and more open space and situations that are less likely to burn half a city down should be suited well to my particular abilities. Count me in."
Lanliss Slowed HP26/50 HP 63/80 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 Thursday September 1st, 2016 10:22:12 AM
I am in as well, Lanliss says. Lanliss day dreams about building a tower or putting some sort of defense to protect the place. I think we will need just this day to rest and by tomorrow morning we will be ready to go Lanliss says after day dreaming
Heroes and Hmitri's Retinue [DM SteveK] Thursday September 1st, 2016 7:38:36 PM
Most of the group of heroes are ready to go now if not sooner. :-). Emrys, Evaris, Lanliss, and Velarin understand sense of timing and consider to leave in a day or two. Emrys also thinks about his past and if Hmitri knows or not. Of course, it is all speculation because the bard didn't check for any sense of Hmitri's motive, nor did he read the noble's mind...
As it happens, Hmitri has another couple of tricks up his sleeve. He has coordinated to send the group by Floating City's Teleport Circle to go directly from Floating City to Magpie Crossing. But it will take a few days since he had to schedule time between other priority teleportations. "Still, it is the difference of getting to know me and my retinue for three days and we are there, versus a hard travel of about a month over some extremely difficult terrain. And you heroes may be ready, but I'm worn out!" The noble excuses himself and leaves the heroes to their own devices.
The next day, Hmitri sends an invitation to a dinner at his rented house. In a hand-written note, he asks the heroes to come to meet some of his people, and not just here his story from one person.
The heroes have all day to make what final preparations they wish in the Floating City.
On the dinner hour, Hmitri himself welcomes any hero that arrives. The foyer is decked in a smorgasboard of finger foods and a keg of strong ale while wait staff moves about refilling drinks with water, iced fruit juices, wine or beer. Throughout the night, different groups get up on a low stage in the corner, inexpertly singing or playing instruments to liven the night.
The heroes can meet Hmitri's staff and some representatives from Magpie Crossing who travel liked with Lord Hmitri. They are all happy to see the heroes have accepted the position, and also have only glowing things to say about Hmitri.
The oldest from Magpie Crossing is a cleric of Alemi. "Brother Daevon at your service, and lead cleric of Alemi in Magpie Crossing. Young Hmitri is the spitting image of his father, rest his soul, and takes his obligations seriously, that he does!"
The retinue from Cinnamon Valley is not serving; the servants all seem to be hired from Floating City so the heroes can speak with the men and women all evening until the Teleport Circle is ready after midnight.
Evaris (Kathy) Thursday September 1st, 2016 10:15:33 PM
Before the group turns in for the night, Evaris makes sure that everyone is healed up to full.
The next morning, he is finally able to cure himself of the lingering effects of the vampire fight.
He wears his best vestments to the dinner with Lord Hmitri, and enjoys the food and good fellowship he finds there.
"Brother Daevon, it is very nice to meet you," he says. "About how large is Magpie Crossing? Is it the largest town in Cinnamon Vale? Are there other temples, besides the one to Alemi?"
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp23/51 Thursday September 1st, 2016 11:25:09 PM
As soon as the meet and greet is concluded, he shuts himself away in his room and has a hot bath drawn. For the next few hours, he has several unseen servants pamper, scrub, massage and also gently comb his damaged hair with his #3 soft bristle brush. Then comes the moisturizer creams, and Emrys has his magical servants slather his body completely; using the last of his supply. There is a brief moment when Evaris enters his room, to finish off some healing spells, and catches the bewitching mystic in his nakedness. It doesn't bother Emrys, but he feigns modesty and has a servant hand him his silken house robe.
The next morning he spends in front of his mirror, pondering what to do. The damage to his hair was far worse than expected. He takes his silver scissors and carefully snips away burnt pieces of his coppery hair. "What's this?' he says. He spots several hairs of a different color ... silvery ... the gentle, luster of platinum. "No, no, what is this?!!" Who knows what the effect the fire had done to him ... time will only tell.
Until he knows for sure, he will keep this a secret from the rest. He takes his hat of disguise and has it take the form into a decorative comb. After placing it in his hair, he uses its glamouring power to make his hair look like it did before ... and to smooth out a few imperfections.
When everything looks the way it should, he goes down and joins everyone for dinner.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 Friday September 2nd, 2016 12:12:35 AM
Edson picks between the servants and others, picking at the food. He keeps quiet and just watches and enjoys.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 65/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) Friday September 2nd, 2016 9:18:42 AM
Velarin attends the party, sampling the food and drink provided. The Elf wears his usual clothing, as he has no others, mostly because he has never needed others, and prefers it that way.
he moves throughout the room, speaking to numerous people, preferring the ones that are simpler dressed. He tries to speak with any that are commoners or live out in the areas where the blood shed has been occurring, hoping to get first hand accounts of what has been going on. Velarin is looking to hear from those that have more at stake than the fullness of their purses
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 30 (33 Raged); HP: 109/165 Raged; DR 2/- (DR 4/-) Friday September 2nd, 2016 9:57:33 AM
Brom laughs sarcastically at Barratore's jab. "You crack me up...send me a gift, you can barely root the booger in yur nose. You can keep that."
Brom packs all his things and has them waiting for the migration. At the party, Brom is Brom. He drinks and eats and enjoys the party. He mingles only a little since this crowd was never his kind of people, and spends his time just observing the people and enjoying the drink.
Lanliss Slowed HP26/50 HP 63/80 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 Friday September 2nd, 2016 1:05:10 PM
Lanliss wears his best adventure clothes and goes to drink with Brom. (just one ale)
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 28 (T 13 FF 22), CMD:30; HP: 121/121Character Sheet Friday September 2nd, 2016 7:01:05 PM
The Minotaur grins back at Brom. "Watch yourself, whatever I find up there, you can't lick"
Barratore Ducks into the catacombs for a couple things, as well as a weapon smith
At the dinner he has on just his chain shirt with a new blue tunic and loose wool pants. The fighter buys garments by the gross as they get shredded in every fight he's in
At dinner, he enjoys a great deal of drink and food and asks if anything specific earned the trip here. "General things and possible things were mentioned, but anything solid all ready going on?"
Dinner, Teleport, and a Surprise! [DM SteveK] Saturday September 3rd, 2016 12:38:48 PM During the Day The heroes take care of thier own needs, whether baths and grooming, visits to the Catacombs, or packing.
During Dinner The food is good and the drink flows freely where the mood is fun but not boisterous.
Evaris speaks with Brother Daevon who genially responds. "Magpie Crossing has about 500 souls in the town and twice that number in farms, crafters, and woodsmen about the area. The largest settlement, however, is Jarlswolf, and that's where the Pitchfork Council meets when they need. In Magpie Crossing, there is also a Temple to Domi and smaller unmanned shrines to Pantheon, Flower, Ffloy, Gargul, and the Sisters (who were the patrons of the Valley until the Year of Ascension)."
Velarin moves about the room to speak with Hmitri's retinue. The elf finds that Hmitri brought six people on the journey with him; Brother Daevon, a prosperous farmer named Willim from north of a town called Witchspawn, an older warrior called Hmark who doubles as Hmitri's Guards Captain and Bodyguard, Bistoc, a large heavyset man who owns a trading company in Jarlswolf, and two younger men, Ghillie and Willie Flett. In speaking with the others, Vel learns that 'bloodshed' is a bit of an overstatement; none of the Cinnamoners know about anyone getting killed. Ghillie is the most talkative, "I think Da sent us with m'lord Hmitri in order to keep us out of trouble. Don't know why, but it happens a lot. Da calls us a 'magnet'. He owns the furniture maker in Magpie Crossing, and we're looking to apprentice with someone but not with Da."
Brom, Lanliss, and Barratore drink in a corner alone, and it turns out Hmark joins them. The older warrior seems to prefer the non-talkative company of others who earn a living with arms. Barratore asks a question, and Hmark responds. "North of Magpie Crossing is the border of the woods called The Dread. Cinnamon Valley is fertile and healthy, people just don't get sick like they are getting sick on the north farms. And there are more undead up there too. More than has been there since the Dread was killed and the Sons scattered. For something more specific than that, the Witches are Doing what witches do to find out. We'll get a briefing on our return."
At the Telepot Circle. Just after midnight, the heroes and Hmitri's retinue take the short walk through the upper level of Floating City; the luxury shops, high-end restaurants, most manor houses are all closed. Temples have few worshippers, but the lifeline of Floating City to the rest of civilization is buzzing 24 hours a day.
Normally, the Circle only goes to pre-set areas, but Hmitri must have burned every favor Cinnamon Valley still had with Floating City in order to get a special diverted 'port. The heroes and Hmitri's six member party, Roel and Finn and Glenda (who Hmitri says is part of the bargain with the Overlord), and the little Kitten are all able to get on the platform.
The platform hums, the mages perform thier incantations and the Wold goes blue-white as, for less than a blink of the eye, everything ceases to exist...
... And the Wold returns as a grass lawn in the middle of a town under a night sky. Looking about and after a quick count, it turns out the party has increased by one. Besides the heroes, Roel, Glenda, Finn, Hmitri and his retinue, there is a thin man with an air of health and quiet confidence standing with them!
For Baslim's part, the last he remembers is walking down a road near Plateau City in the middle of the day!
Certainly, something strange has happened!
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 65/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) d20+19=33 ; Saturday September 3rd, 2016 3:20:48 PM
Velarin is startled at the appearance of the stranger, and instinctively moves his hands towards a spellcasting position before his brain over takes his reactions. Remembering his own mishap with the faulty teleporter, it is logical that another such irregularity has occured. He quickly looks over the man and speaks.
"Greetings good sir. I am Velarin Xilontheel. I am going to assume, based on a logical view of the nature of magic, and the floating city's faulty teleporter, (knowledge arcane check 33 for this to be the most likely scenario) that you are not where you expected to be. If this a correct assumption, then I suppose I will be the first to welcome you to cinnamon valley."
Velarin looks to Hmitri "We are in Cinnamon valley, are we not?"
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 Saturday September 3rd, 2016 5:48:37 PM
You see a well-groomed man with short white hair combed straight back. His eyes are a deep blue, with small flecks of silver near the iris. His skin is taut and weathered from long days of travel. He has small freckles on his nose, high cheek bones, and a strong jaw. His deep set eyes are framed by a heavy brow. He is dressed in a patched and travel-worn green tunic and pants, covered by a brown woolen cloak. He wears simple leather sandals on his feet. He carries only a shepherd's crook and bears no other weapons. He is tall, with a wiry frame and straight posture.
He looks around, understandably confused and bewildered. "By the Light!" He raises his hand in a gesture as though ready to cast a spell, but pauses when he is greeted by a friendly elf. "Wait, what? I was in New Elennia." He looks around trying to get his bearings. "The stars are the same. Are we... I'm sorry. I am Shepherd Baslim. I am a servant of Alemi." The man has a kind baritone voice, but noticeably stressed by what just happened to him. "I was a half-day's journey from Plateau City when I was... struck by lightning? But it had no sound and I am not hurt. Who is your group?"
DM SteveK. OOC. Changes place names in Players post. Please read DM Post.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 Saturday September 3rd, 2016 5:58:34 PM
Knowledge (Religion) check vs. DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Baslim is a Paragon, a blessed servant of Alemi. He radiates wellness and healing as a fire radiates heat.}
ooc: This is a class ability. Anyone who meets me gets to make this check.
Lanliss Slowed HP26/50 HP 63/80 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 Sunday September 4th, 2016 7:00:43 AM
Lanliss moves his hand to the knife only to stop when thinking about Velarin. Another incident with using magic to teleport or rather a last addition to the group. Lanliss says It is outstanding. Lanliss says loudly and laughs from what just happened. Someone , somewhere is keeping a good watchful eye on us. He concludes
Evaris (Kathy) Sunday September 4th, 2016 12:39:20 PM
"Well met, Shepherd Baslim," Evaris says. "I am Evaris Leafgreen, a servant of Pantheon. I regret that circumstances seem to have pulled you away from your home, but I hope we can be friends nonetheless."
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 30 (33 Raged); HP: 132/132 (165 raged); DR 2/- (DR 4/-) d20+16=18 ; Sunday September 4th, 2016 9:27:11 PM
The fanciness of the send off takes Brom back. This level of who's who is way over the barbarian's head, all the mages makes the barbarian a little nervous. The flash of magic and in the blink of an eye, or maybe a few blinks and the group arrives, with a plus one...
"What the..." Says the barbarian as he instinctively reaches for a weapon and the complete surprise, but quickly determines that this plus one does not seem to be a danger.
"Alemi, ya say?" He says more to himself that to Shepard. "Names Brom, Shep, an' looks like you got called...good ta have ya along. You can bet we'll keep ya busy."
Perception DC 18
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 28 (T 13 FF 22), CMD:30; HP: 121/121Character Sheet d20+4=7 ; Monday September 5th, 2016 9:05:42 AM
A flash and the minotaur is with the group. He doesn't notice the extra man until well after the fact. What he does take note of, is that they are outside. Barratore puts out his arms to either side as wide as he can and slowly turns in a complete circle. It is after this and largely due to the others making introductions, that he spies the cleric of Alemi.
"Where'd you come from?"
"I am Barratore Steelwind of the Starlight clan. Good to meet a cleric of Alemi always."
LOG ON