DM Mark - The Weight of Glory Tuesday September 5th, 2017 3:49:32 PM
As you leave Frog Hollow, Evaris offers that the villagers can accompany them to Magpie Crossing if they wish, but cannot make them adventurers. The villagers do not go with you. The young woman he spent the night with can see he shows her no special attention and goes away a bit sad.
Lanliss does purchase the tin hat, which earns him an eager thumbs-up from the odd man that made it and wears one himself. The rogue remains concerned that he was so easily controlled. ----------------------------- As the group, two groups really, approach the town of Magpie Crossing they encounter folk that seem to be on the lookout for their arrival. With their arrival, folk seem to pour out of their houses in the afternoon light. The sun hangs low, providing limited warmth in the winter air.
Barratore is quick to catch the attention of the gathering crowd, and Enlarges himself to be even more dramatic. He move with them to the town square, and holds the crowds enraptured with his telling of the party’s aventure. There are oohs and ahas, and even some gasps as he brandishes the now huge sword and speaks of the death of the Shadow Lord.
Brom is a bit puzzled by the speed at which news of their arrival reach the town. He is momentarily caught up by the crowd, but they quickly lose interest in the taciturn barbarian in favor of the huge minotaur storyteller. Still, there are a few human boys that follow Brom to the manor, seeming to better identify with him than the best back in the town square. They are impressed with his wounds, and a couple are eager show him a skinned knee and a cut on an arm. When he goes for his bath, they are there waiting, and follow their hero.
As the rest arrive, there is even more excitement in the town - their heroes have all returned. Velarin makes some excuse about his stomach and vanishes, which is also rather exciting. Evaris relates some of the events, but says there was no dragon. One woman responds, “Oh, but we seen a dragon awright! It spat gouts o� flame as it flew across the sky and off into the distance. We thought it come from Glitterox like you all did.”r
Emrys begins talking to his clothing, which draws a few stares. Baslim asks how news of you all travelled so quickly. Both are eager to rest.
Edson encourage the minotaur and the crowds.
Lord Hmitri is quick to step into the spotlight. He gestures to the party, and is quickly also telling of your exploits, which seem to increase in heroic deeds, even beyond what you recall.
Festivities continue that night for any that will join. This crowd really looks up to these Keepers of the Vale. Lord Hmitri suggests that, as heroes you are also role models and have a responsibility to the town. He explains that people need something to believe in, to give them hope, and that in small or large ways, they will emulate the group. He has clearly aligned himself with the heroes, and he suddenly seems as popular as you all are.
What do you do over the next day? How do you treat folks?
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 33 (36 Raged); HP: 45/165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Tuesday September 5th, 2017 10:02:12 PM
Brom shows the boys one of his wounds. "The cost of living by the sword." He tells them as he heads to the bathhouse. He stops for a second and looks at the boys. "You guys wanna do me a favor? Head over to the smithy and ask him if he's got time to do some repairs on my armor this week. When ya get back an' tell me what he said, there's a silver for each of ya."
Brom spends several hours at the spa. Before heading home, he goes to the temple of Alemi. There he asks to have his wounds properly dressed, but he does not want magical healing. When asked why, he say "That's because I could use some rest, and if I don't heal my wounds magically, then I'm forced to take it easy and rest. These wounds should give me a week of rest."
It isn't hard to hear about the tales of a dragon flying around the mountains and the concerns of the people of Magpie Crossing. Because of this, he decides to make a short appearance to the celebration. While at the party, Brom sits away from the crowds and drinks much less than normal. He stays for a couple of hours before leaving.
Evaris (Kathy) Tuesday September 5th, 2017 10:13:57 PM
Once back in Magpie Crossing, Evaris goes to check on Roel and see how he's getting along. He also checks on the kitten called Valdor.
In the days that follow, Evaris makes sure to wear his vestments and display his holy symbol of Pantheon prominently when talking about the groups' deeds. After all, if Lord Hmitri is going to borrow some of their glory, it seems only right that Pantheon should get his share as well.
Evaris answers any questions anybody has, and willingly goes over the exciting bits again and again--but he does not exaggerate, and he takes care to correct any exaggerations he hears.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 29 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:34; HP: 162/162 Character Sheet Tuesday September 5th, 2017 10:18:05 PM
Barratore spends the next few days relaxing in the sun, drinking, eating and glad handing with anyone who comes near him. He spends his morning sleeping, early afternoon is a workout followed by a nap and drinking. Dinner and then another light workout, drinking and sleep
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. ritual: ward Wednesday September 6th, 2017 12:42:24 AM
Emrys spends the next several days relaxing and being pampered by unseen servants, while Angus tends to matters and business of the Slithery Root. Since it's he middle of winter, there isn't much to do except for tending to herbs and flowers of the greenhouse. His elven follower, Elbereth, is sent to Culverheart to retrieve a few tomes from the family library. Their information should prove useful.
He eventually brings the most recent gathered treasures to the grand dinner table. Arranges them neatly in piles. It's time the spoils of war be dealt with. The surprisingly tall Angus (Emrys' cohort) looks upon the pile with little to no expression. He stands stoic and motionless like a statue. He's NOT an attractive human, but he is impeccably dressed and very, well groomed; even pleasantly scented. His height makes one think he's a half-giant; the top of his head is easily level with Barratore's shoulders. However Emrys has squashed that theory several times in private, saying ...'his frame lacks the bulk and an over-sized head, the common hallmarks of a half-giant heritage.'
"Impressive, isn't it?"
"Yess.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) d20+21=25 ; Wednesday September 6th, 2017 9:30:06 AM
V takes some time to relax, and enjoy a soft bed and warm meals. He spends much of his time reading through his books and spells, but spends some time wandering about magpie crossing. He makes the effort to meet people, hear their stories, and tell a few of his own, avoiding large crowds if possible. He tries to convey that the Keepers are there to help, and they should always feel free to ask for it if needed.
If in his wanderings, he hears again about this dragon that breathed flame, he will ask for as much information as possible regarding where, when, and in which direction it flew. He is definitely interested in how many people saw this sight. Perhaps something more than gems and metals had been set free when the mountain erupted. He thinks back to the dissipating globs of metal, and scours his memory for a possible spell component or result that they could have been(spellcraft 25)
Once Emrys pulls forth the treasure, Velarin joins in. "Yes Emrys, it is probably time to divvy things up. I'm sure many of us will take a visit to the catacombs. The gems and metals should be easily divisible amongst ourselves, and it appears we only have four magic items on hand. A cloak of arachnida, a periapt of wound closure, an Onyx fog figurine, and a portable hole. The hole would seem to be a valuable commodity as a group item. Would anyone else like to lay claim to something?"
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Wednesday September 6th, 2017 1:43:47 PM
edson takes his time to relax and hirlt up the spa. if je has a chancs he heads over for wla training as well as a stop by the catacombs.
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Wednesday September 6th, 2017 7:56:29 PM
Lanliss puts most his stuff in their place in the room, He packs only essentials (torch, weapons and rations) and tells the party members that he will go to Witchspawn for a few days. While arriving at Witchspawn he will look for Dulcet as he has some questions that needed to be answered.
DM Mark - The Weight of Glory Wednesday September 6th, 2017 9:04:23 PM
The air is brisk in the mornings and cool in the afternoons. It may be approaching winter, but winters in the Cinnamon Valley are mild.
Brom tells the boys following him that his wounds are the cost of living by the sword. He gives them an errand to contact the local smith. All the boys go and return, eager to earn the offered payment. Brom learns that the smith will address his needs and is willing to put aside other work to do so. In addition, the boys seem to have gained some local notoriety acting as messengers for a local hero.
Evaris check on Roel. The old man is well given his frail state. He sports a bruise on his right arm, and explains he got it when those rotten boys Willie and Ghillie were fixing a problem with a window, got to rough housing, and Ghillie was knocked into the old cleric. He hasn’t healed it yet, hoping the boys will feel some remorse. It doesn’t seem to be working.
Barratore relaxes and enjoys the festivities and the attention.
Emrys creates his own magical attendants, and sees to his followers. He begins to sort and discuss the treasure.
Velarin relaxes as well and takes the time to exchange tales with locals, though he tends to avoid large crowds. In particular, he pays attention to any mention of a dragon or those dissipating lumps of stone-like material. He also helps Emrys with the treasure.
Edson too takes it easy, glad to be able to exercise on his terms instead of running and fighting like his life depended on it.
Lanliss says he is going to Witchspawn to visit the witch Dulcet for a few days.
Lord Hmitri says that the members of the Pitchfork Council, the local ruling body, will convene in Magpie Crossing in about a week (this will include Dulcet - does Lanliss still go?) Hmitri says they will want to meet with the heroes.
As discussions continue, several issues come up:
Dragon - several people spotted a dragon, high up, shortly before Glitterox erupted. Some saw it breathe a gout of flame, others did not. It is difficult to say how large it was. It seemed to be headed north, but others say west.
Solstice and Renewal Festivities - As Solstice and Renewal festivities get into full swing, there is a great deal of activity, with gatherings being planned.
Lumps of Stone-like Material - there are a few reports of large lumps of a strange grey material spewing from Glitterox in the days preceding the eruption. They seemed to fall randomly, but evaporated in the sunlight.
General Requests for Help - The heroes are often pestered at the Manor with requests for help or intervention. Marital spats, healing, advice on investments, deciding on who actually owns a shared barn - all manner of things. Lord Hmitri is somewhat annoyed at being displaced a bit.
Carrots and Onions - It’s quite remarkable that the carrots and onions harvested this year grew to an enormous size, some weighing in at 3 pounds each!
Valdor the Kitten - The kitten has gone missing.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 29 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:34; HP: 162/162 Character Sheet Wednesday September 6th, 2017 9:59:36 PM
Barratore voices that a share of the treasure for him is fine, he did not particularly care for any of the items.
Rumors of a dragon now in the area has the fighters attention fully and he thinks the powerful casters should be looking into it. "Surely there are some spells that could be employed to track or at least confirm it"
Barratore nods at the thought of the council wanting to meet with them. He intends to sit and listen while the more verbally adept members of the party do the talking.
Over the course of the next days as people come to seek help, Barratore does what he can. though it quickly becomes apparent that the help seekers are looking for something other than physical assistance. Still he has knowledge of the region and of engineering and if those skills could also be of aid, he does what he can
Evaris (Kathy) Wednesday September 6th, 2017 11:04:12 PM
[OOC: Roel isn't old; just very badly damaged]
Evaris lets out a tsk! at the sight of the bruise. "If they haven't felt guilty about it by now," he says, "I doubt they're going to. I'd say go ahead and heal it up. When did you last see Valdor?"
Evaris will heal anyone who shows up looking for healing. As a servant of Pantheon, he is of course happy to mediate disputes, as long as both parties agree to the mediation. He does not, however, offer any investment advice.
"We should probably attend what Solstice and Renewal festivals we can," he tells his companions. "But I'm concerned about that dragon. If we get a lead on its location, we should probably go looking for it."
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 33 (36 Raged); HP: 45/165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Wednesday September 6th, 2017 11:40:08 PM
Brom thanks the boys and gives them the promised silver coins.
He also doesn't want the items and only wants a share.
He agrees with Barratore that the spellcasters should put their talents to use and find out more information on what it is.
The upcoming celebrations are of some interest, but only as a participant in the drinking goes. All else are seem too much of a bother.
Brom is not a counselor or any of the like and doesn't participate in petty disputes among the villagers.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+20 -- CMD 16 Wednesday September 6th, 2017 11:52:58 PM
ooc: Apologies for missing yesterday. I went home and thought, "It's 6 o'clock. I'll just lie down for a quick nap before I need to get dinner ready for the kids." I woke up 13 hours later when my clock rang at 7:00 AM. :/
Baslim shuns the attention of the crowd as soon as possible. It just wouldn't do for the attention to get to his head. He is an ascetic, after all! He detaches and retires to the house to rest from their journey.
When the party gathers, he chimes in. "I would like to visit the Catacombs first. We should be prepared for anything we face."
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Thursday September 7th, 2017 8:28:33 AM
V suggests that the group as a whole listen to the requests of the people, but refer most matters not involving their specialties, like Marital spats, advice on investments, deciding on who actually owns a shared barn - all manner of things, to lord Hmitri.
"Ok, so we appear to be selling everything. Unless there are objections, I will take the items to the catacombs to sell and return with an even share for all like last time.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. ritual: ward Thursday September 7th, 2017 1:32:19 PM
Listening to Evaris discuss the dragon, Emrys also shows concern about the news of a dragon.
"Yes, I recall someone mentioning they saw a dragon ... however I was unsure if they mistook the Glitterox's eruption with that of a dragons. If there are many witnesses who saw a dragon, this is most certainly worthy of investigation." He thinks for a bit and continues, "Perhaps a Vision Quest is in order ... a trip back to the Glitterox. See what my third-eye can see ... or physical evidence of a scale or two."
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. ritual: ward Thursday September 7th, 2017 2:08:00 PM
After Lanliss tells his fellowship that he is off to Witchspawn to consult with Dulcet. Emrys isn't sure why he didn't come to him first.
"You know Lanliss, if you have need of a coven, there is one here on the property at your disposal. I and the Slithery Root* are here to aid you in whatever you need."
(*The Slithery Root has ten members, including Angus and Daemon (Emrys' viper spirit companion) and an assortment of familiars.)
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Thursday September 7th, 2017 5:33:36 PM
Lanliss will still go to see Duclet. He have many questions for the witch. One of them if she knows a true way to prevent mind control, as there were far too many Lanliss was a liability for the team and had caused only troubles. The second question of his is a quite the question, he asks her what is her source of magic and how is she able to cast magic and if he can learn it too, despite his misgivings with magic long time ago in the academy. Lanliss will help Duclet with anything she needs.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Thursday September 7th, 2017 6:04:13 PM
" Dragon? Hmm.. might be a test. planes, demons, and now a dragon. One day we'll bite off more then we can chew, hopefully its no time soon."
i. his down time he looks for a Wla Trainer.. and a stop at thr catacombs.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 29 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:34; HP: 162/162 Character Sheet Thursday September 7th, 2017 9:24:36 PM
Barratore nods happily at the prospect of another couple large scale parties. Drinking, dancing singing, fires late at night and food. It did not get much better than that. The minotaur decides that it is he task to assure that V and Sheperd have fun. Too many sticks where no one can see them being carried with those two.
He waves off Edson's worries. "You don't look anything like V's mother, so stop your worrying."
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 33 (36 Raged); HP: 45/165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Thursday September 7th, 2017 10:48:01 PM
Brom's routine is much the same. During the day he spends his time wandering around Magpie Crossing. He stops by the bakery for sweet rolls for breakfast and has lunch at the Shadefly Tavern. He also stops at the Magpie Market and buys some sweet treats for the kids. Every evening he heads to the bath for a soak in the healing waters and then to the temple of Alemi to have his bandages changed and his wounds tended. Afterwards he stops by the tavern for a few drinks before heading home for the night.
Evaris (Kathy) Thursday September 7th, 2017 11:06:33 PM
Whenever he has a spare moment, Evaris makes a cursory search for Valdor the kitten. He also leaves bits of food outside likely-looking hiding places. He tries not to worry too much. Cats turn up. It's what they do.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+20 -- CMD 16 Thursday September 7th, 2017 11:53:08 PM
Until his share of the spoils arrives and he can shop at the Catacombs, Baslim will assist in trying to find the lost kitten.
DM Mark - The Weight of Glory Thursday September 7th, 2017 11:56:52 PM
The party’s willingness to engage the populace with their concerns and disputes varies. Brom and Baslim want to no part of it. Velarin simply refers them to Lord Hmitri. Barratore will help the townsfolk where he can with with his knowledge of the region and with engineering. Evaris will heal those that need it, and will also act as an arbiter of disputes. Evaris find that being an arbiter is fine, but it becomes clear that he will occasionally be asked to enforce his judgements as well. In one particular case, Evaris decided that one woman must give up a milk goat to her neighbor, but she refuses to do so. What does Evaris do about this?
Evaris even searches for kitten, but to no avail.
Brom pays his little followers, and finds they tend to come around the manor from time to time. If he ever needs errand run, he knows who to ask.
There is some discussion about what to do with the treasure, and what to do about rumors of a dragon. Emrys suggests returning to Glitterox to see if he can find more information.
Edson uses the time to train and visit the Catacombs.
Lanliss heads off to visit Dulcet in Witchspawn, which Emrys finds mildly offensive. The trip on foot (30 miles) will take a couple of days. He passes a number of people on the way, and they will say hello and occasionally greet him, asking who he is. He goes by the Pillar of Cnut. He pauses for a moment to read the inscription at the base that reads, “Let this Pillar here stand, in tribute to the glorious accomplishments of the Reknowned Cnut!" He travels through the town of Jarlswold as well. At last, he reaches the town of Witchspawn.
Witchspawn is … weird. You see lots of cauldrons. There is a great big one in the town square. They are used as decorations on some of the buildings. Folks walk around carrying them, some people here seem to be wearing cauldrons as hats, and there are even some cauldrons walking around by themselves. There are people walking around talking to either themselves or to some unseen companion. Lanliss asks for Dulcet. She is clearly well known. They point the rogue to a large building with some attached out buildings.
Knocking at the door, Lanliss is greeted by a small girl dressed all in green. She takes him to Dulcet, and brings gome tea and food. Dulcet greets Lanliss and says she plans to travel to Magpie Crossing soon, and expected to see him there. The old witch asks what she can do to help him?
The rest of the party in Magpie Crossing is being drawn into Solstice and Renewal Festivities. This is traditionally a gift giving time, given in reflection of the glitter that spews annually from Glitterox, though that happened a few days early this year. You hear rumors of expectation that the Keepers of the Vale might host a party.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. ritual: ward Friday September 8th, 2017 11:49:05 AM
"Daemon ... uhh, you didn't eat any kittens recently?"
"Of courssse NOT! I likesss Valdor!"
"Can you still smell him?"
"Yes, but not as strong as before."
"See if you can track the kitten's scent ... oh, and be polite and courteous with the others. Greet them with a pleasant tone; don't hiss at them ... some are still not comfortable with you."
Clearly irritated about the lingering prejudice towards snakes, the viper replies, "Sigh ...Yesss, I'll do my best. If Valdor isss here, I'll find him."
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. ritual: ward, windwalk d20+18=30 ; Friday September 8th, 2017 1:34:45 PM
Being satisfied with everything is going on at the house (Daemon looking for Valdor ... Angus looking after the coven and their duties), Emrys tells whoever remains at the house what his plans are ... and that he'll be back shortly.
After exiting the house, he takes a breath of the cold, crisp air and mutters a few words of power. He immediately turns into a gust of wind and speeds off through the air at the not-so-distant Glitterox (traveling at 60mph).
(Casting Wind Walk on himself. Duration: 14 hours.)
When he gets there, he will circle the mouth of the volcano at a safe distance, keeping his eyes open for anything unusual or anything shaped or marked by a possible dragon. (Perception: 30)
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. ritual: ward, windwalk d4+14=17 ; d20+24=38 ; Friday September 8th, 2017 2:35:47 PM
(Sorry I forgot to include this.)
I forgot to add this …
Once Emrys gets there, he lands at a safe spot near the mouth of Glitterox and casts Prying Eyes. He takes out a handful of glass marbles and they become 17 Flying Eye constructs. He tells them to look for anything resembling what he understands to be piece, a mark or impression, anything possibly left behind or made by a dragon. (Knowledge [Arcana]: 38). Once they receive their instructions, they scatter in all directions.
(Casting Prying Eyes. Duration 14 hours. Range: 1 mile. Each eye is a Fine construct, that has 1 hit point, AC 18 (+8 bonus for its size), flies at a speed of 30 feet with a +20 bonus on Fly skill checks and a +16 bonus on Stealth skill checks. It has a Perception +14 and is subject to illusions, darkness, fog, and any other factors that affect your ability to receive visual information about your surroundings. An eye traveling in darkness must find its way by touch.)
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Friday September 8th, 2017 5:14:15 PM
I have been thinking about what happened. Lanliss begins speaking. I had for for many years, looking for a way, Lately I have been taken out of my mind , my mind was controlled many times. As much as I now realize I seem rude to you Dear Duclet. I came here with a question. Lanliss asks the questions too fast as if in a frenzy. How do I stop my mind from being a tool for the evil sorcery and magic ? How did you or anyone else become a witch ? Lanliss continues in fast way of speaking but gradually slowing down, from every sentence he starts to slow down. I have learned in the Academy of Heroes, I tried endless days and night to play and learn magic, but never became more than a simple user of simple magic artifacts. It's seems that there are many ways for magic yet some do not posses the gift magic. After saying all that he wanted. He will let the witch speak then after maybe getting answers or not he will go back to Magpie Crossing unless Duclet gives him another option.
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Friday September 8th, 2017 5:23:33 PM
After.all is done Lanliss will ask Duclet two question in a slow way but in a more curious and serious.tone, one that hopefully seems wise
While.coming here I saw a low of cauldrons it is probably very important symbol or an idea for the people but why ?
Before stepping out from the room Duclet is in Lanliss will ask in a strange tone reminding an historical curiousity of a a person that forgot something important. I might have heard about him but forgot. Who was the great Cnut ? What did he do? To get such a beautiful but simple pillar ?
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Friday September 8th, 2017 7:39:00 PM
One evening, after strolling through town, V approaches the group. "Bad news gentlemen. it appears that we seem to be hopingly expected to host a party for the celebrations. Not all that surprising really, since we came home with plenty of valuables. Anyone who is not me. Because it's not me, up for supervising the hosting of said party, or at least making the arrangements, or putting someone else in charge of making arrangements? I suppose the easiest thing to do if no one wants to do it is ask Lord Hmitri to have his people plan it, and we will host and cover the cost. Additionally, this is apparently a gift giving celebration time, and we have already been given much by the people of this land. Any ideas on an appropriate gift for the Keeper's to give to the people?"
Evaris (Kathy) d20+26=31 ; Friday September 8th, 2017 7:41:18 PM
Evaris invites the woman to sit down and talk for a bit. "I listened to your situation," he reminds her. "And your neighbor's. Is there something you left out? Something you still need to tell me?"
If there's more to the case, Evaris listens. If not, he moves on: "Would giving up this goat be too much of a hardship for you and your family? Is that what you are concerned about?"
If that seems to be an issue, Evaris invites the woman to help come up with a solution that would work better for her. For example, maybe instead of giving her neighbor the goat, she could instead give her a gallon of milk each day for a period of time.
If the main issue seems to be "it isn't fair!" Evaris explains that sometimes Pantheon's justice feels unfair to us because we see our own needs so strongly and sometimes have trouble seeing somebody else's. "That's why you and your neighbor sought out a third party, if you remember." He'll tell of a time when he himself was on the receiving end of a judgement that didn't seem fair at the time, but upon reflection was the right thing "though it hurt my pride to admit it."
So, basically, he tries to talk her into accepting the situation, even if she still doesn't agree with it. [Diplomacy 31]
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 33 (36 Raged); HP: 45/165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Friday September 8th, 2017 8:39:32 PM
Brom agrees with V on asking Lord Hmitri to plan the party and the Keepers bankroll it.
As his wounds heal, part of Brom's day becomes stopping by the WLA to train. He also begins light workouts. He works out in the area behind the Domi temple along the river.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+20 -- CMD 16 Friday September 8th, 2017 9:37:38 PM
Baslim spends his day in contemplative prayer and ablutions. He is decidedly uncomfortable with his newfound celebrity status. Pride comes before a fall.
After half a day of purification, he walks about the town with his hood drawn and enjoys the weather.
DM Mark - The Weight of Glory Saturday September 9th, 2017 8:45:28 PM
Velarin says there is an expectation that the party will host a Solstice party, and he asks for ideas on who might host such a thing. He also asks what manner of gift the party might bestow on the local populace. Brom agrees with the idea of asking Lord Hmitri to organize their party.
Brom works out behind the temple to Domi. As usualy there is a changing, but generally consistent group of adolescent boys that seem to show up wherever he is. They tend to emulate his workouts. Brom - Sense Motive DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Their behavior suggests they are often jockeying for position to see who Brom pays more attention to.}.
Baslim is decidedly uncomfortable with the attention the locals pay to him. He goes for a walk with his hood up, but is quickly noticed and made to be uncomfortable again. They do seem to leave him alone while his in prayer and meditation.
Evaris approaches the woman unwilling to give up her goat as Evaris had decided. She listens and offers some other perspectives. The woman seems a bit shamed, but is still proud and stiff-necked. She agrees to give up the goat. Evaris - Sense Motive DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {This woman doing so under some feeling of duress, and is quite angry about it.}.
Emrys sets his viper to searching for the missing kitten. Then he leaves to take a closer look at Glitterox via a Wind Walk spell. One there, he casts Prying Eyes. He spends some time searching the area, with both he and his flying eyes looking about. He turn up an old, rusted dagger, a small glowing crystal, some small pockets of glitter, and handful of gems and bits of metal that were missed earlier (1,000 GP worth.) He also sees a few animals here and there, and a small band of goblins also scouring the area.
Over in Witchspawn, Lanliss speaks with Dulcet. He asks and she answers:
How do I stop my mind from being a tool for the evil sorcery and magic? Controlling and protecting one’s thoughts is a complicated thing child. Regarding your thoughts, guard them. Use care where you look, what you dwell on, consider what draws your attention or compels you. More introspective matters should be taken up with a cleric you respect. As for magical protections, there are things that will tell you when you stray from your basic tenants. Is this what you seek?
How did you or anyone else become a witch ? How did I become a witch. My family was poor and I was … apprenticed to a man who was a sorcerer - he was not kind, but I used by time to learn and gain power. I did not have his gift. But I found that the stronger my need, the stronger I reached out to the Wold, and one day the Wold answered. One day I just found that I could faintly see and sense the Woldsblood running through the Wold. I use this power to leave this man. That was difficult. But even more difficult was resisting the temptation to turn the the dark life he had chosen. In this way, I was able to turn toward the good and seek life. If you wish to become a Bloodwitch as I am, I can try to teach you what I know. Is that what you wish? You could study to be a wizard, but that’s a different sort of work. Those guys tend to be jerks about it too.
While coming here I saw a low of cauldrons it is probably very important symbol or an idea for the people but why ? Cauldrons are important items and symbols to bloodwitches, and there are a great deal of them here. We use them for our rituals and for other things. But, yeah, they kind overdid it in the town.
Who was the great Cnut ? What did he do? To get such a beautiful but simple pillar ? Oh that stupid thing. Beats me. Lemme know if you find out.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 29 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:34; HP: 162/162 Character Sheet Sunday September 10th, 2017 6:33:46 PM
Barratore agrees completely with V, "Great idea. You should goe set that up with lord Hmittri." He view linters a few hundred to the cause. As to the gift the rubs at his left horn, giving it some thought. "Something for the entire valley is at all order. We couldn't do something just for Magpie or some other town."
Barratore eventually settles on an idea at least, get in front of the council and use the party's resources to give a gift to each town. The Pitchfork council could help coming up with what that gift to each could be
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Sunday September 10th, 2017 8:56:37 PM
"Excellent. I will speak with Lord Hmitri and arrange to have them make arrangements."
"Yes Barratore! Brilliant idea. kind of ashamed that i didn't come up with it. Who would know better what the towns need than the pitchfork council. Although we should find out how many towns that entails. if too many, another alternative may be necessary. I'm sure the council has heard the needs and requests of the towns, and there are likely things that haven't been able to be taken care of as of yet."
"Oh Additionally. Here is the final cut of the treasure everyone. The cash, gems, metal, etc.. came to 364,000. Divided 8 ways comes to 45,500 per person. I have just completed the sale of the magic items, totaling 32,250. Divided by 8 is 4,031.25 for a grand total per person of 49,531.25 gp." (remember to update your sheets)
"I will be off to speak with Lord Hmitri, and have a runner sent with a message to the pitchfork council unless there are other ideas or objections once they have been heard by all. Following that I will be taking a personal trip back to the catacombs."
V then heads off to request to Lord Hmitri that he have his people plan the party, similar to the previous one, as we have much still to do. We will attend and host the party and cover the expenses. "Please make sure that the entire valley is invited."
V will hold off on anything doing with the council until his friends have expressed their ideas regarding the gifts, and will then take a trip to the catacombs for himself.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward, windwalk d20+17=27 ; Sunday September 10th, 2017 11:10:07 PM
Thinking to himself, he ponders all the things he found. All the items he gathered are interesting, but they aren't proof of a dragon being present. He will examine these items more closely when he returns to the manor house.
For now, he moves, with the help of Windwalk, to a side of the volcano's rim that is opposite from the goblins... they're hardly a threat to him, but what he has to do next requires some concentration and he doesn't wish to be disturbed.
When he is assured that he is alone, Emrys takes out his tiny travel cauldron and places several items into it to act as a focus for his next divination. A gem and piece of metal, a pinch of glitter, a random pebble from Glitterox inself; the glowing crystal he continues to hold in his hand. He begins to mutter words of necromantic power and Emrys immediately becomes much paler than he was before. He was expecting the cold sensation, but his body shudders from the results.
(Casting Surrender Blood. Sacrifices his own lifeforce to increase the caster level of his next spell. -15 hitpoints for +3 caster level.)
Emrys then begins another spell. This one doesn't require such dark words, but they are powerful nonetheless. Their strain immediately fatigues him. "Was there a dragon here the other night when the Glitterox erupted ... show me!"
(Casting Vision. Casting time: standard action. Caster Level check: 27. Using the location and the items he found to hopefully get better results. )
After receiving his answer, being heavily fatigued and in pain, he has no desire to fly all the way back to the manor house. Even the Wind Walking isn't fast enough. He simply gathers his things and utters the word of Recall.
(Casting Word of Recall. Immediately teleports back home.)
DM Mark - The Weight of Glory Monday September 11th, 2017 1:27:03 AM
Barratore supports Valarin’s idea to have Lord Hmitri host a party on their behalf, and is willing to contribute funds for this. He does think that any gift from teh heroes to the populace should be to all towns, and he suggests that the Pitchfork Council may have some ideas about this.
Velarin agrees. He wants the rest of the heroes to weigh in on the gift idea. He goes to visit Lord Hmitri, requesting that he have his people plan a party for them. He says the heroes will attend and cover the expenses, and that the entire valley should be invited.
Lord Hmitri is a bit puzzled. “I can certainly engage the necessary folks to organize a party on your behalf. When you say the entire valley should be invited, what do you mean? You cannot expect everyone in the Cinnamon Valley to drop what they are doing for days, and go to the trouble and expense to travel to see you. If you really want to see these people, you will need to go to them. But if you wish, I will extend the invitation.”
Emrys ignores the goblins, and moves to a place where he can cast a spell in peace. He casts Surrender Blood to increase his level, and then casts Vision. Though he holds some items he has found, his question about the dragon some folks believe the saw. The rumors do not seem sufficient to yield the information he seeks, and he gets nothing for his efforts apart from fatigue and perhaps a bit of disappointment. He is also 250 GP poorer for the incense the spell required.
He returns via Word of Recall.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Monday September 11th, 2017 7:51:56 AM
I guess invited was the wrong word Lord Hmitri. I'm unused to the delicacies of language in social situations. I simply was thinking that any in the valley who wished to come would be welcome, but by no means should anyone feel obligated to attend
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Monday September 11th, 2017 5:00:35 PM
Lanliss seems intrigued about what Duclet says. Anything that will help to ward off mind control even some effects of it will be desirable. I do wish to learn magic whether it's by your way or others. I am curious to know if there is something is must sacrifice or make on oath to ? Lanliss asks Duclet.
Evaris (Kathy) d20+23=41 ; Monday September 11th, 2017 10:12:47 PM
Evaris is well aware that the woman is still unhappy [Sense Motive 41], but he smiles and praises her for her generosity and sense of fairness.
He rejoins his companions to find them talking about celebrations. "Indeed," he says, backing up Velarin, "I think we just want to make it clear that all are welcome."
Regarding the gift, he says, "I'm not sure exactly what to get, but I think it should be something practical, yes? Something that people can really use. Of course, I have no idea what that might be."
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+20 -- CMD 16 Monday September 11th, 2017 10:47:25 PM
Baslim takes his share of the treasure and departs for the Catacombs. "I will be back shortly! I approve of plans for the party, and encourage you to continue preparations while I'm gone."
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward, windwalk d20+25=29 ; d20+25=30 ; d20+25=35 ; Monday September 11th, 2017 11:29:31 PM
Angus brings Emrys a hot cup of herbal tea. A special blend that helps warm the chilly touch of necromancy, not to mention the cold, winter air.
He sets it on the table next to Emrys as he examines the items he found at the Glitterox.
"The one thing I learned today, dear Angus ..."
"Yes?"
"You can't take the word of these locals at face value. Not that they lie ... I believe many of them are incapable of truly perceiving what they are a witness to. And yes, that's not always easy to do."
"Things ... not always ... what they seem."
A smile returns to Emrys' face, "You said a mouthful there, my friend."
"Yess, it would appear ... so." The tall, man's indifference momentarily cracks with a fragile smile as well. His yellowish, misshapen teeth become visible for just a second.
"Well then, let's see if these items hold any secrets." Emrys casts Detect Magic and concentrates to see if anything has a magical aura. If so, he will attempt to identify. (Spellcraft check: 29, 30, 35)
DM Mark - The Weight of Glory Tuesday September 12th, 2017 1:39:32 AM
Velarin can see that Lord Hmitri has misunderstood his desire to include others in the Cinnamon Valley outside of just Magpie Crossing. “Ah, well, I see. Sorry about that. Yes, I will send messages to the Pitchfork Council members to let them know there will be a celebration they may attend, and that they may bring some additional representatives from their community. They should be here in a few days to meet with you anyway. I will also just narrow down my list to those that should attend from Magpie Crossing.”
Evaris agrees and is glad to hear there is no expectation of everyone in the Cinnamon Valley being there. Regarding a gift, she’s not sure what would be appropriate either.
It is also important to note that Evaris’ stature in the community is growing as a wise judge who listens and makes reasonable, compassionate and just decisions. Sense Motive DC 15:Highlight to display spoiler: { Evaris will sense that Lord Hmitri seems a bit uncomfortable and jealous of the attention being paid to the heroes, and the Evaris in particular. He also is a bit ashamed of this.}.
Evaris says he’s off to the Catacombs, and everyone should carry on with the party planning.
Emrys has a conversation with the wise Angus. He takes a look at the items he found - an old, rusted dagger, a small glowing crystal, some small pockets of glitter, and handful of gems and bits of metal that were missed earlier (1,000 GP worth.) Only the glowing crystal has a faint magical aura - it is a glowing crystal, about the light of a candle.
Lanliss asks Dulcet about ways to shield his mind from control. He also asks about ways to learn to cast magic.
“Hmm, yes, ways to keep folks out of your head. Hmmm. (Dulcet will cover standard magic items and spells that guard against such control. The DM refers the player to the Magic Items and Spells portions of the Player’s Handbook, as well as information in the Woldipedia - too voluminous to list here.)
“So, you wish to become a practitioner of magic, eh? Well, I certainly advocate you becoming a Bloodwhich, as many of us are here in Witchspawn. But there are other, lesser means of exercising such power. And all have their costs. (Dulcet will cover standard and Woldian casting classes, both arcane and divine. The DM refers the player to the Player’s Handbook and and the Woldipedia - too voluminous to list here. If Lanliss wishes to add class levels in some spell caster class, we can work that out.)
Dulcet says she is travelling to Magpie Crossing to meet with the rest of Lanliss’ companions, He may wait and accompany her if he wishes,
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Tuesday September 12th, 2017 6:43:41 AM
edson heads off to the catacombs after a short delay. the planning of another party was something he'd leave to the more social members.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Tuesday September 12th, 2017 9:45:35 AM
V leaves the party planning in the hands of Lord Hmitri's people, making note to himself to make sure the group recognizes the Lords work publicly at the party. He also requests that since Lord Hmitri is sending word to the Council, perhaps he could include the groups request for assistance regarding an appropriate gift for the people of the valley. Perhaps Lord Hmitri himself would like to join them in the giving of this gift?
V then heads off to the catacombs
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward, windwalk Tuesday September 12th, 2017 10:17:27 AM
"How nice ... an ever-glowing night light. At least my trip wasn't completely in vain." he says half sarcastically. "You know ... if we could reproduce these, they'd replace the candle as a light source! Something worth investigating."
After a quick cure spell, Emrys puts on his fancy coat and black feather cloak. He loves this time of year ... gives him a chance to wear winter attire. "Well, I am off to the Catacombs ... would you like anything Angus? This gives Daemon to chance to slither up Emrys' leg and wrap himself around his torso, shoulders and arm. A telepathic voice says in Emrys' head, "I'm ready!"
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 29 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:34; HP: 162/162 Character Sheet Tuesday September 12th, 2017 11:06:37 AM
Barratore is a little disappointed in the news or lack there of about a possible dragon. he missed the underwater dragon turtle scuff, but Brom's report on that really made it seem like it was something that was more show than substance.
Lord Hmittri's response on the party confused him. He was under the impression that they, the Keepers of the Vale were being expected to host some large party. Misunderstanding something someone else says is not a new thing for him and it is quickly dismissed.
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 d20+10=25 ; Tuesday September 12th, 2017 3:35:53 PM
I will accompany you...if it is not a burden on you, Lanliss says with humble respect. If time permits, Lanliss will go around the area he saw the statue and ask around about it. Afterwards, Lanliss will help with simple tasks at the village if needed and will continue to rest. Local Knowledge 25
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 33 (36 Raged); HP: 45/165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Tuesday September 12th, 2017 4:20:07 PM
Brom continues his training in the same area of town. He also heads to the Catacombs to upgrade some of his equipment.
Like Barratore, he is also disappointed about the news of no dragon, but something big must have been out that way to bring such widespread rumors.
Evaris (Kathy) d20+26=28 ; Tuesday September 12th, 2017 10:20:55 PM
"Lord Hmitri,' Evaris says, "I think we could really benefit from your advice in this matter. What would be an appropriate gift from us to the Valley? Something that folks need? A windmill, perhaps? A well? A road? I would be most interested to hear your thoughts."
[Diplomacy 28]
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+20 -- CMD 16 Tuesday September 12th, 2017 11:59:45 PM
Baslim is still shopping.
DM Mark - The Weight of Glory Wednesday September 13th, 2017 12:50:22 AM
Most of the heroes head off to the Catacombs. One by one, they go into Maya's Treasures. The smell of cinnamon and and other spices fill the air, and you see some spiced pastries on the counter. The elderly Maya greats you all, expecting you would come through at some point. She takes you all to a large mirror which she swings to one side, providing an entrance to the Catacombs.
Evaris is glad to have a reason to break out his winter wear.
Most seem content to have Lord Hmitri take over organizing the heroes’ party for the Valley folk. They ask him what sort of gift might be appropriate, and Velarin suggests that perhaps Lord Hmitri could be involved in the giving of the gift. Evaris in also interested in Lord Hmitri’s thoughts, suggesting something like a windmill, as well or a road.
“Yes, well those are all good ideas, and the final decision is really be up to you all. But you know, what the people benefit from is hope, someone to inspire them and lead them. Something that would remind them of that hope seems appropriate, don’t you think? Since I am the designated leader of Magpie Crossing, perhaps you should commission a statue of their leader to place in the town square - that seems like a wonderful gift to the people.”
Emrys inspects the things he brought back from his recent visit to Glitterox. He considers the glowing stone for a moment and recalls that such were for sale in the pocket dimension of the Krystal Palace.
Brom and Barratore are both disappointed there is no further information about the dragon that many in the area seem to have seen.
Edson is leaving the house, when he opens the door to see a young girl standing there. She can be overheard by a number of the Keepers as well as she blurts out, “Scuse me sir! My name is Dilia, and I know who has your kitten. It’s Meena! She has it, and she’s keeping it at her house.” She smiles broadly and seems rather pleased with herself. ----------------------------------------- Over in Witchspawn, Lanliss in happy to travel back to Magpie Crossing with the Witch Dulcet. “Oh, the company will be nice Dearie. I was going to get there on my broom. It’s faster, but boy it sure makes your butt sore.” A day later, Lanliss is there when a small bird flies into her window, It delivers a message and then turns into a small feather that drifts to the ground. She reads the message. “Well, it seems you and your friends are throwing a shindig! I need to contact some of the locals. There may be quite a lot of us travelling to Magpie Crossing.”
Lanliss finds this to be a pretty weird group to travel with. They seem to throw magic around, sometimes for no reason as all. Everyone seems to have a theory on the Pillar of Cnut. Dulcet will tell him, “Don’t listen to them. Explanations of that pillar are like arseholes. Everybody’s got one, and they all stink.”
Then she asks Lanliss, “So, have you given anymore thought on becoming a magic practitioner?”
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Wednesday September 13th, 2017 9:02:03 AM
When Hmittri suggests a statue of himself, Barratore moves quickly out of the room. "Gotta take a leak." He knew staying more than a moment or two would be.a problem as it took all he had to not just start laughing at the idea of a statue of the man. Hmittri was fine and all, but an inspiration of hope to the people? Heroes are forged not bestowed. It did give him an idea though. Huh, that was like two in the course of the same number of days. That thought almost derails his first and he shakes it off so as not to forget.
At some point in the day, he tells the others. "I think we should start commissioning various artisans and the good people all around the vale to various public works and projects. Not just give them something, but put them to work. We could also bank roll grants easily, for say a new business venture like an inn along one of the longer roads, or waystation for livestock. On a seperate note, I'm not going to be in favor of a statue commissioned for Hmitri."
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Wednesday September 13th, 2017 11:42:34 AM
"Mina, you say?" Edson asks the young girl. he fishes out a silver and hands it to her. " Thsnk you...oh wait.. where does Mina live?"
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Wednesday September 13th, 2017 4:55:09 PM
I did, I am not sure I am ready... Lanliss says and pauses for a moment. I do recall one "special" student , Lanliss says with emphasis. They called.him the spell slinger, rumors were he had no magical talent, but had a magical artifacts. Ones that he had repeatedly used like wand but with never ending magic supply. I will have to speak with someone about it. After the party that's it.
Tell me Dulcet, , how the area has changed over the years ? I am curious to hear any interesting stories about your life or a major event in the Cinnamon Valleys.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Wednesday September 13th, 2017 7:37:55 PM
I agree Barratore. A statue of Hmitri will not be acceptable. I do think, however, that we should tread somewhat carefully. He was the biggest show in town until we got here, and it's not hard to imagine him beginning to resent us. Resentment sometimes leads to fear or hate, and they lead to the dark side of oneself. We really don't need anyone working against us in the background.
i do like your idea of commissioning the people to do public works, but we will likely have neither the time nor the expertise to oversee such a thing. Unless you wish to hire someone to oversee and arrange all that it would entail? trips to various villages, near and far, and speaking with the locals about what is needed and finding those who would be best served and capable to do the work. I think that idea might have merit. Aside from employing someone to help the valley in our stead, and report to us on what has been done and at what cost, Someone doing all the traveling throughout the valley could be a useful source of information regarding any rumors or happenings that might not otherwise reach our ears. Such a person would have to be honest, thoughtful, somewhat smart and somewhat charming. they will be spending our money after all.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 33 (36 Raged); HP: 45/165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d8=6 ; Wednesday September 13th, 2017 9:23:49 PM
"Yeah, I gotta go to." Brom says following Barratore's lead.
As far as public works, "We ain't got time fer that stuff. Of who we gonna have decide grants, what's a grant? I was thinking a tavern or inn between Jarlswolf and Magpie would be a good ta put some coins into, but I'd give money fer that. That's something I'd wanna be part owner of. A place ta hang my hat when I'm not swing my sword. Place with a good kitchen that serves good, stick ta yer bones food. Serves good ale an' got good company. I want that place." He says. "As far as others stuff, ya fund what ya want, but I just want the tavern. If I wanna help the people, I go there and help them with things they need. These are farmers, simple people. They aint' gonna care about some statue or some other thing. Helping them bring in their crops or diggin' a new well, or helping fixin' their homes. That's the things these people remember and are thankful for. I did that in Rum, I did it on the Float, I plan to do that here too. So you guys spend yer money how ya want, but I'll spend on a party and the other thing. That's it." He says.
Evaris (Kathy) Wednesday September 13th, 2017 11:21:04 PM
When Evaris returns from his conversation with Lord Hmitri, he finds that Roel's health has taken a turn for the worse.
"I think, my friend, it is time to take you to the Cathedral of Alemi in Plateau City, as we talked about, and see if there's anything to be done for you."
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+20 -- CMD 16 Wednesday September 13th, 2017 11:59:31 PM
Baslim returns, finished with shopping.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward, windwalk Thursday September 14th, 2017 12:21:43 AM
Emrys returns from the Catacombs in time to hear some of the conversation.
"I think Brom has the right idea, but I think it could be more than a simple tavern. Why not a Brewery?! One that can produce a vast amount and variety of spirits. It would employ many locals and support the farmers of the Vale. Just think of all the grains, herbs, fruits and spices grown here in the Vale ... It would bring prosperity to everyone. And Brom, just think of your consumption potential with a fully operational, large-scale brewery!!"
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Thursday September 14th, 2017 12:31:30 AM
Baslim shakes his head and clucks his tongue at the discussion of a statue. He mumbles something under his breath about pride and vanity. He perks up at the idea of commissioning members of the town. "May I make a suggestion? I would like to hold a contest for all of the children of the village. The contest will be for them to make the most beautiful artwork. Paintings. Paintings which will be made on the sides of our house! That way, the villagers will be reminded of their children and happy times whenever they look at our home. Every child would get a silver piece for doing their best work, and first place would get a gold piece and all the pastries they can carry!"
DM Mark - Cheers d100=66 ; Thursday September 14th, 2017 1:40:57 AM
The group continues to mull over options for a gift for the people of Cinnamon Valley. Nobody has any interest in Lord Hmitri’s proposal to make a statue of him, though Velarin wants to break it to the man easily. They withdraw to discuss.
Barratore suggests funding local citizens to work on public works and projects, and perhaps setting up a grant program. Velarin thinks this is a good idea, but says someone needs to oversee this effort. Baslim suggests a contest, to have all the children get together paint pictures on the keepers manor as a public art project.
Brom wants no part of all this. He has a dream of funding a tavern that serves good food and good beer where he can hang his hat, because sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name, and they're always glad you came. Emrys agrees, and suggest the tavern could be a craft brewery and spirits distillery.
As rumors of the Keepers hosting a party spreads, there excitement and talk of what to bring and what to wear. There are also indirect and direct questions about what sort of gifts the Keepers of the Vale might want?
How do you tell Lord Hmitri that there will be no statute?
Evaris, is very concerned with the health of the frail Roel. She says that she must take him to the Cathedral of Alemi in Plateau City for his own well being.
Lanliss tells Dulcet that he’s not quite ready to take up the magical arts. He has heard of spell slinger, and says he needs to investigate the further. The trip with all these odd people is interesting and entertaining, though it might suggest to Lanliss that being a practiocioner of the arcane arts just makes you weird. Soon, he will arrive with Dulcet in Magpie Crossing (next post, in fact!)
Edson asks the girl in the doorstep where this Meena is. “C’mon. I can take you to Meena’s house to get your kitten. I told her she was gonna be in trouble!” Does anyone else to with Edson?
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Thursday September 14th, 2017 9:33:43 AM
"would one of you with much more diplomatic skill than myself be so kind as to let Lord Hmitri down gently? I have no ability in that area, and would prefer not to cause a problem with some ill stated words."
After listening to all his friends voice their opinions regarding their thoughts on what to do for the valley, V thinks for a moment, and then simply says "It appears that we all have many different ideas as how to go about helping the people with our wealth and abilities. Perhaps we should each do our own thing in our own way. I do like the idea that Barratore came up with, with my adjustments to it. I would also be happy to invest in Emrys' brewery and Brom's bar, should you so desire. Both could be profitable and employ some of the people at the same time. Other than that, perhaps it would be best to hear first from the Pitchfork Council in case their is actually a need somewhere."
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Thursday September 14th, 2017 10:26:24 AM
edson waits a moment to see if anyone else wants to tag along. either way, he follows the girl to Mina's house.
" Is Mina your friend?" he asks, making small talk.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Thursday September 14th, 2017 11:13:06 AM
Barratore likes Brom's idea and Emrys's addition of moving up to a full scale brewery and inn. it would accomplish much of what he was thinking. V's suggestions and add ons to Barratores thoughts on the public works makes his head hurt. That seemed much much too complicated.
"Simple folk and farmers sure, but this ain't a single spot like Rum or the Float, this is several hundred square miles with a dozen or so villages. I'm not spending months going all over to bring in the crops, fixing hundreds of houses or digging a dozen wells all over. Places ain't far, but the are far enough. You could be finding yourself doing that full time."
Barratore will go with Edson as he mentions heading out. The rest of the conversations on the party and such could hammered out by the others. He was last person to tell Hmittri about the statue. Though he did not see the need to tell him. Group asked his opinion, the man gave it and the group is going in a different direction. A formal sit down to tell him he's not important enough for a statue seemed unnecessary,
"Let's go get yer cat Edson."
Evaris (Kathy) Thursday September 14th, 2017 12:21:26 PM
Evaris bids farewell to his friends.
"I wish you all the best of luck. I hope that Roel and I can return to Cinnamon Valley in time, and see all the progress you've made. But his health has to come first--I'm very worried about him."
Evaris casts Wind Walk, then he and Roel are gone.
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Thursday September 14th, 2017 5:06:45 PM
Lanliss enjoys the trip but feels a little of worry about his comrades. He thinks particularly about Brom and Barratore, wondering what they are up to now ? Probably some ale for sure Lanliss answers his own thoughts
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward, windwalk Thursday September 14th, 2017 5:25:16 PM
"How about we suggest that Lord Dmitri pose for a portrait painting. A fine picture of his smiling face as he brandishes a frothy pint of lager. It could be the ICON of the business; reproduced on a large sign that welcomes every customer ... I can see it now ... "LORD DMITRI MAGPIE LAGER."
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 33 (36 Raged); HP: 45/165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Thursday September 14th, 2017 10:29:06 PM
"Alright, ya do what'cha want. [b]" He says to Barratore.
"[b]Emrys, um...that sounds like a great place..." He says unenthusiastically.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward, windwalk Thursday September 14th, 2017 11:12:16 PM
Emrys smiles warmly, "I was joking, dear Brom ... not about a brewery, but about stroking the good Lord Dmitri's ego by making him a figurehead." He gives it a little more thought, "I would prefer to start a shop to sell potions and herbal remedies, but there is already a shop in town. I don't wish to drive the other out of business. Unless I could buy her out. My coven needs to be kept busy."
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Thursday September 14th, 2017 11:40:09 PM "Hmm..." Baslim strokes his beard in thought. "Economic development for the entire town. What about something that would benefit the entire region and bring new jobs? Perhaps a foundry? Or a new mine?"
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet d20+5=20 ; d20+5=16 ; Friday September 15th, 2017 12:48:02 PM
Barraoter wishes Evaris Imod's speed and says he will keep the good Roell in his petitions to Imod over the next few weeks.
Barratore is off to get the cat with Edson, from there it will be to the market for some good dried and smoked meat, some sharp cheese and a tankard of ale
As far the conversation on possibilities in the valley, Barratore is tapping out of it. He does spend the next few nights giving the Tavern/brewery some thought and starts to work up good locations and some designs in the dining room of the manor in the evenings. know local 20 know eng 16
DM Mark - Cheers Friday September 15th, 2017 1:50:52 PM
Discussion continues on a gift, and it seems to focus on a tavern. Emrys suggest that Lord Hmitri’s visage could decorate the front of the taverm. Brom thinks Emrys’ has lost his mind. Emrys quickly says he was just kidding, and wishes instead for a shop where he can sell potions. Baslim thinks bringing industry and jobs to the Cinnamon Valley is the way to go. Barratore’s head starts to hurt with all the discussion. Velarin still wants to hear from the Pichfork Council on the matter.
Evaris says she must take her leave to see to the health of her friend. Barratore says he will mention (Kathy has decided to move on from the Keepers game. She is still involved in the Wold though.)
Barratore and Edson head out with the small girl Dalia to see about getting Vador the kitten back. Dalia explains as she goes. “Meena is just stupid ‘cause she thought she could get away with stealing that kitten ‘cause she just wanted to impress Rylor, but Rylor’s not stupid like Meena an’ once you punish Meena then Rylor won’t want to talk to her on account of her being in trouble, an’ Rylor doesn’t even like her anyway.”
She leads you to a modest house, marches up to the door and knocks. A woman answers and says, “Well, hello Meena. Oh, and two of the keepers are here - we’re honored.” Dalia says smugly, “Wheeere’s Meeeena?” The woman calls for her daughter. Another small girl comes to the door, looks at the smiling Meena and then at Edson and Brom. She turns pale and swallows hard, looking at the heroes. The woman does not notice and says to the heroes, “How can I help you? Would you like to come in?”
Lanliss worries about his friends while he is travelling. He soon arrives with Dulcet and the group of strange folk from Witchspawn.
Indeed activity has increased in Magpie Crossing. There is a good deal of preparation of festivities, with folk arriving from all over - more are expected over the next several days. Folks are being squeezed into houses and barns as the inn in town is full. The Keepers have provided funding to Lord Hmitri (How much? About 2,000 GP will make for a very nice all-day party, which is a gift in an of itself. A much more modest event could be had for fewer folks and a few hundred GP.)
The members of the Pitchfork Council are all expected to be there tomorrow, and Lord Hmitri has arranged a meeting with them.
(I know the timing of everyone got a little wonky, but I am trying to keep things moving forward.)
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward, windwalk Friday September 15th, 2017 4:23:50 PM
Emrys (and Daemon) heads over to meet with Lord Hmitri, Angus comes along carrying a small chest containing 2,000g of their own money. The heavy chest would be too much of a burden for the weakling, Emrys.
He presents the money with warm smile, one Lord to another. "Nothing is too good for these dear, fine folks ... let's make sure this is a very wonderful, all-day extravaganza ... a holiday like no other! A first of many signs of great and prosperous times to come!"
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Friday September 15th, 2017 11:36:09 PM
Brom takes his armor to the smithy to have some of the dents and dings hammered out.
"Here ya go." He says to the smith. "It's gotta few dents. 'Preciate if you could get'em out fer me. How long?" He says to the smith.
The rest of Brom's time is spent resting and wandering around the town. He pretty much continues his usual routine with a little workout thrown in now and then. He is never seen in his armor while wandering and only carries his kukri in sheath on his belt.
One thing of note, he does keep an eye on the attractive ladies in Magpie, he is only 18 or 19 after all, and makes it a point to say hello to them as he passes. He'll even stop for a small conversation to ask them how they are always trying to remember little things about each.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Saturday September 16th, 2017 12:11:34 AM
Edson puts his hand up to stop Barratore from pullong out his weapon and going on the offensive.
" Meena was watching our kitten while we were oit saving the world. Just coming to collect and thank her. isn't that right Meena?"
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Saturday September 16th, 2017 10:35:21 AM
V concurs with Emrys and gives him 400 gold to cover the Wizards share for the party. "There are seven of us, so about 400 per person should cover the tab."
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Saturday September 16th, 2017 2:59:44 PM
Barratore glances at his chest where Edson quickly put his hand and smirks a bit. He gives a slight nod to the woman, "Barratore Steelwind, a pleasure to meet you." He says as an introduction. He grins a Minotaur toothy grin to the girl and otherwise stays quiet. Edson's opening seemed just fine and there was nothing much more to add. It was just a cat after all. Barratore is not keen on entering the house. He found most human abodes crowded with stuff they prefer not to have destroyed and so 9 feet and nearly 2000 pounds of him should probably just stay outside
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Saturday September 16th, 2017 4:47:23 PM
Brom gives Emrys 300 gold and says. "Three hundred for each of us. Hmitri's estimate is two thousand, right. That should give us an extra hundred for extra food and drink." He gives a jab to V. "New math, eh?"
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Saturday September 16th, 2017 7:24:22 PM
"Hmmm. It appears I did miscalculate the expense. Wonderful. Corrected by a barbarian, that's all i need. I wonder if this new headband is cursed somehow. Possibly created by a wizard with a horrid sense of humor.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Sunday September 17th, 2017 11:52:11 PM
Baslim is happy to contribute 300 gold pieces. "Here you go! Let's make this a party to remember."
DM Mark - Pitchfork Monday September 18th, 2017 12:07:21 AM
Emrys takes the initiative, loads up a chest with 2,000 GP for the party, and has Angus carry it. Lord Hmitri is impressed, but all business. He has Angus place it in his house and starts peppering poor Emrys with many questions regarding food, ale,ale, wine, seating, beer, serving, ale, timing, beer, speeches, etc.
Brom heads over to the Blackhammer Smithy. He steps in to see the minotaur Palonia hard at work. She glances up at Brom. “Ah’ll be with you in a moment.” She sets her work aside, rather careful how she places the work and her tools. “Well, Mr. Brom. How can I be of service today?” Brom teller her about his armor, and she says she can work on it that evening. An adolescent minotaur rushes in, stops and stares at Brom with some wonder. “Do ... do you know the mighty Barratore?” he asks.
Meanwhile, over at Meena’s house…. Edson stays Barratore’s hand, though the minotaur had no intent of drawing his weapon.. He does shoot a toothy grin at the pale Meena, and to his surprise she becomes even more pale. Edson give the girl an excuse, and her mother say, “So that’s where that cat came from. Well, now I know why you were keeping such a careful eye on it. Well Meena - don’t just stand there, go get their cat.” By contrast to Meena’s pale color, Dalia is turning red. One look at the minotaur, and her mouth becomes a flat line and she stomps off. While Meena fetches the cat, her mother says, “Oh, she fussed over that cat so much, never let it leave the house.” The girl is back with Valdor the Kitten and it is returned to Edson.
Velarin offers his share, and Brom corrects his math. Velarin eyes the barbarian, and blames it on his new headband. Baslim too offers his share.
(I’ll let you guys work out how you want to deal with/reconcile payment.)
The next day, the members of the PItchfork Council have arrived. Though they have travelled far, they are anxious to meet with the heroes. Each ntroduces themselves. “I am Lord Hmitri, and I represent the Hamanas of Cinnamon Valley. I am known to you, so I will let the others introduce themselves.” He is a well dressed human. An old human woman steps forward. She looks frail, but you know appearances can be deceiving. “I and Dulcet, and I too am known to you. I represent the witches in the Cinnamon Valley. I had the pleasure of being escorted here by Lanliss of your group, so I know what occurred from his perspective. I look forward to hearing more. But wait, there is one of you missing” A plainly dressed half-elf is next. “I am Thelonius Bedstraw of the Hill People. You may have heard of my aid Lothar, but he was not able to be here today.”
Finally, a plump, grandmotherly halfling speaks. “I am Simmay Swanfeathers. I represent both Druids and the Village of Merrydale. I have something of your heard of your accomplishments I look forward to hearing more.” All are seated at a large round table. Lord Hmitri says, please tell of the assmbled what happened and how you came to be flying out of the volcano Glitterox.”
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+1=7 ; d20+1=20 ; Monday September 18th, 2017 11:47:13 AM
"Thanks." He says to Palonia. He looks at the young minotaur. "I do know Barratore." He says purposefully leaving out the mighty. "Would you like to hear a tale of the glory and valor of Barratore?" He ask knowing full well the boy would.
Brom begins to tell a story of the battle with the Shadow Lord, but it doesn't seem to sound right since he didn't see much of Barratore's fight. "Hold on," He says looking off in an attempt to come up with a better story. "Ok, I think I have a better one." And he begins to tell the story of fight he and Barratore had with the hellhounds so long ago when they were still green. Telling the child of the heroic battle with fierce enemies of the minotaurs. All the while trying to make Barratore's battle prowess larger than life in the boys mind and also not minimizing his own skills.
At the pitchfork council, Brom is polite, but leaves the talking to the talkers. If asked specific questions he will answer as straightforward as he can, very directly.
Performance DC 7 for the Shadow Lord battle and DC20 for the hellhound battle.
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 d20=4 ; Monday September 18th, 2017 4:31:16 PM
Lanliss tries to describe what he think he heard While the fight commenced (referring to Brom description)
AID another 4
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Monday September 18th, 2017 7:29:34 PM
V holds back at the request of the telling of the tale of the battle, planning on someone with some skill at words and diplomacy taking the lead.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Monday September 18th, 2017 8:08:56 PM
ooc: Brom was telling the story to the minotaur boy not the council.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Monday September 18th, 2017 9:04:34 PM
Barratore looks after the girl as she storms off, odd reaction. He then pays it no heed. He thanks Meena for taking such good care of Valdor and then thanks the mother and leaves.
Barratore attends the council meeting in full armor and weapons. His Champion WLA pendant clearly visible on a chain about his neck. Having told the story once and seeing no one else wanting to talk, Barratore steps forth and tells the tale of the the path cut into the land of shadow by the good Dulcet and her coven. The group then fought past the shadow land guardians and found themselves on what V and Emrys described an an alternate plane. The group met with natives of this land and learned of a common danger that they and the good Wold faced, a Shadow Lord. The Keepers of the Vale met this monster in a great chamber and did battle. Barratore is bad with names though and looks to one of the others to recall the names they heard just before entering the cavern. Barratore concludes with as the Shadow Lord fell to the Keepers, The Shadow Glitterox erupted and hurled the Keepers home
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Monday September 18th, 2017 11:07:31 PM
Edson sits back quietly and lets Barratore tell the story. every once in a while he'll catch someone's attention and motion to Barratore, or add a " wait for this"... helping build up Barratores story.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Monday September 18th, 2017 11:44:04 PM
Baslim looks at Emrys. "Master Bard? Any embellishments on Barratore's retelling?"
DM Mark - Pitchfork Tuesday September 19th, 2017 12:21:19 AM
Barratore watches the unpleasant Dalia stomp off in anger. He thanks Meena for taking care of their cat. Then he and Edson take the cat back home.
Brom indulges the adolescent minotaur in tales about Barratore, and he drops off his armor with the boy’s mother.
The next day the Keepers head over to Strong Wind Castle, the residence of Lord Hmitri, to their meeting with the Pitchfork Council. Barratore makes sure to wear his full combat gear and prominently display his WLA badge. He notices that Lord Hmitri has one as well.
Sense Motive DC 25:Highlight to display spoiler: {You sense a mixture of fear and admiration from these powerful folk, towards both the figure that Barratore presents in this room, and toward the growing power of all the keepers.}
Barratore launches into their tale from reaching the Shadow Lands to their return to the Cinnamon Valley. Lanliss adds to the tale, as do some of the others as it is told. The members of the Pitchfork Council ask a number of questions.
Thelonius Bedstraw and Simmay Swanfeathers have the most questions.
Thelonius asks, “What threat did this Shadow Lord pose to the Cinnamon Valley? What of the dragon? A few of my people say a dragon in sky, though I must confess I did not see this. What do you know of the dragon?” Indeed, none of the four council members actually saw a dragon.
Simmay asks, “What of the large, grey stones that seem to evaporate in the light? There were reports of such down in Merrydale. Do you know what they were?”
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward, windwalk Tuesday September 19th, 2017 12:58:18 PM
Emrys does his best to answer Lord Hmitri's questions. He makes the best decisions he thinks are best and takes suggestions from the organizers and Lord Hmitri himself. He won't commit any of the other Keepers to any specific speaking engagements or presentations until he has had the chance to discuss it with them.
"Please give me a list or number of speeches you'd like to have. I will discuss these engagements with the rest of my fellowship and return to you with an answer promptly."
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward, windwalk Tuesday September 19th, 2017 1:56:10 PM
(My above post was meant for the first half of Monday's post.)
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Tuesday September 19th, 2017 4:20:30 PM
Lanliss looks at his fellows comrades. Maybe one of them either found answers or know the answers for the questions that were just asked.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+23=43 ; Tuesday September 19th, 2017 4:21:58 PM
For the meeting with the council, Brom wears his nice civilian clothes. He does carry his WLA badge, but keeps it hung under his shirt. The short sleeve shirt is made to so that part of the barbarian's massive bicep and forearm can be seen. He also wears a nice pair of pants, very fancy by the adventurer's standards but not so by the standards of the council, and a nice pair of leather boots. He only carries a kukri in a sheath on his waist.
At the meeting, Brom listens to Barratore tell the story of their fight and expulsion within Glitterrox. He has nothing to add to the story. Brom notices Lord Hmitri's badge as well and is interested in what rank he holds within the WLA.
On the question of:
1. The dragon he has no response. Emrys had went to search for it; so, he should inform the council of his findings.
2. The shadow lord poses no more threat, but Brom believes that he is not dead and maybe still around, but with no proof, he keeps his thoughts to himself.
3. The grey stone was shadowstuff and cannot exist in the light, att least that's Brom's guess. Again, he keeps these thoughts to himself and defers to the members most knowledgeable on the topic (the ones with actual planar knowledge).
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) d20+23=36 ; d20+18=28 ; Tuesday September 19th, 2017 7:29:56 PM
yes Dulcet, our friend Evaris had to take his leave for an unknown duration, possibly permanently. He was required to tend to the failing health of another. We will miss him, but we will continue our work in the valley.
V responds to the mention of the shadow lord after Brom. "Indeed the shadow lord may or may not be dead. But the real heart of the matter is that when we entered the tunnel leading to him we overheard part of a conversation that he was having with another. He was merely a tool or puppet of another being. In fact, he said that after he had killed us, he would need to be addressed properly before the shadow army set foot in the valley. This is troublesome news, as there is a very powerful being somewhere in the multiverse with designs on this valley, powerful enough to empower this shadow lord and give him control of an army. It is possible that this being is choosing his replacement as we speak. How or if we can find more information regarding this would likely be a matter for the clerics. It may be possible for me to plane shift us back to the pocket dimension to speak with those people once again, but I am unsure if that is possible or will yield results."
V then uses knowledge of the arcane(36) and the planes(28) to see if he can give the council an answer regarding the dissipating globs.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Tuesday September 19th, 2017 10:14:34 PM
Barratore calls it Emrys to report his findings on the rumor of the sighted dragon. "Brave Emrys went to Glitterox to personally look into reports of a dragon sighting. Emyrs, what did you uncover?"
After Emrys speaks as well as any others, Barratore will venture aloud that the grey matter was what was left of the shadow creatures the group destroyed and was expelled by Glitterox along with themselves. Here in this world and in the light of day, the substance simply melted away like snow.
It has been answered but Barratore will say it again, that th shadow lord, with the help of another was to invade the valley with a shadow army.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward, windwalk Tuesday September 19th, 2017 11:38:39 PM
Emrys gives answers to the questions about the dragon.
"I did attempt to find evidence of a dragon around Glitterox. I used several powerful divinations, scrutinized every inch for miles around the Glitterox and no proof of a dragon was found. I did find more precious gems and metals, like the kind that rained down the night of the eruption. I found more pockets of glitter, an old rusty dagger and a faintly glowing crystal ... very similar to crystals I first witnessed in our travels across the planes. Evidently many things from that realm returned with us through the Glitterox. It merely gives off the light of a candle ... a common light source from that pocket realm."
Emrys pauses to recall more information from that day, "the only creatures I found were fauna indigenous to the region and a small band of goblins. They didn't appear to be conducting any hostile activity and they kept their distance. So I decided to continue on with my divinations. The power of my divining made me quite fatigued, so I called off my search and returned home. I apologize for failing to corroborate the rumors."
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Tuesday September 19th, 2017 11:48:53 PM
Baslim nods. "I do not know any more than my companions, I'm afraid."
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward Tuesday September 19th, 2017 11:49:40 PM
Emrys turns to Velarin and says, "Perhaps that glowing crystal could be used as a focus to find our way back to that realm."
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Wednesday September 20th, 2017 12:05:35 AM
Edson flips a coin across his knuckles, awaiting the end of the meeting. It seemed to go in cycles... advenure, party, meeting, rest... the first two and the last were ok, but these meetings always bored him. He could already see were this one was headed, and figured it would be easier for the comittee to just come forward and ask them for their next favor. It would save every a ton of time.
DM Mark - Same Old Thing ... adventure, party, meeting, rest ... Wednesday September 20th, 2017 12:26:59 AM
In the meeting with the Pitchfork Council, Brom dresses in business casual - for a barbarian. Amidst all the talk, you note the Council is thankful for the Keepers efforts.
They have a few questions for the Keepers.
Velarin explains the absence of the good Evaris. The elf agrees with Brom that the Shadow Lord may or may not be dead. But even more concerning, he says, “"Indeed the shadow lord may or may not be dead. But the real heart of the matter is that when we entered the tunnel leading to him we overheard part of a conversation that he was having with another. He was merely a tool or puppet of another being. In fact, he said that after he had killed us, he would need to be addressed properly before the shadow army set foot in the valley. This is troublesome news, as there is a very powerful being somewhere in the multiverse with designs on this valley, powerful enough to empower this shadow lord and give him control of an army. It is possible that this being is choosing his replacement as we speak. How or if we can find more information regarding this would likely be a matter for the clerics. It may be possible for me to plane shift us back to the pocket dimension to speak with those people once again, but I am unsure if that is possible or will yield results."
(From the August 4 DM post: Behind the Shadow Lord you see a small, shadowy portal. Before your approach is noticed, and the portal winks out of existence, you get a glimpse of the hideously scarred visage of a human man in his late middle years. The man's face and hands are marked from some affliction,and he is mostly bald with only strands of long gray hair scattered about his head. Behind the man the head of a huge red dragon can be seen, eyes like glowing coals and smoke rising from its mouth.)
From his experience, Velarin believes that the shadowstuff likely has its origins in the Plane of Shadow. He is not sure what it is, but surmises that it could be used in conjunction with certain transmutation spells.
Barratore ask Emrys to share what he may have learned about the dragon on the slopes of Glitterox. Barratore says that the grey shadowstuff was only the remains of the shadow creatures destroyed during the eruption that expelled the heroes as well.
Simmay responds, “We, that strange grey stone-like material was flying out in chunks for hours, maybe a day, before Glitterox finally erupted. But there’s now way you could have known what was happening here dear, since you were in that other place fighting for our valley.
Emrys relates that he was not able to find any information about a dragon through his divinations. He suggest to Velarin that the crystal may lead them back to that other dimension.
Baslim says he has nothing to add.
Edson grows impatient and bored with all the talk, wishing these powers that be would just get to the point and ask the heroes to once again solve their next problem.
When they ask about the Shadow Stones, one of Lord Hmitri’s attendants leans over and whispers to him. Lord Hmitri becomes a bit angry, “So Hmark, you didn’t think that might have been important before? Go and fetch it immediately!” The man rushes out.
“Well, it seems that Brother Daevon found a block of the stuff, and has kept it hidden from the light. I’ve asked that he bring it here, but seeing it will be difficult if it disappears in the light.”
Knowledge Local DC 10:Highlight to display spoiler: {Brother Daevon is an older half-orc, and a low level cleric of Alemi. He takes care of Alemi's shrine.} Baslim may read this without a roll.
Knowledge Local DC 20:Highlight to display spoiler: {Brother Daevon speaks well, but not a lot of wisdom. He does have a high opinion of Lord Hmitri.}
A few minutes later, a half-orc in white robes enters the room, carrying a small chest. He wears a holy symbol to Alemi. He nods respectfully to Baslim. He addresses Lord Hmitri, “My lord, as requested I have brought the block you seek. I had heard that it evaporates in the light, so I have kept this one in darkness. I have examined it, but there is little I have been able to discern about this, other than it is hard like stone, but weighs little.”
Lord Hmitri gestures to the Keepers, and then to the chest that now sits on a side table.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Wednesday September 20th, 2017 11:10:07 AM
V responds first to Emrys. "It may very well be a focus, and if so, that would be good. I am hoping that my ability to disregard most material spell components will also suffice for a focus, but if not, let's make sure we hang onto that crystal and research the matter."
Responding to the rest. "ah yes. talk of the dragon has jogged my memory. As we approached him, a small dimensional portal was seen, and behind it was the hideously scarred visage of a human man in his late middle years. The man's face and hands are marked from some affliction,and he is mostly bald with only strands of long gray hair scattered about his head. Behind the man the head of a huge red dragon can be seen, eyes like glowing coals and smoke rising from its mouth. But the portal quickly winked out of existence. Obviously a dragon is involved somehow. Whether or not it is in this realm remains to be seen. Perhaps a powerful divination from our religious associates could find the truth of the matter."
Brother Daevon please do not open that chest. You did excellently in preserving that without letting it dissipate. Something none of us thought to do. My thanks brother. I believe the safest course of action to prevent it from disappearing would be to have a good look at it in the complete absence of light. Moonlight or starlight might possibly even minorly effect it. I would propose opening the chest at night in a dark, enclosed room. I have the spell true seeing which allows me to see all things as they truly are with no limitation to vision or need of light. i believe I am not the only one that has that spell, and it may be in our best interests to have several of us look at it together and discuss. I would think that any with the capability to see in complete darkness who wish to be present may do so.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+3=20 ; d20=16 ; Wednesday September 20th, 2017 2:26:08 PM
Brom recognizes Brother Daevon, having had several conversations with him while having his wounds attended at the temple (DC 20).
The dragon talk is interesting, but Brom doesn't know anything about the guy next to him.
Other than that, Brom stands/sits and waits for the meeting to be over.
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 d20+10=13 ; Wednesday September 20th, 2017 4:22:37 PM
Brother Daevon, Lanliss speaks. Thank you for keeping thing, it might prove useful, Lanliss then makes a gesture towards Baslim and says respectfully, Our dear Baslim also walks the path of light with the blessings of Alemi. Lanliss expects Baslim to check the block/thing. Local Knowledge 13
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Wednesday September 20th, 2017 10:51:30 PM
Barratore listens and nods as V talks and does his best to appear engaged during the meeting. Barratore thanks the brother upon returning. He agrees with V, open it later in darkness Barratore retrieves the chest and will hold onto it
At this point, his story told and things moving to planning or trying to discover what to do next, he had little if nothing to add and so he stays in the background. As well as a fully battle clad Minotaur can at least
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward d20+26=41 ; Wednesday September 20th, 2017 11:16:45 PM
(Knowledge [Local]: 41)
Emrys recognizes the good cleric and recalls who and what he is ... and pretty much everyone else in the room as well. He listens on to what everyone else is saying, but something isn't sitting well with him. This is the second time his friends have called him a bard ... something that he has never been ... or maybe not.
He thinks to himself, 'how did I cast that feather falling spell ... a spell I no longer know? I have fleeting thoughts and memories of playing a lute ... but these memories are only dreams. I can't carry a tune, dance or play an instrument ... I can't even whistle!' Yet these flights of fancy persist ... even among my friends; they reference these alternative threads of reality. It's not inconceivable, with becoming legendary in repute, that our burgeoning perceptions have grown to some mystical level. Like the good cleric, Brother Daevon, I shouldn't know so much about him or the rest of these people ... but I do!
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Wednesday September 20th, 2017 11:53:48 PM
Baslim nods to Brother Daevon. He rubs his chin in thought. "It vanishes in the light... Hard like stone... Heavy as sponge... Hmm... Perhaps one of our party can see in the dark and can examine it in greater detail? My eyes see only light. If no one can, I would suggest we cast divinations and offer prayers to seek guidance so we do not spoil this sample."
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Thursday September 21st, 2017 12:19:55 AM
Still not asking what they want to ask... Edson thought to himself. He knew deep down they already had another mission for him, but for some reason wanted to beat around the bush.
When the chest comes in, Edson stands up and moves closer... but doesn't open it. He awaits one of the others to do the deed.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward Thursday September 21st, 2017 1:09:01 AM
Agreeing with Baslim, Emrys offers his services, "I could attempt a greater scrying to observe and examine the object from within the chest ... no risk of exposing it to light. I only need my cauldron."
DM Mark - Same Old Thing ... adventure, party, meeting, rest ... Thursday September 21st, 2017 1:18:12 AM
Attention focuses on the chest brought in by Brother Daevon, and the Keepers are appreciative and thoughtful in their response to him. He is happy to give this thing to you, and is glad that Alemi bought it to him for safe keeping until you needed it. Barratore takes control of the chest. (I will let you explore that at your leisure - just tell me what you do with it, if anything.)
Soon the planned for party occurs. The members of the Pitchfork Council are there. There is always demand for the story of your journey through the Shadlow Lands, the dimension of the Krystal Palace, and your explosive return to the Cinnamon Valley.
As this is a gift giving time, there are many gifts given to the Keepers. Of note, each of you received a matched, very finely crafted dagger from the minotaur Palonia. Lord Hmitri gives each of you a gold “key to the city.” While the key does not actually fit anything, showing it does cause local officials to let you pass anywhere you wish. There are quite a number of other items - wooden carvings of local animals, fine hats, walking sticks, and a good deal of food stuffs. There are also gifts of ale and local spirits. Lord Hmitri, at one point asks, “So, have you given any more thought to that statue?”
Actually there are a number of celebrations, and the Keepers are usually eagerly invited, sometimes out of gratitude, sometimes because of the status it will lend to their event, often both.
Emrys will notice that replicas of his black walking stick have become very fashionable and popular. There is also an uptick in local veneration of Alemi and adherence to his precepts.
Once the parties subside, life in Magpie Crossing settles into some normalcy. People go about their daily work. The Keepers continue to be important figures, occasionally called upon for advice or help. Life is good.
Two weeks go by.
Key questions: - The Keepers had discussed a Renewal gift. Do you let the matter drop? - What is done with the shadow stone? - Do you spend time on anything significant during this two week period?
(Your DMs would like to wrap up this phase so we can move to the next. We get the impression some of the players would like that too, but we don’t want to cut anyone short.)
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) d20+23=41 ; d20+23=35 ; d20+18=30 ; d20+18=21 ; Thursday September 21st, 2017 9:58:38 AM
(ooc: i believe we have decided to let the matter of the renewal gift drop for now, with characters doing their own thing in the future. See post for rest)
V does his best to speak with as many people as possible, and stop by as many celebrations as he is able, at least for a short bit. He thanks everyone profusely for all the gifts given. He does his best to let Lord Hmitri down gently regarding the statue, stating that the group is still pondering their options, but for now is going to look at something that will provide employment and or a service to valley.
V will investigate the stone, as previously mentioned, in a dark room at night using true sight, and with at least several keepers present should something occur(spellcraft 41, arcane 35, planes 30, history 21)
Beyond that, V spends the rest of his time relaxing, and reading his books
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Thursday September 21st, 2017 3:57:38 PM
Lanliss will spend his time asking Valerin and other magic casters about their way of casting magic. He will also visit the catacombs as there are some stuff that needed to be bought. Lanliss will ask Valerin if he has a basic book with magic spells that is good for beginners. With the excuse for it being curiosity.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+23=32 ; Thursday September 21st, 2017 7:54:18 PM
Brom thanks all of the people for their gift. With the alcohol, he insists that those that gave him the drink share with him. He tells them "A good drink is always better when it's shared with friends."
Brom attends many of the celebration, as many as he can. During the celebration time, it is not uncommon to see him wandering from party to party. It is not hard to notice that he is inebriated, but always up for a good party, Brom trudges on.
The gift of the blade is immediately placed in his belt and can be seen with him in place of the kukri that Brom normally carries while in his civilian clothes.
During the two weeks:
After his armor is repaired and having found no lasting interest from any of the ladies of Magpie Crossing. Brom decides on a little trip. He is going to head to Merrydale for a day or two, then over to Witchspawn and spend two days there before heading to Jarlswolf and then back to Magpie Crossing. All in all, he plans to spend a week and a half or two away from the Crossing. On his way back he plans to spend a day in Frog Hollow. He wants to find out more about the dragon rumored to have been spotted by one of the locals.
Perception DC 32
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Thursday September 21st, 2017 10:33:38 PM
Barratore will be at as many of the celebrations as he can and he will accessorize with as many of the gifts as he can, especially the dagger. The proud taur fighter will always be in battle dress out of respect to those he visits with. Like Brom, gifts and food and drink are shared as the are meant to be.
Barratore leaves the chest with V after the meeting. While he is curious, he knows there will be nothing he can offer when it comes to examining the contents. Instead, he also plots out a course through the settlements of the Vale. He purposefully picks a different course then Brom. Time to see the place he now calls home, mono y mono. Barratore heads to Jarlswolf, then cuts down to Merrydale, out to Witchspawn, back to Jarlswolf and home.
He brings parchment and a small folding table to take down some notes each night on good locations along the road and to continue to rough out what the Tavern Brewery might look like. He will try to engage any he meets in light conversation about their views on life in the Vale. These he adds to his knowledge of the locals and his notes Taking 10 on knowledge checks Local and Engineering both 15 Taking 10 on Survival 16 to make those nights in the woods as pleasant as possible
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward d20+25=27 ; d20+26=36 ; Thursday September 21st, 2017 10:52:18 PM
Emrys thanks the minotaur for the finely crafted dagger, "I have never owned a finer blade!" He also thanks Lord Hmitri for the Key to the City. He show his appreciation and gratitude for all the gifts bestowed upon them.
Emrys absolutely adores the wood carvings of animals, "My mother was a very gifted woodworker. They say her carvings were so lifelike, you'd mistake them for the real thing.They almost seemed to breathe and even their eyes would follow you around the room ... or so I thought."
Looking at his own hands, that have an uncanny wood grain-like appearance, yet still soft and fleshy, he continues on to say, "Sadly I did not inherit her talents ... well, not all of them anyway."
Later that evening...
If Valarin wants to go ahead and open the chest in total darkness, he would certainly want to be a part of this examination. He too will cast True Seeing, so that his eyes are no longer shrouded by the dark. He will remove any item he is carrying or wearing that sheds the slightest glow. Emrys will also scrutinize the object. He will cast Detect Magic and determine what kind of magic, if any, radiates from the object. (Knowledge [Arcana]: 27, drat! Spellcraft: 36. Knowledge [Planes]:
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward d20+22=38 ; d20+24=40 ; d20+26=40 ; Thursday September 21st, 2017 10:56:24 PM
(Had a 'senior moment,' I mistakenly hit the submit button before finishing my post, sigh!)
(Here are the rest of my rolls: Knowledge [Planes]: 38. Knowledge [Nature]: 40. Knowledge [Dungeoneering]: 40.)
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Thursday September 21st, 2017 11:56:28 PM
Shepherd Baslim is thrilled to see a surge in the worship of Alemi. The Valley walks closer to the Light! He does not have any preparation to make, and has few ideas about a renewal gift.
Rather than a statue of the good mayor, Baslim suggests a bronze plaque. Perhaps a wall of honor for all future mayors?
DM Mark - Same Old Thing ... adventure, party, meeting, rest ... Friday September 22nd, 2017 12:56:51 AM
Velarin and kindly informs Lord Hmitri that there will be no statue for now, though something else is being considered. Lord Hmitri takes this with ease. Velarin spends a much of his time relaxing.
Everyone enjoys the festivities, spending time at various gatherings. Brom, Barratore and Emrys make it a point to thank the smith for the dagger, which Brom and Barratore wear prominently.
Brom and Barratore spend much of their time travelling the Cinnamon Valley, meeting drinking with the people, though they take different routes. The visits are always apprecaited, and they are well received and well fed. Brom’s time in Frog Hollow is interesting. Tavid is there, again trying to engage him in debate on local politics.
The others spend the time relaxing and studying. Lanliss speaks with Velarin and others about learning magic.
Regarding the strange, grey shadow stone, care is taken to keep it in the dark and those that can, use magical means to examine the stone. They learn that it does not detect as magic or evil (or any alignment for that matter.) You believes that it likely has its origins in the Plane of Shadow, and surmise that it could be used in conjunction with certain transmutation spells to alter things.
Your best guess is that it is essentially solid shadow material. It is about as hard as stone, but much lighter in weight. It can be broken like stone. When a piece is exposed to normal or bright light, it begins shrink as it throws off shadowy tendrils and wisps, which seemingly evaporate into nothing.
Call For Help
ADM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Friday September 22nd, 2017 4:01:50 PM
Finish up the business as needed. Lord Himttri has requested the Keepers meet with him in the morning to discuss what has been going on and enjoy breakfast.
[ooc: Monday real time this post is a notice and tracking point for myself. Also please check that the above map link works, it will be the link I use going forward when I post a map.]
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Friday September 22nd, 2017 6:00:57 PM
So I guess we are going to meet with Lord Himttri ? We should rest, he might have another thing for us.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward Friday September 22nd, 2017 11:43:43 PM
Emrys plans on brewing a few potions before their next adventure. He meets with the coven and plans out what herbs and materials are needed for what they plan to brew.
"Hmm, eyes of toad, check, scales of lemur, yes. Who spilled the goat bile? Oh my, we have SO much hemlock, we better use it! We're down to only a pound of mummified flesh and half a jar of cream of tartar! We appear to be low on cat whiskers too."
Angus immediately turns around to head back to the living quarters of the manor house when his trip is interrupted. "Angus! NO, no ... not Valdor's! That would be very bad!"
Angus sighs and says, "Ehh ... of course." And promptly returns.
(I need to consult the new Item Creation rules ... it's been too long.)
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Saturday September 23rd, 2017 8:14:29 PM
Brom returns from his travels refreshed but tired. Lots of food and drink and also some hard work over the two week period makes the barbarian a tuckered out boy, but Brom enjoys helping out. At the places he passes, he lends his great strength to help in tasks that the villages need.
Immediately upon getting back to Magpie Crossing, he drops off his armor and weapons, grabs his civilian clothes, and heads off the bathhouse for a good soak.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Sunday September 24th, 2017 6:29:31 PM
Barratore returns to Magpie feeling good. He met a great deal of people here in the Vale and he hopes extended a bit of the personal touch of the The Keepers of the Vale to them. His trip was far less physically exerting as Broms, it was more about stories, food and drink. Barratore catches the others up over dinner on his last couple weeks about the Vale.
In the morning, armored up with his WLA badge, he is ready to meet with Hmittri
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Sunday September 24th, 2017 11:01:44 PM
Baslim has few preparations beyond stretching, reading his scriptures, and praying. After a small breakfast, he is ready to go and meet with Lord Hmittri.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Monday September 25th, 2017 12:25:42 AM
edson heads with the others for the breakfast meeting in the morning.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Monday September 25th, 2017 8:49:10 AM
In the morning, V begins repacking much of his gear, expecting that the meeting with Lord Hmitri will be shortly followed by their departure, and the end to their rest and relaxation.
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Monday September 25th, 2017 2:50:10 PM Lanliss rests and prepares himself for a morning meeting.
Emery has spent some time collecting odd components and doing some crafting. [ooc: looks like you had a couple of weeks to get this done game time form what GM Mark had posted.
Brom, possible a few pounds heavier form the feasting, has returned to Magpie refreshed, clean and ready to move on.
Like Brom, Barratore has traveled and extended the personal touch to the people of the people of Cinnamon Valley.
Shepherd, Edson and Velarin make their morning preparation and head to meet with Lord Hmitri.
Having been collected by the various runners the Keepers meeting Lord Hmitri at Strong Wind Castle early in the morning. He greets you in a customary fashion and invites you to sit and eat. As you take your places a guard escorts in a very distraught looking man in simple farm cloths. He has the look of someone who has recently traveled some distance very quickly. A bit dusty form the road still and disheveled.
“Begging your pardon Lord Himttri, I just rode here form the Tilset place as fast as I could. It is good that the beloved Keepers of the Val are here as well, very good I fear. The Tilset's place was beset by swarms of insects last night! Bugs, big bunches of the little insects but not normal, no not normal at all, came out of the woods last night and then retreated back in taking some vegetables in their wake. They, well they were very grey, wrong looking cockroaches.” he pauses to collect his thoughts. “The family hid but asked me to run here, maybe look for you or the Keepers for help. Naturally the did not wish to abandon their home.”
Concerned Lord Himttri confesses that he really doesn’t have anyone who can deal with this sort of thing and that the color, naturally, concerns him. Recent events with the Glierrox eruption make the coloring of the bugs a bit too much to be coincidence. Still he understands if the Keepers have been through enough already.
The runner, agitated and tired, is happy to answer any questions though what he knows is probably limted. He is even more happy for the drink he has been offered after his ride.
The farm itself is a couple hours journey north and slightly west towards The Dread by horseback.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Monday September 25th, 2017 4:43:32 PM
Hmmmm. It would appear that the shadow lords master had a backup plan....or an ulterior motive. Either way, it is likely that these things are shadow related, and therefore our problem. Perhaps these stone globs dissipate and reform into other things in time. They were transmutation all in nature. What they can form is a concerning question. I believe we should make haste for the tilset place. Besides, we wouldn't Brom and Barratore to be deprived of destroying our enemies.
Since we neither have nor use horses it will take us significantly longer unless someone has rapid transport for seven.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Monday September 25th, 2017 9:42:21 PM
Barratore nods and grunts several times during the story. "How large are the insects?" Is his question. He wanted to know whether he he stompin or stabbing them. Barratore heartily agrees with V, leaving soonest and not wasting time. The fighter has no mass transportation of course
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Monday September 25th, 2017 11:58:47 PM "A vermin infestation? We must be of assistance. How large are they? A knuckle? A handspan? The size of a housecat?"
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Tuesday September 26th, 2017 12:06:11 AM
"Bugs? What are we exterminators now?" Edson asks after the runner tells the story. The elf is obviously joking and gets ready and heads out to the farms with the others when the time comes/
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward Tuesday September 26th, 2017 12:12:34 PM
Emrys listens with great interest about these swarms of vermin.
"You say they came from the woods ... do you mean Culverwood or some other wood?"
Emrys is fully aware that he and others of his bloodline (bloodwitches) have an affinity with vermin. He himself have vomited swarms of hornets before ... even transforming his own flesh into all sorts of creeping crawlers. Though he isn't about to betray his kind with the public. He will discuss his theories with his fellowship in private.
He does recall an encounter with a monstrolger who communed with vermin ... on the border of the Monster Preserve. Though he doesn't remember her vermin possessing this strange coloration.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+6=24 ; Tuesday September 26th, 2017 12:24:32 PM
"Looks like break-time's over." He says. Brom also agrees with V in leaving as soon as they can. Most of the questions he had had been asked by the others. Brom thinks about what he knows of swarms so that he can relay that information to the group (Knowledge Nature DC24).
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Tuesday September 26th, 2017 4:00:55 PM Velarin considers the implications of where these creatures may have come from as the others ask question of the runner.
Both Barratore and Shepherd question more as to the nature of the insects, size of the insects being of importance.
The runner responds to the first questions, clearly relieved that there may be actions. “Oh, normal roach size, smaller than a finger each of them but there was a lot of them. The group was the size of a wagon, at least, I would say.”
Edson jokes about being exterminators and the runners face falls before he catches on to the joke. “Oh, oh, see. I am glad you seem to see this as serious, I was worried that I might get laughed at. Bugs threatening a farm in the Cinnamon Valley just sounds crazy.”
Emerys question causes the runner to pause, concerned he has made an error in directions. “I apologies, I have moved around a lot and got confused. The Tilset farm is outside of Merrydale, you have the right of it. I… that could have been bad.” [OOC: Little ret-con there, sorry]
Brom seems to have the last word on the subject and conveys what he knows of swarms to the group. [OOC: Immune to weapons damage when made up of diminutive creatures, immune to trip, grapple or bulrush and can cause ‘distraction’.]
The trip to the farm will take you the better part of the day. With a short time for preparation, and hour or so, the party would arrive late afternoon. Does the party make any specific preparation or simply grab their gear and travel?
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Tuesday September 26th, 2017 4:37:39 PM
I think some of us might need to prepare for this a little bit gentlemen. Based on Broms knowledge of this swarm, Brom and Barratore's weapons will be useless. From our previous encounters, the shadow creatures have resistance to electricity, if they are not immune to it altogether. i will switch to mostly fire based and area spells, But we need to come up with a way for Brom and Barratore to be able to make an impact. Any brilliant ideas? a few elixirs of fiery breath? necklace of fireballs?
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Tuesday September 26th, 2017 5:58:05 PM
I do remember being a captive... But the descriptions seems to me that our problem is not with nature but rather a malevolent. Lanliss says.
Valerin, Is there a fire based enchantments you can cast on our weapons ? Lanliss asks Valerin.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Tuesday September 26th, 2017 11:32:02 PM "I am ready." Baslim grips his staff and raps it on the ground. "I have some spells prepared that should work against vermin. Whenever preparations are complete."
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Wednesday September 27th, 2017 12:13:24 AM
"I'm good to go" Edson says. " Pack Light... stay light. Move light. " The elf checks his weapons one last time to make sure everything is good. "yeah... I'm ready."
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Wednesday September 27th, 2017 3:51:08 PM
{ooc: Had a ret-con question. It is retroactively changing a detail. In my very first post I said the farm was NW which was wrong, it is outside Merrydale and I just forgot. I mention because I received a question.}
As the Keepers discuss how to proceed Velarin talks a bit about shadow creatures and gives some suggestions for dealing with swarms.
Lanliss suggests the problem is not with nature but some outside force and inquires about fire based enchantments that Valerin may be able to cast on weapons.
Shebherd and Edson declare they are ready to proceed as is when the others are prepared.
{ooc: if some last minute prep or purchase needs to take place we can still do that.}
Lord Hmitri excuses the runner and bids the Keepers well as they head off to make preparations and travel.
The journey takes the bulk of the day and when you arrive the sun is low in the sky; two or so hours of daylight remain. Over a small crest you spot a modest two-story farm house with a cultivated field behind it to the south with woods beyond. The road you follow turns shortly after the farmhouse and looks to continue off a bit west.
The farm is quiet but as you approach but you can see the door crack open and a middle age man looking out. The man yells to the group “Keepers of the Vale? Oh goodness, your here to help!”
Two younger children, a blond boy and his little sister, push pass him and come outside the house to marvel at the group followed quickly by their mother. The children are excited and chattering about the Keepers.
“Lance! Leslie! Get back in the house. You as well Marilyn. There here to help, I think, but let me talk to them please. They don’t need you all over them.” he sighs as his family backs off a bit “I am sorry. They have been cooped up all day.”
The kids jostle each other and their mother, clearly needing some time to be kids.
Perception DC25 Highlight to display spoiler: { Just south of what you can see on the map you can see what looks like the recent crop damage. }
Map at link above, you can enlarge the image in the view menu or press present on the upper right for full screen.
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 d20+17=31 ; Wednesday September 27th, 2017 4:36:57 PM
Have you saw or heard anything suspicious recentlyLanliss asks the old man We are here to help he adds.
Perception 31
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 d20+26=31 ; Wednesday September 27th, 2017 8:51:20 PM
ooc: Perception 31
Baslim holds up a hand to block the sun and frowns as he surveys the field. "It looks like your crops have been damaged. Are they trampled? Eaten? Blighted? I'm guessing the vermin in question are responsible."
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Wednesday September 27th, 2017 9:03:49 PM
(prior to leaving) Yes Lanliss, there are fire enchantments for blades, but as far as I recall, they need to be added to the blade over a lengthy time, and may not even work in this situation. If the insects aren't getting hit by the blade, then the flame would not effect them. I think we will have to go with spellcaster power to start, and root out the actual problem to see what is really needed.
(now) Yes my good man, as Lanliss says, we are here to help. I think it would be safe enough at the moment to let them free of the house, as long as they stay close. We would do whatever necessary to prevent harm coming to them. But please, perhaps you could tell us the story of everything that happened here so that we may know where to start.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) d20+12=19 ; Wednesday September 27th, 2017 9:05:38 PM
(Perception failed, disregard)
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet d20+5=22 ; Wednesday September 27th, 2017 9:24:59 PM
Barratore enjoys the trip out to the farm and upon arriving, he nods and gives a small wave. While the others talk with the farmer, Barratore makes a circuit about the house, he wants to take in the lay of the land and just a general feel of the layout of the farm itself. Perception 22
The loop does not take the minotaur long to complete with his enhanced speed and soon enough he is back with the group. In time to hear the farmers tale of what happened at the request of V
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+23=31 ; d20+15=30 ; d20+6=15 ; Wednesday September 27th, 2017 11:11:18 PM
Brom doesn't say much on his way out to Merrydale and then to the farm. He keeps his eyes peeled for things. As they get closer to Merrydale, and while passing Glitterox, he keeps his eyes towards the mountain.
Arriving at the farm, Brom notices the damaged crops. While Barratore surveys the surroundings and the others talk with the family, Brom heads over to the damaged crop area to see what he can find. Searching about he looks at the ground for tracks, and at the crops to determine what happened.
Perception DC 31, Survival DC 30, Knowledge Nature DC 15
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward d20+18=34 ; Thursday September 28th, 2017 11:24:59 AM
(Perception: 34)
"Baslim, I do believe you are correct. I shall remedy this blight upon our return, once this infestation is thoroughly squashed."
Also he is going through a grocery list in his head of vermin-related ingredients that his alchemy laboratory are currently running low on.
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Thursday September 28th, 2017 3:49:41 PM Lanliss, Shepherd and Velarin question Lance Tilset on what has happened so far and what damaged was caused by the vermin.
“Well, you see we have lived here for quite some time, the boy is 10 and he was born here, and we have never had anything like this. Bugs are always an issue but these ones looked grey and were working together. I have heard of such thing but never thought I would see it.
"As to what happened. It was right about nightfall last night and Marilyn was just sitting us down for dinner, she made roast vegetables with a little lamb, when we hear a hell of a buzzing racket form out near the crops. I grabbed a lantern and the boy and I went to look. There was this big group of bugs, had to be bigger then a wagon all over our crops. As they moved the crops behind looked pick bear of anything that could be picked along with the leaves."
"I was going to go try and scatter them with my lantern but thought the better of it since Little Lance was with me. We hightailed it to the house and about an hour later the noise was gone. I looked today but didn’t want to get to close for some reason.”
Emrys reassures the family that the Keepers will help sort the problems out.
Barratore does a circuit of the land and returns to hear the farmers story.
Brom goes to examine the damaged crops.
Broms investigation turns up some additional information. First he can easily see the affected area when he gets close, it looks like the plants were chewed right down to the stems. Tracking back a little further you can see a path leading away where grass the grass was eaten thin and branches were stripped.
During Barratore’s survey of the area the kids did break away from their mother and are off playing by an out building just past the farmhouse.
Lance continues “I hope we didn’t bother you for nothing we have not see nor heard anything since last night.” and as those words are out of his mouth the party can hear a buzzing noise grow louder and see swarms of roaches exited the woods from two locations near the south of the farm.
Combat Begins Party is up.
Map is updated remember the children are off playing to the side.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 10d6+6=44 ; Thursday September 28th, 2017 7:37:08 PM Barratore. The kids!! You are quick, We can find out if your weapons work on them after the family is inside
Spellcasters let's light them up!
V targets the red bug group. "let's see how tough these bugs are gonna be." He then let's fly with a fireball at the red bug group. (Reflex save 22 for 1/2. Damage 44.)
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Thursday September 28th, 2017 8:35:48 PM
Lanliss will try to quickly run to R11 (if possible) and shouts. Get inside the house ! Warning the boys to get out of harms way from the swarm that is coming their way.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward 2d6=6 ; 2d6=3 ; 2d6=10 ; 2d6=6 ; Thursday September 28th, 2017 9:07:57 PM
Emrys nods approvingly at Velarin's fireball attack. "That's very good, dear Velarin. How about I fighting fire with fire my own special way," he says with a sly and wicked smile.
He begins to speak a few words of power, followed by a hand flourish or two. Then suddenly the air becomes alive with a new buzzing sound!
Emrys begins to laugh with delight with the coming storm. "FLY, MY PRETTIES, FLY!"
(Casting Insect Plague. Summons four 10-ft swarms of carnivorous wasps. Range: 960'. All four swarms converge on the Blue Swarm. Damage: 6+3+10+6=25 damage + poison, Fort Save DC: 13 x4, 1/round for 4 rounds. -1 dex.)
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Thursday September 28th, 2017 10:48:01 PM
Baslim graps Lance by the arm and spins him to look him in the eyes. "You and Marilyn will follow me! Now! We must reach your children!" He rushes Lance and Marilyn forward while also yelling to their children. "Children! Come here, now!"
Hopefully he can meet them halfway to cast his spell once the entire family is within his reach.
O Alemi, hear my cry: Guide me through the blackest nights. Steel my heart against the temptations of the wicked. Make me to rest in the warmest places.
A bubble of white energy surrounds Baslim and the Tilset family.
ooc: Cast antilife shell.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+23=29 ; Thursday September 28th, 2017 11:08:11 PM
Spotting the swarms, Brom runs to the children and in one scooping motion picks both of them up and readies himself to take the children to safety. (Brom has Run feat allowing x4 movement in his armor.)
"Don't be afraid, uncle Brom's gonna keep ya safe. Hang on tight. We're gonna be moving fast." He says keeping an eye on the swarms.
Perception DC29
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Thursday September 28th, 2017 11:09:12 PM
He moves to Y17.
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork d20+3=14 ; d20+6=17 ; Friday September 29th, 2017 3:43:54 PM Velarin, reacting without hesitation, launches a fireball at the swarm not in the crops, wisely preserving the Tilset lively hood. {Reflex: 14} The swarm takes the full brunt of the flame bursting sphere and is greatly diminished in numbers.
Not to be outdone Emerys summons a plague of wasps to attack the cockroaches. {Fort: 17} The wasps do signigicient damage as well but are not as effective as the ball of flame.
Lanliss and Brom , from opposite directions, attempt to gather the family while Shepherd moves closer to protect them with his divine power. {ooc: Playing it that Brom’s command made them wait for him, the swarms cannot get to them this round regardless. Assuming Shepherd would not trigger spell yet.}
The elder Tilsets move with Shepherd as instructed while Marily screems “My babies! Save them.’
The damaged swarms advance further towards the party. The swarm in the field leaves a swath of damage in its wake.
Round 2 – Party Up Red Swarm: -44 HP Blue Swarm: -25 HP
Map updated
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Friday September 29th, 2017 5:21:19 PM
Barratore moves to grab the kids. "On It" he calls to V as he heads out, getting himself closed up right behind Little Lance [Double move to X/15 Barratore's speed is 40']
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Friday September 29th, 2017 7:36:13 PM
Having the kids in his arms, Brom heads back to their parents.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 10d6+6=45 ; Friday September 29th, 2017 7:41:42 PM
Well played Emrys! I will continue on with the group i already hit, as my fireballs would wipe out the crops. I will leave the blue group to you!
Velarin drops another fireball on the red group(45 damage, reflex save of 22 for 22)
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward 2d6=11 ; 2d6=5 ; 2d6=8 ; 2d6=8 ; Friday September 29th, 2017 11:02:40 PM
The swarms of carnivorous wasps, full of rage and ravenous, continue their feeding frenzy on the marching cockroaches.
(Damage to Blue Swarm: 11+5+8+8=32 + poison. Four Fort Saves DC 13, 1/round for 4 rounds. -1 dex.)
Daemon is most interested in the outcome. The viper, curled around Emrys' body, has poked his head up over his master's shoulder. "Ssend another ssswarms, pleasse!"
"My pretties have those roaches hopelessly outnumbered already. Any more would be overkill."
"What'ss wrong with overkillss?"
Emrys readies an action to summon another Insect Plague if another swarm enters the field of battle.
(Any damage to the four wasp swarms or are the roaches just eating?)
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Sunday October 1st, 2017 10:48:40 PM
Baslim continues toward the children, and will cast his spell once he gas the parents and children within reach.
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Monday October 2nd, 2017 4:36:24 PM
Between Barratore and Brom the children are corralled into the same area as the parents so that Shepherd can cast the anti-life shell.
Velarin launches another ball of fire that reduces the first swarm to a piles of crispy critters.
Emyrs, seeing that his originally summoned swarm does not peruse summons a second swarm which finishes off the invading roaches.
The family is very much relieved and the children, inside the protective shield are bouncing up and down with excitement and chanting “Keepers, Keepers, Keepers like they were at a sporting event.
Combat Over
{ooc: Emyrs tweaked your action minorly. Our initial spell stipulates that the summoned swarms do not move. Also, the roaches did not cause any damage to your swarm because they did not end their turn in the same square}
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Monday October 2nd, 2017 5:29:24 PM
Lanilss feel relieved as the children are safe from harm and the magic users have turned the swarm into ashes.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward Monday October 2nd, 2017 7:03:43 PM
Emrys waves off the wasps in the outfield ... the ones that failed to pursue the roaches. He allows the second group of swarming wasps to munch down and feed upon their fallen prey. A little reward for their efforts before returning them to wherever they came from. The wet, squishing crunch of exoskeleton and gooey innards is almost melodious to his ears ... soothing like a song ... but Emrys hasn't studied much about that kind of art form.
Daemon slithers off of Emrys to go be a snake in the grass, but doesn't venture too far from his master.
Once the wasps have had their fill, Emrys gives them a bow and blows them a kiss ... with that they disappear into thin air. He then surveys the damage left behind by the roaches ... "This will not do!"
"I call upon the Great Wood ... the colossal stewards of the Wold ... your mighty roots run deep and far ... allow your blessings to flourish here ... may they be fruitful and abundant!"
(Casting Plant Growth. Using the Enrichment Option: This effect targets plants within a range of a half-mile, raising their potential productivity over the course of the next year to one-third above normal.)
Upon casting the spell, his hands take on a more wooden-like appearance, with thorns sprouting from his knuckles, various joints and finger tips. Upon completion, they return to normal. Emrys rubs his hand together until they become soft and supple once again.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Monday October 2nd, 2017 7:04:23 PM
Well, It appears we have a path of destruction to follow to it's source. Not much daylight remains, so perhaps it best to spend the night here, and see if other things go bump in the night? We can head out at first light in the direction that they came from.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Monday October 2nd, 2017 8:08:06 PM
edson stands awestruck for what seems like forever..
once snapped out he shakes his head and looks at the carnage.
" Great job guys... killed the bugs and saved the plants.
he moves over by the bugs.. making sure not to step pn any or disturb the wasps.. he looks around.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+15=23 ; Monday October 2nd, 2017 9:06:39 PM
With the bugs dispatched and the family safe, Brom comes down from a state of alert. As much as he would like to pursue the path immediately, he agrees that morning would be better overall. But he does head out to the edge of the forest and the path of plant carnage. With his torch out, he looks for signs. He moves in 20-30 feet in the hopes of spotting something.
Returning after his search he notes Emrys's spell, "Do ya think there's a caster behind the bugs?" He says posing the question to Emrys as well as the other casters in the group.
Survival DC 23
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Monday October 2nd, 2017 9:57:12 PM
Barratore cannot help but grin at the masterfully executed rescue and dispatch of the hoards. He arches a brow as he notes more of the changes that have come over Emrys as of late. The son of a legend, Emrys to steeped in mystery and apparently dormant power now beginning to awaken. The Minotaur is not concerned or worried in the least though, it will simply be something to watch
Barratore moves with Brom to have a look and returns with him agreeing that morning and full light will be the best course for following the trail
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward d20+25=32 ; Monday October 2nd, 2017 9:58:17 PM
"If these roaches were summoned magically, then their remains would have disappeared ... back to where they came." Emrys looks back to see if the pile of roaches are still there. "But then again, this swarm could be the product of transmutation magic, instead of conjugation. There is one such spell amongst my repertoire. Maybe it prudent to expand this examination."
Emrys casts a simple divination to see if any auras of magic remaining.
(Casting Detect Magic. Stares at dead roaches. Knowledge [Arcana]: 32)
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Monday October 2nd, 2017 11:47:05 PM "Blessed be the Light... even when its help is unnecessary." Baslim dismisses the spell and smiles at the children. "Until we solve this mystery, little ones, I suggest you stay close to the house."
He turns to the party. "Shall we investigate? I imagine they left an easy trail."
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Tuesday October 3rd, 2017 9:17:56 AM
The bugs vanquished the party relaxes. {XP: 4000 each}
Shepherd dismisses his spell thanking the divine for the aid even it it was not needed. After instructing the children to stay close to the house he moves to investigate with Barratore, Brom and Edson
Showing his experience and compassion for the family Emerys casts a spell to rejuvenate and help the damaged crops recover and flourish. Seeing the workings of the spell the daughter, Leslie, stands mouth agape. Clearly fascinated by what is going on.
Lanliss and Velarin posits that while it is compelling that they peruse the creatures this evening it would be better to wait for morning.
The investigation some of the members have done reveals that the path will be easy to follow {Brom’s survival check will do it} as long as there is light. Moving out at night will require a second check.
Emrys investigation into the nature of the insect swarm. He quickly determines that the insects have been infected by the shadow-stuff that was ejected Gliterox when the Keepers returned to Cinnamon Valley. There is a slight aura of nature magic, possible from the infection.
Lance, the father, approaches the Keepers after watching the efficient and deft handling of the situation. “Keepers, we may well owe you our life. There is little we can do to repay you but offer dinner and a night indoors. It is going to be dark soon and I would think even those as mighty as you might not want to wander the woods at night. We do not have beds for all but my family will gladly give our for the night so at least some of our saviors are not on the floor.”
Will the party move on this evening or stay the night and leave in the AM. In either case I will need survival and perception rolls when the group moves out.
{ooc: I apologize for the early post. I will be tied up the bulk of the day away from a computer and would not post to 8pm otherwise}
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+1=9 ; d20+15=31 ; d20+23=25 ; Tuesday October 3rd, 2017 12:17:26 PM
"Thanks, whatcha offer is more than enough. We're just helpin' neighbors out." He says. "No need givin' up yer bed ta us. We can handle a night on the floor. It's probably better than we sleep most times anyway."
Brom will tell stories for the kids (Perform DC 9) and when his stories underperforms he just says "It's a work in progress."
After a few hours, once everyone has settled in for the night, Brom is awake and goes outside. He walks the farm through the night, keeping an eye out.
The next morning, Brom is already dressed.
Survival DC 31, Perception DC 25
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet d20+6=9 ; d20+6=17 ; Tuesday October 3rd, 2017 4:58:44 PM
Brom is the outdoorsman of the group and Barratore will simply assist in the initial investigation, and poor job he does at that. [Survival Aid Another 9]
"No thanks are needed at all, but I certainly won't turn down a meal" Barratoer says with a teeth bearing gin The fighter settles in for a nice evening with a fire, friends and food. Barratore cannot fit in any bed the family owns and just scouts out a place on the main room floor and even that might require a bit of relocation of furniture.
Barratore is up pretty early and wanting to impose his abundant appetite again, he looks to his own ration supplies along with a loaf of bread and wheel of cheese he keeps in his Haversack
Then it is out the door and to the trail. Brom, by necessity has to be first. Hard to lead from behind. The Daylight allows Barratore to see the trail far easier and assist Brom. [Survival Aid Another 17]
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) d20+1=13 ; d20+12=26 ; Tuesday October 3rd, 2017 7:50:58 PM
Wonderful Emrys. So it would appear possible that all the dissolving shadow rocks have a transmutational capability, transforming nearby creatures into nasty shadow versions. there was a lot of dissolved shadow rock. We could be busy for awhile. And nothing is to say it only transforms little things. Although, perhaps one of the healers would be so kind as to take a spell to remove disease, if in case this would fall into that category, or at least a way to determine if this condition is in fact a disease. There is nothing yet to determine who or what is affected.
Yes, we would not dream of taking your beds. Many a floor and ground we have slept on, it is second nature. However, in agreement with Barratore, a meal would be wonderful. Perhaps one of my companions will be able to provide us all with a feast in the morning to repay you.
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 d20+17=23 ; Tuesday October 3rd, 2017 8:03:40 PM
Lanliss will agree with the group for whatever they decide
Perception 23
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Tuesday October 3rd, 2017 11:12:32 PM
Edson spends the night on the floor. First laughing at Brom's attempt at a story, before turning in for the night. In the morning he is up and ready to go at dawn.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. ritual: ward Tuesday October 3rd, 2017 11:40:49 PM
In response to Velarin's observation, Emrys says, "Agreed. It begs to question how this shadow element transmutes the victim; from contact, ingestion or simply breathing in its vapors upon being dissolved by light. If it is a disease, I can take care of that. My bloodline can evenhandedly cleanse or fester any malady, natural or otherwoldly. We should also consider this 'darkening' a poison or even a curse. For the sake of spell preparation, it would be prudent that the rest of you prepare for the latter. If it be a disease, and the creature be willing, I can purge the sickness with a touch."
Emrys graciously accepts and appreciates any food allowed to him. An empty chair by the fire and a blanket would suffice for the night. Daemon finds comfort coiled under his master's cloak.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Tuesday October 3rd, 2017 11:52:21 PM
ooc: Why do I keep seeing Chinese characters in the DM posts? :)
"Let us leave in the morning. The Light will guide us."
Though heroic drama would dictate we are attacked during the night.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. d20+16=18 ; d20+26=42 ; Wednesday October 4th, 2017 12:07:27 AM
At morning's twilight, Emrys and Daemon will go outside, some place out of the wind, and prepare to meditate and cast rituals. He would prefer to do this inside, but wishes not to disturb the rest. He had placed a few hot coals from the fire into his cauldron. With the addition of a few twigs and bits of wood scattered about, it would create a small fire for warmth.
Serving a dual purpose as a heat source and communication device, he contacts Angus. His cohort, Daemon and himself complete the power of three, necessary to perform the rituals. Over the next hour, he regains the woldsblood necessary to cast his spells. He also gains the abilities provided by two rituals: Ritual of Warding (DC 20) and the Ritual of Sharing (DC 30).
(Survival: 20, success. Misrolled: my modifier is +18, not +16. Spellcraft: 42, success.)
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Wednesday October 4th, 2017 2:54:26 PM
The groups agrees to spend the night which thrills the family as they feel it is the only repayment they can muster. Dinner that evening is preserved ham, dried meats, roast vegetables and a few tankards of beer. Marilyn did the cooking and only made one or two comments about how little help she was getting from her daughter.
Bromfs attempt to entertain the children, though not well made, do provide some smiles as the children were very willing participants. In fact, it quickly becomes obvious that Leslie is fascinated with the entire group.
As the Keepers discuss the nature of what is going on Lance gains a little more perspective on the problem which allows him to provide a few more facts. First and most importantly that they he had seen some other animals with the same shadow quality, squirrels and a raccoon at least, but he did not think much of it at the time. Now with context he mentions Mhorvin, a Druid who lived in the area, has not been seen since the eruption but no one has wanted to go and look for him.
In the morning the party makes its preparations and does some preliminary scouting of the area. Leslie, the daughter, follows Velarin from a distance, clearly fascinated by the elven wizard since he launched the fireballs in the defense of the farm.
Rising early, now with full light, the party can see that the trail of destruction lines up very well with the trail indicated as leading to the Druid Mhorvinfs location.
The forest gets darker as you go with large trees and a think canopy of leaves. It takes some time but the sharper eyed in the group pick out the occasional small animal, squirrels and even one deer, that have been touched by the shadow substance.
The further your travel the more of this sort of small shadow touched creature you see.
After a bit further Brom , Velarin and Lanliss both make out what looks like a desiccated stag deer and possibly another shape laying just past it.
{ooc: RE Chinese characters, I am not at all sure. For some reason a quotation and a K became that.}
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Wednesday October 4th, 2017 4:27:46 PM
"A Druid. Interesting. And possibly helpful. I might suggest seeking him out first, but if his goals are the same as ours, I believe he will seek us out. If not, our paths will likely cross shortly, as well as our weapons and his."
"Perhaps one of you wonderful divine casters would be willing to cast a heroes feast for us and our hosts? I believe we will likely have a long day ahead of us."
As Leslie follows V in the morning, he will stop at one point, and call her to him. "Are you interested in magic my child? There are many kinds. There is the magic of the clerics, based upon the gods, and the clerics devotion and wisdom in who they worship. There is the magic of the sorcerer, based on sheer will, personality, and inherent talent. There is my magic as well, The magic of the wizard. Based upon a strong mind, reason, logic, and knowledge. There are many other kinds as well. The path of using magic takes dedication to the art of it more than anything else. If you wish to truly follow the path of one who wishes to use magic, then, when you are of age, and have looked deep inside yourself and and believe it is a part of who you are, and what you want, come find me or send for me, and I will help you as I can."
V stops for a moment, first staring firmly into Leslie's eyes, and then smiling at her. " I have a gift for you child, but it is between you and me." V pulls a single gold piece from his bag and holds it in a clenched fist." I give this gift to you Leslie on one condition. You only use it to come find me, to send for me, or to help your family in their darkest hour. Should in the future, when you are of age, decide that magic is not your path, then it is yours to do with as you please. I must caution you child. There are many who would do horrible things to take that from you, so you must keep it secret from all. Never show it or talk of it. Hide it well, only bringing it forth should you need it for one of my conditions."
V waits for her response, and if she agrees, he will place it in her hand. If not, he will pocket it. "Off you go girl. The keepers have work to do. Fare thee and thine family well."
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 d20+17=34 ; Wednesday October 4th, 2017 8:23:36 PM
Lanliss stays alert to the thing he just sees, getting a little bit closer
Just to take a closer look, he tells himself. Lanliss doesn't try to be stealthy as he doesn't fear what is possible in front of him
Perception 34
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+23=37 ; d20+15=19 ; Wednesday October 4th, 2017 8:28:47 PM
Moving through the forest following the trail, Brom spots the deer and something else. He quickly stops and raises a fist to the others. Turning his head, while keeping an eye forward he poses a question to the rest of the group.
"This stuff is shadow material, right. Any chance something killed from one of these infected animals could become a shadow or worse?"
He moves over to Barratore. "Not to be paranoid, but let's be safe checking this out. You left, I'm right. In slow and on our toes." With that Brom draws his sword and moves in on the right of the deer corpse and the other thing.
Perception DC 37, Survival DC 19
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Wednesday October 4th, 2017 8:32:32 PM
Same time as Lanliss. So I'm adding Brom's response.
Lanliss moves in. Brom holds up a hand. "Lanliss, Barratore and I got left and right. You move up the middle. But let us move ahead, just in case." He says to the rogue.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet d20+7=23 ; Wednesday October 4th, 2017 8:35:59 PM
When the stage is pointed out, Barratore will move forward, donning his shield and trying to anticipate from where an ambushing creature might spring
Perception 23
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. d20+9=24 ; d20+22=25 ; d20+22=36 ; Wednesday October 4th, 2017 11:04:34 PM
Before they leave, Emrys thanks the family for their hospitality. However he does have one request. He reaches into his side pouch and takes out a small redwood cone.
"Here, plant this some place special to you. It's a Culver Redwood. May it watch over you all the years of your life and the lives of your children yet to come."
----------------------
As they make their way over the trail and deeper into the woods, Emrys can't help but feel delight being among the tall trees. However he finds the taint of the shadow element quite disturbing ... a bit unnerving, but not unfamiliar. Having known the dark's touch and employed the use of both positive and negative energies, and seeing its effect on the wildlife; he can only assume it is some sort of death effect. (Knowledge [Planes]: 25, Knowledge [Religion]: 36)
"Daemon," he says telepathically, "Any odors in the air you find alarming? Emrys gives him a guiding stare (Guide gaze ability: +2 skill check). Daemon flicks his forked tongue to the air several times. (Perception [Scent]: 24)
To answer Brom's question, he says, "It's within the realm of possibility ... it is the stuff of shadow ... be on your guard." Then the thought enters his mind, it is possible these creatures have become products of undeath. "As a precaution, I am warding each of us from the perceptions of the undead." Emrys casts his spell and touches each of his friends ... "if they are spawns of undeath, they shall not see, hear or smell us."
(Casting Hide from Undead. Duration: 140 minutes.)
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 d20+23=36 ; Thursday October 5th, 2017 2:11:38 PM
Edson watches the others move up to the stag, he stays back and watches to make sure nothing sneaks up on them. his arrow is knocked and ready.
perception 36
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Thursday October 5th, 2017 3:49:49 PM
Before the party leaves Velarin spots Leslie and addresses her apparent intrest. She he offers the present and an opportunity for a different future she smiles. It takes her two attempts to find the words but finally gets out “I will… thank you. Your… I want to be…” and she falls silent.
Still at the farm Emerys thanks the family and offers a gift. Lance thanks him and the keepers and promises to do as he has been instructed with the gift. The family watches the Keepers leave.
As they move into the woods Emerys and Daemon work to identify the what is going on and keep an eye out for threats. Emerys also cast a spell cloaking the party form the undead.
Lanalis, Brom and Barratore approach the stag from each side.
Edson holds back as the other approach an arrow resting on his bow.
As the party moves forward they can see that the second desiccated body is that of a halfling. Brom from where you are near the first body you can see that the halflings gear is intact and his bow and drawn sword seem to be of high quality.
You and Emerys, with the help of Daemon, also can sense that there is something moving to the east of your location and from the buzzing noise it is a safe bet that it will soon be visible.
Map is up. The trees are tall and can provide concelement.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Thursday October 5th, 2017 5:36:23 PM
V hands Leslie the coin and moves out with everyone else. "The bodies. have they been picked mostly clean, perhaps by a swarm? we should remember to take the time to see if the farmer knows who he may have been. we should collect the halflings gear in case he has family nearby. Hopefully he's not the ranger. I would much prefer larger critters than these swarms. Otherwise, Brom and Barratore will get bored. they get grouchy when they are not killing everything."
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 d20+17=26 ; d20+20=24 ; Thursday October 5th, 2017 8:48:54 PM
Guys, I think we will have another meeting with those flying stuff. Lanliss then tries to keep himself unnoticed by the flying insects that are coming at them. Stealth 24 Perception 26
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+23=40 ; d20+15=17 ; Thursday October 5th, 2017 9:04:18 PM
"Nobody likes ta just watch." He says back to V. "More swarms. Not sure we wanna confront everyone of 'em. Grab the sword and we keep movin'. We pick up the pace a bit we should be able to outrun it."
Brom doesn't like to run, but with he and Barratore unable to harm these tiny insects, the casters would run out of spells quickly. Also because of the sheer numbers of groups of insects in the forest it would be impossible to destroy them all.
Perception DC 40, Survival DC 17
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. d20+18=30 ; Thursday October 5th, 2017 11:46:29 PM
(Survival: 30, to know what action is best to avoid dangers)
Emrys agrees with Brom's assessment. "The swarm is probably drawn to the scent of death, let's keep moving!" And move is what he does ... with the group, of course. He will scoop up whatever item is left by the body as he maneuvers through the clearing.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet d20+6=21 ; d20+7=17 ; Friday October 6th, 2017 11:10:57 AM
Barratore likes not standing up to any threat just little as Brom, but against hordes of tiny little bugs there was little his training had to offer. Other than avoiding them. Barratore picks up the sword and the halflings pack. "Might offer some clues to who he was or why he was out here."
"Flying things are harder to outrun. V? You might have to step up here again. Let's move out and see if we can move unnoticed"
Barratore is moving off swiftly
Aid another survival Brom 21 Perception 17
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Friday October 6th, 2017 3:21:24 PM
Emrys Know Checks form yesterday. Highlight to display spoiler: { Emrys contemplates the nature of the shadow effects in this area. He does not believe these shadows to be evil, nor are the shadowy plant and animal life evil. He does not believe this shadow influence is a death effect, nor is it associated with either negative or positive energy. But, it is unnatural, and those of evil disposition are often drawn to the unnatural. It reminds Emrys of his time crossing the Shadow Lands as he journeyed to the pocket dimension of the Krystal Palace. The Shadow Lands were a place where the dead wandered on their way to eternal rest - or eternal unrest. The shadows there belonged there. This ... this is not right.
Daemon does not find any particular scent associated with the shadow touched flora and fauna. }
While the party either starts grabbing items or moving away from the noise respectively two swarms can be seen through the trees. The swarms are coming from the East, the same direction the path you have been following has turned at present.
Lanliss and Brom get a good look at the swarms and can see that while one is crawling, or had individually jumping parts, the other is airborne and even from this distance would appear to be airborne. Brom can recognize the swarms as being made of ticks and wasps.
Velarin points out that one of the problems with swarms is that the front line folks may get board and grump.
Running will take you off the path but is an option, you may or may not get caught up with. Brom and Emrys support running while Barratore and Lanliss seem to favor hiding.
On the body of the unnamed halfling you remove worn leather armor (s), a dagger (s), a well-made short bow (s), a well-made longsword (s) and a purse (23gp and 17sp).
Map updated.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 10d6+6=42 ; Friday October 6th, 2017 7:45:40 PM
"Well fellas, while it may be easier to relocate, these things will try and kill whatever they encounter. I could not live with myself if these things killed an innocent family or some unwary travelers when there is something that we can do about it. I rested and re memorized, so I am going to fry some bugs. Emrys? up for the same as before? I'll take the white group.
V the launches a fireball into the midst of the white group(42 damage, reflex of 22 for half.)
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+23=32 ; d20+15=20 ; Saturday October 7th, 2017 11:01:38 PM
"It's not 'bout relocatin'. Thousands of swarms in a forest this size an' you got a dozen ta two dozen spells that work. But if you wanna blow yer load, don't let me stop ya."
"If yer gonna blow 'em up, hit the other one two so we can stay on the path."
Perception DC 32, Survival DC 20
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. Sunday October 8th, 2017 11:58:47 PM
"Very well then. I'm glad you left me the ticks ... they're disgustingly wretched creatures!"
Emrys moves up next to Brom to get a better view. As he begins to cast, his hands and arms become wooden again, covered in thorns. All around the swarm of ticks a very thick, pliable wall of bramble covered in dense sword-like thorns.
Emrys then removes his Rod of Quickening and casts another spell centered in the area where the bramble grew. The thick bramble begins to grind and grapple the ticks, raking their thorns over their blood-filled bodies.
(Casting Wall of Thorns. Effect: Fourteen 10-ft Cubes of bramble. Duration: 140 minutes. No Save. This would create a large block of bramble 40-ft wide(west to east) x 30-ft long(north to south) x 10-ft high with one extra 10-ft cube at the west side. I want bramble positioned so that the swarm within a middle cube ... not an edge cube!. I want them completely surrounded around all sides.
To move through the bramble requires a Strength check of 20. For every 5 points their Strength check exceeds 20, they move 5-ft. Every attempt to move causes 25 points of damage minus their AC (not counting Dex or dodge bonuses.)
(Casting a Quickened Entangle spell. Area: 40-ft radius spread, Centered in the Bramble zone. DC 20.)
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 d20+20=36 ; Monday October 9th, 2017 10:44:11 AM
Lanliss keeps hiding for the time being. Letting the magic users take care of the swarms.
stealth 36
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork d20+5=17 ; Monday October 9th, 2017 5:47:10 PM Velarin makes the decision for the group and launches a fireball into the middle of the swarm of shadow wasps. {ref 17}
Brom , far less enthused about the idea of fighting the bugs comments on the limited resources of a spell caster and the size of the woods.
Emrys tries a different approach then with the last group and summons a Wall of Thorns. The thorns sprout up quickly, containing the swarm which still can be heard make whatever noise a swarm of ticks would make.
Lanliss hide letting the casters do their things.
The wasps, after the crisp corpses of some of its number fallen to the ground, continue to advance on the party. Inside the brambles you can hear the movement of the tick swarm though it is difficult to see it before it reaches the edge of the bramble patch. Given the small nature of the swarm’s component parts they can navigate the bramble with comparative ease unlike a larger creature.
Party Up Round 2
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 d4=2 ; d20+10=25 ; d20+20=32 ; Monday October 9th, 2017 6:32:58 PM
Edson doesn't like the sound of whats coming and heads for a tree. ( having a problem with the map). once up he readies his bow and looks around. climb 25 perception 32
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Monday October 9th, 2017 8:11:38 PM
Barratore stays with the party and specifically will stay with V and Emrys. They were the most use right now and so he would see them kept safe. Brom had a point, he thought. A forest this size could have dozens upon dozens of swarms, but then again, he had been in other woods many times and never encountered a single one. SO who was to know. They shadow stuff was certainly at play, how many insects could it affect and cause to swarm? Hopefully not as many as Brom declared
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 10d6+6=33 ; Monday October 9th, 2017 8:50:09 PM
Well Brom, should we run across more later on, then perhaps staying my hand would be wisest. But for now, these are too close for my comfort to the lovely family we just left so they have incurred my wrath. To be honest, I would not be opposed to going forth in the day, killing as many as we can, and returning at night to rest and recuperate. There should be some limit to the amount of shadow stuff that has fallen. But, let us continue, and let facts dictate the wisest course of action.
How you doing Emrys? got yours?
V launches a second fireball at the mass of wasps heading our direction. (33 damage, reflex 22 for half)
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. 2d6=12 ; 2d6=7 ; 2d6=6 ; 2d6=12 ; 2d6=7 ; 2d6=7 ; 2d6=7 ; 2d6=5 ; Monday October 9th, 2017 10:38:06 PM
"This shouldn't be ... the bramble should have held them, no matter their size ... something is very wrong. Something has made them immune to my magical barrier! As if they have freedom of movement enchanting them."
Emrys casts Insect Plague, summoning four swarms of carnivorous wasps all around the tick swarm. His hand forms a dreadful claw and he reaches into the Shadow Realm (only flavor text) to heroically draw an extra drop of Woldsblood to cast the Insect Plague again!!
(Using a Hero Point to grant a second standard action and recast Insect Plague a second time.)
Four more swarms of wasps engulf the tick swarm ... and they're mad as heck!
(Eight Wasp Swarms attacking Tick Swarm. Damage: 12+7+6+12+7+7+7+5=63 points of damage. Tick Swarm needs to make eight different Fort Saves DC 13 vs. Poison.)
"I would have asked you to burn the bramble while they were inside, but they're moving through it as if it isn't there. We may need to retreat ... I can cast Windwalk on four of you. Any suggestions Velarin?"
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 13d6=57 ; Monday October 9th, 2017 11:30:28 PM "The Light burn you!" Shepherd Baslim reaches out with a glowing hand and calls down radiant white fire on the swarm of wasps.
ooc: Cast flame strike. 29 fire damage, 28 divine damage, Reflex DC 24 for half damage.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Monday October 9th, 2017 11:56:58 PM
Flames and fires burst in the forest. "Whoa, let's not set the woods on fire." He says. "You guys got anything that isn't gonna burin' everything down?"
Brom gives up on telling the casters not to waste their time with every group of bugs they run across.
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork d20+13=25 ; d10=5 ; d20+13=16 ; d20+13=29 ; d20+13=23 ; d20+13=23 ; d20+13=22 ; d20+13=18 ; d20+13=21 ; d20+7=19 ; Tuesday October 10th, 2017 2:13:37 PM
Emrys Highlight to display spoiler: { See email for notes on Wall of Thorns. }
Edson , not liking the sound of what is coming, heads for higher ground.
Barratore , despite his misgivings, stays with the casters to do what he can to defend them.
Velarin launches a second fireball the finishes off the wasps in a shower crispy sparks.
Emrys wasps do substantial damage to the ticks while still inside the thorns (whats good for the goose) but the poison doesn’t seem to take hold. Fortunately Shepherd calls down the power of the gods to finish off the ticks and at least one tree. {Fort Saves: 25, 16, 29, 23, 23, 22, 18, 21, and 19 | Reflex 19}
Brom expresses concern for the woods that is all around them, clearly not thinking deforestation is the way to handle the problem.
Surveying the battlefield the group sees a couple of smoldering trees and some destroyed underbrush, curtsey of the fireballs and holy flames, but can tell there is no chance of a wider forest fire. The halfling corpse lies, stripped of its gear, where you left it but it would not be a far reach to work out that the ticks had drained the poor halfling at some point.
With the threat past the forest is silent, any creatures nearby have surely been startled into quiet but the outburst of activity in their domain. The path visibly continues form this point if you wish to press forward. You do not see, hear, smell or taste any other threats at present.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Tuesday October 10th, 2017 3:55:11 PM
Excellent. Shall we continue on then? If this becomes an ongoing issue, then we may need to use Emrys' windwalk combined with a couple of my teleports to speed us along to the source, but for now, let's continue walking and see how widespread this issue has become. I am not sure whether this is something that has focused itself in an area and emits these things from there, or whether all the raining shadow rocks infected everything nearby and is widespread and random.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. Tuesday October 10th, 2017 4:12:19 PM
"Just say when ... I can also utter the words of recall and return us all back to the manor house ... in an instant. If the situation requires, of course."
Turning to the halfling, Emrys disheartened by the loss of life. "We should take a moment to bury the poor soul. It shouldn't take too long."
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Tuesday October 10th, 2017 11:20:54 PM
"Glad I could be of some assistance" Edson says as he climbs down from the tree. " I was ready to finish them off, but you guys jumped the gun.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Tuesday October 10th, 2017 11:37:46 PM "A fine sentiment, Emrys. This soul needs their final rites, then we move onward." Baslim digs and blesses and prays as necessary.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+23=25 ; d20+15=25 ; Tuesday October 10th, 2017 11:41:46 PM
Brom has no problems burying the poor halfling. He has no digging instrument but will use what he has to dig a shallow grave for the body.
"I saw that. Edson, death from above." he says with a smirk.
Once the grave is dug, Brom will move out again heading down the trail.
Perception DC 25, Survival DC 25
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Wednesday October 11th, 2017 10:02:43 AM
I guess we can move, Lanliss says. So do we have a plan in case we are out of magic ? Lanliss asks while they are going forward.
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Wednesday October 11th, 2017 2:56:54 PM
{ooc: 8000xp each for that last fight}
Velarin , glad the battle was handled considers what to do if they party were to become overwhelmed with swarms.
Emrys also comes up with fall back plans before deciding, along with Shepherd that the party should bury the body of the halfling.
Edson and Brom show their comradery and then pitch in to help lay the halfling to rest.
Once the party is moving Lanliss expresses his concern about what happens if the party runs out of spells.
The movement of the most recent swarms seems to backtrack the same path as the path that was indicated to lead to the druid Mhorvin. Ever alert for danger the party travels for over an hour, the trees grow progressively larger and the canopy of leaves thicker. If it were not for the occasional small shadow-stuff touched animal it would be a pleasant walk in the woods.
The group passes a number of huge, old trees. Some of the trees are dead and covered in moss and fungus. Eventually, they reach a dark clearing, and it is clear from an occasional dead animal that the swarms came through this area. The clearing is surrounded by large trees, none of which look very healthy. Several are dead. In the middle of the clearing is a large, stone slab. There is a lumpy, lit candle illuminating the center of the slab. All is silent.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) d20+23=39 ; d20+16=23 ; d20+23=43 ; Wednesday October 11th, 2017 7:38:43 PM
well lanliss, not running out of spells would be ideal, but should that happen, then falling back and resting and rememorizing would be necessary.
Hmmm. This is interesting. A Druid place or something opposite to that with the dead trees? (know arcane 39, religion 23, spellcraft 43). Let us remain out of the clearing for a few moments of investigation. The silence too, tells a tale. This place is shunned by the forest creatures, and the great trees have fallen to the dark effects.
V casts detect magic and shares the result with the group.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+6=17 ; d20+23=27 ; d20+15=21 ; Wednesday October 11th, 2017 8:08:10 PM
Agreeing with V, Brom draws his sword and crouches down while he surveys the scene for clues. The place didn't feel right to Brom.
"Do you have any way to detect the shadowstuff?" He says in a low voice. "You guys said the shadowstuff could be used in some sort of spell. What would that do to a person?" He says directing his question at the spellcasters, again, in a low voice.
Knowledge Nature DC 17, Perception DC 27, Survival DC 21
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet d20+6=9 ; Wednesday October 11th, 2017 9:36:43 PM
Barratore moves up behind Brom. "I could see if there is a trap laid in the area. I am excellent at discovering them". He says with a slight grin. Barratore dons his shield and surveys the clearing. He sees little. Perception 9
He glances down at Brom and over at Edson, "See anything"
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Wednesday October 11th, 2017 11:47:33 PM "The Light does not approve of ominous clearings in dark woods." Baslim looks to Velarin to await the results of his observation.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 d20+26=32 ; Thursday October 12th, 2017 8:38:59 AM
Edson puts his hand up to the big minotaur. "Let me check Barry... don't need you bringing on the coming of the end or something." The elf looks around for any traps.
Trapfinding 32
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. d20+20=24 ; Thursday October 12th, 2017 10:51:12 AM
(sorry for missing post last night, passed out early)
Emrys wonders if the death of these trees was pre-existing or from the corruption of the shadow element. He first observes the ground around the base of the trees ... if these tree's died recently their leaves would be scattered across the ground in mass or still drooping from the branches (Perception: 24).
"This is the stuff of the Shadow Realm ... it does not belong here in the Living Wold."
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. Thursday October 12th, 2017 10:54:28 AM
(Please excuse my poor grammar, I should learn to proofread before I hit the submit button. Secondly, how long has it been since the last combat? Is Hide from Undead spell still active? Its duration was 140 minutes.)
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork d20+18=22 ; Thursday October 12th, 2017 3:17:36 PM Brom draws his sword and surveys the scene from a distance, questioning the casters about the shadow-stuff while Barratore arms himself behind him. Brom Highlight to display spoiler: { you don’t see any threats but there are a few less leaves under a few of the trees and almost none under the tree with the candle. }
Shepherd expressing displeasure with the shadow-stuff in the forest while Edson checks the area for traps.
Emrys’s examination of the area doesn’t show much unusual about the death of the trees. Emrys Highlight to display spoiler: { There are a few living trees that seem to have no leaves dropped around them but the dead tress seem natural. The tree with the candle has no dropped leaves at all around it. }
Velarin examines the area remains on the edge of the clearing and casts detect magic while examine what can be seen. He senses a very slight aura of magic from the area of the clearing. With some time you can tell that one source is the tree but there is something else as well.
The party is still out of the clearing, watching a burning candle on a rock. The forest waits making the noises a forest normally makes. An animal moves someplace. A seed from maple drifts down in front of the group. Back where you just battled the swarms the first worm finds the body of the halfling and wordlessly thanks the party for the meal.
{ooc: read nothing into that worm thing just harmless flavor} {ooc: About two hours since the start of the last combat including burying the body.}
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 Thursday October 12th, 2017 3:35:52 PM
Ooc: Edson found any traps?
Edson continues to look around. He moves back to the others. " I don't see anything, but this is real weird."
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Thursday October 12th, 2017 7:34:20 PM
A slight aura of magic from the tree under the candle...but something else as well. something fleeting. This does not feel right. If people were effected by the shadow stuff, then they would likely react in the same way. Perhaps this druid has been corrupted, but perhaps not. (Nothing on all the knowledge checks last round?) (know arcane 39, religion 23, spellcraft 43)
Perhaps one of our clerics would be so kind as to detect evil? That may shed some light on the matter. Should we find nothing there, then I might suggest one of us using a true seeing spell to really see what is here. Beyond that, would be sending in the recon force.
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 d20+17=36 ; Thursday October 12th, 2017 8:09:13 PM
Anyone noticed something ? Lanliss asks. I feel it's too quiet as if it's normal, apart from the fact it's not, he adds.
Standing Brom begins to move into the clearing, while keeping his eyes peeled for danger, being more cautious than normal. A flesh and blood opponent didn't bother him. Those opponents he was familiar with, but the shadow infused creatures and the eerie darkness that covered the forest was unknown to him. He couldn't cut it with a sword or strike it with a fist. So, to the barbarian it was a little unnerving. His sword raises instinctively as he moves in taking deliberate steps as he goes.
Perception DC 32, Survival DC 22, KS Nature DC 20
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet d20+7=27 ; Thursday October 12th, 2017 9:56:46 PM
Barratore moves into the clearing, to Broms left about 15' away from the man. Barratore, almost absently, pulls his blade slowly as he walks into the clearing. His head methodically sweeps from right to left, but his concentration is being willed to the sounds about him.
Perception 27
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Friday October 13th, 2017 12:09:26 AM
ooc: Thursday post. Fell asleep on the couch.
"My common sense is tingling. Anyone detect anything?"
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. Friday October 13th, 2017 9:09:28 AM
Emrys tries to shed a little light on the situation. "What's the one thing that keeps shadow at bay ... light. Maybe this candle is providing such a ward."
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. d20+25=43 ; d20+26=38 ; Friday October 13th, 2017 1:25:47 PM
Emrys will also cast his own Detect Magic and looks to see what he can divine. Mainly concentrating in the iandle's area, once he spots an aura, he will determine its school and hopefully its effect. If nothing there, he will widen his search.
(Knowledge [Arcana]: 43, Spellcraft: 38)
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. Friday October 13th, 2017 1:27:53 PM
(I meant to say, "in the candle's area. Once he spots....")
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Friday October 13th, 2017 2:28:49 PM Edson found no traps and continues to find none.
Velarin explains what information he has come up with to the group. He suggest a detect evil spell as well.
Lanliss continues to look around and notices a few things Highlight to display spoiler: { There are a few living trees that seem to have no leaves dropped around them but the dead tress seem natural. The tree with the candle has no dropped leaves at all around it. }
Brom and Barratore move into the clearing as Edson presents another theory on the area.
As the two martial characters move into the clearing the tree transforms into a halfling who addresses the group. He wears mostly green and a deep red under his finely made wooden breastplate. An ornate bow is in his hands with an arrow already notched. At the same time a rustling can be heard in a couple of trees, maybe something moving between them? Maybe something else. Perception 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { You are sure that something moved in those trees but cannot tell what. } Perception 35 Highlight to display spoiler: { At least three trees appear to have moved when the halfling appeared. Those trees seem a bit off in color too. }
“Two legged fire-starters you have no business here. This land is under my protection and I speak for it. What is your business and why do you burn our trees so?”
He levels the bow at Brom. “I will not have interference, explain yourselves and be gone.”
Map updated
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+23=40 ; d20+1=4 ; d20+1=17 ; Friday October 13th, 2017 10:19:37 PM
Brom scans the forest and sees things he doesn't like. He lowers his weapon before saying. "If I'm gonna be gone, I don't need ta explain anything." He points out the trees he sees moving. "Looks like some treefolk," he says referring to the moving trees, "Are affected by the shadowstuff." He now turns back to the halfling, "Now if ya like something more than a screw you. You can lower your bow and we'll have a discussion. We'll talk 'bout the fire, our reasons, and other things. I think I even got a bottle of booze from Merrydale I picked up couple weeks ago. Names Brom, so, what ya say?" He says raising his WLA badge from under his armor as a gesture of good faith.
Perception DC 40, Diplomacy DC 4 (hero point- DC 17) (wow Brom really sucks at being nice)
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet d20+7=17 ; Saturday October 14th, 2017 12:15:40 AM
Brom is so polite....Barratore levels his blade back at the halfling in response. His eyes move to the trees, in case things get interesting Perception 17 Barratore does offer more than Brom however, "We are the Keepers of the Vale and are pursuing an infection from the Shadowlands". The fighter keeps his weapon ready and shield up.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. d20+18=26 ; d20+18=34 ; Saturday October 14th, 2017 5:21:28 PM
(Perception: 26)
"Two-legged fire-starters!?" Emrys says questioningly as he strolls forward with an easy, cat-like grace, stopping just short of Brom and Barratore. "Hardly!" He taps the ground with his mystical walking stick and it immediately roots itself to stand freely on its own, next to his master.
Emrys holds up both of his hands, in a nonthreatening matter. His hands naturally have a slight wood-grain appearance, but instantly grow rough, hard and wooden with thorns sprouting from the tips of his fingers and various joints (Wooden Fists ability - free action). "Why would I harm those with whom I have a kinship?" His hands immediately return to normal.
(Diplomacy: 34)
"Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Emrys Myrridanmyl ... Younger Lord of Culverheart, High Elder of the Slitherine Root .. and yes, a fellow Keeper of the Vale." Emrys gives a short bow before retaking his walking stick, which immediately uproots itself as soon as Emrys takes hold. Looking toward the trees where he noticed movement. "Please, come out from where you hide ... we meant no harm. It is about time we finally met."
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. Saturday October 14th, 2017 6:12:40 PM
(Again with the lack proofreading, sigh! I meant to say, "nonthreatening manner".)
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Saturday October 14th, 2017 7:23:46 PM
V waits for the others to do there thing.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Sunday October 15th, 2017 9:33:05 PM
ooc: Friday post.
Baslim remains quiet, but holds up a glowing white hand to indicate he is a Healer.
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 d20+17=37 ; Monday October 16th, 2017 1:24:58 PM
Lanliss takes a mental note of the candle. Lanliss and then proceeds to be quiet and watch the surroundings.
Perception 37
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork d20+20=38 ; Monday October 16th, 2017 2:20:12 PM
After the halflings rather abrupt greeting the party reacts.
Brom , noticing the moving trees, lowers his weapons and mentions that they may be affected by the shadow stuff which causes the druid to bristle and even the offer of alcohol doesn’t appear to appease him. ROLL OPPOSED STEALTH
Barratore levels his blade at the halfling while Brom speaks. He talks of an infection which the druid would assume is the same as the shadow-stuff mentioned before.
Emrys adopts a non-hostile stance, showing that he shares a bond with plant creatures while Shepherd attempts to show he is a healer. Vekarin waits to see how things play out.
Mhorvin listens to Brom and Emrys but at Barratore’s description of the shadow-stuff as an infection bristles again. “Who are you to say they are ‘infected’ they are improved and have every right to be in my woods.” he gestures over his shoulder before re-notching his bow “Show yourselves my friends. I believe these who have already started fires may think they will be allowed to cause harm to our next step.”
With that three Shadow Trenant reveal themselves at the edge of the clearing and Brom hears what he is sure is a smaller creature hidden, possible invisible, in a tree next to the party. {ooc: Brom your 40 Perception spared the party a surprise roudn}
Moving to Combat Rounds – Map is updated.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 13d6+6=54 ; Monday October 16th, 2017 6:47:38 PM
Alright boys. looks like it's gonna be a fight. Unless someone has something better, I will call it for now. Brom and Barratore, take a tree to the left and to the right, and SMASH!! Spellcasters, let's take out the messed up druid before he causes more harm. Everyone else, kill something.
V will hit the druid with a chain lightning. reflex save 25 for half damage for druid, all treants within 30' of druid, reflex save 23 for half. Damage 54
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. rituals: ward, sharing. Monday October 16th, 2017 8:07:38 PM "You foul, depraved little man ... you cultivate this corruption ... BLASPHEMY!"
Emrys is beyond infuriated by this. An anger not before seen by many ... not even his own friends. For some reason, this druid has just drawn the eldritch fire that burns within his soul. Emrys moves forward (to Q-18) with his rod of the Quickening in hand. Seeming unconcerned by the lumbering treants.
Emrys casts a quickened Surrender Blood spell. A translucent dagger appears in his hand and he then slices its blade across a wrist. The blade disappears (flavor text)! He becomes quite pale as he just sacrificed a portion of his own life to fuel his next spell.
The Bloodwitch then opens his mouth and begins to inhale! A stream of visible air begins to siphon from the druid's mouth. The halfling's chest retracts as the air in his lungs empty into Emrys' gaping maw.
(Casting Suffocation, empowered by Focused Curse and Surrender Blood, targeting the druid halfling. Range: 60-ft. Fort Save: 32. If he Saves or Fails, he immediately becomes Staggered and gasps for breath. By the 2nd round, he falls unconscious and is reduced to 0 hit points. One round later, the target drops to -1 hit points and is dying. One round after that, the target dies. Each round, the target can delay that round’s effects from occurring by making a successful Fortitude save, but the spell continues for 3 rounds, and each time a target fails his Fortitude save, he moves one step further along the track to suffocation.)
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Monday October 16th, 2017 10:59:56 PM
"Left, but there are more opponents to face to the right". Barratore complains, half heartedly. Emrys just then casts a spell so mighty, it makes his knees buckle. Whatever his friend had or was becoming, had been given truly fantastic and frightening powers. For now, Emrys was on the right side, but power like that always seemed to cause problems in the long run.
Barratore refocuses himself at the task before him, destroying a tree. With that thought he enlarges himself and waits. The now Huge Minotaur can reach just as far as the trees and when they approach he will step in and attack
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+23=37 ; 6d6+31=49 ; d20+23=40 ; d20+6=16 ; Monday October 16th, 2017 11:17:44 PM
Noticing the small creature in the tree, Brom calls out "Somethin's in the tree!." Calling out the small creature's location before moving to engage the shadow treant.
Brom moves in on the treant, moving to V16, and swinging with a mighty blow his BAS.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Monday October 16th, 2017 11:54:02 PM "Foul servants of the darkness. You will not prevail." Baslim casts a spell, summoning a wall of stone behind the halfling to cut him off from his allies.
ooc: Cast wall of stone. Just behind Mhorvin and running left-to-right. 10 feet tall and 70 feet across.
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork d20+13=15 ; d20+13=16 ; d20+5=21 ; 10d6=40 ; 10d20+19=141 ; d20+19=23 ; d20+19=20 ; Tuesday October 17th, 2017 3:45:43 PM
Thinking fast Velarin issues some commands and then unleashes electrical hell on the diminutive druid Mhorvin {Save: 15}. The lighting strikes and ricochets backwards and catches the lumbering yellowTreants as well {Save: 21}.
Barratore thinks the timeless magic words "inuk chuk" and grows in size to match the Treants. {ooc: Sorry for the super friends reference}
Brom steps up in the path of a blue treant and takes a mighty swing drawing sap and snapping off some smaller branches. Brom perception Highlight to display spoiler: { Brom you can see that your hit did full damage but that V’s lighting did not }
In an attempt to isolate and destroy separately Shepherd causes a massive wall of stone to rise form the ground blocking one of the living trees.
Finally Emrys rage boils over and he summons a new and terrible power taking the very breath of life from a very surprised halfling. {Save: 21} Mhorvin’s eyes first go wide and then bulge and then roll back as he falls unconscious, clearly about to die.
As the druid falls another crashing sound can be heard off to the East. Crashing of branches but it cannot be seen and you may have other issues at present.
Red Treant steps forward towards his now larger foe.
Yellow Treant Starts to move to go around the surprising wall of stone. {ooc: double move | made the wall equidistant each direction}
Blue Treant holds it ground after being chopped at and strikes back at Brom but misses with both of its attacks.
Finally a huge tree creature appears out of nowhere {invisibility} and blows a cone of smoke that encompasses Emrys and Shepherd {ooc: Blow Smoke (Su) DC(20) Smoke constantly drifts from a XXXXXX mouth, and as a standard action it can exhale a 30-foot cone of smoke. Any creature in the area must succeed at a DC 20 Fortitude save or be nauseated for 1 round. This is a poison effect, and the save DC is Constitution-based}
{ooc: Full disclosure I had a brain fart on one of these creature. I was sure that the last thing to appear this round was a small creature and could not have been more wrong. It is HUGE but it was still invisible so no actual harm. The perception check would have still detected something unseen.}
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) d20+19=32 ; 10d6=33 ; Tuesday October 17th, 2017 4:40:18 PM
V looks up as the massive tree appears next to him. "Oh, that's not good. Looks like it's necessary to relocate in order to prevent my sudden and painful demise."
V will attempt to drop an empowered fireball 10' above the head of the Huge Treant next to him. If for some reason he can't see that, he will put it 10' behind him. V will do this defensively(DC 25, rolled 32, success(correction. actually a 31)) and then move to Z 25, avoiding the edge of the smoke cloud and it's effects.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 d20+20=38 ; d20+15=33 ; d8+2=7 ; d8+2=8 ; Tuesday October 17th, 2017 7:13:14 PM
Edson was so taken back by the giant creature appearing, his feet didn't move like his brain intended. Instead he fires two arrows at the giant tree thing before him.
Hit a.c. 38 7 dmg Hit a.c. 33 8 dmg
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. rituals: ward, sharing. d20+15=18 ; d20+15=28 ; d20+15=33 ; d8+15=16 ; d20+15=29 ; d8+15=16 ; d20+9=17 ; d6+9=10 ; Tuesday October 17th, 2017 10:42:21 PM
(Emrys moved to Q-18 during the last round. Not in the smoke area. However if you'd still like a Fort Save, it's an 18, then rerolled with a hero point to 28. Let me know if I had to or not.)
The grim satisfaction he feels as the druid falls to the ground doesn't last for long. Emrys turns in surprise as a new giant appears on the grove of battle. Surprised by his failure to notice such a massive, invisible creature. Smokers are usually easy to smell, especially one at that size.
Emrys steps back (to S-18) and raises his wooden and thorn-covered hands as he begins to cast again.
"I invoke the Blessed Root of all Power! Let loose your guardians and SMITE this corruption! GO RAIBH AMHLAAIDH!"
(Casting Animate Plants. Range: 65-ft. Targets: Two Huge Trees and One Large Tree within range. Duration: 17 rounds. The two huge trees, either side of the Smoking Plant Creature, begin their attack. One large tree steps into the clearing and attacks the Red Treant. The stats used for these animated plants (trees) is the same as standard Animated Objects of the same size.)
The wooden limbs of two huge trees, either side of the smoking behemoth, grind and creak as they suddenly animate and slam their massive branches into the smoking, plant creature. A large, uproot tree enters the clearing and attacks the treant in front of Barratore.
(Huge Tree1 attacks SPC, Hit AC: 33, Damage: 16. Huge Tree2 attacks SPC, Hit AC: 29, Damage: 16. Large Tree attacks Red Treant, Hit AC: 17, Damage: 10. How did I roll 1's on all my damage rolls??!!)
------------------------------------------ Huge Tree1: AC 15, HP 78. Huge Tree2: AC 15, HP 78. Large Tree: AC 14, HP 52.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 d20+17=29 ; 13d6=46 ; Tuesday October 17th, 2017 11:04:25 PM
ooc: Fortitude check 29
Baslim is undaunted by the foul smoke of the plant creature. He holds a hand aloft, burning brightly with white fire, and strides toward the treant (10 feet west).
"Minion of the dark! You shall feel the wrath of the righteous!" He holds up both hands and shouts, "The Light smite you!" A column of white fire descends onto the treant.
ooc: Cast flamestrike. 23 fire damage, 23 holy damage. Reflex DC 24 for half damage.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+23=43 ; d20+18=20 ; d20+13=19 ; 2d6+31=39 ; 2d6+31=38 ; 2d6+31=35 ; d20+23=26 ; Tuesday October 17th, 2017 11:16:40 PM
"V, the lightning doesn't work on these things." He says. Hearing inuk chuk coming from Barratore and knows he is calling on the ancient minotaur words meaning Big Man.
Dodging his own opponent, Brom retaliates against the shadow treant.
Attack (Rage, PA): AC 43 (I don't think you can crit), 20, 19; damage 39, 38, 35 slashing weapon
Perception DC 26
Rage: 2/30
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet d20+24=38 ; d20+19=39 ; d20+19=37 ; d20+14=26 ; 2d8+21=32 ; 2d8+21=29 ; 2d8+21=32 ; 2d8+21=32 ; Tuesday October 17th, 2017 11:43:35 PM
Barratore can't help but grin a bit as the huge tree appears near him. Magic and weapons engage it from his friends and he too unleashes upon it. PA hit AC 38/39 crit 37/26. Dmg 32/29+32/32. Penetrating strike ignores 5 DR
If any strike puts it down, Barratore strikes at the red treant at LM/1617
Barratore is HUGE space 15x15 with 15 reach. He is currently only Large on the map
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 d20+20=23 ; Wednesday October 18th, 2017 12:09:05 PM
Lanliss moves forward while trying to find cover from the mess. Just need to find a good flanking point he tells himself while trying move stealthy.
Lanliss moves to W19 Stealth 23
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork d20+9=20 ; d20+9=14 ; d20+19=33 ; d20+19=24 ; d20+19=38 ; d20+19=37 ; 2d6+11=16 ; 2d6+11=21 ; Wednesday October 18th, 2017 4:14:09 PM Velarin decides it best to move away form the large combatant but first drops an empowered fireball behind the new arrival to the fight. The large tree fails to get out of the way and takes the brunt of the blast on its back. Shepherd
Edson reacts as best he can to the surprise appearance of an invisible tree monster and launches two arrows. Both sink into the wood but do not appear to damage its shadow-affected body.
Emrys summons forth the power to animate two nearby trees which attack the new arrival as well., fighting wood with wood, which attack the new visible tree. One of the trees hits for minimal damage.
Brom hacks again at the tree in front of him {blue} but only one of his hits lands, causing additional damage.
Shepherd continues to light up the new arrival which again take the full brunt of some holy fire.
Barratore ends the creatures existence with the first swing of his bastard sword and then follows though striking the next closest Treant.
Lanliss advances as quietly as he can, looking for a good spot.
The previously trapped {yellow} Treant advances around the wall toward Barratore. While the {red} Treant attacks him a second time but both its attacks fail to connect in a meaningful way.
The other Treant {blue} swings at Brom with two attacks both hitting for 16 and 21 points of damage.
Finally, after the sound of more crashing branches, a final Treant {pink}, this one with flashes of lightning covering its surface, comes into visual range and advances.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (182/207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+23=40 ; d20+18=24 ; d20+13=27 ; 2d6+31=37 ; 2d6+31=37 ; 2d6+31=35 ; d20+23=34 ; Wednesday October 18th, 2017 5:13:42 PM
Brom notes the new treants. He will deal with it momentarily. For now he continues felling the tree he's on.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. rituals: ward, sharing. d20+9=26 ; d6+9=11 ; d6=2 ; d6=5 ; Wednesday October 18th, 2017 11:27:51 PM
(Ryan, thanks for fixing the map :)
Daemon confides in Emrys, "There iss NO wayss I'm biting a treess!"
"Maybe you won't have to!"
Emrys forcefully holds out his hand to the two huge animated trees. They immediately stand in attention, now with nothing to slam since the smoking plant creature was felled. Emrys then redirected all three trees to a new victim ... the yellow treant.
(Animated Plants: Move Action to redirect the animated plants to a new target. Movement speed: 30ft)
The two Huge Trees begin to move around the southern side of Barratore and the red treant as they make their way to the yellow treant. (This will probably take a double move).
The third Large Tree, that was already in combat with the red treant, now switches its attention to the yellow treant. It slams its mighty branches into the yellow treant, (Attacking Yellow Treant. Hit AC: 26. Damage: 11.)
Emrys then casts another one of his Focused Curses ... this time he targets both the red and yellow treants. Both of the wooden giants sudden feel their bodies wracked with terrible pain. A pain so exquisite that it harms and sickens them.
(Casting Mass Pain Strike, empowered by Focused Curse. Range: 60-ft. Targets: one living creature/level, no two more than 30 ft. apart. Fort Save: 29. On a failed save, they each suffer 1d6 nonlethal damage per round and become Sickened each round for the next 14 rounds. Red Treant damage: 2 nonlethal. Yellow Treant damage: 5 nonlethal.)
(Sickened Condition: –2 penalty on all attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks.) ---------------------
Huge Tree1: AC 15, HP 78. Hardness: 5 Huge Tree2: AC 15, HP 78. Hardness: 5 Large Tree: AC 14, HP 52.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 5d8=21 ; Wednesday October 18th, 2017 11:37:45 PM
Baslim moves to cover behind Barratore (S21) and points at the two treants menacing him. "The Light smite you as well! And you!"
ooc: Cast holy smite centered between Red and Yellow, 20' burst catches both of them. 21 holy damage, blinded for 1 round. A successful Will DC 23 saving throw reduces damage to half and negates the blinded effect.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet d20+24=27 ; d20+19=21 ; d20+14=18 ; d20=11 ; 2d8+24=31 ; 2d8+24=30 ; 2d8+24=35 ; Thursday October 19th, 2017 1:51:18 AM
Barratore begins humming and then singing to himself as he lays into the red treant, " I'm a lumberjack and I'm ok I sleep all night and work all day..."
Hit AC 27/21/18. Dmg 31/30/35
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 80/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Thursday October 19th, 2017 8:34:09 AM
With none of the party appearing to be in danger of death, V decides to reserve his remaining fire spells for now. Since it appears that fire is one of the few of his magics that fully effect the shadow things, saving some would be a good idea.
Instead, V moves to R20, and casts haste upon Emrys, effecting all the good guys within 30' of Emrys
Haste: Duration, 13 rounds, extra attack when making full attack, +1 to hit, +1 dodge bonus to AC and reflex saves, move increases 30' up to double normal speed.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 d20+20=28 ; d20+15=28 ; d8+2=8 ; d8+2=5 ; Thursday October 19th, 2017 12:00:54 PM
Annoyed his magical arrows had no effect, the elf rogue tries again on the huge tree creature.
Hit ac 28 8 dmg Hit ac 28 t dmg
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork d20+11=25 ; d20+11=19 ; d20+19=33 ; d20+19=28 ; 2d6+11=16 ; 2d6+11=20 ; d20+15=18 ; 11d6=39 ; Thursday October 19th, 2017 2:09:03 PM
{ooc: Think I got it all in there}
Brom continues to lash out with his blade, scoring two hits which reduce the {blue} Treant to a stump and woodchips.
Barratore begins a jaunty tune as he swings at the {red} Treant. Possible he was distracted by his own singing as only one blow lands.
Shepherd summons more divine power and smites the trees, attempting to hit both {red} and {yellow} Treant. {ooc: Red rolled 25: Saves | Yellow rolled 19: failed}
Emrys directs his animated trees at the {yellow} Treant. The two smaller advances on the Treant while the largest turns and attacks hitting with its branches.
Next Emrys casts mass pain strike {ooc: Both fail their save} causing damage and sickening the already shadow affected trees.
Ebson fires two more arrows at the {red} Treant causing just enough damage to end its life. Ebson Highlight to display spoiler: { I missed that they came from a +2 bow. As I am new to this group it would help if that was in the post Also are there magic arrows in play I have not seen noted? }
Finally, for the party Velarin and casts Haste on the party {13/13 rounds}.
The surrounded {yellow} Treant contines to fight but can only attack Emrys animated trees with two powerful swings of its branches {To Hit E1: 33 / 28 | Damage: 16 / 20}.
The final Treant, still appearing to be bathed in lightning, advances and casts Chain Lightning with the bolt traveling from Lanliss to Brom to Edson to Velarin to Edson finally ending at Shepherd . {ooc: 39 Damage DC18 Reflex Lanliss | DC16 the rest}
[ooc: Thanks for letting me know when I miss stuff folks. This is a pretty complex fight.} {ooc: Lets see if you guys, with the help of Haste, can mop this up before the weekend.}
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (143/207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+9=10 ; d20+23=43 ; d20+23=33 ; d20+23=33 ; 6d6+31=53 ; 2d6+31=39 ; d20+1=19 ; Thursday October 19th, 2017 2:40:22 PM
Brom is caught off-guard by the flash of lightning, Reflex save DC 10. In retaliation for the attack, he move over to X18 and unleashes on lightning treant.
He also begins to sing a battle song as he fights. Perform DC 19.
Attack (Imp Vital Strike, Rage, PA): AC 43 (crit AC 33); damage 53 (53+39=92 if crit) slashing weapon
Perception DC 33
Rage: 4/30
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 61/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) d20+14=30 ; Thursday October 19th, 2017 7:07:31 PM
Velarin grunts as the lightning passes through him(save, 30 reflex). "So that's what that feels like. No sir, don't like it."
V then moves to U10, removing himself from combat as best he can, and waits for his friends to mop things up. Encouraged by Brom and Barratore's song and dance show, he decides to chime in as well. "Just keep swinging, just keep swinging, swing the sword and cut a cord, but just keep swinging, just keep swinging."
Lanliss feels the lighting jolts and shouts, he Proceeds to attack the enemy nearby (Moves to Z20 I believe) Take This he shouts and attacks with his short sword.
Reflex 14 (13+1 haste)
Attack Roll 18 (14+1 haste) Damage 4
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 25/65 d20+13=30 ; d20+13=32 ; d20+19=24 ; d20+19=32 ; d20+14=21 ; d8+2=3 ; d8+2=8 ; d8+2=7 ; Thursday October 19th, 2017 9:19:04 PM
Edson is partially hit by both bolts. His skin is singed but he continues the fight.
Aided by the haste, Edson Unleashes on the treant.
Hit ac 24 3 dmg Hit ac 21 7 dmg Hasted hit ac 32 8 dmg
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet d20+26=44 ; 6d8+24=60 ; Thursday October 19th, 2017 10:00:02 PM
Barratore moves to his right, coming right in behind Lanlis and within his reach of the Lightning tree
PA vital strike hit AC 44 Dmg 60
Haste Enlarge
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. rituals: ward, sharing. d20+17=25 ; d6+15=19 ; d20+17=23 ; d8+15=16 ; d20+11=21 ; d6+9=14 ; d6=5 ; Thursday October 19th, 2017 10:49:21 PM
"Daemon, my dear friend, it's time to end this. Let this be a lesson to you on the value of sacrifice."
"Uhhh! Whatss ... whos are you ssacrificing," the viper nervously asks?
"Myself," Emrys replies.
He begins to speak a few dark, necromantic words of power. His smile becomes especially wicked as his eyes turn to a thick, murky blackness. Tears of dark ichor begin to roll down his face. Oddly enough, the eyes of the remaining treants are doing the same. Like Emrys, the remaining enemy combatants are blind!
(Casting Living Voodoo Doll ...bloodwitch spell. No Save! Range: 240-ft. Duration: 14 rounds (D). Targets: Yellow and Pink Treants. They are both Blind, along with Emrys.)
The animated Large Tree gets beaten down and splintered, but it remains up and fighting. All three animated Trees begin to pummel the yellow treant.
(Huge Tree1 attacks Yellow Treant. Hit AC: 25. Damage: 21.) (Huge Tree2 attacks Yellow Treant. Hit AC: 23. Damage: 16.) (Large Tree attacks Yellow Treant. Hit AC: 21. Damage: 14.)
"Daemon, you'll need to be my eyes for now. What's happening?"
"Your treess are playing 'Whack-A-Gnoll' with the big, walking sstick!"
-----------------------
E3 Huge Tree1: AC 15, HP 78. Hardness: 5 E2 Huge Tree2: AC 15, HP 78. Hardness: 5 E1 Large Tree: AC 14, HP 16/52.
(Pain Strike: Yellow Treant takes 5 more nonlethal damage and remains to be Sickened.)
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 d20+9=23 ; 5d8=17 ; Thursday October 19th, 2017 10:57:17 PM
Baslim takes a nasty blow from the lightning, but you can see the charred and smoking wound already beginning to knit together. "The Light burn you!" He points at the treant not surrounded by summoned minions.
ooc: Cast holy smite on Pink. 17 holy damage, blinded for 1 round. A successful Will DC 23 saving throw reduces damage to half and negates the blinded effect.
HP 105/143 (fast healing 1)
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Friday October 20th, 2017 11:03:41 AM
Armor still warm form the blast of lighting Brom shifts position and retaliates against the Lightning Trenant as he also starts singing. His stroke is mighty and cleavles a large branch straight off of the creature. {ooc: confirmed crit big damage}
Velarin does not enjoy turnabout and retreats away form the Lighting Treant, joining the others in song.
Lanliss also feels the lightnings sting and relocates, swinging with his sword but missing.
Edson unleashes three arrows but only connects with two after being shocked.
Barratore also switches to the Lightning Treant and attacks with a might swing cleaving the giant tree in twain.
Emrys blinds the remaining tree which makes it just easy enough to hit that his animated trees and Shepherd’s holy power can finish the final enemy.
The forest falls silent littered with dead Treants and a blue tinged halfling who’s story will probably never be known.
{ooc: well I just learned a lot about building encounters for you guys!}
Combat Over 15,000 XP Each
An additional email will be coming either today or tomorrow with important information.
Edson d20+19=31 ; Friday October 20th, 2017 1:06:41 PM
" E. You ok?" The elf asks. " That's not permanent" he finishes as he notes the witches eyes.
After being assuref Emrys is ok, he walks off and searches the dead and area in general.
Perception 31
Ooc: fixing header
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. rituals: ward, sharing. Friday October 20th, 2017 4:11:20 PM
"Oh, is it over? Then yes, I am fine," he says answering Edson. Emrys speaks a few words of dismissal and his eyes begin to clear back up. Taking out an handkerchief, he begins to wipe his face clean from the black ichor. "Not to worry, I can see again."
The snake whispers, "Uhh, you misssed a sspot."
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 61/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Friday October 20th, 2017 7:40:40 PM
"Well. That was...fun. At least Brom and Barratore got to kill something. Shall we search the halfling and trees and take a look around the area?
V moves over to the halflings body and casts detect magic
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 42/57. rituals: ward, sharing. Friday October 20th, 2017 9:02:46 PM
"I first want to apologize for my behavior ... I was a bit rash. I let my anger get the best of me. There is just something unforgivable about betraying your own nature."
Emrys motions to the three trees to return to their plots. They lumber back to their plots of earth to replant themselves.
He strolls over to the fallen druid. "It's a pity, but it had to be done. What kind of caretaker would I be if I allowed weeds to grow in the garden."
He reaches down and gently closes the hobbit's eyes.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet d20=14 ; Saturday October 21st, 2017 12:32:30 AM
Barratore returns to his normal size and looks over his friends. He moves over to Emrys and puts a hand on his shoulder. The big Minotaur does not look down or otherwise engage, but gives a slight squeeze and moves to inspect one of the treants for treasure or clues Perception 21
"Do you think he was the cause?" Barratore asks the group at large as he looks about the Huge now felled treant
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (143/207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+23=38 ; Saturday October 21st, 2017 11:51:16 PM I thought I had anger issues. Thinks Brom.
He walks over to the halfling. "Don't think we're gonna know." He says responding to Barratore. "It happens." He says to Emrys before moving off to aid Barratore.
"Maybe he had a journal or notes or something we can use."
Perception DC 38
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 61/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Sunday October 22nd, 2017 8:51:52 PM
(OOC: character sheet updated per email.)
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 61/80, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Sunday October 22nd, 2017 8:53:18 PM
(Correction. Updated now. Forgot to put HP in)
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 88/88, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Sunday October 22nd, 2017 8:54:17 PM
(last time)
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 27/57. rituals: ward, sharing. d20+14=16 ; d20+18=22 ; d20+17=18 ; d20+17=35 ; Sunday October 22nd, 2017 11:04:36 PM
Emrys waits to see if anything can be found to identify the halfling before he considers casting a divination or two. He tries to recall how the halfling acted, the words he said, how he said them and attempts to sense his motives postmortem. (Sense Motive: 16, sigh!)
He will also help with trying to find items on the halfling, like his bow and arrows, that might help identify him (Perception: 22, sigh!).
IF all else fails, Emrys sighs deeply, because he does not enjoy what he is about to do. Again, a spectral blade appears in his hand and it quickly vanishes as soon as he swipes it across his neck. It does no visible wound to Emrys, but he becomes pale from the loss of vitality.
(Casting Surrender Blood, deals -15 hp to Emrys, +3 to Caster level of next spell.)
Emrys then lays his hands on the hobbit and asks, "Who was this person and what where his plans with the shadow?" His eyes immediately turn white as the magic takes over. An expression of euphoria flashes across his face as he receives his vision.
(Casting Vision, empowered by Surrender Blood. Caster Level Check: 18, natural 1 !!!!!! I'm sick to death of this dice roller. Hero Point Reroll: 35.
Afterwards, the stress of the Vision causes Emrys to become fatigued.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 9d6=39 ; 9d6=20 ; 9d6=30 ; Sunday October 22nd, 2017 11:49:53 PM "Gather 'round, everyone. Feel the love of the Light." Baslim channels energy until everyone is completely healed.
ooc: Channel energy three times, 89 hp healed.
Baslim walks over and surveys the fallen foes. The treants get only a shake of his head, but the halfling merits and heavy sigh. "It is a shame to see a member of the Noble Races fall to darkness. His heart could not be swayed. We can search him for anything that will aid in our mission, then I will bury him."
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Monday October 23rd, 2017 6:11:29 AM
Lanliss gets close to Emrys after the ritual waiting to know what happened to the poor halfling. I just can't believe his doings, Lanliss says. Someone or something must have corrupted his soul or made him confused in some way. Halflings don't go the evil path very often.
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Monday October 23rd, 2017 2:19:14 PM Edson checks on Emrys condition after the battle but is reassured that the appearance changes were temporary and cosmetic.
Velarin congratulates Brom and Barratore on their rolls after the disappointment of fighting swarms as Emrys dismisses his ‘troops’.
Barratore [/b and [b Brom question if the druid was the cause of the shadow-stuff melding with forest life.
Shepherd gathers the team and heals them in mass.
The group examines the body of the halfling finding that he has amassed a sizable amount of gear in his life in the woods. Though searching and casting detect magic the group finds the following gear but sadly a great deal of it is small in size. You can also see that if not for Emrys action this could have been a difficult battle.
+1 shock ironwood longbow (small) +2 Ironwood Dagger (small) +1 Greater electric resistance ironwood breastplate (small) +4 Natural Armor Amulet Bracers of archery, greater Feather Token Wand of Owl's Wisdom Pearl of Power, 6th level Pearl of Power, 3rd level
You also discover that, while not fully shadow, the druids right hand and arm have begun to turn.
Emrys then attempts to find out more about the little halfling that he choked to death. He slashes himself again before casting a spell.
Emrys Highlight to display spoiler: { You feel your perspective shift and you see the halfling, dressed as you had seen him, tending a damaged tree and quickly thereafter hear the rumble of the volcano that brought you back into this plane. He watches objects growing closer despite the improbable distance and finally you can see that it is a large chunk of shadow-stuff.
The druid casts a spell and touches the very hot shadow stuff but it reacts oddly with his nature magic and a small amount sticks to his hand.
The druid has found a squirrel that has been infected by the shadow stuff and appears to be speaking with it. Somehow you know he has divined the creature is more then it was but also the same. It appears he sees nothing amiss. He looks at his hand and shadow is slowly spreading.
More creatures have been brought to the shadow-stuff by the druid.The druid stands by a treant that has been infected and is concerned about the change, he wants, no needs, to understand. It is also happening to him but very very slowly. }
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. Monday October 23rd, 2017 11:12:57 PM
With the vision having ended, Emrys finds himself heavily fatigued, covered in sweat and taking heavy breaths. After a short moment, he catches his breath and tells the druid's story.
"Oh what a horrible tragedy! He didn't willingly become evil ... the shadow infected him. He found a piece of the shadow the night the Glitterox erupted. He touched it, first with magic and then his hand ... it corrupted him ... changed him to this ... against his will! He was a good steward to this forest ... until shadow fell. This may only be the beginning!"
Baslim's healing energy washes over him like a warm breeze and the Bloodwitch is quite thankful, but it doesn't cure the sorrow he feels.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Monday October 23rd, 2017 11:47:30 PM "That is terrible to hear. Terrible, terrible. No one is so strong that they can risk dabbling in the dark. We must find these shards of darkness and destroy them."
ooc: I would like the amulet of NA or the pearl of power 6.
Edson Tuesday October 24th, 2017 8:45:54 AM
Edson picks and prods through everything. Piling it up so everyone has access. " if the amulet falls to me, I'll take it. Otherwise I am good."
Edson Tuesday October 24th, 2017 8:46:17 AM
Edson picks and prods through everything. Piling it up so everyone has access. " if the amulet falls to me, I'll take it. Otherwise I am good."
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Tuesday October 24th, 2017 10:28:49 AM
Barratore's brow furrows and he snorts loudly upon hearing what Emrys' spell revealed. "We know the Shadow Lord was working with someone and we know that ogre is involved as well. We should put our energies towards learning who and where they are and destroy them"
Barratore is not particularly interested in any of the magic items. The funds could be used to fuel the parties needs in a greater way than him wielding any of it.
"Are we at a dead end at the moment then about this Shadow stuff and the extent of the damage caused? can anyone cast a spell to learn about the woods and natural wold about us? We cannot let evil fester in the woods, else it will corrupt the land itself."
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (143/207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Tuesday October 24th, 2017 11:45:37 AM
Brom seconds Barratore's thought. "Also, is there anyway to cleanse the corruption? Direct light made the stuff disappear, would the same work on shadow infected plants and animals?"
"I'll take that necklace." He says.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 88/88, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Tuesday October 24th, 2017 12:54:48 PM
(ooc: I will pass on the items, preferring to save up some cash for the future.)
"There is much to learn still. Both swarms were in the daylight, as were parts of the treants, more than likely, so I believe it safe to say that exposing the infected to daylight will not remove the effect except perhaps with long term exposure or something similar."
"We don't know how many things are infected, or what happens to them in the long term, but it's likely there are more out here somewhere. If another like the halfling were to become infected, they could theoretically use the stone to infect others and create a shadow army. We need to know more. I have no spells able to locate the two fiends we seek, or learn more of the extent of this infection. Emrys, your powers appear to have changed. Is this something you can do? Shepherd?"
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Tuesday October 24th, 2017 5:03:52 PM Emrys reacts to the tale (in exactly the way the DM had hoped) and relays it to the group.
Barratore expresses concerns about the Shadow Lord and thinks they should delve deeper into the oger that was helping him.
Brom and Shepherd think about destroying the shards of darkness but looking at the treants they can see that as sun light strikes their dead bodies the shadow recedes. It could be assumed that, at least, the shadow-stuff here will be cleaned up by nature.
Brom, Shepherd and Edson express interest in the amulet and will have to come to an agreement. Shepherd is also interested in one of the magic pearls.
With many paths open the party is free to go where they will.
[ooc: Might be simplest to clean up loot in email. I hope you are all leveling your characters to 500,000xp.}
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (143/207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Tuesday October 24th, 2017 5:18:42 PM
ooc I missed Edson and Shephard wanting the amulet. Brom will pass on it.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 88/88, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Tuesday October 24th, 2017 8:40:28 PM
"I have no spells able to locate the two fiends we seek, or learn more of the extent of this infection. Emrys, your powers appear to have changed. Is this something you can do? Shepherd?"
"I suggest a pull back to the farm we visited before if we are able to look into things magically. If not, we should stay out here and get a feel for what else may go bump in the night. I will take an aerial overview of the area, and see if there is something worth investigating within sight."
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Tuesday October 24th, 2017 11:57:04 PM "If I can rest, I can prepare spells to help find them. As it is, I am prepared for smiting darkness, not finding darkness."
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. Wednesday October 25th, 2017 9:18:15 AM
(sorry, I fell asleep early last night)
"I have several powerful divinations. It should be possible to Scry the whereabouts of these fiends. The more information we have on them the better my chances. If I had my entire coven assisting me, it would improve our changes even more ... but that would require returning home. If we all agree, I can send us home with a simple Word (of Recall)."
Edson Wednesday October 25th, 2017 11:30:37 AM
" Its no big deal, if either of you want the amulet, take it. " Edson says.
The elf still scans around, looking for any more evidence of the shadow stuff.
Edson Wednesday October 25th, 2017 11:30:40 AM
" Its no big deal, if either of you want the amulet, take it. " Edson says.
The elf still scans around, looking for any more evidence of the shadow stuff.
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Wednesday October 25th, 2017 12:28:24 PM
We better go home, Lanliss agrees loudly. There might be more occurrences like this.
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Wednesday October 25th, 2017 3:27:31 PM Velarin suggest the group pull back to the farm.
Edson and Brom have second thouths on the amulet.
Edson looks for more shadow-stuff but does not find any and what was in the defeated beings seems to be dissipating when sunlight hits it.
Shepherd needs time to rest to prepare spells and Emrys would need his coven to peform strong divinations.
Lanliss is ready to go home.
As the group debates more and more of the shadow-stuff vanishes. If anything is moved into sunlight it slowly cleanses itself. The surrounding vegetation seems free of the blight.
No more of the shadowy animals are visible in the vicinity.
Having gathered what they can there seems to be three suggestions on where to go.
{ooc: not a GM stall. This is open world and no one suggestion seems to have gained a lot of momentum}
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. d20+17=25 ; Wednesday October 25th, 2017 4:56:45 PM
As a hole is being dug for the druid's grave, Emrys will place a special pine cone in his hands of the hobbit and offers a short prayer to the Powers of Culverwood. "May you become one with the Great Root."
He recalls from his Vision something he overlooked. "The druid spoke to a squirrel ... possibly his animal companion. I think it was infected too." He looks around to see if he can spot a squirrel intently watching them (Perception: 25). "We deeply regret your loss, little one," he says loudly in the general direction of the overgrowth. Emrys silently hopes the magical creature can understand what he had said.
Once everything is squared away, and if there is a consensus to return home ... he will gather everyone in close, instruct them to place a hand on each other and he will invoke the Word of Recall. They instantly teleport back to their Manor House.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Wednesday October 25th, 2017 5:33:44 PM
Brom digs a grave for the halfling. Once done he says a small prayer noting things like honor and valor and things Brom thinks are appropriate for a prayer.
Before Emrys teleports the group, he says. "Let's head back to the farmhouse first and make sure they don't have anymore bug problems. Since they're why we're out here."
As far as the amulet goes if Shephard and Edson end up passing on it, he will take it. Otherwise, he suggests one of them take it.
CDM Jerry Wednesday October 25th, 2017 6:14:43 PM
Michael, I have sent you an important email. Please read and reply sir. ;)
::waving at everyone::
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 88/88, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Wednesday October 25th, 2017 9:28:18 PM
I agree with Brom. Let us return to the farmhouse, and if all is well, then return home to begin more investigation into numerous matters.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Wednesday October 25th, 2017 10:23:07 PM
Barratore agrees as well. He says a few words of parting to the Druids grave and asks Imod to watch over his soul
Barratore heads back to the farmhouse. From there, they could poof home and Emrys could get to work.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Wednesday October 25th, 2017 10:44:56 PM
Baslim agrees on returning to the farmhouse. He is not pushy in trying to claim the amulet. The Light does not look favorably on greed or contention, but he would like it nonetheless if no one else has a claim.
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Thursday October 26th, 2017 3:49:00 PM Emrys calls for the squirrel and amazingly a small, naturally grey, squirrel pokes his head out. He chitters at Emrys and if a squirrel can sound happy it does. If it had been shadow-touched it seems to be better, or it may be a different squirrel.
Brom. Velarin, Barratore and Shepherd prefer to head to the farm house instead of using Word of Recall so that thought carries the day. After buying the body of the halfling they head back.
During your travels you do not see any more shadow-stuff infected animals of insects. Passing the sight of the second swarm battle you find the husks of the insects but can see the sun has done its work and they appear normal. Even normal if living they would have most likely attacked but in death they are at least not tainted with shadow-stuff.
The walk back to the farmhouse will take a few hours more than the day has left to give. You can push though or continue into the night.
Edson Thursday October 26th, 2017 6:38:01 PM
" lets push through. Nobody is gonna mess with us at this point. I mean.. look at us. Straight bad as..." the last word getting stuck in his throat as he trips on a stick."
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Thursday October 26th, 2017 6:45:45 PM
Lanliss will go with on foot with the rest of the group.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 88/88, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Thursday October 26th, 2017 7:42:43 PM
Agreed. Let us keep moving. There should be little out here to pose us a threat, and if there is something that can, than we need to know about it anyway.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Thursday October 26th, 2017 7:58:43 PM
Barratore laughs at the timing of Edsons statement and his trip. "The baddest Edson ". He replied easily
Barratore does not bother with a light everyone else has one
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+23=35 ; Thursday October 26th, 2017 8:54:02 PM
Brom agrees as well. He laughs at Edson's statement.
He moves through the forest with his torch out, leading the way.
Perception DC 35
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Thursday October 26th, 2017 11:13:52 PM "Onward! There is little wisdom in allowing the shadow the opportunity to strike during the night."
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. Friday October 27th, 2017 11:22:33 AM
Emrys thinks it an excellent idea to head back to the farm and check on the family. He leaves a little food for the squirrel before they depart. Who knows if this is the Druid's animal companion, it's the least he could do. Daemon looks at the squirrel with a different perspective, but he chooses not to anger his master. Besides he was still good for a few more days until he needed to eat again.
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Friday October 27th, 2017 1:39:30 PM
On the journey the woods sounds normal and there is no further sign of shadow-stuff infection. As the sun goes down the sounds of the forest change, you can hear the occasional owl or larger nocturnal creature move. Fortunately, probably mostly for them, they leave the group alone.
The group pushes though and arrives at the farm a couple of hours after dark. Across the field you see a fairly normal view of a farm at night. A slight waft of smoke rises from the chimney and you can see one small candle burning. Having been in the house you know there is a table by the window, most likely someone is still up.
As you approach you step on the husks of dead bugs, it would appear someone has moved them into a pile. Any examination can show that the shadow-taint is gone form the husks.
Approaching the building you can see movement and then the face of the little girl Leslie in the window. She smiles, and waves then puts her finger to her lips telling you to be quiet as she opens the door to let you in with a smile that gets wider when she see Velarin again.
“My parents are asleep upstairs. Should I wake them? I cleaned up the bugs as best I could but my brother though it was stupid. They were only a little scary at first.”
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 88/88, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Friday October 27th, 2017 4:51:29 PM
Velarin, while happy to see that Leslie is well, immediately gets a very odd feeling upon hearing her welcome. His something not right indicator has activated "Perhaps we have been doing this too long, and have seen too much, but I have a feeling that something is not right here. Would a couple of you be so kind as to go upstairs and check on or awaken the parents?"
"Leslie, how long have your parents been asleep? Where is your brother? What did your parents have to say about sweeping the bugs, and what has happened since we left? Have you seen any weird rocks around?"
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 d20+20=35 ; d20+17=34 ; Friday October 27th, 2017 8:49:09 PM
Lanliss is wary of the situation. He kneels down near Leslie and asks her So your mom and dad are asleep ? After getting some answers from her for whatever the group ask her. He raises up slowly as if considering his move. He turns his back to her and quickly motions to the group. He waves his hand up letting them knows someone needs to go up. He will proceed with caution walking with nimble feet to stay stealthy. He goes up himself unless something more urgent is happening with Leslie brother.
Stealth 35 Perception 34
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) d20+23=43 ; d20+15=35 ; Saturday October 28th, 2017 10:45:32 AM
While the others talk to the little girl, he gives Barratore a nod in one direction before moving off. He makes a once 'round the house looking for anything odd. He hopes that the implications of V's statement are groundless, but being seasoned he has learned to be clear an area before letting your guard down.
If the house checks out, he will move out to check any out buildings or livestock.
Perception DC 43, Survival DC 35
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Sunday October 29th, 2017 11:55:46 PM "Only if they've had enough sleep, child. The salt of the earth deserve their rest."
DM Ryan | Tactical Maps and Artwork Monday October 30th, 2017 3:19:50 PM
Arriving at night a few of the members of the party are concerned but there is nothing amiss. Lanliss sneaks upstairs and checks the rooms and finds that all is well. The brother and parents are indeed asleep. Brom’s search of the house also turns up nothing out of the ordinary.
Leslie answers Velarin’s questions truthfully thinking they are playing some game and wanting to show how smart she is for her age.
“They have not been asleep long, I was thinking about what happened the other day and couldn’t sleep it was just so exciting. Bolts of fire and friendly bugs fighting the bad ones. I came back out to get a snack. Little Lance is sleeping in our room as far as I know. He sleeps like a big old log most of the time and I don’t think he thinks much.”
“They didn’t mind me sweeping up the bugs I don’t think. I mean, well, umm… I didn’t really ask and they were busy. I am not in trouble am I, don’t tell on me. I was brave.”
“Dad is running to Magpie Crossing in the morning, so he needs his sleep. Hey you should go with him so he can tell them what a hero you are.”
[ooc: did not mean to throw out a red herring folks. I did not anticipate a sleeping family being a red flag though in retrospect it would have been a nice chance for a story element.]
In the morning the family wakes happy to see the group returned but sad to hear about the druid and the other dead halfling. Marilyn comments that the druid often had another halfling that he was seen with, someone who enjoyed time in the woods, and that it was probably him.
Lance, as Leslie suggested, positively insists that the group accompany him back to Magpie Crossing. He needs to pick up some supplies and would be glad for the company. He also points out that he wants to be sure you get the praise you deserve for the service you rendered.
“I would be honored if you would accompany me back to Magpie Crossing. I am sure you can find a faster trip then that with a farmer and his wagon, I understand if you want to do that, but the company would be appreciated. Also, people should know of the good you did for my family.”
[ooc: Free to ask other questions but unless there is a real objection the journey is without incident.]
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 88/88, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Monday October 30th, 2017 4:12:06 PM
V smiles at Leslie after learning that all is well. "You are not in trouble, but you are not likely allowed to be outside alone at night. Am I correct? I will say nothing of the matter, but there could still be a shadow thing or two wandering about somewhere in the woods, so be smart regarding your safety."
Responding to the farmer. " I believe several of us have matters to look into that are pressing in nature, and while praise is not what we wish for, it seems you would be safer in our company, just in case a few more of these shadow creatures are out there. Emrys, do you want to wind walk yourself, Shepard, and a couple others and begin your investigations? And those who wish for a hike can remain with me? We can be shortly behind you. If you are able to learn a name and a little information on those we seek, I could cast a legend lie to learn more."
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 26 (T 14, FF 26, Raged 24), CMD: 35 (38 Raged); HP: 165 (207 raged); DR 3/- (6/- raged) Monday October 30th, 2017 6:00:05 PM
"I don't mind the walk." Brom says. "You guys go do yer researchy thing. I'll escort Lance."
Brom will escort Lance along with any of the others that wish to go.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 34 (T 14 FF 26), CMD:35; HP: 178/178 Character Sheet Monday October 30th, 2017 6:05:25 PM
Barratore wakes teh next day, still unsure why some of his companions got all excited when Leslie was up and the parents were asleep. 'Can't sneak out if you try before your parents go to bed and they wont go to bed until you do.' That was his cousin's mantra and thus he and Barratore always went to bed early. He breaks from the memory and nods to Lance. "I'll walk with Lance, you all poof back and get started. i got nothing to lend on that."
Barratore walks in silence. Small talk is not his thing and his brain simply does not engage in that way. He simply walks along. If Lance engages him, he answers as long as the conversation does not get too boring.
Lanliss Drakeguard (Michael A) HP69/98 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:28 Monday October 30th, 2017 9:22:19 PM
Lanliss will escort Lance as well. Saying while packing is stuff, Now...I think it would be good if we go with you (referring to whomever agrees to go with escorting Lance), things might go bad once again. I think the company will be great and besides, Brom here can handle a lot so don't worry , he adds, hoping he didn't scare Lance.
Hopefully it will be a short nice trip, Lanliss thinks to himself.
Edson Monday October 30th, 2017 10:40:45 PM
Edson keeps to himself and heads back with the others. An uneventful walk back is ecactly what they needed.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 143 -- AC 14/10/14 -- F+17 R+9 W+23 -- CMD 16 Monday October 30th, 2017 11:02:30 PM
Baslim brandishes his walking stick and keeps pace with Lance.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac16 hp 57/57. rituals: ward, sharing. Monday October 30th, 2017 11:08:10 PM
Emrys says, "Very well, then. All who wish to expedite their return to the manor house, then come along."
He waits for each person who wishes to go on ahead and then says the Word of Recall. A scent of evergreen fills the area as leaves get whipped up into the air by a sudden breeze. Then immediately the winds calm and peace returns ... Emrys and his travel companions are gone ... only a circle of mushrooms remain.
Emrys appears on the grounds of the manor house. Several among his coven are already waiting for him. "Good morning ladies and gentlemen. We have need to prepare ... chop chop!"
"Angus, tell me what you have learned."
Angus replies, "This way ... I made tea."
"Excellent, tell me more," says the Elder Witch as they enter the house.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 88/88, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Tuesday October 31st, 2017 1:18:43 PM
With enough folk going with Lance, V returns with Emrys.
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