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Go Forth and Find


DM Carl - Welcome to Rattledam 
Saturday March 3rd, 2018 4:00:15 PM
A shield spell is cast, jokes are made, and Murphy makes sure to remember everything important.

The ritual will involve the piece of crystal the party has agreed to obtain, plus several other important pieces of Sargrass history. Mahyawu will perform the ritual when all the pieces have come together.

Mahyawu sit impassively as the party enters, nodding solemly to each as they pass.

...

The world you exit into is cloaked in twilight as well, but it's impossible to know if the land is in eternal twilight, or if it's just almost bedtime. The ground under your feet is unsteady; adjusting to the new environment, it appears the party has landed on a dock of some sort. Small ships are moored nearby, but there's no water to be seen anywhere. It takes a moment to realize the wooden dock and the ships are both floating on top of an endless sea of grass. The only thing that breaks the horizon is what is obviously the Crystal Mountains to the north.

The dock stretches to the west, where Rattledam lies. It is a monsterous beehive-shaped structure made from woven grass and glass. A handful of people climb around the surface, repairing frayed grasses or opening glass widows to let in air. A group of human women and men walk past, eat with a large slug slung over their shoulders. They eye the party suspiciously as they past, but are not unfriendly.

At the entrance to the east are two lightly armed guards. They nod as the slug-hunters pass into the beehive.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 21 HP 50 (due to temp Con drop)/80 
Saturday March 3rd, 2018 8:12:46 PM

"We made it," Murphy says in Halfling. He says the same thing to Bliss in the Sylvan tongue, then adds to him, "You still need to learn to speak Halfling, kitty cat." He looks out over the grassy sea. He had heard of the Sargrass, certainly. Never thought he'd actually be in the area. At the moment, though weakened, he feels gratitude that he is able to enjoy the life of an adventurer. So many of the folk from his town never venture more than a few miles from home.

"Everyone ready?" he asks. If none object, or suggest waiting, he walks off the dock to the more solid local ground, and gives a friendly nod to the guards, and moves to enter the beehive.

If challenged, he says, "Good evening. We need wise counsel of the monks. May we enter?"

If asked where they came from, Murphy says, "The docks, just now." If pressed further, he says, "Do we really need to talk of the outside? Let us speak of the here and now. We are here, and would speak with the monks. May we?"

He will offer his name if asked.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 82/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Sunday March 4th, 2018 5:38:18 PM
Hobie offers his name after Murphy.

“We need to find some Monks. It’s kind of a life or death matter for everyone we’ve ever known or loved. Please let us through”

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers  d20+9=14 ;
Monday March 5th, 2018 3:29:16 PM
Pressi and Harper walk along the docks, not really sure of what to think.

"Excuse me," Pressi stops one of the humans walking past. "I'm going to ask a couple of questions that are going to be strange to you, but we're kind of new around here, so...." (Diplomacy 14).

"Ok, first of all can anyone tell us the date? Maybe including the year?

"Second, is there anywhere we can stop off and rest, a hotel maybe?" Pointing to Harper, "Preferably one that's pet friendly? Oh, and alcohol, in case that's not a given.

"And third... have any of you seen anything strange around here? I know that's vague but I think if you have seen it, you'll know what I'm asking about."

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle)  d20+20=31 ; d20+26=37 ; d20+9=20 ;
Monday March 5th, 2018 6:17:48 PM
Bliss meows to Murphy.

He follows with the group, listening to conversations and sneakily looking for clues.

Perception 31
Stealth 37

Bliss tries to figure out what the deal is with this magic grass that lets ships float on it.

Know Nature 20

DM Carl - Welcome to Rattledam 
Monday March 5th, 2018 9:33:14 PM
OOC: I'm in the ER, so minimal post tonight.

The guards look at each other for a moment, sigh, and turn back towards the party. "Everyone's welcome here, folks. It's Rattledam. Just don't cause a ruckus and you'll be fine. We're here more for beasties than customs, if you catch my drift." They look at the animals the party brought with them. "Not much in the way of stables around here, though. That may be an issue. Plenty of grass to eat, at least... I'm sure you'll figure something out."

Bliss observes the floating structures. Both the dock and boats are made of the same wood. That's probably not a coincidence. Other than that, ow it works is not clear.

They turn you answer Pressi's questions. "Date? Time? You'll want to ask the monks. Since we got shifted out of the real world, it's always twilight. They've been keeping track, but i couldn't tell ya. Really, things have been quiet since we got sucked into the Vale of Twilight. Fewer outsiders, but that's ok with most."

They make no effort to block your entrance.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 21 HP 50 (due to temp Con drop)/80 
Monday March 5th, 2018 11:44:23 PM
[ER? You okay? - or is it a family member?]

Murphy relaxes when the guards welcome them. He looks at his friends, leans down to give CatBliss a little scratch behind the ears, then steps forward into the hive building. He looks about, sees what is inside, and who. Unless called to stop, he moves forward, rather than going to the right or left.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24 (28 total defense), HP 93/109, CMD 24, 1 Str damage; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24 
Monday March 5th, 2018 11:53:54 PM
[Oh no...hope everyone worked out okay]

Kezzem yawns. "Can one of you fine gents direct me towards the inn?" he asks the guard.

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle) 
Tuesday March 6th, 2018 1:01:42 PM

Bliss follows Kezzem toward the inn. He yawns too. It has been a long day, and the group needs to rest.

All this planar travel is giving Bliss the "jet lag," as Mookie used to call it.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 82/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Tuesday March 6th, 2018 2:46:00 PM
Hobie will happily follow the rest of the group to the inn. He's tired and would love to have time to prepare more spells.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers 
Tuesday March 6th, 2018 3:33:42 PM
"Don't cause a ruckus and you'll be fine," Pressi grumped. "I cannot work under such conditions..."

To Harper's whine, "Sorry, girl. But I've still got some rations and it doesn't sound like they'd mind us hunting at least."

Pressi follows everyone in. Most of the group wants to head towards the inn, but Pressi figured that time was of the essence... wasn't it? The whole forever twilight thing threw her a little bit, but she assumed time still flowed here.

DM Carl - Welcome to Rattledam The Ruins of Rattledam 
Tuesday March 6th, 2018 8:48:32 PM
"Excuse me," says a voice behind the party. Looking behind, another slug party is trying to get through. The guards wave them in.

...but no. That wasn't another slug party. That was the same slug party. Looking back, the party sees no new ships on the dock. Turning back around to the gate, they are greeted by a very different view of Rattledam.

Gone are the guards, and the climbers. Gone are the hunters. The grass weave of Rattledam's exterior is in serious disarray, and only a single glass pane remains unbroken. With no guards to bar their entrance, the party is able to move inside.

Rattledam is a city in ruins. It was once a beautiful sight, no doubt. Walkways and buildings expand vertically all the way to the top dome of the city. Homes built on top of homes in a chaotic, but efficient manner. Ragged remains of what were once likely tapestries can still be found slung under the intact walkways, and chips of paint are still visible on the building walls.

Wind blows through open holes in the exterior, howling softly as they stir through the city.

There are a few buildings that stand out:


***

I'm back home. The wife was showing signs of another stroke, but it turned out to be a false alarm.

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle)  d20+15=22 ;
Tuesday March 6th, 2018 11:08:55 PM

As Bliss changes back, he blinks, and the vision of the city that was is gone.

"Ha!" he laughs, "The Fey Queen likes to play jokes on those who visit her valleys."

He yawns again hugely. "Let's go to that tavern and sleep. I'm tired!"

Perception 22 with a self-imposed -5 because Bliss is sleepy.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 21 HP 50 (due to temp Con drop)/80 
Tuesday March 6th, 2018 11:54:14 PM

"Did we just have a time jump?" Murphy asks his friends. "A moment ago the city looked well kept. Two guards were there. Now they are gone. Where things were intact, now they stand in disarray." He thinks a moment. "Or perhaps it was just a momentary vision, so that we might see where it was, compared with its current state. Or, recent events are making me batty."

"I'm inclined to head straight to the temple with Pantheon's symbol. Yes, I'm tired, along with many of you. Yes, we would benefit from rest. Convince me we should do otherwise, and I will listen. Otherwise, let's stop there first."

He takes counsel. If things are evenly split between temple and inn, he says, "I'm off to the temple." If most want the inn, he goes along with them.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers  d20+14=22 ; d20+11=23 ;
Wednesday March 7th, 2018 1:02:58 PM
"Yes, well I for one vote for the inn," Pressi replied. "If you think I'm dealing with this sober, you're nuts."

Pressi pays some attention to the tapestries, trying to make out any designs (Perception 22, Know Local 23) but isn't sure what else to make of the place or of what happened. "I'm beginning to understand what 'don't bring up the outside world' is supposed to mean."



Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24 (28 total defense), HP 93/109, CMD 24, 1 Str damage; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24 
Wednesday March 7th, 2018 1:16:40 PM
"Wow, I must be more tired than I thought...," says Kezzem.

"Oh, you guys saw that too? So that...really just happened? I'm confused."

"I'm with Press, maybe if we get drunk things will make more sense. Or, more likely, we at least won't care that things don't make sense."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 82/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Wednesday March 7th, 2018 3:20:34 PM
"Yeah, that was trippy. Maybe a few drinks and some sleep would really help this make more sense. My vote is for the inn"

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle) 
Wednesday March 7th, 2018 6:05:09 PM
"HEY!" Bliss has an idea. He looks behind at the magical wood dock. Is it still there? How about the ships? Any of them still there? He starts thinking about asking Mister Murphy to use Mending and Wood Shape magic ...

"Anyone know how to drive a ship?"

DM Carl - Welcome to Rattledam The Ruins of Rattledam 
Wednesday March 7th, 2018 9:36:24 PM
Murphy is keen to get to work. He is alone in his enthusiasm.

So, to the inn they go. Once upon a time, this must have been an exceptionally cozy place. Two large stone hearths sit in opposite walls to keep the place warm on cold Sargrass evenings. The entire far wall is one giant bar with a single door leading back to what was obviously the kitchen & larder. A simple stairwell leads up to a loft that surrounds the entire common area. Doors lead to what are certainly private rooms.

The centerpiece of the space is a large, masterfully carven wooden dias. With the exception of the stools at the bar, every bit of seating and table is set up to give view of it. It's also a safe bet that a number of guests would stand outside their rooms, leaning on the railing and watching. Evidently live performances were an important part of this place.

Pressi inspects what's left of some tapestries. The ones in here were protected from the elements and have survived much better. Each one is a little masterpiece, weaving animal wool and grass together in complex patterns. They are mostly abstract, but the symbol of Pantheon can be seen in many of them. Appraisal check DC 20, Highlight to display spoiler: {These would sell for a nice sum back in the real world. Maybe not in Humble's Ford specifically, but someone somewhere would pay a few hundered gold for them.}

The larder is...unpleasant. When this place was abandoned, it's obvious they didn't have time to pack everything up. As a result, there's quite a bit of rotten food. If you can stomach the smell, there may be something nutritious left. The alcohol is all kept in the back. Several kegs are here, and a bottle rack is still decently stocked.

**Searching the larder requires a DC 15 fort save and a perception check. Save failure grants the sickened condition until the character gets some fresh air.

Bliss gets an idea! He pokes his head out to inspect the dock and finds that yes, there IS a boat still moored there. A better look shows it to be in decent condition & large enough for everyone, Harper included. The larger mounts? Not so much. Speaking of the horses, there's PLENTY of grass to eat, but who knows what's safe.

**A knowledge nature DC 25 is needed to identify safe grass for the horses to eat. Harper better hope there's something decent left in the larder.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 21 HP 50 (due to temp Con drop)/80 
Wednesday March 7th, 2018 9:59:15 PM

"I'm outvoted, then," Murphy allows. "To the inn." Then the cat speaks up. "I know how to shape wood, yes, though I've not appropriated any wood working spells on this day. Is it the same day?" The halfling consults his inner druid, and probes to see if he is somehow ready to memorize new spells at the moment. If so, he tells others. If not, he simply adds, "You're thinking of sailing over the grassy sea, Bliss? I know how to drive a cart, and some of us here have navigated with a raft."

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24 (28 total defense), HP 93/109, CMD 24, 1 Str damage; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24 
Wednesday March 7th, 2018 10:56:06 PM
"Okay, this isn't creepy at all...." says Kezzem.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 21 HP 50 (due to temp Con drop)/80  d20+3=8 ; d20+6=19 ; d20+15=31 ; d20+8=11 ; d20+25=37 ;
Thursday March 8th, 2018 1:12:26 AM
Note: My prior post was written before the DM post appeared, but I was interrupted, and did not send to post until a bit later - yet still before I was aware of DM Carl's post. So there.]

Murphy admires the tapestries. He is trying to develop his artistic capabilities. He does not prove to be a very good assessor of market value [appraisal 8, profession artist 11], but even so, as the place is evidently largely deserted long since, he finds a couple of the more representational pieces and a couple of the more abundant abstract pieces, and carefully rolls them together. Murphy also resolves to pay or return them if he finds someone still currently owns this place - and lets his comrades know his resolve.

He does investigate the larder, and is able, despite the current hit to his constitution, to withstand the odorous onslaught [Fort 19], and perhaps find a few foods that have managed to survive and still be edible [Perception: 37]. He takes a few wine bottles, and mead, if any. Also, a keg of ale.

For the ponies, he looks about, and spends perhaps half an hour looking over different types - touching, smelling, and, if initial impressions adequately quiet his apprehensions, nibbles on some. If he finds some that seem edible [knowledge, nature 31], he first consults with Kezzem and Hobie, then gives a small amount of one type to Rumpus, and a small amount of another to Pippa, then observes them closely for a while, checking back frequently. If all seems well, then he adds two more grass types, one for one, and the other for the other. Again, observation. He repeats this gradual testing of potential fodder until available and apparently safe local options are either at an end - or after he has ten total comestible types, whichever comes first. He makes sure not to overfeed the horses - and also marks which types the two ponies seem to prefer, or distain. Oh, and he marks sourcing spots.

"Though the Rattledam folk don't care too much for discussions of the outside world - and I seem to recall that Southern Continent real estate can be fairly shifty - maybe we should keep eyes open for any sort of maps."

As his friends also look around, Murphy asks, "So, then, do we assign ourselves rooms, and fall asleep here? Or do we take the time to see what else might be here in town? If you'd like, I can wild shape to some sort of innocuous bird, flit about, and pick up what else I might about who, if anyone, might still be around, and keep you, Pressi, apprised of what I observe as I come across it, that you can let others know. That way we might learn of monsters before they come to learn of us. Likewise, of potentially good folk."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers  d20+4=12 ; d20+11=18 ; d20+14=23 ; d20+4=6 ; d20+8=26 ;
Thursday March 8th, 2018 10:45:32 AM
Pressi can't make heads or tails of the tapestry's worth (appraise 12) but she does take one of the Pantheon tapestries in hopes that someone can tell her what it's referencing.

With Murphy's help (Fort 18, Perception 23), she begins to prepare dinner for the group and to help clear away the smell. (Profession Courtesan roll 6 to clean out the smell, Prestidigitation, mage hand and create water casts, along with her daily use of the box of Elven Sustenance and her last rose temperature control, help her hopefully produce a small meal for everyone including Harper. If needed, she fleshes the meal with up to three rations and of what's left of her Goodbar.) With some inspiration (Knowledge Check 26, she can find some grass for the horses.)

"If you ask me, I'm still a little uncomfortable going back to sleeping in private rooms in spooky places. Even if doing so enough times will apparently make me a twisted god of some sort." She shivered at the last time they slept in private rooms in an unsecured area, how their supposedly benevolent host tried to soul jar them one by one while elementals broke into the rooms. Every curse she fired was a testament to the host's successes and failures.

It might not be a bad idea to set up camp here, where we can set some alarms and watches and presumably see what's coming. A quick scout of the area isn't a bad idea, either. Might be good to search the rest of the building, too.

"Speaking of which, we need to face the fact that we have no idea what we will meet when we enter that temple, but the idea that any monks can help us seems pretty far fetched as of now. Who knew that just following a grey imp without any explanation could turn out so poorly?"

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24 (28 total defense), HP 93/109, CMD 24, 1 Str damage; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24  d4=1 ;
Thursday March 8th, 2018 12:18:11 PM
(I checked my notes, and apparently I still have a lesser res left for the day)

Kezzem places a hand on Murph. "You're still looking a little green there, Murph"
Murphey: 1 Con restored

Kezzem will cast detect evil and check the place out for any pings. "I doubt I'll find anything, this place seems pretty deserted," he says to the party.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24 (28 total defense), HP 93/109, CMD 24, 1 Str damage; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24 
Thursday March 8th, 2018 12:20:26 PM
(Nope, double checked the archives, I did cast lesser restoration, I just forgot to record in my notes. Please disregard).

Bookkeeping:
Lay on Hands 7/day (7 used)
Smite Evil 4/day

Spells:
1st Level: Cure Light Wounds x2 (both cast), Lesser Restoration (cast)
2nd Level: Resist Energy, Shield Other (cast)
3rd Level: Cure Moderate Wounds (cast)

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 82/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2  d20+8=15 ; d20+15=18 ; d20+5=24 ;
Thursday March 8th, 2018 12:23:36 PM
Hobie heads into the larder, he can barely stomach the smell, but he is able to handle it. (Fort15)
He looks around (Perception 18) and grabs any good food he can find, and a few bottles of whiskey if he can find them.

He thanks Murphy for finding some good grass for Pippa, and after making sure she is okay and fed, he heads into the common room of the inn to relax. He encourages the rest of his group to join him.

"Guys, we've just defended our town from fire elementals, fought off a crazy zoo, almost got eaten by a giant worm, and then teleported to this crazy place, all within 24 hours or so. Can we PLEASE take a break and rest for a bit? Come inside, lets drink some, lets eat some, and maaaaaaaaybe, if it's not too much to ask, even laugh some?"

Hobie sits down in a chair that looks fairly comfy, pours a glass of whiskey for himself and any who join him, and pulls his lute from his handy haversack. He takes a drink, and begins to play for his friends, or just for himself if he's alone. (Perform Lute 24)

This is the song Hobie plays.


Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 82/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Thursday March 8th, 2018 12:30:07 PM
========

Rounds of Haste Left 4/10

======
Spells Prepared
Bonded Object Free Spell

0 Level
Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Message

1st Level
Shield, True Strike, Obscuring Mist, Grease, Feather Fall

2nd Level
Resist Energy Fire, Invisibility, Invisibility, Cat's Grace

DM Carl - Welcome to Rattledam The Ruins of Rattledam 
Thursday March 8th, 2018 9:38:08 PM
Humble's Sword must be itching for a stiff drink if they're willing to put up with this stink. Pressi, bless her heart, cleans up. It certainly helps. While cleaning, she stumbles on a cache of salted meat and pickled carrots, cucumbers, and those little ears of corn. The preserved foods should be (read: are) safe to eat.

The party does strike upon a cache of alcohol as well. In total they find a keg of ale, another keg of mead, 9 bottles of wine, and a single bottle of a yellowish green distilled liquor. Knowledge local DC 15, Highlight to display spoiler: {distilled glass grass. One of the finest liquors in the Wold. Very pricey since it's been unavailable for years.}

Pressi and Murphy continue talking business. The druid identifies a small number of grasses that are safe for Rumpus and Pippa to eat. Pressi ponders the wisdom of sleeping in private rooms and recommends a scouting party.

Hobie, however, has had enough. He wants rest, drink, and maybe some good times. He plays a song to set the mood.

The party has food, drink, and a warmish place to stay. The stone hearths can be easily lit should they desire a fire.

***

I have nothing on tap for the rest of the evening. Ya'll can RP a relaxing evening if you'd like, otherwise I'll move things along tomorrow.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 21 HP 50 (due to temp Con drop)/80  d20+10=20 ;
Friday March 9th, 2018 2:43:04 AM

r"Right, Press. Sure'n we can have a slumber party, right?"

"Thanks, Kezzem. Perhaps after a good rest."

As Hobie begins to play, Murphy's attention is drawn. He grew up in a family full of music. His father and one of his brothers are bards, and several siblings play multiple instruments, and sing. The family business includes crafting musical instruments.

So, Murphy pulls over a woven chair, and finds a way to add a scraping percussive sound to the piece by drawing fingernails over the rough grassy sinews. He contemplates what lyrics may go with such a tune, but does not manage to formulate anything that scans well. But, he does keep a nice rhythm.

"Oh, for more times to just sit and enjoy. Well played, Hobie."

"Dibs on the mead. Want to save it for a special occasion."

He opens a bottle of wine, and finds drinking vessels to share it around. Regarding one of the other bottles, he comments, "This looks like distilled glass grass. In the Giggling Ghost a few years ago someone won a bottle of something like it. A rare treat, they say, a highly sought after liqueur."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers  d20+5=10 ; d20+11=22 ; d20+12=14 ;
Friday March 9th, 2018 10:16:25 AM
Pressi knelt down to light the stone hearths. (Her magic was gone, but she still had her flint and steel.) Light and shadows flickered before her eyes.

"I suppose it has been a while," she responded to Hobie. As alcohol moved through her body, she couldn't help but move to Hobie's and Murphy's melody for better or worse (Dance 10). "Can't believe there was a time when I actually thought things too frivolous. Frivolity is truly undervalued, I suppose."

She finally sits down, snuggling towards Murphy but addressing Hobie. "So how does a common burglar learn how to play, one wonders? You must have a few stories to tell." She takes some time to fill in Hobie and Lance with some of her own stories - the time the group got stuck in a time loop, the Janascis follower that loved scorpions, the time (before they joined Humble's Sword) that she and Kezzem had to talk their way into a nightclub.

Murphy does not need to tell her that the liquor is highly sought after, having sought after it herself (Know 22) but she holds her tongue. Doesn't want to be seen as the girl who drinks away the treasure, at least not yet.

-------------

If there were watches and traps set, Pressi doesn't remember in the morning. She does remember the hardwood floor she pushed everyone to sleep on, its hardness seared into her body.

As she begins her rituals (barely capturing the Woldsblood), she realizes that she doesn't know how much she can rely on their coven. As a test, she activates her cauldron, trying to see if she can reach any of her followers. (If she can reach them, she tells them everything that happened.)

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle)  d20+24=28 ;
Friday March 9th, 2018 6:41:37 PM
Bliss tries to use his Coven ability to contact his helpers. He does not think it will work, but he tries.

Members of a coven can commune with other coven members on the same plane once per day for up to one hour through a cauldron.

Assuming it does not work, he says to Pressi, "Well, when it does work, we'll know we're back home."

Bliss uses his evening to brew a potion of Cure Serious Wounds. That will always come in handy.
Spellcraft check 28, costs 375 gp. Sheet updated.

Before anyone eats anything here, he uses his cauldron to Purify Food and Drink.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24 (28 total defense), HP 93/109, CMD 24, 1 Str damage; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24 
Saturday March 10th, 2018 1:21:29 PM
OOC: Did Kezzem's detect evil reveal anything?

Kezzem pipes in with Pressi's story.

"That was back in my more roguish days, but then I took an arrow-to-the-knee, so to speak."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 82/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Saturday March 10th, 2018 3:29:32 PM
Hobie loves the story sharing part of the night. "Well I actually only took up the hobby pretty recently. Right after I joined you guys and we beat that Uthvas guy. I took some of my share of the treasure and bought this lute. I've been practicing whenever I get a free moment."

He strums a few chords and smiles wide as he adds, "But man, there were some great musicians in the circles I used to run in. This guy, Slick Pete, he could really play."

Hobie's smile turns to a solemn, sad face, "I wonder if he gets to play much in prison..."

He returns to playing the lute while his friends share stories.

========

The next day Hobie wakes up, and takes some time to study his spell book, preparing the day's spells.

======
Spells Prepared
Bonded Object Free Spell

0 Level
Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Message, Mending

1st Level
Grease, Shocking Grasp, Obscuring Mist, Summon Monster 1, Feather Fall

2nd Level
Mirror Image, Invisibility, Invisibility, Cat's Grace

DM Carl - Welcome to Rattledam The Ruins of Rattledam 
Saturday March 10th, 2018 8:24:35 PM
**Detect evil detects no evil anywhere.

There is decent enough food, and enough high-quality booze and music to have an enjoyable evening. Bliss finds time to brew a potion, but otherwise the night passes uneventfully.

The next morning, Pressi and Bliss try to contact their coven, but can't reach them. Looks like Bliss' hunch was right. Distracted, Pressi captures her daily Woldsblood more easily than she expected. (While in this plane, capturing the Woldsblood is much easier. You get a +5 bonus each day.)

In fact, a bunch of things work better:

All divine casters get one additional spell/spell slot at the highest level they can cast.
Any supernatural or spell-like abilities get a +2 to the DC to save against them.

His spell power returned, Murphy notices...something off. He's not sure what to think, but he has a hunch his spellcasting is somehow affected here.

It is now...morning? Yea, it's morning. The sun is up, despite what the guard said. The temperature is rising quickly and the air is already drying out. If anyone is taking any precautions against the heat, please say so. Other than that, you have a town to explore.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 21 HP 50 (due to temp Con drop)/80  d20+5=19 ; d20+25=41 ;
Sunday March 11th, 2018 3:29:11 AM

When Hobie mentions Slick Pete and the circle of musicians he used to run with, Murphy says, "We used to have a bard with us. Flimsipold was his name. Flimsipold 'Hin Billy' Williewhim. He was quite taken with one of the town beauties, Mulberry. Sang songs about her all the time. Tried to name our group after her. She seemed to barely know he existed. But he could play a rousing tune." He pauses, then laughs. "He would often let us know, when it was time for chores, that such were not a task for bards. One time he asked who was going to set up a tent for him. I gave him a tent, and told him to set it up if he wanted to sleep in it. So, he grumbled a bit, but went ahead and put it up. And he wrote a song, that went like this." Murphy tells Hobie the five chords used in the song, hums a bit, then sings the whole thing.
Settin' Up The Tent
by Hin Billy

First you find a level place
Without too many rocks or bumps
Settin' up the tent
Settin' up the tent
Then you lay the ground tarp
Smoothin' out the many lumps
Settin' up the tent
Settin' up the tent
Unfold the blasted canvas mess
Spread it even all ways 'bout
Settin' up the tent
Settin' up the tent
At this point in the song Murphy takes Pressi's hand and dances with her as he sings. [Perform, Dance: 19]

Then you stake the corners down
Grab two poles and crawl inside
Settin' up the tent
Settin' up the tent
One end up - there!
T'other one too - there!
Crawl on out and grab the lines
Pull them taut and stake THEM down!
Settin' up the tent
Settin' up the tent
Before your eyes the tent does grow
Two thin poles hold up the canopy
Make all tight and neat and snug
Now your tent is fine for all to see
Settin' up the tent
Settin' up the tent
Doing this is lots of work
Murphy made me he is such a jerk
Settin' up the tent
Settin' up the tent
Now I'm sleepy - go inside
Fall asleep and in sweet dreams abide
The tent's set up
The tent's set up
[snoring sounds]

"I remember Hazel was humming that song a good part of the next day. Ah, I miss Hazel traveling with us. At least he and Alouryn are taking care of our home in Humble's." As he helps Pressi sit back down with him, he snuggles up to her.

He listens to the stories she tells, adds in a few details here and there. Though some of the current party have heard this offer before, Murphy lets all present know that he has kept a journal of Humble's Sword, carries the original copy with him at all times, and is happy to let any party member read it when they want to. [The players can read back through any of this game's archives to see what their PCs would be reading about.]

=========
In the morning...

Murphy asks his fellow spell casters whether they notice anything different. "I've noticed I seem to be able to remember an extra spell for the day, at least. And, something else seems odd, but I can't yet put my finger on it." As the day is warming up, he casts create water to see if there is any change in that particular cantrip.

If Kezzem is willing to offer again a lesser restoration, he will gratefully accept it.

For the heat? Murphy will offer to create water up in the air to give people an occasional shower, and help keep people cooler. Perhaps once every 10 to 20 minutes should do the trick, as evaporating water does help combat heat.

After spell preparation [*Note: will have to get to that Sunday night, or thereabouts] and breakfast, Murphy says, "I want to go to the center of this place, where the symbol of Pantheon shows boldly. Who wants to come along?"

When all are ready, he sets out with his friends.
=======
Perception: 41

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers 
Monday March 12th, 2018 2:22:25 PM
In response to Murphy's question, Pressi doesn't have much to say in regards to anything unusual, other than that she doesn't seem to be able to fail to contain the Woldsblood when there'd otherwise be risk. (Witches are arcane and they don't have much in the way of SLAs with saves. If she ever tries Death Knell, though...)(DM - do she and Bliss get an extra domain spell?)

Without the coven to commune with, Pressi and Bliss begin strategies for what they might be able to do for daily rituals and leaves it up to Bliss. She will join in the Grimalkin ritual (the cat one) if that's what he wants, but she'd rather try for the warding ritual (especially if Bliss can beat her on Survival.)

As for the intermediate ritual, Pressi has an idea. Instead of a shared spell, they could use the third eye ritual and use the docks and the hotel as the locations. Such a stopgap could be used to make sure nothing invades their safe zones and that the planes don't change on them.

------------

Regarding preparation, she casts Rose Temperature control upon herself and Lesser Restore on Murphy, and expects Bliss to cast Rose on himself. As for Kezzem and Hobie, she doesn't have a better idea beyond hitting a soaked halfling with a freeze.

She is a tad surprised that Murphy wants to hit the center. "What about the monks? Shouldn't we check them out first?"

--------------

L1 - 1
L2 - 1

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle) 
Monday March 12th, 2018 5:30:03 PM
Bliss preps for the day, choosing Shield of Faith rather than Resist Fire to share. Hope that's OK with Pressi?

OOC: Rolls and such to come in another post.]

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 21 HP 50 (due to temp Con drop)/80 
Monday March 12th, 2018 6:26:01 PM
"Don't you think they might be in that building?" Murphy responds.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 82/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Monday March 12th, 2018 8:17:04 PM
"It sure is getting hot!" Hobie takes out a wand and taps himself with it "Anybody else want a dose of Endure Elements? It'll keep you comfortable for a good 24 hours. Also, please don't spray me with create water." (If anyone wants a use of it, just put it in your post so I can mark it on my wand)

"I don't know about anything different. When I prepared my spells this morning, it all felt the same. Must be a divine thing."

======
Spells Prepared
Bonded Object Free Spell

0 Level
Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Message, Mending

1st Level
Grease, Shocking Grasp, Obscuring Mist, Summon Monster 1, Feather Fall

2nd Level
Mirror Image, Invisibility, Invisibility, Cat's Grace

DM Carl - Welcome to Rattledam The Ruins of Rattledam 
Monday March 12th, 2018 10:06:52 PM
**Blood witches do not get an additional spell, even a domain one.

Precautions are taken against the heat. Almost certainly a good idea. Murphy suggests checking out the large building in the top/center of town, thinking that's where the monks may have been headquartered out of.

It's a good hunch. The building is obviously a place of worship and the center of faith in Rattledam. Or, it was anyway. The interior is mostly one large, open space, but several woven movable partitions are placed around the room surrounding small numbers of seats. Seems they worshiped communally, but still had break-out sessions of sorts. If the monks of Rattledam worshiped any other than Pantheon, it's not obvious. The artwork in the temple is exclusively in celebration of the god of justice.

Though the space is empty and neglected, it seems as if some care were taken to put things in order before they fled. No chairs are overturned, no potted plants spilling their soil on the ground (though all are long past dead without regular watering). A large altar sits at the far end of the room. Behind it, the only other door in the room aside from the entrance.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 21 HP 80/80  d4=3 ; d4=3 ;
Tuesday March 13th, 2018 2:22:17 AM

With Pressi's lesser restore, and, if Kezzem's offer of the same stands in the morning, Murphy's constitution is back to normal. He gives Pressi a kiss of gratitude, and thanks Kezzem with a handshake. "I feel better able to face whatever it is we may soon deal with."

Based upon the degree of putrefaction of the food in the pantry of the inn the group stayed in, and the condition of the potted plants, Murphy attempts to estimate the time since Rattledam was deserted (applying the Perception: 41 from prior post). "I would guess something occurred to encourage a hasty exodus. What was it, I wonder?"

Within the sanctuary, Murphy explores with his companions. He stops, and says to them, "Perhaps we ought to acknowledge him who has been worshipped here. He raises his arms and countenance, and prays thusly:
"Pantheon, we stand within your sanctuary. We seek to help preserve and save the Wold. We come to this place, not to trample, but to divine ways to do well. We petition thee to give us what aid you might, and to help us walk uprightly, justly. Do forebear with us as we explore this place. Help us to do so with care, respect, and due diligence. Selah."
He then bows his head in reflection, and to listen if there be any response.

If none, then he asks, "Shall we see what lies behind yonder doorway?"



Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 109/109, CMD 24, Endure Elements; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24  d4=2 ;
Tuesday March 13th, 2018 8:24:29 AM
Kezzem prepares his spells in the morning, casting endure elements on himself and lesser restoration on Murphy.

Ability Healing: 2 (unless you already rolled it....)

"How come I don't get a kiss?" he asks.

Bookkeeping:

Lay on Hands 7/day
Smite Evil 4/day

Spells:
1st Level: Endure Elements (cast), Lesser Restoration x2 (1 cast)
2nd Level: Resist Energy, Shield Other
3rd Level: Cure Moderate Wounds



Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 82/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Tuesday March 13th, 2018 12:49:25 PM
Hobie will walk around the building, casting Detect Magic to see if anything is magical.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 82/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Tuesday March 13th, 2018 12:50:20 PM
(Around and about the inside of the building, not physically AROUND the building)

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers  d20+24=41 ; d20+8=22 ; d20+19=26 ;
Tuesday March 13th, 2018 2:12:25 PM
Pressi and Bliss prepare their rituals for the day (I will roll)

Ritual of Grimalkin - still no fail (+17 from Bliss, +3 from coven)

Ritual of Sharing - Pressi and Bliss are a point apart so Pressi will do it. (+21 +3) - She easily produces the shield, to be split among Harper, Bliss and herself.

Pressi gives Murphy a kiss back and Kezzem a nose wrinkle.

------------

Walking through the abandoned room, she couldn't help but think that maybe she should be better at this stuff - or at least the one praying, as a justicar and all. (Religion 22)

Firing up her read magic tatoo, she begins to peruse the altar and any of the tapestries nearby (Perception 26). "Pretty quiet, even for church." She pushes one of the partitions open.

-----------

ritual grimalkin

shield of faith

L1 - 2
L2 - 1
read tattoo - 1/4


Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle) 
Tuesday March 13th, 2018 9:39:51 PM

The heat is getting to Bliss. Maybe he is not drinking enough. He hardly has energy for the ritual.

"Miss Pressi, thank you very very much for leading the rituals," he says. "I just can't."

He follows along with the group.

DM Ken, Welcome to Rattledam  d8=7 ; d8=2 ; d8=4 ;
Wednesday March 14th, 2018 12:50:18 AM

Murphys prayer to Pantheon disrupts the silence in the room. He says a few words of prayer to the deity, while the others poke around the building.

Kezzem asks Pressi why he never gets any smooches, and in return gets a nose wrinkle from Pressi, who is fresh from her ritual circle. Hobie detects magic, and finds nothing other than their own residual auras.

"Miss Pressi, thank you very very much for leading the rituals," he says. "I just can't."

If poor Bliss had anything else to say, he doesn't get the chance. As Murphy finishes his short prayer, the partition in Pressi's hand rips itself from her grasp and slams against the wall of the church. One by one, every partion, planter, and chair is hurtled across the church floor, hammering against the wall as if they were cannon balls.

Amidst the clamor, the altar at the end of the room screams in protest. The cry is shrill and piercing, staggering Murphy, forcing to him his knees under it's oppressive weight. A dark presence, heavy and thick with spite and menace, stirs in the chaos of the room. The aura is hateful and malevolent, and all of Humble's Shield can feel its desire to consume and destroy.

One by one, each shutter and door snaps closed, and the sound of windows shattering from the impact is heard above the din of violent noise. The chairs suddenly stop, and fall to the ground with the partitions and planters.

Above the doorway behind the shrine, the symbol of Pantheon hangs upside down. The menacing aura remains, permeating every part of the room. There are no other creatures or identifiable physical presences other than yourselves.

Murphy is staggered indefinitely.

All players, 3 reflex saves, DC 20 or take 7, 2, and 4 damage respectively.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 109/109, CMD 24, Endure Elements; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24  d20+13=30 ; d20+13=31 ; d20+13=20 ;
Wednesday March 14th, 2018 9:11:45 AM
SV Ref: 30, 31, 20

Kezzem deftly dodges the falling debris.

"Murphey, what did you do?"

He activates his detect evil to see if he can use it to pinpoint the siurce of the menacing aura.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers  d20+14=28 ; d20+14=22 ; d20+14=21 ;
Wednesday March 14th, 2018 9:10:53 PM
Pressi easily dodges the debris enough, though that last piece didn't miss by much. "Maybe he needs his Murphy kiss too."

She casts detect thoughts in an attempt to track the presence.

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle) 
Wednesday March 14th, 2018 10:29:15 PM

Bliss rouses from his heat-exhausted state to say, "Misterr Murrphy! What did you do?"

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 73/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2  d20+8=16 ; d20+8=16 ; d20+8=21 ; d20+8=25 ;
Wednesday March 14th, 2018 11:30:11 PM
Hobie gets hit with debris twice before he gathers himself enough to dodge the third object. (Takes 9 damage)

"Murph, I think you prayed to the wrong God."

Hobie thinks to himself, trying to remember anything he might have read about Pantheon or rival gods, anything that might explain what just happened here (Knowledge Religion 25)

DM Ken, Welcome to Rattledam 
Thursday March 15th, 2018 1:00:31 AM

Kezzem and Bliss both drill Murphy, "What did you do?" For his part, Murphy is silent. Kezzems detect evil pinpoints nothing, and Pressi's detect thoughts reveals nothing more than the surface thoughts of her allies.

Hobie tries to think of Pantheons rivals, and notes that Jancassis stands for nearly everything that Pantheon despises. Nothing happened here though, seems to bear her hallmark, nor has she ever been known to be involved in the religious dogma of those who worshiped the Sargrass.

The heavy atmosphere continues to press down on Humble's Shield.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 21 HP 80/80  d20+6=24 ; d20+6=11 ; d20+6=19 ;
Thursday March 15th, 2018 3:23:42 AM
Murphy casts freedom of movement.

He takes 2+4=6 go damage.

"An enemy spirit is here. It hit me hard. Let's move on. Through the door." He heads that direction, bracing himself against the next onslaught.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 21 HP 80/80 
Thursday March 15th, 2018 3:25:06 AM
[Tried multiple times to get on earlier - internet problems. Will try again in morning to get more in. Phone posting only allowing me a few lines of text.]

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers  d20+19=21 ;
Thursday March 15th, 2018 10:32:28 AM
As Murphy urges them to try the door, Pressi activates her clair-audio ability, listening at range at any sounds the other side of the door might make. (Perception 21)

She also checks the door for traps (same roll, +1 for traps).

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 73/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Thursday March 15th, 2018 10:42:38 AM
Hobie uses his wand of shield for an AC Bonus and gets ready to head through the door, Prowler in hand. If any from his group through the doorway, he will follow on, preferring to stay about 10 to 15 feet behind whoever takes the lead.

If he finds himself in darkness, he will cast light on his bow.

======
Spells Prepared
Bonded Object Free Spell

0 Level
Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Message, Mending

1st Level
Grease, Shocking Grasp, Obscuring Mist, Summon Monster 1, Feather Fall

2nd Level
Mirror Image, Invisibility, Invisibility, Cat's Grace

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 21 HP 74/80. Shaken. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements 
Thursday March 15th, 2018 12:23:53 PM
Earlier was going to ask Hobie to get an Endure Elements bop from his wand, and to make sure that Bliss and whoever else needed one received it, too. Thought I already had posted that, see that I did not. [Sorry, distracted this week, plus a few weird access issues.]

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 109/109, CMD 24, Endure Elements; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24 
Thursday March 15th, 2018 3:30:56 PM
"Well, that was creepy as fudge. I mean, is it a solid or is it a liquid? That stuff just creeps me out."

Ooc: Onwards!

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle) 
Thursday March 15th, 2018 6:16:49 PM

"This place gives me the heebie jeebies," says Bliss. "Can we please go away?"

Bliss heads for the door. Better to camp outside than endure the ghosts or whatever it is in here!

"Come on, everybody!"

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 73/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Thursday March 15th, 2018 11:16:47 PM
(Arcane Archers have to choose which element for their elemental damage when they prepare spells each morning, so this post is to confirm that for the day Hobie will have Flame arrows)

======
Elemental Arrows: Flame

Rounds of Haste 10/10

======
Spells Prepared
Bonded Object Free Spell

0 Level
Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Message, Mending

1st Level
Grease, Shocking Grasp, Obscuring Mist, Summon Monster 1, Feather Fall

2nd Level
Mirror Image, Invisibility, Invisibility, Cat's Grace

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers  d20+17=36 ;
Friday March 16th, 2018 10:48:21 AM
(Disable Device 36)

If Pressi finds any traps or locked doors, she uses the above roll to open it but doesn't go through the door quite yet.

If Pressi hears anything on the other side of the door before reaching it or working on the traps, she will stop if she hears a threat or something that might react to the door opening.

DM Ken, Welcome to Rattledam 
Friday March 16th, 2018 1:02:21 PM

Humbles Shield is justifiably concerned about being stuck in this room. With the only accessible door being the room beyond the altar, several halflings make towards it.

Each step in a lunge, each inch a mile. The oppressive air seems reluctant to give ground. Pressi listens beyond the door before it is opened. She hears a whispered voice, agitated and scratchy.

"It will be mine. It will be mine. It will be mine. It will be mine."

She checks the door, and finds it to be free and clear of traps. She listens again.

"..it will be mine..it will be mine..it will be mine..it will be mine.."

The voice sounds closer than it was the first time she heard it.

"..minemineminemineitsmineminemineitsmineITSMINEMINEMINE!"

All of Humbles can hear the angry proclamation, just beyond them and past the door. Pantheons holy symbol still hangs, upside down, and the chairs are no longer moving at all.

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle) 
Friday March 16th, 2018 4:11:33 PM

Bliss shouts loudly, "SORRY YOU HAVE TO SHARE!"

He keeps pushing to get out the door.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 109/109, CMD 24, Endure Elements; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24  d20+16=28 ;
Friday March 16th, 2018 11:53:03 PM
Diplomacy: 28.

"It's okay, friend, I promise you can keep whatever it is that is yours," says Kezzem. "We would just like to talk for a bit. You know, get together, have a few laughs, that kind of things. You could put your precious somewhere hidden and safe, or keep it with you if that is what you prefer. So can you come out and a have a chat with your new friend Kezzem?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 94/100. Shaken. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements. Huge Earth Elemental 
Saturday March 17th, 2018 7:30:35 AM

Murphy looks at the inverted symbol, and thinks it would be better were Pantheon's emblem be returned to its right position. Assuming the symbol on the altar is no higher than 30 feet above the ground, Murphy wild shapes into an earth elemental, and steps to within arm's reach of the altar (if freedom of movement will allow him a move after a standard action, despite being staggered).

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 79/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2  d20+13=27 ; d8+1=2 ; d8+1=2 ; d8+1=6 ;
Saturday March 17th, 2018 10:13:13 AM
With everything getting creepy, Hobie feels like it might be best to have as much health as he can. He takes out his wand of cure light wounds and heals himself for 6 HP.

He puts the wand away and prepares to venture forth.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 94/100. Shaken. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements. Huge Earth Elemental 
Saturday March 17th, 2018 9:03:20 PM

If we're not quite in round-by-round action yet - Murphy says, in halfling, "I'm going to right the symbol." Then he takes Pantheon's symbol, and turns it right side up.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers 
Monday March 19th, 2018 7:26:34 PM
"Murphy, no!" Pressi shouted as he chose to just grasp the corrupted religious symbol.



DM Ken, Welcome to Rattledam  d8=7 ;
Monday March 19th, 2018 9:01:32 PM

Murphy reaches out for the holy symbol. His arms stretch for what seems like an eternity, until he grips it firmly. His hands burn, and badly so. With a wrenching effort, he rights the holy symbol, and with a loud snap, the menacing aura disperses.

Murphy suffers 2 strength damage. He is no longer staggered. He takes 7 hp damage.

---------------

The last remnants of the angry spirit seem to melt away with a moment or two of silence. The doors swing lazily inwards with a quiet creak, and a gentle breeze filters through a now shattered window. All the previous entrances and exits are now open, including the door beyond the altar.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 87/100. -2 to Str. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements. Huge Earth Elemental 
Monday March 19th, 2018 9:17:23 PM

"Ouch," Murphy says. "Sorry, Pressi." He casts create water to occur in the air above him, and cups his hands to receive the cooling liquid.

"Thank you, Lord Pantheon," the earth elemental says quietly. "Also Lord Eberyon, and Lady Maab. Let this place return to peace. Guide us in our next steps."

He steps over to kneel before Pressi. Despite his posture, his mass looms above her. "Just want you to know I love you." He holds out a finger to touch her lightly on the cheek, leaving a muddy splotch there.

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle)  d20+20=30 ;
Monday March 19th, 2018 9:24:46 PM

Bliss hides! Stealth 30

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 79/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Monday March 19th, 2018 10:45:55 PM
Hobie shudders as Murphy rights the symbol.

"Well that was crazy. Should we push forward through the door?"

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 109/109, CMD 24, Endure Elements; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24  d20+16=17 ;
Tuesday March 20th, 2018 8:27:48 AM
"Are you there, friend?" asks Kezzem. "It's me, Kezzem. There door is open now. Was that you? I'm going to assume that's an invitation to come in and talk unless you say otherwise."

Diplomacy: 17 (natural 1).

OOC: Ruh-roh!

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers 
Tuesday March 20th, 2018 2:14:18 PM
"You are so lucky you have looks to get by on," Pressi grumbles in response as she casts a lesser restore on Murphy.

From under a chair, Harper peeks her way out.

Pressi tries to figure out what had happened (not even sure what to roll) but nothing seems to come to mind and everyone else seems ready to move on. As they go through the back door, she checks to see if she can still detect thoughts.

She also makes a change into her own housecat form, looking to scout ahead as a relatively normal figure.

-----------

ritual grimalkin

shield of faith

L1 - 2
L2 - 2+1
read tattoo - 1/4
clair - 1/8

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 87/100. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements. Huge Earth Elemental 
Tuesday March 20th, 2018 4:51:24 PM

"Make that, 'rugged good looks,'" Murphy says with a rocky smile. He stands up, and says, "Sure, Hobie. Let's go."

He looks to see if he can fit through the doorway in his present form.

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle)  d20+20=26 ;
Tuesday March 20th, 2018 9:10:56 PM

Bliss blushes, turns into a kitty, and hops on Harper's tail, following him and MIss Pressi. He tries to smell enemies (scent).

Perception 26

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 87/100. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements. Huge Earth Elemental 
Tuesday March 20th, 2018 9:19:02 PM
If able, Murph will squeeze through the doorway, allowing any who wish to go before him, and going through ahead of any who choose to wait.

DM Ken, Welcome to Rattledam 
Tuesday March 20th, 2018 9:36:13 PM

Humble's shield opens the door behind the altar. It gives no resistance, and opens easily. Murphy is able to squeeze through with some moderate effort, and leaves jagged scratches on the door frame as he passes.

The room has some moderate creature comforts, such as a comfortable bed, a locked chest, a writing desk with papers scattered all about, and an overturned ink quill, which has stained the wood on the desk.

There are a couple paintings of a human man with long grey hair in a ponytail, one of which includes him kneeling, surrounded by small dark skinned creatures with bright white hair. Smaller than halflings, they have neutral expressions, and make a stark contrast to the smiling man in their picture.



Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 79/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2  d20+9=16 ; d20+8=24 ; d20+21=37 ;
Tuesday March 20th, 2018 10:27:15 PM
Hobie moves into the room and Detects Magic around the room. If anything is magical he will pay examine it with Spellcraft (37).

After detecting magic, he starts looking all around at the papers scattered about. He uses his linguistic knowledge (16) if the writings are in another language, and tries to recall his knowledge of religion (24) as he reads the papers.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 109/109, CMD 24, Endure Elements; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24 
Tuesday March 20th, 2018 11:24:51 PM
"I guess that creepy weird guy left," says Kezzem.

He inspects the room with his dececto-evil vision.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers  d20+20=24 ; d20+17=30 ;
Wednesday March 21st, 2018 9:45:39 AM
Moving back to her human form, Pressi looks over the documents, casting "comprehend languages" (domain spell) for better odds. She still has her read magic tatoo active from before.

Figuring that everyone else would look at the tapestries, Pressi makes her way to the locked chest. After checking for traps (Perception 24), she takes a stab at unlocking it (Disable 30).

(OOC: Sorry about the loose notes before, but I went through the archives and everything should be up to date by now.)

-----------

ritual grimalkin, shield of faith

rose control 16 hours
comprehend languages 80 minutes
read magic 75 minutes

L1 - 2+1
L2 - 2+1
read tattoo - 1/4
clair - 1/8


Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 87/100. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements. Huge Earth Elemental  d20+10=23 ; d20+25=45 ;
Wednesday March 21st, 2018 9:58:49 AM

Murphy decides he does not wish to damage any more doorways, and shapes back to his own halfling body. He assists Hobie and Pressi in looking over the documentation [Linguistics: 23].

If the dark-complected hoary headed diminutive people in the paintings bear any resemblance to Mahyawu, he says, "Manfri. Wonder who the man is? Cleric of Pantheon, perhaps? Anyone find any names among the papers? And, with the voice from this room earlier, I wonder, as well, what it was the scratchy voiced fellow sought here. He seemed to have found it. Where has he gone?"

With the last question lingering in his mind, he takes a break from reading, and looks for other exits from this room, other than the door they used. If there is a hidden door, or trap door, or other hidden compartment, there's a fair chance Murphy will discern it. [Perception: 45 (nat 20)]

DM Ken, Welcome to Rattledam 
Thursday March 22nd, 2018 10:01:00 AM

Hobie and Kezzem both inspect the room, looking for evil and magic. They find none of either. Kezzem continues to try to talk to the presence they all felt earlier, but no traces of it remain.

Pressi checks the locked chest, finds no traps, and with a bit of effort, is rewarded with a *click* as the old locks give and her picks find purchase. As the lid is opened, Hobies detect magic flares to life, and several items inside glow with the aura of magic.

1. A cracked monocle.
2. A bag of dust.
3. A pair of shoes.

There are other items here, a battered metal shield and sword, clothes, and a bottle of wine packed away carefully in thick padded cloth.

-------------------------------

The notes on the desk appear to be a letter...

"To the High Justicar,

You would be pleased with progress with the Manfri and the other subcultures of the Sargrass Plains. Our church membership has grown by four, after Oahawi and his family began attendance. While the Manfri eagerly learn the lessons of Pantheon, absorbing every story and token of wisdom in his teachings, they seem to care little for our religious dogma and observances of tradition. Passing the faith here requires a different set of lessons and methods, so I again ask for patience for the church and once more request extra funding.

On a slightly more disturbing matter, todays divinations of the routine sort were both dangerous and unsettling. Even the religious heads among the Manfri have sought my counsel, because they see the same things in their visions that I do. Fires. Meteorites. Smoke. Death.

Even so, the faithful will remain strong. I am meeting with the leaders of one of the monastic orders that have gained so much traction here in the Sargrass. The southern orders are a bit less xenophobic. Theo will be in charge while I travel. With the shoes, I can be there within the span of days instead of weeks. I will not give up this church or this quest, it is mine.

Still, the divinations were troublesome. Even now, I swear I can hear the screaming of the meteorites, the yells of people, and the roar of fires. It seems so real and... "

The last words are scratched out with obvious haste.

"Pantheon protect us!"

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 79/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2  d20+31=43 ; d20+31=40 ; d20+31=32 ;
Thursday March 22nd, 2018 10:44:01 AM
Hobie will pull out his wand of identify and use spellcraft to recognize the magical properties of these items.
(It says identify lasts three rounds, so will one charge get me all three items? If not i’ll use three charges)

Monocle: Spellcraft 43
Bag of Dust: Spellcraft 40
Shoes: Spellcraft 32


Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 87/100. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements. Huge Earth Elemental  d20+9=19 ;
Thursday March 22nd, 2018 1:27:30 PM

Apparently Murphy finds no hidden secret doors or compartments, having searched.

He considers what the letter has to say. As Hobie looks over the magic items, Murphy casts detect magic, and focuses upon the monocle for a few rounds. [Spellcraft 19]. If Hobie or someone else is able to identify the monocle, Murphy spends a little time trying to mend it, so that it may function again.

If he is successful at the mending, and no one is able to identify it, he will place it over his left eye, and spend a minute or so looking about the room.

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle)  d20+20=32 ;
Thursday March 22nd, 2018 3:43:16 PM

CatBliss walks under the bed and checks for things under there. He sniffs where the ink spilled. He hops up on the desk and reads the note.

Perception 32

He fishes around under the cloth under the bottle of wine.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers 
Thursday March 22nd, 2018 11:31:29 PM
As Pressi read the letter, a thought entered her mind. "Perhaps he was dictating."

More seriously, she considered her own attempts at divination.

She thinks about what the note might mean.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 109/109, CMD 24, Endure Elements; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24 
Friday March 23rd, 2018 12:57:56 PM
"I don't think those divinations did him any good," says Kezzem. "He should stick to more practical spells. He couls have gotten the same results of his divinations just by looking out his window.:

DM Ken, Welcome to Rattledam 
Friday March 23rd, 2018 5:18:06 PM

Murphy and Hobie work together to identify the items. It takes a bit of time, but they eventually have it all sorted out. The items are themselves seem to be created specifically for use in the Sargrass. Hobie uses 3 charges from his wand.

The shoes glow with an aura of transmutation. When worn, they seem to allow travel on top of the Sargrass blades, as if they were skating on ice.

The dust glows with an aura of divination. When a handful of it is thrown into the air, it leads you in direction of the nearest Manfri within one mile. There seems to be enough dust for three uses.

The cracked monocle is more difficult. It seems to be beyond full repair, but your efforts have made it at least usable. It seems to make you aware to a particular kind of threat, but one unknown outside of the Sargrass. What exactly that threat might be is unknown, but you get the feeling the monocle will make it fairly clear.

It puts heavy strain on the eye however, and for each round of use, the wearer takes 2 subdual damage.

-----------

Kezzem watches Bliss rummage through the chest, and the small cat comes up with nothing new other than a few dust mites on his whiskers.

-----------

Pressi reflects on what the scattered notes might mean. It seemed to be little more than a report on church activities abroad, and of course, a warning given too late about his divination. One line does seem to stick out to her however.

"I am meeting with the leaders of one of the monastic orders that have gained so much traction here in the Sargrass. The southern orders are a bit less xenophobic."

This bit is helpful as far as Pressi can tell, because they are supposed to be looking for the monks of Rattledam, so they could get their aid in extracting a crystal shard from the mountains native to the plains. She now at least has a direction and a terrain feature.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 79/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Friday March 23rd, 2018 8:38:13 PM
Hobie will follow the group where they go, trusting that Pressi can lead the way.

(For the next two days I'm going to be traveling. It's finally the day we move to Prague!! I envision myself having a lot of airport layover time, and should be able to post, but if I can't, just assume that Hobie is following the group, and if there are bad guys, Hobie will shoot them with his arrows.)

DM Query: Prague, Oklahoma?

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle) 
Friday March 23rd, 2018 9:00:25 PM

Bliss changes to a halfling, yawns, and asks, "Is it time to go to bed yet?

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 87/100. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements. Huge Earth Elemental  d20+25=29 ; d20+25=33 ; d20+25=42 ; d20+25=45 ; d20+25=30 ;
Friday March 23rd, 2018 10:35:17 PM

Murphy removes the monocle after a couple of rounds, and rubs his left eye. "It seems to be designed to warn about, about some sort of, some sort of Sargrassian threat." He presses his temples with the palms of his hand. "But it gives me a headache!"

If Hobie does not tell the others what they learned about the magic items, then Murphy does so.

"So, Pressi, what do you think? Do we want to plan to head toward the southern orders? Oh, and, if we do, I'd like us to take maybe an hour or so just to walk briskly through Rattledam before we leave. We're here now, who knows if we'll ever be back here, and I think we should absorb what we can about the place - might pick up more clues, or even supplies that could help us in this grassy place.

"Bliss, if you want to cat-nap, you can ride on my shoulders - as a cat. We've only been up for maybe an hour and a half, or two. Breakfast, spells, getting ready, and coming to this building did not take a full day." If Bliss seems inclined, and makes the change, Murph will let him get settled on his shoulders, wrapped around his neck if necessary. If not, then... whatever.

------
Perception: 29, 33, 42, 45, 30 - for a rapid exploration of the remainder of Rattledam

[May your move to Prague go well, and you and yours all roll with whatever comes your way. Congrats, Nick!]

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 79/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Friday March 23rd, 2018 10:53:54 PM
ooc: Prague, Czech Republic

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 109/109, CMD 24, Endure Elements; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24 
Saturday March 24th, 2018 12:06:25 AM
"We're here now, who knows if we'll ever be back here, and I think we should absorb what we can about the place - might pick up more clues, or even supplies that could help us in this grassy place," says Murphy

Kezzem bursts in laughter. "Oh wait," he says as he calms down. "You said grassy."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 87/100. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements. Huge Earth Elemental 
Sunday March 25th, 2018 3:05:15 PM
Murphy smiles at Kezzem's outburst of laughter. "Yes, um, grassy. Unless we find some beans."

Addressing all, he says, "So, if we've gathered what we may from this small room, let's tour the remainder of Rattledam quickly." Still puzzled as to why this room apparently has no more doors or passageways, when earlier it seemed the person who was speaking within seems to come from a distance - and disappeared without a trace - he nonetheless exits the door through which he earlier squeezed, this time causing no further damage to the frame, and proceeds to explore apace.

He heads first back towards the city entrance, then clockwise around the lower left block of buildings as shown on the Rattledam map, then similarly circles the upper left block, the upper right block, the lower right block, for the quick tour. He will be watching, listening, and observing. He will mark anything helpful or useful. Once the circuit is complete, Murphy asks if all are read to go exploring, taking the moored boat from the docks.

[Pull me back if that is too much exposition.]

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers 
Sunday March 25th, 2018 9:09:08 PM
"Sorry, still kind of out of it," Pressi replied sheepishly. "Remind me, was there a temple that the monks were supposed to be in, another location besides this one? Beyond that, I guess we can go forward as the letter implied."

Pressi shook her head, trying to think if anything would give an advantage over what befell this place. "It might not be a bad idea to try some careful scouting, maybe something like the arcane eye."

DM Carl - Welcome to Rattledam The Ruins of Rattledam 
Monday March 26th, 2018 10:11:41 AM
Good to be back, folks. Sincere, heartfelt thanks to Ken for stepping in during tax season. I've had a rough couple of weeks...

***

Humble's Sword is able to peruse the rest of Rattledam in peace. No spirits make themselves known, no dangerous critters have made their lairs in town, the only life here seems to be insects and the birds that prey on them.

Unless the party wants to start ransacking homes looking for silverware and jewelry, nothing of material value is found. They are able to get an idea of what life in Rattledam was like. An abundance of art can be found throughout the city. Several statues remain in good repair, though canvas and tapestries have not faired well in the environment of the Sargrass. There are also several small venues throughout town that were likely meant for live musical or theatrical performances.

Rattledam was obviously once an artist's paradise. There's enough culture left over here to keep an archeologist busy for a lifetime.

It's also of some note that there are few inns or other places for temporary lodging. That's not to say they were hostile to outsiders, but the town seems designed to be insular.

Pressi considers whether or not the monks they're seeking could have a temple elsewhere. From what they've found, it seems the temple they explored was run by the monks, and that they were followers of Pantheon. There's not enough information to know if all the monks of the Sargrass worshiped Pantheon.

***

That's about all to see in Rattledam, unless there's a thread Ken started that I've missed.

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle) 
Monday March 26th, 2018 1:04:29 PM

Bliss enjoys seeing the sights as much as anybody, sure. And there are interesting nooks and crannies for a cat to explore. And stuff to climb, like tapestries and things.

But eventually the novelty wears off, and the sooner because Bliss has a nagging guilty feeling that we need to be searching for something.

"Didn't the Manfri Man say that we had to find something?" asks Bliss. "Wowsy, oughtn't we better get to it?"

Bliss is thinking that the party has to find these monks. Isn't that what the clue said? And what are we looking for exactly?

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers 
Monday March 26th, 2018 10:04:02 PM
"No, you're right," Pressi replied. "There's only so much time we can spend wandering here and fantasizing about burning the place down. And I guess we're still supposed to be the good guys so no ransacking the silverware.

"I don't know what we are looking for, exactly. I'm hoping it will be clearly labeled. Not really sure what else we can do to be prepared but I can hop on my broom if people would like me to scout ahead."

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 109/109, CMD 24, Endure Elements; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24 
Tuesday March 27th, 2018 12:25:15 AM
Kezzem keeps his detect-evil-radar up and running as they search the town, looking to see if anything pings. He's being extra weary after that weird encounter at the Pantheon temple.

"But...what if the thing we are looking for is with the silverware," he says in reply to Pressi. "We would have to ransack the silverware then, for the greater good, but that would still be wrong, no?"

"Man, old Kezzem didn't have these problems."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 79/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Tuesday March 27th, 2018 3:02:31 AM
"I think that's a good idea Pressi. If you could fly ahead and look for signs of the next town, that could help us a lot."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 87/100. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements. 
Tuesday March 27th, 2018 6:46:08 AM

Murphy takes in the town along with his friends. "All right. We will look at their tableware. Maybe it's silver, or other metal. Maybe it's woven of grass. Let's see which." He looks in two dwellings, checks for tableware. If he finds some made of grass, he takes one set (knife, fork, spoon, or whatever makes up a one-person set), and leaves a gold piece in its place.

"Here, Kezzem. I paid for it. It's yours now."

Then, he agrees with Bliss. "Yes, we need to find the monks. They are not here, far as I can tell. Let's get on that grass boat, and head southward. If you, Pressi, want to fly up in the air a ways to look off into the distance, that's fine with me."

He considers, then says, "Likely we'll need to leave the ponies behind. I know what grass is good for them. Let's gather that, and leave them in a pen of sorts, with plenty of water, and hope we can get back here soon enough that they have not starved." He finds as many containers for water as he might, creates water to fill them full, and gets his friends to help him gather good grass and feed, and leave that for them as well.

When all are set and ready, Murphy is willing to help push off from the dock. "Let's see if we can sail this thing, eh?"


DM Carl - Welcome to Rattledam The Ruins of Rattledam 
Tuesday March 27th, 2018 12:15:10 PM
It's a good thing Murphy can create water. Dehydration is a very real threat out here on the Sargrass. He doesn't find any woven silverware. Bowls and plates, sure, but not utensils. Those are mostly wood. In fact, there's not a lot of silverware to be found. Metal is very uncommon in Rattledam.

...but enough of that place. The party shoves the boat off into the grass sea. It "floats" on top of the grass, sinking in only a few inches. It doesn't bob like a typical boat since there are no waves in the grass, but a good stiff breeze will shift the boat a few feet in that direction. Anyone skilled in sailing will be able to manage it. There are a pair of oars made from the same wood as the boat, but they don't seem to work like typical oars. Rowing in the grass doesn't accomplish much, but pushing against the grass from behind does seem to work.

***

Next steps are your call. If anyone's flying or using the shoes and not in the boat, I need to know. Otherwise I'm going to assume you're boating. If anyone has profession, sailor, make appropriate checks at a -2. There is enough room for everyone since you're just 4 halflings and a cat.

The only visible landmark is the Crystal Mountains to the north.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers  d20+19=33 ;
Tuesday March 27th, 2018 12:33:44 PM
If her own instincts or the team's urgings weren't enough to convince her to fly, a single look at that contraption certainly would have sealed the deal. Although, it's not like they would sink, right?

Casting flying broom (8 hour time), she hovers shortly ahead of the boat, peering outward into the grass below. (Perception 33, messaging to Murphy at all times) Every once in a while, she also casts detect magic to see if anything comes up, or uses prestidigitation to drop a small "stone" into the "water."


Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 87/100. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements.  d20+15=20 ;
Tuesday March 27th, 2018 6:33:04 PM

[In boat: 4 halflings as halflings, 1 leopard (Pressi's Harper - medium size, 120 lbs.). Harper is with us, right, Melvin? Flying: 1, on broom]

Murphy does bring along a few vessels which can hold water. Along with the wooden utensils, and woven plate and bowl for Kezzem, he scores an extra set for himself.

Before setting sail, he invites his friends to pray for wisdom and guidance on this journey. He himself does so, along with anyone else who so chooses.

The druid does know a fair amount about the winds. Not trained as a sailor, his main experience has been on a raft along the Peaseblossom for some distance, and tootling around in punts with oars on the river through town. However, he has heard of sailboats. He thinks it best to pole well away from the docks before trying the sails. When perhaps five hundred yards from shore, he thinks it's time to try sailing. Using knowledge, nature [20], for the wind side, he begins to try to puzzle out how to work with the wind and the set of the sails, and the position of the tiller.

Is the temperature still high? After Pantheon's symbol was righted, a cool breeze was felt. Is there any breeze? How much of one?

Murphy relays to those on the boat whatever it is that Pressi communicates with him which he thinks pertinent for them to know.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 109/109, CMD 24, Endure Elements; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24 
Tuesday March 27th, 2018 6:59:15 PM
"I think you may have overpaid there, Murph," says Kezzem.

"Well, that's more about sailing than I know," says Kezzem. "I can cut ropes with my daggers though! Um, just tell me which ones. Gosh, I feel useless when there aren't things to stab or talk to. Maybe I should check out the sails with my paladin-sense. That one over there looks particularly shifty."

Kezzem will detect evil on the boat.

OOC: Where are our horses? I can summon Rumpus, but the what about the others?

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle) 
Tuesday March 27th, 2018 10:19:53 PM

Bliss enjoys the ride!

The party is headed for the mountains, right?

Bliss hunts for rats and mice that may infest the ship.



Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 87/100. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements. 
Wednesday March 28th, 2018 12:29:39 AM

For Bliss: The mountains are North. The monks, apparently, South. So Murphy intends to head Southward, unless someone can explain why we should go to the mountains before we have the means to deal with the mountains..

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 79/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Wednesday March 28th, 2018 6:02:00 AM
Hobie is all for heading south toward the Monks.

(ooc: I'm sorry to post such short posts lately, I am very busy every day running around doing things to get settled here in Czech Republic, registering with the police, looking for apartments, getting cell phones etc. Once I'm settled, especially once I have my own apartment, I will have more time for consistent thoughtful posts)

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle) 
Wednesday March 28th, 2018 7:34:54 AM

Bliss meows in agreement. South to the monks. Do they have what we seek? he wonders. What are we looking for, anyway, Maybe it is a monk weapon or maybe a monkey.

DM Carl - Welcome to Rattledam The Ruins of Rattledam 
Wednesday March 28th, 2018 10:26:01 AM
There is indeed room for Harper in the boat, but not the ponies. Murphy set them up with sufficient food and water in Rattledam.

The party manually maneuvers the boat away from the dock before playing with the sails. There is a breeze, but it's hardly cool and warming quickly. Attempts are made to use the sails, but it's tougher than it looks.

This may seem like a pedantic question, but how are you determining what's north and south here in the Sargrass?

Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle) 
Wednesday March 28th, 2018 10:56:06 AM

Special: If you are trained in Survival, you can automatically determine where true north lies in relation to yourself.

Bliss thinks that he needs to get himself some survival one of these days! :-)

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers  d20=3 ; d20+12=29 ;
Wednesday March 28th, 2018 12:12:59 PM
Relentless Tracker: Pressi can add 8 to her tracking rolls to search for the monks but tips them off that she’s tracking.

Survival Roll for north 7, to track:29

Also need more survival, esp for warding ritual

Harper is on the boat eyeing the grass warily.



Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 79/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Wednesday March 28th, 2018 5:06:30 PM
(didn't we somehow know that the mountains were North? So wouldn't sailing away from them take us south?)


Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 87/100. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements.  d20+14=24 ; d20+12=20 ; d20+15=32 ; d20+25=36 ;
Wednesday March 28th, 2018 6:48:04 PM

We can tell which way is north because the DM post told us we can see the Crystal Mountains to the north :-) ... Actually, both what Cayzle mentioned (Murphy has +12 on survival), and, Murphy has the, I realize now, redundant cantrip of know direction. I think I'll substitute another cantrip from here on out, since survival covers it.
Regarding sailing... Murphy, though not a sailor, is a fairly bright fellow (Int 16, Wis 18). Combining knowledge, engineering at 24, survival at 20, and knowledge, nature at 32, and using his perceptive (36) abilities to observe what happens when he does this, or that, or the other, I'm hoping that within an hour or two of experimentation, he and the rest of the crew (Hobie- Int, Str & Dex 18; Bliss- Int 16, Str 20, Dex 16; Kezzem Dex 20); will be able better to fathom and/or figure out how to this grassboat slides over the verdant sea, benefitting from the wind, the set of the sails, the tiller (or someone manning an oar to serve the role of a tiller), and the complex math and physics that make it all work.

"Anyone know any sailing songs?" Murphy asks as he fiddles with the sails.

He relays to Pressi things they are puzzling out on the boat and its accoutrements.

DM Ken: Being a wise and bright fellow who knows about the wind and nature and such is fine, but it's also not a substitute for ranks in the ability that governs the ability to sail skillfully. If such were the case, all skills would be some sort of ability check, with no real divisions or ranks to govern them.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 109/109, CMD 24, Endure Elements; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24 
Wednesday March 28th, 2018 7:56:39 PM
OOC: Kezzem intends to decipher which way is north via Murphey. He will toss bim in the air, and whichever way his head points is north.

Will post more later.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 109/109, CMD 24, Endure Elements; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24 
Wednesday March 28th, 2018 9:34:09 PM
"Have you heard of Tommy the fox,
He worked down at the docks,
He had to take a hike,
For the union's on strike,
Down on his luck like he had thr pox."

"Have you heard of Gina the fey,
At the tavern she worked all day,
Though she ate from a can,
She worked for her man,
And always brouht home her pay."

"They had to hold on to ehst they got,
It didn't matter if they were ready or not,
They had seach other,
That a lot to pother
For love they gave it a shot."

"To pay their bills they were halfway there,
You might say there were living on a prayer,
They struggle and fought,
For all that they got,
But in the end they make it I swear."



Bliss / CatBliss (AC26, HP92of96) (Cayzle)  d20+5=9 ;
Thursday March 29th, 2018 10:41:23 AM

Bliss changes into a halfling, claps his hands, and dances to Sir Kezzem's song ... Perform 9. He falls down.

"Funny, I used to be a better dancer, I think. Back when Mookie was alive."

He shifts back to a cat and stands at the prow of the boat. He yowls! If you understand the speech of cats, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {"I'm The King Of The World!"}

DM Carl - Welcome to Rattledam The Ruins of Rattledam 
Thursday March 29th, 2018 11:41:30 AM
Those who know how to read the motion of the sun, as well as other means of locating north, confirm that the mountains are indeed north...until Murphy brings out a know direction spell which says they're to the south.

It's hard to say which is right. Magic is affected here, but it's a whole other plane of existence. Who's to say which is correct. Maybe tracking by the stars will help, but it's morning. In the meantime, Humble's Sword has a choice to make about what direction is correct.

***

Yea, I know. This is stupid. I'm trying to avoid a situation that happened in Hook City, so please trust me and play along.

Regarding sailing without the profession, here's my official verdict: If the wind is blowing in the direction you want, it's easy enough to hold the sail open and move. It's like flying a plane that's already in the air, just gotta hold the yoke steady and make small corrections. Where you're going to get into trouble is with anything apart from ideal conditions. Avoiding boulders, docking, rough weather...anything like that is going to be difficult to handle. Those will require untrained profession rolls, which are capped at 10. I can pretty much guarantee you'll run into those situations.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 109/109, CMD 24, Endure Elements; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 62/62, CMD 24 
Thursday March 29th, 2018 7:14:14 PM
"So north is south now?" asks Kezzem. "What is this? What's next? Dogs and cats living together?"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers 
Thursday March 29th, 2018 10:22:00 PM
At Bliss' words, Harper chuckles.

Pressi casts guidance from time to time to help with untrained rolls. She asks if she could cast locate creature (manfri).

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 87/100. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements. 
Friday March 30th, 2018 3:37:46 AM
Murphy addresses everyone. "I was mistaken. We want to head toward the Crystalmist; that is where north lies around here. If you think you are looking south, then you're likely looking toward the north. You think that's west?" he asks, pointing in the direction he surmised only a few moments before to be the westerly direction. "Uh-uh. That's east."

He works with others to try to get the boat to come about, and travel towards the mountains.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 87/100. Freedom of Movement. Endure Elements.  d20+25=34 ;
Friday March 30th, 2018 9:55:55 AM

As they travel over the grass, Murphy observes to see if there are various species of vegetation. As no one else has tried the shoes they found in the cleric's chamber, Murphy slips them on his feet, ties a silk rope to the boat, and lets others know he's going to try walking on the grass. "And please haul me in if I slip below it, fast!"

At first tentative, he works to get a feel for how the footwear functions.

If this goes well, he will take a moment when he comes upon a new type of vegetation and use his knife to get small samples - hoping the process of doing so does not provoke a grassy attack in return. The samples he uses to help him discern how he might wild shape into such plant forms. The druid spends about half an hour in this pursuit before reboarding (unless something untoward occurs in the interim). Then he gets the thought - how well might I be able to pull this boat? Since he is attached to it, he lets those on board know, then tries to skate ahead, rope about his waist, to see if he can increase the speed of the craft as he and it glide over the verdant surface.

After a while, he asks, "Would someone else like to try this, too?" If so, back on board he transfers the shoes to whoever volunteers.

Mr DM Carl - feel free to make whatever skill roles for Murphy you think might be applicable. Perception: 34

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 80/80. Endure Elements.  d8+1=8 ; d8+1=9 ;
Friday March 30th, 2018 10:53:13 AM

Oh, and at some point, he bips himself with two applications of the wand of Cure Light Wounds, bringing his hit points back up to full.

And, a further thought - if there are leaves of the plants floating separately, unattached from the main plant, he will take those rather than cutting, where possible.

[sorry for multiple posts - I usually try to gather things, thoughts, together before making a single post. My time has been very fragmented the past few days.
----------
ALSO: I may need someone to post for Murphy this coming week. Am working full time, and taking a 28-hour class. Any volunteers?

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 79/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Saturday March 31st, 2018 8:29:22 AM
(Guys I'm so sorry I haven't been posting, with all the new culture moving stuff this has just completely escaped my mind. I'm gonna catch up now and make a post for Hobie)


Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 79/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2 
Saturday March 31st, 2018 8:42:53 AM
Hobie helps out as best he can with maneuvering the boat. He has no experience with sailing, but he tries where he can.

He keeps his bow at the ready, looking out into the distance for anything that could possibly be a threat.

DM Carl - Welcome to Rattledam The Ruins of Rattledam  d4=2 ; d20+14=17 ;
Sunday April 1st, 2018 9:23:43 AM
Once that nonsense with the directions in this place is sorted out, the party starts their movement towards the mountains. Quick check of the wind (generated by a D4), shows it blowing west. Without a trained sailor on board, the best the sails can manage is a vaguely southwestern direction. It gets them closer to the mountains, but not very quickly. With some perseverence, the party will be able to make it to the mountains, but maybe the oars will be quicker until the wind changes?

The party makes it roughly an hour out. Rattledam has officially faded from view, making the Crystal Mountains the lone landmark in the entire Sargrass. Murphy decides to test out the shoes. It is surprisingly easy to walk on the Sargrass with the shoes. They don't appear magical, the grass just seems to naturally repel them. At a slight 45lbs, Murphy finds he walks just a few millimeters above the grass. Moving full speed requires some balance, but a decent enough speed can be managed regardless.

(Acrobactics check DC 15 to move full speed, otherwise move half speed).

With a lifeline attached, Murphy tests out dragging the boat. Unfortunately, the lack of fiction provided by walking just above the grass offers Murphy no leverage to tow. He basically walks in place, held back by the boat.

A sudden pull on the rope and the boat lurches forward (reflex save DC 10 or fall prone in the boat. Nat 1 means you've fallen overboard). Looking out, Murphy is no where to be seen, but the rope (pulled taut) is leading under the grass.

Murphy ONLY, Highlight to display spoiler: {down here in the grass, it's hard to tell, but you'd swear the grass itself is attacking you. No damage, and the grapple attempt against you was weak enough for you to escape from without too much difficulty. (grapple check 17 vs your CMB of 19 - enough to catch you flat footed, but not enough to hold you once you start wiggling).}

We're in combat rounds right now.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 79/82 AC 25 CMD 27 Hero Points 2  d20+8=24 ; d20+15=20 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+9=15 ;
Sunday April 1st, 2018 2:22:22 PM
Hobie feels the lurch of the boat but manages to keep himself upright.
He quickly moves to the front of the boat and looks to where Murphy was, where the rope leads under the grass, and tries to look for Murph (Perception 20)

He tries to think through his studies for anything that might be relevant to what is happening
(Knowledge Planes 13, Knowledge Nature 15)

======
Spells Prepared
Bonded Object Free Spell

0 Level
Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Message, Mending

1st Level
Grease, Shocking Grasp, Obscuring Mist, Summon Monster 1, Feather Fall

2nd Level
Mirror Image, Invisibility, Invisibility, Cat's Grace

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a (Kim) AC 26 HP 80/80. Endure Elements. 
Sunday April 1st, 2018 11:51:21 PM

Murphy telepathically communicates with Pressi that he is all right, just pulled under by the local plants. "I'm going to see if I can somehow communicate with them. So, I'm changing into some sort of Sargrassian grass - just like the ones you see around you. Try not to attack them."

He wild shapes into a huge version of the surrounding plants which make up the local grass which is pulling him under.

[+8 size bonus to your Strength, a –2 penalty to your Dexterity, a +4 size bonus to your Constitution, and a +6 natural armor bonus] [Am already going through eight hours of prep time for class, don't have time to look up all effects of these items. CAN SOMEONE HELP OUT? SWAMPED THIS WEEK!]

Murphy will attempt to communicate with plants. We are not here to harm you. We want to help save the Sargrass, both flora and fauna, and to save our world. Can you help us? We need to move toward the mountains that way," he tries to convey to them.

[To DM Carl: please feel free to request skill rolls - and go ahead and make them on Murphy's behalf if it will save time. I may have close to zero time to do any of that this week.]

ADM Kim 
Sunday April 1st, 2018 11:52:16 PM

Can someone post for Murphy this week? -asks Kim


Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers 
Monday April 2nd, 2018 7:03:59 AM
Yeah I should have no problem posting.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 82/83, CMD 20; Harper-AC 21, HP 56/61, CMD 23; Followers  d20+4=24 ;
Monday April 2nd, 2018 3:15:21 PM
To DM: Before I roll Murphy's skill rolls, I need a ruling as to whether he can communicate with the grass by turning into the grass.

--------------------

(Pressi and Harper saves: no fail)

Harper growls and wags her tail menacingly (Intimidate Natural 20)

Pressi is less than thrilled about this turn of events, thinking he'd be better off doing... well, lots of things, really. She does fire a guide gaze, however, that gives Murphy a +2 to his next skill rolls.

-----------

ritual grimalkin, shield of faith

rose control 14 hours
comprehend languages 20 minutes
read magic 15 minutes
flight 7 hrs

L1 - 2+1
L2 - 2+1
L4 - 1
read tattoo - 1/4
clair - 1/8
guide - 1

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