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Sky Dancer
Scene 0 - The Tower Stands Tall


ADM Kim - Friendship Kinship 
Thursday July 12th, 2018 9:34:39 PM
Friendship Kinship®

"As you wish, sweetheart," Lois replies to Kezzem. "We don't get to choose our blood kin who've come before us, or from sideways. But, when life is good, sometimes we can choose those whom we call brother and sister, aunt or granny. I term that 'Friendship Kinship™'"

When Bliss reveals his provenance, Farley and Lois look at each other, his eyebrows raised, and she claps her hands in glee. "Oh, a good reincarnation can be fascinating and sometimes even scintillating!" She actually wiggles in her soft chair. "Thank you. I know some might be afraid to tell that sort of thing." Then she adopts a stern, stentorian voice. "I command you, Bliss of harpies and liontaurs, you are NOT to fear me!" Then she switches to a more normal tone, and says, "So, eat some more! And there will be pie is for dessert."

When Zaragoza claims to have no kin, she asks, "What, then? Parthenogenesis? Were you also reincarnated? Otherwise - even with those two - everyone has kin. You think you just popped into existence without father or mother? And that there are no relatives, distant or near, anywhere else? Pish-posh. Now, you may not know who your kin may be. I'd still guess you have free-stater somewhere in your background. Please, would you be so kind as to tell me your name?" She holds up her hands. "I am sorry - I don't mean to press unduly - and you don't have to answer any of my questions, unless you are willing."

To Talia, Farley says, "Linnea is a girl who lived sometimes in town, sometimes at Buddy's Falls. Her folks took her to Angel Springs a few years back. Have not heard from them since." He pulls out a pipe and tobacco, sprinkles it into the bowl, and tamps it down. "You do look like her - at least on her mother's side, I reckon. Punkin'," he continues, apparently addressing his wife, "I'm thinkin' - look here at her philtrum." He asks Talia, "Mind if we look at your ears? Don't mean to be treatin' you like a goat at the fair, lass. Just we have a specialty few in the Wold have, and this is the way we riddle some things out."

Lois asks Talia for her full name.

As dinner draws to a close, Lois tells Talia, "We may be able to tell you more, in due course. Be patient as you can. We'll get word to you, dearie."

=======
DM Ken Eubanks is taking over now. Feel free to wrap up any last posts or notes about our recent activities, then let's get rolling with this new module, Sky Dancer!

DM Ken: Construction Complete. 
Thursday July 12th, 2018 9:37:46 PM

Humbles Sword has been busy. They've saved the world, killed their first dragon, and taken a trip to meet some old people with an uncanny knack for sniffing out Halfling bloodlines. They've worked with Foreman George, gotten their headquarters on track, and purchased materials for The Spire.

A few weeks pass, and progress is made. The halflings receive some some unexpected help, when a pack of air elementals start heaving around construction supplies, adding an unexpected source of free labor. A small trio of clerics also find their way to town, claiming to be repaying a debt to the Elder Air Elemental who treated with Humbles Sword. They bring both spellpower and followers of Lord Eberyon, all of whom seem to belong to his small, but official church.

The Spire is nearly finished to Murphy's specifications, with only a few final days of construction remaining.

Foreman George also has news, its seems a mysterious donation has come in from some very affluent benefactors, and their headquarter has been not only paid in full, but can be rushed to be completed in just a few more days, as a literal army of contractors and builders stream into Humbles Ford.



The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Friday July 13th, 2018 7:29:03 AM
Zaragosa only treated Lois with a kind smile. When she was finished talking, he also gives a soft laugh. "No no, you have been nothing but kind. Perhaps I should have said 'I don't know any kin anywhere'. A Free Stater sounds very noble, or at least I hope. If so I would be proud to be related to it, but that is not my last name. I am Zaragosa. J.T.T. Zaragosa, escape artist extraordinaire. You may ask any questions you like. You are no bother at all but are in fact quite charming. Thank you both for your hospitality."

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Friday July 13th, 2018 10:07:36 AM
“Talia, If you would like, I can escort you to Angel Springs”, Succotash stammers, “May be we can learn more about your past?”

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Friday July 13th, 2018 2:22:52 PM
"Well, you seem to know a lot of things about people," says Kezzem to Lois. "Have you heard anything about former Sword members? We were just talking about Shel and Alleah the other day and were wondering what the two of them were up to."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23 
Friday July 13th, 2018 2:58:41 PM
Pressi basically just hangs back, letting the new guys ask their questions.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Friday July 13th, 2018 8:08:36 PM
Talia, explains to Ms. Lois that she knows of no other name except "Talia". As for looking at my ears, sure...you can look at almost anything you'd like, but if it calls for me to disrobe, I'd have to do so in private and only with Ms. Lois, if that would be alright.

Hrm...Linnea...what an interesting name! Are her parents still around? Perhaps I could visit them and see what they think?

Oh, Mister Slenderstick, if you'd like to escort me that would be fine. I wouldn't think I'd need protecting, but if you feel that would be appropriate...you can do so.Mister Murphy, would you be coming as well to Angel Springs?

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (Kim) HP 85/85 
Friday July 13th, 2018 8:37:03 PM

Murphy observes and listens. "Talia, I am willing to come to Angel Springs with you - but, if you'd like my company there, we may need to wait until after the spire is raised for me to keep a promise - and there are a few other pressing obligations I have. Could be a few weeks or so. I know you are anxious to learn what you can. I should like to help. If you can wait, then, when I can, I will help, to the best of my ability."

ADM Kim - Wrapping it up with the Applebarrels  d20+30=50 ; d20+30=38 ;
Friday July 13th, 2018 9:31:59 PM
As night is coming on, the Applebarrels offer to allow the group to bunk at their place. "It'll be cozy, and some will need to sleep out here, but there's room."

If anyone rolls a Perception check DC 50 after dinner, let me know, and I'll let you know something. [2nd roll was a finger hiccup]

Farley tells Zaragosa a few things about the Free States which surround the kingdom of Aisildur. He and Lois discuss the latter, and the dominant role of the god Ga'al and the priesthood down through the years. "Things have eased up in some ways over time, but, I for one am thankful not to live in that part of the Wold. The Free States provided a place for those trying to escape the oppression under Ga'al."

"Shel Breezelee Kromnite, niece of Bazeck Breezelee - the wizard of the Second Dinner Club who was lost to a hunter's arrow in Kashmar? Bazeck was her mother's brother, one of them. She is a sorceress. She grew up in Humble's Ford. One of the original members of your group, as I recall," answers Lois. "So, you know all that. From what I heard, after trying to deal with some white shirts, she and Alleah came back to the Ford, took a few hours to gather their possessions. Shel spoke with her parents. Word is they had a strong disagreement with someone in the group," and here she gives a sideways glance to Murphy, with a touch of sorrow in her eyes, "and said they felt it was time to travel elsewhere for a time. They headed towards Angel Springs. I have not heard word of them since then - not so long a time ago it was. A few months. Maybe Shel's folks know. As for Alleah - she went by several 'family' names. Dirtfist. Lighttouch. Highhill. Heathertoe. Maybe others. From Dirt City, she is. Quite a talent, she." She looks at Bliss, and lifts her hand toward him, palm up. "He can tell you more, like as not, right, son of Vauhwyt?"

Lois also tells the group, "We have no great powers, other than what we have been able to learn through the years. Except that Farley does have some light divination abilities." She plucks a hair from her head. Farley does likewise. "If you need help some time, you may try to reach us. If we can help, we will. If we cannot," and she shrugs. "These hairs may help you reach us. If you want something else of ours, just ask. If you would like to leave something of yours to help us, then, we have a special place for that."

"So, take your rest here tonight. We will serve you breakfast," Lois offers. "I am afraid, after that, we have some other things to see to. Hope the rains let up some for you on the morrow."

Farley lets Succotash know that he has some food he will provide for his pig, and goes to carry out that chore. Farley shows Succotash a WLA pin as they go to look after Miss Piggy.

The rains do not let up on the morrow, but will that stop our intrepid adventurers from returning to Humble's Ford?
===========
Now returning you to Humble House, the Spire, and whatever is to come next...

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Friday July 13th, 2018 10:20:53 PM
When Farley shows Succotash his WLA pin, he inturn shows his saying, “I just joined myself, if you’re a member, I bet you have some tales to tell”.

ADM Kim - Wrapping it up with the Applebarrels 
Saturday July 14th, 2018 1:47:59 PM
Farley laughs, "Sure enough, sure enough. There was the time I was turned in to a frog - stuck that way for 'bout a month. Developed an appreciation for flies for a bit. Developed a certain... respect for wizards with wands." He carries two buckets. "Found my wife, 'cause she gave me a kiss. She's a real looker, I'll tell ya." As he tosses out limp leafy greens, radishes, turnips, leftover boiled beets, corn and the like, he says, "I was a psion. Not many of those in the Wold. Never got myself too far in the adventuring life. Left it after the amphibious turn, know what I mean?" As Piggy digs in to the grub, the old halfling says, "Always nice to see fella WLA folk. Sure you have stories, I'll bet."

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Saturday July 14th, 2018 2:46:32 PM
“Been through a lot, no question about it”, Succotash responds to Farley, “Nothing that I would consider mentioning, until recently”. “After my party, a temporary party mind, was wiped out in the Sargrass, by some creatures known as Tall Men, I met the Swords, and life got real interesting, what with saving the Wold, who knew that playing a drum could help, to slaying a dragon, it’s been one heck of a ride!”

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle) 
Saturday July 14th, 2018 6:39:10 PM

Bliss sticks out his hand politely. He too is glad to meet a fellow member of the WLA.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Sunday July 15th, 2018 9:16:59 PM
Zaragosa listened to Farley talk about the Free State. He was a bit embarrassed to think it was a surname since the two mentioned family names with the rest. "I sure hope I am a descendant from such a people. Nothing would make me happier to stand for such freedoms. Thank you for sharing this with me."

Zaragosa would be very grateful for the stay that night and the breakfast offered the next morning, however, he would not let the rain stop him from leaving if that was the wish of the rest of the group



Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Sunday July 15th, 2018 11:09:17 PM

Murphy asks J.T.T. Zaragosa, "Say, JTT - What does the 'J' stand for? And the two Ts?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Monday July 16th, 2018 12:18:29 AM

Oh, and Murphy plucks a couple of his hairs, and bites off a bit of the tip of his fingernail from his left hand pinkie (I know, ooh, gross!), to give to the insightful couple before they leave. He suggests that, if his friends want to be able to be contacted by them, they do something similar likewise. He writes his name on a little piece of paper, and rolls the paper so as to contain the hair and fingernail clipping, then adds his initials to the outside of the piece of paper. "There you go!"

He takes more paper, looks at the two hairs they gave him. "All right, the long one is from Missus Lois, the short one from Mister Farley." He writes such on the paper, carefully folds it so as to enclose the hairs, and places them in a pouch, which he keeps in his pants o' plenty pocket.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Monday July 16th, 2018 4:37:37 AM
Succotash also plucks a couple of hairs and rolls them up in some paper, and after writing his name on the paper he hands it to Farley and Lois saying, “No sure why you would need to contact me, but, just in case, here you go “.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Monday July 16th, 2018 9:57:22 AM
When asked by Murphy , Zaragosa would have tried to hide his answer, either while waiting until the hosts leave or just leaning towards Murphy "My first name is Jack though I prefer Zaragosa, a name I gave myself," Zaragosa would answer, "It sounds good while performing, sound important. The 'T.T.' also sounds important. They are really just letters. J.T.T. Zaragosa sounds more amazing that Jack Zaragosa."

Zaragosa (Jack) didn't really like giving out this information since he was trying to spread the word of his surname. He did, however, want the Humble Sword to trust him so he wanted to be as fully honest as he could.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Monday July 16th, 2018 12:46:07 PM
Talia is not 100% understanding the two (2) hairs and some fingernail clippings, but she complies as Mister Murphy seems to think its a good idea, so Talia plays along. She carefully wrapping "her" materials up in a sheet of paper she pulls out of her Haversack. Then neatly folding the paper into a container, hand the package to Mister Murphy.

Returning Home
Mister Murphy, "What are our plans to return back to the Humble House?"

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle) 
Monday July 16th, 2018 12:56:33 PM

Bliss is enjoying the conversation, although he finds it a little hard to follow. His new Intelligence headband is giving him lots of other things to think about, like whether that Giant Tower will ever be fixed, and how to fix it, and why the Second Breakfast Club seems so gosh darn incompetent or corrupt or both.

Bliss also thinks about his followers and Humble House and whether they will be safe while the Humble Swords are adventuring.

It does not take much thought, but Bliss sure does enjoy the spread too! Mmmm ... breakfast. Actually, those boiled beets look tasty too ...

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23 
Monday July 16th, 2018 3:49:21 PM
Pressi is less than thrilled as person after person gives up their hairs to these potential strangers, even if they did put them at ease or offer assistance. Call it the paranoia easily earned after a night with Garron, another trustworthy leader who offered aid. Or call it the recognition of a true divination expert just what they had given up.

Still, the group had made their decision. So she gave her hairs in turn, and made sure to hold on to the hairs that were proffered by them, just in case. (Along with whatever thoughts she reads as she blasts them with her detect thoughts spell.)

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

As things begin to wrap up (except for her catacombs purchases, which will never arrive), she wonders herself what the next step is.

DM Ken: A strange request. 
Monday July 16th, 2018 5:50:29 PM

With only a few days remaining until all their construction is complete, Mayor Bumbleluck comes knocking on Hobie's door. When answered, he asks the fellow a bit nervously.

"Hobie, do you think you could gather your fellows and meet me in the back room of the Belly Buster? Now that things are slowing around down here, we need to put out word for a bit of a .. well.. that can wait for all of you."

He smiles again.

"If you could please gather Humbles Sword. There is something I would like to ask them. Tonight at 7 sharp!"

He leaves, mumbling to himself.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Monday July 16th, 2018 11:26:18 PM
"Why do they always say 7 sharp?" wonders Kezzem. "As opposed to 7 dull? What does that even mean?"

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3  
Tuesday July 17th, 2018 12:51:03 AM
"Absolutely, Mayor. I shall make sure each member is there at 7pm on the nose. We have two new members as well, have you met them yet? Talia and Zaragosa? Oh and Good Succotash Slenderstick, he's been staying with me here in Roscoe's home, have you met him yet? Well if you haven't, we'll make introductions tonight. I think they will all be valuable additions to our party."

Hobie saddles up his pony, Pippa, and rides off to find each member of Humble's Sword. He will tell each member more or less the same message.

"Friend, Mayor Bumbleluck wants to talk to us about something tonight at seven. I told him we'd all meet him at the Belly Buster, so make sure you are there. I'm not sure what he needs, but he seemed nervous to ask, so it's probably something difficult."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Tuesday July 17th, 2018 6:15:19 AM

Murphy thanks Jack 'T.T.' Zaragosa for letting him know his personal naming scheme. "I really like the name Jack - but I'll call you what you want me to."

He thanks the elderly Applebarrows for their information and hospitality. He does ask them to place the personal artifacts they provided in a safe place, "Unlikely to be found easily by others." And, he is pleased that Farley is a WLA member.

He tells Talia, "Our plans are to walk back to the Humble House in the rain, in the morning." Of course, by now, that already has happened, as of about a week and a half ago.

The druid shares Bliss's concerns about when the giant tower will be rebuilt, if ever. And, yes, he has questions about the competence of the Second Dinner Club. "They have been through a good deal of difficult times. They lost a key member, who was replaced by a fairly clever saboteur. I really wish I could get in touch with my cousin, Grigory Hamwich Fern Pipewood Trufflefinder, who is quite a potent wizard. I think he is trying to remain retired, though."

"Perhaps we just need to have permanent guardposts and long-distant communications set up, in case those giants decide again to come southward."

He is pleased how the second prototype of the spire came out. "Say, Pa, we should maybe put that up somewhere in town. Or, we could put it over at our group's new place. We still seem to be stumbling around exactly what to call it, and the new people are in particular mixed up with Bliss's trying to change the name we had since we first started out. On the other hand, Bliss does seem to be gaining some smarts in general, which is a good thing. And he has finally learned, pretty much, to understand the Halfling tongue." He looks over the mockup, too, of the mold, the levers, the guide ropes, the tilting slide, the liquid-filled landing framed spot designed to cushion and dampen the speed of the descending spire's deep base. "You still manage to keep me amazed, father."

Just before the call to meet over at the Belly Buster, he was gathering stones for the central building on the site. He plans to build that up, then Pressi's Tower. "Thanks, Hobie. I'll be there." The outer walls will have to wait until after that, but should not be overly difficult. He is feeling more and more comfortable with the various construction processes, and in particular his own work in stone. He has passed on his huge gratitude to all those who have pitched in to help both with their compound, as well as the Air Elemental Spire project. He would love to get to know some of their benefactors better.

The Belly Buster is his favorite restaurant, despite the fact that since the early days of the group, most seem to have gravitated to the Pig. The Pig is a place for drinking and revelry. Murphy has a greater measure of appreciation for the fine and subtle sauces of the cooks at the Buster, the amazing dishes, the presentation. He arrives at the Buster about half an hour early. He expresss a measure of appreciation for the inn's fine food, and his enjoyment of it down through the years. He asks for a couple of his favorite dishes so his friends can enjoy them here a bit later.

He wonders at one thing Lois asked him to do, and is trying to figure out just how to handle it.

His friends come rolling in at 'seven sharp,' and the Mayor a short time before. He appreciates in at least some measure some of the challenges that a halfling would have in governing the town. He prays for the Mayor, silently, before they begin. When all have arrived and are more or less ready, Murphy says, "Thank you, Mister Mayor, for asking us here. How may we better serve Humble's Ford?"

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Tuesday July 17th, 2018 7:53:16 AM
Upon hearing the news from Hobie, Succotash saddles and armorers Miss Piggy, than asks for assistance in donning his armor. When he is full ready, he decides to make a good first impression on the mayor, and arrives at the Belly Buster, a half hour early. Slightly shocked to see Murphy already there, he walks over and sits down by the Druid, and asks, “any idea what’s going on?”

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Tuesday July 17th, 2018 9:46:04 AM
At the end of the conversation with Murphey, Zaragosa tells him that he has nothing against the name Jack nor the nickname JTT that this group has found. He will happily answer to any of them gladly. However, Zaragosa will always tell strangers that is name is J.T.T Zaragosa, if not only to spread his performing name.

When the mayor asks the group to assemble (directed by Joss Whedon), he would follow his teammates out. As a newcomer, he would let the others do the talking as he would be the 'new guy in the back' for now. Why would he make any decisions? He didn't even know who the free staters were and they were his own people (perhaps?). Unless something truly offended him, he would keep quiet and let the group decide what to do after the mayor spoke.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23 
Tuesday July 17th, 2018 10:40:42 AM
There isn't much to say, except for the typical jokes about the mayor's sexuality and how in the time he told us to meet with him, he could have just told us. (Ok, sometimes we have a guest speaker, but still...)

Also, apparently it's time to hold off on some of the crazy. At least until the new fellas get a chance to reveal their crazy stuff as well. Maybe hold off on the unkind words towards the Belly Buster.

(OOC notes to new guys: While most PCs are more or less unitarian in their bar, Pressi is a Dancing Pig ex-employee. Also, a lot of strange background notes and characters get thrown around, and even us old timers need to occasionally look them up in or out of character. So don't be afraid to ask questions if some reference goes way over your head.)

One of the crazy stuff she can't place a lid on: her morning routines. A drop of blood catch to energize her powers. A couldron ritual attempt to buff herself up. (Rolls will be made if something like combat comes up, but for now it's the rituals of Warding and probably share spell with bliss.) Some discussions with the followers, feed and exercise the giant cat, check her equipment, pray insult comedy at her god, get insulted in return... pretty much as every morning.

And assume she does whatever needed to be done with the town, too.

(OOC Note: I will be traveling the rest of the week, so if anyone could post for Pressi, I would appreciate it.)

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Tuesday July 17th, 2018 11:38:10 AM
Talia will follow the group to the arranged meeting place, "Belly Busters", wherever that is?!

Before going, Talia will take all of her belongings, as she doesn't know what to expect. She will also make sure to sleep for 2 hours before the journey. to the "Belly" eatery.

I guess next time we're back, I'll ask if there is a place for me & my stuffs on the Humble House.

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle) 
Tuesday July 17th, 2018 4:31:52 PM

On the topic of names, Bliss mentions his old Uncle Warrick the Vulture used to tell stories by a human with a name like Zargy's ... what was that ... JRR Tolgosa, maybe? He was a human but he told great stories about halfling heroes. Great stories!

Bliss goes to the meeting, of course, happy to hear of some way the group can serve to help people. "I bet I know what it's about," he says. "I bet the mayor has a plan to fix the Giant Tower once and for all! Wowsy, wouldn't that be great?"

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Tuesday July 17th, 2018 6:18:16 PM
OOC: "Succotash saddles and armorers Miss Piggy, than asks for assistance in donning his armor" I sounds like he's asking Miss Piggy to assist him with his armor? That is some pig!

DM Ken: A strange request. 
Tuesday July 17th, 2018 8:10:07 PM

The Heroes of Humble gather together at the Belly Buster, entertained with some of Murphy's favorites. They are served beer and water, cheese, crackers, bacon, sausages, and everything else Murphy requested. He might be surprised to find that the Mayor has already footed the bill. When Mayor Bumbleluck finally arrives, he sheepishly asks everyone to finish eating, and he grabs a plate for himself.

It doesn't take long before he finally can't seem to hold in his request.

"Ah.. ehm. My dear heroes. I am afraid I haven't called you here simply for social nicety. While your nearly finished tower is a marvel of marvels and might serve to place Humbles Ford on many maps for many years, I am afraid I might ask you for something else."

He smiles, then rubs his belly.

"It's hard, you see. It wasn't long ago that you lot were tiny little spuds, running amok and playing at hero. Now though, well, you've helped save the whole Wold, right and proper. And that makes those of us here used to leaning on you feel.. like.. perhaps we might be wasting your time."

He fidgets a little more, then adds.

"Why would you lot see fit to help a fat mayor with a personal problem, for example, when the whole wide world needs you help? I just ... "

He reaches into his pack and fishes out a bag of coins. "My dear father has finally pressured me enough to marry. I suppose in my forties, it cannot be avoided. I have the dowry from the brides family, but they have a strict tradition of the wedding meal." He sighs. "Wolpertinger! Can you believe it? He wants Wolpertinger! If you could please, if you have time and are not saving the world, could you please find and catch one of these critters? I don't mean to insult you with something so base after your huge achievements, I just don't know who else to ask."

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+8=12 ;
Tuesday July 17th, 2018 9:41:42 PM
Talia listens to the Mayor's personal request, and thinks, "this must be some sort of Bachelor Exercise in Futility. What the heck is a WolperTinger? I wonder if he expects us to gift wrap it or cook it?"

"Er, Mister Mayor," pipes up Ms. Talia, "What pray tell is a WolperTinger exactly?! Do you know where is lives?! And lastly, is there a time frame on the Hunt & Retrieval of this request, Sir?" asks Talia using her feminine charms as she bats her eyelids towards him while she displays a very sensuous smile all the while attempting to be diplomatic about the whole affair.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Tuesday July 17th, 2018 10:37:29 PM
"Hey, this might be a good chance to try out the newbies," says Kezzem, "Better to do so hunting a Whatsatiger than facing an immortal power of the Sargass."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85  d20+15=33 ; d20+8=24 ;
Wednesday July 18th, 2018 12:48:07 AM

"First of all, your Honor, congratulations! I trust you and your bride are fond of each other. Is she from here in town, someone we know? Or from another place?"

He awaits the Bingo Bumbleluck's response, comments appropriately, supportively as he can. Then he joins in the discussion of the requested nonesuch.

"They say, sometimes, a god may try to bring together different combinations of critters into one strange creature. Also brilliant, yet unstable mages, or strange druids have been said to attempt similar effects. Anyone ever hear of the platypus?" asks Murphy.

"Well, the wolpertinger, from what I have heard, looks in part like a rabbit with its long ears, a deer with its antlers, a squirrel in its body, a pheasant in its wings and tail. Some claim they have fangs. I have never seen one, though I have looked at a painting of one." He takes out some paper, pen and ink, and makes a rough sketch. He passes it around to those gathered. "Others report some combination where another animal type than the ones I mentioned make up a wolpertinger." He shrugs his shoulders, takes a bite of sausage, chews it most of the way, then adds before his mouth is entirely done with that bite, "Maybe there are some in the Culverwood, but I do not know for certain." He swallows, smiles, and says, "What a familiar for a druid mage such a beast might make!"

"Um, Mayor Bumbleluck. Your daughter, Blossom. How does she feel about you getting married? And how does your fiancee feel about gaining a stepdaughter?"

The old tales tell of the occasional bump in the road as a stepmother arrives on the scene, Murphy thinks to himself. He long had supposed that the Mayor became a widower shortly after Blossom was born, but realizes he never took the time to find out what really happened there. Had she been born out of wedlock? If so, what of the mother?

[Knowledge: Nature 33]
[Profession: Artist: 24]

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3   d20+10=15 ;
Wednesday July 18th, 2018 1:27:18 AM
Knowledge Nature to know Wolpertinger = 15

Mayor, we'd be more than happy to go out and get you one of these things. Just to clarify, we need to bring one back ALIVE? or dead is okay too?

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3  
Wednesday July 18th, 2018 1:33:11 AM
Hobie reaches into his handy haversack and pulls out a staff which he holds out to the group "I just remembered, we found this staff in the wreckage of that menagerie before the planar jumping. It can cast Calm Animals and Reduce Animal. Maybe it could come in handy, but I can't cast those spells."

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Wednesday July 18th, 2018 5:14:51 AM
“I’m not much of a hunter”, Succotash confesses, “But I’m in if everyone else is”. He also feels more than just a little jealous when Talia flirts with the mayor. “Sorry Talia”, he says, “but it looks like your trip to Angel Springs, is going to have wait, but don’t worry, when we get back I promise to escort you there”.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)   d20=1 ;
Wednesday July 18th, 2018 10:24:12 AM
"Oh, congratulations our most excellent mayor!" Zaragosa said, trying his hardest to hide his disappointment in the job. Zaragosa was new and nowhere near a 'world saver', but he was an accomplished adventurer and thought joining the Humble Sword would be more glorious. This was, however, just one job.

Bluff == 13

(OOC darn, my first 'roll' is a natural 1. Isn't that the way it is.)

DM Edit: Changed a couple letters around in your post. =) Wold is "G" for language, something I struggle with mightily!

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle) 
Wednesday July 18th, 2018 11:24:31 AM

Bliss claps at the good news, and is willing to help, but he is worried about giant incursions with the Tower still busted. He asks the Mayor for an update on that. And what's happening with the Second Breakfast Club?

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3  
Wednesday July 18th, 2018 12:03:07 PM
Hobie pats Zaragosa on the back and whispers "Real adventure will find us soon enough. The rest of us have been through quite a bit recently, Murph actually died. I'm kinda glad for a simple hunting trip right now."

Hobie will speak up to the mayor and the rest of the group, especially Murphy "So where do we find one of these things? and is it really something that requires all of us? I mean that drawing doesn't look like too much to handle, I suppose I could sneak up and snipe one with my bow pretty easy if it doesn't need to be alive."

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)   d20+5=18 ;
Wednesday July 18th, 2018 1:05:19 PM
(totally forgot that bards can roll all knowledge.)

Zaragosa noted that at least Hobie noticed his lie. To make up for this, he wanted to be useful. He started to think and try to remember if he heard of this creature

Knowledge nature == 18

(OOC that's a bit better..... )

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23 
Wednesday July 18th, 2018 4:28:31 PM
As the mayor bumbles his way to the point, Pressi asks where he is going with this. “Because I have to say there’s not enough money in the world to get me married. To the mayor. As an arrangement. Jackelopes, huh.

“Anyway, congratulations on the marriage. I’m as excited as you are.”

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Wednesday July 18th, 2018 5:07:16 PM

"Hobie, by 'catch this creature,' I am thinking that his Honor would like us to capture one, alive. So, netting, sleep spells, or letting Blisscat lick it into submission might be alternatives.

"As for adventure, friends, who knows what might come up as we search for such a critter? You know, with us, things seldom turn out as simply as we hoped they might."

Murphy addresses one concern of the mayor. "Sir, we are Humble's Sword. Neither you nor any other leader or citizen of the Ford need to feel shy about requesting our help. We are not some high and mighty group. Yes, we have some skills. But service to this community, and to Crescent Valley, is among the highest of our goals. Moreover, marriage is an honorable estate." He smiles. "Who knows, with a little practice, you may come to enjoy it."

He still does want to hear how things are between Blossom and her father and his bride-to-be on this matter...

DM Ken: A strange request. 
Wednesday July 18th, 2018 8:48:17 PM

The mayor lets out a sigh, obviously relieved.

"Thank you all!" He takes out a little sketchpad, and shows them a picture. It looks quite like Murphy's description. A rabbit, with antlers, wings, and of course, fangs.

"The creature is to be .. well.. eaten at the wedding. It has some symbolic meaning to my soon to be inlaws, so I don't suppose it matters much if it is living or dead when brought to us. The chefs here at the Buster will prepare the meal. We need four of the creatures.. not just one. One for each parent, and one for the newlyweds, who share the wings and breast, and mount the horns on their mantle. My own mother has passed, so we do not need a fifth, though if you could find one more for her ceremonial plate, it would be a kind gesture."

He pokes his food, then answers some of Murphy's more personal questions.

"I am marrying into a nomadic family of sorts. They did in fact, recommend the Culverwood or any of the Wolds .. special lands.. as a place to start. Wolpertingers seem to be attracted to sentient lands." He smiles. "My daughter Blossom is also pushing my marriage. She says it means she will finally leave room for someone other than me to dote on. Blossoms mother.. well.. she was an adventurer, and as soon as her daughter was weaned, she took to wandering. She would be gone longer and longer, and finally one day, she left me with a very polite note and a broken heart."

He claps his hands loudly, breaking his own memories.

"Now! You all are fed and informed! Please return within fourteen days. While you are gone I shall plan for a wedding, and a ceremony centered upon your spire!"

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Wednesday July 18th, 2018 9:33:53 PM
"A rabbit...wih fangs you say? I think I saw this in a play once. This is going to be no ordinary rabbit."

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+8=17 ;
Wednesday July 18th, 2018 11:40:28 PM
Talia mumbles under her breath, " Sentient Lands?! The creature is attracted to areas in which they can converse?! They will know we are coming!"

Piping up from her spot amongst the group, Talia addresses the Mayor again, while batting her eye lashes and trying to be diplomatic. "Mister Mayor, would you happen to know anything else about the classification, Taxonomy, and/or etymology of these critters, like are they solitary or do they gather into groups or families? Are they venomous? "

When finished speaking, Talia reaches for whatever veggie dishes are still available. "Any chance I could have a hot green tea and a glass of ice cold water?" to no one in particular

[Diplomacy Roll: 17]

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3  
Thursday July 19th, 2018 12:21:44 AM
"Alright, well let's head out to the Culverwood then."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Thursday July 19th, 2018 3:15:10 AM

Thanks for the grub, yep, we'll do it for you
"Yes, your honor, you have told us, we have agreed. Now, we know you'll have your hands full what with governance and getting ready for your wedding. I am pleased your daughter is pleased - that bodes well. Thank you for the good food, too!

Bliss's question for His Honor to respond to
"At least one more question remains - one that Bliss has asked. Have the two remaining members of the Second Dinner Club been able to make ANY forward progress on the Giant Tower? You know of my cousin, Grigory Hamwich Fern Pipewood Trufflefinder. His mother, my Aunt Shanzi Lips P.P. is my father's twin sister. Grigory traveled with the Crimson Shields of Hope for some time, and has since generally retired from active adventuring, just traipsing about here and there working on a book. His folks and many of his siblings live right here in Humble's Ford. Might you consider him to replace Bazeck Breezely? Grigory is brilliant, and might help Veseley and Tiana pull themselves together. Or maybe his sister, Camellia Moss Lakeby P.T., who is a sorceress. It is not responsible for us to just forget about the tower. Not that you have done so, your Honor. But, do you know of any progress, any hope, anything, Mister Mayor?" Murphy then holds up his hands, "I know, I know, you have much on your hands. A wedding, and a spire ceremony. Would you do this for us, though? That is, put someone in our community in charge of following up on this? Not just for us here in this room - but for all of us, here in the Ford and the Valley."

Let's prep for this, team, then leave at 9am
"All right, all, it's evening. I think I need to go bother Pirnook Deeppockets at the General Store." [That is, visit the Catacombs.] "Who here knows how to use a net? I do not. Nonetheless, I think it would be wise to fetch ourselves a few nets. Who knows how far into the Culverwood we will need to travel, or how many days it will take to travel back here once we have found a portion of the wedding feast? If we can avoid beating them up and bruising them overmuch, our good chef here at the Belly Buster will have a much easier time with the presentation. If we can bring them back alive - perhaps a few cages are required, too - all the better.

"Some slow spells. Sleep spells? Some sort of oil of preservation, in case we have to kill one or more of them ... something to prevent spoilage. Let's think this through; prepare as we might; get a good night's rest. How shall we travel? I could wildshape and fly, and carry four besides myself, with a proper saddle. Pressi can fly. Bliss can figure out how to do so. Can we fly back, carrying the critters? Or do we go with mounts? A narrow cart?

"We have two newcomers to the group, J.T.T. Zaragosa and Talia. Jack, you've done a fairly good job of laying out your capabilities. Talia, I know you are a sorceress, but not what spells you have.

"All, each of us - let's talk it through, then go off as prepared as we might, with what prep and sleep we can get over the next 12 hours.

"Let's be ready to leave in the morning, say about three hours past sunrise?" [9 am]

Murphy puts his hands on the table, and asks, "Please, talk it over. I'll be ready at the time I stated. Is there ANY reason why we cannot leave by then? And what things do we need to bring, and how do we travel? I was born in the Culverwood, and know parts of it. Some of us - Kezzem, Pressi and I - have traveled a long way through it. The flora is dense. The pathways can change. The forest decides who it likes, and who it does not like. It can help, or hinder. We treat the forest with respect. I don't want fireballs in the midst of the woods. Your turn." Murphy catches the last bit of the fine sauce remaining on his plate with the nice, fresh bread, and listens to his friends - and, he trusts, the Mayor.

He comments quietly to Talia, "I've never heard of ice water being served here, but they have a fine jasmine green tea." He whispers to a waiter, requesting a pot of it for Talia, along with some fresh water for her.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Thursday July 19th, 2018 9:38:28 AM
Succotash heads home with Hobie after the meeting, unsaddles and removes Miss Piggy’s Barding, then with Hobie’s help, removes his armor. When that is finished, he sits down with Hobie, and asks, “Of course I’m willing to help out however I can, but unless we are going into a potentially dangerous situation, isn’t sending a group with our collective experience, a little overkill for a hunting expedition?”

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23  d20+11=30 ;
Thursday July 19th, 2018 10:20:28 AM
If Pressi remembers anything about the Culverwood or nomadic families (know local 30), she provides some exposition.

In response to the picture, “Didn’t see anything like that from Monty Python or Culverwood’s Funniest People.”

In response to Talia, “He’s already begging us. Take it down a notch until we really need it.”

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle) 
Thursday July 19th, 2018 2:09:27 PM

Bliss perks up when he hears a mention of magical woods. "I grew up in a magical wood," he declares. "That was the Blackbird Forest, next to the Culverwood. And one thing I learned about magical forests is that they are not for the uninvited or the unskilled. If we just go traipsing around in the Culverwood, odds are we get lost at best, or lost forever at worst. Even if we find the right kind of magical bunnies, how are we getting out again?"

"What we need is a guide to help us navigate our way around. Mister Murphy, I know you are a worthy druid, but just because you are a druid, it does not mean you won't get lost in the Culverwood."

"I think we should go somewhere sensible and hire a guide. I say, let's go to the Emerald Kingdom and find an elf guide. Also we can consult with sages there who can give us more information."

He turns to the mayor. "You'll delay the wedding until we get back, Sir Mayor?" he asks.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Thursday July 19th, 2018 4:52:04 PM

"Yes, Bliss, a guide would be useful. I lived in the Culverwood with my Aunt Nilli for about a year and a half. She knows quite a bit, and there are many druids she works with in the wood. One of her druid friends showed me a book of drawings of some Culverwood creatures, and that's where I saw this one.

"Much as I'd love to visit the Blackbird Forest, that is quite a ways away. How about if we start out closer to home, but consider ... oh, wait, you said go to the Emerald Kingdom, not the Blackbird Forest. We probably weren't too far off from the Emerald Kingdom after we made our way back home after ending up in Izen. Friends, I forgot to mention that Bliss was with us on that journey, too.

"Nilli is about a day's walk into the forest. I could almost get there blindfolded. Or, we could head down to Traders Corner - we can catch a boat a little upstream from Buddy's Falls, where the river from The Scab branches, and it's maybe a 30 mile journey downstream. All kinds of people pass through there. A guy named Brock makes some of the best brew in the Wold. It's a small community, but sure and someone there might have a clue as to where to go. Oh, and speaking of elves - quite a few are on the south side, just outside the walls of Angel Springs. Maybe one of them might know. Or Mungo Hardbottle - he knows quite a bit about quite a bit.

"My Grandpapa Warbler used to say, 'In the abundance of counselors there is wisdom.' He usually said that after Grandma Eglantine said something he disagreed with, but... So, great idea, Bliss. We need to find someone who can give us guidance. I'm not opposed to going to Emerald City, if we have to, but, what do you think about starting out a little bit closer to home, first?"

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Thursday July 19th, 2018 7:23:42 PM
Zaragosa appreciated Murphy recognizing, his talents. That man seemed to be the one taking charge, so Zaragosa would ask him a question. He did, however, ask it loud enough for others to hear. That way anyone could answer him

"Aye, sounds good. I have about 10 days worth of rations stored up, but I did don't sound like it will take more than a few days. I usually carry my pony with me to help carry my supplies, I'm not the strongest chap. Is that Ok? Is there anything the team needs me to bring? Any other procedure I should know about or prepare for? Sorry for the questions my excellent sir, I just am new to the company and want to do right by everyone."



DM Ken: A strange request. 
Thursday July 19th, 2018 7:29:26 PM

The mayors face darkens a bit when he is asked again about the tower, a question he pointedly ignored.

"Well, our towers are a bit beyond me and our means. I have sent dispatch to the gentlemen who run the Sage's Guild, but their fee to come and repair it is... well, robbery in my own opinion. They seem to know how important it is to us. One of their representatives is coming to meet me within the month. We shall have to hold the thought until then."

As the halflings leave, he makes a promise.

"You have my word that once this wedding and spire are finished, the tower shall be my very next concern! And yes, dear Bliss, I shall be very much forced to postpone the wedding until your return. Finally, no, I do not know anything at all about the creatures, other than having this sketch. You may take it if you wish."

It seems obvious that perhaps his priorities are backwards, but Bumbleluck has always been a bit of a mess.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Thursday July 19th, 2018 9:04:37 PM
Talia will do her best to help everyone get ready for the journey. Talia will assist where she can, doing whatever she can. When the time comes she will sleep at least two (2) hours prior to everyone's wake time seeing how Mister Murphy said they should leave about 9am in the morn.

[Still awaiting my Catacomb purchase]

When Talia see Mister Murphy is available for a word, she will approach Mister Murphy and answer his question about sorcery.

As Ms. Talia hadn't unpacked, we will be ready when it's time.



Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Thursday July 19th, 2018 10:55:40 PM
"Is this rabbit-thing fiendish per chance?" asks Kezzem. "Draconic or undeadish maybe? Cause Rumpo, Succo, Piggo, and me...me-o can all bring the smites now!"

"Yeah, that would probably be too easy. Not as easy as the animator having a sudden fatal heart attack, mind you...wait, that was a different part of that play. The drawing got me confused."

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Friday July 20th, 2018 7:40:38 AM
“Hey, what if we found a guide who was an enchanter named Tim, and he taught us about the air speed volatility of laden and unladen swallows!” Of course they would have to be European swallows, as African swallows are non migratory”. “Not sure what a swallow has to do with a rabbit with big nasty pointy teeth though”

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle) 
Friday July 20th, 2018 9:48:15 AM

Bliss is content with the Mayor's answer and agrees with Murphy's idea of heading to the Emerald Kingdom by way of the southern eaves of the Culverwood. If they find out more and especially if they find a guide before they get to the Elvish nation, that's fine too.

The young halfling laughs at Sir Kezzem's and Sir Succcotash's jokes. "Paladins are funny!" he declares.

He compares notes with Miss Talia, asking about the kinds of magic she can do, and what she'll cast in a fight. He shows off his polymorphing and talks about his favorite buffs, like barkskin and shield of faith and divine favor. And he loves the witch spell that makes him old or young or really old -- Bliss demonstrates each in turn at will, switching back and forth at dizzying speed -- though almost all the time he prefers the young option.

He coordinates with Miss Pressi every day for their shared buff, a Shield of Faith spell boosted with bloodwitch magic to CL12 for a +4 bonus to AC. "Right, Miss Pressi?"

[OOC: Are we setting out? Kindly DM, let me know when you want bloodwitch PCs to roll for their daily spells and rituals.]

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Friday July 20th, 2018 12:26:34 PM
"Hey, you saw the same play!" remarks Kezzem.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23 
Friday July 20th, 2018 1:27:35 PM
“All right, get it out of your system,” Pressi admonished. “But you do not want me to go back there and taunt you a second time. I’ve already got to correct people thinking I weigh less than a duck when I clearly weigh two pounds more.

“Also, a killer clearly not a rabbit sparks something but traveling to the Emerald City doesn’t even get a mention of visiting a Wizard or traveling by Brick road? Watch more plays, people.”

In response to ZTT, “It’s up to you. We’ve traveled by entire caravan in the past, until goblins struck our horses. I plan to just walk. And we usually don’t have too much of a rations issue. The big thing is we need to discuss a March order, including who wants to scout, rear guard, etc. Think of a watch order too. Other than that, just be ready for whatever animals or bandits we come across.”

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23 
Friday July 20th, 2018 1:45:44 PM
Also to Bliss, “Correct. I see my buckler as more of an emergency device than a normal use one so I’ll still be relying on shield spells. Also, any idea on how much a guide costs?”

To Talia, “You’ve been kind of quiet about your build so I went ahead and scanned you. Get more touch AC by the way. Kind of strange that you went hard on transmutation. Even witches go necro or enchanting... melee witches excepted of course. Doing a lot of Baleful Polymorph, perhaps?”

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Friday July 20th, 2018 3:47:29 PM
[Pressi [Melvin] first spell caster in a long long time. It seemed like the thing to go to compliment the party. Ps. Its that what the links is for?]


The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Friday July 20th, 2018 8:41:24 PM
Zaragosa thanks Pressi for answering him "Thank you. I don't ride the pony, I just need him to carry my things, if you need me, I can always scout ahead. I can be sneaky when I need to be, I also have this magical ring that helps me bend in. I prefer to be in the back in a fight, ready to strick when flanking or buffing everyone with a haste spell. But while walking, anytime you need me to scout ahead, just ask."

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle) 
Friday July 20th, 2018 9:04:06 PM

Bliss is delighted to hear that Talia is a baleful polymorpher! "I had fun as a little birdie once when someone cast that on me," he declares proudly.

And he shakes his finger at Pressi. "Like my Aunt Priss always said, 'Shield of Faith gives a "deflection" bonus, not a "shield" bonus,' so you can definitely use the spell and a buckler at the same time."

"I'll scout with you, JTT," says Bliss. "As a kitty I'm pretty sneaky too!"

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Friday July 20th, 2018 10:19:46 PM
"What, you get a bonus from using a buckler?" asks Kezzem. "Is it a marketing thing, like putting the logo for the Dancing Pig on your shield. I need to get in on this. I could definitely use some extra coin."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Friday July 20th, 2018 10:36:16 PM

Wrap-up at the Belly Buster
"Thank you, Mayor Bumbleluck. My prayers, and no doubt those of some of my companions, will be with you during this time of preparation. Please ask your fiancee to keep us in her prayers, too. Where is she from, by the way, and, would it be all right to know her name?" he asks lightly, in a manner to let him know he is interested, but will not press for the information.

He lets all know that he is going to spend the evening at the group's River burrow, as most of his gear is there, and he wants to organize it. "Once we get back, Humble's House should be fully complete, aside from whatever we want to do to furnish and decorate it. I'll be happy to move in there fully by then."

He asks where each person plans to sleep, just in case anything comes up, so we know.

"Anyway, in the morning let's all meet at the Sanctuary by 8:30, make certain all of us have everything we think we need, then set out by 9. Perhaps I'll wildshape into a Woldian swallow, and one of you can measure my air speed laden and unladen."

Before they all split, Murphy lets Pressi know he needs to swing by his folks place afterwards. "Mama is getting ready to help out my sister-in-law, Airin, back in Hovel, she I need to let her know we're going as well, and see if she wants to travel with us that far. Want to meet me there? I'll bring Talia from the General Store, and we can get her to where she's going to stay for the evening. See if Jack wants to come along, too. Heck, anyone who wants to can drop by. My folks live for visitors."

At the Pastna Pipewoods
If Talia is okay with this plan, he takes her there. Murphy's father, Samell Pastna Pipewood, and mother, Bekka Lilly Burrows Leafwin Pipewood, welcome newcomers warmly. "There's room here, if you want to sleep in nice beds, with down comforters."

Bekka talks about getting Airin to the Birthing Tree in time. "Doesn't hurt to get there a little early. Most of my children were born there - including this rascal," she says of Murphy.

"And so was Eberyon," his father adds.

General Store / Catacombs
Earlier, when he and Talia go to Pirnook's General Store, in order to gain access to the Catacombs, Murphy lets him know that he is one of his favorite proprietors of the town's General Store. "Sorry so late, but things are pressing, so thank you for opening for us." If Pirnook grumbles significantly, Murphy tells him he has a genuine talent for grouchiness. "But I'm still glad that your life was saved a little while back. Town wouldn't be the same without you." If Pirnook does not grouse overmuch, then Murphy is simply pleasant to him, and thanks him for his help. "It's something to help out the Mayor and the town."

If the Catacombs will provide Talia's spell components for Stoneskin, then they can retire early. If not, then Murphy may be busy for a little while rousing Madame LaRue to help with grinding diamonds into dust, to mix with granite, also ground into dust, so that Talia may have enough components for seven such spells.

[So, both Murphy and Talia are awaiting completion of help in the Catacombs.]

To Rest
After the store, and a short stop in at his family place, Murphy walks the others to wherever they are staying. If that leaves him alone, he wildshapes into a bat, and flies to the burrow, resumes his own form, and packs for the trip. If not alone for the last leg of the trip home, he walks with his companion(s).

Morning Has Broken
In the morning, he awakens, prays, eats, fetches his mother, who has put what she is bringing in saddlebags and another sack kept on the pony she rides. "I tire of riding in carts. Your father loves it," she explains. As she rides, she knits a small outfit. "Something for the babe."

By 8:20, Murphy, his mother, and whoever else stayed in town show up to greet those who stayed in the Humble House. Murphy spends about ten minutes with Foreman George, going over the plans. "Anything you want me to try and bring back from the Culverwood?" he asks him.

8:30 - "Friends, most of you know my mother, Bekka is her name. She will guard us on the dangerous way to Hovel," he jests. "She's going to help my sister-in-law, Airin, give birth to her first child, out at the Birthing Tree in the Culverwood."

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Saturday July 21st, 2018 12:28:50 AM
"Yes, Mister Murphy, that will be fine, your plan" says Talia to Mister Murphy. Talia will follow Mister Murphy to meet his kin and have a nice warm place to sleep & prepare for the days journey ahead.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Saturday July 21st, 2018 8:45:30 AM
Succotash rises early and quietly as he can, he heads out of Hobie’s house, heads out to the stable, and saddles Miss Piggy, after that, he dresses her in her barding, and feeds her some nice oats saying, “not sure how long this will take girl, but you may be grazing for awhile, instead of enjoying Hobie and Roscoe’s fine stable fare”. After that he leads her out to a quiet place and spend an hour in prayer and meditation, as he concludes his time with Pantheon, he thanks him for his time and protection, and then heads back to Hobie’s home. He arrives just in time for a lovely breakfast with Hobie and Roscoe, then asks them to once again help with the donning of his armor. Than he will ride with Hobie to The Sanctuary, to meet up with the others.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Saturday July 21st, 2018 9:51:09 AM
Zaragosa turned to bliss in a small bit of excitement "You are sneaky?! I am sneaky! We can be scout buddies! I wish I could share the magical ring that hides me, but I trust in your abilities alone."

if the next day arrives

Zaragosa would grab his gear and find his pony. He would use his bag of holding and put his hear in them, then set that in the pony's saddle bag.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23 
Saturday July 21st, 2018 9:55:47 AM
JP sorry about not responding earlier, and I really just wanted to give Talia a chance to explain her particular casting strategy. Will take rest of conversation to email.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3  
Monday July 23rd, 2018 2:14:02 AM
"Oh Talia you are a transmutation specialist? Me too!! I mean, I'm not much of a wizard, certainly more focused on training with my bow than studying the arcane, but I did focus my limited studies on the transmutation school. What spells do you know?!"

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Monday July 23rd, 2018 5:44:15 AM
“Talia, and you to Zaragosa, I told Hobie to feel free to use me as a meat shield, if needed, when we met, and I am now making the same offer to you guys. I specialize in frontline combat, where Miss Piggy and I can set up flanking maneuvers with each other, where I can bring the mighty “Twinklesting”, my Holy Greatsword, to bare, also, as a Paladin, I have some healing magic, so along with Kezzem, and Pressi, let us know if you’re hurting. By the way, I have made it my personal mission to do everything in my power to keep the members of this group alive, including laying down my own life if needed. As members of Humble’s Sword, that vow now extends to you two, I hope that gives you some comfort, as we embark into the unknown.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Monday July 23rd, 2018 10:13:29 AM
Zaragosa to Succotash, "thank you, Succotash Slenderstick, Paladin of Pantheon. That does give me a lot of comfort. I like to also swing a sword around but I am aware I am only good while someone is helping me flank. If you wish me to stay in the back and heal, I shall do that."

(OOC, my character has been talking about rations but I Forgot I gave him a ring of Sustenance, I guess he likes to eat.)

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Monday July 23rd, 2018 10:15:15 AM
Oh, Mister Hobie, explains Talia, my favorite is "Baleful Polymorph"....I just love turning the enemy into Sloths! It's just the most fun one can have without killing...no mess, terrific punishment, and there's no deaths to hang on your conscious."

Other than that, since I have been on my own without family to speak of, except for my Owl; should be about mile out from us hunting; most of the magic I have come to cast serves more of a utilitarian purpose.

I do have a wand of cure light wounds...never used!

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle) 
Monday July 23rd, 2018 1:19:10 PM
Bliss looks at Sir Succotash and Sir Kezzem as the group talks about capabilities.

"Sorry Sir Kezzem," he says, "but Sir Succo is now my favorite paladin. He can take away my tiredness if I need to unfocus in a fight."

[Bliss does not think of his barbarian rage as rage, but as "being focused" and "unfocused." But even so, that paladin mercy vs fatigue is a barbarian's joy!]

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3  
Monday July 23rd, 2018 3:17:52 PM
"Baleful Polymorph! I've read a bit about that one, and our good friend Kezzem has some personal experience with it. I'm afraid I probably won't ever be able to cast it, at least not until late in my career

Hobie turns to Kez "Do you still crave acorns from time to time?

DM Ken: A strange request. 
Monday July 23rd, 2018 4:53:23 PM

When morning comes, its time to ride. The adventurers get moving, with an escort of non-combat halfling companions.

The plan, is relatively simple.

Step 1. Make it to Emerald Kingdom by way of the southern eaves of the Culverwood.
Step 2. Catch or Kill a Wolpertinger or three and return it.
Step 3. Do all of this within a week.

Per this chart, you halflings move at a pace of 2 miles per hour, and can walk 8 hours per day, to the tune of 16 miles without dealing with fatigue. Per yours DM's estimate on the hand drawn maps of New Elenna, Crescent Valley, Yrth, and the Culverwood, you are roughly 150 miles away, which is a 18 day one way trip on foot. If the Culverwood is the route you wish to take, you might need a faster mode of travel.

With everyone gathered, all that's left is to make some final decisions regarding marching orders, camp rotations, and lunch menus!

(Witches, I will ask you to go ahead and give me a number of checks = to the number of days your final route will take you. I will also be looking through your coven stuff making sure everyone is more or less up to date. )

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Monday July 23rd, 2018 6:01:56 PM
"What?" says Kezzem to Bliss. "It's because of the pig, isn't it. Everyone loves the pig. Rumpus, why aren't you a pig!"

Rumpus snorts.

"Hush, you!" says Kezzem to Hobie.

OOC: Kezzem is fine with any march order, but would prefer to be up front (possibly behind a scout/guide if needed). For watch order, Kezzem would prefer to be paired with Pressi, Murphey, Bliss, or Hobie (in that order) rather than one of the new guys.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Monday July 23rd, 2018 6:25:37 PM
“We have a long journey ahead of us”, Succotash realizes out loud, “Does anyone have some teleport spells, or know of a wizard we can hire to cast the spell, I’m afraid we won’t make it in time otherwise?”

“By the way, I don’t really care what order either, but if Kezzem is going to take the lead, maybe I should take the rear, and form a Paladin sandwich”, Succotash suggests.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Monday July 23rd, 2018 6:32:09 PM
“I don’t care who I take watch with”, Succotash adds, “but maybe you would maybe want to take watch with me Talia?” After saying this Succotash’s face turns beet red.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Monday July 23rd, 2018 7:57:14 PM
Talia, looking upwards towards the heavens, whistles very loudly...and yearns for something...after a while she returns to the groups activities of getting ready for the journey.

Talia tells the group, "I was just gonna try to keep pace with Rayya. You know, fly over the land and all, but I was wondering what speed the rest of you will be traveling at?" "I can stay towards the back behind the tank like members" explains Talia. "I have some of my own rations to munch on if its okay with the group, mumbles Talia.

"I'm all packed and ready to go, is there anything I might be able to help ya'll with?" says Talia to the group?

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23 
Monday July 23rd, 2018 9:13:38 PM
“May I make a suggestion,” Pressi replies really quick. “I actually do have a teleport spell called shadow walk. I can transport 9 or 10 creatures at 50 MPH for much of the day. But we will have to leave mounts and companions behind. And... I can’t entirely control where we wind up.”

Pressi can scout but she’s willing to stay in the middle of the pack and let someone else give it a try. She needs eight hours rest so put her at the beginning or end of the watch order.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 12:30:21 AM

Murphy, I forgot to mention, brought one of his riding dogs, Skipper, along with him - mainly to help carry things - and he likes his big dogs.

"My thought is this. If we can find the four to six wolpertingers we have agreed to find for our Mayor nearby, that would be preferable to going almost halfway across the maybe 400 miles-wide forest, find a guide, take more time, finally gain our goal, then travel halfway again across the forest.

"So, every so often - say, twice or three times a day, as we travel deeper into the Culverwood, I can commune with the land, and seek out the wolpertingers. We then travel on the local hunt, capture the pheasant squirrel deer bunnies, then head back. I don't want to go primarily by foot. Rather, by boat. By foot, only when we find evidence of their presence.

"Therefore, I purchased some feather tokens. Three swan boats. A couple of fans. A pair of anchors. If traveling downstream, with these boats, we could travel all the way to the Emerald City in one day - so long as the boat is not damaged, and we're not attacked or blocked multiple times. Traveling back upstream, using a fan feather token - we could make it in one day, or maybe two.

"Is anyone here skilled, at all, with boats? Some of us have rafted the river, both directions - at least partway. We also tried the grass boats in the Sargrass. If one or more of us have boating skills, well, all the better. We could hire someone with boating skills, but that might place that person at risk, knowing what our group tends to attract. My brother, Kendry, has such skills, but no way he is going to leave Airin's side now.

"So, my hope, really, is to reach out via spells to find the critters within an eleven (11) mile radius, and sooner rather than later, each time I cast the spell. That's close to 380 square miles." [22 miles wide circle]

Murphy then asks, "Besides the possibility of shipwreck, can anyone see significant risks to what I propose? Can anyone see benefits or advantages to this approach? Oh, and one other non-exclusive option - we can go ask Nilli, who, as I mentioned, knows the woods pretty well in the area not far off from Crescent Valley."

He then adds, "Shadow walk sounds fun though, Pressi. But also it may be a fascinating way to get lost. If it works, we could cross the whole Culverwood, if direction and distance did not get mixed up. Or, if my nature commune lets us know they are, say, six miles off, could you use that, once we've captured," and he says with a bit of a sad face, "or, killed the requisite number, to shadow walk us back to the boat?"

Murphy offers to take either first watch, or last watch. He often does the latter, as he also tends to be the one to whip up breakfast.

"For the first leg of the trip (if we skip meeting with Nilli), there's a Captain Titus who runs a paddlewheel sailboat* up and down the river. Last I checked, anyhow. We can ask in Hovel - someone there usually knows what's going on with the captain and his boat. I didn't think to ask when we went there last week, since - we didn't know about wolpertinger hunting. Anyway, his main run is from near Buddy Falls to Trader's Corner. He may go to Troll sometimes, and he may go to Emerald City - but usually only if he is hired to do that, and I really don't know what he charges. He has a crew, most of them know boating pretty well."

The last thing he adds is this: "I have several throwing nets - enough that each of us can have one, if you want. These critters fly. It could be a good way to wrap them up, if we don't manage to net ourselves in the process. Just let me know, and I'll give you one."

*See Crescent Valley archives post of Thursday, September 30th, 2004 titled "Riverboatin' (DM Stephen)" for reference, particularly the last paragraph.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3  
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 1:53:54 AM
Well guys, I do happen to have a scroll of teleport on me. Thought it would come in handy at some point. It can only transport up to 4 of us though, and the spell works best if you are really familiar with your destination, so I think we should just remember that we've got it, and if it takes us so long to catch them that we don't have time for the return journey, then a couple of us could teleport back with the wolpertingers while the others return. But as for getting there, Murphy's boat plan seems pretty solid, but Pressi's Shadow Walk seems much more exciting. Sure it could put us a little off course, but it could get us there in only a couple of hours. More risk, more reward. My vote is with Press

ooc: Mechanically the farthest out of the way that shadow walk could place us is 10,000 feet which is less than 2 miles. And that's only if we first appear in a solid object. More likely it's 1d10x100 feet. And it'll only take us 3 hours to get there that way. Shadow walk is super risky for teleporting in combat situations, but for long distances its not really a big deal. So that's my vote.

As for watch order: Hobie listens to a few of his partners note their preferences for watch. Succotash clearly wants to spend some time with Talia, Kezzem would prefer not to keep watch with one of the new crew, and Hobie assumes that Murphy and Pressi would prefer to keep their watch together. So Hobie decides that maybe it's a good opportunity to spend some time getting to know JTT Zaragosa, and he'll let Bliss keep watch with Kezzem.

Zaragosa, how would you like to keep watch with me? I think I'd quite enjoy discussing how we've both mixed the arcane arts with the martial. I'd love to hear some of your stories.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 5:42:00 AM
“I like the shadow walk idea, Pressi”, Succotash states, “I can summon Miss Piggy to my side when we arrive, and I know Kezzem can do the same with Rumpus if he wants, so no big deal there”. Then turning to The rest of the party, “if anyone needs help carrying equipment, Miss Piggy and I can help”.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 7:13:43 AM
Zaragosa was intrigued with the idea of shadow walk, he had never seen that spell and was looking forward to seeing it work. However, most of the census was how it would not be the best idea. Being new, and not know how the spell worked, he kept out of that decision.

He did, however, answer Hobie with enthusiasm. It was pretty clear that he was anxious to get to know any of his team, "I would enjoy that very much, my good sir! I have a story or two to tell, however, I have not done anything as amazing as save the world! I would like to hear some of your stories as well"


Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 8:40:55 AM
"That's fine, Press, I can summon Rumpo to my...oh, Succo already said that."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23 
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 10:26:07 AM
Ok, a couple of other items to get things out of the way.

Flight: "Well, a couple of us do have flight through fly, flying broom or transforming into animals or elementals. But we aren't going to go fast enough to cut the time by flying."

Companions: It's good to know that some of you can summon your mounts, but I don't think I can summon Harper. Anyone else having trouble leaving people at home?

(With an L1 spell, I can boost Shadow Walk to Level 10 for 10 slots. PCs take up 8, Harper takes up 1, and Bliss' cauldron and paladin mounts take up 0, so I can take the owl too, or a single non-magical mount if the owl can also be summoned.)

Net offer: Pressi will take one (and she actually has the feats to use it. Someday, she will pick up a ghost touch net, and the DM will be unhappy.).

Ship Ideas: We are still waiting for everyone to weigh in, so don't be shy. And don't forget that we all get a voice to at least float the ideas. The consensus does appear to be approaching some sort of mix, using boats to get from port to port, then shadow walk to move further inland. Thing is, nobody here has profession: sailor so we'll face some of the issues we did last module.

Besides shipwreck, the issue might be one of time since we'd be locked in waterways.

Oh,and Pressi has a few divinations such as locate creature or arcane eye to supplement Murphy's searches.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 12:57:43 PM
Zaragosa would find Succotash before any departure to ask "Great paladin! I would like to take you up on the offer to carry my supplies. All are in this bag of holding which is always 25 pounds. That is too much for me to move around but might be nothing for you or your most excellent steed. If this is too much to ask, I understand. I will use my pony to carry it. However, if you are willing, I think we would do better to track through a forest without the pony to drag us behind."

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 1:06:15 PM
Succotash gladly receives Zaragosa’s bag of holding, and slings it over Miss Piggy’s saddle horn and says, “anyone else need to lighten the load?”

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle)  d20=6 ; d20=17 ; d20=2 ; d20=6 ; d20=14 ; d20=13 ; d20=17 ; d20=15 ; d20=6 ; d20=9 ; d20=14 ; d20=14 ; d20=7 ; d20=12 ; d20=17 ; d20=3 ; d20=13 ; d20=18 ; d20=11 ; d20=5 ;
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 1:24:43 PM

Bliss is excited to hear about Pressi's spell. "Wowsy, I'm not a shadowdancer any more, but I could still be a ShadowWALKER!" He is definitely in favor of this option.

When he hears that Murphy has a spell to detect the monsters they seek even if they are a long ways away, he is even more pleased. "So long as you can guide us out of the Culverwood as well as into it, that sounds great Mister Murphy! But if you cannot guide us out, we should hire a guide first so we don't get lost."

==========

OOC: Every day Bliss draws Woldsblood for magic power. He sends some power to his immortal patron, and he uses the rest to power his own spells; he has a DC14 concentration check to do that. He has a +12 concentration check, so he fails only on a nat 1.
20 days of travel: No Natural 1s, so A-OK.

Every day, Bliss performs his basic ritual of Grimalkin, needing to make a DC20 Handle Animal check to do it. He has a +17 base, +1 each from Aunt Pot, Pressi, and Harper, so that means the ritual cannot fail. No roll is needed.

Every day, Bliss and Aunt Pot help Pressi and Harper with Pressi's basic ritual. Bliss and Auntie both add a +1, but cannot benefit from whatever ritual it is (Warding?) because you cannot benefit from two basic rituals in the same day. If the ritual fails, they do share in the penalty.

Every day, Bliss and Pressi work together on an Intermediate Ritual of Sharing, requiring a DC30 Spellcraft check. Bliss's base Spellcraft of +23 is better than Pressi's base +21, so use Bliss's. Because Pressi is not doing her own (but benefitting from Bliss's), she gives a +5 on the check. Auntie Pot and Harper each kick in +1. That's +23+5+1+1 = +30, so this ritual too cannot fail. No roll is needed.

As a rule, the spell shared is a CL13 Extended Shield of Faith. That gives a +4 deflection bonus to AC for 260 rounds. The duration is divided among Bliss, Pressi, and Harper; 86 rounds each. The shared Extended Shield is CL13 because both Bliss and Pressi cast Surrender Blood to boost CL by +2, from Pressi's 9 to 14. It is extended because each day Bliss loans his Lesser Rod of Extend to Pressi for the casting.

He grumbles a bit about it too.

"Miss Pressi, you and Harper get two-thirds of the shared Shield, but you are using one of my three rod charges! And it costs me 10hp for the blood. Least you can do is cast CLW on me every day!"

"I thought you were going to get your own extend rod! It's only 3,000 gold."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 2:18:19 PM
Updating Hero Points in Header

DM Ken: A strange request. 
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 4:34:17 PM

Modes of travel are discussed, but nothing finalized. It seems to have come down to using a couple of teleport scrolls, Shadow Walk, or a few magical items for sailing.

Pressi would also know the following.

1. Shadow Walk moves you at 50 miles per hour, not per day. So in about 3 hours or less, you can be more or less on point.
2. When exiting the realm of shadow, you shunt 1d10 x 100, so max of 1,000 feet. That's not a huge detour. But there is the risk of coming our in the middle of the Culverwood without having much for bearing.

(Please wrap up your travel method and preparations by Wednesday! I think there's only 2 particular votes, and a few excited for Shadow Walk who haven't really given a vote.)

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 4:39:36 PM
Talia, thinks aloud and offers this suggestion. "Perhaps Shadow walk could get up at least there and maybe Mister Murphy could "Commune" to discover our bearing afterwards?"

After casting her vote, Ms Talia, stares back upwards towards the heavens after though waiting for something or someone to arrive...

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 5:15:11 PM
“Well, I vote we use Pressi ‘s spell, and let Murphy figure out where we are when we arrive”, Succotash states for the record, “May I ask what you keep looking for in the sky Miss Talia?”

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23 
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 5:40:46 PM
Have to rejigger spell points in compliance with headband as discussed in the rules board. Will try to do tonight.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 6:41:45 PM
"Let's do that shadow-walk thingamajobie Pressi was talking about," says Kezzem, realizing people were waiting for him to talk."

---

Kezzem

Abilities:
Lay on Hands 7/day
Smite Evil 4/day

Spells Prepared:
1st Level: Cure Light Wounds x3
2nd Level: Shield Other x2
3rd Level: Cure Moderate Wounds x2

----

Rumpus

Abilities:
Smite Evil 1/day
1st:

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Tuesday July 24th, 2018 8:05:27 PM

"Friends, I am not opposed to using shadow walk. I am fine with the notion," says Murphy. "[/b]However[/b], why not look closer to home, first? If, after one day into the Culverwood along the river we find no evidence of nearby wolpertingers, then consider the alternatives.

"I am concerned that folks are so excited about shadow walking to the Emerald City, that we are not even willing to consider finding our quarry quickly, closer to home, and getting back safe and sound, prior to going all the way into the center of the forest. Mind you, I am not opposed to going there if it appears necessary. I am fine with using shadow walk. But, please, FIRST - let's check out the closer by environment. In one day of travel, I can search in the neighborhood of 800 square miles. Let's begin with that. If something comes up, we can hunt using our animal friends. If nothing comes up, then, we can leave our mounts at Troll, or Trader's Corner, shadow walk, get a guide if necessary from Emerald City, go on the hunt, then head back, get our mounts, and boat back upstream. We hire a sailor to get us back upstream, if necessary."

He wraps up his argument: "This is not an either/or decision. It's a both/and - we'll do both if useful and necessary - but we'll also aim for what might be the faster course for going and returning. I made a promise to the air elementals, and Bliss, you mentioned maybe taking weeks in talking to the Mayor. I cannot take weeks. I need speed, or my word to the elementals will appear to erode. If no one else cares about me keeping my word to them, then if this task begins to take too long, I may need to consider leaving early - which I do not wish to do - for then my word to the Mayor will be compromised, not to mention my commitments to you all. Please, nearby first, then into the heart if needed."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Wednesday July 25th, 2018 12:22:06 AM
"Ah, and one more thing. Pressi, you need to sleep in order to learn the shadow walk spell, right?" Murphy asks. "So, we finish our jaunt to Hovel this morning. There are folks in town who know the ferry schedule. If it's still available when we get to Buddy's Falls, then, great, we take the ferry downstream. If not, we can still try the swan boat - the river flows downstream, and is fairly wide. Whichever boat, along the way I can cast the commune with nature spell once or twice, and again after we've had a chance to ask at Trader's Corner. If the ferry is to continue southward before the day is done, then, we ride onward with them - maybe all the way to Troll. If not, perhaps we can hire a sailor off the ferry, or one from Trader's Corner, and use the balance of the day to travel to Troll. Either from there, or from Trader's Corner - we sleep. In the morning, I check to see if there is any such animal as we seek in the vicinity. If not, then Pressi shadow walks us to the Emerald City. So, barring discovery of the proper bunnies, we arrive at that city in the morning. All right, that's my proposal."

He is happy to give a net to Pressi. He asks Jack TT Zaragoza whether there might be a bit of room left in his bag of holding to stow a few nets. "I bought 10 total." And, if not, he checks with Succotash as to how many Miss Piggy might be able to convey. "Does anyone else - would anyone else, please, take a net? If at least 3 or 4 of us have one each, they really might come in handy at the right time."

He also sketches out a quick overview map of the Culverwood to help his friends understand the references some of them are making.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Wednesday July 25th, 2018 5:03:02 AM

"Oh, and if in Hovel we find the ferry has left, we can ask around to see if there is a sailor whom we can hire," Murphy thinks to add. "As I said, I have three boats, which move fast (60 movement, plus the current, plus, if needed, a 25 mph tailwind)."

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Wednesday July 25th, 2018 5:38:00 AM
“I’ll take a net Murphy, and I have plenty of room in my saddlebags of holding for any extra”, Succotash says, “Your proposal seems fair Murphy, but to be honest Miss Piggy can move faster, (40ft speed + double move action = 80ft per round = 800ft per minute) without the tailwind of course, but if you chuck some haste on my girl, well then she’s really moving”. “Although, she can really only care one or two of us at the most so.....” “Anyway, I’d be willing to do the boat thing if that was the consensus, but to be honest I never really feel comfortable on a boat, and before I received my Paladin fear immunity, they terrified me”.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Wednesday July 25th, 2018 9:33:23 AM
Zaragosa answers Murphy , "I have another bag of holding on me, it isn't very full so I would be happy to hold some nets"

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Wednesday July 25th, 2018 11:02:57 AM
Talia listens to Mister Murphy intently and with a new wonder as his thoughts, and his concerns, display a great wisdom she didn't see earlier.

"Ah, Mister Murphy", Taia raises her hand waving it about, "I believe you have valid points to make on this issue of travel and about our Journey in general. I second your concerns and I like the idea of seeing our path instead of just Poofing into the forest. We can always Poof out of the forest, as we know were the Humble Home is!" says Talia in a exasperated breath as if she needed to say all that in one breath!

"Oh, Mister Slenderstick, I am looking for my friend Rayya. She usually stays within a mile or so of me, but I haven't seen here since meeting all of you. Perhaps she is shocked that this many Halflings even exist, & all in one place! Or maybe she is deciding which one to have for lunch?! Just kidding, but that look on your face was classic!" laughs Talia at Mister Slenderstick.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23 
Wednesday July 25th, 2018 11:34:49 AM
(OOC: Ok, I quickly reset my skill points and need the DM to check them fast. I failed to assign a skill to my headband, instead putting the 11 ranks in a number of rogue skills, and I changed that. I also took the opportunity to grab skill points from little use skills to focus on the areas I originally had in mind.

Pressi currently has no ranks in heal. The plan is to upgrade my headband next level, and add the heal skill to it. But we will just have to go without for this round.)

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

Like Bliss, Pressi has a woldian check every day. She has a +13 concentration check vs DC 15, but she also has a +15 to reflex so she cannot fail the second check.

Pressi prefers to occasionally cast Ritual of Warding and casts threefold aspect crone. She has a base 14, +2 from crone, +3 from Bliss, Pot and Harper, and thus fails only on a natural 1. (No fail whenever Bliss decides to benefit from it.)(Gain is a +1 to AC and saving throws.) She and Harper then assist Bliss and pot on their ritual.

Pressi has a base 22 in spellcraft +1 from crone form, so its six of one which one begins the ritual (for now). Pressi can't entirely follow why she's being handed the extend rod if Bliss is doing the ritual and doesn't exactly consider the ritual unfair given that she's losing hit points too and a spell slot (an L2 slot if extended, right) if she does the ritual instead.

"Ok, a couple of things," she sniffs at Bliss. "First of all, if you are unsatisfied with the arrangement, we can always make changes to it, like not casting it extended. Also, I just eat the HP hit but if you would gladly hit you with a CLW wand every day as part of rituals if you would feel better... and if you can pronounce the magic word please." (Pressi is a little insulted but she does make using the wand or one of her L1 slots part of the ritual.)(Also, an extend rod is on my shopping list for next level, when she begins to take the ritual over.)

"Second, I used the money I was going to use for the extend rod for this silence rod instead... and for a tatoo to remove everyone's paralysis but my own. I consider the fact that I will occasionally use one of my two charges on you, or that I will occasionally start casting without giving the group away a fair payment, but you are free to reject this offer. I had a really tough time in the catacombs getting this stuff, so feel free to also stand in line for me." (I only have a couple of hundred coins left currently.)

"Less of a snit response, I have been considering an alternate shared spell. If you think you might want to occasionally scout ahead or have an extra spell in your back pocket, I can share a debuff or control spell (silent enchantment) with you and you can take advantage of the extra DCs (at half the rounds). Something to keep in mind."

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

In response to Murphy, "So your theory is that because speed is of the essence, we should go slower. Just in case we come across a creature outside of where everyone would say it would be. But I don't really have any fight left in me, either and we have to decide now, so... lets try it your way to start."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Wednesday July 25th, 2018 2:49:07 PM
"Yeah Murph you are making no sense. We are currently 150 miles away from the area where these things most likely reside. Pressi can get us there in 3 hours. Why would we take boats for a whole day when we can get there in three hours? My vote is 100% for the shadow walk"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Wednesday July 25th, 2018 3:29:33 PM
Murphy smiles, "Right."

[OOC: I know that Murphy's logic in this case is far from impeccable. Sometimes I laugh at his point of view. He's just feeling anxious about getting the spire done. His argument DOES let us take advantage of today, while we wait for Pressi to sleep in the evening and get the spell in the morning, right?]

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23 
Wednesday July 25th, 2018 5:34:23 PM
Pressi does let him have his day of sailing before she rests and preps.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Wednesday July 25th, 2018 7:05:45 PM
So, a short list for DM Ken:
1. Is there a ferry available today near Buddy's Falls? (They should know in Hovel.) If not:
2. Is there someone with sailing abilities in Hovel we can bri... hire to handle the boat for us? Preferably at least two people. Our valley does have a navigable river running through it. And there is the (semi-regular?) nearby ferry service.
3. At Buddy's falls is a family who works with the ferry service. They can stable animals for a small fee (it used to be a silver a day)
4. Murphy plans to buy some of Brock's brews at Trader's Post to serve at the Mayor's nuptials. His "Brock's Best" is not cheap - like 300 to 400gp a barrel, but with lesser prices for some of his normal very good stuff (ciders and ales and beers).
That's it. Besides my earlier PPtDMs.

DM Ken: A strange request. 
Wednesday July 25th, 2018 8:53:46 PM

Murphy, in his usual way, badgers bluffs and bosses the group into seeing things from his point of view. A few people are willing to stick with the shadow walk, but since the only one capable of the spell has acquiesced to Murphy's stubborness, the point is moot.

---

The small group sets out, perhaps with animals. Their DM is pretty confused at this point. Hovel, per the map, appears to be about 13 miles away from Humbles Ford, which is near the maximum of the groups daily travel without forcing march, if even one of the halflings decides to go on foot. And as I understand it, a few of them are going on foot.

---

The group arrives, 6 hours later, into Hovel. A few on pony, one on a pig, and several on foot. They immediately set about asking for Ferry information, and find their ship has literally sailed. Once every three days a ferry leaves, more or less, and it takes about a week for the rafts to be hauled back to the starting docks. They stagger departures, and the next isn't schedules to arrive until tomorrow evening, again, more or less.

---

There aren't any sailors, per say, but there are a few river guides who can be found.

---

There are always people willing to stable extra animals for a few silver pieces.

---

I do not see Buddy Falls on any maps, so all of your interactions at this point, are limited to Hovel.



Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Wednesday July 25th, 2018 9:17:46 PM
"Give me a couple of those nets, Murph," says Kezzem. "I'm good at throwing things and don't have many nonlethal options."

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle) 
Thursday July 26th, 2018 1:10:36 AM

"OOPS we missed the boat, Mister Murphy," Bliss says ruefully. "I think we better go back to the shadow walking plan."

He's not really sure why we walked to Hovel. It *IS* close to the Culverwood ... hmm ...

"Hey, just for giggles, you wanna cast your Detect Weird Monster spell, Mister Murphy? It would sure be a kick in the pants if we shadow walked hundreds of miles away when there's a gaggle of the beasties we seek right here in our back yard."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85  d20+7=22 ;
Thursday July 26th, 2018 2:17:56 AM

Just before leaving Humble House
"Sure, Kezzem, here you are," Murphy says as he hands one folded net to the paladin, then attempts to cast the second net over his friend's head (AC 22). Which, as an attack vs his touch AC of 17, might just have worked. "And, there's the second one!" If Kezzem tosses the one he was just handed back at Murphy, the druid accepts the counter with laughter. [Gotta look up all the net rules... feel free to correct the results if Murphy didn't manage to do as he intended]

Travel to Hovel
For the journey to Hovel and beyond, someone else can ride Murphy's dog, Skipper, for now. His mother Bekka has her pony, Masky Maisie (the cinnamon-colored mare has black circles around her eyes), and there's room for one more to ride behind her. Murphy can wildshape into a mount for the journey to Hovel, large enough to bear up to four - we should be able to get everyone over to Hovel at a movement rate of 40, rather than 20, as time is of the essence - so, arrival should be closer to noon, than 3pm.

At Hovel
Bekka takes her leave of the group shortly after arriving in Hovel, blessing all in the name of Ma'ab and Flower, and gifting each one a blueberry goodberry from her garden. She says she is heading over to Kendry's and Airin's burrow.

Taking Bliss's observation and suggestion as a good reason to overexplain, Murphy answers, "Well, Bliss if I cast it from here, I could get the area that Aunt Nilli lives in - and she said she never saw a Wolpertinger there - well, as of a few years back, when she told me that. My spell'd catch about, maybe 40 square miles of the northeast edge of the Culverwood? If we go the three miles up past Buddy's Falls, though, I could read maybe 80 square miles in. Better yet, take a swan boat up to the fork in the river, then down the other tine towards the Culverwood. About two hours after setting out, I could catch from close to the upper tip of the woods, and down from there 22 miles, for a total area of 140 square miles. That's actually a great idea, Bliss - I'm glad you thought of it!"

Murphy is sincere in attributing the whole idea to Bliss, as he had been thinking of first casting it a fair ways farther downstream - rather than just a few miles downstream.

"Oh, and Pressi tells me she already used up the slot for shadow walking, so can't do it today."

"Say, let's hire us two river guides. Really, one, two or three guides, your call. Could you, Bliss, take someone with you and negotiate for them to travel with us? I'll see if my cousin Ellis has a carriage to spare to get us all quickly to the dock beyond the falls.

With the guides' help, though, we could be in a few hours to a place where I could take in about 200 square miles, a bit farther down to the southwest. So, one to grab the upper northeast, and a second spell for closer to Trader's Corner. And, if we're lucky, we can make the Corner before nightfall.

"Let's all try to meet in half an hour at the Greentree Livery. You've been there before, Bliss - you know, my cousin Penelope, and her husband Ellis? Daughter Clara? Right." He points out the livery to everyone. "As soon as we have a river guide or two, and the livery can have the carriage ready, we can all make haste to Buddy's Falls. It's really beautiful out that way - and loud as we climb the hill not too far off from the falls."

Once he's arranged for a 6-seater carriage rental, he asks about Airin. If she and Kendry are still in town, he runs off for about fifteen to twenty minutes for a quick visit with his brother and sister-in-law, then scoots back to the livery.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Thursday July 26th, 2018 5:28:29 AM
(Before they leave) “Miss Piggy can carry two, would you like to ride with me Talia?” Succotash offers.

(Arrival at Hovel) “I’m confused Murphy, why do we need a carriage?” Succotash asks, “wouldn’t it be faster just to continue riding down to the river?”

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle) 
Thursday July 26th, 2018 7:11:09 AM

Bliss starts counting on his fingers.

"One, I'm fast as a kitty. Wowsy, I'm fast as me!" [OOC: Bliss has move 40 as a halfling and move 50 as a kitty]

"Two and three, Miss Pressi can ride Harper and he's fast." [OOC: Harper is size Medium and has move 50]

"Four and five and six, Miss Piggy can carry Sir Succo and Hobie." Bliss laughs. "Miss Piggy will give you piggy-back rides!" [OOC: Miss Piggy moves at 40]

"Seven and eight, Sir Kezzem can ride Rumpus." [OOC: Rumpus moves at 40, and Brian, you should totes buy Rumpus some magic horseshoes!

"Nine, Miss Talia, you are great at magic right? Maybe you can fly?" [Overland Flight is the default gain for Talia's bloodline at level 11 and grants fly speed 40]

"Ten and, um, eleven, Mister Murphy can be something fast if he wants I bet! You could be something fast that JTT can ride." [OOC: Wolf, say, moves at 50]

Having run out of fingers, Bliss looks around. "That's everybody, right? So we don't need to hire a coach! On a beautiful day like today!" [OOC: The party should be moving at 40 overland in general, I think.]

"So we can just scoot a few miles over to the outskirts of Hovel, at the edge of the magic forest -- but not IN it -- and then Mister Murphy can Detect Flibbertigibbits! Whatchamacallits. Thingamabobs. The funky bunnies."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23  d20+13=23 ; d20+19=31 ;
Thursday July 26th, 2018 11:16:30 AM
Hovel Rolls
threefold aspect crone, then normal - L4 spell
Wold Blood pass
Ritual of Warding pass
cast surrender blood, CLW on Bliss - 2 L1 spells
assist shared spell (shield of faith extended)
L5 spells used - should be none

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

Pressi is, a bit flabbergasted when Murphy claims that she had used her level 5 spell slots for the day, which seems to have resulted from some confusion as she tried to explain that she needs the eight hour rest to refresh her spells after she casts them, which she thought she did that morning. (The last spell she cast, Animal Growth, was an L5 spell but that was a couple of days ago she thought, and at any rate she gets 2 L5 spells in crone form.)

To some degree, though, she knows this is more than just Murphy trying to maximize speed or get his way. He spent some of his hard earned money on this magical item that should solve the problem, only to find that a caster can take it away with a single spell. Back when she was trying to make it as a roguelike monk, she found herself trying to make flour and talking teddy bears work while casters just zapped away, so she knows the frustration he must be feeling. So, let him have today at least, she supposed.

But when he instead decides to hire a caster, she balks. "First, I thought the entire point of coming here was not to see if this thing happened to be in the back yard. I thought it was to get a guide or sailor and we could probably make due with a river guide. Second, movement rates aside, I didn't think we were going to leave Hovel that far - as Bliss said, maybe to the edge. So yeah, I am not sure what the carriage is for, besides aesthetics."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Thursday July 26th, 2018 12:50:18 PM
Hobie is frustrated and will speak up again.

"I don't understand why we are wasting time and money with boats and river guides. Pressi can get us to our destination in THREE HOURS. Why are we not doing that? If it's a matter of her not having the spell prepared, then it's gonna be faster and cheaper just to sleep here for the night and leave with the spell in the morning. There is no reason at all to waste our time with all of this other nonsense, Murphy!"

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Thursday July 26th, 2018 1:06:42 PM
“Hey Bliss, are funky bunnies like the funky chicken?”

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle) 
Thursday July 26th, 2018 1:09:06 PM

Bliss laughs at the paladin's chicken joke.

And oh yeah, Bliss casts his Threefold Aspect spell every day like Pressi does, but instead of being an old crone, he's a youngster -- or a young tomcat, say -- under the influence of the spell, at least by default.

So he's down that plus a Surrender Blood plus a use of his rod every day before breakfast.

Well, ok, before second breakfast anyway.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+8=25 ;
Thursday July 26th, 2018 6:35:56 PM
Hovel
Talia wonders if Murphy was just being cautious with respect to the Culverwoods and his extended family...She says, in her most diplomatic tones, "Hey Mister Murphy, I believe I understand you intentions with respect to your extended family, and your extensive network of friends and acquaintances here in the Crescent Valley. You were just hoping to cultivate your network for the information to bring us to our collective goal must sooner. I reckon, you may have swung and missed a couple of times, though."

"Perhaps, we can regroup, rest, and head out tomorrow morning?" wonders Talia aloud to the group.

Rayya

When finished speaking to the group, Talia, once again looks towards the heavens, and whistles loudly...hoping Rayya isn't lost.



Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Thursday July 26th, 2018 8:08:36 PM

Murphy steps back as his friends misunderstand him, and he them. "I - I thought we had agreed - Bliss, you had. Pressi, you had. And that..."

Murphy says, "Fine. No one wants to go on the boat. I'm going to fly over - forget the boat idea. I'll fly to the edge of the Culverwood, and cast the spell. You can go on without me if you wish. I don't care. I'll try to see if the critters are close at hand. If you go on without me, I'll see about flying to the Emerald City. I've traveled before through the Culverwood on my own. I will catch up when I can.

"Sure, you all may be right. I may be wrong. I'm going to find out what is close to home first, anyway."

He transforms into an air elemental, says, "See you in a bit, or not. If you wait, I should be back in about two hours or so. If not, then, I'll try to fly to a rendezvous later."

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle) 
Thursday July 26th, 2018 10:06:45 PM

"Aw, Mister Murphy," says Bliss. "Don't be like that. Of course we'll ..."

OOPS, he turned into a thing and flew away ...

"... OF COURSE WE'LL WAIT FOR YOU!" Bliss shouts after his sensitive druid friend.

[OOC: Um, missed posting yesterday, but made up for it today! Heh.]

DM Ken: Havoc in Hovel 
Thursday July 26th, 2018 11:01:11 PM

Things get a little chaotic at the docks. Pressi is willing to let Murphy have his way here, for a few good reasons, but a few of the more outspoken halflings still take issue with what seems to be a faster plan.

Murphy, having none of it, transforms into an air elemental and gives a bit of finality to his thought process.

"See you in a bit, or not. If you wait, I should be back in about two hours or so. If not, then, I'll try to fly to a rendezvous later.", he says. He then flies away, without any real way to set a rendezvous point, other than if the party stays put.

The others now have a choice to make. Rest and leave with Pressi in the morning, and try to send word to Murphy on where to meet them, or wait for their headstrong Druid to return.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Friday July 27th, 2018 12:28:43 AM
Thursday Post:

Kezzem plays dead when Murphey nets him.

He sighs then as Murphey storms off.

"Hey Press, Murph's at it again. Don't get me wrong, I love the guy like a brother...well, probably a bad analogy given my family...but he can be so...opinionated...sometimes."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Friday July 27th, 2018 1:40:08 AM
Hobie will kick the dirt when Murphy flies away. He is visibly angry.

Was there some sort of vote before I joined you guys that made Murphy the king of Humbles Sword? Press, you need to stand up to your boyfriend, and tell him it’s not okay for him to force his will over the rest of the team, and over you. You had a great idea, and best I could tell every single one of us supported your idea, until he exerted the force of his personality over you, and you just gave in. You regularly have great ideas, but then just give in as soon as he suggests something else. I’m not one to pry into other people’s relationships, the two of you can handle your stuff however you like. But when it’s affecting Humble’s Sword, I’m going to speak up.

Hobie turns and fires an arrow at a tree or wooden sign post, etc. letting out a bit of his anger with the arrow. He takes a few steps away and let’s himself cool down.

He thinks to himself that maybe he’s being too harsh, after all Murphy just died a few days ago, who knows how that is affecting him, and who knows how his temporary loss has affected Pressi.
After cooling off a bit he turns back to the group, and towards Pressi.

I’m just trying to say that I want to be a part of a team where every voice matters equally. In my whole time here we have never discussed any kind of “government” for lack of a better word for Humble’s Sword. We have no formal decision making process, and often that leads to one personality taking charge, and sometimes steamrolling everyone else. Maybe we should set something up.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85  d20+27=39 ; d20+15=35 ;
Friday July 27th, 2018 2:25:00 AM

Murphy disappears very quickly from sight, moving southwest initially at 555 feet per round, or over a mile a minute. He arrives at his destination, about 1 mile to the east of the river into the Culverwood, in about 12 minutes. He settles into a tree, and looks around for a good spot in which to cast the spell [Perception: 39; Survival: 35 (nat 20)]. He wants to ensure he has not landed in someone's nest, and that he is not going to have squirrels, or worse, chittering at him. He pauses a few moments to catch his breath, as it were.

"Pressi. I've found a good spot," he communicates with her telepathically. "I'll start the spell in a moment. Let people know I'm all right. I anyone wants to punch me when I get back, I'll try to stand still for it. And, this is a lot faster than boats, just as I know your shadow walk is. Will let you know what I find."

He casts know direction (lets him know true north), and checks out local marks to ensure he knows exactly where the points of the compass lie before beginning, and also marking the position of the sun in the early midafternoon sky.

He settles in the tree, hidden by its branches and foliage, to cast commune with nature. The casting, verbal and somatic, requires ten minutes. His focus is on the presence of wolpertingers in the far northeast corner of the Culverwood, as shown within the red circle on this map.

If he discerns the presence - and is certain he is not confusing rabbits with wolpertingers, he marks in his mind the direction and distance from his chosen spot. He then flies straight up several hundred feet to get his bearings further, again casting know direction. If more than one - flock? - of the critters are found, he fixes each in his mind.

After that, he communicates with Pressi his findings. "Heading back now, love." He initially takes a more leisurely path back so as to mentally mark a few more checkpoints so as to be able to retrace his path, and especially when he comes out over the river. Then, crossing over in the air still, he flies on the Red Hills side, seeing the pathway some travelers and traders use on that side of the river, and then resumes full speed ahead, back to his friends.

Round trip, barring any time-sapping encounters, ends up at around 45 minutes.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Friday July 27th, 2018 4:39:56 AM
Succotash puts his hand on Hobie’s shoulder, and says, “Calm down my friend, I agree with you, but it’s no use getting in a tizzy over, we all know that Murphy is doing what he thinks is best, even if the rest of us disagree with him sometimes, he still has our best interests at heart, even if he’s wrong “.

Turning to Talia, Succotash says, “As one who understands attachment to an animal, has Rayya ever disappeared like this before, and is there anything the rest of us can do to help locate your owl?” To the rest of the party, he asks, “Does anyone have any spells that could help Talia locate Rayya?”

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)   d20+17=35 ;
Friday July 27th, 2018 8:36:38 AM
(Sorry for no post yesterday, but even so, there is nothing I can add here)

Zaragosa stays out of the conflict between the members. Murphy seemed to be in charge at first but it looks like not all agreed with him. He tried to stay out of it but as they went, he would tell stories that he heard of other adventurers to try to calm anyone down who would listen.

performance = 35

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle) 
Friday July 27th, 2018 12:04:13 PM

Bliss does not really mind waiting. He tells Hobie, "I would vote for you for party leader, Hobie!"

He muses ... maybe we could have a different party leader every so often until we figure out who is best for the job. Plus it is nice to share, so everybody can get a turn trying it out. Except Bliss. "I want to be a hero, not a general!" And not Murphy. "Wowsy, I love that nut job, but he would not make a good leader."

Bliss listens to JTT's highly entertaining stories delightedly and then passes around some elven waybread from his elven lunchbox. "Try some, it's good!" He even slips a taste to Rumpus, Harper, and Miss Piggy.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23 
Friday July 27th, 2018 12:13:15 PM
Pressi stands there, stunned but not surprised. This is not the first time he has done this, shapeshifted and flew ahead on a lark or to prove he was right, as if he truly believed his forms made him bulletproof or that any success at this attempt proved anything.

At the speed he achieved (not really sure how), she couldn't follow him even if she wanted to. (She could close the gap by riding harper, changing to a small air elemental, or hitting the broom, but doing so would still leave a gap that endangered them both.

To Hobie and JTT (and other newbies), "Murphy has been the leader since the inception of the group, in part because he usually sees the nitty details when making overall plans... But the group itself is supposed to be a collective with some level of voice with decisions like this. Murphy... never entirely understood this. Nor did he ever understand that sometimes you have to listen to the group even when it's gone "completely insane" or "back on its word," let alone at times when you can't articulate your own position and you suddenly add new elements." She shakes her head. "So... I'm not exactly expecting him to run into anything this close to a town, anyway. He'll blow off some steam, we'll rest and hire a river guide here, and the jump can wait until morning. Or bandits will kill him and I'll try to resurrect him into someone capable of learning. And if anyone else has any suggestions for things we can do here, gathering resources or information perhaps, it appears we have an hour or two to do it."

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

Pressi finds an area to begin a divination attempt (doesn't hurt to just ask) and to research locate creature (is the picture enough, she wonders) when Murphy gives her a call, telling her she'll stand still if anyone wants to punch him.

Yeah, we came to a consensus about that. I've been allowed the first shot. Don't worry about standing still, I have that covered.

I cannot believe that we are ONCE AGAIN having this same conversation. How many times has this resulted in success? What has to go through that airhead brain of yours that makes you think this is a good idea. No, seriously tell me what you think the best case scenario of your action is.

Meanwhile, we're all stuck here trying to figure out why you wanted to sail around before we left to get this stupid flying rabbit for some stupid arrangement that nobody seems to want. This is why I decided long ago never to get ma...

Pressi stood there for a while, turning her mind off.

Look, just get back here and we can figure this stuff out when we're all calmer.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Friday July 27th, 2018 12:41:26 PM
Rumpus excepts the elven bread and thanks Bliss with a big sloppy pony kiss.

"Maybe you should be the leader, Press," suggests Kezzem.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Friday July 27th, 2018 12:51:56 PM
If Murphy doesn't encounter anything in his trip and is able to return to the group as he wrote in his post:

Hobie, now calm, will approach Murphy.

Murph, I'm sorry that I lost my temper. I'm not sorry about the things I said, because they were true, but I'm sorry for how I said them. It was wrong of me to fly off the handle like that.

He pauses, and looks away, then looks back at Murphy

When I was traveling with that band of thieves, we had a guy named Brynn Glabbrus, real nasty human son-of-a-gun. He didn't give two shakes what anyone else had to say, he just forced his will on the group. There was this job, robbing this wizard's house. The rest of us wanted to wait, scout it out for a few weeks, do our due diligence. Brynn wanted us to rush in and do the job one weekend while the old man was traveling.

Hobie takes a loooooong pause at this point. His face is filled with emotion, it's hard to tell what exactly. Anger is there. Sadness is there. Regret is there.

His personality was so strong, we gave in. We did the job that weekend. We didn't take the time to learn exactly how powerful that wizard was. We were in way over our heads, but we didn't know it. My cousin, Remy, Roscoe's brother, the one he never talks about, was our rogue. It was his job to check for traps. He didn't see that the wizard had warded his valuables with a Symbol of Death.

Hobie starts to get choked up a bit.

He didn't stand a chance, that spell was too powerful. I grabbed Remy's lifeless body and we got the heck out of that house.

At this point Hobie's face has one clear emotion, anger.

The next night, after we had buried Remy, I put three arrows in Brynn's sleeping body, and I took my gear and ran.

Hobie's face softens quite a bit as he stares off into the distance

I should have stood up to him, put my foot down, maybe Remy would be laughing with Roscoe in Humble's Ford right now. Maybe he and I would both still be thieves. I don't know.

He pauses again.

I'm not saying this to say that I would kill my teammate again. That's not who I am anymore. I wish I hadn't done it then, and I'd never do it now. But a party has many voices for a reason, and I just don't want to see anyone steamrolled again.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Friday July 27th, 2018 1:31:54 PM
“Thanks Bliss, this is some tasty stuff!” Succotash exclaims. Maybe Miss Piggy gives a squeal of delight and nuzzles into Bliss, nearly knocking him over.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5  d20+12=18 ;
Friday July 27th, 2018 1:49:41 PM
Once/If Murphey Returns, Kezzem walks up to him.

"Murph, you've got this coming."

He throws a net over his head.

Attack: 1d20 + 12 = 18.
Murphey Touch AC 17.
Murphey is Entangled!

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+8=21 ;
Friday July 27th, 2018 5:33:18 PM
Talia wonder's how far Buddy Fall's are from Hovel. On the Map, it doesn't look all the far!

Talia will mingle amongst the local asking about Mongo Hardbottle and Linnea, trying to locate any traces of what could be her family. [Using Diplomacy:21]

ADM Kim posting for DM Ken (he is having trouble posting from his phone directly) 
Friday July 27th, 2018 11:06:00 PM
Murphy spell goes off without a hitch, there's no evil creatures in the trees waiting to eat him as soon as he lands. He asks the spell very specific questions pertaining to wolpertingers, but finds that the land around him is less than cooperative. Murphy make a diplomacy check dc20 to learn any relevant information about this Fay creature that lives within the Culver wood.

The rest of the party weights, some share bits of their history others decide to look around to find out about their own history. Well nobody is able to give Talia any direct information on her family, she is informed about a group called The sages Guild. It seems if anybody is going to be able to track down lost lineage it might be them. Of course, the sages Guild is very well known for doing nothing for free.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85  d20+13=27 ;
Friday July 27th, 2018 11:18:16 PM

Murphy appeals to the power of the Culverwood to reveal the presence of any wolpertingers.

Diplomacy 27.

Possible adjustments (did not include in roll): Murphy was born in the Culverwood. Has lived in the Culverwood. Has treated well with it. Though he begins to doubt the wisdom of this particular task.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Sunday July 29th, 2018 5:25:08 AM
Murphy post 20180728

"Murphy learns that there are no wolpertinger in range of his spell.
He also gets the distinct impression that the Culverwood is both hesitant
to answer and annoyed that it had to give an honest answer."
-Email from DM Ken to Kim


Murphy thanks the Culverwood for putting up with his annoying queries. And he returns to the group, arriving about 45 minutes after he left. He lets Pressi know he is on his way back, and that he'll be ready for the shadow walk, if everyone else is.

After he lands and unwildshapes, he says, "No wolpertinger in the northeast. I just wanted to check, to see one way or another."

He gives, gingerly, Pressi a hug. "Based upon what you said to me when I was out there, we have some things to talk about, I reckon."

When Kezzem nets him, he falls to the ground, arms and legs splayed out as far as the net will allow. "I've been properly gotten, Sir Kezzem, by a paladin, to boot."

Then Hobie tells a story from his past. "I am so sorry to hear about your cousin Remy," Murphy says quietly after hearing the whole thing. He lets that sit for a few moments. "And, I take your point." He waits to see if Hobie has more to say.

When that conversation reaches a reasonable breaking point, he says to Bliss, "I appreciate your suggestion to check on the northern portion of the Culverwood. Perhaps I should have given up entirely on even bothering to cast the spell, as most are pretty excited about heading straight over to Emerald City. Rather than arguing further about boats, or river guides, or whatever, I realized that the whole thing could be taken care of much more quickly."

Addressing everyone, he says, "Had the Culverwood shown the prey we seek to be nearby, then we might have gone that way. As it is, I believe none are to be found up here. So, shall we follow Bliss's initial suggestion, and take advantage of Pressi's conveyance? I had misunderstood, thinking that she would need to sleep another eight hours in order to be able to cast the spell. Now, Press, am I right to think that you can cast it now?"

"If so, is there anything to keep us here? Other than maybe getting a note from the Mayor to convey to the Emerald City leadership for the purpose of diplomacy." He holds up his hands, "No, I'm not suggesting we do that."

"If it helps, I am accustomed to slower modes of travel. Walking or riding through the woods can take a good long time, and yes, I resisted that notion. When the options changed... Looks like all of us, as our abilities stretch and grow, need to adjust our thinking as to just what we might be able to get done, and what makes the best sense for the situation."

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Sunday July 29th, 2018 8:35:23 PM
Kezzem helps Murph out of the new.

"Just be glad that we paladins smite evil and don't smite stubbornness."

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle) 
Sunday July 29th, 2018 10:53:07 PM

Bliss giggles when Kezzem says, "smite stubbornness."

"Okay Sir Kezzem," he tells the paladin, "You can be my favorite paladin too. You always make me laugh."

The little guy turns serious for a moment as he addresses his druid friend. "Mister Murphy, remember you got murdered when you went off on your own before. Please don't do that. It's not fair to the people who care about you."

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Monday July 30th, 2018 5:52:41 AM
Succotash seems a little off with the mention of going to the northern parts of Culverwood, up til now it didn’t seem real, but now it seems he will be there in a few hours or less, and the thought is a bit unsettling to the Paladin.
“How far from Merrydale will we be?, the unsettled Paladin asks, “You see, that’s where I’m from”.

“I was born and raised there, but haven’t been back for a long time”. “You see, my father wanted me to join the family business working as a silversmith in the shop that has been in my family since we settled in Merrydale”. “Of course I had no love, or talent for that kind of work, and really just wanted to become a Paladin “. “On my coming of age birthday, I told my parents that I wanted to leave Merrydale to seek training as a Paladin”. “My father was furious, and told me that if I left, then I shouldn’t bother coming back”. “Well, that was several years ago, and this will be the closest to Merrydale that I have been since”. “I know we are on a tight schedule, and I’m not asking that we head there, but I guess I’m feeling a little nostalgic, and was thinking I need to go home someday soon, and try to make amends with my father “.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Monday July 30th, 2018 5:54:55 AM
OOC.. been doing some research on the geography of the Wold, and decided to give Succotash a hometown.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23 
Monday July 30th, 2018 3:19:34 PM
Pressi smiled at the idea that she should be leader, but felt like she ought to be at least a little fake modest before accepting.

She considers her next move. Clearly, there is some discussion of which town to travel toward. Talia and Succotash both want to go to towns related to their past. Murphy and others are ready to head toward Emerald City now. Pressi also does some mental calculations to determine what time it will be when the journey is completed - if its close to sundown now, they might prefer sleeping here to sleeping in the woods even if its just outside the city. Otherwise, "Yes I just need to surrender blood first and I can take everyone whenever you are ready." (Ultimately, this is what she does unless anyone objects.)

Before she does anything, though, she takes a moment to talk to a river guide to determine how well he knows the culverwood (even if they never enter a boat, it might still be a good idea) and how much it costs. She figures she will find better guides at Emerald City, though.

She also takes some measure to calm everyone down. It is, after all, time to move forward.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Monday July 30th, 2018 4:36:03 PM
[OOC: Did Bliss share with everyone that Mister Murphy would be back in under an hour?]

While Talia awaits Mister Murphy's return, Talia continues to search for Rayya. While Talia separates herself from the group a by putting some distance between herself and the rest of the pack, Talia brightens up! Looking up and squinting a bit, she smiles to herself! Mumbling under her breath, "There you are my precious....Mommy's been worried sick over you absence!" In the distance about 50 feet up in the sky a small circle appears and begins to grow larger as it approaches Talia's location....before long a small bird swoops down and settles on Talia's shoulder, rubbing up against her and hooting.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Monday July 30th, 2018 5:05:12 PM
(Jairus asked me to post for him because his mother-in-law is in the hospital, and he isn’t sure when he’ Get a chance to post)

After Succotash shares his past, and his desire to try to reconcile with his parents, Zaragosa offers, “As one who never knew his parents, I would say that you should do what ever you can to redeem your relationship with your parents, and I would like to offer my company in said endeavor, as soon as our quest is completed of course”.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Monday July 30th, 2018 5:08:57 PM
When Talia returns with Rayya, Succotash exclaims, “What a lovely owl, I’m so glad she came back to you!”

DM Ken: Havoc in Hovel 
Monday July 30th, 2018 6:41:07 PM

With Murphy returned, some basic amends are made. Hobie makes his feelings clear, Bliss clears the air, Pressi considers herself in a leadership role, Succotash thinks about home, and Talia recovers her owl, after a bit of motherly worry.

With all the red tape and party adjustments handled, all that's left is a step into... THE SHADOW REALM

Pressi, when she is ready, casts her spell.

Bliss (AC25, HP99of109) (Cayzle) 
Monday July 30th, 2018 7:18:56 PM

Bliss fusses over the owl. "I used to have a bird friend," he says wistfully. "You are extremely beautiful" he says to Talia's owl.

He has not kept any secrets, so anything he knows he tends to blab out.

Bliss is excited to travel in the Realm of Shadows, and he casts an extended barkskin (boosted with Surrender Blood to CL10) and switches to kitty mode for the transit.

Resources used today:
Threefold Aspect spell
Surrender Blood x2
Barkskin
Two uses of meta rod of extend
0of80 rounds of CL12 Shield of Faith

Note: CatBliss sheet updated here

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 
Monday July 30th, 2018 11:33:40 PM
"So, what do we have to do, Press? Gather around in a circle and hold hands or something?"

"Hey Bliss, didn't you used to play around with shadows, any thing we should know going in?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Tuesday July 31st, 2018 4:56:21 AM

"Bliss, I'll never forget the time when Graeff sent me out into the Culverwood to track down members of the Yoke of Culver, to deliver them a letter, advising them of the loss of the Giant Tower, the growing threat from giants of the Scab, and requesting their help. I found them to be pretty crabby people. They didn't agree to help us, but at least promised not to hinder us.

"Shoot - I'm getting off point again. When you learned I would be going off by myself into the Culverwood, you send your shadow-self, Pookie, to accompany me. And I did find comfort in having your shadow along on that trip. Pookie stayed with me the whole way out to find them. But, on the way back home, he somehow told me it was time for me to go on without him. I was very sad when your shadow left me, Bliss.

"And now, I'm happy. I'm happy that we'll be able to travel together, all sharing shadows on this journey. I was told once that some people from the Southern Continent have a blessing: 'Many shadows' is what they say to someone they wish well."

Murphy looks forward to learning what a shadow walk is really like.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Tuesday July 31st, 2018 5:34:03 AM
Succotash draws Twinklesting from her scabbard, and takes a moment to marvel at the blue light emitted by the blade, then, he says, “I’m ready when ever you are Pressiâ€. Then to Miss Piggy he says, “you wait here girl, as soon as we arrive I’ll call you to me, I’d take you into the shadow realm, but Pressi’s spell has it’s limitationsâ€. Miss Piggy gives a nod of understanding, and then nuzzles her friend/master.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Tuesday July 31st, 2018 5:43:17 AM
(For Jairus/Zaragosa)

Zaragosa has been doing his best to stay out of the conflict with Murphy, as he sees it, he’s the “new guyâ€, and he needs to earn his place within Humble’s Sword, as a result, he is relieved that the tension has been lifted. He draws his rapier, and gives a nod to Pressi saying, “I’m ready maladyâ€.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 74/94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23 
Tuesday July 31st, 2018 10:44:32 AM
In response to Kezzem's question, Pressi tries not to sweat as she flips through the pages. "Uh... you know what, why not." (You do have to start with all the travelers in physical contact, so a circle makes as much sense as anything else for now, but we'll basically be traveling in a chain holding hands or conga lining, Pressi out front and Harper in the rear.)

"We also need an area of dim light so it looks like we are waiting until the moon comes out, unless anyone else has a suggestion. Ghost sound has been preloaded with a variety of traveling music from the last couple of decades and headphones are available upon request. In the event of an emergency, my respect will be given to the person who panics most creatively. Please secure your own panic first before assisting others in their panic. If you find yourselves traveling to the shadow realm, well, it beats the in-flight movie. Ok, when everyone is ready...."

Pressi uses another spell of surrender blood so she can carry 11 creatures. That's eight heroes, two pets (Harper and Rayya, Pressi ordering the former not to eat the latter.) and one spot to spare. They all hold hands around in the moonlight, and Pressi begins the incantation....

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Tuesday July 31st, 2018 2:40:45 PM
Hobie grabs the hand of whoever is next to him and readies himself for travel.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Tuesday July 31st, 2018 4:19:15 PM

"A dim light? Ellis' hay barn - just go in there, shut the barn door almost all the way - and there you go," Murphy suggests. "And the cats keep the rat population down there."

He adds Skipper to the line. He places one hand on Pressi's shoulder, and the other on the dog's collar. "Somebody can grab my elbow, or my belt, or Skipper's tail."

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Tuesday July 31st, 2018 6:06:24 PM
Upon hearing about the need to hold hands, Succotash resheaths Twinklesting and offers to link hands with Talia, and Zaragosa.

(For Jairus/Zaragosa)
Zaragosa Follows Succotash’s lead and sheaths his rapier, and then gladly excepts Succotash’s out stretched hand.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Tuesday July 31st, 2018 6:56:39 PM
While the rest of the group prepares for the "Leap of Faith" with the Shadow Walking...Talia speaks to her friend Rayya. "Now be a good friend while I'm away. We should be back before too long, and I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers if I should be delays." Talia explains to Rayya, as Rayya stays at her as if to read her lips.

"Ready when you are Friends," says Talia to Mister Murphy, Bliss, & Pressi as everyone prepares for this swift journey.

DM Ken: Havoc in Hovel 
Tuesday July 31st, 2018 6:59:39 PM


The transition into the realm of shadow feels something like slowly being submerged in a pool of water. The atmosphere is cool, and feels fluid. You aren't slowed down like your walking under water or anything, but everything feels like there's a layer of resistance that just feels alien.

Things look more or less the same, though shadows stretch longer and light is nowhere to be seen. Instead, most things give off a grey, wispy aura, that serves to both illuminate and obscure.

The travel itself is a strange feeling. Each regular step you take puts large patches of ground beneath you, and stopping movement doesn't quite feel like a precise art. Even once your body is still, something like inertia serves to move the land around you in strange ways until it slides to a stop. You move through, over, and around vast patches of woods and forest, the trees of which bend silently towards you, as if expecting you to save them from this strange other place.

Nearly an hour into your travel, you start to feel some fatigue. You woke early, traveled a long way, stayed awake till moonlight, and continue to travel.

All players, constitution check DC 12 to avoid fatigue. (Con mod + d20. Some feats give a bonus to this check.)

All players, Perception, DC 25.

CatBliss (AC29, HP99of109) (Cayzle)  d20+7=13 ; d20+22=35 ;
Tuesday July 31st, 2018 8:18:30 PM

Bliss in cat form has a Con mod of +3 and the endurance feat for +4, so at +7 he rolls a 13 and is not tired.

His perception is 35 so he sees it.

"MEEOW!" says Bliss in his cat shape.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5  d20+14=21 ; d20+1=13 ;
Tuesday July 31st, 2018 11:34:02 PM
Con DC 12: 1d20 + 3 = 10. Fail.
(Sorry, I misread this and thought it was a Fort Sv, not a Con--the mod should be only be +3).

Perception DC 25: 1d20 + 1 = 13. Fail.

"Wowsers, I'm starting to feel awfully tired. I never knew being shadow was this exhausting. I mean, they are always laying there on the ground or at least leaning on a building or something."



Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85  d20+1=16 ; d20+27=47 ;
Wednesday August 1st, 2018 1:53:57 AM

[I thought, since we can use the dim light of the barn, that we were able to leave Hovel mid-afternoon, rather than waiting until dark - so that travel is not at night, but late in the day... but will roll with this.]

Murphy is not fatigued (16) - this mode of travel is far too engaging. His senses seem heightened, as well (Perception: 47 - nat 20), so he endeavors to discern what he is able.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5  d20=14 ; d20=9 ; d20=15 ;
Wednesday August 1st, 2018 5:37:18 AM
Succotash rolls a 14 as such he is still feeling pretty good. Miss Piggy rolls a 9+3(con)=12 so she’s fine as well. Succotash fails his perception check (15+7=22).
“If anyone needs their fatigue removed let me know. Funny, I asked Pantheon for this mercy because I was often in a position that it was safer to sleep in my armor, never thought I would be defatigueing a Barbarian or shadow walkers”.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5  d20=8 ; d20=3 ;
Wednesday August 1st, 2018 5:48:32 AM
(For Jairus/Zaragosa, it sounds like his mother-in-law isn’t doing well at all, and the doctors don’t think she’s going to make it)

Zaragosa rolls a 8, and is most definitely fatigued. He also fails his perception check (3+7=10)

Feeling rather drowsy after a long day of traveling, Zaragosa says, “I will gladly except your generous offer Mister Slenderstick, unless of course we will be resting soon”.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Wednesday August 1st, 2018 5:52:38 AM
Fixing Succotash’s post:
Forgot Miss Piggy wasn’t following Succotash into the shadow realm. Sorry for any confusion, please disregard her fatigue roll.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+2=11 ; d20+17=31 ;
Wednesday August 1st, 2018 7:32:09 AM
Talia begins to tire while the rest of the group appears to be fine. Although she is tiring she does see whatever can been seen!

Talia says, "This is a interesting way to travel, interesting viewpoint, but it is exhausting!" to no particular person, but more so as a general statement. "How much longer will this trip take? Can I sit awhile?"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 86/94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23  d20+2=17 ; d20+2=4 ; d20+19=27 ; d20+6=24 ; d8+5=12 ;
Wednesday August 1st, 2018 11:17:11 AM
Pressi continues to hike the trail with purpose and vigor, switching from song to song. Towards the back, Harper could be heard panting and whining to keep up. Harper barely misses whatever she is supposed to see but Pressi spots it easily enough.

It goes without saying that she activates the glammer on her armor, disguising it to look like something more cloaklike and inconspicuous in nature. What's the point of traveling if you don't do it in style? She hits herself with a CLW charge before she leaves. She has one hand grasping another PC and the other controlling the shadows as she concentrates.

To Talia, Pressi shouts back that they get there when they get there. (Oh, and to Jack, let him know we want him to hang in there.)

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

Conditions

Pressi
tri form (crone)
ritual of warding
ext shield of faith (86 rounds)

Harper
fatigued
ext shield of faith (86 rounds)

Spells Used

L1: 3/7+1
L2: 0/5+1
L3: 0/4+1
L4: 1/3+1
L5: 1/2+1

one CLW charge

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6   d20+1=8 ; d20+18=36 ;
Wednesday August 1st, 2018 3:18:55 PM
Hobie fails the constitution check and is fatigued. He passes the perception check with a 36.

Hobie begins to feel quite tired as the party moves rushes ahead through shadow

Spells Prepared:

Arcane Object Free Spell

Level 0: Read Magic, Detect Magic, Light, Mage Hand

Level 1: Grease, True Strike, Feather Fall, Enlarge Person, Shield

Level 2: Bull's Strength, Invisibility, Mirror Image, Cat's Grace

Level 3: Fly, Flame Arrow, Rage

(Jon-Paul, have you decided on Talia's spells yet? I know she's a Transmutation specialist, so will she know Haste and be able to cast it on the party at the beginning of battles? If not, Hobie will prepare it instead of Rage, but if Talia were to cast it instead of Hobie, then that would equal 5 extra arrows per encounter, and each arrow is 3d6+17 damage, so that would be real nice. )

DM Ken: Shadow Showdown - LINK TO MAP 
Wednesday August 1st, 2018 5:30:33 PM
DM Note: Forest Squares are difficult terrain.

DM Note: The Paladins can each cure one person of their fatigue, if they have the mercy that does so.

DM Note: Please see the rules for Fatigued.

It was a small thing, at first. A slight buzz in the minds of the various creatures and denizens natural to the plane of shadow. Some were created here, living in shadow as natural as can be. Others, like those that noticed that tiny buzz, were brought here, made into twisted things here, and thus brought as much wretched misery as they could on everything they could find, as it was the only respite that helped them tolerate their own horrible existence.

So a buzz, no matter how slight, still caught the attention of the things that dwell in the shadow. Perhaps it was the presence of two powerful paladins, whose holy auras were a stinging annoyance, and filled them with wrath and spite. Perhaps it was the presence of two blood witches, whose magic drew from the Woldsblood in this realm and was made manifest in another. Perhaps they just sensed something other than the dark and wispy creatures of this land, but the things that lived in shadow knew Humbles Sword was here.

Bliss, Murphy and Pressi were the first to notice them. Appearing, dancing, and swirling in and out of the trees. The remains of fine noble clothing, adorned with jewels and silver and gold collected shadowstuff that caused the finery to gleam with menace. Then Hobie and Talia, too, saw that the shadows had begun to take shape among the trees, enclosing Humbles in a ring of shadow...

"Are you the one who comes to settle the debt?"

The voice is everywhere, in the forest as much as whispering in your ears.

"Are you the one who comes to right the wrong?"

The other creatures pause their frolic through the shadow, and the world waits for your reply.

Spirit Type 1, Knowledge Religion: 13
Spirit Type 2, Knowledge Religion: 15
Spirit Type 3, Knowledge Religion: 17
Spirit Type 4, Knowledge Religion: 18 and Knowledge Nobility 32.


CatBliss (AC29, HP99of109) (Cayzle)  d20+8=17 ; d20+8=21 ;
Wednesday August 1st, 2018 7:22:03 PM

The cat gives Murphy a head butt and looks at the undead.

Bliss figures Murph will take a minute or two to answer.

The cat sits and stares.

Bliss casts a still silent Ill Omen on an undead (pick at random for me, oh kindly DM; Bliss has no clue as to the differences among them. It that undead has spell resistance, then Bliss's roll to over come SR is 1d20+8, or 17. If it has SR as high as 21, Bliss uses a retroactive hero point to boost his penetration roll by +4.

If that works, Bliss then one round later (assuming Murphy is still negotiating) casts a still silent Command Undead. The Will save DC is 16. SR check if needed is a 21.

After that, Bliss turns on his Shield of Faith (swift action) and, if all has gone well, goes over to his controlled undead, purring and bumping it with his head.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85  d8+5=9 ; d20+4=9 ; d20+3=18 ; d20+4=23 ; d20+4=13 ; d20+4=24 ;
Wednesday August 1st, 2018 7:49:36 PM

During the time of travel, Murphy takes a moment to cast cure light wounds upon Pressi, healing 9hp, bringing her to full. He thinks how nice it would be to be able to help his friends overcome their fatigue, but lacks the means to do so. "Thanks, Succotash, for helping our weary friends. Looks like Kezzem and Talia are feeling it, too. Alleah, who used to travel with us, was also able to mitigate fatigue. I miss her. Shel, too, especially."

During the travel, he tells the newcomers to the group some of the stories about Humble's Sword's early adventures. Rescuing Eldon TossCobble from the goblins in the Red Hills; tracking down information on who killed the beloved Sarabella LoveSong, high priestess of Flower; the two trips to the Parley House, during which they conversed with, then killed when attacked, the ogre mage Idafeatu, and months later his twin brother Noyudint. It was Idafeatu who hired Sarabella's assassins, who Idafeatu claimed were all dead.

"My old friend Hazel, a ranger, and his beautiful wife Alouryn, a cleric of Flower, had been accused of the murder of Sarabella, as they were the last people whom some people from Humble's Ford had seen going in to the Temple of Flower - which is now the Temple of Flower and Ffloyd," the druid says. "Odd combination that last fact is."

Especially for the most recent newcomers, he reminds them that they've met these two, as Hazel and Alouryn have been overseeing the Humble's Sword River Burrow, and are in the process of moving in to the new digs with them.

"So, Hazel and Alouryn were falsely accused, and mandated to Angel Springs for a trial - we insisted on going with them, all in a locked coach. Along the way ogres, orcs, a few halflings, and a human attacked us. We got out of the coach, and directly saved the life of Morro Goodbarrel Oakleaf, the investigator."

---------- All the above was written before the DM post -----

Murphy interrupts his story as he starts noticing the gathering about them. "Friends - look who's coming to meet us."

He hears their questions, and projects well that all may hear. "Tell us, please, what is the debt that requires settlement? And what is the wrong which needs to be righted? Answer us, and who you are, that we may better answer you."

The druid does not recognize Spirit Type 1, nor Type 3, nor does he have adequate knowledge of nobility for Type 4. He does, however, recognize Type 2 (23/15), and Type 4 (24/18).

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Wednesday August 1st, 2018 7:58:51 PM

P.S.: Gang, once the Shadow Walk spell was cast, and we initially stepped into the realm of shadows, there is no need to remain touching each other, either in a circle nor a conga line - though perhaps for the first minute or so as we orient to the new environment, maintaining that touch may be of comfort. We simply remain close to one another, keeping an eye on each other. Read toward the end of the spell to see that the touch is not required once we are in the Shadow Plane. -ADM Kim

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6   d20+8=23 ; d3=3 ; d20+8=11 ; d20+8=22 ; d20+8=11 ; d20+8=26 ;
Wednesday August 1st, 2018 11:26:04 PM
Hobie asks the Paladins if one of them can cure his fatigue "It's gonna be a lot harder to use my bow with my strength loss from the fatigue, are either of you able to heal it for me?"

Hobie recognizes the first and third spirits (Knowledge Religion 23 and 22) but not the second or fourth (11 and 11, knowledge Nobility 26).

If the spirits seem hostile, or if Hobie's knowledge gives him any reason to suspect a fight, he will cast Flame Arrow from one of his scrolls.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 
Thursday August 2nd, 2018 5:31:28 AM
Succotash realizes he only has time for one mercy, before all heck breaks loose, so he does some quick mental calculus, thinking, “Well, Talia will probably stay back and cast spells, Hobie’s probably going to stay back and shoot, Kezzem is pretty tough, and will probably be offended anyway, Harper is a pretty tough kitty, but something about Zaragosa screams I’m not as ruff and tumble as the rest of you. With his mind made up, Succotash lays hands on Zaragosa removing his fatigue, then draws Twinklesting, who’s warm glow brings the Paladin some comfort in this depressing realm.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5  d20=12 ; d20=19 ; d20=12 ; d20=6 ; d20=3 ;
Thursday August 2nd, 2018 5:42:32 AM
(For Jairus/ Zaragosa, no update about the mother-in-law)

Zaragosa thanks Succotash for the fatigue removal, then draws his rapier.
Zaragosa is able to identify the first 3 spirits, but I has no idea what the 4th one is.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24, Fatigued; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5  d20+7=8 ; d20+7=14 ; d20+7=19 ; d20+7=23 ;
Thursday August 2nd, 2018 8:55:45 AM
"Sorry, Hobbie, I didn't prepare that spell today. I figured Succo had that covered."

Kezzem attempts to use his new knowledge to identify the spirits.

Knowledge (religion)
Spirit 1: 1d20 + 7 = 8. Nope!
Spirit 2: 1d20 + 7 = 14. Still no.
Spirit 3: 1d20 + 7 = 19. Great Success!
Spirit 4: 1d20 + 7 = 23. Great Success!

Kezzem will also detect evil on the spirits.

"Hey I know what that is! And that one too! It's a ... and a ....!"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (25), HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23 (27), HP 61, CMD 23  d20+17=22 ;
Thursday August 2nd, 2018 4:12:15 PM
Pressi considers using her knowledge ability but everyone seems to have it more or less covered.

"Now, now, I know you think we are the ones to repay your debts but those guys are actually two, maybe three groups back.... Unless one of you know Carlos. If you do, tell that snake he'll get his money when he's got the goods. Otherwise, I'm telling you they are just coming on the next shadow, should be any minute really."

(Bluff 22)

Pressi tries as subtly as she can to cast lesser restoration on Hobie and prepares to move back behind the front line. If she has time, she casts ghost touch on Kezzem's... net.

Both Pressi and Harper swift activate their extended shield of faith, keeping it up for a while.

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

Conditions

Pressi
tri form (crone)
ritual of warding
ext shield of faith (86 rounds)

Harper
fatigued
ext shield of faith (86 rounds)(+4 to AC, doesn't stack with ring)

Spells Used

L1: 3/7+1
L2: 1/5+1
L3: 1?/4+1
L4: 1/3+1
L5: 1/2+1

one CLW charge


Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Thursday August 2nd, 2018 6:04:23 PM
As Talia has little knowledge of organized religions, she begins to cast a spell on herself -- verbalizing and eschewing the materials to cast Displacement on herself. The spell should last 11 rounds.



Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Thursday August 2nd, 2018 6:04:59 PM
As Talia has little knowledge of organized religions, she begins to cast a spell on herself -- verbalizing and eschewing the materials to cast Displacement on herself. The spell should last 11 rounds.

Conditions:

Fatigued (-2 Str & Dex),



CatBliss (AC29, HP99of109) (Cayzle) 
Thursday August 2nd, 2018 8:55:12 PM

The suspense is killing Bliss! He swishes his tail as he watches carefully to see if his magic takes hold.

DM Ken: Shadow Showdown - LINK TO MAP  d20=1 ; d20+6=20 ; d20+6=20 ; d20+6=9 ; d20+6=17 ; d6=5 ; d6=1 ; d20+6=17 ; d6=2 ; d6=2 ; d20+6=22 ; d6=2 ; d6=1 ; d20+6=10 ; d20+6=20 ; d6=4 ; d6=6 ; d8=3 ; d20+6=21 ; d6=6 ; d6=3 ; d8=7 ; d20+6=16 ; d6=1 ; d6=5 ; d8=5 ; d8=4 ; d20+4=20 ; d6=4 ; d20+4=7 ; d20+4=24 ; d20+4=12 ; d6=5 ; d20+4=8 ; d20+4=5 ; d20+4=10 ; d20+4=20 ; d6=5 ; d6=4 ; d100=3
Thursday August 2nd, 2018 11:22:02 PM

Bliss is waiting around to see what these things are about. He randomly picks an enemy, one of those soon to be identified as a Wraith, and hexes it. Murphy is indeed verbose, but it matters not. Bliss's spell slides off the undead spirit. (Weird. It got the exact same save result both times.)

Hobie casts a flame arrow spell on his bow.

Succotash removes Zaragosa's fatigue. It doesn't matter much, the wonderous JTT Zaragosa faints on the spot! (Your kind DM has reduced the difficulty of this encounter, and is temporarily removing Zaragosa from play. I wish him the best, and when he is ready he can return. I won't expect you to play two characters, especially in a combat!)

Kezzem detects evil, and his sight is briefly flooded with dark menacing auras. He will have no reason to hold back.

Pressi removes Hobies fatigue, and she and Harper activate their swift spells.

Talia casts displacement.

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

Murphy and Pressi both give responses to the speaking spirit, but neither seems to be the correct answer it seeks. With a howl of misery, the spirits attack in unison.

Wraith 1. 0 Dmg: Screeches and swoops in, attacking Succotash. Miss.
Wraith 2. 0 Dmg: Screeches and swoops in, attacking Succotash. Hits TOUCH AC 17 for 5 cold damage and 1 strength drain.
Wraith 3. 0 Dmg: Screeches and swoops in, attacking Harper. Hits TOUCH AC 17 for 2 cold damage and 2 strength drain.
Wraith 4. 0 Dmg: Screeches and swoops in, attacking Hobie. Hits TOUCH AC 22 for 2 cold damage and 1 strength drain.
Wraith 5. 0 Dmg: Screeches and swoops in, attacking Succotash. Miss.

White Wraith 1. 0 Dmg: Howls and swoops in, attacking Bliss. Hits TOUCH AC 20 for 10 Cold damage and 3 Dex drain.
White Wraith 2. 0 Dmg: Howls and swoops in, attacking Hobie. Hits TOUCH AC 21 for 9 Cold damage and 7 Dex drain.
White Wraith 3. 0 Dmg. Howls and swoops in, attacking Murphy. Hits TOUCH AC 16 for 6 Cold damage and 5 Dex drain.

Shadow 1. 0 Dmg: Moans and swoops in, attacking Succotash. Hits TOUCH AC 20 for 4 Strength drain.
Shadow 2. 0 Dmg: Moans and swoops in, attacking Succotash. Miss.
Shadow 3. 0 Dmg: Moans and swoops in, attacking Harper. Hits TOUCH AC 24 (nat 20) for 5 Strength drain. Does not confirm.
Shadow 4. 0 Dmg: Moans and swoops in, attacking Talia. Miss.
Shadow 5. 0 Dmg: Moans and swoops in, attacking Murphy. Miss.
Shadow 6. 0 Dmg: Moans and swoops in, attacking Murphy. Miss.
Shadow 7. 0 Dmg: Moans and swoops in, attacking Murphy. Hits TOUCH AC 20 for 5 Strength drain.

Greater Shadow 1. 0 Dmg: "We shall collect our debt!" He sinks below the surface of the ground.He is completely out of line of sight.

DM Edit: Rolling for Talias Displacement. 1-50 hits Talia. 51 - 100 misses Talia.

3. Talia is hit.

CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC29, HP99of109) (Cayzle)  d20+34=42 ; d20+10=19 ; d20+10=17 ; d20+10=14 ; d2+15=17 ; d2+15=16 ; d3+15=16 ;
Friday August 3rd, 2018 1:10:50 AM

Bliss is sad that he does not make a new shadow pal, but he supposes there can be only one Pookie.

He says whew, or at least, the cat equivalent, when a shadow ALMOST touches him. That hit vs touch AC20 is a miss, as, per his CatBliss PC sheet, his touch AC is 21. Oh actually, when you add in the force protection of bracers of armor, that's a 24.

And just to be on the safe side, Bliss decides to fight defensively, so with his ranks in Acrobatics, he's got a touch AC of 27.

Bliss uses a hero point to cast a Divine Favor spell silently and still-ly. That does not provoke an AoO because you do not do so when casting super-fast like.

He uses a swift action to ready his arcane strike. That makes his claws and teeth magical, that is, they can hit, albeit for half damage.

Then he takes a five ft step into the same square as the shadowthing that attacked him [White Wraith 1]. If needed, his tumble check to avoid AoOs is a 42.

Finally, Bliss claws, claws, and bites at the shadowthing. He is base +8, str +4, power att -3, size +2, enhancement +1, div favor +2, def fight -4 = +10 to attack. His damage bonus is +4 str, +6 power att, +1 enhancement, +2 div favor, +2 arcane stike = +15.

Bliss claws vs AC19 for 17/2=8
Bliss claws vs AC17 for 16/2=8
Bliss bites vs AC14 for 16/2=8

Bliss yowls his anger at the undead thing.

Round 1 of div fav
hero point used: 1

DM Ken: I can't find any rules to support Still/Silent negating attacks of opportunity. You didn't cast on the defensive, or as a swift action. A hero point is a standard action, even if it is an extra action. If you want to come back and cast defensively I don't mind, but otherwise Bliss will provoke.

Also, is there a place where Bliss tracks his spells? I see his totals, but by my reckoning he's used 1 1st level slot, and 2 third level slots?

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 75/86 AC 21 Touch 14 Flat 19 CMD 26 Hero Points 6   d20+13=16 ; d20+13=18 ; d20+13=19 ; d20+8=16 ; d6+17=20 ; d6=6 ; d6=4 ; d6+17=19 ; d6=5 ; d6=4 ; d6+17=18 ; d6=5 ; d4=3 ; d6+17=22 ; d6=5 ; d6=2 ; d6+17=20 ; d6=5 ; d6=1 ;
Friday August 3rd, 2018 1:51:15 AM
OOC: Jon-Paul, I didn't see if you answered my earlier question about Talia, does she know Haste? If she doesn't then Hobie would have prepared Haste instead of Rage

(Hobie Passed his knowledge check on the first and third spirits, so what does he know about them?)

"Pressi, do you think I can get some of that ghost touch too?"

He gives Pressi a chance to cast it on him or not, and then he clicks his heals and fires a volley of arrows once he knows what her action is.

He starts with the White Wraiths, and will move to the shadows if he kills them all.
(I forgot Point Blank Shot so I'm adding one to the numbers with the dice above)

These are full damage totals so if Pressi doesn't cast Ghost Touch then the numbers will be half.

Manyshot
Attack 17
Piercing 20, Electric 6, Fire 4 = 30 Total
Piercing 19, Electric 5, Fire 4= 28 Total

Rapid Shot
Attack 19
Piercing 18, Electric 5, Fire 3= 26 Total

Haste
Attack 20
Piercing 22, Electric 5, Fire 2 = 29 Total

Iterative
Attack 16
Piercing 20, Electric 5, Fire 1= 26 Total

=========
Boots of Speed Used 1/10
=========
Spells Prepared:

Arcane Object Free Spell

Level 0: Read Magic, Detect Magic, Light, Mage Hand

Level 1: Grease, True Strike, Feather Fall, Enlarge Person, Shield

Level 2: Bull's Strength, Invisibility, Mirror Image, Cat's Grace

Level 3: Fly, Flame Arrow, Rage

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5  d6=5 ; d6=4 ; d6=3 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ;
Friday August 3rd, 2018 6:10:36 AM
Lay of Hands 7/10
smite evil 4/4
boots of speed 10/10

1st level spells:
lesser regeneration 3/3
2nd level spells:
remove paralysis 2/2
3rd level spells:
heal mount 1/1
cure moderate wounds 1/1

-5 str drain

A much weakened Succotash takes a 5ft step back then grips his holy symbol, and a bright light shoots out of it in a 30ft radius from his body, inflicting 14 damage on all undead within said radius, as he channels positive energy against them. They get a DC 20 will save for half damage.

"We didn't come to fight, but if that's what you want well here you go!", says a frustrated Succotash. Shouting out to his friends, he says, "No one mentioned random undead encounters when we signed up for this trip in the Shadow Realm!"

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric 
Friday August 3rd, 2018 6:12:18 AM
added touch AC to header

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (25), HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23 (27), HP 61, CMD 23 
Friday August 3rd, 2018 7:09:45 AM
Heck of a battle for a travel day. Will try to car post.

Touch AC Pressi 18 (21) Harper 16 (20) both Dragonhide armor

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22/ 18(25, 21), HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23/16(27/20), HP 61, CMD 23 
Friday August 3rd, 2018 11:08:18 AM
Pressi falls silent as all the ghosts swarmed them. But she takes the time to cast ghost weapon for Hobie. She holds off using hero points for the time being.

Harper knuckles down in total defense.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17 (currently 16; 19 vs. White Wraith); HP 119/119, CMD 24; Fatigued (-2 penalty to Str and Dex)  d20+21=38 ; d3+24=25 ; d6=3 ;
Friday August 3rd, 2018 1:19:30 PM
"Not friendlies!" shouts Kezzem in an attempt at warning even as the shadows and wraiths begin to attack. "These things are definitely not friendly!

"Oh no, Kezzem," he mutters to himself as he moves up behind Murphey, "you won't need to prepare any lesser restorations today. We'll be hunting an animal, not life-draining undead, so they will be wasted spells. Why don't you prepare cure light wounds spells instead? Surely they will be more useful."

He actives his smite evil against the White Wraith attacking Murphey.

Attack (include Fatigue penalty and Smite Evil bonus): 1d20 + 21 = 38. Hit!
Damage (including Smite Evil): 1d3 + 13 + 11 (assuming undead) + 1d6 cold = 25 + 3 cold = 28.

----

Abilities:
Lay on Hands 7/day
Smite Evil 4/day (1 used)

Spells Prepared:
1st Level: Cure Light Wounds x3
2nd Level: Shield Other x2
3rd Level: Cure Moderate Wounds x2

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+1=13 ; d20+11=24 ; d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; d4+1=5 ; d4+1=5 ; d4+1=5 ;
Friday August 3rd, 2018 3:15:40 PM
Talia worries that she might not ever see her Rayya again! "Oh, no this just won't do!", says Talia to herself.

Moving quickly in-place, her hands as she speaks seemingly gibberish she casts Magic Missle towards the five creatures surrounding Mister Murphy...the two (2) White Wraiths & the three(3) shadows.

[caster level check: (1d20+11) = 24], If the spell overcomes SR, then the damage to the enemies are: 4,3,5,5,5.

Next round, if Talia is still able, she will cast Fly on herself and move 10 feet above the ground and 1 square west (as if the rose compass is centered on her position [the square above pressi provided pressi doesn't move])

[OOC: first roll was a mistake]

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 75/86 AC 21 Touch 14 Flat 19 CMD 26 Hero Points 6  
Friday August 3rd, 2018 7:17:04 PM
Hobie heard Kezzem’s muttering and shouts back at him while firing his arrows, “Don’t kick yourself Kez, this drain is more than any spell of yours could handle anyway. Stick to what you are good at, knives.”

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 79/85 AC/FF/T 20/18/16(17/18/13) CMB 7/8 CMD 19/22 Dex 9/14 Str 7/12 
Friday August 3rd, 2018 10:16:10 PM

Murphy takes a 5 foot (diagonal - up and left) step to the left of the white wraith (#3), and wildshapes into an air elemental.

He doesn't even talk.

DM Ken: Shadow Showdown - LINK TO MAP 
Saturday August 4th, 2018 3:29:47 AM
(Hey all! I hate to do it in a combat, but I've lost my phone and am out of town. It's 2 am on a hotel lobby computer. Unless someone can notify Carl to pop in and make a post, its only going to be 4 this week.

To clarify, my phone has a gmail authentication. Without it, out of town, I can't log in to email anyone. )

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Saturday August 4th, 2018 6:02:57 AM
[OOC: I have emailed Carl!]

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 79/85 Halfling: AC/FF/T 20/18/16(17/18/13) CMB 7/8 CMD 19/22 Dex 9/14 Str 7/12 Large(Huge) Air El 
Saturday August 4th, 2018 12:44:57 PM

And, even though he doesn't talk, Murphy expends a hero point to transform into a 50' whirlwind.



Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 79/85 Large (Huge) Air Elem. AC/FF/T 24/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 Dex 15/14 Str 11/12 
Saturday August 4th, 2018 12:52:20 PM
Ran out of space on header. This should be good for current form, until the DM takes his turn:
Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 79/85 Large (Huge) Air Elem. AC/FF/T 24/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 Dex 15/14 Str 11/12

DM Carl to the rescue!  d20+6=9 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+6=22 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+6=12 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+4=8 ; d20+4=10 ; d20+4=8 ; d20+4=14 ; d3=2 ; d20+4=18 ; d20+4=6 ; d20+4=19 ; d20+7=16 ; d20+6=21 ; d20+6=15 ; d6=4 ; d6=2 ; d6=2 ; d6=5 ; d20+6=22 ; d6=2 ; d6=2 ; d20+6=19 ; d20+6=24 ; d6=5 ; d6=5 ; d20+4=9 ; d20+4=13 ; d20+11=24 ; d8=1 ;
Saturday August 4th, 2018 8:23:20 PM
Real talk, players: I'm about to mangle this. I'm walking in blind, but I'll do mah best.

Also, don't expect Hemingway. :D

***

Bliss claws twice, but doesn't connect w/ his bite - 15 damage total.

Pressi casts a ghost touch spell on Hobie as Harper hunkers down.

Hobie starts sending arrows at the white wraiths. His first two outright kill the first one, his next two drop the second one, and his last makes the last white wraith pretty grouchy.

Succotash lets fly a burst of positive energy hitting all the undead within a 30' radius...which is all of them. One uppity wraith knuckles through, the rest take the blast full in the face. Nearby friends should remember they're healed by the channel if appropriate.

Kezzem thinks these undead may mean them harm. He starts to smite the white wraith on Murphy, but the wraith is just barely clinging to unlife. Instead, he just finishes it off easy. (Aren't I nice?)

Talia sends magic missiles towards a group of shadows. Already hit by Succotash's positive energy, they're easy prey. Five shadows disappear.

Murphy is in a better place with that white wraith dead. That means time to go air elemental. Then he pushes through and starts whirlwinding.

***

Wraith 1. 14 Dmg: Continues attacking Succotash. Hit touch AC 21 for 4 negative energy damage and 2 CON damage.
Wraith 2. 14 Dmg: Continues attacking Succotash. Hits touch AC 15 for 2 negative energy damage and 5 CON damage.
Wraith 3. 7 Dmg: Continues attacking Harper. Hits touch AC 22 for 2 negative energy damage and 2 CON damage.
Wraith 4. 14 Dmg: Continues attacking Hobie. Hits touch AC 21. Miss.
Wraith 5. 14 Dmg: Continues attacking Succotash. Hits touch AC 24 for 5 negative energy damage and 5 CON damage.

White Wraith 1. Dead
White Wraith 2. Dead
White Wraith 3. Dead

Shadow 1. dead
Shadow 2. dead
Shadow 3. dead
Shadow 4. dead
Shadow 5. dead
Shadow 6. 14 Dmg: Moves after Murphy. Hits touch AC 9. Miss.
Shadow 7. 14 Dmg: Moves after Murphy. Hits touch AC 13. Miss.

Greater Shadow 1. 14 Dmg: Succotash feels a bone-chilling ache on his ankle, and looks down just in time to see a shadowy hand release it's grip and vanish again beneath the ground. Hit touch AC 24 for 1 STR damage. Guess he didn't get too good a grip.

***

There ya go. You'll behave yourselves, now.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17 (currently 16; 19 vs. White Wraith); HP 119/119, CMD 24; Fatigued (-2 penalty to Str and Dex)  5d6=20 ;
Saturday August 4th, 2018 9:08:58 PM
"Hey, these things aren't too tough," observes Kezzem. He follows Succo's lead and channel positive energy. (Damage 20, SV DC 18 half; should hit everyone except maybe the Greater Shadow).

He then moves between Pressi and Succo.

----

Kezzem

Abilities:
Lay on Hands 7/day (2 used)
Smite Evil 4/day

Spells Prepared:
1st Level: Cure Light Wounds x3
2nd Level: Shield Other x2
3rd Level: Cure Moderate Wounds x2



Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 75/86 AC 21 Touch 14 Flat 19 CMD 26 Hero Points 6   d20+13=26 ; d20+13=20 ; d20+13=31 ; d20+8=23 ; d6+17=23 ; d6+17=21 ; d6+17=23 ; d6+17=19 ; d6+17=21 ; d6=6 ; d6=6 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ; d6=2 ; d6=5 ; d6=1 ; d6=3 ;
Sunday August 5th, 2018 5:19:37 PM
(Not sure which of the Shadows are dead and which are alive on the map, but since 5 of the 7 are dead I'm assuming Hobie can 5 foot step to a position safe from AOOs. If not he'll ask Pressi to move 5 feet so he can take her space)

He will take aim, with Ghost Touch active on his arrows, and fire 5 arrows at the remaining creatures, starting with the creatures closest to Hobie and moving farther away with each foe he drops.

Many shot
Attack 26
Piercing 23, Electricity 6, Fire 6 = Total 35
Piercing 21, Electiricty 1, Fire 1 = Total 23

Rapid Shot
Attack 20
Piercing 23, Electricity 4, Fire 5= Total 32

Haste
Attack 31
Piercing 19, Electricity 2, Fire 5 = Total 26

Iterative
Attack 23
Piercing 21, Electricity 1, Fire 3 = Total 25

DM Carl note: Honestly, I'm not sure either. I left it for Ken to update when he's able.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 75/86 AC 21 Touch 14 Flat 19 CMD 26 Hero Points 6  
Monday August 6th, 2018 1:49:57 AM
Thanks for the update, the order of Hobie's attacks will be U10, S14, Q13, M12, moving to the next if any fall.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric 
Monday August 6th, 2018 5:24:21 AM
Overwhelmed by the constitution damage (total of twelve verses his 10 con), Succotash crumbles to the ground dead, with his dieing breath he says, “It’s been an honor serving with you guys, sorry if I failed you”, then looking up he says, “Pantheon, I’m coming home!”

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Monday August 6th, 2018 7:33:48 AM
Talia, just a bit disturbed by the risk to life from the "fast walk" trip, reach into her HHS (Handy HaverSack) and grabs a sunrod. She strikes the sunod to activate it. Speaking aloud to no one in particular," Now we will see what is really going on!" After the sunrod activates, Talia will hold the sunrod high over her head to bring light upon the area and illuminate all that she can!



DM Ken: Shadow Showdown - LINK TO MAP 
Monday August 6th, 2018 1:09:58 PM

DM Ken makes a quick post.

Hey,

Succotash probably isn't dead. He gets a DC 17 fort save to negate the con drains.

CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP99of109) (Cayzle)  d20+34=45 ; d20+8=24 ; d3+13=15 ; d20+8=21 ; d20+8=24 ; d2+13=15 ; d2+13=14 ;
Monday August 6th, 2018 1:18:35 PM

Bliss looks around, not sure who is where. He looks for a foe. If there is one nearby, he takes a five foot step and makes a full attack. If he has to, he moves up to 50 ft to engage and attack a foe.

His acrobatics check is a 45 to avoid AoOs based on movement. That's a 40 if Bliss has to move at speed.

Bliss attacks, at +8 to hit and +13 damage.

Bite only: hits AC24 for 15 damage divided by two is 6.
Claw if possible: hits AC21 for 15/2=7 damage
Claw if possible: hits AC24 for 14/2=7 damage

Bliss is fighting defensively, not raging, and his touch AC is 27 with bracers.

Resource Tracker

Lvl 1: 5+1 (used Surrender Blood x2)
Lvl 2: 4+1 (used domain CL10 Extended Barkskin)
Lvl 3: 4+1 (used Still Silent Ill Omen)
Lvl 4: 3+1 (used Threefold Aspect, Still Silent Command Undead)

Shared Shield of Faith CL13, used 3 rounds of 86
Meta Rod of Extend, used 2 of 3

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric  d20=10 ; d20=4 ; d20=20 ; d6=6 ; d6=4 ; d6=6 ; d6=6 ; d6=6 ;
Monday August 6th, 2018 1:20:07 PM
OOC. Disregard last post (thanks Ken)

Succotash makes his first and third fort saves, so only takes 5 con damage. He uses another channeling doing 28 damage DC 20 will save for half.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 79/85 Large (Huge) Air Elem. AC/FF/T 24/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 Dex 15/14 Str 11/12  2d6+6=8 ; 2d6+6=12 ; 2d6+6=15 ; 2d6+6=14 ;
Monday August 6th, 2018 2:06:29 PM
Murphy, a 50' tall whirlwind, hoovers through R8, possibly slamming into the shadow there (Reflex save vs DC 21 or suffer slam damage 8, followed by a second Reflex save DC 21 or be sucked up into the vortex of the swirling air). The transformed druid also swoops through O10 (dam 12), N10 (dam 15), and N12 (dam 14) - each needing to make the two DC 21 reflex saves. Each creature pulled into the vortex he then deposits, dropping them from the vortex, at I12, I11, I10, I9. He ends his turn at N8 at an altitude of 15'-65'.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d4+1=5 ; d3=1 ; d4+1=5 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=4 ;
Monday August 6th, 2018 3:26:08 PM
[OOC: Thanks Ken]

Talia, just a bit disturbed by the risk to life from the "fast walk" trip, waves her hands furiously speaking to cast Magic Missile to each of the five remaining Wraiths (one missile for each Wraith)! (5,5,2,2,4)

[OCC: ignore the d3..the page moved while I was clicking]

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22/ 18(25, 21), HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23/16(27/20), HP 61, CMD 23  d20+19=25 ;
Monday August 6th, 2018 8:30:18 PM
Harper, who had the fortune of seeing the ghost miss twice, continues to hold her position.

Pressi exhaled as she began to realize the full danger that these wights posed. Taking a five foot step, she hit Succotash with death ward in the hopes of protecting him.

In her other hand (move action), she pulled out a holy water and attempted to listen for the greater shadow's movements. (Perception 25).

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

Conditions

Pressi
tri form (crone)
ritual of warding
ext shield of faith (86 rounds)

Harper
fatigued
ext shield of faith (86 rounds)

Spells Used

L1: 3/7+1
L2: 1/5+1
L3: 1/4+1
L4: 2/3+1
L5: 1/2+1

one CLW charge


DM Ken: Shadow Showdown - LINK TO MAP  d20=10 ; d20=15 ; d20=7 ; d20+6=25 ; d6=5 ; d6=2 ; d20+6=26 ; d20+6=9 ; d6=5 ; d6=5 ; d20+11=15 ; d8=3 ;
Monday August 6th, 2018 9:15:00 PM

Hobie Kills the last two shadows and single wraith, his ghost touch arrows proving to be quite effective against the undead. Cat Bliss kills a third. A channel from Succotash and Kezzem wounds the last three Wraiths, but they still persist.

Murphy's whirlwind sucks the remaining creatures into one spot, but he finds the whipping debris from the whirlwind is of no use in damaging the ethereal enemies.

Talia's magic missiles slam into the last wraiths, killing one. The last two reach for Murphy...

Wraith 4. 41 Dm. Attacks Murphy, hitting touch AC 25 for 5 cold and 2 con damage. DC 17 negates the con.
Wraith 5. 39 Dm. Attacks Murphy, nat 20. Fails to confirm. 5 cold and 5 con damage. DC 17 negates the con.

The Greater Shadow makes no noise. Pressi does see it as it appears and reaches for Hobie. She is pretty sure that if she readies an action, she can smack it with her holy water as it appears.

(Wraiths and shadows have a specific ability to make no noise unless they wish.)

Greater Shadow: 14 dmg. Hits Hobie Touch AC 15 for 3 strength.


Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 69/85 Large (Huge) Air Elem. AC/FF/T 24/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 Dex 15/14 Str 11/12 Con 7/12  d20+9=17 ; d20+9=10 ; 11d6=46 ; d20+27=43 ;
Monday August 6th, 2018 11:48:47 PM

Murphy found he could pick up the wraiths, but they were not really harmed by the swirling winds. If I make it through this, I'm going to need to talk things over with the Catacombs experts, or perhaps find good counsel in the Giggling Ghost, Murphy thinks to himself... and then finds himself further weakened by the wraiths (save vs Con 2, fail vs Con 5).

Not knowing whether he can weather another ability-draining attack or not, the druid ascends to a greater height, and drops out of his whirlwind phase, now again a large air elemental, 130 feet above the shadowy terrain.

He sends down a flame strike, engulfing the remaining wraiths in divine flames, each suffering 46 hp damage - Reflex save DC 24 for half (centered at the intersection of J/K and row 11).
===============
Perception: 43 - Keeping an eye out for the greater shadow, or for any other ethereal bad guys who may show up.
Accumulated damage received from undead: Cold: 6+5+5=16. Dex -5; Str -5; Con -5

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric  d6=6 ; d6=3 ; d6=2 ; d6=3 ; d6=4 ;
Tuesday August 7th, 2018 5:44:13 AM
Lay of Hands 3/10
smite evil 4/4
boots of speed 10/10

1st level spells:
lesser regeneration 3/3
2nd level spells:
remove paralysis 2/2
3rd level spells:
heal mount 1/1
cure moderate wounds 1/1

-6 str drain, -5 con drain (temp hp counter 69/69)

Succotash knows he's burning through his Lay of Hands at an alarming rate, but since it seems the best way, at the moment to mess with this undead menace, so he let's loose another channel doing 18 damage (DC 20 will for half), then he shouts out,a word of encouragement, to his friends, "Hang in there guys, I think we got them on the ropes, or at least I hope we have them on the ropes".

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17 (currently 16; 19 vs. Greater Shadow); HP 119/119, CMD 24; Fatigued (-2 penalty to Str and Dex)  d20+21=29 ; d3+13=15 ; d6=6 ;
Tuesday August 7th, 2018 1:16:01 PM
Kezzem will activate smite evil and ready an attack with his dagger for when the Great S shows itself again.

+1 Frost Returning Dagger:
Attack: 1d20 + 19 +3 (smite evil) - 1 (fatigued) = 29.
Piercing Damage: 1d3 + 2 + 11 (smite evil) + 11 (bonus smite evil damage) - 1 (fatigued) = 15.
Cold Damage: 1d6 = 6.

Adjust for range and/or throwing into melee as necessary.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 75/86 AC 21 Touch 14 Flat 19 CMD 26 Hero Points 6   d20+11=16 ; d20+11=25 ; d20+11=30 ; d20+6=9 ; d6+15=18 ; d6+15=19 ; d6+15=19 ; d6+15=20 ; d6+15=19 ; d6=5 ; d6=2 ; d6=5 ; d6=1 ; d6=3 ; d6=6 ; d6=3 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ; d6=4 ;
Tuesday August 7th, 2018 1:26:21 PM
Hobie reaches for his bow string and finds it difficult to pull back as he's lost some strength. He powers through, and lets loose a volley. (You didn't mention that the greater shadow disappeared, so if he didn't then Hobie will fire all arrows at him, if he did disappear, then add 2 to my first attack roll as Hobie will ready an action to shoot him when he appears)

Manyshot
Attack 16 (or 18 if readied attack)
Piercing 18, Electricity 5, Fire 2
Piercing 19 Electricity 5, Fire 1

Rapid Shot
Attack 25
Piercing 19, Electricity 3, Fire 6

Haste
Attack 30
Piercing 20, Electricity 3, Fire 4

Iterative
Attack 9
Piercing 19, Electricity 5, Fire 4


Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22/ 18(25, 21), HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23/16(27/20), HP 61, CMD 23 
Tuesday August 7th, 2018 4:41:36 PM
Pressi readies an attack to rush over and pour a vial of holy water the second she sees the greater shadow emerge.

Harper moves closer to the wraiths attacking Murphy and lets out a huge roar, trying to attract their attention. She readies a move action 50 feet away if any of the wraiths chase her.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+20=23 ; d20+20=24 ;
Tuesday August 7th, 2018 6:51:23 PM
Talia, furious about this "Shadow Walk", looks about for that big shadow critter. [Perception: 23] If she detects it, all 5 magic missiles will strike it. If not, then they will strike the three remaining wraith critter.

With continued fury, Talia waves her hands and speaks the words to cast Magic Missile!

When finished she will again look to see what can be seen [Perception:24 ]

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Tuesday August 7th, 2018 9:06:27 PM
(OOC sorry for this last week. We got back on Sunday but because of all the craziness, I forgot all about this. I know Zaragosa passed out but other than that I am lost so I will wait for the DM to do what he needs to with my character.

Again, I am sorry for my absence.)

DM Ken: Shadow Showdown - LINK TO MAP 
Tuesday August 7th, 2018 11:02:14 PM

Bringing natures wrath from above, Murphy's flame strike destroys the final wraiths, who have no chance of escaping his vengeance.

Seconds later, the greater shadow emerges from the ground, hatred in its eyes. It lunges for Talia, but doesn't make it quite that far. Holy channels, magic missiles, holy water, and a smiting dagger quickly end the undeads burden.

Whatever pinned him to this place matters no longer, and with a moan lost on the wind, he is gone.

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

All clear, the Heroes of Humbles Ford still have a small bit of travel left on the plane of shadow. They have saved a lot of time, but the jaunt through the shadow realm has left several of them injured and weakened.



Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+20=24 ;
Tuesday August 7th, 2018 11:12:01 PM
Talia, reaches into her haversack pulling forth a lovely new, never used rod of cure light wounds. Asking, aloud, " How needs healing? I can offer up to 50 charges of cure light wounds!" says Talia excitedly as she is eager to both help and leave the shadow realm.

Not fully trusting this place, Talia will look around every 15 or so minutes to see what there might be lurking in the shadows. [Perception: 24]

CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP99of109) (Cayzle)  d4=2 ; d4=2 ; d4=2 ; d4=4 ;
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 1:08:38 AM
Bliss changes back to a halfling in order to help his friends.

He casts four lesser restorations to heal. He sees that Sir Succo has -6 str drain, -5 con drain. He casts two restorations to heal the Strength loss: 4 points back. He casts two to cure Constitution damage: 6 damage cured.

Then he casts Detect Magic and looks around.

Resource Tracker

Lvl 1: 5+1 (used Surrender Blood x2)
Lvl 2: 4+1 (used 4 Lesser Restores and domain CL10 Extended Barkskin)
Lvl 3: 4+1 (used Still Silent Ill Omen)
Lvl 4: 3+1 (used Threefold Aspect, Still Silent Command Undead)

Shared Shield of Faith CL13, used 3 rounds of 86
Meta Rod of Extend, used 2 of 3

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 75/86 AC 21 Touch 14 Flat 19 CMD 26 Hero Points 6  
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 1:51:00 AM
ooc: Bliss: Succotash's Con was Damage, not drain, and one casting of Restoration will cure all of the ability drain of one ability and all ability damage period. So one casting of Restoration will fix Succotash completely. So would it be possible for Hobie to get at least one casting of Restoration for his Strength Drain, and maybe even a second for his Dex Drain?


Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 75/86 AC 21 Touch 14 Flat 19 CMD 26 Hero Points 6  
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 1:55:36 AM
"Wow, that was horrible. Glad you clung so dearly to life Succotash, I was really worried about you there for a second."

He turns to Pressi, with a concerned look on his face. "Press, I've never heard of anyone being attacked in the Shadow Plane while using that spell, has anything like that ever happened to you before?"

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric 
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 5:21:11 AM
Succotash promptly thanks Bliss for the restoration of his strength and constitution, then quickly reaches over and casts lesser restoration on Hobie once for the dex drain, and another time for the strength drain, saying, “I have one more prepared, if anyone needs it”. “That was horrible, for a moment there, I thought I was on my way to meet Pantheon face to face, which I admit I kinda wouldn’t mind, but the idea of standing before Lord Gargul is a bit unnerving”.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric 
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 5:24:15 AM
Succotash cast his third and final lesser restoration on whoever asks for it first.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 8:19:46 AM
(if I understood the email correctly, I am back)

Zaragosa awakens from whatever made him pass out. He surveys the scene around him, guessing that a fight might have taken place. He was quite embarrassed to have missed the first fight he was in but his concern for the others made him speak up.

"What, what happened?" He asked as calmly as he could. He noted that everyone seemed rather concerned with Succotash, "Succotash, are you alright?"

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric 
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 10:05:27 AM
“I’m fine now”, Succotash answers, “However, during the fight, I got targeted for a far amount of constitution drain, and if it wasn’t for Pantheon’s gift of great Fortitude to me, I’m pretty sure it would have done me in”. “I saw you drop at the beginning of the fight, are you ok, do you need restoration, or healing?”

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22/ 18(25, 21), HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23/16(27/20), HP 61, CMD 23 
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 10:45:28 AM
OOC: I'm going to post in a bit but I wanted to respond to a couple of things.

Jack - We are just glad to have you back, physically and online. And don't ever feel like you have to apologize for putting real life ahead of this, especially where family and emergencies are concerned. Hope everything turned out okay.

Nick - restoration would be great in this instance but its not on the witch spell list and scrolls would have cost 1700 a piece. (Due to the insane material cost in case I use the scroll to remove negative levels.) So its lesser restores for now, and we'll have to make due until then. Sorry.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric  d4=4 ; d4=1 ; d4=4 ;
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 1:09:51 PM
Sorry, forgot to roll for the lesser restoration spells Hobie receives 4 str and 1 dex, with another 4 ability score healing available to whom ever claims it. Succotash is at full con and -2 str, but figures he can sleep it off, if others need it more.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17 (currently 16; 19 vs. Greater Shadow); HP 119/119, CMD 24; Fatigued (-2 penalty to Str and Dex)  d8+5=10 ; d8+5=9 ;
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 1:32:13 PM
Kezzem hits Bliss and Hobbie each with a cure light wounds.

Bliss: 10.
Hobbie: 9.

"Is anyone else regularly hurt? I have plenty of that kind of healing. Nothing to help out if you are just feeling enfeebled, sluggish, or drained though."

OOC: Please list both current AND max hit points in your headers so I can see who is in need with healing.

----

Kezzem

Abilities:
Lay on Hands 7/day (2 used)
Smite Evil 4/day (1 used)

Spells Prepared:
1st Level: Cure Light Wounds x3 (2 used)
2nd Level: Shield Other x2
3rd Level: Cure Moderate Wounds x2

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 69/85 Large (Huge) Air Elem. AC/FF/T 24/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 Dex 15/14 Str 11/12 Con 7/12  d20+27=36 ;
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 1:50:22 PM

Scanning the scene one more time [Perception: 36], just to ensure no more foul foes come forth, air elemental Murphy then descends to the ethereal earth. He gives Harper an airy petting. "Thank you for growling in my defense, girl."

"Talia, sure, I would appreciate a bop or two from your fine wand of cure light wounds, there." (down 15) Then Murphy adds, "By the way, lass, your magic missiles were awesomely helpful."

"Kezzem, thanks for coming to my side when I was pretty much surrounded.

"Hobie - bless you and your composite longbow.

"Jack - that turned out to be a fine defensive posture. I agree with Pressi - we're just glad you're all right, and with us. To answer your question as to what happened - Some of these wicked shadows and wights asked us, 'Are you the one who comes to settle the debt? Are you the one who comes to right the wrong?' I asked for clarification, and Pressi let them know that the one they were looked for was coming soon. They were having none of that, and attacked us. The greater shadow said, 'We shall collect our debt!'

"Well, they managed some significant hurt on us - draining strength, and nimbleness, and general health, along with plenty of chilly touches. Succotash in particular seemed to draw their attention. Glad he is stout enough to have resisted some of their ministrations. Bliss tangled with several of them. It's nice to have paladins and witches with us." He smiles. "I'll bet no one ever said that last sentence before."

"All told, however, I believe that all debts are resolved. They hurt us, trying to turn us into shadows. We killed them. The ledger is cleared.

"Though we still need to heal up from all the ability damage we suffered. Once we get to Emerald City, that is. I can cast lesser restoration, but did not memorize that for today. Am thinking we'll want to get there, spend a day in recovery as we seek for a guide, then, with two nights' sleep under our belts, go out in search of the wolpertingers."

If no one else takes Succotash up on his offer of lesser restoration, then Murphy does so to have his constitution restored. He remains in air elemental form for the balance of the trip, in order to compensate for the loss of dex and str.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22/ 18(25, 21), HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23/16(27/20), HP 61, CMD 23  d20+19=29 ;
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 2:03:38 PM
To JTT, Pressi makes a few choice remarks of his cowardice and help. Anything to avoid discussing how this happened because of her bad choices... starting with how he considered using a divination before shadow hopping but let herself get distracted first.

In response to Hobie's question, "I can honestly say that this has never happened to me in a shadow jump before." But of course it could happen. The primary purpose of the spell is to enter and walk around the shadow realm without need of a plane shift.

To Murphy, as he fills in JTT, "You know that was a joke, right? I don't think anyone is coming after us. Speaking of which..."

After Pressi casts whatever Lesser Restores and CLWs are needed, she searches the area with a focus on finding the bodies of these creatures (Perception 29) and attempts a "Speak with Dead" spell if she finds one. And of course she continues to seek out treasure.


Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 75/86 AC 21 Touch 14 Flat 19 CMD 26 Hero Points 6  
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 2:24:09 PM
Hobie could use a few lesser restos, he’s still down 6 dex. He can shoot his bow without penalty now that his strength is back, but he’s down 6 dex and 25 HP. I am posting from my phone and can’t update header but my HP is 61/86 right now.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 75/86 AC 21 Touch 14 Flat 19 CMD 26 Hero Points 6  
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 2:25:36 PM
Murphy— Bless my bow, but also bless Pressi’s Ghost Touch Spell, I’d have been half as useful without that spell.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22/ 18(25, 21), HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23/16(27/20), HP 61, CMD 23 
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 2:54:15 PM
Ok, so Pressi has 4 L2 slots left. She casts 2 LR on Hobie, 2 on Murphy.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 69/85 Large (Huge) Air Elem. AC/FF/T 24/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22  d20+27=28 ;
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 5:30:11 PM

"Yep, Hobie - bless Pressi!" Murphy agrees. "Thank you," he tells her. "I feel much better. And, yes, I thought it highly unlikely that the debt settler and wrong righter was coming in our wake. I'd really like to know what that was about. If you're able to speak with undead, ask them about that detail - what was the basis for the debt they mentioned, and what was the wrong they suffered? Not that they didn't deserve whatever it was."

If the bodies are about, and if there is treasure to be had, Murphy assists in the search... Perception 28.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 6:03:27 PM
(OOC , things did not work out)

Zaragosa listens to the others tell him what happened. He bowed his head low, "I am sorry colleges, I have never shadow walked before and it must have affected me greatly. I did not mean to be a coward and will work my every bone to make up for this. I do not need any healing, but in fact still, have many healing spells left if anyone needs them."

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+20=27 ;
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 9:07:54 PM
Talia recognizes that Mister Murphy would like a go or two of the wand of Cure Light Wounds. Talia asks, "Anyone else need some light healing?"

Looking around...[Perception: 27] Talia attempts to see what may be seen...

CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP99of109) (Cayzle) 
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 10:46:48 PM

"I'm not sure how the Lesser Restoration works against this undead stuff," says Bliss.

If he only needs to cast twice to help Sir Succo, then Bliss uses the other two on Mister Murphy.

DM Ken: Shadow Showdown - LINK TO MAP 
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 11:59:10 PM

Wraiths inflict drain, shadows inflict damage. Either way, it seems everyone has more than enough healing on demand to sort themselves out. With plenty of time left on her spell, Pressi checks for treasure.

When a wraith dies, or a shadow, it doesn't leave much of a corpse. A small, jelly like puddle of goo that quickly evaporates is usually all that remains of the encounter. This band though, seems to have some prior strong attachments to their life. Several possessions are left behind.

- Rings, armlets, and jewelry, as well as noble clothing, are in abundance. All the the jewelry bears the same makers mark. Appraise check for the value. Nothing glows with magical auras.

With a few hours of travel remaining, but many hours left in the spell, does Humbles Sword move on, or stay and investigate, speaking with the dead?

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 69/85 Large (Huge) Air Elem. AC/FF/T 24/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22  d20+8=17 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+8=18 ; d20+8=24 ;
Thursday August 9th, 2018 3:30:32 AM

"Ah, maybe we don't need to wait until the city before the drains are resolved in our favor," Murphy ventures. "How are we doing?" [With Succotash's help, then Pressi's, maybe Bliss might help another person? Not certain myself how all of it adds up.]

"What do you say, Pressi, about taking a few moments to chat with these shades?" Murphy asks. "I'd love to find out what their complaint and appeal is all about. And perhaps we can discover what noble house they derive from."

"But, just before we do so, would it be wiser to stash their goodies, or leave it be until after conversing with them?" he asks the group in general. He is fine either way as regards disposition of the goods, but he does note the maker's mark, and sketches it into the current page of his journal.

His first sketch is passable, but he spends time looking at several exemplars, then renders a much better rendition of the mark on his second attempt. He lists each item of jewelry which bears the mark. He is not so proficient at estimating the value, but figures it's got to be more than the average item of clothing. Nobility and all. As he waits for the speak with dead (if that is to happen), he draws two of the more interesting items of jewelry (18, and 24 on the sketches).

As Talia has volunteered to use the wand, but has not yet done so, and Zaragosa has some spells available, Murphy says, "Sure, Jack, a cure would be welcome." [down 16 hp atm] "And, Jack, you're no coward, as far as I can tell. With all we've been doing of late, and that we decided to wait until moonlight to get going, instead of using the barn, I think it was just taxing."

"Talia, if we have spells available, let's use those, and use the wand as needed after then, if that make sense."

[OOC: J-P - You need to actually roll the curative power of the wand so we know how many hp are granted. Saying you'll do it doesn't count unless you actually make the rolls :-) ]

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric  d20=20 ;
Thursday August 9th, 2018 5:32:35 AM
(Rolled a natural 20 on appraise)
Succotash takes a moment to check out the jewelry, but isn’t too keen on the whole talk to the dead thing, but at the same time, he’s not going to argue with Murphy and Pressi about the issue, instead he says, “I don’t know about you all, but I’d rather not spend any more time than necessary in this gods forsaken place”.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+20=24 ; d20+20=29 ; d20+3=22 ;
Thursday August 9th, 2018 6:35:02 AM
Healing

Talia, explains to Mister Murphy, with so much healing around, I didn't want to use the wand, unless it was needed, nodding towards Mister Murphy. "So, does anyone still need a healing spell as I do not have magic healing beyond my healer's kit. I'm all so new to journeying with a group. It's usually just Rayya and I on the open road." states Talia.

Treasure | What's next?

"Mister Murphy, I think, has a great idea regarding the remains. Adding all that stuff to his journal for latter investigation was a brilliant idea!" explains Talia. "I am vexed as to what might cause the undead to carry a burden with them into the afterlife, and what made them into what they became?" wonders aloud to the group.

Because Talia is undersure if the items were cursed and that's the reasons why they became those things...she waves her hands and mumbles incoherently then casts Prestidigitation on all the items in order to cleans them of dust and soot, and even perhaps that jelly stuff, then slowly rotate them items so Mister Murphy can get a better look at them. She even tries to appraise them, but is not so sure he had any better insight than Mister Murphy does. [Appraise: 22]

Talia will also grab out her ink and an ink pen to sketch the items quickly onto a sheet of paper, thinking, "I'll have to get a journal when next in a town! That's so much better than loose paper in a map case!"

Using her knowledge of the arcane as well as her perception, Talia will peruse over the items left behind to discover if she recognizes any of the symbols or marks.[Knowledge: Arcana: 24 | Perception:29 ]

Continued Journey

"Anyone have an idea of how much further we need to travel?"

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Thursday August 9th, 2018 8:51:36 AM
Zaragosa will offer one last time any healing if needed though he knows there is enough of that magic already going around. He will then let them take any loot (since he didn't do anything) and wait to continue the journey.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric 
Thursday August 9th, 2018 10:12:01 AM
“Anyone have the ability to check for curses, I can remove them from people with a mercy, but can’t detect them, anyway the reason I’m asking, is because I would like to grab the loot and get going unless someone has any objections”. “I would grab them myself, but depending on the curse, if there’s a curse, I may not be able to use my Paladin powers, and then I’d be stuck with curse”.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 82/85 Large (Huge) Air Elem. AC/FF/T 24/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22  d8=6 ;
Thursday August 9th, 2018 10:35:52 AM

"Well, I don't know whether speak with dead works with undead - or with puddles of jelly. If not, then the point is moot. If so, it'd at least be nice to know. It takes, what, about 10 minutes? Not enough to slow us up unduly, Succotash. Pressi?" He asks with an eyebrow raised, hoping she will fill them in as to whether the spell may work, or not.

Regarding those things left behind by their vanquished foes, Murphy says, "I don't mind touching them, or gathering them up, but I don't have room to store them. No bag of holding myself." If someone else offers to let him place the items within, he will stow them there.

Since no one is actually rolling for cures, I'll roll for a CLW from Jack - for 13 hit points? (d6+5)

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle)  d8+5=7 ;
Thursday August 9th, 2018 11:24:32 AM

Bliss turns off his Shield of Faith, embarrassed that he forgot to do so and used up a couple extra rounds for nothing. Maybe no one noticed ...

After being cured by Kezzem, Bliss bows to the paladin and thanks him.

Bliss laughs as Murphy reaches out for JTT's hand and tries to roll a cure out of him.

"Oh you silly!" he says. "You can't do that! Here, let me, like this!" Bliss casts a cure light wounds spell on Murphy, returning 7 hp to the eager druid.

Bliss is worried about the dead haunting the treasure, but he is reassured by Sir Succotash. "I say we take them. What's the worst that can happen? We fight them again? Still, might be nice to soak them in holy water or something."

He is fine with someone casting Speak with Dead before we go on our way. But who? "That's not a thing witches can do."

Casting done and ready for danger, Bliss ends by turning back into a kitty.

Resource Tracker

Lvl 1: 5+1 (used Surrender Blood x2, CLW)
Lvl 2: 4+1 (used 4 Lesser Restores and domain CL10 Extended Barkskin)
Lvl 3: 4+1 (used Still Silent Ill Omen)
Lvl 4: 3+1 (used Threefold Aspect, Still Silent Command Undead)

Shared Shield of Faith CL13, used 5 rounds of 86
Meta Rod of Extend, used 2 of 3

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22/ 18(25, 21), HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23/16(27/20), HP 61, CMD 23 
Thursday August 9th, 2018 11:43:50 AM
"Against a pile of goo, I don't think it would work," Pressi replied. "I was hoping to find the original body, the human or whatever shell before something killed him and made him a greater shadow, but we seem to be out of luck. Oh, and Bliss means its something HE can't do." (Speak with Dead - L3 Knowledge domain spell).

"At any rate, we have the makers mark. We can start from there and move on, either by asking around town or by other divinations. So I am fine moving on instead, and I would be glad to grab them. I'm already cursed with voices from the dead, though he's been quiet for a while now. Just to be clear, though, we aren't selling anything until we figure out what's going on. Oh, and you will get your share JTT. We're a team and we all had to cover for each other in the past."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 76/85 Large (Huge) Air Elem. AC/FF/T 24/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22  d20+27=37 ;
Thursday August 9th, 2018 4:22:03 PM

Appreciating her help as he took a look over some of the jewelry, he adds, "Great idea, Talia. It's much better to have more than one viewpoint in writing out historical records."

"It's settled, then, partly in Succotash's favor - neither clothing curses, nor undead discussions," he winks as well as any air elemental can wink. "Thanks, Pressi, for taking the garb and jewelry.

"And, thank you, Bliss!" he says as he helps him feel a little better.

Murphy takes a moment to fly upwards to 120', looks around. If the area looks reasonably clear [Perception: 37], he swoops down. "All clear. Shall we continue?" Murphy begins to move ahead slowly, watching for the others to start heading that way, and asking Pressi, "This is the right direction, yes?"

As the group gets moving, the druid flies about 30' above the group.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 75/86 AC 21 Touch 14 Flat 19 CMD 26 Hero Points 6   d8=8 ; d8=2 ; d8=7 ; d8=3 ; d20+8=22 ;
Thursday August 9th, 2018 4:25:37 PM
Hobie is super thankful for the restoration of his abilities, he gives his wand to one of the healers in order to top off his HP damage.

Hobie isn't super great at knowing what things are worth, so he doesn't try to appraise the items, but he does think real hard (Knowledge Local 22) about whether he might recognize that makers mark.

"Perhaps it might be a good idea guys to head back to the source of all this gear. It seems to have all been made by the same maker, maybe he knows something"

=========
Boots of Speed Used 2/10
=========
Spells Prepared:

Arcane Object Free Spell

Level 0: Read Magic, Detect Magic, Light, Mage Hand

Level 1: Grease, True Strike, Feather Fall, Enlarge Person, Shield

Level 2: Bull's Strength, Invisibility, Mirror Image, Cat's Grace

Level 3: Fly, Flame Arrow, Rage

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric  d6=2 ; d6=5 ; d6=6 ; d6=4 ; d6=4 ;
Thursday August 9th, 2018 5:06:16 PM
“Gosh Pressi, I didn’t know you were cursed, if you want, I can fix that right now!”, Succotash offers. If Pressi excepts the offer, the Mercy will be accompanied by 21 healing if she still needs any.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)   d8+5=12 ;
Thursday August 9th, 2018 6:28:12 PM
Zaragosa was about the cast CLW on murphey but sees Bliss do it for him, concered and a little too willing to prove himself. He also casts it curing Murphey curing for 12 points

Spells
lvl1 4/5
lvl2 5/5
lvl3 3/3

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 76/85 Large (Huge) Air Elem. AC/FF/T 24/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Thursday August 9th, 2018 7:47:06 PM
"Thank you, Jack. I feel terrific now."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Large (Huge) Air Elem. AC/FF/T 24/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Thursday August 9th, 2018 7:48:01 PM
"Thank you, Jack. I feel terrific now."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Large (Huge) Air Elem. AC/FF/T 24/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22  d8+5=12 ;
Thursday August 9th, 2018 8:05:17 PM

Murphy cast CLW on Hobie, restoring 12 hp. We should all be full up on hp now.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17 (currently 16; 19 vs. Greater Shadow); HP 119/119, CMD 24; Fatigued (-2 penalty to Str and Dex) 
Friday August 10th, 2018 12:23:40 AM
"We should move on before more of those things come after us," suggests Kezzem. "Not that I'm scared, mind you. Paladin's don't get scared--we're immune you might say. Unfortunately, we aren't also immune to stupidity."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 21 Touch 14 Flat 19 CMD 26 Hero Points 6  
Friday August 10th, 2018 2:14:18 AM
Updating HP

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 24 Touch 17 Flat 19 CMD 26 Hero Points 6  
Friday August 10th, 2018 2:14:58 AM
Updating AC

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 13 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Friday August 10th, 2018 2:18:05 AM
Correctly updating AC this time

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Friday August 10th, 2018 2:18:55 AM
Dang it, This time it's correct. I have a cold, cut me some slack.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric 
Friday August 10th, 2018 5:21:44 AM
“I agree with Kezzem”, Succotash remarks, “I know I’m in danger of sounding like a broken record, whatever that means, I mean, when my cousin Freidric broke the record for eating the most pies in one minute, I didn’t hear anything, but let’s get out of here”.

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle) 
Friday August 10th, 2018 9:16:50 AM

Bliss is in favor of leaving and demonstrates his opinion by sitting still, swishing his tail, and staring at shadows.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22/ 18(25, 21), HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23/16(27/20), HP 61, CMD 23 
Friday August 10th, 2018 11:36:20 AM
"All right, all right. We can get going if you are going to be that much of a baby about it."

Turning to Talia, she points at all the scaredy cats. "The brave and less emotional sex, am I right?"

When the circle reforms, Pressi whisks the group out of the area.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Large (Huge) Air Elem. AC/FF/T 24/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Friday August 10th, 2018 3:39:30 PM
[OOC: Melvin, now that we all are on the plane, we are not required to keep touching each other - witness the combat. The spells says, "Any creatures touched by you when shadow walk is cast also make the transition to the borders of the Plane of Shadow. They may opt to follow you, wander off through the plane, or stumble back into the Material Plane."]

Murphy rejoins the circle as Pressi requests, but mentions they should be able to continue travelling together without constantly having to touch each other - he thinks.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22/ 18(25, 21), HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23/16(27/20), HP 61, CMD 23 
Friday August 10th, 2018 4:17:40 PM
[OOC: I wasn't clear whether we were still in the plane of shadow or had been bounced out into the material plane. Point is that we are off either way - and while its technically true that we don't need the circle for the former, I prefer the flavor of starting in a circle.]

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)  
Friday August 10th, 2018 5:43:17 PM
Zaragosa noticed that Murphey had the same spell and probably could have used it on himself. Zaragosa thought highly of the gesture. Despite being useless in the fight, he started to feel like a part of the group.

Zaragosa also wishes to get going but keeps his opinion to himself since he is both new and did not do much in the last battle

Spells
lvl1 4/5
lvl2 5/5
lvl3 3/3

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Large (Huge) Air Elem. AC/FF/T 24/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Friday August 10th, 2018 6:37:30 PM

[OOC: All right, good flavor!]

Murphy is 16' long x 4' wide (and weighs 8 lbs) - so there's a lot of ephemeral air elemental stuff to grab on to for those nearby. He returns his wispy hand to Pressi's shoulder, and the other to Skipper's collar.

"Circle Up, All Aboard!" he calls. And moves with the others as Pressi resumes their journey toward Emerald City.

DM Ken: Shadow Showdown - LINK TO MAP  d100=40
Friday August 10th, 2018 6:45:40 PM

(Sorry! I posted, sent an email, and went to bed, only to get post unsuccessful and email not delivered notices! My internet is pretty bad in Oklahoma)

A speak with dead spell is in fact possible, but the party seems to be in favor of moving on and letting the dead rest.

The jelly like ooze dries up as the travelers move on, and Pressi makes her Circle of Exit without trouble.

As they step from the realm of shadow, they feel themselves pulled strongly to the north, and are deposited safely in a forest of strong, healthy looking oaks.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Large (Huge) Air Elem. AC/FF/T 24/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Friday August 10th, 2018 7:37:25 PM

Murphy casts know direction, identifying true north. He indicates that to the group. "Oaks. I love oaks." He goes up to touch the bark of one, and says, "Hello, noble oak."

About what time is it?

Murphy flies up a ways above the trees, checking to see if he can discern a city in the distance, or if it seems to be forest all about. Then he particularly focuses towards the north, as he had sensed an attraction in that direction. He then descends and reports what he saw.

If it is still night time, and if he did not discern that they are reasonably near a city, Murphy says, "It's night. We've been in a fight. Rest might be in order - unless several feel strongly we should move on now. If not, let's take a quick look around this area, and secure a site to camp, get a good night's sleep, then set out again after we're rested up, with new spells. Other ideas?"

Should no city be in sight, and the party agree to the camping idea, Murphy sets to work, partnering with at least one other to scope out a good spot to camp, then helping to set it up. He offers to take last watch.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+20=25 ;
Friday August 10th, 2018 9:02:16 PM
Not wanting to caught in difficult terrain again, Talia cast Overland Flight on herself. She then does her best to catch up to the group while being ever so mindful of that around them...[Skill: Perception: 25]

[OOC: I have a cold...sorry this is so late.]

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (spells left lvl1 4/5 lvl2 5/5 lvl3 3/3) 
Friday August 10th, 2018 9:17:56 PM
(OOC first off, DM , I LOVE the image you set for Zaragosa. second, I know that Zaragosa missing the fight was not his or my fault since I had to deal with family tragedy, but the character Zaragosa still feels guilt over it and does blame himself.)

Zaragosa sets through to get to the forest. He knew he was pretty useless when it came to nature but the others seemed to have that settled. Wanting to make up for his past screw-ups, he set out to make himself useful but asking detect magic on the area.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17 (currently 16; 19 vs. Greater Shadow); HP 119/119, CMD 24; Fatigued (-2 penalty to Str and Dex) 
Saturday August 11th, 2018 12:45:36 AM
"Well that was...draining," says Kezzem. "I feel like I could sleep for a day or two."

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric 
Saturday August 11th, 2018 5:28:14 AM
Upon arrival in the woods, the first thing Succotash does is summon Miss Piggy to his side saying, “Missed ya girl, glad to see me?”. Then noticing that Zaragosa, still seems a little off, and assuming he’s still feeling guilty for passing out, Succotash walks over to his friend, puts his hand on his shoulder, and says, “Don’t worry about it, the way things are going, you’ll have plenty of chances to redeem yourself, not that you need to, sometimes things just happen”. “In a way, I kinda understand how you feel, remember when I shared the story of how I got this scar?” he says, while pointing to the scar on his left cheek, “Even though I had no control over the situation, that day, and even though we were ultimately victorious, I personally felt responsible for the loss of so many good men”. “The guilt consumed me for years”, lamented the normally happy go lucky Paladin, “It even kept me from enjoying the company of true brothers in arms, and the joy that I only recently discovered was possible, of being part of a group”. “So as I was saying, I understand how you feel, but don’t let it bring you down, this group of heroes, and I don’t use that term loosely, has already done everything they can to try to put your heart at ease, so instead of dwelling in what is now the past, I ask that you consider looking towards the future, and I beg you not to let this eat you up, like I did, it’s just not worth it”.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric 
Saturday August 11th, 2018 5:40:34 AM
If the report is that there is no city nearby, Succotash will help set up camp, and pitch his tent for himself and Miss Piggy, and then goes out and gathers enough dead firewood from the forest floor to last the night, with extra for preparing breakfast in the morning, being carful to avoid any wood still attached to a tree, then brings the wood back to camp, and gets a fire going.

If there is a settlement nearby, he will encourage his friends to make haste, so they can get the rest they so desperately need.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6   d20+18=24 ; d20+20=27 ; d6+11=15 ; d6=1 ;
Saturday August 11th, 2018 9:48:22 AM
Hobie will head out with Succotash and Miss Piggy to collect wood. While they walk around he will keep his eyes peeled for any animals they might find in the forest. Any Wolpertingers, to bring back, or any deer or other animals that Hobie could bring back for dinner.

Perception roll 24 to notice an animal

Attack Roll 27 to fire an arrow at any dinner animal.
He will use his Seeker Arrow ability, which allows the arrow to bend around any trees or obstacles between Hobie and the animal.

Damage = 15 Piercing, 1 Electric

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle)  d20+27=30 ; d20+22=38 ;
Saturday August 11th, 2018 12:19:05 PM
Bliss scouts around the site making sure there are no dangers or interesting things nearby.

If Hobie shoots at him, his AC32 should keep him safe?

Stealth 30, Perception 38.



Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Saturday August 11th, 2018 6:10:23 PM
Hobie knows that Bliss is not dinner

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Saturday August 11th, 2018 10:35:05 PM

If we remain to camp (that is, it does not seem the city is nearby, or easily reachable in a short amount of time):

"It's great to have someone such as you with us, Succotash. You and Miss Piggy have spent a good deal of time traveling by yourself, and know how to get on." Murphy drops his air elemental form, going back to halfling.

"Thanks for building the fire. Say, here in the Culverwood, sometimes the wood itself can get a bit antsy about fires. But, have you heard of the ranger's fire hole before? Doesn't seem so much to raise the ire of the Culverwood - and it's safer, and lets out less light to the surrounding area - harder for opponents - or anyone - to spot from much more'n fifteen feet away. Even keeps most of the smoke from kicking up. Heats up a cooking pot faster, to boot.

"If you're interested, we can build it together. Something our group has done from way back. The gist is, you dig two pits - one for the fuel, and one for a chimney downdraft, and join them at the bottom."

If the paladin is open to the idea, Murphy gets out a shovel and a spade, and gets to work with the spade, for the draft chimney, handing Succotash the shovel for the wood section. If anyone else wants to join in, he's fine with that. If Succotash is not interested, then Murphy backs off.

[If anyone wants to see what Murphy is talking about - what he calls the 'ranger's fire hole' is described in our world as a 'Dakota fire pit' - you can take a look here #1: dakota fire pit diagram (closest to Murphy's design)
Here #2: dakota fire pit construction video
Here #3: dakota hole description and diagram (scroll down about 1 screen for explanation, then see illustration on top of the following page).
Here #4: dakota camp fire video]

Once either the above ground fire is built, or the ranger's fire is built, Murphy builds a tripod for the former, and hangs a pot above it, or places the cooking pot above the sunken fire pit, more directly on some transverse, wetter, less dry sticks (which he monitors and changes out as needed), and gets some water boiling. Create water, the appropriate amount, should do the job.

"Kezzem, rest, buddy. How are the rest of us faring?" He looks up at Pressi, knowing that some tension still remains following the mid afternoon wolpertinger reconnaissance.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric 
Sunday August 12th, 2018 5:48:18 AM
“I have no arguments with the ranger’s fire pit, if you think it’s best Murphy, it’s actually a system I’ve used in the past”, Succotash concedes. “Growing up on the border of the Culverwood, you learn to respect the forest, which is why I made a point to only gather dead wood from the forest floor, so if you think this system would be less intrusive, let’s do it”, he adds as he grabs the offered shovel, “though with the subdued light, it’s going to make keeping watch more difficult”.”Miss Talia, would you mind if the people on watch borrowed your Sunrod, just in case?”

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (spells left lvl1 4/5 lvl2 5/5 lvl3 3/3) 
Sunday August 12th, 2018 12:33:54 PM
Zaragosa gives a weary smile at Succotsha "Thank you most noble Paladin" He said, "Or, if I could so, most noble friend. Your words are very kind. I am proud to be in your number, and shall prove myself." He takes a look around while they get a fire going. "If we are to camp, Miss Piggy still has my bag of holding. My bedroll is in there. I have this nifty Ring of Sustenance so I only require a couple hours of sleep.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26-touch 13/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electric 
Monday August 13th, 2018 5:14:45 AM
Succotash removes Zaragosa’s Bag of Holding from Miss Piggy’s saddle horn, and hands it to him saying, if you are still in need of Piggy’s assistance in the morning, just go ahead and hang your satchel on her saddle horn, and please feel free to call me friend, as to that, I believe I can safely say that you should feel free to call all us Sword’s friends “.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22/ 18(25, 21), HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23/16(27/20), HP 61, CMD 23  d4=4 ;
Monday August 13th, 2018 11:21:31 AM
As much of the activity continues around her, Pressi is mostly quiet. She does, however, burn her other L5 spell before returning to normal form. With the spell of prying eyes, she gets a view of the immediate area. As 13 eyes spin around her, she sends each in a different direction, telling it to return if it spots anything other than ordinary animals or vegetation. If any return (any eye that doesn't see anything disappears at the mile mark), she reviews what they spotted.

With nothing else to do but wait, she sits in silence, mostly ignoring JTT and Kezzem unless they approach her. (Most others seem to be scouting, gathering wood, etc.) Occasionally, she pets Harper, who is dozing at her feet. She helps prepare food brought back, based on the current time. She also begins to cast divinations (10 minute casting time) and prepares to heal the incoming damage. (Last time, she was able to ask as many questions as her constitution could bear.)

In response to Murphy's question, she tells him that she is fine, just tired along with everyone else. With tensions calmer, she isn't planning to revisit any fights. She is going to need to take the first or last shift after a day like today, though.

DM Ken: Easy Camping  d100=54 ;
Monday August 13th, 2018 3:13:50 PM

The campsite is confirmed secure by multipe woodsmen, prying eyes, Harpers nose, and other fine adventurers. A few of the Sword deal with personal dealings, share feelings, or brood quietly in reflection on the days events.

Though this trip through the shadow realm was dangerous, not all of them are such forays or frought with danger. Misfortune struck this time, next time might not have any at all.

Murphy flies up and north, but in the dark of night and the expanse of trees, he does not identify any cities. Perhaps morning light will yield more information.

Pressi remembers her last set of divinations, but finds these are not nearly so dangerous. Before, the Sarr was interfering with magic, especially divination. This time, the process is both simple and calming, and she finds herself feeling the logical and expectant gaze of the Hags upon her.

The spell functions as it normally should, and Pressi is certain she is going to receive honest answers to her questions.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (spells left lvl1 4/5 lvl2 5/5 lvl3 3/3)  d20+7=18 ;
Monday August 13th, 2018 9:10:00 PM
(Posting to post for the day)

Zaragosa thanks Succotsha then sets up his bedroll and other items. He reiterates that he only requires two hours of sleep but he also lets the party know that he isn't the best at spotting things

(if the perception check is needed for lookout, I rolled for a total of 18)

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+20=33 ;
Monday August 13th, 2018 9:38:39 PM
"Mister Murphy that's an awesome idea...this Dakota Fire Pit!" says Talia all excited! Turning around to face Mister Slenderstick, while reaching into her haversack, she says, "Sure, you can hold onto the Sunrod just in case, a have a couple of others as well, Mister Slenderstick" handling Mister Slenderstick a sunrod.

How has what watch? I need two (2) hours of sleep, by the way just in case I forgot to mention that.

Before taking up a meditative rest spot, Talia will look around, just to set her mind at ease.

[Skill: Perception: 33]

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22  d20+27=28 ;
Monday August 13th, 2018 10:22:38 PM

Roughing it easy...
Murphy delights both in Succotash's acquaintance with, and Talia's pleasure in the ranger pit set up.

"I have two everburning torches," Murphy informs Succotash as they discuss lighting. Just then Talia offers a few sunrods. "Those can be pretty handy - they last about two hours, each, about the length of a nightwatch rotation. One tactice with them is to light it as needed, and toss it a distance to get farther-off lighting. You hear a bunch of noise from one direction? Light up the area.

"If the person on watch requires steady illumination, then he or she can use one of the everburning torches - hold it, lay it on a tree branch, or the like, and have another at the ready." He pulls once from his haversack, and the other he draws out of Skipper's left saddlebag. "As I am on last watch, I'll put them away in the morning." He hands off to whomever will be on first watch. In the future, take it as given that Murphy shares these items each time we begin a period of watches. Without going into too much detail, he follows the custom taught him by others of having for a party a 2' pit dug a short distance from the camp for depositing the end process of digestion, hoping that Bliss doesn't start up another conversation about poop.

Around the campfire, Murphy takes time to brush down Skipper's coat, and make sure his dog is fed - and ups his acquaintance with the other animals in the group. He asks Pressi, "You want to try sleeping up in a tree? I saw a couple of nice spots in that oak over there. Nestle in the branches, set up a bit of canvas and roping to keep from spilling out in the middle of the night, as well as to lower oneself to the ground in a jiffy, and there you go!"

"So, both Talia and Zaragosa get by on two hours shut-eye? Sweet. If one of you can take second watch, and one third watch, then that will give those of us who need a longer rest the chance to take early or last watch. As I said, I dibs last watch, mostly."

"How about this for watches?" Murphy asks:
1st watch - Bliss
2nd watch - Zaragosa
3rd watch - Talia
4th watch - Murphy
"Our paladins and Pressi and Hobie can get a long rest. Another night we can switch things up a bit - but I'm almost always happy with 4th watch." For whatever reason, Murphy's perception (28, nat 1) during his watch is not bad, but it's pretty poor compared to his average perception. Lots to think about, perhaps. Along with his custom of setting things up for morning breakfast during the latter portion of 4th watch, that all can enjoy a warm meal to start the day - taking advantage of what it was that Hobie was able to bag for supper/breakfast.

He reminds all that his mother just before noon gave each a goodberry, and from his own supply gives everyone two more of the magical filling/healing items. "If someone is down, and there's no time for a big healing, popping one of these into their mouth can help them recover a wee bit. So, now, each of you has 3 of 'em." He adds, "One time my brother told me he knew he was about to get hit by a goblin, so popped one in his mouth without chewing it, then bit down on it after he got hit. He bit the berry, that is, not the goblin." [So, gang, each, please, add 3 goodberries to your equipment - maybe in a pouch, or wherever.]

In the morning, he prays with eyes wide open during watch, and receives new spells after folks arise.

IMPORTANT: Is anyone still down in ability points from the shadow/wight encounter?

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle)  d20+25=30 ;
Tuesday August 14th, 2018 12:19:51 AM
Bliss is happy to take first watch and is careful to look around.

Perception 30

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC 26/ touch 13/ flat 25 CMD 26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC 27/ touch 11/ flat 26 CMD 23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold,  d4=4 ;
Tuesday August 14th, 2018 6:08:50 AM
Lay of Hands 9/10
smite evil 4/4
boots of speed 10/10

1st level spells:
lesser regeneration 2/3
2nd level spells:
remove paralysis 2/2
3rd level spells:
Heal mount 1/1
cure moderate wounds 1/1

Succotash thanks Murphy for the thoughtfulness involving the everburning torches, he also thanks Talia for the use of the sunrods, then he draws Twinklesting, allowing her blue torch like glow to be added to the illumination problem, insisting that the sword be kept near at hand just in case he needed it in a jiffy, "Also, something Miraculous happened to Piggy after we fought the Sarr, she took on some celestial aspects, one of which is darkvision, out to 60 ft, I believe". "Hey Kezzem, did Rumpus gain darkvision as well?"

As is his custom while bivouacking, Succotash sleeps in his armor, then uses a mercy to remove the fatigue in the morning, after spending a hour in prayer and meditation, he prepares his spells, and promptly casts lesser restoration on himself to remove the lingering -2 strength. He than thanks Murphy for breakfast as well as the goodberries.



Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Tuesday August 14th, 2018 6:12:42 AM
header adjustment

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Tuesday August 14th, 2018 11:34:21 AM
The more formal and comforting setting makes Pressi nervous as she finishes her offering (25 gp spent) and her general prayers. She still wants to avoid the embarrassment of asking them a stupid question, like "settle the boat-shadow walk argument for us" or "am I silly for not wanting to get married?" or other questions.

She starts with the basic questions that could be expected.
1) Can I find the flying jackelopes (womp evers) closer than the position disclosed?
2) Will the culverwood itself effect my shadow walk?
3) What were the shadows we encountered before they died?
4) What debt did they need repayed?

But she had to ask the question. The question that nagged her from the moment this mission began. She wanted so to ask whether the mayor's new bride was who she claimed to be, if she was a threat, and slowly formed the question in her mind.

5) If the mayor gets married to this stranger... Will he be happy? Will the marriage be good for him?

Pressi knew there would be no do overs for that question.

(If there are any other requests for questions, post them now.)

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

Pressi finishes her divinations and finishes setting up the campfire and taking care of Harper. As to Murphy's question, she doesn't really think she needs to set up in a tree. (She does have a few spells left, so she isn't completely defenseless.) Honestly, she just wants to finish up, say goodnight to everyone, and get to bed.



Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17 (currently 16; 19 vs. Greater Shadow); HP 119/119, CMD 24; Fatigued (-2 penalty to Str and Dex) 
Tuesday August 14th, 2018 12:43:08 PM
"Well I'll be sure to prepare some restoration spells this time!" says Kezzem. "If you still feeling drained, let me know and I'll...restore you?"

Abilities:
Lay on Hands 7/day
Smite Evil 4/day

Spells Prepared:
1st Level: Lesser Restoration x3
2nd Level: Shield Other x2
3rd Level: Cure Moderate Wounds x2

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (spells left lvl1 4/5 lvl2 5/5 lvl3 3/3) 
Tuesday August 14th, 2018 12:49:24 PM
Zaragosa agrees to take the second watch. He would sleep without his armour for the first watch then wake up for the second. He would stay awake from then on with his amour on, trying to be ready for anything. He would be open to start a conversation any time other than his turn to keep watch. He stays away from people as they pray out of respect for his teammates.

When Succotash is awake, he would give back his second bag of holding so Miss Piggy can carry it.

Any free time is spent practising tying and untying knots.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Tuesday August 14th, 2018 2:26:29 PM
Hobie takes the full night of rest that's offered to him and wakes up the morning, and prepares his spells for the day.

Alright, any of y'all wise folks know where we can find some Wolpertingers?

=========
Boots of Speed Used 0/10
=========
Spells Prepared:

Arcane Object Free Spell

Level 0: Read Magic, Detect Magic, Light, Mage Hand

Level 1: Grease, True Strike, Feather Fall, Enlarge Person, Shield

Level 2: Spider Climb, Invisibility, Mirror Image, Cat's Grace

Level 3: Fly, Flame Arrow, Rage


Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Tuesday August 14th, 2018 2:32:31 PM
ooc; Jon-Paul, have you decided on Talia's spells known yet? They aren't on your character sheet. I want to know if Talia knows Haste since you are a transmutation specialist. If you could cast haste on the party at the beginning of battles it would be a huge bonus to the party. I can prepare it and cast it, but if Talia were to cast it instead then that's an extra full round of arrows Hobie can fire. And that would be 5 arrows at 3d6+17 each, so potentially great damage.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Tuesday August 14th, 2018 3:10:08 PM

The druid suggest to Pressi that she add the questions, "Will Murphy ever stop being occasionally stubborn?" Also, "How long will people have troubles getting the name of our group right?"

After her divinations are complete, Murphy asks Pressi about what she was able to learn from her queries.

If in the evening, Pressi was able to discern there are wolpertingers in the area, and can tell approximately where, then Murphy suggests they head that general direction on the morrow. On foot if nearby. Using other means if more distant. If she is able to discern distance and direction, then he will hold off on using another divination spell. If such is vague, then he will cast commune with nature, seeking out the creatures of their quest. He also tries to discern where Emerald City (or any dwellings) might be relative to their position, if it within eleven miles of their position.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17 (currently 16; 19 vs. Greater Shadow); HP 119/119, CMD 24; Fatigued (-2 penalty to Str and Dex) 
Tuesday August 14th, 2018 7:56:22 PM
"Also, be sure to ask when or if we are updating to 2nd edition," says Kezzem. "I hear that's a thing now."

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+20=30 ; d3=1 ; d20+20=34 ; d20+20=38 ;
Tuesday August 14th, 2018 9:46:25 PM
[OOC: Sorry, Updated the hyperlink. Look for the tab that says Spell list -- don't have haste, have slow]

When it's time for Talia's watch, she will be very perceptive. [Skill: Perception: 30,34,38] While waiting, she will reach into her right pocket and remove 8 sling stones, cast "light" on each stone, and then will toss them
about 20 feet in each of the compass point direction from the center of the camp. Time 'til they extinguish (110 minutes) -- N,E,W,S, NE, NW, SW, SE in order to have a better sense of "what's" out there.

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle) 
Tuesday August 14th, 2018 10:04:25 PM

Bliss changes into a halfling long enough to laugh at Murphy and Kezzem's jokes.

Also, he likes the Light spells idea, but as he expects, when you cast one light spell, the prior one winks out. You can only have one light spell active at a time. Except maybe with a wand?

You can also have just one dancing lights active at the same time, too. Unless you make it permanent.

DM Ken: Easy Camping  d100=18 ; d100=65 ; d100=94 ; d100=95 ;
Tuesday August 14th, 2018 10:08:10 PM

The night watches go without incident. The most exciting thing is the answers to Pressi's divinations. she casts and fires off five divination spells, taking a good amount of her night. (Under normal circumstance, a divination can answer one question.)

As soon as she asks the first, she feels her psyche taken to a place outside of her body. Three crones stare at her as she makes her request.

1) Can I find the flying jackelopes (womp evers) closer than the position disclosed?

The crones answer is calm in tone, but scathing in content.

"Think girl. You are casting a divination to question a spell, that is in it's essence, a divination? The druids spells have given sound answers"

2) Will the culverwood itself effect my shadow walk?

The answer again is calm, but direct.

"No. The Culverwood did not effect your last spell, you had the misfortune of coming across some denizens of the realm of shadow."

3) What were the shadows we encountered before they died?

"Merchants and a noble. They were underpaid for goods crafted. Like fools, they agreed to meet those who cheated them to collect the rest of their pay. Instead, they were given their deaths."

Pressi's last two questions fail. Either the crones lost patience, or Pressi's concentration faltered. Either way, the spells are lost. (Pressi has a 70+caster level % chance of getting an answer. Her last two divination %'s failed. The Crones are not malicious or trying to deceive her, so she does not receive false answers. )



Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Wednesday August 15th, 2018 5:30:09 AM
“Hey Mr Zaragosa, By chance do you know the haste spell, I know Hobie does, but as our team cannon, wasting an opportunity to unload with his bow, to cast a spell, can literally be the difference between life and death”. “Personally I just picked up these stylish boots of speed, but Piggy, and let’s face it, the rest of the team, would really benefit from said spell”.

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle) 
Wednesday August 15th, 2018 8:20:57 AM

"I love that spell," says Bliss, switching from kitty to halfling and back just to say it. Then he purrs.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Wednesday August 15th, 2018 10:30:27 AM
OOC: I wanted to clarify question 2 since there seems to be some confusion. I understand that this is a non-random encounter that happens to work whether we use boats or shadows to travel, and thus won't normally happen (since the wold doesn't do random encounters).

The question is specific to the magic of traveling through the Culverwood itself. Specifically the magical, time and space twisting parts that we encountered at L6 and that make the area an immortal power in its own right. I wanted to make sure that we don't get lost due to strange interactions and wind up on some spaceship vs robo-dinosaur nonsense.

We now return to how Pressi completely misinterprets her divinations.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Wednesday August 15th, 2018 10:39:46 AM
OOC: Some bookkeeping. Pressi has 3+1 spells, divination is a BW spell or domain spell. She cast 1 L4 spell for the day (threefold aspect) so she only has three questions left.

I leave it up to the DM as to whether she gets the first three questions or if I get my pick (1, 3 and 5 not answered) but knowledge-wise or offering wise it doesn't much matter. And I'll endeavor to stick to one question per spell going forward.

DM Ken: Easy Camping 
Wednesday August 15th, 2018 11:10:13 AM
(It's fine. Pressi learns the answers that were posted. The last two questions would have failed on the d% roll, not dm fiat.

Also, no, the Culverwood will not mess with your Shadow Walk spell, because it is aware that you casting that spell means you are leaving, in a sense.)

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Wednesday August 15th, 2018 12:27:40 PM
Well, what did you learn Press? How do we find these wolpertingers? What did you learn about those ghost things? Did they attack us because of these two and their stink of holiness? he points and grins at the Paladins with the last comment

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Wednesday August 15th, 2018 12:31:17 PM
As in yesterday's post, "If such [Pressi's wolpertinger info request response] is vague, then he will cast commune with nature, seeking out the creatures of their quest. He also tries to discern where Emerald City (or any dwellings) might be relative to their position, if it within eleven miles of their position."

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17 (currently 16; 19 vs. Greater Shadow); HP 119/119, CMD 24; Fatigued (-2 penalty to Str and Dex) 
Wednesday August 15th, 2018 12:32:49 PM
"And what about Murphey's question about whether he'll stop being so stubborn?" asks Kezzem. "That would be really useful information to have."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Wednesday August 15th, 2018 4:24:01 PM
Pressi wrestled with some strong feelings as she slept fitfully. She had responded to her god's increasing exasperation with her trademark bluster but she could not handle the strong emotions from within.

She decided, however, that perhaps her doubts about Murphy (in many ways) were clearly to be ignored. Did not her own gods just bless his plans, tell her to stop trying to get around his skills? (Okay maybe its a stretch from "The druids spells have given sound answers" but it's the stretch Pressi has clearly searched for.)

It is in this frame of mind that she snuck behind Murphy at the end of her sleep, a burst of make-up affection from the inwardness of the day before.

In answer to their questions, Pressi tells them that the plan is to rely more on Murphy's spells to find the creatures. (In answer to Kezzem's question, he's probably not going to stop soon after this.) Commune with nature appears to be a good place to start, and Pressi can raise a few other divinations to supplement.

Pressi more accurately portrays the answers about who the spirits were, raising her opinion that justice does need to be served.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (full spells) 
Wednesday August 15th, 2018 5:35:59 PM
Zaragosa answers Succotash question "Yes sir indeed, The greatest and most favoured of my spells" He answers then continues with a grin "I even have these magic boots that give it to me for a full minute every day"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Wednesday August 15th, 2018 7:24:07 PM
“Just so we are clear, the plan hasn’t changed. We still need to know where the city is, except our need to visit it has a couple more reasons. We still need a mix of shadow jaunts and short trips to find the creatures. And we still need whatever scouting or trapping or divination tricks we have.”

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Wednesday August 15th, 2018 8:32:29 PM
[OOC: I can use my "New Arcana to add Haste if you think that would be wise for this group]

"So, where are we with respect to watches?" asks Talia to Mister Murphy.

DM Ken: Easy Camping 
Wednesday August 15th, 2018 9:40:40 PM

Murphy begins to cast his commune with Nature spell. He lets it be known all the things he desires to know, and like before, experiences a strange resistance. He is freely told that the Emerald City is 10 miles east.

-Murphy must make a Diplomacy Check DC 25 to reveal any information that pertains to the Wolpertingers.

Pressi explains the results, as she knows them, of her divinations. The night passed without any fuss, and now day has come.


Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22  d20+13=19 ;
Wednesday August 15th, 2018 11:16:17 PM

I should like to appeal the DC 25 requirement, since earlier when Murphy made an identical inquiry, the DC was 20 (and he rolled a 27). Also, Murphy shall expend a hero point to up his persuasiveness on the matter.

As he communes with the Culverwood, he gently asks the reason for the reluctance. If his pursuit of the wolpertinger is considered a Bad Thing, he would like to understand why. "Teach me," he communes with the land. He conveys a sense of openness, humility, a desire to learn, and a desire to live, so far as he is able, in harmony with the spirit of the land.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Thursday August 16th, 2018 3:45:10 AM

Earlier, post sneak attack response
Faced the unexpected rapprochement with Pressi in the morning, Murphy responds with affection, touched with a small dollop of restraint. "I think, in some ways, that certain definitions of terms may be leading to misunderstandings here and there - and that is on me." He nuzzles her neck, and whispers, "Suppose we might be able to puzzle things out together?"

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Thursday August 16th, 2018 5:35:26 AM
“So, are we going to trek the 10 miles to Emerald City, or are we going to start looking for these crazy beasts so we can get home?” Succotash asks, “Were you able to gain anything more Murphy?”

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Thursday August 16th, 2018 3:47:40 PM
Talia, now rested, and thinking about the request to add haste to her repertoire of known spells, decides to add haste to her list of known spells using theNew Arcana Bloodline Power.

Talia asks, "Has it been decided to journey to the Emerald City? "

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17 (currently 16; 19 vs. Greater Shadow); HP 119/119, CMD 24; Fatigued (-2 penalty to Str and Dex) 
Thursday August 16th, 2018 3:56:57 PM
Kezzem begins to sing softly to himself:

"One short day
In the Emerald City
One short day
Full of so much to do
Ev'ry way
That you look in the city
There's something exquisite
You'll want to visit
Before the day's through."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Thursday August 16th, 2018 5:30:32 PM

[I'd like to respond to your question(s), but must await DM Ken's next post, to exit spell-result limbo. :-) ]


Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Thursday August 16th, 2018 6:33:21 PM
“Well at minimum I’d like to report these dead guys. And I am still hoping that Murphy is right about finding a guide there. But I am glad to also blast right into forest central if everyone else wants to bypass it.”

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Friday August 17th, 2018 5:24:38 AM
“That’s a good point Pressi”, Succotash remarked, “While getting these wopeltingers is our main objective, undead wearing expensive looking jewelry is a bit of a mystery, a mystery that warrants investigation”. “However, if Murphy is able to track some of the little beasts down, near our current location, well then, we would be foolish to pass up the opportunity”.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Friday August 17th, 2018 9:34:57 AM
"I should mention that I'm not entirely sure how I feel about going back to this city," Pressi replied.

"Not that I expect anyone to remember me in this city, but if they do it's as a surly employee or small time thief. Somehow, coming back as the wicked witch of the valley doesn't seem a step up."

DM Ken: Easy Camping 
Friday August 17th, 2018 2:39:24 PM

Murphy finds that the difficulty in negotiating with the Culverwood has indeed, gotten more difficult. The situation has also changed. He asks several questions not usually associated with the Commune with Nature spell, but the Culverwood seems eager to answer. It's voice pounds in his head.

"You come to hunt. I seek to preserve. Wolpertingers are magical beasts, and rearing young. You are from these lands, and are counted as a natural predator. I do not intend to aid, but will not hinder."

Murphy senses some hesitation, like a friend doing a favor it does not want. He cajoled it into helping him once, with proper diplomacy as demonstrated earlier, he could maybe convince it once more.

----------

Pressi and the others are concerned about reporting the shadows to the Emerald City. At least the Culverwood was willing to guide Murphy in that particular direction, as he has not yet convinced it for more information on the Wolpertingers.

---------

Speaking of Jewelry, one of the Sword did successfully appraise the spoils from the last encounter.

All players add 850 Xp.
Appraised value of the jewelry, silks, and finery is 8,000 gp.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (full spells) 
Friday August 17th, 2018 4:22:40 PM
Zaragosa again will politely object to receive any reward for a fight in which he did nothing. He also shares his gratitude for all the kind words his teammates have shown him. "I am covered in head to toe in magical items, I lack for nothing. I only wish to continue with you, perhaps gain some fame or locate some lost friends."

He also stays out of the decision to share information with the Emerald City since he has no idea what that is.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22  d20+21=36 ;
Friday August 17th, 2018 5:06:15 PM
Murphy communes further with the Culverwood:
"Ah, thank you, mighty Culverwood. You have helped me better to understand," Murphy replies with genuine gratitude. "I will tell you freely, we sought for five of the creatures. As they are rearing young, though, and we do want them to flourish... I shall seek for only two. If I can capture, rather than kill outright, I will try. I cannot guarantee no deaths of these wondrous creatures while here in your realm, but that shall be my effort in this matter.

"Though, yes, I do hunt, I would never wish to hunt such creatures to extinction. I will make a covenant with you, if you will. I cannot promise an exact time frame on this, but will within coming years take steps to aid the wolpertingers, to help them breed, though not beyond reason. Each creature has its place. If that place is threatened, I would do what is in my power to aim for balance, for restoration where possible. For intelligent migration if necessary.

"Should you concur with me on this, and help me know where to look, and how not to overstep, then I shall covenant with you to help protect the wolpertinger line, so they do not cease to be.

"If not, in accordance with what you have said to neither help nor hinder me, I will seek information elsewhere, to keep a promise I made to another. My worry, though, is, if I involve others than my close friends, I cannot control what an unknown guide may do after we leave - will such a guide lead others to the wolpertingers?

"Yet, if you vouchsafe their whereabouts to me, I shall extract promises from my friends to hold that information in confidence from others, and invite those who wish to share with me in this covenant to do what we are able to ensure survival of this marvelous sort of beast.

"Furthermore, I shall raise a shrine to you on a bit of land where I spend some time, and speak to others of the careful discernment you exercise in caring for the creatures who call your domain home, and the need to walk with respect and wisdom while in this mighty forest."
Murphy awaits a response to his covenantal proposal.

Diplomacy: 36 (including +8 from hero point)

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+20=34 ;
Friday August 17th, 2018 5:28:43 PM
Talia asked the assumed group that isn't otherwise engaged in an activity, "How do you make permanent a light type spell on a sling stone?"

Ever vigilant since the "Shadow Walk" journey, Talia makes sure they are safe, by keeping an eye on their surroundings. [Skill: Perception: 34]

"So, are we camping another day before heading off?" asks Talia of Pressi.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Friday August 17th, 2018 5:47:49 PM


If 'Yes' to the proposed covenant, Murphy says:
"Friends, the wolpertinger are with young. We may take only two adults - and no nursing mothers. Before we hunt, we must obtain two very strong cages which their mighty teeth may not destroy, and attempt to take a pair alive.

"Also, as we were asked to bring four, or five, for the uniting families to share at feast, an explanation will need to be provided as to why only two were provided. If we do manage to capture, rather than kill, might we be able to persuade them to preserve the wolpertingers, and we can return them to the forest? I don't know. If they choose to kill and prepare them for the wedding feast, then that will be their choice, and I shall not gainsay it.

"So, cages. First, let's go to Emerald City. Second, no guides. The Culverwood has given me guidance, and knowledge of the whereabouts of the wolpertingers is not to be provided to others."
If no further information is provided:
"Friends, the wolpertinger are with young. The Culverwood is concerned for their preservation, and neither will aid nor resist me, us. But their location, I was not given. They are somewhere within 11 miles of this place we are at. So, as Bliss had suggested two days ago, we may need to hire a guide. Also, to buy two stout cages, not vulnerable to their sharp teeth and claws.

"Let us endeavor to capture a pair of them, to not kill any others. Bliss knows how to subdue an opponent without bringing it death. Most of my spells are not so subtle. Talia's slow spell could prove useful - as could haste."
After his report, Murphy stretches, and works a kink out of his neck. "Emerald City is that way. Shall we travel afoot, or otherwise? I'm open to options."

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle) 
Friday August 17th, 2018 11:48:13 PM

Bliss grins. "Good job, Mister Murphy! You are a good guide!"

The halfling is eager to follow Murphy's newly gained intelligence.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Saturday August 18th, 2018 9:31:38 AM
“Well, that’s unfortunate because I don’t know if it’s a deal we can make,” Pressi replied. “We we’re searching for others and they presumably wanted four for a reason. And even if they could make due with two, we promised four and can’t ask to change it now.

“And that’s before the logistics of targeting the right number and no nursing mothers. And for what? The vague hope that the Culverwood will help us a little? Look, if I took over the negotiations, nature would throw half my Sargrass speech in my face. I know I am being a bit of a hypocrite. But at least I enter negotiations knowing what I can offer.”

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17 (currently 16; 19 vs. Greater Shadow); HP 119/119, CMD 24; Fatigued (-2 penalty to Str and Dex) 
Saturday August 18th, 2018 11:32:33 AM
"But you didn't do nothing," says Kezzem. "You lay their really good and distracting like."

"Eh, don't worry Press, I'm sure Murph can figure this out...he's pretty good at this nature stuff."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Saturday August 18th, 2018 5:26:39 PM
To Talia's question while Murphy is talking to the Culverwood "Well, first you'll need to be able to cast Permanency. It's a Level 5 Wizard spell, I don't know that I've ever heard of a Sorcerer who knew that spell, but many an experienced Wizard will have it in his spellbook. I imagine in the Emerald City we could find one who knows it. The only other problem though, is that I've never heard of Light being made permanent on an object. I've seen Dancing Lights made permanent a few times, but never Light. Couldn't hurt to ask around though."

When Murphy comes back and tells us we can only take two:
Pressi's right, we need 4. Any arrangement you made with the Culverwood for only 2, you'll need to renegotiate. I'm sure we aren't going to kill off the species by killing 4 of them. If it's really that big of a problem, why don't we take 4 males, and then you can come back next mating season and summon more males to get the females pregnant. We've got a job to do for the Mayor, and frankly I care more about getting the job done than I do about making sure there are no seasonal dips in the birthrate of Wolpertingers. Heck, if it matters so much, why don't we just find one of whatever naturally preys on Wolpertingers and kill one of those too. That'll keep the balance in line.



Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Saturday August 18th, 2018 6:31:19 PM

While communing with nature, Murphy has keep a telepathic communication channel open with Pressi, so she is tuned in to the conversation.

Just before the Culverwood responds, Murphy adds with a sigh,
"My lady love tells me we need four, to keep another agreement. I shall try to persuade her that three will do. And still see for the general health and welfare of the wolpertinger as time goes on."
Pressi can 'hear' what he is saying as he communes.


Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle) 
Saturday August 18th, 2018 7:31:05 PM

"We coulda saved some trouble by just going to Plateau City and getting a wizard to Poly Any Object four pigs into Wolperthingies," muses Bliss.

"Them's good eating!"

Bliss changes into a cat just so he can lick his chops better. His nose too, if he stretches his cat tongue a bit.

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Saturday August 18th, 2018 9:27:35 PM
“You know Bliss, you might be on to something”, Succotash says, “why didn’t we think os the polymorph idea before we left Humble’s Ford!” At the mention of the pig option, Miss Piggy gives a disapproving squeal, and Succotash quickly adds, “Maybe we could use domestic rabbits instead?”

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17 (currently 16; 19 vs. Greater Shadow); HP 119/119, CMD 24; Fatigued (-2 penalty to Str and Dex) 
Saturday August 18th, 2018 9:50:08 PM
Kezzem scratches Miss Piggy behind the ear. "Don't worry, Miss P, I'm sure that meanie Bliss meant polymorphing 4 kitty-cats into whatsa-tigers."

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Monday August 20th, 2018 5:34:02 AM
“So Murphy, what do you think about the polymorphic solution, it may solve some of our issues with the Culverwood, and besides, if the Wopeltingers are an endangered species, I would rather create our own than kill a few”.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Monday August 20th, 2018 1:32:27 PM
Pressi shakes her head as Murphy begins to negotiate with her, and as teammates begin to propose 8th level spell solutions.

"Or maybe we can hand them buckets of air, tell them that we liquidated them to invisible vapor, and try to fool our mayor and a couple of people that have done us no wrong and are counting on us. On the odd chance that works, would you feel good about it?

"Look, if something changes, I may switch sides on this. But for the most part, I think we have to remember why we are out here. People are counting on us and they didn't leave a lot of wiggle room or even an explanation of what they are using these creatures for, and I can't tell you if killing 2 or 4 makes that much of a difference to the population.

"At least let me try to message them with a scrying spell before we make a deal on their behalf."

In answer to the question of why we didn't think of this before, "Because it's of far greater magic than anything even Talia and I can do. Regular polymorphs don't actually change the creature so we need to find someone who's probably pretty hard to find, not to mention expensive. Oh, and we need a duration to last through the wedding, and a hope that magic modification doesn't change the taste."

Pressi begins the scrying spell, hoping to send a message to the mayor.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+20=31 ;
Monday August 20th, 2018 9:59:15 PM
Talia wants to know when the plans to migrate will be finalize, and who has the rooster for the watches tonight?

While waiting for the cacophony & Din of organization to subside, she's look around...[Skill: Perception: 31]

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Monday August 20th, 2018 11:15:26 PM

Murphy is on hold with the Culverwood...

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle) 
Monday August 20th, 2018 11:34:37 PM

"Miss Pressi, you are right. I think you should be the leader of the group."

Bliss watches carefully to see how Talia is going to come upon with a rooster. A Baleful Polymorph, maybe?

"It just better not wake me up at dawn!" Bliss warns.

He takes whatever watch Pressi suggests.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Monday August 20th, 2018 11:45:40 PM

[Gang: It's morning, right after breakfast. Do we need to worry about watches yet?]

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Tuesday August 21st, 2018 5:22:42 AM
As a way to pass the time, Succotash and Miss Piggy mock wrestle, using exaggerated moves for comedic reasons, and of course Piggy Wins. “No fair, you cheated”, Succotash fakes indignation. “You’re bigger than me, you should have let me win!”, He concludes with a chuckle.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22  d20+27=45 ;
Tuesday August 21st, 2018 6:19:06 AM

"Very well, then," Murphy communes, "We're going for four, to keep another promise. And I will still do what I can in the future to ensure the welfare of wolpertingers here in the Culverwood - and all I can to ensure no more than four are killed or captured, and that the nursing mothers and their kits are not hurt by any who are with me."
========

"Talia, a cleric or wizard or sorcerer simply casts the spell continual flame on to a regular torch. Since the spell itself creates a permanent effect, you may not need to use a permanencyi spell in order to make it."

"Mister Zaragosa - Might I suggest you take the share offered to and declined by you, and, since you do not feel you earned it yet, use it to help us buy some cages in Emerald City stout enough to carry perhaps one or two wolpertinger per cage - with a dividing wall inside to ensure they don't fight each other while caged. Let's see if we can't capture them alive. Whether we can get them back to our town via shadow walking again, or boating back up the river - hiring a couple of sailors to help us, or finding a giant sling to hurl us as a group all the way back to the valley - let's get what we need to carry them with us in relative safety for us and the critters."

"Thank you Bliss. The spell was a bit taxing this time around." [Should have more to say once a DM rings in on the Culverwood's final response.] "Say, Bliss, Pressi, Talia - Would you all tally the spell resources we have, and work with the team on optimizing - I mean, on making the best use of the spells we can cast as we try to figure out the best way to get the flying deer bunnies?

"Everyone, as I said, Emerald City is that direction," he points again, "ten miles east of here. We know that here in the forest there is always a chance of running into obstacles and encounters.

"Shall we shadow walk? Or use some other means to get there - such as riding our mounts, some flying?"

"Are you all open to the notion of trying to capture alive, rather than to kill the wolpertingers? Once we have caught four of them, I think we need to get them out of the area where the others are as quickly as we can.

"How might we subdue those we do not capture?

"What means do we have for having some of us sneak up to them, and capturing a few, if possible, before they even know we are there?

"If the group is fine with heading toward the city before we continue the hunt, then how about we discuss strategies and tactics along the way?"

Regarding Succotash's query about polymorph, Murphy concurs Pressi's response. "We might use baleful polymorph, as Talia earlier discussed, to transform one or more real wolpertingers into rabbits - but then we need to cage them quickly enough that the unpolymorphed wolpertingers don't consider them a tasty snack. Then whichever of us initially polymorphed them in the first place, after we have gotten them back to Crescent Valley, we can reverse the spell, so they return to their true form. I think. Right?" he asks his fellow spell casters. "If it works that way, it should deal with any questions of taste."

"Oh, I could store a spell in a staff, too."

Before they leave the area, Murphy suggests that a few of the members of the party who are able to fly, do so, to mark from above this specific area, so that they will all recognize it, should the group need to return to this spot where we camped. He wildshapes into an air elemental to fly up high - as high as 1000 feet above the tree tops, seeing if at that angle he can spot evidence of the city off to the east, as well as picking out several landmarks - or treemarks - for navigating from here to there, and possibly back again. Then will drop back down. Depending upon the mode of travel that the group chooses, he will decide whether to go back to halfling form or not.

Perception: 45

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Tuesday August 21st, 2018 1:37:17 PM
"Oh, and Pressi, are you up for going There? I know you seemed reluctant, due to past acquaintances, or the like?" Murphy asks.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Tuesday August 21st, 2018 2:49:53 PM
"I'm completely okay with the plan to bring them alive if possible. But these are flying critters, and if one of them is about to get away, I'm gonna put an arrow through it's heart."

Hobie has a solemn look on his face.

"Succotash almost died, for the sake of a dumb wedding feast. I want to get these stupid things and be done with it. I'm not concerned with nursing mothers or mating pairs or whatever. I'm concerned with getting the job over with.'


DM Carl - The Snipe Hunt Continues 
Tuesday August 21st, 2018 3:29:03 PM
It should have been simple. Find four wolpertingers, get them back to Humble's Ford dead or alive, and finally get the town leadership to take the issue with the Giant Towers seriously.

Yet, here they are. They've communed with the Culverwood, tried to barter the wolpertinger bounty down to two without one party there to negotiate with, and are still en route to Emerald City to hire a guide to make all this easier...not to mention almost getting their souls ripped out and being transformed into shadows.

Murphy's discussion with the Culverwood ends with a simple answer: It will not aid, nor hinder, as it said before.

It is morning. The plan seems to be to continue onwards towards Emerald city, which lies a mere 5 hours away if they walk at a good, non-stressful clip. There's talk of shadow walking, but what if they shadow walk right past a nest of wolpertingers?

One thing's for sure: they're not going to get anywhere standing around and planning. It's time to move.

***

IF the party continues towards Emerald City without shadow-walking, I need a survival check from everyone who has at least 1 rank.



Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Tuesday August 21st, 2018 3:38:24 PM
Pressi finally calmed down as people spoke over each other, and tried to calm others as well.

"Ok, a lot going on. But I think its settled, we'll try to take four and we'll try to take them alive and not harm the population, practical convenience issues, blah blah blah. And Murphy, I appreciate the time to speak my mind. It's not like I have a stake in this, but I did feel I needed to speak for the ones that do.

"It... is a shame that we need to stop off at the city to get supplies and do research, but I'm sure we could find some cages. As for planning, I was going to just let the new guys do it, but in general... I can do non-lethal melee and there probably are a few tricks I can use - polymorphs, flesh to stone, deep slumber, charm monster - but the key is probably going to be simple pit, net and other traps, probably should have asked what these things eat. The real trick, as Hobie noted, is that it's really going to be difficult to keep them alive but under control through the trip back, and I probably can't shadow walk carts... or them (they'd have to be added to the creature count). I won't have more than a slot or two to spare, so it looks like we are boating back. That, I don't really have any good ideas. But we probably need to shadow walk now to allow for some time later... if I can find sufficient shadowy areas within the next 10 minutes."

When Bliss is ready, Pressi begins their morning rituals and then prepares shadow walk (if she can find any shadowy areas).


Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17; HP 119/119, CMD 24 
Tuesday August 21st, 2018 4:03:31 PM
"Are you sure that's safe Press?" asks Kezzem as she preps for another shadow walk. "I don't want us to get attacked by the darkness again. I don't have any magic missiles to cast at it!"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22  d20+27=44 ;
Tuesday August 21st, 2018 5:22:30 PM

After his overhead reconnaissance for visual memory and later map-making purposes, the druid returns to the ground.

"Hobie, if one is getting away, but there are more to be had - or if we already have some, why kill the escaping one?" Murphy asks. "I'm sure I can fly faster than these critters. How about if you fit some of your arrows with bird blunts? Knock 'em out, rather than knockin' 'em dead. And that way, you probably don't get blood all over their feathers and fur."

He offers an option. "Shadow walking should get us to or near the city in about ten minutes, once we start. Sounds good to me. If anyone thinks it a good idea, most of you can shadow walk with Pressi, and I can fly above the tree level to get a bird's eye view of the forest between here and the city. Just in case there happen to be any wolpertingers in this stretch of woods, I might have a chance of seeing them.

"We should arrive in the city about the same time, and Pressi and I can communicate to figure out where each is, then regroup.

"But if y'all want us to stick together through the walk, I'm happy to come along that way. Any preference, friends? Some aerial recon, or all walk together?"

If enough people are open to the split group to cross the distance, then Murphy flies just above the treetops, looking and listening as well as one might when traveling over 60 miles per hour at that height. Otherwise, he's with the group. Perception 44

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Tuesday August 21st, 2018 5:49:35 PM
"Mister Murphy?" says Talia in a questioning tone. "Didn't you say the Culverwood said that the WhoperTings are magical creatures? What if they have Spell Resistance?! What is they can fight back? There are too many "What if" questions here that I do not believe we are actually taking into account for this little soiree!" says Talia.



The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (full spells) 
Tuesday August 21st, 2018 7:29:10 PM
"That sounds like an excellent idea!" Zaragosa says to Murphey, as he tips his hat to Murphey "That would help us in our current task. I could track ahead. I can be very stealthy when needed though I have never hunted anything like this before so I don't know what I would do. I am ready to follow any order given, within reason of course."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Tuesday August 21st, 2018 7:45:48 PM

"Yes, they are magical creatures. Depending upon how we approach the task - there's a fair chance some of them will try to fight back. Spell resistance? I'd be surprised if they do - I don't think they are fae creatures, but, if they do have some, then, they might resist a spell or two. There are plenty of 'what ifs' to think about - good on you for bringing some up. That will not necessarily help them to resist nets, though.

"I can cast owl's wisdom, which raises the effectiveness of the spells I cast. If someone has the means to bolster your already entrancing charisma, and that of the paladins, or the intellect of our witches, that could somewhat help us in the situation you described.

"I can cast a 45' high wall of wind, making it so they cannot fly through it - though they might fly above it with some effort. What if you had baleful polymorph prepared to alter them just as they fly above the wall?"

"What other 'what ifs' can we come up with? Thanks for those, Talia."

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+2=12 ; d20+20=31 ;
Tuesday August 21st, 2018 7:51:10 PM
After saying her say, Talia casts Overland Flight on herself. Using her skills for survival [Skills: Survival: 12] and her perception while traveling -- [Skills: Perception: 31].

Assuming the travel order with place Talia somewhere in the middle of the troop.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 89/94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23  d20+14=22 ; d20+19=28 ;
Tuesday August 21st, 2018 9:25:14 PM
(OOC: Apologies. I posted at the same time as Ken.)

Woldsblood. Crone form. Ritual of Warding. Ritual of extended shared shield of faith+lore, CLW wand on Bliss. Mockery at Kezzem. Just a normal day.

It seems that people are splitting into groups between Murphy (land moving) and Pressi (shadow walk) but we still await the particular split (other than Talia). Pressi does reassure Kezzem that shadow attacks are not the norm.

Still, if basically everyone wants to join Murphy, she will too. (Survival 22, Perception 28). She considers joining Talia with her own ability, flying broom, but the group will probably want her on the ground for tracking (Relentless Tracker from Justicar - add 2 CL to the above roll if for tracking.)

As for Talia, she doesn't have a ready answer beyond "run away" as an "autonomous collective." She does point out, though, that they have a lot of options at their disposal, and she has an ability to scan all the strengths and weaknesses of any creature with a simple touch. Also, SR gives you no protection from pit traps. Just saying.



Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle)  d20+13=23 ;
Tuesday August 21st, 2018 9:31:57 PM

Bliss does his morning prep with his coven partner.

Grimalkin for Bliss and Shield of Faith for a Shared Spell.

Let me know if you need rolls.

Bliss leads the way to the Emerald City!

Survival 23!

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5  d20=12 ; d20=15 ;
Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 5:29:04 AM
Succotash rolls 12+3=15 for survival
Miss Piggy rolls 15+7=22 for survival

Succotash mounts Miss Piggy and says, “Lead on Bliss, Emerald City awaits, by the way, isn’t there supposed to a a yellow brick road or something?”

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 12:22:47 PM
"Well, the whole point of getting to the culverwood was that the Wolpertingers are here right? I'd prefer to just walk through the woods here rather than shadow walk, in case we run across a couple. Either way, I go where Pressi goes. Let her lead on."

To Murphy "Obviously I'm not gonna kill them if we can take them alive. If you can outfly them then by all means do, but if one is going to escape, I'm shooting it. As for blunted arrows, what I wouldn't give to get my hands on some of those, but unfortunately they don't exist in the Wold. I've heard of other worlds where the gods granted people Advanced weaponry, but as far as I know, in the Wold our gods have only given us Core weaponry. Alas!"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 89/94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 12:44:16 PM
Since the consensus is everyone walks, Pressi doesn’t cast shadow walk.

DM Carl - The Snipe Hunt Continues 
Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 1:17:52 PM
Pressi's nerves settle down. Her and Bliss are able to find a moment to complete their morning rituals.

Talia and Murphy have a chat about the wolpertingers fighting back. They may fight back, but Humble's Sword has taken down a dragon. Surely they can handle a few wolpertingers.

Murphy takes a moment to get an aerial view of the area. There's talk of whether or not to shadow walk to Emerald City. Hobie makes the point that the wolpertingers are right here in the forest, and skipping over it may not be their best bet.

Pressi decides she'll join Murphy and the rest on land, and seeing how she's the primary source for shadow-walking, that kind of settles it.

...and she almost misses it. If not her her Justicar training, she would have missed it. They're rabbit tracks. There's just a few of them in a clearing, with none exiting or leaving the surrounding vegetation. It could very well be a large hair on the run leapt into the clearing and leapt out, or it could have flown. They do not look fresh; it's likely been several days since they were made.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22  d20+15=16 ; d20+15=35 ;
Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 3:18:11 PM

Earlier conversation with Hobie
"Alas? So the Catacombs do not sell them," Murphy says to Hobie. "A dagger to remove the point, and make a light notch on each side near the end of the shaft for string to bite into. A bit of cloth. A foot or two of string or twine. You can make your own bird blunt arrow, Hobie. It takes maybe ten minutes the first time. With practice, maybe five minutes or less per arrow. I've got string and twine, and cloth. I'd be happy to help you with it."

If Hobie agrees, Murphy does help, switching back to his halfling self so he can access the materials he listed, but not quite as expertly as he expected he might - Survival 16 for the first bird blunt attempt - not terrible, but not magnificent. At least Hobie should get the gist of how to blunt an arrow, and he leaves him with 25 feet of string, a square of canvas, and a cloth bag. "You can use leather, too, for such a tip."

At present
So, the group sets out for a traipse through the forest, with Murphy riding Skipper. "I love these woods," the druid remarks. And Pressi spots the rabbit tracks. "Great eye, Diamond Dust." He looks over the area.

"Trackers - time to get to work. We may be able to find a nest in this neck of the woods. As Pressi pointed out, the tracks are a few days old." Murphy looks at the main direction the footprints point. Were there some with a heavier imprint, such as from landing, or from a take-off point? If so, he tries to gauge the direction.

Next, he uses his druidic ability to pass without trace to check the surrounding vegetation, to see if there is a sign within the bushes of a critter passing through the leaves, perhaps breaking twigs here and there, or leaving additional imprints in the soil under the brush, as well as evidence of passage through the undergrowth. He follows the trail for a short distance and reports back if such is found. If not, he likewise passes on the lack of nearby rabbit tracks within the local vegetation. Surely other members of the group will be conducting a similar search.

"We don't know, should these be wolpertinger tracks, whether it was flying from the burrow, or back towards it. Thoughts?"

Survival, tracking: 35

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle)  d20+13=31 ; d20+22=41 ; d20+27=37 ;
Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 6:20:28 PM
Bliss changes into a cat and smells the tracks (scent ability).

he uses his brand spankin new survival skills to track. He is sneaky in hunting mode.

Survival 31
Prception 41
Stealth 37

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (full spells)  d20+23=37 ; d20+5=15 ; d20=6 ;
Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 9:19:31 PM
Whenever he travels with the group anywhere, Zaragosa will whisper to one of the rings he carries. This helps him travel more quietly then he already does. (+10 if the DM allows for the circumstance.) Zaragosa will not trail ahead to scout until requested, but he does take his time to be quiet whenever possible. (unless the group wants to travel at faster paces.

He was not a man of the outdoors, but being a bard, he knew a little of everything. So he would take a look at the tracks and see what he could come up with. He just wanted to know if it was the animal, these wolpertingers, they were tracking (knowledge nature? He did look to see if he could follow the tracks, but he knew he was no good at actual tracking.

Stealth 37 (or 47 with the ring)
Knowledge nature 15
survival 6

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 9:56:04 PM

Quick Query: How far from our campsite did we travel towards Emerald City before we came upon the 'bunny' tracks? The total distance between campsite and city is ~10 miles.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17; HP 119/119, CMD 24  d20+1=7 ; d20+9=19 ; d20+1=11 ;
Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 11:43:07 PM
Kezzem puts his less than formidably tracking skills to the test, but honestly, he has trouble following Murphy's tracks.

Perception: 7.
Stealth: 19.
Survival: 11.

"Hey, were did Bliss and Zaragosa go?" he asks as the pair seemingly vanish into the Culverwood.


Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5  d20+3=15 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+7=8 ; d20+7=12 ;
Thursday August 23rd, 2018 5:25:24 AM
“Ok Piggy, time to put your nose to work, and we’re not looking for truffles this time”, Succotash says with a smile, “However, If you do find some truffles, those things are delicious!”

Succotash: survival 15, perception 11
Miss Piggy (scent): survival 8, perception 12

“Umm, Piggy, the tracks are over here!”

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5  d20+7=12 ; d20+6=10 ;
Thursday August 23rd, 2018 5:31:02 AM
Succotash rolls a 12 for stealth, and Miss Piggy rolls a 10.
“Guys, I hope you weren’t wanting me to move stealthily, full plate armor tends to interfere with that”.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 89/94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23  d20+19=39 ; d20+24=41 ; d20+1=18 ; d20+6=11 ; d20+9=29 ;
Thursday August 23rd, 2018 10:36:51 AM
"Yeah, my eyes had nothing to do with it," Pressi replied. "The Wolpertingers know they are being tracked... on some primitive level. The downside to Justicar abilities."

Pressi turns off her ability for now, choosing to aid another (no fail) for Bliss, along with using perception (Nat 20) and stealth (41) to hunt.

Harper makes an attempt to help. (Rolls: survival 18, perception 11, stealth nat 20).

Pressi also makes an attempt to cast locate creature: wolpertinger. (I need a DM ruling as to whether seeing a drawing is sufficient to fulfill the requirements.)

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

crone form
ritual of warding
shared spell: extended shield of faith

L1: 7+1
L2: 5+1
L3: 4+1
L4 1/3+1 (2?)
L5: 0/2+1



Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22 
Thursday August 23rd, 2018 2:42:50 PM

[Actually, Pressi, you have two pictures - the one that Murphy sketched, and the one that Mayor Bumbleluck provided.]

"I hope that we find only normal wolpertingers, and not the larger dire ones," Murphy says. "If we find the latter, then one could probably feed a fair-sized wedding party. But they can be nasty in combat." He then adds, "But, judging by the footprints left, if a wolpertinger, it looks like the small version."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Thursday August 23rd, 2018 3:55:07 PM
ooc: DMs, is Kim right? Can Hobie craft blunted arrows? I always assumed I just can't have them because they are in the APG and not in the CRB, but if its possible for me to have them, I definitely want some blunted arrows. Would have helped a lot against that crystal construct.

DM Carl - The Snipe Hunt Continues  d20+14=27 ; d3=2 ;
Thursday August 23rd, 2018 4:32:05 PM
Murphy sets to work hunting down the wopletingers he hopes are nearby. He's a skilled enough tracker to determine the direction the tracks were heading and can follow them, but they don't lead anywhere interesting in the immediate vicinity.

(Humble's Sword travelled about 2 miles before finding these tracks.)

Bliss has an ability Murphy lacks in his present form: Scent. The passing happened too long ago to leave any scent, however. Bliss smells lots of interesting things, but isn't quite sure what a wolpertinger smells like. He's quiet, though. It's unlikely he scarred any off.

Jack can hide better than his mannerisms would indicate. He can't track worth a tinker's cuss, though.

Kezzem...is Kezzem, and we love him.

Succotash and Pig try to track as well, but Piggy's not interested in wolpertingers. She does find a very small truffle, though!

Pressi makes sure folks know that the wolpertinger who made these tracks knows it's being hunted. Thankfully, the rest of the pack shouldn't. Her perception skills are on point, but can't find anything that Murphy and Bliss can't. Harper can't help much, but manages to stay quiet. She tries getting a bead on any nearby, but feels her spell won't cut it. She may know what they look like, but her magic is much too personal for a painting to substitute for actual contact.

Hobie needs some blunted arrows. He wonders why he hasn't thought of them before.

With no other leads and with a somewhat active trail, our capable heroes follow the trail. It is not easy. The longer you follow, the further apart the tracks become. Soon, you find that tracks come down at different angles than they came from. While this does lend credence to the idea that these are wolpertinger tracks, it doesn't make the job of tracking them any easier. The party is forced to fan out to locate each set of tracks.

It is Bliss who first sees the creature. It seems to be alone, and is almost certainly trying to hide from you. (Perception vs stealth of 27 - success. Rolled d3 to determine who spots it.) As soon as its eyes lock with Bliss', it takes off into the brush.

It appears the hunt is on!

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 halfling AC/FF/T 22/18/16 CMB 10 CMD 22  d20+27=43 ;
Thursday August 23rd, 2018 10:05:51 PM

Murphy messages to Pressi, "Bliss found it. It's bounding through the underbrush. Ask folks not to kill it, if it looks like they're about to try. We're on the chase." He tells her this as he pulls out his folded net to set beside him, and wild shapes into an air elemental. Aloud, he says in halfling, "Capture."

Perception (sight and hearing): 43

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+20=29 ; d20+20=26 ; d20+20=35 ; d20+2=4 ; d20+2=7 ; d20+2=17 ;
Thursday August 23rd, 2018 10:20:34 PM
Talia, casts Fly on herself in hopes to be able to keep the quarry in sight as it flees. Talia will stay between 10 and 15 ft above the ground while trying to keep up with the WhopperTinger.

Using her skills of Perception [Skill: Perception: 29, 26, 35] & Survival, [Skill: Survival: 4,7,17] while flying above the quarry.



Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle) 
Thursday August 23rd, 2018 11:53:07 PM

Bliss dashes off after it, at a speed of 50 with his barbarian and magical boosts. He tries to get a good sniff, so he will know it next time, even if getting the scent means he loses some ground.

Then he chases!

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Air Elemental AC/FF/T 29/22/19 CMB 12 CMD 27  d20+13=22 ;
Friday August 24th, 2018 2:36:12 AM

(just in case we're not yet in combat rounds)

Air Murphy picks up the folded net, and sets off in pursuit of the deer bird bunny, following the sounds, and what views he may be able to pick up. As he flies 115, perfectly (expertly dodging trees and other obstacles in his path above the bushes), he intends to get up and ahead of the critter. He readies the net should the wolpertinger fly up above the underbrush. First ranged touch attack comes in at... 18 (forgot to subtract -4 for nonproficiency). This might be a few rounds ahead though...



Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Friday August 24th, 2018 3:43:52 AM
Hobie sees Bliss take off running, so he chases after, gripping Prowler tightly in his left hand. He is watching Murphy and Bliss to see how well they handle the capture, deferring at first to them before casting any spells or loosing any arrows.



Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5  d20+7=17 ; d20+7=23 ;
Friday August 24th, 2018 5:37:59 AM
Succotash lightheartedly scolds Miss Piggy, and then takes the truffle saying “it’s pretty small, but with these things, a little goes a long way, should add some lovely flavor to dinner tonight”. He than mounts Miss Piggy, and follows his friends with the net Murphy gave him in hand. When Bliss spots the first wolpertinger, he holds back a little, figuring his friends have things under control, instead he and Piggy try to see if any others are hidden.

Succotash perception: 17
Miss Piggy perception (scent): 23

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 89/94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Friday August 24th, 2018 10:36:52 AM
Harper takes off like a shot but not directly at the creature. Pressi instead orders Harper to stay by the creatures side in an attempt to corner the creature. (An action is readied to attempt a grapple if the rabbit runs towards Harper.)

Pressi chooses to attempt casting deep slumber on it if she can get within 45 feet of it (or can cast through Harper via shared spell). (Will DC 20).

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17; HP 119/119, CMD 24 
Friday August 24th, 2018 1:10:20 PM
"I really should have thought to do this this before we started hunting," says Kezzem. "Rumpus, to me, my loyal steed. Your speed is needed."

OOC: Summon Mount (full-round action).

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (full spells)  d20+33=42 ; d20=12 ; d20+7=23 ;
Friday August 24th, 2018 7:45:54 PM
(OCC, I laughed when I read the DM's response about my character. My wife thought I was crazy)

Zaragosa did not like the idea of fanning out on the trails. He was not good at this 'nature' thing at all and thought he might get lost. He would ask anyone if he could travel with them.

If so. He would go at their pace. If quietly, then extremely quietly. If they need to move quickly, Zaragosa would whisper to his boots which would double his movement speed but only for a minute (boots of speed)

If not, he would try his best not to get lost while going at half speed to be stealthy in hopes that someone will find him later

stealth 42
survival tracking 12
perception 23


DM Carl - The Snipe Hunt Continues 
Friday August 24th, 2018 8:32:18 PM
The wolpertinger doesn't make it very far on land before it takes to the skies, but Bliss is too fast, too graceful, and too fierce for it to get away.

(Your rolls are too high for it to escape w/ anything other than a Nat1, so I'm moving this along.)

CatBliss' distaste for blood comes in handy as he's able to quickly subdue the thing. A constant pressure on the beast's throat ensures it stops thrashing in a few minutes. Its breathing continues once Bliss lets go (if he wants to!).

The rest of Humble's Sword comes tearing through the forest. Kudos to the team for knowing how to snap into action, but it's a shame it worked out so anticlimactically.

There are no signs of any other wolpertingers nearby.

(Only one survival roll is necessary. Reveal up to your point of failure.)

Survival DC 10, Highlight to display spoiler: {This is an adolescent wolpertinger.}
Survival DC 20, Highlight to display spoiler: {Wolpertingers of this age have already left their packs.}
Survival DC 25, Highlight to display spoiler: {...but siblings do tend to stick together when they leave their parents. Solitary wolpertingers are rare.}
Survival DC 30, Highlight to display spoiler: {Given the age, and assuming all the rest of the wolpertingers in the pack are about the same age, they probably hunt in an area of roughly 2 sq miles. Of course, it's unlikely those 2 sq miles are centered on your exact location.}

It is still before noon.

***

In the interest of not having two missing DM posts in a week, I'll post again this weekend if everyone can get a post in by Sunday morning.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+2=3 ;
Friday August 24th, 2018 9:04:01 PM
Talia, realizing the quarry is had, flys down the the ground and joins Bliss. Looking at the wolpertinger, coupled with her survival skill [Skill: Survival::3 (NAT 1) ], Talia couldn't tell the back end from the front!

Asking Bliss, "Should I through a tanglefoot bag on it or turn it in a snail for easy transporting?"

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17; HP 119/119, CMD 24  d20+1=2 ;
Friday August 24th, 2018 10:00:46 PM
Kezzem mounts Rumpus and attempts to follow after his friends.

Survival: 2 (natural 1).

Unfortunately, tracking is not his strong suit. "Hey, where did everyone go?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Air Elemental AC/FF/T 29/22/19 CMB 12 CMD 27  d20+15=25 ; d20+27=30 ;
Friday August 24th, 2018 10:22:17 PM

"Nicely done, Bliss. Might I wrap it for you?" He unfolds the net, offers to wrap it a few times about the wolpertinger. Then he uses the 10' length of rope at a corner of the net to tie after the critter is wrapped. As he does so, he gets a good look at the air rabbit, attending to the lay of the feathers, the colors.

"There may be another one nearby. This one is adolescent."

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (full spells)  d20=8 ;
Friday August 24th, 2018 11:52:03 PM
(missing the DM posts are fine by me. Classes just started so I missed one myself)

Survival score of 8 because Zaragosa no so good at outdoorsy

Zaragosa was just relieved to find the rest of the humble sword. They seem to have captured at least one of these things but Zaragosa has no idea on where to find another one.

"Well done Bliss! you have shown us all up! Very well down indeed, good show" Zaragosa blunders out as he catches his breath

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5  d20+7=10 ; d20+3=4 ;
Saturday August 25th, 2018 5:54:01 AM
Miss Piggy with a survival roll of 10 knows that this is a adolescent wolpletinger, however apparently, Succotash is too busy trying to decide what to use the truffle for to notice anything (natural 1).

Succotash scratches Bliss (while in cat form) behind the ears, and says, “Well done my friend! Now we only need 3 more”.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Air Elemental AC/FF/T 29/22/19 CMB 12 CMD 27  d20+27=36 ; d20+15=31 ;
Saturday August 25th, 2018 8:09:01 PM

Murphy comments as things settle down from the quick chase, "I hope the local wolpertinger nest is under threat by no one except for us. If not, we may have to defend those whom we pursue." He looks around to ensure everyone is in good shape. "Shall we continue to hunt? Succotash, might I place - say, is that a truffle you've got there?" he asks as he flies closer with the wrapped wolpertinger package. "Nice. I was going to ask, might we tie this critter to the back of Miss Piggy? Then we can set out and look for more."

If Succotash (or someone else with a mount, or someone with a better suggestion) is good enough to lash the bunny to the back (or figure out a better way to carry the net-wrapped fellow), then Murphy flies up high above the treetops, and takes a quick look about. [Perception: 36; Survival: 31]

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 89/94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23  d20+14=20 ; d20+19=38 ;
Saturday August 25th, 2018 9:00:43 PM
Survival 20.

"I don't really have a better way to transport him... Well, maybe "deep slumber" or "flesh to stone." Honestly, it probably would have been better off if we just snapped its neck. But since you asked... First, I don't think its a good idea to hunt around here. This guy clearly left his pack. Second, I guess it depends on what you consider the most dignified and least painful... I guess the back pack thing works unless we can find better at Emerald City."

Pressi does take some time to also look around (Perception 38).

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle)  d20+13=25 ; d20+13=14 ;
Saturday August 25th, 2018 10:22:44 PM
Survival 25

Bliss does not kill the odd bunny, and lets Kim bind it. When it is secure, he turns into a halfling long enough to say that maybe it has siblings around abouts.

Maybe Mister Murphy can ask it if it has brothers or sisters or others of its folk nearby.

Then Bliss changes back into a cat and begins circling around for another trail.

Survival to track ... 14.

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5  d20+7=21 ; d20+7=11 ;
Sunday August 26th, 2018 7:03:53 AM
“I’s small but this little packed is packed with yummyness, any ideas as to how to use Murph?”, Succotash says while holding up the truffle, “and of course we can sling the makeshift net bag on Miss Piggy’s saddle, she’s a tough pig, and this doesn’t weight that much so no problem”.
Succotash rolls a 21, and Miss Piggy an 11 for perception while looking for more signs of the beasts.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Sunday August 26th, 2018 7:40:00 AM
"Nice job Bliss! I wonder where we might find three more?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Air Elemental AC/FF/T 29/22/19 CMB 12 CMD 27 
Sunday August 26th, 2018 1:38:58 PM

"What to do with the truffle? Yes, Succotash. I've cooked with them before, and they are exquisitely delicious. I'd suggest we see if we can find some more, and add them to the .Mayor's wedding feast," Murphy answers his friend. "What do you think of that notion?"

DM Carl - The Snipe Hunt Continues 
Sunday August 26th, 2018 4:22:44 PM
Talia and Kezzem are both very clueless about this wolpertinger.

Murphy secures their prey in his net, noting it's just an adolescent.

OOC: Kim, what are those rolls for? It looks like survival and perception. Is that right?

Zaragosa isn't much better about outdoorsy stuff than Talia and Kezzem. He congratulates Bliss on his capture.

Murphy ties the secured wolpertinger to Miss Piggy's back. Then, he takes off to look for more.

Pressi mentions killing it would be easier. Maybe she's right? It's going to be eaten if it's handed over to the mayor back home anyway. Her finely tuned senses take in the surrounding area.

Bliss suggests Murphy speak with the thing before turning back into a cat and continuing. He has a good idea on what wolpertingers smell like now, so his scent ability will be useful. He fails to find anything nearby, though.

Hobie asks around, wondering how they can find more.

Murphy and Pressi are both able to take in the surrounding area. Unfortunately, Pressi is not a tracker, and Murphy is above the treeline and unable to see anything other than...well, tree tops.

***

OOC: Hey folks, rolling survival checks until you luck out may work in a sit down game, but in this format it's just wasting time and not at all fun.

The original plan was to head to Emerald City. If you guys want to keep doing that, cool, we'll move on to that. If you want to search, I'm going to allow you to take 20 on a survival check if you spend an hour looking.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17; HP 119/119, CMD 24 
Sunday August 26th, 2018 7:15:06 PM
Kezzem takes 20 on his Survival check and eventually finds his friends.

"Oh, there you guys are!" says Kezzem. "I think Rumpus had me going in circles!"

Rumpus shakes his head. If a pony could roll its eyes, he would.

"Hey, you did you find a whatsistiger?"



The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (full spells)  d20=13 ; d20+7=21 ;
Sunday August 26th, 2018 9:05:26 PM
(Survival 13: zaragosa still knows nothing about the outdoors. He is starting to wonder where the indoor toilets are (just kidding). I don't care about the games pacing. It only helps me keep up with this new style of gaming. Just know I have very little to contribute.)

Zaragosa, not wanting to be useless. Tries to keep a lookout for any enemies while the others are tracking.'

Perception 21 to look out for anyone that means us harm.



Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Monday August 27th, 2018 5:24:05 AM
“Well, unless someone more skilled than I was able then find any other signs of the wopeltingers, I suggest we head to Emerald City, get some cages, and maybe a guide, and then see if we can find more of these little beasts”, Succotash suggests. “Murphy you could try casting speak with animals, and talking to the thing, like Bliss suggested”, Succotash offers, “ but I don’t know how much help it would be, I doubt it would be willing to give us the location of its family”.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 89/94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Monday August 27th, 2018 1:12:29 PM
If people are taking an hour to search, Pressi decides to take the time to search for tracks too.

(Survival 40 for an hour. She gets 20 from take 20, 14 from skills, and 6 from Justicar ability.)

"Isn't the help of speak with animals clear?" she asks Succotash. "To ease our conscience, we have deigned it necessary to capture only those animals that wish to be eaten. If our captive is anything short of enthusiastic to getting in our belly, even after soft persuasion, then surely eating him will be an affront to the predator-prey relationship. This is why I talk to the undead before eating them.

"Or I can question it until it cracks. A couple of the right spells ought to do it. By which I mean ensure my doom when the inevitable mechawhomp finally arrives."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Air Elemental AC/FF/T 29/22/19 CMB 12 CMD 27 
Monday August 27th, 2018 1:37:44 PM

Murphy takes 20 on survival: 35. [And, yes, Carl, his rolls in an earlier post were for perception and survival, as was mentioned at the very bottom of the post.]

"I suggest a patterned sweep, angling north, then south, as we head in a generally easterly direction toward the city. If we find something, good. If not, after we visit the city, we can return for a broader look."

If more wolpertinger are found, then we'll move into action. If not, then on to the city.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Air Elemental AC/FF/T 29/22/19 CMB 12 CMD 27 
Monday August 27th, 2018 1:56:47 PM

... Or, if we stir up some other critters, well, that might be entertaining, too.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Monday August 27th, 2018 3:05:35 PM
Talia thinks to herself, "Seeing as she is not a Ranger or of any suitable class for this journey, I'll just wait while they ply Hide and seek with the 'TIngers! I'll practice my Prestidigitation!"

Tailia practices the various aspects of gifts of Prestidigitation! Talia starts by cleaning the area she is sitting in with a bit of house dusting by Prestidigitation.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Air Elemental AC/FF/T 29/22/19 CMB 12 CMD 27 
Monday August 27th, 2018 7:18:08 PM

"And, uh, gang - let's try to stay reasonably close together as we do this. Say, no more than a couple hundred yards distance between us as we search," Murphy encourages the group. "Talia, how 'bout you walk a straight line to the east," he says, pointing that direction. "And make the trail clean and sparkle as you go along!" he teases her lightly.

Also, it should be mentioned that Murphy's searching while flying, is well below the treetops. Say in the 20'-50' altitude, depending upon the height and density of the local foliage.

"Bliss, and Succotash, I could try speak with animals. I hardly think it sporting, though, to chat with the poor fellow, and ask, 'By the way, do you suppose you can tell me where your fellows are?' Guys, I feel bad enough about this task as it is."

"Pressi, what in the Wold is a 'mechawhomp'? You know so many things, sometimes I just feel ignorant in your presence. Of course, I am ignorant about many things. Got to keep chipping away at my lack of knowledge in so many realms."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Monday August 27th, 2018 10:51:43 PM
"Sporting isn't our concern right now, we've got a job to do. We aren't hunting for hobby here. I'm with Succotash, I think we should keep heading to Emerald City"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Air Elemental AC/FF/T 29/22/19 CMB 12 CMD 27 
Monday August 27th, 2018 11:05:33 PM

"Fine, Hobie, you're irritated with me, because that is the rule now. Looked like some others were searching, too, including Pressi. I waited until I saw what she was doing before I suggested a pattern to a sweep as we move toward the east. I agree we head to the city - that is where we are going, but that we keep our eyes and ears and... noses on the alert as we travel toward the city, right? No brag, just fact - I can move almost six times faster than a few members of the party. You think it unwise that we look on the way? Or is this just part of the requirement to remain angry with Murphy?"

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Tuesday August 28th, 2018 5:09:26 AM
“ I’m not ANGRY with you Murph. I’m just annoyed at how much we are talking about their feelings and wellbeing and whatnot. We are hunting them so that our mayor can EAT them. Alive or dead, what does it matter?

He nocks an arrow and aims at the captured Wolpertinger

”In fact, why keep it alive and risk it escaping? If we kill it, you can just Gentle Repose it and keep the meat nice and fresh.



Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Tuesday August 28th, 2018 5:36:49 AM
“Don’t be to annoyed with Murphy, Hobie”, Succotash interjectes, “he’s a Druid, and you know how Druids are when it comes to critters, it’s in their nature to want to preserve and protect them”. “And yes, gentle repose is an option, but, I would rather keep them alive if possible. I’m not sure why, but I guess, I feel sorry for the little guy”.

DM Carl - The Snipe Hunt Continues 
Tuesday August 28th, 2018 1:05:22 PM
Kezzem has a look around, but tracking is still not his thing. Zaragosa's in the same boat, so he stands guard instead.

Succotash suggests heading to Emerald City, and that Murphy tries talking to the one they caught.

Pressi says some words that don't make sense to some folks, though everyone's sure they're supposed to be sarcastic.

Fortunately, her and Murphy are very good trackers. More tracks are found, and the two manage to narrow down a small number of possible locations for the local pack's lair.

Talia starts to clean the wilderness.

Tense words are shared between Hobie and Murphy regarding the fate of their captured wolpertinger and their next moves. Perhaps Hobie's desire to move on to Emerald City is somewhat diminished when Murphy and Pressi make progress in tracking down additional specimens? The consensus does seem to be on keeping the wolpertinger alive for the time being, though.

***

Thanks to the efforts of Pressi and Murphy, the two slowly, but surely, progress closer and closer to what they believe to be the...den? burrow? What do you call the nesting place of a bunch of wolpertingers? Anyway, they close in. Both are confident that with a little bit more effort, they'll be right on top of them.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Tuesday August 28th, 2018 1:57:25 PM
[OCC: A group of jackalopes is called a flaggerdoot ~ perhaps the same for Wolpertingers?]

Talia will stop with cleaning activities as the mighty trackers hone in on the quarry of Flaggerdoot!

Not being much up to the task of ranger / wilderness living...Talia will hang back with Kezzem & Zaragosa Guarding & watching the group.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 89/94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Tuesday August 28th, 2018 2:58:37 PM
"Mechawhomp is a common term meaning 'Really really big Wolpertinger out for revenge against those that disrespect their kin' or 'Wow, I thought you'd be used to my weird sense of humor by now.' Also, stop pretending you don't know what things like mecha are. We've literally fought a half dozen different types of them. I have a spell that summons one when I need to lift stuff.... That said, I guess Constructigger is more recognizable and funnier. Never mind."

Pressi does back Murphy up against Hobie. "First, I'm allowed to talk a certain way to Murphy because I make up for it in the bedroom, and you should know I don't share. Second, I'm the reason Succotash got hurt and the reason we are wandering out here so stop blaming Murphy and be more mad at me. Third, Succotash seems to have gotten over the shadows and the forest, so take it down a notch.

"And fourth, I'm actually a lot more torn about these creatures than I maybe let on. Sort of connected to nature myself and all, though a little less so than the average witch. But while I don't appreciate the extra work, I respect it. Frankly, it wouldn't kill you to start expressing your feelings and softer side for a change."

Pressi settled down. "Besides, its almost over. We found the tracks, we found the burrow, our hunting party is almost done. And Murphy, you can calm down. We've fulfilled the mission and I think nature should be pleased. So, shall we all calm down and begin. Any suggestions on what to do next?"

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (full spells) 
Tuesday August 28th, 2018 3:29:43 PM
Zaragosa was a bit uncomfortable with the arguments going around. Being new, he couldn't decide if this was how the group always got things done, or if there was bad blood between the members. He would have spoken up in his usually over-the-top manor if he knew, but since he did not he would remain quiet and on the lookout.

He tries to keep watch, forgetting about looking for tracks.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Air Elemental AC/FF/T 29/22/19 CMB 12 CMD 27 
Tuesday August 28th, 2018 4:00:55 PM
Murphy laughs with Pressi's word etymologies, and appreciates the general tenor of what she has to say. "Thank you, Succotash, Pressi, and Hobie. Also Talia, for teaching us a new word, Jack for keeping a lookout, and Kezzem for tracking us down.

"Actually," he addresses Hobie, "you have in a way managed to point out to me that I have not yet sexed the wolpertinger. If it's female..." As he speaks, he kneels down to begin partially to untie the critter enough so he can determine its gender [which I am assuming is male]. After checking, he re-bundles him. "If male - ah, yes - we keep him. To keep my promise to the Culverwood, it should help to communicate with them on our journey back to our town. I can actually memorize speak with animals, and see if that works to communicate with them. I'm embarrassed to admit I don't have it at hand at the moment. That could help me know better what things to do to help them thrive.

"I suppose I am soft. But, I will help in the hunt. And hope we can get what we need while keeping four specimens alive. Might make upcoming conversations with them a little bit easier, despite that they are scheduled for dinner in a few days. Does that make sense to you, good archer? Later we can grab suitable cages in Emerald City for transport, and hire the help of a couple of river sailors for the trip home."

Approach ideas - add to these as you wish
With Pressi, and a suitable downwind distance from the target site that conversation will not be overheard, Murphy briefs the group on where the wolpertinger nest - flaggerdoot - is, and how they appear to be arrayed. "If someone can cast invisibility upon one of us who can fly, that one can get a better look without disturbing them overmuch... though smell may rile them up. Actually, I don't think in this form [air elemental] that I have any particular scent aside from normal air." He gives as wry a look as he can manage in his present form and adds, "Though some opinions on that may vary."

"Let's see if we might capture up to six of them, in addition to the one we have. That way, if some are female, then they can be returned once we've had a chance to check.

"I have two instances of baleful polymorph available. If I use it, I'll try to turn the wolpertinger into an armadillo." He describes what they look like. "When threatened, they tend to roll up into a ball. So, if you see one, then grab it up, before it tries to burrow away. Also have wind wall, which will keep them within one area for a little over a round or two, unless they fly up and over the 55' height. Though perhaps I should shape it so that there is at least one open area to channel them through as they try to escape.

"Mind the wee ones and their mothers! Please. I'll cast owl's wisdom [+4 wis 11 minutes] on myself, to help with polymorph. Here is a thought. Bliss, if I cast freedom of movement [110 minutes] upon you, and entangle a portion of the nest area, that might enable you to move within the area and do what you can do to some of the critters. If you like that - or if someone else thinks that they'd like to do that, then let me know. I have only one of each spell.

"I have available cat's grace [+4 dex 11 minutes], bear's endurance [+4 con 11 min.], barkskin [+4 enhancement to natural armor 110 min.] -- if any need one or more of those, speak up. I know calm animals [make docile and harmless 2d4+11 hd], but don't know if that would work on wolpertinger. Hmmm, actually, I can cast it twice. We could try it in our little guy here, just to see, or find out in the thick of things."

"Second to the last thought for the nonce. So that we do not raise a huge ruckus walking through the brush on our way to the site, I could carry maybe four of you in the air, and set you down near the nest.

Murphy retrieves a net from his dog Skipper. "We have eight more nets among us - say if you want one, and it's yours."

"Other ideas, friends?"

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17; HP 119/119, CMD 24 
Tuesday August 28th, 2018 4:39:52 PM
Kezzem has a conversation with himself.

"Hey Kezzem, there you are...we were afraid we lost you."

"Don't worry about it, Kezzem, I can take care of myself."

"All the same, Kezzem, I am glad you are okay."

"I appreciate it, Kezzem."

At Murphey's prompt for ideas, Kezzem ads "Turn them into a newt...they'll get better, right?"

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle)  d20+13=23 ; d20+22=34 ; d20+27=38 ; d20+34=48 ; d20=1 ;
Wednesday August 29th, 2018 12:17:42 AM

As a cat, Bliss uses his scent and hunting skills to sneak right up to the burrow.

Survival 23
Perception 34
Stealth 38

If he sees a bunnything, he jumps on it, like last time. What was that, a grapple check? Bliss rolls acrobatics to avoid an AoO and then an attack:

Acrobatics 48
Attack: rolls a nat 1.

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Wednesday August 29th, 2018 5:17:22 AM
Succotash holds back,as he doesn’t want the noise of his armor to give away his position, but he is ready with his net in case one comes his way.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+20=21 ; d20+14=33 ;
Wednesday August 29th, 2018 8:10:19 AM
Talia seeing her chance to be an active participant in this chase, casts both Invisibility &
Fly on herself, and tries her best to stay above CatBliss by about 10 feet, hovering waiting to drop a tanglefoot bag on the flaggerdoot when they emerge!

[Skills: Perception: 21 (NAt 1) & Fly: 33]

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 89/94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23  d20+24=43 ;
Wednesday August 29th, 2018 11:50:32 AM
Pressi looks around for some shadows. If she finds some, she grabs a net and Hides in Plain Sight. (Stealth 43)

Otherwise, she prepares to cast Deep Slumber on the burrow entrance (DC 20).

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Air Elemental AC/FF/T 29/22/19 CMB 12 CMD 27  d20+29=32 ;
Wednesday August 29th, 2018 2:32:09 PM

[Wolpertinger don't tend to burrow. Antlers, right?]

Murphy casts owl's wisdom (+4 wis), and heads to the nest, to see what there is to do. If he sees what he thinks might be a male hopper, he casts baleful polymorph on it, changing it into an armadillo [Fort save DC 27 or change form; Will save DC 27 or lose several abilities: but keeps HD]. He is at a height of 30 feet.

"Capture, don't kill!" Murphy reiterates in the halfling tongue.

Perception: 32

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Air Elemental AC/FF/T 29/22/19 CMB 12 CMD 27  d20+29=32 ;
Wednesday August 29th, 2018 2:32:09 PM

[Wolpertinger don't tend to burrow. Antlers, right?]

Murphy casts owl's wisdom (+4 wis), and heads to the nest, to see what there is to do. If he sees what he thinks might be a male hopper, he casts baleful polymorph on it, changing it into an armadillo [Fort save DC 27 or change form; Will save DC 27 or lose several abilities: but keeps HD]. He is at a height of 30 feet.

"Capture, don't kill!" Murphy reiterates in the halfling tongue.

Perception: 32

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Wednesday August 29th, 2018 4:32:27 PM
When they arrive at what they believe is the Wolpertinger burrow, Hobie draws his bow and looks down into the hole.
Get your nets ready guys, I'll drive them out into the open

Using his Imbue Arrow ability, he fires an arrow with the Obscuring Mist spell down into the burrow. He is hoping this will cause the Wolpertingers to flee the burrow.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Wednesday August 29th, 2018 4:32:27 PM
When they arrive at what they believe is the Wolpertinger burrow, Hobie draws his bow and looks down into the hole.
Get your nets ready guys, I'll drive them out into the open

Using his Imbue Arrow ability, he fires an arrow with the Obscuring Mist spell down into the burrow. He is hoping this will cause the Wolpertingers to flee the burrow.

DM Carl - The Snipe Hunt Continues 
Wednesday August 29th, 2018 10:07:56 PM
Apologies in advance for the low effort post I'm about to throw at you. I'm sitting in a crappy hotel room in Atlanta between wife and daughter on the eve of the eve of her heart surgery. I've driven all day, but by golly I'm not gonna be on my report.

***

Pressi and Murphy have done their tracking, and their work was correct.

Humble's Sword has made solid preparations, but in the end these are simple creatures who are just no match for them. Pressi's deep slumber spell alone is enough to make capturing them trivial.

The Culverwood spoke true: there are very young wolpertingers in the nest. All told, not including the one already captured, there are 3 adult females, 4 adult males, and 5 newborns.

DM Carl - The Snipe Hunt Continues 
Wednesday August 29th, 2018 10:07:56 PM
Apologies in advance for the low effort post I'm about to throw at you. I'm sitting in a crappy hotel room in Atlanta between wife and daughter on the eve of the eve of her heart surgery. I've driven all day, but by golly I'm not gonna be on my report.

***

Pressi and Murphy have done their tracking, and their work was correct.

Humble's Sword has made solid preparations, but in the end these are simple creatures who are just no match for them. Pressi's deep slumber spell alone is enough to make capturing them trivial.

The Culverwood spoke true: there are very young wolpertingers in the nest. All told, not including the one already captured, there are 3 adult females, 4 adult males, and 5 newborns.

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle) 
Wednesday August 29th, 2018 11:15:17 PM

Bliss is glad to have helped with the capture. "We take five adult males and we're good!" he says in halfling form. "Can we shadow walk back today or should we camp out overnight?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Air Elemental AC/FF/T 29/22/19 CMB 12 CMD 27 
Thursday August 30th, 2018 1:23:17 AM
"Good job, everyone. Great work!

"Bliss, that leaves the mothers and young with very little defense. I promised the Culverwood to take no more than four. How about this? We take three adult males, and the younger one we already have."

Murphy checks the sex of each critter, and asks for his friends' help in choosing which three adult males to bring along. Once decided, using the nets, and the 10' net rope about them, so they are secure, but can breathe, and are not more uncomfortable than necessary. Then suggests they leave the rest to their nest, and depart with as little additional stress on the poor critters as they can manage.

Once they are well away from the much-disturbed nest, Murphy adds, "And, when we get to town, I'm going to appeal to the wedding party - in private, well before the ceremony - to spare one of them, that I may return it to the forest. If they say no, it's all four, then I will not appeal further."

"How about these two options for travel?" He asks his friends. "Option 1: We hire river guides in Emerald City, and go by boat. Total? About 18 hours of water travel, say split into two days.
"Option 2: Pressi shadow walks, with most of the group, including one of the bunnies - maybe the younger one, back to our place just outside Humble's Ford. I fly over the other three, and meet you all there, with not too much time one way or the other in our respective arrival times."

===========
Notes for DM Carl: Murphy carefully marks from the above the territory where the group found the wolpertingers, for future reference. He knows that, after the trauma they introduced to the group, they may choose to move. But he wants to know how to get back to the same vicinity. He also gathers up some of the local fauna,

He checks on their well-being fairly frequently, pets them as well as he can through the netting, speaks soothingly to them in the Sylvan tongue. As the group travels, he will occasionally provide them water.

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Thursday August 30th, 2018 5:47:03 AM
“Hey Hobie, didn’t you say you had a scroll of teleport?”, Succotash asks, “ why don’t we send the critters ahead , along with whom ever wants to accompany them, and then the rest of us can follow using Pressi’s shadow walk spell”.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (full spells) 
Thursday August 30th, 2018 10:01:01 AM
(OOC Sorry for my lack of posting. I (a) don't have a lot of skills in this and (b) wait for the DM but then sometimes forget to check back.

As for the DM, I am grateful that you all were understanding when I had family issues, so I too understand that you have family issues. Family come first. respect and prayers for your wife)

Zaragosa tilts his head as he decided to speak his mind a bit more. "I don't want to risk shadow walk with our captured creatures. Succotash was hurt last time and I could barely handle that plane of existence. Now that we have our new 'pets', we should try hard not to lose them. I vote to go by boat.

"Also, Do we have to talk all of them? Do we need five, right? Can we leave the rest to take care of the newborn?"

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Thursday August 30th, 2018 11:00:34 AM
Rejoining the group, Talia will back up Mister Murphy, in whatever way he believes we shall ship the Flaggerdoot back.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Thursday August 30th, 2018 11:40:43 AM
"Yeah Sucker, I've got this scroll of teleport, but here's the thing, it can only bring the caster, which would have to be Talia unless someone else can cast fifth level spells, plus three extra creatures, of which I'd like to be one. We can bring as many OBJECTS as we can carry, but it's four willing creatures max."

Hobie pauses, and is careful to keep his voice calm, as he doesn't want to provoke a fight.

"I know some of you guys are real keen on keeping these things alive, but remember, we did catch them so that they could be somebody's dinner. If you'll just let me kill them, we can put them in my handy haversack and get them to the mayor in about 5 minutes. Then the rest of the group can take their time riding back on the river. And as I know you are worried about them not being uncomfortable Murph, trust me, I can make sure it's absolutely painless. One arrow each, they won't feel a thing, just a quick cessation of life.

But if we insist on keeping them alive until we get back home (where, let me remind you, we will then proceed to kill them) then it's gonna complicate things as they can potentially resist any forms of magical travel, be it Teleport, Shadow Walk, or anything else."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Thursday August 30th, 2018 11:53:51 AM
DM question (How many days has it been since we left? I'm kinda confused, but it seems like it's only been about 3 days or so, is that right? If it's been less than 10 days, I want to retcon my last post, but if it's been more than 10 days let my last post stand instead of this one. )

Yeah Sucker, I've still got the scroll of Teleport, but I don't think it's really necessary right now. The mayor gave us 14 days to get back with the Wolpertingers, so now that we have them, and still have plenty of time, I think we should take the conservative option and follow Murphy's suggestion of taking the boats back to town. We can always teleport if we get into trouble and are running up against the deadline.

I also just remembered that while the Mayor told us we needed to bring back 4 of these things,he said that a fifth would be nice to place on the ceremonial plate for his deceased mother. So I say we bring back a fifth as well."



Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 89/94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Thursday August 30th, 2018 1:58:51 PM
"I can't speak for the rest of us but I (or someone else) still have to head to Emerald City. You know, report a murder, show people the symbol, yada yada. I have no other opinions on travel, except that Talia is the only one who can cast fifth level spells. (Except me, but I presume I've been excluded because I'm needed to cast shadow walk.)

"I leave the particular mix up to you though I am pretty sure we can take one female instead of a male."



Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Air Elemental AC/FF/T 29/22/19 CMB 12 CMD 27 
Thursday August 30th, 2018 5:12:33 PM
[OOC: Nick: We left Humble's Ford two days and four hours ago, roughly.]

"Please, stay your hand, Hobie," Murphy intercedes.

"Right, Pressi. Emerald City is a couple hours travel from here. I'd like to get a cage, or cages."

At her suggestion to take one female, rather than a male, he concurs - so long as the female is not nursing young. If he can determine that to be the case, he is fine with that substitution, and helps effect it, for more than one reason.

To the group he says, "I agree it would be more convenient in some regards just to off these unique creatures. Yet doing so leaves fewer options open. Such as allowing the cooks to fatten them up for a week or so before their slaughter. These are very rare creatures. One of them, cooked, likely has about nine pounds of meat. Let one more remain with the nest. Please, let us take only three from this group, besides the young one we already have, for the sake of the remaining group's survival, as the Culverwood intends for this magical animal." Murphy restrains himself from saying more.

When all are ready, Murphy travels with them - presumably Emerald City-bound.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Air Elemental AC/FF/T 29/22/19 CMB 12 CMD 27 
Thursday August 30th, 2018 7:15:25 PM
Oh, and just before they leave the area, the druid marks a good-sized tree - oak, or yew, or the like. He places an airy hand upon it, moves all the way around it, and says in Sylvan, "Perhaps I'll see you soon."

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17; HP 119/119, CMD 24 
Thursday August 30th, 2018 11:21:45 PM
Kezzem gently places a net over a sleeping wolpertiger.

"Yea, I did something," he says without much enthusiasm. This hunting expedition has not been his forte,

DM Carl - The Snipe Hunt Continues 
Thursday August 30th, 2018 11:30:21 PM
Emerald City it is, then!

Murphy makes preparations to find this place again in the future. Assuming the nest stays put, Murphy's more than skilled enough to make sure his bearings are accurate.

There is some lingering disagreement about the status of the wolpertingers, but unless Hobie decides to go completely rogue and outright attack them over the objections of the others, they'll stay alive.

Regardless of how the party travels, the trip to Emerald City is uneventful.

***

I'm sorry, but I'm not sure how many days its been. If you can give me a few more days to get over this trip, I swear I'll be back to the DM you guys deserve.

ADM Kim - Time Lapse - coming up on 3 days in about 4 hours. 
Friday August 31st, 2018 1:09:20 AM
Carl - don't sweat this. You watch over your honey.
=================
Time since we left:
9am depart from Humble House
~11am arrive in Hovel. Discuss options
~Noon or early afternoon Murphy takes 45 minute round trip to talk to the Culverwood

Once the sun sets and twilight shadows begin, the group, via Pressi's agency, shadow walks to a place in the Culverwood forest. Despite a shadowy encounter on the way, they get there midnight-ish. Unknown to them at the time, they are about 10 miles west of Emerald City (we overshot - maybe the Culverwood helped us get in the right vicinity). After further consultation with the Culverwood, about 10am or so they leave their nice camp, and find 8 miles away from the city their first wolpertinger, an adolescent, some time before noon, as DM Carl states in the *snipped* quote from his post:

=======
DM Carl - The Snipe Hunt Continues
Friday August 24th, 2018 8:32:18 PM
... [capture of wolpertinger #1 by Bliss] ...
It is still before noon.
========

Further party discussion, general movement toward Emerald City, searching along the way, a nest of wolpertingers is found, a certain number taken. Time & distance unspecified by DM, but, perhaps one or two hours after the adolescent, so, say 1:30pm, maybe 6 miles from the city?

Some discussion after that. Heading toward Emerald City by 2pm. With mounts and other abilities, slowest movement 40, likely we'll arrive to the city at or before 4 o'clock in the afternoon.

By this evening at 7pm, it will be three (3) days since he had us to dinner, and afterwards asked us to go on this snipe hunt.

So, next DM post may have us coming in to Emerald City, about 4pm. Hi, elves!

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 89/94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23  d100=9 ; d100=46 ;
Friday August 31st, 2018 12:52:37 PM
(Ignore the d100 rolls. Not sure what happened there.)

As Murphy lays out all the factors and timetables, Pressi turned to the rest of the group. "This is why he's in charge instead of me," she remarked. "If I had to pay attention to this stuff, I'd calcify my brains out."

There isn't too much else to say. Pressi isn't inclined to take more of nature than required and "nice to have" for a centerpiece doesn't quite meet Pressi's view of "requirement." (Plus she already picked one battle and isn't ready for another.) She already said her piece about keeping them alive and is ready to do her best in that regard.

To the new guys especially, "Sorry that I didn't give you guys a chance. I'm still getting used to some of my newfound powers. But I'm sure you'll all have a chance to show us what you guys can do."

(OOC: What are the odds that Pressi "animal growths" one of the Wolpertiggers and sends it loose through the wedding. Make your bets now.)

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Friday August 31st, 2018 12:56:52 PM
So as I wrote in my retconned post, once I realized it's only been a few days, Hobie would not be at all interested in killing them yet. We have plenty of time and could definitely fatten them up for another week or so. He is however interested in taking a fifth as per the mayor's request.

"The forest really can't spare one more Wolpertinger for the wedding? They are magical beasts sure, but they are still just animals, come on."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Large (Huge) Air Elemental 
Friday August 31st, 2018 1:00:11 PM

"Kezzem, I almost chose newt, as you suggested!" Murphy tells the paladin. "Buck up, buddy. It'll get better. You got one! Well, not a newt."

As they travel toward the city, Murphy speaks up. "Look, friends, I know that some of you feel that I may be running roughshod over you. Honestly, that is not my intent. I really care about the purpose and success of our group. Yet I think I have not always been alert to what each of you are looking for.

"I do not want us to be at each other's throats. I may seem to some of you to be intransigent at times. Uh, that can mean stubborn, or can mean resolute. I can't promise to turn that around, presto change-o. But, I do want us to work together as a team. A reasonably unified team. I have no desire to be bullheaded. I do not wish to dictate, nor to be an autocrat. Where the group is concerned, I've nearly always tried to work hard, to encourage others, to hold high standards.

"One or more of you have mentioned Pressi for leadership. I concur. She's smart, innovative, knowledgeable.

"I'm not opposed to rotating leadership, or to particular domains of such.

"You may suppose that I will never stop planning, never stop looking out for the welfare of the Sword, and of those we serve to protect. Never stop trying to serve you, never stop trying to be an example in diligence and, as much as I can muster, in seeking wisdom in our ways.

"I mentioned purpose. Each of us needs to ask: 'Why am I a member of an adventuring group? And why this group, Humble's Sword? What are my aims? What are the group's aims?' Also, 'Is having one or more leaders a bad idea? Or does it have merit? If so, in what parameters?'

"Speak freely, friends. Bliss, and all, please tell me to my face your thoughts. Let's share with each other."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Large (Huge) Air Elemental 
Friday August 31st, 2018 1:07:32 PM
[Sorry - looks like I was finishing up my post as Pressi and Hobie posted. I've got to run in a couple minutes, but have time for this.]

"Hobie, now that we know where to find them, I can get all seven of us - with no mounts or extra animals - back to a spot about 150 yards from where we found them in under a minute from a tree near our place in Humble's Ford. If the mayor insists, after we have talked with him, on another, I am willing to get us back here. Recall, he said, 'It would be nice.' From one perspective, yes. From a bit larger perspective, I think no. And we'll blame it on me. I think, though, once he understands their rarity - and the Culverwood's pressback - he will concur. If I am wrong, then I owe you a whole banquet. I will gladly tell him of your generous heart."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Large (Huge) Air Elemental 
Friday August 31st, 2018 7:48:45 PM

Hey, I was wrong:
ONLY TWO DAYS SINCE DINNER WITH MAYOR

[sorry for the uppercase shout]

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (full spells) 
Friday August 31st, 2018 8:36:47 PM
Zaragosa will travel, again, mostly in silence. He tries to stay out of the discussions, especially about who is in charge. While walking he would ask either Succotash or Kezzem when he could catch one or both alone. "Do these debates happen often?"

(I wish I had more to do, sorry for all the short posts)

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Friday August 31st, 2018 9:14:42 PM
Succotash answers Jack, “Well in the short time I’ve been in the party, there have been a few of these conversations, however it’s easy to see that there is a general sense of respect and dare I say, love for each other, and at the end of the day, everyone really gets along swimmingly”.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+20=35 ;
Friday August 31st, 2018 9:54:11 PM
Talia, having cast Overland flight upon herself, will trail the group as they head to the E-City while scanning the area for impending danger...[Skills:Perception: 35]

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle) 
Friday August 31st, 2018 11:57:12 PM
Bliss is excited about seeing a real live elf city, and he keeps changing from cat to halfling and back each time he thinks of something to say.

"Will they have elf bears and elf flowers?"

"Are there real buildings or just tree houses everywhere?"

"I bet there will be lots of music! Good music!"

"None of us are dwarves, right? I hear they don't much like dwarves."

"Do you think that there will be anyone from the family that's my friends? I can show their crest around on my elfish lunchbox!"

DM Carl - The Snipe Hunt Continues 
Saturday September 1st, 2018 12:01:43 AM
Ah, Emerald City. What to know what a bunch of elves would do with their freedom after years of being kept impoverished by a green dragon? Well then our heroes are in the right place!

It's not exactly recent events, but the area's still coming into its own after the Emerald Dragons freed them.

...that's all well and good, but Emerald City is a fairly big place, and our diminutive heroes probably aren't well aquanited with the place. Still, one can always depend on the hospitality of elves, right?

Let's find out.

Walking out of the Culverwood, the city comes quickly into view. Elves on the outlying areas stop to observe a company of halflings in their midst. Pressi has business in town, though. Not outlying farms and whatnot. Let's see how she goes about it...

Meanwhile, our heroes really can't seem to agree on wolpertinger hunting, but is it reallllly that big of a deal? The mayor wanted 4 wolpertingers, he's getting 4 wolpertingers. He can get married without losing face, and immediately start neglecting his wife to deal with the very real danger hanging over the town with the Giant Tower being down.

More on that later, though. Pressi's gotta talk to some elves first.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Large (Huge) Air Elemental 
Saturday September 1st, 2018 3:46:44 AM

Murphy listens for the elven tongue. He speaks the language. He'll wait to see what Pressi might have to say.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17; HP 119/119, CMD 24 
Saturday September 1st, 2018 12:39:18 PM
"Kezzem, I almost chose newt, as you suggested!" Murphy tells the paladin. "Buck up, buddy. It'll get better. You got one! Well, not a newt."

"Thanks, Murph, I appreciate it," says Kezzem.

Murphey: "I mentioned purpose. Each of us needs to ask: 'Why am I a member of an adventuring group? And why this group, Humble's Sword? What are my aims? What are the group's aims?' Also, 'Is having one or more leaders a bad idea? Or does it have merit? If so, in what parameters?'

"Because we're a family," says Kezzem.

----

Zaragosa: "Do these debates happen often?"

"Friend, you have no idea," says Kezzem. "This is tip of the iceberg. We may bicker and argue, like a family, but as I said, that's what we are, a family."

----

Bliss: "None of us are dwarves, right? I hear they don't much like dwarves."

"We're all halfings, last I checked. Unless one of us is secretly a dwarf who shaved his beard and disguised him- or herself as a halfling! That's would be a fun surprise."



Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Saturday September 1st, 2018 3:02:56 PM
"We are most definitely a family. And make no mistake new friends, I might argue with ole Murph today, or Kezzem tomorrow, but if anyone hurts any one of you, he's getting an arrow in his trachea faster than he can blink."

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17; HP 119/119, CMD 24 
Saturday September 1st, 2018 10:04:37 PM
"Hey Bliss, I had a thought," says Kezzem, "What if the secret dwarf wasn't disguised as a halfling...but as a pig! Think about it, that's genius! Nobody suspects the pig!"

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Sunday September 2nd, 2018 3:45:53 PM
Over hearing Kezzem’s comment about Miss Piggy, Succotash pipes up, “That would be hilarious, I mean I was expecting a pony much like Rumpus, the first time I summoned my mount, when much to my surprise, and joy I might add, I got a pig, well if Piggy was actually a dwarven lass, well wouldn’t that be a great joke played on me by lord Pantheon!”

DM Carl - The Snipe Hunt Continues 
Sunday September 2nd, 2018 9:54:38 PM
Families...well, sometimes families are difficult to get along with. Every family has that crazy uncle, or the father who spouts off opinions from the political fringe, or the cousin whose interests deviate so completely from everyone else's that one has to wonder if there's an actual relation there.

When those families contain a bunch of capable adventurers, things can get heated. It's a good thing, then, that Humble's Sword is always so quick to acknowledge their...passionate disagreements and differences of opinion, and reaffirm that disagreements or no, they're still a unit that presents a unified front to the outside world!

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle) 
Sunday September 2nd, 2018 10:12:08 PM

Bliss laughs and turns to try his Dwarven on Miss Piggy. He stands open mouthed for a moment, then remembers that he does not even KNOW Dwarven! [OOC: Had to check my sheet, coulda sworn I did!]

"Wowsy, I gotta learn Dwarf!" he declares.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 89/94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Sunday September 2nd, 2018 10:33:50 PM
OOC: I could have sworn that an unavoidable encounter of a bunch of murdered people now undead with a prominent symbol would be an obvious hook for a sidequest, what with our team filled with paladins and roguelike spellcasters, etc. Clearly, I was mistaken and will wrap this up quickly.

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

Pressi basically goes into reporting mode. She tells the police about the bodies, symbol and divination. She pokes around quickly to see if she gets a hook. And she tries to give her condolences to the family.

Normally, a mystery like this would be hard to resist. Between her justicar abilities, her domain, her enchantment spells and her face and rogue skills, a sidequest like this is just what she was waiting for. A chance to match wits against suspects, break into filing cabinets, learn the shocking truths about victims... but hunting overhyped rabbits is important too.

Sensing the teams increasingly thin patience and knowing that they are already on a mission, she thus performs the minimum her job requires and gets back to the task at hand. Rest up, find ways to keep the rabbits alive, and prepare for the leisurely trip back.

As for whether they are family, you're not going to get an admission more than grudging "only sort of indifferent."

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17; HP 119/119, CMD 24 
Monday September 3rd, 2018 1:56:26 AM
"Heh, so that's how you and piggy met, Succo? I had Rumpus from before I was paladin. Well, technically, he was Murphey's, but I was riding him. He had a bunch of ponies, but who wouldn't want one named Rumpus? Anyway, I became a paladin later and kept him as my mount."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 Large (Huge) Air Elemental 
Monday September 3rd, 2018 3:17:42 PM
"A family of friends, no?"

Inspired somehow by Pressi's stories from the theater, Murphy asks, "But wait, what about all the detective stories where at some point it is declared, 'The pig did it!'?"

Murphy seeks a source of suitable traveling containers, cages for the animals. He also asks about druid in town, and whether

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (full spells) 
Monday September 3rd, 2018 5:24:26 PM
Zaragosa was amused how they went from arguing to making pig jokes. Since he spoke Elvish (and dwarven for that matter) he follows Pressi to see who she reports the information to.

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Monday September 3rd, 2018 7:20:55 PM
“Yup”, Succotash answers Kezzem with a smile, “I wanted to gain a mount, so I prayed to Pantheon, and then he showed me how to do the whole summon mount thing, and presto, Miss Piggy was there!”

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Monday September 3rd, 2018 8:49:53 PM
... Murphy asks about druids in town. He also asks if there is a shrine or temple dedicated to the spirit of the Culverwood.

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle) 
Monday September 3rd, 2018 10:59:53 PM
Bliss looks around wide-eyed. He is eager to see elvish sights.

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Tuesday September 4th, 2018 6:01:32 AM
Succotash joins bliss in his exploration of the city, and though he has seen many things in his travels, he is always empressed by the architecture and city planning of elves.

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18  d20+20=33 ;
Tuesday September 4th, 2018 12:03:33 PM
Talia, not wanting to get lost in such a big place, will join Mr. Slenderstick and Bliss in their tour, stp every once and again to make note of interesting places, shops, etc.

[Skills: Perception: 33]

DM Carl - The Snipe Hunt Continues 
Tuesday September 4th, 2018 12:29:21 PM
Humble's Sword is eager to take in the sights of Emerald City. They find a town in flux that will one day be a beacon of architectural beauty. For now, there's a lot of scaffolding.

Still, there's an energy in Emerald City. A city of humans probably would have rebuilt and moved on already, but elves know they'll be putting up with their mistakes for centuries and act accordingly. As such, no one is in a hurry to erase the past and move on. There's a mixture of fear and excitement present. The elves of the Emerald Kingdom are free to flourish, but after years of being protected by Parnoth, they are once again open to attack from the ignoble hordes of Izen. The kingdom's saviours, the Emerald Dragons, have been quiet for years. One can hope they continue working off the Wold's stage in ensuring the continued safety of these lands.

Pressi, however, has a job to do.

Locating a temple to the Southern Crones is unlikely, but finding the temple of Pantheon is not difficult. Her appearance is met with some weariness, but all that goes away once she makes her report. A fellow Justicar who introduces herself as Faraine takes her report. As they were in the shadow realm when they were attacked, it's impossible to provide a concrete location for them to investigate. They can at least narrow down the search area, though. Pressi is thanked for her time, then unceremoniously shown the door. They're not rude, just highly practical.

...and just like that, job's done. Locating druids, cages, etc. poses no real challenge. The party is free to explore if they wish, but they're doing so with four angry, snarling wolpertingers who spend their every waking moment gnawing away at whatever's holding them.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Tuesday September 4th, 2018 1:36:06 PM
Hobie is excited to be in the Emerald City, he's never actually been, but he knows how Elves love their archery, and he's thrilled to find people who share his passion.

Since we don't need to be back for 11 days, assuming that we will spend a few days here, Hobie is happy to indulge the group in whatever they would like to do here, but he wants to take some time for himself while they are here, perhaps while Pressi is asking around at the temples and talking with the Justicar.

Hobie would love to go find some sort of Archers Guild, and talk with the other archers, discuss theory, get some advice from Elves who have been shooting much longer than he has. He also plans to shop around and look at some of the beautiful Elven made bows, fill up his stock of arrows if one of the fletchers can make him some small sized arrows. Perhaps he might even test his skill against some of the Elves if the opportunity arises.

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle) 
Tuesday September 4th, 2018 11:53:51 PM
Bliss really enjoys the views, even under construction and renovation. And he wishes he had time to look up his elf friends, the ones who gave him his magic lunchbox.

But we do not have that time.

"Friends, we have these wild beasts. We need to get them back home. Please do let's be off first thing tomorrow, right after we prep spells and such."

"Maybe we can see more sights next time."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Wednesday September 5th, 2018 5:11:09 AM
Murphy takes all in that he is able. In addition to contact with those he mentioned [Note to DM: See Email for private message], he adds to his list the local WLA chapter. He asks whether they might help his group find lodging for the evening, and perhaps take advantage of the time to exchange information - and ask about a couple of contacts who are decent river guides (with sailor skills). He checks with J.T.T. Zaragoza as to whether he is still interested in financing the enclosures for the wolpertingers.

Primary focus, for wolpertingers: Suitable enclosures, perhaps solid metal (or something equally tough) on four sides, and metal mesh on front and back, with a small opening to place food and water within, and full opening gate for entry and exit, with a latching/locking mechanism to ensure that clever wolpertingers will not be able to free themselves.

With the metal encasing, he also looks for some tough leather lining within, so that they don't have to be in direct contact with metal, and a softer, layered bottom (perhaps a small blanket?) to allow rest. One cage per animal; something to allow them to be latched or strapped side by side and top to bottom. A typical configuration might be with cages numbered 1 through 4, 1 is on top left, 2 on top right, 3 on bottom left, 4 on bottom right, as one faces the front of the cage. Alternatives include all side by side, and all top to bottom.

There should be enough space to accommodate antlers, body, wings, and allow animal to curl up. Before placement within, figure out a suitable wrap so that antlers are protected, and don't get stuck in cage door mesh. The druid's concern is for security, relative comfort. Murphy also seeks multiple animal bladders which he spends time figuring out how to attach to either individual or grouped cages. He strings them together, and uses netting to help affix them. Should the group return by boat, and should something happen to cause a capsizing or sinking, he wants to ensure secured animals and their cages do not sink. AND - he looks for suitable food for them, provides water to drink. On full stomachs, perhaps that will help calm them somewhat. He speaks calmly with them in the sylvan tongue, and tries to gauge their reaction to that - do they seem to understand at all?

Murphy will also clean up messes they make - or ask Talia to cast prestidigitation to do so. Once they are transferred into the cages and fed, Murphy uses mending to repair the damage done to the nets, as it is possible they will need at some point again to be wrapped with them.

Spellstaff tonight, Transport Via Plants stored in the morning
The druid checks as to whether a halfling sling staff might be used as a recepticle for the 6th-level spell Spellstaff. If so, he casts spellstaff on his slingstaff. If not, he buys a halfling-sized quarterstaff (at 20gp, right?), and casts spellstaff on this new staff. In the morning, he makes available the Transport Via Plants spell, then casts to store it in his spellstore staff.

=============

Bird Mail
On a strip of paper, Murphy writes neatly and concisely:
To Mayor Bumbleluck: Captured alive 4 wolpertingers: 3 adults (2 male, 1 female); 1 adolescent (male). Now in Emerald City. Should return within 2-4 days from [today's date]. Ask Foreman George to prepare As Soon As Possible at our new compound a four-compartment metal cage with four 8'Lx8'Wx6'H segments, a door for each, 1' dirt over solid stone flooring for containment. Ask help from Primula PipeLeaf if needed. Greetings to all. Pray for our safe journey home. -Murphy B. Leafwin Pipewood of H.S.
He carefully wraps the message in a strip of leather which he folds lengthwise to enclose the paper, then invokes his bird feather token, wraps and ties the message carefully to one leg of the bird, and directs it to deliver the message to Mayor Bingo Bumbleluck of Humble's Ford. He launches it into the air towards Humble's Ford.

==============

Time with friends, and those of Emerald City
If WLA representatives will meet with them either that evening, or at breakfast the following morning, Murphy lets his friends know, and suggests they gather together for exchange of information. Though he would love to spend a night on the town, he is rather concerned to oversee the welfare of the animals, and barely lets them out of his sight for more than a moment or two as necessary - then ensures someone else from the group is watching over them should he need to be absent for a short period.

He will happily spend time with any who are willing to hang close by, though.

If any outside the group ask him about their intentions with the animals, he tells them that they have been assigned to retrieve them. He really does not think it anyone's business who asked, nor what they intend to do with these four. He communicates his intent to study them as much as he is able, and to do what he can to ensure that this type of animal continues to have the ways and means to survive and thrive as a species within the Culverwood.

Hired river guides?
If via contacts, the group has been able to hire two river guides, and, should the group agree to leave in the morning after breakfast (per Bliss's suggestion) (and all shopping & other activities concluded): With conveyance available, Emerald Kingdom to Troll would take ~6.03 hours; Troll to Trader's Corner ~3.02 hours; T.C. to Hovel ~4.23 hours - unless obstacles, etc. pop up.

How is the group with this plan? Murphy is OK with it, but also would be OK with up to one more day in the Emerald Kingdom, if others so desire.

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Wednesday September 5th, 2018 5:46:21 AM
After a brief tour of the city, Succotash heartily agrees with Bliss’s desire to get back with the wolpertingers, and after a good nights sleep is ready to head out.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 89/94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Wednesday September 5th, 2018 10:05:31 AM
"It just gets so frustrating," she tells Zaragosa on the way out. "I know that its an organization of the book and by the book but they must realize how much quicker they could solve the mystery if they just left it in my hands. You know its because they don't respect me or trust me yet.

"And look, I get I'm the oddball in an oddball organization. I'm not a divine. I'm not a wilderness fighter. I'm not technically a lawful follower of a normal god or even a normal halfling. I look and fight and figure out stuff a lot less like them than like the guys they track. I get that. But if they aren't going to cut me loose, the least they can do is treat me as if I wasn't a joke."

Pressi calmed down to the best that we could. "If I was less of a coward, I'd take you around the city and we'd probably have no problems figuring out the murderer ourselves. Frankly, I don't think I'm ever truly going to be able to let this go. But I care about what other people think of me, and we've got our own separate mission, so fine. Let them handle it." She sighed. "Would have been nice to lean on at least one bartender, though."

Aside from that, there isn't much else Pressi wants to do in the city, and her teammates have everything else in hand. As Bliss said, its probably going to be a good idea to get moving in the morning, and its probably going to be a leisurely boat ride back. (Even if she wanted to argue for shadow walk again, 1) they now have too many creatures, and 2) some of her teammates seem unwilling to stomach the trip again.)

She does share with Zaragosa (and maybe some others) that this mission, centered around an upcoming wedding, has brought up some feelings about her own relationships and possible future. "So, how about you? Any thoughts about whether you'd ever get married or start a family?"

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17; HP 119/119, CMD 24 
Wednesday September 5th, 2018 10:37:24 AM
Kezzem checks in with the local temple of Gargul. If there isn't one, then he heads to the cemetary and constructs a simple shrine and prays to Gargul to watch over the dead.

DM Carl - The Snipe Hunt Concludes! 
Wednesday September 5th, 2018 2:02:48 PM
Finding a perfect set of cages for the wolpertingers that match his exact specifications is unlikely, but they're able to find four sturdy steel cages that should survive even wolpertinger fangs for a few days. Finding additional leathers to provide them some comfort is also well within the means of Humble's Sword.

(OOC: Regarding these kinds of purchases, I tend to address it in a way similar to how White Wolf games use the resources perk. You guys are 11th level heroes. You've secured thousands of gold worth of treasure for yourselves. You can afford some cages and leather. Were this a first level game, I would likely make you account for how you're paying for them. I for one don't enjoy nit-picking my own character's ledger, and don't expect you folks to either. So long as you don't abuse this, I'm content to hand-wave away these minor purchases.)

Murphy is able to ensure some comfort for the doomed wolpertingers. It doesn't seem to make them happy, but they'll probably appreciate not drowning. Mayor Bumbleluck should know if a few hours that their mission was successful.

He finds his spellstaff spell sticks to his sling staff just fine. Handy, that.

Meanwhile, Bliss is keen to leave soon. Druids may not mind constantly snarling companions, but they really should get the things home soon.

Hobie would love to spend more time here, and perhaps someday he may. Finding quality fletchers and skilled archers in a town of elves is not difficult. They remain unimpressed, mostly since elves will be elves. Still, Hobie's charm and skill with his own bow manage to ellicit some nods as the elves reconsider his worth. He finds plenty of arrows that would fit his quiver, should he wish to purchase more.

Succotash enjoys the sights, but is in agreement with Bliss to leave tomorrow morning.

Kezzem does indeed find a temple of Gargul that is much different than what is typically associated with the god of death. The elves here seem to have chosen to embrace the life aspect of the god of life and death. His temple can only be described as verdant. It is an open air affair with a thick layer of grass as the carpet (check your shoes at the door...or at least you would if you weren't a halfling). The seating and altar are all living trees shaped into chairs, pews, and an altar as they grew, and many budding branches can be seen growing from them. The priests of the temple are thrilled that a paladin of their god has come to pay a visit, and Kezzem is immediately given an audience with their high priestess, Maeraddyth Gael. "Our lord has dark days ahead," she says, some worry darkening an otherwise flawless face. "Keep your faith, little one. Lord Gargul will need all his servants for what lies ahead." She refuses to elaborate further on what could possibly be going on.

...and then there's Pressi, who is not happy. No one can argue that she is not a tireless seeker of justice, nor can one argue that she is not more than capable in the role. Her method of practicing her craft is just...unsettling to some, especially here in the Northern Continent. Worship of the Crones is common on the bottom of the Wold, but here it's unheard of. Add to that the fact that she tampers with raw Woldsblood (especially after that bloodweed nightmare), and it's almost understandable that some would be wary of her.

Almost.

All that said, she finds her treatment by Faraine to be fair and pleasant, though it is pretty concise. She understands Humble's Sword is engaged, but asks Pressi to look her up should she ever return to the Emerald Kingdom.

***

Murphy finds that there is minimal prescense of the WLA in Emerald City. Such an organization would never have been allowed here while Parnoth reigned, and the elves are in no greater hurry to construct their new headquarters here than they are to complete the rest of their many construction projects. The party is able to identify several members of the WLA in the general population, though none have any insight into local chapters.

***

The next morning, a guide is hired to take the party down river towards home. Pressi is correct in her assessment that the live wolpertingers make shadow walking back with them impossible. Murphy's cartography skills prove spot on as usual, and the party finds themselves in Hovel later that evening. It would have been an exceedingly pleasant trip had these bloody wolpertingers not spent every moment snarling at you. Leaving for Humble's Ford immediately would put the party in town at around midnight, so lodging is instead secured for the evening in Hovel...which really does not deserve it's name. It's a quaint, pleasant little town.

An early start the next day puts our heroes back in their beloved Humble's Ford at midday. Mayor Bimbo meets the party at the edge of town; he must have been keeping an eye out for you since he received Murphy's note. He smiles sadly at the sight of the angry wolpertingers (seriously, how long can these things stay angry?). "Well folks, looks like my last hope of getting this wedding called off just fell victim to your abundance of competance."

The next couple of days are a whirlwind of activity as the entire town prepares for the closest thing Humble's Ford is ever going to get to a royal wedding. The wolpertingers are taken by the bride's family as soon as the party makes it back into town. Maybe some of our heroes are glad to be rid of them. Maybe some of them will miss their savage ways (they were pretty cute when they were sleeping).

Kezzem is walking along one day when a pebble beans him in the head. Looking over, Candy BadApple and her crew start motioning him over from their resting spot on top of a nearby hill. Her crew can be found kicking back, looking up at the party's newly constructed tower. "You folks done real well buildin' this," she starts. "Yea!" shouts another. "Them elementals play in it all day, I never..." He is shut up by a light kick from Candy. The look on her eyes is unmistakable: I am telling the story here. He gets the picture. She continues.

"It's pretty, and we've been content to sit here for days watchin'...but there's a weddin' coming up, and you needs to do us a favor. Getting kicked out and sneakin' back into the last party we threw was the most fun we've had in months. Then Mr. Murphy went and got everyone actin' all responsible." The word seems to hurt to say.

"Anyways, we need you to tell Murph to let us have our fun this time, k?" She plucks an apple from the tree and tosses it to Kezzem before shooing him off. They have elementals to watch...

***

Tomorrow's post will be the mayor's wedding. The post after that will be the aftermath. The last post of the week will start our new module. You were given significant downtime after the bloodweed event, so I won't be providing much since this was more interlude than module. Three in-game days will pass between returning to Humble's Ford and the next module starting.

I am awarding 10k XP for completing your mission with the wolpertingers alive. I will entertain any hero point nominations anyone would like to make (nominating yourself is absolutely acceptable).

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 6  
Wednesday September 5th, 2018 5:20:25 PM
Back home, Hobie is happy to sleep in his comfy bed. He makes sure to bring his lute to the wedding party and asks Succotash to bring his drums. Maybe they can do some jamming during the festivities.

Housekeeping-wise, Hobie will take the days off from adventuring and scribe some scrolls,
4 scrolls of Waterbreathing

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) (full spells) 
Wednesday September 5th, 2018 7:42:38 PM
(sorry AGAIN for missing yesterday. I will endeavour to do better)

To Murphey "By financing you mean make sure they are locked up? I would love to be useful to you, and I am good at tying knots. I have not done much this trip so I will stand by and watch over these critters all night if you wish me to! I will work hard to keep them from escaping!"

Since he was following Pressi he took the time to get to know her and listened to her story respectfully, "I know a little of what you mean. I am not a thief, yet I have the skills. I studied bardic spells, but I cannot sing. I'm just a man who entertains. This group seems to be full of oddballs, which is good because then the two of us fit in. I want to let you know, that I trust you, for what that is worth.

"Perhaps we could convince the others to stay one more night in this city? I would love to look around more and perhaps both of our skills combined can solve some of this problem. I speak elvish so I won't get in the way. If that doesn't work, we should come back here once we deliver the strange rabbit things. I am here at your aid. Whatever I could do to help"

"As for me, I'm not sure marriage or family is in the cards. I haven't given it too much thought but I never knew my family. I feel I wouldn't know how to be a husband nor father since I have no examples. I guess I am still finding what other purposes I could have. An entertainer or perhaps adventurer? What about you, Pressi ? What are your thoughts? does your future have you as someone's spouse?"

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18 
Wednesday September 5th, 2018 10:44:29 PM
Talia, having basically been meandering behind the group, would like to know if there is a place she can place her assorted collections of stuffs. Asking Mister Murphy, "If there some corner of this expansive compound, I might be able to claim for a bit? For my stuffs, and to house Rayya while I'm about?"

As Talia lays no claim to heritage within the Crescent Valley, but knowing she is of Halfling descent, she will meander within the limits of Humble Ford to get a feeling the customs of the place and especially for the appropriate decorum for the wedding.



Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, touch AC 17; HP 119/119, CMD 24  d20+14=26 ;
Wednesday September 5th, 2018 11:20:59 PM
Kezzem attempts to Sense the Motive of Candy BadApple and her crew. He will also try it the paladin (i.e., detect evil).

Sense Motive: 26.

If everything seems on the up-and-up, he approaches Murphy:
"Everyone's been working hard getting are new base up and running. Maybe we should let the locals have a bit more...fun...at the wedding. Might be good for town morale."

If he otherwise Senses mischief or Detects ill-intent, he also approaches Murphy:
"Young Miss BadApple and her crew are lookin' to stir up trouble at the wedding. Best be on the lookout for them."



Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Thursday September 6th, 2018 12:00:32 AM

In the morning Murphy casts the spell transport via plants to store in his spellstaff. Well, spell-slingstaff.

"Thank you, Jack!" Murphy responds to the offer to help watch over the animals, so he can get some sleep, especially on the last leg of the trip home. During part of the trip, he wildshapes and catches some fish to feed to the wolpertingers, trusting that may calm them somewhat. He does ask to stop for 15 minutes at Traders Corner, which is on the way, as the pub next to the docks there is the only place in the area that sells Brock's Best Beer (250gp a barrel). He buys a barrel as a gift for the wedding party, and some carrots from a local for the bunnies to crunch on and cleanse their palate as they near the end of the trip.

Pipewood family growth in Hovel
He learns in Hovel that his sister-in-law, Airin, bore two days ago not one, not twins, but triplets! A girl, and a boy, and another girl, each one distinct. The labor was hard, but Airin came through with the help of the midwives. He rejoices with his family. As the children are small, they are undergoing special care, so they cannot see them as of yet. Murphy promises to come back when he can to see them when he can do so proper. Brother Kendry says that they are waiting on a naming day for a short time, and will invite all who care to come at that time. Murph tells everyone in the group the news.

A Place for Talia
"Of course, Talia, you are now one of us. There is a place for you in the Humble House, as well as in the big rock building. Pressi can show you about, and help you pick a suitable spot. Rayya is welcome wherever she chooses to perch. I love owls."

Druid Stuff that's important to Murphy, but maybe nobody else (Bliss & Kezzem and anyone else - feel free to skip this section - wait for the next underline)
When back in Humble's Ford the bride's family comes into sight, he turns briefly, casts a quick owl's wisdom, and, before they can lay full claim to the wolpertingers, Murphy stands in front of the creatures, and introduces the members of Humble's Ford, and last, himself. "We brought these back. I spoke with the Culverwood about these furry, feathery beasts. That great power was reluctant to have us go for them, and wanted to protect them. Quite amazing creatures, fierce and lovely, these wolpertingers. Before we turn them over to you - forgive me for not simply handing them to you directly - but, could you tell me, briefly, of the origins of this nuptial custom?" He awaits their reply. Should they tell him, he thanks them genuinely.

He asks if he might speak with them privately before the animals are removed. If they accommodate this request, he says: "These are rare beasts, indeed, and magical, and the symbolism of your customs are rich. May I make a request? All traditions have roots. Some change over time. We risked our lives on our way to capture them. One of us almost died. So, here is my request. One of these creatures has perhaps eight pounds of edible meat, aside from antlers, bones, feathers, organs, and offal. That leaves a fair amount to eat."

"So that this species might last, I have a need to study them. In order that the Culverwood would not oppose us in this hunt, I made a promise to that Power, in whose shadow we dwell. That is, to ensure the survival of this species.

"Though it be a slight alteration of your tradition, what if you were to take only two of the creatures to serve at meal - one for bride and groom, one for the three living parents to share together? That would leave two for study, and eventually return to the wood to breed, so that more are born over time." If they seem resistant to that notion, he then presents this alternative. "Perhaps, then, one for the bride and groom to share, one for the mother and father of the bride, and one for the father of the groom? That would leave me one, at least, to care for, and study." Should they yield on either of these requests, he promises another wedding celebration offering popular among some families in the Crescent Valley. "It's called, and is, 'Brock's Best Beer'."

If necessary, he will push lightly at least for his last proposal, that one survive - preferably the adolescent. If they will allow two to survive, then he suggests the female and adolescent be spared, and offers to name an area where a new nest of wolpertingers might eventually be planted in honor of their family.

If they appear indecisive he does add, "If you need time to think this over for a few minutes, please, take your time, talk it over among yourselves."

Should the matter come up, he insists, "No, the groom did not ask this of me. This is I, a druid, asking for the welfare of the species, so that, perhaps, future couples might be able to enjoy a similar feast."

If they are insistent that all four be slaughtered, then he says, "Life includes a series of negotiations - of occasionally mutual yielding one to another. My desire is not to oppose your traditions. I do wish you and your family well, and that the union of these two houses be fortuitous, and a blessing for you and yours, and for us and ours. Perhaps, though you have turned down both options, at some time in the future, should I ask a favor, you might be open. Should you change your mind at all in this matter we presently discuss, I shall hold you in even higher esteem. My prayers for you all," and he gestures to include the bride's family and the locals, "as two families unite!" He will then turn and walk away.

Murphy realizes, depending upon which way things go, he could be setting himself up for conflict with the mayor's bride. Not his desire, but, it could happen.

[WHAT ARE THE NAMES of the FATHER & MOTHER of the BRIDE, of the BRIDE HERSELF, and of any other significant people accompanying them?]

==============

Aside on the Air Elemental Tower
Murphy is happy to see that it looks ready, or at least nearly so. He will have to get closer to find out for certain. He may pass by his house to learn more, first.

Apples
Murphy will listen to Kezzem's counsel regarding the BadApples. "What'd they say? or, do?"

Shiney new place
"Look at all this!" he says to Pressi, and all, as they arrive back at their place just outside town. Pretty much everything is up, and according to plan. "Amaaazing!" He takes time to thank Foreman George and his crew.

Viewpoints
"Hey, Press, let's climb your tower!" he suggests. Being a gentlehalfling, he lets her go ahead of him. And enjoys the view from the climb. He telepathically lets her know that he spots some very attractive buns on the way up. He prepares to defend himself against being thrown down the spiraling stairway, laughing. As they ascend further, he looks around, noting the rooms on different levels. At the top, he takes her by the waist and swings her about. "This is your place, Pressi. Your tower! You can do whatever you want here! And the walkway up top scoots over to the big castley-rock." From their vantage point, he looks over the grounds. Right now the shrines are merely framed areas, awaiting the touches and features and decor which will render them proper places to honor the many powers that be, once they are suitably dedicated.

"So, babies born in Hovel. A wedding here in Humble's Ford," Murphy comments as he leans over the wall. He glances over to this bright, unusual, brave hobbit whom he has come to appreciate much. He licks his finger, and says, "You've got a spot on the tip of your nose," and he touches her there with the damp finger, "that is a little wet now." He teases her a little more, then grows a bit more serious.

"I know I get obsessed with some things. I know that some folks do not fully appreciate your multitudinous talents. To me you are a marvel. Despite getting annoyed with me from time to time - how would you feel if I asked: Would you like to spent the rest of your life with me, that we might entertain one another with our mutual quirks? And, maybe, add some more potential adventurers to the Wold?" He pauses, then continues gently, "You do not have to answer now. Think it over, Press."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85 
Thursday September 6th, 2018 12:19:51 AM

Just a reminder, the Sanctuary of Humble's Sword (or Humble House, or...) can be looked at here.

Bliss | CatBliss (Touch AC27, AC32, HP109) (Cayzle) 
Thursday September 6th, 2018 12:49:27 AM

As the group travels, Bliss finds himself developing some measure of affection for the angry beasties.

In other words, Bliss likes wolpertingers for their savage ways.

:-)

Back home, Bliss checks in with his coven and sees how progress is going at the new Humble House.

He is looking forward to the wedding. Well, more precisely, to the wedding cake!

Succotash and Miss Piggy (Jeremy) AC26/touch13/flat25 CMD26 - HP 102/102, Piggy AC27/touch11/flat26 CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, electricity 5 
Thursday September 6th, 2018 5:36:55 AM
Succotash tells Hobie, that he loves the idea of jamming at the wedding reception, and brings his drum along. He says, “I think I’ll name my drum Bonham”. At the wedding, he makes sure to congratulate the mayor and his soon to be in laws, and offers up a prayer for the 2 families, that they may be united and content.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22, HP 89/94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 23, HP 61, CMD 23 
Thursday September 6th, 2018 1:36:28 PM
In response to JTT's suggestion, she laughs at the thought of doing the investigation on their own, but she knows they aren't going to actually do it. She does assure him that oddballs (mechanically and personality) thrive in this environment.

Pressi is actually caught off guard at JTT asking her back. Or maybe not. She must have known that she'd have to answer the same question in return, and yet was unprepared.

"I... don't know. I guess I kind of put marriage or even staying in one town for long out of my head for a while. Kind of spent a lot of time on my own. Seemed the best for all concerned. Also, I'd kind of spent a lot of time trying not to be just the 'love interest' healer role that our fans seem to expect. I guess if the time ever came, I figured I'd be ready... sorry, I'm rambling about nothing. Probably would feel different if the mayor wasn't dragging his feet. I just... really haven't had the time to work any of this out or talk about it.

"At any rate, I've got plenty of time. Murphy isn't even thinking about getting serious, either."



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