DM Kathy Thursday October 25th, 2018 10:18:29 PM
[Everybody take 93,000 XP for the previous scene. I'll do Hero Points over the weekend; feel free to remind me about it. :) ]
You decide to take the Lionfish directly to Clowder Bay, dispatching Fortune's Tide with the freed slaves and a handful of (somewhat) repentant slavers.
Rill, Aexana, and Jozhur are back from the Catacombs, though I don't know where the transactions stand over on the board.
Your business done, here, you set sail, heading for Clowder Bay. Aexana goes beneath the waves to scout, while Rill works out what kind of Divination questions to ask. The remainder of the day is uneventful, and Tula takes in some sail so you can continue safely by night, navigating by the stars.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) Thursday October 25th, 2018 10:56:23 PM
Terser enjoys the night breeze and sits on with Rill to figure out some divinations. Maybe something like "how many allies does lifebb have in clowder bay?"
(MikeK)Bralin (AC36 / T14 / FF31) CMD 35 - HP 157/176) SR 25 vs evil Friday October 26th, 2018 5:18:31 PM
Bralin stews awhile, but eventually give Jozhur a nod. "Aye," he responds ruefully.
The dwarf retreats to his first love, and spends the next couple of days carefully carving on a piece of stone.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) Friday October 26th, 2018 8:00:10 PM
In between divinations, Terser quietly observes Bralin as he works, inquiring as to what he's carving and what types of stone he prefers.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141+12temp+24temp/144 Friday October 26th, 2018 11:15:01 PM
(OOC: Tahni in-game has made a CC run from the teleport, but we haven't finalised the loot list yet si hasn't been the the CC board)
As night starts to fall Tahni begins casting a Scrying spell to see if she can pinpoint the location of Lifebb a little better.
Cast Scrying. First Hand knowledge (having met him) and some of his blood = Will DC32 to resist/negate If the save fails, she can see and hear the subject and its surroundings (approximately 10 feet in all directions of the subject).
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Sunday October 28th, 2018 7:18:04 PM
(Aexana didn't go to the CC yet - haven't done the math yet to see how much we ended up with and I haven't gone through all mails... sorry)
Aex keeps to her seascouting while the ship sails on - but she also needs her sleep and meditation time so she won't be in the water at all times. When she sleeps, Leafy stands guard... after all... plants don't need sleep...
Actually it feels great to be able to spend some lazy time... of course it is just the calm before the storm yet the little greenmage enjoys her time beneath the waves. Down there it's a world without frontiers...
On the first day of travel, Zeoll casts his Guiding Star spell to keep the ship on course. That evening, Zeoll tells tales of the Fey Lord, and hopefully inspires everybody as they prepare to face the cult. (+2 on your first save of the day).
That night before bed, he thinks about Clowder Bay and tries to gain some inspiration from his dreams: How can he tell the cultists from innocents?
He helps to set the course for the ship (Others please feel free to help!) Profession Sailor 21
The morning before the vessel is due to arrive, he checks in with his good friend and lieutenant Fraweol via telepathy. He passes on messages for Tula and arranges for the standard long-duration support spell array and whatever honey he has managed to procure. That's Water Breathe, Extended Darkvision, Extended Protection from Arrows, and Extended Nondetection. As the ship gets near, he calls Drini and gifts her with honey and the Cloak of the Manta Ray. As the town comes in sight, he casts Mage Armor on himself, Drini, Leafy, and whoever else needs one. Then he sounds his horn, about a half hour out.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d100=58 ; d100=21 ; d100=32 ; Sunday October 28th, 2018 10:05:07 PM
Rill is worried. The defeat of the Bloodkin went well, which always makes him a bit worried,
"You know, I had a hard life with hard choices before I joined the Black Lions. My friends, things have generally gone well since then, and that makes me nervous. Maybe I should just accept that as evidence that Gargul is directing my footsteps in the right path since then. But let's see what we can find out about this Dekkar guy."
Rill casts Divination, asking ""How many allies does Lifebb have in clowder bay?" (rolled a 58 - success!)
Then, following Tahni's lead, Rill also casts Scrying to view this Dekkar Lifebb. Since we have met him and likely have some of his possessions from his things aboard, the DC should be a DC 26 Will save. Rill will also Detect Magic (21% - success!) and Detect Evil (32 % - success!) to learn more.
Depending on what is seen and learned, Rill will follow this with a Commune spell.
DM Kathy d20+21=38 ; Sunday October 28th, 2018 10:16:03 PM
During your journey, Bralin returns to his first love, carving. Terser drops in from time to time to check on his progress.
Aexana enjoys scouting underwater, returning to the Lionfish each night to sleep. Leafy stands guard overnight.
Tahni attempts to scry on Dekkar Lifebb, but isn't able to get anything. [Will save 38.]
Zeoll tries to dream an answer to the question of how to tell innocent civilians apart from cultists. In his dreams, he sees himself talking to lots of different people. The exact words of the conversations are indistinct. Zeoll also checks in with Fraweol to get his spells cast. There is no need to pass messages to Tula; she is right here on the Lionfish with you. Drini arrives, cheerfully asking, "what did you do with all the dirt?"
That second day of sailing starts out reasonably sunny, but clouds gather throughout the day. By the time you reach Clowder Bay in the late afternoon, it is pouring rain. It's difficult to make out much of the village because of the heavy rain and fading light. You see a sturdy-looking dock, with a sailing ship tied up. Nearby, small fishing boats are pulled up along the rocky shore. A cluster of buildings sit on a slight rise above the shore. Beyond them, the hulking form of some kind of keep or castle is silhouetted against the cloudy sky.
DM Kathy d20+21=41 ; Monday October 29th, 2018 1:34:46 PM
[Rill posted at the same time I did.]
Rill casts Divination, asking ""How many allies does Lifebb have in clowder bay?" His answer: dozens.
Rill also tries his hand at Scrying, but comes up blank. [Will save 41]
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Monday October 29th, 2018 4:17:25 PM
(Wait, did we just pull up to Clowder bay in our own ship, the one that's probably widely known and going to cause instant alarm? Or are we in one of the pirate's ships?)
Fang peers out through the rain. "We should expect trouble. The priest that recalled will have warned them we were incoming."
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T14 / FF27) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Monday October 29th, 2018 6:55:46 PM
Bralin is working a head-sized hunk of white limestone as Terser approaches. The rock sits on a makeshift stand, and the dwarf has rolled out a set of high quality, and well used, stone working tools beside it.
"I wish to commemorate the kraken's attack," he notes. It is possible to make out the outline of a ship, and a blob next to it, but the work is still in its early stages.
The ship draws near Clowder Bay. Bralin stows his tools and the stone. There is work to be done.
"Most like he knows we are here," he notes in agreement with Fang. "A route that bypasses the village would avoid degrading our combat effectiveness with guards and the like."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday October 29th, 2018 7:02:14 PM
[b]"We could go to shore as animals again and see what we can learn? Or else,I'll can go ahead and scount things out. [b/]
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Monday October 29th, 2018 7:09:06 PM
Catching up on treasure distribution, Rill and Tahni are able to hand out:
Zeoll 36,560 gp, Lesser Metamagic Rod of Quicken, cloak of the manta ray, cloak of the manta ray
Jozhur 144,160 gp, +1 Dagger
Rillett 139,789 gp, dusty rose prism ioun stone, +1 Dagger, boots of striding and springing
Terser 98,730 gp,
Bralin 111,184 gp,
Aexana 133,983 gp,
Tahni 139,480 gp,
Fang 100,530 gp, cloak of resistance +5
"Captain Zeoll, with your permission, I have held out 1,000 gp for you to provide to Tula to see to ships stores and salaries.
"As for everyone else, you can assume that Tahni and I were able to purchase what you needed at the Catacombs."(Each person should see to your won purchases at the Catacombs ASAP.)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) Monday October 29th, 2018 9:31:02 PM
Sounds like I'll need a trip there once we get back to Bonetown. But we have important work to do. I don't suppose these allies of Lifebb's wear convenient armbands to let us know who they are.
DM Kathy Monday October 29th, 2018 10:14:48 PM
You are on the Lionfish. Is it known here? It might be; it's hard to say. Because of the foul weather, most townsfolk are probably indoors; you may not have been spotted yet. There may be time to turn back. However, you don't have another ship with you.
As you approach, Bralin puts his carving away, and you begin discussing strategy. Aexana offers to scout as an animal. Terser wonders aloud how you will determine which townsfolk are on the side of the cultists.
Rill finishes some final tallies from the Catacombs transaction.
Drini, who had greeted the first appearance of rain with Sparkledance! in Zeoll's head, now shifts her weight. Winter drip, she grumbles.
"Are we docking?" Tula asks. "There's room for us, if we want to."
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) Monday October 29th, 2018 11:02:55 PM
Zeoll tells Drini that the dirt was scattered to the winds and also buried at sea. [OOC: He interprets the word "dirt" to mean captured bad guys.]
Fraweol passes the message to Tula, who tugs at Zeoll's sleeve and says, "I'm right here, Captain!" Zeoll grins and apologizes for his old age. "Sorrry my dearr. My yearrs arre catching up to me."
Zeoll proposes using water breathing and underwater movement to get to town without alerting the populace. Or if they have already seen the ship, they will not be expecting a covert approach from under the waves.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141+12temp+24temp/144 Tuesday October 30th, 2018 7:25:46 AM
Tahni folds her arms and considers Zeoll's proposal. "If they have seen the ship it would only be from a distance. They wouldn't be able to make out any detail. I could cast an illusion to make it look like the Blood Reaver and we could sail right in"
"If they haven't seen the ship then there are a number of ways to get into the town. Each has its merits"
Tahni has no strong feelings one way or another and will happily go with the flow.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T14 / FF27) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Tuesday October 30th, 2018 5:20:21 PM
Bralin's face creases slightly in a pained expression at Zeoll's suggestion, and he reacts quickly to resume his staid facade.
"If possible, I would prefer some other approach", he notes.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d100=38 ; Tuesday October 30th, 2018 6:49:40 PM
Rill scratches his chin a bit as he thinks.
"Well, we do have a few options. Given that ol' squidward was Dekkar's friend, and Dekkar's presumably in town here, approaching underwater could be problematic. And don't forget about his toxic ink. But other than that stupid squid, I don't really mind walking in underwater.
"We could teleport in. Or I have some portable boats, and we can send the Lionfish back out to sea for safety while we come ashore away from town.
"For starters, let's find out if ol' Dekkar is even here."
Rill will cast Divination asking, "where is Dekkar Lifebb now?" (Rolled a 38 - success!)
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday October 30th, 2018 7:40:22 PM "But... the guy ported off the Blood Reaver" Fang says, furrowing her brow in confusion at Tahni's suggestion. "Did I miss something?"
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday October 30th, 2018 8:27:25 PM
Aex listens to the conversation on how to approach the town un-noticed. She agrees with Fang that some approaches tend to have more chance of success than others. She herself is still in favour to go in shaped as harmless animals or anything. She'll probably go there as a bird anyhow...
"This rain probably made many guards to go indoors... and those that will still be there will be cranky for having to be out in the rain...
OoC - Aex too has to go shoping... that was quite a pile of gold they got!
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Tuesday October 30th, 2018 9:54:55 PM
"With Squidward still out there somewhere, would it be best to just go ashore somewhere else so Lifebb doesn't notice and have his pal smash the 'Fish while we're ashore. If we haven't been followed yet and slip in unnoticed, it should be okay." Jozhur cracks a little smile, "Or we could just dock like we own the place."
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) Tuesday October 30th, 2018 11:21:41 PM
"What type of animals fly in rain like this? I do like the idea of sailing straight in. Fortune favors the bold, as they say. And maybe we could encourage some of the cultists here to change their ways before we have to fight them."
DM Kathy Wednesday October 31st, 2018 12:01:40 AM
You have several options for approaching the town: water breathing and underwater movement; teleporting; disguising the Lionfish; turning into animals; putting in elsewhere; or just sailing boldly up to the dock and see what happens.
Rill asks where is Dekkar Lifebb now? His answer: In the Great Hall of Middlemere Keep.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141+12temp+24temp/144 Wednesday October 31st, 2018 7:08:38 AM "Jozhur makes a very good point. We don't know where that kraken is. Getting the Lionfish closer could see it get heavily damaged. We should send her away to keep her safe while we go closer"
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) d20+25=26 ; Wednesday October 31st, 2018 4:07:48 PM
Ugh lost my post. Zeoll looks for a keep in the town and suggests blipping to it. He’ll reduce first. Perception 26
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T14 / FF27) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Wednesday October 31st, 2018 6:42:58 PM
Bralin favors teleporting, followed by just sailing right in.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday October 31st, 2018 7:03:45 PM
Terser has a point as he asks what animals would fly in this weather... but she then also realizes something :
"Hang on... We've teleported onto the Reaver... Dekkar won't let us do this twice... He'll probably expect us to dim door again right up to his doorstep... I do think it would be best to use a different approach this time...
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday October 31st, 2018 7:19:19 PM
Fang is quickly going tired of the discussion. "They know we are coming and we know where they are. We have no way of knowing what defenses they have prepared so there is no way to decide which approach is best. Pick one and let's go; the longer we dither the more time they have to notice us and be ready."
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Wednesday October 31st, 2018 7:25:13 PM "My divination suggest that Dekkar Lifebb is in the Great Hall of Middlemere Keep. Wherever that is.
"Let us approach from a ways away, leaving the Lionfish anchored at sea. I have the means to get us ashore. But once we're there, do we walk up to this keep and just bust in? Dekkar may be there, but it may be the lawful residence of a local ruler. I have no problem bringing this Dekkar to justice, but we may want to gather a little information in town."
Rill looks at Jozhur.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Wednesday October 31st, 2018 8:32:04 PM
Jozhur nods to Rill, "I can certainly go check things out, maybe talk to some people outside the keep at least. Wouldn't want to run into our foe, I'm sure he would remember me well."
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) Wednesday October 31st, 2018 8:55:43 PM
"If anything, wouldn't the 'Fish be safer docked up in shallower water where the kraken would have a harder time maneuvering?
Perhaps we appeal to the Lord as guests, asking to come in out of the rain. Maybe pass ourselves off as visiting dignitaries. I'm sure you can imagine me with a teacup and a pinky in the air."
DM Kathy Thursday November 1st, 2018 12:02:45 AM Zeoll looks for a keep. From the deck of the Lionfish, you do see a hulking form silhouetted against the cloudy sky. It could be a keep, or castle. It appears to be a short distance from town, but it's difficult to say for sure, because you're out here on the water, looking through the rain, and the light is fading.
Aexana points out that Lifebb may be expecting a teleport, given that you've used one before.
Rill and Jozhur want to talk to people in town before trying to approach the keep.
Some of you want to send the Lionfish farther away to keep her safe, but Terser points out that she may be safer in shallower water where the kraken can't maneuver.
The rain continues to fall.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141+12temp+24temp/144 Thursday November 1st, 2018 6:42:16 AM
Tahni thinks that there are lots of ideas that could work together. Standing out here on a ship though isn't going to work for long. Someone will surely notice a ship sitting out in the waters and not sailing in to dock.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday November 1st, 2018 7:12:37 PM
Aex trusts they'll reach a concensus soon so she just listens.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday November 1st, 2018 8:34:26 PM
Fang's already made her thoughts clear on the matter. She settles down to wait and tries to keep her anxiousness for battle at bay.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) Thursday November 1st, 2018 11:06:44 PM
Zeoll sighs in frustration. This is getting us nowhere. He listens as all have their say and then makes a decision.
"Sail on, then, my hearrties," commands Captain Zeoll. "We are simply going to come to dock like we own the place. And soon we will."
DM Kathy Friday November 2nd, 2018 12:18:05 AM
After some discussion, Captain Zeoll makes a decision. Tula sets some sail, and you slowly make your way into the Clowder Bay dock. You dock opposite the other sailing ship, which you now see is called the Black Falcon. A couple of crewmen come out on deck to stare curiously at you for a moment, then go back in out of the rain.
The Lionfish crew lower the gangplank, and you are free to disembark. You still can't make out too much of the town from here; it is still raining and it's gotten darker. You can see, though, that there's a road or path leading from the edge of the dock toward the escarpment where the town sits.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Friday November 2nd, 2018 12:04:29 PM
Rill puts on his new Hat of Disguise to tone down the standout look of his characteristic white robes. He will appear as a sailor for the time being.
Rill will walk with the others up to the town. He's just glad the place is not named Innsmouth.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+33=49 ; d20+23=37 ; Friday November 2nd, 2018 5:50:17 PM
Jozhur nods in approval of Zeoll's decision. He doesn't even bother attempting a disguise. Hopefully the Black Lions aren't getting too big for their britches, if this Lifebb fellow runs this place, they could be in for quite the scrap.
As soon as he is able to do so unnoticed, Jozhur slips into the shadows and moves parallel to the group, ready to pounce if a fight is imminent.
Stealth: 49 Perception: 37
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d20+26=42 ; Friday November 2nd, 2018 10:30:19 PM
Tahni is glad to have her feet back on solid ground again. Much less chance of drowning.
She positions herself close to Terser for the walk ahead.
Perception: 42 + Darkvision + Arcane Sight + See Invisibility
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Sunday November 4th, 2018 5:41:15 PM
Aex too nods as the captain decides. As smooth as the last fights went... as bad does setting plans go... But the Black Lions eventually always get where they want to.
Rill disguises. Jozhur does nothing. Having a plant companion doesn't make it all too simple either. Leafy will walk with the rest of the group in plane sight. Aex however enjoys the secrecy of her Ring of Invisibility and tags along.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+31=44 ; Sunday November 4th, 2018 7:34:14 PM
Rill keeps a sharp eye out for trouble as we proceed up from the docks. He looks sidelong at the big shrubbery walking along with them. Yeah, that looks normal. Maybe Rill can just tell them he's Robert the Shrubber.
(Perception 44)
DM Kathy Sunday November 4th, 2018 9:51:15 PM
You make your way from the dock up toward the town. Rill dons a Hat of Disguise to make himself less conspicuous. Jozhur relies on his natural lack of conspicuousness. Aexana turns invisible, but can do nothing about Leafy, who continues to stroll along next to the party. Tahni is just glad to be on solid ground.
The drenching rain continues as you wind your way up the steep escarpment and into the town proper. You don't see anybody about, but it is getting on for evening, and raining pretty hard. Perhaps it's not surprising that nobody is out for a stroll.
You follow the main road past snug-looking cottages, many with lighted windows indicating that people are at home. You reach a village green, although by now it's too dark to actually see the green. You can deduce its presence, though, from the sheep, which show up as fluffy white blobs in the dim light.
Along the edge of the green are a blacksmith's shop, a cobbler's, and a public house. The windows of the pub are lighted from within, and a bit steamy, indicating a warm fire somewhere within. There is also a delicious smell. The blacksmith and the cobbler do appear to be open for business, although there's no business to speak of at the moment.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Monday November 5th, 2018 5:05:18 AM
Tahni pulls her clothes tighter to help stay dry. Her Endure Elements spell keeping her at a nice temperature. "Sooooo........ pub?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+31=37 Monday November 5th, 2018 2:50:46 PM
Rill says quietly, "I suggest we split up and gather what information we can. I have Status running on all of you, and can get to you quickly if there's trouble. The biggest number of folks will be in the Public House. I plan to go in there and scan the locals for undead or any constructs that may be there.
"Anyone interested in visiting the blacksmith or cobbler?"
Rill will cast Detect Evil before going in to the public house. He also makes sure the secure his valuables, as this may be a rough crowd.
Once inside, he'll order an ale and some food, and scan the crowd for a few rounds to get an idea of who may be evil. He'll also use Deathwatch to determine which here are injured, healthy, undead or constructs.
He looks for any that may be hiding, or perhaps hiding something as he goes. (Perception 37)
---------------------------- Detect Evil - Range 60'. 3 rounds to determine the who's evil and if the power of their aura.
Deathwatch - Range 30'. You instantly know whether each creature within the area is dead, fragile (alive and wounded, with 3 or fewer hit points left), fighting off death (alive with 4 or more hit points), healthy, undead, or neither alive nor dead (such as a construct). Deathwatch sees through any spell or ability that allows creatures to feign death.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) d20+17=19 ; Monday November 5th, 2018 6:05:30 PM I'd rather eat some cobbler than visit one. I may as well go see the blacksmith. Like as not, we'll have something in common.
Terser heads that direction to see what's what. He'll try to get an idea of if this shop would be supplying cultists with weapons, or if he or she makes more mundane items mostly. perception 19
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday November 5th, 2018 6:13:07 PM
As they go Leafy feels Rill's eyes on him… he stares back and shrugs his shoulder… "I'll just be the giant sellery… "
"Rill's right my friend", Aexana softly says to her companion, "You would attract too much attention while we're checking out this place. Look there; wait there untill we get back or untill you can hear we're in trouble.. Aex points at a small dark alley where Leafy can wait.
Even though the warmth of a pub sounds most welcoming, she decides to head over to the warmth of a blacksmith's fireplace. Invisilble she watches through any windows. When possible she'll make her way inside.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Monday November 5th, 2018 7:13:57 PM
Fang idly wonders if anyone in this town has ever seen a beastfolk. Given that they're likely slavers it's possible. She's also not sure they should trust anything anyone in this town tells them considering. Still the rest seem to think it's a good idea so she goes along with it, joining the group going into the pub.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T14 / FF27) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) d20+11=14 ; Monday November 5th, 2018 7:15:31 PM
Bralin says nothing. He's confident his comrades know where he's heading. He walks through the door of the pub ahead of Rill, and then waits for the man to point out an empty table where he dutifully heads and orders a pint, or two.
The dwarf checks out the inn's crowd, not bothering to hide the fact. No one would be expected to walk into a tavern in these waters without showing some degree of care, and Bralin will not be an exception.
[Perception 14]
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d20+26=37 ; Monday November 5th, 2018 7:18:41 PM
Tahni joins the others heading for the pub. Her Arcane Sight works instantaneously, and doesn't require any concentration or time to take effect. Similarly if there is any invisible dark elf in there she'll be able to spot him with her See Invisibility spell.
She's not quite sure what story the group will go with.
Before debarking, Zeoll calls Drini. Her ability to scout around invisibly will be invaluable. He gives her the cloak of the manta ray, if he has not done so already.
[OOC: removing 2000 gp from my sheet for casting LSPA spells. Also updating loot and XP.]
Zeoll thinks that poking around for information, in an inn, in shops, and so on, is a fine idea. He joins in, listening, sniffing, and paying for drinks and news.
Gather Information 34
Plus anything Drini may hear or see in her quiet invisible scouting. Like where that keep is!
DM Kathy Monday November 5th, 2018 10:23:57 PM
As most of the group heads for the pub, Terser goes to the small blacksmith's shop as Aexana watches from outside. The front of the building is open to the street, revealing various ironmongery displayed on tables. There is a forge behind the display area, but it is currently cold and no work is being done. You look around, and can tell immediately that this is no weapon smith. Items for sale include nails, fishing weights, and gardening tools. There are a few more specialized items, such as hinges and fireplace pokers. A few sewing needles are displayed on a green cloth.
The blacksmith isn't there when you walk in, but he soon enters from another part of the building. He is an average-looking man, just entering middle age, with hazel eyes and thinning brown hair. "Wasn't expecting to--oh." He breaks off when he catches sight of Terser, a stranger. He clears his throat. "Help you, sir?"
Rill casts Detect Evil and enters the pub, with Bralin, Fang, Tahni, Zeoll, and the invisible Drini. Conversation stops when you enter, and the gathered townsfolk look at you curiously. As you make your way to a table, conversation gradually starts up again, albeit in whispers. Probably about you.
Rill can tell that there are no constructs or undead present, and that everybody here is a reasonably healthy natural person. Your Detect Evil picks up a couple of evil auras, belonging to a man and woman seated together at the bar.
Tahni does not see anything invisible, except Drini. Well, and Aexana, if she joins you.
Zeoll begins chatting up the locals, but gathering information is going to take a while. [OOC: Rill's thing is measured in rounds, and yours in minutes, so we can still use the Gather Information roll, but you won't get results for a little bit.]
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d20+26=41 ; d20+7=12 ; Tuesday November 6th, 2018 2:08:49 AM
Assuming Rill shares his information, Tahni focuses her Arcane Sight at the pair: one round on each of them.
Tahni tries to discreetly listen in on the nearby conversations. Trying to act casual doesn't come very easily however.
--------------------- Arcane Sight: If you concentrate on a specific creature within 120 feet of you as a standard action, you can determine whether it has any spellcasting or spell-like abilities, whether these are arcane or divine (spell-like abilities register as arcane), and the strength of the most powerful spell or spell-like ability the creature currently has available for use.
Perception to overhear things: 41 Bluff to look at ease in the bar: 12
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+31=39 Tuesday November 6th, 2018 1:58:56 PM
Rill is rather relieved to know the place isn't crawling with undead. He quietly shares what he learns with his friends.
Is the food any good? He checks his Status spell to know the direction and distance to Terser and Aex, glad to know they are together.
He continues to keep a sharp eye out (Perception 39.)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) d20+8=22 ; Tuesday November 6th, 2018 4:36:44 PM Didn't mean to surprise you. Were you waiting for someone? I can come back if it's a bad time. I was looking for a gift for a friend. Do you have anything in the way of stonecarving tools? Or maybe a block of some local stone that my friend can make something out of? It's always nice to come in and see what makes a town special.
Terser will try to get a sense of the man, whether he seems nervous or like he's hiding something. If not, he'll just buy some small item like anyone else that comes into a shop.
Sense Motive: 22
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday November 6th, 2018 6:11:56 PM
Aex quietly watches how Terser makes conversations with the Blacksmith. She too wonders if he was expecting someone else... let's wait and see how this evolves...
For now, she does not interfer.
From his hiding place in the shadows Leafy keeps and eye on the town.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+33=49 ; d20+23=40 ; Tuesday November 6th, 2018 6:50:10 PM
With the group splitting up, Jozhur remains in the shadows outside for the time being, watching and listening for trouble. If everyone eventually enters the same building, he will follow.
Stealth: 49 Perception: 40
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T14 / FF27) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Tuesday November 6th, 2018 6:59:34 PM
Bralin sits down, drops a couple gold pieces on the table, waits for a staffer to arrive, and orders.
"Meat, bread, ale."
"Ale first."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday November 6th, 2018 7:29:26 PM
Fang joins Bralin at his table. She doesn't have to pretend to be at ease here; she's used to getting reactions wherever she goes between her usual race and her unusual dress (barbarian hides and symbol of Alemi).
When the server comes she greats them warmly and asks for suggestions on what to order. "I always enjoy trying new things. Are there any local dishes I should try?"
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) Tuesday November 6th, 2018 10:27:24 PM
Zeoll is patient and knows that gathering information takes a while. He'll keep on keeping on, unless his friends end up picking a fight or something.
DM Kathy Tuesday November 6th, 2018 10:36:50 PM
At the blacksmith's, Terser asks about stonecarving tools. "Well, I don't have anything to hand," the smith replies, "but I could make something for you if you'd like. It'd probably be tomorrow, though." A smile ghosts across his face. "My wife'll make me sleep outside if I'm that late to supper."
The smith seems mostly puzzled and curious about the stranger in his shop, but you do get a hint of underlying nervousness as well.
Outside the blacksmith's shop, Aexana and Leafy continue to wait and watch.
Outside the pub, Jozhur slips into the shadows to wait and watch. And continue to get wet. You notice that the sign hanging above the pub's door depicts three anchors. [I meant to mention that yesterday, but I forgot.]
In the pub, Tahni fixes her Arcane Sight on the man and woman at the bar. Whatever their talents may be, they don't include spellcasting.
Bralin orders ale and food. The ale here is reasonably good by human standards, meaning it is just barely passable to dwarves who have gotten used to the inferior human product.
Fang asks about local dishes she should try. "It's fish pie tonight," the server says, and brings a full plate to anyone who asks.
The fish pie does seem to be the only food on offer tonight, but Rill samples it and finds it quite good--flavorful fish in a creamy sauce, topped with mashed potato.
Zeoll, chatting with the locals, is able to determine that the keep on the outskirts of town is, indeed, called Middlemere Keep. Talking about it seems to make people nervous.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+31=42 ; d20+31=40 ; Wednesday November 7th, 2018 2:18:16 PM
Rill will make quick work of the fish pie and down the rest of his ale. He check his Status spell to make sure no one is poisoned or otherwise affected (I wonder if this would work on himself.)
"Ahh, that was quite good. I think I'll take this opportunity to go see that cobbler about some shoes before he closes up shop. I should be back shortly. If anyone else needs to see the cobbler, you are welcome to accompany me."
Then he quietly adds, "It may be interesting to see if our two friends over there decide to follow." He looks to see if they, or anyone else here, seems to have a pin or insignia representing the Dragon Cult.
Rill then leaves to visit the cobbler, activating Greater Insight once outside to give him 120' of darkvision for 8 min. He keeps a sharp eye out for trouble as he goes. He looks at the cobbler's shop carefully, both as he approaches and once inside. Does anything seem amiss? Do the goods appear to be newly made? Does it smell right in here, as you might expect in such a place? (Perception 42)
Once he, and anyone else, is before the cobbler, he greets this person. "Good evening, my good sir. I would like to be measured for some sturdy shoes." Once the man is engaged, he casually plies him with questions, "We have just pulled in to port. What can you tell me about this town? Is this a safe place? Should I watch my purse? Who rules here, and are there local laws I should be careful not to run afoul of? We had a man die aboard our ship. He was buried at sea and I would pay my respects on his behalf to a temple to Gargul. Is there such a place in your town? In fact, what gods are worshiped here?" (Sense Motive 40 to gauge the cobbler's reply.)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) Wednesday November 7th, 2018 5:59:56 PM Tomorrow should be fine, sir. Thank you. Now get home to the wife, I wouldn't want to be getting you in trouble at home.
Once outside, he casually whispers to the air, hoping Aexana hears him. "You may want to follow him when he leaves, see if he really goes home. I'll go wait at the tavern and see if we can scope this place out once he leaves."
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T14 / FF27) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) d20+11=24 ; Wednesday November 7th, 2018 6:52:17 PM
Bralin nods at Rill.
He raises an empty tankard, and waits for someone to fill it.
He also tries to keep an eye on the two Rill pointed out. [Perception 24]
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday November 7th, 2018 7:41:27 PM
Fang rather enjoys the pie. She'd never lived by the coast until deciding to seek out the Black Lions and had rather enjoyed trying all the strange new seafood. At Rills mention of going to the cobbler she shakes her head. "I doubt he's expeienced at making the kinds of shoes I need. It's rather different than a human or elven foot what with the claws and all"
She settles back to sip her ale and wait, leaving the skulduggery and investigation to the rest of the party. She does note if anyone follows after Rill.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday November 7th, 2018 8:07:47 PM
Aex got Terser's idea. As he leaves Aex remains invisible and stays near the Blacksmith.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+23=43 ; d20+33=51 ; Wednesday November 7th, 2018 8:41:58 PM
Jozhur continues observing from outside, watching over his friends. Should Jozhur hear Terser's suggestion (perception 43), he will follow the blacksmith, making sure Terser sees what he is doing.
Stealth: 51
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) Wednesday November 7th, 2018 9:46:02 PM
Zeoll continues to be alert, listening and trying to get a hunch as to why people are nervous about Middlemere Keep.
But before he actually rolls his skill checks, he figures it out. The townsfolk are nervous because the place is a local HQ for an evil cult of human sacrifice. That's not something he needs a sense motive roll to figure out.
He waits patiently for his friends to finish their investigations. Then he suggests (via message spell) that the entire party just walk up to the keep, enter, and kick butt until we have answers.
DM Kathy Wednesday November 7th, 2018 10:58:04 PM
At the blacksmith's, Terser agrees to return tomorrow. He and Aexana make a plan to determine whether the blacksmith actually goes home. After shutting up the shop, the man does indeed walk about ten feet to the house next door and go inside.
In the Three Anchors, Fang savors her fish pie while Bralin calls silently for more ale. You keep an eye on the man and woman at the bar, which is handy, because they seem to be keeping an eye on you.
Zeoll realizes he doesn't need a lot of fancy talking to figure out what makes people nervous about the keep. Evil cults are just uncomfortable to be around.
Rill downs his fish pie in a hurry, then heads to the cobbler's. He finds the man just closing up for the day. From what you can see, the place looks like a perfectly ordinary cobbler's shop. He sighs a bit when you ask for shoes, but he opens back up and ushers you into the warm shop. "Be right with you," he says. He looks to be in his sixties, with a fringe of white hair around a bald pate. "If you care to take them boots off, sir, I'll get you measured."
As he traces your feet onto a piece of soft hide, you ask your questions. They make him very nervous. "It's a nice enough place," he says noncommittally. "Your purse is safe. Town's run by a council." That part seems to make him very nervous. "No temples, to Gargul or anybody else." He finishes his measurements, and pulls out a couple of pieces of leather, inviting you to choose one for your new shoes. "Now, you said you wanted 'em sturdy," he says. "I can do you sturdy, but truth be told, round here I mostly make shoes that can come off in a hurry. Fishermen, you know. Don't want shoes dragging you down if you wind up in the brine. I ain't done sturdy in a while."
After Rill leaves, the man and woman at the bar have a brief but intense conversation, then get up and leave the Three Anchors. Outside, Jozhur sees them leave the pub and head off in the direction of the keep.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d20+26=44 ; Thursday November 8th, 2018 5:06:38 AM "Agreed. Let's not let this pair get away though. I'm thinking they're lookouts and will report to 'someone' that we're here" Tahni responds to Zeoll's whispered message.
With the pair leaving the tavern, Tahni waits 20 seconds or so and then follows. When she gets outside the door she looks both ways to try and see which way they went, and whether any of the party are after them as well.
Perception: 44
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday November 8th, 2018 8:01:41 AM
Fang also agrees with the immediate commencing of ass kicking. She pays for the meal, leaving a generous tip, and walks out to find her companions.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday November 8th, 2018 4:23:43 PM
From her hiding place Aexana was observing the Blacksmith... expecting, no hoping, him to go do some devious things and then... he just does what he said he was going to do... he went home...
"Really?!? Man this place is boring... , Aex thinks as she stands there pouting invisibly...
So she just trots away, Leafy joins her... he also looks rather disappointed...
"Come my friend let's go find our friends and see what they are brewing in the pub... it's probably not only warmer but also more interesting there.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) Thursday November 8th, 2018 5:07:50 PM Maybe someone could throw some illusion magic on the path ahead of them to get them turned around, maybe even headed back towards us.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T14 / FF27) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Thursday November 8th, 2018 7:07:14 PM
Bralin gives Tahni another half minute, and then if no one follows her, leaves as well.
Once outside, he starts working his way toward the edge of town where the keep is. He'll hold at the last set of buildings for his comrades to arrive.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+23=35 ; d20+33=37 ; Thursday November 8th, 2018 8:04:16 PM
Jozhur will follow the pair from the tavern who head for the castle, trying to stay close enough to hear conversation. He will try to let a black lion see where he is headed if possible.
Perception 35 Stealth 37
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) Thursday November 8th, 2018 8:17:09 PM
Zeoll chuckles softly as the entire party gets up to follow these two potential miscreants. Well, he is not stealthy, so he follows last of all, using a message spell and his keen scent to stay within about a hundred feet of the tail end of the line.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday November 8th, 2018 9:34:25 PM
In response to Zeoll's earlier message, Rill wonders is the old liontaur is this aggressive in his twilight years, what must've he have been like as an impetuous youth.
As the cobbler finishes up his measurements, Rill gets Tahni's message and hears the response. Here we go. Rill can also sense that his friends are on the move (Status also provides direction and distance to his friends.) He needs to join them.
"Actually my good cobbler, er, what's you name? As you suggest, perhaps shoes that are easier to kick off would be better - please make those.
"I fear I must leave you in some haste just now. Listen to me though. We have some ... business with a certain person in the keep. I can sense that those in the keep make you uncomfortable - our business here may remedy that as well. But things may become difficult here for a bit until we can get things under control.
"Here take this gold and guard yourself and your family. I intend for nothing ill to happen to any of the goodly folks of this town. As I said, our business is with those in the keep. But you may want to hunker down for a bit.
"Rest assured, the God of Line and Death has come to this town to set things aright. In doing so, he watches over all those that respect the sanctity of life."
Rill will hastily toss the man a purse with about 50 gold, as he heads out the door and up the hill to join his friends. His Darkvision will last 15 min, so it should still be going.
DM Kathy Thursday November 8th, 2018 11:55:51 PM
Seeing the pair depart the pub, Tahni waits a moment, then goes after them. Fang waits a moment, then goes after Tahni. Bralin waits a moment, then goes after Fang. Zeoll leaves last. These cunning maneuvers will surely fool all the townsfolk who saw you all walk in together.
Jozhur, already outside, also follows the pair. Terser makes a suggestion, but doesn't move off immediately.
Aexana, still invisible, enters the pub, to the confusion of the patrons. Does Leafy go in as well?
Rill hastily concludes his business with the cobbler, who introduces himself as Avit. A simple man, he is completely unable to keep up with Rill's rapid-fire conversation, though he does clearly appreciate the bag of gold.
Of the people following the two who left the pub, only Jozhur is close enough to really see them. It is full night now, and the rain complicates things even for people with darkvision. The two do seem to be making their way toward the keep, but they know the road and you do not. It is difficult to keep up--and your group is now strung out along the road.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Friday November 9th, 2018 6:03:12 AM
With the party now coming after her Tahni stops to wait for them to catch up. Better to be safe in numbers and all that. She has no idea where Jozhur is but trusts Rill will tell them if he has taken a hit.
The dwarves in the group - such as Tahni - all have darkvision, though don't really have a way to see through rain.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T14 / FF27) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Saturday November 10th, 2018 9:14:56 AM
Bralin keeps walking until he catches up with Tahni.
Once his comrades reassemble, he looks to Zeoll and Rill.
"They know we are coming. Any delay merely gives them more time to prepare."
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Saturday November 10th, 2018 11:20:38 PM
Rill does his best to locate everyone with Status, and catch up with the rearmost group, ready to teleport them ahead if those in the front are damaged or otherwise affected.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) Sunday November 11th, 2018 10:59:25 AM
Terser agrees with Bralin's assessment and joins the party in hustling up the mountain. He trusts Jozhur to spot any traps along the way.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) Sunday November 11th, 2018 11:24:06 AM
"Well," says Zeoll, smiling, "if we arre walking, then at least we arre getting somewherre."
He sticks with the party to follow Jozhur.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Sunday November 11th, 2018 5:55:50 PM
An invisible Aex throws open the door to the pub when she notices her friends are no longer there... good thing Leafy wasn't standing in the door opening yet or else... so she just lets go of the door... must have been the wind then...
So she looks around to see where they all went. She looks at Leafy... her trusted companion was standing outside earlier and he wasn't trying to find clues about something that wasn't there. So he just points a finger... branch...
"Ok then, off we go my friend... "
And so Aex tries to catch up with the others. Must be a long stretch of Black LIons now. Walking single file.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+23=29 ; d20+33=43 ; Sunday November 11th, 2018 9:37:48 PM
Jozhur keeps after the pair heading for the keep. The rain might make it difficult to hear anything they say, but at least it would also make himself nearly invisible. Do these people seem to be in a hurry?
Perception: 29 Stealth: 43
DM Kathy Sunday November 11th, 2018 9:58:23 PM Jozhur keeps the two from the tavern in sight. They do seem to be in a hurry, and despite your best efforts, they are gaining ground. They know the road, and you don't, and that's enough of an advantage that they are gradually pulling away.
Tahni stops to allow the others to catch up. Now everyone but Jozhur is together. And although your path is leading upward, it's really more of a hill than a mountain. The rain continues to fall.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Monday November 12th, 2018 5:07:02 AM
Tahni looks wordlessly to the others to see who will take the lead.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday November 12th, 2018 5:57:19 PM
Aex is a little worried that the group is heading blindly... perhaps it would be best to scout ahead. But for now she stays with teh group.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T14 / FF27) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Monday November 12th, 2018 6:32:53 PM
Bralin looks about. Some are not here.
But, as Rill lets them know Jozhur is ahead of them, the dwarf nods, and starts up the hill.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Monday November 12th, 2018 6:57:12 PM
Fang follows along, axe loose in it's sheathe and a slight smile on her face. This is more like it. Plans are great and all but they rarely survive contact with the enemy and she's always favored kicking in the door and figuring it out on the fly.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) Monday November 12th, 2018 8:31:11 PM
Zeoll worries that danger is coming. He gives Drini a ring and casts Shield Other to give her +1 saves, +1 AC, and of course half of any damage she takes goes to him. With her damage reduction and his regeneration, he's hoping they'll be okay. Plus the mage armors he cast earlier today.
He figures his Magic Circle has expired, and if no one objects, he sounds his horn. (If anyone objects, he'll refrain.)
He is happy, then, to approach this den of iniquity.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) Monday November 12th, 2018 8:48:04 PM
There is nothing much that Terser can do to prepare. All his magic is short term. For now, he follows with the others, trying not to hate the wet.
DM Kathy Monday November 12th, 2018 10:04:28 PM
Shortly before they reach the keep, Jozhur loses sight of the two figures altogether. It's not much cause for concern, however; it's completely obvious where they are going.
The rest of the group is about five minutes behind Jozhur. You are able to catch up--unless Jozhur decides to head off and scout the keep. Rill can tell where he's going, either way.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Tuesday November 13th, 2018 5:47:30 AM "Ok, let's push forward. Those people aren't going to sit and wait for us. We need to make up ground before they have time to prepare too much"
Tahni urges the group to keep going ahead.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday November 13th, 2018 8:35:36 AM
Fang will continue on towards the keep unless the rest of the party stops.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Tuesday November 13th, 2018 1:38:04 PM
Rill keeps tabs on Jozhur, ready to blip most of us forward if there's trouble. He shares what he know as we proceed up toward the keep.
He also uses his Darkvision to make sure he doesn't trip in all this rain.
Rill asks Zeoll to use his message spell to contact Jozhur and ask what's going on up there.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) d20+19=21 ; Tuesday November 13th, 2018 5:49:47 PM
Terser looks through the rain at the keep, trying to get an idea of its age, quality of construction and design, and who looks to have constructed it (dwarves, humans, other). Different builders put their murder holes and trap doors in different places...
perception stonework: 21
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+23=35 ; d20+33=46 ; Tuesday November 13th, 2018 6:00:27 PM
Jozhur gets just close enough to see the entrance. Is it gated or open so they can just waltz in? Any guards visible?
He decided not to go any further, at least without letting the other Black Lions know first, so he starts back down the way he came.
Perception: 35 Stealth: 46
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T14 / FF27) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Tuesday November 13th, 2018 6:16:00 PM
Confident nothing will be encountered until Jozhur sends word, Bralin continues forward.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday November 13th, 2018 6:58:14 PM "How about I do some scouting... either invisible or as a small animal... with a message spell and perhaps a speak with animals we can relay anything I can see."
Or else Aex assume the stealthy ones will find a way to gathering info.
DM Kathy Wednesday November 14th, 2018 12:14:33 AM Jozhur scouts the keep. You do not see a gate or portcullis, but there is a set of sizable doors on the front. It's difficult to tell through the rain, but they appear to be wood bound with metal. You are not sure whether they are locked.
The rest of the group catches up. Terser can tell that the keep is of human design, though they may have hired dwarven artisans for some of the actual building. Then again, they might not have--the thing's not in very good shape.
Aexana offers to do some additional scouting.
You can all see that the keep is in pretty poor repair. Is it bad enough that you might find some crack or opening to work your way in? Possibly. It's also possible there is another entrance, aside from the impressive-looking double doors. The only thing you can say for sure is that it isn't getting any drier out here.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Wednesday November 14th, 2018 6:24:45 AM "Rather than waste time poking around, what say we just push ahead right through the front door?" Tahni offers "They know we're here, and they already have a head start on us. Let's not give them any more time to fortify"
Tahni is all in favor of getting in those doors right now.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) Wednesday November 14th, 2018 7:26:59 AM
Zeoll uses his message spell and whispers to keep the invisible and stealthy members of the group informed, and vice versa. He steps forward to lead the group to the keep and knocks on the door. He calls out, "HAIL THE KEEP! OPEN AND LET US ENTERR!"
He sounds his magic horn. If he needs to refresh his magic circle, he will; otherwise he just uses it for its musical properties to declare the group's presence.
He takes out his chime of opening. If there is no response, say, if the door does not open, he'll sound it four or five times to try to get this show on the road.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Wednesday November 14th, 2018 5:17:31 PM
Rill stands ready. He looks to the battlements, half expecting a figure to appear and hurl taunts about hamsters and elderberries. Rill spreads out a bit from the others so as not to provide too tempting a single fireball target.
"By Gargul's Teeth, but this place looks about ready to fall down. Would that I had taken the spell Earthquake - I could cast it and then we could all go home. If for some reason your chime does not work Zeoll, I can get us inside by other means.
"Hey Aexana, can you fly up and see if this place has a roof? Maybe we just need to get over these walls."
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) Wednesday November 14th, 2018 6:10:36 PM
Terser starts at the statement that seems so unlike Rill. He's usually the first to worry about collateral damage to innocents. And an earthquake up here in the rain could not only kill innocent serving people, but cause landslides down the hill into the town. Most of those people didn't seem to be evil.
Still, he has no doubts that they could bash their way in through the front door, or even tear a couple of wall stones out if necessary. Or maybe the keep has good hosts who will invite them in for a warm drink by the fire. Anyone have some poison curing spells handy?
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T14 / FF27) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Wednesday November 14th, 2018 6:37:32 PM
Bralin glances over at Zeoll. "I confess simply asking them to open the door never crossed my mind," he deadpans. "Has that worked for you before?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Wednesday November 14th, 2018 7:12:52 PM
Sensing Terser's shock, Rill wipes water off his face as he says, "Yeah, your right Terser. I guess I'm just a little grouchy, standing here in the mud and rain while some slaving cult leader is holed in this crumbling keep. But it would probably be a bad idea to bring the roof down on innocent slaves and guards.
"To answer you question, I do have some scrolls that will help with poison."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+21=38 ; Wednesday November 14th, 2018 7:33:10 PM
Aex nods at Rill. She hands Zeoll a Speak with Animal potion and then instead of transforming into a bird she changes into a nice looking monkey... Invisible and with a climb speed of 30ft the little animal can quickly and quietly scale the walls of the keep. As Aexmonkey goes she relates whatever she sees to Zeoll through his message spells.
Perception 38
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday November 14th, 2018 7:59:13 PM "We don't actually know if this keep belongs to the enemy." Fang points out. We know he calls this area home, but if this keep is his why is it so run down? Perhaps there's a local lord he has under his thumb and is forced to live here."
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) Wednesday November 14th, 2018 9:29:50 PM
As a naturally invisible creature, can Drini see invisible? If so, she can keep track of invisible monkey Aex.
Zeoll does not drink the potion yet, considering its likely duration.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Wednesday November 14th, 2018 10:00:39 PM
Jozhur tugs his hood down further, in a vain effort to keep the water from his eyes. The rogue takes a quick look at the doors, is there a locking mechanism? If there is, he stands by to go to work in the event Zeoll's hail goes unanswered. If it lacks a mechanism he can access, Jozhur instead judges whether he can climb the walls of the keep in this slippery rain. An archer on the wall may come in handy if the others start trying to break the doors down.
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