DM Kathy Monday July 2nd, 2018 10:13:59 PM
At first, some of you are inclined to be a bit put out that you aren't going home just yet. Surely saving the Wold had been good enough to earn a short break? And who are these mysterious "people" that want to talk to you?
But as they approach, you begin to realize who wants to talk to you, and Zeoll, at least, seems to have some idea of what they want to talk to you about. Some introductions are made, with probably more to come.
For his part, Gimp stands off to one side, grinning, appearing ready to interject if things get dull.
[OOC: I'm not sure how much info the Iron Dragons players have, so I plan to interject additional information where it seems needed.]
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 70of77hp) Monday July 2nd, 2018 11:02:05 PM
Zeoll smiles bashfully and waves his hands to dismiss his own words, as if they were a miasma (or maybe a smelly gas).
"Rrill, my brrotherr, don't you know yet not to pay too much heed to the maunderrings of an old taurr? Nobody's turrning down anything. Do not let me prrejudge the prroceedings. My old frriends arre herre to do us a favorr and an honorr, I'm guessing, and it would be sorrely impolite to rrefuse even beforre they begin. I'm just an old fool, mutterring to an old frriend." He bows to Restlin. "THIS one knows betterr than to take me serriously, I hope?"
Zeoll's tail has drooped, and those who know him will maybe realize it is a sign that he is embarrassed.
"Let me not hog the spotlight. Well met, Berri and Zane. It is wonderrful to see you."
Katinka 'Tink' Hushfoot -- RobC Monday July 2nd, 2018 11:41:43 PM
A small halfling pops into existence just to the right of the party. Up until then you had no idea she was even there. You didn't even see her approach!
Katinka Hushfoot is a tiny little halfling woman wearing a black leather outfit and has long ebony hair tied back in a pony tail. She floats a few feet off the ground so as to be at eye level with most of the party. She doesn't have any visible weapons. Tink carries a mithral shield and you can almost feel the buzz of magical energy surrounding her.
Tink gives a very slight bow "I'm Katinka, Justicar of Pantheon. But there's no need for formalities here. Please, call me Tink."
If you take the humans out of the equation you have three dwarves, a linotaur, and a gnome meeting two minotaurs, two halflings, and a surface drow. Quite the variety.
"Looks like you've had the same type of day as us. Don't worry. You get used to that sort of stuff on the Southern Continent"
Truth be told the party had never seen anything of this scale before and it is obvious she says this lightheartedly.
Bosk DeOx of Hook City (James D) Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 12:31:27 AM
There is a flash of light as a large minotaur comes into view behind Tink. Tall even by taur standards, the 9 1/2 ft tall figure is a commanding presence. Perhaps it is the 10 ft bastard sword slung across his back, a third eye in the center of his forehead, or that he casts no shadow in the Wold.
Casually he brushes dust off of a black pea-coat sewn of chimera skin with cold as wisps of dark fog seeping from underneath his cloak.
Where the armor doesn't cover you can see the scorpions moving through his fur. Not crawling on top of it or under it, within in it as a ghost passes through a wall or a tattoo through the skin. If that were not strange enough, a silver Holy Symbol like you have never seen before is emblazoned on his forehead and in the center of it is living third eye darting left and right. On his breast is the adamantium emblem with the IA Shield worn by the Iron Adventurer's before they became known as the Iron Dragons.
Zeoll! Last time I saw you we were doing that thing in the place the gods forbid us to talk about sealing away the Choas Bell with the help of numerous gods and Immortal Powers)...the Wold was almost destroyed then as well. I saw the work you all did fighting those demons while I was inside the crystal space ship. I had no doubt you would would find or attract a quality group of adventurers. Actually, you probably don't know this, but I started following your exploits again when I heard of your struggles to defeat that thrice cursed demigod wanna-be or an an immortal, Biloopl.
Sesha, Emissary of Serenbeth Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 1:57:59 AM
A bit behind the others, a ball of misty cloud-stuff careens through the sky. It plummets towards the ground, then slows, and ultimately stops, gaining some substantial form. As the mist dances back into the air, it reveals a female drow. She lightly taps one foot onto solid ground, then the other, and she quickly sets about waving the rest of the cloud-bits off of her person.
"Air Walk spell and whatnot. Lingers a bit too long, really."
Her preening done, she looks around and smiles. She had met a few of these folk before in her travels, and chatted with several in the Giggling Ghost. Zeoll in particular, she had met and talked with. She was ready to be home, but these fine folks deserved her time, so she would give it happily. She notes Bosk and Restlin were already inserting themselves into the group here. No social restraint with those two. She didn't even bother looking for Garret. Whatever she though he had no business doing was probably what he was busy doing. No reason to expect anything else from that one.
"First things first, before the rum and handshakes, is anyone hurt? Nasty spells lingering? I'm not a cleric, but my pact with Little Spirit has afforded me a modicum of healing skill, and my magic generally does the rest."
She rummages through a pack for heal potions and poultices. There wasn't much she couldn't fix. She does sneak a smile.
"Otherwise, hello everyone! I apologize for any Iron Dragons who may have emerged from shadow, popped out of the air, teleported down in lightning, or just materialized in front of you.." .. her sentence is cut short when she notices Garret and his armpit bread. ".. I also apologize for any unsanitary food you might have been offered or pressured to eat. We are a relaxed bunch, to put it lightly."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 136/136 Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 2:58:56 AM
In terms of appearance, for a dwarf Tahni almost looks fragile. Her hair is unkempt, as she's not keen to wear the braids and beads like the rest of her kin. Everything else - her clothes and skin - remain clean. Her hands are soft having never worked in a mine in her life, however her skin is quite fair from spending much time underground.
Everyone is talking and seem to know one another. Tahni doesn't speak to any of the Iron Dragons directly. She's just happy to be part of this moment and doesn't want to ruin it for everyone.
She does recognise Bosk and Zane straight away and grins.
"I, uh, I'm Tahni" she says trying to sound confident to the rest of the Iron Dragons.
Restlin the Mendicant Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 10:51:05 AM "This one knows not to take anything too seriously," answers Restlin. He looks around. Everyone here? Great. He starts talking before anyone else can steal his thunder.
He pulls Shiny from it's scabbard and slices the outline of a door through the air. When he's done, an ordinary wooden door hangs in the air. He walks up and opens it, revealing an opulent foyer beyond. "We're not having this conversation standing around on a battlefield. We Iron Dragons aren't much for ceremony, but we're not uncivilized..."
Inside, the air is cool and dry. The whole place smells faintly of sandalwood.. Translucent servants greet everyone as they enter. Some offer drinks, some offer to take any burdens for safe keeping during their stay. A feast has been prepared and sits waiting for everyone. Restlin is sure to place a stern hand on Garret's shoulder as he enters, stopping the halfling from walking over and touching everything before he has a chance to wash. For good measure, he casts a quick prestidigitation over Garret to clean him up.
"Make yourselves comfortable, everyone." Is all he says. He trusts others, mainly Bosk, to deliver the news with more gravity than he can muster.
Garret Goodbarrel Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 11:33:29 AM
Garret sits back and passes out bread to those who ask for it. He then burps quite loudly while the others are talking.
When Restlin opens the door Garret makes a beeline for the kitchen, but is stopped by Restlin's hand. Garret looks up at him and then says, "Oh, right." He steps to the side as Restlin cleans him yet again and gestures to allow the others to enter first. While waiting he is bouncing from one foot to the other, hoping that everyone will hurry up and get inside so he can get to the food.
Rill (MarkB) HP 111/111 - AC 25/15/23 CMD 23 Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 12:14:37 PM
Rill is human with a swarthy complexion, dark brown hair, medium build, and an old scar on right side of face. In contrast to his dark skin and hair, he wears a gleaming white cloak over white robes with white breeches. His breastplate, helm and shield also bear the mark of his God. And like Bosk, thin whisps of fog occasionally seep from beneath his cloak. Oh, and his eyes are completely white as he takes this all in.
Rill will follow the others into the mansion created by Restlin. Impressive. Opulent. Comfortable.
"Greetings. I am Rillett Savenport, Soulseeker and servant of the God of Life and Death. You honor us with a visit, the purpose of which I'm sure you will share in time. Nice place, by the way."
Rill will gladly relinquish his armor, helm and shield to the servants. Rill is almost patient as he waits to hear why we are all here. Almost. It's been a really long day, but it appears that it's been a long day for his hosts as well.
Through all this, he keeps tuned into his Status spell, carefully monitoring his friends' health and locations to make sure nothing is amiss, ready to intercede in a flash should things start sliding sideways. He absently grabs a scroll in his pocket.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 4:54:24 PM
Finally having caught his wind after the extended battle, Terser follows the others through the door. He doesn't know these people, other than a brief encounter with Bosk and Zane, but any friend of Zeoll's is surely trustworthy.
Armpit bread isn't the most appetizing thing, but once Sesha mentions the rum, he makes sure to introduce himself. Terser, at your service, miss.
He is a battle scarred dwarf in a breastplate, with the top of his braided beard visible before it runs inside his armor. He carries a glaive with some large teeth and claws attached to leather cords running around it, and there's a dusty looking bag around his neck. Every so often he holds the bag, seeming to draw some strength from it.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 7:03:12 PM
Aexana is probably the smallest of all gathered here now. She observes the Iron Dragons as one by one they pop in... one entry being far more intriguing than other but none the less it seems they all do like a little bit of a theatrical entry... but perhaps they do deserve some drama.
The small Gnome sports purple pink hair that sticks our in nearly all directions. The vibrant greens she wares makes it obvious that she's the druid of the Black Lions. Next to her stands a medium sized young treant like plant. This one obviously won't leave her side.
"Hail and well met", she says, "my name is Aexana... I hail from Plateau City where my daughter now looks after our little herbal shop... ", as she says that she starts taking one wooden flask after the other from her Pant's 'o Plenty, "... got things for warts, lovepotions, ointments for those who sat too long in the saddle, potions for practical jokes... can't believe how much that sells in Plateau City!! ... we once had a military guard buying a couple of mild Shakes potions... man did we have a laugh when it turned out the military had their annual shooting contest... oh well... sorry...
I once travelled to the Taur Islands for finding out if Taurs in general were to be considered humans or animals... first ones I bumped into were Zeoll here and Magana... Having travelled a bit with Zeoll I thought I had seen at least some proof that Taurs are humanoids... but... , she turns her big green bulging eyes at Zane... she coughs lightly... "... but that was before I laid eyes on you Master Zane, no offens please."
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 7:18:46 PM
Bralin Stoneminder is a sturdily built dwarf with a black beard, encased in dull black platemail, and sporting a dull black shield unadorned with any emblem. He carries a waraxe.
Having already introduced himself, he relies on Zeoll and Rill to carry the conversation.
Dutifully entering the chamber, the dwarf waves off the servants, helps himself to a couple platefuls of food, and a mug of ale, and finds himself a hard bench to sit upon.
Munching on a leg of something, Bralin waits.
Beriothian the Druid Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 9:18:44 PM
Beriothian passes on Garret's armpit bread, but does help himself to a pint of ale, garlic mashed potatoes, and some lovely bacon wrapped meat that almost melts in ones mouth.
He decides to pass at sitting in a formal wood dining chair, and instead finds an overstuffed leather chair he can sink into and let's his weary muscles sink into it, almost as if floating on a cloud. From his comfy seat he turns to the giant taur.
Bosk, would you like to do the honors in explaining why we are here?
(Brock) Jozhur AC23 / Touch 16 Flat 16--CMD 27--HP 111/111 --Shadow Companion 43/55hp Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 9:33:16 PM
Seeing all the new faces, Jozhur decides to introduce himself. He keeps it short when there is a moment in the conversations, "Jozhur, of the Black Lions", and he gives a little wave to everyone. He is a human of about average height and build with fair skin and a shaggy mop of jet black hair. A short sword and a sap hang from his belt and a longbow is slung on his back.
Jozhur grabs an ale with a little food and has a seat, propping his bow against the table. He expects they are all here for something other than celebration, so he just waits.
DM Kathy Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 10:12:10 PM
The introductions continue. Restlin conjures a more comfortable place to meet, and invites everyone inside, where there is a delicious feast and servants to serve it. You begin making yourselves comfortable, continue getting acquainted, and, in some cases, wonder why you're here.
Gimp also saunters into the room, hands in pockets, which looks odd because technically he doesn't have any pockets. He nods and grins but for the moment seems to have nothing to add.
Sesha, Emissary of Serenbeth Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 11:07:33 PM
If comfort was the call, Sesha was tempted to oblige. Instead, she acts with formality, and remains standing for their business with Black Lions. When Beri asks Bosk to "get started", she grimaces a little.
"Before that, a quick word of appreciation. Thank you for allowing us the benefit of your company so soon after such a taxing ordeal. It means a lot to us, and those whom we represent, that you are willing to put your own needs aside, even for a short time, for those you do not know. That's perhaps, part of why we are here. At any rate, thank you all."
Bosk DeOx of Hook City (James D) Wednesday July 4th, 2018 12:49:14 AM
I sit down at the table with a large ale as I gather my thoughts.
Greetings everyone! Please, help yourselves to a drink and have a seat. I'm not much for long speeches. It was always said that I am The Hand of Gargul. There is a reason no one has ever called me his mouth.
Before we get to far into things, let me introduce myself. I am Bosk DeOx. I grew up on Minotaur Isle, the son of Cenoios and Adatia. My father was was known across the island for his talents at wine making, and it had always been my dream to follow in his foot steps and take over the vineyard when I reached adult hood. One night I was awakened by the panicked screams of my mother. When I arrived outside my parents room I could already smell the blood. At the time, neither his father nor the murder were to be found. At the time he had been out tending the vines, but the village did not believe him. That week my father was put to death for her murder.
To make a long story short, of Gargul's Grims cleared him and at that time I dedicated my life to repaying that debt, heping those in as desperate a need, and to restore the honor which was lost back to my father's name. After today, I think I can finally say I have accomplished that last one.
Today we are hear to learn about your goals and desires and to see where they might overlap with our own. I have been following you since he beginning, though at that time there was almost as much worry you would grow into rather troublesome pirates threatening the Taur Islands and their shipments of the sacred blue wine of Imod...but we can talk about all that later. For now, please tell us about yourselves as individuals and as a group. How do you work together and what impression you hope your footprints will have left upon the Wold.
Rill (MarkB) HP 111/111 - AC 25/15/23 CMD 23 Wednesday July 4th, 2018 2:13:38 AM
Rill is not sure where this is all headed. Is this some sort of game with these people? Gimp is here - is this some sort of test? In any event, these seem to be nice folks.
”You are all gracious to offer us hospitality and to share your stories. You ask where we come from and where we are going. I suppose it will be up to you to determine if our goals match yours or even why that is important.
“I grew up in Bonetown, the son of a wealthy banking family, or at least what passes for banking in a pirate town. Initially I was given in service to the church of Ffloy but the meaningless deaths of my older brothers turned my thoughts to the God of Death, and indeed it seems Gargul had other plans for me. He used me as a vessel to rebuke the high priest of Gargul there, and when my Lord struck the man blind for his sins, I served as his eyes for a time. The man repented and turned the Church of Gargul there from a place that profited from death to one that celebrated life and taught respect for death as it sought to serve the poor in Bonetown. Those were lean time for our church, but there was much joy in serving others. I grew to know Gargul’s role as the Lord of Life and Death, and I leaned much during that time - mostly about myself.
“One day, the blind priest told me it was time for me to move beyond serving as his eyes. He told me that I should seek out the crew of the Lionfish as he had heard good things about them, which is no small thing in a pirate town. I did so, and they welcomed me warmly - with bacon! Zeoll was there, as were Jozhur, Terser and Aexana.”
Rill nods to each.
“The minotaurs Magana and Coerator were there too. I sure miss Magana.
“Since then, I have had the privilege of travelling with my friends aboard the Lionfish, and we have consistently sought to do good in the Wold - meaningful good. But I am not here to praise myself, or to sing of our exploits. I seek a life of service, and to teach the Wold that Gargul is the God of Life as well as Death.
I believe my Lord has brought me together with these companions and filled me with divine power for their protection and support. Together we possess great power. I would like to say that I serve as a moral compass for our group, but there has never been a need for such as we are all aligned already. Indeed, it is they that continue to teach me about compassion, respect and moving beyond my own prejudices. Heck, I’m even travelling with a bloodwitch and a shadowdancer that has an undead sidekick - pretty good for an Eye of Gargul!
“I’m not really sure if that answers your questions. If not, please let me know what else you need to know from me.”
Katinka 'Tink' Hushfoot -- RobC Wednesday July 4th, 2018 7:05:00 AM
Tink nods to each of the crew as they introduce themselves. She's quite genuinely glad to meet them.
In terms of seating Tink positions herself such that she can see each person. It's a habit (perhaps good, perhaps bad) that she can't seem to shake
Tink looks for a bowl of beef stew - something she has been craving - and eats it somewhat delicately.
She nods along as Bosk asks his questions. Tink finishes chewing a chuck of meat before opening her mouth "Yes. It would be interesting to hear of your history and your path for the future. How do you think your actions will be remembered in years to come? What deeds are you yet to do?"
Tink listens very carefully as each person speaks and watches them quite intently. You have her full attention as the stew starts to cool.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 136/136 Wednesday July 4th, 2018 7:37:23 AM
Tahni isn't quite sure where to begin. How does her life compare to that of Bosk? What has she achieved that she can be proud of? Since it is the Iron Dragons asking Tahni goes for blunt truth. Having Gimp here makes things a little more intimidating.
"I'm not sure where to begin. I've always wanted to be there to protect others but I just don't possess the physical strength of those around me. I like to think that there are other ways I can offer aid. Treating wounds, summoning aid, or simply being there as a friend."
Tahni starts to recount her past "When I first left home it was with a close group of friends. We had hoped to bring some semblance of peace and hope to the wild lands of the Scab. Some things just cannot be tamed. Sure, we had victories but the losses may have outnumbered them."
"It's during loss that you discover your strength though and the will to go on. For me it is to find someone close to me" You can already see Tahni's eyes start to get a little watery. Her past still haunts her, and the raw pain of being separated from Bruagh - the one she was destined to be with - still stings.
She goes back to answer Bosk's questions
"I may not have known my friends here as long as some, but they have taken me in as one of their own. To have people close to you, who stand with you, who fight with you, who care for you. How do we work together? Well, I haven't said as much, but I'd like to think as family"
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Wednesday July 4th, 2018 10:04:48 AM
Bralin sits still through Bosk's speech, waiting patiently for the taur to get to the point of this conference. The taur does not, and the dwarf is content to wait some more, until Katinka asks a more direct question.
"We will be remembered as they choose to remember us. Tis not ours to say or to dwell upon. Deeds undone...now that is a worthy tale.
The gods have led me to many lands, many peoples. The list would be most impressive but for friend Zeoll. In all places, there are innocents, those preyed upon by the strong to become more strong. I have fought against them where I could.
Of late, the Black Lions have come to grips with the slavers plying the seas and coasts. Tis repellent, the slave trade. T'would be a mighty task indeed to remove it from the Wold."
Garret Goodbarrel Wednesday July 4th, 2018 12:09:37 PM
Garret tries to pay attention to the talking, but the food is too distracting. Leaving the armpit bread where it is, he helps himself to a few bits of food...including shoving a leg of meat into his rope belt for later. When he has too much for for his hands, he pulls out the armpit bread, gives it a sniff, shrugs, and then wraps the armpit bread around another piece of meat. He offers it around in case anyone else didn't get enough yet.
Zane Stormfront Wednesday July 4th, 2018 3:05:30 PM
Zane settles in, near enough to Aexana that he can carry on a quiet conversation while the other's continue with the main discussion of matters, and the two of them can also add their two coppers too.... "Well miss Aexana, I'd dare say you are correct that 'Taurs are people as much as any of the races that have conscious thought. My mother was herself a Warship Captain, even when sailing to the far side of the Wold she didn't a pregnancy stop her. Years ago, she and her crew were tasked to stop a den of Pirates, the only problem, their home port was rumored to be on the Southern Continent. Not letting that stop her She set sail on her ship "Stormfront" for the base. You do know about the difficulties in crossing the edge from the North to the South right? Well anyways I was found floating on the Stern wall of the Stormfront as a baby. It didn't fare well in the crossing is current consensus. I discovered as I grew up I was not a typical 'Taur. I've met my mother's family, so I know that they are full minotaurs. But that was only a few years ago. I've also discovered I'm not comfortable in Imod City, I was raised too far from what the residents expect from a fellow 'Taur. I also discovered that my Father appeared to be a 'Taur as well when he was seen with my mother. But I've also discovered it was not the truth. I havn't found out if he is a half-dragon or is a full dragon using a shape change to seem to be a 'Taur, I have found out that he was at least part Bronze Dragon, and my heritage shows. Even before is became so obvious, I had a tattoo that hinted at it, but that's covered for now...." As the other conversation continues, Zane adds to that as well.... "So you see yourselves dedicating yourselves to ridding the seas of the Slave trade? What about other things that effect the Wold" Zane has obviously learned the trick of carrying on more than 1 conversation, it might be something learned when he was crewing a ship or maybe somewhere else....
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Wednesday July 4th, 2018 7:23:16 PM
The little greenmage literally hangs on Zane's lips as he tells about his past... this one truly radiates power while he just sits there... the little lass, all be she 73 years old, is bedazzled...
She shakes her head and tries not too look too goofy and then attempts to follow the ongoing discussions again... It strikes her that this is no normal gathering... the questions asked are not easy to answer...
She on her turn tries to answer each question honestly...
"You ask many questions... to Sir Bosk's question on how we work together I am afraid the answer to this date is not ideal. It does not feel like we are working as one mind... perhaps we are still more individuals. We fight for each other yes! And we will protect and help each other and all others if we can, but I think we could rise to something far stronger should we think as one... act as one... fight as a team... I myself sometimes questioning my role. Am I a spell-weaver who tries to master the elements or should I support my friends with buffs... What good can I be for my friends... I am sure you could give us some advise on this.
I do not understand Miss Katinka's... Tink's... question. I feel no need to be remembered for any deed we did or will do. It is not my goal looking for 'deed to fulfil'... I will sail where the wind blows us and should I find beings - be it humanoid, plant or animals - that could use our help I will try to offer it. Why would I want to fulfil deeds that will make me be remembered in years to come when I have not lived?!?
She smiles as the armpit bread is offered to her but she respectfully declines... And then she turns to Zane... a light shiver runs down her spine again as she looks up at him... she feels even more tiny now that he sits right beside her...
"Ah... Master Zane... dedicating ourselves to things that affect the Wold... I am but a humble greenmage... I have a little shop selling ointments and oils to those who need a little help. I stumbled upon the Black Lions when I visited the Taur Isles... I am not what you can call a hero such as yourselves... I am but a grain of sand on a windy beach... I travel where the wind will blow me. If Mother Wold desires me to help her I will try my best. But I am no where near as strong as you are... I can not carry the weight of the Wold... but... I will help carrying the load...
But allow me please to ask you something in return...
Why is it, that the Iron Dragons take interest in us?? I will not speak for the Black Lions, but only for myself, I am no hero... What good can I be to you... "
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Wednesday July 4th, 2018 7:33:50 PM
Rill, Tahni, Aexana, and Bralin have offered their visions for where they have been, and where they might go.
"Come now, Jozhurr, and Terrserr." The old taur seems determined to coax all his friends to speak up.
Restlin the Mendicant Wednesday July 4th, 2018 8:22:58 PM "Psshhh..." says Restlin at Aexana's comments about not working together. "Some groups have a clear leadership structure and work as one, but that's not the Iron Dragons either. We have faith in each other's capabilities and know what to expect of each other. That's what we rely on, and its served us well."
Beriothian the Druid Wednesday July 4th, 2018 9:56:47 PM
The druid shrugs from within his easy chair. It has been my experience that people tend to blur the distinction of fighting as a team and fighting as one more than they should. To fight as one can take a life time to truly achieve if you have not been trained to do so from birth. Coming together as a team, well that's another matter entirely.
I could spend hours recanting the the numerous times I've seen parties needlessly destroy themselves, but in the end the the lesson is the same, and they would all have been fine had they changed one simple thing. Time and again you will see alice starts casting a heal spell, while Bob walks blindly into the next room, and Charlie tops it off my messing with the shiny object next to the "Do not touch" sign.
Of course, the lesson isn't so much what the party needs to do, but that they need to do it together to succeed. Even a group that has a tendency not to fight as one will find that when they stay together the rest falls into place because they haven't sabotaged their options even before they started. Then, as you get used knowing there are others who have your back... not just willing, but actually in position to do so when needed, your strategies start to build on that support and it continues to snowball the longer you are at eachother's side.
DM Kathy Wednesday July 4th, 2018 11:07:50 PM
As the "getting-to-know-you" process intensifies, Bosk asks the Black Lions each to share something about themselves. Rill, Tahni, Bralin, and Aexana oblige. Zeoll is already known to the Iron Dragons. It remains for Terser and Jozhur to speak up.
The discussion turns to working as a team, always a difficult issue among adventuring groups, which tend to be comprised of strong-willed individuals....
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Thursday July 5th, 2018 12:22:25 AM I'm not known for being a talkative one either, Bosk. Maybe because my mouth got me in a fair bit of trouble in my youth. I give no last name because I was expelled from my family. I wasn't doing our nameany favors. They tried putting me in the priesthood, but that didn't take either.
Eventually, I found a new family with Tahni, and Bruagh, and Sam, and all the others. And I found it much more fulfilling to keep them safe from harm than any other thing I had done. My family has grown and shrunk, and now exists in these fine folk. And I still do my best day in and day out to keep them from harm. I tend leave the thinking and planning to the Captain.
Katinka 'Tink' Hushfoot -- RobC Thursday July 5th, 2018 12:23:04 AM
Tink nods to Restlin. He summed things up quite nicely and succinctly.
It is Aexana that gets to the point though. "Why we take interest in you? A fair and direct question" Tink gives a knowing grin "There is something we wish to discuss. A proposal, if you will. Not something that we would talk about with just any group of heroes"
With that teaser Tink hands over to one of the other Iron Dragons to continue.
Zane Stormfront Thursday July 5th, 2018 2:17:07 AM "We, represent a certain group of dare I say "Old" Adventurers, well maybe rather experienced might be more apt. Where they look out for more than just the region of the Wold that you are familiar with. They look out for problems that are Wold Wide. Although not as all encompassing as the Red Grass that we, and I mean all of the groups, just dealt with." Zane leaves the next part to be picked up by someone else.....
Restlin the Mendicant Thursday July 5th, 2018 10:07:34 AM "The Dragons," blurts out Restlin, getting to the point. "We're here to invite you to join The Dragons. The higher ups in our organization feel you folks are ready to be considered for membership. It's not a decision that's taken lightly, so you folks must have pulled off some impressive hijinks. Typically these invitations are made with some thoroughfare, but you got stuck with us, and we don't know you. That's why we're all sitting down and getting to know one another.
"So, now that that's out of the way let's get down to business. The perks of membership are pretty impressive. Your own stronghold, telepathic rings, the fact that civilized society everywhere makes a huge fuss about you when you show up...we realized that last one the hard way. Spoiler alert: if you're going to make a trip as Dragons to a major city, announce you're coming ahead of time. We basically ground the administration of Plateau City to a halt by showing up unannounced. Got this nice suit out of it, though.
"Anyway, I'd like to hear what you all have accomplished. Who's your head cheerleader? You do have a head cheerleader, right? Don't tell me you're all the humble sort..."
Garret Goodbarrel Thursday July 5th, 2018 11:26:36 AM
Garret continues eating and wandering about the room, clearly way too full of energy to sit still. He says little, but tries to pay attention to everything that's going on. When he notices Bralin eating a leg of meat, he wanders over, points to it, and says, "You gonna finish that?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Thursday July 5th, 2018 12:03:49 PM I'd say Zeoll is the main cheerer - but he's not much for high kicks at his age. He did have that hag "friend" who shook some pompoms at us, but I think she was rooting for the other side.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday July 5th, 2018 2:31:05 PM
Rill finds these people puzzling. They talk about teamwork, and yet they all seem to be approaching this invitation from completely different, uncoordinated directions. One of them is much more interested in the food than in us. Another says he's been following us from the beginning, and still another says they know nothing about us. And the fancy guys says we got stuck with them as a poor representative of the Dragon Consortium.
Hmmm. This must all be part the test. Rill chooses his words carefully.
"I am honored by your invitation. You want to know what we've done to see if we are worthy of being admitted to your organization. That certainly seems fair.
"We are the Black Lions. As you know, we hail from the pirate city of Bonetown. In addition to working in Bonetown to effect change there, our responsibilities in the Wold have taken us far from that place.
"Since I've been with the Black Lions, we have put down a corrupt shipping guild. We have rescued a sentient stone from another world that a would-be god sought to use to elevate himself to godhood. Later, we put down that same would-be god before they could subjugate the seas and peoples of the Wold. We have journeyed to Ice Peak in the Ice Vein. There we sought the counsel of Frigga'Isa, were seen and judged by the Powers Burfell and Celciun, and defeated a ja’Kollu Iss’Wyrm to close a portal with that place. We have earned the trust of the Pirates of Jack. We have defeated ships full of undead that plied the Middle Seas. We put down a slaving ring, freed the slaves, and fought in the arena in Dirt City. And finally, we joined you in the battle for the Sargrass. Most recently, our entire group has been named Dwarf-kin thanks to Bralin here.
“But perhaps our greatest achievement to date is that, through everything, we get to experience all of the weird things that Zeoll summons from the Land of Fey. As Terser noted, you really haven't lived until you seen a liontaur summon a Night Hag who shows up in a cheerleading outfit to root for the other side.”
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Thursday July 5th, 2018 3:29:50 PM
Bralin snorts into his ale. He'd forgotten about the night hag.
The dwarf is unoffended by Garret's question, but he's not about to give up a perfectly roast leg of meat. "Aye" he replies, and takes an extra large bite for emphasis.
"Rill has the gist of it," Bralin comments between bites. "The Black Lions have performed many a mighty deed, and by the grace of the gods, will perform many more. To be considered for membership to the Dragons is a great honor. But at the moment, I must say I am perplexed by our suddenly reluctant taur.
What say you, Zeoll. Why are you so quiet?"
(Brock) Jozhur AC23 / Touch 16 Flat 16--CMD 27--HP 111/111 --Shadow Companion 43/55hp Thursday July 5th, 2018 6:33:13 PM
Jozhur appears deep in thought as Rill speaks, as if all of their accomplishments are just now dawning on him.
He takes a moment to ponder things and pipes in when he has a chance, "I grew up living out of doors in South Harbor. I made it by day to day stealing what I needed. I was able to hop a ship to Rum to try to start over, but it was lost in a storm and I washed up near Bonetown."
He pauses a moment in apparent reflection, "I first joined this group for a bit of adventure. Some faces have changed, but we have always worked to help anyone, or thing, in need. No good deed has ever been too big or small. In addition to Rill's list, we've stood up for a bullied barmaid, worked to reunite some of the freed slaves with their families, and I'm sure many other things I don't even remember."
He then addresses Restlin, "None of us are really the flashy sort, nor do we really care if we are recognized for what we do. A little 'thank you' now and then is good enough. This is probably what makes us work so well together. No one is hounding for attention and we all seem to know are roles pretty well by now."
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Thursday July 5th, 2018 7:01:07 PM
Zeoll is glad that Jozhur, captain of the Lionfish before Zeoll himself put on the captain's hat, longest-serving of the Bonetown crew, opens his heart.
The old liontaur smiles at Rill's gentle teasing, and then nods to loyal Bralin, who has sensed Zeoll's reservations. The taur sets aside his tower shield and stands, joints crackling as he gets up.
"Some of you, my frriends, have hearrd some or all of my tale of yearrs, and so I apologize that you must hearr it again. To otherrs this tale is new, and I apologize morre deeply forr inflicting it on you." Zeoll smiles ruefully. "The old will rramble on, I know, so forrgive me in advance."
"In my youth I grrew up on the smallest of the Taur Isles, Liontaurr Island, wherre to this day my people are squeezed into a small poorr land, herding goats or hunting harres, currsed still by the hell hounds that plague us. On that tight, unferrtile island we perrsist. In my youth I wrrote a song about it, a song you still hearr frrom time to time."
The old taur sings a line from an old tune: "Then may the Wemics be freed."
"In those youthful days, noble Domi Himself charrged my adventurring grroup -- the Chosen of Domi we named ourrselves in ourr prride -- with a mission: to unite the taurr races in brrotherhood. It was a noble goal, and I felt that frreedom forr my people would follow. But alas, that quest was thrrice failed.
"Firrst, that thrrough my own rrecklessness, I died."
"Second, that afterr severral yearrs dead in the Lands of Rrest, I rreturrned, suborrned and corrrupted by Marrteaus the Diseased, currse his name. Against my will he coerrced and recrruited me as a spy, and I rreported all that we did to him, and, unable to stop myself, betrrayed my frriends."
"Thirrd and finally, inforrmed by my rreporrts, Marteaus caused an evil parrty of villains to oppose all we did, and ... " the old taur pauses to compose himself. "And my frriends werre distracted, defeated, and demorralized. The Chosen of Domi failed and disperrsed. Captain Brrahmah alone among us won honorr, laterr, with the Herroes of Blackbirrd Lake."
"I found my way, purrged at last of the evil compulsion, to the Sarrgrass Plains, wherre I met the Irron Adventurrerrs. We did well in the South, did we not? And I was glad to forrget the Norrth, and to help rring the Chaos Bell. That Bell sent me back to the Taurr Isles, however, and to Bonetown, and to my memorries. And herre too, the Lionfisherrs have done well, defeating pirrates, slaverrs, and an evil immorrtal."
"But I have to tell you, my frriends, that I look back on my life, and I am grrieved that the Taurr rraces still nurrse grrudges and violence in theirr hearrts against theirr fellows. And I am saddened to see my people still caged on Liontaurr Island."
"And I know what it means to join the Drragon Consorrtium. It means giving up local concerrns. It means serrving the entirre Wold. And in the Drragon Consorrtium I would need to give up my old drream of frreedom forr liontaurrs and amity among all taurrs. Perrhaps I have alrready given it up."
"Still, forr me, the choice is this:"
"Turrn down this honorr. Stay in the Middle Seas. End slaverry herre. Make of Bonetown a new, betterr countrry. And maybe brring my people, orr at least those who want to go, to the larrge islands nearr Bonetown, rrich in land and game. Offerr my people peace and honorr and frreedom at last."
"Orr, join the Consorrtium. Visit Fae Skimierr. And be rresponsible forr the whole Wold, wherrever herroes arre needed, not favorring any one rrace orr people, being of all lands, not one."
"But I do not, can not, make a decision forr my frriends, who do not sharre my old shames and rregrrets. So I find myself torrn, verry torrn. I am sorrry."
Zeoll sits down.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Thursday July 5th, 2018 7:47:14 PM
... join the Dragon Consortium...
The words keep ringing in Aexana's ears... she's puzzled... has she come to the right place?!?
"I guess Master Restlin I'll be the humble quite one... I don't know what it takes to be worthy of joining the Dragons and carrying the weight of the Wold nor do I understand why we, or at least I, was chosen for this honour. But like I said... I am a grain of sand on a windy beach... I am 73... my daughter takes care of the shop and while it was my ambition to start franchising our business to other towns I guess it is now her job... so if you are sure you are talking to the right group of travellers, I'd love to learn more about what it takes for joining the dragons
However, my wind sails with the Lionfish Crew and I will follow my friends and our Cptn Zeoll. "
Beriothian the Druid Thursday July 5th, 2018 10:18:18 PM
The druid listens and nods at Aexana. Well, we'll get into the details of what it takes to join in a minute. Needless to say, the Dragons have had their eyes on you for some time now, as we do with many groups as tales of their valor spread across the realms. We watch as these groups either grow stronger or fall apart, and make sure that their hearts truly are as good as in the songs sung about them. But in the end it was your bravery and heroic actions in the great battle to defend the Wold that has brought us to you today.
DM Kathy Thursday July 5th, 2018 11:21:39 PM
The introductions complete, the Black Lions confess that they don't really have a cheerleader, unless you count that Hag (it was a Sea Hag, by the way, not a Night Hag).
But the Iron Dragons move on to the main point of their visit--an invitation to join the Dragon Consortium! Such an offer is not to be taken lightly, and the Black Lions have much to think about and discuss.
Bosk DeOx of Hook City (James D) Thursday July 5th, 2018 11:29:15 PM
Bosk waits until Terser and Jozhur speak before looking at the rest of the Iron Dragons. The glance only lasts a fraction of a second, and it is the type of look that can only be exchanged by the closest of companions built over many journeys. Although their expressions never change, it is clear that each knows exactly what the other is thinking. Suddenly Restlin reveals the groups intention, his excitement outshining his usually guilded tongue.
I should note that we have sealed the room. The Consortium has powerful enemies. I wanted to be sure that there was no scrying or other means available to them to know what we discuss tonight. It will be public news, no doubt, no matter of the results of this meeting, but the longer it can be kept to those within this room the better.
As was done by my predecessor before me, I sit rather than stand because I want to make the point that I consider us all equals here. Aexana, As Restlin said, we are here because the time of the Red, Gold, Storm and Emerald Dragons has past. Now is the time for the Iron Dragons and those who would ally with them. Today you have seen one example of the evil that prowls about the Wold seeking the ruin of all we fight to protect. We want you to join the Dragon Consortium with all that means both good and difficult.
As Zeoll said, there might come a time where you must choose between local concerns and helping the Wold. Each set of Dagons chooses where they are located. It is important for people to see our presence in all places and to know that people of all backgrounds, races, religions and creeds can work together and rise up to serve the greater good. There is no reason you cannot keep serving where you are. You might even be able to have a floating fortress on the sea, but you will also be called from time to time to serve those farther from home.
As far as recognition, I am afraid that is something you will not be able to avoid. It is important people see the forces for good acting in the Wold even more than they see those working against us. Our name can be their hope and give them strength even when we are not physically there.
He pauses looking each in the eye, serious of demeanor
Rill
Tahni
Bralin
Aexana
Zeoll
Terser
Jozhur
I am certain you have many questions for us. We will stay all night if need to be answer them for you. After that, we will give you all the time you need to talk to each other and make your decision.
I ask that you do not immediately come out with a yes or no answer until all questions and answers have been discussed until each of you are content that we have told you everything and are holding nothing back and you have done the same in return. Then, we will excuse ourselves to the other room until you are done discussing matters.
So, where to begin? These talks never go the same way twice. I should mention that there is a time of trial so you can discover whether you wish to join us and we can confirm what we think we know about you already, that you are worthy. We will want you to go on two adventurers. Adventurer's worthy of a Dragon. They will test you in ways you cannot imagine and you will come out stronger for it.
Zane Stormfront Friday July 6th, 2018 12:49:03 AM "None of us, well at least not myself, felt worthy of of joining the DC. But is does bring the most out of you when you face challenges that if they became known would shake the Wold to it's Core. Before this last grand trouble that involved everyone, we were in the middle of something just like that. Hench the the short little Imp over there stuffing his hands into non-existent pockets. When we are finished answering any and all of your questions, we won't be taking a Vacation, as our earlier trouble is still waiting for us to see about handling it." In a Stage Whisper, "Ignore the halfling that seems to have two hollow legs. He seems to think that no matter how much food we have, he'll starve." With that, Zane grabs a "Zane" sized Tankard of drink and sits back.....
Katinka 'Tink' Hushfoot -- RobC Friday July 6th, 2018 5:55:54 AM
Tink, ever the serious one, brings out some concerns for the party to think about before giving their collective answer.
"I can sense some of the excitement in the room, and rightfully so. Very few heroes receive such an honor. However please keep this in mind. This is an invitation to attempt the trials. Nothing more. Others have faced the trials and failed. These are tough. Success is far from guaranteed.
Should you succeed you would become a beacon for all that is good and a sign of hope for others. However you would also become a target for evil and potentially put others at risk simply by being near you.
If as a group you decide that you would rather keep your area of influence and concerns locally, then that is a decision that would be understood and completely respected.
If as a group you decide you wish to take the trials, then we would do all that is permissible to support you."
Yep. That all oughta shift the mood a little.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 136/136 Friday July 6th, 2018 8:31:25 AM
Tahni feels herself shrink as Bosk casts his gaze her way. It's like he can see into her soul. She resists the urge to shudder, and simply starts to cast her eyes down at the table.
One of the Iron Dragon halflings seems quite jovial. The other is kind of a buzz-kill. It must take all kinds. In fact, she observes that the personalities of the Dragon's are all very different. Perhaps that kind of diversity gives strength?
She feels better hearing that Zane didn't feel worthy of joining. After all, he turned out alright.
Tahni does take Bosk up on his offer of asking questions "What were your tests like?" she asks more meekly than intended.
Restlin the Mendicant Friday July 6th, 2018 10:19:59 AM
Restlin's eyes light up at Tahni's question. "They were awesome. We fought liches. We battled an umbral dragon in Jehricho space in this place where physics just...stopped. I shoved my soul into a giant, flaming space whale. We rescued a former enemy, new found ally from Fae Skimier and battled through Mythal." He sighs and sits back. "It was all incredibly dangerous, of course. It got Beri here killed and many of us darn near joined him. Then there was all that whale vomit...ugh. The challenges have torn other groups apart. Sesha knows a thing or two about that, but she really hasn't discussed it in depth with us. You should know going in that you're going to be given tasks the Dragon Consortium think are just a little bit beyond your abilities, and it's your job to show they're wrong."
Garret Goodbarrel Friday July 6th, 2018 11:36:40 AM
Garret seems pleased that the dwarf is going to finish his meat.
Then Garret senses that things have gotten much more serious in the room. He tries to put on his serious face and takes a seat in the corner. Unfortunately, it has been awhile since he's eaten and he really has eaten his fill (and that of a couple others). He tries to keep his eyes open, but the food coma is really starting to take over...
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Friday July 6th, 2018 12:06:40 PM "I believe we have a responsibility to undertake these trials. For reasons that have not always been clear, my Lord Gargul has seen fit to continually direct my path and increase my power and abilities. None of this have I asked for, nor do I feel it is deserved because of who I am. But I have never turned away from what my God has called me to do. I cannot ignore this call either. I also know I cannot do this alone.
"I do not fear death, and I do not fear failure if we are together. But I do fear one thing - I fear going into this if we are not of one accord.
“Zeoll, ever since I’ve known you, we have been called to address issues bigger than ourselves and our interests. Not once have I seen you balk because it would impede your ability to serve your people, and in fact some of these threats were also threats to the taurs and the Middle Seas. I do not believe the Gods would call you to this place if it also meant turning your back on what matters to you. In fact, I think it is what matter to you that has brought you here.
“Aexana - you have said that you are nothing, you are but a grain of sand on a beach. I think you know in your heart that this is not true, but those whispers may be holding you back - ignore them. I have seen you in battle, and nothing holds you back when what you care about is on the line. I encourage you to step into this, to embrace who you are called to be, to embrace the example you need to set for your daughter. She will face trials in her life and she will need the example of what you decide today to strengthen her.
“Jozhur, you have an adventurer’s heart and a hero’s soul. You said yourself that ‘No good deed has ever been too big or small.’ Nothing motivates you more than putting yourself between the weak and defenseless and those that would do them harm.
“Bralin and Terser, in the time I’ve known you, neither of you have ever backed off from a fight that was noble and just. And never have I seen either of you hesitate when one of us was in trouble. Bralin is usually the first to charge in and take the brunt of an attack, and Terser has never hesitated to put his life on the line to protect one of us.
“Tahni, you like to say you are small and weak, but you call on arcane and divine energies none of us can access. I do not doubt your abilities or your resolve.
“The Gods would not have called all of us here if it were not necessary and right. I trust them in this. If we succeed, then it was meant to be. And if not, then the trials served their purpose. For it is written, ‘Do not fear death. Fear instead a wasted life.’
Remember, nothing pisses Gargul off more than showing up in front of him because of what you DIDN’T do, right Gimp?”
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Friday July 6th, 2018 12:51:40 PM
Aexana was ready to sign her name on the contract... but then Tink speaks of trials... ouch... this is not going to be as easy as it sounded at first. And when Restlin chimes in Aex shivers just a little bit...
But then Rill speaks up... never before had she heard the Soulseeker speak to her and her friends like this. The cleric of Gargul just radiates with power as he speaks and Aexana can feel the warmth growing inside her...
"Do not fear death... Fear instead a wasted lide"
His words keep ringing in her head...
"... I shall join you my friend... ", Aexana says.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Friday July 6th, 2018 2:15:27 PM
Zeoll nods to Tink gratefully when she says that declining the invitations "would be understood and completely respected."
He sighs at Rill's words. "My frriend, you do a disserrvice to herroes outside the Consorrtium. Did my old captain, Brrahmah, rreknowned farr and wide, waste his life? Did Peerrimus and Xenia, Childrren of Chaos? Did Monthorr or Vedik, of the Grrey Knights, both famed in tales of courrage?" He smiles to soften his chiding a little.
"But let me not discourrage yourr passion, my frriend. I too feel the call to take up this invitation."
"One of the things I have learrned in a long adventurring life," Zeoll says, thoughtfully, "is that no herro succeeds alone. Maybe it is possible to do it all, serrve the Wold and make the Middle Seas a betterr place, both at the same time, if you have enough frriends to help you do the job."
"As forr the tests, of courrse they will be challenges, but fearr not, Aexana and Tahni. Have we not worrked as a team to help defeat two demigods alrready? Let us not be prroud, but false modesty serrves us poorrly as well."
The old liontaur turns to Zane and Bosk, the other two taurs present. "My brrotherrs, is the timing urrgent? Or would we have weeks orr months to prreparre, we magic item crrafterrs and would-be politicians? Alrready therre arre folk frrom the Aisildurr shorres to Pearrl Island who depend on us, forrmerr slaves and orrphans we must securre."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Friday July 6th, 2018 3:05:29 PM
Aex looks up as Zeoll asks if there's time to craft... she has used quite a lot of potions during the last encounters and with her newly learned skills she could craft even more powerful things. She's even considering crafting some ironwood armor for Leafy... who knows... could be handy if Bralin goes berserk again... (she did not say that out loud of course ;-) )
Zane Stormfront Friday July 6th, 2018 4:05:17 PM "It was our job to bring up the subject and offer you lot the chance to accept the Trials. Whatever your Trials or when they will be, I know that I do not know. I am fairly certain that you will be given all of five minutes to prepare when an appropriate challenge for a prospective Dragon Consortium to tackle as a trial. Actually, I think we had like 2 or 3 hours. If I remember correctly, Bosk made a quick run to the Catacombs. Of course that's one benefit of living in a big City, as one of the entrances is only a couple blocks away from our tower. Do what you need to do, that's how we handle it, if we need to respond in an emergency, well, we drop what we're doing and go.....
If you ever see me dropping from about the 5th floor of our tower, the same level as our ship, for the front door, I'm in a rush. When it's not urgent, I use the inside stairs." He ruffles his wings to indicate how he drops that far without hurting himself.
(Brock) Jozhur AC23 / Touch 16 Flat 16--CMD 27--HP 111/111 --Shadow Companion 43/55hp Friday July 6th, 2018 4:48:09 PM
Jozhur listens closely to Restlin's description of their trials, this clearly has his attention. Rill pretty much seals the deal, he is sold on it. "Any threat to the Wold is a threat to my home, I suppose. I wouldn't leave you all to face any of it without me." He grins and continues, "Besides, this sounds like a blast. I never would have imagined being placed in this position, but I feel its our duty now."
He feels he should ask questions, but he doesn't know what to ask. The beginning process has been explained, they would just have to go from there.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Friday July 6th, 2018 4:59:37 PM
Terser also needs some time to work on his equipment. It's been quite a while since he's been to the catacombs, and a lot of his pieces are outdated or even useless now! He thinks he hears some clamoring from the bag around his neck too, as if something in there wants to be allowed to grow.
Terser revels in the praise from his companions, not that he needs it to be motivated to protect them. But still, another thing Rill says strikes him a bit. Did the Gods really bring them here? Were they acting through the Dragon Consortium to expand their ability to respond to the things that plague the Wold? Or is it really just a group of heroes acting in what they think is in the best interest of all the Wold's inhabitants?
Terser certainly doesn't feel compelled by any Gods to be here, but he understands why Rill feels so. Still, the reasons to join don't have to all be the same. So long as they all do want to.
If it means that I can protect those I care about and those who can't protect themselves, then I'm in.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Friday July 6th, 2018 7:03:56 PM
Zeoll ponders in deep thought, trying to remember stories of the Gold Dragons from long ago. It takes him a little time to recall the old legends. Then memory comes to him.
"I rrecall that in the Tales of the Gold Drragons beforre they became the Platinum Drragons, only Valdorr Drragonstone, Morrdrid, Joe Hand, and Mycrroft were accounted as Gold Drragons. The otherrs of theirr band, Shirrri the Hooded, Dahlia Fastfingerrs, Fatherr Nick Valentine, and Dae'lin Shadowstep, werre held to be "Frriends of Drragons," rrespected in frraterrnity, but unbound by the oaths and obligations of the Drragon Consorrtium."
The old liontaur looks around at the Iron Dragons. "Would that be an option? Those committing to this path would be Drragon Herroes, and those who accompany them unsworrn would be Drragon Frriends?"
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Friday July 6th, 2018 8:08:39 PM
Bralin rises.
"I would stake my comrades against any group in the Wold, Dragons or no," he declares, raising his mug to the Black Lions.
"And I am with Rill. To become a Dragon grants us additional means to defend the weak and oppressed, be they local or no. But mayhap to alleive Zeoll's concerns, I have questions.
"You speak of the Consortium, almost as managers of the Dragon Groups. Are we expected to abandon any task we are on, and respond to their call, or will we have discretion? Also, you speak of powerful enemies to the Consortium. Who are they? If we are to join this body, should we not have the information we need to defend ourselves?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+30=47 ; d20+30=46 d20+30=44 d20+30=34 d20+30=35 Friday July 6th, 2018 9:29:33 PM
Rill ignores Zeoll's assertion that what he said somehow degenerated people he does not know. But he is curious what it is about the Dragon Consortium that Zeoll disagrees with.
To the Iron Dragon's he says, "I am worried that my friend Zeoll here has such strong reservations about your group. I know him well enough to know it is not fear. What is it we do not know about the Dragon groups? Exactly what are these the oaths and obligations? Would they put my obligations to the Dragon Consortium at odds with my obligation to my God? The fact that Bosk and Gimp is here suggest this cannot be so."
Rill will use Sense Motive to see if there is more going on here, if the Iron Dragons, or Zeoll for that matter, are holding something back (Rolled a 47. If additional rolls are needed he also rolled 46, 44, 36, 35)
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 136/136 Friday July 6th, 2018 10:02:21 PM "Perhaps we should also have some discussions in private?" If Bosk is suggesting that the party discuss things in private then it's probably worth doing that. Further, Tahni still isn't quite sure how to say no to him.
She's all for joining the DC and wants to say yes right now. It's just that she also wants to follow the advice from a seasoned member of the Dragon Consortium.
Katinka 'Tink' Hushfoot -- RobC Friday July 6th, 2018 10:29:57 PM
Tink picks up on Rill suspicions and smiles warmly. She does what she can to ease his immediate concerns.
"The oaths are likely nothing that you would not already be doing, else the invitation would not have been extended.
We are a force for good in the Wold. Where there is evil we stop it no matter the sacrifice." How many times has Garret died lately? 2? 3? It's been a long day.
"We help those who cannot help themselves, protect them from harm, and see that all - young and old - are treated well.
We may be called upon at any time to go anywhere, so need to be ready to leave with just a moment's notice" Tink nods to Zane. His detail about leaping from the 5th level of the tower when in a rush is completely true.
"I don't foresee anything with the potential to conflict with your obligations to Gargul. If it further helps ease your concerns, He has directly been giving us tasks of late, and when done here has requested us to meet with him once more"
Rill's gut gives him the impression that the Iron Dragon's are trustworthy people.
Beriothian the Druid Friday July 6th, 2018 10:39:38 PM
The druid turns to his old friend Zeoll I believe that the current rules state that "Heroic groups are invited to the Consortium as a group; there is no individual membership". In fact, should an individual decide to leave your Dragon group and join another adventuring group, they would lose their Dragon benefits until such time that their new group might be invited to join the Consortium. I am unaware if this rule came about after the time of the Golden Dragons, or if there were specific circumstances surrounding that group's invitation to join.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Saturday July 7th, 2018 9:10:09 AM
"Ahh ... that is good to know, Berri," Zeoll says, and sighs.
"Please do not get me wrrong. You drragons arre the best of the best in the Wold! Not in might, though you arre mighty, but in hope and herroism and in aspirring to be the best we can be."
"But call me a taurr's taurr. Am I able to put the Wold ahead of my people? My motive is selfishness. Long ago I prromised to help my fellow taurrs live in peace. And I prromised to frree my wemic people frrom theirr little island. I have trried to do that by making Bonetown and the seas between therre and the Taurr Islands safe for colonists. I want to make of Bonetown a betterr place. I want to bring liontaurrs to Pearrl Island and Crrescent Island and give them wide spaces in which to settle."
"But being a Drragon ... that means bowing to higherr prriorrities, beyond the concerrns of one rregion orr one rrace, does it not?"
"But my perrsonal goals should not goverrn my grroup, eitherr."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Saturday July 7th, 2018 10:05:27 AM
Deep down Aexana understands why Zeoll is hesitating... she has always valued the Taur for his honesty and most of all his loyalty. Once his word is given there's nothing that will break it...
"Zeoll... if we are to embark on this journey it will not be without you... and only if you can wholeheartedly make the decision to join... no one can ask you to break the promises you made but the way I see it, taking the path to the Dragons does not mean you are breaking your word... on the contrary I believe.
If we stay here and focus on the well being of the Taur Isle's and Bonetown then I am convinced we will succeed in it. But how long with it last? Untill we die? What happens then? I am sure we can give the protection we want to give but what can we build to make it last? So yes the promises would be kept but from what the Iron Dragons have told us, it seems the tasks of the Dragons can affect anyone anywhere... Bonetown, the Taur isl's included. Perhaps these greater tasks will also affect your lands and bring to it the peace and prosperity you aim to fight for. "
Sesha, Emissary of Serenbeth Saturday July 7th, 2018 4:09:45 PM
Sesha had been quiet for some time, but when Zeoll speaks, she finally finds some empathy for someone here. When she speaks, her voice is even and smooth.
"Zeoll, I understand." She wasn't sure how to move forward, and was a little annoyed with the Consortium for not bothering to chaperone their first invitation.
"Joining the Dragon Consortium was the last thing I ever wanted to do. I wanted to serve the Twilight Elves. I wanted to serve Serenbeth. I wanted to serve myself, and in time, kidnap Restlin to the eternal torture of making little drow heirs for me and my House in It'lal."
She holds up a delicate hand, wiggling her slender fingers. Black skinned fingers. "I don't know to what degree Liontaurs feel exile or shame from their heritage, if any, but I know how it is for the Drow. There is not only racism and angst among the other noble races, but especially from other elves." She pauses a second for breath, then points to her heart.
"But someone explained to me that to be an emissary of your people means that you are trading goodwill and reputation as currency, and every time someone hears of the exploits of say, a Drow Witch, future Matron of her bloodline, and speaker for a dead god to boot, I believe their tolerance for such things grows."
She grins.
"And serving the consortium isn't a life sentence, my dear taur. Just like no investment goes without an eventual cash out. Restlin still isn't entirely safe from a future in my chambers, and because Zeoll decides to invest in his own tale and build a legacy that makes the noble races far and wide consider the exploits of Liontaur with wonder, it doesn't mean that he will always be stuck in that rut. And if you are saving the world and spreading your tale amongst the people of the Wold, that's can only be good for your cause."
Bosk DeOx of Hook City (James D) Saturday July 7th, 2018 10:20:00 PM
Bosk smiles. I have spoken to Gargul many times. My shadow hangs in his throne room and he has treated us to beer at the local pub. I also have the distinction of being the highest ranking Grim Avenger in the Wold. I am emissary where his realm of influence overlaps with that of Jancassis. I can't assure you that I would not take an oath that Gargul weeks disapprove of.
DM Kathy Sunday July 8th, 2018 9:23:08 PM
Your conversation continues. Tink points out that you're only being invited to be tested--and that testing can be difficult. Tahni asks what the tests were like, and Restlin has some fond reminiscences.
Rill urges his friends to act, and calls on Gimp to confirm that death through inaction is likely to anger Gargul.
"You got that right," the imp confirms. "The Boss really hates that."
One by one, Aexana, Jozhur, Terser, and Bralin throw in their lot with Rill.
Tahni would like to discuss it further in private.
Zeoll is reluctant. He became an adventurer to help the wemic people, and has gradually expanded his view to include the Middle Seas near Bonetown. But to be responsible for the entire Wold? Who will help the wemics then?
Sesha points out that, as a Dragon, Zeoll may be even better positioned to help his people, and that being a Dragon isn't a lifelong commitment.
The discussion continues....
Restlin the Mendicant Monday July 9th, 2018 10:35:32 AM
Restlin chuckles and slips an arm over Sesha's shoulder. "I can think of worse places to be locked away."
He then takes a hard look at Zeoll. "Friend, I hear your concerns, but I know you. You would lend your help to those who need it to the best of your abilities, taur or not. I've never seen you refuse such a request. Joining the Dragons would not require a change like you fear. To add to Sesha's advice, I'd say that becoming a Dragon makes you equals in our organization. If you passed the trials and became a Dragon, you could use your place among us to give your people a voice they currently lack. The words of a Dragon carry weight with all the leaders of the noble races. You won't even need to cast calm emotions to get them to talk," he adds with a grin. He looks across the other members of his group. "He told you guys about the time he burned down several blocks in Mudtown with a calm emotions spell, right?"
Restlin stretches a bit. "Anyway, we're happy to stay as long as you need to answer questions. Feel free to adjourn to another room to discuss this among yourselves in private. You have our word you'll have complete privacy." He gestures towards a closed door that almost certainly wasn't there a moment ago.
Garret Goodbarrel Monday July 9th, 2018 11:12:39 AM
With quite a loud snort, Garret scares himself awake. He looks around and smiles. He says, "So, are you dragons yet?"
Zane Stormfront Monday July 9th, 2018 11:32:05 AM
Zane gets a very large mug of something and finds a comfortable "Zane" sized chair, takes off his robe which is basically a vest and after a moment his wings also vanish. On his back is a seascape tattoo, It covers his entire back, There is a warship being assaulted by a huge storm at sea, above is a Bronze Dragon, with only the barest moment to see it, you almost think the entire tattoo is in motion, with the dragon's wings moving, the waves in motion and the ship rocking, and the Zane relaxes into the chair. "This may be too comfortable Restlin, you've seen the apparatus I usually use to relax.... Well at least to refocus." To the Bonetowners, "I find between moments of excitement that I need to recenter my focus, it keeps me from acting on the Rage that seems to live at the core of my being. The Monks at the Monastery I was raised at took years getting me to learn those lessens. Well, not learned, but thumped into my noggin hard enough many, many times, at least. They may have been harsh teachers, but the lessons suited the pupil....." He looks a little sheepish, if a part dragon can look sheepish.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Monday July 9th, 2018 2:09:27 PM "It seems that Zeoll will need to work out what it will mean for him to become a part of the Dragon Consortium, though I sense the rest of us are on board with the idea."
"Zeoll, we all support you. What is your decision? Are there ways we can help you with this?"
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Monday July 9th, 2018 3:48:56 PM
Aexana already said more than she usually does.. So for now she holds her breath andere awaits Zeoll's decision.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Monday July 9th, 2018 5:04:17 PM
Zeoll flushes and swishes his tail.
"Rreally, it's not a question. Everrybody else wants to. That's good enough forr me. I'm in."
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) d100=79 ; Monday July 9th, 2018 6:02:42 PM
Terser is glad that Zeoll will be coming along. What would they all do without the Old 'taur around to tell them stories and such. In fact, Terser takes a page out of Zeoll's book and tells and old story he heard once in his youth, hoping to draw some wisdom from the ancients.
It involved a situation much like this one, in which a young warrior had to decide whether to stay home to help his clan, or whether to go out into the world to try to make a difference for everyone. The ending seemed to be different depending on who told it, but in the end, it seemed that there is good along both paths, and left it to the listener to decide which best applied.
Tell an old tale to cast Divination - seeking advice on what may happen if The Black Lions decide to undertake the trials and join the Consortium. Check vs 85: 79 = success
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Monday July 9th, 2018 7:51:42 PM
Bralin nods once at Zeoll's answer. He has already spoken more in the last five minutes than the past five days, but the effort seems to have been worth it.
The dwarf waits wordlessly for the next step.
(Brock) Jozhur AC23 / Touch 16 Flat 16--CMD 27--HP 111/111 --Shadow Companion 43/55hp Monday July 9th, 2018 8:53:07 PM
Jozhur nods at Zeolls answer. It seems they are agreed, then. Potential members of the dragon consortium, how far they've come in such a short time.
The human looks to the dragons, waiting for what comes next.
Beriothian the Druid Monday July 9th, 2018 10:00:58 PM
Beri refills his glass and fills a plate with assorted desserts and pastries. I believe we are getting to the point where you may want to talk among yourselves. I'll be here sampling this magnificent pie if you have any more questions .
DM Kathy Monday July 9th, 2018 10:26:14 PM
The Iron Dragons are content to let the Black Lions discuss the matter among themselves, but that may not be necessary.
Zeoll, not without reservations, agrees to throw his lot in with his friends. That leaves Tahni as the only one still on the fence--but she seems unlikely to be a lone holdout. It's beginning to look as if the Black Lions will heed the call.
Rill wants to know how this will all turn out. He casts Divination to reveal, yet again, that his DM is not actually a god. I don't know how this is going to turn out. It's going to be a challenge, but I think it's one you can overcome. I certainly intend for you to overcome it! So Rill gets an answer along the lines of: Do your best; be true to one another; and all will be well.
There may be some questions that still need answering, but there is also the next step: the first test of the Black Lions. And I'm not sure how much info the Iron Dragons players have about that, which is why Gimp is here. It does have to do with the Death Dragon cult, so if you want to share info about that, go right ahead.
Bosk DeOx of Hook City (James D) Monday July 9th, 2018 10:48:42 PM
Bosk nods. It sounds like you are mostly in agreement. If Tahni agrees then Gimp will give you more information. What I can tell you at this point is something you could have potentially figured out by researching past dragon initiations. Typically the quests for potential dragons are broken into two categories. The first quest will be dealing with something close to home. The second will be a quest of more wold wide importance, though that is not to say it won't have the potential to greatly impact your home land as well.
If you need more time to discuss then we will step out and let you do so.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 90/136 Monday July 9th, 2018 11:54:10 PM
There is no way Tahni is going to stamd in the way of the crew joing the consortium.
OOC: I'll make a more detailed post when I get home. Just don'twant to hold things up
Restlin the Mendicant Monday July 9th, 2018 11:58:37 PM "Good choice, folks. We'll be rooting for you." Restlin digs into his pack and pulls out three scrolls. "We can't assist you in your quests, but feel free to check in with these sending scrolls." He leaves them on the table for whoever wants to pick them up.
"Anything else you folks want to discuss before we call it a night?"
Zane Stormfront Tuesday July 10th, 2018 12:49:25 AM
Zane looks up after the Bonetowner's agree to take the trials. "With Gimp here, and our current Dragon mission still unfinished, I expect that they will be doing something at least semi-associated with what we are doing. Should we fill them in on the Death-Dragon Cult we've been chasing all around the Wold and Jerico Space to boot?"
Katinka 'Tink' Hushfoot -- RobC Tuesday July 10th, 2018 6:33:33 AM
It's hard to tell but Tink seems pleased with the group decision.
"I suspect a visit to Fae Skiemir may also be in their future, as it once was in ours. It quite a challenge, and those that return alive are often viewed quite favorably by the Consortium."
Tink recalls the Iron Dragon visit to the land but does not elaborate any further on it.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 136/136 Tuesday July 10th, 2018 6:40:05 AM
Tahni gives a polite smiles to Restlin and slides one of the scrolls in front of her. It's a spell she is capable of casting so would have no trouble reading it.
She is hearing a whole bunch of words and terms she has never heard before. Mythal? Fae Skiemir? Death Dragons?
Tahni gives knowing nods as everyone is speaking and looks to see if any of the other crew look puzzled. She reaches for a small ale and starts to drink just in case she is asked a question and needs a polite way not to respond.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Tuesday July 10th, 2018 10:56:36 AM
Rill gets the result of the Divination and turns to Terser. "I think it's a little confusing for the Gods to have so many heroes in one room. I think this Divination belongs to you." He will relate the results to Terser.
"Sir Restlin, your offer is kind. Are these Sending scrolls Divine or Arcane?"
"As for the Dragon Consortium, we seem to be in agreement to face the challenges set before us together. But we would like some time to prepare ourselves. We have unfinished business to address in the Catacombs and some of us need a bit of time to prepare scrolls and such. How does this work exactly"?
Restlin the Mendicant Tuesday July 10th, 2018 11:01:43 AM
Restlin reaches over and places his hand on top of Tahni's as she takes the scrolls. He looks her right in the eye and very quietly whispers, "We have full faith in you, but if you find yourself in an unwinnable situation and need help...well, better to fail and live than die trying."
"Arcane," he answers as he sits back up. "Fae Skiemir was kind of anti-climatic. Remember how ready we were to fight Mhalice again, only to find she's not a bad sort and was really glad to see us? Then we just kinda waltzed out because of the repulsion spell. Really interesting place, though. Far as the Gargul thing, if he and Gimp want them to know, they'll know. Honestly, we know almost nothing ourselves at this point other than...well, you know what we know. It ain't much."
Garret Goodbarrel Tuesday July 10th, 2018 11:08:14 AM
Garret involuntarily shivers when Fae Skiemir is mentioned. He mumbles, "Nasty place. Magic all over the place, and it didn't really make sense. Crazy magical people things..."
Sesha, Emissary of Serenbeth Tuesday July 10th, 2018 11:37:18 AM
Pleased, at least that she maybe put some of Zeoll's concerns at ease, Sesha gives a quick look around for Garret. He was sneaky, that one.
"I don't want to say too much, but please pay attention to your surroundings and have a care for yourselves and others, no matter where the Consortium sends you. These tests are often difficult on purpose, and the tests do not have a one hundred percent pass rate. You can most certainly fail."
She pauses a moment, then adds.
"But if you do go to Fae Skiemer, please pay attention. There are stories there that need to be told, it is a place unlike any other."
She places her pack on the table and fishes out a potion, then drops it on the table near the sending scrolls.
"This is a heal potion. Witches can make them, and Wizards cannot. I think you might find it useful." She pointedly stares at Restlin for a second.
(Casts heal at CL 12)
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Tuesday July 10th, 2018 4:52:25 PM
Zeoll smiles and is glad to have these gifts.
He bows to Sesha especially. "Lady, you have eased my soul with yourr wise counsel. I will trry to satisfy both my duty and my hearrt. Perrhaps I will even succeed."
He thinks about how these Dragons seem to be in need of information. "Bosk, Berri, and Rrestlin, my frriends, do you rremember the magical place called The Edge? I rrecall that it is a place that has answerrs to odd questions. You Drragons may want to look therre for guidance."
[OOC to Beri, Bosk, Restlin and Hook DMs: Highlight to display spoiler: {That's just a thought from an old friend, NOT an official hint. In fact, your DMs might kill me if you decide to go off-script, hunting for answers at The Edge! LOL!} ]
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Tuesday July 10th, 2018 6:45:39 PM
Aex can't contribute much when it comes to all these strange places, so she mainly listens and tries to understand what exactly she signed up for...
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Tuesday July 10th, 2018 6:46:19 PM Thanks for the redirect Rill. It seems my ancestor's were lazy and just used the existing channel instead of talking to me. I'm not surprised. I bet the booze is even better in the afterlife.
(Brock) Jozhur AC23 / Touch 16 Flat 16--CMD 27--HP 111/111 --Shadow Companion 43/55hp Tuesday July 10th, 2018 7:21:59 PM
Jerhico Space, Mythal, Fae Skimier? Jozhur has never heard of these places, and the puzzled look on his face gives it away. He asks no questions though, he sits quietly and abosrbs all the information he can.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Tuesday July 10th, 2018 7:55:13 PM
Bralin nods to the collective Iron Dragons.
"Our thanks. Both for the gifts and the invitation."
He turns to his comrades. "Let us leave Restlin's abode, and find what Gimp has in store."
With that, the dwarf commences looking around for a door.
DM Kathy Wednesday July 11th, 2018 12:17:26 AM
It would seem that the Black Lions have agreed to accept the invitation and meet the offered challenge. It only remains to figure out what that is.
To that end, Gimp heads for the door. "I guess that's my cue," he says with a grin. "Come on outside, and let's talk a bit more."
[OOC: I think the Iron Dragons players can safely return to their board. Thank you all so much; you were great! Feel free to add any parting words of wisdom you may have.]
Gimp leads the way out of the Magnificent Mansion and to the remains of the battlefield. A light mist shields most of it from view.
"Congratulations, first of all," Gimp says. "Oh, and also? All that stuff about Fae Skiemir and Jericho Space? Yeah, don't worry about that. That all comes later. Your first test is closer to home.
"See, there's this cult," he continues. "Call themselves the Death Dragons. They claim--well, some of 'em claim--that they're just worshipping the Boss in one of his ancient forms, but there's a lot more going on than that and none of it's good.
"Now, most of this is the Iron Dragons' problem," he says. "But there's an especially dangerous bunch of 'em that have been running around in the Middle Seas. They've formed an alliance with your old pals the Bloodkin."
He looks around at you with a chuckle. "Thought that might interest you," he says. "The Bloodkin have been supplying slaves to the cult, and the cult has converted quite a few of the Bloodkin. Their alliance is dangerous, and if the Iron Dragons are going to have a chance with the main cult, this lot need to be stamped out.
"So. That's your test. Break up the Bloodkin, then break up the cult. Make sure neither group holds any sway in the Middle Seas. Questions?"
Garret Goodbarrel Wednesday July 11th, 2018 11:42:19 AM
Garret waves as the group departs. He calls out, "Yeah, if you ever go to that nasty Fae Skimier, watch out what you say and what you think, that magic doesn't like you to disagree with it!"
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Wednesday July 11th, 2018 12:47:44 PM "So. That's your test. Break up the Bloodkin, then break up the cult. Make sure neither group holds any sway in the Middle Seas. Questions?"
Aex's eyes grow wide as she listens to the first part of the trials.
"That doesn't sound so bad? We get to break up a lot of things... Euhm ... are we allowed to do this in a time frame that we see fit? Like, can we at least decently prepare before we rush in head first? I really need some potions to brew and perhaps some armor for Leafy here. One that potentially can stop an axe... "
(Brock) Jozhur AC23 / Touch 16 Flat 16--CMD 27--HP 111/111 --Shadow Companion 43/55hp Wednesday July 11th, 2018 2:38:24 PM
Jozhur bids the Iron Dragons adieu and thanks them for their help. Perhaps they would meet again on a battlefield someday.
Jozhur grins at Gimp's mention of the Bloodkin. He was going to thoroughly enjoy this. There isn't a group in the middle seas he despises more than them.
He laughs at Aex's comment, though it probably shouldn't be funny, "Just make it quick, or I may get started on my own."
Sesha, Emissary of Serenbeth Wednesday July 11th, 2018 3:40:49 PM
Sesha waves farewell, and jumps back into the air, her body reassuming the misty cloudform that comes with her Windwalk spelll.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Wednesday July 11th, 2018 3:55:23 PM
Zeoll hugs Beri, Bosk, and Restlin, and shakes hands with the other Dragons -- unless Sesha leaves too soon?
"Life is too shorrt, my old frriends. Maybe we will see each otherr again, maybe in the Ghost, orr in a Tapestrry drream. And we will let you know how ourr mission succeeds."
"Until then, thanks and farre well!"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Wednesday July 11th, 2018 3:56:00 PM
Terser is glad this isn't a hard decision. They've already begun their dismantling of the Bloodkin operation, and that work had to continue before it could regrow.
A deadline would be useful, so long as it includes time to prepare. And time to find their base of operations, unless that's something you're providing us as well.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Wednesday July 11th, 2018 6:48:47 PM
Bralin grimaces and rolls his eyes heavenward at Aex's comment. Having no adequate response he makes none.
To Gimp, he asks "Who are the Bloodkin, and where can we find them? And where can we find this cult?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Wednesday July 11th, 2018 9:32:53 PM
Rill waves goodbye to the Iron Dragons. "Thanks for the gift and the hospitality. And especially the advice!"
To Gimp he says, "Thank you for all your help and advice. We will need some time to prepare, if that's allowed. We used a lot of resources in that last battle. Also, how do we get home?"
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Wednesday July 11th, 2018 10:32:23 PM
Zeoll recalls hearing of them. "Brralin, the Bloodkin arre orrcish slaverrs. I think we crossed paths with them beforre, underr Captain Coerr. Rrememberr Rreggie? She was capturred by them and then escaped, but they had herr son. Laterr they sold herr son to the Aisildurrian noble, frrom whom we took him and those other kids back. We should head back to Quarrry Island and check on them soon."
It's not really called Quarry Island, but Zeoll can't remember the name. [OOC: Kathy, what was that name?]
DM Kathy Wednesday July 11th, 2018 11:37:04 PM
Many of you have questions. Aexana and Terser want to know if you have to start right away.
"If you need a couple-three days, by all means take 'em," Gimp replies. "Heck, take a week. Just...not much longer than that, all right? The longer you delay, the stronger they get."
Bralin wonders who the Bloodkin are, but Zeoll answers before Gimp can. The Bloodkin are slavers, and especially brutal ones at that. Some in your group have tangled with them before. Zeoll reminds you of your recent efforts against slavers, and mentions Comeri, the island with the tin mine.
Bralin and Terser both want to know where to find the Bloodkin, but Gimp just says. "Nah, that's part of the test."
Rill just wants to know how to get home. "Oh, that's easy," says Gimp. "I'll get you there."
And once again, the world around you goes white. Only this time, when your vision returns, you are standing at the Bonetown docks, not far from where the Lionfish is berthed, the brilliant noonday sun streaming down on you. "Last stop!" Gimp says. "Everybody off. Any more questions?"
Zeoll looks slantways at Gimp. "Hey, I get that the Lorrd of Life and Death has taken a hand in this because he wants this cult rrooted out, surre. So if he wants us to succeed, maybe you can tell us something about it. Like do they use undead? Liches? Vampirres? What's the name of the cult leaderr? Arre we talking clerric villains or morre? What's the name of this cult? Not the Rred Garrgulites, I wonderr? I rrememberr them frrom the Year of Ascension, when I spent time dead in the Lands of Rrest. It was all anyone talked about, how the rrest of the Wold's herroes werre turrned undead forr some rreason."
"And hey, if we do the Lorrd of Death and Life's business herre, what's in it forr us? Don't say Consorrtium Memberrship, since that's not his to grrant, god or no."
Diplomacy 36. Even in no-nonsense mode, the old taur has a silver tongue that softens his words.
Still, Zeoll's attitude, as well as his grey mane, suggests that he wasn't born yesterday.
Bosk DeOx of Hook City (James D) Thursday July 12th, 2018 1:02:02 AM
Bosk waves good bye before returning to his own adventurers
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 136/136 Thursday July 12th, 2018 9:23:40 AM
Tahni raises an eyebrow at the current events. Was Zeoll trying to sweet-talk Gimp? Well huh.
She does have a few questions though.
"Have any other groups been approached to deal with this cult? I mean, is there some sort of backup plan to deal with them? And what's their end game? They've partnered up with the BloodKin but to what end? What do they need the slaves for?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday July 12th, 2018 12:13:01 PM "Gimp - you did say you were here to answer questions. We know nothing about the Death Dragons. What can you tell us about them that will help us in our task? Who is the primary liaison of the Death Dragons to the Bloodkin? And who is the leader of this Bloodkin interaction with these Death Dragons? If you can show us a picture or conjure an image of these people, that would help a great deal."
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Thursday July 12th, 2018 5:53:28 PM I don't think it matters so much why they want the slaves. So long as we cut off the supply and free the ones they've taken, we'll be doing a great service to the region and striking a blow at the Death Dragons. It might be a good idea to check in on the colony though, and make sure the Bloodkin haven't been able to get their hooks back into it.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Thursday July 12th, 2018 5:56:09 PM
Listening to her friends firing questions at Gimp, Aex thinks it's wisest for her to shut up. Listening with one ear you see the little greenmage rummaging through her potions and grabbing a booklet on rare flowers and plants...
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) d20+11=14 ; Thursday July 12th, 2018 7:21:42 PM
Finding himself on Bonetown's docks, Bralin notes his comrades are mostly engaged in extracting intelligence from Gimp, and decides to instead look about and see who else is in the immediate area, and what they're up to.
(Brock) Jozhur AC23 / Touch 16 Flat 16--CMD 27--HP 111/111 --Shadow Companion 43/55hp d20+9=24 ; Thursday July 12th, 2018 9:55:00 PM
Jozhur looks in at Bonetown. He was hoping for some time to relax, but at least he had an excuse to hang out in the taverns.
He's not too concerned with questioning Gimp. He said finding the Dragon Cult was part of the test, and this would be well within their capabilities.
He suggests they start with Brother Engev and Brother Lansel, then use whatever they know to gather more information.
He also tries to recall anything he may have already heard about Bloodkin hangouts or anything about a dragon cult. (knowledge local: 24)
DM Kathy Thursday July 12th, 2018 10:48:27 PM
You are safely back in Bonetown, but some of you still have questions for Gimp.
Zeoll asks what the cult uses. "Human shields," Gimp replies promptly. "At least, these ones do. And yeah, you can expect clerics, but you can expect other things, too. No undead, though." Asked about the cult leader's name, Gimp replies, "The leader of the whole cult is the Iron Dragons' problem. Remember, you're only going after part of the cult."
Zeoll also asks the cult's name. "Oh, didn't I say? The Death Dragons."
Finally, Zeoll asks what's in it for you guys. "The Iron Dragons are going after the main cult," Gimp replies. "You're helping them out by taking out one of the more important....branches, I guess you'd say. If you fail, or if you choose not to try, the Iron Dragons will have a much tougher time of it. They might not succeed." He flashes a sympathetic grin. "Sometimes, what's in it for you isn't something you get; it's something you avoid."
Tahni asks whether other groups have been asked to deal with this cult. "I guess technically, you're the 'other group' that's been asked," says Gimp. "The Iron Dragons are handling the bulk of it." She asks what they need the slaves for. "Some of 'em, they convert," Gimp says. "Build their numbers that way. Others get sacrificed in dark rituals. The Boss kinda hates that."
Rill asks about liaisons between the groups. "There's a Bloodkin guy," Gimp replies. "Name of Dekkar Lifebb. Though I doubt that's the name he was born with. Anyway, he's the main guy between the Bloodkin and the cult. I don't have a picture of him; sorry."
The rest of the group does not have questions for Gimp, and he makes ready to depart. "You'll do fine," are his parting words. "Just remember the sequence. Take on the Bloodkin first; you should be able to find out enough there to lead you to the cult. Don't try to take 'em both on at once."
Meanwhile, Bralin looks around. Your sudden appearance on the dock has caused something of a sensation; people are exclaiming and pointing and staring. So far, though, nobody has approached you.
Jozhur tries to recall anything about a dragon cult and comes up empty. You try to recall Bloodkin hangouts, and don't recall anything specific, although you do remember Market Island, that mostly-uncharted place where periodic slave auctions are held. If you're looking for slavers, that might not be a bad place to start.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 136/136 Friday July 13th, 2018 10:56:38 AM
Tahni looks to Terser and Zeoll for direction.
"What's the plan from here? Stock up and be ready to head out?"
Cults, slavers and using human shields? These guys have to be stopped.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Friday July 13th, 2018 11:30:04 AM "Thank you for your advice Gimp. Kindly convey my gratitude to our Lord as well."
As Gimp leaves, Rill turns to the party - I assume we are back in Portside House.
"Well, it looks like we have about a week to prepare, and some of us can use the time to gather information that will help us. I can cast Divination and Commune - any thought on what to ask?
"I will also plan to make a run to the Catacombs. So far, we have:
+2 Keen scythe Metamagic Rod: Extend Wand of Resist Energy Bag of Tricks: Rust Scroll of Wall of Thorns Ioun Stone: Pale Lavender Ellipsoid Ring of Chameleon Power Staff of Evocation Wand of Phantom Steed (30 chg) Dwarven Thrower fire opals silver goblets decorated with moonstones coral bracelets gold an emerald necklace Mithral Full Plate +3 Defending Greatsword
"Now, I recall that Bralin is keeping that Mithral Full Plate. If Terser decides to keep that hammer, he'd owe the group about (... let's see ... borrow the six, carry the three), yikes, he'd owe the group about 34,000 gold. Does that work for you Terser?
"Anyone else want anything before we sell stuff?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Friday July 13th, 2018 4:45:52 PM I do believe I'll hang onto that hammer. I think it was meant for me. And yes, I'll be selling some old items too. And if anyone needs some extra cash, please let me know.
Things to sell for me -
Boots of the Winterlands Ring of Mind Shielding Ring of the Ram
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 136/136 Friday July 13th, 2018 8:53:41 PM
Tahni shakes her head politely. There is nothing in the haul that is of interest to her right now.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Friday July 13th, 2018 9:40:53 PM
"Orcish slavers," Bralin muses. "A worthy task." The dwarf considers a moment, and asks, with in unusual glint in his eye, "Will there be giants?"
The task turns to locating the whereabouts of these Bloodkin, and as Bralin cannot cast spells of the magnitude required to locate them, he patiently waits for his comrades to do the honors.
(Brock) Jozhur AC23 / Touch 16 Flat 16--CMD 27--HP 111/111 --Shadow Companion 43/55hp Friday July 13th, 2018 9:48:49 PM
When the discussion of treasure begins, Jozhur points to the Ring of Chameleon Power on his hand, "I'll be keeping this, it may come in handy for our current task."
Jozhur seeks out Brothers Engev and Lansel. He informs them of their task and asks for any information they may have on Bloodkin whereabouts. Maybe he can use anything they know to help gather information in town.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Saturday July 14th, 2018 12:20:01 AM
Zeoll visits the Portside House with Jozhur and finds an unfamiliar liontaur meeting with the brothers.
When the younger liontaur sees Zeoll, he springs up. "Hail and well met, Zeoll. I, Frraweol of Clan Aene, have travelled many miles to grreet you."
Zeoll bows, and greets him as a kinsman. "That too was my clan of old." They compare notes and lineages.
"You still wearr the beads of ourr people. Have you given up yourr desirre to see the wemics frre of their island, as you sang long ago?"
Zeoll denies it ferociously. "It has in fact weighed heavily on my mind lately. Why do you ask, youngerr cousin?"
Fraweol kneels. "Because I have come to pledge to serrve you and to serrve that same mission. Will you take me as yourr hand in this worrk? I will swear an oath to follow your orders and take you as my chief if you will swearr to do what you can to frree ourr people frrom theirr old constrraints and shames."
Zeoll is astonished. He looks at Jozhur and the brothers. "I will have to think about this," he says at last. "Tell me morre about yourrself and ourr people."
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Sunday July 15th, 2018 3:58:13 AM
Rill is also in Portside House.
"Forgive me for intruding, but why do you say that your people must be freed from their island? Is there someone or something keeping them there? If so, how did you two escape?"
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Sunday July 15th, 2018 7:34:55 PM
Zeoll nods. "It is a matterr of historry, geogrraphy, and honorr, my old frriend, and we seldom discuss it with outsiderrs. But I deem the time forr silence is overr. We must face ourr past and move beyond it."
The old taur tells the tale. To summarize, in an age past, Domi made the Taur races to live as brothers and sisters. Old rumors say that the taurs lived on the vast lands of the continent tot he north, of which all of Elenna is but a small peninsula. In the cataclysm, some taurs fled to what would be the Taur Isles. In that time, just before or just after the Cataclysm (no one knows for sure), the Centaurs and Minotaurs went to war with each other. What most taurs do not know is that the war was started at the secret instigation of the liontaurs, who profited from playing both sides.
But in the end, the liontaurs were punished for their betrayals. They gained the smallest, least productive island of the three Taur Isles, and they were plagued with an endless invasion of Hell Hounds, who continue to attack to this day. Many lives has that war lasted. To no good end.
"So you see, we arre trrapped by ourr sins of old. I believe that we need a new starrt. We need to vow to rreforrm ourr ways. In the past we hunted ourr brrotherrs and sisterrs. Now we must prromise to hunt only game, not people. And we can do that on in uncharrted and wild lands, as we have seen herre nearr Bonetown."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Sunday July 15th, 2018 7:57:32 PM
Aex heads home and intends to use the little time they have to preparing for the coming challenges. She'll be brewing and crafting all week... Just before she leaves she asks Rill if he'll join her somewhere during this week to brew some of his clerical spells.
In Search of the Bloodkin
DM Kathy Sunday July 15th, 2018 10:17:53 PM
Back at Portside House, Tahni asks what the plan is. Rill offers divination spells, and a trip to the Catacombs. Terser would like to keep the Dwarven Thrower.
Bralin asks whether there will be giants. It seems unlikely, but you never know.
Aexana gets right to brewing.
Jozhur thinks to ask Brother Engev and Brother Lansel about the Bloodkin. They look thoughtful. "Funny you should mention it," Brother Lansel says at last. "I haven't seen a Bloodkin ship in a while. Time was, they were in and out of port all the time. But I can't say I've seen any recently." "Good riddance, I say!" Brother Engev interjects.
But it is Zeoll who has the biggest surprise waiting for him: a young liontaur, who seems determined to serve him. Zeoll provides some backstory for his companions, and explains how and why he wants to help the wemics.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Monday July 16th, 2018 3:48:19 PM
Terser goes along with Rill to the Catacombs. He's gotta sell a few things to finance this fancy hammer!
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Monday July 16th, 2018 4:59:17 PM
Rill goes with Terser to the Catacombs. Then he returns home with a new book and sets to reading it for 6 days. Since he has a Ring of Sustenance, he needs little sleep, so he also works on a few scrolls and helps Aexana with her potion brewing, adding the requesite spells she needs. (Once I hear back from the sale, I'll let folks know how much each one got.)
"So Aex, what's are we cooking up?"
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Monday July 16th, 2018 6:00:43 PM
Zeoll and Fraweol talk long into the night, and they begin to form a plan. It is not enough to relocate the liontaurs; they must atone as well. In fact, some atoning might be a good idea for Bonetown too.
But to start with, Fraweol must go and build support for the new movement. He is reluctant to leave his new friend, but Zeoll reassures him.
"First, cast a permanent telepathic bond between us, so we can communicate at will. Cast it again when you find a worthy liontaur to join our cause," says Zeoll in the wemic tongue. Second, on days I can come to you, be ready to cast spells on me that will aid me, and then send me back."
"We can discuss our plans telepathically in the days ahead and as you recruit followers to our goal in my name."
==========
Zeoll introduces his new friend to the group. He explains that Fraweol will not be adventuring with us, nor joining the party, no more than does Tula. But he helps, and one way he can help is through permanency spells, so if anyone wants a permanent enchantment, we can arrange it.
==========
Zeoll claims the rod of Extend, and then wonders what his share of the loot shall be. He wonders if he should sell his ring. It is special, but maybe too precious.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 d4=2 ; d4=2 ; d4=1 ; d4=1 ; d4=4 ; Monday July 16th, 2018 7:31:10 PM
Aexana looks up from her brewing tools as Rill walks in...
"Ah yes my friend! Do come... You have mastered casting of certain healing spells. Together we could bottle these and use them when we are in dire need. Look... I have prepared a few lifewood flasks right here. I can prepare the potions... you should cast the spell we need... I was thinking about Heal and Breath of Life. Sure we could also try to bottle Wind Walk or Word of Recall... but let's start with Heal and Breath of Life? Ok?"
Potion 1 takes 2 hours : Heal Potion 2 takes 2 hours : Heal Potion 3 takes 1 hour : Heal Potion 4 takes 1 hour : Breath of Life Potion 5 takes 4 hours... : Breath of Life
"Ooof... that last one really made us struggle right? Let's call it a day... We can make some more if you like tomorrow but I really need some rest now and I think you do to."
Aexana usually limits herself to ±8 hours of brewing per day. Otherwise she would have just way too many potions :-)
(Brock) Jozhur AC23 / Touch 16 Flat 16--CMD 27--HP 111/111 --Shadow Companion 43/55hp d20+20=27 ; Monday July 16th, 2018 9:36:12 PM
Johzur shugs at Zeoll, "We would all be delighted to help you with this, after we finish our current task." Jozhur has a quick meal, then announces that he is going out to see what information he can gather on the bloodkin and invites the others to join him.
Diplomacy to gather info: 27
DM Kathy Monday July 16th, 2018 10:21:27 PM Rill returns from the Catacombs, but between his fascinating new book and Aexana's potion-brewing project, he pretty much isn't available for the next several days.
Terser's Catacombs errand is much more straightforward, so he (presumably) doesn't need as much time.
Zeoll and his new friend formulate a plan whereby Fraweol will begin building support and be ready to assist Zeoll at need. He also has the ability to cast a Permanent spell, if anyone is interested in having that done.
Jozhur begins gathering information around Bonetown. He learns that there haven't been many Bloodkin ships through port in recent weeks. People are beginning to remark on it, and of course there are rumors as to why.
Some say the Bloodkin have founded a port city of their own and now use it as a base of operations. Some say this new port was built on the site of a massive treasure find.
Some say the Bloodkin are avoiding Bonetown in order to avoid the Black Lions, who have made a point recently of going after slavers.
Some say that most of the Bloodkin have been killed, by the hurricane or the earthquake or the strange red grass or all three.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Tuesday July 17th, 2018 12:57:44 AM
(As Mark works to finish a new mod, keep up with DM posts, finalize Catacombs posts and purchases, write scrolls, etc. he could really use some suggestions on questions for Divination and Commune Spells)
Rill pauses to ask, "So, what sorts of things should we ask Gargul about where we're headed?"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 136/136 Tuesday July 17th, 2018 6:44:57 AM
Tahni returns from the catacombs with a small haul over her shoulder. "I'll be back" she says as she tries to find a quiet room to sit in.
The next few hours provides some different noises from behind her closed door. There is the sound of some hammering, Tahni humming quietly to herself, a few polite swears ("Bother it!") and then some silence. For a moment you think you can ever hear her talking to someone.
Should there be a knock on the door, her response - for the moment - is "Nothing. Be there soon!"
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d100=58 ; d100=27 ; d100=42 Tuesday July 17th, 2018 12:28:35 PM
Rill keeps an eye on Tahni's door for smoke or flashes of light. Aex's potions where much simpler to deal with.
He remembers we were advised to take oon the Bloodkin slavers first, and then seek out the Bloodkin cult. He will start with a couple of Divination spells, asking:
Where is the primary land base of the Bloodkin slaving operation?
Where is the primary land base of the Bloodkin part of the Death Dragon cult?
(Both had an 85% chance of success and both passed!)
Oh, one more: Will it be better to take the Lionfish and her crew to these places, or to Teleport there? (Also passed!)
Rill would prefer to sail, but not if it puts the crew in serious jeopardy.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Tuesday July 17th, 2018 3:35:57 PM Gotcha, Tahni! Let us know if you need any help in there!
He'll leave a tray with some covered biscuits and jam outside her door.
Terser observes Rill's divination process, trying to learn better questions to ask when he seeks guidance himself. Hey Rill, want to help me write out the next question? I can only do this once a day or so, so I want to make sure I'm getting the most out of it!
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) d20+2=9 ; d20+28=34 ; d20+2=3 ; d20+13=19 ; Tuesday July 17th, 2018 4:27:12 PM
Zeoll takes stock of his current creations and works. Some he gives to Fraweol. Other stuff he equips himself. Some stuff is still on his shopping list. He definitely stocks up on the finest quality honey (bee joice) he can find!
[OOC: Still waiting for the final loot dispersement. I'll assume I'll retcon gear later ...]
Zeoll is glad to hear that the residents of Bonetown are hearing about our mission to end slavery. He asks for a friend or two to come with him to spend some time in the bars and taverns of the town -- making clear the news: Slavers can expect no mercy. If we find them, they are dead. Give up the trade or regret it.
Anyone want to volunteer to come on and issue threats?
As for the sad rumors the party has found already, well, Zeoll thinks maybe he can do better.
While he is out there, Zeoll sees if he can find anybody willing to rat out any slavers - Elfbloods or otherwise. Maybe there are some former slaves out there looking for revenge? competitors seeking to put a crimp in a rival gang? anyone with a grudge? Gather Info to find such folk: 34.
Zeoll pays 100 gold to anyone who'll talk, but they have to let him cast Discern Lies on them to earn the 100 gold. Sense Motive to get a feel for potential rats: 19. There is a save on the Discern Lies (Will DC21) but Zeoll does not pay anyone who saves.
Other castings: -- Guiding Star to get a fix on Bonetown. -- Sending spell for a short check on the woman we left in charge on Comeri. -- Three times, walking around Bonetown, Zeoll casts Locate Objects with the intent of finding an Elfblood's Flag. Each casting gives Zeoll a range of 880 feet for 24 minutes. He'll search the docks, the slave market area, and anyplace his rats may have suggested. If he finds one, he summons archons and his Pooka pal to go get the rest of the party.
That night he seeks answers in dreams ... the best way to attack the Elfbloods ...
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Tuesday July 17th, 2018 6:34:03 PM
Well, my bad. I meand Bloodkin, not Elfbloods. Maybe that was Cayzle's mistake, and Zeoll has it the right way round. Or maybe Zeoll is getting senile too, and hopefully some friend will correct the elder taur before he finds the wrong flag and gets the party to attack the wrong pirates!
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) d20+13=32 ; Tuesday July 17th, 2018 7:17:01 PM
Bralin considers Rill's requests and questions.
"Where are the Bloodkin leaders? Mayhap they are not at their base."
The Stone Warden also decides to try his hand at the rumor mill. Seeking out the company of other dwarves, Bralin buys the drinks, plays the games, tells the stories, and generally makes nice ... in the dwarven style.
Through it all, he slides in thoughts on slavers in general and the Bloodkin in particular. - They're days are numbered, and anyone with information on where they might be or what they might be up to would be better off letting that slip.
[Diplomacy 32 (using dwarfkin bonus)]
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Tuesday July 17th, 2018 7:42:21 PM
Aex keeps to her herbalism all day... (sorry... too tired to think.. .last 4 nights I slepts 3 hours a night... - will post better soon)
(Brock) Jozhur AC23 / Touch 16 Flat 16--CMD 27--HP 111/111 --Shadow Companion 43/55hp d20+18=26 ; Tuesday July 17th, 2018 9:40:06 PM
Jozhur passes on the little information he gathered to the others. When Zeoll asks for volunteers to go back to the taverns, Jozhur jumps on board.
He is quick to correct Zeoll on who they were looking for, though he wouldn't mind crackin' some Elfblood skulls, too.
He aids Zeoll in sniffing out any potential Bloodkin symphasisers they come in contact with. (sense motive: 26).
DM Kathy Tuesday July 17th, 2018 10:33:18 PM Tahni returns from the Catacombs and immediately busies herself on some project or other. Aexana, too, is working busily.
Rill casts some Divination spells. Where is the primary land base of the Bloodkin slaving operation?There isn't one Where is the primary land base of the Bloodkin part of the Death Dragon cult?There isn't one Will it be better to take the Lionfish and her crew to these places, or to Teleport there?Unclear
Terser asks for help in formulating his question for divination, as he's only got one to ask.
Bralin suggests asking where the Bloodkin leaders are, reasoning that they might not be at their base.
Bralin, Jozhur, and Zeoll hit the taverns and try to gather information. There's an initial mixup about who exactly you're looking for, but it's quickly cleared up. Everyone you speak to remarks on how the Bloodkin haven't been seen in port much of lately. They repeat the rumors as to why: a new base (which you know from Rill isn't true), they're all dead (which probably isn't true either or Gargul wouldn't have sent you after them), and they're trying to avoid you guys.
But you persist. You ask where they might be found if they're not in port. Finally, late in the evening, you hear another rumor: about a mostly-uncharted island where slavers meet to buy and sell. Nobody knows where it is, though, except the slavers, and they're not sharing. If there are Bloodkin to be found, perhaps they're there.
Zeoll casts Guiding Star, then casts a Sending to contact Mistress Hych on Comeri. You send your message, and receive the scattered response of someone not used to measuring their replies to 25 words or less. "Oh! Oh, it's you! Oh, I'm so glad to hear from you. We've been here for a while, you know, and we were kind of--"
You also use Locate Objects to try to find a Bloodkin flag. Unfortunately, the only one you find is a rather tattered specimen in a curio shop, priced at 2 gold pieces.
That night Zeoll tries to read his dreams. You see a long line of ants crawling along the ground, each carrying a tiny seed or other piece of food.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 136/136 Wednesday July 18th, 2018 7:40:41 AM
With her crafting complete Tahni takes a moment to admire her new outfit. A nice green vestment with an ivy inlay, and a thin silver circlet around her brow. Quite nice.
For her next task, Tahni fills her cauldron with a little water and uses it to check in with her friends in the Scab. It's something she does semi-regularly. One is based in Riddleport whilst the other is in Drakesmeade. Those are two of the larger settlements in the Scab and if Bruagh had returned there, someone would have news. Much like every other time though there is no update. He is still missing. Tahni thanks her friends for their time and alone once more has a moment to privately remember the past.
She then finds a clean position on the floor to sit cross-legged to silently pray and speak with Maab. She needs strength. Tahni softly exhales and speaks privately with the one she follows Tahni's prayer... Highlight to display spoiler: {"Mother Maab. Please hear your humble servant. There is much unrest in the Wold and I seek your aid. I have fear for what may come. I lack the strength to protect those I have come to care for and cannot lose another. Help me keep them from Gargul's grasp. Show me the ways to support them and to keep their spirits safe. Give me the tools to save them from evil"}
With a deep inhale and exhale. Tahni stands from her seated position, confident that Maab will hear her prayer. She feels better already if only for the act of asking.
She then spends a little time to write some more in her journal. It's not something she has had a chance to do since just before their journey to the Sargrass so there is much to catch up on. The party have actually done quite a lot and it takes some time to note it all down. Tahni tries her hand at a few simple sketches to remember things by.
With all her personal things now done, Tahni returns to the party to see what she can do to help with the search
----------------------- DM: Highlight to display spoiler: {The prayer was my way to put some spin on Tahni's levelling: her new spells and Greater Immortal Summons. No action needed on your part (unless you want to of course).}
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) d100=65 ; Wednesday July 18th, 2018 4:24:52 PM
Terser tromps back in from the Catacombs having given a large amount of gold to Rill to distribute to even up after acquiring his hammer.
With input from the rumor mill and building off of Rill's questions, Terse makes his own divination. He recounts a tale from long ago of getting the whole tribe together to seek a child that was lost in the mines, and applies their success to tracking down this new island.
Divination - What is the heading and distance to the new slaver's market island? Caster check vs 85: 65 = pass
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Wednesday July 18th, 2018 6:30:55 PM
Bralin settles down in the common room following a long day of talking.
"Tis most likely Market Island," he tells Terser, referring to the uncharted auction house they'd found some time ago. Nevertheless, he waits for the reply to Terser's question.
(Brock) Jozhur AC23 / Touch 16 Flat 16--CMD 27--HP 111/111 --Shadow Companion 43/55hp Wednesday July 18th, 2018 9:35:54 PM
Jozhur certainly isn't taking any bets against Bralin. He heads for the Catacombs while the others work their magic.
DM Kathy Wednesday July 18th, 2018 10:59:33 PM
Her project complete, Tahni sits down to offer prayers to her goddess. As you pray, you get the very strong image of a box that has been placed in your hands. The box is made of different kinds of wood, blended harmoniously together, and you think you detect a bit of Woldsblood running through it. The box seems so real--the weight of it, the feel of wood against your fingertips--that you half expect to see it when you open your eyes. But your hands are empty.
Terser, meanwhile, uses his Divination ability to find the heading and distance to the slavers' market island. You receive the information, and it is as Bralin supposed. It is the same Market Island you visited in your recent adventures.
Jozhur, meanwhile, heads for the Catacombs.
While you are at Portside House, you get a message from Tula, reminding you that the Lionfish no longer has a crew; they all left when you were gone for so long. She asks whether you'd like her to hire a new crew, or what your plans are.
"Huh," says Zeoll. "I had no idea that it was that bad. Well, don't worry, my frriends, I will rrecrruit us a new crrew."
Zeoll heads to the Lionfish and has a long sit-down with Tula. He apologizes for leaving her in the lurch. He does not want that to happen again. He promises to take better care of the ship if she will promise her loyalty to him and to the Lionfishers. [OOC: I'd like Tula to be my one level 6 follower, and I'd like to use the second perm telepathic bond I have paid for to link Fraweol and Tula.] Diplomacy 50!
While he is on board, Zeoll checks the Hallow spell that protects the Lionfish that Rill cast and Zeoll contributed to. Has it expired yet?
If she agrees, Zeoll and Tula head into Bonetown to recruit a crew. Gather Info to find a crew: 43. Sense Motive [and Discern Lies and Zone of Truth and Detect Evil] to make sure they are of good heart and have no other loyalties: 22. Diplomacy to convince the best sailor candidates to join: 37. [OOC: I'd like to gain the crew as followers, a second level one as second mate and the rest as first level crew.]
[OOC: Still waiting on final resolution for loot division.]
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Thursday July 19th, 2018 6:28:55 PM
Terser gets directions handed down from above and confirms that this is in fact the same market island, rather than a new one. Surprising, since they busted up the operation there once already.
While Zeoll has his methods for sussing out the crew's suitability, Terser has his own. He sits down for a drink with any that don't quite sit right at first, and has a nice little chat. At the end of the day, he'll relay his thoughts to Zeoll and the others, hoping to refine their choices.
He also makes sure to look out for any of the tried and true crew members. They already know the ship, and they were honest enough not to mutiny and steal it while they were away. He couldn't blame them for seeking employment when they didn't seem likely to come back.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday July 19th, 2018 6:53:07 PM
Rill works on scrolls and continues to help Aex with her potions. He will take a bit of time to touch bases with the Church of Gargul in town to see if there are any rumors about the bloodkin, or if they know anything about a Death Dragon Cult.
[OOC: Rill still cannot provide final resolution for loot division.]
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Thursday July 19th, 2018 7:22:45 PM
Aex has locked herself in her room and has been hammering, sawing and chipping away lifewood items...
"YES!! LEAFY... Try this on... "
...
"Oh c'mon don't look so silly... walk around... yes yes... now stretch your arms... look! See... it ain't that bad right... it fits nicely..."
After a while the door opens and Leafy steps out with a rather sheepish look on his face... he now wears a wooden looking Breastplate.
(With the Craft Lifewood Feature gained Aexana has made Leafy a +1 IronWood Breastplate)
She looks around and hears her friends are into town gathering information. Excellent! She does need some more time to brew so while they are gathering info, she can at least try to get some potions to get them all home safe and sound.
(time to head for the CC:)
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Thursday July 19th, 2018 8:42:14 PM
The destination is set, and Zeoll and Terser are collecting a crew for the ship.
With Rill off at the Catacombs, Bralin decides to take advantage of the lull for some training.
Engaging the aid of several minotaurs, he provides each with a reach weapon, and spends the rest of the day working out how to engage each without first getting attacked. At the end of a very long day, he retires, and ponders the results.
That night, an idea forms. The dwarf will try it out on the morrow.
DM Kathy Thursday July 19th, 2018 11:47:21 PM
Hearing that the Lionfish is without a crew, Zeoll sets to work. He is able to establish a telepathic bond between Fraweol and Tula; then he sets about finding a crew.
Terser also does some work toward finding a new crew.
Rill goes to speak with the Church of Gargul. They have no information about the Bloodkin. They have heard rumors of the Death Dragon cult, and are pretty open about the fact that the rumors are very worrying. However, they don't have anything specific enough to be useful.
Aexana emerges and has Leafy model his new breastplate.
Bralin concentrates on training.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 136/136 Friday July 20th, 2018 5:39:55 AM
Tahni is quite pleased that Maab appeared to have heard her prayer. It gives her hope that the party will overcome whatever challenge awaits them.
The party still haven't found anything specific to follow as far as she knows.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Friday July 20th, 2018 6:11:39 PM
After a hard night of drinking with potential sailors, Terser takes a slow day for meditation, hoping to find some new inspiration like Bralin did. When he wakes up, he finds he has a new source of mental strength, and hopes it will serve him well in resisting scary ghosts and dragons in the future.
thanks for the reminder! I had forgotten about taking a feat.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 27--HP 111/111 --Shadow Companion 55/55hp Friday July 20th, 2018 8:17:48 PM
Jozhur returns from the Catacombs just in time to see Leafy trying on a wooden breastplate. He can't help but chuckle to himself a little, but the little guy deserved some protection. He lets the others know that his new armor allows him to fly.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Friday July 20th, 2018 8:20:37 PM
Zeoll admire's Leafy's new armor and thanks Terser for his help with the crew.
He looks over the items he has crafted of late, over the past months and days. [OOC: Kindly DM Kathy, I'm assembling Zeoll's crafting wish list, with his costs to make and spellcraft DC required.]
Zeoll thinks about Drini. He wants to give her things. But will she keep them?
Hmmmmm ...
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Friday July 20th, 2018 9:00:50 PM
Rill is still stuck in the Catacombs...
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 136/136 Friday July 20th, 2018 11:59:46 PM
Tahni isn't quite sure what to do with herself right now, so goes for a quiet stroll around the docks. She's not looking for anything in particular. Simply to see what is going on and whether everything is ok. She'll try and do a few small good deeds where possible (mend cuts, provide some food or water, help with very very very light lifting)
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Saturday July 21st, 2018 1:07:08 AM
Oh, Zeoll asks that his share of the gold include those two coral bracelets. He has in mind to enchant them and wear them on his forepaws, like foreleg bracers.
[OOC: A slotless Brooch of Shielding and a slotless Circlet of Persuasion!]
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Sunday July 22nd, 2018 4:47:28 PM
Now that Leafy has some extra protection Aexana can take some time to visit the Catacombs. If she gets enough from the sales from some items and the extra gold (do we have a grand total yet?) she might even further enhance Leafy's breastplate and get some extra thingies for herself. After all, it seems they'll be heading into trouble soon...
(travelling next week but I should be able to post whole week)
DM Kathy Sunday July 22nd, 2018 10:16:08 PM
[OOC: I see I've forgotten again. Everybody take 6,000 XP for the first scene.]
Terser follows Bralin's example and does some training of his own.
Tahni is pleased with the results of her prayer, and believes the group hasn't found anything to go on. Hopefully somebody fills her in about Market Island. She takes a stroll around the docks, looking for good deeds to do. Most jobs that need doing involve a certain amount of lifting, but she is able to put in a pleasant hour or so helping to paint a figurehead.
Rill is still stuck in the Catacombs, but Jozhur returns with armor that lets him fly! Aexana heads down to do some shopping of her own.
Zeoll wraps up his crafting, and finishes acquiring a crew for the Lionfish.
Tula gets the new crew squared away, and provisions the Lionfish. She is ready to sail whenever you are.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 27--HP 111/111 --Shadow Companion 55/55hp Sunday July 22nd, 2018 11:06:15 PM
Jozhur joins the warriors in training and sparring, hoping to learn something that will save his hide. He reflects on how far his fighting skills have come, he has certainly picked up a thing or two during his time with the Black Lions.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 136/136 Monday July 23rd, 2018 7:38:04 AM
Tahni is also ready to set sail. She's starting to learn some of the proper sailing terms too. Set Sail. Cast Off. Get the sails up the pole.
Well, most of the terms.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Monday July 23rd, 2018 4:36:28 PM
When Aex hears Zeoll has gathered a new crew andere most of her friends are ready to set sail toon she scatters of to the Catacombs... She'll hurry!!
"Wait for me!!" she shouts over her shoulder...
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Monday July 23rd, 2018 5:52:33 PM
Terser sets to helping the new crew stow supplies, watching them to get an idea for their work ethic and organizational skills. He also keeps an eye on who seems to be a leader type, in case someone needs to fill in for Tula at some point.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Monday July 23rd, 2018 6:36:13 PM
Zeoll suddenly has no time in the day. Maybe he will simplify his plans after all ...
[OOC: Real Life just ate me. I may go for a simplified route.]
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) d20+2=10 ; d20+2=18 ; d20+2=8 ; d20+22=23 ; d20+22=23 ; d20+20=27 ; Monday July 23rd, 2018 6:58:14 PM
Yes, on reflection, Zeoll decides to keep his Steelgrass Ring of Regeneration and to spend almost all his crafting efforts on upgrading his headband from +2 Wis&Chr to +6. That's 60,000 gp of his wealth.
He also creates a +1 belt of con, a +1 headband of chr, and buys 269 gp worth of honey, all for the next time he calls Drini.
That leaves him with a cool 5 grand pocket money. And no need to visit the Catacombs.
[Crafting checks 23, 23, and 27 are A-OK]
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Monday July 23rd, 2018 7:35:31 PM
Bralin spends another day training. He grins with pleasure as his idea works. The dwarf is quicker than he looks...not all that difficult for a dwarf in platemail, mithril or no. Taking advantage of this supposed weakness, he takes a quick step, and is on the minotaurs before they can bring their reach to bear.
He works, approaching again and again, until the taurs tire.
Confident in his new feat, Bralin heads for the Lionfish, ready for the next challenge.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Monday July 23rd, 2018 9:55:04 PM
Rill steps onto the Lionfish.
"Cap'n Zeoll, Rillett Savenport reporting for duty. Usual quarters and duties?"
DM Kathy Monday July 23rd, 2018 10:28:55 PM
You wrap up your errands and begin drifting toward the Lionfish. Jozhur reflects on his improved warrior skills, while Tahni contemplates her growing familiarity with nautical terms. Well, some of them.
Terser assesses the new crew and finds them capable, if unremarkable.
Zeoll wraps up his crafting and shows up in a snazzy new headband. Well, it's the old headband, but it's significantly snazzier now. He also has some trinkets for the pooka, in case he ever has need of her again.
Bralin finishes his workout, and Rill returns from the Catacombs.
Aexana chooses that moment to decide that she needs to run to the Catacombs, but she soon returns [OOC: we'll get started, but anything you buy will be available to you.]
With everyone finally aboard, Tula and the crew make ready to depart.
"Unless you're in a hurry, I'd like to wait for the tide," Tula says. "That'll be a couple of hours. So everybody has a chance to get squared away."
[OOC: You may also want to discuss strategy. You're headed for Market Island to look for Bloodkin, but how will you approach it? A frontal assault? Stand off and hope to pick one off? Something else?]
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d100=22 ; d100=82 ; Tuesday July 24th, 2018 1:29:48 AM
Rill says to his friends, "Oh, I almost forgot! I need to distribute some cash and things!
Zeoll - $16,269 + Metamagic Rod of Extend
Jozhur - $14,569 + Ring of Chameleon Power
Rillett - $23,869 + Bag of Tricks: Rust
Aexana - $27,269
Terser - -$33,043 + Dwarven Thrower
Tahni - $27,269
Bralin - $16,619 + Mithral Full Plate
"There we are!
"Now, let's see what we can find out about Market Island."
Rill casts two Divination Spells. They are: What is the best way for us to approach Market Island? (Success! 85% chance, got 22!) What is the strongest foe we will encounter there? (Success! 85% chance, got 82!)
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Tuesday July 24th, 2018 2:02:45 AM
Once back from thema CC, Aex listens to whatever strategies that came up.
"We might want to scout the place before we go in... I can turn us all info seagulls (op another very common not hunted animal) so we can go around that place rather unseen... Perch on a tree, roof, cart, anything and use eyes and ears... Just an idea..."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 136/136 Tuesday July 24th, 2018 7:19:53 AM
Tahni takes up the gold from Rill and the offer of time from Tula. In all her haste to get some things put together she completely neglected a few scrolls to scribe into her spellbook. Maab had granted her the ability to cast stronger spells, but that's no use unless she has some spells of that power in her spellbook!
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) d20+2=15 ; d20+13=15 ; Tuesday July 24th, 2018 8:24:13 AM
Zeoll recasts his Extended Guiding Star spell just before the Lionfish set out.
The old taur puts on his (figurative) captain's hat and sorts out any details the able Tula may have missed. He has personal contact with each and every crewmember. He explains about the sacred enchantment that grants each sailor an extra 17 hit points. He makes sure each of the eight sailors has his suit of masterwork studded leather armor and his elixer of swimming. "You may choose to wearr the arrmor orr no," he explains, "but keep the elixerr on you at all times, just in case."
[OOC: These crew gear options are tracked on Zeoll's PC sheet and count against his WBL.]
Zeoll keeps in touch with his new fan, Fraweol, via telepathic bond. He practices relaying mental conversation through Fraweol to Tula.
If it is OK with the kindly DM, each night Fraweol Teleports Without Error to the Lionfish, casts Water Breathe, Extended Darkvision, Extended Protection from Arrows, and Extended Nondetection on Zeoll. Then he teleports back, having spent less than half a minute on the Lionfish.
Zeoll thanks Rill for his accounting and divinations!
At moments on the voyage, Zeoll ponders strategy. He tells his friends that he really likes Aexana's idea anchoring far offshore and flying in as seagulls. But can we change back fast? Can we communicate with each other?
Oh! Zeoll can call his pookah friend Drini, and she can help with telepathy to communicate within the group.
If Aex can cast in seagull form, can she create a mist or fog that the party can use as cover to change back? Maybe it would be good to quick-change back and let Zeoll's peaceball or his new confusion spell sow havoc in the ranks to soften them up, and then attack at range as the spell causes the enemy to attack each other. Then move to melee to mop up. The confusion is nice, but not if prisoners are in the line of fire.
Thoughts?
=====
At odd moments, Zeoll fingers the old Bloodkin flag he found in Bonetown. He is starting to think that these slavers pose as big a threat as did Billoopl. He nurtures a growing sense of righteous indignation. "We'll put them to justice, of one sort or another" he mutters in his native tongue. Dragon Consortium or no, THIS is what the Lionfishers were for.
At night, Zeoll ponders and then seeks in dreams for hints as to what kinds of foes the party may find at Market Island. Knowing the capabilities of their enemies may help.
Zeoll consults with Aex as to the duration of her polymorph. He gives the command to halt the ship out of sight of Market Island. He helps navigate with his Guiding Star and Sailor skill. Check: 15.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Tuesday July 24th, 2018 11:39:09 AM I don't have any fun trick of my own that would help with scouting. But if we can turn into seabirds, could we possibly also turn into something smarter that can communicate? Like maybe a blink dog?
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 27--HP 111/111 --Shadow Companion 55/55hp Tuesday July 24th, 2018 4:03:14 PM
Jozhur doesn't seem to sure about being polymorphed, he rather likes being a human. But he's willing to go along with it, "I suppose a bird's eye view of the place would be nice. Maybe I can pull something sneaky off with the information."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Tuesday July 24th, 2018 4:11:12 PM
Aex nods at Zeoll when he asks if she can cast in animal form: "Yes... fog cloud could do. Or I can even alter the weather to make it foggy... that would be less noticable and 'strange' so to speak."
"I'd say we need something that people won't look at... not sure if Blink Dogs match those demands... besides, I can only turn us into actual animals.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Tuesday July 24th, 2018 7:19:32 PM
Bralin nods to Tula, receptive to her request to await the tide. He listens to Zeoll and the rest brainstorm approaches, and while leery of being turned into a seagull, does privately admit the approach has definite advantages over the overland route they chose on their last trip to this island.
"There is the jungle on the leeward side," he recalls. "Mayhap a jungle bird form would allow us to anchor the Lionfish away from the slavers' route, and aid our approach."
DM Kathy Tuesday July 24th, 2018 10:23:08 PM
After his return from the Catacombs, Rill has cash and prizes to distribute to the rest of the team. He also finds time to cast a couple of divinations.
What is the best way for us to approach Market Island?Cautiously, no frontal assault. What is the strongest foe we will encounter there?Beware the Condor.
Tahni realizes she needs to scribe spells. It will take a few days to reach Market Island, so she will have time.
Zeoll has some items to help the crew, and has made arrangements with his cohort to cast daily spells. [OOC: This is all right by me, but it may limit Fraweol's ability to do other things for you. Also, it's only going to work when you're actually on the Lionfish.]
Much of your conversation is about strategy. Aexana offers to turn you all into seabirds. Terser would prefer something smarter. Zeoll wonders about conjuring up some fog as well. Bralin reminds everyone that there's a jungle approach--that's how you all reached the main marketplace last time.
That night, Zeoll dreams about what foes you will find. You dream of ships flying Bloodkin flags, firing ballistae. You dream of cutthroat crew, mostly half-orcs, armed with daggers and whips.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Wednesday July 25th, 2018 10:35:32 AM
Rill shares what he learned.
"The jungle approach may be best. I have a Swan Boat in my pocket. If needed, we can use that to keep the Lionfish out of harm's way."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Wednesday July 25th, 2018 2:47:21 PM
@ DM Kathy - as I am travelling now I can't get to the catacombs yet... I hope you don't mind I go there next week. Up to you to decide if what I bring along is already available or not.
"The jungle approach doesn't sound that bad either. Although I do believe we ought to scout the place and learn as much as possible before we go in...
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) d20+7=15 ; Wednesday July 25th, 2018 4:35:39 PM Whatever we decide to turn into, we should probably do a practice run, and work out how we can communicate.
Terser starts to draw some scouting plans, based on their last visit, alternate approaches to the island, and getting a good cross section of scouting areas. He also thinks back on what type of natural predators there might be that would prey on their animal forms.
knowledge nature 15, or survival 17 if that's more appropriate
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 20/13/17 -- CMD 19 -- HP 136/136 Wednesday July 25th, 2018 6:45:46 PM
Tahni appears carrying 5 blue vests, that seem to move and shift a little in the sunlight. You notice she is wearing one herself.
"Alright. Who wants one? I made it myself. It'll allow you to breathe underwater. Perhaps no one will see us coming that way?"
-------------------- These have been created with a Tishe's Weave Elements spell and take up the chest slot.
Cast Twice and Extended Tahni can provide coverage for 24hrs. With a +35 in Craft Clothing, Tahni can make hers with at least 2 elements each time
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Wednesday July 25th, 2018 7:23:48 PM
Bralin's eyebrows rise up in surprise at Tahni's announcement.
"Impressive," he states, holding out a hand for one of the vests. "Is the effect permanent, or must you recast daily?"
The dwarf feels out the material and tries one on. He feels safer already.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Wednesday July 25th, 2018 8:51:30 PM
Jozhur thanks Tahni for the vest, "Wow, that's really neat."
He wonders about Rill's divination. "Beware the Condor? A bird? Maybe turning into seagulls isn't the best idea." Jozhur seems agreeable to just slipping in through the jungle again, but the place is probably better defended now.
DM Kathy Wednesday July 25th, 2018 10:09:37 PM
As the Lionfish sails toward Market Island, you continue discussing strategy. Rill and Aexana favor the jungle approach; Rill has a Swan Boat that might help the group to land on the rocky shore.
Tahni emerges with vests that allow the wearer to breathe water, which suddenly opens up a possible underwater approach.
Jozhur points out that "beware the Condor" would seem to argue against disguising the group as birds.
Terser suggests that whatever method you choose, you do a dry run first to practice.
There are a lot of ideas, but as yet, no consensus. By the end of that day, with Zeoll's help, Tula stops the Lionfish close to Market Island, but not within sight. They can't see you; you can't see them.
How do you want to proceed?
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Thursday July 26th, 2018 1:05:53 AM
Zeoll thinks that approaching under water is not the best bet because they have to emerge to cross the beach and walk onto the island. The opportunity for recon is limited.
But as seagulls we can fly over and look around. Even fly close to the market, like within 200 feet. That would be close enough to get a good look, but far enough to be out of detect magic range. Then we fly back into the jungle, hide among the trees, discuss our options, and then we'll see.
"I'm not worrried that the Condorr is an actual birrd," he declares.
If we want to change back to our true forms and sneak up on the camp, do we have enough invisibilities to cover everybody? Or some other way to creep up? The divination warns against a head-on fight. Maybe we can sneak up, use Confusion and Illusion and Summoned Creatures and Sneak Attacks to get them fighting each other, and then mop up? Can anybody cast Greater Invisibility on Jozhur?
Zeoll will definitely cast his Lesser Planar Ally spell to call Drini. If she shows up, he gives her things he has for her -- +1 belt of Con, +1 headband of Charisma, silver ring for Shield Other. He also gives her a Horn of Fog and the best honey to be found in Bonetown.
He explains the plan -- after it is settled, whatever it turns out to be.
When the plan is set, he casts Taurs Try and Mage Armor on himself, Drini, and WHO ELSE? Speak up please?
Just before he is turned into a seagull, he sounds his horn of good and evil.
[OOC: gold reduced by 500 to cast Lesser Planar Ally]
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d100=63 ; Thursday July 26th, 2018 3:45:01 AM
Rill casts another divination when the Lionfish anchors. "Who or what is the condor we were warned about?" (63 - success!)
Rill will roll with whatever plan is set. (Travelling out of the country with limited internet.)
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Thursday July 26th, 2018 7:46:34 AM "I have a few spells that might be useful.
Seeming could disguise us all. Control Weather could give us some cover. The vests allow us to approach underwater. They last for 12hrs at a time. Hmm... maybe I should only cast these once a day? 8am to 8pm perhaps? Polymorph (and greater) would allow us to transform us into different things. Prying Eyes would allow me to scout the area ahead quite quickly.
While I'm at it, I have a couple of Greater Magic Weapon spells prepared. Is anyone in need?"
Tahni isn't prepared to take the lead on this. She's simply going to offer some spells and see what happens. ------------------------------- OOC: The GMW spell would give a +3 bonus to a weapon for 15hrs
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Thursday July 26th, 2018 12:25:16 PM Why thank you! This will certainly feel nicer than my armor padding. And it will come in handy when there's no Rill around to cast water walk.
Terser removes his armor and puts the shirt on underneath. He shimmies a little to settle it before re-girding himself.
I like the idea of scouting ahead. We could get an idea of who's around, then approach under a seeming spell as another group of slavers there for the market. We could throw a few of those confusion spells around and get people fighting each other, then be in place to take advantage of it.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Thursday July 26th, 2018 1:02:09 PM "Always happy with some extra armor Zeoll." Aex says as Zeoll offers his Mage Armor again.
Aex too would prefer to fly in as seagulls and look at the place from a distance. This way the group can cover a very large area. Even splitting up would not sound that bad she thinks.
(sorry for the short posts friends... travelling)
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Thursday July 26th, 2018 7:38:26 PM
The consensus appears to favor the avian approach, and Bralin assumes they would start from the jungle side of the island.
He nods his head once in acceptance of the decision, puts on the vest anyway, and waits for the order to leave.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Thursday July 26th, 2018 8:51:54 PM
Jozhur smacks himself on the head when Zeoll mentions the greater invisibility. "Scrolls! Why didn't I think of that. Could someone use scrolls of greater invisibility if I buy them? Perhaps I could just get a wand."
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Thursday July 26th, 2018 10:04:20 PM
Zeoll is happy to read scrolls, and Drini can try too!
She is better with wands and low level scrolls though.
[OOC: THat reminds me, oh kindly DM Kathy! I see that one of Drini's feats is Improved Initiative. Can I swap that out and put in Skill Focus UMD?]
DM Kathy Thursday July 26th, 2018 10:36:55 PM Zeoll casts his Lesser Planar Ally, and soon he feels a familiar pressure on his shoulder and "hears" Past past roary! New grass? She accepts the items, though she has trouble getting the belt to stay on, not really having a waist. She does manage eventually, though. The first time the thing is empty (which doesn't take long), she gladly accepts some honey. [OOC: I'm pretty sure we already had the feat-swap conversation, and I'm pretty sure the answer was yes.]
Rill casts another Divination. "Who or what is the condor we were warned about?" The Condor is a ship [OOC: Also, you are a party pooper. :P]
Tahni goes over the spells she can cast, and Jozhur realizes that people in the party can probably cast scrolls on him.
The majority of the discussion, however, is tactical, and you seem to be reaching a consensus that turning into birds is the way to go.
Knowledge Nature 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Fog in the middle of an otherwise sunny day is almost unheard of, and would probably arouse suspicion.}
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Friday July 27th, 2018 3:26:11 AM "Fog would probably not be a great idea unless we change the whole weather system. Probably best not to have them looking around to see what is going on and to instead act natural.
If act natural means going in as seagulls, I'm game"
---------------------- Knowl Nature vs DC15: Autopass
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Friday July 27th, 2018 3:50:19 PM
Aex nods at Tahni : "I can alter the weather in a large area so that should look pretty normal... It takes about 10 minutes to cast and another 10 for the weather to actually change. So the changes are rather ... gentle so to speak.
We could cast such a control weather spell at very early dawn... fog should be fairly common at dawn."
In any case Aex will prepare some a Control Weather and Animal shape spell for the whole party.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Friday July 27th, 2018 6:08:38 PM
Jozhur cracks his knuckles, "Sounds like a solid plan, start the weather up just before dawn. Let's go beat down some bloodkin." He sets to trying out his new armor, practicing climbing, jumping, tumbling, and getting lots of odd looks from the new crew.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Friday July 27th, 2018 6:23:36 PM
Rill tells the others, "The Condor we are to be wary of is a ship. Fog is a good plan. When we go ashore, let's have the Lionfish be prepared to run. I'll leave magic items with Tula to ensure their safety."
Rill leaves Feather Tokens: a Fan for speed, a Swan Boat for backup, and a Bird to send us a message.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Friday July 27th, 2018 7:53:39 PM
Bralin has an axe, so he's ready.
The dwarf patiently awaits the morn.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Friday July 27th, 2018 8:34:53 PM Once we're in seagull form, how long will it last?
Other than that concern, Terser is ready to scout, though he'll suggest staying in groups of two at least, so everyone has some backup. He naturally gravitates towards partnering with Tahni.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Saturday July 28th, 2018 2:41:13 AM "We'll have plenty of time... you can fly around like a seagull for about 13 hours... The weather will be changed anything from 8 to 96 hours in a 3 miles radius... Now ideally I can cast the control weather spell when we are in the town for the changed weather will be centered on me.
Does Aexana have an idea what time of year we are? Fog is most common in autumn...
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Saturday July 28th, 2018 7:10:00 PM
Zeoll likes the plan is shaping up. When it is time, he sounds his horn and casts Mage Armor on himself, Aex, and Drini. And Taurs Try on himself.
He'll have his buffs up from Fraweol: darkvision, protection from arrows, nondetection, and water breathing.
Then seagull shapes and flying to the shore. Fly near the market, scout, and then fly back into the forest.
There we change back, cast message to keep in touch, and use Seeming to sneak closer. using illusion to look like seagulls or something harmless.
Summon some creatures.
Then Confusion, Summons, Stinking Cloud, Drini's illusion, sneak attack arrows, etc etc so that we can attack from afar.
Then move in to mop up with melee.
How's that?
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Sunday July 29th, 2018 4:21:39 PM
Sounds good to me... Aex says
DM Kathy Sunday July 29th, 2018 9:24:53 PM Tahni points out that a sudden fog in the middle of the day would be unnatural, and probably arouse suspicion. Aexana offers to do a more convincing weather pattern in the morning, when it would be more believable.
[You're not quite in autumn yet, but it is late summer, and early fogs are not unheard of.]
The rest of the group is inclined to wait until morning to do the scouting. Indeed, Zeoll seems to view the actual scouting as a mere formality, and proceeds to develop a battle plan.
The next morning, Aexana conjures a very believable fog, and turns the party into seagulls. [Drini, who can fly and be invisible in her natural form, declines to be changed into a bird. Is Leafy a bird, too, or does he stay on the ship?]
You leave the Lionfish as a flock of seagulls; whether you're humming '80s synth pop is up to you.
Visibility is poor. The same fog that makes it difficult for people on the ground to see you, also makes it difficult for you to see what's on the ground. You can see that there are four ships docked at Market Island, but you can't tell whether any of them are flying a Bloodkin flag.
Flying inland, you can see a few people milling about in the dirt "courtyard," but they don't seem to be doing anything in particular. Perhaps it's too early in the day, or perhaps they're waiting for something specific.
As far as you can tell, the jungle approach from the far side of the island is still clear. Well, unguarded; it's still jungle and most of you know it's difficult to get through. But it does look as if you could come in that way.
What else would you like to look at?
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP116/116 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 22 and LEAFY (L) - HP55/55 - AC23/21/20 - CMD 20 Monday July 30th, 2018 3:50:11 PM
Can someone post for me? I have another 900km tot drive before I'm home... Sorry
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) d20+9=27 ; d20+17=22 ; Monday July 30th, 2018 6:10:32 PM
Terser does his best to blend in with the other seabirds, mimicking their movements and landing spots, and only making a show of going for their food. He tends more towards the docks, landing on the top of the various ships to get a closer look at their emblems and see who may be here. He's also going for an idea of how much crew is on the slave ships and how they're outfitted.
knowledge nature to blend: 27 perception 22
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Monday July 30th, 2018 6:19:39 PM
Seagull Rill looks for an area in the courtyard that might have the kind of food/trash a seagull might want. He lands on a building roof near the courtyard to get a better look at the folks there. He also listens to what's being said.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) d20+11=21 ; Monday July 30th, 2018 7:15:04 PM
Seagull Bralin gets some air under his wings and rises into the sky.
Keeping the island in sight, he heads out to sea a ways and cruises in a lazy circle, looking for the sign of incoming wakes or masts.
Zeoll is happy to lead the flock over to the docks to get a look at the ships. But not toooo close, please! Out of detect range. He tries to ID the ships. Know Local 27
And a peek and a peck around the buildings is fine too. Any differences from last time? Any familiar faces?
Zeoll keeps alert and strains to catch bits of conversaiton. Perception 33
Then the leader of the flock pushes the group to the safety of the deep jungle out of sight and sound range.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+27=39 ; d20+23=33 ; Monday July 30th, 2018 8:42:20 PM
Jozhur isn't so sure about the seagull disguise. He circles above, watching the others, doing his best seagull impression (Bluff: 39). He keeps a close eye on the others and will squak at any signs of danger. While he is up there, he makes a mental note of the layout and any terrain which may make a stealthy approach easier.
Perception: 33
DM Kathy Monday July 30th, 2018 9:35:39 PM
You fly around and scout various things.
Terser concentrates on the ships at the dock. You land on each of them, and can see that none are flying a Bloodkin flag. Each ship seems to have a dozen or so crew; each has at least one ballista mounted on the deck.
Rill scans the packed dirt for seagull food, but there's nothing there to speak of. You land on a building and listen to the conversations below. A few people are talking about the unusual fog, although none of them seem especially suspicious about it. Two men who seem to know each other pretty well are exchanging good-natured insults over some barmaid or other.
Bralin watches for approaching ships, and does see one.
Zeoll tries to ID the ships. You think you've seen a couple of these in port at Bonetown, but you have no more information on that. You look for familiar faces, and you do see Rab, the fellow you charmed, walking about and talking to people. You can overhear a few conversations; mostly about the fog. Somebody asks Rab how much longer till the auction, and Rab replies that he still hopes for a couple more ships.
Jozhur is the seagulliest seagull that ever seagulled! As far as the terrain goes, it's pretty much as you remember it; you can approach from the far side, navigate via the stream, and wind up behind the larger of the two buildings. It does involve a fair amount of thrashing through the undergrowth, as you remember, but it is otherwise pretty stealthy.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Tuesday July 31st, 2018 10:21:20 AM
Tahni just glides in the wind. She's not quite sure how a seagull would normally act so just goes with "flying bird".
She sticks with Terser and tries to blend in with the other gulls.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) d100=22 ; Tuesday July 31st, 2018 4:23:38 PM
When they reconvene, Terser mentions the large weapons on the ships and suggests sabotaging them, to hamper any pursuit.
He also casts his divination 22 - success: When will the next Bloodkin ship arrive at market island?
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Tuesday July 31st, 2018 6:26:03 PM
Bralin lands.
"There are no ships coming," he states. "And no Bloodkin here. We must extract their location from the crews of these ships."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Tuesday July 31st, 2018 7:25:13 PM
Aexana is happy the group has little problems flying around as seagulls. She also flies lazy circles overhead and now and then veers closer to her friends, the ships and the various houses below. She's intrigued by the mentioning of the auction... what about it? An auction of what??? ... of who???
Leafy of course didn't stay behind and he has chapechanged as well. However, Aexana doesn't want him too near to the people just yet. His flight is rather... woody...
------------------------------------------------ ACTIVE SPELLS: Mage armor (cast by Zeoll) Leafy : Bull's Strength Treant : Bull's Strength / Stoneskin Lighting Lord - 4 bolts remaining Sunbeam - 0 beams remaining Ball Lightning - 7/17 rounds remaining ------------------------------------------------ TREANT HEALTH : 65/113 HP DR10/slashing (plant) Stoneskin : 100/110 remaining ------------------------------------------------ POTION INVENTORY: see char sheet ------------------------------------------------ SPELL LIST ( * = cast / A = AIR domain CL+4 DC+2 / ALL ELSE CL-2 / E = EVOCATION DC+1): ------------------------------------------------ 4 x Lvl 0: Flare (E), Light (E), Detect Magic, Know Direction 6 x Lvl 1: Create Water, Detect animals or plants, Produce Flame (E), Entangle, Faerie Fire (E), Cure Light Wounds + Obscuring Mist 6 x Lvl 2: Soften Earth and Stone, Flaming Sphere (E), Warp Wood, Wood Shape, Gust of Wind (E+A), Animal Trance + Fog Cloud 6 x Lvl 3: Call Lightning (E+A), Water Breathing, Wind Wall (E+A), Daylight (E), Sleet Storm, Quench + Call Lightning (E+A) 5 x Lvl 4: Ball Lightning (E+A), Flame Strike (E), Control Water, Cure Serious Wounds, Ice Storm + Sleet Storm 5 x Lvl 5: Transmute rock to mud, Move Earth, Control Winds (A), Call Lightning Storm (E+A), Wall of Fire (E) + Ice Storm (E) 4 x Lvl 6: Wall of Stone, Bull's Strenght Mass, Greater Dispel Magic + Control Winds (A) 3 x Lvl 7: Sunbeam (E), Heal, Wind Walk (A) + *Control Weather 1 x Lvl 8: *Animal Shapes + Whirlwind (E+A) ------------------------------------------------ 1/day: Dancing Lights, Ghost Sound, Prestidigitation, Speak With Animals. 10/day: Storm Burst 1d6+6 1/day: Lightning Lord (13 bolts) 13/rounds: Wooden Fist +7 damage 13/rounds: Bramble Armor 1d6+7 ----------------------------------------------
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Tuesday July 31st, 2018 8:22:46 PM
Deep under jungle cover, Zeoll whispers to his friends, "None of ourr tarrgets have arrrived. We can wait until they do, orr take overr this island now and ambush them when they arrrive."
"Prrobably we should wait, because if we attack the ones who arre herre now, we may give some clue and scarre off our prrey."
"So we just settle in herre forr a few hours, and let the stealthy ones in the parrty, like Jozhurr, scout forr info?"
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+23=33 ; Tuesday July 31st, 2018 9:02:02 PM
From up high over the island, Jozhur makes a mental note of the ships in the harbor and looks for anything else that may be of note. Back on the ground, he nods to Zeoll, always willing to perform the scouting.
Perception: 33
DM Kathy Wednesday August 1st, 2018 12:03:24 AM Terser casts Divination to ask When will the next Bloodkin ship arrive at market island?. His answer: In about two hours.
Bralin reports, inaccurately, that there are no ships on the way. In the DM post, I said you do see a ship, so I'm not sure if you misread it or if this was a clever ploy. :)
Zeoll wants to talk strategy. Is it better to intercept the arriving Bloodkin ship (now that you know there is one), or try to take the island and ambush them when they arrive?
Aexana is interested in the auctions, but probably somebody has filled her in; there are slave auctions that take place here; that's why it's called Market Island.
So, you have a pretty good idea of the island's layout, and you have a Bloodkin ship inbound. What would you like to do?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Wednesday August 1st, 2018 1:39:11 AM "Well if someone wants to play prisoner, I could seeming the rest of us and they can be the slave we're here to sell. A risky move though"
"We could also quickly move out, overpower the incoming ship, and sail it in ourselves"
"Or wait it out. Wait it out is also an option"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Wednesday August 1st, 2018 11:53:23 AM Oh I do like the sound of that. I still think we should break all their ballistae, in case something goes wrong, but masquerading as the bloodkin could be the perfect way in.
Come to think of it, are the slaves already on the island? If they're coming with the bloodkin, then we could ambush the bloodkin ship before it gets here, and sneak in and sink all the other slave ships before we leave. Then they'll be stuck on the island with only themselves as company.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 8d12=41 ; Wednesday August 1st, 2018 1:53:48 PM "It's not that I am a fan of being a prisoner to be sold as a slave, but if I can keep my mouth and a hand free I should be able to change into a small animal and escape fairly easily... I think... ", Aexana says... "In any case I think we need some more info before we do anything. I can keep the fog up for a bit longer but it would become strange if I keep it up too long. The weather is still under my control (Control Weather 41 hours in a 3 mile radius) so I can have the fog clear and bring out a light breeze... or a rainy day... what would make people merry and less alert?!? Assuming some of us will want to go watch the auction either as buyer or seller??"
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Wednesday August 1st, 2018 3:35:31 PM "Well, Aex, unless you can create a rain of ale, I'm not sure what sort of weather would make them merry and less alert."
"As far as a plan of attack, I like the idea of taking over the incoming ship and sailing it in."
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Wednesday August 1st, 2018 6:53:22 PM
Zeoll is on board with the plan to board and take the incoming slaver ship. Just be careful not to hurt any slaves.
He mentions that his goal is to leave this place with all slavers utterly defeated. He does not see any reason to masquerade. "We arre past that in ourr carreerrs, I think."
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Wednesday August 1st, 2018 7:22:46 PM ooc - right. Saw a phantom 'not' there somewhere. Actually, Bralin says, "There IS and incoming ship."
Bralin nods his agreement with the plan to intercept the inbound vessel.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Wednesday August 1st, 2018 9:32:15 PM
Jozhur nods in agreement with the plan. "Let's make it quick, we don't have much time. Do we have a way to get there quickly?"
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Wednesday August 1st, 2018 10:49:59 PM
"Dimension Doorr and Teleporrt?" suggests Zeoll.
DM Kathy Wednesday August 1st, 2018 11:27:46 PM
You discuss the situation, and come to the conclusion that intercepting the incoming Bloodkin ship is probably your best strategy.
You could return to the Lionfish and use it to intercept the Bloodkin ship, but Zeoll seems to be suggesting that you just go over there--either flying as birds or using teleportation magic.
Which method do you choose?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Thursday August 2nd, 2018 8:09:49 AM "I can teleport myself plus four other people. Or two and Zeoll. Does anyone else have any way to teleport?"
Tahni is prepared to cast the spell if directed by the others.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Thursday August 2nd, 2018 10:59:37 AM
Zeoll mentions he can reduce himself if he does not dim door over there himself. Reduced, he will not take up an extra teleport space.
How far is the ship from shore now? We have to see it to teleport there. Or have seen it. Keep in mind, we only know about it because our divination tells us it is two hours out.
We have to either lurk on shore and then blip in when we see it, or else take a swan boat or the Lionfish or some other mode of transport out to the ship and then either board manually or by dim door/teleport onto the deck.
The fog we have raised will help us sneak up on it. Kindly DM Kathy, what is the visibility distance with this weather we have conjured?
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday August 2nd, 2018 12:02:49 PM "I can teleport six of us, so there's that. But Teleport has a chance of error, it's an unknown ship to us. If half of us teleport there and the other have are a ways away, well, you get the idea. I think it might be better to go as birds just to make sure. Taking the ship shouldn't be a problem for us - afterall, we are pirates."
"I also have a boat in my pocket as a backup."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Thursday August 2nd, 2018 12:46:15 PM
(Am I correct the group changed back to their own bodies or are you all still seagulls?? Then how do we communicate? Aex can only cast Animal Shape once so no more seagulls for today... )
"I can get 5 of us with an Wind Walk spell over there... but that's it... I myself can shape change and swim over there. Would your spell be more precise Rill if one or more of us get close to the ship first? "
Leafy stands guard, sniffs the air (scent) and checks if no one is approaching their position.
@DM Kathy - finally managed to enter a shopping list at the Catacombs...
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Thursday August 2nd, 2018 5:49:27 PM Sounds like some of us scout with flying spells and the like, then we get the 'Fish within range of a dimension door for the rest of us.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Thursday August 2nd, 2018 7:16:45 PM
Jozhur sighs. All this magic stuff is complicated. He has a general idea of his friends' capabilities, but doesn't know the ins and outs of their spells. Whatever they decide, he is ready and awaits the plan.
It would be nice to take this ship out before it arrives, but it sure would be simpler to attack the market after it (and any other potential arrivals) make it to port.
DM Kathy Thursday August 2nd, 2018 11:50:58 PM
You begin working out the logistics of how to get to the incoming Bloodkin ship.
Although people keep forgetting, Bralin has actually seen the ship with his eyes. You do not have to rely on your Divination spells to know it's there. Bralin can take you to the edge of the fog bank and show it to you.
The fog bank, per the Control Weather spell, has a 2-mile radius, centered somewhere between the Lionfish and Market Island.
The incoming Bloodkin ship is about 10 miles from the island. It will be there in less than 2 hours.
Visibility within the fog bank is about 50 feet. From the edge of the fog bank, you can see farther; there's no fog beyond the area of the spell. That's how Bralin saw the ship, and anybody else can go to the edge of the fog bank and see it, too.
I feel like I'm not doing a very good job of describing this, so if you have more questions, please ask.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Friday August 3rd, 2018 9:33:14 AM
Tahni stands ready to act. Whatever the group as a whole decides to do, she'll be ready.
She does a few neck and arm stretches in anticipation of a fight coming soon.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Friday August 3rd, 2018 3:42:18 PM
Zeoll lays out his idea for a plan.
We wait in the fog bank on the route most likely to be taken by the slaver ship. We keep watch (from under the water? From an invisible water walker?) and adjust so we stay interposed between Market Island and the slaver, just in the fog bank.
As the slaver enters the fog bank, Drini creates the illusion of even more, deeper, thicker fog. We all know it is an illusion and can see through it. The enemy will need to make saves. If they save, the fog thins for them/ For others, they can only see say five feet in front of them.
Drini keeps concentrating on the illusion.
We Dimension Door / Fly / Teleport / Waterwalk & Climb aboard the slaver.
Summoned creatures board and attack too.
Jozhur can sneak attack / shoot all the ones who are fooled by the illusion. Every shot a sneak attack, so long as they cannot see him.
Soon enough all the enemy are down and we take the boat. We just have to be careful of area attacks because there will surely be slaves aboard.
Thoughts? Problems? Other ideas?
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Friday August 3rd, 2018 5:38:47 PM
Rill pushes his helm back on his head a bit and scratches his brow.
"I'm good with Zeoll's plan. But while we are pirates, I'm a bit reluctant to start shooting people unless we know they are doing very, very bad things. Are we sure this is a slaving ship? Do they fly a Bloodkin flag? If the answer to either is 'yes', I'm fine attacking unprovoked."
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Friday August 3rd, 2018 5:40:32 PM
Terser is concerned that by the time they reach the fog, they'll be close enough to the island to solicit help from the other ships.
Instead, perhaps Drini uses her illusion to disguise the 'Fish as another Bloodkin ship until we are close, then pop over and wreak our havoc. It shouldn't be too difficult to take out one ship. Then we can sail their ship back into port with us disguised.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Friday August 3rd, 2018 6:26:59 PM
@DM Kathy, the Control Weather spell cast by a druid increases its range to 3 mile radius and double the duration. So in this case, the fog has a 3 mile radius.
"I think it would be interesting to hide close to the edge of the fog. I can change into a bird and fly overhead either visible or even invisible with my ring... I brewed a few speak with animal potions so if someone drinks this we can easily speak with each other. I just don't have a way to send messages from a distance. "
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Friday August 3rd, 2018 7:05:44 PM
Zeoll is good with the "Disguise the Lionfish" plan or the "Hide in the Fog" plan. How far from shore and docks is the edge of the fog? Would sound of battle carry that far?
What does Drini think of these plans?
(MikeK)Bralin (AC32 / T15 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 165/165) Saturday August 4th, 2018 8:55:11 AM
Bralin shakes his head and shrugs in response to Rill. He has no idea what flag the inbound ship is flying, and so the need to identify the ship's intent remains.
He favors sailing to the edge of the fog bank, allowing someone to get another, closer, look at the ship, and then engaging with the illusionary fog and boarding.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Saturday August 4th, 2018 9:02:47 AM
Tahni puts her thumb and finger to her chin in contemplation.
"I'm not entirely sure the fog-illusion plan would work as well as intended. It would only take one person in the ship to see through it for the illusion to be revealed. Once they see through they can wave their hand through it or throw a torch through it or do something for others to see it for the illusion it is. That would be proof and the illusion dropped. Wouldn't it?
Regardless of that, the illusion would be cast at a point in space, and with the ship sailing it would be through it rather quickly. The size of the illusion won't be great either I'm afraid."
Tahni feels bad for picking at the plan.
"I agree with Bralin and Rill that we need to know the intentions of the ship before we attack or take aggressive actions. Aex's scouting may be our best bet to find out what we're dealing with"
Zeoll mentions that he has a Bloodkin flag he bought in Bionetown. "It could use a couple Mending spells, but look! It will suffice!"
He asks Drini if her illusions can do that.
If not, then waiting for the enemy ship to enter the fog, then using illusionary fog to impede enemy vision further seems like a plan. How far from shore will we be when the enemy enters the fog, do we guess?
Navigation check 14
Zeoll mentions that the real fog will dampen any sounds before they reach shore, maybe. A mile or so, even over open water, is not a long ways.
Does anybody have a silence spell? Zeoll has not prepped one.
DM Kathy Saturday August 4th, 2018 1:43:22 PM
[A couple of notes: You do know from Divinations that the incoming ship is a Bloodkin ship, and you know who the Bloodkin are: slavers, and particularly brutal ones at that. Drini says it is "twilight" to disguise the Lionfish. If you wait until the inbound ship reaches the fog bank, you will be about 2 1/2 miles from Market Island. If you wait until it is well inside the fog bank, it'll be a little over 2 miles.]
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Saturday August 4th, 2018 8:55:32 PM "I think we're starting to run out of time. Should we move with the fog bank now to reach the ship further out? The fog would be between us and the island to give us more time to do whatever we need to do, and the distance would also help dull any noise"
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 d20+15=25 ; d20+29=49 ; Sunday August 5th, 2018 4:27:04 AM "I agree with Tahni... we need decisions made quicker. Someone slap a spell on me so you can hear me while I'm scouting the ship ahead. And while you're at it, drink this potion so you can understand me when I'm in bird shape. Just a thought... with a warp wood spell I can ruin their rudder and have them sailing in circles..."
Aex hands over a Speak with Animals potion she made. Then shape changes into a seagull again and takes it to the sky. She will fly ahead and out of the fog over the Bloodskin ship. She flies as much as a Seagull would do (know nature 25). Occasionally she swoops down towards the water... then back up... if other birds around she acts the same. Assuming some would even perch high up on the ship's masts or even on the railing also?
She mainly hopes to see what goes on on the ship. How many are there on deck? Armament? Ballistae? Prisoners? Weaknesses?? (Perception 49 - NAT 20)
DM Kathy Sunday August 5th, 2018 8:50:48 PM
Two plans seem to be emerging: one, you approach the Bloodkin ship in a disguised Lionfish until you get close enough to launch an attack, or two, you wait under cover in the fog bank and attack when the Bloodkin ship arrives.
Aexana turns back into a gull to do some more recon. The Bloodkin ship is by now about 6 miles away from the island, or a little more than 3 miles way from the leading edge of the fog bank. Because the ship is moving toward you, it will take you about 15 minutes to reach it from the leading edge of the fog, or about 30 minutes to reach it from the island or the Lionfish. The real difficulty is that you don't fly much faster than the incoming ship moves, so by the time you return with your recon report, the ship will be right behind you. Do you still want to go?
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Sunday August 5th, 2018 9:09:28 PM
Zeoll nods and puts on his Captain's hat, hoping no one will object. He explains his plan at length and in detail, but quickly.
Summary of his words:
Okay, here is the plan. We all journey to the shore closest to the path of the incoming slaver ship, but not in sight if the docks and other people. I cast message on all of us, especially Aexana. She gives me her potion. Aexana changes shape and goes to spy, as she said. The rest of us use a swan boat to sail out to the edge of the fog, but not out of the fog.
Aex spies, and then flies back, with the slaver ship just behind her. She caws softly as she flies. When she is in range of the Message spell, I will hear her, then I drink the potion. Drini creates an illusion of even thicker fog where the slaver is going to enter. All of us see that it is an illusion.
I get Aexana's report. As soon as the slaver ship comes in sight (but they won't see us, we hope, with the illusionary fog), then I dimension door to it with three others. At that point Aex, the three I bring over, and myself start our attack. I suggest Terser, Bralin, and Jozhur. With the illusionary fog, Jozhur can hope to get some good sneak attack shots in before they realize it is an illusion. The rest of you either blip, fly, airwalk, water walk, or board from the swan ship. Or stay on the swan ship and attack at range.
That's the plan. Any suggestions, objections, refinements?
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Monday August 6th, 2018 7:50:17 AM
Aex nods at Zeoll. She's glad he's putting on his captain's hat! We need our captain to make such decisions.
"Aye aye Cpt'n!" Aex says smiling and once the needed spells are cast she's on her way. (rolls made last turn)
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Monday August 6th, 2018 8:04:08 AM "Aye aye, captain. Sounds like a good plan, and we do hail from a pirate town, after all. "
" I'll cast prayer just before you blip to the other ship. Bralin and Terser, you'll need to keep the heat off of Zeoll."
"Tahni, you're with me unless you have other plans. I'll Dimension Door us onto the ship when Zeoll goes. You're primarily a spellcaster, so I'll be your shield. I generally cast spells too, but I have better armor and can take a couple hits. Aex, do you want me to take your giant celery stalk with me?"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Monday August 6th, 2018 8:33:17 AM
Tahni nods. "I'm liking this plan. If Aex signals that we are going into a fight I'll cast Haste on everyone before we blip"
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Monday August 6th, 2018 11:57:17 AM
ROFL... yes please take Leafy along :-)
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Monday August 6th, 2018 12:58:09 PM
Zeoll refreshes his magic circle with a soft toot of his horn. [If he deems it would give the party away, he will not do that.] He confirms that he and Drini and Aexana all have Mage Armors.
On the Swan Ship headed to sea he casts Elf Vision on himself and Water Walk on anyone who wants it (Zeoll and Drini definitely).
WHO WANTS A WATER WALK SPELL??
Finally, Zeoll reads a scroll of Shield Other to protect Drini if she gets hurt. He makes sure she understands the foggy illusion he wants her to create, and that she has to stay within 10 ft of him to stay in the magic circle.
Current Magic Status: Currently on Zeoll: Water Breathe, Extended Darkvision, Extended Protection from Arrows, Extended Nondetection, Mage Armor, Taur's Try (+1 perception), Magic Circle, Elf Vision, Water Walk.
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command x4 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat, restoration, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally Sorc Spells: 1: 3 of 8 used (mage armor x3) 2: 0 of 8 used 3: 0 of 7 used 4: 0 of 4 used Other resources: Cape: 0 of 1 used Horns: 2 of 4 used
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Monday August 6th, 2018 1:28:23 PM
Argh - should post later...
"Yes please Waterwalk Leafy"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Monday August 6th, 2018 4:19:31 PM Don't worry about the old 'taur. There's few that can ignore a dwarf when he's trying to get their attention.
Terser prepares a couple of things to activate just before the "blip."
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Monday August 6th, 2018 5:12:10 PM
Jozhur nods at the plan, "Aye, sounds good!" He prepares a potion of invisibility to kick things off.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Monday August 6th, 2018 7:22:05 PM
"Aye," Bralin adds, managing in one syllable to agree with three people simultaneously.
When the time for dimension dooring is at hand, the dwarf will cast Shield of Faith on himself, and prepare for battle.
DM Kathy Monday August 6th, 2018 9:36:27 PM Zeoll suggests a plan, which the rest of you agree to. So Aexana turns into a gull and departs on her scouting mission.
Aexana Highlight to display spoiler: { you see that there are a few shore birds flying around--not many, but enough that you don't stand out. You approach the Barracuda--you see its name smashed in gaudy red paint on the bow--and can confirm that it is flying a Bloodkin flag. You see several half-orc crew on deck. You also see, in the distance, three more ships, in a group, also headed toward the island. They seem to be following the Barracuda, but whether they are chasing her, or just part of some kind of convoy, is unclear.}
While Aexana is gone, Zeoll sounds his horn, and casts several spells.
After about 45 minutes, Aexana returns, making little seabird cries as planned. The rest of you are waiting in the fog in a swan boat. Drini casts her spell, making the fog look thicker. The approaching ship slows a bit because of the poor visibility, so you do have a little time.
If you're going to go through with the plan, then Tahni casts Haste while Rill casts Prayer and Bralin casts Shield of Faith. Jozhur grabs his potion of invisibility. Zeoll casts Dimension Door while others Water Walk, and you may place yourselves on the map.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Tuesday August 7th, 2018 12:18:36 AM
Wait! Didn't Aexana give Zeoll some special greenmage potion to drink when she returned so he could understand her?
From my Sunday 9 pm post: "Aex spies, and then flies back, with the slaver ship just behind her. She caws softly as she flies. When she is in range of the Message spell, I will hear her, then I drink the potion."
So what does Aexana say?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Tuesday August 7th, 2018 9:09:56 AM
Tahni nervously looks about the group. There's always an energy before a fight. It's the tension.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) d4+1=3 ; Tuesday August 7th, 2018 3:47:15 PM
Terser downs his anything potion, replicating a mirror image spell, just prior to Zeoll teleporting them. (assuming he does)
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Tuesday August 7th, 2018 4:43:58 PM
Aex relates what she learned to Zeoll, who drank her Speak with animals potion.
Zeoll spoiler : "Highlight to display spoiler: {Can't some divine answers tell us if those three ships are friend or foe?!? If they are foes I will try to stall them by playing with the wind and weather... }
Then she listens to his orders and does as instructed...
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Tuesday August 7th, 2018 5:20:27 PM
(The play by post format does not accommodate these kinds of situations very well. So we'll need to adapt.)
Assuming Zeoll shares this new information, Rill does not cast Prayer or Dimension Door - yet.
"Zeoll, I'll not go if we're not all in, but life is full of uncertainty. I say we stick to the plan and take this ship. And then we adapt to the incoming ships.
"Perhaps we should ask Aex to scout the new ships to see if they are Bloodkin or worse. That would be good to know going into this."
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Tuesday August 7th, 2018 7:33:59 PM
Bralin can understand only a bit of what is going on.
"We are committed. Attack."
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Tuesday August 7th, 2018 8:46:57 PM
Also not quite sure what is going on, Jozhur shrugs at Bralin, "We're not committed quite yet, but we need to keep surprise on our side."
DM Kathy Wednesday August 8th, 2018 12:03:34 AM
The incoming Aexana relays her information to Zeoll: there are three more ships coming behind the Barracuda. Aex was not able to tell whether they are chasing the Bloodkin ship, or part of the same group.
The fact that more ships are coming, however, gives everyone pause. Is this really the best idea? The best strategy? How are those other ships to be dealt with--if they need to be dealt with at all?
Bralin and Rill are in favor of going with the original plan. Jozhur is less certain, but points out that you're going to lose the element of surprise if you delay much longer. Terser seems ready to go. Tahni, Zeoll, and Aexana are less sure.
The Barracuda will be on you in another minute or so. They might miss the swan boat in the fog, but they might not. What would you like to do?
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC29/31vEvil; 77hp) Wednesday August 8th, 2018 12:24:23 AM
Zeoll asks Aexana to scout the other ships and report back before the potion expires. Then he becomes invisible (move action) and activates the Dim Door (standard action) to place himself, Bralin, Terser, and Jozhur on the bloodkin ship.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Wednesday August 8th, 2018 7:07:41 AM
Right, looks like things are in motion.
In the moments before all the teleporting and dim-dooring takes place Tahni casts Haste on everyone - and Leafy - and says a prayer to Maab. She has a feeling that things are about to get messy.
Tahni follows Zeoll's lead and also becomes invisible.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 d20+29=48 ; Wednesday August 8th, 2018 9:29:48 AM
Aexgull nods at Zeoll. "Take Leafy along! I'll hurry back when I know more. If they are hostile I will try to buy you as much time as possible..."
The shape-changed gnome makes one last pass over her friends and then flies out to sea again. She'll probably pass the Barracuda again. If she sees odd things and she's still within range of Zeoll's message spell she'll inform the old Taur about it.
If not... she flies higher and towards the other 3 ships hoping to see what flag they sail as fast as possible... (Perception 48) During her flight she'll activate her Ring of Invisibility. After all, a seagull that is flying a straight line towards some ships might attract some attention no?!? ...
Leafy was just about to raise a finger... twig... when Aex asked Zeoll to take him along... a little low rumble and his branch lowers again... That chest-plate still feels a but uncomfy but who knows it might help Leafy to ... staying alive... ah ah ah aaah staying alive... staying aliiiiive...
DM Kathy Wednesday August 8th, 2018 10:06:21 AM
[If you are moving to the Barracuda, please place yourself on the map.]
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) d20+25=36 ; Wednesday August 8th, 2018 6:05:57 PM Will specify targets once I know where I am on the map
Terser grabs onto Zeoll's hand so he doesn't need to worry about his shifting mirror images and pops on board the Barracuda. Luckily, he's used to being towed around like this by now, and the disorientation fades in only a moment.
Wasting no time, he calls upon the spirits to bolster him and increases in size! He bellows in rage (rage on), directing his full scariness upon the nearest foe.
Intimidating Glare: Demoralize as a move action. Intimidate Roll: 36
Demoralize: You can use this skill to cause an opponent to become shaken for a number of rounds. The DC of this check is equal to 10 + the target's Hit Dice + the target's Wisdom modifier. If you are successful, the target is shaken for 1 round. This duration increases by 1 round for every 5 by which you beat the DC. You can only threaten an opponent in this way if they are within 30 feet and can clearly see and hear you.
Enlarge: 1/10 rounds Rage: 1/34 rounds
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) d20+21=25 ; 3d10+18=40 ; d6=1 ; Wednesday August 8th, 2018 6:15:42 PM
Bralin feels the pull of the Dimension Door spell, and finds himself on the foe's ship, right in front of a crewmember.
The dwarf pulls his axe while scanning the unfortunate for any weaponry. If the person is unarmed, Bralin looks around the ship for someone who is.
If the person is armed, he attacks.
IF fellow in front of Bralin is armed, attack - Pwr Atk, Imp Vital Strk
Hits ac 25 for 41 hp damage (1 cold)
--- Spells in Effect: Prayer Shield of Faith
Spell List Highlight to display spoiler: { 0 – Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Purify Food and Drink, Stabilize 1 – Rose’s Temperature Control, Divine Favor, Shield of Faith (x2), Identify (d) 2 – Align Weapon, Eagle’s Splendor, Lesser Restoration, Soften Earth and Stone (d) 3- Prayer, Stone Shape (d) Remove Blindness/Deafness }
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+34=50 ; d20+24=42 ; Wednesday August 8th, 2018 9:29:57 PM
Jozhur gulps down his potion to turn invisible before Zeoll casts his Dimension Door. Once aboard the Barracuda, he takes a moment to look around for someone who appears to be in charge or any frail looking spell caster types. If there are none, he will simply try to flank with Bralin or Terser while putting himself in the least vulnerable position.
-------------------------------------- Drink potion of invisibility before Dim Door
Stealth: 50 (70 with invisibility). Can move at full speed while sneaking with no penalty Perception: 42
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Wednesday August 8th, 2018 10:39:58 PM
I have placed Zeoll, Bralin, Terser, and Jozhur on the map. NOTE that within 10 ft of Zeoll you get a +2 resistance bonus to saves vs evil and a +2 deflection bonus on AC vs evil. Does not stack with rings and cloaks.]
Zeoll is invisible. 50% miss chance.
Adjusted AC up by 1 for haste.
Rillet will blip over with Tahni and Leafy, IIRC.
Zeoll looks at the people on board, and especially tries to figure out if any are captives.
DM Kathy d20+4=20 ; d20+4=23 ; d20+4=16 ; d20+4=20 ; d20+4=19 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+4=8 ; d20+4=12 ; d20+21=29 ; d20+16=21 ; d20+11=20 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+19=29 ; d20+19=22 ; d20+19=29 ; d20+19=26 ; d20+19=35 ; d4+6=7 ; d4+6=7 ; d4+6=7 ; d4+6=7 ; d20+17=30 ; d20+17=20 ; d8+2=8 ; d20+17=21 ; Thursday August 9th, 2018 12:26:02 AM Tahni hastes the group just before Zeoll activates his Dimension Door. Then she becomes invisible.
Aexana begins flying towards the other ships.
Terser embiggens himself. [I moved you on the map because there wasn't room for that were you were.] He roars and glares at the nearest foe, and the Bloodkin is shaken.
Bralin wastes no time and attacks the halfling in front of him. It's difficult to pin down exactly where he is. Roll a 20% miss chance.
Jozhur drinks his potion and is invisible. You do not see anybody who is obviously in charge.
Zeoll looks around. You can see a few sailors who seem to be captives. To preserve the DM's sanity, they are not on the map, but they are there on the ship, scattered among the combatants. Area-effect spells are a bad idea.
You see that you face two kinds of foes. The half-orc Bloodkin are armed with whips and daggers. There are also a couple of halflings, who seem only to have daggers on them.
One of the Bloodkin calls out, "arms, lads! We've been boarded!"
Bralin's halfling takes a step back and flings a bunch of daggers at him! The halfling seems to be able to draw weapons instantly! His throws, however, are not good enough to get through Bralin's armor.
Now that the halfling has made room, another of the Bloodkin moves forward to engage Bralin and attacks with a dagger. His blow, too, is not strong enough.
Meanwhile, two other Bloodkin attack Terser, including the one that is shaken. Terser is hit 4 times for a total of 28 damage.
Three more Bloodkin step forward. They don't seem affected by Drini's illusion. Each fires a longbow at Terser. One hits! Terser takes 8 more damage.
The remaining halfling moves forward, but does not attack yet.
The two Bloodkin in the stern do seem to be affected by Drini's illusion. They don't seem to be able to see the combat. One of them reaches into a locker and pulls something out.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday August 9th, 2018 1:00:17 AM
Please retro this move. 20 hours of travel from Madrid. Now need to drive a couple hours. I had previously said what he would do in my previous posts.
Rill casts Prayer and Dim Door for whomever is left.
Will post current move later.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) d20+19=31 ; Thursday August 9th, 2018 2:03:57 AM
Zeoll's invisibility ends.
He casts a Suggestion Spell on the Intimidated Fellow (standard action). He casts on the defensive so that he will not provoke AoOs. He needs a 21 and his concentration check is a +19. He rolls a 31, no problem.
"Hey, my fine frrightened fellow! I SUGGEST that you rrun away below deck immediately and hide forr the next 12 hourrs!
The spell has a will save of DC26 and no somatic component. The DM has the option to modify the save DC, per the write-up.
With his move action remaining, Zeoll uses his domain power to go invisible (move action). He could still be sensed or attacked, but that 50% miss chance is sure sweet.
Current Magic Status: Currently on Zeoll: Water Breathe, Extended Darkvision, Extended Protection from Arrows, Extended Nondetection, Mage Armor, Taur's Try (+1 perception), Magic Circle, Elf Vision, Water Walk, Haste.
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command x4 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat, restoration, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally
Sorc Spells: 1: 3 of 8 used (mage armor x3) 2: 0 of 8 used 3: 1 of 7 used (suggestion) 4: 0 of 4 used
Other resources: Cape: 1 of 1 used Horns: 2 of 4 used Invisibles: 2 of 10 used
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Thursday August 9th, 2018 10:22:04 AM
Tahni takes a 5ft step upwards (overland flight) from the action and casts off a few spells. She takes aim at what she thinks is the lead guy.
Free action: Retrieve Quicken Rod from Glove Swift action: Defensively Cast Blindness on Bloodkin lead guy (the one that called for arms). Fort Save vs DC22 or be Blinded Standard action: Defensively Cast Eyebite on lead guy. Fort Save vs DC26. Fail=Sickened for 140mins Move action: Turn invisible
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) d20+26=31 ; d100=6 ; 2d8+17=24 ; d20+22=36 ; d20+22=37 ; d20+17=26 ; d20+12=18 ; 6d8(7+1+5+3+3+1)+29=49 2d8(6+8)+29=43 2d8(4+2)+29=35 2d8(1+4)+29=34 Thursday August 9th, 2018 10:41:54 AM
It seems that it took Terser's mirrored duplicates an extra few seconds to make the jump with him, but they fade in around him, confusing the eye. won't worry about ret-conning, but my mirror images are on the map now He takes several hits, but each one hits slightly less hard than the deliverer thinks it should have. 36 damage over 5 hits (1DR) makes 31 total, then 1 regens from the ring
Before anything else, Terser surprises the halfling that attacked Bralin when he moved. unexpected strike AC31 for 24 damage, 6% makes that a miss if applicable.
After that, Terser unloads on the non-shaken man that stabbed him several times. If he goes down, additional attacks go to the next attacker in 15 foot range, lowest preference on shaken man.
haste +1 added after rolls 1st attack: AC 37 for 49 Haste: AC 38 for 43 2nd: AC 27 for 35 3rd: AC 18 for 34
Rage HP: 230/260 Rage/Enlarge/Horn/Haste AC: 22 Enlarge: 2/10 rounds Rage: 2/34 rounds Mirror Images: 3 hit submit too soon - edited to finish
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+19=35 ; d20+14=29 ; d8+5=9 ; d8+5=10 ; Thursday August 9th, 2018 3:58:30 PM
(OK, finally back in California and somewhat rested. I'll try to rephrase my prior post and add to it.)
With the DM's kind indulgence, last round, triggered by Zeoll receiving info from Aex, Rill cast Prayer on the party and then cast Dimension Door to place himself, Tahni and Leafy on the deck of the ship.
This round, Rill sizes things up and rather wishes he waited to cast Prayer until he was on the ship. Ah well. He looks to see if any here are undead (Deathwatch). Then he pulls up a Spiritual Weapon to smack that guy in the back pulling something out of a locker.
"Awright, the lot of you throw down your weapons now and surrender! Also, what are those three ships that pursue you? Who are they and where are they from?"
Spiritual Weapon Hits AC 36 for 9 damage Hits AC 30 for 10 damage
Prayer - You and each of your allies gain a +1 luck bonus on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks. -------------------------------- Spells Running: Status on all (extended from the night before), Longstrider (extended from the night before), Deathwatch, Tongues, Endure Elements, Prayer
Abilities/Items Agile Feet (Su) 11/day - Dim. Hop (Sp) 150'/day - Greater Insight (Sp) 2/day - Channel Energy (Su) 5/day - Obscuring Mist (Item) 2/day - Deathwatch (Item) Continuous Eagle's Splendor (Item) 1/day - Faerie Fire (Tattoo) - 3/day - MM Extend, Lesser (Item) - 6/day - MM Silent, Lesser (Item) - 3/day - MM Quicken, Lesser (Item) - 3/day - Endure Elements (Item) Tongues (class)
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) d100=62 ; d20+23=43 ; d20+23=26 ; d10+18=19 ; d10+18=27 ; d10+18=21 ; d6=1 ; d20+18=29 ; d10+18=20 ; d6=2 ; d20+13=26 ; d10+18=28 ; d6=3 ; d100=44 ; d100=16 ; d100=94 ; Thursday August 9th, 2018 5:40:52 PM 62 to overcome 20% miss chance from last round --- Bralin bats aside the thrown daggers, and blocks the new Bloodkin's blow. Using the momentum, the dwarf slams the foe with a tremendous backswing, and then keeps on battering him.
-- Full atk, Pwr Atk, Atk 1 Nat 20. Crit threat hits ac26. Crit damage 68 hp. Non crit is 20 hp (44 vs any miss chance) Atk 2 hits ac 29 for 22 hp damage (16 vs miss chance) Atk 3 hits ac 28 for 31 hp damage (94 vs miss chance)
--- Spells in Effect: Prayer Shield of Faith also flanking
Spell List Highlight to display spoiler: { 0 – Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Purify Food and Drink, Stabilize 1 – Rose’s Temperature Control, Divine Favor, Shield of Faith (x2)*, Identify (d) 2 – Align Weapon, Eagle’s Splendor, Lesser Restoration, Soften Earth and Stone (d) 3- Prayer, Stone Shape (d) Remove Blindness/Deafness }
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 d20+20=31 ; d20+20=35 ; 3d6+10=17 ; 3d6+10=17 ; d8=1 ; d8=6 ; d2=1 ; d2=1 ; d20+18=37 ; 2d8+10=16 ; Thursday August 9th, 2018 6:55:54 PM
Aex can sense her friends are now in a deadly dance with the Baracuda crew... in her heart she wants to head back as soon as possible and see if she can help... but her orders were clear... head out and find out what the other ships are all about and if needed stall them...
"Stay safe my friends... " she thinks as she flies - now invisible - towards the other ships. Fly speed 80ft - double move - can you 'run' during flight??
Leafy suddenly finds himself aboard the Barracuda with the blue halfling in front if him... Without hesitating he slams and bites at the sailor... Slam 1 hits AC31 - damage 17HP + 1HP Thundering + Thorns FORT SAVE DC19 or -1 DEX Slam 2 hits AC35 - damage 17HP + 6HP Thundering + Thorns FORT SAVE DC19 or -1 DEX Bite hits AC37 - damage 16HP
------------------------------------------------ ACTIVE SPELLS: Mage armor (cast by Zeoll) Message (cast by Zeoll) ------------------------------------------------ POTION INVENTORY: see char sheet ------------------------------------------------ SPELL LIST ( * = cast / A = AIR domain CL+4 DC+2 / ALL ELSE CL-2 / E = EVOCATION DC+1): ------------------------------------------------ 4 x Lvl 0: Flare (E), Light (E), Detect Magic, Know Direction 6 x Lvl 1: Create Water, Detect animals or plants, Produce Flame (E), Entangle, Faerie Fire (E), Cure Light Wounds + Obscuring Mist 6 x Lvl 2: Soften Earth and Stone, Flaming Sphere (E), Warp Wood, Wood Shape, Gust of Wind (E+A), Animal Trance + Fog Cloud 6 x Lvl 3: Call Lightning (E+A), Water Breathing, Wind Wall (E+A), Daylight (E), Sleet Storm, Quench + Call Lightning (E+A) 5 x Lvl 4: Ball Lightning (E+A), Flame Strike (E), Control Water, Cure Serious Wounds, Ice Storm + Sleet Storm 5 x Lvl 5: Transmute rock to mud, Move Earth, Control Winds (A), Call Lightning Storm (E+A), Wall of Fire (E) + Ice Storm (E) 4 x Lvl 6: Wall of Stone, Bull's Strenght Mass, Greater Dispel Magic + Control Winds (A) 3 x Lvl 7: Sunbeam (E), Heal, Wind Walk (A) + *Control Weather 1 x Lvl 8: *Animal Shapes + Whirlwind (E+A) ------------------------------------------------ 1/day: Dancing Lights, Ghost Sound, Prestidigitation, Speak With Animals. 10/day: Storm Burst 1d6+6 1/day: Lightning Lord (13 bolts) 13/rounds: Wooden Fist +7 damage 13/rounds: Bramble Armor 1d6+7 ----------------------------------------------
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+20=28 ; d20+20=21 ; d20+14=23 ; d20+20=37 ; 6d6=22 ; 6d6=26 ; 6d6=24 ; 6d6=26 ; 2d6=9 ; 2d6=11 ; 2d6=8 ; d20+34=48 ; d6+4=9 ; d6+4=8 ; d6+4=5 ; d4+2=6 ; Thursday August 9th, 2018 7:21:11 PM
Still invisible, Jozhur his short sword and a dagger as he moves to flank one of the half orcs attacking Terser. Once in position, he starts stabbing at the bloodkin furiously.
------------------------------------------------ OOC: Intended to move into position last round, but wanted some information first. DM discretion if a full attack will be allowed this round.
Stealth check if needed: 48 (68 with invisibility), hopefully enemy is flatfooted
First attack hits AC 28 with flanking (AC30 if not doing full attack): 9 damage, 37 sneak damage, 9 damage if evil
Haste attack misses with natural 1 Off hand attack hits AC 37, 6 damage, 26 sneak damage, 11 holy damage Second normal attack hits AC 23 with flanking: 4 damage, 26 sneak attack damage, 8 damage if evil
DM Kathy d20+4=22 ; d20+7=8 ; d20+7=8 ; d20+17=18 ; d20+17=34 ; d20+17=26 ; d4=1 ; d4=2 ; d8=8 ; d20+9=19 ; d20+9=25 ; d20+21=39 ; d20+16=36 ; d20+16=30 ; d20+11=31 ; d20+11=29 ; d3=2 ; d3=2 ; d4=2 ; d4=4 ; d3+1=4 ; 9d6=30 ; d20+21=32 ; d3=2 ; 9d6=39 ; Friday August 10th, 2018 12:39:01 AM Aexana continues to fly. Leafy attacks one of the halflings--please roll a 20% miss chance.
Zeoll casts a spell and offers a Suggestion to the shaken Bloodkin. He begins heading below, provoking an attack of opportunity from Terser. And from Zeoll if he wants to take it.
Tahni casts a couple of spells on the man who sounded the alarm, believing him to be the leader. He is blinded and sickened.
Terser's unexpected strike on the halfling missed due to displacement. He then proceeds to whale on the blinded and sickened guy, who is having the worst day ever. After taking him out, Terser moves on to the Bloodkin next to Bralin, who finishes him off.
Rill detects no undead through the Deathwatch. You conjure up a Spiritual Weapon to attack the Bloodkin at the locker, then ask about the pursuing ships. You don't get an answer. Well, you get a lot of stuff about your ancestry and personal habits, but nobody answers your questions.
By the time Jozhur has moved into position, his target is already down. He is still invisible.
Everybody if you attack one of the halflings, please roll a 20% miss chance. They are wearing cloaks of minor displacement, so that effect is always on.
The three Bloodkin who fired arrows last turn do so again, apparently not eager to close with Terser. One of them manages to hit the real Terser for 10 damage. One misses altogether, and one pops an image.
The halflings move to flank Terser, one of them provoking an attack of opportunity from Leafy. One attacks 3 times, popping two images, and landing a critical hit! Terser takes 34 damage, and begins bleeding heavily. [Terser has Bleed 9, meaning he will lose 9 points of damage at the beginning of each turn until healed magically.] The other can only attack once, but all the images have been popped, so he hits the real Terser. Terser takes an additional 41 damage.
One of the Bloodkin in the stern begins moving cautiously forward. It's clear that he is fooled by Drini's illusion, and is having trouble seeing through the "fog."
The one at the locker pulls out a signal rocket and lights it. The fog disguises its position somewhat, but it flares brightly enough that the other ships almost certainly saw it.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) d20+6=22 ; d4+1=5 ; d100=85 ; Friday August 10th, 2018 9:12:05 AM
Drini keeps on concentrating on the "fog" so long as one slaver is affected.
Zeoll takes his AoO: a forepaw lashes out at the shaken retreating Bloodkin and hits AC22. OOOH! Make that AC24 with the Haste and the Prayer! If that hits, Zeoll inflicts 1d4+1, or 5 damage.
Is that a halfling? If so, miss chance 85% is no problem.
========== IF his AoO hits, then Zeoll carefully cradles his bloody paw and uses a drop of the blood to cast his Nemesis Insight spell to gain an advantage over these loathsome Bloodkin. Finally, Zeoll activates an invisibility as a move action.
========== IF his AoO does not hit, then Zeoll instead casts a Will DC25 Hold Person on the archer fellow 20 ft to his west. If the fellow fails his save, Zeoll moves 15 ft west to stand right next to him, drawing his adamantine +1 heavy pick as he moves. Next round he hopes to coup de grace the dastard. If the fellow makes his save, Zeoll activates an invisibility as a move action.
========== Current Magic Status: (will be updated after If/Thens are resolved.) Currently on Zeoll: Water Breathe, Extended Darkvision, Extended Protection from Arrows, Extended Nondetection, Mage Armor, Taur's Try (+1 perception), Magic Circle, Elf Vision, Water Walk, Haste, Prayer.
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command x4 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat, restoration, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally
Sorc Spells: 1: 3 of 8 used (mage armor x3) 2: 0 of 8 used 3: 1 of 7 used (suggestion) 4: 0 of 4 used
Other resources: Cape: 1 of 1 used Horns: 2 of 4 used Invisibles: 2 of 10 used
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+33=34 ; Friday August 10th, 2018 9:06:18 PM
Jozhur holds back a sigh as his target falls after taking the time to position himself. Confident Terser and Bralin have the two around them in hand, Jozhur slips around behind the remaining enemies and prepares to attack.
Stealth: 55 with invisibility and prayer
Active effects: Prayer Haste
Current AC: 27 (31 vs opportunity attacks)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) d100=87 ; d20+22=25 ; 2d8+29=36 ; d100=49 ; d20+24=25 ; d20+24=33 ; d20+19=28 ; d20+14=26 ; d100=16 ; d100=85 ; d100=94 ; 2d8+29=37 ; 2d8+29=35 ; Friday August 10th, 2018 10:58:22 PM
If that halfling had to move two spaces, he has a surprise in store from an AoO. 87% = pass, AC 25 for 36 damage His armor does nothing to stop the crit coming through - he should really beef that up. His natural hardiness does blunt it a tiny bit, and his new ring from their grasslands adventure prevents his rogue wound from bleeding any more than normal.
ring of regeneration makes one immune to bleed damage =D and just in case, these guys need at least 11 rogue levels to sneak attack Terser (improved uncanny dodge)
Since these guys are playing for keeps, Terser moves himself to a better position with Bralin and tries to take out Blue. His first attack is a sure miss and the second goes through a blure, but the next ones may connect.
[i]1st attack nat 1 2nd attack: 16% misses deflection 3rd attack 85% overcomes deflection, AC 28 for 37 damage 4th attack 94% overcomes deflection, AC 26 for 35 damage
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d20+26=44 ; Saturday August 11th, 2018 1:03:13 AM
Tahni directs her Eyebite to another target. She directs it towards the nearest (alive) enemy, whilst also trying to blind one of the bloodkin.
She tries to gauge how far away those other ships were and how long it might take them to arrive.
---------------- Perception: 44 Swift action: Redirect Eyebite. Fort Save vs DC26. Effect depends on CR. Minimum Fail=Sickened for 140mins Standard action: Cast Blindness on the green/yellow Bloodkin. I'm colorblind so not really sure what color it is! :) Fort Save vs DC22 or be Blinded Move action: Go invisible again
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) d20+23=32 ; d100=95 ; d10+18=27 ; d6=3 ; d20+18=36 ; d100=16 ; d20+13=25 ; d100=36 ; d10+18=25 ; d6=6 ; Saturday August 11th, 2018 12:52:05 PM
In concert with Terser, Bralin takes a step, and now blue halfling finds himself flanked by the two dwarves.
The wavering image of the halfling thwarts him once, but the fighter lands two heavy blows.
--- 5' Step Full atk, Pwr Atk on blue halfling Atk 1 hits ac 32 - 95 overcomes displacement - for 30 hp damage Atk 2 misses due to displacement (16) Atk 3 hits ac 25 - 36 overcomes displacement - for 31 hp damage
--- Spells in Effect: Prayer Shield of Faith also flanking
Spell List Highlight to display spoiler: { 0 – Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Purify Food and Drink, Stabilize 1 – Rose’s Temperature Control, Divine Favor, Shield of Faith (x2)*, Identify (d) 2 – Align Weapon, Eagle’s Splendor, Lesser Restoration, Soften Earth and Stone (d) 3- Prayer, Stone Shape (d) Remove Blindness/Deafness }
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 d100=23 ; d100=72 ; d100=26 ; d100=10 ; d100=12 ; d100=34 ; d20+18=22 ; 2d8+10=12 ; Sunday August 12th, 2018 5:28:14 PM
Aex still flies on... can she get an estimate distance to the other three ships? Are they closing in on the Barracuda and her friends or are they not moving at all?
Leafy - miss chances last turn : Slam 1: 23% - hit Slam 2: 72% - hit Bite : 26% - hit
Leafy squeezes in next to Bralin and with his 10ft reach he attacks the blue halfling. Slam 1 - 10% miss chance - first attack goes wide Slam 2 - 12% miss chance - serious ?!? Bite - 34% miss chance - hits AC22 - damage 12JHP
It seems the lack of space causes Leafy to making clumsy attacks... hardly his bite hits but most likely he just hurts one of his wooden teeth...
------------------------------------------------ ACTIVE SPELLS: Mage armor (cast by Zeoll) ------------------------------------------------ POTION INVENTORY: see char sheet ------------------------------------------------ SPELL LIST ( * = cast / A = AIR domain CL+4 DC+2 / ALL ELSE CL-2 / E = EVOCATION DC+1): ------------------------------------------------ 4 x Lvl 0: Flare (E), Light (E), Detect Magic, Know Direction 6 x Lvl 1: Create Water, Detect animals or plants, Produce Flame (E), Entangle, Faerie Fire (E), Cure Light Wounds + Obscuring Mist 6 x Lvl 2: Soften Earth and Stone, Flaming Sphere (E), Warp Wood, Wood Shape, Gust of Wind (E+A), Animal Trance + Fog Cloud 6 x Lvl 3: Call Lightning (E+A), Water Breathing, Wind Wall (E+A), Daylight (E), Sleet Storm, Quench + Call Lightning (E+A) 5 x Lvl 4: Ball Lightning (E+A), Flame Strike (E), Control Water, Cure Serious Wounds, Ice Storm + Sleet Storm 5 x Lvl 5: Transmute rock to mud, Move Earth, Control Winds (A), Call Lightning Storm (E+A), Wall of Fire (E) + Ice Storm (E) 4 x Lvl 6: Wall of Stone, Bull's Strenght Mass, Greater Dispel Magic + Control Winds (A) 3 x Lvl 7: Sunbeam (E), Heal, Wind Walk (A) + *Control Weather 1 x Lvl 8: *Animal Shapes + Whirlwind (E+A) ------------------------------------------------ 1/day: Dancing Lights, Ghost Sound, Prestidigitation, Speak With Animals. 10/day: Storm Burst 1d6+6 1/day: Lightning Lord (13 bolts) 13/rounds: Wooden Fist +7 damage 13/rounds: Bramble Armor 1d6+7 ----------------------------------------------
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+20=23 ; d20+15=35 ; d20+15=32 ; d8+5=13 ; d8+5=9 ; d8+5=13 ; Sunday August 12th, 2018 7:17:52 PM
Rill directs Leafy to move up and attack the far halfling, assuming the blue one caught between two dwarves will not last long. Then Rill moves up through Zeoll's Square to avoid provoking an AOO, bumping into the old liontaur as he goes, and positions himself to act as a shield to Zeoll should it be needed. "I wonder what that flare was meant to signal. Best to be ready in any case." Rill Casts Moment of Prescience and keeps a sharp eye out for any new trouble.
Rill's Spiritual Weapon continues to smack that guy in the back that set off that flare.
Spiritual Weapon Hits AC 23 for 13 damage Hits AC 35 (crit), and rolls 32 to confirm the crit for either 9 or 22 (crit) damage
-------------------------------- Spells Running: Status on all (extended from the night before), Longstrider (extended from the night before), Deathwatch, Tongues, Endure Elements, Prayer, Moment of Prescience
Prayer - You and each of your allies gain a +1 luck bonus on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks.
DM Kathy d20+9=16 ; d20+7=9 ; d20+19=29 ; d20+19=34 ; d4=2 ; d4=2 ; d20+19=34 ; d4=1 ; Sunday August 12th, 2018 8:21:02 PM Zeoll does hit the Bloodkin during his Attack of Opportunity, so he uses the drop of blood to cast Nemesis Insight and gain an advantage for future attacks.
Jozhur repositions himself invisibly.
Tahni redirects her Eyebite to the blue halfling. He fails his save and is sickened. She casts Blindness on the fellow heading below, who is now blinded. She makes herself invisible again.
Terser attacks the blue halfling several times, but the attacks that aren't thwarted by the displacement don't hit a high enough AC.
Bralin hits the blue halfling once. However, given all of Leafy's damage from last round, once is enough. The halfling goes down.
Rill's spiritual weapon continues to thwack the guy at the back.
Aexana continues to fly. You can tell that the three ships are closing fast. And, from your current position, you can see that they are flying Bloodkin flags. You can also make out their names: the Hawk, the Kestrel, and the Condor.
The yellow Bloodkin completes his trip below, where, now blinded, he will probably follow Zeoll's suggestion to stay there. [I've moved him off to the side.]
The three Bloodkin who had been firing arrows now step up to engage Rill and Terser. One of them provokes from Terser; the other two can move up without provoking. Two of them attack Rill; both hit. Rill takes 16 damage from two hits. The other attacks Terser and also hits; Terser takes 7 points of damage.
The two blue Bloodkin are clearly affected by Drini's illusion fog. They continue moving forward, one provoking from the invisible Jozhur.
The halfling 5-foots back from Terser, looking to re-position himself.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 100/137 AC: 28/18/23 CMD: 22 d20+29=34 ; d10=9 ; d10=9 ; d10=8 ; d6=1 ; d6=4 ; Sunday August 12th, 2018 10:35:52 PM
Suddenly a small figure rushes out of the stairwell from below. Moving at a blistering pace it charges up to one of the Bloodkin Rill is fighting, hissing in rage, and slashes into his back with it's axe (37 to hit, 50 damage (5 less if not evil), he is now flanked).
The figure is no bigger than a Halfling and seems to be some sort of animal person - possibly a rat? Her fur is pure white, at least where it shows through the bloodstains currently coating it and her hide armor. At least some of the blood is hers but most of the rest seems to belong to whatever unfortunates were bellow decks. Her eyes are red, scars cover her body, and a holy symbol dangles from her neck. A keen eye can see that it's a symbol of.... Alemi?!?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Monday August 13th, 2018 6:14:44 AM "The rats on this ship grow big" Tahni's invisibility drops once more.
She moves her eyebite to another target and gets ready to deliver some healing to... to... Hey, we're actually doing quite well!
Tahni keeps up her relentless blinding assaults before hiding away again
---------------- Swift action: Redirect Eyebite. Fort Save vs DC26. Effect depends on CR. Minimum Fail=Sickened for 140mins Standard action: Cast Blindness on the the last halfling (or bloodkin if the halfling is dead). Fort Save vs DC22 or be Blinded Move action: Go invisible again
Eyebite: Rnd 3/15 Hide Away: 4 out of 11 used
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) d20+22=34 ; d20+22=34 ; 2d8+30=36 ; 2d8+30=41 ; d20+24=43 ; d20+24=34 ; 8d8=38 ; 4d8+30=44 ; d20+22=41 ; d20+22=39 ; 4d8+22=44 ; d20+17=33 ; 2d8+30=38 ; d20+12=17 ; 2d8+30=44 ; d20+24=39 ; Monday August 13th, 2018 4:11:51 PM
Though the charging man may have been ready for the first AoO, he certainly wasn't expecting the second one. quick reflexes - 2 per round while raging. Will do the first when the one who hit me moved from 15' to 10', 2nd when he moved 10' to 5'
AC 34 for 36 damage AC 34 for 41 damage Terser takes 6 damage (1DR) and heals 1
Letting the more accurate fighters take on the nimble halflings, Terser chooses to focus on the men stabbing Rill. And it's a good thing he had run out of opportunity attacks before the white rat woman charged into the fray so that she could show that she wasn't with the Bloodkin. Hopefully he can take good advantage of her positioning.
attacking diagonal up to flank with Fang - 1st attack AC 43 (crit confirm 34) - 38+60 = 98 damage (44 if no crit)
If the first target hasn't exploded from a mighty blow (massive damage) he keeps attacking it. If not, he'll move on to the other one on Rill.
Haste attack - (+2 if still flanking) AC41 crit confirm AC 39 22+60= 82 damage perhaps also dead from massive damage? if so, moving on to the one diagonal down from me
3rd attack: AC 33 for 38 damage 4th attack: AC17 for 44 damage if it hits
With several foes now missing limbs or heads or simply succumbing to death, Terser bellows at the remaining. Surrender now and you will be spared! You will be treated fairly, but we will not be lenient to those who traffic in slavery!Intimidate 39 at the crew
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+20=27 ; d20+15=33 ; d20+5=18 ; d8=8 ; d8=2 ; Monday August 13th, 2018 4:26:18 PM
The enemy of my enemy is my friend. Up until they turn on you.
Dressed in white robes with Gargul's holy symbol emblazoned on his chest, forehead and shield, it should be readily apparent that Rill is a servant of the god. He is aware of the disease of lycanthropy, and that it can transform a person into a crazed animal form. Which pretty much is how this new arrival looks. Maybe some poor, afflicted cleric of Alemi? Or maybe it's one of Maab's servants? She sends some weird stuff when Zeoll asks for help.
"Hey Zeoll, did you summon the rat?"
"Hey angry rat guy - thanks for the assist. Perhaps we can form an alliance for now. We are here to free the slaves aboard this ship. You looks pretty beat up - do you need healing?" He hopes a kind offer of healing will help. Rill maintains his position to continue to provide the thing a flanking bonus for now, so he does not move. Rill has a permanent Tongues ability, so he's confident he should be understood.
Rill uses Status to keep an eye on his friends' health and concludes none are really hurt but Terser, and that 'tis but a flesh wound for the dwarf. He also uses Deathwatch to know if Pinky here might also be undead.
Rill's Spiritual Weapon continues to smack that guy in the back that set off the flare.
Spiritual Weapon Hits AC 27 for 13 damage Hits AC 33 for 7 damage
-------------------------------- Spells Running: Status on all (extended from the night before), Longstrider (extended from the night before), Deathwatch, Tongues, Endure Elements, Prayer, Moment of Prescience
Prayer - You and each of your allies gain a +1 luck bonus on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+19=21 ; d20+22=26 ; d6+3=8 ; 6d6=17 ; 2d6=5 ; 2d6=9 ; 5d6=18 ; d6=6 ; d6+4=9 ; Monday August 13th, 2018 5:22:54 PM
Caught a bit off guard by his enemy rushing by, Jozhur takes an off balance swipe at the passing half orc. He then follows behind to help Terser dispatch these enemies.
Normal attack hits AC 26, 9 damage, 24 sneak damage, 9 damage if evil
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) d20+21=28 ; 3d10+18=36 ; d6=5 ; Monday August 13th, 2018 6:32:57 PM
Upon dispatching the second halfling, Bralin swivels his helmed head to seek the next foe.
Terser is shifting his attention to Rill, along with the giant white rat man of Alemi. Half expecting Zeoll to welcome the newcomer by name, the platemail encased dwarf move south of Terser to engage that Bloodkin.
As he hasn't responded to Terser's offer of surrender, Bralin works to persuade him...
--- Move to engage southernmost Bloodkin Pwr Atk, Imp Vital Strike Hits ac 28 for 41 hp damage
--- Spells in Effect: Prayer Shield of Faith
Spell List Highlight to display spoiler: { 0 – Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Purify Food and Drink, Stabilize 1 – Rose’s Temperature Control, Divine Favor, Shield of Faith (x2)*, Identify (d) 2 – Align Weapon, Eagle’s Splendor, Lesser Restoration, Soften Earth and Stone (d) 3- Prayer, Stone Shape (d) Remove Blindness/Deafness }
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 d20+20=32 ; 3d6+10=19 ; d8=4 ; d2=1 ; d20+20=36 ; 3d6+10=21 ; d8=5 ; d2=1 ; d20+18=25 ; 2d8+10=19 ; Monday August 13th, 2018 7:15:54 PM
The deck is getting pretty crowded but none the less Leafy hopes his reach will allow him to hit some of the nearest bloodkin...
Slam 1 hits AC32 - damage 19 + 4 sonic + thorns -1 dex save DC19 Slam 2 hits AC36 - damage 21 + 5 sonid + thorns -1 dex save DC19 Bite hits AC25 - damage 19
Aexana's nightmare came through... the other three ships are indeed bloodkin and they are closing fast... Her best chance to buy her friends some time it to stall these ships... airborne she casts a spell and almost immediately a huge tornado (+175Mph) that engulfs all three ships...
Control winds CL19 (air) - range 760ft - 760ft radius cilinder - blasting from her position straight at the 3 ships.
(Per spell description as of a hurricane most ships founder... this is even worse as it's the most powerful we can get this spell... )
Aex observes for a second what will happen with the ships...
DM Kathy d20+7=19 ; d20+9=14 ; d20+21=27 ; d20+21=25 ; d20+16=29 ; d20+16=27 ; d20+11=16 ; d20+11=12 ; d100=35 ; d100=83 ; d100=50 ; d3=3 ; 9d6=32 ; d20+17=19 ; d20+17=26 ; d20+12=13 ; d20+12=23 ; d4=1 ; d20+19=25 ; Monday August 13th, 2018 10:36:50 PM
And odd sort of mouse-person suddenly charges up from below and attacks one of the Bloodkin! Who is this--er, person?--and how did they come to be on this Bloodkin ship? Or did Zeoll just summon it? Because is it really any odder than a Sea Hag? Two Sea Hags?
Those questions probably need to be saved for later. For now, Fang hits one of the Bloodkin and damages him badly.
Tahni considers healing somebody, but doesn't see anybody that badly hurt. Your DM suspects that's because Terser isn't updating his header. For now, though, Tahni concentrates on Eyebiting and Blinding again. Both enemies fail their saves.
Terser readily dispatches two more Bloodkin.
Rill's Status tells him that the newcomer is not undead, that she has sustained some damage, but not much, and that she is female. [Not sure whether Status would actually give you that last one, but I thought it would be cool.] Rill's Spiritual Weapon continues to attack.
Jozhur keeps after his foe, injuring him badly.
Bralin finishes off the Bloodkin already injured by Terser's opportunity attack.
Aexana conjures up a strong wind, blowing the three Bloodkin ships away from the fog bank. Leafy is unfortunately not within reach of any opponents.
The remaining halfling and one of the remaining Bloodkin move to flank Jozhur [who has become visible now?]. The halfling is blind and has a miss chance, but he does manage to hit once for 36 damage, bleed 9. The Bloodkin does not have a flank, because the blind halfling does not threaten, but he attacks as best he can. He also hits once, for 7 damage.
The remaining Bloodkin moves to attack Fang, but misses.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) d20+25=26 ; Tuesday August 14th, 2018 12:18:40 AM
Zeoll bows to the large rodent person and calls out, "Hail and well met, fighterr of slaverrs! Welcome indeed!"
He looks around to see of he can see the other ships, and how far away they might be.
Perception 26
Fang (Mitch) HP: 100/137 AC: 28/18/23 CMD: 22 d20+30=37 ; d20+30=32 ; d20+25=26 ; d20+20=27 ; d10+18=23 ; d10+18=28 ; d10+18=28 ; d10+18=25 ; Tuesday August 14th, 2018 8:21:24 AM
The Ratfolk seems to note Zeoll's greeting, but then the Bloodkin's weapon bounces off her armor and she turns with a snarl to lay into him. It doesn't look like you're going to get a conversation out of her until the battle rage subsides.
Attack 1: 38 to hit, 23 damage Hast attack: 33 to hit, 32 damage Attack 2: nat 1 (miss) Attack 3: 28 to hit, 25 damage
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+20=33 ; d20+15=32 ; d8+5=7 ; d8+5=6 ; Tuesday August 14th, 2018 12:23:41 PM
Rill uses his Dimensional Hop ability to appear between two opponents, and will fight defensively raising his AC by 2. This will give Jozhur a flanking bonus, and hopefully not get Rill killed in the process.
His Spiritual Weapon continues to smack that guy that set off the flare.
Spiritual Weapon Hits AC 33 for 7 damage Hits AC 32 for 6 damage
-------------------------------- Spells Running: Status on all (extended from the night before), Longstrider (extended from the night before), Deathwatch, Tongues, Endure Elements, Prayer, Moment of Prescience
Prayer - You and each of your allies gain a +1 luck bonus on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) d100=67 ; d100=78 ; d100=43 ; d100=55 ; d20+22=31 ; d20+22=35 ; d20+17=28 ; d20+12=16 ; 6d8+30=61 ; 2d8+30=40 ; 2d8+30=35 ; Tuesday August 14th, 2018 2:10:20 PM
That Rill really needs a talking to. Terser just smacked down the guys trying to perforate him and he goes and puts himself in between two more. It seems Terser needs a talking to as well, since he likes tracking his HP in the post instead of modifying the header.
Still, he uses his reach while he has it, attacking the northernmost opponent and leaving the space between open for others to utilize. Hopefully he won't have to kill too many more of them before the others see reason and stand down.
percentile for displacement: 67, 78, 43, 55 - all ok
Attack 1 AC31 for 61 damage (massive kill maybe) Haste 2 AC35 for 40 damage Attack 3 AC28 for 35 damage Attack 4 AC16 miss
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+14=29 ; d20+9=25 ; d8+1=6 ; Tuesday August 14th, 2018 3:10:43 PM
Oops. Forgot to actually fight defensively. Rill strikes teh one to his north, and hits AC 29 for 6 damage.
"It's interesting that you lot are willing to die defending this ship. Either you're really committed to your cause, or there's something you fear more than death. Because you clearly are going to meet my Lord Gargul this day."
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) d20+21=28 ; d100=82 ; 3d10+18=30 ; d6=6 ; Tuesday August 14th, 2018 7:17:31 PM
Bralin tromps forward to the southernmost halfling. "You fight on?" he calls out, incredulous. "Madness."
However, the halfling's mental failing do not cause the dwarf to halt his blow. His axe whistles as it cuts through the air.
--- Move to engage southernmost halfling Pwr Atk, Imp Vital Strike Hits ac 28 (82 to overcome displacement) for 36 hp damage
--- Spells in Effect: Prayer Shield of Faith
Spell List Highlight to display spoiler: { 0 – Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Purify Food and Drink, Stabilize 1 – Rose’s Temperature Control, Divine Favor, Shield of Faith (x2)*, Identify (d) 2 – Align Weapon, Eagle’s Splendor, Lesser Restoration, Soften Earth and Stone (d) 3- Prayer, Stone Shape (d) Remove Blindness/Deafness }
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 70/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+19=22 ; d20+19=36 ; d20+19=22 ; d20+14=22 ; d6+4=7 ; d6+4=7 ; d6+3=7 ; d4+2=5 ; 6d6=22 ; 6d6=25 ; 6d6=22 ; 6d6=25 ; 2d6=6 ; 2d6=6 ; 2d6=7 ; d20+13=18 ; d6=2 ; Tuesday August 14th, 2018 7:32:09 PM
Jozhur shrugs off his injuries for now, though he knows he can't take much more of that. Knowing his friends will have his back, he continues his attack on the half orc while he sends his shadow to attack the other orc (how could I forget!).
------------------------------------------------------------------ Shadow's touch attack hits AC 18, 2 strength damage
Full two weapon attack, forgot +1 from haste, includes flanking bonus
First hits AC23: 7 damage, 22 sneak damage, 6 damage if evil Haste attack hits AC 36: 7 damage, 25 sneak damage, 6 more if evil Off hand hits AC 23, 5 damage, 22 sneak damage Second main hits AC 23, 7 damage, 25 sneak damage, 7 more if evil
Note that rogues and barbarians have uncanny dodge and generally cannot be flanked. Being blinded also prevents precision damage. The concealment from the halflings' cloaks also prevents Jozhur from sneak attacking them.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 d100=43 ; d20+20=22 ; 3d6+10=24 ; d8=4 ; d2=2 ; d100=52 ; d20+20=39 ; 3d6+10=21 ; d8=7 ; d2=1 ; Tuesday August 14th, 2018 7:35:20 PM
Aex casts an eye on the three ships hoping some might even founder... they are in the middle of a tornado... they sails should rip, masts should break... sailors over board... pure mayhem...
Seeing those three won't close range fast Aex turns around and spurs towards her friends again. She'll debrief and then see if there's anything left to mop up.
Leafy squeezes between Terser and Zeoll and goes after the red halfling. (Leafy has a 10ft reach)
Slam 1 - miss chance 42 - hits AC22 - damage 24 + 4 sonic + thorns -2 dex fort save DC19 Slam 2 - miss chance 52 - hits AC39 - damage 21 + 7 sonic + thorns -1 dex fort save DC19
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Tuesday August 14th, 2018 7:35:58 PM
She moves her eyebite to another target and goBlindedoes invisible once more
---------------- Swift action: Redirect Eyebite. Fort Save vs DC26. Effect depends on CR. Minimum Fail=Sickened for 140mins Move action: Go invisible again
Zeoll looks for any slaves who are in sight and tries to befriend them.
He calls out loudly, "This is no longerr a slave ship! Therre arre no slaves or captives on this ship! Only Frree Folk! Who will step forrth forr frreedom?!"
Diplomacy 43.
Got my Perception wrong last time. Shoulda been a 33.
DM Kathy Tuesday August 14th, 2018 10:23:46 PM Fang turns and finishes off the Bloodkin that had been battered by Rill's Spiritual Weapon.
RillDimension Hops over and attacks defensively, much to Terser's frustration.
Terser and Bralin finish off the halfling.
Jozhur finishes off the final Bloodkin, leaving Tahni with nobody to Eyebite.
Zeoll calls out to the former captives. Most of them just blink at you, stunned from the suddenness of the attack and their freedom. One or two stand and hold up their shackles, still locked in place. They're not free yet.
Aexana glances at the three other ships. The downside to a 90-mile-per-hour wind in a 760-foot cylinder is that things blow through there pretty quickly. The ships were only in the area for a few seconds before being blown out of the area of effect. They are pointed entirely the wrong way, and appear to still be spinning. They seem to have sustained some damage, but as far as you can tell, the masts and sails are sill in place. And of course the winds are still blowing. You turn and head back to your companions.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d8=4 ; d8=4 ; d8=3 ; Wednesday August 15th, 2018 5:41:01 AM
Tahni nods in satisfaction. That Eyebite spell worked nicely. "Might have to remember that one"
She drops her invisibility spell and looks about the deck. There is a hint of a smile at seeing all the slavers are dead. Truth be told she wasn't exactly hoping there would be any left as captives.
Tahni looks about the deck and can now see the strange rat-person more clearly. It looks hurt. She cautiously approaches, walking slowly and holding her open hands before her. "I'm Tahni, ok? You look a little hurt. I'm going to try and treat that if you'll let me" She hasn't heard this creature speak yet so isn't quite sure if it understands her. The best way to show friendship however would be to help it heal.
Cast CSW. Rat-person is healed for 26pts
Fang (Mitch) HP: 137/137 AC: 28/18/23 CMD: 22 d8=7 ; Wednesday August 15th, 2018 7:45:55 AM
Fang looks about for more enemies. Seeing none, she takes a deep breath and calms down. She looks about again at party, focusing on Tahni as she walks up, and seems to recognize the group. She grins, baring all of her fangs and stretching a particularly nasty threesome of scars that go from just over her left eye to the bottom of her muzzle.
Tahni you said? You're the Lionfishers. I've been looking for you for a month. Truly the gods have a strange sense of humor that I'd find you only after I gave up.
As the Witch's healing flows through her she notes that not all her wounds are gone so she touches her holy symbol and casts Cure Light Wounds to top off (12 more healed). My name is Fang, Cleric and servant to Alemi, God of All. I had plans to start a slave revolt to wipe this slaver disease from the face of the Wold. With your help we can crush the Bloodkin."
She eyes the oncoming ships, trying to judge how long they have, though she has absolutely no experience in such things. "If you have further questions ask them quickly; the enemy will soon be upon us again."
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d8=5 ; d8=8 ; d8=1 ; d8=7 ; d20+31=41 ; Wednesday August 15th, 2018 11:54:27 AM
Rill is still not sure about this beat-up rat-woman-thing, though her professed allegiance to Alemi is a good sign. He uses Sense Motive (41) to determine if she is trying to mislead them about who she is or why she is here. He smiles as she describes her god as the "god of all," and is also amused to hear her describe the Black Lions is being here to help her. He smooths his robes, instantly returning them to their clean and pressed condition as he speaks.
His spiritual weapon in the form of a staff returns to his side.
"Greetings - Fang is it? I am Rillett Savenport, servant of the Lord of Life and Death, and I am pleased to meet you. We are indeed the Black Lions, or Lionfishers as we are sometimes called. Please tell us why you seek us. Regarding the incoming ships, we have another compatriot delaying them. I can sense where she is and that she is unhurt and in good health - no doubt she will be back soon to let us know what is going on with those ships we cannot see.
"Also, let's be aware that signal could also have alerted those on the island as well."
Rill will use Deathwatch to scan the fallen and see if any remain alive. "Remember, there is still at least one opponent down below, sent there by Zeoll. Has anyone seen any keys so we can unlock these poor unfortunate souls?"
Then he moves to Jozhur to address the rogue's wounds, casting Cure Serious Wounds for 35 points. He pulls out a wand. He plans to tend to Terser once his Rage wears off.
-------------------------------- Spells Running: Status on all but Fang (extended from the night before), Longstrider (extended from the night before), Deathwatch, Tongues, Endure Elements, Prayer, Moment of Prescience
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.
Zeoll telepathically communes with Drini. He tells her how great she did! And now he has a new job for her ... To fly up and out, looking for the other pirate ships and Aexana. And to please be invisible as she flies for safety. And to come back into Message spell range so she can tell him what she sees.
After renewing the Message spell, and after the fairy bunny flies off, Zeoll holds his hand out to the mousekin. "I am Zeoll, Captain of the Lionfish, and I'm happy to find an ally on this ship, a place in which I expected only villains and victims."
Finally, Zeoll shushes his friends for a moment, and he tries to use his nose and ears to detect any sign of the other ships.
That's a base +30 +2 elf vision +2 seer voices, for +34, and I forgot a +1 Taurs Try.
Perception 55!!!
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Wednesday August 15th, 2018 6:33:09 PM
"Bralin Stoneminder," the armor clad dwarf declares to Fang by way of greeting, adding a curt nod. "We already quest to wipe out the Bloodkin. You aid is welcome."
Figuring if anyone knows where the keys are, it would be the people locked up, he turns to one of the former captives who have extended their shackles.
"Where are the keys? Quickly now, more ships are coming."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 137/137 AC: 28/18/23 CMD: 22 Wednesday August 15th, 2018 6:45:57 PM
Fang momentarily wonders if she's gone mad, thinking enemies where on the way when none where in sight. Then Rill speaks up and she's reassured, though still confused as to how she knew that.
She does her best to answer his question. "I'm guessing you've never seen one of my race. For the most part we're disregarded or considered savage monsters. For half my life i've been a cleric of Alemi and I've worked hard to change that impression. The best possible way I could do that would be to become a member of the Dragon Consortium. They only accept groups however.
So for the past year I've learned all I can about the most powerful adventurers in the Wold. Three names always came up: The Iron Dragons, who likely wouldn't accept a new member, the Keepers of the Vale in Cinnamon Valley, and the Lionfishers in Bonetown. I resolved to set out to join one of these groups in hopes they would one day be accepted as Dragons."
She pauses a moment. I assumed you had arrived to destroy the slavers as I hoped to do. Are you? As for the keys and the guard that ran bellow have no worries. I already defeated the guards there and freed some of the slaves so that they could free their fellows - they have the keys. They should easily be able to lock away the last guard before the spell ends."
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Wednesday August 15th, 2018 7:53:16 PM "The Dragon Consortium. So you seek to become a member, eh?
Rill will bend down so that he does not tower over Fang.
"You are right that they only accept groups, and only groups that have proven their ability to fight as a team. The Dragon Consortium has told us they have many enemies, and are very particular about whom they allow to join their groups. If they should offer the Black Lions membership in their league, we would need to vouch for anyone that has newly joined us.
"I mean no disrespect, but we do not know you Fang. It usually takes months or years to full understand a person and build the kind of relationships the Black Lion's have. Will you allow me to look into your soul to understand who you are? It will not hurt, but such an act is considered a deep invasion of privacy if done without consent.
"Understand that this is not a requirement for you to continue with is, and I certainly not hold it against you if you do not agree at this time - or ever. I see it as a shortcut for what you seek, and a sign that you trust us. Will you, Fang, allow me to probe the depths of your soul to fully understand your personality?"
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Wednesday August 15th, 2018 8:13:06 PM
Leafy quietly looks at the furry thing... he waits for Aexana to return to make formal greetings...
Pleased the other three ships are being slowed down in their advance on the Barracuda Aex races back to her friends. As soon as she gets there she'll inform Zeoll, who should still be able to understand her, of what she saw...
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 105/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+23=25 ; Wednesday August 15th, 2018 10:11:14 PM
Jozhur is a bit surprised at the sight of a rat person, that's something new to him. He gets over it quickly when Fang mentions wiping out the Bloodkin. The human offers a handshake to Fang, "Jozhur Derile, we call ourselves the Black Lions. You'll have to get the name right if you wish to sail with us." He pauses and winks at Fang, making sure she knows he is joking.
Jozhur sighs at Rill's mention of his creepy soul viewing ability. "Ugh, don't mind Rill, he means well. Besides, he's right. We will know we can trust you fully."
He asks Aex/Zeoll where the last know location of the Bloodkin ships and keeps a close watch for them. (perception: 25)
DM Kathy Wednesday August 15th, 2018 10:18:01 PM Tahni introduces herself to the newcomer, and Fang says she's been looking for you!
Rill uses his Deathwatch, and can tell that the fallen foes here on the deck have all passed on to Gargul. He mentions that one of them went below--however, that fellow went below shortly before Fang came up. Did she dispatch him on her way up the ladder?
[Mitch, you get to decide whether your character would have done that or not.]
Bralin asks about the keys. Trembling, one of the slaves replies: "a-at the h-helm. Sir. I think." You go to look, and sure enough, there is a ring of keys hanging from a hook near the helm.
Zeoll sends Drini off to scout, then looks around himself. You don't hear anything that sounds like a ship, but you do hear what sounds like very strong winds!
Aexana continues to fly, and gets close enough to communicate with the Lionfish. Drini, who basically flew a large loop, also gets within communication distance, but given her--eccentric phrasing, it's probably best to get the report from Aex.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Thursday August 16th, 2018 12:29:36 AM
Terser introduces himself and drops his rage, assuming he'll have time to recover before the ships arrive.
Fatigued 10 rounds HP 94/200
Fang (Mitch) HP: 137/137 AC: 28/18/23 CMD: 22 Thursday August 16th, 2018 1:33:26 AM
Fang cocks her head and considers. "Do what you will. I have no secrets from you for I wish to earn your trust." She braces herself for whatever this soul looking thingy entails.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Thursday August 16th, 2018 7:08:59 AM
Tahni smiles somewhat politely to Fang but does take a step back. She has never seen this type of creature before.
While Rill conducts a soul check, Tahni makes her way around the deck to kick at the toes of each of the corpses just to be sure they are dead. She has full faith in Rill's ability to detect signs of death, but there is a small sense of satisfaction to see it for herself.
She takes to gathering up any items she can and also checks the contents of the locker. If any of the corpses wears some kind of uniform or some distinct item of clothing she will also try and get that too. If the party have to disguise themselves later this sort of thing might come in handy.
Knowl Arcana: 20 - To work out just what Fang actually is
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday August 16th, 2018 11:16:55 AM
(I assume the other three ships are at least several minutes away, even if the wind holding them back was stopped.)
Rill takes off his helmet as he sits on the deck and looks at Fang. "Alright then my friend. Just relax."
Rill uses his Probe Psyche ability. If Fang is voluntarily submitting to this, there is no need for a will save. Rill will know her alignment and personality, gets a sense of her past lives, and anything else that makes her uniquely her. This causes his eyes to turn a milky white and takes about a minute. (Let me know if there is anything I should know about her beyond what's on her character sheet.)
When he is done with the deeply personal experience he regards Fang for a moment, touched by the sadness she has seen. "You have seen great pain in your life, but that is crucially important to who you have become."
Rill then stands and and smooths his robes as he says to the others, "Fang is who she says she is. She stubborn, but we have dwarves so we're used to that. She has a penchant for violence, but that no longer controls her actions. She is committed to her service to Alemi and is a healer at heart. She cares for the downtrodden and forgotten, and is likely a champion for the underdog. For my part, I say she is a goodly person and I am glad to have her aboard." Rill reaches down to shake her - hand? paw? - in welcome.
"Hey Aex - how far out are those three ships?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 122/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) d6=5 ; d6=3 ; d6=6 ; d6=5 ; d6=4 ; d6=4 ; Thursday August 16th, 2018 5:06:06 PM
Terser tries to keep his patience long enough for Bralin to grab the ring of keys. As worked up as he is, despite so short a battle, it's all he can do to keep from just smashing through the chains with his cestus. Still, these chains can be put to a good use now that they're no longer restraining good folk.
He sees Fang breathing heavily after the battle in a similar way to himself. He recognizes another fighter that can fuel strength from rage, and gives his quick approval to including her with the crew, so long as she gets on with the others.
Should Rill point out any of the slavers that are still living, he will chain them up before releasing a wave of positive energy, hoping to begin the healing of the former slaves by at least healing the chafing from the manacles.
Heal all for 27
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Thursday August 16th, 2018 6:34:04 PM
Bralin trots over to the helm, grabs up the keys, trots back to the fellow, unlocks his bonds, and then hands him the keys.
"Tis a stout heart that speaks up in spite of his fears," he tells the man. "We are the Black Lions, and we will see this through until all enemies are vanquished. Now, loose these others while I prepare for the next assault."
Turning to Rill and the newcomer, he also extends a hand to Fang. "I also have a penchant for violence. Welcome to the Black Lions."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 137/137 AC: 28/18/23 CMD: 22 Thursday August 16th, 2018 7:24:08 PM
Fang shudders as the soul gaze happens. It's rather disturbing, almost like... well having someone gaze into your soul. She is slightly disappointed that it wasn't two way and the whole thing has her feeling rather disgruntled and uncomfortable. She has to remind herself not to hold it against Rill as he did ask and she gave her permission. Just as long as he never does that again. Though why would he?
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Thursday August 16th, 2018 8:05:50 PM
Through Zeoll, Aex informs all of the three other Bloodkin vessels and how they are slowed down... but since no ships are destroyed they are imminent...
"What now?" she asks Zeoll...
Leafy raises a branch as he sees Aex...
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 105/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d4=4 ; d20+26=46 ; d20+26=33 ; d20+26=27 ; d20+26=33 ; Thursday August 16th, 2018 9:41:14 PM
Thinking some of the slaves may help in the upcoming fight, Jozhur tries to make himself useful by helping unlock the slaves' shackles more quickly. He does his best to hurriedly pick the locks, starting as far away from slave with the keys as possible. He offers the weapons on the deck to anyone wanting to fight.
DM Kathy Thursday August 16th, 2018 11:55:38 PM
You continue getting to know Fang. She seems like a decent person, if a bit more aggressive than your typical servant of Alemi.
Tahni walks through the aftermath of the battle, and can confirm that the Bloodkin and halflings are really most sincerely dead. Terser lets out a burst of healing, which helps his companions and the slaves--but the Bloodkin and halflings are beyond help. Really really.
Bralin retrieves the keys, and soon the shackles are being unlocked.
The worry now is the three approaching ships, which you can no longer see at this point because of the fog. You can hear that Aexana's winds are still blowing, but you don't know what the ships are doing in response.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Friday August 17th, 2018 11:23:02 AM
Tahni looks about the deck to get an idea of what resources might be available. Different flags that could be used to signal the other ships, the quality of the sail and the wheely-bit.
"Might be worth throwing the bodies below. If the other ships send scouts we should try and make things look ok at a casual glance"
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Friday August 17th, 2018 3:12:52 PM "Perhaps those bodies can be weighted and sunk to dispose of them. As Tahni suggested, we should remove any sort of uniform they may have for use later."
Rill will cast Detect Magic, and then check above and below decks for any sources of magic. Rill looks for anything that could be used to weight and sink the dead. He also tries to get a headcount of the number of slaves on the vessel.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Friday August 17th, 2018 6:21:28 PM
Bralin is dubious.
"This vessel sent a signal, fog has rolled in unexpectedly, and someone cast a tornado at them," he points out.
"If they have any skills, they know their comrades are at best under siege." He eyes Rill and Zeoll. "Should they be capable of scrying us, could we detect it?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 123/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Friday August 17th, 2018 6:45:33 PM
"Hey, all those chains are a good weight. If any of the freedmen are willing, perhaps they could don the uniforms and equipment of the slavers, and we could claim to have repelled the invaders."
round 4/10 fatigued
Fang (Mitch) HP: 137/137 AC: 28/18/23 CMD: 22 Friday August 17th, 2018 7:04:03 PM
Fang is doubtful of them having much success in fooling the other Bloodkin. "We should attack now, while the other ships are foundering in the fog, not wait for them to surround us and force is into an unfavorable fight against all three crews at once."
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 105/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Friday August 17th, 2018 8:43:22 PM
Jozhur nods in agreement with Fang, "I don't think even Zeoll and I could convince them nothing is amiss. We need to defeat them, and it is probably best we do so before they reach port, or we will have even more enemies to deal with at once." He looks around the ship, any siege weapons?
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Friday August 17th, 2018 11:46:09 PM
Zeoll frowns. "My skin crrawls with the thought of wearring these uniforms. Ourr aim should be to rreduce them by forrce of arrms and magic. Let us find these otherr ships and do so."
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Saturday August 18th, 2018 1:00:54 AM "Yeah, you'd have trouble with those pants Zeoll."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 AC: 30/20/25 CMD: 22 Saturday August 18th, 2018 7:15:18 PM
(Fixing header, Rill pointed out I forgot to adjust HP and AC after I bought magic items, and added a spell list.)
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 AC: 30/20/25 CMD: 22 Spell List Saturday August 18th, 2018 7:21:29 PM
(Attempt 2)
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Saturday August 18th, 2018 7:28:19 PM
Zeoll laughs at Rill's remark.
"The elderly sometimes do get too serious," he says. "But I still say, take the battle to the enemy, and win!"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Sunday August 19th, 2018 5:01:26 AM "Sometimes force and magic may not be enough. Stealth and infiltration are sometimes a necessity" Tahni isn't prepared to throw away the uniforms just yet.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Sunday August 19th, 2018 8:19:55 PM
Seeing her friends down on the ship still working tactics, Aex decides it's probably best to keep an eye out on the other ships for now. She does not disband the fog nor the tornado.
She quickly flies out of the fog again hoping to see the other ships still struggling to get round the tornado field...
Leafy stands guard and patiently waits for new orders.
DM Kathy Sunday August 19th, 2018 10:25:45 PM Tahni does a quick inventory of the ship. You see that the sails and helm are in good working order. You see a few signal flags stored in one of the lockers, and a couple more signal rockets in another locker.
Rill looks for anything that might be used to sink the bodies. Your best option is probably the shackles that the slaves have just removed. You cast Detect Magic, but don't find anything other than the magic on your companions.
Bralin points out that acting inconspicuous may not be the best option, given all that's happened. Although the fog came before the signal rocket, not after. Still, it's likely the incoming ships are already on alert.
Terser suggests that the slaves put on the Bloodkin uniforms, a plan which has one tiny drawback; the Bloodkin do not have uniforms. A couple of them have red-and-black bandanas, and a couple of them have tattoos, but they don't seem too big on uniformity.
Fang suggests an immediate attack, although you still don't know exactly where the incoming ships are. Zeoll is also in favor.
Jozhur looks around for siege equipment, and can easily see that the Barracuda has two ballistae.
Aexana goes to check on the other ships. They are, indeed, making their way around the strong winds and choppy waters of the miniature hurricane. You estimate that you have a minute or two before they reach the fog bank.
The former slaves are now free. The bodies are still on deck. The fog still hampers vision. Your swan boat is still floating out there somewhere. Since nobody has been manning the helm or the sails of the Barracuda, you're not sure how far you've drifted or even which direction you're pointing.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Monday August 20th, 2018 1:27:10 PM "Let's assume those additional ships will be upon us in about a minute.
"I can hit a couple of you with Air Walk, and I have another Dimension Door to move six more medium creatures once. Zeoll, can you summon a creature that can man that ballistae? I could rain down a firestorm on a ship, but that may also kill some slaves. I can also summon a Greater Elemental to do some damage, or hold up one of the ships for a bit."
Also, Rill did a head count earlier of the number of slaves on this ship. How many are there?
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 123/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34, channel 5) Monday August 20th, 2018 5:34:28 PM
Terser calls among the new crew to see if any have battle experience and would be willing to man the ballistae, and help repel any boarders. There are plenty of weapons around to arm them.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 AC: 30/20/25 CMD: 22 Spell List Monday August 20th, 2018 6:41:29 PM "I have water walking but am unsure of if I can scale the side of a ship." Fang tells the others. She helps arm the slaves and pick out volunteers as well. She regrets not having Magic Weapon prepared today - she could have buffed any non-magical weapons the slave volunteers had.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Monday August 20th, 2018 7:11:40 PM
Aex rushes bach towards the Barracuda and informs her friends the three ships are on top of them in a couple of minutes.
She asks Zeoll if it would make sense to have them board a ghost ship... making sure everyone is in the swanboat or so and just wait for the right moment again.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Monday August 20th, 2018 7:23:48 PM
Bralin nods to Rill.
"I would like the Dimension Door." he notes. After that, he can only wait.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Monday August 20th, 2018 8:50:23 PM "Ok. You, you, you and you. Can you please drag these bodies below deck? Any of you without combat experience should also head down below" Tahni is feeling bolder and directs some of the former slaves to drag the slaver bodies below and for the combat-inexperienced of them to also head below deck. Regardless of whether the bodies can be seen or not by the enemy, they would get in the way should a fight ensue. Since this ship has some ballistae it is also probable that the other ships have some sort of siege weapons as well. The slaves would be safer below deck she reasons. There is no way the inexperienced among them could fight toe-to-toe with a pirate.
Tahni thinks now is the time for a little backup so casts one of her newly gained spells: Greater Immortal Summons. She'd only recently met with Amith back in Bonetown in her room when Maab had sent him to her. This seems like a situation where he could help.
When she finishes the spell there is a tall phoenix-like humanoid standing on the deck. In his right hand he holds a spear tipped with sharp crystal, reminiscent of the crystal meteors.
"Can I assume you called me here because there is about to be a fight?" He asks as he looks about the party and then the horizon.
Tahni nods. "Pretty much. Everyone, this is Amith. Maab has given her blessing that he may occasionally answer my call"
Tahni leaves out the part where Amith is only here as a form of penance for his previous deeds.
DM Kathy Monday August 20th, 2018 10:29:40 PM Aexana returns and reports on what she has seen.
Rill has been able to determine that there are 14 slaves on the ship. All are male; most are human. Rill suggests some spells and tactics for the upcoming battle.
Terser asks whether anybody has battle experience and can man the ballistae. There are two dwarves and one human who claim some knowledge of combat, but no experience with siege weapons. Another human man says that he has been taught how to use a ballista, but has never used one in combat.
Fang helps get weapons into the hands of the slaves that know how to use them. There are plenty of knives lying around, for example.
Bralin, at least, would like to be Dimension Doored to one of the inbound ships.
Tahni instructs the other former slaves to move the bodies below, which they begin doing. She summons an imposing-looking bird person and introduces him as Amith.
A plan is coming together, but it is somewhat lacking in detail. For example, it is unclear how much good the ballistae will do when visibility is so poor. And although you don't need to see your target with Dimension Door, you do need to have some idea where you're going, and hitting a moving target in the fog might be a bit difficult.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Tuesday August 21st, 2018 12:54:11 PM
Though glad to have more assistance, Rill is always a bit apprehensive when Maab sends aid. She's just so chaotic. Nonethless, there's no harm in being polite.
Rill inclines his head to this newcomer. "Greetings Amith. Nice spear. I am Rillett Savenport."
"As for our plan, it would be nice to make sure those three ships are headed our way. I'd hate for us to get ready for something that isn't going to happen. Also, it would be helpful if someone could fetch that Swan Boat I created. It may prove helpful in rescuing some of the slaves on all these ships. Perhaps Amith and Drini could help with these things, given that they can fly."
Rill will cast Air Walk on Bralin and Terser. He will cast more spells soon.
"Terser, how's your healing coming? Do you need anymore, or is that ring dong the trick? My thinking is that once those three ships come into sight, I will cast Obscuring Mist to allow anyone operating the ballistae to see out, but gain some defensive benefit. Then I will Dimension Door with Bralin, Terser, Fang and maybe a couple more folks into the thick of it on one of the other ships. Terser, please hold off enlarging yourself, as that limits how many people I can move."
"All of this will be subject to change as the situation develops."
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 153/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) Tuesday August 21st, 2018 3:43:13 PM since our DM said the other ships are delayed a few minutes by the fog and tornado, I'll go ahead and bump up my hp by 30 from the ring. I could still use a top up. I also only have one enlarge a day, so that's out for the next fight.
Terser reacquaints himself with his air legs and waits on the teleport. He also directs all four of the former slaves to one ballista and asks them to work together to try to put a hole in one of the ships at the waterline. But not the ship that Rill pops them over to.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 105/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Tuesday August 21st, 2018 5:01:02 PM
Jozhur volunteers for the dimension door, but also let's the others know he can fly with his armor if need be.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Tuesday August 21st, 2018 5:46:50 PM
Bralin nods to Amith.
He idly wonders if perhaps he too will be expected to produce a companion.
The dwarf accepts the Air Walk spell, and waits.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Tuesday August 21st, 2018 9:02:23 PM
Aex is getting worried... she fears what will happen when those two ships are on top of the Barracuda suddenly... Leafy too will follow wherever the crew decides to go...
The greenmage does not want to dispel the fog just yet. After all, that is, hopefully, hiding all that is happening here at sea from the ones in the village...
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Tuesday August 21st, 2018 9:26:35 PM
Zeoll and Drini fly and water walk over to the swan boat and steer it to the captured ship while they have a moment.
Current Magic Status: Currently on Zeoll: Water Breathe, Extended Darkvision, Extended Protection from Arrows, Extended Nondetection, Mage Armor, Taur's Try (+1 perception), Magic Circle, Elf Vision, Water Walk.
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command x4 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat, restoration, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally Sorc Spells: 1: 3 of 8 used (mage armor x3) 2: 0 of 8 used 3: 0 of 7 used 4: 0 of 4 used Other resources: Cape: 0 of 1 used Horns: 2 of 4 used
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 AC: 30/20/25 CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday August 21st, 2018 10:03:00 PM
Fang is getting tired of discussion and waiting. They know where the enemy is and it is time to fall upon them with righteous fury. Or something. Honestly it's just the waiting that's getting to her, it feels like the enemy has been almost upon them for days even though she knows it's only been a few minutes.
DM Kathy Tuesday August 21st, 2018 11:57:17 PM Rill wants to be sure that there really are ships headed your way, but Aexana's eyewitness report was pretty specific. He reminds Terser to heal himself, and further refines the plan. He asks that somebody get the swan boat, and Zeoll and Drini oblige.
Terser directs the former slaves to one of the ballistae. This results in momentary confusion, as most of the slaves don't have combat experience and are still hauling bodies below. The man who knows how to fire a ballista is already at one of them, going over the mechanism as if trying to remind himself how it works. The three who armed themselves with knives eventually go over and join him, looking a little confused about what they're supposed to do.
The rest of the group waits, with varying degrees of patience.
Soon, you hear a faint shout. The shouting gradually comes closer, accompanied by the creaks and soft splashes of a ship in motion. "Ahoy!" the voice shouts. "Barracuda, ahoy!"
You can tell roughly which direction the shouts are coming from, but you cannot yet see the ship in the fog.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 AC: 30/20/25 CMD: 22 Spell List d20+6=14 ; Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 7:17:24 AM
Fang draws her axe and crouches down behind the railing. She's never been terribly great at stealth, but with the fog and how short she is she hopes to get the drop on the enemy and not instantly reveal any deception the rest of the group tries (stealth 14).
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 8:09:00 AM
Amith doesn't acknowledge the rest of the party and you now get the distinct impression he isn't 100% keen on being here. Sure he'll do what he can as best he can, it's just there are other things he would rather be doing right now.
Tahni is pretty oblivious to it though. There's too much going on and too much tension as the other ship approaches.
She takes a step backwards, away from the direction of the approaching ship. She tries to position herself near Terser and waits to see if anyone will call back to the ship.
"Don't say anything that may cause them to bindly fire in our direction. We can't respond in kind in case they have slaves on desk" she whispers towards Zeoll
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d8=5 ; d8=3 ; d8=5 ; d8=3 ; d8=6 ; d8=5 ; d8=2 ; d8=5 ; d8=2 ; d8=6 ; Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 12:16:29 PM
In the minute or two that passed, Rill used a wand to heal Terser several times. (42 points of healing.).
As he responds to the voice from the fog, he touches Terser with an extended "Shield of Faith for 30 min of a +4 deflection bonus to AC.
" Ahoy, this is the Barracuda. We were attacked but managed to repel the skum. We cannot see you so state your business or we'll defend ourselves from you too. "
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 195/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 5:47:30 PM
Terser silently thanks Rill for the heal and the shield, then remains silent to see if their ruse works. He's still ready for the port over.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 6:23:35 PM
Zeoll disembarks from the swan boat and water walks around to the side of the boat away from the call. He casts Summon Fey Friend 4. He urges Drini to stay close and invisible.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 6:32:02 PM
Bralin waits.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 7:10:26 PM
Aex stirrs as she hears Rill calling out to the ships... he hails as if he doesn't know these three ships while in fact they were sailing under the bloodkin flag... She holds her calm and waits what will happen.
Leafy is taking cover and tries to hide.
DM Kathy Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 11:31:32 PM
While most of the party stays quiet and inconspicuous, Rill calls an answer back into the fog.
"That you, Jaff?" the voice calls back uncertainly. After some low-voiced conversation, it calls, "Where's Cap'n Volaint?"
You can now see the outline of this ship through the fog.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Wednesday August 22nd, 2018 11:33:24 PM
(Rill is aware these are Bloodkin ships named the Hawk, the Kestrel, and the Condor. But these ships were a bit behind this one. Since the Barracuda was attacked, I figured the response would be a cautious one.)
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Thursday August 23rd, 2018 7:28:06 AM
Tahni ducks low to get closer to the deck. She gives a tug at Amith but he refuses to budge. He just tightens his grip on his spear.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 AC: 30/20/25 CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday August 23rd, 2018 8:29:56 AM
Fang hopes they get close enough for her to leap across to the other ship. Or maybe swing on a rope? That seems like the nautical thing to do.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 105/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+33=45 ; Thursday August 23rd, 2018 11:10:14 AM
Jozhur hides near the edge of the deck, almost disappearing in the thick fog. He tries to chose a spot close to the approaching ships and has sword in hand. The rogue is hoping the Bloodkin are lured aboard at least somewhat unsuspecting.
Stealth: 45
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 195/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) Thursday August 23rd, 2018 3:30:38 PM
Terser whispers to Rill, suggesting he play along as Jaff and say that the scurvy dogs got the Cap'n. They're trying to clean up now, and could use a couple of extra hands.
If this works and they draw up and lay a gangplank, Terser sets himself beneath the rail, ready to upend it and dump the slavers into the drink when they're crossing.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Thursday August 23rd, 2018 6:58:55 PM
Bralin's eyes flick to Rill, then to the ship.
The dwarf stays within the Soulseeker's reach.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday August 23rd, 2018 7:32:15 PM
Rill smiles at Terser as he casts Obscuring Mist in such a way that anyone firing the two ballistae would be right in the edge of the mist (would grant partial cover, but would would impose no penalty for anyone firing either ballista in the direction of the coming ships.) He hopes that it may go unnoticed in the mist.
Then he responds, "Ugh, yeah it's Jass. The scurvy dogs got the Cap'n an' we have some injured. We got the best of 'em though. We could use a little help over here. Any trouble on your end?"
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 d20+26=31 ; Thursday August 23rd, 2018 8:25:09 PM
Leafy hides aboard the Barracuda and is ready to attack anyone who sets foot on the deck.
Aex considers she's well within reach of the message spell that binds her with Zeoll so she decides to fly the nearest bloodkin vessel and perches upon the railing... she should get a decent view on the ship and it's crew... anything she sees she will relay to Zeoll. Perception 31
DM Kathy Thursday August 23rd, 2018 11:59:27 PM
Most of the group continue to hide.
Rill casts an Obscuring Mist before replying to the voice as "Jass." Which is a pity, because the name that had been called was "Jaff." Maybe they won't notice. [Roll a Bluff check, please.]
Meanwhile, Aexana flies over to the other ship. You can see that they, too, have two ballistae, both armed and ready to fire, with Bloodkin fighters standing by each one. More Bloodkin are ranged along the rail, weapons out. They are clearly suspicious, but not sure yet whether they face friend or foe.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) d8=7 ; Friday August 24th, 2018 12:04:25 AM
Zeoll finishes his spell.
His fey friend gained this time is a ... 7 ... a Shaitan Genie.
Zeoll places it on the ship just behind him, on the deck. He call sup to it in Terran, "Good Sirr, I rrespectfully enjoin you to cast yourr magic glitterrdust spell frreely on my enemies on the otherr ships when they come into sight and rrange, and to injurre only my enemies with any otherr attacks and magics."
He starts casting another spell.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) d8=6 ; Friday August 24th, 2018 12:13:25 AM
OOC: OOPS just missed the DM post. That was for yesterday. This is for today:
Zeoll again seeks the help of those who honor Mab and Eberyon. Last time he gave up a restoration spell for a summons. This time he gives up a Monster Summons IV. The call goes out ... and gains a 6 ... Nymph.
Zeoll casts mage armor on her. "Follow me please." Zeoll moves 40 ft on the waves and the nymph swims two 20 ft moves next to him swimming. They go toward the other enemy ships are. Maybe coming in sight?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Friday August 24th, 2018 4:35:08 AM
Tahni decides now is the time for a little more backup. She starts casting a Summon Monster VI spell.
Amith turns to look at her. Does the dwarf not have faith in his abilities?
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Friday August 24th, 2018 6:52:08 PM
Bralin waits.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 195/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) Friday August 24th, 2018 6:54:05 PM
Terser also waits to enact his gangplank plan, though he's considering warning them to watch out for some shoals and then throwing his hammer at the waterline.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 AC: 30/20/25 CMD: 22 Spell List Friday August 24th, 2018 8:16:01 PM
Fang crouches, frozen in anticipation. She can feel the battle rage starting to rise but suppresses it. Wait until it's time...
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 105/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Friday August 24th, 2018 10:12:17 PM
Jozhur stays hidden, peering into the mist. His face is void of excitement, but is calm and focused.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+2=9 ; Saturday August 25th, 2018 6:23:43 PM
(Bluff Check 9)
Rill waits, ready to Dimension Door Fang, Bralin, Terser Jozhur and Leafy over to where ever someone seems to be spell casting on one of the other ships.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Sunday August 26th, 2018 7:15:33 AM
Amith does his best to sigh quietly. Tahni is praying for more aid and leaving herself exposed. He takes a step to the side to stand before her, shielding her just in case.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Sunday August 26th, 2018 7:33:23 PM
Aex continues observing the crew and wonders of she should try to block the ballistae. Leafy keeps waiting;
DM Kathy d100=58 ; d8=2 ; d8=4 ; d8=6 ; Sunday August 26th, 2018 8:06:10 PM Zeoll summons a couple of friends. He leaves the genie on the ship, and brings the nymph with him as he strolls over the waves.
The rest of the group stay where they are, and wait.
"That ain't Jaff!" a voice calls from the other ship. "They've taken the Barracuda! Get them!"
Shouts follow, and a ballista bolt comes streaking toward the Barracuda! It hits! A part of the deck splinters, and wood goes flying.
Now you can see the shape of a second ship looming in the fog.
Here is the map. I may not have put everyone exactly where they are; feel free to re-position yourself. Also, Zeoll's friends need tokens on the map.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 10d6=31 ; d20+16=35 ; 5d8=28 ; Monday August 27th, 2018 7:22:26 AM "Ok, here we go..."
Tahni's summoning spell finishes and she produces a Lilend Azata. It starts an Inspire Courage song.
Tahni sends a Mind Fog spell at the bow of one of the ships, covering 8 of the approaching sailors. She has a fair idea that might help Zeoll.
She brings out her Quicken Rod to send a fireball to the ship to the north.
"This would be where you help, you know" Tahni says looking to Amith.
With a sigh Amith flies to the west and looks for the Captain of the nearest ship - or at least someone who looks like they're in charge. He sends a searing light spell at them.
--------------- Tahni Standard: Cast Mind Fog. Enemies to make a Will Save vs DC23. Fail=-10 Penalty to Wis checks and Will Saves. The fog is stationary. Affected creatures take the penalty as long as they remain in the fog and for 2d6 rounds thereafter. Free: Retrieve Lesser Quicken Rod from Glove of Storing Swift: Cast Fireball to the north. All 6 enemies to make a Ref Save vs DC21. Fail=31dmg. Pass=15dmg.
Lilend Azata Move: Inspire Courage. All allies that can hear gain +2 on Saving Throws against Charm and Fear effects, and a +2 comp bonus on Attack and Weapon damage rolls
Amith Move: Fly 90ft West Standard: Cast Searing Light. Hits Touch AC35! 28pts damage, no save.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Monday August 27th, 2018 3:04:56 PM "Well, I figured our ruse was only going to was only going to last for so long. Here we go!"
Rill pulls out a metamagic rod and then casts Dimension Door to move himself, Fang, Bralin, Terser, Jozhur and Leafy outside the fog on the nearest ship. (I believe Terser is back to medium size. If not, I may not be able to take Leafy.)
(Also, I placed the outline of the Obscuring Mist I previously cast on the Barracuda. The intent was to create it so that those operating the ballistae can do so within the edge of the mist, granting them concealment - (attacks have a 20% miss chance) without affecting their ability to attack out.)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 198/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) d20+25=28 ; d20+20=38 ; d20+15=30 ; d10+13=20 ; d10=3 ; d10=5 ; d10+13=15 ; d10+13=16 ; Monday August 27th, 2018 7:03:56 PM
Terser searches around for the crew manning the large weapons to dispatch them first and hopes that the crew he left behind starting firing on the other ship.
He attacks as able. "Too bad you're not much of an actor, Rill. Still we appreciate you for what talent you do have!"
Attacks (ignore followup attacks if I have to move to get to ballista crew) AC 28 for 28 damage AC 38 for 15 damage AC 30 for 16 damage
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 CMD: 22 Spell List d20+26=44 ; d20+26=46 ; d20+26=37 ; d20+21=40 ; d20+16=34 ; d10=8 ; d10=6 ; d10+16=24 ; d10+16=19 ; d10+16=26 ; d10+16=23 ; Monday August 27th, 2018 8:00:57 PM
Fang is surprised by her suddenly being right next to the enemy with no time to cast her usual pre-battle spells. On the bright side she still has plenty to work with at an instance notice. Clicking her heals together and flying into a rage she tears into the Bloodkin in front of her sending blood flying everywhere.
Free action to use boots of haste free action to rage full attack: Attack 1: 46 to hit, 24 damage Attack 2: 48 to hit (39 to confirm crit), 19 damage (33 on crit) Attack 3: 40 to hit, 26 damage Attack 4: 34 to hit, 23 damage
buff tracker:
Rage 3/21 Haste: 4/10
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) d20+23=38 ; d10+11=21 ; d6=5 ; d20+18=33 ; d10+11=19 ; d6=6 ; d20+13=14 ; Monday August 27th, 2018 8:16:15 PM
Bralin, who's taken this ride before, is not surprised by being suddenly right next to an enemy.
The dwarf's waraxe slams repeatedly into the nearest foe.
-- Full attack on Bloodkin. Atk 1 hits ac 38 for 26 hp damage Atk 2 hits ac 33 for 25 hp damage Atk 3 misses (Nat 1)
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 105/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+22=38 ; d20+22=27 ; d20+16=36 ; d20+16=20 ; d6+3=5 ; d6+3=5 ; d6+2=5 ; 6d6=17 ; 6d6=22 ; 6d6=15 ; 2d6=6 ; 2d6=8 ; 2d6=4 ; Monday August 27th, 2018 8:21:53 PM
His ambush didn't work out, but just as well, perhaps they could end this quickly. Jozhur repositions himself and lays into the nearest bloodkin.
-------------------------------------- Full hasted attack with Holy Shortsword, flanking
First attack hits AC 38: 5 damage, 17 sneak damage, 6 damage if evil (28) Haste attack hits AC 27: 5 damage, 22 sneak damage, 8 damage if evil (35) Second attack natural 20, crit not confirmed (20): 5 damage, 15 sneak damage, 4 damage if evil (24)
Boots of haste used: 1/10 I believe the dimension doored group is out of range for the inspire courage at the moment. Is it 50 feet?
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 d20+20=22 ; d20+20=37 ; d20+18=36 ; 3d6+10=16 ; 3d6+10=22 ; d8=4 ; d8=2 ; d2=1 ; d2=2 ; 2d8+10=22 ; 3d6-2=12 ; Monday August 27th, 2018 8:54:42 PM
Leafy trots forward and bashes into the first bloodkin he approaches. He only needs a 5ft step to be within range of the bloodkin in front of him.
Slam 1 hits AC22 - damage 16 + 4 sonic + Thorns ( -1 DEX to FORT SAVE DC19) Slam 2 hits AC37 - damage 22 + 2 sonic + Thorns ( -2 DEX to FORT SAVE DC19) Bite hits AC36 - damage 22
In her Eagle Shape Aex flutter up into the air - invisible with her ring - and begins casting. At the deck of the Northern most ship ( on the map ) a flaming sphere appears amid the 6 bloodkin and halfling that were standing there... Upon it's arrival the flaming sphere moves onver one of the bloodkin sailors.
Hopefully they are scared from water...
One of the Bloodkin gets overrun by the ball of pure energy. Flaming sphere - Reflex save DC20 to negate - damage 14 (accidentally added a -2 to the roll..)
The sphere crashes into one sailor, but more importantly the fireball could potentially damage the ballistae or other things.
DM Kathy d20+4=19 ; d20+4=24 ; d20+4=5 ; d20+4=8 ; d20+4=6 ; d20+4=7 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+12=22 ; d20+12=20 ; d20+12=19 ; d20+12=14 ; d20+17=33 ; d20+17=26 ; d20+12=30 ; d20=8 ; d100=88 ; d20+21=33 ; d20+21=28 ; d4=3 ; d6=2 ; d6=3 ; d6=4 ; d20+17=31 ; d20+17=37 ; d20+17=27 ; d20+17=34 ; d20+17=35 ; d20+17=20 ; d20+12=20 ; d20+12=27 ; d20+12=16 ; d20+12=19 ; d4=3 ; d4=2 ; d4=1 ; d4=3 ; d4=1 ; d4=3 ; d20+17=33 ; d20+17=24 ; d20+21=24 ; d20+21=41 ; d20+21=40 ; d8=4 ; d3=1 ; d3=1 ; d20=15 ; d100=61 ; d8=1 ; d8=1 ; d8=1 ; d8=8 ; d8=4 ; d8=2 ; Monday August 27th, 2018 10:43:26 PM Tahni finishes summoning a Lilend Azata, who starts an Inspire Courage song. Tahni herself casts a Mind Fog on the front of the oncoming vessel. [For the purpose of DM sanity, I will reveal that it is called the Hawk. ] She uses a Quicken rod to cast a Fireball, and prompts Amith to help a bit. Amith obliges with a Searing Light. You do notice that the Bloodkin and halflings who save agains the Fireball don't take any damage at all.
Tahni's Mind Fog also includes Aexana, who needs to make the save.
Rill uses a Dimension Door to move a team to the Hawk.
Terser targets the Bloodkin manning one of the ballistae. Your attacks hit and do damage. Between them, Bralin and Jozhur finish him off. [The other ballista is inside the Mind Fog, so going after its crew would be a bit more exciting than you may want.]
Fang unloads on her opponent, dropping him in a single round!
Aexana places a Flaming Sphere on the deck of the second ship. [For DM sanity, I will reveal that this one is called the Kestrel.] The Bloodkin makes his save. Meanwhile, Leafy pounds on one of the Bloodkin inside the Mind Fog.
Aboard the Barracuda, the ballista fires at the Hawk. It strikes a glancing blow, destroying part of the railing. You can hear the shouts as the crew struggles to re-load it.
On the Hawk, the forward ballista crew reload their weapon. Two of the Bloodkin move to engage Leafy, one of them probably provoking as he moves. They attack! Leafy is hit once for 18 damage, but that's with a piercing weapon so I'm not sure how much gets through.
Two more Bloodkin and the two halflings attack Leafy at range. He his hit twice, one a critical hit, for 6 and 2 damage, and those are also piercing attacks.
Two more Bloodkin attack Jozhur with full attacks. Jozhur is hit a total of 4 times, including 2 critical hits. He takes 49 damage.
A ballista on the Kestrel fires. It hits the Barracuda amidships, and does more damage.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 2d6+14=21 ; 2d6+14=21 ; 2d4=4 ; d4=2 ; 2d4=7 ; d4=2 ; d20+14=15 ; Tuesday August 28th, 2018 6:16:33 AM
Tahni will call out to the party the enemy who failed their Will Saves against the Mind Fog. Those should be easy pickings for some enchantment spells.
She now turns her attention to the vessel to the north. They seemed to be able to dodge her fireball quite easily. Then Tahni has a thought and it brings the hint of a mischievous grin. Those fire spells she hadn't been able to use? She now has an idea on how to finally use them.
She uses her Mystic Theurge Spell Synthesis ability to cast two spells at the same time. She chooses Wall of Fire, and uses her Arcane Bond to have ANOTHER Wall of Fire.
Tahni positions them across the Kestrel in parallel with the heat focused inwards! Basically she is creating a furnace. With the heat radiating towards the center, the heat from the wall on the left even hits those on the right, and vice versa.
For good measure, Tahni then uses her Quicken Rod to cast a Spectral Hand spell. That might come in handy later.
The lilend azaata keeps up its tune, but takes the opportunity to cast Invisibility on Tahni
Amith takes the battle head on. He flies towards one of the halflings and stabs at it with his spear. His heart just isn't in it (or he's doing it intentionally) as he misses quite badly.
---------------- Tahni Standard Action: Use Spell Synthesis and Arcane Bond to Cast 2 x Walls of Fire All those that pass through the left Wall of Fire - including those it already crosses - take 21pts damage. All those that pass through the right Wall of Fire - including those it already crosses - take 21pts damage.
The heat is facing inwards, so... All those within 10ft of the right wall (such as the ones on the left) take an additional 4pts All those between 10ft and 20ft of the right wall (such as the ones on the left) take an additional 2pts
All those within 10ft of the left wall (such as the ones on the right) take an additional 7pts All those between 10ft and 20ft of the left wall (such as the ones on the right) take an additional 2pts
All of this is No Save!
Not sure if the ship takes fire damage or not. Swift Action: Cast Spectral Hand
Lilend Azata Standard Action: Cast Invisibility on Tahni Free Action: Maintain Inspire Courage. All allies that can hear gain +2 on Saving Throws against Charm and Fear effects, and a +2 comp bonus on Attack and Weapon damage rolls
Amith Move Action: Fly up to 90ft to get to the halfling Standard Action: Attack with spear. Hit AC15: Nat1!
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d8=7 ; d8=4 ; d8=2 ; d8=3 ; d8=2 ; d8=3 ; d8=5 ; d8=2 ; Tuesday August 28th, 2018 11:52:39 AM
Rill laments the meaningless loss of life. "Look around ya scallywags! You're losing this battle one ship at a time. Be smart - surrender now and be spared. Keep fighting and by Gargul, you'll be sleeping with the fishes tonight!"
Rill he moves 5' to the left and casts Holy Smite on those inside and at the edge of the fog. Using his Rod of Quicken Spell, he casts a Quickened Cure Serious Wounds spell on Jozhur, healing the rogue for 28 points.
"Hey Jozhur, where's that weird little shadow guy of yours?"
------------------------- Precise Area of Effect was tough on this map, so I added that red circle to show how Holy Smite should be able to catch all those within that Mind Fog as well as the two halflings by Leafy and Amith. This will inflict 10 damage and 1 round of blindness to all evil creatures, 5 damage (no blindess) to all neutral creatures, and allows a DC 22 Will save for half damage and no blindness. (If the Mind Fog did its job, they should be at -10 on that Will save.)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 198/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) d20+24=38 ; d20+24=40 ; d20+19=34 ; d20+14=28 ; 3d10+30=44 ; d10+30=34 ; d10+30=39 ; d10+30=31 ; Tuesday August 28th, 2018 6:08:54 PM
Utilizing his reach, Terser works on reducing the number of swords stabbing Jozhur.
Rage on! (1st round) 1 round haste used HP 259/260 Rage AC 20
Attacks AC37 for 44 AC39 for 34 AC33 for 39 AC27 for 31
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+26=37 ; d20+26=33 ; d20+21=37 ; d20+16=33 ; d10+16=17 ; d10+16=18 ; d10+16=17 ; d10+16=18 ; Tuesday August 28th, 2018 6:58:02 PM
Rage far from sated Fang takes a 5 foot step to attack the Bloodkin just north of her (or if that one is down the one south of her, though that may take further movement).
Attack 1: 37 to hit, 17 damage Attack Haste: 33 to hit, 18 damage Attack 2: 37 to hit, 17 damage Attack 3: 33 to hit, 18 damage (If more movement is required Vital strike using first hit roll and first 3 damage rolls)
Buff Tracker:
Rage 4/21 Haste: 5/10
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) d20+22=24 ; d10+17=23 ; d6=3 ; d20+19=33 ; d10+17=26 ; d6=5 ; d20+14=16 ; d10+17=26 ; d6=5 ; Tuesday August 28th, 2018 7:09:15 PM
Bralin shifts to flank a Bloodkin with Leafy, and slams at the luckless soul.
-- 5' step . Flanking bonus. Full attack. Power Attack Atk 1 hits ac 24 for 26 hp damage Atk 2 hits ac 33 for 31 hp damage Atk 3 hits ac 16 for 31 hp damage.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP106/96 - AC25/21/21 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 d20+19=34 ; 3d6=15 ; d20+19=23 ; d20+19=34 ; d20+19=32 ; 3d6=4 ; 3d6=14 ; 3d6=9 ; d20+20=26 ; 3d6+10=14 ; d8=3 ; d2=2 ; d20+20=29 ; d20+20=35 ; d20+18=21 ; 3d6+10=19 ; 3d6+10=26 ; d8=5 ; d100=27 ; d8=3 ; d2=1 ; d2=1 ; 2d8+10=18 ; Tuesday August 28th, 2018 9:00:43 PM
(I don't think Aex needs to save from the mind fog as it stated in her post that she flutters up. I did forget to change the map though... mea culpa... ) (Leafy has DR /slashing)
Aex manouvres (move action) the fireball so thTat it engulfs the Ballista. This hopefully will prevent them from firing it. Then, once again she calls upon the forces of nature and brings down a couple of lightning bolts (standard action). First targets are those using the ballistas.
Bolt 1 - Spell resistance 34 - damage 15 - Reflex save 24 for half Bolt 2 - Spell resistance 23 - damage 4 - Reflex save 24 for half Bolt 3 - Spell resistance 34 - damage 14 - Reflex save 24 for half Bolt 4 - Spell resistance 32 - damage 9 - Reflex save 24 for half
Leafy suddenly finds himself in the mid of the action... The first one that hits (18-5HP damage) also provoked an AoO so Leafy takes advantage of it and slams into the sailor. Slam hits AC26 - damage 14 + 3 sonic damage + thorns -2 DEX Fort save DC19. Next he becomes target practice for some archers... (6-5 and 2-5 for 1HP)
He makes a 5ft step back hoping to take advantage again if the blue bloodkin steps closer. But he also immediately makes a swing at that same one.
Slam 1 hits AC29 - damage 19 + 5 sonic + Thorns ( -1 DEX to FORT SAVE DC19) Slam 2 hits AC35 - damage 26 + 3 sonic + Thorns ( -1 DEX to FORT SAVE DC19) Bite hits AC216 - damage 18
From above Aex keeps an eye on her friend... she does not want to loose him again... That armor has been a good choice...
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 96/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+24=42 ; d20+24=35 ; d20+17=31 ; d20+24=28 ; d6+5=6 ; d6+5=7 ; d6+4=10 ; d6+3=8 ; 6d6=21 ; 6d6=28 ; 6d6=24 ; 6d6=22 ; 2d6=9 ; 2d6=10 ; 2d6=8 ; d4+4=7 ; Tuesday August 28th, 2018 9:04:30 PM
Jozhur grunts as he is pierced like a pincushion. The rogue is mended almost as quickly as he is wounded. His shadow companion arrives to fight along with him and Jozhur strikes back at his foes with both weapons in a blur of steel.
------------------------------------- Full hasted two weapon attack (forgot -2 penalty in rolls, included flanking)
First attack hits AC40: 6 damage, 21 sneak damage, 9 damage if evil (36) Haste attack hits AC 33: 7 damage, 28 sneak damage, 10 damage if evil (45) Off hand attack hits AC 26: 7 damage, 24 sneak damage (31) Second main attack hits AC 29: 10 damage, 22 sneak damage, 8 damage if evil (40)
Active effects: Inspire Courage
Boots of haste used: 2/10
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) d4=2 ; Wednesday August 29th, 2018 12:08:44 AM
Zeoll suggests a useful course of action for the water-lady. The Nymph swims forward 40 ft (2 move actions) and turns on her Blinding Beauty (Su - free action). This ability affects all humanoids within 30 feet of a nymph. Those who look directly at a nymph must succeed on a DC 21 Fortitude save or be blinded permanently. A nymph can suppress or resume this ability as a free action.
Zeoll points to the genie and then to the enemies in the mind fog. The genie casts Glitterdust on the two nearest it at the prow of the ship. Will DC14. Maybe they were affected by the Mind Fog and will be extra susceptible to the glitterdust.
Zeoll doffs his shield (move action). The old liontaur casts his DC27 Confusion spell (standard action) on the ship to his right, the one farthest away. He centers it on any enemies he can see, or on the center of the boat anyway.
Current Magic Status: Currently on Zeoll: Water Breathe, Extended Darkvision, Extended Protection from Arrows, Extended Nondetection, Mage Armor, Taur's Try (+1 perception), Magic Circle, Elf Vision, Water Walk.
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command x4 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat - SFF4, restoration - SFF4, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally Sorc Spells: 1: 4 of 8 used (mage armor x4) 2: 0 of 8 used 3: 0 of 7 used 4: 0 of 4 used Other resources: Cape: 0 of 1 used Horns: 2 of 4 used
DM Kathy d20-6=1 ; d20-6=-4 ; d20-6=-2 ; d20-6=5 ; d20-3=-2 ; d20+4=11 ; d20+7=26 ; d20+12=32 ; d20+12=32 ; d20+12=14 ; d20+12=24 ; d20+19=39 ; d20+19=31 ; d100=20 ; d20+14=26 ; d100=34 ; d20+9=22 ; d100=81 ; d3=1 ; d20+19=37 ; d20+19=32 ; d3=3 ; d3=1 ; d20=9 ; Wednesday August 29th, 2018 12:28:15 AM Tahni casts two Walls of Fire and people on the Kestrel begin to take damage. She calls up a Spectral Hand while her Lilend casts Invisibility on her. Amith takes a stab at one of the halflings, but misses.
Rill heals Jozhur and casts a Holy Smite on the crew of the Hawk. One of the halflings makes his save; the others fail and are blind for a round.
Terser takes out another Bloodkin.
Fang attacks and wounds a Bloodkin; Bralin finishes it off.
Aexana begins flinging lightning bolts at the Bloodkin manning the forward ballista of the Hawk. The Bloodkin are ordinary half-orcs and do not have Spell Resistance. They do seem to have Evasion, however. Only one of the four bolts ends up doing damage. Leafy, meanwhile, manages to finish off the blue Bloodkin.
Jozhur attacks the Bloodkin and does damage.
On the Barracuda, the ballista crew is reloading.
On the Hawk, two of the blinded Bloodkin stumble out of the Mind Fog, one provoking from Leafy, the other provoking from Amith. [He is holding a reach weapon, right?] Unable to see any foes, they stay where they are for now.
The two Bloodkin at the ballista finish loading it, but do not fire; they are both blind.
The halflings move up to engage Amith. One of them provokes, if he didn't take the earlier opportunity attack. Or if he has combat reflexes. The blind halfling attacks three times, missing twice due to concealment. The third attack hits AC 22 for 2 damage plus 1 bleed. The other halfling attacks once, hitting for 5 damage plus 1 bleed.
On the Kestrel, the call goes out to abandon ship. Bloodkin and halflings dive over the side into the water. You do not see any slaves jump in. Maybe there aren't any, or maybe they're chained up.
With nobody at her helm, the Kestrel continues to drift in the same direction it had been heading, which could be bad news for the Barracuda. The Hawk drifts a bit, too; nobody is steering it now, either.
The third ship, the Condor, moves closer. Its forward ballista fires at the Barracuda, but it has a bad angle and the shot misses.
DM Kathy d20-6=5 ; d20-6=4 ; d20+7=16 ; d20+7=13 ; d20=2 ; d20=11 ; d20=17 ; d20=16 ; d100=3 ; d100=13 ; d100=77 ; d100=13 ; Wednesday August 29th, 2018 12:37:45 AM Zeoll's genie Glitterdusts the two in front, who are now extra-super blind. And shiny. The nymph--oy. Okay, I'm going to say that two Bloodkin looked directly at her because there's only so far I'm going to roll this back. They failed their save, so two of them are blinded. Also, the nymph needs to look sharp or the ship will hit her.
Zeoll casts Confusion, and makes the DM look up the effects. Four Bloodkin are affected; three act normally, which explains that ballista shot. The fourth attacks one of his mates.
Zeoll probably also needs to be aware of the approaching ships; they are not being steered.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d20+16=23 ; d20+11=15 ; d20+6=17 ; d8+6=12 ; d8+6=12 ; d8+6=8 ; d6=6 ; d6=6 ; d6=2 ; Wednesday August 29th, 2018 8:51:58 AM
Tahni nods in satisfaction as the crew of the Kestrel jump overboard. That's one ship out of action. There might be a moral dilemma later as to whether to rescue them from the water, but that's something to think about later.
She sends a Stinking Cloud spell over the bow of the Condor
Amith's wounds heal as quickly as they developed thanks to his Fast Healing. He responds with a full attack with his spear.
The Azata keeps singing it's merry tune. Something about a sailor that went to sea sea sea.
-----------------------------------
Tahni Standard Action: Stinking Cloud at the bow of the Condor. Fort Save vs DC21 or be Nauseated. Also acts as a Fog Cloud so they can't see out.
Azata Free Action: Maintain Inspire Courage. All allies that can hear gain +2 on Saving Throws against Charm and Fear effects, and a +2 comp bonus on Attack and Weapon damage rolls
Amith Full Attack. Hit AC23 for 12pts + 6pts fire Hit AC15 for 12pts + 6pts fire Hit AC17 for 8pts + 2pts fire
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+27=40 Wednesday August 29th, 2018 4:54:36 PM
Rill shouts across the waves. "We have taken two ships in in minutes! Continued fighting is folly and seals your fate! Surrender now!"
And in a lower voice, "Hey Tahni - nice work on that fire thing."
Rill begins casting Summon Monster IV, hoping to call a creature that can help end further destruction and death. (He casts defensively, DC 23, rolled a 40)
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+26=31 ; d20+26=29 ; d20+21=40 ; d20+16=19 ; d10+16=17 ; d10+16=17 ; d10+16=22 ; d10+16=18 ; Wednesday August 29th, 2018 6:49:42 PM
Rill might be all ready to stop the death and destruction but Fang is just getting started. Unless they all drop their weapons and beg for mercy she sees no reason to hold back against those that have caused so much suffering. She takes another 5 foot step and tears into the next target.
Attack 1: 31 to hit, 17 damage Haste Attack: 29 to hit, 17 damage Attack 2: 40 to hit, 22 damage Attack 3: 19 to hit, 18 damage
Buff Tracker:
Rage 5/21 Haste: 6/10
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Wednesday August 29th, 2018 7:28:54 PM
Bralin looks up at the crew abandoning the Kestrel. The crew, but not the cargo. The dwarf isn't a sailor, but he's seen enough large objects run into other large objects to understand the Kestrel's movement toward the Barracuda will end abruptly. And poorly the crew of each
Activating his winged boots, Bralin launches himself in the direction of the Kestrel..
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 d20+20=36 ; 3d6+10=21 ; d8=2 ; d2=1 ; d20+20=34 ; d20+20=26 ; d20+18=20 ; 3d6+10=25 ; 3d6+10=22 ; 2d8+10=18 ; d8=7 ; d8=6 ; d2-1=1 ; d2-1=0 ; Wednesday August 29th, 2018 8:12:41 PM
Aex has just lost her overview of the battle and where to help best... sailors jumping overboard, clouds and fog everywhere... walls of fire... and a myriad of creatures all around... So Aex decides to get closer to Leafy who seems to be doing rather ok.
Leafy takes opportunity of his 10ft reach and makes an AoO vs one of the blinded Bloodkin that approaches him... Slam hits AC36 - damage 21 + 2 sonic + thorns (-1 DEX FORT SAVE DC19 to negate)
Then on his turn Leafy makes a full attack again on the nearest Bloodkin sailor... Slam 1 hits AC34 - damage 25 + 7Sonic + thorns (-2DEX FORT SAVE DC19 to negate) Slam 2 hits AC26 - damage 22 + 6Sonic + thorns (-1DEX FORT SAVE DC19 to negate) Bite hits AC20 - damage 18
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 198/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 29/34, channel 4/5) Wednesday August 29th, 2018 8:27:29 PM
Knowing Bralin will need some help freeing slaves and seeing as the others have this ship well in hand, Terser steps up into the air towards the ship on fire to go start breaking chains. (Rage off momentarily) 1/2 rds fatigue
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 96/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+22=32 ; d20+22=25 ; d20+22=30 ; d20+21=34 ; d6+5=7 ; d6+5=7 ; d6+4=10 ; d4+3=5 ; 6d6=21 ; 6d6=22 ; 6d6=22 ; 6d6=25 ; 2d6=8 ; 2d6=5 ; 2d6=5 ; d20+12=32 ; d6=2 ; Wednesday August 29th, 2018 9:29:50 PM
With one foe remaining nearby, Jozhur has his shadow move into position and tries to take another orc out of the fight. His shadow also drains some of the orc's strength.
As he works on one enemy at a time, he Marvel's a bit at his friends' ability to deal with multiple enemies at a time. ----------------------- Full hasted two weapon attack
First attack hits AC 32: 7 damage, 21 sneak, 8 holy (36) Haste attack hits AC25: 7 damage, 22 sneak, 5 holy (34) Second main hits AC 30: 10 damage, 22 sneak, 5 holy (37) Off hand hits AC 34: 5 damage, 25 sneak (30)
Shadows touch vs AC 32 deals 2 strength damage. Each successful sneak attack also deals 2 strength damage.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Wednesday August 29th, 2018 11:13:36 PM
Zeoll (and Drini) and the nymph take double moves to escape the path of the oncoming ships.
The genie follows orders and glitterdusts the ship on the far right.
Current Magic Status: Currently on Zeoll: Water Breathe, Extended Darkvision, Extended Protection from Arrows, Extended Nondetection, Mage Armor, Taur's Try (+1 perception), Magic Circle, Elf Vision, Water Walk.
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command x4 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat - SFF4, restoration - SFF4, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally Sorc Spells: 1: 4 of 8 used (mage armor x4) 2: 0 of 8 used 3: 0 of 7 used 4: 0 of 4 used Other resources: Cape: 0 of 1 used Horns: 2 of 4 used
DM Kathy d20+7=21 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+7=17 ; d20+7=26 ; d20+7=22 ; d20+7=12 ; d20+7=16 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+9=24 ; d20+4=17 ; d20+4=8 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+4=6 ; d20+21=25 ; d20+21=26 ; d20+21=34 ; d20+16=35 ; d20+16=21 ; d20+11=13 ; d20+11=21 ; 9d6=34 ; 9d6=31 ; 9d6=42 ; d3=2 ; d3=3 ; d3=3 ; d100=64 ; d20=2 ; d100=62 ; d100=50 ; d100=37 ; d100=60 ; Thursday August 30th, 2018 12:38:09 AM Tahni casts a Stinking Cloud. Some of the Bloodkin become nauseated. The lilend continues to Inspire Courage. Amith attacks 3 times, but his opponents are nimble and none of the blows land.
Rill calls on the crew to surrender, and begins casting a summoning spell.
Fang unloads on an already-wounded Bloodkin, dispatching him.
Bralin, seeing an imminent collision, takes to the air and heads for the Kestrel.
Aexana moves closer to Leafy, who is busily wounding a Bloodkin.
Terser prepares to follow Bralin.
Jozhur and his shadow finish off another Bloodkin.
Zeoll and the nymph scramble out of the way of the oncoming ship. The genie casts another Glitterdust. Two of the Bloodkin fail the save and are blind.
Aboard the Barracuda, the ballista fires again. Due to the motion of the Hawk, the bolt sails wide. The crew begin to reload.
The Hawk continues to drift. Amith is now inside the Mind Fog. Which doesn't matter at all, because the Bloodkin don't have any casters. :) The two blinded Bloodkin at the forward ballista do nothing for now.
The Bloodkin facing Leafy is back in the Mind Fog and clearly doesn't care for it. He drops his weapons and surrenders.
The halflings 5-foot step, and flank Amith. They attack! Amith is hit 3 times for a total of 118 damage.
The sailors from the Kestrel try to swim to safety. The blind ones are having trouble with this. Aboard the Kestrel, the Walls of Fire are magical fire and aren't setting anything alight. [That's my best interpretation of the spell description.] Not so the Flaming Sphere. It does set things on fire, and the part of the forward deck is now alight. The ship, now on fire, continues to drift.
The Condor heels over hard, trying to avoid the flaming Kestrel. Aboard, the crew that still have their wits about them scramble to get out of the Stinking Cloud. Two of the Confused crew stay where they are and babble. One attacks himself. The remaining one would attack his buddy, except that's a standard action and he is nauseated, so he just kind of stands there.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+26=37 ; d20+26=28 ; d20+21=27 ; d20+16=20 ; d10+16=24 ; d10+16=24 ; d10+16=18 ; d10+16=18 ; Thursday August 30th, 2018 8:03:55 AM
Fang finds it incredibly convenient how the enemy just keeps walking in front of her. It makes it very easy to continue to tear them apart.
Attack 1: 37 to hit, 24 damage Haste attack: 28 to hit, 24 damage Attack 2: 27 to hit, 18 damage Attack 3: 24 to hit, 18 damage
Buff Tracker:
Rage 6/21 Haste: 7/10
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 28/34, channel 4/5) d20+17=18 ; Thursday August 30th, 2018 12:05:41 PM
Terser walks up over the wall of fire and looks down onto the deck of the Kestrel. If there are no captives on the deck, he will descend into the hold to see if there are any people to free down there.
nat 1 perception! fatigued round 2/2
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday August 30th, 2018 12:21:29 PM
(As near as I can figure from the last DM post, we are on the Hawk and we came from the Barracuda. Not really sure why the crew from the Barracuda are firing at the Hawk though.)
Rill finishes his summons and a Medium Water Elemental arrives at the bow of the ship we are on (The Hawk?), and Rill shouts (using Tongues) for it to help push the Hawk starboard. Then he will move quickly to the wheel of the Hawk and pulls the wheel hard to starboard, hoping to avoid a hit on the Barracuda.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Thursday August 30th, 2018 7:34:01 PM
The winged boots simply aren't carrying Bralin fast enough. The dwarf makes a quick evaluation, grits his teeth, and moves straight through the Wall of Fire barring his way.
Landing at the steering wheel, Bralin grabs hold, and flings the wheel to his left (ie Port)
-- Double move through Wall of Fire to steering wheel. He moved straight line from deck to deck, so pretty sure he's out of grabbing range of the sailors in the water.
Used Hero Point to take extra action to try and steer hard to port.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Thursday August 30th, 2018 7:45:29 PM
With Amith now gone, Tahni starts calling more aid with a Summon Monster VI spell
Leafy sees his direct opponent lays down his weapons. To his right Amith nears destruction so Leafy decides he might be needed there... He moves behind Fang and attacks (move + single attack that is)
Slam 1 hits AC39 - damage 20 + 3 sonic + Thorns (-1 Dex - Fort save DC19 to negate)
Aex attempts to distract the nimble sailors and lands another volley of lightning bolts aimed at the halfings that are attakcing Amith...
Bolt 1 - damage 15 - Ref save 23 for half Bolt 2 - damage 5 - Ref save 23 for half
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 96/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+23=34 ; d20+33=47 ; Thursday August 30th, 2018 10:25:25 PM
Jozhur was about to fly over the the burning ship to free any captives, but two already went that way. For now, he moves to the rail of the ship he is in and looks at the Bloodkin in the water, drawing his bow. If they don't voice any intent to surrender and are swimming toward them, he will fire on them next.
He also does his best to conceal himself in the shadows (hide in plain sight)
--------------- Perception: 33 Stealth:47
DM Kathy d4=3 ; d4=3 ; d6=3 ; d6=1 ; d4=2 ; d4=1 ; d20+17=20 ; d20+17=30 ; d20+21=38 ; d20+21=41 ; d20+21=27 ; d20+16=29 ; d20+16=24 ; d20+11=14 ; d20+11=27 ; d20+23=40 ; 9d6=28 ; 9d6=30 ; 9d6=38 ; d3=1 ; d3=3 ; d3=1 ; d20=18 ; d100=95 ; d8=5 ; d8=3 ; d8=8 ; d100=58 ; d100=67 ; d100=74 ; d100=9 ; Friday August 31st, 2018 12:44:09 AM Fang attacks the halfling in front of her. Three of her attacks hit, but the halfling is still standing.
Terser walks into Tahni's "furnace". Unless you have some kind of fire resistance, you take 6 points of damage. You do not see any slaves on deck. You move below, and see several terrified slaves in manacles. They look at you in confusion.
Rill and his water elemental concentrate on moving the Hawk to starboard.
[There are two reasons the ballista crew on the Barracuda is targeting the Hawk. First, that is what they were told to do, and slaves generally aren't rewarded for showing initiative. Second, there is still fog and other effects that make visibility difficult. They don't know how close the Hawk is to being taken.]
Bralin moves through the Wall of Fire to get to the helm. He takes a total of 22 fire damage. He turns the Kestrel hard to port.
Amith has blipped back to wherever he came from, so Tahni starts summoning more aid.
Leafy hits the halfling and does more damage. Aexana throws more lightning bolts, hitting once.
Jozhur moves to cover the swimming Bloodkin. None of them are holding weapons in their hands; you cannot tell whether they still have weapons on them. Right now, they seem to be concentrating on swimming.
Aboard the Barracuda, the ballista is being reloaded.
Aboard the Hawk, Rill and his elemental have redirected the ship, and it looks as if it will probably miss the Barracuda.
The halflings move to flank Fang. One of them gets a full attack; the other had to move and so only gets a single attack. Fang is hit 3 times for a total of 104 damage, bleed 3.
Onboard the Kestrel, the fire spreads. Bralin steers the ship to port in a desperate attempt to avoid a collision. The ship continues to drift, and Zeoll's nymph is going to get run over if she doesn't move.
Bralin may have averted a collision between the Kestrel and the Barracuda, but now the worry is the Condor, which doesn't have a lot of room to stop or change course. It, too, tries to turn to port as the crew scrambles to stay out of the way of the Stinking Cloud.
One of the forward Bloodkin manages to fire the ballista, aiming for the Barracuda. It scores a direct hit, opening up a hole in the side of the ship. One of the Confused crew attacks himself; the others are still nauseated and can't take a standard action.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 d20+20=24 ; d20+20=31 ; d20+18=22 ; d20+20=23 ; 3d6+10=23 ; 3d6+10=21 ; d8=3 ; d8=5 ; d2=2 ; d2=2 ; 2d8+10=17 ; Friday August 31st, 2018 3:33:39 AM
Aex sees how the Halflings slice deep into Fang... With only Leafy trying to help him Aex is not sure how long she'll be able to continue like this... It goes without saying that Aexana is eager to learn more about this Beastfolk Barbarian! After all it would be good to know if they are considered humanoids or animals... just like her study about the Taur race...
Having aimed lightning bolts directly at some opponents Aex lost her invisibility... So in eagle shap she flutter down close enough to Fang to touch her - a bit protected she hopes from both Leafy and Fang... unlike Fang, she could not withstand such terrible attacks.
Immediately she casts Heal (CL13) on Fang healing her for 130HP also ended all negative effects that were weakening her more. Not sure if it also ends Bleed as that is not in the spell description.
Zeoll is the only one who can understand her but still she tries to call for help : "Get your behinds over here!! These Halflings are berserk!!!"
Leafy does the best he can and makes a full attack at the Halfling that attacks Fang in the back.
Slam 1 hits AC24 - Damage 23HP + 3HP sonic + thorns (-2DEX DC19 Fort save to negate) Slam 2 hits AC31 - Damage 21HP + 5HP sonic + thorns (-2DEX DC19 Fort save to negate) Bite hits AC22 (never mind the accidental extra d20+20) - damage 17HP
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d20+17=26 ; d4+6=10 ; d20+23=28 ; Friday August 31st, 2018 7:50:12 AM "Cease fire! Cease fire!" Tahni calls to the ex-slaves "Take the helm and keep 'er straight and slow"
Tahni's spell finishes and she brings forth a Celestial Octopus. Just for fun she then casts an Animal Growth spell on it. It heads off to attack her opponents as best it can.
Huge Celestial Octopus Move: Swim towards enemies Standard: Attack. 30ft reach. Hits AC26 for 10pts damage. If hit, CMB 28 for grapple.
Azata Keep playing a merry tune
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 28/34, channel 4/5) d20+23=34 ; Friday August 31st, 2018 2:30:25 PM "Ware not! I am here to free you from your bonds. Your former captors have fled the ship, and it is yours for the taking!
Not wanting to waste any time, Terser rages once again, grabbing a chain in both hands and pulling it apart in a show of remarkable strength.
strength surge - once per rage, add level to str check Strength Check of 34 to break the chains
to whoever he freed - "Do you know where the key is kept for the rest? If it's up on deck, you need to wait until the magical fire that scared off the sailors dies down."
If there's no key to be found, Terser will go about bashing through chains with his adamantine cestus.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 96/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+24=34 ; d6+4=10 ; 6d6=26 ; 2d6=7 ; Friday August 31st, 2018 9:01:40 PM
Jozhur let's the swimming Bloodkin go for now. Instead, he moves to flank one of the halflings attacking Fang. His shadows moves to flank the other, aiding Fang in attacking both.
---------------- Attack hits AC 33: 10 damage, 26 sneak damage, 7 damage if evil. 2 strength damage if sneak attack successful
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Friday August 31st, 2018 11:57:29 PM
Zeoll directs the nymph to move out of the path of the oncoming ship, and she does.
Zeoll takes the same advice for himself and Drini. He takes a 40 ft move action to get out of the way.
Then he looks for an enemy to attack. He sees none. He hears combat in that cloud over there, but cannot see a target. He decides to don his shield, which he had loosed prior to casting his Confusion.
He directs the genie to attack any enemies who attempt to board. The feyish outsider readies an action to do so.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 165/176) Saturday September 1st, 2018 9:40:33 AM
Bralin sets his teeth against the pain of the fire. Fortunately, between his two rings (Minor Fire Resistance and Regneration), a good chunk of the damage is avoided/healed.
Having avoided the Barracuda, the dwarf leaves the helm, and flies down into the hold - having first looked for the key on the railing (the same location as was held on the Barracuda).
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+26=33 ; d20+26=31 ; d20+21=29 ; d20+16=33 ; d10+16=17 ; d10+16=24 ; d10+16=19 ; d10+16=26 ; Sunday September 2nd, 2018 8:25:45 AM
Fang grimaces and almost falls out of her rage to heal herself. Then one of her new allies beats her to it. Gods it's nice to have allies, she's been fighting alone for to long. She tears into the weaker of the two halflings (whichever one I hit last round I believe?)
Attack 1: 33 to hit, 17 damage Haste Attack: 31 to hit, 24 damage Attack 2: 29 to hit, 19 damage Attack 3: 33 to hit, 26 damage
Buff Tracker:
Rage 6/21 Haste: 7/10
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+24=26 ; Sunday September 2nd, 2018 9:15:49 PM
Once it seems that the Hawk will miss the Barracuda, Rill directs the Water Elemental to move to the burning ship and begin putting out the fire as best he can. (Not sure if he can climb aboard and perhaps use his Drench ability to get that fire under control.)
(Why is the Mind Fog not moving with the Hawk? The fire spells seem to be moving with that ship.)
Rill, now enveloped in fog (Will save 26), continues steering the Hawk to avoid the Barracuda and will shout, "To the Bloodkin crew in the water, will you surrender and be brought aboard, or do we leave you to a watery fate?"
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Sunday September 2nd, 2018 10:16:44 PM
Zeoll privately resolves that if the slavers avoid a watery fate, it will be because they have earned a quick and merciful death.
DM Kathy d20+7=16 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+7=25 ; d20+7=26 ; d20+7=21 ; d100=43 ; d100=93 ; d100=70 ; d100=17 ; Sunday September 2nd, 2018 11:03:11 PM Aexana, still in eagle shape, flies down to heal Fang.
Tahni summons a Celestial Octopus and casts Animal Growth on it. She calls to the former slaves to cease fire and take the helm.
Terser frees one of the slaves and asks where the keys are kept. Eyes still wide with shock, the man stammers that he doesn't know.
Jozhur and Leafy finish off the wounded halfling.
Zeoll and his nymph scramble out of the way. Zeoll readies his shield.
Bralin looks for keys. They are not in the exact same place as the Barracuda, but they are also near the helm and it doesn't take long to find them. Keys in hand, he heads below, and finds Terser.
Fang, relieved to be healed, turns to attack the wounded halfling, only to find that Jozhur and Leafy got to him first. But, with Jozhur's shadow to flank, she can easily attack the other halfling instead, which she does with gusto.
Rill re-tasks his water elemental to put out the fire aboard the Kestrel. He shouts for the Bloodkin in the water to surrender. [The fogs are not moving because they are not connected to the ships. As I understand it, they were cast at a point in space and do not move. The walls--well, I guess those are more ambivalent; most walls need to be anchored to something but I guess walls of fire don't. So maybe they shouldn't have moved; I don't know. I picture them as anchored to the ship, though. A flaming sphere definitely interacts with the ground, so it moves with the ship. And of course the larger circle is regular fire, which is spreading over the ship. Look, I'm doing the best I can.]
Aboard the Barracuda, the former slaves leave the ballista and scramble to the helm.
Aboard the Hawk, the wounded halfling surrenders. The two blind Bloodkin up in the bow have not officially surrendered yet, but they haven't done much of anything else, either. The Hawk appears to have been taken.
Three of the Bloodkin in the water swim up to the Hawk and surrender. The blind one swims the wrong way, getting close to the octopus. The other two Bloodkin, and the halfling on this side, are still swimming.
On the Kestrel, the fire spreads. The ship continues to drift.
The Condor also drifts. It doesn't quite collide with the Kestrel, but it appears to be only a matter of time. Several of the Bloodkin in the water reach the Condor and begin climbing. The Bloodkin and halfling in the stern now have nowhere to go to escape the Stinking Cloud.
The one non-Confused non-nauseated Bloodkin in the bow of the Condor is reloading the ballista. The nauseated one struggles back to try to drop a ladder over the side for the ones in the water. The Confused on attacks himself again. Two that are Confused and nauseated do nothing. The other acts normally, and has the presence of mind to drop his weapons.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Monday September 3rd, 2018 6:30:00 PM
With the surrender of the last enemy in front of her Fang drops out of her rage. Tiredly she looks up and down at the Halfling that just moments ago she was trying to kill. "Sit down and don't do anything stupid. We'll figure out what to do with you after the battle and I'll heal your wounds. Pick up a weapon again however and you can expect no more mercy."
Buff Tracker:
Fatigued 1/12
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 165/176) Monday September 3rd, 2018 7:20:30 PM
Bralin grabs the keys and dives into the hold, more than happy to get out of the oven of the two fire walls.
IIt takes but one look at the condition of the slaves for the stonewarden to realize that asking them to brave two walls of fire and then a jump into the sea will still end poorly.
Bralin tosses the key to the nearest man, and scurries back up to the deck.
"DROP THE FIREWALLS!!!" he bellows.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 96/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+17=31 ; d8+3=8 ; Monday September 3rd, 2018 9:25:50 PM
With no targets anywhere nearby, Jozhur moves to the stern and resorts to his bow, firing at an enemy on the Condor, preferably the one loading the ballista.
----------------------------- Ranged attack hits AC 31 with range penalty: 8 damage
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Monday September 3rd, 2018 9:40:56 PM
Rill ties off wheel of the ship he's been steering, and then moves to cut the lines on a sail to slow her down. The water elemental tries to put out the fire.
DM Kathy Monday September 3rd, 2018 10:52:02 PM Fang drops out of rage and orders her halfling prisoner to sit down and not do anything stupid. He obliges.
Bralin tosses the keys to one of the slaves and calls for the Walls of Fire to be dismissed.
Jozhur fires on one of the Condor's ballista crew, and scores a hit.
Rill does what he can to further avoid a collision. His water elemental has reached the Kestrel, and started putting out the fire.
The remaining foes in the water near the Hawk swim up and surrender, although the blind one is still blundering about. They wait patiently for a rope or ladder to be lowered. The Hawk herself has all but stopped.
The Kestrel is still drifting a little, but not much. The water elemental has succeeded in putting out much of the fire.
The Condor turns hard to port. Her crew seem more interested in helping their swimming companions onboard than in making trouble for you guys.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Monday September 3rd, 2018 10:55:44 PM
Zeoll and friends look for enemies and innocents, to attack the former and rescue the latter.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Tuesday September 4th, 2018 6:54:09 AM
Finally understanding what is being asked, Tahni drops the starboard firewall. "Sorry 'bout that!"
The port one will be down soon as well.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 28/34, channel 4/5) Tuesday September 4th, 2018 4:33:39 PM
Terser goes about facilitating the freeing of the slaves while Bralin manages the fires up top. He asks if any of them have any sailing experience, since something will have to be done with these boats. Hopefully they can turn them around and deliver the slavers to the nearest authority.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 165/176) Tuesday September 4th, 2018 6:12:44 PM
Bralin nods at Tahni, and trots back down into the hold.
Helping free a prisoner, he calls over to Terser.
"The fires should be out above, but you and I must ascend first. We are quite close to the last enemy ship."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday September 4th, 2018 6:22:21 PM
Fang looks for a rope or ladder to drop to the swimming pirates. As they come up she takes their weapons, searching them if needed. I'll handle the prisoners, you guys clear out the last ship." she says to whoever is still nearby.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Tuesday September 4th, 2018 6:24:03 PM
Aex is curious what the town heard or saw of this battle... they must have heard something no? She informs Zeoll of her quick flight into town.
Leafy stands guard over any prisoners they took.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Tuesday September 4th, 2018 9:51:01 PM
Rill moves out of the mind fog and looks over the situation. He calls out to the Condor. "Hail Condor! Stop your vessel and surrender, our we will be forced to set fire to your ship as well."
Then he will cast Water Walk on himself, Fang, Jozhur, Leafy and Aexana.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Tuesday September 4th, 2018 11:55:28 PM
Zeoll begins a quick conversation with his friends as the heroes begin the task of rescuing prisoners, securing them on the most seaworthy ship, and rounding up any prisoners who have surrendered.
"My frriends, I prropose that any of these villains who we take alive be questioned underr two magical trruth spells. Any who arre shown to be slaverrs, that is, those who bought and sold people, will be given quick deaths. I may find morre merrcy for those who merrely worrked with and serrved slaverrs, but perrsonally I would execute them as well. Anyway no trrue slaverrs get to live. Does anyone disagrree with that?"
DM Kathy Wednesday September 5th, 2018 12:02:29 AM Zeoll and his crew look for enemies and innocents. There is a blind Bloodkin swimming near the nymph, and two blind Bloodkin in the bow of the Hawk, probably within reach of the genie's spells.
Tahni apologizes and drops her walls of fire. Yep, both of them. Dismissing a spell is a standard action, but your DM is of the opinion that that is a ripoff, so I generally let people dismiss as many spells as they want.
Terser and Bralin free the slaves on the Kestrel, asking if they have any sailing experience. Most of them do.
Fang finds a rope ladder to lower to the swimming slavers. As they come aboard, they surrender their weapons. Some of them look reluctant, but they all do it.
Aex is wondering what they'll have made of the battle on Market Island, which is really more of an outpost than a town. The fog will have muffled the sounds of battle somewhat, but for now it's impossible to know what they may be doing in response.
Rill calls to the Condor to stop, and casts a Water Walk.
I'm not going to use the map unless people insist, but the Condor does not stop. It continues its turn to port, and appears to be trying to flee.
In the meantime, you've kind of got your hands full. You have prisoners, some of whom are still in the water. You have three ships in various stages of repair. You have freed slaves in the hold of the Kestrel, and more on the Barracuda, and as far as I know, nobody has checked the hold of the Hawk.
What would you like to do next?
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 28/34, channel 4/5) Wednesday September 5th, 2018 5:50:48 PM
At this point, Terser thinks that subterfuge may be the better option. Spin a story that some ships were taken over, and the crew of the Barracuda repelled the invaders, retook the Kestrel and Hawk, which are pursuing the fleeing Condor that is still in enemy hands.
Meanwhile, we can approach the island under a seeming spell or some other guise and present ourselves as the crew.
Or, we sink the worst ship, give the other two to the freedmen to sail off, fly over to the Condor to stop it, then sneak back onto the island.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 165/176) Wednesday September 5th, 2018 6:17:48 PM
Bralin returns the deck of the Kestrel, ahead of the now freed slaves. Once Tahni drops the second fire wall, the dwarf waves them up, and then evaluates the Condor.
He cannot catch it, or slow it down.
The battle seems over.
Which leaves a nautical situation with which he has no familiarity.
Bralin waits for instructions from the others.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 d20+26=44 ; Wednesday September 5th, 2018 7:03:26 PM
Aex notifies Zeoll and goes ahead to scout the island. They need to know what to expect once they make port. (perception 44)
Leafy stays on the ship and helps where ever he can to recovering both slaves and enemy sailors.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+31=40 ; Wednesday September 5th, 2018 8:30:53 PM
Rill begins to seeing that the Bloodkin are now placed in the same manacles that formerly held the slaves.
"You are our prisoners. We do not intend to harm you unless you give us reason to, but we cannot let you run around for the time being. So, what will we find when we get to that island? Who is in charge there, and would they surrender to ensure your safety?"
Rill is pretty sure they do not think their superiors on the island will surrender for these captured men, but he is very interested in what and how they answer. Sense Motive 40.
----------------------------- Sense Motive A successful check lets you avoid being bluffed (see the Bluff skill). You can also use this skill to determine when “something is up” (that is, something odd is going on) or to assess someone’s trustworthiness.
Hunch: This use of the skill involves making a gut assessment of the social situation. You can get the feeling from another’s behavior that something is wrong, such as when you’re talking to an impostor. Alternatively, you can get the feeling that someone is trustworthy.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Wednesday September 5th, 2018 8:33:00 PM "Are there any slaves on that ship? Tahni asks the freed slaves as she points to the ship trying to flee. If there are then she isn't keen to end the fight just yet.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d8=2 ; d20+4=23 ; Wednesday September 5th, 2018 9:11:05 PM
Fang looks at the fleeing ship in the distance. "Don't we need to do something about that? I thought the idea was not to tip off the rest of the enemy and they'll surly warn the others."
Fang looks at the pile of weapons they're collecting and wonders how many are magical. If nothing else they've gotten a decent chunk of change in those weapons out of it. She continues to supervise the disarming of pirates as they get out of the water. Once all of the pirates are assembled she'll cast Mass Cure Light Wounds on them, focusing the 8 most damaged (10 healing XD). "Alas my skill in combat comes with a price of being poorer than my fellows at healing." She'll use the Heal Skill to patch them up the rest of the way, or at least as best she can (heal 23).
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 96/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Wednesday September 5th, 2018 9:32:12 PM
Jozhur isn't terribly happy about all the prisoners they've taken. They still have an island to attack, how are they to watch these Bloodkin? Shall they give the pirates a ship and let them sail off? He quickly expresses his concern to Zeoll, out of earshot of their prisoners.
The rogue then sets to work ensuring the slaves are freed on all of the ships.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Thursday September 6th, 2018 12:00:56 AM
Zeoll says, "Come on, Fang! You arre rright! Don't let them get away!"
He asks Drini and the Dryad to follow as well.
He runs over the waves for a round to get to the escaping ship.
Next round it will be time to attack.
DM Kathy Thursday September 6th, 2018 1:23:45 AM Bralin and Terser finish freeing the slaves and return to the deck of the Kestrel. The Condor has nearly completed her turn and is starting to open up some distance. Terser is of the opinion that subterfuge is the best option; Bralin has no opinion for now. And, whatever your opinions, you can only share them with each other and the freed slaves; everybody else is on the Hawk or the Barracuda.
Aexana heads off to scout Market Island. It's going to take her a little while to get there.
Tahni asks the freed slaves on the Barracuda whether there are any slaves on the Condor. They don't know.
Fang wonders aloud about the fleeing ship, but she does nothing to chase it for the moment. Instead, she concentrates on patching people up.
Jozhur heads below to find whether there are any slaves aboard the Hawk. You find just three, huddled together near the stern, trembling in fear.
Zeoll, for one, does not intend to let the Condor get away! He, his genie, and his nymph begin heading after it.
Rill is questioning the prisoners. He asks who is in charge on the island, except you already know the answer to that.
Time for a recap!
Before the crossover, you went to Market Island. Aexana and Tahni were not yet with the group, but the rest of you were there. Market Island is essentially a marketplace. Ships tie up at the dock, and slavers come ashore to buy and sell slaves. Only two people actually live on the island. You saw the human, Rab, and Zeoll actually talked to him. He has a half-orc partner named Drigka, whom you never saw.
Rab and Drigka are entrepreneurs. They've set up a marketplace, and they take a percentage of each sale. They do not owe any particular loyalty to the Bloodkin or anybody else.
You guys are trying to find and eliminate the Death Dragon cult; that's what the Iron Dragons asked you to do. The cult has been working with the Bloodkin. You don't know where the Death Dragon cult is, but you were able to find these Bloodkin. You can, of course, keep going and trying to get more Bloodkin, or you could try to find out what these ones know about the Death Dragon cult.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 10d6=36 ; Thursday September 6th, 2018 8:29:20 AM
Tahni is going to try and slow the Condor from leaving. She sends a fireball towards its sails.
---------------- Standard: Use Combined Spells ability to use a 4th level BW slot to cast a 3rd level Wiz spell. Cast Fireball towards the sails of the condor. Range: 1000ft. Ref Save vs DC22. 36pts fire Damage or half on save.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Thursday September 6th, 2018 4:15:14 PM
OOC - I should have known we were rather far from the island... the fog Aex created was 3 miles radius and we were fighting at the edge of the fog. So actually it doesn't make any sense for her to try to go to the island at this point. Sorry folks. Sleep deprivation is kicking in.
Aex started to fly to the island but as she goes through the fog she realizes she's acting like a goofball... what was she thinking?!? Get back there you feathery nitwit! The greenmage turns around and hopes to be of some use for her friends as they try to capture the Condor. If she could reach it, she could cast some wood shaping spell on the Condor's rudder so it would go in circles.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 165/176) Thursday September 6th, 2018 6:25:01 PM
The battle is not yet over, as Bralin notes his companions in pursuit of the Condor.
Having no means of catching up to the vessel, the dwarf activates his winged boots and starts back for the Hawk, and the various spellcasters aboard her.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 28/34, channel 4/5) d20+21=38 ; Thursday September 6th, 2018 6:47:01 PM
Not considering it a great idea to let Zeoll go off on his own (despite the myriad of creatures he has hanging around), Terser walks up into the air to go after him. He lets the talky types to the interrogating, at least until he's needed to do some scaring.
He looks around the captured pirates as he goes. You answer all my mates' questions now, else you'll deal with me when I get back.Intimidate 38
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+4=13 ; Thursday September 6th, 2018 7:55:30 PM
Fang is not the best interrogator but she can help whoever steps up to actually do it (13 to aid another on Dip or Intimidate check, whatever is needed). Maybe the fact that she healed and tended to them would make them more cooperative.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 96/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Thursday September 6th, 2018 8:03:37 PM
Jozhur quickly makes sure the slaves are okay and fills them in on the current situation, trying to reassure them. While he has them, he asks them if they've heard anything about the "Death Dragons".
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC21/23vEvil; 77hp) Thursday September 6th, 2018 10:22:16 PM
After that fireball, Zeoll looks to see if any sailors or slavers survive on the deck of the escaping ship.
Granted, the fireball targeted the sails, but fire has a way of burning out of control.
Still, it is not like Zeoll has any sympathy for the slavers. If he sees no enemies, he boards and calls for slaves to be free. If he sees any foes still alive on the ship, he looses his shield (move action, AC adjusted in header) and casts a Confusion spell (standard action), DC27, make that DC29 vs Bloodkin. He then sends the nymph to board the ship and then turn on her blindness attack, after warning Drini not to look.
He calls out his thanks to Terser for coming up to make sure he is OK.
Current Magic Status: Currently on Zeoll: Water Breathe, Extended Darkvision, Extended Protection from Arrows, Extended Nondetection, Mage Armor, Taur's Try (+1 perception), Magic Circle, Elf Vision, Water Walk.
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command x4 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat - SFF4, restoration - SFF4, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally Sorc Spells: 1: 4 of 8 used (mage armor x4) 2: 0 of 8 used 3: 0 of 7 used 4: 2 of 4 used (confusion x2) Other resources: Cape: 1 of 1 used Horns: 2 of 4 used SHIELD status: loosed
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Friday September 7th, 2018 12:24:33 AM
Rill relies on his Status spell to keep track of his friends.
"Jozhur, Fang, be ready. I think Zeoll and Terser approach the remaining ship. I may need to take us there if I sense trouble."
DM Kathy d20+12=23 ; d20+12=20 ; d20+12=13 ; d20+12=24 ; d20+12=27 ; d20+12=21 ; d20+12=17 ; d20+12=14 ; Friday September 7th, 2018 12:35:56 AM
In an effort to slow the Condor, Tahni sends a Fireball at the sails. Some of the sailors make their saves and take no damage; the rest take some. But of course, the main point of the Fireball was to set the sails alight, and it succeeded quite well! The crew begin scrambling to put out the fire.
Zeoll and his companions want to board the Condor, but they haven't caught up to her yet. She was moving at a pretty good clip until her sails caught fire. Now that she's slowed down, it may be possible to board her, but all of her crew--and half the crew of the Kestrel--are still there. Also, how are you planning to board? You are walking on the water, right? Are you just going to try to climb up the side? Do you have some kind of jump or fly effect you can use? How is the nymph going to get up there?
With a final threat at the prisoners, TerserAir Walks after Zeoll. He, too, hasn't reached the Condor yet.
Meanwhile, Bralin heads back to the Hawk, and Aexana re-thinks her scouting idea and returns to the group.
Fang is at her intimidating best to help with the interrogations.
Jozhur reassures the slaves, and asks them about the Death Dragons. Two of the slaves have no idea what you're talking about, but the third begins to answer so quickly that his words almost tumble over each other. It is immediately clear that he is terrified of the Death Dragons, even more than the Bloodkin.
"They take the slaves," he says. "The ones that are used up and can't do no more. I've seen it with my own eyes! They take 'em--buy 'em off the Bloodkin, I think--and I don't know what happens next, but I heard these cult people sacrifice them to their dark god! I hear they have all kinds of awful rituals, and they need sacrifices for all of 'em."
My understanding of where everybody is: Jozhur, Fang, Rill, and now Bralin are aboard the Hawk. Tahni is still back on the Barracuda. Aexana is flying overhead somewhere. Zeoll, Terser, and Zeoll's summoned creatures are chasing down the Condor. Is that right?
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC21/23vEvil; 77hp) d20=20 ; Friday September 7th, 2018 1:10:38 AM
The nymph turns on her blinding power tries to climb up the side of the ship: untrained climb check is a nat 20!
Zeoll, when he is more than 30 feet from the nymph but less than 200 ft from the ship, casts Confusion. Will DC 27 / 29 for Bloodkin. He does as the nymph climbs, so that she is not in the area of effect.
Current Magic Status: Currently on Zeoll: Water Breathe, Extended Darkvision, Extended Protection from Arrows, Extended Nondetection, Mage Armor, Taur's Try (+1 perception), Magic Circle, Elf Vision, Water Walk.
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command x4 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat - SFF4, restoration - SFF4, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally Sorc Spells: 1: 4 of 8 used (mage armor x4) 2: 0 of 8 used 3: 0 of 7 used 4: 2 of 4 used (confusion x2) Other resources: Cape: 1 of 1 used Horns: 2 of 4 used SHIELD status: loosed
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 10d6=34 ; Saturday September 8th, 2018 8:58:37 AM "I can keep this up all day!" Tahni calls out as she sends another fireball towards the Condor .She intends to burn the sails to smithereens..
---------------- Standard: Use Combined Spells ability to use a 4th level BW slot to cast a 3rd level Wiz spell. Cast Fireball towards the sails of the condor. Range: 1000ft. Ref Save vs DC22. 34pts fire Damage or half on save.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 165/176) Saturday September 8th, 2018 10:30:58 AM
Bralin swoops onto the deck of the Hawk, landing next to Rill.
He turns to face the slowly retreating Condor, and waits.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 96/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Saturday September 8th, 2018 7:53:46 PM
Jozhur tells the slaves they are free to do as they wish, things are a little too chaotic for in depth quesitoning right now. Not a fan of everyone being separated, Jozhur heads topside and begins chasing after the Condor using the water walk spell cast on him by Rill.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 29/20/24 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+4=10 ; Sunday September 9th, 2018 10:46:03 AM
Fang is a little confused as to why they're questioning the slaves who probably know nothing. She decides to asks some questions of the Bloodkin prisoners about the Death cult; since she has no idea who or what the rest of the party is talking about her questions amount to, "Soooo.... what is a Death Dragon cult? Why are you guys working with a cult? It doesn't sound like your usual shtick."
While she speaks politely the fact that she's covered head to toe in the gore of Bloodkin she just killed it mostly comes off as "answer my questions or you'll be joining your fellows in decorating my outfit" (intimidate 10 and she should totally get a circumstance bonus from the gore).
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Sunday September 9th, 2018 6:08:28 PM
If by now Aexana has been able to reach the Condor, and the ship has not yet stopped 'running', she'll swoop down to the ships rudder and cast Warp Wood (CL13 so up to a huge object) to make sure the ship can only sail in circles...
DM Kathy d20+7=20 ; d20+9=24 ; d20+4=10 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+4=9 ; d20+4=7 ; d20+12=23 ; d20+12=29 ; d20+12=14 ; d20+12=25 ; d20+12=17 ; d20+21=29 ; d3=2 ; d100=25 ; d100=97 ; d100=94 ; d100=27 ; Sunday September 9th, 2018 9:51:48 PM Zeoll's nymph climbs the stern of the ship with her blinding power on. The Bloodkin there in the stern is blinded; the halfling makes his save. Meanwhile, Zeoll himself casts Confusion. Four of the Bloodkin become Confused.
Tahni sends another Fireball at the Condor. This time only two Bloodkin fail their saves, but the ship is truly on fire.
Bralin returns to the Hawk, just as Jozhur slips over the side and starts chasing after the Condor.
Aexana swoops down to the Condor and casts a Warp Wood. She succeeds in warping the tiller, but given the state of the fire, steering is the least of their worries right now.
Aboard the Hawk, Fang asks some of the Bloodkin prisoners about the Death Dragon cult. That gets a rise out of one of them, who spits angrily on the deck. "Listen here, you--whatever you are," he fumes. "My mates and me ain't got nothin' to do with them Death Dragon dogs." A chorus of angry mutters backs up his statement. "Some of the bosses like 'em," the man continues, "wanted us to join 'em, but Cap'n said no, and so did we, right lads?" More angry mutterings, and a few "ayes" thrown in.
Aboard the Condor, some more men appear on deck. They don't seem to be Bloodkin; they are wearing tattered rags and a few are in chains. The Bloodkin shove them toward the fire, and they begin trying to put it out with sand and sacking.
The blind Bloodkin in the stern blunders about ineffectively. The halfling skips back and throws a dagger at Zeoll's nymph, hitting AC 29 for 2 damage.
One of the confused Bloodkin acts normally; he begins aiming the stern ballista. Another stands where he is, babbling. The other two attack each other. Most of the rest of the crew is either fighting the fire or chivvying the slaves to fight the fire.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC21/23vEvil; 77hp) Sunday September 9th, 2018 11:24:59 PM
OOC: The genie expired, so I took him off the map.
Zeoll casts Hold Person at one of the Bloodkin ordering the slaves to fight the fire. The Will Save DC is 27 for these bad guys. If he fails, he gets a new save every round.
If he DOES fail, Zeoll sends Drini over to deliver a coup de grace next round. She flies to the deck next to the guy and changes into a goat. An invisible goat. IF the guy fails the DC27 will save.
Zeoll dons his shield and takes a step forward.
The nymph LOOKS at the other bloodkin, not the one targetted by the hold. "As a standard action, a nymph can stun a creature within 30 feet with a look. The target must succeed on a DC 21 Fortitude save or be stunned for 2d4 rounds."
DM Sanity Info
Nymph (AC27 with mage armor, 2 hp damage) (Round 12 of 24)
Note: Drini stats at very bottom of Zeoll's sheet.
Current Magic Status: Currently on Zeoll: Water Breathe, Extended Darkvision, Extended Protection from Arrows, Extended Nondetection, Mage Armor, Taur's Try (+1 perception), Magic Circle, Elf Vision, Water Walk.
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command x4 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat - SFF4, restoration - SFF4, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally Sorc Spells: 1: 4 of 8 used (mage armor x4) 2: 0 of 8 used 3: 0 of 7 used 4: 3 of 4 used (confusion x3) Other resources: Cape: 1 of 1 used Horns: 2 of 4 used SHIELD status: loosed
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Monday September 10th, 2018 8:57:43 AM
Well, Tahni can't send another fireball over now the slaves are above deck. She needs to take a more surgical approach to the attack,
Tahni starts another summoning spell. Amith is just going to have to come back and fight properly this time.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Monday September 10th, 2018 4:56:01 PM
Aex just observes as the ship is burning and going in circles. She guesses it'll be just a matter of time before they lay down their arms.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 165/176) Monday September 10th, 2018 6:26:01 PM
Bralin looks up at Rill. Mayhap the Grim is distracted. Bralin elbows him in the thigh, and looks inquiringly at the Condor.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d100=20 ; Monday September 10th, 2018 6:54:26 PM
(Sorry - Real Life has been distracting me lately.)
Rill can see that Zeoll and Tahni were not content to let the Condor get away. Which is just as well since they also had slaves aboard.
"Well, it seems were not done with the others. Fang - can you hold things here now that the slaves are chaining up the surviving slavers?"
Assuming that Fang's answer is yes, Rill will Teleport (successful roll) with Jozhur, Bralin, Terser, and Leafy over to the other ship.
"Hear me, crew of the Condor! We have taken the other three ships. We will take this ship too, and whether you're alive or dead at the end is up to you. Surrender now and you will be spared."
(Not sure if I fit things in properly - I did my best. If Fang really want's to go and the slaves have the Hawk under control, Rill will take Fang instead of Leafy - usually better to involve PCs in combat than NPCs.)
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Monday September 10th, 2018 7:32:17 PM "No problem, we'll handle things here." Fang tells Rill. She and the ex-slaves sit and guard the prisoners. She'd ask more questions, but she doesn't have enough information to feel she can ask intelligent ones so doesn't. Let the rest of the group who know the importance of this cult ask.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 28/34, channel 4/5) d20+20=39 ; 2d8+8=14 ; Monday September 10th, 2018 9:28:59 PM
Terser aims to take out the Ballista, sending his flying warhammer sailing at the firing mechanism and calling it back to his hand. AC39 for 14 damageSurrender, or the next broken thing will be your slaver heads!
DM Kathy d20+4=11 ; d20+9=12 ; d100=47 ; d100=51 ; d20+17=32 ; d20+17=23 ; d20+12=28 ; d20+12=19 ; d4=3 ; d4=3 ; d4=1 ; Monday September 10th, 2018 10:30:13 PM Zeoll casts a Hold Person on one of the Bloodkin. He is held, and Drini pops over to deliver the coup de grace. [since she can teleport, I re-positioned her].The nymph looks at the halfling who saved agains the blinding effect. He fails his save and is stunned.
Tahni stops lobbing Fireballs in favor of casting a summoning spell.
Aexana is content to watch for now.
Rill teleports the group to the Condor and calls for the Bloodkin to surrender.
Unfortunately, Zeoll's nymph hasn't yet had time to turn off her Blinding aura. Oh, wait; it's a free action. I'll just assume she hit the emergency brake. :)
Fang stays behind on the Hawk, seeing to the mopping-up. You don't ask questions, but you do nevertheless learn a few things. There are factions within the Bloodkin--those who have gone along with the Death Dragon cult and whatever they're planning, and those who want nothing to do with those weirdos. The crew of these four ships are what remain of the latter faction.
Terser uses his Dwarven Thrower do damage the ballista.
Two of the confused Bloodkin are carving each other up. The one who had loaded the ballista now stands there, babbling something about otters. The remaining one attacks Terser, which is sure to end well for him. Terser is hit 3 times for 25 damage.
The two in the bow are loading the ballista, though hitting anything useful with it will be nearly impossible. The remaining Bloodkin and halflings and slaves are all fighting the fire.
The blind Bloodkin in the stern (he's the yellow one) surrenders. Of the other nearby foes, the turquoise halfling is stunned, and the purple guys are confused. The dark-blue Bloodkin is Hold Personed.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC21/23vEvil; 77hp) Monday September 10th, 2018 11:32:24 PM
Zeoll directs the nymph to help free slaves and to comfort them. He calls to Drini and Asks her to lower a rope if she sees one so he can climb up.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d20+10=20 ; d20+10=24 ; d20+10=21 ; 4d6=16 ; 4d6=14 ; 4d6=16 ; Tuesday September 11th, 2018 3:37:53 AM
Tahni's spell finishes and a brooding Amith appears once more
She points towards the Condor "Look, we have to get over there. The sooner this is all done the sooner it is you can go back to doing whatever it is you do"
Amith reluctantly grabs Tahni's arm and dim doors the pair to the south of the vessel. Fortunately they both can fly.
The Azata stays put with the crew of the Barracuda
Now within range, Tahni keeps up the fiery assault. She casts a Scorching Ray spell at the nearest halfling.
She isn't quite in agreement with Rill and Terser. Her thinking is with Zeoll: the only mercy a slaver will be shown is a swift death. Those who simply ally or work alongside the slavers may live to see another day however.
-----------------------
Amith Standard: Dimension Door. Max range: 840ft
Tahni Standard: Cast Scorching Ray at the nearest halfling (moving on to the next nearest target if he/she falls) Hits Touch AC20 for 16pts fire damage. No Save. Hits Touch AC24 for 14pts fire damage. No Save. Hits Touch AC21 for 16pts fire damage. No Save.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 27/34, channel 4/5) d20+21=33 ; d20+16=26 ; d20+11=28 ; 3d10+28=47 ; d10+28=33 ; d10+28=35 ; Tuesday September 11th, 2018 12:39:51 PM
While Terser is tired of the stubborn refusal of these slavers to give up to a superior force, he can't say he's surprised. For the third time today, he turns on his anger and carves up a foe, daring the others to keep up the fight.
Rage HP 239/260 Attacks AC33 for 47 damage AC26 for 33 damage AC28 for 35 damage
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 167/176) d20+18=28 ; Tuesday September 11th, 2018 7:02:23 PM
Bralin looks about. Other than the Bloodkin Terser is dispatching, there are a distinct lack of viable foe on this vessel.
Shrugging, the dwarf stows his axe, and grabs the turquoise halfling.
-- Grapple turquoise halfling. Don't think he gets his AoO since he's stunned. Grapple attempt successful if halfling CMD 28 or less.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday September 11th, 2018 8:04:18 PM
Welp. Guarding prisoners. Not much else to say. Fang cleans her weapon some while she waits. She needs a bath but can't really do that at the moment.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 96/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+18=35 ; 6d6=27 ; 2d6=8 ; d6+3=9 ; d20+24=25 ; Tuesday September 11th, 2018 9:36:14 PM
Jozhur moves to flank one of the nearby Bloodkin and attacks with his sword. ---------------------------
Attack hits AC 35, 9 damage, 27 sneak damage, 8 damage is evil
Acrobatics to avoid AoO: 25 --------------------------- Sorry everyone, I'm out of town on business then on vacation over the weekend. Should be able to post, but they'll be brief. I'm also unable to move myself on the map with my phone.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Tuesday September 11th, 2018 9:56:23 PM
Rill calls to the Water Elemental to help any that may still be in the water. If there are none, he directs the creature to begin slowing the momentum of the Condor and perhaps pushing it towards the other ships. It's just a medium elemental, but even a little effort in the water may be a help.
Seeing that one surrendered, Rill hopes to stem any needless loss of life.
"Come now! Most have surrendered. In Gargul's name, lay down your weapons - you deserve better than a watery fate, dying for some stupid cult!"
DM Kathy d4=3 ; d4=2 ; d20+7=14 ; d20+17=33 ; d20+17=34 ; d20+17=28 ; d20+12=19 ; d20+12=32 ; d4=4 ; d4=4 ; d4=3 ; d4=2 ; Wednesday September 12th, 2018 12:06:57 AM Zeoll's nymph starts working to free the slaves. She tries to comfort them, but their ship is on fire and if she sinks, she'll take slaves and slavers alike to the bottom of the sea. So they're a little preoccupied. Drini does her coup de grace this round, and as it's a full-round action she doesn't have time to drop ladders. That Bloodkin, by the way, fails his save and dies.
Tahni has Amith teleport her nearer the Condor. He makes some remark about there being limits to the number of times he should be expected to die in one day, but Tahni is busy lighting up one of the halflings. Her Scorching Rays all hit and do damage.
Terser eliminates the Bloodkin that attacked him, while Bralin grabs hold of the stunned halfling.
Fang continues to guard the prisoners.
Jozhur--assuming he doesn't want to attack the blind Bloodkin who has surrendered--moves to flank one of the confused Bloodkin and attack him.
Rill calls to the rest of the crew to surrender, and moves his water elemental to slow down the Condor.
The two confused Bloodkin succeed in killing each other.
The remaining confused Bloodkin, having been attacked by Jozhur, now attacks him in return. Jozhur is hit 3 times, once critically, for 37 damage.
The other Bloodkin, halflings, and slaves are mostly fighting the fire. The two in the bow are not, and they look around them uncertainly. But there's a fire between them and the guy they're supposed to surrender to, so they're not sure what to do.
I keep mentioning the fire, but I get the feeling people keep forgetting about it, so I've added some orange blobs to the map.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d20+16=29 ; 5d8=32 ; Wednesday September 12th, 2018 7:41:11 AM
Tahni flies just a little closer to the ship and attempts to put out one of the fires
Amith keeps his distance this time and fires a searing light spell at the halfling Tahni burnt
-----------------------
Tahni Move: Fly a bit closer Standard: Cast Create Water on the nearest fire. 30 gallons.
Amith Standard: Cast Searing Light. Hits Touch AC29 for 32pts damage. No Save
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Wednesday September 12th, 2018 3:34:03 PM
Rill directs the summoned Water Elemental to do what he can to now put out the fires. I imagine it will need to first climb aboard to do so, but once there it can use it's Drench ability to help.
Rill will follow Tahni's lead and cast Create Water, also dumping water on the flames.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Wednesday September 12th, 2018 6:07:00 PM
Aex sees her friends are now struggeling to put the fire down they started... If the create water spells are insufficient, she'll cast Quench (CL13) on the fires - thus extinguishing 13 x 20ft cubes of fire... hoping that'll do Aex turns to see where Leafy is... he'll still on the other boat?
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 167/176) Wednesday September 12th, 2018 8:58:04 PM
Bralin has lost his enthusiasm for this fight. These Bloodkin are hopelessly outmatched.
Almost dismissively, the dwarf takes a step to the edge of the Condor, and drops the turquoise halfling over the side.
Pulling his axe, he turns on the foe facing Jozhur.
"Yield"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 27/34, channel 4/5) Thursday September 13th, 2018 12:23:51 AM
Terser backs up Bralin against Jozhurs foe. He's pro deescalation.
DM Kathy d20+17=36 ; d20+17=26 ; d20+17=34 ; d20+17=34 ; d20+12=18 ; d20+12=26 ; d4=3 ; d4=1 ; d4=2 ; d4=3 ; d4=2 ; Thursday September 13th, 2018 12:24:21 AM Rill, Tahni, and Aexana are able to drop enough water on the flames so that the crew can finish putting out the fire.
In the stern, Bralin calls for the Bloodkin attacking Jozhur to yield. However, the man is still under the effects of a Confusion spell, so he can't yield; he must go on attacking Jozhur until one of them is dead.
Jozhur is hit 3 times, twice critically, and takes a total of 41 damage.
The remaining Bloodkin and halflings, however, seem to have lost their taste for fighting. They surrender.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d8=4 ; d8=1 ; d8=3 ; d8=3 ; Thursday September 13th, 2018 7:28:05 AM
Tahni is happy to see the slavers surrender. Amith sighs as it seems he was summoned again for the briefest of tasks.
Tahni ignores him, or perhaps just doesn't pick up on his signals. "Could you please patch Jozhur up a bit?". Amith follows the order and casts a CSW spell.
"Perhaps we should gathering the ships together and get all of the prisoners in once place?"
She's confident that this last, confused man will fall very quickly.
------------ Amith: Cast CSW. Jozhur healed for 21pts
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday September 13th, 2018 11:38:49 AM
Rill is glad to see the fighting has ended. Well, most of it anyway.
"Zeoll, if it is within your power to release the mind of this poor soul still fighting, that would be a kindness."
Then he addresses the crew aboard this vessel.
"The rest of you Bloodkin, lay down your weapons. We hail from Bonetown, the same as many of you. We have come to stop a Dragon Cult you have choosen to serve. Now would be a good time to rethink that decision. What can you tell us about this group? Why do you serve them? What have they offered you?"
Also, once they have all laid down down their weapons, Rill will Channel Energy, healing Black Lions, Bloodkin and slaves alike for 33 points as a gesture of good will.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 29/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+19=27 ; d6+1=3 ; 6d6=24 ; Thursday September 13th, 2018 2:46:31 PM
Hurting badly, Jozhur moves to flank with Terser and tries using his sap to beat some sense into the confused Bloodkin.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 27/34, channel 4/5) d20+21=28 ; 3d10+15=33 ; Thursday September 13th, 2018 5:27:42 PM
If the confused man drops his weapons (or drops unconscious), Terser will consider the fight well won. If not, then he'll conk the man on the head.
AC28 for 33 (non-lethal) damage.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 168/176) d20+21=26 ; d10+11=12 ; d20+16=22 ; d10+11=19 ; d20+11=25 ; d10+11=20 ; Thursday September 13th, 2018 6:33:46 PM
If the fellow isn't unconscious yet, Bralin flips his axe around, and pummels him with the handle.
Non Lethal attack -
Atk 1 hits ac 26 for 12 hp damage Atk 2 hits ac 22 for 19 hp damage Atk 3 hits ac 25 for 20 hp damage
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday September 13th, 2018 7:07:26 PM
Fang finishes cleaning her weapon and puts it away. Her mind starts to wander before she snaps it back to watching the prisoners. Inattentive guards get shanked.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Thursday September 13th, 2018 9:51:53 PM
Aexana swoops down to her friends and casts Cure Serious wounds on Jozhur.
DM Kathy Friday September 14th, 2018 12:07:37 AM
A few solid clonks on the head and the confused Bloodkin falls unconscious. The rest of them surrender. The fire is out, but the Condor is going to need serious repairs if she's going to sail agin. It might be easier to just scuttle her, especially if you can bring the other three ships over here. Oh, and the Lionfish, too.
Rill asks the Bloodkin why they serve the Death Dragon cult. Like Fang, when she asked a similar question, he is met with instant, vehement denial. The crews of the Condor, the Barracuda, the Hawk, and the Kestrel are the Bloodkin that did not agree to cooperate with the Death Dragons. The Bloodkin leadership, and many of the other crews, have fallen in with the Death Dragons, but these crews have not. Reading between the lines, you get the sense that the crews you captured were having rather a rough time of it, cut off from usual sources of support.
In the meantime, you have a pile of slaver gear. You defeated 36 Bloodkin. Each of them had: +1 chain shirt, +1 daggers (2), masterwork composite longbow (+2 Str), masterwork whip, belt of incredible dexterity +2, boots of elvenkind, cloak of the manta ray. You also defeated 8 halflings. Each of them had: +4 leather armor, +1 dagger, +1 wounding dagger, masterwork daggers (4), amulet of natural armor +2, boots of speed, cloak of minor displacement, dust of appearance, ring of protection +2
All of this gear is, of course, variously distributed among the four ships, but I'm assuming you get it all together eventually.
You also have some freed slaves, some ships, and some prisoners to question. And a lot of decisions to make.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Friday September 14th, 2018 5:21:44 AM "Let us bring some magical means to help influence their tongues" Tahni brings the others in close so that the prisoners cannot overhear.
"We take all of the prisoners below. I will cast a mind fog spell covering them all. The fog will last for 30minutes so I would expect all of them to succumb eventually. I will be able to tell the ones affected first and we bring them above deck for questioning. They will have a weaker resolve so I should them be able to Charm them, or, cast Detect Thoughts so that we can get the answers we need. The fog would also make it easier for you to peer into their souls, Rill"
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Friday September 14th, 2018 10:34:40 AM
Fang is slightly confused. "Wouldn't muddling their minds make questioning harder? If they're so muddled they can't think of the answers to our questions then we're wasting our time."
"Also, what are Death Dragons and what do they have to do with anything?"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Friday September 14th, 2018 11:47:53 AM "The mind fog simply leaves their minds more susceptible to our influence." Tahni explains "It wouldn't muddle their minds as such"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 27/34, channel 4/5) Friday September 14th, 2018 5:56:34 PM I suggest that we offer lenience to those who willingly submit to our questions and magical verification. If we need information after that, then we can resort to sterner means and harsher punishments. We could deliver the ones that cooperate to authorities with less harsh punishments for pressing people into slavery.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Friday September 14th, 2018 7:05:37 PM "I do not plan to look into the soul of each person here. Doing such a thing is a very invasive and personal thing, and there is no strategic need to do so at this point. It would also begin to take a toll on me. I do think it is a good idea to question each of the Bloodkin separately though. Between what that and the information the slaves may have, the truth will begin to come out. I will gladly take part in this, using my discernment to ferret out who may be trying to mislead us."
Rill cast Detect Evil to look over both the Bloodkin and the slaves. He will then work with a couple other Black Lions to question the folks here, generally asking:
- who they are? - where they are from? - who their captain is? - what ships they recently sailed on? - where the slaves were acquired? - where the slaves were destined beyond this island? - whom they were to meet on this island? - what they know of the Death Dragons? - the names of any Death Dragons, or Bloodkin Leaders that are working with the Death Dragons? - what will you do if we turn the lot of you loose on a ship?
Rill will use his Sense Motive (+31) to give him a hunch about these folks as we go. If any really give him the creeps, he will use Probe Psyche to peer into the soul of one or two of them to learn more. If all the answers seem to be the same, we may not need to actually questions them all.
(I don't need a detailed response from the DM on this, and realize the questions may yield little more than what we have already learned. My hope here is to determine if there is more info to be gained, how consistent the responses are, and get a sense of the risk to us and the Wold of letting these Bloodkin go.)
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 29/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+23=33 ; Friday September 14th, 2018 8:45:22 PM
Jozhur agrees with Terser and Rill. It seems these Bloodkin may actually be somewhat cooperative with questioning about this cult.
He watches and listens as the others ask the questions, seeing what he can pick up on.
Sense motive: +18 Perception roll: 33
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC21/23vEvil; 77hp) d20+4=23 ; d20+4=10 ; d20+32=46 ; d20+30=40 ; Friday September 14th, 2018 11:39:55 PM
Zeoll thanks the nymph and sends her on her way. He thanks Drini too. "You werre a huge help!" he tells the pookah.
He does his best to listen and observe as the prisoners are questioned. He says nothing.
Perception 46 Sense Motive 40
[OOC: I've been in a funk and suffering from a cold. Apologies for being awol a few days. I'm jumping back in now.]
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Saturday September 15th, 2018 12:37:26 AM
Tahni proceeds with her plan: mind fogging all the enemy and then using Detect Thoughts as part of the questioning. Their minds may give more detail than the words that come from their mouths.
She is most interested in what each captive would do if released. Would you try and turn a new leaf, seek revenge, or continue the life you have been leading?
It is that question that will determine their fates.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 168/176) Saturday September 15th, 2018 9:02:33 AM
Bralin makes himself useful by helping out any former slaves who need minor healing, collecting gear, getting people off of the Condor, and any other physical labor that is called for while the questioning continues.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Saturday September 15th, 2018 7:27:18 PM
Fang goes around and interviews the slaves to figure out which ones have seafaring experience. Regardless of if the slaves fight with them or try to reach port they'll need to get them organized and ready to crew the captured ships. She tries to get one of the Black Lions with sailing experience to help pick out the best suited of the slaves, perhaps even appointing one or two captains to lead the others in whatever they end up doing.
DM Kathy Sunday September 16th, 2018 8:55:20 PM Tahni suggests using magical means to question the prisoners, but Rill believes he can ferret out the truth using just his abilities, and Jozhur tends to agree. Terser suggests a sort of carrot-and-stick approach.
Meanwhile, Zeoll dismisses his summoned friends and Bralin works to heal some of the former slaves.
Fang is able to determine that nearly all of the former slaves have sailing experience; most were sailors or fishermen before being taken.
But you're all going to have to help your DM out here. Right now, there are 4 captured ships, 3 in kind of a group, and the 4th a few hundred years away. Each ship has both former slaves and captured slavers aboard. Well, there aren't any slavers aboard the Kestrel; they all abandoned ship. But there are former slaves there. Also, your group is distributed among the various ships, or they were the last time we checked in.
Last time, I gave you the total equipment list for all the slavers, so I feel like I was the one who set a bad example. But I wanted you to have the total list all at once, rather than getting it piecemeal, and I wanted you to have it before the weekend in case anybody wanted to do anything with it. But those reasons were logistical, rather than storytelling.
So, back to the story--where are you guys, exactly? Where are your prisoners and former slaves? And how did they get there? I don't need a detailed description, but I do need the basic outlines of how you gathered everybody onto one ship. If that's what you did.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Sunday September 16th, 2018 9:25:22 PM
For the end state, Tahni proposes something along the lines of...
- 1 ship for the slaves comfortable enough to sail themselves somewhere - 1 ship for the captured enemies who truely wish to reform to sail themselves somewhere (only after sufficient questioning and magical mind probing to determine their sincerity) - 1 ship for the party and the non-capable slaves - 1 ship (the disabled ship) to be sunk and act as a watery tomb for the slavers who cannot be reformed as well as the corpses the party have collected
In order to get things sorted out, Zeoll has taken charge to get the former slaves onto the two more seaworthy ships and the slavers onto the third. He calls to Tula via mental link relay, and uses the Lionfish and the Swan Boat to ferry people around. He thanks Bralin for his good work getting former captives up and ready.
That fourth ship looks ready to be scuppered, in Zeoll's not-so-expert opinion (Profession Sailor 14?).
The old liontaur addresses the former prisoners. "I am Captain Zeoll of the Lionfish, and we hate slaverrs with a passion! Today we scorred a victorry in ourr fight against slaverry. You werre captive, but now you arre frree!"
"If you wish to leave now as frree people, go on that ship and deparrt at yourr will, because no one may naysay you! You are indeed frree!"
"Yon island is a den of slaverrs, and we of the Lionfish go now to finish them. If you wish more of our aid, food, and rest before you take yourr frreedom, go to that ship and await ourr next victory. We will rreturrn within hours to you, or die trrying. And I do not expect to die today."
He directs Tula to keep the Lionfish nearby in case there is trouble or if the former captives need help.
He has nothing to say to the slavers, and awaits his friends' meetings with them. He makes it plain that he is in favor of quick executions for them all. He will freely use his magic to determine truth -- and any who willingly worked as slavers are perforce guilty.
When the party is ready, he suggests taking the Swan Boat to the island and simply making a frontal assault. First attack the ships so that none may escape, then death to slavers.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC21/23vEvil; 77hp) Sunday September 16th, 2018 10:02:20 PM
OOC: Posted same time as Rob -- but our ideas are not incompatible. :-)
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Monday September 17th, 2018 1:09:30 AM
(Kudos to DM Kathy for coordinating a complicated battle aboard several ships!)
Rill turns to Zeoll. "O captain, my captain, let us not execute these poor, misguided souls. I agree now that we should use what resources we have to determine their outlook and intent going forward. You have convinced me of that. Those that are willing to turn from their ways, we should release with the promise that if we hear of any future misdeeds, they will surely answer to us.
"But I suggest that even a recalcitrant, slaving, bloodthirsty Bloodkin may have value alive. We release them with the same admonition to turn from their ways, and the same threat if they do not. Even if they leave here and do evil, they will do so constantly looking over their shoulders. They carry with them the message that there is a force for good in the Wold, a force to be feared by those that would do evil.
"My Lord Gargul is neither good nor evil, and at the same time I think, embodies both. If the creatures Maab sends in response to your summons are any indication, the same may be true of her. As a result, the Black Lions rely on Redcaps and Hags to support the good we strive for. Is it our place to execute a surrendered foe because they are evil and MAY commit more evil acts?"
Rill agrees with Tahni and Zeoll in the ways to get the ships together. The use of Rill's previously created Swan Boat should simplify this - it will last for a day and moves without effort. Once all are together, he will proceed with Detect Evil, prisioner questioning and using Probe Psyche to help sort things out.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 27/34, channel 4/5) Monday September 17th, 2018 5:28:23 PM
As someone who's almost gotten himself in trouble by dispensing supposed justice on prisoners, Terser is feeling aligned with Rill on how to proceed. Some of these slavers may have been born into it, or just did not see another option for how to survive. If they would truly be reformed, then let them. But let them also spread the tale about how slavery will not be tolerated anywhere in the seas.
For the freedmen who will go off on their own, he sees to it that they do not go unarmed. It would not do for them to come upon another slaver in the area and be defenseless. He doesn't know whether it's better or worse to keep the slave ship name or to change it, so leaves that to the new owners.
Once the scuttled ship is decided to be sunk, he will air walk to the waterline and punch some holes in the boards to help it along. They need to get the evidence disposed of sooner rather than later. Even if they're making a frontal assault, they don't want to announce it and give the enemy time to prepare.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Monday September 17th, 2018 5:42:53 PM
Aex first finds her way back to Leafy who didn't do too bad during combat. She on the other hand hasn't been very effective. She does her best to heal those who need it, and she hands out potions to those that are in need of strength... to those that are tired, exhausted or in pain. She won'h have potions for anything but at least it can help...
The little greenmage chooses not to interfere in the discussion on who gets what ships. If needed she'll straighten the rudder on the ship she bent earlier.
I'm guessing we're still in the fog Aex created earlier? What time of day is it?? I'm guessing standard fog should have cleared by now? Are we going to the island?
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 168/176) Monday September 17th, 2018 8:07:10 PM
Bralin keeps up getting people off the Condor, certain that this particular vessel is doomed.
The plan to give the former slaves the two best ships, and the former slavers the last, is sound.
As is Rill's defense of the lives of the latter.
"The foe is beaten," he comments. "Killing them now serves no good purpose."
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 29/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Monday September 17th, 2018 9:28:52 PM
Jozhur helps get the freed slaves and Bloodkin arranged as Zeol describes. He agrees with Rill on treatment of their captives. There was a time he would have wanted to execute all these slavers. Now? Let them go, if they continue their ways, their time will come.
DM Kathy Monday September 17th, 2018 10:02:28 PM
Using the Lionfish and the swan boat, you ferry most of the corpses to the Condor, which seems destined for the bottom of the sea. Aexana therefore does not have to straighten the rudder unless she really wants to.
You also ferry the former slaves and former slavers to the Hawk, which is the least damaged of the other three ships. There, you do some questioning and sorting out.
Of the slavers, the number who truly want to turn over a new leaf and make a (relatively) honest living is depressingly small. Nearly all of them say they're reformed characters, having seen which way the wind is blowing, but most of them are lying.
The former slaves, you can sort into three groups. The largest group just want to go back to their homes and have lost their taste for life at sea. A smaller group wants to take one of the ships and get their revenge by fighting slavers--especially the Bloodkin. And there are a few who are so broken it's hard to tell whether they'll ever recover. Regardless, they're going to need some kind of long-term care.
Rill has some questions. The reformed slavers gladly tell you about the Bloodkin, Specifically, they tell you about the Blood Reaver.
The Blood Reaver is a massive warship, and also a floating headquarters for the Bloodkin. Their leader Captain Dekkar Lifebb, commands her. She hasn't been into port in nearly a decade; she is supplied by other Bloodkin ships so that her crew doesn't have to risk coming into port. Aboard the Blood Reaver, Lifebb is defended by three fierce fighters: a halfling, a dwarf, and a half-orc. Defending the Blood Reaver are a crew of Bloodkin and several ballistae. And, of course, the kraken.
The Bloodkin give you coordinates to find the Blood Reaver.
[I realize these aren't the specific questions you asked, but they're important information so that's what you get initially. If you have more questions, feel free to ask them.]
The battle didn't take long, but all the ferrying about and conversation has taken considerably longer. It is midday, and the fog is all but gone.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Tuesday September 18th, 2018 3:13:46 AM "Look, those that want to repent for their crimes and truly wish to make amends, I agree, they should be allowed to go free. Their deaths would serve no purpose. Let them live the remainder of their lives remembering how they were given a second chance and to think about how they may help others.
However those that refuse to see the error of their ways and intend to keep killing and taking others as slaves, well, we may as well end their lives here and now. They make it clear they will hurt others again, and I don't want to be responsible for that.
Let us kill them now and be done with it. The purpose of their deaths being to to prevent the deaths and suffering of countless innocent people"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Tuesday September 18th, 2018 5:47:16 AM
Tahni would also ask one of the cooperative slavers how far it is to those coordinates. Do the party have hours? Days?
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday September 18th, 2018 7:24:35 AM
Fang frowns doubtfully at Tahni. "I am no cleric of Pantheon; it is not my place to pass judgement on these men. I would prefer that the law decide if these men are deserving of death. Besides, they surrendered and asked for mercy. If we kill them all how can we expect our enemies to surrender peacefully in the future? How would those who truly wish to repent view the mass slaughter of their former comrades rendered helpless?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Tuesday September 18th, 2018 11:12:33 AM
Rill will share what he knows from looking into some of these Bloodkin and even what he suspects about their motives and lies.
”The balance of justice and mercy is a tricky thing, and I do not claim to be an expert in such matters. But I do understand the sacredness of life as well as the meaning and finality of death. I also know that we are at the point in our lives where each of us could mete out death to these Bloodkin with little effort. That is a terrible responsibility.
“But there is more going on here. We are being tested - tested for acceptance into a group vested with great power, and we will be called upon to exercise judgement in how we use that power. I think our first test was our new friend Fang here. A giant, bloody rat ran out of the hold of a slaving ship, and now she is our friend. But that decision was made corporately, and so must this one.
“I believe these Bloodkin are also part of our test - what do we do with them and how to we do it must be agreed upon. I see this not so much as a test of our mercy, though it may be that. Rather, I think this is a test our how we arrive at decisions together. So let us take a slightly different approach based on the concern of Zeoll and Tahni. Let us release these Bloodkin with strict instructions to return to Bonetown and give this ship to the Harbormaster to hold for us, and that they must cause no trouble there. The ship is ours by right of conquest, and I agree it would not be smart to turn them loose upon the seas of the Wold with a ship, much less a ship that we own. We can enforce this by Zeoll, Tahni and I carefully studying this ship. We will tell them that if this does not show up as instructed, we will teleport aboard to enforce this order and reconsider their fate.
“What say you? Is this a tenable solution? Are there other measures we can take to enforce this?”
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 27/34, channel 4/5) Tuesday September 18th, 2018 1:42:53 PM How long is the Blood Reaver scheduled to stay in that location? If we have time to shepherd the criminals to a port authority, we can see they get proper justice and still be able to crash the party at HQ.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 29/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Tuesday September 18th, 2018 6:38:48 PM
Jozhur agrees with Rill. "We whipped them pretty good. I think they will have enough fear in them to go turn in the ship. To kill in combat is one thing, but I can't condone just slaughtering these people, even if they are despicable. Make it very clear there will be no surrending if we run into them again."
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 168/176) Tuesday September 18th, 2018 6:47:32 PM
Bralin, surprise, is resolute.
"We cannot kill a beaten foe. They are at our mercy, and mercy we shall grant. Should they fail to reform, we shall cross paths again, and they will die.
Let them go back to their taverns, and spread the tale of this day.
We are the Black Lions. If ye be slavers, we come for you."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Tuesday September 18th, 2018 7:41:30 PM "They only surrendered as they were beaten and saw it as the only option that they may possibly see another day. They tell you they will harm again. They tell you others will get hurt if they are released and you would have them do that?
You can tell the ex-slaves here that despite all the things these murderers have done that you are letting them go free without any repercussion whatsoever"
If the Captain sides with the rest of the party Tahni will not interfere any further. She will, however, bestow a curse on each of the slavers as a warning to others.
Highlight to display spoiler: {Ah, the age old question of what to do with prisoners. The cause of more disagreements in a party than anything else.
The Wiki was updated a while back to cover this sort of thing: "Evil creatures will not willingly reform unless specifically mentioned by the DM"... "Killing an evil creature is NOT an evil act and will have no consequences in game." }
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Tuesday September 18th, 2018 8:14:42 PM "I will not agree to the killing of those who surrendered... I'm on Bralin's side here. But if we want them to reform it would be best to show them a way how... give them a goal to pursue. Just sending them away on a ship will most likely take'm right back where they started. Give them a reason to be happy to reform... If only we had a Walker among us... "
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Tuesday September 18th, 2018 10:02:45 PM "Tahni - When did they tell us they will harm again? When did they tell us others will get hurt if they are released? How did I miss this?"
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC21/23vEvil; 77hp) Tuesday September 18th, 2018 10:41:10 PM
Zeoll is willing to compromise.
The freed folk who want to go, send them on the best ship.
The freed folk who want to join our fight, or who need more care, send them on the second best ship and let them stay in sight of the Lionfish for now.
The repentant slavers may go with the third ship, but we will watch them from afar, and they are enjoined to do no more harm in the Wold.
The unrepentant slavers have earned their miserable lives by surrendering. Let them be tied well and locked in the hold of the Lionfish. Let them earn redemption with hard labor in chains at our quarry at Comeri under the watchful eye of good Mistress Hych. In this way we deliver a just fate, and after ten years, those that live will be free if they pledge to leave the slave trade forever.
Tula will be especially warned about those halfling rogues!
That should take care of the situation here. Does everyone agree?
Zeoll gathers more bloodkin blood, to use with his magic of vengeance in the attack on the Blood Reaver to come.
===== ===== =====
As for the approach, Zeoll fears that all surprise has been lost. He sees every reason simply to take the Swan Boat to the docks, deal with the ships there, and then work inland to administer justice like unto the sort we have issued already today. He is against using a ruse in pretending to be a group of slavers. It just tastes foul to him even to pretend.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Tuesday September 18th, 2018 11:08:45 PM "They are lying when they say they are reformed, Rill" Tahni answers matter-o-factly "I have cast my Detect Thoughts spell and can see that quite clearly. Were you to look into their souls you would see the same"
Highlight to display spoiler: {"Nearly all of them say they're reformed characters, having seen which way the wind is blowing, but most of them are lying"}
DM Kathy Tuesday September 18th, 2018 11:25:58 PM Tahni asks how long it will take to reach the Blood Reaver, and learns that it will take a day or two.
Terser asks how long it's expected to stay in its current location. The Bloodkin aren't sure, but they estimate you have at least a week before the ship moves.
The rest of you are concerned with how to mete out justice, especially to the Bloodkin who have no intention of repenting.
Zeoll proposes a solution, and if you all agree to it, you can start transporting the would-be fighters and the broken former slaves to the Barracuda, and the handful of truly reformed Bloodkin to the Kestrel. Those that remain on the Hawk will simply use it to get to their various homes, though what happens to the ship after that is unclear. The Lionfish does not have a brig, but the prisoners can be restrained and placed in the hold.
And then comes the question of what you do next. Do you assault Market Island? Set sail for Comeri? Go directly to the Blood Reaver? Something else?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Tuesday September 18th, 2018 11:42:05 PM
Tahni nods to the Captain. It was a fair solution that would at least not see these criminals given free release to the Wold.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday September 19th, 2018 7:47:16 AM
Fang is also pleased with the suggestion and asks if there's anyplace where she can clean up.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Wednesday September 19th, 2018 11:46:29 AM "See, this is why we approach this as a team. I am good with this solution, and I forgot that we have a mine in Comeri.
"As for our next action, I do think we should secure this island first. It's likely this will result in more help at Comeri. A direct approach is best, and hopefully we will meet little resistance. Good idea to use the Swan Boat to not put the Lionfish at risk.
"Now, if you will excuse me for a moment, I need to pray for a couple of spells."
Rill hopes that others will not mind seeing to the slave/prisoner transfer logistics while he takes about 15 min to fill a couple of empty spell slots.
(I've kinda lost track of time here, but the Air Walk spells he cast at the start of combat would have lasted for 2.5 hours - I'm thinking we're beyond that.)
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Wednesday September 19th, 2018 5:23:50 PM "It does sound safest to clean up here first... although I wonder how long it will take the Blood Reaver to know what happened here and prepare for us to come? Would we lose the element of surprise. There's of course no interest in going ill-prepared for such a formidable foe...
While the Kraken is of course something to worry about, the little druid is quite exited to hear they will probably see the Kraken at the front row!
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Wednesday September 19th, 2018 5:57:32 PM
Bralin also nods at the wisdom of Zeoll's proposal.
He also agrees on Rill's suggestion to assault Market Island.
"Secure our rear, before turning for the Blood Reaver".
DM Kathy Wednesday September 19th, 2018 10:13:02 PM
Although Aexana frets a bit over losing the element of surprise, most of you would like to stay and attack Market Island, thus dealing a crushing blow to slavery in the Middle Seas. And, given that the Blood Reaver is over a days' sail away, it seems unlikely that a short delay will affect the element of surprise.
Accordingly, Rill sets about filling a couple of empty spell slots, while Fang wonders where she can clean up. Now that the fog has burned off, the day is warm enough that it's probably safe to just jump into the sea. If that doesn't appeal, you can use a bucket on a rope to bring water up on deck and sluice off with that.
The only questions that seem to remain are: when do you launch your attack? what is your (general) attack plan? do you want the help of the freed slaves who are keen to fight slavers?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Thursday September 20th, 2018 7:33:46 AM "Whichever approach or target we head for I think we should make sure that the former slaves are well clear of the area. Perhaps give them coordinates to Comeri and we meet them there afterwards?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 25/34, channel 4/5) Thursday September 20th, 2018 1:40:49 PM
Terser reiterates that any freedmen who have no homes to return to should be welcome on Comeri as well. All in all, Zeoll's solution ties things into a neat little package.
Should any of those men and women wish to help in the fight on Market Island, he is not inclined to deny them their chance. Should we wish to employ a ruse, they could go in with unlocked manacles and unleash a surprise assault, or act as a protectorate to the slaves on the island when the battle begins, in case any of the slavers see fit to execute slaves if we don't submit.
If we prefer a frontal assault, in which Terser is sure that they will triumph, then he will share his strength and the glory of battle and justice with the freedmen fighters.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday September 20th, 2018 4:08:23 PM "Tahni is right that we should not put the former slaves in harm's way. Those halfling rogues we faced would have diced them up, and one fireball could end them all rather quickly. But I do like the idea of bringing them in once we have secured the site to share in the victory and to help us get things there squared away. I imagine there will also be weapons and supplies on the island that all the ships will need before they venture out.
"I also favor a frontal assault to just get this over. Let us approach as Zeoll suggested in the swan boat so we do not put the Lionfish at risk."
Assuming all agree, we will use the swan boat (which I reskinned to look like a dragon boat by the way.) It's magical nature will be obvious, as it moves without oar or sail.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Thursday September 20th, 2018 6:46:27 PM
"Aye", Bralin agrees. "Their desire to fight is admirable, but their abilities may not be up to the task."
The dwarf readily loads himself onto the dragon boat, and prepares himself.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Thursday September 20th, 2018 7:12:57 PM
As a frontal assault is chosen Aex hands a Stone Skin potion to Leafy for some extra protection should things go dire. For now she stays with the boat - depending on what they will encounter she'll call for her Staff Treant again.
"Anyone else in need of some extra protection or a little boost here or there? "
As they go though, Aex turns invisible again with her ring.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday September 20th, 2018 7:55:52 PM
Fang decides to bath later if they're going right back into combat. She jumps in the boat with the rest of the group.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 54/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Thursday September 20th, 2018 9:33:24 PM
Jozhur offers that the freed slaves could at least operate ballistae from the relative safety offshore. He would certainly understand some of them insisting on aiding in the fight.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Thursday September 20th, 2018 9:35:01 PM
Zeoll takes stock of his spells and things used as he preps for another fight. He sounds his horn to refresh his Magic Circle.
He is ready to head to Market Island with his friends on the Swan Ship.
Current Magic Status: Currently on Zeoll: Water Breathe, Extended Darkvision, Extended Protection from Arrows, Extended Nondetection, Mage Armor, Taur's Try (+1 perception), Magic Circle, Water Walk.
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command x4 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat - SFF4, restoration - SFF4, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally Sorc Spells: 1: 4 of 8 used (mage armor x4) 2: 0 of 8 used 3: 0 of 7 used 4: 3 of 4 used (confusion x3) Other resources: Cape: 1 of 1 used Horns: 3 of 4 used SHIELD status: donned
DM Kathy Thursday September 20th, 2018 10:26:55 PM
You make your preparations and head for Market Island. You are understandably reluctant to let the newly-freed slaves mix it up with slavers, however eager they may be to exact some revenge. Reluctantly, they agree to limit their efforts to firing ballistae and freeing slaves once you guys give the all clear.
You assault Market Island. You do meet with resistance, but not as much as you faced against the four Bloodkin ships. Soon, you have more freed slaves, more captured slavers (or slave-users, at least), plus Rab and Drigka, the men who ran Market Island. You also have three new ships--the fourth having been sunk when she tried to flee.
You also locate a strongbox containing 2,000 gold pieces.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 54/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Friday September 21st, 2018 4:39:33 PM
Jozhur starts talking to the slaves, sorting out if any of them want to remain to make a home on Market Island. Whatever they're doing, they should have some leadership. He helps to sort out the best people to fill the roles and gets them started.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 25/34, channel 4/5) Friday September 21st, 2018 4:47:02 PM
Terser works on plans for fortifying the village and docks to be defensible should any slavers think to come back here.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Friday September 21st, 2018 7:35:53 PM
Fang finally takes a bath in the ocean. She takes her time about it, enjoying her ritual cleansing after battle. Once she's all clean she seeks out Zeoll and tries to learn more about what exactly the Black Lions are trying to accomplish and what these cultists everyone's so interested in are.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Saturday September 22nd, 2018 3:16:31 AM
Tahni starts a triage of the wounded, trying to help those closest to death first.
In terms of the gold "A lot of this is blood money. It's what these people suffered for. Even a small handful of it would help each freed slave here with their recovery. I can't take any"
Any share of the strongbox gold for Tahni will be distributed to as many slaves as she can. The items taken/collected she is fine to keep though.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Saturday September 22nd, 2018 9:00:02 AM
Zeoll helps sort the victims and villains on Market Island out. Same deal -- Freedfolk can depart or stay with us. Reformed slavers can leave. Unrepentent slavers get hard labor., After the mess on Market Island is cleaned up, Zeoll is happy to talk with Fang about what it all means.
"The Middle Seas are a wild place, my frriend, as you know. And Bonetown is at the hearrt of that maelstrrom. We made ourr home therre, and it has its charrms, forr all that the freebooter town is a center and refuge forr pirrates. But a forrmer memberr of ourr team helped us rrealize that a couple majorr pirrate grroups and a range of independents werre dealing in slaverry in a majorr way, and they werre welcome in Bonetown. We have not yet been strrong enough to rreforrm all the flaws of Bonetown, but we decided we could not let the slave trrade continue, anyway."
"So we set ourrselves the task of rrescuing slaves, and then of eliminating the slave trrade. We ended slaverry at a mine at Comerri, and we took overr the island and the mine. We will be sending slaverrs therre forr harrd laborr, we just decided. We have ended slaverry herre, at this little island called Marrket Island, which had serrved as a meeting place forr slaverrs engaging in theirr trrade."
"The two biggest slaverr pirrate grroups are the Bloodkin and the Elfbloods. The Bloodkin are open about it. The Elfbloods try to hide their involvement, but two of our forrmerr memberrs werre kept in serrvitude underr the Elfbloods. Ourr old frriend Kane (SteveK's PC) was an Elfblood slave."
"My old frriends, the Irron Drragons, rrecently came to us to tell us that Bloodkin had been worrking with evil cultists. They had been supplying slaves to the cult forr blood and worrse. Ourr job is to tackle the Bloodkin, then find out about the Cult, and stop it or even betterr stamp it out."
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Saturday September 22nd, 2018 9:27:04 AM
Bralin cleans his waraxe and armor, and finds Jozhur and Terser and lends his aid in organizing the groups.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Sunday September 23rd, 2018 1:55:25 PM "Wait, the Iron Dragons gave you this task? How did you get involved with them?" Fang suspects she knows but doesn't want to say it out loud. Could this be her chance to join the Dragons?
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Sunday September 23rd, 2018 4:59:10 PM
Aex is happy to see Market island crumble so fast. None the less as long as the leaders aren't gone you take out one place and they start again somewhere else. But in time... in time... they'll get to the end of this.
For now, Aex is happy to tend to the wounded with her herbs and ointments. When there are no more injured she checks the shallow waters for some sea weeds... with some luck she might get some rare weeds and use them for some new potions.
She overhears Zeoll as he brings the whole story to Fang. She looks a bit savage perhaps... dangerous... strong... yeah... she'll do just fine with the Black Lions. Not really the fighting type herself she wonders if her potions will have the same effect on this being as it has on the others...
DM Kathy Sunday September 23rd, 2018 9:40:48 PM Jozhur asks whether any of the slaves want to make a home on Market Island, but at the moment that doesn't look like much of an option. Rab and Dirkga made their living from slave auctions; they grew no crops and kept no herds. There are no farming tools or seeds or livestock on any of the ships. People could fish, of course, but supplies would be needed to really make this a going concern. Freed slaves who don't want to return home or fight slavers are probably better off going to Comeri.
Terser makes some fortifications, just in case people do eventually settle here.
Fang cleans up and asks for backstory, with Zeoll is able to give her.
Tahni and Aexana help the wounded, and Bralin helps sort people into groups. Aexana isn't able to find exotic seaweed, but the island is tropical and most of it is jungle. It might be worth a closer look, if her companions can spare the time.
It takes a lot of wrangling and back-and-forth, but at last you have the people and the ships sorted out.
Two ships are going to Comeri. One, going directly, will bring all of the unrepentant slavers, plus most of the freed slaves who want to go. With your approval, the ship will then belong to Comeri, which didn't have one when you left. The other ship will go the long way, dropping off freed slaves who want to return home before heading for Comeri. That ship, too, will belong to the island, unless you have other plans for it.
One ship is given to the freed slaves who want to fight slavers.
One ship is given to the former slavers who want to turn over a new leaf. Some just want to go home; the rest will run the ship as a cargo hauler or possibly a smuggler. Hey, they said they'd stop slaving, not that they'd become choirboys.
That leaves two ships for you guys to do what you like with. They are the two most heavily damaged--the Kestrel, from your fight, and one of the ships that was at Market Island, the Fortune's Tide.
That is, assuming the other arrangements are all right with everybody.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 25/34, channel 4/5) Monday September 24th, 2018 4:19:27 PM
Seeing that everything seems to be done on the island, Terser helps load the new ships with whatever supplies are to be had.
Now let's get after the Reaver before it decides to weigh anchor!
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Monday September 24th, 2018 4:24:04 PM
Rill agrees with Tahni - the 2,000 GP in the strong box on the island should be used to provision the former slaves. Assuming the rest of the party is in agreement, he will work with Tahni to apportion the gold amoung the slaves, with a portion also going the each ship's captain for provisioning.
And speaking of provisioning, as the place is searched Rill directs the former slaves to secure what goods they can from the islands stores to supply the ships. He also directs them to secure what weapons (and makeshift weapons) they can from what is here so they can guard themselves as they travel to Comeri and beyond.
Rill is at a bit of a loss on what to do with these extra ships as we look to engage the Blood Reaver. "Do we have enough crew to sail at least the Fortune's Tide? Maybe we should sail Kestral in as a throw away, with a Swan Boat as a back-up? Could we use it as a decoy?"
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Monday September 24th, 2018 5:42:56 PM
You notice Aex caries a smile on her lips. She's clearly lost in thoughts... Once a captain start to build a small fleet... isn't he bound to become admiral soon? Admiral Zeoll?? The little greenmage snickers as she observes how the fleet to given orders to sail this or that place.
Of course she agrees to hand over the spoils to those that need it most on the island.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Monday September 24th, 2018 6:48:21 PM
Bralin ponders.
"A second vessel as a decoy to split their forces is a sound plan. Mayhap we hide the third on the other side of the island, and pick it up later to sell or give to the next band of freed slaves."
The dwarf shrugs.
"I will defer, of course, to the Admiral".
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 54/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Monday September 24th, 2018 10:09:44 PM
Jozhur is fine with the plan, though he offers the idea of giving one of the damaged ships to the slavers. Leave them here to fix it and get off the island themselves.
He does what he can to make sure the freed slaves are prepared for their voyages. Are there enough freed slaves to sail an extra vessel or two to Comeri and keep it there for us?
DM Kathy Monday September 24th, 2018 10:19:38 PM Terser and Rill help the crews provision the ships. Divided four ways, there aren't a lot of supplies to go around, but the gold will help them buy what they need.
Rill suggests taking one of the ships along to act as a decoy, an idea that Jozhur finds interesting. Perhaps the other ship can simply be left here to collect later.
As for sailing a third ship to Comeri, there are enough freed slaves to do it, but it would mean taking men away from the ship transporting the unrepentant slavers to their hard labor. The sailors on that ship have to do double-duty as jailers, and reducing their numbers may not be a good idea.
The best option, then, seems to be to leave the Kestrel here at Market Island, and to sail the Fortune's Tide with a skeleton crew from the Lionfish, so I'll assume that's what you're doing unless somebody says otherwise.
It is late in the day by the time you start off, but you know where you're headed and Tula is confident she can get you there.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Monday September 24th, 2018 10:46:35 PM
Captain Zeoll (NOT Admiral, heh!) agrees with the consensus. Leave the Kestral beached at Market Island. Maybe we'll repair her later. The rest of the disposition seems good to him too.
He has a word with the freed folk taking the prisoners to Comeri. "Now is the time to show that you arre betterr than these foul slaverrs. Trreat them betterr than they trreated you. They will be worrking at harrd laborr forr many yearrs, and some of you will be theirr guarrds. They have not earrned yourr love, but they arre living beings, so trreat them as the Gods of the Wold would want you to."
He is even clearer: Make sure they have enough food, clothing, and shelter. Do not beat them for no reason, and do not break bones or torture them. Do not treat them with cruelty and hatred. But also do not trust them. Watch them always, and be vigilant.
Then it is time to sail to the Bloodkin headquarters ship. How long will the voyage take?
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d100=31 ; Tuesday September 25th, 2018 1:31:22 AM
Preparatory to our mission, Rill will cast Divination, asking "What is the most fearsome opponent we will face in our assault on the Blood Reaver?" (Rolled 31 - success!)
Then he will cast Commune, asking "In our assault on the Blood Reaver,
-Are we likely to be attacked with magical fire? -Are we likely to be attacked with lightning? -Are we likely to be attacked with acid? -Are we likely to be attacked with magical cold? -Is Captain Dekkar Lifebb undead? -Are we likely to be attacked by undead other than Captain Dekkar Lifebb? -Are we likely to be attacked by an outsider? -Are those on the Blood Reaver likely to be protected against magical fire? -Is there cleric on the Blood Reaver? -Is there mage or sorcerer on the Blood Reaver ? -Are there slaves aboard the Blood Reaver ? -Are any of the Death Dragons aboard the Blood Reaver? -Do those on the Blood Reaver expect our assault? -Are we likely to be attacked on our journey to the Blood Reaver, other than by the kraken? -Are there guardian creatures in the water around the Blood Reaver in addition to the kraken?"
He will share the results of these spells with the party.
::whew::
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Tuesday September 25th, 2018 7:31:02 AM
Tahni continues caring for any who need it right up until the moment the crew departs.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 25/34, channel 4/5) d100=29 Tuesday September 25th, 2018 5:20:27 PM
Terser uses his own divination spell to search for advance knowledge of their foes. d100 - 29 Success
Are there slavers aboard the Blood Reaver that could be convinced to turn against the Bloodkin/Death Dragons? If there are some who are truly repentant now, perhaps they could enlist their aid in overthrowing the cult, or at least get some inside info prior to fighting.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Tuesday September 25th, 2018 6:29:37 PM
Bralin nods to himself as the freed slaves depart on their new vessels.
A good day, he muses.
Back aboard the Lionfish, the dwarf patiently awaits the results of the various divinations.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Tuesday September 25th, 2018 6:58:38 PM
Aex just observes for now. There isn't enough time to go weed hunting. Like Bralin, Aex waits for the divine guidance... quite handy... almost too easy...
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday September 25th, 2018 8:21:21 PM
Fang heads below deck and prepares for the upcoming battle.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Tuesday September 25th, 2018 9:33:29 PM
Zeoll also makes sure that he gathers any records he can find before the group leaves Market Island. He will use these in the future to find and free more slaves!
The Blood Reaver
DM Kathy Tuesday September 25th, 2018 10:43:52 PM
[Everybody take 48,000 XP for the previous scene.]
You leave the Kestrel at Market Island. You have to leave her anchored, not beached, as the beach on the far side is pretty much entirely made of sharp rocks. Zeoll takes the sales records, and warns the freed slaves not to be needlessly cruel to their charges.
Divinations are cast. Rill casts Divination, asking What is the most fearsome opponent we will face in our assault on the Blood Reaver?. With the usual caveats that your DM is not a god, the reply is Aaeuukk the Tempest.
Then he casts Commune, and gets the following responses:
-Are we likely to be attacked with magical fire? No -Are we likely to be attacked with lightning? No -Are we likely to be attacked with acid? No -Are we likely to be attacked with magical cold? No -Is Captain Dekkar Lifebb undead? No -Are we likely to be attacked by undead other than Captain Dekkar Lifebb? No -Are we likely to be attacked by an outsider? No -Are those on the Blood Reaver likely to be protected against magical fire? No -Is there cleric on the Blood Reaver? Yes -Is there mage or sorcerer on the Blood Reaver ? No -Are there slaves aboard the Blood Reaver ? Yes -Are any of the Death Dragons aboard the Blood Reaver? No -Do those on the Blood Reaver expect our assault? Not yet -Are we likely to be attacked on our journey to the Blood Reaver, other than by the kraken? No -Are there guardian creatures in the water around the Blood Reaver in addition to the kraken? No
You set off on your journey. You sail through the night, navigating by the stars. The sun comes up on a clear day that's rather cooler than recent ones. Autumn is coming.
Tula tells you that you will reach your destination sometime tomorrow morning.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Wednesday September 26th, 2018 9:45:45 AM
Assuming Rill shares his learnings, Tahni gives a nod of approval to him as well as a smile "That was a very thorough list. I'm not sure we could be any better informed"
DM Kathy Wednesday September 26th, 2018 12:03:20 PM
[Oh, shoot. I was afraid I was going to do this.]
Terser asks: Are there slavers aboard the Blood Reaver that could be convinced to turn against the Bloodkin/Death Dragons?
His response: It would seem unlikely.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Wednesday September 26th, 2018 6:01:11 PM
Rill relates what he learned.
"I've gotten a little lost in the battle plans. We now have an idea of what we aren't likely to face, but this is gonna be a tough fight. I sure want to start with everyone covered by Water Walk and Water Breathing as a precaution.
"We talked about using the Kestral as a throw-away decoy and hopping in a Swan Boat. With Aaeuukk the Tempest (I assume that's the Kraken), I'm pretty sure anything in the water is going to be a throw away, so a Swan Boat will suffer the same fate. We don't want the Lionfish anywhere near there.
"I have a Teleport and a Dimension Door. Teleport has a tiny chance of error - which would mess us up. Either way, I can't carry everyone in one shot. Thoughts?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 25/34, channel 4/5) Wednesday September 26th, 2018 6:01:21 PM No Worries - thanks!
Well shoot. Looks like no help from that quarter. I guess you have to be somewhat loyal to be stationed on home base. Sounds like standard tactics then. Surprise them as much as we can, capture someone with information, and protect the slaves.
Terser refreshes his Mind Blank for the day and thinks about sharpening his glaive, though he hasn't had to do that since he got his first one back in the Scab.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 25/34, channel 4/5) Wednesday September 26th, 2018 6:03:09 PM Might it be a good idea to come in underwater and take out the kraken before it can come into the fight?
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Wednesday September 26th, 2018 6:51:32 PM
Bralin muses.
"If we can free ourselves to combat either the Blood Reaver OR the Kraken, and then engage the other, we would have great advantage."
He asks Rill, "What is the range of your spells? If a group can appear directly on the Blood Reaver, we should be able to create enough of a disturbance to allow the rest time to advance."
He ponders some more. "Can we render the Swan Boat invisible?"
"Else, approach from below, as Terser suggests, seems sound."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday September 26th, 2018 7:34:15 PM
Fang spends a good portion of the journey trying not to squee like a little girl. They're testing to become dragons! And they let her into the group! She might become a dragon!
As for the planning, she has no experience in aquatic combat. I have a ring of water walking. Not sure if I'll be any good fighting a giant sea monster underwater. If we all get on the enemies ship then will we be safe from the Kraken? It can't sink the ship we're on if it's bosses are all on it too."
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 54/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Wednesday September 26th, 2018 9:17:04 PM
"A tempest kraken, huh. This should be fun.". Jozhur agrees they should be prepared as possible. Water walk and water breathing would be good in case they get pulled under.
DM Kathy Wednesday September 26th, 2018 10:16:38 PM
You discuss possibilities, including Teleport, Water Walk, Water Breathing, invisibility, and using the Kestrel and/or Swan Boat as decoys. A teensy problem with this last one is that the Kestrel is back at Market Island; you'd have to settle for Fortune's Tide. But that's neither here nor there.
[Also, how long does the Swan Boat last? Or do you have another feather?]
There has been discussion, but no resolution. Fortunately, you still have the rest of the day, and all night, to prepare.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Wednesday September 26th, 2018 10:53:19 PM
Zeoll loves the idea of approaching from below, taking out the Kraken, and then dealing with the slaver ship.
Can we use that animal shapes spell that made us all seagulls to let us all take the form of some sea creature with a nice swim speed? We approach as a school of giant gar or giant squids or whatever, then change back when we see the kraken, then take it out. Or maybe not even change back. Nine or ten or so giant squids with our underlying magic buffs and items and mage armors and such would likely take it out in that form! Especially with all of us tentacling on and constricting!
Also, Zeoll thinks that maybe it will be susceptible to his enchantments. Confusion especially. Command spells may work too, since Zeoll knows Aquan.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d20+18=20 ; Thursday September 27th, 2018 6:44:47 AM "Well, I always create a Tishe's Water Garment for myself every morning. I have 5 spares that grant water breathing. If noone takes them they just go to waste. Regardless of the approach it wouldn't hurt to wear one just in case"
She tries to think abut any rumours or tales about the Kracken, hoping there may be a weakness there somewhere
--------------- OOC: The Tishe's Garment grants waterbreathing (as the spell), and takes up the Chest slot which I think almost everyone has free!
Knowl Nature: 20 - to recall any weaknesses of the kracken
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday September 27th, 2018 1:29:39 PM
[The Swan Boat lasts for 24 hours. The previous one should be gone. But I do have another for use - two actually.]
"Thanks for the offer of the garment Tahni - that was good thinking. Certainly, anyone that cannot cast Water Breathing should claim one. I would expect their cleric on board to hit us with Dispel Magic. My thought was to hit the Kraken with Water Walk, forcing it up onto the surface of the water. As for an underwater approach, I'm gonna sink like a rock in this armor. I don't swim well."
[I started an email thread on possible tactics.]
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Thursday September 27th, 2018 5:15:11 PM
In response to Zeoll, Aex confirms she can use the Animal Shape as soon as she's meditated.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 25/34, channel 4/5) d20+7=26 ; Thursday September 27th, 2018 6:33:45 PM
Terser also dredges his mind for information regarding the kraken and things that may be its prey and predators. knowledge nature 26
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Thursday September 27th, 2018 6:52:42 PM
Bralin nods at Tahni. He will take a Water Garment.
"If not on the sea or below it, mayhap above it?" he comments. Fly onto the Blood Reaver as birds, change form and attack. We will have bypassed the Kraken, and can deal with it secondly."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday September 27th, 2018 7:19:59 PM
Fang can think of nothing else to contribute to the battle prep. She really, really needs to learn more about ship-to-ship combat. This'll be a learning experience.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+6=14 ; d20+6=18 ; d20+7=12 ; Thursday September 27th, 2018 7:29:56 PM
Rill also tries to see what he knows about a kraken, or more specifically about one called Aaeuukk the Tempest.
Knowledge Arcana 14 Knowledge History 18 Knowledge Religion 12 (maybe it's a god among kraken)
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 54/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Thursday September 27th, 2018 9:57:31 PM
Jozhur agrees with Bralin. "Keep the Lionfish out of danger. I doubt the Kraken will attack the Blood Reaver. We could use the ballistae on one of the captured ships, but the presence of the Kraken will put anyone remaining on board in great danger." He chuckles a bit at the thought of attacking a kraken as a group of giant squid.
DM Kathy Thursday September 27th, 2018 10:39:42 PM
You continue discussing strategies. Maybe you could shift into birds and bypass the kraken altogether.
Rill tries to think of what he knows about kraken, but comes up blank. They're big, and squid-like, but you're a little short on specifics.
[It is a Knowledge Arcana check to find out about it. Your DC is 28.]
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32vEvil; 77hp) Thursday September 27th, 2018 11:43:48 PM
Zeoll smiles and says in Dwarvish, "We'll have a Kraken good time!" In Dwarvish, the Kraken / crackin' pun works better.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Friday September 28th, 2018 3:45:52 AM
Tahni has a deeper think about the Kraken.
"Ah, Zeoll. You're kraken me up" The bad pun just rolls off the tongue "Seriously though, any idea on how they may be controlling it? Magical means? Trained it?"
------------------ Knowl Arcana: 30 (Take 10)
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Friday September 28th, 2018 3:43:25 PM "Hey, quit squidding around. I have an inkling that this is going to be a tough fight."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Friday September 28th, 2018 7:53:20 PM
Fang ignores the punful banter and goes to meditate and pray in preparation for battle.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 54/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Friday September 28th, 2018 10:04:46 PM
"Oh my." Jozhur shakes his head and walks away from the conversation.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Saturday September 29th, 2018 8:46:48 AM
Bralin endures the wordplay stoically.
Conversations continue in the background as plans are made.
But for now, he must wait for the Lionfish to near their foe.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 25/34, channel 4/5) Sunday September 30th, 2018 7:50:08 AM
Terser can't decide whether removing the means of control and letting it do as it will our killing it while it's controlled would be the better option. Probably depends on just how big and what the nature of the beast is.
DM Kathy Sunday September 30th, 2018 8:01:02 PM
Although there is still time to discuss strategy, you are confident in your ability to meet this new challenge. So you spend a convivial evening laughing and joking.
The sun rises to clear skies, although the air is somewhat cooler than it was just a month ago. You have time to prepare new spells, but Tula warns that you are getting closer to the location of the Blood Reaver, and there's no telling how far the kraken ranges.
You therefore move to the Fortune's Tide, sailed by a skeleton crew, and leave the Lionfish behind.
And not a moment too soon. Mere moments after Fortune's Tide gets underway, several tentacles come bursting out of the water to land on the deck. The kraken does not seem to be targeting you or the sailors; instead, it seems to be trying to grab the ship itself!
[I'm going to try to do this fight without a map. The kraken is Gargantuan in size; right now, all you can see are four tentacles. Keep in mind that a creature this size often has a reach to match, so be careful of provoking.]
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Sunday September 30th, 2018 9:30:49 PM
Fang uses her rod to cast quickened extended divine favor and touches her weapon to give it touch of good.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Monday October 1st, 2018 11:42:25 AM "Ack - the creature's upon us afore I was ready! Does anyone know if this thing is evil or even intelligent?" So far, this is not going according to the plan in his head.
Rill figures that since all we can see is four tentacles, it should not be able to see those of us on the deck just yet. Rill will use a rod to cast a quickened Water Walk on himself and anyone near him(?), and will then cast Freedom of Movement on himself. (Since we are doing this without a map, Rill will either move 5' or use Dimensional Hop to get out of reach if needed. Please let me know if we actually can see it looking at us and Concentration Checks were needed to avoid provoking.)
-------------------------------- Spells Running: Status on all (extended from the night before), Longstrider (extended from the night before), Deathwatch, Tongues, Endure Elements
Spells/abilities available, * = cast/used: 0 (DC18): Create Water, Guidance, Detect Magic, Detect Posion 1 (DC19): Longstrider (D), Bless, Command, Detect Evil, Greater Disrupt Undead, Protection from Evil, Shield of Faith 2 (DC20): See Invisible (D), Augury, Delay Posion, Remove Paralysis, Resist Energy, Status, Spiritual Weapon 3 (DC21): Divination (D), Blindness/Deafness, Dispel Magic, Prayer, Prayer, Water Breathing, Water Walk* 4 (DC22): Dimension Door (D), Air Walk, Air Walk, Freedom of Movement*, Freedom of Movement, Summon Monster IV, Water Walk (Heightened) 5 (DC23): Dimension Door (D), Banish Immortal, Breath of Life, Flame Strike, Flame Strike, Insect Plague 6 (DC24): Teleport (D), Blade Barrier, Heal, Heal, Harm 7 (DC25): Teleport (D), Destruction, Holy Word, Destruction 8 (DC26): Moment of Prescience (D), Holy Aura, Summon Monster VIII
Abilities/Items Agile Feet (Su) 11/day - Dim. Hop (Sp) 150'/day - Greater Insight (Sp) 2/day - Channel Energy (Su) 5/day - Obscuring Mist (Item) 2/day - Deathwatch (Item) Continuous Eagle's Splendor (Item) 1/day - Faerie Fire (Tattoo) - 3/day - MM Extend, Lesser (Item) - 6/day - MM Silent, Lesser (Item) - 3/day - MM Quicken, Lesser (Item) - 3/day - Endure Elements (Item) Tongues (class)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 200/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 25/34, channel 4/5) d20+22=23 ; Monday October 1st, 2018 4:11:07 PM
Terser wonders if this beast can even see him. Where are the eyes on this thing?
Still, it's trying to capsize them at least, so he will step up to hack away at the closest tentacle. He's not ready for the rocking on the boat though, and his swing goes wild. Nat 1
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Monday October 1st, 2018 6:14:43 PM
Wow this happened way too soon, Aex thinks as she watches the Fortune's Tide being sunk by the Kraken. She longed to see it but now... she's not so fond of that Kraken thing any more.
She waits to use any spells as right now she does not know yet what to use best against the creature. Perhaps an underwater peak could be interesting but then she has to change shapes yet again.
Leafy too can't do much good so he also waits. The moment the Kraken casts a hunting eye on the Lionfish he'll try to defend. .
------------------------------------------------ ACTIVE SPELLS:
------------------------------------------------ POTION INVENTORY: see char sheet ------------------------------------------------ SPELL LIST ( * = cast / A = AIR domain CL+4 DC+2 / ALL ELSE CL-2 / E = EVOCATION DC+1): ------------------------------------------------ 4 x Lvl 0: Flare (E), Light (E), Detect Magic, Know Direction 6 x Lvl 1: Create Water, Detect animals or plants, Produce Flame (E), Entangle, Faerie Fire (E), Cure Light Wounds + Obscuring Mist 6 x Lvl 2: Soften Earth and Stone, Flaming Sphere (E), Warp Wood, Wood Shape, Gust of Wind (E+A), Animal Trance + Fog Cloud 6 x Lvl 3: Call Lightning (E+A), Water Breathing, Wind Wall (E+A), Daylight (E), Sleet Storm, Quench + Call Lightning (E+A) 5 x Lvl 4: Ball Lightning (E+A), Flame Strike (E), Control Water, Cure Serious Wounds, Ice Storm + Sleet Storm 5 x Lvl 5: Transmute rock to mud, Move Earth, Control Winds (A), Call Lightning Storm (E+A), Wall of Fire (E) + Ice Storm (E) 4 x Lvl 6: Wall of Stone, Bull's Strenght Mass, Greater Dispel Magic + Control Winds (A) 3 x Lvl 7: Sunbeam (E), Heal, Heal + Control Weather 1 x Lvl 8: Animal Shapes + Whirlwind (E+A) ------------------------------------------------ 1/day: Dancing Lights, Ghost Sound, Prestidigitation, Speak With Animals. 10/day: Storm Burst 1d6+6 1/day: Lightning Lord (13 bolts) 13/rounds: Wooden Fist +7 damage 13/rounds: Bramble Armor 1d6+7 ----------------------------------------------
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Water walk d20+20=23 ; 3d10+17=39 ; d6=5 ; Monday October 1st, 2018 6:26:54 PM Sooner than expected
Bralin receives Rill's Water Walk spell, and rushes to one side of the vessel while drawing his axe. Reaching the nearest tentacle, he strikes, hard.
--- Move to tentacle while drawing axe. Note - Spring Attack Feat avoids AoO
Power Attack, Imp Vit Strk hits ac 23 for 44 hp damage (5 cold).
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d20+17=22 ; Monday October 1st, 2018 9:04:21 PM
Tahni is surprised by the sudden appearance of the beast. Standing by the helm she defensively casts an Antilife Shell. Any chance of keeping the ship under control will rely on having access to it.
Standard: Defensively cast AntiLife Shell. Concentration check vs DC27: Autopass. SR check: 22.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d20+35=48 ; Monday October 1st, 2018 9:05:28 PM OOC: Tahni's Tishe's Weave Elements Craft check for the day: 48. 3 powers. Nice
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+19=24 ; d20+11=23 ; d6=4 ; Monday October 1st, 2018 9:09:32 PM
Just as he suspected, there goes their plans, and their opportunity to cast spells before combat.
Jozhur received Rill's water walk spell (?), And closes with the nearest tentacle, stabbing at it with his sword. His shadow also closes and tries to touch the kraken.
----------------- Jozhur has +4 AC vs opportunity attacks should he provoke
His attack likely misses with a 24. Jozhur's shadow his touch AC 23 for 4 strength damage
DM Kathy d20+38=56 ; d20+24=34 ; d20+24=33 ; d20+24=29 ; d20+24=37 ; d8+5=9 ; d20+38=53 ; d8=2 ; d20+38=49 ; d20+26=37 ; 2d6+10=17 ; Monday October 1st, 2018 9:40:49 PM Fang casts spells to give herself her god's favor and align her weapon to Good.
Rill casts Freedom of Movement and Water Walk. He surmises--correctly, at least for this round--that the creature cannot see people on the ship and thus cannot make opportunity attacks.
Terser, Bralin, and Jozhur attack tentacles, but all three miss. Jozhur's shadow has better luck.
Aexana and Leafy wait.
Tahni protects herself with an Antilife Shell.
The tentacles tighten around Fortune's Tide. The man at the helm does his best, but he cannot escape. The ship is held fast.
The kraken comes closer to the surface, and now you can all see it--impossibly huge and squid-like, with a total of eight tentacles and two longer appendages you tentatively label "arms." It also has a wicked-looking beak, which is beginning to chew on the hull of Fortune's Tide.
The four tentacles that are not grappling the ship come up to attack! They target Terser, Bralin, Jozhur, and one of the hapless sailors scrambling for cover. Terser it hit! He takes 9 damage and is grappled. Jozhur is hit! He takes 7 damage and is grappled. Bralin's armor is enough to protect him. The sailor is also hit and grappled.
The two arms attack! One of them targets Tahni and is repelled by her Antilife Shell. The other targets Rill and hits! Rill takes 17 damage and is not grappled, thanks to his Freedom of Movement.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30; 77hp) d20+2=22 d20+7=26 Monday October 1st, 2018 11:49:36 PM
If the kindly DM allows Zeoll two rounds of actions, then round one is to cast Nemesis Insight to gain a bonus against Bloodkin.
Second (or only) round is to reach out to try to touch it.
First, Zeoll becomes invisible (move action). Then he takes a five ft step to get to it if needed. Then he uses his standard action to touch it. Sorcerer Fey Bloodline Laughing Touch: Laughing Touch (Sp): At 1st level, you can cause a creature to burst out laughing for 1 round as a melee touch attack. A laughing creature can only take a move action but can defend itself normally. Once a creature has been affected by laughing touch, it is immune to its effects for 24 hours.
Zeoll's touch attack vs the Kraken, and being invisible, denies the monster its dex bonus, with a +2 from the voices in his head, hits touch AC 26 That should be enough to deprive it of all actions for a round.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141/144 d6+5=8 ; d4=3 ; d20+12=18 ; d20+12=24 ; d4=3 ; Tuesday October 2nd, 2018 12:04:35 AM
There's a lot going on right now. People are grappled and the ship is in real trouble. Fortunately those caught look ok so far so the bigger problem is the ship.
Tahni draws out her quicken rod and let's the magic happen, casing a Spectral Hand and then two touch spells in quick succession.
----------------------- I'm hoping that Tahni's Arcana check on 28th revealed some info on krakens..
Free action: Retrieve Quicken Rod from Glove of Storing Swift action: Cast Spectral Hand. Tahni takes 3 pts damage. Standard action: Use Mystic Theurge Spell Synthesis to cast 2 spells... -- Cast Touch of Gracelessness. Hit Touch AC18. Kraken to make Fort Save vs DC22. Fail=8pts Dex penalty. Pass=4pts Dex penalty. -- Cast Calcific Touch. Hit Touch AC24. Kraken to make Fort Save vs DC26. Fail=3pts Dex Damage and slowed. Pass=3pts Dex damage.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Tuesday October 2nd, 2018 12:21:29 AM
Before anyone tries to free him, Jozhur is wearing a ring of freedom of movement.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34/34, channel 5/5) d20+22=41 ; d20+22=35 ; d20+17=23 ; d20+12=21 ; 4d10+11=36 ; d10+11=17 ; Tuesday October 2nd, 2018 1:48:05 PM thanks, joz! I was about to come spell you
Terser takes the hit, brushing off some from his hardiness and regenerating another almost instantly. (DR1, regen1). Then he uses his innate power to slip free of the tentacle and goes after the one grappling the sailor. Between his readiness and Tahni's spells, he's better able to hit this time.
Attack vs AC41 (crit confirm vs AC35) - 36 damage, additional 17 for the crit 2nd: 23 and 3rd: 21 probably miss
Liberation used: 1/7
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+27=46 ; d20+19=38 ; Tuesday October 2nd, 2018 2:25:27 PM "Awright you undercooked hunk of calamari - let's see if we can remedy that."
Rill, was just attacked with an unsuccessful attempt to grapple, so the creature should be in range to touch. Rill casts a spontaneous Plane Shift spell, casting on the defensive successfully. If for some reason it is not in range, Rill will move or use Dimensional Hop to get to it.
(The Kraken must make a DC 23 Will save or be transported to the elemental plane of fire.) ------------------------------------- Casting on the defensive - DC is 15+10=25 Concentration Roll for Plane Shift is d20+15+8+4=46 - success! If the Kraken has Spell Resistance, my roll is d20+15+4=38
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+12=21 ; Tuesday October 2nd, 2018 3:49:37 PM
Oops. Forgot to roll a touch attack on the Kraken.
Hits touch AC 21.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 110/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+11=13 ; d6=2 ; d20+17=37 ; d20+17=33 ; d20+17=35 ; d20+17=30 ; d20+11=31 ; d20+11=17 ; d6+3=7 ; d6+3=9 ; 2d6=8 ; d6+3=4 ; 2d6=3 ; 2d6=5 ; d6+2=3 ; Tuesday October 2nd, 2018 5:39:58 PM
Jozhur winces as he is struck by the tentacle, but is thankful for his ring, which has saved his bacon many a time. Jozhur sees Rill is trying to give the squid some cheese, but he strikes back just in case, trying to hack some chunks from the tentacle as his shadow drains a little more of it's strength.
------------------------------------------------- Shadow's attack hits touch AC 13: 2 strength damage
Full hasted two weapon attack: First hits with natural 20, hopefully confirmed with a 33: 16 damage (7 if no crit), 8 more if evil
Haste attack hits AC 35: 4 damage plus 3 if evil
Pretty sure off hand attack misses.
Second main hand attack hits with a natural 20 (no crit): 3 damage plus 5 if evil
Boots of haste used: 1/10 Ring of Freedom of Movement
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Water walk d20+23=30 ; d20+18=38 ; d20+18=32 ; d20+13=29 ; d10+11=20 ; d10+11=20 ; d10+11=15 ; d10+11=14 ; d10+11=14 ; d6=6 ; d6=4 ; d6=6 ; Tuesday October 2nd, 2018 5:56:30 PM
His axe ricochets off the armored tentacle, and Bralin fumes.
Redirecting the kraken's attack with his shield, the dwarf launches a barrage of attacks on the creature (assuming its still here).
---- Full attack on kraken. Atk 1 hits ac 30 for 26 hp damage Atk 2 Nat 20, crit threat hits ac 32 for either 24 (non-crit) or 53 (crit) hp damage Atk3 hits ac 29 for 20 hp damage
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 d20+2=5 ; d20+10=18 ; Tuesday October 2nd, 2018 6:39:23 PM
Assuming Leafy too benefits from the Water Walk spell, Aex gives him a Stoneskin potion. Then he jumps overboard and rushes towards the Kraken (not sure if he'll get there in just one turn)
Aex casts Speak With Animals on herself and tries to address the Kraken:
"Please stop... this is pointless... who are you fighthing for mighty Kraken?! I'm sure a mighty sealord such as yourself is not just following orders so please... tell us what we have done that deserves your wrath... Let's talk and see if we can help you... " (diplomacy 5 / handle animal 18)
Aex is unsure if she has angered the Kraken even more with her weak diplomatic skills...
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+32=51 ; d10=10 ; d10=2 ; d10+17=27 ; Tuesday October 2nd, 2018 7:52:46 PM
Fang taps her boots together, activating them, flies into a rage, and charges at the tentacle still holding the luckless sailor, carving deep into it.
51 to hit, 39 damage
(correction: It was supposed to be inspiring word. I seem to have gotten many things confused while making the char XD
Buff tracker in my spell list sheet).
DM Kathy d20+21=41 ; d20+21=30 ; d20+15=18 ; d20+15=32 ; Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 12:17:59 AM Zeoll turns invisible, uses his Nemisis Insight, and tries to use his Laughing Touch ability. The kraken is not affected.
[My apologies; I didn't see Tahni's Knowledge check from two days ago.]
Tahni knows that the kraken is immune to poison, cold, and mind-affecting. It does not have Damage Reduction or Spell Resistance. She casts a Spectral Hand, then uses it to deliver two touch spells. The kraken makes both its saves.
Terser slips free of the grappling tentacle and moves to free the sailor, drawing first blood against the beast with a critical hit!
Casting defensively, Rill tries to send the kraken to another plane! However, the kraken makes its save.
Jozhur also scores a critical hit! The kraken does appear to be evil; it takes the extra damage.
Bralin also scores a critical hit! His other two attacks miss, however.
Fang inflicts more damage.
Aeana gives Leafy a Stoneskin potion and sends him off after the kraken. She casts Speak with Animals and tries to talk to the kraken. It is not an animal. It does, however, speak Common. "I protect my friend," it says in a voice loud enough to shake the Fortune's Tide.
After that, however, it lets go of the ship. A pitch-black cloud of ink appears where the kraken used to be.
The ink is poisonous, but I believe the only one in contact with the water is Leafy. He needs to make a Fort save, DC 29.
And Leafy may not be the only one who needs to worry. During the time it had hold of Fortune's Tide, the kraken inflicted damage, some below the waterline. She may sink into the ink cloud if quick action isn't taken!
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30; 77hp) Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 12:23:45 AM
Zeoll sighs and determines to press on.
He blows his Horn of Goodness, honking happily to raise his defenses against evil.
Current Magic Status: Currently on Zeoll: Water Breathe, Extended Darkvision, Extended Protection from Arrows, Extended Nondetection, Mage Armor, Taur's Try (+1 perception), Magic Circle, Water Walk.
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command x4 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat - SFF4, restoration - SFF4, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally Sorc Spells: 1: 4 of 8 used (mage armor x4) 2: 0 of 8 used 3: 0 of 7 used 4: 3 of 4 used (confusion x3) Other resources: Cape: 1 of 1 used Horns: 4 of 4 used SHIELD status: donned
Invis: used 1 Laugh Touch: used 1
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 3:24:03 PM
(I'm a little fuzzy on the details. Are we in sight of the Blood Reaver? If so, how far away is it now?
I believe the Kestral was going to be our throw-away ship, as the Fortune's Tide was still in pretty good shape. Certainly if the Kestral was not seaworthy, we'd be on the Fortune's Tide.
Since this was going to be a throw away ship, we'd have the party crew the ship if possible. If not, how many crew were on board in addition to the party that we now need to rescue? Also, I'm not clear how many people were included in the Water Walk spell Rill cast - his hope was to include everyone on the ship if possible, including our walking thornbush.)
Rill looks around as the ship we are on begins to sink. "Curses! Anyone not able to walk on water, come near and we'll remedy that. That water has an ill look to it. Aex or Tahni - did you memorize Water Walk? If not, I have a scroll. Hey Aex - can you fix the ship?" If needed, Rill will read a Water Walk to cover anyone else.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34/34, channel 5/5) Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 4:32:43 PM
Obviously, this attack was meant to hinder their approach and prepare the Blood Reaver for their assault, else the creature would not have left so quickly. He's glad he thought not to pull the big guns yet. However, there's still work to be done.
He moves to the bilge pumps and begins working them furiously, trying to keep the boat afloat until patches can be made or the decision to abandon it comes.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 d20+13=25 ; Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 6:22:46 PM
Aex takes Rill's cue and changes shape to an eagle once more (free action). She flies towards the Fortine's Tide and casts Woodshape in order to mend a number of holes in the ship.
Leafy fails his Fort save vs the troubled water.. (25)
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Water walk Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 6:47:21 PM
Bralin looks about, at a loss what to do.
Terser seems to be doing something he can help with.
The dwarf joins his fellow at the bilge pumps.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 6:50:52 PM
Fang rushes below decks to bail water only to see Terser operating some machine. "What do I do to help?" she half asks half demands of the Dwarf.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141/144 Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 9:06:35 PM
Tahni maintains her position near the helm. The kraken may still be lurking just below the water's surface and she still wanted to guard the ship's wheel with her Antilife shell.
"Sorry Rill. No water walk here. I've got wind walk though if need be."
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 110/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+13=30 ; Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 9:16:38 PM
With the immediate threat gone, Jozhur retrieves his Bottle of Air and puts it in his glove of storing, just in case. Next, he heads below deck to assess the damage and begin repairs if plausible.
------------------ Profession sailor:30
Water walk from Rill (?) Boots of haste used: 1/10
DM Kathy Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 11:21:40 PM
Some clarifications: you are not yet in sight of the Blood Reaver. You do not have the Kestrel with you; you left it at Market Island. The ships you have available to you are the Fortune's Tide and the Lionfish. Plus, obviously, any Swan Boats you want to use.
I was honestly a little fuzzy on what you guys wanted to do. You discussed some potential plans, then started joking around, so I figured you were bored and I needed to move things along. I had to put together what I thought was your plan based on your conversation. I may have made some incorrect assumptions.
For example, I assumed you wouldn't want to crew Fortune's Tide yourselves, because you'd be too busy fighting. I also assumed you wouldn't want to risk Tula or other key crew members in the fight, so you'd use a skeleton crew of other sailors. You currently have five crew onboard.
The battle over, Zeoll blows his Horn of Goodness.
Terser and Bralin man the pumps. Fang assists, bailing by hand.
Rill prepares a scroll to cast Water Walk on those who still might need it. Water Walk will, of course, prevent people from drowning, but the ink cloud is already up to the surface of the water, so anyone walking atop the water could be exposed--as Leafy was.
Speaking of Leafy, he takes a point of Strength damage and is nauseated. He needs to make another DC 29 Fort save. Aexana uses a Woodshape spell to fix the larger holes in the ship.
Tahni stays near the helm in case the kraken returns, but so far there is no sign of it.
Jozhur makes sure his bottle of air is close to hand.
Belowdecks, Aexana's spell has stopped the water coming in. A few more minutes with the pumps should make Fortune's Tide ready to sail again.
But, you need to decide what to do then. Go after the Blood Reaver right away, or wait a bit? Go after her in Fortune's Tide, or the Lionfish? Or a Swan Boat? Other ideas have been discussed, such as turning the entire group in to sea animals to get close, or possibly attempting to Teleport directly to the ship. How are you going to do this?
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30; 77hp) Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 11:24:04 PM
[OOC: Kathy, you handled the situation perfectly. I appreciated you moving the plot along, and besides, we need to be kept on our toes or we tend to talk stuff to death! LOL!]
Zeoll is in favor of the animal shapes plan with water breathing too just for backup. Just avoid the poison ink, then approach the enemy from below. Fight the Kraken again if need be.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141/144 Thursday October 4th, 2018 10:59:56 AM "Underwater combat using Animal Shapes may not be the best spell. The casters will be unable to use any spell that has a material component, and our muscly members will lose access to their weapons. Further, once the spell is lost some of us would struggle with swimming with all of our gear"
"We could use it to approach as gulls though with the intention of reverting back as quickly as we can"
"If I may suggest, let's not waste time and simply teleport to the ship's coordinates. If the kraken returns to them they will know its attack failed. I'm not sure, can those things speak? It could even give them information that could be used against us and give them time to prepare for us.
"How far off are we do you think? Do we have any divination spells that could help pinpont? I could cast a Locate Creature spell but the range is very short"
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday October 4th, 2018 12:09:17 PM "Alas, I did not take Scrying today. We simply cannot teleport to a place we have never seen. We may not be able to stop the Kraken from warning Blood Reaver, but let's do what we can.
"We had a plan we should stick to, and I have something else that will help us. Now that Tahni has mended the ship, I have a Feather Token Fan that will propel us toward the Blood Reaver quickly. Let us get underway as soon as we can, propelled by the Fan. Once we can see a clear space on the deck of the Blood Reaver, Tahni and I will be ready to Dimension Door or Teleport there. And from there, we're gonna have to just wing it. I will take Terser, Bralin, Jozhur, Aex and Fang. Tahni, if you can take Leafy and Zeoll I think that maxes out both of our spells."
Rill turns to the crew of the ship. "You will be on your own. Should the Kraken show up, do not fight it. Once it can see we are not on the ship, it will likely leave you alone to go help the Blood Reaver."
If others are in agreement, Rill will activate his fan to propel the ship forward at 25 mph. Then he casts a few preparatory spells.
Air Walk on Bralin and Fang (lasts 150 min) Delay Posion on himself Delay Posion scrolls on Terser, Bralin, Jozhur and Fang (lasts 3 hours)
[OOC: Bear in mind that Teleport will have a 6% chance of failure once we are able to see the ship.]
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34/34, channel 5/5) Thursday October 4th, 2018 4:31:02 PM
"Agreed. Speed is our friend now. If the kraken spoke to us, it can certainly warn it's friend that it's protecting. "
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Water walk Thursday October 4th, 2018 6:22:51 PM
"Aye," agrees Bralin, as eloquent as ever.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday October 4th, 2018 7:07:41 PM
Fang is happy to go along with the plan of the more experience seagoers and stays near Rill for the eventual teleport into combat.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 d20+13=28 ; Thursday October 4th, 2018 7:24:54 PM
Not sure what kind of poison it is Leafy is exposed to but since he has plant traits (Plant Traits (Ex) Plants are immune to all mind-affecting effects (charms, compulsions, morale effects, patterns, and phantasms), paralysis, poison, polymorph, sleep, and stun.) I'm not sure he's actually in any danger?
None the less second save : 28 fail
Aex is pleased to see her spells have prevented the ship from sinkin but they're not out of danger yet. And what's that with Leafy? She nods as Thani points out that not everyone will be able to cast spells in animal shape. She learned that skill but others might not... so combat in animal shape must be prevented she thinks. Even she as a druid seldom fights in animal shape... but then again... she seldom fights anyhow :-)
She goes to check on Leafy and will dig up some potions to cure the young tree.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 110/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Thursday October 4th, 2018 7:27:35 PM
"Sounds good, Rill. Though at the speed that thing is moving, it will beat us anyways. We shouldn't count on having surprise on our side."
And yes Kathy, prodding us along wont hurt any feelings. If you let us go, you could end up with a campaign of us sailing around talking to each other.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday October 4th, 2018 7:41:07 PM
That wouldn't be so bad. Zeoll has good stories!
DM Kathy Thursday October 4th, 2018 11:59:23 PM Zeoll suggests attacking from underwater in animal form, but Tahni points out that there are several drawbacks to this plan. Perhaps an arial approach would be better.
Rill proposes using a fan token to rapidly propel the Fortune's Tide forward, then teleporting to the Blood Reaver as soon as a clear space is visible on deck.
Terser, Bralin, and Fang seem to agree with Rill.
Jozhur also concurs, and warns that you've probably lost the element of surprise.
Aexana is worried about her companion, but it seems her worry is unnecessary. Leafy is fine. The effect was a poison, and he is immune. He is A-OK and ready for another fight!
Assuming you put Rill's plan into effect, you deploy the giant fan. It fills the sails, sending you skimming in the direction of the Blood Reaver. Soon, you see the ship itself on the horizon. And they, presumably, see you. You approach to within about a mile of one another.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30; 77hp) d20+2=3 ; d20+32=50 ; Friday October 5th, 2018 8:48:34 AM
Zeoll strains his eyes to see how many ships there are, and which one is the Blood Reaver.
Perception with Taurs Try and Guidance: 50 - Oh, and Elf Vision ... 52 with Elf Vision.
He makes sure that all spells are up to date: Mage Armor on himself and Leafy -- Anyone Else?!
Note: He has not summoned Drini today -- he is too afraid of the danger to her.
Current Magic Status: - OOC: Updated for new day, oopsie! Currently on Zeoll: Mage Armor, Taur's Try (+1 perception), Magic Circle, Elf Vision, Water Walk.
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command x4 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat, restoration, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally Sorc Spells: 1: 4 of 8 used (mage armor x2) 2: 0 of 8 used 3: 0 of 7 used 4: 3 of 4 used (confusion x3) Other resources: Cape: 1 of 1 used Horns: 4 of 4 used SHIELD status: donned
Invis: used 1 Laugh Touch: used 1
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Water walk Friday October 5th, 2018 8:34:45 PM
Bralin slides up next to Rill.
"I will need a moment to cast a protective spell just prior to your spell," he tells the priest. "Give me a few seconds warning."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141/144 Friday October 5th, 2018 9:55:00 PM "We're still too far away for me to Dimension Door over there. I can teleport no problems though, but it would only be me and five other people. Rill, do you have a teleport spell prepared as well?"
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 110/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Saturday October 6th, 2018 10:15:38 PM
Jozhur pulls a potion of Shield from his bag and stands next to Rill, waiting. He will quaff the potion just before being teleported. As they approach, he sends his shadow just below the surface of the sea to look for the kraken.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Sunday October 7th, 2018 6:38:38 PM
Leafy nods to Zeoll as he once again gratefully accepts the extra mage armour. Along with Aex's Stoneskin potions that will hopefully get him through some combat.
"Argh this is too close already... I had hoped to get some rain over the Blood Reaver... that would greatly enhance my lightning spells...
Leafy, go with Rill as they will teleport you over there... once on deck, tap my staff onto it and it will turn into your Treant buddy... I will follow through the air and will cast spells overhead. Stay safe my friend...
Friends, before you go... please look at these potions as they might help you... "
Aex rummages through her potions and takes out a selection of useful buffs : - stoneskin, Greater Magic Fang, Protection from energy, Owl's wisdom, cast's grace, Bull's Strength, Bear's Endurance, Barkskin...
"I will follow through the air and will try to provide cover and protection... and should things go dire.. . Rill helped me brew this one... the Breath of Life... "
The others will be a lot faster near the Blood Reaver using teleportations so Aex can't wait too long... as soon as everyone agrees with this plan, she shapechanges into an Air Elemental and flies top speed, and invisible using her ring, towards the Blood Reaver. Hoping to get there in time...
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Sunday October 7th, 2018 7:47:12 PM
Fang gets ready to cast her own buff spells but wait until the others signal they're close enough to teleport over since they only last a few minutes each. Prepared action to cast Extended Divine Favor and Quickened Freedom of Movement right before they teleport over.
DM Kathy Sunday October 7th, 2018 10:06:36 PM Zeoll strains his eyes, but he really doesn't need to. There is only one ship in sight, and either it is the Blood Reaver, or you have been woefully misdirected.
Bralin, Jozhur, and Fang prepare to be teleported.
Tahni says you are still too far away for a Dimension Door, and she can't get the whole group with a Teleport.
Aexana is not counting on a teleport; she is going to shift into an elemental and get there under her own power.
Also, there was plenty of time to cast spells as you approached. If you wanted to create some weather, you had time to do it. I was trying to avoid a series of posts saying: "you're 12 miles away. Now you're 11 miles away. Now you're 10 miles away...."
Speaking of which, you are still moving closer. It would help me immensely if people could say how close they need to be before they act. Half a mile? 1000 feet? Closer?
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Sunday October 7th, 2018 10:22:47 PM
Rill is ready to cast teleport one everyone's preparatory spells are cast.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC30/32; 89of77hp) d8+6=9 d8+6=8 d8+6=12 d8+6=11 d8+6=12 d8+6=8 d8+6=7 d8+6=12 d8+6=12 d8+6=12 Sunday October 7th, 2018 10:50:03 PM
With Rill and Tahni ready to teleport the group, Zeoll asks his friends to hold off for a minute. He casts Monster Summoning 4 to call a hound archon. The archon casts Aid on everybody.
Aex +9 temp hp Bralin +8 temp hp Fang +12 temp hp Jozhur +11 temp hp Leafy +12 temp hp Rill +8 temp hp Tahni +12 temp hp Terser +12 temp hp Zeoll +12 temp hp
Zeoll casts Reduce Person on himself and Mage Armor on the Archon. "Okay, let's all go," he says.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141/144 d100=17 ; Monday October 8th, 2018 6:03:42 AM
Tahni has no prep spells she wishes to cast. She'll cast a haste spell immediately before teleporting the party, but that's it.
She looks towards the enemy vessel, ready to teleport. She can teleport 1,400 miles so feels the ship is in range.
Teleport check: 17 = On target
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34/34, channel 5/5) Monday October 8th, 2018 4:42:49 PM
Once they're over, Terser reminds those who would to accept his strength. He can give 6 others +6 STR/ +6 CON, +3 will saves, -2AC. Leafy and the Treant would likely benefit, and perhaps Fang too, since it may be a stronger effect than her own. He can also wait for the myriad summons to appear before sharing.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP106/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP75/89 - AC30/23/27 - CMD 20 Monday October 8th, 2018 6:34:59 PM
Leafy and Aex sure are happy with the extra protection Zeoll comes up with. Leafy will stay close to Terser during combat and once they are a board the Blood Reaver the staff will bring forth the Treant again.
Looking behind them in time Aex did indeed benefit from the time that passes once they have seen the other ship and the actual start of the approach. In a 3mile radius centered on the Blood Reaver Aex will summon a gently downpour. Casting lightnings in rain or storm enghances those greatly.
Not sure where everyone is already but Aex will be on her way once the order is given.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Monday October 8th, 2018 6:42:36 PM
Fang doesn't want to cast her spells too prematurely considering their low duration and her low caster level. She's happy to accept the aid of others (can you guys give me a duration and type of buff so I can add them to my tracker and determine if they stack with any of my other bonuses?)
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T16 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 214/206) Monday October 8th, 2018 7:11:28 PM
Bralin waits until the last moment before the teleport, and then casts Shield of Faith on himself. Then, he pulls out his axe.
He also willingly takes Terser's strength bonus. OOC - what types of bonus is the will and ac help?
-- Spells in effect
Water Walk Aid (+8 temp hp) Shield of Faith (+3 deflection bonus to AC) Terser's deal (+4 STR/ +4 CON extra. Maybe +3 will saves, -2AC.)
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d100=4 ; Monday October 8th, 2018 7:59:20 PM
Rill casts an extended Prayer and Holy Aura on all just before Teleporting. He makes sure to time it with Aexana.
"Well, here we go. Let's see what we get ourselves into."
------------------ Teleport roll = 4 - on target.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 110/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Monday October 8th, 2018 9:08:05 PM
Jozhur grips his blades tightly as he prepares to be teleported into who knows what. He quaffs his potion of shield, and also tosses back an invisibility potion he's had laying around for awhile.
----------------------------------- Is there room in the teleport for Jozhur's shadow?
Current AC: 31 - 35 vs opportunity attacks
Active effects: Invisibility: 2 mins Shield (Round 1/10): +4 shield bonus to AC Prayer: +1 luck bonus Attack/Damage/Saves/Skills Haste: +1 dodge AC, +1 attack Water walk Aid: 11/11 temp HP
DM Kathy Monday October 8th, 2018 9:43:30 PM
As you approached, Aexana conjured a gentle rain over the Blood Reaver.
Zeoll summons a Hound Archon who casts Aid on everybody. Zeoll casts Mage Armor on the Archon and Reduce Person on himself.
Bralin casts Shield of Faith. Jozhur drinks potions of Shield and Invisibility.
Rill casts extended Prayer and Holy Aura.
Tahni casts Haste.
Then Tahni and Rill each cast a Teleport.
You arrive on the deck of the Blood Reaver. The crew seem surprised to see you. A dark elf, a dwarf with a crossbow, and two half-orcs immediately pull out potions and drink them. Bloodkin sailors begin advancing on your position.
And the map. I forgot to put a Hound Archon on there; perhaps Cayzle would like to find one and add it? Also, I assumed that Aexana would teleport with the group rather than transforming and flying in, which would take a while. If I assumed wrong, though, we can remove Aexana from the map.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Monday October 8th, 2018 11:30:04 PM
(In my earlier post, I'd indicated Rill was taking Terser, Jozhur, Bralin, Fang and Aexana.)
Rob: spoiler for Rill Highlight to display spoiler: {Aex had indicated she might fly instead. I think that was what our kindly DM was meaning in terms of the map}
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141/144+12 temp hp d20+17=23 ; d20+15=28 ; Tuesday October 9th, 2018 4:38:46 AM "Here we go..." Tahni flies westwards over the side of the ship.
She turns to face the crew and casts a Waves of Exhaustion spell, catching 4 of the crew members, the dark elf and another dubious crew member (a half-orc I think?). That oughta soften them up a little.
The dark elf looks like a good target, so Tahni follows up with an attempt to remove some of his magic.
-------------- Move: Fly westwards Standard: Defensively cast Waves of Exhaustion. Concentration check: Autopass. The spell is a 60ft cone. All enemies northwards of Tahni gain the exhausted condition. No Save. SR check if needed: 23 Free action: Retrieve Lesser Quicken Rod from Glove of Storing Swift action: Defensively Cast Dispel Magic on the half-elf. Concentration check: autopass. With her Arcane Sight Tahni can see the strongest active aura on the half-elf so will target it. If he doesn't have any at all, target the next most powerful. Dispel check: 28
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 15d6=60 ; Tuesday October 9th, 2018 11:52:53 AM
In a flash, Rill finds himself aboard the ship and quickly reorients himself. Having cast Holy Aura,each member of the party is surrounded by a brilliant aura. (SR 25, AC and Save bonuses, mental protection, anyone striking you must make a DC 26 Fort save or be blind.)
Rill shouts, ”Lay down your weapons and you will be given fair justice. We may even let your little squid friend live.”
Rill casts Blade Barrier sternward of us (dotted circle on map), enclosing four bloodkin, and forcing two NPCs in the circle edge to make a DC 24 Reflex save or take 60 points of damage.
Then he says to his friends, ”That squid’s gonna show up anytime now.”
--------------------------------------- (I’m not sure how much time has passed since our encounter with the Kraken.)
Air Walk on Bralin and Fang (orig. 150 min) Delay Posion scrolls on Terser, Bralin, Jozhur and Fang (orig. 3 hours)
On Rill: Status on all (extended from the night before), Longstrider (extended from the night before), Deathwatch, Tongues, Endure Elements, Freedom of Movement (orig.150 min), Delay Posion (orig. 15 hours)
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 110/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+21=33 ; 6d6=20 ; 2d6=8 ; d6+4=5 ; Tuesday October 9th, 2018 5:47:11 PM
Jozhur quickly gets his wits about him and goes after the most important and frailest looking target, the dark elf. Hoping to add a little more bite to Rill's threat, the invisible rogue rushes the elf and tries to skewer his target.
Was Jozhur's shadow able to get in on the teleport? If not, it is flying from the Fortune's Tide.
---------------------------------- Attack from invisible hits AC 33: 5 damage, 20 sneak damage, 8 damage if evil (33)
Current AC: 31 - 35 vs opportunity attacks
Active effects: Shield (Round 1/10): +4 shield bonus to AC Prayer: +1 luck bonus Attack/Damage/Saves/Skills Haste: +1 dodge AC, +1 attack Water walk Aid: 11/11 temp HP
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 110/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Tuesday October 9th, 2018 5:47:36 PM
Also 2 strength damage with the sneak attack
(MikeK)Bralin (AC38 / T16 / FF33) CMD 35 - HP 214/206) SR 25 vs evil d20+23=24 ; Tuesday October 9th, 2018 7:04:31 PM
Bralin's head swivels about as he quickly takes stock of the ground. He moves parallel to Jozhur, bringing his blade to bear on the other half orc.
The Blade Barrier was so entirely unexpected that the dwarf startles, pulling the axe well short of his foe.
-- Move to half orc. (Spring Attack feat negates AoO). Atk - Power Attack, Imp Vital Strike. Would have been glorious. Nat 1.
Spells in effect:
Water Walk Aid (+8 temp hp) Shield of Faith (+3 deflection bonus to AC) Terser's deal (+4 STR/ +4 CON extra. Maybe +3 will saves, -2AC.) Holy Aura. +1 more deflection bonus to AC. No save help. anyone striking him must make a DC 26 Fort save or be blind.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 177/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+33=50 ; d10+21=27 ; d10=9 ; d10=1 ; Tuesday October 9th, 2018 7:15:09 PM
Fang starts to fly into a rage before realizing that she's already under the effect of Terser's magic, making Rage redundant. Instead she just advances to the nearest target and lays into him. It feels really strange to not be raging in combat.
50 to hit, Vital Strike for 37 damage
(EDIT: actually that was another PC I was trying to attack. Fang'll join Jozhur on the Drow.)
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+18=21 ; d20+18=23 ; d20+16=18 ; d20+17=26 ; d20+17=21 ; d20+19=35 ; 5d10=35 ; d20+19=36 ; d20+19=35 ; 5d10=30 ; 5d10=17 ; Tuesday October 9th, 2018 9:03:40 PM
(Aex suggested the possibility of going through the air if all teleportation spells were full. If there's a spot left for her she'll gladly take it. Why would she arrive tired at a combat site :-)
Once aboard the Bloodreaver, Leafy does as instructed and taps Aex's staff onto the deck. It changes once again to it's Treant size. Leafy and the treant find themselves already surrounded by so immediately they attack. Aex moves in close behind the treant and casts Stoneskin on it.
Leafy attacks the nearest Bloodkin : Slam 1 hits AC21 Slam 2 hits AC23 Bite hits AC18 Looks like a realy bad start... I'm assuming not a single hit was made...
Hopefully the Treant has better luck : Slam hits AC26 Slam hits AC21
Looks like both Leafy and the Treant will only be hitting thin air...
With the downpour Aex cast over the Blood Reaver her ligjhtings will become much stronger... (she changed into the air elemental earlier) Aex takes it to the sky and when 40ft high she casts lightning lord. Three bolts of lightning veer towards the three Bloodkin that are in a deadly tango with Leafy and the Treant.
Lightning bolt 1 - reflex DC26 for half - SR35 - damage 35 (enhanced to 5d10 thanks to rainy / stormy conditions. Lightning bolt 2 - reflex DC26 for half - SR36 - damage 30 (enhanced to 5d10 thanks to rainy / stormy conditions. Lightning bolt 2 - reflex DC26 for half - SR35 - damage 17 (enhanced to 5d10 thanks to rainy / stormy conditions.
Hound Archon advances, draws his weapon, and attacks the grey dwarf looking fellow.
He hits AC20 with haste for 8 damage.
Archon is AC24, 39 hp.
Zeoll looses his shield for easier casting. His AC drops to 21/23. He casts Confusion on the enemy. That's a DC27 Will save, or DC29 if they are Bloodkin. It has a 15 ft radius area, and Zeoll is careful to not get any of his friends or allies in the effect. Those four orange whip fellows, for sure.
DM Kathy d20+13=16 ; d20+17=18 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+4=5 ; d20+4=6 ; d20+4=7 ; d100=100 ; d100=44 ; d100=56 ; d100=3 ; d20+17=22 ; d20+22=41 ; d20+19=33 ; d20+19=26 ; d20+31=44 ; d10=9 ; d20+19=28 ; d4=2 ; d20+29=49 ; d20+29=44 ; d20+24=35 ; d20+19=21 ; d20+14=17 ; 6d4+33=53 ; d4=3 ; d20+12=23 ; d20+12=16 ; d20+12=21 ; d20+19=38 ; d20+12=21 ; 15d6=52 ; Wednesday October 10th, 2018 1:06:46 AM Tahni casts Waves of Exhaustion. catching 4 crew members and the half-orc fighter. She casts a targeted Dispel, but it is not powerful enough to dispel the dark elf's most powerful aura.
Rill calls for the Bloodkin to surrender, and casts a Blade Barrier. Two of the Bloodkin command crew get pretty chewed up.
Jozhur stabs the dark elf.
Bralin tries to attack the half-orc fighter, but is thrown off by the blade barrier.
Fang walks up to attack the dark elf, but that brings her in contact with the Blade Barrier. If you really want to stand there, that's a DC 24 Reflex save or 15d6 damage.
Aeana's tree friends attack. They are attacking ordinary Bloodkin sailors, whose AC is only 21, so they actually hit several times. Would you care to roll damage? :) Aexana also casts three Lightning Bolts, all of which hit and do damage.
Zeoll's Hound Archon attacks. The gray dwarf-looking fellow is actually Bralin, so presumably the Archon does not target him. Zeoll casts Confusion on the four Bloodkin inside the Blade Barrier. They all fail their saves.
One of the Confused Bloodkin attacks another, who babbles incoherently. A third attacks himself. The fourth fires his longbow at Tahni, but his shot isn't quite good enough to hit.
One of the Bloodkin in the bow uses his weapon to perform a Dazzling Display. His DC is 10 + opponent's Hit Dice + opponent's Wisdom modifier, and his result is 41. It affects every opponent within 30 feet, so I'm pretty sure he got Leafy, the Staff Treant, Terser, Rill and Aexana. They are shaken. The other two Bloodkin attack Leafy, who is now shaken. However, they miss.
The dwarf with the crossbow steps back and fires at the Staff Treant. He hits for 20 damage.
The half-orc rogue moves to flank Jozhur with the dark elf--or so he thinks. He attacks once, hits, and is very sad to only do 6 points of damage. At least he isn't blinded.
The half-orc fighter leaves the Blade Barrier to attack Bralin. He only hits once, but it is a critical hit for 53 damage. He is not blinded.
The dark elf also steps out of the Blade Barrier, and casts a spell. Spellcraft DC 24 Highlight to display spoiler: {Time Stop}. The next thing you know, there is a second Blade Barrier on deck, this one enclosing Zeoll, Aexana, Rill, and Terser. Also, Leafy and the Staff Treant need to make a DC 22 Reflex save or take 52 points of damage. Finally, Jozhur feels his insides twisting in on themselves, and must make a DC 25 Fort save or take 180 points of damage.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 110/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+10=29 ; Wednesday October 10th, 2018 2:30:50 AM
Rolling fortbsave quick so Rill can act: pass with 29
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141/144+12 temp hp d20+12=21 ; 7d6=31 ; Wednesday October 10th, 2018 3:15:36 AM
Tahni is a little surprised that her dispel didn't work. Maybe she's losing her touch? Then she sees the dark elf cast a spell and she recognizes it immediately: Time Stop. This guy MUST be powerful. He needs to be locked down.
Using her quicken rod she casts a Spectral Hand spell. She disappears from view and then waits. If he goes to cast a spell she's going to do what she can to disrupt him.
-------------- Spellcraft check vs DC24: Autopass
Swift action: Cast Spectral Hand Move action: Use Fey Hideaway ability to turn invisible Free action: 5ft step backwards diagonally Standard action: READY an action. If the dark-elf starts to cast a spell, cast Vampiric Touch on him. Hits Touch AC21+2 from Spectral Hand=23. 31pts damage. No Save.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+22=36 ; d20+21=27 ; Wednesday October 10th, 2018 11:00:25 AM
Rill thinks the party makes an impressive sight all glowing brilliantly.
"C'mon Terser - let's get that spell caster!"
Rill moves 5' and then uses Dimensional Hop to move himself and Terser 45' over next to the dark elf (move action). Then he make a concentration check (rolled 36 - passed) to cast Harm, touching the dark elf (used Hero Point to hit touch AC 27. 150 points of damage, Will save DC 24 for half.)
--------------------------------------- Spells in effect:
On all: Holy Aura - 27 rounds - Spell Resistance 25, AC and Save bonuses, mental protection, anyone striking you must make a DC 26 Fort save or be blind. Prayer - 13 rounds
Air Walk on Bralin and Fang (orig. 150 min) Delay Posion scrolls on Terser, Bralin, Jozhur and Fang (orig. 3 hours)
On Rill: Status on all (extended from the night before), Longstrider (extended from the night before), Deathwatch, Tongues, Endure Elements, Freedom of Movement (orig.150 min), Delay Posion (orig. 15 hours), +8 HP
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34/34, channel 5/5) Wednesday October 10th, 2018 11:42:03 AM Makeup for yesterday - was waiting on summons before posting so I could get them too.
Actually, Fang feels just like she does while raging, just more powerful! Terser's Raging Shaman ability allows him to share the Greater Rage ability. Leafy, Treant, Hound Archon, Fang, Bralin, and Jozhur all feel the effects, should they choose to accept them. Morale Bonus - +6 STR, +6 CON, +3 Will, -2AC
Once Raged up, Terser enlarges himself, just before Rill hops him through the whirling blades.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 32/34, channel 5/5) d20+22=25 ; d20+22=27 ; d20+17=21 ; d20+12=14 ; 6d8+30=60 ; 2d8+30=36 ; 2d8+30=35 ; d20+22=31 ; d20+22=30 ; 2d8+30=38 ; 2d8+30=34 ; Wednesday October 10th, 2018 11:53:37 AM
AC mods - enlarge -2, rage -2, holy aura +4, makes it even
HP 260/260
Fully buffed up and finding himself next to a powerful foe who has clearly chosen not to surrender, Terser attacks full out.
He calls upon his ancestors for speed, but despite this, something seems to be in his way. rolled 3, 5, 4, 2
Attacks vs AC 25 for 60 damage, 27 for 36 damage, 21 for 35 damage, 14 However, he has a huge threat range now (15 feet) and should anyone cast a spell or approach him, they're in for a nasty surprise.
(First AoO vs AC 31 for 38 2nd AoO vs AC 30 for 34)
Haste used: 1/3
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 104/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+28=39 ; d20+21=25 ; d6+4=8 ; 6d6=15 ; 2d6=2 ; Wednesday October 10th, 2018 4:42:05 PM
Jozhur grimaces briefly as he suddenly doesn't feel so well, but he quickly shrugs it off and keeps fighting. The enemy rogue draws blood and Jozhur's eyes go wide. He assesses the situation and decides he would be most useful keeping this backstabbing away from his friends.
Jozhur positions himself and feints a trip at the rogue before lunging with his sword.
-------------------------------------------------------------------- Jozhur will share in Terser's rage Fort save vs nastiness: 29, success Bluff check to feint: 39 Attack hits AC 25: 11 damage plus 2 holy damage, additional 15 sneak damage and 2 strength ability damage if feint successful
Current AC: 29 - 33 vs opportunity attacks
Active effects: Shield (Round 1/10): +4 shield bonus to AC Prayer: +1 luck bonus Attack/Damage/Saves/Skills Haste: +1 dodge AC, +1 attack Water walk Aid: 11/11 temp HP Ragin' : +6 STR, +6 CON, +3 Will, -2 AC
(MikeK)Bralin (AC40 / T18 / FF35) CMD 35 - HP 176/221) SR 25 vs evil d20+24=29 ; d20+19=31 ; d20+14=34 ; d10+20=24 ; d6=2 ; d20+14=28 ; d10+20=26 ; d6=1 ; d10+20=21 ; d6=6 ; d10+20=22 ; d6=4 ; d10+20=24 ; d6=5 ; Wednesday October 10th, 2018 6:38:57 PM
Bralin takes a powerful blow. He concedes the point with a slight nod, and then attacks.
--- Full Attack, Power Attack Atk 1 hits ac29 for 28 hp damage (2 cold) Atk 2 hits ac31 for 27 hp damage (1 cold) Atk 3 Nat 20. Crit threat hits ac 28 for 73 hp damage (6 cold). If no crit damage is 27 hp (6 cold)
Spells in effect:
Water Walk Aid (+8 temp hp) Shield of Faith (+3 deflection bonus to AC) Terser's deal (morale bonus of +6 STR/ +6 CON +3 will saves -2AC.) Holy Aura. +1 more deflection bonus to AC. No save help. anyone striking him must make a DC 26 Fort save or be blind.
Leafy Slam 1 : 26 HP + 8 sonic + thorns -1 DEX (Fort DC19 to negate) Leafy Slam 2 : 19 HP + 4 sonic + thorns -2 DEX (Fort DC19 to negate) Treant Slam : 17 HP Treant Slam : 21 HP
Question : Dazling display is a mind effect or morale effect right? Does that affect plants who are immune to mind affecting effects?
Also last turn Aex posted that she flew up 40ft into the air so technically (if I'm not mistaking) she's not within range of the dazling display effect, hence not shaken. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aex sees the Blade barrier below her that almost shreds Jozhur to fine thin slices... she's relieved to see hi escape unscathed. She aims three more lighting bolts at the bloodkin fighting Leafy and the Treant :
Lightning bolt 1 - reflex DC26 for half - SR33 - damage 20 (enhanced to 5d10 thanks to rainy / stormy conditions. Lightning bolt 2 - reflex DC26 for half - SR21 - damage 23 (enhanced to 5d10 thanks to rainy / stormy conditions. Lightning bolt 2 - reflex DC26 for half - SR21 - damage 20 (enhanced to 5d10 thanks to rainy / stormy conditions.
Leafy and the Treant hope to dispatch the 3 bloodkin as soon as possible so they fight on - though possibly shaken (-2 Att roll right?)
Both make a full attack :
Leafy attacks the nearest Bloodkin : Slam 1 hits AC33 - damage 26 Slam 2 hits AC21 - damage 26 Bite hits AC18
Treant attack Slam hits AC17 Slam hits AC20
Fang (Mitch) HP: 161/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+33=50 ; d20+21=26 ; d10=1 ; d10=7 ; d20+12=28 ; 8d6=28 ; Wednesday October 10th, 2018 8:20:56 PM
Fang hits the elf again, unfortunately unable to make a full attack.
(Didn't realize what the weird circle was. Save of 28 and 28 damage taken (had 12 bonus HP from Aid that are now gone))
Attack hits AC 50 for 34 damage
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC21/23; 89of77hp) Wednesday October 10th, 2018 10:07:44 PM
Hound Archon moves up to flank with Jozhur and aids another (auto success on a +9 mod) to grant him a +2 to hit.
Archon is AC24, 39 hp.
Zeoll casts a Command: FLEE on one of the four enemies in the blade barrier, hoping to make it run away through the blades. Will DC 24, 26 vs bloodkin.
Then he turns invisible as a move action.
DM Kathy d20+4=10 ; d20+12=32 ; d100=4 ; d20+17=25 ; d20+31=45 ; d10=5 ; d20+18=35 ; d20+13=22 ; d20+8=19 ; d20+18=33 ; d6=1 ; d6=3 ; Thursday October 11th, 2018 12:16:01 AM Tahni/b] brings up a Spectral Hand and turns herself invisible.
Rill [i]Dimensional Hops himself and Terser out of the Blade Barrier. He casts Harm, and is somewhat surprised when his hand does not connect with anything! DC 21 Will save Highlight to display spoiler: {the dark elf is an illusion!}
Terser attacks the dark elf, but his blade does not connect with anything! DC 21 Will save Highlight to display spoiler: {the dark elf is an illusion!}
Jozhur shrugs off whatever was twisting his insides, and attacks the half-orc rogue. He hits, and does damage.
Bralin full-attacks, taking down his opponent.
Aexana sends more lightning bolts, and Leafy and the Staff Treant finish them off. [I still need reflex saves for Leafy and the Staff Treant for the Blade Barrier from last round. Also, unless they move, they'll need to save this round as well, or continue taking damage.]
Fang attacks the dark elf, but whiffs right through him! DC 21 Will save Highlight to display spoiler: {the dark elf is an illusion!}
The Hound Archon moves to help Jozhur as Zeoll casts a Command. One of the Bloodkin flees through the Blade Barrier, making his save and taking no damage.
Of the remaining Bloodkin, two are fighting each other, and the third acts normally this round. He fires his longbow at Bralin, and, you know, good luck with that. Oh look, he missed.
The dwarf with the crossbow shifts again and targets Terser. He hits, and Terser takes 16 damage.
The rogue shifts out of flank and attacks the Hound Archon. He only hits once, but it is a critical hit for 14 damage. The Hound Archon is sickened.
The dark elf begins casting a spell. Tahni tries to attack through her Spectral Hand, to no effect. Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Your Arcane Sight had previously identified several auras on the dark elf, but now there appears to be only one.}
Zeoll feels his insides begin to twist and shift. He needs to make a DC 25 Fort save or take 180 points of damage.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141/144+12 temp hp d20+14=23 ; 7d6=24 ; d20+26=28 ; Thursday October 11th, 2018 6:40:31 AM
Tahni is getting a little annoyed by this dark-elf. He's a slippery guy. There's something a little off about him too. Where did his other auras disappear to? Why did Fang's attacks go right through him?
She tries her hand at hitting him once more wary about his actions.
-------------- Perception check vs DC15: Autopass. Arcane Sight + See Invis/ethereal + Darkvision Spellcraft check to ID the spell cast on Zeoll: 28 Move action: Use Fey Hideaway ability to turn invisible Standard action: READY an action. If the dark-elf starts to cast a spell, cast Vampiric Touch on him. Hits Touch AC21+2 from Spectral Hand=23. 24pts damage. No Save.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+23=26 ; Thursday October 11th, 2018 9:47:17 AM
Rill made his will save. Since the illusion looks damaged from the Blade Barrier,the real elf must be as well. What holy symbol does the elf wear? His spells suggest he's a tricksy sort of cleric.
He shouts, "The Dark Elf Cleric is an illusion, but his spells are not! That means he's around here somewhere."
Rill will use the rod he holds to cast a quickened See Invisibility. If he can see the elf, he will follow that with Glitterdust to show others where he is.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 32/34, channel 5/5) d20+24=39 ; d20+24=28 ; 6d8+30=54 ; 2d8+30=38 ; Thursday October 11th, 2018 4:50:30 PM
Hearing that the elf is doing them a bamboozle, Terser will wait for the glitter to show where he is. Once he appears, he will charge with wild abandon to take a swipe at him, and make sure to get close enough to also interrupt a spell if possible. If he doesn't show, he will instead attack the nearest bloodkin.
Attack vs AC39 - 54 damage Potential AoO vs AC28 - 38 damage
(MikeK)Bralin (AC36 / T14 / FF31) CMD 35 - HP 176/221) SR 25 vs evil d20+24=42 ; d10+20=22 ; d10+20=30 ; d10+20=23 ; d6=3 ; Thursday October 11th, 2018 5:55:29 PM OOC - my bad. I just picked up on that Terser's AC is a penalty, not a bonus. Adjusted ac
With his present foe down, Bralin turns toward the next half orc. An arrow glances off his armor. He pays is no heed
Bralin crosses to the center of ship and slams his axe into the half orc rogue.
--- Move to engage rogue. Power Attack. Imp Vital Strike Atk hits ac 42 for 78 hp damage (3 cold)
Spells in effect:
Water Walk Shield of Faith (+3 deflection bonus to AC) Terser's deal (morale bonus of +6 STR/ +6 CON +3 will saves -2AC.) Holy Aura. +1 more deflection bonus to AC. No save help. anyone striking him must make a DC 26 Fort save or be blind.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 104/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+27=36 ; d20+21=36 ; d6+4=6 ; 6d6=22 ; 2d6=9 ; d20+24=29 ; Thursday October 11th, 2018 7:29:37 PM
This fight seems to be going rather well from Jozhur's perspective. Confident they have this in hand, he shifts to cover Rill's back, then feints low with his dagger before lunging again with his sword. He hears yelling about the Dark Elf being an illusion, so he glances about for the real one.
----------------------------------------------- Perception: 29 Bluff check to feint: 36 Attack hits AC 36, 6 damage plus 9 damage if evil. Additional 22 sneak damage if feint is successful (37 total)
Current AC: 29 - 33 vs opportunity attacks
Active effects: Shield (Round 3/10): +4 shield bonus to AC Prayer: +1 luck bonus Attack/Damage/Saves/Skills Haste: +1 dodge AC, +1 attack Water walk Aid: 11/11 temp HP Ragin' : +6 STR, +6 CON, +3 Will, -2 AC
Fang (Mitch) HP: 161/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+16=27 ; d20+35=45 ; d10+12=18 ; d10=2 ; d10=10 ; Thursday October 11th, 2018 7:33:52 PM
Fang easily figures out what's happening before Rill's shout. Rather than look about wildly hoping to spot the invisible enemy Fang charges the Dwarf with a crossbow and smacks him upside the head with her axe.
CHARGE! 45 to hit, 30 damage, -2 AC this turn
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+10=16 ; d20+3=21 ; Thursday October 11th, 2018 8:01:44 PM
First some saves from last turn - sorry Kathy. Leafy reflex save vs Blade barrier : 16 - fail - so that's 52 HP - 10HP Stoneskin - 12 temp HP's from Zeoll so - 30HP total Staff Treant relex save vs Blade Barrier : 21 - fail - 52HP - 10HP stoneskin : -42HP Total
It goes without saying that both Leafy and the Treant did move outside of the barrier once the three bloodkin were dispatched.
Aexana notices something's seriously wrong with Zeoll. Hovering 40ft above the deck she observes her friend... if he goes down Aex will crashland beside him and pour the Breath of LIfe potion in his mouth...
Leafy and the Treant both try to help Fang vs the Dark Ekf. (sorry took a peaf at the spoiler so I know the attacks of Leafy and the Treant will only strike thin tair - so I'm gaining some time by not rolling all - but they do waste their round.
Youch! Zeoll had hoped his invisibility would save him from being targetted, but no such luck.
He uses a preemptive hero point for the +8 on saves. DC25 Fort ... huh. Zeoll has a +9, +11 vs evil. Add in a +8 for a total +19. He rolls a 29 and passes! Whew!
Zeoll wishes he could have had some sense of where that attack came from. He casts See Invisibility and looks around: Perception 45.
He tells everybody what he sees.
[The Hound Archon has had enough, and pops away.]
Current Magic Status: Currently on Zeoll: Mage Armor, Taur's Try (+1 perception), Magic Circle, Elf Vision, Water Walk, Haste.
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command, command x3 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat, restoration, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally Sorc Spells: 1: 4 of 8 used (mage armor x2) 2: 1 of 8 used (see invis) 3: 0 of 7 used 4: 3 of 4 used (confusion x3) Other resources: Cape: 1 of 1 used Horns: 4 of 4 used SHIELD status: loosed
Invis: used 1 Laugh Touch: used 2 Hero Points: used 1 of 4
DM Kathy d20+21=35 ; d100=65 ; d100=74 ; d100=25 ; d20+17=35 ; d8=8 ; d20+23=30 ; d10=2 ; d10=7 ; d10=8 ; d10=4 ; d20+24=38 ; d20+24=28 ; d20+24=26 ; Friday October 12th, 2018 12:10:16 AM Tahni tries to identify the spell that the dark elf was using, but it isn't easy. He cast it during the Time Stop, so you didn't see or hear him cast it. The effects are not visible. In fact, unless Jozhur or Zeoll said anything, you might not even be aware that anything is amiss. You re-ready your Vampiric Touch.
Rill realizes that he is fighting an illusion. He casts a quickened See Invisibility, and sees the real dark elf standing amidships. He casts a Glitterdust, and now everybody can see the dark elf. I assume a 35 is a good enough save, so the dark elf is not blinded.
[Map note: The real elf is green. The fake elf is yellow.]
Terser steps over and clobbers the real elf.
Bralin attacks the rogue and does damage. Jozhur finishes him off.
Fang gives up on the dark elf and goes after the dwarf with the crossbow. She hits and does damage.
Aexana is worried about Zeoll, and stays nearby in case he needs help.
But Zeoll makes his save, although his Archon decides it has had enough. He can now clearly see the real elf, who has been Glitterdusted and is now sparkly.
One of the Confused Bloodkin has succeeded in killing another. Now he attacks himself. Another Bloodkin attacks himself. The one outside the Blade Barrier can act normally, and fires a shot at Rill. He hits for 10 damage.
The dwarf tosses down his crossbow and draws a war axe. He swings at Fang, hitting for 29 damage.
The dark elf's concentration has been broken, so now he has to cast a new spell. He begins casting defensively, triggering Tahni's readied action. Her Vampiric Touch hits and does damage, but it isn't quite enough to disrupt the spell.
His Blasphemy spell affects all non-evil creatures in a 40-foot radius, which I think catches everybody except Tahni and Aexana. Everyone else needs to make a DC 23 Will save. If you fail, you are paralyzed for 1d10 minutes, your Strength score decreases by 2d6 for 2d4 rounds, and you are dazed for one round. If you make the Will save, you are paralyzed for 1 round and your Strength decreases by half of 2d6 for 2d4 rounds.
And the map. Again, the real elf is the green one.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141+12temp+24temp/144 d20+14=20 ; d6=6 ; d20+12=29 ; d4=4 ; Friday October 12th, 2018 7:30:35 AM "Oh this guy is just the WORST" Tahni is less than impressed. The elf has managed to keep casting spells despite her efforts, putting him at 2 vs zip.
She recognizes the spell he casts and can only watch helplessly as it affects the party. She doesn't even know the Remove Paralysis spell to be able to help anyone. Even her Heal spell won't free them. The enemy have the party covered on all sides and that Maab-forsaken Elf keeps casting spells. The party can't take much more of it, so Tahni moves to put herself in harms way to draw his fire.
She flies forwards over the deck of the ship "Hey! Elf boy! Ever been slapped by a dwarf?!"
Tahni uses her spectral hand to deliver a spell right across his cheek and then follows up with a second for good measure. He should be a lot squishier now but she hasn't actually stopped him from casting a spell. Right now it's just about getting him angry and focused on her.
---------------------- Holy Aura: Tahni AC 27/Touch 17/Flat 24. SR25 against evil spells and spells cast by evil creatures.
Move action: Fly forwards 40ft (still about 10 - 15ft above the deck)
Standard action: Cast Touch of Idiocy. Hits Touch AC20. d6=6! Elfie takes a 6pt penalty to Int, Wis and Cha. No Save. This is in addition to the 6pts penalty to his Str and Dex from the Waves of Exhaustion.
Hero point action: Cast Enervation. Hits Touch AC29. d4=4!!! Elfie gets 4 negative levels! No Save. That's a further -4 penalty to ability checks, attack rolls, combat maneuver checks, combat Maneuver Defense, saving throws, and skill checks. Plus 20hp loss.
**Rill and Fang Highlight to display spoiler: {You probably know this, but just in case: "Freedom of Movement.. This spell enables you or a creature you touch to move and attack normally for the duration of the spell, even under the influence of magic that usually impedes movement, such as paralysis" :) }
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Friday October 12th, 2018 12:31:06 PM
(Everyone remember you are under the effects of Holy Aura and Prayer)
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+20=38 ; 2d6=11 ; 2d4=3 ; d6=6 ; d6=3 ; d6=1 ; d6=3 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ; d6=6 ; d6=2 ; d20+25=28 ; 2d8+14=19 ; Friday October 12th, 2018 12:38:09 PM
Now's not the time to be sitting down on the job, so Terser puts heroic effort into resisting this spell.
Base 10, +2 vs spells, +8 Hero Point - 38 Pass 5 STR reduction for 3 rounds
Despite resisting the worst effects, Terser is paralyzed for a moment. But the ancestors poke him in the rear and tell him to get moving, and he begins to radiate an aura.
Freedom's Call - allies in a 30 foot radius not affected by confused, grappled, frightened, panicked, paralyzed, pinned, or shaken for the duration. Round 1/8
For good measure, he adds a channel - excluding dark elves and bloodkin of course, using his rage to fuel its speed. move action for 2 rounds of rage - 27 healing to allies
He continues to menace anyone who would come near. AoO - reduced for lost str AC28 for 19 damage
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+19=25 ; d6=5 ; d6=1 ; d4=3 ; d4=1 ; d20+32=47 ; d20+32=49 ; d20+27=43 ; d20+22=32 ; d10+11=13 ; d10+11=19 ; d10+11=12 ; d10+11=19 ; Friday October 12th, 2018 7:43:56 PM
Fang manages to resist, but is still worried as she finds herself unable to move. Then Terser's call breaks the paralysis and she tears into the archer.
Save - 25, lose 3 STR for 4 rounds Free action - activate haste boots Attack one - 47 to hit, 13 damage Haste attack - 49 to hit, 19 damage Attack two - 43 to hit, 12 damage attack three - 43 to hit, 19 damage
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 104/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+23=42 ; d6+4=8 ; 6d6=21 ; 2d6=7 ; Friday October 12th, 2018 10:27:47 PM
With the enemy rogue out of the way, Jozhur turns his attention back to the elf. He vanishes for as split second and reappears behind the elf, following up with his sword.
------------------------------ Use 30 of 40' of Shadow Jump ability: I haven't attempted to use this yet as I was not sure how it is handled. Description says within 5' of an area of dim light. Given the description of hide in plain sight, the shadows of other characters may work. We can sort this out via email if need be, just need to get the post in quick.
If shadow jump doesn't work, Jozhur will just run up and stab the elf.
Attack hits AC 42 (w/ flanking): 11 damage (forgot rage), 7 damage if evil, additional 21 if able to flank.
Jozhur will share in Terser's rage Fort save vs nastiness: 29, success Bluff check to feint: 39 Attack hits AC 25: 11 damage plus 2 holy damage, additional 15 sneak damage and 2 strength ability damage if feint successful
Current AC: 29 - 33 vs opportunity attacks
Active effects: Shield (Round 1/10): +4 shield bonus to AC Prayer: +1 luck bonus Attack/Damage/Saves/Skills Haste: +1 dodge AC, +1 attack Water walk Aid: 11/11 temp HP Ragin' : +6 STR, +6 CON, +3 Will, -2 AC
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 104/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+12=16 ; d20+12=24 ; d6=3 ; d6=2 ; Saturday October 13th, 2018 2:41:11 AM
Sorry forgot to roll my save. First roll fails, hero point reroll passes with a 24. Shall I roll the strength damage? Loss of three strength. Jozhur is wearing a ring of freedom of movement to nullify the paralysis.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC36 / T14 / FF31) CMD 35 - HP 176/221) SR 25 vs evil d20+19=32 ; 2d6=6 ; 2d4=5 ; Saturday October 13th, 2018 9:46:36 AM
Nothing beats a dwarven Stone Warden for sheer stubbornness. Bralin endures the effects of the spell, [Will Save 32]
He still finds himself unable to move for the moment, and somewhat weakened.
--- Spells in effect:
Water Walk Shield of Faith (+3 deflection bonus to AC) Terser's deal (morale bonus of +6 STR/ +6 CON +3 will saves -2AC.) Holy Aura. +1 more deflection bonus to AC. No save help. anyone striking him must make a DC 26 Fort save or be blind. Prayer: +1 luck bonus on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks Blasphemy: -3 STR for 1/5 rounds
Zeoll rolls his will save, +20 vs evil, and gets a 37 -- not even counting the Holy Aura and the Prayer! He is paralyzed for a round still, though, and his strength is down by 5 divided by 2 is 2 for 8 rounds.
Can't do much paralyzed this round, but he goes invisible, a purely mental function, since he can. The old taur is glad there is a blade barrier between him and enemies!
Current Magic Status: Currently on Zeoll: Mage Armor, Taur's Try (+1 perception), Magic Circle, Elf Vision, Water Walk, Haste, invis, prayer, holy aura.
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command, command x3 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat, restoration, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally Sorc Spells: 1: 4 of 8 used (mage armor x2) 2: 1 of 8 used (see invis) 3: 0 of 7 used 4: 3 of 4 used (confusion x3) Other resources: Cape: 1 of 1 used Horns: 4 of 4 used SHIELD status: loosed
Invis: used 3 Laugh Touch: used 2 Hero Points: used 1 of 4 Str -2 for 1 of 8 rounds
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+5=18 ; 2d8=8 ; 2d6=6 ; 2d4=5 ; d20+9=12 ; d10=7 ; 2d6=6 ; 2d4=4 ; d20+13=20 ; 4d6=7 ; Sunday October 14th, 2018 4:41:54 PM
From her elevated position Aex watches how the Dark Elf sends one powerful spell after the other at her friends and companions.
Leafy (will save 18 +1 prayer +4 Holy Aura) 23 phew... paralyzed for 1 round, STR -3 for 5 rounds! Staff Treant (will save 12 +1prayer +4 Holy Aura) 17 FAIL - Paralyzed for 7 minutes - STR -6 for 4 rounds - dazed for one round. Let's say he's out of the fight...
Leafy freezes and so does the Staff Treant although it does seem that his conditions are far worse that those of Leafy.
This thing is pure evil... despite the rain she gathered Aex thinks a ray of sunlight might be handy... Sunbeam cast at Dark Elf : Reflex DC26 for half - SR20 - if reflex save fails creature is blinded + 7HP Not as good as she had hoped though... she should have called another lightning bolt perhaps.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+24=30 ; 10d6=39 ; Sunday October 14th, 2018 8:12:30 PM
Rill makes his save, and his Freedom of Movement spell alleviates the momentary paralysis. He looks again to see what sort of Holy Symbol the dark elf my wear and be using to cast spells.
He cast Destruction on the dark elf. (The dark elf takes 150 damage. If he makes a DC 25 Fort save he instead takes 39 damage.)
Rill is waiting for the other shoe to drop - where is that stupid squid?
DM Kathy d20+13=23 ; d20+17=27 ; d20+21=24 ; d20+23=33 ; 4d10+20=40 ; Sunday October 14th, 2018 10:35:24 PM Tahni uses her Spectral Hand to deliver a one-two punch of nasty spells!
Terser makes his save, and uses Freedom's Call to negate some of the lingering effects. He also channels energy to his companions.
Fang freezes momentarily, but is rescued by Freedom's Call. She activates her boots and unloads on the archer.
Jozhur attempts to use a Shadow Jump. However, thanks to Aexana's rain, the sky is cloudy, therefore there is no direct sunlight to cast shadows. So he just runs up and stabs instead.
Bralin and Zeoll make their saves, but must endure a round of paralysis. Zeoll goes invisible.
Aexana shines a sunbeam right in the dark elf's face! Where was this when Jozhur was looking for a shadow to jump into? The elf fails his save and is blinded.
Rill casts Destruction, but the dark elf makes his save. The holy symbol is not one you're familiar with. It's a dragon of some kind.
The dark elf begins casting a spell, casting defensively because he's surrounded by foes! He succeeds! Spellcraft DC 21 Highlight to display spoiler: {Word of Recall} He disappears!
That leaves only the dwarf, but with typical dwarven stubbornness, he shows no signs of wanting to give up. He attacks Fang, hitting for 40 damage.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141+12temp+24temp/144 d20+13=15 ; d4=4 ; Monday October 15th, 2018 6:30:54 AM "Yeah you better run!" Tahni shouts to the empty space that used to be the dark elf. It's pretty obvious to her what the coward has done and she lets the party know they can stop worrying: "Word of Recall"
The dwarf is still fighting though. "We might need to take him alive for questioning now that the elf has gone". It's a different position than she took in the last fight. Previously she would have seen every single slaver die for their crimes. This time however they need a lead. It may be his only chance at survival though.
She sets to weakening him.
Spellcraft check vs DC21: Autopass Cast Calcific Touch. Hits TouchAC15 (probably a miss). If hit, Dwarf to make Fort Save vs DC22. Pass=4pts Dex damage. Fail=4pts Dex damage + Slowed
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d6=2 ; d6=6 ; d6=6 ; d6=6 ; d6=3 ; d6=1 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ; d20=8 ; d6=3 ; d20+14=30 ; Monday October 15th, 2018 3:01:11 PM
Rill confirms Tahni's identification of the spell cast. To his friends he says, "Word of Recall will return that cleric to a familiar place of his choosing. He could simply be below decks for all we know. Perhaps some of us should search the ship while we deal with this stubborn dwarf."
Rill moves up next to Jozhur and channels energy, healing our party for 35 points but excluding any of the bloodkin.
"Look sir Dwarf, your comrades have fallen and that cleric abandoned you. I can heal my friends from any damage you inflict. Continue to fight, and your fate is sealed. I advise instead that you throw down your weapons and surrender."
"As for the rest of you lot, you'll be sleeping with the fishes for sure if you continue to resist."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday October 15th, 2018 6:00:23 PM
Leafy exits from his paralysis yet he is still feeling very weak. The Staff Treant though is still out cold. Aex lands besides him and changes him back to her staff... the result is quite the same though just a bit smaller.
She lightly pats Leafy on the shoulder and then sees what will happen to the dwarf. She reckons he's all but gone. As she walks the deck she avoids getting near to the swirling blades. TOo many of these...
It'll sure be interesting investigating this ship...
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+24=29 ; d20+25=30 ; 6d8+14=35 ; Monday October 15th, 2018 6:03:41 PM
Terser walks up and growls to back up Rill's threat. If the dwarf chooses not to surrender, he will deliver a mighty blow. Intimidate 39
Readied attack - vs AC30 for 35 damage He also stops the use of his freedom aura, reminding Zeoll and Bralin that they were only really paralyzed in their minds.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC36 / T14 / FF31) CMD 35 - HP 201/221) SR 25 vs evil Monday October 15th, 2018 6:38:24 PM
Bralin activates his winged boots, and flies around the edge of the blade barrier to land before the Bloodkin on the back deck.
"Yield."
--- Spells in effect:
Water Walk Shield of Faith (+3 deflection bonus to AC) Terser's deal (morale bonus of +6 STR/ +6 CON +3 will saves -2AC.) Holy Aura. +1 more deflection bonus to AC. No save help. anyone striking him must make a DC 26 Fort save or be blind. Prayer: +1 luck bonus on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks Blasphemy: -3 STR for 2/5 rounds
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Monday October 15th, 2018 7:13:12 PM
Fang hears the words of her allies and holds her blows. Deactivating her haste boots, she assumes a defensive posture in case of the likely refusal to surrender (33 AC this round, 31 if she can't dismiss the rage granted by someone else).
Spellcraft 24 gets the job done, and Zeoll mentions that the elf used his Word of Recall spell. Darn it.
As for the dwarf, Zeoll COMMANDs him to HALT. Will save DC 24, or 26 if he is a bloodkin. If he fails, he loses his next round of actions.
The old taur shoulders his shield.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+22=26 ; d6+3=4 ; 6d6=20 ; d4=1 ; d4=4 ; Monday October 15th, 2018 9:04:56 PM
Jozhur agrees with the call to take the dwarf alive. He drops his dagger and retrieves his sap as he moves to flank opposite of Terser. He lets loose with the sap, but he doesn't use it very often.
------------------------------------- Attack hits AC 26: 4 nonlethal plus 20 nonlethal sneak damage
Current AC: 29 - 33 vs opportunity attacks
Active effects: Shield (Round 1/10): +4 shield bonus to AC Prayer: +1 luck bonus Attack/Damage/Saves/Skills Haste: +1 dodge AC, +1 attack Water walk Aid: 11/11 temp HP Ragin' : +6 STR, +6 CON, +3 Will, -2 AC
-3 STR (round 2/5)
DM Kathy d20+19=35 ; Monday October 15th, 2018 10:16:50 PM Tahni warns her friends that the dark elf has done a runner, and casts a spell to keep the dwarf in place. Her aim, however, isn't quite good enough to hit him.
Rill heals the party and calls on the dwarf to surrender. He also warns the regular Bloodkin sailors to surrender, but until Zeoll drops their Confusion, they are not making their own decisions.
Aexana recalls her treant, who again becomes a staff.
Terser, Bralin, and Fang back up Rill's call for surrender.
Jozhur attempts to whack the dwarf with a sap, but earns nothing more than a puzzled frown.
Zeoll commands the dwarf to halt, but he easily makes his save.
Then he carefully lays down his axe and raises his hands.
The Confused Bloodkin still act on their confusion, but essentially the battle is over. Those Blade Barriers will go away eventually.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141+12temp+24temp/144 Tuesday October 16th, 2018 12:41:25 AM
Just to be on the safe side, Tahni casts a Locate Creature spell to check whether the kraken is anywhere nearby.
------------- Cast Locate Creature to find a kraken. Range: 1000ft
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+31=46 ; d20+31=39 ; Tuesday October 16th, 2018 11:20:23 AM
Rill looks the dwarf over. Is there anything that stands out about him? Does he wear any symbols or insignia? Anything that connects him to the dragon the dark elf wore? He makes mental note that the dwarf still has his axe within reach. Does he appear to have any other weapons or gear? (Perception 46)
Rill uses his Status to check on any wounds or maladies his friends may have. He also casts Detect Magic, Detect Poison, and Detect Evil.
"Good sir dwarf, what name may we use for you? I am Rillett Savenport. It has come to our attention that you have allied yourselves with a death dragon cult. What can you tell me about them? Why would the Bloodkin enter into such an alliance? Where did the dark elf go to? The spell he used would return him to his 'sanctuary' - where would that be? We will search this ship - is there anything on the Blood Reaver we should know about first? Do you have slaves aboard? What does that dragon cult do with the slaves you give them?"
Rill encourages others to chime in with their questions.
Through all of this Rill keeps an eye on the dwarf as he answers (Sense Motive 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) Tuesday October 16th, 2018 11:34:51 AM
Terser drops the rage for now, saving his strength. He shortly shrinks back down to normal size as well. fatigue 10 rounds - those who shared are only fatigued 6 rounds. Doesn't look like you can choose to end it until I do, but you don't get the extra fatigue I get for my channeling shenanigans.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday October 16th, 2018 5:36:35 PM
Now that Blood Reaver is captured Aex goes around the crew to check on their wounds. Here and there she'll dig up some healing potions. Eventually she will also offer the Dwarf to take care of his wounds... perhaps that will loosen his tongue.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC36 / T14 / FF31) CMD 35 - HP 157/176) SR 25 vs evil Tuesday October 16th, 2018 6:41:10 PM
Bralin feels the fatigue wash over him as Terser drops his rage. He nods to himself, assessing the cost for the next time.
The others have the dwarf. Bralin waits for the blade barrier to fall, and then collects up any living Bloodkin, and wordlessly escorts them over to the group.
---
Spells in effect:
Water Walk Shield of Faith (+3 deflection bonus to AC) Terser's deal : Fatigued 6 rounds Holy Aura. +1 more deflection bonus to AC. No save help. anyone striking him must make a DC 26 Fort save or be blind. Prayer: +1 luck bonus on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks Blasphemy: -3 STR for 3/5 rounds
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday October 16th, 2018 6:48:54 PM
Since the others have things under control up here Fang decides to check out bellow decks for any other enemies, non-combatants, and slaves. She makes sure to tell the others where she's going and proceeds cautiously. It would be stupid to die to an ambush below decks after the battle was mostly won.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+23=26 ; Tuesday October 16th, 2018 8:11:11 PM
Jozhur grins as the dwarf lays down his axe, "Good choice".
Jozhur insists Fang doesn't go below deck alone. He tags along, keeping his eyes peeled.
Perception: 26
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) d20+2=13 ; d20+30=46 ; Tuesday October 16th, 2018 9:54:45 PM
Zeoll cancels his confusion and calls firmly on all the remaining slavers to surrender.
Diplomacy 46
DM Kathy Wednesday October 17th, 2018 12:01:16 AM
Just to be safe, Tahni does a quick magical check for the kraken. It is not within range.
Rill begins questioning the dwarf. "Daven," he grunts when asked for his name. He tells you that there are slaves onboard, and that the slaves given to the Death Dragon cult are either converted or sacrificed. He isn't sure where the "cap'n's" sanctuary is, but he guesses it's probably somewhere in Clowder Bay. He explains that he converted to the Death Dragon cult, because "cap'n did, and that's good enough for me."
Aside from the axe he put down, the dwarf has a crossbow that he put down earlier, and a warhammer hangin at his belt. He is carefully keeping his hands away from it. You do not see any insignia on him. He detects as evil and some of his gear detects as magic.
Terser drops out of rage and resumes his normal size.
Zeoll drops his Confusion, and the remaining Bloodkin surrender. Bralin escorts them over to where Rill is questioning the dwarf, and Aexana offers healing potions. They accept one apiece.
Fang and Jozhur go belowdecks. You find a cargo hold, well-stocked with provisions.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141+12temp+24temp/144 Wednesday October 17th, 2018 6:12:28 AM
Tahni will look to collect anything that may have fallen from the dark elf when he was attacked - specifically blood or hair. She has something in mind for them.
"Was that kraken under anyone's control? Should we expect it to return?" she asks Daven.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC36 / T14 / FF31) CMD 35 - HP 157/176) SR 25 vs evil Wednesday October 17th, 2018 6:07:51 PM
Bralin looks over Daven.
"Where are the Death Dragons based?" he asks, without preamble.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday October 17th, 2018 6:48:55 PM
Aex too is worried the Kraken will soon return...
"Best not stay here for too long... we dont want that oversized squid back here..."
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 17th, 2018 6:51:37 PM Hey Tahni, think we should pull up anchor on this thing and move it around? Maybe that will make it a bit harder for the other owners or the Kraken to find us.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+6=18 ; Wednesday October 17th, 2018 7:24:15 PM
Fang searches the cargo hold for anything of particular value. (perception 18)
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+23=26 ; Wednesday October 17th, 2018 9:29:48 PM
Jozhur looks for the crew's quarters, particularly the captains quarters. He wants to search it for information. If he located the quarters, he's mindful items may be booby trapped and acts accordingly.
--------------------------- Perception: 26 (31 vs traps)
Zeoll hears there are slaves aboard, and he immediately moves to free them. He tells them they are free, explains the situation, and listens to their tales. He explains that he and his friends seek to stamp out slavery in the Middle Seas and to fight this evil cult of Death.
Sense Motive 19
Diplomacy 40
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Wednesday October 17th, 2018 10:07:57 PM "Davin, you are now our prisioner. You will surrender your weapons, armor and items. We will secure you until we figure out what to do with you, but we do intend to deal with you justly."Detect Magic should make sure he leaves nothing out.
Rill looks to his comrades to make sure he's not over stepping his boundaries here.
He will work with the others to secure this dwarf and the bloodkin, perhaps with some of the chains or such that were used on the slaves - doubling or tripling the bonds for the strong dwarf. Once they are secured, Rill will use his Detect Evil on the remaining bloodkin and slaves. he will ask if any of the slaves have sailing experience?
Eventually, he will also assist the others with Detect Magic in their search of the ship.
DM Kathy Wednesday October 17th, 2018 11:36:00 PM Tahni looks for blood or hair belonging to the dark elf. She finds some blood near where he was standing. Is it his blood? Could be, although there's a lot of blood on the deck. She asks whether the kraken was under anybody's control.
"Cap'n's friends with it," is Daven's reply.
Bralin asks where the Death Dragon cult is based. "We're everywhere," Daven boasts.
Aexana warns that the kraken may return, and Terser suggests sailing the Blood Reaver to a different location.
Rill oversees stripping the prisoners of their weapons and gear and binding them.
Fang searches the cargo hold. There is nothing of particular value, although there's a case of rather nice brandy. She does, however, find the ladder down to the deck below. As she looks down it, she is almost trampled by Zeoll, intent on his mission to free the slaves.
They are on a deck below the cargo hold, chained to oars. Of course, the Blood Reaver is not moving at the moment, so they're not rowing. However, they have clearly been overworked and abused. Zeoll frees them, and they struggle to understand how their fate has changed.
Jozhur is searching the crew quarters. You do find the captain's cabin, and one of the first things you notice is the ship's log. It details how the Middle Seas faction of the Death Dragon cult has taken over a small fishing town on the coast of Zarthmoor, near the Cursed Swamp. "Taken over" in this case means they converted the people in power. The ordinary folk have not been courted, though some have converted anyway. The name of the town is Clowder Bay.
Your search also turns up a secret latch in the captain's desk.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141+12temp+24temp/144 Thursday October 18th, 2018 6:22:16 AM
With Jozhur being the last one to strike the dark-elf Tahni will try and get some blood from his blade.
She turns her attention back to the dwarf. "You'll need to tell us more than that. Look at it this way. Is there was anything you can think of that could ease the punishment you have coming to you? It would also save me from using magic to peer into your mind"
She stays on deck to help keep an eye on things above whilst the others scout out below.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC36 / T14 / FF31) CMD 35 - HP 157/176) SR 25 vs evil Thursday October 18th, 2018 5:30:41 PM
Bralin had his own comment for Daven, but restrains himself as Tahni speaks.
The dwarf decides to go see what Jozhur is up to.
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 18th, 2018 6:30:34 PM Who, and where, then is the captain, Daven? Are there other floating bases like this one? If the elf is the captain and this ship is their only sea base, then destroying it may at least curtail his ability to communicate with his pet kraken. And where to take all these newly freed people? This seems to be something of a happy problem lately.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday October 18th, 2018 7:24:12 PM "I agree it would be a good idea to see if we can move this vessel, perhaps meeting up with the Lionfish." Assuming that is our next course of action, Rill will use a Bird Feather Token to get word to the Lionfishof our plans.
If Jozhur alerts Rill to the secret latch, Rill will use Detect Magic and Detect Posion to see if either is in play. He will also cast Guidance on the talented rogue to increase his skill in opening the thing and defeating any traps (+1 competence bonus on a single attack roll, saving throw, or skill check.)
If Jozhur does not ask for any help, Rill will instead move among the slaves to see to their wounds and maladies.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+26=44 ; Thursday October 18th, 2018 8:22:55 PM
"Perfect." Jozhur pockets the logbook to show the others. Of course he must check the secret latch he discovered, but he isn't foolish. He carefully checks for traps before proceeding.
-------------------- Perception: 44 Disable device take 10: 35
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday October 18th, 2018 8:32:55 PM
Fang goes to help Zeoll with the slaves, using what healing magics she has to strengthen the weak and wounded (spending 1st and 2nd level spell slots. All of them if their are that many wounded)
"Thanks, frriend Fang!" Zeoll channels energy to help the newly freed folk.
He makes sure the captives are watched and bound.
He complements Jozhur on good scouting. He tries to think about navigating to this Clowder Bay.
Profession Sailor 19.
"Sounds like we have a new destination."
DM Kathy Thursday October 18th, 2018 11:52:49 PM Tahni asks for more information, but Daven doesn't have much to give. Once you have clarified that you only want the location of the Middle Seas Death Dragons (remember that the Iron Dragons are taking care of the rest of the cult), he readily tells you that they have taken over a little fishing town called Clowder Bay. He himself has never been to Clowder Bay, and has no further information about it.
Terser asks who and where the captain is. "Cap'n Lifebb," Daven explains. Seeing that doesn't mean anything to you, he elaborates, "the dark elf that disappeared. And I already said I don't know where he went." He says the Bloodkin don't have another floating base.
Rill sends a message to the Lionfish, then he and Fang move to help the slaves.
Jozhur detects no traps associated with the latch, and soon has it open. Inside a hidden compartment, you find Dekkar Lifebb's personal diary.Mostly a list of some pretty heinous actions, written down in gory, explicit detail as if Dekkar wanted to lovingly relive the last, torturous moments of his victims. Throughout the diary is reference to Aaeuukk, and how Dekkar and the kraken met, each having a dream from that most worthy of goddesses, bloody Jancassis. It doesn’t say where Aaeuukk’s lair is.
The compartment also contains a small key, which unlocks a chest in the corner of the cabin. Inside the chest are a Lesser Metamagic Rod of Quicken, a Ring of Evasion, a Bag of Holding Type IV, Plate Armor of the Deep, and approximately 30,000 gp in jewelry, gems, and coin.
Zeoll double-checks to be sure the captives are secure, then thinks about navigating to Clowder Bay. You have a vague idea where it is, and a quick search of the captain's cabin turns up charts that will be helpful in sailing to the exact location.
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) d100=20 ; Friday October 19th, 2018 6:17:22 PM
With everyone on board being taken care of, Terser finds a quiet spot to sit and meditate a bit. He looks inward to ask a question, trying to divine the location of Captain Lifebb.
Divination roll: 20=success
Did Dekkar Lifebb's Word of Recall take him to Clowder Bay?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141+12temp+24temp/144 Friday October 19th, 2018 10:48:39 PM "If we keep this up we'll have an armada in no time"
Tahni makes sure the dwarf is bound tightly, and then moves out of earshot to talk with the party
"Before we head for Clowder Bay I think we have a few things to take care of. First, we need to do something with our new friends here. We should also take a moment to prepare for what may come next. If we are to face that kraken again then a few Freedom of Movement scrolls may come in handy. We've also seen some of the spells our friendly dark-elf can cast so we can prepare for some of those as well"
(MikeK)Bralin (AC36 / T14 / FF31) CMD 35 - HP 157/176) SR 25 vs evil Saturday October 20th, 2018 9:07:01 AM
Bralin eyes the treasure, and, as usual, is tempted by the new items. After a period of contemplation, he decides none are worth parting with the items currently in his possession. He turns his thoughts back to the task at hand.
Having no preparations to make, he leaves that to Tahni, Rill, Zeoll and the others.
As for the prisoners. "We must first know the location of Clowder Bay, and then can determine if any authorities or allies are in route that we may enlist to secure Daven" he replies. "Else, maroon him."
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) Saturday October 20th, 2018 8:21:08 PM
Zeoll says that he could put that quicken rod to good use indeed. Most of his spells are lower level, actually.
He shows the maps to everybody and explains the course he recommends.
He suggests the same deal for newly freed folk and former slavers that they arranged before.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+6=25 ; Sunday October 21st, 2018 9:28:59 AM
Fang already has two rings, a Rod of Quicken, and good armor so she passes on the loot. With nothing better to do she does one last run through the ship to see if they missed anything they should take (perception 25)
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+15=28 ; Sunday October 21st, 2018 5:36:02 PM
Aexana lingers on deck and gazes over the water... Leafy's still not feeling quite well but Aex figures that will pass quickly. As she hears about the story of how Aaeuukk and Dekkar met eachother she wonders what else she could have heard about the Kraken in general... could there be any specifics about their lair? Any type of water or depth of water they favour? What could be their weaknesses?? (know nature 28)
Fact is that when they would see the Kraken resurfacing it will be too late already... perhaps she should be scouting beneath the waves instead!
"Captain, " she asks Zeoll, "Do you think we need to keep an watery eye on what happens below our ships? Perhaps with the keen senses of the dolphin or shark? Last time that Kraken was on top of us before either of us realized it well... we can't have that a second time... "
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d20+13=21 ; d100=50 ; Sunday October 21st, 2018 8:33:26 PM
Rill looks at the charts to see if he can get an idea of how long it will take to sail to this Clowder Bay, praying for a bit of divine guidance first. (Profession Sailor 21) Not quite trusting his navigation skills, he ask for confirmation from the others.
"Does anyone know how long it will take to get to Clowder Bay?"
"We know this Lifebb fellow is a skilled priest, with access to more powerful spells than I possess. He'll also have access to magics and allies in his home town. He undoubtedly will use divination spells to find out information about us as well. Assuming it may take a few days to get there, we can at least cast some of our own.
"Another thought occurs to me. This Dekkar Lifebb is recieving his spells from some souce. We had heard that perhaps this dragon god was some sort of aspect of Gagul. But it was Gargul's emissary that set us to this task, and it seems unlikely that my Lord would provide spells to a creature he opposed. So what diety supports this cleric? Who are we actually dealing with?"
Rill will need to rest before gaining other divining spells, but he can cast his one Divination he memorized for the day, asking "Where in Clowder Bay will we find the home of Dekkar Lifebb?" (Rolled a 50 on this - success!)
DM Kathy Sunday October 21st, 2018 9:45:40 PM Terser finds a quiet place to think, and ponders the question: Did Dekkar Lifebb's Word of Recall take him to Clowder Bay? Your answer is yes.
Tahni remarks that you'll have an armada in no time, but the Blood Reaver isn't like the other ships you've captured. She is a huge warship, requiring a crew of at least 50 to sail. You don't have that many.
Tahni also suggests preparing some scrolls of Freedom of Movement, and perhaps some more things to counter the spells you've already seen.
Bralin wants to know the location of Clowder Bay, but Zeoll is ahead of him. Comeri is not precisely on the way, but it's not too far out of it, either.
Fang takes a last look through the ship, which allows me to detail the gear you took off your defeated foes:
+1 chain shirt (7), +1 daggers (14), masterwork composite longbow (+2 Str) (7), masterwork whip (7), belt of incredible dexterity +2 (7), boots of elvenkind (7), cloak of the manta ray (7), +2 banded mail, +1 unholy heavy crossbow, masterwork dwarven waraxe, masterwork warhammer, belt of physical might +2 (Dex, Con), cloak of resistance +3, efficient quiver, eyes of the eagle, ring of protection +1, +1 returning javelin, masterwork ranseur, belt of physical perfection +2, boots of striding and springing, bracers of armor +4, cloak of resistance +4, dusty rose prism ioun stone, monk's robe, ring of sustenance, vicious amulet of mighty fists, +1 studded leather, sword of subtlety, masterwork dagger, belt of incredible dexterity +2, brooch of shielding, cloak of resistance +5
Aexana wonders whether she should scout underwater as you travel, to try to spot the kraken before it attacks.
Rill asks how long it will take to get to Clowder Bay, and it will in fact take a couple of days. He casts Divination and asks: Where in Clowder Bay will we find the home of Dekkar Lifebb? Your reply: Dekkar Lifebb's home is the Blood Reaver.
Finally, a clarification question. You sent a messenger to the Lionfish, but you arrived on the Fortune's Tide. Are you also signaling Fortune's Tide? Or is the Lionfish supposed to grab them on the way here?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141+12temp+24temp/144 Monday October 22nd, 2018 12:37:05 AM
Tahni looks over the haul. If the party wish to restock and supply in preparation for what lies ahead she is happy to teleport to the Catacombs.
She also has some plans for the blood she scraped from the deck and Jozhur's blade. Scrying on the dark elf would allow her to get a more accurate view of where he is currently hiding. His blood will make it that much harder for him to resist. Just for good measure she may also send him a Nightmare each night.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday October 22nd, 2018 4:38:26 PM
The little greenmage looks at the stockpile of items captured... and another ship though this one is beyond their might to control.
"Those eyes of the eagle might be handy for the time being. One of us will be able to scout a lot better... we can still sell it once we're home. "
Depending on what time of day it is, Aex will make sure to meditate her spells before heading deeper into trouble... And depending on how the Black Lions will travel on, Aex will either scout overhead or beneath the waves... albeit in different shapes above and below.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC36 / T14 / FF31) CMD 35 - HP 157/176) SR 25 vs evil Monday October 22nd, 2018 5:48:56 PM
"Mayhap we can exchange prisoners at Comeri, and bring aboard any willing to crew this vessel?" Bralin wonders as he looks more about the Blood Reaver.
"With a rechristening, this could be a fine base."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Monday October 22nd, 2018 8:06:57 PM
Fang looks over the haul of magic thoughtfully. She could possibly use the cloak of resistance +5, to upgrade her +4. The broach and eyes could be useful if only because she has no such magic items. The AC Ioun stone is interesting, but she's betting there are several in the party who might be interested.
Still she's not really sure how this party handles claiming magic items. She tries to find someone to pull aside and ask about it.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) Monday October 22nd, 2018 8:22:39 PM
Zeoll cannot bring himself to countenance abandoning the Lionfish to make the Blood Reaver into the party base.
"No matterr how harrd we scrrubbed," Zeoll says to Bralin, "I do not think we could get the stink of blood off this devilish vessel." The old taur wrinkles his nose and swishes his tail.
Zeoll agrees that keeping a scout under the ship, whichever ship we use, is a good idea. "Can you locate some dolphins or whales, something smarrt, most excellent Aexana? Ones who we can convince or charrm to serrve as scouts forr us?"
"Failing that, I can try to summon Drini, my Pooka pal, and cast Waterr Brreathing on herr. Orr maybe summon some otherr, morre aquatic, frriend." If Aex cannot summon or call or compel a scout, Zeoll will try to call an aquatic planar ally, or failing that, Drini.
Zeoll thanks his friends for identifying the loot, and he claims one of the Cloaks of the Manta Ray. "I can swap out my cloak with this one as needed, until I can make alterrations enough to wearr both at once."
Zeoll feels less bad about asking Drini to be an underwater scout since he can keep her company. In fact, he sets aside an unclaimed second Cloak of the Manta Ray to bestow on her as well. That means Zeoll is claiming the lesser quick rod and 1 or 2 cloaks of the manta ray.
The captain thanks Tahni for volunteering to go to the Catacombs via teleport, but as for himself, he needs to purchase nothing from the magic shop.
The old taur oversees the setting of the course for Clowder Bay.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141+12temp+24temp/144 Monday October 22nd, 2018 8:30:12 PM "If this is to be something we do quite often, perhaps an awakened animal may be an option?"
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Monday October 22nd, 2018 9:56:23 PM
Jozhur picks up one of the daggers from the pile and tests it's balance in his hand before sheathing it on his belt.
Jozhur agrees with Zeoll about the Lionfish, "She is our home, we've been through a lot on the 'Fish, and she is just the right size."
He spots Fang eyeing some of the items, "No one has claimed the stuff yet. Take whatever might help you lay waste to our enemies."
DM Kathy Monday October 22nd, 2018 10:17:46 PM
You begin picking over the treasure and discussing what to do next. Certainly a trip to the Catacombs should be arranged at some point, in order to sell the excess gear, but it's not necessarily urgent.
[OOC: Although somebody should really start tracking this stuff, if you haven't already.]
In the meantime, some of it may be useful for the task at hand. You discuss strategies for underwater scouting.
You opt to leave the Blood Reaver here for the time being (right? or are you scuttling her?). When the Lionfish arrives, you relocate to her, and eventually (right?) catch up with the Fortune's Tide. With two ships at your disposal you can, if you like, dispatch one for Comeri and sail the other (presumably the Lionfish) to Clowder Bay. You've also still got a ship stashed at Market Island. What's next?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141+12temp+24temp/144 Tuesday October 23rd, 2018 6:05:36 AM "Ok, let's work out who is keeping what. I'm heading to the Catacombs" Tahni gives everyone a chance to keep what they like before she teleports away with the rest. Preparations need to get underway for the inevitable battle with the dark elf.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Tuesday October 23rd, 2018 4:39:18 PM
Rill looks over the combined loot pile, marking things down in a small notebook.
"Ok, ... add in the sword ... 94 magic daggers ... carry the 2 ...wow, that's a lot of loot! Looks like we're good pirates. These Bloodkin were doing pretty well - obviously they found their relationship with this dragon cult profitable.
"Tahni - I would be happy to go with you to help. Anyone else?"
[OOC: I sent out an email. Please respond so I know I have your correct character wealth down, 'cuz it's time to get wealth evened out among the party. If there is anything you want from the loot listed on my linked spreadsheet, let me know as buying it from the loot pile will increase the overall amount everyone gets!]
(MikeK)Bralin (AC36 / T14 / FF31) CMD 35 - HP 157/176) SR 25 vs evil Tuesday October 23rd, 2018 5:46:49 PM
Bralin defers to Zeoll on the state of the Blood Reaver with a nod.
The dwarf also defers to their latest comrade regarding the Cloak +5.
Having no interest, or already possessing, the other items, he is content to cash out.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday October 23rd, 2018 6:48:46 PM "I'd say we scuttle this damned ship... and be gone as soon as these goods are harvested. "
The little greenmage is nervous... she does not like lingering here for so lang... the longer they stay, the bigger the odds are for something to coming after them.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday October 23rd, 2018 7:05:21 PM
Fang claims the +5 cloak and passes on the rest. The party would probably get more value out of the gold from these items than from the items themselves.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Tuesday October 23rd, 2018 9:56:15 PM
Jozhur keeps the +1 dagger he already picked up and also grabs the ioun stone, if no one else is claiming it.
"I'll tag along to the Catacombs, I may want to purchase a thing or two quick."
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) Tuesday October 23rd, 2018 10:54:42 PM
Zeoll winces when there is talk of scuttling the ship. He asks that his friends not forget the former slaves who were freed just moments ago. "Let them have this ship, to use as they see fit, perrhaps to take them home, orr to sell and to split the prroceeds in parrtial compensation forr theirr troubles."
The captured slavers we can take on our ship to Comeri for hard labor, or if we trust some to reform, they can go their way from there. But if they do not agree to their hard labor, Zeoll will execute those who are incorrigible.
Zeoll confers with his friends on the loot division, too.
DM Kathy Wednesday October 24th, 2018 12:07:08 AM Tahni teleports to the Catacombs to sell a whopping great pile of gear. Rill volunteers to go with her. Jozhur also wants to tag along, after claiming a magic dagger and an ioun stone.
Bralin claims no items and has no opinion on the fate of the Blood Reaver.
Aexana votes to scuttle the Blood Reaver as Fang claims a cloak from the loot.
Zeoll wants to turn the Blood Reaver over to the freed slaves, but she is a whacking great warship, and they may have trouble sailing her. Just a reminder: you left the damaged Kestrel at Market Island, and she is so far unclaimed.
These slavers--perhaps not surprisingly--are a lot more hardened than the other Bloodkin crews. Only a few agree to hard labor on Comeri; the rest will need to be executed or possibly marooned somewhere.
In the meantime, your new task will be preparing to approach a fishing village whose population includes evil cultists and innocent bystanders. They might be conveniently labeled, but it seems unlikely. Now might be a good time to start discussing strategies.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Wednesday October 24th, 2018 3:28:45 PM
(OOC: When the DM suggests that you know a foe is recalcitrant and will need to be executed, that's enough for me.)
Rill will use his Probe Psyche ability to peer into the souls of these hardened Bloodkin to confirm that some of them will not turn from their ways. He will share what he learns with the rest of the crew.
"With the Captain's permission and the agreement of the rest of the Black Lions, it seems best that we impose maritime justice for these recalcitrant souls. Should we hang them from the yardarm, or make them walk the plank? I vote yardarm as that seems quicker than drowning."
Assuming there are no other takers of the loot, Rill proceeds with Tahni and others to sell the stuff and also make a purchase or two.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday October 24th, 2018 7:02:47 PM "Zeoll... this is a foul ship... it has been used for who knows what evil deeds. While it sounds noble to give such a ship to these slaves I doubt they will be able to handle it. And on top of that... I'd rather see our sees being rid of such a powerful vessel. "
Aex hates to go in against their captain's judgements... but there's something about this ship that makes the little greenmage rather see it dissapear.
Whtn the aproach of the next villages comes us Aex wonders if it would be interesting to use the same tactics again they used before. Animal shape and perhaps an extra diversion by playing with the weather...
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 24th, 2018 7:09:08 PM
Its grisly work, but there's nothing to be done about it. They certainly can't be left to go back to slavery.
Terser is fine to wait for now, needing some time and cash before knowing what to buy.
Rill, we know Lifebb went to Clowder Bay, but the ship is his home. Can he get back here and surprise us? Or is there some way we can unmake it his home, or disguise it somehow. Otherwise, this ship won't be safe until he's dead.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC36 / T14 / FF31) CMD 35 - HP 157/176) SR 25 vs evil Wednesday October 24th, 2018 7:11:47 PM
Bralin isn't happy. The dwarf folds his arms over his chest, and waits.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday October 24th, 2018 7:21:39 PM "I am no Cleric of Pantheon but I have sworn to fight diseases and I volunteer myself to perform the executions. I consider slavery and those who commit it every bit as much a disease as the plagues my brothers and sisters fight. If these men and women refuse to recant and become a healthy part of society then it is my duty to remove the disease and send them to the judgement of Gargul."
If no one objects then Fang's preferred execution method is a beheading; instant death without the risk of a misjudged rope-length causing an extended, painful death. She's quick, clean, and precise, taking no pleasure in the act but grimly determined to do what she feels is her duty.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) Wednesday October 24th, 2018 8:18:24 PM
Zeoll bows to Fang and his other friends.
It seems we are agreed: Execute the prisoners, bring the freefolk on our ship, and sink the ship. Take the free folk to Comeri and then sail to the cult regional HQ.
He asks his friends if we should send word to the Iron Dragons with what we have discovered?
DM Kathy Wednesday October 24th, 2018 11:22:57 PM
You discuss matters, and eventually arrive at a consensus of sorts. The recalcitrant slavers are executed, and the less said about that, the better. The freed slaves are taken aboard Fortune's Tide. As with other slaves you have freed, some of them have homes they would like to return to; others have nowhere to go and are eager to make a new life on Comeri.
You scuttle the Blood Reaver. Now, if Dekkar Lifebb chooses to teleport back here, he'd better have Water Breathing cast.
You can, if you like, dispatch Fortune's Tide with the freed slaves, and take the Lionfish directly to Clowder Bay. Or you can take both ships to Comeri, although that will be inconvenient for slaves that have homes to return to. How do you want to proceed?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 23/13/20 -- CMD 20 -- HP 141+12temp+24temp/144 Thursday October 25th, 2018 7:16:37 AM
Tahni looks to the captain to see how he wants to proceed. At least they will have a day or two to sail to the bay. Enough time to get some rest in.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC36 / T14 / FF31) CMD 35 - HP 157/176) SR 25 vs evil Thursday October 25th, 2018 6:12:08 PM
Bralin pouts.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Eagle HP115/106 - AC27/23/22 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP101/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+25=38 ; Thursday October 25th, 2018 6:44:36 PM
As the crew sails on, Aex follows the idea to have a scout beneath the waves. In Dolphin shape she swims circles around the ship and tries to keep an eye out on things... 80ft swim speed means she'll be able to cover some territory. Perception 38
Fang (Mitch) HP: 159/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday October 25th, 2018 7:32:25 PM
Fang leaves the choice to the more experienced crewmembers. She cleans up thoroughly during the trip, feeling dirtied by the executions.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Thursday October 25th, 2018 9:26:43 PM
Jozhur puts a hand on Bralins shoulder, "I don't like it either, the fight is over. But the reality is that we need to press on with our task and they cannot be trusted to go to port with the freed slaves as prisoners. I trust Rill's word these slavers will not change their ways, which leaves us little choice."
Jozhur thinks they should send the freed slaves on their way so they can press after Lifebb.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC34; 89of77hp) Thursday October 25th, 2018 9:36:43 PM
Zeoll sides with Jozhur. "Let is be as you suggest, my forrmerr captain!"
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Thursday October 25th, 2018 10:08:45 PM
Rill keeps Status going to keep an eye on Aex. He will work on Commune questions, Scrying and a Divination or two. Any suggestions?
(have Tahni and Rill made the visit to the Catacombs yet?)
Give Me Shelter
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.
Dealings with Dragon Cultists
DM Kathy d20+13=25 ; d20+13=28 ; d20+20=27 ; d20+20=30 ; d20+18=23 ; d20+18=30 ; d20+18=26 ; d20+18=37 ; d20+18=23 ; d20+18=23 ; d20+18=38 ; d20+18=21 ; d20+18=26 ; d20+18=23 ; d20+18=32 ; d20+19=25 ; d20+19=25 ; d20+19=31 ; d8+2=3 ; d8+2=3 ; d6=1 ; d6=5 ; d6=5 ; d6=3 ; 5d8=30 ; 15d6=47 ; d4=1 ; Thursday November 15th, 2018 12:54:14 AM
After some discussion, you decide on a frontal assault. The stealthier members of the party stand clear of the double doors, and Zeoll approaches, boldly calling for entrance. None is forthcoming. However, Zeoll's Chime of Opening does the trick, and the doors swing wide.
They open onto a Great Hall, and the hall is filled with cultists.
Several things happen at once.
Arrows come flying at you. Zeoll is hit twice, for a total of 20 damage.
A spell is cast, and a black miasma spreads, doing damage to Zeoll, Fang, Terser, and Bralin. Having had it cast at you before, you all recognize the effects of an Unholy Blight. You each take 30 damage and are Sickened for 1d4 rounds. If you succeed at a DC 19 Will save, you only take 15 damage and are not sickened.
Another spell is cast. DC 20 Spellcraft check Highlight to display spoiler: {Flame Strike}. A column of flame descends on Zeoll, Fang, Terser, and Bralin. They take 47 damage, DC 18 Reflex save for half.
Another spell is cast. DC 20 Spellcraft check Highlight to display spoiler: {Cloudkill}. Zeoll, Fang, Terser, and Bralin take 1 point of Constitution damage, DC 23 Fort save for half (which in this case is 0).
Another spell is cast. DC 18 Spellcraft check Highlight to display spoiler: {Magic Vestment}. Nothing seems to happen.
Another spell is cast. DC 19 Spellcraft check Highlight to display spoiler: {Freedom of Movement}. Nothing seems to happen.
[OOC: Friends, recall your +2 on your first save of the day from listening to Zeoll's fae ramblings]
Note: Drini is invisible on Zeoll's shoulder. Does the Unholy Blight affect her? How about any of these other spells? If so. I'll roll for her in my next post. Drini is AC21, 22 HP, invisible, fast heal 2, and has +1 saves and the shield other. Note she has SR13 and is neutral in alignment.
Spellcraft checks: 25, 30, 25, 29. Zeoll whispers via message: "Flame Strrike, Cloudkill, Magic Vestment, Frreedom of Movement."
Zeoll takes 20 from arrows. Will 19 Save vs Unholy Blight: 24 passes, takes 15, not sickened Reflex 18 Save vs Flame Strike: 18 passes exactly, takes 23 Fort 23 Save vs Cloudkill: rolls a 14, fails, uses a hero point for a reroll, rolls a 27, passes, takes 0
At this point Zeoll has taken 20+15+23 = 57, blows through all his temp hp, and is at 32. He also takes half of Drini's damage, and that may well put him into the negatives or kill him.
If Zeoll is still up, he takes these actions:
Quickened Prayer -- all enemies in 40 ft make DC26 Will save. Zeoll and allies gain a +1 luck bonus on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks, while each of your foes takes a –1 penalty on such rolls.
Zeoll considers retreat and saving his own hide, but hey, is that what a Dragon Hero would do?
Free action to whisper to friends: "Terrserr, Brralin, Fang, anybody? Any of you guys want to dim doorr inside behind enemy lines to the middle of those casterrs?" Zeoll can take himself, Drini, and two others.
Move action to become invisible via domain power.
Standard action to blip himself, Drini, and the first two friends to say yes and move close enough to touch.
Zeoll activates his magic cape (no spellcraft to tell what he is doing) and blips deep into the keep ... moved on the map.
DM Sanity: Currently on Zeoll: Mage Armor, Magic Circle, Prayer
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command, command x3 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat, restoration, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally Sorc Spells: 1: 4 of 8 used (mage armor x4 - Zeoll, Drini, Leafy, one other?) 2: 0 of 8 used (see invis) 3: 0 of 7 used 4: 0 of 4 used Other resources: Cape: 0 of 1 used Horns: 2 of 4 used Scroll of Shield Other used Ext Meta: 0 of 3 used Quick Meta: 0 of 3 used SHIELD status: UP Invis: used 0 Laugh Touch: used 0 Hero Points: used 1 of 3
REMEMBER TO ADD YOUR PRAYER BONUS!
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d8=3 ; d8=7 ; d8=5 ; d8=2 ; Thursday November 15th, 2018 5:44:28 AM "Well that escalated quickly"
Zeoll looks to be hurt real bad and things only just started. Tahni quickly tries to get him back into the action.
---------------------- Spellcraft checks: Autopass Free action: Retrieve Quicken Rod from Glove of Storing Swift action: Cast Spectral Hand Standard action: Cast CCW on Zeoll, healing him for 32pts Move: Move to the side of the doorway and out of line of sight if possible.
Sorry, I think the map got accidentally put askew. I can't tell where Tahni is or how far away she is from Zeoll
DM Kathy Thursday November 15th, 2018 8:14:49 AM
[I'm not sure what happened to the map; it's fixed now.]
[The spells would all affect Drini, except that being Neutral, she'd only take 15 damage from the Unholy Blight; DC 19 Will save for half. She is not Sickened. All the casters are high enough level that they auto-succeed on the SR.]
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 d6=4 ; d6=4 ; d6=2 ; d6=5 ; d6=4 ; d6=6 ; d6=1 ; d6=4 ; d6=1 ; d6=3 ; 15d6=65 ; Thursday November 15th, 2018 1:26:25 PM
(I thought we were outside in the rain, in front of a door.)
"Ugh - these guys. There's a bunch of them too. Let's see what we can do about that."
Though Rill can no longer see into the room with the Cloudkill in place, he knows what was there and casts a Blade Barrier in the room with the bad guys. (Looks like I caught 9 that will take 65 points of damage, DC 24 Reflex for half.)
He moves across the room, careful to avoid the poisonous mist, and will do a healing burst to our damaged party (healed for 32 points.)
"Hey Zeoll, can you use your Message to get word to Aex that we're under attack? Also, we should all keep an eye out for anyone coming in behind us. 'Cept for Aex that is."
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 148/176) d20+22=35 ; d20+12=28 ; d20+22=24 ; Thursday November 15th, 2018 7:07:19 PM
[Will Save 35 - 15 hp damage Reflex Save 28 - 23 - 10 Fire Res. = 13 hp damage Fort Save 24 - no damage]
Bralin fights off the nastier effects of the spells.
"Aye", he responds to Zeoll's dim door suggestion.
The dwarf casts a spell of his own [Shield of Faith], and draws his axe.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 147/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+18=32 ; d20+12=29 ; d20+19=25 ; Thursday November 15th, 2018 7:23:04 PM
Fang mostly avoids the effects of all 3 spells (32 will, 29 reflex, 25 fort). Though unable to see through the cloud she remains calm, casting Divine Power (+2 hit, damage, Str checks, 8 hp) and quickened entropic shield (granting 20% miss chance to ranged attacks). "Get me close so that my axe may end this quickly." she tells Zeoll.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+13=25 ; Thursday November 15th, 2018 7:39:17 PM
Soo many things happen all at once... Aex in monkey shape decided to go scale the keep untill her friends just barge through the front door. Not being near when the fun starts Aex takes no damage at all.
The moment she walks in it all becomes very clear... she drops her staff so that it can transform again to the treant. She notices the blade barrier being cast inside. Aex decides to make a concentric circle of fire aroudn the blade batter. Who knows it might just push some of the cultists to run from the fire and into the blades or vice versia.
Wall of fire, spell resistance 25. The heat of the flames bursts towards the inside. Already several man are either engulfed in flames or at least affected by the fire or smoke.
Problem is the corridor isn't too big at all... so it remains unclear if she'll fit through. In any case she's unable to get close...
DM Kathy d20+5=9 ; d10=4 ; d20+5=21 ; d20+5=6 ; d20+5=23 ; d20+5=22 ; d20+4=18 ; d20+4=11 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+4=11 ; d20+13=17 ; d20+19=37 ; d20+13=21 ; d20+13=30 ; d20+13=30 ; d20+13=16 ; d20+13=17 ; d20+13=23 ; d20+10=11 ; d20+10=13 ; d20+13=14 ; Friday November 16th, 2018 12:47:58 AM Zeoll casts Prayer. He turns invisible, then uses Dimension Door to move into the room. [Unfortunately, due to the map mix-up, I'm not sure where Zeoll moved.]
Tahni conjures a Spectral Hand and uses it to heal Zeoll.
[OOC: You are outside in the rain in front of a door. I tried to draw a map, and failed miserably, so then I looked online for something kind of close to what I had in mind. The "room" you guys are in is like a front path or something.]
Rill heals the party and puts up a Blade Barrier. Many of the cultists who make their saves appear to take no damage at all; they're all nimble and evade-y.
Bralin casts Shield of Faith and agrees to Dimension Door with Zeoll.
Fang casts Divine Power and agrees to Dimension Door with Zeoll.
Aexana wants to cast a Wall of Fire[, but she has a problem: she doesn't have line of sight into the building. Rill was able to cast his Blade Barrier because he saw into the room before the Cloudkill was cast, so he knew where to place it. But Aexana was climbing the wall when the door opened; she hasn't seen into the room yet and now the Cloudkill is blocking her view.
So, Zeoll, Bralin, and Fang are Dimension Dooring in, but I'm not sure where. We haven't heard from Terser or Jozhur (unless they posted while I'm posting). Aexana needs a different action. So, with so much unresolved, I'm holding the bad guy actions until the next DM post.
If you need to post your actions, or change your actions, please do so. If you've already posted actions, then you still need to post something, but please don't post new actions because it's not your turn yet. :)
Fang (Mitch) HP: 147/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Friday November 16th, 2018 8:36:18 AM
Fang manages to squeeze an epic song and dance number into a single round along with her actions. Seriously, it's the most amazing thing you've ever seen despite being less than 6 seconds long. (I'll probably delete this and make a real post later :P)
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+33=44 ; Friday November 16th, 2018 2:33:49 PM Wow, that's a lot of bad guys. Jozhur fetches an invisibility potion from bag and chugs it down, then takes a step forward. His best way to help would be to slip in behind those casting spells.
Stealth: 64 with invisibility bonus
Effects: Invisibility (round 1/20) Prayer
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34/34, channel 5/5) d20+15=28 ; d20+22=34 ; d20+16=19 ; d20+23=32 ; d20+23=33 ; d10+16=22 ; Friday November 16th, 2018 5:21:23 PM Saves: Will 19 - 28 pass Reflex 18 - 19 pass Con 23 - 34 pass 39 damage, 32 heals Current AC - 20, Current HP 253/260, rage rounds 1 FANG, JOZHUR, BRALIN, LEAFY, TREANT - can all choose to get greater rage (+6STR/+6CON, +3 vs WILL saves, -2AC)
Terser steps forward out of the gas, bellowing so hard that it clears out of his lungs before it can do him harm (rage on). All those who would enslave others, tremble in fear! The Black Lions have come for you!
He then shoves his glaive straight forward into the nearest guard's belly, driving him backwards and into the wall of blades so conveniently placed by Rill (35 vs CMB - 8 damage and pushes back 10 feet if I exceeded by 5).
Additionally, the first enemy to approach him will get a quick slash to the face. (unexpected strike) 36vsAC for 22 damage
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Friday November 16th, 2018 6:59:51 PM
There are those moments where the situation is so intense, time just seems to stand still. For Rill, this is one of those times.
"Zeoll - be careful my friend. I may not be able to save you from across the room."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 Friday November 16th, 2018 11:08:09 PM "Um... wow" Tahni's jaw drops as Terser goes all dwarf on these guys.
As soon as the doors open Aex jumps down (she has a feather fall ring) and runs into the keep after the others... she closes the lines. Hearing all the commotion in front of her she drops her staff for the treant to appear and takes a few steps towards the wall.
Behind her there's a statue of some sorts? Anything special about it?? Not that it is animated I suppose?!?
Leafy nor the Treant can get any futher and the foul fumes ahead of her are very annoying. Since her friends are running forward it's too late to use some wind to have the cloud affect the guards.
Jozhur pulls out a potion and drinks it, becoming invisible.
Terser steps up to engage the closest guard. However, the guard had an action readied, so before Terser can attack, the guard attacks him. He hits, and Terser takes 20 damage. Then Terser shoves him backward through the Blade Barrier.
Aexana joins her friends after summoning the Staff Treant.
[Since Cayzle hasn't posted, I'm going to do what DMs are never supposed to do, and move the Dimension Door characters myself. If it was just Zeoll, I'd leave him there, but he's taking Bralin and Fang, too, and it's not fair to make them wait.]
The Cloudkill moves. It engulfs Leafy, but Leafy is immune to poison, so he is unaffected.
The guards step up to engage Terser. The first one takes an unexpected slash to the face. Then he and his pals attack. Terser is hit 4 times for a total of 78 damage. [Let me know if I need to break that out.]
The two remaining guards move to fire their bows at Bralin, but they don't come close to hitting him.
The archers open fire, one each on Terser, Bralin, Fang, and Zeoll. Terser is hit 3 times for 23 damage, plus 14 nonlethal damage. Bralin is hit once for 7 damage plus 6 nonlethal damage. Fang and Zeoll are not hit.
Two cultist skirmishers move up to Terser, provoking attacks of opportunities. Then they attack him. Both hit, one critically. Terser takes 34 damage, and will bleed 2d6 damage each turn until healed. Another skirmisher fires his bow, but misses. The remaining skirmishers only move.
One of the cult priests casts a spell. DC 20 Spellcraft Highlight to display spoiler: {Mass Cure Light Wounds}. Nothing seems to happen.
Another of the priests casts a spell. DC 22 Spellcraft Highlight to display spoiler: {Power Word Blind}. Zeoll is blinded for 1d4+1 minutes, no save.
The mage casts a spell. DC 19 Spellcraft Highlight to display spoiler: {Dimension Door}. She and several skirmishers pop out from behind the blade barrier to land near Zeoll, Fang, and Bralin.
An especially angry-looking cultists comes through the Blade Barrier to attack Terser. He scores a critical hit, and he's wielding a Nine Lives Stealer. Terser takes 17 damage, and must make a DC 20 Fortitude save or be slain on the spot!
Another cultists priest--hey, look, it's your old pal Dekkar Lifebb--casts a spell. DC 22 Highlight to display spoiler: {Blasphemy}. Zeoll, Bralin, and Fang need to make a DC 23 Will save. If they fail, they are dazed for one round, weakened by 4 points of Strength for 6 rounds, and paralyzed for 7 minutes. If they make their save, they are weakened by 4 points of Strength for 6 rounds and paralyzed for 1 round (and not dazed at all).
The last cultist priest casts a spell. DC 24 Spellcraft Highlight to display spoiler: {Energy Drain}. Fang is hit by a think, black ray, and gains 5 negative levels.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d8=2 ; d8=8 ; d8=4 ; d8=5 ; Monday November 19th, 2018 5:37:21 AM
These guys mean serious business.
Splitting up to attack these guys from both sides might not have worked the way they wanted. Tahni recognises all the spells cast however can only deal with one thing at a time. She heals Terser a little and then starts summoning some aid.
"Plans anyone?"
Spellcraft checks: Autopass Swift action: Cast CCW on Terser. Terser is healed for 34pts Full round action: Cast Gtr Immortal Summons
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC?? invis, paralyzed; 53of77hp) d20+10=28 ; d20+10=24 ; d20+6=14 ; d20+20=28 ; Monday November 19th, 2018 9:10:04 AM
Last round ... spells on Drini. She has saves with adds at Fort +6, Ref +10, Will +8. +2 on first check.
Will 19 Save vs Unholy Blight: 28 passes, takes 7 (4 to Drini, 3 to Zeoll), not sickened Reflex 18 Save vs Flame Strike: 24 passes exactly, takes 23 (12 to Drini, 11 to Zeoll) Fort 23 Save vs Cloudkill: rolls a 14, fails, She has 4-6 hit dice and thus dies on a failed save.
:-(
Shield other damage subtracts 14 from Zeoll's 32, leaving him at 18. 32 from Tahni brings him to 50.
Then he does his teleport and invisibility. And cures one point from his ring. 51 hp.
The next round, post missed, Zeoll mourns his fae friend. Cures one point from his ring. 52 hp.
Then Zeoll is blinded and has to make a DC23 will save. He rolls a 28, no prob, but he still loses 4 str for 6 rounds and is paralyzed. Actually, he rolls a 29 with his own prayer spell. BTW, Kathy, were any enemies affected by the baleful part of the prayer spell? -1 on saves, checks, damage, etc.
Being paralyzed, there is not much Zeoll can do, but he can turn invisible, and does so. He also cures a point of damage with his ring. 53 hp.
DM Sanity: Currently on Zeoll: Mage Armor, Magic Circle, Prayer
Cleric Spells: (underlined = cast) (spell DCs in parentheses) 0: guidance, create water, light, mending; 1: command, command x3 (24), det evil, obsc mist; elf vision 2: calm emo x2 (25), nemesis insight, hold person (25), zone of truth (25); faerie fire 3: loc obj, prayer (26), sum mon III, water walk (2 slots); glibness 4: comune w/ nat, restoration, sum mon iv; lesser planar ally Sorc Spells: 1: 4 of 8 used (mage armor x4 - Zeoll, Drini, Leafy, one other?) 2: 0 of 8 used (see invis) 3: 0 of 7 used 4: 0 of 4 used Other resources: Cape: 0 of 1 used Horns: 2 of 4 used Scroll of Shield Other used Ext Meta: 0 of 3 used Quick Meta: 0 of 3 used SHIELD status: UP Invis: used 2 Laugh Touch: used 0 Hero Points: used 1 of 3
REMEMBER TO ADD YOUR PRAYER BONUS!
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34/34, channel 5/5) d100=81 ; d100=8 ; d20+26=32 ; d10+16=24 ; d20+23=31 ; d20+23=36 ; d20+18=30 ; 3d10+28=51 ; d10+28=34 ; d10+28=38 ; d20+26=43 ; Monday November 19th, 2018 3:14:40 PM DR over 10 hits reduces damage taken by 10, ring of regen heals 1 and negates bleed, armor of fortitude negates one of the crits (I think the life steal one, since it was second, so dropped the 2nd d8) Total Damage Taken - 127 Also - just checking that the sneak attackers have at least 11 levels of rogue, else they can't sneak on Terser 2nd AoO vs AC32 for 24 damage Current AC - 20, Current HP 126/260, rage rounds 2, haste used 1
Guards with reach weapons? Unacceptable! That's Terser's thing. Still, knocking the guard back through the blades seemed to work pretty well. He decides to keep that up. After slashing a few of the others around him first, of course. He draws some speed from his quicker ancestors and lays about him.
He strikes out at the rogue to his immediate left three times. AC30 for 51, AC35 for 34, AC29 for 38
With his last swing, he tries to push another of the guards with reach weapons back. 43 vs CMD - 8 damage and pushed back 1 square + 1/5 the check exceeded by Then he steps just back out of range, so they can't surround him so effectively.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 136/176) d20+20=24 ; Monday November 19th, 2018 6:32:52 PM
[Will Save 24]
Bralin pops into the midst of people. Arrows ping off his armor as he seeks a foe. And then that spell hits again, and he finds himself unable to move.
---
Conditions: -4 STR (1/6) Paralyzed (1/1) 6 of the damage is nonlethal
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday November 19th, 2018 7:29:48 PM
Oh no... splitting up probably wasn't the best thing to do... but let's assume that whoever can jump out also has a way to jump back...
"Not the most logical place for this, but... let's try! Terser hold on!!"
Squeezing in between Jozhur and Tahni to get a clear line of sight at the door, Aex casts Control Winds (CL19) just a few feet in front of Terser! She creates wind blast that will blow those on the other side of the door towards the Blade Barrier... The wind roars up to a tornado blast strong enough to uproot large trees. Aex hopes it will push back the gaurds and who knows will make some getting tangled up in the Blade barrier. Every creature inside the wind need to make a Fort save DC25 each turn or be affected by the tornado wind.
Leafy and the Treant blink their eyes at the foul cloud but wait to move on untill Aex says it's all clear.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Monday November 19th, 2018 8:37:51 PM
Invisible Jozhur takes another step forward and downs his last potion of shield, waiting for the Aex's wind to die down. He's itching to get into the fray, they have quite the fight on their hands and need to thin out the enemy ranks.
-----------------------------------------
Active effects: Invisible: round 2/20 Shield: round 1/10 Prayer
Current AC: 30 (34 vs opportunity attacks)
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 15d6=71 ; Monday November 19th, 2018 9:15:11 PM
Dang it! Rill can sense his friends are paralyzed. He laments the decision to split the party, but his friends made their own decision and are capable.
"Hang on Terser, we have your back." Rill will cast a quickened (metamagic rod) Flame Strike on the 5 before Terser. (71 fire damage, DC 23 Reflex save for half, feel free to delete the red shape on the map.) Then he moves 5' and touches Terser with a Heal for 150 points of healing.
"Our friends are in a bad situation back there. If you all want to group up near me, I can get us to the back of the room to get the band back together."
Bralin and Zeoll are paralyzed, although Zeoll does manage to turn invisible.
Jozhur drinks a potion of Shield.
Terser dispatches the skirmisher to his left and sends another guard through the Blade Barrier. He steps back out of the keep and into the rain.
Rill, lamenting the party's decision to split up, heals Terser and casts a Flame Strike. The good news is, the guy who made his save does not have Evasion, so they all took some damage.
Aexana casts Control Winds, and begins trying to push the cultists through and into the Blade Barrier.
The Cloudkill continues to move, although it's still only affecting Leafy and the Staff Treant.
One of the guards is blown back through the Blade Barrier and shredded. Another is blown backward but stops short of the Blade Barrier. He scrambles to his feet and moves laterally, away from the barrier. A skirmisher is likewise blown back, but not into the Blade Barrier. He, too, gets to his feet and moves laterally. The guy with the Nine Lives Stealer makes his save, but also moves laterally out of the wind, then toward the back of the room, skirting the Blade Barrier.
The remaining guards re-position themselves. Skirmishers step up to surround Fang. Two can attempt a coup de grace; the other two make regular attacks. Fang takes 23 damage, and must succeed on a DC 33 Fortitude check or be killed. Then she takes 30 damage, and must succeed on a DC 40 Fortitude check or be killed. Assuming she survives that, she takes 44 more damage from two additional hits.
The cultists inside the Blade Barrier seem to be re-positioning themselves.
One of the priests begins casting a spell. Spellcraft DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Summon Monster V}. Nothing happens immediately.
Another priest begins casting a spell. Spellcraft DC 18 Highlight to display spoiler: {Prayer}. Nothing seems to happen.
The mage casts a spell. Spellcraft DC 19 Highlight to display spoiler: {Dimension Door}. She pops back inside the Blade Barrier.
Dekkar Lifebb casts a spell. A second Blade Barrier springs up, this one right where Terser is standing! Terser takes 55 damage, DC 22 Reflex save for half.
The last priest begins casting a spell. Spellcraft DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Insect Plague}. Nothing seems to happen yet.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 147/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+16=23 ; d20+19=23 ; d20+19=22 ; Monday November 19th, 2018 11:17:10 PM
Fang makes her save (23) and then gets stabbed a lot. And dies.
Rill (MarkB) HP 128/128 - AC 26/16/24 CMD 24 Tuesday November 20th, 2018 1:41:33 AM
Rill's heart sinks as he senses Fang's demise. Rill has failed. His face is a mask grim determination. As he moves, he shouts, "Fang's dead. Bralin and Zeoll may be next. We're going to them.
"Terser, to me. Aex - I can't take your plant friends, so, unless you can bring them in some way, they stay. In addition to our party, I can take one more medium sized creature."
Rill will pause to let Terser move to him and let Aex somehow deal with her plants. Then he will cast Greater Teleport, and take Jozhur, Terser, Tahni and Aex (and perhaps her staff or a medium sized plant.) Once there, Rill casts a quickened Wall of Stone to hopefully close things off a bit where it intersects the Blade Barrier.
(The Wall of Stone is the black line. It is 10' high and runs 70'.)
(I moved Rill on the map. Terser, Jozhur, Tanni, Aex - if you go with Rill, feel free to place your PC next to Rill as a starting point, and go from there.)
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d20+13=27 ; d8=1 ; d8=1 ; d8=2 ; d8=4 ; d8=5 ; d8=7 ; d8=8 ; d20+19=37 ; d6+4=5 ; d4+1=5 ; d4+1=4 ; d4+1=5 ; d4+1=5 ; d4+1=5 ; Tuesday November 20th, 2018 5:00:06 AM
Tahni's summoning spell finishes just in time. Amith - her jyoti friend - has returned. Amith takes a look towards the battle, and then looks back to Tahni and raises an eyebrow
She can sense his mood. "Yes, yes. I know. I only call when there's trouble"
Fang has taken a big hit though and needs help.
Tahni steps next to Rill ready to teleport but decides to try and disrupt those casters as much as she can. She starts off with a Magic Missile at whichever caster it was that was trying to summon something. Best to disrupt him before he finishes that spell and causes more trouble for the party.
Next up is to deal with that group trapped in the Blade Barrier. Tahni casts a Black Tentacles spell and lays a Stinking Cloud on top of it. That should give the party some cover to regroup and pick off the ones outside the blades.
Amith sighs and flies around the group of people to finish atop Bralin. He's now close enough to get Fang a prod.
----------------
Tahni Spellcraft checks: Autopass -- Move: Move next to Rill for the teleport -- Swift: Use Rod to cast Magic Missile. Target the caster casting SMIV. Caster takes 29pts damage and hopefully might lose his spell -- Standard: Use Spell Synthesis to Cast two spells: Black Tentacles AND Stinking Cloud. Both cast over the same area circled by the Blade Barrier. ---- Black Tentacles: CMB to grapple: 37. Anyone grappled takes 5pts damage and gains the Grappled condition. It is also difficult terrain. ---- Stinking Cloud: Fort Save vs DC21 or gain the Nauseated Condition. The fog also obscures all sight, including darkvision, beyond 5 feet.
It's possible that anyone affected by both may effectively be trapped (Grappled can't move. Nauseated can't take standard actions to escape the grapple)
Amith: (summoned right next to Rill at the start of the round) --Move: Fly around behind Zeoll and then into the square above Bralin so as to avoid any AoO --Standard: Defensively cast Breath of Life on Fang. Concentration check: 27=Pass! No AoO. Fang is healed for 26pts and brought back to life!
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+22=30 ; d20+22=26 ; d20+16=21 ; d6+4=9 ; 2d6=7 ; 6d6=22 ; d6+4=7 ; 2d6=3 ; 6d6=21 ; d20+20=34 ; d4+2=3 ; 6d6=27 ; d6+3=9 ; 2d6=7 ; 6d6=11 ; Tuesday November 20th, 2018 11:20:18 AM
Frustrated he was cut off from the others, and angered when he hears Fang has been killed, invisible Jozhur reaches out and grabs Aex.
When they pop into the room, Jozhur sees none other than Dekkar. Best give him something immediate to worry about. Jozhur's shadow moves moves along underground and emerges to flank with him.
---------------------------------------------------------- Was Aex within a 5' step of Jozhur? If not, only use the first attack and it hits AC31. Forgot haste/two weapon modifiers in rolls.
First attack (from invisible) hits AC29: 9 damage, 7 if evil, 22 sneak damage (38) Haste attack hits AC25: 7 damage, 3 if evil, 21 sneak damage (31) Off hand attack hits AC 34: 3 damage plus 27 sneak damage (30) Second main hits AC 21: 27 damage if it somehow hits
Each sneak attack hits deals 2 strength damage.
Active effects: Prayer Shield (round 2/10) Boots of haste used: (1/10) Current AC 31
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34/34, channel 5/5) d20+15=16 ; d20+23=27 ; d20+18=37 ; d20+18=34 ; d20+13=22 ; 3d10+28=46 ; d10+28=29 ; d10+28=33 ; d10+28=35 ; d10+28=31 ; Tuesday November 20th, 2018 4:09:37 PM
Terser certainly wasn't expecting a second wall of blades and takes the full grunt of them. nat 1 Still, he's quickly whisked away to the back of the room, and after quickly assessing the situation, starts hacking away at the men who just cut down Fang.
Current AC - 20, Current HP 206/260, rage rounds 3, haste used 1
As seems to be often the case, the first strike after a jump is misaligned, but the second is right on the money.
attack vs AC 27 - 46 damage if it hits 2nd attack crit AC37- confirm to AC34 - 97 damage 3rd attack - AC 22 for 31 damage
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T19 / FF32) CMD 35 - HP 137/176) d20+21=36 ; d10+11=14 ; d6=4 ; d20+16=28 ; d10+11=19 ; d6=4 ; d20+11=23 ; d10+11=20 ; d6=3 ; Tuesday November 20th, 2018 6:24:43 PM
Bralin regains use of his limbs, takes a step toward the rest of the fray, and attacks the guard facing him.
-- Full Attack on Guard. Atk 1 hits ac 36 for 18 hp damage (4 cold) Atk 2 hits ac 28 for 23 hp damage (4 cold) Atk 3 hits ac 23 for 23 hp damage (3 cold)
Conditions: -4 STR (2/6) 6 of the damage is nonlethal
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+19=37 ; d20+19=21 ; d20+19=37 ; d20+19=28 ; d20+19=22 ; 3d6=5 ; 3d6=14 ; 3d6=15 ; 3d6=10 ; 3d6=11 ; Tuesday November 20th, 2018 6:29:47 PM
All things happen in a flash now and there's not enough time for Aex to see how to get Leafy and her Treant to the back of the room...
"Defend the rea.... ooohaaaa... " and with that Jozhur pulls her with him... a split second later she finds herself at the back of the room.
To the south entrance her tornado still blows - but that one is no longer affecting anyone...
"I can do that just once more... " Aex hisses and moves 15ft to the East so she can look beyond the wall of stone. However there's an additional stinking cloud and tentacles endangering those inside the barrier. Any tornado's she summons would only blow away the cloud.
So instead she casts Ball Lightning (CL19). 5 lightning balls spring to live and surround the nearest enemy.
Ball 1 - SR37 - REF Save DC24 to negate - Damage 5 Ball 2 - SR21 - REF Save DC24 to negate - Damage 14 Ball 3 - SR37 - REF Save DC24 to negate - Damage 15 Ball 4 - SR28 - REF Save DC24 to negate - Damage 10 Ball 5 - SR22 - REF Save DC24 to negate - Damage 11
Leafy and the staff Treant look around in the antechamber... there were two corridors to the left and right. So they decide to have a quick look around instead.
RillTeleports the majority of the group to join the others, then casts a Wall of Stone to seal off part of the room.
TahniMagic Missiles the caster, who does, indeed, lose his spell. Then she uses her Spell Synthesis ability to place a Black Tentacles and a Stinking Cloud inside the Blade Barrier. She also finishes her summons, and Amith heals Fang as mentioned.
Jozhur and his shadow move to flank....actually that's the High Priest, not Dekkar. Either way, you hit him and he takes damage. Jozhur is now visible, and the High Priest loses the spell he was casting.
Terser takes out one of the skirmishers and starts in on another.
Bralin takes out another skirmisher.
Aexana casts Ball Lightning, also targeting the High Priest. He is a cleric, and his Reflex save is not good. Leafy and the Staff Treant explore the area.
The Cloudkill keeps moving, and hopefully runs out before it gets to the village. I've taken it off the map since it's no longer a factor.
The Black Tentacles grapple everyone except the guy with Freedom of Movement up. The Stinking Cloud affects some of the cultists who turn green with nausea.
The mage, who is not nauseated, succeeds at her concentration check and blips out of the Blade Barrier, bringing some of her companions with her. She lets it be known that there is no way she's going back in there!
Freedom of Movement dude casts a Wind Wall across the area of the Stinking Cloud, trying to blow some of it away. Everybody else inside the Blade Barrier is a little busy.
The cultists outside the Blade Barrier but behind the Wall of Stone gather to try to climb the wall.
The cultists who moved with the mage now move to engage Aexana and Rill. Rill is hit twice for 33 damage; Aexana is not hit.
Dekkar Lifebb casts a spell. Spellcraft DC 24 Highlight to display spoiler: {Time Stop}. The next thing you know, he's standing on the other side of the room, next to the mage. Bralin takes 59 points of damage; if he succeeds at a DC 21 Fortitude save he only takes 27 damage. Jozhur must make a DC 25 Fortitude save or take 170 points of damage.
The High Priest takes a 5-foot step and casts a spell. Spellcraft DC 23 Highlight to display spoiler: {Fire Storm}. Tahni, Rill, Terser, and Jozhur take 53 points of fire damage; DC 24 Reflex save for half. If you fail your save, you also catch on fire.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 11d6=35 ; d20+19=30 ; d6+4=5 ; d20+10=16 ; d20+10=11 ; d20+10=17 ; 4d6=11 ; 4d6=17 ; Wednesday November 21st, 2018 4:00:50 AM
Amith turns and gives a half-smirk half-grin to Tahni
"What do you want, a medal? There are things still attacking us!" she yells at him.
Amith rolls his eyes and flies to the top of the stone wall. From there he has a good view. He takes a deep breath and then exhales over the enemies before him
"FANG! Step closer to me!" Tahni urges Fang to take a 5ft step closer to her
----------------------------- Tahni -- Black Tentacles: CMB to grapple: 30 (35 if they were already grappled). Anyone grappled takes 5pts damage and gains the Grappled condition. It is also difficult terrain. -- Free: 5ft step closer to Fang. -- Standard: Assuming Fang does, Tahni will defensively cast Heal on her. Concentration check autopass. Fang will be healed for 150pts -- Swift: Cast Scorching Ray at the baddie next to Zeoll ---- Hit Touch AC16 for 11pts fire damage ---- Hit Touch AC11. Nat 1 = Miss ---- Hit Touch AC17 for 17pts fire damage -- Move: Use Fey Hideaway ability to turn Invisible.
Amith -- Move: Fly to top of wall -- Standard: Use Breath Weapon. 60ft cone hits every enemy south of the wall. 35pts fire damage. Ref Save vs DC19 for half.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 d20+15=23 ; d20+15=18 ; Wednesday November 21st, 2018 5:34:45 AM Whoops... forgot the Ref save: 23=Fail. Use Improved Lighting Reflexes to reroll: 18=Fail. Ugh. Wasn't meant to be
EDIT: Wait! Zeoll's yammering gave Tahni a +2 bonus on her first save of the day. That 23 should actually be a 25! That's a pass and with Evasion no damage! Woot!
Bralin absorbs more damage from that magic user, but overcomes most of it. Noting the skirmishers are of little consequence, the dwarf moves to engage someone who looks more formidable.
Bralin steps along the wall and attacks
-- Move and attack whoever this guy is he's standing next to. Spring attack feat avoids AoO, if that comes into play. Improved Vital Strike
Atk hits ac 40 for 26 hp damage (4 cold)
Conditions: -4 STR (3/6) 6 of the damage is nonlethal
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+19=24 ; d20+19=21 ; d20+19=28 ; d20+19=37 ; d20+19=35 ; 3d6=10 ; 3d6=11 ; 3d6=9 ; 3d6=11 ; 3d6=14 ; Wednesday November 21st, 2018 5:40:44 PM
Argh... made my post, hit submit and then it says no posting privileges... must have lost connection during typing somehow.
Aex is not too happy to find herself suddenly at the front-line! That's not her spot!! She makes a 5ft step back and with a move action she sends the 5 lightning balls into the cleric once again.
Ball 1 - SR24 - REF Save DC24 to negate - Damage 10 Ball 2 - SR21 - REF Save DC24 to negate - Damage 11 Ball 3 - SR28 - REF Save DC24 to negate - Damage 9 Ball 4 - SR37 - REF Save DC24 to negate - Damage 11 Ball 5 - SR35 - REF Save DC24 to negate - Damage 14
(first set of rolls were much better :-(
Next Aex feels it's time to put some space between the Black Lions and those cultists... Once again she casts Control Winds (CL19) She centres her spell on the cloud affected cultist and makes it blow South towards the blade barriers near the centre. All those in the area of effect need to make a Fort DC25 or be affected by the wind. (no SR)
With some luck it buys the Lions a moment to catch their breath and patch up the injured and with even more luck a few more cultists are shredded to pieces...
Outside the great hall Leafy and the Treant gaze at the blade barrier that stops them from entering the fray... then suddenly their leaves begin to rustle in the wind...
"She's at it again..." Leafy smiles...
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+12=19 ; d20+12=32 ; d20+19=39 ; d20+20=30 ; d20+20=35 ; d20+20=32 ; d20+15=31 ; d20+14=19 ; d6+4=6 ; d6+4=7 ; d6+4=9 ; d4+3=6 ; 2d6=5 ; 2d6=6 ; 2d6=8 ; 6d6=27 ; 6d6=26 ; 6d6=25 ; 6d6=14 ; d6=2 ; Wednesday November 21st, 2018 6:46:54 PM
Jozhur feels that all too familiar feeling of something tugging at his soul. He summons all his internal strength and manages to shrug it off. The nimble human manages to completely avoid the fire damage.
Cut off from his intended target, Jozhur turns to help Bralin with his foe.
-------------------------- First fort save fails, use last hero point to reroll: passes with a 32 Reflex save: 39 (no damage due to evasion)
5' step, shadow moves to flank Full hasted attack, each successful sneak attack deals 2 strength damage
First attack hits AC 30: 6 damage, +5 if evil, 27 sneak damage (38) Haste attack AC35: 7 damage, +6 if evil, 26 sneak damage (39) Second main hand AC 32: 8 damage, +8 if evil, 25 sneak damage (41) Off hand hits AC 31: 6 damage, 14 sneak damage.
Shadow's touch attack hits AC 19, 2 strength damage
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Wednesday November 21st, 2018 6:47:39 PM
Not sure what the little blue balls are on the map, can Jozhur move there relatively safely?
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 d20+14=19 ; d20+14=25 ; d20+14=24 ; Wednesday November 21st, 2018 7:44:14 PM
(DM - Holy Grail reference FTW)
"Amith, nice save!" Rill is relieved that Fang is alive, but we're not out of the woods yet. He's impressed this angelic helper can stand on the edge of a 3" thick wall. Must be the wings.
Rill's not sure what the first spell was, but the second quickly becomes obvious. Thanks to Zeoll's story, he makes the save and only takes half damage from the fire. Then he takes a 5' step and casts Holy Aura, enveloping everyone (including the Shadow and Amith) in a brilliant radiance. (Everyone has SR 25, AC and Save bonuses, mental protection, anyone striking you must make a DC 26 Fort save or be blind.)
Finally, he casts a quickened Blindness on the mage across the room. (DC 21 Fort save to negate.)
RobC - sub post for Cayzle/Zeoll? Wednesday November 21st, 2018 7:53:34 PM In the event that Cayzle is unable to post can this please be considered a sub post?
Zeoll blinks a few times and realises that the paralysis has finally worn off. He does find himself in the uncomfortable position of being in close combat however
With his shield at hand he steps back from the foe, turns invisible and prepares to defend himself.
5ft step back Move action to use Fey Hideaway ability to turn Invis Standard action to use Total Defense. I *think* that makes him AC38 + Invis
Fang (Mitch) HP: 147/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday November 21st, 2018 11:57:01 PM
Fang spends her turn getting up and then stepping over to Tahni to receive the heal.
DM Kathy d20+13=14 ; d20+13=16 ; d20+13=31 ; d20+13=32 ; d20+13=27 ; d20+7=17 ; d20+7=26 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+7=12 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+9=18 ; d20+3=4 ; d4=2 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+6=23 ; d4=4 ; d20+10=13 ; 15d6=59 ; d20+4=11 ; d20+4=6 ; d4=1 ; d4=4 ; d20+6=19 ; d20+1=14 ; d4=4 ; d20+4=17 ; d20+22=29 ; d20+17=37 ; d20+17=37 ; d20+12=29 ; d8=5 ; d8=1 ; d8=3 ; d8=3 ; d20+22=39 ; d20+22=39 ; d20+17=25 ; d20+12=27 ; d20+22=31 ; d20+17=24 ; d20+12=20 ; 5d6+12=27 ; 4d6+6=19 ; d20+9=24 ; d20+9=26 ; d20+17=21 ; d20+19=26 ; d8=3 ; d20+18=33 ; d8=4 ; d20+18=25 ; d20+18=20 ; d8=5 ; d20+13=23 ; d20+17=24 ; Thursday November 22nd, 2018 1:30:46 AM
Almost, Tahni doesn't save against the flames, but she remembers something of Zeoll's lessons from earlier, so she dodges in the nick of time! She heals Fang and casts a Scorching Ray, but unfortunately chooses a nimble target, so her rays all miss. Meanwhile, Amith uses his breath weapon on the cultists trying to climb the wall. One of the opponents falls, and one is injured, but the others make their saves and seem to take no damage at all.
Bralin attacks the High Priest and does damage.
Aexana's Ball Lightning also attack the High Priest. Aexana herself conjures another Control Winds.
Jozhur finishes off the High Priest.
Rill casts Holy Aura, then attempts to blind the mage. He succeeds.
Zeoll readies his shield and turns invisible again.
Two opponents get blown through the Blade Barrier and shredded. One guard is blown for a ways, but manages to pick himself up and stagger out of the wind. The mage is also blown for a ways, but she stands up and blips away. Dekkar Lifebb seems completely unaffected.
One of the barbarians was not affected by the winds, and steps forward to attack Tahni. Tahni is hit three times, once critically. She takes 40 damage, but that's not the worst of it. The barbarian is wielding a Nine Lives Stealer, so Tahni must succeed at a DC 20 Fortitude save or be slain on the spot. He made his Fortitude save and is not blinded.
Two skirmishers flank Fang and attack. She is hit twice, once critically, for a total of 46 damage. One of them fails his save and is now blind.
The surviving cultists at the wall all shoot at Amith. He his hit three times for a total of 22 damage.
Aexana must succeed at a DC 25 Fortitude save or take 170 points of damage.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34/34, channel 5/5) d20+14=21 ; Thursday November 22nd, 2018 2:17:08 AM
(missed post - prayer bonus and a hero point just makes the reflex - 26 damage and no burning)
HP 181, rage round 3
Terser drops his figurine to get another Target for the enemy. Mr Stampy makes his way onto the field.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+17=30 ; Thursday November 22nd, 2018 3:57:25 AM
FORT SAVE 30 - phew Aex still stands - the rest I will post later but I just wanted to see if she lives or not and to give the others a chance to help her ;-)
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 104/144 d20+16=29 ; d4+1=5 ; d4+1=3 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=2 ; d20+19=37 ; d6+4=10 ; d20+27=39 ; d20+14=22 ; d8+4=8 ; d6=3 ; Thursday November 22nd, 2018 5:17:57 AM
Tahni takes the full brunt of the attack but fortunately (very fortunately) is able to resist against the Nine Lives Stealer.
Now that she can see Dekkar she can try and make things miserable for him. "That one. Get that one!" she points at Dekkar.
Amith is a little hurt but some of it heals back very quickly. He looks to where Tahni is pointing and with a sigh casts Dimension Door to appear behind him.
Tahni steps back and away from one of the attackers yet unfortunately stays next to the other. She softens up Dekkar before trying to blind him. Maybe he can't hit what he can't see.
-------------------------- Fort Save vs DC20: 29 = Pass Black Tentacles: CMB36 (41 to anyone already grappled). 10pts damage to anyone grappled.
Tahni -- Free: 5ft step -- Swift: Cast Magic Missile defensively. Concentration check autopass. Dekkar takes 14pts damage. -- Standard: Cast Power Word Blind defensively. Concentration check 39 = Pass. If Dekkar has less than 200HP at the moment he is instantly blinded. No Save.
Amith (92/104 - AC24/16/18) -- Standard: Cast Dim Door to appear behind Dekkar. -- AoO should Dekkar do anything to provoke: Hit AC22 for 8pts damage + 3pts fire
(MikeK)Bralin (AC38 / T20 / FF33) CMD 35 - HP 112/176) d20+22=30 ; d20+19=32 ; 3d10+17=43 ; d6=5 ; Thursday November 22nd, 2018 9:28:35 AM Making an assumption that the mushroom in a circle starting out next to Bralin is friendly. If not, the dwarf will attack him instead.
Bralin sets his sight on the wizard. Wind or no wind, that foe must be dealt with.
The dwarf crosses into the windstorm [Fort 30], closes on Dekkar Lifebb, and strikes, hard.
-- Move and attack Dekkar Lifebb Spring attack feat avoids AoO, if that comes into play. Improved Vital Strike. Power Attack.
Atk hits ac 32 for 48 hp damage (5 cold)
Conditions: -4 STR (4/6) 6 of the damage is nonlethal Holy Aura - +1 more deflection bonus to AC. SR 25. Protection from posssession and mental influence, just as protection from evil does. Melee attack- anyone striking must make a DC 26 Fort save or be blind.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 34/34, channel 5/5) d20+25=40 ; d20+20=21 ; d20+15=32 ; 3d10+28=41 ; d10+28=35 ; d20+18=19 ; d20+18=35 ; 2d6+10=17 ; Thursday November 22nd, 2018 1:10:17 PM
It didn't worry him, but that lifedrinking sword against the others could spell trouble. Terser and Stampy flank the wielder and try to take him out of the equation.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday November 22nd, 2018 2:15:18 PM
EUHM... that wind is capable of blowing for 10 minutes so basically anyone still standing in the tornado needs to make a save every turn and anyone jumping in there is at risk of the wind...
Guess Aex will better dispel the thing or some of us are also blown away
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 d20+13=33 ; d20+13=23 ; Thursday November 22nd, 2018 3:45:32 PM
Assuming Aex's post indicates she shut off the tornado, Rill will cast a heightened Harm and blip over to the likely blind Dekkar and touch him, inflicting 150 points of damage (DC 25 Will save for half. Also, his hit against touch AC was a natural 20, and may be a crit if he confirms against a touch AC of 23 for double that damage. If he's blind, he's easier to hit. Right, I think you can crit on spell damage?)
Oh, and to get the spellcasters out of harms way, he brings Tahni and Aex with him if they are willing. Then he will take a 5' step to provide a second target to that green guy and hopefully spare Tahni. In fact, he stares the green guy down and tries to goad him as he says, "Surrender fool! You leaders are dead or dying, your cause is lost. Your doom has come."
----------- Standard Action - Cast heightened Harm Move Action - Dimensional Hop with Tahni and Aex Free Action - deliver touch spell 5' move because there was no actual movement, only a move action.
Holy Aura - Everyone has SR 25, AC and Save bonuses, mental protection, anyone striking you must make a DC 26 Fort save or be blind.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+22=30 ; d6+4=6 ; 2d6=8 ; 6d6=18 ; d20+14=27 ; d6=2 ; Thursday November 22nd, 2018 4:20:27 PM
Jozhur sees Dekkar hopefully well in hand, so he seeks another target. He disappears and reappears next to a priest, as his shadow arrives to aid him.
--------------------------------- Shadow jump to priest Attack hits AC 30: 6 damage, +8 if evil, 18 sneak damage (32) +2 strength damage
Active effects: Prayer Holy Aura Shield (round 4/10) Boots of haste used: (2/10) Shadow jump used: 25/40' Current AC 35
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+19=29 ; d20+19=21 ; d20+19=27 ; d20+19=23 ; d20+19=27 ; 3d6=14 ; 3d6=5 ; 3d6=13 ; 3d6=11 ; 3d6=11 ; Thursday November 22nd, 2018 5:44:27 PM
Seeing how things unfold Aex cancels the Tornado and then... blip... she finds herself again at another side of the room... slightly dizzy of all the jumping around she takes a moment to see where she is...
"The mage is getting away!" Aex shouts.
A move action allows the 5 lightning balls to crash into more cultists... three hit the one north behind Terser. Two more at the one facing both Terser and Fang.
Ball 1 - SR29 - REF Save DC24 to negate - Damage 14 Ball 2 - SR21 - REF Save DC24 to negate - Damage 5 Ball 3 - SR27 - REF Save DC24 to negate - Damage 13 Ball 4 - SR23 - REF Save DC24 to negate - Damage 11 Ball 5 - SR27 - REF Save DC24 to negate - Damage 11
Next all she can think of is to stall the retreat of the mage but she has no useful tricks at hand for that...
Fang (Mitch) HP: 104/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+30=34 ; d20+30=46 ; d20+25=33 ; d20+20=34 ; d10+18=22 ; d10+18=23 ; d10+18=23 ; d10+18=23 ; Thursday November 22nd, 2018 8:34:12 PM
Fang, finally healed up and mobile again, tears into the non-blinded enemy, Terser's rage burning through her.
Attack 1: 34 to hit, 22 damage Haste Attack: 46 to hit, 23 damage Attack 2: 33 to hit, 23 damage Attack 3: 34 to hit, 23 damage
DM Kathy d20+13=24 ; d20+13=29 ; d20+10=20 ; d20+10=13 ; d20+10=23 ; d20+22=26 ; d20+17=25 ; d20+12=30 ; d20+12=20 ; d8=8 ; d6=4 ; d6=1 ; Friday November 23rd, 2018 2:31:35 PM
Okay, not sure what happened to my original DM post. Here are the relevant bits:
Anybody who acted against Dekkar Lifebb (that's Tahni, Bralin, and Rill) realizes that he isn't really there. You recall that he did something similar in your previous fight--created an illusion while he himself was invisible elsewhere.
Fang managed to take out two skirmishers, both of whom were wounded.
Jozhur attacked a guard, not a priest, and finished him off.
Fang got hit once for 15 damage.
The mage is blind, but put an Acid Cloud where she remembered people were. Zeoll and Fang take 5 acid damage, no save.
Tahni must succeed at a DC 25 Fortitude save or take 170 points of damage.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Friday November 23rd, 2018 5:40:22 PM
Rill casts a quickened See Invisibility and scans the room for Dekkar. Once he spots the man Rill throws Glitterdust on him.
"There you go folks, have at em!"
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+23=39 ; d6+4=5 ; 2d6=7 ; 6d6=26 ; Friday November 23rd, 2018 5:48:44 PM
Jozhur activates his boots of haste and moves to his next spellcaster looking target, drawing more blood.
----------------------- Shadow has to double move, no attack
Attack hits AC 39: 5 damage, +7 if evil, 26 sneak damage (38), also 2 strength damage.
Active effects: Prayer Holy Aura Shield (round 5/10) Boots of haste used: (3/10) Shadow jump used: 25/40' Current AC 35
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+30=32 ; d20+30=41 ; d20+25=28 ; d20+20=40 ; d20+15=28 ; d10+18=20 ; d10+18=21 ; d10+18=22 ; d10+18=23 ; d10=6 ; d10=8 ; Friday November 23rd, 2018 5:56:09 PM
Fang kills (well maybe) the idiot who attacked her after watching her drop two of his buddies in seconds
Attack one: 32 to hit, 20 damage Haste attack: 41 to hit, 21 damage Attack two: 28 to hit, 22 damage Attack Three: Crit, 33 to confirm, 23 or 37 damage.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 104/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+18=36 ; d20+19=27 ; d6+4=10 ; d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; d4+1=3 ; d4+1=5 ; d4+1=2 ; Friday November 23rd, 2018 6:53:31 PM
With her permanent See Invisibility still up, Tahni looks about for Dekkar and gives him the same tactic as before.
Amith waits to see what happens.
------------- Fort Save vs DC25: 36 = Pass Black Tentacles: CMB27 (32 to anyone already grappled). 10pts damage to anyone grappled.
Tahni -- Free: 5ft step -- Standard: Cast Power Word Blind. If Dekkar has less than 200HP at the moment he is instantly blinded. No Save.
*Note: There are die rolls there for a swift casting of Magic Missile however I've used up all my quickened rod charges so I can't actually cast it :(
RobC - Zeoll Friday November 23rd, 2018 10:54:13 PM
Zeoll takes a step back from the nearby attacker and casts a Hideous Laughter spell.
Wis Save vs DC25 or have a laughing fit.
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC32 invis; 53of77hp) Saturday November 24th, 2018 9:45:54 PM
Addendum to Rob's Sub Post: Let's make it Command (FLEE) instead of hideous laughter, because with his shield up, Zeoll has a 50% arcane fail chance on Hideous Laughter. Command has a will save DC of 24.
After casting the spell (standard action), Zeoll becomes invisible (move action).
DM Kathy d20+17=22 ; d20+15=23 ; Sunday November 25th, 2018 10:04:19 PM Rill casts See Invisibility, and quickly locates the real Dekkar. One Glitterdust later, everyone can see him.
Jozhur moves over to the mage and attacks. You actually do not need a flank for the sneak attack; the mage is blind.
Fang unloads on the barbarian next to her. It takes all four hits, but she does bring him down.
Tahni casts Power Word Blind on real Dekkar, and he is blinded.
Zeoll orders his barbarian attacker to Flee! He has a stone wall at his back, so he can't really go anywhere, but he cowers.
The guard next to the wall surrenders.
The group of cultists on the other side of the wall make their way down the side passage.
The mage surrenders.
Dekkar Lifebb casts a spell. DC 22 Spellcraft Highlight to display spoiler: {Ethereal Jaunt} He flies up through the ceiling and disappears.
The remaining cultists inside the Blade Barrier have not actually surrendered, but it probably won't be too hard to persuade them to do so. The battle in here is over; it's just a question of whether you want to chase the ones who fled.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+12=20 ; d6=2 ; Monday November 26th, 2018 12:04:38 AM
Jozhur lets out a sigh as Dekkar goes up through the ceiling. Determined to not let him get away that easily, he sends his shadow flying up through the roof after their foe.
--------------------------------------- Shadow will chase Dekkar with a fly speed of 40'. Will attack this round if able vs touch AC 20, 2 strength damage.
Active effects: Prayer Holy Aura Shield (round 5/10) Boots of haste used: (2/10) Shadow jump used: 25/40' Current AC 35
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 104/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Monday November 26th, 2018 4:12:40 AM
Tahni debates giving chase to Dekkar. She could cast an Ethereal Jaunt spell of her own, but she'd need to split away from the party and may need to go quite far.
Instead she steps so that she can see the side passage and casts a Wall of Fire as far down it as she can to try and stop the fleeing cultists.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) d6=6 ; d6=6 ; d6=6 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=6 ; d6=4 ; d6=4 ; Monday November 26th, 2018 5:39:24 PM
Since he just joined the party and it would be a shame to banish him so quickly, Terser requests that Stampy wrap up the mage in his trunk, effectively restraining him and keeping him from casting spells that require anything besides his mouth.
Lifebb's spell brought him back here, correct? Where else does he have left to flee?
Terser tries to catch as many of his allies in a healing burst as he can, exempting as many the slavers from it as he can, unless they're already restrained.
32 heals for all
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 d20+14=17 ; d20+31=49 Monday November 26th, 2018 6:42:25 PM
Rill watches as Dekkar moves up ethereally through the ceiling. Though Rill didn't quite catch what spell the man cast, being a cleric himself he can surmise what's going on. Then he watches as Jozhur's shadow follows.
"Hmm. I have Etherial Jaunt myself. I could use it to have one of you follow Dekkar, use Status to track you, and then Dimension Door in with some of us to help. But splitting the party was going rather badly a moment ago and I don't want to repeat that. Besides, leaving here would allow the mage and some others to run, and we can't have that.
"Jozhur, you may want to call your shadow back before you lose it. Dekkar may have a healing spell or two capable of killing the thing. I'll keep an eye out for Dekkar's return. Anyone able to tie up and gag that mage? I have half a mind to just hold that mage in the Blade Barrier, but she may prove to have useful information."
"Though his image poses no threat, Dekkar can drift back down as easily as he fled. Let's get that mage tied up and ready a spell or two to use against Dekkar should return."
Heeding his own advice, Rill will ready a Destruction spell to cast against the ethereal cleric should t reappear and materialize. He looks around the room with See Invisibility, and will look and listen carefully to make sure any appearance is not another ruse (Perception 49.)
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Monday November 26th, 2018 6:56:33 PM
Recognizing the battle is mostly over Fang dismisses her Haste and Rage effects. "Is there anyone that can follow him to at least figure out what he's up to? We don't want to relax only to find another pack of cultists dropping in on us."
(MikeK)Bralin (AC38 / T20 / FF33) CMD 35 - HP 125/176) 3d6=7 ; d6=3 ; d6=5 ; d6=4 ; Monday November 26th, 2018 6:56:42 PM
Bralin gets close enough to Tahni and Fang, and channels healing energy to give them, and himself, a bit of a boost.
[Heal 12]
The dwarf heads over to the mage.
"Where would he have gone?" he asks, indicating the spot where Dekkar disappeared into the ceiling.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday November 26th, 2018 7:28:19 PM "How is it this guy walks amongst us unseen and with that illusion always on?! Normally us Gnomes have a good chance to resist illusions... we need to find a way around that or the third time we face him we may not be so lukcy! Already Fang almost bought it... glad you're still with us lass... "
Aex assumes the blade barriers are gone now and Leafy and the Treant can trot into the room...
"Why you've been helpful my friends... " Aex smirks.
DM Kathy Monday November 26th, 2018 10:23:47 PM Jozhur sends his shadow after Dekkar Lifebb, but the shadow moves 40 feet and Dekkar is moving 60 feet, so the shadow can't catch him.
Tahni attempts to cast a Wall of Fire to stop the fleeing cultists, but between the stone wall, the blade barrier, and the walls of the room itself, she can't see very much of the corridor. She's not sure whether she stopped anyone.
Terser heals his allies, while Mr. Stampy wraps up the mage.
Rill looks around with See Invisibility, but sees no surprises. He readies a Destruction just in case Dekkar re-materializes.
Fang wonders aloud where Dekkar went.
Bralin, after healing some of his friends, goes over and asks the mage. "I don't know," she replies. "Maybe he went to find that stupid squid."
It takes a while for the Blade Barriers to end, but they do eventually, and then Aexana's tree friends can come in.
Aside from the mage, you capture a barbarian, a guard, a priest, and two archers.
Zeoll takes charge of the prisoners, accepting their surrenders and disarming them. He binds them if he can find some rope. He casts Detect Magic and makes sure all the loot is gathered up proper like.
He takes the barbarian aside (out of view of the other prisoners) and casts up to three DC22 charm persons and if necessary a DC26 suggestion to get the fellow to reveal what he knows. Details on the cult, where Dekkar mayt have gone, how many cultists there are, where else they might be found, and info about the larger organization. Whatever he can get out of the fellow.
Diplomacy 41
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Monday November 26th, 2018 11:08:24 PM
Tahni is not happy. Not at the battle but at herself. "You've seen him disappear before and you didn't prepare for it? Come on, Tahni, you're better than that" She kicks at the ground and then looks over the prisoners and the items the had.
The healing from Bralin and Terser cures all of her wounds. "Is anyone else still injured?" She has a number of cure spells at her disposal.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 d20+31=48 ; Tuesday November 27th, 2018 11:26:05 AM
Rill will step over to the mage. He asks her a few questions, trying to gauge if her answers are truthful or if she has some ulterior motive behind what she says. (Sense Motive 48.)
"Yeah, we're none too fond of that squid ourselves. Sorry about that whole blindness thing - perhaps we can remedy that. What happens to you from here depends partly on you.
"I am Rillett Savenport of the Black Lions. Who are you and why are you serving this lot? What is this keep, and who rules here aside from those we have vanquished? Who was in charge of your group? To whom did they report? Is there anything else you can share about this cult?"
Rill will cast Detect Magic, looking at the mage as well as the corpses and gear here. He will inform his friends what he finds. He still has Detect Invisibility going as well.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+24=29 ; Tuesday November 27th, 2018 4:47:15 PM
Jozhur's shadow continues after Dekkar as long as he is visible, trying to determine where he is going.
Feeling the others have the questioning under control and are more effective with their magic, Jozhur has a look around the area of the keep they are in for anything of value or interest.
-------------------------- Perception: 29
Active effects: Prayer Holy Aura Shield (round 6/10) Boots of haste used: (2/10) Shadow jump used: 25/40' Current AC 35
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday November 27th, 2018 5:32:04 PM "Before we go any further can we discuss how to stop this guy or how to best protect ourselves from his evil? I have a few potions that can boost your resilience against his evil spells but nothing that will help us to see him. Glitterdust anyone? Heck for all I care if he walks invisible amonst us we might as well throw flour on the ground so we see his footsteps... anyone got some?!? ... sigh... "
Aex is clueless and afraid... they might not live through this a third time...
(MikeK)Bralin (AC38 / T20 / FF33) CMD 35 - HP 125/176) Tuesday November 27th, 2018 7:12:04 PM
In answer to Tahni, Bralin answers, "Fang and I still require more healing."
The dwarf also walks to Rill and Zeoll. "We must pursue. Lifebb is using up minions, dwellings, and spells. T'would be best to catch up 'ere he recovers."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday November 27th, 2018 8:05:45 PM
Fang accepts Tahni's healing. I agree, to let him escape is to let him rebuild the pirates and the cult. Our job isn't done until all the leaders are accounted for."
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Tuesday November 27th, 2018 10:17:56 PM
Terser lets the others plan for how to address Lifebb's fleeing or return. Should he return though, Terser has a Greater Dispel ready to throw at him.
Zeoll would love to follow the fleeing villain, but how? "I'm open to ideas, frriends!" he declares.
He pauses to find and bundle up the corpse of his pooka friend. The old taur's face is grim.
DM Kathy Wednesday November 28th, 2018 12:19:54 AM Zeoll questions the barbarian while Rill questions the mage. They tell similar stories. The leader of this particular branch of the Death Dragon cult was Tyzos Nightshade, the High Priest who is lying dead on the floor. They don't have a lot of information about the power structure of the cult as a whole, but your DM would like to remind you that they're the Iron Dragons' problem. The membership of this part of the Death Dragons were pretty much all here, so apart from the handful who fled, you have killed or captured all of them. Dekkar Lifebb, they say, was the liaison between the cult and the Bloodkin, but since you have taken care of both groups, he doesn't have much of a power base anymore. It's just him and the Kraken.
Some of you are healing or being healed, and of course Zeoll is wrapping up the body of his valiant pooka friend. The rest of the group is gathering treasure. Here is what you wind up with:
+1 full plate with cold iron armor spikes (5), +1 glaive (5), composite longbow (+4 Str) (5), belt of giant strength +2 (9), cloak of resistance +2 (9), ring of protection +1 (12), +1 chain shirt (10), +1 buckler (13), +1 merciful composite longbow (+2 Str) (12), masterwork rapier (4), masterwork sap (4), belt of incredible dexterity +2 (12), cloak of elvenkind (4), blue whinnis (24 doses), purple worm poison (4 doses), +1 frost keen rapier (6), boots of striding and springing (6), cloak of resistance +1 (9), +2 full plate, +1 flaming greatsword, masterwork dagger (2), masterwork heavy crossbow, amulet of natural armor +1 (2), headband of inspired wisdom +2, iron unholy symbol, granite and diamond dust for stoneskin (worth 250 gp), belt of mighty constitution +2, hat of disguise, headband of alluring charisma +2, ring of protection +2, +1 shadow breastplate with armor spikes (3), nine lives stealer (3), masterwork composite longbow (+5 Str) (3), chime of opening, +1 full plate, +1 spiked chain, javelin of lightning, amulet of natural armor +2, belt of physical might +4 (Str, Con), headband of mental prowess +2 (Wis, Cha), phylactery of negative channeling, ring of force shield, ring of protection +4, silver unholy symbol, unholy water, materials for unhallow (worth 1,000 gp), onyx gems (worth 1,500 gp each), platinum rings for shield other (worth 100 gp), silver dust for desecrate (worth 25 gp).
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Wednesday November 28th, 2018 3:41:08 AM
Depending on how much time has passed, Tahni will answer Zeoll "I've got a Locate Creature spell. If he's within 1000ft I can find him. Then I teleport to him with a few in tow. He's blind so he should be moving a bit slower and perhaps not expecting us to follow"
She casts the spell and starts by looking upwards towards the direction Dekkar went. Healing of the others will need to wait a moment or two.
Locate Creature: Range 1000ft. No Save. No SR.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Wednesday November 28th, 2018 3:41:09 AM
Depending on how much time has passed, Tahni will answer Zeoll "I've got a Locate Creature spell. If he's within 1000ft I can find him. Then I teleport to him with a few in tow. He's blind so he should be moving a bit slower and perhaps not expecting us to follow"
She casts the spell and starts by looking upwards towards the direction Dekkar went. Healing of the others will need to wait a moment or two.
Locate Creature: Range 1000ft. No Save. No SR.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Wednesday November 28th, 2018 12:15:07 PM "Good thinking Tahni. I can then use my Status spell to find you and Dimension Door the rest of us to wherever you are if it's within range. There are 8 of us. I can handle five, though a large creature counts for two. And let's be sure we're not transporting into a wall or under water.
"But before we go anywhere, how do we secure these prisoners? Can we leave Amith and Aex's topiary friends to watch over them once they're tied up?"
(MikeK)Bralin (AC38 / T20 / FF33) CMD 35 - HP 135/176) Wednesday November 28th, 2018 5:52:29 PM
Bralin relaxes a bit when he learns Lifebb is not the leader of this branch, and that the group has fulfilled its primary mission.
He waits to see the results of Tahni's spells, while he consolidates the foe's equipment.
The sight of the belt of physical might +4 (Str, Con) gets his full attention.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Wednesday November 28th, 2018 6:31:24 PM
Jozhur is a little concerned about splitting up and going after Dekkar, away from their prisoners. "We haven't checked this whole keep yet, some of them fled and could be fetching more friends to come back for us. We should check the rest of the keep before we think about Dekkar."
He also questions whether they should even bother with Dekkar, "We were here for the branch of the cult, they've been pretty well dealt with, their leader is dead, many members are dead or captured. Much as I hate to let him go, if he dares show his face again he can join his cohorts."
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Wednesday November 28th, 2018 6:50:50 PM
In response to Jozhur and Bralin, "We have the means to divine Dekkar's location in the future and go after him should he be a threat. I agree with Jozhur that we do need to secure this keep and the prisoners first."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday November 28th, 2018 7:43:34 PM
Aex is definetely not a fan of all this jumping around... what wrong about using a normal door... But of course she'll go with the crazy jumpers...
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday November 28th, 2018 8:31:21 PM
Fang makes ready to chase after the enemy should he be found.
DM Kathy Thursday November 29th, 2018 12:17:29 AM
There is some talk of using location spells to find and go after Dekkar Lifebb, but it would be risky to leave the prisoners before they've been fully secured, and before the keep has been explored. And splitting the party is never an attractive option.
And, as Jozhur and Rill point out, you can always go after him later.
So, you secure your prisoners, gather the loot, and explore the keep. You find that much of it is in disrepair, although the cult does seem to have restored some areas, including the Great Hall where you fought, and some other areas that were clearly used as living quarters. You see no signs of the cultists who fled.
In a dungeon room below the Great Hall, you find several cells containing about a dozen prisoners.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Thursday November 29th, 2018 1:07:07 AM
As is becoming much too common, Terser goes about freeing the slaves. He channels again to give them some relief of the chafing of manacles and malnutrition.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Thursday November 29th, 2018 5:44:37 AM
With Dekkar escaping once again (curses!) Tahni instead heals Bralin and Fang
Cast Heal x 2. Bralin and Fang are now both fully healed
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday November 29th, 2018 5:48:30 PM "Why were they kept here? For slavery or for sacrifices? Who knows what these cult guys were up to? "
Aex carefully administers some first aid to those who need it and gently inquires why they were here...
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Thursday November 29th, 2018 6:29:24 PM
Bralin accepts the healing from Tahni with a nod.
He helps search the keep, and free the prisoners in the dungeon.
As the group finishes up, he offers. "Shall we finish the night here, and announce our victory to the village in the morning? Without the threat of the cultists, the townsfolk may be willing to offer more news."
The dwarf tries to recall what the Black Lions were supposed to do next..
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Thursday November 29th, 2018 6:34:57 PM
To the mage, Rill says, "You didn't tell us your name or your role in all of this. To better determine what to do with you, I need to look into your soul. This will be unsettling, but it won't cause you any pain. One I understand you better I can figure out what to do about your blindness."
Rill wlll use his Probe Psyche ability on the woman. (DC 25 Will save.)
--------------------------------------------- Probe Psyche - After one minute of observation and/or conversation, a seeker can use this ability to gain insight on the creature. The target may make a Will Save against this ability, at a DC of 25 to resist the effect. If the target passes their save then their alignment is revealed. If the target fails their save the seeker knows their alignment and personality, and gains a +2 Insight bonus to attacks, armor class, and spell DC against the creature. Creatures almost universally view the use of probe psyche as unnerving at best, rude and insulting at worst. NPCs subjected to the power shift their attitude toward the soulseeker by 1d3 steps toward hostile.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday November 29th, 2018 7:05:28 PM
Fang is less willing to automatically assume the guys in jail are slaves. We should be careful we're not letting pirates that disagreed with the alliance to the Death Cult go free to resume their evil ways."
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+23=40 ; Thursday November 29th, 2018 7:05:50 PM
Jozhur assists Terser in getting the prisoners unshackled and thoroughly tosses the living quarters before they leave. Maybe there is some information useful to the Dragon Consortium in their broader mission.
Perception: 40
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC32; 53of77hp) Thursday November 29th, 2018 7:51:47 PM
Zeoll cocks his head as he gets a telepathic message from his cohort.
He sets aside the little fey body and stands abruptly. "My frriends, I have some verry urrgent business to which I must attend. I do not know when I can rreturrn to you. Please continue on with this quest! I know you will succeed now and everr!"
His cohort teleports in.
Zeoll steps up to each of his friends.
"Captain Jozhurr, it is time forr me to rreturrn to you the hat you let me wearr. My oldest Bonetown frriend, it has been an honorr."
"Brralin, Terrserr, and Tahni, no companions I have known have been as strrong and steadfast as you. I have no fearr forr ourr grroup with you at the hearrt."
"Aexana, for sheerr joy in life, you have a special place in my hearrt, rright next to my long lost frriend Flat-top the Centaurr. Neverr change!"
"Rrill, you arre the consumate adventurrerr's adventurrerr, a herro above herroes. You set the example that will lead this grroup to become the Bone Drragons." Zeoll winks when he says that. "Orr whateverr name you all decide on!"
"Fang, I'm sorrry we did not have morre of a chance to adventurre togetherr! Stick with this grroup and you will not go wrrong!"
[OOC: Friends, with real life, especially my new job, I don't have time to do Zeoll justice. Forgive me as I bow out of the game. Tomorrow will be my last post.]
DM Kathy d20+11=19 ; Friday November 30th, 2018 12:03:57 AM
You free the prisoners from the cells. Some questioning reveals that some of them are slaves acquired from the Bloodkin. Most are actually townsfolk, brought here as hostages to ensure the cooperation of their relatives in town.
Rill uses his Probe Psyche ability on the mage, who introduces herself as Avra. You learn that she is Lawful Evil in alignment, that she is surprisingly insecure about herself and her abilities, and that she had attached herself to the cult seeking structure and purpose. She's done some pretty terrible things, but she may be reachable.
Bralin tries to remember what you were supposed to do next. You don't recall anything specific. The Iron Dragons asked this of you; hopefully they (or other Dragon Consortium representatives) will be in touch before too much longer.
Jozhur searches, but doesn't find anything useful.
Zeoll receives an urgent telepathic message from his cohort. He has always had a divided heart, torn between adventuring and helping his people. It looks as though his priorities have undergone a sudden shift.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Friday November 30th, 2018 1:16:34 PM
Rill shares what he learns about Avra. Then he addresses the woman.
"Avra, I can see that you have done some very bad things in your life. However, in the cold light of death, all stand equally before Gargul to be judged. Unlike many of your comrades, you were spared that fate today. And so you stand before us instead. I judge that while you deserve death for what you have done, you have the capacity to alter your eventual fate before you face the God of Life and Death. That is a gift many do not receive.
"If my comrades here agree, you will be taken to a former island of slaves and slavers that has now become a haven for some and a rehabilitation opportunity for others. There you will live humbly as an equal among others. You will also be provided a structure and purpose. You will serve there with your skills and abilities.
"I and perhaps others will visit from time to time, and when we have judged you to have redeemed yourself, we will reevaluate your situation. Do you accept this sentence? Will you willingly turn from your evil ways and enter into a life of service to others?"
If she answers yes, and seems sincere, Rill will dismiss her blindness. If she answers no, Rill recommends summary execution.
---------------------
As Rill finishes his monologue on judgement and redemption, he hears Zeoll's announcement of his departure. It's like a knife through his heart.
"Well Zeoll, I guess I knew Maab was going to call you away from us at some point. I've tried to get you to follow a more stable God, but, well, here we are.
"I grew up in Bonetown and when the time came for me to leave that place, Gargul directed my path to the storied crew of the Lionfish. You were there to greet me that day, along with Jozhur, Aex and Terser. Friends have come and gone since then. I miss Magana and Captain Coerator. Remember Hashamon, Reggie and Clyde?
"Since that time, we have worked together to defeat a godling, rescued a sentient stone, put down slavers. We've survived the frozen waste, lived trough a hurricane, and helped with the return of the Sargrass to the Wold. Through all of that, a wise and aged Liontaur kept us entertained with his stories and always pointed us in the right direction. You have been a guiding star for our group, and I will miss you my old friend..."
Rill pauses for a moment as he starts to choke up and struggles to regain his composure.
"While I hope your departure is only temporary, I kind of sense otherwise. Know that you will always have a place at our table, a berth on our ship, and a warm place to sleep before our fire. Please don't forget us in your travels. Farewell where ever you fare my friend."
Then Rill hugs the furry old beast and wipes his eyes as he steps back.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Friday November 30th, 2018 5:17:49 PM I learned many things from you. Honoring where I came from is one of them. So I don't suppose I can fault you for leaving to take care of your own. Doesn't mean I have to like it, but I'll support you whatever you need to do. And we'll make sure none of these nasty slavers can come to threaten your home, or anyone else's for that matter.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Friday November 30th, 2018 5:26:11 PM
Bralin reaches into his sack, and retrieves a figurine of a lion he has carved in oynx.
The dwarf solemnly hands it to Zeoll. "A remembrance," he tells the taur. "Fare well, friend Zeoll."
Zeoll (Cayzle) (AC32; 53of77hp) Friday November 30th, 2018 6:40:07 PM
Zeoll embraces his friends but does not trust himself to speak. They can see in his eyes (and in the droop of his tail) that this is a sorrowful moment for him too. He tucks away the lion carving carefully.
He takes the hand of his follower, Fraweol, and bows. Then the two teleport on to other places.
[OOC: Thank you all! I've had a great time.]
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Friday November 30th, 2018 7:21:59 PM
Jozhur lays a hand on Zeoll's shoulder and nods, "Farewell, old friend. Rill just reminded me what a trip it has been." He cuts himself off and gives the old Taur a big hug as a tear rolls down his cheek. "Best of luck pal, sounds like many more adventures await you."
Jozhur's mind wanders to Reggie for a moment, wondering how the ol' gal was doing.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Friday November 30th, 2018 7:27:09 PM
Fang, having known Zeoll for only a few days, is far less emotional about the departure. "May the gods bless whatever task you are leaving for." she says politely.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Friday November 30th, 2018 7:55:42 PM
Tahni stays silent. The Captain took her in as one of his own when she had noone else. "I'l rrrreally miss you" she says with a coy smile.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Sunday December 2nd, 2018 6:42:54 PM
With watery eyes Aex gave Zeoll a hug just before he left. He and Magana were the first Taurs Aex ever laid eyes on. What a fun team they were... But she's convinced they haven't seen the last of that grey Taur!
Sadened she wonders how to proceed next.
DM Kathy Sunday December 2nd, 2018 10:09:17 PM Rill offers Avra the chance to be taken to Comeri to work. She hesitates, but ultimately agrees. Her assent isn't exactly wholehearted, but she isn't trying to deceive, either.
Then it is time to say goodbye to Zeoll. You make your farewells to the old liontaur. Some of you have known him for a very long time; others are new acquaintances. You wish him well, and then he and his follower are gone.
You still have a pile of loot, some captive cultists, and some newly-freed prisoners. And it's still raining. What would you like to do next?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Monday December 3rd, 2018 6:36:03 AM
Tahni tries to break the tension by returning to the matter at hand. "There are still some of them lurking down the corridors. This place isn't entirely safe just yet. Should we give pursuit and try to catch them? Set up camp here to rest and cover the entrance in case they return? Head back to the 'Fish?"
She turns to face Jozhur for the answer.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Monday December 3rd, 2018 12:18:22 PM "We've searched the keep and found nothing else - other than the fact that this place is falling apart. Before we leave with this lot, we would do well to make sure we know what we're dealing with. This will take a few minutes."
Rill will cast Detect Evil on the prisoners and the slaves. Then he will then use his Probe Psyche ability on any evil slaves and on all the prisoners. (DC 25 Will save.)
--------------------------------------------- Probe Psyche - After one minute of observation and/or conversation, a seeker can use this ability to gain insight on the creature. The target may make a Will Save against this ability, at a DC of 25 to resist the effect. If the target passes their save then their alignment is revealed. If the target fails their save the seeker knows their alignment and personality, and gains a +2 Insight bonus to attacks, armor class, and spell DC against the creature. Creatures almost universally view the use of probe psyche as unnerving at best, rude and insulting at worst. NPCs subjected to the power shift their attitude toward the soulseeker by 1d3 steps toward hostile.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Monday December 3rd, 2018 3:59:48 PM Once we clear the place out, it may not be the worst idea to use that Earthquake of yours and flatten it, so long as adequate protections are in place to prevent landslides into the town. It's falling apart anyway, and that would mess up Lifebb trying to come back here and set up business again.
Terser would like to stick around until morning though, so he can pick up those stonecarving tools from the blacksmith. He knows what it's like to lose some expected business, and would prefer not to leave the man hanging.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday December 3rd, 2018 6:18:07 PM "I guess it would be too much to find some secret passage that leads to more devious rooms? No... that probably sounds too much like a game we used to play...
But in any case I'm not in favor of spending the night here! Waiting till morning might be wise though... "
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Monday December 3rd, 2018 6:46:10 PM
"We will need to meet with the townsfolk, and ensure they are not of the foe," Bralin points out. "We must needs do that in the morning, when they are awake and about."
The dwarf gives a half smile. "I do like the earthquake idea."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Monday December 3rd, 2018 10:16:38 PM
Fang helps do one last run through the keep to find anything they missed.
DM Kathy d20=16 ; d20=15 ; d20=15 ; d20=2 ; d20=11 ; Monday December 3rd, 2018 10:30:43 PM
Turning your attention to the problem at hand, Tahni wonders whether the cultists who fled might still be in the keep. Rill assures her, however, that they have fled the building altogether.
Rill casts Detect Evil on the cultists and freed prisoners. The cultists detect as evil; the freed prisoners do not. You use your Probe Psyche ability on the cultists. One is a priest of the Death Dragon, who has done some pretty terrible things. The others are pretty low-level recruits, almost certainly redeemable.
Terser suggests flattening the keep with an Earthquake once everyone is out safely; Bralin seconds the idea.
The rest of you ponder logistics. It is full night by now, and still raining. You got to the village a little before suppertime (and, incidentally, only some of you had time to eat). It's only been a couple of hours since then. People are likely still awake in the village, though they will be retiring soon. You might be able to find accommodation there. Indeed, some of the freed prisoners are townsfolk, held as hostages by the cult to ensure the cooperation of their relatives. They are anxious to return to their families, and many of them offer you a place to sleep, "though it won't be too fancy." You could also retire to the Lionfish. Or you could stay here.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Monday December 3rd, 2018 10:37:05 PM Earthquake it in the morning. We don't want to wake up the whole town. Fang points out.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Tuesday December 4th, 2018 5:21:06 AM
Tahni has never intentionally collapsed a building. Still, it seemed a rational thing for the party to do.
She nods in agreement to saving it til morning.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Tuesday December 4th, 2018 6:04:32 PM
Bralin nods his acceptance at one of the offers of rest.
"I slept in a cave for ten years," he reassures the man. "And have little use for 'fancy'"
To Rill he notes "We can accompany the freed to their homes, escape this place, and build goodwill."
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Tuesday December 4th, 2018 7:11:54 PM
Terser is fine with anything. No matter how simple the accommodation, he's slept in worse.
DM Kathy Tuesday December 4th, 2018 10:26:14 PM
The townsfolk really are anxious to return to their families, and honestly you're not sure how you'd stop them. So you do the next best thing and go along with them, planning to come back and level the place in the morning.
None of the families in town have enough space to accommodate all of you, so you end up divided among several houses. There's a pallet on the floor in front of a fire; a couple of cots in a musty-smelling attic; a child's trundle-bed (the child is nowhere to be seen and you kind of hesitate to ask about it); a soft pile of bedding in a warm kitchen corner; and similarly humble arrangements. You are also offered food and drink, should you want it.
The night is uneventful. In the morning, your hosts offer breakfast, after which you can return and bring down the keep as planned.
The Lionfish is still at the dock, as is the Black Falcon which presumably belonged to the cult. You did see that there were sailors aboard when you came in, but there's no telling whether they'll put up a fight or how skilled they are. You still have ex-cultist prisoners and a few freed slaves to deal with. What would you like to do next?
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Tuesday December 4th, 2018 10:27:36 PM
Jozhur balks at collapsing the (somewhat) perfectly good keep. "How about we ask the townsfolk in the morning, perhaps they can use the place. I don't think Dekkar will show his face here again."
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Tuesday December 4th, 2018 10:33:18 PM
Rill magically returns his white robes to their pressed and clean condition.
"Bralin, I remember when we brought you back from the Ice Vein. I really glad we did. Cuz we got dwarves! Thank you for the reminder of our responsibility to care for those in our charge."
Rill will accompany the others, including out prisoners and the former slaves back to the town. As we go, we use Continiual Flame items to light out way. We will see to the reuniting of some to their families, and will spread enough funds around for a real celebration.
Rill asks any town leaders what should be done with the keep we left, and mention that we had planned to shake the area down to rubble.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Wednesday December 5th, 2018 4:01:15 AM
Tahni is happy for a good night's rest and is happy to take the trundle bed.
She is in absolute agreement about caring for the people of the town and trying to leave them in a better position. She does go to the bar to talk to some of the wait staff - rather than the manager - and sets to asking them if there are any other "baddies" hiding about town. Who know's, maybe that blacksmith has something to hide? She's happy to throw a little gold their way if it will help their tongues.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 d100=51 Wednesday December 5th, 2018 11:06:25 AM
Rill will gladly take whatever accommodations are offered.
In the morning, he will return to the cobbler Avit. "Good morning, good sir. Last night we cleared out that den of thieves and miscreants at the keep on the hill. You said said there was a council that ruled here. Were there any members of this council that are not usually at that keep? If I can get a list, perhaps we can make contact with each and make sure things are set aright here before we leave."
Rill will also check with the townsfolk before he or Tahni destroys the keep. As Jozhur suggests, it may be a place they want to use. While he's at it, he will also cast Augury, asking "Will it bring weal or woe to the town to cast Earthquake on the keep on the hill." (85% chance of success, rolled 51 - success!)
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) d20+9=17 ; Wednesday December 5th, 2018 5:33:14 PM
After a night sleeping by the fire, Bralin breaks his fast, and tries to get a sense of what his hosts feel about no longer having the cult branch looming above them. Adhering to Jozhur's suggestion, he also mentions the group's plans to bring down the keep, and asks for their thoughts. [Diplomacy 17]
Finally, the dwarf helps with whatever morning chores need doing, and then takes his leave, and returns to the Lionfish while giving any other vessels docked here a once over.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday December 5th, 2018 6:37:02 PM
Aex too is actually feeling quite good now that they all enjoyed a good night sleep and excellent breakfast. She agrees with Jozhur that it might be prudent asking the townsfolk what this keep used to be before that evil cult took residence in it. Obviously by the state the keep was in, it's doubtful the cult had any ties to the building... but perhaps the townsfolk have?
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Wednesday December 5th, 2018 7:23:53 PM
Also, Rill will freely offer healing to any that need it and will repay his lodging with Continual Flame cast where asked.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday December 5th, 2018 7:57:22 PM
Fang spends the next morning doing priestly things. Healing the sick or injured, giving words of encouragement, perhaps even giving a sermon if there are enough faithful in town who are interested in one. She makes sure to ask around for the local priest, if any, and check in with him for advice as to what's most needed and permission before giving any kind of sermon. She doesn't want to step on anyone's toes here.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+23=34 ; Wednesday December 5th, 2018 10:27:14 PM
In the early morning hours, Jozhur heads off to scout the Black Falcon. He does his best to determine what sort of threat the crew may be and reports to the others before taking further action.
Perception 34
DM Kathy Wednesday December 5th, 2018 10:28:02 PM Rill talks to the town council, and finds them to be very uneasy and evasive. They are emphatic that they never liked those cultists, no siree, never had nothing to do with any of them!
The cobbler Avit tells a different tale; the powerful and influential people in town had all converted to the cult. The cult made an example of those who refused, and the rest fell into line. It's possible--even likely--that the surviving town leaders are truly repentant and glad to put the cult behind them, but it may bear further investigation.
The answer to Rill's Augury is weal.
Tahni talks to the townsfolk, and finds much the same thing Rill found. The cultists pressured the town leaders and influencers to convert to the cult, and executed those who did not fall into line. Most townsfolk tell you they believe the leaders just went along out of fear, and were never really committed to the cult, but they seem uneasy.
Bralin finds that the townsfolk have mixed feelings about the keep. It's an eyesore, true, but it could be fixed up. They've been meaning to do that. You know, for at least the past 20 years. A few worry that knocking it down will create more problems than it solves, but others seem like they would be glad to see it gone.
Aexana learns that the keep was once home to a knight, rumored to be a retired adventurer. He had no children, and when he died, nobody claimed the place, so it fell into disrepair.
Fang is able to tend to a few hurts and illnesses. She learns that the village priest was one of the first ones executed by the cult, so at present the townsfolk have no spiritual leader. They welcome the idea of a short prayer service.
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Thursday December 6th, 2018 12:13:14 PM
An emaciated man removes himself from the shadows of a nearby building and ambles up to Tahni, Brain, and any other heroes speaking with the villagers. Pale of skin and rapidly graying thin hair, he looks like a mummified but amiable thin man in his late 20s. Standing 5 foot 9 inches tall, his common traveler’s clothes and cloak is easily overlooked by the smile that plays around the easy-going mouth.
“Hey, what’s the word?” he calls out with a friendly grin.
...... Dragon Benefits: 1. Fame and Respect. The group and each hero in the group are famous throughout the Wold both in their time and for all time. Every politician, be it a mayor, a high priest, or to a queen, will recognize the heroes on sight and know their reputation
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Thursday December 6th, 2018 1:56:22 PM
Terser tries to get an idea from the city leaders if Lifebb tends to appear by magic right in the keep, or if he appeared somewhere else and traveled in. His main concern is to prevent him from using his magic to pop right in any time he pleases anymore. Or to at least inconvenience him.
Dahlia Light Fingers, Gold & Platinum Dragons, Dragon Consortium Thursday December 6th, 2018 6:49:30 PM
A purple eyed, black haired halfling enters town wearing 2 shortswords, and a large number of daggers. Upon seeing a fellow member of the Dragon Consortium, she walks over to Jass and says to all present, “So where’s everyone else?”
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Thursday December 6th, 2018 7:14:31 PM
Bralin Stoneminder is a sturdy looking dwarf armored in mithril full plate and shield, and with a waraxe at his side.
He eyes the approaching strangers warily, but then recognizes them for who they are.
To the halfling's query, he replies, "Given your recent arrival, I suspect they will be here soon." He extends a hand. "I am Bralin Stoneminder."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday December 6th, 2018 7:59:23 PM
Fang is busily preparing for the upcoming prayer service and looking for the other cleric's in the party to see if they want to participate when she notices the strangers. Given her long interest in joining the Dragons she recognizes them. She bows respectfully to them. "We are honored by your presence Dragons."
Fang is a heavily scarred Ratfolk with white fur and red eyes. She carries herself as one who has fought many battles and wears the hide armor of a barbarian, yet a symbol of Alemi, God of Healing, hangs from her neck. If any of the visitors are well connected in the church of Alemi they may have heard of her, not because she's important but because her radical ideas of using violence to cure the ills of society, like slavers, have ruffled a lot of feathers in the usually pacifist church.
Valdor [Gold and Platinum Dragon, Dragonstone] (Jerry--playing him as an NPC) Thursday December 6th, 2018 8:19:02 PM
A soft crunching occurs in the distance and two giant footprints dent the road. A figure appears sitting on something in the air that remains invisible. Silver haired, majestic and lean of muscle he sits with a wry grin on his face as he hops off of something.
"Thanks for the lift my good sir. Always better than teleporting." He waves as the unseen creature departs.
Putting on his diplomatic face he approaches the others and bows to Dahlia. He takes a moment to recognize all the faces and steps forward smiling as he heads towards Fang.
He bows low and smiles. "Greetings to you Fang. I am Valdor Dragonstone. I'm not a priest, but I am at your service. Is there anything a lay person can do to help you prepare? I do know a few prayers and I serve both Domi and Alemi. I apologize if our arrivals are disturbing you."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday December 6th, 2018 9:00:44 PM
Fang returns Valdor's bow. "I am honored by your offer. These people have long lived in fear and oppression. My hope is to show them that they are not forgotten and that there is hope to rebuild their lives. The presence of dragons actively helping would help greatly in reaching them."
Fang promptly sets Valdor helping put back together the decrepit chapel unused since the execution of the previous priest. Where others might hesitate to set such a prestigious figure to work she assigns him the dirtiest, toughest, most tiring jobs. That is, the ones she isn't herself undertaking. He's a dragon, he can handle some manual labor!
She also recruits any other Dragons, party members, or villagers willing to help. The place needs to be cleaned top to bottom, new seating found, conjured, or fixed, and redecorated with candles, flowers, and carpets.
By the time she's done she wants the place looking bright a new, representing the renewal and healing she hopes the village can achieve now that the cultists are gone.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday December 6th, 2018 9:06:00 PM
Upon seeing the Valdor, Dahlia and Jass, Aex makes a light bow - she's never been good with words especially not when such heroes of the Wold arrive.
With a stammer she manages to speak her name... : "[/b] Aexana Sir... well euhm... me that is... you know... "[/b]
Bosk (James D) Iron Dragon of Hook City Thursday December 6th, 2018 9:48:07 PM
In the distance a dark mist coalesces into into an ethereal shadow that sweep across the land, slowly condensing into the solid form of a large minotaur...or at least you think it is minotaur. Tall even by taur standards, the 9 1/2 ft tall figure is a commanding presence. Perhaps it is the 10ft bastard sword slung across his back, a third eye in the center of his forehead, or the fact that he casts no shadow in the Wold.
Casually he picks a couple strands of the remaining shadow off his steelgrass armor and flick them into the wind where the instantly dissolve. Looking closer you notice his armor covered by a black pea-coat sewn of chimera skin. The material is strangely soft and warm, thick enough that it conceals any weapons or armor underneath yet light enough to be cool to wear in the sun, and the way the end sweeps just above the floor as he walks sends a chill down your spine...or perhaps it is that is is actually radiating cold as wisps of dark fog seep from underneath his cloak.
Where the armor doesn't cover you can see the scorpions moving through his fur. Not crawling on top of it or under it, within in it as a ghost passes through a wall or a tattoo through the skin. If that were not strange enough, a silver Holy Symbol like you have never seen before is emblazoned on his forehead and in the center of it is living third eye darting left and right.
On his breast is the adamantium emblem with the IA Shield worn by the Iron Adventurer's before they became known as the Iron Dragons, and the Dragon's symbol lays just above it.
Sword still slung, he walks with a swing and lets his arms and shoulders go free, and laughs as he calls out. You could see that he is ready to be friends with anyone who was friendly, and doesn’t give a fig for anyone who isn’t. Sorry for the delay. We had to take care of that thing at the place. I am a priest of Gargul, one of his devoted Eyes. Let me know if I might be of any help.
Knowledge religion 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {The symbols on his forehead are the combined symbols of Gargul and Jancassis} Knowledge religion 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Eyes (clerics) of Gargul who become Grims no longer cast a shadow in the Wold}
Knowledge religion 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The priests of Gargul often seem cold to the touch. When on missions of importance, a wispy fog may seem to creep from under their cloaks. } Knowledge religion 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Jancassis' Avengers can have sacred living tattoos that that acts as familiars and/or swarms }
Knowledge local 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {The creature before you is not strictly speaking humanoid} Knowledge Planes 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The creature before you is an outsider, at least partially composed of the essence of another plane} If previous check passed, knowledge religion 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Jancassis' Avengers who have reached the level of Agent of Vengeance become outsiders and may be sent on Missions by Jancassis herself}
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Fame and Respect. The group and each hero in the group are famous throughout the Wold both in their time and for all time. Every politician, be it a mayor, a high priest, or to a queen, will recognize the heroes on sight and know their reputation.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Thursday December 6th, 2018 10:16:28 PM
Rill is a bit taken aback at this sudden appearance of these legends. He nervously smooths his white robes, magically returning them to their clean and pressed condition, and adjusts the circlet that bears the symbol of his God. Garguls symbol likewise hangs on this chest, made of some strange metal.
He nods his head as he addressed these new arrivals. "Greetings and welcome. We are honored by your presence." Rill waits for them to clarify what's next.
DM Kathy Thursday December 6th, 2018 11:01:19 PM
One minute, you are going about the mundane tasks of helping the townsfolk rebuild their lives, and the next moment, you are among legends.
You have varying reactions. Bralin is matter-of-fact, Aexana is tongue-tied, Rill is somewhat in awe. Fang is respectful enough, but soon puts these living legends to work fixing up the town's temple. There is only room for so many helpers before they start getting in one another's way, and it doesn't take too long to set the little temple to rights.
The townsfolk, too, recognize the living legends in their midst, judging from the murmurs you overhear. "Valdor Dragonstone himself!" "Dahlia Light Fingers!" "Bosk DeOx!" "and that's Jass of Downs!"
They watch and wonder, because surely these mighty folk didn't come all this way just to fix up their temple.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Friday December 7th, 2018 4:38:45 AM "Uh-oh. What have we done now?" Unfortunately that is Tahni's first thought on seeing not 1, but 4 members of the Dragon Consortium. She recognizes Bosk both from the battle prior to the hurricane but also from the battle with the Sarr. He's pretty big and important in the Wold so it's no doubt he's forgotten her. Tahni takes no offence whatsoever and is grateful to be in his presence again.
It's funny. These legends of the Wold all seem so... normal. There's no overwhelming aura, no sermons, no bellowing voices or expecting a little hero-worship. They're just like every one else. ".. except they have saved the Wold in ways we could never imagine" she reminds herself.
Feeling a little more confident she presents herself: "Tahni. I'm Tahni!" The Wyrmrider legacy of awkward introductions continues
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Friday December 7th, 2018 6:40:54 AM
Jass takes Bralin’s hand warmly. “Good to put a face behind the great deeds I’ve been hearing!”
“Of course you are!”, Jass says with an infectious grin that weirdly doesn’t seem out-of-place on his Lich-like face. “Looks like you have done another terrific job, eh? Protect what needs protecting, and as tired as you are, what’s the first thing you are doing?” The undead blooded Sorcerer doesn’t hesitate. “You start rebuilding and helping the good people of the town.” He nods and casts a small prestidigitation, “well, color me purple!” And he does, making his skin a nice light lavender!
He makes his way about the town, making sure to greet each of the heroes of the seas: Rill, Arcana, Fang, and Terser. “Where is Zeoll? Ah that’s right, called to attend to that thing.”
Jass helps with cleaning by casting an Unseen Servant and using Prestidigitation to clean: Valdor and Bosk have enough muscles for the manual work! He does take care of the inevitable pile of refuse that just can’t be used again by a few Disintergrate spells. “Place looks positively refreshed, eh? ‘Course, that’s the easy part, the heart of any town are the people,” his mummified face smiles as he bows to Fang, “and I believe I’ll leave that in your capable hands.”
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Friday December 7th, 2018 6:47:01 AM
“Of course you are!”, Jass says to Tahni
And he also shakes the hand of Jozhur, too.
Ingrge Nightseer; Emerald Dragons - Dragon Consortium Friday December 7th, 2018 1:53:32 PM
Just about the time the temple is set to rights, There is s light shift in the winds and then there is an old long grey haired scar faced elf standing in front of the temple doors. In his right hand is a very well documented and renowned staff.
The elf looks at the staff for a moment as if listening to it and then seems to be talking to it.
"Yes, I do believe this is the place. Though it seems we may have missed out on some of the activity"
"Yes, See there is Valdor and Dahlia and Jass and the young Bosk."
No longer addressing the staff Ingrge looks around and then more loudly asks. "So, Who is in charge here!"
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Friday December 7th, 2018 5:31:45 PM
Jozhur returns from the docks to find some strangers have arrived. Jozhur is a fairly average sized human with a shaggy mop of jet black hair. He is dressed in loose fitting clothing with a hooded cloak, a bit of shiny chain armor peaks out around his collar.
Jozhur has briefly met Bosk before and greets him with a nod as he briefly introduces himself to the others who show up, guessing they aren't here to socialize.
He shakes Ingre's hand and replies, "I suppose Zeoll left me in charge again, though I think Rill's talents fit the role better. I nominate him for the title of Captain, should he accept and no one object."
Valdor [Gold and Platinum Dragon, Dragonstone] (Jerry--playing him as an NPC) Friday December 7th, 2018 6:41:01 PM
"No one is in charge as usual, Ingrge." Valdor gives the old hero a big hug. "Just trying to help."
Valdor leads Ingrge over to Aexana. He bows low and says, "It is very pleasant to meet you maam. Your potions are legendary in Plateau City. Ingrge, this hero's daughter owns the best potion shop in Plateau City. Her daughter's salve has been keeping my back limber after workouts for some time now. I'm not as young as I used to be. You should try it!"
Ingrge Nightseer; Emerald Dragons - Dragon Consortium Friday December 7th, 2018 7:55:06 PM
"Nice to meet you Jozhur . Ah Valdor it is good to see you again." Are we finely close to bringing in some younger blood?"
As he is introduced to Aexana he takes her hand and kisses it lightly on the knuckles." It is a pleasure to meet you my dear." Plateau City? I am afraid I haven't been in a while. Karri, in the the Emerald Kingdom is about as far as I get these days on a regular basis . I am happy in the Tower in my lab...."
Dahlia Light Fingers, Gold & Platinum Dragons, Dragon Consortium Saturday December 8th, 2018 7:00:53 AM
Dahlia is all smiles, as she is helping clean up the temple, she finds it particularly funny when Valdor is put to work. After the clean up is done, and everyone is together, she takes the time to shake the hands of everyone. She says to them, “I’ve been hearing some pretty amazing things concerning you guys, great job dealing with those dragon cultist, they are a nasty bunch”. “I’ve heared others are dealing with the same scum around the Wold, maybe we should send you guys to help out”, she teases.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Saturday December 8th, 2018 11:04:33 AM
Two Dragons appearing out of nowhere was a moment of import. Now there are five, most legends among legends, and it appears more are coming.
Bralin moves to close in with the rest of the Black Lions.
The dwarf nods politely in acceptance of the accolades offered, and waits for the reason of this extraordinary assembly to be revealed.
Bosk (James D) Iron Dragon of Hook City d20=15 ; Saturday December 8th, 2018 12:48:09 PM
Bosk greets everyone, especially those who acknowledge him, as he and Valdor join in the manual work.
Tahni, it is good to see you again. I feel like we are old friends after everything Boomy has told me about you. I believe he used to travel with you in the Scab. I hope things have been more peaceful for you. Two of our last three meetings were in battle....Have you had any luck in locating Braugh?
Jozhur, I hope adventure continues to find you. You have come a long way since that shipwreck washed you up Bonetown.
Rill, how is the life of the Golembane. I know Gargul sees great potential in you, should you choose to live up to it.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Saturday December 8th, 2018 6:14:18 PM "You knew Boomy?" Tahni beams to Bosk. Not only do they have someone in common but he knows her well enough to know so.
At the mention of Bruagh, Tahni puts on a brave smile. Sense Motive Highlight to display spoiler: { Tahni still hasn't found her soul mate though continues to keep searching. It's a very sore point}
"Perhaps you'd all like to join us for some food and drink at the tavern? If you'd a little privacy however we could do so on the Lionfish?"
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Sunday December 9th, 2018 5:30:04 PM
Aexana's jaw drops as she seems to be known by Valdor and Ingrge... her cheeks flush...
"It's but simple herbs Sires... but it is true that my daughter has mastered the delicate art of Herbalism. Of makes me proud to know her skills are noticed.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Sunday December 9th, 2018 7:26:10 PM
Rill regains his composure. "Who's in charge? Well, we're more an autonomous collective. But I have a tendancy to speak for the group - perhaps more than I should at times.
"What's that Jozhur? Well, I can serve as captain if we need one."
He looks up at Bosk, "That our Lord should see potential in me is news indeed but I, and I think the rest of us here, live to serve with what we have been given. We do not seek glory or honor except that which gives us the position and authority to do what must be done in the Wold."
He will warmly greet each of these heroes by name, shaking their hands as he goes. "We are honored to meet so great an an assemblage. Some of you we met before at the Sargrass and elsewhere. We were set to a task, and we have completed that as best we could, though one enemy did escape - a Dekkar Lifebb. We can chance him down if need be."
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Sunday December 9th, 2018 7:50:34 PM
“And you did great on that task”, replies Jass with an encouraging smile on his otherwise rictus face. “So maybe a thanksgiving in this newly reconsecrated shrine, and then a more private meal to hear the particulars...”. The Sorcerer trails off meaningfully, and then puts up his hood to not scare the townsfolk during the ceremony.
DM Kathy Sunday December 9th, 2018 9:02:55 PM
Yet another Dragon shows up--the famed Ingrge Nightseer. That would seem to be all--at least for now.
There are introductions and explanations. There will be a need, soon, to speak privately.
But for now, the townsfolk are gathered, the temple is ready, so it seems to be time for that prayer service Fang promised earlier. Everyone crowds into the modest temple, the townsfolk still buzzing about the mighty heroes in their midst.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+4=21 ; Monday December 10th, 2018 7:20:41 AM
Fang is a little nervous about speaking in front of her new companions and the dragons but she quashes it with fiery determination. She resists the urge to talk about how destroying evil can help heal the wounds of society; while that is her favorite preaching topic it's not what's needed now. Instead she focuses on communal healing after a disaster, about how with love and support people can recover from anything. She tries to comfort the villagers over their long hardship and bring hope that everything can be made better if they only believe and work for it. (Dip 21)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Monday December 10th, 2018 12:43:19 PM
Terser sits towards the back of the assemblage, knowing that others have suffered hardships as well. But Fang's words resonate, and for a moment he misses the first family that he took for granted, and the second family that dispersed for reasons beyond his control.
He doesn't mope too long though, because even though his current family has gone through a lot of changes, it's the one that he's chosen, and even those that have retired to chase other goals are still a part of it.
Come to think of it, he should have given Zeoll a gift before he left. It was too sudden by far. Should he have the chance, he'll prepare a totem of refuge to give him, so that he can find the Lionfish at any time, should he need to.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday December 10th, 2018 4:25:08 PM
Not being very religious Aexana hides at the back of the temple. Fang speaches well... as his words are not all about the devine it's not even that bad. Love and support! Aye!
Fang's words resonate in the modest temple... Aex can't help but slumber into a day dream... Valdor's words brought back the loving memories of her home... her daughter... their little shop... and look where she ended up now... too often has she and her friends came to the brink of death... in fact... she was dead! Flying up in the air, stunned high up and plummeting to the Wold's rock hard surface... she was granted a return but what good did she do since then? True she bought herself a Feather Falling ring like Lord Gargul adviced... but what else?!?
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Monday December 10th, 2018 4:36:43 PM
Bralin nods at the end of Fang's dedication.
"Well done," he tells her afterward.
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Monday December 10th, 2018 6:55:32 PM
Jass keeps quiet and in the background as much as possible. This is the Black Lions spotlight , and the normally charismatic Sorcerer is content to listen and nod along with Fang’s words. Yes...
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Monday December 10th, 2018 9:21:39 PM
"Yes Rill, someone should wear the hat, or carry the flag, I suppose. It's always been more of a figurehead title, but there is something that goes with it." He hands Rill a strip of the flag flying over the 'Fish, "You may find this helpful in, umm, negotiations."
Jozhur listens intently to Fang and smiles. He says just what these people need to lift their spirits.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Flag of the Captain (Party Item): If a captain of a ship tears a strip off the edge of the flag and carries it on his or her person, AND flies the flag above all others, he or she gains a +3 competence bonus to Diplomacy and Intimidate checks he makes while on board the ship. The captain can mentally change the emblem on the flag once per day. OOC: This is not stock magic item, and may not be bought or sold in the Catacombs. It takes up no slot. Its value is about 4,000 gp.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Monday December 10th, 2018 10:06:19 PM "Hey! Thanks Jozher, that's a nice gift. I'll resist the urge to fly Gargul's symbol."
"Nice sermon Fang."
DM Kathy Monday December 10th, 2018 11:18:50 PM Fang's service seems to be exactly what the townsfolk were looking for. They express sincere thanks as they depart.
Which brings you to the reason the Dragons came to see you--they want to talk to you. The pub has been suggested as a place to meet, and it will do nicely--although a lot of townsfolk seem to be making their way in that direction as well. The Black Lion has also been suggested as a meeting place. The food and drink aren't likely to be as nice, but you will be able to have a private conversation.
Or perhaps the Dragons have another suggestion.
Bosk (James D) Iron Dragon of Hook City Tuesday December 11th, 2018 12:49:26 AM
Bosk works at the reconstruction until Tahni and the others start to call it a day and talk about heading to the pub. That would be nice. I have made it one of my goals in life to try the local foods and spirits of every region of the Wold. What would you suggest?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Tuesday December 11th, 2018 3:58:04 AM "They do quite large servings of calamari around here if you like that sort of thing" Tahni offers
Dahlia Light Fingers, Gold & Platinum Dragons, Dragon Consortium Tuesday December 11th, 2018 5:53:02 AM
Dahlia's ears perk up at the sound of calamari, but then she thinks about it and says, "Maybe some place more private might be appropriate, but we could order some food to go first".
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday December 11th, 2018 7:54:32 AM
Fang is not particularly interested in trying the local cuisine. SHE is much more interested in taking care of business. "This chapel is as good a place as any to meet now that everyone is gone." she points out, "We can go eat after we take care of the business at hand."
Valdor [Gold and Platinum Dragon, Dragonstone] (Jerry--playing him as an NPC) Tuesday December 11th, 2018 9:46:15 AM
We are at your service. However, a private place to meet is needed. You know the area. The boat would be fine. If the inn has a private room, that would work. We could even go into that keep, I guess. The place is not important. It is tradition that you relate the story of your first trial to us.
He smiles and steps back waiting on the "Black Lions" [Is that what they are still called he wonders] to take the lead.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Tuesday December 11th, 2018 10:24:47 AM "Well, it seems a decision is needed. Let us go to the Lionfish. She has served us well, and it seem fit that we should have important conversations there. For a group this large... Rill glances in Bosk's direction, "we will need to meet in the hold, but aside from some loot from our last foray, the hold is empty."
Rill will approach the pub and go whomever seems to be in charge there.
"Ah, Good barkeep - I would like to know if you can send food, ale and wine to the Lionfish down at the docks. We need enough for about 20 people. Here is 100 gold, and you can let me know if you require more."
Assuming the person is willing to accommodate this request, we'll proceed down the our ship. Once there, we'll make places to sit in the hold, get the food squared away, and have our conversation.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Tuesday December 11th, 2018 5:37:31 PM
What a time for the old man to have left. He would have loved telling this story. Still, he knows Rill will do a fair job of it, and the others can fill in the details.
Ingrge finds himself walking alongside Fang as the group makes there way to the Lionfish.
So tell me Fang, How are you finding the rest of the Wold compared to the Scab? I spent quite a bit of time with the Dwarven folk and Drow that lived there. It can be quite beautiful for someone who knows where to look and yet the Scab can be a very harsh Mistress as well.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Tuesday December 11th, 2018 6:19:11 PM
Bralin walks with the rest of the group to the Lionfish.
He heartily approves of Rill as her new captain, and wordlessly awaits the next event.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday December 11th, 2018 7:05:09 PM
Fang looks at Ingrge in surprise. How did he know that she was originally from the scab? Regardless she answers the question as best she can. "Long has it been since i lived there and I'm afraid the pain of losing everything I knew has long poisoned any memories of it's beauty. I have at times considered going back to try to heal that land, but I fear it is far beyond my power. The scars run too deep for a simple priestess to heal. Better I focus my efforts on things I can fix with my axe and my will such as these pirates we recently vanquished."
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Tuesday December 11th, 2018 7:40:59 PM
Jozhur rushes ahead to the Lionfish to set up the meeting place. He gets the crew to help him move things around and sets up makeshift tables and chairs.
Assessment
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Wednesday December 12th, 2018 5:25:25 AM
Jass attaches himself to Bralin and Tahni, vaguely waving towards the harbor. “ A nice walk and a private dinner is the ticket!”, he exclaims.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Wednesday December 12th, 2018 6:24:31 AM
Tahni's ear prick up at the mention of the Scab. She makes a note to try and speak with Ingrge in private later. He may have information that could help her search.
"What? Oh. Yes. Dinner" Tahni gestures towards the tavern to escort Jass
Ingrge Nightseer; Emerald Dragons - Dragon Consortium Wednesday December 12th, 2018 8:08:45 AM
Continuing the conversation, Ingrge pauses a bit and unconsciously brings his hand up to his scarred face for a moment.
"I understand very well, I found that returning to the place that caused the greatest pain very cathartic, but it took me a while to get to that stage. I also understand the feeling of things being beyond my power. There were times before we took out Parnoth that we all felt powerless to help ourselves let alone a whole country....
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Wednesday December 12th, 2018 11:16:35 AM
Upon reaching the ship, Rill is glad to see the industrious Jozhur took the initiative to get the crew working on making the hold a suitable meeting place. Well, mostly suitable - it is still a ship's hold. Rill let's Tula know that Zeoll was called away, and that while Rill will act as captain he needs Tula to continue to see to the day-to-day running of the ship and crew. He uses the strip of flag that Jozhur gave him to change the ship's standard to show a white dragon against a black background to reflect the meeting guests.
As all arrive and the food is later brought, Rill will turn to Fang and ask that she call for Alemi's blessing on the food and the meeting.
After that, he addresses the assembled guests.
"Welcome to our humble vessel that has become our home on the seas of the Wold. I wish we had a place more fitting for such legendary persons as yourselves.
"We were set to a task and it is done, though one escaped. We can likely chase that miscreant down if needed. What would you have us do next?"
DM Kathy Wednesday December 12th, 2018 11:17:57 AM
[Everybody (except the Dragons) please take 98,000 XP for the previous scene.]
You decide, on balance, that the Lionfish would be the best place to meet, so you begin making your way to the docks. Yesterday's rain is, fortunately, a thing of the past; the morning is cool but clear.
Reaching the docks, you realize that the Black Falcon is no longer there. She must have departed while you were restoring the temple. That may or may not spell trouble for the future, but for now you have other matters to attend to.
In the hold of the Lionfish, you make yourselves reasonably comfortable on lockers, boxes, and piles of canvas. Food arrives from the pub--hot soup along with bread and cheese and a small cask of ale. Given the time of day, it's more like brunch than dinner, but it is very welcome nonetheless.
And now the meeting can begin in earnest.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Wednesday December 12th, 2018 4:46:05 PM
(dragons don't get out of bed for less than 100,000xp!)
Terser is surprised to hear that Fang comes from the Scab as well. He didn't know any of her clan when he was there, and is ashamed of himself for not engaging with her about it earlier. He supposes it hasn't been long since she joined the crew, and between dealing with cultists and krakens, there hasn't been much time for pleasantries.
Still, this is something he will rectify. Ingrge - when was the last time you were back in the Scab? I haven't seen it in years, but perhaps between Tahni, Fang, and myself, we will find a way to return and help to restore it someday. Though I didn't fit in the family mold, I would do well for them should I have the chance.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Wednesday December 12th, 2018 5:39:43 PM
Bralin dutifully walks Jass to the Lionfish. "Welcome aboard The Lionfish", he tells the man. "A finer vessel, I do not know."
The dwarf leads his companion to the hold, where he notes Jozhur and Tula and the crew have hastily assembled a meeting place. He nods in approval.
Taking a perch on a nearby crate, he turns again to Jass.
"You are welcome here, of course. But, I am curious as to why you have come. Have you another quest for us?"
Ingrge Nightseer; Emerald Dragons - Dragon Consortium Wednesday December 12th, 2018 6:00:23 PM
Looking around at the others Dragons, Ingrge stops and then looks to Bralin,
"Well that remains to be seen at this point. We may have something in mind, but we would first like to hear from you all on how this last quest went what you faced what went wrong what went right and what if anything you might do differently if faced with the same situations?
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday December 12th, 2018 7:43:35 PM
With the prospect of fine food and ale being brought to the Fish Aex is happy to return. Back on board she first checks on her latest herb collections and the weeds she was boiling in preparation of her next concoction.
The she returns to the hold to sit with her friends and the Dragons. Oh well... it is but a small cask of ale but a whole lot of people around the table. Future stories would probably relate how the Black Lions and the Dragons emptied the little casks in no time... but hey... it's comfy, home, tastes good and the company is admirable.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Wednesday December 12th, 2018 8:21:39 PM
Jozhur helps himself to some soup and a little ale. He ponders Ingrge's question, they never formally talked about such things, but perhaps it would be a good practice.
When it comes his turn to speak Jozhur has a couple points, "I wish we could have captured or killed Dekkar to ensure he is no longer a threat to anyone, but he is a slippery bugger and was expecting us. Tactically, splitting up as we went into the keep caused some problems, but everyone being stuck in the doorway was not a good alternative."
Valdor [Gold and Platinum Dragon, Dragonstone] (Jerry--playing him as an NPC) Wednesday December 12th, 2018 9:34:34 PM
Yes we have a bit of information about your final challenge, but we'd like to hear the story of your first one. He sets a crystal pyramid upon the table and speaks a command word and it begins to glow.
"This should give us privacy from any observation by any being other than a full god. Feel free to add any wards of your own choosing.
"Yes it has happened before."
Bosk (James D) Iron Dragon of Hook City Thursday December 13th, 2018 12:15:43 AM
Bosk sips a particularly dark ale as he prepares to listen to the others tale.
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Thursday December 13th, 2018 10:33:37 AM
Jass smiles at Bralin, lays a finger aside his nose, and nods at Ingrge. “Talking after helps reinforce personal and team tactics, what went well and what could have been done better. “
“Now, leaders and dwarfs usually concentrate on what didn’t go right. But if you were successful (and you WERE successful, eh?) you have good points too. So, Master Bralin, tell me of your great deeds!”
The undead-looking Sorcerer appears to be in earnest, listening intently to Bralin and each of the Black Lions as they speak of their exploits.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Thursday December 13th, 2018 1:41:06 PM "I think our biggest concern each time we encountered Lifebb and his minions was how to limit the loss of innocent life. I think that having to chase him down again is worth it, considering that each time we were able to free all of the captured folk and return them to some semblance of a normal life.
And how many more bases of operations could he have? He's lost his ship, his keep, and dozens of minions. We've always given the grunts the option of defecting once the leader abandoned them. With his recent track record, he's going to start losing troops before we even get there."
DM Kathy Thursday December 13th, 2018 1:59:11 PM
As the meeting begins, the Dragons ask about the recent mission and how it went. Many of the Black Lions, however, are more concerned with The One That Got Away.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Thursday December 13th, 2018 2:13:10 PM
These kind of after-the-fact assessments are good, though they can be difficult to retell. Rill gives this some thought before speaking up. Eventually though, he chimes in.
”You have asked us to assess our performance on this task. The simplest assessment is that this went well, and as Jozhur pointed out we made a mistake that could have been a bit disastrous.
“We set out to disrupt a dragon cult. We intercepted some of their slaving operations, and this led us to a very large ship which was a sort of headquarters on the seas. We used divination spells to anticipate what we might face. Tactically, we used another ship to minimize the risk to the Lionfish and our crew, and we used magic items and teleportation magics to deal with the unanticipated as we went. We defeated a very large kraken that eventually fled the fight. Dekkar Lifebb also fled, and we used information and divination to chase him to this island.
“Once on this island our party used investigation skills to determine were the threat was. We were perhaps a bit hasty in our assault on the keep where the cult was hold up, but has to be a limit to endless preparation - sometime, you just gotta attack. Jozhur is right - the decision for some of us to teleport to the back of the room looking like it was going to end badly, but we pulled together as a party to rectify that. In the end, Dekkar escaped again.
“The key that I see is that we generally know what each other can and cannot do, and we do our best to enable and rely on each other's strengths, compensating for weaknesses where we need to. We do well reacting to unanticipated changes. A concern that I always have is becoming overconfident in our abilities.
“Oh, and it also helps that six our of the seven of us have some healing magics.”
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday December 13th, 2018 6:09:46 PM
Aex nods as Rill describes how the last fight went. It did end with a minor victory since Dekkar escpaed yet again but it could have ended sour... the little greenmage is not a fan of all that jumping around...
"What's wrong with using a proper door anyway?!"
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday December 13th, 2018 7:07:57 PM
Fang, for one, is very unhappy and concerned that the leader escaped. "We should have anticipated his flight and tried to stop it in some way. I'm not sure how, I"m not the best at planning, but it's going to come back to bite someone, somewhere sooner or later. You don't treat stop treating a disease just because the patient is doing better, you have to cleanse it entirely from the system or it'll just spread again, stronger and more resistant to treatment."
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Thursday December 13th, 2018 8:18:26 PM
“Ah,” Bralin understands now. “Ye wish a tale.”
“Very well”
The dwarf, mug in hand, climbs atop his crate.
“T’was mere weeks ago when members of your august body” - raises his mug toward Bosk - “charged us to prove our worthiness by destroying this branch of the Dragon Cult, and Gimp ported us to Bonetown.”
“We’re given but a single clue, to seek the Bloodkin. But, nothing more about the Bloodin, or their whereabouts were provided. In truth, no more than that was needed. When the likes of Rill, and Terser, and Zeoll begin searching, nothing remains hidden for long.
Following the trail they discovered, we first journeyed to Market Island, where, under cover of a fog bank conjured by Aexana, we waylaid a Bloodkin vessel and easily overcame her crew. No less than three vessels came to their comrades rescue. We overcame them all. Now, knowing the ships were all crewed by slaves, we were forced to take great pains not to sink the craft. Instead, by means of flight, teleport, and dimension door, we boarded each ship in turn, killed or captured the crew, freed the slaves, and met up with our latest companion, Fang.
We took one of the four ships for use in our next attack, scuttled one deemed unseaworthy, and gave the other two to the freed slaves.
After questioning the captured crew, t’was on to the flagship of the Bloodkin, The Bloodreaver. ‘Ere we reached her, our own ship was attacked by a mighty Kraken. With spell, sword, and axe we drove it from our ship, made hasty repairs, again with much help from Aexana, and resumed our journey.
Realizing the foe now knew of our approach, Rill activated a Fan Feather Token, causing our ship to race across the sea. Catching sight of The Bloodreaver, we found our ploy worked, and we had gained surprise. Again, Rill teleported most of us to the deck of the Bloodreaver, avoiding the possibility of encountering the Kraken again. Aboard that vessel rang out a battle for the ages. As noted, a Dragon Cult mage of great power proved troublesome. Yet we overcame his comrades, and he fled.
We followed him to this place, where we assaulted yon keep. To avoid confinement in a narrow hallway, Rill and I and others teleported to the back of the hall, intending to destroy the foe between us. But, they were stronger and more numerous than we expected, and for a moment we were in danger of being slain piecemeal. But, the Black Lions are no easy prey. With Walls of Stone, Blade Barriers, and ferocious winds, our casters isolated their men, breaking up the attack. Summoned companions healed our most grievously wounded. Our warriors cut through the foe.
In the end, all the enemy were slain or captured, save one. The slaves were freed, and the villagers released from their overlords.”
Bralin raises his mug. “And now, we revel in the spoils of our victory, drink with our comrades in arm, and sing of our mighty deeds!”
With that, the dwarf drains his mug, and sits back down.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Friday December 14th, 2018 4:36:40 AM
Tahni smiles and raises a mug. It was good to see the party in high spirits, and the tale from Bralin is a fair account. She stays quiet throughout though.
Dahlia Light Fingers, Gold & Platinum Dragons, Dragon Consortium Friday December 14th, 2018 6:17:46 AM
Dahlia lifts he mug in a gesture of well done, then takes a drink in tribute.
Ingrge Nightseer; Emerald Dragons - Dragon Consortium Friday December 14th, 2018 8:32:22 AM
Well it sounds like you had some difficulties but came through them pretty well. As for Dekkar, Ingrge chuckles to himself. No doubt you will run across him again at some point. I won't tell you the number of times Parnoth slipped through our fingers and managed to escape his doom. And The Golds had a nemesis or two that kept escaping and popping back up as well...I seem to recall Flame, and wasn't there a thief (Korig) or something like that, and his crew that kept getting away....
So, I wouldn't stress overly about him right now. I am sure you will get to a satisfactory ending with him at some point in time.
More importantly perhaps... Ingrge pauses and looks over to Valdor, Jass and Bosk...
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Friday December 14th, 2018 10:56:02 AM
Jass listens and makes encouraging comments through Bralin’s story.
“Not all Power is in the fight, eh? Seeking and traveling are just as important!”
“Yes! Protect those that can’t protect themselves.”
“I agree, plan as best you may, but an OK plan executed violently is better than a perfect plan too late.”
The Sorcerer becomes thoughtful on the description of escaping mages, then leans in conspiratorially. “Yes, villains are often evil, but seldom stupid, more’s the pity, and mages more so than most. But a ‘Dimensional Anchor’ Spell often takes those magical options of escape away, and can be a nasty surprise. If you don’t have a caster with the spell, a scroll does in a pinch!”
DM Kathy Friday December 14th, 2018 1:57:15 PM
You report on your recent adventure to the Dragons. It all went well, apart from that pesky Dekkar Lifebb.
A couple of points of correction about Master Lifebb. You've seen enough of his spells to know that he is a cleric, not a mage. Also, you know from your conversations with captured cultists that he was the liaison between the Middle Seas Death Dragon cult and the Bloodkin. He was not the leader of the Middle Seas Death Dragon cult--that honor belonged to a man named Tyzos Nightshade, who is now dead on the floor of the keep. So you did get the main bad guy--it was one of his lieutenants who escaped.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Friday December 14th, 2018 2:32:17 PM
Rill is impressed with Bralin's recounting of our tale. He also smiles at Jass' remarks.
"An OK plan executed violently is better than a perfect plan too late? You know Jass, you don't look like a dwarf, but you talk like one. And your advice about casting Dimensional Anchor is well taken."
Valdor [Gold and Platinum Dragon, Dragonstone] (Jerry--playing him as an NPC) Friday December 14th, 2018 6:22:33 PM
Valdor holds up a drink. "To the Black Lions! May their heroism continue to make Bonetown a better and safer place to live! And most importantly may the people of Bonetown forever be thankful!!
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Friday December 14th, 2018 7:07:27 PM
Nodding approvingly, Jozhur raises his mug and downs it all at the completion of Bralin's tale.
He grunts at Jass's comment, "Indeed, violence in action is key. I'd say we were plenty violent." The human grabs another mug of ale and listens intently for what the Dragons have to say next. He also looks at the puny cask, wondering how long it will last.
Dahlia Light Fingers, Gold & Platinum Dragons, Dragon Consortium Saturday December 15th, 2018 6:31:17 AM
Dahlia raises he glass at Valdor’s toast then adds a toas of her own, “May your enemies fear you more than you fear them, and may they find the end they have rightfully earned!”
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Saturday December 15th, 2018 8:45:18 AM
Fang takes a mental note about the dimensional anchor suggestion. Maybe she'd better get some of those scrolls?
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Saturday December 15th, 2018 12:31:01 PM
Bralin takes a great swig from mug after each toast, requiring an additional mug to get through them all.
Having said more than his fair share for the evening, the dwarf is content to eat, drink, and wait for the Dragons to reveal the next quest.
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Saturday December 15th, 2018 12:55:25 PM
Jass gives a rictus grin and a nod at Jozhur’s comment. “I’ve never been one for over planning. Was never interested in planning at all until I was killed and lived as a ghost for a month.” He Shakes off the mood and raises his glass for another toast. “To friends and companions who will stand by you, even to Fae Skiemir!”
It is impossible for the undead Sorcerer to look innocent, but he tries his best as he widens his eyes at Valdor. “What? Too soon?”
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Saturday December 15th, 2018 7:00:07 PM "Uh... lived as a ghost for a month?" Tahni had no idea a person could do that. You'd probably have to be on very good terms with Gargul. Of course, Jass is a part of the Consortium so they're probably on a first name basis.
Valdor [Gold and Platinum Dragon, Dragonstone] (Jerry--playing him as an NPC) Sunday December 16th, 2018 4:15:54 PM
Valdor, mid-drink, sputters and gags at Jass' comment.
He coughs, laughs, and turns beet red. "Oh holy Lem!"
He spends some time recovering.
Then with a totally serious look on his face glances around the room. Then his eyes center on Jass.
"I'm sending you with them."
Ingrge Nightseer; Emerald Dragons - Dragon Consortium Sunday December 16th, 2018 7:28:39 PM
Now Valdor don't handicap the Lionfishers like that. At least give them a chance......
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Sunday December 16th, 2018 7:58:05 PM
Aex is amused as the tales go around. While not all plans have been executed according to plan it is with teamwork that every encounter had been overcome till now. Yes there's much to improve...
Then she captures Valdor's direct message to Jass... was he joking? His face clearly says the opposite...
DM Kathy Sunday December 16th, 2018 8:29:33 PM
You finish recounting your adventures to the Dragons. There is a round of toasts. So far, the cask seems to be holding out just fine.
Then Jass mentions something about Fae Skiemir, and says he spent time as a ghost. Valdor chokes on his ale and threatens to send Jass with you--but which remark was he reacting to?
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Monday December 17th, 2018 12:41:54 PM "I'm still unsure where or what a Fey Skimmer is. But before we trundle off anywhere else, we still have a number of matters to attend to here. We have prisoners to deal with and a keep to raze. Also, there may yet be some of the slaves we found that are not native to his island. We should at least secure them passage to whereever they call home.
"Oh, and a visit to the Catacombs is needed, but not until after we know where we're headed next. There may be items we need, and I have some things I must replenish.
"By the way, who's Lem?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Monday December 17th, 2018 1:42:53 PM
Terser is still stuck on the living as a ghost remark. How does one live if they are dead? No matter though. Terser has been to Gargul's realm once, and as much respect as he has for the God, he means to avoid him again until he dies valiantly in glorious battle many years from now.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Monday December 17th, 2018 6:43:52 PM
Bralin listens. And drinks.
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Monday December 17th, 2018 6:47:59 PM
Jass is about to answer Tahni when Valdor makes what little color drain from the Sorcerer's corpse-like face. Thinking quickly, he shrugs. "Well, of course I would be honored to, but it would hardly be a good Second Test. As it is, it looks like the Black Lions are really looking for more information than a name, eh? And I don't think you want me to be the one telling it, eh?"
Valdor [Gold and Platinum Dragon, Dragonstone] (Jerry--playing him as an NPC) Monday December 17th, 2018 7:55:45 PM
Very slowly his serious face changes back to a warm smile. "Jass, I couldn't very well let that opportunity pass me by could I my old friend."
We are indeed sending you to Fae Skiemir, City of Greed. It will challenge you in every way. Combat, inner strength, cooperation under stress, with a goal to accomplish.
You will indeed have all the time you need to prepare, Rill. Finish up all your business, both from your last trial and preparing for the next. Be sure your affairs are in order. Oh, and by the way, Lem is a shortening of Alemi's name. It is what Domi used to call him when they were mortals.
I'll tell you a bit about Fae Skiemir just to get your thinking to flowing. It is located in one of Maab's Vales of Twilight. There is more treasure there than in any other single location...well anywhere. But that is not why we are sending you there.
You are looking to join the Dragon Consortium. It is the most elite group of adventurers anywhere. The challenges that get thrown our way is very challenging in exactly the same ways that Fae Skiemir is challenging.
It will test your individual and group combat skills as well as your ability to lead people and negotiate agreements. It will test both your inner and outer strength. If a person has a flaw that will hurt your adventuring team, this place is likely to bring that out. If you, the Black Lions, survive this trial, you will be able to deal with anything this Wold can throw at you.
When you are ready to go, contact me and I will return. I let you know what you will be going there to do, how to get there, and anything else that you need to know about before embarking on this grand quest.
I hate saying this part, but it is very true and needs to be said. The DC is not for every adventuring group. There is no dishonor in deciding after this mission that you no longer wish to join us. We'll still be friends and allies, just not brothers of the Dragon Consortium.
We wish you success. We need you in the Dragon Consortium. Joining us will bring your hometown much honor and your ability to influence the Wold around you will greatly increase. It will give us in the DC a new set of allies. Some of us are way past needing to step down and pass the mantle on to others.
I should not say anything more specific now. Part of the challenge is finding your own way and learning how to deal with the challenges of the place.
He pauses for a second and seems to remember something from his past. He sits and finishes his drink.
Ingrge Nightseer; Emerald Dragons - Dragon Consortium Monday December 17th, 2018 8:19:32 PM
Ingrge pause for a moment and then looks to Valdor:
I guess I can tell you a little about Fae Skiemir. And you can tell them the rest.
He takes in a deep breath and lets it out in a long sigh. Fae Skiemir, the sound is almost one of longing and loss..
The City of Song, of Hope Reborn, the City of Beauty, and now the City of Darkness and Terror.
There are more legends, songs, stories and more adventures surrounding Fae Skiemir than arguably any other city.
Once it was considered to be the most beautiful and peaceful of any of the cities in the twilight lands and no other could compare to the glory of Fae Skiemir at its height.
Magic flowed within the surrounding air, water, and land, and peace and prosperity second to none gave every citizen reason to be happy.
All races lived in complete harmony for the first time in memory, without fear or corruption, under the protective device of the Mythal, one of the greatest spells in perhaps all of the Realms.
The races merged and formed many alliances amid the myriad guard units, military, guilds, and magisters.
But the City's peace and glory did not last. Like everything else time caught up to Fae Skiemir, as well as greed, gluttony, conceit and treachery. In the end, even Fae Skiemir fell.
Maab had the elves that were the last to leave, leave the place hidden and sealed, for the most part, and the city faded into legend, lost in History, one of the most dangerous adventuring sites in all of Planes.
It has remained so for the past six centuries, the city's ruins have now become home to many lethal predators including alhoons, devils, dragons, the Cult of the Dark Naga and phaerimms, and any sort of miscellaneous adventurers. And there are rumors of colonies of deepspawn inhabiting the under regions of the city......
Done Ingrge's voice trails down into silence.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Monday December 17th, 2018 8:23:13 PM
Fang listens intently to the short description of the city. "Sounds like a fun place. Why does anyone even go in there, other than for greed? Why not just let it lie abandoned?"
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday December 17th, 2018 8:33:52 PM
Aexana does not interfere when the Dragons tell their tale but she does Wenn Rill suggests a psamlrdd mody : will be interesting .nd to
DM Kathy Monday December 17th, 2018 10:38:22 PM
And now you reach the point of the conversation. Valdor and Ingrge tell you about Fae Skiemir and the danger it represents. Besting it will prove you worthy to stand beside the Dragons--but can you succeed?
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Tuesday December 18th, 2018 11:51:16 AM "To be sure, I am honored - I think we are all honored - to be invited to join such an esteemed group. And none of us would be here if we did not already accept this challenge and all it brings.
"One concern I have is this trip to Fae Skiemir. I am not so much worried about the difficulty of the task nor the dangers we will face, though I'm sure it is a serious test. But we have a responsibility to the Wold to do good where we can. For it is written, 'Do not fear death. Fear instead a wasted life.'
"Ingre's tale implies that this place is contained in the Vale's of Twilight. If this place poses no risk to the Wold, why send us there? If we journey to this Fae Skiemir only to prove ourselves to you, I'm not sure that's worth putting at risk all the gods have invested in us. Gargul has called me to this group of adventurers, and I am responsible to him for how I use his power. I seek neither glory nor honor, but only to do his will. And he expects me to discern his will to the best of my ability.
"With all due respect, and you are due much respect, I need to understand the value of this task. I need to understand that doing this betters the Wold and is worth risking lives."
Rill is interested in the response from these DC members, and it attitude is submissive and respectful. He will also cast Divination, asking "Should the Black Lions travel to Fae Skiemir to undertake this trial of the Dragon Consortium?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 d100=63 ; Tuesday December 18th, 2018 11:53:14 AM
(Oops - forgot to roll the Divination chance. 85% chance of success. Rolled 63% - Success!)
You ask good questions and sometimes there are good answers and sometimes they are less good.
Apparently over time the protections that kept Fae Skiemir truly separate form the Wold, have and are weakening, which has lead to some very unsettling disturbances in several places around the Wold.
So sending you there has never been so much about proving yourself to us, but to lessen Fae Skiemir's overall threat to the Wold, and more to show the Wold that you are ready and capable to protect it from all necessary evils and finally to prove to yourselves that you can handle anything that the Wold may need you to.
We do not go into offering any of these challenges, to different groups, through whim alone. we consult with those whose knowledge is greater than ours and through these consultations we gather a sense of what needs to be done and who perhaps should be doing them. The overall feeling was that at this time the Black Lions should address Fae Skiemir. Whether you do or do not is as Valdor said, up to you.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday December 18th, 2018 4:44:02 PM
(OOC - hmmm just read what I wrote yesterday... it makes no sense... fact is I slept 9 hours combined over 3 days and I literally fell a sleep while I was making this post it seems. Sorry)
Maybe it was the warmth, perhaps the ale, or the relaxing feeling of being home with a fantastic group of friends but somewhere during dinner Aex begins to nod at the table. Her eyes feel so heavy...
... catacombs... yes I need to go there! Wait for me!!
... Dekkar we will get you next time...
... Fang! Watch out!!!...
... gonna miss that old taur...
... Black Lions... no Black Dragons...
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) d100=83 ; Tuesday December 18th, 2018 5:14:43 PM
Terser was wondering what was getting into Aexana. Maybe being a monkey too long was affecting her speech patterns. Still, Rill asks good questions, and Ingrge's answers seem reasonable. But what can they do about weakening protection spells?
Perhaps the ancestors know something. He tries to call back to someone who was alive back in the time of Fae Skiemir's grandeur and fall to ask what they know of it.
divination: How can we renew the protections keeping the Wold safe from Fae Skiemir? 83% vs 85% = success
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Tuesday December 18th, 2018 5:42:28 PM
Bralin regards Valdor carefully. The man's familiarity with the gods is unnerving, and the dwarf wonders if such companions are in his future should they overcome Fae Skiemir.
Ingrge's description of the horrors of this place raises concerns as well. The dwarf begins to mentally compose a list of items to be procured for a quest of a lifetime.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday December 18th, 2018 6:39:43 PM
Fang listens then grunts non-commitilly.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Tuesday December 18th, 2018 9:33:00 PM
Jozhur smiles at Fang, "Sounds like quite the party, eh?" He thumbs the dagger on his belt, "I should buy a better blade".
Turning to Ingrge and Valdor, "I live for adventure now. I'm more than willing to go to this...Fae Skimmer. It sounds like quite the challenge, we will need to work together and use all of our individual strengths together if we want to make it back."
DM Kathy Tuesday December 18th, 2018 10:29:42 PM
As you discuss whether to accept this mission from the Dragon Consortium, some of you consult the gods for guidance.
Rill asks "Should the Black Lions travel to Fae Skiemir to undertake this trial of the Dragon Consortium?" His reply: Those who would achieve their full potential must undertake great risks.
Terser asks: "How can we renew the protections keeping the Wold safe from Fae Skiemir?" His reply: The work of the mason is not for the blacksmith.
Meanwhile, Bralin begins composing a shopping list, and Aexana has a little nap. Jozhur, for one, seems ready to agree to the mission.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Wednesday December 19th, 2018 1:05:15 AM
Rill shares the result of his Divination.
"OK, Gargul says go. Hey, you DC guys have been to Fae Skiemir. Any advice about stuff to bring or spells to prepare? Will we find any allies there?
"Where did Bosk and Dalia go?"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Wednesday December 19th, 2018 4:16:09 AM
Tahni sits quietly and stares into her mug. Fae Skiemir. She had heard tales of that place. None of them good.
Still, if Gargul said to go there then there must be a good reason to go.
OOC: Sorry guys for my posting of late. Not so pleasant family things to deal with
Valdor [Gold and Platinum Dragon, Dragonstone] (Jerry--playing him as an NPC) Wednesday December 19th, 2018 8:09:24 AM
"I couldn't have said it better, Ingrge. Those sent there or born there we definitely want to keep there and keep their interests focused within their own valley. On the other end of the matter, if they never see anything different, they can't learn anything different and won't change. If they don't change, they will remain there.
"I'll admit that 40 years ago, we did tend to go there more for the loot. It helped us fund the DC, help those in need, etc. For awhile, the Gold Dragons went yearly. However, after....the death of King Claudia we lost our way for awhile. Even after we got back together and formed the Platinum Dragons with some other DC members, we never returned.
As for your future name, consider that carefully. There was a Black Dragons group before. A few of them still live, but they are older than us. And they turned...we had to fight them several times. So if you take that name, they won't like it, but I doubt they could do anything about it at their age. And though some will remember the old, creating a new group with your quality and reputation could be a very good thing. I am not trying to influence you, just advise you of the history of the name.
"Anyway, thanks for putting up with us...and being willing to join with us." He stands and bows. respectfully.
"DC friends, I believe it is probably time to leave them to their business." Almost as an afterthought, he pulls a jewelry box out of a pocket with a short flash of light. He places it on a nearby crate. "This ring is not a full DC ring, but it will let you contact any of us if you need us, or have more questions. Just speak into it. When you join us after this trial, we will gift you full rings with full 2 way communication, teleportation, etc. Give me a shout when you are ready to leave."
He offers every Black Lion his hand as he turns to leave. "It has truly been a pleasure. We are honored that you will join us."
Dahlia Light Fingers, Gold & Platinum Dragons, Dragon Consortium Wednesday December 19th, 2018 1:23:21 PM
“Good luck guys!”, Dahlia says as Valdor prepares to depart, “We believe in you guys, you can do it!” When she thinks they are out of ear shot of the Black Lions, (even though she isn’t) she asks, “Do you think they can handle it?”
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Wednesday December 19th, 2018 6:10:38 PM
Terser gives Tahni a big ol' dwarf hug, as he also has family struggles to deal with, especially with the Yuletide approaching.
On mention of a group name, he will mention that he's always liked Amethyst (the gem and the colour).
He's also got some shopping to do, once business here is done and he can hitch a teleport.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Wednesday December 19th, 2018 6:27:46 PM
The Dragons leave. Bralin lets a smirk slip at Dahlia's statement. Of course the Lions can handle it.
Knowing that Rill still has a Catacombs trip planned, Bralin refrains from serious shopping until he returns.
There is one thing. Putting down his mug, he turns to Rill.
Ingrge stands with the other dragons and looks around at the Black Lions for a moment. Nods his head for a moment and as a party salutation says, Yup I think you all will do just fine. He raises his hand in a salute goodbye and simply just isn't there any more.
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Wednesday December 19th, 2018 7:36:39 PM
Jass, keeping quiet and letting the DC who know about the city to take the lead.
The discussion is clearly over, thinks the Sorcerer. He rises to leave. “Good Luck, and we’ll see you again. Be sure of it!”
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Wednesday December 19th, 2018 7:49:39 PM
Jozhur shakes Valdor's hand when offered and bids all the Dragons adieu. He notices Tahni looks a little down and puts a hand on her shoulder, nodding in silent reassurance.
He begins mentally preparing for the trip, thinking of any items which may come in handy.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday December 19th, 2018 8:20:06 PM
Aex's head just nearly hits her plate when she suddenly shakes up... the Dragons are leaving! Oh no... did she sleep through most of this meeting?!? Her cheeks turn red as she sheepishly stands and shakes hands with them before they go. Hopefully they'll forgive an old lass...
Like Brain, Aex intends to go to the Catacombs before they go to this Fae Skiemir. She just wished she did not sleem through most of this gathering... at least she would know what they are up against.
Then she scuttles over to Leafy and gives him a little stomp... "Why didn't you wake me you... you... tree trunk... . Of course she's not angry at Leafy... just ashamed.
DM Kathy Wednesday December 19th, 2018 10:51:19 PM
With a few parting words of encouragement, the Dragons take their leave. The ale cask is empty, but Tula brings another one from the ship's stores.
It seems as if it's been a long time since the Dragons first appeared, but it's only been a few hours. And you still have the same tasks before you: freed slaves and captured cultists to be dealt with, loot to sell, and possibly, a keep to shake down to its foundations. What would you like to do next?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Thursday December 20th, 2018 2:37:36 AM
Tahni smiles and goes a little bashful. The attention from Jozhur and Terser gives her comfort that whatever lies ahead - difficult as it may be - will be met head on. This group of friends will not be beaten easily.
"If the people here do not want the keep destroyed then perhaps we can aid them in repairing it? Some of the former slaves may want to help and call this place home. Some of the cultists could also be put to hard labor as well as part of the punishment for their crimes. It would also give us a place to rest and prepare for our next steps"
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Thursday December 20th, 2018 1:37:51 PM "Tahni, I cast Augury, asking 'Will it bring weal or woe to the town to cast Earthquake on the keep on the hill.' The response was 'weal.' It take that to mean destruction of the keep is in order. An Earthquake should bring it down easily enough. If it will cause other damage, we can just summon a earth elemental to do the job for us."
Rill, and perhaps others, will speak to the local town leaders to put the fear of Gargul in this and ensure they have turned from their cult-supporting ways. We let them know of the plan to raze the keep. Assuming it is a good distance away and poses no threat to the town, he will cast Earthquake on the keep. If it may threaten the town, Rill can work with Aex to summon some very impressive earth elemental. In either case, it should impress upon the locals that we mean business.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Thursday December 20th, 2018 5:16:00 PM "I agree that it should come down. If it stands, it's that much easier for Lifebb to come back to it once we're gone."
Still, there are only so many people that an island can support. Perhaps they should take some time to find another island sanctuary for future groups of freed people.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday December 20th, 2018 7:03:32 PM
Fang lets the others handle the keep and slaves. She focuses on working with the townsfolk and finding out anything they need the party might be able to provide.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+21=39 ; Thursday December 20th, 2018 7:11:14 PM
With the decision made, Jozhur starts talking to the townfolk, particularly any one of authority. He informs them the Black Lions will be destroying the keep and explains why. Jozhur doesn't want them to be upset about the keep being destroyed.
Diplomacy: 39
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Thursday December 20th, 2018 7:17:34 PM
Bralin makes a side trip to the crumbling keep, and stuffs some of the more interesting stones from its walls into his haversack.
They should make for good base material for future sculptures.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday December 20th, 2018 8:54:17 PM
While some go to check on the keep Aex is more interesting in gathering fresh herbs and plants. After all they might be needing some new potions soon. She hopes Rill will help her again with some nifty spells that she herself can not cast. She spends as much time as they have with gathering. This should allow her to brew plenty of things.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Thursday December 20th, 2018 9:19:05 PM "If the good people of this town wish for the keep to remain then we should respect their wishes. It is their town after all. We should not act against their wishes no matter how wrong they may be. We can't leave a trail of destruction because we think we should. If they agree then yes, we level it. We need to respect the free will of sentient beings. It's what the consortium would expect we should do"
ooc: on my phone so can't check but any lawful good pcs have to respect any lawful authority here. Best we convince the town before we take action
DM Kathy Thursday December 20th, 2018 10:29:57 PM
You decide that your first step will be to level the keep. You speak with the town council about it. They are unsure, at first--the town had been planning to "fix the place up." You know, for the last 20 years or so. Jozhur is able to reason with them--the keep is only useful to the village if somebody is able to live in it and keep it in good repair. Absent a tenant, the best thing is to destroy it. They eventually agree.
Fang also speaks with the townsfolk, asking if there is anything they need. They ask you to carry a letter to Delume, requesting a cleric to replace the man murdered by the cult. Delume is not far out of your way.
Bralin, meanwhile, is able to find a few likely-looking stones for carving. Nearby, Aexana gathers her herbs.
Once you have the go-ahead from the council, Rill casts his spell. The earth shakes. Fissures open in the ground. The keep shudders, and the roof collapses. So do several of the walls. When the shaking stops, however, some walls remain standing, though most of the keep is in ruins. Another casting of the spell should probably finish the job, or you could leave things as they are and trust that the keep is now too damaged to be inhabited.
Terser has a good point in that you can't keep bringing people to Comeri forever, but really, this should be the last bunch and there's only a few of them. You're probably fine on that score.
There are still trips to the Catacombs to be taken, and decisions to be made. But for now, your adventure has wound to a close.
[Everybody take 3,000 XP]
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Friday December 21st, 2018 6:59:27 AM
Fang takes the letter and resists the urge to read it. She mentions she's never been to Delume and asks which god's temple she should take the letter to.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Friday December 21st, 2018 6:51:30 PM
Fang does something interesting and useful so I can get my 5th post in.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Saturday December 22nd, 2018 6:01:44 PM
Satisifed that the keep situation is behind them, Tahni turns to the rest of the group "It sounds like some serious preparations might be needed here. Did we end up working out who wanted to keep what from the loot? There are some things from the Catacombs I'd like to purchase"
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Wednesday December 26th, 2018 10:36:55 PM
Jozhur is currently (temporarily) wearing the Ring of Chameleon Power the party found earlier. He weighs keeping it or taking the ring of protection. In the in end, he chooses to keep the Chameleon ring. Of the remaining loot, none of it particularly interests him.
Jozhur smiles looking over the treasure piled up in the hold, "We should be able to stock up well, and it sounds like we will need to."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Monday December 31st, 2018 11:50:40 PM
Over the following days Tahni finds all sorts of ways to keep herself occupied. She finishes off some crafting she had started, reads a few books, does a little Catacombs shopping, and scribes some new spells into her spellbook*.
Those were the things she had set time aside for "just her".
The rest of the time is spent looking about the town, trying to comfort folk to let them know everything would be ok, and trying to spend some time with Fang. These beastfolk were very new to her and having Fang about was a terrific opportunity to get to know one face-to-face.
OOC: I'm not sure on the exact gold amount we are getting, but at a minimum Tahni will be buying 6 scrolls to copy into her spellbook
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Sunday January 6th, 2019 2:40:11 PM
OoC - I've got first post in 2019 here :-) - best wishes to all of you my friends!
Aex hustles into the bar once again. She'll been out to the catacombs to finally spend some of the Gold the group has gathered. Two odd stones now circle around her head. The rest of her purchases are not noticeable.
"Well... I'm not looking forward to our next journey... but I'm guessing it will be inevitable. What's our heading and plan c'ptain?"
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