DM MikeK - Old Perimon Saturday December 15th, 2018 1:05:04 PM
Dorbin easily finds the exact location of Old Perimon. References to buildings a week’s travel north of it are nowhere to be found. The area was the Crying Wood until quite recently after all, and the prospect of a gruesome death tended to discourage exploration. Dorbin does find one or stories of an adventuring group happening upon groves in the Wood, pristinely manicured gardens seemingly immune to the wild growth occurring elsewhere.
Some discussion is made regarding a gift for Tangleweed, but nothing is finalized.
Sid checks in with Elly.
That night, the Shields complete their preparations. In the morning, the board the Turtle Boat, and make an uneventful, half day trip to the lakeshore. The sight of the woodline with a short beach may bring up memories, but unlike in times past, stepping into the woods brings no oppressive presence with it.
The Shields mark the landing site, bid the Turtle Boat adieu until mid-day tomorrow, and trek into the woods.
Dorbin relates that Old Perimon was intended as a logging town, and thus is only a quarter mile inland. The party moves through the undergrowth and around trees while listening to the hum of insects and birdsong.
After a short hike, Dorbin announces the party has reached the location of Old Perimon. And yes, he is quite sure this is the place. He may need to reassure the group several more times, because at first glance, and even the second, this hunk of woods looks like every other hunk of woods.
There is a slight, kinda clearing to the group’s front, dominated by an ancient oak tree. And there is a stream, running north to south just behind the oak.
Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { There are bricks in the oak, as if it grew up through a chimney } Perception DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { At the party’s feet, the ground appears to be slightly elevated by a couple inches in a straight line running to the right and to the left. The elevation is about 1’ foot in width. Perhaps the foundation of a stone wall }
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 45/45 AC: 19; Melee +6;Perc+10;Heal+9 d20+10=13 ; Saturday December 15th, 2018 6:18:26 PM "Really, Dorbin, are you sure ya reading that map right," Bartomus asked when the came upon the giant oak and the stream. He shrugged and looked back at Dorbin as he sat down the backpack he was carrying. "Are you sure we are in the right place, easy to get turned about in the woods and all. I expected a building, or three, hereabouts."
Sid(Andrew) HP: 39/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+11=13 ; d20+11=15 ; Saturday December 15th, 2018 10:53:29 PM
"This is nice," Sid says as he pulls out paper, ink and quill. He writes a quick letter to Ellie letting that they have made it. He summons a token bird and ties the message to it and lets it go. "I'm sure we'll have no problems in such a pretty place." Sid looks like he genuinely is enjoying the thought of this camping expedition.
Dirk Devlin (Joe) HP: 59/59 AC: 20/14/17 CMB: 5 CMD: 17 d20+9=15 ; d20+9=24 ; d20+8=14 ; d20+9=24 ; Sunday December 16th, 2018 12:51:54 PM "Interesting tree." Dirk says as he walks up towards the ancient tree. He takes a look at it, admiring it before placing a hand on it and walking around the tree.
"This is an impressive tree, I could see hundreds of different creatures using it as a home for many years." Dirk looks up into the branches and back around at the base of the tree to find anything interesting.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 36/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+14=18 ; Sunday December 16th, 2018 6:11:33 PM
Stohp too has trouble making out how this place could be the former logging camp (perception 18, can make it if someone aid anothers me). If it happened like that farm we saw there could be nothing left of the place but splinters. I doubt there'd be many signs left at this point. We should send a message back letting Jasper know so they know to bring tents."
Micah (John) HP: 52/52 AC: 16/12/16) CMD:18 d20+4=7 ; Sunday December 16th, 2018 11:02:53 PM
Micah gazes at the scene Dorbin claims to be the site of Old Perimon. Not inclined to doubt the young wizard, he takes a look using his magic sight.
================= Perception 7 Casts detect magic
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Monday December 17th, 2018 9:27:14 AM
"No, no! Yes, I am sure this is the place." He consults the map again. He looks up. "He says, I'm no map reader, but this has to be the place. Look around, surely you can see something that confirms it. Keep in mind, the place was destroyed by the very woods itself!"
OOC: Aid another to help Stohp make the perception check!
Stock (JonM) HP: 72/72; AC: 23/13/20; Per: +12; Surv: +10; SM: +6 d20+12=25 ; Monday December 17th, 2018 12:34:08 PM "Look down. See that raised ground? That used to be a wall. It's all been...not just overgrown...but overcome by the land. Alright. So we head inland?"
Stock takes point and begins leading again into the undergrowth.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 80/80 AC: 19 T: 13 FF: 19 CMD: 22 d20+5=24 ; Monday December 17th, 2018 6:42:46 PM "And that oak looks like it grew through a chimney, see the bricks. This must be the right place. Let's mark it and keep going." --------------- Perception 24
DM MikeK - Plant attack - round 1 d20+20=29 ; d8=1 ; d20+17=19 ; d20+17=18 ; 2d6+8=19 ; d20+2=7 ; Monday December 17th, 2018 8:24:38 PM
Zanderallen and Stock spot some tell tale signs of the destroyed village. Stock points out the slightly elevated ground marking the outer wall, and Zanderallen notes the oak tree seems to have grown out through a chimney.
Stohp and Dorbin bring to mind the destruction the Wood can cause, and what happened there could very well have happened here.
Micah casts a Detect Magic spell. He finds no magical auras.
Bartomus, Dirk, and Sid gather ‘round the ol’ oak tree. Sid writes off a missive to the Missus, while Zanderallen and the other set to marking the sight.
What nobody sees is that one of the hunks of bushes ringing the clearing is, well, not a bush.
As Micah approaches, the mass of vegetation rises, and strikes out at the cleric. One "arm", composed of thick branches, slams into Micah. The cleric feels tendrils attempt to grab ahold of him, but he breaks free. A second arm swings for him as well, but glances off his hastily raised shield.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 39/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+1=12 ; Monday December 17th, 2018 8:35:22 PM
Sid walks up to V16 and pulls his shortsword and says in Sylvan, "Oi, we don't want a fight, but we'll cut you to the roots and burn the rest if you don't stop! Micah's a good one don't deserve it like that."
Dirk Devlin (Joe) HP: 59/59 AC: 20/14/17 CMB: 5 CMD: 17 Monday December 17th, 2018 9:04:56 PM
Dirk quickly unslings his crossbow, advances a few yards and fires his crossbow.
..........................
Dirk Devlin (Joe) HP: 59/59 AC: 20/14/17 CMB: 5 CMD: 17 d20+9=14 ; Monday December 17th, 2018 9:06:27 PM
................ OOC: Sorry I hit enter instead of roll on my iPad. Damage die: 14 (a miss I assume?)
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/15/21; DR 1/-; CMB: 12; CMD: 27; Rage:22/22 Tuesday December 18th, 2018 9:36:21 AM
Stock's head whips around at the sounds and says "What in Domi's name...? On my way Micah." He moves his flail to his right hand and move as quickly as he can to back up the cleric.
So much for the woods not wanting to kill us anymore... ====== Double move next to Micah at W18
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 45/45 AC: 19; Melee +6;Perc+10;Heal+9 d20+6=22 ; d6+1=4 ; Tuesday December 18th, 2018 9:50:07 AM "A might old tree, and apparently the woods reclaimed this place quickly, near thoroughly," Bartomus noted when the others who could see the ruins pointed them out. He was in awe of the giant, ancient looking tree when when he heard the crash of metal. He turned to see a mass of vegetation slamming at Micah and heard Sid's attempt to talk to the creature. He shook his head as he moved to get in closer range, loaded his sling and let a bullet fly at the creature.
---- Move to AA 12; Sling - 22 to hit; 4 pts damage
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 80/80 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 19 CMD: 22 Tuesday December 18th, 2018 10:53:37 AM "Well at least it's one of the guys wearing plate instead of leather this time. So much for happy forest." Zanderallen sprint across the clearing drawing his sword and willing it to burst into flame as he approaches the mass of vegetation. ----------------------------------- Drawing weapon combined with move Full round action Run (80 ft move to V18)
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=21 ; Tuesday December 18th, 2018 1:13:19 PM
Dorbin hears Sid trying to talk to the plant, so he pauses. While he does, he looks around the area to see if there are any other things that look like plants that might be moving like they're not supposed to... or if any other plants look the same as that one that attacked (perception: 21).
Micah (John) HP: 33/52 AC: 28/12/24) CMD:18+4 Tuesday December 18th, 2018 2:20:51 PM "Not undead after all, it seems," says Micah matter of calmly as he holds his ground.
He holds up his shield, hoping to continue to draw its attacks while his allies move in for the assault..
================= Total defense: +4 dodge bonus to AC reflected in in header
Dirk Devlin (Joe) HP: 59/59 AC: 20/14/17 CMB: 5 CMD: 17 Tuesday December 18th, 2018 4:23:23 PM "How are you holding up, Sir Micah?" Dirk shouts over towards his friend after this terrifying, unexpected attack.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 36/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Tuesday December 18th, 2018 6:39:17 PM "This isn't our destination, it could still be undead." Stohp points out.
DM MikeK - Plant attack - round 2 d20+17=20 ; d20+17=30 ; 2d6+8=16 ; d20+17=29 ; 2d6+8=15 ; d20+2=16 ; Tuesday December 18th, 2018 8:24:44 PM
Sid approaches, speaking to the plant in sylvan. He gets no response.
Dirk advances a few yards OOC - Please give a coordinate for destination on combat posts. He fires a crossbow bolt, but it sails wide.
Stock moves up to assist.
Bartomus swings around the oak tree and lets a sling stone fly, but he also misses.
Zanderallen draws his sword and runs up in support.
Dorbin pauses to see if Sid’s words have any effect, checking the landscape for any other plant creatures. He spies none.
Micah holds his ground, and gets defensive.
Stohp wonders if it may be undead.
--
The creature continues to attack.
It strikes out at Micah again, missing with the first blow but connecting on the second. Micah takes 16 hp damage
It then continues, using the momentum of the blow to also strike Zanderallen. Zanderallen takes 15 hp damage. The paladin also feels tendrils from the arm try to grap onto him, but they find no purchase on his armor.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 39/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+10=30 ; Wednesday December 19th, 2018 5:34:31 AM
Sid moves to Q15, which should have him flanking with Z and hacks at the thing. He says, "Hey do you understand me," in Elven, Gnomish, and Celestial, just to make sure. If he gets no response he starts hacking at it.
To Confirm: 17/22(if SA) Damage: 6/10(if SA) SA Damage: 14
((Sorry, hit the wrong button))
Dirk Devlin (Joe) HP: 59/59 AC: 20/14/17 CMB: 5 CMD: 17 d20+9=17 ; d8+1=8 ; Wednesday December 19th, 2018 8:11:39 AM
Dirk now refocuses his aim and fires once again with his crossbow while keeping an eye on Micah who appears to have been hurt.
-------------------------------------- OOC: Apologies, on my accidental enter the other day, I meant to post that I advanced to Y16. Damage Die: 17 Damage (if successful): 8
Stock (JonM) HP: 104/104; AC: 22/13/20; DR 1/-; CMB: 15; CMD: 27; Rage:21/22 d20+12=23 ; d10+19=21 ; d6=1 ; Wednesday December 19th, 2018 9:26:37 AM
Stock darts behind the creature (taking an attack of opportunity; AC is +4 to 28 due to mobility), picks his head up and bellows a scream of rage as he lays into the shrubbery. As the flail nears the creature, blue tendrils of electricity snap at the air. ============ Move to R17 Free Action: RAGE! Power attack hits AC23, 21 normal damage + 1 electricity damage Header reflects post-rage stats
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 45/45 AC: 19; Melee +6;Perc+10;Heal+9 d20+6=26 ; d20+6=18 ; d6+1=4 ; Wednesday December 19th, 2018 10:08:33 AM
Bartomus continued to move forward loading another bullet in his sling and watching for an opening to let the bullet fly. When he got closer, he saw his chance and whipped the sling sending the bullet in streak towards the plant creature. ------- Move to V12; Attack Crit w 26; but not confirmed, 4 points damage
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 73/88 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 19 CMD: 22 d20+13=17 ; d20+8=25 ; d8+11=12 ; d8+11=14 ; d6=2 ; d6=5 ; Wednesday December 19th, 2018 11:29:05 AM "OOF", Zanderallen's breath comes out in a whoop as the large tendril slams into his side, "Hey I just hammered out a dent there you great vegetable mass. Taking a step forward to get in reach he swings his mighty blade. -------------- 5 ft step to U17 flanking with Sid and Stock (+2 attack) 1st Attack - 17 to hit, 12 damage plus 2 fire 2nd Attack - 25 to hit, 14 damage plus 5 fire
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+8=17 ; Wednesday December 19th, 2018 4:01:13 PM
Dorbin watches the others lay into the small plant. He doesn't think he can help out with so many shields bashing the thing, so he stays near the larger tree and keeps watch for anything else (perception: 17).
Micah (John) HP: 35/52 AC: 24/12/24) CMD:18 Wednesday December 19th, 2018 5:19:07 PM
Micah grimaces in pain when he takes a second blow, then cries out in anger as the creature lashes into Zanderallen.
With a shout of defiance, he calls forth healing.
======= No longer total defense. Stat block adjusted. Selective Channel energy for 18 points (thank you Woldian house rule), excluding the angry plant thing. 6 uses remaining
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 36/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+8=24 ; Wednesday December 19th, 2018 8:08:27 PM
Stohp really isn't sure what to do against a big tree. Her melee attacks are feeble, she has no idea how to grapple it, and she doubts it would be much affected by a Thunderstone. She tries a tanglefoot bag hitting touch AC 22 (advancing to be within 20 feet).
DM MikeK - Plant attack - round 3 d20+17=28 ; 2d6+8=14 ; d20+6=20 ; d20+15=24 ; d20+15=34 ; 2d6+8=19 ; Wednesday December 19th, 2018 8:51:28 PM
Sid swings past the creature to set up a flank attack. In doing so, he moves through several threatened squares, drawing an Attack of Opportunity from the creature. I It slams the rogue as he darts past. Sid takes 14 hp damage.
Sid does manage to get a good whack in, though not as good as he’s like. No crit. Plant not subject to Sneak Attack.
Dirk fires a bolt, but misses.
Stock rounds the plant, and whacks at it with his axe. But, the shubbery is surprisingly strong, and he can’t dent it.
Bartomus fires a bullet from his sling, and cracks a branch.
Zanderallen steps in front of Micah, and takes two great swings, one of which connects solidly. The paladin notices a sizzling sound as the flame interacts with the vegetation, and the creatures seems unaffected.
Dorbin continues to watch for others. He still doesn’t see any.
Micah channels some healing Everyone healed for 18 hp.
Stohp advances on the hulking mass of vegetation, and throws a tanglefoot bag at it. The bag hits solidly, bursts, and spews sticky gunk all over the creature. It slows down noticeably.
--
The creature attacks Zanderallen with two massive arms, hitting once. Zanderallen takes 19 hp damage.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 39/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+10=13 ; Wednesday December 19th, 2018 10:13:20 PM
SId futilely swipes at it, "Either it speaks something I don't know or it doesn't know what speech is... or it's just angry. Thanks Micah!"
Dirk Devlin (Joe) HP: 59/59 AC: 20/14/17 CMB: 5 CMD: 17 Thursday December 20th, 2018 7:43:05 AM
Dirk drops his crossbow and mumbles a few words, casting Flare at the creature.
--------------------------------- Dirk casts Flare This cantrip creates a burst of light. If you cause the light to burst in front of a single creature, that creature is dazzled for 1 minute unless it makes a successful Fortitude save.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 45/45 AC: 19; Melee +6;Perc+10;Heal+9 d20+6=13 ; Thursday December 20th, 2018 9:27:45 AM
Bartomus realized that his sling was not helping and as he moved towards the creature, he tucked it away. He raised his glave and took a swing at the unfriendly bush. His momentum caused his swing to be off and the glave missed.
----- [i] Move to T15; Glave attack 13 missed
Micah (John) HP: 35/52 AC: 24/12/24) CMD:18 d20+15=32 ; Thursday December 20th, 2018 9:34:21 AM
Micah chides himself for underestimating this threat. He carefully steps back out of what he perceives to be the reach of the creature and casts enlarge person on Stock, doing so with his guard up in case his judgement is incorrect.
He then says, "Hold on Zanderallen. You are next."
=================. Enlarge Person on Stock. Duration: 70 rounds Cast Defensively 32 beats DC 17
Stock (JonM) HP: 104/104; AC20/FF19/T11; DR 1/-; CMD: 28; Rage:20/22 d20+12=17 ; d20+7=25 ; 2d8+20=29 ; d6=5 ; Thursday December 20th, 2018 9:45:01 AM Status Effects: Rage, Enlarged Stock feels himself growing and somewhere inside of his rage he smiles. Back to the task at hand, he lets out a loud grunt, raises his flail now crackling with energy above his head and lays into the abominable vegetation.
While the first blow seems to bounce harmlessly off the thing's hide, the backswing lands solidly. ================= PA miss AC 19 (forgot flanking) PA Hit AC 27 (forgot flanking), 29 damage + 5 electricity damage
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+5=11 ; Thursday December 20th, 2018 11:14:00 AM
Dorbin moves to the side to get a better look at the plant that seems to be kicking everyone's rear. He underhand lobs a small blob of acid in the general direction of the plant, but it lands on the ground near Micah's feet with a dying sizzle.
OOC: Ranged attack with acid dart: 11
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 72/88 AC: 23 T: 13 FF: 19 CMD: 22 d20+13=19 ; Thursday December 20th, 2018 6:59:08 PM
His arms vibrating from the blow he landed Zanderallen stares at disbelief at the lack of damage to the creature. "All right Micah, this thing is going to take some chopping." Taking a moment to undo the straps Zanderallen drops his shield to the ground and adjusts his grip to accommodate two hands on his long sword. He fails to get within proper striking distance and his swing bounces off hardened bark. --------------------------------- Move Action undo and drop Shield(AC Updated) Standard Attack (power attacking as always) 19 misses
DM MikeK - Plant attack - round 4 d20+11=15 ; d20+14=26 ; 2d6+8=11 ; d20+14=18 ; d20+14=15 ; Thursday December 20th, 2018 8:48:58 PM DM addendum - I should have been more clear. Zanderallen’s attack in the previous round did damage it. But, the fire damage was resisted
Sid misses.
Dirk casts Flare in front of the creature. Its hard to tell if anything happens. OOC - Please let me know what the DC is in the future.
Bartomus pulls his glaive as he moves all the way up to the hulking plant. It strikes him as he closes. AoO attack hits Bartomus for 11 hp damage.
Micah biggens Stock.
An enlarged, enraged Stock lets loose. One blow sends plant material flying, although astute observers will note it actually likes the electrical charge. D4 con
Dorbin misses with a blob of acid.
Zanderallen also misses.
--
The creature turns to Stock, and attacks. But misses both times
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 36/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) d20+9=22 ; Thursday December 20th, 2018 10:24:08 PM
Deciding standing back and dithering isn't really helping anything at all Stohp steps up and swings at it. She fails to do any damage, which was about what she expected.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 39/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+10=13 ; Thursday December 20th, 2018 11:03:50 PM
Swing!... and a miss. Sid harries the the thing yelling at it in sylvan and elvish, "You know we wouldn't be here if you didn't want us. If you can understand me raise me raise your hands in the air. We will talk."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/45 AC: 19; Melee +6;Perc+10;Heal+9 d20+6=21 ; Friday December 21st, 2018 9:51:53 AM
He had moved in too close, and the creature saw him do it. As Bartomus' glave went wide, the creature's twigged, viney branch smashed out against his shoulder. He felt the hit and it hurt. At the same time, a giant of a Stock pummeled the creature. Bartomus swung his glave again, but the pain in his shoulder got in his way. His mind raced for a something that might help, some trick or spell that might benefit the cause. === Attack 21 - miss
Stock (JonM) HP: 104/104; AC20/FF19/T11; DR 1/-; CMD: 28; Rage:19/22 d20+14=28 ; d20+9=22 ; 2d8+20=24 ; d6=2 ; Friday December 21st, 2018 10:16:46 AM Status Effects: Rage, Enlarged Stock ducks and dodges and then LAUGHS! "Keep trying! I'll turn you into a fashionable table! Here comes the smash!" He does not notice nor would he care that his newly electric flail is actually helping the creature.
Giant Stock gets his flail up again SMASHES his way through the creature sending leaves and branches flying. His backswing hits at too tight of an angle and is harmlessly deflected away. ======= Power Attack hits AC28, 24 damage + 2 electricity PA misses AC22 Happy Holidays, Lakeview!
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Friday December 21st, 2018 10:23:53 AM
Dorbin watches the others violently attack ... a bush. He tries to stifle a giggle as he sees the bush actually making progress. He idly wonders if they could defeat it simply by walking away...
Dirk Devlin (Joe) HP: 59/59 AC: 20/14/17 CMB: 5 CMD: 17 Friday December 21st, 2018 11:48:43 AM
Seeing no real damage, Dirk decides to go with another option. He unslings his lute from his shoulder and now begins to play a song to inspire his allies.
======= Dirk performs/casts inspire courage +2 +2 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects +2 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls.
Micah (John) HP: 35/52 AC: 24/12/24) CMD:18 Friday December 21st, 2018 4:54:24 PM
Micah momentarily enjoys Stocks enthusiasm then returns to business of dealing with this threat. Stepping out of the way first, he casts enlarge person on Zanderallen.
====== 5 ft step to W18
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 72/88 AC: 23 T: 13 FF: 19 CMD: 22 d20+15=20 ; d20+10=19 ; Friday December 21st, 2018 5:18:22 PM
Even inspired by Dirk's music, Zanderallen's attacks go wide as he increases in size. ----------------- Enlarged Attacks, 20 and 19 miss.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 36/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Friday December 21st, 2018 6:38:26 PM
Stohp pauses and wonders if her skill in wielding weapons dexterously extends to a flail.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 36/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Saturday December 22nd, 2018 12:01:36 AM
Stohp does something interesting so I can make a 5th post.
DM MikeK - end combat Saturday December 22nd, 2018 8:59:34 AM
The Shields continue to swing various weapons around the vicinity of the creature.
Stock ends the matter by smashing it to pieces.
As Dorbin has already noted, no other creatures are around.
A quick search within the leaves and branches will reveal a diamond ring, worth 5000 gp.
---------- Experience - Everyone earns 750 xp
Sid(Andrew) HP: 39/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Saturday December 22nd, 2018 3:11:07 PM
"Well, that certainly was a thing that happened."
Micah (John) HP: 49/52 AC: 24/12/24) CMD:18 d6=3 ; d6=3 ; d6=4 ; d6=4 ; Sunday December 23rd, 2018 10:12:43 PM
Micah shakes his head in dismay: first at the destruction of the creature, then at the valuable treasure it hides. He looks at the others, checking for injury, then calls forth healing magic.
=============== Channel energy 14 to all. 4 uses remaining
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 45/45 AC: 19; Melee +6;Perc+10;Heal+9 Monday December 24th, 2018 2:23:33 AM "Not sure that that was the welcoming I was expecting," Bartomus said when the bits of the creature went flying about and settled to the ground. He looked back at Micah as energy coursed through him and the bruising and hurt melted away.
DM MikeK - Onward! Sunday January 6th, 2019 5:00:22 PM OOC - Happy New Year! As a reminder, in the last post of last year, the group found a diamond ring worth 5000 gp and earned 750 xp
Having defeated the plant thingy, the Shields take a look around. Other than the ring, which is not magical, they find nothing. It is likely the plant creature removed any competition in this area, and after a couple hours, the Shields are confident nothing more is around that can threaten the beastfolk.
Accordingly, the group marks off the area as well as the shoreline so that Jaspar and his people can find there way.
Then the Shields turn their attention to the forest. Their directions are to follow the stream north for seven days, which proves easy enough to do. The woods haven’t been freed of the Crying Wood for that long, and animals are just now starting to penetrate this deeply from the former borders. The group spots birds and small mammals, and observe sign of the occasional deer or fox, but don’t run into anything dangerous.
Which gives the group plenty of time to considers their upcoming mission, about which they know, well, not much.
According to Jaspar, the Witches said to follow this stream until you find a large stone building, and then clear it of its former occupants. The group has guessed that ‘former occupants’ probably mean plants or undead, or undead plants. But, no one knows for sure.
Whatever it is, after six days of marching, the group is due to hit it tomorrow.
Dirk Devlin (Joe) HP: 59/59 AC: 20/14/17 CMB: 5 CMD: 17 d20+9=13 ; Sunday January 6th, 2019 5:06:08 PM
Dirk gathers up some wood to start a fire for the evening and stretches his tired legs. After almost a week of marching, he's ready for a rest. Dirk takes a look around, scouting the area as he gathers the wood.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 45/45 AC: 19; Melee +6;Perc+10;Heal+9 d20+10=19 ; Sunday January 6th, 2019 11:10:36 PM
Bartomus felt like the forest was starting to become familiar, what with their several days this trip, and their previous visits. It was different than their first visit, and that was a welcomed relief. He came to the place that was picked for their night's camp and let his pack fall from his back.
"Another night out amongst the stars, trees, and apparently bugs." He slapped at something that was buzzing about his ear and horn. He helped Dirk gather firewood, he being able to grab things that were large twigs to the Taur, but small logs to his human colleague. As he did so, he looked about in the woods edging the campsite.
--- Perception 19
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; Per: +13; Surv: +11; SM: +6 Monday January 7th, 2019 10:25:56 AM
Stock slows his pace at the new campsite and does a set of trunk twists to shake out the stiffness of the march. He bends his head to the side and sniffs.
Smells like you've been in the woods for a week.
He chuckles and shakes his head. Lowering his pack he calls out, "What's the plan tomorrow? Instead of barging in, you guys got any sneaky ideas we can follow? Maybe we send in Sid to sneak around a bit? Maybe Bart turns into a crow and flies around for a peek?"
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 88/88 AC: 23 T: 13 FF: 19 CMD: 22 Monday January 7th, 2019 12:50:02 PM
Zanderallen still is a little uncomfortable outside the Float. Something about the open sky above him is slightly unsettling after a lifetime on the Fence level. Thankfully the tree canopy overhead is fairly thick even if it still feels slightly ominous to Zander. Taking care of his assigned tasks in setting up camp he thinks to the morning, "I'm all for gathering some information before we barge in the front door. You haven't been in the city so long you've forgotten how to sneak in the woods have you Sid?" ----------- (OOC: Ring added to party loot)
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Monday January 7th, 2019 1:14:41 PM
Dorbin looks around as he travels and often takes out his notebook to write down notes about what they're seeing on their walk through the woods.
When Stock mentions plans, Dorbin says, "Seems like it would always be a good idea to scout a place out before we walk in if we have that option."
Micah shrugs off his pack and looks around at their campsite. Weary from their trek, he finds a convenient rock or stump to sit on before commenting, "Before we make any definite plans I believe tomorrow's endeavor could benefit from some divine guidance. If you will forgive me for not immediately helping with the camp, I will spend some time in prayer to determine how best to proceed. This will take a while, so please be patient."
Micah stretches his back and neck before quickly descending into a deep prayerful state. His prayers are initially a supplication for the divination spell.
After having the rituals for that spell firmly in mind, he commences its casting by lighting several sticks of costly incense. He then proceeds to carefully lay out bits of dried rare fruits while beginning a soft, continuous chant. He maintains his vocal invocation as he pours fine oil on the fruits, his voice periodically changing in pitch as he recites the mystic phrases to seek divine guidance. After about ten minutes of prayers and ritual offering, he clearly asks "What dangers should we be prepared to counter as we explore the stone building that is our objective and its immediate surroundings?"
He collapses in relief after he receives the answer. Taking a drink of water before doing so, he shares with the others what he has learned.
======= 15 minutes to prepare Divination in open spell slot. 10 minutes to cast the spell. Spell has 78 percent chance of receiving a correct divination. Succeed with a 7%. 25 gp in offerings subtracted from inventory
Dirk Devlin (Joe) HP: 59/59 AC: 20/14/17 CMB: 5 CMD: 17 Monday January 7th, 2019 6:28:56 PM
Dirk looks over at Micah and nods in agreement.
[b]"I would be happy to help explore that stone building and see what might be around and inside it."[b]
Sid(Andrew) HP: 39/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+12=29 ; d20+12=24 ; Monday January 7th, 2019 6:52:50 PM
Sid stretches and starts breaking out the cookware, using some of the meat they've found with some of the wild veg and bits of nuts and such from his rations, "Oh yeah, I'll be fine too. I've gotten sneakier if you can believe it." In dwarvish he says, "No one notices the greased door when it closes" and in Common, "Right?"
"I'll take last watch too," he offers.
=============================================
Perception: 29 (Please ignore the 2nd roll. Error due to lag.)
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 36/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Monday January 7th, 2019 7:59:34 PM
Stohp helps with the camp making as best she can, which means she's not much help. As they debate what to do Stohp puts her two cents in. "A solo scout would be best for stealth but if anything happens then they're most vulnerable. If we all go in together we might walk into a trap, but at least we'll all be there to assist if everything goes wrong."
Sid(Andrew) HP: 39/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Monday January 7th, 2019 9:22:19 PM
Sid smiles at Stohp, "Don't worry, I can run fast and scream loudly if I need to."
DM MikeK - Preparations Monday January 7th, 2019 9:44:13 PM
The Shields set up camp, and consider the next day.
Sid seems willing to go scout ahead on his own, but others have yet to comment on it.
Meanwhile, Micah prepares and casts a lengthy spell. The cleric hears a voice reply in his head - No building, but tomb Lord and retainers long dead, yet avoid Gargul's judgment 'Ware. An ancient golem stands watch
The night passes uneventfully, and dawn breaks with a promise of adventure.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 45/45 AC: 19; Melee +6;Perc+10;Heal+9 Monday January 7th, 2019 11:16:33 PM "We could always give him and escort Stohp," Bartomus said with a bit of a shrug. "I mean we could just hang out amongst the trees and such, let Sid wander into whatever it is we are going to find. If we hear a scream, then HERE COMES THE TAURS!."
He chuckled at the potential sight. As they talked, he eventually headed to his bedroll and called it a night. When the light of dawn caused him to stir, he rolled up his bed and tied it in place. He walked to the edge of the camp and began his morning reflections. His mind reached out to the forest, and the sounds of its animals. He fixed in his mind the motions and words for the flames, the lightening, and also for healing. He also kept getting an image of calling for help, but in a way that help came. When he was done, he joined the others.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 39/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+15=16 ; d20+15=19 ; d20+16=32 ; d20+21=31 ; Tuesday January 8th, 2019 5:44:18 AM
The next morning Sid makes breakfast, finishes the chapter he was reading in the early morning light, and stretches when everyone seems about ready. "Alright, well I guess make sure you stay behind me." He pulls out a piece of chalk, "Where is it,where, ah, ok, so I'll mark anything that is dangerous to step on if I find any traps. Yes, I will try and stop them, but don't temp fate if you don't have to do so right?"
Sid, fairly quietly walks down the trail and scans the ground as he approaches the tomb
Dirk Devlin (Joe) HP: 59/59 AC: 20/14/17 CMB: 5 CMD: 17 d20+9=12 ; d20+7=25 ; Tuesday January 8th, 2019 8:10:24 AM
Dirk follows behind Sid trying to be as quiet as he possibly can while keeping an eye out for anything out of the ordinary.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; Per: +13; Surv: +11; SM: +6 Tuesday January 8th, 2019 10:31:31 AM "A golem you say? Well I can't remember meeting one before. Do you think it's dangerous Micah? And a tomb on top of it."
A smile grows on the dwarf's face as he fingers the scar he has. "Could be fun!"
When Sid sets out sneaking ahead followed by Dirk, Stock takes a position far enough back that his clomping through the forest does not cause much of a distraction.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 88/88 AC: 23 T: 13 FF: 19 CMD: 22 Tuesday January 8th, 2019 11:16:38 AM
Zander watches, slightly awed, at Micah's preparations and prayers. When he shares his divine insight he reflects, "Those avoiding Gargul's judgement are almost certainly undead, but a golem is worrisome. Dorbin, as are arcane genius do you have any tips about golems?"
The next morning as they approach the tomb Zander chuckles as Sid's bravado and throws a jibe his way, "So step where the chalk is and if we hear screaming make sure and hide, got it."'Brief pause and a large grin'"Don't worry Sid, we've got your back."
As they wait for Sid to approach Zander concentrates his divine sight towards the tomb. ------------------- Detecting Evil 6o foot cone, Zander will maintain concentration sweeping in front of the group until something happens
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] d20+16=30 ; d20+16=17 ; d20+11=28 ; Tuesday January 8th, 2019 12:33:10 PM
Dorbin thinks for a moment, then shares his knowledge about strengths and weaknesses of golems (Knowledge, Arcana: 30). He tries to think of anyone who might have created a golem in this area in the past (knowledge, local: 17; knowledge, history: 28). He adjusts a few of his spells at night and waits with the others for Sid and Dirk to scout out the place.
Micah (John) HP: 49/52 AC: 24/12/24) CMD:18 Tuesday January 8th, 2019 12:53:20 PM
Armed with the knowledge from the divination, Micah prayers for spells accordingly the next morning.
Before the scouts depart, he casts "hide from undead" using is metamagic rod of extend. He explains, This spell makes all of us invisible to undead creatures. Understand, however, that intelligent undead may see through the enchantment. With the benefit of this rod, this spell should last about two and a half hours. Also, any hostile act against the an undead creature will end the effects for all of us. So wait until the time is right before attacking."
To Zanderallen he says, "I understand how your gifts work. Here, take my magical mace. It may prove handy against our expected foes and do not worry. I have my favorite warhammer to use should I need to enter the fray.
[b]"When we are ready to all go in, I have more spells to cast.
He then watches expectantly as the scouts head into danger.
======== Extended Hide Undead Duration: 160 minutes. Affects all party members, including Emily.
To see spell description Highlight to display spoiler: {Undead cannot see, hear, or smell creatures warded by this spell. Even extraordinary or supernatural sensory capabilities, such as blindsense, blindsight, scent, and tremorsense, cannot detect or locate warded creatures. Non-intelligent undead creatures (such as skeletons or zombies) are automatically affected and act as though the warded creatures are not there. An intelligent undead creature gets a single Will saving throw. If it fails, the subject can’t see any of the warded creatures. If it has reason to believe unseen opponents are present, however, it can attempt to find or strike them. If a warded creature attempts to channel positive energy, turn or command undead, touches an undead creature, or attacks any creature (even with a spell), the spell ends for all recipients.}
Hands Zanderallen +1 mace.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 36/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Tuesday January 8th, 2019 9:04:34 PM
Stohp is a bit confused as to how a tomb could make a good home for the Ratfolk but at least this confirms her guess about undead. She gets ready to go.
DM MikeK - The Glade Tuesday January 8th, 2019 9:47:40 PM
In the morning, Micah casts a Hide From Undead spell on everyone, and hands Zanderallen his magical mace.
Dorbin bends his mind to the task of remembering anything about golems. They are constructs, usually made by highly powerful magicians. They can be primarily constructed out of just about anything, but all share some standard traits. As constructs, they’re not alive, and have no vital spots or nervous systems or the like. Which means sneak attacks, poison, sleep, fatigue, disease and similar type attacks don’t work.
As for who might have created it, well, someone who was here before the Crying Woods.
Sid sets off with chalk at the ready.
Dirk keeps pace behind him, and the rest of the group follow at a distance.
Sid finds no traps. Whether he marks something anyway is completely up to him.
The forest falls away before him. Much like the farm from which the team rescued Briadoc, a large open area has been established in the heart of the woods.
However, while the farm contained obvious signs of plant removal and forestry, this glade is immaculate.
There are no weeds, no scrub grass, no bushes - just a perfectly cut, fairway like lawn in a circle several hundred yards in diameter. There isn’t even a leaf on it. The ground is flat - perfectly level - without a cut or rut or mole hill or chipmunk hole or anything breaking the sward.
Some 150’ from the woodline, a series of ancient oak trees, symmetrical in every way, and evenly spaced from one another so that the branches of their canopy just barely intersect, trace the circumference of a large inner circle.
Along that line of trees, the ground drops away slightly, evenly, perfectly, to form a low, circular depression.
Centered within the tree lined depression, at the heart of this glade, is a ziggarut composed of black stone. It consists of five square levels (think a five level mayan temple). The walls of each level are at least 10’ high. There are no obvious stairs.
To Sid’s left, a road composed of pavers of the same black rock starts at the edge of the depression and leads, in a perfectly straight line, down to the ziggarut.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 36/49 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +10 (12 Grapple, 12 Trip, 14 Disarm) CMD: 20 (+2 vs grapple, disarm) Wednesday January 9th, 2019 7:53:17 AM
Stohp is instantly suspicious and throws some sticks and stones into the clearing before they advance into it. There's no way it would stay that clean without something picking up leaves or repelling intruders.
Stock (JonM) HP: 88/88; AC: 24/21/15; Per: +13; Surv: +11; SM: +6 d20+13=32 ; Wednesday January 9th, 2019 9:29:02 AM "Maybe the golem is the greenskeeper? Whoever it is, is doing a fine job."
Stock clicks his tongue and then follows the others forward eyes slowly panning.
"So. We're here. Our goal is to clear this place out, right?"
================== Perception 32
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 88/88 AC: 23 T: 13 FF: 19 CMD: 22 Wednesday January 9th, 2019 10:07:58 AM
Zanderallen takes the mace from Micah, "If you say so, this weapon should be a sufficient focus for Domi's spirit to grant some mighty undead destruction. I will put it to good use." Zander shifts some things around on his belt to hang the mace in an easily reachable spot.
As they reach the edge of the clearing he stops and let's out a gasp as the hair on the back of his neck stands up. "I guess this is the place. Anybody else getting the feeling that someone or something is going to be really unhappy if we go inside?"
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 45/45 AC: 19; Melee +6;Perc+10;Heal+9 d20+10=21 ; Wednesday January 9th, 2019 10:17:31 AM "Kinda feel that we need to use that path, I mean if they are going to be unhappy, they are really going to be unhappy if we mess with all of this." Bartomus said as he took in the near perfect glade with the black stone building in the center. He looked about the clearing and pointed to where the dark pavers were located.
"Not sure I like the front door approach, but if someone is keeping this place this neat, I think we should try not upset that person right at the get go."
----- [i]Perception 21 as they come to the clearing
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:48/48 CMD:15] Wednesday January 9th, 2019 1:42:02 PM
Dorbin stands in the middle-rear of the group and nervously says, "Yes, we should stay on the path."
Micah (John) HP: 49/52 AC: 24/12/24) CMD:18 Wednesday January 9th, 2019 2:25:30 PM "Well. That's not what I expected,' murmurs Micah.
He then casts detect magic and takes another look at the scene.
If nothing is revealed, he agrees to go forward, using the path.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 39/42; AC: 18/15/14; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+15=22 ; d20+16=19 ; d20+21=24 ; Wednesday January 9th, 2019 6:24:15 PM
Sid continues ahead, quietly inspecting the area before him, again, ready to disable any traps he finds and mark their placement as a warning to the others.
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