DM Kathy Monday February 4th, 2019 10:43:29 PM
Experienced adventurers that you are, you quickly sort yourselves into a marching order. Jozhur scouts, taking advantage of his ability to disappear in the dim light. Fang and Bralin follow, protecting the casters. Terser and Leafy have rear guard.
You hear plenty of odd noises and rustlings in the bushes as you move along, but you don't encounter anything larger than a rabbit. After several hours' march, you decide to make camp. Your sleep is undisturbed.
At some point the next day, you realize that you have made your way onto an ancient road. It is broken and overgrown, but the lines of it are visible even now. A short time later, you pass a milestone; you can still make out AE SKIEM carved into the rock. You are heading the right way.
By the end of that day's travel you can see the walls of the city in the far distance. It is time to rest now, but you can reach the walls of the city tomorrow.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+20Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Tuesday February 5th, 2019 12:00:49 AM
As the group sets up camp that first night Tahni takes a moment to recast her Roses Temperature Control spell. "It lasts for 24hrs" she explains "When it expires we'll know it is time to rest again. Just in case we have difficulty keeping track of time"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 6/6) Tuesday February 5th, 2019 12:19:04 PM
Terser does some more practice being quiet, as if he's saving his voice for something fun and new.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 158/158 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Tuesday February 5th, 2019 5:20:29 PM
Jozhur sleeps as best he can. He is always restless knowing there is to be an action filled day ahead.
ooc: updated again, magic belt
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP126/126 - AC29/23/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+8=25 ; Tuesday February 5th, 2019 5:54:20 PM
(need to update sheet to lvl 16 - hopefully tomorrow... )
Leafy does not need to rest nor sleep so he'll stand guard (perception 25 - Leafy has Scent and Blindsense 30ft)
Hours are passing by but it appears as though they are heading the right way...
"This place gives me the creeps... " Aex quietly says... not sure why she's whispering...
The little greenmage keeps her eyes on the fauna and flora. Does she spot any animals? What kind of animals? What's the plants like? Vines? Flowers? Trees perhaps? How's the terrain? Flat? Hills 'n valleys?
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday February 5th, 2019 6:42:05 PM
Fang determines with the others the watch order then quickly falls asleep.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T16 / FF32) CMD 38 - HP 191/191) Tuesday February 5th, 2019 7:02:47 PM
Bralin settles down for the night, but not before approaching Fang.
"You need not worry about stealth," he comments, hoping to allay the beastfolk's concern. "Jozhur scouts. You and I are meant to be seen, draw the attention of any potential foe, and react accordingly should they prove hostile."
The dwarf nods at his waraxe.
"Hitting things with an axe while shouting," he notes, "is an apt job description."
Rill (MarkB) HP 138/138 - AC 27/17/35 CMD 25 Tuesday February 5th, 2019 10:26:39 PM
Rill nods at Bralin's words.
"And it's my job to try to keep you alive through the process."
Rill will take a watch and rest with the others.
DM Kathy Tuesday February 5th, 2019 10:45:22 PM
[Before I forget again, everyone take 40,000 XP for the previous scene.]
As you travel, you make final adjustments to make sure you're ready for Fae Skiemir. Tahni comes up with an ingenious way to track the time. Jozhur tries to rest. Bralin and Rill remind Fang that in a team, not everybody has to be good at everything. You're all ready to support one another.
Aexana keeps an eye out for unusual flora and fauna, and she is not disappointed. You see typical flowers and plants: ferns, laurels, daisies, fireweed, sorrel, thistles. But you also see glow poppies, chiming bellflowers, fairy phlox, and other plants that you don't even know the names of. As for animals, you see a couple of rabbits, a few ground squirrels, and any number of common birds. But you think you also hear the call of a fae lark, though of course you can't be sure because it doesn't show itself.
And then, as you approach the city, all of you see a large bird flying toward you. As it gets closer, you see that it is a raven, larger than any raven you've ever seen. Well, except that one time. Most of you aren't even surprised, then, when the raven comes in to land and transforms itself into a handsome knight wearing armor patterned like feathers. It is Lord Florian, a vilderavn whom most of you have met before while on the quest to rid the Wold of bloodweed. And now he is here.
"Well, hello again," he says, seeming as surprised as you. "Dare I ask what brings you to Fae Skiemir?"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+20Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Wednesday February 6th, 2019 1:41:26 AM
Tahni takes a slight step to the side to allow Aex, Leafy or Terser to get a little closer to the man. "Hey... it's Florian. Come to take up my offer of a trade for your falchion?"
"You can dare ask what we're doing here. It doesn't mean we dare answer" she grins. Tahni is only trying a little friendly banter. Nothing she considers to be antagonistic.
"Since you did ask though, it is well known that all manner of riches can be found in Fae Skiemir for those brave enough - or foolish enough - to try and claim them. I suppose we are a bit of both." Technically everything Tahni has said is completely true "Curious that we should cross paths again. What is it you are doing here? How did you even get to this land?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 138/138 - AC 27/17/35 CMD 25 d20+33=36 Wednesday February 6th, 2019 11:20:26 AM
Rill recalls that when last we met, he discerned that Florian's alignment was Neutral Evil, that he was a malicious deceiver, and that he typically likes to ingratiate himself with powerful people with the intent of manipulating them. Not the top of Rill's list of people to trust. But still, he may prove useful somehow.
The cleric will incline his head as he greets this visitor.
"Greetings again Lord Florian. We have business in the city. How may we help you?"
As Florian answers, Rill pays close attention to his words. (Sense Motive 36)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 6/6) Wednesday February 6th, 2019 3:52:22 PM
Terser approaches to be even with Tahni, casually leaning his elbow on her shoulder.
Little sis here is right. We like treasure, and we like a challenge. And not too much back on the seas gives us a challenge these days.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 158/158 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp d20+21=31 ; d20+25=43 ; Wednesday February 6th, 2019 5:57:01 PM
Jozhur does not trust this fellow. Not one bit. He watches silently for now, his question has already been asked, and much more politely than he would have phrased it. He tries to gauge the truth of whatever Florian says in response, but Jozhur is also aware Florian could have friends lurking nearby.
------------------------- Sense motive: 31 Perception: 43
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T16 / FF32) CMD 38 - HP 191/191) Wednesday February 6th, 2019 6:02:13 PM
Bralin nods his head in greeting, but otherwise says nothing.
Aex knew she could have followed him during their first encounter.. if he flies away this time she won't just let go.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday February 6th, 2019 8:20:25 PM
Fang has no idea who this guy is or if he's friend, foe, or neutral party. She waits patiently for the conversation to develop to the point where she she is better able to judge.
DM Kathy d20+30=38 ; Wednesday February 6th, 2019 11:19:19 PM
Apart from Fang, who has no idea who this person is, you react warily to Lord Florian's greetings.
Tahni smoothly returns his greeting and asks why he is here. Rill asks a similar question.
Well, I thought I would try my luck in this famed city. I have met with some minor setbacks, as one does. Nevertheless, I have gleaned a trove of information, which I would happily share with any who could assist me." He smiles. "You turned me down once, but perhaps you are having second thoughts about that?"
Rill and Jozhur try to assess his motives, but he is just too hard to read. It's impossible to tell what he's up to. He might even be on the up-and-up. Stranger things have happened. Probably. You can't think of any, but probably.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+20Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+27=33 ; d20+30=39 ; Thursday February 7th, 2019 2:25:36 AM
Tahni cocks an eyebrow and looks to Terser "Little sis?" She can't help but grin "I like it"
She looks back to Florian "I guess that depends. What minor setbacks have you had, and what sort of information are we talking?" Tahni isn't ready to vote one way or the other just yet, although finding out what his setbacks were might be useful information. It might give some insight into what lies ahead.
"Oh, where are my manners. Florian, this is Fang. Fang, we met Florian not so long ago in the Sargrass Plains. It was a .. brief meeting"
Perception: 33. With her Arcane Sight Tahni looks to see what auras he has around him, whether he has any spellcasting or spell-like abilities, whether they are arcane or divine, and the strength of the most powerful spell or spell-like ability he currently has available for use. Spellcraft check: 39. Tahni has +30 on her Spellcraft checks should he have multiple auras
Highlight to display spoiler: {Arcane Sight: You know the location and power of all magical auras within your sight. An aura's power depends on a spell's functioning level or an item's caster level, as noted in the description of the detect magic spell. If the items or creatures bearing the auras are in line of sight, you can make Spellcraft skill checks to determine the school of magic involved in each. (Make one check per aura; DC 15 + spell level, or 15 + half caster level for a nonspell effect.)
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.}
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 6/6) Thursday February 7th, 2019 2:32:42 PM
Terser continues the banter as Tahni gives Florian a thorough assessment. Perhaps he'll be distracted from her close scrutiny.
Some of us are lucky enough to get to choose our family. I'm lucky enough to count you as part of mine. And I've got a couple of years and a couple of inches on you, so it works both ways!
He just hopes that Bralin doesn't notice that he can say the same thing of Terser! Though Bralin has surely been a better older "brother" than some of the blood relations Terser does have.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T16 / FF32) CMD 38 - HP 191/191) Thursday February 7th, 2019 6:41:32 PM
Bralin catches Terser's eye, and lets slip a half grin. Otherwise, he waits.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP126/126 - AC29/23/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday February 7th, 2019 6:56:48 PM
Aexana stays in the back. Leafy stands beside her. She does not like this Florian guy. Didn't they detect an evil aura around him last time when they met him. But then again he didn't do them any wrong... Could he be the most unlikely of all allies in this bizarre place?
In any case, the little greenmage remains vigilant. One hand in her pockets is fidgeting the numerous potions she has on stock in her Bill's Pants of Plenty. Ready to grab whatever potions she may need first.
Rill (MarkB) HP 138/138 - AC 27/17/35 CMD 25 Thursday February 7th, 2019 7:08:32 PM "My Lord Florian, our divinations when last we met suggested to me that our paths and our goals were ... divergent. But circumstances change and we are in a different place now.
"You have approached us with the promise of information and a request for assistance. Please speak plainly sir - what is this information and what is your request for assistance. And more importantly, why should we trust you?"
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday February 7th, 2019 7:21:31 PM
Fang nods cordially as she is introduced. She continues to let the others talk; this doesn't seem like a problem that requires healing or killing.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 158/158 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Thursday February 7th, 2019 7:27:09 PM
Jozhur scrunches his face as he looks at Florian, "Well...what sort of help are you wanting?
The rogue is not adverse to partnering up with less than savory people, he had done plenty enough of it in his youth. But, Jozhur also knows to be very choosy about who and when.
DM Kathy Thursday February 7th, 2019 11:30:49 PM Tahni introduces Florian to Fang, who continues to watch and assess. Tahni also uses her Arcane Sight to find out more about Florian. She learns that he has spell-like abilities, and that the highest spell-like ability he has available is 7th level. His weapon and armor are both magic.
Terser banters a bit while Bralin and Aexana watch and wait.
Rill asks what information Florian has and what assistance he needs, questions echoed by Tahni and Jozhur. "I have been able to do some limited scouting of the city," he replies. "I know the layout of the streets. More importantly, I have information about a couple of places in the city where treasure still waits, unclaimed, for adventurers brave enough to retrieve it.
"However, I have had difficulty entering the city itself," he continues. "I have tried several times to fly in as a raven, but the barrier, the Mythal, has stopped me. I need to find a way to defeat the Mythal--or, failing that, a way through the walls.
"There you have it," he concludes. "If you can help me get into the city, and assist me in claiming these treasures, I will split them with you. As to why you should trust me," he smiles. "You said it yourself, our interests in this align. That being the case, shouldn't our efforts align as well?"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+20Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Friday February 8th, 2019 6:21:28 AM "Hmm" Tahni puts her thumb to her chin in contemplation.
Maab had told the party the way in. You can't fly. You must walk. That is where he is making a mistake.
She doesn't trust Florian. Chances are he'd turn on the party the moment it became convenient for him. Would he work it out? How long until he worked it out? How much is knowing the layout of the city worth? Is he who Maab meant to find as an ally? So many questions.
Tahni looks to the others. Her face is quite stern. Right now, she's not in favor.
Rill (MarkB) HP 138/138 - AC 27/17/35 CMD 25 d100=84 ; Friday February 8th, 2019 3:29:44 PM "Well, we may know a way in. What do you know of the inhabitants and what we may find as we approach and enter the city? As for our interests aligning, perhaps I should consult a higher power."
Rill will cast an Augury to determine if travelling with Florian into Fae Skiemir will be good or bad for us.
(86% chance of success - Rolled 84 - close one.)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 6/6) Friday February 8th, 2019 5:08:59 PM
Terser thinks back to the most recent things he's learned from the League of Adventurers.
Speaking of aligning, maybe it's something about your nature that the city's wards don't like. We could help you change it, if you like.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 158/158 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Friday February 8th, 2019 6:57:54 PM
Jozhur watches on and looks around, thumbing at the hilts of his swords. He is willing to follow Rill's lead on this and gives Terser a subtle, knowing look when he speaks up.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Friday February 8th, 2019 7:49:20 PM
Fang waits patiently for negotiations to finish. She'd prefer to just straightforwardly explain their goal, form an alliance, and ax the guy if he tries to break the deal, but figures the party knows better how to deal with tricky fey. (he is fey right?)
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T16 / FF32) CMD 38 - HP 191/191) Saturday February 9th, 2019 9:27:05 AM
At some point, Rill is going to cast a ..... ah, there it is.
Bralin waits, still as stone.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP126/126 - AC29/23/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Sunday February 10th, 2019 5:53:49 PM
Florian has a point that their interest align. Again even though they felt he was evil he never actually did anything right? When things were about to go dire he just flew away...
"Let's assume Master Florian speaks true... after all there's no reason to believe nor disbelieve what he is saying. At this point our interests do align. Let's not waste any more words on it... let's go on our way together but Master Florian please do know that the moment we feel you are betraying us you'd wish we never met. Yet I'm assuming that will go both ways now won't it... '
DM Kathy Sunday February 10th, 2019 10:32:42 PM Tahni remains skeptical of Lord Florian. Bralin, Fang, and Jozhur are content to watch hand wait. [Yes, he is fae.]
Terser speculates that the trouble might be alignment, and volunteers to help change it. "That sounds painful," Lord Florian replies with a smile.
Rill casts his Augury. His answer is weal and woe, which probably doesn't come as a surprise.
Aexana expresses a willingness to ally with Lord Florian--with a warning about what will happen if he betrays you. "I assure you, Lady Gnome," he replies, "I have no intention of betraying anyone. I am an honorable man." He looks to the rest of you. "Does she speak for all of you?" he asks. "Do we have an alliance?"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+20Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Monday February 11th, 2019 1:20:17 AM Assuming Rill shares the answer from his augury...
"Very well. We work together. BUT.. we split the treasure evenly. Everyone receives a one-eighth share"
Of course the party won't be splitting up or sharing the item they came to retrieve. Florian does not need to know what the party are specifically here for.
Rill (MarkB) HP 138/138 - AC 30/17/28 - CMD 25 Monday February 11th, 2019 1:18:12 PM
Rill will share the result of his Augury.
He smiles as he reaches out to shake the birdman's had. "It seems, my Lord Florian, that travelling with you may be both a blessing and a curse. But such is life, eh? Let us proceed then, my avian ally, and make the best of this alliance. I think I can speak for all of us when I say that if you treat us fairly, that we will do the same."
Rill has confidence in Black Lions, both in their integrity and their ability to deliver swift justice. He casts Moment of Prescience and Magic Vestment.
At some point, he takes Jozhur aside and hands the rogue a small figurine of Gargul, making sure Lord Florian cannot overhear him. "Jozhur, this is a specially prepared item. If you break it, it will instantly transport me to you if we are on the same plane. You often scout ahead of us. Don't hesitate to use it if you need help, or if you need to pull me out a bad situation."
----------------------------------------- Spells & Abilities Highlight to display spoiler: {Spells Running: Status on all, Longstrider, Deathwatch, Tongues, Magic Vestment, Moment of Prescience
Spells/abilities available, * = cast/used: 0 (DC19): Create Water, Guidance, Detect Magic, Detect Posion 1 (DC20): True Strike (D), Bless, Command, Detect Evil, Greater Disrupt Undead, Protection from Evil, Shield of Faith 2 (DC21): See Invisible (D), Augury*, Delay Posion, Remove Paralysis, Resist Energy, Status, Spiritual Weapon 3 (DC22): Divination (D), Blindness/Deafness, Blindness/Deafness, Dispel Magic, Magic Vestment, Prayer, Searing Light 4 (DC23): Dimension Door (D), Air Walk, Discern Lies, Death Ward, Death Ward, Freedom of Movement, Summon Monster IV 5 (DC24): Dimension Door (D), Breath of Life, Dispel Evil, Flame Strike, Flame Strike, True Seeing, Wall of Stone 6 (DC25): Find the Path (D), Blade Barrier, Blade Barrier, Heal, Greater Dispel Magic 7 (DC26): Greater Teleport (D), Destruction, Destruction, Heightened Heal, Greater Restoration 8 (DC27): Moment of Prescience* (D), Holy Aura, Holy Aura, Summon Monster VIII
Abilities/Items Agile Feet (Su) 11/day - Dim. Hop (Sp) 160'/day - Greater Insight (Sp) 2/day - Channel Energy (Su) 7/day - Obscuring Mist (Item) 2/day - Deathwatch (Item) Continual 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 - MM Quicken (Item) - 3/day - Endure Elements (Item) Tongues (class)}
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 6/6) Monday February 11th, 2019 4:06:13 PM I haven't heard of the process being painful. But I suppose we don't have to try it unless you can't get in the city.
Terser secretly wonders if this is their first test. Should they be working with someone they know is evil? Still, better to know where one potential threat lies, rather than have it lie in ambush. And it's not like they can do anything to him unless he commits a crime. He'll be keeping his eye on Lord Florian.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 158/158 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Monday February 11th, 2019 5:35:37 PM
Jozhur nods in agreement with the decision to bring Florian along.
When Rill pulls him aside, he thanks him for the figurine and expressed some concern about scouting ahead with Florian present. He still thinks he should be out front, but he worries Florian may direct enemies to attack him.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T16 / FF32) CMD 38 - HP 191/191) Monday February 11th, 2019 6:02:47 PM
"Aye", Bralin agrees with adding Florian to the quest.
If he is concerned about the fey's loyalties, he does not show it.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP126/126 - AC29/23/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday February 11th, 2019 6:04:32 PM
It wasn't Aex's intention to speak for the group... she never does so she slightly blushes when Florian questions the group about her ability to speak for everyone. However she is glad in the end most seem to a consensus.
"An honorable man most likely... only time will unfold who is graced with your loyalty. My name is Aexana Lord. And this here is my trusted companion Leafy... "
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Monday February 11th, 2019 7:19:02 PM
Fang wonders why no one is telling the Fey of the specific artifact they're after. They don't want him trying to claim it as part of his loot and will have to tell him where they are going anyway if he's going to help them find it.
DM Kathy Monday February 11th, 2019 10:15:46 PM
Despite some reluctance, you agree to ally yourselves with Lord Florian. He seems pleased.
Rill takes Jozhur aside and gives him an item that will help him get back to the party in an emergency. Then you continue on your way.
About an hour later, you are approaching the walls of Fae Skiemir. They are tall, and imposing. No gate is visible. As you get closer, you can see places where some attempts have been made to breach the walls. They don't seem to have gone well.
There are presently two groups you can see, who appear to be trying to get through the walls and into the city. "They're still here, I see," Lord Florian says, somewhat contemptuously. He points to your left. "Those are Dark Elves, trying to tunnel into the city. They seek magic, mostly, though I am sure they wouldn't decline gold if they found it." He points to your right. "Those are Cloud Giants. They're trying to smash through the wall, and they're strong enough that they can probably do it. Eventually. If we hurry, we can make it into the city before any of them do. We mustn't let them get what is rightfully ours!"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+20Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Tuesday February 12th, 2019 5:27:32 AM "If either group see us they will no doubt try and follow us. It could open us up to getting attacked from the rear, or them even blocking our escape"
"Still, we need to get in somehow. We can't fly in. If the Cloud Giants have already weakened the wall we might be able to take them rather than resorting to a tunnel fight with some elves. After that we finish breaking in"
The dwarven blood in Tahni's veins says to take out the giants. It may not be a good idea but that's just how she feels.
"Unless you have seen a better way in, Florian?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 138/138 - AC 30/17/28 - CMD 25 Tuesday February 12th, 2019 3:34:04 PM "Huh. A wall. There was no mention of a wall when Maab told us we could walk right in, just the Mythal. That was kind of an important detail for Mother Nature to have left out."
Rill will cast a Detect Magic to see if there is anything magic about this wall, and will try to determine the kind of magics involved.
And then, as an act of faith, he will simply attempt to walk through the wall. Assuming that does not work, he turns to Florian.
"My Lord Florian, forgive me for asking the obvious, but when you sought entrance while flying, did you see any gates or doors in this wall?"
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP130/130 - AC25/19/21 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP97/97 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday February 12th, 2019 5:51:03 PM
(char sheet finally updated to lvl 16)
Seems they are walking straight towards the wall without any cover. Aex would have made it a little foggy perhaps. But does it ever gets foggy around here ?!?
Aexana wonders if Rill's act of faith will work... if there's no gate then indeed perhaps it needs something like that... or a desire to get in. Why not talk to the walls?! Not having a clue of her own Aex is forced to see if her friends come up with something clever...
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 6/6) Tuesday February 12th, 2019 6:15:28 PM
Terser doesn't want to assume that either group is automatically their enemies, but he also doesn't wish to place the group in the middle of two potential groups of hostiles.
Some giants are his natural enemies, but he doesn't have any specific beef with Cloud Giants.
I think we should approach the Giants, assess their intentions, and perhaps help them with the wall and enter together. Unless they decide to attack us. But I prefer approaching rather than waiting for them to notice us here.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T16 / FF32) CMD 38 - HP 191/191) d20+13=29 ; d20+14=24 ; d20+9=20 ; Tuesday February 12th, 2019 6:33:26 PM
Bralin regards the other two groups.
"Tis a large city," he notes. "And tis unlikely they seek what we seek. I agree it would beneficial to ally ourselves with the giants, if possible."
Regardless of the group's decision, the dwarf approaches the walls, pulls out his stoneworking tools and gives it an extremely thorough going over.
"Are the walls magical?" he asks Rill. "I have a Stone Shape spell that may prove useful otherwise."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday February 12th, 2019 7:29:17 PM
Fang eyes the wall, wondering if it can simply be climbed. Sure she's terrible at climbing, but if anyone has a spell or the skill to get up there and attach a rope then perhaps there's a simple, silent way to get in.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 158/158 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp d20+25=40 ; Tuesday February 12th, 2019 7:48:33 PM
Jozhur examines the wall closely, looking for anything unusual about it. He turns to Florian, "Did you happen to see anything that looked like a road leading right into the wall? Perhaps there would be a gate or secret door there."
If the others can confirm the wall is not magical, he will send his shadow into the wall to see how thick it is. He also offers his Rope of Climbing if the wall is 60' or less.
Perception: 40, 46 to detect traps
DM Kathy Tuesday February 12th, 2019 10:31:25 PM Aexana creates a light mist as you walk, which helps conceal you. The groups at the wall, however, seem intent on their own business.
Tahni reasons that having enemies at your back is not a good idea. She proposes attacking the Cloud Giants.
Fang wonders about climbing the wall.
Rill grumbles a bit at the lack of information--further proof, no doubt, of Gargul's superiority! He casts Detect Magic. You can vaguely "see" what must be the Mythal--a very powerful aura hanging over the entire city. There is another, very strong, aura associated with the city wall, but it's outside your experience. You aren't sure what it is.
Jozhur and Rill ask Lord Florian whether he saw a gate or a road while he was aloft. "Alas," he replies. "I wasn't really looking for a way in, because I believed I had already found one."
Terser and Bralin want to modify Tahni's suggestion: rather than fighting the giants, you could talk to them and see if you could work together.
"I wouldn't advise it," Lord Florian says with a sneer. "They are dull creatures. Surely we do not need them."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+20Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Wednesday February 13th, 2019 5:52:23 AM "With no other obvious approach, I think Terser has the right of it. Let's try and at least speak with the giants"
Tahni tries to get an idea as to how many cloud giants there are. A few might be easily handled. 10 to 20 might be a bit hard.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 6/6) Wednesday February 13th, 2019 6:02:19 PM So that's 3 for talking to the Giants, and 1 against. What say the rest of us?
Should the vote fall that way, Terser will head towards the Giants and see if they're amenable to teaming up. If Florian doesn't want to lower himself, he'll suggest that he go up and scout with the goal of finding a road or a gate in. That way he can still be useful, and we have a backup plan if we can't get through the wall.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Wednesday February 13th, 2019 7:00:28 PM
Fang shrugs. She really doesn't care.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP130/130 - AC25/19/21 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP97/97 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday February 13th, 2019 7:10:25 PM
Aex too is clueless on how to proceed and it seems talking to one of these groups will probably be the best option... she doesn't really like Giants though as well... they are quite large compared to her...
In any case, where ever the group decides to go Aex will follow... she'll activate her ring of invisibility and tag along.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 158/158 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp d20+8=26 ; Wednesday February 13th, 2019 9:52:45 PM
Jozhur scratches his head, "There has to be a trick to this." He sends his shadow up a short ways to look for a gate or road that seems to run through the wall.
"We can try talking to the giants. But I'm not sure brute force will work on whatever magic is within this wall."
Shadow's perception: 26
DM Kathy Wednesday February 13th, 2019 10:35:29 PM Tahni changes her mind and votes to speak with the giants. Fang and Aexana abstain. Jozhur is also willing to give it a try, but sends his shadow up to investigate possible entrances.
Terser decides to take the lead, asking Lord Florian to go scout as well.
Following Terser, then, you begin closing the distance to where the cloud giants are trying to get through the wall. As you approach, you begin to see that their efforts are kind of a disorganized mess. Substantial chunks have been taken out of the wall in a couple of places, but there doesn't seem to have been any follow-through. Meanwhile, several cloud giants are arguing while the others mill about, looking variously confused or bored.
One giant, seeing you approach, steps forward to meet you. "Hello!" he says in Common. "This is our spot; you'll have to find your own." He doesn't seem especially hostile, but he folds his arms across his chest and clearly expects you to leave.
Meanwhile, Jozhur's shadow returns to him to say that he wasn't able to spot a way in. Actually I'm not sure how the shadow communicates with Jozhur--or with anyone else, for that matter. I guess I like to think that it whispers in a dry, rasping husk of a voice that sounds like dead leaves blowing across a graveyard at midnight. But that's just me.
Rill (MarkB) HP 138/138 - AC 30/17/28 - CMD 25 Thursday February 14th, 2019 2:08:20 AM
Jozhur is our most diplomatic member. Rill will assist his conversation with the Giants (+2 to his Diplomacy Roll)
Rill (MarkB) HP 138/138 - AC 30/17/28 - CMD 25 Thursday February 14th, 2019 2:09:06 AM
(I'm out for a few days - Warren will be posting for me.)
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+20Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+2=14 ; Thursday February 14th, 2019 5:03:26 AM
Talking to giants isn't something Tahni sees as particularly fun. The best she can do is smile politely, offer a small wave and say "Hi!"
Whatever Jozhur has to say Tahni will nod along with
Aid other Diplomacy: 14 = Pass
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T16 / FF32) CMD 38 - HP 191/191) Thursday February 14th, 2019 2:05:21 PM
Bralin is somewhat annoyed that his investigations of the wall bore no fruit.
Prior to joining the group to talk with the giants, the dwarf makes an attempt with a spell. Highlight to display spoiler: { Cast Stone Shape in attempt to form tunnel through the wall 5' high by 5' wide by 11' deep }
If that doesn't work, he joins his comrades, all the while wondering how everybody else got in.
"Mayhap we should scout the perimeter ourselves?" he asks. "If a gate exists on the other side of the city, we would be fools indeed."
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 6/6) d20+4=9 ; Thursday February 14th, 2019 4:36:07 PM
Terser gives Bralin a moment to experiment with the stone of the wall, and wonders how many times he can do that. Should it fail, he'll pursue the conversation with the giants.
Hey there guys. We don't want to intrude on your spot, but thought maybe we could work together to get through, then go our separate ways. We certainly don't want those elves beating us in, right?
diplomacy 9
Terser hopes he can rely on Jozhur for some more persuading talky talk, because he's not so good at the diplomacy. He's better at intimidating people into doing what he likes. He's willing to do that here, but hopes they can be friendly first.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+6=25 ; Thursday February 14th, 2019 6:50:51 PM
Fang lets the others deal with negotiations and keeps her eyes open for any encroaching threats (25 perception).
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 158/158 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp d20+20=23 ; Thursday February 14th, 2019 9:46:50 PM
Jozhur looks at the giant, and to the others milling about. "We will leave if you like. But you all seem about as stumped as we are. What brings you here? Perhaps we could help each other through if we put our heads together."
DM Kathy Thursday February 14th, 2019 10:24:37 PM Bralin attempts to cast his spell at the wall. A tunnel briefly appears in the wall, but closes up almost immediately. He suggests that you walk around the city and look for a gate.
Terser attempts to talk to the giant, but his friendly suggestion is met with a frown.
Jozhur, with assistance from Rill and Tahni, does much better. "The gold is ours," the giant replies. "When we get through these walls, we will take the gold! We are strong; we are mighty! What do we need you for?"
Fang, looking around, sees no threats.
By now most of the giants have stopped their work and turned to look at you.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+20Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Friday February 15th, 2019 5:25:53 AM
Tahni isn't sure where to from here. Was a fight about to break out? Were diplomatic efforts going to continue? Were the party just going to walk away?
She gives a tug on the sleeves of her vestment not sure what how to play this.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 6/6) Friday February 15th, 2019 11:37:22 AM
At this point, Terser is inclined to show them up, rather than help them out. And there's no need to start a fight.
You may be right, strong and mighty friends. I wish you luck in your endeavors.
He goes along with Bralin's suggestion and begins scouting for a gate or a path that looks like it leads into the city.
Rill - Warren sub-posting) Friday February 15th, 2019 11:44:03 AM
Rill follows suit, looking for a way into the city that doesn't involve unnecessary conflict. He bows to the Giants, bids them good tidings in their native language, and moves on.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 158/158 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp d20+20=37 ; Friday February 15th, 2019 8:48:32 PM
Jozhur takes a look at the wall, curious whether the giants are actually making progress with brute force.
He looks back to the giant, open hands semi raised in front of him in a show of non hostility. "We're far more capable than we look. Just offering to help each other out, I'm sure we could come to a mutually beneficial agreement. Should you change your minds, seek us out."
Diplomacy: 37
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T16 / FF32) CMD 38 - HP 191/191) Sunday February 17th, 2019 4:41:09 PM
Bralin looks to Aexana.
"Mayhap you can scout faster from the air than we can from the ground."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP130/130 - AC25/19/21 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP97/97 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+21=26 ; Sunday February 17th, 2019 6:32:41 PM
Aex gulps as she sees all the cloud giants now starting at the group... was this part of the plan??
But she's saved by the bell as Bralin suggest she should try to scout from the air. "Good plan! she quickly says and turns into an air elemental.
AexAir veers into the sky and observes from her elevated position. Is there really no other way in?? (perception 26) Could there be any hidden doors perhaps?
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Sunday February 17th, 2019 8:09:11 PM
Fang watches and waits.
DM Kathy Sunday February 17th, 2019 9:31:15 PM Tahni and Fang aren't sure what to do next; they watch and wait.
Aexana isn't sure what to do either, but at Bralin's suggestion, she turns into an air elemental and flies aloft. She does not see any gates or doors through the wall. If there are hidden doors, they are very well hidden.
Terser and Rill are inclined to make polite goodbyes and leave.
Jozhur, however, is willing to give it one more shot. The giant tips his head to the side, considering. "We are strong," he repeats. "What do you have?"
Jozhur understands that the giant is asking, quite reasonably, what your group would bring to an alliance. The giants have strength. What do you have that they lack?
And looking around, you can see one thing. Organization. Strategy. Intelligence. The giants would probably be through the wall already if they were going about it at all systematically. But they seem to have started and abandoned several entrance attempts. And--is the damage healing itself? If it is, that's all the more reason to approach this thing with a little more focus.
Of course, you don't have to ally with them. You can walk away and try to find another way into the city, perhaps with Lord Florian's help.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+20Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision d20+23=36 ; Monday February 18th, 2019 6:38:50 AM "Could we have a moment?"
Tahni tries to get everyone in earshot away from the giants.
She looks to Florian "Since you haven't said anything or directed us anywhere I'm guessing you don't know a better way in yet"
Tahni is still thinking of ways these giants might be of use tactically.
"Suppose we were to help them get in. We could stay a couple of hundred feet behind them. Any trouble or traps would find them first. Might make things easier for us"
Tahni has a look back at the wall to get a better idea on how it might be knocked down.
Knowl Engineering: 36 - to try and find the best places to strike or focus on
Rill - Warren sub-posting) d20+32=43 ; Monday February 18th, 2019 10:00:58 AM
If Jozhur is able to organize these Giants into an effective wall breaking unit, Rill won't object. They still haven't been aggressive or threatening.
Still, he will continue to watch for any signs of reaching for weapons, ready to react at a moment's notice.
Sense motive: 43
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) d20+19=26 ; Monday February 18th, 2019 10:03:53 AM
Terser will work with Tahni to provide Jozhur the background info he needs to try to organize the Giants into a working group. He inspects the wall, focusing on weak points in the stone and how it's reacting to being broken.
Perception 26 with stonework bonus
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP130/130 - AC25/19/21 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP97/97 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday February 18th, 2019 3:53:39 PM
Having found nothing Aex returns to her friends.
"I could try a transmutation spell that would turn some of these rock walls to mud? Soften things up a little perhaps?"
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Monday February 18th, 2019 5:52:26 PM
Fang frowns at Tahni's idea. If we make an alliance then it should be on equal terms. I don't like the idea of using them as bait for every monster and trap. Perhaps it's best if we simply agree to help each other through then go our separate ways afterwards."
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 158/158 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp d20+20=29 ; d20+25=45 ; d20+21=27 ; Monday February 18th, 2019 6:24:34 PM
Jozhur agrees with Tahni, "Having a group of giants inside with us could be very useful, even if they don't directly help us. That's a good idea, Aex, it may help. Try if if the giants agree to work with us. Any idea why the Bralin's spell didn't work?"
Returning to the giants, he briefly sells them on the groups abilities, "You giants are indeed strong. Our Dwarves here know more about stone than anyone should. Several of us also wield magic, which can help you smash through much more quickly. And I think we could help you focus your efforts some, we should be through in no time at all if we work together. Also, I hear it's pretty dangerous in there, even for a group of strong giants like yourselves. If you want to travel together once through, every one of us is highly skilled with a blade or uses powerful magic, some both. We have a lot of experience fighting a variety of powerful enemies. Captain Rill here could direct our combined forces, if you wish. With your strength and our combat experience, we should be able to handle almost anything."
He pauses and looks at the giants' various attempts to breach the wall. "Or, we can help you get through the wall and part ways if you wish. We won't attack you if you don't attack us. There should be plenty of treasure in there for all of us."
If the giants agree to work together, Jozhur points out what he thinks is the weakest point and confers with the others before directing the giants to work there. He also tries to get a bead on how trustworthy these giants are.
Diplomacy: 29 Perception: 45 Sense motive: 27
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T16 / FF32) CMD 38 - HP 191/191) Monday February 18th, 2019 6:31:33 PM
Bralin is in agreement with Fang on a temporary alliance to break through the wall, and nothing more. He is relieved when Jozhur more or less suggests that very option.
"The walls heal themselves," he volunteers. "My spell worked, but the effects were temporary. If the giants concentrate their force, they should open a breech long enough for all to get through."
DM Kathy Monday February 18th, 2019 10:21:26 PM
When Florian alights, Tahni asks him whether he saw anything. "No," he admits reluctantly, "but I sill say we don't need the giants."
She suggests that the giants might be useful inside the city, as well, but Fang protests that they shouldn't be mere cannon fodder.
Aexana suggests casting a spell, but Bralin points out that the walls seem to be healing themselves. A spell might not work.
Jozhur tries again with the giant leader, pointing out how you can help each other. He seems receptive. With Terser's help, Jozhur selects a likely-looking spot in the wall and begins organizing teams to break through. The giants resist a little at first. Apparently, they had been having an impromptu contest to see who could make the biggest smash in an unblemished section of wall, and your plan puts an end to that. It isn't too difficult, however, to get them re-focused on the promise of gold. As you work, the giant leader introduces himself as Clalto Nim.
Rill watches carefully, but sees no signs of treachery. At the moment.
It takes a great deal of effort, but the giants do eventually break through the wall. The breach begins closing immediately, so there is limited time to get through it. The giants begin rushing through without hesitation.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 230/230, DR 3/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 39/39, channel 7/7) Tuesday February 19th, 2019 12:08:04 AM
Terser keeps himself towards the edge of the gap, helping push the others through and punching out pieces of stone with his cestus where it seems to be growing back the fastest. He wastes no time getting through once the others are accounted for.
Rill - Warren sub-posting) Tuesday February 19th, 2019 12:15:47 AM
Rill also waits towards the end. If the wall begins to close up too much, he will grab whoever is left and dimensional hop them through while the hole is still open.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 154+20Temp/154 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Tuesday February 19th, 2019 4:08:26 AM
Tahni is quite happy to shuffle through the gap. Once on the other side a thought does occur to her.... how will they get out?
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 158/158 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Tuesday February 19th, 2019 3:06:12 PM
Jozhur returns the introduction, thinking these giants don't seem all too bad. He certainly trusts them more than Florian.
When the hole opens, Jozhur ushers everyone through quickly. If the hole appears to be closing too quickly for him to squeeze through at the end, he can use his Shadow Jump (dimension door) to get through.
ooc: I'm assuming shadows are plentiful in this land of twilight, so Jozhur can use his abilities requiring shadows pretty much at will.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC37 / T16 / FF32) CMD 38 - HP 191/191) Tuesday February 19th, 2019 5:47:32 PM
Bralin hurries through the breach.
He holds fast on the other side, waiting for the rest of his comrades.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List d20+6=25 ; Tuesday February 19th, 2019 7:21:04 PM
Fang goes through the hole in no particular rush. If it's closing fast enough to threaten a small creature after a bunch of huge giants ran through then she'd be fairly shocked and wonder how on earth the giants got through quick enough.
On the other side she takes stock of her surroundings (25 perception)
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP130/130 - AC25/19/21 - CMD 24 and LEAFY (L) - HP97/97 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday February 19th, 2019 7:57:03 PM
Well we needed to find a way in... this is it... But like Tahni the little Greenmage is also worried how they will get out again once at the other side.
'Fingers crossed this thing isn't going to close on us when we go through... come Leafy... our turn... oh don't give me that... c'mon,.. "
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