Walk in the Woods. (DM SteveK) Friday May 17th, 2019 9:03:41 AM
Sarge considers the implications of the last riddle line. We are here?
Desdichado can’t really tell where the water-sound is coming from (Ooc: Perception Check?), but the expediency of even a single step down the trail gives him the information he needs (Ooc: see below)
Hmerrin keeps on Dez’ tail.
Wilford declares ‘We are here!’, half-joke, half a thought akin to ‘well, if every other line was so darn Alemi literal!...
Toston and Gaffer immediately recognize the bubbling water sounds wrong for a waterfall. There isn’t any unusual flora or fauna on the trail, and both get a sense that if they go off the trail, the ‘agreement’ with Culverwood would be ended and they would be in real danger of becoming hopelessly lost. ....
The Tide moves forward, and sees a pool, the bubbling from an area where water is bubbling up from the bottom of the pool. It is a spring! The area around the pool consists of beautiful plants and trees, yet they are being strangled by green-black vines with thorns and sticky sap. The Pool itself is partly clear and glowing, partly murky and magically dark, all swirled together. On a little island at the center of the pond, a beautiful woman clad in a dress of shimmering gold and silver threads reclines. She doesn’t seem to see the Tide’s arrival. Toston and Gaffer (Highlight to display spoiler: { can see she is a water elemental, and her face is splotchy like the water. }
(OOC: All PCs get 2,000xp for solving the riddle! Sarge gets a Hero Point for being most influential in solving the riddle!)
Wilford Grimly (HP:51/51; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 20) Friday May 17th, 2019 1:42:18 PM
"Excellent," Will says with a smile. (OOC: Really busy at work.. Wilford will be a little less animated for a little bit. Hoping I can get back into the fun soon. I am still posting just not with too much content.)
Sarge (Kathy) Friday May 17th, 2019 11:18:10 PM
Sarge strides--or rather, clanks--up to the water's edge. "Hello!" she calls. "Sorry to trouble you. But--could you tell us the name of this place?"
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:27 T:16 FF:22 CMD:26) Sunday May 19th, 2019 10:04:21 AM
Hmerrin cringes a bit when Sarge calls out.
"Beautiful, helpless woman just hanging out in a magic pond in an enchanted forest," he whispers. "Lot of these stories end with 'and no one ever saw them again'".
The young fighter waits to see what happens.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Sunday May 19th, 2019 6:06:45 PM
Dez shares Hmerrin's opinion and thinks to himself, "Oh great, more of these fey creatures. I never feel like I can trust them....oh great, I really hope this one can't read minds!"
He stands near the others and waits for a response.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:33/22/29 - CMD 28 Sunday May 19th, 2019 11:39:10 PM
Toston says, "Well whoever this lady in the lake is maybe she'll bestow upon us a legendary blade or something. You never know. I think I heard a story about this once where the guy got the sword and became king."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 61/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 7/9) Monday May 20th, 2019 12:45:22 PM
Gaffer approaches the edge of the lake before bending at the waist to greet the Elemental, "Well met, I am a Druid, Gaffer, may we ask your name?"
Wilford Grimly (HP:51/51; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 20) Monday May 20th, 2019 5:23:08 PM
"A lady in the lake!... awww.. a lady in the lake. This is wonderful. Unless she is angry then that's not wonderful. Is she angry? Does she give out gifts?" "You should talk to her," says Cicero. "Your a good talker... talk." will declines and decides to let the others greet the lady of the lake. "I think my stepping forward first to fight days are over," Wil finally says.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Monday May 20th, 2019 7:19:15 PM
Desdichado stands in anticipation of what the woman will have to say.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:33/22/29 - CMD 28 Monday May 20th, 2019 8:26:18 PM
"Well I'm interested to know if she is friend or foe. Hopefully we've made another new friend like those delightful orcs."
Sarge (Kathy) Monday May 20th, 2019 10:19:27 PM
Sarge smiles over her shoulder at Hmerrin. "Yeah, but most of those guys were men. Which is why I took the lead. Maybe she'll be nicer to me."
The Pool. (DM SteveK) Tuesday May 21st, 2019 7:39:29 AM
Sarge strides--or rather, clanks--up to the water's edge. "Hello!" she calls. "Sorry to trouble you. But--could you tell us the name of this place?"
Hmerrin cringes a bit when Sarge calls out. He recalls the end of most fairy tales: 'and no one ever saw them again'. The young fighter waits to see what happens. Sarge smiles over her shoulder at Hmerrin. "Yeah, but most of those guys were men. Which is why I took the lead. Maybe she'll be nicer to me." (ooc: DM did a LOL!)
Desdichado shares Hmerrin's opinion, it is difficult to trust fey creatures. He stands in anticipation of what the woman will have to say.
Toston opines that maybe she'll bestow upon us a legendary blade or something. You never know! Once suggested, he is interested to know if she is friend or foe…
Gaffer diffidently greets the elemental, offering an exchange of names.
Wilford sees the scene and feels the Tide is finally there. Excellent! But is she angry? Maybe not wonderful. …………..
The woman-figure looks up and around at the sound of Sarge and Gaffer speaking. (Sense Motive DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { the hunch is she is startled and didn’t hear or see the Tide’s approach. }) (Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { the woman-figure is acting like someone who is blind. })
“Who? Who comes? A druid and companions? It has been many seasons since a Woods-walker has come to the Pool. I am the Guardian, but soon will fade for the evil overtaking me.” As if on cue, the vines pulse and grow, the water becomes more occluded, and the Guardian visibly weakens. ”A corrupted Woodswalker sought my treasures, and when I rejected her demands, she summoned evil to the Pool. I will soon fade, and the treasure will fade with me. She will never possess them!”
Guardian holds up a warning hand. ”And if you are of evil intent, or in league with corruption, you have come in vain.’ Beseechingly, she holds out her arms in supplication. ”But if you are good like the dwarf named Orc-Friend; he who promised he would map the pathways to the Pool for others of goodly ways; I implore you to free me from the evil elementals which reside in the Pool!” ….
Map in email.
Sarge (Kathy) d20+6=22 ; d20+6=24 ; Tuesday May 21st, 2019 4:56:57 PM
Sarge moves right up to the water's edge [M-12 or N-13, depending on which set of numbers we're using]. "You're in luck; we're good adventurers. How do we free you? Just whack the stuffing out of them, or is there some kind of ritual or something?"
"Sorry, ma'am, we didn't mean to startle you. Are you able to see us, or has the poisoning of the well affected your vision?"
"As Sarge says, we're not here for any evil intent. We, too, have been named Orc Friends by the Unicorn Tribe. So, you'd like us to fight off these evil creatures, huh?"
Dez wonders how deep the water is near to the edge of the pool and how quickly it drops off. (Perception: 11)
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Tuesday May 21st, 2019 8:26:04 PM
Oh, and Dez moves to N-14.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:27/24/23 - CMD 26 d20+7=12 ; d20+16=17 ; Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 12:29:54 AM
Sense Motive: 12 Perception: 17
Toston can't make out anything regarding the woman in the lake. Toston then casts mage armor. He then moves 30 feet to top O, bottom N 11
Active Effects: Mage Armor: +4 AC - 5 hours
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 61/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 7/9) d20+16=24 ; d20+9=24 ; d20+13=22 ; Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 6:03:48 AM
Perception: 24, Sense Motive: 24
"We were given a map by a good tribe of Orcs,. We will do our best."
Gaffer approaches the edge of the lake and inspects it's waters before looking over at the tendrils. (Nature: 22) Is there anything more to the corruption that the evil elemental?
The Pool. (DM SteveK) Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 7:10:07 AM
Sarge moves right up to the water's edge, and reassures the woman. “How do we free you? Just whack the stuffing out of them, or is there some kind of ritual or something?" (‘whack the stuffing’? LOL!)
Hmerrin echoes the woman; "Reside IN the pool? Joy." Drawing his axes, he asks, "I don't suppose you could get them to come out here?”
Desdichado ensures the Tide didn’t mean to startle the woman. He continues to seek situational awareness. “Are you able to see us, or has the poisoning of the well affected your vision? So, you'd like us to fight off these evil creatures, huh?" The paladin can’t move in the same space as Hmerrin, so steps beside the young fighter.
Toston casts mage armor, and moves with monkish speed to stand beside Sarge.
Wilford (DM move for Player) takes a step to be ready for healing whoever needs it, and stays silent. He must be speaking to the voices in his head!
Gaffer also reassures the woman and looks about. His great knowledge of the nature of the Wold makes him come to the conclusion that the vines are NOT part of the evil elementals in the Pool, but instead are because evil resides here, and where evil resides, evil quickly grows. (Ooc: for more information, see Druidicsm )
….....
“The corruption makes me blind and nearly senseless
[b]”Yes, slay them!”, the woman urges. ”You can attract them by merely touching the Pool, and they will arise to attack. But be wary, they are difficult to hurt or destroy. They will reform if killed while touching water themselves. They can also control me or other water elementals, making me fight against you.”
(Know Planes DC 18 Highlight to display spoiler: { By the woman’s description, the ‘Them’ are Water Weirds. })
………
Map via email (changed numbering system to reduce confusion.)
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 1:02:24 PM
Desdichado steps up to the edge of the pool and looks in. (OOC: I think I read the table wrong last time, I should be at N15.)
"You say if we fight them in the water, they'll reform. So, anyone have ideas on how we lure them out of the water?"
Sarge (Kathy) Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 1:57:19 PM
"Slap the water and run away?" Sarge suggests. "Or, I guess, somebody nimble slaps the water and runs away, and the rest of us wait over there--" she points "--to clobber whatever comes out."
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:27 T:16 FF:22 CMD:26) Wednesday May 22nd, 2019 6:44:51 PM
"Can we grab hold of them?" Hmerrin asks. "Or will they just melt back into the pool?"
He thinks. And thinks some more. "Cold probably. Maybe bludgeoning weapons instead of blades. Which means I've got nuthin'. I can try grabbing one and hauling it over there." He nods to where Sarge is pointing.
Toston calls out, "It sounds like she is talking about water weirds!"
He then casts shield on himself.
He says, "I'll volunteer to slap the water and run away towards you guys."
If he can do so with his remaining move action he does.
Active Effects: Mage Armor: +4 AC - 5 hours (2999 rounds) Shield: +4 shield bonus to AC; immunity to magic missile
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 61/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 7/9) Thursday May 23rd, 2019 5:11:04 AM
Gaffer backs himself as far from the water as he can, casting Barkskin on himself as he moves. "I didn't really prepare for this but let's go."
The Pool. (DM SteveK) Thursday May 23rd, 2019 7:55:27 AM
Desdichado steps up to the edge of the pool and looks in. The murky water doesn’t show anything. From Toston’s description, Water Weirds are made of water and all but invisible when in their element. He asks if there are any ideas on how to lure them out."
Sarge suggests to slap the water and run away, maybe someone nimble, and selects a point away from the Pool to wait and clobber whatever comes out.
Hmerrin wonders if he can grab them and drag them away from the water. Maybe cold weapons or bludgeoning (taking a sour look at his axes). Hmerrin volunteers to try and wrestle one out of the water.
Toston thinks she is talking about water weirds! And the monk/sorcerer/dragon disciple thinks of another bit of information too: Water Weirds are supposedly vulnerable to the spell Purify Food and Drink. He casts shield on himself and volunteers to slap the water and run to ‘the spot’.
Gaffer backs himself as far from the water as he can, casting Barkskin on himself as he moves. "I didn't really prepare for this but let's go."
(DM post for Matt) Wilford goes to the place indicated by Sarge and Readies to cast Spiritual Weapon, intending to strike the first Water Weird he sees.
…….
The woman sits unspeaking.
The Tide seems to have a plan; most of the group to go to a point away from the Pool (ooc: DM sees three potential places [around M6, or I15, or K19]. Do the Players want to choose or have the DM roll a die to determine which place?]
Toston and Hmerrin keep by the Pool. Toston to slap and run, and Hmerrin to ready a Grapple. (ooc: please confirm)
Toston waits for the others to get into place… .....
(AC: 16, Attack: 1)(If the weird appears) "Anyone, a good swimmer and fighter? I got some Protection for you." He prepares Magic Vestment for the first person to volunteer.
Orisons: Detect Magic x1, Resistance: x2 Light: 1 Granted Powers D: Resistant Touch - D: Touch of Good - Lv1: Protection from Evil/Chaos..etc, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith - D: Sanctuary Lv2: Spiritual Weapon, Resist Energy, Consecrate, D: Shield Another (if needed - Cure moderate Wounds) Lv3: Magic Vestment, Magic Circle against... - D: Protection from Energy Lv4: Summon Monster IV, Summon Monster IV - Domain: Dispel Evil
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:27 T:16 FF:22 CMD:26) d20+14=22 ; Thursday May 23rd, 2019 6:45:37 PM
"How 'bout you guys wait over there," Hmerrin says, indicating the area around J8/K9.
The lad steps over to L9 and pulls out a potion. When Toston is ready, he drains it, and gives the gnome a nod.
"Let's see how bad an idea this really is," he comments.
-- Drink Bulls Str potion. Next round - ready action - grab whatever comes chasing after Toston. Grapple check 22
Sarge (Kathy) Thursday May 23rd, 2019 10:33:56 PM
Sarge walks over to the area Hmerrin indicates, and pulls out her hammer. "I don't have Purify Food and Drink prepared," she says, "but I could get it if I needed it. We'll call that Plan B. Dez, do you want to be big?"
If Dez wants it, Sarge casts Enlarge Person on him.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:31/20/27 - CMD 26 Thursday May 23rd, 2019 11:01:52 PM
If everyone is in position Toston tries to upset the water and then hopefully get to I12 so that if the weird is to come after him it should hopefully be fully exposed on land and open to the counter attacks of his friends.
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 61/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 7/9) Friday May 24th, 2019 3:57:54 AM
Gaffer moves over to K9 and nods to show he is ready.
He prepares himself to cast Faerie Fire on the elemental as soon as it leaves the water, coating it in a purple glow and hoping that stops it running away.
Water Weirds! Rd1 (DM SteveK) d20+13=14 ; d20+13=15 ; Friday May 24th, 2019 8:17:10 AM
Wilford moves as far as he can away from the water and casts Spiritual Weapon, creating a glowing staff that hovers ready to strike above Toston’s head. He offers Magic Vestment, but none of the Tide volunteers.
Hmerrin points to an alcove in the thick forest for the Tide to wait. He, himself, steps over in front of the rest of the Tide, pulls out a potion of Bulls Strength, and drinks. He readies to Grapple the supposed water weird, and gives Toston the nod to splash.
Sarge walks over to the area Hmerrin indicates, and pulls out her hammer. She suggests a ‘Plan B’ if they can’t defeat the Weirds with what they have.
Gaffer moves over and nods to show he is ready. He Readies Faerie Fire on the water weird as soon as it leaves the water, coating it in a purple glow and hoping that stops it running away.
Desdichado, moves to position with the rest of the Tide, and gets into a defensive stance.
Once everyone is in position, Toston slaps the water… and things start to happen! ………………..
Immediately, not one, but TWO Water Weirds erupt from the Pool. Huge but sinuous, they hiss like a steam kettle and they keep some of their body in the Pool. They are ready to strike, but the Tide is also prepared!
Wilford’s Spirit Weapon strikes and misses!
Hmerrin’s ready action means the fighter takes a step forward and grabs, successfully Grappling the first Water Weird! It is an unusual feeling, wrestling a huge snake made of resistant water, but Hmerrin successfully holds on!
Gaffer coats Weird #2 in a purple Faerie Fire, making it easy to see in or out of the water!
Then the Water Weirds strike.
Weird #1 is Grappled, so tries to reverse the grapple, but fails. Perhaps it is the unusual tactics of initiating a grapple against a water weird that has the creature so confused?
Weird#2 strikes out to Grapple Toston, and fares no better than its twin. …………
Map by email
OOC: Toston. The weirds are already out, and so DM didn’t complete Toston’s action to withdraw into the woods at I12, which would incur an AOO. Player can post for Toston’s movement action this round and full action next round in next post.
Water Weird 1 AC 20 CMD 20,22 for Grapple Conditions: Grappled by Hmerrin
Water Weird 2 AC 20 CMD 20,22 for Grapple Conditions: Faerie Fire (-20 Stealth)
Wilford Grimly (HP:51/51; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 20) d20+8=19 ; d8=4 ; d20+8=21 ; d8=3 ; Friday May 24th, 2019 12:31:33 PM
Wil drops the request to help someone with Magic Vestment and summons a Shark. The Spiritual weapon attempts to strike again. (Attack: 19 - Hit: 4)(Second Attack: 21 - Hit 3) (OOC: With the understanding that I now have a second attack due to BAB update)
Orisons: Detect Magic x1, Resistance: x2 Light: 1 Granted Powers D: Resistant Touch - D: Touch of Good - Lv1: Protection from Evil/Chaos..etc, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith - D: Sanctuary Lv2: Spiritual Weapon rd- 2, Resist Energy, Consecrate, D: Shield Another (if needed - Cure moderate Wounds) Lv3: Magic Vestment, Summon Monster III - D: Protection from Energy (OOC: Removed Lv4 - found, lvl 6 cleric does not have access to Lv4 magic..yet)
Sarge (Kathy) Friday May 24th, 2019 1:50:56 PM
"We gotta get 'em out of the pool!" Sarge calls.
She casts Prayer.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] d20+12=19 ; Friday May 24th, 2019 5:54:10 PM
Desdichado takes out the little mace he keeps at his side for cracking skeletons, and takes a step towards the water weird (WW1, move to M10), but fails to connect (19 vs AC20).
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:27) d20+19=28 ; Saturday May 25th, 2019 9:41:36 AM
"Working on it!" Hmerrin grunts in response to Sarge. "Trying to move pudding here!"
Maintaining his choke hold on the creature, the lad plants his right foot hard and twists to the left, using the torque to wrest it from the water.
-- Grapple check 28. If successful move to N9, while placing weird adjacent to Hmerrin at M6/O8.
Move action: Toston acrobatically tumbles to K11 attempting not to provoke AOOs
Turn
Toston casts scorching ray at weird 2 (13 vs touch AC; 17 fire damage) He then takes a 5 foot step to J12
Active Effects: Mage Armor: +4 AC - 5 hours (2997 rounds) Shield: +4 shield bonus to AC; immunity to magic missile (48 rounds)
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 7/9) 3d6=9 ; Monday May 27th, 2019 6:44:27 AM
Gaffer backs up five feet and uses his Llightning Lord feature to call down two bolts of lightning, one for each Weird flashing from the sky.
Water Weirds! Rd2 (DM SteveK) d20+10=30 ; d20+10=28 ; d20+10=14 ; d20+10=12 ; d20+10=28 ; d6=5 ; d6=6 ; d20+7=19 ; d20+7=14 ; d20+13=25 ; d20+13=23 ; Monday May 27th, 2019 8:56:01 AM
Wilford moves to a different strategy and casts a long and complicated spell; Summon Shark! As he does so, the Spiritual weapon attempts to strike again, striking Weird 1 once.
Sarge calls, "We gotta get 'em out of the pool!", and casts Prayer.
Desdichado takes out a mace, takes a step forward and finds the natural armor of the Weird too strong for his first swing.
Hmerrin grunts in response to Sarge. "Working on it! Trying to move pudding here!" Maintaining his choke hold, the lad plants his right foot hard and twists to the left, using the torque to wrest it from the water!
Toston acrobatically tumbles away from the Weirds, then casts Scorching Ray at Weird 2, and steam hisses from the water creature! The gnome, then takes a step into the underbrush for additional cover... and his scenery changes! Vines clutch at the gnome, two attaching themselves and squeezing (Toston takes 11 damage and is Grappled by two vines). Perhaps even more disturbing, bushes move around and Toston suddenly can't see the battle, and worse, its echoing sounds seem like it is further away than it should! (Survival DC 20 to determine correct direction to the battle) (Sense Motive DC20 ( Highlight to display spoiler: {Toston has the hunch that moving into the forest has broken the ritual pact with Culverwood!} )
Gaffer backs up five feet and uses his Lightning Lord feature to call down two bolts of lightning, one for each Weird flashing from the sky! .............
The water woman doesn't move, still sitting in the fountain of the island, looking forlorn.
Weird 1 writhes and hisses, undulating within Hmerrin's arms, but can't break the young fighter's grip!
Weird 2 slides forward and strikes, coiling around Desdichado! (Desdichado gains the Grappled condition)
Wilford's Shark appears and can target Weird 2.
…………
Map by email
All effect: Prayer; Tide gain +1 luck bonus on attack, weapon damage, saves, skill checks. Weirds gain -1 luck. Shark not affected.
Water Weird 1 AC 20 CMD 20,22 for Grapple Dam 7 Conditions: Grappled by Hmerrin
Water Weird 2 AC 20 CMD 20,22 for Grapple Dam 26 Conditions: Faerie Fire (-20 Stealth
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 56/67; AC:31/20/27 - CMD 26/36 vs grapple d20+7=19 ; d20+3=11 ; d20+16=20 ; d20+16=26 ; d20+18=19 ; d20+18=25 ; d8=6 ; d20+16=17 ; Monday May 27th, 2019 9:45:41 AM
Sense Motive: 19 Survival : 11
Toston doesn't know why the vines are attacking him or where the battle is. He calls out to his friends, "I'm being attacked by vines! Is that other druid in the area or did the water elemental cast a spell against me? I need serious help!"
Toston uses a hero point to grant himself a +8 luck bonus to his concentration check and then attempts to cast grease on his clothing. Toston heroically takes a muligan
Re-rolled Concentration with hero point so 26 (instead of 20) vs 10 + vine's cmb +1 for spell level
Toston then heroically tries to escape the grapple and most likely fails so he heroically takes another mulligan.
Re-rolled CMB was 19 became 25
If Toston has escaped the vines he will take a 5 foot step or a move action southwest to I13 (OOC: rolled a d8 came up at 6 so that means SW, since he does not know where the battle is or know why he is being attacked I figure random movement makes sense; if 5 foot step is not allowed; Toston will use his move action)
(Perception: 17 to figure out where the battle is)
(d8 = 1 = N, 2 = NE, 3 = E, 4 = SE, 5 = S, 6 = SW, 7=W, 8=NW)
Hero Points Spent 1 to boost concentration 1 to reroll concentration 1 to take extra standard action 1 to reroll check to escape the grapple
Actions: Standard to Cast Grease Heroic Standard to Escape the Grapple Free or Move: to take 5 foot step
Active Effects: Mage Armor: +4 AC - 5 hours (2996 rounds) Shield: +4 shield bonus to AC; immunity to magic missile (47 rounds) Grease: +10 to CMB or Escape Artist Check to get out of grapple; +10 to CMD to avoid a grapple (50 rounds)
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] d20+13=30 ; Monday May 27th, 2019 10:43:33 AM
Desdichado attempts to control the grapple the Water Weird had on him (CMB 30 vs CMD 20) and move it completely out of the water (WW2 moved to L11:N13).
Will takes a five foot step and casts Sanctuary on Toston
Orisons: Detect Magic x1, Resistance: x2 Light: 1 Granted Powers D: Resistant Touch - D: Touch of Good - Lv1: Protection from Evil/Chaos..etc, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith - D: Sanctuary - used Lv2: Spiritual Weapon rd- 3, Resist Energy, Consecrate, D: Shield Another (if needed - Cure moderate Wounds) Lv3: Magic Vestment, Summon Monster III - rd-1 - D: Protection from Energy (OOC: Removed Lv4 - found, lvl 6 cleric does not have access to Lv4 magic..yet)
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:27) d20+19=21 ; Monday May 27th, 2019 1:21:51 PM
At Toston's cry, Hmerrin glances over, and nearly loses his grip on the slippery water thingy. The young fighter quickly adjusts and clamps down on it again.
"Stay out of the Culverwood!" he cries. "Its attacking everything.....wait a minute...."
Hmerrin looks up, and sure enough, right over Water Thingy's shoulder is a whole lot of Culverwood.
The lad shoves forward, pushing the creature into the woods.
----- Grapple check 21. Use Hero Point to make it 25. Move to N5, putting Water Weird at M2/O4
Sarge (Kathy) d20+14=30 ; d8=5 ; Monday May 27th, 2019 1:59:28 PM
"Ha! Good thinking, Hmerrin!" Sarge calls.
Can Sarge see or hear Toston? If so, she's going to go heal him. If not, she casts Spiritual Weapon and has it attack Weird 2. Hit AC 30 for 7 damage.
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 7/9) 3d6=14 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 4:21:47 AM
Feeling a rush of panic as Toston's shout comes from within the growth, if the efforts so far don't get Toston out Gaffer will cast Diminish Plants to Prune Growth in a line between the party and the direction of Toston's voice, dearly hoping it will not provoke the forest.
If Toston is ok, he will repeat his action from last round, calling down two strikes of Lightning between the Water Weirds.
Water Weirds! Rd3 (DM SteveK) d20+10=29 ; d20+10=18 ; d20+10=15 ; d20+10=16 ; d6=1 ; d20+13=29 ; d8=8 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 7:32:39 AM
Toston is surprised by vines and the location of the battle, and calls to his friends. The Tide can’t see the gnome and it sounds like his voice is from far away! Toston heroically is able to cast Grease on himself and escapes the vines’ grasp! He figures he hasn’t moved and so the logical thing would be to move slowly, and moves through the heavy underbrush to where he thinks is the south-west. He emerges from the Culverwood… on the path! He can clearly hear the battle ahead of him!
Desdichado attempts to control the grapple the Water Weird and executes a successful reverse! (ooc: Reversing a grapple is a standard action. Dez can try to move the Weird next round. If he wants to keep his hand on his mace, Dez incurs a -4 Grapple for not having 2 hands free.)
Wilford’s spiritual weapon attempts to strike again, hitting once, and his shark begins to attack Weird 2 as well. The cleric attempts to cast Sanctuary on Toston, but can’t see the gnome to touch him.
Hmerrin glances over at Toston's cry, and nearly loses his grip on the slippery water thingy. The young fighter quickly adjusts and clamps down on it again. "Stay out of the Culverwood!" he cries. "Its attacking everything.....wait a minute...." Hmerrin shoves forward, pushing the creature into the woods, and vines attack with one grappling the Weird! (Hmerrin gains 1 Hero Point for the wrestle AND the quick thinking!)
Sarge calls, "Ha! Good thinking, Hmerrin!" She can’t see Toston and it sounds like the gnome is shouting from a mile away. So she casts Spiritual Weapon and has it attack Weird 2.
Gaffer feels a rush of panic as Toston's shout comes from within the growth! He casts Diminish Plants and Prunes the Growth of Culverwood in a 200’ quarter circle in Toston’s direction. The forest underbrush and hidden vines retreat, enabling the Tide and Toston to actually see each other, if much obscured! ……..
Weird 1 slides about and breaks the grapple of Hmerrin and the vine, and … vanishes into the Culverwood! Sounds, as if from far away, attest the creature has not escaped, but is being attacked by the Culverwood itself! (OOC: Highlight to display spoiler: {grappling with Hmerrin out of Culverwood and more than half of Weird in the woods, DM judged that the Weird wasn’t completely affected until it broke the grapple and attempted to run back to the Pool. At that moment, the confusion of Culverwood affected the elemental and it was lost!)}
Weird 2 twists about and hisses at the water woman sitting in the fountain on the island in the middle of the Pool.
The woman shudders and raises her hands in the casting of a complicated summons!
……..
Map by email
All effect: Prayer; Tide gain +1 luck bonus on attack, weapon damage, saves, skill checks. Weirds gain -1 luck. Shark not affected.
Water Weird 1 gone
Water Weird 2 AC 20 CMD 20,22 for Grapple Dam 33 Conditions: Faerie Fire (-20 Stealth)
Wilford Grimly (HP:51/51; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 20) d20+8=12 ; d20+8=20 ; d8=2 ; d20+5=18 ; d8+4=9 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 8:53:58 AM
Wil's spiritual weapon attempts to strike again (1 Attack: 12 - miss)(2 attack: 20 - 2 dmg) The Shark attacks Weird 2: (Bite: 18 - 9 dmg) Wil watches as the staff and shark strike their target and he gets excited. "Yes... yes. Finally." Will then walks around and stops behind Desdichado, touches him and cast Touch of Good. (+3 sacred bonus for 1 rd)
Orisons: Detect Magic x1, Resistance: x2 Light: 1 Granted Powers D: Resistant Touch - D: Touch of Good - Lv1: Protection from Evil/Chaos..etc, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith - D: Sanctuary Lv2: Spiritual Weapon rd- 4, Resist Energy, Consecrate, D: Shield Another (if needed - Cure moderate Wounds) Lv3: Magic Vestment, Summon Monster III - rd-2 - D: Protection from Energy
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:27) d20+15=27 ; d8+4=12 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 6:35:10 PM
"Get 'im, Dez!" Hmerrin shouts. "Shove it into the woods!"
The fighter is about to go help the paladin do that very thing, when he sees Water Thingy hiss at Wood Nymph, and the girl start a spell.
"That's probably not good," he mutters. Hmerrin looks around for something to distract the girl, but can only come up with one idea. It's not a particularly good one, though.
"Boy, I hope this works." Already imagining the conversation Toston is gonna wanna have, the fighter pulls out his bow, puts arrow to bowstring, aims for the girl's left shoulder, and lets fly.
--------- Draw weapon and attack. Hit AC 27 for 12 hp damage.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] d20+16=22 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 7:31:14 PM
Desdichado listens to Hmerrin's advice and attempts to move the Water Weird towards the woods (CMB: 22 to move the Water Weird as close to I11:K13 as possible).
(OOC: I'll be honest, grappling always confuses me. :) I'm not sure if I need to make another move to roll, and I'm not sure how far I can move it.)
---- Active effects: Bless Touch of Good
Sarge (Kathy) d20+14=23 ; d20+9=22 ; d8=2 ; d8=5 ; Tuesday May 28th, 2019 10:30:43 PM
Sarge figures Dez will have an easier time wrasslin' the water weird if he's bigger. She casts Enlarge Person on him.
Meanwhile, her Spiritual Weapon continues to thwack it. It hits AC 23 for 4 damage, and AC 22 for 7 damage.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 56/67; AC:31/20/27 - CMD 26/36 vs grapple Wednesday May 29th, 2019 12:39:58 AM
Toston takes a double move action to move 50 feet to K15.
Active Effects: Mage Armor: +4 AC - 5 hours (2995 rounds) Shield: +4 shield bonus to AC; immunity to magic missile (46 rounds) Grease: +10 to CMB or Escape Artist Check to get out of grapple; +10 to CMD to avoid a grapple (49 rounds)
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 7/9) Wednesday May 29th, 2019 6:06:18 AM
Seeing the interaction between the Weird and the Nymph, Gaffer hastily draws up a mist from the water of the lake, aiming to obscure vision between the fight and the Nymph. (Fog Cloud centered on V12)
Wow, that was Fast (DM SteveK) d20=5 ; Wednesday May 29th, 2019 9:09:15 AM
Desdichado wrestles Weird 2 from the pool as shark and two Spiritual hammers strike. Without touching the Pool, the Weird hisses fade and it dies, showering Des with water.
Hmerrin’s arrow also does the job, breaking the concentration of the Elemental woman and fizzling her spell!
Toston gets back to the fight to see the end, and the Tide looks around to see no obvious enemy to fight. .....
The character of the place immediately begins to change ... the decay and foulness recedes, the vines dissipate, and the Pool becomes clear. Gaffer knows and can tell the others that while good slowly increases and resists to the end; evil is quick to build and just as quick to recede.
The Guardian, her eyes also clear, speaks. “I am grateful for you heroes and offer a reward.” Waves move in the Pool and lap on the shore, depositing at the Tide’s feet a Decanter of Endless Water, a Necklace of Adaptation, and a Scimitar of Warning (treat as Trident of Warning).
“For further reward, who will undergo the Challenge of the Heart? Those who pass will win their Greatest Desire.”
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Wednesday May 29th, 2019 11:16:23 AM
Desdichado picks up his mace and places it back at his side. He stands at the edge of the pool and faces the Guardian. "I will take up this challenge, lady. What must I do?", he responds.
Wilford Grimly (HP:51/51; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 20) Wednesday May 29th, 2019 12:23:12 PM
"I will accept the challenge," Wil volunteers. "but the question remains... what is my greatest desire? To get revenge on the Dart sorcerer that kill my father? To return my mother to me, even though I do get to hear her on occasion from the land of the dead.. so maybe not so much a desire." "Eww.. the power to summon shadows. I swear I had this power but it seems to of been removed from my memory when I left Gargul." "Wait.. or.. to do good for the people of Dirt City and restore the city to where it was before the great disaster."
Sarge (Kathy) Wednesday May 29th, 2019 1:40:45 PM
"Thank you for these gifts," Sarge says. "I should mention that I have a spell available to remove poison from a living being. Are you completely healed?"
Assuming she is, Sarge continues. "About this Challenge of the Heart, can you tell us anything more about it?"
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:27) Wednesday May 29th, 2019 6:58:44 PM
Hmerrin leans in to Dez. "I think you got your sentences out of order," he offers helpfully. "Really should start with 'what must I do'".
The lad nods a couple times at the paladin, and rolls back on his heels to hear the girl's answer.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 56/67; AC:31/20/27 - CMD 26/36 vs grapple Wednesday May 29th, 2019 10:11:15 PM
Toston says to his friends, "Well that was anti-climatic."
To the Lady in the Lake he says, "My thanks for the reward. I too would like to know more about this challenge of the heart."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 7/9) Thursday May 30th, 2019 3:53:47 AM
Gaffets lets out a sigh of relief as the fight ends. "Thank you for these" he gestures to the items. He nods at Sarge's questions, adding, "Do you need further help?"
Challenge of the Heart, pt 1 (DM SteveK) Thursday May 30th, 2019 8:27:07 AM
Desdichado restores his mace and faces the Guardian. "I will take up this challenge, lady. What must I do?"
Wilford volunteers as well, "I will accept the challenge," and then considers what IS his greatest desire?
Sarge thanks the Guardian for the gifts, offers to heal the Guardian if needed, and asks more about this Challenge of the Heart?
Hmerrin thinks Dez got his sentences out of order. "Really should start with 'what must I do'".
Toston agrees that was anti-climatic, (but thinks that if they weren’t so prepared it could have gone much differently). To the Guardian, he says "My thanks for the reward. I too would like to know more about this challenge of the heart."
Gaffer’s lets out a sigh of relief as the fight ends, thanks the Guardian for the items, and reinforces Sarge’s offer of help. ………..
The Guardian disappears into the fountain spring in the middle of the island, and emerges from the waters of the Pool only five feet from the shoreline where the Tide stands. The heroes can clearly see her eyes are like the Pool: clear and a healthy blue. The arrow wound has disappeared with her movement as well. She looks around at the vegetation, the vines and deadly overgrowth are still there, but still receding. “The Pool is free and I am as well because of your actions, brave heroes. No healing or further help is needed.”
Desdichado and Wilford have accepted the Challenge, and the Guardian’s eyes begin to glow a soft blue. The glow is echoed in an aura around Dez and Wil. ”The Challenge of the Heart are questions three. Those whose answers are aligned to their true nature and my purpose, will receive an additional reward. No harm will befall those who do not meet nature and purpose, and all who attempt, I will provide safe passage out of the Culverwood.”
She pauses to allow other Tide to accept the Challenge, then speaks the first two questions. “Answer true and from your heart, ere the desired Gift impart:”
“What is your purpose? “
“What is your path?”
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:27) Thursday May 30th, 2019 7:13:00 PM
"Answer three questions, and even if we're wrong, you'll get us out of Culverwood?" Hmerrin echoes back. "I can do that."
Maybe.
At the first two questions, the lad's face scrunches up. "Uhhhhh"
Hmerrin closes his mouth, and looks down at the ground, his face a picture of concentration. After many moments he looks up. "Has anyone else noticed this 'who are you' question has been coming up a lot, recently?"
"Well, I guess my purpose is to be a hero. You know," he waves his arms around to encompass the dead water thingy and the pool. "Beat the bad guys, save the girl, protect the innocent, etc, etc"
"As for my path? Um, I guess I'm on it. Join up with a group of good guys who are kinda thinking the same thing, and go forth and hero."
Hmerrin shuts his mouth. He's not happy with the answer he gave, but he can't think of any other way to say it.
“What is your purpose? “ - "Lady who floats above the water like a lilypad on a pond.. my purpose is to find adventure while doing good. I strive to help the less fortunate." “What is your path?” "Well my path was to find some treasure with the map we had but I am now completely lost and curious to know if you are to X on our treasure map or just a point in our journey." "My favorite color is blue" Wil smiles.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Thursday May 30th, 2019 7:35:41 PM
Desdichado gives a half-smile to Hmerrin's earlier comment. "Hey, it's not every day a paladin gets an honest-to-Domi "Quest of the Heart". We paladins have a reputation to uphold," he ends with a grin.
He returns to the Guardian's questions, and thinks for a while before answering.
"My purpose is to serve."
"My path is to wander."
Sarge (Kathy) Thursday May 30th, 2019 10:28:20 PM
Sarge listens and nods, looking relieved. "Sure, I can do that," she says.
What is your purpose?
"I serve Domi."
What is your path?
"Wherever Domi leads me."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 56/67; AC:31/20/27 - CMD 26/36 vs grapple Friday May 31st, 2019 12:46:19 AM
Toston says, "I accept the challenge as well."
“What is your purpose? “ My purpose is to be a hero, to serve and protect austensibly the people of Dirt City and the Wold in general from the forces of evil and to do what I can to make their lives better.
“What is your path?” My path is an unusual one. I grew up listening to the tales my Grand Da would tell of Alemi and Domi when they were both mortals. Alemi being a mage of great repute and Domi being a martial artist of renowned skill. I have sought in my own way to emulate what they both did while they were mortal. I have studied to become a martial artist and have discovered that I have my own latent magic ability thanks to a Gold Dragon ancestor somewhere in my blood line. I cannot help think that this happy coincidence where my own blood is of the same metallic type of dragon that Alemi adopted as an avatar form is no accident and that somehow the Gods are smiling on my endeavors. I know that my path is also a challenging one that will bear great scrutiny and potential ruin if I abuse the gifts endowed to me by my draconic heritage
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 7/9) Friday May 31st, 2019 4:53:37 AM
"Yeah, let's give it a go, my purposes is... oh ummm" Gaffer stumbles, realising he really isn't sure. He spends a good minute thinking about the question, wondering what drove him to wear his is.
"My purpose is to explore the Wold and help those who need it along the way. I think. That feels right anyway."
"My path is wherever feels right but I uhh, I like to meet good people and go with them, we can do better as a group, and it's just nicer that way."
He frowns, "That probably isn't what you're looking for is it?"
Challenge of the Heart, pt 2 (DM SteveK) Friday May 31st, 2019 8:55:53 AM
With all the Tide joining in, the blue auras outline each Noble Race.
Hmerrin thinks he can do that. Maybe. "Well, I guess my purpose is to be a hero. You know," he waves his arms around to encompass the dead water thingy and the pool. "Beat the bad guys, save the girl, protect the innocent, etc, etc" "As for my path? Um, I guess I'm on it. Join up with a group of good guys who are kinda thinking the same thing, and go forth and hero." Hmerrin’s aura remains. The Guardian looks with glowing blue eyes at the young fighter. “Your family in Merrydale and your oath to Dirt City will be simultaneously threatened. What do you do?”
Wilford smiles. Questions like this are interesting, he thinks. “My purpose is to find adventure while doing good. I strive to help the less fortunate. Well my path was to find some treasure with the map we had but I am now completely lost and curious to know if you are to X on our treasure map or just a point in our journey." He continues "My favorite color is blue". Wilford’s aura fades.
Desdichado tells Hmerrin “We paladins have a reputation to uphold!", and returns to the Guardian's questions. "My purpose is to serve." "My path is to wander." Desdichado’s aura remains. The Guardian looks with glowing blue eyes at the shining paladin. ”The leader of raiders has a magical spell that will kill thousands of innocents were he slain, Ferrin. What will you do?”
Sarge listens and nods. What is your purpose? "I serve Domi." What is your path? "Wherever Domi leads me." Sarge’s aura fades.
Toston says, "I accept the challenge as well. My purpose is to be a hero, to serve and protect austensibly the people of Dirt City and the Wold in general from the forces of evil and to do what I can to make their lives better. My path is an unusual one. I grew up listening to the tales my Grand Da would tell of Alemi and Domi when they were both mortals. Alemi being a mage of great repute and Domi being a martial artist of renowned skill. I have sought in my own way to emulate what they both did while they were mortal. I have studied to become a martial artist and have discovered that I have my own latent magic ability thanks to a Gold Dragon ancestor somewhere in my blood line. I cannot help think that this happy coincidence where my own blood is of the same metallic type of dragon that Alemi adopted as an avatar form is no accident and that somehow the Gods are smiling on my endeavors. I know that my path is also a challenging one that will bear great scrutiny and potential ruin if I abuse the gifts endowed to me by my draconic heritage.” Toston’s aura remains. The Guardian looks with glowing blue eyes at the green-haired gnome. ”A hero often becomes a leader of those who wish to emulate him. What is your leadership style? What do you do?”
Gaffer is willing to give it a go. He spends a good minute thinking about the question, wondering what drove him to where he is. "My purpose is to explore the Wold and help those who need it along the way. I think. That feels right anyway. My path is wherever feels right but I uhh, I like to meet good people and go with them, we can do better as a group, and it's just nicer that way." Gaffer’s aura remains. The Guardian looks with glowing blue eyes at the white-haired human. ”The Emerald Kingdom and the Culverwood are in conflict; Noble Races and Immortal Forest each destroying the creations of the other. What and why is your side? What do you do?”
Sarge (Kathy) Friday May 31st, 2019 3:28:14 PM
Sarge steps back with a little shrug. Apparently, her test is over. She watches the others.
Wilford Grimly (HP:51/51; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 20) Friday May 31st, 2019 3:46:01 PM
"What did you go an say that for," Ivan snaps. "Say what," Wil snaps back as he watches the aura disappear. "I told the truth." "Your truth is - I wanna follow a map," Cicero said in a child's voice. "I didn't say that.. that way. Are you saying I wasn't honest.. I was very honest." Wil is disappointed but as, with most times of his disappointments, his internal voices step in to distract him. "You know.. you just don't understand my humor..." Wil's voice trails off as he realizes he is making a fool of himself and he becomes quiet. He then apologizes and waits patiently.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 56/67; AC:31/20/27 - CMD 26/36 vs grapple Saturday June 1st, 2019 1:19:32 AM
A hero often becomes a leader of those who wish to emulate him. ]What is your leadership style? Toston says, "I know what you mean. A group of gnomes has recently sought me out as apparently my parents have arranged a marriage with one of their number. They are now residing in Dirt City awaiting my return and if they hope to permantly reside in Dirt City they may wish to emulate me as I have been living there for some time now. For the longest time I have tried to downplay who I truly was. I was under the impression that in order to get along in Dirt City heroes had to practice discretion. With recent events the Tide has gained noterierity for things like helping putting a stop to a smuggling ring inside Dirt City, handling the Sargrass crisis, and navigating the case of the goods stolen from the 2 houses we could not stop but becoming noticed. I came to the conclusion before we set off on this adventure that I can no longer hide in the shadows. I need to openly show that I am the hero Toston Lotor and strive to be an example for others to follow. Mayhap through openly setting a good example as an alternative to business as usual in Dirt City other Dirt Citizens will follow my example and the city will improve? On this journey I have tried to be a leader where I could. I have used my brains, words and actions to further our objective.
What do you do? "I try to treat others fairly. For example when we met with the Unicorn Tribe and needed darkness to solve a riddle I politely asked them if we could turn down the lights as we were at their camp. I strive to learn from past mistakes and short-comings like the Death of Sellsea Staffing and temporary death of Ethani, our former companion in arms. I try to use the tactic or strategy that fits the situation I find myself in and to ask for support and guidance from the rest of the Tide when I need it. If we end up in a fight I am comfortable wielding my blade or fists in melee or my spells at range. I continue to learn from whatever happens here and moving forward how to be a better gnome, hero and leader."
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:27) Saturday June 1st, 2019 9:23:42 AM
Hmerrin doesn't even pause.
"Save my family"
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Sunday June 2nd, 2019 10:58:47 AM
Desdichado looks perplexed for a moment when he hears the Guardian call him by his real name. He quickly recovers externally, but internally wonders what that could mean.
He thinks about his response for a few moments.
"Overpower him, if I can, and take him as prisoner to the clerics of Domi. Perhaps they have a way of removing the spell or make it ineffective."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 7/9) Monday June 3rd, 2019 5:14:03 AM
Gaffer does not wait long to answer but looks nervously at his companions as he does.
"There are many beings and creatures who rely on Culverwood to survive, far beyond the emerald kingdom. While I would seek guidance to fully understand the implications of either sides victory, my instinct would be to protect the woods. It was here first, and it isn't the Kingdoms alone to judge."
It’s a Miracle! (DM SteveK) Monday June 3rd, 2019 7:55:58 AM
Sarge steps back with a little shrug. Apparently, her test is over. She watches the others. The Guardian’s blue glowing eyes look upon the dwarven cleric. “To follow Domi is good for you, but remember that even if someone of the Noble Race follows Domi, they may not be Good.”
Wil is disappointed but as, with most times of his disappointments, his internal voices step in to distract him. He waits patiently. The Guardian’s blue glowing eyes look upon the cleric of Alemi. “Animals move from need to need, but the Noble Races must seek beyond your immediate steps and find a greater path than the present.”
Toston provides a long and detailed account of his leadership style. And the blue aura fades as the Guardian’s blue glowing eyes look upon the orange-skinned gnome. “Heroes may be looked up to and tacticians know strategy. Both may be obeyed, but leadership is more than your skills and intents. Remember Topip, Reginald B. Faust, and Jak Flinter. All people you admire and followed, but it wasn’t their skills or abilities that nurtured you; it was their time. Leadership is taking the time to know and encourage your followers, it is a very personal relationship. Do not become aloof for lack of engagement, Toston Lotor!”
Hmerrin doesn't even pause. "Save my family". And the blue aura fades as the Guardian’s blue glowing eyes look upon the young axe-wielding fighter. “I am limited by what I can see and touch as Guardian of this Pool, but the Noble Races do not have to be limited as an elemental is limited. Connections with others of your races that share common goals; goals that you have taken oath to ‘help those in need find an adventuring group to aid them.’ With your affinity to the Woldian League of Adventurers, could you not do both?”
Desdichado looks perplexed for a moment when he hears the Guardian call him by his real name. He quickly recovers externally, but internally wonders what that could mean. He thinks about his response for a few moments. "Overpower him, if I can, and take him as prisoner to the clerics of Domi. Perhaps they have a way of removing the spell or make it ineffective." The aura grows stronger, then coalesces into a sigil in midair in the shape of a Water Weird. ”You show mercy and justice, Ferrin Son of Torrin of the Merchant Guild. What is your Heart’s Desire, that I may make reality through a Miracle?”
Gaffer does not wait long to answer but looks nervously at his companions as he does. "There are many beings and creatures who rely on Culverwood to survive, far beyond the emerald kingdom. While I would seek guidance to fully understand the implications of either sides victory, my instinct would be to protect the woods. It was here first, and it isn't the Kingdoms alone to judge." The aura grows stronger, then coalesces into a sigil in midair in the shape of a Water Weird. “You show wisdom as problems often have more than one or two sides, Gaffer of the Woods. What is your Heart’s Desire, that I may make reality through a Miracle?” …………….
Miracle: as per the spell, it can duplicate any cleric spell of 8th level or lower, duplicate any spell of 7th level or lower, undo harmful spell effects, OR other effects of similar power level as described.
Wilford Grimly (HP:51/51; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 20) Monday June 3rd, 2019 12:19:38 PM
"Animals from the Noble races.. huh. I once new a guy. A centaur. Nice guy. Your a centaur, Cicero?" Wil said suddenly distracted. "That's nice to know." He then returned to gaze at the woman in the water. "You seem like a noble creature.. why do you protect this small pool of water? Do we need additional protection to head through the rest of this predatory forest or will we be heading another direction?"
Sarge (Kathy) Monday June 3rd, 2019 5:13:08 PM To follow Domi is good for you, but remember that even if someone of the Noble Race follows Domi, they may not be Good.
"Umm....okay." Sarge does not typically concern herself with questions of Good and Evil. Now she frowns, considering.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Monday June 3rd, 2019 6:42:31 PM
"My Heart's Desire? That would be the reconciliation of my family, and that my father would find, as you say, both justice and mercy for his deeds. But that is most likely beyond your control, Guardian."
Thinking for a bit, Desdichado continues. "But, my heart also desires that my new friends in The Tide might achieve their ultimate goal. The High Priest of Domi asked both Sarge and I to help them (Maybe you know of this, lady? I know not.), and I would desire what aid you can provide us aid in fulfilling this duty."
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:27) Monday June 3rd, 2019 6:59:05 PM
Hmerrin gives the Water Girl a sour look. "Do both. Nice. That's a trick question."
The young man is sidetracked by Dez's request. He gives Water Lady a curious look.
'Cause he has no clue what the Tide's ultimate goal is...
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 56/67; AC:31/20/27 - CMD 26/36 vs grapple Tuesday June 4th, 2019 12:12:24 AM
As Toston's aura fades he lets out an exasperated sigh.
To the elemental he says, "Oh lady of the lake I have accepted your challenge, been weighed, measured and found wanting. All I did was answer your question truthfully, with words from my heart. My companions were all given hypothetical scenarios to contend with while I was asked a philosophical question. While I appreciate your advice regarding the importance of taking one's time with dealing with followers I would much rather have the type of magical boon you are offering Desdichado and Gaffer. Heck, I'd settle for the divine equivalent of limited wish if such a thing existed as a consolation but alas. I do not intend to be aloof regarding my followers, in fact I specifically made plans to get to know them better upon my return before leaving on the quest to follow the map that lead us all here to help you. I am only sorry that I failed to mention this bit of information when answering your question because apparently those were the magic words that you wanted to hear."
He then sits down and says to Wil and Sarge specifically, "When we get back I'm going to commision some framed scrolls to be made from a skilled caligrapher. They'll read I went on a quest to culverwood, some of our number got miracles and all I got was this piece of advice we turned into a wallhanging:"
"They'll then have the specific advice we were given so Wil yours will read Animals move from need to need, but the Noble Races must seek beyond your immediate steps and find a greater path than the present. Sarge, yours will read “To follow Domi is good for you, but remember that even if someone of the Noble Race follows Domi, they may not be Good. and mine will read Heroes may be looked up to and tacticians know strategy. Both may be obeyed, but leadership is more than your skills and intents. Remember Topip, Reginald B. Faust, and Jak Flinter. All people you admire and followed, but it wasn't their skills or abilities that nurtured you; it was their time. Leadership is taking the time to know and encourage your followers, it is a very personal relationship. Do not become aloof for lack of engagement, Toston Lotor! This way we'll at least always have a souvenir to never forget the wisdom we were given on this day. For what its worth I always thought you acted with more intention than an animal Wil and Sarge, I don't believe I've ever met a follower of Domi who has turned out to be evil."
He then says to his collective friends as a whole, "Do you know if calligraphers charge by the word or do you think I could maybe get some sort of group discount being that I'm commissioning 3 of these things to be made, well maybe 4 depending on what she says to Hmerrin with regards to his answer to the why not do both question. Maybe I could at least get a discount on the framing?"
It’s a Miracle! (DM SteveK) Tuesday June 4th, 2019 9:25:32 AM
Hmerrin gives the Guardian a sour look. Sarge frowns consideringly. Toston gives an indignant soliloquy. None of the reactions garner any response from the Guardian. Enigmatic, fickle, or something else, the elemental woman doesn’t share her reasons or explain further.
Desdichado thinks a bit and states, “my heart desires that The Tide might achieve their ultimate goal. and I to help them and I would desire what aid you can provide us aid in fulfilling this duty." The blue-eyed Guardian says nothing yet, but turns her eyes to Gaffer and waits. (Sense Motive DC20 Highlight to display spoiler: { There is a hunch that the test is not done yet! The Guardian seems to be weighing what Dez and Gaffer ask for…} )
Wilford asks some questions. While the Guardian doesn’t explain why she protects the Pool, she does explain the Tide’s next steps. “When we are done, I will open a path for you through the Culverwood to safely return to the Bight.”
………….. Ooc: Miracle: as per the spell, it can duplicate any cleric spell of 8th level or lower, duplicate any spell of 7th level or lower, undo harmful spell effects, OR other effects of similar power level as described.
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 7/9) d20+9=19 ; Tuesday June 4th, 2019 9:50:53 AM
(Sorry for the late post)
Gaffer drifts off in thought for a while before suddenly snapping back to awareness.
"Thank you for your kind words. I would wish that I could grow wiser still. I know there will be more challenges ahead and I fear the day I fall short." He looks at the group around them, weighing in his mind. "If that is not possible, a way to revive my allies should it be needed, would be a gift I would treasure."
Subbing for Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:27) Tuesday June 4th, 2019 11:47:02 AM
"I guess," Hmerrin says after a long pause. "A adventuring groups ultimate purpose would be to do what's best for the Wold. Defend the innocent. You seem to reflect a lot on the Noble races. If there something we should be looking for?"
Sarge (Kathy) Tuesday June 4th, 2019 4:33:46 PM
Sarge waves away Toston's suggestion. "Nah," she says. "I don't want a fancy scroll. We've got something better--a comic tale to swap for free drinks at the watering hole of our choice. It will suffice."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 56/67; AC:31/20/27 - CMD 26/36 vs grapple Wednesday June 5th, 2019 12:19:02 AM
Toston says, "Oh Lady of the Lake, when we first got here you mentioned another druid that unleashed the water weirds that were plaguing your body of water here, if we go back to the Bight will the other druid not be free to come back and pollute your waters again? Should we not be sent to put an end to this other druid first before returning to the Bight?"
Final Guardian Words (DM SteveK) Wednesday June 5th, 2019 7:31:55 AM
Gaffer asks for wisdom from the Guardian, then a way to revive allies should it be needed. The sigil in the air wavers, then steadies. (Sense Motive DC20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Gaffer nearly lost his chance for the Miracle by asking for something just for himself! } ) The Guardian watches with alien disinterest as Gaffer’s sigil moves forward and becomes a tattoo on the druid’s forearm. ”Asking not for yourself but for others, you receive this Miracle. The Pool provides you with one Breath of Life spell. If you are able to touch another within seconds of them dying, they will not go to the Lands of Rest, but revive.” (ooc: add following to Gaffer Character Sheet. Pool Seal: cast Breath of Life once at CL9. When cast, the tattoo fades. Seal does not count against the hero's Wealth By Level. Given by CMTC DM SteveK on 5 Jun 19)
At the same time, Desdichado’s sigil moves to the surface of the Pool, and, as it touches, the waters become still as glass. The Guardian speaks. ”Asking not for yourself but for others, you receive this Miracle. Watch the Pool and you will see a possible future… a future without the Tide in Dirt City.”
Everyone can see the images. Grey buildings, the skyline of Dirt City form, and images of people move about. Then the buildings start to crumble: windows smashed, fire taking roofs and wooden supports. The Castle of the Prince of Thieves is a ruin, Wolf Tower only rubble, Temple of Wardd a burning torch. Also destroyed are the docks, the Crescent Moons Trading Company, Marsh House, Shale House, the Woldian League of Adventurers. A line of captives marches by which includes people Dez and Sarge don’t know, but the Tide does: Abel Boggs, Sunny Culpeper, and Brother Elthorn. Nearby lay the gnawed bones of someone, a head on a pike revealing it as what used to be Tombo Greenhand! The images fade.
Hmerrin says “You seem to reflect a lot on the Noble races.” This causes the Guardian to give an actual laugh, similar to the sound of the fountain’s falling water. ”I do not. I but say what I say and think in the moment. And at this moment, I think I will say that because you are of the Noble Races, then I have spoken that which you may want to listen. Whether you do or not is up to you.” She pauses, then something else strikes her as she speaks again. ”Of all the creatures in the Wold, it is the Noble and Ignoble Races that have the most free will. The most ability to both change themselves and their surroundings. There are exceptions, but how many tribes of Orcs are there with Unicorns? If the Wold is to change, it is the Noble and Ignoble Races that have the best chance to make changes.”
Toston asks about the other druid and asks “should we not be sent to put an end to this other druid first before returning to the Bight?" The Guardian shakes her head and the Pool begins to bubble near the shore, soon revealing a mud-covered human woman very well preserved. The corpse, with all the mud-smeared equipment of a well-stocked adventurer, is deposited on the shore at the feet of the Tide. ”In cursing, the druid left herself open to my power. See, she has been dead a century, but her work was slowly winning anyways.”
“And so, our revels now are ended, and mortal lives are rounded by a little sleep. Farewell, heroes of the Tide, and may your gods look favorably upon your future efforts.” The Guardian gestures in a ‘please’ gesture, and the dense thickets and trees of the Culverwood to the south of the heroes part, and the Tide can see a path to the Bight. In fact, the plains of Izen are only 100 feet away!
Wilford Grimly (HP:51/51; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 20) Wednesday June 5th, 2019 10:32:43 AM
Wil watches as the woman disappears then recalls a question. "Hey, were we not supposed to get a sword from you and become kings? Where have I heard that before? I swear that was a thing." Expecting no answer he follows the others.
Subbing for Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:27) Wednesday June 5th, 2019 10:42:48 AM
"I understand," Hmerrin says. "We are the guardians of the city? We alone can protect it from ruin. Isn't there two Orc tribes with unicorns?" Hmerrin also waits for the others to start toward the portal. "Culverwood is going to be upset it couldn't get a piece of us," he adds.
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 7/9) d20+9=13 ; d20+16=30 ; Wednesday June 5th, 2019 7:51:04 PM
Gaffer bows once more to the Lady, "Thank you, truly. Though I hope to not need it, I will remember your kindness if I do. If you have need of us again, I hope you may find a way to reach out."
He walks merrily along the path towards the Bight, mostly oblivious to the displeasure some of his companions shown. Distracted instead inspecting his new tattoo. "So cool... I should make this permanent."
Once they are fully clear he looks around the Orcs, on the off chance they are around, (Perception: 30) Saying to his companions, "So... do we go straight back to Dirt City now?"
Sarge (Kathy) Wednesday June 5th, 2019 10:30:41 PM
"Thank you for your time, Guardian," Sarge says with a little bow. She turns and follows her companions out of the Culverwood.
"Looks like we ought to," she says to Gaffer. "If that vision is any indication, they're going to need our help."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 56/67; AC:31/20/27 - CMD 26/36 vs grapple d20+16=31 ; d20+5=15 ; d20+14=17 ; Thursday June 6th, 2019 1:06:03 AM
Toston takes a look at the druid's gear, casting detect magic before doing so.
He says to his Wil and Sarge, "I don't know if there is anything to be learned from the long dead druid but do either of you have speaks with dead. Would it make sense to question this corpse that lived centuries ago? Do you think we could learn anything?"
To the rest of his companions he says, "I wonder who is responsible for this potential future scourging of Dirt City."
(Perception:31) (Spellcraft:15) (Know[arcana]:17)
Treasure! (DM SteveK) Thursday June 6th, 2019 10:01:56 AM
Most of the Tide is ready to roll, but Toston has a couple ideas. His first, casting detect magic, identifies several of the items on the corpse as magical. Opening the shoulder pouch around the dead druid finds still more. A variety of potions and scrolls have not survived the century in a peat-filled watery grave, but the other items...
Decanter of Endless Water 9,000gp - previously given by the Guardian Necklace of Adaption 9,000gp- previously given by the Guardian Scimitar+1 of Warning 10,302gp- previously given by the Guardian Rhino Hide Armor +3 21,165gp Caster's Shield +4 18,153gp Rapier +2, Keen 18,320gp Amulet of Natural Armor +3 18,000gp Gem of Brightness 13,000gp Elemental Gem(Fire) 2,250gp 1 Diamond 5,000gp Assorted Gems, Jewelry, and Coin 1,564gp
All heroes get 18,000xp for the Culverwood, Weirds, and Guardian!
Wilford Grimly (HP:51/51; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 20) Thursday June 6th, 2019 12:03:33 PM
"I really need some melee weapons. I wouldn't mind picking up the Scimitar+1 of Warning.. if possible... and even that amulet of natural armor. My neck has been empty for too long. I could then arm myself with some of the daggers in my cloak." He opened his cloak revealing a nice collection of daggers. "They have been here since I first started adventuring with Toston. I remember that priest. He was quite the drunkard. Hate to see something happen to him."
Subbing for Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:27) Thursday June 6th, 2019 12:20:59 PM
"Quite the collection of goods," Hmerrin says as he picks up the Gem of Brightness and of Fire. "Sounds like we have quite the commision to figure that out," he says to Toston.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 56/67; AC:31/20/27 - CMD 26/36 vs grapple Thursday June 6th, 2019 9:32:58 PM
Toston says, "I'm not sure if I could use any of the items we found. I don't wear armor, use shields or use scimitars. I have my own natural armor and I think the necklace would boost this but I'm sure someone else in our party could put the item to better use. Wil or Sarge, any thoughts on speaking with the dead druid? If you don't have the speaks with dead spell prepared do one of you at least have gentle repose so we could perserve the druid another day till you guys can prepare speaks with dead? I mean I don't know what questions we should ask but aren't you guys at least curious about what things were like so long ago?"
Sarge (Kathy) Thursday June 6th, 2019 11:33:12 PM
"Kid, I'm 180 years old," Sarge tells Toston with a little laugh. "You want to know what things were like long ago, just ask. Anyway, I don't have a Gentle Repose or a Speak with Dead prepared."
She looks over the loot. "A lot of interesting toys, but I don't know if they're worth the cost of 'em. We might want to hang onto that Elemental Gem. A fire elemental could come in handy at some point."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 7/9) Friday June 7th, 2019 4:49:57 AM
"The amulet might save me a spell now and then but I don't have a pressing claim to it. I do use a scimitar and that could be useful for one of us to have, but I've rarely used my own."
Gaffer peers over the fallen druid to see if he might recognise anything about them, what circle they are associated with or similar.
Tying Loose Threads (DM SteveK) Friday June 7th, 2019 11:02:02 AM
(DM Post for Desdichado). The paladin considers the vision, mulling it over before giving an opinion. He collects the magic items not claimed to carry back to Dirt City, and waits for the Tide to go out... of the Culverwood.
There is talk of the treasure and perhaps talking to the century dead druid. Sarge says she neither has the spell nor the need: she remembers a hundred years ago!
The Guardian has disappeared into the waters, the magical and wealth-related goods presumably picked up and stored if not claimed for immediate use, and the path is open to return to the Bight of Izen.
Wilford Grimly (HP:51/51; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 20) Friday June 7th, 2019 7:26:02 PM
Wil waits for the others for a moment then begins toward the light like a moth to a flame.
Subbing for Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:27) Friday June 7th, 2019 7:29:10 PM
Hmerrin follows but wonders about Wilford's sanity as he follows the light like a weirdo.
Sarge (Kathy) Friday June 7th, 2019 11:37:30 PM
"C'mon, let's get out of here." Sarge begins heading out of the Culverwood, and back toward the Bight.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Sunday June 9th, 2019 3:13:57 PM
Desdichado steps up to the portal was well, walking with the others. "That may be the first fey I've met that wasn't completely annoying. Hmm...Gaffer - you said she was a water elemental - do those count as fey, I never can remember?"
"When we get back to camp, maybe we should talk about that vision and what it could mean."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 56/67; AC:31/20/27 - CMD 26/36 vs grapple Sunday June 9th, 2019 11:40:48 PM
Toston says, "Obviously it means trouble for Dirt City and our friends who live there. Presumably in this possible future we are all dead considering they got Tombo"
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 85/85 AC:21(25)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 7/9) Monday June 10th, 2019 4:19:15 AM
"I believe Elementals are their own beings, seperate to Fey, though I am not always clear."
Gaffer stretches his arms and allows his bones to crack before relaxing his shoulders.
"I thought that was the future without us in Dirt City at all... either way, let us get home." He adds with a smile, "I believe some of us have matters to attend to."
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