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A Passage to Cthonia

DM Kathy
Thursday April 2nd, 2020 2:17:01 PM
Murphy talks to the animals to get their preferences. Mowa wants to come with you. She is tired of this valley, tired of this stupid town, tired of captivity. She wants to leave as soon as possible.

You talk to the ocelots. They do have names, and you have known them for some time. Your DM was hoping to slip by without thinking of the actual names, but alas. The girl is Nia; the boy is Lio. They decide they'd rather spend a bit more time here with their family, then have you teleport them once you've found a suitable place for them.

Succotash rejoins the group, knowing that he has at least made a start on mending fences with his father.

Bliss is eager to depart; Kezzem is as witty as ever. Tali prepares and casts her traveling spells.

Pressi feels that going overland is your best course, and nobody else seems to feel strongly about it, so you leave the Valley by the seldom-used North Road, heading into the Scab. Mowa the lioness paces by your side; the ocelot siblings remain in Humble's Ford. It is still winter, and you have set off early in the day, so a silvery frost clings to every bush, tree, and rock you pass. It is beautiful. And also cold.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32 HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Thursday April 2nd, 2020 2:39:13 PM
"Brrr, it's chilly out," says Kezzem. He casts Endure Elements on himself and on Rumpus.

"So anyway, I'm thinking of calling this dagger Ice and this one Fire. I'm even working on a Song about them. I call it...a Melody of Frost and Flame."

[DM edited header to remove an extra link tag.]

Succotash (Jeremy)
Thursday April 2nd, 2020 6:55:46 PM
Succotash casts endure elements on Valerie, as she is cold blooded, but stays relatively comfortable in his winter clothing. He is glad he went home, and is looking forward to spending time in Merrydale again soon. Maybe he’ll take some of his friends along next time, maybe if his dad sees how amazing his fellow Swords are, he may learn to understand his life choice. He is excited to be back on the road, this time heading to places he has never been before, and he is almost giddy at the thought of seeing new things and places.

Subbing for Bliss (Jeremy)
Thursday April 2nd, 2020 6:58:34 PM
Bliss turns himself into a cat and trots alongside his friends, while Mookie flies overhead.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25, HP 96/111, CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31 with same), HP 85, CMD 29
Thursday April 2nd, 2020 9:50:37 PM
Pressi gives Murphy's hand a squeeze as they see the ocelots off.

For the most part, Pressi alternates between riding on her broom and riding on Harper. The jungle cat somewhat remains standoffish to the ocelots but remains closeby.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25 (30 with rituals), HP 111, CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31 with same), HP 85, CMD 29
Thursday April 2nd, 2020 9:53:35 PM
Header fix

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Druid halfling - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132
Friday April 3rd, 2020 1:45:32 AM

Murphy happily returns Pressi's squeeze of the hand. It has been pleasant working together with her in training ocelots Lio and Nia. And he has enjoyed Harper's studied indifference.

Murphy waits for Succotash to pray a blessing over their expedition, and also has requested that Sarabella Lovesong see them off in the morning with a prayer - or to send another to do so, should she not feel up to it. Hazel and Alouryn surely will be there to wave goodbye, and like as not promise to continue watching over the Sanctuary of Humble's Sword and the various projects underway.

It had been mentioned a while back that Murphy would enlist his sister, Leska Rose, a druid, to help with the menagerie and care of the animals over the winter. She does come to help, but can be there usually 4-5 days at a time, followed by 4-10 days off - she has occasional business in Angel Springs and elsewhere. But good care of the animals, and helping the staff better to understand their needs and care? Absolutely.

Perhaps predictably, Murphy shows up with a cart. Some folded tents, tarps, poles and blankets are visible, along with a chest along one side and a barrel along the other. "Right, if we need to abandon it along the way, we do. But sometimes if someone is hurt, or tired, they can ride in the cart. Besides, cats like to sleep most of the day. Anyone want to carry her, or argue with Mowa? Quick! Now is your chance to talk me out of it." Without really waiting for anyone to object, the towhead sends a wave through the leather reins and says, "Nutmeg, Sugar, giddup!"

Subbing for Bliss (Jeremy)
Friday April 3rd, 2020 5:25:27 AM
At Murphy's mention of cat's liking to sleep a lot, Cat-Bliss jumps into the back of the cart, curls up and takes a nap.

Succotash (Jeremy)
Friday April 3rd, 2020 5:34:39 AM
At Murphy's request, Succotash, from his saddle on Valerie, offers up this prayer:

"God's of the Wold I call upon you all asking for your guidance, and protection, as we depart for places unknown for us. We are sure to find trouble along the way, but I ask that you would guide and protect us in combat, or any other obstacle we may find along the way. We seek nothing but to right wrongs, stop evil, and protect the innocent, so any help you can offer is greatly appreciated. Thank-You for the gifts we have received, and will receive in the future"

Hobie (Nick T) HP 126/126 AC 32 Touch 18 Flat 27 CMD 33 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells
Friday April 3rd, 2020 1:34:29 PM
Hobie is happy to follow Pressi overland. He will handle the cold so long as it is only uncomfortable, but if it gets cold to the point of pain, he'll use his wand of Endure Elements

DM Kathy
Friday April 3rd, 2020 3:37:51 PM
Murphy has brought a cart and--horses?mules?--anyway, something to pull it. He explains it will be a good place for Mowa to nap as you travel. Mowa looks skeptical.

Succotash says a prayer, and several adventurers resort to an Endure Elements for the cold. Mowa does not sleep in the wagon that first day, but Harper and cat-Bliss are more than happy to take her place.

The first day is cold, but bearable--however, it gets colder as you travel. More and more of you need Endure Elements to feel comfortable. Mowa doesn't like it at all. You had warned her about the cold, but experiencing it is something else. She is clearly unhappy, and makes her frustration known with growls and little nips.

[There was some confusion about this; only Mowa is with you. The ocelots stayed behind; you will get them when you've found a place for them.]

You travel for several cold, but uneventful, days. When it snows, Mowa finally consents to ride in the cart.

Tali (Jon-Paul) - - AC 32 | CMB 5 | CMD 27 | HP 101/101
Friday April 3rd, 2020 3:46:01 PM
A Passage to Cthonia

Tali once again leave Rayya behind to watch their collective belongs, and to occasionally play with the new arrivals.

Tali having packed all her needed gear in her haversack / pants o' plenty, heads out with the group. She hopes her newly acquired gear helps her on this journey.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32 HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Saturday April 4th, 2020 12:41:18 AM
"Maybe you could have Murphey carry her in his portable hole," suggests Kezzem to Tali.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Druid halfling - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132
Sunday April 5th, 2020 12:22:50 AM

One thing I neglected to mention is that Murphy also is bringing along his riding dog. Seeing the prevalence of felines in the back of the cart, when he gets tired, Skipper will sometimes jump up on the seat next to Murphy up front in the cart. But he has pretty good endurance, so does not mind spending a fair bit of time trotting along with the group, often checking out the smells and curiosities he spots along the path.

On the first day out, Murphy mentioned to the group, "These my ponies Nutmeg and Sugar have provided transportation to the group since the Humble's Sword took its first trip outside of the town, along with Pippa, who is now Hobie's valiant mare." [See Murphy post October 10, 2013, and Murphy's and Hobie's posts of November 10th, 2017] "She once was under a tree that got fireballed by a bad goblin named Ringrot, yet she managed to run off - took half a night to catch up to her. Tough, resiliant is she! And definitely improved under Hobie's care." A few days later, he added this thought. "This cart can be pulled by only one pony, and the way the harness is set up, it's easy to change from a two-pony cart to a one-pony cart. But they seem to love pulling together."

"I went to the Catacombs," Murphy replies to Kezzem's suggestion to Tali about where to quarter Rayya. "There's not as much room in the portable hole as there was last month. Besides, I thought I have heard of a mage who had a pouch or satchel or something that allowed him to carry his familiar safely, and the critter could eat and sleep and breathe and all inside, until he needed to pull it out. Maybe Tali can get one of those, or have someone make one. Maybe Mookie might know something about that - he used to work in the Catacombs."

A couple days out, he asks Mowa if she would like for him to make her a warm wrap. As she seemed to snarl at the initial suggestion, he does not mention the notion again until the snow starts to fall, though he does place winter blankets about the back of the cart so the cats get used to them. "About that wrap - I use some of these winter blankets here." The ones he speaks of are sized for humans, not halflings. "If you'd like, I'll start to sew one for you." If she is game for the idea, he has someone else sit in the driver's seat of the cart for a while as he begins to fashion a wrap for Mowa. He has needles and thread. He goes to work. He sings some of the songs he grew up on, being from a family of singers, musicians and storytellers.

"Say, on a trip like this, sometimes reading a good book can fill the hours with more than beautiful scenery. I've got a copy of my journals of Humble's Sword - from Day One until a few days ago. Was able to fill in what I missed when I was whisked away to explore the planes by talking with each of you all - and Tiana, and some of the townsfolk. If anyone wants to read the story of who we have been, and how we got to where we are now - just ask, and I'll lend you one of the volumes. I'm working on volume 4 these days." [If anyone wants to simulate reading the journals, well, go all the way back in the Archives to the start, and get to reading!]
------
To DM Kathy: Murphy's ponies and dogs are shown in his CS toward the bottom of the Equipment tab.

Subbing for Bliss (Jeremy)
Monday April 6th, 2020 10:26:14 AM
Cat-Bliss snuggles in Mowa, enjoying her extra body heat.

Succotash (Jeremy) d20+22=28 ; d20+9=26 ;
Monday April 6th, 2020 10:29:45 AM
Succotash keeps his eyes peeled for any threats or what not (perception 28), while Valerie keeps her nose to the wind (perception 26)

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25 (30 with rituals), HP 111, CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31 with same), HP 85, CMD 29
Monday April 6th, 2020 1:14:36 PM
To Murphy's offer to get in a good book, Pressi reminds him that she's waiting for the movie.

More seriously, Press continues to help take care of the animals, scout the area, and otherwise watch the scenery. She also uses occasional divinations like find the path or her clairvoyance ability.

DM Kathy
Monday April 6th, 2020 2:04:15 PM
Mowa scorns the offer of any kind of warm wrap, though she magnanimously allows the other animals to cuddle up to her. If they want.

The snow day is the worst, and coldest day you face. Shortly afterward, you round the isthmus and begin descending toward Cthonia. The temperature warms noticeably day by day. Soon, you pack away your winter things.

A little over a week after you left Crescent Valley, you find yourself camped on a ridge overlooking the lush, verdant growth of Cthonia. You will enter the jungle tomorrow.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32 HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Monday April 6th, 2020 3:29:40 PM
Kezzem and Rumpus are fine with the temperatures, thanks to the magic of Endure Elements.

"If any body else wants to keep toasty warm, just say the word," offers Kezzem. "I can help two more of you endure these elements."

"Cthonia? I don't like the sound of this place. Not enough vowels in the first part of the name. That is never a good sign."

Hobie (Nick T) HP 126/126 AC 32 Touch 18 Flat 27 CMD 33 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells
Monday April 6th, 2020 4:56:25 PM
Hobie packs his winter gear away in his handy haversack where he can get it should the need arise again. He dresses himself in light, but long sleeved clothing to protect against bugs in the approaching jungle.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Druid halfling - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132 d20+37=47 ;
Tuesday April 7th, 2020 11:16:36 AM

"What is a moo-vee?" Murphy inquires of Pressi. Her occasional use of terms totally outside of his frame of reference often leaves him puzzled. If only he had traveled to all the places she had in her youth, so many more things might he know. But that's part of why he loves her. She expands his world. Or, at least, tries to.

He talks with Mowa as they look down upon the jungle. "Have you lived in a jungle full of plants as we see below, or more in grassy plains?" he asks her. He thinks about how he might want to change up his spells in memory to adapt to the terrain they are about to enter.

He observes the layout of the terrain before them, using the advantage of the height they enjoy to mentally catalog landmarks, the shape of the terrain, and the distance he can see. "I'll be back in about fifteen minutes. Go ahead and move ahead. I want to take a look from a higher place." He moves away from others, shape changes into a huge air elemental, and shoots up and over the area below. He goes about seven miles out, then takes a broad loop around and back to whatever short distance the group may have traveled during his brief jaunt.

He reports on what he has seen.
==============
Perception: 47 - during overflight of jungle

[It will likely take a day or two to make the changes on his CS - super busy]

Succotash (Jeremy) d20+22=42 ; d20+9=22 ;
Tuesday April 7th, 2020 1:12:40 PM
As the temps start going up, Succotash packs away his cold weather clothes, putting them in his handy haversack. Valerie is almost giddy, if a dinosaur can be giddy at being in the jungle. They both keep their senses open while traveling, just in case something means them harm.

Succotash perception 42
Valerie perception 22

Subbing for Bliss (Jeremy)
Tuesday April 7th, 2020 1:14:17 PM
As the temps go up, Cat-Bliss decides to stretch his legs, and sharpens his claws on a nearby tree.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25 (30 with rituals), HP 111, CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31 with same), HP 85, CMD 29
Tuesday April 7th, 2020 2:06:11 PM
"Uh uh," Pressi teased Murphy. "First you tell me what is this reading while traveling, as if reading materials were portable and easily mass produced for a highly literate population. Why, it's almost like moo-vies are just as likely to exist in this period as a compact notebook with a pen."

You can actually hear her wink.

(And that is why policing references is a sucker's game.)

Before they enter the jungle, Pressi flies overhead of the entrance.

Afterwards, she helps the group prepare camp.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Druid halfling - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132
Tuesday April 7th, 2020 3:04:55 PM
Now Murphy is quite perplexed. "Mass-produced? Three to four copies of our journals exist. I've written the original and a copy. My brother has made two copies - one for the WLA, and one kept at my family's place." He pulls out penk and ink. "You see me writing frequently with these - almost every night as we go out adventuring. And portable? Why, I port them all over the place. You are silly, Pressi, sometimes."

(I see a reversal of real life here. It is often I who tease my wife with absurd references, and she who answers seriously.)

DM Kathy
Tuesday April 7th, 2020 3:31:40 PM
As you approach the jungle, Murphy asks Mowa whether she has lived in a similar place before. She has not; the home she remembers had grassy plains. The ocelots would do well in this jungle; Mowa may need to travel all the way through to the plains on the other side.

Hobie and Succotash stash away their cold-weather gear. Cat-Bliss just enjoys the warmer weather.

Kezzem doesn't like the name "Cthonia," because the vowels are unevenly distributed. Your DM would add that, despite the name, the place is not underground, which threw her off at first.

Before you enter the jungle, Pressi and Murphy do some aerial reconnoissance. You see that the jungle foliage is very thick indeed, and that there isn't much of a road, which could be a problem for the wagon.

As you travel into the jungle, you discover that, yes, the wagon is going to be very difficult to get through. The road you've been following quickly narrows to a footpath with thick vegetation on either side. Your pace slows to a crawl as you try to ease the wagon through.

Also, it is quite warm beneath the jungle canopy. It isn't long before most of you are sweating freely. Was it only a few days ago that you were too cold?

Hobie (Nick T) HP 126/126 AC 32 Touch 18 Flat 27 CMD 33 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells
Tuesday April 7th, 2020 4:32:46 PM
As Hobie starts to sweat, he turns to his friends and asks “So are we sure we need this wagon?” Can anybody shrink it?

As they enter the jungle and move through it, Hobie has his bow at the ready and is constantly looking out for any danger that might come about.

(Ooc: we are on the ponies right?)

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Druid halfling - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132
Tuesday April 7th, 2020 8:52:05 PM

"I see a few options, maybe you all have more," says Murphy.

* Yes, Hobie, if we have someone in the group who can cast the shrink spell - it's third level, and it's one I checked into as we were discussing how to get all the wagons and such quickly from Crafter's Crossing to Humble's Ford. That could resolve the issue.
* Another idea: I can change into a hulking earth elemental, and make a road through the jungle. That would be interesting.
* Or: I put most of the stuff in the wagon in the portable hole, then, as a huge air elemental, fly the cart ahead until it's almost out of the jungle, then fly back to rejoin the party. Not that that would attract any attention.
* Or: we abandon the cart.
* Or: Disassemble it, and take the key components in the portable hole. I have most of another cart already with me.

"Other ideas?" Murphy asks. "I might be handy to have a cart later, but likely we won't die without it."[Keeping this short in case people ask him questions he can answer.]

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32 HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Tuesday April 7th, 2020 10:28:43 PM
"Oh, I know this one," says Kezzem. "A movie is like a play, Murphey, but with cows, ain't that right, Press?"

"Maybe if you took a few levels of paladin and took a celestial cart as your mount, you could summon as needed like I do Rumpus," suggests Kezzem unhelpfully.

Subbing for Bliss (Jeremy)
Wednesday April 8th, 2020 5:44:36 AM
Bliss turns back into a halfling and says if you can shrink the cart, do it, otherwise, lets just leave it here and pick it up on the way home.

Succotash (Jeremy)
Wednesday April 8th, 2020 5:49:33 AM
Succotash agrees with Bliss about the cart. As he starts to sweat, he is surprised how the weather can change so drastically from region to region.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Druid halfling - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132
Wednesday April 8th, 2020 1:28:39 PM

To speed things along, Murphy agrees. "I'll need a few minutes to transfer the contents of the wagon into the portable hole. Could use some help from those with bulging muscles. Also - no extradimensional items in the hole." So saying, he takes off Bill's Splendid Pants O' Plenty - and is wearing some light pants underneath, so no one, especially Murphy, needs blush. He removes any other such things, such as his handy haversack. He gives his ponies fodder bags so they can eat a bit. Then he opens the portable hole. A ladder can be seen right at the top of the hole. He climbs up and down a few times. The chest goes on top of a stack of chests - easily reachable without descending. He empties the barrel of most of its water, and tucks it into a free spot.

He puts his pants back on, and haversack. He marks the local vegetation - and has been keeping track of it as they went along, so figures he can find the spot again.

"All right, let's go!" Murphy says with enthusiasm and a smile. He tells his horses that the going should be easier now - placing them in the middle of the group so that the way can be slightly cleared before they have branches slapping their faces.

DM Kathy
Wednesday April 8th, 2020 2:31:46 PM
Hobie urges Murphy to shrink the cart or just ditch it, while Kezzem discusses the merits of Dial-a-Horse. [OOC: I pictured you guys on foot, but you can be on ponies if you prefer. Just let me know.]

Murphy, realizing the cart is just impractical for jungle travel, moves his items to other conveyances, mostly the portable hole, unhitches the ponies, and leaves the cart behind.

Harper, Bliss, and Mowa are therefore consigned to walking, but they don't seem to mind that much. Mowa is clearly appreciating the warmer climate, and curious about the jungle around her.

Valerie is simply beside herself with excitement. She loves the climate, and the surroundings. She can smell other dinosaurs. She can even smell other velociraptors! Succotash doesn't have a mental link with her, but her excitement is clear and it isn't hard to guess the cause.

You make better time without the cart, and soon you are deep in the jungle.

Later in the day, you come upon an unexpected sight. There is a crossroads of a kind--a meeting of two jungle paths--and set up there is a small trading booth. There is a large table, with goods on display, with neat bundles of goods off to the side, and a small tent pitched behind. Manning the table are two kobolds! They wave and call greetings as you approach.

Tali (Jon-Paul) - - AC 32 | CMB 5 | CMD 27 | HP 101/101
Wednesday April 8th, 2020 9:37:48 PM
In the Jungle...the Mighty Jungle

Tali hovers across the Woldian surface, above 3 feet. Trailing behind the group, staying on the lookout for anything.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32 HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Wednesday April 8th, 2020 10:49:14 PM
"So I was thinking...what if we developed some magic stone tablet or something that would let you summon a pony when you need one as paladins like me can do. That sure would be a great way to get a ride, and we could make a nice profit! We could call it...huver. Like hooves but spelled all foreigny."

"A shop? Here? I thought we already did the catacombs. In fact, I'm quite sure of it. I even sang a song about it."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25 (30 with rituals), HP 111, CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31 with same), HP 85, CMD 29
Wednesday April 8th, 2020 11:16:33 PM
Pressi takes some time to approach the kobolds. She takes some time to ask who they even sell to.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 126/126 AC 32 Touch 18 Flat 27 CMD 33 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells
Thursday April 9th, 2020 12:08:47 AM
To Kezzem “Magic stone tablet? How about just a scroll of ‘Mount’?”

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Druid halfling - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132 d20+37=56 ; d20+19=21 ;
Thursday April 9th, 2020 1:35:46 AM

Murphy laughs aloud at Kezzem's suggestions. "Yes, cows, definitely." "Celestial cart?!?" Good thing the druid wasn't drinking, or there would have been a spit-take.

While traveling through the jungle, Murphy gathers samples, shoots, and seeds from various flora. He especially is on the lookout for the fabled darkwood - the wood and bark are marvelous for fashioning various items, including weapons, armor, and, as his father has done, very high-quality woodwind instruments. If by now he has not found any, he does ask the kobolds if they have heard of it in these woods.

"You wouldn't happen to sell wands, now, would you? Such as a wand of shrink?

"And, by the way," he asks, nodding toward Pressi and her query, "how is it you found yourselves setting up shop in the midst of this selva?"
========
Search for darkwood: Perception: 56
Knowledge, nature: 21

Succotash (Jeremy)
Thursday April 9th, 2020 6:49:33 AM
As Valerie is getting excited, Succotash uses his speak with animals to ask her what’s up. When he hears her answer, he says to her, “This must be a homecoming of sorts for you, hopefully we won’t meet any of you crankier, and more powerful relatives”. When they spy the Kobolds, Succotash whispers to his friends, “Be careful, kobolds aren’t known for their trustworthiness”.

Subbing for Bliss (Jeremy)
Thursday April 9th, 2020 6:51:51 AM
Hearing Succotash’s warning, but not paying any attention to it, Bliss walks towards the Kobolds and says, “What’ch selling?”

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32 HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Thursday April 9th, 2020 11:39:41 AM
To Hobbie: "But not everyone can cast scrolls."

To Murphy: "Maybe a celestial mimic in the shape of a cart?"

Hobie (Nick T) HP 126/126 AC 32 Touch 18 Flat 27 CMD 33 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells
Thursday April 9th, 2020 12:44:22 PM
Hobie will be happy to peruse the Kobolds' goods.

"Hey there, whatcha'll got for sale?"

DM Kathy
Thursday April 9th, 2020 3:47:52 PM
Tali hangs back a bit, and Kezzem is still enthusiastic about his huver idea, but most of the group approaches the kobold's trading station with curiosity. Succotash warns his companions to be on their guard.

Murphy asks whether they have wands, but a glance at the merchandise reveals that they probably don't. You see clay bowls, plates and pitchers; woven mats; leather goods made from--is that crocodile? Over at the end of the table are exotic-looking weapons, and some mysterious concoctions in glass potion bottles.

Hobie and Bliss ask what the kobolds have for sale. "Many things!" one of them replies. He? Probably he. He picks up a colorfully decorated clay bowl. "Bowls for fruit or meat!" He gestures to the potion bottles, "Cures for jungle poisons. Also, jungle poisons!"

Pressi asks who they even sell to. "People," the same kobold replies. "People come through on paths, and we see them and say, buy our things!" He points down the other path. "That way Crystal Beach. Boats come there, and people come from boats."

The other kobold has been watching you carefully. When his companion is finished speaking, he says. "You have weapons." He points to Tali. "And that one flies. Maybe you are heroes?" It's hard to read kobold expressions, but the tone of his last question sounded hopeful.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 126/126 AC 32 Touch 18 Flat 27 CMD 33 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells
Thursday April 9th, 2020 4:44:32 PM
“We are in fact heroes. Pound for pound, the greatest heroes in all the Wold! Are you in need of Heroes?”

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Druid halfling - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132
Thursday April 9th, 2020 7:35:11 PM

Murphy was going to say, "That's a question for Bliss to answer." But, in light of what Hobie reported, Murphy instead says. "Yes, and we are very humble, too. Very humble. How might we help you?"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 20 HP 97/97 Valerie AC 31/15/26 CMD 27 HP 93/93 Spells
Friday April 10th, 2020 5:53:23 AM
Not letting his guard, Succotash says, "We are the heroes known as Humble's Sword, perhaps you've heard of us, we did slay a dragon at the Battle of the Sargrass Plains after all?" He than skeptically asks, "What can we do for you?"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25 (30 with rituals), HP 111, CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31 with same), HP 85, CMD 29
Friday April 10th, 2020 2:35:30 PM
As Succotash declares them heroes, Pressi makes a "kind of" hand motion. "Well... we often mean well."

When she finds out that there is a beach nearby, she makes her displeasure of being trapped in these close quarters well known.

She can barely resist the bowls and mats - the more kitsch the better - but she eventually turns her eyes towards the exotic weapons and potions, casting detect magic, detect poison and read magic (from tatoo) upon them. "Anything in particular you would recommend to a couple of jungle travelers?"

DM Kathy
Friday April 10th, 2020 3:17:07 PM
[I've been meaning to include this skill check for two days now!]

Knowledge: Local DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {These appear to be K’tthhykk kobolds, a peaceful tribe that has recently increased its efforts to trade with the outside world.}

Some of you are reluctant to speak up, but Hobie, Murphy, and Succotash confirm that you are, indeed heroes!

"And they are small, like kobolds!" the kobold says to his companion.

"Yes," the first kobold replies. He turns to you. "Our village has need of brave people. You go to our village? Talk to Chief? And Auntie?"

Pressi, meanwhile, is examining the goods for sale. You have come to the right place for "primitive kitsch;" everything is decorated in bright, colorful patterns. In particular, a small jug with blue and green lizards all over it catches your attention. The weapons are also decorated. You see blowguns, darts, bolas, and spears. Most seem to be sized for Big Folk; the kobolds clearly created them just for trade. A few of the potion bottles do detect as poison. You ask if there's anything in particular they recommend, and of course, they recommend all of it.

Bliss | CatBliss HP182/182 AC31 | Mookie HP76/76 AC39 | Cayzle d20-1=10 ;
Friday April 10th, 2020 7:09:01 PM

Bliss is excited at the shopping opportunity. "These bowls look perfect for cats to drink milk from." He buys two of the prettiest bowls for sure.

He asks if they have any bug ointment. "These flies and midges are super annoying." he says.

When he hears that they have need of heroes, he is glad to say he thinks the group should go visit Auntie and the Chief. He tries to figure out if they are honest or not ...

Untrained Sense Motive 10. "They seem on the up and up," he says.

"What's your take, Brother Succotash? Sir Kezzem?"

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32 HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74 d20+21=30 ;
Saturday April 11th, 2020 1:13:43 AM
"Yes, we are small like kobolds," says Kezzem. "And as Murphey has said, we are quite humble. Especially our swords. They almost never talk and brag about how good they are slashing things. Not like my fancy daggers. They never shut-up about how good they are at stabbing!"

Kezzem will look over the kobolds. (Detecting Evil). He also puts his considerable lie detection skills to use. (Sense Motive 30).

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Druid halfling - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132 d20+13=28 ; d20+26=37 ;
Sunday April 12th, 2020 4:13:29 AM

"Please tell me what jungle poisons you have, their nature and effects," Murphy requests. "What do they do, what plants or animals or other things do they come from?

"And what cures have you for jungle poison? How are the cures made? If you answer these questions fully, I would be willing to purchase some of each item - both poisons and cures."

To encourage them further, he asks, "Are you kin to the K’tthhykk kobolds? I've heard good things about them."

If this question pleases them, and he learns they actually are members of that tribe, he expresses delight to actually meet them. He introduces the members of the group to them, and requests their names.

"Now, tell us of the Chief and Auntie. Are they nearby?"

Murphy does nudge them back to answering his queries about the poisons and antidotes should they get too distracted by the other line of questioning.

1. Detail poisons and antidote information
2. What about K'tthhykk kobolds?
3. Tell us about Chief and Auntie

============
Knowledge: Local: 28/20
Sense Motive: 37 [Most folks have layers of motives. Murphy works to see how many layers he may perceive from the kobolds.]

Tali (Jon-Paul) - - AC 32 | CMB 5 | CMD 27 | HP 101/101
Sunday April 12th, 2020 1:41:42 PM
Kobolds?!

Tali having left Rayya at home, hovers along sporting her new gear.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 20 HP 97/97 Valerie AC 31/15/26 CMD 27 HP 93/93 Spells d20+13=21 ;
Monday April 13th, 2020 5:55:44 AM
Sense motive 21 (To determine if the kobolds have anything up their sleeves)

If Succotash senses that the kobolds are legit, he says, "I see no reason to doubt these fine descendants of dragons, if they need a band of heroes, well, that would be who we are!"

If Succotash suspects something, he says, "I'm not sure I trust these guys, but I think we should use caution and investigate none the less.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25 (30 with rituals), HP 111, CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31 with same), HP 85, CMD 29
Monday April 13th, 2020 1:22:29 PM
Pressi inevitably buys the big jug. She considers the weapons but not even she knows how to use any of them.

DM Kathy
Monday April 13th, 2020 1:33:00 PM
Bliss thinks the bowls are just right for cats! You find two especially pretty ones; one with a pattern of leaves in various shades of green, and another with an abstract pattern in your favorite colors. Each bowl costs a gold piece. You ask about bug repellent, and one of the kobolds shows you a small clay jar of ointment. It smells awful, but the kobolds assure you it keeps bugs away. They want 5 silver pieces for it.

Kezzem finds that the kobolds do not detect as evil. He senses they are being honest. Likewise, Succotash can tell that they have nothing up their sleeves. They don't even have sleeves!

Murphy asks whether the kobolds are kin to the K’tthhykk. "Yes!" one of them says. "We are K’tthhykk. That is our tribe!" They both seem pleased that you have heard of them. The one who first spoke to you is called Ka; the other is Khyshk.

You ask them about the poison, and they describe what it does. They decline to list all of the ingredients, saying it is a tribal secret. From their description, however, you are pretty confident that it is an herbal concoction that works like Drow poison. They ask 90 gold for it. They also describe the antidote. Again, they don't list all the ingredients, but you think its effect is similar to that of antitoxin. They ask 60 gold for it.

"Our chief is Sskurhe," Ka says. "He is a good chief. Wise and strong. Auntie is--" he and Khyshk exchange helpless shrugs. "Auntie is Auntie. Very old kobold. Everyone has much respect for Auntie."

"Our village is called Sskthk," Khyshk adds. "It is one day journey from here."

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32 HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Monday April 13th, 2020 2:16:16 PM
"Ack, Bliss! I don't know about bugs, but that will certainly keep halflings away."

To the kobolds he says, "Your village is Ssk...ssk...Do you happen to be selling any letters here? I'd like to by a vowel!"

Hobie (Nick T) HP 126/126 AC 32 Touch 18 Flat 27 CMD 33 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells
Monday April 13th, 2020 3:16:20 PM
(Are we allowed to use poisons? I know a lot of GMs say it’s evil to use poison. If it’s okay for us...)

Hobie speaks up “I’d like to buy a couple doses of the poison, as well as a couple doses of the antidote. You never know when it could come in handy”

Bliss | CatBliss HP182/182 AC31 | Mookie HP76/76 AC39 | Cayzle
Monday April 13th, 2020 8:43:37 PM

Bliss gives 5 gold for two Cat Bowls and 6 jars of Bug Unguent. [OOC: PC Sheet updated]

Bliss laughs out loud [as does his player] when Kezzem asks to buy a vowel!

"Good one, Sir Kezzem," Bliss declares. "No offense, good kobolds! Just that your language is a jaw breaker for us!"

After the shopping is done, Bliss changes into a cat for the trip to the kobold village.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Druid halfling - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132 d20+14=31 ;
Monday April 13th, 2020 11:52:07 PM

"I'll take three of the poisons, and four of the antitoxins, and three of the bug stuff," Murphy says. "If you have that many." Using his alchemical skills, he plans later to study them, and see whether he can figure out their concoction. He says, I know that comes to five hundred eleven gold and 5 silver - but can we call it a fair quantity discount to pay 500 even?" He won't haggle overmuch. If they insist on the full face value, he'll cover it. If they agree to the 500, then, nice. He figures they likely are used to haggling, and his is a gentle one.

As it seems the party is fine with traveling to the village, he is, as well. He harvests little bits of this and that along the way, asks questions about the flora and fauna, and asks how the tribe has been faring of late. "Trading can help a people to survive and thrive." He asks if they can start teaching him some kobold greetings, and respectful ways of addressing leaders. [Linguistics: 31]

"With us traveling for a day - during the evening, what attacks from creatures or others might we expect? How friendly is the plant life hereabouts?" He wants to prepare for potential adversarial encounters, to help protect his friends and the kobolds.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Druid halfling - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132
Tuesday April 14th, 2020 2:20:57 AM

Along the way, he searches for any orchids or exotic flowers. If he finds something suitable, he first carefully checks it and its environs. Then, if it looks safe to do so, he cuts the stem with his +1 scimitar, and offers the blossom to Pressi.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 20 HP 97/97 Valerie AC 31/15/26 CMD 27 HP 93/93 Spells
Tuesday April 14th, 2020 5:35:33 AM
In draconic, Succotash says, "Lead us to your village, good decedents of dragons, we would be happy to help, if we are capable of doing that which your people require". Turning to Bliss, Succotash giggles and says, "Kobolds usually speak draconic, and I don't seem to have trouble with that language".

DM Kathy
Tuesday April 14th, 2020 2:03:58 PM
Pressi's jug is 2 gold pieces.

Kezzem wants to buy a vowel, but alas, none are for sale.

Bliss buys his bowls and some bug repellent.

Hobie buys some poison and some antitoxin. [OOC: For this DM, poison is not inherently evil; it depends on how it's used. Drow poison in particular cannot kill; it only renders the target unconscious. A future DM, of course, may disagree with this, so it's worth checking if the poison is still on your character sheet at that point.]

Murphy buys some poison, some antitoxin, and some bug ointment. You haggle with the kobolds, who seem to enjoy it, and wind up paying 504 gold.

Succotash speaks to the kobolds in draconic. "You speak the language of dragons!" Ka replies in the same language. "We cannot come with you; we must stay here for trade."

In Common, he adds, "But we will tell you how to get there." He gives you careful directions for finding the village. He also gives you a wooden disk, colorfully painted with tribal designs. "This token will tell Chief and Auntie that you spoke with us," he explains. "Show this when you get to the village."

You wrap up your business with the kobolds and leave the little trading booth. As you travel, Murphy keeps an eye out for flowers. Unfortunately, it is still winter-time, even here in the jungle. It's the wrong time of year for flowers, and you don't see any.

You now have several tasks. You need to find a suitable territory for the ocelot siblings, someplace where there are no ocelots already claiming the territory. You need to find a place for Mowa, probably on the plains. You need to stop off at the kobold village. You can complete these tasks in any order. However, there didn't seem to be a lot of urgency attached to the kobolds' request, and Mowa has been growing impatient.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32 HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Tuesday April 14th, 2020 7:24:52 PM
"Well, since you guys are out of vowels, do you have any mushrooms then?" asks Kezzem. "If not, we could hook you up with some. I'm an aspiring mushroomer, don't you know."

Bliss | CatBliss HP182/182 AC31 | Mookie HP76/76 AC39 | Cayzle
Tuesday April 14th, 2020 7:42:35 PM

Changing back into a halfling, Bliss holds out his hand.

"Thank you," says Bliss as he takes the wooden token.

He links arms with Kezzem and helps the would-be mushroom merchant to get ambling on. "Never mind him," Bliss tells the kobolds. "He's silly."

Mookie rolls his eyes.

"Come on everybody, we have to get a move on to Koboldtown." Bliss can't say the name of the place either, so he isn't even trying.

If he notices the big cat's restlessness, he asks the party druid to Wild-Empathy her. "Mister Murphy, explain to Mama Lion that the plains are far away, but we'll get there, we promise!"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25 (30 with rituals), HP 111, CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31 with same), HP 85, CMD 29
Tuesday April 14th, 2020 8:45:51 PM
Pressi pays the money.

“Ok well I’m sure we can take a look at your village after we drop the animals off.”

Hobie (Nick T) HP 126/126 AC 32 Touch 18 Flat 27 CMD 33 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells
Wednesday April 15th, 2020 12:54:43 AM
Hobie will take the time to apply one of the doses of poison to a javelin and place it back in his efficient quiver. He will follow the lead of his friends who know more about animals.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Druid halfling - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132 d20+37=55 ; d20+19=37 ;
Wednesday April 15th, 2020 1:39:36 AM

Geography lesson
"According to the map that Bliss was able to obtain, we've gone through the Scab, are now in the jungles of Cthonia, wherein there also are some plateaus. Beyond that, desert. And further on, plains. Plains should be suitable for Mowa. I would guess we are still a few weeks out from them at our current rate of travel."

Ocelot home area? And other animal things
Before departing from Ka and Khyshk, he asks them, "Have you seen ocelots here in the jungle? I ask because we have a young adult pair who need a new home. If there are none too close nearby, this may be a good place for them to come. Here, I'll show you what they look like. Don't be afraid, I am a druid, and will wildshape so you can see what they look like." He does so, and moves about a bit as the ocelot family are wont to - a bit of frisking, a bit of pretend stalking. He then speaks in common. "They can't talk like this, though." He changes back to halfling. "So, have you seen any hereabouts? Ocelot cats?"

He considers whether to plow ahead toward the plains or to take the slight zig towards the kobold village. "What say, as we're close enough now - and who knows what may happen in the interim? - that we stop by Sskthk, meet Chief Sskurhe and Auntie, and learn what their need may be. We may let them know of our other commitments - perhaps accede to their request after the animals are found new homes as promised. Perhaps, if there are not too many other ocelots nearby, they could serve as guardians of the beautiful felines."

Pressi seems inclined to bypass the village for now. He asks if she'll reconsider. "It's not impossible they might help us with one part of our quest. It may be on our return that, if we not meet them now, other exigencies may arise that lead us to forget this opportunity all together."

Heeding Bliss's urging, he communicates with Mowa. "We will see if this be a good place for Nia and Lio. If it is, then after this we can find a good place for you. We have traveled almost halfway to where the plains lie. Be patient. We aim to get you there." He asks her how she is doing; whether she understands what he has told her; and how old she was when the menagerie took her up.

"Tali. You should bring Rayya with you next time. Let's figure out how to get you a good familiar carrier to keep her safe."

Flora
"Can't find any flowers in here. We are too far from the sun now it's winter," the druid comments. Still, he observes and learns what he can about the local plant life. He also keeps his eyes peeled if things hang down from above that might conceal serpents or the like.
=========
Perception: 55 - on alert for animal attacks
Knowledge: Nature: 37

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 20 HP 97/97 Valerie AC 31/15/26 CMD 27 HP 93/93 Spells
Wednesday April 15th, 2020 5:46:52 AM
Succotash is torn, on the one hand he wants to fulfill his promise to Mowa, and on the other hand they have a village of goodly kobolds, who need their help. Finally he uses his speak with animals spell like ability to ask Mowa whether or not she is willing to wait until the kobold adventure is over, and if not he offers to use greater teleport to transport her there, but warns her if he does that, he will just be dropping her off and leaving, forcing her to figure things out for herself.

DM Kathy
Wednesday April 15th, 2020 1:28:58 PM
Kezzem asks about mushrooms, but the kobolds are not selling food.

Bliss accepts the wooden token and urges the group to head for the kobolds' village.

Pressi pays for her items and recommends dropping the animals off first. Hobie applies the Drow poison to one of his javelins, but has no opinion on the animals.

Murphy asks the kobolds about ocelots. They have seen ocelots, and know what they look like, so there are some in the general area. It's unclear, however, whether there might be territory available for more ocelots; the kobolds are not druids and they don't pay that close of attention.

Murphy and Succotash speak with Mowa, who reluctantly agrees to come along to the kobold village. She thinks she was about two years old when she was originally captured, but it's hard to know for sure. She isn't quite so stressed now that she is freely walking alongside you rather than in a cage, so you've got that going for you. On the other hand, her presence may cause stress in others who encounter you.

Your business concluded, you leave the kobolds and head into the jungle.

Bliss | CatBliss HP182/182 AC31 | Mookie HP76/76 AC39 | Cayzle
Wednesday April 15th, 2020 7:09:20 PM

On the way through the jungle, Bliss changes into a cat and plays with Mowa. He walks next to her, pounces on her tail, hunts mice and deer with her.

Mookie flies above, telepathically warning of any obvious threats and directing Bliss to the nearest prey.

"At least it keeps him out of my hair," he says, as the group travels toward Koboldtown.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32 HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Wednesday April 15th, 2020 11:37:24 PM
"These kobolds need a new business plan," says Kezzem. "Everything I was looking for was out of stock! That's some poor retail planning there."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Druid halfling - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132
Thursday April 16th, 2020 4:17:15 AM

"I'm thinking we should set up obstacle courses for the children," Murphy says out of the blue to Pressi. "Kezzem, Tali, what would be some good elements to include in an obstacle course for halfling children?"

He adds, "I'm thinking to help teach them things. And reward them. And make them strong. What do you think, Succotash?"

"Ooh - look at these purple vines, the way they intertwine. Hobie, have you ever thought of trying a corkscrew arrow?"

He is happy Bliss is entertaining Mowa. He checks from time to time on Sugar, Nutmeg, and Skipper.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 20 HP 97/97 Valerie AC 31/15/26 CMD 27 HP 93/93 Spells
Thursday April 16th, 2020 6:45:26 AM
As they are walking through the jungle, A song comes to Succotash and he begins singing:

Welcome to the Jungle,
We’ve got fun and games,

Turning to Murphy he says, ”Speaking of fun and games, I love the obstacle course idea, we could call it a Jungle Gym!”

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32 HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Thursday April 16th, 2020 11:35:22 AM
"Stop that, Murphey!" protests Kezzem. "Random non sequiturs are totally my thing! As are bad puns, Soccotash. You guys are totally cramping my style!"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25 (30 with rituals), HP 111, CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31 with same), HP 85, CMD 29
Thursday April 16th, 2020 11:42:58 AM
Pressi stares at Murphy's rambling. "You have GOT to stop hanging out with ocelots."

To Kezzem, "I don't think any of us can claim a monopoly on bad puns."

(Sorry about the somewhat short posts. I think I'm going to try morning posting.)

Sensing that the consensus has been to bring the creatures to a town, "I think we've got the obstacle course set up."

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